bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pd(OAc)2/PPh3‐Catalyzed Desulfonylative Homocoupling of Arylsulfonyl Chlorides
Authors: Zhao Qiao , Chen Liangshun , Lang Hongyue , Wu Shengying , Wang Limin
Published: March 2015

The Pd‐catalyzed homodimerization with respect to arylsulfonyl chlorides as an efficient method for the synthesis of biaryls has been developed. This desulfonylative reaction which was performed at reflux in 1,4‐dioxane for 4 h under air afforded the desired products in good to excellent yields.
α‐Chymotrypsin‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Bis(indolyl)alkanes in Water
Authors: Sun Dazhao , Jiang Guofang , Xie Zongbo , Le Zhanggao
Published: March 2015

A novel methodology for the synthesis of bis(indolyl)methanes by the reaction of aromatic aldehydes and indole in water has been developed, and a series of desired products were obtained in moderate to excellent yields (from 65% to 97%) using 1.2 mg/mL α‐chymotrypsin as biocatalyst.
DBU‐Mediated Carboxylative Coupling of Primary Amines, Carbon Dioxide and Propargyl Chlorides
Authors: Zhang Wen‐Zhen , Ren Xiang , Lu Xiao‐Bing
Published: March 2015

A carboxylative coupling reaction of various primary amine and 3‐phenyl‐2‐propynyl or 2‐nonynyl chloride in the presence of 8‐diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec‐7‐ene (DBU) using carbon dioxide as carboxylative reagent was presented. This transition‐metal free reaction system shows broad substrate scope and gives a series of propargylcarbamates in moderate to good yield. The obtained N‐alkyl substituted carbamate product can undergo base‐catalyzed intramolecular cyclization reaction to afford functionalized 4‐methylene‐2‐oxazolidinone in good yield.
Transfer Hydrogenation of Ethyl Levulinate to γ‐Valerolactone Catalyzed by Iron Complexes
Authors: Dai Nan , Shang Rui , Fu Mingchen , Fu Yao
Published: March 2015

Conversion of biomass‐derived ethyl levulinate to γ‐valerolactone is realized by using homogeneous iron‐catalyzed transfer hydrogenation (CTH). By utilizing Casey's catalyst and cheap isopropanol as hydrogen source, γ‐valerolactone can be generated in 95% yield. Addition of catalytic amount of base is important to achieve good yield.
Regioselective Oxidation Approaches to Concise Synthesis of (±)‐Canabisin D
Authors: Li Wenling , Liu Qian , Liu Hao , Chen Peilan , Yang Xi , Liu Yingying
Published: March 2015

The regioselective effects of tert‐butyl or bromine as the position‐protecting group of feruloytyamide on the oxidative coupling reactions for the synthesis of natural (±)‐canabisin D were investigated in detail. The coupling yield of 8‐8‐coupled aryldihydronaphthalene product of 5‐Br‐feruloytyamide was higher than that of tert‐butyl substituted precursor under FeCl3·6H2O‐acetone‐water oxidative condition.
A Calculation of the Electron Temperature of Complex Plasma of Noble Gases Mixture in CCRF Discharge
Authors: Orazbayev S. A. , Ussenov Y. A. , Ramazanov T. S. , Dosbolayev M. K. , Utegenov A. U.
Published: April 2015

In this paper the results of studying of the electron temperature of buffer and complex plasmas in mixtures of noble gases (helium + argon) in capacitively coupled radiofrequency (CCRF) discharge are presented. The optical properties of dusty plasma in argon, helium and their mixtures have been studied using optical diagnostic methods. Based on spectral lines of plasma forming gases, the dependence of the electron temperature on gas pressure and discharge power has been determined. The axial distribution of electron temperature in the interelectrode gap has been measured. Measurements have been made using an RF compensated electric probe. The comparison of the experimental results shows that admixture of a small amount of argon to helium leads to a decrease in the electron temperature of buffer plasma. The presence of dust particles in the plasma causes an increase in the electron temperature. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Palladium‐Catalyzed Regioselective Cross‐Dehydrogenative Coupling of Benzofurans with Uracils at Room Temperature
Authors: Kianmehr Ebrahim , Torabi Mehrdad , Rezazadeh Khalkhali Mehran , Faghih Nasser , Khan Khalid Mohammed
Published: March 2015

The Pd‐catalyzed cross‐dehydrogenative coupling (CDC) between two heteroarenes was developed. A variety of benzofuran and uracil derivatives were constructed through C–C bond formation by using CDC reactions. The substrates did not require prefunctionalization, and the products were obtained in good yields with good regioselectivities at room temperature.
Ubiquitous Benzoquinones, Multitalented Compounds for Palladium‐Catalyzed Oxidative Reactions
Authors: Vasseur Alexandre , Muzart Jacques , Le Bras Jean
Published: March 2015

Palladium(II)‐catalyzed procedures often use benzoquinone (BQ) to regenerate the catalyst. Besides its oxidation role, BQ can also promote various steps of the catalytic cycle. This review highlights the multifaceted properties of BQ and its analogues when involved in PdII‐catalyzed oxidative reactions and presents mechanisms proposed in the literature, in some cases with personal observations.
Validity of three rating scales for measuring pain intensity in youths with physical disabilities
Authors: Miró J. , Castarlenas E. , de la Vega R. , Solé E. , Tomé‐Pires C. , Jensen M.P. , Engel J.M. , Racine M.
Published: April 2015

Background

There is growing evidence confirming that youths with physical disabilities are at risk for chronic pain. Although many scales for assessing pain intensity exist, it is unclear whether they are all equally suitable for youths. The aim of this study was to address this knowledge gap by comparing the validity of the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS‐11), the Wong Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale (FACES), and a 6‐point categorical Verbal Rating Scale (VRS‐6) for assessing pain intensity among youths (aged 8–20) with physical disabilities.

Methods

One hundred and thirteen youths (mean age = 14.19 years; SD = 2.9) were interviewed and asked to rate their current pain intensity and recalled (in the past week) worst, least, and average pain with the NRS‐11 and the FACES. Participants were also asked to rate their average pain intensity during the past 4 weeks using a VRS‐6, and were administered measures assessing pain interference, disability and psychological functioning.

Results

Analyses showed that all of the pain intensity measures were associated positively with each other. Nevertheless, the NRS‐11 appeared to out‐perform both the VRS‐6 and in particular the FACES scale with respect to: (1) the associations with the validity criterion (i.e. pain interference, disability and psychological functioning) and (2) a lack of any moderating effect of age on the association between the measure and the criterion variables.

Conclusions

The findings support the validity of the NRS‐11 for assessing pain intensity in youths with physical disabilities between the ages of 8 and 20 years.
Growth kinetics and validation of near‐physiologically synchronized HEK293S Cultures
Authors: Castillo Salvador Alan Eduardo , Fuge Grischa , Jandt Uwe , Zeng An‐Ping
Published: March 2015

For investigation of cell cycle‐specific processes in cell cultures, synchronization methods can be applied, especially when single‐cell analytics are not applicable. Thorough validation is essential to minimize distortions introduced by the synchronization procedure and to derive valid data, which is often neglected. In this study, synchronization has been performed and validated for the first time on a human producer cell line (HEK293S) using counterflow centrifugal elutriation. Two main fractions were obtained, with the amount of G2/M cells reduced to ∼5% in the first fraction, compared to ∼16% in the non‐synchronized state, and enriched to ∼30% in the second fraction. Special care was taken with respect to the extraordinary sensitivity of these cells. Validation of correctness and degree of synchronization were based on DNA content, growth behavior, cell size distribution and consumption and production rates. The resulting cell cycle distributions, effective growth rates, and characteristic cell diameter oscillated concertedly for up to 100 h. To facilitate analysis, a new and simple approach to estimate the cell cycle position is introduced and validated. It shows that after a recovery time of 18–24 h, all relevant properties return to the state of non‐synchronized cultures. This indicates that cell cycle specific analysis can only be valid starting from approximately 18–24 h after synchronization.
Properties of compressed concrete paving units made produced using desulfurization slag
Authors: Kuo Wen‐Ten
Published: March 2015

In this study, natural aggregates were replaced with desulfurization slag aggregates to produce compressed concrete paving units (CCPU), and the engineering properties of the formed paving units were investigated to estimate the use of desulfurization slag in plain concrete products, such as CCPU. The results indicated that the optimal effect could be achieved by producing the CCPU by using the natural fine and coarse aggregates of desulfurization slag. The maximum compressive strength was 63 MPa, and the water absorption was approximately 5.08%; these results meet the basic Grade B CCPU specifications in CNS 13295. In addition, the bending failure load exceeded 12 kN, and satisfactory abrasion resistance was observed. However, the curing time must be extended to 14 days to obtain these effects. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 34: 1365–1371, 2015
Assessing toxicity of copper nanoparticles across five cladoceran species
Authors: Song Lan , Vijver Martina G. , de Snoo Geert R. , Peijnenburg Willie J.G.M.
Published: March 2015

As a result of ever increasing applications, nanoparticles will eventually end up in the environment. However, currently no common principle has been established to help understand the toxicity of nanoparticles (NPs) across species. Therefore, it is difficult to estimate the potential risks of nanoparticles to untested species in the environment. The authors exposed 4 different sizes of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) and 1 submicron-sized copper particle to 5 cladoceran species (Daphnia magna, Daphnia pulex, Daphnia galeata, Ceriodaphnia dubia, and Chydorus sphaericus) to investigate whether morphological attributes of species can help to assess the acute toxicity of CuNPs across species. The results showed that rod-shaped CuNPs caused much lower toxicity to all species than spherical CuNPs. Both the particles and ions contributed to the total toxicity of the CuNP suspensions. Moreover, the toxicity caused by particles in 5 different copper suspensions increases with decreasing body length, surface area, and body volume of neonates of 5 cladoceran species. Especially the correlations between body volume of the 5 cladoceran species tested and the corresponding toxicity caused by 5 different CuNPs were statistically significant, and in all cases radj2 was higher than 0.51 (p < 0.001). The highest correlation was found between body volume and the toxicity of the 78-nm CuNPs (radj2 = 0.95, p < 0.001). To conclude, the correlations between attributes of cladoceran species and the toxicity of CuNPs reported in the present study evoke the possibility to assess and extrapolate the toxicity of nanoparticles across species with similar attributes. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015;34:1863–1869. © 2015 SETAC
Defining and Operationalizing the Construct of Pragmatic Competence: Review and Recommendations
Authors: Laughlin Veronika Timpe , Wain Jennifer , Schmidgall Jonathan
Published: April 2015

This review paper constitutes the first step within a larger research effort to develop an interactive pragmatics learning tool for second and foreign language (L2) learners and users of English. The tool will primarily endeavor to support pragmatics learning within the language use domain “workplace.” Given this superordinate objective, this paper is subdivided into 2 parts. In the first section, we provide a detailed overview of previous (empirical) research, theories, and frameworks of communicative competence to review the role of pragmatics as an essential component ofL2communicative language ability. A principled, systematic, and exhaustive literature search was conducted via key word searches, and the selected literature was categorized and coded usingNVivo10 software. Next, 12 distinct models of communicative language ability that contain components of pragmatic knowledge were identified and analyzed. The commonly identified constitutive components were then reconceptualized into a proposed construct of pragmatic competence. The challenges of operationalizing pragmatic competence in both instruction and assessment are discussed. The second part of the paper constitutes a domain analysis of pragmatics in the language use domain “workplace.” First, the literature is reviewed for communicative tasks and activities that feature prominently in different workplace settings across various English‐speaking countries. Then, we suggest and exemplify different model task types that can be employed in the context of learning and assessment materials that aim to foster pragmatic‐functional awareness in both English as a foreign language (EFL)/English as a second language (ESL) learners and first language (L1) speakers alike.
Preparation, ex situ and in situ Characterization of Gas Diffusion Media Containing and Non‐Containing Carboxymethylcellulose for PEM Fuel Cells
Authors: Latorrata S. , Stampino P. Gallo , Cristiani C. , Dotelli G.
Published: April 2015

In this paper the effect of the addition of carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) to microporous layers (MPLs) formulation is reported and the rheological, morphological and electrical properties of the so‐obtained MPLs are assessed. Two different PTFE/carbon black ratios are considered, with and without CMC in the ink formulation. CMC addition results in a better homogeneity and stability of the inks. Moreover, the presence of CMC leads to a better shear thinning behaviour and to a general increase in viscosity that makes these slurries more appropriate for coating deposition via doctor blade technique. The presence of CMC in MPL formulation also affects the electrochemical performances in terms of I–V curves and impedance spectra. CMC‐containing MPLs show the best performances in terms of generated power at high temperature (80 °C) and low cathodic relative humidity (RH 60 %). Ohmic resistances too, in presence of CMC, are lower than those exhibited by CMC‐free MPLs.
A Multi‐Function Compact Micro‐Channel Reactor Coated with Sulphur Tolerant Catalyst for LPG Steam Reforming
Authors: Reed J. , Chen R. , Dudfield C. , Adcock P.
Published: April 2015

Hydrogen fuelled polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFC) offer clear environmental benefits. Lack of viable hydrogen infrastructure in the near future means that a key issue is availability of hydrogen at the point of use. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) offers advantages as a fuel over other hydrocarbons because there is already an infrastructure in place for remote areas. Hydrogen supply via steam reforming of LPG is therefore a feasible avenue of achieving the environmental benefits. Commercial grade LPG unavoidably contain sulphur as an odorant, the sulphur needs to be removed from the fuel stream before it reaches the reformer catalyst and fuel cell. Utilizing sulphur tolerant catalysts in the reformer leads to a simpler fuel processor design. Thermal management and reforming efficiency has been a challenge for the sulphur tolerant catalysts. In this paper, a multi‐function compact micro‐channel reactor designed for hydrocarbon steam reforming was evaluated for use with LPG. A sulphur tolerant catalyst was wash‐coated on to the reforming layers. The reformer was tested over a wide range of reactor temperatures, steam to carbon ratios and fuel flow rates. Over 60% of H2 composition can be achieved at high reforming temperatures with a LPG supply rate of 0.75 dm3 min−1 (STP) and a S/C ratio of 4.
An Algorithm for On‐line Measurement of the Internal Resistance of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell
Authors: Chen F. , Gao Y.
Published: April 2015

The internal resistance of proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) system is difficult to measure on‐line due to its variation with time. The traditional electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and its variants such as high frequency resistance (HFR) can be used to measure the resistance when the system is in steady state, but they fail in automotive applications where a change in speed or inclination modifications could lead to a sharp fluctuation in demand on power. In order to resolve this problem, a novel algorithm is proposed in this paper to estimate the resistance based on the alternating current (AC) impedance spectroscopy technique by adding an extra term to eliminate the errors caused by voltage variation or when the system is under unsteady state. Numerical simulations show that the proposed algorithm can not only accurately track the variation of the internal resistance, but is also robust against the noises caused by uncertainty and measurements.
Theoretical Analysis of Reaction and Diffusion Processes in a Biofuel Cell Electrode
Authors: Saravanakumar K. , Ganesan SP. , Rajendran L.
Published: April 2015

A mathematical model for reaction diffusion processes in a biofuel cell electrode is discussed. This model is based on reaction diffusion equations containing a non‐linear term related to the rate of the enzyme reaction. Theoretical treatment of a reaction and diffusion processes in a biofuel cell electrode, for the steady and non‐steady state condition is discussed. Approximate analytical expressions for the steady and non‐steady state current density at the electrode surface are calculated by using the new approach to homotopy perturbation method and complex inversion formula. An analytical expression for the steady state current density is compared with numerical results and found to be excellent in agreement. A novel graphical procedure for estimating the Michaelis‐Menten constants and turnover rate solely from the current‐potential curve is suggested. Influence of the controllable parameters such as diffusion of the mediator, Michaelis‐Menten constant for substrate, second‐order rate constant, thickness of the film, turnover rate and initial substrate concentration on the current density are discussed.
Project to bypass the Schwarzkopf Tunnel – Specialised civil engineering for a core project of Deutsche Bahn AG / Bauvorhaben Umfahrung Schwarzkopftunnel – Spezialtiefbau für ein Kernprojekt der Deutschen Bahn AG
Authors: Gutfrucht Manfred , Haugwitz Hans‐Gerd , Schmitz Stefan , Wecker Klaus
Published: April 2015

The line being upgraded (ABS) from Hanau to Nantenbach is part of the about 112 km long Main‐Spessart‐Bahn line between Hanau and Würzburg. The line is a central axis for long‐distance and goods traffic linking the economic centres of the Rhine‐Main region with Würzburg and the region of Franken and with more than 200 trains per day is one of the most heavily trafficked lines of German Railways DB. A key part of the project is the bypassing of the 160 year old Schwarzkopf Tunnel between Laufach and Heigenbrücken.

In order to bypass the Schwarzkopf Tunnel, four new cut‐and‐cover tunnels are being constructed, which requires extensive specialised civil engineering measures. The excavations for the cut‐and‐cover tunnel sections are supported by piled walls, nailed walls and walls with walers. In addition, extensive piled foundations are being provided for the open‐air sections using the continuous flight auger (CFA) method. There is also soil nailing along the existing tracks and temporary and permanent anchoring. The article gives a brief overview of the project and describes examples of the specialised civil engineering methods used through the example of two structures.

Die Ausbaustrecke (ABS) Hanau‐Nantenbach ist Teil der rund 112 km langen Main‐Spessart‐Bahn zwischen Hanau und Würzburg. Die Strecke verbindet als eine zentrale Achse des Fern‐ und Güterverkehrs die Wirtschaftszentren des Rhein‐Main‐Gebietes mit Würzburg und der Region Franken und zählt mit über 200 Zügen täglich zu den am stärksten frequentierten Trassen im Netz der Deutschen Bahn. Kernmaßnahme des Projekts ist die Umfahrung des rund 160 Jahre alten Schwarzkopftunnels zwischen Laufach und Heigenbrücken.

Für die Umfahrung des Schwarzkopftunnels werden vier neue Tunnel teilweise in offener Bauweise errichtet. Dabei sind umfangreiche Spezialtiefbaumaßnahmen zu erbringen. Die Baugruben für die offenen Tunnelabschnitte werden mit Pfahlwänden, Nagel‐ und Verbauwänden gesichert. Außerdem wird für die Bahndämme der neuen Zugtrasse eine umfassende Pfahlgründung im Schneckenortbeton‐Verfahren (SOB‐Verfahren) ausgeführt. Dazu kommen Bodenvernagelungen entlang der Bestandsgleise sowie Aussteifungen und temporäre sowie dauerhafte Verankerungen. Der Beitrag gibt eine kurze Projektübersicht und zeigt anhand zweier Bauwerke die durchgeführten Spezialtiefbauarbeiten beispielhaft auf.
Transmembrane 6 superfamily member 2 gene E167K variant impacts on steatosis and liver damage in chronic hepatitis C patients
Authors: Milano Marta , Aghemo Alessio , Mancina Rosellina Margherita , Fischer Janett , Dongiovanni Paola , De Nicola Stella , Fracanzani Anna Ludovica , D'Ambrosio Roberta , Maggioni Marco , De Francesco Raffaele , Fargion Silvia , Berg Thomas , Stickel Felix , Hampe Jochen , Romeo Stefano , Colombo Massimo , Valenti Luca
Published: March 2015

Steatosis and inherited host factors influence liver damage progression in chronic hepatitis C (CHC). The transmembrane 6 superfamily member 2 (TM6SF2) gene E167K variant increases liver fat and risk of progressive steatohepatitis by interfering with lipoprotein secretion. Our aim was to determine whether the E167K variant affects histological severity of steatosis, necroinflammation, and fibrosis in a cross‐sectional cohort of 815 Italian therapy‐naïve CHC patients. The association with clinically significant fibrosis was replicated in 645 Swiss/German patients. The TM6SF2 E167K variant was genotyped by TaqMan assays, steatosis graded according to the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease activity score, and necroinflammation and fibrosis graded and staged according to Ishak in Italian, and to Metavir in Swiss/German patients. The E167K variant was detected in 69 (9%) Italian patients and was associated with more severe steatosis, independently of confounders (P = 0.038). The association between E167K and steatosis severity was present in patients not infected by genotype 3 (G3) HCV (P = 0.031), but not in those infected by G3 HCV (P = 0.58). Furthermore, the E167K variant was associated with more severe necroinflammation (Ishak grade; adjusted P = 0.037) and nearly associated with more severe fibrosis (Ishak stage; adjusted P = 0.058). At multivariate logistic regression analysis, the E167K variant was independently associated with histologically probable or definite cirrhosis (Ishak stage S6; odds ratio [OR]: 2.19; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.18‐3.93; P = 0.010). After further conditioning for steatosis and necroinflammation, the E167K variant remained associated with cirrhosis (OR, 3.15; 95% CI: 1.60‐5.99; P < 0.001). In Swiss/German patients, the E167K variant was independently associated with clinically significant fibrosis Metavir stage F2‐F4 (OR, 1.81; 95% CI: 1.12‐3.02; P = 0.016). Conclusion: TM6SF2 E167K variant impacts on steatosis severity and is associated with liver damage and fibrosis in patients with CHC. (Hepatology 2015;62:111‐117)
Ledipasvir‐sofosbuvir plus ribavirin for patients with genotype 1 hepatitis C virus previously treated in clinical trials of sofosbuvir regimens
Authors: Wyles David , Pockros Paul , Morelli Giuseppe , Younes Ziad , Svarovskaia Evguenia , Yang Jenny C. , Pang Phillip S. , Zhu Yanni , McHutchison John G. , Flamm Steven , Lawitz Eric
Published: April 2015

Patients who fail to achieve sustained virological response (SVR) after treatment with sofosbuvir (SOF) plus ribavirin (RBV) with or without pegylated interferon (Peg‐IFN) do not have established retreatment options. We conducted an open‐label trial to assess the efficacy and safety of ledipasvir (LDV)‐SOF plus RBV in patients with genotype 1 hepatitis C virus (HCV) who did not achieve SVR after treatment in phase II and III trials of SOF regimens. We enrolled 51 patients at 24 sites in the United States. All patients received the fixed‐dose combination tablet of LDV‐SOF once‐daily plus weight‐based RBV (1,000 or 1,200 mg/day) for 12 weeks. The efficacy endpoint was the proportion of patients with SVR 12 weeks after discontinuation of therapy (SVR12). Of the 51 patients enrolled, 25 (49%) had previously received SOF plus Peg‐IFN‐RBV, 20 (39%) had received SOF‐RBV, 5 (10%) had received SOF placebo plus Peg‐IFN‐RBV, and 1 (2%) received GS‐0938 monotherapy. Fourteen (27%) had compensated cirrhosis at baseline, and 47 (92%) had non‐CC interleukin‐28B genotypes. SVR12 was achieved by 50 of the 51 patients (98%) treated. Among the 45 patients who received SOF in earlier treatment, 44 (98%) achieved SVR12. The only patient who did not achieve SVR12 was a patient with genotype 3a HCV who had been incorrectly genotyped as 1a in the previous study. Given the high rates of SVR12, no differences among patient subgroups were discernible. Of 51 patients, 41 (80%) experienced at least one adverse event (AE), but most events were mild to moderate in severity. The most common AEs were fatigue, headache, and diarrhea. One patient discontinued treatment because of an unrelated AE (bipolar disorder). Conclusion: Twelve weeks of LDV‐SOF plus RBV was an effective and safe treatment for patients who have not achieved SVR with earlier regimens that included SOF. (Hepatology 2015;61:1793–1797)
Salivary microbiota reflects changes in gut microbiota in cirrhosis with hepatic encephalopathy
Authors: Bajaj Jasmohan S. , Betrapally Naga S. , Hylemon Phillip B. , Heuman Douglas M. , Daita Kalyani , White Melanie B. , Unser Ariel , Thacker Leroy R. , Sanyal Arun J. , Kang Dae Joong , Sikaroodi Masoumeh , Gillevet Patrick M
Published: March 2015

Altered gut microbiome is associated with systemic inflammation and cirrhosis decompensation. However, the correlation of the oral microbiome with inflammation in cirrhosis is unclear. Our aim was to evaluate the oral microbiome in cirrhosis and compare with stool microbiome. Outpatients with cirrhosis (with/without hepatic encephalopathy [HE]) and controls underwent stool/saliva microbiome analysis (for composition and function) and also systemic inflammatory evaluation. Ninety‐day liver‐related hospitalizations were recorded. Salivary inflammation was studied using T helper 1 cytokines/secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA), histatins and lysozyme in a subsequent group. A total of 102 patients with cirrhosis (43 previous HE) and 32 age‐matched controls were included. On principal component analysis (PCA), stool and saliva microbiome clustered far apart, showing differences between sites as a whole. In salivary microbiome, with previous HE, relative abundance of autochthonous families decreased whereas potentially pathogenic ones (Enterobacteriaceae, Enterococcaceae) increased in saliva. Endotoxin‐related predicted functions were significantly higher in cirrhotic saliva. In stool microbiome, relative autochthonous taxa abundance reduced in previous HE, along with increased Enterobacteriaceae and Enterococcaceae. Cirrhotic stool microbiota demonstrated a significantly higher correlation with systemic inflammation, compared to saliva microbiota, on correlation networks. Thirty‐eight patients were hospitalized within 90 days. Their salivary dysbiosis was significantly worse and predicted this outcome independent of cirrhosis severity. Salivary inflammation was studied in an additional 86 age‐matched subjects (43 controls/43 patients with cirrhosis); significantly higher interleukin (IL)−6/IL‐1β, secretory IgA, and lower lysozyme, and histatins 1 and 5 were found in patients with cirrhosis, compared to controls. Conclusions: Dysbiosis, represented by reduction in autochthonous bacteria, is present in both saliva and stool in patients with cirrhosis, compared to controls. Patients with cirrhosis have impaired salivary defenses and worse inflammation. Salivary dysbiosis was greater in patients with cirrhosis who developed 90‐day hospitalizations. These findings could represent a global mucosal‐immune interface change in cirrhosis. (Hepatology 2015;62:1260‐1271)
Reclaimed Water Filtration Efficiency and Drip Irrigation Emitter Performance with Different Combinations of Sand and Disc Filters
Authors: Wen‐Yong Wu , Yan Huang , Hong‐Lu Liu , Shi‐Yang Yin , Yong Niu
Published: March 2015

Filters are the most important components in micro‐irrigation systems, in particular for filtering high levels of suspended solids in reclaimed water. An experiment was conducted using reclaimed water to evaluate the removal efficiencies of sand filters with different uniformity coefficients (UCS) and in combination with sand filters with a 130 µm disc filter (120‐mesh). The treatment effects on emitter discharge were also investigated in this study. The results showed that the sand filters exhibited removal efficiencies of 11.4–48.0%, increasing to 30.7–80.3% when combined with the disc filter. The sand filter removal efficiency decreased with increase of the media diameter. A linear‐plateau relationship was observed between the removal efficiency and UCS. Compared to the control group, the combined filters reduced emitter clogging and significantly prevented a decrease in emitter discharge. It is suggested using the equivalent diameter, dt, to represent the filter medium diameter instead of using the effective diameter, de. The recommended value for the sand filter UCS > 2.0 for a mean total suspended solids (TSS) of 17.5 ± 12.7 mg l−1. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
PERSONAL SPACE AMONGST ARABS AND AMERICANS*
Authors: Sanders Jeffrey L. , Hakky Ulfat M. , Brizzolara Mary M.
Published: March 2015

Personal space zones were examined amongst Arab and American university students by jointly varying degree of acquaintanceship and sex of subject. Overall, there were few differences between Arab and American males. Arab females, however, showed dramatic differences in comparison to American males and females and to Arab males. Arab females kept male friends very far away relative to female friends. Indeed, male friends were kept almost as far away as male strangers.
THE INFLUENCE OF ETHNOCENTRISM AND ETHNIC LABEL ON THE APPRECIATION OF DISPARAGEMENT JOKES*
Authors: Gallois Cynthia , Callan Victor J.
Published: March 2015

This study examined the relationship of ethnocentrism and the presence of an ethnic label to the humor appreciation of jokes with socially acceptable or unacceptable aggressors and victims. Forty high ethnocentrics and 40 low ethnocentrics, half males and half females, each read 12 jokes which varied in the acceptability of aggressor and victim and in the ethnic combination of the characters (neutral aggressor and victim, neutral aggressor and ethnic victim, ethnic aggressor and neutral victim). They rated these jokes on humor, as well as justifiability, hostility, and acceptability of aggressor and victim. Results indicated that high ethnocentrics, but not the low ones, found jokes with neutral aggressors and ethnic victims funnier. In addition, all subjects gave higher humor ratings to jokes with justified aggression. Thus, both ethnic stereotypes and the particular description of the characters appear to be significant influences on humor ratings in disparagement jokes.
New ways to boost molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Krieger Elmar , Vriend Gert
Published: March 2015

We describe a set of algorithms that allow to simulate dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR, a common benchmark) with the AMBER all‐atom force field at 160 nanoseconds/day on a single Intel Core i7 5960X CPU (no graphics processing unit (GPU), 23,786 atoms, particle mesh Ewald (PME), 8.0 Å cutoff, correct atom masses, reproducible trajectory, CPU with 3.6 GHz, no turbo boost, 8 AVX registers). The new features include a mixed multiple time‐step algorithm (reaching 5 fs), a tuned version of LINCS to constrain bond angles, the fusion of pair list creation and force calculation, pressure coupling with a “densostat,” and exploitation of new CPU instruction sets like AVX2. The impact of Intel's new transactional memory, atomic instructions, and sloppy pair lists is also analyzed. The algorithms map well to GPUs and can automatically handle most Protein Data Bank (PDB) files including ligands. An implementation is available as part of the YASARA molecular modeling and simulation program from www.YASARA.org. © 2015 The Authors Journal of Computational Chemistry Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evaluation of Toxocara cati Excretory–Secretory Larval Antigens in Serodiagnosis of Human Toxocariasis
Authors: Zibaei Mohammad , Sadjjadi Seyed Mahmoud , Sarkari Bahador , Uga Shoji
Published: April 2015

Background

Toxocariasis is the clinical term that is applied to infection in the human host with Toxocara species larvae. Serological tests are important tools for the diagnosis of toxocariasis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the excretory–secretory (ES) antigens of T. cati larvae using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and also Western blotting for serodiagnosis of human toxocariasis.

Method

The ES antigens were prepared from T. cati third‐stage larvae. Serum samples were obtained from 33 confirmed cases of toxocariasis, 35 patients infected with other parasitic diseases, and 30 from healthy individuals tested with ELISA and immunoblotting.

Results

The ELISA showed appropriate performance in term of specificity (96.7%) and sensitivity (97.0%). Electrophoretic analysis of T. cati ES antigens revealed a range of 20‐ to 150‐kDa fractions. The highest sensitivity was achieved with 42‐ and 50‐kDa fractions.

Conclusion

The ELISA analyses using T. cati ES antigens demonstrated good sensitivity and specificity compared to T. canis ES as antigens for diagnosis of human toxocariasis. Accordingly, application of Western blotting, based on 42‐ and 50‐kDa fractions of ES antigens, can be recommended for the accurate diagnosis of toxocariasis.
Hyperosmolarity‐Induced Down‐Regulation of Claudin‐2 Mediated by Decrease in PKCβ‐Dependent GATA‐2 in MDCK Cells
Authors: Ikari Akira , Fujii Naoko , Hahakabe Shinya , Hayashi Hisayoshi , Yamaguchi Masahiko , Yamazaki Yasuhiro , Endo Satoshi , Matsunaga Toshiyuki , Sugatani Junko
Published: March 2015

Hyperosmolarity decreases claudin‐2 expression in renal tubular epithelial cells, but the molecular mechanism remains undefined. Here, we found that the hyperosmolarity‐induced decrease in claudin‐2 expression is inhibited by Go6983, a non‐selective protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor, and PKCβ specific inhibitor in Madin‐Darby canine kidney II cells. Hyperosmolarity increased intracellular free Ca2+ concentration and phosphorylated PKCβ level, which were inhibited by RN‐1734, an antagonist of transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 channel. Phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate, a PKC activator, decreased claudin‐2 expression. These results indicate hyperosmolarity decreases claudin‐2 expression mediated by the activation of RN‐1734‐sensitive channel and PKCβ. Hyperosmolarity decreased promoter activity of claudin‐2, which was inhibited by Go6983 and PKCβ inhibitor similar to those in real‐time PCR and Western blotting. The effect of hyperosmolarity on promoter activity was not observed in the construct of −469/−6, a deletion mutant. Claudin‐2 has hyperosmolarity‐sensitive region in its promoter, which includes GATA binding site. Hyperosmolarity decreased the nuclear level of GATA‐2, which was inhibited by Go6983 and PKCβ inhibitor. Mutation of GATA binding site decreased the basal promoter activity and inhibited the effect of hyperosmolarity. In contrast, the hyperosmolarity‐induced decrease in reporter activity and claudin‐2 expression were rescued by over‐expression of wild type GATA‐2. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay showed that GATA‐2 bound to promoter region of claudin‐2. These results suggest that hyperosmolarity decreases the expression level of claudin‐2 via a decrease in PKCβ‐dependent GATA‐2 transcriptional activity in renal tubular epithelial cells. J. Cell. Physiol. 9999: 2776–2787, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of titanium carbonitride (Ti(C,N)) decomposition on failure mechanisms in inconel 617 alloy
Authors: Krishna Ram , Hainsworth Sarah V. , Gill Simon P. A. , Atkinson Helen V.
Published: April 2015

Titanium Carbonitride (Ti(C,N)) decomposition in Inconel 617 alloy creep‐exposed at 650°C for 574 hours is reported using analytical electron microscopy techniques. Cr‐enriched M23C6‐type carbides enveloped in fine gamma prime particles thought to be precipitated from the decomposition reaction are observed in the alloy. The morphology of the M23C6 carbides is irregular and blocky and the particle size up to 5μm, whereas the morphology of gamma prime particles is mostly spherical and up to 30 nm in size. Intergranular carbides are mostly secondary precipitates of the M23Cc type (M predominantly Cr) and these respond to solution heat treatment and precipitate on the grain boundaries as a result of ageing. The ability of intragranular MX to decompose is sensitive to the N content, high N resists decomposition. Decomposed intragranular MX provides an excess source of C which can react locally with Cr to form heat treatable intragranular fine Cr23C6 precipitates. M6C can segregate in interdendritic locations during melting which may be the reason for high content of Mo in M23C6. These precipitates are generally very small and contribute to an additional hardening effect and are the reason for the onset of voiding and cracking along the grain boundaries that ultimately lead to a reduced creep rupture life. Microsc. Res. Tech. 78:336–342, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Neurocognitive Performance of Female Veterans With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Stricker Nikki H. , Keller Jenna E. , Castillo Diane T. , Haaland Kathleen Y.
Published: April 2015

Neurocognitive problems are common with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and are important to understand because of their association with the success of PTSD treatment and its potential neural correlates. To our knowledge, this is the first neurocognitive study in an all‐female U.S. veteran sample, some of whom had PTSD. We examined neurocognitive performance and assessed whether learning deficits, common in PTSD, were associated with executive functioning. Veterans with PTSD (n = 56) and without (n = 53) were evaluated for psychiatric and neurocognitive status. The PTSD group had a lower estimated IQ (d = 0.53) and performed more poorly on all neurocognitive domains (d range = 0.57–0.88), except verbal retention (d = 0.04). A subset of the 2 groups that were matched on IQ and demographics similarly demonstrated poorer performance for the PTSD group on all neurocognitive domains (d range = 0.52–0.79), except verbal retention (d = 0.15). Within the PTSD group, executive functioning accounted for significant variance in verbal learning over and above IQ and processing speed (ΔR2 = .06), as well as depression (ΔR2 = .07) and PTSD severity (ΔR2 = .06). This study demonstrated that female veterans with PTSD performed more poorly than females without PTSD on several neurocognitive domains, including verbal learning, processing speed, and executive functioning. Replication of these results using a control group of veterans with more similar trauma exposure, history of mild traumatic brain injury, and psychiatric comorbidities would solidify these findings.
Perceived and desired outcomes of suburban deer management methods
Authors: Urbanek Rachael E. , Nielsen Clayton K. , Davenport Mae A. , Woodson Brad D.
Published: March 2015

Disparity among natural resource agencies and the public often arises when white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) are managed in suburban areas. To resolve conflicts, managers require information as to why public constituents deem deer management methods acceptable. We surveyed 660 residents in a suburban Illinois county to evaluate attitudes toward 5 deer management methods: archery hunts, gun hunts, sharpshooting, fertility control, and no management. We used the expectancy‐value model to determine beliefs and desires regarding outcomes of deer management methods that drove respondent acceptance and rejection toward deer management regimes. We then used multinomial logistic regression models to determine which public beliefs and desires regarding outcomes of each deer management method predicted acceptance of each method. Attitudes of respondents who accepted and rejected each deer management method differed from respondents who were neutral toward the methods (F2,215 = 3.59–17.93; 0.001 ≥ P ≤ 0.029). The variables most influencing beliefs toward lethal methods regarded whether deer will suffer an inhumane or unnatural death due to the management method (Akaike relative weight ω ≥ 0.95). Beliefs that damage to personal property from deer will decrease drove the acceptance of archery hunts and professional sharpshooting (ω ≥ 0.95). Beliefs regarding the number of deer‐vehicle collisions decreasing and deer dying an unnatural death had the strongest support for predicting a person's acceptance or rejection of fertility control (ω = 0.98). The desire for a low‐cost management technique and deer numbers to remain the same or increase were the strongest predictors for accepting no deer management (ω = 0.96). Although the expectancy‐value model offers the framework to identify attitudinal disparities among citizens who accept and reject deer management methods, not all of the variables in each model set provided further information on why attitudes toward each deer management method differed among residents. Understanding respondent beliefs and desires regarding outcomes of deer management methods will ultimately allow managers to guide education, resolve some management disputes, and aid in future management decisions that may increase the effectiveness of a deer management regime. © 2015 The Wildlife Society.
Impact of experimental habitat manipulation on northern bobwhite survival
Authors: Peters David C. , Brooke Jarred M. , Tanner Evan P. , Unger Ashley M. , Keyser Patrick D. , Harper Craig A. , Clark Joseph D. , Morgan John J.
Published: March 2015

Habitat management for northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) should affect vital rates, but direct linkages with survival are not well documented; therefore, we implemented an experiment to evaluate those responses. We conducted our experiment on a reclaimed surface mine, a novel landscape where conditions were considered sub‐optimal because of the dominance of non‐native vegetation, such as sericea lespedeza (Lespedeza cuneata), which has been reported to provide marginal habitat for northern bobwhite and may negatively affect survival. Nonetheless, these areas have great potential for contributing to bobwhite conservation because of the amount of early successional cover they provide. Our study site, a 3,330‐ha reclaimed surface mine in western Kentucky, consisted of 2 tracts (Sinclair and Ken, 1,471 ha and 1,853 ha, respectively) that served as replicates with each randomly divided into a treatment (i.e., habitat manipulation through a combination of disking, burning, and herbicide application) and an undisturbed control (n = 4 experimental units). Habitat treatments were applied October 2009 to September 2013. We used radio telemetry to monitor northern bobwhite (n = 1,198) during summer (1 Apr–30 Sep) and winter (1 Oct–31 Mar), 2009–2013. We used the known‐fate model in Program MARK to evaluate treatment effects on seasonal survival rates. We included biological, home‐range, landscape, and microhabitat metrics as covariates to help improve model sensitivity and further elucidate experimental impacts. Survival varied annually, ranging from 0.139 (SE = 0.031) to 0.301 (SE = 0.032), and seasonally (summer, 0.148 [SE = 0.015]; winter, 0.281 [SE = 0.022]). We found a treatment effect (β = 0.256, 95% CI = 0.057–0.456) with a seasonal interaction (β = −0.598, 95% CI = −0.898 to −0.298) with survival being higher in summer (0.179 [SE = 0.022] vs. 0.109 [SE = 0.019]) and lower in winter (0.233 [SE = 0.025] vs. 0.355 [SE = 0.035]) on treatment than control units. Among habitat covariates, litter depth (β = −0.387, 95%CI = −0.5809 to −0.1930) was the most influential effect (negative) on survival. Additional experiments across a wider range of habitat conditions may be required to determine management intensity or duration thresholds required to elicit greater changes in survival for northern bobwhite populations. Published 2015. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Hypoglossal nerve paralysis results in hypermetabolic activity on positron emission tomography/computed tomography in the contralateral tongue
Authors: Timbang Mary R. , Trosman Samuel J. , Lorenz Robert R.
Published: March 2015

False‐positive results on combined positron emission tomography/computed tomography can complicate detection and surveillance of head and neck cancers. We present a rare case of false‐positive contralateral [18F]‐2‐fluoro‐2‐deoxy‐D‐glucose tongue uptake after hypoglossal nerve paralysis caused by squamous cell carcinoma originating from the base of the tongue. Laryngoscope, 125:1382–1384, 2015
Hearing function after intratympanic application of gadolinium‐based contrast agent: A long‐term evaluation
Authors: Louza Julia , Krause Eike , Gürkov Robert
Published: March 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

The aim of this study was to evaluate the long‐term influence of intratympanic gadolinium‐based contrast agent on hearing function in patients with possible Ménière's disease and normal auditory thresholds who were undergoing locally enhanced magnetic resonance imaging scans.

Study Design

Prospective observational cohort study in a tertiary referral university hospital ear, nose, and throat department.

Methods

Between 2009 and 2012, 17 patients with possible or probable Ménière's disease and a four‐tone pure‐tone average baseline of <25 dB were recruited for our study. Before undergoing intratympanic injection of gadolinium‐based contrast agent, all patients underwent a complete audiological evaluation. The study population was then invited back after at least 6 months postinjection for a follow‐up auditory evaluation. This consisted of comprehensive clinical and audiological tests on both sides and were evaluated according to the ototoxicity guidelines.

Results

A long‐term evaluation of our study group revealed no significant difference in the air‐conduction pure‐tone average. Furthermore, no statistical difference at individual frequencies compared to baseline was found. There was no evidence of ototoxicity in the injected ear.

Conclusions

Long‐term hearing function assessment after intratympanic application of gadolinium‐based agent showed no evidence of ototoxicity. The use of intratympanic gadolinium‐based agent in the diagnosis of Ménièrés disease is currently a helpful tool, and seems to be a safe method, especially with regard to auditory function.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 125:2366–2370, 2015
Beam Shaping for Advanced Laser Materials Processing
Authors: Fuse Keiji
Published: April 2015

For recent industrial materials processing with advanced high power lasers, beam shaping optics are utilized as a key technology. Aspheric or diffractive beam shapers transform a Gaussian intensity profile of a single mode (TEM00) laser beam into a flattop one. While an aspheric beam shaper can make a circular flattop, a diffractive one can realize much flexibility in output beam shapes, like square, rectangular, linear, or other complex beam shapes. The beam shaping is often combined with a scanning optical system, consisting of galvanometric mirrors and an f‐theta lens. Those beam shapers are used for either pulsed or CW single mode laser applications, i. e. ablation, cutting, drilling, scribing, annealing, etc. of thin films or bulk materials. This article describes principles, design concepts and specification examples of those optical systems used in practical applications.