bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Seminal Plasma PSP‐I/PSP‐II Spermadhesin Modulate the Ability of Boar Spermatozoa to Penetrate Homologous Oocytes In Vitro?
Authors: Caballero Ignacio , Vazquez Juan M. , Gil Maria A. , Calvete Juan J. , Roca Jordi , Sanz Libia , Parrilla Inmaculada , Garcia Eva M. , Rodriguez‐Martinez Heriberto , Martinez Emilio A.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Low concentration (0.15 mg per million of spermatozoa) of seminal plasma‐derived PSP‐I/PSP‐II spermadhesin heterodimer is able to preserve the viability of highly extended boar spermatozoa. Whether spermatozoa also keep their fertilizing capacity is not yet known. The present study evaluated the effect of exposing freshly extended and frozen‐thawed boar spermatozoa (10 million/mL) to PSP‐I/PSP‐II (1.5 mg/mL) for 30 or 120 minutes on sperm characteristics and the outcome of in vitro penetration of immature (IM) and in vitro matured (IVM) homologous oocytes, aiming to identify this spermadhesin as a suitable modulator for sperm‐handling protocols. Although exposure to the heterodimer improved sperm viability and motility without increasing the levels of sperm acrosome exocytosis in both freshly extended and frozen‐thawed spermatozoa, this pretreatment did not affect sperm penetration rates or sperm numbers per oocyte when pretreated fresh spermatozoa were coincubated with IM or IVM oocytes compared with controls. When cryopreserved spermatozoa were tested, however, on IVM oocytes, already a 30‐minute preincubation exposure to PSP‐I/PSP‐II showed a significant blocking effect on penetration rate (from 90% to 32%, P < .05) and on mean sperm numbers per oocyte (2.9 to 1.6, P < .05). To disclose the nature of this paradox, frozen‐thawed spermatozoa were cleansed (by centrifugation in saline bovine serum albumin or through Percoll density gradient separation) and the procedure repeated. Oocyte penetration (but not number of spermatozoa per oocyte) increased (P < .05) when spermatozoa were cleansed with Percoll compared with either washed or unwashed controls (53% vs 13% vs 31%, respectively). In addition, the percentages of polyspermic oocytes remained lower than control (38.5% vs 68.7%, respectively; P < .05). In conclusion, the results confirm that exposure of fresh or frozen‐thawed boar spermatozoa to a low dose of seminal PSP‐I/PSP‐II spermadhesin preserves sperm viability and motility in vitro. Although there was no obvious influence of the heterodimer on the capability of freshly extended boar spermatozoa to penetrate homologous oocytes (either IM or IVM), PSP‐I/PSP‐II exerted a deleterious effect when frozen‐thawed spermatozoa were used to penetrate IVM oocytes. Such an effect of cryopreservation seems to a certain extent reversible, since cleansing of the sperm surface decreased, at least partially, this blocking effect, increasing both penetration and the monospermic rates.
Rho‐kinase Inhibition Improves Erectile Function in Aging Male Brown‐Norway Rats
Authors: Rajasekaran Mahadevan , White Steven , Baquir Angelo , Wilkes Nathan
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Physiological aging is a significant risk factor in the on‐set of male erectile dysfunction (ED) and an imbalance in factors that modulate cavernosal smooth‐muscle tone may play a role in these altered penile hemodynamic mechanisms. To evaluate the association between aging and male erectile function, we monitored neurogenic erectile response and its correlation to systemic arterial pressure changes in old (21–23 months of age) vs young (6–9 months of age) Brown‐Norway (BN) rats. We tested the hypothesis that age‐associated ED is due to unregulated vasoconstrictive tone, contributed in part by an increased Rho‐kinase activity, and that antagonism of Rho‐kinase activity attenuates the age‐related decline in male erectile function. We also examined the hypothesis that a combination of Rho‐kinase antagonism and phosphodiesterase‐5 (PDE‐5) inhibition has a synergistic effect in improving the erectile response in these aging animals. Erectile function in old BN rats was evaluated before and after intracavernosal injection of a specific inhibitor of Rho‐kinase (Y‐27632) alone or in combination with zaprinast, a PDE‐5 inhibitor. Erectile capabilities of the young and old BN rat groups were significantly different in corpus cavernosum pressure response after electrical‐field stimulation of the major pelvic ganglion. Y‐27632 administration attenuated the aging‐related changes in male erectile function seen in BN rats. Rho‐kinase antagonism and PDE‐5 inhibition had a synergistic effect in improving erectile function in old rats. Our data indicate that aging leads to impairment in the neurogenic erectile response in BN rats involving a possible derangement in penile hemodynamic mechanisms of the erectile tissue. Rho‐kinase inhibition may be of value in treating age‐related ED.
Adipocyte Accumulation in Penile Corpus Cavernosum of the Orchiectomized Rabbit: A Potential Mechanism for Veno‐occlusive Dysfunction in Androgen Deficiency
Authors: Traish Abdulmaged M. , Toselli Paul , Jeong Seong‐Joo , Kim Noel N.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Androgens are deemed to be critical for the development, growth, and maintenance of penile tissue as well as for erectile function. Androgens are also reported to inhibit differentiation of stroma progenitor cells into adipocytes and promote differentiation into smooth muscle. The objective of this study was to investigate whether androgen deprivation results in accumulation of adipocytes in the corpus cavernosum. Mature, New Zealand white male rabbits were subjected to sham surgery (control) or orchiectomy. Two weeks after surgery, erectile function was assessed by monitoring changes in intracavernosal blood pressure (ICP) in response to pelvic nerve stimulation. All ICP measurements were normalized to the mean systemic arterial blood pressure. In parallel studies, penile cross sections from control and orchiectomized rabbits were fixed and stained with either Masson's trichrome or hematoxylin and eosin to assess smooth muscle and connective tissue content. Alternatively, tissue sections were stained with Toluidine blue to assess accumulation of fat‐containing cells. Orchiectomy resulted in loss of erectile function and penile atrophy, associated with reduced trabecular smooth muscle and increased connective tissue content. Most strikingly, tissue from orchiectomized animals exhibited accumulation of fat‐containing cells (adipocytes) in the subtunical region of the corpus cavernosum. We hypothesize that androgen deprivation promotes differentiation of progenitor stroma cells into an adipogenic lineage producing fat‐containing cells, thus altering erectile function.
An Endogenous Nuclease in Hamster, Mouse, and Human Spermatozoa Cleaves DNA into Loop‐Sized Fragments
Authors: Sotolongo Barbara , Huang Thomas T. F. , Isenberger Elisabete , Ward W. Steven
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Recent work from our laboratory provided evidence for the existence of a nuclease in hamster spermatozoa. This endogenous nuclease cleaves sperm chromatin at the bases of DNA loop domains into large fragments with an average size of roughly 50 kb. Here, we demonstrate that this sperm nuclease is present in the sperm nucleus and that it is activated by the presence of both calcium and magnesium much more efficiently than with either ion alone, resulting in DNA degradation in 30 minutes. We also show that similar nucleases are present in mouse and human spermatozoa. The human nuclease can be activated by freeze‐thawing spermatozoa in noncryoprotective media. The activity of the sperm nuclease in all 3 species resembles that of a group of somatic cell DNAses that also require both calcium and magnesium and that digest the chromatin into loop‐sized fragments during apoptosis.
Possible relation of the western North Pacific monsoon to the tropical cyclone activity over western North Pacific
Authors: Choi Jae‐Won , Kim Baek‐Jo , Zhang Renhe , Park Ki‐Jun , Kim Jeoung‐Yun , Cha Yumi , Nam Jae‐Cheol
Published: December 2015

This study examined the relationship between the western North Pacific monsoon (WNPM) and the tropical cyclone (TC) activity over western North Pacific during the summer (June to August) in a period from 1977 to 2013. According to the western North Pacific monsoon index (WNPMI), 10 years with high indices (referred to as the positive WNPMI phase) and 10 years with low indices (referred to as the negative WNPMI phase) were chosen. TCs frequently formed in the southeast quadrant of the subtropical western North Pacific in the positive WNPMI phase, and in the northwest quadrant in the negative phase. With respect to the TC track, TCs tended to move northward from the distant sea off the east coast of the Philippines towards Korea and Japan past the East China Sea in the positive WNPMI phase, whereas the characteristic pattern of the negative phase was the TC movement from the Philippines to southern China and the Indochinese peninsula over the South China Sea. As for the TC intensity, the TCs were stronger in the positive WNPMI phase than in the negative WNPMI phase. The anomalous cyclonic circulations in the south of the 30°N signified strong convection, causing the high TC genesis frequency in the positive WNPMI phase. In addition, the East China Sea, Korea and Japan were shown to be influenced by the anomalous southeasterly, which contributed as the anomalous steering flows and was favourable for the TCs to move into these regions in the positive WNPMI phase. Meanwhile, the positive anomaly of 600 hPa relative humidity and sea surface temperature as well as the negative anomaly of vertical wind shear presented in most regions of the subtropical western North Pacific, creating an environment that facilitated the generation of TCs in the positive WNPMI phase.
BOOK REVIEW
Authors: Plante Craig
Published: December 2015

MCLUSKY, DONALD S., and MICHAEL ELLIOT. 2004. The Estuarine Ecosystem: Ecology, Threats and Management Third Edition. Oxford University Press. ISBN 0‐19‐853091‐9 (hardcover). viii + 214 p. US $130.
Proteogenomics from a bioinformatics angle: A growing field
Authors: Menschaert Gerben , Fenyö David
Published: December 2015

Proteogenomics is a research area that combines areas as proteomics and genomics in a multi‐omics setup using both mass spectrometry and high‐throughput sequencing technologies. Currently, the main goals of the field are to aid genome annotation or to unravel the proteome complexity. Mass spectrometry based identifications of matching or homologues peptides can further refine gene models. Also, the identification of novel proteoforms is also made possible based on detection of novel translation initiation sites (cognate or near‐cognate), novel transcript isoforms, sequence variation or novel (small) open reading frames in intergenic or un‐translated genic regions by analyzing high‐throughput sequencing data from RNAseq or ribosome profiling experiments. Other proteogenomics studies using a combination of proteomics and genomics techniques focus on antibody sequencing, the identification of immunogenic peptides or venom peptides. Over the years, a growing amount of bioinformatics tools and databases became available to help streamlining these cross‐omics studies. Some of these solutions only help in specific steps of the proteogenomics studies, e.g. building custom sequence databases (based on next generation sequencing output) for mass spectrometry fragmentation spectrum matching. Over the last few years a handful integrative tools also became available that can execute complete proteogenomics analyses. Some of these are presented as stand‐alone solutions, whereas others are implemented in a web‐based framework such as Galaxy. In this review we aimed at sketching a comprehensive overview of all the bioinformatics solutions that are available for this growing research area. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Mass Spec Rev 36:584–599, 2017
Chemo‐mechanics of cemented granular solids subjected to precipitation and dissolution of mineral species
Authors: Buscarnera Giuseppe , Das Arghya
Published: December 2015

This paper studies the chemo‐mechanics of cemented granular solids in the context of continuum thermodynamics for fluid‐saturated porous media. For this purpose, an existing constitutive model formulated in the frame of the Breakage Mechanics theory is augmented to cope with reactive processes. Chemical state variables accounting for the reactions between the solid constituents and the solutes in the pore fluid are introduced to enrich the interactions among the microstructural units simulated by the model (i.e., grains and cement bonds). Two different reactive processes are studied (i.e., grain dissolution and cement precipitation), using the chemical variables to describe the progression of the reactions and track changes in the size of grains and bonds. Finally, a homogenization strategy is used to derive the energy potentials of the solid mixture, adopting probability density functions that depend on both mechanical and chemical indices. It is shown that the connection between the statistics of the micro‐scale attributes and the continuum properties of the solid enables the mathematical capture of numerous mechanical effects of lithification and chemical deterioration, such as changes in stiffness, expansion/contraction of the elastic domain, and development of inelastic strains during reaction. In particular, the model offers an interpretation of the plastic strains generated by aggressive environments, which are here interpreted as an outcome of chemically driven debonding and comminution. As a result, the model explains widely observed macroscopic signatures of geomaterial degradation by reconciling the energetics of the deformation/reaction processes with the evolving geometry of the microstructural attributes. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Whole‐brain perfusion imaging with balanced steady‐state free precession arterial spin labeling
Authors: Han Paul Kyu , Ye Jong Chul , Kim Eung Yeop , Choi Seung Hong , Park Sung‐Hong
Published: December 2015

Recently, balanced steady‐state free precession (bSSFP) readout has been proposed for arterial spin labeling (ASL) perfusion imaging to reduce susceptibility artifacts at a relatively high spatial resolution and signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR). However, the main limitation of bSSFP‐ASL is the low spatial coverage. In this work, methods to increase the spatial coverage of bSSFP‐ASL are proposed for distortion‐free, high‐resolution, whole‐brain perfusion imaging. Three strategies of (i) segmentation, (ii) compressed sensing (CS) and (iii) a hybrid approach combining the two methods were tested to increase the spatial coverage of pseudo‐continuous ASL (pCASL) with three‐dimensional bSSFP readout. The spatial coverage was increased by factors of two, four and six using each of the three approaches, whilst maintaining the same total scan time (5.3 min). The number of segments and/or CS acceleration rate (R) correspondingly increased to maintain the same bSSFP readout time (1.2 s). The segmentation approach allowed whole‐brain perfusion imaging for pCASL‐bSSFP with no penalty in SNR and/or total scan time. The CS approach increased the spatial coverage of pCASL‐bSSFP whilst maintaining the temporal resolution, with minimal impact on the image quality. The hybrid approach provided compromised effects between the two methods. Balanced SSFP‐based ASL allows the acquisition of perfusion images with wide spatial coverage, high spatial resolution and SNR, and reduced susceptibility artifacts, and thus may become a good choice for clinical and neurological studies. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mechanical, thermal and barrier properties of pectin/cellulose nanocrystal nanocomposite films and their effect on the storability of strawberries (Fragaria ananassa)
Authors: da Silva Ingrid Souza Vieira , Neto Wilson Pires Flauzino , Silvério Hudson Alves , Pasquini Daniel , Zeni Andrade Mara , Otaguro Harumi
Published: December 2015

In this work, two formulations of pectin/cellulose nanocrystals/glycerol nanocomposites were employed as packaging to extend storage life of strawberries. The effects of incorporating cellulose nanocrystals extracted from bleached Kraft wood pulp on the mechanical, thermal, and barrier properties of pectin‐based nanocomposites were evaluated. Nanocomposite films with different filler levels of cellulose nanocrystals (1, 2, 4 and 8% w/w) were prepared by casting. Compared with the neat film of pectin, improvements in the mechanical properties of the nanocomposites were observed, but these films became fragile. To improve the film flexibility, glycerol was added as a plasticizer and then new variations in the mechanical, thermal, and barrier properties of these nanocomposites were evaluated. The effects of nanocomposite films on storability of strawberries were compared with Poly vinyl chloride packaging films. The Poly vinyl chloride film and the nanocomposites showed similar behavior regarding weight loss by the strawberries, especially in the initial days of storage. The results show that pectin/cellulose nanocrystals/glycerol nanocomposites could be considered as a viable packaging alternative for replaced the Poly vinyl cloride film. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exchange Transfusion and Leukapheresis in Pediatric Patients with AML With High Risk of Early Death by Bleeding and Leukostasis
Authors: Creutzig Ursula , Rössig Claudia , Dworzak Michael , Stary Jan , von Stackelberg Arend , Wössmann Wilhelm , Zimmermann Martin , Reinhardt Dirk
Published: December 2015

Background

The risk of early death (ED) by bleeding/leukostasis is high in patients with AML with hyperleukocytosis (>100,000/μl). Within the pediatric AML‐BFM (Berlin‐Frankfurt‐Münster) 98/04 studies, emergency strategies for these children included exchange transfusion (ET) or leukapheresis (LPh). Risk factors for ED and interventions performed were analyzed.

Patients

Two hundred thirty‐eight of 1,251 (19%) patients with AML presented with hyperleukocytosis; 23 of 1,251 (1.8%) patients died of bleeding/leukostasis.

Results

ED due to bleeding/leukostasis was highest at white blood cell (WBC) count >200,000/μl (14.3%). ED rates were even higher (20%) in patients with FAB (French‐American‐British) M4/M5 and hyperleukocytosis >200,000/μl. Patients with WBC >200,000/μl did slightly better with ET/LPh compared to those without ET/LPh (ED rate 7.5% vs. 21.2%, P = 0.055). Multivariate WBC >200,000/μl was of strongest prognostic significance for ED (P(χ2) <0.0001).

Conclusion

Our data confirm the high risk of bleeding/leukostasis in patients with hyperleukocytosis. ET/LPh shows a trend toward reduced ED rate due to bleeding/leukostasis and is recommended at WBC >200,000/μl, and in FAB M4/M5 even at lower WBC.
Role of Second Transplantation for Children With Acute Myeloid Leukemia Following Posttransplantation Relapse
Authors: Taga Takashi , Murakami Yoshitaka , Tabuchi Ken , Adachi Souichi , Tomizawa Daisuke , Kojima Yasuko , Kato Koji , Koike Kazutoshi , Koh Katsuyoshi , Kajiwara Ryosuke , Hamamoto Kazuko , Yabe Hiromasa , Kawa Keisei , Atsuta Yoshiko , Kudo Kazuko
Published: December 2015

Background

In children with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in first remission is indicated for patients with a relatively high risk of relapse. Second HSCT is a curative option; however, few reports have been published about a second HSCT in children for AML with posttransplantation relapse.

Procedure

Using the database provided by the Japanese Society of Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, we analyzed 46 children with AML who underwent a second allogeneic HSCT after achieving a second remission.

Results

The median duration from the first to second HSCT was 20 months, and the source of the second HSCT was related bone marrow (BM) in 22, related peripheral blood in 6, unrelated BM in 14, and unrelated cord blood in 4 patients. Twenty‐five children eventually died of the following causes: progressive disease in 14 and transplant‐related toxicities in 9. The 5‐year overall survival rate was 41.7 ± 7.7%. An interval of less than 24 months between the first and second HSCT was a significant poor prognostic factor.

Conclusions

Children with AML who experience a relapse after HSCT in first remission have a good chance of survival with a second HSCT if a second remission is achieved.
Characterization of bio‐filler derived from seashell wastes and its effect on the mechanical, thermal, and flame retardant properties of ABS composites
Authors: Moustafa Hesham , Youssef Ahmed M. , Duquesne Sophie , Darwish Nabila. A.
Published: December 2015

The seashell is mainly composed of calcium carbonate and organic materials which, when decompose, produce harmful gases with significant odor and toxicity. Therefore, their wastes are considered to be a problem and could be hazardous to human. To overcome this problem, this study proposed to use grinded seashell wastes (SS) as a bio‐filler to reinforce acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene copolymer (ABS). Commercial calcium carbonate, CaCO3 (CC) was also used to compare the results. The filler and their composites were characterized by X‐ray Fluorescence (XRF), X‐ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), and Cone Calorimeter. DMA data show that the addition of low amounts of seashell bio‐filler to ABS increases the storage modulus (E′). The glass transition temperature (Tg) values are shifted to higher temperature. On the other hand, the ABS/SS composite shows a higher tensile strength than CC filled ABS. TGA results exhibit that there is an enhancement in the thermal stability when calcium carbonate from seashell is added. Good flame retardant properties were achieved with increasing the bio‐filler content. According to XRD and FT‐IR results of the char residues after cone calorimetric tests, the compact char layer acts as a barrier to oxygen and heat transfer, preventing the escape of polymer fragments to the gas phase, and decreasing the heat release rate during combustion. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:2788–2797, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Development of basalt fiber‐reinforced thermoplastic composites and effect of PE‐g‐MA on composites
Authors: Prajapati Rataram S. , Jain Sandeshkumar , Shit S.C.
Published: December 2015

The thermoplastic matrix composites have gained great importance in last three decades. The chopped basalt fiber (mineral fiber) is considered to be a good fiber due to excellent properties as potential reinforcement of composite materials. In this work, composites of chopped basalt fiber (6 mm) with thermoplastic material Nylon‐6 (Polyamide‐6) were prepared and its mechanical and morphological properties were evaluated for automobile applications. The melt blending was carried out in corotating twin‐screw extruder and injection‐molded test samples were prepared for the analysis. The test samples of composite without coupling agent prepared by varying the loading of basalt fiber content of 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25% by weight and with coupling agent composite loading of Nylon‐6 and basalt fiber content were kept constant and the coupling agent (PE‐g‐MA) loading were changed as 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 phr. The Mechanical and SEM properties were evaluated. From the test results, it was observed that the mechanical properties were improved with increasing coupling agent ratio. SEM images show good dispersion and adhesion of matrix and reinforcement. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:2798–2805, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Do people with borderline personality disorder complicated by antisocial personality disorder benefit from the STEPPS treatment program?
Authors: Black Donald W. , Simsek‐Duran Fatma , Blum Nancee , McCormick Brett , Allen Jeff
Published: December 2015

Systems Training for Emotional Predictability and Problem Solving (STEPPS) is a group treatment for persons with borderline personality disorder (BPD). We describe results from two data sets on outcome in persons who participated in STEPPS with BPD alone or BPD plus antisocial personality disorder (ASPD). In Study 1, we examined the effect of comorbid ASPD on outcome in 65 persons with BPD who participated in a randomized controlled trial at an academic medical centre. In Study 2, we examined the effect of comorbid ASPD on outcome in 64 offenders with BPD who participated in STEPPS in correctional settings. All subjects were assessed for the presence of BPD and ASPD. In Study 1, subjects with ASPD experienced greater improvement in BPD symptoms, impulsiveness and global symptoms. In Study 2, offenders with ASPD experienced greater improvement in positive and negative behaviours and positive affectivity. We conclude that persons with BPD plus ASPD benefit from STEPPS in community and correctional settings. The findings suggest that persons with BPD plus ASPD show greater improvement in some domains than persons with BPD only. People with ASPD should not be automatically excluded from participation in the program. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hydrogenated Silicon Nitride SiNx:H Deposited by Dielectric Barrier Discharge for Photovoltaics
Authors: Massines Françoise , Silva José , Lelièvre Jean‐François , Bazinette Rémy , Vallade Julien , Lecouvreur Paul , Pouliquen Sylvain
Published: December 2015

Dense hydrogenated silicon nitride (SiNx:H) layers for photovoltaics are made by Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (AP‐PECVD). The dependence of morphology, chemical, optical and passivation properties of the thin films on the plasma reactor configuration, the mode of homogeneous DBD (glow, Townsend, RF, nano pulsed) and the SiH4/NH3 gas flow ratio are investigated. Avoiding gas recirculation, improving thin film homogeneity through the electrode length and the plasma modulation appear as key points. Silicon solar cells made with AP‐PECVD SiN antireflective coating have the same efficiency as standard low pressure PECVD cells, showing the great potential of AP‐PECVD.
Multilayer graphene/ITO transparent n‐electrodes for high‐efficiency III‐nitride light‐emitting diodes
Authors: Kim Tae Kyoung , Oh Seung Kyu , Cha Yu‐Jung , Lee Dong Kyu , Hong Chan‐Hwa , Choi Hong Kyw , Yoon Yeo Jin , Kwak Joon Seop
Published: December 2015

Multilayer graphene (MLG)/ITO transparent n‐electrodes for high‐efficiency III‐nitride light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) were fabricated. MLG was grown on Ni/SiO2/Si substrates using a chemical vapor deposition method and transferred to the ITO transparent n‐electrodes of the LEDs. The properties were analyzed by electroluminescence measurements, Raman spectroscopy, and radiant intensity–current testing. The external quantum efficiency (EQE) was enhanced greatly by the MLG/ITO dual layers as transparent n‐electrodes in LEDs. The EQE and radiant intensity at an injection current of 200 mA of the LEDs with the MLG/ITO transparent n‐electrodes were improved by 33 and 32%, respectively, which was attributed to the improved light extraction through the transparent ITO n‐electrodes as well as the enhanced current spreading by the MLG on the ITO layer. The high transmittance and outstanding current spreading of the MLG/ITO transparent n‐electrodes have great potential for advanced transparent conducting n‐electrodes in optoelectronic devices.
Calorimetrische Analyse Organischer Substanzen. III. Anwendung der Methode auf ternäre Systeme ohne Mischkrystalle
Authors: Malotaux R. N. M. A. , Straub J.
Published: December 2015

Die in den früheren Mitteilungen der Verfasser beschriebene Apparatur und angewendete Methodik werden auf Zuverlässigkeit geprüft. Dazu wird für ternäre Gemische der theoretische Zusammenhang zwischen Schmelzpunkttemperatur‐Zusammensetzungsdiagramm und Schmelzkurven besprochen und angegeben, wie man beide aus einander erhalten kann. Beide werden dann auch experimentell bestimmt, das Diagramm aus vielen Schmelzpunktsbestimmungen, die Schmelzkurven in der Apparatur der Verfasser ermittelt, und die Ergebnisse auf ihre Beziehung zu einander geprüft. Es zeigte sich eine befriedigende Uebereinstimmung zwischen Theorie und Versuch, wodurch die Brauchbarkeit der Methodik bestätigt wird.
p‐Bromobenzazide as a reagent for the identification of phenols
Authors: Sah Peter P. T. , Cheng Pang‐Yen
Published: December 2015

Thirty‐three crystalline p‐bromophenyl‐urethanes were prepared by condensation of p‐bromobenzazide with various types of phenols in boiling ligroin solution. The yields were so very high and the melting points so distinctive that we recommend p‐bromobenzazide to be used as a micro‐reagent for the identification of phenols.
Über die Spaltung und die Optischen Eigenschaften des iso‐Amarins
Authors: Lifschitz I. , Bos J. G.
Published: December 2015

Die Spaltung des iso‐Amarins wurde erneut untersucht. Die z. T. auffallenden Angaben von Snape sind auf Unreinheit seiner Präparate und unvollständige Spaltung und nicht nur auf Mängel seines Polarimeters zurückzuführen. Genaue Messungen des Drehungsvermögens der reinen sauren d‐Tartrate, Chloride und freien Basen und die Schmelzpunkte der reinen Stoffe werden mitgeteilt.
Das Lichtbrechungsvermögen der Cellulose in Funktion des Quellungsgrades
Authors: Hermans P. H. , Platzek P.
Published: December 2015

Die von Meyer und Frey‐Wyssling bei Ramiefasern beobachtete Erscheinung, dass der Brechungsindex bei dem Quellen in Wasser weit weniger sinkt, als es nach der Wiener'schen Theorie der Mischkörper zu erwarten wäre, wird bei Messungen an isotropen Fäden auch für regenerierte Cellulose bestätigt gefunden.

In Übereinstimmung mit der Ansicht dieser Autoren wird geschlossen, dass die physikalischen Voraussetzungen der Wiener'schen Theorie im System Cellulose‐Wasser nicht unter allen Umständen erfüllt sind. Die theoretische Deutung dieser Tatsache wird diskutiert. Bei höher gequollenen Fäden ab einem Wassergehalt von etwa 50 Gew. % hört die Anomalie auf und erweist sich die Newton‐Wiener'sche Mischformel wieder gut anwendbar.
The influence of liver‐extract on the oxygen consumption of mammalian erythrocytes: II. Influence of cyanide and narcotics
Authors: Overbeek G. A.
Published: December 2015

1) A distinct inhibition of the liver‐extract respiration was exerted by 12‐5 γ per cm3 potassium cyanide. Considering the low dosage, this effect must be considered as a specific inhibition of a fermentative process; the cell‐free system: haemolysed erythrocytes‐liver‐extract was inhibited in the same way.

Methylene blue respiration could only be inhibited by a dose of at least 200 γ per cm3 potassium cyanide; this effect must be considered as unspecific.

2) The peculiar behaviour of the methylene blue respiration with respect to the concentrations of both constituents was shown to be in accordance with the properties of the two reactions involved in methylene‐blue respiration.

3) Only a very small inhibition by the narcotics, phenyl‐ and ethylurethane, was observed, either in the presence of erythrocytes or in the cell‐free system. Therefore, either dehydrogenases are involved in only a small part of the reaction, or a dehydrogenase, not inhibited by narcotics occurs in the system.

The methylene blue respiration is strongly inhibited by both narcotics.

4) Anaerobically the system erythrocytes‐liver‐extract did not decolorise methylene‐blue in the presence of narcotics. Therefore, dehydrogenases, which cannot be inhibited by narcotics do not occur in the system.
Sur L'influence de Circonstances Diverses sur L'étendue et la Forme des Régions D'explosion
Authors: Jorissen W. P.
Published: December 2015

Si l'on veut comparer utilement entre elles des régions d'explosion, il est désirable que celles‐ci soient déterminées avec le même appareil, de la même manière et dans les mêmes conditions.
Layer‐by‐layer deposition of nitrilotris(methylene)triphosphonic acid and Zr(IV): an XPS, ToF‐SIMS, ellipsometry, and AFM study
Authors: Diwan Anubhav , Singh Bhupinder , Hurley Christopher J. , Linford Matthew R.
Published: December 2015

Layer‐by‐layer assemblies consisting of alternating layers of nitrilotris(methylene)triphosphonic acid (NTMP), a polyfunctional corrosion inhibitor, and zirconium(IV) were prepared on alumina. In particular, a nine‐layer (NTMP/Zr(IV))4NTMP stack could be constructed at room temperature, which showed a steady increase in film thickness throughout its growth by spectroscopic ellipsometry up to a final thickness of 1.79 ± 0.04 nm. At higher temperature (70 °C), even a two‐layer NTMP/Zr(IV) assembly could not be prepared because of etching of the alumina substrate by the heated Zr(IV) solution. XPS characterization of the layer‐by‐layer assembly showed a saw tooth pattern in the nitrogen, phosphorus, and zirconium signals, where the modest increases and decreases in these signals corresponded to the expected deposition and perhaps removal of NTMP and Zr(IV). Time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF‐SIMS) confirmed the attachment of the NTMP molecule to the surface through PO−, PO2−, PO3−, and CN− signals. Increasing attenuation of the Al signal from the substrate after deposition of each layer was observed by both XPS and ToF‐SIMS. Essentially complete etching of the alumina by the heated Zr(IV) solution was confirmed by spectroscopic ellipsometry, XPS, and ToF‐SIMS. Atomic force microscopy revealed that all the films were smooth with Rq roughness values less than 0.5 nm. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Functional pressure‐sensitive adhesive tapes for local anodization of aluminium surfaces
Authors: Berndt L. , Hartwig A. , Kleemeier M. , Krieger A. , Thiel K. , Burchardt M.
Published: December 2015

A novel, pressure‐sensitive adhesive tape for local anodization of aluminium surfaces was developed. The main difference between this tape anodization and conventional bath anodization is the viscosity of the anodization medium. While the viscosity of industrial anodization baths is similar to that of water, the viscosity of the adhesive matrix is higher by six orders of magnitude. To achieve a reliable application of tape anodization, the differences between bath and tape anodization were examined. This included the impact of process parameters on the morphology of anodic oxide layers. A decrease in the speed of the transport processes in the liquid phase because of the higher viscosity leads to changed rates of growth and the dissolution of the anodic oxide layer. The morphology of anodic oxide layers formed under conditions of high viscosity is presented. Layer thickness, pore density and pore area were obtained by statistical analysis of SEM images. The results are complemented by current–time response measurements during the anodization process. Practical tests of the applicability of the anodization tape for local pre‐treatment of aluminium surfaces prior to bonding or painting were successfully performed. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Design and analysis of trials with a partially nested design and a binary outcome measure
Authors: Roberts Chris , Batistatou Evridiki , Roberts Stephen A.
Published: December 2015

Where treatments are administered to groups of patients or delivered by therapists, outcomes for patients in the same group or treated by the same therapist may be more similar, leading to clustering. Trials of such treatments should take account of this effect. Where such a treatment is compared with an un‐clustered treatment, the trial has a partially nested design. This paper compares statistical methods for this design where the outcome is binary.

Investigation of consistency reveals that a random coefficient model with a random effect for group or therapist is not consistent with other methods for a null treatment effect, and so this model is not recommended for this design. Small sample performance of a cluster‐adjusted test of proportions, a summary measures test and logistic generalised estimating equations and random intercept models are investigated through simulation. The expected treatment effect is biased for the logistic models. Empirical test size of two‐sided tests is raised only slightly, but there are substantial biases for one‐sided tests. Three formulae are proposed for calculating sample size and power based on (i) the difference of proportions, (ii) the log‐odds ratio or (iii) the arc‐sine transformation of proportions. Calculated power from these formulae is compared with empirical power from a simulations study.

Logistic models appeared to perform better than those based on proportions with the likelihood ratio test performing best in the range of scenarios considered. For these analyses, the log‐odds ratio method of calculation of power gave an approximate lower limit for empirical power. © 2015 The Authors. Statistics in Medicine published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Self‐Assembled 3D Foam‐Like NiCo2O4 as Efficient Catalyst for Lithium Oxygen Batteries
Authors: Liu Lili , Wang Jun , Hou Yuyang , Chen Jun , Liu Hua‐Kun , Wang Jiazhao , Wu Yuping
Published: December 2015

A self‐assembled 3D foam‐like NiCo2O4 catalyst has been synthesized via a simple and environmental friendly approach, wherein starch acts as the template to form the unique 3D architecture. Interestingly, when employed as a cathode for lithium oxygen batteries, it demonstrates superior bifunctional electrocatalytic activities toward both the oxygen reduction reaction and the oxygen evolution reaction, with a relatively high round‐trip efficiency of 70% and high discharge capacity of 10 137 mAh g−1 at a current density of 200 mA g−1, which is much higher than those in previously reported results. Meanwhile, rotating disk electrode measurements in both aqueous and nonaqueous electrolyte are also employed to confirm the electrocatalytic activity for the first time. This excellent performance is attributed to the synergistic benefits of the unique 3D foam‐like structure and the intrinsically high catalytic activity of NiCo2O4.
Learn how the FERPA ‘Dear Colleague Letter’ affects privacy of student health records
Authors: Kelly Sean R. , George Ryan E. San
Published: December 2015

In a recent draft “Dear Colleague Letter,” the U.S. Department of Education explained that the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act requires institutions to weigh competing interests before disclosing student health records in litigation between the student and the college, and even then to disclose only those portions of the confidential records directly relevant to the litigation.
Learn from fellow registrars best practices for communicating with students
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: December 2015

ANAHEIM, CALIF. — At any given time, students at your institution of higher education are receiving emails, phone calls, texts and social‐media communication from every possible corner of their lives. How do you make sure that your most important messages are getting through to them? In a session at the Pacific Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers, Julie Schulte, the assistant registrar for technology at the University of Oregon, held a brainstorming session to develop guidelines for best practices for communicating with students to make sure that your messages don't get lost in all the noise. Use the following challenges and suggestions to help tweak your own campus communication system for maximum efficiency.
5 things to know about FAFSA prior‐prior‐year implementation
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: December 2015

SAN DIEGO — In a packed session at this year's National Association for College Admission Counseling national conference, three presenters covered the nuts and bolts of the changes in incorporating prior‐prior‐year financial data on the upcoming Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Sarah Summerhill of Michigan State University, Eileen O'Leary of Stonehill College, and Todd Rinehart of the University of Denver introduced the changes, explained what the changes mean for higher education financial aid, gave an overview of possible upcoming changes to the admission process because of the PPY change, and reviewed best practices for implementing potential changes. Here are the top five things officials in the Registrar's Office need to know.
Die Dunkelreaktion zwischen Natriumformiat und Jod
Authors: v. Kiss Á. , Urmánczy A.
Published: December 2015

Es wird der Mechanismus der Reaktion zwischen Natriumformiat und Jod angegeben und die Geschwindigkeit dieser Reaktion in reinem Wasser und in KBr−, KCI− und KJ‐Lösungen bei 15°, 25°, 35° und 45° C im Dunkeln gemessen.
Genotype by environment interaction for seed yield in rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) using additive main effects and multiplicative interaction model
Authors: Nowosad Kamila , Liersch Alina , Popławska Wiesława , Bocianowski Jan
Published: December 2015

The objective of this study was to assess genotype by environment interaction for seed yield in rapeseed cultivars grown in West Poland by the additive main effects and multiplicative interaction model. The study comprised 25 rapeseed genotypes (15 F1 CMS ogura hybrids, their parental lines and two varieties: Californium and Hercules F1), analyzed in five localities through field trials arranged in a randomized complete block design, with four replicates. Seed yield of the tested genotypes varied from 15.9 to 80.99 dt/ha throughout the five environments/localities, with an average of 39.69 dt/ha. In the variance analysis, 69.82 % of the total yield variation was explained by environment, 13.67 % by differences between genotypes, and 8.15 % by genotype by environment interaction. Seed yield is highly influenced by environmental factors. Due to high influence of the environment on yield high adaptability of the genome is required.
Investigating the Influence of the Initial Biomass Distribution and Injection Strategies on Biofilm-Mediated Calcite Precipitation in Porous Media
Authors: Hommel Johannes , Lauchnor Ellen , Gerlach Robin , Cunningham Alfred B. , Ebigbo Anozie , Helmig Rainer , Class Holger
Published: December 2015

Attachment of bacteria in porous media is a complex mixture of processes resulting in the transfer and immobilization of suspended cells onto a solid surface within the porous medium. Quantifying the rate of attachment is difficult due to the many simultaneous processes possibly involved in attachment, including straining, sorption, and sedimentation, and the difficulties in measuring metabolically active cells attached to porous media. Preliminary experiments confirmed the difficulty associated with measuring active Sporosarcina pasteurii cells attached to porous media. However, attachment is a key process in applications of biofilm-mediated reactions in the subsurface such as microbially induced calcite precipitation. Independent of the exact processes involved, attachment determines both the distribution and the initial amount of attached biomass and as such the initial reaction rate. As direct experimental investigations are difficult, this study is limited to a numerical investigation of the effect of various initial biomass distributions and initial amounts of attached biomass. This is performed for various injection strategies, changing the injection rate as well as alternating between continuous and pulsed injections. The results of this study indicate that, for the selected scenarios, both the initial amount and the distribution of attached biomass have minor influence on the Ca

$$^{2+}$$

2
+

precipitation efficiency as well as the distribution of the precipitates compared to the influence of the injection strategy. The influence of the initial biomass distribution on the resulting final distribution of the precipitated calcite is limited, except for the continuous injection at intermediate injection rate. But even for this injection strategy, the Ca

$$^{2+}$$

2
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precipitation efficiency shows no significant dependence on the initial biomass distribution.
Global Crime Governance: Perspektiven und Grenzen transnationaler Kooperation
Authors: Jakobi Anja P. , Haunschild Jasmin
Published: December 2015

Die Bekämpfung transnationaler Kriminalität ist ein wichtiger Teilbereich internationaler Politik, allerdings mit unklarer Erfolgsbilanz. Dieser Beitrag zeigt Möglichkeiten und Limitationen der grenzüberschreitenden Zusammenarbeit auf. So gehen erweiterte Kompetenzen staatlicher und nichtstaatlicher Akteure einher mit wenig Wissen um den Erfolg von Maßnahmen, divergierenden Interessen und Aufgaben, oder mangelnden Möglichkeiten, die Ursachen transnationaler Kriminalität zu bekämpfen. Anhand der Beispiele Menschenhandel/-schmuggel sowie Cyberkriminalität zeigen wir dabei auf, worin Schwierigkeiten der Einigung auf und der erfolgreichen Durchsetzung von effektiven Gegenmaßnahmen bestehen.
CD56 and RUNX1 isoforms in AML prognosis and their therapeutic potential
Authors: Zaidi Syed Z.A. , Motabi Ibraheem H. , Al-Shanqeeti Ali
Published: December 2015

Neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM/CD56) expression in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has been associated with extramedullary leukemia, multidrug resistance, shorter remission and survival. Recently, Bloomfield et al. published a succinct review of issues surrounding the AML prognostication and current therapeutics. However, we want to reiterate the prognostic value and therapeutic potential of CD56 that is frequently expressed in AML as was also reported by their own group earlier. In addition, novel RUNX1 isoforms contribute in controlling CD56 expression in AML cells. Anti-CD56 antibody therapy deserves exploration as an arsenal against AML patients expressing CD56. Relevantly, targeting RNA splicing machinery or RUNX1 isoform-specific siRNA may also become part of future therapeutic strategies for AML with CD56 overexpression.
Intracranial AAV‐sTRAIL combined with lanatoside C prolongs survival in an orthotopic xenograft mouse model of invasive glioblastoma
Authors: Crommentuijn Matheus H.W. , Maguire Casey A. , Niers Johanna M. , Vandertop W. Peter , Badr Christian E. , Würdinger Thomas , Tannous Bakhos A.
Published: December 2015

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common malignant brain tumor in adults. We designed an adeno‐associated virus (AAV) vector for intracranial delivery of secreted, soluble tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (sTRAIL) to GBM tumors in mice and combined it with the TRAIL‐sensitizing cardiac glycoside, lanatoside C (lan C). We applied this combined therapy to two different GBM models using human U87 glioma cells and primary patient‐derived GBM neural spheres in culture and in orthotopic GBM xenograft models in mice. In U87 cells, conditioned medium from AAV2‐sTRAIL expressing cells combined with lan C induced 80% cell death. Similarly, lan C sensitized primary GBM spheres to sTRAIL causing over 90% cell death. In mice bearing intracranial U87 tumors treated with AAVrh.8‐sTRAIL, administration of lan C caused a decrease in tumor‐associated Fluc signal, while tumor size increased within days of stopping the treatment. Another round of lan C treatment re‐sensitized GBM tumor to sTRAIL‐induced cell death. AAVrh.8‐sTRAIL treatment alone and combined with lanatoside C resulted in a significant decrease in tumor growth and longer survival of mice bearing orthotopic invasive GBM brain tumors. In summary, AAV‐sTRAIL combined with lanatoside C induced cell death in U87 glioma cells and patient‐derived GBM neural spheres in culture and in vivo leading to an increased in overall mice survival.