bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chromosome 19 rearrangements in ovarian carcinomas: Zinc finger genes are particularly targeted
Authors: Smebye Marianne L. , Sveen Anita , Haugom Lisbeth , Davidson Ben , Tropé Claes G. , Lothe Ragnhild A. , Heim Sverre , Skotheim Rolf I. , Micci Francesca
Published: March 2014

Chromosome 19 is frequently rearranged in ovarian carcinomas, but the pathogenetic consequences of this are not clearly understood. We performed microarray gene expression analysis on 12 ovarian carcinomas that carry a rearranged chromosome 19 in their karyotype. These aberrant chromosomes have previously been microdissected and analyzed by array‐based CGH. In the current study, we wanted to explore whether the genomic alterations thus detected correlated with changes in gene expression. The microarray gene expression analysis gave information on 407 genes mapping in gained genomic regions on chromosome 19, of which 92 showed association between DNA gain and upregulated expression. Of the genes showing this association, 39 (42%) showed gain in at least two samples. The majority of these 39 genes of interest (n = 24, 62%) encode zinc finger proteins, which otherwise make up only 15% of the approximately 1,400 genes on chromosome 19. The strongest association was found for ZNF223 which was upregulated in samples with genomic gain compared with samples without gain. We suggest that DNA copy number changes brought about by rearrangements of chromosome 19 contribute to ovarian carcinogenesis by leading to upregulation of ZNF223 and other zinc finger genes. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
MicroRNA‐27b Targets Gremlin 1 to Modulate Fibrotic Responses in Pulmonary Cells
Authors: Graham Julie R. , Williams Cara M. M. , Yang Zhiyong
Published: March 2014

Fibrosis is a chronic disease characterized by an excessive deposition of scar tissue in the affected organs. A central mediator of this process is transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β), which stimulates the production of extracellular matrix proteins such as collagens. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been implicated in both fibrosis as well as in TGF‐β signaling, but the extent of their regulation has not been fully defined. A functional screen was conducted using a library of miRNA inhibitors to identify miRNAs that affect TGF‐β‐induced type I collagen expression, a key event in the development of fibrosis. The inhibition of one miRNA in particular, miR‐27b, caused a significant increase in type I collagen expression. We found that miR‐27b directly targets Gremlin 1 by binding to its 3′‐UTR, reducing its mRNA levels. TGF‐β signaling decreased miR‐27b expression and caused a corresponding increase in Gremlin 1 levels, suggesting that TGF‐β regulates Gremlin 1 expression in part by modulating miR‐27b expression. Reducing Gremlin 1 levels by either siRNA‐mediated gene silencing or by using the miR‐27b mimic inhibited the expression of several genes known to be involved in fibrosis, while increasing Gremlin 1 levels by the addition of either recombinant protein or the miR‐27b inhibitor enhanced the expression of these genes. In summary, we have demonstrated that miR‐27b targets Gremlin 1, and that this regulation likely represents an important control point in fibrotic pathways. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 1539–1548, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Detection of genetic variations in Orf virus isolates epidemic in Xinjiang China
Authors: Yang Haibo , Meng Qingling , Qiao Jun , Peng Yelong , Xie Kun , Liu Yucheng , Zhao Hailong , Cai Xuepeng , Chen Chuangfu
Published: March 2014

Orf is an exanthemous viral disease seriously threatening the goat and sheep industry and widely epidemic in the goat and sheep populations in Xinjiang, China. In order to investigate the genetic variability of the orf virus (ORFV), three virus isolates (SHZ1, SHZ2, and SHZ3) were isolated by PCR and Vero cell culture using the clinical samples from the lips of the lambs suspected of ORFV infection. The isolates were further verified by electron microscopy and animal infection experiments. The protective antigen genes B2L, F1L, and virulence genes VIR, GIF, and VEGF in the isolates were cloned, sequenced and analyzed for genetic evolution. The results showed that B2L and F1L were relatively conservative with homology 86.7–97.9%, while VIR, GIF, particularly VEGF were considerably variable with homology 71.5–97.9% at amino acid sequence level, respectively. Phylogenetic tree analysis based on B2L and VIR showed that the isolates SHZ1 and SHZ2 were closely related with the Taiwan isolates. This is the first report to confirm that there have been genetic variations in the Xinjiang ORFV isolates. The findings provide molecular evidence about the genetic variability of the major antigenic and virulence genes in the virus isolates epidemic in Xinjiang.
Climate change impacts on snowmelt runoff for mountainous transboundary basins in eastern Turkey
Authors: Yucel Ismail , Güventürk Abdülkadir , Sen Omer Lutfi
Published: March 2014

This study investigates whether snowmelt runoff for the selected 15 streamflow stations located in the Euphrates, Tigris, Aras, and Çoruh basins in eastern Anatolia, Turkey, has shown a consistent hydrologic response to global climatic changes over the past several decades. It also investigates the future runoff changes in these basins. The analysis utilizes streamflow and meteorological data from 1970 to 2010 available within the study area to identify spatial and temporal patterns of trends in the seasonality of streamflow, temperature, and precipitation. Results indicate significant temperature increases (average 1.3 °C across the stations) over the time period. They also indicate increases in annual precipitation (average 7.5% across the stations) but the increases are not significant, in general. The streamflow timings in the mountainous basins are found to have already shifted to earlier days in the year (9 days on average), and this is a clear indication of earlier spring melting of snowpack due to increasing temperatures in recent years. Eight among fifteen stream gauging stations in the basins show significant time shifts in snowmelt runoff according to statistical trend tests (based on 90% confidence level). A regional climate change simulation based on a high emissions scenario suggests 10–30% declines in the annual surface runoffs of Aras, Euphrates, and Tigris basins and a slight increase (about 4%) in the annual surface runoff of Coruh basin by the end of the present century. It further indicates that the timing of the peak flows will continue to shift earlier (by about 4 weeks over the century) in response to further warming, increasing the fraction of winter runoff while decreasing the fraction of spring runoff in the year in all these basins.
Hydrogen‐Bonding Based Reversible Polymer Networks Based on Kraft Lignin and Poly(2‐(Dimethylamino)Ethyl Methacrylate) Series Polymers
Authors: Gao Guangzheng , Karaaslan Muzaffer A. , Kadla John F.
Published: March 2014

Hydrogen‐bonding‐based reversible polymer networks are prepared from poly(2‐(dimethylamino ethyl)methacrylate)‐block‐poly(ethylene oxide)‐block‐poly(2‐(dimethylamino ethyl)methacrylate) (PDMAEMA‐co‐PEO‐co‐PDMAEMA) triblock copolymer blends with lignin. FTIR and DSC analyses reveal miscible blends. Fitting of the Tg/composition data using the Kwei equation produces significantly large positive q‐values: +275 for PDMAEMA and +413 PDMAEMA‐co‐PEO‐co‐PDMAEMA. In solution the blends self‐assemble into a hydrogen‐bonded polymer network with a strong dependence on blend composition and solution pH. 1H NMR spectra show that there is a clear core/corona transformation by adjust the solution pH.
Doppler sonography for the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome: A critical review
Authors: Vanderschueren Geraldine A.K.B. , Meys Vera E.W.H. , Beekman Roy
Published: March 2014

Introduction: Doppler sonography may detect increased intraneural blood flow of the median nerve in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). The purpose of this review is to critically evaluate the literature about the diagnostic value of increased intraneural flow detected by sonography in CTS Methods: Systematic review of studies published between 1985 and 2013. Results: The 7 studies we found had considerable differences in study design and had methodological shortcomings. Doppler sonography had a median sensitivity of 72% (range, 41–95%) and a median specificity of 88% (range, 71–100%). Most studies could not compare the diagnostic value of sonography to that of electrophysiological studies, because the latter were often used as a reference test. Conclusions: Increased intraneural flow detected by Doppler sonography may be a promising diagnostic test for CTS, but further studies are needed before it can be implemented in clinical practice. Muscle Nerve 50:159–163, 2014
Sexual dimorphism in clinical neurology—predictors of successful lumbar puncture in an “expanding” population
Authors: Power Stephen P. , Costello Daniel J. , Tobin W. Oliver
Published: March 2014

Objective

To determine the proportion of patients who would have an unsuccessful lumbar puncture (LP) due to commonly used LP needles being too short.

Methods

Three hundred consecutive adults (age 16–99, mean age 56) who underwent abdominal CT over a 6‐month period were identified. The distance from the skin to the midpoint of the spinal canal was measured in the axial plane, at the level of the iliac crest. This was compared to the length of commonly used spinal needles (88 mm) to assess the number of patients who would have an unsuccessful LP due to this distance being greater than 88 mm from the skin.

Results

In 72/300 (24%) patients, the midpoint of the spinal canal was greater than 88 mm from the skin. A total of 54/72 (75%) of those patients were female. Of the female participants, 54/159 (34%) had the midpoint of their spinal canal at a distance of greater than 88 mm from the skin. In the male patients, only 18/141 (13%) had a similar finding.

Conclusion

This is the first high‐quality study to demonstrate that 24% of the population will have an unsuccessful LP procedure if commonly available spinal needles. We demonstrated that 34% of female patients would have an unsuccessful procedure while, in contrast, a successful LP should be possible in 87% of male patients.
Measuring Physical Activity in Young People with Cerebral Palsy: Validity and Reliability of the ActivPAL™ Monitor
Authors: Bania Theofani
Published: March 2014

Background and purpose

We determined the criterion validity and the retest reliability of the ΑctivPAL™ monitor in young people with diplegic cerebral palsy (CP).

Methods

Activity monitor data were compared with the criterion of video recording for 10 participants. For the retest reliability, activity monitor data were collected from 24 participants on two occasions. Participants had to have diplegic CP and be between 14 and 22 years of age. They also had to be of Gross Motor Function Classification System level II or III. Outcomes were time spent in standing, number of steps (physical activity) and time spent in sitting (sedentary behaviour).

Results

For criterion validity, coefficients of determination were all high (r2 ≥ 0.96), and limits of group agreement were relatively narrow, but limits of agreement for individuals were narrow only for number of steps (≥5.5%). Relative reliability was high for number of steps (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.87) and moderate for time spent in sitting and lying, and time spent in standing (intraclass correlation coefficients = 0.60–0.66). For groups, changes of up to 7% could be due to measurement error with 95% confidence, but for individuals, changes as high as 68% could be due to measurement error.

Discussion

The results support the criterion validity and the retest reliability of the ActivPAL™ to measure physical activity and sedentary behaviour in groups of young people with diplegic CP but not in individuals. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of repeated dosing with mechanistically distinct antinociceptive ligands in a rat model of neuropathic spinal cord injury pain
Authors: Hama Aldric T. , Pearson James P. , Sagen Jacqueline
Published: March 2014

A lack of efficacy of some analgesic drugs has been previously described in rats with neuropathic spinal cord injury (SCI) pain. It has been suggested that repeated dosing in these animals over time may eventually lead to efficacy. However, it is also possible that efficacy may diminish over time with repeated dosing. This study evaluated the efficacy of various drugs upon repeated dosing over time in a rat model of SCI pain. Four weeks following an acute spinal cord compression at the mid‐thoracic level, rats developed decreased hind paw withdrawal threshold, suggestive of below level neuropathic hypersensitivity. Either cannabinoid (CB) receptor agonist CP 55,940, the anticonvulsant carbamazepine or gabapentin, the antidepressant amitriptyline or vehicle was administered over a period of 7 days. Neither carbamazepine nor amitriptyline demonstrated efficacy either after a single or repeated dosing. Beginning with a 50% efficacious dose of gabapentin, the effect of gabapentin in SCI rats neither increased nor decreased over the treatment period. The antinociceptive effect of CP 55,940 was maintained for the entire treatment period, which was mediated by CB1 but not CB2 receptors. The current data suggest that sustained antinociception can be obtained with some drugs in rats with neuropathic SCI pain. Furthermore, the current data do not substantiate the notion that repeated treatment with initially ineffective drugs will eventually lead to efficacy; treatments that are not acutely effective are unlikely to demonstrate clinical efficacy.
In vitro Antitumoral Activity of Compounds Isolated from Artemisia gorgonum Webb
Authors: Martins Alice , Mignon Rukmini , Bastos Marina , Batista Daniela , Neng Nuno R. , Nogueira José M. F. , Vizetto‐Duarte Catarina , Custódio Luísa , Varela João , Rauter Amélia P.
Published: March 2014

Artemisia gorgonum (Asteraceae) is an endemic plant to the Cape Verde islands and plays an important role in traditional medicine. The chloroform extract of the plant aerial parts afforded six sesquiterpene lactones, two methoxylated flavonoids, two lignans, and one tetracyclic triterpene, which were isolated by chromatographic methods and their structure established by physical and spectroscopic techniques. The cytotoxic activity of the three major constituents, namely, arborescin, artemetin, and sesamin, was evaluated on neuroblastoma (SH‐SY5Y), hepatocarcinoma (HepG2), and nontumoral bone marrow stromal (S17) cell lines. The application of different concentrations of the compounds significantly decreased tumor cells viability at different extents, especially at the highest concentrations tested. Arborescin is the most promising compound as it was able to reduce tumoral cell viability with an IC50 significantly lower (229–233 μM; p < 0.01) than that of S17 cells (445 μM). Arborescin and artemetin were less toxic to nontumoral cells than the antitumoral drug tested, etoposide. Our results indicate that arborescin has a significant cytotoxic activity in vitro, more pronounced on the cancer cell lines, confirming A. gorgonum as a source of potential antitumoral molecules. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dynamical properties of S(3P) + HD reaction on 13A″state and their quantum wavepacket calculation
Authors: Gao Shoubao , Wei Wei , Zheng Bin , Song Yuzhi , Meng Qingtian
Published: March 2014

The time‐dependent wavepacket method is used to study the reaction dynamics of S(3P) + HD (v = 0, 1, 2) on the adiabatic 13A″ potential energy surface constructed by Han and coworkers [J. Chem. Phys. 2012, 136, 094308]. The reaction probabilities and integral cross sections as a function of collision energy are obtained and discussed. The results calculated by using the CC and the CS approximation have been compared, which suggests that for this direct abstraction reaction, the cheaper CS approximation calculation is valid enough in the quantum calculation. The investigation also shows that the reaction probabilities and integral cross sections tend to increase with collision energy. By analyzing the v‐dependent behavior of the integral cross sections, the significant effect of the vibrational excitation of HD is found. Also found in the calculation is a significant resonance feature in the reaction probabilities versus collision energy. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Herman–Avila–Bochi formula for higher-dimensional pseudo-unitary and Hermitian-symplectic cocycles
Authors: SADEL CHRISTIAN
Published: March 2014

A Herman–Avila–Bochi type formula is obtained for the average sum of the top$d$Lyapunov exponents over a one-parameter family of$\mathbb{G}$-cocycles, where$\mathbb{G}$is the group that leaves a certain, non-degenerate Hermitian form of signature$(c,d)$invariant. The generic example of such a group is the pseudo-unitary group$\text{U}(c,d)$or, in the case$c=d$, the Hermitian-symplectic group$\text{HSp}(2d)$which naturally appears for cocycles related to Schrödinger operators. In the case$d=1$, the formula for$\text{HSp}(2d)$cocycles reduces to the Herman–Avila–Bochi formula for$\text{SL}(2,\mathbb{R})$cocycles.
Jerusalems Above and Below: A Critique of J. L. Martyn's Interpretation of the Hagar–Sarah Allegory in Gal 4.21–5.1.
Authors: Byrne Brendan
Published: March 2014

In several studies of Galatians, J. Louis Martyn has argued that in the allegory of Hagar and Sarah (4.1–5.1), the ‘two covenants’ of 4.24b, traditionally identified with Judaism and Christianity respectively, refer, on the one hand, to a Christian Jewish Law-observant Gentile mission, Teachers from whom are disturbing Paul's Galatian converts, and to the Law-free Gentile mission promulgated by Paul, on the other. In the light, particularly, of Paul's overall usage of ‘covenant’, Martyn's interpretation is not sustainable – though this need not imply a return to an anti-Jewish interpretation of the text.
Long-term efficacy of Internet-based cognitive behavior therapy for obsessive–compulsive disorder with or without booster: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Andersson E. , Steneby S. , Karlsson K. , Ljótsson B. , Hedman E. , Enander J. , Kaldo V. , Andersson G. , Lindefors N. , Rück C.
Published: March 2014

Background

As relapse after completed cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) for obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) is common, many treatment protocols include booster programs to improve the long-term effects. However, the effects of booster programs are not well studied. In this study, we investigated the long-term efficacy of Internet-based CBT (ICBT) with therapist support for OCD with or without an Internet-based booster program.

Method

A total of 101 participants were included in the long-term follow-up analysis of ICBT. Of these, 93 were randomized to a booster program or no booster program. Outcome assessments were collected at 4, 7, 12 and 24 months after receiving ICBT.

Results

The entire sample had sustained long-term effects from pre-treatment to all follow-up assessments, with large within-group effect sizes (Cohen's d = 1.58–2.09). The booster group had a significant mean reduction in OCD symptoms compared to the control condition from booster baseline (4 months) to 7 months, but not at 12 or 24 months. Participants in the booster group improved significantly in terms of general functioning at 7, 12 and 24 months, and had fewer relapses. Kaplan–Meier analysis also indicated a significantly slower relapse rate in the booster group.

Conclusions

The results suggest that ICBT has sustained long-term effects and that adding an Internet-based booster program can further improve long-term outcome and prevent relapse for some OCD patients.
A human measure: structure, meaning and operation of the ‘Lu Ban’ foot-rule (鲁班尺) of the Dong carpenters
Authors: Smith Kendra Schank , Smith Albert C. , Li Xuemei
Published: March 2014

The Dong carpentry rule is reflective of the Dong's culture, traditions and construction methods related to human measurement. It is dimensioned by a comparable set of lucky and unlucky units instead of abstract geometries, indicating the favorable and unfavorable units that can be applied in construction. As a measurement system derived from the human body, the units celebrate more critical sections such as the head, feet or joints, relating to the proportions of the ‘master craftsman's body. Thus, on a construction site, the representation of the human body acts to convey scale and measurement, and particularly, this ruler holds the human proportion for sacred and public buildings, specifically Drum Towers and ‘Wind and Rain’ bridges. In this paper, the measuring system will be explored to show how it is made and assists the carpenters in dimensioning their buildings. This measurement system establishes a relationship between the construction and their beliefs.
Trends in stunting and overweight in Peruvian pre-schoolers from 1991 to 2011: findings from the Demographic and Health Surveys
Authors: Urke Helga Bjørnøy , Mittelmark Maurice B , Valdivia Martín
Published: March 2014

Objective

To examine trends in stunting and overweight in Peruvian children, using 2006 WHO Multicentre Growth Reference Study criteria.

Design

Trend analyses using nationally representative cross-sectional surveys from Demographic and Health Surveys (1991–2011). We performed logistic regression analyses of stunting and overweight trends in sociodemographic groups (sex, age, urban–rural residence, region, maternal education and household wealth), adjusted for sampling design effects (strata, clusters and sampling weights).

Setting

Peru.

Subjects

Children aged 0–59 months surveyed in 1991–92 (n 7999), 1996 (n 14 877), 2000 (n 11 754), 2007–08 (n 8232) and 2011 (n 8186).

Results

Child stunting declined (F(1, 5149) = 174·8, P ≤ 0·00) and child overweight was stable in the period 1991–2011 (F(1, 5147) = 0·4, P ≤ 0·54). Over the study period, levels of stunting were highest in rural compared with urban areas, the Andean and Amazon regions compared with the Coast, among children of low-educated mothers and among children living in households in the poorest wealth quintile. The trend in overweight rose among males in coastal areas (F(1, 2250) = 4·779, P ≤ 0·029) and among males in the richest wealth quintile (F(1, 1730) = 5·458, P ≤ 0·020).

Conclusions

The 2011 levels of stunting and overweight were eight times and three and a half times higher, respectively, than the expected levels from the 2006 WHO growth standards. The trend over the study period in stunting declined in most sociodemographic subgroups. The trend in overweight was stable in most sociodemographic subgroups.
Pseudospectra of semiclassical boundary value problems
Authors: Galkowski Jeffrey
Published: March 2014

We consider operators$ - \Delta + X $, where$ X $is a constant vector field, in a bounded domain, and show spectral instability when the domain is expanded by scaling. More generally, we consider semiclassical elliptic boundary value problems which exhibit spectral instability for small values of the semiclassical parameter$h$, which should be thought of as the reciprocal of the Péclet constant. This instability is due to the presence of the boundary: just as in the case of$ - \Delta + X $, some of our operators are normal when considered on$\mathbb{R}^d$. We characterize the semiclassical pseudospectrum of such problems as well as the areas of concentration of quasimodes. As an application, we prove a result about exit times for diffusion processes in bounded domains. We also demonstrate instability for a class of spectrally stable nonlinear evolution problems that are associated with these elliptic operators.
Technique and clinical evidence of neuroprotection in carotid artery stenting
Authors: Knur Rainer
Published: March 2014

Carotid artery stenting has been advocated as an effective alternative to carotid endarterectomy. Periprocedural embolization of debris during endovascular treatment of carotid artery disease may result in neurological deficit. Different strategies are being developed and evaluated for their ability to minimize the clinical embolic risk. Distal filter devices, proximal and distal balloon occlusion systems are increasingly used in carotid artery stenting, because they seem to be safe and effective in preventing distal embolization, according to several uncontrolled studies. However the use of embolic protection devices is a subject of controversy and no data on their benefit are available from randomized controlled multi-center trials. The technique and clinical evidence of cerebral protection systems during carotid angioplasty and stenting for stroke prevention are reviewed.
Hydrophobic hydration of poly-N-isopropyl acrylamide: a matter of the mean energetic state of water
Authors: Bischofberger I. , Calzolari D. C. E. , De Los Rios P. , Jelezarov I. , Trappe V.
Published: March 2014

The enthalpically favoured hydration of hydrophobic entities, termed hydrophobic hydration, impacts the phase behaviour of numerous amphiphiles in water. Here, we show experimental evidence that hydrophobic hydration is strongly determined by the mean energetics of the aqueous medium. We investigate the aggregation and collapse of an amphiphilic polymer, poly-N-isopropyl acrylamide (PNiPAM), in aqueous solutions containing small amounts of alcohol and find that the thermodynamic characteristics defining the phase transitions of PNiPAM evolve relative to the solvent composition at which the excess mixing enthalpy of the water/alcohol mixtures becomes minimal. Such correlation between solvent energetics and solution thermodynamics extends to other mixtures containing neutral organic solutes that are considered as kosmotropes to induce a strengthening of the hydrogen bonded water network. This denotes the energetics of water as a key parameter controlling the phase behaviour of PNiPAM and identifies the excess mixing enthalpy of water/kosmotrope mixtures as a gauge of the kosmotropic effect on hydrophobic assemblies.
Fast Li-ion conduction in poly(ethylene carbonate)-based electrolytes and composites filled with TiO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Tominaga Yoichi , Yamazaki Kenta
Published: March 2014

We have found remarkable ion-conductive properties in a novel polymer electrolyte composed of poly(ethylene carbonate) and Li bis-(fluorosulfonyl) imide.
Composite porous membranes with an ultrathin selective layer for vanadium flow batteries
Authors: Li Yun , Li Xianfeng , Cao Jingyu , Xu Wanxing , Zhang Huamin
Published: March 2014

This work provides a simple method to fabricate composite membranes, combing excellent performance and low cost for VFB application.
Hydrothermal growth and characterization of length tunable porous iron vanadate one-dimensional nanostructures
Authors: Huang Lei , Shi Liyi , Zhao Xin , Xu Jing , Li Hongrui , Zhang Jianping , Zhang Dengsong
Published: March 2014

The length of porous FeVxOy1-D nanostructures could be tuned from several micrometers to several millimeters.
ortho-Hydroxylation of aromatic acids by a non-heme FeVO species: how important is the ligand design?
Authors: Ansari Azaj , Rajaraman Gopalan
Published: March 2014

The mechanisms of theortho-hydroxylation reaction of benzoic acid with two iron-oxo species have been explored, highlighting the importance of ligand design to achieve greater reactivity for these species.
Potassium-selective optical microsensors based on surface modified polystyrene microspheres
Authors: Xie Xiaojiang , Crespo Gastón A. , Zhai Jingying , Szilágyi István , Bakker Eric
Published: March 2014

Ion-selective microspheres based on surface modification of polystyrene particles (0.8 and 2.4 μm, diameter) are presented here for the first time.
Enhanced efficiency of solution-processed small-molecule solar cells upon incorporation of gold nanospheres and nanorods into organic layers
Authors: Xu Xiaoyan , Kyaw Aung Ko Ko , Peng Bo , Du Qingguo , Hong Lei , Demir Hilmi Volkan , Wong Terence K. S. , Xiong Qihua , Sun Xiao Wei
Published: March 2014

Incorporating different shapes of gold nanoparticles into the buffer layer and the active layer enhanced the performance in solution-processed small-molecule solar cells.
Simultaneous encapsulation of an infinite T4(0)A(0)6(0) water tape and discrete water hexamers in a hydrogen-bonded Ag(i) supramolecular framework
Authors: Han Lu-Lu , Hu Tuo-Ping , Chen Jiang-Shan , Li Zhong-Hui , Wang Xing-Po , Zhao Ya-Qin , Li Xiao-Yu , Sun Di
Published: March 2014

In a one-dimensional mixed-ligand Ag(i) coordination polymer, an infinite 1D T4(0)A(0)6(0) water tape and discrete water hexamers were simultaneously encapsulated.
Selective ethenolysis and oestrogenicity of compounds from cashew nut shell liquid
Authors: Julis Jennifer , Bartlett Stuart A. , Baader Sabrina , Beresford Nicola , Routledge Edwin J. , Cazin Catherine S. J. , Cole-Hamilton David J.
Published: March 2014

First generation Ru catalysts are the best for ethenolysis of cardanol to 3-non-8-enylphenol, a precursor to 3-nonylphenyl (3-NP) a potential replacement for the banned 4-nonylphenol (4-NP). The oestrogenicity of 3-NP is reduced by a factor of 150 compared with 4-NP.
Anion influence on transformations of a nonporous 3D to porous 3D coordination polymer
Authors: Hashemi Lida , Morsali Ali , Büyükgüngor Orhan
Published: March 2014

This work is a new strategy for the preparation of a porous metal–organic framework from a nonporous coordination polymer by a solid state reaction.
Porous SnO2 nanoplates for highly sensitive NO detection
Authors: Li Fang , Chen Yuejiao , Ma Jianmin
Published: March 2014

Porous SnO2 nanoplates with high NO response have been successfully prepared by the oxidization conversion of corresponding SnS2 nanoplates.
Large-scale, flexible and high-temperature resistant ZrO2/SiC ultrafine fibers with a radial gradient composition
Authors: Wang Yingde , Han Cheng , Zheng Dechuan , Lei Yongpeng
Published: March 2014

Novel ultrafine ZrO2/SiC fibers with a radial gradient composition were prepared by a simple electrospinning technique combined with subsequent thermal treatment.
High surface area hypercrosslinked microporous organic polymer networks based on tetraphenylethylene for CO2 capture
Authors: Yao Shuwen , Yang Xiao , Yu Miao , Zhang Yinghua , Jiang Jia-Xing
Published: March 2014

A series of hypercrosslinked microporous organic copolymer networks was synthesized via Friedel–Crafts alkylation of tetraphenylethylene (TPE) and/or 1,1,2,2-tetraphenylethane-1,2-diol (TPD) promoted by anhydrous FeCl3.
Three conserved histidine residues contribute to mitochondrial iron transport through mitoferrins
Authors: Brazzolotto Xavier , Pierrel Fabien , Pelosi Ludovic
Published: March 2014

Iron is an essential element for almost all organisms. In eukaryotes, it is mainly used in mitochondria for the biosynthesis of iron–sulfur clusters and haem group maturation. Iron is delivered into the mitochondrion by mitoferrins, members of the MCF (mitochondrial carrier family), through an unknown mechanism. In the present study, the yeast homologues of these proteins, Mrs3p (mitochondrial RNA splicing 3) and Mrs4p, were studied by inserting them into liposomes. In this context, they could transport Fe2+ across the proteoliposome membrane, as shown using the iron chelator bathophenanthroline. A series of amino acid-modifying reagents were screened for their effects on Mrs3p-mediated iron transport. The results of the present study suggest that carboxy and imidazole groups are essential for iron transport. This was confirmed by in vivo complementation assays, which demonstrated that three highly conserved histidine residues are important for Mrs3p function. These histidine residues are not conserved in other MCF members and thus they are likely to play a specific role in iron transport. A model describing how these residues help iron to transit smoothly across the carrier cavity is proposed and compared with the structural and biochemical data available for other carriers in this family.
Vocabulary Gain Among Children With Language Disorders: Contributions of Children’s Behavior Regulation and Emotionally Supportive Environments
Authors: Schmitt Mary Beth , Justice Laura M. , O’Connell Ann
Published: March 2014

Purpose

Behavior regulation is a positive predictor of language outcomes for children with typically developing language skills, and children with language disorders are at greater risk for difficulties with behavior regulation. This study investigated the unique role of behavior regulation on vocabulary gain for children receiving language therapy in the public schools as well as the unique and moderating influence of emotional support within therapy sessions on outcomes.

Method

A total of 121 kindergarten and 1st-grade students with language disorders, nested within 42 speech-language pathologists (SLPs), participated in the study. Direct child measures, indirect child measures, and therapy session videotapes were used for all analyses.

Results

Hierarchical linear modeling indicated a positive association between children’s behavior regulation and vocabulary gain. The emotional support of therapy sessions was not a significant predictor of vocabulary gain.

Conclusions

Results from this study suggest that children’s behavior regulation is a significant predictor of vocabulary gain for children with language disorders; children with higher behavior regulation gain more over the academic year than do peers with lower behavior regulation. Findings highlight the importance of SLPs considering children’s behavior regulation when planning and implementing therapy.
Continuous properties of the solution map for the Euler equations
Authors: Tang Hao , Liu Zhengrong
Published: March 2014

In this paper, we study the dependence on initial data of solutions to the incompressible Euler equations in Besov spaces. We show that for s > n/p + 1, p ∈ (1, ∞), and r ∈ [1, ∞], the solution map u0↦u is Hölder continuous in Besov space $B_{p,r}^s$Bp,rs equipped with weaker topology. When the space variable x is taken to be periodic, we obtain a family of explicit periodic solutions. Furthermore, we prove that for any $s\in \mathbb {R}$s∈R and 1 ⩽ r ⩽ ∞, the solution map is not globally uniformly continuous in $B_{2,r}^{s}(\mathbb {T}^n)$B2,rs(Tn), which extends some results of Himonas and Misiołek [Commun. Math. Phys. 296(1), 285–301 (2010)].
The effect of Coulomb interactions on thermoelectric properties of quantum dots
Authors: Zimbovskaya Natalya A.
Published: March 2014

Thermoelectric effects in a quantum dot coupled to the source and drain charge reservoirs are explored using a nonequilibrium Green's functions formalism beyond the Hartree-Fock approximation. Thermal transport is analyzed within a linear response regime. A transition from Coulomb blockade regime to Kondo regime in thermoelectric transport through a single-level quantum dot is traced using unified approximations for the relevant Green's functions.
Aromatic molecules as spintronic devices
Authors: Ojeda J. H. , Orellana P. A. , Laroze D.
Published: March 2014

In this paper, we study the spin-dependent electron transport through aromatic molecular chains attached to two semi-infinite leads. We model this system taking into account different geometrical configurations which are all characterized by a tight binding Hamiltonian. Based on the Green's function approach with a Landauer formalism, we find spin-dependent transport in short aromatic molecules by applying external magnetic fields. Additionally, we find that the magnetoresistance of aromatic molecules can reach different values, which are dependent on the variations in the applied magnetic field, length of the molecules, and the interactions between the contacts and the aromatic molecule.
The effects of variable viscosity on the decay of homogeneous isotropic turbulence
Authors: Gréa Benoît-Joseph , Griffond Jérôme , Burlot Alan
Published: March 2014

In this paper, we investigate the decay of incompressible homogeneous isotropic turbulence in a variable viscosity fluid. The viscosity coefficient is assumed to depend linearly on a scalar, representing either a temperature or a concentration, and obeying a simple advection-diffusion equation. At high Reynolds numbers, Direct Numerical Simulations (DNS) allow us to confirm the validity of Taylor's postulate that the dissipation is independent from the viscosity and its fluctuations. At low Reynolds numbers, we report the presence of extra energy at small scales due to these variable viscosity effects. This implies that the turbulent kinetic energy decreases less rapidly as a function of time in variable viscosity fluids. In order to explain this phenomenon and quantify its importance on the turbulent flow, we propose a statistical approach based on an eddy-damped quasi-normal Markovian (EDQNM) spectral closure which takes into account the nonlinearity introduced by variable viscosity. It is shown that this latter additional term is of constant sign in the energy spectrum equation and reduces the dissipation of the flow as observed. Also, by assuming the dominance of distant interactions between wave numbers, we can propose a simple formula expressing that variable viscosity effects lead to an effective reduction of the mean viscosity proportional to the variance of viscosity fluctuations.
Far-infrared amplified spontaneous emission and collisional energy transfer between the $E\;0_g^ +$Eg+ (3P2) and $D\;0_u^ +$Du+ (3P2) ion-pair states of I2
Authors: Hoshino Shoma , Araki Mitsunori , Tsukiyama Koichi
Published: March 2014

We report direct observation of far-infrared amplified spontaneous emission from the $E\;0_g^ +$E0g+ (3P2) (vE = 0 − 3) ion-pair state of I2 by using an optical-optical double resonance technique with the B 3Πu ($0_u^ +$0u+) (vB = 19) valence state as the intermediate state. The directional far-infrared emission detected in the wavelength range from 19 to 28 μm was assigned to the vibronic transitions from the $E\;0_g^ +$E0g+ (3P2) ion-pair state to the $D\;0_u^ +$D0u+ (3P2) ion-pair state. The subsequent UV fluorescence from the $D\;0_u^ +$D0u+ (3P2) state was also observed, which consists not only from the vibrational levels populated by the amplified spontaneous emission but also from those populated by collisional energy transfer. Analyses of the vibrational distribution in the $D\;0_u^ +$D0u+ (3P2) state revealed that the population transfer through the amplified spontaneous emission was dominant under our experimental conditions.
Fluid dynamic modeling of nano-thermite reactions
Authors: Martirosyan Karen S. , Zyskin Maxim , Jenkins Charles M. , (Yuki) Horie Yasuyuki
Published: March 2014

This paper presents a direct numerical method based on gas dynamic equations to predict pressure evolution during the discharge of nanoenergetic materials. The direct numerical method provides for modeling reflections of the shock waves from the reactor walls that generates pressure-time fluctuations. The results of gas pressure prediction are consistent with the experimental evidence and estimates based on the self-similar solution. Artificial viscosity provides sufficient smoothing of shock wave discontinuity for the numerical procedure. The direct numerical method is more computationally demanding and flexible than self-similar solution, in particular it allows study of a shock wave in its early stage of reaction and allows the investigation of “slower” reactions, which may produce weaker shock waves. Moreover, numerical results indicate that peak pressure is not very sensitive to initial density and reaction time, providing that all the material reacts well before the shock wave arrives at the end of the reactor.
Theoretical characterization of the “ridge” in the supercritical region in the fluid phase diagram of water
Authors: Matsugami Masaru , Yoshida Norio , Hirata Fumio
Published: March 2014

The density fluctuation of water in the supercritical region was investigated theoretically using the reference interaction site model theory combined with the Kovalenko–Hirata closure relation, the so-called RISM–KH theory. The density fluctuation was evaluated by the numerical differentiation of density with respect to pressure at constant temperature. The density fluctuations plotted against density show finite maxima along a line slightly off from the critical isochore, in accordance with experimental results. The microscopic structures of water on both regions that were separated by the line were investigated by analyzing the site–site radial distribution functions. The analysis clearly indicates that the structure is determined by the two effects featuring liquid states: the packing or volume exclusion effect and the screening of the Coulomb interaction or the hydrogen bond, both becoming more important at higher densities. An interplay of the two effects creates maxima of the density fluctuation in the supercritical region of water.
Phase transitions in metastable phases of silicon
Authors: Zeng Zhidan , Zeng Qiaoshi , Mao Wendy L. , Qu Shaoxing
Published: March 2014

Phase transitions in indentation induced Si-III/XII phases were investigated using a diamond anvil cell and nanoindentation combined with micro-Raman spectroscopy. The in situ high pressure Raman results demonstrate that the Si-III and Si-XII phases have very similar Raman spectra, indicating their relative amount cannot be determined if they are both present in a sample. The Si-III and Si-XII phases coexist in the indentations produced by a nanoindenter on a single crystalline silicon wafer as a result of the local residual compressive stresses near 1 GPa. High power laser annealing on the indentations can initiate a rapid Si-III/XII → Si-I phase transition. The newly formed polycrystalline Si-I phase initially has very small grain size, and the grains grow when the annealing time is extended. Si-IV phase was not observed in our experiment.
Study of Co-phthalocyanine films by surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy
Authors: Serrano A. , Monton C. , Valmianski I. , Gálvez F. , Cortajarena A. L. , de la Venta J. , Schuller Ivan K. , Garcia M. A.
Published: March 2014

We present a Surface Plasmon Resonance spectroscopy study of Co-Phthalocyanine (CoPc) thin films grown on Au layers at different substrate temperatures. We demonstrate that for quantitative analysis, fitting of the resonance angle alone is insufficient and Whole Curve Analysis (WCA) needs to be performed. This is because CoPc thin film dielectric constant and thickness are strongly affected by substrate temperature, even when the total deposited mass remains fixed. Using WCA, we are able to uniquely fit both the dielectric constants and the thicknesses of the films without making a priori assumptions.
Tailoring magnetic and microwave absorption properties of glass-coated soft ferromagnetic amorphous microwires for microwave energy sensing
Authors: Devkota J. , Colosimo P. , Chen A. , Larin V. S. , Srikanth H. , Phan M. H.
Published: March 2014

A comparative study of the magnetic softness, giant magnetoimpedance (GMI) effect, and microwave absorption capacity of glass-coated amorphous Co64.63Fe4.97B16Si11Cr3.4Ni0.02 and Co68B15Si10Mn7 microwires has been performed. We find that the Mn-containing sample exhibits a softer magnetic property, a larger GMI ratio, and a higher microwave absorption capacity as compared to those with a Fe-Cr-Ni composition. As a result, the Mn-containing microwire is shown to be a better microwave absorber for fabrication of a new class of microwave energy sensor based on Fiber Bragg Grating. Our study emphasizes a correlation between the magnetic softness, GMI, and microwave absorption in the microwires and paves the way to improving the performance of such sensors by tailoring their soft magnetic properties.
The role of orbital order in the stabilization of the (π, 0) ordered magnetic state in a minimal two-band model for iron pnictides
Authors: Ghosh Sayandip , Singh Avinash
Published: March 2014

Spin wave excitations and stability of the (π, 0) ordered magnetic state are investigated in a minimal two-band itinerant-electron model for iron pnictides. Presence of hopping anisotropy generates a strong ferro-orbital order in the dxz and dyz Fe orbitals in the (π, 0) state. The orbital order sign is as observed in experiments. The induced ferro-orbital order strongly enhances the spin wave energy scale and stabilizes the magnetic state by optimizing the strength of the emergent antiferromagnetically and ferromagnetically spin couplings through optimal band fillings in the two orbitals. The calculated spin-wave dispersion is in quantitative agreement with neutron scattering measurements. Finite inter-orbital Hund's coupling is shown to further enhance the spin wave energies state by coupling the two magnetic sub-systems. A more realistic two-band model with less hopping anisotropy is also considered, which yields not only the circular hole pockets but also correct ferro-orbital order and emergent F spin coupling.
Surveying the Surveillance: Surgical Site Infections Excluded by the January 2013 Updated Surveillance Definitions
Authors: Dicks Kristen V. , Lewis Sarah S. , Durkin Michael J. , Baker Arthur W. , Moehring Rebekah W. , Chen Luke F. , Sexton Daniel J. , Anderson Deverick J.
Published: March 2014

The updated 2013 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/National Healthcare Safety Network definitions for surgical site infections (SSIs) reduced the duration of prolonged surveillance from 1 year to 90 days and defined which procedure types require prolonged surveillance. Applying the updated 2013 SSI definitions to cases analyzed using the pre-2013 surveillance definitions excluded 10% of previously identified SSIs.
Algorithm for Identifying Nursing Home Days Using Medicare Claims and Minimum Data Set Assessment Data
Authors: Wei Yu-Jung , Simoni-Wastila Linda , Zuckerman Ilene H. , Brandt Nicole , Lucas Judith A.
Published: March 2014

Background:

No consensus exists about methods of measuring nursing home (NH) length-of-stay for Medicare beneficiaries to identify long-stay and short-stay NH residents.

Objectives:

To develop an algorithm measuring NH days of stay to differentiate between residents with long and short stay (≥101 and <101 consecutive days, respectively) and to compare the algorithm with Minimum Data Set (MDS) alone and Medicare claims data.

Research Design:

We linked 2006–2009 MDS assessments to Medicare Part A skilled nursing facility (SNF) data. This algorithm determined the daily NH stay evidence by MDS and SNF dates. NH length-of-stay and characteristics were reported in the total, long-stay, and short-stay residents. Long-stay residents identified by the algorithm were compared with the NH evidence from MDS-alone and Medicare parts A and B data.

Results:

Of 276,844 residents identified by our algorithm, 40.8% were long stay. Long-stay versus short-stay residents tended to be older, male, white, unmarried, low-income subsidy recipients, have multiple comorbidities, and have higher mortality but have fewer hospitalizations and SNF services. Higher proportions of long-stay and short-stay residents identified by the MDS/SNF algorithm were classified in the same group using MDS-only (98.9% and 100%, respectively), compared with the parts A and B data (95.0% and 67.1%, respectively). NH length-of-stay was similar between MDS/SNF and MDS-only long-stay residents (mean±SD: 717±422 vs. 720±441 d), but the lengths were longer compared with the parts A and B data (approximately 474±393 d).

Conclusions:

Our MDS/SNF algorithm allows the differentiation of long-stay and short-stay residents, resulting in an NH group more precise than using Medicare claims data only.