bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maleinisation of monounsaturated fatty acids by Rh‐catalysis
Authors: Eschig Steven , Schirp Claudia , Salthammer Tunga
Published: March 2014

The Rhodium catalyzed maleinisation of monounsaturated fatty acids leads to cyclic 3,6‐disubstituted‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydro‐phthalic acid derivatives and acyclic maleinated byproducts, which are similar to the products formed by Ene‐reaction. Two different catalysts, RhCl3(H2O)3 and Rh(OAc)2, were investigated. It was found that Rh(OAc)2 shows a higher selectivity toward the cyclic products as well as higher conversions compared to RhCl3(H2O)3. Furthermore it was observed that the double bond configuration of the fatty acid influences the yields and the product composition of the maleinated products. The Rh(OAc)2‐catalysis leads mainly to the cyclic THPAs. If the cis‐configurated oleic acid is used, one cyclic main product is formed, whereas the trans‐configurated elaidic acid leads to three different isomers. Furthermore a decrease of the overall yield of the maleinated products was observed for elaidic acid, compared to oleic acid. In contrast to that, the RhCl3(H2O)3‐catalyst tends to result favorably in the formation of the acyclic products. If oleic acid is used, the formation of two different constitutional syn‐isomers was observed. In addition to that the maleinisation of elaidic acid gives also the anti‐form, so that four different products could be detected by NMR‐experiments.

Practical applications: Fatty acid based 3,6‐disubstituted‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydro‐phthalic acid (THPA) derivatives are promising monomers for polycondensation processes. The substructure of the six‐membered carbon ring is of great interest for the hardness of the resulting polyesters. The mentioned THPA derivatives are commonly synthesized via Diels‐Alder reaction of conjugated fatty acids and maleic anhydride. The main disadvantage of this synthesis route is caused by monounsaturation of many natural fatty acids, e.g., oleic acid, or by the non‐conjugation of the most natural fatty acids, e.g., linoleic acid which requires a further step for conjugation. The Rh‐catalyzed maleinisation enables the synthesis of such cyclic structures using monounsaturated fatty acids, e.g., oleic acid. The resulting THPAs are considered to be biobased substitutes with good prospects, e.g., for phthalic acid anhydride, trimellitic acid and their di‐, tetra‐, or hexahydro‐derivatives, which are commonly used in polycondensation processes. These fatty acid based THPAs may open the door towards new advanced biobased products, e.g., for lacquers and coatings.

The Rh‐catalyzed addition of maleic anhydride to oleic and elaidic acid was investigated. Two different catalysts were used. RhCl3(H2O)3 leads preferred to the acyclic products, whereas Rh(OAc)2 favors the formation of the cyclic products. The influence of the double bond configuration of the fatty acid component on the product composition is also discussed.
Elaboration of novel biosourced AA–BB polyamides with dangling chains from methyl ricinoleate
Authors: Rejaibi Majed , Bigot Sandra , Kébir Nasreddine , Burel Fabrice , Desilles Nicolas , Barrère Caroline , Hubert‐Roux Marie , Loutelier‐Bourhis Corinne , Lecamp Laurence
Published: March 2014

The existence of entirely biobased AA–BB polyamides is very limited because of the low availability of biosourced diamines. In this work, saturated and unsaturated diamines, with dangling hexyl chain, were successfully synthesized from methyl ricinoleate. These new monomers were reacted with several diacids to prepare novel partially to totally biobased AA–BB polyamides. Linear polyamide analogues were also prepared from commercial monomers. The physico‐chemical properties of the obtained polymers were assessed by DSC and TGA analysis. An auto‐plasticizing effect owing to the dangling chains was evidenced. The new branched monomers and polymers are expected to be used when modification of the properties of existing polyamides are required.

Practical applications: The new branched monomers and polymers are expected to be used as green and renewable plasticizers for modification of the properties of existing polyamides. Furthermore, the presence of the carbon–carbon double bonds in the main chains would be beneficial to perform polyamide chemical modifications at the molten state or to achieve cross‐linking reactions suitable for coating applications.

Elaboration of new branched renewable polyamides
Polymer monolithic capillary column fabricated by using monodisperse iron oxide nanocrystal template to enhance the electrochromatographic separation of small molecules
Authors: Lin Zian , Wang Juan , Yin Xiaofei , Tan Xiaoqing , Yu Ruifang , Zheng Jiangnan , Zhang Lan , Chen Guonan
Published: March 2014

Monodisperse iron oxide nanocrystals and organic solvents were utilized as coporogens in monolithic poly(glycidyl methacrylate‐co‐ethylene glycol dimethacrylate) capillary columns to afford stationary phases with enhanced electrochromatographic performance of small molecules. While the conventional monoliths using organic solvents only as a porogen exhibited poor resolution (Rs) <1.0 and low efficiency of 40 000–60 000 plates/m, addition of a small amount of nanocrystals to the polymerization mixture provided increased resolution (Rs > 3.0) and high efficiency ranged from 60 000 to 100 000 plates/m at the same linear velocity of 0.856 mm/s. It was considered that the mesopores introduced by the nanocrystals played an important role in the improvement of the monolith performance. This new strategy expanded the application range of the hydrophobic monoliths in the separation of polar alkaloids and narcotics. The successful applications demonstrated that the glycidyl methacrylate based monoliths prepared by using nanocrystal template are a good alternative for enhanced separation efficiency of small molecules.
Analysis of Residence Time Distributions of Different Solid Biomass Fuels by using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
Authors: Kruggel‐Emden Harald , Wirtz Siegmar
Published: March 2014

The residence time distributions of different typical solid biomass fuels such as wood pellets, wood chips, and wood cubes are measured on a scaled model of a forward‐acting grate in continuous operation by using radio frequency identification (RFID). A variation of motion patterns, grate operational conditions, and bed material is performed. Based on the residence time distributions, diffusion coefficients are derived, which are a measure for mixing on the grate and are of importance as input parameters of fuel–bed models in CFD simulations of grate‐firing systems. RFID measurements have the advantage to be capable of tracking multiple particles without requiring visual contact. Residence time distributions are obtained without any artifacts introduced by the feeding equipment or manual charging. It is found that the diffusion coefficients obtained are in agreement with the results of other measurements performed in literature. The diffusion coefficients increase with enhanced stroke length and stroke velocity as well as with decreasing bed layer thickness and particle sizes. Particle shape has a strong influence on longitudinal mixing and the diffusion coefficients.
An energy‐aware engineered control plane for wavelength‐routed networks
Authors: Ricciardi Sergio , Wang Jiayuan , Palmieri Francesco , Careglio Davide , Dittman Lars
Published: March 2014

Despite the significant degree of technological maturity reached by large‐scale optical transmission infrastructures, new critical issues are emerging as side effects associated to their energy consumption, environmental impact and related costs, now accounting for an important part of the networks’ operational expenditures. To face this problem, we propose a single‐stage routing and wavelength assignment scheme, based on several network engineering extensions to the Generalised Multi‐Protocol Label Switching (GMPLS) control plane protocols, mainly Open Shortest Path First, with new composed metrics and information transport facilities. It is structured according to a simple multi‐objective optimisation approach aiming at containing the network's energy consumption and ecological impact while balancing the overall load and maintaining an acceptable connection demand satisfaction rate. The proposed solution is able to operate effectively in wide area wavelength routing scenarios, where multiple heterogeneous equipment, ranging from pure photonic to opaque routing/switching, amplification and regeneration devices are deployed in a GMPLS‐empowered network. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A finite element formulation for global linear stability analysis of a nominally two‐dimensional base flow
Authors: Mittal Sanjay , GS Sidharth , Verma Abhishek
Published: March 2014

A stabilized finite element method, to carry out the linear stability analysis of a two‐dimensional base flow to three‐dimensional perturbations that are periodic along span, is presented. The resulting equations for the time evolution of the disturbance requires a solution to the generalized eigenvalue problem. The analysis is global in nature and is also applicable to non‐parallel flows. Equal‐order‐interpolation functions for velocity and pressure are utilized. Stabilization terms are added to the Galerkin formulation to admit the use of equal‐order‐interpolation functions and to eliminate node‐to‐node oscillations that might arise in advection‐dominated flows. The proposed formulation is tested on two flow problems. First, the mode transitions in the circular Couette flow are investigated. Two scenarios are considered. In the first one, the outer cylinder is at rest, while the inner one spins. Two linearly unstable modes are identified. The primary mode is real and represents the axisymmetric Taylor vortices. The second mode is complex and consists of spiral vortices. For the counter‐rotating cylinders, the primary transition is via the appearance of spiral vortices. Excellent agreement with results from earlier studies is observed. The formulation is also utilized to investigate the parallel and oblique modes of vortex shedding past a cylinder for the Re = 100 flow. It is found that the flow is associated with a large number of unstable oblique shedding modes. The parallel mode of vortex shedding is a special case of this family of modes and is associated with the largest growth rate. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Postnatal development of the hippocampus in the Rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta): A longitudinal magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Hunsaker Michael R. , Scott Julia A. , Bauman Melissa D. , Schumann Cynthia M. , Amaral David G.
Published: March 2014

Nonhuman primates are widely used models to investigate the neural substrates of human behavior, including the development of higher cognitive and affective function. Due to their neuroanatomical and behavioral homologies with humans, the rhesus macaque monkey (Macaca mulatta) provides an excellent animal model in which to characterize the maturation of brain structures from birth through adulthood and into senescence. To evaluate hippocampal development in rhesus macaques, structural magnetic resonance imaging scans were obtained longitudinally at 9 time points between 1 week and 260 weeks (5 years) of age on 24 rhesus macaque monkeys (12 males, 12 females). In our sample, the hippocampus reaches 50% of its adult volume by 13 weeks of age and reaches an adult volume by 52 weeks in both males and females. The hippocampus appears to be slightly larger at 3 years than at 5 years of age. Male rhesus macaques have larger hippocampi than females from 8 weeks onward by approximately 5%. Interestingly, there was increased variability in hemispheric asymmetry for hippocampus volumes at younger ages than at later ages. These data provide a comprehensive evaluation of the longitudinal development of male and female rhesus macaque hippocampus across development from 1 week to 5 years of age. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Elevation of endogenous anandamide impairs LTP, learning, and memory through CB1 receptor signaling in mice
Authors: Basavarajappa Balapal S. , Nagre Nagaraja N. , Xie Shan , Subbanna Shivakumar
Published: March 2014

In rodents, many exogenous and endogenous cannabinoids, such as anandamide (AEA) and 2‐arachidonyl glycerol (2‐AG), have been shown to play an important role in certain hippocampal memory processes. However, the mechanisms by which endogenous AEA regulate this processes are not well understood. Here the effects of AEA on long‐term potentiation (LTP), hippocampal‐dependent learning and memory tasks, pERK1/2, pCaMKIV, and pCREB signaling events in both cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R) wild‐type (WT) and knockout (KO) mice were assessed following administration of URB597, an inhibitor of the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). Acute administration of URB597 enhanced AEA levels without affecting the levels of 2‐AG or CB1R in the hippocampus and neocortex as compared to vehicle. In hippocampal slices, URB597 impaired LTP in CB1R WT but not in KO littermates. URB597 impaired object recognition, spontaneous alternation and spatial memory in the Y‐maze test in CB1R WT mice but not in KO mice. Furthermore, URB597 enhanced ERK phosphorylation in WT without affecting total ERK levels in WT or KO mice. URB597 impaired CaMKIV and CREB phosphorylation in WT but not in KO mice. CB1R KO mice have a lower pCaMKIV/CaMKIV ratio and higher pCREB/CREB ratio as compared to WT littermates. Our results indicate that pharmacologically elevated AEA impair LTP, learning and memory and inhibit CaMKIV and CREB phosphorylation, via the activation of CB1Rs. Collectively, these findings also suggest that pharmacological elevation of AEA beyond normal concentrations is also detrimental for the underlying physiological responses. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pleiotropic antitumor effects of the pan‐HDAC inhibitor ITF2357 against c‐Myc‐overexpressing human B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphomas
Authors: Zappasodi Roberta , Cavanè Alessandra , Iorio Marilena V. , Tortoreto Monica , Guarnotta Carla , Ruggiero Giusi , Piovan Claudia , Magni Michele , Zaffaroni Nadia , Tagliabue Elda , Croce Carlo M. , Zunino Franco , Gianni Alessandro M. , Di Nicola Massimo
Published: March 2014

Histone deacetylases (HDAC) extensively contribute to the c‐Myc oncogenic program, pointing to their inhibition as an effective strategy against c‐Myc‐overexpressing cancers. We, thus, studied the therapeutic activity of the new‐generation pan‐HDAC inhibitor ITF2357 (Givinostat®) against c‐Myc‐overexpressing human B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphomas (B‐NHLs). ITF2357 anti‐proliferative and pro‐apoptotic effects were analyzed in B‐NHL cell lines with c‐Myc translocations (Namalwa, Raji and DOHH‐2), stabilizing mutations (Raji) or post‐transcriptional alterations (SU‐DHL‐4) in relationship to c‐Myc modulation. ITF2357 significantly delayed the in vitro growth of all B‐NHL cell lines by inducing G1 cell‐cycle arrest, eventually followed by cell death. These events correlated with the extent of c‐Myc protein, but not mRNA, downregulation, indicating the involvement of post‐transcriptional mechanisms. Accordingly, c‐Myc‐targeting microRNAs let‐7a and miR‐26a were induced in all treated lymphomas and the cap‐dependent translation machinery components 4E‐BP1, eIF4E and eIF4G, as well as their upstream regulators, Akt and PIM kinases, were inhibited in function of the cell sensitivity to ITF2357, and, in turn, c‐Myc downregulation. In vivo, ITF2357 significantly hampered the growth of Namalwa and Raji xenografts in immunodeficient mice. Noteworthy, its combination with suboptimal cyclophosphamide, achieved complete remissions in most animals and equaled or even exceeded the activity of optimal cyclophosphamide. Collectively, our findings provide the rationale for testing the clinical advantages of adding ITF2357 to current therapies for the still very ominous c‐Myc‐overexpressing lymphomas. They equally provide the proof‐of‐concept for its clinical evaluation in rational combination with the promising inhibitors of B‐cell receptor and PI3K/Akt/mTOR axis currently in the process of development.
Value of general surgical risk models for predicting postoperative morbidity and mortality in pancreatic resections for pancreatobiliary carcinomas
Authors: Haga Yoshio , Wada Yasuo , Saitoh Toshihiro , Takeuchi Hitoshi , Ikejiri Koji , Ikenaga Masakazu
Published: March 2014

Background

The present study evaluated the utility of general surgical risk models to predict postoperative morbidity and mortality in the specialty field of pancreatic resections for pancreatobiliary carcinomas.

Methods

We investigated Estimation of Physiologic Ability and Surgical Stress (E‐PASS), its modified version (mE‐PASS), and Portsmouth Physiologic and Operative Severity Score for the enUmeration of Mortality and morbidity (P‐POSSUM) in 231 patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy or distal pancreatectomy (Group A). We also analyzed E‐PASS and mE‐PASS in another cohort of the same procedures (Group B, n = 313).

Results

Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) for detecting in‐hospital mortality in Group A were moderate at 0.75 for E‐PASS, 0.69 for mE‐PASS, and 0.69 for P‐POSSUM. The predicted mortality rates of the models significantly correlated with severity of postoperative complications (ρ = 0.17, P = 0.011 for E‐PASS; ρ = 0.15, and P = 0.027 for P‐POSSUM). The AUCs were also moderate in Group B at 0.68 for E‐PASS and 0.69 for mE‐PASS. The predicted mortality rates significantly correlated with severity of postoperative complications (ρ = 0.18, P = 0.0018 for E‐PASS; ρ = 0.17, and P = 0.0022 for mE‐PASS).

Conclusions

The present study suggests that the predictive powers of general risk models may be moderate in pancreatic resections. A novel model would be desirable for these procedures.
Magnetic current loop as a source model for finite thin‐wire antennas
Authors: Cavka Damir , Poljak Dragan
Published: March 2014

The paper deals with the concept of magnetic current loop as a source model for finite thin‐wire antennas. The formulation is based on the Pocklington integro‐differential equation with reduced kernel, which is handled by means of various numerical techniques, mostly using the Galerkin–Bubnov variant of Indirect Boundary Element Method. Extensive numerical experiments were carried out on various dipole and monopole antennas using different sources (delta gap, magnetic frill, and magnetic current loop), and results for input admittance are compared with measured data. The magnetic current loop source ensures accurate solution for input admittance. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Storage life at 2 °C or −1.5 °C of vacuum‐packaged boneless and bone‐in cuts from decontaminated beef carcasses
Authors: Youssef Mohamed K , Gill Colin O , Yang Xianqin
Published: March 2014

BACKGROUND

The microbiological condition of beef produced at North American plants has been improved as a result of the use of effective carcass‐decontaminating treatments. The effect of these treatments on the storage life of beef has not been established. In this study, beef primal cuts in vacuum packs stored at −1.5 or 2 °C for up to 160 days were assessed for their microbiological and organoleptic properties.

RESULTS

The odours of boneless cuts were acceptable after storage at either temperature for ≤160 days; and the flavours of steaks from boneless cuts stored at 2 or −1.5 °C for ≤70 or ≤120 days, respectively, were acceptable. The storage life of bone‐in cuts stored at 2 or −1.5 °C was, respectively, shorter or the same as that of boneless cuts stored at the same temperature. More than 20 microbial species that were mostly obligate aerobes were present on both types of cuts before storage. After storage for ≥30 days, the microflora was dominated by carnobacteria and Enterobacteriaceae were present in the flora from early storage times.

CONCLUSIONS

A storage life of 120–140 days was attained by vacuum‐packaged beef primals from decontaminated carcasses stored at −1.5 °C. The bone‐in cuts stored at 2 °C were spoiled at earlier times, probably by Enterobacteriaceae. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
The effects of RecO deficiency in Lactococcus lactisNZ9000 on resistance to multiple environmental stresses
Authors: Zhang Mengru , Chen Jian , Zhang Juan , Du Guocheng
Published: March 2014

BACKGROUND

Multiple stresses could cause damage to DNA and other macromolecules. RecO, belonging to the family of DNA repair proteins, plays an important part in homologous recombination and replication repair. In order to explore the role of RecO in overcoming multiple stresses, a mutant of recO deletion is constructed in Lactococcus lactis ssp. cremoris NZ9000.

RESULTS

Compared with the mutant strain, the original strain L. lactis NZ9000 shows better performance in growth under multiple stresses. The survival rates of the original strain under acid, osmotic and chill stresses are 13.49‐, 2.78‐ and 60.89‐fold higher. In our deeper research on fermentation capability under osmotic stress, lactate dehydrogenase activity after 8 h fermentation, maximum lactate acid production, lactate yield and maximum lactate productivity of L. lactis NZ9000 are 1.63‐, 1.28‐, 1.28‐ and 1.5‐fold higher, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Results indicate that RecO has positively improved the survival of L. lactis NZ9000, protected its key enzymes and enhanced its fermentation efficiencies. Our research confirms the role of RecO in enhancing tolerances to multiple stresses of L. lactis NZ9000, and puts forward the suggestion that RecO could be used in other industrial microorganisms as a new anti‐stress component to improve their resistance to various stresses. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Antioxidant and anti‐fatigue activities of egg white peptides prepared by pepsin digestion
Authors: Sun Shuguo , Niu Huihui , Yang Tao , Lin Qinlu , Luo Feijun , Ma Meihu
Published: March 2014

BACKGROUND

Some hydrolyzed peptides derived from food proteins possess antioxidant and anti‐fatigue activities. In this study, egg white protein powder (EWPP) was hydrolyzed with pepsin for various times, and four peptide fractions were separated from the hydrolysates by ultrafiltration. The antioxidant activity of the four peptide fractions was determined. The peptide fraction with the strongest antioxidant activity was used to evaluate its anti‐fatigue effect and probable mechanisms.

RESULTS

The egg white peptides (EWPs) fraction with molecular weight 2–5 kDa (named EWPs2) showed stronger antioxidant activity than the other peptide fractions (P < 0.05). The swimming time to exhaustion of mice administered EWPs2 was longer (P < 0.05) than that of the control group. EWPs2 increased the levels of blood glucose (by 28.4–42.2%), muscle glycogen (by 6.4–10.6%) and liver glycogen (by 10.7–23.8%) and significantly decreased the levels of lactic acid in muscle and urea nitrogen in blood (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Among the four peptide fractions, EWPs2 possessed the strongest antioxidant activity and exhibited an anti‐fatigue effect. The experimental data could clarify partially the anti‐fatigue mechanisms of EWPs and provide an important basis for developing EWPs as safe and natural antioxidants and anti‐fatigue agents for wide use. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Simultaneous determination of metoprolol and its metabolites, α‐hydroxymetoprolol and O‐desmethylmetoprolol, in human plasma by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry: Application to the pharmacokinetics of metoprolol associated with CYP2D6 genotypes
Authors: Bae Soo Hyeon , Lee Joeng Kee , Cho Doo‐Yeoun , Bae Soo Kyung
Published: March 2014

A rapid and simple LC with MS/MS method for the simultaneous determination of metoprolol and its two CYP2D6‐derived metabolites, α‐hydroxy‐ and O‐desmethylmetoprolol, in human plasma was established. Metoprolol (MET), its two metabolites, and the internal standard chlorpropamide were extracted from plasma (50 μL) using ethyl acetate. Chromatographic separation was performed on a Luna CN column with an isocratic mobile phase consisting of distilled water and methanol containing 0.1% formic acid (60:40, v/v) at a flow rate of 0.3 mL/min. The total run time was 3.0 min per sample. Mass spectrometric detection was conducted by ESI in positive ion selected‐reaction monitoring mode. The linear ranges of concentration for MET, α‐hydroxymetoprolol, and O‐desmethylmetoprolol were 2–1000, 2–500, and 2–500 ng/mL, respectively, with a lower limit of quantification of 2 ng/mL for all analytes. The coefficient of variation for the assay's precision was ≤ 13.2%, and the accuracy was 89.1–110%. All analytes were stable under various storage and handling conditions and no relevant cross‐talk and matrix effect were observed. Finally, this method was successfully applied to assess the influence of CYP2D6 genotypes on the pharmacokinetics of MET after oral administration of 100 mg to healthy Korean volunteers.
The outcome of free tissue transfers in patients with hematological diseases: 20‐year experiences in single microsurgical center
Authors: Lin Pao‐Yuan , Cabrera Rodrigo , Chew Khong‐Yik , Kuo Yur‐Ren
Published: March 2014

Background

Free tissue transfers performed in patients with hematological diseases represent significant challenges for micro‐surgeons. There are rare literatures that address the outcome in these patients. Therefore, we collected our database, analyzed the outcome, reliability, and related‐management of microsurgical technique in the patients with hematological diseases.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of 20 patients with hematological disorders who received free tissue transfers during 20‐years period in a single microsurgical center was done. Eleven patients who received head and neck reconstruction were found to have hyperfibrinogenemia. Seven patients with reactive thrombocytosis after trauma, and two patients with leukemia had soft tissue defects in the upper and lower extremities. Twenty‐six flaps were used for free tissue transfers. Intra‐operatively all patients received intravenous 5,000 Ud of heparin post immediate reperfusion. Anti‐coagulant medication such as Dextran‐40 or prostaglandin‐E1 (PGE1) was given postoperatively.

Results

Twenty‐three of the 26 free flaps survived without vascular compromise. Intra‐operatively all patients received intravenous 5,000 Ud of heparin post immediate reperfusion, and anti‐coagulant medication such as Dextran‐40 or prostaglandin‐E1 was given to the patients postoperatively. The three failed cases were found in patients with hyperfibrinogenemia and needed further reconstruction with another flap. The overall success rate was 88.5% (23/26).

Conclusions

Hematologic disorder is not a predicted factor of free flap failure. The key factors for success flap survival in patients with hematologic disorders include preoperative knowledge of the medical condition and monitoring potential post‐operative complications, aggressive hematologist consultations, and meticulous non‐traumatic surgical anastomosis. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 34:505–510, 2014.
Identification of Novel Histamine H4 Ligands by Virtual Screening on Molecular Dynamics Ensembles
Authors: Kiss Róbert , Jójárt Balázs , Schmidt Éva , Kiss Béla , Keserű György M.
Published: March 2014

We report the identification of novel histamine H4 receptor ligands by ensemble docking on homology model conformers derived from molecular dynamics simulations. Selected receptor models from the trajectories demonstrated superior virtual screening performance compared to the initial models. The ensemble of the best models was able to retrieve a diverse set of known H4 ligands. Prospective virtual screening against these models and subsequent in vitro experimental validation identified novel H4 ligands. Compound 3 showing highest affinity and ligand efficiency represents an interesting scaffold for further medicinal chemistry exploration.
Numerical simulation on the cracking and failure law of compacted clay lining in landfill closure cover system
Authors: Xue Qiang , Zhao Ying , Li Zhen‐ze , Liu Lei
Published: March 2014

According to the mass conservation equation of solid phase, water transport, air migration and enthalpy balance equations in a deformable and unsaturated porous medium, and the mechanics model, a thermal‐hydro‐mechanical (THM) coupling mathematical model is developed in order to accurately predict the crack propagation of the compacted clay lining (CCL) in a landfill closure cover system. Numerical simulation analysis of the cracking and failure of the CCL in a landfill closure cover system under complex conditions (landfill gas pressure, variation of soil surface temperature, moisture loss of coverage soil, and uneven settlement of landfilled MSW (municipal solid waste)) is performed. The results show that the cracks are discovered firstly on the soil surface and then extend to the deeper cover system and became bigger. The cracks had broken through the closure cover system at 30 days. Over the depth range of 0.06 m, the change rate of settlement is found to be the highest because of the strong influence of temperature. The rise of temperature around the cracks is fast when the CCL is broken through by the cracks. There is a hollow area near the cracks over the depth range from 0.15 to 0.7 m, and the temperature stabilize at around 11°C without any obvious reduction. Under the condition of evaporation, the main crack in the CCL is similar to a pumping well, which causes more rapid moisture content reduction around the cracks. Vertical deformation increases linearly with depth in the process of deformation and cracking of CCL induced by uneven settlement of landfilled MSW. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The influence of stents on microbial colonization of the airway in children after slide tracheoplasty: A 14‐year single‐center experience
Authors: Rijnberg Friso M. , Butler Colin R. , Speggiorin Simone , Fierens Anja , Wallis Colin , Nouraei Reza , McLaren Clare A. , Roebuck Derek J. , Hewitt Richard , Elliott Martin J.
Published: March 2014

Objectives

This study describes the microbial colonization profile of the airway in children after slide tracheoplasty (STP) with and without stents, and compares colonization to children undergoing cardiothoracic surgical procedures without airway related disease.

Methods

A 14‐year retrospective single case note review was performed on patients undergoing STP and stent insertion. Nose and throat (NT) and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) specimens were analyzed for microbial profile and expressed as cumulative mean microorganisms per patient (MMP).

Results

Forty‐three patients (median age ± SD 15.02 ± 31.76 months) underwent STP and 141 patients underwent cardiothoracic but no airway surgery (median age ± SD 31.7 ± 47.2 months). Sixteen patients required a stent after STP. One‐hundred seventy‐two positive microbial specimens were identified. The predominant 6 microorganisms were (1) Staphylococcus aureus; (2) Pseudomonas aeruginosa; (3) Haemophilus influenzae not type B; (4) Coliforms; (5) Streptococcus pneumoniae; and (6) Candida Albicans, and accounted for 128 (74%) of all positive specimens found. Children with stents had more MMP compared to children without stents after STP [4.06 ± 2.38 and 2.04 ± 2.24 MMP (P < 0.001), respectively]. Both groups of children after STP had more MMP compared to the control group (P < 0.001). Children with stents had more microbial colonization of their lower respiratory tract compared to their upper respiratory tract (3.36 ± 2.02 and 1.36 ± 0.93 MMP (P < 0.01) respectively). Staphylococcus aureus colonization of the lower respiratory tract was significantly higher in children with stents compared to children without stents after STP [0.5 and 0.15 MMP (P < 0.05) respectively].

Conclusions

This study indicates airway surgery and the subsequent use of stents to be a significant risk factor for microbial colonization of the airway in children. More specifically airway stents appear to increase colonization in the distal airway, which appears unrelated to that of the upper respiratory tract. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2015; 50:79–84. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2015; 50:???–???. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
GaN microwave varactors with insulated electrodes
Authors: Gaevski Mikhail , Deng Jianyu , Gaska Remis , Shur Michael , Simin Grigory
Published: March 2014

We report on GaN microwave varactors with capacitively coupled isolated electrodes. Metal‐insulator‐semiconductor (MIS) varactors have 4–5 orders of magni‐tude lower leakage currents than similar devices with Schottky contacts. Low leakage capacitively coupled contacts enable microwave switches and power limiters with low loss, high RF power and excellent temperature stability up to at least 200 °C. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Threading screw dislocations in GaN by the Heyd‐Scuseria‐Ernzerhof hybrid functional
Authors: Matsubara Masahiko , Pizzagalli Laurent , Bellotti Enrico
Published: March 2014

Threading screw dislocations in wurtzite GaN are studied using Heyd‐Scuseria‐Ernzerhof hybrid functional with in generalized Kohn‐Sham scheme. Several types of core structures, both stoichiometric and non‐stoichiometric, are constructed from the unconventional dislocation line position. We computed the formation energies and compared their stabilities systematically. For the open core type structure, the equilibrium diameter is ˜ 4.9 Å. With the intermediate value of Ga chemical potential, the Ga‐filled type dislocation core, where N atoms near the dislocation line are removed and only Ga atoms exist, becomes the most stable structure. This dislocation core does not introduce deep empty states into the band gap, but introduces deep filled states originated from the Ga–Ga wrong bonds of Ga atoms located along the dislocation core. This leads to the band gap narrowing and degrades the electronic properties such as breakdown voltage. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Strain relaxation and dislocation reduction in AlGaN step‐graded buffer for crack‐free GaN on Si (111)
Authors: Leung Benjamin , Han Jung , Sun Qian
Published: March 2014

GaN growth on Si (111) with reduced dislocation density and wafer bow requires the implementation of strain‐compensation techniques to counter the thermal expansion mismatch‐related tensile stresses. The ability to design the optimal buffer layer strategy for GaN growth on Si (111) relies on the knowledge of the relaxation processes that occur during the growth. In the AlGaN step‐graded buffer, the processes are complex, making it difficult to optimize the layer thicknesses, number of layers and compositions. Here, investigation of the relaxation processes as related to the microstructural evolution within the layers is performed. It is found that the use of x‐ray diffraction measurements of both line width broadening and relaxation reveal the characteristics of the dominant relaxation process of inclination of edge‐type dislocation. The methods and results presented here are expected to aid in the optimization for growth of improved quality and wafer bow‐free GaN on Si (111). (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Multifunctional Inverted Nanocone Arrays for Non‐Wetting, Self‐Cleaning Transparent Surface with High Mechanical Robustness
Authors: Kim Jeong‐Gil , Choi Hyungryul J. , Park Kyoo‐Chul , Cohen Robert E. , McKinley Gareth H. , Barbastathis George
Published: March 2014

A multifunctional surface that enables control of wetting, optical reflectivity and mechanical damage of nanostructured interfaces is presented. Our approach is based on imprinting a periodic array of nanosized cones into a UV‐curable polyurethane acrylate (PUA), resulting in a self‐reinforcing egg‐crate topography evenly distributed over large areas up to several cm2 in size. The resulting surfaces can be either superhydrophilic or superhydrophobic (through subsequent application of an appropriate chemical coating), they minimize optical reflection losses over a broad range of wavelengths and a wide range of angles of incidence, and they also have enhanced mechanical resilience due to greatly improved redistribution of the normal and shearing mechanical loads. The transmissivity and wetting characteristics of the nanoscale egg‐crate structure, as well as its resistance to mechanical deformation are analyzed theoretically. Experiments show that the optical performance together with self‐cleaning or anti‐fogging behavior of the inverted nanocone topography is comparable to earlier designs that have used periodic arrays of nanocones to control reflection and wetting. However the egg‐crate structures are far superior in terms of mechanical robustness, and the ability to replicate this topography through several generations is promising for large‐scale commercial applications where multifunctionality is important.
Evaluation of a Clinical Genetics Service – A Quality Initiative
Authors: Elliott Alison M. , Chodirker Bernard N. , Bocangel Patricia , Mhanni Aizeddin A.
Published: March 2014

Paper‐based surveys are an effective means of evaluating the quality of a clinical service. As part of ongoing quality improvement initiatives within our Genetics Program, new patients were invited to participate in a paper‐based survey. Issues related to the quality of counseling based on educational/informational aspects (e.g. whether testing was explained fully, testing options, the meaning of normal/abnormal testing), competency, respect and nondirectiveness of counseling in addition to clinical environment/setting were evaluated. Data related to demographics, discipline seen within the program and whether the patient was seen by a physician or genetic counselor were also captured. Five hundred questionnaires were distributed. One hundred and forty‐seven questionnaires were returned, with a response rate of 29.4 %. The majority of patients seen were prenatal (pregnant) patients and comprised a heterogeneous group including those seen for advanced maternal age and abnormal maternal serum screening. Overall, 98.6 % of respondents felt their appointment in genetics was a positive experience. Issues related to confidentiality, pros and cons of testing, meaning of an abnormal test result and time allotted for decision making were significantly different in some disciplines between genetic counselor and geneticist. However, when controlling for referral indication, these differences lost significance with the exception of issues relating to confidentiality and perceived time allotted to organize thoughts and questions. This survey provided valuable information to allow for improvement in the quality of the provision of service.
Undecanoic and 10‐Undecenoic Acid‐Based Amidobetaines and Amidoamine Oxides
Authors: Akula Shivaraju , Nayak Rati Ranjan , Kanjilal Sanjit
Published: March 2014

Three types of undecanoic and 10‐undecenoic acid‐based surfactants were synthesized in the present work: amphoteric amidobetaines, cationic amidobetaine chlorides and nonionic amidoamine oxides. Structural characterizations of synthesized compounds were based on nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) (1H and 13C) and mass spectrometry. Surface properties, such as critical micelle concentration (CMC), surface tension at cmc (γcmc), efficiency of surface adsorption (pC20), surface excess (Γmax) and minimum area per molecule (Amin) at the air–water interface, were determined by surface tension methods. Fluorescence probing techniques were also employed for the measurement of CMC, as well as steady state anisotropy (r) at the micellar core. The CMC of the studied surfactants follow the order: amidobetaine > amidobetaine chloride > amidoamine oxide. The influence of the terminal double bond in the hydrophobic alkyl chain on CMC was also assessed, and a significant increase in CMC was found due to the introduction of the double bond in the cases of amidobetaine chlorides and amidoamine oxides. These two types of surfactants showed higher rigidity at the micellar core compared to their corresponding unsaturated counterparts. However, such influence of unsaturation on the hydrophobic moiety was not observed in the case of amidobetaines. In all three types of surfactants, the saturated surfactant exhibited a lower γcmc and Amin, but higher Γmax, r and pC20 compared to its unsaturated counterpart.
A comprehensive approach to determining BER capacities and their change with aging in Drosophila melanogaster mitochondria by oligonucleotide microarray
Authors: Garreau-Balandier Isabelle , Lefebvre Mathilde , Jacquard Sophie , Caillat Sylvain , Cruz-Rodriguez Luis , Ishak Layal , Agier Virginie , Morel Frédéric , Lachaume Philippe , Dubessay Pascal , Sauvaigo Sylvie , Alziari Serge , Vernet Patrick
Published: March 2014

DNA repair mechanisms are key components for the maintenance of the essential mitochondrial genome. Among them, base excision repair (BER) processes, dedicated in part to oxidative DNA damage, are individually well known in mitochondria. However, no large view of these systems in differential physiological conditions is available yet. Combining the use of pure mitochondrial fractions and a multiplexed oligonucleotide cleavage assay on a microarray, we demonstrated that a large range of glycosylase activities were present in Drosophila mitochondria. Most of them were quantitatively different from their nuclear counterpart. Moreover, these activities were modified during aging.
Lipopolysaccharide impairs hepatocyte ureagenesis from ammonia: Involvement of mitochondrial aquaporin‐8
Authors: Soria Leandro R. , Marrone Julieta , Molinas Sara M. , Lehmann Guillermo L. , Calamita Giuseppe , Marinelli Raúl A.
Published: March 2014

We recently reported that hepatocyte mitochondrial aquaporin‐8 (mtAQP8) channels facilitate the uptake of ammonia and its metabolism into urea. Here we studied the effect of bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPS) on ammonia‐derived ureagenesis. In LPS‐treated rats, hepatic mtAQP8 protein expression and diffusional ammonia permeability (measured utilizing ammonia analogues) of liver inner mitochondrial membranes were downregulated. NMR studies using 15 N‐labeled ammonia indicated that basal and glucagon‐induced ureagenesis from ammonia were significantly reduced in hepatocytes from LPS‐treated rats. Our data suggest that hepatocyte mtAQP8‐mediated ammonia removal via ureagenesis is impaired by LPS, a mechanism potentially relevant to the molecular pathogenesis of defective hepatic ammonia detoxification in sepsis.
MicroRNA‐93 inhibits inflammatory cytokine production in LPS‐stimulated murine macrophages by targeting IRAK4
Authors: Xu Yan , Jin Huiyi , Yang Xiaolu , Wang Lili , Su Li , liu Kun , Gu Qing , Xu Xun
Published: March 2014

Endotoxin‐induced uveitis (EIU) is an animal model of acute ocular inflammation for the study of human endogenous anterior uveitis. The mechanisms accounting for the development of ocular inflammation remain hazy. MicroRNAs (mi‐RNAs) have been proposed as novel regulators of inflammation. It remains unclear whether a microRNA‐mediated regulatory mechanism is involved in LPS‐induced EIU. In this study, we report that miR‐93 expression in the eyes of EIU rats and LPS‐stimulated macrophages is significantly decreased. We also show that miR‐93 inhibits NF‐κB activation and pro‐inflammatory cytokines by targeting IRAK4 expression. We further demonstrate that miR‐93 inhibits IRAK4 expression by binding directly to the 3′‐UTR of IRAK4. Our findings suggest that miR‐93 is a negative regulator of the immune response in EIU.
That-variation in German and Spanish L2 English
Authors: WULFF STEFANIE , LESTER NICHOLAS , MARTINEZ-GARCIA MARIA T.
Published: March 2014

abstract

In certain English finite complement clauses, inclusion of the complementizerthatis optional. Previous research has identified various factors that influence when native speakers tend to produce or omit the complementizer, including syntactic weight, clause juncture constraints, and predicate frequency. The present study addresses the question to what extent German and Spanish learners of English as a second language (L2) produce and omit the complementizer under similar conditions. 3,622 instances of English adjectival, object, and subject complement constructions were retrieved from theInternational Corpus of Englishand the German and Spanish components of theInternational Corpus of Learner English. A logistic regression model suggests that L2 learners’ and natives’ production is largely governed by the same factors. However, in comparison with native speakers, L2 learners display a lower rate of complementizer omission. They are more impacted by processing-related factors such as complexity and clause juncture, and less sensitive to verb-construction cue validity.
BBC Orchestras round-up: new works by Simon Holt, Emily Howard, Tim Coult, Aaron Holloway-Nahum, Benjamin Oliver and Robin Holloway
Authors: Conway Paul
Published: March 2014

Contemporary works are often a feature of the BBC orchestras’ annual Proms concerts, attracting considerable media attention. However, each of these orchestras programmes a wide variety of new music throughout the year, most of which receives significantly less extensive coverage by the national press. Their Autumn 2013 schedules, for example, contained several first performances, some from composers on the threshold of a professional career, others from more established figures, all deserving to be widely reported.
TRANSIT New Music Festival, Leuven, Belgium, 25–27 October 2013
Authors: Reynolds Peter
Published: March 2014

TRANSIT is a festival packed into just a weekend. Despite this, it consistently punches above its weight in international standards of performance and a commitment to today's most adventurous music; this year's festival featured 18 premieres. It is one of the most attractive autumn European festivals, based in the Flemish town of Leuven, though the sheer number of events leaves little time for sightseeing.
The News: a video-opera by Jacob ter Veldhuis; Nederlands Blazers Ensemble, two singers and film UrWald: new music-theatre by Arnoud Noordegraaf; Niewe Amsterdams Peil Ensemble, actor and film Muziekgebow aan 't IJ, Amsterdam (October 2013)
Authors: Jeffery Sarah
Published: March 2014

The Amsterdam contemporary music scene has long been known for its open-mindedness and willingness to explore, and any given evening can be a toss-up between electronic clog dance (served with soup) or piano-playing dogs. A petri dish of creativity, this is given a podium and a voice by the Muziekgebouw aan 't IJ. This edifice of concrete and glass, moored like an industrial spaceship on the banks of the river IJ, is branded in English as the ‘Concert Hall of the twenty-first century’, and indeed their flavourful mix of programming celebrates the more unusual sides of classical music, from the very old to the very new, from Gesualdo consorts to dirty electronics.
Sitka spruce insects: past, present and future
Authors: Evans Hugh F.
Published: March 2014

Synopsis

The status of insects on Sitka spruce in Britain is examined in relation to the attributes of this tree as a widely planted exotic. Both time in Britain and particularly the area planted influence insect species diversity. The abundance and status of selected insects of pest importance are examined. Future trends receive attention, particularly in relation to potential importation of pest insects and this is examined for a number of species from Europe and North America.
Forcing, damping and detuning for single and coupled Van der Pol oscillators
Authors: Chillingworth D. R. J. , Afshar-nejad Z.
Published: March 2014

We use Melnikov function techniques together with geometric methods of bifurcation theory to study the interactions of forcing, damping and detuning on resonant periodic orbits for single and coupled forced Van der Pol oscillators. For a coupled pair the local bifurcation geometry is almost everywhere described in terms of the singularities of a line congruence in three dimensions.