bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemical Behavior and Voltammetric Determination of Curcumin at Electrochemically Reduced Graphene Oxide Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode
Authors: Zhang Dongdong , Ouyang Xiaoyan , Ma Jing , Li Lingzhi , Zhang Yanmin
Published: October 2015

This work presents a sensitive voltammetric method for determination of curcumin by using a electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (ERGO) modified glass carbon electrode (GCE) in 100 mM KCl‐10 mM sodium phosphate buffer solution (pH 7.40). The electrochemical behaviors of curcumin at ERGO/GCE were investigated by cyclic voltammetry, suggesting that the ERGO/GCE exhibits excellent electrocatalytic activity towards curcumin, compared with bare GCE and GO/GCE electrodes. The electrochemical reaction mechanisms of curcumin, demethoxycurcumin and bisdemethoxycurcumin at the ERGO/GCE were also investigated and discussed systematically. Under physiological condition, the modified electrode showed linear voltammetric response from 0.2 μM to 60.0 μM for curcumin, with the detection limit of 0.1 μm. This work demonstrates that the graphene‐modified electrode is a promising strategy for electrochemical determination of biological important phenolic compounds.
Effects of chlorpyrifos on life cycle parameters, cytochrome P450S expression, and antioxidant systems in the monogonont rotifer Brachionus koreanus
Authors: Kim Ryeo-Ok , Kim Bo-Mi , Jeong Chang-Bum , Lee Jae-Seong , Rhee Jae-Sung
Published: October 2015

Chlorpyrifos is a widely used organophosphorus insecticide for controlling diverse insect pests of crops. In the monogonont rotifer Brachionus koreanus, population growth retardation with the inhibition of lifespan, fecundity, and individual body size of ovigerous females was shown over 10 d in response to chlorpyrifos exposure. At the molecular and biochemical levels, the rotifer B. koreanus defensome, composed of cytochrome P450 complements, heat shock protein 70, and antioxidant enzymatic systems (i.e., glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and glutathione S-transferase), was significantly induced in response to different concentrations of chlorpyrifos. Thus, chlorpyrifos strongly induced a defensome system to mitigate the deleterious effects of chlorpyrifos at in vivo and in vitro levels as a trade-off in fitness costs. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:1449–1457. © 2015 SETAC
GREM1 and POLE variants in hereditary colorectal cancer syndromes
Authors: Rohlin Anna , Eiengård Frida , Lundstam Ulf , Zagoras Theofanis , Nilsson Staffan , Edsjö Anders , Pedersen Jan , Svensson Janhenry , Skullman Stefan , Karlsson B. Göran , Björk Jan , Nordling Margareta
Published: October 2015

Hereditary factors are thought to play a role in at least one third of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) but only a limited proportion of these have mutations in known high‐penetrant genes. In a relatively large part of patients with a few or multiple colorectal polyps the underlying genetic cause of the disease is still unknown. Using exome sequencing in combination with linkage analyses together with detection of copy‐number variations (CNV), we have identified a duplication in the regulatory region of the GREM1 gene in a family with an attenuated/atypical polyposis syndrome. In addition, 107 patients with colorectal cancer and/or polyposis were analyzed for mutations in the candidate genes identified. We also performed screening of the exonuclease domain of the POLE gene in a subset of these patients. The duplication of 16 kb in the regulatory region of GREM1 was found to be disease‐causing in the family. Functional analyses revealed a higher expression of the GREM1 gene in colorectal tissue in duplication carriers. Screening of the exonuclease domain of POLE in additional CRC patients identified a probable causative novel variant c.1274A>G, p.Lys425Arg. In conclusion a high penetrant duplication in the regulatory region of GREM1, predisposing to CRC, was identified in a family with attenuated/atypical polyposis. A POLE variant was identified in a patient with early onset CRC and a microsatellite stable (MSS) tumor. Mutations leading to increased expression of genes can constitute disease‐causing mutations in hereditary CRC syndromes. © 2015 The Authors. Genes, Chromosomes & Cancer Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Myelin‐specific T cells induce interleukin‐1beta expression in lesion‐reactive microglial‐like cells in zones of axonal degeneration
Authors: Grebing Manuela , Nielsen Helle H. , Fenger Christina D. , T. Jensen Katrine , von Linstow Christian U. , Clausen Bettina H. , Söderman Martin , Lambertsen Kate L. , Thomassen Mads , Kruse Torben A. , Finsen Bente
Published: October 2015

Infiltration of myelin‐specific T cells into the central nervous system induces the expression of proinflammatory cytokines in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). We have previously shown that myelin‐specific T cells are recruited into zones of axonal degeneration, where they stimulate lesion‐reactive microglia. To gain mechanistic insight, we used RNA microarray analysis to compare the transcript profile in hippocampi from perforant pathway axonal‐lesioned mice with and without adoptively transferred myelin‐specific T cells 2 days postlesion, when microglia are clearly lesion reactive. Pathway analysis revealed that, among the 1,447 differently expressed transcripts, the interleukin (IL)‐1 pathway including all IL‐1 receptor ligands was upregulated in the presence of myelin‐specific T cells. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction showed increased mRNA levels of IL‐1β, IL‐1α, and IL‐1 receptor antagonist in the T‐cell–infiltrated hippocampi from axonal‐lesioned mice. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry showed a T‐cell–enhanced lesion‐specific expression of IL‐1β mRNA and protein, respectively, and induction of the apoptosis‐associated speck‐like protein, ASC, in CD11b+ cells. Double in situ hybridization showed colocalization of IL‐1β mRNA in a subset of CD11b mRNA+ cells, of which many were part of cellular doublets or clusters, characteristic of proliferating, lesion‐reactive microglia. Double‐immunofluorescence showed a T‐cell–enhanced colocalization of IL‐1β to CD11b+ cells, including lesion‐reactive CD11b+ ramified microglia. These results suggest that myelin‐specific T cells stimulate lesion‐reactive microglial‐like cells to produce IL‐1β. These findings are relevant to understand the consequences of T‐cell infiltration in white and gray matter lesions in patients with MS. GLIA 2016;64:407–424
Modulated CMOS camera for fluorescence lifetime microscopy
Authors: Chen Hongtao , Holst Gerhard , Gratton Enrico
Published: October 2015

Widefield frequency‐domain fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FD‐FLIM) is a fast and accurate method to measure the fluorescence lifetime of entire images. However, the complexity and high costs involved in construction of such a system limit the extensive use of this technique. PCO AG recently released the first luminescence lifetime imaging camera based on a high frequency modulated CMOS image sensor, QMFLIM2. Here we tested and provide operational procedures to calibrate the camera and to improve the accuracy using corrections necessary for image analysis. With its flexible input/output options, we are able to use a modulated laser diode or a 20 MHz pulsed white supercontinuum laser as the light source. The output of the camera consists of a stack of modulated images that can be analyzed by the SimFCS software using the phasor approach. The nonuniform system response across the image sensor must be calibrated at the pixel level. This pixel calibration is crucial and needed for every camera settings, e.g. modulation frequency and exposure time. A significant dependency of the modulation signal on the intensity was also observed and hence an additional calibration is needed for each pixel depending on the pixel intensity level. These corrections are important not only for the fundamental frequency, but also for the higher harmonics when using the pulsed supercontinuum laser. With these post data acquisition corrections, the PCO CMOS‐FLIM camera can be used for various biomedical applications requiring a large frame and high speed acquisition. Microsc. Res. Tech. 78:1075–1081, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Micromorphological characterization of zinc/silver particle composite coatings
Authors: Méndez Alia , Reyes Yolanda , Trejo Gabriel , StĘpień Krzysztof , Ţălu Ştefan
Published: October 2015

The aim of this study was to evaluate the three‐dimensional (3D) surface micromorphology of zinc/silver particles (Zn/AgPs) composite coatings with antibacterial activity prepared using an electrodeposition technique. These 3D nanostructures were investigated over square areas of 5 μm × 5 μm by atomic force microscopy (AFM), fractal, and wavelet analysis. The fractal analysis of 3D surface roughness revealed that (Zn/AgPs) composite coatings have fractal geometry. Triangulation method, based on the linear interpolation type, applied for AFM data was employed in order to characterise the surfaces topographically (in amplitude, spatial distribution and pattern of surface characteristics). The surface fractal dimension Df, as well as height values distribution have been determined for the 3D nanostructure surfaces. Microsc. Res. Tech. 78:1082–1089, 2015. © 2015 The Authors published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Resin luting materials: Tissue response in dog's teeth
Authors: Bezzon Osvaldo L. , Rivera Daniella S. H. , Silva Raquel A. B. , Oliveira Daniela S. B. , Silva‐herzog Daniel , Nelson‐filho Paulo , lucisano Marília P. , Silva Léa A. B.
Published: October 2015

The aim of this study was to evaluate radiographically and histologically the pulpal and periapical response to self‐adhesive (Rely X™ Unicem) and self‐etching and self‐curing (Multilink®) resin‐based luting materials in deep cavities in dogs' teeth. Deep class V cavities (0.5‐mm–thick dentin) were prepared in 60 canine premolars and the following materials were applied on cavity floor: Groups I/V—RelyX™ Unicem; Groups II/VI—Multilink®; Groups III/VII—zinc phosphate cement (control) and; Groups IV/VIII—gutta‐percha (control). Cavities were restored with silver amalgam. Animals were euthanized after 10 days (groups I–IV) and 90 days (groups V–VIII). Tooth/bone blocks were radiographed and processed for histopathological evaluation of pulp and periapical tissue response to the materials. All materials presented similar histopathological features and radiographic findings at both periods. The pulp tissue was intact. The apical and periapical regions and periodontal ligament thickness were normal. No inflammatory cells, resorption of mineralized tissue (dentin, cementum, and alveolar bone) or bacteria were observed. The lamina dura was intact and no areas of periapical bone rarefaction or internal/external root resorption were observed radiographically. It can be concluded that Rely X™ Unicem and Multilink®caused no adverse tissue reactions and may be indicated for cementation of indirect restorations in deep dentin cavities without pulp exposure.Microsc. Res. Tech. 78:1098–1103, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Uniform attractor for non‐autonomous Boussinesq‐type equation with critical nonlinearity
Authors: Yang Xinguang , Fan Zhaohui , Li Ke
Published: October 2015

In this paper, we study the longtime dynamics of the non‐autonomous Boussinesq‐type equation with critical nonlinearity, and time‐dependent external forcing, which is translation bounded but not translation compact. We prove the existence of a uniform attractor in
. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Contact fault characterisation of complex silicon solar cells: a guideline based on current voltage characteristics and luminescence imaging
Authors: Padilla Milan , Reichel Christian , Hagedorn Nikolaus , Fell Andreas , Keding Roman , Michl Bernhard , Kasemann Martin , Warta Wilhelm , Schubert Martin C.
Published: October 2015

Highest efficiency solar cells in industrial and R&D environments are increasingly sensitive to local performance limiting processing faults, which are best characterised by spatially resolved characterisation techniques. This work contains a discussion on the processing faults related to contact resistance and finger interruptions in interdigitated back contact silicon solar cells, which are prime example for a complex cell structure. Using experimental and simulated current–voltage measurements and luminescence images, we explore the strongly non‐linear effect of poor local contact resistances on the global series resistance, fill factor, short circuit current density and efficiency. A good agreement between global and spatially resolved characterisation of faults is found, and potential artefacts are discussed. In conclusion, we present seven cases of contacting faults in interdigitated back contact cells with distinct characteristics that can be identified using a flow chart of experiments. The resulting guideline should assist silicon solar cell manufacturers in localising and quantifying local contacting faults that reduce the cells efficiency in manufacturing of complex solar cells. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Intrathymic and other anomalous courses of the left brachiocephalic vein in the fetus
Authors: Karl K. , Sinkovskaya E. , Abuhamad A. , Chaoui R.
Published: October 2015

Objective

The left brachiocephalic vein (LBCV), or innominate vein, connects the left jugular vein to the right superior vena cava. Its course is posterior to the thymus and directly anterior and superior to the aortic arch. Pediatric and adult cardiology studies have reported on the subaortic or retrotracheal courses of the LBCV and the presence of double LBCV. We observed recently in the fetus that the LBCV may have a course through the thymus (intrathymic) or be absent in the presence of a left superior vena cava. The aim of this study was to report the prevalence of isolated intrathymic and absent LBCV in normal fetuses undergoing second‐trimester ultrasound screening, as well as the prevalence of other courses in association with cardiac anomalies.

Methods

In the prospective part of this study, consecutive second‐trimester ultrasound examinations were evaluated to assess the presence and course of the fetal LBCV. In the retrospective case–control part of this study, the databases of two fetal medicine centers were reviewed for cardiac anomalies and the pattern and prevalence of anomalous courses of the LBCV were reported.

Results

One thousand four hundred and eighteen consecutive fetuses were examined prospectively. An intrathymic course of the LBCV with a typical bent shape was found in 1.76% (1 : 57) of cases and the absence of a LBCV in association with a persistent left superior vena cava (LSVC) was found in 0.28% (1 : 350). All fetuses with an isolated intrathymic course or absence of the LBCV had a normal outcome. Over a period of 4.5 years, a total of 1544 fetuses with cardiac malformations were reviewed at two centers. Among these, an anomalous course of the LBCV was noted in eight (0.5%) cases: six subaortic, one retrotracheal and one double LBCV.

Conclusion

An intrathymic LBCV is a common condition and appears to be a normal variant in the fetus. The prevalence of a LSVC in our screening population was similar to that reported in previous studies. Anomalous courses of the LBCV are seen occasionally in cases with cardiac malformation. Copyright © 2015 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Thallium‐201 is comparable to technetium‐99m‐sestamibi for estimating cardiac function in patients with abnormal myocardial perfusion imaging
Authors: Wu Ming‐Che , Tsai Cheng‐Ting , Lin Hui‐Chun , Sun Fang‐Ju , Lin Ku‐Hung
Published: October 2015

We analyzed the left‐ventricular functional data obtained by cardiac‐gated single‐photon emission computed tomography myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) with thallium‐201 (Tl‐201) and technetium‐99m‐sestamibi (MIBI) protocols in different groups of patients, and compared the data between Tl‐201 and MIBI. Two hundred and seventy‐two patients undergoing dipyridamole stress/redistribution Tl‐201 MPI and 563 patients undergoing 1‐day rest/dipyridamole stress MIBI MPI were included. Higher mean stress ejection fraction (EF), rest EF, and change in EF (ΔEF) were noticed in the normal MPI groups by both Tl‐201 and MIBI protocols. Higher mean EF was observed in the females with normal MPI results despite their higher mean age. Comparisons between the Tl‐201 and MIBI groups suggested a significant difference in all functional parameters, except for the rest end diastolic volume/end systolic volume and ΔEF between groups with negative MPI results. For the positive MPI groups, there was no significant difference in all parameters, except for the change in end diastolic volume and change in end systolic volume after stress between both protocols. The Tl‐201 provides comparable left‐ventricular functional data to MIBI cardiac‐gated single‐photon emission computed tomography in patients with positive MPI results, and may therefore be undertaken routinely for incremental functional information that is especially valuable to this patient group.
How much can lack of marketability affect private equity fund values?
Authors: Buchner Axel
Published: October 2015

This paper derives an upper bound on the discounts for lack of marketability of private equity funds using option‐pricing theory. The upper bound is a function of the volatility of the fund returns, of the (remaining) lifetime of the fund, of two parameters governing the speed of capital drawdowns and distributions, of the volatility of the stock market returns, and of the return correlation between the fund and the stock market. The model calibration and numerical analysis deliver several novel insights about how non‐marketability affects the value: (i) upper boundary discounts are increasing functions of the return volatility of the fund, of the return volatility of the stock market, and of the average time over which a dollar committed remains invested in the fund; (ii) upper boundary discounts decrease non‐linearly over the finite lifetime of a fund; (iii) estimated upper boundary discounts at the start of an average private equity fund equal $35.3 relative to $100 committed, which corresponds to an annual upper boundary return premium demanded for lack of marketability of around 7%; and (iv) estimated upper boundary discounts of venture and buyout funds are around the same magnitude, though, discounts of venture capital funds are slightly higher.
Hydrological dynamics and fire history of the last 1300 years in western Siberia reconstructed from a high-resolution, ombrotrophic peat archive
Authors: Lamentowicz Mariusz , Słowiński Michał , Marcisz Katarzyna , Zielińska Małgorzata , Kaliszan Karolina , Lapshina Elena , Gilbert Daniel , Buttler Alexandre , Fiałkiewicz-Kozieł Barbara , Jassey Vincent E.J. , Laggoun-Defarge Fatima , Kołaczek Piotr
Published: October 2015

Siberian peatlands provide records of past changes in the continental climate of Eurasia. We analyzed a core from Mukhrino mire in western Siberia to reconstruct environmental change in this region over the last 1300 years. The pollen analysis revealed little variation of local pine-birch forests. A testate amoebae transfer function was used to generate a quantitative water-table reconstruction; pollen, plant macrofossils, and charcoal were analyzed to reconstruct changes in vegetation and fire activity. The study revealed that Mukhrino mire was wet until the Little Ice Age (LIA), when drought was recorded. Dry conditions during the LIA are consistent with other studies from central and eastern Europe, and with the pattern of carbon accumulation across the Northern Hemisphere. A significant increase in fire activity between ca. AD 1975 and 1990 may be associated with the development of the nearby city of Khanty-Mansiysk, as well as with the prevailing positive Arctic Oscillation.
Sensitivity of wetland hydrology to external climate forcing in central Florida
Authors: Lammertsma Emmy I. , Donders Timme H. , Pearce Christof , Cremer Holger , Gaiser Evelyn E. , Wagner-Cremer Friederike
Published: October 2015

Available proxy records from the Florida peninsula give a varying view on hydrological changes during the late Holocene. Here we evaluate the consistency and sensitivity of local wetland records in relation to hydrological changes over the past ~ 5 ka based on pollen and diatom proxies from peat cores in Highlands Hammock State Park, central Florida. Around 5 cal ka BP, a dynamic floodplain environment is present. Subsequently, a wetland forest establishes, followed by a change to persistent wet conditions between ~ 2.5 and 2.0 ka. Long hydroperiods remain despite gradual succession and basin infilling with maximum wet conditions between ~ 1.3 and 1.0 ka. The wet phase and subsequent strong drying over the last millennium, as indicated by shifts in both pollen and diatom assemblages, can be linked to the early Medieval Warm Period and Little Ice Age, respectively, driven by regionally higher sea-surface temperatures and a temporary northward migration of the Intertropical Convergence Zone. Changes during the 20th century are the result of constructions intended to protect the Highlands Hammock State Park from wildfires. The multiple cores and proxies allow distinguishing local and regional hydrological changes. The peat records reflect relatively subtle climatic changes that are not evident from regional pollen records from lakes.
Glycosomal bromodomain factor 1 from Trypanosoma cruzi enhances trypomastigote cell infection and intracellular amastigote growth
Authors: Ritagliati Carla , Villanova Gabriela Vanina , Alonso Victoria Lucia , Zuma Aline Araujo , Cribb Pamela , Motta María Cristina Machado , Serra Esteban Carlos
Published: October 2015

Acetylation is a ubiquitous protein modification present in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells that participates in the regulation of many cellular processes. The bromodomain is the only domain known to bind acetylated lysine residues. In the last few years, many bromodomain inhibitors have been developed in order to treat diseases caused by aberrant acetylation of lysine residues and have been tested as anti-parasitic drugs. In the present paper, we report the first characterization of Trypanosoma cruzi bromodomain factor 1 (TcBDF1). TcBDF1 is expressed in all life cycle stages, but it is developmentally regulated. It localizes in the glycosomes directed by a PTS2 (peroxisome-targeting signal 2) sequence. The overexpression of wild-type TcBDF1 is detrimental for epimastigotes, but it enhances the infectivity rate of trypomastigotes and the replication of amastigotes. On the other hand, the overexpression of a mutated version of TcBDF1 has no effect on epimastigotes, but it does negatively affect trypomastigotes' infection and amastigotes' replication.
Induction of caspase-dependent extrinsic apoptosis by apigenin through inhibition of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signalling in HER2-overexpressing BT-474 breast cancer cells
Authors: Seo Hye-Sook , Jo Jae Kyung , Ku Jin Mo , Choi Han-Seok , Choi Youn Kyung , Woo Jong-Kyu , Kim Hyo in , Kang Soo-yeon , Lee Kang min , Nam Koong Won , Park Namkyu , Jang Bo-Hyoung , Shin Yong Cheol , Ko Seong-Gyu
Published: October 2015

Phytoestrogen intake is known to be beneficial to decrease breast cancer incidence and progression. But its molecular mechanisms of action are still unknown. The present study aimed to examine the effect of apigenin on proliferation and apoptosis in HER2-expressing breast cancer cells. In our experiments, apigenin inhibited the proliferation of BT-474 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Apigenin also inhibited clonogenic survival (anchorage-dependent and -independent) of BT-474 cells in a dose-dependent manner. These growth inhibitions were accompanied with an increase in sub-G0/G1 apoptotic populations. Apigenin-induced extrinsic a caspase-dependent apoptosis up-regulating the levels of cleaved caspase-8 and cleaved caspase-3, and inducing the cleavage of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). Whereas, apigenin did not induce apoptosis via intrinsic mitochondrial apoptosis pathway since this compound did not decrease mitochondrial membrane potential without affecting the levels of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) and Bcl-2-associated X protein (BAX). Apigenin reduced the expression of phospho-JAK1, phospho-JAK2 and phospho-STAT3 and decreased signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) dependent luciferase reporter gene activity in BT-474 cells. Apigenin inhibited CoCl2-induced VEGF secretion and decreased the nuclear translocation of STAT3. Our study indicates that apigenin induces apoptosis through inhibition of STAT3 signalling and could serve as a useful compound to prevent or treat HER2-overexpressing breast cancer.
Early Language Intervention Using Distance Video-Teleconferencing: A Pilot Study of Young Boys With Fragile X Syndrome and Their Mothers
Authors: McDuffie Andrea , Oakes Ashley , Machalicek Wendy , Ma Monica , Bullard Lauren , Nelson Sarah , Abbeduto Leonard
Published: October 2015

Purpose

This study examined the effects of a naturalistic parent-implemented language intervention on the use of verbally responsive language by mothers of 6 young boys with fragile X syndrome. The intervention included parent education sessions and clinician coaching delivered onsite and by distance video-teleconferencing.

Method

A single-case multiple baseline across participants was used to examine intervention effects on maternal use of language support strategies. A nonparametric analysis was used to evaluate the relative effectiveness of onsite compared with distance coaching sessions.

Results

Mothers increased their use of utterances that followed into their child's focus of attention and prompted child communication acts. Intervention effects were not observed for maternal contingent responses to child communication, possibly due to the limited number of spontaneous communication acts children produced. Children showed moderate increases in the use of prompted communication acts, whereas intervention effects on spontaneous communication acts were more modest and variable. Comparable increases in maternal strategy use were observed during onsite and distance sessions.

Conclusions

No previous study has examined a distance-delivered parent-implemented language intervention for young boys with fragile X syndrome. Mothers were able to increase their use of verbally responsive language. Intervention efficacy might be enhanced by incorporating an augmentative and alternative communication device for some children and a more concerted focus on increasing the frequency of child communication acts. Findings provide preliminary support for the efficacy of the distance delivery format.
A spherically symmetric bound state of the coupled Maxwell-Dirac equations with self-interaction alone
Authors: Bradford R. A. W.
Published: October 2015

Stationary, static, spherically symmetric solutions of the Maxwell-Dirac system, treated as classical fields, have been found which are localised and normalisable. The solutions apply to any bound energy eigenvalue in the range 0 < E < m, where m is the bare mass in the Dirac equation. A point charge of any magnitude and either sign may be placed at the origin and the solutions remain well behaved and bound. However, no such central charge is necessary to result in a bound solution. As found previously by Radford, the magnetic flux density is equal to that of a monopole at the origin. However, no monopole is present, the magnetic flux being a result of the dipole moment distribution of the Dirac field. The Dirac field magnetic dipole moment is aligned with the magnetic flux density and so the resulting magnetic self-energy is negative. It is this which results in the states being bound (E < m). The case which omits any central point charge is therefore a self-sustaining bound state solution of the Maxwell-Dirac system which is localised, normalisable, and requires no arbitrarily added “external” features (i.e., it is a soliton). As far as the author is aware, this is the first time that such an exact solution with a positive energy eigenvalue has been reported. However, the solution is not unique since the energy eigenvalue is arbitrary within the range 0 < E < m. The stability of the solution has not been addressed.
Interpretation of the photoelectron, ultraviolet, and vacuum ultraviolet photoabsorption spectra of bromobenzene by ab initio configuration interaction and DFT computations
Authors: Palmer Michael H. , Ridley Trevor , Hoffmann Søren Vrønning , Jones Nykola C. , Coreno Marcello , de Simone Monica , Grazioli Cesare , Zhang Teng , Biczysko Malgorzata , Baiardi Alberto , Peterson Kirk
Published: October 2015

New photoelectron, ultraviolet (UV), and vacuum UV (VUV) spectra have been obtained for bromobenzene by synchrotron study with higher sensitivity and resolution than previous work. This, together with use of ab initio calculations with both configuration interaction and time dependent density functional theoretical methods, has led to major advances in interpretation. The VUV spectrum has led to identification of a considerable number of Rydberg states for the first time. The Franck-Condon (FC) analyses including both hot and cold bands lead to identification of the vibrational structure of both ionic and electronically excited states including two Rydberg states. The UV onset has been interpreted in some detail, and an interpretation based on the superposition of FC and Herzberg-Teller contributions has been performed. In a similar way, the 6 eV absorption band which is poorly resolved is analysed in terms of the presence of two ππ* states of 1A1 (higher oscillator strength) and 1B2 (lower oscillator strength) symmetries, respectively. The detailed analysis of the vibrational structure of the 22B1 ionic state is particularly challenging, and the best interpretation is based on equation-of-motion-coupled cluster with singles and doubles computations. A number of equilibrium structures of the ionic and singlet excited states show that the molecular structure is less subject to variation than corresponding studies for iodobenzene. The equilibrium structures of the 3b13s and 6b23s (valence shell numbering) Rydberg states have been obtained and compared with the corresponding ionic limit structures.
Local equilibrium and the second law of thermodynamics for irreversible systems with thermodynamic inertia
Authors: Glavatskiy K. S.
Published: October 2015

Validity of local equilibrium has been questioned for non-equilibrium systems which are characterized by delayed response. In particular, for systems with non-zero thermodynamic inertia, the assumption of local equilibrium leads to negative values of the entropy production, which is in contradiction with the second law of thermodynamics. In this paper, we address this question by suggesting a variational formulation of irreversible evolution of a system with non-zero thermodynamic inertia. We introduce the Lagrangian, which depends on the properties of the normal and the so-called “mirror-image” systems. We show that the standard evolution equations, in particular, the Maxwell-Cattaneo-Vernotte equation, can be derived from the variational procedure without going beyond the assumption of local equilibrium. We also argue that the second law of thermodynamics in non-equilibrium should be understood as a consequence of the variational procedure and the property of local equilibrium. For systems with instantaneous response this leads to the standard requirement of the local instantaneous entropy production being always positive. However, if a system is characterized by delayed response, the formulation of the second law of thermodynamics should be altered. In particular, the quantity, which is always positive, is not the instantaneous entropy production, but the entropy production averaged over a proper time interval.
Mechanism of abnormally slow crystal growth of CuZr alloy
Authors: Yan X. Q. , Lü Y. J.
Published: October 2015

Crystal growth of the glass-forming CuZr alloy is shown to be abnormally slow, which suggests a new method to identify the good glass-forming alloys. The crystal growth of elemental Cu, Pd and binary NiAl, CuZr alloys is systematically studied with the aid of molecular dynamics simulations. The temperature dependence of the growth velocity indicates the different growth mechanisms between the elemental and the alloy systems. The high-speed growth featuring the elemental metals is dominated by the non-activated collision between liquid-like atoms and interface, and the low-speed growth for NiAl and CuZr is determined by the diffusion across the interface. We find that, in contrast to Cu, Pd, and NiAl, a strong stress layering arisen from the density and the local order layering forms in front of the liquid-crystal interface of CuZr alloy, which causes a slow diffusion zone. The formation of the slow diffusion zone suppresses the interface moving, resulting in much small growth velocity of CuZr alloy. We provide a direct evidence of this explanation by applying the compressive stress normal to the interface. The compression is shown to boost the stress layering in CuZr significantly, correspondingly enhancing the slow diffusion zone, and eventually slowing down the crystal growth of CuZr alloy immediately. In contrast, the growth of Cu, Pd, and NiAl is increased by the compression because the low diffusion zones in them are never well developed.
Switchable photovoltaic and polarization modulated rectification in Si-integrated Pt/(Bi0.9Sm0.1)(Fe0.97Hf0.03)O3/LaNiO3 heterostructures
Authors: Agarwal Radhe , Sharma Yogesh , Katiyar Ram S.
Published: October 2015

We studied switchable photovoltaic and photo-diode characteristics of Pt/(Bi0.9Sm0.1)(Fe0.97Hf0.03)O3/ LaNiO3 (Pt/BSFHO/LNO) heterostructures integrated on Si (100). The directions of photocurrent (JSC) and rectification are found to be reversibly switchable after applying external poling voltages. In pristine state, metal-ferroelectric-metal capacitor Pt/BSFHO/LNO shows JSC ∼ 32 μA/cm2 and VOC ∼ 0.04 V, which increase to maximum value of JSC  ∼  303 (−206) μA/cm2 and VOC ∼ −0.32 (0.26) V after upward (downward) poling at ±8 V. We believe that Schottky barrier modulation by polarization flipping at Pt/BSFHO interface could be a main driving force behind switchable photovoltaic and rectifying diode characteristics of Pt/BSFHO/LNO heterostructures.
Health-related quality of life and psychological functioning in patients with primary malignant brain tumors: a systematic review of clinical, demographic and mental health factors
Authors: Baker Paul D. , Bambrough Jacki , Fox John R. E. , Kyle Simon D.
Published: October 2015

Background

The impact of primary malignant brain tumors on patient quality of life and psychological functioning is poorly understood, limiting the development of an evidence base for supportive interventions. We conducted a thorough systematic review and quality appraisal of the relevant literature to identify correlates of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and psychological functioning (depression, anxiety and distress) in adults with primary malignant brain tumors.

Method

Twenty-three articles met predefined inclusion criteria from a pool of peer-reviewed literature published between January 1984 and July 2015 (N = 2407). Methodological quality of included studies was assessed using an adapted version of the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

Results

The overall methodological quality of the literature was moderate. Factors relating consistently with HRQoL and/or psychological functioning were cognitive impairment, corticosteroid use, current or previous mental health difficulties, fatigue, functional impairment, performance status and motor impairment.

Conclusions

Practitioners should remain alert to the presence of these factors as they may indicate patients at greater risk of poor HRQoL and psychological functioning. Attention should be directed towards improving patients' psychological functioning and maximizing functional independence to promote HRQoL. We outline several areas of future research with emphasis on improved methodological rigor.
Number density distribution of near-infrared sources on a sub-degree scale in the Galactic center: Comparison with the Fe xxv Kα line at 6.7 keV
Authors: Yasui Kazuki , Nishiyama Shogo , Yoshikawa Tatsuhito , Nagatomo Schun , Uchiyama Hideki , Tsuru Takeshi Go , Koyama Katsuji , Tamura Motohide , Kwon Jungmi , Sugitani Koji , Schödel Rainer , Nagata Tetsuya
Published: October 2015

The stellar distribution derived from an H- and KS-band survey of the central region of our Galaxy is compared with the Fe xxv Kα (6.7 keV) line intensity observed with the Suzaku satellite. The survey is for the galactic coordinates |l| ≲ 3$_{.}^{\circ}$0 and |b | ≲ 1$_{.}^{\circ}$0 (equivalent to 0.8 kpc × 0.3 kpc for R⊙ = 8 kpc), and the number-density distribution N(KS,0; l, b) of stars is derived by using the extinction-corrected magnitude KS,0 = 10.5. This is deep enough to probe the old red-giant population and in turn to estimate the (l, b) distribution of faint X-ray point sources such as coronally active binaries and cataclysmic variables. In the Galactic plane (b = 0°), N(10.5; l, b) increases in the direction of the Galactic center as |l|−0.30±0.03 in the range of − 0$_{.}^{\circ}$1 ≥ l ≥ − 0$_{.}^{\circ}$7, but this increase is significantly slower than the increase (|l|−0.44±0.02) of the Fe xxv Kα line intensity. If normalized with the ratios in the outer region 1$_{.}^{\circ}$5 ≤ |l| ≤ 2$_{.}^{\circ}$8, where faint X-ray point sources are argued to dominate the diffuse Galactic X-ray ridge emission, the excess of the Fe xxv Kα line intensity over the stellar number density is at least a factor of two at |l| = 0$_{.}^{\circ}$1. This indicates that a significant part of the Galactic-center diffuse emission arises from a truly diffuse optically thin thermal plasma, and not from an unresolved collection of faint X-ray point sources related to the old stellar population.
Nurses’ Experiences in Safe Handling of Chemotherapeutic Agents
Authors: Chen Hai-chiao , Lu Zxy-yann Jane , Lee Shu-Hui
Published: October 2015

Background:

Nurses are the least compliant with the guidelines for use of personal protective equipment (PPE) among health professionals. While the literature regarding nurses not following the guidelines focuses on nonuse of PPE, the experiences of using PPE from nurses’ perspectives have not been examined.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to explore the concerns of nurses regarding their decision to use or not to use PPE in the cultural context of Taiwan.

Methods:

An ethnographic design was used, and ethnographic interviews of 57 nurses working with chemotherapy for more than 2 years were conducted. The participating nurses were observed in 2 accredited medical centers with oncology care teams in Taiwan. The constant comparison method was applied for data analysis, and cultural themes were generated from all transcripts.

Results:

Wearing PPE was identified as an obstacle to professional image and performance. Nurses transformed safety into efficiency and prioritized social roles over professional roles. Experienced nurses, as insiders, believed that they have gained clinical wisdom to avoid occupational exposure to chemotherapy toxicity.

Conclusions:

This study explored the characteristics of clinical wisdom regarding PPE use in the context of Taiwanese chemotherapy care. Perceived professional image, efficiency on the job, PPE cost, and hospital rules influenced the use or nonuse of PPE by oncology care nurses.

Implications for Practice:

Acceptable nurse-patient ratios and refraining from chemotherapy toxicity exposure for pregnant and breast-feeding women are advocated for policy making. The experiential expertise of nurses should be shared as credible evidence in developing guidelines.
AN EXTENSION OF THE FRI FRAMEWORK FOR CALCIUM TRANSIENT DETECTION
Authors: Reynolds Stephanie , Copeland Caroline S , Schultz Simon R , Dragotti Pier Luigi
Published: October 2015

Two-photon calcium imaging of the brain allows the spatiotemporal activity of neuronal networks to be monitored at cellular resolution. In order to analyse this activity it must first be possible to detect, with high temporal resolution, spikes from the time series corresponding to single neurons. Previous work has shown that finite rate of innovation (FRI) theory can be used to reconstruct spike trains from noisy calcium imaging data. In this paper we extend the FRI framework for spike detection from calcium imaging data to encompass data generated by a larger class of calcium indicators, including the genetically encoded indicator GCaMP6s. Furthermore, we implement least squares model-order estimation and perform a noise reduction procedure ('pre-whitening') in order to increase the robustness of the algorithm. We demonstrate high spike detection performance on real data generated by GCaMP6s, detecting 90% of electrophysiologically-validated spikes.
Structural investigation of mMNi(II) complex isomers using transmission XAFS: the significance of model development
Authors: Islam M. Tauhidul , Chantler Christopher T. , Cheah Mun Hon , Tantau Lachlan J. , Tran Chanh Q. , Best Stephen P.
Published: October 2015

High-accuracy transmission XAFS determined using the hybrid technique has been used to refine the geometries of bis(N-n-propyl-salicylaldiminato) nickel(II) (n-pr Ni) and bis(N-i-propyl-salicylaldiminato) nickel(II) (i-pr Ni) complexes which have approximately square planar and tetrahedral metal coordination. Multiple-scattering formalisms embedded inFEFFwere used for XAFS modelling of the complexes. Here it is shown that anIFEFFIT-like package using weighting from experimental uncertainty converges to a well defined XAFS model. Structural refinement of (i-pr Ni) was found to yield a distorted tetrahedral geometry providing an excellent fit, χr2= 2.94. The structure of (n-pr Ni) is best modelled with a distorted square planar geometry, χr2= 3.27. This study demonstrates the insight that can be obtained from the propagation of uncertainty in XAFS analysis and the consequent confidence which can be obtained in hypothesis testing and in analysis of alternate structuresab initio. It also demonstrates the limitations of this (or any other) data set by defining the point at which signal becomes embedded in noise or amplified uncertainty, and hence can justify the use of a particulark-range for one data set or a different range for another. It is demonstrated that, with careful attention to data collection, including the correction of systematic errors with statistical analysis of uncertainty (the hybrid method), it is possible to obtain reliable structural information from dilute solutions using transmission XAFS data.
Crystal structure of 3-bromopyridineN-oxide
Authors: Hutchinson Matthew G. , Lynch Will E. , Padgett Clifford W.
Published: October 2015

In the title compound, C5H4BrNO, there are two molecules in the asymmetric unit that are related by a pseudo-inversion center. The two independent molecules are approximately planar, with an observed (ring–ring) angle of 5.49 (13)°. The crystal structure exhibits a herringbone pattern with the zigzag running along theb-axis direction. The least-squares plane containing the rings of both asymmetric molecules and the plane containing the symmetrically related molecules make a plane–plane angle of 66.69 (10)°, which makes the bend of the herringbone pattern. The bromo group on one molecule points to the bromo group on the neighboring molecule, with a Br...Br intermolecular distance of 4.0408 (16) Å. The herringbone layer-to-layer distance is 3.431 (4) Å with a shift of 1.742 (7) Å. There are no short contacts, hydrogen bonds, or π–π interactions.
Crystal structure of 2-(3-nitrophenyl)-1,3-thiazolo[4,5-b]pyridine
Authors: El-Hiti Gamal A. , Smith Keith , Hegazy Amany S. , Ajarim Mansour D. , Kariuki Benson M.
Published: October 2015

In the title compound, C12H7N3O2S, the dihedral angle between the planes of the thiazolopyridine ring system (r.m.s. deviation = 0.005 Å) and the benzene ring is 3.94 (6)°. The nitro group is rotated by 7.6 (2)° from its attached ring. In the crystal, extensive aromatic π–π stacking [shortest centroid–centroid separation = 3.5295 (9) Å] links the molecules into (001) sheets.
Crystal structure of 2-fluoro-N-(1,3-thiazol-2-yl)benzamide
Authors: Moreno-Fuquen Rodolfo , Castillo Juan C. , Becerra Diana , Camargo Hernando , Henao José A.
Published: October 2015

In the title compound, C10H7FN2OS, the mean plane of the central amide fragment (r.m.s. deviation = 0.048 Å) makes dihedral angles of 35.28 (8) and 10.14 (12)° with those of the fluorobenzene and thiazole rings, respectively. The thiazole S and amide O atoms lie to the same side of the molecule. In the crystal, pairs of N—H...N hydrogen bonds connect the molecules into inversion dimers withR22(8) motifs, and weak C—H...O interactions connect the molecules intoC(6) [001] chains. Together, the N—H...N and C—H...O hydrogen bonds generate (100) sheets.
Crystal structure of diethyl (E)-2-[(benzofuran-2-yl)methylidene]succinate
Authors: Schirmer Marie-Luis , Spannenberg Anke , Werner Thomas
Published: October 2015

The title compound, C17H18O5, was synthesized by a base-free catalytic Wittig reaction. The molecule consists of a diethyl itaconate unit, which is connectedviathe C=C double bond to a benzofuran moiety. The benzofuran ring system (r.m.s. deviation = 0.007 Å) forms dihedral angles of 79.58 (4) and 12.12 (10)° with the mean planes through thecisandtransethoxycarbonyl groups, respectively. An intramolecular C—H...O hydrogen bond involving the O atom of the benzofuran moiety is observed. In the crystal, molecules are linked into ribbons running parallel to thebaxis by C—H...O hydrogen bonds.
Crystal structure ofcyclo-tris(μ-3,4,5,6-tetrafluoro-o-phenylene-κ2C1:C2)trimercury–tetracyanoethylene (1/1)
Authors: Castañeda Raúl , Timofeeva Tatiana V. , Khrustalev Victor N.
Published: October 2015

The title compound, [Hg3(C6F4)3]·C6N4, contains one molecule of tetracyanoethyleneBper one molecule of mercury macrocycleA,i.e.,A•B, and crystallizes in the monoclinic space groupC2/c. MacrocycleAand moleculeBboth occupy special positions on a twofold rotation axis and the inversion centre, respectively. The supramolecular unit [A•B] is built by the simultaneous coordination of one of the nitrile N atoms ofBto the three mercury atoms of the macrocycleA. The Hg...N distances range from 2.990 (4) to 3.030 (4) Å and are very close to those observed in the related adducts of the macrocycleAwith other nitrile derivatives. The molecule ofBis almost perpendicular to the mean plane of the macrocycleAat the dihedral angle of 88.20 (5)°. The donor–acceptor Hg...N interactions do not affect the C[triple-bond]N bond lengths [1.136 (6) and 1.140 (6) Å]. Thetransnitrile group ofBcoordinates to another macrocycleA, forming an infinite mixed-stack [A•B]∞architecture toward [101]. The remaining N atoms of two nitrile groups ofBare not engaged in any donor–acceptor interactions. In the crystal, the mixed stacks are held together by intermolecular C—F...C[triple-bond]N secondary interactions [2.846 (5)–2.925 (5) Å].
Synthesis and structural studies of a new complex ofcatena-poly[p-anisidinium [[diiodidobismuthate(III)]-di-μ-iodido] dihydrate]
Authors: Touati Mohamed El Mehdi , Elleuch S. , Boughzala Habib
Published: October 2015

A new organic–inorganic hybrid material, {(C7H10NO)[BiI4]·2H2O}n, has been synthesized by slow evaporation of an aqueous solution at room temperature. The anionic sublattice of the crystal is built up by [BiI6] octahedra sharing edges. The resulting zigzag chains extend along thea-axis direction and are arranged in a distorted hexagonal rod packing. Thep-anisidinium cations and the water molecules are located in the voids of the anionic sublattice. The cations are linked to each other through N—H...O hydrogen bonds with the water molecules, and also through weaker N—H...I interactions to the anionic inorganic layers.