bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Population Ecology of Hantavirus Rodent Hosts in Southern Brazil
Authors: Teixeira Bernardo R. , Loureiro Nathalie , Strecht Liana , Gentile Rosana , Oliveira Renata C. , Guterres Alexandro , Fernandes Jorlan , Mattos Luciana H. B. V. , Raboni Sonia M. , Rubio Giselia , Bonvicino Cibele R. , Duarte dos Santos Claudia N. , Lemos Elba R. S. , D'Andrea Paulo S.
Published: June 2014

In this study we analyze population dynamics of hantavirus rodent hosts and prevalence of infection over a 2-year period in Southern Brazil, a region with a high incidence of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. The 14 small mammal species captured were composed of 10 rodents and four marsupials, the six most abundant species being Akodon serrensis, Oxymycterus judex, Akodon montensis, Akodon paranaensis, Oligoryzomys nigripes, and Thaptomys nigrita. These species displayed a similar pattern with increasing population sizes in fall/winter caused by recruitment and both, increase in reproductive activity and higher hantavirus prevalence in spring/summer. Specific associations between A. montensis/Jaborá Virus (JABV) and O. nigripes/Juquitiba-like Virus (JUQV-like) and spillover infections between A. paranaensis/JABV, A. serrensis/JABV, and A. paranaensis/JUQV-like were observed. Spillover infection in secondary hosts seems to play an important role in maintaining JABV and JUQV-like in the hantavirus sylvatic cycle mainly during periods of low prevalence in primary hosts.
Storm-time meridional flows: a comparison of CINDI observations and model results
Authors: Hairston M. , Maruyama N. , Coley W. R. , Stoneback R.
Published: June 2014

Abstract. During a large geomagnetic storm, the electric field from the polar ionosphere can expand far enough to affect the mid-latitude and equatorial electric fields. These changes in the equatorial zonal electric field, called the penetration field, will cause changes in the meridional ion flows that can be observed by radars and spacecraft. In general this E × B ion flow near the equator caused by the penetration field during undershielding conditions will be upward on the dayside and downward on the nightside of the Earth. Previous analysis of the equatorial meridional flows observed by CINDI instrument on the C/NOFS spacecraft during the 26 September 2011 storm showed that all of the response flows on the dayside were excess downward flows instead of the expected upward flows. These observed storm-time responses are compared to a prediction from a physics-based coupled model of thermosphere–ionosphere–inner-magnetosphere in an effort to explain these observations. The model results suggest that the equatorial downward flow could be attributed to a combined effect of the overshielding and disturbance dynamo processes. However, some discrepancy between the model and observation indicates a need for improving our understanding of how sensitive the equatorial electric field is to various model input parameters that describe the magnetosphere–ionosphere coupling processes.
Image-Based Modeling Approaches to 2D and 3D Digital Drafting in Archaeology at Tel Akko and Qasrin
Authors: Quartermaine Jamie , Olson Brandon R. , Killebrew Ann E.
Published: June 2014

As archaeologists continue to adopt geographic information systems and computer-aided design software packages to record and store spatial data, excavations have begun to forgo hand-drawn plans in favor of digital recording. The purpose of this article is to present two case studies that have successfully utilized digital drafting techniques to create architectural plans at multiple scales. The first presents on-site 2D and 3D documentation at the site of Tel Akko, Israel, at the square, field, and tell scales. The second study combines orthophotos and legacy data to create an accurate site plan of Qasrin on the Golan Heights. Both harness image-based modeling to produce 2D and 3D spatial data in order to produce top plans with unprecedented spatial accuracy.
Technological Reciprocity with a Cell Phone
Authors: Irwin Stacey O. ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: June 2014

Perception and reciprocity are key understandings in the lived experience of driving while using a cellular phone. When I talk on a cell phone while driving, I interpret the world through a variety of technologically mediated perceptions. I interpret the bumps in the road and the bug on the windshield. I perceive the information on the dashboard and the conversation with the Other on the other end of the technological “line” of the phone. This reflection uses hermeneutical phenomenology to address the things themselves in life with which we relate and interact with in our everydayness, as we talk on a cell phone while driving.
‘Be prepared’: Water storage on The Summit
Authors: McVay Dan , Horning Judy , Downey Jim , McGowan Steven P.
Published: June 2014

Facing a need to provide water for the Boy Scout Jamboree, the Boy Scouts of America hired a multicompany project team to meet their needs for the site while balancing their commitment to sustainability.
Capping Water Extractions: A Key Strategy for a Water‐Secure Future
Authors: Richter Brian
Published: June 2014

In 1997 a ministerial council representing four Australian states and the capital territory took a remarkably bold step: The council instituted a firm limit on the total volume of water that could be extracted from the Murray‐Darling River basin. “The Cap,” as it became known, froze water use at a level equal to ~ 40% of the average annual volume of river flow.
Is Our Water Affordable?
Authors: Davis Jon , Crea Joe
Published: June 2014

During the first decade of the 21st century, local governments spent nearly $1 trillion on capital investments for water and wastewater infrastructure. The anticipated need during the next 25 years is projected to match this amount for drinking water alone, whereas the wastewater investment is projected to be even greater. These are staggering amounts, especially when considering that this investment will be passed on to rate payers as grant funding is no longer an option for most utilities. Reliable access to water and wastewater service is a critical component of every society; however, providing that access is becoming a contentious issue.
Mortality Rates of Traumatic Traffic Accident Patients at the University Hospital
Authors: MAYDA Atilla Senih , YILMAZ Muammer , BOLU Filiz , USLU Mustafa , YEŞİLDAL Nuray
Published: June 2014

The aim of the study is to estimate hospitalization and mortality rates in patients admitted to the University Hospital due to traffic accidents, and to determine the mean cost of the applicants in the hospital due to traffic accident. In this retrospective study data were obtained from the records of a university research and practice hospital. There were 802 patients admitted to emergency and other outpatient clinics of the University Hospital because of traffic accidents throughout the year 2012. Out of these patients, 166 (20.7%) were hospitalized, and the annual mortality rate was 0.87%. The total cost was 322,545.2 euro and 402.2 euro per patient. Road traffic accident detection reports covered only the numbers of fatal injuries and injuries that happened at the scene of accidents. Determination of the number of the dead and wounded with overall mortality rate would be supposed to reveal the magnitude of public health problem caused by traffic accidents.
Can Mobility Management Campaigning Contribute to Pro-Environmental Behaviour in General? Development of an Analytical Tool
Authors: Winslott Hiselius Lena
Published: June 2014

This paper brings to the fore the importance of a holistic approach to attaining a general pro-environmental behavioural change in order to reduce carbon emissions and the need to strive for a spillover of pro-environmental behaviour from one area to another. An adjusted version of the MaxSEM model is developed to capture differences in stages of behavioural change regarding environmental load on entering a Mobility Management campaign and one year after. The analytical tool is applied on two test samples in order to illustrate the tool and possible difficulties and methodological challenges. The test samples consist of participants in Mobility Management campaigns with personal incentives in two cities in Sweden. The application of the tool indicates e.g. that the timing of the survey is important and that there is need to upscale the MM-campaigns, in order to further discuss and analyse the effects of voluntary mobility measures in other domains.
French 2013 guidelines for antiretroviral therapy of HIV‐1 infection in adults
Authors: Hoen Bruno , Bonnet Fabrice , Delaugerre Constance , Delobel Pierre , Goujard Cécile , L’Hénaff Marianne , Persiaux Renaud , Rey David , Rouzioux Christine , Taburet Anne‐Marie , Morlat Philippe ,   2013 French HIV expert group
Published: June 2014

Introduction

These guidelines are part of the French Experts’ recommendations for the management of people living with HIV/AIDS, which were made public and submitted to the French health authorities in September 2013. The objective was to provide updated recommendations for antiretroviral treatment (ART) of HIV‐positive adults. Guidelines included the following topics: when to start, what to start, specific situations for the choice of the first session of antiretroviral therapy, optimization of antiretroviral therapy after virologic suppression, and management of virologic failure.

Methods

Ten members of the French HIV 2013 expert group were responsible for guidelines on ART. They systematically reviewed the most recent literature. The chairman of the subgroup was responsible for drafting the guidelines, which were subsequently discussed within, and finalized by the whole expert group to obtain a consensus. Recommendations were graded for strength and level of evidence using predefined criteria. Economic considerations were part of the decision‐making process for selecting preferred first‐line options. Potential conflicts of interest were actively managed throughout the whole process.

Results

ART should be initiated in any HIV‐positive person, whatever his/her CD4 T‐cell count, even when >500/mm3. The level of evidence of the individual benefit of ART in terms of mortality or progression to AIDS increases with decreasing CD4 cell count. Preferred initial regimens include two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (tenofovir/emtricitabine or abacavir/lamivudine) plus a non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (efavirenz or rilpivirine), or a ritonavir‐boosted protease inhibitor (atazanavir or darunavir). Raltegravir, lopinavir/r, and nevirapine are recommended as alternative third agents, with specific indications and restrictions. Specific situations such as HIV infection in women, primary HIV infection, severe immune suppression with or without identified opportunistic infection, and person who injects drugs are addressed. Options for optimization of ART once virologic suppression is achieved are discussed. Evaluation and management of virologic failure are described, the aim of any intervention in such situation being to reduce plasma viral load to <50 copies/ml.

Conclusion

These guidelines recommend that any HIV‐positive individual should be treated with ART. This recommendation was issued both for the patient’s own sake and for promoting treatment as prevention.
Random Copolymers Based on Thieno[3,4‐c]pyrrole‐4,6‐dione and Isoindigo Building Blocks for Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Deng Ping , Xiong Jian , Li Shugang , Wu Yibing , Yang Junliang , Zhang Qing
Published: June 2014

Three random conjugated polymers, RP‐TiI, RP‐2TiI and RP‐TVTiI based on both thieno[3,4‐c]pyrrole‐4,6‐dione and isoindigo units have been synthesized by Stille cross‐coupling reaction. The optical and electrochemical properties of new polymers have been investigated. The resulted polymers showed broad absorption spectra and appropriate energy levels for polymer solar cell applications. The bulk heterojunction devices based on the blend of the polymer RP‐TiI and PC61BM showed a power conversion efficiency of 1.75%.
A randomized controlled trial of hypnosis compared with biofeedback for adults with chronic low back pain
Authors: Tan G. , Rintala D.H. , Jensen M.P. , Fukui T. , Smith D. , Williams W.
Published: June 2014

Background

Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is common and results in significant costs to individuals, families and society. Although some research supports the efficacy of hypnosis for CLBP, we know little about the minimum dose needed to produce meaningful benefits, the roles of home practice and hypnotizability on outcome, or the maintenance of treatment benefits beyond 3 months.

Methods

One hundred veterans with CLBP participated in a randomized, four‐group design study. The groups were (1) an eight‐session self‐hypnosis training intervention without audio recordings for home practice; (2) an eight‐session self‐hypnosis training intervention with recordings; (3) a two‐session self‐hypnosis training intervention with recordings and brief weekly reminder telephone calls; and (4) an eight‐session active (biofeedback) control intervention.

Results

Participants in all four groups reported significant pre‐ to post‐treatment improvements in pain intensity, pain interference and sleep quality. The hypnosis groups combined reported significantly more pain intensity reduction than the control group. There was no significant difference among the three hypnosis conditions. Over half of the participants who received hypnosis reported clinically meaningful (≥30%) reductions in pain intensity, and they maintained these benefits for at least 6 months after treatment. Neither hypnotizability nor amount of home practice was associated significantly with treatment outcome.

Conclusions

The findings indicate that two sessions of self‐hypnosis training with audio recordings for home practice may be as effective as eight sessions of hypnosis treatment. If replicated in other patient samples, the findings have important implications for the application of hypnosis treatment for chronic pain management.
Olefin Cross‐Metathesis: Studies towards the Total Synthesis of (+)‐Bitungolide F
Authors: Dayaker Gandrath , Krishna Palakodety Radha
Published: June 2014

A stereoselective synthesis of (5S,6S)‐6‐[(2S,5S,7R,8E,10E)‐5‐(benzyloxy)‐7‐{[(tert‐butyl)dimethylsilyl]oxy}‐11‐phenylundeca‐8,10‐dien‐2‐yl]‐5‐ethyl‐5,6‐dihydro‐2H‐pyran‐2‐one (=(+)‐9‐O‐benzyl‐11‐O‐[(tert‐butyl)dimethylsilyl]bitungolide F) is reported. The strategy involves Gilman reaction, olefin cross‐metathesis, and HornerWadsworthEmmons olefination as key steps.
Credit Card Crimewave: What to Do?
Authors: Singleton Tommie
Published: June 2014

Target stores recently made big headlines when data were stolen from at least 40 million credit cards and 70 million other accounts. And to coin a phrase, Target isn't the only target. International criminal gangs with highly skilled, tech‐savvy members now routinely steal money via credit cards. But when it happens, credit card companies mostly just return stolen funds to the victim, and everyone moves on. The criminals count on that, and on living in countries free from U.S. extradition. But can anything be done?
Density functional theory study on mechanisms of epoxy‐phenol curing reaction
Authors: Pham My‐Phuong , Pham Buu Q. , Huynh Lam K. , Pham Ha Q. , Marks Maurice J. , Truong Thanh N.
Published: June 2014

A comprehensive picture on the mechanism of the epoxy‐phenol curing reactions is presented using the density functional theory B3LYP/ 6‐31G(d,p) and simplified physical molecular models to examine all possible reaction pathways. Phenol can act as its own promoter by using an addition phenol molecule to stabilize the transition states, and thus lower the rate‐limiting barriers by 27.0–48.9 kJ/mol. In the uncatalyzed reaction, an epoxy ring is opened by a phenol with an apparent barrier of about 129.6 kJ/mol. In catalyzed reaction, catalysts facilitate the epoxy ring opening prior to curing that lowers the apparent barriers by 48.9–50.6 kJ/mol. However, this can be competed in highly basic catalysts such as amine‐based catalysts, where catalysts are trapped in forms of hydrogen‐bonded complex with phenol. Our theoretical results predict the activation energy in the range of 79.0–80.7 kJ/mol in phosphine‐based catalyzed reactions, which agrees well with the reported experimental range of 54–86 kJ/mol. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hybrid Bio‐Based Composites from UPE/EML Blends, Natural Fibers, and Nanoclay
Authors: Haq Mahmoodul , Burgueño Rigoberto , Mohanty Amar K. , Misra Manjusri
Published: June 2014

Hybrid bio‐based composites from blends of petroleum and vegetable oil resins reinforced with natural fibers and nanoclay platelets can lead to synergistic property enhancements from the multi‐scale constituents. Twelve material designs with average hemp fiber content of 30 wt%, varying nanoclay, up to 5 wt%, and epoxidized methyl linseedate (EML), up to 30%, in unsaturated polyester (UPE) were processed and their tensile, impact, and moisture properties were experimentally characterized. The resulting biocomposites displayed synergistic behavior with the effects of bio‐resin addition being complemented by nanoclay and vice versa. Optimal performance with balanced properties (stiffness, toughness, and resistance to moisture absorption) was observed in material systems with 2.5 wt% nanoclay and up to 20% EML. Overall, hybrid biocomposites show promise in applications that require excellent stiffness‐toughness balance.
DNAPL Source Depletion: 1. Predicting Rates and Timeframes
Authors: Carey Grant R. , McBean Edward A. , Feenstra Stan
Published: June 2014

Given the relatively rapid rate of dense nonaqueous‐phase liquid (DNAPL) ganglia depletion, source zones are generally dominated by horizontal layers of DNAPL after a release to the saturated zone. Estimating the time required to attain specific source strength reduction targets resulting from partial DNAPL source depletion is challenging due to a lack of available screening models, and because little has been done to synthesize available empirical data. Analytical and semi‐analytical models are used to study general DNAPL pool dissolution dynamics. The half‐life for the decline in DNAPL source strength (i.e., aqueous mass discharge) is demonstrated as proportional to the square root of the pool length, the thickness of the pool, and the solubility for single component DNAPLs. The through‐pool discharge is shown to be potentially significant for thin pools or in upper regions of thicker pools. An empirical analysis is used to evaluate average concentration decline rates for 13 in situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) and 16 enhanced in situ bioremediation (EISB) sites. Mean apparent decline rates, based on the time required to achieve the observed source strength reduction, are calculated for the ISCO and EISB sites (half‐lives of 0.39 year and 0.29 year, respectively). The empirical study sites are shown to have faster decline rates than for a large, complex study site where ISCO was implemented (half‐life of 2.5 years), and for a conceptual pool‐dominated trichloroethene source zone where EISB was simulated (half‐life of 2.5 years). Guidance is provided on using these findings in estimating timeframes for partial DNAPL depletion goals. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Generating 3D Depiction for a Future ECDIS Based on Digital Earth
Authors: Liu Tao , Zhao Depeng , Pan Mingyang
Published: June 2014

An Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC) is a two-dimensional abstraction and generalisation of the real world and it limits users' ability to obtain more real and rich spatial information of the navigation environment. However, a three-dimensional (3D) chart could dramatically reduce the number of human errors and improve the accuracy and efficiency of manoeuvring. Thus it is important to be able to visualize charts in 3D. This article proposes a new model for future Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS) and describes our approach for the construction of web-based multi-resolution future ECDIS implemented in our system Automotive Intelligent Chart (AIC) 3D ECDIS, including multi-resolution riverbed construction technology, multi-layer technology for data fusion, Mercator transformation of the model, rendering and web publishing methods. AIC 3D ECDIS can support global spatial data and 3D visualization, which merges the 2D vector electronic navigational chart with the three-dimensional navigation environment in a unified framework and interface, and is also published on the web to provide application and data service through the network.
Oscillatory carbonylation using alkyne-functionalised poly(ethylene glycol)
Authors: Donlon Lynn , Novakovic Katarina
Published: June 2014

Synchronised oscillations in pH and solution turbidity recorded over several days using mono alkyne-terminated poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether substrates.
A silver nanowire-based tip suitable for STM tip-enhanced Raman scattering
Authors: Fujita Yasuhiko , Chiba Rie , Lu Gang , Horimoto Noriko N. , Kajimoto Shinji , Fukumura Hiroshi , Uji-i Hiroshi
Published: June 2014

A chemically synthesized silver nanowire was used for atomic-resolution STM imaging and tip-enhanced Raman scattering (TERS) spectroscopy, yielding excellent reproducibility.
Synthesis of nitrogen heterocycles via α-aminoalkyl radicals generated from α-silyl secondary amines under visible light irradiation
Authors: Nakajima Kazunari , Kitagawa Mai , Ashida Yuya , Miyake Yoshihiro , Nishibayashi Yoshiaki
Published: June 2014

We have succeeded in the visible light-mediated synthetic use of α-aminoalkyl radicals derived from α-silyl secondary amines toward addition to α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds. The resulting γ-aminocarbonyl compounds are converted into γ-lactams and pyrroles in a one-pot process.
Controllable aggregation-induced emission based on a tetraphenylethylene-functionalized pillar[5]arene via host–guest recognition
Authors: Wu Jie , Sun Shu , Feng Xiaoqing , Shi Jianbing , Hu Xiao-Yu , Wang Leyong
Published: June 2014

A novel TPE-functionalized pillar[5]arene (TPEP5) was successfully synthesized, and the motion of the TPE motif was restricted via pillararene-based host–guest recognition-mediated cross-linking, resulting in the efficient “turn-on” of fluorescence emission based on the AIE mechanism.
A lithium–sulfur cathode with high sulfur loading and high capacity per area: a binder-free carbon fiber cloth–sulfur material
Authors: Miao Lixiao , Wang Weikun , Yuan Keguo , Yang Yusheng , Wang Anbang
Published: June 2014

A high capacity per area (>7 mA h cm−2) sulfur cathode with high sulfur loading (6.7 mg cm−2) was fabricated by a simple method. An ingenuity method is adopted which can improve performance of Li–S battery by forming in-situ polysulfide ions.
Advanced unidirectional photocurrent generation via cytochrome c as reaction partner for directed assembly of photosystem I
Authors: Stieger Kai R. , Feifel Sven C. , Lokstein Heiko , Lisdat Fred
Published: June 2014

Engineering biohybrid photodiodes using surface-fixed cytochrome c as scaffold for efficiently connecting photosystem I with electrodes in 3D protein architectures.
Relating structure and photoelectrochemical properties: electron injection by structurally and theoretically characterized transition metal-doped phenanthroline–polyoxotitanate nanoparticles
Authors: Jarzembska Katarzyna N. , Chen Yang , Nasca Justin N. , Trzop Elżbieta , Watson David F. , Coppens Philip
Published: June 2014

Whereas a large number of sensitized polyoxotitanate clusters have been reported, information on the electrochemical properties of the fully structurally and theoretically defined nanoparticles has not been available and is presented here.
Unimolecular thermal decomposition of dimethoxybenzenes
Authors: Robichaud David J. , Scheer Adam M. , Mukarakate Calvin , Ormond Thomas K. , Buckingham Grant T. , Ellison G. Barney , Nimlos Mark R.
Published: June 2014

The unimolecular thermal decomposition mechanisms of o-, m-, and p-dimethoxybenzene (CH3O-C6H4-OCH3) have been studied using a high temperature, microtubular (μtubular) SiC reactor with a residence time of 100 μs. Product detection was carried out using single photon ionization (SPI, 10.487 eV) and resonance enhanced multiphoton ionization (REMPI) time-of-flight mass spectrometry and matrix infrared absorption spectroscopy from 400 K to 1600 K. The initial pyrolytic step for each isomer is methoxy bond homolysis to eliminate methyl radical. Subsequent thermolysis is unique for each isomer. In the case of o-CH3O-C6H4-OCH3, intramolecular H-transfer dominates leading to the formation of o-hydroxybenzaldehyde (o-HO-C6H4-CHO) and phenol (C6H5OH). Para-CH3O-C6H4-OCH3 immediately breaks the second methoxy bond to form p-benzoquinone, which decomposes further to cyclopentadienone (C5H4=O). Finally, the m-CH3O-C6H4-OCH3 isomer will predominantly follow a ring-reduction/CO-elimination mechanism to form C5H4=O. Electronic structure calculations and transition state theory are used to confirm mechanisms and comment on kinetics. Implications for lignin pyrolysis are discussed.
Global analytical ab initio ground-state potential energy surface for the C(1D)+H2 reactive system
Authors: Zhang Chunfang , Fu Mingkai , Shen Zhitao , Ma Haitao , Bian Wensheng
Published: June 2014

A new global ab initio potential energy surface (called ZMB-a) for the \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$1^1\hspace{-2.27626pt}A^{\prime }$\end{document}11A′ state of the C(1D)+H2 reactive system has been constructed. This is based upon ab initio calculations using the internally contracted multireference configuration interaction approach with the aug-cc-pVQZ basis set, performed at about 6300 symmetry unique geometries. Accurate analytical fits are generated using many-body expansions with the permutationally invariant polynomials, except that the fit of the deep well region is taken from our previous fit. The ZMB-a surface is unique in the accurate description of the regions around conical intersections (CIs) and of van der Waals (vdW) interactions. The CIs between the \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$1^1\hspace{-2.27626pt}A^{\prime }$\end{document}11A′ and \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$2^1\hspace{-2.27626pt}A^{\prime }$\end{document}21A′ states cause two kinds of barriers on the ZMB-a surface: one is in the linear H-CH dissociation direction with a barrier height of 9.07 kcal/mol, which is much higher than those on the surfaces reported before; the other is in the C(1D) collinearly attacking H2 direction with a barrier height of 12.39 kcal/mol. The ZMB-a surface basically reproduces our ab initio calculations in the vdW interaction regions, and supports a linear C-HH vdW complex in the entrance channel, and two vdW complexes in the exit channel, at linear CH-H and HC-H geometries, respectively.
An improved DNA force field for ssDNA interactions with gold nanoparticles
Authors: Jiang Xiankai , Gao Jun , Huynh Tien , Huai Ping , Fan Chunhai , Zhou Ruhong , Song Bo
Published: June 2014

The widespread applications of single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) conjugated gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have spurred an increasing interest in the interactions between ssDNA and AuNPs. Despite extensive studies using the most sophisticated experimental techniques, the detailed molecular mechanisms still remain largely unknown. Large scale molecular dynamics (MD) simulations can thus be used to supplement experiments by providing complementary information about ssDNA-AuNP interactions. However, up to now, all modern force fields for DNA were developed based on the properties of double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) molecules, which have hydrophilic outer backbones “protecting” hydrophobic inner nucleobases from water. Without the double-helix structure of dsDNA and thus the “protection” by the outer backbone, the nucleobases of ssDNA are directly exposed to solvent, and their behavior in water is very different from that of dsDNA, especially at the interface with nanoparticles. In this work, we have improved the force field of ssDNA for use with nanoparticles, such as AuNPs, based on recent experimental results and quantum mechanics calculations. With the new improved force field, we demonstrated that a poly(A) sequence adsorbed on a AuNP surface is much more stable than a poly(T) sequence, which is consistent with recent experimental observations. On the contrary, the current standard force fields, including AMBER03, CHARMM27, and OPLSAA, all gave erroneous results as compared to experiments. The current improved force field is expected to have wide applications in the study of ssDNA with nanomaterials including AuNPs, which might help promote the development of ssDNA-based biosensors and other bionano-devices.
Effects of the relative motion of different particles on the wave instability in dusty plasmas
Authors: Gao Dong-Ning , Hong Xue-Ren , Lin Mai-mai , Han Juan-fang , Duan Wen-shan , Yang Lei
Published: June 2014

Theoretical study is carried out for the dust acoustic waves in a dusty plasma. The dispersion relation is obtained from the fluid dynamical model. It is found that the wave frequency depends on the electron number density, wave number, and the speed of electrons or ions. The dependencies of the instability on the system parameters are also discussed. It is found that the long wavelength wave is usually unstable, which may be useful in the plasma physics, especially in the magnetic confined fusion system or the charged beam dynamics in the accelerated driven system.
Genetically designed L3 photonic crystal nanocavities with measured quality factor exceeding one million
Authors: Lai Y. , Pirotta S. , Urbinati G. , Gerace D. , Minkov M. , Savona V. , Badolato A. , Galli M.
Published: June 2014

We report on the experimental realization of ultra-high quality factor (Q) designs of the L3-type photonic crystal nanocavity. Based on genetic optimization of the positions of few nearby holes, our design drastically improves the performance of the conventional L3 as experimentally confirmed by direct measurement of Q ≃ 2 × 106 in a silicon-based photonic crystal membrane. Our devices rank among the highest Q/V ratios ever reported in photonic crystal cavities, holding great promise for the realization of integrated photonic platforms based on ultra-high-Q resonators.
Binding of HenV clusters to α-Fe grain boundaries
Authors: Tschopp M. A. , Gao F. , Solanki K. N.
Published: June 2014

The objective of this research is to explore the formation/binding energetics and length scales associated with the interaction between HenV clusters and grain boundaries in bcc α-Fe. In this work, we calculated formation/binding energies for 1–8 He atoms in a monovacancy at all potential grain boundary (GB) sites within 15 Å of the ten grain boundaries selected (122106 simulations total). The present results provide detailed information about the interaction energies and length scales of 1–8 He atoms with grain boundaries for the structures examined. A number of interesting new findings emerge from the present study. First, the Σ3(112) “twin” GB has significantly lower binding energies for all HenV clusters than all other boundaries in this study. For all grain boundary sites, the effect of the local environment surrounding each site on the HenV formation and binding energies decreases with an increasing number of He atoms in the HenV cluster. Based on the calculated dataset, we formulated a model to capture the evolution of the formation and binding energy of HenV clusters as a function of distance from the GB center, utilizing only constants related to the maximum binding energy and the length scale.
Lowering the density of electronic defects on organic-functionalized Si(100) surfaces
Authors: Peng Weina , DeBenedetti William J. I. , Kim Seonjae , Hines Melissa A. , Chabal Yves J.
Published: June 2014

The electrical quality of functionalized, oxide-free silicon surfaces is critical for chemical sensing, photovoltaics, and molecular electronics applications. In contrast to Si/SiO2 interfaces, the density of interface states (Dit) cannot be reduced by high temperature annealing because organic layers decompose above 300 °C. While a reasonable Dit is achieved on functionalized atomically flat Si(111) surfaces, it has been challenging to develop successful chemical treatments for the technologically relevant Si(100) surfaces. We demonstrate here that recent advances in the chemical preparation of quasi-atomically-flat, H-terminated Si(100) surfaces lead to a marked suppression of electronic states of functionalized surfaces. Using a non-invasive conductance-voltage method to study functionalized Si(100) surfaces with varying roughness, a Dit as low as 2.5 × 1011 cm−2eV−1 is obtained for the quasi-atomically-flat surfaces, in contrast to >7 × 1011 cm−2eV−1 on atomically rough Si(100) surfaces. The interfacial quality of the organic/quasi-atomically-flat Si(100) interface is very close to that obtained on organic/atomically flat Si(111) surfaces, opening the door to applications previously thought to be restricted to Si(111).
Near-infrared electroluminescence and photo detection in InGaAs p-i-n microdisks grown by selective area growth on silicon
Authors: Kjellman Jon Øyvind , Sugiyama Masakazu , Nakano Yoshiaki
Published: June 2014

Microselective-area growth of p-i-n InGaAs disks on (111) silicon by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition is a promising technology for III/V-on-Si integration. As a proof-of-concept, room-temperature electroluminescence is reported from ensembles of p-i-n InGaAs-on-Si micro-disks. The observed spectrum shows peak luminescence at 1.78 μm with a local maxima at 1.65 μm. The disks are also shown to generate a measurable photo current when illuminated by infrared light with less energy than the silicon bandgap energy. This makes these InGaAs-on-Si disks a promising technology for monolithic integration of light sources and detectors with silicon photonics and complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor electronics for optical communication, sensing, and imaging.
Perinatal Experiences of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender People
Authors: Ross Lori E. , Goldberg Abbie E.
Published: June 2014

This essay aims to educate scholars and practitioners about the context of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) parenting and perinatal psychology in LGBT people to further research on this population, as well as to ensure provision of appropriate care during the perinatal period. The essay begins by providing an overview of the minority stress framework, a theoretical framework that is useful in understanding the mental health concerns of LGBT people. The essay then discusses language and definitional issues, providing a brief glossary of key terms necessary for culturally competent work with LGBT people. Next, an overview is provided of the ways in which LGBT people are forming families in contemporary society. The body of the essay reviews existing literature on the transition to parenthood and perinatal mental health experiences of LGBT people and closes with some conclusions and future directions for research that follow from the existing literature.
X-ray spectroscopy of the mixed morphology supernova remnant W 28 with XMM-Newton
Authors: Nakamura Ryoko , Bamba Aya , Ishida Manabu , Yamazaki Ryo , Tatematsu Ken'ichi , Kohri Kazunori , Pühlhofer Gerd , Wagner Stefan J. , Sawada Makoto
Published: June 2014

We report on spatially resolved X-ray spectroscopy of the north-eastern part of the mixed morphology supernova remnant (SNR) W 28 with XMM-Newton. The observed field of view includes a prominent and twisted shell emission forming the edge of this SNR as well as part of the center-filled X-ray emission brightening toward the south-west edge of the field of view. The shell region spectra are in general represented by an optically thin thermal plasma emission in collisional ionization equilibrium with a temperature of ∼ 0.3 keV and a density of ∼ 10 cm−3, which is much higher than the density obtained for inner parts. In contrast, we detected no significant X-ray flux from one of the TeV γ-ray peaks with an upper-limit flux of 2.1 × 10−14 erg cm−2 s−1 in the 2–10 keV band. The large flux ratio of TeV to X-ray, larger than 16, and the spatial coincidence of the molecular cloud and the TeV γ-ray emission site indicate that the TeV γ-ray of W 28 is π0-decay emission originating from collisions between accelerated protons and molecular cloud protons. Comparing the spectrum in the TeV band and the X-ray upper limit, we obtained a weak upper limit on the magnetic field strength B ≲ 1500 μG.
The bacterial lipopeptide iturins induce Verticillium dahliae cell death by affecting fungal signalling pathways and mediate plant defence responses involved in pathogen‐associated molecular pattern‐triggered immunity
Authors: Han Qin , Wu Fengli , Wang Xiaonan , Qi Hong , Shi Liang , Ren Ang , Liu Qinghai , Zhao Mingwen , Tang Canming
Published: June 2014

Verticillium wilt in cotton caused by Verticillium dahliae is one of the most serious plant diseases worldwide. Because no known fungicides or cotton cultivars provide sufficient protection against this pathogen, V. dahliae causes major crop yield losses. Here, an isolated cotton endophytic bacterium, designated Bacillus amyloliquefaciens 41B‐1, exhibited greater than 50% biocontrol efficacy against V. dahliae in cotton plants under greenhouse conditions. Through high‐performance liquid chromatography and mass analysis of the filtrate, we found that the antifungal compounds present in the strain 41B‐1 culture filtrate were a series of isoforms of iturins. The purified iturins suppressed V. dahliae microsclerotial germination in the absence or presence of cotton. Treatment with the iturins induced reactive oxygen species bursts, Hog1 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation and defects in cell wall integrity. The oxidative stress response and high‐osmolarity glycerol pathway contribute to iturins resistance in V. dahliae. In contrast, the Slt2 MAPK pathway may be involved in iturins sensitivity in this fungus. In addition to antagonism, iturins could induce plant defence responses as activators and mediate pathogen‐associated molecular pattern‐triggered immunity. These findings suggest that iturins may affect fungal signalling pathways and mediate plant defence responses against V. dahliae.
‘The living death of Alzheimer's’ versus ‘Take a walk to keep dementia at bay’: representations of dementia in print media and carer discourse
Authors: Peel Elizabeth
Published: June 2014

Understanding dementia is a pressing social challenge. This article draws on the ‘Dementia talking: care conversation and communication’ project which aims to understand how talk about, and to people living with dementia is constructed. In this article I draw on the construction of dementia manifest in two data sets – a corpus of 350 recent UK national newspaper articles and qualitative data derived from in‐depth interviews with informal carers. These data were analysed using a thematic discursive approach. A ‘panic‐blame’ framework was evident in much of the print media coverage. Dementia was represented in catastrophic terms as a ‘tsunami’ and ‘worse than death’, juxtaposed with coverage of individualistic behavioural change and lifestyle recommendations to ‘stave off’ the condition. Contrary to this media discourse, in carers' talk there was scant use of hyperbolic metaphor or reference to individual responsibility for dementia, and any corresponding blame and accountability. I argue that the presence of individualistic dementia ‘preventative’ behaviour in media discourse is problematic, especially in comparison to other more ‘controllable’ and treatable chronic conditions. Engagement with, and critique of, the nascent panic‐blame cultural context may be fruitful in enhancing positive social change for people diagnosed with dementia and their carers.
‘The more you link, the more you risk …’ – a focus group study exploring views about data linkage for pharmacovigilance
Authors: Hopf Yvonne M. , Bond Christine , Francis Jill , Haughney John , Helms Peter J.
Published: June 2014

Aims

The aim of this study was to assess opinions of frontline healthcare professionals on the linking of routinely collected national (Scottish) paediatric data for the purpose of identifying earlier signals of adverse drug reactions.

Methods

Stratified purposive sampling led to profession‐specific focus groups with pharmacists, nurses and medical doctors from primary and secondary care in different Scottish Health Boards. A topic guide was used to explore the proposed data linkage of routinely collected paediatric data. Discussions were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were analysed using a framework approach to identify themes. Ethical approval was obtained from the North of Scotland Research Ethics Service.

Results

Six focus groups were conducted in 2011 with 22 participants. Views of the proposed data linkage were generally positive. Several issues were identified, including lack of clarity on data ownership and concerns about diversion of funding. Identified issues were at a practical rather than a strategic level.

Conclusions

This study identified that professional stakeholder groups are likely to find linkage of paediatric patient data acceptable. Barriers identified could be addressed. Focus group participants commented on the importance of informing patients and members of the public about the benefits of linking healthcare data. These findings clarify the steps that should be taken to ensure the acceptability of data linkage for pharmacovigilance.
Association of Experience with Illness and End‐of‐life Care with Advance Care Planning in Older Adults
Authors: Amjad Halima , Towle Virginia , Fried Terri
Published: June 2014

Objectives

To examine whether experiences with illness and end‐of‐life care are associated with readiness to participate in advance care planning (ACP).

Design

Observational cohort study.

Setting

Community.

Participants

Persons aged 60 and older recruited from physician offices and a senior center.

Measurements

Participants were asked about personal experience with major illness or surgery and experience with others' end‐of‐life care, including whether they had made a medical decision for someone dying, knew someone who had a bad death due to too much or too little medical care, or experienced the death of a loved one who made end‐of‐life wishes known. Stages of change were assessed for specific ACP behaviors: completion of living will and healthcare proxy, communication with loved ones regarding life‐sustaining treatments and quantity versus quality of life, and communication with physicians about these same topics. Stages of change included precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, and action or maintenance, corresponding to whether the participant was not ready to complete the behavior, was considering participation in the next 6 months, was planning participation within 30 days, or had already participated.

Results

Of 304 participants, 84% had one or more personal experiences or experience with others. Personal experiences were not associated with greater readiness for most ACP behaviors. In contrast, having one or more experiences with others was associated with greater readiness to complete a living will and healthcare proxy, discuss life‐sustaining treatment with loved ones, and discuss quantity versus quality of life with loved ones and with physicians.

Conclusion

Older individuals who have experience with end‐of‐life care of others demonstrate greater readiness to participate in ACP. Discussions with older adults regarding these experiences may be a useful tool in promoting ACP.
Quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping of silique length and petal colour in Brassica rapa
Authors: Kebede Berisso , Rahman Habibur
Published: June 2014

Recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from a cross between Brassica rapa L. cv. ‘Sampad’, and an inbred line 3‐0026.027 was used to map the loci controlling silique length and petal colour. The RILs were evaluated under four environments. Variation for silique length in the RILs ranged from normal, such as ‘Sampad’, to short silique, such as 3‐0026.027. Three QTL, SLA3, SLA5 and SLA7, were detected on the linkage groups A3, A5 and A7, respectively. These QTL explained 36.0 to 42.3% total phenotypic variance in the individual environments and collectively 32.5% phenotypic variance. No additive × additive epistatic interaction was detected between the three QTL. Moreover, no QTL × environment interaction was detected in any of the four environments. The number of loci for silique length detected based on QTL mapping agrees well with the results from segregation analysis of the RILs. In case of petal colour, a single locus governing this trait was detected on the linkage group A2.
Frequency of brown rot fungi on blossoms and fruit in stone fruit orchards in Greece
Authors: Papavasileiou A. , Testempasis S. , Michailides T. J. , Karaoglanidis G. S.
Published: June 2014

Brown rot is a devastating disease of stone fruits caused by Monilinia spp. This study was conducted to investigate the disease aetiology on blossoms and fruit in peach, apricot, sweet cherry and plum orchards, in Greece. In total, 1433 isolates obtained from orchards located in the main stone fruit production regions of Greece were identified to species based on the presence/size of a cyt b intron. Monilinia laxa and M. fructicola were detected at frequencies of 59 and 41%, respectively, while M. fructigena was absent. Monilinia fructicola was more common on fruit whereas M. laxa occurred in similar frequency on blossoms and fruit. Monilinia laxa was replaced by M. fructicola in fruit infections of peach in both regions investigated and in fruit infections of plum in the Imathia region. Assessments of aggressiveness of 30 isolates of both species on the petals and fruits of the hosts showed that M. fructicola isolates were more aggressive. This suggests that the predominance of M. laxa on the blossoms cannot be explained by higher aggressiveness. Measurements of the effect of temperature on mycelial growth showed that M. laxa isolates had a higher growth rate than M. fructicola at the lowest temperature tested of 5°C, whereas M. fructicola isolates showed higher growth rates at higher temperatures. The observed high frequency of M. fructicola in Greece represents a major threat for stone fruit production. Furthermore, the information obtained about delineation of species and plant organ preference could be useful for the implementation of disease management strategies.