bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular biology, pathogenesis and pathology of mumps virus
Authors: Rubin Steven , Eckhaus Michael , Rennick Linda J , Bamford Connor GG , Duprex W Paul
Published: September 2014

Mumps is caused by the mumps virus (MuV), a member of the Paramyxoviridae family of enveloped, non‐segmented, negative‐sense RNA viruses. Mumps is characterized by painful inflammatory symptoms, such as parotitis and orchitis. The virus is highly neurotropic, with laboratory evidence of central nervous system (CNS) infection in approximately half of cases. Symptomatic CNS infection occurs less frequently; nonetheless, prior to the introduction of routine vaccination, MuV was a leading cause of aseptic meningitis and viral encephalitis in many developed countries. Despite being one of the oldest recognized diseases, with a worldwide distribution, surprisingly little attention has been given to its study. Cases of aseptic meningitis associated with some vaccine strains and a global resurgence of cases, including in highly vaccinated populations, has renewed interest in the virus, particularly in its pathogenesis and the need for development of clinically relevant models of disease. In this review we summarize the current state of knowledge on the virus, its pathogenesis and its clinical and pathological outcomes. Copyright © 2014 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Epoxy networks reinforced with TiO2 generated by nonhydrolytic sol–gel process: A comparison between in situ and ex situ syntheses to obtain filled polymers
Authors: Morselli Davide , Bondioli Federica , Sangermano Marco , Messori Massimo
Published: September 2014

Titania nanoparticles suspended in benzyl alcohol (BzOH) were generated by nonhydrolytic sol–gel process starting from titanium tetrachloride. The obtained suspensions were mixed with 3,4‐epoxycyclohexylmethyl‐3,4‐epoxycyclohexanecarboxylate epoxy resin, and the formulations were cured in the presence of ytterbium(III) trifluoromethanesulfonate as cationic initiator. The thermally activated cationic ring‐opening polymerization produced a three‐dimensional network in which the suspending medium BzOH was covalently linked to the epoxy network according to the “activated monomer” mechanism during the propagation step. The presence of titania nanoparticles resulted in a reinforcing and stiffening effect due to both their hydrodynamic effect and, most important, a significantly higher cross‐linking density of the composite material with respect to the unfilled epoxy resin. A comparison with similar composites obtained by physical incorporation of preformed titania particles was also reported in order to compare the in situ and ex situ filler generation for preparing nanocomposites. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 55:1689–1697, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
An amazing semiconductor choice for high‐frequency FET: H‐terminated polycrystalline diamond film prepared by DC arc jet CVD
Authors: Li C. M. , Liu J. L. , Chen L. X. , Wei J. J. , Hei L. F. , Wang J. J. , Feng Z. H. , Guo3 H.
Published: September 2014

With the development of information and communication technology, conventional semiconductors such as Si and GaAs cannot satisfy the requirement of high‐frequency and high‐power electronic devices. By contrast, diamond film has been considered to be a potential material alternative due to the highest Johnson and Keyse figures of merit. In this paper, H‐terminated polycrystalline diamond films with different quality were prepared by DC arc jet CVD through adjusting the deposition conditions. The conductive behaviour of p‐type channel on H‐terminated diamond surface was compared and analyzed based on the N‐related impurity and spontaneous polarization model. After that, MESFETs (metal‐semi‐conductor field effect transistor) were fabricated on H‐terminated diamond and the radio frequency (RF) performance was evaluated. The cut off frequency (fT) of 11 GHz and the maximum oscillation frequency (fmax) of 18.5 GHz for MESFET in our situation were obtained. It was found that equivalent circuit elements were lower or comparable with the reported values for the FETs with the highest fT and fmax except the gate capacitance, which indicates that the carrier mobility should be improved further for high‐frequency devices application. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The Role of Academic‐Language Features for Reading Comprehension of Language‐Minority Students and Students From Low‐SES Families
Authors: Heppt Birgit , Haag Nicole , Böhme Katrin , Stanat Petra
Published: September 2014

Academic language is frequently assumed to be especially challenging for students from families of low socioeconomic status (SES) and even more so for language‐minority students. Due to their often especially disadvantaged position regarding socioeconomic background and exposure to the language of instruction, language minority students are considered to suffer from a double disadvantage when processing complex academic language. To test this assumption, the present study investigated the relationships between various academic language features and differential item functioning (DIF) in a reading comprehension test for language‐minority students on the one hand and German monolingual students from low‐SES families on the other hand. The analyses are based on data of 19,108 fourth‐grade students who took part in the reading comprehension test of the German National Assessment Study in elementary school. Our findings indicate that both lexical and grammatical features of academic language correlate with DIF disfavoring language‐minority students, with especially pronounced effects for long and complex words and average sentence length. For German monolingual students from low‐SES families, fewer features were associated with DIF, and the correlations were generally smaller than for language‐minority students. Findings are discussed in relation to the assumed double disadvantage of language‐minority students in the comprehension of academic language.
Scanning Tunneling Microscopy/Spectroscopy on Perovskite Oxide Thin Films Deposited In Situ
Authors: Hitosugi Taro , Shimizu Ryota , Ohsawa Takeo , Iwaya Katsuya
Published: September 2014

Complex oxide surfaces and interfaces, consisting of two or more cations and oxygen anions, have attracted a great deal of attention because their properties are crucial factors in the performance of catalysts, fuel cells, and Li‐ion batteries. However, atomic‐scale investigations of these oxide surfaces have been hindered because of the difficulties in surface preparation. Here, we demonstrate atomic‐scale surface studies of complex perovskite oxides and the initial growth processes in oxide epitaxial films deposited on (✓13 × ✓13)‐R33.7° reconstructed SrTiO3(001) substrates using a scanning tunneling microscope integrated with a pulsed laser deposition system. The atomically ordered, reconstructed SrTiO3(001) surface is stable under the typical conditions necessary for the growth of oxide thin films, and hence is considered suitable for the study of the initial growth processes in oxide films. The atomic‐scale microscopic/spectroscopic characterizations performed here shed light on the microscopic origin of electronic properties observed in complex oxides and their heterostructures.
Detection of pathogenic Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis using water filtration, animal and bait testing
Authors: Wimsatt Jeffrey , Feldman Sanford H. , Heffron Meghan , Hammond Meagan , Ruehling Margaret P. Roth , Grayson Kristine L. , Mitchell Joseph C.
Published: September 2014

The pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) can be challenging to detect at endangered amphibian reintroduction sites. Pre‐release Bd detection can be confounded by imperfect animal sampling and the absence of animals. In Study 1, we used historical Bd‐positive sites, to concurrently evaluate water filtrates and mouth bar (tadpoles) or skin swab (caudates) samples for Bd using molecular beacon realtime PCR. In Study 2, during a natural outbreak, we used PCR to detect Bd from zoospore‐attracting keratin baits (three avian, three snake species). In Study 1, no captured animals (n = 116) exhibited clinical signs, although 10.6% were positive, representing three of seven species sampled. In contrast, 5.4% of water filters (n = 56) were Bd‐positive. In Study 2, after short incubation times, a single duck down feather tested Bd‐positive. In conclusion, Bd was detected in asymptomatic amphibians and water filtrate at two sites, and from water only, at two other sites. With continued refinement, semi‐quantitative Bd water filtrate screening could better define zoospore‐specific disease risk, allowing better characterization of the free‐living phase of the organism's life cycle. Finally, these results suggest wild aquatic birds (e.g., waterfowl) should be systematically explored as a means of Bd spread. Since large numbers of aquatic birds migrate, even low Bd transfer rates could be a significant means for disease dissemination. Zoo Biol. 33:577–585, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals Inc.
Mistranslation of the genetic code
Authors: Moghal Adil , Mohler Kyle , Ibba Michael
Published: September 2014

During mRNA decoding at the ribosome, deviations from stringent codon identity, or “mistranslation,” are generally deleterious and infrequent. Observations of organisms that decode some codons ambiguously, and the discovery of a compensatory increase in mistranslation frequency to combat environmental stress have changed the way we view “errors” in decoding. Modern tools for the study of the frequency and phenotypic effects of mistranslation can provide quantitative and sensitive measurements of decoding errors that were previously inaccessible. Mistranslation with non‐protein amino acids, in particular, is an enticing prospect for new drug therapies and the study of molecular evolution.
Sublingual misoprostol as an adjunct to oxytocin during cesarean delivery in women at risk of postpartum hemorrhage
Authors: Chaudhuri Picklu , Majumdar Arindam
Published: September 2014

Objective

To evaluate whether a combination of misoprostol and oxytocin more effectively reduces blood loss during and after cesarean delivery than does oxytocin alone among women with known risk factors for postpartum hemorrhage (PPH).

Methods

A prospective, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial was performed at a tertiary care center in Kolkata, India, between October 2012 and December 2013. Women were eligible if they were undergoing emergency cesarean under spinal anesthesia and were at high risk for PPH. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive 400 μg misoprostol or matched placebo sublingually after delivery of the newborn using a computer‐generated random number sequence (block size eight). Participants and providers were masked to assignment. All participants received 20 IU oxytocin. The primary outcomes were intraoperative and postoperative blood loss.

Results

Both groups contained 198 women. Mean intraoperative blood loss was significantly lower in the misoprostol group (505.4 ± 215.5 mL) than in the placebo group (587.3 ± 201.5 mL; P < 0.001). Mean postoperative blood loss was slightly lower in the misoprostol group (96.9 ± 57.3 mL) than in the placebo group (103.4 ± 58.4 mL; P = 0.07). Shivering and pyrexia were more frequently associated with misoprostol (P < 0.05 for both).

Conclusion

Misoprostol as an adjunct to oxytocin seemed to more effectively reduce blood loss than did oxytocin alone.

Clinical Trial Registry India: CTRI/2013/05/003645.
A comparative case study of sustaining quality as a competitive advantage
Authors: Su Hung‐Chung , Linderman Kevin , Schroeder Roger G. , Van de Ven Andrew H.
Published: September 2014

Many organizations have achieved high levels of quality performance only to lose it later on. These firms that were once quality leaders can no longer compete on the quality of their products or services. This research develops a theoretical understanding of how organizations can sustain a quality advantage. It offers a conceptual definition of sustaining a quality advantage which involves not only sustaining a high level of quality performance, but also sustaining a high consistency of quality performance. A comparative case study provides evidence of three capabilities that distinguish firms with different levels of sustaining quality. These capabilities include: (1) meta‐learning, (2) sensing weak signals, and (3) resilience to quality disruptions. The case analysis argues that meta‐learning helps sustain a high level of quality performance, while sensing weak signals and resilience improves the consistency of quality performance. This study offers a dynamic capability‐based strategy that explains how to sustain a competitive advantage in quality, which may also have implications for sustaining other operational competitive advantages.
Linking strategic flexibility and operational efficiency: The mediating role of ambidextrous operational capabilities
Authors: Kortmann Sebastian , Gelhard Carsten , Zimmermann Carsten , Piller Frank T.
Published: September 2014

We elucidate the important, though complex, relationship between strategic flexibility and operational efficiency. We incorporate insights from the dynamic resource‐based view, ambidexterity literature and managerial practice to explain how two ambidextrous operational capabilities, i.e., mass customization capability and innovative ambidexterity, fully mediate the relationship between strategic flexibility and operational efficiency. Using top‐level executive data in India and the United States of America, our structural equation models show that ambidextrous operational capabilities link strategic flexibility and operational efficiency. While informing the debate on developing sustainable competitive advantage, we derive important theoretical and managerial implications for both operations management and strategic management.
Geen Grenzen Meer: An American Musical's Unlimited Border Crossing
Authors: MACDONALD LAURA , HALMAN MYRTE
Published: September 2014

Since its 2003 Broadway debut,Wicked's international audiences have embraced productions of the musical in a variety of countries.Wickedhas thus conquered the world with its ideological framework of American values, as much as with its story of friendship between two young women. In transcending national borders,Wickedbecomes a transnational commodity. We interview Dutch actress Willemijn Verkaik, who discusses her multiple, multilingual and transnational performances as Elphaba inWicked, and analyse Dutch–American relations and the Netherlands’ lasting role as cultural middleman, suggesting that Verkaik's multinational Elphabas, constructed through a Dutch filter, make her a cultural diplomat, one consistent with the Netherlands’ larger role since the Pilgrims migrated there prior to crossing the Atlantic. The pilgrimages made by the actress, as well as by her international fan base, offer insight intoWicked's powerful position in constructing identities and communities that may no longer be bound by borders.
Sudden cardiac death in the young: the bogeyman
Authors: Durante Alessandro , Laforgia Pietro L. , Aurelio Andrea , Foglia-Manzillo Giovanni , Bronzato Sofia , Santarone Mauro , Corrado Giovanni
Published: September 2014

Sudden cardiac death in the young is a relatively uncommon but marked event usually related to congenital diseases or anomalies. Despite the prevalence of each condition being variable, most common causes include primary myocardial diseases and arrhythmic disorder, frequently with inheritance pattern. Sudden cardiac death is usually preceded by symptoms, thus making personal and family history fundamental for its prevention. Nevertheless, in more than 50% of cases, sudden cardiac death is the first manifestation of the disease. In this review, we describe the different causes of sudden cardiac death, their incidence, and currently used preventive strategies.
EDUCATION, INEQUALITY, AND DEVELOPMENT IN A DUAL ECONOMY
Authors: Yuki Kazuhiro
Published: September 2014

This paper develops a dynamic dual-economy model and examines how the long-run outcome of an economy depends on the initial distribution of wealth and sectoral productivity. It is shown that, for fast transformation into a developed economy, the initial distribution must be such that extreme poverty is not prevalent so that most people can take education to acquire basic skills and the size of the “middle class” is large enough so that an adequate number of people can access education to acquire advanced skills. Both conditions seem to have held in successful East Asian nations, where, as in the model economy undergoing such transformation, the fraction of workers with advanced skills rose greatly and inequalities between these workers and others fell over time. In contrast, if the former condition holds but the latter does not, which would be the case for many nations falling into the “middle income trap,” consistent with facts, the fraction of workers with basic skills and the share of the modern sector rise, but inequality between workers with advanced skills and with basic skills worsens and the traditional sector persists for long periods. If the former condition does not hold, which would be true for the poorest economies, the dual structure and high inequality between workers without basic skills and others persist for very long periods. Consistently, Hanushek and Woessmann (2012) [Hanushek, Eric A. and Ludger Woessmann (2012) Do better schools lead to more growth? Cognitive skills, economic outcomes, and causation.Journal of Economic Growth17, 267–321] find that the share of students with basic skills and that of top performance have significant effects on economic growth that arecomplementary to each other.
THE CANNIBALIZED CAREER OF LIBERALISM IN COLONIAL INDIA
Authors: BOSE NEILESH
Published: September 2014

The interpretation of liberalism as a project that not only masks, but enables, political domination has long held currency in South Asian historiography. Recently, the subject of liberalism and empire in both francophone and anglophone contexts has returned to discussions in broader imperial historiography. One especially pressing question that emerges from these approaches is how to analyze intellectuals of colonized countries, such as India, who themselves claimed liberal terminologies and pressed forth liberal arguments. Are they to be assessed by the same criteria as European liberals who argued for the rights of the individual, the free press, and individual property rights?
Trends in disguise
Authors: Brazauskas Vytaras , Jones Bruce L. , Zitikis Ričardas
Published: September 2014

Human longevity is changing, but at what rate? Insurance claims are increasing, but at what rate? Are the trends that we glean from data true or illusionary? The shocking fact is that true trends might be quite different from those that we actually see from visualised data. Indeed, in some situations the upward trends (e.g. inflation) may even look decreasing (e.g. deflation). In this paper, we discuss this “trends in disguise” phenomenon in detail and offer a way for estimating true trends.
The Implications of the Acquisition of a New Nationality for the Right of Return of Palestinian Refugees
Authors: MASRI Mazen
Published: September 2014

This paper examines the legal consequences of the acquisition of a new nationality for the right of return of Palestinian refugees. The paper argues that since the right of return is independent of refugee status, the cessation of the latter should not necessarily abrogate the former. By examining the underpinnings of the right of return to one's own country, especially the link between the individual and her territory, this paper argues that this link is somehow weakened in a situation of naturalization in a different country. However, this weakening of the link should not automatically lead to the deprivation of rights. The circumstances that lead refugees to leave their country of origin, the circumstances preventing their return, and the decisions made by the individuals in view of their available options, should be examined.
Community psychiatry's achievements
Authors: Burns T.
Published: September 2014

Mental health care in the second half of the 20th century in much of the developed world has been dominated by the move out from large asylums. Both in response to this move and to make it possible, a pattern of care has evolved which is most commonly referred to as ‘Community Psychiatry’. This narrative review describes this process, from local experimentation into the current era of evidence-based mental health care. It focuses on three main areas of this development: (i) the reprovision of care for those discharged during deinstitutionalisation; (ii) the evolution and evaluation of its characteristic feature the Community Mental Health Team; and (iii) the increasing sophistication of psychosocial interventions developed to support patients. It finishes with an overview of some current challenges.
Facile tandem Suzuki coupling/transfer hydrogenation reaction with a bis-heteroscorpionate Pd–Ru complex
Authors: Dehury Niranjan , Tripathy Suman Kumar , Sahoo Anupam , Maity Niladri , Patra Srikanta
Published: September 2014

A bis-heteroscorpionate Pd–Ru complex (1) is developed which shows efficient tandem Suzuki coupling/transfer hydrogenation reaction towards a broad range of substrates.
Increasing the dyeability of polyester fabrics by photochemical treatment at room-temperature using H2O2in air
Authors: Ouchi Akihiko , Liu Chuanxiang , Kunioka Masao
Published: September 2014

An increase in the dyeability of poly(ethylene terephthalate) fabrics was accomplished by irradiation of the fabrics using a germicidal lamp and H2O2at room-temperature in air.
Direct elemental analysis of honeys by atmospheric pressure glow discharge generated in contact with a flowing liquid cathode
Authors: Greda Krzysztof , Jamroz Piotr , Dzimitrowicz Anna , Pohl Pawel
Published: September 2014

Miniaturized atmospheric pressure glow discharge with a flowing liquid cathode was used for the elemental analysis (Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Na, Rb and Zn) of honeys by OES. A simplified sample preparation procedure was proposed and samples of honeys were only dissolved in water and acidified with HCl.
Structures, chemotaxonomic significance, cytotoxic and Na+,K+-ATPase inhibitory activities of new cardenolides from Asclepias curassavica
Authors: Zhang Rong-Rong , Tian Hai-Yan , Tan Ya-Fang , Chung Tse-Yu , Sun Xiao-Hui , Xia Xue , Ye Wen-Cai , Middleton David A. , Fedosova Natalya , Esmann Mikael , Tzen Jason T. C. , Jiang Ren-Wang
Published: September 2014

New cardenolides with potent cytotoxic and Na+,K+-ATPase inhibitory activities were isolated from the ornamental milkweed Asclepias curassavica.
Synthesis of substituted quinolines via allylic amination and intramolecular Heck-coupling
Authors: Murru Siva , McGough Brandon , Srivastava Radhey S.
Published: September 2014

New catalytic approach to access substituted quinolines and naphthyridines via allylic C–H amination followed by intramolecular Heck-coupling and aerobic dehydrogenation.
Original access to 5-aryluracils from 5-iodo-2′-deoxyuridine via a microwave assisted Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling/deglycosylation sequence in pure water
Authors: Lussier T. , Hervé G. , Enderlin G. , Len C.
Published: September 2014

A facile and efficient methodology to obtain various 5-aryluracil derivatives was developed through a two steps sequence: a ligand-free Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reaction starting from totally deprotected 5-iodo-(2′-deoxy)uridine followed by a very simple deglycosylation procedure in pure water with assistance of microwave irradiation.
Insertion of isatin molecules into the nanostructure of palygorskite
Authors: Zhou Wei , Liu Hong , Xu Tingting , Jin Yeling , Ding Shijie , Chen Jing
Published: September 2014

Heat treatment driven isatin inserted into the nanostructure of palygorskite, endowing the hybrid with good stability.
Synergistic effect of microwave irradiation and conjugated polymeric catalyst in the facile degradation of dyes
Authors: Riaz Ufana , Ashraf S. M.
Published: September 2014

Degradation of Orange G under controlled conditions using microwave irradiation.
Interfacial Dzialoshinskii–Moriya interaction induced nonreciprocity of spin waves in magnonic waveguides
Authors: Ma Fusheng , Zhou Yan
Published: September 2014

Nonreciprocal spin wave propagation in magnonic waveguides with the presence of interfacial Dzialoshinskii–Moriya interaction: different frequencies, amplitudes, and mode profiles.
Red Mud waste from the Bayer process as a catalyst for the desulfurization of hydrocarbon fuels
Authors: Cristina de Resende Eliane , Carvalho Iara do Rosário Guimarães , Schlaf Marcel , Guerreiro Mário César
Published: September 2014

The management of Red Mud generated as a waste by-product of bauxite processing in the aluminum industry is key to the long-term sustainability of alumina production.
Droplet detection: simplification and optimization of detecting conditions towards high sensitivity quantitative determination of melamine in milk without any pretreatment
Authors: Lin Xiang , Hasi Wu-Li-Ji , Lou Xiu-Tao , Lin Shuang , Yang Fang , Jia Bao-Shen , Lin Dian-Yang , Lu Zhi-Wei
Published: September 2014

Trace melamine can be quantitatively detected without any sample pretreatment using a new SERS measurement configuration.
l-Proline mediated synthesis of quinoxalines; evaluation of cytotoxic and antimicrobial activity
Authors: Kamal Ahmed , Babu Korrapati Suresh , Faazil Shaikh , Hussaini S. M. Ali , Shaik Anver Basha
Published: September 2014

A simple, greener and highly efficient method for the synthesis of functionalized quinoxalines has been developed employingl-proline as a catalyst in water. The newly synthesized quinoxaline–sulphonamide conjugates exhibited significant cytotoxic and antimicrobial activities.
Magnetic metrology for iron oxide nanoparticle scaled-up synthesis
Authors: Milosevic Irena , Warmont Fabienne , Lalatonne Yoann , Motte Laurence
Published: September 2014

The formation of iron oxide NPs in scaled-up conditions is monitored in situ using a handled magnetic portable sensor.
pH- and electro-response characteristics of bacterial cellulose nanofiber/sodium alginate hybrid hydrogels for dual controlled drug delivery
Authors: Shi Xiangning , Zheng Yudong , Wang Guojie , Lin Qinghua , Fan Jinsheng
Published: September 2014

An ionic crosslinking nanocellulose/sodium alginate (BC/SA) hybrid hydrogel was prepared as a dual-stimuli responsive release system. The drug release rate of BC/SA hybrid hydrogels in vitro not only depend on pH value but also depend on the presence of electric stimulus.
Practical organic solvent-free Cu(OAc)2/DMAP/TEMPO-catalyzed aldehyde and imine formation from alcohols under air atmosphere
Authors: Guan Mingyu , Wang Chao , Zhang Jingyu , Zhao Yingsheng
Published: September 2014

A highly efficient and practical organic solvent-free Cu(OAc)2/DMAP/TEMPO catalyst system for the selective aerobic oxidation of benzylic and allylic alcohols to aldehydes and phenones under an ambient air atmosphere was reported.
Target discovery of acivicin in cancer cells elucidates its mechanism of growth inhibition
Authors: Kreuzer Johannes , Bach Nina C. , Forler Daniel , Sieber Stephan A.
Published: September 2014

Using a chemical proteomic strategy we analyzed the targets of acivicin and provided a mechanistic explanation for its inhibition of cancer cell growth.
Extremely strong tubular stacking of aromatic oligoamide macrocycles
Authors: Kline Mark A. , Wei Xiaoxi , Horner Ian J. , Liu Rui , Chen Shuang , Chen Si , Yung Ka Yi , Yamato Kazuhiro , Cai Zhonghou , Bright Frank V. , Zeng Xiao Cheng , Gong Bing
Published: September 2014

Aromatic oligoamide macrocycles 3 undergo extremely strong stacking in both solution and the solid state, forming tubular assemblies that further aggregate.
Arp2/3 complex regulates adipogenesis by controlling cortical actin remodelling
Authors: Yang Wulin , Thein Shermaine , Lim Chun-Yan , Ericksen Russell E. , Sugii Shigeki , Xu Feng , Robinson Robert C. , Kim Jae Bum , Han Weiping
Published: September 2014

Extensive actin cytoskeleton remodelling occurs during adipocyte development. We have previously shown that disruption of stress fibres by the actin-severing protein cofilin is a requisite step in adipogenesis. However, it remains unclear whether actin nucleation and assembly into the cortical structure are essential for adipocyte development. In the present study we investigated the role of cortical actin assembly and of actin nucleation by the actin-related protein 2/3 (Arp2/3) complex in adipogenesis. Cortical actin structure formation started with accumulation of filamentous actin (F-actin) patches near the plasma membrane during adipogenesis. Depletion of Arp2/3 by knockdown of its subunits Arp3 or ARPC3 strongly impaired adipocyte differentiation, although adipogenesis-initiating factors were unaffected. Moreover, the assembly of F-actin-rich structures at the plasma membrane was suppressed and the cortical actin structure poorly developed after adipogenic induction in Arp2/3-deficient cells. Finally, we provide evidence that the cortical actin cytoskeleton is essential for efficient glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) vesicle exocytosis and insulin signal transduction. These results show that the Arp2/3 complex is an essential regulator of adipocyte development through control of the formation of cortical actin structures, which may facilitate nutrient uptake and signalling events.
A novel fluorescent sensor protein for detecting changes in airway surface liquid glucose concentration
Authors: Helassa Nordine , Garnett James P. , Farrant Matthew , Khan Faaizah , Pickup John C. , Hahn Klaus M. , MacNevin Christopher J. , Tarran Robert , Baines Deborah L.
Published: September 2014

Both lung disease and elevation of blood glucose are associated with increased glucose concentration (from 0.4 to ~4.0 mM) in the airway surface liquid (ASL). This perturbation of ASL glucose makes the airway more susceptible to infection by respiratory pathogens. ASL is minute (~1 μl/cm2) and the measurement of glucose concentration in the small volume ASL is extremely difficult. Therefore, we sought to develop a fluorescent biosensor with sufficient sensitivity to determine glucose concentrations in ASL in situ. We coupled a range of environmentally sensitive fluorophores to mutated forms of a glucose/galactose-binding protein (GBP) including H152C and H152C/A213R and determined their equilibrium binding properties. Of these, GBP H152C/A213R–BADAN (Kd 0.86±0.01 mM, Fmax/F0 3.6) was optimal for glucose sensing and in ASL increased fluorescence when basolateral glucose concentration was raised from 1 to 20 mM. Moreover, interpolation of the data showed that the glucose concentration in ASL was increased, with results similar to that using glucose oxidase analysis. The fluorescence of GBP H152C/A213R–BADAN in native ASL from human airway epithelial cultures in situ was significantly increased over time when basolateral glucose was increased from 5 to 20 mM. Overall our data indicate that this GBP is a useful tool to monitor glucose homoeostasis in the lung.
Broadband microwave crossover using parallel‐coupled microstrip lines and short‐ended stubs
Authors: Zhu He , Wang Yifan , Abbosh Amin M.
Published: September 2014

A broadband microwave crossover with planar structure and compact size is proposed. It is composed of four pairs of parallel‐coupled microstrip lines terminated with short‐ended stubs. The utilised structure is analysed using a second‐order even/odd‐mode method, which shows that the centre frequency and bandwidth of the passband are defined by the length and coupling factor of the coupled lines, respectively. The proposed design is verified using both full‐wave simulations as well as experiments on two prototypes. The achieved results of the two designs indicate fractional bandwidths of 12.5 and 25% with less than 0.8 dB of insertion loss, more than 17 dB of return loss, more than 18 and 12 dB of isolation and a flat group delay with less than 0.4 ns of deviation.
New design of compact dual band‐notch ultra‐wideband bandpass filter based on coupled wave canceller inverted T‐shaped stubs
Authors: Mohammadi Bahman , Valizade Arash , Rezaei Pejman , Nourinia Javad
Published: September 2014

The procedure of attaining a compact bandpass filter (BPF) with dual band‐notch function for ultra‐wideband (UWB) applications is presented and discussed. In the proposed BPF, defected ground structure is used in order to improve the out‐of‐band performance of the filter. Also, four short‐circuited bent stubs are employed in order to improve the selectivity of the filter at its cutoff frequencies. Dual band‐notch function is added to the performance of the filter by coupling two short‐circuited inverted T‐shaped stubs to the filter main resonator. The fabricated filter satisfies well the demands of the Federal Communications Committee with two narrow band‐notch functions at 5.5 and 8 GHz, which eliminates the interference of the UWB system with wireless local area network (WLAN) and satellite communication systems, respectively. The improved upper stop‐band of the proposed filter with more than 20 dB attenuation level extends up to 20 GHz.
Design and fluid–structure interaction analysis of a micromachined cantilever‐based differential pressure flow sensor
Authors: Chen Pei , Zhao Yulong , Tian Bian , Li Yiyao
Published: September 2014

A micromachined cantilever‐based flow sensor is designed based on differential pressure. Numerical analysis and analogue simulation are used to investigate the FSI (fluid–structure interaction) characteristics of the differential pressure flow sensor. The FSI model is created using the hydromechanics and elastic mechanics, and a systematic theory is established to complete the numerical analysis. Then the working mechanism of the flow sensor is analysed depending on the FSI results. The analogue simulation is undertaken by the commercial software FLUENT and ANSYS. The result of the numerical analysis is similar to that of the analogue simulation. Considering the results of the numerical analysis and the analogue simulation, the shape and size of the flow sensor are optimised. Moreover, the optimised flow sensor is fabricated and calibrated. The calibration results show that the cantilever‐based differential pressure flow sensor achieves ideal static characteristics and works well in practical applications.
Numerical simulations of light‐extraction efficiencies of light‐emitting diodes on micro and nanopatterned sapphire substrates
Authors: Cui Hao , Park Si‐Hyun
Published: September 2014

Numerical simulations are performed to investigate the light‐extraction efficiencies (LEEs) of gallium nitride‐based light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) on patterned sapphire substrates (PSSs), using the three‐dimensional finite‐difference time‐domain method. PSSs with hexagonal arrays of cone‐shaped patterns were used, and the pitch of the pattern array, pattern fill factor and pattern height were varied from nanoscale to microscale. The relative LEE for each PSS‐LED was calculated, and the geometrical parameters were analysed for optimised light extraction enhancement of the PSS‐LEDs.
Characterization of multielectron dynamics in molecules: A multiconfiguration time-dependent Hartree-Fock picture
Authors: Ohmura Shu , Kono Hirohiko , Oyamada Takayuki , Kato Tsuyoshi , Nakai Katsunori , Koseki Shiro
Published: September 2014

Using the framework of multiconfiguration theory, where the wavefunction Φ(t) of a many-electron system at time t is expanded as $\Phi (t) = \sum\nolimits_I {C_I (t)\Phi _I (t)} $Φ(t)=∑ICI(t)ΦI(t) in terms of electron configurations {ΦI(t)}, we divided the total electronic energy E(t) as $E (t) = \sum\nolimits_I\vert {C_I (t)\vert^2 E_I (t)} $E(t)=∑I|CI(t)|2EI(t) . Here EI(t) is the instantaneous phase changes of CI(t) regarded as a configurational energy associated with ΦI(t). We then newly defined two types of time-dependent states: (i) a state at which the rates of population transfer among configurations are all zero; (ii) a state at which {EI(t)} associated with the quantum phases of CI(t) are all the same. We call the former time-dependent state a classical stationary state by analogy with the stationary (steady) states of classical reaction rate equations and the latter one a quantum stationary state. The conditions (i) and (ii) are satisfied simultaneously for the conventional stationary state in quantum mechanics. We numerically found for a LiH molecule interacting with a near-infrared (IR) field ε(t) that the condition (i) is satisfied whenever the average velocity of electrons is zero and the condition (ii) is satisfied whenever the average acceleration is zero. We also derived the chemical potentials μj(t) for time-dependent natural orbitals ϕj(t) of a many-electron system. The analysis of the electron dynamics of LiH indicated that the temporal change in Δμj(t) ≡ μj(t) + ε(t) · dj(t) − μj(0) correlates with the motion of the dipole moment of ϕj(t), dj(t). The values Δμj(t) are much larger than the energy ζj(t) directly supplied to ϕj(t) by the field, suggesting that valence electrons exchange energy with inner shell electrons. For H2 in an intense near-IR field, the ionization efficiency of ϕj(t) is correlated with Δμj(t). Comparing Δμj(t) to ζj(t), we found that energy accepting orbitals of Δμj(t) > ζj(t) indicate high ionization efficiency. The difference between Δμj(t) and ζj(t) is significantly affected by electron-electron interactions in real time.
Dirac approach to constrained submanifolds in a double loop group: From Wess-Zumino-Novikov-Witten to Poisson-Lie σ-model
Authors: Montani H. , Zuccalli M.
Published: September 2014

We study the restriction to a family of second class constrained submanifolds in the cotangent bundle of a double Lie group equipped with a 2-cocycle extended symplectic form to build the corresponding Dirac brackets. It is shown that, for 2-cocycle vanishing on each isotropic subspace of the associated Manin triple, the Dirac bracket contains no traces of the cocycle. We also investigate the restriction of the left translation action of the double Lie group on its cotangent bundle, where it fails to be a canonical transformation. However, the Hamiltonian symmetry is restored on some special submanifolds. The main application is to loop groups, showing that a WZNW-type model on the double Lie group with a quadratic Hamilton function in the momentum maps associated with the left translation action on the cotangent bundle with the canonical symplectic form, restricts to a collective system on some special submanifolds. There, the Lagrangian version coincides with the so-called Poisson-Lie σ -model.
Theoretical model for plasma expansion generated by hypervelocity impact
Authors: Ju Yuanyuan , Zhang Qingming , Zhang Dongjiang , Long Renrong , Chen Li , Huang Fenglei , Gong Zizheng
Published: September 2014

The hypervelocity impact experiments of spherical LY12 aluminum projectile diameter of 6.4 mm on LY12 aluminum target thickness of 23 mm have been conducted using a two-stage light gas gun. The impact velocity of the projectile is 5.2, 5.7, and 6.3 km/s, respectively. The experimental results show that the plasma phase transition appears under the current experiment conditions, and the plasma expansion consists of accumulation, equilibrium, and attenuation. The plasma characteristic parameters decrease as the plasma expands outward and are proportional with the third power of the impact velocity, i.e., (Te, ne) ∝ vp3. Based on the experimental results, a theoretical model on the plasma expansion is developed and the theoretical results are consistent with the experimental data.
Interfacial degradation effects of aqueous solution-processed molybdenum trioxides on the stability of organic solar cells evaluated by a differential method
Authors: Lou Yan-Hui , Wang Zhao-Kui , Yuan Da-Xing , Okada Hiroyuki , Liao Liang-Sheng
Published: September 2014

The authors investigate the influence of two hole interfacial materials poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly (styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) and aqueous solution-processed MoO3 (sMoO3) on cell stability. sMoO3-based device demonstrated obviously improved stability compared to PEDOT:PSS-based one. Current-voltage characteristics analysis is carried out to investigate the effect of the hole interfacial layers on the cell stability. The formation of additional trap states at the interfaces between the hole interfacial layer and the active layer in degraded devices is verified by a differential method. Improved cell stability is attributed to a relatively stable sMoO3 interfacial layer compared to PEDOT:PSS by comparing their different trap states distributions.
Comparison of water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) with crossbred and purebred Brahman cattle for growth performance on savannah and slaughter traits at four ages in Venezuela
Authors: Rodas-González A. , Huerta-Leidenz N. , Vidal A. , Colina O. , Lopez J. , Rodriguez R.
Published: September 2014

Males (n = 132) of water buffalo (Buffalo), Brahman crossbred and purebred cattle (Brahman) were born, raised, weaned, castrated (half of the animals at 7 months) and fattened on the same grazing savannahs, and then slaughtered at four different ages (7, 17, 19 and 24 months) to compare growth and slaughter traits and examine post-weaning castration effects. Buffalo showed consistently faster weight gains and heavier carcasses but had lower dressing percentages than Brahman cattle due to higher proportions of hide, head, and red and white viscera at each age (P < 0.05). Additionally, Buffalo had abundant fat cover distribution, and whiter subcutaneous fat than Brahman (P < 0.05), this resulted in a higher proportion of Buffalo carcasses that graded in the second quality Venezuelan grade ‘A’ (P < 0.05). Regardless of species, bulls had higher average daily gain and liveweight than steers (P < 0.05); however, no differences were detected in carcass weight and dressing percentages (P > 0.05). Also, at the same weight steers produced carcasses with thicker back fat, more abundant fat cover distribution and whiter fat than bulls (P < 0.05). With respect to age groups, there were concomitant increases in slaughter weight, carcass weight, and dressing percentage as age increased (P < 0.01). As age advanced, carcasses had a more convex leg profile, abundant fat cover, thicker back fat, higher marbling and greater REA (P < 0.05). Based on the observed growth and carcass traits, Buffalo offer a promising alternative for meat production under savannah feeding production systems.
Communicating science-based recommendations with memorable and actionable guidelines
Authors: Ratner Rebecca K. , Riis Jason
Published: September 2014

For many domains of basic and applied science, a key set of scientific facts is well established and there is a need for public action in light of those facts. However, individual citizens do not consistently follow science-based recommendations, even when they accept the veracity of the advice. To address this challenge, science communicators need to develop a guideline that individuals can commit to memory easily and act on straightforwardly at moments of decision. We draw on research from psychology to discuss several characteristics that will enhance a guideline’s memorability and actionability and illustrate using a case study from the US Department of Agriculture’s communications based on nutrition science. We conclude by discussing the importance of careful research to test whether any given guideline is memorable and actionable by the intended target audience.
Ecological and evolutionary significance of genomic GC content diversity in monocots
Authors: Šmarda Petr , Bureš Petr , Horová Lucie , Leitch Ilia J. , Mucina Ladislav , Pacini Ettore , Tichý Lubomír , Grulich Vít , Rotreklová Olga
Published: September 2014

Significance

Our large-scale survey of genomic nucleotide composition across monocots has enabled the first rigorous testing, to our knowledge, of its biological significance in plants. We show that genomic DNA base composition (GC content) is significantly associated with genome size and holocentric chromosomal structure. GC content may also have deep ecological relevance, because changes in GC content may have played a significant role in the evolution of Earth’s biota, especially the rise of grass-dominated biomes during the mid-Tertiary. The discovery of several groups with very unusual GC contents highlights the need for in-depth analysis to uncover the full extent of genomic diversity. Furthermore, our stratified sampling method of distribution data and quantile regression-like logic of phylogenetic analyses may find wider applications in the analysis of spatially heterogeneous data.
Network measures predict neuropsychological outcome after brain injury
Authors: Warren David E. , Power Jonathan D. , Bruss Joel , Denburg Natalie L. , Waldron Eric J. , Sun Haoxin , Petersen Steven E. , Tranel Daniel
Published: September 2014

Significance

Thought depends on the brain, and cognitive neuroscience has shown that different sets of brain regions (systems) support different cognitive abilities. We hypothesized that complex cognition might be especially supported by hub brain locations that participate in many such systems. We studied neurological patients with focal brain lesions, and found that damage to hub locations produced much greater cognitive impairment than damage to other locations. This work may improve the understanding of outcomes of brain injuries (from, e.g., stroke, resection, or trauma) and help inform prognosis and rehabilitation efforts.
Giant and switchable surface activity of liquid metal via surface oxidation
Authors: Khan Mohammad Rashed , Eaker Collin B. , Bowden Edmond F. , Dickey Michael D.
Published: September 2014

Significance

We present a method to control the interfacial energy of a liquid metal via electrochemical deposition (or removal) of an oxide layer on its surface. Unlike conventional surfactants, this approach can tune the interfacial tension of a metal significantly (from ∼7× that of water to near zero), rapidly, and reversibly using only modest voltages. These properties can be harnessed to induce previously unidentified electrohydrodynamic phenomena for manipulating liquid metal alloys based on gallium, which may enable shape-reconfigurable metallic components in electronic, electromagnetic, and microfluidic devices without the use of toxic mercury. The results also suggest that oxides—which are ubiquitous on most metals and semiconductors—may be harnessed to lower interfacial energy between dissimilar materials.
B-1a transitional cells are phenotypically distinct and are lacking in mice deficient in IκBNS
Authors: Pedersen Gabriel K. , Àdori Monika , Khoenkhoen Sharesta , Dosenovic Pia , Beutler Bruce , Karlsson Hedestam Gunilla B.
Published: September 2014

Significance

A subpopulation of antibody-secreting cells, B-1 cells, provides early protection against several types of pathogens. Both the development and function differ between B-1 cells and the better known B-2 cells, and exclusively B-1 cells are lacking in mice deficient for the nuclear inhibitory κB protein, IκBNS. B-1 cells mature similar to B-2 cells via a transitional stage. We demonstrate here the existence of a phenotypically distinct B-1 transitional B (TrB)-cell population in the neonatal spleen of wild-type mice. This TrB-1a–cell subset was lost in the absence of IκBNS, thus revealing a requirement for intact NF-κB signaling via IκBNS during this stage of the development of B-1 cells. Learning more about the development of B-1 cells may reveal new targets for therapeutic intervention.