bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anesthesia and transport of fat snook Centropomus parallelus with the essential oil of Nectandra megapotamica(Spreng.) Mez
Authors: Tondolo Juliana Simoni Moraes , Amaral Lúcio de Paula , Simões Larissa Novaes , Garlet Quelen Iane , Schindler Bianca , Oliveira Teodoro Martins , Silva Bruno Ferreira da , Gomes Levy de Carvalho , Baldisserotto Bernardo , Mallmann Carlos Augusto , Heinzmann Berta Maria
Published: November 2013

This study analyzed the chemical composition and anesthetic potential of essential oil (EO) of Nectandra megapotamica in fat snook (Centropomus parallelus). For the extraction of EO by hydrodistillation, leaves were separated in young (EO-Y) or old (EO-O), and the chemical composition of the EOs was determined by CG-MS. The anesthetic potential was assessed by the evaluation of induction and recovery time of anesthesia and stress response from anesthesia and transport. Three experiments were carried out: i) four different concentrations of each EO were tested to evaluate anesthesia induction and recovery time; ii) two concentrations of EO-O were tested for the evaluation of its effects on stress parameters (glucose, lactate, and Na+ and K+ plasma levels) caused by anesthesia; and iii) fish were transported in plastic bags, supplied with two concentrations of EO-O for the evaluation of water quality and mortality. All experiments were performed on fish acclimated to 0 and 33 ppt salinity. The main constituents of the Y and O-EOs were bicyclogermacrene (46.5/34.6%), α-pinene (26.8/26.2%), β-pinene (7.9/12.3%), and germacrene D (9.6/9.1%). Mild sedation was achieved at 30 °L L-1(1.3-3.2 min) and deep anesthesia at 150 °L L-1(5.6-8.0 min) with both EOs. The recovery time ranged from 1-10 min. The EO-O was not able to avoid the stress of anesthesia evidenced by elevated glucose and lactate plasma levels observed in all groups. Plasma levels of Na+ and K+ were not significantly affected by treatments. During transport, the use of EO-O did not prevent deterioration in water quality and the post-transport mortality. In conclusion, the EO of N. megapotamica has anesthetic activity in fat snook, but it was not able to prevent the stress of anesthesia and transport.
Synthesis, characterization and cytotoxicity of mixed ligand Mn(II), Co(II) and Ni(II) complexes
Authors: Osman Souad , Mousa Hanan , Abdallah Yosef , Hafez Taghrid , El-Sawy Abdallah , Abdallah Mohamed , Hassan Ashraf
Published: November 2013

Complexes of the type [ML'L(OH)(H2O)] {where M= Ni(II), Co(II) or Mn(II), L'=
isatin and HL= 3-(2-phenylhydrazono)acetylacetone,
3-(2-(4-chlorophenyl)hydrazono)acetylacetone or
3-(2-(4-bromophenyl)hydrazono)-acetylacetone} have been synthesized by
equimolar reaction of a metal(II) chloride with isatin and
3-(2-(aryl)hydrazono)acetylacetone. The resulting complexes have been
characterized by elemental analyses, molar conductivity, spectral data (IR,
1H NMR, mass) and magnetic moments. Furthermore, the ligands and their metal
complexes have been screened for their cytotoxicity against different human
cancer cell lines by using SRB assay. The results showed that most of the
mixed ligand metal complexes have high cytotoxicity in comparison with the
reference drugs used.
BIOMETRIC STUDIES ON OLIGOMELIC INDIVIDUALS OF THE SPIDER TEGENARIA ATRICA (ARTHROPODA, ARACHNIDA) / BADANIA BIOMETRYCZNE OSOBNIKÓW OLIGOMELICZNYCH PAJĄKA TEGENARIA ATRICA (ARTHROPODA, ARACHNIDA)
Authors: Templin Julita , Napiórkowska Teresa
Published: November 2013

Oligomely is a type of developmental anomaly occurring in embryos of the spider Tegenaria atrica C.L. Koch under the teratogenic influence of temperature. This anomaly is of metameric origin, as it results from a disorder of metamere formation on the germ band during embryogenesis, resulting in the absence of one half or the whole metamere. In such a case, one or more appendages are missing on one or both sides of the body in a spider leaving a chorion. This anomaly induces changes both in the anatomical structure and exoskeleton of a spider (deformation of carapace and sternum). Carapace length and sternum area were measured, as well as the duration of the subsequent nymph stages of oligomelic individuals with one of the walking appendages missing (always on the right side of the body) was recorded. The consecutive nymph stages of oligomelic individuals lasted for a much shorter time compared with control specimens. This acceleration of development is probably to offset losses incurred during embryogenesis. In the early postembryogenesis, oligomelic specimens exhibited shorter carapace length and smaller surface area of the sternum compared to control individuals, which resulted from the lack of half of the metamere corresponding to the missing leg. However, in older nymph stages, a strong tendency for the faster growth of both carapace and sternum was observed, which can be defined as a compensatory growth increase making up for the losses caused by the anomaly.
A multi-dimensional contrastive study of English abstracts by native and non-native writers
Authors: Cao Yan , Xiao Richard
Published: November 2013

This article takes the multi-dimensional (MD) analysis approach to explore the textual variations between native and non-native English abstracts on the basis of a balanced corpus containing English abstracts written by native English and native Chinese writers from twelve academic disciplines. A total of 47 out of 163 linguistic features are retained after factor analysis, which underlies a seven-dimension framework representing seven communicative functions. The results show that the two types of abstracts demonstrate significant differences in five out of the seven dimensions. To be more specific, native English writers display a more active involvement and commitment in presenting their ideas than Chinese writers. They also use intensifying devices more frequently. In contrast, Chinese writers show stronger preferences for conceptual elaboration, passives and abstract noun phrases no matter whether the two types of data are examined as a whole or whether variations across disciplines are taken into account. The results are discussed in relation to the possible reasons and suggestions for English abstract writing in China. Methodologically, this study innovatively expands on Biber's (1988) MD analytical framework by integrating colligation in addition to grammatical and semantic features.
Dimensions of web registers: an exploratory multi-dimensional comparison
Authors: Titak Ashley , Roberson Audrey
Published: November 2013

In this paper, we use corpus-based, multi-dimensional analysis ( Biber, 1988 ) to investigate the structural and functional linguistic variation in online language represented by blogs, micro-blogs, workplace e-mails, discussion posts and reader comments, and online newspaper and opinion columns. The primary goal of this study is to identify the statistically co-occurring features of online language and compare their distributions across web registers. The data used in our analysis came from an exploratory corpus of online texts (containing approximately 16,501,785 words) collected from various public domains from 2006 to the present. A combined automated and manual collection of texts was conducted across registers and the resulting corpus was grammatically tagged using the Biber tagger. Results show that the four primary functional dimensions of web registers are: (1) Personal Narrative Focus versus Descriptive, Informational Production; (2) Involved, Interactive Discourse; (3) Complex Statement of Opinion; and (4) Past versus Present Orientation.
L'utilisation du fer dans l'architecture gothique : l'exemple de la cathédrale de Bourges
Authors: Ferauge Marc , Mignerey Pascal
Published: November 2013

This study, devoted to the use of iron in the cathedral of Bourges (1195-1255), was condueted under the direction Jean- Louis Taupin, chief architect for the Monuments Historiques, and within the framework of the Centre d'Études Supérieures d'Histoire et de Conservation des Monuments Anciens.

The research in situ, carried out in part with a métal detector, brought to light the use of iron at various stages of the construction in the form of chains, tie-beams, hooks, etc.

Because the lime-based mortar dried slowly, iron was used for provisional consolidation, as in the case of the chain and tie-beams in the upper triforium.

In order to increase the résistance of the masonry to the parasitic thrust of the timberwork and the flying buttresses in the absence of vaults, métal chains were placed in the thickness of the masonry of the wall carrying the gutter, to the right of the springing of the arches of the upper bays at the leveling course.

The cathedral of Bourges will surely remain an exceptional case because of the daring and almost exclusive use of métal in the élaboration of its structures.
Systemic Enterprise Architecture as Future
Authors: Saha Pallab
Published: November 2013

Governments are changing by design, necessity, and compulsion. This change is being exacerbated and shaped by megaforces that interact in a complex labyrinth of evolving nodes and connections. As a result, today’s government leaders and policy makers operate in a realm of confounding uncertainties and astounding complexities. These lead to incomplete and often non-actionable information that make decisions increasingly speculative. To unlock the grid and move forward, it is acknowledged that governments of the future have to be connected. Connected government is no utopia. It is simply a pragmatic approach to capitalize on complexity. Enterprise Architecture (EA) as a meta-discipline provides governments and leaders the means to address the twin challenges of dynamism and complexity. As governments become increasingly hyper-connected, they ought to be examined as systems, where holism, causality, heterarchy, and interrelationships are crucial to ensuring overall coherence in a state of omnipresent flux. This contrasts with the traditional fixation on efficiency and cost. Going beyond the rhetoric, this chapter demonstrates the value of amalgamating the systems approach within the EA methodology to address a national priority in Singapore, and provides insights to amplify the impact of EA by integrating creative thinking to tackle complex problems.
Growing Complexity and Transformations of the Power Sector
Authors: Tongia Rahul
Published: November 2013

Enterprise Architecture (EA) can be thought of as a powerful tool to transform electricity (distribution) utilities into more service-oriented and also economically viable enterprises, if not sustainable enterprises (spanning the so-called triple-bottom-line, viz., profits, people, planet). Developing regions (such as India) face even greater challenges than global concerns about electricity. Developing regions’ utilities are often loss making and have numerous operational challenges (including high theft and a weak/unstable grid). They also face a populace with limited means to pay (putting pressures on pricing) but also a large swath of potential consumers whom they have not yet reached. The rise of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) offers the ability to know what (and how much) is going where, with high time and geographic precision, covering not merely flows of electricity but also money, information, control, manpower, etc. More than converting data into information, it can lead to improved decision-making (“knowledge” and “wisdom”). Ultimately, harnessing ICT not only speeds up processes, but also transforms the enterprise. The widest-reaching form of EA transformation has been called a Smart Grid, an ongoing transformation of utilities worldwide. EA done right is complex, but so is electricity distribution. Instead of hiding or ignoring complexities, EA internalizes them into the decision-making process. While decision-makers cannot ignore issues of political economy, an Enterprise Architecture lens focuses on incentives, operations, and planning important for all enterprises independent of public versus private ownership.
Sensitive training through body awareness to improve the writing of patients with writer’s cramp
Authors: Waissman Flavia Quadros Boisson , Orsini Marco , Nascimento Osvaldo J.M. , Leite Marco Antônio A. , Pereira João Santos
Published: November 2013

The aim of this article is to evaluate if body awareness is important to improve the writing ability before using the splints. Twelve patients with writer’s cramp were evaluated by a specialist in movement disorders. The Burke-Fahn-Marsden Scale (BFM), the Jedynak Protocol and the Analog Pain Scale were used. The rehabilitation training was administered over an eight-week period, in two phases of four weeks each, twice a week. Each session would last 60 minutes. A significant improvement was shown, not only in the motor, but also in the pain perception, through the BFM scale, the Jedynak Protocol and the Analog Pain Scale. Therefore, we conclude that the motor training, thanks to the body awareness and immobilization by splints of the affected dystonic musculature, led to an important improvement in the writer’s cramp writing.
Evaluation of IASI derived dust aerosols characteristics over the tropical belt
Authors: Capelle V. , Chédin A. , Siméon M. , Tsamalis C. , Pierangelo C. , Pondrom M. , Armante R. , Crevoisier C. , Crepeau L. , Scott N. A.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. IASI-derived monthly mean infrared (10 μm) dust aerosol optical depth (AOD) and altitude are evaluated against ground based AERONET measurements of the 500 nm coarse mode AOD and CALIOP measurements of the altitude at 38 AERONET sites within the tropical belt (30° N–30° S). The period covered extends from July 2007 to December 2012. The evaluation goes through the analysis of Taylor diagrams and box and whiskers plots, separating situations over sea and over land. Concerning AOD, the overall correlation for the sites over sea comes to 0.88 for 713 items (IASI and AERONET monthly mean bins). The overall normalized standard deviation is of 0.96. Over land, essentially desert, correlation is of 0.74 for 582 items and the normalized standard deviation is of 0.87. This slight but significant degradation over land most probably results from the greater complexity of the surface (heterogeneity, elevation) and, to a lesser extent, to the episodic presence of dust within the boundary layer (particularly for sites close to active sources) to which IASI, as any thermal infrared sounder, is poorly sensitive contrary to AERONET. Concerning altitude over sea, correlation is of 0.78 for 925 items and the normalized standard deviation is of 1.03. Results over land, essentially over deserts, are not satisfactory for a majority of sites. To the reasons listed above for the AOD must be added the smaller IASI signal induced by the altitude compared to the signal induced by the AOD. Site by site, disparities appear that we estimate being principally due to either the insufficient number of AERONET observations throughout the period considered, to the complexity of the situation mixing several aerosol types (case of the Persian Gulf, for example), to surface heterogeneities (elevation, emissivity, etc.), or to the use of a single aerosol model ("MITR"). Results using another aerosol model with different refractive indices are presented and discussed. We conclude that the present results demonstrate the usefulness of IASI data as an additional constraint to a better knowledge of the impact of aerosols on the climate system.
The Default Spread Model: A Practical Method for Measuring Conditional Equity Risk Premium
Authors: Dobner Michael , Lindsey Joseph
Published: November 2013

Until the financial crisis of 2008, most valuation practitioners tended to use a static equity risk premium usually based on historical data. The crisis of 2008 brought with it a “flight to safety” phenomenon, which resulted in record low risk-free rates. Consequently, valuation practitioners faced the odd situation of a declining cost of equity in the context of a significantly higher risk economic environment. To resolve this dilemma, practitioners have started to accept the notion that the equity risk premium (ERP) changes over time. This notion is well supported by academic research, which shows a strong relationship between the ERP and economic cycles. However, as valuators, we still lack consistency in the measurement of a conditional ERP. As a group, we are in need of a practical, reliable, and objective method that would enable us to measure changes in ERP in a somewhat consistent manner. This article attempts to do so by presenting a method to measure the conditional ERP that is simple, objective, and, when tested historically, provides reasonable results. Our method is premised on the well-accepted theory that changes in default spreads correspond to changes in ERP.
Discounted Cash Flow and Residual Earnings Valuation: A Comparison in the Context of Valuation Disputes
Authors: Cornell Bradford
Published: November 2013

Using actual data from a disputed acquisition, this article presents a comparison of two related income approaches to valuation—discounted cash flow (DCF) and residual earnings (RE). Although the DCF approach remains predominant in practice, the data and analysis presented here indicate that the RE approach is often a better choice, particularly in the context of disputes and litigation. The RE approach is more anchored in observable data, is less sensitive to parameters that can be subject to discretionary adjustment, and is more economically transparent.
A inclusão de crianças com Transtornos do Espectro do Autismo nas escolas públicas dos Estados Unidos
Authors: Whalon Kelly , Hanline Mary Frances
Published: November 2013

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1984686X10070A legislação norteamericana determina que todas as crianças com deficiência, (incluindo aquelas com transtornos do espectro do autismo) tenham acesso ao currículo da escola comum em contextos menos restritivos possíveis. Embora a literatura documente os benefícios associados à inclusão de crianças com transtorno do espectro do autismo (TEA) em ambientes com os seus pares com desenvolvimento típico, persistem dúvidas sobre a capacidade dos professores da educação regular em atender os múltiplos desafios vivenciados por essas crianças nesses ambientes. Este artigo examina o estado atual da inclusão de educandos com autismo nas escolas públicas dos Estados Unidos, analisa os resultados de pesquisas que versam sobre essa temática e apresenta argumentos favoráveis e questionamentos sobre o papel da inclusão de crianças com TEA. Este trabalho também analisa os resultados de programas que enfatizam a educação inclusiva e os métodos de ensino empregados que favorecem a inclusão, com sucesso, de crianças com TEA na escola regular.
Utilizando o teste não verbal de inteligência SON-R 2 ½ - 7 [a] para avaliar crianças com Transtornos do Espectro do Autismo
Authors: Macedo Elizeu Coutinho de , Mecca Tatiana Pontrelli , Valentini Felipe , Laros Jacob Arie , Lima Renata Manuelly Feitosa de , Schwartzman José Salomão
Published: November 2013

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1984686X9779A importância da avaliação de inteligência nos Transtornos do Espectro do Autismo se deve ao fato de alterações cognitivas estarem relacionadas com a severidade dos sintomas, funcionamento adaptativo, prognóstico e com o planejamento de intervenções mais eficazes. Sendo assim, o objetivo do presente estudo foi verificar a adequação do teste não-verbal de inteligência SON-R2 ½ - 7 [a] para avaliação de um grupo de crianças com TEA. Participaram 18 meninos com idades entre 4 e 7 anos, diagnosticados com base nos critérios do DSM-IV-TR e que pontuaram em instrumentos de rastreamento. Foram utilizados o teste de inteligência SON-R2 ½ - 7 [a], o Inventário de Comportamentos Autísticos (ICA), o Questionário de Comportamento e Comunicação Social (SCQ) e a Escala de Comportamento Adaptativo de Vineland (VABS). Os resultados mostraram que 55,6% do grupo obteve QI inferior à média, e houve diferença significativa entre o desempenho do grupo TEA e da amostra normativa nos quatro subtestes que compõem o instrumento. Análises intra grupo indicaram diferenças estatisticamente significativas entre os subtestes, embora tenham sido obtidas correlações positivas e significativas entre si. Correlações negativas e significativas foram observadas entre QI Total no SON-R2 ½ - 7 [a] com o ICA e o QCS; assim como foram observadas correlações positivas, significativas do QI Total com os escores obtidos na VABS. Os resultados obtidos corroboram achados prévios que indicam relações moderadasentre inteligência, severidade dos sintomas e funcionalidade, bem como a presença de perfil específico de desempenho não-verbal de crianças com TEA.
Stem Cells in Plastic Surgery: A Review of Current Clinical and Translational Applications
Authors: Salibian Ara A , Widgerow Alan D , Abrouk Michael , Evans Gregory RD
Published: November 2013

Background Stem cells are a unique cell population characterized by self-renewal and cellular differentiation capabilities. These characteristics, among other traits, make them an attractive option for regenerative treatments of tissues defects and for aesthetic procedures in plastic surgery. As research regarding the isolation, culture and behavior of stem cells has progressed, stem cells, particularly adult stem cells, have shown promising results in both translational and clinical applications.

Methods The purpose of this review is to evaluate the applications of stem cells in the plastic surgery literature, with particular focus on the advances and limitations of current stem cell therapies. Different key areas amenable to stem cell therapy are addressed in the literature review; these include regeneration of soft tissue, bone, cartilage, and peripheral nerves, as well as wound healing and skin aging.

Results The reviewed studies demonstrate promising results, with favorable outcomes and minimal complications in the cited cases. In particular, adipose tissue derived stem cell (ADSC) transplants appear to provide effective treatment options for bony and soft tissue defects, and non-healing wounds. ADSCs have also been shown to be useful in aesthetic surgery.

Conclusions Further studies involving both the basic and clinical science aspects of stem cell therapies are warranted. In particular, the mechanism of action of stem cells, their interactions with the surrounding microenvironment and their long-term fate require further elucidation. Larger randomized trials are also necessary to demonstrate the continued safety of transplanted stem cells as well as the efficacy of cellular therapies in comparison to the current standards of care.
Latent Transforming Growth Factor-beta1 Functionalised Electrospun Scaffolds Promote Human Cartilage Differentiation: Towards an Engineered Cartilage Construct
Authors: Lim Erh-Hsuin , Sardinha Jose Paulo , Myers Simon , Stevens Molly
Published: November 2013

Background To overcome the potential drawbacks of a short half-life and dose-related adverse effects of using active transforming growth factor-beta 1 for cartilage engineering, a cell-mediated latent growth factor activation strategy was developed incorporating latent transforming growth factor-β1 (LTGF) into an electrospun poly(L-lactide) scaffold.

Methods The electrospun scaffold was surface modified with NH3 plasma and biofunctionalised with LTGF to produce both random and orientated biofunctionalised electrospun scaffolds. Scaffold surface chemical analysis and growth factor bioavailability assays were performed. In vitro biocompatibility and human nasal chondrocyte gene expression with these biofunctionalised electrospun scaffold templates were assessed. In vivo chondrogenic activity and chondrocyte gene expression were evaluated in athymic rats.

Results Chemical analysis demonstrated that LTGF anchored to the scaffolds was available for enzymatic, chemical and cell activation. The biofunctionalised scaffolds were non-toxic. Gene expression suggested chondrocyte re-differentiation after 14 days in culture. By 6 weeks, the implanted biofunctionalised scaffolds had induced highly passaged chondrocytes to re-express Col2A1 and produce type II collagen.

Conclusions We have demonstrated a proof of concept for cell-mediated activation of anchored growth factors using a novel biofunctionalised scaffold in cartilage engineering. This presents a platform for development of protein delivery systems and for tissue engineering.
An Analytical Study of Mammalian Bite Wounds Requiring Inpatient Management
Authors: Lee Young-Geun , Jeong Seong-Ho , Kim Woo-Kyung
Published: November 2013

Background Mammalian bite injuries create a public health problem because of their frequency, potential severity, and increasing number. Some researchers have performed fragmentary analyses of bite wounds caused by certain mammalian species. However, little practical information is available concerning serious mammalian bite wounds that require hospitalization and intensive wound management. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to perform a general review of serious mammalian bite wounds.

Methods We performed a retrospective review of the medical charts of 68 patients who were referred to our plastic surgery department for the treatment of bite wounds between January 2003 and October 2012. The cases were analyzed according to the species, patient demographics, environmental factors, injury characteristics, and clinical course.

Results Among the 68 cases of mammalian bite injury, 58 (85%) were caused by dogs, 8 by humans, and 2 by cats. Most of those bitten by a human and both of those bitten by cats were male. Only one-third of all the patients were children or adolescents. The most frequent site of injury was the face, with 40 cases, followed by the hand, with 16 cases. Of the 68 patients, 7 were treated with secondary intention healing. Sixty-one patients underwent delayed procedures, including delayed direct closure, skin graft, composite graft, and local flap.

Conclusions Based on overall findings from our review of the 68 cases of mammalian bites, we suggest practical guidelines for the management of mammalian bite injuries, which could be useful in the treatment of serious mammalian bite wounds.
Through-and-through Nasal Reconstruction with the Bi-Pedicled Forehead Flap
Authors: Agostini Tommaso , Perello Raffaella , Russo Giulia Lo , Spinelli Giuseppe
Published: November 2013

Background Nasal reconstruction is one of the most difficult challenges for the head and neck surgeon, especially in the case of complex full thickness defects following malignant skin tumor resection. Full-thickness defects require demanding multi-step reconstruction.

Methods Seven patients underwent surgical reconstruction of full-thickness nasal defects with a bi-pedicled forehead flap shaped appropriately to the defect. Patients were aged between 58 and 86 years, with a mean age of 63.4 years. All of the tumors were excised using traditional surgery, and in 4 of the patients, reconstruction was performed simultaneously following negativity of fresh frozen sections of the margins under general anesthesia.

Results Nasal reconstruction was well accepted by all of the patients suffering non-melanoma skin tumors with acceptable cosmetic outcomes. The heart-shaped forehead flap was harvested in cases of subtotal involvement of the nasal pyramid, while smaller defects were reconstructed with a wing-shaped flap. No cartilaginous or osseous support was necessary.

Conclusions This bi-pedicled forehead flap was a valid, versatile, and easy-to-implement alternative to microsurgery or multi-step reconstruction. The flap is the best indication for full-thickness nasal defects but can also be indicated for other complex facial defects in the orbital (exenteratio orbitae), zygomatic, and cheek area, for which the availability of a flap equipped with two thick and hairless lobes can be a valuable resource.
Total Maxillary Reconstruction Using a Double-Barreled and Double Skin Paddle Fibular Flap after Total Maxillectomy
Authors: de la Parra Miguel , Sanchez Gerardo , Lopez Jaime , Perez Adrian , Naal Norberto
Published: November 2013

Chondroblastomas are rare entities accounting for approximately 1% of all primary bone tumors. We describe a case of a 7-year-old girl with a giant chondroblastoma of the maxilla, treated with bilateral class III maxillectomy and reconstruction with a double-barreled and double skin paddle fibular free flap. We show evidence of an excellent aesthetic outcome at 6 months' follow up with no evidence of tumor recurrence.
NiOX/MoO3 Bi‐Layers as Efficient Hole Extraction Contacts in Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Schulz Philip , Cowan Sarah R. , Guan Ze‐Lei , Garcia Andres , Olson Dana C. , Kahn Antoine
Published: November 2013

The electronic structure of a bi‐layer hole extraction contact consisting of nickel oxide (NiOx) and molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) is determined via ultraviolet and X‐ray photoemission spectroscopy. The bi‐layer presents ideal energetics for the extraction of holes and suppression of carrier recombination at the interface. The application of the NiOx/MoO3 bi‐layer as the anode of organic bulk heterojunction solar cells based on PCDTBT/PC71BM leads to improved device performance, which is explained by an intricate charge transfer process across the interface.
Impact of gravity on the bubble‐to‐pulse transition in packed beds
Authors: Salgi Paul , Balakotaiah Vemuri
Published: November 2013

A model based on two‐phase volume‐averaged equations of motion is proposed to examine the gravity dependence of the bubble‐to‐pulse transition in gas‐liquid cocurrent down‐flow through packed beds. As input, the model uses experimental correlations for the frictional pressure drop under both normal gravity conditions and in the limit of vanishing gravity, as well as correlations for the liquid‐gas interfacial area per unit volume of bed in normal gravity. In accordance with experimental observations, the model shows that, for a given liquid flow, the transition to the pulse regime occurs at lower gas‐flow rates as the gravity level or the Bond number is decreased. Predicted transition boundaries agree reasonably well with observations under both reduced and normal gravity. The model also predicts a decrease in frictional pressure drop and an increase in total liquid holdup with decreasing gravity levels. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J 60: 778–793, 2014
Novel Arylazoarylmethane as Potential Inhibitor of Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor
Authors: He Mingzhu , Metz Christine , Cheng Kai Fan , Ling Jie , Coleman Thomas , VanPatten Sonya , Al‐Abed Yousef
Published: November 2013

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), a cytokine involved in the pathogenesis of sepsis, diabetes, asthma, arthritis, and cancer, has an enzymatic active site that has proven to be an effective target for small molecule‐based inhibitors. Herein, we describe the synthesis of a novel arylazoarylmethane compound (3) from a known arylhydrazone MIF inhibitor (2). This new compound has improved stability and in vivo biological activity.
Re‐centered kurtosis as a projection pursuit index for multivariate data analysis
Authors: Hou Siyuan , Wentzell Peter D.
Published: November 2013

High‐dimensional data, which have become common in analytical chemistry, are often rich in information, but useful information may not be discovered without applying advanced data analysis methods. As a powerful tool for exploratory data analysis, projection pursuit (PP) is less widely used in chemistry compared with other methods such as principal component analysis (PCA), although PP often gives better results than PCA. PP does not have a uniquely defined objective function (projection index), and different statistics have been proposed as projection indices. Kurtosis has been widely employed as a projection index, and minimization of kurtosis is helpful in revealing clusters. However, this method often fails when the clusters in a data set are not balanced (i.e., present in unequal proportions). In this work, a newly defined kurtosis, referred to as “re‐centered kurtosis,” is proposed as a projection index. The theory and the optimization algorithms for the re‐centered kurtosis are developed. The utility of the PP method using the proposed re‐centered kurtosis as a projection index to reveal unbalanced clusters is demonstrated by simulated and real experimental data. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An improved anonymous multi‐receiver identity‐based encryption scheme
Authors: Zhang Jianhong , Mao Jian
Published: November 2013

Anonymous receiver encryption is an important cryptographic primitive. It allows a sender to use the public identities of multiple receivers to encrypt messages so that only the authorized receivers or a privileged set of users can decrypt the messages, and the identities of the receivers are not revealed. Recently, Zhang et al. proposed a novel anonymous multi‐receiver encryption scheme and claimed that their scheme could realize the receiver's identity privacy. Unfortunately, in this paper, we pointed out that the scheme by Zhang et al. did not achieve the anonymity of the receiver identity after analyzing the security of the scheme. At the same time, we give the corresponding attack. After analyzing the reason to produce such attacks, a novel anonymous multi‐receiver encryption scheme is given to achieve the anonymity of the receiver's identities. And we formally prove that the proposed scheme is semantically secure for confidentiality and receiver identities’ anonymity. The security of the scheme is based on decisional bilinear Diffie‐Hellman problem. Compared with the scheme by Zhang et al., Fan et al., Wang et al., and Chien et al., our scheme is shown to be better performance and robust security. To the best of our knowledge, our scheme is most efficient in terms of computational cost and communication overhead. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SIP1 expression patterns in brain investigated by generating a SIP1‐EGFP reporter knock‐in mouse
Authors: Nishizaki Yuriko , Takagi Tsuyoshi , Matsui Fumiko , Higashi Yujiro
Published: November 2013

A loss of function of SIP1 (Smad interacting protein 1) in the mouse as well as in human of Mowat–Wilson syndrome results in severe and multiple defects in neural tissue development, especially in the brain. However, no detailed expression analysis of SIP1 during brain development has been previously reported. In this study, we describe the generation of an EGFP knock‐in reporter mouse for the Sip1 locus and our subsequent analysis of SIP1‐EGFP fusion protein expression during brain development. SIP1‐EGFP expression was observed in the pyramidal neurons of the hippocampus, the dentate gyrus, and the postmitotic neurons in the cerebral cortex. In layer 5 of the cerebral cortex, SIP1‐EGFP expression was complementary to the Ctip2‐expressing neurons, most of which are thought to be the cortico‐spinal neurons. This suggested that SIP1‐EGFP expressing cells might have the specific trajectory targets other than the spinal region. We further observed SIP1‐EGFP expression in oligodendrocytes of the corpus callosum and fimbria, Bergmann glial cells of the cerebellum, the olfactory bulb, and in the serotonergic and dopaminergic neurons of the raphe nuclei in the brainstem. These findings may help to clarify the unknown roles of SIP1 in these cells and the pathoetiology of Mowat‐Wilson syndrome. genesis 52:56–67, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Incest versus abstinence: reproductive trade‐offs between mate limitation and progeny fitness in a self‐incompatible invasive plant
Authors: Pierson Jennifer C. , Swain Stephen M. , Young Andrew G.
Published: November 2013

Plant mating systems represent an evolutionary and ecological trade‐off between reproductive assurance through selfing and maximizing progeny fitness through outbreeding. However, many plants with sporophytic self‐incompatibility systems exhibit dominance interactions at the S‐locus that allow biparental inbreeding, thereby facilitating mating between individuals that share alleles at the S‐locus. We investigated this trade‐off by estimating mate availability and biparental inbreeding depression in wild radish from five different populations across Australia. We found dominance interactions among S‐alleles increased mate availability relative to estimates based on individuals that did not share S‐alleles. Twelve of the sixteen fitness variables were significantly reduced by inbreeding. For all the three life‐history phases evaluated, self‐fertilized offspring suffered a greater than 50% reduction in fitness, while full‐sib and half‐sib offspring suffered a less than 50% reduction in fitness. Theory indicates that fitness costs greater than 50% can result in an evolutionary trajectory toward a stable state of self‐incompatibility (SI). This study suggests that dominance interactions at the S‐locus provide a possible third stable state between SI and SC where biparental inbreeding increases mate availability with relatively minor fitness costs. This strategy allows weeds to establish in new environments while maintaining a functional SI system.
NF‐κB2/p100 deficiency impairs immune responses to T‐cell‐independent type 2 antigens
Authors: Krljanac Branislav , Weih Debra , Jacobsen Ilse D. , Hu Desheng , Koliesnik Ievgen , Reppe Katrin , Witzenrath Martin , Weih Falk
Published: November 2013

Formation of the splenic marginal zone (MZ) depends on the alternative NF‐κB signaling pathway. Recently, we reported that unrestricted activation of this pathway in NF‐κB2/p100‐deficient (p100−/−) knock‐in mice alters the phenotype of MZ stroma and B cells. Here, we show that lack of the p100 inhibitor resulted in an expansion of both MZ B and peritoneal B‐1 cells. However, these cells failed to generate proliferating blasts in response to T‐cell‐independent type 2 (TI‐2) Ags, correlating with dampened IgM and absent IgG3 responses. This phenotype was in part due to increased activity of the NF‐κB subunit RelB. Moreover, p100−/−→B6 BM chimeras were more susceptible to infection by encapsulated Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria, pathogens that induce TI‐2 responses. In contrast to the TI‐2 defect, p100 deficiency did not impair immune responses to the TI‐1 Ag LPS and p100−/− MZ B cells showed normal Ag transportation into B‐cell follicles. Furthermore, p100−/− MZ B and B‐1 cells failed to respond to TI‐2 Ags in the presence of WT accessory cells. Thus, NF‐κB2/p100 deficiency caused a predominant B‐cell‐intrinsic TI‐2 defect that could largely be attributed to impaired proliferation of plasmablasts. Importantly, p100 was also necessary for efficient defense against clinically relevant TI‐2 pathogens.
Overexpression of Bcl‐3 inhibits the development of marginal zone B cells
Authors: Hövelmeyer Nadine , Wörns Marcus A. , Reissig Sonja , Adams‐Quack Petra , Leclaire Jennifer , Hahn Matthias , Wörtge Simone , Nikolaev Alexei , Galle Peter R. , Waisman Ari
Published: November 2013

The transcription factor Bcl‐3 functions as a proto‐oncogene via regulation of cell proliferation and apoptosis. Bcl‐3 is an atypical member of the IκB family and plays a central role in the immune response through interactions with the NF‐κB subunits p50 and p52. To investigate the impact of Bcl‐3 on B‐cell maturation and regulation, we generated mice that overexpress Bcl‐3 specifically in B cells. Interestingly, these mice lack marginal zone B cells and exhibit a significant reduction in the number of B‐1 B cells. Further, B cells from these mice are impaired in their proliferative capacity. Our data demonstrate that the overexpression of the transcription factor Bcl‐3 inhibits germinal center formation, marginal zone B‐cell development, and affects the B‐1 B‐cell compartment.
A novel method for the analysis of 20 multi‐Indel polymorphisms and its forensic application
Authors: Huang Jian , Luo Haibo , Wei Wei , Hou Yiping
Published: November 2013

Insertion/deletion polymorphisms (Indels) have been considered as potential markers for forensic DNA analysis. However, the discrimination power of Indels is relatively lower due to the poor polymorphisms of diallelic markers. Here, two to three Indel loci that were very tightly linked in physical position were combined into a specific multi‐Indel marker to improve the discrimination, as well as a multiplex that consisted of a set of multi‐Indel markers was developed for forensic purpose. Finally, a multiplex system with 20 multi‐Indel markers including 43 Indel loci from dbSNP database was constructed and DNA sample can be analyzed by this multiplex in one PCR reaction and one CE run. A total of 150 unrelated individuals from Hunan province in South‐central China were genotyped by the multiplex system. The result showed that a total of 63 specific amplicons were detected, three alleles were observed in multi‐Indel markers including two Indel loci and four alleles were observed in the markers including three Indel loci. The cumulative probability of exclusion and the accumulated discrimination power were 0.9989 and 0.9999999999994, respectively. Our result demonstrated that the strategy could be efficient to develop higher polymorphic multi‐Indel markers, and the new multiplex could provide Supporting Information for forensic application.
Phenylalanine functionalized zwitterionic monolith for hydrophobic interaction electrochromatography
Authors: Wang Jiabin , Jia Wenchao , Lin Xucong , Wu Xiaoping , Xie Zenghong
Published: November 2013

A novel phenylalanine (Phe) functionalized zwitterionic monolith for hydrophobic electrochromatography was prepared by a two‐step procedure involving the synthesis of glycidyl methacrylate based polymer monolith and subsequent on‐column chemical modification with Phe via ring‐opening reaction of epoxides. Benefitting from the hydrophobicity of both methacrylate‐based matrix and aromatic group of Phe, this monolith could exhibit good hydrophobic interaction for the separation. Typical RP chromatographic behavior was observed toward various solutes. The well‐controlled cathodic or anodic EOF of the prepared column could be facilely switched by altering the pH values of running buffers. The separation mechanism of this Phe functionalized zwitterionic monolith is discussed in detail. Two mixed‐mode mechanisms of RP/cation exchange and RP/anion exchange could be further realized on the same monolith in different pH condition of the mobile phase. Versatile separation capabilities of neutral, basic, and acidic analytes have been successfully achieved in this zwitterionic monolith by CEC method.
First successful use of leukocyte apheresis as maintenance therapy for Crohn's disease in the United Kingdom
Authors: Tate David , Cairnes Vida , Valori Roland , Makins Richard
Published: November 2013

We describe the case of a 24 year old male with severe fistulating Crohn's disease who failed mutliple modalities of medical and surgical therapy. We present objective and subjective evidence of disease remission after induction and maintenance treatment with leukocyte apheresis. This is the first described case of successful maintenance treatment of severe Crohn's disease with leukocyte apheresis in the United Kingdom. J. Clin. Apheresis 29:181–182, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Complex Spherical Designs and Codes
Authors: Roy Aidan , Suda Sho
Published: November 2013

Real spherical designs and real and complex projective designs have been shown by Delsarte, Goethals, and Seidel to give rise to association schemes when the strength of the design is high compared to its degree as a code. In contrast, designs on the complex unit sphere remain relatively uninvestigated, despite their importance in numerous applications. In this paper, we develop the notion of a complex spherical design and show how many such designs carry the structure of an association scheme. In contrast with the real spherical designs and the real and complex projective designs, these association schemes are nonsymmetric.
The Impact of Type of Examples on Originality: Explaining Fixation and Stimulation Effects
Authors: Agogué Marine , Kazakçi Akin , Hatchuel Armand , Le Masson Pascal , Weil Benoit , Poirel Nicolas , Cassotti Mathieu
Published: November 2013

There are obstacles to creativity: one of them is called fixation effect, the fact that some knowledge about existing or obvious solutions is spontaneously activated and constrains the generation of new solutions. Converging evidence in cognitive psychology has indicated that the ability to generate original ideas can be limited by recently activated knowledge, such as examples of solutions. On the other hand, neuroimaging studies have recently demonstrated that exposure to examples could, on the contrary, have a stimulating effect on originality. To make sense of what seems to be contradictory studies, we hypothesized that two types of examples could have opposite effects on originality: (1) restrictive examples—within the fixation effect—could lead to a reduction in the originality of the solutions, whereas (2) expansive examples—outside the fixation effect—could provoke solutions of higher originality. Results from a total of 160 participants confirmed that the solutions proposed by the group exposed to restrictive examples were less original than those given by the group exposed to expansive examples.
Exome sequencing identifies NFS1 deficiency in a novel Fe‐S cluster disease, infantile mitochondrial complex II/III deficiency
Authors: Farhan Sali M. K. , Wang Jian , Robinson John F. , Lahiry Piya , Siu Victoria M. , Prasad Chitra , Kronick Jonathan B. , Ramsay David A. , Rupar C. Anthony , Hegele Robert A.
Published: November 2013

Iron‐sulfur (Fe‐S) clusters are a class of highly conserved and ubiquitous prosthetic groups with unique chemical properties that allow the proteins that contain them, Fe‐S proteins, to assist in various key biochemical pathways. Mutations in Fe‐S proteins often disrupt Fe‐S cluster assembly leading to a spectrum of severe disorders such as Friedreich's ataxia or iron‐sulfur cluster assembly enzyme (ISCU) myopathy. Herein, we describe infantile mitochondrial complex II/III deficiency, a novel autosomal recessive mitochondrial disease characterized by lactic acidemia, hypotonia, respiratory chain complex II and III deficiency, multisystem organ failure and abnormal mitochondria. Through autozygosity mapping, exome sequencing, in silico analyses, population studies and functional tests, we identified c.215G>A, p.Arg72Gln in NFS1 as the likely causative mutation. We describe the first disease in man likely caused by deficiency in NFS1, a cysteine desulfurase that is implicated in respiratory chain function and iron maintenance by initiating Fe‐S cluster biosynthesis. Our results further demonstrate the importance of sufficient NFS1 expression in human physiology.