bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterometallic Complexes with Gold(I) Metalloligands: Self‐Assembly of Helical Dimers Stabilized by Weak Intermolecular Interactions and Solvophobic Effects
Authors: Cámara Verónica , Barquero Natalia , Bautista Delia , Gil‐Rubio Juan , Vicente José
Published: December 2014

New gold(I) alkynyl metalloligands bpylCCAuL, bpyl′CCAuPPh3, and PPN[Au(CCbpyl′)2] (bpyl or bpyl′=2,2′‐bipyridin‐5‐yl or −4‐yl, respectively; L=PMexPh3−x (x=1–3), P(C6H3Me2‐3,5)3, PCy3, XyNC) have been synthesized. Ligands bpylCCH and metalloligands bpylCCAuL (L=PPh3, PMePh2, PCy3, CNXy) react with MX2 (M=Fe, Zn, X=ClO4; M=Co, X=BF4) to give complexes [M(bpylCCZ)3]X2 (Z=H or AuL). In most cases, these complexes are mixtures of fac and mer isomers in a statistical distribution, in both CH2Cl2 and MeCN. However, for L=PPh3, the fac isomer is dominant in MeCN. NMR and ESI‐MS studies, together with the crystal structure of [Co(bpylCCAuPPh3)3](BF4)2, suggest that this solvent dependence is originated by the formation of helical dimers between two fac complexes in MeCN. These dimers are stabilized by solvophobic effects and multiple intermolecular interactions. Complex [Fe(Ph3PAuCCbpdiylCCAuPPh3)3](ClO4)2 (bpdiyl=2,2′‐bipyridin‐5,5′‐diyl) was obtained by reaction of three diauro diethynylbipyridines and Fe(ClO4)2.
Small‐Molecule Inhibitors That Target Protein–Protein Interactions in the RAD51 Family of Recombinases
Authors: Scott Duncan E. , Coyne Anthony G. , Venkitaraman Ashok , Blundell Tom L. , Abell Chris , Hyvönen Marko
Published: December 2014

The development of small molecules that inhibit protein–protein interactions continues to be a challenge in chemical biology and drug discovery. Herein we report the development of indole‐based fragments that bind in a shallow surface pocket of a humanised surrogate of RAD51. RAD51 is an ATP‐dependent recombinase that plays a key role in the repair of double‐strand DNA breaks. It both self‐associates, forming filament structures with DNA, and interacts with the BRCA2 protein through a common “FxxA” tetrapeptide motif. We elaborated previously identified fragment hits that target the FxxA motif site and developed small‐molecule inhibitors that are approximately 500‐fold more potent than the initial fragments. The lead compounds were shown to compete with the BRCA2‐derived Ac‐FHTA‐NH2 peptide and the self‐association peptide of RAD51, but they had no effect on ATP binding. This study is the first reported elaboration of small‐molecular‐weight fragments against this challenging target.
Dissecting Cooperative Communications in a Protein with a High‐Throughput Single‐Molecule Scalpel
Authors: Yu Zhongbo , Cui Yunxi , Selvam Sangeetha , Ghimire Chiran , Mao Hanbin
Published: December 2014

Miscued communication often leads to misfolding and aggregation of the proteins involved in many diseases. Owing to the ensemble average property of conventional techniques, detailed communication diagrams are difficult to obtain. Mechanical unfolding affords an unprecedented perspective on cooperative transitions by observing a protein along a trajectory defined by two mutated cysteine residues. Nevertheless, this approach requires tedious sample preparation at the risk of altering native protein conformations. To address these issues, we applied click chemistry to tether a protein to the two dsDNA handles through primary amines in lysine residues as well as at the N terminus. As a proof of concept, we used laser tweezers to mechanically unfold and refold calmodulin along 36 trajectories, maximally allowed by this strategy in a single batch of protein preparation. Without a priori knowledge of the particular residues to which the double‐stranded DNA handles attach, we used hierarchical cluster analysis to identify 20 major trajectories, according to the size and the pattern of unfolding transitions. We dissected the cooperativity into all‐or‐none and partially cooperative events, which represent strong and weak high‐order interactions in proteins, respectively. Although the overall cooperativity is higher within the N or C lobe than that between the lobes, the all‐or‐none cooperativity is anisotropic among different the unfolding trajectories and becomes relatively more predominant when the size of the protein segments increases. The average cooperativity for all‐or‐none transitions falls within the expected range observed by ensemble techniques, which supports the hypothesis that unfolding of a free protein can be reconstituted from individual trajectories.
Zirconium and Hafnium Twin Monomers for Mixed Oxides
Authors: Schliebe Christian , Gemming Thomas , Noll Julian , Mertens Lutz , Mehring Michael , Seifert Andreas , Spange Stefan , Lang Heinrich
Published: December 2014

The synthesis of Zr and Hf twin monomers of type [M(2‐OCH2cC4H3O)4(x HOCH2cC4H3O)] (3, M=Zr, x=0; 4, M=Hf, x=1) and M[(2‐OCH2‐C6H4O)2(2‐HOCH2‐C6H4OH)] (5, M=Zr; 6, M=Hf) by reacting M(OR)4 (M=Zr, R=nC3H7, 1; M=Hf, R=nC4H9, 2) with 2‐furylmethanol or 2‐hydroxybenzyl alcohol is discussed. Complexes 3–6 were homopolymerized under acidic conditions. Additionally, 5 and 6 were copolymerized with 2,2′‐spirobi[4 H‐1,3,2‐benzodioxasiline] (SBS). Under acidic conditions SBS forms a phenolic resin/SiO2 nanostructured material. The resulting hybrid materials from the homopolymerization of 3–6 and the copolymerized materials from 5 and 6 were characterized by standard solid‐state analytics. The inorganic lattice of the MO2 materials from the homopolymerized complexes 3–6 and SiO2/MO2 from the copolymerization of 5 and 6 with SBS was obtained by air oxidation. The oxide materials were characterized by X‐ray powder diffraction (XRPD) and energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis, which proved their identity. The inner surface area was determined by N2 adsorption/desorption studies, which revealed surface areas of 100 m2 g−1 for MO2. The mixed oxides SiO2/MO2 were additionally investigated by differential scanning calorimetry and variable‐temperature XRPD to study the thermal behavior. It was found that crystallization of tetragonal MO2 nanoparticles is characteristic within the SiO2 matrix, but higher sintering temperatures caused crystallization of the SiO2 lattice.
Titanium Oxynitride Interlayer to Influence Oxygen Reduction Reaction Activity and Corrosion Stability of Pt and Pt–Ni Alloy
Authors: Tan XueHai , Wang Liya , Zahiri Beniamin , Kohandehghan Alireza , Karpuzov Dimitre , Lotfabad Elmira Memarzadeh , Li Zhi , Eikerling Michael H. , Mitlin David
Published: December 2014

A key advancement target for oxygen reduction reaction catalysts is to simultaneously improve both the electrochemical activity and durability. To this end, the efficacy of a new highly conductive support that comprises of a 0.5 nm titanium oxynitride film coated by atomic layer deposition onto an array of carbon nanotubes has been investigated. Support effects for pure platinum and for a platinum (50 at %)/nickel alloy have been considered. Oxynitride induces a downshift in the d‐band center for pure platinum and fundamentally changes the platinum particle size and spatial distribution. This results in major enhancements in activity and corrosion stability relative to an identically synthesized catalyst without the interlayer. Conversely, oxynitride has a minimal effect on the electronic structure and microstructure, and therefore, on the catalytic performance of platinum–nickel. Calculations based on density functional theory add insight with regard to compositional segregation that occurs at the alloy catalyst–support interface.
Serum ferritin and glucose homeostasis: change in the association by glycaemic state
Authors: Aregbesola Alex , Virtanen Jyrki K. , Voutilainen Sari , Mursu Jaakko , Lagundoye Ayodele , Kauhanen Jussi , Tuomainen Tomi‐Pekka
Published: December 2014

Background

Data on the association between body iron and glucose homeostasis by the three glycaemic states are scarce. Thus, we investigated the association between body iron as assessed by a serum ferritin concentration and glucose homeostasis using homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) and beta cell function (HOMA‐BcF) in different glycaemic states.

Methods

A cross‐sectional analysis was conducted in 2541 men aged 42–60 years in 1984–1989 in the Kuopio Ischemic Heart Disease Risk Factor Study. Subjects were classified into the three glycaemic states, normoglycaemia, prediabetes and type 2 diabetes (T2D), by fasting plasma glucose measurements and the information collected at study visit. The association between serum ferritin quartiles and HOMA‐IR and HOMA‐BcF for each glycaemic state was examined by analysis of covariance and linear regression analysis.

Results

The mean age and serum ferritin concentrations were 53.1 years (standard deviation = 5.7, range = 42.0–61.3 years) and 166.2 µg/L (standard deviation = 141.7, range = 11–960 µg/L), respectively. After multivariable adjustments, a weak and direct association was observed between serum ferritin quartiles and HOMA‐IR in normoglycaemia (P‐trend = 0.001) but a direct association in prediabetes (P‐trend = 0.007) and in T2D (P‐trend = 0.078). In HOMA‐BcF, the association was weak and direct in normoglycaemia (P‐trend = 0.003), direct in prediabetes (P‐trend = 0.005) and inverse in T2D (P‐trend = 0.105). Strongest associations were observed in prediabetes (β = 0.25, 95% confidence interval = 0.14–0.36 and P = 0.004 in HOMA‐IR; β = 0.23, 95% confidence interval = 0.15–0.31 and P = 0.008 in HOMA‐BcF) after a 100‐µg/L increase in serum ferritin (log‐transformed).

Conclusions

These data suggest that both the strength and the direction of the association between body iron stores and glucose homeostasis are dependent on the glycaemic state of the population. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Trait‐specific consequences of inbreeding on adaptive phenotypic plasticity
Authors: Schou Mads F. , Kristensen Torsten N. , Loeschcke Volker
Published: December 2014

Environmental changes may stress organisms and stimulate an adaptive phenotypic response. Effects of inbreeding often interact with the environment and can decrease fitness of inbred individuals exposed to stress more so than that of outbred individuals. Such an interaction may stem from a reduced ability of inbred individuals to respond plastically to environmental stress; however, this hypothesis has rarely been tested. In this study, we mimicked the genetic constitution of natural inbred populations by rearing replicate Drosophila melanogaster populations for 25 generations at a reduced population size (10 individuals). The replicate inbred populations, as well as control populations reared at a population size of 500, were exposed to a benign developmental temperature and two developmental temperatures at the lower and upper margins of their viable range. Flies developed at the three temperatures were assessed for traits known to vary across temperatures, namely abdominal pigmentation, wing size, and wing shape. We found no significant difference in phenotypic plasticity in pigmentation or in wing size between inbred and control populations, but a significantly higher plasticity in wing shape across temperatures in inbred compared to control populations. Given that the norms of reaction for the noninbred control populations are adaptive, we conclude that a reduced ability to induce an adaptive phenotypic response to temperature changes is not a general consequence of inbreeding and thus not a general explanation of inbreeding–environment interaction effects on fitness components.
Local tributary widening for river rehabilitation
Authors: Leite Ribeiro M. , Blanckaert K. , Schleiss A. J.
Published: December 2014

The hydro‐morpho‐sedimentary processes in confluence hydrodynamic zones (CHZ) subject to a local widening of the tributary were investigated in a series of laboratory experiments that were representative of the 20 major confluences of the Upper Rhone River in Switzerland. Three discharge ratios (low, intermediate and high ratios of tributary to main channel discharge) were investigated for each of four tributary configurations (reference configuration with constant tributary width and three geometries of the local tributary widening). In all experiments, the local tributary widening caused substantial morphodynamic changes in the CHZ and moderate sediment redistribution in the post‐confluence channel. At the entrance of the local widening, the tributary main flow corridor gradually widened. Towards the confluence mouth, it narrowed and deflected in downstream direction because of a zone of flow stagnation at the confluence upstream junction corner. Dry zones and flow stagnation zones occurred in the widening zone outside the tributary main flow corridor. The results indicate that a local tributary widening considerably enhances the variability of bed substrate, velocity and depth in the CHZ, and offers an appropriate habitat for a wider range of biota than the homogeneous channelized reference configuration. None of the investigated experiments resulted in adverse impacts on water surface elevation and thereby flood safety. On the basis of the laboratory experiments, the appropriate geometry of the local tributary widening is discussed, and quantitative guidelines for practical application are proposed. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Der Einfluss eines Auflastfilters auf den Bruchvorgang beim hydraulischen Versagen nichtbindiger Böden
Authors: Schober Philipp , Boley Conrad
Published: December 2014

Numerische Untersuchungen zum hydraulischen Grundbruch an Baugrubenumschließungen mit geringer Einbindung der Baugrubenumschließung und baugrubenseitiger Sicherung durch einen Auflastfilter haben gezeigt, dass die herkömmlichen Nachweise nach DIN EN 1997‐1:2009‐09 (Eurocode 7) und DIN 1054:2010‐12 bzw. nach EAU für geringe Einbindetiefen und bei luftseitiger Sicherung durch einen Auflastfilter auf der unsicheren Seite liegen können. Dies kann auf die vereinfachte Form des Ersatzkörpers zurückgeführt werden, bei welcher die Strömungskräfte unterhalb des Wandfußes nicht berücksichtigt werden. Des Weiteren werden bei den herkömmlichen Nachweisen keine rückhaltenden Reibungskräfte im Boden oder im Auflastfilter angesetzt.

Anhand von eigenen theoretischen und experimentellen Untersuchungen zum Versagen vertikal durchströmter Bodensäulen in einem Zylinder sowie zum Versagen durch hydraulischen Grundbruch an einer Baugrubenumschließung konnte der Einfluss eines Auflastfilters auf die im Boden und im Auflastfilter wirkenden Reibungskräfte sowie auf die Bruchkörperform beim hydraulischen Grundbruch bestimmt werden.

Die gewonnenen Erkenntnisse aus den theoretischen und experimentellen Untersuchungen dienten als Grundlage zur Entwicklung eines modifiziertes Verfahrens zum Nachweis der Sicherheit gegen hydraulischen Grundbruch an Baugrubenumschließungen bei baugrubenseitiger Sicherung durch einen Auflastfilter in nichtbindigen Böden.

The influence of a surcharge filter on hydraulic failure. Numerical investigations of hydraulic heave failure at excavation walls with a small embedded depth and a surcharge filter on the excavation side of the wall have shown that the traditional proof of hydraulic heave according to DIN EN 1997‐1:2009‐09 (Eurocode 7) and DIN 1054:2010‐12 or to EAU can be unsafe. This is caused by the negligence of the flow forces below the pit wall. Moreover friction forces are not considered. By the means of proper theoretical and experimental analysis of the failure mode due to vertical flow through a soil column and due to hydraulic heaves, the influence of a surcharge filter due to the acting friction forces during hydraulic failure and the failure body during hydraulic heave could be determined.

Based on the results of the theoretical and experimental investigations a modified method to determine the hydraulic heave safety with a surcharge filter on the excavation bottom is presented.
Untersuchungen zum Setzungs‐ und Scherverhalten sowie zur Klassifizierung von feinkörnigen Böden mit organischen Bestandteilen
Authors: Herrmann Richard A. , Löwen Martin , Wilden Ulrich
Published: December 2014

In Böden enthaltene organische Bestandteile können das Verhalten eines Bodens maßgeblich beeinflussen. Abhängig vom Zersetzungsgrad der organischen Substanz und dem damit einhergehenden höheren Wassergehalt ist eine Verringerung der Festigkeit feststellbar. Zusätzlich tritt aber auch eine stabilisierende Wirkung des Bodens durch noch vorhandene Fasern auf. Eine, insbesondere für die Baupraxis, wichtige Eigenschaft von Organik ist der Aspekt der Abbaubarkeit. Der Abbauprozess bei der aeroben Zersetzung ist stark abhängig von dem vorhandenen Sauerstoffgehalt. Die Folge von intensiver Sauerstoffzufuhr ist eine ausgeprägte Volumenreduktion der organischen Masse in der jeweiligen Bodenzone bis hin zum fast vollständigen Massenverlust, was wiederum infolge des Massenverlusts mit Setzungen im gesamten Erdkörper einhergeht. Fällt die Sauerstoffzufuhr in der jeweiligen Bodenzone jedoch nur mäßig aus, können die Setzungen hier beispielsweise so gering ausfallen, dass sie nicht von gewöhnlichen Kriechsetzungen zu unterscheiden sind. Die Untersuchungen erfolgten mit der Zielsetzung, das Setzungsverhalten sowie die Beeinflussung der Scherfestigkeit, in Abhängigkeit variabler organischer Bestandteile, näher zu beschreiben. Zudem sollte eine genauere Klassifizierung von Böden mit organischen Bestandteilen ermöglicht werden.

Investigations on the Settlement Behavior, Shear Strength and Classification of Fine‐Grained Soils with Organic Components: Organic components, with a very large specific surface, are able to bind large quantities of water and can extensively affect bearing capacity. Even small portions of organics in soil can crucially change soil behavior with regard to water absorption. Particularly for construction practices, an important characteristic of organics is degradability. This process can take place under aerobic or anaerobic conditions. The breakdown process in aerobic decomposition is highly dependent upon available oxygen. The consequence of an intensive oxygen supply is a pronounced reduction in volume of the organic matter in each soil zone to almost zero, which in turn is associated with settlement in the entire soil mass. If oxygenation in respective soil zones is small, settlements may be so tiny as to be indistinguishable from ordinary creep. Investigations were performed to examine settlement behavior as well as influence on shear strength, and more closely describe the variable as a function of organic components. Furthermore, a more accurate classification of these soils should become possible.
New algorithms for iterative matrix‐free eigensolvers in quantum chemistry
Authors: Zuev Dmitry , Vecharynski Eugene , Yang Chao , Orms Natalie , Krylov Anna I.
Published: December 2014

New algorithms for iterative diagonalization procedures that solve for a small set of eigen‐states of a large matrix are described. The performance of the algorithms is illustrated by calculations of low and high‐lying ionized and electronically excited states using equation‐of‐motion coupled‐cluster methods with single and double substitutions (EOM‐IP‐CCSD and EOM‐EE‐CCSD). We present two algorithms suitable for calculating excited states that are close to a specified energy shift (interior eigenvalues). One solver is based on the Davidson algorithm, a diagonalization procedure commonly used in quantum‐chemical calculations. The second is a recently developed solver, called the “Generalized Preconditioned Locally Harmonic Residual (GPLHR) method.” We also present a modification of the Davidson procedure that allows one to solve for a specific transition. The details of the algorithms, their computational scaling, and memory requirements are described. The new algorithms are implemented within the EOM‐CC suite of methods in the Q‐Chem electronic structure program. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Acquired Equivalence in U.S. Veterans With Symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress: Reexperiencing Symptoms Are Associated With Greater Generalization
Authors: Kostek John A. , Beck Kevin D. , Gilbertson Mark W. , Orr Scott P. , Pang Kevin C. H. , Servatius Richard J. , Myers Catherine E.
Published: December 2014

The severity and number of reexperiencing symptoms (e.g., flashbacks) show considerable variability across individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). One interpretation of reexperiencing symptoms invokes generalization: Specifically, the traumatic memory may be stored in such a way that neutral stimuli that only vaguely resemble some feature of the traumatic event are sufficient to trigger the memory. If this is the case, then individuals with higher levels of reexperiencing symptoms might show greater generalization, even in contexts unrelated to trauma. In the current study, an acquired equivalence test was used to assess associative learning and generalization in 114 U.S. veterans who were also given a test of declarative memory. PTSD symptoms were rated by the veteran. After adjusting for demographic variables, psychoactive medication use, and initial learning, regression analyses showed that the number of PTSD reexperiencing symptoms significantly improved the model for generalization (β = −.23, R2 = .34) but not associative learning or declarative memory. The results support the idea that generalization is linked to reexperiencing symptoms, is not limited to learning about traumatic events, and can emerge even in a relatively innocuous computer‐based learning task.
Toward a New Family of Bifunctional Organoiron Dendrimers: Facile Synthesis, Redox, and Photophysical Fingerprints
Authors: Abd‐El‐Aziz Alaa S. , Agatemor Christian , Etkin Nola , Bissessur Rabin
Published: December 2014

Multifunctional macromolecules continue to attract attention. Here, three generations of a new family of bifunctional organoiron dendrimers are reported, which are synthesized from a redox‐active organoiron complex, η6‐dichlorobenzene‐η5‐cyclopentadienyl‐iron(II). The facile chemistry of the complex is exploited to functionalize the dendritic peripheral with photo­active β‐naphthol, yielding redox, photoactive dendrimers under mild conditions. To ascertain the redox and photophysical fingerprints of these dendrimers, cyclic voltammetric, and UV–vis and fluorescence spectroscopic measurements are used. The cyclic voltammetric measurements suggest non‐interacting redox‐active iron centers within the dendritic structure, and a negative dendritic effect on the half‐wave potential. The cathodic peak broadens with increasing dendrimer generation as the rate of electron transfer between the electrode and the iron centers decreases. The dendrimers exhibit the characteristic absorption and fluorescence fingerprint of β‐naphthol and a positive dendritic effect on the fluorescence intensities. A 24 h UV irradiation of acetonitrile/chloroform solution of the dendrimers yields their organic analogues with a concomitant enhancement of the absorption and fluorescence properties. The synthetic approach to these dendrimers offers an attractive route to other redox, multifunctional organometallic dendrimers.

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Pedicled superficial inferior epigastric artery perforator flap for salvage of failed metoidioplasty in female‐to‐male transsexuals
Authors: Schmidt Manfred , Grohmann Martin , Huemer Georg M.
Published: December 2014

Metoidioplasty represents a viable option for female‐to‐male transsexual patients seeking gender reassignment surgery. The aim of this procedure is to create a microphallus with lengthening of the urethra to the tip of the hypertrophied and released clitoris. However, fistula formation and urethral obstruction might occur in the long term and reconstruction represents a challenging problem in this setting. In this report, we present the tubed superficial inferior epigastric artery perforator island flap as an option for urethral reconstruction after failed metoidioplasty in a female‐to‐male transsexual patient. In a 26‐year‐old transsexual patient a combination of urethral fistula, urethral stenosis, and disintegrated distal neourethra had developed as a consequence of postoperative hematoma formation. Metoidioplasty was reconstructed by means of a tubed, pedicled superficial inferior epigastric artery perforator flap from the left lower abdomen. The long‐term result was stable with pleasing genital appearance, adequate functional outcome, and satisfactory donor site morbidity. In our opinion, this procedure may represent a viable alternative for urethral reconstruction in thin patients. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 35:403–406, 2015.
Combustion Properties of Amino‐Substituted Guanidinium 4,4′,5,5′‐Tetranitro‐2,2′‐biimidazolate(N4BIM) Salts
Authors: Tappan Bryce C. , Chavez David E.
Published: December 2014

This paper describes the combustion properties of the amino‐substituted guanidinium 4,4′,5,5′‐tetranitro‐2,2′‐biimidazolate (N4BIM) series, including the bis‐mono, di and triaminoguanidinium salts. These salts are of interest as propellant ingredient additives, and in particular, the bis‐triaminoguanidinium salt of N4BIM displays excellent burn rate and combustion behavior. Our combustion studies have shown that TAGN4‐BIM displays a fast burning rate and has the lowest pressure dependence exponent yet measured for a triaminoguanidinium salt.
End‐of‐life Decisions in Intensive Care Medicine–Shared Decision‐Making and Intensive Care Unit Length of Stay
Authors: Graw Jan A. , Spies Claudia D. , Kork Felix , Wernecke Klaus‐D. , Braun Jan‐Peter
Published: December 2014

Background

Most deaths on the intensive care unit (ICU) occur after end‐of‐life decisions (EOLD) have been made. During the decision‐making process, responsibility is often shared within the caregiver team and with the patients’ surrogates. The intensive care unit length of stay (ICU‐LOS) of surgical ICU‐patients depends on the primary illness as well as on the past medical history. Whether an increasing ICU‐LOS affects the process of EOLD making is unknown.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on all deceased patients (n = 303) in a 22‐bed surgical ICU of a German university medical center. Patient characteristics were compared between surgical patients with an ICU‐LOS up to 1 week and those with an ICU‐LOS of more than 7 days.

Results

Deceased patients with a long ICU‐LOS received more often an EOLD (83.2 % vs. 63.6 %, p = 0.001). Groups did not differ in urgency of admission. Attending intensivists participated in every EOLD. Participation of surgeons was significantly higher in patients with a short ICU‐LOS (24.1 %, p = 0.003), whereas nurses and the patients’ surrogates were involved more frequently in patients with a long ICU‐LOS (18.8 %, p = 0.021 and 18.9 %, p = 0.018, respectively).

Conclusion

EOLDs of surgical ICU‐patients are associated with the ICU‐LOS. Reversal of the primary illness leads the early ICU course, while in prolonged ICU‐LOS, the patients’ predicted will and the expected post‐ICU‐quality of life gain interest. Nurses and the patients’ surrogates participate more frequently in EOLDs with prolonged ICU‐LOS. To improve EOLD making on surgical ICUs, the ICU‐LOS associated participation of the different decision makers needs further prospective analysis.
Reconstruction of Scaphoid Non-Union and Total Scaphoid Avascular Necrosis in a Pediatric Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Ben-Amotz Oded , Ho Christine , Sammer Douglas M.
Published: December 2014

Background

The medial femoral condyle vascularized bone graft has grown in popularity for treating recalcitrant fracture non-unions and has become particularly useful in treating scaphoid non-union with avascular necrosis of the proximal pole. The medial femoral condyle is an excellent source of dense, well-vascularized bone and results in minimal donor site morbidity.

Methods

We describe an unusual case of chronic scaphoid non-union and total scaphoid avascular necrosis in a skeletally immature patient. Scaphoid reconstruction was performed with a vascularized medial femoral condyle graft, with successful graft incorporation, and restoration of pain-free wrist motion.

Conclusions

Technical considerations for harvest of the medial femoral condyle bone graft in the skeletally immature patient are discussed.
Präkonzeptionelle und vorgeburtliche klinische Genomsequenzierung
Authors: Dufke Andreas , Riess Olaf
Published: December 2014

Hintergrund

Innerhalb kürzester Zeit haben Hochdurchsatzanalysen von Exomen und Genomen Eingang in die postnatale klinisch-diagnostische Anwendung gefunden. Bei hoher technischer Analysezuverlässigkeit, sinkenden Kosten und kurzen Analysezeiten ist das Potenzial, welches sich für diese Anwendung auch für das präkonzeptionelle Screening und die Pränataldiagnostik ergeben könnte, offensichtlich. Insbesondere diese beiden Anwendungsgebiete erfordern eine sehr hohe Sicherheit in der klinischen Befundinterpretation. Eine weitere Herausforderung gegenüber der postnatalen diagnostischen Anwendung wird die Beurteilung des klinischen Manifestationsspektrums präklinisch oder pränatal erhobener genomischer Sequenzdaten sein.

Material und Methoden

Abgeleitet von den Erfahrungen mit NGS-Analysen im postnatalen diagnostischen Ansatz erfolgen eine Übertragung und ein Ausblick auf die Anwendung der Methode im Kontext der Familienplanung.

Diskussion und Ergebnisse

Der Beitrag beschränkt sich auf die technische und klinische Anwendbarkeit. Diskutiert werden der Einsatz von NGS als umfassende Screeningmethode von Populationen, Niedrigrisikokollektiven und die Beschränkung auf ausgewählte, dem individuellen Risikoprofil angepasste Analysen. Letztere könnten kurz- bis mittelfristig Eingang in die präkonzeptionelle und auch vorgeburtliche Diagnostik finden.
A classification of semilocal vortices in a Chern–Simons theory
Authors: Chern Jann-Long , Chen Zhi-You , Yang Sze-Guang
Published: December 2014

We consider a Chern–Simons theory of planar matter fields interacting with the Chern–Simons gauge field in a

\mathrm{SU}(N)_{\text{global}} \otimes \mathrm{U}(1)_{\text{local}}

invariant fashion. We classify the radially symmetric soliton solutions of the system in terms of the prescribed value of magnetic flux associated with this model. We also prove the uniqueness of the topological solution in a certain condition.

Nous étudions une théorie Chern–Simons de champs de matière plans interagissant avec le champ de jauge de Chern–Simons d'une manière invariante par le groupe

\mathrm{SU}(N)_{\text{global}} \otimes \mathrm{U}(1)_{\text{local}}

. Nous classons les solutions solitons radialement symétriques du système en fonction de la valeur prescrite d'un flux magnétique associé à ce modèle. Nous prouvons également l'unicité de la solution topologique sous une certaine condition.
The transcription factor Rap1p is required for tolerance to cell‐wall perturbing agents and for cell‐wall maintenance in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Azad Gajendra Kumar , Singh Vikash , Baranwal Shivani , Thakare Mayur Jankiram , Tomar Raghuvir S.
Published: December 2014

Yeast repressor activator protein (Rap1p) is involved in genomic stability and transcriptional regulation. We explored the function of Rap1p in yeast physiology using Rap1p truncation mutants. Our results revealed that the N‐terminal truncation of Rap1p (Rap1ΔN) leads to hypersensitivity towards elevated temperature and cell‐wall perturbing agents. Cell wall analysis showed an increase in the chitin and glucan content in Rap1ΔN cells as compared with wild type cells. Accordingly, mutant cells had a twofold thicker cell wall, as observed by electron microscopy. Furthermore, Rap1ΔN cells had increased levels of phosphorylated Slt2p, a MAP kinase of the cell wall integrity pathway. Mutant cells also had elevated levels of cell wall integrity response transcripts. Taken together, our findings suggest a connection between Rap1p and cell wall homeostasis.
Crystal structure of the catalase–peroxidase KatG W78F mutant from Synechococcus elongatus PCC7942 in complex with the antitubercular pro‐drug isoniazid
Authors: Kamachi Saori , Hirabayashi Kei , Tamoi Masahiro , Shigeoka Shigeru , Tada Toshiji , Wada Kei
Published: December 2014

Isoniazid (INH) is a pro‐drug that has been extensively used to treat tuberculosis. INH is activated by the heme enzyme catalase–peroxidase (KatG), but the mechanism of the activation is poorly understood, in part because the INH binding site has not been clearly established. Here, we observed that a single‐residue mutation of KatG from Synechococcus elongatus PCC7942 (SeKatG), W78F, enhances INH activation. The crystal structure of INH‐bound KatG‐W78F revealed that INH binds to the heme pocket. The results of a thermal‐shift assay implied that the flexibility of the SeKatG molecule is increased by the W78F mutation, allowing the INH molecule to easily invade the heme pocket through the access channel on the γ‐edge side of the heme.
In vitro ischemia decreases histone H4K16 acetylation in neural cells
Authors: Dmitriev Ruslan I. , Papkovsky Dmitri B.
Published: December 2014

Inhibitors of histone deacetylases are frequently used against ischemia‐induced injury, but the specific mechanisms of their action are poorly understood. Here, we report that following a 5–7‐h oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) acetylation of histone H4 at residue K16 (H4K16Ac) decreases by 40–80% in both PC12 cells and primary neurons. This effect can be reverted by treatment with trichostatin A, or by supplementation with acetyl‐CoA. A decrease in H4K16Ac levels can affect the expression of mitochondrial uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2), huntingtin‐interacting protein 1 (HIP1) and Notch‐pathway genes in a cell‐specific manner. Thus, H4K16 acetylation is important for responses to ischemia and cell energy stress, and depends on both cytosolic and mitochondrial acetyl‐CoA.
Phosphatidylcholine is transferred from chemically‐defined liposomes to chloroplasts through proteins of the chloroplast outer envelope membrane
Authors: Yin Congfei , Andersson Mats X. , Zhang Hongsheng , Aronsson Henrik
Published: December 2014

Chloroplasts maintain their lipid balance through a tight interplay with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The outer envelope membrane of chloroplasts contains a large proportion of the phospholipid phosphatidylcholine (PC), which is synthesized in the ER and also a possible precursor for thylakoid galactolipids. The mechanism for PC transport from the ER to chloroplasts is not known. Using isolated chloroplasts and liposomes containing radiolabeled PC we investigated non‐vesicular transport of PC in vitro. PC uptake in chloroplasts was time and temperature dependent, but nucleotide independent. Increased radius of liposomes stimulated PC uptake, and protease treatment of the chloroplasts impaired PC uptake. This implies that the chloroplast outer envelopes contains an exposed proteinaceous machinery for the uptake of PC from closely apposed membranes.
Identification of the glucosyltransferase that mediates direct flavone C‐glucosylation in Gentiana triflora
Authors: Sasaki Nobuhiro , Nishizaki Yuzo , Yamada Eri , Tatsuzawa Fumi , Nakatsuka Takashi , Takahashi Hideyuki , Nishihara Masahiro
Published: December 2014

The major flavonoids accumulated in leaves of Japanese gentian (Gentiana triflora) were determined as isoorientin (luteolin 6‐C‐glucoside) and isoorientin 4′‐glucoside. A cDNA (GtUF6CGT1) was isolated that encoded the UDP‐glucose‐dependent glucosyltransferase that is involved in C‐glycosylflavone biosynthesis. The recombinant GtUF6CGT1 protein could transfer a glucose group to the C6 position of a flavone skeleton through C‐linkage, using UDP‐glucose as the glucosyl donor. These C‐glycosylflavones also accumulated in petals. A good correlation was observed between GtUF6CGT1 expression and C‐glycosylflavone accumulation in leaves and petals. GtUF6CGT1 is the first reported C‐glucosyltransferase that mediates direct C‐glucosylation of the flavone skeleton.
The psychology of investment behavior: (De)biasing financial decision‐making one graph at a time
Authors: Duclos Rod
Published: December 2014

Consumers' welfare largely depends on the soundness of their financial decisions. To this effect, the present research examines how people process graphical displays of financial information (e.g., stock‐prices) to forecast future trends and invest accordingly. In essence, we ask whether and how visual biases in data interpretation impact financial decision‐making and risk‐taking. Five experiments find that the last trading day(s) of a stock bear a disproportionately (and unduly) high importance on investment behavior, a phenomenon we coin end‐anchoring. Specifically, a stock‐price closing upward (downward) fosters upward (downward) forecasts for tomorrow and, accordingly, more (less) investing in the present. Substantial investment asymmetries (up to 75%) emerge even as stock‐price distributions were generated randomly to simulate times when the market conjuncture is hesitant and no real upward or downward trend can be identified. Allying experimental manipulations to eye‐tracking technology, the present research begins to explore the underpinnings of end‐anchoring.
Experimental and theoretical study of dewetting corner flow
Authors: Kim Hyoungsoo , Poelma Christian , Ooms Gijs , Westerweel Jerry
Published: December 2014

We study a partial dewetting corner flow with a moving contact line at a finite Reynolds number, $0<\mathit{Re}<O(100)$. When the speed of the moving contact line increases, the receding contact line appears with a corner shape that is also observed in a gravity-driven liquid droplet on an incline and on a plate withdrawn from a bath. In the current problem, $\mathit{Re}\,{\it\epsilon}$ is larger than unity, where ${\it\epsilon}$ is the aspect ratio of the flow structure. Therefore, classical lubrication theory is no longer appropriate. We develop a modified three-dimensional lubrication model for the dewetting corner structure at $\mathit{Re}\,{\it\epsilon}>1$ by taking into account the internal flow pattern and by scaling arguments. The key requirement is that the streamlines in the corner are straight and (nearly) parallel. In this case, we can obtain a modified pressure consisting of the capillary pressure and the dynamic pressure. This model describes the three-dimensional dewetting corner structure at the rear of the moving droplets at $\mathit{Re}\,{\it\epsilon}>1$ and furthermore shows that the dynamic pressure effects become dominant at a small half-opening angle. Additionally, this model provides analytical results for the internal flow, which is a self-similar flow pattern. To validate the analytical results, we perform high-speed shadowgraphy and tomographic particle image velocimetry (PIV). We find a good agreement between the theoretical and the experimental results.
Ammonius of Alexandria, Eusebius of Caesarea and the Origins of Gospels Scholarship
Authors: Crawford Matthew R.
Published: December 2014

In the early third and fourth centuries respectively, Ammonius of Alexandria and Eusebius of Caesarea engaged in cutting-edge research on the relationships among the four canonical gospels. Indeed, these two figures stand at the head of the entire tradition of comparative literary analysis of the gospels. This article provides a more precise account of their contributions, as well as the relationship between the two figures. It argues that Ammonius, who was likely the teacher of Origen, composed the first gospel synopsis by placing similar passages in parallel columns. He gave this work the title Diatessaron-Gospel, referring thereby to the four columns in which his text was laid out. This pioneering piece of scholarship drew upon a long tradition of Alexandrian textual scholarship and likely served as the inspiration for Origen's more famous Hexapla. A little over a century later, Eusebius of Caesarea picked up where Ammonius left off and attempted to accomplish the same goal, albeit using a different and improved method. Using the textual parallels presented in the Diatessaron-Gospel as his ‘raw data’, Eusebius converted these textual units into numbers which he then collated in ten tables, or ‘canons’, standing at the beginning of a gospel book. The resulting cross-reference system, consisting of the Canon Tables as well as sectional enumeration throughout each gospel, allowed the user to find parallels between the gospels, but in such a way that the literary integrity of each of the four was preserved. Moreover, Eusebius also exploited the potential of his invention by including theologically suggestive cross-references, thereby subtly guiding the reader of the fourfold gospel to what might be called a canonical reading of the four.
Die Sendschreiben der Offenbarung des Johannes: Literarische Gestaltung – Buchkompositorische Funktion – Textpragmatik
Authors: Stowasser Martin
Published: December 2014

The Letters to the Seven Churches in the Book of Revelation follow a fixed sevenfold literary pattern. The single form elements are developed in view of the special situation of each of the seven churches but, at the same time, aim to create linkages with the main body of the book. In addition, referencing between form elements within one and the same letter often help to construe ambiguous metaphors. While the seven letters all together build a unit, this unit falls into two groups: the letter to Thyatira closes the first section, the letter to Laodicea closes the second one, with the letter to Sardis serving as a hinge between the two groups. The literary and the text-pragmatic purpose of the seven letters are well combined. In the second group, the linkages serving as a connection with the rest of the book make an increasing use of motives that describe the final victory at the end of the Book of Revelation. In this way, the author tries to focus the reader's attention on this eagerly awaited future.
A force-resisting balance control strategy for a walking biped robot under an unknown, continuous force
Authors: Kim Yeoun-Jae , Lee Joon-Yong , Lee Ju-Jang
Published: December 2014

In this paper, we propose and examine a force-resisting balance control strategy for a walking biped robot under the application of a sudden unknown, continuous force. We assume that the external force is acting on the pelvis of a walking biped robot and that the external force in the z-direction is negligible compared to the external forces in the x- and y-directions. The main control strategy involves moving the zero moment point (ZMP) of the walking robot to the center of the robot's sole resisting the externally applied force. This strategy is divided into three steps. The first step is to detect an abnormal situation in which an unknown continuous force is applied by examining the position of the ZMP. The second step is to move the ZMP of the robot to the center of the sole resisting the external force. The third step is to have the biped robot convert from single support phase (SSP) to double support phase (DSP) for an increased force-resisting capability. Computer simulations and experiments of the proposed methods are performed to benchmark the suggested control strategy.
The relationship between unhealthy snacking at school and academic outcomes: a population study in Chilean schoolchildren
Authors: Correa-Burrows Paulina , Burrows Raquel , Orellana Yasna , Ivanovic Daniza
Published: December 2014

Objective

We examined the association between unhealthy snacking at school and academic outcomes in students from the Santiago Metropolitan Region (Chile).

Design

Cross-sectional population-based study.

Setting

We measured the nutritional quality of snacks at school using an FFQ, and accounting for the amounts of saturated fat, fibre, sugar and salt in the foods, and academic outcomes using national standardized test scores in Language and Mathematics. Multivariate regression analyses modelled the relationship between unhealthy snacking at school (exposure), potential confounders and performance in Mathematics and Language (outcomes).

Subjects

Random sample of 1073 students (13·1 (sd 2·3) years old) attending public, partially subsidized and private schools.

Results

Fifty-six per cent of students ate items at snack time that were high in fat, sugar, salt and energy, and thus were considered to have unhealthy snaking. Thirty-six per cent and 8 % were considered to have poor-to-fair and healthy snacking, respectively. Unhealthy snacking significantly lowered the odds of good academic performance in both domains. Students having unhealthy snacks were 56 % less likely to pass in Language (fully adjusted OR=0·44; 95 % CI 0·23, 0·85) and 66 % less likely to pass in Mathematics (fully adjusted OR=0·34; 95 % CI 0·19, 0·64) compared with students having healthy snack items.

Conclusions

Schoolchildren eating unhealthy foods at snack time had worse academic performance in Language and Mathematics, as measured by a standardized test. Although association does not imply causation, these findings support the notion that academic and health-related behaviours are linked. More research is needed on the effect of school health programmes on educational outcomes.
Enhancing RF-to-DC conversion efficiency of wideband RF energy harvesters using multi-tone optimization technique
Authors: Kuhn Véronique , Seguin Fabrice , Lahuec Cyril , Person Christian
Published: December 2014

In this paper, a 1.8–2.6 GHz wideband rectenna is designed for radio frequency (RF) energy harvesting in the context of wireless sensor nodes (WSN). To assess the feasibility of ambient RF energy harvesting, the power density from RF base stations is analyzed through statistical measurements. Power density measurements are also performed close to Wi-Fi routers. Using these results, a methodology based on impedance matching network adaptation and maximum power transfer is proposed to design the wideband RF harvester. Using this method, three RF bands,i.e.GSM1800, UMTS and WLAN, are covered. The theoretical analysis is confirmed by simulations and measurements. From measurements results, the prototype RF-to-DC conversion efficiency is 15% at −20 dBm from 1.8 to 2.6 GHz. It is shown that with three RF sources in the chosen bands, each emitting at 10 dBm, the RF-to-DC conversion efficiency is 15% better compared to that measured with a single RF source. Finally, 7 µW is harvested at 50 m from a GSM1800 and UMTS base station. This value confirms the RF harvester workability to supply small sensors.
Evaluating the Implementation of ”Managing the Risk of Suicide: A Suicide Prevention Strategy for the ACT 2009–2014”
Authors: Sheehan Johann , Griffiths Kathleen , Rickwood Debra , Carron-Arthur Bradley
Published: December 2014

Background: Over the past two decades, governments have invested significantly in policies and strategies to prevent the tragic loss of life to suicide. However, there has been little focus on evaluating the implementation of such policies. Aims: This paper reports on the evaluation of the implementation of ”Managing the Risk of Suicide: A Suicide Prevention Strategy for the ACT 2009–2014,” the Australian Capital Territory’s (ACT) suicide prevention strategy. We sought to answer two questions: (1) Could agencies provide data reporting on their progress in implementing the activities for which they were responsible?; and (2) Could a judgment about implementation progress be made and, if so, to what extent was the activity implemented? Method: Individually tailored electronic surveys were sent to 18 ACT agencies annually over 4 years to measure their progress in implementing activities for which they had responsibility. Results: By year four, full data were provided for 64% of activities, maximal partial data for 9%, and minimal partial data for 27%. Forty-two per cent of activities were fully implemented, 20% were partially implemented, and 38% were not implemented or could not be measured. Conclusion: It is possible to measure implementation of suicide prevention strategies, but appropriate processes and dedicated resources must be in place at the outset.