bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polyynyl-Substituted PAH Molecules and DIB Carriers
Authors: Rouillé G. , Jäger C. , Huisken F. , Henning T.
Published: February 2014

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) molecules have been long considered promising candidates for the carriers of the diffuse interstellar bands (DIBs). The PAH-DIB hypothesis, however, raises two major issues. First, the number of interstellar PAH species is potentially orders of magnitude larger than the number of DIBs. Second, the absorption spectrum of a PAH is in general dominated by bands found at UV wavelengths while, conversely, DIBs are absent from the UV wavelength domain and arise at visible and near IR wavelengths. These issues do not necessarily weaken the PAH-DIB hypothesis and can actually allow us to refine it. In that context, we analyze the UV/vis absorption spectra of PAH molecules isolated in Ne matrices and propose that polyynyl-substituted PAHs, or similar species, are valid candidates for the carriers of the DIBs. Finally, a possible lifecycle for DIB-carrying PAHs is presented.
Theoretical Electronic and Rovibrational Studies for Anions of Interest to the DIBs
Authors: Fortenberry R. C.
Published: February 2014

The dipole-bound excited state of the methylene nitrile anion (CH2CN−) has been suggested as a candidate carrier for a diffuse interstellar band (DIB) at 803.8 nm. Its corresponding radical has been detected in the interstellar medium (ISM), making the existence for the anion possible. This work applies state-of-the-art ab initio methods such as coupled cluster theory to reproduce accurately the electronic excitations for CH2CN− and the similar methylene enolate anion, CH2CHO−. This same approach has been employed to indicate that 19 other anions may possess electronically excited states, five of which are valence in nature. Concurrently, in order to assist in the detection of these anions in the ISM, work has also been directed towards predicting vibrational frequencies and spectroscopic constants for these anions through the use of quartic force fields (QFFs). Theoretical rovibrational work on anions has thus far included studies of CH2CN−, C3H−, and is currently ongoing for similar systems.
Solid State DIBs
Authors: Linnartz H.
Published: February 2014

The diffuse interstellar bands are not due to solid state species. However, under the explicit assumption that DIB carriers survive the transfer from translucent to dark clouds, it is expected that for the low temperatures in the dense interstellar medium also DIB carriers accrete onto dust grains. Like all other molecules, apart from molecular hydrogen, they will get embedded in an ice matrix that largely consists of amorphous solid water. This offers - in principle - a tool to search for DIBs in complete different environments, both in space (i.e., towards embedded young stellar objects) and in the laboratory, namely in the solid state simulating interstellar ice analogues. Currently experiments are ongoing in the Sackler Laboratory for Astrophysics at Leiden Observatory to record optical ice spectra of potential DIB carriers. For this a new experimental approach has been developed. Its performance and potential are discussed.
A Road Map for the Identification of the Diffuse Interstellar Band Carriers
Authors: Cox N. L. J. , Cami J.
Published: February 2014

We present a road map of several research avenues leading to the identification of the diffuse interstellar band carriers. The proposed programs represent some consensus among the DIB community, and will certainly take many years to complete. However, the scientific payoff will be huge, and will ultimately lead to the solution of the DIB problem.
Electrochemical sensing of hepatocyte viability
Authors: Tsai Hweiyan , Tsai Shang-heng , Ting Wei-Jen , Hu Chao-Chin , Fuh C. Bor
Published: February 2014

Chronoamperometry using ferricyanide and succinate mediators is an efficient analytical tool for assessing the viability of primary hepatocytes.
68Ga chelating bioorthogonal tetrazine polymers for the multistep labeling of cancer biomarkers
Authors: Nichols Brandon , Qin Zhengtao , Yang Jun , Vera David R. , Devaraj Neal K.
Published: February 2014

There has been significant interest in the use of bioorthogonal inverse Diels–Alder cycloadditions in molecular imaging. We have developed metal chelating tetrazine probes that extend tetrazine cycloadditions to the convenient and generator produced positron emitting isotope gallium-68 (68Ga).
Sodium superionic conduction in Na2B12H12
Authors: Udovic Terrence J. , Matsuo Motoaki , Unemoto Atsushi , Verdal Nina , Stavila Vitalie , Skripov Alexander V. , Rush John J. , Takamura Hitoshi , Orimo Shin-ichi
Published: February 2014

Na2B12H12exhibits dramatic Na+conductivity (on the order of 0.1 S cm−1) above its order-disorder phase transition at ≈529 K, rivaling that of current, solid-state, ceramic-based, Na-battery electrolytes.
Copper based TiO2 honeycomb monoliths for CO2 photoreduction
Authors: Ola Oluwafunmilola , Mercedes Maroto-Valer M.
Published: February 2014

Copper based TiO2 monolithic structures threaded with optical fibers exhibit better activity than pure TiO2 for CO2 reduction under visible or UV light irradiation.
Visualising intrinsic disorder and conformational variation in protein ensembles
Authors: Heinrich Julian , Krone Michael , O'Donoghue Seán I. , Weiskopf Daniel
Published: February 2014

Intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) in proteins are still not well understood, but are increasingly recognised as important in key biological functions, as well as in diseases. IDRs often confound experimental structure determination—however, they are present in many of the available 3D structures, where they exhibit a wide range of conformations, from ill-defined and highly flexible to well-defined upon binding to partner molecules, or upon post-translational modifications. Analysing such large conformational variations across ensembles of 3D structures can be complex and difficult; our goal in this paper is to improve this situation by augmenting traditional approaches (molecular graphics and principal components) with methods from human–computer interaction and information visualisation, especially parallel coordinates. We present a new tool integrating these approaches, and demonstrate how it can dissect ensembles to reveal functional insights into conformational variation and intrinsic disorder.
s-Methyl cysteine enhanced survival of nerve growth factor differentiated PC12 cells under hypoxic conditions
Authors: Liu Chun-lin , Hsia Te-chun , Yin Mei-chin
Published: February 2014

A nerve growth factor-differentiated PC12 cell line was used to investigate the protective effects ofs-methyl cysteine (SMC) at 1, 2, 4, and 8 μM under oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) conditions.
Tunable and selective detection of cancer cells using a betainized zwitterionic polymer with BODIPY and graphene oxide
Authors: Lee So Yeong , Kim Sung Han , Kim Sung Min , Lee Hyukjin , Lee Gibaek , Park Sung Young
Published: February 2014

Novel fluorescence probes, reduced graphene oxide (rGO) containing zwitterionic fluorescent nanoparticles, for effective diagnosis of cancer cells.
Ultrafast and scalable laser liquid synthesis of tin oxide nanotubes and its application in lithium ion batteries
Authors: Liu Zhikun , Cao Zeyuan , Deng Biwei , Wang Yuefeng , Shao Jiayi , Kumar Prashant , Liu C. Richard , Wei Bingqing , Cheng Gary J.
Published: February 2014

Laser-induced scalable and quick photo-chemical synthesis of tin oxide nanotubes has been illustrated and their application in lithium ion batteries has been investigated.
The synthesis of aminonaphtols and β-amino carbonyls in the presence of a magnetic recyclable Fe3O4@MCM-48–NaHSO4nano catalyst
Authors: Golshekan Mostafa , Shariati Shahab , Saadatjoo Naghi
Published: February 2014

Sulfonic acid functionalized mesoporous magnetite nanoparticles as an efficient, heterogeneous and recyclable catalyst for the synthesis of aminonaphtols and β-amino carbonyls. Advantages: good yields, rapid reaction, solvent-free conditions and room temperature.
Upconversion fluorescence resonance energy transfer biosensor for sensitive detection of human immunodeficiency virus antibodies in human serum
Authors: Wu Yan-Mei , Cen Yao , Huang Li-Jiao , Yu Ru-Qin , Chu Xia
Published: February 2014

An upconversion FRET-based biosensor has been developed for the sensitive and selective determination of HIV antibodies in human serum.
Using ancillary ligands to tune the DNA binding properties of self-assembled luminescent metallomacrocycles
Authors: Ahmad Haslina , Ghosh Dipesh , Thomas Jim A.
Published: February 2014

The DNA binding mode and optical binding response of a self-assembled metallomacrocycle can be turned through its ancillary ligands.
Generalized approximate spin projection calculations of effective exchange integrals of the CaMn4O5 cluster in the S1 and S3 states of the oxygen evolving complex of photosystem II
Authors: Isobe H. , Shoji M. , Yamanaka S. , Mino H. , Umena Y. , Kawakami K. , Kamiya N. , Shen J.-R. , Yamaguchi K.
Published: February 2014

Broken-symmetry UB3LYP calculations have elucidated structural symmetry-breaking in the S1 and S3 states of the oxygen evolution complex (OEC) of photosystem II (PSII), providing the right (RO)- and left (LO)-opened structures.
Nickel L-edge and K-edge X-ray absorption spectroscopy of non-innocent Ni[S2C2(CF3)2]2nseries (n = −2, −1, 0): direct probe of nickel fractional oxidation state changes
Authors: Gu Weiwei , Wang Hongxin , Wang Kun
Published: February 2014

Ni L- and K-edge X-ray absorption spectroscopies reveal Ni oxidation state changes experimentally and quantitatively ∼30% with 1-electron oxidation for Ni[S2C2(CF3)2]2n.
Side information generation for frame rate scalable distributed video codecs
Authors: Lee Myeong‐jin
Published: February 2014

A side information (SI) generation method is presented for the distributed video codecs with a scalable frame rate. SI interpolation, based on a hierarchical motion estimation with an adaptive block expansion, is proposed to reduce the power of the virtual channel noise, especially in sequences with lower frame rates. Blocks are classified into subframes in descending order of the estimated sum of the absolute difference (SAD), and each subframe is encoded if the maximum SAD of its blocks is larger than the estimated distortion of the key frames. Through a simulation, the proposed scheme is shown to achieve a coding efficiency close to that of H.264 with a zero motion even for very low frame rates.
Multi-parametric approach towards the assessment of radon and thoron progeny exposures
Authors: Mishra Rosaline , Sapra B. K. , Mayya Y. S.
Published: February 2014

Conventionally, the dosimetry is carried out using radon and thoron gas concentration measurements and doses have been assigned using assumed equilibrium factors for the progeny species, which is inadequate pertaining to the variations in equilibrium factors and possibly due to significant thoron. In fact, since the true exposures depend upon the intricate mechanisms of progeny deposition in the lung, therefore an integrated approach for the assessment of progeny is essential. In this context, the recently developed deposition based progeny concentration measurement techniques (DTPS: Direct Thoron progeny sensors and DRPS: Direct Radon progeny sensors) appear to be best suited for radiological risk assessments both among occupational workers and general study populations. DTPS and DRPS consist of aluminized mylar mounted LR115 type passive detectors, which essentially detects the alpha particles emitted from the deposited progeny atoms on the detector surface. It gives direct measure of progeny activity concentrations in air. DTPS has a lower limit of detection limit of 0.1 Bq/m3 whereas that for DRPS is 1 Bq/m3, hence are perfectly suitable for indoor environments. These DTPS and DRPS can be capped with 200-mesh type wire-screen to measure the coarse fraction of the progeny concentration and the corresponding coarse fraction deposition velocities as well as the time integrated fine fraction. DTPS and DRPS can also be lodged in an integrated sampler wherein the wire-mesh and filter-paper are arranged in an array in flow-mode, to measure the fine and coarse fraction concentration separately and simultaneously. The details are further discussed in the paper.
Spatial modulation spectroscopy of graphene sheets
Authors: Havard Nicolas , Li Zhongming , Murthy Vaishnav , Lo Shun Shang , Hartland Gregory V.
Published: February 2014

Two different samples of graphene, multi-layer flakes on Si/SiO2 substrates and single layer graphene on glass, have been examined by reflectivity contrast and spatial modulation spectroscopy measurements. For the multi-layer graphene flakes, the reflectivity contrast and spatial modulation spectroscopy measurements are in good agreement, validating the application of spatial modulation spectroscopy to two-dimensional samples. The measurements for single layer graphene on glass show features that correspond to increases and decreases in reflectivity. The features with increased reflectivity are assigned to small regions of multilayer graphene or polymer, and the features with decreased reflectivity are assigned to holes in the graphene film. Using a model for thin film reflectivity we calculate the size dependent spatial modulation signal for the holes, and find that a significant number of holes have a larger than expected signal. This could arise from the presence of multi-layers of graphene in the sample, or because of optical resonance effects for the holes.
A high-bandwidth amplitude estimation technique for dynamic mode atomic force microscopy
Authors: Karvinen K. S. , Moheimani S. O. R.
Published: February 2014

While often overlooked, one of the prerequisites for high-speed amplitude modulation atomic force microscopy is a high-bandwidth amplitude estimation technique. Conventional techniques, such as RMS to DC conversion and the lock-in amplifier, have proven useful, but offer limited measurement bandwidth and are not suitable for high-speed imaging. Several groups have developed techniques, but many of these are either difficult to implement or lack robustness. In this contribution, we briefly outline existing amplitude estimation methods and propose a new high-bandwidth estimation technique, inspired by techniques employed in microwave and RF circuit design, which utilizes phase cancellation to significantly improve the performance of the lock-in amplifier. We conclude with the design and implementation of a custom circuit to experimentally demonstrate the improvements and discuss its application in high-speed and multifrequency atomic force microscopy.
Growth of high-quality SnS epitaxial films by H2S flow pulsed laser deposition
Authors: Ran Fan-Yong , Xiao Zewen , Hiramatsu Hidenori , Hosono Hideo , Kamiya Toshio
Published: February 2014

SnS epitaxial films were grown on MgO (100) substrates by pulsed laser deposition using a H2S gas as an S source. High growth temperature and high H2S gas flow rate caused re-evaporation and etching of the deposited films; therefore, the optimum condition was limited to a narrow region around 400 °C. The measured bandgap 1.08 eV is consistent with the previously reported theoretical calculation. The films with a S/Sn ratio of ∼1.0 showed the largest mobility of ∼37 cm2/(Vs). The hole transport was dominated by domain boundary potential barriers ∼0.05 eV in height.
High quality Y-type hexaferrite thick films for microwave applications by an economical and environmentally benign crystal growth technique
Authors: Hu Bolin , Chen Yajie , Gillette Scott , Su Zhijuan , Wolf Jason , McHenry Michael E. , Harris Vincent G.
Published: February 2014

Thick barium hexaferrite Ba2Zn2Fe12O22 (i.e., Zn2Y) films having thicknesses of ∼100 μm were epitaxially grown on MgO (111) substrates using an environmentally benign ferrite-salt mixture by vaporizing the salt. X-ray diffraction pole figure analyses showed (00l) crystallographic alignment with little in plane dispersion confirming epitaxial growth. Saturation magnetization, 4πMs, was measured for as-grown films to be 2.51 ± 0.1 kG with an out of plane magnetic anisotropy field HA of 8.9 ± 0.1 kOe. Ferromagnetic resonance linewidth, as the peak-to-peak power absorption derivative at 9.6 GHz, was measured to be 62 Oe. These properties demonstrate a rapid, convenient, cost-effective, and nontoxic method of growing high quality thick crystalline ferrite films which could be used widely for microwave device applications.
Second-harmonic generation in dry powders: A simple experimental method to determine nonlinear efficiencies under strong light scattering
Authors: Aramburu I. , Ortega J. , Folcia C. L. , Etxebarria J.
Published: February 2014

A simple experimental method for determining the efficiency of second harmonic generation (SHG) using small amounts of dry crystalline powder is described. Contrary to previous techniques, the light scattering effects are explicitly accounted for, and a procedure to eliminate their influence is proposed. The method also permits to assess whether a particular crystal is phase matchable or not. Second-order susceptibility coefficients of eight relevant materials for SHG are determined, and the agreement with the single-crystal data is, in general, fairly good. For polycrystalline ZnSe samples, a situation of the so-called random quasiphase matching is evidenced.
Optimized V-shape design of GaN nanodiodes for the generation of Gunn oscillations
Authors: Millithaler J.-F. , Iñiguez-de-la-Torre I. , Iñiguez-de-la-Torre A. , González T. , Sangaré P. , Ducournau G. , Gaquière C. , Mateos J.
Published: February 2014

In this work, recent advances in the design of GaN planar Gunn diodes with asymmetric shape, so-called self-switching diodes, are presented. A particular geometry for the nanodiode is proposed, referred as V-shape, where the width of the channel is intentionally increased as approaching the anode. This design, which reduces the effect of the surface-charges at the anode side, is the most favourable one for the onset of Gunn oscillations, which emerge at lower current levels and with lower threshold voltages as compared to the standard square geometry, thus enhancing the power efficiency of the self-switching diode as sub-millimeter wave emitters.
Probabilistic evaluation of available power of a renewable generation system consisting of wind turbines and storage batteries: A Markov chain method
Authors: Li Jing , Wei Wei
Published: February 2014

A major drawback of renewable power sources is their fluctuant characteristics. To overcome this drawback, a battery storage system is the prevalent way to smooth the fluctuation of renewable power sources. It is a critical problem whether such a smooth can lead to a constant output power for a renewable generator consisting of renewable power source and the associated battery storage system. This paper provides a probabilistic answer for this problem by making use of Markov Chain method. The obtained results are analytic and their efficacy is verified by a comparison with that the Monte Carlo simulation technique.
Using Ecopath Modeling to Describe Historical Conditions for a Large, Boreal Lake Ecosystem prior to European Settlement
Authors: McGregor Andrea M.
Published: February 2014

To help guide restoration efforts at a large-lake ecosystem (Lac la Biche) in Alberta, Canada, I used Ecopath modeling software to create an energetically plausible model representing the system prior to European settlement. Over the last 200 years, Lac la Biche has shifted from a system dominated by predatory fish (e.g., Walleyes Sander vitreus and Northern Pike Esox lucius) to one dominated by forage fish and double-crested cormorants Phalacrocorax auritus. In 2005, the Fisheries Management Branch of Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development initiated a fisheries restoration program focused on increasing the abundance of Walleyes and average fish size in Lac la Biche; restoration would target a nondescript “historical” ecosystem configuration based on contemporary assumptions of what the system might have looked like. I used Ecopath to organize the main assumptions and information on the historical Lac la Biche ecosystem into an energetically plausible representation for the year 1800. From the modeling process, I learned that most of the assumptions regarding the trends in species biomass between contemporary and historical systems were appropriate guides for model balancing; however, the magnitude of the expected differences between 1800 and the present day were often larger than predicted, especially for infrequently sampled species (e.g., Yellow Perch Perca flavescens, White Suckers Catostomus commersonii, Spottail Shiners Notropis hudsonius, and Burbot Lota lota). Testing the validity of single-species assumptions in an ecosystem context is important for improving our understanding of ecosystem structure and function. In a historical context, model creation based on assumptions and available information is important for developing ecosystem baselines that can provide context to and guide future fisheries management. Historical baselines are also important for highlighting ecosystem potential and productive capacity and for counteracting the effects of the shifting baseline syndrome.

Received February 13, 2012; accepted August 2, 2013

Published online December 23, 2013
Evaluation of Calcein and Photonic Marking for Cultured Delta Smelt
Authors: Castillo Gonzalo , Morinaka Jerry , Fujimura Robert , DuBois Jason , Baskerville-Bridges Bradd , Lindberg Joan , Tigan Galen , Ellison Luke , Hobbs James
Published: February 2014

The Delta Smelt Hypomesus transpacificus is a protected osmerid endemic to the San Francisco estuary of California. We conducted laboratory tests on marked versus unmarked juvenile adult smelt to evaluate (1) calcein mark intensity and postmarking survival for juveniles and adults, (2) photonic mark retention and survival of adults, and (3) predation by juvenile Striped Bass Morone saxatilis. Calcein mark intensity was graded in six body sections and adults were photonically marked using four fin-color combinations. Across all immersion times (1–7 min) all fish showed 100% mark retention 7 d after exposure to calcein concentrations of 2.5 and 5.0 g/L of water. Average survival 7 d after calcein marking was 93.9% in juveniles and 98.6% in adults. After 97 d of calcein and photonic marking, adults had weaker double marking, but each type of mark still showed 100% retention. Average survival of adult fish 70 d after marking was 98.7%. Unmarked and calcein + photonically marked adult Delta Smelt exposed to juvenile Striped Bass did not experience significantly different predation rates. Calcein is both effective and practical to batch-mark juvenile and adult Delta Smelt. Combined calcein and photonic marking for adult Delta Smelt further enables identification of multiple groups while potentially improving mark detection in short-term studies.

Received October 1, 2012; accepted August 22, 2013

Published online January 14, 2014
Planning Pacific Salmon and Steelhead Reintroductions Aimed at Long-Term Viability and Recovery
Authors: Anderson Joseph H. , Pess George R. , Carmichael Richard W. , Ford Michael J. , Cooney Thomas D. , Baldwin Casey M. , McClure Michelle M.
Published: February 2014

Local extirpations of Pacific salmon Oncorhynchus spp. and steelhead O. mykiss, often due to dams and other stream barriers, are common throughout the western United States. Reestablishing salmonid populations in areas they historically occupied has substantial potential to assist conservation efforts, but best practices for reintroduction are not well established. In this paper, we present a framework for planning reintroductions designed to promote the recovery of salmonids listed under the Endangered Species Act. Before implementing a plan, managers should first describe the benefits, risks, and constraints of a proposed reintroduction. We define benefits as specific biological improvements towards recovery objectives. Risks are the potential negative outcomes of reintroductions that could worsen conservation status rather than improve it. Constraints are biological factors that will determine whether the reintroduction successfully establishes a self-sustaining population. We provide guidance for selecting a recolonization strategy (natural colonization, transplanting, or hatchery releases), a source population, and a method for providing passage that will maximize the probability of conservation benefit while minimizing risks. Monitoring is necessary to determine whether the reintroduction successfully achieved the benefits and to evaluate the impacts on nontarget species or populations. Many of the benefits, especially diversity and the evolution of locally adapted population segments, are likely to accrue over decadal time scales. Thus, we view reintroduction as a long-term approach to enhancing viability. Finally, our review of published salmonid reintroduction case studies suggests that large uncertainties remain in the success of reintroduction in establishing self-sustaining populations, particularly for programs employing active methods.

Received September 10, 2012; accepted August 30, 2013

Published online January 30, 2014
Bull Trout Trends in Abundance and Probabilities of Persistence in Idaho
Authors: Meyer Kevin A. , Garton Edward O. , Schill Daniel J.
Published: February 2014

We estimated the population growth rates of Bull Trout Salvelinus confluentus and used population growth models to evaluate observation error and estimate Bull Trout persistence probabilities by using 25 data sets (averaging 19 years of record) that indexed abundance across Idaho. These data sets were derived from a variety of fish sampling techniques, including weirs, screw traps, redd counts, daytime snorkeling, electrofishing, and angler creel. Bull Trout populations in Idaho were relatively stable prior to 1994, but after 1994, substantially more population growth rates trended statistically upward (n = 14) than downward (n = 3). Average intrinsic rates of population change were 0.01 (SE = 0.03) prior to 1994 and 0.07 (SE = 0.02) after 1994; across all years of data, the rate of change averaged 0.07 (SE = 0.02). Fifty-nine percent of the data sets had zero to minimal observation error according to Gompertz state-space model estimates; observation error was least common in data from screw traps and redd counts and most common in snorkel data. Gompertz-type density-dependent models were most often the best-fitting models for Bull Trout population growth. Moreover, few of the most reliable modeling results (i.e., those from data sets estimated to have zero to minimal observation error) contained a period effect or time (i.e., year) effect, suggesting that carrying capacity generally did not differ between the pre-1994 and post-1994 periods and generally was not trending positively or negatively through time. Parametric bootstraps predicted that the mean probability of falling below the quasi-extinction level of 20 adults in the next 30 years was 9.8% (median = 4.7%) for data sets estimated to have zero to minimal observation error. The weight of evidence from our modeling results suggests that for most Bull Trout populations in Idaho, abundance is stable or increasing and the risk of extirpation in the foreseeable future is low.

Received March 12, 2013; accepted November 18, 2013

Published online February 10, 2014
Between cosmopolitanism and nationhood: Italian opera in the early nineteenth century
Authors: Sorba Carlotta
Published: February 2014

The revival of interest in music evident in recent historiography has led to an investigation of the specifically transnational nature of musical languages and practices. This article explores the possibility of re-reading in a transnational perspective the classical theme of the relationship between the Risorgimento and opera. It focuses on two different points of view: on the one hand, the construction of the librettos as a delicate balance between European romantic narratives and dramatic themes evoking nationalistic sentiments; on the other, the fact that ideas and practices of the theatre as a vehicle of political mobilisation developed in a broad international context where Mazzini and many other nationalists found inspiration in multinational political experiences and discourses. The article concludes by saying that the meanings of terms such as cosmopolitanism and nationalism need to be carefully weighed when we look at nineteenth-century opera production. Only in the closing decades of the century did genuine competition between national traditions arise, which led in Italy to a veritable ‘obsession’ with ‘Italianness’ in music.
The Anti-Risorgimento as a transnational experience
Authors: Sarlin Simon
Published: February 2014

The struggle led after 1860 by the Anti-Risorgimento (understood as the conservative opposition to Italian unification) went beyond the frontiers of new Italy. The transnationality of this campaign manifested itself in numerous ways, from international networks of financial support and militancy that were closely associated with counter-revolution and supported by the international structures of the Roman Catholic Church, to forms of transnational mobilisation such as armed volunteerism. This internationalisation of anti-Unity fighting was a conscious strategy of the movement's leaders. They relied on a tradition of solidarity and exchange within the ultraconservative camp – a sort of ‘white international’ – to further the transnational construction of a European identity of counter-revolution. In Italy, the victory of the nationalist movement endowed various anti-liberal forces with a common adversary and common goals; yet the strategy adopted by the Papacy (still a temporal power until 1870), in relation to the cause of the dispossessed sovereigns, was not devoid of ambiguity.
Looking to the east and the west: the double-attachment strategy used by the Hong Kong government to develop welfare to work measures for lone parents
Authors: Yu Sam W.K. , Chau Ruby C.M. , Boxall Kathy , Chung Wind C.Y.
Published: February 2014

This article discusses how the Hong Kong government used a double-attachment strategy to develop welfare to work measures for lone parents; and demonstrates how this discussion could contribute to the study of the cultural and political economy perspectives on East Asian welfare regimes. It shows that the Hong Kong government developed welfare to work measures with reference not only to the New Deal for Lone Parents in the UK, but also to certain traditional Chinese principles. In view of the Hong Kong government's attempt to attach its welfare policies to its own tradition and to the thinking of Western world, it is argued that both cultural and political economy perspectives are significant in the study of East Asian welfare regimes. Moreover, it is important to have a realistic understanding of the uniqueness of East Asian countries in the ways they organize welfare even though there are similarities with Western countries.
Introduction to cell–hydrogel mechanosensing
Authors: Ahearne Mark
Published: February 2014

The development of hydrogel-based biomaterials represents a promising approach to generating new strategies for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. In order to develop more sophisticated cell-seeded hydrogel constructs, it is important to understand how cells mechanically interact with hydrogels. In this paper, we review the mechanisms by which cells remodel hydrogels, the influence that the hydrogel mechanical and structural properties have on cell behaviour and the role of mechanical stimulation in cell-seeded hydrogels. Cell-mediated remodelling of hydrogels is directed by several cellular processes, including adhesion, migration, contraction, degradation and extracellular matrix deposition. Variations in hydrogel stiffness, density, composition, orientation and viscoelastic characteristics all affect cell activity and phenotype. The application of mechanical force on cells encapsulated in hydrogels can also instigate changes in cell behaviour. By improving our understanding of cell–material mechano-interactions in hydrogels, this should enable a new generation of regenerative medical therapies to be developed.
Taibaiella
chishuiensis sp. nov., isolated from freshwater
Authors: Tan Xu , Zhang Ren-Gang , Meng Tian-Yi , Liang Hui-Zhen , Lv Jie
Published: February 2014

A Gram-reaction-negative, strictly aerobic, non-motile and rod-shaped bacterial strain, AY17T, was isolated from the Chishui River in Guizhou Province, South-west China. Strain AY17T grew optimally at pH 7.0 and 20 °C. Flexirubin-type pigments were produced. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis indicated that strain AY17T belonged to the family

Chitinophagaceae

within the phylum

Bacteroidetes

; the closest phylogenetic relative was

Taibaiella smilacinae

PTJT-5T (95.3 % gene sequence similarity). The DNA G+C content was 49.5 mol%. Strain AY17T contained MK-7 as the predominant respiratory quinone and phosphatidylethanolamine as the major polar lipid. The major fatty acids were iso-C15 : 0, iso-C15 : 1G and iso-C17 : 0 3-OH. On the basis of phylogenetic, phenotypic and genetic data, strain AY17T was classified as representing a novel species of the genus

Taibaiella

, for which the name Taibaiella chishuiensis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is AY17T ( = CGMCC 1.12700T = JCM 19637T).
Psychroglaciecola arctica gen. nov., sp. nov., isolated from Arctic glacial foreland soil
Authors: Qu Zhihao , Jiang Fan , Chang Xulu , Qiu Xia , Ren Lvzhi , Fang Chengxiang , Peng Fang
Published: February 2014

A novel pink-pigmented, facultatively methylotrophic strain, designated M6-76T, was isolated from glacial foreland soil near Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard Archipelago, Norway. Cells of strain M6-76T were rod-shaped (0.4–0.7×0.8–2.0 µm), Gram-stain-negative, aerobic and motile by a single polar flagellum. Growth occurred at 4–28 °C (optimum 18 °C) and at pH 5–8 (optimum pH 7). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain M6-76T belonged to the family

Methylobacteriaceae

. The 16S rRNA gene sequence of the novel strain showed 94.6 %, 94.0 % and 93.9 % sequence similarity to those of

Methylobacterium salsuginis

MRT,

Methylobacterium organophilum

ATCC 27886T and

Microvirga subterranea

FaiI4T, respectively. Cells could utilize methanol as the sole source of carbon and energy but not formate. The major respiratory quinone was Q-10. The polar lipids were phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylmonomethylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylcholine and two unknown polar lipids. The predominant cellular fatty acids were summed feature 8 (C18 : 1ω7c and/or C18 : 1ω6c), summed feature 3 (C16 : 1ω6c and/or C16 : 1ω7c) and C16 : 0. The DNA G+C content was 67 mol%. The polyphasic data presented in this study indicated that the isolate should be classified as representing a novel species of a new genus within the family

Methylobacteriaceae

. The name Psychroglaciecola
arctica gen. nov., sp. nov. is therefore proposed for the isolate. The type strain of the type species is M6-76T ( = CCTCC AB 2013033T = KACC 17684T).
2,9-Bis(5-sulfanylidene-4,5-dihydro-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)-1,10-phenanthroline dimethyl sulfoxide disolvate
Authors: Rahman Md. A , Karim Mohammad , Arifuzzaman Md. , Siddiquee Tasneem , Daniels Lee M.
Published: February 2014

In the title compound, C16H8N6O2S2·2C2H6OS, the phenanthroline molecule resides on a twofold axis, and the asymmetric unit also contains a slightly disordered [occupancy ratio for S atom of 0.95 (3):0.047 (3)] molecule of dimethyl sulfoxide. The O atoms of the solvent molecule accept hydrogen bonds from the N—H groups of the five-membered 2,3-dihydro-1,3,4-oxadiazole-2-thione ring. This ring is nearly coplanar with the phenanthroline ring, with a dihedral angle between their least-squares planes of 8.86 (6)°. In the crystal, the molecules are linked by C—H...O interactions.
Energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction mapping on a benchtop X-ray fluorescence system
Authors: Lane David W. , Nyombi Antony , Shackel James
Published: February 2014

A method for energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction mapping is presented, using a conventional low-power benchtop X-ray fluorescence spectrometer, the Seiko Instruments SEA6000VX. Hyper spectral X-ray maps with a 10 µm step size were collected from polished metal surfaces, sectioned Bi, Pb and steel shot gun pellets. Candidate diffraction lines were identified by eliminating those that matched a characteristic line for an element and those predicted for escape peaks, sum peaks, and Rayleigh and Compton scattered primary X-rays. The maps showed that the crystallites in the Bi pellet were larger than those observed in the Pb and steel pellets. The application of benchtop spectrometers to energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction mapping is discussed, and the capability for lower atomic number and lower-symmetry materials is briefly explored using multi-crystalline Si and polycrystalline sucrose.
Succeeding a strong long-standing leader: is there a right approach?
Authors: Kalman Danny
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this article is to cover a subject which the author believes is very topical and of interest to both those in leadership roles and those in the HR profession.

Design/methodology/approach

– The author shares his experiences on this topic and speaks to others who have found themselves in a situation of succeeding a strong well established leader.

Findings

– The author's findings clearly show that there is no right or wrong answer to this question. As mentioned in the article there are a number of options to consider and the new leader will have to assess their strategy based on the circumstances in which they find themselves.

Originality/value

– The article is on a topic which should be of great interest to both those in leadership roles and HR practionners. The theme of succession planning is one which all organisations are highly aware of and if done correctly can be of supreme importance to the on-going performance of any organisation.
Life Skills Group: increasing foundation knowledge and motivation in offenders with a learning disability
Authors: Patterson Christy , Thomas Cathy
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– Offenders with a learning disability present with greater clinical need than those without a learning disability. However, for this client group, access to and engagement with psychological and criminogenic interventions are often limited. The purpose of this paper is to discuss a potentially useful approach to this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

– A single case study design was used to evaluate an introductory group programme, delivered over 12 weekly sessions, in a forensic learning disability service. Semi-structured interviews were used alongside psychometric measures, which were completed prior to, and following completion of, the group, in order to assess the individual's experience of the group, their emotional understanding and difficulties, and readiness to change.

Findings

– Readiness to change and emotional understanding improved following completion of the programme. Self-reported emotional difficulties showed improvement, although not all staff reports corroborated this. Notably, the service user reported a positive experience, with increased confidence and motivation to attend further groups.

Research limitations/implications

– Generalisation from the results of single case studies is limited. Although results suggest that motivation to engage further has increased, more research is required to assess whether this impacts on actual ability to engage.

Practical implications

– Offering an introductory programme prior to further, more criminogenically focused intervention may be more effective than offering these interventions as the first stage of treatment.

Originality/value

– An introductory group programme may be potentially helpful in providing the foundation knowledge, confidence and motivation necessary to attend further intervention focusing on criminogenic need for offenders with a learning disability.
Moisture-curing polyurethane resins modified by multi-hydroxymethylated phenol
Authors: Zhang Xiaofeng , Wei Shuangying , Gao Zhenhua
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of multi-hydroxymethylated phenol (MHMP) on the properties of moisture-curing polyurethane (PU) resin, especially on the heat resistance.

Design/methodology/approach

– The MHMPs with various active sites from 2.52 to 3.91 were synthesised and used as a modifier. The bond test (according to the JIS K6806-2003 standard) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were used, respectively, to characterise the bond durability and heat resistance of MHMP-modified PU resin.

Findings

– The MHMP with various F/P mole ratios had great effects on the properties of resultant PU resins. The increase of active sites of MHMP can improve the water resistance of resin due to the more cross-linking densities, while the decrease of active sites of MHMP can improve heat resistance of resin because more stable benzene ring introduced into the PU backbone.

Research limitations/implications

– In cases where heat resistance of the PU resin is of primary concern, the use of MHMP with fewer active sites or a lower F/P ratio is recommended. In other cases where bond durability is focussed, the modifier MHMP shall be synthesised with higher F/P ratio.

Practical implications

– MHMP as a modifier can be used to improve the heat resistance of PU resin.

Originality/value

– The MHMPs with various hydroxymethyl groups were synthesised and used as modifier of moisture-curing PU resins to improve their heat resistance.
Effect of antecolic versus retrocolic reconstruction for gastro/duodenojejunostomy on delayed gastric emptying after pancreaticoduodenectomy: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Cao Shuang‐Shuang , Lin Qi‐Yuan , He Man‐Xi , Zhang Guang‐Quan
Published: February 2014

Aim

The aim of this meta‐analysis was to assess whether antecolic reconstruction is superior to retrocolic reconstruction for gastro/duodenojejunostomy with respect to delayed gastric emptying after pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Patients and Methods

A literature search of Medline (PubMed), EMBASE, OVID, EBSCO and the Cochrane database was done to identify randomized, controlled trials (RCT) comparing antecolic and retrocolic gastro/duodenojejunostomy after pancreaticoduodenectomy from January 1991 to April 2012. Four RCT involving 189 patients, and comparing antecolic reconstruction with retrocolic reconstruction, were identified for inclusion.

Results

The meta‐analysis revealed that there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of operation time [mean difference (MD): 4.39, 95 per cent confidence interval (CI): −19.51 to 28.28, P = 0.72], intraoperative blood loss (MD: 22.51, 95 per cent CI: −160.56 to 205.58, P = 0.81), blood replacement (MD: −0.19; 95 per cent CI: −0.62 to 0.23, P = 0.38), mortality [odds ratio (OR): 0.32, 95 per cent CI: 0.01–8.26, P = 0.49], morbidity (OR: 2.25, 95 per cent CI: 0.57–8.82, P = 0.24), delayed gastric emptying (OR: 0.31, 95 per cent CI: 0.08–1.26, P = 0.10) and length of postoperative hospital stay (MD: −2.35, 95 per cent CI: −7.56 to 2.86, P = 0.38).

Conclusion

Compared to retrocolic reconstruction, antecolic reconstruction for gastro/duodenojejunostomy does not seem to offer an advantage with respect to delayed gastric emptying after pancreaticoduodenectomy.
Application of narrow‐band imaging in upper urinary urothelial carcinoma: A preliminary report
Authors: Chan Eddie Shu‐Yin , Ng Chi‐Fai , Chan Chi‐Kwok , Hou See‐Ming , Yip Sidney Kam‐Hung
Published: February 2014

Aim

In the present study, the performance of narrow‐band imaging (NBI) ureteroscopy in the detection of upper urinary tract transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) was evaluated.

Patients and Methods

Ureteroscopies were carried out using both white‐light imaging (WLI) and NBI in patients with known upper urinary tract TCC before definitive treatment. Biopsies were performed when abnormal lesions were detected. The number of lesions found in WLI and NBI ureteroscopies, and histological findings, were compared with final pathological reports on nephroureterectomy or segmental resection specimens.

Results

Seven patients with eight upper urinary tract TCC were examined using WLI/NBI ureteroscopy between 2010 and 2011. Complete examinations failed in two patients, due to ureteric strictures. After ureteroscopy, five nephroureterectomies and two segmental resections were performed in this series. Endoscopic laser resection of the ureteric tumour was performed successfully under WLI/NBI in one patient. NBI ureteroscopy detected two more lesions than WLI, both of which were found to be benign in the final histological analysis. No other lesions in the nephroureterectomy specimens escaped detection during the ureteroscopic examination.

Conclusion

NBI ureteroscopy is technically feasible for upper urinary tract examination. It did not improve TCC detection rate compared with conventional WLI. Further studies might be necessary for the evaluation of its use and efficacy.
Management of anorectal malformations in the era of laparoscopy
Authors: Chung Patrick H.Y. , Wong Kenneth K.Y. , Tam Paul K.H.
Published: February 2014

Aim

Despite the advances of laparoscopic surgery in paediatric surgery, its role in anorectoplasty remains controversial. This review article aims at discussing current evidences regarding this new operative approach.

Methods

Literature review for laparoscopic anorectoplasty was performed in combination with experience from our centre. Details on operative techniques, surgical complications and postoperative outcomes were highlighted.

Results

Laparoscopic anorectoplasty (LAR) can be performed safely and effectively in early infantile period with modern small‐sized laparoscopic instruments. Postoperative complications have been reported to range from 0.8 to 7.2 per cent. Apart from general surgical complications, fistula and cyst formations at the posterior urethra are two specific complications. Functional outcomes are not inferior to traditional posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) with less surgical trauma and better cosmetic result especially in high‐type malformations. Similarly, outcomes of LAR are comparable with PSARP under manometric and radiological assessments.

Conclusions

Based on current evidences, LAR appears to be at least as good as PSARP. In high‐type malformations, we recommend that LAR be considered as the operation of choice. However, good laparoscopic skills and proper laparoscopic instruments are essential when performing this operation.