bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural features of interfacial tyrosine residue in ROBO1 fibronectin domain‐antibody complex: Crystallographic, thermodynamic, and molecular dynamic analyses
Authors: Nakayama Taisuke , Mizohata Eiichi , Yamashita Takefumi , Nagatoishi Satoru , Nakakido Makoto , Iwanari Hiroko , Mochizuki Yasuhiro , Kado Yuji , Yokota Yuki , Satoh Reiko , Tsumoto Kouhei , Fujitani Hideaki , Kodama Tatsuhiko , Hamakubo Takao , Inoue Tsuyoshi
Published: December 2014

ROBO1, fibronectin Type‐III domain (Fn)‐containing protein, is a novel immunotherapeutic target for hepatocellular carcinoma in humans. The crystal structure of the antigen‐binding fragment (Fab) of B2212A, the monoclonal antibody against the third Fn domain (Fn3) of ROBO1, was determined in pursuit of antibody drug for hepatocellular carcinoma. This effort was conducted in the presence or absence of the antigen, with the chemical features being investigated by determining the affinity of the antibody using molecular dynamics (MD) and thermodynamics. The structural comparison of B2212A Fab between the complex and the free form revealed that the interfacial TyrL50 (superscripts L, H, and F stand for the residues in the light chain, heavy chain, and Fn3, respectively) played important roles in Fn3 recognition. That is, the aromatic ring of TyrL50 pivoted toward PheF68, forming a CH/π interaction and a new hydrogen bond with the carbonyl O atom of PheF68. MD simulations predicted that the TyrL50‐PheF68 interaction almost entirely dominated Fab‐Fn3 binding, and Ala‐substitution of TyrL50 led to a reduced binding of the resultant complex. On the contrary, isothermal titration calorimetry experiments underscored that Ala‐substitution of TyrL50 caused an increase of the binding enthalpy between B2212A and Fn3, but importantly, it induced an increase of the binding entropy, resulting in a suppression of loss in the Gibbs free energy in total. These results suggest that mutation analysis considering the binding entropy as well as the binding enthalpy will aid in the development of novel antibody drugs for hepatocellular carcinoma.
Comparisons of antifeedancy and spatial repellency of three natural product repellents against horn flies, Haematobia irritans (Diptera: Muscidae)
Authors: Zhu Junwei J , Brewer Gary J , Boxler David J , Friesen Kristina , Taylor David B
Published: December 2014

BACKGROUND

Horn flies are among the most important biting fly pests of cattle in the United States. Horn fly management is largely dependent upon pesticides, which ultimately leads to the rapid development of insecticide resistance. Alternative control strategies, including repellents, have shown promising results in reducing fly biting. In the present study, we examined the efficacy and longevity of recently identified natural product repellents against horn flies.

RESULTS

Catnip oil, geraniol and C8910 acids reduced horn fly feeding in a laboratory bioassay and also exhibited spatial repellency in the olfactometer. Residual activity was observed for up to 3 days in laboratory assays; however, 24 h of residual effectiveness was observed from the two repellents when applied on cattle in the field. The limited residual effectiveness was correlated with the high volatility of the major active repellent compounds.

CONCLUSION

All three natural product repellents effectively repel biting horn flies, exhibiting both feeding deterrence and spatial repellency. They may be used for developing an effective push‐pull strategy with a slow release matrix that can prolong their effectiveness for horn fly management. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Accounting for uncertainty due to ‘last observation carried forward’ outcome imputation in a meta‐analysis model
Authors: Dimitrakopoulou Vasiliki , Efthimiou Orestis , Leucht Stefan , Salanti Georgia
Published: December 2014

Missing outcome data are a problem commonly observed in randomized control trials that occurs as a result of participants leaving the study before its end. Missing such important information can bias the study estimates of the relative treatment effect and consequently affect the meta‐analytic results. Therefore, methods on manipulating data sets with missing participants, with regard to incorporating the missing information in the analysis so as to avoid the loss of power and minimize the bias, are of interest. We propose a meta‐analytic model that accounts for possible error in the effect sizes estimated in studies with last observation carried forward (LOCF) imputed patients. Assuming a dichotomous outcome, we decompose the probability of a successful unobserved outcome taking into account the sensitivity and specificity of the LOCF imputation process for the missing participants. We fit the proposed model within a Bayesian framework, exploring different prior formulations for sensitivity and specificity. We illustrate our methods by performing a meta‐analysis of five studies comparing the efficacy of amisulpride versus conventional drugs (flupenthixol and haloperidol) on patients diagnosed with schizophrenia. Our meta‐analytic models yield estimates similar to meta‐analysis with LOCF‐imputed patients. Allowing for uncertainty in the imputation process, precision is decreased depending on the priors used for sensitivity and specificity. Results on the significance of amisulpride versus conventional drugs differ between the standard LOCF approach and our model depending on prior beliefs on the imputation process. Our method can be regarded as a useful sensitivity analysis that can be used in the presence of concerns about the LOCF process. Copyright © 2014 JohnWiley & Sons, Ltd.
Temperatureinfluss auf Dachschneelasten von Gewächshäusern – Abtauen von Schnee über wärmedurchlässigen Dacheindeckungen
Authors: Pertermann Ina , Puthli Ram , Ummenhofer Thomas
Published: December 2014

Schneelasten sind für Leichtbauten oftmals bemessungsrelevant. Deshalb wird bei beheizten Gewächshäusern über transparenten, wärmedurchlässigen Bedachungen traditionell das Abtauen von Schnee in Ansatz gebracht. Die somit reduzierten Schneelasten ermöglichen große Scheibenabmessungen für optimales Pflanzenwachstum. Die pauschalen Lastansätze von 0,25 kN/m2 oder 0,75 kN/m2 Dachschnee in der deutschen Gewächshausnorm DIN 11535 haben sich über viele Jahre bewährt. Die Gewächshausnorm musste jedoch an das europäische Bemessungskonzept angepasst werden. Im März 2014 sind zwei neue Fachberichte erschienen: DIN SPEC 18071 für Produktionsgewächshäuser und DIN SPEC 18072 für Verkaufsgewächshäuser, die eine für die deutsche Normung neue Möglichkeit der rechnerischen Erfassung des Abtauens von Schnee enthalten – den Temperaturbeiwert. Dieses Vorgehen wird durch einen Verweis im Eurocode DIN EN 1991‐1‐3 auf die internationale Schneelastnorm ISO 4355 möglich. Hintergrund und Anwendung des Temperaturbeiwerts im Gewächshausbau werden in diesem Beitrag vorgestellt.

Temperature influence on roof snow loads of greenhouses – Melting of snow over heat‐permeable claddings. Snow loads often govern the design of lightweight structures. Therefore, for heated greenhouses, the melting of snow over transparent heat‐permeable claddings has traditionally always been considered. The consequent reduction of snow loads allows adequate glazing sizes for optimal plant growth. Constant roof snow loads of 0,25 kN/m2 or 0,75 kN/m2 in the German greenhouse standard DIN 11535 have stood the test of time over many years. However, the greenhouse standard had to be adapted to the European design concept of the Eurocodes. Therefore, in March 2014 two new technical specifications have been published: DIN SPEC 18071 for commercial production greenhouses and DIN SPEC 18072 for sales greenhouses. Within German standards, this allows for a new possibility for calculating snow load reduction due to melting of snow, using the thermal coefficient. This approach is made possible by a normative reference in the Eurocode DIN EN 1991‐1‐3 to the international snow load standard ISO 4355. Background and use of the thermal coefficient in greenhouse design is presented in this article.
What memory is
Authors: Klein Stanley B.
Published: December 2014

I argue that our current practice of ascribing the term ‘memory’ to mental states and processes lacks epistemic warrant. Memory, according to the ‘received view’, is any state or process that results from the sequential stages of encoding, storage, and retrieval. By these criteria, memory, or its footprint, can be seen in virtually every mental state we are capable of having. This, I argue, stretches the term to the breaking point. I draw on phenomenological, historical, and conceptual considerations to make the case that an act of memory entails a direct, non‐inferential feeling of reacquaintance with one's past. It does so by linking content retrieved from storage with autonoetic awareness during retrieval. On this view, memory is not the content of experience, but the manner in which that content is experienced. I discuss some theoretical and practical implications and advantages of adopting this more circumscribed view of memory.WIREs Cogn Sci2015, 6:1–38. doi: 10.1002/wcs.1333

This article is categorized under:

Psychology > Memory
Impacts of morphological traits and temperature on fine root respiration during dormancy of Caragana korshinskii
Authors: Lai Zongrui , Zhang Yuqing , Wu Bin , Qin Shugao , Feng Wei , Liu Jiabin
Published: December 2014

Respiration of fine roots (Rfr) plays a major role in belowground carbon cycles, but the relationships between Rfr and biotic and abiotic factors during plant dormancy remain unclear. We used a standard chamber equipped with an infrared gas analyzer and configured as an open system to measure Rfr of intact roots (<2 mm) of Caragana korshinskii in situ in November 2013. Rates of Rfr in C.korshinskii were closely related to root morphological traits, including mean root diameter (Dfr, mm), specific root length (SRL, root length per unit root mass, m g−1), and root tissue density (RTD, root mass per unit root volume, g cm−3). During dormancy of C.korshinskii, smaller‐diameter fine roots had higher respiration rates than larger diameter fine roots, and Rfr increased with increasing SRL and decreasing RTD. Meanwhile, Rfr rates increased exponentially with increasing root temperature. Soil temperature (especially in the subsoil layer) did not play a role in controlling changes in Rfr. The results indicated that changes in root temperature and Dfr were likely to determine rates of Rfr in C.korshinskii during dormancy. Our results highlight the importance of assessing carbon loss from fine roots during the dormant period.
Risk Factors for Complications of Open Trigger Finger Release
Authors: Everding Nathan G. , Bishop Gavin B. , Belyea Christopher M. , Soong Maximillian C.
Published: December 2014

Background

Open trigger finger release is generally considered a simple low-risk procedure. Reported complication rates vary widely from 1 to 43 %, mostly based on small studies. Our goal was to determine the incidence of complications in a large consecutive series, while also identifying potential risk factors.

Methods

All open trigger finger releases performed from 2006 to 2009 by four fellowship-trained hand surgeons at a single institution were retrospectively reviewed. There were 795 digits released in 543 patients. Complications were defined as signs or symptoms requiring further treatment and/or considered unresolved by 1 month postoperatively. Complications requiring operative intervention were regarded as major. Multivariable analysis was performed to determine possible risk factors for complications.

Results

There were 95 documented complications among 795 digits (12 %). The most common complications involved persistent pain, stiffness, or swelling, persistent or recurrent triggering, or superficial infection. Most were treated nonoperatively with observation, therapy, steroid injection, or oral antibiotics. There were 19 reoperations (2.4 %), mostly including revision release, tenosynovectomy, and irrigation and debridement. Male gender, sedation, and general anesthesia were independently associated with complications, while age, diabetes, hypothyroidism, recent injection, and concurrent procedures were not associated.

Conclusions

Open trigger finger release is generally a low-risk procedure, although there is potential for complications, some requiring reoperation. Male gender, sedation, and general anesthesia may be associated with greater risk. Surgeons should be careful to thoroughly discuss the risk of both major and minor complications when counseling patients.
In Situ Synchrotron X-ray Study of Ultrasound Cavitation and Its Effect on Solidification Microstructures
Authors: Mi Jiawei , Tan Dongyue , Lee Tung Lik
Published: December 2014

Considerable progress has been made in studying the mechanism and effectiveness of using ultrasound waves to manipulate the solidification microstructures of metallic alloys. However, uncertainties remain in both the underlying physics of how microstructures evolve under ultrasonic waves, and the best technological approach to control the final microstructures and properties. We used the ultrafast synchrotron X-ray phase contrast imaging facility housed at the Advanced Photon Source, Argonne National Laboratory, US to study in situ the highly transient and dynamic interactions between the liquid metal and ultrasonic waves/bubbles. The dynamics of ultrasonic bubbles in liquid metal and their interactions with the solidifying phases in a transparent alloy were captured in situ. The experiments were complemented by the simulations of the acoustic pressure field, the pulsing of the bubbles, and the associated forces acting onto the solidifying dendrites. The study provides more quantitative understanding on how ultrasonic waves/bubbles influence the growth of dendritic grains and promote the grain multiplication effect for grain refinement.
The Phospholipidomic Signatures of Human Blood Microparticles, Platelets and Platelet‐Derived Microparticles: a Comparative HILIC‐ESI–MS Investigation
Authors: Losito Ilario , Conte Elena , Cataldi Tommaso R. I. , Cioffi Nicola , Megli Francesco M. , Palmisano Francesco
Published: December 2014

The phospholipidomic signatures of human blood microparticles and platelets, evaluated by hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionization—mass spectrometry, were compared. The phospholipidome of platelet‐derived microparticles, obtained by platelets stimulation with a mixture of Ca(II), thrombin and collagen, was also considered for the comparison. Platelets, blood microparticles and platelet‐derived microparticles displayed qualitatively similar phospholipidomes, all based on eight major phospholipid classes, namely: phosphatidylcholines, diacyl‐ and plasme(a)nyl‐phosphatidylethanolamines, phosphatidylserines, phosphatidylinositols, sphingomyelins and lyso forms of phosphatidylcholines and phosphatidylethanolamines. However, while the phospholipidomes of platelets and platelet‐derived microparticles were found to be generally similar also from a quantitative point of view, a higher relative incidence of species bearing polyunsaturated side chains, especially in phospholipid classes sharing the choline head (i.e. phosphatidylcholines and lyso‐phosphatidylcholines), was observed in the case of blood microparticles. As a further peculiar feature, never reported before, the relative abundance of lyso‐phosphatidylcholines among the eight identified phospholipid classes was found to be significantly higher in the lipid extracts of blood microparticles.
Modeling sequential R&D investments: a binomial compound option approach
Authors: Hauschild Bastian , Reimsbach Daniel
Published: December 2014

In this paper, we propose a binomial approach to modeling sequential R&D investments. More specifically, we present a compound real options approach, simplifying the existing valuation methodology. Based upon the same set of assumptions as prior models, we show that the number of computational steps for valuing any compound option can be reduced to a single step. We demonstrate the applicability of our approach using the real-world example of valuing a new drug application. Overall, our work provides a heuristic framework for fostering the adoption of binomial compound option valuation techniques in R&D management.
Smoker's Recall of Fear Appeal Imagery: Examining the Effect of Fear Intensity and Fear Type
Authors: Rayner Ethan , Baxter Stacey M. , Ilicic Jasmina
Published: December 2014

This study examines the effect of fear intensity and type of fear on smokers’ recall of fear-based graphic stimuli. A 2 × 2 factorial design manipulates fear intensity (high vs. low) and fear type (physical vs. social). Results show high intensity messages promote superior recall, with recall heightening when the message also depicts physical harm. This study also shows that viewing time moderates the interaction effect of fear intensity and fear type on recall. Findings demonstrate that smokers report greater recall when exposed to highly intense messages that depict physical harm, with the effect only significant when viewing time is low. We argue that high intensity physical harm messages encourage greater message recall when viewed for only a short period due to shock arousal.
Proyección de demanda: ¡este problema no es normal!
Authors: Alonso Cifuentes Julio César , Gallo Córdoba Beatriz Eugenia
Published: December 2014

El objetivo de este caso es discutir sobre la aproximación adecuada para realizar predicciones cuando se emplea un modelo de regresión lineal con una forma semilogarítmica. Para ello, se contextualiza el problema de una firma que requiere realizar predicciones sobre las cantidades demandadas de su producto estrella. De esta manera, el lector se enfrenta al desafío de cuestionar si una aproximación aparentemente intuitiva genera pronósticos adecuados.
The bacterial cell division regulators MinD and MinC form polymers in the presence of nucleotide
Authors: Conti Joseph , Viola Marissa G. , Camberg Jodi L.
Published: December 2014

The Min system of proteins, consisting of MinC, MinD and MinE, is essential for normal cell division in Escherichia coli. MinC forms a polar gradient to restrict placement of the division septum to midcell. MinC localization occurs through a direct interaction with MinD, a membrane‐associating Par‐like ATPase. MinE stimulates ATP hydrolysis by MinD, thereby releasing MinD from the membrane. Here, we show that MinD forms polymers with MinC and ATP without the addition of phospholipids. The topological regulator MinE induces disassembly of MinCD polymers. Two MinD mutant proteins, MinD(K11A) and MinD(ΔMTS15), are unable to form polymers with MinC.
Glutamine synthetase isoforms in nitrogen‐fixing soybean nodules: Distinct oligomeric structures and thiol‐based regulation
Authors: Masalkar Pintu D. , Roberts Daniel M.
Published: December 2014

Legume root nodule glutamine synthetase (GS) catalyzes the assimilation of ammonia produced by nitrogen fixation. Two GS isoform subtypes (GS1β and GS1γ) are present in soybean nodules. GS1γ isoforms differ from GS1β isoforms in terms of their susceptibility to reversible inhibition by intersubunit disulfide bond formation between C159 and C92 at the shared active site at subunit interfaces. Although nodule GS enzymes share 86% amino acid sequence identity, analytical ultracentrifugation experiments showed that GS1γ is a dodecamer, whereas the GS1β is a decamer. It is proposed that this difference contributes to the differential thiol sensitivity of each isoform, and that GS1γ1 may be a target of thiol‐based regulation.
Alzheimer's disease risk variant in CLU is associated with neural inefficiency in healthy individuals
Authors: Lancaster Thomas M. , Brindley Lisa M. , Tansey Katherine E. , Sims Rebecca C. , Mantripragada Kiran , Owen Michael J. , Williams Julie , Linden David E.J.
Published: December 2014

Introduction

Genome‐wide association studies identify rs11136000 in the CLU gene, which codes for Apolipoprotein J/Clusterin, as a significant risk variant for Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the mechanisms by which this variant confers susceptibility remain relatively unknown.

Methods

Eighty‐five healthy Caucasian participants underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging during a working memory (WM) task and were genotyped for CLU rs11136000/APOE loci.

Results

Here we show that young individuals with the CLU rs11136000 risk variant (C) have higher activation levels in memory‐related prefrontal and limbic areas during a WM task. We also found subtle reductions in gray matter in the right hippocampal formation in carriers of the risk variant.

Discussion

We suggest that this pattern of multimodal imaging results may reflect incipient structural differences and inefficient functional activation. This study supports accumulating evidence suggesting that genetic risk for AD affects the neural networks associated with memory in healthy individuals.
High energy density physics research at IMP, Lanzhou, China
Authors: Zhao Yongtao , Cheng Rui , Wang Yuyu , Zhou Xianming , Lei Yu , Sun Yuanbo , Xu Ge , Ren Jieru , Sheng Lina , Zhang Zimin , Xiao Guoqing
Published: December 2014

Recent research activities relevant to high energy density physics (HEDP) driven by the heavy ion beam at the Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences are presented. Radiography of static objects with the fast extracted high energy carbon ion beam from the Cooling Storage Ring is discussed. Investigation of the low energy heavy ion beam and plasma interaction is reported. With HEDP research as one of the main goals, the project HIAF (High Intensity heavy-ion Accelerator Facility), proposed by the Institute of Modern Physics as the 12th five-year-plan of China, is introduced.
Childhood trauma and functional disability in psychosis, bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder: a review of the literature
Authors: Cotter J. , Kaess M. , Yung A. R.
Published: December 2014

Objectives

We aimed to examine the association between childhood trauma and functional impairment in psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder, to speculate on possible mechanisms that underlie this association and discuss the implications for clinical work.

Methods

Narrative review of the peer-reviewed English language literature in the area.

Results

High rates of childhood trauma in psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder were identified. This was associated with impaired social and occupational functioning in both the premorbid and established phases of each of these psychiatric disorders over and above the deficits typically observed in these populations. Possible mechanisms mediating this relationship include neurocognitive deficits, insecure attachment, higher rates of comorbidities and problems with adherence and response to treatment.

Conclusions

Routine clinical inquiry about childhood maltreatment should be adopted within mental health settings. This has potentially important treatment implications for identifying those individuals at elevated risk of functional disability. While there is no clear guidance currently available on how to target childhood trauma in the treatment of psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder or borderline personality disorder, there are several promising lines of enquiry and further research is warranted.
An Immersed Boundary Method Based on the Kinematic Relation of the Velocity-Vorticity Formulation
Authors: Farahbakhsh I. , Ghassemi H. , Sabetghadam F.
Published: December 2014

An immersed boundary method is proposed for the simulation of the interaction of an incompressible flow with rigid bodies. The method is based on a new interpretation of velocity-vorticity formulation and no longer includes the force term which is an essential issue of common immersed boundary methods. The system is considered in an Eulerian frame and retrieving the vorticity in this formulation enforces continuity at the fluid-solid interface and rigid motion of the solid. The method focuses on the mutual kinematic relations between the velocity and vorticity fields and with retrieving the vorticity field and recalculating the velocities yields the solenoidal velocity field. The method is applied to the two dimensional problems and the results show that the solenoidality is satisfied acceptably. The comparisons with 2D test cases are provided to illustrate the capabilities of the proposed method.
Nitric oxide involvement in the antidepressant-like effect of ketamine in the Flinders sensitive line rat model of depression
Authors: Liebenberg Nico , Joca Sâmia , Wegener Gregers
Published: December 2014

Objective

We investigated whether the nitric oxide (NO) precursor,l-arginine, can prevent the antidepressant-like action of the fast-acting antidepressant, ketamine, in a genetic rat model of depression, and/or induce changes in the glutamate (Glu)/N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR)/NO/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) signalling pathway. Hereby it was evaluated whether the NO signalling system is involved in the antidepressant mechanism of ketamine.

Methods

Flinders sensitive line (FSL) rats received single i.p. injections of ketamine (15 mg/kg) with/without pre-treatment (30 min prior) withl-arginine (500 mg/kg). Depression-like behaviour was assessed in the forced swim test (FST) in terms of immobility, and the activation state of the Glu/NMDAR/NO/cGMP pathway was evaluatedex vivoin the frontal cortex and hippocampus regions in terms of total constitutive NOS (cNOS) activity and cGMP concentration.

Results

l-Arginine pre-treatment prevented the antidepressant-like effect of ketamine in the FST, as well as a ketamine-induced increase in cGMP levels in the frontal cortex and hippocampus of FSL rats. Ketamine reduced cNOS activity only in the hippocampus, and this effect was not reversed byl-arginine.

Conclusion

Both the behavioural and molecular results from this study indicate an involvement for the NO signalling pathway in the antidepressant action of ketamine. Although not easily interpretable, these findings broaden our knowledge of effects of ketamine on the NO system.
Log del Pezzo Surfaces with Simple Automorphism Groups
Authors: Belousov Grigory
Published: December 2014

In the present paper we classify del Pezzo surfaces with log terminal singularities admitting an action of a finite simple group.
Three Principles for an Asian Humanities: Care First . . . Learn From . . . Connect Histories
Authors: Davis Donald R.
Published: December 2014

In order to express what is uniquely accomplished in the field, Asian studies should be reconceived as Asian humanities and should adhere to three principles: care first, learn from, and connect histories. A review of the history and criticisms of Asian studies as a field calls for a positive theoretical articulation of what the best scholarship in Asian studies does and has done. The principles advocated here are not exclusive to Asian studies and should be extended to all area studies fields, but they are offered as a way to understand Asian studies as an essential field of the university and the academy, unique because of its content but common in spirit with the humanities generally.
Loom bands and young children – a tragedy waiting to happen?
Authors: Bohler I R M , Douglas C , Ansari S
Published: December 2014

Background:

There has been a surge in the popularity of loom bands amongst children in recent months. These small rubber bands, which can be woven together to make colourful bracelets and necklaces, have become the world's most popular toy. Foreign bodies in paediatric nasal and aural cavities are a common presentation to ENT units across the country. Whilst most are removed without incident, foreign bodies in nasal passages represent a potential risk for inhalation, leading to airway obstruction.

Method:

This paper reports a case series of four paediatric patients who presented with a loom band associated foreign body in the nose over a 7-day period at a district general hospital in Scotland.

Conclusion:

Although the four cases presented were resolved without the need for general anaesthetic, the ever-soaring prevalence and popularity of loom bands necessitates a degree of caution and vigilance from parents, retailers and manufacturers alike. We believe there is an urgent need for greater public awareness of their potential hazards.
Transport properties of warm dense matter behind intense shock waves
Authors: Mintsev V. B. , Fortov V. E.
Published: December 2014

This report presents the overview of the results of investigation of transport properties of warm dense matter in the conditions with strong coupling generated as a result of the shock or multiple shock compression of substance up to the megabar pressure range. We consider the results of measurements of the electrical conductivity in two different regions. The first one is the high temperature region, where the temperatures are of the order or much higher than the ionization potential I of the compressed substance. The region of “pressure ionization” where T ≪ I is the most interesting from the point of view of the specific plasma phase transitions. A few amounts of experimental data on shock compressed matter viscosity are discussed. For the estimations of shear viscosity of strongly coupled plasma experimental data on measurements of electrical conductivity of hydrogen, deuterium and rare gases under intense shock compression were used. It is shown that the ratio of shear viscosity coefficient to volume density of entropy of strongly coupled plasma is of the order of a lower bound, predicted by Kovtun et al. (2005) in frames of string theory methods.
Data, Data Everywhere
Authors: Bradley Phil
Published: December 2014

This paper that is written by Phil Bradley is based on his keynote lecture, which he gave on 12 June 2014 at the BIALL Annual Conference. He considers the growth of information on the internet, both in terms of type and amount. His article considers the difficulties that this flood of data brings with it, the challenges facing traditional search engines when faced with access by mobile devices and applications. The role of privacy and the ‘internet of things’ are also discussed. Finally, there is an overview of the role of the information professional in this new information environment.
Big Data and the Implications for Government
Authors: Williamson Andy
Published: December 2014

Big data is more than the sum of the parts; it is about scale but also how we inter-connect once disparate data sets, and mine and analyse them. It is something that has started to make a significant impact everywhere from financial markets to supermarkets. And, as Andy Williamson explains, it is starting to become an important factor in the development of public policy and for the delivery and analysis of public services. Big data offers us powerful new ways to see the world around us but this comes with the challenges of ownership, privacy and misuse: it can be used for good or to constrain people. We have to ensure that, as the uptake of big data increases, our legislation and practice keeps pace, ensuring that mistakes and misuse are prevented.
Mapping Functional Connectivity Using Cerebral Blood Flow in the Mouse Brain
Authors: Bergonzi Karla M , Bauer Adam Q , Wright Patrick W , Culver Joseph P
Published: December 2014

Brain function can be assessed from resting-state functional connectivity (rs-fc) maps, most commonly created by analyzing the dynamics of cerebral hemoglobin concentration. Here, we develop the use of Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging (LSCI) for mapping rs-fc using cerebral blood flow (CBF) dynamics. Because LSCI is intrinsically noisy, we used spatial and temporal averaging to sufficiently raise the signal-to-noise ratio for observing robust functional networks. Although CBF-based rs-fc maps in healthy mice are qualitatively similar to simultaneously-acquired [HbO2]-based maps, some quantitative regional differences were observed. These combined flow/concentration maps might help clarify mechanisms involved in network disruption during disease.
The Effects of Transit Time Heterogeneity on Brain Oxygenation during Rest and Functional Activation
Authors: Rasmussen Peter M , Jespersen Sune N , Østergaard Leif
Published: December 2014

The interpretation of regional blood flow and blood oxygenation changes during functional activation has evolved from the concept of ‘neurovascular coupling’, and hence the regulation of arteriolar tone to meet metabolic demands. The efficacy of oxygen extraction was recently shown to depend on the heterogeneity of capillary flow patterns downstream. Existing compartment models of the relation between tissue metabolism, blood flow, and blood oxygenation, however, typically assume homogenous microvascular flow patterns. To take capillary flow heterogeneity into account, we modeled the effect of capillary transit time heterogeneity (CTH) on the ‘oxygen conductance’ used in compartment models. We show that the incorporation of realistic reductions in CTH during functional hyperemia improves model fits to dynamic blood flow and oxygenation changes acquired during functional activation in a literature animal study. Our results support earlier observations that oxygen diffusion properties seemingly change during various physiologic stimuli, and posit that this phenomenon is related to parallel changes in capillary flow patterns. Furthermore, our results suggest that CTH must be taken into account when inferring brain metabolism from changes in blood flow- or blood oxygenation-based signals .
Hydrogen Sulfide Inhalation Decreases Early Blood—Brain Barrier Permeability and Brain Edema Induced by Cardiac Arrest and Resuscitation
Authors: Geng Yingjie , Li Eerdunmutu , Mu Qier , Zhang Yu , Wei Xia , Li Hangbing , Cheng Long , Zhang Bing
Published: December 2014

The effects of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) on blood—brain barrier (BBB) and brain edema after cardiac arrest (CA) and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) remain poorly understood. We investigated the effects of exogenous 80-p.p.m. H2S gas on BBB, brain water content, neurologic outcome, and survival rate after CA and CPR. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation followed CA induced in rats by ventricular fibrillation for 6 minutes. Results show that inhalation of 80-p.p.m. H2S significantly reduced the permeability of the BBB in both in the cortex and hippocampus at 24 hours after resuscitation. Hydrogen sulfide also lessened brain edema in the cortex and hippocampus, ameliorated neurologic outcome as evaluated by neurologic deficit score and tape removal test, and improved the 14-day survival rate. Hydrogen sulfide also attenuated CA and CPR-induced increases of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression, and increased the expression of angiogenin-1 (Ang-1). These results indicate that inhalation of 80-p.p.m. H2S immediately after CPR attenuated BBB permeability and brain edema, and improved neurologic outcome and 14-day survival of rats after CA. The therapeutic benefits of H2S could be associated with suppression of MMP-9 and VEGF expression and increased expression of Ang-1.
Visualization of Freezing Process in situ upon Cooling and Warming of Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Bogdan Anatoli , Molina Mario J. , Tenhu Heikki , Bertel Erminald , Bogdan Natalia , Loerting Thomas
Published: December 2014

The freezing of aqueous solutions and reciprocal distribution of ice and a freeze-concentrated solution (FCS) are poorly understood in spite of their importance in fields ranging from biotechnology and life sciences to geophysics and climate change. Using an optical cryo-miscroscope and differential scanning calorimetry, we demonstrate that upon cooling of citric acid and sucrose solutions a fast freezing process results in a continuous ice framework (IF) and two freeze-concentrated solution regions of different concentrations, FCS1 and FCS2. The FCS1 is maximally freeze-concentrated and interweaves with IF. The less concentrated FCS2 envelops the entire IF/FCS1. We find that upon further cooling, the FCS1 transforms to glass, whereas the slow freezing of FCS2 continues until it is terminated by a FCS2-glass transition. We observe the resumed slow freezing of FCS2 upon subsequent warming. The net thermal effect of the resumed freezing and a reverse glass-FCS1 transition produces the Ttr2-transition which before has only been observed upon warming of frozen hydrocarbon solutions and which nature has remained misunderstood for decades.
Label-free and real-time imaging of dehydration-induced DNA conformational changes in cellular nucleus using second harmonic microscopy
Authors: Zhuo Shuangmu , Ni Ming
Published: December 2014

Dehydration-induced DNA conformational changes have been probed for the first time with the use of second harmonic microscopy. Unlike conventional approaches, second harmonic microscopy provides a label-free and real-time approach to detect DNA conformational changes. Upon dehydration, cellular DNA undergoes a transition from B- to A-form, whereas cellular nuclei change from invisible to visible under second harmonic microscopy. These results showed that DNA is a second order nonlinear optical material. We further confirmed this by characterizing the nonlinear optical properties of extracted DNA from human cells. Our findings open a new path for SHG imaging. DNA can change its conformations under many circumstances. For example: normal cells turning into cancerous cells and drug molecules binding with DNA. Therefore, the detection of DNA conformational changes with second harmonic microscopy will be a useful tool in cancer therapy and new drug discovery.
Tandem mass spectrometry and ion mobility mass spectrometry for the analysis of molecular sequence and architecture of hyperbranched glycopolymers
Authors: Liu Xiumin , Cool Lydia R. , Lin Kenneth , Kasko Andrea M. , Wesdemiotis Chrys
Published: December 2014

Multidimensional mass spectrometry methods reveal stoichiometry, sequence and branching architecture of acrylate based glycopolymers formed by ATRP.
Triazolo-β-aza-ε-amino acid and its aromatic analogue as novel scaffolds for β-turn peptidomimetics
Authors: Bag Subhendu Sekhar , Jana Subhashis , Yashmeen Afsana , De Suranjan
Published: December 2014

Triazolo-β-aza-ε-amino acid and its aromatic analogue (AlTAA/ArTAA) in the peptide backbone mark a novel class of conformationally constrained molecular scaffolds to induce β-turn conformations. This was demonstrated in a Leu-enkephalin analogue and in other designed peptides.
Self-organization of star-shaped columnar liquid crystals with a coaxial nanophase segregation revealed by a combined experimental and simulation approach
Authors: Beltrán Eduardo , Garzoni Matteo , Feringán Beatriz , Vancheri Alberto , Barberá Joaquín , Serrano José Luis , Pavan Giovanni M. , Giménez Raquel , Sierra Teresa
Published: December 2014

Coaxial stacking of two different functional units revealed by combining X-ray and MD simulation.
Bulk graphdiyne powder applied for highly efficient lithium storage
Authors: Zhang Shengliang , Liu Huibiao , Huang Changshui , Cui Guanglei , Li Yuliang
Published: December 2014

Bulk graphdiyne powder with porous structure was synthesized and applied for highly efficient lithium storage, exhibiting excellent electrochemical performance.
One-step synthesis of magnetic hollow mesoporous silica (MHMS) nanospheres for drug delivery nanosystems via electrostatic self-assembly templated approach
Authors: Liu Fang , Wang Jingnan , Cao Qingyun , Deng Haidong , Shao Guang , Deng David Y. B. , Zhou Wuyi
Published: December 2014

Yolk–shell magnetic hollow mesoporous silica nanospheres were synthesized in one-step via electrostatic self-assembly for controlled release in diagnosis and therapy.
Construction of tetralin skeletons based on rhodium-catalysed site-selective ring opening of benzocyclobutenols
Authors: Ishida Naoki , Ishikawa Norikazu , Sawano Shota , Masuda Yusuke , Murakami Masahiro
Published: December 2014

A rhodium complex induces site-selective alkene insertion into the C(sp2)–C(sp3) bond of benzocyclobutenols to furnish tetralins diastereoselectively.
Interaction of Aβ peptide with tubulin causes an inhibition of tubulin polymerization and the apoptotic death of cancer cells
Authors: Saha Abhijit , Mohapatra Saswat , Kurkute Prashant , Jana Batakrishna , Mondal Prasenjit , Bhunia Debmalya , Ghosh Subhajit , Ghosh Surajit
Published: December 2014

The Aβ peptide interacts with tubulin close to the vinblastine and GTP/GDP binding site, inhibits the tubulin polymerization rate, induces tubulin aggregation and causes the apoptotic death of A549, HeLa and MCF7 cells.
Nanoparticle–electrode collisions as a dynamic seeding route for the growth of metallic nanostructures
Authors: Pearson Andrew , O'Mullane Anthony P.
Published: December 2014

The collisions between colloidal metal nanoparticles and a carbon electrode were explored as a dynamic method for the electrodeposition of a diverse range of electrocatalytically active Ag and Au nanostructures whose morphology is dominated by the electrostatic interaction between the charge of the nanoparticle and metal salt.
Atomic force microscopy in biomaterials surface science
Authors: Variola Fabio
Published: December 2014

The atomic force microscope (AFM) is a powerful toolbox to unveil how proteins, cells and bacteria interact with biomaterials.
Ion association in aqueous and non-aqueous solutions probed by diffusion and electrophoretic NMR
Authors: Giesecke Marianne , Mériguet Guillaume , Hallberg Fredrik , Fang Yuan , Stilbs Peter , Furó István
Published: December 2014

The results of diffusion and electrophoretic NMR (eNMR) measurements are reported for a series of tetramethylammonium (TMA) electrolytes (with sulphate, fluoride, acetate, chloride, bromide, nitrate, iodide and perchlorate as anions) in deuterated solvents such as water, dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO), acetonitrile, methanol and ethanol.
A near field optical image of a gold surface: a luminescence study
Authors: Merlen A. , Plathier J. , Ruediger A.
Published: December 2014

We have used the luminescence from a gold tip to study the optical near field properties of a gold surface.
Evaluation of berberine/bovine serum albumin nanoparticles for liver fibrosis therapy
Authors: Lam P.-L. , Kok S. H.-L. , Gambari R. , Kok T.-W. , Leung H.-Y. , Choi K.-L. , Wong C.-S. , Hau D. K.-P. , Wong W.-Y. , Lam K. H. , Bian Z.-X. , Lee K. K.-H. , Chui C.-H.
Published: December 2014

Use of non-hazardous materials in pharmaceutical formulation avoids the emergence of toxic potential to the environment.
Copper isotope effect in serum of cancer patients. A pilot study
Authors: Télouk Philippe , Puisieux Alain , Fujii Toshiyuki , Balter Vincent , Bondanese Victor P. , Morel Anne-Pierre , Clapisson Gilles , Lamboux Aline , Albarede Francis
Published: December 2014

Lower65Cu/63Cu ratios in the serum of colorectal and breast cancer patients relative to healthy individuals have potential diagnostic value.
Fluorescent silica nanoparticles modified chemically with terbium complexes as potential bioimaging probes: their fluorescence and colloidal properties in water
Authors: Nakahara Yoshio , Tatsumi Yoichi , Akimoto Ikuko , Osaki Shusuke , Doi Motomichi , Kimura Keiichi
Published: December 2014

Highly fluorescent silica nanoparticles were synthesized using silylated terbium complexes, which were prepared easily through formation of a Schiff base.
Slow magnetic relaxation and photoluminescent properties of a highly coordinated erbium(iii) complex with dibenzoylmethane and 2,2′-bipyridine
Authors: Martín-Ramos Pablo , Coutinho Joana T. , Ramos Silva Manuela , Pereira Laura C. J. , Lahoz Fernando , da Silva Pedro S. Pereira , Lavín Víctor , Martín-Gil Jesús
Published: December 2014

The luminescence and magnetic properties of a bifunctional highly coordinated Er(iii) β-diketonate complex are presented, together with its synthesis and structure.
A metal–metal bond passing through the arene ligand: a theoretical study on inverse sandwiches X[Sc–C8H8–Sc]nX (X = F, Cl, Br; n = 1, 2)
Authors: Liu Nan-nan , Ding Yi-hong
Published: December 2014

In X[Sc–C8H8–Sc]2X (X = F–Br), Sc–Sc bonds between two [Sc–C8H8–Sc] units and the Sc–Sc bond through C8H8form the uninterrupted Sc–Sc–Sc–Sc bond-chain.
A flexible spiral-type supercapacitor based on ZnCo2O4nanorod electrodes
Authors: Wu Hao , Lou Zheng , Yang Hong , Shen Guozhen
Published: December 2014

Fiber electrochemical capacitors show advantages such as light weight and flexibility, and may also be easily integrated or woven into various electronic devices with low cost and high efficiency.
Graphdiyne–metal contacts and graphdiyne transistors
Authors: Pan Yuanyuan , Wang Yangyang , Wang Lu , Zhong Hongxia , Quhe Ruge , Ni Zeyuan , Ye Meng , Mei Wai-Ning , Shi Junjie , Guo Wanlin , Yang Jinbo , Lu Jing
Published: December 2014

Graphdiyne-metal contacts were systematically studied for the first time theoretically. The simulated graphdiyne transistor exhibits an on–off ratio of 104.
Recent advances in development of imidazo[1,2-a]pyrazines: synthesis, reactivity and their biological applications
Authors: Goel Richa , Luxami Vijay , Paul Kamaldeep
Published: December 2014

The synthesis, reactivity and multifarious biological activities at the different positions of imidazo[1,2-a]pyrazines are concisely discussed in this review.
β-Ketothioamides: efficient reagents in the synthesis of heterocycles
Authors: Guo Wei-Si , Wen Li-Rong , Li Ming
Published: December 2014

β-Ketothioamides (KTAs) are versatile building blocks for the rapid construction of various heterocyclic compounds.
Bacterial patterning controlled by light exposure
Authors: Velema Willem A. , van der Berg Jan Pieter , Szymanski Wiktor , Driessen Arnold J. M. , Feringa Ben L.
Published: December 2014

Patterning of multiple bacterial strains in one system is achieved by employing a single photo-activated antibiotic.
Homopolymer bifunctionalization through sequential thiol–epoxy and esterification reactions: an optimization, quantification, and structural elucidation study
Authors: Gadwal Ikhlas , Stuparu Mihaiela C. , Khan Anzar
Published: December 2014

In this study, we probe various aspects of a post-polymerization double-modification strategy involving sequential thiol–epoxy and esterification reactions for the preparation of dual-functional homopolymers.
Synthesis and self-assembly of poly(ferrocenyldimethylsilane)-block-poly(2-alkyl-2-oxazoline) block copolymers
Authors: Rudolph Tobias , Nunns Adam , Schwenke Almut M. , Schacher Felix H.
Published: December 2014

The synthesis and self-assembly of organometallic poly(ferrocenyldimethylsilane)-block-poly(2-alkyl-2-oxazoline) (PFDMS-b-POx) diblock copolymers of different weight fractions in the bulk and in solution is investigated.
Reaction of N-heterocyclic carbenes with 13-vertex closo-carboranes: synthesis and structural characterization of zwitterionic salts of 13-vertex nido-carboranes
Authors: Zheng Fangrui , Xie Zuowei
Published: December 2014

13-Vertexcloso-carboranes and N-heterocyclic carbenes undergo a fast acid–base reaction to generate intermediates that are slowly converted to the final products.
Feasible nonaqueous route to synthesize a high-voltage spinel cathode material for lithium ion batteries
Authors: Jin Yi-Chun , Duh Jenq-Gong
Published: December 2014

A new non-aqueous solvent system is applied to synthesis the high voltage spinel cathode. After assisting of polymeric surfactants, a highly-crystalline and impurity-free powder is successfully fabricated with a significantly reduced particle size.
CuSO4-H-phosphonate catalyzed highly stereo- and regioselective dimerization of terminal alkynes
Authors: Li Xu , Chen Xiao-Lan , Zhang Qing , Qu Ling-Bo , Bi Wen-Zhu , Sun Kai , Chen Jian-Yu , Chen Xin , Zhao Yu-Fen
Published: December 2014

The readily available CuSO4-H-phosphonate catalytic system can catalyze the head-to-head dimerization of terminal alkynes to give the corresponding (E) conjugated enynes selectively in high yield.