bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Boring sponges, an increasing threat for coral reefs affected by bleaching events
Authors: Carballo José L. , Bautista Eric , Nava Héctor , Cruz‐Barraza José A. , Chávez Jesus A.
Published: March 2013

Coral bleaching is a stress response of corals induced by a variety of factors, but these events have become more frequent and intense in response to recent climate‐change‐related temperature anomalies. We tested the hypothesis that coral reefs affected by bleaching events are currently heavily infested by boring sponges, which are playing a significant role in the destruction of their physical structure. Seventeen reefs that cover the entire distributional range of corals along the Mexican Pacific coast were studied between 2005/2006, and later between 2009/2010. Most of these coral reefs were previously impacted by bleaching events, which resulted in coral mortalities. Sponge abundance and species richness was used as an indicator of bioerosion, and coral cover was used to describe the present condition of coral reefs. Coral reefs are currently highly invaded (46% of the samples examined) by a very high diversity of boring sponges (20 species); being the coral reef framework the substrate most invaded (56%) followed by the rubbles (45%), and the living colonies (36%). The results also indicated that boring sponges are promoting the dislodgment of live colonies and large fragments from the framework. In summary, the eastern coral reefs affected by bleaching phenomena, mainly provoked by El Niño, present a high diversity and abundance of boring sponges, which are weakening the union of the colony with the reef framework and promoting their dislodgment. These phenomena will probably become even more intense and severe, as temperatures are projected to continue to rise under the scenarios for future climate change, which could place many eastern coral reefs beyond their survival threshold.
Review and reinterpretation of Rio Grande silvery minnow reproductive ecology using egg biology, life history, hydrology, and geomorphology information
Authors: Nicolas Medley Carl , Shirey Patrick D.
Published: March 2013

To inform management actions to recover the endangered Rio Grande silvery minnow (Hybognathus amarus, RGSM), we (1) calculated the terminal settling velocities of newly expelled and water‐hardened RGSM eggs for the observed range of suspended sediment concentrations and water temperatures in the Rio Grande, New Mexico, USA, and (2) reviewed RGSM reproductive ecology in the context of egg biology, the species' life history, and the historic and contemporary hydrology and geomorphology of the Rio Grande. Results show that in a naturally functioning riverine environment, the location and timing of spawning, the ontogenic stage of egg development, and habitat‐specific differences in sediment and temperature that influence egg‐settling rates interact to (1) prevent egg suffocation, (2) promote egg entrainment in clear, warm, productive floodplain habitats, and (3) limit downstream population displacement. Our research suggests that the RGSM is primarily a demersal, floodplain spawning species that evolved eggs that are secondarily buoyant in high‐sediment environments rather than a main channel, pelagic broadcast‐spawning species with an evolved long‐distance, downstream drift phase, as previously reported. The current high magnitude of egg drift is hypothesized to be an artefact of contemporary river management and channelization, leading to reduced lateral connectivity, floodplain abandonment, and habitat degradation. Conservation actions implemented to restore historic channel form and reconnect low‐velocity backwater and floodplain habitats are recommended. In the absence of a documented upstream migration of adult fish, removal of barriers to a presumed upstream movement is unlikely to provide immediate benefits to RGSM. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Organocatalytic Enantioselective Michael–Henry Acetalization of Glutaraldehyde and 3‐Aryl‐2‐nitroprop‐2‐enols: A Facile Entry to 3‐Oxabicyclo[3.3.1]nonan‐2‐ones with Four Consecutive Stereogenic Centers
Authors: Hong Bor‐Cherng , Lan Ding‐Jyun , Dange Nitin S. , Lee Gene‐Hsiang , Liao Ju‐Hsiou
Published: March 2013

A convenient method was developed for the enantioselective (>99 % ee) synthesis of 3‐oxabicyclo[3.3.1]nonan‐2‐ones containing four consecutive stereogenic centers. The method comprises a cascade organocatalytic Michael–Henry acetalization–oxidation reaction of glutaraldehyde and 3‐aryl‐2‐nitroprop‐2‐enols. The structures and absolute configurations of the products were confirmed by X‐ray analysis.
A Microfluidic Cell Size/Density Sensor by Resistive Pulse Detection
Authors: Sun Jiashu , Kang Yuejun , Boczko Erik M. , Jiang Xingyu
Published: March 2013

We developed a microfluidic resistive pulse‐based cell sensor driven by a syringe pump and a small electric field to precisely count and size yeast and E. coli, as well as measure their density. The microfluidic sensor consisted of one small sensing aperture (10 µm×8 µm cross‐section and 15 µm long) and four side channels. Two side channels were designed to apply a small voltage across the aperture, and the other two were connected to a commercial differential amplifier to detect the trans‐aperture voltage modulation caused by cells. Yeast cells were delivered to the resistive pulse sensor through the syringe pump at different flow rates. The measured yeast cell density before dilution was 3.53×108 cells/mL with the average diameter of 3.30 µm (18.83 µm3 in volume) at 1 nL/s, and 3.46×108 cells/mL with the average diameter of 3.40 µm (20.49 µm3 in volume) at 10 nL/s. The same device was used to analyze a population of E. coli, yielding the average volume of 5.36 µm3 and density of 1.79×106 cells/mL. We expect this simple and versatile resistive pulse‐based sensor would have potential to realize on‐site and on‐line cell analysis.
The Enhanced Enzymolysis Resistance of Surface‐Immobilized DNA Caused by Hybridizing with Morpholino
Authors: Cao Lei , Zhao Yun , Ji Li‐Na , Zhang Jing , Wang Kang , Xia Xing‐Hua
Published: March 2013

The anti‐enzymolysis capability of surface attached DNA, morpholino (MO) single strands, and DNA‐DNA, MO‐DNA double strands are studied using cyclic voltammetry. Results show that MO, the neutral analog of DNA, bears strong anti‐enzymolysis capability against DNase I and can protect its complementary DNA from being decomposed. Only 15 % of the DNA in the MO‐DNA double strands is decomposed within 20 min, which is much lower than that for DNA‐DNA double strands (100 % in 400 s). Fluorescence polarization measurements suggest that the steric hindrance of MO is the main cause of the improved anti‐enzymolysis ability of DNA in MO‐DNA double strands.
Suicidal ideation in family carers of people with dementia: a pilot study
Authors: O'Dwyer Siobhan T. , Moyle Wendy , Zimmer‐Gembeck Melanie , De Leo Diego
Published: March 2013

Objective

The objective of this pilot study was to gather preliminary evidence on suicidal ideation in family carers of people with dementia.

Methods

An online, cross‐sectional survey was conducted with 120 family carers, the majority of whom were located in Australia and USA. The survey included measures of suicidality, self‐efficacy, physical health, depression, hopelessness, anxiety, optimism, caregiver burden, coping strategies and social support.

Results

Twenty‐six percent of carers had contemplated suicide more than once in the previous year. Only half of these had ever told someone they might commit suicide and almost 30% said they were likely to attempt suicide in the future. Carers who had contemplated suicide had poorer mental health, lower self‐efficacy for community support service use and greater use of dysfunctional coping strategies than those who had not. In a logistic regression, only depression predicted the presence of suicidal thoughts.

Conclusions

A significant number of people might contemplate suicide while caring for a family member with dementia. Although more research is required to confirm this finding, there are clear implications for policy and clinical practice in terms of identifying and supporting carers who are already contemplating suicide. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Alfvén Mach number and IMF clock angle dependencies of sunward flow channels in the magnetosphere
Authors: Eriksson S. , Rastätter L.
Published: March 2013

Interplanetary coronal mass ejections associated with strong interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) By have been shown to enhance the neutral density in low Earth orbit. The enhancement has been linked to strong downward Poynting fluxes embedded within ionospheric channels of significant sunward ExB drift (2000–3000 m/s). Here we present MHD results describing the magnetospheric counterpart of the ionospheric flow channel that Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) encountered on 15 May 2005. It is shown that the clock angle of maximum sunward flow (θFC) depends on the IMF clock angle θFC = α * θIMF − 1.3° with α = (0.30, 0.38, 0.43, 0.45) at X = (4, 2, 0, −2) RE. This is poleward of the magnetic null point region. The flow also depends on the solar wind Alfvén Mach number Vx = Vx0 − δv * MA. The critical MA = Vx0 / δV for Vx = 0 decreases from MA = 3.42 (X = 4 RE) to MA = 2.40 (X = −2 RE). The low MA and θIMF conditions that characterized the X = 2 RE flow and resulted in strong Poynting flux occurred for 16% of all 167 h in 1998–2008 with Dst < −180 nT.
Seismic anisotropy in eastern Africa, mantle flow, and the African superplume
Authors: Bagley Brian , Nyblade Andrew A.
Published: March 2013

New estimates of seismic anisotropy from shear wave splitting measurements in eastern Africa reveal a pattern of seismic anisotropy dominated by a NE alignment of fast polarization directions with local changes around the thick Archean lithosphere of the Tanzania craton. The overall pattern is consistent with mantle flow from the African superplume but not with absolute plate motion, a plume head, or fossil anisotropy in the lithosphere. In combination with tomographic images of the African superplume, this finding suggests that plateau uplift, volcanism, and continental breakup along the Afro‐Arabian rift system is strongly influenced by flow from the lower mantle and indicates a connection between lower mantle processes and the tectonic deformation of the Earth's surface.
When will the summer Arctic be nearly sea ice free?
Authors: Overland James E. , Wang Muyin
Published: March 2013

The observed rapid loss of thick multiyear sea ice over the last 7 years and the September 2012 Arctic sea ice extent reduction of 49% relative to the 1979–2000 climatology are inconsistent with projections of a nearly sea ice‐free summer Arctic from model estimates of 2070 and beyond made just a few years ago. Three recent approaches to predictions in the scientific literature are as follows: (1) extrapolation of sea ice volume data, (2) assuming several more rapid loss events such as 2007 and 2012, and (3) climate model projections. Time horizons for a nearly sea ice‐free summer for these three approaches are roughly 2020 or earlier, 2030 ± 10 years, and 2040 or later. Loss estimates from models are based on a subset of the most rapid ensemble members. It is not possible to clearly choose one approach over another as this depends on the relative weights given to data versus models. Observations and citations support the conclusion that most global climate model results in the CMIP5 archive are too conservative in their sea ice projections. Recent data and expert opinion should be considered in addition to model results to advance the very likely timing for future sea ice loss to the first half of the 21st century, with a possibility of major loss within a decade or two.
Race/Ethnicity and Multicultural Competence Among School Counselors: Multicultural Training, Racial/Ethnic Identity, and Color‐Blind Racial Attitudes
Authors: Chao Ruth Chu‐Lien
Published: March 2013

This study tested a model that links race/ethnicity, multicultural training, racial/ethnic identity (REI), color‐blind racial attitudes (CoBRA), and multicultural counseling competence (MCC) among school counselors. The author examined whether multicultural training significantly moderated the association between race/ethnicity and MCC. School counselors’ REI was found to mediate this moderated association. A 3‐way interaction among race/ethnicity, training, and CoBRA revealed that White and racial/ethnic minority school counselors had the lowest MCC scores when they had limited training and higher CoBRA.
An Exploration of Counselors' Professional Leadership Development
Authors: Meany‐Walen Kristin K. , Carnes‐Holt Kara , Barrio Minton Casey A. , Purswell Katherine , Pronchenko‐Jain Yulia
Published: March 2013

Little is understood about the development of leaders in counseling. This mixed‐method study explored leaders’ progression through leadership endeavors. The quantitative descriptive statistics and qualitative analysis included 58 elected and appointed leaders from the American Counseling Association and Chi Sigma Iota. Data were analyzed to explore experiences that prompted individuals to assume leadership roles in professional counseling organizations. By understanding how leaders evolve, counseling programs and professional associations can foster counselors’ leadership development.
Cross‐cultural validation of the counselor burnout inventory in hong kong
Authors: Shin Hyojung , Yuen Mantak , Lee Jayoung , Lee Sang Min
Published: March 2013

This study investigated the cross‐cultural validation of the Chinese translation of the Counselor Burnout Inventory (CBI) with a sample of school counselors in Hong Kong. Specifically, this study examined the CBI's factor structure using confirmatory factor analysis and calculated the effect size, to compare burnout scores among the counselors of 4 countries (Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, and the United States). Results indicated that a 5‐factor model was the most appropriate to accommodate the data. In addition, the results showed that the levels of Hong Kong counselors’ burnout were similar to those of U.S. counselors, but differed from counselors in Japan and South Korea.
Control of Fiat (factor inhibiting ATF4‐mediated transcription) expression by Sp family transcription factors in osteoblasts
Authors: Hekmatnejad Bahareh , Gauthier Claude , St‐Arnaud René
Published: March 2013

FIAT (factor inhibiting ATF4‐mediated transcription) represses Osteocalcin gene transcription and inhibits osteoblast activity by heterodimerizing with ATF4 to prevent it from binding DNA. It thus appears important to identify and characterize the molecular mechanisms that control Fiat gene expression in osteoblasts. In silico sequence analysis identified a canonical GC‐box within a 1,400 bp region of the proximal Fiat gene promoter. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA) with MC3T3‐E1 osteoblastic cells nuclear extracts indicated that the transcription factors Sp1 and Sp3, but not Sp7/OSTERIX, bound this proximal GC‐box. Chromatin immunoprecipitation confirmed interaction of the two transcription factors with the Fiat promoter GC‐element in living osteoblasts. Transient transfection studies showed that Sp1 dose‐dependently activated the expression of a Fiat‐luciferase reporter construct while both the long or short isoforms of Sp3 dose‐dependently inhibited transcription from the Fiat reporter construct. Transfection of an Sp7/OSTERIX expression vector did not affect expression of the Fiat‐luciferase reporter. Co‐transfection of increasing amounts of the Sp3 expression vector in the context of maximal Sp1‐dependent Fiat‐luciferase activation led to dose‐dependent repression of the expression of the reporter. Using RNA knockdown, we measured a reduction in steady‐state Fiat expression when Sp1 was inhibited, and a reciprocal increase upon Sp3 knockdown. In parallel, treatment of osteoblasts with WP631, which prevents Sp1/DNA interactions, strongly inhibited the expression of Fiat and reduced the occupancy of the Fiat promoter proximal GC‐box by Sp1. Taken together, our results suggest an interplay between Sp1and Sp3 as a mechanism involved in the control of Fiat gene expression in osteoblasts. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 1863–1870, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
On‐the‐fly reconstruction of free‐energy profiles using logarithmic mean‐force dynamics
Authors: Morishita Tetsuya , Itoh Satoru G. , Okumura Hisashi , Mikami Masuhiro
Published: March 2013

Mean‐force dynamics (MFD), which is a fictitious dynamics for a set of collective variables on a potential of mean‐force, is a powerful algorithm to efficiently explore free‐energy landscapes. Recently, we have introduced logarithmic MFD (LogMFD) (Morishita et al., Phys. Rev. E 2012, 85, 066702) which overcomes difficulties encounterd in free‐energy calculations using standard approaches such as thermodynamic integration. Here, we present a guide to implementing LogMFD calculations paying attention to the practical issues in choosing the parameters in LogMFD. A primary focus is given to the effect of the parameters on the accuracy of the reconstructed free‐energy profiles. A recipe for reducing the errors due to energy dissipation is presented. We also demonstrate that multidimensional free‐energy landscapes can be reconstructed on‐the‐fly using LogMFD, which cannot be accomplished using any other free‐energy calculation techniques. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Combined activity of post‐exercise concentrations of NA and eHsp72 on human neutrophil function: Role of cAMP
Authors: Giraldo Esther , Hinchado María D. , Ortega Eduardo
Published: March 2013

Extracellular heat shock proteins of 72 kDa (eHsp72) and noradrenaline (NA) can act as “danger signals” during exercise‐induced stress by activating neutrophil function (chemotaxis, phagocytosis, and fungicidal capacity). In addition, post‐exercise concentrations of NA increase the expression and release of Hsp72 by human neutrophils, and adrenoreceptors and cAMP are involved in the stimulation of neutrophils by eHsp72. This suggests an interaction between the two molecules in the modulation of neutrophils during exercise‐induced stress. Given this context, the aim of the present investigation was to study the combined activity of post‐exercise circulating concentrations of NA and eHsp72 on the neutrophil phagocytic process, and to evaluate the role of cAMP as intracellular signal in these effects. Results showed an accumulative stimulation of chemotaxis induced by NA and eHsp72. However, while NA and eHsp72, separately, stimulate the phagocytosis and fungicidal activity of neutrophils, when they act together they do not modify these capacities of neutrophils. Similarly, post‐exercise concentrations of NA and eHsp72 separately increased the intracellular level of cAMP, but NA and eHsp72 acting together did not modify the intracellular concentration of cAMP. These results confirm that cAMP can be involved in the autocrine/paracrine physiological regulation of phagocytosis and fungicidal capacity of human neutrophils mediated by NA and eHsp72 in the context of exercise‐induced stress. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 1902–1906, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
C6orf89 encodes three distinct HDAC enhancers that function in the nucleolus, the golgi and the midbody
Authors: Lalioti Vasiliki S. , Vergarajauregui Silvia , Villasante Alfredo , Pulido Diego , Sandoval Ignacio V.
Published: March 2013

We report here that C6orf89, which encodes a protein that interacts with bombesin receptor subtype‐3 and accelerates cell cycle progression and wound repair in human bronchial epithelial cells (Liu et al., 2011, PLoS ONE 6: e23072), encodes one soluble and two type II membrane proteins that function as histone deacetylases (HDAC) enhancers. Soluble 34/64sp is selectively targeted to the nucleolus and is retained in nucleolar organiser regions (NORs) in mitotic cells. Nucleolar 34/64sp is integrated into the ribosomal gene transcription machinery, colocalises and coimmunoprecipitates with the Pol I transcription factor UBF, and undergoes a dramatic relocalisation to the nucleolus upon the arrest of rDNA transcription, protein synthesis and PI3K/mTORC2 signalling. Membrane 42/116mp localises to the Golgi and the midbody, and its controlled ectopic expression provokes the disruption of the Golgi cisternae and hinders the separation of daughter cells and the completion of mitosis. The latter effect is also produced by the microinjection of an affinity‐purified amfion antibody. The identification of C60rf89 as a gene that encodes three distinct proteins with the capacity to enhance the activity of histone deacetylases (HDACs) in the nucleolus, the Golgi and the midbody provides new information regarding the components of the acetylome and their capacity to interact with different functional groups in the cell. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 1907–1921, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Corrosion protection of Mg‐Zn‐Y‐Nd alloy by flower‐like nanostructuredTiO2film for vascular stent application
Authors: Hou Shusen , Mi Liwei , Wang Liguo , Zhu Shijie , Hu Junhua , Ding Qi , Guan Shaokang
Published: March 2013

BACKGROUND

The highin vivocorrosion rate of magnesium alloy vascular stents is a primary problem. SmoothTiO2film has excellent antithrombotic properties and could improve the corrosion resistance of magnesium alloy stents. Research into special nanostructuredTiO2film, which may provide improved biocompatibility and act as a drug carrier, has seldom been reported in vascular stent applications.

RESULTS

Flower‐like nanostructuredTiO2film was prepared on Mg‐Zn‐Y‐Nd alloy substrate by an improved solvothermal method. AqueousNH4Fsolution and hydrofluoric acid were added to ethanol solvent to adjust the hydrolysis rate of titanium butoxide, and thus theTiO2nanostructure size. This reaction system was suitable for magnesium alloy due to its non‐corrosive characteristic. Under properly chosen hydrolysis conditions, compactTiO2film consisting of continuous flower‐like nanostructures was obtained on substrate, with single sheet thickness of 50–100 nm. The charge transfer resistance of Mg‐Zn‐Y‐Nd alloy in simulated body fluids was increased about 40 times by the nanostructuredTiO2film.

CONCLUSIONS

Through a solvothermal synthesis process, nanostructuredTiO2film can be prepared on the surface of Mg‐Zn‐Y‐Nd alloy. Corrosion resistance of Mg‐Zn‐Y‐Nd alloy in simulated body fluids can be improved by protection with theTiO2film. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
A Convenient Approach to 4,7‐Dihydrotetrazolo [5,1‐c][1,2,4]triazine Synthesis
Authors: Shchegol'kov Evgeny V. , Ivanova Anna E. , Burgart Yanina V. , Saloutin Viktor I.
Published: March 2013

Azo coupling of 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds with tetrazolyl‐5‐diazonium chloride is used to develop a convenient one‐step procedure for the synthesis of 4,7‐dihydrotetrazolo[5,1‐c][1,2,4]triazines. In contrast to nonfluorinated analogs, 7‐hydroxy‐7‐polyfluoroalkyl‐4,7‐dihydrotetrazolo[5,1‐c][1,2,4]triazines undergo a ring‐chain isomerism resulting from the cleavage at the C7―N7a bond. A distinctive feature of nonfluorinated 4,7‐dihydrotetrazolo[5,1‐c][1,2,4]triazines is the possibility to dehydration, which is accompanied by an azide rearrangement due to the tetrazole ring cleavage with the formation of tetrazolo[1,5‐b][1,2,4]triazines.
Pharmacological potentials of Syzygium cumini: a review
Authors: Srivastava Shalini , Chandra Deepak
Published: March 2013

In the last few years there has been an exponential growth in the field of herbal medicine, and these drugs are gaining popularity in both developing and developed countries because of their natural origin and lesser side effects. Syzygium cumini (syn. Eugenia jambolana, Syzygium jambolana, Eugenia cumini, Syzygium jambos), commonly known as jamun in India, is an evergreen tree distributed throughout the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia and East Africa. It is mainly utilised as a fruit producer and for its timber. Medicinally, the fruit is reported to have antidiabetic, antihyperlipidaemic, antioxidant, antiulcer, hepatoprotective, antiallergic, antiarthritic, antimicrobial, anti‐inflammatory, antifertility, antipyretic, antiplaque, radioprotective, neuropsychopharmacological, nephroprotective and antidiarrhoeal activities. Among these beneficial physiological effects, the antidiabetic property of S. cumini has the most promising nutraceutical value. The health‐beneficial effects of S. cumini are mainly attributed to various phytoconstituents such as tannins, alkaloids, steroids, flavonoids, terpenoids, fatty acids, phenols, minerals, carbohydrates and vitamins present in the fruit. This review paper presents an overview of experimental evidence for the pharmacological potential of S. cumini. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Should minors be considered as potential living liver donors?
Authors: Capitaine Laura , Thys Kristof , Van Assche Kristof , Sterckx Sigrid , Pennings Guido
Published: March 2013

For many patients, living donor liver transplantation represents their only hope of receiving a lifesaving graft. In certain (albeit rare) cases, a minor will be the only suitable donor. Living liver donation by minors has been reported in several countries. In the academic literature and professional guidelines, little attention is paid to the development of an ethical framework for this practice. The focus is frequently limited to the donation of regenerative tissues and kidneys. However, liver donation differs in important respects because of the increased medical risks and the lack of substitute therapies. Therefore, in this article, we assess whether living liver donation by minors is ethically appropriate. We argue that living liver donation by minors is justifiable only if minors possess the capacity to consent to donation or if the procedure is in their best interests. Although minors may possess adult-like levels of cognitive maturity, they lack sufficient psychosocial maturity to give valid consent to donation. In addition, living liver donation is generally not in a minor's best interests. With respect to the latter, the potential psychological benefits that a minor may experience as a result of living liver donation are insufficiently empirically supported and are unlikely to outweigh the short- and long-term medical and psychological risks. Therefore, we conclude that minors should not be considered as potential living liver donors. Liver Transpl 19:649–655, 2013. © 2013 AASLD.
Ni(II)‐NTA Modified Poly(ethylene imine) Glycopolymers: Physicochemical Properties and First In Vitro Study of Polyplexes Formed with HIV‐Derived Peptides
Authors: Hauptmann Nicole , Pion Marjorie , Muñoz‐Fernández María‐Ángeles , Komber Hartmut , Werner Carsten , Voit Brigitte , Appelhans Dietmar
Published: March 2013

Alternative delivery entities are desirable in immunotherapies in which polyplexes are widely formed by electrostatic interactions to induce cellular uptake processes for bioactive molecules. In our study, biocompatible Ni(II)‐nitrilo(triacetic acid)‐modified poly(ethylene imine)‐maltose (Ni‐NTA‐DG) is realized and evaluated as complexation agent against His‐tagged peptides using fluorescence polarization and dynamic light scattering. The polyplexes are stable until a pH of 6.5–6.0, and also up to 50 mM of imidazole. A first uptake approach shows that polyplexes lead to an increase in peptide uptake in monocyte‐derived immature dendritic cells. In summary, Ni‐NTA‐DG represents a promising (delivery) platform for forthcoming in vitro applications.

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p‐Doping and Fiber Spinning of Poly(heptadiyne)s
Authors: Anderson Emily B. , Kumar P. Santosh , Schawaller Dirk , Mavila Sudheendran , Voss Michael , Freyer Anette , Knolle Wolfgang , Hermanutz Frank , Buchmeiser Michael R.
Published: March 2013

Poly(4,4‐bis[(3,5‐diethoxybenzoyloxy)methyl]‐1,6‐heptadiyne) is synthesized via cyclopolymerization using modified Grubbs‐ and Schrock‐type initiators. Doping with either I2 or NO+ BF4− yields a conductive polymer with conductivity up to 1.4 × 10−2 S cm−1. The undoped amorphous conjugated polymer is spun into monofilament and multifilament fibers by a wet‐spinning process. Fibers are collected on bobbins with a draw down ratio of 12 resulting in fiber diameters under 60 μm, characterized by scanning electron microscopy. X‐ray diffraction data confirms that the amorphous structure of the polymer is preserved; no additional orientation of the polymer chains occurs during fiber spinning.

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Hemoglobin shady grove: A novel fetal methemoglobin variant
Authors: Marks Asher , Luo Hong‐yuan , Chui David H.K. , Greenberg Jay
Published: March 2013

Recommendations by the US Department of Health and Human Services Secretary's Advisory Committee on Heritable Disorders in Newborns and Children aim to increase congenital heart disease screening by pulse oximetry in the nursery. Here, we describe a novel fetal methemoglobin variant discovered in a newborn found to have oxygen saturations significantly below normal upon pulse oximetry screening for congenital heart disease. As universal newborn screening with pulse oximetry is implemented, hereditary variant hemoglobins should be considered in the diagnostic work‐up in otherwise well newborns with low SpO2. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013;60E55‐E56. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Surface Patterning by Local Plasma Jet Sacrificial Oxidation of Silicon
Authors: Paetzelt Hendrik , Arnold Thomas , Böhm Georg , Pietag Fred , Schindler Axel
Published: March 2013

Local plasma oxidation of silicon in combination with wet chemical etching provides a method for high accuracy computer controlled surface modification and machining. In this paper we use a microwave powered atmospheric pressure Ar/He/O2 plasma jet for the local oxidation with a typical tool function width of about 1.4 mm. The relationship between oxide layer thickness and plasma jet parameters is discussed in detail regarding working distance, scan velocity, and line feed rate. Surface roughness after oxidation and after chemical removal of the oxide layer was measured using an atomic force microscope. The compositional analysis and the refractive index n of the oxide layer were measured by secondary ion mass spectroscopy (SIMS) and spectroscopic ellipsometry, respectively.

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Effects of puberty on cystic fibrosis related pulmonary exacerbations in women versus men
Authors: Sutton Shelby , Rosenbluth Daniel , Raghavan Deepa , Zheng Jie , Jain Raksha
Published: March 2013

Background

Epidemiologic data from studies of airway diseases, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cystic fibrosis indicate a gender disparity where women have worse outcomes. The explanation for this is largely unknown. We hypothesize that female sex hormones play a role in this gender disparity, predisposing women to more exacerbations and decreased lung function post‐puberty.

Objective

In Cystic Fibrosis, to determine if puberty marks a point of increasing exacerbations and decreasing lung function in women relative to men.

Methods

Using the United States Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Patient Registry, we used linear regression to compare lung function and rate of pulmonary exacerbations in men versus women before and after puberty.

Results

Of 5,137 subjects who met inclusion criteria, 2,689 were male and 2,448 were female. Average age of puberty was found to be 13.2 ± 2.2 years in men and 11.2 ± 2.0 years of age in women. Percent predicted FEV1 pre‐ and post‐puberty were no different between males versus females (P = 0.44 pre‐puberty and P = 0.16 post‐puberty). In contrast, women had a significantly higher rate of pulmonary exacerbations post‐puberty than men (1.17 ± 1.35 exacerbations per year in women versus 0.95 ± 1.27 in men; P < 0.001) despite controlling for morphometrics, co‐morbidities, and microbiologic variables.

Conclusion

After puberty, the rate of pulmonary exacerbations increased in adolescent women relative to men with cystic fibrosis, supporting a role for sex hormones in the disease process. Further understanding of the mechanisms that modulate sex hormone receptors in airway disease may serve as future targets for therapy. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2014; 49:28–35. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Recurrence of CCHS associated PHOX2B poly‐alanine expansion mutation due to maternal mosaicism
Authors: Bachetti Tiziana , Di Duca Marco , Monica Matteo Della , Grappone Lidia , Scarano Gioacchino , Ceccherini Isabella
Published: March 2013

Heterozygous in frame trinucleotide duplications within the PHOX2B gene, leading to poly‐alanine expansions, cause Congenital Central Hypoventilation Syndrome. Here we report about a CCHS patient, carrying a +13Ala PHOX2B expansion, whose asymptomatic mother resulted with a low level of mosaicism for the same mutation in peripheral blood cells. Her second pregnancy ended with the spontaneous miscarriage of a fetus who had inherited the PHOX2B mutation, thus confirming germline mosaicism in the mother and the need of proper genetic counseling to CCHS families. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2014; 49:E45–E47. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Phase diagram of the itinerant‐electron ferromagnet ZrZn2
Authors: Kabeya N. , Maekawa H. , Deguchi K. , Kimura N. , Aoki H. , Sato N. K.
Published: March 2013

The weak itinerant‐electron ferromagnet ZrZn2 exhibits intriguing high‐pressure properties, such as non‐Fermi‐liquid behavior and the electronic topological transition (the Lifshitz transition). We report the detailed magnetic properties at high pressures and propose a novel phase diagram containing a crossover temperature that emerges from a metamagnetic critical point.
Chunggan Extract (CGX), A Traditional Korean Herbal Medicine, Exerts Hepatoprotective Effects in a Rat Model of Chronic Alcohol Consumption
Authors: Kim Hyeong Geug , Wang Jing Hua , Han Jong Min , Hwang Seok Yeon , Lee Dong Soo , Son Chang Gue
Published: March 2013

Chunggan extract, CGX, is a modification of a traditional herbal medicine that has been used for patients suffering from various liver disorders since 2001. Here, we investigated the hepatoprotective effects of CGX and its underlying mechanisms in a rat model of chronic alcohol consumption. Rats were orally administered 30% ethanol solution for 4 weeks with or without CGX (50, 100, 200 mg/kg). The histopathology, biochemistry, oxidative stress/antioxidant biomarkers, hepatofibrogenic cytokines, and serum endotoxin level were analyzed. Alcohol treatment markedly elevated the serum levels of aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, and total reactive oxygen species, and tissue levels of hydroxyproline and malondialdehyde (MDA), while reducing the total glutathione (GSH) contents and the activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase. These alterations were significantly attenuated by CGX treatment (mainly 100 and 200 mg/kg). CGX treatment normalized the elevation of fibrogenic cytokines, including transforming growth factor‐β, platelet derived growth factor‐β, and connective tissue growth factor in hepatic tissues and ameliorated the increase in serum endotoxin concentration. These results suggest that CGX protects liver tissue from alcohol injury through antioxidant actions and prevention of endotoxin reflux. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Structural and charge‐transfer properties of indolylfulgides
Authors: Tsinberg Michael B. , Chindam Rohith , Gough Jonathan D.
Published: March 2013

The structural and electronic properties of a photochromic molecule dictate their potential photochemical activity. To gain insight into these influences, the ground‐state structure and excited state properties of six indolylgulgides were calculated using several time dependent‐density functional theory (DFT) (TD‐DFT)//DFT methods, second‐order M⊘ller–Plesset (MP2), and CIS(D). These methods simulated the charge‐transfer properties and the conformation of the ground‐state structure for each molecule. Generally, TD‐DFT accurately simulated the expected charge‐transfer state. The degree of spatial overlap of the occupied and virtual molecular orbitals involved in the S1 transition of indolylfulgides quantitatively assessed their charge‐transfer character and was qualitatively useful in assessing their photochromic activity. The M06, M06‐2X, and M11 structures were quite similar to those calculated by MP2. Structural differences, similarities, and functional trends are compared and discussed. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An upper bound on the number of Steiner triple systems
Authors: Linial Nathan , Luria Zur
Published: March 2013

Richard Wilson conjectured in 1974 the following asymptotic formula for the number of n ‐vertex Steiner triple systems:

\documentclass{article}\usepackage{mathrsfs, amsmath, amssymb}\pagestyle{empty}\begin{document}\begin{align*} STS(n) = \left( (1+o(1))\frac{n}{e^2} \right)^{\frac{n^2}{6}}\end{align*}\end{document}. Our main result is that

The proof is based on the entropy method.

As a prelude to this proof we consider the number F(n) of 1 ‐factorizations of the complete graph on n vertices. Using the Kahn‐Lovász theorem it can be shown that

We show how to derive this bound using the entropy method. Both bounds are conjectured to be sharp. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 43, 399–406, 2013
Roughness parameter selection for novel manufacturing processes
Authors: Ham M. , Powers B. M.
Published: March 2013

This work proposes a method of roughness parameter (RP) selection for novel manufacturing processes or processes where little knowledge exists about which RPs are important. The method selects a single parameter to represent a group of highly correlated parameters. Single point incremental forming (SPIF) is used as the case study for the manufacturing process. This methodology was successful in reducing the number of RPs investigated from 18 to 8 in the case study. SCANNING 36:21–29, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Capabilities and Strategic Entrepreneurship in Public Organizations
Authors: Klein Peter G. , Mahoney Joseph T. , McGahan Anita M. , Pitelis Christos N.
Published: March 2013

Public organizations are relatively understudied in the strategic entrepreneurship literature. In this article, we submit that public organizations are usefully analyzed as entities that create and capture value in both the private and public sectors and that a capabilities lens sheds important new insights on their behavior. As they try to create and capture value, public organizations can act entrepreneurially by creating or leveraging bundles of capabilities, which may then shape subsequent entrepreneurial action. Such processes can involve complex interactions among public and private actors. For example, public organizations often partner with private firms to produce existing products, create new products, and establish new markets which, in turn, generate new capabilities for both public and private actors. Yet such coevolutionary processes are not guaranteed to create value, and capabilities acquired in the pursuit of public interests may, over time, enable activities that damage those same interests. We show how a capabilities approach helps explain the nature and evolution of public organizations and we apply this approach to a series of cases on the growth and diversification of public organizations, the private provision of public goods, and related issues. Copyright © 2013 Strategic Management Society.
Private Entrepreneurs in Public Services: A Longitudinal Examination of Outsourcing and Statization of Prisons
Authors: Cabral Sandro , Lazzarini Sergio G. , de Azevedo Paulo Furquim
Published: March 2013

Some fear that the profit‐maximizing orientation of private entrepreneurs conflicts with societal goals expected in the provision of complex public services. Received contractual theories advocate that private involvement in public services will result in cost reductions at the expense of quality. Using prisons as our empirical context, we benefit from an event involving the outsourcing and subsequent statization of correctional facilities in Brazil. Triangulating between quantitative and qualitative information, we do not find evidence of quality deterioration in outsourced prisons and suggest that a key mechanism driving this result is the presence of public supervisors closely working on‐site with private entrepreneurs in a hybrid governance fashion. We then deliver a set of new propositions that move beyond hazard considerations to examine how the combination of heterogeneous public and private capabilities might yield learning and spillover effects unattainable through pure government management or full‐fledged privatization. Copyright © 2013 Strategic Management Society.
Ersatzneubau für die Schnettkerbrücke in Dortmund: Bauausführung (Teil 2)
Authors: Schmidt Andreas , Weißbrich Markus , Hagemann Axel , Hamme Markus
Published: March 2013

Die Bauausführung für den Ersatzneubau der Schnettkerbrücke begann mit der Zuschlagserteilung an das Unternehmen Schachtbau Nordhausen GmbH im September 2005. Schnell zeigte sich, dass die Realisierung des Bauwerksentwurfs für die technisch und optisch anspruchsvolle Brücke in dieser exponierten Lage für alle Beteiligten eine große Herausforderung war.

Die Herstellung erfolgte unter schwierigen Randbedingungen. So musste der Bauablauf unter weitestgehender Aufrechterhaltung des Straßen‐ und Bahnverkehrs erfolgen. Die Gründungssituation erwies sich als außerordentlich schwierig. Neben dem Neubau musste auch noch die alte Brücke mit einem aufwendigen Verfahren abgebrochen werden. Zusätzlich waren die Interessen der Bewohner des Stadtteils Schönau zu berücksichtigen, da sie während der Bauzeit vom Baustellenverkehr besonders betroffen waren.

Der folgende Aufsatz beschreibt die technischen Lösungen zur Umsetzung der komplexen Bauaufgabe. Eine generelle Bauwerksbeschreibung erfolgte bereits einem ersten Teil über den Ersatzneubau der Schnettkerbrücke [1].

Replacement of the Bridge Schnettkerbrücke in Dortmund: Building of the bridge (part 2). The replacement of the Bridge Schnettkerbrücke started with the assignment of the construction company Schachtbau Nordhausen GmbH in September 2005. It was quickly to realize, that the building of this technical and optical ambitious bridge was a great challenge for all participants.

The erection had to take place under difficult conditions. The disturbance of road and railroad traffic must be reduced to a minimum. The building of the foundations was very difficult. Besides of the building of the new bridge the old bridge must be deconstructed. The interests of the inhabitants of the urban district Schönau had to be respected, because they were disturbed by the site traffic during the whole construction period.

The following paper describes the technical solutions to execute the complex construction process. For a general description of the bridge see [1].
Silver Salt and Derivatives of 5‐Azido‐1H‐1, 2, 4‐triazole‐3‐­carbonitrile
Authors: Izsák Dániel , Klapötke Thomas M. , Reuter Stephan , Rösener Thomas
Published: March 2013

This study features the preparation of three new energetic C‐azido‐1, 2, 4‐triazoles, with the anion of one being a new binary C–N compound. 5‐Azido‐1H‐1, 2, 4‐triazole‐3‐carbonitrile (1) was prepared from 5‐amino‐1H‐1, 2, 4‐triazole‐3‐carbonitrile and further derivatized to 5‐azido‐1H‐1, 2, 4‐triazole‐3‐carbohydroximoyl chloride (5) with 3‐azido‐1H‐1, 2, 4‐triazole‐5‐carboxamidoxime (3) as an intermediate. The ability of 1 and 3 for salt formation was shown with the respective silver salts 2 and 4. All compounds were well characterized by various means, including IR and multinuclear NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and DSC. The molecular structures of 1, 3, and 5 in the solid state were determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The sensitivities towards various outer stimuli (impact, friction, electrostatic discharge) were determined according to BAM standards. The silver salts were additionally tested for their potential as primary explosives.
Obstacles to Surgical Services in a Rural Cameroonian District Hospital
Authors: Ilbawi André M. , Einterz Ellen M. , Nkusu Daniel
Published: March 2013

Background

There are significant obstacles to the delivery of surgical care in low income countries. Few studies have defined or characterized these constraints. The present study aimed to identify financial and demographic factors limiting the utilization of surgical services in rural Cameroon.

Methods

A review was performed of all surgical records for patients presenting for surgery at the District Hospital of Kolofata in rural Cameroon over the 3‐year study period (2004–2007). Disability‐adjusted life years (DALYs) were calculated using disease‐ and patient‐specific outcomes while accounting for postoperative morbidity. Univariate and multivariate analysis identified factors associated with failure to return for care.

Results

During the study period, 1,213 patients presented for preoperative evaluation, were informed of the cost to be paid preoperatively, and had surgery scheduled. Of these, 544 patients did not return for treatment, representing 2,163 DALYs potentially lost. Multivariate analysis revealed significant factors associated with increased likelihood of not returning for care as required preoperative payment >$US 310 (OR 0.44–0.86) and a recommended procedure for cancer (OR 0.47–0.86) or cutaneous disease (OR 0.28–0.95). Factors associated with increased odds of returning were male gender (OR 1.03–1.98), preoperative payment <$US 50 (OR 2.86–16.2), and a procedure with low DALYs (OR 1.71–9.89). The average cost per DALY for all operations performed was $US 27.13.

Conclusions

Although surgery addresses a significant disease burden and is reported to be a cost‐effective public health intervention, utilization is limited by high costs, demographic factors, and patient perceptions of surgical diseases.
Resident Selection of Hand Surgery Fellowships: A Survey of the 2011, 2012, and 2013 Hand Fellowship Graduates
Authors: Brunworth Louis S. , Chintalapani Shravan R. , Gray Robert R. , Cardoso Roy , Owens Patrick W.
Published: March 2013

Background

We desired information from the recent, current, and future matched hand surgery fellows regarding their residency training, number of interviews, position matched, cost of interviewing, influences, opinions on future hand training models, and post-fellowship job information.

Method

Institutional review board approval was obtained from our institution to submit an online survey. An email was sent to the coordinators of all US Hand Fellowships to be forwarded to their fellows with graduation years 2011, 2012, and 2013, as well as directly to the fellows if their email addresses were provided. Data on the application process, relative importance of program attributes, and opinions regarding optimal training of a hand surgeon were collected. Statistical analysis was performed with respect to the training background and graduation year of the respondent.

Results

The survey was completed by 137 hand surgery fellows. Seventy-one percent of the survey responders were from an orthopedic residency background, 20 % from plastic, and 7 % from general surgery. Forty-four percent of all of the respondents matched into their first choice. The type of operative cases performed by the current fellows was most often selected as very important when making their rank list. Seventy-seven percent of the respondents reflected their personal preference in fellowship model to be a 1-year fellowship program.

Conclusions

The field of hand surgery is unique in that it has residents from multiple training backgrounds who all apply to one fellowship. The current fellowship model allows for diversity of training and the possibility of obtaining a second fellowship if desired.