bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of N-alkyl chain length on the photophysical properties of indene-1,3-dionemethylene-1,4-dihydropyridine derivatives
Authors: Liu Yanze , Lei Yunxiang , Liu Miaochang , Li Fei , Xiao Hongping , Chen Jiuxi , Huang Xiaobo , Gao Wenxia , Wu Huayue , Cheng Yixiang
Published: May 2016

AIEE-active indene-1,3-dionemethylene-1,4-dihydropyridine derivatives exhibit reversible alkyl-length-dependent mechanofluorochromic properties.
Investigation of an asymmetrical E‐shaped dielectric resonator antenna with wideband characteristics
Authors: Gupta Ravi D. , Parihar Manoj S.
Published: May 2016

A novel low profile dielectric resonator antenna (DRA) is presented in this study for broadband applications. An asymmetric E‐shaped dielectric resonator is analysed and optimised numerically as a wideband radiator. The fundamental mode is excited along with three nearest higher modes inside the DRA. A detailed impedance transformation is discussed to merge these modes collectively resulting in a single wideband operation. A microstrip fed conformal strip is used to stimulate the DRA. The proposed DRA is fabricated and tested. For |S11| ≤ −10 dB, the DRA offers a frequency band of 6.0–10.2 GHz with an impedance bandwidth of 52%. The measured and calculated results are compared and found in good match. The DRA's radiation characteristics are measured at different frequencies. A stable radiation pattern is observed throughout the band of operation. The measured gain of the wideband antenna is ranging from 4.5 to 8.1 dBi.
Architecture of green sensor mobile cloud computing
Authors: De Debashis , Mukherjee Anwesha , Ray Anindita , Roy Deepsubhra Guha , Mukherjee Suchismita
Published: May 2016

This study presents an architecture of green sensor mobile cloud computing which integrates sensor network and mobile network with cloud computing. In the proposed scheme, the sensor data are transmitted to the cloud through a mobile device. To develop the proposed architecture both the indoor and outdoor region are considered. For indoor region light weight access point and home node base station are used by the mobile device for sensor data transmission to the cloud, whereas for outdoor region macrocell and microcell base stations are used. Simulation results present that using home node base station the power consumption at indoor region can be reduced by ∼10% than the light weight access point, and using microcell base station at outdoor region the power consumption can be reduced by ∼30% than the macrocell base station. Hence, using home node base station and microcell base station green sensor mobile cloud computing can be obtained at indoor and outdoor regions, respectively. In this study, an experimental analysis of the proposed architecture is also performed.
Cross‐polarisation discrimination‐induced interference in dual‐polarised high‐capacity satellite communication systems
Authors: Karasuwa Abdulkareem Sarki , Eastment Jon D. , Otung Ifiok E.
Published: May 2016

The design of spectrally‐efficient, high‐throughput satellite (HTS) systems with capacity approaching one terabit per second requires operating at Ka‐band frequencies and above, where there are several gigahertz of allocated radio spectrum, using multiple spot beams with dual orthogonal polarisation mode. At these high frequencies, rain attenuation poses a major obstacle to the design of high‐availability satellite links which are needed for the realisation of ubiquitous broadband multimedia communication services including high‐speed Internet access at rural and remote locations. Furthermore, depolarisation‐induced interference in such systems could have a performance‐limiting impact if a co‐channel cross‐polar signal combines with system noise to drive the carrier‐to‐noise‐plus‐interference ratio (CNIR) below an acceptable threshold. This paper employs real measurement data to investigate the impact of depolarisation‐induced interference on dual‐polarised HTS systems for temperate and tropical climatic regions. Scenarios that cause significant system performance degradation are analysed, including the effects of signal frequency, antenna size, and regional rainfall rate. The impact of depolarisation on system performance is quantified by the reductions in the CNIR and link availability of a dual‐polarised system when compared with those of a similarly‐dimensioned single‐polarised system.
27.1.7 Sulfur Ylides (Update 2014)
Authors: Mlostoń G. , Heimgartner H.
Published: May 2016

A comprehensive update of methods for the in situ generation of sulfonium ylides (sulfonium methanides, Corey–Chaykovsky reagents) and their applications for the synthesis of more complex molecules via methylene transfer is presented. Sulfonium ylides are widely applied in synthetically relevant reactions, such as cyclopropanation, aziridination, and epoxidation. Asymmetric versions of these processes are also summarized. In the presence of appropriate catalysts, preferably metal salts and/or complexes of gold or palladium, sulfonium ylides can undergo cascade heterocyclizations or C—H-insertion reactions.
4.4.5 Product Subclass 5: Disilanes and Oligosilanes
Authors: Marschner C. , Baumgartner J.
Published: May 2016

This chapter is a revision of the earlier Science of Synthesis contribution describing methods for the preparation and synthetic use of disilanes. This update is extended by coverage of synthetically useful oligosilanes.
4.4.22 Product Subclass 22: Silyl Phosphines
Authors: Hayashi M.
Published: May 2016

This chapter is a revision of the earlier Science of Synthesis contribution, published in 2001, describing methods for the synthesis of silyl phosphines and their applications in organic synthesis. In contrast to the earlier contribution, in which the applications of silyl phosphines were described only very briefly, in this revision the applications of silyl phosphines are classified and summarized and include recent improvements, especially with regard to P—C bond formation.
4.4.45 Product Subclass 45: Silanecarboxylic Acids and Esters
Authors: Igawa K. , Tomooka K.
Published: May 2016

Silanecarboxylic acids having a carboxy group on the silicon atom are synthesized from chlorosilanes via their reductive lithiation and subsequent carboxylation with carbon dioxide. Silanecarboxylic acid esters are synthesized from silanecarboxylic acids by O-alkylation with diazoalkanes or by the Mitsunobu reaction with alcohols.
4.4.34.35 Vinylsilanes (Update 2015)
Authors: Anderson E. A. , Lim D. S. W.
Published: May 2016

This chapter is an update to the earlier Science of Synthesis contribution (Section 4.4.34) describing methods for the synthesis of vinylsilanes. It focuses on the literature published in the period 2000–2014, with a particular emphasis on metal-catalyzed methods.
18.11.10 Seleno- and Tellurocarbonic Acids and Derivatives (Update 2013)
Authors: Shimada K.
Published: May 2016

This chapter is an update to the earlier Science of Synthesis contribution describing methods for the synthesis of seleno- and tellurocarbonic acids and their derivatives. It focuses on the literature published in the period 2002–2012.
19.5.14.15 Synthesis from Nitriles with Retention of the Cyano Group (Update 2013)
Authors: Mase N.
Published: May 2016

This is an update to the original Section 19.5.14, which deals with synthesis from nitriles with retention of the cyano group. In order to cover significant recent developments, this update focuses on organocatalytic reactions of nitriles. These reactions are classified into two reaction modes: (1) reactions of nucleophiles containing a cyano group with electrophiles, and (2) reactions of nucleophiles with electrophiles containing a cyano group. In this update, significant achievements made employing asymmetric organocatalysts from the years 2000–2012 are highlighted.
31.4.1.3 Hypervalent Iodoarenes and Aryliodonium Salts (Update 2015)
Authors: Zhdankin V. V.
Published: May 2016

This chapter provides an update to the earlier Science of Synthesis contribution (Section 31.4.1) describing the preparation and synthetic applications of hypervalent iodoarenes and aryliodonium salts. Recently, the chemistry of hypervalent iodine compounds has experienced several significant new developments, the most important of which are represented by the discovery of catalytic reactions promoted by in situ generated hypervalent iodine species, the development of highly enantioselective reactions of chiral hypervalent iodine reagents, and the preparation and synthetic application of numerous recyclable hypervalent iodine reagents.
35.2.5.1.9 Synthesis by Addition across C=C Bonds (Update 2015)
Authors: Dagousset G. , Masson G.
Published: May 2016

This chapter is an update to the earlier Science of Synthesis Section 35.2.5.1, written by Troll in 2006, on the synthesis of 1-bromo-n-heteroatom-functionalized alkanes (n ≥2), with both functions formed simultaneously by addition across C=C bonds. It focuses on recent advances in the field of bromofunctionalization of alkenes in the period 2007–2014, in particular on catalytic enantioselective syntheses.
3.1.1.2 Alkenes with Allylic Substitution and Homologues as Reaction Components
Authors: Le Bras J. , Muzart J.
Published: May 2016

The intermolecular coupling of aryl or vinyl halides (or pseudohalides) with linear alkenes having an allylic or homoallylic heteroatomic substituent occurs under palladium-catalyzed conditions. The 1,2-insertion of the aryl- or vinylpalladium intermediate into the double bond is followed by the elimination of either a hydride or the heteroatomic substituent. This chapter focuses on selective procedures.
3.3 C—C Cross Coupling via Double C—H Activation
Authors: Yeung C. S. , Borduas N. , Dong V. M.
Published: May 2016

Palladium catalysts promote oxidative C—C bond formation between two arene coupling partners by twofold C—H activation. The observed regioselectivity for the biaryl products is predictable based on proximity to Lewis base functionality and inherent electronic bias.
2.2 Enzymatic C-Alkylation of Aromatic Compounds
Authors: Wessjohann L. A. , Schreckenbach H. F. , Kaluđerović G. N.
Published: May 2016

C-Alkylation of aromatic groups, as in Friedel—Crafts chemistry, is an energetically difficult process with significant chemo- and regioselectivity problems, especially if other nucleophiles, such as hydroxy groups or nitrogen atoms, are present in the substrate. Nature provides alkylating enzymes that selectively transfer a methyl, prenyl, or glycosyl group to carbon atoms of aromatic moieties under mild conditions, at room temperature, and mostly with excellent chemo- and regioselectivity. In this review, current enzymatic processes are highlighted and the increasing availability of cosubstrates, cofactors, and suitable enzymes is discussed as a prerequisite for scaling up such processes.
2.4.3 ω-Transaminases
Authors: Simon R. C. , Busto E. , Fischereder E.-M. , Fuchs C. S. , Pressnitz D. , Richter N.
Published: May 2016

Optically pure amines are prepared from the corresponding prochiral ketones via asymmetric amination employing ω-transaminases and selected amine donors.
2.6.1 Asymmetric Synthesis of Enantiopure Epoxides Using Monooxygenases
Authors: Li A. T. , Li Z.
Published: May 2016

Monooxygenases catalyze the asymmetric epoxidation of different types of alkenes, providing a green and useful method to synthesize the corresponding epoxides in high enantiomeric excess and good yield. The epoxidations catalyzed by styrene monooxygenase, xylene monooxygenase, alkane monooxygenase, alkene monooxygenase, and cytochrome P450 monooxygenase are reviewed in this chapter.
2.6.2 Reactions Catalyzed by Halohydrin Dehalogenases
Authors: Majerić Elenkov M. , Szymański W. , Janssen D. B.
Published: May 2016

In some bacteria, halohydrin dehalogenases catalyze the conversion of vicinal halo alcohols, such as 1,3-dichloropropane or 3-chloropropane-1,2-diol, into epoxides, and thereby play a role in the biodegradation of halogenated organic compounds. In the reverse reaction, i.e. epoxide ring opening, various small anions can replace the halide, allowing the synthesis of β-substituted alcohols, including β-hydroxynitriles and β-azido alcohols. These remarkable catalytic properties have been modified by structure-based protein engineering, making the enzymes suitable for diverse applications.
Twenty years of Pacific Conservation Biology.
Authors: Calver Mike
Published: May 2016

THIS issue marks the completion of 20 years
of publication of Pacific Conservation Biology.
Writing in the first issue, Foundation Editor
Craig Moritz highlighted the ‘profound and
urgent problems in conservation and land
management’ in the Pacific region, as well as
‘the inadequate communication among research
biologists, conservation managers and administrators.’
He saw PCB as promoting this badly
needed communication regarding conservation
issues in the region, as well as highlighting the
‘relevance and management implications of the
research.’ He invited researchers and managers
to ‘enjoy it, use it and be part of it!’
The Woodhen: A Flightless Island Bird Defying Extinction.
Authors: Recher Harry F.
Published: May 2016

I BEGIN this review of Clifford Frith’s book on the
Lord Howe Island Woodhen Gallirallus sylvestris with
a ‘conflict of interest’ admission. Long ago, 1970–72
to be precise, while at the Australian Museum, I coordinated
an environmental survey of Lord Howe
Island. The survey was undertaken at the request of
the Lord Howe Island Board for the museum to
determine the status of the island’s flora and fauna.
As the museum had a long association with Lord
Howe Island commencing in 1869 when a team of
scientists from the museum undertook a zoological
survey of the island, the approach from the Board
was well-received by museum staff many of whom
participated in the survey. The survey was also joined
by botanists from the Royal Botanic Gardens and
zoologists from CSIRO.
Australian pharmacists’ willingness to conduct rapid HIV testing in community pharmacies
Authors: Santella Anthony J. , Schlub Timothy E. , Fagan Damien , Hillman Richard J. , Krass Ines
Published: May 2016

Community pharmacists are expanding their roles in health care, especially as they are distributed over wide geographical areas and are often open long hours. New rapid HIV testing technologies may offer further opportunities to expand their roles. A cross-sectional, online survey of Australian community pharmacists found most prepared to provide treatment to HIV patients, with the majority willing to become involved in rapid HIV testing.
Temperature distribution effect on relation between welding heat input and angular distortion
Authors: Okano S. , Tsuji H. , Mochizuki M.
Published: May 2016

Conventional and activated tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding were conducted under the same welding conditions in an experiment to compare the weld penetration, temperature distribution and angular distortion. The results showed that the quantities of heat input per unit welding length were almost the same, but the shapes of the weld penetration and heat-affected zones changed drastically. The difference in angular distortion between conventional and activated TIG welding was strongly dependent on the thickness of the welded plate. A distortion analysis was developed by considering convective heat transfer in the weld pool to obtain a more detailed understanding of the temperature distribution effect on the relation between welding heat input and angular distortion. The resulting distinguishable curves for conventional and activated TIG welding, which can lead to the thickness dependence of differences in angular distortion, showed the traditional relation between the heat input parameter and the angular distortion.
Chemotherapy-sparing treatment strategies for follicular lymphoma: current options and future directions
Authors: Ng Samuel Y. , Abramson Jeremy S.
Published: May 2016

Purpose of review

The accelerating development of targeted therapy offers the possibility of avoiding the many toxic side-effects of cytotoxic chemotherapy often experienced during treatment of patients with malignancies. As a currently incurable disease that typically follows an indolent course, follicular lymphoma is a disease for which chemotherapy-free treatment may offer substantial benefit.

Recent findings

We review chemotherapy-free treatment regimens, including those targeting cell-surface proteins and intracellular signaling pathways currently in use for the treatment of follicular lymphoma, paying particular attention to the unique toxicity profiles of these agents. Additionally, the safety profiles and efficacy of selected novel-targeted therapies in earlier phase studies, including immunotherapeutics, will be explored.

Novel-targeted therapies are rapidly changing the landscape of follicular lymphoma and decreasing reliance upon traditional chemotherapeutics. Although the toxicities of chemotherapy are well known to clinicians, the unique adverse events associated with novel agents may be less familiar, and requires attention to identification, management, and prophylaxis of toxicity associated with emerging chemotherapy-sparing treatments.
Robust Gap Repair in the Contractile Ring Ensures Timely Completion of Cytokinesis
Authors: Silva AM , Osório D , Pereira AJ , Maiato H , Pinto IM , Rubinstein B , Gassmann R , Telley IA , Carvalho AX
Published: May 2016

Cytokinesis in animal cells requires the constriction of an actomyosin contractile ring, whose architecture and mechanism remain poorly understood. We use laser microsurgery to explore the biophysical properties of constricting contractile rings inC. elegansembryos. Laser cutting causes rings to snap open, which is a sign of tension release. However, instead of disintegrating, ring topology recovers and constriction proceeds. In response to severing, a finite gap forms that is proportional to ring perimeters before cutting, demonstrating that tension along the ring decreases throughout constriction. Severed rings repair their gaps by recruiting new material and subsequently increase constriction rate and complete cytokinesis with the same timing as uncut rings. Rings repair successive cuts and exhibit substantial constriction when gap repair is prevented. Our analysis suggests that cytokinesis is accomplished by contractile modules that assemble and contract autonomously, enabling local repair of the actomyosin network throughout constriction. Consequently, cytokinesis is a highly robust process impervious to discontinuities in contractile ring structure.
Continuous Genetic Recording with Self-Targeting CRISPR-Cas in Human Cells
Authors: Perli Samuel D. , Cui Cheryl H. , Lu Timothy K.
Published: May 2016

The ability to longitudinally track and record molecular eventsin vivowould provide a unique opportunity to monitor signaling dynamics within cellular niches and to identify critical factors in orchestrating cellular behavior. We present a self-contained analog memory device that enables the recording of molecular stimuli in the form of DNA mutations in human cells. The memory unit consists of a self-targeting guide RNA (stgRNA) cassette that repeatedly directsStreptococcus pyogenesCas9 nuclease activity towards the DNA that encodes the stgRNA, thereby enabling localized, continuous DNA mutagenesis as a function of stgRNA expression. We analyze the temporal sequence evolution dynamics of stgRNAs containing 20, 30 and 40 nucleotide SDSes (Specificity Determining Sequences) and create a population-based recording metric that conveys information about the duration and/or intensity of stgRNA activity. By expressing stgRNAs from engineered, inducible RNA polymerase (RNAP) III promoters, we demonstrate programmable and multiplexed memory storage in human cells triggered by doxycycline and isopropyl β-D-1-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG). Finally, we show that memory units encoded in human cells implanted in mice are able to record lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute inflammation over time. This tool, which we call Mammalian Synthetic Cellular Recorder Integrating Biological Events (mSCRIBE), provides a unique strategy for investigating cell biologyin vivoandin situand may drive further applications that leverage continuous evolution of targeted DNA sequences in mammalian cells.

One Sentence Summary

By designing self-targeting guide RNAs that repeatedly direct Cas9 nuclease activity towards their own DNA, we created multiplexed analog memory operators that can record biologically relevant informationin vitroandin vivo, such as the magnitude and duration of exposure to TNAα.
Best Practices in Data Analysis and Sharing in Neuroimaging using MRI
Authors: Nichols Thomas E. , Das Samir , Eickhoff Simon B. , Evans Alan C. , Glatard Tristan , Hanke Michael , Kriegeskorte Nikolaus , Milham Michael P. , Poldrack Russell A. , Poline Jean-Baptiste , Proal Erika , Thirion Bertrand , Van Essen David C. , White Tonya , Yeo B. T. Thomas
Published: May 2016

Neuroimaging enables rich noninvasive measurements of human brain activity, but translating such data into neuroscientific insights and clinical applications requires complex analyses and collaboration among a diverse array of researchers. The open science movement is reshaping scientific culture and addressing the challenges of transparency and reproducibility of research. To advance open science in neuroimaging the Organization for Human Brain Mapping created the Committee on Best Practice in Data Analysis and Sharing (COBIDAS), charged with creating a report that collects best practice recommendations from experts and the entire brain imaging community. The purpose of this work is to elaborate the principles of open and reproducible research for neuroimaging using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and then distill these principles to specific research practices. Many elements of a study are so varied that practice cannot be prescribed, but for these areas we detail the information that must be reported to fully understand and potentially replicate a study. For other elements of a study, like statistical modelling where specific poor practices can be identified, and the emerging areas of data sharing and reproducibility, we detail both good practice and reporting standards. For each of seven areas of a study we provide tabular listing of over 100 items to help plan, execute, report and share research in the most transparent fashion. Whether for individual scientists, or for editors and reviewers, we hope these guidelines serve as a benchmark, to raise the standards of practice and reporting in neuroimaging using MRI.
Brain structure in pediatric Tourette syndrome
Authors: Williams Alton C. , Greene Deanna J. , Koller Jonathan M. , Schlaggar Bradley L. , Black Kevin J. ,   The Tourette Association of America Neuroimaging Consortium
Published: May 2016

Previous studies of brain structure in Tourette syndrome (TS) have produced mixed results, and most had modest sample sizes. In the present multi-center study, we used structural MRI to compare 103 children and adolescents with TS to a well-matched group of 103 children without tics. We applied voxel-based morphometry methods to test gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM) volume differences between diagnostic groups, accounting for MRI scanner and sequence, age, sex and total GM + WM volume. The TS group demonstrated greater GM volume in posterior thalamus, hypothalamus and midbrain, and lower WM volume bilaterally in orbital and medial prefrontal cortex. These results demonstrate evidence for abnormal brain structure in children and youth with TS, consistent with and extending previous findings. As orbital cortex is reciprocally connected with hypothalamus, our results suggest that structural abnormalities in these regions may relate to abnormal behavioral inhibition and somatic monitoring in TS.
Steep difference between ecotypes and intermediate phenotype depression for shell trait integration in a marine snail hybrid zone
Authors: Garcia Carlos
Published: May 2016

Multivariate analyses of phenotypic integration for a set of characters provide information about biological systems that cannot be obtained in univariate studies of these characters. We studied phenotypic integration for seven shell measures across the phenotypic gradient in a hybrid zone of the marine snailLittorina saxatilisin Galicia, NW Iberia. We found clear differences in the degree of integration between the two ecotypes involved in the hybrid zone, likely related to differences in the strength of natural selection acting on the snails' shells in each ecotype's habitat. We found also evidence of a decrease in integration in the phenotypically intermediate, hybrid snails, consistent with hybridization resulting in a release of multivariate variation and increased evolvability. Across the phenotypic gradient, decreases in overall integration tended to be accompanied by increases in some measures of modularity, but the latter did nor reflect high correlation structure. The increases occurred only in a proportional sense, correlations among modules tending to decrease faster than within modules for low overall integration tiers. Integration analyses based on non partial and partial correlations tended to produce contrasting results, which suggested hierarchical sources of shell integration. Given that the two ecotypes could have differentiated in situ according to a parapatric model, our results would show that changes in integration can occur in a short evolutionary time and be maintained in the presence of gene flow, and also that this gene flow could result in the hybrid release of multi character variation.
Identifying outlier loci in admixed and in continuous populations using ancestral population differentiation statistics
Authors: Martins Helena , Caye Kevin , Luu Keurcien , Blum Michael G.B. , François Olivier
Published: May 2016

Finding genetic signatures of local adaptation is of great interest for many population genetic studies. Common approaches to sorting selective loci from their genomic background focus on the extreme values of the fixation index,FST, across loci. However, the computation of the fixation index becomes challenging when the population is genetically continuous, when predefining subpopulations is a difficult task, and in the presence of admixed individuals in the sample. In this study, we present a new method to identify loci under selection based on an extension of theFSTstatistic to samples with admixed individuals. In our approach,FSTvalues are computed from the ancestry coefficients obtained with ancestry estimation programs. More specifically, we used factor models to estimateFST, and we compared our neutrality tests with those derived from a principal component analysis approach. The performances of the tests were illustrated using simulated data, and by re-analyzing genomic data from European lines of the plant speciesArabidopsis thalianaand human genomic data from the population reference sample, POPRES.
The Use of Informativity in the Development of Robust Metaviromics-based Examinations
Authors: Watkins Siobhan C. , Hatzopoulos Thomas , Putonti Catherine
Published: May 2016

The field of metagenomics has developed insight into many of the complex microbial communities responsible for maintaining life on this planet. Sequencing efforts often uncover novel genetic content; this is most evident for viral metagenomics, in which upwards of 90% of all sequences demonstrate no sequence similarity with present databases. For the small fraction which can be identified, the top BLAST hit is often posited as being representative of the phage taxon. However, as previous research has shown, the top BLAST hit is sometimes misinterpreted. Furthermore, the appearance of a particular gene homolog is frequently not representative of the presence of the particular taxon in question. To circumvent these limitations, we have developed a new method for the analysis of metaviromic datasets. BLAST hits are weighted, integrating the sequence identity and length of alignments as well as a phylogenetic signal. A genic rather than genomic approach is presented in which each gene is evaluated with respect to its information content. Through this quantifiable metric, predictions of viral community structure can be made with greater confidence. As a proof-of-concept, the approach presented here was implemented and applied to seven metaviromes. While providing a more robust means of evaluating metaviromic data, the tool is versatile and can easily be customized to investigations of any environment or biome.
Metronidazole containing pyrazole derivatives potently inhibit tyrosyl‐tRNA synthetase: design, synthesis, and biological evaluation
Authors: Chen Long‐Wang , Wang Peng‐Fei , Tang Dan‐Jie , Tao Xiang‐Xiang , Man Ruo‐Jun , Qiu Han‐Yue , Wang Zhong‐Chang , Xu Chen , Zhu Hai‐Liang
Published: May 2016

As an important enzyme in bacterial protein biosynthesis, tyrosyl‐tRNA synthetase (TyrRS) has been an absorbing therapeutic target for exploring novel antibacterial agents. A series of metronidazole‐based antibacterial agents has been synthesized and identified as TyrRS inhibitors with low cytotoxicity and significant antibacterial activity, especially against Gram‐negative organisms. Of the compounds obtained, 4f is the most potent agent which inhibited the growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 13525 (MIC = 0.98 μg/mL) and exhibited TryRS inhibitory activity (IC50 = 0.92 μm). Docking simulation was performed to further understand its potency. Membrane‐mediated apoptosis in P. aeruginosa was verified by flow cytometry.
Fitness‐to‐drive agreements after stroke: medical versus practical recommendations
Authors: Ranchet M. , Akinwuntan A. E. , Tant M. , Salch A. , Neal E. , Devos H.
Published: May 2016

Background and purpose

Physicians often struggle to screen out patients who are no longer fit to drive after stroke. The agreement between the recommendations of physicians and on‐road assessors with regard to fitness to drive after stroke was investigated.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 735 patients with stroke underwent medical, visual and road tests at an official fitness‐to‐drive center of the Belgian Road Safety Institute. Physicians provided medical fitness‐to‐drive recommendations using one of three categories (favorable, reserved or unfavorable). On‐road assessors used the same three categories to make practical fitness‐to‐drive recommendations. Agreement between the medical and practical fitness‐to‐drive recommendations was calculated using the percentage of agreement and prevalence and bias adjusted kappa (PABAK). Area under the curve (AUC) was used to predict the medical and practical recommendations after stepwise logistic regression analyses.

Results

The percentage of agreement was 73% and the PABAK was 0.60 (P < 0.0001). Physicians disagreed on 92% of patients classified as unfavorable and 80% of those classified as reserved by the on‐road assessor. Previous visits to the driving center and number of comorbidities predicted medical fitness‐to‐drive recommendations (AUC = 0.68). Age, previous visits to the center, binocular acuity and driving experience constituted the best model to predict practical fitness‐to‐drive recommendations (AUC = 0.70).

Conclusions

Although there was a moderate agreement between the medical and practical fitness‐to‐drive recommendations, physicians were less likely to screen out those patients who may pose an actual risk on the road. Demographic, clinical and driving factors differently affected the medical and practical fitness‐to‐drive recommendations.
Where people look for online health information
Authors: LaValley Susan A. , Kiviniemi Marc T. , Gage‐Bouchard Elizabeth A.
Published: May 2016

Objectives

To identify health‐related websites Americans are using, demographic characteristics associated with certain website type and how website type shapes users’ online information seeking experiences.

Methods

Data from the Health Information National Trends Survey 4 Cycle 1 were used. User‐identified websites were categorised into four types: government sponsored, commercially based, academically affiliated and search engines. Logistic regression analyses examined associations between users’ sociodemographic characteristics and website type, and associations between website type and information search experience.

Results

Respondents reported using: commercial websites (71.8%), followed by a search engines (11.6%), academically affiliated sites (11.1%) and government‐sponsored websites (5.5%). Older age was associated with the use of academic websites (OR 1.03, 95% CI 1.02, 1.04); younger age with commercial website use (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.95, 0.98). Search engine use predicted increased levels of frustration, effort and concern over website information quality, while commercial website use predicted decreased levels of these same measures.

Discussion

Health information seekers experience varying levels of frustration, effort and concern related to their online searching.

Conclusion

There is a need for continued efforts by librarians and health care professionals to train seekers of online health information to select websites using established guidelines and quality criteria.
A noninvasive model to predict liver histology in HBeAg‐positive chronic hepatitis B with alanine aminotransferase ≤ 2upper limit of normal
Authors: Gao Shuai , Li Xin‐You , Fan Yu‐Chen , Sun Feng‐Kai , Han Li‐Yan , Li Feng , Ji Xiang‐Fen , Wang Kai
Published: May 2016

Background and Aim

Liver biopsy remains the gold standard to evaluate liver histology. However, it has several limitations. This study aims to construct a noninvasive model to predict liver histology for commencing antiviral therapy in HBeAg‐positive chronic hepatitis B (CHB) with aminotransferase (ALT) ≤ 2 upper limit of normal (ULN).

Methods

Two hundred and ninety‐eight patients with HBeAg‐positive CHB, ALT ≤ 2ULN and HBV‐DNA ≥20 000 IU/ml were enrolled and randomly divided into a training group and a validation group. A noninvasive model was constructed in the training group to predict significant liver histological change [necroinflammatory activity grade (G) ≥ 2 or fibrosis stage (S) ≥ 2] and then validated in the validation group.

Results

Aspartate aminotransferase, HBsAg, platelet, and albumin were identified as independent predictors. A model was constructed by them. It had an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.875 in the training group, 0.858 in the validation group and 0.868 in the entire cohort. Using a cut‐off point of −0.96, it showed 93% sensitivity, 90% negative predictive value (NPV) in the training group and 95% sensitivity, 94% NPV in the validation group. Using a cut‐off point of 0.96, it showed 95% specificity, 91% positive predictive value (PPV) in the training group and 89% specificity, 80% PPV in the validation group.

Conclusions

This study constructed a noninvasive model to predict liver histology in HBeAg‐positive CHB with ALT ≤ 2ULN, which might reduce the clinical need for liver biopsy.
Hanging Out With the Right Crowd: Peer Influence on Risk‐Taking Behavior in Adolescence
Authors: Van Hoorn Jorien , Crone Eveline A. , Van Leijenhorst Linda
Published: May 2016

Peer influence plays a key role in the increase of risk‐taking behavior during adolescence. However, its underlying processes are not fully understood. This study examined the effects of social norms, conveyed through peer advice, on risk‐taking behavior in 15‐ to 17‐year‐old adolescents (N = 76). Participants played a card‐guessing task alone and with online peer advice. Results showed that risk‐taking increased in the presence of peers. The results further showed that adolescents took into account the uncertainty associated with gambles, as well as the social norms conveyed by peers. Our findings suggest that peers are most influential in uncertain situations and demonstrate the value of a social norms approach in examining the processes underlying peer effects.
Breaking the Cycle of Xanthomonas campestris pv. musacearum in Infected Fields through the Cultivation of Annual Crops and Disease Control in Adjacent Fields
Authors: Rutikanga Alexandre , Sivirihauma Charles , Ocimati Walter , Night Gertrude , Murekezi Charles , Ndungo Vigheri , Mugiraneza Thierry , Rurangwa Eduard , Blomme Guy
Published: May 2016

Cultivation of non‐host crops after uprooting Xanthomonas campestris pv. musacearum (Xcm)‐infected banana plants has been advocated for breaking Xanthomonas wilt disease (XW) cycle in fields. Knowledge on the interaction of these crops with Xcm is limited. Maize, beans and sweet potato were planted after uprooting Xcm‐infected banana plants in Rwanda and eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). A weed fallow (mixed species) served as the control. After one, two and/or four break‐crop or fallow seasons, healthy plantlets were replanted and monitored for XW for 12–24 months. XW status in adjacent fields was monitored, and diseased stems within 100–300 m radius of the two‐ and four‐season experiments were uprooted. In Rwanda, soil and plant parts from the one‐season experiments were sampled for Xcm isolation and Xcm‐like colonies confirmed with Xcm‐specific primers using PCR. Pathogenicity tests were performed to confirm the ability of the PCR‐positive isolates to infect healthy banana plantlets. XW was observed in all the one‐season experiments, with higher cumulative incidences in maize and bean plots. However, no similar trends were observed in the two‐season experiments, with a 6–8% incidence observed only in bean and potato plots in DR Congo. Lengthening time under break crops to two and four seasons, respectively, reduced the incidence to 3% and zero in Rwanda and 0–8% in the two‐season experiments in DR Congo. Incidence in the first‐season experiments highly correlated (R = 88) to that in the adjacent fields, suggesting possible re‐infections from these fields. Two season with break crop plus collective XW control are recommended in these agro‐ecosystems. PCR‐positive Xcm‐like colonies from break crops only induced localized cell death on banana, while PCR‐positive isolates from symptomatic banana plants caused full XW symptoms. Cross‐infection/inoculation studies under controlled conditions are still needed to conclusively elucidate Xcm interaction with these crops.
Survey of hepatitis B knowledge and stigma among chronically infected patients and uninfected persons in Beijing, China
Authors: Huang Jiaxin , Guan Mary L. , Balch Jeremy , Wu Elizabeth , Rao Huiying , Lin Andy , Wei Lai , Lok Anna S.
Published: May 2016

Background & Aims

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection carries substantial stigma in China. We surveyed HBV knowledge and stigma among chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients and persons without HBV infection in Beijing, China.

Methods

Four hundred and thirty five CHB patients and 801 controls at Peking University People's Hospital were surveyed.

Results

Chronic hepatitis B patients were older (mean 46 vs. 39 years) and more often men (71 vs. 48%) than controls. Mean knowledge score was 11.9/15 for CHB and 9.3/15 for control patients (P < 0.001). Average stigma score was 22.1/39 for CHB and 19.2/30 for control patients. Controls expressed discomfort with close contact (45%) or sharing meals with CHB patients (39%) and believed CHB patients should not be allowed to work in restaurants (58%) or childcare (44%). Chronic hepatitis B patients felt that they were undesirable as spouses (33 vs. 17%) and brought trouble to their families (58 vs. 34%) more often than controls. Despite legal prohibitions, 40% of CHB patients were required to undergo pre‐employment HBV testing, and 29% of these individuals thought that they lost job opportunities because of their disease status. 16% of CHB patients regretted disclosing their HBV status and disclosure was inversely associated with stigma. Higher stigma was associated with older age, lower education and lower knowledge score among controls; and with lower education, younger age, having undergone pre‐employment HBV testing and regret disclosing their HBV status among CHB patients.

Conclusion

Despite high prevalence of CHB in China, our study shows knowledge is limited and there is significant societal and internalized stigma associated with HBV infection.
Regions of attraction between like-charged conducting spheres
Authors: Lekner John
Published: May 2016

Two positively charged conducting spheres have been shown to attract at close enough range, unless they have a charge ratio that would result from contact. We give analytical results for the charge ratio at which the cross-over between electrostatic attraction and repulsion occurs, as a function of the sphere separation.
Exopolysaccharide biosynthetic glycoside hydrolases can be utilized to disrupt and prevent
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
biofilms
Authors: Baker Perrin , Hill Preston J. , Snarr Brendan D. , Alnabelseya Noor , Pestrak Matthew J. , Lee Mark J. , Jennings Laura K. , Tam John , Melnyk Roman A. , Parsek Matthew R. , Sheppard Donald C. , Wozniak Daniel J. , Howell P. Lynne
Published: May 2016

Therapeutic enzyme treatment disrupts
Pseudomonas
biofilms, potentiating antibiotics and ameliorating the innate immune system.
On-demand transfer of trapped photons on a chip
Authors: Konoike Ryotaro , Nakagawa Haruyuki , Nakadai Masahiro , Asano Takashi , Tanaka Yoshinori , Noda Susumu
Published: May 2016

Researchers experimentally demonstrate on-demand transfer of trapped photons on a photonic crystal chip for the first time.
U-series and 40Ar/39Ar ages of Holocene volcanic rocks at Changbaishan volcano, China
Authors: Ramos Frank C. , Heizler M.T. , Buettner J.E. , Gill J.B. , Wei H.Q. , Dimond C.A. , Scott S.R.
Published: May 2016

Accurately dating Holocene volcanic rocks poses many challenges but is critical to assessing magmatic evolution and hazard risks at highly active volcanoes. Here we use Ra/Th and 40Ar/39Ar geochronology to date very young eruptions at Changbaishan volcano, northeastern China, a recently active stratovolcano responsible for one of the most voluminous eruptions in the past ∼2000 yr. For Holocene eruptions, 40Ar/39Ar ages are consistently older than those of both independently determined ages and maximum Ra/Th ages. Overall, Ra/Th ages are most consistent with historical accounts and indicate inaccurate 40Ar/39Ar ages that are due to extraneous argon in various forms. Ra/Th geochronology also confirms the highly active nature of Changbaishan and supports the continued presence of trachytic magma residing under the volcano that appeared more than ∼1100 yr ago.
Case of unrecognised food bone ingestion with dual site intestinal perforations
Authors: Coyte Aishah , Tahar Aïssa Jamel , Koh Hoey C , Mackay Graham
Published: May 2016

Food bone perforation of the bowel is a relatively rare diagnosis. Its presentation is non-specific and often misdiagnosed. We present a case where a food bone perforation in both the large and small bowel was diagnosed on CT scan. A successful outcome was achieved with surgical treatment.
Developing a psychiatrist–patient relationship when both people are doctors: a qualitative study
Authors: Stanton Josephine , Randal Patte
Published: May 2016

Objective

To better understand the complexities of developing an effective psychiatrist–patient relationship when both people involved are doctors.

Method

In-depth, semistructured interviews were conducted with 11 doctors with experiences as patients of psychiatrists (DPs) and eight psychiatrists with experience of treating doctors (TPs). A thematic analysis was undertaken.

Results

The medical culture of unrealistically high standards with limited room for vulnerability and fallibility, vigilance for judgment and valuing clinical over personal knowledge affected both people in the relationship. DPs struggled with the contradictions involved in entering the patient role but tried hard to be good patients. They wanted guidance but found it hard to accept and seldom communicated dissatisfaction or disagreement to their TPs. They described widely varying responses to diagnosis and treatment within the biomedical model. TPs described enjoyment and satisfaction and extreme challenge in engaging with TPs. Despite focusing on providing ordinary care they described providing extra care in many ways.

Conclusions

This study brings forward important issues when a psychiatrist is building a therapeutic relationship with another doctor. These are also likely to arise with other people and contribute to making truly patient-centred ‘ordinary care’ a hard ideal to fulfil. They include: (1) doctors' sense of ourselves as invincible, (2) TPs' sense of personal connection to, and identity with, DPs, (3) having extensive medical knowledge and (4) striving to be good patients. We need to make these issues explicit and enable the DP (or other patients) to tell their story and speak about their experience of the consultation so that any potential rupture in the therapeutic relationship can be addressed early.
First evidence of detection of Asia/South America II (A/SAII) infectious bronchitis virus in a commercial broiler flock in Peru
Authors: Tataje‐Lavanda Luis , Falconi‐Agapito Francesca , Montalván Ángela , Bueno Carlos , Requena David , Fernández‐Díaz Manolo
Published: May 2016

The infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) causes great economic losses to the global poultry industry. This report describes an IBV sample isolated from a broiler farm in the north of Peru and its genetic relationship with other strains of IBV. The authors sequenced part of the S1 coding region including the sequence of the hypervariable regions HVR1 and HVR2. By RT‐PCR and phylogenetic analysis, this isolate was classified into the Asia/South America II (Q1‐type strain), which has not been previously reported in Peru. This enriches the molecular epidemiology information about IBV and is useful for the control of this disease in Peru and Latin America.
Diarrhoea Caused by Diffuse Metastatic Lobular Breast Cancer
Authors: Bakker Sjoerd F. , Moolenaar Willem , van Santen Marije M. , Hendriks Mathijs P.
Published: May 2016

A 70-year-old woman with a history of lobular breast cancer presented to our Outpatient Clinic with diarrhoea for the past 3 years. Clinical examination and laboratory research were normal. Colonoscopy showed diffuse mild erythema and a decreased vascular pattern. Biopsies from the ascending colon, transverse colon, and descending colon showed metastases of lobular breast carcinoma. Although gastrointestinal metastases are rare in breast cancer, our case emphasizes the need for further diagnostic efforts in patients with gastrointestinal symptoms and a history of breast carcinoma.
Angular Dependence of Spin Transfer Switching in Spin Valve Nanopillar Based Heusler Alloy
Authors: Khunkitti Pirat , Kruesubthaworn Anan , Kaewrawang Arkom , Mewes Tim , Mewes Claudia K. A. , Siritaratiwat Apirat
Published: May 2016

The spin transfer induced magnetization switching in current perpendicular-to-the-plane spin valve nanopillar based Co2FeAl0.5Si0.5Heusler alloy with varying the initial angles of the magnetization of sensing layer,θ0, was investigated via macrospin simulations. The effects of an in-plane magnetic field,Hi, on the switching behavior were also evaluated. The magnetization switching was excited by spin polarized switching current,Is. The time varying magnetization was computed by the Landau-Lifshitz-Gilbert-Slonczewski equation, while the spin transfer induced noise was examined by using the power spectral density analysis. It was found thatθ0should be narrowly initialized since this configuration produces the small noise during the switching. Also, the negativeIsproduced more uniform switching than the positiveIsdue to existence of ferromagnetic exchange coupling. WhenHiwas presented, the noise generated at low frequencies could be suppressed, and then the switching behavior became more uniform. In addition, the results indicated that the noise configuration could be explained by the physical dynamic of magnetization behavior. Hence, the spin transfer induced noise needs to be minimized in order to improve the performance of spin transfer torque random access memory for high density recording.