bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Grossly calcified choroid plexus concealing foramen of Monro meningiomas as an unusual cause of obstructive hydrocephalus
Authors: Kawaguchi Tomohiro , Fujimura Miki , Tominaga Teiji
Published: September 2015

Various intraventricular tumors can present with calcifications; however, the choroid plexus can also have physiological calcifications. This is the first case report of meningiomas located at the bilateral foramen of Monro (FOM), concealed by a grossly calcified choroid plexus, presenting with obstructive hydrocephalus. A 60-year-old woman with disturbed consciousness was admitted by ambulance. Head computed tomography revealed significantly high-density lesions that smoothly extended from the choroid plexus of the lateral ventricles to the third ventricle. They occupied both sides of the FOM, resulting in obstructive hydrocephalus. The diagnostic endoscopic biopsy was performed using a flexible neuroendoscopic system, and an egg shell-like grossly calcified choroid plexus was found to smoothly extend toward the FOM. Resection was not selected because the calcified lesions had tightly adhered to the veins and fornix; therefore, the patient underwent ventriculo-peritoneal shunting. The lesions were histologically identified as psammomatous meningiomas with low proliferation potential (the Ki-67 labeling index was lower than 1%). She was discharged 10 days after surgery without neurological deficits. As calcifications can have tumoral and nontumoral origins, we considered neuroendoscopic exploration to be essential in order to achieve an accurate diagnosis and select optimal management.
A cost effectiveness based safety and efficacy study of resterilized intra-parenchymal catheter based intracranial pressure monitoring in developing world
Authors: Gupta Deepak , Bisht Ajay , Batra Priyam , Mathur Purva , Mahapatra Ashok
Published: September 2015

Background: The management of traumatic brain injury (TBI) aims to maintain the normal cerebral perfusion in spite of the mass lesions that may occur (haematoma, contusion, and oedema). The monitoring of the intracranial pressure (ICP) is a step in that direction. The intra-parenchymal catheters have the lowest incidence of infection compared to intra-ventricular/subdural catheters with reliable and accurate pressure recordings. The major disadvantage of the intra-parenchymal catheters is the cost, especially in developing nations.
Hypothesis: Resterilized intra-parenchymal strain gauge catheters can be used safely for ICP monitoring without any added risk of meningitis. The reusage of catheters can bring down the costs. Resterilized catheters/equipment have been approved for usage in cardiac usage, but such study on ICP catheters has not been carried out so far in any part of the world.
Methodology: A total of 100 consecutive cases of severe TBI receiving ICP monitoring at a level 1 trauma center of a developing nation were prospectively studied (34 cases had fresh catheters, and 66 had resterilized [using ethylene oxide] catheters).
Observations: The use of reused resterilized catheters was not associated with increased incidence of meningitis or fever (the surrogate marker for infection in this study). Also, there was concordance between the pressure recording of reused catheters and operative finding/subsequent computed tomography scans. These catheters after sterilization could be reused 2–4 times and reliably recorded the ICP (insignificant drift) with no increase in the incidence of meningitis. Conclusions: Usage of resterilized intra-parenchymal ICP catheters is feasible, safe, efficacious, and cost effective and brings down the cost of monitoring significantly.
A curious case of spontaneously resolving closed “jigsaw” depressed skull fracture in an adolescent
Authors: Harsh Viraat , Besra Saurav , Kumar Jayendra , Kumar Anil
Published: September 2015

Spontaneously resolving depressed skull fractures have been previously reported in the pediatric age group, however they are very rare in adolescents. We report a case of spontaneously elevating depressed fracture in a 13 year old boy. Depressed skull fractures in this age group might resolve on its own but may also complicate during its course of non-operative self elevation. In the reported case, the child developed gliosis and suffered seizures two years after the trauma. Repeat scans showed almost normal skull topography with underlying gliotic changes. Although all depressed skull fractures won't complicate as such, patients without neurological deficits should also be operated to prevent any delayed complications.
Atmospheric constraints on the methane emissions from the East Siberian Shelf
Authors: Berchet A. , Bousquet P. , Pison I. , Locatelli R. , Chevallier F. , Paris J.-D. , Dlugokencky E. J. , Laurila T. , Hatakka J. , Viisanen Y. , Worthy D. E. J. , Nisbet E. G. , Fisher R. E. , France J. L. , Lowry D. , Ivakhov V.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Sub-sea permafrost and hydrates in the East Siberian Arctic Ocean Continental Shelf (ESAS) constitute a substantial carbon pool, and a potentially large source of methane to the atmosphere. Previous studies based on interpolated oceanographic campaigns estimated atmospheric emissions from this area at 8–17 Tg CH4 y−1. Here, we propose insights based on atmospheric observations to evaluate these estimates. Isotopic observations suggest a biogenic origin (either terrestrial or marine) of the methane in air masses originating from ESAS during summer 2010. The comparison of high-resolution simulations of atmospheric methane mole fractions to continuous methane observations during the entire year 2012 confirms the high variability and heterogeneity of the methane releases from ESAS. Simulated mole fractions including a 8 Tg CH4 y−1 source from ESAS are found largely overestimated compared to the observations in winter, whereas summer signals are more consistent with each other. Based on a comprehensive statistical analysis of the observations and of the simulations, annual methane emissions from ESAS are estimated in a range of 0.5–4.3 Tg CH4 y−1.
Inter-comparison of IASI and AATSR over an extended period
Authors: Bali M. , Mittaz J. , Maturi E. , Goldberg M.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. The launch of ENVISAT in 2002 and the launch of MetTop-A in 2006 put two highly accurate instruments in space to measure Top of Atmosphere (TOA) radiances. These instruments are the AATSR and IASI. While the AATSR, by design is a climate accurate (i.e. accuracy within 0.1 K and stability within 0.05 K dec−1) instrument, the IASI is a hyperspectral instrument that has a stated accuracy of within 0.5 K. This accuracy and stability are used in producing climate CDR's from these instruments and also aids in using these instruments as benchmarks for inter-comparison studies that aim at measuring stability and accuracy of instruments that are concurrently flying with them. The GSICS (Global Space Based Inter-Calibration System) has extensively exploited the IASI by comparing its measurements with Polar as well as Geostationary satellite instruments and measuring the in-orbit stability and accuracy of these instruments. More recent re-calibration efforts, such as the NOAA CDR project that is aimed at recalibrating the AVHRR uses the IASI and the AATSR as references. However to trust the recalibrated radiances it is vital that the in-orbit accuracy of the reference sources is known and critical issues such as scan angle dependence, and temporal variation of the accuracy are fully evaluated across a large temperature range (200–300 K). In order to better understand the accuracy and asses the trustworthiness of these references we present here a comprehensive analysis of the AATSR–IASI bias derived from their collocated pixels, over the period January 2008 through March 2011. Our analysis indicates that generally the AATSR (Nadir View) and IASI can act as good reference instruments and IASI is much more accurate than its design specification. In fact, taking into account a small bias the AATSR–IASI bias is close to the AATSR pre-launch bias implying that IASI can get close to pre-launch levels of accuracy. We also examine temperature dependent bias in the AATSR at low (< 240 K) temperatures which seems to appear after orbit was lowered of the ENVISAT satellite and its inclination control was discontinued. In addition, a very small scan angular dependence of AATSR–IASI bias indicates that the AVHRR has a scan angle dependent bias. We also examine the bias problem with the 12 μm channel of the AATSR in detail. We show that this bias not only has a temperature dependence (it grows up to 0.4 K at low temperatures) but also has a seasonal dependence in the SST (265–300 K) temperature range and is highly correlated to instrument temperature in the cold temperature range. We then discuss a possible method to correct the 11 and the 12 μm bias so as to use the corrected radiances for re-calibration of AVHRR.
A comparison of benthic foraminiferal Mn / Ca and sedimentary Mn / Al as proxies of relative bottom-water oxygenation in the low-latitude NE Atlantic upwelling system
Authors: McKay C. L. , Groeneveld J. , Filipsson H. L. , Gallego-Torres D. , Whitehouse M. J. , Toyofuku T. , Romero O.E.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Trace element incorporation into foraminiferal shells (tests) is governed by physical and chemical conditions of the surrounding marine environment, and therefore foraminiferal geochemistry provides a means of palaeo-oceanographic reconstructions. With the availability of high-spatial-resolution instrumentation with high precision, foraminiferal geochemistry has become a major research topic over recent years. However, reconstructions of past bottom-water oxygenation using foraminiferal tests remain in their infancy. In this study we explore the potential of using Mn / Ca determined by secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) as well as by flow-through inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (FT-ICP-OES) in the benthic foraminiferal species Eubuliminella exilis as a proxy for recording changes in bottom-water oxygen conditions in the low-latitude NE Atlantic upwelling system. Furthermore, we compare the SIMS and FT-ICP-OES results with published Mn sediment bulk measurements from the same sediment core. This is the first time that benthic foraminiferal Mn / Ca is directly compared with Mn bulk measurements, which largely agree on the former oxygen conditions. Samples were selected to include different productivity regimes related to Marine Isotope Stage 3 (35–28 ka), the Last Glacial Maximum (28–19 ka), Heinrich Event 1 (18–15.5 ka), Bølling Allerød (15.5–13.5 ka) and the Younger Dryas (13.5–11.5 ka). Foraminiferal Mn / Ca determined by SIMS and FT-ICP-OES is comparable. Mn / Ca was higher during periods with high primary productivity, such as during the Younger Dryas, which indicates low-oxygen conditions. This is further supported by the benthic foraminiferal faunal composition. Our results highlight the proxy potential of Mn / Ca in benthic foraminifera from upwelling systems for reconstructing past variations in oxygen conditions of the sea floor environment as well as the need to use it in combination with other proxy records such as faunal assemblage data.
Increasing P-stress and viral infection impact lipid remodeling of the picophytoplankter Micromonas pusilla
Authors: Maat D. S. , Bale N. J. , Hopmans E. C. , Sinninghe Damsté J. S. , Schouten S. , Brussaard C. P. D.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. The intact polar lipid (IPL) composition of phytoplankton is plastic and dependent on environmental factors. Previous studies have shown that phytoplankton under phosphorus (P)-stress substitute phosphatidylglycerols (PGs) with sulphoquinovosyldiacylglycerols (SQDGs) and digalactosyldiacylglycerols (DGDGs). However, these studies focused merely on P-depletion, while phytoplankton in the natural environment often experience P-limitation whereby the degree of limitation depends on the supply rate of the limiting nutrient. Here we demonstrate a linear increase in SQDG : PG and DGDG : PG ratios with increasing cellular P-stress in the picophotoeukaryote Micromonas pusilla, obtained by P-replete, P-limited (chemostat) and P-starved (no supply of P) culturing conditions. These ratios were not affected by the degree of the P-limiting conditions itself (i.e. 0.97 and 0.32 μmax chemostats), suggesting there is a minimum requirement of PGs for the maintenance of cell growth. Viral infection reduced the increase in SQDG : PG and DGDG : PG ratios in P-starved cells, but the extent did depend on the growth rate of the cultures before infection. The membrane of M. pusilla virus MpV itself was lacking some IPLs compared to the host as, e.g. no monogalactosyldiacylglycerols could be detected. Growth of the phytoplankton cultures under enhanced CO2 concentration did not affect the lipid remodeling results. The present study provides new insights into how the P-related trophic state of an ecosystem as well as viral infection can affect phytoplankton IPL composition, and therefore influence food web dynamics and biogeochemical cycling.
Life time of soil moisture perturbations in a coupled land-atmosphere simulation
Authors: Stacke T. , Hagemann S.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. In order to evaluate whether the initialization of soil moisture has the potential to improve the prediction skill of coupled climate models at seasonal to decadal time scales, an elaborated AMIP-type experiment was conducted. The experiment design considered soil moisture initialization in different seasons and years, and yields information about the life-time (memory) of extreme yet realistic soil moisture perturbations. Our analyses were focused on root zone soil moisture (RootSM) as it comprises the part of the soil that directly interacts with the atmosphere via bare soil evaporation and transpiration. We found that RootSM memory differs not only spatially but also depends on the time of initialization. Long memory up to one year is evident mostly for dry soil moisture regimes, after heavy precipitation periods or prior to snow covered conditions. Short memory below two weeks prevails in wet soil moisture regimes and prior to distinct precipitation periods or snow melt. Furthermore, RootSM perturbations affect other land surface states, e.g. soil temperature and leaf carbon content, and even induce anomalies with specific memory in these variables. Especially for deep layer soil temperature these anomalies can last up to several years. As long as RootSM memory is evident, we found that anomalies occur periodically in other land surface states whenever climate conditions allow for interactions between that state and RootSM. Additionally, anomaly recurrence is visible for RootSM itself. This recurrence is related to the thickness of the soil layer below the root zone and can affect RootSM for several years. From our findings we conclude that soil moisture initialization has the potential to improve the predictive skill of climate models on seasonal scales and beyond. However, a sophisticated, multi-layered soil hydrology scheme is necessary, to allow for the interactions between RootSM and the deep soil layer reservoir.
On the use of electrochemical multi-sensors in biologically charged media
Authors: Sachse S. , Bockisch A. , Enseleit U. , Gerlach F. , Ahlborn K. , Kuhnke T. , Rother U. , Kielhorn E. , Neubauer P. , Junne S. , Vonau W.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. For the investigation and characterisation of liquid media with microorganisms, electrochemical sensors are typically used. Usually the microorganisms are part of the process or cannot be excluded for different reasons. This paper describes the application of various electrodes, which are partly miniaturised and combined with multi-sensor systems for several applications in processes containing microorganisms. The application in industrial bioprocesses like beer brewing and biogas production, and in paper manufacturing, is described. The performance of the multi-sensor systems, and thus their suitability for a contribution to improved process monitoring, is evaluated. The multi-sensor systems represent an interesting tool to enhance monitoring capacities at installed systems without the necessity for huge port installations and offer the possibility to monitor the spatial distribution of gradients. The developed systems presented here allow location-independent measurements in process plants with a variable positioning of the sensors in the industrial reactors.
Evaluation of shallow landslide-triggering scenarios through a physically based approach: an example of application in the southern Messina area (northeastern Sicily, Italy)
Authors: Schilirò L. , Esposito C. , Scarascia Mugnozza G.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Rainfall-induced shallow landslides are a widespread phenomenon that frequently causes substantial damage to property, as well as numerous casualties. In recent~years a wide range of physically based models have been developed to analyze the triggering process of these events. Specifically, in this paper we propose an approach for the evaluation of different shallow landslide-triggering scenarios by means of the TRIGRS (transient rainfall infiltration and grid-based slope stability) numerical model. For the validation of the model, a back analysis of the landslide event that occurred in the study area (located SW of Messina, northeastern Sicily, Italy) on 1 October 2009 was performed, by using different methods and techniques for the definition of the input parameters. After evaluating the reliability of the model through comparison with the 2009 landslide inventory, different triggering scenarios were defined using rainfall values derived from the rainfall probability curves, reconstructed on the basis of daily and hourly historical rainfall data. The results emphasize how these phenomena are likely to occur in the area, given that even short-duration (1–3 h) rainfall events with a relatively low return period (e.g., 10–20~years) can trigger numerous slope failures. Furthermore, for the same rainfall amount, the daily simulations underestimate the instability conditions. The high susceptibility of this area to shallow landslides is testified by the high number of landslide/flood events that have occurred in the past and are summarized in this paper by means of archival research. Considering the main features of the proposed approach, the authors suggest that this methodology could be applied to different areas, even for the development of landslide early warning systems.
Measuring Student Music Growth With Blind-Reviewed Portfolios: A Pilot Study
Authors: Parkes Kelly A. , Rohwer Debbie , Davison Dru
Published: September 2015

The purpose of this study was to develop reliable and valid measures of student learning and growth in music classes (prekindergarten through 12th grade [PK-12] public schools) in Virginia by replicating the first portion of the Fine Arts Teacher Evaluation Pilot (Memphis City Schools, 2012) with a research grant. The methods involved: (a) surveying all state stakeholders, (b) forming the Music Growth Measures Committee that created measurement instruments (MIs), (c) creating professional development offerings with teachers to assist them in assessing their students’ work and selecting artifacts that could illustrate growth over time, and (d) forming a local review team comprised of peer-exemplary music teachers from one school district to conduct a holistic blind review of teacher-selected student artifacts using the MIs as submitted with portfolios of student work. The MIs measured Virginia music standard strands: performance and production, cultural context and music theory, judgment and criticism, and aesthetics. Reasonable reliability and validity resulted from constructing measurements with the community in which they were to be used and utilizing a blind-review process. Additionally, the process promoted a sense of empowerment in teachers and was viewed positively by teachers and administrators as a successful professional development effort. The MIs and student growth portfolios were considered useful as measures of student growth for use in teacher evaluations.
Exploring Learning Connections Between Music and Mathematics in Early Childhood
Authors: McDonel Jennifer S.
Published: September 2015

The purpose of this study was to explore early learning connections between music and mathematics. To resolve the research questions "What connections--if any--do young children make between music learning and mathematics learning?" and "Is there a relationship between young children’s emergent rhythm development and emergent numeracy development?" a concurrent embedded, mixed-methods design was utilized; quantitative data were embedded within a primarily qualitative analysis. Ten preschool children in an intact class were observed for 11 weeks at predetermined points during spring 2012 through participant observation and video footage of children’s daily classroom interactions and weekly music classes. Interventions, by both classroom teachers and a music specialist, were intended to foster appropriate music and mathematics practice based on Gordon’s (2012) music learning theory and Clements and Sarama’s (2009) mathematics learning trajectories. Emergent themes reinforced current theory that learning is interactive and individually and socially constructed. Individual children expressed themselves more readily through music or mathematics; careful coordination of these content areas allowed for learning connections in a safe environment. Correlation of music aptitude, rhythm achievement, and numeracy achievement scores provided supportive evidence regarding the relationship of early rhythm and early mathematics development; however, caution is advised in interpretation due to low sample size. Recommendations include selecting preschool song literature to meet music learning and mathematics learning objectives, eliciting observable musical and mathematical responses, and reinforcing learning connections and increased music and mathematics pedagogy courses and professional development for preschool classroom teachers to support learning connections.
Cleveland's Baldwin Filtration Plant: Standing the Test of Time
Authors: Rodgers Margaret , Raimann Melinda
Published: September 2015

The Baldwin Filtration Plant (Cleveland, Ohio) started operations in 1925 to provide better‐tasting, safer drinking water. Since then the plant has undergone a significant enhancement program and remains on‐line today.
The USEPA Clean Power Plan: Challenges and Opportunities for Water Utilities
Authors: Aubuchon Craig P. , Carpenter Adam T.
Published: September 2015

Water utilities working to address the energy‐water nexus need to be aware of the recently released Clean Power Plan, which presents new incentives and opportunities to implement energy‐efficiency programs.
Conference Report: The 6th International Symposium on Waterborne Pathogens
Authors:   ISWP 2015 PLANNING COMMITTEE
Published: September 2015

Experts from around the world convened to discuss the threat of various pathogens and to present recent research that exemplifies the industry's continued vigilance against disease outbreaks.
The Wild Hunter, the Wandering Jew, and the Flying Dutchman: The Hunt In Wagner’s Der fliegende Holländer
Authors: Stephen J. Drew
Published: September 2015

Richard Wagner’sDer fliegende Holländeris unusual among the composer’s mature operas for the brevity and relative unfamiliarity of its source material. Since the legend of the Flying Dutchman was relatively unknown, both Heine and Wagner contextualize the Dutchman by relating him to better-known figures: Heine refers to the Dutchman as the Wandering Jew, and Wagner, through hunting music, connects him to the Wild Hunter. This article addresses the significance of these associations by examining the meanings of all three legends and demonstrating how they are used by Wagner to provide dramatic and musical structure in the opera.
Imaging and energetics of single SSB-ssDNA molecules reveal intramolecular condensation and insight into RecOR function
Authors: Bell Jason C , Liu Bian , Kowalczykowski Stephen C
Published: September 2015

Escherichia coli single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) binding protein (SSB) is the defining bacterial member of ssDNA binding proteins essential for DNA maintenance. SSB binds ssDNA with a variable footprint of ∼30–70 nucleotides, reflecting partial or full wrapping of ssDNA around a tetramer of SSB. We directly imaged single molecules of SSB-coated ssDNA using total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy and observed intramolecular condensation of nucleoprotein complexes exceeding expectations based on simple wrapping transitions. We further examined this unexpected property by single-molecule force spectroscopy using magnetic tweezers. In conditions favoring complete wrapping, SSB engages in long-range reversible intramolecular interactions resulting in condensation of the SSB-ssDNA complex. RecO and RecOR, which interact with SSB, further condensed the complex. Our data support the idea that RecOR--and possibly other SSB-interacting proteins—function(s) in part to alter long-range, macroscopic interactions between or throughout nucleoprotein complexes by microscopically altering wrapping and bridging distant sites.
Modulation of GABA and resting state functional connectivity by transcranial direct current stimulation
Authors: Bachtiar Velicia , Near Jamie , Johansen-Berg Heidi , Stagg Charlotte J
Published: September 2015

We previously demonstrated that network level functional connectivity in the human brain could be related to levels of inhibition in a major network node at baseline (Stagg et al., 2014). In this study, we build upon this finding to directly investigate the effects of perturbing M1 GABA and resting state functional connectivity using transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), a neuromodulatory approach that has previously been demonstrated to modulate both metrics. FMRI data and GABA levels, as assessed by Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy, were measured before and after 20 min of 1 mA anodal or sham tDCS. In line with previous studies, baseline GABA levels were negatively correlated with the strength of functional connectivity within the resting motor network. However, although we confirm the previously reported findings that anodal tDCS reduces GABA concentration and increases functional connectivity in the stimulated motor cortex; these changes are not correlated, suggesting they may be driven by distinct underlying mechanisms.
Survival of an Actinomycete in a Carbonized Rice Hull-Based Carrier
Authors: Cruz Jayvee A. , Cadiente Mea Katreena M.
Published: September 2015

Carbonized rice hull (CRH) is an alternative to wood charcoal as a carrier component in making inoculants. Being a waste product in rice farming, the use of CRH is more practical and environment-friendly. This study determined the survival of an actinomycete in a CRH-based carrier. Its cell population was counted periodically up to 250 days of incubation using the spread plate method. The initial population of 2.2 x 104 cfu/g increased to 2.9 x 107 cfu/g (135, 160%) 5 days after inoculation (DAI). However, number of cells decreased to 1.5 x 107 cfu/g 170 DAI, gradually increasing to a final population of 1.8 x 107 cfu/g at 250 DAI; 8.17 x 107 percent of the initial population remained viable in the CRH-based carrier. The survival of the actinomycete demonstrates the potential of CRH as inoculant carrier. However, which carrier can sustain high populations of the actinomycete has yet to be determined. Keywords - Microbiology, actinomycete, survival, CRH-Based carrier, Nueva Ecija, Philippines
Leaf Architecture of Hoya incrassata Warb. and Hoya crassicaulis Elmer x Kloppenb. (Apocynaceae): Taxonomic Identification and Conservation Concerns
Authors: Villareal Angela Marie M. , Buot Jr. Inocencio E.
Published: September 2015

Hoya incrassata Warb. and Hoya crassicaulis Elmer x Kloppenb, both Philippine endemics have been always thought to be one species. Leaf architecture study of the two controversial species were examined to determine if they have similar characteristics in terms of leaf architecture, the main morphological character used in fossil studies and in taxonomic works dealing with sterile plant specimens. The unifying characters of the two species are the symmetrical and unlobed blade, acuminate apex, entire margin, pinnate primary vein, straight primary vein course, weak brochidodromous secondary vein, moderate relative secondary vein thickness, sinuous secondary vein course, loop-forming branches, enclosed by 3° or 4° arches, composite intersecondary veins, random reticulate tertiary vein, regular polygonal reticulate quaternary vein, looped ultimate marginal venation, and random areole arrangement. The characters blade length to width ratio, blade class and form, base shape, variation in secondary vein angle of divergence, and areole development delineates the two species apart. The study proved that H. incrassata and H. crassicaulis are two different species. Leaf architecture can be of great use when identifying and classifying seemingly similar plant species and sterile specimens. As both species are endemics to the Philippines, conservation ought to be massive as these species can be lost anytime with forest destruction. Conservation strategies could include forest protection and domestication.     Keywords - Botany, leaf architecture, taxonomy, Hoya crassicaulis, Hoya incrassata, Philippines
Cycloaddition and Electrocyclic Reactions of Vinylketenes, Allenylketenes, and Alkynylketenes
Authors: Fu Nanyan , Tidwell Thomas T.
Published: September 2015

Vinylketenes may be prepared by the typical procedures used for other ketenes, and are usually highly reactive, except when bulky groups and silyl substituents are present. They are extensively utilized in cycloaddition reactions and electrocyclizations, including dimerizations, inter‐ and intramolecular reactions with alkenes, alkynes, imines, and carbonyl groups, and intramolecular reactions with aryl and heteroaryl groups. These pericyclic reactions are widely used in syntheses of carbocyclic and heterocyclic products, and are particularly useful for the preparation of β‐lactams and β‐lactones. Allenylketenes and alkynylketenes also undergo cycloaddition and electrocyclic reactions.
Process fault detection using time‐explicit Kiviat diagrams
Authors: Wang Ray C. , Edgar Thomas F. , Baldea Michael , Nixon Mark , Wojsznis Willy , Dunia Ricardo
Published: September 2015

Significant amounts of data are collected and stored during chemical process operations. The corresponding datasets are typically difficult to represent and analyze using traditional visualization methods. This article introduces time‐explicit Kiviat diagrams as a means to visualize the multidimensional time series data acquired from plant operations. This framework is then used to build multivariate control charts for large scale time series datasets, and to develop a fault detection mechanism that lends itself to real‐time implementation. The proposed methodology is applied to an industrial case study as well as to data obtained from the Tennessee Eastman process simulator, showing very good performance. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical EngineersAIChE J, 61: 4277–4293, 2015
Development of a hybrid shrinking‐core shrinking‐particle model for entrained‐flow gasifiers
Authors: Pednekar Pratik , Bhattacharyya Debangsu , Kasule Job S. , Turton Richard , Rengaswamy Raghunathan
Published: September 2015

Slagging entrained‐flow gasifiers operate above the melting temperature of the ash. As slag is highly nonwetting on the surface of char (carbon) particles, it is likely that it will agglomerate into one or several slag droplets and some of these droplets can detach from the char particles. If the slag exists in the form of droplets on the char surface rather than as a solid shell around the unreacted char particle, a shrinking particle model would be more physically realistic representation in comparison to the widely used shrinking core model (SCM). In the early section of the gasifier, the temperature remains below the ash melting temperature and, therefore, the SCM is more appropriate in this region. With this motivation, a novel hybrid shrinking‐core shrinking‐particle model has been developed. The model provides spatial profile of a number of important variables that are not available from the traditional SCM. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 62: 659–669, 2016
Magnetic resonance neurography detects diabetic neuropathy early and with Proximal Predominance
Authors: Pham Mirko , Oikonomou Dimitrios , Hornung Benjamin , Weiler Markus , Heiland Sabine , Bäumer Philipp , Kollmer Jennifer , Nawroth Peter P. , Bendszus Martin
Published: September 2015

Objective

The aim of this work was to localize and quantify alterations of nerve microstructure in diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN) by magnetic resonance (MR) neurography with large anatomical coverage.

Methods

Patients (N = 25) with mild‐to‐moderate (Neuropathy‐Symptom‐Score [NSS]/Neuropathy Deficit Score [NDS] 3.8 ± 0.3/2.6 ± 0.5) and patients (n = 10) with severe DPN (6.2 ± 0.6/7.4 ± 0.5) were compared to patients (n = 15) with diabetes but no DPN and to age‐/sex‐matched nondiabetic controls (n = 25). All subjects underwent MR neurography with large spatial coverage and high resolution from spinal nerve to ankle level: four slabs per leg, each with 35 axial slices (T2‐ and proton‐density–weighted two dimensional turbo‐spin‐echo sequences; voxel size: 0.4 × 0.3 × 3.5 mm3) and a three‐dimensional T2‐weighted sequence to cover spinal nerves and plexus. Nerve segmentation was performed on a total of 280 slices per subject. Nerve lesion voxels were determined independently from operator input by statistical classification against the nondiabetic cohort. At the site with highest lesion‐voxel burden, signal quantification was performed by calculating nerve proton spin density and T2 relaxation time.

Results

Total burden of nerve lesion voxels was significantly increased in DPN (p = 0.003) with strong spatial predominance at thigh level, where average lesion voxel load was significantly higher in severe (57 ± 18.4; p = 0.0022) and in mild‐to‐moderate DPN (35 ± 4.0; p < 0.001) than in controls (18 ± 3.6). Signal quantification at the site of predominant lesion burden (thigh) revealed a significant increase of nerve proton spin density in severe (360 ± 22.9; p = 0.043) and in mild‐to‐moderate DPN (365 ± 15.2; p = 0.001) versus controls (288 ± 13.4), but not of T2 relaxation time (p = 0.49). Nerve proton spin density predicted severity of DPN with an odds ratio of 2.9 (95% confidence interval: 2.4–3.5; p < 0.001) per 100 proton spins.

Interpretation

In DPN, the predominant site of microstructural nerve alteration is at the thigh level with a strong proximal‐to‐distal gradient. Nerve proton spin density at the thigh level is a novel quantitative imaging biomarker of early DPN and increases with neuropathy severity. Ann Neurol 2015;78:939–948
Epilepsy in adults with mitochondrial disease: A cohort study
Authors: Whittaker Roger G. , Devine Helen E. , Gorman Grainne S. , Schaefer Andrew M. , Horvath Rita , Ng Yi , Nesbitt Victoria , Lax Nichola Z. , McFarland Robert , Cunningham Mark O. , Taylor Robert W. , Turnbull Douglass M.
Published: September 2015

Objective

The aim of this work was to determine the prevalence and progression of epilepsy in adult patients with mitochondrial disease.

Methods

We prospectively recruited a cohort of 182 consecutive adult patients attending a specialized mitochondrial disease clinic in Newcastle upon Tyne between January 1, 2005 and January 1, 2008. We then followed this cohort over a 7‐year period, recording primary outcome measures of occurrence of first seizure, status epilepticus, stroke‐like episode, and death.

Results

Overall prevalence of epilepsy in the cohort was 23.1%. Mean age of epilepsy onset was 29.4 years. Prevalence varied widely between genotypes, with several genotypes having no cases of epilepsy, a prevalence of 34.9% in the most common genotype (m.3243A>G mutation), and 92.3% in the m.8344A>G mutation. Among the cohort as a whole, focal seizures, with or without progression to bilateral convulsive seizures, was the most common seizure type. Conversely, all of the patients with the m.8344A>G mutation and epilepsy experienced myoclonic seizures. Patients with the m.3243A>G mutation remain at high risk of developing stroke‐like episodes (1.16% per year). However, although the standardized mortality ratio for the entire cohort was high (2.86), this ratio did not differ significantly between patients with epilepsy (2.96) and those without (2.83).

Interpretation

Epilepsy is a common manifestation of mitochondrial disease. It develops early in the disease and, in the case of the m.3243A>G mutation, often presents in the context of a stroke‐like episode or status epilepticus. However, epilepsy does not itself appear to contribute to the increased mortality in mitochondrial disease. Ann Neurol 2015;78:949–957
CRISPR‐Cas: von einem bakteriellen adaptiven Immunsystem zu einem vielseitigen Werkzeug für die Gentechnik
Authors: Kirchner Marion , Schneider Sabine
Published: September 2015

Der Forschungsbereich der Biologie erfährt zurzeit eine Revolution durch die Weiterentwicklung eines bakteriellen adaptiven Immunsystems zu einem universellen Werkzeug für die Gentechnik. Bakterien und Archaeen benutzen repetitive Teile des Genoms, sogenannte “clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats” (CRISPR), in Kombination mit einer RNA‐abhängigen Nuklease (CRISPR‐associated nuclease=Cas), um in Zellen eindringende DNA zu erkennen und zu zerstören. Indem man die Sequenz der Leit‐RNA (guide‐RNA) passend wählt, kann dieses Zweikomponentensystem verwendet werden, um auf effiziente Weise Genloci in Pflanzen, Insekten, Pilzen, Säugetierzellen und ganzen Organismen zu erreichen oder zu modifizieren. Dies eröffnet ungeahnte Möglichkeiten in der Gentechnik bis hin zur Behandlung oder Heilung von menschlichen Erbkrankheiten. Jetzt rücken die potentiellen Risiken und ethische, soziale und juristische Fragestellungen im Zusammenhang mit dieser mächtigen neuen Technik ins Rampenlicht.
Klassifizierung und Manipulation des synthetischen Potenzials carboxylierender Reduktasen aus dem Zentralmetabolismus und der Polyketid‐Biosynthese
Authors: Peter Dominik M. , Schada von Borzyskowski Lennart , Kiefer Patrick , Christen Philipp , Vorholt Julia A. , Erb Tobias J.
Published: September 2015

Die kürzlich entdeckte Enzymklasse carboxylierender Enoylthioester‐Reduktasen (ECRs) katalysiert die Addition von molekularem CO2 an die Doppelbindung α,β‐ungesättigter CoA‐Thioester. ECRs besitzen zwei bekannte biologische Funktionen. Im Primärstoffwechsel einer Vielzahl Bakterien katalysieren sie die Bildung von Ethylmalonyl‐CoA zur Assimilierung des Zentralmetaboliten Acetyl‐CoA. Im Sekundärstoffwechsel katalysieren sie die Bildung einer Vielzahl verschiedener α‐carboxylierter Acylthioester, die dazu dienen, Variationen in der chemischen Grundstruktur von Polyketid‐Naturstoffen zu erzeugen. In der vorliegenden Arbeit wurde die Substratspezifität verschiedener ECRs mithilfe einer Substratbibliothek systematisch untersucht. Es wurden drei Aminosäuren im aktiven Zentrum von ECRs identifiziert, die ECRs mit eingeschränktem Substratspektrum von ECRs mit einem flexiblen Substratspektrum unterscheiden. Dies wurde experimentell durch das gezielte Design des aktiven Zentrums einer ausgewählten ECR bestätigt. Die vorliegende Studie erklärt die molekulare Grundlage einer Schlüsselreaktion in der Biosynthese von Naturstoffen, was es erlaubt, die Spezifität von ECRs zukünftig nicht nur vorherzusagen, sondern auch gezielt zu manipulieren.
The Development of Fluorescent Probes for Visualizing Intracellular Hydrogen Polysulfides
Authors: Chen Wei , Rosser Ethan W. , Matsunaga Tetsuro , Pacheco Armando , Akaike Takaaki , Xian Ming
Published: September 2015

Endogenous hydrogen polysulfides (H2Sn; n>1) have been recognized as important regulators in sulfur‐related redox biology. H2Sn can activate tumor suppressors, ion channels, and transcription factors with higher potency than H2S. Although H2Sn are drawing increasing attention, their exact mechanisms of action are still poorly understood. A major hurdle in this field is the lack of reliable and convenient methods for H2Sn detection. Herein we report a H2Sn‐mediated benzodithiolone formation under mild conditions. This method takes advantage of the unique dual reactivity of H2Sn as both a nucleophile and an electrophile. Based on this reaction, three fluorescent probes (PSP‐1, PSP‐2, and PSP‐3) were synthesized and evaluated. Among the probes prepared, PSP‐3 showed a desirable off/on fluorescence response to H2Sn and high specificity. The probe was successfully applied in visualizing intracellular H2Sn.
Magnetic Control of Macromolecular Conformations in Supramolecular Anionic Polysaccharide–Iron Complexes
Authors: Schefer Larissa , Bulant Ariane , Zeder Christophe , Saha Abhijit , Mezzenga Raffaele
Published: September 2015

The anionic iota carrageenan polysaccharide is enriched with FeII and FeIII by ion exchange against FeSO4 and FeCl3. With divalent iron, portions of polymer chains undergo a secondary structure transition from random coils to single helices. The single‐chain macromolecular conformations can be manipulated by an external magnetic field: upon exposure to 1.1 T, the helical portions exhibit 1.5‐fold stiffening and 1.1‐fold stretching, whereas the coil conformations respond much less as a result of lower contents of condensed iron ions. Along with the coil–helix transition, the trivalent iron triggers the formation of superstructures. The applicability of iron‐enriched iota carrageenan as functional ingredient for food fortification is tested by free Fe2+ and Fe3+ contents, respectively, with the most promising iota‐FeIII yielding 53 % of bound iron, which is due to the superstructures, where the ferric ions are chelated by the supramolecularly self‐assembled polymer host.
Influence of the polymorphism of cellulose on the formation of nanocrystals and their application in chitosan/nanocellulose composites
Authors: Borysiak Sławomir , Grząbka‐Zasadzińska Aleksandra
Published: September 2015

In this study, we evaluated the physicochemical properties of the chitosan/nanocellulose composites. Wide‐angle X‐ray scattering was applied to define the supermolecular structure of the materials, the laser diffracting technique was used to characterize the particle sizes, and scanning electron microscopy was used to evaluate the morphologies of the samples. The tensile properties of the composite films were also determined. Cellulose pulp was mercerized with 16% sodium hydroxide to give only cellulose II. Cellulose I and cellulose II were subsequently hydrolyzed with 64% sulfuric acid. As a result, nanocellulose I (NCC I) from cellulose I and nanocellulose II (NCC II) from cellulose II were produced. The mercerization of cellulose pulp contributed to a significant particle size reduction; more than 50% of the particles of the NCC II sample and only 36% of the particles of the NCC I sample were smaller than 100 nm. Chitosan composite films containing 5, 10, and 20% w/w of nanocelluloses were prepared by a solvent casting method. This was the first study investigating the influence of the crystallographic forms of cellulose on the formation of nanocrystals. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 42864.
Polymerase Synthesis and Restriction Enzyme Cleavage of DNA Containing 7‐Substituted 7‐Deazaguanine Nucleobases
Authors: Mačková Michaela , Boháčová Soňa , Perlíková Pavla , Poštová Slavětínská Lenka , Hocek Michal
Published: September 2015

Previous studies of polymerase synthesis of base‐modified DNAs and their cleavage by restriction enzymes have mostly related only to 5‐substituted pyrimidine and 7‐substituted 7‐deazaadenine nucleotides. Here we report the synthesis of a series of 7‐substituted 7‐deazaguanine 2′‐deoxyribonucleoside 5′‐O‐triphosphates (dGRTPs), their use as substrates for polymerase synthesis of modified DNA and the influence of the modification on their cleavage by type II restriction endonucleases (REs). The dGRTPs were generally good substrates for polymerases but the PCR products could not be visualised on agarose gels by intercalator staining, due to fluorescence quenching. The presence of 7‐substituted 7‐deazaguanine residues in recognition sequences of REs in most cases completely blocked the cleavage.
Effectiveness of work skills programmes for offenders with mental disorders: A systematic review
Authors: Talbot Emily C. , Völlm Birgit , Khalifa Najat
Published: September 2015

Background

Academic literature and government initiatives have emphasised the importance of work as a means of improving health and reducing reoffending among offenders with mental disorders. Whilst a number of work skills programmes have shown promise for offenders more generally, evaluation of evidence for their effectiveness for those with a mental disorder is lacking, particularly in relation to improving employment outcomes.

Aims

To assess the evidence on the effectiveness of work skills programmes for mentally disordered offenders.

Method

A systematic review of the literature was conducted by searching the following databases: PsycINFO, CINAHL, Cochrane Library (Trials Register), Embase and Medline, using search terms which included Work Skills Programme*, Offend* and Mental*. Any empirical comparison study of work skills programmes was included in this review. The primary outcome was employment. Secondary outcomes included employment outcomes, reoffending, education, mental state, substance misuse, global functioning, quality of life, acceptability, leaving the study early and cost effectiveness or other economic outcomes.

Results

Six articles met the inclusion criteria. Collectively they provided limited evidence that work skills programmes increase the likelihood of people with mental disorder who are offenders obtaining employment in the short term, but there are insufficient studies to determine the long‐term impact of work skills programmes.

Conclusions

There is modest evidence to support inclusion of specific work skills programmes in the treatment of offenders with mental disorder. Future studies should be of theoretically driven programmes, such as Individual Placement Support (IPS), and use a standard set of relevant outcome measures and long enough follow‐up for testing the effectiveness of any programme on engagement in competitive, paid employment as, even if skilled, offenders with mental disorder must constitute a hard to place group. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dioxomolybdenum Complexes as Excellent Catalysts for the Deoxygenation of Aryl Ketones to Aryl Alkenes
Authors: Fernandes Tiago A. , Fernandes Ana C.
Published: September 2015

This work describes a new methodology for the selective deoxygenation of aryl ketones to the corresponding aryl alkenes catalyzed by dioxomolybdenum complexes using silanes as reducing agents. The best results were obtained with the system PhSiH3/MoO2Cl2(H2O)2 (5–10 mol %), which was very efficient for the deoxygenation of a large variety of aryl ketones to alkenes in excellent yields. This new methodology has the advantages of using an inexpensive, environmentally friendly, easily prepared, and air‐stable catalyst in ether solution.