bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diets high in resistant starch and arabinoxylan modulate digestion processes and SCFA pool size in the large intestine and faecal microbial composition in pigs
Authors: Nielsen Tina S. , Lærke Helle N. , Theil Peter K. , Sørensen Jens F. , Saarinen Markku , Forssten Sofia , Bach Knudsen Knud E.
Published: October 2014

The effects of a high level of dietary fibre (DF) either as arabinoxylan (AX) or resistant starch (RS) on digestion processes, SCFA concentration and pool size in various intestinal segments and on the microbial composition in the faeces were studied in a model experiment with pigs. A total of thirty female pigs (body weight 63·1 (sem4·4) kg) were fed a low-DF, high-fat Western-style control diet (WSD), an AX-rich diet (AXD) or a RS-rich diet (RSD) for 3 weeks. Diet significantly affected the digestibility of DM, protein, fat, NSP and NSP components, and the arabinose:xylose ratio, as well as the disappearance of NSP and AX in the large intestine. RS was mainly digested in the caecum. AX was digested at a slower rate than RS. The digesta from AXD-fed pigs passed from the ileum to the distal colon more than twice as fast as those from WSD-fed pigs, with those from RSD-fed pigs being intermediate (P< 0·001). AXD feeding resulted in a higher number ofFaecalibacterium prausnitzii,Roseburia intestinalis,Blautia coccoides–Eubacterium rectale,Bifidobacteriumspp. andLactobacillusspp. in the faeces sampled at week 3 of the experimental period (P< 0·05). In the caecum, proximal and mid colon, AXD feeding resulted in a 3- to 5-fold higher pool size of butyrate compared with WSD feeding, with the RSD being intermediate (P <0·001). In conclusion, the RSD and AXD differently affected digestion processes compared with the WSD, and the AXD most efficiently shifted the microbial composition towards butyrogenic species in the faeces and increased the large-intestinal butyrate pool size.
The acute effect of commercially available pulse powders on postprandial glycaemic response in healthy young men
Authors: Anderson G. Harvey , Liu Yudan , Smith Christopher E. , Liu Ting Ting , Nunez Maria Fernanda , Mollard Rebecca C. , Luhovyy Bohdan L.
Published: October 2014

Whole pulses (beans, peas, chickpeas and lentils) elicit low postprandial blood glucose (BG) responses in adults; however, their consumption in North America is low. One potential strategy to increase the dietary intake of pulses is the utilisation of commercial pulse powders in food products; however, it is unclear whether they retain the biological benefits observed with whole pulses. Therefore, the present study examined the effects of commercially prepared pulse powders on BG response before and after a subsequent meal in healthy young men. Overall, three randomised, within-subject experiments were conducted. In each experiment, participants received whole, puréed and powdered pulses (navy beans in Expt 1; lentils in Expt 2; chickpeas in Expt 3) and whole-wheat flour as the control. All treatments were controlled for available carbohydrate content. A fixed-energy pizza meal (50·2 kJ/kg body weight) was provided at 120 min. BG concentration was measured before (0–120 min) and after (140–200 min) the pizza meal. BG concentration peaked at 30 min in all experiments, and pulse forms did not predict their effect on BG response. Compared with the whole-wheat flour control, navy bean treatments lowered peak BG concentrations (Expt 1, P< 0·05), but not the mean BG concentration over 120 min. The mean BG concentration was lower for all lentil (Expt 2, P= 0·008) and chickpea (Expt 3, P= 0·002) treatments over 120 min. Processing pulses to powdered form does not eliminate the benefits of whole pulses on BG response, lending support to the use of pulse powders as value-added food ingredients to moderate postprandial glycaemic response.
Higher breakfast glycaemic load is associated with increased metabolic syndrome risk, including lower HDL-cholesterol concentrations and increased TAG concentrations, in adolescent girls
Authors: Nicholl Analise , du Heaume Mary , Mori Trevor A. , Beilin Lawrence J. , Oddy Wendy H. , Bremner Alexandra P. , O'Sullivan Therese A.
Published: October 2014

Almost all previous studies examining the associations between glycaemic load (GL) and metabolic syndrome risk have used a daily GL value. The daily value does not distinguish between peaks of GL intake over the day, which may be more closely associated with the risk of the metabolic syndrome. The aim of the present study was to investigate the cross-sectional associations between daily and mealtime measures of GL and metabolic syndrome risk, including metabolic syndrome components, in adolescents. Adolescents participating in the 14-year follow-up of the Western Australian Pregnancy Cohort (Raine) Study completed 3 d food records and metabolic assessments. Breakfast GL, lunch GL, dinner GL and a score representing meal GL peaks over the day were determined in 516 adolescents. Logistic regression models were used to investigate whether GL variables were independent predictors of the metabolic syndrome in this population-based cohort (3·5 % prevalence of the metabolic syndrome). Breakfast GL was found to be predictive of the metabolic syndrome in girls (OR 1·15, 95 % CI 1·04, 1·27;P <0·01), but not in boys. Other meal GL values and daily GL were found to be not significant predictors of the metabolic syndrome. When breakfast GL was examined in relation to each of the components of the metabolic syndrome in girls, it was found to be negatively associated with fasting HDL-cholesterol concentrations (P= 0·037; β = − 0·004; 95 % CI − 0·008, − 0·002) and positively associated with fasting TAG concentrations (P= 0·008; exp(β) = 1·002; 95 % CI 1·001, 1·004). The results of the present study suggest that there may be an association between breakfast composition and metabolic syndrome components in adolescent girls. These findings support further investigation into including lower-GL foods as part of a healthy breakfast in adolescence, particularly for girls.
Effect of oligofructose supplementation on body weight in overweight and obese children: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Liber Anna , Szajewska Hania
Published: October 2014

Limited evidence suggests that the dietary inclusion of oligofructose, an inulin-type fructan with prebiotic properties, may increase satiety and, thus, reduce energy intake and body weight in overweight and obese adults. The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of oligofructose supplementation for 12 weeks on the BMI of overweight and obese children. A total of ninety-seven children aged 7–18 years who were overweight and obese (BMI >85th percentile) were randomly assigned to receive placebo (maltodextrin) or oligofructose (both at an age-dependent dose: 8 g/d for children aged 7–11 years and 15 g/d for children aged 12–18 years) for 12 weeks. Before the intervention, all children received dietetic advice and they were encouraged to engage in physical activity. The primary outcome measure was the BMI-for-age z-score difference between the groups at the end of the intervention. Data from seventy-nine (81 %) children were available for analysis. At 12 weeks, the BMI-for-age z-score difference did not differ between the experimental (n 40) and control (n 39) groups (mean difference 0·002, 95 % CI − 0·11, 0·1). There were also no significant differences between the groups with regard to any of the secondary outcomes, such as the mean BMI-for-age z-score, percentage of body weight reduction and the difference in total body fat. Adverse effects were similar in both groups. In conclusion, oligofructose supplementation for 12 weeks has no effect on body weight in overweight and obese children.
The Early Iron Age Treasure from Snettisham Norfolk
Authors: Clarke R. Rainbird , Dolley R. H. M.
Published: October 2014

This paper describes and discusses a group of five hoards of metal-work and coins found in 1948–50 by ploughing supplemented by excavation at Ken Hill, Snettisham, in north-west Norfolk. On account of the large quantity of precious metals included the find has been termed collectively ‘The Snettisham Treasure.’ Its principal contents are as follows:—Hoard A (p. 36) contained the remains of four gold tubular torcs. Hoard B contained three staters, four quarter-staters of the Bellovaci; four staters and one quarter-stater of the Gaulish Atrebates, all of gold (p. 59): Hoard C contained at least 145 speculum (tin) coins of Allen's Class I (p. 72) and three buffer terminal bronze torcs (p. 52). From Hoards B and C came at least 48 loop terminal torcs of gold alloy, bronze and tin (p. 46); 17 ‘ingot-bracelets’ of bronze and tin (p. 52) 14 rings of gold alloy, bronze and tin (p. 54); U-shaped bronze binding (p. 56); fragment of a bronze bridle bit (p. 57); two dome-shaped bronze rivets (p. 57); 10 iron nails (p. 58) and miscellaneous fragments of sheet-bronze and ‘cake’ of gold alloy and tin (pp. 57–58). Hoard D consisted of a gold loop terminal torc (p. 46) with securing ring of gold (p. 54). Hoard E contained the following gold objects: ring terminal torc (p. 63) with quarter-stater of Gaulish Atrebates (p. 59); bracelet (p. 66) and large buffer terminal torc (p. 67).
Crystal structure of folic acid dihydrate, C29H29N2O6(H2O)2
Authors: Kaduk James A. , Crowder Cyrus E. , Zhong Kai
Published: October 2014

The crystal structure of folic acid dihydrate has been solved and refined using synchrotron X-ray powder diffraction data, and optimized using density functional techniques. Folic acid dihydrate crystallizes in space groupP212121(#19) witha= 7.275 78(3),b= 8.632 17(4),c= 32.417 19(22) Å,V= 2035.985(18) Å3, andZ= 4. The structure is dominated by a three-dimensional network of hydrogen bonds. The dicarboxylic acid side chain occurs in a bent conformation, helping explain the ability of folate derivatives to coordinate metal cations. The powder pattern has been submitted to ICDD for inclusion in future releases of the Powder Diffraction File™.
Graphene-based carbon-layered electrode array technology for neural imaging and optogenetic applications
Authors: Park Dong-Wook , Schendel Amelia A. , Mikael Solomon , Brodnick Sarah K. , Richner Thomas J. , Ness Jared P. , Hayat Mohammed R. , Atry Farid , Frye Seth T. , Pashaie Ramin , Thongpang Sanitta , Ma Zhenqiang , Williams Justin C.
Published: October 2014

Neural micro-electrode arrays that are transparent over a broad wavelength spectrum from ultraviolet to infrared could allow for simultaneous electrophysiology and optical imaging, as well as optogenetic modulation of the underlying brain tissue. The long-term biocompatibility and reliability of neural micro-electrodes also require their mechanical flexibility and compliance with soft tissues. Here we present a graphene-based, carbon-layered electrode array (CLEAR) device, which can be implanted on the brain surface in rodents for high-resolution neurophysiological recording. We characterize optical transparency of the device at >90% transmission over the ultraviolet to infrared spectrum and demonstrate its utility through optical interface experiments that use this broad spectrum transparency. These include optogenetic activation of focal cortical areas directly beneath electrodes, in vivo imaging of the cortical vasculature via fluorescence microscopy and 3D optical coherence tomography. This study demonstrates an array of interfacing abilities of the CLEAR device and its utility for neural applications.
Altered levels of serum sphingomyelin and ceramide containing distinct acyl chains in young obese adults
Authors: Hanamatsu H , Ohnishi S , Sakai S , Yuyama K , Mitsutake S , Takeda H , Hashino S , Igarashi Y
Published: October 2014

Objective:

Recent studies indicate that sphingolipids, sphingomyelin (SM) and ceramide (Cer) are associated with the development of metabolic syndrome. However, detailed profiles of serum sphingolipids in the pathogenesis of this syndrome are lacking. Here we have investigated the relationship between the molecular species of sphingolipids in serum and the clinical features of metabolic syndrome, such as obesity, insulin resistance, fatty liver disease and atherogenic dyslipidemia.

Subjects:

We collected serum from obese (body mass index, BMI⩾35, n=12) and control (BMI=20−22, n=11) volunteers (18−27 years old), measured the levels of molecular species of SM and Cer in the serum by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and analyzed the parameters for insulin resistance, liver function and lipid metabolism by biochemical blood test.

Results:

The SM C18:0 and C24:0 levels were higher, and the C20:0 and C22:0 levels tended to be higher in the obese group than in the control group. SM C18:0, C20:0, C22:0 and C24:0 significantly correlated with the parameters for obesity, insulin resistance, liver function and lipid metabolism, respectively. In addition, some Cer species tended to correlate with these parameters. However, SM species containing unsaturated acyl chains and most of the Cer species were not associated with these parameters.

Conclusions:

The present results demonstrate that the high levels of serum SM species with distinct saturated acyl chains (C18:0, C20:0, C22:0 and C24:0) closely correlate with the parameters of obesity, insulin resistance, liver function and lipid metabolism, suggesting that these SM species are associated with the development of metabolic syndrome and serve as novel biomarkers of metabolic syndrome and its associated diseases.
Autophagy inhibition sensitizes hepatocellular carcinoma to the multikinase inhibitor linifanib
Authors: Pan Hongming , Wang Zhanggui , Jiang Liming , Sui Xinbing , You Liangkun , Shou Jiawei , Jing Zhao , Xie Jiansheng , Ge Weiting , Cai Xiujun , Huang Wendong , Han Weidong
Published: October 2014

Autophagy is a critical survival pathway for cancer cells under conditions of stress. Thus, induction of autophagy has emerged as a drug resistance mechanism. This study is to determine whether autophagy is activated by a novel multikinase inhibitor linifanib, thereby impairing the sensitivity of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells to this targeted therapy. Here, we found that linifanib induced a high level of autophagy in HCC cells, which was accompanied by suppression of phosphorylation of PDGFR-β and its downstream Akt/mTOR and Mek/Erk signaling pathways. Cell death induced by linifanib was greatly enhanced after autophagy inhibition by the pharmacological inhibitors or siRNAs against autophagy related genes, ATG5 and ATG7, in vitro. Moreover, HCQ, an FDA-approved drug used to inhibit autophagy, could significantly augment the anti-HCC effect of linifanib in a mouse xenograft model. In conclusion, linifanib can induce cytoprotective autophagy by suppression of PDGFR-β activities in HCC cells. Thus, autophagy inhibition represents a promising approach to improve the efficacy of linifanib in the treatment of HCC patients.
Quantitative analysis of sitagliptin using the19F-NMR method: a universal technique for fluorinated compound detection
Authors: Zhang Fen-Fen , Jiang Meng-Hong , Sun Lin-Lin , Zheng Feng , Dong Lei , Shah Vishva , Shen Wen-Bin , Ding Ya
Published: October 2014

19F-NMR spectroscopy is employed to expand the application scope of NMR technology in quantitative analysis of pharmaceutical ingredients.
NaV2O5 crystals of a right-angle-shaped nanostructure assembly
Authors: Ren Tie-Zhen , He Zhanbing , Fan Hongjie , Li Huanrong , Yuan Zhong-Yong
Published: October 2014

L-shaped NaV2O5 crystals with two straight arms of a nanowire assembly were controllably synthesized, and the (310) twin boundary was found to connect the nearly perpendicular arms to form an L-shaped structure.
Yolk–shell ZnWO4 microspheres: one-pot synthesis, characterization and photocatalytic properties
Authors: Wang Miao , Tang Yanfeng , Sun Tongming , Jiang Guoqing , Shi Yujun
Published: October 2014

Novel yolk–shell ZnWO4 microspheres have been synthesized via a mild and one-pot hydrothermal route by using l-aspartic acid as the chelating agent and shape modifier.
A new magnetic superatom: Cr@Zn17
Authors: Lebon Alexandre , Aguado Andrés , Vega Andrés
Published: October 2014

We report on the theoretical discovery of a novel magnetic alkali-like superatom, and discuss its possible spintronics or biomedical applications.
Arene C–H activation using Rh(i) catalysts supported by bidentate nitrogen chelates
Authors: Webster-Gardiner Michael S. , Fu Ross , Fortman George C. , Nielsen Robert J. , Gunnoe T. Brent , Goddard III William A.
Published: October 2014

New Rh(i) complexes as precursors to efficient catalytic arene C–H activation in trifluoroacetic acid.
Synthesis of glycerol carbonate by direct carbonylation of glycerol with CO2 over solid catalysts derived from Zn/Al/La and Zn/Al/La/M (M = Li, Mg and Zr) hydrotalcites
Authors: Li Hongguang , Jiao Xi , Li Lei , Zhao Ning , Xiao Fukui , Wei Wei , Sun Yuhan , Zhang Bingsheng
Published: October 2014

Zn/Al/La and Zn/Al/La/M (M = Li, Mg, Zr) mixed oxides were obtained by calcination of hydrotalcites and tested for glycerol carbonate synthesis from CO2 carbonylation.
Enhanced visible light photocatalytic activity of ZnO doped with down-conversion NaSrBO3:Tb3+ phosphors
Authors: Liu Xinjuan , Wang Xiaojun , Li Huili , Li Jinliang , Pan Likun , Zhang Jing , Min Guoquan , Sun Zhuo , Sun Changqing
Published: October 2014

ZnO–NaSrBO3:Tb3+ composites were synthesized using microwave-assisted reaction for visible light photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue with a high degradation rate.
White up-conversion luminescence power and efficiency in Yb3+-, Er3+- and Tm3+-doped BaIn6Y2O13
Authors: Zhang Jiao , Yang Yanmin , Mi Chao , Liu Yanzhou , Yu Fang , Li Xiaohong , Mai Yaohua
Published: October 2014

A series of BaIn6Y2O13:Yb3+, Er3+, Tm3+ phosphors with different dopant concentrations have been successfully synthesized by a sol–gel method.
Synthesis, structure and catalytic application of lead(ii) complexes in cyanosilylation reactions
Authors: Karmakar Anirban , Hazra Susanta , Guedes da Silva M. Fátima C. , Pombeiro Armando J. L.
Published: October 2014

3-Aminopyrazine-2-carboxylic acid is utilized to synthesize six new Pb(ii) complexes with various dimensionalities, which act as heterogeneous catalysts for cyanosilylation of aldehydes with trimethylsilyl cyanide.
Exceptionally efficient catalytic hydrodechlorination of persistent organic pollutants: application of new sterically shielded palladium carbene complexes
Authors: Saberov Vagiz Sh. , Evans Daniel A. , Korotkikh Nikolai I. , Cowley Alan H. , Pekhtereva Tatyana M. , Popov Anatolii F. , Shvaika Oles P.
Published: October 2014

Exceptionally efficient catalysis of haloarene hydrodehalogenation by palladium carbene complexes.
Involvement of superoxide and nitric oxide in BRAFV600E inhibitor PLX4032-induced growth inhibition of melanoma cells
Authors: Yu Ling , Gao Li Xia , Ma Xiao Qing , Hu Fang Xin , Li Chang Ming , Lu Zhisong
Published: October 2014

Electrochemical biosensors together with fluorescein staining were employed to monitor generation of superoxide and nitric oxide from PLX4032-treated cells.
Systems analysis reveals down-regulation of a network of pro-survival miRNAs drives the apoptotic response in dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Isserlin Ruth , Merico Daniele , Wang Dingyan , Vuckovic Dajana , Bousette Nicolas , Gramolini Anthony O. , Bader Gary D. , Emili Andrew
Published: October 2014

An integrative bioinformatic and experimental approach to elucidate potential miRNA targets for further study and validation. The incorporation of multiple data sources can help address the high false positive rate of miRNA target predictions.
Bioinformatics survey of the metal usage by psychrophilic yeast Glaciozyma antarctica PI12
Authors: Foong Pik Mun , Abedi Karjiban Roghayeh , Normi Yahaya M. , Salleh Abu Bakar , Abdul Rahman Mohd Basyaruddin
Published: October 2014

The psychrophilic metallome of Glaciozyma antarctica PI12 predicted by bioinformatic approaches.
A bifunctional non-natural tetrapeptide modulates amyloid-beta peptide aggregation in the presence of Cu(ii)
Authors: Márquez Maripaz , Blancas-Mejía Luis M. , Campos Adriana , Rojas Luis , Castañeda-Hernández Gilberto , Quintanar Liliana
Published: October 2014

A novel bifunctional non-natural tetrapeptide, Met-Asp-d-Trp-Aib, is capable of binding copper, competing with amyloid-beta peptide (Aβ) for Cu(ii), and modulating Aβ aggregation. The study of this tetrapeptide provides further insights into the role of Cu(ii) in the Aβ aggregation pathway, and into the design of compounds with therapeutic potential for Alzheimer's disease.
Synthesis of nano-TiO2-decorated MoS2 nanosheets for lithium ion batteries
Authors: Zhu Xiaoquan , Yang Chao , Xiao Feng , Wang Jide , Su Xintai
Published: October 2014

The TiO2-decorated MoS2 nanosheets were prepared by a hydrothermal-annealing method and retained a capacity of 604 mA h g−1 after 100 cycles.
Irreversible covalent modification of type I dehydroquinase with a stable Schiff base
Authors: Tizón Lorena , Maneiro María , Peón Antonio , Otero José M. , Lence Emilio , Poza Sergio , van Raaij Mark J. , Thompson Paul , Hawkins Alastair R. , González-Bello Concepción
Published: October 2014

Structural and computational studies carried out with two epoxides provide insight into the irreversible inhibition of type I dehydroquinase.
Application of optical imaging technology on the in vitro assessment of mast cell degranulation
Authors: Ma Shu-hua , Sun Ya-nan , Ren Chuan-yun , Ouyang Jing-feng , Hou Yan-ming , Wang Yi
Published: October 2014

A new approach for anaphylactoid reaction assessment is proposed and it could be applied in allergen screening in drug safety and allergen detection in clinic.
Effects of silicon dioxide surface roughness on Raman characteristics and mechanical properties of graphene
Authors: Wang Quan , Li Yun , Bai Bing , Mao Wei , Wang Zegao , Ren Naifei
Published: October 2014

The effects of the surface roughness of a silicon dioxide substrate on the mechanical properties and Raman scattering of graphene prepared by chemical vapor deposition were investigated.
Preparation and characterization of flame retardant polyurethane foams containing phosphorus–nitrogen-functionalized lignin
Authors: Zhu Haibin , Peng Zumao , Chen Yongmei , Li Gaiyun , Wang Lei , Tang Yang , Pang Ran , Khan Zia Ul Haq , Wan Pingyu
Published: October 2014

Lignin-based phosphate melamine was used as a partial substitute for polyols to synthesize rigid polyurethane foams which exhibit high mechanical strength and low flammability.
Graphene-analogue boron nitride/Ag3PO4 composite for efficient visible-light-driven photocatalysis
Authors: Song Yanhua , Xu Hui , Wang Cheng , Chen Jiajia , Yan Jia , Xu Yuanguo , Li Yeping , Liu Chengbao , Li Huaming , Lei Yucheng
Published: October 2014

Graphene-analogue BN modified Ag3PO4 photocatalysts were successfully prepared. In the presence of the BN, it could effectively enhance the photoactivity and stability of Ag3PO4.
Conformational transition of a non-associative fluorinated amphiphile in aqueous solution
Authors: Taraban Marc B. , Yu Li , Feng Yue , Jouravleva Elena V. , Anisimov Mikhail A. , Jiang Zhong-Xing , Yu Y. Bruce
Published: October 2014

A non-associative fluorinated amphiphile was synthesized. Instead of self-association at high concentrations, this amphiphile undergoes conformational transition in which the hydrophilic tails wrap around the fluorocarbon core to shield it from water, bearing certain similarity to protein folding in a crowded environment.
Molten salt synthesis of nano-sized Li4Ti5O12 doped with Fe2O3 for use as anode material in the lithium-ion battery
Authors: Guo Qingjun , Li Shiyan , Wang Heng , Gao Yuan , Li Bing
Published: October 2014

Fe2O3 modified Li4Ti5O12 anode material with differing content of Fe2O3 was synthesized for the first time by the molten salt method. The Li4Ti4.8Fe0.2O12 electrode showed the best rate performance and superior cycling stability.
Palladium nanoparticles encapsulated inside the pores of a metal–organic framework as a highly active catalyst for carbon–carbon cross-coupling
Authors: Shang Ningzhao , Gao Shutao , Zhou Xin , Feng Cheng , Wang Zhi , Wang Chun
Published: October 2014

Palladium nanoparticles were successfully encapsulated in the cages of MIL-101, which exhibited high catalytic activity toward the C–C coupling reactions.
Stereoselective adsorption utilizingl-phenylalanine imprinting chiral ordered mesoporous silica
Authors: Su Meng-xiang , Liu Zhong-ying , Chen Jin-long , Cheng Li-fei , Li Bo , Yan Fang , Di Bin
Published: October 2014

l-Phenylalanine imprinting chiral ordered mesoporous silica (l-Phe-COMS) was endowed with unique structural features, showing a high stereoselective adsorption factor of up to 3.24 forl-phenylalanine overd-phenylalanine.
Ligand functionalization as a deactivation pathway in a fac-Ir(ppy)3-mediated radical addition
Authors: Devery III James J. , Douglas James J. , Nguyen John D. , Cole Kevin P. , Flowers II Robert A. , Stephenson Corey R. J.
Published: October 2014

Kinetic, synthetic, and spectroscopic evidence demonstrates the instability of fac-Ir(ppy)3 under visible light-mediated photoredox conditions resulting from in situ functionalization.
Fast membrane hemifusion via dewetting between lipid bilayers
Authors: Vargas Jose Nabor , Seemann Ralf , Fleury Jean-Baptiste
Published: October 2014

The behavior of lipid bilayers is important to understand the functionality of cells like the trafficking of ions between cells.
Facile fabrication and photoelectrochemical properties of a one axis-oriented NiO thin film with a (111) dominant facet
Authors: Kim Chang Woo , Son Young Seok , Pawar Amol Uttam , Kang Myoung Jong , Zheng Jin You , Sharma Vivek , Mohanty Paritosh , Kang Young Soo
Published: October 2014

A one axis-oriented p-type NiO monolayer film with a (111) dominant facet on ITO glass was fabricated for use as a photocathodic electrode.
Template-free method towards quadrate Co3O4 nanoboxes from cobalt coordination polymer nano-solids for high performance lithium ion battery anodes
Authors: Song Huawei , Shen Lisha , Wang Chengxin
Published: October 2014

Excellent electrochemical properties were realized in quadrate Co3O4 nanoboxes derived from relevant coordination polymer nano-solids.
Graphene/silk fibroin based carbon nanocomposites for high performance supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Yaxian , Song Yanfang , Wang Yu , Chen Xin , Xia Yongyao , Shao Zhengzhong
Published: October 2014

A novel way is provided to harvest a high performance graphene/silk fibroin based carbon (GCN-S) material for supercapacitors.
Hyperbranched polyether as an all-purpose epoxy modifier: controlled synthesis and toughening mechanisms
Authors: Liu Tuan , Nie Yongxing , Chen Ruoshi , Zhang Liangdong , Meng Yan , Li Xiaoyu
Published: October 2014

Controlled synthesis and toughening mechanisms of an all-purpose hyperbranched modifier, which can form non-phase-separated networks with simultaneous enhancements inTg, modulus, impact and tensile strengths.
Development of functional hybrid cotton fabrics by coating with SiO2 and ZrO2/SiO2 composites
Authors: Dhineshbabu Nattanmi Raman , Manivasakan Palanisamy , Prabu Periasamy , Gobi Nallathambi , Palaniswamy Nallambalayam K. , Rajendran Venkatachalam
Published: October 2014

The silica (SiO2) sol and hybrid zirconia (ZrO2)/SiO2 sol were used to coat cotton fabrics using the pad‐dry‐cure method to improve their physical and functional properties. The physical properties of coated and uncoated fabrics, such as tensile strength, tear strength, crease recovery angle, air permeability and whiteness index, were tested as per the standard test methods. The wash durability of the coating on the fabric was also analysed after five and 10 wash cycles. The observed results show that the ZrO2/SiO2‐coated fabric has better physical properties than SiO2‐coated and uncoated fabrics. In addition, an antibacterial activity test confirms that the SiO2‐coated fabric possesses higher antibacterial properties against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus than the ZrO2/SiO2‐coated fabrics.
Competition through Interurban Policy Making: Bidding to Host Megaevents as Entrepreneurial Networking
Authors: Lauermann John
Published: October 2014

Recent scholarship on policy mobility, globally active municipal governments, and transnational city-to-city policy making suggest a new dynamic in entrepreneurial cities: entrepreneurialism based not only on place competition, but also based on practices of interurban networking. This paper argues that cross-city initiatives to share planning expertise can function both as policy-making networks and as markets for policy knowledge, as urban governance stakeholders strategically leverage intercity initiatives for sharing urban planning knowledge. Bidding to host sporting ‘megaevents’ highlights these networked entrepreneurial strategies. A comparative study of bids to host the Olympic Games over a twenty-year period shows that policy-making knowledge (templates, models, and best practices) shared between cities is both necessary for competing to host events, and represents ‘policy commodities’ that planning coalitions can use as part of their entrepreneurial portfolios. While much commentary on interurban policy making focuses on how policy practices are received by cities or mobilized by international businesses or policy makers, this paper signals to a multidirectional entrepreneurial strategy: although megaevents federations and sponsors developed megaevents knowledge networks to leverage urban planning for profit, many local development coalitions have incorporated these same networks into their competitive strategies.
The Future of Ruins: The Baroque Melancholy of Hashima
Authors: Lavery Carl , Dixon Deborah P , Hassall Lee
Published: October 2014

Here, we present an iteration of our theoretical/creative writing project Hashima, begun in 2012. The paper is a collaboration and draws on the different discourses, practices and sensibilities of a performance theorist, a geographer, and a visual artist. For us, Hashima, located off the coast of Nagasaki, Japan, and a former site of forced labor and intensive offshore coal-mining, is a provocation for experimentation. Hashima, exploited and abject, has offered itself, unsurprisingly, to the fetishistic gaze of artists, photographers urban explorers, and ruin enthusiasts. The logic here is to control representation, and to determine and fix the meaning of the island as always in reference to something else and elsewhere. Paradoxically, there is no sense of temporality or transformation in these representations of ruins; time has been stopped in an image. By contrast, we want to draw out the allegorical value of Hashima not as a site of loss, but as a baroque, blasted landscape of monstrous becomings that resists, and forefronts, this tendency to collapse history into nature. In the following, we introduce the island before turning to an exegesis of Walter Benjamin's writing on German baroque tragedy in order to demonstrate how representation itself becomes tainted through a material encounter with the baroque's two primary topoi, the ruin and the labyrinth. To do this, we finish with a creative narrative and two images illustrating our methodology.
Effect of high temperatures on breeding rabbit behaviour
Authors: Dalmau Antoni , Catanese Bernardo , Rafel Oriol , Rodriguez Pedro , Fuentes Carmen , Llonch Pol , Mainau Eva , Velarde Antonio , Ramón Josep , Taberner Ester , López-Béjar Manel , Piles Miriam
Published: October 2014

The present work is focussed on the behavioural response of rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) housed in typical commercial conditions subjected to two different environmental temperature circadian cycles: one below the combination of temperature and humidity that is considered as stressful for rabbits, and the other with some hours a day subjected to moderately stressful temperatures. During the experiment, a total of 55 commercial breeding hybrid rabbits were housed in each room (43 nulliparous does and 12 bucks). Of these, 10 females (six 105 days old and four 80 days old) and 6 males (180 days old) were studied for 12 days, 12 h a day using video cameras to later scan sample for behaviour at 5-min intervals. Rabbits were divided into two rooms. Five females and three males were housed at 18.4°C mean temperature (Room A). The other five females and three males were housed at 20.1°C for 17 h a day, and at a temperature humidity index from 23.6 to 28.2 for the remaining 7 h (Room B). Posture (lying, sitting, prostrated or moving) and behaviour (grooming, exploring, resting, feeding and drinking) were assessed. Faecal cortisol metabolites (FCM) were also analysed, once before and after the behavioural study, from seven samples in each room. Statistical analyses were performed using the GENMOD procedure in SAS. No differences were found between rooms in FCM during the behaviour assessment. However, the presence of resting behaviour and prostration was higher (P < 0.05) in Room B than Room A and the opposite (P < 0.05) was observed for lying, sitting and exploring. In the case of grooming, a compensatory effect was observed in Room B, as rabbits reduced this activity in the warmest period of the day but increased it just before and after this period, which was not seen in Room A. It is concluded that behavioural changes can be observed in does and bucks subjected to moderately stressful thermal conditions before those changes can be seen in faecal cortisol concentration.
Detection of chromosomal segments underlying scrotal circumference in ram lambs and age at onset of puberty in ewe lambs
Authors: Esmailizadeh A. K.
Published: October 2014

Scrotal circumference (SC) is highly correlated with total sperm production and quality of the produced semen. In ewe lambs, puberty is an important reproductive trait and extreme delay in reaching puberty will have a negative effect on breeding efficiency. To identify genomic regions (QTL) underlying variation in SC and age at onset of puberty in ewe lambs (AP), a whole genome scan was performed with 169 microsatellites covering the ovine autosomes. Progeny (360 animals) from six half-sib families in a population of Kermani sheep, an indigenous fat tailed sheep breed in south-east of Iran, were recorded for SC and AP. Linkage analysis using the interval mapping approach indicated a total of 21 QTL for the studied traits on nine chromosomes (OAR1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 11, 18 and 24), including a 5% genome wide significant QTL for SC on OAR5. There was evidence for the overlap of QTL affecting SC and AP on OAR5 and OAR9. The size of the QTL effect ranged from 0.8 to 1.6 in units of the phenotypic standard deviation. Although QTL for testis size in ram lambs have been mapped, this is the first report of QTL for age at onset of puberty in ewe lambs. Pursuing the underlying causes of these QTL may shed light on the molecular aspects of male and female reproductive development in sheep.
Bayesian analysis of energy balance data from growing cattle using parametric and non-parametric modelling
Authors: Moraes L. E. , Kebreab E. , Strathe A. B. , France J. , Dijkstra J. , Casper D. P. , Fadel J. G.
Published: October 2014

Linear and non-linear models have been extensively utilised for the estimation of net and metabolisable energy requirements and for the estimation of the efficiencies of utilising dietary energy for maintenance and tissue gain. In growing animals, biological principles imply that energy retention rate is non-linearly related to the energy intake level because successive increments in energy intake above maintenance result in diminishing returns for tissue energy accretion. Heat production in growing cattle has been traditionally described by logarithmic regression and exponential models. The objective of the present study was to develop Bayesian models of energy retention and heat production in growing cattle using parametric and non-parametric techniques. Parametric models were used to represent models traditionally employed to describe energy use in growing steers and heifers whereas the non-parametric approach was introduced to describe energy utilisation while accounting for non-linearities without specifying a particular functional form. The Bayesian framework was used to incorporate prior knowledge of bioenergetics on tissue retention and heat production and to estimate net and metabolisable energy requirements (NEM and MEM, respectively), and the partial efficiencies of utilising dietary metabolisable energy for maintenance (km) and tissue energy gain (kg). The database used for the study consisted of 719 records of indirect calorimetry on steers and non-pregnant, non-lactating heifers. The NEM was substantially larger in energy retention models (ranged from 0.40 to 0.50 MJ/kg BW0.75.day) than were NEM estimates from heat-production models (ranged from 0.29 to 0.49 MJ/kg BW0.75.day). Similarly, km was also larger in energy retention models than in heat production models. These differences are explained by the nature of y-intercepts (NEM) in these two models. Energy retention models estimate fasting catabolism as the y-intercept, while heat production models estimate fasting heat production. Conversely, MEM was virtually identical in all models and approximately equal to 0.53 MJ/kg BW0.75.day in this database.
Modelling of the nitrogen deposition and dietary lysine requirements of Redbro broilers
Authors: dos Santos P. A. , Rabello C. B. V. , Sakomura N. K. , da Silva E. P. , Dorigam J. C. P. , dos Santos M. J. B. , Lorena-Rezende I. M. B.
Published: October 2014

The aim of this study was to determine the coefficients of the Goettingen model for Redbro birds and estimate the digestible lysine requirements. To determine the model parameters, three nitrogen balance trials were performed in Periods I (14–28 days), II (42–56 days) and III (70–84 days), using 42 birds per trial. The birds were individually housed and subjected to six diets with increasing levels of nitrogen, with lysine as the limiting amino acid (deficient by 20% in relation to other amino acids). Dietary nitrogen concentrations were 8, 16, 24, 32, 40 and 48 g/kg. A control diet was added to confirm lysine as the first limiting amino acid. Nitrogen balance trials were divided into 5 days of adaptation and two periods of excreta collection, each one of 5 days. The response of the birds to a control diet confirmed that lysine was the first limiting amino acid. The adjustment of the exponential functions between nitrogen retention or excretion and nitrogen intake allowed estimation of parameters of the Goettingen model. The maximum potential for nitrogen retention was 3276, 2585 and 2603 mg/BWkg0.67.day, nitrogen maintenance requirement was 225, 135 and 122 mg/BWkg0.67.day and efficiency of nitrogen utilisation was 313 × 10−6, 406 × 10−6 and 415 × 10−6 in the phases of 14–28, 42–56 and 70–84 days. The digestible lysine intake for Periods I, II and III, based on 60% of the maximum potential for nitrogen retention, was 711, 989 and 1272 mg/day (1.225%, 1.137% and 1.09% of lysine in the diet for a daily feed intake of 58, 87and 117 g/day), respectively.
Potential integration of multi-fitting, inverse problem and mechanistic modelling approaches to applied research in animal science: a review
Authors: Vargas-Villamil L. M. , Tedeschi L. O.
Published: October 2014

Modern researchers working in applied animal science systems have faced issues with modelling huge quantities of data. Modelling approaches that have previously been used to model biological systems are having problems to adapt to increased number of publications and research. So as to develop new approaches that have the potential to deal with these fast-changing complex conditions, it is relevant to review modern modelling approaches that have been used successfully in other fields. Therefore, this paper reviews the potential capacity of new integrated applied animal-science approaches to discriminate parameters, interpret data and understand biological processes. The analysis shows that the principal challenge is handling ill-conditioned complex models, but an integrated approach can obtain meaningful information from complementary data that cannot be obtained from present applied animal-science approaches. Furthermore, it is shown that parameter sloppiness and data complementarity are key concepts during system behaviour restrictions and parameter discrimination. Additionally, model evaluation and implementation of the potential integrated approach are reviewed. Finally, the objective of an integral approach is discussed. Our conclusion is that these approaches have the potential to be used to deepen the understanding of applied animal systems, and that exist enough developed resources and methodologies to deal with the huge quantities of data associated with this science.
Northern Australian pasture and beef systems. 2. Validation and use of the Sustainable Grazing Systems (SGS) whole-farm biophysical model
Authors: Doran-Browne Natalie A. , Bray Steven G. , Johnson Ian R. , O'Reagain Peter J. , Eckard Richard J.
Published: October 2014

The Sustainable Grazing Systems (SGS) model is a biophysical, mechanistic whole-farm model that simulates pasture production based on climate and soil data. While the SGS model has been extensively used for southern temperate systems, the model has yet to be evaluated for use in the tropical rangeland systems of Australia. New pasture parameter sets were developed in SGS to represent groups of grasses with the following common characteristics: (1) 3P grasses represented tropical rangeland grasses that were perennial, palatable and productive, and (2) annual tropical grasses that include both productive and less productive grass species. Fifteen years of data from the long-term Wambiana grazing trial ~70 km south-west of Charters Towers, Queensland, were used to validate the model. The results showed that SGS is capable of representing northern Australian beef systems with modelled outputs for total standing dry matter and steer liveweight in agreement with the year-to-year variation in measured data over three different soil types and two stocking rates. Recommendations for further model development are made, such as incorporating fire, tree growth and the use of urea supplementation in the model. Further testing is required to verify that the new pasture parameter sets are suitable for other regions in northern Australia.
Collaborative approaches to accessing and utilising historical citizen science data: a case-study with spearfishers from eastern Australia
Authors: Gledhill Daniel C. , Hobday Alistair J. , Welch David J. , Sutton Stephen G. , Lansdell Matthew J. , Koopman Mathew , Jeloudev Adrian , Smith Adam , Last Peter R.
Published: October 2014

Scientists are increasingly utilising non-traditional data to assist with defining biological baselines and for monitoring environmental change. These data present challenges not encountered with traditional, fit-for-purpose scientific data, including engaging with data owners, building trust and maintaining relationships, analysing and interpreting data collected under varying methodologies, and the possibility that data may not suit an intended purpose. Here we describe engagement activities undertaken with recreational spearfishers to collate and examine spearfishing club data collected from competitions held throughout south-eastern Australia from the 1960s until the present, representing one of the most extensive citizen science datasets for marine species in the region. The data proved suitable for demonstrating change in coastal fish communities, some of which were consistent with expectations given a warming climate over the period considered. With an attitudinal survey of divers we also asked about their experience of environmental change, and interaction with management over recent decades. Mutually beneficial outcomes include: collating and archiving significant data that may otherwise have been lost; improved understanding of spearfisher concerns and experiences; improved engagement between collaborators; and recognition of spearfishers’ desire for better engagement in science and management. Lessons learnt may be broadly applicable to improving collaboration between recreational fishers, citizen science groups, researchers and managers.
Migratory patterns and habitat use of the sand tiger shark (Carcharias taurus) in the western North Atlantic
Authors: Teter Shara M. , Wetherbee Bradley M. , Fox Dewayne A. , Lam Chi H. , Kiefer Dale A. , Shivji Mahmood
Published: October 2014

Globally, population declines for the sand tiger shark (Carcharias taurus) have resulted in calls for informed management of populations, including in the western North Atlantic, where they have been listed as a Species of Concern by NOAA Fisheries. However, information on movements and habitat use, critical for informed management of this sand tiger population, is limited. We investigated horizontal and vertical movements of sand tigers along the US east coast using pop-up archival satellite transmitters, supplemented by acoustic telemetry. Thirteen sand tiger sharks were tagged with satellite and acoustic transmitters in Delaware Bay in late August and early September 2008. Ten of these provided satellite data for horizontal tracks using a Kalman filter. Males left Delaware Bay in autumn and moved south along the continental shelf until reaching waters off North Carolina. Females moved east to waters near the edge of the continental slope. Average depth of males was positively correlated with shark size. All individuals spent at least 95% of their time in waters of 17–23°C. Sand tiger sharks appear most susceptible to fisheries in November and December. Slight expansion of the boundaries and timing of an existing shark-directed bottom longline area closure would likely reduce by-catch of sand tiger sharks and enhance recovery of the stock.
Climatic indices for determining risks to the distribution and maintenance of Quercus emoryi Torr. (Fagaceae) in Mexico
Authors: Torres-Meza Maria de Jesus , Baez-Gonzalez Alma Delia , Ramos-Gonzalez Jose Luis
Published: October 2014

Mexico is one of the two centres of diversification of oaks (Quercus spp.) in the world, with 161 species, 66% of which are endemic. The local-scale analysis of trends in climate variables, using climate indices, can be useful in estimating both the potential benefits and risks presented by climate to oak populations. Since the minimum January temperature is an important limiting factor in the distribution of Quercus emoryi Torr. in Mexico, this study analysed trends in this variable in the area of distribution of the species and identified the populations likely to be affected by them. The RClimDex 1.0 software was used to analyse trends of nine climate indices related to minimum temperature recorded in 14 weather stations in the area of the species’ potential distribution in Mexico. Data from five stations showed significant trends related to an increase in minimum January temperature, whereas data from seven stations showed trends of a decrease in this variable. Populations of the species, mainly in the ecoregion containing piedmonts and plains with grassland, scrubland and forests in the Cuauhtemoc region in Chihuahua state, and Cuencame and Canatlan regions in Durango state, could be affected by these trends. The information on at-risk populations may be used for in situ and ex situ species conservation programs.
Education and our conversations about, with and through technology
Authors: Redekopp Reynold
Published: October 2014

This discussion of technology in education considers three aspects of dialogue.
The first is a subtle dialogue where students and teachers negotiate the impact
of the tacit knowledge inherent in the technology. Any technology carries a
bias and has metaphors embedded in both the design and practical use. The
second is the conversation we engage in as we try to shape the technology to do
our bidding, and as we adapt to what the technology wants us to do. The third
idea focuses on how we carry on our conversations with others through the
technology and how the medium influences the message. The underlying question
is how do we use the technology to move beyond fact gathering to deeper
thinking?