bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spin-inversion and spin-selection in the reactions FeO+ + H2 and Fe+ + N2O
Authors: Ard Shaun G. , Johnson Ryan S. , Melko Joshua J. , Martinez Oscar , Shuman Nicholas S. , Ushakov Vladimir G. , Guo Hua , Troe Jürgen , Viggiano Albert A.
Published: June 2015

The reactions of FeO+ with H2 and of Fe+ with N2O were studied with respect to the production and reactivity of electronically excited 4Fe+ cations.
Ab initio modelling of the anomeric and exo anomeric effects in 2-methoxytetrahydropyran and 2-methoxythiane corrected for intramolecular BSSE
Authors: Sladek Vladimir , Holka Filip , Tvaroška Igor
Published: June 2015

Oxygen substitution in 2-methoxytetrahydropyran by sulphur in 2-methoxythiane approximately doubles the anomeric effect, which slows down enzymatic processing of 2-methoxythiane.
Molecular dynamics of NH3 induced by core-electron excitation
Authors: Walsh Noelle , Sankari Anna , Laksman Joakim , Andersson Tomas , Oghbaie Shabnam , Afaneh Feras , Månsson Erik P. , Gisselbrecht Mathieu , Sorensen Stacey L.
Published: June 2015

Complex nuclear dynamics in the N1s−14a11 state disentangled and understood by probing the 4a1 PES via photon energy detuning.
Styrene hydrogenation performance of Pt nanoparticles with controlled size prepared by atomic layer deposition
Authors: Li Jianwei , Zhang Bin , Chen Yao , Zhang Jiankang , Yang Huimin , Zhang Jiwen , Lu Xiaoli , Li Guicun , Qin Yong
Published: June 2015

Pt sub-nanoparticles supported on carbon nanotubes prepared by atomic layer deposition exhibit unusual catalytic performance for styrene hydrogenation.
The nitration pattern of energetic 3,6-diamino-1,2,4,5-tetrazine derivatives containing azole functional groups
Authors: Aizikovich A. , Shlomovich A. , Cohen A. , Gozin M.
Published: June 2015

A study of nitration patterns was conducted on 3,6-diamino-1,2,4,5-tetrazines derivatives, revealing the specificity of their nitration, as well as the stability of the formed nitramines towards hydrolysis.
Structural characterization and immunomodulatory effects of polysaccharides from Phellinus linteus and Phellinus igniarius on the IL-6/IL-10 cytokine balance of the mouse macrophage cell lines (RAW 264.7)
Authors: Suabjakyong Papawee , Nishimura Kazuhiro , Toida Toshihiko , Van Griensven Leo J. L. D.
Published: June 2015

Phellinus linteusandigniarius(L.) Quel. have been used in traditional Asian medicine for over two centuries against a variety of diseases.
The ex vivo antiplatelet activation potential of fruit phenolic metabolite hippuric acid
Authors: Santhakumar Abishek Bommannan , Stanley Roger , Singh Indu
Published: June 2015

Active metabolite of polyphenol intake, hippuric acid, reduces platelet activation-related conformational change and de-granulationex vivothereby alleviating thrombogenesis.
Quantum dot-layer-encapsulated and phenyl-functionalized silica spheres for highly luminous, colour rendering, and stable white light-emitting diodes
Authors: Yoo Hyein , Jang Ho Seong , Lee Kwangyeol , Woo Kyoungja
Published: June 2015

QD-layer-encapsulated and phenyl-functionalized silica spheres are presented for highly performing white LEDs, through enhanced photoluminescence and good adhesion to resin.
Photochemically grown silver nanodecahedra with precise tuning of plasmonic resonance
Authors: Ye Shuai , Song Jun , Tian Yuliang , Chen Linchun , Wang Dong , Niu Hanben , Qu Junle
Published: June 2015

The LSPR band of Ag nanoparticles with ∼1 nm tuning precision can be obtained by using an improved photochemical method.
Short and highly efficient synthesis of lipid peroxidation inhibitor pyrrolostatin and some analogues thereof
Authors: Schmidt Jens , Adrian Juliane , Christian B. W. Stark Christian B. W. Stark
Published: June 2015

A highly efficient and scalable synthesis of the potent lipid peroxidation inhibitor pyrrolostatin is presented together with strategies to modify the key structural subunits.
One-pot synthesis of spiropyrroloquinoline-isoindolinone and their aza-analogs via the Ugi-4CR/metal-free intramolecular bis-annulation process
Authors: Ghandi Mehdi , Zarezadeh Nahid , Abbasi Alireza
Published: June 2015

This presentation discloses a one-pot synthesis of a series of spiropyrroloquinoline isoindolinone and spiropyrroloquinoline aza-isoindolinone scaffolds.
A facile and regioselective synthesis of 1-tetralones via silver-catalyzed ring expansion
Authors: Yu Jiajia , Zhao Huijun , Liang Shuguang , Bao Xiaoguang , Zhu Chen
Published: June 2015

A regioselective synthesis of 1-tetralones via silver-catalyzed ring expansion is described.
Synthesis of water soluble polyrotaxanes by end-capping polypseudo-rotaxanes of γ-CDs with PHEMA-PPO-PEO-PPO-PHEMA using ATRP of MPC
Authors: Kong Tao , Lin Jing , Ye Lin , Zhang Ai-ying , Feng Zeng-guo
Published: June 2015

A twice ATRP protocol is developed for the preparation of water soluble single-chain stranded polyrotaxanes by end-capping polypseudorotaxanes formed from γ-CDs with PHEMA-PPO-PEO-PPO-PHEMA using PMPC as a bulky stopper.
A facile synthesis of thermo-responsive Au–polymer hybrid microgels through temperature-induced co-aggregation and self-crosslinking
Authors: Chen Xiang , Sun Jiao-Tong , Pan Cai-Yuan , Hong Chun-Yan
Published: June 2015

A facile temperature-induced co-aggregation and self-crosslinking (TICASC) method was developed for preparing thermo-responsive Au–polymer hybrid microgels.
Elastic models coupling the cellulose nanofibril to the macroscopic film level
Authors: Josefsson Gabriella , Chinga-Carrasco Gary , Gamstedt E. Kristofer
Published: June 2015

The elastic properties of cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) can be derived from the elastic properties of CNF films by using a suitable micromechanical model. This study investigates four such micromechanical models.
Lignin coating to quench photocatalytic activity of titanium dioxide nanoparticles for potential skin care applications
Authors: Morsella M. , Giammatteo M. , Arrizza L. , Tonucci L. , Bressan M. , d'Alessandro N.
Published: June 2015

Ultraviolet light can cause photodamage to the skin, such as sunburn and melanomas.
Production of cellulose nanocrystals via a scalable mechanical method
Authors: Mohd Amin Khairatun Najwa , Annamalai Pratheep Kumar , Morrow Isabel Catherine , Martin Darren
Published: June 2015

Conversion of cellulose microfibers into nanocrystals.
Fabrication of a polymer/aligned shish-kebab composite: microstructure and mechanical properties
Authors: Zheng Haili , Quan Yabo , Zheng Guoqiang , Dai Kun , Liu Chuntai , Shen Changyu
Published: June 2015

A shear-induced ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) shish-kebab mat (USKM) has been used as a filler to prepare a reinforced composite and the tensile strength and modulus of the composite are significantly improved.
Electrically conducting collagen and collagen–mineral composites for current stimulation
Authors: Kumar M. Ramesh , Freund Michael S.
Published: June 2015

Electrochemical aggregation of (a) collagen–PEDOT:PSS and (b) collagen–calcium phosphate–PEDOT:PSS.
Preparation of heterogeneous bipolar membranes and their performance evaluation for the regeneration of acid and alkali
Authors: Bhadja Vaibhavee , Sharma Saroj , Kulshrestha Vaibhav , Chatterjee Uma
Published: June 2015

Two types of bipolar membranes have been prepared for the hydrolysis of salt by bipolar electrodialysis process.
Selective removal of nitroaromatic compounds from wastewater in an integrated zero valent iron (ZVI) reduction and ZVI/H2O2 oxidation process
Authors: Liu Jianguo , Ou Changjin , Han Weiqing , Faheem Faheem , Shen Jinyou , Bi Huiping , Sun Xiuyun , Li Jiansheng , Wang Lianjun
Published: June 2015

In this study, an integrated system comprised of zero-valent iron (ZVI) reduction and ZVI-based Fenton oxidation was applied for the selective removal of nitroaromatic compounds from 2,4-dinitroanisole producing wastewater.
One-pot synthesis of Au/Ag bimetallic nanoparticles to modulate the emission of CdSe/CdS quantum dots
Authors: Jia Kun , Yuan Liting , Zhou Xuefei , Pan Lin , Wang Pan , Chen Wenjin , Liu Xiaobo
Published: June 2015

Fluorescent emission of CdSe/CdS nanocrystals in colloid solution can be effectively modulated by Au/Ag bimetallic nanoparticles.
One-pot synthesis of functionalized 4-hydroxy-3-thiomethylcoumarins: detection and discrimination of Co2+ and Ni2+ ions
Authors: Dar Ajaz A. , Hussain Sameer , Dutta Debasish , Iyer Parameswar K. , Khan Abu T.
Published: June 2015

A variety of 4-hydroxy-3-thiomethylcoumarin derivatives were synthesized via a one-pot three-component reaction catalysed by l-proline at room temperature. One of the derivative was used as fluorescence probe to monitor and distinguish Co2+ and Ni2+.
Dissipative particle dynamics simulations of the morphologies and dynamics of linear ABC triblock copolymers in solutions
Authors: Zhou Chun , Xia Honggang , Zhou Yang , Xue Xianggui , Luo Shikai
Published: June 2015

Due to the great potential in the field of multifunctional nanoreactors and carriers, several previous works have shown the interesting morphologies of multicompartment micelles from simple linear ABC triblock copolymers in solutions.
The role of hydrogen bonding in alginate/poly(acrylamide-co-dimethylacrylamide) and alginate/poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate-based tough hybrid hydrogels
Authors: Low Zhi Wei , Chee Pei Lin , Kai Dan , Loh Xian Jun
Published: June 2015

Hybrid hydrogels, with an elastic modulus and compressive toughness of 350 kPa and 70 J m−3, was synthesized and reported here.
A bonding evolution theory study of the mechanism of [3+2] cycloaddition reactions of nitrones with electron-deficient ethylenes
Authors: Ríos-Gutiérrez Mar , Pérez Patricia , Domingo Luis R.
Published: June 2015

BET study of the mechanism of zw-type [3+2] cycloaddition reactions of nitrones with electron-deficient ethylenes.
Phosphine/palladium-catalyzed one-pot synthesis of functionalized 6H-benzo[c]chromenes
Authors: Mo Hanjie , Pan Chengmin , Chen Dingben , Chen Di , Gao Jianrong , Yang Jianguo
Published: June 2015

Functionalized alkenyl 6H-benzo[c]chromenes are synthesized through a one-pot, phosphine/palladium sequential catalysis reaction with good stereoselectivity.
Poly(ionic liquid)/ionic liquid/graphene oxide composite quasi solid-state electrolytes for dye sensitized solar cells
Authors: Lin Bencai , Feng Tianying , Chu Fuqiang , Zhang Shuai , Yuan Ningyi , Qiao Gang , Ding Jianning
Published: June 2015

A composite gel electrolytes containing poly(1-butyl-3-vinylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide), 1-propyl-3-methylimidazolium iodide and graphene oxide are prepared for dye-sensitized solar cells, without any volatile organic solvent.
Photophysical and DFT studies on cycloplatinated complexes: modification in luminescence properties by expanding of π-conjugated systems
Authors: Jamshidi Mahboubeh , Nabavizadeh S. Masoud , Shahsavari Hamid R. , Rashidi Mehdi
Published: June 2015

The luminescent properties of cycloplatinated complexes containing aryl and SMe2 ligands, [Pt(p-MeC6H4)(ĈN)(SMe2)], (ĈN = benzo[h]quinolate (bzq), 1, or 2-phenylpyridinate (ppy), 2), were investigated in solution and solid state.
Transition-metal free synthesis of quinazolinones via tandem cyclization of 2-halobenzoic acids with amidines
Authors: Tiwari Abhishek R. , Bhanage Bhalchandra M.
Published: June 2015

A simple protocol for the synthesis of quinazoline-4(3H)-ones by tandem cyclization of 2-halobenzoic acids with amidines has been developed by using KOH as a base in DMSO at 120 °C.
Hierarchical 3D ZnO nanowire structures via fast anodization of zinc
Authors: Miles D. O. , Cameron P. J. , Mattia D.
Published: June 2015

The rapid and controlled synthesis of three-dimensional hierarchical ZnO nanowires using electrochemical anodization is reported. The stages of nanowire growth are identified and growth rates are optimised to in excess of 3 μm min−1 at ambient temperatures. The structures produced combine high surface areas with the benefits of one-dimensional nanowires and have potential application in photocatalysis, photovoltaics and sensing.
A general strategy of decorating 3D carbon nanofiber aerogels derived from bacterial cellulose with nano-Fe3O4for high-performance flexible and binder-free lithium-ion battery anodes
Authors: Wan Yizao , Yang Zhiwei , Xiong Guangyao , Luo Honglin
Published: June 2015

A novel flexible nano-Fe3O4-decorated three-dimensional carbon nanofiber aerogel derived from bacterial cellulose was fabricatedviaa hydrothermal approachfollowed by carbonization.
Emulsion soft templating of carbide-derived carbon nanospheres with controllable porosity for capacitive electrochemical energy storage
Authors: Oschatz M. , Zeiger M. , Jäckel N. , Strubel P. , Borchardt L. , Reinhold R. , Nickel W. , Eckert J. , Presser V. , Kaskel S.
Published: June 2015

A new approach to produce carbide-derived carbon nanospheres of 20–200 nm diameter based on a novel soft-templating technique is presented.
Treatment for Alexia With Agraphia Following Left Ventral Occipito-Temporal Damage: Strengthening Orthographic Representations Common to Reading and Spelling
Authors: Kim Esther S. , Rising Kindle , Rapcsak Steven Z. , Beeson Pélagie M.
Published: June 2015

Purpose

Damage to left ventral occipito-temporal cortex can give rise to written language impairment characterized by pure alexia/letter-by-letter (LBL) reading, as well as surface alexia and agraphia. The purpose of this study was to examine the therapeutic effects of a combined treatment approach to address concurrent LBL reading with surface alexia/agraphia.

Method

Simultaneous treatment to address slow reading and errorful spelling was administered to 3 individuals with reading and spelling impairments after left ventral occipito-temporal damage due to posterior cerebral artery stroke. Single-word reading/spelling accuracy, reading latencies, and text reading were monitored as outcome measures for the combined effects of multiple oral re-reading treatment and interactive spelling treatment.

Results

After treatment, participants demonstrated faster and more accurate single-word reading and improved text-reading rates. Spelling accuracy also improved, particularly for untrained irregular words, demonstrating generalization of the trained interactive spelling strategy.

Conclusion

This case series characterizes concomitant LBL with surface alexia/agraphia and demonstrates a successful treatment approach to address both the reading and spelling impairment.
The Effectiveness of Two Grammar Treatment Procedures for Children With SLI: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Smith-Lock Karen M. , Leitão Suze , Prior Polly , Nickels Lyndsey
Published: June 2015

Purpose

This study compared the effectiveness of two grammar treatment procedures for children with specific language impairment.

Method

A double-blind superiority trial with cluster randomization was used to compare a cueing procedure, designed to elicit a correct production following an initial error, to a recasting procedure, which required no further production. Thirty-one 5-year-old children with specific language impairment participated in 8 small group, classroom-based treatment sessions. Fourteen children received the cueing approach and 17 received the recasting approach.

Results

The cueing group made significantly more progress over the 8-week treatment period than the recasting group. There was a medium–large treatment effect in the cueing group and a negligible effect size in the recasting group. The groups did not differ in maintenance of treatment effects 8 weeks after treatment. In single-subject analyses, 50% of children in the cueing group and 12% in the recasting group showed a significant treatment effect. Half of these children maintained the treatment effect 8 weeks later.

Conclusion

Treatment that used a structured cueing hierarchy designed to elicit a correct production following a child's error resulted in significantly greater improvement in expressive grammar than treatment that provided a recast following an error.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.6170285
Multicarrier modulation with variable peak‐to‐average power ratio using partial fast Fourier transform
Authors: Nayar Himanshu , Ribeiro Vinay J. , Mallik Ranjan K.
Published: June 2015

The authors present a novel frequency division multiplexing scheme which can generate a signal whose worst‐case peak‐to‐average power ratio (PAPR) is tunable by an input parameter; they call this scheme tunable PAPR frequency division multiplexing (TP‐FDM). Special cases of TP‐FDM are orthogonal FDM (OFDM) and single carrier (SC) modulation. Unlike several other proposed PAPR reduction schemes, TP‐FDM requires no per‐symbol side information to be sent from transmitter to receiver. TP‐FDM has overall computational requirements almost the same as OFDM. The author's study of the symbol error rate (SER) of TP‐FDM in a Rayleigh fading channel shows that higher PAPR signals give a better SER performance. Thus, instead of choosing either of the extremes, OFDM and SC modulation, as is currently done in some cellular systems, one can tune the PAPR with TP‐FDM to the maximum suitable for the transmitter and receiver device electronics, so as to minimise SER. They compare and contrast TP‐FDM with transform precoded OFDM methods in terms of SER and PAPR. They also extend TP‐FDM to a multi‐user scenario.
Voltage security in AC microgrids: a power flow‐based approach considering droop‐controlled inverters
Authors: Zambroni de Souza Antonio Carlos , Santos Marcos , Castilla Miguel , Miret Jaume , García de Vicuña Luis , Marujo Diogo
Published: June 2015

This study deals with the problem of voltage security in microgrids. In general, voltage security is an issue for power systems, where the lack of reactive power is a concern. For microgrids a complexity is imposed, since frequency and voltage level deviations may take place by the operation of droop‐controlled inverters. This study incorporates the load margin calculation into a microgrid structure. For this purpose, a special power flow program is developed in order to consider the effects of the droop‐controlled inverters. Simulation results are obtained with the help of an islanded distribution system with only generators coupled by droop‐controlled inverters, so the proposed methodology may be tested and discussed.
Improvement in Health State Utility after Sacroiliac Joint Fusion: Comparison to Normal Populations
Authors: Cher Daniel J. , Polly David W.
Published: June 2015

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Objective

The sacroiliac joint (SIJ) is an important cause of lower back pain. The degree to which minimally invasive surgical fusion of the SIJ improves health state utility has not been previously documented.

Methods

Health state utility values were calculated using the EuroQOL-5D (EQ-5D) and Short Form-36 (SF-36) at baseline and 6 and 12 months after SIJ fusion surgery in subjects participating in a prospective, multicenter clinical trial ( n = 172). Values were compared with individuals who participated in a nationally representative cross-sectional survey (National Health Measurement Study [NHMS], n = 3,844). Health utility values in the SIJ cohort were compared with those of the NMHS participants using both weighted linear regression and calculation of “health quantile” (i.e., percentile of health normalized to the NHMS cohort adjusted for age and gender).

Results

Baseline health state utility was significantly depressed in SIJ patients compared with normal subjects (SF-6D 0.509 versus 0.789, SF-36 physical component summary 31.7 versus 49.2, SF-36 mental component summary 8.5 versus 53.8, EQ-5D 0.433 versus 0.868; all p < 0.0001 after adjustment for age and gender). In the SIJ cohort, all the measures improved by 6 months postoperatively, and improvements were sustained at 12 months. Baseline health quantile was low (fifth percentile) in the SIJ cohort and improved significantly at follow-up.

Conclusions

Quality of life is markedly impaired in patients with SIJ pain compared with age- and gender-matched cohorts. SIJ fusion in this cohort resulted in a substantial improvement in health state utility, bringing the population back toward the expected levels of overall health. The quantile approach helps to explain the degree to which health is improved compared with age- and gender-matched cohorts.
Tunable parametric amplifier for mid-IR application based on highly nonlinear chalcogenide material
Authors: Maji Partha Sona , Roy Chaudhuri Partha
Published: June 2015

A novel dispersion controlling technique towards attaining tunable parametric amplification based on highly nonlinear photonic crystal fibers has been investigated. Selective infiltration of the liquid into the air-holes leads to alter the zero dispersion wavelength towards a broader parametric gain in the mid-IR spectrum by only changing the temperature of the system externally. The dispersion profile specially the zero dispersion wavelengths can be well tuned around the pumping wavelength, thereby generating several hundred nanometer parametric bandwidth in near-IR to mid-IR region. The tunability of the photonic crystal fibers (PCFs) can also be useful for generating new frequencies in both the red- and blue-shifted regions far from the pumping wavelength. Our numerical calculations reveal that we could achieve very wide band fiber optic parametric amplifier both in the communication wavelength and in the IR region. Also two different types of PCFs can be used to achieve same broadband wavelength spectra however with a tradeoff between the fiber lengths and pump power.
In-situ investigation of graphene oxide under UV irradiation: Evolution of work function
Authors: Li Jun , Qi Xiang , Hao Guolin , Ren Long , Zhong Jianxin
Published: June 2015

Using in-situ Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) to measure surface potential, we investigated the time-dependent work function evolution of solution-processed graphene oxide (GO) under ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. We found that the work function of GO exposed in UV shows a notable decrease with increasing irradiation time, which is proposed to be attributed to the gradual disappearance of oxygen-containing functional groups in GO during the UV-induced reduction reaction process. Fourier transform infrared spectrum and Raman spectrum were used to confirm the reduction of GO under UV irradiation. Our study would give an insight into understanding the transformation of GO’s electronic structures during the reduction process.
Global research on ultramafic (serpentine) ecosystems (8th International Conference on Serpentine Ecology in Sabah, Malaysia)
Authors: van der Ent Antony , Rajakaruna Nishanta , Boyd Robert , Echevarria Guillaume , Repin Rimi , Williams Dick
Published: June 2015

Since 1991, researchers from approximately 45 nations have participated in eight International Conferences on Serpentine Ecology (ICSE). The ICSE conferences are coordinated by the International Serpentine Ecology Society (ISES), a formal research society whose members study geological, pedological, biological and applied aspects of ultramafic ecosystems worldwide. These conferences have provided an international forum to discuss and synthesise multidisciplinary research, and have provided opportunities for scientists in distinct fields and from different regions of the world to conduct collaborative and interdisciplinary research. The 8th ICSE was hosted by Sabah Parks in Malaysia, on the island of Borneo, and attracted the largest delegation to date, 174 participants from 31 countries. This was the first time an ICSE was held in Asia, the region that hosts some of the world’s most biodiverse ultramafic ecosystems. The presentations provided a cross-section of the current status of research in all aspects of serpentine-biota relations. In this Special Issue of Australian Journal of Botany, which encompasses two double issues (1–2 and 3–4), we have compiled a selection of papers from among the oral and poster presentations to provide insights into recent advances in geoecological and applied studies of serpentine habitats worldwide.
What drives fruit growth?
Authors: Okello Robert C. O. , Heuvelink Ep , de Visser Pieter H. B. , Struik Paul C. , Marcelis Leo F. M.
Published: June 2015

Cell division, endoreduplication (an increase in nuclear DNA content without cell division) and cell expansion are important processes for growth. It is debatable whether organ growth is driven by all three cellular processes. Alternatively, all could be part of a dominant extracellular growth regulatory mechanism. Cell level processes have been studied extensively and a positive correlation between cell number and fruit size is commonly reported, although few positive correlations between cell size or ploidy level and fruit size have been found. Here, we discuss cell-level growth dynamics in fruits and ask what drives fruit growth and during which development stages. We argue that (1) the widely accepted positive correlation between cell number and fruit size does not imply a causal relationship; (2) fruit growth is regulated by both cell autonomous and noncell autonomous mechanisms as well as a global coordinator, the target of rapamycin; and (3) increases in fruit size follow the neocellular theory of growth.
Men's Sheds function and philosophy: towards a framework for future research and men's health promotion
Authors: Wilson Nathan J. , Cordier Reinie , Doma Kenji , Misan Gary , Vaz Sharmila
Published: June 2015

Issue addressed

The Men's Shed movement supports a range of men's health promotion initiatives. This paper examines whether a Men's Shed typology could inform future research and enable more efficient and targeted health promotion activities through Men's Sheds.

Methods

The International Men's Shed Survey consisted of a cross‐sectional exploration of sheds, their members, and health and social activities. Survey data about shed ‘function’ and ‘philosophy’ were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results

A framework of Men's Sheds based on function and philosophy demonstrated that most sheds serve a primary utility function, a secondary social function, but most importantly a primary social opportunity philosophy. Sheds with a primary health philosophy participated in fewer health promotion activities when compared with sheds without a primary health philosophy.

Conclusions

In addition to the uniform health promotion resources distributed by the Men's Shed associations, specific health promotion activities, such as prostate education, are being initiated from an individual shed level. This framework can potentially be used to enable future research and health promotion activities to be more efficiently and effectively targeted.
Effects of brain-derived neurotrophic factor on oocyte maturation and embryonic development in a rat model of polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Zhang Qiaoli , Liu Dong , Zhang Meiling , Li Na , Lu Shulan , Du Yanzhi , Chen Zi-Jiang
Published: June 2015

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is expressed extensively in the mammalian female reproductive system and has been implicated in the development of follicles and oocytes. However, BDNF expression patterns in the ovary and its effects on oocyte maturation and embryonic development in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have not been established. In the present study, we established a PCOS model by treating the rats with insulin and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Rats treated with insulin + hCG had heavier bodyweight and ovarian weight, higher circulating concentrations of luteinising hormone (LH) and testosterone (T), and greater homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) values compared with control rats (P < 0.05). BDNF and its receptor tyrosine kinase type B (TrkB) were located in cyst walls, granulosa and theca cells, and BDNF protein levels were lower in ovaries of insulin + hCG-treated rats (P < 0.05). The rate of oocyte maturation and formation of blastocysts and morulae was greatest in rats treated with 5 ng mL–1 BDNF (P < 0.05) compared to other BDNF groups (1 and 10 ng mL–1) and the control. The control rats were also PCOS rats and were treated without BDNF. There were no significant differences in the rate of germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) and fertilisation among the various treatment groups (1, 5 and 10 ng mL–1) and the control group (P > 0.05). The results indicate that in vitro treatment with an appropriate concentration of BDNF not only promotes oocyte maturation, but also rescues embryonic development in rats treated with insulin + hCG as a model of PCOS.
Sulindac metabolites decrease cerebrovascular malformations in
CCM3
-knockout mice
Authors: Bravi Luca , Rudini Noemi , Cuttano Roberto , Giampietro Costanza , Maddaluno Luigi , Ferrarini Luca , Adams Ralf H. , Corada Monica , Boulday Gwenola , Tournier-Lasserve Elizabeth , Dejana Elisabetta , Lampugnani Maria Grazia
Published: June 2015

Significance

Cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM) disease can lead to brain hemorrhages, seizures, and paralysis. No pharmacological therapy is currently available. Here we define, to our knowledge for the first time in vivo, the sequence of molecular events that lead to CCM vascular cavernomas. We found that β-catenin activation is the first trigger followed by TGF-β signaling, which, in turn, mediates the progression of the disease. We also show that β-catenin signaling is cell-autonomous and independent of Wnt-receptor activation. Most importantly, these studies prompted us to identify pharmacological agents that, by targeting the altered β-catenin signaling, limit the formation of brain vascular cavernomas in mice with
CCM3
ablation in endothelial cells. These drugs are currently used in clinics for different pathologies and may be repurposed for CCM therapy.
Biologically recycled continental iron is a major component in banded iron formations
Authors: Li Weiqiang , Beard Brian L. , Johnson Clark M.
Published: June 2015

Significance

Combined Fe- and Nd-isotope signatures suggest that banded iron formations (BIFs) contain a major component of continentally derived iron that was mobilized by microbial iron reduction followed by transport through an iron shuttle to the site of BIF formation in deep basin environments. This Fe source is in addition to the widely accepted submarine hydrothermal source of Fe in BIFs, and the two sources of Fe may be comparable in importance, although their proportions change over time dependent on basin-scale circulation.
EPS Mid-Career Award 2014
Authors: Eimer Martin
Published: June 2015

In visual search, observers try to find known target objects among distractors in visual scenes where the location of the targets is uncertain. This review article discusses the attentional processes that are active during search and their neural basis. Four successive phases of visual search are described. During the initial preparatory phase, a representation of the current search goal is activated. Once visual input has arrived, information about the presence of target-matching features is accumulated in parallel across the visual field (guidance). This information is then used to allocate spatial attention to particular objects (selection), before representations of selected objects are activated in visual working memory (recognition). These four phases of attentional control in visual search are characterized both at the cognitive level and at the neural implementation level. It will become clear that search is a continuous process that unfolds in real time. Selective attention in visual search is described as the gradual emergence of spatially specific and temporally sustained biases for representations of task-relevant visual objects in cortical maps.
The disease-linked Glu-26-Lys mutant version of Coronin 1A exhibits pleiotropic and pathway-specific signaling defects
Authors: Ojeda Virginia , Robles-Valero Javier , Barreira María , Bustelo Xosé R.
Published: June 2015

Coronin 1A (Coro1A) is involved in cytoskeletal and signaling events, including the regulation of Rac1 GTPase– and myosin II–dependent pathways. Mutations that generate truncated or unstable Coro1A proteins cause immunodeficiencies in both humans and rodents. However, in the case of the peripheral T-cell–deficient ( Ptcd) mouse strain, the immunodeficiency is caused by a Glu-26-Lys mutation that targets a surface-exposed residue unlikely to affect the intramolecular architecture and stability of the protein. Here we report that this mutation induces pleiotropic effects in Coro1A protein, including the exacerbation of Coro1A-dependent actin-binding and -bundling activities; the formation of large meshworks of Coro1AE26K-decorated filaments endowed with unusual organizational, functional, and staining properties; and the elimination of Coro1A functions associated with both Rac1 and myosin II signaling. By contrast, it does not affect the ability of Coro1A to stimulate the nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NF-AT). Coro1AE26Kis not a dominant-negative mutant, indicating that its pathological effects are derived from the inability to rescue the complete loss of the wild-type counterpart in cells. These results indicate that Coro1AE26Kbehaves as either a recessive gain-of-function or loss-of-function mutant protein, depending on signaling context and presence of the wild-type counterpart in cells.
Infectious Disease: A Very Short Introduction
Authors: Wayne Marta , Bolker Benjamin
Published: June 2015

Infectious disease is a moving target: new diseases emerge every year, old diseases evolve into new forms, and ecological and socioeconomic upheavals change the transmission pathways by which diseases spread. By taking an approach focused on the general evolutionary and ecological dynamics of disease, Infectious Disease: A Very Short Introduction considers where particular diseases come from, how they are transmitted from one person to another, why some individuals are more susceptible than others, and what strategies can be used to combat these diseases. It explains the general principles of infection, the management of outbreaks, and the evolutionary and ecological approaches that are now central to much research about infectious disease.
Potential Influence of Staphylococcus aureus Clonal Complex 30 Genotype and Transcriptome on Hematogenous Infections
Authors: Sharma-Kuinkel Batu K. , Mongodin Emmanuel F. , Myers Jason R. , Vore Kelly L. , Canfield Greg S. , Fraser Claire M. , Rude Thomas H. , Fowler Vance G. , Gill Steven R.
Published: June 2015

Background.  The contemporary Staphylococcus aureus clonal complex (CC) 30 lineage is associated with complicated infections, including endocarditis and osteomyelitis. This lineage diverged from the phage-type 80/81 S aureus clone responsible for a major bacterial epidemic of the 20th century. The genome and transcriptome features that contribute to complicated infections of the CC30 lineage are unknown.

Methods.  Twenty-nine clinical methicillin-resistant S aureus (MRSA) strains (8 from CC30 and 21 from other major CCs were evaluated for virulence using murine and Galleria mellonella sepsis models. Genomic features of CC30 were ide.jpegied by comparative genome sequencing and RNA-Seq transcriptome analysis of the 29 strains and 31 previously sequenced S aureus genomes.

Results.  The CC30 isolates displayed lower virulence in the sepsis models compared with other CCs [P < .0001]. Comparisons of orthologous proteins and transcriptome analysis ide.jpegied genes (eg, nitric oxide reductase) and changes in metabolic pathways (eg, pyrimidine metabolism) that contribute to the distinct CC30 phenotype. Previously reported nonsynonymous single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were found in accessory gene regulator C (agrC) and α-hemolysin (hla), molecules important for virulence. Additional nonsynonymous SNPs conserved across clinical CC30 isolates when compared with the first sequenced contemporary CC30 clone, MRSA-16, were ide.jpegied in multiple genes, suggesting continuing evolutionary divergence in this lineage.

Conclusions.  Genomic and transcriptional analyses suggest that the CC30 lineage has acquired metabolic features that contribute to persistent and complicated infections. Absence of sepsis-induced mortality in animal models may be due in part to its unique genomic profile and suggests that specific genotypes of S aureus elicit distinct types of infection types.
Percutaneous Removal of Filter-Induced Iliocaval Thrombus Using the AngioVac Device
Authors: Worku Berhane , Blake Kyle , Gulkarov Iosif , Sista Akhilesh , Salemi Arash
Published: June 2015

Most percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy devices entail thrombolysis and/or thrombus fragmentation followed by subsequent aspiration, with the associated risks of bleeding and embolization. We describe the use of the AngioVac system (Angiodynamics, Latham, NY USA) for extraction of extensive iliocaval thrombus associated with an inferior vena cava filter followed by percutaneous inferior vena cava filter extraction in a patient with an absolute contraindication to thrombolysis. The AngioVac may be considered in this scenario as it does not require thrombolytics and can remove whole thrombus, thus overcoming some of the limitations of percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy devices in the setting of subacute and early chronic thrombus.
Illness Perceptions and Health Behaviors of Black Women
Authors: Stallings Devita T.
Published: June 2015

The Common Sense Model of Illness Representations proposes that representations or perceptions of illness drive health behaviors. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationships between hypertension representations, exercise, and dietary behaviors in hypertensive black women (N = 204, aged 18–65 years). Regression results revealed that perceiving hypertension as chronic and perceiving it a result of environmental causes were inversely related to moderate-intensity physical activity (β = −.15 [P = .05] and β = −.25 [P = .05], respectively). Having more emotional responses to hypertension (β = .23, P = .05) was related to moderate-intensity physical activity and more fruit and vegetable consumption (β = .28, P = .05). These findings suggest that hypertension representations can interfere with recommended lifestyle changes among black women. Assessing hypertension representations and implementing measures to clarify misperceptions of hypertension among black women may lead to better blood pressure control and health outcomes.
Patients’ Decision Making About Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation for Severe Aortic Stenosis
Authors: Olsson Karin , Näslund Ulf , Nilsson Johan , Hörnsten Åsa
Published: June 2015

Background:

Aortic stenosis is the most common valve disease in Western countries, and its prevalence is increasing because of the aging population. Some patients, denied surgery because of high risk, can be offered transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). These patients are old and have comorbidities, and it is not always easy for them to make the decision about accepting TAVI.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to describe the decision-making process about undergoing TAVI treatment among people with severe aortic stenosis who are denied surgery.

Methods:

The Swedish participants (n = 24) with a mean age of 80 years who had been offered TAVI all agreed to participate in a presurgical interview. The interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

Results:

Three patterns in the decision-making process about TAVI treatment—ambivalent, obedient, and reconciled—were identified. The ambivalent patient is unsure of the value of treatment and aware of the risks; the obedient patient is unsure of the value of one’s own decision and wants to leave the decision to others; the reconciled patient has reached a point where there is no choice anymore and is always sure that the decision to undergo TAVI is right.

Conclusions:

People with aortic stenosis who are offered TAVI need to discuss the risks and benefits in order to participate in decision making about the treatment. They have different patterns in decision making and would benefit from healthcare professionals being observant of them to support them in this process in a manner consistent with their values.
Presenting Pattern of Pediatric Celiac Disease
Authors: Khatib Maan , Baker Robert D. , Ly Erin K. , Kozielski Rafal , Baker Susan S.
Published: June 2015

Objectives:

Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune disease that can be complicated by impaired nutrition and growth. With the development of sensitive serologic tests, safe endoscopy, and efforts to educate primary care physicians, more children are diagnosed as having CD. The aim of this study is to evaluate the pattern of the presentation of pediatric CD in western New York.

Methods:

Chart review of pediatric patients with CD was undertaken. Patients’ demographics, presenting features, disaccharidase assay (DA), celiac serology, and Marsh score were reviewed from patients seen at the Digestive Diseases and Nutrition Center, State University of New York at Buffalo from January 2003 through March 2013.

Results:

A total of 165 patients with CD were evaluated. Mean age was 10.7 ± 4.3 years, 76 male patients. The presenting features were abdominal pain (n = 87, 52.7%), constipation (n = 65, 38.9%), diarrhea (n = 52, 31.1%), family history of first‐degree relative (n = 47, 28.1%), diabetes mellitus type 1 (n = 37, 22.2%), failure to thrive (n = 36, 21.8%), reflux (n = 25, 15.1%), vomiting (n = 24, 14.5%), fatigue (n = 15, 9%), short stature (n = 9, 5.4%), thyroid disease (n = 9, 5.4%), Down syndrome (n = 8, 4.8%). We found no correlation between Marsh score and serum tissue transglutaminase (tTG) immunoglobulin (Ig) A level at diagnosis and no correlation between DA and serum tTG IgA level, presenting feature and tTG IgA level, presenting feature and Marsh score, tTG IgA and DA, or between the age and the presenting feature.

Conclusions:

Children newly diagnosed as having CD in western New York presented most frequently with abdominal pain and constipation and were older at the time of diagnosis than those described in the classical presentation of CD. We speculate that our patients may have a different long‐term natural history and risk factors than originally described for patients with CD.
Celeribacter naphthalenivorans sp. nov., a naphthalene-degrading bacterium from tidal flat sediment
Authors: Taek Oh Young , Avedoza Catherine , Lee Sang-Suk , Jeong Sang Eun , Jia Baolei , Jeon Che Ok
Published: June 2015

A Gram-stain-negative, aerobic and moderately halophilic bacterium, designated strain EMB201T, was isolated from tidal flat sediment of the South Sea in Korea. Cells were motile rods with a single polar flagellum and had catalase- and oxidase-positive activities. Growth of strain EMB201T was observed at 15–37 °C (optimum, 30 °C), at pH 5.0–9.5 (optimum, pH 7.0–7.5) and in the presence of 1–7 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 2–3 %). Strain EMB201T contained ubiquinone-10 as the sole isoprenoid quinone and summed feature 8 (comprising C18 : 1ω7c/ω6c), C18 : 0ω7c 11-methyl and C10 : 0 3-OH as the major fatty acids. Phosphatidylglycerol and an unidentified amino lipid were identified as the major polar lipids and an unidentified phospholipid and three unidentified lipids were detected as minor components. The G+C content of the genomic DNA was approximately 58.4 mol%. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strain EMB201T formed a phylogenetic lineage with members of the genus Celeribacter. Strain EMB201T was related most closely to Celeribacter halophilus ZXM137T with a 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity of 98.3 %, and the level of DNA–DNA relatedness between the two strains was 17.0 ± 2.0 %. The combined chemotaxonomic and molecular properties suggest that strain EMB201T represents a novel species of the genus Celeribacter, for which the name Celeribacter naphthalenivorans sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is EMB201T ( = KACC 18393T = JCM 30679T).
Streptomyces mangrovi sp. nov., an actinomycete from mangrove soil
Authors: Wang Ying , Huang Huiqin , Yuan Weidao , Wei Hua , Chen Yuqing , Zhu Jun , Liu Min , Zou Xiaoxiao , Bao Shixiang
Published: June 2015

A novel aerobic actinomycete, designated HA11110T, was isolated from a mangrove soil sample collected in Haikou, China. It formed white aerial mycelium and pale yellow substrate mycelium on Gause's synthetic agar no. 1. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that cells of HA11110T produced straight to spiral spore chains with spiny spores. Chemotaxonomic tests showed that the cell wall contained ll-diaminopimelic acid and the major fatty acids were iso-C16 : 0, anteiso-C15 : 0 and iso-C14 : 0.16S rRNA gene sequence similarity showed that strain HA11110T belonged to the genus Streptomyces, most closely related to Streptomyces fenghuangensis GIMN4.003T (99.1 %), Streptomyces nanhaiensis SCSIO 01248T (98.8 %) and Streptomyces radiopugnans R97T (98.8 %). However, DNA–DNA hybridization studies of strain HA11110T with these three closest relatives showed relatedness values of 58.4, 49.7 and 47.2 %, respectively. On the basis of phenotypic and genotypic data, strain HA11110T represents a novel species of the genus Streptomyces, for which the name Streptomyces mangrovi sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is HA11110T ( = CGMCC 4.7117T = DSM 42113T).
Streptomyces rubrisoli sp. nov., neutrotolerant acidophilic actinomycetes isolated from red soil
Authors: Guo Xiaoxuan , Zhang Limin , Li Xiaomin , Gao Yongsheng , Ruan Jisheng , Huang Ying
Published: June 2015

Three neutrotolerant, acidophilic actinomycete strains, designated FXJ1.526, FXJ1.725T and FXJ1.726, were isolated from red soil collected from Liujiazhan, Jiangxi Province, China. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that the three strains clustered together and their closest relative was Streptomyces ferralitis CGMCC 4.1985T (98.9–99.0 % similarity). Multilocus sequence analysis confirmed their relationship to S. ferralitis and separated these strains as representing a novel species. Mean DNA–DNA hybridization values among strains FXJ1.526, FXJ1.725T and FXJ1.726 were 81.6 ± 3.5–87.2 ± 3.8 %, and the values between the three strains and S. ferralitis CGMCC 4.1985T were well below 70 %. The three strains also shared several phenotypic characteristics that were distinct from the closely related species. They grew at 21–50 °C, at pH 4.0–9.0 (with an optimal pH of 5.0) and with 0–3 % (w/v) NaCl, and the major cellular fatty acids were anteiso-C15 : 0, iso-C15 : 0 and iso-C16 : 0. On the basis of data from this polyphasic taxonomic study, it is proposed that strains FXJ1.526, FXJ1.725T and FXJ1.726 be classified as representatives of a novel species of the genus Streptomyces, with the name Streptomyces rubrisoli sp. nov. The type strain is FXJ1.725T ( = CGMCC 4.7025T = DSM 42083T).