bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Local Atomic Structures of Liquid CO at 3.6 GPa and Polymerized CO at 0 to 30 GPa from High‐Pressure Pair Distribution Function Analysis
Authors: Rademacher Nadine , Bayarjargal Lkhamsuren , Morgenroth Wolfgang , Winkler Björn , Ciezak‐Jenkins Jennifer , Batyrev Iskander G. , Milman Victor
Published: July 2014

The local atomic structures of liquid and polymerized CO and its decomposition products were analyzed at pressures up to 30 GPa in diamond anvil cells by X‐ray diffraction, pair distribution function (PDF) analysis, single‐crystal diffraction, and Raman spectroscopy. The structural models were obtained by density functional calculations. Analysis of the PDF of a liquid CO‐rich phase revealed that the local structure has a pronounced short‐range order. The PDFs of polymerized amorphous CO at several pressures revealed the compression of the molecular structure; covalent bond lengths did not change significantly with pressure. Experimental PDFs could be reproduced with simulations from DFT‐optimized structural models. Likely structural features of polymerized CO are thus 4‐ to 6‐membered rings (lactones, cyclic ethers, and rings decorated with carbonyl groups) and long bent chains with carbonyl groups and bridging atoms. Laser heating polymerized CO at pressures of 7 to 9 GPa and 20 GPa resulted in the formation of CO2.
Reactivity of an Intramolecular Fluorophosphonium Fluoroborate
Authors: Ekkert Olga , Caputo Christopher B. , Pranckevicius Conor , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Kehr Gerald , Erker Gerhard , Stephan Douglas W.
Published: July 2014

The reactions of the intramolecular frustrated Lewis pair‐adduct Ph2PC(p‐Tol)C(C6F5)B(C6F5)2(CNtBu) with XeF2 gave Ph2P(F)C(p‐Tol)C(C6F5)B(F)(C6F5)2 (3). This species reacts with two equivalents of Al(C6F5)3⋅C7H8 producing the salt, [Ph2P(F)C(p‐Tol)C(C6F5)B(C6F5)2][F(Al(C6F5)3)2] (4), whereas reaction with HSiEt3/B(C6F5)3 gave Ph2P(F)C(p‐Tol)C(H)B(C6F5)3 (5). The photolysis of 3 resulted in aromatization affording the phenanthralene derivative Ph2P(F)C(p‐Tol(o‐C6F4))CB(F)(C6F5)2 (6).
DNA Aptamers are Functional Molecular Recognition Sensors in Protic Ionic Liquids
Authors: Machado Isabel , Özalp Veli Cengiz , Rezabal Elixabete , Schäfer Thomas
Published: July 2014

The function and structural changes of an AMP molecular aptamer beacon and its molecular recognition capacity for its target, adenosine monophosphate (AMP), was systematically explored in solution with a protic ionic liquid, ethylammonium nitrate (EAN). It could be proven that up to 2 M of EAN in TBS buffer, the AMP molecular aptamer beacon was still capable of recognizing AMP while also maintaining its specificity. The specificity was proven by using the guanosine monophosphate (GMP) as target; GMP is structurally similar to AMP but was not recognized by the aptamer. We also found that in highly concentrated EAN solutions the overall amount of double stranded DNA formed, as well as its respective thermal stability, diminished gradually, but surprisingly the hybridization rate (kh) of single stranded DNA was significantly accelerated in the presence of EAN. The latter may have important implications in DNA technology for the design of biosensing and DNA‐based nanodevices in nonconventional solvents, such as ionic liquids.
Invoking Pairwise Interactions in Water‐Promoted Diels–Alder Reactions by using Ionic Liquids as Cosolvents
Authors: Manna Arpan , Kumar Anil
Published: July 2014

Rate constants and derived activation parameters of organic reactions in aqueous media, in particular Diels–Alder reactions, are sensitive to the presence of cosolvents in water. To enhance the solubility window of water, we introduced ionic liquids as cosolvents in the aqueous Diels–Alder reaction between anthracene‐9‐carbinol and N‐ethylmaleimide. The reactive potentials of the organic compounds are parameterized by using semi‐empirical quantum chemical methods. The principle of Savage–Wood additivity of group interactions is used to quantify the pairwise group interactions among chemically inert ionic liquids and organic reactants, both at initial and transition states of the reaction. The present approach shows promise, as the use of simple calculations from easily available kinetic data can help researchers to understand the versatility of green ionic‐liquid alternatives to volatile organic solvents.
Mechanism of organization increase in complex systems
Authors: Georgiev Georgi Yordanov , Henry Kaitlin , Bates Timothy , Gombos Erin , Casey Alexander , Daly Michael , Vinod Amrit , Lee Hyunseung
Published: July 2014

This article proposes a variational approach to describe the evolution of organization of complex systems from first principles, as increased efficiency of physical action. Most simply stated, physical action is the product of the energy and time necessary for motion. When complex systems are modeled as flow networks, this efficiency is defined as a decrease of action for one element to cross between two nodes, or endpoints of motion—a principle of least unit action. We find a connection with another principle, that of most total action, or a tendency for increase of the total action of a system. This increase provides more energy and time for minimization of the constraints to motion to decrease unit action, and therefore, to increase organization. Also, with the decrease of unit action in a system, its capacity for total amount of action increases. We present a model of positive feedback between action efficiency and the total amount of action in a complex system, based on a system of ordinary differential equations, which leads to an exponential growth with time of each and a power law relation between the two. We present an agreement of our model with data for core processing units of computers. This approach can help to describe, measure, manage, design, and predict future behavior of complex systems to achieve the highest rates of self‐organization and robustness. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 21: 18–28, 2015
Preventing the Dissolution of Lithium Polysulfides in Lithium–Sulfur Cells by using Nafion‐coated Cathodes
Authors: Oh Soo Jung , Lee Jun Kyu , Yoon Woo Young
Published: July 2014

The principal drawback of lithium–sulfur batteries is the dissolution of long‐chain lithium polysulfides into the electrolyte, which limits cycling performance. To overcome this problem, we focused on the development of a novel cathode as well as anode material and designed Nafion‐coated NiCrAl/S as a cathode and lithium powder as an anode. Nafion‐coated NiCrAl/S cathode was synthesized using a two‐step dip‐coating technique. The lithium‐powder anode was used instead of a lithium‐foil anode to prohibit dendrite growth and to improve on the electrochemical behaviors. The cells showed an initial discharge capacity of about 900 mA g−1 and a final discharge capacity of 772 mA g−1 after 100 cycles at 0.1 C‐rate. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) demonstrate that using the Nafion‐coated NiCrAl/S cathode can suppress the dissolution of long‐chain lithium polysulfides.
Withdrawal of BDNF from hippocampal cultures leads to changes in genes involved in synaptic function
Authors: Mariga Abigail , Zavadil Jiri , Ginsberg Stephen D. , Chao Moses V.
Published: July 2014

Neurotrophins play a crucial role in mediating neuronal survival and synaptic plasticity. A lack of trophic factor support in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) is associated with a transcription‐dependent programmed cell death process in developing sympathetic neurons. While most of the attention has been on events culminating in cell death in the PNS, the earliest events that occur after trophic factor withdrawal in the central nervous system (CNS) have not been investigated. In the CNS, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is widely expressed and is released in an activity‐dependent manner to shape the structure and function of neuronal populations. Reduced neurotrophic factor support has been proposed as a mechanism to account for changes in synaptic plasticity during neurodevelopment to aging and neurodegenerative disorders. To this end, we performed transcriptional profiling in cultured rat hippocampal neurons. We used a TrkB ligand scavenger (TrkB‐FC) to sequester endogenous neurotrophic factor activity from hippocampal neurons in culture. Using a high‐density microarray platform, we identified a significant decrease in genes that are associated with vesicular trafficking and synaptic function, as well as selective increases in MAP kinase phosphatases. A comparison of these changes with recent studies of Alzheimer's disease and cognitive impairment in postmortem brain tissue revealed striking similarities in gene expression changes for genes involved in synaptic function. These changes are relevant to a wide number of conditions in which levels of BDNF are compromised. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 75: 173–192, 2015
Nanoparticle structure development in the gastro‐intestinal model fluid FaSSIFmod6.5 from several phospholipids at various water content relevant for oral drug administration
Authors: Khoshakhlagh Pooneh , Johnson Raphael , Nawroth Thomas , Langguth Peter , Schmueser Lars , Hellmann Nadja , Decker Heinz , Szekely Noemi Kinga
Published: July 2014

The characteristics of intestinal model fluids were investigated at conditions, which simulate the passage from the middle to the end of the duodenum. The formation and decay of liposomes and micelles in model bile fluids were studied, because of their role as an intermediate host for the resolution and uptake of hydrophobic drugs (BCS classes II, IV). The conditions, which may influence the formation of these nanoparticulate intermediates were studied, i.e., the lipid composition of the bile, the preparation method, the time of the passage through the modelled duodenum segment and the concentration, which results from the variable dilution of the bile by mixing with the transfer medium representing the fluid arriving from the stomach. The variation of the lecithin entity revealed an equivalence of Egg–lecithin of a high purity (99%) with its main component 1‐palmitoyl‐2‐oleoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphocholine POPC, while 1,2‐di‐oleoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphocholine DOPC resulted in a slight delay of the micelle‐liposome conversion. The FeSSIF preparation method was best with the sequential‐film method, while the bile‐film method yielded comparable results; the shake method showed a slightly different kinetics of the nanoparticle conversion. The time and concentration dependence of the formation and decay of lipidic nanoparticles indicates that these strongly depend on the passage time (speed) and bile dilution rate. The corresponding physiological conditions at healthy persons may vary in vivo individually and due to diseases. The studied conditions cover typical physiological conditions, which should be taken into consideration in the exploration of in vitro tests of formulations of hydrophobic drugs.

Formation and decay of liposomes and micelles from bile in the duodenum was studied, due to their role as an intermediate for resolution and uptake of hydrophobic drugs (BCS II, IV). The physiological conditions studied may vary individually and due to diseases.
Regiospecific Synthesis of Substituted 2‐Nitrobenzaldehydes from Benzaldehydes through Palladium‐Catalyzed Chelation‐Assisted C–H Nitration
Authors: Zhang Wei , Wu Degui , Zhang Jian , Liu Yunkui
Published: July 2014

A regiospecific synthesis of substituted 2‐nitrobenzaldehydes from substituted benzaldehydes has been developed that involves a three‐step process with palladium‐catalyzed chelation‐assisted C–H nitration as the key step. In the process, O‐methyl aldoxime serves as a removable directing group for the palladium‐catalyzed ortho‐nitration of substituted benzaldoximes and it can be removed in subsequent conversion of the resulting 2‐nitrobenzaldoximes into 2‐nitrobenzaldehydes.
Self‐report pain and symptom measures for primary dysmenorrhoea: A critical review
Authors: Chen C.X. , Kwekkeboom K.L. , Ward S.E.
Published: July 2014

Primary dysmenorrhoea (PD) is highly prevalent among women of reproductive age and it can have significant short‐ and long‐term consequences for both women and society as a whole. Validated symptom measures are fundamental for researchers to understand women's symptom experience of PD and to test symptom interventions. The objective of this paper was to critically review the content and psychometric properties of self‐report tools to measure symptoms of PD. Databases including PubMed, PsychoINFO, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and Health and Psychosocial Instruments were searched for self‐report symptom measures that had been used among women with either PD or perimenstrual symptoms. A total of 15 measures met inclusion criteria and were included in the final analysis. The measures were categorized into generic pain measures, dysmenorrhoea‐specific measures, and tools designed to measure perimenstrual symptoms. These measures had varying degrees of comprehensiveness of symptoms being measured, relevance to PD, multidimensionality and psychometric soundness. No single measure was found to be optimal for use, but some dysmenorrhoea‐specific measures could be recommended if revised and further tested. Key issues in symptom measurement for PD are discussed. Future research needs to strengthen dysmenorrhoea‐specific symptom measures by including a comprehensive list of symptoms based on the pathogenesis of PD, exploring relevant symptom dimensions beyond symptom severity (e.g., frequency, duration, symptom distress), and testing psychometric properties of the adapted tools using sound methodology and diverse samples.
English‐as‐a‐Second‐Language Programs for Matriculated Students in the United States: An Exploratory Survey and Some Issues
Authors: Ling Guangming , Wolf Mikyung Kim , Cho Yeonsuk , Wang Yuan
Published: July 2014

Although English‐as‐a‐second‐language (ESL) programs for matriculated students have been a presence in U.S. higher education since the 1940s, little has been documented in the literature concerning ESL courses, ESL placement tests, and the procedures in which incoming students are placed into appropriate classes. The present study takes three approaches to explore the characteristics of ESL programs for matriculated students, with the purposes of drawing a clearer picture of such programs and preparing for a further exploration of validity issues that arise when using standardized English proficiency tests, such as the TOEFL® test, to assist with ESL placement decisions. We reviewed the websites of 152 postsecondary institutions, obtained information from 80 institutions through an online survey, and interviewed representatives of 24 ESL programs for matriculated students. Analyses of these three sources of data revealed that ESL programs for matriculated students exist in more than half of colleges and universities sampled, that they provide a wide range of ESL courses focusing on different language skills, and that these programs make use of a variety of placement tests and procedures. We summarize these different placement procedures using a general model, highlight issues that need further investigations, and conclude with key findings and limitations.
The relationship between cognitive performance and insulin resistance in non‐diabetic patients with mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Kim Tae‐Eun , Lee Dong Hyun , Kim Yoon‐Jeong , Mok Ji Oh , Kim Chul‐ Hee , Park Jeong‐Ho , Lee Tae‐Kyeong , Yoo Kwangsun , Jeong Yong , Lee Yunhwan , Park Sun Ah
Published: July 2014

Objective

Insulin resistance (IR) is a distinct and early feature of type 2 diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome. IR is thought to play a vital role in cognitive impairment. We conducted this study to understand the early characteristics of cognitive dysfunctions attributable to IR.

Methods

This study included 85 consecutive non‐diabetic elderly participants with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). IR was estimated with the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR). Cognitive performances were analyzed as a function of scores on the HOMA‐IR.

Results

The group analysis those with and without IR did not show any differences in the cognitive performance although higher HOMA‐IR was closely associated with lower performances in immediate recall on the Seoul Verbal Learning Test (SVLT‐I) (r = −0.244, p = 0.026) and Controlled Oral Word Association Test (COWAT) (r = −0.270, p = 0.013). In subgroup analysis by APOE status, SVLT‐delayed (p = 0.027) and COWAT (p = 0.016) scores were found to be significantly lower in the IR than the non‐IR among those with APOE ε4 allele. In multiple regression analysis, impairment on the COWAT remained significantly correlated with scores on HOMA‐IR (β = −0.271, t = −2.340, p = 0.022). However, IR status was identified to interact with APOE ε4 carriership toward poor performances in the COWAT (β = −0.335, t = −2.285, p = 0.026).

Conclusion

This study found a domain‐specific impact of HOMA‐IR scores on cognitive performances in non‐diabetic patients with MCI. This association was profound only in APOE ε4carriers. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Suddenly included: Cultural differences in experiencing re‐inclusion
Authors: Pfundmair Michaela , Graupmann Verena , Du Hongfei , Frey Dieter , Aydin Nilüfer
Published: July 2014

In the current research, we examined whether re‐inclusion (i.e. the change from a previous state of exclusion to a new state of inclusion) was perceived differently by people with individualistic and collectivistic cultural backgrounds. Individualists (German and Austrian participants) but not collectivists (Chinese participants) experienced re‐inclusion differently than continued inclusion: While collectivistic participants did not differentiate between both kinds of inclusion, individualistic participants showed reduced fulfilment of their psychological needs under re‐inclusion compared to continued inclusion. The results moreover revealed that only participants from individualistic cultures expressed more feelings of exclusion when re‐included than when continually included. These exclusionary feelings partially mediated the relationship between the different states of inclusion and basic need fulfilment.
Diisocyanates, occupational asthma and IgE antibody: implications for hazard characterization
Authors: Kimber Ian , Dearman Rebecca J. , Basketter David A.
Published: July 2014

Sensitization of the respiratory tract by chemicals resulting in rhinitis and asthma is an important occupational health issue. Occupational asthma is associated with significant morbidity and can be fatal. Tests for the identification and characterization of chemicals with the potential to cause sensitization of the respiratory tract are lacking. In spite of sustained interest there are no validated or widely accepted methods available, and this presents toxicologists with a considerable challenge. One important constraint on the development of appropriate testing strategies has been uncertainty and controversy about the immunological mechanisms through which chemicals may induce sensitization of the respiratory tract. By analogy with protein respiratory allergy it is legitimate to consider that IgE antibody‐dependent mechanisms may play a pivotal role. However, although many aspects of chemical respiratory allergy are consistent with reactions caused by IgE antibody, uncertainty remains because among patients with occupational asthma caused by chemical respiratory allergens there are commonly a proportion, and sometimes a significant proportion, of subjects that lack detectable IgE antibody. Here we consider the relevance of IgE antibody responses for the development of a chemical respiratory allergy to diisocyanates. A case is made that IgE antibody responses are, either directly or indirectly, closely associated with occupational asthma to the diisocyanates (and to other chemical respiratory allergens). As such the argument is advanced here that IgE antibody represents an appropriate readout for the characterization of chemical respiratory allergens, and that uncertainty about mode of action should no longer represent a hurdle in the development of suitable test methods. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Basis set error estimation for DFT calculations of electronic g‐tensors for transition metal complexes
Authors: Pedersen Morten N. , Hedegård Erik D. , Kongsted Jacob
Published: July 2014

We present a detailed study of the basis set dependence of electronic g‐tensors for transition metal complexes calculated using Kohn–Sham density functional theory. Focus is on the use of locally dense basis set schemes where the metal is treated using either the same or a more flexible basis set than used for the ligand sphere. The performance of all basis set schemes is compared to the extrapolated complete basis set limit results. Furthermore, we test the performance of the aug‐cc‐pVTZ‐J basis set developed for calculations of NMR spin‐spin and electron paramagnetic resonance hyperfine coupling constants. Our results show that reasonable results can be obtain when using small basis sets for the ligand sphere, and very accurate results are obtained when an aug‐cc‐pVTZ basis set or similar is used for all atoms in the complex. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Magnetically Separable Catalyst for Synthesis of 1‐Phenoxy‐2‐propanol Via Atom‐economic Reaction
Authors: Feng Shide , Cao Fengyun , Lu Bin , Cai Qinghai
Published: July 2014

A magnetically separable catalyst Al2O3‐MgO/Fe3O4 was prepared by Al2O3‐MgO supported on magnetic oxide Fe3O4 and charactered by FT‐IR, XRD and SEM. The mixed oxides afforded high catalytic activity and selectivity for synthesis of 1‐phenoxy‐2‐propanol from phenol and propylene oxide with 80.3% conversion and 88.1% selectivity to 1‐phenoxy‐2‐propanol. Especially, facile separation of the catalyst by a magnet was obtained and the catalytic performance of the recovered catalyst was unaffected even at the forth run.
Recent Progress in Preparation and Lithium‐ion Storage Properties of TiO2 Mesocrystals
Authors: Hong Zhensheng , Wei Mingdeng
Published: July 2014

TiO2 nanostructures have been considered as promising anode materials in a new generation of lithiumion batteries due to their high safety, superior rate capability and excellent cyclic stability. In particular, TiO2 mesocrystals, a new class of superstructured materials, have attracted a great deal of research interests due to the unique structure composed of crystallographically oriented nanocrystals, and thus showed improved lithium‐ion insertion performance. In this review, recent progress in preparation and lithium‐ion storage properties of TiO2 mesocrystals are summarized. Two typical ways for synthesizing TiO2 mesocrystals are described, namely, the oriented topotactic transformation and direct synthesis in solution. The additive‐free synthesis of TiO2 mesocrystals and their lithium‐ion intercalation properties are highlighted and discussed.
New sensitive detection method for lectin hemagglutination using microscopy
Authors: Adamová Lenka , Malinovská Lenka , Wimmerová Michaela
Published: July 2014

The blood group system AB0 is determined by the composition of terminal oligosaccharides on red blood cells. Thanks to this structural feature, these groups can be recognized by saccharide‐recognizing compounds. Lectins are proteins that are able to reversibly bind saccharide structures. They generally occur as multimers and are known as hemagglutination agents. Hemagglutination is a process in which blood cells are cross‐linked via multivalent molecules. Apart from lectins, hemagglutination can also be caused by antibodies or viruses. A hemagglutination assay is commonly used for the detection of multivalent molecules that recognize blood cells, in order to search for their sugar specificity. It is traditionally performed on a microtiter plate, where the lectin solution is serially diluted and the lowest concentration of lectin causing agglutination is detected. This experimental set‐up is utilized further for testing lectin specificity via a hemagglutination inhibition assay. We have developed a new way of detecting hemagglutination using microscopy, which was tested on purified lectins as well as cell lysates. Hemagglutination was performed on a microscope slide directly and detected using a microscope. Comparison with the standard hemagglutination assay using microtiter plates revealed that microscopic approach is faster and more robust and allows fast determination of lectin activities immediately in bacterial cytosols. Microsc. Res. Tech. 77:841–849, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Raman microspectroscopy of gemstones from a chalice made in 1732
Authors: Jeršek Miha , Kramar Sabina
Published: July 2014

The baroque chalice made in 1732 contains 456 embedded gemstones and is one the most richly decorated chalices in Slovenia. With the aid of Raman microspectroscopy, in combination with gemology microscopy and ultraviolet fluorescence, individual types of gemstones and certain inclusions were analysed and determined. The chalice was adorned with 24 diamonds, 93 rubies, 4 sapphires, 152 emeralds, 101 almandine garnets, 6 grossular garnets, 68 amethysts, 6 citrines, one specimen of glass and one of agate. In combination with macroscopic observations and literature data, the origins of the diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds were assessed. At the same time, we were able to determine which gemstones in the chalice had actually been substituted. The diamonds most probably originate from India, the rubies from Myanmar, the three sapphires from Sri Lanka and the emeralds from Colombia, whereas for the other gemstones, some detailed analyses still need to be performed. At a later date, sapphire, glass, synthetic ruby and green agate were embedded into the chalice as substitutes for lost stones. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Regeneration of the Oxidation Catalysts Based on the Aqueous Solutions of Non‐Keggin Mo‐V‐P Heteropoly Acids by Molecular Oxygen
Authors: ZHIZHINA ELENA G. , ODYAKOV VIKTOR F.
Published: July 2014

Kinetic peculiarities of regeneration of the aqueous solutions of non‐Keggin‐type Mo‐V‐P heteropoly acids HaPzMoyVx′Ob (HPA‐x′) and their acidic salts by O2 are studied. The HPA‐x′ solutions have heightened thermal stability that permits to consider them as highly efficient catalysts for different oxidation processes. In the HPA‐x′ and their salts solutions, these peculiarities prove to be similar. The studied reaction is of the first order with respect to O2 and V(IV), if [V(IV)] is higher than 0.8 M. As [V(IV)] decreases during the reaction, its order with respect to V(IV) increases to the third. The apparent activation energy of the reaction at temperatures 150–170°С is 37.5 kJ mol−1. The obtained kinetic equation was used to calculate a new effective air reactor for the regeneration of the homogeneous HPA‐x′ catalyst in a pilot process of methylethylketone synthesis.
Ultrastructure and complex polar architecture of the human pathogen Campylobacter jejuni
Authors: Müller Axel , Beeby Morgan , McDowall Alasdair W. , Chow Janet , Jensen Grant J. , Clemons William M.
Published: July 2014

Campylobacter jejuni is one of the most successful food‐borne human pathogens. Here we use electron cryotomography to explore the ultrastructure of C. jejuni cells in logarithmically growing cultures. This provides the first look at this pathogen in a near‐native state at macromolecular resolution (~5 nm). We find a surprisingly complex polar architecture that includes ribosome exclusion zones, polyphosphate storage granules, extensive collar‐shaped chemoreceptor arrays, and elaborate flagellar motors.
Outer membrane vesicles of Pasteurella multocida contain virulence factors
Authors: Fernández‐Rojas Miguel A. , Vaca Sergio , Reyes‐López Magda , de la Garza Mireya , Aguilar‐Romero Francisco , Zenteno Edgar , Soriano‐Vargas Edgardo , Negrete‐Abascal Erasmo
Published: July 2014

Pasteurella multocida (Pm) is a gram‐negative bacterium able to infect different animal species, including human beings. This bacterium causes economic losses to the livestock industry because of its high morbidity and mortality in animals. In this work, we report the characterization of outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) released into the culture medium by different Pm serogroups. Purified OMVs in the range of 50–300 nm were observed by electron microscopy. Serum obtained from chickens infected with Pm recognized several proteins from Pm OMVs. Additionally, rabbit antiserum directed against a secreted protease from Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae recognized a similar protein in the Pm OVMs, suggesting that OMVs from these bacterial species contain common immunogenic proteins. OmpA, a multifunctional protein, was identified in OMVs from different Pm serogroups, and its concentration was twofold higher in OMVs from Pm serogroups B and D than in OMVs from other serogroups. Three outer membrane proteins were also identified: OmpH, OmpW, and transferrin‐binding protein. Three bands of 65, 110, and 250 kDa with proteolytic activity were detected in Pm OMVs of serogroups A and E. Additionally, β‐lactamase activity was detected only in OMVs from Pm 12945 Ampr (serogroup A). Pm OMVs may be involved in different aspects of disease pathogenesis.
Dietary differences are reflected on the gut prokaryotic community structure of wild and commercially reared sea bream (Sparus aurata)
Authors: Kormas Konstantinos A. , Meziti Alexandra , Mente Eleni , Frentzos Athanasios
Published: July 2014

We compared the gut prokaryotic communities in wild, organically‐, and conventionally reared sea bream (Sparus aurata) individuals. Gut microbial communities were identified using tag pyrosequencing of the 16S rRNA genes. There were distinct prokaryotic communities in the three different fish nutritional treatments, with the bacteria dominating over the Archaea. Most of the Bacteria belonged to the Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, and Bacteroidetes. The number of bacterial operational taxonomic units (OTUs) was reduced from the wild to the conventionally reared fish, implying a response of the gut microorganisms to the supplied food and possibly alterations in food assimilation. The dominant bacterial OTU in all examined fish was closely related to the genus Diaphorobacter. This is the first time that a member of the β‐Proteobacteria, which dominate in freshwaters, are so important in a marine fish gut. In total the majority of the few Archaea OTUs found, were related to methane metabolism. The inferred physiological roles of the dominant prokaryotes are related to the metabolism of carbohydrates and nitrogenous compounds. This study showed the responsive feature of the sea bream gut prokaryotic communities to their diets and also the differences of the conventional in comparison to the organic and wild sea bream gut microbiota.
A secondary data analysis of Internet use in caregivers of persons with dementia
Authors: Kim Heejung , Rose Karen M. , Netemeyer Richard G. , Merwin Elizabeth I. , Williams Ishan C.
Published: July 2014

Aim

This paper is a secondary data analysis to investigate relationships among caregiver stress appraisal, self‐rated health and health‐related Internet use.

Design

Cross‐sectional correlation design.

Methods

National Alliance for Caregiving telephone survey conducted in the USA was a primary data source collected in 2009 from 258 caregivers of persons with dementia, who used the Internet to perform care‐giving tasks. Based on Pearlin's Stress Process Model, structural equation modelling was conducted.

Results

Caregivers with poor health reported higher levels of caregiver stress appraised, which was associated with more Internet use for health‐related purposes. It is required to develop effective Internet‐based resources to meet the needs of highly stressed caregivers of persons with dementia. However, there was no relationship between self‐rated health and health‐related Internet use in dementia caregiver.
The Embarrassment of Riches: Rationalising Faunal Assemblages from Large Urban Sites
Authors: Rainsford C. , O'Connor T. , Connelly P.
Published: July 2014

Museums and other curatorial bodies face the significant challenge of storing large volumes of material recovered from decades of archaeological excavation, amongst which are very large collections of animal bones. As stores fill up, there is pressure to reconsider curation policies, to the point of refusing further deposition and disposal of existing material. Faced with this situation, York Archaeological Trust looked to develop and implement a strategy to reduce the curated research resource of animal bones, accepting that some excavated assemblages are of low research potential. Applying this strategy to animal bones from the Hungate excavation resulted in a substantial reduction in the volume of material regarded as of significant future research value. The strategy also generated a digital record, including images, that provides the justification for those retention decisions as well as a useful survey that facilitates the location of suitable material for further research. This pilot study shows that it is possible to rationalise what would otherwise be a substantial store of bone assemblages to give a smaller, better‐documented and more research‐relevant archive of material. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Myxopapillary ependymoma in children: A study of 11 cases and a comparison with the adult experience
Authors: Cimino Patrick J. , Agarwal Ashima , Dehner Louis P.
Published: July 2014

Background

Myxopapillary ependymomas (MEPN) are uncommon tumors of the central nervous system, mainly occurring within the conus medullaris–filum terminale. MEPNs can also present in the skin and underlying soft tissues of the sacrococcygeal region. The incidence of extramedullary MEPNs in children is unclear.

Procedure

We retrospectively reviewed our institutional files for MEPN cases between the years 1990–2012. A total of 11 pediatric and 38 adult cases were identified and compared to determine differences between these two distinct age groups.

Results

There were 40 (82%) tumors arising in the spine and nine (18%) in extramedullary sites. Pathologic examination revealed that extramedullary and spinal MEPNs were indistinguishable morphologically and immunophenotypically. Among the 11 children with MEPNs, seven had tumors presenting in extramedullary sites whereas only two adults (5%) had extramedullary tumors; this difference was highly significant (P < 0.0001). The lumbosacral portion of the spinal cord was the primary site for the remaining 40 MEPNs, four (10%) of which presented in children. One extramedullary MEPN (9%) recurred in a 45‐year‐old woman, and five (11%) of 40 spinal tumors recurred and/or metastasized; two of four children with spinal MEPNs developed recurrences and a manifestation to the aggressive nature of the latter tumor in the spinal cord of children.

Conclusions

Based upon our experience, MEPN in children is more likely to present in the extramedullary soft tissues of the sacrococcygeal region where its behavior is more indolent than those tumors arising in the spinal cord in children. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1969–1971. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Feasibility and acceptability of an iPad application to explore symptom clusters in adolescents and young adults with cancer
Authors: Macpherson Catherine Fiona , Linder Lauri A. , Ameringer Suzanne , Erickson Jeanne , Stegenga Kristin , Woods Nancy F.
Published: July 2014

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a computer‐based symptom cluster heuristics tool designed to explore symptom clusters experienced by adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer. The Computerized Symptom Capture Tool (C‐SCAT) is a newly developed iPad application, which combines graphical images and free text responses in an innovative heuristics approach to explore symptoms and symptom clusters.

Procedure

Seventy‐two AYAs (13–29 years of age) with cancer at five institutions across the US completed the C‐SCAT 24–96 hours after the initial chemotherapy dose in a chemotherapy cycle.

Results

All participants completed the C‐SCAT successfully in a mean of 25 minutes, with 74% reporting that the final image was an accurate or very accurate representation of their symptom experience. Little clarification/coaching was necessary while completing the C‐SCAT. Few technical problems were encountered. Participants judged the C‐SCAT questions to be clear and endorsed ease of following instructions, typing, and drawing.

Conclusions

The C‐SCAT demonstrated feasibility and acceptability. With refinement based on study results, the C‐SCAT has potential to: (a) empower AYAs to communicate their symptom experience and partner with providers in their care; (b) improve symptom management and ameliorate distress; and (c) translate to use with other highly symptomatic populations. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1996–2003. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Practices of pediatric oncology and hematology providers regarding fertility issues: A European survey
Authors: Terenziani Monica , Spinelli Marco , Jankovic Momcilo , Bardi Edit , Hjorth Lars , Haupt Riccardo , Michel Gisela , Byrne Julianne ,   on behalf of the PanCare Network
Published: July 2014

Background

Fertility is impaired in many survivors of childhood cancer following treatment. Preservation of fertility after cancer has become a central survivorship concern. Nevertheless, several doctors, patients, and families do not discuss fertility and recommendations for fertility preservation in pediatrics are still lacking. Recommendations based on scientific evidence are needed and before their development we wanted to assess the practice patterns of fertility preservation in Europe.

Procedures

On behalf of the PanCare network, we sent a questionnaire to pediatric onco‐hematology institutions across Europe. The survey consisted of 21 questions assessing their usual practices around fertility preservation.

Results

One hundred ninety‐eight institutional representatives across Europe received the survey and 68 (response rate 34.3%) responded. Pre‐treatment fertility counseling was offered by 64 institutions. Counseling was done by a pediatric onco‐hematologist in 52% (33/64) and in 32% (20/64) by a team. The majority of institutions (53%) lacked recommendations for fertility preservation. All 64 centers offered sperm banking; eight offered testicular tissue cryopreservation for pre‐pubertal males. For females, the possibility of preserving ovarian tissue was offered by 40 institutions.

Conclusions

There is a high level of interest in fertility preservation among European centers responding to our survey. However, while most recommended sperm cryopreservation, many also recommended technologies whose efficacy has not been shown. There is an urgent need for evidence‐based European recommendations for fertility preservation to help survivors deal with the stressful topic of fertility. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:2054–2058. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Kilogram scale inverse vulcanization of elemental sulfur to prepare high capacity polymer electrodes for Li‐S batteries
Authors: Griebel Jared J. , Li Guoxing , Glass Richard S. , Char Kookheon , Pyun Jeffrey
Published: July 2014

The synthesis of high content sulfur copolymers via the inverse vulcanization of elemental sulfur and 1,3‐diisopropenylbenzene (DIB) on a one‐kilogram scale is reported in a single step process. Investigation into the effects of temperature, reaction scale, and comonomer feed ratios on the inverse vulcanization process of S8 and DIB were explored to suppress the Trommsdorf effect and enable large scale synthesis of these copolymers. The copolymers were then successfully used as the active cathode materials in Li‐S batteries, exhibiting enhanced capacity retention and battery lifetimes (608 mAh/g at 640 cycles) at a C/10 rate. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2015, 53, 173–177
A novel approach for detecting viable and tissue‐specific circulating tumor cells through an adenovirus‐based reporter vector
Authors: Wu Ping , Sokoll Lori J. , Kudrolli Tarana A. , Chowdhury Wasim H. , Ma Rong , Liu Minzhi M. , Rodriguez Ronald , Lupold Shawn E.
Published: July 2014

BACKGROUND

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) hold great promise as biomarkers and are a direct source of tumor cells through a simple blood draw. However, CTCs are rare and their detection requires sensitive and specific methods to overcome the overwhelming hematocyte population. Therefore, CTC detection remains technically challenging.

METHODS

An assay was developed for detecting viable and tissue‐specific CTCs using a tropism‐enhanced and conditionally replicating reporter adenovirus (CTC‐RV). Adenoviral replication was made prostate‐specific by placing the E1A gene under the control of the probasin promoter and prostate‐specific antigen enhancer (PSE‐PBN). Viral tropism was expanded through capsid‐displayed integrin targeting peptides. A secreted reporter, humanized Metridia Luciferase (hMLuc), was engineered for expression during the major late phase of viral replication. The assay involves red blood cell lysis, cell collection, viral infection, and subsequent quantification of reporter activity from cellular media. Assay and reporter stability, cell specificity and sensitivity were evaluated in cell dilution models in human blood.

RESULTS

A conditionally replicating prostate‐selective adenovirus reporter and CTC assay system were generated. The secreted reporter, MLuc, was found to be stable for at least 3 days under assay conditions. CTC detection, modeled by cell dilution in blood, was selective for androgen receptor positive prostate cancer (PCa) cells. Serial dilution demonstrated assay linearity and sensitivity to as few as three cells. Prostate cancer cell viability declined after several hours in anticoagulated blood at ambient temperatures.

CONCLUSIONS

Conditionally replicative adenoviral vectors and secreted reporters offer a functional method to detect viable CTCs with cell specificity and high sensitivity. Prostate 74: 1286–1296, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Understanding hazards, consequences, LOPA, SILs, PFD, and RRFs as related to risk and hazard assessment
Authors: Blanco Roberto Fernández
Published: July 2014

This article is intended for any engineer, supervisor, or manager who does not specialize in process safety engineering. It presents the concept of layers of protection analysis, safety integrity level (SIL) and its relationship to probability of failure on demand (PFD) and the related risk reduction factors (RRFs). Novel SIL/PFD/RRF graphics are presented to help the reader understand the concepts involved. An example using a safety instrument function for a gas‐fired boiler is also used to help the reader understand the concepts. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 33: 208–216, 2014
Free exciton luminescence from a diamond p–i–n diode grown on a substrate produced by heteroepitaxy
Authors: Takeuchi D. , Makino T. , Kato H. , Ogura M. , Tokuda N. , Matsumoto T. , Kuwabara D. , Okushi H. , Yamasaki S.
Published: July 2014

We fabricated diamond p–i–n diodes with homoepitaxially grown films on a heteroepitaxial diamond (001) substrate produced with diamond films grown on iridium (Ir). We applied our state‐of‐the‐art techniques on single crystal diamond‐based electronic devices. The current–voltage characteristics of the p–i–n diodes showed good rectification properties. Under forward current operation, the diode showed both free exciton and defect‐related luminescence. When the forward current increased, integrated intensity of defect‐related luminescence increased sub‐linearly, while that of free exciton luminescence increased super‐linearly. This remarkable trend is the same as that observed in a p–i–n diode fabricated with homoepitaxially grown films on the conventional high‐pressure and high‐temperature synthesized diamond single‐crystal substrates. The results obtained in this paper indicate a sufficient potential of the heteroepitaxial diamond substrates grown on Ir for future diamond‐based electronic devices.
Mediation effect of sub‐monolayer carbon on interfacial mixing in Ge growth on Si(100)
Authors: Itoh Yuhki , Hayase Ryo , Hatakeyama Shinji , Kawashima Tomoyuki , Washio Katsuyoshi
Published: July 2014

The mediation effect of carbon (C) on interfacial mixing in Ge growth was studied using C‐covered Si surface (Ge/C/Si) and C over thin Ge buffer layer (Ge/C/Ge/Si) systems. The samples were prepared by solid‐source molecular beam epitaxy system with electron beam gun for C sublimation and K‐cell for Ge evaporation. The interdiffusion at the interface and deterioration in crystallinity of Ge layer was evaluated by Raman spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction, respectively. In the case of Ge/C/Si system, the interdiffusion of Si and Ge atoms was suppressed by more than 0.3 monolayer (ML)‐C depositions while crystallinity of Ge layer was deteriorates by the formation of Si‐C at the Si surface and the incorporation of C atoms in Ge layer. In the case of Ge/C/Ge/Si system, the crystallinity of Ge layer was maintained even at C coverage of a few MLs, however, the amount of C to suppress the Ge/Si interdiffusion was more than 3 ML. From the correlation between Ge crystallinity and surface roughness, Ge/C/Ge/Si structure is considered to be more effective to take advantage of C mediation. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Photoluminescence properties of Ce3+ ions in Ce‐doped SiO1.5 thin films containing Si nanocrystals
Authors: Weimmerskirch‐Aubatin J. , Stoffel M. , Devaux X. , Bouché A. , Vergnat M. , Rinnert H.
Published: July 2014

We investigate the luminescence properties of Ce3+ ions in Ce‐doped SiO1.5 thin films containing Si nanocrystals (Si‐ncs) by means of steady‐state photoluminescence (PL), time‐resolved PL and PL excitation spectroscopy. Strong Ce‐related blue luminescence is observed with the naked eye at room temperature. The Ce‐related lumines‐cence is found to ncrease with the Ce content in the films while simultaneously, the Si‐nc‐related luminescence decreases. Moreover, the decay time of the Si‐nc related luminescence decreases for increasing Ce concentrations thus suggesting a possible indirect excitation of the Ce3+ ions via Si‐ncs. However, PL excitation measurements show that Ce3+ ions are mainly directly excited with only a negligible influence of the Si‐ncs. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Endobronchial cryptococcosis induced by Cryptococcus gattii mimicking metastatic lung cancer
Authors: Nakashima Kazuhisa , Akamatsu Hiroaki , Endo Masahiro , Kawamura Ichiro , Nakajima Takashi , Takahashi Toshiaki
Published: July 2014

A 41‐year‐old previously healthy Japanese man complained of cough for 2 months. A chest computed tomography scan revealed a mass in his left lung with multiple mediastinal lymphadenopathy. Brain magnetic resonance imaging showed many small, enhancing lesions. He was admitted to our hospital for further evaluation of an abnormal shadow suspicious for metastatic lung cancer. Bronchoscopy showed aggregated white nodes in the compressively stenosed left main bronchus. A specimen from transbronchial biopsy showed many foamy and yeast‐like cells. Cultures and additional gene analysis identified these cells as Cryptococcus gattii. Antifungal treatment was commenced and his symptoms clearly improved. To our knowledge, this is the first case of an aggressive form of endobronchial cryptococcosis caused by C. gattii.