bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fenitrothion, an organophosphorous insecticide, impairs locomotory function and alters body temperatures in Sminthopsis macroura (Gould 1845) without reducing metabolic rates during running endurance and thermogenic performance tests
Authors: Story Paul G. , French Kris , Astheimer Lee B. , Buttemer William A.
Published: July 2015

Endemic Australian mammal species are exposed to pesticides used for locust control as they occupy the same habitat as the target insect. The authors examined the impact of an ultra-low volume formulation of the organophosphorous insecticide fenitrothion (O,O-dimethyl-O-[3-methyl-4-nitrophenol]-phosphorothioate) on a suite of physiological measures that affect the ability of animals to survive in free-living conditions: locomotory and thermogenic functions, metabolic performance, body mass, and hematocrit and hemoglobin levels. Plasma and brain cholinesterase activity in relation to time since exposure to pesticide were also determined. An orally applied dose of 90 mg kg−1 fenitrothion reduced running endurance in the stripe-faced dunnart, Sminthopsis macroura, by 80% the day after exposure concomitantly with a reduction of approximately 50% in plasma and 45% in brain acetylcholinesterase activity. These adverse effects disappeared by 10 d postexposure. Maximal metabolic rates reached during running were unaffected by pesticide, as were body mass and hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. Maximal cold-induced metabolic rate (measured as peak 2 min metabolic rate attained during cold exposure), time taken to reach peak metabolic rate on cold exposure, cumulative total oxygen consumed during shivering thermogenesis, and body temperature before and after cold exposure were unaffected by fenitrothion. Dunnart rectal temperatures showed a reduction of up to 5 °C after exposure to fenitrothion but returned to pre-exposure levels by 10 d postdose. Such physiological compromises in otherwise asymptomatic animals demonstrate the importance of considering performance-based measures in pesticide risk assessments. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:152–162. © 2015 SETAC
Effects of the herbicide dicamba on nontarget plants and pollinator visitation
Authors: Bohnenblust Eric W. , Vaudo Anthony D. , Egan J. Franklin , Mortensen David A. , Tooker John F.
Published: July 2015

Nearly 80% of all pesticides applied to row crops are herbicides, and these applications pose potentially significant ecotoxicological risks to nontarget plants and associated pollinators. In response to the widespread occurrence of weed species resistant to glyphosate, biotechnology companies have developed crops resistant to the synthetic-auxin herbicides dicamba and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D); and once commercialized, adoption of these crops is likely to change herbicide-use patterns. Despite current limited use, dicamba and 2,4-D are often responsible for injury to nontarget plants; but effects of these herbicides on insect communities are poorly understood. To understand the influence of dicamba on pollinators, the authors applied several sublethal, drift-level rates of dicamba to alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) and Eupatorium perfoliatum L. and evaluated plant flowering and floral visitation by pollinators. The authors found that dicamba doses simulating particle drift (≈1% of the field application rate) delayed onset of flowering and reduced the number of flowers of each plant species; however, plants that did flower produced similar-quality pollen in terms of protein concentrations. Further, plants affected by particle drift rates were visited less often by pollinators. Because plants exposed to sublethal levels of dicamba may produce fewer floral resources and be less frequently visited by pollinators, use of dicamba or other synthetic-auxin herbicides with widespread planting of herbicide-resistant crops will need to be carefully stewarded to prevent potential disturbances of plant and beneficial insect communities in agricultural landscapes. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:144–151. © 2015 SETAC
Stepped Care and Rehabilitation for Patients Recovering From Borderline Personality Disorder
Authors: Paris Joel
Published: July 2015

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) has a reputation as a clinical challenge. However, although BPD presents difficulties in acute phases, most patients recover over time, and most will respond to psychotherapy. Even so, BPD patients, even in remission, can suffer from residual dysfunction in work and relationships. These problems can benefit from further treatment, using a model in which patients retain access to treatment but are seen intermittently. This article describes a stepped care model for treatment and rehabilitation in the chronic phases of the disorder.
Electricity generation, ethanol fermentation and enhanced glucose degradation in a bio‐electro‐Fenton system driven by a microbial fuel cell
Authors: Birjandi Noshin , Younesi Habibollah , Ghoreyshi Ali Asghar , Rahimnejad Mostafa
Published: July 2015

BACKGROUND

In the present study, the performance of ethanol fermentation by Saccharomyces cerevisiae and glucose degradation in a bio‐electro‐Fenton (BEF) system was investigated. This system contained a dual‐chamber microbial fuel cell (MFC) with Nafion® membrane as a separator and is equipped with an Fe@Fe2O3/graphite electrode. The performance of MFCs under different operational conditions was evaluated in terms of glucose removal, ethanol production and electrical power output.

RESULTS

The maximum ethanol production in an anaerobic condition was 11.52 g L−1. The glucose removal was 34.15 and 68.81% and the measured maximum power densities were 13.51 and 30.46 mW m−2 with graphite and Fe@Fe2O3/graphite systems, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The energy production, glucose degradation and fermentation process for ethanol production from glucose by S. cerevisiae was successfully carried out in a BEF system. This study demonstrates that the BEF system, without the requirement for an external electrical energy supply and any addition of H2O2, is an effective and economical system for wastewater treatment. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Expression of growth differentiation factor 6 in the human developing fetal spine retreats from vertebral ossifying regions and is restricted to cartilaginous tissues
Authors: Wei Aiqun , Shen Bojiang , Williams Lisa A. , Bhargav Divya , Gulati Twishi , Fang Zhimin , Pathmanandavel Sarennya , Diwan Ashish D.
Published: July 2015

During embryogenesis vertebral segmentation is initiated by sclerotomal cell migration and condensation around the notochord, forming anlagen of vertebral bodies and intervertebral discs. The factors that govern the segmentation are not clear. Previous research demonstrated that mutations in growth differentiation factor 6 resulted in congenital vertebral fusion, suggesting this factor plays a role in development of vertebral column. In this study, we detected expression and localization of growth differentiation factor 6 in human fetal spinal column, especially in the period of early ossification of vertebrae and the developing intervertebral discs. The extracellular matrix proteins were also examined. Results showed that high levels of growth differentiation factor 6 were expressed in the nucleus pulposus of intervertebral discs and the hypertrophic chondrocytes adjacent to the ossification centre in vertebral bodies, where strong expression of proteoglycan and collagens was also detected. As fetal age increased, the expression of growth differentiation factor 6 was decreased correspondingly with the progress of ossification in vertebral bodies and restricted to cartilaginous regions. This expression pattern and the genetic link to vertebral fusion suggest that growth differentiation factor 6 may play an important role in suppression of ossification to ensure proper vertebral segmentation during spinal development. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:279–289, 2016.
Reversing the established order: Should adrenal venous sampling precede cross‐sectional imaging in the evaluation of primary aldosteronism?
Authors: Asmar Melissa , Wachtel Heather , Yan Yan , Fraker Douglas L. , Cohen Debbie , Trerotola Scott O.
Published: July 2015

Background

Adrenal venous sampling (AVS) is the definitive evaluation for primary aldosteronism (PA). Pre‐AVS cross‐sectional imaging does not reduce the need for AVS. The goal of this study was to examine whether performing AVS prior to imaging could decrease the use of imaging in the evaluation of PA at a high volume, experienced center.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of all AVS procedures (n = 337) done for PA from 2001–2013. Patients whose cross‐sectional imaging reports were unavailable (n = 90) or AVS was non‐diagnostic (n = 12) were excluded. AVS was performed using modified Mayo technique. Univariate analysis utilized the χ2 test and fisher's exact test.

Results

Of the 235 patients analyzed, 63% (n = 148) were male. The mean age was 55 ± 11 years. AVS was non‐lateralizing in 43% (n = 101); these patients might have avoided imaging with an AVS‐first approach. Imaging and AVS were concordant in 52% (n = 123). In patients ≤40yo (n = 23), 35% (n = 8) had no lateralization on AVS, and might have avoided imaging in an AVS‐first approach. Imaging and AVS were concordant in 52% (n = 12) of patients ≤40yo, versus 52% (n = 111) of patients >40yo (P = 0.987).

Conclusion

An AVS‐first, imaging‐second approach could have avoided CT/MRI in 43% of patients. At a high volume, experienced center, performing AVS first on patients with PA may reduce unnecessary cross‐sectional imaging studies. J. Surg. Oncol. 2015 111:144–148. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sexual Trauma and Combat During Deployment: Associations With Suicidal Ideation Among OEF/OIF/OND Veterans
Authors: Monteith Lindsey L. , Menefee Deleene S. , Forster Jeri E. , Wanner Jill L. , Bahraini Nazanin H.
Published: July 2015

Compelling evidence has emerged on the association between military sexual trauma and suicide attempt; however, research investigating how sexual trauma during deployment relates to suicidal ideation has received considerably less attention and has yielded mixed findings. Furthermore, such research has not accounted for other types of trauma that may occur during deployment. Our objectives were to examine whether sexual trauma during deployment was associated with recent suicidal ideation, adjusting for exposure to combat. Our sample included 199 Operation Enduring Freedom/Iraqi Freedom/New Dawn (OEF/OIF/OND) veterans entering inpatient trauma‐focused treatment who completed the Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation (Beck & Steer, 1991) and the Deployment Risk and Resilience Inventory Sexual Harassment and Combat Experiences Scales (King, King, Vogt, Knight, & Samper, 2006). Deployment‐related sexual trauma was significantly associated with recent suicidal ideation, adjusting for age and gender (β = .18, ηp2 = .03) and additionally for combat (β = .17, ηp2 = .02). These findings underscore the importance of assessing for deployment‐related sexual trauma when assessing suicide risk in OEF/OIF/OND veterans in inpatient settings.
Twelve‐months prevalence of mental disorders in the German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Adults – Mental Health Module (DEGS1‐MH): a methodological addendum and correction
Authors: Jacobi Frank , Höfler Michael , Strehle Jens , Mack Simon , Gerschler Anja , Scholl Lucie , Busch Markus A. , Hapke Ulfert , Maske Ulrike , Seiffert Ingeburg , Gaebel Wolfgang , Maier Wolfgang , Wagner Michael , Zielasek Jürgen , Wittchen Hans‐Ulrich
Published: July 2015

We recently published findings in this journal on the prevalence of mental disorders from the German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Adults Mental Health Module (DEGS1‐MH). The DEGS1‐MH paper was also meant to be the major reference publication for this large‐scale German study program, allowing future users of the data set to understand how the study was conducted and analyzed. Thus, towards this goal highest standards regarding transparency, consistency and reproducibility should be applied. After publication, unfortunately, the need for an addendum and corrigendum became apparent due to changes in the eligible reference sample, and corresponding corrections of the imputed data. As a consequence the sample description, sample size and some prevalence data needed amendments. Additionally we identified a coding error in the algorithm for major depression that had a significant effect on the prevalence estimates of depression and associated conditions. This addendum and corrigendum highlights all changes and presents the corrected prevalence tables. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Banana/sisal fibers reinforced poly(lactic acid) hybrid biocomposites; influence of chemical modification of BSF towards thermal properties
Authors: Asaithambi Balakrishnan , Ganesan Gowri Shankar , Ananda Kumar Srinivasan
Published: July 2015

The present work focused on thermal behavior of biocomposites based on poly(lactic acid) (PLA) reinforced with untreated and benzoyl peroxide (BP) treated banana/sisal fibers (BSF) combination. Fabrication of biocomposites was performed by extrusion followed by injection molding. Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) spectral technique ascertained the nature of bonding between BSF and PLA. The thermal properties of virgin PLA, UT‐BSF/PLA, and BP‐T‐BSF/PLA composites were studied by DSC and TGA analysis. DSC analysis indicated no significant changes in the glass transition temperature (Tg) and melting temperature (Tm) of virgin PLA, UT‐BSF/PLA, and BP‐T‐BSF/PLA composites and no sign of crystallization for both virgin PLA, UT‐BSF/PLA composites. However, crystallization was observed in BP‐T‐BSF/PLA composites. The BP‐T‐BSF/PLA composite exhibited a delayed thermal degradation pattern from TGA analysis when compared to that of UT‐BSF/PLA composites and virgin PLA as well. Further, the effect of BSF treatment and hybridization of BSF with PLA on the degree of crystallinity (Xc) were explored in detail. The above said composites were also investigated through scanning electron microscope (SEM) micrographs to examine the adhesion between the PLA and BSF. In addition, the results of SEM acquired are in good agreement with the data resulted from FTIR and thermal characterization. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:1053–1062, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Impact of electrospinning process parameters on the measured current and fiber diameter
Authors: Sarabi‐Mianeji Siavash , Scott Jennifer , Pagé Danny J.Y.S.
Published: July 2015

In this article, polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofibres were processed by electrospinning using a 3:1 ratio of tetrahydrofuran to methanol as solvent. The solvent choice was motivated by the possibility of greener alternatives to the halogenated compounds most often used for electrospinning. The morphologies and fiber diameters resulting from the electrospinning of PCL solutions at room temperature under various conditions are presented in this article. The material morphology was characterized using scanning electron microscopy and a measuring software. The process was optimized for smaller fibers with a narrower fiber diameter distribution by studying parameters such as polymer concentration, applied voltage, the tip to collector distance (TCD), and the solution flow rate. A comparison analysis was used to separate the current resulting from whipping and that resulting from spraying at high voltage. The fiber diameters obtained under various processing conditions were effectively modeled using the terminal jet theory, referenced in several works. Process parameters were optimal for a 20% PCL concentration spun at a flow rate of 0.5 mL/h, with a TCD of 15 cm and an applied voltage of 8 kV. Fibers spun under these conditions displayed diameters of 546 ± 173 nm. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 55:2576–2582, 2015. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
In situ preparation of CdS/PVA nanocomposites using gamma radiation
Authors: Ali Zakaria I. , Ebraheem Omayma , Saleh Hoda H. , Salam Fatma H. Abd , Sokary Rehab
Published: July 2015

Films of poly(vinyl alcohol)/cadmium sulphide (PVA/CdS) nanocomposite containing various concentrations of Cd2+ ions were prepared using gamma radiation at different doses from 50 up to 200 kGy. The UV/VIS spectra revealed that the CdS/PVA nanocomposites showed blue shift for the absorption peak as compared with bulk CdS. As the irradiation dose increased, a gradual red shift in the wavelength accompanying with broadening of the absorption peak was observed. The estimated optical band gap energies and the calculated CdS particle sizes of (PVA/CdS) showed correlation between their values and the variable parameters (irradiation dose and Cd+2:S−2 molar ratio). Transmission electron microscopy images showed that the CdS/PVA nanocomposites were dispersed as spherical CdS nanoparticles with homogeneity at either lower concentration of CdCl2 or irradiation dose. The nano‐rod structures of CdS was accompanied with small agglomeration at either higher CdCl2 concentration or irradiation dose. A cubic phase and mixture of cubic and hexagonal phases of the prepared CdS nanoparticles were formed at lower and higher CdCl2 concentrations, respectively. Fourier Transform Infrared spectra confirmed the coordination of CdS nanoparticles with the hydroxyl groups of PVA matrix. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 55:2583–2590, 2015. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
A parametrization of subgrid orographic rain enhancement via the seeder–feeder effect
Authors: Smith S. A. , Field P. R. , Vosper S. B. , Shipway B. J. , Hill A. A.
Published: July 2015

Numerical models used for low‐resolution weather and climate simulations are unable to produce enough orographic rain enhancement via the seeder–feeder effect during the passage of frontal systems when the orography is not sufficiently well represented. This article describes the development of a simple parametrization scheme to remedy this problem. The scheme estimates the increase in the grid‐box mean cloud liquid‐water mixing ratio that would result from vertical displacements produced by unresolved hills, accounting for regions where the actual surface is both higher and lower than the model surface. Using idealized two‐dimensional simulations of neutrally stratified flow over a Gaussian‐shaped ridge resolved to varying degrees, the new scheme was shown to increase the total (resolved plus parametrized) orographic water towards that produced over a well‐resolved hill, with good agreement for a wide range of hill sizes. This subgrid orographic water can be used by a microphysics parametrization scheme to enhance the growth of rain (or snow) via accretion. In simulations with a constant rain rate into the top of the domain, the surface orographic rain rate was increased over a small completely subgrid hill by up to 90%, giving much better agreement with the simulations over a well‐resolved hill. The scheme also increases the rain produced by flow over large subgrid mountains if the resolved cloud is able to produce some rain via autoconversion.
Simultaneous estimation of parameters in the bivariate Emax model
Authors: Magnusdottir Bergrun T. , Nyquist Hans
Published: July 2015

In this paper, we explore inference in multi‐response, nonlinear models. By multi‐response, we mean models with m > 1 response variables and accordingly m relations. Each parameter/explanatory variable may appear in one or more of the relations. We study a system estimation approach for simultaneous computation and inference of the model and (co)variance parameters. For illustration, we fit a bivariate Emax model to diabetes dose‐response data. Further, the bivariate Emax model is used in a simulation study that compares the system estimation approach to equation‐by‐equation estimation. We conclude that overall, the system estimation approach performs better for the bivariate Emax model when there are dependencies among relations. The stronger the dependencies, the more we gain in precision by using system estimation rather than equation‐by‐equation estimation. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Shaking table test and numerical analysis of a high‐rise building with steel reinforce concrete column and reinforce concrete core tube
Authors: Lu Xilin , Zhou Bin , Zhao Bin , Lu Wensheng
Published: July 2015

This paper assesses the seismic performance of a high‐rise building with steel reinforce concrete column and reinforce concrete core tube in Shanghai, China. This building has 54 floors above the ground and 4 basements, and it has two strengthened layers, which are composed of outrigger truss and belt truss. In order to validate the reliability and the safety of this structure, besides the conventional analysis, shaking table test of scale model was conducted. In the test, the maximum responses of acceleration and deformation were measured and evaluated, as well as the dynamic characteristics, crack pattern, and failure mechanism of the building. Meanwhile, elastic‐plastic time‐history analysis for prototype structure was carried out by the finite element analysis program, and the experimental data were compared with the analytical results to gain a better understanding of the seismic performance of the building.

The conclusions are summarized below:

Shaking table test of scale model is an effective method to understand the failure mechanisms and seismic performance of high‐rise building with steel reinforce concrete (SRC) column and reinforce concrete core tube.

To high‐rise building, a whipping effect is remarkable. The stiffness and ductility of the stories closed to the roof should be paid more attention.

In the strengthened layers, the outrigger truss and the belt truss are the main structures to resist a large part of seismic action. The stiffness of the stories between the strengthened layers is mutated, and the focus phenomenon of shear force on these stories is obviously serious.

The lateral stiffness ratio of core tube to SRC columns should not be large. Well controlling of the size of these lateral resistance members can make them to give fully play to seismic capacity.

Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Efficiency Records in Mesoscopic Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Albero Josep , Atienzar Pedro , Corma Avelino , Garcia Hermenegildo
Published: July 2015

The aim of the present review article is to show the progress achieved in the efficiency of dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) by evolution in the structure and composition of the dye. After an initial brief description of DSSCs and the operating mechanism the major part of the present article is organized according to the type of dye, trying to show the logic in the variation of the dye structure in order to achieve strong binding on the surface of the layer of nanoparticulate TiO2, efficient interfacial electron injection between the excited dye and the semiconductor, and minimization of the unwanted dark current processes. Besides metal complexes, including polypyridyls and nitrogenated macro rings, organic dyes and inorganic light harvesters such as quantum dots and perovskites have also been included in the review. The last section summarizes the current state of the art and provides an overview on future developments in the field.
Enhancement of poly(vinyl chloride) productivity by continuous initiator injection
Authors: Momenizadeh‐Shalamzary Y. , Nasr Esfahany M.
Published: July 2015

Polymerization of vinyl chloride monomer with continuous initiator dosage at constant temperature was modeled. Initiators with a half‐life shorter than 0.4 hour at the reaction temperature are suitable for continuous injection. Using a suitable initiator dosage regime, it is possible to keep the reaction rate at its maximum permissible value until critical conversion. It is found that a suitable dosage regime allows the total polymerization time to be reduced by as much as 38.6%, while the final conversion remains unchanged from standard isothermal polymerization. Also, addition of initiators with a half‐life greater than 0.47 hour, preferably from 0.47 hour to the time needed to reach the critical conversion, at the polymerization temperature at the beginning of the reaction are required to achieve a high conversion. The injection of initiators during polymerization into the reactor causes the weight‐averaged molecular weight and corresponding K value of the product to decrease. The drop in K value can be compensated by a decrease in reaction temperature. Initiator dosage shows no significant effect on the structural chemical defects in the PVC chains. Dispersibility and persistent gels (fisheyes) were not measured. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 23:248–258, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Batch production of coenzyme Q10 by recombinant Escherichia coli containing the decaprenyl diphosphate synthase gene from Sphingomonas baekryungensis
Authors: Martínez Irene , Méndez Claudia , Berríos Julio , Altamirano Claudia , Díaz-Barrera Alvaro
Published: July 2015

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an important antioxidant used in medicine, dietary supplements, and cosmetic applications. In the present work, the production of CoQ10 using a recombinant Escherichia coli strain containing the decaprenyl diphosphate synthase from Sphingomonas baekryungensis was investigated, wherein the effects of culture medium, temperature, and agitation rate on the production process were assessed. It was found that Luria–Bertani (LB) medium was superior to M9 with glucose medium. Higher temperature (37 °C) and higher agitation rate (900 rpm) improved the specific CoQ10 content significantly in LB medium; on the contrary, the use of M9 medium with glucose showed similar values. Specifically, in LB medium, an increase from 300 to 900 rpm in the agitation rate resulted in increases of 55 and 197 % in the specific CoQ10 content and COQ10 productivity, respectively. Therefore, the results obtained in the present work are a valuable contribution for the optimization of CoQ10 production processes using recombinant E. coli strains.
STEMI time delays: a clinical perspective
Authors: de Boer M-J. , Zijlstra F.
Published: July 2015

STEMI time delays have been introduced as a performance indicator or marker of quality of care. As they are only one part of a very complex medical process, one should be aware of concomitant issues that may be overlooked or even be more important with regard to clinical outcome of STEMI patients. In this overview we try to summarise the most important ones.
Perspective: The Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative and the role and contributions of the Private Partner Scientific Board (PPSB)
Authors: Liu Enchi , Luthman Johan , Cedarbaum Jesse M. , Schmidt Mark E. , Cole Patricia E. , Hendrix James , Carrillo Maria C. , Jones‐Davis Dorothy , Tarver Erika , Novak Gerald , De Santi Susan , Soares Holly D. , Potter William Z. , Siemers Eric , Schwarz Adam J.
Published: July 2015

The Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) Private Partner Scientific Board (PPSB) is comprised of representatives of private, for‐profit entities (including pharmaceutical, biotechnology, diagnostics, imaging companies, and imaging contract research organizations), and nonprofit organizations that provide financial and scientific support to ADNI through the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health. The PPSB serves as an independent, open, and precompetitive forum in which all private sector and not‐for‐profit partners in ADNI can collaborate, share information, and offer scientific and private‐sector perspectives and expertise on issues relating to the ADNI project. In this article, we review and highlight the role, activities, and contributions of the PPSB within the ADNI project, and provide a perspective on remaining unmet needs and future directions.
The Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative informatics core: A decade in review
Authors: Toga Arthur W. , Crawford Karen L.
Published: July 2015

The Informatics Core of the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative has coordinated data integration and dissemination for a continually growing and complex data set in which both data contributors and recipients span institutions, scientific disciplines, and geographic boundaries. This article provides an update on the accomplishments and future plans.
Impact of the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative, 2004 to 2014
Authors: Weiner Michael W. , Veitch Dallas P. , Aisen Paul S. , Beckett Laurel A. , Cairns Nigel J. , Cedarbaum Jesse , Donohue Michael C. , Green Robert C. , Harvey Danielle , Jack Clifford R. , Jagust William , Morris John C. , Petersen Ronald C. , Saykin Andrew J. , Shaw Leslie , Thompson Paul M. , Toga Arthur W. , Trojanowski John Q. ,   Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: July 2015

Introduction

The Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) was established in 2004 to facilitate the development of effective treatments for Alzheimer's disease (AD) by validating biomarkers for AD clinical trials.

Methods

We searched for ADNI publications using established methods.

Results

ADNI has (1) developed standardized biomarkers for use in clinical trial subject selection and as surrogate outcome measures; (2) standardized protocols for use across multiple centers; (3) initiated worldwide ADNI; (4) inspired initiatives investigating traumatic brain injury and post‐traumatic stress disorder in military populations, and depression, respectively, as an AD risk factor; (5) acted as a data‐sharing model; (6) generated data used in over 600 publications, leading to the identification of novel AD risk alleles, and an understanding of the relationship between biomarkers and AD progression; and (7) inspired other public‐private partnerships developing biomarkers for Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis.

Discussion

ADNI has made myriad impacts in its first decade. A competitive renewal of the project in 2015 would see the use of newly developed tau imaging ligands, and the continued development of recruitment strategies and outcome measures for clinical trials.
The Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative 2 PET Core: 2015
Authors: Jagust William J. , Landau Susan M. , Koeppe Robert A. , Reiman Eric M. , Chen Kewei , Mathis Chester A. , Price Julie C. , Foster Norman L. , Wang Angela Y.
Published: July 2015

Introduction

This article reviews the work done in the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative positron emission tomography (ADNI PET) core over the past 5 years, largely concerning techniques, methods, and results related to amyloid imaging in ADNI.

Methods

The PET Core has used [18F]florbetapir routinely on ADNI participants, with over 1600 scans available for download. Four different laboratories are involved in data analysis, and have examined factors such as longitudinal florbetapir analysis, use of [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)‐PET in clinical trials, and relationships between different biomarkers and cognition.

Results

Converging evidence from the PET Core has indicated that cross‐sectional and longitudinal florbetapir analyses require different reference regions. Studies have also examined the relationship between florbetapir data obtained immediately after injection, which reflects perfusion, and FDG‐PET results. Finally, standardization has included the translation of florbetapir PET data to a centiloid scale.

Conclusion

The PET Core has demonstrated a variety of methods for the standardization of biomarkers such as florbetapir PET in a multicenter setting.
The Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative 2 Biomarker Core: A review of progress and plans
Authors: Kang Ju‐Hee , Korecka Magdalena , Figurski Michal J. , Toledo Jon B. , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Waligorska Teresa , Brylska Magdalena , Fields Leona , Shah Nirali , Soares Holly , Dean Robert A. , Vanderstichele Hugo , Petersen Ronald C. , Aisen Paul S. , Saykin Andrew J. , Weiner Michael W. , Trojanowski John Q. , Shaw Leslie M. ,   Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: July 2015

Introduction

We describe Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) Biomarker Core progress including: the Biobank; cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) amyloid beta (Aβ1–42), t‐tau, and p‐tau181 analytical performance, definition of Alzheimer's disease (AD) profile for plaque, and tangle burden detection and increased risk for progression to AD; AD disease heterogeneity; progress in standardization; and new studies using ADNI biofluids.

Methods

Review publications authored or coauthored by ADNI Biomarker core faculty and selected non‐ADNI studies to deepen the understanding and interpretation of CSF Aβ1–42, t‐tau, and p‐tau181 data.

Results

CSF AD biomarker measurements with the qualified AlzBio3 immunoassay detects neuropathologic AD hallmarks in preclinical and prodromal disease stages, based on CSF studies in non‐ADNI living subjects followed by the autopsy confirmation of AD. Collaboration across ADNI cores generated the temporal ordering model of AD biomarkers varying across individuals because of genetic/environmental factors that increase/decrease resilience to AD pathologies.

Discussion

Further studies will refine this model and enable the use of biomarkers studied in ADNI clinically and in disease‐modifying therapeutic trials.
The impact of the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative 2: What role do public‐private partnerships have in pushing the boundaries of clinical and basic science research on Alzheimer's disease?
Authors: Jones‐Davis Dorothy M. , Buckholtz Neil
Published: July 2015

In the growing landscape of biomedical public‐private‐partnerships, particularly for Alzheimer's disease, the question is posed as to their value. What impacts do public‐private‐partnerships have on clinical and basic science research in Alzheimer's disease? The authors answer the question using the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) as a test case and example. ADNI is an exemplar of how public‐private‐partnerships can make an impact not only on clinical and basic science research and practice (including clinical trials), but also of how similar partnerships using ADNI as an example, can be designed to create a maximal impact within their fields.
Fostering Together–The Why and How of Involving and Supporting Biological Children of Foster Carers
Authors: Targowska Anna , Cavazzi Tara , Lund Stephan
Published: July 2015

This article discusses the outcomes of a research project undertaken in 2011/2013 by a team of researchers from Edith Cowan University (ECU) in collaboration with Wanslea Family Services. The project aimed to address the relative lack of voice of biological children in the fostering task, despite the increasing acknowledgement of children's rights and their capability to be involved in decision-making processes. Data was collected through the use of focus groups and interviews with a small number of biological children, foster carers and service providers in Western Australia (WA). The data indicated the necessity to reconsider the rights of biological children in the fostering task and the need for specific strategies to address these rights. The findings of the study informed the development of a set of interactive resources for supporting biological children of foster carers during all stages of the fostering process in Australia. The resources also have potential value for use in overseas jurisdictions.
A study on low emittance injector and undulator for PAL-XFEL
Authors: Hong J. , Han J.-H. , Park S.J. , Jung Y.G. , Kim D.E. , Kang H.-S. , Pflueger J.
Published: July 2015

For the success of PAL-XFEL, two critical systems, namely a low emittance injector and a variable gap out-vacuum undulator, are under development. In order to realize the target emittance of the PAL-XFEL injector we carried out an optimization study of various parameters, such as the laser beam transverse profile, the laser pulse length, the laser phase, and the gun energy. The transverse emittance measured at the Injector Test Facility (ITF) is

${\it\varepsilon}_{x}=0.48\pm 0.01~\text{mm}~\text{mrad}$

. An undulator prototype based on the EU-XFEL design and modified for PAL-XFEL was built and tested. A local-

$K$

pole tuning procedure was developed and tested. A significant reduction (90%) of the local-

$K$

fluctuation was observed. The requirement of undulator field reproducibility better than

$2\times 10^{-4}$

and the undulator gap setting accuracy below

$1~{\rm\mu}\text{m}$

were achieved for the prototype. The optical phase jitter after the pole height tuning at the tuning gap was calculated to be

$2.6^{\circ }$

rms, which satisfies the requirement of

$5.0^{\circ }$

.
Generationally Based Differences in the Workplace: Is There a There There?
Authors: Costanza David P. , Finkelstein Lisa M.
Published: July 2015

Stereotypes about generational differences in the workplace abound, and interventions for helping organizations and managers to deal with these supposed differences are increasing. In addition to popular press articles describing the differences and extolling the practices and strategies to deal with them, there are a growing number of researchers who are attempting to establish that there are such differences. Overall, however, there is little solid empirical evidence supporting generationally based differences and almost no theory behind why such differences should even exist. The purposes of this focal article are to explore the myths surrounding generations, to review the risks in using generations in organizational decisions, and to make recommendations for practitioners and researchers on how to proceed in this area.
GM foods: is there a way forward?
Authors: Jones Huw D.
Published: July 2015

There are many quality targets in cereals that could generate step-change improvements in nutritional or food-processing characteristics. For instance, levels of acrylamide, soluble and insoluble fibre, antioxidants, allergens and intolerance factors in food are, to a large extent, determined by the genetics of the raw materials used. However, improvements to these traits pose significant challenges to plant breeders. For some traits, this is because the underlying genetic and biochemical basis of the traits is not fully understood but for others, there is simply a lack of natural genetic variation in commercially useful germplasm. One strategy to overcome the latter hindrance is to use wide crosses with more exotic germplasm; however, this can bring other difficulties such as yield loss and linkage drag of deleterious alleles. As DNA sequencing becomes cheaper and faster, it drives the research fields of reverse genetics and functional genomics which in turn will enable the incorporation of desirable traits into crop varieties via molecular breeding and biotechnology. I will discuss the evolution of these techniques from conventional genetic modification to more recent developments in targeted gene editing and the potential of biotechnology to complement conventional breeding methods. I will also discuss the role of risk assessment and regulation in the commercialisation of GM crops.
Urbanization Threatens Drought-Reducing Clouds in California
Authors: Palmer Chris
Published: July 2015

Since the mid-20th century, increased urbanization along the southern California coast has raised nighttime temperatures, resulting in less morning fog and cloud cover.
Peripheral blood cells from children with RASopathies show enhanced spontaneous colonies growth in vitro and hyperactive RAS signaling
Authors: Gaipa G , Bugarin C , Cianci P , Sarno J , Bonaccorso P , Biondi A , Selicorni A
Published: July 2015

Germline mutations in genes coding for molecules involved in the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK pathway are the hallmarks of a newly classified family of autosomal dominant syndromes termed RASopathies. Myeloproliferative disorders (MPDs), in particular, juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia, can lead to potentially severe complications in children with Noonan syndrome (NS). We studied 27 children with NS or other RASopathies and 35 age-matched children as control subjects. Peripheral blood (PB) cells from these patients were studied for in vitro colony-forming units (CFUs) activity, as well as for intracellular phosphosignaling. Higher spontaneous growth of both burst-forming units-erythroid (BFU-E) and CFU-granulocyte/macrophage (CFU-GM) colonies from RAS-mutated patients were observed as compared with control subjects. We also observed a significantly higher amount of GM-colony-stimulating factor-induced p-ERK in children with RASopathies. Our findings demonstrate for the first time that PB cells isolated from children suffering from NS or other RASopathies without MPD display enhanced BFU-E and CFU-GM colony formation in vitro. The biological significance of these findings clearly awaits further studies. Collectively, our data provide a basis for further investigating of only partially characterized hematological alterations present in children suffering from RASopathies, and may provide new markers for progression toward malignant MPD in these patients.
Recent advances in ultrafast semiconductor disk lasers
Authors: Tilma Bauke W , Mangold Mario , Zaugg Christian A , Link Sandro M , Waldburger Dominik , Klenner Alexander , Mayer Aline S , Gini Emilio , Golling Matthias , Keller Ursula
Published: July 2015

The performance of ultrafast semiconductor disk lasers has rapidly advanced in recent decades. The strong interest from industry for inexpensive, compact, and reliable ultrafast laser sources in the picosecond and femtosecond domains has driven this technology toward commercial products. Frequency metrology and biomedical applications would benefit from sub-200-femtosecond pulse durations with peak powers in the kilowatt range. The aim of this review is to briefly describe the market potential and give an overview of the current status of mode-locked semiconductor disk lasers. Particular focus is placed on the ongoing efforts to achieve shorter pulses with higher peak powers.
Creating semiconductor metafilms with designer absorption spectra
Authors: Kim Soo Jin , Fan Pengyu , Kang Ju-Hyung , Brongersma Mark L.
Published: July 2015

The optical properties of semiconductors are typically considered intrinsic and fixed. Here we leverage the rapid developments in the field of optical metamaterials to create ultrathin semiconductor metafilms with designer absorption spectra. We show how such metafilms can be constructed by placing one or more types of high-index semiconductor antennas into a dense array with subwavelength spacings. It is argued that the large absorption cross-section of semiconductor antennas and their weak near-field coupling open a unique opportunity to create strongly absorbing metafilms whose spectral absorption properties directly reflect those of the individual antennas. Using experiments and simulations, we demonstrate that near-unity absorption at one or more target wavelengths of interest can be achieved in a sub-50-nm-thick metafilm using judiciously sized and spaced Ge nanobeams. The ability to create semiconductor metafilms with custom absorption spectra opens up new design strategies for planar optoelectronic devices and solar cells.
Spin–cavity interactions between a quantum dot molecule and a photonic crystal cavity
Authors: Vora Patrick M. , Bracker Allan S. , Carter Samuel G. , Sweeney Timothy M. , Kim Mijin , Kim Chul Soo , Yang Lily , Brereton Peter G. , Economou Sophia E. , Gammon Daniel
Published: July 2015

The integration of InAs/GaAs quantum dots into nanophotonic cavities has led to impressive demonstrations of cavity quantum electrodynamics. However, these demonstrations are primarily based on two-level excitonic systems. Efforts to couple long-lived quantum dot electron spin states with a cavity are only now succeeding. Here we report a two-spin–cavity system, achieved by embedding an InAs quantum dot molecule within a photonic crystal cavity. With this system we obtain a spin singlet–triplet Λ-system where the ground-state spin splitting exceeds the cavity linewidth by an order of magnitude. This allows us to observe cavity-stimulated Raman emission that is highly spin-selective. Moreover, we demonstrate the first cases of cavity-enhanced optical nonlinearities in a solid-state Λ-system. This provides an all-optical, local method to control the spin exchange splitting. Incorporation of a highly engineerable quantum dot molecule into the photonic crystal architecture advances prospects for a quantum network.
Desialylation is a mechanism of Fc-independent platelet clearance and a therapeutic target in immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Li June , van der Wal Dianne E. , Zhu Guangheng , Xu Miao , Yougbare Issaka , Ma Li , Vadasz Brian , Carrim Naadiya , Grozovsky Renata , Ruan Min , Zhu Lingyan , Zeng Qingshu , Tao Lili , Zhai Zhi-min , Peng Jun , Hou Ming , Leytin Valery , Freedman John , Hoffmeister Karin M. , Ni Heyu
Published: July 2015

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is a common bleeding disorder caused primarily by autoantibodies against platelet GPIIbIIIa and/or the GPIb complex. Current theory suggests that antibody-mediated platelet destruction occurs in the spleen, via macrophages through Fc–FcγR interactions. However, we and others have demonstrated that anti-GPIbα (but not GPIIbIIIa)-mediated ITP is often refractory to therapies targeting FcγR pathways. Here, we generate mouse anti-mouse monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that recognize GPIbα and GPIIbIIIa of different species. Utilizing these unique mAbs and human ITP plasma, we find that anti-GPIbα, but not anti-GPIIbIIIa antibodies, induces Fc-independent platelet activation, sialidase neuraminidase-1 translocation and desialylation. This leads to platelet clearance in the liver via hepatocyte Ashwell–Morell receptors, which is fundamentally different from the classical Fc–FcγR-dependent macrophage phagocytosis. Importantly, sialidase inhibitors ameliorate anti-GPIbα-mediated thrombocytopenia in mice. These findings shed light on Fc-independent cytopenias, designating desialylation as a potential diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target in the treatment of refractory ITP.
Noble metal-comparable SERS enhancement from semiconducting metal oxides by making oxygen vacancies
Authors: Cong Shan , Yuan Yinyin , Chen Zhigang , Hou Junyu , Yang Mei , Su Yanli , Zhang Yongyi , Li Liang , Li Qingwen , Geng Fengxia , Zhao Zhigang
Published: July 2015

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) represents a very powerful tool for the identification of molecular species, but unfortunately it has been essentially restricted to noble metal supports (Au, Ag and Cu). While the application of semiconductor materials as SERS substrate would enormously widen the range of uses for this technique, the detection sensitivity has been much inferior and the achievable SERS enhancement was rather limited, thereby greatly limiting the practical applications. Here we report the employment of non-stoichiometric tungsten oxide nanostructure, sea urchin-like W18O49 nanowire, as the substrate material, to magnify the substrate–analyte molecule interaction, leading to significant magnifications in Raman spectroscopic signature. The enrichment of surface oxygen vacancy could bring additional enhancements. The detection limit concentration was as low as 10−7 M and the maximum enhancement factor was 3.4 × 105, in the rank of the highest sensitivity, to our best knowledge, among semiconducting materials, even comparable to noble metals without ‘hot spots’.