bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pathophysiology of empty nose syndrome
Authors: Sozansky Jeanie , Houser Steven M.
Published: June 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

To review current knowledge on nasal airflow sensation in relation to empty nose syndrome (ENS).

Study Design

PubMed searches.

Methods

Current literature pertaining to measurement of nasal patency, mechanism of sensory perception of nasal airflow, and ENS.

Results

A reliance on pure anatomical analysis of the anatomy in ENS falls short of explaining the disorder. Our understanding of subjective nasal sensation has advanced, as has our understanding of the flow of air through the nose. Neural healing following a surgical insult may not result in a return to a normal physiologic state. Aberrations in neurosensory systems from improper healing may play a major role in the abnormal sensations ENS patients experience.

Conclusions

An evidence‐based hypothesis for the development and symptoms of ENS is offered. Laryngoscope, 125:70–74, 2015
Enzymatic Synthesis of Dendritic Amphoteric α‐Glucans by Thermostable Phosphorylase Catalysis
Authors: Takata Yusei , Shimohigoshi Riko , Yamamoto Kazuya , Kadokawa Jun‐Ichi
Published: June 2014

This article reports the enzymatic synthesis of dendritic amphoteric α‐glucans having both glucuronic acid and glucosamine residues at the non‐reducing ends by thermostable phosphorylase‐catalyzed successive glucuronylation and glucosaminylation of a glucan dendrimer having α‐(1 → 4)‐glucan non‐reducing ends using α‐D‐glucuronic acid 1‐phosphate and α‐D‐glucosamine 1‐phosphate as glycosyl donors, respectively. The structure of the products is confirmed by the 1H NMR analysis. The products exhibit inherent isoelectric points (pIs) determined by the ζ‐potential measurement. These materials self‐assemble in water at pH = pI to form large aggregates, but disassemble at pH shifted from pI.
Thermally Tunable, Self‐Healing Composites for Soft Robotic Applications
Authors: Cheng Nadia G. , Gopinath Arvind , Wang Lifeng , Iagnemma Karl , Hosoi Anette E.
Published: June 2014

The field of soft robotics has inspired recent mechanical engineering and materials science innovations to enable shape‐shifting systems to be developed. This paper presents the design and analysis of a novel thermally tunable composite, namely, a flexible open‐cell foam coated in wax that can achieve significant ranges of stiffness, strength, and volume. Experimental results were compared to a proposed model for predicting the bulk compression modulus of the composites. Additionally, preliminary studies indicate that the composites exhibit self‐healing properties, in which heating between loading cycles can mend wax that has been plastically deformed, for example, by cracking or delaminating from the foam.
Isocyanate‐ and Phosgene‐Free Routes to Polyfunctional Cyclic Carbonates and Green Polyurethanes by Fixation of Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Blattmann Hannes , Fleischer Maria , Bähr Moritz , Mülhaupt Rolf
Published: June 2014

The catalytic chemical fixation of carbon dioxide by carbonation of oxiranes, oxetanes, and polyols represents a very versatile green chemistry route to environmentally benign di‐ and polyfunctional cyclic carbonates as intermediates for the formation of non‐isocyanate poly­urethane (NIPU). Two synthetic pathways lead to NIPU thermoplastics and thermosets: i) polycondensation of diacarbamates or acyclic dicarbonates with diols or diamines, respectively, and ii) polyaddition by ring‐opening polymerization of di‐ and polyfunctional cyclic carbonates with di‐ and polyamines. The absence of hazardous and highly moisture‐sensitive isocyanates as intermediates eliminates the need for special safety precautions, drying and handling procedures. Incorporated into polymer backbones and side chains, carbonate groups enable facile tailoring of a great variety of urethane‐functional polymers. As compared with conventional polyurethanes, ring‐opening polymerization of polyfunctional cyclic carbonates affords polyhydroxyurethanes with unconventional architectures including NIPUs containing carbohydrate segments. NIPU/epoxy hybrid coatings can be applied on wet surfaces and exhibit improved adhesion, thermal stability and wear resistance. Combining chemical with biological carbon dioxide fixation affords 100% bio‐based NIPUs derived from plant oils, terpenes, carbohydrates, and bio polyols. Biocompatible and biodegradable NIPU as well as NIPU biocomposites hold great promise for biomedical applications.

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A role for peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma in resveratrol‐induced colon cancer cell apoptosis
Authors: Aires Virginie , Brassart Bertrand , Carlier Annie , Scagliarini Alessandra , Mandard Stéphane , Limagne Emeric , Solary Eric , Martiny Laurent , Tarpin Michel , Delmas Dominique
Published: June 2014

Scope

Resveratrol may function as a chemopreventive agent. A recent clinical study demonstrates a reduction in tumor cell proliferation in colorectal patients receiving repeated oral ingestion of resveratrol. However, gaps remain in our knowledge of the molecular mechanisms by which resveratrol exerts its chemopreventive effect. We have previously demonstrated that resveratrol induces apoptosis in colon cancer cells and that resveratrol can sensitize chemoresistant colon cancer cells to various drugs. Based on its ability to activate peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) in colon cancer cells, we sought to determine the implication of this nuclear transcription factor in resveratrol‐induced apoptosis.

Methods and results

Transient transfection of cancer cells with a dominant‐negative PPARγ mutant or treatment with a PPARγ antagonist (GW9662) reversed the inhibitory effect of resveratrol. Moreover, GW9662 prevented disruption of the cell cycle induced by resveratrol and consequently abrogated resveratrol‐induced apoptosis. Tumor cell death was potentiated by combining resveratrol with rosiglitazone, a PPARγ agonist.

Conclusion

The results show that PPARγ plays a role in resveratrol‐induced apoptosis of colon carcinoma cells. The combination of resveratrol with a PPARγ agonist could be a promising pharmacological approach for treatment of colorectal cancer.
Modulation of human miR‐17–3p expression by methyl 3‐O‐methyl gallate as explanation of its in vivo protective activities
Authors: Curti Valeria , Capelli Enrica , Boschi Federica , Nabavi Seyed Fazel , Bongiorno Andria I. , Habtemariam Solomon , Nabavi Seyed Mohammad , Daglia Maria
Published: June 2014

Scope

Methyl‐3‐O‐methyl gallate (M3OMG) possesses in vivo antioxidant activity due to the partial restoration of the antioxidant enzymes, whose expression is altered in oxidative stress. Literature data suggest that miR‐17–3p is a microRNA involved in the regulation of cellular redox status, interfering with transcription of the mRNAs responsible for the synthesis of antioxidant enzymes. To obtain deeper insight into the potential mechanism of action of M3OMG, the aim of this study was to investigate its effect on the expression levels of miR‐17–3p in human cells.

Methods and results

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells and EVC‐304 cells were treated with increasing subtoxic concentrations of M3OMG. The expression levels of miR‐17–3p, extracted from cells and exosomes, were determined by quantitative real‐time PCR. M3OMG induced a decrease in the miR‐17–3p levels, and an increase in the levels of mRNA coding for the antioxidant enzymes, when compared to the control samples. Differently, in exosomes the expression levels of miR‐17–3p were depended on the compound, its concentration, and the type of cell.

Conclusion

These results suggest a potential mechanism of action of M3OMG that, inducing the reduction of the levels of miR‐17–3p and the increase of mRNA coding for antioxidant enzymes, allows to these latter to perform their protective effects.
Feature Selection for Support Vector Machine in the Study of Financial Early Warning System
Authors: Li Jingxiang , Qin Yichen , Yi Danhui , Li Yang , Shen Ye
Published: June 2014

In this article, we introduce the L1 regularized support vector machine (L1‐SVM) as an effective feature selection technique into the modeling of financial early warning system (EWS), for the purpose of establishing compact financial EWSs for Chinese‐listed companies. By introducing LASSO penalty into the SVM framework, the L1‐SVM is a capable methodology to select causative features in classification problem. We evaluate the feature selection performance of L1‐SVM under different circumstances through numerical simulations and find it suitable for selecting features for financial EWS. In the real study, we establish four financial EWSs with features selected by L1‐SVM and compare them with those trained with full features. The empirical result illustrates that our EWSs, with only minority of features, outperform significantly than full ones in the respect of generalization performance, which indicates the feasibility of L1‐SVM in real applications. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization tandem mass spectrometry of N‐glycans derivatized with isonicotinic hydrazide and its biotinylated form
Authors: Bank Stephanie , Heller Eberhard , Memmel Elisabeth , Seibel Jürgen , Holzgrabe Ulrike , Kapková Petra
Published: June 2014

RATIONALE

Successful structural characterization of glycans often requires derivatization prior to mass spectrometric analysis. Here we report on a new derivatization reagent for glycans, biotinylated isonicotinic hydrazide, allowing glycan analysis by both mass spectrometry (MS) and biochemically. Fragmentation behavior in MS and its use in structural elucidation were investigated and compared with other labels.

METHODS

Glycans, released from ribonuclease B and ovalbumin, were derivatized with hydrazine labels (isoniazid (INH), biotinylated isonicotinic hydrazide (BINH) and biotinamidocaproylhydrazide (BACH)). In addition, native counterparts and 2‐aminobenzamide (2‐AB) derivatives were prepared. Comparative matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization tandem time‐of‐flight (MALDI TOF/TOF) experiments were carried out to investigate the fragmentation pattern of the derivatives. Finally, the capability of BINH derivatives to bind lectins was explored.

RESULTS

Generally, derivatization provided beneficial enhancement in the mass spectrometric signal intensity as compared to native counterparts. The mass spectrometric fragmentation varied with the kind of label used. The most significant structure‐revealing ions (cross‐ring cleavages) were observed in the spectra of BINH derivatives, whereas mainly glycosidic cleavages were found with native form of glycans and 2‐AB derivatives.

CONCLUSIONS

Hydrazine derivatization provided the means to obtain structurally informative fragment ions. Due to BINH derivatization, specific fragments of the isomers allowed the identification of diverse glycans. The derivatization reaction can be carried out without the need for purification. The biotin residue of BINH enabled for biochemical studies, i.e. protein–glycan interactions. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cloning, expression and characterization of glycerol dehydrogenase involved in 2,3-butanediol formation in Serratia marcescens H30
Authors: Zhang Liaoyuan , Xu Quanming , Peng Xiaoqian , Xu Boheng , Wu Yuehao , Yang Yulong , Sun Shujing , Hu Kaihui , Shen Yaling
Published: June 2014

The meso-2,3-butanediol dehydrogenase (meso-BDH) from S. marcescens H30 is responsible for converting acetoin into 2,3-butanediol during sugar fermentation. Inactivation of the meso-BDH encoded by budC gene does not completely abolish 2,3-butanediol production, which suggests that another similar enzyme involved in 2,3-butanediol formation exists in S. marcescens H30. In the present study, a glycerol dehydrogenase (GDH) encoded by gldA gene from S. marcescens H30 was expressed in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3), purified and characterized for its properties. In vitro conversion indicated that the purified GDH could catalyze the interconversion of (3S)-acetoin/meso-2,3-butanediol and (3R)-acetoin/(2R,3R)-2,3-butanediol. (2S,3S)-2,3-Butanediol was not a substrate for the GDH at all. Kinetic parameters of the GDH enzyme showed lower K  m value and higher catalytic efficiency for (3S/3R)-acetoin in comparison to those for (2R,3R)-2,3-butanediol and meso-2,3-butanediol, implying its physiological role in favor of 2,3-butanediol formation. Maximum activity for reduction of (3S/3R)-acetoin and oxidations of meso-2,3-butanediol and glycerol was observed at pH 8.0, while it was pH 7.0 for diacetyl reduction. The enzyme exhibited relative high thermotolerance with optimum temperature of 60 °C in the oxidation–reduction reactions. Over 60 % of maximum activity was retained at 70 °C. Additionally, the GDH activity was significantly enhanced for meso-2,3-BD oxidation in the presence of Fe2+ and for (3S/3R)-acetoin reduction in the presence of Mn2+, while several cations inhibited its activity, particularly Fe2+ and Fe3+ for (3S/3R)-acetoin reduction. The properties provided potential application for single configuration production of acetoin and 2,3-butanediol .
Representations of Cuntz algebras associated to quasi-stationary Markov measures
Authors: DUTKAY DORIN ERVIN , JORGENSEN PALLE E. T.
Published: June 2014

In this paper, we answer the question of equivalence, or singularity, of two given quasi-stationary Markov measures on one-sided infinite words, as well as the corresponding question of equivalence of associated Cuntz algebra${\mathcal{O}}_{N}$-representations. We do this by associating certain monic representations of${\mathcal{O}}_{N}$to quasi-stationary Markov measures and then proving that equivalence for a pair of measures is decided by unitary equivalence of the corresponding pair of representations.
Co-prescribing of linezolid and serotonergic agents in a general hospital setting
Authors: Clarke C. , Finnegan M. , O’Dwyer A. M. , Mc Donald C. , O’Connell B. , Cooney J.
Published: June 2014

Background

Co-prescription of linezolid and serotonergic agents (SSRIs, SNRIs, NaSSA, TCAs) can lead to serotonin syndrome, this study seeks to identify prescribing practise of these agents.

Methods

Study of all general hospital inpatients prescribed intravenous linezolid in a 3-month period, using drug charts and clinical notes.

Results

Co-prescription occurred in 20% with SSRIs most frequently concurrently used. There were no cases of serotonin syndrome. There was no evidence in clinical notes of vigilance for potential interaction.

Conclusion

Co-prescription is common; awareness of potentially serious interaction is not evident in current practice.
A Thom-Porteous formula for connective K-theory using algebraic cobordism
Authors: Hudson Thomas
Published: June 2014

Under the assumption that the base field k has characteristic 0, we prove a formula for the push-forward class of Bott-Samelson resolutions in the algebraic cobordism ring of the flag bundle. We specialise our formula to connective K-theory providing a geometric interpretation to the double β-polynomials of Fomin and Kirillov by computing the fundamental classes of schubert varieties. As a corollary we obtain a Thom-Porteous formula generalising those of the Chow ring and of the Grothendieck ring of vector bundles.
Towards a K-theoretic characterization of graded isomorphisms between Leavitt path algebras
Authors: Ara P. , Pardo E.
Published: June 2014

In Hazrat gave a K-theoretic invariant for Leavitt path algebras as graded algebras. Hazrat conjectured that this invariant classifies Leavitt path algebras up to graded isomorphism, and proved the conjecture in some cases. In this paper, we prove that a weak version of the conjecture holds for all finite essential graphs.
Stratification of the Moduli Space of Four-Gonal Curves
Authors: Brundu Michela , Sacchiero Gianni
Published: June 2014

Let X be a smooth irreducible projective curve of genus g and gonality 4. We show that the canonical model of X is contained in a uniquely defined surface, ruled by conics, whose geometry is deeply related to that of X. This surface allows us to define four invariants of X and, hence, to stratify the moduli space of four-gonal curves by means of closed irreducible subvarieties, whose dimensions we compute.
The Development of Selected Mutual Relations between the Czech Republic and Slovakia
Authors: Halás Marián
Published: June 2014

For a period of 75 years after 1918 the territories of the present-day Czech Republic and Slovakia were part of one country, and therefore it was inevitable that very close relations between them would develop and which that could not suddenly be broken. Today, more than 20 years since the dissolution of Czechoslovakia, both of the newly formed countries are slowly reaching ‘adulthood’, and both the social situation and the development of mutual relations have been gradually stabilised. This contribution compares and evaluates the development of selected mutual relations between the Czech Republic and Slovakia. It is supported by a brief comparison of some basic features of the development of both countries, which is the information on which this study is based. The key part of the article comprises an analysis of the development of mutual relations and cooperation on a nationwide level. The trade and migration relations (labour and study migration) of both republics, especially after 1993, fall within the scope of the analysis. A separate section is devoted to the common borderland and the development and spatial differentiation of cross-border relations and cooperation.
The impact of agricultural biotechnology on supply and land-use
Authors: Barrows Geoffrey , Sexton Steven , Zilberman David
Published: June 2014

We use aggregate data to estimate supply, price, land-use, and greenhouse gas impacts of genetically engineered (GE) seed adoption due both to increased yield per hectare (intensive margin) and increased planted area (extensive margin). An adoption model with profitability and risk considerations distinguishes between the two margins, where the intensive margin results from direct ‘gene’ impacts and higher complimentary input use, and the extensive margin reflects the growing range of lands that become profitable with the GE technology. We identify yield increases from cross-country time series variation in GE adoption share within the main GE crops – cotton, corn and soybeans. We find that GE increased yields 34 per cent for cotton, 12 per cent for corn and 3 per cent for soybeans. We then estimate the quantity of extensive margin lands from year-to-year changes in traditional and GE planted area. If all production on the extensive margin is attributed to GE technology, the supply effect of GE increases from 5 per cent to 12 per cent for corn, 15 per cent to 20 per cent for cotton, and 2 per cent to 40 per cent for soybeans, generating significant downward pressure on prices. Finally, we compute ‘saved’ lands and greenhouse gases as the difference between observed hectarage per crop and counterfactual hectarage needed to generate the same output without the yield boost from GE. We find that altogether, GE saved 13 million hectares of land from conversion to agriculture in 2010, and averted emissions are equivalent to roughly one-eighth of the annual emissions from automobiles in the US.
Imaginary Spaces: New Malaysian performance contexts for intercultural exploration
Authors: Blackburn Andrew , Penny Jean
Published: June 2014

The Imaginary Space: Developing models for an emergent Malaysian/Western electroacoustic music is a Fundamental Research Grant Scheme project funded by the Malaysian government in which intercultural investigation is centred within an electroacoustic performance environment. A unique series of music outcomes and potential models reflecting a symbiosis of Malaysian and Western art music through composition and performance are emerging for instrument(s) and electronics. This paper focuses on the first and second phases of the project investigating Western flute, Malaysian serunai and pensol nose flute with electronics. Multi-stranded investigations of connections are identified within the conception, composition, realisation and reception of these works. Performer perspectives are given through two case studies. Our purpose is to illuminate understandings of intercultural connections, to begin to re-conceptualise cultural research paradigms, and to see what we can discover about performance contexts and engagement with individuals, cultures and traditions. The research is contextualised within the philosophical theories of Gadamer, Merleau-Ponty and Ingold. Investigating the role of technology in this context impels a discussion of how these elements generate a new, multifaceted environment, the space in which intercultural and performative understandings can emerge. This article focuses on how these performance contexts become a place for research and new understandings.
Towards an Ethics of Creative Sound
Authors: Andean James
Published: June 2014

This article examines some of the ethical issues involved in working creatively with sound. Issues considered include: sound ownership; sound vs. vision as determinations of identity, and their relative iconicity; recorded sound; sound as physical phenomenon vs. sound as symbol; issues of copyright and trademark; community ownership; awareness, sensitivity and responsibility; composer responsibility vs. listener responsibility; the relative importance of contextualisation; and intercultural dialogue. We will conclude with a critique of the cultural and ethical shortcomings of the article itself, and a call for social, cultural and ethical engagement in creative sound work.
Daoism, Nature and Humanity
Authors: Cooper David E.
Published: June 2014

This paper sympathetically explores Daoism's relevance to environmental philosophy and to the aspiration of people to live in a manner convergent with nature. After discussing the Daoist understanding of nature and the dao (Way), the focus turns to the implications of these notions for our relationship to nature. The popular idea that Daoism encourages a return to a ‘primitive’ way of life is rejected. Instead, it is shown that the Daoist proposal is one of living more ‘spontaneously’ than people generally do in the modern, technological world, and of allowing other beings to do so as well. These themes are clarified in a final section, inspired by some Daoist remarks, devoted to the relationship of human beings with animals.
From Good Knowers to Just Knowers in theMahãbhãrata: Towards a Comparative Virtue Epistemology
Authors: Dalmiya Vrinda
Published: June 2014

Adopting the framework of Anglo Analytic Virtue Epistemology, I ask of the Sanskrit epic, theMahābhārata,the question: What sort of character or ‘intellectual virtues’ must a ‘good knower’ have? Then, inspired by broadly feminist sensibilities, I raise the concern whether dispositions for knowing the world can be associated with motivations to rectify injustices in that world – whether, in other words, a good knower is also a ‘just knower.’ I go on to explore the structure of humility and shame as ‘virtues of truth’ in the epic to see whether they can establish a connection between knowing and justice.
Analytic Philosophy and its Synoptic Commission: Towards the Epistemic End of Days
Authors: MacBride Fraser
Published: June 2014

There is no such thing as ‘analytic philosophy’, conceived as a special discipline with its own distinctive subject matter or peculiar method. But there is an analytic task for philosophy that distinguishes it from other reflective pursuits, a global or synoptic commission: to establish whether the final outputs of other disciplines and common sense can be fused into a single periscopic vision of the Universe. And there is the hard-won insight that thought and language aren't transparent but stand in need of analysis – a recent variation upon the abiding philosophical theme that we need to get behind appearances to tell the ultimate truth about reality – an insight that threatens to be lost once philosophers appeal to intuitions.
Islamic Philosophy: Past, Present and Future
Authors: Paya Ali
Published: June 2014

The aim of this paper is to critically assess the present state of Islamic philosophy in its main home, namely, Iran. However, since such a study requires some knowledge of the past developments of philosophical thought among Muslims, the paper briefly, though critically, deals with the emergence and subsequent phases of change in the views of Muslim philosophers from ninth century onward. In this historical survey I also touch upon the role played by other Muslim scholars such as theologians, mystics and jurists, in shaping Islamic philosophy. The last section of the paper, deals, not in great details, with one or two possible scenarios for the future of Islamic philosophy.
Establishment of a core collection of chilli germplasm using microsatellite analysis
Authors: Mongkolporn Orarat , Hanyong Suntree , Chunwongse Julapark , Wasee Sirikul
Published: June 2014

Chilli (Capsicum spp.) is an economically important vegetable and spice. The Tropical Vegetable Research and Development Center, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus has collected more than 2500 chilli germplasm accessions since 1989. Investment to maintain and evaluate such a large germplasm collection is high. For efficient germplasm management and to reduce the cost of germplasm maintenance, a core collection needs to be established. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the genetic diversity of chilli germplasm using microsatellites. A total of 230 chilli germplasm accessions were evaluated using ten anchored Capsicum microsatellite loci. These loci generated 42 alleles with a size ranging from 87 to 323 bp. The average polymorphic information content was 0.57, ranging from 0.414 to 0.681, and the probability of identity (PI) ranged from 0.17 to 0.49. The combined PI of the ten microsatellite loci was 2.30 × 10− 6. The similarity index ranged from 0.29 to 1.00. The 230 chilli accessions were divided into two major groups. Group I comprised mainly C. annuum, and group II comprised all four Capsicum species with the majority being C. frutescens, C. chinense and C. baccatum. The matrix comparison showed that a cophenetic correlation of 0.798 indicated the best fit of the obtained dendrogram. The PowerCore program selected 28 representative chilli accessions to form a core collection, which maintained a similar level of diversity to that of the overall 230 chilli accessions. The representative alleles in those 28 core accessions equalled all the alleles present in the entire collection.
ON PATHOLOGICAL TRUTHS
Authors: ROSENBLATT LUCAS , SZMUC DAMIÁN E.
Published: June 2014

In Kripke’s classic paper on truth it is argued that by adding a new semantic category different from truth and falsity it is possible to have a language with its own truth predicate. A substantial problem with this approach is that it lacks the expressive resources to characterize those sentences which fall under the new category. The main goal of this paper is to offer a refinement of Kripke’s approach in which this difficulty does not arise. We tackle this characterization problem by letting certain sentences belong to more than one semantic category. We also consider the prospect of generalizing this framework to deal with languages containing vague predicates.
A comparison between GA, PSO, and IWO for shaped beam reflector antennas
Authors: Alavi Seyed Mohammad , Naini Ali F.
Published: June 2014

This paper presents a comparison between three evolutionary algorithms (EAs) for pattern synthesis of offset reflector antenna fed by a planar array of horn antennas. To perform the optimization process, an elliptical-shaped beam in the U–V plane (U = sinθ cosφ and V = sinθ sinφ) is considered as the desired far-field radiation pattern. To attain the appropriate excitation value for array elements, three conditions are considered: (1) variable amplitude (with uniform phase distribution), (2) variable phase (with uniform amplitude distribution), and (3) variable amplitude and phase excitation. Obtaining the appropriate excitation value based on the mathematical methods is always complicated and time-consuming. Therefore, genetic algorithm (GA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) as two well-known EAs have been used widely for different applications and shown the promise to solve complicated problems. This paper compares these two EAs with invasive weed optimization (IWO) which is robust and has simple and powerful process with few tuning parameters. We found that for pattern synthesis of multi-feed reflector antenna in different conditions, IWO can provide accurate and comparable results with GA and PSO methods at approximately same iteration number. The convergence diagrams as well as the optimized radiation patterns for different conditions are presented and compared for GA, PSO and IWO.
Feasibility and Potential Effectiveness of Integrated Services for Children With ADHD in Urban Primary Care Practices
Authors: Power Thomas J. , Mautone Jennifer A. , Marshall Stephen A. , Jones Heather A. , Cacia Jaclyn , Tresco Katy , Cassano Michael C. , Jawad Abbas F. , Guevara James P. , Blum Nathan J.
Published: June 2014

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of Partnering to Achieve School Success (PASS), a multimodal intervention for children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) based in urban primary care practices. Using a quasi-experimental design, families in PASS ( n = 33) were compared with those in a control condition receiving treatment as usual plus 4 parent education and support groups ( n = 39). Participants included children with parent-reported ADHD in Grades K to 4. PASS components include the following: (a) family engagement strategies, (b) family behavior therapy, (c) family–school consultation, (d) collaborative care with the pediatric primary care provider, and (e) trauma-informed care. The findings indicated that on average, families attended 9 PASS sessions, similar to the amount of treatment provided in clinic-based studies. Parents viewed PASS as an acceptable treatment. Preliminary outcome findings demonstrated that PASS is a promising approach to reducing barriers to care, improving parenting practices, and reducing child impairment. The findings affirmed the feasibility of providing PASS in urban primary care, and highlighted the challenges of engaging families in treatment and linking the primary care and school systems in urban settings.
TM6SF2 rs58542926 influences hepatic fibrosis progression in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Liu Yang-Lin , Reeves Helen L. , Burt Alastair D. , Tiniakos Dina , McPherson Stuart , Leathart Julian B. S. , Allison Michael E. D. , Alexander Graeme J. , Piguet Anne-Christine , Anty Rodolphe , Donaldson Peter , Aithal Guruprasad P. , Francque Sven , Van Gaal Luc , Clement Karine , Ratziu Vlad , Dufour Jean-Francois , Day Christopher P. , Daly Ann K. , Anstee Quentin M.
Published: June 2014

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an increasingly common condition, strongly associated with the metabolic syndrome, that can lead to progressive hepatic fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatic failure. Subtle inter-patient genetic variation and environmental factors combine to determine variation in disease progression. A common non-synonymous polymorphism in TM6SF2 (rs58542926 c.449 C>T, p.Glu167Lys) was recently associated with increased hepatic triglyceride content, but whether this variant promotes clinically relevant hepatic fibrosis is unknown. Here we confirm that TM6SF2 minor allele carriage is associated with NAFLD and is causally related to a previously reported chromosome 19 GWAS signal that was ascribed to the gene NCAN. Furthermore, using two histologically characterized cohorts encompassing steatosis, steatohepatitis, fibrosis and cirrhosis (combined n=1,074), we demonstrate a new association, independent of potential confounding factors (age, BMI, type 2 diabetes mellitus and PNPLA3 rs738409 genotype), with advanced hepatic fibrosis/cirrhosis. These findings establish new and important clinical relevance to TM6SF2 in NAFLD.
Correlation network analysis reveals relationships between diet-induced changes in human gut microbiota and metabolic health
Authors: Kelder T , Stroeve J H M , Bijlsma S , Radonjic M , Roeselers G
Published: June 2014

Background:

Recent evidence suggests that the gut microbiota plays an important role in human metabolism and energy homeostasis and is therefore a relevant factor in the assessment of metabolic health and flexibility. Understanding of these host–microbiome interactions aids the design of nutritional strategies that act via modulation of the microbiota. Nevertheless, relating gut microbiota composition to host health states remains challenging because of the sheer complexity of these ecosystems and the large degrees of interindividual variation in human microbiota composition.

Methods:

We assessed fecal microbiota composition and host response patterns of metabolic and inflammatory markers in 10 apparently healthy men subjected to a high-fat high-caloric diet (HFHC, 1300 kcal/day extra) for 4 weeks. DNA was isolated from stool and barcoded 16S rRNA gene amplicons were sequenced. Metabolic health parameters, including anthropomorphic and blood parameters, where determined at t=0 and t=4 weeks.

Results:

A correlation network approach revealed diet-induced changes in Bacteroides levels related to changes in carbohydrate oxidation rates, whereas the change in Firmicutes correlates with changes in fat oxidation. These results were confirmed by multivariate models. We identified correlations between microbial diversity indices and several inflammation-related host parameters that suggest a relation between diet-induced changes in gut microbiota diversity and inflammatory processes.

Conclusions:

This approach allowed us to identify significant correlations between abundances of microbial taxa and diet-induced shifts in several metabolic health parameters. Constructed correlation networks provide an overview of these relations, revealing groups of correlations that are of particular interest for explaining host health aspects through changes in the gut microbiota.
Controlled Vapor Phase Growth of Single Crystalline, Two-Dimensional GaSe Crystals with High Photoresponse
Authors: Li Xufan , Lin Ming-Wei , Puretzky Alexander A. , Idrobo Juan C. , Ma Cheng , Chi Miaofang , Yoon Mina , Rouleau Christopher M. , Kravchenko Ivan I. , Geohegan David B. , Xiao Kai
Published: June 2014

Compared with their bulk counterparts, atomically thin two-dimensional (2D) crystals exhibit new physical properties and have the potential to enable next-generation electronic and optoelectronic devices. However, controlled synthesis of large uniform monolayer and multi-layer 2D crystals is still challenging. Here, we report the controlled synthesis of 2D GaSe crystals on SiO2/Si substrates using a vapor phase deposition method. For the first time, uniform, large (up to ~60 μm in lateral size), single-crystalline, triangular monolayer GaSe crystals were obtained and their structure and orientation were characterized from atomic scale to micrometer scale. The size, density, shape, thickness and uniformity of the 2D GaSe crystals were shown to be controllable by growth duration, growth region, growth temperature and argon carrier gas flow rate. The theoretical modeling of the electronic structure and Raman spectroscopy demonstrate a direct-to-indirect bandgap transition and progressive confinement-induced bandgap shifts for 2D GaSe crystals. The 2D GaSe crystals show p-type semiconductor characteristics and high photoresponsivity (~1.7 A/W under white light illumination) comparable to exfoliated GaSe nanosheets. These 2D GaSe crystals are potentially useful for next-generation electronic and optoelectronic devices such as photodetectors and field-effect transistors.
The image-scratch paradigm: a new paradigm for evaluating infants' motivated gaze control
Authors: Miyazaki Michiko , Takahashi Hideyuki , Rolf Matthias , Okada Hiroyuki , Omori Takashi
Published: June 2014

Human infants show spontaneous behaviours such as general movement, goal-directed behaviour and self-motivated behaviour from a very early age. However, it is unclear how these behaviours are organised throughout development. A major hindrance to empirical investigation is that there is no common paradigm for all ages that can circumvent infants' underdeveloped verbal and motor abilities. Here, we propose a new paradigm, named the image-scratch task, using a gaze-contingent technique that is adaptable to various extents of motor ability. In this task, participants scratch off a black layer on a display to uncover pictures beneath it by using their gaze. We established quantitative criteria for spontaneous eye-movement based on adults' gaze-data and demonstrated that our task is useful for evaluating eye-movements motivated by outcome attractiveness in 8-month-olds. Finally, we discuss the potential of this paradigm for revealing the mechanisms and developmental transitions underlying infants' spontaneous and intentional behaviours.
A cooperative Pd–Cu system for direct C–H bond arylation
Authors: Lesieur Mathieu , Lazreg Faïma , Cazin Catherine S. J.
Published: June 2014

A dual metal system bearing NHCs has been developed for the challenging construction of C–C bonds from arenes and heteroarenes.
Synthesis and characterization of two-dimensional Nb4C3 (MXene)
Authors: Ghidiu M. , Naguib M. , Shi C. , Mashtalir O. , Pan L. M. , Zhang B. , Yang J. , Gogotsi Y. , Billinge S. J. L. , Barsoum M. W.
Published: June 2014

By etching Nb4AlC3 powders in hydrofluoric acid, a phase-pure, highly conductive, Nb4C3 MXene – the second with formula M4X3 – was produced. The latter's structure was investigated using pair distribution function analysis.
4-Phosphothiophen-2-yl alanine: a new 5-membered analogue of phosphotyrosine
Authors: Lilley Matthew , Mambwe Bezaleel , Jackson Richard F. W. , Muimo Richmond
Published: June 2014

Polyclonal antibodies raised against 4-phosphothiophen-2-yl alanine showed high selectivity for phosphotyrosine and no cross-reactivity with other phosphorylated amino acids.
Epitope imprinted polyethersulfone beads by self-assembly for target protein capture from the plasma proteome
Authors: Yang Kaiguang , Liu Jianxi , Li Senwu , Li Qinran , Wu Qi , Zhou Yuan , Zhao Qun , Deng Nan , Liang Zhen , Zhang Lihua , Zhang Yukui
Published: June 2014

Self-assembly techniques were applied to fabricate epitope imprinted polyethersulfone beads for target protein capture from the plasma proteome.
The dopamine–MoVI complexation-assisted large-scale aqueous synthesis of a single-layer MoS2/carbon sandwich structure for ultrafast, long-life lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Zhao Chenyang , Kong Junhua , Yang Liping , Yao Xiayin , Phua Si Lei , Lu Xuehong
Published: June 2014

Single-layer MoS2–carbon nanocomposites with a sandwiched structure are facilely prepared via a dopamine–MoVI complexation-assisted aqueous route for the first time.
Merging of inner and outer ruthenium organometallic coordination motifs within an azuliporphyrin framework
Authors: Białek Michał J. , Latos-Grażyński Lechosław
Published: June 2014

Metal(ii) azuliporphyrins bind the Ru4(CO)9 cluster taking advantage of the azulene π-surface fusing two organometallic motifs in the final molecular architecture.
Effect of adhesion and chemokine presentation on T-lymphocyte haptokinesis
Authors: Dominguez George A. , Hammer Daniel A.
Published: June 2014

The random motility of human T-lymphocytes was measured on microcontact printed surfaces containing ICAM-1 and VCAM-1, and the additional effects of the chemokines CCL21 and CCL19 were investigated. This image shows the morphology of human T-lymphocytes on ICAM-1 substrates in the presence of immobilized CCL21, immunostained for actin (in red) and α-tubulin (in green).
Sorting drops and cells with acoustics: acoustic microfluidic fluorescence-activated cell sorter
Authors: Schmid Lothar , Weitz David A. , Franke Thomas
Published: June 2014

We describe a versatile microfluidic fluorescence-activated cell sorter that uses acoustic actuation to sort cells or drops at ultra-high rates.
Synthesis and evaluation of antineurotoxicity properties of an amyloid-β peptide targeting ligand containing a triamino acid
Authors: Honcharenko Dmytro , Bose Partha Pratim , Maity Jyotirmoy , Kurudenkandy Firoz Roshan , Juneja Alok , Flöistrup Erik , Biverstål Henrik , Johansson Jan , Nilsson Lennart , Fisahn André , Strömberg Roger
Published: June 2014

A new triamino acid enables synthesis of an amyloid-β peptide (Aβ) targeting ligand with additional Aβ–ligand interactions that gives protection towards Aβ-induced reduction of gamma oscillations in hippocampal slice preparation.
Predicting the mixture effects of three pesticides by integrating molecular simulation with concentration addition modeling
Authors: Chen Fu , Liu Shu-Shen , Duan Xin-Tian , Xiao Qian-Fen
Published: June 2014

Molecular simulation techniques are used to identify the mode of inhibition of chemicals at the ligand–receptor level.
Enhanced tumor targetability of PEGylated mesoporous silica nanoparticles on in vivo optical imaging according to their size
Authors: Kim Hye Lan , Lee Sang Bong , Jeong Hyeon Jin , Kim Dong Wook
Published: June 2014

The 100–150 nm-sized MSNs showed higher uptake at the tumor site in a particle size-dependent in vivo optical imaging study.
Surfactant-induced coagulation of agarose from aqueous extract of Gracilaria dura seaweed as an energy-efficient alternative to the conventional freeze–thaw process
Authors: Meena Ramavatar , Chaudhary Jai Prakash , Agarwal Pradeep K. , Maiti Pratyush , Chatterjee Shruti , Raval Hiren D. , Agarwal Parinita , Siddhanta Arup K. , Prasad Kamalesh , Ghosh Pushpito K.
Published: June 2014

Surfactant-induced coagulation of agarose from alkali-treated Gracilaria dura seaweed extract (SE) is reported.
Syntheses, structures, and luminescence properties of four metal–organic polymers with undocumented topologies constructed from 3,5-bis((4′-carboxylbenzyl)oxy)benzoate ligand
Authors: Zhang Xiutang , Fan Liming , Song Weikuo , Fan Weiliu , Sun Liming , Zhao Xian
Published: June 2014

Four 3D metal–organic polymers with new topologies based on 3,5-bis((4′-carboxylbenzyl)oxy)benzoic acid were synthesized and characterized.
A facile route to hydrophilic ionic liquids
Authors: Fernandez Alexandra Alvarez , van Dongen Marcel J. A. , Blanco-Ania Daniel , Kouwer Paul H. J.
Published: June 2014

A novel imidazolium precursor for easy access to highly pure conventional and functional hydrophilic liquid crystals.
Improved hydrogen production from formic acid under ambient conditions using a PdAu catalyst on a graphene nanosheets–carbon black support
Authors: Qin Yu-ling , Wang Jian-wei , Wu Yao-ming , Wang Li-min
Published: June 2014

Well-dispersed PdAu nanoparticles grown on graphene nanosheets–carbon black support are synthesizedviaa facile co-reduction method. The as-prepared catalyst manifests high activity in formic acid decomposition at room temperature.
Uncovering the origin of Z-configured double bonds in polyketides: intermediate E-double bond formation during borrelidin biosynthesis
Authors: Kandziora Nadine , Andexer Jennifer N. , Moss Steven J. , Wilkinson Barrie , Leadlay Peter F. , Hahn Frank
Published: June 2014

The dehydratase domain BorDH3 is assayed with a synthetic surrogate of the predicted tetraketide substrate and shown to be E-selective. Detailed NMR spectroscopic analysis of pre-borrelidin assigns the timing of the E-5 Z-isomerization to the very final steps of borrelidin biosynthesis.
RAFT dispersion polymerization of 3-phenylpropyl methacrylate with poly[2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate] macro-CTAs in ethanol and associated thermoreversible polymorphism
Authors: Pei Yiwen , Dharsana Nadia C. , van Hensbergen Johannes A. , Burford Robert P. , Roth Peter J. , Lowe Andrew B.
Published: June 2014

The direct synthesis of methacrylic-based soft polymeric nanoparticles via reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer dispersion polymerization (RAFTDP) is described.
A facile approach to prepare porphyrinic porous aromatic frameworks for small hydrocarbon separation
Authors: Meng Shuang , Ma Heping , Jiang Lingchang , Ren Hao , Zhu Guangshan
Published: June 2014

A series of porphyrin-based porous aromatic frameworks are synthesized through a facile approach, and they possess high adsorption capacity and high adsorption selectivity values of small hydrocarbons.
Controllable synthesis of isoreticular pillared-layer MOFs: gas adsorption, iodine sorption and sensing small molecules
Authors: Hu Xiao-Li , Liu Fu-Hong , Wang Hai-Ning , Qin Chao , Sun Chun-Yi , Su Zhong-Min , Liu Fu-Chen
Published: June 2014

Five isostructural ‘pillared-layer’ MOFs have been constructed depending on the adjustable lengths and functions of pillar ligands. In addition, 1–5 can be used to separate dye molecules based on the size-exclusion effect.
Nitrogen and sulfur co-doped graphene counter electrodes with synergistically enhanced performance for dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Kannan Aravindaraj G. , Zhao Jinxing , Jo Sung Geun , Kang Yong Soo , Kim Dong-Won
Published: June 2014

Uniform co-doping of nitrogen and sulfur on graphene effectively catalyzes the triiodide reduction, resulting in high conversion efficiency of DSSCs.
Organic nanoparticles composed of Fréchet-type dendrons: synthesis, characterization, self-assembly and reversible guest encapsulation
Authors: Krishnakumar Sreedevi , Gopidas Karical R.
Published: June 2014

Novel Fréchet-type dendron based organic nanodots exhibiting stimuli responsive reversible morphological transformation have been synthesized by a one-pot reaction which involves etching off gold core of a gold nanoparticle cored dendrimer. Self-assembled FDNs can be utilized for encapsulation and on-demand release of guests.
Grafting zwitterionic polymer brushes via electrochemical surface-initiated atomic-transfer radical polymerization for anti-fouling applications
Authors: Zhao Wenwen , Ye Qian , Hu Haiyuan , Wang Xiaolong , Zhou Feng
Published: June 2014

Grafting zwitterionic polymer brushes via electrochemically mediated-surface initiated atom transfer radical polymerization for anti-bacterial and anti-fouling applications.
Suppressor of cytokine signalling (SOCS) proteins as guardians of inflammatory responses critical for regulating insulin sensitivity
Authors: Galic Sandra , Sachithanandan Nirupa , Kay Thomas W. , Steinberg Gregory R.
Published: June 2014

Overactivation of immune pathways in obesity is an important cause of insulin resistance and thus new approaches aimed to limit inflammation or its consequences may be effective for treating Type 2 diabetes. The SOCS (suppressors of cytokine signalling) are a family of proteins that play an essential role in mediating inflammatory responses in both immune cells and metabolic organs such as the liver, adipose tissue and skeletal muscle. In the present review we discuss the role of SOCS1 and SOCS3 in controlling immune cells such as macrophages and T-cells and the impact this can have on systemic inflammation and insulin resistance. We also dissect the mechanisms by which SOCS (1–7) regulate insulin signalling in different tissues including their impact on the insulin receptor and insulin receptor substrates. Lastly, we discuss the important findings from SOCS whole-body and tissue-specific null mice, which implicate an important role for these proteins in controlling insulin action and glucose homoeostasis in obesity.