bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison between two statistical downscaling methods for summer daily rainfall in Chongqing, China
Authors: Fan Lijun , Yan Zhongwei , Chen Deliang , Fu Congbin
Published: December 2014

Two circulation index‐based methods were applied to downscale summer daily rainfall at four meteorological stations in Chongqing, China. One is a regression method (CIM) and the other a hybrid circulation classification plus regression method (CPM). Both methods used the same three circulation indices and surface specific humidity as predictors. In the first method (CIM), the indices and humidity were used directly as predictors and only one model was developed at each station. In the second method (CPM), the indices were further used to define circulation patterns using the objective Lamb‐Jenkinson classification scheme, and one model was built using humidity as the sole predictor for each pattern. Logistic regression was used to define rainfall probability, and a gamma distribution was fit using observations to randomly generate daily rainfall amounts. The two downscaling methods were validated and compared. The results suggest that (1) both methods yield consistently reasonable results with respect to occurrence and amount of daily rainfall, although they perform poorly in reproducing interannual and interdecadal variability, (2) specific humidity should be used as a predictor. Both methods were forced by two future scenarios of a global climate model (GCM) to demonstrate the added value with two methods. The downscaled scenarios show a shift towards larger rainfall values, accompanied by more frequent dry days. This shift is mainly attributed to a change in specific humidity. Despite the similar performances of the two methods, CPM gives a higher frequency of dry days than CIM, whereas CIM produces stronger intensity of rainfall than CPM. This provides additional information about the uncertainty in the projections.
Roosting habitat use and selection by northern spotted owls during natal dispersal
Authors: Sovern Stan G. , Forsman Eric D. , Dugger Katie M. , Taylor Margaret
Published: December 2014

We studied habitat selection by northern spotted owls (Strix occidentalis caurina) during natal dispersal in Washington State, USA, at both the roost site and landscape scales. We used logistic regression to obtain parameters for an exponential resource selection function based on vegetation attributes in roost and random plots in 76 forest stands that were used for roosting. We used a similar analysis to evaluate selection of landscape habitat attributes based on 301 radio‐telemetry relocations and random points within our study area. We found no evidence of within‐stand selection for any of the variables examined, but 78% of roosts were in stands with at least some large (>50 cm dbh) trees. At the landscape scale, owls selected for stands with high canopy cover (>70%). Dispersing owls selected vegetation types that were more similar to habitat selected by adult owls than habitat that would result from following guidelines previously proposed to maintain dispersal habitat. Our analysis indicates that juvenile owls select stands for roosting that have greater canopy cover than is recommended in current agency guidelines. Published 2014. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Simulation Aspects of Lamellar Morphology: Incommensurability Effect
Authors: Škvor Jiří , Posel Zbyšek
Published: December 2014

Influence of size and shape of simulation box on lamellar morphology in DPD simulation is systematically studied. The 3D Voronoi Tessellation and cluster analysis is employed. It is shown that orientation and number of lamellar planes determines the value of lamellar spacing in box with periodic boundary conditions. The role of initial conditions and relaxation scenario on lamellar morphology is also studied. Scaling the box dimensions and equalizing the diagonal pressure tensor components is used to obtain natural lamellar spacing. Where the estimation of natural lamellar spacing is unclear, the intersection of the off‐diagonal components of the pressure tensor is used. Finally, examples where maximum lamellar spacing achieved by scaling of the box is smaller than the natural lamellar spacing are presented.
Fulminant lipid storage myopathy due to multiple acyl‐coenzyme a dehydrogenase deficiency
Authors: Whitaker Charles H. , Felice Kevin J. , Silvers David , Wu Qian
Published: December 2014

Introduction: The lipid storage myopathies, primary carnitine deficiency, neutral lipid storage disease, and multiple acyl coenzyme A dehydrogenase deficiency (MADD), are progressive disorders that cause permanent weakness. These disorders of fatty acid metabolism and intracellular triglyceride degradation cause marked fat deposition and damage to muscle cells. Methods: We describe a rapidly progressive myopathy in a previously healthy 33‐year‐old woman. Over 4 months, she developed a proximal and axial myopathy associated with diffuse myalgia and dysphagia, ultimately leading to respiratory failure and death. Results: Muscle biopsy showed massive accumulation of lipid. Plasma acylcarnitine and urine organic acid analysis was consistent with MADD. This was confirmed by molecular genetic testing, which revealed 2 pathogenic mutations in the ETFDH gene. Conclusions: This report illustrates a late‐onset case of MADD and reviews the differential diagnosis and evaluation of patients with proximal myopathy and excessive accumulation of lipid on muscle biopsy. Muscle Nerve 52: 289–293, 2015
The role of botulinum toxin type a‐induced motor endplates after peripheral nerve repair
Authors: Akdeniz Zeynep D. , Bayramiçli Mehmet , Ateş Filiz , Özkan Naziye , Yucesoy Can A. , Ercan Feriha
Published: December 2014

Introduction: The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that the increased number of new motor endplates induced by botulinum toxin type A (BTX‐A) injection before nerve injury would be reinnervated after nerve repair, resulting in greater force generation. Methods: Thirty male Wistar rats were divided randomly into 3 groups: (1) controls; (2) a group with saline solution injection; and (3) a group with BTX‐A injection into gastrocnemius muscle (BTX group). Thirty‐six days after the injections the left sciatic nerve was divided and coapted in all groups. Eight weeks later, muscle forces were measured, and histological samples were collected. Results: No differences in the number of innervated endplates were found between the groups, but the number of denervated endplates was higher in the BTX group, as was the muscle tissue degeneration score. The BTX group showed distal muscle force measurements of up to 25.8% less compared with the control group. Conclusion: Although BTX‐A injection increases the number of motor endplates, they are not functional. Muscle Nerve 52:412–418, 2015
Reliability and validity of active‐seated: An outcome in dystrophinopathy
Authors: Lowes Linda P. , Alfano Lindsay N. , Crawfis Roger , Berry Katherine , Yin Han , Dvorchik Igor , Flanigan Kevin M. , Mendell Jerry R.
Published: December 2014

Introduction

Traditional upper extremity measures typically focus on distal abilities and do not quantify the unique progression of decline in dystrophinopathy. We designed ACTIVE‐seated to meet this need. Our objective was to establish the tool's validity and reliability.

Methods

ACTIVE‐seated uses the Microsoft Kinect gaming interface to quantify functional reaching ability while playing a custom‐designed game. A skeletal tracking algorithm was used to determine the furthest arm excursion in all planes in 61 subjects with dystrophinopathy and 16 controls.

Results

Total reachable area was scaled based on arm length to standardize comparisons across subjects and accommodate growth. ACTIVE‐seated discriminately ranked subjects from normal controls and by Brooke level (P < 0.001). Scores were highly correlated with parent reports of daily activities and mobility (P < 0.05). Test–retest reliability of ACTIVE‐seated was excellent (ICC = 0.97, P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Initial evaluation of reliability and validity suggests that ACTIVE‐seated shows promise as a clinical and research outcome for individuals with dystrophinopathy. Muscle Nerve 52:356–362, 2015
Biofeedback Relaxation for Pain Associated With Continuous Passive Motion in Taiwanese Patients After Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Wang Tsae‐Jyy , Chang Ching‐Fen , Lou Meei‐Fang , Ao Man‐Kuan , Liu Chiung‐Chen , Liang Shu‐Yuan , Wu Shu‐Fang Vivienne , Tung Heng‐Hsing
Published: December 2014

Effective pain management is crucial for patient recovery after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Biofeedback therapy, which encourages relaxation and helps alleviate various conditions associated with stress, may help to decrease postoperative pain in patients undergoing TKA. A quasi‐ experimental design was used to investigate the efficacy of a biofeedback relaxation intervention in reducing pain associated with postoperative continuous passive motion (CPM) therapy. Sixty‐six patients admitted to a general hospital in Taiwan for TKA were recruited and randomly assigned to the intervention or control group. The intervention group received biofeedback training twice daily for 5 days, concurrent with CPM therapy, whereas the control group did not receive the biofeedback intervention. Pain was measured using a numeric rating scale before and after each CPM therapy session on postoperative days 1 through 5. The CPM‐elicited pain score was calculated by subtracting the pre‐CPM pain score from the post‐CPM pain score. Results of repeated‐measures analysis of variance showed intervention group reported significantly less pain caused by CPM than did the control group (f = 29.70, p < 0.001). The study results provide preliminary support for biofeedback relaxation, a non‐invasive and non‐pharmacological intervention, as a complementary treatment option for pain management in this population. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Differences in Caregiver‐Reported Health Problems and Health Care Use in Maltreated Adolescents and a Comparison Group From the Same Urban Environment
Authors: Schneiderman Janet U. , Kools Susan , Negriff Sonya , Smith Sharon , Trickett Penelope K.
Published: December 2014

Maltreated youth have a high prevalence of acute and chronic mental and physical health problems, but it is not clear whether these problems are related to maltreatment or to a disadvantaged environment. To compare health status and health care use of maltreated youth who had an open case with child protective services to comparison youth living in the same community, we conducted a secondary analysis of caregiver reports for 207 maltreated adolescents (mean age 11.9 years) and 142 comparison adolescents (mean age 12.3 years) living in urban Los Angeles, using questionnaire data from a larger longitudinal study framed in a socio‐ecological model. Caregivers included biological parents, relatives, and unrelated caregivers. Analyses included t‐test, MANOVA, chi‐square, and multivariable logistic regression. Caregivers reported similar rates of physical health problems but more mental health problems and psychotropic medicine use in maltreated youth than in the comparison youth, suggesting that maltreated youths' higher rates of mental health problems could not be attributed to the disadvantaged environment. Although there were no differences in health insurance coverage, maltreated youth received preventive medical care more often than comparison youth. For all youth, having Medicaid improved their odds of receiving preventive health and dental care. Attention to mental health issues in maltreated adolescents remains important. Acceptance of Medicaid by neighborhood‐based and/or school‐based services in low‐income communities may reduce barriers to preventive care. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Understanding factors influencing consumer attitudes toward cause‐related marketing
Authors: Galan Ladero M. Mercedes , Galera Casquet Clementina , Singh Jaywant
Published: December 2014

Cause‐related marketing (CRM) has proliferated as a marketing strategy and is being employed by numerous brands across product categories. Despite its widespread popularity, not much is known about the factors that influence consumer attitudes toward CRM. In this study, we investigate the antecedents of consumer attitudes toward CRM, specifically sociodemographic characteristics, consumer susceptibility to interpersonal influence, and mediating role of consumer values. We test causal relationships employing a partial least squares‐based structural equation model. The data are collected via a structured questionnaire resulting in 456 valid responses. Our study demonstrates that attitudes toward CRM are influenced by sociodemographic characteristics with personal values acting as mediator. In addition, our findings show that consumer susceptibility to interpersonal influence affects the importance given to values, which in turn influences attitudes toward CRM. Our study makes theoretical contributions in the domain of CRM, specifically regarding the role of personal values, interpersonal influences, and sociodemographic factors in influencing attitudes toward CRM. In addition, the findings have relevance for managers responsible for their CRM campaigns.

Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Scholarship funding through strategic reporting: the case of Koro Island
Authors: Shardlow Mignon , Brown Alistair
Published: December 2014

This study used observational and textual analysis to ascertain how the Koro Island Scholarship Fund developed a reporting model to access funding for educational scholarships that facilitated access to high schooling for disadvantaged children in the Lomaiviti Group of Eastern Fiji. The reporting model also provided information to key stakeholders, such as donor groups and aid organizations, for the assessment of student and funding performance. It appears that sound financial accountability of a scholarship fund is welcomed by donors. The scholarship fund appeared to work well if there was limited intrusion into the operations of a donee school, providing space for interrelations between traditional Fijian school values, the island landscape and the local conventions and customs.

Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The impact of insonation angle on four‐chamber view image quality: an observational study on 2866 routine scans
Authors: Jaudi Suha , Fries Nicolas , Tezenas du Montcel Sophie , Dommergues Marc
Published: December 2014

Objective

To determine insonation angles achieved in routine screening practice and their impact on image quality.

Methods

Prospective cross‐sectional observational survey of 2866 four‐chamber views produced by 287 senor ultrasonographers, from unselected routine second‐trimester screening scans. Images were scored from 0 to 5 according to whether two atria, two ventricles, the heart crux, the apex, and the descending aorta were seen. Images were considered adequate if two atria, two ventricles, and the heart crux were seen. The insonation angle was classified as apical, basal, or lateral according to the orientation of the fetal heart to the ultrasound beam.

Results

There were 1612 (56.3%) apical, 869 (30.3%) basal, and 385 (13.4%) lateral views. The mean score and the rate of adequate images were significantly greater in the apical group (4.56 and 81.8%) than in the basal group (4.19 and 71.1 %) and were significantly greater in the basal group than in the lateral one (3.6 and 30.9%), p < 0.001. Angle of insonation and image quality were not correlated with the experience of the operator.

Conclusions

Adequate four‐chamber view images are best obtained with an apical or basal insonation angle, which could be achieved in 8 out of 10 scans. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Computer‐aided design of a catalyst for Edman degradation utilizing substrate‐assisted catalysis
Authors: Borgo Benjamin , Havranek James J.
Published: December 2014

Molecular biology has been revolutionized by the miniaturization and parallelization of DNA sequencing assays previously performed on bulk samples. Many of these technologies rely on biomolecular reagents to facilitate detection, synthesis, or labeling of samples. To aid in the construction of analogous experimental approaches for proteins and peptides, we have used computer‐aided design to engineer an enzyme capable of catalyzing the cleavage step of the Edman degradation. We exploit the similarity between the sulfur nucleophile on the Edman reagent and the catalytic cysteine in a naturally occurring protease to adopt a substrate‐assisted mechanism for achieving controlled, step‐wise removal of N‐terminal amino acids. The ability to expose amino acids iteratively at the N‐terminus of peptides is a central requirement for protein sequencing techniques that utilize processive degradation of the peptide chain. While this can be easily accomplished using the chemical Edman degradation, achieving this activity enzymatically in aqueous solution removes the requirement for harsh acid catalysis, improving compatibility with low adsorption detection surfaces, such as those used in single molecule assays.
Retracted: Synthesis, Characterization and Surface Activities of Cationic Polysaccharide (Aloe) Schiff Base Surfactants
Authors: Zaky Mohamad F. , Badawi Abelfattah M. , Sabbah Ibrahim El , Abdel Ghani Reda A. , Hendawy Mostafa E.
Published: December 2014

Synthesis of cationic polysaccharide (Aloe) Schiff base surfactants was described and their chemical structures were confirmed by using FTIR spectroscopic, H‐NMR and UV analysis. The surface activities of these surfactants were measured, including surface tension, critical micelle concentration, effectiveness, efficiency, maximum surface excess and minimum surface area at 25 °C, interfacial tension and emulsification power at 25 °C. Adsorption and micellization free energies of these amphiphiles in their solutions showed a good tendency towards adsorption at the interfaces.
Synthesis and Interfacial Activity of Novel Heterogemini Sulfobetaines in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Kwaśniewska Dobrawa , Staszak Katarzyna , Wieczorek Daria , Zieliński Ryszard
Published: December 2014

Three new heterogemini sulfobetaines and their chloride salts were synthesised. The interfacial activities of the obtained chlorides in aqueous solution were studied by equilibrium and dynamic surface tension measurements. The critical micelle concentration, surface excess concentration, minimum area per surfactant molecule and standard Gibbs energy of adsorption as well as micelle lifetime and diffusion coefficient were determined. The adsorption properties and micelle lifetime of these compounds significantly depend on the length of alkyl chain. The critical micelle concentration decreases with increasing chain length of the compounds considered. The values of the diffusion coefficient of N‐alkyl‐N‐methyl‐N‐(3‐sulfopropyl)‐6‐(N‐alkyl‐N‐methylamino)hexylammonium chloride tend to decrease as the concentration is increased.
Hispanic Older Adult Mortality in the United States: New Estimates and an Assessment of Factors Shaping the Hispanic Paradox
Authors: Lariscy Joseph T. , Hummer Robert A. , Hayward Mark D.
Published: December 2014

Hispanics make up a rapidly growing proportion of the U.S. older adult population, so a firm grasp of their mortality patterns is paramount for identifying racial/ethnic differences in life chances in the population as a whole. Documentation of Hispanic mortality is also essential for assessing whether the Hispanic paradox—the similarity in death rates between Hispanics and non-Hispanic whites despite Hispanics’ socioeconomic disadvantage—characterizes all adult Hispanics or just some age, gender, nativity, or national-origin subgroups. We estimate age-/sex- and cause-specific mortality rate ratios and life expectancy for foreign-born and U.S.-born Hispanics, foreign-born and U.S.-born Mexican Americans, non-Hispanic blacks, and non-Hispanic whites ages 65 and older using the 1989–2006 National Health Interview Survey Linked Mortality Files. Results affirm that Hispanic mortality estimates are favorable relative to those of blacks and whites, but particularly so for foreign-born Hispanics and smoking-related causes. However, if not for Hispanics’ socioeconomic disadvantage, their mortality levels would be even more favorable.
On the Beginning of Mortality Acceleration
Authors: Salinari Giambattista , De Santis Gustavo
Published: December 2014

Physiological senescence is characterized by the increasing limitation of capabilities of an organism resulting from the progressive accumulation of molecular damage, which at group (cohort) level translates into, among other things, an increase in mortality risks with age. Physiological senescence is generally thought to begin at birth, if not earlier, but models of demographic aging (i.e., an increase in mortality risks) normally start at considerably later ages. This apparent inconsistency can be solved by assuming the existence of two mortality regimes: “latent” and “manifest” aging. Up to a certain age, there is only latent aging: physiological senescence occurs, but its low level does not trigger any measurable increase in mortality. Past a certain level (and age), molecular damage is such that mortality risks start to increase. We first discuss why this transition from latent to manifest aging should exist at all, and then we turn to the empirical estimation of the corresponding threshold age by applying Bai’s approach to the estimation of breakpoints in time series. Our analysis, which covers several cohorts born between 1850 and 1938 in 14 of the countries included in the Human Mortality Database, indicates that an age at the onset of manifest aging can be identified. However, it has not remained constant: it has declined from about 43 and 47 years, respectively, for males and females at the beginning of the period (cohorts born in 1850–1869) to about 31 for both males and females toward its end (cohorts born in 1920–1938). A discussion of why this may have happened ensues.
Malignant conversion of benign right ventricular outflow track ventricular tachycardia 18 years post‐ablation
Authors: Gerstein Wendy H. , Gerstein Neal S. , Sandoval Andrea , West Michael B.
Published: December 2014

This case report describes the rare phenomenon of malignant conversion of benign right ventricular outflow tract ventricular tachycardia into idiopathic ventricular fibrillation 18 years after successful ablation, in the absence of any type of heart disease. We review the current literature looking at predictors for this event, with the conclusion that there are no reliable risk predictors available. Until clear guidelines exist, we suggest patients be informed and monitored for the possibility of “malignant conversion” following ablation for benign idiopathic outflow tract ventricular tachycardia.
Understanding Resistance to Content Literacy by Pre-Service Social Studies Teachers
Authors: Alexander-Shea Aimee
Published: December 2014

Over the past decade, heightened attention has been placed on integrating literacy strategies into the social studies. The content literacy movement, as it has become known, began with the passing of No Child Left Behind and has continued with the newly implemented Common Core State Standards. In light of this movement, many states required the pre-service social studies teachers to take courses to teach them how to integrate content literacy into their field in spite of the fact that research has shown that these types of courses can lead to heightened opposition.

This study examines the process of change that pre-service social studies teachers experienced as they completed a content literacy course designed to model the principles of content literacy, provide opportunities to struggle with the application of content literacy, and support attempts at implementation.
Increasing the Quality and Availability of Evidence-based Treatment for Tobacco Dependence through Unified Certification of Tobacco Treatment Specialists
Authors: Sheffer Christine E. , Payne Thomas , Ostroff Jamie S. , Jolicoeur Denise , Steinberg Michael , Czabafy Sharon , Foulds Jonathan , Bars Matthew , Wassum Ken , Perry Barbara ,   (Training Issues Committee of the Association for the Treatment of Tobacco Use and Dependence)
Published: December 2014

Each year, tobacco use causes over 6 million deaths and is responsible for hundreds of billions of dollars in health care and economic costs in the world (WHO, 2011). If current trends continue, tobacco is expected to kill over 1 billion people in the 21st century, making it one of the single greatest causes of preventable death and disease in history (WHO, 2011). Long-term abstinence from tobacco use dramatically improves individuals’ health, reduces the incidence of tobacco-related disease, and is clearly responsible for saving lives (Anthonisen et al., 2005). Most tobacco users express a desire to achieve long-term abstinence from tobacco use and make numerous unsuccessful quit attempts over the course of many years (Borland, Partos, Yong, Cummings, & Hyland, 2012; CDC, 2011). Evidence-based treatments for tobacco use and dependence greatly improve the chances that quit attempts result in long-term abstinence (Chambless & Hollon, 1998; Chambless et al., 1998; Compas, Haaga, Keefe, Leitenberg, & Williams, 1998; Fiore et al., 2008; Zwar et al., 2004). Increasing the availability of high-quality evidence-based treatment for tobacco use and dependence will make it more likely that tobacco users use evidence-based treatments and that quit attempts translate into long-term abstinence. The professionalisation of treatment for tobacco dependence by the development of a rigorous, unified Tobacco Treatment Specialist (TTS) certification process will increase the availability of high-quality evidence-based treatment for tobacco use and dependence for all tobacco users.
Salvage supracricoid laryngectomy after failed radiotherapy and partial laryngectomy
Authors: Nakayama M , Miyamoto S , Okabe S , Okamoto M
Published: December 2014

Background:

A case of salvage supracricoid laryngectomy with cricohyoidoepiglottopexy after failed radiation therapy and vertical partial laryngectomy had successful oncological and functional outcomes. This is the first reported application of salvage supracricoid laryngectomy with cricohyoidoepiglottopexy after the failure of two major treatments.

Case report:

A 65-year-old man was referred for salvage supracricoid laryngectomy with cricohyoidoepiglottopexy. The right recurrent hemilarynx was successfully resected. After pexis, the right lobe of the thyroid gland was repositioned to overlap and reinforce the pexis gap and fill the devoid portion of the strap muscular closure. Multiple scattered foci (recurrent tumour–node–metastasis stage T2) were identified around the arytenoid cartilage and beneath the musculocutaneous flap. Four years after supracricoid laryngectomy with cricohyoidoepiglottopexy, the patient's recovery was following a favourable course and he had satisfactory laryngeal function.

Conclusion:

Appropriate case selection and proficient surgical skills were essential for a successful outcome. Head and neck surgeons should not be afraid to adopt functional preservation open surgical procedures in well-selected and well-motivated patients. A requirement for more challenging surgical procedures and meticulous rehabilitation processes should not exclude appropriate treatments from a surgeon's repertoire.
Reversible diaphragmatic paralysis caused by a malpositioned chest tube
Authors: Nakagama Yu , Kaneko Yukihiro , Ono Hiroshi
Published: December 2014

We report a case of reversible diaphragmatic paralysis caused by a malpositioned chest tube, a diagnosis to consider when unexplained respiratory failure occurs following drainage of pleural effusion. Prompt recognition and removal of the tube led to full recovery of diaphragm function.
Institutions, rules and equilibria: a commentary
Authors: BINMORE KEN
Published: December 2014

This brief note is a commentary on Hendriks and Guala's (2014) unification of the institutional theories of Lewis, North, and Searle. It argues that the equilibrium theory of Lewis is fundamental and that the kind of equilibrium best suited in this role remains the orthodox notion of Nash.
Postprandial decrease in vascular resistance correlated with change in second derivative of finger plethysmogram in young subjects
Authors: Tanaka Kunihiko , Kamihira Kimiko , Minoura Fumie , Watanabe Miyuki , Fujiyoshi Emi , Nakamura Koji , Katafuchi Tetsuro
Published: December 2014

Background: The second derivative of the finger plethysmogram (SDPTG) comprises five waves termed a to e. The magnitudes of waves b-e are normalized by that of wave a for within- and between-patient comparison. In the present study, affects of meal ingestion for SDPTG in young and elderly subjects are examined. Subjects and methods: Mean arterial pressure and SDPTG before and after meal ingestion in young and elderly subjects were measured. For young subjects, stroke volume and pulse rate were also measured, and the total peripheral resistance (TPR) of the blood vessels was analyzed. Relationship between TPR and the ratio of the peak of SDPTG in young subjects was also analyzed. Results: In young subjects, postprandial d/a was significantly larger and TPR was smaller than before intake and was linearly and significantly correlated with TPR. An increase in the postprandial d/a was also observed in the elderly subjects who were not undergoing hypertension treatment. However, this increase was not observed in elderly subjects who were treated for hypertension. Conclusions: Change in d/a is considered to be an index of change in TPR. TPR is considered to be decreased by agents for treatment of hypertension, and meal ingestion does not appear to further decrease TPR. These results are considered to be useful for understanding cardiodynamics surrounding meal ingestion.
Vibrational signatures to discriminate liver steatosis grades
Authors: Peng Chengyuan , Chiappini Franck , Kaščáková Slávka , Danulot Mélanie , Sandt Christophe , Samuel Didier , Dumas Paul , Guettier Catherine , Le Naour François
Published: December 2014

Fourier transform-infrared (FTIR) microspectroscopy allows the grading of steatosis on frozen tissue sections.
Laser-assisted photothermal heating of a plasmonic nanoparticle-suspended droplet in a microchannel
Authors: Walsh Timothy , Lee Jungchul , Park Keunhan
Published: December 2014

The present article reports the numerical and experimental investigations on the laser-assisted photothermal heating of a nanoliter-sized droplet in a microchannel when plasmonic particles are suspended in the droplet.
High rate capability and superior cycle stability of a flower-like Sb2S3anode for high-capacity sodium ion batteries
Authors: Zhu Yaoyao , Nie Ping , Shen Laifa , Dong Shengyang , Sheng Qi , Li Hongsen , Luo Haifeng , Zhang Xiaogang
Published: December 2014

Sb2S3nanosheets self-assembled into flower-like structures showed a high rate capability and superior cyclability when used as electrode materials for Na ion batteries.
Facile synthesis of zwitterionic polymer-coated core–shell magnetic nanoparticles for highly specific capture of N-linked glycopeptides
Authors: Chen Yajing , Xiong Zhichao , Zhang Lingyi , Zhao Jiaying , Zhang Quanqing , Peng Li , Zhang Weibing , Ye Mingliang , Zou Hanfa
Published: December 2014

Highly selective and efficient capture of glycosylated proteins and peptides from complex biological samples is of profound significance for the discovery of disease biomarkers in biological systems.
Large pore mesoporous silica nanomaterials for application in delivery of biomolecules
Authors: Knežević Nikola Ž. , Durand Jean-Olivier
Published: December 2014

Large pore-mesoporous silica nanoparticles and their core/shell magnetic analogues are capable of loading and intracellular delivery of various biomolecules for theranostic applications.
Direct construction of 2-alkylbenzo-1,3-azoles via C–H activation of alkanes for C–C and C–X (X = O, S) bond formation
Authors: Yadav Arvind K. , Yadav Lal Dhar S.
Published: December 2014

2-Alkylated benzo(oxa)thiazoles were prepared directly from simple alkanes and aryl isocyanates/isothiocyanates in a one-pot procedure.
A fluorescent light-up platform with “AIE + ESIPT” characteristics for multi-target detection both in solution and on paper strip
Authors: Zhang Ruoyu , Gao Meng , Bai Shiqiang , Liu Bin
Published: December 2014

We report a fluorescent light-up platform for multi-target detection in aqueous solution and on paper strip.
Selective decoration of isolated carbon nanotubes by potassium evaporation: scanning photoemission microscopy and density functional theory
Authors: Struzzi Claudia , Erbahar Dogan , Scardamaglia Mattia , Amati Matteo , Gregoratti Luca , Lagos Maureen J. , Van Tendeloo Gustaaf , Snyders Rony , Ewels Chris , Bittencourt Carla
Published: December 2014

Site selective doping of aligned carbon nanostructures represents a promising approach for their implementation in actual devices.
Magnetic properties of in-plane oriented barium hexaferrite thin films prepared by direct current magnetron sputtering
Authors: Zhang Xiaozhi , Yue Zhenxing , Meng Siqin , Yuan Lixin
Published: December 2014

In-plane c-axis oriented Ba-hexaferrite (BaM) thin films were prepared on a-plane (112¯0) sapphire (Al2O3) substrates by DC magnetron sputtering followed by ex-situ annealing. The DC magnetron sputtering was demonstrated to have obvious advantages over the traditionally used RF magnetron sputtering in sputtering rate and operation simplicity. The sputtering power had a remarkable influence on the Ba/Fe ratio, the hematite secondary phase, and the grain morphology of the as-prepared BaM films. Under 80 W of sputtering power, in-plane c-axis highly oriented BaM films were obtained. These films had strong magnetic anisotropy with high hysteresis loop squareness (Mr/Ms of 0.96) along the in-plane easy axis and low Mr/Ms of 0.03 along the in-plane hard axis. X-ray diffraction patterns and pole figures revealed that the oriented BaM films grew via an epitaxy-like growth process with the crystallographic relationship BaM (101¯0)//α-Fe2O3(112¯0)//Al2O3(112¯0).
Formation, nature, and stability of the arsenic-silicon-oxygen alloy for plasma doping of non-planar silicon structures
Authors: Ventzek Peter L. G. , Kweon Kyoung E. , Ueda Hirokazu , Oka Masahiro , Sugimoto Yasuhiro , Hwang Gyeong S.
Published: December 2014

We demonstrate stable arsenic-silicon-oxide film formation during plasma doping of arsenic into non-planar silicon surfaces through investigation of the nature and stability of the ternary oxide using first principles calculations with experimental validations. It is found that arsenic can be co-mingled with silicon and oxygen, while the ternary oxide exhibits the minimum energy phase at x ≈ 0.3 in AsxSi1−xO2−0.5x. Our calculations also predict that the arsenic-silicon-oxide alloy may undergo separation into As-O, Si-rich As-Si-O, and Si-O phases depending on the composition ratio, consistent with experimental observations. This work highlights the importance of the solid-state chemistry for controlled plasma doping.
Carbon nanotube fibers spun from a sizing material
Authors: Meng Fancheng , Lu Weibang , Li Qingwen , Claes Michaël , Kchit Nadir , Chou Tsu-Wei
Published: December 2014

Carbon nanotube (CNT) fibers with large pores of hundreds of nanometers in diameter are synthesized from a commercially available sizing material. The pore size can be well controlled by varying the processing conditions including fiber drying temperature and shrinkage ratio. With the use of small amount H2SO4 (1 wt. %), low-concentration (1 wt. %) polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) bath coagulated porous fibers are flexible, with both high mechanical strength and electrical conductivity. Ethylene glycol/methanol mixture bath is also used to fabricate PVA-free porous CNT fibers. The porous fiber demonstrates good performance in foreign components accessing and accommodating, which may facilitate more CNT fiber practical applications, such as absorbents and supercapacitors.
Frequency dependence of the magnetostrictive phenomenon in Metglas® 2605SA1 ribbon: A minor-loop case
Authors: Jen S. U. , Liu C. C. , Lin H. R. , Chou S. H.
Published: December 2014

Frequency dependence of magnetostrictive phenomenon of as-cast 2605SA1 ribbon was studied. We applied a sinusoidal sweeping field (H), with a fixed frequency (f), along length (L) of the ribbon, and simultaneously recorded the longitudinal magnetostriction (λ∥) and the transverse magnetostriction (λ⊥) as a function of time (t), respectively. f was varied from 0.07 to 122 Hz. In the low-f case (f =0.07 Hz), we observed the frequency-doubling (FD) feature in λ∥(t) and λ⊥(t) curves; i.e., only even harmonic magnetostrictive signals showed up. In the high-f case (f = 122 Hz), we observed the no-frequency-doubling (NFD) feature; i.e., both odd and even harmonic magnetostrictive signals showed up. A theory, based on the balance among various torques acting on magnetization, is developed to explain the f dependence of the magnetostriction phenomenon observed. From this theory, we conclude that only when the reflection symmetry of the system is reserved, i.e., when the equivalent easy axis (EEA) is perpendicular to L, will λ∥(t) and λ⊥(t) have the true-frequency-doubling (TFD) feature. However, for the as-cast 2605SA1 ribbon, EEA is not perpendicular to L. Thus, strictly speaking, we should observe the NFD feature only. Nevertheless, in the low-f limit, we can show that the FD feature is somewhat allowed under the condition, b/α being close to 1, where b and α are the two parameters used in the theory. From experimental data, this condition is met for as-cast 2605SA1. To make a distinction from TFD, this low-f feature is called close-frequency-doubling (CFD) in this paper. In general, the theory explains all the experimental results fairly well.
Percolation conductivity in hafnium sub-oxides
Authors: Islamov D. R. , Gritsenko V. A. , Cheng C. H. , Chin A.
Published: December 2014

In this study, we demonstrated experimentally that formation of chains and islands of oxygen vacancies in hafnium sub-oxides (HfOx, x < 2) leads to percolation charge transport in such dielectrics. Basing on the model of Éfros-Shklovskii percolation theory, good quantitative agreement between the experimental and theoretical data of current-voltage characteristics was achieved. Based on the percolation theory suggested model shows that hafnium sub-oxides consist of mixtures of metallic Hf nanoscale clusters of 1–2 nm distributed onto non-stoichiometric HfOx. It was shown that reported approach might describe low resistance state current-voltage characteristics of resistive memory elements based on HfOx.
Large electrostrain in poled and aged acceptor-doped ferroelectric ceramics via reversible domain switching
Authors: Zhao Xiaobo , Liang Ruihong , Zhang Wenbin , Wang Genshui , Dong Xianlin
Published: December 2014

The electrostrain behavior through reversible domain switching in aged acceptor-doped ferroelectric ceramics has been widely investigated in the past decade. However, previous works were focused on unpoled ceramics, which could only utilize part of domains to exchange nonequal crystalline axis to generate strain under external electric field. In this paper, we proposed an effective method: (1) Initially, the acceptor-doped ceramics should be poled. (2) Then, the ceramics need to be aged for enough time. (3) Finally, the applied electric field should be perpendicular to the poling direction. Our method can utilize more domains to exchange nonequal crystalline axis to contribute to electrostrain in comparison with unpoled ceramics reported in the literature. According to our method, the unipolar electrostrain of 1.5 mol. % Fe-doped (Pb,Ba,Sr)(Zr,Ti)O3 ceramics in this work could reach 0.33%, which was 3.75 times larger than that of unpoled one at 3.0 kV mm−1. Meanwhile, the normalized strain d33* could reach nearly 1100 pm V−1 which was one of the highest values reported in ferroelectric ceramics. Additionally, the ceramics displayed interesting double or slim P-E (polarization-electric field) hysteresis loops at various electric fields. Our work provides a general method via reversible domain switching in aged acceptor-doped ferroelectric ceramics to obtain large electrostrain for high-displacement actuator applications.
Ripple structure-generated hybrid electrokinetics for on-chip mixing and separating of functionalized beads
Authors: Cheng I-Fang , Chiang Sheng-Chuan , Chung Cheng-Che , Yeh Trai-Ming , Chang Hsien-Chang
Published: December 2014

We present an electrokinetics-based microfluidic platform that is capable of on-chip manipulating, mixing, and separating microparticles through adjusting the interrelated magnitudes of dielectrophoresis and AC electroosmosis. Hybrid electrokinetic phenomenon is generated from an electric field-induced micro-ripple structure made of ultraviolet-curable glue. Size-dependent particle separation and selective removal over the ripple structure is demonstrated successfully. Varying the waveform from sine-wave to square-wave allows generating a fluid convection at specific positions to mix the antibody-functionalized beads and antigen. Potential application in the bead-based immunoassay was also demonstrated for immuno-reaction and subsequently separating the bead-bead aggregate and non-binding beads on-chip.
Directional selection can drive the evolution of modularity in complex traits
Authors: Melo Diogo , Marroig Gabriel
Published: December 2014

Significance

Modularity, the tendency for the parts of many biological systems to be organized into semiindependent groups, is crucial to the understanding of diversification and the interaction between a population and its environment. In particular, a population’s response to selection is dependent on its modularity pattern, which, in turn, is molded by selection. How these modular patterns evolve is therefore a central question in biology. We show, using novel individual-level simulations, that directional selection is very efficient at restructuring variation and creating modular patterns in continuous traits and that stabilizing selection can maintain established patterns.
Arrival of the Fukushima radioactivity plume in North American continental waters
Authors: Smith John N. , Brown Robin M. , Williams William J. , Robert Marie , Nelson Richard , Moran S. Bradley
Published: December 2014

Significance

The radionuclide results in this report represent the first systematic study, to our knowledge, of the arrival of the Fukushima radioactivity signal in continental waters off North America. The present time series results are critical to an understanding of the circulation of Fukushima tracers in the eastern North Pacific and to the tuning and validation of ocean circulation models that are being used to predict the future evolution of this signal. They are also important for informing the public of the magnitude of the Fukushima radioactivity signal in North American continental waters and enabling a science-based assessment of the significance of its potential effects on human health and the environment.
Fnip1 regulates skeletal muscle fiber type specification, fatigue resistance, and susceptibility to muscular dystrophy
Authors: Reyes Nicholas L. , Banks Glen B. , Tsang Mark , Margineantu Daciana , Gu Haiwei , Djukovic Danijel , Chan Jacky , Torres Michelle , Liggitt H. Denny , Hirenallur-S Dinesh K. , Hockenbery David M. , Raftery Daniel , Iritani Brian M.
Published: December 2014

Significance

Folliculin interacting protein-1 (Fnip1) is an intracellular protein known to interact with folliculin (a protein mutated in Birt Hogg Dube’ Syndrome) and the master metabolic sensor AMP kinase. However, the roles of Fnip1 in mammalian development and function are unclear. In this study, we used mice deficient in Fnip1 to show that Fnip1 regulates skeletal muscle fiber type specification. Mice deficient in Fnip1 were significantly enriched for highly oxidative skeletal muscle that is more resistant to fatigue than wild-type muscle. Loss of Fnip1 also decreased muscle damage in a mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. These results reveal a previously unidentified function for Fnip1 and suggest that pharmacological inhibition of Fnip1 may reduce muscle damage in patients with muscular dystrophy.
Enhancing long-term memory with stimulation tunes visual attention in one trial
Authors: Reinhart Robert M. G. , Woodman Geoffrey F.
Published: December 2014

Significance

Theories of attention propose that we rely on working memory to control attention by maintaining target presentations in this active store as our visual systems are used to search for certain objects. Here, we show that the tuning of perceptual attention can be sharply accelerated by noninvasive brain stimulation. Our electrophysiological measurements showed that these improvements in attentional tuning were preceded by changes in event-related potentials thought to index long-term memory, but not those potentials that index working memory. Our findings support the hypothesis that changes in the storage of target representations in long-term memory may underlie rapid changes in how target objects are selected by visual attention.
A red meat-derived glycan promotes inflammation and cancer progression
Authors: Samraj Annie N. , Pearce Oliver M. T. , Läubli Heinz , Crittenden Alyssa N. , Bergfeld Anne K. , Banda Kalyan , Gregg Christopher J. , Bingman Andrea E. , Secrest Patrick , Diaz Sandra L. , Varki Nissi M. , Varki Ajit
Published: December 2014

Significance

We present an unusual mechanism for the well-known association between red meat consumption and carcinoma risk involving the nonhuman sialic acid
N
-glycolylneuraminic acid (Neu5Gc). We first evaluate the Neu5Gc content of various foods to show that red meats are particularly rich in orally bioavailable Neu5Gc and then investigate human-like Neu5Gc-deficient mice fed this form of Neu5Gc. When such mice were challenged with anti-Neu5Gc antibodies, they developed evidence of systemic inflammation. Long-term exposure to this combination resulted in a significantly higher incidence of carcinomas (five-fold increase) and an association with Neu5Gc accumulation in the tumors. Similar mechanisms may contribute to the association of red meat consumption with other diseases, such as atherosclerosis and type 2 diabetes, which are also exacerbated by inflammation.
Granular impact cratering by liquid drops: Understanding raindrop imprints through an analogy to asteroid strikes
Authors: Zhao Runchen , Zhang Qianyun , Tjugito Hendro , Cheng Xiang
Published: December 2014

Significance

We provide a quantitative understanding of raindrop impacts on sandy surfaces—a ubiquitous phenomenon relevant to many important natural, agricultural, and industrial processes. Combining high-speed photography with high-precision laser profilometry, we investigate the dynamics of liquid-drop impacts on granular surfaces and monitor the morphology of resulting impact craters. Remarkably, we discover a quantitative similarity between liquid-drop impacts and asteroid strikes in terms of both the energy scaling and the aspect ratio of their impact craters. Such a similarity inspires us to apply the idea developed in planetary sciences to liquid-drop impact cratering, which leads to a model that quantitatively describes various features of liquid-drop imprints.