bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ionization and NO production in the polar mesosphere during high-speed solar wind streams: model validation and comparison with NO enhancements observed by Odin-SMR
Authors: Kirkwood S. , Osepian A. , Belova E. , Urban J. , Pérot K. , Sinha A. K.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Precipitation of high-energy electrons (EEP) into the polar middle atmosphere is a potential source of significant production of odd nitrogen, which may play a role in stratospheric ozone destruction and in perturbing large-scale atmospheric circulation patterns. High-speed streams of solar wind (HSS) are a major source of energization and precipitation of electrons from the Earth's radiation belts, but it remains to be determined whether these electrons make a significant contribution to the odd-nitrogen budget in the middle atmosphere when compared to production by solar protons or by lower-energy (auroral) electrons at higher altitudes, with subsequent downward transport. Satellite observations of EEP are available, but their accuracy is not well established. Studies of the ionization of the atmosphere in response to EEP, in terms of cosmic-noise absorption (CNA), have indicated an unexplained seasonal variation in HSS-related effects and have suggested possible order-of-magnitude underestimates of the EEP fluxes by the satellite observations in some circumstances. Here we use a model of ionization by EEP coupled with an ion chemistry model to show that published average EEP fluxes, during HSS events, from satellite measurements (Meredith et al., 2011), are fully consistent with the published average CNA response (Kavanagh et al., 2012). The seasonal variation of CNA response can be explained by ion chemistry with no need for any seasonal variation in EEP. Average EEP fluxes are used to estimate production rate profiles of nitric oxide between 60 and 100 km heights over Antarctica for a series of unusually well separated HSS events in austral winter 2010. These are compared to observations of changes in nitric oxide during the events, made by the sub-millimetre microwave radiometer on the Odin spacecraft. The observations show strong increases of nitric oxide amounts between 75 and 90 km heights, at all latitudes poleward of 60° S, about 10 days after the arrival of the HSS. These are of the same order of magnitude but generally larger than would be expected from direct production by HSS-associated EEP, indicating that downward transport likely contributes in addition to direct production.
Dedicated Training Program for Shoulder Sonography
Authors: Delzell Patricia B. , Boyle Alex , Schneider Erika
Published: May 2015

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to define and report on the effect of a comprehensive musculoskeletal sonography training program to improve accuracy (sensitivity and specificity) for the diagnosis of rotator cuff tears in relatively inexperienced operators.

Methods

Before the training program was implemented, radiologists (n = 12) had a mean of 2 years (range, <1–12 years) of experience performing and interpreting musculoskeletal sonography. Pre‐ and post‐training shoulder sonographic results were compared to surgical reports or, in their absence, to shoulder magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomographic arthrographic results if within 2 months of the sonographic examination. A total of 82 patients were included in the pre‐training group (January 2010–December 2011), and 50 patients were included in the post‐training group (January 2012–June 2013). The accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were determined for the presence or absence of supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendon tears.

Results

After implementation of the training program, the sensitivity of sonography for detecting full‐thickness rotator cuff tears increased by 14%, and the sensitivity for detecting partial‐thickness rotator cuff tears increased by 3%.

Conclusions

Quality improvement programs and acquisition standardization along with ongoing, focused case conferences for the entire care team increased the sensitivity of shoulder sonography for diagnosing both full‐ and partial‐thickness rotator cuff tears, independent of the years of operator experience.
Asymptomatic Mesenchymal Hamartoma of the Chest Wall in Child With Fluorodeoxyglucose Uptake on PET/CT—Report of a Case
Authors: Okamoto Kentaro , Tani Yukiko , Yamaguchi Takeshi , Ogino Kei , Tsuchioka Takashi , Nakajima Masanobu , Yamaguchi Satoru , Sasaki Kinro , Kato Hiroyuki , Ohya Toshiki
Published: May 2015

We had experience with a case of mesenchymal hamartoma of the chest wall (MHCW) with fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) uptake on positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT). We reported the first case of asymptomatic MHCW in a child with preoperative PET/CT. Mesenchymal hamartoma of the chest wall is a rare benign tumor that usually presents as a visible chest wall mass or respiratory problems secondary to compression of the lung in early infancy. It is often reported that malignant transformation is extraordinarily rare. Positron emission tomography/CT is useful for diagnosis of malignancy. There is no report of MHCW in a child with preoperative PET/CT before. We examined an asymptomatic 1-year-old girl with an incidental finding on a chest x-ray. Scans of CT and PET/CT were performed before surgical resection. After surgery, the resected tumor was examined histologically. Chest x-ray and CT scan of the chest confirmed a 25- × 20-mm round shaped intrapleural mass containing calcification and destructing the rib, arising from the third rib. Scan of PET/CT demonstrated the mass with light FDG accumulation. Histologically, the mass was homogenous, with thick funicular of hyaline cartilage interdigitating with scattered fiber. There were no malignant cells. No malignant MHCW was demonstrated in the mass, with light FDG accumulation by PET/CT. PET/CT might be a useful tool to distinguish malignant MHCW in children.
Laparoscopic Management of Complicated Foreign Body Ingestion: A Case Series
Authors: Chia Daryl K. A. , Wijaya Ramesh , Wong Andrew , Tan Su-Ming
Published: May 2015

This study aims to demonstrate the safety and feasibility of laparoscopic management of complicated foreign body (FB) ingestion in a series of 5 patients. We present the merits of a minimally-invasive approach in this clinical setting from our series as well as published case reports. FB ingestion is occasionally complicated by abscess formation or perforation, requiring surgical intervention. Anecdotal reports of such cases managed by laparoscopic surgery have alluded to its merits over the conventional approach of open surgery. Over an 18-month period, 5 of 256 patients with FB ingestion at our unit were managed by laparoscopic surgery. Clinical and operative data were collected for this study. In all 5 cases, patients could not recall their FB ingestion and had normal plain radiographs. The diagnosis was made on a computed tomography (CT) scan. Laparoscopy was successfully employed to retrieve all FBs (fish bones), deroof abscesses, and primarily repair gastrointestinal perforations. The mean operative time was 69 minutes (55–85), utilizing 2 to 4 noncamera ports. There was no operative mortality and patients were discharged on average postoperative day (POD) 5 (2–8). Laparoscopic surgery is safe and feasible in small-diameter, complicated FB ingestion requiring surgical intervention and should be considered in similar patients.
Our Contrivances to Diminish Complications After Pylorus-Preserving Pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Shimura Tatsuo , Suzuki Hideki , Araki Kenichiro , Kobayashi Tsutomu , Yashima Rei , Kohunato Yasuhide , Okada Ryou , Shibata Masahiko , Kuwano Hiroyuki , Takenoshita Seiichi
Published: May 2015

The objective of this study is to diminish postoperative complications after pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy. Pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy is still associated with major complications, especially leakage at pancreatojejunostomy and delayed gastric emptying. Traditional pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy was performed in group A, while the novel procedure, an antecolic vertical duodenojejunostomy and internal pancreatic drainage with omental wrapping, was performed in group B (n = 40 each). We compared the following characteristics between the 2 groups: operation time, blood loss, time required before removal of nasogastric tube and resumption of food intake, length of hospital stay, and postoperative complications. The novel procedure required less time and was associated with less blood loss (both P < 0.0001). In the comparison of the 2 groups, group B showed less time for removal of nasogastric tubes and resumption of food intake, shorter hospital stays, and fewer postoperative complications (all P < 0.0001). The novel procedure appears to be a safe and effective alternative to traditional pancreaticoduodenectomy techniques.
Random coupling model for the radiation of irregular apertures
Authors: Gradoni Gabriele , Antonsen Thomas M. , Ott Edward
Published: May 2015

In this work, we extend results on the coupling of radiation through apertures inside wave chaotic electromagnetic cavities to the short‐wavelength limit. The aperture is assumed to have irregular and smooth boundary geometry. A statistical approach is then used to model both fields in the aperture and in the plane of the aperture. Particular emphasis is devoted to the calculation of the free‐space or radiation aperture admittance matrix, whose ensemble averaged element takes a simple closed‐form expression. The radiation admittance matrix is found to be purely diagonal at relatively short wavelength, and it exhibits unusual frequency behavior. The extreme scenario of an irregular aperture radiating inside an irregular cavity is represented through the random coupling model. This mathematical framework uses a limited number of details of both the aperture and the environment in those problems involving the coupling of an external radiation. The universal fluctuation of the effective area of an electrically large aperture is found for a wave chaotic cavity at variable losses. Results are expected to be useful for the physical understanding of scattering in extremely complicated environments, mode‐stirred reverberation chambers, wireless channels, radar traces, and statistical optics.
Regional air pollution brightening reverses the greenhouse gases induced warming‐elevation relationship
Authors: Zeng Zhenzhong , Chen Anping , Ciais Philippe , Li Yue , Li Laurent Z. X. , Vautard Robert , Zhou Liming , Yang Hui , Huang Mengtian , Piao Shilong
Published: May 2015

Mountain waters, glaciers, hazards, and biodiversity are vulnerable to the impacts of global warming. Warming is projected to amplify over mountains by global climate models, yet meteorological records do not show a uniform acceleration of warming with elevation. Here we explore warming‐elevation relationships using records from 2660 meteorological stations and determine that the vertical gradient of warming rate varies with location. The warming is faster at higher altitudes in Asia and western North America, but the opposite is observed over Central Europe and eastern North America which have received more short‐wave radiation (brightening) associated with a decrease of aerosols and clouds since the 1980s. We found that altitudinal differences in air pollution (brightening), with observations showing more short‐wave radiation received at low altitudes than at mountains, modulate the warming‐elevation relationships. The advance in understanding of the drivers of regional climate change will contribute to the formulation of strategies for climate change mitigation at high elevations.
A new upper limit to the field‐aligned potential near Titan
Authors: Coates Andrew J. , Wellbrock Anne , Waite J. Hunter , Jones Geraint H.
Published: May 2015

Neutral particles dominate regions of the Saturn magnetosphere and locations near several of Saturn's moons. Sunlight ionizes neutrals, producing photoelectrons with characteristic energy spectra. The Cassini plasma spectrometer electron spectrometer has detected photoelectrons throughout these regions, where photoelectrons may be used as tracers of magnetic field morphology. They also enhance plasma escape by setting up an ambipolar electric field, since the relatively energetic electrons move easily along the magnetic field. A similar mechanism is seen in the Earth's polar wind and at Mars and Venus. Here we present a new analysis of Titan photoelectron data, comparing spectra measured in the sunlit ionosphere at ~1.4 Titan radii (RT) and at up to 6.8 RT away. This results in an upper limit on the potential of 2.95 V along magnetic field lines associated with Titan at up to 6.8 RT, which is comparable to some similar estimates for photoelectrons seen in Earth's magnetosphere.
The silicon isotope composition of Ethmodiscus rex laminated diatom mats from the tropical West Pacific: Implications for silicate cycling during the Last Glacial Maximum
Authors: Xiong Zhifang , Li Tiegang , Algeo Thomas , Doering Kristin , Frank Martin , Brzezinski Mark A. , Chang Fengming , Opfergelt Sophie , Crosta Xavier , Jiang Fuqing , Wan Shiming , Zhai Bin
Published: May 2015

The cause of massive blooms of Ethmodiscus rex laminated diatom mats (LDMs) in the eastern Philippine Sea (EPS) during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) remains uncertain. In order to better understand the mechanism of formation of E. rex LDMs from the perspective of dissolved silicon (DSi) utilization, we determined the silicon isotopic composition of single E. rex diatom frustules (δ30SiE. rex) from two sediment cores in the Parece Vela Basin of the EPS. In the study cores, δ30SiE. rex varies from −1.23‰ to −0.83‰ (average −1.04‰), a range that is atypical of marine diatom δ30Si and that corresponds to the lower limit of reported diatom δ30Si values of any age. A binary mixing model (upwelled silicon versus eolian silicon) accounting for silicon isotopic fractionation during DSi uptake by diatoms was constructed. The binary mixing model demonstrates that E. rex dominantly utilized DSi from eolian sources (i.e., Asian dust) with only minor contributions from upwelled seawater sources (i.e., advected from Subantarctic Mode Water, Antarctic Intermediate Water, or North Pacific Intermediate Water). E. rex utilized only ~24% of available DSi, indicating that surface waters of the EPS were eutrophic with respect to silicon during the LGM. Our results suggest that giant diatoms did not always use a buoyancy strategy to obtain nutrients from the deep nutrient pool, thus revising previously proposed models for the formation of E. rex LDMs.
High‐Performance Transition Metal Dichalcogenide Photodetectors Enhanced by Self‐Assembled Monolayer Doping
Authors: Kang Dong‐Ho , Kim Myung‐Soo , Shim Jaewoo , Jeon Jeaho , Park Hyung‐Youl , Jung Woo‐Shik , Yu Hyun‐Yong , Pang Chang‐Hyun , Lee Sungjoo , Park Jin‐Hong
Published: May 2015

Most doping research into transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) has been mainly focused on the improvement of electronic device performance. Here, the effect of self‐assembled monolayer (SAM)‐based doping on the performance of WSe2‐ and MoS2‐based transistors and photodetectors is investigated. The achieved doping concentrations are ≈1.4 × 1011 for octadecyltrichlorosilane (OTS) p‐doping and ≈1011 for aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) n‐doping (nondegenerate). Using this SAM doping technique, the field‐effect mobility is increased from 32.58 to 168.9 cm2 V−1 s in OTS/WSe2 transistors and from 28.75 to 142.2 cm2 V−1 s in APTES/MoS2 transistors. For the photodetectors, the responsivity is improved by a factor of ≈28.2 (from 517.2 to 1.45 × 104 A W−1) in the OTS/WSe2 devices and by a factor of ≈26.4 (from 219 to 5.75 × 103 A W−1) in the APTES/MoS2 devices. The enhanced photoresponsivity values are much higher than that of the previously reported TMD photodetectors. The detectivity enhancement is ≈26.6‐fold in the OTS/WSe2 devices and ≈24.5‐fold in the APTES/MoS2 devices and is caused by the increased photocurrent and maintained dark current after doping. The optoelectronic performance is also investigated with different optical powers and the air‐exposure times. This doping study performed on TMD devices will play a significant role for optimizing the performance of future TMD‐based electronic/optoelectronic applications.
Multistage Nanovehicle Delivery System Based on Stepwise Size Reduction and Charge Reversal for Programmed Nuclear Targeting of Systemically Administered Anticancer Drugs
Authors: Li Lian , Sun Wei , Zhong Jiaju , Yang Qingqing , Zhu Xi , Zhou Zhou , Zhang Zhirong , Huang Yuan
Published: May 2015

The nucleus is the final target of many first‐line chemotherapeutics, but the need to overcome multiple physiological barriers imposes conflicting requirements for size and charge on systemically administered drug delivery systems. Here, an N‐(2‐hydroxypropyl) methacrylamide (HPMA) polymer‐based nanovehicle (PNV) that self‐assembles from anionic HPMA copolymers with charge‐reversal ability and cationic HPMA copolymers with intracellularly detachable subgroups (IDS) is described. The IDS, bearing an anticancer drug and nuclear‐homing cell‐penetrating peptide (R8NLS ligand), is grafted onto the HPMA copolymer via hydrazone linkage. The large, neutrally charged, self‐assembled PNV (≈55 nm) shows good blood persistence and preferential tumor accumulation. After tumoral arrival, the extracellular milieu actuates the disassembly of PNV to linear conjugates (≈10 nm/39 kDa). This first‐stage size reduction exposes R8NLS and allows for deeper tissue penetration and greater cellular internalization. After endocytosis, a second‐stage size reduction occurs when the more acidic endolysosomal pH cleaved the ≈2.4 kDa IDS off the HPMA copolymer backbone and guaranteed the successful nuclear entry via nuclear localization signal assistance. Based on the stepwise size reduction and on‐demand R8NLS exposure, the PNV inhibits growth of HeLa tumors in nude mice by 75%. This work gives important insights into the design of systemic nuclear‐targeted delivery via a multistage size/charge changing way.
A Near Infrared Light Triggered Hydrogenated Black TiO2 for Cancer Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Ren Wenzhi , Yan Yong , Zeng Leyong , Shi Zhenzhi , Gong An , Schaaf Peter , Wang Dong , Zhao Jinshun , Zou Baobo , Yu Hongsheng , Chen Ge , Brown Eric Michael Bratsolias , Wu Aiguo
Published: May 2015

White TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) have been widely used for cancer photodynamic therapy based on their ultraviolet light–triggered properties. To date, biomedical applications using white TiO2 NPs have been limited, since ultraviolet light is a well‐known mutagen and shallow penetration. This work is the first report about hydrogenated black TiO2 (H‐TiO2) NPs with near infrared absorption explored as photothermal agent for cancer photothermal therapy to circumvent the obstacle of ultraviolet light excitation. Here, it is shown that photothermal effect of H‐TiO2 NPs can be attributed to their dramatically enhanced nonradiative recombination. After polyethylene glycol (PEG) coating, H‐TiO2‐PEG NPs exhibit high photothermal conversion efficiency of 40.8%, and stable size distribution in serum solution. The toxicity and cancer therapy effect of H‐TiO2‐PEG NPs are relative systemically evaluated in vitro and in vivo. The findings herein demonstrate that infrared‐irradiated H‐TiO2‐PEG NPs exhibit low toxicity, high efficiency as a photothermal agent for cancer therapy, and are promising for further biomedical applications.
Die organokatalytische asymmetrische Prins‐Cyclisierung
Authors: Tsui Gavin Chit , Liu Luping , List Benjamin
Published: May 2015

Wir berichten über die Entwicklung einer Brønsted‐Säure‐katalysierten enantioselektiven Prins‐Cyclisierung. In Anwesenheit katalytischer Mengen sterisch anspruchsvoller chiraler Imidodiphosphorsäuren reagieren Salicylaldehyde mit 3‐Methyl‐3‐buten‐1‐ol zu hochfunktionalisierten 4‐Methylentetrahydropyranen. Der extreme Raumbedarf der sperrigen Katalysatoren ist dabei der Schlüssel zu exzellenten Regio‐ und Enantioselektivität.
Alcoholic solvent‐assisted ligand‐free room temperature Suzuki–Miyauracross‐coupling reaction
Authors: Sarmah Gayatri , Mondal Manoj , Bora Utpal
Published: May 2015

We have observed the enhancing effect of alcoholic solvents in palladium‐catalysed ligand‐free Suzuki–Miyaura reactions. No extra additives or ligands are required for the Suzuki–Miyaura reaction of aryl bromides with arylboronic acids when we carried out the reaction in alcoholic or aqueous alcoholic solvents. Moreover, ethanol or aqueous ethanol is found to be a very good solvent for the Suzuki–Miyaura reaction involving electronically diverse aryl bromides and arylboronic acids under mild and ligand‐free conditions with low catalyst loading. It is observed from Hg(0) poisoning tests that the in situ generated palladium(0) species is the actual catalytic species for the reaction. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mitochondrial quality control pathways as determinants of metabolic health
Authors: Held Ntsiki M. , Houtkooper Riekelt H.
Published: May 2015

Mitochondrial function is key for maintaining cellular health, while mitochondrial failure is associated with various pathologies, including inherited metabolic disorders and age‐related diseases. In order to maintain mitochondrial quality, several pathways of mitochondrial quality control have evolved. These systems monitor mitochondrial integrity through antioxidants, DNA repair systems, and chaperones and proteases involved in the mitochondrial unfolded protein response. Additional regulation of mitochondrial function involves dynamic exchange of components through mitochondrial fusion and fission. Sustained stress induces a selective autophagy – termed mitophagy – and ultimately leads to apoptosis. Together, these systems form a network that acts on the molecular, organellar, and cellular level. In this review, we highlight how these systems are regulated in an integrated context‐ and time‐dependent network of mitochondrial quality control that is implicated in healthy aging.
Miscanthus as cellulosic biomass for bioethanol production
Authors: Lee Wen‐Chien , Kuan Wei‐Chih
Published: May 2015

The members of the genus Miscanthus are potential feedstocks for biofuels because of the promising high yields of biomass per unit of planted area. This review addresses species, cultivation, and lignocellulose composition of Miscanthus, as well as pretreatment and enzyme saccharification of Miscanthus biomass for ethanol fermentation. The average cellulose contents in dried biomass of Miscanthus floridulus, Miscanthus sinensis, Miscanthus sacchariflorus, and Miscanthus × giganteus (M × G) are 37.2, 37.6, 38.9, and 41.1% wt/wt, respectively. A number of pretreatment methods have been applied in order to enhance digestibility of Miscanthus biomass for enzymatic saccharification. Pretreatment of Miscanthus using liquid hot water or alkaline results in a significant release of glucose; while glucose yields can be 90% or higher if a pretreatment like AFEX that combines both chemical and physical processes is used. As ethanol is produced by yeast fermentation of the hydrolysate from enzymatic hydrolysis of residual solids (pulp) after pretreatment, theoretical ethanol yields are 0.211–0.233 g/g‐raw biomass if only cellulose is taken into account. Simultaneous saccharification and fermentation of pretreated M × G and M. lutarioriparius results in experimental ethanol yields of 0.13 and 0.15 g/g‐raw biomass, respectively. Co‐production of value‐added products can reduce the overall production cost of bioethanol.
Systematic interpolation method predicts protein chromatographic elution from batch isotherm data without a detailed mechanistic isotherm model
Authors: Creasy Arch , Barker Gregory , Yao Yan , Carta Giorgio
Published: May 2015

Predicting protein elution for overloaded ion exchange columns requires models capable of describing protein binding over broad ranges of protein and salt concentrations. Although approximate mechanistic models are available, they do not always have the accuracy needed for precise predictions. The aim of this work is to develop a method to predict protein chromatographic behavior from batch isotherm data without relying on a mechanistic model. The method uses a systematic empirical interpolation (EI) scheme coupled with a lumped kinetic model with rate parameters determined from HETP measurements for non‐binding conditions, to numerically predict the column behavior. For two experimental systems considered in this work, predictions based on the EI scheme are in excellent agreement with experimental elution profiles under highly overloaded conditions without using any adjustable parameters. A qualitative study of the sensitivity of predicting protein elution profiles to the precision, granularity, and extent of the batch adsorption data shows that the EI scheme is relatively insensitive to the properties of the dataset used, requiring only that the experimental ranges of protein and salt concentrations overlap those under which the protein actually elutes from the column and possess a ±10% measurement precision.
Review peptide‐targeted liposomes for selective drug delivery: Advantages and problematic issues
Authors: Accardo Antonella , Morelli Giancarlo
Published: May 2015

We describe the use of bioactive peptides to drive liposomal drugs on target receptors overexpressed in cancer cells. A detailed description for several targeting liposomes derivatized with different peptides and thus able to target relevant receptors for cancer therapy is reported. Even if the development of peptide‐targeted liposomes represents a great advance in the use of liposomal drugs for cancer therapy, many critical issues are still unsolved in the development of these innovative drug delivery systems. Advantages and drawbacks of the peptide‐mediated active targeting are discussed. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 104: 462–479, 2015.
Brain metabolomics in rats after administration of ketamine
Authors: Wen Congcong , Zhang Meiling , Zhang Yuan , Sun Fa , Ma Jianshe , Hu Lufeng , Lin Guanyang , Wang Xianqin
Published: May 2015

In this study, we developed a brain metabolomic method, based on gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS), to evaluate the effect of ketamine on rats. Pattern recognition analysis, including both principal component analysis and partial least squares‐discriminate analysis revealed that ketamine induced metabolic perturbations. Compared with the control group, the levels of glycerol, uridine, cholesterol in rat brain of the ketamine group (50 mg/kg, 14 days) decreased, while the urea levels increased. Our results indicate that metabolomic methods based on GC/MS may be useful to elucidate ketamine abuse through the exploration of biomarkers. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Efficient level of detail for texture‐based flow visualization
Authors: Lu Daying , Zhu Dengming , Wang Zhaoqi , Gao Jinzhu
Published: May 2015

In this paper, we present an efficient level of detail algorithm for texture‐based flow visualization. Our goal is to enhance visual perception and performance and generate smooth animation. To achieve our goal, we first model an adaptive input texture taking into account flow patterns to output view‐dependent high‐quality images. Then, we compute field lines only from sparse sampling points of the input noise texture for outputting volume line integral convolution textures and skip empty space utilizing two quantized binary histograms. To improve image quality, we implement anti‐aliasing through adjusting the line integral convolution step size and thickness of trajectory lines with an opacity function. We further extend our solution to unsteady flow. Flow structures and evolution are clearly shown through smooth animation achieved with coherent evolution of particles, handling of discontinuous flow lines, and spatio‐temporal linear constraint of the underlying noise volume. In the result section, we show high‐quality level of detail of three‐dimensional texture‐based flow visualization with high performance. We also demonstrate that our algorithm can achieve smooth evolution for unsteady flow with spatio‐temporal coherence. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Contact Toxicity and Repellency of the Essential Oil from Mentha haplocalyxBriq. against Lasioderma serricorne
Authors: Zhang Wen‐Juan , Yang Kai , You Chun‐Xue , Wang Cheng‐Fang , Geng Zhu‐Feng , Su Yang , Wang Ying , Du Shu‐Shan , Deng Zhi‐Wei
Published: May 2015

The chemical composition of the essential oil obtained by hydrodistillation from the aerial parts of Mentha haplocalyx was investigated by GC‐FID and GC/MS analyses. In sum, 23 components, representing 92.88% of the total oil composition, were identified, and the main compounds were found to be menthol (59.71%), menthyl acetate (7.83%), limonene (6.98%), and menthone (4.44%). By bioassay‐guided fractionation (contact toxicity), three compounds were obtained from the essential oil and identified as menthol, menthyl acetate, and limonene. The essential oil and the three isolated compounds exhibited potent contact toxicity against Lasioderma serricorne adults, with LD50 values of 16.5, 7.91, 5.96, and 13.7 μg/adult, respectively. Moreover, the oil and its isolated compounds also exhibited strong repellency against L. serricorne adults. At the lower concentrations tested and at 2 h after exposure, menthol showed even significantly stronger repellency than the positive control DEET. The study revealed that the bioactivity properties of the essential oil can be attributed to the synergistic effects of its diverse major and minor components, which indicates that the M. haplocalyx oil and its isolated compounds have potential for the development as natural insecticides and/or repellents to control insects in stored grains and traditional Chinese medicinal materials.
Distribution and Variability of n‐Alkanes in Epicuticular Waxes of Sedum Species from the Central Balkan Peninsula: Chemotaxonomic Importance
Authors: Jovanović Snežana Č. , Zlatković Bojan K. , Stojanović Gordana S.
Published: May 2015

For the first time, the n‐alkane distribution and variability of the epicuticular waxes within 22 Sedum taxa was reported with focus on the chemotaxonomy of native Sedum representatives from the central Balkan Peninsula, compared to their relations with four other species of the Crassulaceae family. By GC/MS and GC‐FID identification and quantification, it was established that n‐alkanes C27, C29, C31, C33, and C35 were the dominant constituents of the examined epicuticular wax samples. Applying multivariate statistical analyses including agglomerative hierarchical clustering (AHC) and principal component analysis (PCA), the relation according to the n‐alkane composition between the examined samples was established. It was shown that the n‐alkane variability of the central Balkan Sedum species was considerable and that n‐alkanes might not be very reliable taxonomic markers for these species.
Peptide Bioconjugates of Electron‐Poor Metallocenes: Synthesis, Characterization, and Anti‐Proliferative Activity
Authors: Maschke Marcus , Grohmann Jens , Nierhaus Claudia , Lieb Max , Metzler‐Nolte Nils
Published: May 2015

We report the synthesis of metallocene compounds Cp2M with two different electron‐withdrawing substituents on both cyclopentadienyl rings (hexafluoroacetone (HFA) and chlorobenzoyl (1–5); HFA and COOH (6 and 7), M=Fe or Ru). The COOH‐containing derivatives were used to synthesize peptide bioconjugates with enkephalin (8 and 9) and neurotensin (10 and 11) as well as fluorescein‐labeled neurotensin (12). All the molecules were fully characterized, including X‐ray structures for 6 and 7. The physicochemical properties (lipophilicity and electrochemistry) and cytotoxicity on MCF‐7, HT‐29, and PT‐45 cancer cells were evaluated for selected compounds. Electrochemical investigation by cyclic voltammetry revealed that all bis‐substituted metallocenes are up to 300 mV harder to oxidize compared to the monosubstituted 2‐ferrocenylhexafluoropropan‐2‐ol (FcHFA: Δ${E{{{\rm f}\hfill \atop 0\hfill}}}$=214 mV; disubstituted derivatives: up to Δ${E{{{\rm f}\hfill \atop 0\hfill}}}$=512 mV; both vs. FcH0/+). For the bis‐substituted compounds, log P determinations by RP‐HPLC showed increased lipophilicity in comparison to the monosubstituted FcHFA and RcHFA. Cellular uptake was investigated by fluorescence microcopy, and this revealed endosomal entrapment for 12.
Modeling Mercury Flows in Thailand on the Basis of Mathematical Material Flow Analysis
Authors: Wongsoonthornchai Manaporn , Kwonpongsagoon Suphaphat , Scheidegger Ruth
Published: May 2015

Mercury pollution is a global problem, because it can be transported across borders and released from both natural and anthropogenic sources. In this paper, we studied the mercury flows in Thailand originating from anthropogenic sources (from intentional and unintentional use) in 2010, giving for the first time a comprehensive overview over mercury stock and flows including emissions in Thailand. Mathematical material flow analysis was applied to calculate the stock of mercury and its flows in the country. All available data from various sources such as statistical data, literature, surveys, and interviews with experts were used. The results showed that total mercury emissions were about 57 000 kg/year, 61% of them to land, 35% to air, and 4% to water. The largest mercury input comes as impurities in imported zinc, followed by domestically mined gold ores in which mercury is also an impurity. The largest stock of mercury is found in dental amalgam, followed by air conditioners and sphygmomanometers. The scenarios developed here were designed to reduce mercury emissions. Unintentional use alone can reduce total mercury emissions by about 33%, while around 5% of the potential reduction comes from intentional use. Changes in combined unintentional and intentional use can lead to the highest potential reduction.
A primer for carbon‐detected NMR applications to intrinsically disordered proteins in solution
Authors: Bastidas Monique , Gibbs Eric B. , Sahu Debashish , Showalter Scott A.
Published: May 2015

Characterization of intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) has grown tremendously over the past two decades. NMR‐based structural characterization has been widely embraced by the IDP community, largely because this technique is amenable to highly flexible biomolecules. Particularly, carbon‐detect nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments provide a straight forward and expedient method for completing backbone assignments, thus providing the framework to study the structural and dynamic properties of IDPs. However, these experiments remain unfamiliar to most NMR spectroscopists, thus limiting the breadth of their application. In an effort to remove barriers that may prevent the application of carbon‐detected bio‐NMR where it has the potential to benefit investigators, here we describe the experimental requirements to collect a robust set of carbon‐detected NMR data for complete backbone assignment of IDPs. Specifically, we advocate the use of three‐dimensional experiments that exploit magnetization transfer pathways initiated on the aliphatic protons, which produces increased sensitivity and provides a suitable method for IDPs that are only soluble in basic pH conditions (>7.5). The applicability of this strategy to systems featuring a high degree of proline content will also be discussed. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Concepts Magn Reson Part A 43A: 54–66, 2015.
Liquid‐Phase Catalytic Transfer Hydrogenation of Furfural over Homogeneous Lewis Acid–Ru/C Catalysts
Authors: Panagiotopoulou Paraskevi , Martin Nickolas , Vlachos Dionisios G.
Published: May 2015

The catalytic performance of homogeneous Lewis acid catalysts and their interaction with Ru/C catalyst are studied in the catalytic transfer hydrogenation of furfural by using 2‐propanol as a solvent and hydrogen donor. We find that Lewis acid catalysts hydrogenate the furfural to furfuryl alcohol, which is then etherified with 2‐propanol. The catalytic activity is correlated with an empirical scale of Lewis acid strength and exhibits a volcano behavior. Lanthanides are the most active, with DyCl3 giving complete furfural conversion and a 97 % yield of furfuryl alcohol at 180 °C after 3 h. The combination of Lewis acid and Ru/C catalysts results in synergy for the stronger Lewis acid catalysts, with a significant increase in the furfural conversion and methyl furan yield. Optimum results are obtained by using Ru/C combined with VCl3, AlCl3, SnCl4, YbCl3, and RuCl3. Our results indicate that the combination of Lewis acid/metal catalysts is a general strategy for performing tandem reactions in the upgrade of furans.
Evaluation of cell sorting aerosols and containment by an optical airborne particle counter
Authors: Xie Mike , Waring Michael T.
Published: May 2015

Understanding aerosols produced by cell sorting is critical to biosafety risk assessment and validation of containment efficiency. In this study an Optical Airborne Particle Counter was used to analyze aerosols produced by the BD FACSAria and to assess the effectiveness of its aerosol containment. The suitability of using this device to validate containment was directly compared to the Glo‐Germ method put forth by the International Society for Advancement of Cytometry (ISAC) as a standard for testing. It was found that high concentrations of aerosols ranging from 0.3 µm to 10 µm can be detected in failure mode, with most less than 5 µm. In most cases, while numerous aerosols smaller than 5 µm were detected by the Optical Airborne Particle Counter, no Glo‐Germ particles were detected, indicating that small aerosols are under‐evaluated by the Glo‐Germ method. The results demonstrate that the Optical Airborne Particle Counter offers a rapid, economic, and quantitative analysis of cell sorter aerosols and represents an improved method over Glo‐Germ for the task of routine validation and monitoring of aerosol containment for cell sorting. © 2015 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Leadership is an art, Part III
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: May 2015

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston is, in a word, magnificent. Opened in 1903, the collection of art was selected and arranged in the galleries by none other than Gardner. Upon her death in 1924, she left the museum an endowment, stipulating that the pieces of art must be left as she had arranged them. I am glad she did so, for it is the most unique display of artworks in any museum I have visited.
Address challenges law schools face with an innovative dean
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: May 2015

Few areas of the academy are changing more quickly than the law school. To lead the school through changes that help it thrive, the school needs a dean with the skills, connections and ideas to innovate.
High pressure homogenization of Nannochloropsis oculata for the extraction of intracellular components: Effect of process conditions and culture age
Authors: Shene Carolina , Monsalve María Teresa , Vergara Daniela , Lienqueo María Elena , Rubilar Mónica
Published: May 2015

Nannochloropsis is a genus of unicellular eukaryotes known primarily from the marine environment whose members are potential sources of lipids and long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids; for the extraction of these and other valuable cell components, cell disruption is needed. High pressure homogenization (HPH) would be particularly suitable for microalgae with a recalcitrant cell wall such as Nannochloropsis. HPH conditions should be determined based on both the target cell component and properties of the cell suspension that in some cases are dependent on the age of the culture. The yields of soluble protein and total sugars from N. oculata ranged from 22.7 to 50.4 mg/g and from 55.0 to 62.5 mg/g, respectively, depending on HPH conditions (loading pressure and number of passes). The yield of the lipids extracted with the method of Bligh and Dyer was not affected by HPH conditions whereas lipids extracted with Soxhlet method ranged between 8.2 and 16.2%. Main fatty acids in the lipids extracted with the method of Bligh and Dyer and total lipids were palmitic acid (17.2 ± 0.1–23.0 ± 0.2%), palmitoleic acid (22.9 ± 0.3–19.1 ± 0.9%), and eicosapentaenoic acid (20.6 ± 0.3–29.2 ± 0.3%). HPH of N. oculata cells promoted a different effect on particle size distribution (PSD) depending on the age of the culture. HPH reduced cell aggregation observed in the 10 day cell suspension, whereas it promoted aggregation of the 30 day cell suspension.

Practical applications: The feasibility of producing a wide range of products from microalgae is determined by the culture conditions and the conditions of the stages in the downstream processing. Because main microalgae components are intracellular, a scalable cell disruption operation such as HPH is required. Cell disruption degree is determined not only by the equipment design and its operational conditions but also by the cell suspension properties. The results allowed us to conclude that a different combination loading pressure/number of passes in HPH maximizes the recovery of hydrosoluble compounds (proteins and sugars) and lipids in N. oculata. Besides, since the PSD of the microalgae suspension is a function of culture age, this variable could affect process productivity.

The effects of HPH conditions on the subsequent recovery of hydrosoluble intracellular components (protein and sugars) and the extraction of lipids accumulated by N. oculata were determined. The best combination of the operation conditions for HPH was used for the recovery of the studied components from the microalgae harvested at different periods (culture age). Particle size distribution (PSD) of the cell suspension before and after homogenization was determined to test the effect of culture age on cell disruption. Our results suggest that the conditions of HPH of N. oculata should be defined considering the component of interest.
Develop tools to enable a ‘zero‐stop’ office
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: May 2015

Staff members in John Papinchak's office joke that they don't like to say “no.” Instead, they say, “Let's consider our options.”
Prevalence of Eating Disorder Risk and Associations with Health‐related Quality of Life: Results from a Large School‐based Population Screening
Authors: Zeiler Michael , Waldherr Karin , Philipp Julia , Nitsch Martina , Dür Wolfgang , Karwautz Andreas , Wagner Gudrun
Published: May 2015

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of eating disorder (ED) risk as well as associated psychopathology and health‐related quality of life (HrQoL) in a large population sample of Austrian adolescents.

Method

A sample of 3610 adolescents aged 10–18 years was recruited from 261 schools representative for the Austrian population. The SCOFF questionnaire was used to identify participants at risk for EDs, and the Youth Self‐Report and KIDSCREEN were used to assess general psychopathology and HrQoL.

Results

In total, 30.9% of girls and 14.6% of boys were screened at risk for EDs. SCOFF scores were significantly associated with internalising and externalising behavioural problems as well as HrQoL after controlling for sex, age and body mass index. The SCOFF score further turned out to be an independent predictor of HrQoL.

Discussion

The high prevalence of ED risk among Austrian adolescents points out the need for prevention in this field. Variables indicating eating pathology should be included in general mental health screenings. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Eating Disorder Symptoms and Suicidal Ideation: The Moderating Role of Disgust
Authors: Chu Carol , Bodell Lindsay P. , Ribeiro Jessica D. , Joiner Thomas E.
Published: May 2015

Disgust has been implicated as a factor that maintains and exacerbates eating disorder (ED) symptoms. Emerging research suggests that disgust may be a risk factor for suicidality. Given the high rates of suicidality among individuals with EDs, we propose that disgust may contribute to the link between EDs and suicidality. To test this hypothesis, self‐report data were collected from 341 young adults (66% women). Cross‐sectional associations between disgust with the self, others and the world and disgust sensitivity and propensity, ED symptoms and suicidal ideation were examined using multivariate regression analyses. ED symptoms and body dissatisfaction were associated with increased suicidal ideation at high levels of disgust with the self and the world; at low levels of disgust, ED symptoms and body dissatisfaction did not significantly relate to suicidal ideation. Disgust may indicate risk for suicidal ideation among individuals with eating psychopathology. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Effect of 10 different TiO2 and ZrO2 (nano)materials on the soil invertebrate Enchytraeus crypticus
Authors: Gomes Susana I.L. , Caputo Gianvito , Pinna Nicola , Scott-Fordsmand Janeck J. , Amorim Mónica J.B.
Published: May 2015

Nearly 80% of all the nano-powders produced worldwide are metal oxides, and among these materials titanium dioxide (TiO2) is one of the most produced. Titanium dioxide's toxicity is estimated as low to soil organisms, but some studies have shown that TiO2 nanoparticles can cause oxidative stress. Additionally, it is known that TiO2 is activated by ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can promote photocatalytic generation of reactive oxygen species, which is seldom taken into account in toxicity testing. In the present study, the authors investigated the effects of different TiO2 and zirconium materials on the soil oligochaete Enchytraeus crypticus, using exposure via soil, water, and soil:water extracts, and studied the effects combined with UV radiation. The results showed that zirconium dioxide (bulk and nano) was not toxic, whereas zirconium tetrachloride reduced enchytraeid reproduction in soil (50% effect concentration = 502 mg/kg). The TiO2 materials were also not toxic via soil exposure or under UV radiation. However, pre-exposure to TiO2 and UV radiation via aqueous media caused a lower reproductive output post-exposure in clean soil (20–50% less but only observed at the lowest concentration tested, 1 mg/L); that is, the effect of TiO2 in water was potentiated by the UV radiation and measurable as a decrease in reproduction in soil media. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015;34:2409–2416. © 2015 SETAC
Request routing through collaborative in‐network caching for bandwidth optimization: a methodology
Authors: Xu Yuemei , Wang Zihou , Li Yang , Chen Fu , Lin Tao , Niu Wenjia
Published: May 2015

To reduce data access latency, network traffic volume and server load, in‐network caching was proposed and has become an intrinsic component of the content‐centric network (CCN) architecture. The content‐oriented characteristics of in‐network caching, such as arbitrary topology and volatile content locations, make routers content‐aware and supportive of fast content distribution. Meanwhile, they also raise new challenges in content placement and request routing, namely, how to optimally make content storage decisions and forward user requests towards a ‘best’ (e.g. closest) available content replicas, so as to minimize the bandwidth cost under storage and link capacity limit. To address this problem, we build a distributed in‐network caching model to formulate the content placement and request routing in CCN, aiming at minimizing the bandwidth cost with strict storage and bandwidth constraints. Based on the proposed model, we design a scalable, adaptive and low‐complexity in‐network caching scheme for content placement and request routing and analyse the performance gains via simulations on a real Internet Service Provider (ISP) network topology and traffic traces. The experimental results show the proposed model and scheme are superior. Compared with the existing works, we also observe significant performance enhancements in terms of hit ratio of requests, reduction of server load and bandwidth cost. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.