bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Motif‐Designed Peptide Nanofibers Decorated with Graphene Quantum Dots for Simultaneous Targeting and Imaging of Tumor Cells
Authors: Su Zhiqiang , Shen Huiyan , Wang Haixia , Wang Jinhui , Li Jingfeng , Nienhaus Gerd Ulrich , Shang Li , Wei Gang
Published: July 2015

Nanohybrids based on biomolecular nanostructures and graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have found wide application in the biological and biomedical fields. Herein, the design of a peptide with trifunctional motifs is reported as the precursor building block for constructing a novel multifunctional protein nanofiber (PNF), and further conjugated with highly fluorescent GQDs by noncovalent interactions. The physicochemical properties of these PNF–GQD nanohybrids are thoroughly characterized by a variety of spectroscopic and microscopic techniques, revealing that the GQDs essentially maintain their favorable optical properties in the nanohybrids. A good biocompatibility of the PNF–GQD nanohybrids is found with cell viability assays. With both, a recognition moiety (RGD) and an imaging probe (GQD), these PNF–GQD nanohybrids possess the capability of targeting and imaging tumor cells simultaneously. A potential application of these novel nanohybrids, i.e., fluorescence imaging of HeLa tumor cells, has been investigated by confocal fluorescence microscopy, which shows much enhanced labeling efficiency compared with GQDs only. Moreover, cellular internalization by nontumorous COS‐7 cells was much weaker than by HeLa cells. Our results show that GQD‐decorated PNF nanohybrids have great potential as multifunctional platforms for biomedical applications, particularly, where the capability of sensitive tracking and efficient labeling is appreciated.
Brønsted Acid‐Catalyzed Cascade Reactions Involving 1,2‐Indole Migration
Authors: Álvarez Estela , Nieto Faza Olalla , Silva López Carlos , Fernández‐Rodríguez Manuel A. , Sanz Roberto
Published: July 2015

A cascade reaction of indoles with propargylic diols involving an unprecedented metal‐free 1,2‐indole migration onto an alkyne was carried out. DFT calculations support a mechanism consisting of a concerted nucleophilic attack of the indole nucleus with loss of water, followed by the 1,2‐migration and subsequent Nazarov cyclization. This Brønsted acid‐catalyzed protocol affords indole‐functionalized benzofulvene derivatives in high yields.
Fertility preservation knowledge, counseling, and actions among adolescent and young adult patients with cancer: A population‐based study
Authors: Shnorhavorian Margarett , Harlan Linda C. , Smith Ashley Wilder , Keegan Theresa H.M. , Lynch Charles F. , Prasad Pinki K. , Cress Rosemary D. , Wu Xiao‐Cheng , Hamilton Ann S. , Parsons Helen M. , Keel Gretchen , Charlesworth Sarah E. , Schwartz Stephen M. ,   AYA HOPE Study Collaborative Group
Published: July 2015

BACKGROUND

The fertility of adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients with cancer can be threatened by treatments, but to the authors' knowledge little is known regarding the extent to which providers discuss this with patients or recommend fertility preservation, or the patient and physician characteristics associated with these interactions.

METHODS

Questionnaires from 459 AYA patients with cancer who were diagnosed between 2007 and 2008 and recruited through 7 US population‐based cancer registries were analyzed using sex‐specific multivariable models. The authors assessed characteristics associated with not discussing therapy effects on fertility or fertility preservation options, and not making fertility preservation arrangements.

RESULTS

Males without a medical oncologist were more likely not to be told that therapy might affect fertility than those with a medical oncologist (male odds ratio [OR], 2.28; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.03‐5.00). Individuals without insurance (male OR, 2.91 [95% CI, 1.41‐5.91] and female OR, 5.46 [95% CI, 1.59‐18.72]); those raising children aged <18 years; and, among males only, those who received treatment posing no or a low fertility risk (OR, 3.39; 95% CI, 1.60‐7.16) were more likely not to discuss fertility preservation with providers. Finally, among males, those without a college degree (OR, 1.98; 95% CI, 1.00‐3.97), lacking private insurance (OR, 2.97; 95% CI, 1.16‐7.63), and raising children aged <18 years (OR, 3.53; 95% CI, 1.63‐7.65) were more likely to not make fertility preservation arrangements; too few females had made fertility preservation arrangements for similar analyses to be performed.

CONCLUSIONS

Discussion and action surrounding fertility preservation for AYA patients with cancer are associated with medical factors, patient socioeconomic data, and child‐rearing status. These results highlight the need for insurance coverage for fertility preservation and increased awareness of fertility preservation options. Cancer 2015;121:3435–43. © 2015 American Cancer Society.
Cervical cytological screening: Assessment of the Fournier® self‐sampling device in a cervical pathology outpatient clinic
Authors: da Silva Rocha Alexandre , Guilherme Schaefer Pedro , Isabel Albano Edelweiss Maria
Published: July 2015

Background

The objective of this study was to investigate the performance of the Fournier® self‐sampled device in the cytological diagnosis of cervical precursor or neoplastic lesions. The colposcopy and cervical biopsy were used as the gold standard evaluation.

Method

This was a case–control study performed at a cervical pathology outpatient clinic from January 2008 to October 2009. Samples were obtained through physician‐collected mode before a colposcopic evaluation. Liquid‐based cytology slides obtained with the device in question were stained using the Papanicolaou method and anti‐p16 immunocytochemistry and were analyzed by two pathologists blind to the histological and colposcopic diagnoses.

Results

Diagnostic performance for Fournier device using Papanicolaou technique was sensitivity 41.1% (Pathologist 1—P1) and 52.9% (Pathologist 2—P2) for diagnosing low‐grade intraepithelial lesions; for high‐grade lesions and cervical cancer, sensitivity was 68.7% (P1) and 75.0% (P2) and specificity was 81.8% (P1) and 73.8% (P2). When using the anti‐p16 immunocytochemistry, the sensitivity for diagnosing low‐grade intraepithelial lesions was 57.1% (P1) and 62.9% (P2), and the sensitivity was 87.5% (P1) and 93.8% (P2) for high‐grade lesions and cancer. The specificity was 75.0% (P1) and 54.4% (P2).

Conclusions

These results show that when used with “blind” physician‐collected cytology in an outpatient setting, the Fournier® device achieved a sensitivity and specificity comparable to those obtained by the Pap test traditionally collected during a speculum examination. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2015;43:802–809. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Myocardial T1 mapping at 3.0 tesla using an inversion recovery spoiled gradient echo readout and bloch equation simulation with slice profile correction (BLESSPC) T1 estimation algorithm
Authors: Shao Jiaxin , Rapacchi Stanislas , Nguyen Kim‐Lien , Hu Peng
Published: July 2015

Background

To develop an accurate and precise myocardial T1 mapping technique using an inversion recovery spoiled gradient echo readout at 3.0 Tesla (T).

Theory and Methods

The modified Look‐Locker inversion‐recovery (MOLLI) sequence was modified to use fast low angle shot (FLASH) readout, incorporating a BLESSPC (Bloch Equation Simulation with Slice Profile Correction) T1 estimation algorithm, for accurate myocardial T1 mapping. The FLASH‐MOLLI with BLESSPC fitting was compared with different approaches and sequences with regards to T1 estimation accuracy, precision and image artifact based on simulation, phantom studies, and in vivo studies of 10 healthy volunteers and three patients at 3.0 Tesla.

Results

The FLASH‐MOLLI with BLESSPC fitting yields accurate T1 estimation (average error = −5.4 ± 15.1 ms, percentage error = −0.5% ± 1.2%) for T1 from 236–1852 ms and heart rate from 40–100 bpm in phantom studies. The FLASH‐MOLLI sequence prevented off‐resonance artifacts in all 10 healthy volunteers at 3.0T. In vivo, there was no significant difference between FLASH‐MOLLI‐derived myocardial T1 values and “ShMOLLI+IE” derived values (1458.9 ± 20.9 ms versus 1464.1 ± 6.8 ms, P = 0.50); However, the average precision by FLASH‐MOLLI was significantly better than that generated by “ShMOLLI+IE” (1.84 ± 0.36% variance versus 3.57 ± 0.94%, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The FLASH‐MOLLI with BLESSPC fitting yields accurate and precise T1 estimation, and eliminates banding artifacts associated with bSSFP at 3.0T. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;43:414–425.
Improved Synthesis of Oligomeric Sulfone‐Based Phthalonitriles
Authors: Laskoski Matthew , Keller Teddy M. , Ricks‐Laskoski Holly L. , Giller Carl B. , Hervey Judson
Published: July 2015

An improved method has been developed to produce an oligomeric sulfonyl‐containing phthalo­nitrile with better processability. The oligomeric phthalonitrile monomer is prepared from the reaction of an excess amount of bisphenol A with 4‐(chlorophenyl)sulfone in the presence of a mixed base system (NaOH/K2CO3) in a dimethylsulfoxide/toluene solvent mixture, followed by end‐capping with 4‐nitrophthalonitrile in a two‐step, one‐pot reaction. This phthalonitrile resin exhibits lower viscosities than previously reported systems for molding into various shapes. After being thermally cured to yield crosslinked polymers, this sulfonyl‐based polymer demonstrates superb mechanical properties and thermo‐oxidative stability, absorbs less than 1.0 weight percent water, and maintains good dielectric properties.

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Thermally Conductive Adhesive from Chemically Modified Cellulose and Nanoparticle of Surfactant‐Doped Polypyrrole
Authors: Draman Sarifah Fauziah Syed , Daik Rusli , El‐Sheikh Said M. , Latif Famiza Abdul
Published: July 2015

Nanocomposite of thermally conductive adhesive was prepared from cellulose‐based adhesive, TSA‐doped Ppy and ceramic filler via colloidal dispersion. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning colorimetry (DSC) were used to characterize the nanocomposites. Electrical and thermal conductivity were measured by using frequency response analyzer and thermal analyzer, respectively. Results showed that the prepared thermally conductive adhesive was stable at relatively high temperature. The electrical conductivity found for the nanocomposite was in the range of semi conductive region. Meanwhile, the thermal conductivity was higher than the conventional polymer.
Insertion of Platinum Particles in Bacterial Cellulose Membranes from PtCl4 and H2PtCl6 Precursors
Authors: Aritonang Henry Fonda , Onggo Djulia ,   Ciptati , Radiman Chyntia L.
Published: July 2015

The Pt nanoparticles have been synthesized in situ using bacterial cellulose (BC) membranes as the matrix. The BC was immersed in a solution of PtCl4 and H2PtCl6 as Pt(IV) precursors also in surfactant stabilized Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNT) as carbon source. Then, the Pt(IV) was reduced by hydrogen gas. Two routes have been applied for the insertion Pt particles; in the first route the Pt particles were inserted before the insertion of MWCNT and in the second route the other way around was applied. The products of these two insertion routes for each precursor are designated as BC‐‐MWCNT, BC‐‐MWCNT for the first route and BC‐MWCNT‐, BC‐MWCNT‐ for the second route, respectively. Both routes revealed that the Pt particles insertion in BC depends on the type of precursors and insertion routes, as seen from the morphology and Pt particles content. The first route produces Pt diameter of 26 nm while the second one 42 nm. The use of PtCl4 in the first route resulted in higher content of Pt particles (50%) compared to H2PtCl6 (39%). On the other hand, the type of precursor did not give any significant effect to the content of Pt inserted; both gave 29% of Pt to the second route. The high Pt content observed on the BC‐‐MWCNT membrane surface is possible because PtCl4 precursor forms H2[PtCl4(OH)2] that initially can be bound via hydrogen bonding to the BC backbone. It is concluded that smaller size and high content of Pt particles have been obtained from PtCl4 precursor, the distribution of Pt particles and MWCNT are almost homogenous in the BC‐‐MWCNT membrane derived from precursor PtCl4.
Synthesis of ETP‐MMA and Lead Tetroxide Composites as Material for X‐Ray Radiation Shielding Door
Authors: Anggaravidya Mahendra , Sudirman  , Rarista Ruri , Budianto Emil , Soegijono Bambang
Published: July 2015

Manufacture of composite barrier X‐Ray radiation has been carried out by mixing Elastomer Thermoplastic‐Methyl Metacrylate (ETP‐MMA) with Pb3O4. The study was conducted with four variations: the variation of used rubber materials; the variation of rubber filler material composition; the variation of composite distance to the plane X‐rays; and the variations of composites thickness. Characterizations in this research are X‐ray radiation testing, mechanical testing, and scanning electron microscope (SEM) characterization. The characterizations show that the increasing of thermoplastic composition caused to the increasing of cavities, the reducing of radiation adsorption and the enhanching of mechanical properties. The addition of material composition gives an impact to the elevating of composite density, absorption of radiation, and hardness, but the decreasing of composite strength. Both thicker composite and greater distance between X‐ray machine resulting in greater radiation absorption. The best rubber material as the composite is TPE 30%. The largest composition is 500 phr. The optimum composition in the MMA‐TPE 50% is 435.82 phr with 0.4 cm of thickness. The optimum conditions of 50% MMA‐TPE composite with 0.2 cm of thickness is 168.19 cm in minimum distance between composite and X‐ray machine.
Effect of Carbon Fiber Loading in Mechanical Properties and Electrical Conductivity of Polyvinyl Alcohol Based Composites
Authors: Ismadi  , Herman Yuwono Akhmad , Astutiningsih Sotya , Subyakto
Published: July 2015

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) needs to be reinforced with other material to increase its mechanical strength and electrical conductivity to get wider applications. In this research effect of addition of carbon fiber on the mechanical properties and electrical conductivity of PVA based composites was observed. Concentrations of carbon fiber applied were 0, 2, 4 and 6% w/w based on PVA dry weight. PVA film was synthesized by dilute solid PVA in water at temperature of 80 °C for 6 hours with 8% w/w of water, and continued with chilling for 12 h. Carbon fiber was added and stirred by ultra‐turrax for 40 seconds, and the solution was film‐casted. Characterization the composites include morphology analysis (optical microscope and SEM), crystallite size (X‐ray diffraction), mechanical test and electrical conductivity measurement. The result showed that tensile strength increase with increased of carbon fiber added. The optimal value of tensile strength (34.08 MPa) was obtained from 2% w/w of carbon fibers. Addition of 6% w/w of carbon fiber increased electrical conductivity up to 1.33 × 10−3 S/cm, this was significantly enhanced from that net PVA of 2.3 × 10−8 S/cm. Generally, addition of carbon fiber increase tensile strength and electrical conductivity of PVA based composites.
Copolymerization of Acrylamide with 9‐ and 10‐Acrylamidodecanoic Acids
Authors: Desnelli  , Mujahidin D. , Permana Y. , Radiman Chyntia L.
Published: July 2015

Copolymerization of acrylamide with 9‐ and 10‐acrylamidodecanoic acids (AADAs) has been carried out by free radical polymerization using ammonium persulphate as an initiator. AADA monomer was synthesized from 9‐decenoic acid via Ritter reaction using acrylonitrile and sulfuric acid as catalyst. Characterization of monomers and the resulting copolymers were performed by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Fourier Transform‐Infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy, respectively. The intrinsic viscosities of copolymers with various compositions were measured using Ubbelohde capillary viscometer in 1.0 M sodium chloride solution. It was found that the intrinsic viscosity of the copolymers decreased with increasing the AADA monomer content.
Freeze‐Thaw Treatment in 2% w/w NaOH‐6 M Urea Enhanced Extraction of β‐(1,3;1,4)‐Glucan from Corn Pericarp
Authors: Yoshida Tomoki , Honda Yoichi , Tujimoto Takashi , Uyama Hiroshi , Azuma Jun‐ichi
Published: July 2015

Enhancement of the extraction rate of β‐glucan from corn pericarp (CP) by repeated freeze‐thaw treatment of 2% w/w NaOH‐6 M urea solution was investigated with emphasis on the association of β‐glucan with cellulose in CP. Three freeze‐thaw cycles were found to be adequate for extraction of β‐glucan at a rate of 97.8%. The increase in extraction rate induced by the freeze‐thaw treatment was estimated to be approximately 20%. The natural cellulose I structure of the cellulose in CP was disrupted by the freeze‐thaw treatment, suggesting that the increase was due to greater β‐glucan solubilization owing to the disruption of its association with cellulose by hydrogen bonds. The applicability of the present technique to other cereals was also demonstrated; extraction rates of 82.8% for oat meal and 92.5% for barley flour were achieved.
Image reconstruction using a gradient impulse response model for trajectory prediction
Authors: Vannesjo S. Johanna , Graedel Nadine N. , Kasper Lars , Gross Simon , Busch Julia , Haeberlin Maximilian , Barmet Christoph , Pruessmann Klaas P.
Published: July 2015

Purpose

Gradient imperfections remain a challenge in MRI, especially for sequences relying on long imaging readouts. This work aims to explore image reconstruction based on k‐space trajectories predicted by an impulse response model of the gradient system.

Theory and Methods

Gradient characterization was performed twice with 3 years interval on a commercial 3 Tesla (T) system. The measured gradient impulse response functions were used to predict actual k‐space trajectories for single‐shot echo‐planar imaging (EPI), spiral and variable‐speed EPI sequences. Image reconstruction based on the predicted trajectories was performed for phantom and in vivo data. Resulting images were compared with reconstructions based on concurrent field monitoring, separate trajectory measurements, and nominal trajectories.

Results

Image reconstruction using model‐based trajectories yielded high‐quality images, comparable to using separate trajectory measurements. Compared with using nominal trajectories, it strongly reduced ghosting, blurring, and geometric distortion. Equivalent image quality was obtained with the recent characterization and that performed 3 years prior.

Conclusion

Model‐based trajectory prediction enables high‐quality image reconstruction for technically challenging sequences such as single‐shot EPI and spiral imaging. It thus holds great promise for fast structural imaging and advanced neuroimaging techniques, including functional MRI, diffusion tensor imaging, and arterial spin labeling. The method can be based on a one‐time system characterization as demonstrated by successful use of 3‐year‐old calibration data. Magn Reson Med 76:45–58, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Conformational stability and vibrational study of phenylacetyl chloride
Authors: Tao Yaping , Han Ligang , Li Xiaofeng , Han Yunxia , Liu Zhaojun
Published: July 2015

The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Fourier transform Raman spectra of phenylacetyl chloride were recorded and analyzed in the range 3500–400 and 3500–200 cm−1 at room temperature, respectively. In order to obtain the structural information and conformational stabilities, a potential energy surface scan for internal rotation was carried out at the B3LYP/6‐31G(d) level. The potential energy surface reveals that the title compound has two minimal conformers (A and B). The optimized geometries, structural parameters, stabilities, energies, thermodynamic parameters, vibrational wavenumbers, infrared intensities, and Raman activities for the two conformers (A and B) have been obtained by employing B3LYP and MP2 calculations with 6‐311++G (d, p) basis sets. The conformational energy difference between A and B is very small, indicating that the B conformer coexists with the A conformer. The detailed vibrational assignments of vibrational spectra of each conformer have been made on the basis of the potential energy distributions analysis. The highest occupied molecular orbital–lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy gap and molecular electrostatic potential of the two conformers have been also calculated for comparison of their chemical activities. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Statistically rigorous analysis of imaging SIMS data in the presence of detector saturation
Authors: Gelb Lev D. , Bakhtiari Layla A. , Walker Amy V.
Published: July 2015

We present a new strategy for analyzing imaging time‐of‐flight SIMS data sets affected by detector saturation. Rather than attempt to correct the measured data to remove saturation, we incorporate the detector behavior into the statistical basis of the analysis. This is performed within the framework of maximum a posteriori reconstruction. The proposed approach has several advantages over previous techniques. No approximations are involved other than the assumed model of the detector. The method performs well even when applied to highly saturated and/or single‐scan data sets. It is statistically rigorous, correctly treating the underlying statistical distribution of the data. It is also compatible with Bayesian methods for incorporating prior knowledge about sample properties. An efficient iterative scheme for solving the proposed equations is presented for the case of the bilinear model commonly used in analyses of SIMS data. The correctness of the approach and its efficacy are demonstrated on synthetic data sets. The method is found to perform better than a widely‐used data‐correction method used in combination with alternating‐least‐squares Multivariate Curve Resolution analysis. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Limitations and breakdown of Monin–Obukhov similarity theory for wind profile extrapolation under stable stratification
Authors: Optis Michael , Monahan Adam , Bosveld Fred C.
Published: July 2015

The intent of this study is to investigate the limitations of the Monin–Obukhov similarity theory (MOST) for wind profile extrapolation—particularly its breakdown in stable stratification—and to explore several modifications intended to circumvent aspects of this breakdown. Using 10years of 10min averaged data from the 213m Cabauw meteorological tower in the Netherlands, we first demonstrate the sensitivity of the logarithmic wind speed model to highly uncertain estimates of the roughness length, z0, and the associated limitations of applying the model in horizontally inhomogeneous conditions. We then demonstrate that these limitations can be mitigated by avoiding the use of z0 in the logarithmic wind speed model. Rather, by using a lower boundary above z0 (e.g. 10m) and a ‘bulk’ Obukhov length measured between two near‐surface altitudes, substantial improvements in wind speed extrapolation accuracy are found. Next, we demonstrate the limitations in applying the logarithmic wind speed model above the surface layer (SL), specifically the divergence of different forms of the MOST stability function, the role of the Coriolis force and the decoupling of surface winds from those aloft. Finally, we explore similarity‐based modifications to the logarithmic wind speed model that are intended to improve its accuracy above the SL, but we find that such modifications cannot circumvent the limitations described earlier. Given that modern hub heights and altitudes swept out by a wind turbine blade extend well beyond the range of applicability of MOST under conditions of stable stratification, new extrapolation models are required that are more applicable at these altitudes. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Parastomal Hernia: Impact on Quality of Life?
Authors: van Dijk Sven M. , Timmermans Lucas , Deerenberg Eva B. , Lamme Bas , Kleinrensink Gert‐Jan , Jeekel Johannes , Lange Johan F.
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Parastomal hernia (PH) is a frequent complication after end‐colostomy formation. PH may negatively influence the quality of life in end‐colostomy patients. Our study investigates the quality of life and body image (BI) in patients with an end‐colostomy.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study of end‐colostomy patients in two different hospitals. Patients were included if they had received a Hartmann procedure or abdominal perineal resection between 2004 and 2011. Patients were invited to the outpatient clinic for clinical examination to determine if a PH was present and were asked to fill out the Short form 36, EuroQol‐5D, and body image questionnaire (BIQ).

Results

One‐hundred‐and‐fifty patients were eligible for the study; 139 filled out the questionnaires, of which 79 (56.8 %) had developed a PH. A linear multivariate regression showed PH caused a decrease in physical functioning (difference −10.2, p = 0.033) and general health (difference −9.0, p = 0.021), increase in pain (difference −11.3, p = 0.009) and decrease in the overall physical component score (difference −4.8, p = 0.020). The BIQ showed that PH increased the shame of the scar (difference −0.4, p = 0.010). Having an incisional hernia simultaneously decreased patients’ scoring of the scar in the BIQ (difference −0.99, p = 0.015).

Discussion

PHs cause significant decreases in quality of life and BI of patients. Counseling of patients towards PH and prevention of PH should therefore be of more concern in surgical departments.
Behavioural Management of Headache Triggers: Three Case Examples Illustrating a New Effective Approach (Learning to Cope with Triggers)
Authors: Martin Paul R. , Callan Moira , Kaur Archana , Gregg Karen
Published: July 2015

The traditional approach to headache trigger management is to advise avoidance of all triggers, but we have advocated an alternative approach called ‘Learning to Cope with Triggers’ (LCT), in which the objective is to desensitise headache sufferers to some triggers or to build up tolerance for the triggers, using exposure techniques. A recent publication established the efficacy of this approach to trigger management. Reported here are three cases to illustrate how LCT is used in practice. Two cases were male and one was female, with ages ranging from 32 to 67 years. The headache diagnoses were frequent episodic tension-type headache, migraine without aura, and chronic tension-type headache; all had had headaches since childhood/adolescence. The headache triggers that were the focus of the intervention were heat, tiredness, and stress/anger. Post-treatment, changes in the capacity of the triggers to elicit headaches were reported in all three cases. Reductions in headaches from pre- to post-treatment, and from pre- to 4-month follow-up, were: case 1, 69% and 60% respectively; case 2, 76% and 80% respectively; and case 3, 73% and 61% respectively. Decreases in medication consumption, and enhanced self-efficacy were also recorded.
Styles of Counterfactual Thoughts in People with and without Signs of Depression
Authors: Faccioli Juliana Sarantopoulos , Schelini Patricia Waltz
Published: July 2015

People in a depressive state frequently believe that things could have happened differently in their lives, which is regarded as counterfactual thought. This study aimed to investigate whether the styles of counterfactual thought shown by people with indicating signs of depression and by people without any of those signs are different. Study participants were 42 adults divided into two groups: those with signs of depression and those without signs of depression. Five stories taken from newspapers and magazines and fictional scenarios were presented to the participants. After reading such stories, participants had to answer questions about how the narrated facts could have been different from what they actually were. Results indicated similar counterfactual thought styles in both groups (with and without depression signs). Most of the thoughts found were categorized as upward, subtractive, self-referent and that modified an aspect referred to action/inaction. A few significant differences between groups were observed, and most of them were obtained through directed modifications, in the last three stories. Some tendencies were shown in the group of people with signs of depression, such as those found for the subtractive category, t(40) = 2.33, p < .05, which can indicate a trend of possible failure in the preparatory function of CT, and in the hetero-referral function, t(40) = 1.97, p < .05, indicating a difficulty in thinking of different forms of action in the future. The removal of negative events may indicate that these experiences are not beneficial to people’s survival. These results may indicate some tendencies about how people in depressive states think about past events.
Directionality of substrate translocation of the hemolysin A Type I secretion system
Authors: Lenders Michael H. H. , Weidtkamp-Peters Stefanie , Kleinschrodt Diana , Jaeger Karl-Erich , Smits Sander H. J. , Schmitt Lutz
Published: July 2015

Type 1 secretion systems (T1SS) of Gram-negative bacteria are responsible for the secretion of various proteases, lipases, S-layer proteins or toxins into the extracellular space. The paradigm of these systems is the hemolysin A (HlyA) T1SS of Escherichia coli. This multiple membrane protein complex is able to secrete the toxin HlyA in one step across both E. coli membranes. Common to all secreted T1SS substrates is a C-terminal secretion sequence being necessary as well as sufficient for secretion. However, it is not known whether transport occurs directionally, i.e. the N- or the C-terminus of T1SS substrates is secreted first. We have addressed this question by constructing HlyA fusions with the rapidly folding eGFP resulting in a stalled T1SS. Differential labeling and subsequent fluorescence microscopic detection of C- and N-terminal parts of the fusions allowed us to demonstrate vectorial transport of HlyA through the T1SS with the C-terminus appearing first outside the bacterial cells.
Self-assembly of mercaptoundecanol on cedar-like Au nanoparticle coated stainless steel fiber for selective solid-phase microextraction
Authors: Zhang Yida , Song Wenlan , Yang Yaoxia , Guo Mei , Wang Xuemei , Du Xinzhen
Published: July 2015

A novel organic–inorganic composite coated fiber was developed by direct chemical deposition of Au nanoparticles (AuNPs) followed by self-assembly of mercaptoundecanol using an etched stainless steel (ESS) wire as a supporting substrate for selective solid-phase microextraction (SPME).
Embedding lanthanide-functionalized polymers into hollow mesoporous silica spheres: a ship-in-a-bottle approach to luminescent hybrid materials
Authors: Yuan Ning , Liang Yucang , Erichsen Egil Severin , Anwander Reiner
Published: July 2015

Using hollow mesoporous silica spheres (HMSS) as host (“bottle”) and 4-vinylpyridine (4VP), Ln(iii) chlorides (Ln = Eu, Tb), and 1,10-phenanthroline (Phen) as “ship” components gives facile access to luminescent hybrid materials.
Porous palladium aminophosphates: synthesis, characterization, antimicrobial and cytotoxicity studies
Authors: Rajini Anumula , Adepu Ajay Kumar , Chirra Suman , Venkatathri Narayanan
Published: July 2015

Novel palladium aminophosphates have been synthesized at room temperature in solvent free condition. They are characterized in detail. Their antimicrobial and cytotoxicity studies were carried out.
Enhanced actuated strain of titanium dioxide/nitrile-butadiene rubber composite by the biomimetic method
Authors: Yang Dan , Huang Shuo , Wu Yibo , Ruan Mengnan , Li Shuxin , Shang Yuwei , Cui Xiuguo , Wang Yang , Guo Wenli
Published: July 2015

An excellent dielectric elastomer was fabricated by incorporating titanium dioxide nano-particles into nitrile-butadiene rubber by a simple dopamine biomimetic method.
Analysis of Genetic Diversity of Fusarium tupiense, the Main Causal Agent of Mango Malformation Disease in Southern Spain
Authors: Crespo M. , Cazorla F. M. , de Vicente A. , Arrebola E. , Torés J. A. , Maymon M. , Freeman S. , Aoki T. , O’Donnell K.
Published: July 2015

Mango malformation disease (MMD) has become an important global disease affecting this crop. The aim of this study was to identify the main causal agents of MMD in the Axarquía region of southern Spain and determine their genetic diversity. Fusarium mangiferae was previously described in the Axarquía region but it represented only one-third of the fusaria recovered from malformed trees. In the present work, fusaria associated with MMD were analyzed by arbitrary primed polymerase chain reaction (ap-PCR), random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD), vegetative compatibility grouping (VCG), a PCR screen for mating type idiomorph, and phylogenetic analyses of multilocus DNA sequence data to identify and characterize the genetic diversity of the MMD pathogens. These analyses confirmed that 92 of the isolates were F. tupiense, which was previously only known from Brazil and Senegal. In addition, two isolates of a putatively novel MMD pathogen were discovered, nested within the African clade of the Fusarium fujikuroi species complex. The F. tupiense isolates all belonged to VCG I, which was first described in Brazil, and the 11 isolates tested showed pathogenicity on mango seedlings. Including the prior discovery of F. mangiferae, three exotic MMD pathogenic species have been found in southern Spain, which suggests multiple independent introductions of MMD pathogens in the Axarquía region.
Virulence Variations of Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici Isolates Collected from Berberis spp. in China
Authors: Wang Zhiyan , Zhao Jie , Chen Xianming , Peng Yuelin , Ji Jingjing , Zhao Shilei , Lv Yanjie , Huang Lili , Kang Zhensheng
Published: July 2015

The stripe rust pathogen Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici frequently causes significant yield losses in China, due to rapid development of new races that overcome resistance in wheat cultivars. Indirect evidence suggests that sexual reproduction occurs in the P. striiformis f. sp. tritici population in China but direct evidence was still lacking. In this study, a large-scale survey of barberry (Berberis spp.) was conducted in Gansu, Shaanxi, Tibet, and Xinjiang provinces in western China. In total, 9,297 single-aecial (SA) samples were used to inoculate a susceptible wheat cultivar to identify samples of P. striiformis f. sp. tritici. Sixteen of the SA samples were identified as P. striiformis f. sp. tritici. When tested on the wheat differentials for identifying P. striiformis f. sp. tritici races, 15 of the 16 SA samples had different virulence patterns, indicating that they were sexually produced through barberry. From the 16 SA samples, 118 single-uredinium (SU) isolates were obtained, from which 88 virulence patterns were identified when tested on 17 Yr single-gene lines. The virulence patterns had relatively narrow virulence spectra, ranging from 0 to 9, with a mean of four virulences per SU isolates. Of the 17 Yr genes, no virulences were detected for Yr5, Yr10, and Yr15; virulences to YrTr1, Yr24, and Yr27 were extremely low (<3%); those to YrSP, Yr9, Yr28, and Yr2 were low (13.6 to 28.0%); those to Yr7, Yr17, Yr8, and YrExp2 were moderate (33.1 to 48.3%); and those to Yr6, Yr44, and Yr25 were high (52.5 to 72.9%). This study provides direct evidence that natural sexual reproduction occurs in the P. striiformis f. sp. tritici population in China, but the frequency appears to be very low. The sexual reproduction on alternate host plants can generate a great virulence diversity, which may have contributed to the high variation in the P. striiformis f. sp. tritici population in China.
Down Payment Saving in the United States: Evidence from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics
Authors: Yalta A. Talha
Published: July 2015

We present a model of household saving toward a mortgage loan under an exogenous down payment requirement and preference for owning over renting. Our model explains a set of empirical observations such as the dual effect in the form of some households, in response to higher down payments, becoming discouraged savers while those who do not abandon purchasing plans save more. We also employ instrumental variable‐based methods to investigate the down payment saving behavior of first‐time home buyers in the United States. The empirical results based on Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID) data support the inelastic down payment elasticity of saving implied by our model.
Classification of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma in South‐eastern Europe: review of 632 cases from the international non‐Hodgkin lymphoma classification project
Authors: Dotlic Snjezana , Perry Anamarija M. , Petrusevska Gordana , Fetica Bogdan , Diebold Jacques , MacLennan Kenneth A. , Müller‐Hermelink Hans K. , Nathwani Bharat N. , Boilesen Eugene , Bast Martin , Armitage James O. , Weisenburger Dennis D.
Published: July 2015

The distribution of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) subtypes varies around the world, but a systematic study of South‐eastern Europe (SEEU) has never been done. Therefore, we evaluated the relative frequencies of NHL subtypes in three SEEU countries – Croatia, Romania and Macedonia. Five expert haematopathologists reviewed 632 consecutive cases of newly diagnosed NHL from the three SEEU countries using the World Health Organization classification. The results were compared to 399 cases from North America (NA) and 580 cases from Western Europe (WEU). The proportions of B‐ and T‐cell NHL and the sex distribution in SEEU were similar to WEU and NA. However, the median ages of patients with low‐ and high‐grade B‐NHL in SEEU (60 and 59 years, respectively) were significantly lower than in NA (64 and 68 years, respectively; P < 0·05). SEEU had a significantly lower proportion of low‐grade B‐NHL (46·6%) and higher proportion of high‐grade B‐NHL (44·5%) compared to both WEU (54·5% and 36·4%, respectively) and NA (56·1% and 34·3%, respectively). There were no significant differences in the relative frequencies of T‐NHL subtypes. This study provides new insights into differences in the relative frequencies of NHL subtypes in different geographic regions. Epidemiological studies are needed to better characterize and explain these differences.
Improved Half Vector Space Light Transport
Authors: Hanika Johannes , Kaplanyan Anton , Dachsbacher Carsten
Published: July 2015

In this paper, we present improvements to half vector space light transport (HSLT) [KHD14], which make this approach more practical, robust for difficult input geometry, and faster. Our first contribution is the computation of half vector space ray differentials in a different domain than the original work. This enables a more uniform stratification over the image plane during Markov chain exploration. Furthermore, we introduce a new multi chain perturbation in half vector space, which, if combined appropriately with half vector perturbation, makes the mutation strategy both more robust to geometric configurations with fine displacements and faster due to reduced number of ray casts. We provide and analyze the results of improved HSLT and discuss possible applications of our new half vector ray differentials.
Invasion potential of Agrilus planipennis and other Agrilus beetles in Europe: import pathways of deciduous wood chips and MaxEnt analyses of potential distribution areas
Authors: Flø D. , Krokene P. , Økland B.
Published: July 2015

Bark‐ and wood‐boring beetles in the genus Agrilus (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) can survive wood‐chipping, and Agrilus planipennis has established in North America and European Russia with devastating impacts on forest ecosystems. The work presented in this paper combined import statistics of deciduous wood chips, Maximum entropy modelling (MaxEnt) of climatic similarities, and the distribution of potential tree hosts to predict the likelihood of four selected North American Agrilus species to become introduced and established in Europe. In agreement with the EU's energy‐policy target of increased use of wood chips, there was a linear or exponential increase in European imports of deciduous wood chips during the past 10 years from countries harbouring potentially harmful Agrilus species. MaxEnt showed high environmental suitability in Europe for the four selected Agrilus species, particularly in Eastern Europe and European Russia for A. anxius, A. bilineatus and A. planipennis and in southern Europe for A. politus. Documented susceptible host trees are widely distributed in the predicted areas of Agrilus distribution in Europe, and these areas receive large quantities of deciduous wood chips from countries where these and other Agrilus species are present. Thus, it was concluded that the fundamental conditions for introduction and establishment of Agrilus species in Europe are in place.
Allergenic Can f 1 and its human homologue Lcn‐1 direct dendritic cells to induce divergent immune responses
Authors: Posch Beate , Irsara Christian , Gamper Fabian S. , Herrmann Martin , Bindreither Daniel , Fuchs Dietmar , Reider Norbert , Redl Bernhard , Heufler Christine
Published: July 2015

Why and when the immune system skews to Th2 mediated allergic immune responses is still poorly characterized. With two homologous lipocalins, the major respiratory dog allergen Can f 1 and the human endogenous, non‐allergenic Lipocalin‐1, we investigated their impact on human monocyte‐derived dendritic cells (DC). The two lipocalins had differential effects on DC according to their allergenic potential. Compared to Lipocalin‐1, Can f 1 persistently induced lower levels of the Th1 skewing maturation marker expression, tryptophan breakdown and interleukin (IL)‐12 production in DC. As a consequence, T cells stimulated by DC treated with Can f 1 produced more of the Th2 signature cytokine IL‐13 and lower levels of the Th1 signature cytokine interferon‐γ than T cells stimulated by Lipocalin‐1 treated DC. These data were partially verified by a second pair of homologous lipocalins, the cat allergen Fel d 4 and its putative human homologue major urinary protein. Our data indicate that the crosstalk of DC with lipocalins alone has the potential to direct the type of immune response to these particular antigens. A global gene expression analysis further supported these results and indicated significant differences in intracellular trafficking, sorting and antigen presentation pathways when comparing Can f 1 and Lipocalin‐1 stimulated DC. With this study we contribute to a better understanding of the induction phase of a Th2 immune response.
Anti‐NeuGcGM3 reactivity: a possible role of natural antibodies and B‐1 cells in tumor immunosurveillance
Authors: Rodriguez‐Zhurbenko Nely , Rabade‐Chediak Maura , Martinez Darel , Griñan Tania , Hernandez Ana Maria
Published: July 2015

While not naturally expressed in normal human tissues, N‐glycolylated (NeuGc) gangliosides are overexpressed in several tumors and have immunosuppressive capacity, which contributes to cancer progression. Naturally occurring antibodies against NeuGcGM3 exist in healthy donors that specifically recognize and kill tumor cells expressing the antigen by complement‐dependent and ‐independent mechanisms, the latter resembling an oncotic necrosis–type of cell death. Both the levels of anti‐NeuGcGM3 antibodies in the sera of healthy donors and the percentage of donors with these natural antibodies decrease with age. Our work has shown that anti‐NeuGcGM3 antibodies are not detected in the sera of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, compared to age‐ and sex‐matched healthy donors, which have anti‐NeuGcGM3. Interestingly, the level of serum total IgM, but not IgG, was significantly lower in cancer patients than in healthy donors. Screening of immortalized mouse splenic and peritoneal‐derived hybridomas showed that peritoneal B‐1 cells secrete anti‐NeuGcGM3 with tumor cytotoxic capacity. Defects in the natural surveillance against tumor antigens could increase the risk of elderly donors developing cancer and affect the capacity of cancer patients to effectively fight against tumor cells.
Asymmetry of Cerebral Hemodynamic Response to Incremental Cycling Exercise
Authors: Stone Mark R. , Gibson Alan St Clair , Thompson Kevin G.
Published: July 2015

Purpose:

Exercise is known to result in hemodynamic changes in the bilateral prefrontal cortex. The aim of this study was to investigate hemodynamic changes in right and left hemispheres of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) during incremental cycling exercise.

Methods:

After 10 min rest, 9 participants (mean age 26.6 ± 2.5 y, mass 77.5 ± 9.7 kg, stature 1.79 ± 0.9 m) cycled at 100–150 W for 4 min. Thereafter, resistance was increased by 25 W every 4 min until exhaustion (EXH). Respiratory exchange and concentrations of oxy- ([HbO2]), deoxy- ([(HHb]), and total hemoglobin ([Hbtot]) in the PFC were continuously measured. Data were averaged for 60 s at rest and preceding ventilatory threshold 1 (VT1), VT2, and volitional EXH and after 5 min recovery. Subjective ratings of affect were measured at VT1, VT2, VT1 minus 25 W (VT1-25W), and VT2 plus 25 W (VT2+25W).

Results:

There were no between-hemispheres differences in [HbO2] or [Hbtot] at rest, VT1, or recovery or in [HHb] at any point. Right-hemisphere [HbO2] and [Hbtot] were significantly greater than left at VT2 (P = .01 and P = .02) and EXH (P = .03 and P = .02). Affect was significantly greater at VT1-25W vs VT2 and VT2+25W and at VT1 and VT2 vs VT2+25W (P < .01–.03).

Conclusions:

To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to describe an exercise-state-dependent change in PFC asymmetry during incremental exercise. The asymmetry detected coincided with a decrease in affect scores in agreement with the PFC-asymmetry hypothesis.
A Novel Metamaterial MIMO Antenna with High Isolation for WLAN Applications
Authors: Kiem Nguyen Khac , Phuong Huynh Nguyen Bao , Hieu Quang Ngoc , Chien Dao Ngoc
Published: July 2015

A compact2×2metamaterial-MIMO antenna for WLAN applications is presented in this paper. The MIMO antenna is designed by placing side by side two single metamaterial antennas which are constructed based on the modified composite right/left-handed (CRLH) model. By adding another left-handed inductor, the total left-handed inductor of the modified CRLH model is increased remarkably in comparison with that of conventional CRLH model. As a result, the proposed metamaterial antenna achieves 60% size reduction in comparison with the unloaded antenna. The MIMO antenna is electrically small (30 mm × 44 mm) with an edge-to-edge separation between two antennas of0.06λ0at 2.4 GHz. In order to reduce the mutual coupling of the antenna, a defected ground structure (DGS) is inserted to suppress the effect of surface current between elements of the proposed antenna. The final design of the MIMO antenna satisfies the return loss requirement of less than −10 dB in a bandwidth ranging from 2.38 GHz to 2.5 GHz, which entirely covers WLAN frequency band allocated from 2.4 GHz to 2.48 GHz. The antenna also shows a high isolation coefficient which is less than −35 dB over the operating frequency band. A good agreement between simulation and measurement is shown in this context.