bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Canadian Expert Panel Recommendations for MRI Use in MS Diagnosis and Monitoring
Authors: Traboulsee Anthony , Létourneau-Guillon Laurent , Freedman Mark Steven , O’Connor Paul W. , Bharatha Aditya , Chakraborty Santanu , Girard J. Marc , Giuliani Fabrizio , Lysack John T. , Marriott James J. , Metz Luanne M. , Morrow Sarah A. , Oh Jiwon , Sharma Manas , Vandorpe Robert A. , Vertinsky Talia Alexandra , Wadhwa Vikram S. , von Riedemann Sarah , Li David K.B.
Published: April 2015

Background: A definitive diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS), as distinct from a clinically isolated syndrome, requires one of two conditions: a second clinical attack or particular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings as defined by the McDonald criteria. MRI is also important after a diagnosis is made as a means of monitoring subclinical disease activity. While a standardized protocol for diagnostic and follow-up MRI has been developed by the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centres, acceptance and implementation in Canada have been suboptimal.Methods: To improve diagnosis, monitoring, and management of a clinically isolated syndrome and MS, a Canadian expert panel created consensus recommendations about the appropriate application of the 2010 McDonald criteria in routine practice, strategies to improve adherence to the standardized Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centres MRI protocol, and methods for ensuring effective communication among health care practitioners, in particular referring physicians, neurologists, and radiologists.Results: This article presents eight consensus statements developed by the expert panel, along with the rationale underlying the recommendations and commentaries on how to prioritize resource use within the Canadian healthcare system.Conclusions: The expert panel calls on neurologists and radiologists in Canada to incorporate the McDonald criteria, the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centres MRI protocol, and other guidance given in this consensus presentation into their practices. By improving communication and general awareness of best practices for MRI use in MS diagnosis and monitoring, we can improve patient care across Canada by providing timely diagnosis, informed management decisions, and better continuity of care.
Cronyism and Nepotism Are Bad for Everyone: The Research Evidence
Authors: Pearce Jone L.
Published: April 2015

Jones and Stout (2015) have made one claim that I would like to correct: There is substantial quantitative (and observational) research on the workplace and organizational performance effects of nepotism and cronyism. That these authors have missed this research is understandable; the research is not in traditional industrial and organizational (I-O) psychology publications (although some of it does appear in journals from the related field of organizational behavior). Nevertheless, this work is systematic and rigorous, and the work provides strong evidence to support the experience-based perceptions of practitioners that nepotism and cronyism damage employees and their supervisors and produces poorer organizational performance. I welcome the opportunity that Jones and Stout (2015) have provided to briefly introduce my colleagues in I-O psychology to this literature.
Policing Nepotism and Cronyism Without Losing the Value of Social Connection
Authors: Jones Robert G. , Stout Tracy
Published: April 2015

Antinepotism policies are common in work organizations. Although cronyism appears to be commonplace as well, official policing of cronyism is less common. We argue that social connections in some crony relationships and apparently nepotic ones may add considerable value to organizations. We also argue that policing of nepotic relationships can be a form of unfair discrimination when the perception of inequity, rather than its reality, is being policed. Finally we consider effective approaches that simultaneously preserve the value of social connection, avoid the actual ethical breaches associated with some social connections, and avoid any unfair discrimination on the basis of group memberships (in this case, family and friends).
The Bittersweet Silver Spoon: Considering the Mixed and Contextual Effects of Nepotistic Organizational Practices
Authors: Calvard Thomas Stephen , Rajpaul-Baptiste Cindy
Published: April 2015

The focal article by Jones and Stout (2015) has revealed just how much there is for industrial and organizational (I-O) psychologists to try to unpack in the implications of nepotism for organizations and employees, particularly in relation to selection and development practices. In this brief commentary, we try to make two contributions to this state of affairs. First, we discuss the importance of disentangling different types of nepotistic and social connection preference (SCP) effects in context because these differences may in turn implicate distinct processes and effects that shape employee outcomes. We do this in part by drawing on findings from some of our own data on nepotistic hiring within a Caribbean coast guard organization (Rajpaul-Baptiste & Calvard, 2012). Second, we argue that for nepotism and SCP to be considered more fully and fruitfully as topics for I-O research and practice, these topics need to be integrated and consolidated more thoroughly along with existing work on diversity management, cross-cultural psychology, organizational discourses, organizational contexts, institutional logics, and social network approaches. We believe this is likely to produce more theoretical, methodological, empirical, and practical coherence across emerging I-O research in this area, without leading researchers and practitioners to reinvent the wheel or misguidedly rely on cultural stereotypes about nepotism and cronyism.
Seeing the Forest but Missing the Trees: The Role of Judgments in Performance Management
Authors: Meriac John P. , Gorman C. Allen , Macan Therese
Published: April 2015

Various solutions have been proposed to “fix” performance management (PM) over the last several decades. Pulakos, Mueller Hanson, Arad, and Moye (2015) have presented a holistic approach to improving PM in organizations. Although this approach addresses several key elements related to the social context of PM, namely the buy-in of organizational stakeholders, timely and regular feedback, and future-directed feedback, we believe that several robust findings from the PM research literature could further improve this process. Are Pulakos et al. looking at the forest but missing the trees? In the following commentary, we offer several reasons that performance judgments and perhaps even informal ratings are still operating and occurring in the proposed holistic system. Therefore, advancements in other areas of PM research may offer additional ways to fix PM.
Informal and Formal Performance Management: Both Are Needed
Authors: Cardy Robert L.
Published: April 2015

Dissatisfaction with performance management (PM) has had a long history. Managers and employees alike have frustrations with the system, and numerous calls for the elimination of performance appraisal have been made over the years (e.g., Scholtes, 1999). The dissatisfaction and calls for elimination have created pressure for change in the practice of PM, and I applaud the focus on feedback and coaching that Pulakos, Mueller Hanson, Arad, and Moye (2015) have proposed. Providing feedback and being actively involved in the PM process would seem to be a key part of the job of managers, yet many managers are uncomfortable addressing this central task. Focusing efforts in our field on improving the skills of managers and helping managers become effective coaches can play a key role in improving PM. The need for improvement in the informal process, however, does not mean that the formal process is not needed. Pulakos et al. have suggested streamlining the formal PM system as much as possible, with particular emphasis on the possibility of eliminating performance ratings. It is argued here that the formal PM system still serves important purposes. It is also argued that a balance between the informal and formal aspects of the PM system needs to be maintained. These two issues are addressed below.
Vitamin E supplementation is associated with lower levels of C-reactive protein only in higher dosages and combined with other antioxidants: The Cooperative Health Research in the Region of Augsburg (KORA) F4 study
Authors: Schwab Sigrid , Zierer Astrid , Schneider Andrea , Heier Margit , Koenig Wolfgang , Kastenmüller Gabi , Waldenberger Melanie , Peters Annette , Thorand Barbara
Published: April 2015

The aim of the present study was to examine the association between intake of five common antioxidative nutrients from supplements and medications (vitamin E, vitamin C, carotenoids, Se, and Zn) and levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in the general population. For this purpose, a total of 2924 participants of the population-based Cooperative Health Research in the Region of Augsburg (KORA) F4 study (2006–8) were investigated cross-sectionally. Intake of dietary supplements and medication during the last 7 d was recorded in a personal interview, when participants were asked to show product packages of ingested preparations. Linear regression models were calculated; first, the exposure to regular nutrient intake was treated with a binary response (yes/no); then regularly ingested amounts were divided into quartiles to examine dose–response relationships. Effect of singlev.combined supplementation of antioxidants was assessed through the inclusion of interaction terms into the models. Regular intake of any of the five investigated antioxidantsper sewas not associated with hs-CRP levels. However, dose–response analyses revealed that participants who regularly ingested more than 78 mg vitamin E/d, which corresponds to the upper quartile, had 22 % lower hs-CRP levels (95 % CI 0·63, 0·97) compared to those of persons who were not exposed to any vitamin E supplementation. Stratified analyses showed that this association was found only in persons who took vitamin E in combination with other antioxidants. The combined supplementation of vitamin E with other antioxidants could thus be a promising strategy for the prevention of inflammation-related diseases in the general population, if further studies could confirm that the proposed association is causal.
Areas of potential suitability and survival ofDendroctonus valensin china under extreme climate warming scenario
Authors: He S.Y. , Ge X.Z. , Wang T. , Wen J.B. , Zong S.X.
Published: April 2015

The areas in China with climates suitable for the potential distribution of the pest species red turpentine beetle (RTB)Dendroctonus valensLeConte (Coleoptera: Scolytidae) were predicted by CLIMEX based on historical climate data and future climate data with warming estimated. The model used a historical climate data set (1971–2000) and a simulated climate data set (2010–2039) provided by the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change (TYN SC 2.0). Based on the historical climate data, a wide area was available in China with a suitable climate for the beetle in which every province might contain suitable habitats for this pest, particularly all of the southern provinces. The northern limit of the distribution of the beetle was predicted to reach Yakeshi and Elunchun in Inner Mongolia, and the western boundary would reach to Keerkezi in Xinjiang Province. Based on a global-warming scenario, the area with a potential climate suited to RTB in the next 30 years (2010–2039) may extend further to the northeast. The northern limit of the distribution could reach most parts of south Heilongjiang Province, whereas the western limit would remain unchanged. Combined with the tendency for RTB to spread, the variation in suitable habitats within the scenario of extreme climate warming and the multiple geographical elements of China led us to assume that, within the next 30 years, RTB would spread towards the northeast, northwest, and central regions of China and could be a potentially serious problem for the forests of China.
Antibiosis and tolerance but not antixenosis to the grain aphid, Sitobion avenae (Hemiptera: Aphididae), are essential mechanisms of resistance in a wheat cultivar
Authors: Cao H.-H. , Pan M.-Z. , Liu H.-R. , Wang S.-H. , Liu T.-X.
Published: April 2015

Continuous ingestion of the phloem sap of plants by aphids can remove a significant amount of photoassimilates. Based on our earlier works, we hypothesized that due to the reduced aphid feeding time caused by antibiosis, wheat plants may achieve growth tolerance to aphids. We tested this hypothesis using three wheat cultivars, XY22 (Xiaoyan22), AK58 (Bainongaikang58) and XN979 (Xinong979) and the grain aphid, Sitobion avenae. In the choice test, S. avenae did not show any preference among the three wheat cultivars. However, S. avenae had a lower body weight and a lower intrinsic rate of increase when feeding on XY22 than on AK58 and XN979. The electrical penetration graph results indicated that S. avenae had significantly shorter mean and total phloem ingestion periods on XY22 than on AK58 or XN979. The aphids required a similar time to reach the phloem sap on the three wheat cultivars, but required more time to establish sustained phloem ingestion on XY22. These results suggest that the resistance factors of XY22 may be phloem based. Moreover, XY22 suffered less biomass loss in response to aphid infestation compared with XN979, suggesting that XY22 also had a better growth tolerance to S. avenae than XN979. Wheat resistance level to S. avenae was partially correlated with plant photosynthetic rates, and peroxidase activities. These results confirmed that the limitation in aphid feeding from plant phloem in wheat cultivar XY22 was related to antibiosis but not antixenosis, which caused XY22 tolerance to S. avenae.
A NewPablik: Abdul Halim Sharar, volunteerism, and the Anjuman-e Dar-us-Salam in late nineteenth-century India
Authors: PERKINS C. RYAN
Published: April 2015

In the second half of the nineteenth century an increasing number of Indians entered the world of volunteerism and public activism. One such individual was the prolific Urdu writer Abdul Halim Sharar (1860–1926), who served as the secretary for a short-lived voluntary association, the Anjuman-e Dar-us-Salam, during the late 1880s in Lucknow, India. Using readers’ letters as printed in Sharar's widely circulating monthly periodical,Dil Gudāz, this article seeks to understand the reasons behind the increasing role of volunteerism as part and parcel of a modernsharīfMuslim identity in the post-1857 period. Having adopted the role of a community activist, Sharar began using his periodical, soon after its inception, to mobilize and recruit his readers to participate in what he described as a passionate movement sweeping through the ‘Islami pablik’. Both rhetorical and descriptive, such an idea provided hope for a divided and struggling community to overcome the divisions that were central to their many challenges in a post-1857 world. Through the study of the vicissitudes and challenges faced by Sharar and his fellow activists, this article underscores the ways in which public activism and volunteerism simultaneously represented the possibility for Muslims to use their own resources to bring about real social and political change, and also reminded them of their shortcomings and the limits of an informal activism. This article seeks to show that ultimately, even such ‘failed’ and ephemeral attempts were foundational for more effective mass mobilization efforts in the following decades and into the twentieth century.
Fields and the Intelligibility of Contact Action
Authors: Sherry David
Published: April 2015

This article concerns arguments for the impossibility of contact action and, subsequently, the use of force fields to render intelligible apparent cases of contact action. I argue that instead of unraveling the mystery of contact action, fields only deepen the mystery. Further, I show that there is a confusion underlying arguments for the impossibility of contact and present an analysis of contact, based upon Körner's treatment of empirical continuity, which restores intelligibility to apparent cases of contact action.
Core Schemas in Youth at Clinical High Risk for Psychosis
Authors: Stowkowy Jacqueline , Liu Lu , Cadenhead Kristin S. , Cannon Tyrone D. , Cornblatt Barbara A. , McGlashan Thomas H. , Perkins Diana O. , Seidman Larry J. , Tsuang Ming T. , Walker Elaine F. , Woods Scott W. , Bearden Carrie E. , Mathalon Daniel H. , Heinssen Robert , Addington Jean
Published: April 2015

Background: Schema Theory proposes that the development of maladaptive schemas are based on a combination of memories, emotions and cognitions regarding oneself and one's relationship to others. A cognitive model of psychosis suggests that schemas are crucial to the development and persistence of psychosis. Little is known about the impact that schemas may have on those considered to be at clinical high risk (CHR) of developing psychosis. Aims: To investigate schemas over time in a large sample of CHR individuals and healthy controls. Method: Sample included 765 CHR participants and 280 healthy controls. Schemas were assessed at baseline, 6 and 12 months using the Brief Core Schema Scale (BCSS). Baseline schemas were compared to 2-year clinical outcome. Results: CHR participants evidenced stable and more maladaptive schemas over time compared to controls. Schemas at initial contact did not vary amongst the different clinical outcome groups at 2 years although all CHR outcome groups evidenced significantly worse schemas than healthy controls. Although there were no differences on baseline schemas between those who later transitioned to psychosis compared to those who did not, those who transitioned to psychosis had more maladaptive negative self-schemas at the time of transition. Associations between negative schemas were positively correlated with earlier abuse and bullying. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate a need for interventions that aim to improve maladaptive schemas among the CHR population. Therapies targeting self-esteem, as well as schema therapy may be important work for future studies.
Adaptation and Validation of the Sexual Assertiveness Scale (SAS) in a Sample of Male Drug Users
Authors: Vallejo-Medina Pablo , Sierra Juan Carlos
Published: April 2015

The aim of the present study was to adapt and validate the Sexual Assertiveness Scale (SAS) in a sample of male drug users. A sample of 326 male drug users and 322 non-clinical males was selected by cluster sampling and convenience sampling, respectively. Results showed that the scale had good psychometric properties and adequate internal consistency reliability (Initiation = .66, Refusal = .74 and STD-P = .79). An evaluation of the invariance showed strong factor equivalence between both samples. A high and moderate effect of Differential Item Functioning was only found in items 1 and 14 (∆R2 Nagelkerke = .076 and .037, respectively). We strongly recommend not using item 1 if the goal is to compare the scores of both groups, otherwise the comparison will be biased. Correlations obtained between the CSFQ-14 and the safe sex ratio and the SAS subscales were significant (CI = 95%) and indicated good concurrent validity. Scores of male drug users were similar to those of non-clinical males. Therefore, the adaptation of the SAS to drug users provides enough guarantees for reliable and valid use in both clinical practice and research, although care should be taken with item 1.
Selective organ preservation with neo-adjuvant chemotherapy for the treatment of muscle invasive transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder
Authors: Hafeez S , Horwich A , Omar O , Mohammed K , Thompson A , Kumar P , Khoo V , Van As N , Eeles R , Dearnaley D , Huddart R
Published: April 2015

Background:

Radiotherapy for muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) aims to offer organ preservation without oncological compromise. Neo-adjuvant chemotherapy provides survival advantage; response may guide patient selection for bladder preservation and identify those most likely to have favourable result with radiotherapy.

Methods:

Ninety-four successive patients with T2-T4aN0M0 bladder cancer treated between January 2000 and June 2011 were analysed at the Royal Marsden Hospital. Patients received platinum-based chemotherapy following transurethral resection of bladder tumour; repeat cystoscopy (±biopsy) was performed to guide subsequent management. Responders were treated with radiotherapy. Poor responders were recommended radical cystectomy. Progression-free survival (PFS), disease-specific survival (DSS) and overall survival (OS) were estimated using Kaplan–Meier method; univariate and multivariate analyses were performed using the Cox proportional hazard regression model.

Results:

Response assessment was performed in 89 patients. Seventy-eight (88%) demonstrated response; 53 (60%) achieved complete response (CR); 74 responders had radiotherapy; 4 opted for cystectomy. Eleven (12%) demonstrated poor response, 10 received cystectomy. Median survival for CR was 90 months (95% CI 64.7, 115.9) compared with 16 months (95% CI 5.4, 27.4; P<0.001) poor responders. On multivariate analysis, only response was associated with significantly improved PFS, OS and DSS. After a median follow-up of 39 months (range 4–127 months), 14 patients (16%) required salvage cystectomy (8 for non-muscle invasive disease, 5 for invasive recurrence, 1 for radiotherapy related toxicity). In all, 82% had an intact bladder at last follow-up after radiotherapy; 67% had an intact bladder at last follow-up or death. Our study is limited by its retrospective nature.

Conclusions:

Response to neo-adjuvant chemotherapy is a favourable prognostic indicator and can be used to select patients for radiotherapy allowing bladder preservation in >80% of the selected patients.
Physiological adaptations to weight loss and factors favouring weight regain
Authors: Greenway F L
Published: April 2015

Obesity is a major global health problem and predisposes individuals to several comorbidities that can affect life expectancy. Interventions based on lifestyle modification (for example, improved diet and exercise) are integral components in the management of obesity. However, although weight loss can be achieved through dietary restriction and/or increased physical activity, over the long term many individuals regain weight. The aim of this article is to review the research into the processes and mechanisms that underpin weight regain after weight loss and comment on future strategies to address them. Maintenance of body weight is regulated by the interaction of a number of processes, encompassing homoeostatic, environmental and behavioural factors. In homoeostatic regulation, the hypothalamus has a central role in integrating signals regarding food intake, energy balance and body weight, while an ‘obesogenic’ environment and behavioural patterns exert effects on the amount and type of food intake and physical activity. The roles of other environmental factors are also now being considered, including sleep debt and iatrogenic effects of medications, many of which warrant further investigation. Unfortunately, physiological adaptations to weight loss favour weight regain. These changes include perturbations in the levels of circulating appetite-related hormones and energy homoeostasis, in addition to alterations in nutrient metabolism and subjective appetite. To maintain weight loss, individuals must adhere to behaviours that counteract physiological adaptations and other factors favouring weight regain. It is difficult to overcome physiology with behaviour. Weight loss medications and surgery change the physiology of body weight regulation and are the best chance for long-term success. An increased understanding of the physiology of weight loss and regain will underpin the development of future strategies to support overweight and obese individuals in their efforts to achieve and maintain weight loss.
Erratum: Genomic potential for nitrogen assimilation in uncultivated members of Prochlorococcus from an anoxic marine zone
Authors: Astorga-Eló Marcia , Ramírez-Flandes Salvador , DeLong Edward F , Ulloa Osvaldo
Published: April 2015

Correction to: The ISME Journal advance online publication 20 February 2015; doi:10.1038/ismej.2015.21 After the publication of this paper, an error was noticed in the sentences ‘Phylogenetic analysis using the 16S–23S rRNA internal transcribed spacer region revealed that the AMZ-associated Prochlorococcus assemblages are mainly composed of two novel LL ecotypes (termed LL-V and LL-VI), which correspond to basal groups linking Prochlorococcus with marine Synechococcus (Lavin et al.
A STIM2 splice variant negatively regulates store-operated calcium entry
Authors: Miederer Anna-Maria , Alansary Dalia , Schwär Gertrud , Lee Po-Hsien , Jung Martin , Helms Volkhard , Niemeyer Barbara A.
Published: April 2015

Cellular homeostasis relies upon precise regulation of Ca2+ concentration. Stromal interaction molecule (STIM) proteins regulate store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) by sensing Ca2+ concentration in the ER and forming oligomers to trigger Ca2+ entry through plasma membrane-localized Orai1 channels. Here we characterize a STIM2 splice variant, STIM2.1, which retains an additional exon within the region encoding the channel-activating domain. Expression of STIM2.1 is ubiquitous but its abundance relative to the more common STIM2.2 variant is dependent upon cell type and highest in naive T cells. STIM2.1 knockdown increases SOCE in naive CD4+ T cells, whereas knockdown of STIM2.2 decreases SOCE. Conversely, overexpression of STIM2.1, but not STIM2.2, decreases SOCE, indicating its inhibitory role. STIM2.1 interaction with Orai1 is impaired and prevents Orai1 activation, but STIM2.1 shows increased affinity towards calmodulin. Our results imply STIM2.1 as an additional player tuning Orai1 activation in vivo.
Supramolecular-jack-like guest in ultramicroporous crystal for exceptional thermal expansion behaviour
Authors: Zhou Hao-Long , Zhang Yue-Biao , Zhang Jie-Peng , Chen Xiao-Ming
Published: April 2015

The dynamic behaviours of host frameworks and guest molecules have received much attention for their great relevance with smart materials, but little has been developed to control or understand the host–guest interplay. Here we show that the confined guest can utilize not only molecular static effects but also bulk dynamic properties to control the host dynamics. By virtue of the three-dimensional hinge-like framework and quasi-discrete ultramicropores, a flexible porous coordination polymer exhibits not only drastic guest-modulation effect of the thermal expansion magnitude (up to 422 × 10−6 K−1) and even the anisotropy but also records positive/negative thermal expansion coefficients of +482/−218 × 10−6 K−1. Moreover, single-crystal X-ray diffraction analyses demonstrate that the jack-like motion of the guest supramolecular dimers, being analogous to the anisotropic thermal expansion of bulk van der Waals solids, is crucial for changing the flexibility mode and thermal expansion behaviour of the crystal.
Deciphering the Venomic Transcriptome of Killer-Wasp Vespa velutina
Authors: Liu Zhirui , Chen Shuanggang , Zhou You , Xie Cuihong , Zhu Bifeng , Zhu Huming , Liu Shupeng , Wang Wei , Chen Hongzhuan , Ji Yonghua
Published: April 2015

Wasp stings have been arising to be a severe public health problem in China in recent years. However, molecular information about lethal or toxic factors in wasp venom is extremely lacking. In this study, we used two pyrosequencing platforms to analyze the transcriptome of Vespa velutina, the most common wasp species native in China. Besides the substantial amount of transcripts encoding for allergens usually regarded as the major lethal factor of wasp sting, a greater abundance of hemostasis-impairing toxins and neurotoxins in the venom of V. velutina were identified, implying that toxic reactions and allergic effects are envenoming strategy for the dangerous outcomes. The pattern of differentially expressed genes before and after venom extraction clearly indicates that the manifestation of V. velutina stings depends on subtle regulations in the metabolic pathway required for toxin recruitment. This comparative analysis offers timely clues for developing clinical treatments for wasp envenoming in China and around the world.
Structural basis for cooperative oxygen binding and bracelet-assisted assembly of Lumbricus terrestris hemoglobin
Authors: Chen Wei-Ting , Chen Yu-Chuen , Liou Horng-Huei , Chao Chih-Yu
Published: April 2015

The iron-containing hemoglobins (Hbs) are essential proteins to serve as oxygen transporters in the blood. Among various kinds of Hbs, the earthworm Hbs are the champions in carrying oxygen due to not only their large size but also the unusually high cooperativity of ligand binding. However, the cooperative oxygen binding mechanisms are still mostly unknown. Here we report the cryo-electron microscopy structure of Lumbricus terrestris Hb in its native, oxygenated state at 9.1 Å resolution, showing remarkable differences from the carbon monoxide-binding X-ray structure. Our structural analysis first indicates that the cooperative ligand binding of L. terrestris Hb requires tertiary and quaternary transitions in the heme pocket and a global subunit movement facilitated by intra-ring and inter-ring contacts. Moreover, the additional sinusoidal bracelet provides the confirmation for the long-standing debate about the additional electron densities absent in the X-ray crystal structure.
Aerosol-spray diverse mesoporous metal oxides from metal nitrates
Authors: Kuai Long , Wang Junxin , Ming Tian , Fang Caihong , Sun Zhenhua , Geng Baoyou , Wang Jianfang
Published: April 2015

Transition metal oxides are widely used in solar cells, batteries, transistors, memories, transparent conductive electrodes, photocatalysts, gas sensors, supercapacitors and smart windows. In many of these applications, large surface areas and pore volumes can enhance molecular adsorption, facilitate ion transfer and increase interfacial areas; the formation of complex oxides (mixed, doped, multimetallic oxides and oxide-based hybrids) can alter electronic band structures, modify/enhance charge carrier concentrations/separation and introduce desired functionalities. A general synthetic approach to diverse mesoporous metal oxides is therefore very attractive. Here we describe a powerful aerosol-spray method for synthesizing various mesoporous metal oxides from low-cost nitrate salts. During spray, thermal heating of precursor droplets drives solvent evaporation and induces surfactant-directed formation of mesostructures, nitrate decomposition and oxide cross-linking. Thirteen types of monometallic oxides and four groups of complex ones are successfully produced, with mesoporous iron oxide microspheres demonstrated for photocatalytic oxygen evolution and gas sensing with superior performances.
Dynamic Distribution of the Gut Microbiota and the Relationship with Apparent Crude Fiber Digestibility and Growth Stages in Pigs
Authors: Niu Qing , Li Pinghua , Hao Shuaishuai , Zhang Yeqiu , Kim Sung Woo , Li Huizhi , Ma Xiang , Gao Shuo , He Lichun , Wu WangJun , Huang Xuegen , Hua Jindi , Zhou Bo , Huang Ruihua
Published: April 2015

The gut microbiota plays an important role in nutrient digestibility in animals. To examine changes in the pig gut microbiota across growth stages and its effects on nutrient digestion, the gut microbiota population in pigs at 28 days (before weaning) and 60, 90 and 150 days of age was assessed by 16S rDNA gene sequencing. The apparent digestibility of crude fiber (CF), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), crude protein (CP) and ether extract (EE) was also assessed in these pigs. A total of 19,875 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were identified from all samples. Both bacterial abundance and diversity increased with age. A total of 22 phyla and 249 genera were identified from all fecal samples; Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes were the most dominant phyla in all samples. With increasing age, the proportion of TM7 and Tenericutes increased, whereas the proportion of Lentisphaerae and Synergistetes decreased. The abundance of 36 genera varied with age and the apparent digestibility of CF increased with age. Three phyla, Proteobacteria, Tenericutes and TM7 and 11 genera, including Anaeroplasma, Campylobacter and Clostridium, were correlated with apparent CF digestibility.
Ballistic bipolar junctions in chemically gated graphene ribbons
Authors: Baringhaus Jens , Stöhr Alexander , Forti Stiven , Starke Ulrich , Tegenkamp Christoph
Published: April 2015

The realization of ballistic graphene pn-junctions is an essential task in order to study Klein tunneling phenomena. Here we show that intercalation of Ge under the buffer layer of pre-structured SiC-samples succeeds to make truly nano-scaled pn-junctions. By means of local tunneling spectroscopy the junction width is found to be as narrow as 5 nm which is a hundred times smaller compared to electrically gated structures. The ballistic transmission across the junction is directly proven by systematic transport measurements with a 4-tip STM. Various npn- and pnp-junctions are studied with respect to the barrier length. The pn-junctions are shown to act as polarizer and analyzer with the second junction becoming transparent in case of a fully ballistic barrier. This can be attributed to the almost full suppression of electron transmission through the junction away from normal incidence.
Combined inhibition of AKT/mTOR and MDM2 enhances Glioblastoma Multiforme cell apoptosis and differentiation of cancer stem cells
Authors: Daniele Simona , Costa Barbara , Zappelli Elisa , Da Pozzo Eleonora , Sestito Simona , Nesi Giulia , Campiglia Pietro , Marinelli Luciana , Novellino Ettore , Rapposelli Simona , Martini Claudia
Published: April 2015

The poor prognosis of Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) is due to a high resistance to conventional treatments and to the presence of a subpopulation of glioma stem cells (GSCs). Combination therapies targeting survival/self-renewal signals of GBM and GSCs are emerging as useful tools to improve GBM treatment. In this context, the hyperactivated AKT/mammalian target of the rapamycin (AKT/mTOR) and the inhibited wild-type p53 appear to be good candidates. Herein, the interaction between these pathways was investigated, using the novel AKT/mTOR inhibitor FC85 and ISA27, which re-activates p53 functionality by blocking its endogenous inhibitor murine double minute 2 homologue (MDM2). In GBM cells, FC85 efficiently inhibited AKT/mTOR signalling and reactivated p53 functionality, triggering cellular apoptosis. The combined therapy with ISA27 produced a synergic effect on the inhibition of cell viability and on the reactivation of p53 pathway. Most importantly, FC85 and ISA27 blocked proliferation and promoted the differentiation of GSCs. The simultaneous use of these compounds significantly enhanced GSC differentiation/apoptosis. These findings suggest that FC85 actively enhances the downstream p53 signalling and that a combination strategy aimed at inhibiting the AKT/mTOR pathway and re-activating p53 signalling is potentially effective in GBM and in GSCs.
Synthesis of fluorenones by using Pd(ii)/Mg–La mixed oxide catalyst
Authors: Kishore Ramineni , Shanthi Priya Samudrala , Sudhakar Medak , Venu Boosa , Venugopal Akula , Yadav Jagjit , Kantam Mannepalli Lakshmi
Published: April 2015

Palladium(ii)/magnesium–lanthanum mixed oxide (Pd(ii)/Mg–La mixed oxide) catalyst was used in the dehydrogenative cyclization of benzophenones to afford fluorenones.
Graphene as an anti-corrosion coating layer
Authors: Kyhl Line , Nielsen Sune Fuglsang , Čabo Antonija Grubišić , Cassidy Andrew , Miwa Jill A. , Hornekær Liv
Published: April 2015

Graphene, a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in an aromatic hexagonal lattice, has recently drawn attention as a potential coating material due to its impermeability, thermodynamic stability, transparency and flexibility. Here, the effectiveness of a model system, a graphene covered Pt(100) surface, for studying the anti-corrosion properties of graphene, has been evaluated. Chemical vapour deposition techniques were used to cover the single crystal surface with a complete layer of high-quality graphene and the surface was characterised after exposure to corrosive environments with scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM) and Raman spectroscopy. Graphene covered Pt samples were exposed to: (i) ambient atmosphere for 6 months at room temperature and 60 °C for 75 min, (ii) Milli-Q water for 14 hours at room temperature and 60 °C for 75 min, and (iii) saltwater (0.513 M NaCl) for 75 min at room temperature and 60 °C. STM provides atomic resolution images, which show that the graphene layer and the underlying surface reconstruction on the Pt(100) surface remain intact over the majority of the surface under all conditions, except exposure to saltwater when the sample is kept at 60 °C. Raman spectroscopy shows a broadening of all graphene related peaks due to hybridisation between the surface Pt d-orbitals and the graphene π-bands. This hybridisation also survives exposure to all environments except saltwater on the hot surface, with the latter leading to peaks more representative of a quasi free-standing graphene layer. A mechanism explaining the corrosive effect of hot saltwater is suggested. Based on these experiments, graphene is proposed to offer protection against corrosion in all tested environments, except saltwater on a hot surface, and Raman spectroscopy is proposed as a useful method for indirectly assessing the chemical state of the Pt surface.
Effects of different functional groups on metastatic behavior of SPC-A-1/human lung cancer cells in self-assembled monolayers
Authors: Zheng Guan , Li Lihua , Li Mei , Feng Xinglong , Pu Xiaobing , Zhang Baoliang , Yu Peng , He Guanping , Zhang Yu , Xia Hong
Published: April 2015

Self-assembled monolayers terminated with different functional groups were used to explore their effects on the metastatic behaviors of human lung cancer cells (SPC-A-1) in vitro. The addition of –SH group has potential applications for lung cancer metastasis therapy.
Biocatalytic one-pot three-component synthesis of 3,3′-disubstituted oxindoles and spirooxindole pyrans using α-amylase from hog pancreas
Authors: He Tao , Zeng Qing-Qing , Yang Da-Cheng , He Yan-Hong , Guan Zhi
Published: April 2015

α-Amylase from hog pancreas displayed catalytic promiscuity in three-component reaction for the synthesis of 3,3′-disubstituted oxindoles and spirooxindole pyrans.
Use of herbs, spices and their bioactive compounds in active food packaging
Authors: Valdés A. , Mellinas A. C. , Ramos M. , Burgos N. , Jiménez A. , Garrigós M. C.
Published: April 2015

Natural additives obtained from herbs and spices are being increasingly used in the food packaging industry.
A natural quercetin-based fluorescent sensor for highly sensitive and selective detection of copper ions
Authors: Yang Shilong , Yin Bin , Xu Li , Gao Buhong , Sun Haijun , Du Liting , Tang Ying , Jiang Weina , Cao Fuliang
Published: April 2015

A natural quercetin-based fluorescent sensor for highly sensitive and selective detection of copper ions has been studied.
Detection of PETN and RDX using a FRET-based fluorescence sensor system
Authors: Ganiga Manjunatha , Cyriac Jobin
Published: April 2015

A FRET-based CdS QD sensor for selective detection of explosives PETN and RDX.
A luminescent cyclometalated gold(iii)–avidin conjugate with a long-lived emissive excited state that binds to proteins and DNA and possesses anti-proliferation capacity
Authors: Tsai Johnson Lui-Lui , Chan Anna On-Yee , Che Chi-Ming
Published: April 2015

Here we describe a luminescent cyclometalated Au(iii)–avidin conjugate that exhibits a 520 nm emission with a lifetime of 1.8 μs in PBS solution in open air.
A sensitive colorimetric strategy for monitoring cerebral β-amyloid peptides in AD based on dual-functionalized gold nanoplasmonic particles
Authors: Yu Yan-yan , Zhang Lin , Sun Xiao-yu , Li Cheng-lin , Qiu Yu , Sun Hao-peng , Tang Dao-quan , Liu Yao-wu , Yin Xiao-xing
Published: April 2015

A sensitive colorimetric probe based on GNPs was designed and applied to Aβ determination.
The role of Mott–Schottky heterojunctions in PtCo–Cu2ZnGeS4 as counter electrodes in dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Huang Shoushuang , He Qingquan , Zai Jiantao , Wang Min , Li Xiaomin , Li Bo , Qian Xuefeng
Published: April 2015

Metastable wurtzstannite Cu2ZnGeS4 (CZGS) nanocrystals were synthesized via a hot-injection method and then used as matrixes to fabricate PtCo–CZGS heterostructured nano-particles.
A structure-directing method to prepare semiconductive zeolitic cluster–organic frameworks with Cu3I4 building units
Authors: Kang Yao , Fang Wei-Hui , Zhang Lei , Zhang Jian
Published: April 2015

Cu3I4 cluster based zeolitic frameworks with SOD topology have been successfully prepared using an organic structure-directing agent method.
Synthesis and biological evaluation of pharbinilic acid and derivatives as NF-κB pathway inhibitors
Authors: Annand J. R. , Bruno P. A. , Mapp A. K. , Schindler C. S.
Published: April 2015

A 7-step synthesis of pharbinilic acid, a member of the gibberellin family of natural products and the first naturally occurring allogibberic acid, is reported.
Correction: A new chiral C1-symmetric NHC-catalyzed addition to α-aryl substituted α,β-disubstituted enals: enantioselective synthesis of fully functionalized dihydropyranones
Authors: Lu Hong , Liu Jin-Yu , Li Chen-Guang , Lin Jun-Bing , Liang Yong-Min , Xu Peng-Fei
Published: April 2015

Correction for ‘A new chiral C1-symmetric NHC-catalyzed addition to α-aryl substituted α,β-disubstituted enals: enantioselective synthesis of fully functionalized dihydropyranones’ by Hong Lu et al., Chem. Commun., 2015, 51, 4473–4476.
Investigation into solid and solution properties of quinizarin
Authors: Cheuk Dominic , Svärd Michael , Seaton Colin , McArdle Patrick , Rasmuson Åke C.
Published: April 2015

Polymorphism, crystal shape and solubility of 1,4-dihydroxyanthraquinone (quinizarin) have been investigated in acetic acid, acetone, acetonitrile, n-butanol and toluene.
Thermodynamics by synchrotron X-ray diffraction: phase relationships and crystal structure ofl-tyrosine ethyl ester form III
Authors: Nicolaï Béatrice , Itié Jean-Paul , Barrio Maria , Tamarit Josep-Lluìs , Rietveld Ivo B.
Published: April 2015

Structure, transition enthalpy and equilibrium curve were obtained by X-ray diffraction for the commercial form and a new crystalline high-pressure form.
Gas-phase chemistry of technetium carbonyl complexes
Authors: Wang Yang , Qin Zhi , Fan Fang-Li , Haba Hiromitsu , Komori Yukiko , Cao Shi-Wei , Wu Xiao-Lei , Tan Cun-Min
Published: April 2015

Relative chemical yields and adsorption enthalpies on quartz and Teflon surfaces for short-lived Tc carbonyl complexes were obtained.
Study on the one-pot oxidative esterification of glycerol with MOF supported polyoxometalates as catalyst
Authors: Zhu Jie , Wang Peng-cheng , Lu Ming
Published: April 2015

One-pot oxidative esterification of glycerol was achieved with MOF supported polyoxometalates as a catalyst.
An experimental-computer modeling study of inorganic phosphates surface adsorption on hydroxyapatite particles
Authors: Rivas Manuel , Casanovas Jordi , del Valle Luis J. , Bertran Oscar , Revilla-López Guillermo , Turon Pau , Puiggalí Jordi , Alemán Carlos
Published: April 2015

The adsorption of different phosphates and a triphosphonate onto hydroxyapatite has been highlighted combining experiments and theoretical calculations.
Stable and color tunable emission properties based on non-cyclometalated gold(iii) complexes
Authors: Bachmann Michael , Blacque Olivier , Venkatesan Koushik
Published: April 2015

Room temperature phosphorescence based on non-cyclometalated gold(iii) complexes with readily tunable emission properties is demonstrated.
Highly active chromium(iii) complexes based on tridentate pyrazolyl pyridyl ligands for ethylene polymerization and oligomerization
Authors: Park Jong-Eun , Kang Sung Kwon , Woo Jeong Oh , Son Kyung-sun
Published: April 2015

A series of new chromium(iii) complexes bearing tridentate pyrazolyl pyridyl ligands were synthesized, characterized, and investigated as precatalysts for ethylene polymerization and oligomerization.
Straightforward synthesis of radioiodinated Cc-substituted o-carboranes: towards a versatile platform to enable the in vivo assessment of BNCT drug candidates
Authors: Gona K. B. , Thota J. L. V. N. P. , Baz Z. , Gómez-Vallejo V. , Llop J.
Published: April 2015

An efficient method for the preparation of mono-[125I]- and [131I]-iodinated o-carborane derivatives is reported.
Synthesis of copper ion incorporated horseradish peroxidase-based hybrid nanoflowers for enhanced catalytic activity and stability
Authors: Somturk Burcu , Hancer Mehmet , Ocsoy Ismail , Özdemir Nalan
Published: April 2015

Hybrid nanoflowers (hNFs) consisting of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) enzyme and copper ions (Cu2+) with dramatically enhanced catalytic activity and stability.
Direct observation of an inhomogeneous chlorine distribution in CH3NH3PbI3−xClxlayers: surface depletion and interface enrichment
Authors: Starr David E. , Sadoughi Golnaz , Handick Evelyn , Wilks Regan G. , Alsmeier Jan H. , Köhler Leonard , Gorgoi Mihaela , Snaith Henry J. , Bär Marcus
Published: April 2015

X-ray spectroscopies have shown a higher chlorine concentration near the perovskite/TiO2interface than throughout the rest of the perovskite film.
The potential effects of phytoplankton on the occurrence of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in water from Lake Taihu, China
Authors: Zhao Zhonghua , Zhang Lu , Deng Jianming , Wu Jinglu
Published: April 2015

Seasonal distribution of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and their possible interactions with phytoplankton species in water from Lake Taihu were investigated.
Analysis of serpentine polymorphs in investigations of natural occurrences of asbestos
Authors: Wagner Jeff
Published: April 2015

Transmission and scanning electron microscopy were employed to address analytical issues for environmental investigations of intergrown serpentine fibers in natural occurrences of asbestos (NOA).
Phosphorus recovery from urine and anaerobic digester filtrate: comparison of adsorption–precipitation with direct precipitation
Authors: O'Neal Jeremy A. , Boyer Treavor H.
Published: April 2015

High phosphate recovery from urineviaadsorption to hybrid anion exchange resin, resin regeneration, and chemical addition and precipitation.
Pitting of steam-generator tubing alloys in solutions containing thiosulfate and sulfate or chloride
Authors: Zhang William , Carcea Anatolie G. , Newman Roger C.
Published: April 2015

The pitting of nuclear steam generator tubing alloys 600, 690 and 800 was studied at 60 °C using dilute thiosulfate solutions containing excess sulfate or (for Alloy 600) chloride. A potentiostatic scratch method was used. In sulfate solutions, all alloys pitted at low potentials, reflecting their lack of protective Mo. The alloys demonstrated the most severe pitting at a sulfate : thiosulfate concentration ratio of ∼40. Alloy 600 pitted worst at a chloride : thiosulfate ratio of ∼2000. The results are interpreted through the mutual electromigration of differently charged anions into a pit nucleus, and differences in the major alloy component.