bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterisation of Complex Electrode Processes using Simultaneous Impedance Spectroscopy and Electrochemical Nanogravimetric Measurements
Authors: Berkes Balázs B. , Huang Minghua , Henry John B. , Kokoschka Malte , Bandarenka Aliaksandr S.
Published: February 2014

The methodology and illustrative examples of application are presented for a technique that simultaneously combines electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and nanogravimetric measurements; the latter are implemented using a so‐called electrochemical quartz crystal nanobalance (EQCN). The combination of EIS and EQCN provides a powerful method for the characterisation of many complex processes at electrochemical interfaces. This method gives in one relatively simple experiment more detailed information than is available from conventional electrochemical techniques. The combined measurements can be performed either as a function of time, at a constant electrode potential, or under potentiodynamic conditions, as a function of the electrode potential. Herein, we show how this can be applied to enable more accurate investigation of processes that occur at boundaries between electrodes and electrolytes. The application examples range from eletrocatalysis, in which evaluation of a catalyst is performed simultaneously with its formation, and the intercalation and electrodeposition of thin metal films to in situ characterisation of non‐electroactive self‐assembled monolayers during their formation.
Robust sampled‐data H∞ control for mechanical systems
Authors: Sakthivel Rathinasamy , Arunkumar Arumugham , Mathiyalagan Kalidass
Published: February 2014

This article addresses the issue of robust sampled‐data
control for a class of uncertain mechanical systems with input delays and linear fractional uncertainties which appear in all the mass, damping, and stiffness matrices. Then, a novel Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional is constructed to obtain sufficient conditions under which the uncertain mechanical system is robustly, asymptotically stable with disturbance attenuation level
about its equilibrium point for all admissible uncertainties. More precisely, Schur complement and Jenson's integral inequality are utilized to substantially simplify the derivation of the main results. In particular, a set of sampled‐data
controller is designed in terms of the solution of certain linear matrix inequalities that can be solved effectively using available MATLAB software. Finally, a numerical example with simulation result is provided to show the effectiveness and less conservativeness of the proposed sampled‐data
control scheme. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 20: 19–29, 2015
Heterodoped nanoflakes: synthesis and characterization of sulfur‐doped NbSe2 nanoflakes
Authors: Chen Shuai , Li Hongping , Tang Hua , Zhang Yi , Yang Jin , Ji Xiao Rui , Chen Lin , Zhang Kun , Li Changsheng
Published: February 2014

Doping of NbSe2 with heteroatoms is an effective way to tailor its properties. Here, solid phase synthesis process has been utilized for growing uniform and excellent crystalline nano‐NbSe2 by sulfur dopant during the growing process. The sulfur‐doped mechanism of nano‐NbS2xSe2(1‐x)(x = 0.03∼0.2) has been investigated: the sulfur atoms not only replace the Se position but also intercalate in layer gap by one‐step reaction. In the structure of NbSe2, the sulfur atoms replace the positions of Se atoms and then are located in the empty octahedral positions of van der waals gap between the NbSe2 layers with the increase of sulfur content. The lubrication properties of the as‐prepared NbSe2 and sulfur‐doped NbSe2 powders as additives in HVI1500 base oil were discussed. The lubrication properties of base oil was improved by both NbSe2 and sulfur‐doped NbSe2. Furthermore, the lubrication properties of sulfur‐doped (0.1at%) NbSe2 are better than those of pure NbSe2 in HVI1500 base oil, which could be attributed to their thin laminated structure and the sulfur dopant.
Polymorphic composition and morphology of calcium carbonate as a function of ultrasonic irradiation
Authors: Njegić Džakula B. , Kontrec J. , Ukrainczyk M. , Sviben S. , Kralj D.
Published: February 2014

This paper reports on the precipitation of CaCO3 polymorphs, having various crystal morphologies under different conditions. In particular, systems that were subject to ultrasonic irradiation were compared to the corresponding reference systems in the absence of such a treatment. The application of ultrasonic irradiation predominantly resulted in a change of particle size distribution and polymorphic composition of the precipitate, in comparison to the reference systems. Thus, it was found that the supersaturation and temperature influenced the size distribution, in both the reference and sonicated systems. A mixture of calcite, vaterite and aragonite was obtained in all reference systems, at 25 °C. At this temperature, the sonication caused the vaterite content to increase, while aragonite was not detected. In reference and sonicated systems at 80 °C, only aragonite precipitated. The results also indicate that the principle parameter responsible for the morphology of vaterite was the initial supersaturation: at higher supersaturation spherical vaterite particles precipitated, while at lower supersaturation hexagonal platelets were obtained. The morphological investigations also indicated different mechanisms of vaterite formation in the systems in which precipitation was initiated at higher supersaturation: spherulitic growth of vaterite was observed in sonicated systems, while the aggregation of primary particles was predominant in the reference systems. At lower supersaturation, the effect of c(Ca2+)/c(CO32−) on the morphology of hexagonal platelets of vaterite was observed as well. By varying the c(Ca2+)/c(CO32−), significant changes of the polymorphic composition were observed only in the sonicated systems, at 25 °C.
Determination of the phase diagram for the crystallization of L‐asparaginase II by a turbidity technique
Authors: Liu Yi , Pietzsch Markus , Ulrich Joachim
Published: February 2014

Phase diagrams including the metastable zone width for the L‐asparaginase II from Escherichia coli with both PEG6000 and ethanol as a precipitant agent were determined, respectively. A turbidity technique giving results of nucleation and solubility limits in hours rather than in days was introduced. For the first time such data necessary for designing and controlling of crystallization processes of L‐asparaginase II are presented. Since the catalytical activity is an important parameter for L‐asparaginase II as an enzyme, a new type of phase diagram plotting the enzymatic activity as a function of temperature was established as well. Additionally, the crystalline L‐asparaginase II crystals with different shapes that formed in PEG6000 and ethanol, respectively, were also investigated by X‐ray Powder Diffraction (XRPD).
Role of Additives in Formation of Solid–Electrolyte Interfaces on Carbon Electrodes and their Effect on High‐Voltage Stability
Authors: Qu Weiguo , Dorjpalam Enkhtuvshin , Rajagopalan Ramakrishnan , Randall Clive A.
Published: February 2014

The in situ modification of a lithium hexafluorophosphate‐based electrolyte using a molybdenum oxide catalyst and small amount of water (1 vol %) yields hydrolysis products such as mono‐, di‐, and alkylfluorophosphates. The electrochemical stability of ultrahigh‐purity, high‐surface‐area carbon electrodes derived from polyfurfuryl alcohol was tested using the modified electrolyte. Favorable modification of the solid electrolyte interface (SEI) layer on the activated carbon electrode increased the cyclable electrochemical voltage window (4.8–1.2 V vs. Li/Li+). The chemical modification of the SEI layer induced by electrolyte additives was characterized by using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy.
Characterization of Al2O3 Thin Films Fabricated at Low Temperature via Atomic Layer Deposition on PEN Substrates
Authors: Choi Kyung‐Hyun , Ali Kamran , Kim Chang Young , Muhammad Nauman Malik
Published: February 2014

Good quality Al2O3 thin films are deposited on polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) substrates through atomic layer deposition (ALD) at temperatures as low as 35 °C. Trimethylaluminum [TMA, Al(CH3)3] and water are used as precursors in the present study. Growth rates of 1.14 Å per cycle are observed at 35 °C, while the average arithmetic roughness (Ra) of the film is 0.86 nm. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis confirms the high purity of the grown films with no carbon contamination. Good insulating properties are observed for the films and optical transmittance of more than 90% is recorded in the visible region.
Visible Light Photocatalytic Activity in AACVD‐Prepared N‐modified TiO2 Thin Films
Authors: Diesen Veronica , Dunnill Charles W. , Bear Joseph C. , Firth Steve , Jonsson Mats , Parkin Ivan P.
Published: February 2014

Nitrogen‐modified TiO2 thin films are obtained, for the first time, from aerosol‐assisted (AA)CVD‐prepared samples via a post‐treatment method involving immersion in liquid ammonia to achieve nitrogen‐modified TiO2 and visible‐light photo‐activity. The resulting modified and unmodified TiO2 films are characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy (RS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high resolution (HR)TEM, energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX) spectroscopy, selected area electron diffraction (SAED), UV‐vis spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). This shows that the films are ∼200 nm thick and contain anisotropic crystals of anatase TiO2. XPS shows that the nitrogen is successfully added to the surface of the film interstitially at 0.7 at.‐%, but is only present to a film depth of 50 nm. The nitrogen doping causes a red shift in the absorption band and a band gap narrowing of ∼0.1 eV. The surface‐bound nitrogen results from the post‐treatment method of doping where the films are soaked in liquid ammonia before annealing. The photocatalytic efficiencies of the films under visible light (>385 nm) are evaluated by measuring formaldehyde formation from the probe molecule tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane (Tris). Hydrogen abstraction from Tris, obtained from, e.g., photocatalytically produced OH radicals, leads to formaldehyde formation which is then detected through a modified version of the Hantzsch reaction. The results show that the N‐modified film possess remarkable photocatalytic properties with an apparent photochemical quantum yield of ∼8%.
Sitting infants alter the magnitude and structure of postural sway when performing a manual goal‐directed task
Authors: Claxton Laura J. , Strasser Jennifer M. , Leung Elise J. , Ryu Joong Hyun , O'Brien Kathleen M.
Published: February 2014

In typical daily life, adults routinely adapt posture so that balance can be maintained while other goal‐directed activities are performed. Interestingly, newly standing infants also control posture based on the demands of a task. It is unknown if the ability to properly adapt postural movements as a goal‐directed task is performed emerges soon after the acquisition of independent stance or if it is present at earlier key postural milestones, such as independent sitting. In this study, the postural sway patterns of independently sitting infants were compared while either holding or not holding a toy. Infants exhibited less postural sway when holding the toy. This reduction in sway allowed infants to look at and stabilize the toy in their hand. Thus, the ability to adjust postural movements while performing a concurrent goal‐directed task emerges long before the acquisition of independent stance. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 56: 1416–1422, 2014.
Determination of levamisole, aminorex, and pemoline in plasma by means of liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry and application to a pharmacokinetic study of levamisole
Authors: Hess Cornelius , Ritke Natalie , Sydow Konrad , Mehling Lena‐Maria , Ruehs Hauke , Madea Burkhard , Musshoff Frank
Published: February 2014

Levamisole is an anti‐helminthic drug and gained forensic interest after it was found that it was used as a cocaine adulterant. A liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC‐MS) method for the determination of levamisole and its metabolite aminorex in human plasma is described. Selectivity is given; calibration curves were linear within a calibration range of 1 ng/mL–500 ng/mL. Limits of detection and quantification (LODs, LOQs) were 0.85 ng/mL for levamisole and 0.09 ng/mL, and 0.34 ng/mL for aminorex, respectively. Precision data was in accordance with the GTFCh guidelines. The validated method was successfully applied to study the pharmacokinetics of levamisole after administration of 100 mg of levamisole orally. Levamisole could be detected up to 36 h after ingestion in serum, while aminorex never exceeded the LOQ. A one‐compartment model best described levamisole pharmacokinetics. The following parameters were calculated: ka = 1.2 [1/h], CL/F = 52 l/h, V/F = 347 l, f (renal) = 0.0005, t ½ = 2.0 h, AUC = 1923 ng/mL*h, cmax = 214 ng/mL, tmax = 1.98 h. Levamisole could be quantified in 42.5% of cocaine – positive plasma samples (2.2 to 224 ng/mL). Aminorex was positive in only 11.3% of the cases; however, it was never found higher than the LOQ. Pemoline, another stimulant detected in horse urine samples after administration of levamisole, was not found either in serum or in urine of this pharmacokinetic study. In post‐mortem cases, levamisole and aminorex could be detected in femoral blood and the urine of cocaine users. Pemoline was not detected. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Applications of hidden hybrid Markov/semi‐Markov models: from stopover duration to breeding success dynamics
Authors: Choquet Rémi , Béchet Arnaud , Guédon Yann
Published: February 2014

Usually in capture–recapture, a model parameter is time or time since first capture dependent. However, the case where the probability of staying in one state depends on the time spent in that particular state is not rare. Hidden Markov models are not appropriate to manage these situations. A more convenient approach would be to consider models that incorporate semi‐Markovian states which explicitly define the waiting time distribution and have been used in previous biologic studies as a convenient framework for modeling the time spent in a given physiological state. Here, we propose hidden Markovian models that combine several nonhomogeneous Markovian states with one semi‐Markovian state and which (i) are well adapted to imperfect and variable detection and (ii) allow us to consider time, time since first capture, and time spent in one state effects. Implementation details depending on the number of semi‐Markovian states are discussed. From a user's perspective, the present approach enhances the toolbox for analyzing capture–recapture data. We then show the potential of this framework by means of two ecological examples: (i) stopover duration and (ii) breeding success dynamics.
Phytoplankton chlorophyte structure as related to ENSO events in a saline lowland river (Salado River, Buenos Aires, Argentina)
Authors: Solari Lía C. , Gabellone Néstor A. , Claps María C. , Casco María A. , Quaíni Karina P. , Neschuk Nancy C.
Published: February 2014

We analyzed the phytoplankton present in the lower sector of the Salado River (Buenos Aires, Argentina) for 10 years (1995–2005) and detected significant changes occurring in chlorophyte abundance and species richness during La Niña event (1998–1999), which period was analyzed throughout the entire basin (main stream and tributaries). We compared the physicochemical and biologic variables between two El Niño–La Niña–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) periods – El Niño (March 1997–January 1998) and La Niña (May 1998–May 1999) – to identify possible indicators of a relationship between climatic anomalies and chlorophyte performance. Chlorophyte density increased during the La Niña. Under normal or extreme hydrologic conditions, mobile (Chlamydomonas spp.) and nonmobile (Monoraphidium spp.) chlorophytes codominated. These species belonged to Reynolds's functional groups X1 and X2, those typical of nutrient‐enriched environments. Comparative analyses between El Niño and La Niña periods indicated significant differences in physicochemical (K+, dissolved polyphenols, particulate reactive phosphorus, alkalinity, pH) and biologic (species diversity and richness, phytoplankton and chlorophyte total densities) variables between the two periods at all basin sites. During the La Niña condition, species richness was greater owing to interconnected shallow lakes and drainage‐channel inputs, while the Shannon diversity index was lower because of the high abundance values of Monoraphidium minutum. A detailed analysis of the chlorophytes in the entire basin, indicated that changes in density and species dominance occurred on a regional scale although diverse chlorophyte assemblages were identified in the different sectors of the Salado River basin. After La Niña event, the entire basin had the potential to revert to the previous density values, showing the resilience to global environmental changes and the ability to reestablish the general conditions of stability.
Tree water uptake in a tropical plantation varying in tree diversity: interspecific differences, seasonal shifts and complementarity
Authors: Schwendenmann Luitgard , Pendall Elise , Sanchez‐Bragado Rut , Kunert Norbert , Hölscher Dirk
Published: February 2014

We studied tree water uptake patterns, tested for complementary water use among species and analysed controlling factors in a tropical tree diversity experiment. The water uptake depth of five species was investigated across seasons and diversity levels using the natural abundance of water isotopes (δ2H, δ18O) and modelling. Three distinct water acquisition strategies were found for trees growing in monocultures during the dry season: strong reliance (>70%) on soil water from the upper layer (0–30 cm) (Cedrela odorata), uptake from the upper and deeper layers (>30 cm) in equal proportions (Hura crepitans, Anacardium excelsum and Luehea seemannii) and water uptake predominately from deeper layers (Tabebuia rosea). Seasonal shifts in water uptake were most pronounced for T. rosea. The water uptake pattern of a given species was independent of the diversity level underlining the importance of species identity and species characteristics in spatial and temporal tree water use. Statistics did not show a significant effect of diversity on source water fractions, but we did see some evidence for complementary water resource utilization in mixed species plots, especially in the dry season. Our results also demonstrated that the depth of soil water uptake was related to leaf phenology and tree transpiration rates. A higher proportion of water obtained from deeper soil layers was associated with a high percentage foliage cover in the dry season, which explained the higher transpiration rates. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proteomic biomarkers of recovered heart function
Authors: Hollander Zsuzsanna , Lazárová Marie , Lam Karen K.Y. , Ignaszewski Andrew , Oudit Gavin Y. , Dyck Jason R. B. , Schreiner George , Pauwels Julie , Chen Virginia , Cohen Freue Gabriela V. , Ng Raymond T. , Wilson‐McManus Janet E. , Balshaw Robert , Tebbutt Scott J. , McMaster Robert W. , Keown Paul A. , McManus Bruce M. ,   for the NCE CECR PROOF Prevention of Organ Failure (PROOF) Centre of Excellence
Published: February 2014

Aims

Chronic heart failure is a costly epidemic that affects up to 2% of people in developed countries. The purpose of this study was to discover novel blood proteomic biomarker signatures of recovered heart function that could lead to more effective heart failure patient management by both primary care and specialty physicians.

Methods and results

The discovery cohort included 41 heart transplant patients and 20 healthy individuals. Plasma levels of 138 proteins were detected in at least 75% of these subjects by iTRAQ mass spectrometry. Eighteen proteins were identified that had (i) differential levels between pre‐transplant patients with end‐stage heart failure and healthy individuals; and (ii) levels that returned to normal by 1 month post‐transplant in patients with stable heart function after transplantation. Seventeen of the 18 markers were validated by multiple reaction monitoring mass spectrometry in a cohort of 39 heart failure patients treated with drug therapy, of which 30 had recovered heart function and 9 had not. This 17‐protein biomarker panel had 93% sensitivity and 89% specificity, while the RAMP® NT‐proBNP assay had the same specificity but 80% sensitivity. Performance further improved when the panel was combined with NT‐proBNP, yielding a net reclassification index relative to NT‐proBNP of 0.28.

Conclusions

We have identified potential blood biomarkers of recovered heart function by harnessing data from transplant patients. These biomarkers can lead to the development of an inexpensive protein‐based blood test that could be used by physicians to monitor response to therapy in heart failure, resulting in more personalized, front‐line heart failure patient management.
Lack of microbiota reduces innate responses and enhances adaptive immunity againstListeria monocytogenesinfection
Authors: Mittrücker Hans‐Willi , Seidel Daniel , Bland Paul W. , Zarzycka Agnieszka , Kaufmann Stefan H. E. , Visekruna Alexander , Steinhoff Ulrich
Published: February 2014

The intestinal microbiota influences not only metabolic processes, but also the mucosal and systemic immune systems. Here, we compare innate and adaptive immune responses against the intracellular pathogenListeria monocytogenesin germfree (GF) and conventional mice. We show that animals without endogenous microbiota are highly susceptible to primary infection with impaired activation and accumulation of phagocytes to the site of infection. Unexpectedly, secondary infection with otherwise lethal dose resulted in survival of all GF animals which cleared bacteria more rapidly and developed a stronger antilisterial CD8+memory T‐cell response compared to conventional mice. In summary, lack of the intestinal microbiota impairs early innate immunity, but enhances activation and expansion of memory T cells.
Upconversion‐Luminescent Core/Mesoporous‐Silica‐Shell‐Structured β‐NaYF4:Yb3+,Er3+@SiO2@mSiO2 Composite Nanospheres: Fabrication and Drug‐Storage/Release Properties
Authors: Liu Bei , Li Chunxia , Yang Dongmei , Hou Zhiyao , Ma Ping'an , Cheng Ziyong , Lian Hongzhou , Huang Shanshan , Lin Jun
Published: February 2014

We present the fabrication, upconversion‐luminescence cell imaging, and drug‐storage/release properties of upconversion‐luminescent core/mesoporous‐silica‐shell‐structured β‐NaYF4:Yb3+,Er3+@SiO2@mSiO2 composite nanospheres with a size of 80 nm. The biocompatibility test on L929 fibroblast cells using a 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay reveals the low cytotoxicity of the system. The drug‐storage and in vitro release tests indicate that these multifunctional nanomaterials have controlled drug‐loading and ‐release properties for ibuprofen (IBU). Moreover, the upconversion (UC) emission intensity of IBU‐β‐NaYF4:Yb3+,Er3+@SiO2@mSiO2 composite nanospheres increases gradually along with the released amount of IBU. Additionally, upconversion luminescence images of β‐NaYF4:Yb3+,Er3+@SiO2@mSiO2 uptaken by cells show clear green emission under 980 nm infrared laser excitation. These findings make these material promising for applications in the bioimaging, drug delivery, and disease therapy fields on the basis of its upconversion‐luminescent and mesoporous properties.
Two Tetranuclear Copper(II) Complexes with Open Cubane‐Like Cu4O4 Core Framework and Ferromagnetic Exchange Interactions between Copper(II) Ions: Structure, Magnetic Properties, and Density Functional Study
Authors: Gungor Elif , Kara Hulya , Colacio Enrique , Mota Antonio J.
Published: February 2014

Two alkoxo‐bridged copper(II) tridentate Schiff base complexes [{Cu(H2L1)}4] (1) [H2L1 = N‐(2‐hydroxyethyl)‐3,5‐di‐tert‐butylsalicylaldimine] and {Cu(H2L2)}4 (2) [H2L2 = N‐(2‐hydroxyethyl)‐4‐methoxysalicylaldimine] have been synthesized and structurally and magnetically characterized. X‐ray diffraction studies show that 1 and 2 are tetranuclear alkoxo‐bridged copper(II) complexes that contain a rather distorted Cu4O4 cubane core of 4+2 type (four short and two long Cu···Cu distances). The coordination of each copper ion can be described as a distorted square pyramid with one nitrogen and four oxygen atoms from three ligands. Variable‐temperature magnetic susceptibility measurements on the two tetranuclear complexes 1 and 2 in the range 2–300 K indicate ferromagnetic exchange coupling between copper(II) centers. The magnetic susceptibility data were analyzed by using a simple two‐J model with J′ and J″ representing the magnetic exchange couplings through the short and long Cu···Cu exchange pathways, respectively. The J values were as follows: J′ = +28.7 cm–1 and J″ = +7.8 cm–1 for 1, and J′ = +39.8 cm–1 and J″ = +10.2 cm–1 for 2. The sign and magnitude of the exchange coupling constants were justified on the basis of the structural geometric factors of the bridging Cu(O)2Cu fragments, the overlap of the magnetic orbitals, and DFT calculations.
C‐3β‐Tethered Functional Cholesterol Conjugates by Nitrile Oxide Alkyne Cycloaddition (NOAC)
Authors: Algay Virginie , O'Sullivan Justine , Heaney Frances
Published: February 2014

Covalent cholesterol conjugates have been prepared by isoxazole‐generating [3+2] nitrile oxide alkyne cycloaddition (NOAC) chemistry. Steroidal building blocks functionalised with either an alkyne or a nitrile oxide precursor were evaluated. The reaction has been demonstrated for the tethering to cholesterol of groups capable of bioreporting, and for the formation of cholesterol–biomolecule conjugates.
Syntheses of a Flobufen Metabolite and Dapoxetine Based on Enantioselective Allylation of Aromatic Aldehydes
Authors: Hessler Filip , Korotvička Aleš , Nečas David , Valterová Irena , Kotora Martin
Published: February 2014

The enantioselective allylation of an aromatic aldehyde to give a chiral homoallylic alcohol was employed as the key step in the syntheses of a flobufen metabolite and dapoxetine. In the former case, the homoallylic alcohol moiety (99 % ee) was converted into a five‐membered lactone ring with good preservation of the optical purity, and the target compound, a flobufen metabolite, was obtained in 95 % ee. In the latter case, the homoallylic alcohol moiety (97 % ee) was transformed over several steps into a 3‐aminopropanol moiety. During the course of the synthesis, the gradual loss of optical purity was observed, and the target compound, dapoxetine, was obtained in 85 % ee.
Confabulating reasons for behaving bad: The psychological consequences of unconsciously activated behaviour that violates one's standards
Authors: Adriaanse Marieke A. , Weijers Jonas , De Ridder Denise T. D. , De Witt Huberts Jessie , Evers Catharine
Published: February 2014

Numerous studies have been conducted to demonstrate that behaviours are frequently activated unconsciously. The present studies investigate the downstream psychological consequences of such unconscious behaviour activation, building on work on the explanatory vacuum and post‐priming misattribution. It was hypothesized that unconsciously activated behaviours trigger a negative affective response if the behaviour violates a personal standard and that this negative affect subsequently motivates people to confabulate a reason for the behaviour. Results provided evidence for this mediated moderation model. Study 1 showed that participants who were primed to act less prosocially indeed reported increased levels of negative affect and, as a result, were inclined to confabulate a reason for their behaviour. Study 2 replicated these findings in the domain of eating and provided evidence for the moderating role of personal standards as well as the entire mediated moderation model. These findings have relevant theoretical implications as they add to the modest number of studies that demonstrate that the effect of unconscious priming may extend well beyond performing the primed behaviour itself to influence subsequent affect and attribution processes. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Metabolic crosstalk between the heart and liver impacts familial hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Magida Jason A , Leinwand Leslie A
Published: February 2014

Familial hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is largely caused by dominant mutations in genes encoding cardiac sarcomeric proteins, and it is etiologically distinct from secondary cardiomyopathies resulting from pressure/volume overload and neurohormonal or inflammatory stimuli. Here, we demonstrate that decreased left ventricular contractile function in male, but not female, HCM mice is associated with reduced fatty acid translocase (CD36) and AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) activity. As a result, the levels of myocardial ATP and triglyceride (TG) content are reduced, while the levels of oleic acid and TG in circulating very low density lipoproteins (VLDLs) and liver are increased. With time, these metabolic changes culminate in enhanced glucose production in male HCM mice. Remarkably, restoration of ventricular TG and ATP deficits via AMPK agonism as well as inhibition of gluconeogenesis improves ventricular architecture and function. These data underscore the importance of the systemic effects of a primary genetic heart disease to other organs and provide insight into potentially novel therapeutic interventions for HCM.
Genetic and Environmental Factors Underlying Comorbid Bulimic Behaviours and Alcohol Use Disorders: A Moderating Role for the Dysregulated Personality Cluster?
Authors: Slane Jennifer D. , Klump Kelly L. , McGue Matthew , Iacono G.
Published: February 2014

Women with bulimia nervosa (BN) frequently have co‐occurring alcohol use disorders (AUDs). Studies of shared genetic transmission of these disorders have been mixed. Personality heterogeneity among individuals with BN may explain discrepant findings. Cluster analysis has characterized women with BN in groups on the basis of personality profiles. One group, the Dysregulated cluster, characterized largely by behavioural disinhibition and emotional dysregulation may be more closely linked etiologically to AUDs. This study examined whether genetic associations between BN and AUDs are the strongest among the Dysregulated cluster. Symptoms of BN and AUDs were assessed in female twins at ages 17 and 25 years from the Minnesota Twin Family Study. Personality clusters were defined using the Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire. Twin moderation models suggested small‐to‐moderate common genetic transmission between BN and AUDs. However, shared genetic effects did not differ by personality cluster. Findings suggest that personality clusters are unlikely to account for inconsistent findings regarding their shared aetiology. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
The use of mycorrhiza for eco‐engineering measures in steep alpine environments: effects on soil aggregate formation and fine‐root development
Authors: Bast Alexander , Wilcke Wolfgang , Graf Frank , Lüscher Peter , Gärtner Holger
Published: February 2014

Steep erosion‐prone and vegetation‐free slopes are widespread in alpine areas and are often discussed since they have a high socio‐economic damage potential. We present an eco‐engineering approach to test whether a mycorrhizal inoculum improves the establishment of hedge brush layers and in turn soil structural stability on a steep, coarse‐grained vegetation‐free slope in the eastern Swiss Alps. We established (i) mycorrhizal and (ii) non‐mycorrhizal treated eco‐engineered research plots on a field experimental scale, covering a total area of approximately 1000 m2 on an east‐northeast (ENE) exposed slope, where many environmental parameters can be regarded as homogeneous. After a full vegetation period, we quantified soil aggregate stability, the formation of water stable aggregates and the fine‐root development.

Our results illustrate that the establishment of brush layers without mycorrhizal inoculum increased aggregate stability significantly. Against our expectation and glasshouse experiments, the addition of mycorrhizal inoculum did not have a statistically significant effect after one vegetation period although it tended to increase aggregate stability. Analogously, root length density (RLD) tended to be higher at the non‐mycorrhizal treated site. Aggregate stability was significantly correlated with RLD.

Studies on a bigger field experimental scale are inevitable, complement glasshouse studies and lead to a better understanding for a successful application of sustainable eco‐engineering measures in alpine environments. Based on our results and considering the fact that the response time in natural ecosystems may be slower than in laboratory approaches, we conclude that long‐term field studies are necessary to validate results gained through laboratory experiments. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Organophosphate pesticides induce morphological abnormalities and decrease locomotor activity and heart rate in Danio rerio and Xenopus laevis
Authors: Watson Fiona L. , Schmidt Hayden , Turman Zackery K. , Hole Natalie , Garcia Hena , Gregg Jonathan , Tilghman Joseph , Fradinger Erica A.
Published: February 2014

Organophosphate pesticides (OPs), a class of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, are used widely in agriculture to reduce insect populations. Because of the conservation of acetylcholinesterase between invertebrates and vertebrates, OPs also can adversely affect nontarget species, such as aquatic and terrestrial animals. This study used uniform conditions to analyze the morphological and physiological effects caused by developmental exposure to 3 commonly used OPs—chlorpyrifos, dichlorvos, and diazinon—on 2 aquatic vertebrate species, Danio rerio (zebrafish) and Xenopus laevis. Survival, locomotor activity, heart rate, and gross anatomical abnormalities, including kyphosis and edema, were observed over a 5-d period in response to OP concentrations ranging from 0 µM to 1000 µM. Both zebrafish and Xenopus showed decreased survival for all 3 OPs at higher concentrations. However, Xenopus showed higher mortality than zebrafish at lower chlorpyrifos and dichlorvos concentrations. Both models showed a dose-dependent decrease in heart rate and free-swimming larval activity in response to chlorpyrifos and dichlorvos. In addition, kyphosis and decreased spine length were prominent in Xenopus in response to 10 µM of chlorpyrifos and 0.1 µM dichlorvos. Although diazinon induced no effects on skeletal and cardiac motor activity in either species, it did induce cardiac edemas in zebrafish. Differences in the biological actions of OPs and their differential effects in these 2 vertebrate models demonstrate the importance of using common protocols and multiple models to evaluate the ecotoxicology of OPs. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:1337–1345. © 2014 SETAC
Effects of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles on caribbean reef-building coral (Montastraea faveolata)
Authors: Jovanović Boris , Guzmán Héctor M.
Published: February 2014

Increased use of manufactured titanium dioxide nanoparticles (nano-TiO2) is causing a rise in their concentration in the aquatic environment, including coral reef ecosystems. Caribbean mountainous star coral (Montastraea faveolata) has frequently been used as a model species to study gene expression during stress and bleaching events. Specimens of M. faveolata were collected in Panama and exposed for 17 d to nano-TiO2 suspensions (0.1 mg L−1 and 10 mg L−1). Exposure to nano-TiO2 caused significant zooxanthellae expulsion in all the colonies, without mortality. Induction of the gene for heat-shock protein 70 (HSP70) was observed during an early stage of exposure (day 2), indicating acute stress. However, there was no statistical difference in HSP70 expression on day 7 or 17, indicating possible coral acclimation and recovery from stress. No other genes were significantly upregulated. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry analysis revealed that nano-TiO2 was predominantly trapped and stored within the posterior layer of the coral fragment (burrowing sponges, bacterial and fungal mats). The bioconcentration factor in the posterior layer was close to 600 after exposure to 10 mg L−1 of nano-TiO2 for 17 d. The transient increase in HSP70, expulsion of zooxanthellae, and bioaccumulation of nano-TiO2 in the microflora of the coral colony indicate the potential of such exposure to induce stress and possibly contribute to an overall decrease in coral populations. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:1346–1353. © 2014 SETAC
Numerical modelling of bridges in 2D shallow water flow simulations
Authors: Ratia H. , Murillo J. , García‐Navarro P.
Published: February 2014

Two representations of bridges are presented to fit into simulations based on the 2D SWEs. They include a novel and simple empirical formulation for total head loss caused by bridges which covers all flow regimes: free water surface, partially submerged flow, and fully submerged flow. The performances of the different representations of bridges are assessed using experimental results of steady and unsteady flows, presented for the first time in this work. A case study of a real flood is presented giving insight into the application of the representation techniques to real engineering problems. The proposed solution of a head loss representation together with the novel formulation is shown to be accurate for both steady and unsteady flows, and to perform efficiently for solving the flood case. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fabrication of Aluminum Bipolar Plates by Semi‐solid Forging Process and Performance Test of TiN Coated Aluminum Bipolar Plates
Authors: Jin C. K. , Jung M. G. , Kang C. G.
Published: February 2014

Aluminum bipolar plates that can replace graphite bipolar plates for PEM fuel cells are made by applying a semi‐solid forging process. A semi‐solid slurry is made using electromagnetic stirring (EMS), and the resulting slurry is injected into a forging die attached to a 200 ton hydraulic press. The slurry is then compressed with a punch, flowed into a die cavity, and solidified into the bipolar plate form. A356 (cast Al alloy), A6061 (wrought Al alloy), and A1100 (pure Al) are used to make the plates. Titanium nitride (TiN) coating is deposited on the aluminum bipolar plates. An atomic force microscope (AFM) is used to measure the surface roughness of the plates. TiN coated A356 and A1100 plates have a surface roughness of Ra < 1.2 μm. The plate thickness is 1.2 mm. The active area of the channel is 70 mm × 70 mm, with a depth and width of 0.3 and 1.0 mm, respectively. The three TiN‐coated aluminum plates are combined with a unit cell for a performance test. Our results show that a current density value of 473 mA cm–2 (about 41% of the current density value of commercial graphite plates) can be obtained.
Perfect Match? European Natural Gas Markets and North American LNG Exports
Authors: Goncalves Christopher , Melling Anthony
Published: February 2014

European natural gas markets and North American liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports could be seen as a perfect match.
Electric Vehicles: Electric Vehicles May Reduce Oil Imports While Stabilizing Grid
Authors: Schlesinger Benjamin
Published: February 2014

One of the signal aspects of the US energy market is its nearly complete division into two separate and discrete components, complete with separate investments, ownership, regulations, and fuels.
Frequent translocations of 11q13.2 and 19p13.2 in ovarian cancer
Authors: Wang Liang , Wenners Antonia , Hilpert Felix , Fredrik Regina , Micci Francesca , Onkes Wiebke , Caliebe Amke , Maass Nicolai , Weimer Jörg , Arnold Norbert
Published: February 2014

Aberrations of chromosome arm 19p in ovarian cancer were first described decades ago and have been confirmed in recent publications, which have focused on chromosome 11 as a translocation partner. Recently, genetic analysis of the ovarian cancer cell line SKOV3 revealed a rearrangement described as der(19)t(11;19)(q13.2;p13.2), which lead to a fusion protein containing parts of HOOK2 and frame shifted ACTN3 that had unknown functionality. To evaluate the frequency of these breakpoints, we used fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) probes flanking these genes for interphase analysis of ovarian cancer cells. We analyzed 49 primary cell cultures of ovarian cancers using FISH probes next to these breakpoints on chromosomes 11 and 19 defined in SKOV3. Co‐localizations of the signals in interphase nuclei were considered to be positive fusions when the frequency was over the experimentally calculated cutoff of 24.3% (mean average value for normal ovary cells plus three times the standard deviation). Fusions between 11q13.2 and 19p13.2 were confirmed in 22 (45%) primary cell cultures of ovarian cancers. However, by PCR, the fusion originally described in SKOV3 was not detected in any of the primary cell cultures. Our results confirm other reports and show that these regions are very frequently involved in chromosomal rearrangements in ovarian cancer. Furthermore, they reveal a significant correlation (P = 0.023) of co‐localized signals of 11q13.2 and 19p13.2 with low and intermediate grades in ovarian cancer. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impaired verbal memory is a significant predictor of early cerebral‐cardiovascular death, an 18‐year follow‐up of a national cohort
Authors: Lowry Joseph , Austin Anissa , Al‐Sayegh Hasan , Yan Fei , Liu Fengqi , Zhang Jian
Published: February 2014

Background

The mortality pattern of individuals with impaired verbal memory (IVM) has not yet been well described. We sought to describe the risk of all‐causes, as well as specific causes of death associated with IVM.

Method

We used the data of 4151 nationally representative adults ≥60 years old who participated in the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1988–1994, and completed one non‐contextual (i.e., word list memory) and one contextual delayed‐recall tests (i.e., short story recall). The participants were passively followed up through 31 December 2006. We determined the hazard ratio of death from all‐causes and specific cause through Cox proportional hazard regression.

Results

Severe and moderate IVM were present in 268 (6.5%) and 495 (11.9%) participants at baseline survey, and 2550 deaths occurred by the end of 18‐year follow‐up (median = 12 years). The medians of survival time adjusted for all‐causes death were 6.17(95%CI: 5.50, 6.92), 9.50 (8.92, 10.25), and 13.17 (12.75, 13.58) years, respectively for the individuals with severe, moderate, and no IVM. Severe IVM was significantly associated with death from cardio‐cerebral vascular diseases [hazard ratio = 1.70, 95%CI = (1.36–2.12)], stroke [2.60 (1.69–3.99)], and Alzheimer's disease [3.50 (1.40–8.76)]. The shortened survival time of the participants with IVM was mainly driven by the deaths of cerebral‐cardiovascular diseases, which accounted for almost half of all deaths.

Conclusion

The predictability of memory scores to early cerebral‐cardiovascular deaths demonstrated that central challenge among individuals with cognitive impairment was cardiovascular diseases management. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Morbidities after maxillary swing nasopharyngectomy for recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Chan Jimmy Yu Wai , Tsang Raymond King Yin , Wei William Ignace
Published: February 2014

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate the complications after maxillary swing nasopharyngectomy.

Methods

Salvage nasopharyngectomy was performed for 338 patients during 1990 to 2012. Patient and tumor characteristics, perioperative and intraoperative information, and long‐term morbidities were analyzed.

Results

There were significantly more patients with locally advanced tumors (rT3 and rT4) operated during the recent study period (2002–2012). However, the mean operative time and blood loss was significantly lower than in the earlier period (1990–2001). There was no hospital mortality. There was a significant reduction in the postoperative trismus and palatal fistula formation. Patients with locally advanced tumor, particularly those who required adjuvant chemoradiation, had a higher chance of facial numbness, nasal blockage, and swallowing problems after surgery.

Conclusion

Salvage nasopharyngectomy via the maxillary swing approach is safe with acceptable long‐term morbidities. Prevention of complications associated with surgery, particularly for patients with locally advanced tumors, is crucial to ensure the best outcome of surgery. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 37: 487–492, 2015
Clonal Tracing of Sox9+ Liver Progenitors in Mouse Oval Cell Injury
Authors: Tarlow Branden D. , Finegold Milton J. , Grompe Markus
Published: February 2014

Proliferating ducts, termed “oval cells,” have long been thought to be bipotential, that is, produce both biliary ducts and hepatocytes during chronic liver injury. The precursor to oval cells is considered to be a facultative liver stem cell (LSC). Recent lineage tracing experiments indicated that the LSC is SRY-related HMG box transcription factor 9 postive (Sox9+) and can replace the bulk of hepatocyte mass in several settings. However, no clonal relationship between Sox9+ cells and the two epithelial liver lineages was established. We labeled Sox9+ mouse liver cells at low density with a multicolor fluorescent confetti reporter. Organoid formation validated the progenitor activity of the labeled population. Sox9+ cells were traced in multiple oval cell injury models using both histology and fluorescence-activated cell sorting. Surprisingly, only rare clones containing both hepatocytes and oval cells were found in any experiment. Quantitative analysis showed that Sox9+ cells contributed only minimally (<1%) to the hepatocyte pool, even in classic oval cell injury models. In contrast, clonally marked mature hepatocytes demonstrated the ability to self-renew in all classic mouse oval cell activation injuries. A hepatocyte chimera model to trace hepatocytes and nonparenchymal cells also demonstrated the prevalence of hepatocyte-driven regeneration in mouse oval cell injury models.

Conclusion :

Sox9+ ductal progenitor cells give rise to clonal oval cell proliferation and bipotential organoids, but rarely produce hepatocytes

in vivo

. Hepatocytes themselves are the predominant source of new parenchyma cells in prototypical mouse models of oval cell activation. (Hepatology 2014;60:278–289)
Liver transplantation in the management of porphyria
Authors: Singal Ashwani K. , Parker Charles , Bowden Christine , Thapar Manish , Liu Lawrence , McGuire Brendan M.
Published: February 2014

Porphyrias are a group of eight metabolic disorders, each resulting from a mutation that affects an enzyme of the heme biosynthetic pathway. Porphyrias are classified as hepatic or erythropoietic, depending upon the site where the gene defect is predominantly expressed. Clinical phenotypes are classified as follows: (1) acute porphyrias with neurovisceral symptoms: acute intermittent porphyria; delta amino-levulinic acid hydratase deficiency porphyria; hereditary coproporphyria; and variegate porphyria and (2) cutaneous porphyrias with skin blistering and photosensitivity: porphyria cutanea tarda; congenital erythropoietic porphyria; hepatoerythropoietic porphyria and both erythropoietic protoporphyrias: autosomal dominant and X-linked. Liver transplantation (LT) may be needed for recurrent and/or life-threatening acute attack in acute intermittent porphyria or acute liver failure or end-stage chronic liver disease in erythropoietic protoporphyria. LT in acute intermittent porphyria is curative. Erythropoietic protoporphyria patients needing LT should be considered for bone marrow transplantation to achieve cure. Conclusion: This article provides an overview of porphyria with diagnostic approaches and management strategies for specific porphyrias and recommendations for LT with indications, pretransplant evaluation, and posttransplant management. (Hepatology 2014;60:1082–1089)