bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Application of 3D Photogrammetry for In-Field Documentation of Archaeological Features
Authors: Douglass Matthew , Lin Sam , Chodoronek Michael
Published: May 2015

The logistics of time-efficient yet accurate documentation of archaeological features are a challenge within the context of pedestrian survey. Here we present results of two case studies documenting the use of photogrammetry under field conditions within the Great Plains. Results demonstrate the ease with which high quality models can be obtained with minimal training and by using standard field cameras and computers. Different models of pit hearth and architectural features are presented to demonstrate the versatility of model output formats in terms of their accessibility to broad audiences and the variety of display options available. Comparison with more traditional field measurements indicates the suitability and superiority of this approach in terms of time investment and mapping detail and accuracy. Combined, these efforts demonstrate the potential of this technique to be incorporated into the standard practices of academic and professional field projects with minimal interruption.
Poetic Objects or Open Data? Challenges and Changes to Contemporary MA programmes in Audio-Visual Archiving, Preservation and Presentation
Authors: de Valck Marijke
Published: May 2015

This article describes the rise of MA programmes in audio-visual archiving, preservation and presentation. It distinguishes between two key developments that are transforming the contemporary graduation education in AV heritage: digital developments that significantly impact the professional field, and new governance structures that comprise a (forced) move away from film studies as disciplinary home. It is the latter, this article argues, that poses the real threat for the future of professional education in preservation and presentation of moving images.
The Recalcitrant Discipline
Authors: Frey Mattias
Published: May 2015

This article addresses the current state of film studies as a discipline, profession and institution, arguing that the hunt for cultural authority has been the defining feature, motivating force and tragic flaw of film studies. The current self-reflexive soul- searching reveals that the field – no longer a radical upstart – still lacks the gravitas of more established subjects. Departments have responded to identity crises and changing enrolment patterns by mummifying, killing off or burying foundational emphases. The nostalgia for film studies origins and the jeremiads about an unmanageable, unruly and recalcitrant discipline yield rose-tinted fantasies about community and mutual intelligibility that must be ultimately resisted.
Presentism and Eurocentricity in Cinema Studies: Material and Theoretical Constrictions
Authors: Martin-Márquez Susan
Published: May 2015

In recent decades, scholars in a variety of humanities fields have thoroughly interrogated the ways in which established critical practices and theoretical frameworks have reproduced paradigms of coloniality. Yet cinema studies lags in this initiative. This article examines how presentist tendencies in particular have contributed to the ongoing Eurocentrism of academic work on film, by focusing on the acute challenges of film preservation and access, and the persistent sway of French theory.
New Cinemas: Film and Digital Media
Authors: Navarro Vinicius
Published: May 2015

This article looks at contemporary film scholarship in order to address one of the disciplines pressing questions: the place of cinema in a context of rapid technological change. Rather than simply focus on technology, however, the article calls for a broad set of criteria to define what counts as cinema today. In particular, it revisits the concept of expanded cinema and treats filmmaking as an event that combines the contexts of production and reception. Finally, the article insists on the relevance of film studies as a field that will continue to lead the debate on moving image media.
Chrono-Urbanism and Single-Night Narratives in Film
Authors: Straw Will
Published: May 2015

This article examines fictional film narratives from the perspectives of a chrono-urbanism, concerned with the ways in which cinema maps the unfolding of time in cities. It examines how films treat the urban night – as territory, as one side of a boundary, as a substance which falls upon the city. These treatments are explored by examining a limited corpus of single-night narratives, films whose narratives unfold over a single night. Drawing on a variety of recent texts that trace the history of the night in cities, this article distinguishes between different narrative patterns within which the urban night unfolds and becomes meaningful.
Revisiting Waterloo Bridge: Censorship, Representation, Adaptation and the Persisting Myth of Pre-Code Hollywood
Authors: Neale Steve
Published: May 2015

This article deals with the issues of censorship, adaptation and representation at stake in the 1931 and 1940 versions of Waterloo Bridge, both of which were based on a 1929 stage play. In doing so it examines the representation of female prostitution and the extent to which the trope of the fallen woman is evoked. Contesting the notion of Pre-Code films, it also examines the impact of the 1930 Production Code, the modifications to its implementation in 1934, the ways in which censorable words and actions were handled in the 1931 and 1940 versions, and the extent to which class became a major factor.
A conserved histidine modulates HSPB5 structure to trigger chaperone activity in response to stress-related acidosis
Authors: Rajagopal Ponni , Tse Eric , Borst Andrew J , Delbecq Scott P , Shi Lei , Southworth Daniel R , Klevit Rachel E
Published: May 2015

Small heat shock proteins (sHSPs) are essential ‘holdase’ chaperones that form large assemblies and respond dynamically to pH and temperature stresses to protect client proteins from aggregation. While the alpha-crystallin domain (ACD) dimer of sHSPs is the universal building block, how the ACD transmits structural changes in response to stress to promote holdase activity is unknown. We found that the dimer interface of HSPB5 is destabilized over physiological pHs and a conserved histidine (His-104) controls interface stability and oligomer structure in response to acidosis. Destabilization by pH or His-104 mutation shifts the ACD from dimer to monomer but also results in a large expansion of HSPB5 oligomer states. Remarkably, His-104 mutant-destabilized oligomers are efficient holdases that reorganize into structurally distinct client–bound complexes. Our data support a model for sHSP function wherein cell stress triggers small perturbations that alter the ACD building blocks to unleash a cryptic mode of chaperone action.
Efficient Statistical Extraction of the Per-Unit-Length Capacitance and Inductance Matrices of Cables with Random Parameters
Authors: Manfredi P. , Canavero F.
Published: May 2015

Cable bundles often exhibit random parameter variations due to uncertain or uncontrollable physical properties and wire positioning. Efficient tools, based on the so-called polynomial chaos, exist to rapidly assess the impact of such variations on the per-unit-length capacitance and inductance matrices, and on the pertinent cable response. Nevertheless, the state-of-the-art method for the statistical extraction of the per-unit-length capacitance and inductance matrices of cables suffers from several inefficiencies that hinder its applicability to large problems, in terms of number of random parameters and/or conductors. This paper presents an improved methodology that overcomes the aforementioned limitations by exploiting a recently-published, alternative approach to generate the pertinent polynomial chaos system of equations. A sparse and decoupled system is obtained that provides remarkable benefits in terms of speed, memory consumption and problem size that can be dealt with. The technique is thoroughly validated through the statistical analysis of two canonical structures, i.e. a ribbon cable and a shielded cable with random geometry and position.
Global patterns and controls of soil organic carbon dynamics as simulated by multiple terrestrial biosphere models: Current status and future directions
Authors: Tian Hanqin , Lu Chaoqun , Yang Jia , Banger Kamaljit , Huntzinger Deborah N. , Schwalm Christopher R. , Michalak Anna M. , Cook Robert , Ciais Philippe , Hayes Daniel , Huang Maoyi , Ito Akihiko , Jain Atul K. , Lei Huimin , Mao Jiafu , Pan Shufen , Post Wilfred M. , Peng Shushi , Poulter Benjamin , Ren Wei , Ricciuto Daniel , Schaefer Kevin , Shi Xiaoying , Tao Bo , Wang Weile , Wei Yaxing , Yang Qichun , Zhang Bowen , Zeng Ning
Published: May 2015

Soil is the largest organic carbon (C) pool of terrestrial ecosystems, and C loss from soil accounts for a large proportion of land‐atmosphere C exchange. Therefore, a small change in soil organic C (SOC) can affect atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration and climate change. In the past decades, a wide variety of studies have been conducted to quantify global SOC stocks and soil C exchange with the atmosphere through site measurements, inventories, and empirical/process‐based modeling. However, these estimates are highly uncertain, and identifying major driving forces controlling soil C dynamics remains a key research challenge. This study has compiled century‐long (1901–2010) estimates of SOC storage and heterotrophic respiration (Rh) from 10 terrestrial biosphere models (TBMs) in the Multi‐scale Synthesis and Terrestrial Model Intercomparison Project and two observation‐based data sets. The 10 TBM ensemble shows that global SOC estimate ranges from 425 to 2111 Pg C (1 Pg = 1015 g) with a median value of 1158 Pg C in 2010. The models estimate a broad range of Rh from 35 to 69 Pg C yr−1 with a median value of 51 Pg C yr−1 during 2001–2010. The largest uncertainty in SOC stocks exists in the 40–65°N latitude whereas the largest cross‐model divergence in Rh are in the tropics. The modeled SOC change during 1901–2010 ranges from −70 Pg C to 86 Pg C, but in some models the SOC change has a different sign from the change of total C stock, implying very different contribution of vegetation and soil pools in determining the terrestrial C budget among models. The model ensemble‐estimated mean residence time of SOC shows a reduction of 3.4 years over the past century, which accelerate C cycling through the land biosphere. All the models agreed that climate and land use changes decreased SOC stocks, while elevated atmospheric CO2 and nitrogen deposition over intact ecosystems increased SOC stocks—even though the responses varied significantly among models. Model representations of temperature and moisture sensitivity, nutrient limitation, and land use partially explain the divergent estimates of global SOC stocks and soil C fluxes in this study. In addition, a major source of systematic error in model estimations relates to nonmodeled SOC storage in wetlands and peatlands, as well as to old C storage in deep soil layers.
Boulder dislodgement and transport by solitary waves: Insights from three‐dimensional numerical simulations
Authors: Zainali Amir , Weiss Robert
Published: May 2015

The analysis of boulder motion and dislodgement provides important insights into the physics of the causative processes, i.e., whether or not a boulder was moved during a storm or tsunami and the magnitude of the respective event. Previous studies were mainly based on simplified models and threshold considerations. We employ three‐dimensional numerical simulation of the hydrodynamics coupled with rigid body dynamics to study boulder dislodgement and transport by solitary waves. We explore the effects of three important nondimensional parameters on the boulder transport problem, the Froude number Fr, the aspect ratio in logarithmic scale α, and the submergence factor, β. Our results indicate that boulder motion is complex, and small changes in one of the nondimensional parameters result in significantly different behavior during the transport process and the final resting place of boulders. More studies are needed to determine the role of boulders in tsunami and storm hazard assessments.
Mechanism for normal faulting in the subducting plate at the Mariana Trench
Authors: Zhou Zhiyuan , Lin Jian , Behn Mark D. , Olive Jean‐Arthur
Published: May 2015

We investigate the mechanisms of normal fault initiation and evolution in the subducting Pacific Plate near the Mariana Trench, through bathymetry analysis and geodynamic modeling. We model the subducting plate as an elastoplastic slab subjected to tectonic forcing at the trench, including vertical load, bending moment, and horizontal tensional force. In our simulations, normal faults initiate within the outer rise region and reach maximum throw toward the trench. This result holds over a wide range of tectonic forcing and is consistent with observations of the Challenger Deep region, where multibeam bathymetry data indicate faults initiate near the outer rise at 70–110 km from the trench and reach maximum throw at 10–35 km from the trench. However, models require a horizontal tensional force with magnitude comparable to axial vertical load to jointly explain the observed seafloor bathymetry, location of maximum normal fault throw, and prevalence of normal faults dipping toward the trench.
Laboratory investigation of lunar surface electric potentials in magnetic anomaly regions
Authors: Howes C. T. , Wang X. , Deca J. , Horányi M.
Published: May 2015

To gain insight into lunar surface charging in the magnetic anomaly regions, we present the results of laboratory experiments with a flowing plasma engulfing a magnetic dipole field above an insulating surface. When the dipole moment is perpendicular to the surface, large positive potentials (close to ion flow energies in eV) are measured on the surface in the dipole lobe regions, charged by the unmagnetized ions while the electrons are magnetically excluded. The potential decreases exponentially with distance from the surface on the ion (flow) Debye length scale. The surface potentials become much smaller when the dipole moment is parallel to the surface, likely due to collisionality. We discuss the implications of our laboratory results for the lunar surface charging in the magnetic anomaly regions, suggesting that the surface potential may be much higher than the generally expected several volts positive due to photoemission.
New insights in the capability of climate models to simulate the impact of LUC based on temperature decomposition of paired site observations
Authors: Vanden Broucke Sam , Luyssaert Sebastiaan , Davin Edouard L. , Janssens Ivan , van Lipzig Nicole
Published: May 2015

In this study, we present a new methodology for evaluating the biogeophysical impact of land use change (LUC) in regional climate models. For this, we use observational data from paired eddy covariance flux towers in Europe, representing a LUC from forest to open land (deforestation). Two model simulations with the regional climate model COSMO‐CLM2 (The Consortium for Small‐Scale Modelling model in climate mode COSMO‐CLM coupled to the Community Land Model CLM) are performed which differ only in prescribed land use for site pair locations. The model is evaluated by comparing the observed and simulated difference in surface temperature (Ts) between open land and forests. Next, we identify the biogeophysical mechanisms responsible for Ts differences by applying a decomposition method to both observations and model simulations. This allows us to determine which LUC‐related mechanisms were well represented in COSMO‐CLM2, and which were not. Results from observations show that deforestation leads to a significant cooling at night, which is severely underestimated by COSMO‐CLM2. It appears that the model is missing one crucial impact of deforestation on the nighttime surface energy budget: a reduction in downwelling longwave radiation. Results are better for daytime, as the model is able to simulate the increase in albedo and associated surface cooling following deforestation reasonably well. Also well simulated, albeit underestimated slightly, is the decrease in sensible heat flux caused by reduced surface roughness. Overall, these results stress the importance of differentiating between daytime and nighttime climate when discussing the effect of LUC on climate. Finally, we believe that they provide new insights supporting a wider application of the methodology (to other regional climate models).
Preparation of 2‐(dimethylamino) ethyl methacrylate copolymer micelles for shape memory materials
Authors: Yang Yan , Mo Funian , Chen Yangyang , Liu Yingyi , Chen Shaojun , Zuo Jiandong
Published: May 2015

Researchers are actively developing shape memory polymers (SMPs) for smart biomaterials. This paper reports a new SMP system synthesized from biocompatible 2‐(dimethylamino) ethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA), butyl acrylate (BA) and tri(ethylene glycol) divinyl ether (TDE). Preliminary results show that the DMAEMA‐co‐BA‐co‐TDE copolymers form micelles in aqueous solution due to chemical crosslinking and hydrophobicity. The micelle size decreased with the increase in the BA content since the hydrophobicity of copolymers increases with the increase of BA content. The resulting polymer films contain–N(CH3)2 functional groups for further biomaterial applications. The thermal stability of DMAEMA‐co‐BA‐co‐TDE copolymers is determined by the DMAEMA structure and content. Moreover, the copolymers form micro‐phase‐separated structures containing a reversible amorphous soft phase, and the storage moduli decreases significantly around Tg. Therefore, good thermal‐induced shape memory effects are achieved in the DMAEMA‐co‐BA‐co‐TDE copolymers by adjusting the BA content. This work proposes a new strategy for designing smart biomaterials using a biocompatible monomer. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42312.
New Interview and Observation Measures of the Broader Autism Phenotype: Description of Strategy and Reliability Findings for the Interview Measures
Authors: Parr Jeremy R. , De Jonge Maretha V. , Wallace Simon , Pickles Andrew , Rutter Michael L. , Le Couteur Ann S. , van Engeland Herman , Wittemeyer Kerstin , McConachie Helen , Roge Bernadette , Mantoulan Carine , Pedersen Lennart , Isager Torben , Poustka Fritz , Bolte Sven , Bolton Patrick , Weisblatt Emma , Green Jonathan , Papanikolaou Katerina , Baird Gillian , Bailey Anthony J.
Published: May 2015

Clinical genetic studies confirm the broader autism phenotype (BAP) in some relatives of individuals with autism, but there are few standardized assessment measures. We developed three BAP measures (informant interview, self‐report interview, and impression of interviewee observational scale) and describe the development strategy and findings from the interviews. International Molecular Genetic Study of Autism Consortium data were collected from families containing at least two individuals with autism. Comparison of the informant and self‐report interviews was restricted to samples in which the interviews were undertaken by different researchers from that site (251 UK informants, 119 from the Netherlands). Researchers produced vignettes that were rated blind by others. Retest reliability was assessed in 45 participants. Agreement between live scoring and vignette ratings was very high. Retest stability for the interviews was high. Factor analysis indicated a first factor comprising social‐communication items and rigidity (but not other repetitive domain items), and a second factor comprised mainly of reading and spelling impairments. Whole scale Cronbach's alphas were high for both interviews. The correlation between interviews for factor 1 was moderate (adult items 0.50; childhood items 0.43); Kappa values for between‐interview agreement on individual items were mainly low. The correlations between individual items and total score were moderate. The inclusion of several factor 2 items lowered the overall Cronbach's alpha for the total set. Both interview measures showed good reliability and substantial stability over time, but the findings were better for factor 1 than factor 2. We recommend factor 1 scores be used for characterising the BAP. Autism Res 2015, 8: 522–533. © 2015 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evaluation of food effect on the oral bioavailability of pradigastat, a diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1 inhibitor
Authors: Ayalasomayajula Surya P. , Meyers Charles D. , Yu Jing , Kagan Mark , Matott Ralph , Pal Parasar , Majumdar Tapan , Su Zhenzhong , Crissey Anne , Rebello Sam , Sunkara Gangadhar , Chen Jin
Published: May 2015

Pradigastat, a diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1 inhibitor, is being developed for the treatment of familial chylomicronemia syndrome. The results of two studies that evaluated the effect of food on the oral bioavailability of pradigastat using randomized, open‐label, parallel group designs in healthy subjects (n = 24/treatment/study) are presented. In study 1, a single dose of 20 mg pradigastat was administered under the fasted condition or with a high‐fat meal. In study 2, a single dose of 40 mg pradigastat was administered under the fasted condition or with a low‐ or high‐fat meal. At the 20 mg dose, the pradigastat Cmax and AUClast increased by 38% and 41%, respectively, with a high‐fat meal. When 40 mg pradigastat was administered with a low‐fat meal, the Cmax and AUClast increased by 8% and 18%, respectively, whereas with a high‐fat meal the increase was 20% and 18%, respectively. The population pharmacokinetic analysis with the pooled data from 13 studies indicated that administration of pradigastat with a meal resulted in an increase of 30% in both the Cmax and AUC parameters. Based on these results, food overall increased pradigastat exposure in the range of less than 40%, which is not considered clinically significant. Both 20 and 40 mg doses of pradigastat were well tolerated under fasted or fed conditions. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative technoeconomic analysis of a softwood ethanol process featuring posthydrolysis sugars concentration operations and continuous fermentation with cell recycle
Authors: Schneiderman Steven J. , Gurram Raghu N. , Menkhaus Todd J. , Gilcrease Patrick C.
Published: May 2015

Economical production of second generation ethanol from Ponderosa pine is of interest due to widespread mountain pine beetle infestation in the western United States and Canada. The conversion process is limited by low glucose and high inhibitor concentrations resulting from conventional low‐solids dilute acid pretreatment and enzymatic hydrolysis. Inhibited fermentations require larger fermentors (due to reduced volumetric productivity) and low sugars lead to low ethanol titers, increasing distillation costs. In this work, multiple effect evaporation (MEE) and nanofiltration (NF) were evaluated to concentrate the hydrolysate from 30 g/l to 100, 150, or 200 g/l glucose. To ferment this high gravity, inhibitor containing stream, traditional batch fermentation was compared with continuous stirred tank fermentation (CSTF) and continuous fermentation with cell recycle (CSTF‐CR). Equivalent annual operating cost (EAOC = amortized capital + yearly operating expenses) was used to compare these potential improvements for a local‐scale 5 MGY ethanol production facility. Hydrolysate concentration via evaporation increased EAOC over the base process due to the capital and energy intensive nature of evaporating a very dilute sugar stream; however, concentration via NF decreased EAOC for several of the cases (by 2 to 15%). NF concentration to 100 g/l glucose with a CSTF‐CR was the most economical option, reducing EAOC by $0.15 per gallon ethanol produced. Sensitivity analyses on NF options showed that EAOC improvement over the base case could still be realized for even higher solids removal requirements (up to two times higher centrifuge requirement for the best case) or decreased NF performance. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 31:946–956, 2015
Solar‐Energy‐Driven Photoelectrochemical Biosensing Using TiO2 Nanowires
Authors: Tang Jing , Li Jun , Da Peimei , Wang Yongcheng , Zheng Gengfeng
Published: May 2015

Photoelectrochemical sensing represents a unique means for chemical and biological detection, with foci of optimizing semiconductor composition and electronic structures, surface functionalization layers, and chemical detection methods. Here, we have briefly discussed our recent developments of TiO2 nanowire‐based photoelectrochemical sensing, with particular emphasis on three main detection mechanisms and corresponding examples. We have also demonstrated the use of the photoelectrochemical sensing of real‐time molecular reaction kinetic measurements, as well as direct interfacing of living cells and probing of cellular functions.
Oxidative Olefination of Anilides with Unactivated Alkenes Catalyzed by an (Electron‐Deficient η5‐Cyclopentadienyl)Rhodium(III) Complex Under Ambient Conditions
Authors: Takahama Yuji , Shibata Yu , Tanaka Ken
Published: May 2015

The oxidative olefination of sp2 CH bonds of anilides with both activated and unactivated alkenes using an (electron‐deficient η5‐cyclopentadienyl)rhodium(III) complex is reported. In contrast to reactions using this electron‐deficient rhodium(III) catalyst, [Cp*RhCl2]2 showed no activity against olefination with unactivated alkenes. In addition, the deuterium kinetic isotope effect (DKIE) study revealed that the CH bond cleavage step is thought to be the turnover‐limiting step.
Synthesis, bulk growth, polarizability and nonlinear optical properties of γ‐glycine single crystals
Authors: Renuka Devi K. , Srinivasan K.
Published: May 2015

The role of sodium acetate, sodium nitrate, sodium hydroxide and malonic acid as additives in assisting the nucleation of γ‐polymorph from solution has been investigated. For the first time large dimensional bulk single crystals of γ‐glycine have been grown at the optimized concentration of the additives by the top seeded slow cooling technique. The bulk growth of single crystals elucidates well the unidirectional growth characteristics and the existence of merohedral twinning in γ‐ glycine. Polarizability, plasmon energy and Fermi energy has been evaluated for the first time for γ‐glycine single crystals based on an analytical approach. Structural affirmation of the nucleated polymorph has been carried out by Powder x‐ray diffraction and the thermal characteristics of the nucleated polymorph are well revealed by Differential Scanning Calorimetry. The non linear optical characteristics of γ‐glycine studied by Kurtz and Perry technique revealed increased SHG efficiency with the highest of about 2.2 in the presence of malonic acid compared to the standard Potassium dihydrogen orthophosphate (KDP).
Synthesis of radial‐like ZnO structure by hydrothermal method with ZnSO4·7H2O and Zn(CH3COO)2·2H2O as zinc sources
Authors: Wang Yongqian , Yang Jun , Kong Junhan , Jia Hanxiang , Wang Zhengshu , Jin Hongyun , Yu Meihua
Published: May 2015

Radial‐like ZnO structures were prepared using zinc sulfate (ZnSO4·7H2O) and zinc acetate [Zn(CH3COO)2·2H2O] as zinc sources by a facile template‐free hydrothermal method in this paper. Structural and optical properties of radial‐like ZnO structures are characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), UV‐vis spectrophotometer and photoluminescence measurement (PL). It has been found that the distinct surface morphologies of radial‐like ZnO structures grown by different zinc sources. Slim radial‐like ZnO with a hexagonal wurtzite structure is grown by using ZnSO4·7H2O as zinc sources, whereas coarse radial‐like ZnO with zincite structure is achieved by zinc acetate. The UV‐vis absorption spectra of them both display an obvious and significant absorption in the ultraviolet region. The room temperature PL spectra of ZnO structures grown by two different zinc sources possess a common feature that consists of a strong ultraviolet (UV) peak and visible emission band.
Mediation's Potential to Reduce Occupational Stress: A New Perspective
Authors: Tallodi Timea
Published: May 2015

This article is a response to several factors: the emergence of occupational stress as a main theme in a qualitative study involving parties to workplace mediation; the recognition that mediation, being underpinned by psychological stress models, can reduce occupational stress; and a lack of studies investigating mediation's potential to alleviate occupational stress. Linking mediation's main qualities to interactional and transactional models of stress, the article provides a new angle on mediation's dynamics. Findings are illustrated by extracts from interviews. Suggestions are made as to ways in which workplace mediation might be used more proactively in relation to stress.
Standardized counting of circulating platelet microparticles using currently available flow cytometers and scatter‐based triggering: Forward or side scatter?
Authors: Poncelet P. , Robert S. , Bouriche T. , Bez J. , Lacroix R. , Dignat‐George F.
Published: May 2015

Clinical determination of MP counts using flow cytometry has not been fully accepted yet due to the lack of standardization protocols. In the past 5 years, we have proposed two versions of a method with reproducible PMP counts in plasma samples. Both methods use forward scatter (FSC)–based threshold set with reference beads of appropriate sizes; first using 0.5 µm beads and later with 0.3 µm beads. Both systems provide reproducible PMP counts. However, this technique works only with some of currently used commercial flow cytometers. Instruments with limited resolution or generating heterogeneous FSC signals are excluded. Such performances are incompatible with the required interinstrument standardization. Here we show that (i) flow cytometers with sub‐optimal FSC capabilities generally have higher SSC resolution and background rejection capacity, and (ii) that the same biological entities, “dim and bright PMP,” both can be counted using alternative strategies, either as previously described, based on FSC measurements, or as presented here, based on SSC detection. The critical element in the standardization protocol is the use of different sizes of reference beads. This study was designed to permit simultaneous access to both FSC‐ and SSC‐optimized platforms. A new range of about 0.17–0.6 µm eq. (µm‐equivalents) is proposed for an alternative SSC–based MP gate generating the same PMP counts as those obtained in the previously proposed 0.3–1 µm eq. FSC–based MP gate. The two equivalent standardization options reconcile intrinsically different scattering behaviors between SSC‐ and FCS ‐ triggered instruments and open the opportunity for multicenter studies in the future. © 2015 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Possible DNA‐Interacting Pathways for Metal‐Based Compounds Exemplified with Copper Coordination Compounds
Authors: Brissos Rosa F. , Caubet Amparo , Gamez Patrick
Published: May 2015

Since the fortuitous discovery of the anticancer properties of cisplatin and its successful introduction in chemotherapy in 1978, numerous cytotoxic, metal‐based molecules have been increasingly reported in the literature. Due to the specific mechanism of action of cisplatin, DNA represents the main target for the design of potential metal‐containing antitumor agents. In the present microreview, the different pathways in which a metal complex can interact/degrade DNA are presented and some illustrative examples of DNA‐binding/DNA‐cleaving copper coordination compounds are described.
Indaphyrins and Indachlorins: Optical and Chiroptical Properties of a Family of Helimeric Porphyrinoids
Authors: Götz Daniel C. G. , Gehrold Andreas C. , Dorazio Sarina J. , Daddario Pedro , Samankumara Lalith , Bringmann Gerhard , Brückner Christian , Bruhn Torsten
Published: May 2015

Indaphyrins and indachlorins possess large chiral porphyrinoid π‐systems with particularly long‐wavelength absorption properties. All indaphyrin derivatives, including the indaphyrin MII complexes (M = NiII, CuII, ZnII, and PtII), adopt strongly ruffled conformations incorporating a helimeric twist, thus forming two stereochemically stable helimeric enantiomers. Their degree of ruffling is modulated by the coordination to metal ions or pyrrole ring modifications. Resolution of the racemic mixtures of the helimers of all derivatives was achieved by HPLC on a chiral phase and their absolute stereostructures were assigned. The much altered UV/Vis spectra of the indaphyrin derivatives, when compared to those of porphyrins, were rationalized using excited state calculations. The conformational stability of the conformers toward thermally induced racemization was also shown. The report forms the basis for future applications that exploit the chiral properties of the chromophores.
A novel electroencephalography‐based tool for objective assessment of network dynamics activated by nociceptive stimuli
Authors: Reches A. , Nir R.‐R. , Shram M.J. , Dickman D. , Laufer I. , Shani‐Hershkovich R. , Stern Y. , Weiss M. , Yarnitsky D. , Geva A.B.
Published: May 2015

Background

Pain perception is typically assessed using subjective measures; an objective measure of the response to pain would be valuable. In this study, Brain Network Activation (BNA), a novel multivariate pattern analysis and scoring algorithm, was applied to event‐related potentials (ERPs) elicited by cortical responses to brief heat stimuli. Objectives of this study were to evaluate the utility of BNA as a quantitative and qualitative measure of cortical response to pain.

Methods

Contact Heat Evoked Potentials (CHEPs) data were collected from 17 healthy, right‐handed volunteers (10 M, 7F) using 5 different temperatures (35, 41, 46, 49 and 52 °C). A set of spatio‐temporal activity patterns common to all the subjects in the group (Reference Brain Network Model; RBNM) was generated using the BNA algorithm, based on evoked responses at 52 °C.

Results

Frame by frame ‘unfolding’ of the brain network across time showed qualitative differences between responses to painful and non‐painful stimuli. Brain network activation scores were shown to be a better indicator of the individual's sensitivity to pain when compared to subjective pain ratings. Additionally, BNA scores correlated significantly with temperature, demonstrated good test–retest reliability, as well as a high degree of sensitivity, specificity and accuracy in correctly categorizing subjects who reported stimuli as painful.

Conclusions

These results may provide evidence that the multivariate analysis performed with BNA may be useful as a quantitative, temporally sensitive tool for assessment of pain perception.
Multiplatform characterization of dynamic changes in breast milk during lactation
Authors: Andreas Nicholas J. , Hyde Matthew J. , Gomez‐Romero Maria , Lopez‐Gonzalvez Maria Angeles , Villaseñor Alma , Wijeyesekera Anisha , Barbas Coral , Modi Neena , Holmes Elaine , Garcia‐Perez Isabel
Published: May 2015

The multicomponent analysis of human breast milk (BM) by metabolic profiling is a new area of study applied to determining milk composition, and is capable of associating BM composition with maternal characteristics, and subsequent infant health outcomes. A multiplatform approach combining HPLC‐MS and ultra‐performance LC‐MS, GC‐MS, CE‐MS, and1H NMR spectroscopy was used to comprehensively characterize metabolic profiles from seventy BM samples. A total of 710 metabolites spanning multiple molecular classes were defined. The utility of the individual and combined analytical platforms was explored in relation to numbers of metabolites identified, as well as the reproducibility of the methods. The greatest number of metabolites was identified by the single phase HPLC‐MS method, while CE‐MS uniquely profiled amino acids in detail and NMR was the most reproducible, whereas GC‐MS targeted volatile compounds and short chain fatty acids. Dynamic changes in BM composition were characterized over the first 3 months of lactation. Metabolites identified as altering in abundance over lactation included fucose, di‐ and triacylglycerols, and short chain fatty acids, known to be important for infant immunological, neurological, and gastrointestinal development, as well as being an important source of energy. This extensive metabolic coverage of the dynamic BM metabolome provides a baseline for investigating the impact of maternal characteristics, as well as establishing the impact of environmental and dietary factors on the composition of BM, with a focus on the downstream health consequences this may have for infants.
Acoustic flows in viscous fluid: a lattice Boltzmann study
Authors: Chen Xiao‐Peng , Ren Hu
Published: May 2015

Acoustic waves (or oscillating flows) cause both periodic flow and steady streaming around an obstacle. The nonlinear characteristic of such flows further induces acoustic radiation forces exerting on the surface of the obstacle, which is efficient to levitate or manipulate small partials. Two‐dimensional lattice Boltzmann methods are applied to simulate the flows around cylinders in acoustic standing waves with moderate viscosity. Multiple relaxation time model coupled with far‐field absorbing condition is applied. Our results show recirculating leading order flow in the Stokes layer with a characteristic velocity predicted by potential flow. The consequent Reynolds stresses induce two kinds of patterns of first‐order steady streaming, namely, single and double layer streamings, respectively, according to the strength of the viscous effects. Compared with the theoretical analysis, the lattice Boltzmann simulation is accurate for both radiation forces and flow fields. Both numerical results and scaling analysis show that the viscous drag is linearly proportional to the thickness of the penetration depth, which is coincident with the low viscous cases. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prevalence of dementia in East Asia: a synthetic review of time trends
Authors: Wu Yu‐Tzu , Brayne Carol , Matthews Fiona E.
Published: May 2015

Objective

This study aims to synthesise evidence on time trends of dementia prevalence in East Asian countries including Japan, China, South Korea and Taiwan and assess the impact of the societal changes on future prevalence.

Method

Relevant reviews and recent nationwide studies in East Asia were identified to investigate changes in prevalence of dementia over time taking into account the potential impact of methodological factors and study designs.

Results

The robust evidence that has been interpreted to suggest a substantial increasing trend over time is less compelling once fundamental differences in study methods and populations across individual surveys are considered. In Japan, longitudinal studies in small areas suggest the potential increase of prevalence after 2000. Increasing trends in China, South Korea and Taiwan over the last 20–30 years are based on the literature review without adjustment for methodological differences. Economic development and huge societal changes alongside the rise of non‐communicable disease in East Asia could lead to increasing prevalence of dementia in the future once those cohorts with high risk of dementia reached their older age.

Conclusion

Current evidence is not sufficient to suggest increasing trends of dementia prevalence in East Asia. Longitudinal studies with representative samples and stable methodology are needed to provide fundamental information of the epidemiology of dementia and identify important risk factors in East Asian societies. © 2015 The Authors. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Long noncoding RNA DANCR increases stemness features of hepatocellular carcinoma by derepression of CTNNB1
Authors: Yuan Sheng‐xian , Wang Jie , Yang Fu , Tao Qi‐fei , Zhang Jin , Wang Li‐li , Yang Yuan , Liu Hui , Wang Zhen‐guang , Xu Qing‐guo , Fan Jia , Liu Lei , Sun Shu‐han , Zhou Wei‐ping
Published: May 2015

Tumor cells with stemness (stem‐cell) features contribute to initiation and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but involvement of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) remains largely unclear. Genome‐wide analyses were applied to identify tumor‐associated lncRNA‐DANCR. DANCR expression level and prognostic values of DANCR were assayed in two HCC cohorts (China and Korea, n = 135 and 223). Artificial modulation of DANCR (down‐ and overexpression) was done to explore the role of DANCR in tumorigenesis and colonization, and tumor‐bearing mice were used to determine therapeutic effects. We found that lncRNA‐DANCR is overexpressed in stem‐like HCC cells, and this can serve as a prognostic biomarker for HCC patients. Experiments showed that DANCR markedly increased stemness features of HCC cells to promote tumorigenesis and intra‐/extrahepatic tumor colonization. Conversely, DANCR knockdown attenuated the stem‐cell properties and in vivo interference with DANCR action led to decreased tumor cell vitality, tumor shrinkage, and improved mouse survival. Additionally, we found that the role of DANCR relied largely on an association with, and regulation of, CTNNB1. Association of DANCR with CTNNB1 blocked the repressing effect of microRNA (miR)−214, miR‐320a, and miR‐199a on CTNNB1. This observation was confirmed in vivo, suggesting a novel mechanism of tumorigenesis involving lncRNAs, messenger RNAs, and microRNAs. Conclusions: These studies reveal a significance and mechanism of DANCR action in increasing stemness features and offer a potential prognostic marker and a therapeutic target for HCC. (Hepatology 2016;63:499–511)
Safety data on 19 vehicles for use in 1 month oral rodent pre‐clinical studies: administration of hydroxypropyl‐ß‐cyclodextrin causes renal toxicity
Authors: Healing Guy , Sulemann Tabassum , Cotton Peter , Harris Jayne , Hargreaves Adam , Finney Rowena , Kirk Sarah , Schramm Carolin , Garner Clare , Pivette Perrine , Burdett Lisa
Published: May 2015

Potential new drugs are assessed in pre‐clinical in vivo studies to determine their safety profiles. The drugs are formulated in vehicles suitable for the route of administration and the physicochemical properties of the drug, aiming to achieve optimal exposure in the test species. The availability of safety data on vehicles is often limited (incomplete data, access restricted/private databases). Nineteen potentially useful vehicles that contained new and/or increased concentrations of excipients and for which little safety data have been published were tested. Vehicles were dosed orally once daily to HanWistar rats for a minimum of 28 days and a wide range of toxicological parameters were assessed. Only 30% (w/v) hydroxypropyl‐ß‐cyclodextrin was found unsuitable owing to effects on liver enzymes (AST, ALT and GLDH), urinary volume and the kidneys (tubular vacuolation and tubular pigment). 20% (v/v) oleic acid caused increased salivation and hence this vehicle should be used with caution. As 40% (v/v) tetraethylene glycol affected urinary parameters, its use should be carefully considered, particularly for compounds suspected to impact the renal system and studies longer than 1 month. There were no toxicologically significant findings with 10% (v/v) dimethyl sulphoxide, 20% (v/v) propylene glycol, 33% (v/v) Miglyol®812, 20% (w/v) Kolliphor®RH40, 10% (w/v) Poloxamer 407, 5% (w/v) polyvinylpyrrolidone K30 or 10% (v/v) Labrafil®M1944. All other vehicles tested caused isolated or low magnitude effects which would not prevent their use. The aim of sharing these data, including adverse findings, is to provide meaningful information for vehicle selection, thereby avoiding repetition of animal experimentation. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Green One‐Pot Solvent‐Free Synthesis of Pyrazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidines, Azolo[3,4‐d]pyridiazines, and Thieno[2,3‐b]pyridines Containing Triazole Moiety
Authors: Abdelhamid Abdou O. , El‐Idreesy Tamer T. , Abdelriheem Nadia A. , Dawoud Huda R. M.
Published: May 2015

Synthesis of pyrazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidines, [1,2,4]triazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidine, 8,10‐dimethyl‐2‐(5‐methyl‐1‐phenyl‐4,5‐dihydro‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazol‐4‐yl)pyrido[2′,3′:3,4]‐pyrazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidine, benzo[4,5]imidazo[1,2‐a]pyrimidine via heterocyclic amines, and sodium 3‐hydroxy‐1‐(5‐methyl‐1‐phenyl‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazole‐4‐yl)prop‐2‐en‐1‐one were carried out. Also, synthesis of isoxazoles, and pyrazoles from sodium 3‐hydroxy‐1‐(5‐methyl‐1‐phenyl‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazole‐4‐yl)prop‐2‐en‐1‐one and hydroxymoyl chlorides and hydrazonoyl halides, respectively, were made. Analogously, (1,2,3‐triazol‐4‐yl)thieno[2,3‐b]pyridine derivatives were obtained from sodium 3‐hydroxy‐1‐(5‐methyl‐1‐phenyl‐1H‐1,2,3‐ triazole‐4‐yl)prop‐2‐en‐1‐one and cyanothioacetamide followed by its reacting with active methylene compounds. In addition to full characterization of all synthesized compounds, they were tested to evaluate their antimicrobial activities, and some compounds showed competitive activities to those of tetracycline, the typical antibacterial drug, and clotrimazole, the typical antifungal drug.
Synthesis and Antiviral Bioactivity of Novel 2‐Substituted Methlthio‐5‐(4‐Amino‐2‐Methylpyrimidin‐5‐yl)‐1,3,4‐Thiadiazole Derivatives
Authors: Wu Wen‐Neng , Tai An‐Qi , Chen Qin , Ouyang Gui‐Ping
Published: May 2015

A series of novel 2‐substituted methlthio‐5‐(4‐amino‐2‐methylpyrimidin‐5‐yl‐)‐1,3,4‐thiadiazole derivatives were synthesized, characterized and evaluated for antiviral activities against tobacco mosaic virus (TMV). The preliminary biological results indicated that most compounds exhibit excellent antiviral activity against TMV in vivo. Among these compounds, compounds 9c, 9i, and 9p displayed the similar curative effect against TMV (EC50 = 287.05–322.47 µg/mL) to that of the commercial agent Ningnanmycin (EC50 = 301.83 µg/mL). In particular, compound 9d demonstrated the best curative effect against TMV (EC50 = 266.21 µg/mL), which was better than that of commercial Ningnanmycin.
Enhancing radiolytic stability upon concentration of tritium‐labeled pharmaceuticals utilizing centrifugal evaporation
Authors: Marques Rosemary , Helmy Roy , Waterhouse David
Published: May 2015

Tritium radiopharmaceuticals are often used in drug development because of their desirable specific activity. The inherent instability of these radioactive tracers often leads to a requirement to purify prior to use. Purification methodologies such as preparative chromatography and solid/liquid extractions often utilize water as a solvent, which is not suitable for long‐term storage and necessitates removal. Rotary evaporation has traditionally been utilized for the removal of this unwanted solvent, however, this method has been shown to lead to decomposition of the tritium species in some cases. Centrifugal evaporation is a milder concentration method which has been demonstrated to effectively remove solvents. In this study, we show that centrifugal evaporation leads to effective concentration of tritium samples without the decomposition typically observed by rotary evaporation.