bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Translational and rotational motion control of microgels enabling shoaling and schooling
Authors: Kim You-Jin , Lee Jonghwi
Published: December 2014

A novel technique of unrestricted flow control was developed using microgels with an anisotropic distribution of SPIONs, biomimicking the flow generated by a school of fish.
Ultrathin-nanosheet-based 3D hierarchical porous In2S3 microspheres: chemical transformation synthesis, characterization, and enhanced photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical property
Authors: Wu Rui , Xu You , Xu Rui , Huang Yi , Zhang Bin
Published: December 2014

Ultrathin-nanosheet-based 3D hierarchical In2S3 with enhanced photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical performance was synthesized via an organic component depletion method with inorganic–organic hybrids as precursors.
Functional thin film coatings incorporating gold nanoparticles in a transparent conducting fluorine doped tin oxide matrix
Authors: Chew Clair K. T. , Salcianu Carmen , Bishop Peter , Carmalt Claire J. , Parkin Ivan P.
Published: December 2014

SnO2 with transparent conducting character have been enhanced with the plasmonic properties of gold nanoparticles using chemical vapour deposition.
DUBs, the regulation of cell identity and disease
Authors: Heideker Johanna , Wertz Ingrid E.
Published: December 2014

The post-translational modification of proteins with ubiquitin represents a complex signalling system that co-ordinates essential cellular functions, including proteolysis, DNA repair, receptor signalling and cell communication. DUBs (deubiquitinases), the enzymes that disassemble ubiquitin chains and remove ubiquitin from proteins, are central to this system. Reflecting the complexity and versatility of ubiquitin signalling, DUB activity is controlled in multiple ways. Although several lines of evidence indicate that aberrant DUB function may promote human disease, the underlying molecular mechanisms are often unclear. Notwithstanding, considerable interest in DUBs as potential drug targets has emerged over the past years. The future success of DUB-based therapy development will require connecting the basic science of DUB function and enzymology with drug discovery. In the present review, we discuss new insights into DUB activity regulation and their links to disease, focusing on the role of DUBs as regulators of cell identity and differentiation, and discuss their potential as emerging drug targets.
Effect of adding DC‐offset estimation integrators in there‐phase enhanced phase‐locked loop on dynamic performance and alternative scheme
Authors: Wu Fengjiang , Zhang Lujie , Duan Jiandong
Published: December 2014

Three‐phase enhanced phase‐locked loop (3P‐EPLL) can estimate the amplitude, frequency and phase angle of the positive sequence of the three‐phase inputs without using a synchronous reference frame. However, the presence of DC offsets in the inputs of the conventional 3P‐EPLL introduces a periodic ripple in the estimated information. Thus, DC‐offset estimation integrators (DCEIs) to estimate and feedback the DC component as an error signal are introduced in 3P‐EPLL to eliminate the disturbance. This study presents a comprehensive study of the transient performance of 3P‐EPLL with DCEIs, proving that a worse and longer dynamic period is caused by the coupling of the frequency and amplitude loop resulted from DCEI. Further, a hybrid filtering 3P‐EPLL based on delayed‐signal cancellation to reject the DC component and sliding Goertzel transform‐based filter to eliminate the effect of harmonics and unbalanced inputs is proposed. Thus, a correct estimation is achieved even under unbalanced inputs with both DC and harmonic components. A set of detailed experiments of the former three enhanced phase‐locked loops (EPLLs) are presented to display the deficit of the conventional EPLLs and better performance of the proposed scheme.
Cell capacitor sizing in multilevel converters: cases of the modular multilevel converter and alternate arm converter
Authors: Merlin Michaël M. C. , Green Tim C.
Published: December 2014

Multilevel converters, such as the modular multilevel converter (MMC) or the alternate arm converter (AAC), rely on charged capacitors in their cells to generate their AC voltage waveform. Since the cell capacitors are physically large and occupy approximately half the cell volume, their capacitance must be kept minimal while limiting the voltage fluctuation caused by the current passing periodically through these capacitors. This study proposes a mathematical model which estimates the energy deviation for the stacks of both the MMC and the AAC during steady‐state operation under any power factor and for AC voltage magnitude fluctuation of up to ±10%. The analysis is then used to calculate the minimum size for the cell capacitors in order to keep their voltage fluctuation within set boundaries for both topologies. The results show that the MMC requires 39 kJ/MVA of capacitive energy storage under sinusoidal modulation but this reduces with triplen injection modulation. The AAC has a lower requirement for storage in its cells of 11 kJ/MVA but the AAC has a six‐pulse DC current ripple which requires a filter estimated to have a further 33% capacitive storage.
Improvement on voltage gain for KY converter
Authors: Hwu Kuo‐Ing , Jiang Wen‐Zhuang
Published: December 2014

A novel step‐up converter, which combines a KY converter, which is named after the first capitals of two authors’ names: Hwu and Yau, a traditional synchronously rectified (SR) boost converter, and a coupled inductor with turns ratio, is presented in this study. In this converter, these two combined converters use the same switches. Also, since the proposed converter possesses an output inductor, the output current is non‐pulsating because of synchronous rectification. Moreover, the corresponding voltage gain is greater than those of the traditional boost converter and the existing converters with output inductors. Furthermore, part of the leakage inductance energy can be recycled to the output capacitor of the SR boost converter. Therefore such a converter is very suitable for low‐ripple applications. In addition, this converter is driven using only one half‐bridge gate driver. Finally, mathematical deductions and an experimental setup with 12 V input voltage, 72 V output voltage and 60 W output power are used to verify the effectiveness of the proposed converter.
Trans‐Z‐source and Γ‐Z‐source neutral‐point‐clamped inverters
Authors: Mo Wei , Loh Poh Chiang , Blaabjerg Frede , Wang Peng
Published: December 2014

Z‐source neutral‐point‐clamped (NPC) inverters are earlier proposed for obtaining voltage buck–boost and three‐level switching simultaneously. Their performances are, however, constrained by a trade‐off between their input‐to‐output gain and modulation ratio. This trade‐off can lead to high‐voltage stress across the inverter bridge and poor output voltage spectrum. As alternatives with improved performances, two transformer‐based Z‐source NPC inverters are proposed, whose gain can be adjusted by varying the transformer turns ratio, and is hence less dependent on the inverter modulation ratio. Limitations faced by the earlier Z‐source NPC inverters are therefore avoided by the proposed inverters, as demonstrated through experiments.
Computer-Aided Surgery Does Not Increase the Accuracy of Dorsal Pedicle Screw Placement in the Thoracic and Lumbar Spine: A Retrospective Analysis of 2,003 Pedicle Screws in a Level I Trauma Center
Authors: Kraus Michael , Weiskopf Julia , Dreyhaupt Jens , Krischak Gert , Gebhard Florian
Published: December 2014

Study Design

A retrospective analysis of a prospective database.

Objective

Meta-analyses suggest that computer-assisted systems can increase the accuracy of pedicle screw placement for dorsal spinal fusion procedures. The results of further meta-analyses report that in the thoracic spine, both the methods have comparable placement accuracy. These studies are limited due to an abundance of screw classification systems. The aim of this study was to assess the placement accuracy and potentially influencing factors of three-dimensionally navigated versus conventionally inserted pedicle screws.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of a prospective database at a level I trauma center of pedicle screw placement (computer-navigated versus traditionally placed) for dorsal spinal stabilizations. The cases spanned a 5.5-year study period (January 1, 2005, to June 30, 2010). The perforations of the pedicle were differentiated in three grades based on the postoperative computed tomography.

Results

The overall placement accuracy was 86% in the conventional group versus 79% in the computer-navigated group (grade 0). The computer-navigated procedures were superior in the lumbar spine and the conventional procedures were superior in the thoracic spine, but both failed to be of statistical significance. The level of experience of the performing surgeon and the patient's body mass index did not influence the placement accuracy. The only significant influence was the spinal segment: the higher the spinal level where the fusion was performed, the more likely the screw was displaced.

Conclusions

The computer-navigated and conventional methods are both safe procedures to place transpedicular screws at the traumatized thoracic and lumbar spine. At the moment, three-dimensionally based navigation does not significantly increase the placement accuracy.
Efficient field-theoretic simulation of polymer solutions
Authors: Villet Michael C. , Fredrickson Glenn H.
Published: December 2014

We present several developments that facilitate the efficient field-theoretic simulation of polymers by complex Langevin sampling. A regularization scheme using finite Gaussian excluded volume interactions is used to derive a polymer solution model that appears free of ultraviolet divergences and hence is well-suited for lattice-discretized field theoretic simulation. We show that such models can exhibit ultraviolet sensitivity, a numerical pathology that dramatically increases sampling error in the continuum lattice limit, and further show that this pathology can be eliminated by appropriate model reformulation by variable transformation. We present an exponential time differencing algorithm for integrating complex Langevin equations for field theoretic simulation, and show that the algorithm exhibits excellent accuracy and stability properties for our regularized polymer model. These developments collectively enable substantially more efficient field-theoretic simulation of polymers, and illustrate the importance of simultaneously addressing analytical and numerical pathologies when implementing such computations.
Smart monitoring system based on adaptive current control for superconducting cable test
Authors: Arpaia Pasquale , Ballarino Amalia , Daponte Vincenzo , Montenero Giuseppe , Svelto Cesare
Published: December 2014

A smart monitoring system for superconducting cable test is proposed with an adaptive current control of a superconducting transformer secondary. The design, based on Fuzzy Gain Scheduling, allows the controller parameters to adapt continuously, and finely, to the working variations arising from transformer nonlinear dynamics. The control system is integrated in a fully digital control loop, with all the related benefits, i.e., high noise rejection, ease of implementation/modification, and so on. In particular, an accurate model of the system, controlled by a Fuzzy Gain Scheduler of the superconducting transformer, was achieved by an experimental campaign through the working domain at several current ramp rates. The model performance was characterized by simulation, under all the main operating conditions, in order to guide the controller design. Finally, the proposed monitoring system was experimentally validated at European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) in comparison to the state-of-the-art control system [P. Arpaia, L. Bottura, G. Montenero, and S. Le Naour, “Performance improvement of a measurement station for superconducting cable test,” Rev. Sci. Instrum. 83, 095111 (2012)] of the Facility for the Research on Superconducting Cables, achieving a significant performance improvement: a reduction in the system overshoot by 50%, with a related attenuation of the corresponding dynamic residual error (both absolute and RMS) up to 52%.
Quantum interference in polyenes
Authors: Tsuji Yuta , Hoffmann Roald , Movassagh Ramis , Datta Supriyo
Published: December 2014

The explicit form of the zeroth Green's function in the Hückel model, approximated by the negative of the inverse of the Hückel matrix, has direct quantum interference consequences for molecular conductance. We derive a set of rules for transmission between two electrodes attached to a polyene, when the molecule is extended by an even number of carbons at either end (transmission unchanged) or by an odd number of carbons at both ends (transmission turned on or annihilated). These prescriptions for the occurrence of quantum interference lead to an unexpected consequence for switches which realize such extension through electrocyclic reactions: for some specific attachment modes the chemically closed ring will be the ON position of the switch. Normally the signs of the entries of the Green's function matrix are assumed to have no physical significance; however, we show that the signs may have observable consequences. In particular, in the case of multiple probe attachments – if coherence in probe connections can be arranged – in some cases new destructive interference results, while in others one may have constructive interference. One such case may already exist in the literature.
Experimental and numerical study of buoyancy-driven single bubble dynamics in a vertical Hele-Shaw cell
Authors: Wang Xue , Klaasen Bart , Degrève Jan , Blanpain Bart , Verhaeghe Frederik
Published: December 2014

Buoyancy-driven single bubble behaviour in a vertical Hele-Shaw cell with various gap Reynolds numbers Re(h/d)2 has been studied. Two gap thicknesses, h = 0.5 mm (Re(h/d)2 = 1.0–8.5) and 1 mm (Re(h/d)2 = 6.0–50) were used to represent low and high gap Reynolds number flow. Periodic shape oscillation and path vibration were observed once the gap Reynolds number exceeds the critical value of 8.5. The bubble behaviour was also numerically simulated by taking a two-dimensional volume of fluid method coupled with a continuum surface force model and a wall friction model in the commercial computational fluid dynamics package Fluent. By adjusting the viscous resistance values, the bubble dynamics in the two gap thicknesses can be simulated. For the main flow properties including shape, path, terminal velocity, horizontal vibration, and shape oscillation, good agreement is obtained between experiment and simulation. The estimated terminal velocity is 10%–50% higher than the observed one when the bubble diameter d ≤ 5 mm, h = 0.5 mm and 9% higher when d ≤ 18 mm, h = 1.0 mm. The estimated oscillation frequency is 50% higher than the observed value. Three-dimensional effects and spurious vortices are most likely the reason for this inaccuracy. The simulation confirms that the thin liquid films between gas bubbles and the cell walls have a limited effect on the bubble dynamics.
The Tremblay-Turbiner-Winternitz system as extended Hamiltonian
Authors: Chanu Claudia Maria , Degiovanni Luca , Rastelli Giovanni
Published: December 2014

We generalize the idea of “extension of Hamiltonian systems”—developed in a series of previous articles—which allows the explicit construction of Hamiltonian systems with additional non-trivial polynomial first integrals of arbitrarily high degree, as well as the determination of new superintegrable systems from old ones. The present generalization, that we call “modified extension of Hamiltonian systems,” produces the third independent first integral for the (complete) Tremblay-Turbiner-Winternitz system, as well as for the caged anisotropic oscillator in dimension two.
Local symmetry lowering in CdMn2O4 spinel
Authors: Oliveira G. N. P. , Teixeira R. , Mendonça T. M. , Silva M. R. , Correia J. G. , Lopes A. M. L. , Araújo J. P.
Published: December 2014

This work presents an atomic scale study of the electric field gradient (EFG) in the tetragonally distorted CdMn2O4 spinel manganite. The EFG temperature dependence at the Cd and Mn sites was followed via perturbed angular correlation measurements with the 111In and 111mCd probes, from 873 down to 12 K at Isolde-CERN. The results show that in the 12–600 K temperature range, a single Jahn-Teller distorted local phase exists. However above 100 K, a dynamic lattice distortion, evidenced by time dependent EFG fluctuations, sets in suggesting a structural instability. Above 600 K, a local MnO6 octahedra with relaxed Jahn-Teller distortions emerge and grow in the low temperature matrix, although no macroscopic tetragonal to cubic phase transition was observed.
Measuring the depth profiles of strain/composition in AlGaN-graded layer by high-resolution x-ray diffraction
Authors: Kuchuk A. V. , Stanchu H. V. , Li Chen , Ware M. E. , Mazur Yu. I. , Kladko V. P. , Belyaev A. E. , Salamo G. J.
Published: December 2014

Here, we demonstrate X-ray fitting through kinematical simulations of the intensity profiles of symmetric reflections for epitaxial compositionally graded layers of AlGaN grown by molecular beam epitaxy pseudomorphically on [0001]-oriented GaN substrates. These detailed simulations depict obvious differences between changes in thickness, maximum concentration, and concentration profile of the graded layers. Through comparison of these simulations with as-grown samples, we can reliably determine these parameters, most important of which are the profiles of the concentration and strain which determine much of the electrical properties of the film. In addition to learning about these parameters for the characterization of thin film properties, these fitting techniques create opportunities to calibrate growth rates and control composition profiles of AlGaN layers with a single growth rather than multiple growths as has been done traditionally.
Acceleration of neutrals in a nanosecond laser produced nickel plasma
Authors: Smijesh N. , Chandrasekharan K. , Philip Reji
Published: December 2014

Time of flight dynamics of slow neutrals, fast neutrals, and ions from a nanosecond laser produced nickel (Ni) plasma are investigated. Species arrival times confirm the hypothesis that fast neutrals are formed by the recombination of fast ions with free electrons. Both neutrals and ions are found to accelerate for a short interval immediately after ablation, which is attributed to internal Coulomb forces which create electrostatic potentials resulting in the charged particle acceleration. This process is further enhanced by laser-plasma energy coupling. Emission from neutrals could be measured for longer axial distances in the plume compared to that of ions confirming that the ions recombine to form neutrals as they move away from the target surface.
Collaborative communication networks: an application in Indonesia.
Authors: Pennington-Gray L. , Cahyanto I. , Schroeder A. , Kesper A.
Published: December 2014

This chapter argues that because tourism comprises multiple stakeholders, it is critical that crisis management for the tourism industry is integrated with other organizations, government departments, emergency personnel, media and other stakeholders. After providing a discussion of potential collaboration theories, it provides a working example of collaborative communication networks that have been created in Indonesia as a response to the need to address communication issues during and after a disaster. There are two tangible programmes in Indonesia that involve a collaborative communication process in tourism. The first programme is the Bali Hotels Security and Safety Radio (BHSSR), whereby the hotel sector has access to very high frequency radios used by the Bali police force in order to receive information surrounding crises. The second programme is the Bali Hotels Association Multi-Purpose Tsunami Early Warning and Emergency Short Message Service (SMS) System.
Influence of the Global Financial Crisis (GFC) on the Chinese outbound travel market: a case study of the Shanghai regional market.
Authors: Ma E. , Zhang Yan Zhang Yan , Qu HaiLin Qu HaiLin
Published: December 2014

By learning from the influence of the GFC on the Chinese outbound travel market using a case study of the Shanghai regional market, this chapter notes that tourists from Shanghai have been surprisingly resilient to the GFC. The expenditure intention of potential outbound tourists from Shanghai indicated that the majority of tourists would not reduce their travel expenditure during the GFC. In fact, quite a large percentage of them would increase their spending, particularly in leisure, recreation and shopping. The implication is that, even during the GFC, Shanghai residents' outbound travel need is still strong and robust. Shanghai tourists' need for and motivation to travel outbound are not easily affected by the GFC, and this is in contrast to outbound tourists from the USA or those from some European countries influenced by the GFC.
The development of new tourism networks to respond to and recover from the 2011 Christchurch earthquake.
Authors: Becken S. , Scott N. , Ritchie B. W.
Published: December 2014

After examining the new tourism networks that developed as a response to and during recovery from the 2011 Christchurch earthquake, this chapter suggests that tourism businesses have to work collaboratively with different organizations to recover and ensure business continuity. Using a business network approach, the chapter identifies the most salient issues that may affect turnaround and the differences between networks before and after the earthquake.
Ecotourism as a sustainable recovery tool after an earthquake.
Authors: Wang ChinChin Wang ChinChin , Cater C.
Published: December 2014

This chapter investigates the potential for tourism development to contribute to recovery strategies following earthquakes. It examines changes to livelihood assets in a rural community setting in Taiwan that had suffered a major earthquake in 1999 and subsequently sought to develop an ecotourism product. Using the community-based model, the chapter presents a dynamic representation in the form of a four-circle structure to explain all the relationships that have been developed following a major earthquake. These four systems can exist in two states between different forms of capital: balanced and dynamic. When an external change such as a natural disaster presents a key trigger, this can bring positive and negative changes to and between the financial, physical, social, cultural and natural capital. The focus on capital and the interrelationships between different types of capital are important as they indicate how changes to one form of capital can disrupt the other types of capital, which may influence sustainable livelihoods.
The devastation of Darwin: representing the recovery and reconstruction of Australia after Cyclone Tracy.
Authors: White L. , Frew E.
Published: December 2014

This chapter suggests that crisis experiences should be documented so that tourism stakeholders can learn from, and be educated by, previous crises. By examining the permanent exhibition of Cyclone Tracy at the Museum and Art Galley of the Northern Territory in Darwin, the chapter explores the ways in which a tragic event in Australia has been commemorated and interpreted within the context of tourism and national identity. The chapter explains the importance of effectively interpreting a significant tragic event such as Cyclone Tracy. More importantly, the existence of this permanent exhibition allows Australians to remember the event in perpetuity and to place it in context with the development of their nation.
The role of numerical and non-numerical cues in nonsymbolic number processing: Evidence from the line bisection task
Authors: Cleland Alexandra A. , Bull Rebecca
Published: December 2014

In line bisection tasks, adults and children bisect towards the numerically larger of two nonsymbolic numerosities [de Hevia, M. D., & Spelke, E. S. (2009). Spontaneous mapping of number and space in adults and young children. Cognition, 110, 198–207. doi:10.1016/j.cognition.2008.11.003]. However, it is not clear whether this effect is driven by number itself or rather by visual cues such as subtended area [Gebuis, T., & Gevers, W. (2011). Numbers and space: Indeed a cognitive illusion! A reply to de Hevia and Spelke (2009). Cognition, 121, 248–252. doi:10.1016/j.cognition.2010.09.008]. Furthermore, this effect has only been demonstrated with flanking displays of two and nine items. Here, we report three studies that examined whether this “spatial bias” effect occurs across a range of absolute and ratio numerosity differences; in particular, we examined whether the bias would occur when both flankers were outside the subitizing range. Additionally, we manipulated the subtended area of the stimulus and the aggregate surface area to assess the influence of visual cues. We found that the spatial bias effect occurred for a range of flanking numerosities and for ratios of 3:5 and 5:6 when subtended area was not controlled (Experiment 1). However, when subtended area and aggregate surface area were held constant, the biasing effect was reversed such that participants bisected towards the flanker with fewer items (Experiment 2). Moreover, when flankers were identical, participants bisected towards the flanker with larger subtended area or larger aggregate surface area (Experiments 2 and 3). On the basis of these studies, we conclude that the spatial bias effect for nonsymbolic numerosities is primarily driven by visual cues.
3D morphology of a random field from its 2D cross-section
Authors: Makarenko Irina , Fletcher Andrew , Shukurov Anvar
Published: December 2014

The two aspect ratios of randomly oriented triaxial ellipsoids (representing isosurfaces of an isotropic 3D random field) can be determined from a single 2D cross-section of their sample using the probability density function (PDF) of the filamentarityF of individual structures seen in cross-section (F = 0 for a circle and F = 1 for a line). The PDF of F has a robust form with a sharp maximum and truncation at larger F, and the most probable and maximum values of F are uniquely and simply related to the two aspect ratios of the triaxial ellipsoids. The parameters of triaxial ellipsoids of randomly distributed sizes can still be recovered from the PDF of F. This method is applicable to many shape-recognition problems, here illustrated by the neutral hydrogen density in the turbulent interstellar medium of the Milky Way. The gas distribution is shown to be filamentary with axis ratios of about 1:2:20.
The role of the inner disk in mass accretion to the star in the early phase of star formation
Authors: Ohtani Takuya , Kimura Shigeo S. , Tsuribe Toru , Vorobyov Eduard I.
Published: December 2014

A physical mechanism that drives FU Orionis-type outbursts is reconsidered. We study the effect of the inner part of a circumstellar disk covering a region from near the central star to a radius of approximately 5 au (hereafter, the inner disk). Using the fluctuating mass accretion rate onto the inner disk $\dot{M}\,_{\rm out}$, we consider the viscous evolution of the inner disk and the time variability of the mass accretion rate onto the central star $\dot{M}\,_{\rm in}$ by means of numerical calculation of an unsteady viscous accretion disk in a one-dimensional axisymmetric model. First, we calculate the evolution of the inner disk assuming an oscillating $\dot{M}\,_{\rm out}$. It is shown that the time variability of $\dot{M}\,_{\rm in}$ does not coincide with $\dot{M}\,_{\rm out}$ due to viscous diffusion. Second, we investigate the properties of spontaneous outbursts with temporally constant $\dot{M}\,_{\rm out}$. Outbursts occur only in a limited range of mass accretion rates onto the inner disk of $10^{-10}<\dot{M}\,_{\rm out}< 3\times 10^{-6}{\,M}_{\odot }\:$yr−1 due to the gravo-magneto limit cycle (GML). Finally, we discuss the case with a combination of episodic $\dot{M}\,_{\rm out}$ and accretion outbursts caused by the GML in the inner disk. The GML can drive accretion outbursts onto the star even for the case of fluctuating $\dot{M}\,_{\rm out}$, although fluctuations of $\dot{M}\,$ decay while transmitting the inner disk inwards. We have newly identified two modes of outburst, one spontaneous and one stimulated. In the stimulated mode of outburst, $\dot{M}\,_{\rm out}$ does appear directly in $\dot{M}\,_{\rm in}$ (the latter defining the stellar accretion luminosity). In the spontaneous mode of outburst, $\dot{M}\,_{\rm out}$ appears as the interval between outbursts.
VLBI observations of bright AGN jets with the KVN and VERA Array (KaVA): Evaluation of imaging capability
Authors: Niinuma Kotaro , Lee Sang-Sung , Kino Motoki , Sohn Bong Won , Akiyama Kazunori , Zhao Guang-Yao , Sawada-Satoh Satoko , Trippe Sascha , Hada Kazuhiro , Jung Taehyun , Hagiwara Yoshiaki , Dodson Richard , Koyama Shoko , Honma Mareki , Nagai Hiroshi , Chung Aeree , Doi Akihiro , Fujisawa Kenta , Han Myoung-Hee , Kim Joeng-Sook , Lee Jeewon , Lee Jeong Ae , Miyazaki Atsushi , Oyama Tomoaki , Sorai Kazuo , Wajima Kiyoaki , Bae Jaehan , Byun Do-Young , Cho Se-Hyung , Choi Yoon Kyung , Chung Hyunsoo , Chung Moon-Hee , Han Seog-Tae , Hirota Tomoya , Hwang Jung-Wook , Je Do-Heung , Jike Takaaki , Jung Dong-Kyu , Jung Jin-Seung , Kang Ji-Hyun , Kang Jiman , Kang Yong-Woo , Kan-ya Yukitoshi , Kanaguchi Masahiro , Kawaguchi Noriyuki , Kim Bong Gyu , Kim Hyo Ryoung , Kim Hyun-Goo , Kim Jaeheon , Kim Jongsoo , Kim Kee-Tae , Kim Mikyoung , Kobayashi Hideyuki , Kono Yusuke , Kurayama Tomoharu , Lee Changhoon , Lee Jung-Won , Lee Sang Hyun , Minh Young Chol , Matsumoto Naoko , Nakagawa Akiharu , Oh Chung Sik , Oh Se-Jin , Park Sun-Youp , Roh Duk-Gyoo , Sasao Tetsuo , Shibata Katsunori M. , Song Min-Gyu , Tamura Yoshiaki , Wi Seog-Oh , Yeom Jae-Hwan , Yun Young Joo
Published: December 2014

The Korean very-long-baseline interferometry (VLBI) network (KVN) and VLBI Exploration of Radio Astrometry (VERA) Array (KaVA) is the first international VLBI array dedicated to high-frequency (23–43 GHz bands) observations in East Asia. Here, we report the first imaging observations of three bright active galactic nuclei (AGNs) known for their complex morphologies: 4C 39.25, 3C 273, and M 87. This is one of the initial results of KaVA's early operation. Our KaVA images reveal extended outflows with complex substructures such as knots and limb brightening, in agreement with previous Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA) observations. Angular resolutions are better than 1.4 and 0.8 mas at 23 and 43 GHz, respectively. KaVA achieves a high dynamic range of ∼ 1000, more than three times the value achieved by VERA. We conclude that KaVA is a powerful array with a great potential for the study of AGN outflows, at least comparable to the best existing radio interferometric arrays.
Binary formation in planetesimal disks. II. Planetesimals with a mass spectrum
Authors: Kominami Junko D. , Makino Junichiro
Published: December 2014

Many massive objects have been found in the outer region of the solar system. How they were formed and evolved has not been well understood, although there have been intensive studies of the accretion process of terrestrial planets. One of the mysteries is the existence of binary planetesimals with near-equal mass components and highly eccentric orbits. These binary planetesimals are quite different from the satellites observed in the asteroid belt region. The ratio of the Hill radius to the physical radius of the planetesimals is much larger for the outer region of the disk, compared to the inner region of the disk. The Hill radius increases with the semimajor axis. Therefore, planetesimals in the outer region can form close and eccentric binaries, while those in the inner region would simply collide. In this paper, we carried out N-body simulations in different regions of the disk and studied whether binaries form in the outer region of the disk. We found that large planetesimals tend to form binaries. A significant fraction of large planetesimals are components of binaries. Planetesimals that become the components of binaries eventually collide with a third body, through three-body encounters. Thus, the existence of binaries can enhance the growth rate of planetesimals in the trans-Neptunian object region.
Reversal of Dabigatran Effects in Models of Thrombin Generation and Hemostasis by Factor VIIa and Prothrombin Complex Concentrate
Authors: Hoffman Maureane , Volovyk Zoya , Monroe Dougald M.
Published: December 2014

AbstractAbstract

Using a cell-based coagulation model, the ability of either prothrombin complex concentrate or recombinant factor VIIa to restore hemostasis in the presence of dabigatran depends on the dose of procoagulant used and the level of dabigatran present and may explain the inconsistency of effects in different models and when used off label for treating bleeding.

Background:

The oral thrombin inhibitor dabigatran has the drawbacks that it does not have a validated antidote. Data from animal studies and plasma coagulation assays suggest that prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) or recombinant factor VIIa (FVIIa) might reverse dabigatran anticoagulation.

Methods:

Cellular elements make a significant contribution to hemostasis. Our goals were to (1) test the hypothesis that both FVIIa and a 4-factor PCC improve parameters of thrombin generation in the presence of dabigatran in a cell-based model; and (2) determine whether results in a cell-based model correlate with hemostasis in vivo.

Results:

PCC reversed dabigatran effects on the rate, peak, and total amount of thrombin but did not shorten the lag (n = 6 experiments in triplicate). By contrast, FVIIa shortened the lag, increased the rate and peak, but did not improve total thrombin (n = 6). Effects of PCC were seen at both therapeutic and markedly supratherapeutic dabigatran levels, whereas beneficial effects of FVIIa decreased as the dabigatran level increased. The PCC effect was reproduced by adding prothrombin, factor X, and factor IX. At therapeutic dabigatran levels, both PCC and FVIIa normalized hemostasis time in a mouse saphenous vein bleeding model.

Conclusions:

A cell-based model reflects the effects on thrombin generation of clinically relevant levels of FVIIa and PCC in the presence of dabigatran. Enhancing the rate of thrombin generation and peak thrombin level appear to correlate best with hemostasis in vivo. The ineffectiveness of FVIIa at supratherapeutic dabigatran levels may explain conflicting reports of its efficacy in dabigatran reversal.
Genetic and phenotypic intra-species variation in Candida albicans
Authors: Hirakawa Matthew P. , Martinez Diego A. , Sakthikumar Sharadha , Anderson Matthew Z. , Berlin Aaron , Gujja Sharvari , Zeng Qiandong , Zisson Ethan , Wang Joshua M. , Greenberg Joshua M. , Berman Judith , Bennett Richard J. , Cuomo Christina A.
Published: December 2014

Candida albicans is a commensal fungus of the human gastrointestinal tract and a prevalent opportunistic pathogen. To examine diversity within this species, extensive genomic and phenotypic analyses were performed on 21 clinical C. albicans isolates. Genomic variation was evident in the form of polymorphisms, copy number variations, chromosomal inversions, subtelomeric hypervariation, loss of heterozygosity (LOH), and whole or partial chromosome aneuploidies. All 21 strains were diploid, although karyotypic changes were present in eight of the 21 isolates, with multiple strains being trisomic for Chromosome 4 or Chromosome 7. Aneuploid strains exhibited a general fitness defect relative to euploid strains when grown under replete conditions. All strains were also heterozygous, yet multiple, distinct LOH tracts were present in each isolate. Higher overall levels of genome heterozygosity correlated with faster growth rates, consistent with increased overall fitness. Genes with the highest rates of amino acid substitutions included many cell wall proteins, implicating fast evolving changes in cell adhesion and host interactions. One clinical isolate, P94015, presented several striking properties including a novel cellular phenotype, an inability to filament, drug resistance, and decreased virulence. Several of these properties were shown to be due to a homozygous nonsense mutation in the EFG1 gene. Furthermore, loss of EFG1 function resulted in increased fitness of P94015 in a commensal model of infection. Our analysis therefore reveals intra-species genetic and phenotypic differences in C. albicans and delineates a natural mutation that alters the balance between commensalism and pathogenicity.
A three-dimensional anionic metal–dicyanamide network in poly[ethyltriphenylphosphonium [tri-μ2-dicyanamidato-cadmium(II)]]
Authors: Li Qiang
Published: December 2014

The title compound, (C20H20P)[Cd(C2N3)3], consists of ethyltriphenylphosphonium (EtPh3P+) cations filling voids in a three-dimensional anionic cadmium dicyanamide network. In the structure, each CdIIatom is connected to six neighbouring CdIIatoms through six separate dicyanamide ligands, forming cube-shaped cages. The three-dimensional anionic network encloses a solvent-accessible void space of 1851 Å3, amounting to 69.3% of the unit-cell volume. Each cage accommodates only one EtPh3P+cation.
Report of the Executive Committee for 2013
Authors: Dacombe M.
Published: December 2014

The report of the Executive Committee for 2013 is presented.
Crystal structure of γ-methylL-glutamateN-carboxy anhydride
Authors: Kanazawa Hitoshi , Inada Aya , Sakon Aya , Uekusa Hidehiro
Published: December 2014

In the title compound, C7H9NO5, alternative nameN-carboxy-L-glutamic anhydride γ-methyl ester, the oxazolidine ring is essentially planar with a maximum deviation of 0.020 (3) Å. In the crystal, molecules are linked by N—H...O hydrogen bonds between the imino group and the carbonyl O atom in the methyl ester group, forming a tape structure along thea-axis direction. The tapes are linked by C—H...O interactions into a sheet parallel to theacplane. The tapes are also stacked along thebaxis with short contacts between the oxazolidine rings [C...O contact distances = 2.808 (4)–3.060 (4) Å], so that the oxazolidine rings are arranged in a layer parallel to theabplane. This arrangement of the oxazolidine rings is very preferable for the polymerization of the title compound in the solid state.
Crystal structure of tris(1,10-phenanthroline-κ2N,N′)iron(II) bis[bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide] monohydrate
Authors: Teramoto Kazunori , Kawasaki Takeshi , Nishide Toshikazu , Ikeda Yasuhisa
Published: December 2014

The crystal structure of the title complex, [Fe(C12H8N2)3][(CF3SO2)2N]2·H2O, is constructed by one octahedral [Fe(phen)3]2+(phen = 1,10-phenanthroline) cation (point group symmetry 2), two Tf2N−[bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide] anions, and one water molecule of crystallization (point group 2). The Fe—N bond lengths are indicative of ad6low-spin state for the FeIIion in the complex. The dihedral angle between the phen ligands in the cation is 87.64 (6)°. The Tf2N−counter-anion is non-coordinating, with the –CF3groups arranged in atransfashion with respect to each other, leading to ananti,anticonformation of the –CF3groups and –SO2N– moieties relative to the S—C bonds. The water molecule of crystallization connects two O atoms of the Tf2N−anions through weak hydrogen bonds. C—H...O hydrogen-bonding interactions are also observed, consolidating the packing of the molecules into a three-dimensional network structure.
Differential expression analysis of miRNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with non‐segmental vitiligo
Authors: Wang Yi , Wang Keyu , Liang Jianhua , Yang Hong , Dang Ningning , Yang Xi , Kong Yi
Published: December 2014

Vitiligo is a common depigmentary skin disease that may follow a pattern of multifactorial inheritance. The essential factors of its immunopathogenesis is thought to be the selective destruction of melanocytes. As a new class of microregulators of gene expression, miRNA have been reported to play vital roles in autoimmune diseases, metabolic diseases and cancer. This study sought to characterize the different miRNA expression pattern in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of patients with non‐segmental vitiligo (NSV) and healthy individuals and to examine their direct responses to thymosin α1 (Tα1) treatment. The miRNA expression profile in the PBMC of patients with NSV was analyzed using Exiqon's miRCURY LNA microRNA Array. The differentially expressed miRNA were validated by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. We found that the expression levels of miR‐224‐3p and miR‐4712‐3p were upregulated, and miR‐3940‐5p was downregulated in the PBMC. The common clinical immune modulator Tα1 changed the miRNA expression profile. Our analysis showed that differentially expressed miRNA were associated with the mechanism of immune imbalance of vitiligo and that Tα1 could play an important role in changing the expression of these miRNA in the PBMC of patients with NSV. This study provided further evidence that miRNA may serve as novel drug targets for vitiligo therapeutic evaluation.
3‐Chloropropane‐1,2‐diol (3‐MCPD) in Soy Sauce: A Review on the Formation, Reduction, and Detection of This Potential Carcinogen
Authors: Lee Bai Qin , Khor Sook Mei
Published: December 2014

Soy sauce, a dark‐colored seasoning, is added to enhance the sensory properties of foods. Soy sauce can be consumed as a condiment or added during the preparation of food. There are 3 types of soy sauce: fermented, acid‐hydrolyzed vegetable protein (acid‐ HVP), and mixtures of these. 3‐Chloropropane‐1,2‐diol (3‐MCPD) is a heat‐produced contaminants formed during the preparation of soy sauce and was found to be a by‐product of acid‐HVP‐produced soy sauce in 1978. 3‐MCPD has been reported to be carcinogenic, nephrotoxic, and reproductively toxic in laboratory animal testing and has been registered as a chemosterilant for rodent control. 3‐MCPD is classified as a possible carcinogenic compound, and the maximum tolerated limit in food has been established at both national and international levels. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview on the detection of 3‐MCPD in soy sauce, its toxic effects, and the potential methods to reduce its concentration, especially during the production of acid‐HVP soy sauce. The methods of quantification are also critically reviewed with a focus on efficiency, suitability, and challenges encountered in analysis.
2,6‐Di‐Tert‐Butyl‐Hydroxytoluene and Its Metabolites in Foods
Authors: Nieva‐Echevarría Bárbara , Manzanos María J. , Goicoechea Encarnación , Guillén María D.
Published: December 2014

2,6‐Di‐tert‐butyl‐hydroxytoluene (BHT, E‐321) is a synthetic phenolic antioxidant which has been widely used as an additive in the food, cosmetic, and plastic industries for the last 70 y. Although it is considered safe for human health at authorized levels, its ubiquitous presence and the controversial toxicological data reported are of great concern for consumers. In recent years, special attention has been paid to these 14 metabolites or degradation products: BHT‐CH2OH, BHT‐CHO, BHT‐COOH, BHT‐Q, BHT‐QM, DBP, BHT‐OH, BHT‐OOH, TBP, BHQ, BHT‐OH(t), BHT‐OH(t)QM, 2‐BHT, and 2‐BHT‐QM. These derived compounds could pose a human health risk from a food safety point of view, but they have been little studied. In this context, this review deals with the occurrence, origin, and fate of BHT in foodstuffs, its biotransformation into metabolites, their toxicological implications, their antioxidant and prooxidant properties, the analytical determination of metabolites in foods, and human dietary exposure. Moreover, noncontrolled additional sources of exposure to BHT and its metabolites are highlighted. These include their carryover from feed to fish, poultry and eggs, their presence in smoke flavorings, their migration from plastic pipelines and packaging to water and food, and their presence in natural environments, from which they can reach the food chain.
Combination of UV‐C Treatment and Metschnikowia pulcherrimas for Controlling Alternaria Rot in Postharvest Winter Jujube Fruit
Authors: Guo Dongqi , Zhu Lixia , Hou Xujie
Published: December 2014

The potential of using antagonistic yeast Metschnikowia pulcherrimas alone or in combination with ultraviolet‐C (UV‐C) treatment for controlling Alternaria rot of winter jujube, and its effects on postharvest quality of fruit was investigated. The results showed that spore germination of Alternaria alternata was significantly inhibited by each of the 3 doses (1, 5, and 10 kJ m−2) in vitro. In vivo, UV‐C treatment (5 kJ m−2) or antagonist yeast was capable of reducing the percentage of infected wounds and lesion diameter in artificially inoculated jujube fruits, however, in fruit treated with combination of UV‐C treatment and M. pulcherrima, the percentage of infected wounds and lesion diameter was only 16.0% and 0.60 cm, respectively. The decay incidence on winter jujube fruits treated with the combination of UV‐C treatment and M. pulcherrima was 23% after storage at 0 ± 1 °C for 45 d followed by 22 °C for 7 d. None of the treatments impaired quality parameters of jujube fruit. Thus, the combination of UV‐C radiation and M. pulcherrima could be an alternative to synthetic fungicides for controlling postharvest Alternaria rot of winter jujube.
Maternal Asian ethnicity and the risk of anal sphincter injury
Authors: Davies‐Tuck Miranda , Biro Mary‐Anne , Mockler Joanne , Stewart Lynne , Wallace Euan M , East Christine
Published: December 2014

Objective

To examine associations between maternal Asian ethnicity (South Asian and South East/East Asian) and anal sphincter injury.

Design

Retrospective cross‐sectional study, comparing outcomes for Asian women with those of Australian and New Zealand women.

Setting

A large metropolitan maternity service in Victoria, Australia.

Population

Australian/New Zealand, South Asian and South East/East Asian women who had a singleton vaginal birth from 2006 to 2012.

Methods

The relation between maternal ethnicity and anal sphincter injury was assessed by logistic regression, adjusting for potential confounders.

Main outcome measures

Anal sphincter injury was defined as a third or fourth degree tear (with or without episiotomy).

Results

Among 32 653 vaginal births there was a significant difference in the rate of anal sphincter injury by maternal region of birth (p < 0.001). After adjustment for confounders, nulliparous women born in South Asian and South East/East Asia were 2.6 (95% confidence interval 2.2–3.3; p < 0.001) and 2.1 (95% confidence interval 1.7–2.5; p < 0.001) times more likely to sustain an anal sphincter injury than Australian/New Zealand women, respectively. Parous women born in South Asian and South East/East Asia were 2.4 (95% confidence interval 1.8–3.2; p < 0.001) and 2.0 (95% confidence interval 1.5–2.7; p < 0.001) times more likely to sustain an anal sphincter injury than Australian/New Zealand women, respectively.

Conclusion

There are ethnic differences in the rates of anal sphincter injury not fully explained by known risk factors for such trauma. This may have implications for care provision.