bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Activated air produced by shielded sliding discharge plasma mediates plasmid DNA delivery to mammalian cells
Authors: Edelblute Chelsea M. , Heller Loree C. , Malik Muhammad A. , Heller Richard
Published: June 2015

Cold plasma is emerging as a potential method for medical applications. The current study assessed the efficacy of a novel cold plasma reactor based on shielded sliding discharge producing cathode‐directed streamers generated in ambient air for the delivery of plasmid DNA. Experiments were performed with mouse melanoma cells (B16F10) and human keratinocyte cells (HaCaT) inoculated with plasmid DNA encoding luciferase. Quantitative results measured over a 72‐h period displayed luciferase expression levels as high as 5‐fold greater in cells exposed to plasma‐activated air (PAA) than levels obtained from the inoculation of plasmid DNA alone (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). No effect on cell viability was observed. Delivery of plasmid encoding GFP to HaCaT cells seeded on polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds was confirmed by immunostaining. The use of cold plasma for DNA delivery is attractive as it provides a non‐viral, non‐invasive method where the electrode or the plasma itself never directly contacts the exposed site. The current device design provides localized DNA transfer using a novel technology. Our report suggests PAA warrants further exploration as an alternative or supplemental approach for DNA transfer. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2015;112: 2583–2590. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tailor‐made CRISPR/Cas system for highly efficient targeted gene replacement in the rice blast fungus
Authors: Arazoe Takayuki , Miyoshi Kennosuke , Yamato Tohru , Ogawa Tetsuo , Ohsato Shuichi , Arie Tsutomu , Kuwata Shigeru
Published: June 2015

CRISPR/Cas‐derived RNA‐guided nucleases (RGNs) that can generate DNA double‐strand breaks (DSBs) at a specific sequence are widely used for targeted genome editing by induction of DSB repair in many organisms. The CRISPR/Cas system consists of two components: a single Cas9 nuclease and a single‐guide RNA (sgRNA). Therefore, the system for constructing RGNs is simple and efficient, but the utilization of RGNs in filamentous fungi has not been validated. In this study, we established the CRISPR/Cas system in the model filamentous fungus, Pyricularia oryzae, using Cas9 that was codon‐optimized for filamentous fungi, and the endogenous RNA polymerase (RNAP) III U6 promoter and a RNAP II fungal promoter for the expression of the sgRNA. We further demonstrated that RGNs could recognize the desired sequences and edit endogenous genes through homologous recombination‐mediated targeted gene replacement with high efficiency. Our system will open the way for the development of various CRISPR/Cas‐based applications in filamentous fungi. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2015;112: 2543–2549. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lipopolysaccharide potentiates hyperthermia‐induced seizures
Authors: Eun Baik‐Lin , Abraham Jayne , Mlsna Lauren , Kim Min Jung , Koh Sookyong
Published: June 2015

Background

Prolonged febrile seizures (FS) have both acute and long‐lasting effects on the developing brain. Because FS are often associated with peripheral infection, we aimed to develop a preclinical model of FS that simulates fever and immune activation in order to facilitate the implementation of targeted therapy after prolonged FS in young children.

Methods

The innate immune activator lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was administered to postnatal day 14 rat (200 μg/kg) and mouse (100 μg/kg) pups 2–2.5 h prior to hyperthermic seizures (HT) induced by hair dryer or heat lamp. To determine whether simulation of infection enhances neuronal excitability, latency to seizure onset, threshold temperature and total number of seizures were quantified. Behavioral seizures were correlated with electroencephalographic changes in rat pups. Seizure‐induced proinflammatory cytokine production was assessed in blood samples at various time points after HT. Seizure‐induced microglia activation in the hippocampus was quantified using Cx3cr1GFP/+ mice.

Results

Lipopolysaccharide priming increased susceptibility of rats and mice to hyperthemic seizures and enhanced seizure‐induced proinflammatory cytokine production and microglial activation.

Conclusions

Peripheral inflammation appears to work synergistically with hyperthermia to potentiate seizures and to exacerbate seizure‐induced immune responses. By simulating fever, a regulated increase in body temperature from an immune challenge, we developed a more clinically relevant animal model of prolonged FS.
Eco‐Webbing: A Teaching Strategy to Facilitate Critical Consciousness and Agency
Authors: Williams Joseph M. , McMahon H. George , Goodman Rachael D.
Published: June 2015

Eco‐webbing is a teaching strategy that can be used to help counselor educators integrate a social justice focus into their courses. Preliminary data indicated increased critical consciousness and social justice agency as a result of using eco‐webbing with counseling students (N= 17). The authors provide implications for counselor educators and future research.
Mindfulness‐Based Awareness and Compassion: Predictors of Counselor Empathy and Anxiety
Authors: Fulton Cheryl L. , Cashwell Craig S.
Published: June 2015

Mindfulness‐based awareness and compassion were examined as predictors of empathy and anxiety among 152 master's‐level counseling interns. Results of hierarchical multiple regression analysis supported that awareness and compassion differentially contributed to explaining the variance in counselor empathy and anxiety. Implications for counselor education are discussed.
On generalized Borgen plots. I: From convex to affine combinations and applications to spectral dataSpectra
Authors: Jürß Annekathrin , Sawall Mathias , Neymeyr Klaus
Published: June 2015

In 1985, Borgen and Kowalski (Anal. Chim. Acta 1985; 174: 1‐26) published their landmark paper on the geometric construction of feasible regions for nonnegative factorizations of spectral data matrices for three‐component systems. These geometric constructions are called Borgen plots. Borgen plots are principally restricted to nonnegative data and are sometimes considered as analytical tool. Major contributions to this theory have been given by Rajkó. In contrast to these geometric constructions, numerical methods to compute the so‐called area of feasible solutions (AFS) have been studied by Golshan et al. (Anal. Chem. 2011; 83 (3): 836‐841) and by Sawall et al. (J. Chemom. 2013; 27: 106‐116). These numerical methods can even treat spectral data, which include slightly negative components.

In this work, the concept of generalized Borgen plots is introduced for spectral data, which are polluted by small negative entries. The analysis is not restricted to three‐component systems but can be applied to general s‐component systems. Generalized Borgen plots are identical to the classical Borgen plots for nonnegative data. The analysis in this work also bridges the gap between the different scalings (Borgen norms) used for AFS computations.

The algorithmic procedure of generalized Borgen plots for three‐component systems and its implementation in the FAC‐PACK software are described in the second part of this paper. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Switch‐On Fluorescence of a Perylene‐Dye‐Functionalized Metal–Organic Framework through Postsynthetic Modification
Authors: Dietl Christian , Hintz Henrik , Rühle Bastian , Schmedt auf der Günne Jörn , Langhals Heinz , Wuttke Stefan
Published: June 2015

A perylene dye was introduced directly as a linker into a metal–organic framework (MOF) during synthesis. Depending on the dye concentration in the MOF synthesis mixture, different fluorescent materials were generated. The successful incorporation of the dye was proven by using 13C and 27Al MAS NMR spectroscopy, by solution NMR spectroscopy after digestion of the MOF sample, and by synthesizing a reference dye without connecting groups, which could coordinate on the metal–oxo cluster inside the MOF. Fluorescence quenching effects of the MOF linker, 2‐aminoterephthalate, were observed and overcome by postsynthetic modification with acetic anhydride. We show here for the first time that amino groups, which can be used as anchoring points for covalent attachment of other molecules, are responsible for fluorescence quenching. Thus, a very promising strategy to implement switchable fluorescence into MOFs is shown here.
Pilz produziert antimikrobielles Peptid
Authors: Feil Sylvia
Published: June 2015

Auf Dung konkurrieren Pilze, Bakterien und andere Mikroben um den Lebensraum. Zum ersten Mal wurde untersucht, ob ein Basidiomycet, also ein Ständerpilz, dabei Antibiotika einsetzt. Im Labor wurde mit einer neuen Co‐Kultivierung die Kommunikation des Struppigen Mist‐Tintlings Coprinopsis cinerea mit verschiedenen Bakterien untersucht. Dabei wurde das antimikrobielle Peptid Copsin entdeckt.
Teixobactin: Antibiotikum vom iChip
Authors: Harrer Roswitha
Published: June 2015

Die meisten gegenwärtig verwendeten Antibiotika sind Naturstoffe oder Naturstoffderivate. Der wichtigste Ansatz, neue Antibiotika zu entdecken, ist daher das Screening von natürlichen Quellen. Einem amerikanisch‐deutsch‐englischen Forschungszusammenschluss ist es jüngst gelungen, ein neues Antibiotikum zu extrahieren und zu charakterisieren, das hochwirksam gegen multiresistente Keime ist.
Gen‐Schere weckt Neugier, Hoffnungen und Ängste
Authors: Groß Michael
Published: June 2015

Eine Gen‐Schere, die man zielgenau auf eine beliebige DNA‐Sequenz ansetzen kann, weckt neue Hoffnung in der Gentherapie und Angst vor Manipulationen an der Keimbahn. Unterdessen entschlüsselt die Forschung noch, wie dieses System in der Natur Bakterien vor Viren schützt.
Does gender diversity on corporate boards increase risk‐taking?
Authors: Loukil Nadia , Yousfi Ouidad
Published: June 2015

We study the impact of board gender diversity on firm risk‐taking in a developing market. Our study is drawn from a sample of 30 Tunisian‐listed firms between 1997 and 2010. First, we found that women have a risk perception that leads to risk avoidance behaviour: the presence of women directors, even when there is one woman director, is positively associated with cash ratio. Second, we showed no significant relationship between board gender diversity and the propensity to take strategic or financial risk‐taking. Third, the presence of state officer/bureaucrats and/or politically connected women have a positive effect on cash holding and investment opportunities. Finally, we found that foreign investors do not invest in firms with gender‐diverse boards. We conclude with a discussion of contributions to scholarship and practice, and present avenues for future research. Copyright © 2015 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Aggregation‐Induced Emission of Hexaphenyl‐1,3‐butadiene
Authors: Zhang Yahui , Kong Lingwei , Shi Jianbing , Tong Bin , Zhi Junge , Feng Xiao , Dong Yuping
Published: June 2015

A new type of AIE molecules based on hexaphenyl‐1,3‐butadienes was reported with respect to the synthesis and characterization. This material exhibited different maximum emission wavelength and enhanced emission intensity at different aggregate state (amorphous and crystalline state).
PEG Click‐Triazole Palladacycle: An Efficient Precatalyst for Palladium‐Catalyzed Suzuki‐Miyaura and Copper‐free Sonogashira Reactions in Neat Water
Authors: Zhang Guofu , Zhang Wei , Luan Yuxin , Han Xingwang , Ding Chengrong
Published: June 2015

A novel water‐soluble, phosphine‐free PEG "click" triazole palladacycle has been successfully synthesized. As a precatalyst, the palladacycle exhibited superior catalytic activity towards Suzuki‐Miyaura and copper‐free Sonogashira cross‐coupling in neat water with the turnover numbers (TONs) of up to 9.8×105. In addition, the catalyst could be reused at least 3 times without significant loss of reactivity.
Synthesis of Two Coumarins Isolated from Aster praealtus
Authors: Wang Bo , Chen Huijun , Wu Yikang , Liu Bo
Published: June 2015

Two coumarins isolated from Aster praealtus were synthesized via a direct coupling of the corresponding cyclohexyl carbinol with a coumarin‐derived aryl bromide or iodide, a very difficult etherification due to the excess steric congestion around the carbinol and the low reactivity of the aryl halide that frustrated many seemingly feasible protocols. Unequivocal 1H and 13C NMR data for these compounds were thus made available for the first time. Uncertainty and errors in 1H and 13C NMR data in previous reports are also eliminated and revealed, respectively.
Universal tumor screening for Lynch syndrome: Assessment of the perspectives of patients with colorectal cancer regarding benefits and barriers
Authors: Hunter Jessica Ezzell , Zepp Jamilyn M. , Gilmore Mari J. , Davis James V. , Esterberg Elizabeth J. , Muessig Kristin R. , Peterson Susan K. , Syngal Sapna , Acheson Louise S. , Wiesner Georgia L. , Reiss Jacob A. , Goddard Katrina A.B.
Published: June 2015

BACKGROUND

Universal tumor screening for Lynch syndrome, the most common form of hereditary colorectal cancer (CRC), has been recommended among all patients newly diagnosed with CRC. However, there is limited literature regarding patient perspectives of tumor screening for Lynch syndrome among patients with CRC who are not selected for screening based on family history criteria.

METHODS

A total of 145 patients aged 39 to 87 years were administered surveys assessing perceived risk, patient perspectives, and potential benefits of and barriers to tumor screening for Lynch syndrome. Associations between patient‐specific and cancer‐specific factors and survey responses were analyzed.

RESULTS

The majority of participants perceived their risk of developing Lynch syndrome as being low, with 9 participants (6.2%) anticipating an abnormal screening result. However, most participants endorsed the potential benefits of screening for themselves and their families, with 84.8% endorsing ≥6 benefits and 50.3% endorsing all 8 benefits. Participants also endorsed few potential barriers to screening, with 89.4% endorsing ≤4 of 9 potential barriers. A common barrier was worry about the cost of additional testing and surveillance, which was endorsed by 54.5% of participants. The level of distress associated with tumor screening for Lynch syndrome, which was very low, was not associated with age or CRC stage.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the current study indicate that patients with CRC overall have a positive attitude toward tumor screening for Lynch syndrome, endorse the benefits of screening, and experience low levels of distress. These findings provide insight into patient attitudes toward tumor screening for Lynch syndrome among unselected patients with CRC to inform educational approaches that assist in patient decision‐making and guide the successful implementation of screening programs. Cancer 2015;121:3281–3289. © 2015 American Cancer Society.
Origin of the Regioselectivity in the Gas‐Phase Aniline+CH3+ Electrophilic Aromatic Substitution
Authors: Kinzel Daniel , Zilberg Shmuel , González Leticia
Published: June 2015

Nonadiabatic ab initio molecular dynamics simulations are carried out to monitor the attack of CH3+ on aniline in the gas phase to form the corresponding σ complexes. The reaction is ultrafast and is governed by a single electron transfer within 30 fs, which involves two sequential conical intersections and finally produces a radical pair. Positive‐charge allocation in the aromatic compound is found to govern the substitution pattern in ortho, meta, or para position. Although the major products in the first step of the electrophilic aromatic substitution are the ortho and para σ complexes, initially 26 % of the simulated trajectories also form meta complexes, which then undergo H shifts, mainly to the para position.
Chemically Modified Diatoms Biosilica for Bone Cell Growth with Combined Drug‐Delivery and Antioxidant Properties
Authors: Cicco Stefania R. , Vona Danilo , De Giglio Elvira , Cometa Stefania , Mattioli‐Belmonte Monica , Palumbo Fabio , Ragni Roberta , Farinola Gianluca M.
Published: June 2015

This month’s cover is dedicated to the joint project coordinated by Prof. Gianluca M. Farinola involving the Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, CNR ICCOM and IMIP in Bari, Università Politecnica delle Marche, and Jaber Innovation. The cover picture shows an SEM image of nanostructured biosilica produced by­ Thalassiosira weissflogii­ diatoms covalently functionalized with the radical scavenger TEMPO (green disks) and loaded with the antibiotic Ciprofloxacin (red/white capsules), which is used to combat infections related to orthopedic implants. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/cplu.201402398.
Characterization and parameterization of dynamic wireless channels over long duration using evolutionary channel parameters
Authors: Chude‐Okonkwo Uche A. K. , Chude‐Olisah Chollette C. , Nunoo Solomon , Nga Razal
Published: June 2015

The characterization and parameterization of processes that arise in many fields of science and technology are very crucial. Of particular importance are dynamic processes whose statistics are time‐varying and are often modeled as stochastic processes. A typical example of such process is the wireless communication channel. Existing methods that are used to characterize and parameterize the dynamic stochastic wireless channel often consider short‐term duration over which the channel statistics are invariant. Conversely, this paper presents the characterization of the dynamic wireless communication channel over a long‐term duration where time/frequency channel realizations are obtained at sample intervals. To structure such channel realizations over a long duration, the idea of concatenating the ‘instantaneous’ channel realizations is presented. The resultant concatenated multivariable process is characterized using the concepts of process non‐summability and piecewise separability. Based on these concepts, the second‐order statistical parameterization of the concatenated stochastic process in both time and frequency domain is presented. The parameterization approach is based on fitting appropriate set of unit step functions that approximate the raw concatenated data using sets of evolutionary stationarity parameters. To illustrate the concepts developed in this paper, measurement‐based experiments and analysis are presented and adaptively applied to improve wideband multicarrier system performance. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An adaptive KPCA approach for detecting LDoS attack
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyu , Wu Zhijun , Chen Jiusheng , Yue Meng
Published: June 2015

Low‐rate denial‐of‐service (LDoS) attack sends out attack packets at low‐average rate of traffic flow in short time. It is stealthier than traditional DoS attack, which makes detection of LDoS extremely difficult. In this paper, an adaptive kernel principal component analysis method is proposed for LDoS attack detection. The network traffic flow is extracted through wavelet multi‐scale analysis. An adaptive kernel principal component analysis method is adopted to detect LDoS attack through the squared prediction error statistics. Key parameters such as the parameter of the radial basis function, the number of principal components, and the squared prediction error confidence limit are adaptively trained with training data and updated with the network environment. Simulation is accomplished in NS‐2 environment, and results prove the favorable LDoS attack detection efficiency by the proposed approach. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Integration and scaling of UV‐B radiation effects on plants: from DNA to leaf
Authors: Suchar Vasile Alexandru , Robberecht Ronald
Published: June 2015

A process‐based model integrating the effects of UV‐B radiation through epidermis, cellular DNA, and its consequences to the leaf expansion was developed from key parameters in the published literature. Enhanced UV‐B radiation‐induced DNA damage significantly delayed cell division, resulting in significant reductions in leaf growth and development. Ambient UV‐B radiation‐induced DNA damage significantly reduced the leaf growth of species with high relative epidermal absorbance at longer wavelengths and average/low pyrimidine cyclobutane dimers (CPD) photorepair rates. Leaf expansion was highly dependent on the number of CPD present in the DNA, as a result of UV‐B radiation dose, quantitative and qualitative absorptive properties of epidermal pigments, and repair mechanisms. Formation of pyrimidine‐pyrimidone (6‐4) photoproducts (6‐4PP) has no effect on the leaf expansion. Repair mechanisms could not solely prevent the UV‐B radiation interference with the cell division. Avoidance or effective shielding by increased or modified qualitative epidermal absorptance was required. Sustained increased UV‐B radiation levels are more detrimental than short, high doses of UV‐B radiation. The combination of low temperature and increased UV‐B radiation was more significant in the level of UV‐B radiation‐induced damage than UV‐B radiation alone. Slow‐growing leaves were more affected by increased UV‐B radiation than fast‐growing leaves.
In vivo and ex vivo functional characterization of left ventricular remodelling after myocardial infarction in mice
Authors: Santer David , Nagel Felix , Kreibich Maximilian , Dzilic Elda , Moser Philipp T. , Muschitz Gabriela , Inci Milat , Krssak Martin , Plasenzotti Roberto , Bergmeister Helga , Trescher Karola , Podesser Bruno K.
Published: June 2015

Aims

The interest in cardiac remodelling (REM) has steadily increased during recent years. The aim of this study was to functionally characterize REM following myocardial infarction (MI) in mice using high‐end in vivo and ex vivo methods.

Methods and results

Myocardial infarction or sham operation was induced in A/J mice. Six weeks later, mice underwent cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and were subsequently sacrificed for ex vivo measurements on the isolated heart. Thereafter, hearts were trichrome stained for infarction size calculation. Magnetic resonance imaging showed significantly reduced ejection fraction (P < 0.01) as well as increased end‐systolic and end‐diastolic volumes (P < 0.01) after MI. The mean infarct size was 48.8 ± 6.9% of left ventricle. In the isolated working heart coronary flow (time point 20′: 6.6 ± 0.9 vs. 13.9 ± 1.6 mL/min, P < 0.01), cardiac output (time point 20′: 17.5 ± 2.6 vs. 36.1 ± 4.3 mL/min, P < 0.01) and pump function (80 mmHg: 2.15 ± 0.88 vs. 4.83 ± 0.76, P < 0.05) were significantly attenuated in MI hearts during all measurements. Systolic and diastolic wall stress were significantly elevated in MI animals.

Conclusion

This two‐step approach is reasonable, since data quality increases while animals are not exposed to major additional interventions. Both the working heart and magnetic resonance imaging offer a reliable characterization of the functional changes that go along with the development of post‐MI REM. By combining these two techniques, additional information such as wall stress can be evaluated.
Conversion of Dihydroartemisinic Acid into Dihydro‐epi‐deoxyarteannuin B
Authors: Chen Hui‐Jun , Hao Hong‐Dong , Wu Yikang
Published: June 2015

A facile and high‐yielding one‐step conversion of dihydroartemisinic acid into dihydro‐epi‐deoxyarteannuin B, a natural product and a pivotal compound in the synthesis of several other natural products isolated from Artemisia annua L., was developed after the systematic examination of several potentially applicable conditions. The transformation, most satisfactorily effected with Pd(OAc)2/CuCl2/MnO2, makes it possible to access many known potent antimalarial trioxanes from readily available artemisinic acid. Some interesting cases of differentiation between the carbonyl groups are also presented.
[3]‐1‐Azadendralenes as Versatile Building Blocks for the Stereoselective Synthesis of Polysubstituted Hexahydroquinazolin‐2‐ones and Hexahydrobenzothiazine‐2‐­imines
Authors: Kobayashi Satoru , Kudo Kenji , Ito Ai , Honjo Takuya , Yata Masahiro , Otani Takashi , Kutsumura Noriki , Saito Takao , Berrée Fabienne , Romain Elise , Tripoteau Fabien , Carboni Bertrand
Published: June 2015

A diene‐transmissive hetero‐Diels–Alder reaction of cross‐conjugated 1‐azatrienes (3‐1‐azadendralenes) is described for the synthesis of hexahydroquinazolin‐2‐ones and hexahydrobenzothiazine‐2‐imines derivatives. [4+2] Cycloaddition reactions with tosyl isocyanate or aryl isothiocyanates gave mono‐cycloadducts with high chemo‐ and regioselectivities. The second Diels–Alder reaction with representative dienophiles, tetracyanoethylene, N‐phenylmaleimide, and methyl vinyl ketone, stereoselectively produced ring‐fused nitrogen heterocycles. Skeletal diversity can be accessed by combining the three reaction partners – primary amine, tosyl isocyanate, and cross‐conjugated 1‐oxatriene – in a different sequential order.
1,1′‐Dialkynylferrocenes as Substrates for Bidirectional Alkyne Metathesis Reaction
Authors: Ma Jingxiang , Krauße Nico , Butenschön Holger
Published: June 2015

In the construction of ferrocene‐based molecular wires, alkyne metathesis was investigated as an alternative to palladium‐catalyzed coupling reactions for the synthesis of alkynyl ferrocenes. With a Mortreux catalyst system [Mo(CO)6, 4‐chloro‐ or 2‐fluorophenol], (1‐propynyl)ferrocenes gave the expected homo metathesis products in moderate yields. Because the Mortreux catalyst system is not compatible with 1,1′‐dialkynylferrocenes, a nitridomolybdenum catalyst introduced by Fürstner was tested in bidirectional homo and cross‐alkyne metathesis reactions. Although the homo alkyne metathesis products were obtained in poor yields, the cross‐alkyne metathesis reactions afforded the expected products in good overall yields.
Calibration‐free quantitation in microchip zone electrophoresis with conductivity detection
Authors: Noblitt Scott D. , Henry Charles S.
Published: June 2015

The relationship between electrophoretic mobility and molar conductivity has previously led to speculation on achieving quantitation in zone electrophoresis without calibration curves when using conductivity detection. However, little work in this area has been pursued, possibly because of the breakdown of simple sensitivity‐mobility relationships when working with partially protonated species. This topic is revisited with the aid of electrophoretic simulation software that produces facile predictions of analyte sensitivity relative to an internal standard. Calibration curve slopes for over 50 analyte/internal standard/BGE combinations were measured with both unbiased and electrokinetically biased injections using microchip electrophoresis with conductivity detection. The results were compared to theoretical expectations as computed with PeakMaster software. Good agreement was observed, with some systems being predicted with quantitative accuracy while others showed significant deviations. Some mechanisms that can lead to deviations from theory are demonstrated, but the causes for some discrepancies are still not understood. Overall, this work exhibits another useful application for simulation software, particularly for disposable devices where device‐specific calibration curves cannot be collected. It also serves as quantitative validation for some outputs of PeakMaster simulation software.
Electrode substrate innovation for electrochemical detection in microchip electrophoresis
Authors: Randviir Edward P. , Banks Craig E.
Published: June 2015

Microchip electrophoresis (MCE) represents the next generation of miniaturised electrophoretic devices and carry benefits such as significant improvement in analysis times, lower consumption of reagents and samples, flexibility and procedural simplicity. The devices provide a separation method for complex sample matrices and an on‐board detection method for the analytical determination of a target compound. The detection part of MCE is increasingly leaning towards electrochemical methods, thus the selectivity and sensitivity of detection in MCE is dependent upon the chosen working electrode composition in addition to operating conditions of the chip such as separation voltage. Given the current plethora of electrode materials that are available, there exists a possibility to creatively integrate electrodes into MCE. This review will overview the application of several electrode materials, from the old through to the new. A particular recent focus has been the selectivity element of MCEs overcome with the use of enzymes, carbon composites and screen‐printed technologies.
Metal nano‐film resistivity chemical sensor
Authors: Podešva Pavel , Foret František
Published: June 2015

In this work, we present a study on reusable thin metal film resistivity‐based sensor for direct measurement of binding of thiol containing molecules in liquid samples. While in bulk conductors the DC current is not influenced by the surface events to a measureable degree in a thin metal layer the electrons close to the surface conduct a significant part of electricity and are influenced by the surface interactions. In this study, the thickness of the gold layer was kept below 100 nm resulting in easily measureable resistivity changes of the metal element upon a surface SH‐groups binding. No further surface modifications were necessary. Thin film gold layers deposited on a glass substrate by vacuum sputtering were photolithographically structured into four sensing elements arranged in a Wheatstone bridge to compensate for resistance fluctuations due to the temperature changes. Concentrations as low 100 pM provided measureable signals. The surface after the measurement could be electrolytically regenerated for next measurements.
Comparison of two protocols of periosteal distraction osteogenesis in a rabbit calvaria model
Authors: Saulacic Nikola , Nakahara Ken , Iizuka Tateyuki , Haga‐Tsujimura Maiko , Hofstetter Willy , Scolozzi Paolo
Published: June 2015

The regenerative pathways during periosteal distraction osteogenesis may be influenced by the local environment composed by cells, growth factors, nutrition and mechanical load. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the influence of two protocols of periosteal distraction on bone formation. Custom made distraction devices were surgically fixed onto the calvariae of 60 rabbits. After an initial healing period of 7 days, two groups of animals were submitted to distraction rates of 0.25 and 0.5 mm/24 h for 10 days, respectively. Six animals per group were sacrificed 10 (mid‐distraction), 17 (end‐distraction), 24 (1‐week consolidation), 31 (2‐week consolidation) and 77 days (2‐month consolidation) after surgery. Newly formed bone was assessed by means of micro‐CT and histologically. Expression of transcripts encoding tissue‐specific genes (BMP‐2, RUNX2, ACP5, SPARC, collagen I α1, collagen II α1 and SOX9) was analyzed by quantitative PCR. Two patterns of bone formation were observed, originating from the old bone surface in Group I and from the periosteum in Group II. Bone volume (BV) and bone mineral density (BMD) significantly increased up to the 2‐month consolidation period within the groups (p < 0.05). Significantly more bone was observed in Group II compared to Group I at the 2‐month consolidation period (p < 0.001). Expression of transcripts encoding osteogenic genes in bone depended on the time‐point of observation (p < 0.05). Low level of transcripts reveals an indirect role of periosteum in the osteogenic process. Two protocols of periosteal distraction in the present model resulted in moderate differences in terms of bone formation. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 104B: 1121–1131, 2016.
An Exploratory Model of Proximal Minority Stress and the Work–Life Interface for Men in Same‐Sex, Dual‐Earner Relationships
Authors: Dispenza Franco
Published: June 2015

This study used a path analysis to test an exploratory model that analyzed associations among expectations of stigma, internalized homophobia, dyadic adjustment, and career development satisfaction. As part of the study, an online questionnaire was given to 170 men in same‐sex, dual‐earner relationships. Internalized homophobia and the expectation of stigma predicted ratings of dyadic adjustment, whereas only the expectation of stigma predicted ratings of career development satisfaction. Counseling implications, limitations, and directions for future research are discussed.
Expanding White Racial Identity Theory: A Qualitative Investigation of Whites Engaged in Antiracist Action
Authors: Malott Krista M. , Paone Tina R. , Schaefle Scott , Cates Jennifer , Haizlip Breyan
Published: June 2015

This article presents outcomes of a qualitative exploration of White racial identity. Ten participants whose characteristics were reflective of Helms's () autonomy status defined their racial identities and related lifestyle choices. Findings are conceptualized within the framework of Helms's (, ) theory of White racial identity development. Suggestions are intended to enhance White racial identity theory and provide empirical support for characteristics of Whites who are engaged in antiracist activities.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Career Decision Scale With Iranian Undergraduate Students
Authors: Nasab Mojgan Fadaei , Abdul Kadir Rusnani , Hassan Siti Aishah , Mohd. Noah Sidek
Published: June 2015

The authors examined the reliability and construct validity of the Career Decision Scale (Osipow, Carney, & Barak, ) with 1,610 freshman and sophomore students from public universities from a southwestern state in Iran. A Cronbach's alpha of .80 provided strong support for the scale's reliability. Exploratory factor analysis results indicated a 2‐factor model (Diffusion and Internal/External Barriers) of the scale with Iranian students, which was confirmed by confirmatory factor analysis. Implications and recommendations for further research are discussed.
The evolution of oviparity in squamate reptiles: An adaptationist perspective
Authors: Shine Richard
Published: June 2015

Phylogenetically based analyses can suggest directions of evolutionary transitions, based on parsimony, but can never provide unambiguous answers. To clarify the relative frequency of phylogenetic shifts from oviparity to viviparity versus the reverse, we need additional sources of evidence. Adaptationist thinking (i.e., consideration of selective forces) has revealed a great deal about the transition from oviparity to viviparity, but has rarely been employed to consider the reverse transition. An evaluation of costs and benefits identifies major obstacles to the re‐evolution of oviparity. For example, even a modest decrease in the degree of embryogenesis completed in utero (i.e., a shift from viviparity back toward “normal” oviparity) requires the mother to find a suitable nest‐site (often, a risky endeavor), and a minor decrease in the duration of uterine retention of eggs may not substantially reduce maternal costs (because many of those costs are minimized by maternal behavioral adaptations to pregnancy). In many climates, a small decrease in the duration of uterine retention of eggs would not allow the female to produce a second clutch within the same season; and thus, would not reduce the fecundity disadvantage of viviparity. Life‐history theory thus suggests an asymmetry in the fitness consequences of the intermediate stages between oviparity and viviparity. That asymmetry facilitates the “forward” transition (based on thermally driven benefits to offspring viability) but opposes the “reverse” transition (based on lower fitness of heavily burdened females that need to seek nest‐sites). These factors should constrain the re‐evolution of oviparity to specific conditions (e.g., where abundant nest‐sites are available within a female's usual home range, rather than requiring extensive migration). J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 324B: 487–492, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis, Antiviral, and Antimicrobial Activity of N‐ and S‐Alkylated Phthalazine Derivatives
Authors: Moustafa Ahmed H. , El‐Sayed Hassan A. , Abd El‐Hady Rasha A. , Haikal Abdelfattah Z. , El‐Hashash Maher
Published: June 2015

A series of N‐alkylphthalazinone were synthesized by the reaction of phthalazin‐1(2H)‐one derivatives 1a, 1b, 1c with alkylating agents namely, propargyl, allyl bromide, epichlorohydrin, 1,3‐dichloro‐2‐propanol, 4‐bromobutylacetate, and 1‐(bromomethoxy)ethyl acetate to give the corresponding N‐alkylphthalazinone 2a, 2b, 2c, 3a, 3b, 3c, 5a, 5b, 5c, 6a, 6b, 6c, 7a, 7b, 7c, and 9a, 9b, 9c. Alkylation of phthalazin‐1(2H)‐thione to give a series from S‐alkylphthalazine 12, 13, 14 and thioglycosides 15 and 17 was performed. Deprotection of compounds 7a, 7b, 7c, 9a, 9b, 9c, 15, and 17 resulted in the formation of the corresponding products 8a, 8b, 8c, 10a, 10b, 10c, 16, and 18. The structure of newly synthesized compounds was assigned by IR, 1H, 13C NMR, and elemental analysis. Some of these compounds were screened for antiviral and antimicrobial activity.
The Career Development of Adolescent Mothers: A Review of 25 Years of Professional Literature
Authors: Barto Heather H. , Lambert Simone F. , Brott Pamelia E.
Published: June 2015

Twenty‐one articles from peer‐reviewed journals published over 25 years (1983–2008) were selected for inclusion in a review of the professional literature on adolescent mothers' career development. Findings identified that the selected literature included a variety of research methods and theoretical approaches, identified areas of need for this population, and discussed impediments to the career development of adolescent mothers. The most frequent recommendations, aside from the need for further research, were to develop and implement comprehensive programs for adolescent mothers that are strength based and responsive to their needs, and to foster career development skills/knowledge and resiliency.
Is the Grass Greener? Switching Costs and Geographic Proximity in the High Status Affiliations of Professional Baseball
Authors: Agha Nola , Cobbs Joe
Published: June 2015

Professional baseball operates a tiered system of talent development facilitated by alliances between Minor League Baseball (MiLB) clubs and higher status Major League Baseball (MLB) parent teams. This study applies management theory to advance the literature on MiLB demand modeling by proposing and testing a new set of demand determinants based on interorganizational alliance principles. Team executives at the AA level should be alert to the high cost of switching team alliances and of changing to a parent club in closer geographical proximity. At the AAA level, affiliation with a winning MLB club exerts a positive effect on AAA demand. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Relative Home‐Court Advantage: The Impact of Travel on Team Production When One Team is Closer than its Opponent to a Neutral Game Site
Authors: Carter Kelly E.
Published: June 2015

Using data from the National Collegiate Athletic Association Men's Basketball Tournament, I examine the impact of travel on team production in a setting where one team is geographically closer than its opponent to a neutral site. I hypothesize and find that the closer team, or relative home team, has a relative home‐court advantage that helps it to out‐produce its opponent. When the relative home team travels a much shorter distance than its opponent to a neutral site, binary logistic and ordinary least squares regressions indicate a positive relationship between relative home‐court advantage and, respectfully, winning and margin of victory. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A C0 interior penalty method for a fourth‐order variational inequality of the second kind
Authors: Gudi Thirupathi , Porwal Kamana
Published: June 2015

In this article, we propose a C0 interior penalty method for the frictional plate contact problem and derive both a priori and a posteriori error estimates. We derive an abstract error estimate in the energy norm without additional regularity assumption on the exact solution. The a priori error estimate is of optimal order whenever the solution is regular. Further, we derive a reliable and efficient a posteriori error estimator. Numerical experiments are presented to illustrate the theoretical results. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 32: 36–59, 2016
Polyurethanes reinforced with Spartium Junceum fibers
Authors: Chidichimo Giuseppe , Aloise Armando , Beneduci Amerigo , De Rango Anna , Pingitore Giovanna , Furgiuele Franco , Valentino Piergiorgio
Published: June 2015

The search for alternative polymer composites prepared by renewable resources is gaining increasing attention in the industrial sector. Here we prepared new polyurethane (PU) composite foams with high percentages of the natural vegetable fibers Spartium Junceum in conjunction with biodegradable polyethylene glycols (PEGs). The density and mechanical properties of PU foams were investigated. Further characterization of the morphology of these materials was carried out by scanning electron microscopy. Here we show that these properties can be easily tuned by changing the molecular length of PEGs, the weight ratio between the two principal monomers, and the fraction of water added to the reacting mixtures. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:3042–3049, 2016. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
The NFKB Inducing Kinase Modulates Hematopoiesis During Stress
Authors: González-Murillo África , Fernández Lucía , Baena Sara , Melen Gustavo J. , Sánchez Rebeca , Sánchez-Valdepeñas Carmen , Segovia José C. , Liou Hsiou-Chi , Schmid Roland , Madero Luís , Fresno Manuel , Ramírez Manuel
Published: June 2015

The genetic programs that maintain hematopoiesis during steady state in physiologic conditions are different from those activated during stress. Here, we show that hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) with deficiencies in components of the alternative NFκB pathway (the NFκB inducing kinase, NIK, and the downstream molecule NFκB2) had a defect in response to stressors such as supraphysiological doses of cytokines, chemotherapy, and hematopoietic transplantation. NIK-deficient mice had peripheral blood and bone marrow leukocyte numbers within normal ranges (except for the already reported defects in B-cell maturation); however, HSCs showed significantly slower expansion capacity in in vitro cultures compared to wild-type HSCs. This was due to a delayed cell cycle and increased apoptosis. In vivo experiments showed that NIK-deficient HSCs did not recover at the same pace as controls when challenged with myeloablative chemotherapy. Finally, NIK-deficient HSCs showed a significantly decreased competitive repopulation capacity in vivo. Using HSCs from mice deficient in one of two downstream targets of NIK, that is, either NFκB2 or c-Rel, only NFκB2 deficiency recapitulated the defects detected with NIK-deficient HSCs. Our results underscore the role of NIK and the alternative NFκB pathway for the recovery of normal levels of hematopoiesis after stress. Stem Cells  2015;33:2825–2837
Cholinergic Enhancement of Cell Proliferation in the Postnatal Neurogenic Niche of the Mammalian Spinal Cord
Authors: Corns Laura F. , Atkinson Lucy , Daniel Jill , Edwards Ian J. , New Lauryn , Deuchars Jim , Deuchars Susan A.
Published: June 2015

The region surrounding the central canal (CC) of the spinal cord is a highly plastic area, defined as a postnatal neurogenic niche. Within this region are ependymal cells that can proliferate and differentiate to form new astrocytes and oligodendrocytes following injury and cerebrospinal fluid contacting cells (CSFcCs). The specific environmental conditions, including the modulation by neurotransmitters that influence these cells and their ability to proliferate, are unknown. Here, we show that acetylcholine promotes the proliferation of ependymal cells in mice under both in vitro and in vivo conditions. Using whole cell patch clamp in acute spinal cord slices, acetylcholine directly depolarized ependymal cells and CSFcCs. Antagonism by specific nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) antagonists or potentiation by the α7 containing nAChR (α7*nAChR) modulator PNU 120596 revealed that both α7*nAChRs and non-α7*nAChRs mediated the cholinergic responses. Using the nucleoside analogue EdU (5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine) as a marker of cell proliferation, application of α7*nAChR modulators in spinal cord cultures or in vivo induced proliferation in the CC region, producing Sox-2 expressing ependymal cells. Proliferation also increased in the white and grey matter. PNU 120596 administration also increased the proportion of cells coexpressing oligodendrocyte markers. Thus, variation in the availability of acetylcholine can modulate the rate of proliferation of cells in the ependymal cell layer and white and grey matter through α7*nAChRs. This study highlights the need for further investigation into how neurotransmitters regulate the response of the spinal cord to injury or during aging. Stem Cells  2015;33:2864–2876
Structures with Stellae Quadrangulae Ir4Ge4: A3Ir4Ge4, (A = Ca, Sr, Eu), Ba2Ir4Ge5, and Ba2MgIr4Ge4
Authors: Kessens Rainer , Jung Walter
Published: June 2015

The germanides Ca3Ir4Ge4, Sr3Ir4Ge4, Eu3Ir4Ge4, Ba2Ir4Ge5, and Ba2MgIr4Ge4 were obtained from mixtures of the elements at 1200 °C. The crystal structures were solved and refined from single crystal diffraction data. With the Na3Pt4Ge4 type structure (space group I$\bar{4}$3m, Z = 2) crystallize: Ca3Ir4Ge4 [a = 7.5824(2) Å], Sr3Ir4Ge4 [a = 7.6972(1) Å], and Eu3Ir4Ge4 [a = 7.6580(3) Å]. The K2Zn5As4 structure type (space group Cmcm, Z = 4) is adopted by the compounds Ba2Ir4Ge5 [a = 11.3297(4) Å, b = 6.7614(2) Å, c = 11.5930(5) Å] and Ba2MgIr4Ge4 [a = 11.0953(5) Å, b = 7.1305(5) Å, c = 11.5685(5) Å]. Both structure types are characterized by stellae quadrangulae Ir4Ge4. In Ca3Ir4Ge4, Sr3Ir4Ge4, and Eu3Ir4Ge4 these are connected to eight others by Ir–Ge bonds. In the structure of Ba2Ir4Ge5 the number of neighboring Ir4Ge4 units linked by direct bonds is reduced to six, whereas two others are connected by additional Ge atoms. In the quaternary compound these Ge atoms are substituted by Mg atoms.
Quality of Life and Late Complications After Minimally Invasive Compared to Open Esophagectomy: Results of a Randomized Trial
Authors: Maas K. W. , Cuesta M. A. , van Berge Henegouwen M. I. , Roig J. , Bonavina L. , Rosman C. , Gisbertz S. S. , Biere S. S. A. Y. , van der Peet D. L.
Published: June 2015

Background

The minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) is widely being implemented for esophageal cancer in order to reduce morbidity and improve quality of life. Non‐randomized studies investigating the mid‐term quality of life after MIE show conflicting results at 1‐year follow‐up. Therefore, the aim of this study is to determine whether MIE has a continuing better mid‐term 1‐year quality of life than open esophagectomy (OE) indicating both a faster recovery and less procedure‐related symptoms.

Methods

A one‐year follow‐up analysis of the quality of life was conducted for patients participating in the randomized trial in which MIE was compared with OE. Late complications as symptomatic stenosis of anastomosis are also reported.

Results

Quality of life at 1 year was better in the MIE group than in the OE group for the physical component summary SF36 [50 (6; 48–53) versus 45 (9; 42–48) p. 003]; global health C30 [79 (10; 76–83) versus 67 (21; 60–75) p. 004]; and pain OES18 module [6 (9; 2–8) versus 16 (16; 10–22) p. 001], respectively. Twenty six patients (44 %) in the MIE and 22 patients (39 %) in the OE group were diagnosed and treated for symptomatic stenosis of the anastomosis.

Conclusions

This first randomized trial shows that MIE is associated with a better mid‐term one‐year quality of life compared to OE.