bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oscillations emerging from noise-driven steady state in networks with electrical synapses and subthreshold resonance
Authors: Tchumatchenko Tatjana , Clopath Claudia
Published: November 2014

Oscillations play a critical role in cognitive phenomena and have been observed in many brain regions. Experimental evidence indicates that classes of neurons exhibit properties that could promote oscillations, such as subthreshold resonance and electrical gap junctions. Typically, these two properties are studied separately but it is not clear which is the dominant determinant of global network rhythms. Our aim is to provide an analytical understanding of how these two effects destabilize the fluctuation-driven state, in which neurons fire irregularly, and lead to an emergence of global synchronous oscillations. Here we show how the oscillation frequency is shaped by single neuron resonance, electrical and chemical synapses.The presence of both gap junctions and subthreshold resonance are necessary for the emergence of oscillations. Our results are in agreement with several experimental observations such as network responses to oscillatory inputs and offer a much-needed conceptual link connecting a collection of disparate effects observed in networks.
Combination of mild hypothermia with neuroprotectants has greater neuroprotective effects during oxygen-glucose deprivation and reoxygenation-mediated neuronal injury
Authors: Gao Xiao-Ya , Huang Jian-Ou , Hu Ya-Fang , Gu Yong , Zhu Shu-Zhen , Huang Kai-Bin , Chen Jin-Yu , Pan Su-Yue
Published: November 2014

Co-treatment of neuroprotective reagents may improve the therapeutic efficacy of hypothermia in protecting neurons during ischemic stroke. This study aimed to find promising drugs that enhance the neuroprotective effect of mild hypothermia (MH). 26 candidate drugs were selected based on different targets. Primary cultured cortical neurons were exposed to oxygen-glucose deprivation and reoxygenation (OGD/R) to induce neuronal damage, followed by either single treatment (a drug or MH) or a combination of a drug and MH. Results showed that, compared with single treatment, combination of MH with brain derived neurotrophic factor, glibenclamide, dizocilpine, human urinary kallidinogenase or neuroglobin displayed higher proportion of neuronal cell viability. The latter three drugs also caused less apoptosis rate in combined treatment. Furthermore, co-treatment of those three drugs and MH decreased the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and intracellular calcium accumulation, as well as stabilized mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), indicating the combined neuroprotective effects are probably via inhibiting mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. Taken together, the study suggests that combined treatment with hypothermia and certain neuroprotective reagents provide a better protection against OGD/R-induced neuronal injury.
Design of a superluminal ring laser gyroscope using multilayer optical coatings with huge group delay
Authors: Qu Tianliang , Yang Kaiyong , Han Xiang , Wu Suyong , Huang Yun , Luo Hui
Published: November 2014

We propose and analyze a superluminal ring laser gyroscope (RLG) using multilayer optical coatings with huge group delay (GD). This GD assisted superluminal RLG can measure the absolute rotation with a giant sensitivity-enhancement factor of ~103; while, the broadband FWHM of the enhancement factor can reach 20 MHz. This superluminal RLG is based on a traditional RLG with minimal re-engineering and beneficial for miniaturization according to theoretical calculation. The idea of using GD coatings as a fast-light medium will shed lights on the design and application of fast-light sensors.
Fe3O4 nanoparticles as robust photothermal agents for driving high barrier reactions under ambient conditions
Authors: Johnson Robert J. G. , Haas Kaitlin M. , Lear Benjamin J.
Published: November 2014

Magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) show remarkable stability during extreme photothermal heating to temperatures above 770 K, displaying no change in size, crystallinity, or surfactants.
The planar electric double layer capacitance for the solvent primitive model electrolyte
Authors: Lamperski Stanisław , Płuciennik Monika , Outhwaite Christopher W.
Published: November 2014

The transition of the solvent primitive model electrolyte differential capacitance from a minimum to a maximum, at fixed total packing fraction, occurs at a higher electrolyte concentration than that of the restricted primitive model electrolyte.
Spectroscopic and crystallographic anomalies of (Co1−xZnx)Al2O4 spinel oxide
Authors: Nakane Takayuki , Naka Takashi , Sato Koichi , Taguchi Minori , Nakayama Minako , Mitsui Tadashi , Matsushita Akiyuki , Chikyow Toyohiro
Published: November 2014

This work investigate the spectroscopic and crystallographic properties of (Co1−xZnx)Al2O4 with a range of x of 0 ≤ x ≤ 1. The spectroscopic evaluation carried out in this study found some interesting characteristics of this material.
1,1-Carboboration to tellurium–boron intramolecular frustrated Lewis pairs
Authors: Tsao Fu An , Stephan Douglas W.
Published: November 2014

The tellurium acetylide Ph(CH2)2TeCCPh reacts with boranesvia1,1-carboboration to give a series of borylated vinyl telluroethers.
Manipulating shear-induced non-equilibrium transitions in colloidal films by feedback control
Authors: Vezirov Tarlan A. , Gerloff Sascha , Klapp Sabine H. L.
Published: November 2014

Using Brownian Dynamics (BD) simulations we investigate non-equilibrium transitions of sheared colloidal films under controlled shear stress σxz.
Impact of pulse poling on static and dynamic ferroelastic-domain contributions in tetragonal Pb(Ti, Zr)O3 films determined by in-situ x–ray diffraction analysis
Authors: Nakajima Mitsumasa , Wada Ayumi , Yamada Tomoaki , Ehara Yoshitaka , Kobayashi Takeshi , Funakubo Hiroshi
Published: November 2014

The effects of bipolar pulse poling on the ferroelastic domain structure and their contribution to the electrical and piezoelectric properties of Pb(Ti0.7Zr0.3)O3 films are investigated. Micro x-ray diffraction measurements clearly show that the volume fraction of the c-domain increases irreversibly as the poling field is increased, leading to changes in the remanent polarization, dielectric constant, and piezoelectric coefficient. Theoretical estimations well explain the changes of remanent polarization and dielectric constant, but the increase in piezoelectric coefficient is much larger than the theoretical estimation. In-situ x-ray diffraction analysis under an electric field reveals that this disagreement is due to the unexpected activation of the ferroelastic domain wall motion. Our results provide new insight into the poling effect on the electric and piezoelectric properties of ferroelectric films.
Modular cryogenic interconnects for multi-qubit devices
Authors: Colless J. I. , Reilly D. J.
Published: November 2014

We have developed a modular interconnect platform for the control and readout of multiple solid-state qubits at cryogenic temperatures. The setup provides 74 filtered dc-bias connections, 32 control and readout connections with −3 dB frequency above 5 GHz, and 4 microwave feed lines that allow low loss (less than 3 dB) transmission 10 GHz. The incorporation of a radio-frequency interposer enables the platform to be separated into two printed circuit boards, decoupling the simple board that is bonded to the qubit chip from the multilayer board that incorporates expensive connectors and components. This modular approach lifts the burden of duplicating complex interconnect circuits for every prototype device. We report the performance of this platform at milli-Kelvin temperatures, including signal transmission and crosstalk measurements.
New divergent dynamics in the isotropic to nematic phase transition of liquid crystals measured with 2D IR vibrational echo spectroscopy
Authors: Sokolowsky Kathleen P. , Bailey Heather E. , Fayer Michael D.
Published: November 2014

The isotropic phase of nematogenic liquid crystals has nanometer length scale domains with pseudonematic ordering. As the isotropic to nematic phase transition temperature (TNI) is approached from above, the orientational correlation length, ξ, of the pseudonematic domains grows as (T − T*)−1/2, where T* is 0.5–1 K below TNI. The orientational relaxation, which is a collective property of the pseudonematic domains, was measured with optical heterodyne detected-optical Kerr effect (OHD-OKE). The orientational relaxation obeys Landau-de Gennes theory, as has been shown previously. To examine the environmental evolution experienced by molecules in the pseudonematic domains, two-dimensional infrared (2D IR) vibrational echo experiments on the CN stretching mode of the non-perturbative vibrational probes 4-pentyl-4′-selenocyanobiphenyl (5SeCB) and 4-pentyl-4′-thiocyanobiphenyl (5SCB) in the nematogen 4-cyano-4′-pentylbiphenyl (5CB) were performed. The 2D IR experiments measure spectral diffusion, which is caused by structural fluctuations that couple to the CN vibrational frequency. Temperature dependent studies were performed just above TNI, where the correlation length of pseudonematic domains is large and changing rapidly with temperature. These studies were compared to 2D IR experiments on 4-pentylbiphenyl (5B), a non-mesogenic liquid that is very similar in structure to 5CB. The time constants of spectral diffusion in 5CB and 5B are practically identical at temperatures ≥5 K above TNI. As the temperature is lowered, spectral diffusion in 5B slows gradually. However, the time constants for spectral diffusion in 5CB slow dramatically and diverge as T* is approached. This divergence has temperature dependence proportional to (T − T*)−1/2, precisely the same as seen for the correlation length of pseudonematic domains, but different from the observed orientational relaxation times, which are given by the Landau-de Gennes theory. The data and previous results show that spectral diffusion in 5CB has no contributions from orientational relaxation, and the structural dynamics responsible for the spectral diffusion are likely a result of density fluctuations. The results suggest that the correlation length of the density fluctuations is diverging with the same temperature dependence as the pseudonematic domain correlation length, ξ. The isotropic-nematic phase transition in liquid crystals is described in the context of the slowing of orientational relaxation associated with divergent growth of the orientational correlation length. The results presented here show that there is another divergent dynamical process, likely associated with density fluctuations.
Six-axis multi-anvil press for high-pressure, high-temperature neutron diffraction experiments
Authors: Sano-Furukawa A. , Hattori T. , Arima H. , Yamada A. , Tabata S. , Kondo M. , Nakamura A. , Kagi H. , Yagi T.
Published: November 2014

We developed a six-axis multi-anvil press, ATSUHIME, for high-pressure and high-temperature in situ time-of-flight neutron powder diffraction experiments. The press has six orthogonally oriented hydraulic rams that operate individually to compress a cubic sample assembly. Experiments indicate that the press can generate pressures up to 9.3 GPa and temperatures up to 2000 K using a 6-6-type cell assembly, with available sample volume of about 50 mm3. Using a 6-8-type cell assembly, the available conditions expand to 16 GPa and 1273 K. Because the six-axis press has no guide blocks, there is sufficient space around the sample to use the aperture for diffraction and place an incident slit, radial collimators, and a neutron imaging camera close to the sample. Combination of the six-axis press and the collimation devices realized high-quality diffraction pattern with no contamination from the heater or the sample container surrounding the sample. This press constitutes a new tool for using neutron diffraction to study the structures of crystals and liquids under high pressures and temperatures.
Is isotropic turbulence decay governed by asymptotic behavior of large scales? An eddy-damped quasi-normal Markovian-based data assimilation study
Authors: Mons V. , Chassaing J.-C. , Gomez T. , Sagaut P.
Published: November 2014

The present paper deals with the identification of the scales and features of the initial kinetic energy spectrum that govern the decay regime of freely decaying homogeneous isotropic turbulence (HIT). To this end, a Data Assimilation (DA) study is performed, which is based on a variational optimal control problem with the eddy-damped quasi-normal Markovian (EDQNM) model whose adjoint equation is derived in the present work. The DA procedure consists in reconstructing the initial kinetic energy spectrum in order to minimize the error committed on some features of decaying turbulence with respect to a targeted EDQNM simulation. The present results show that the decay of HIT over finite time is governed by a finite range of large scales, i.e., the scales ranging from the initial to the final integral scales (or equivalently by wave numbers comprised between the initial and the final location of the peak of the energy spectrum). The important feature of the initial condition is the slope of the energy spectrum at these scales, if such a slope can be defined. This is coherent with previous findings dealing with decay of non-self-similar solutions, or with the key assumptions that underly the Comte-Bellot–Corrsin theory. A consequence is that the finite time decay of HIT is not driven by the asymptotic large-scale behavior of the energy spectrum E(k → 0, t = 0) or the velocity correlation function f(r → +∞, t = 0), or even scales such as kL ≪ 1 or L/r ≪ 1. Governing scales are such that kL(t) = O(1) for values of the integral scale L(t) observed during the finite time decay under consideration. As a matter of fact, a null sensitivity of finite time decay of turbulence with respect to the asymptotic large scale features of the initial condition is observed. Therefore, the asymptotic features of the initial condition should not be investigated defining an inverse problem based of features of turbulence decay observed over a finite time.
Characterization of amorphous multilayered ZnO-SnO2 heterostructure thin films and their field effect electronic properties
Authors: Lee Su-Jae , Hwang Chi-Sun , Pi Jae-Eun , Yang Jong-Heon , Oh Himchan , Cho Sung Haeng , Cho Kyoung-Ik , Chu Hye Yong
Published: November 2014

Multilayered ZnO-SnO2 heterostructure thin films were produced using pulsed laser ablation of pie-shaped ZnO-SnO2 oxides target, and their structural and field effect electronic transport properties were investigated as a function of the thickness of the ZnO and SnO2 layers. The films have an amorphous multilayered heterostructure composed of the periodic stacking of the ZnO and SnO2 layers. The field effect electronic properties of amorphous multilayered ZnO-SnO2 heterostructure thin film transistors (TFTs) are highly dependent on the thickness of the ZnO and SnO2 layers. The highest electron mobility of 37 cm2/V s, a low subthreshold swing of a 0.19 V/decade, a threshold voltage of 0.13 V, and a high drain current on-to-off ratio of ∼1010 obtained for the amorphous multilayered ZnO(1.5 nm)-SnO2(1.5 nm) heterostructure TFTs. These results are presumed to be due to the unique electronic structure of an amorphous multilayered ZnO-SnO2 heterostructure film consisting of ZnO, SnO2, and ZnO-SnO2 interface layers.
Control of the magnetic vortex chirality in Permalloy nanowires with asymmetric notches
Authors: Brandão J. , Novak R. L. , Lozano H. , Soledade P. R. , Mello A. , Garcia F. , Sampaio L. C.
Published: November 2014

We have investigated the motion of vortex domain walls passing across non symmetric triangular notches in single Permalloy nanowires. We have measured hysteresis cycles using the focused magneto-optical Kerr effect before and beyond the notch, which allowed to probe beyond the notch the occurrence probability of clockwise (CW) and counter-CW (CCW) walls in tail-to-tail (TT) and head-to-head (HH) configurations. We present experimental evidence of chirality flipping provided by the vortex–notch interaction. With a low exit angle, the probability of chirality flipping increases and here with the lowest angle of 15°, the probability of propagation of the energetically favored domain wall configuration (CCW for TT or CW for HH walls) is ≈75%. Micromagnetic simulations reveal details of the chirality reversal dynamics.
Modeling cardiorespiratory interaction during human sleep with complex networks
Authors: Long Xi , Fonseca Pedro , Aarts Ronald M. , Haakma Reinder , Foussier Jérôme
Published: November 2014

Human sleep comprises several stages including wake, rapid-eye-movement sleep, light sleep, and deep sleep. Cardiorespiratory activity has been shown to correlate with sleep stages due to the regulation of autonomic nervous system. Here, the cardiorespiratory interaction (CRI) during sleep is analyzed using a visibility graph (VG) method that represents the CRI time series in complex networks. We demonstrate that the dynamics of the interaction between heartbeats and respiration can be revealed by VG-based networks, whereby sleep stages can be characterized and differentiated.
Griffiths phase, spin-phonon coupling, and exchange bias effect in double perovskite Pr2CoMnO6
Authors: Liu Wenjie , Shi Lei , Zhou Shiming , Zhao Jiyin , Li Yang , Guo Yuqiao
Published: November 2014

The ceramic Pr2CoMnO6 of double perovskite structure is prepared by a solid-state reaction and the magnetic properties, phonon behaviors are studied in detail. Two ferromagnetic transitions at TC1 ∼ 172 K and TC2 ∼ 140 K are observed in the temperature-dependent magnetization curves, respectively. Furthermore, a detail analysis on the magnetic susceptibility reveals that a short-range ferromagnetic clustered state exists above TC1, which can be well described as the Griffiths phase with a well-defined Griffiths temperature TG ∼ 210 K. The presence of the B-site antisite defects is considered to contribute to the observed Griffiths singularity. Temperature-dependent Raman scattering experiment reveals an obvious softening of the phonon mode involving stretching vibrations of the (Co/Mn)O6 octahedra in FM temperature regions, indicating a close correlation between magnetism and lattice in Pr2CoMnO6. On the other hand, it is found that the phonon softening extends up to TG, which further confirms the preformation of the short-range ferromagnetic clusters up to TG. Moreover, the field-cooling magnetic hysteresis loop reveals that exchange bias phenomena is present, which is supposed to origin from the exchange coupling between Co/Mn ordered ferromagnetic phases with antiferromagnetic antiphase boundaries caused by the partially Co/Mn antisite disorders. These findings give a systematic understanding on the magnetic interaction in Pr2CoMnO6 which is closely related to the lattice and atomic distribution, and add special interest for application of this material.
Structural and electrical behavior of Ba-doped LaGaO3 composite electrolyte
Authors: Sood Kapil , Singh K. , Pandey O. P.
Published: November 2014

In the present work, Ba-doped lanthanum gallate (La1−xBaxGaO3−δ with x = 0, 0.05, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20) have been prepared by solid-state reaction method. X-ray diffraction confirms the formation of perovskite structure with orthorhombic symmetry. Furthermore, Ba doping leads to partial stabilization of rhombohedral phase at room temperature. In addition, the grain size of perovskite phase (LaGaO3) decreased with Ba-dopant. La0.85Ba0.15GaO3−δ exhibits the highest conductivity of the order of 6 × 10−3 S cm−1 at 800 °C. The rhombohedral phase formation also enhances the ionic conductivity of the composite system. The calculated activation energy for all the doped samples varied from 0.62 to 0.66 eV in the temperature range of 600 to 800 °C, which indicates that the conduction behavior is mainly ionic. Coefficient of thermal expansion for La0.85Ba0.15GaO3−δ is 10.8 × 10−6 °C−1 from 600 to 800 °C, which is in the range required for solid oxide fuel cell applications.
On the exact analytical solution of some families of equilibrium critical thickness transcendental equations
Authors: Perovich Slavica M. , Calasan Martin P. , Toskovic Ranko
Published: November 2014

The problem of finding an exact analytical closed-form solution of some families of transcendental equations, which describe the equilibrium critical thickness of misfit dislocation generation in epitaxial thin films, is studied in some detail by the Special Trans Functions Theory (STFT). A novel STFT mathematical approach with an analytical closed-form solution is presented. Structure of the STFT exact solutions, numerical results and graphical simulations confirm the validity of the basic principle of the STFT. The proposed STFT analytical approach shows qualitative improvement in theoretical sense (a novel gradient coefficient genesis), and, in accuracy when compared to the conventional analytical and numerical methods.
Phase locking of vortex cores in two coupled magnetic nanopillars
Authors: Zhu Qiyuan , Liu Xianyin , Zheng Qi , Zhang Senfu , Wang Jianbo , Liu Qingfang
Published: November 2014

Phase locking dynamics of the coupled vortex cores in two identical magnetic spin valves induced by spin-polarized current are studied by means of micromagnetic simulations. Our results show that the available current range of phase locking can be expanded significantly by the use of constrained polarizer, and the vortices undergo large orbit motions outside the polarization areas. The effects of polarization areas and dipolar interaction on the phase locking dynamics are studied systematically. Phase locking parameters extracted from simulations are discussed by theoreticians. The dynamics of vortices influenced by spin valve geometry and vortex chirality are discussed at last. This work provides deeper insights into the dynamics of phase locking and the results are important for the design of spin-torque nano-oscillators.
Association of decreased spermatozoa omega-3 fatty acid levels and increased oxidative DNA damage with varicocele in infertile men: a case control study
Authors: Tang Li-Xin , Yuan Dong-Juan , Wang Qi-Ling , Jiang Fang , Guo Jian , Tang Yun-Ge , Zheng Li-Xin , Kang Jing X.
Published: November 2014

Varicocele is commonly associated with male infertility because it impairs normal sperm morphology and activity. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are important determinants of sperm cell structure and function, but their relationship with varicocele remains unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate the PUFA composition in spermatozoa of infertile men with varicocele and to evaluate the potential relationship between PUFA and varicocele. This case control study recruited 92 infertile men with varicocele, 99 infertile men without varicocele and 95 fertile male control subjects. Semen morphology and activity parameters were assessed and seminal plasma 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) content was determined by ELISA. Sperm concentrations of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids were measured by gas chromatography. Infertile men with varicocele had lower concentrations of omega-3 PUFA, higher omega-6 : omega-3 PUFA ratios and greater oxidative DNA damage in spermatozoa compared with infertile men without varicocele and normal subjects. The degree of varicocele and DNA damage was associated with decreased omega-3 PUFA concentrations and semen quality in infertile men with varicocele. The findings suggest that omega-3 PUFA deficiency could be implicated in varicocele-associated infertility, and highlight the need for intervention trials to test the usefulness of omega-3 supplementation in reducing sperm abnormalities in infertile men with varicocele.
Santa Ana winds and predictors of wildfire progression in southern California
Authors: Billmire Michael , French Nancy H. F. , Loboda Tatiana , Owen R. Chris , Tyner Marlene
Published: November 2014

Santa Ana winds have been implicated as a major driver of large wildfires in southern California. While numerous anecdotal reports exist, there is little quantitative analysis in peer-reviewed literature on how this weather phenomenon influences fire progression rates. We analysed fire progression within 158 fire events in southern California as a function of meteorologically defined Santa Ana conditions between 2001 and 2009. Our results show quantitatively that burned area per day is 3.5–4.5 times larger on Santa Ana days than on non-Santa Ana days. Santa Ana definition parameters (relative humidity, wind speed) along with other predictor variables (air temperature, fuel temperature, 10-h fuel moisture, population density, slope, fuel loading, previous-day burn perimeter) were tested individually and in combination for correlation with subsets of daily burned area. Relative humidity had the most consistently strong correlation with burned area per day. Gust and peak wind speed had a strong positive correlation with burned area per day particularly within subsets of burned area representing only the first day of a fire, >500 ha burned areas, and on Santa Ana days. The suite of variables comprising the best-fit generalised linear model for predicting burned area (R2 = 0.41) included relative humidity, peak wind speed, previous-day burn perimeter and two binary indicators for first and last day of a fire event.
A network of assembly factors is involved in remodeling rRNA elements during preribosome maturation
Authors: Baßler Jochen , Paternoga Helge , Holdermann Iris , Thoms Matthias , Granneman Sander , Barrio-Garcia Clara , Nyarko Afua , Lee Woonghee , Stier Gunter , Clark Sarah A. , Schraivogel Daniel , Kallas Martina , Beckmann Roland , Tollervey David , Barbar Elisar , Sinning Irmi , Hurt Ed
Published: November 2014

Eukaryotic ribosome biogenesis involves ∼200 assembly factors, but how these contribute to ribosome maturation is poorly understood. Here, we identify a network of factors on the nascent 60S subunit that actively remodels preribosome structure. At its hub is Rsa4, a direct substrate of the force-generating ATPase Rea1. We show that Rsa4 is connected to the central protuberance by binding to Rpl5 and to ribosomal RNA (rRNA) helix 89 of the nascent peptidyl transferase center (PTC) through Nsa2. Importantly, Nsa2 binds to helix 89 before relocation of helix 89 to the PTC. Structure-based mutations of these factors reveal the functional importance of their interactions for ribosome assembly. Thus, Rsa4 is held tightly in the preribosome and can serve as a “distribution box,” transmitting remodeling energy from Rea1 into the developing ribosome. We suggest that a relay-like factor network coupled to a mechano-enzyme is strategically positioned to relocate rRNA elements during ribosome maturation.
A molecular chain gang at work in maturing ribosomes
Authors: Leslie Mitch
Published: November 2014

Study finds interconnected molecules that reorganize preribosomes.
Reporting Outcome Measures of Functional Constipation in Children From 0 to 4 Years of Age
Authors: Kuizenga‐Wessel Sophie , Benninga Marc A. , Tabbers Merit M.
Published: November 2014

Functional constipation (FC) often begins in the first year of life. Although standard definitions and criteria have been formulated to describe FC, these are rarely used in research and clinical practice. The aim of the study is to systematically assess how definitions and outcome measures are defined in therapeutic randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of infants with FC. PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were searched. Studies were included if it was a (systematic review of) therapeutic RCT, children ≤4 years old, they had FC, a clear definition of constipation was provided, and were written in English. Quality was assessed using the Delphi list. A total of 1115 articles were found; only 5 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Four different definitions were used, of which only 2 used the internationally accepted Rome III criteria. Defecation frequency was used as primary outcome in all included trials and stool consistency in 3 trials. Two trials involving infants investigated new infant formulas, whereas the third RCT evaluated the efficacy of a probiotic strain. The 2 trials including infants up to 4 years of age compared polyethylene glycol without electrolytes (PEG4000) with lactulose and milk of magnesia. All of the trials used nonvalidated parental diaries. Different definitions and outcome measures for FC in infants are used in RCTs. Disappointingly, there is a lack of well‐designed therapeutic trials in infants with constipation. To make comparison between future trials possible, standard definitions, core outcomes, and validated instruments are needed.
Glucose Hydrogen Breath Test for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth in Children With Abdominal Pain–Related Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders
Authors: Korterink Judith J. , Benninga Marc A. , van Wering Herbert M. , Deckers‐Kocken Judith M.
Published: November 2014

Objectives:

A potential link between small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and abdominal pain–related functional gastrointestinal disorders (AP‐FGID) has been suggested by symptom similarities and by the reported prevalence of SIBO in children with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional AP. The aim of this study is to evaluate the prevalence of SIBO using the glucose hydrogen breath test (GHBT), in a cohort of Dutch children with AP‐FGID fulfilling the Rome III criteria, and to identify potential predictors.

Methods:

Children ages 6 to 18 years with AP‐FGID fulfilling the Rome III criteria were included. All of the children underwent a GHBT. SIBO was diagnosed if the fasting breath hydrogen concentration was ≥20 ppm or an increase in H2 levels of ≥12 ppm above the baseline value was measured after ingestion of glucose. Gastrointestinal symptoms were collected using a standardised AP questionnaire.

Results:

A total of 161 Dutch children with AP‐FGID were enrolled. Twenty‐three patients (14.3%) were diagnosed as having SIBO, as assessed by GHBT; 78% of the children diagnosed as having SIBO had fasting hydrogen levels ≥20 ppm. IBS was significantly more found in children with SIBO compared with children without SIBO (P = 0.001). An altered defecation pattern (ie, change in frequency or form of stool) (P = 0.013), loss of appetite (P = 0.007), and belching (P = 0.023) were significantly more found in children with SIBO compared with those without SIBO.

Conclusions:

SIBO is present in 14.3% of children presenting with AP‐FGID. IBS, altered defecation pattern, loss of appetite, and belching were predictors for SIBO in children with AP‐FGID.
Human Milk Bactericidal Properties
Authors: Salcedo Jaime , Gormaz Maria , López‐Mendoza Maria C. , Nogarotto Elisabetta , Silvestre Dolores
Published: November 2014

Objective:

Lyophilization appears to be a viable method for storing human milk, assuring no microbiological contamination and preserving its health benefits and antibacterial properties. The aim of the study is to evaluate and compare the effects of different storage methods (lyophilization and freezing at −20°C and −80°C) and maternal factors (gestational length or time postpartum) upon the microbiological contents and bactericidal activity of human milk. The possible relation between bactericidal activity and the content of certain nutrients and functional components is also investigated.

Methods:

Microbiological content, bactericidal activity, sialic acid, and ganglioside contents, as well as protein, fat, and lactose concentrations were assessed in 125 human milk samples from 65 healthy donors in the Human Milk Bank of La Fe (Valencia, Spain).

Results:

Lyophilization and storage at −80°C significantly reduced the content of mesophilic aerobic microorganisms and Staphylococcus epidermidis when compared with storage at −20°C. Bactericidal activity was not significantly modified by lyophilization when compared with freezing at either −20°C or −80°C. Bactericidal activity was not correlated with fat, protein, or lactose content, but was significantly correlated to ganglioside content. The bactericidal activity was significantly greater (P < 0.05) in mature milk and in milk from women with term delivery than in milk from early lactation (days 1–7 postpartum) and milk from women with preterm delivery, respectively.

Conclusions:

Lyophilization and storage at −80°C of human milk yields similar results and are superior to storage at −20C with regard to microbial and bactericidal capacities, being a feasible alternative for human milk banks.
Mapping the landscape of climate engineering
Authors: Oldham P. , Szerszynski B. , Stilgoe J. , Brown C. , Eacott B. , Yuille A.
Published: November 2014

In the absence of a governance framework for climate engineering technologies such as solar radiation management (SRM), the practices of scientific research and intellectual property acquisition can de facto shape the development of the field. It is therefore important to make visible emerging patterns of research and patenting, which we suggest can effectively be done using bibliometric methods. We explore the challenges in defining the boundary of climate engineering, and set out the research strategy taken in this study. A dataset of 825 scientific publications on climate engineering between 1971 and 2013 was identified, including 193 on SRM; these are analysed in terms of trends, institutions, authors and funders. For our patent dataset, we identified 143 first filings directly or indirectly related to climate engineering technologies—of which 28 were related to SRM technologies—linked to 910 family members. We analyse the main patterns discerned in patent trends, applicants and inventors. We compare our own findings with those of an earlier bibliometric study of climate engineering, and show how our method is consistent with the need for transparency and repeatability, and the need to adjust the method as the field develops. We conclude that bibliometric monitoring techniques can play an important role in the anticipatory governance of climate engineering.
Tepidisphaera mucosa gen. nov., sp. nov., a moderately thermophilic member of the class Phycisphaerae in the phylum Planctomycetes, and proposal of a new family, Tepidisphaeraceae fam. nov., and a new order, Tepidisphaerales ord. nov.
Authors: Kovaleva O. L. , Merkel A. Yu. , Novikov A. A. , Baslerov R. V. , Toshchakov S. V. , Bonch-Osmolovskaya E. A.
Published: November 2014

Three strains of facultatively aerobic, moderately thermophilic bacteria were isolated from terrestrial hot springs in Baikal Lake region and Kamchatka (Russia). Cells of the new isolates were cocci reproducing by binary fission. The temperature range for growth was between 20 and 56 °C and the pH range for growth from pH 4.5 to 8.5, with optimal growth at 47–50 °C and pH 7.0–7.5. The organisms were chemoheterotrophs preferring sugars and polysaccharides as growth substrates. 16S rRNA gene sequences of strains 2842, 2813 and 2918Kr were nearly identical (99.7–100 % similarity) and indicated that the strains belonged to the phylumPlanctomycetes. The phylogenetically closest cultivated relatives wereAlgisphaera agarilytica06SJR6-2TandPhycisphaera mikurensisFYK2301M01Twith 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity values of 82.4 and 80.3 %, respectively. The novel strains differed from them by higher growth temperature, sensitivity to NaCl concentration above 3.0 % and by their cellular fatty acids profile. On the basis of phylogenetic and physiological data, strains 2842T, 2813 and 2918Kr represent a novel genus and species for which we propose the nameTepidisphaera mucosasp. nov. The type strain is 2842T( = VKM B-2832T = JCM 19875T). We also propose thatTepidisphaeragen. nov. is the type genus of a novel family,Tepidisphaeraceaefam. nov. and a novel order,Tepidisphaeralesord. nov.
Differential involvement of amygdala and cortical NMDA receptors activation upon encoding in odor fear memory
Authors: Hegoburu Chloé , Parrot Sandrine , Ferreira Guillaume , Mouly Anne-Marie
Published: November 2014

Although the basolateral amygdala (BLA) plays a crucial role for the acquisition of fear memories, sensory cortices are involved in their long-term storage in rats. However, the time course of their respective involvement has received little investigation. Here we assessed the role of the glutamatergic N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the BLA and olfactory cortex at discrete moments of an odor fear conditioning session. We showed that NMDA receptors in BLA are critically involved in odor fear acquisition during the first association but not during the next ones. In the cortex, NMDA receptor activation at encoding is not necessary for recent odor fear memory while its role in remote memory storage needs further investigation.
Crystal structure of propaquizafop
Authors: Jeon Youngeun , Kim Jineun , Lee Sangjin , Kim Tae Ho
Published: November 2014

The title compound, C22H22ClN3O5{systematic name: 2-(propan-2-ylideneaminooxy)ethyl (R)-2-[4-(6-chloroquinoxalin-2-yloxy)phenoxy]propionate}, is a herbicide. The asymmetric unit comprises two independent molecules in which the dihedral angles between the phenyl ring and the quinoxaline ring plane are 75.93 (7) and 82.77 (8)°. The crystal structure features C—H...O, C—H...N, and C—H...Cl hydrogen bonds, as well as weak π–π interactions [ring-centroid separation = 3.782 (2) and 3.5952 (19) Å], resulting in a three-dimensional architecture.
Two-dimensional hydrogen-bonded polymers in the crystal structures of the ammonium salts of phenoxyacetic acid, (4-fluorophenoxy)acetic acid and (4-chloro-2-methylphenoxy)acetic acid
Authors: Smith Graham
Published: November 2014

The structures of the ammonium salts of phenoxyacetic acid, NH4+·C8H6O3−, (I), (4-fluorophenoxy)acetic acid, NH4+·C8H5FO3−, (II), and the herbicidally active (4-chloro-2-methylphenoxy)acetic acid (MCPA), NH4+·C9H8ClO3−·0.5H2O, (III) have been determined. All have two-dimensional layered structures based on inter-species ammonium N—H...O hydrogen-bonding associations, which give core substructures consisting primarily of conjoined cyclic motifs. The crystals of (I) and (II) are isomorphous with the core comprisingR12(5),R12(4) and centrosymmetricR42(8) ring motifs, giving two-dimensional layers lying parallel to (100). In (III), the water molecule of solvation lies on a crystallographic twofold rotation axis and bridges two carboxyl O atoms in anR44(12) hydrogen-bonded motif, creating twoR43(10) rings, which together with a conjoined centrosymmetricR42(8) ring incorporating both ammonium cations, generate two-dimensional layers lying parallel to (100). No π–π ring associations are present in any of the structures.
Crystal structure of tricarbonyl(N-diphenylphosphanyl-N,N′-diisopropyl-P-phenylphosphonous diamide-κ2P,P′)cobalt(I) tetracarbonylcobaltate(−I) toluene 0.25-solvate
Authors: Dura Laura , Spannenberg Anke , Beweries Torsten
Published: November 2014

The asymmetric unit of the title compound, [Co(C24H30N2P2)(CO)3][Co(CO)4]·0.25C7H8, consists of two crystallographically independent cations with similar conformations, two anions, and one-half of a toluene molecule disordered about an inversion centre. In the cations, a Co/P/N/P four-membered slightly bent metallacycle is the key structural element. The pendant NH group is not coordinated to the CoIatom, which displays a distorted trigonal–bipyramidal coordination geometry. Weak interionic hydrogen bonds are observed between the NH groups and a carbonyl group of the tetrahedral [Co(CO)4]−anions.
Crystallization behavior of diblock copolymers based on PCL and PLLA biopolymers
Authors: Navarro-Baena Iván , Marcos-Fernandez Angel , Kenny José M. , Peponi Laura
Published: November 2014

This paper aims to increase the knowledge on the crystallinity features of diblock copolymers based on poly(∊-caprolactone) (PCL) and poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA). Six diblock copolymers have been synthesized starting from a synthesized PCL with a molecular weight of around 5000 g mol−1, varying the molecular weight of the PLLA block. The crystalline unit cells for both PCL and PLLA blocks have been studied with wide-angle X-ray diffraction analysis. The effects of the copolymer composition on the crystalline cell parameters as well as on the degree of crystallinity and the crystallite sizes, determined using the Scherrer equation, are discussed. The double-crystalline nature of the diblock copolymer was confirmed by small-angle X-ray scattering experiments. This technique was also used to study the melting behavior of the copolymers by studying the variation of the diffraction spectra with temperature. The effects of PCL chains on the packing of the PLLA lamellae are discussed. Finally, the crystallization behavior was studied by differential scanning calorimetry analysis, performing experiments at different crystallization temperatures and studying the results by fitting the experimental data with an Avrami-type equation. The influence of each block on the crystallization parameters of the other block are discussed. This study allows a better understanding of the effects of the chemical structure on the crystalline behavior of these block copolymers, leading to the possibility to tailor the materials for specific applications.
Two new thiophosphoramide structures:N,N′,N′′-tricyclohexylphosphorothioic triamide andO,O′-diethyl (2-phenylhydrazin-1-yl)thiophosphonate
Authors: Pourayoubi Mehrdad , Abrishami Mozhgan , Eigner Václav , Nečas Marek , Dušek Michal , Delavar Mahmoud
Published: November 2014

The compoundN,N′,N′′-tricyclohexylphosphorothioic triamide, C18H36N3PS or P(S)[NHC6H11]3, (I), crystallizes in the space groupPnmawith the molecule lying across a mirror plane; one N atom lies on the mirror plane, whereas the bond-angle sum at the other N atom has a deviation of some 8° from the ideal value of 360° for a planar configuration. The orientation of the atoms attached to this nonplanar N atom corresponds to anantiorientation of the corresponding lone electron pair (LEP) with respect to the P=S group. The P=S bond length of 1.9785 (6) Å is within the expected range for compounds with a P(S)[N]3skeleton; however, it is in the region of the longest bond lengths found for analogous structures. This may be due to the involvement of the P=S group in N—H...S=P hydrogen bonds. InO,O′-diethyl (2-phenylhydrazin-1-yl)thiophosphonate, C10H17N2O2PS or P(S)[OC2H5]2[NHNHC6H5], (II), the bond-angle sum at the N atom attached to the phenyl ring is 345.1°, whereas, for the N atom bonded to the P atom, a practically planar environment is observed, with a bond-angle sum of 359.1°. A Cambridge Structural Database [CSD; Allen (2002).Acta Cryst. B58, 380–388] analysis shows a shift of the maximum population of P=S bond lengths in compounds with a P(S)[O]2[N] skeleton to the shorter bond lengths relative to compounds with a P(S)[N]3skeleton. The influence of this difference on the collective tendencies of N...S distances in N—H...S hydrogen bonds for structures with P(S)[N]3and P(S)[O]2[N] segments were studied through a CSD analysis.
Effective supervision of Islamic insurance according to Malaysian experience (1984-2012)
Authors: Berkem Zoheir
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to know the method adopted by the Malaysian supervisor to regulate the Takaful sector, and to propose a new approach related to the effective supervision.

Design/methodology/approach

– The key approach in this paper is a case study over a clear period of time, to discover a wide variety of economical, financial, social, and cultural factors potentially related to Malaysian Takaful system. In addition, both explanatory and descriptive approaches are used, to seek explanations of problems, make careful observations, and give detailed recommendations. The study collected relevant quantitative and qualitative data.

Findings

– The key findings are: the basis of Takaful’s operation is established on the principles of Islamic Laws, Takaful operations are regulated by the Central Bank, this supervisory body has adopted elements of the two methods: regulation and supervision, the Malaysian Takaful industry has experienced rapid growth and transformation, and the proposed approach includes four key elements.

Research limitations/implications

– This study provides a road map for the next studies in this new topic.

Practical implications

– The paper guides the policy makers to giving more independence and allocating more resources to the supervisory body, for the development of an important component of the financial system.

Originality/value

– The essay is distinguished from the previous researches by limiting and identifying a clear period of the study. Further, the authors have listed the most important elements of the leading programs. Finally, the approach is more concerned with new aspects of the ongoing supervision, strategic axis and the supervision stages.
Buying a product for an anticipated consumption situation
Authors: Hirche Martin , Bruwer Johan
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this study is to measure the product involvement of wine buyers and to examine relationships with anticipated consumption situations, places and occasions combined with the buyer’s importance of various extrinsic product attributes.

Design/methodology/approach

– A survey is conducted with 147 wine buyers using structured self-administered questionnaires in a central city retail location in Australia.

Findings

– There are no significant relationships between consumers’ involvement with wine products and what occasion or constellation of persons is anticipated when purchasing wine in a retail store. From a consumption situation perspective, both high- and low-involved buyers primarily anticipate consuming their wine together with other persons, mainly with food. High-involved wine consumers tend to consume their wine alone compared to low-involved consumers who are more likely to buy wine for other persons than for themselves. Regarding the product attributes that play an important role in retailing, this study finds that the importance of grape variety, the origin of the wine, the brand, the vintage, awards/medals and the product design increases with growing involvement in wine. The age of the buyer/consumer and the envisaged consumption occasion also affect the importance of various product attributes. We also find that wine buyers would spend on average over $15 more per unit when the wine is not bought for their personal consumption (e.g. gift).

Originality/value

– This study is of value to academic researchers, the wine industry in general and wine retailers in specific as it offers new insights on the role of product involvement and anticipated consumption situations when buying a product and their effects on the importance of product attributes.