bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A dodecanuclear copper(ii) cage self-assembled from six dicopper building units
Authors: Ghosh Aloke Kumar , Pait Moumita , Clérac Rodolphe , Mathonière Corine , Bertolasi Valerio , Bauzá Antonio , Frontera Antonio , Pramanik Kausikisankar , Ray Debashis
Published: January 2014

Sandwich capping of two {Cu3(μ3-NO3)}5− triangles over a hydroxido-bridged {Cu6} hexagon, supported by six ligands resulted in a novel Cu12 cage in a flattened cuboctahedral topology.
Novel thioarsenates {[Mn(2,2′-bipy)2(SCN)][Mn(2,2′-bipy)](AsVS4)}2and {[Mn(2,2′-bipy)2(SCN)]2[AsIII2(S2)2S2]}: introducing an anionic second ligand to modify MnIIcomplex cations of 2,2′-bipyridine
Authors: Liu Guang-Ning , Guo Guo-Cong , Wang Ming-Sheng , Huang Jin-Shun
Published: January 2014

This work demonstrates that introducing an anionic second ligand to modify transition metal complex cations can direct the formation of novel chalcogenidometalates.
Deep UV generation and direct DNA photo-interaction by harmonic nanoparticles in labelled samples
Authors: Staedler Davide , Magouroux Thibaud , Passemard Solène , Schwung Sebastian , Dubled Marc , Schneiter Guillaume Stéphane , Rytz Daniel , Gerber-Lemaire Sandrine , Bonacina Luigi , Wolf Jean-Pierre
Published: January 2014

A theranostic approach based on second harmonic generation by nanoparticles is demonstrated on malignant human cells.
Vortical superlattices in a gold nanorods’ self-assembled monolayer
Authors: Xie Yong , Liang Yujia , Chen Dongxue , Wu Xiaochun , Dai Luru , Liu Qian
Published: January 2014

Various vortical superlattices of gold nanorods were obtained by a controlled droplet evaporation method, suggesting the possible manipulation of the ultimate self-assembled superstructure by an organic liquid crystal template or microfluidic droplet.
A novel approach to synthesize ultrasmall Cu doped Zn–In–Se nanocrystal emitters in a colloidal system
Authors: Ke Jun , Li Xinyong , Zhao Qidong , Shi Yong , Chen Guohua
Published: January 2014

Ultrasmall doped ternary nanocrystal emitters have been successfully synthesized by means of a novel and green route.
A photocatalyzed aliphatic fluorination
Authors: Bloom Steven , Knippel James Levi , Lectka Thomas
Published: January 2014

We disclose a new approach to the catalysis of alkane fluorination employing ultraviolet light and a photosensitizer, 1,2,4,5-tetracyanobenzene (TCB).
Non‐linear space–time Kalman filter for cooperative spectrum sensing in cognitive radios
Authors: Mohammadkarimi Mostafa , Mahboobi Behrad , Ardebilipour Mehrdad
Published: January 2014

A cooperative spectrum‐sensing problem for a cognitive radio (CR) system is investigated, where CR users collaborate to sense and track the primary users’ (PUs) activities in frequency‐selective fading channels. To sense PUs activities, channel gain estimation is performed by CRs through space–time extended Kalman filtering (STEKF). The STEKF method captures the channel gain from any point in space to each CR at each frame for a specific range of frequencies. The proposed channel gain tracking enables CRs to detect the transmit power, location and the number of active subcarriers of each PU via a time spatial weighted non‐negative Lasso (TSWNL) algorithm. The TSWNL exploits the sparsity of the PUs activities in a geographical area to track PUs activities in frequency‐selective fading channels. Numerical results indicate that the proposed spectrum sensing based on STEKF significantly improves the performance of CRs in tracking of PUs activities.
Size asymmetric hard spheres as a convenient model for the capacitance of the electrical double layer of an ionic liquid
Authors: Lamperski Stanisław , Sosnowska Joanna , Bhuiyan Lutful Bari , Henderson Douglas
Published: January 2014

Even though ionic liquids are composed of nonspherical ions, it is shown here that the general features of the capacitance of an electrical double layer can be obtained using a charged hard sphere model. We have shown in our earlier studies that at high electrolyte concentrations or large magnitudes of the electrode charge density the fact that the ions have a finite size, and are not point ions, cause the capacitance near the potential of zero charge to increase and change from a minimum to a maximum as the ionic concentration is increased and to decrease as the magnitude of the electrode charge density increases. Here, we show that the asymmetry of the capacitance of an ionic liquid can be explained qualitatively by using spherical ions of different size without attempting to introduce the ionic shape in a detailed manner. This means that the general features of the capacitance of the double layer of an ionic liquid can be studied without using a complex model, although the study of the density or charge profiles of an ionic fluid would require one. However, this is often unnecessary in the analysis of many experiments.
Low temperature spin dynamics in Cr7Ni-Cu-Cr7Ni coupled molecular rings
Authors: Bordonali L. , Furukawa Y. , Mariani M. , Sabareesh K. P. V. , Garlatti E. , Carretta S. , Lascialfari A. , Timco G. , Winpenny R. E. P. , Borsa F.
Published: January 2014

Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) relaxation measurements have been performed down to very low temperature (50 mK) to determine the effect of coupling two Cr7Ni molecular rings via a Cu2+ ion. No difference in the spin dynamics was found from nuclear spin lattice relaxation down to 1.5 K. At lower temperature, the 1H-NMR line broadens dramatically indicating spin freezing. From the plot of the line width vs. magnetization, it is found that the freezing temperature is higher (260 mK) in the coupled ring with respect to the single Cr7Ni ring (140 mK).
Terbium induced glassy magnetism in La,Ca-based cobaltites
Authors: Maryško M. , Hejtmánek J. , Jirák Z. , Kaman O. , Knížek K.
Published: January 2014

The La0.8–xTbxCa0.2CoO3 cobaltites of orthoperovskite Pbnm structure were investigated by the X-ray and neutron diffraction, specific heat, and magnetization measurements. The terbium doping has two important effects, it increases the size disorder on perovskite A-sites and influences the magnetic properties due to large Ising-type moments (∼8.9 Bohr magnetons per Tb). The compounds show a bulk magnetic moment below TC = 82 K, 53 K, and 30 K for x = 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3, respectively. The neutron diffraction evidences a long-range ferromagnetic arrangement of cobalt moments, combined below ∼20 K with ordering of terbium moments in a canted arrangement. A homogeneous magnetic phase is proved for the x = 0.1 sample, while x = 0.2 and 0.3 are in an intrinsically non-homogeneous magnetic state with long-range ordering only comprising 55% and 30% of the sample volumes. The ac susceptibility experiments prove a glassy character of the terbium doped samples and provide arguments for the short-range ordering above TC and wide distribution of relaxation times.
Low-temperature ferromagnetic properties in Co-doped Ag2Se nanoparticles
Authors: Yang Fengxia , Yu Gen , Xia Zhengcai , Han Chong , Liu Tingting , Zhang Duanming
Published: January 2014

β-Ag2Se is a topologically nontrivial insulator. The magnetic properties of Co-doped Ag2Se nanoparticles with Co concentrations up to 40% were investigated. The cusp of zero-field-cooling magnetization curves and the low-temperature hysteresis loops were observed. With increasing concentration of Co2+ ions mainly substituting AgI sites in the Ag2Se structure, the resistivity, Curie temperature Tc, and magnetization increased. At 10 T, a sharp drop of resistance near Tc was detected due to Co dopants. The ferromagnetic behavior in Co-doped Ag2Se might result from the intra-layer ferromagnetic coupling and surface spin. This magnetic semiconductor is a promising candidate in electronics and spintronics.
Experimental investigations of electron density and ion energy distributions in dual-frequency capacitively coupled plasmas for Ar/CF4 and Ar/O2/CF4 discharges
Authors: Liu Jia , Liu Yong-Xin , Bi Zhen-Hua , Gao Fei , Wang You-Nian
Published: January 2014

The electron density and ion energy distribution (IED) are investigated in low-pressure dual-frequency capacitively coupled Ar/CF4 (90%/10%) and Ar/O2/CF4 (80%/10%/10%) plasmas. The relations between controllable parameters, such as high-frequency (HF) power, low-frequency (LF) power and gas pressure, and plasma parameters, such as electron density and IEDs, are studied in detail by utilizing a floating hairpin probe and an energy resolved quadrupole mass spectrometer, respectively. In our experiment, the electron density is mainly determined by the HF power and slightly influenced by the LF power. With increasing gas pressure, the electron density first goes up rapidly to a maximum value and then decreases at various HF and LF powers. The HF power also plays a considerable role in affecting the IEDs under certain conditions and the ion energy independently controlled by the LF source is discussed here. For clarity, some numerical results obtained from a two-dimensional fluid model are presented.
Electrical switching in a Fe-thiacrown molecular device
Authors: Lan J. , Zheng X. H. , Hao H. , Wang X. L. , Shi X. Q. , Zeng Z.
Published: January 2014

First-principles calculations are performed to inspect the electronic and transport properties of a Fe-thiacrown molecular device, namely, a Au-Fe(9S3)2-Au junction. It is found that the junction has a low-spin (LS) ground state and a high-spin (HS) metastable state. Further study shows that the HS state is a conducting state while the LS state is a nearly insulating one, which means that a switch between these two spin configurations results in a good electrical switching behavior and can serve as an ON/OFF state for a logic unit. Thus, it may find applications as switches or memories in molecular electronic circuits.
An analysis of lead-free (Bi0.5Na0.5)0.915-(Bi0.5K0.5)0.05Ba0.02Sr0.015TiO3 ceramic for efficient refrigeration and thermal energy harvesting
Authors: Vats Gaurav , Vaish Rahul , Bowen Chris R.
Published: January 2014

This article demonstrates the colossal energy harvesting capability of a lead-free (Bi0.5Na0.5)0.915-(Bi0.5K0.5)0.05Ba0.02Sr0.015TiO3 ceramic using the Olsen cycle. The maximum harvestable energy density estimated for this system is found to be 1523 J/L (1523 kJ/m3) where the results are presented for extreme ambient conditions of 20–160 °C and electric fields of 0.1–4 MV/m. This estimated energy density is 1.7 times higher than the maximum reported to date for the lanthanum-doped lead zirconate titanate (thin film) system. Moreover, this study introduces a generalized and effective solid state refrigeration cycle in contrast to the ferroelectric Ericson refrigeration cycle. The cycle is based on a temperature induced polarization change on application of an unipolar electric field to ferroelectric ceramics.
Electronic and optical properties of Ga3−xIn5+xSn2O16: An experimental and theoretical study
Authors: Dolgonos Alex , Lam Kanber , Poeppelmeier Kenneth R. , Freeman Arthur J. , Mason Thomas O.
Published: January 2014

Experimental measurements of optical and electronic properties and local-density approximation (LDA) calculations on polycrystalline Ga3−xIn5+xSn2O16—the so-called “T-phase” in the Ga2O3-In2O3-SnO2 ternary system—have revealed it to be a good candidate for n-type transparent conducting oxide applications, particularly in the replacement of tin-doped indium oxide as a transparent electrode in organic photovoltaics. Room temperature conductivity of over 1000 S cm−1 was measured in polycrystalline bulk samples. Band structure calculations reveal a highly dispersed conduction band, corresponding to an electron effective mass of about 0.2 me. Normalized carrier mobility and concentration trends indicate that conductivity changes in T-phase are attributable to changes in carrier concentration, with mobility remaining relatively constant through the range of processing conditions and sample composition. Screened exchange LDA calculations yield a fundamental band gap of about 2.60 eV. A relatively constant optical band gap in the range of 2.9–3.0 eV along the range of T-phase composition was measured by diffuse reflectance of bulk samples, whereas ab-initio simulations predict a decreasing fundamental band gap with increasing In-to-Ga ratio. This is attributed to an increasing Burstein-Moss shift—corresponding to increasing free electron concentration—with increasing In-to-Ga ratio.
A unique squalenoylated and nonpegylated doxorubicin nanomedicine with systemic long-circulating properties and anticancer activity
Authors: Maksimenko Andrei , Dosio Franco , Mougin Julie , Ferrero Annalisa , Wack Severine , Reddy L. Harivardhan , Weyn Andrée-Anne , Lepeltier Elise , Bourgaux Claudie , Stella Barbara , Cattel Luigi , Couvreur Patrick
Published: January 2014

Significance

We identified that the chemical linkage of the anticancer drug doxorubicin onto squalene, a natural lipid precursor of the cholesterol’s biosynthesis, led to the formation of squalenoyl doxorubicin nanoassemblies of 130-nm mean diameter, with an original “loop-train” structure. This unique nanomedicine demonstrates: (
i
) high drug payload, (
ii
) decreased toxicity of the coupled anticancer compound, (
iii
) improved therapeutic response, (
iv
) use of biocompatible transporter material, and (
v
) ease of preparation, all criteria that are not combined in the currently available nanodrugs. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that the squalenoylated doxorubicin nanoassemblies make tumor cells more sensitive to doxorubicin and reduce the cardiac toxicity.
Contactin-1 regulates myelination and nodal/paranodal domain organization in the central nervous system
Authors: Çolakoğlu Gülsen , Bergstrom-Tyrberg Ulrika , Berglund Erik O. , Ranscht Barbara
Published: January 2014

Significance

Myelin is a multilayered membrane sheath that encircles axons to enable rapid information processing and protect neurons. Formation of myelin requires communication between axons and oligodendrocytes, the myelin-forming cells in the CNS. Here we identify Contactin-1 as a critical signal for axon–glia communication in CNS myelin. Gene ablation in mice shows that Contactin-1 is necessary for myelin sheath formation by oligodendrocytes and establishment of paranodal axoglial junctions that regulate the domain organization and enable rapid nerve impulse conduction of myelinated nerves. The multiple and critical aspects of Contactin-1 in central myelin formation identified in the current study will guide novel approaches aimed at enhancing regeneration in demyelinating diseases that specifically affect the CNS.
A review of pain management in equine practice.
Authors: Bentz B. G.
Published: January 2014

The purpose of this report is to review the current approaches to pain management available for use in equine practice. A review of the drug classes is provided with a practical description of the methods of administration and applications of their use.
Cisgenesis: a modern way of domesticating traits of the breeders' gene pool.
Authors: Jacobsen E.
Published: January 2014

Plant breeding is a multidisciplinary scientific activity with tool development as driving force. It is clear from history that availability of genetic variation and selection methods are bottom lines for variety development. The genetic source of traditional plant breeding is restricted to domestication of traits from the so-called 'breeders' gene pool', consisting of crossable sources. Gene cloning and genetic transformation broaden the available genetic variation to genes from all living organisms. The so-called new genes in genetically modified organism (GMO) plants, consist of transgenes, with (chimaeric) genes from outside the 'breeder's gene pool'. Transgenic plants needed additional biosafety rules such as Directive 2001/18EC. However, these are not needed after transformation of the four
rol
-genes from wild-type
Agrobacterium rhizogenes
. In the meantime, cloned cisgenes, natural dominant genes from 'breeders' gene pool', are available, enabling cisgenic crops after marker-free transformation, which extends plant breeding with traditional traits. From long-term experience, it is clear that traditional breeding with the 'breeders' gene pool' has a history of safe use. Different scientific committees concluded that cisgenic crops are as safe as traditionally bred varieties. So, cisgenesis is a powerful new tool for plant breeding with traditional traits as indicated in the potential examples on: (1) breeding for durable resistance to potato late blight and apple scab by
R
-gene stacking; (2) the new possibility to come to stacking of monogenic resistance alleles in wheat; (3) engineering of restoration of cytoplasmic male sterility by cloned restorer genes and of altering gametophytic incompatibility by introducing additional
S
-alleles; (4) increasing phytase activity by gene dosage effect in barley; and (5) the possibility of changing hormone metabolism in (fruit) trees leading to important morphological alterations. In near future, because of availability of many more cisgenes, it is expected that the possibilities of cisgenesis will increase rapidly as the next step in plant breeding with traditional traits, if treatment as non-GMO is approved.
Local caspase activation interacts with Slit-Robo signaling to restrict axonal arborization
Authors: Campbell Douglas S. , Okamoto Hitoshi
Published: January 2014

In addition to being critical for apoptosis, components of the apoptotic pathway, such as caspases, are involved in other physiological processes in many types of cells, including neurons. However, very little is known about their role in dynamic, nonphysically destructive processes, such as axonal arborization and synaptogenesis. We show that caspases were locally active in vivo at the branch points of young, dynamic retinal ganglion cell axonal arbors but not in the cell body or in stable mature arbors. Caspase activation, dependent on Caspase-3, Caspase-9, and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), rapidly increased at branch points corresponding with branch tip addition. Time-lapse imaging revealed that knockdown of Caspase-3 and Caspase-9 led to more stable arbors and presynaptic sites. Genetic analysis showed that Caspase-3, Caspase-9, and p38 MAPK interacted with Slit1a-Robo2 signaling, suggesting that localized activation of caspases lie downstream of a ligand receptor system, acting as key promoters of axonal branch tip and synaptic dynamics to restrict arbor growth in vivo in the central nervous system.
The association of microtubules with tight junctions is promoted by cingulin phosphorylation by AMPK
Authors: Yano Tomoki , Matsui Takeshi , Tamura Atsushi , Uji Masami , Tsukita Sachiko
Published: January 2014

Epithelial cells characteristically have noncentrosomal microtubules that are arranged in the apicobasal direction. In this paper, we examined cell sheets formed by an epithelial (Eph4) cell line by structure illumination microscopy and found a previously not clearly described planar apical network of noncentrosomal microtubules (MTs) in which the sides of the MT bundles were associated with tight junctions (TJs). In a gel overlay assay with taxol-stabilized MTs, cingulin showed strong binding to MTs, and a domain analysis showed that this binding occurred through cingulin’s N-terminal region. The association of planar apical MTs with TJs was compromised by cingulin knockdown (KD) or the expression of dephosphomimetic mutants of cingulin at its adenosine monophosphate–activated protein kinase (AMPK) target sites, whereas phosphorylation at these sites facilitated cingulin–tubulin binding. In addition, although wild-type colonies formed spheres in 3D culture, the cingulin KD cells had anisotropic shapes. These findings collectively suggest that the regulated cingulin–MT association has a specific role in TJ-related epithelial morphogenesis that is sensitive to metabolic homeostasis-related AMPK activity.
Marilyn Farquhar: From the beginning
Authors: Sedwick Caitlin
Published: January 2014

Farquhar studies cellular secretion, endocytosis, and podocytes in the kidney.
The Potyviridae Cylindrical Inclusion Helicase: A Key Multipartner and Multifunctional Protein
Authors: Sorel M. , Garcia J. A. , German-Retana S.
Published: January 2014

A unique feature shared by all plant viruses of the Potyviridae family is the induction of characteristic pinwheel-shaped inclusion bodies in the cytoplasm of infected cells. These cylindrical inclusions are composed of the viral-encoded cylindrical inclusion helicase (CI protein). Its helicase activity was characterized and its involvement in replication demonstrated through different reverse genetics approaches. In addition to replication, the CI protein is also involved in cell-to-cell and long-distance movements, possibly through interactions with the recently discovered viral P3N-PIPO protein. Studies over the past two decades demonstrate that the CI protein is present in several cellular compartments interacting with viral and plant protein partners likely involved in its various roles in different steps of viral infection. Furthermore, the CI protein acts as an avirulence factor in gene-for-gene interactions with dominant-resistance host genes and as a recessive-resistance overcoming factor. Although a significant amount of data concerning the potential functions and subcellular localization of this protein has been published, no synthetic review is available on this important multifunctional protein. In this review, we compile and integrate all information relevant to the current understanding of this viral protein structure and function and present a mode of action for CI, combining replication and movement.
Resistance and Tolerance of Landrace Wheat in Fields Infested with Pratylenchus neglectus and P. thornei
Authors: Smiley Richard W. , Gourlie Jennifer A. , Yan Guiping , Rhinhart Karl E. L.
Published: January 2014

Pratylenchus neglectus and P. thornei reduce wheat yields in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. Resistant landrace cultivars have been identified using controlled environments. Field resistance and tolerance characteristics were compared over 3 years and two locations for four spring wheat cultivars: the susceptible ‘Alpowa’ and ‘Louise’ and the resistant landraces AUS28451 and Persia 20. Proportions and densities of P. neglectus and P. thornei differed across seasons and locations. Resistance was evaluated by comparing preplant and postharvest densities of nematodes in soil. Tolerance was evaluated by comparing grain yield and grain quality in plots treated or untreated by the nematicide aldicarb. Alpowa was susceptible and intolerant, Louise was susceptible and moderately tolerant, AUS28451 was resistant and intolerant, and Persia 20 was moderately susceptible and moderately intolerant. The species dominance shifted from P. neglectus to P. thornei in one field over a period of 3 years in apparent response to cultivars and crops planted. Estimates of economic loss caused by Pratylenchus spp. ranged from $8 to $20/ha. Economic benefits appear to be achievable by developing a spring wheat genotype with tolerance plus resistance, such as with a cross between AUS28451 and Louise.
A small heat-shock protein (Hsp20) regulated by RpoS is essential for cyst desiccation resistance in Azotobacter vinelandii
Authors: Cocotl-Yañez Miguel , Moreno Soledad , Encarnación Sergio , López-Pliego Liliana , Castañeda Miguel , Espín Guadalupe
Published: January 2014

InAzotobacter vinelandii, a cyst-forming bacterium, the alternative sigma factor RpoS is essential to the formation of cysts resistant to desiccation and to synthesis of the cyst-specific lipids, alkylresorcinols. In this study, we carried out a proteome analysis of vegetative cells and cysts ofA. vinelandiistrain AEIV and itsrpoSmutant derivative AErpoS. This analysis allowed us to identify a small heat-shock protein, Hsp20, as one of the most abundant proteins of cysts regulated by RpoS. Inactivation ofhsp20did not affect the synthesis of alkylresorcinols or the formation of cysts with WT morphology; however, the cysts formed by thehsp20mutant strain were unable to resist desiccation. We also demonstrated that expression ofhsp20from an RpoS-independent promoter in the AErpoS mutant strain is not enough to restore the phenotype of resistance to desiccation. These results indicate that Hsp20 is essential for the resistance to desiccation ofA. vinelandiicysts, probably by preventing the aggregation of proteins caused by the lack of water. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a small heat-shock protein that is essential for desiccation resistance in bacteria.
Bovine herpesvirus 5 encodes a unique pattern of microRNAs compared with bovine herpesvirus 1
Authors: Tang Qi , Wu Yi-Quan , Chen Dong-Sheng , Zhou Qing , Chen Huan-Chun , Liu Zheng-Fei
Published: January 2014

Bovine herpesvirus type 5 (BoHV-5) and bovine herpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1) are two closely related viruses. However, BoHV-5 is responsible for fatal meningitis in calves, while BoHV-1 is associated with infectious rhinotracheitis in cattle, and the mechanism by which the two viruses cause different symptoms is not well understood. In this study, we identified 11 microRNA (miRNA) genes, encoded by the BoHV-5 genome, that were processed into 16 detectable mature miRNAs in productive infection as determined by deep sequencing. We found that 6 out of 16 miRNA genes were present as two copies in the internal repeat and terminal repeat regions, resulting in a total of 17 miRNA-encoding loci distributed in both DNA strands. Surprisingly, BoHV-5 shared only one conservative miRNA with BoHV-1, which was located upstream of the origin of replication. Furthermore, in contrast to BoHV-1, no miRNAs were detected in the unique short region and locus within or near the bovine infected-cell protein 0 and latency-related genes. Variations in both the 5′ and 3′ ends of the reference sequence were observed, resulting in more than one isoform for each miRNA. All of the 16 miRNAs were detectable by stem–loop reverse transcriptase-PCR. The miRNAs with high read numbers were subjected to Northern blot analysis, and all pre-miRNAs and one mature miRNA were detected. Collectively, the data suggest that BoHV-5 encodes a different pattern of miRNAs, which may regulate the life cycle of BoHV-5 and might account for the different pathogenesis of this virus compared with BoHV-1.
1-Carboxynaphthalen-2-yl acetate monohydrate
Authors: Souza Bruno S. , Bortoluzzi Adailton J. , Nome Faruk
Published: January 2014

In the title compound, C13H10O4·H2O, both the carboxylic acid [Car—Car—C—O = −121.1 (2)°, where ar = aromatic] and the ester [Car—Car—O—C = −104.4 (3)°] groups lie out of the mean plane of the conjugated aromatic system. In the crystal, the organic molecule is hydrogen bonded to water molecules through the ester and carboxy moieties, forming chains along thea-axis direction. The methyl H atoms of the acetoxy group are disordered over two equally occupied sites.
Probabilistic and spatially variable niches inferred from demography
Authors: Diez Jeffrey M. , Giladi Itamar , Warren Robert , Pulliam H. Ronald
Published: January 2014

Mismatches between species distributions and habitat suitability are predicted by niche theory and have important implications for forecasting how species may respond to environmental changes. Quantifying these mismatches is challenging, however, due to the high dimensionality of species niches and the large spatial and temporal variability in population dynamics.

Here, we explore how probabilistic assessments of habitat suitability based on demographic models may be used to better bridge niche theory and population dynamics. We use integral projection models (IPMs) to predict population growth rates for a terrestrial orchid in response to environmental variables. By parameterizing these IPMs with hierarchical models, we develop a spatially variable measure of a species' demographic niche, which can then be compared against its distribution to test ideas about what factors control a species' distribution.

We found that demographic suitability of sites was not well correlated with the orchid's distribution at local scales, with many absences from microsites of high predicted suitability and occurrences in sites with low predicted suitability. However, at the population scale, abundance was positively correlated with demographic suitability of the sites. These results are consistent with dispersal limitation and source–sink dynamics at small scales but stronger distribution‐suitability matching at larger landscape scales.

Synthesis. The relationships between species distributions and demographic performance underlie basic niche theory and have important implications for predicting responses to a changing environment. The complexities of these relationships will require approaches that can encapsulate what we know in probabilistic terms and allow for spatially varying niche relationships.
Progression from impaired fasting glucose to type 2 diabetes mellitus among Chinese subjects with and without hypertension in a primary care setting 在中国初级保健机构中合并以及不合并高血压的受试者从空腹血糖受损进展到2型糖尿病的调查
Authors: Fu Sau Nga , Luk Wan , Wong Carlos King Ho , Cheung Kwok Leung
Published: January 2014

Background

The progression from impaired fasting glucose (IFG) to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Chinese subjects, with and without hypertension, in a primary care setting was unknown.

Methods

The present retrospective multicenter 5‐year (2002–2007) cohort study was performed on IFG subjects attending 23 general outpatient clinics who were identified by their elevated fasting blood glucose laboratory results. Development of T2DM was determined by physician diagnosis of T2DM or starting of oral antidiabetic drugs within 5 years. The relationship between the time of T2DM diagnosis and subject characteristics was assessed by adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) from Cox hazards model.

Results

Of the 9161 IFG subjects, 4080 (45%) were men and 5081 (55%) were women. There were 1998 subjects who developed T2DM. The 5‐year cumulative incidence was 0.218, whereas the overall annual incidence rate was 5.981/100 person‐years. Subjects were more likely to develop T2DM if they were hypertensive (aHR = 1.44; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.28–1.62; P < 0.001), aged <60 years (aHR = 1.36, 95% CI 1.24–1.49; P < 0.001), female (aHR = 1.18, 95% CI 1.08–1.29; P < 0.001), and had higher fasting glucose levels (6.39 ± 0.49 vs 6.24 ± 0.43 mmol/L in the group that developed T2DM vs the group without T2DM, respectively; aHR = 2.01, 95% CI 1.83–2.20; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Overall, more than one‐fifth of IFG subjects in the primary care setting developed T2DM within 5 years. Health care professionals can target interventions to patients with risk factors for disease progression.
Blood glucose‐lowering effect of Tectona grandis flowers in type 2 diabetic rats: A study on identification of active constituents and mechanisms for antidiabetic action 柚木花对2型糖尿病大鼠的降糖作用：一项鉴定其活性成份与降糖作用机制的研究
Authors: Ramachandran Subramaniam , Rajasekaran Aiyalu
Published: January 2014

Background

Ayurveda documents antidiabetic activity of Tectona grandis flowers. However, until now, the effects of T. grandis flowers in preclinical models of type 2 diabetes (T2D) have been unknown. Hence, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the blood glucose‐lowering effect of methanol extract of T. grandis flowers (METGF) in T2D rats and to identify possible active constituents as well as the mechanisms for the antidiabetic action.

Methods

Rats were rendered diabetic by administration of streptozotocin–nicotinamide (65 mg/kg–110 mg/kg, i.p.). After the induction of diabetes, Groups 3 and 4 received METGF (100 and 200 mg/kg respectively) while Group 5 received glibenclamide (5 mg/kg) orally for 4 weeks. Blood glucose and body weight were determined at the end of Weeks 2 and 4. Hemoglobin, HbA1c, total protein, urea, creatinine, insulin, and lipid levels were determined in Week 4. Active constituents in METGF were identified using HPLC analysis. Antidiabetic mechanisms of METGF were evaluated by investigating the insulin sensitizing action and inhibition of α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase activity.

Results

Both METGF and glibenclamide significantly improved body weight, reduced blood glucose, and normalized altered biochemical parameters (P < 0.001) in T2D rats. The presence of polyphenolic active constituents, such as gallic acid, quercetin, rutin, ellagic acid, ferulic acid, and kaempferol, in METGF was confirmed by HPLC. In vitro, METGF, gallic acid, quercetin, and rutin exhibited significant (P < 0.001) insulin sensitizing action and inhibition of α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase activity.

Conclusions

Polyphenolic active constituents present in METGF are possibly responsible for the blood glucose‐lowering effect in T2D rats via an insulin‐sensitizing action, as well as inhibition of α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase activity.
Effects of electrocardiogram gating on CT pulmonary angiography image quality
Authors: Ardley Nicholas D , Lau Ken K , Buchan Kevin , Paul Eldho , Troupis John M
Published: January 2014

Introduction

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is the third most common cause of death from cardiovascular disease. Computed‐tomographic pulmonary angiography (CTPA) is an accurate and safe test for diagnosing PE. The aim of this retrospective analysis was to evaluate the effects on image quality (IQ) of electrocardiogram (ECG) gating during CTPA.

Methods

Fifty consecutive patients presenting for CTPA were included in the study. A single acquisition was performed, resulting in two reconstructions: one at 75% of the R–R interval and the other without ECG influence. IQ evaluation was undertaken by two radiologists, focusing on respiratory and cardiac motion, image noise, low‐contrast resolution, vessel and lung clarity, contrast media opacification and artefacts. Various regions of the lungs and vasculature were evaluated, and IQ scores were statistically compared.

Results

For the ECG‐tagged reconstructions, IQ was noted to be better overall with regard to vessel clarity (P < 0.05) and cardiac motion (P < 0.05), while lung clarity was better only in the left lower zone (P < 0.05). IQ was better with regard to image noise (P < 0.05) and low‐contrast resolution (P < 0.05) in the non‐ECG‐tagged reconstructions. No statistical IQ difference between the two types of reconstruction was noted with regard to respiratory motion, contrast media opacification or presence of artefacts.

Conclusion

The two types of reconstruction provide complementary information for evaluating CTPA results.
Long‐term survival for 93 months of limited‐stage small cell lung cancer: A case report and literature review
Authors: Zhong Yujie , Zhang Qiuhong , Deng Wenjing , Zhang Yuping , Ming Zongjuan , Hou Yanli , Niu Zequn , Yang Shuanying
Published: January 2014

A 49‐year‐old man was diagnosed with small cell lung cancer in May 2005. Chemotherapy was started with 60 mg/day cisplatin iv drip (from days one to three), 2 mg topotecan (TP) hydrochloride iv drip (from days one to four), and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) AiDi injection for anti‐tumor. After four cycles, he underwent conformal radiotherapy with 56Gy/28 fractions in October 2005. In April 2006, a mass on the right supraclavicular area was found. Therefore, he underwent another course of radiotherapy. The fields included the right supraclavicular area and the radiation dose was 50Gy/25 fractions. After completion of chemoradiotherapy, the patient achieved complete remission. Subsequently, the patient received prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI). Until April of 2012, he had been followed up regularly. Since the SCLC diagnosis, he had received TCM for seven years. In April 2012, the patient complained of coughing again. Subsequently, the patient was given five cycles of an etoposide carboplatin regimen. A computed tomography (CT) scan was performed for review, which showed no obvious change. The patient underwent a second‐line chemotherapy irinotecan cisplatin three times. However, the symptoms and CT of this patient showed no significant improvement. We changed the chemotherapy regimen to TP (topotecan 1.2 mg iv drip, days one to five; carboplatin 100 mg iv drip, days one to five). After two TP regimens, the patient died in his sleep on 3 March 2013. In this case, the standardized sequential chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment, PCI, TCM, and good compliance may have contributed to the patient's longer survival.
Using the Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia (BACS) to assess cognitive impairment in older patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder
Authors: Cholet Jennyfer , Sauvaget Anne , Vanelle Jean‐Marie , Hommet Caroline , Mondon Karl , Mamet Jean‐Philippe , Camus Vincent
Published: January 2014

Objectives

A growing body of evidence suggests that impairment in cognitive functioning is an important clinical feature of both schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, and that these cognitive alterations worsen with age. Although cognitive assessments are increasingly becoming a part of research and clinical practice in schizophrenia, a standardized and easily administered test battery for elderly patients with bipolar disorder is still lacking. The Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia (BACS) captures those domains of cognition that are the most severely affected in patients with schizophrenia and the most strongly correlated with functional outcome. The primary aim of our study was to investigate the clinical usefulness of the BACS in assessing cognitive functioning in elderly euthymic patients with bipolar disorder, and to compare their cognitive profile to that of elderly patients with schizophrenia.

Methods

Elderly euthymic patients with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia were assessed using the BACS and a standard cognitive test battery.

Results

Fifty‐seven elderly patients (aged 60 years and older) with bipolar disorder (n = 42) or schizophrenia (n = 15) were invited to participate. All of the patients were assessed by the BACS as being cognitively impaired. The patients with bipolar disorder scored significantly higher on the global scale and the verbal memory and attention sub‐scores of the BACS than the patients with schizophrenia.

Discussion

The BACS appears to be a feasible and informative cognitive assessment tool for elderly patients with bipolar disorder. We believe that these preliminary results merit further investigation.
Neuroinflammation of the central and peripheral nervous system: an update
Authors: Stüve O , Zettl U
Published: January 2014

Inflammatory disorders of the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and central nervous system (CNS) are common, and contribute substantially to physical and emotional disability of affected individuals. Often, the afflicted are young and in their active years. In the past, physicians and scientists often had very little to offer in terms of diagnostic precision and therapeutic effectiveness. During the past two decades, both of these relative shortcomings have clearly improved. Some of the recent developments in clinical neuroimmunology are illustrated in this special edition of Clinical and Experimental Immunology.
The Overuse of the Implant Motor: Effect on the Output Torque in Overloading Condition
Authors: Lee Du‐Hyeong , Cho Sung‐Am , Lee Cheong‐Hee , Lee Kyu‐Bok
Published: January 2014

Background

The overloading of the motor affects its performance. The output torque of the implant motor under overloading condition has not been reported.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine the reliability and the tendency of the output torque when an implant motor is consecutively used.

Materials and Methods

Three implant motors were evaluated: SurgicXT/X‐SG20L (NSK), INTRAsurg300/CL3–09 (KaVo), and XIP10/CRB26LX (Saeshin). The output torque was measured using an electronic torque gauge fixed with jigs. For the 40 and 50 Ncm torque settings, 300 measurements were taken at 30 rpm. Repeated measures of analysis of variance (ANOVA) and one‐way ANOVA were used to compare the torque values within each group and between the groups.

Results

As repeating measures, the output torque values decreased gradually compared with the baseline. In within‐group analysis, the different torque value from the first measurement appeared earliest in NSK motor, followed in order by Saeshin and KaVo motors. NSK motor showed a different torque decrease between 40 and 50 Ncm settings (p < .05). Intergroup analysis revealed Saeshin motor to have the least deviation from the baseline, followed by KaVo motor. NSK motor had the most inconsistent torque at the 6, 8, 9, and 10 repeat counts (p < .05).

Conclusion

The actual torque decreases when the surgical motor is continuously used. The NSK motor showed more significant decreases in torque than KaVo and Saeshin motors in overloading condition.
Marginal bone response of implants with platform switching and non‐platform switching abutments in posterior healed sites: a 1‐year prospective study
Authors: Wang Yun‐Chi , Kan Joseph Y. K. , Rungcharassaeng Kitichai , Roe Phillip , Lozada Jaime L.
Published: January 2014

Objectives

This 1‐year prospective study evaluated the implant success rate and marginal bone response of non‐submerged implants with platform and non‐platform switching abutments in posterior healed sites.

Material and methods

Nineteen patients (9 male, 10 female) with posterior partially edentulous spaces, between the ages of 23 and 76 (mean = 55.4 years), were included in this study. A total of 30 implants (15 implants restored with platform switching [PS] abutments [control] and 15 implants restored with non‐platform switching [NPS] abutments [test]) were assigned between two groups using a randomization procedure. The definitive abutments with conical connections were placed at the time of surgery, and the definitive restorations were placed at 3 months. All patients were evaluated clinically and radiographically using standardized radiographs at time of implant placement (0), 3, 6 and 12 months after implant placement. Data were analyzed using Friedman test with post hoc pairwise comparisons, Mann–Whitney U‐test, and Pearson's chi‐square test at the significance level of α = 0.05.

Results

At 12 months, all 30 implants remained osseointegrated corresponding to a 100% success rate. The overall mean marginal bone level change at 12 months was −0.04 ± 0.08 mm for PS group and −0.19 ± 0.16 mm for NPS group. Statistically significant difference in the marginal bone level change was observed between groups at 0 to 12 months and 3 to 12 months (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

This 1‐year randomized control study suggests that when a conical implant–abutment connection is present, similar peri‐implant tissue responses can be achieved with platform switching and non‐platform switching abutments.
Tailoring Strain Properties of (0.94−x)Bi1/2Na1/2TiO3–0.06BaTiO3–xK0.5Na0.5NbO3 Ferroelectric/Relaxor Composites
Authors: Groh Claudia , Jo Wook , Rödel Jürgen
Published: January 2014

A remarkable progress in the quest of lead‐free piezoceramics for actuator applications has been made with the development of incipient piezoceramics featured by giant strains. A drawback, however, is the high electric field required to generate this giant strain. A powerful approach to overcoming this drawback lies in relaxor/ferroelectric (FE) composites comprised such giant strain materials (matrix) and a FE or nonergodic relaxor (seed). In this study, we investigate the effect of K0.5Na0.5NbO3 content in the matrix and the volume ratio of seed to matrix using composites of 0.93Bi1/2Na1/2TiO3–0.07BaTiO3 as a seed and (0.94 − x)Bi1/2Na1/2TiO3–0.06BaTiO3–xK0.5Na0.5NbO3 as a matrix. The strain of all matrices, independent of their K0.5Na0.5NbO3 content, was found to be enhanced by adding a certain amount of seed. An optimum strain is achieved for the composite comprised of a matrix with x = 0.02 K0.5Na0.5NbO3 and 10% seed. By means of a differential analysis on the temperature‐dependent dielectric permittivity, it was shown that the seed phase is still present in the composites despite the naturally expected diffusion process during sintering.
Direct Measurement of Fusion Enthalpy of LaAlO3 and Comparison of Energetics of Melt, Glass, and Amorphous Thin Films
Authors: Ushakov Sergey V. , Navrotsky Alexandra
Published: January 2014

Enthalpy of fusion and melting temperature of perovskite LaAlO3 were measured using thermal analysis method as 124 ± 10 kJ/mol at 2134 ± 10°C, providing a value of 52 ± 4 J·(mol·K)−1 for entropy of fusion. Crystallization enthalpy of amorphous LaAlO3 thin films was found to change from −24 to −17 kJ/mol with decrease in film thickness from 100 to 20 nm. Differences in energetics of amorphous LaAlO3 films and glass cannot be explained exclusively by surface energy contribution but must reflect differences in structure between films and glasses in this system.
Functional differences in mesenchymal stromal cells from human dental pulp and periodontal ligament
Authors: Vasandan Anoop Babu , Shankar Shilpa Rani , Prasad Priya , Sowmya Jahnavi Vulugundam , Bhonde Ramesh Ramachandra , Jyothi Prasanna Susarla
Published: January 2014

Clinically reported reparative benefits of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are majorly attributed to strong immune‐modulatory abilities not exactly shared by fibroblasts. However, MSCs remain heterogeneous populations, with unique tissue‐specific subsets, and lack of clear‐cut assays defining therapeutic stromal subsets adds further ambiguity to the field. In this context, in‐depth evaluation of cellular characteristics of MSCs from proximal oro‐facial tissues: dental pulp (DPSCs) and periodontal ligament (PDLSCs) from identical donors provides an opportunity to evaluate exclusive niche‐specific influences on multipotency and immune‐modulation. Exhaustive cell surface profiling of DPSCs and PDLSCs indicated key differences in expression of mesenchymal (CD105) and pluripotent/multipotent stem cell–associated cell surface antigens: SSEA4, CD117, CD123 and CD29. DPSCs and PDLSCs exhibited strong chondrogenic potential, but only DPSCs exhibited adipogenic and osteogenic propensities. PDLSCs expressed immuno‐stimulatory/immune‐adhesive ligands like HLA‐DR and CD50, upon priming with IFNγ, unlike DPSCs, indicating differential response patterns to pro‐inflammatory cytokines. Both DPSCs and PDLSCs were hypo‐immunogenic and did not elicit robust allogeneic responses despite exposure to IFNγ or TNFα. Interestingly, only DPSCs attenuated mitogen‐induced lympho‐proliferative responses and priming with either IFNγ or TNFα enhanced immuno‐modulation capacity. In contrast, primed or unprimed PDLSCs lacked the ability to suppress polyclonal T cell blast responses. This study indicates that stromal cells from even topographically related tissues do not necessarily share identical MSC properties and emphasizes the need for a thorough functional testing of MSCs from diverse sources with respect to multipotency, immune parameters and response to pro‐inflammatory cytokines before translational usage.