bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eribulin mesylate reduces tumor microenvironment abnormality by vascular remodeling in preclinical human breast cancer models
Authors: Funahashi Yasuhiro , Okamoto Kiyoshi , Adachi Yusuke , Semba Taro , Uesugi Mai , Ozawa Yoichi , Tohyama Osamu , Uehara Taisuke , Kimura Takayuki , Watanabe Hideki , Asano Makoto , Kawano Satoshi , Tizon Xavier , McCracken Paul J. , Matsui Junji , Aoshima Ken , Nomoto Kenichi , Oda Yoshiya
Published: July 2014

Eribulin mesylate is a synthetic macrocyclic ketone analog of the marine sponge natural product halichondrin B and an inhibitor of microtubule dynamics. Some tubulin‐binding drugs are known to have antivascular (antiangiogenesis or vascular‐disrupting) activities that can target abnormal tumor vessels. Using dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI analyses, here we show that eribulin induces remodeling of tumor vasculature through a novel antivascular activity in MX‐1 and MDA‐MB‐231 human breast cancer xenograft models. Vascular remodeling associated with improved perfusion was shown by Hoechst 33342 staining and by increased microvessel density together with decreased mean vascular areas and fewer branched vessels in tumor tissues, as determined by immunohistochemical staining for endothelial marker CD31. Quantitative RT‐PCR analysis of normal host cells in the stroma of xenograft tumors showed that eribulin altered the expression of mouse (host) genes in angiogenesis signaling pathways controlling endothelial cell–pericyte interactions, and in the epithelial–mesenchymal transition pathway in the context of the tumor microenvironment. Eribulin also decreased hypoxia‐associated protein expression of mouse (host) vascular endothelial growth factor by ELISA and human CA9 by immunohistochemical analysis. Prior treatment with eribulin enhanced the anti‐tumor activity of capecitabine in the MDA‐MB‐231 xenograft model. These findings suggest that eribulin‐induced remodeling of abnormal tumor vasculature leads to a more functional microenvironment that may reduce the aggressiveness of tumors due to elimination of inner tumor hypoxia. Because abnormal tumor microenvironments enhance both drug resistance and metastasis, the apparent ability of eribulin to reverse these aggressive characteristics may contribute to its clinical benefits.
Does Learning to Read Improve Intelligence? A Longitudinal Multivariate Analysis in Identical Twins From Age 7 to 16
Authors: Ritchie Stuart J. , Bates Timothy C. , Plomin Robert
Published: July 2014

Evidence from twin studies points to substantial environmental influences on intelligence, but the specifics of this influence are unclear. This study examined one developmental process that potentially causes intelligence differences: learning to read. In 1,890 twin pairs tested at 7, 9, 10, 12, and 16 years, a cross‐lagged monozygotic‐differences design was used to test for associations of earlier within‐pair reading ability differences with subsequent intelligence differences. The results showed several such associations, which were not explained by differences in reading exposure and were not restricted to verbal cognitive domains. The study highlights the potentially important influence of reading ability, driven by the nonshared environment, on intellectual development and raises theoretical questions about the mechanism of this influence.
Prevalence and risk factors for allergic rhinitis in two resource‐limited settings in Peru with disparate degrees of urbanization
Authors: Baumann L. M. , Romero K. M. , Robinson C. L. , Hansel N. N. , Gilman R. H. , Hamilton R. G. , Lima J. J. , Wise R. A. , Checkley W. ,   PURA Study Investigators
Published: July 2014

Background

Allergic rhinitis is a disease with a high global disease burden, but risk factors that contribute to this condition are not well understood.

Objective

To assess the prevalence and risk factors of allergic rhinitis in two Peruvian populations with disparate degrees of urbanization.

Methods

We conducted a population‐based, cross‐sectional study on 1441 children aged 13–15 years at enrollment (mean age 14.9 years, 51% boys) to investigate the prevalence of allergic disease. We used a standardized, Spanish validated questionnaire to determine the prevalence of allergic rhinitis and asked about sociodemographics and family history of allergies. Children also underwent spirometry, exhaled nitric oxide, allergy skin testing to 10 common household allergens and provided a blood sample for measurement of 25OH vitamin D and total serum IgE.

Results

Overall prevalence of allergic rhinitis was 18% (95% CI 16% to 20%). When stratified by site, the prevalence of allergic rhinitis was 23% Lima vs. 13% in Tumbes (P < 0.001); however, this difference was no longer significant after controlling for subject‐specific factors (P = 0.95). There was a strong association with other allergic diseases: 53% of children with asthma had allergic rhinitis vs. 15% in those without asthma (P < 0.001) and 42% of children with eczema vs. 17% of those without eczema (P < 0.001). Important risk factors for allergic rhinitis were parental rhinitis (adjusted OR = 3.0, 95% CI 1.9–4.7 for 1 parent and adjusted OR = 4.4, 95% CI 1.5–13.7 for 2 parents); allergic sensitization to common household aeroallergens (1.6, 1.1–2.3); being overweight (1.5, 1.0–2.3); exhaled nitric oxide ≥20 ppb (1.9, 1.3–2.7); and total serum IgE ≥ 95th percentile (2.4, 1.2–4.8). Population attributable risk of important factors for allergic rhinitis were 25% for high exhaled nitric oxide, 22% for allergic sensitization to common household aeroallergens, 22% for paternal rhinitis, 10% for being overweight and 7% for an elevated total serum IgE.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

Allergic rhinitis was prevalent in both settings, and important risk factors include elevated exhaled nitric oxide, allergic sensitization to common household aeroallergens, parental rhinitis, being overweight and high total serum IgE. When considering subject‐specific factors, the difference in prevalence between the urban and rural settings became non‐important.
Higher risk of orofacial clefts in children born to mothers with angina pectoris: A population‐based case‐control study
Authors: Czeizel Andrew E. , Vereczkey Attila , Bánhidy Ferenc
Published: July 2014

Previously an unexpected association of maternal angina pectoris (MAP) during pregnancy with a higher risk of orofacial clefts in their children was found. There were three objectives of this study: (i) to evaluate the validity ofMAP‐diagnoses in the previous study and the recent history of mothers withMAPin a follow‐up study; (ii) to estimate the prevalence of other congenital abnormalities in the offspring of mothers withMAP; and (iii) to analyze the possible effect of confounders for the risk of orofacial clefts. The large dataset of population‐based Hungarian Case‐Control Surveillance System of Congenital Abnormalities, 1980–1996 was evaluated including 22 843 cases with congenital abnormalities and 38 151 controls without any defect. Twenty‐two cases (0.10%) and 12 controls (0.03%) were born to mothers with medically recordedMAP(odds ratio [OR]with 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.7, 1.8–7.3). Of 22 cases, six had isolated cleft lip ± palate (ORwith 95%CI: 13.3, 4.9–35.9) and two were affected with isolated cleft palate (ORwith 95%CI: 10.5, 2.3–47.6). The diagnosis ofMAPwas confirmed in seven women visited at home in 2009–2010, two had recent myocardial infarction and five were smokers. There was no higher risk for other congenital abnormalities. In conclusion the higher risk of orofacial clefts was confirmed in the children of mothers withMAPand smoking may trigger the genetic predisposition of bothMAPand orofacial clefts. However, the number of cases was limited and therefore further studies are needed to confirm or reject this theoretically and practically important observation.
Prenatal imaging of a fetus with the rare combination of a right congenital diaphragmatic hernia and a giant omphalocele
Authors: Nonaka Ayasa , Hidaka Nobuhiro , Kido Saki , Fukushima Kotaro , Kato Kiyoko
Published: July 2014

A co‐existing right congenital diaphragmatic hernia and omphalocele is rare. We present images of a fetus diagnosed with this rare combination of anomalies. Early neonatal death occurred immediately after full‐term birth due to severe respiratory insufficiency. In this case, disturbance of chest wall development due to the omphalocele rather than the diaphragmatic hernia was considered as the main cause of lung hypoplasia. Our experience suggests that caution should be exercised for severe respiratory insufficiency in a neonate with an omphalocele and diaphragmatic hernia, even in the absence of an intra‐thoracic liver, one of the indicators of poor outcome for congenital diaphragmatic hernia.
Morphological features and length measurements of fetal lateral ventricles at 16–25 weeks of gestation by magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Taketani Kaori , Yamada Shigehito , Uwabe Chigako , Okada Tomohisa , Togashi Kaori , Takakuwa Tetsuya
Published: July 2014

Normal growth of the lateral ventricles (LVs) was characterized three‐dimensionally using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data from 16 human fetuses at 16–25 weeks of gestation. TheLVwas differentiated into four primary regions, the anterior horn, central parts, posterior horn, and inferior horn, at 16 weeks of gestation. TheLVchanged shape mainly by elongation and narrowing, which corresponded to the external and internal growth of the surrounding cerebrum. Six length parameters measured in theLVcorrelated with biparietal diameter by simple regression analysis (R2range, 0.56–0.93), which may be valuable for establishing a standardized prenatal protocol to assess fetal well‐being and development across intrauterine periods. No correlation was found between biparietal diameter andLVvolume (R2 = 0.13).
The Impacts of the Canadian Wheat Board Ruling on the North American Malt Barley Markets
Authors: Bekkerman Anton , Schweizer Heidi , Smith Vincent H.
Published: July 2014

The 2011 Marketing Freedom for Grain Farmers Act deregulated Canadian grain markets and removed the Canadian Wheat Board (CWB) as the sole buyer and seller of Canadian grain. We develop a rational expectations contract decision model that serves as the basis for an empirically informed simulation analysis of malt barley contracting opportunities between Canadian farmers and U.S. maltsters in the deregulated environment. Comparative statics and simulation results indicate that some new opportunities for contracting are possible, but the likelihood of favorable conditions for U.S. maltsters to contract with Canadian rather than U.S. farmers is low—between 9% and 35% over a range of possible selection rates. The effects on contracting of the termination of the Canadian grain transportation revenue cap policy and of the relaxation of criteria for the release of new spring wheat varieties are also investigated. While changes to grain transportation policies are not likely to significantly affect favorable conditions for contracting, reducing constraints on Canadian farmers’ access to higher yielding wheat varieties could increase the returns from growing spring wheat but decrease the likelihood of contracting for malt barley with U.S. maltsters by an average of 5.3 percentage points.
Biofilm formation on the surface of modern implant abutment materials
Authors: Hahnel Sebastian , Wieser Angela , Lang Reinhold , Rosentritt Martin
Published: July 2014

Objective

To investigate the formation of biofilms on the surface of materials applied for the fabrication of implant abutments.

Material and methods

Specimens were prepared from the implant abutment materials titanium, zirconia, and polyetheretherketone (PEEK); specimens made from polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) were used for reference. All specimens were polished to high gloss using silicon carbide paper; surface roughness was determined using profilometry, and surface free energy was calculated from contact angle measurements. After the simulation of salivary pellicle formation, multispecies biofilm formation was initiated by exposing the specimens to a suspension of Streptococcus gordonii, Streptococcus mutans, Actinomyces naeslundii, and Candida albicans for either 20 or 44 h. Viable microbial biomass adherent to the specimens (n = 10 per material and incubation time) and the percentage of dead microorganisms in the different biofilms (n = 5, accordingly) were determined.

Results

Significantly lower surface roughness was identified for PEEK and PMMA than for zirconia and titanium (P < 0.001); surface free energy was significantly lower for zirconia than for PEEK (P = 0.038). Significantly higher viable biomass and a significantly higher percentage of dead microorganisms were identified after 44 h than after 20 h of biofilm formation (P < 0.001, respectively); after 20 h, PEEK surfaces harbored significantly lower viable biomass than the surfaces of the other materials (P < 0.0125). After 44 h, significant differences were identified in the percentage of dead microorganisms organized in the biofilms on the different materials (P = 0.012).

Conclusions

Within the limitations of a laboratory study, the results suggest that biofilm formation on the surface of PEEK is equal or lower than on the surface of conventionally applied abutment materials such as zirconia and titanium. However, clinical studies are necessary to corroborate these preliminary results.
Analysis of Differences in Nonteaching Factors Influencing Student Evaluation of Teaching between Engineering and Business Classrooms
Authors: Narayanan Arunachalam , Sawaya William J. , Johnson Michael D.
Published: July 2014

In recent years, there have been increasing calls from the government and other organizations to provide easy public access to student evaluations of teaching. Indeed, the increasing ease of displaying and viewing large quantities of information, and competition among universities and majors for students, makes it likely that an era of greater transparency of this type of information is at hand. While students’ evaluation of teaching (SET) is one quantitative metric that rates the instructor, it may be influenced by factors that are often beyond the instructor's control. In this study, we analyze a longitudinal data set from both engineering and business schools of a large public university, and identify factors that influence SET. We show which factors have the highest influence on overall SET scores, and contrast these between engineering and business colleges. Colleges within the same university may have differences in the factors affecting SET, and recognition of this is important in effectively and fairly evaluating SET scores. We also provide recommendations regarding information that should be displayed along with the SET, particularly when SET scores are made public, so that instructors are not unduly penalized when their evaluations can be influenced by factors over which they have no control.
Cotton Island: Students’ Learning Motivation Using a Virtual World
Authors: Wyss Jamie , Lee Seung‐Eun , Domina Tanya , MacGillivray Maureen
Published: July 2014

As technology advances, it is important for teachers to seamlessly integrate technology into their innovative teaching techniques. Using virtual worlds is one alternative to traditional teaching methods that can provide rich learning experiences. The purpose of this article is twofold: (a) to present Cotton Island, an avatar‐based 3‐D virtual learning environment in Second Life and (b) to evaluate students’ learning motivation in using Cotton Island as a learning tool. Cotton Island was designed with unique navigational features to provide access to rich resources and educational activities that improve students’ knowledge of cotton. Based on the ARCS (attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction) model, this study assesses students’ learning motivation when using Cotton Island as a learning tool, and whether students had a positive learning outcome consistent with the instructors’ goal of knowledge improvement. The results show that students had a positive experience in terms of learning motivation and knowledge improvement.
A Demonstration of Regression False Positive Selection in Data Mining
Authors: Pinder Jonathan P.
Published: July 2014

Business analytics courses, such as marketing research, data mining, forecasting, and advanced financial modeling, have substantial predictive modeling components. The predictive modeling in these courses requires students to estimate and test many linear regressions. As a result, false positive variable selection (type I errors) is nearly certain to occur. This article describes an in‐class demonstration that shows the frequency and impact of false positives on data mining regression‐based predictive modeling. In this demonstration, 500 randomly generated independent (X) variables are individually regressed against a single, randomly generated (Y) variable, and the resulting 500p‐values are sorted and examined. This experiment is repeated and the distribution of the number of variables significant at the 5% level resulting from this simulation is presented and discussed. The demonstration provides a tangible example in which students see the reality and risks of incorrectly inferring statistical significance of independent regression variables. Students have expressed a deeper understanding and appreciation of the risks of type I errors through this demonstration. This demonstration is innovative because the scale of the simulation allows the students to experience the near certainty that the correlations shown in the results are truly random.
GENDER DIFFERENCES IN EXAMINATION BEHAVIOR
Authors: Nekby Lena , Skogman Thoursie Peter , Vahtrik Lars
Published: July 2014

A unique examination strategy in first‐year microeconomics courses is used to test for gender differences in examination behavior. Students have the possibility of attaining a seminar bonus on the final exam for near‐perfect seminar attendance and are given two voluntary initial quizzes during the semester. At the final exam, the scores received on initial quizzes can either be accepted as is, or students can attempt to improve their marks by answering similar quiz questions on the exam. Results suggest that female students are more likely to take initial quizzes and receive a seminar bonus but are less likely to re‐take quiz questions on the final exam. These results suggest higher risk aversion, less overconfidence, and more self‐discipline or less procrastination among female students relative to male students. Our estimated behavioral differences may have important implications in terms of final grades on the course. (JEL I21, J16, A12, A14)
Managing knowledge on communication and information flow in global software projects
Authors: Stapel Kai , Schneider Kurt
Published: July 2014

Communication is a key success factor of distributed software projects. Poor communication has been identified as a main obstacle to successful collaboration. Global projects are especially endangered by information gaps between collaborating sites. Different communication styles, technical equipment, and missing awareness of each other can cause severe problems. Knowledge about actual and desired channels, paths, and modes of communication is required for improving communication in a globally distributed project. However, many project participants know little about communication and information flow in their projects. In this contribution, we focus on knowledge about communication and information flow. It is acquired by modelling on‐going and desired flows of information, including documented and non‐documented channels of information flow. We analyzed a distributed software project from the information flow perspective. Based on the findings, we developed specific techniques to improve information flow in distributed software development according to the FLOW Method. In a second distributed project, we evaluated one of the techniques. We found the FLOW mapping technique to be suitable for effectively spreading knowledge about communication and information flow in global software projects.
Governance and Accountability of Public Risk
Authors: Andreeva Galina , Ansell Jake , Harrison Tina
Published: July 2014

Risk represents the unknown future: an intangible commodity. Public risk may affect any part of society and government is expected to respond, implying a need for governance and accountability. Public risk governance though is complicated by the multiplicity of different stakeholders and the network of interactions. We explore public risk governance through the actors involved in public risk governance and accountability. Through synthesis of the related and theoretically consistent concepts of governance, stakeholder theory and social network theory we develop the concept and underlying principles of ‘knowledgeable supervision’ as a means of public risk governance.
Accountability and Expertise in Public Sector Risk Management: A Case Study
Authors: Palermo Tommaso
Published: July 2014

This paper examines the adoption of a formal risk management framework in a large public sector organisation. The paper shows the relevance of risk management as an accountability tool, extended by means of disclosure to the scrutiny of distant others. The paper also reveals how the use of risk management is dependent on relational skills, knowledge of business activities and professional experience. Risk management can be seen as both a context‐dependent device and as a technique abstracted from a context. The paper discusses how risk officers deal with this complexity, addressing the expectations of multiple organisational actors and external entities.
Large reservoirs as ecological barriers to downstream movements of Neotropical migratory fish
Authors: Pelicice Fernando M , Pompeu Paulo S , Agostinho Angelo A
Published: July 2014

Most large rivers in South America are fragmented by large dams, and a common management strategy to mitigate impacts has been construction of fish passes. Recent studies, however, indicate that downstream passage of adults and young fish is nil or minimal. Better understanding of this phenomenon is needed if fishways are to provide any tangible conservation value in South America. We propose, in this article, that large reservoirs impose a different kind of barrier to migrating fish: impoundments create a diffuse gradient of hydraulic/limnological conditions that affects fish behaviour and functions as an extensive environmental filter that discourages downstream movements. To develop this idea, we characterize the barriers created by dams and reservoirs by describing their distinct nature, the effects on fish migration and potential solutions. We show, for example, that dams generally prevent upstream movements, whereas reservoirs impede mainly downstream movements. In this context, we explain how fish passes, in some instances, can partially mitigate fragmentation caused by dams, but there is no technical solution to solve the barrier effect of reservoirs. In addition, we present a body of empirical evidence that supports the theory that large reservoirs are important barriers to fish migration in South America, we offer an overview of the size of reservoirs to show that impoundments typically have large dimensions, and we discuss the significance of this theory for other regions. Based on current and proposed river regulation scenarios, we conclude that conservation of Neotropical migratory fish will be much more complicated than previously believed.
The effect of chlorhexidine dentifrice or gel versus chlorhexidine mouthwash on plaque, gingivitis, bleeding and tooth discoloration: a systematic review
Authors: Supranoto SC , Slot DE , Addy M , Van der Weijden GA
Published: July 2014

Objective

To systematically review and evaluate the available scientific evidence on the effectiveness of chlorhexidine dentifrice or gel (CHX DF/gel) compared to chlorhexidine mouthwash (CHX MW) on plaque, bleeding, gingival inflammation and tooth discoloration scores.

Material and methods

PubMed‐MEDLINE, Cochrane‐CENTRAL and EMBASE databases were searched to identify appropriate studies.

Results

Independent screening of the 2256 unique titles and abstracts resulted in five publications that met the eligibility criteria. Considerable heterogeneity was found between the studies. Three of the five studies showed a positive effect on plaque scores in favour of the CHX MW. With respect to gingival index and bleeding scores, no significant differences were found. Chlorhexidine mouthwash, however, showed a significantly more tooth discoloration than the CHX DF/gel. A meta‐analysis of the effect on ‘de novo’ plaque formation of CHX DF/gel versus CHX MW resulted in a difference in means of 0.27 [95% CI: 0.14; 0.39] (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Chlorhexidine gel can be successfully formulated and will inhibit plaque growth to some degree, but not to the same extent, as a CHX MW. When CHX DF/gel is used in a non‐brushing model, it is significantly less effective in plaque inhibition compared to CHX MW. Based on one study when CHX gel was applied with a finger after brushing, it is significantly more effective on plaque scores and the gingival index. The only brushing study also with a long follow‐up showed that there is no significant difference between CHX DF and CHX MW. However, as a corollary, significantly more tooth discoloration was observed with the CHX MW. Altogether, the data show that when daily oral hygiene cannot be performed, CHX MW is the first product of choice.
Sex‐dependent activity of de novo methyltransferase 3 (Tudnmt3) in the two‐spotted mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch
Authors: Yang S.‐X. , Guo C. , Xu M. , Sun J.‐T. , Hong X‐Y.
Published: July 2014

DNA methylation is an epigenetic mechanism for regulating developmental and other important processes in eukaryotes. Several components of the DNA methylation machinery have been identified, such as DNA methyltransferases. However, little is known about DNA methyltransferases in chelicerates, which is the second largest arthropod group. Epigenetics are expected to have a crucial role in the metabolism and development of this group. Here, we investigated the role of DNA methyltransferase 3 in the development of Tetranychus urticae Koch. In silico analyses clearly showed that this enzyme possesses the necessary conserved motifs for the catalytic activity of de novo methylation of DNA. Real‐time PCR revealed that T. urticae de novo methyltransferase 3 (Tudnmt3) is expressed ubiquitously and throughout the life cycle of the two‐spotted spider mite. However, the pattern of Tudnmt3 expression was sex‐dependent during the adult stage. Whole in situ hybridization provided supportive evidence that Tudnmt3 is linked to the differentiation of the gonads in adult females and males. Methylation‐sensitive amplification polymorphism analyses of 119 loci showed that the status of DNA methylation is partially different between adult females and males, raising the possibility that this sex‐dependent DNA methylation pattern is mediated by different methylation activity of Tudnmt3.
Wolbachia endosymbiont of Brugia malayi elicits a T helper type 17‐mediated pro‐inflammatory immune response through Wolbachia surface protein
Authors: Pathak Manisha , Verma Meenakshi , Srivastava Mrigank , Misra‐Bhattacharya Shailja
Published: July 2014

Wolbachia is an endosymbiotic bacterium of the filarial nematode Brugia malayi. The symbiotic relationship between Wolbachia and its filarial host is dependent on interactions between the proteins of both organisms. However, little is known about Wolbachia proteins that are involved in the inflammatory pathology of the host during lymphatic filariasis. In the present study, we cloned, expressed and purified Wolbachia surface protein (r‐wsp) from Wolbachia and administered it to mice, either alone or in combination with infective larvae of B. malayi (Bm‐L3) and monitored the developing immune response in infected animals. Our results show that spleens and mesenteric lymph nodes of mice immunized with either r‐wsp or infected with Bm‐L3 show increased percentages of CD4+ T helper type 17 (Th17) cells and Th1 cytokines like interferon‐γ and interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) along with decreased percentages of regulatory T cells, Th2 cytokines like IL‐4 and IL‐10 and transforming growth factor β (TGF‐β) levels in culture supernatants of splenocytes. These observations were stronger in mice immunized with r‐wsp alone. Interestingly, when mice were first immunized with r‐wsp and subsequently infected with Bm‐L3, percentages of CD4+ Th17 cells and Th1 cytokines increased even further while that of regulatory T cells, Th2 cytokines and TGF‐β levels decreased. These results for the first time show that r‐wsp acts synergistically with Bm‐L3 in promoting a pro‐inflammatory response by increasing Th17 cells and at the same time diminishes host immunological tolerance by decreasing regulatory T cells and TGF‐β secretion.
Critical Evaluation and Thermodynamic Modeling of the Mg–Mn–O (MgO–MnO–MnO2) System
Authors: Panda Sourav Kumar , Jung In‐Ho
Published: July 2014

All phase diagram and thermodynamic data of the MgO–MnO and MgO–MnO–MnO2 systems were critically evaluated and thermodynamically optimized to obtain one set of thermodynamic model parameters. The MgMn2O4–Mn3O4 spinel solutions were modeled with two sublattices Compound Energy Formalism by considering the cation distribution between tetrahedral and octahedral sites. The slag phase and monoxide solid solution were also described using the Modified Quasichemical Model and Bragg–Williams random mixing model, respectively. The optimized thermodynamic model parameters can be used with a Gibbs energy minimization routine to calculate the phase diagram and thermodynamic properties of the system at oxygen partial pressures between metal saturation and 1 atm.
Wavelength Tailorability of Broadband Near‐Infrared Luminescence in Cr4+‐Activated Transparent Glass‐Ceramics
Authors: Zhuang Yixi , Tanabe Setsuhisa , Qiu Jianrong
Published: July 2014

Four Cr4+‐activated transparent glass‐ceramics containing different species of silicate nano‐crystals (Zn2SiO4, Mg2SiO4, Li2ZnSiO4, and Li2MgSiO4) were successfully prepared. Absorption spectra, photoluminescence spectra, lifetime decay curves, and quantum yield of these transparent glass‐ceramics were measured. According to the crystal field strength of Cr4+‐incorporated tetrahedral sites, the broadband near‐infrared (NIR) luminescence of Cr4+ can be tailored from 1130 to 1350 nm and the lifetime of Cr4+ luminescence can be prolonged from 6 to 100 μs. Quantum yield in the transparent glass‐ceramics containing Li2ZnSiO4 nano‐crystals reached at 17%, which is the highest value of NIR luminescence in transition‐metal‐activated glass materials.
Theoretical Prediction and Experimental Validation of Enhancing the Piezoelectric Properties of (K, Na)NbO3 Modified by Li, Ta, and Sb According to the Linear Combination Rule
Authors: Huan Yu , Wang Xiaohui , Gao Renlong , Li Longtu
Published: July 2014

Lead‐free piezoelectric ceramics of (K, Na)NbO3 modified by Li, Ta, and Sb (KNN‐LTS) have been widely investigated recently. In this research, this optimized composition of KNN‐LTS ceramics near polymorphic phase transition is explored according to the linear combination rule (LCR) for the first time. Changing with the compositions monotonically, remanent polarization (Pr) decreased monotonically, whereas permittivity () increased similarly. The increase in either or Pr initially enhances piezoelectric coefficient d33 before reducing it because d33 can be improved by and Pr. The optimal composition of (Na0.52K0.4415Li0.0385)(Nb0.8735Ta0.064Sb0.0625)O3, predicted by LCR, exhibits the excellent electric properties of d33 = 359 pC/N, kp = 42%, thus suggesting that the LCR effectively predicts the electric properties of the KNN‐LTS ceramics.
Novel Synthesis Method and Characterization of Porous Calcium Hexa‐Aluminate Ceramics
Authors: Liu Xueyin , Yang Dexin , Huang Zhaohui , Yi Shuai , Ding Hao , Fang Minghao , Zhang Shaowei , Liu Yan‐gai
Published: July 2014

Porous calcium hexa‐aluminate (CA6) ceramics were in‐situ synthesized by heated CaCO3 and α‐Al2O3 in a NaCl‐based salt at 1400°C for 3 h, and then characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy, (SEM) and mercury porosimetry. The size and morphology of the CA6 crystals and pores were gradually changed with the increase of NaCl addition in the raw material, indicating that the molten salt not only provided a liquid environment for synthesis of CA6, but also generated considerable pores.
Fabrication of Chromium (III) Oxide (Cr2O3) Coating by Electrophoretic Deposition
Authors: Zhang Daixiong , Li Xueming , Qin Bo , Li Xiaolin , Guo Xiaogang , Lai Chuan
Published: July 2014

Chromium (III) oxide has been widely used as a coating material for corrosion resistance. In this study, electrophoretic deposition (EPD) of nano chromium (III) oxide (Cr2O3) particle (60 nm) was investigated to develop coatings with potential applications of anticorrosive material. The stable suspension of Nano‐Cr2O3 particles were obtained in the mixture of acetylacetone and ethanol containing 0.00025 M nitric acid. The coating growth rate was studied with using different deposition times in the range of 1–30 min at voltages of 50–150 V with various concentrations of suspension. The electrophoretic Cr2O3 coating was sintered at 1000°C and 1200°C for 2 h. The micro‐morphology of coating was qualitatively characterized by focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB/SEM). The SEM micrographs obviously showed that the electrophoretic Cr2O3 coating has formed a uniform and dense ultrathin layer after sintering at 1200°C. We demonstrated that nano‐Cr2O3 coating could be easily obtained by EPD for the surface modification of metallic materials for potential interest in hard wear‐resistant and/or low‐friction coatings.
Ca2+‐Doped LaCrO3: A Novel Energy‐Saving Material with High Infrared Emissivity
Authors: Han Zhao , Liu Jun , Li Xiao‐Wei , Chen Yi‐Xiang , Liu Guang‐Hua , Li Jiang‐Tao
Published: July 2014

The present study describes the successful synthesis of a Ca2+‐doped LaCrO3 ceramic with high infrared (IR) emissivity, which is important for high‐temperature applications for significant energy saving. It is demonstrated that 20 mol% Ca2+‐doped LaCrO3, i.e., La0.8Ca0.2CrO3, exhibited an IR emissivity as high as 0.95 in the spectral region of 3–5 μm, which was 33.8% higher than that of LaCrO3. By using La0.8Ca0.2CrO3 as IR radiation agent in surface coating of heating unit, the radiative heat transfer could be enhanced significantly. The mechanism of the high IR emissivity of La0.8Ca0.2CrO3 was attributed to the following aspects: Ca2+ doping introduced an impurity energy level of Cr4+ into LaCrO3 and increased the hole carrier concentration, enhancing both impurity absorption and hole carrier absorption in the IR region; moreover, the doping caused lattice distortion enhanced the lattice vibration absorption. This novel high IR emissivity ceramic shows a promising future in high‐temperature applications for the purpose of energy‐saving.
Song‐based species discrimination in a rapid Neotropical radiation of grassland seedeaters
Authors: Benites Pilar , Campagna Leonardo , Tubaro Pablo L.
Published: July 2014

Acoustic signals among newly diverged taxa have the potential to convey species identity, information that is key to reducing hybridization. Capuchino seedeaters constitute a remarkable example of recently radiated endemic species from the grasslands of South America. They are sexually dimorphic and show striking differences in male plumage coloration and song. Contrasting with this divergence in phenotype most species show extremely low neutral genetic differentiation and lack of reciprocal monophyly, which is interpreted to be a product of recent common ancestry and hybridization. Here we use field‐based playback experiments to test for the first time if males of two species, Sporophila hypoxantha and S. palustris, discriminate between conspecific and heterospecific song. Using various measures of behavior we find that both species react more strongly to their own songs. The response to playback from another southern capuchino cannot be differentiated from that of a control song from a more distantly related Sporophila species. Additionally, we did not find evidence for reinforcement as the response of S. hypoxantha did not differ between individuals that co‐occur with S. palustris and those that do not. Our finding suggests that song, a culturally inherited trait, may help maintain reproductive isolation between species in the rapid and explosive capuchino radiation.
Sleep and vigilance linked to melanism in wild barn owls
Authors: Scriba M. F. , Rattenborg N. C. , Dreiss A. N. , Vyssotski A. L. , Roulin A.
Published: July 2014

Understanding the function of variation in sleep requires studies in the natural ecological conditions in which sleep evolved. Sleep has an impact on individual performance and hence may integrate the costs and benefits of investing in processes that are sensitive to sleep, such as immunity or coping with stress. Because dark and pale melanic animals differentially regulate energy homeostasis, immunity and stress hormone levels, the amount and/or organization of sleep may covary with melanin‐based colour. We show here that wild, cross‐fostered nestling barn owls (Tyto alba) born from mothers displaying more black spots had shorter non‐REM (rapid eye movement) sleep bouts, a shorter latency until the occurrence of REM sleep after a bout of wakefulness and more wakefulness bouts. In male nestlings, the same sleep traits also correlated with their own level of spotting. Because heavily spotted male nestlings and the offspring of heavily spotted biological mothers switched sleep–wakefulness states more frequently, we propose the hypothesis that they could be also behaviourally more vigilant. Accordingly, nestlings from mothers displaying many black spots looked more often towards the nest entrance where their parents bring food and towards their sibling against whom they compete. Owlets from heavily spotted mothers might invest more in vigilance, thereby possibly increasing associated costs due to sleep fragmentation. We conclude that different strategies of the regulation of brain activity have evolved and are correlated with melanin‐based coloration.
Positive effect of the yellow morph on female reproductive success in the flower colour polymorphic Iris lutescens (Iridaceae), a deceptive species
Authors: Imbert E. , Wang H. , Conchou L. , Vincent H. , Talavera M. , Schatz B.
Published: July 2014

The deceptive Iris lutescens (Iridaceae) shows a heritable and striking flower colour polymorphism, with both yellow‐ and purple‐flowered individuals growing sympatrically. Deceptive species with flower colour polymorphism are mainly described in the family Orchidaceae and rarely found in other families. To explain the maintenance of flower colour polymorphism in I. lutescens, we investigated female reproductive success in natural populations of southern France, at both population and local scales (within populations). Female reproductive success was positively correlated with yellow morph frequency, at both the population scale and the local scale. Therefore, we failed to observe negative frequency‐dependent selection (NFDS), a mechanism commonly invoked to explain flower colour polymorphism in deceptive plant species. Flower size and local flower density could also affect female reproductive success in natural populations. Pollinator behaviour could explain the positive effect of the yellow morph, and our results suggest that flower colour polymorphism might not persist in I. lutescens, but alternative explanations not linked to pollinator behaviour are discussed. In particular, NFDS, although an appealingly simple explanation previously demonstrated in orchids, may not always contribute to maintaining flower colour polymorphism, even in deceptive species.
Vacuum Drying Optimization and Simulation as a Preservation Method of Antioxidants in Apple Pomace
Authors: Almeida‐Trasviña F. , Medina‐González S. , Ortega‐Rivas E. , Salmerón‐Ochoa I. , Pérez‐Vega S.
Published: July 2014

Vacuum drying optimum conditions and lowest energy consumption were investigated by surface response methodology and process simulation in Aspen Plus. Temperature, time and vacuum pressure effects on moisture, effective diffusivity, polyphenols and antioxidant capacity were evaluated. As a result, temperature was the most significant variable controlling the different responses. Optimum drying conditions were 68.33C, 46.33 kPa (abs) and 4.27 h. Dried apple pomace was obtained with 10% final moisture, 2.44 mg gallic acid equivalent/g as total polyphenolic content and 98.59 μmol Trolox equivalent/g as oxygen radical absorbance capacity. From simulation results, lower energy demand (1.2 kWh/kg of pomace) was obtained compared with other drying methods. Sensitivity analyses showed that apple pomace inlet temperature and apple pomace moisture content impacted energy requirements, whereas pressure and temperature adjustments inside the dryer did not. As a result, vacuum drying might be a feasible alternative to preserve antioxidants in apple pomace.

Practical Applications

Currently, there is an interest for developing economically feasible processes capable of recovering polyphenols from apple pomace in order to use such compounds in the food industry. Research has been performed regarding the optimization of polyphenols' solvent extraction. Preservation operations such as drying are critical before extraction. Vacuum drying is known as an efficient technique when processing temperature‐sensitive materials such as polyphenols. So far, there is no research available regarding vacuum drying effects in apple pomace polyphenols and antioxidant capacity. Because of this, this paper contributes to fill this gap, so the industry can implement this kind of process in the near future with the minimum negative effects in the polyphenolic and antioxidant capacity available; all this while having an efficient vacuum drying process.
Separation of Oleoresin from Ginger Rhizome Powder Using Green Processing Technologies
Authors: Said P.P. , Arya O.P. , Pradhan R.C. , Singh R.S. , Rai B.N.
Published: July 2014

Ginger oleoresin is an important condiment in food and pharmaceutical industries because of its antioxidant and polyphenolic compounds. The effects of various extraction methods on yield parameters were presented in this article. The ultrasound treatment showed its potential to increase oleoresin extraction rate. The ultrasound‐assisted supercritical carbon dioxide extraction was found to be the best method of extraction with the highest oleoresin yield of 8.15 ± 0.06% at 35°C temperature and 25 MPa pressure. The supercritical carbon dioxide extraction had 6.87% oleoresin yield at 25 MPa pressure, 40°C and 15 g/min CO2 flow rate. The signal‐to‐noise ratio showed that pressure and temperature had significant effect on the oleoresin yield, but their effect on flow rate was not significant. The ultrasound‐assisted solvent extraction was 1.75 times faster than simple soxhlet extraction.

Practical Applications

Supercritical carbon dioxide extraction is an environment‐friendly technology that separates pure compound from natural resource. Limitations of the solvent extraction method and steam distillation, such as residual organic solvent in product and degradation of thermally liable compounds, respectively, are major factors toward supercritical carbon dioxide extraction method gaining much attention in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical sectors. Ginger consists of specific oleoresin because of the presence of phenolic compounds. It has significant use in some foods and medicines as well. Hence, the optimization of the process to separate this oleoresin is an uphill task because of lack of literature. The orthogonal array design is a tool to reduce the number of experiments, and can become a useful tool in optimizing the experiment. This reduces the time of the experimentation, the cost on research, while obtaining better results. In this regard, the study was conducted to extract ginger oleoresin using supercritical carbon dioxide and orthogonal array design.
Girdin, an actin‐binding protein, is critical for migration, adhesion, and invasion of human glioblastoma cells
Authors: Gu Feng , Wang Li , He Jia , Liu Xiaoli , Zhang Huikun , Li Wenliang , Fu Li , Ma Yongjie
Published: July 2014

Girdin, an actin‐binding protein, possesses versatile functions in a multitude of cellular processes. Although several studies have shown that Girdin is involved in the cell DNA synthesis, actin cytoskeleton rearrangement, and cell motility, the molecular mechanisms of Girdin in tumor development and progression remain elusive. In this study, through over‐expression and siRNA experiments, we found that Girdin increased migration of LN229 human glioblastoma cells. On the other hand, reducing Girdin impaired F‐actin polymerization, which is essential for cell morphogenesis and motility. Matrix metalloproteinase 2, critical in human glioma migration and invasion, was down‐regulated upon Girdin reduction and led to decreased invasion in vitro and in vivo. In addition, silencing Girdin expression impaired the phosphorylation of two important adhesion molecules, integrin β1 and focal adhesion kinase, resulting in cell adhesion defects. Our immunohistochemical study on human gliomas tissue sections indicated that Girdin expression was positively related with glioma malignancy, supporting the in vitro and in vivo results from cell lines. Collectively, our findings suggest a critical role for Girdin in glioma infiltration.

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We show that reduction of Girdin, an actin‐binding protein, leads to impaired F‐actin polymerization and down‐regulated expression of matrix metallopeptidase protein 2 (MMP‐2), phosphorylated integrin β1, and phosphorylated focal adhesion kinase (FAK), which resulted in decreased migration, adhesion, and invasion of glioblastoma cells. Girdin was positively correlated with glioma malignancy and negatively associated with clinical prognosis, suggesting Girdin as a critical regulator in glioma infiltration.