bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crystallization of Zr55Cu30Al10Ni5 Bulk Metallic Glass in Laser Welding: Simulation and Experiment
Authors: Chen Biao , Shi Tielin , Li Mo , Wen Chi , Liao Guanglan
Published: July 2014

Using Kissinger analysis and temperature field simulation we analyze the crystallization of Zr55Cu30Al10Ni5 bulk metallic glass (BMG) during laser welding. We obtain the continuous heating transformation curve, the distribution of temperature field, and thermal cycle curves from which the thermal analysis is performed. We find that the material in the welding fusion zone is fully penetrated and the temperature in the base material zone is far below the crystallization temperature. Laser welding experiments are conducted to validate the Kissinger analysis and the simulation results. The welded joints are examined and the results are consistent with the simulation prediction. Therefore, the Kissinger analysis and temperature field simulation provide a convenient and reliable way to predict the crystallization of BMG during laser welding, which is beneficial to optimize the welding process and guide the laser welding of BMG.
A novel WDR45 mutation in a patient with static encephalopathy of childhood with neurodegeneration in adulthood (SENDA)
Authors: Ozawa Tadashi , Koide Reiji , Nakata Yasuhiro , Saitsu Hirotomo , Matsumoto Naomichi , Takahashi Kazushi , Nakano Imaharu , Orimo Satoshi
Published: July 2014

Static encephalopathy of childhood with neurodegeneration in adulthood (SENDA) is an X‐linked dominant neurodegenerative disorder, and is classified as a subtype of neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation. Recently, de novo heterozygous mutations in WDR45 at Xp11.23 have been reported in patients with SENDA. We report the clinical and neuroradiological findings of a patient with SENDA with a novel c.322del mutation in WDR45. In this patient, characteristic MRI findings were useful for diagnosis. © 2014 The Authors. American Journal of Medical Genetics published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Reduced cerebral gray matter and altered white matter in boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Doorenweerd Nathalie , Straathof Chiara S. , Dumas Eve M. , Spitali Pietro , Ginjaar Ieke B. , Wokke Beatrijs H. , Schrans Debby G. , van den Bergen Janneke C. , van Zwet Erik W. , Webb Andrew , van Buchem Mark A. , Verschuuren Jan J. , Hendriksen Jos G. , Niks Erik H. , Kan Hermien E.
Published: July 2014

Objective

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is characterized by progressive muscle weakness caused by DMD gene mutations leading to absence of the full‐length dystrophin protein in muscle. Multiple dystrophin isoforms are expressed in brain, but little is known about their function. DMD is associated with specific learning and behavioral disabilities that are more prominent in patients with mutations in the distal part of the DMD gene, predicted to affect expression of shorter protein isoforms. We used quantitative magnetic resonance (MR) imaging to study brain microstructure in DMD.

Methods

T1‐weighted and diffusion tensor images were obtained on a 3T MR scanner from 30 patients and 22 age‐matched controls (age = 8–18 years). All subjects underwent neuropsychological examination. Group comparisons on tissue volume and diffusion tensor imaging parameters were made between DMD patients and controls, and between 2 DMD subgroups that were classified according to predicted Dp140 isoform expression (DMD_Dp140+ and DMD_Dp140−).

Results

DMD patients had smaller total brain volume, smaller gray matter volume, lower white matter fractional anisotropy, and higher white matter mean and radial diffusivity than healthy controls. DMD patients also performed worse on neuropsychological examination. Subgroup analyses showed that DMD_Dp140− subjects contributed most to the gray matter volume differences and performed worse on information processing.

Interpretation

Both gray and white matter is affected in boys with DMD at a whole brain level. Differences between the DMD_Dp140− subgroup and controls indicate an important role for the Dp140 dystrophin isoform in cerebral development. Ann Neurol 2014;76:403–411
Moiré‐induced replica of graphene phonons on Ir(111)
Authors: Endlich Michael , Miranda Henrique P. C. , Molina‐Sánchez Alejandro , Wirtz Ludger , Kröger Jörg
Published: July 2014

The phonon dispersion of singly oriented graphene on Ir(111) has been determined by angle‐resolved inelastic electron scattering. Replica of graphene phonon bands are induced by the moiré superstructure. Calculations for a linear chain of C atoms attached to an infinitely heavy substrate reveal that imposing a superstructure by periodically varying the C–C interaction and the C–substrate coupling induces replicated phonons at wave vectors reflecting the supercell periodicity. Deviations between the phonon dispersion of graphene on Ir(111) and of pristine graphene are analyzed and rationalized in terms of the weak graphene–Ir(111) interaction.
Measuring triple‐helix synergy in the Russian innovation systems at regional, provincial, and national levels
Authors: Leydesdorff Loet , Perevodchikov Evgeniy , Uvarov Alexander
Published: July 2014

We measure synergy for the Russian national, provincial, and regional innovation systems as reduction of uncertainty using mutual information among the 3 distributions of firm sizes, technological knowledge bases of firms, and geographical locations. Half a million units of data at firm level in 2011 were obtained from the Orbis™ database of Bureau Van Dijk. The firm level data were aggregated at the levels of 8 Federal Districts, the regional level of 83 Federal Subjects, and the single level of the Russian Federation. Not surprisingly, the knowledge base of the economy is concentrated in the Moscow region (22.8%) and Saint Petersburg (4.0%). Except in Moscow itself, high‐tech manufacturing does not add synergy to any other unit at any of the various levels of geographical granularity; instead it disturbs regional coordination. Knowledge‐intensive services (KIS; including laboratories) contribute to the synergy in all Federal Districts (except the North‐Caucasian Federal District), but only in 30 of the 83 Federal Subjects. The synergy in KIS is concentrated in centers of administration. The knowledge‐intensive services (which are often state affiliated) provide backbone to an emerging knowledge‐based economy at the level of Federal Districts, but the economy is otherwise not knowledge based (except for the Moscow region).
Simultaneous determination of plasma creatinine, uric acid, kynurenine and tryptophan by high‐performance liquid chromatography: method validation and in application to the assessment of renal function
Authors: Zhao Jianxing
Published: July 2014

A high‐performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection method has been developed for the simultaneous determination of a set of reliable markers of renal function, including creatinine, uric acid, kynurenine and tryptophan in plasma. Separation was achieved by an Agilent HC‐C18 (2) analytical column. Gradient elution and programmed wavelength detection allowed the method to be used to analyze these compounds by just one injection. The total run time was 25 min with all peaks of interest being eluted within 13 min. Good linear responses were found with correlation coefficient >0.999 for all analytes within the concentration range of the relevant levels. The recovery was: creatinine, 101 ± 1%; uric acid, 94.9 ± 3.7%; kynurenine, 100 ± 2%; and tryptophan, 92.6 ± 2.9%. Coefficients of variation within‐run and between‐run of all analytes were ≤2.4%. The limit of detection of the method was: creatinine, 0.1 µmol/L; uric acid, 0.05 µmol/L; kynurenine, 0.02 µmol/L; and tryptophan, 1 µmol/L. The developed method could be employed as a useful tool for the detection of chronic kidney disease, even at an early stage. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
New prognostic factors and scoring system for patients with skeletal metastasis
Authors: Katagiri Hirohisa , Okada Rieko , Takagi Tatsuya , Takahashi Mitsuru , Murata Hideki , Harada Hideyuki , Nishimura Tetsuo , Asakura Hirofumi , Ogawa Hirofumi
Published: July 2014

The aim of this study was to update a previous scoring system for patients with skeletal metastases, that was proposed by Katagiri et al. in 2005, by introducing a new factor (laboratory data) and analyzing a new patient cohort. Between January 2005 and January 2008, we treated 808 patients with symptomatic skeletal metastases. They were prospectively registered regardless of their treatments, and the last follow‐up evaluation was performed in 2012. There were 441 male and 367 female patients with a median age of 64 years. Of these patients, 749 were treated nonsurgically while the remaining 59 underwent surgery for skeletal metastasis. A multivariate analysis was conducted using the Cox proportional hazards model. We identified six significant prognostic factors for survival, namely, the primary lesion, visceral or cerebral metastases, abnormal laboratory data, poor performance status, previous chemotherapy, and multiple skeletal metastases. The first three factors had a larger impact than the remaining three. The prognostic score was calculated by adding together all the scores for individual factors. With a prognostic score of ≥7, the survival rate was 27% at 6 months, and only 6% at 1 year. In contrast, patients with a prognostic score of ≤3 had a survival rate of 91% at 1 year, and 78% at 2 years. Comparing the revised system with the previous one, there was a significantly lower number of wrongly predicted patients using the revised system. This revised scoring system was able to predict the survival rates of patients with skeletal metastases more accurately than the previous system and may be useful for selecting an optimal treatment.
Biopsy of a complicated right atrial mass using CARTO 3‐dimensional electro‐anatomic mapping
Authors: Burrell Lance D. , Weiss Peter J. , Whisenant Brian K.
Published: July 2014

We report the successful biopsy of a right atrial fatty mass using CARTO 3‐dimensional electro‐anatomic mapping fused with cardiac MRI. Fluoroscopic guidance within the cardiac chambers lacks precision and therefore risks geographical miss of the intended target and cardiac perforation. CARTO mapping fused with cardiac MRI facilitated precise navigation of the bioptome thereby ensuring a successful biopsy of the intended tissue while minimizing the risks of inadvertent trauma to adjacent tissue. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Extending the Structural Diversity of α‐Flavonoid Glycosides with Engineered Glucansucrases
Authors: Malbert Yannick , Pizzut‐Serin Sandra , Massou Stéphane , Cambon Emmanuelle , Laguerre Sandrine , Monsan Pierre , Lefoulon François , Morel Sandrine , André Isabelle , Remaud‐Simeon Magali
Published: July 2014

Flavonoids constitute an important class of bioactive molecules, the physicochemical properties of which can be modulated by glucosylation. A structurally guided approach has been used to isolate glucansucrases modified in their acceptor‐binding site and specialized for luteolin glucosylation. Of a small‐size library, we isolate mutants showing up to an 8‐fold increase in flavonoid conversion rate over that observed with the parental enzyme. Di‐ and triglucosylated luteolin derivatives never described before have been obtained. They exhibit 282‐ and 17 708‐fold increases in water solubility, respectively, and are protected from oxidation by the glucosylation reaction. Molecular docking enables insight into the product specificity of the best mutants. These results demonstrate that α‐transglucosylase engineering is a powerful means to generate highly specific catalysts for flavonoid glucosylation and deliver new structural scaffolds with increased bioavailability and high relevance for therapeutic applications.
Divergent Pathways and Competitive Mechanisms of Metathesis Reactions between 3‐Arylprop‐2‐ynyl Esters and Aldehydes: An Experimental and Theoretical Study
Authors: Trujillo Cristina , Sánchez‐Sanz Goar , Karpavičienė Ieva , Jahn Ullrich , Čikotienė Inga , Rulíšek Lubomír
Published: July 2014

Mechanistic studies of the reaction between 3‐arylprop‐2‐ynyl esters and aldehydes catalyzed by BF3⋅Et2O were performed by isotopic labeling experiments and quantum chemical calculations. The reactions are shown to proceed by either a classical alkyne–carbonyl metathesis route or an unprecedented addition–rearrangement cascade. Depending on the structure of the starting materials and the reaction conditions, the products of these reactions can be Morita–Baylis–Hillman (MBH) adducts that are unavailable by traditional MBH reactions or E‐ and Z‐α,β‐unsaturated ketones. 18O‐Labeling studies suggested the existence of two different reaction pathways to the products. These pathways were further examined by quantum chemical calculations that employed the DFT(wB97XD)/6‐311+G(2d,p) method, together with the conductor‐like screening model for realistic solvation (COSMO‐RS). By using the wB97XD functional, the accuracy of the computed data is estimated to be 1–2 kcal mol−1, shown by the careful benchmarking of various DFT functionals against coupled cluster calculations at the CCSD(T)/aug‐cc‐pVTZ level of theory. Indeed, most of the experimental data were reproduced and explained by theory and it was convincingly shown that the branching point between the two distinct mechanisms is the formation of the first intermediate on the reaction pathway: either the four‐membered oxete or the six‐membered zwitterion. The deep mechanistic understanding of these reactions opens new synthetic avenues to chemically and biologically important α,β‐unsaturated ketones.
Aryl‐Copper(III)‐Acetylides as Key Intermediates in CCsp Model Couplings under Mild Conditions
Authors: Rovira Mireia , Font Marc , Acuña‐Parés Ferran , Parella Teodor , Luis Josep M. , Lloret‐Fillol Julio , Ribas Xavi
Published: July 2014

The mechanism of copper‐mediated Sonogashira couplings (so‐called Stephens–Castro and Miura couplings) is not well understood and lacks clear comprehension. In this work, the reactivity of a well‐defined aryl‐CuIII species (1) with p‐R‐phenylacetylenes (R=NO2, CF3, H) is reported and it is found that facile reductive elimination from a putative aryl‐CuIII‐acetylide species occurs at room temperature to afford the CarylCsp coupling species (IR), which in turn undergo an intramolecular reorganisation to afford final heterocyclic products containing 2H‐isoindole (P, P, PHa) or 1,2‐dihydroisoquinoline (PHb) substructures. Density Functional Theory (DFT) studies support the postulated reductive elimination pathway that leads to the formation of CCsp bonds and provide the clue to understand the divergent intramolecular reorganisation when p‐H‐phenylacetylene is used. Mechanistic insights and the very mild experimental conditions to effect CarylCsp coupling in these model systems provide important insights for developing milder copper‐catalysed CarylCsp coupling reactions with standard substrates in the future.
Selective Stabilization of Abasic Site‐Containing DNA by Insertion of Sterically Demanding Biaryl Ligands
Authors: Benner Katja , Bergen Anna , Ihmels Heiko , Pithan Phil Marvin
Published: July 2014

Biaryl derivatives that consist of one DNA‐intercalating unit and a sterically demanding component exhibit a specific behavior towards abasic site‐containing DNA (AP‐DNA) as determined by thermal DNA denaturation experiments, spectrometric titrations and CD spectroscopic analysis. Specifically, these ligands strongly stabilize AP‐DNA towards dissociation, whereas they do not or only marginally affect the melting temperature of regular duplex DNA.
ChemInform Abstract: Secondary Metabolites from the Genus Xylaria and Their Bioactivities
Authors: Song Fei , Wu Shao‐Hua , Zhai Ying‐Zhe , Xuan Qi‐Cun , Wang Tang
Published: July 2014

Review: 64 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Development of a Natural‐Product‐Derived Chemical Toolbox for Modulation of Protein Function
Authors: Rizzo Stefano , Waldmann Herbert
Published: July 2014

Review: 134 refs.
Prognostic factors and impact of adjuvant treatments on local and metastatic relapse of soft‐tissue sarcoma patients in the competing risks setting
Authors: Italiano Antoine , Le Cesne Axel , Mendiboure Jean , Blay Jean‐Yves , Piperno‐Neumann Sophie , Chevreau Christine , Delcambre Corinne , Penel Nicolas , Terrier Philippe , Ranchere‐Vince Dominique , Lae Marick , Le Guellec Sophie , Michels Jean‐Jacques , Robin Yves Marie , Bellera Carine , Bonvalot Sylvie
Published: July 2014

BACKGROUND

In the medical literature many analyses of outcomes of sarcoma patients were performed without regard to the problem of “competing risks.”

METHODS

We analyzed local relapse–free and metastasis‐free survival in a population of 3255 adult patients with a primary soft‐tissue sarcoma (STS) included in the French Sarcoma Group database. Cumulative incidence of local and metastatic relapse was estimated by accounting for death as a competing event.

RESULTS

On multivariate analysis, age, tumor site, histological subtype, and grade were independent adverse prognostic factors for local relapse, whereas tumor depth and size had no influence. Histological subtype, tumor depth, tumor size, and grade were independent adverse prognostic factors for metastatic relapse. Despite a higher incidence of competing deaths in patients managed with adjuvant radiotherapy than in patients not receiving radiotherapy, adjuvant radiotherapy was associated with a significant benefit in terms of local relapse–free survival. Despite a similar cumulative incidence of competing deaths in patients with grade 2 and grade 3 disease, we found that the benefit of adjuvant chemotherapy was present only in patients with grade 3 and not in patients with grade 2 disease.

CONCLUSIONS

In the setting of competing risks, tumor biology reflected by histological grade is a crucial predictor of local relapse, whereas tumor depth and size have poor if any influence. Grade could also predict the benefit of adjuvant chemotherapy in patients with STS. Cancer 2014;120:3361–3369. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Mechanical Properties and Failure Mechanisms of Graphene under a Central Load
Authors: Wang Shuaiwei , Yang Baocheng , Zhang Shouren , Yuan Jinyun , Si Yubing , Chen Houyang
Published: July 2014

By employing molecular dynamics simulations, the evolution of deformation of a monolayer graphene sheet under a central transverse loading are investigated. Dependence of mechanical responses on the symmetry (shape) of the loading domain, on the size of the graphene sheet, and on temperature, is determined. It is found that the symmetry of the loading domain plays a central role in fracture strength and strain. By increasing the size of the graphene sheet or increasing temperature, the tensile strength and fracture strain decrease. The results have demonstrated that the breaking force and breaking displacement are sensitive to both temperature and the symmetry of the loading domain. In addition, we find that the intrinsic strength of graphene under a central load is much smaller than that of graphene under a uniaxial load. By examining the deformation processes, two failure mechanisms are identified namely, brittle bond breaking and plastic relaxation. In the second mechanism, the Stone–Wales transformation occurs.
Tin Nanoparticles in Carbon/Silica Hybrid Materials by the Use of Twin Polymerization
Authors: Leonhardt Christian , Brumm Susann , Seifert Andreas , Lange Arno , Csihony Szilard , Mehring Michael
Published: July 2014

Simultaneous twin polymerization was used to synthesize hybrid materials composed of tin oxide, silica, and a phenolic resin starting from a mixture of 2,2′‐spirobi[4H‐1,3,2‐benzodioxasiline] (Si‐spiro) with either the tin(IV) alkoxides 2,2′‐spirobi[4H‐1,3,2‐benzodioxastannine] (A), 2,2′‐spirobi[6‐methyl‐4H‐1,3,2‐benzodioxastannine] (B), and 2,2′‐spirobi[6‐methoxy‐4H‐1,3,2‐benzodioxastannine] (C) or the novel tin(II) alkoxides tin(II)‐2‐(oxidomethyl)‐4‐methoxyphenolate (D) and tin(II)‐2‐(oxidomethyl)‐5‐methoxyphenolate (E). In addition, the twin polymerization of the twin monomer Si‐spiro in the presence of tin‐containing additives, such as Sn(OtBu)4, Sn(OnBu)2, Sn(OAc)4, and Sn(OAc)2, was investigated for comparison. The as‐prepared hybrid materials were characterized using solid‐state NMR spectroscopy (13C, 29Si, 119Sn) and high‐angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy, and were finally converted under Ar/H2 atmosphere at 600 °C to tin nanoparticles (10–200 nm) in porous carbon/silica hybrid materials (Sn/C/SiO2) with BET surface areas up to 352 m2 g−1.
The Effects of Calcium Supplementation on Verified Coronary Heart Disease Hospitalization and Death in Postmenopausal Women: A Collaborative Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Lewis Joshua R , Radavelli-Bagatini Simone , Rejnmark Lars , Chen Jian Sheng , Simpson Judy M , Lappe Joan M , Mosekilde Leif , Prentice Ross L , Prince Richard L
Published: July 2014

Calcium supplementation, particularly with vitamin D, has been an approved public health intervention to reduce fracture risk. Enthusiasm for this intervention has been mitigated by meta-analyses suggesting that calcium supplementation with or without vitamin D increases myocardial infarction (MI) risk; however, concern has been raised over the design of these meta-analyses. We, therefore, undertook a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials with placebo or no-treatment control groups to determine if these supplements increase all-cause mortality and coronary heart disease (CHD) risk including MI, angina pectoris and acute coronary syndrome, and chronic CHD verified by clinical review, hospital record, or death certificate in elderly women. The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, and EMBASE databases were searched from January 1, 1966, to May 24, 2013, for potentially eligible studies, reference lists were checked, and trial investigators were contacted where additional unpublished data were required. The search yielded 661 potentially eligible reports of which 18 met the inclusion criteria and contributed information on 63,563 participants with 3390 CHD events and 4157 deaths. Two authors extracted the data independently with trial data combined using random-effects meta-analysis to calculate the relative risk (RR). Five trials contributed CHD events with pooled relative RR of 1.02 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.96–1.09; p = 0.51). Seventeen trials contributed all-cause mortality data with pooled RR of 0.96 (95% CI, 0.91–1.02; p = 0.18). Heterogeneity among the trials was low for both primary outcomes (I2 = 0%). For secondary outcomes, the RR for MI was 1.08 (95% CI, 0.92–1.26; p = 0.32), angina pectoris and acute coronary syndrome 1.09 (95% CI, 0.95–1.24; p = 0.22) and chronic CHD 0.92 (95% CI, 0.73–1.15; p = 0.46). In conclusion, current evidence does not support the hypothesis that calcium supplementation with or without vitamin D increases coronary heart disease or all-cause mortality risk in elderly women. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Childhood Cortical Porosity Is Related to Microstructural Properties of the Bone-Muscle Junction
Authors: Schnitzler Christine M
Published: July 2014

Childhood cortical porosity is attributable to giant asymmetrical drifting osteonal canals that arise predominantly along the primary-secondary bone interface (PSBI). Bone from the external iliac crest cortex of 92 subjects aged 0 to 25 years was examined histomorphometrically for differences in microstructural properties between primary and secondary bone that might account for features of drifting osteonal canals. Primary compared with secondary bone showed greater numbers of osteocyte lacunae, thinner collagen lamellae, and a scaffold of elastic perforating fibers (PFs). The greater number of osteocyte lacunae compounded by known perilacunar strain amplification and the presence of elastic PFs are expected to be associated with greater bone tissue strain in primary than in secondary bone and thus with strain gradients at the PSBI. Strain gradients may lead local osteocytes to originate resorption canals and to promote transverse drift of the resorption front into lower-strain secondary bone, thus creating giant asymmetrical drifting osteonal canals that remodel primary to secondary bone. PFs extended from muscle fibers through periosteum and primary bone to the PSBI, where they were resorbed by origination of drifting canals. Growth modeling by periosteal osteoblasts proceeds in the gaps between PFs. Through the direct connection between muscle and the PSBI via PFs, muscle forces may influence not only modeling by raising strain but also remodeling of primary to secondary bone by increasing strain gradients at the PSBI. With reduction in primary bone width after the mid-teens, numbers of drifting canals and porosity declined. Differences in microstructural properties between primary and secondary bone are expected to generate strain gradients at the PSBI that contribute to site, transverse drift, asymmetry and large size of drifting canals, and, hence, to cortical porosity. Cortical porosity in children is a physiological feature of bone growth in width. Advisability of therapeutic intervention remains to be defined. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Ellagic Acid Antiinflammatory and Antiapoptotic Potential Mediate Renoprotection in Cisplatin Nephrotoxic Rats
Authors: El‐Garhy Amany M. , Abd El‐Raouf Ola M. , El‐Sayeh Bahia M. , Fawzy Hala M. , Abdallah Dalaal M.
Published: July 2014

Ellagic acid (EA) renoprotective effect against cisplatin (CIS)‐induced nephrotoxicity remains elusive. Therefore, male Sprague–Dawley rats received CIS alone or EA (10 and 30 mg/kg, p.o.) for 5 days before and after CIS injection. CIS increased serum levels of blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, γ‐glutamyl transferase, and reduced those of albumin and total protein. It also raised serum endothelin‐1, as well as serum and renal nitric oxide, tumor necrosis factor‐α, and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1. CIS enhanced the renal caspase‐3, hemeoxygenase (HO)‐1, nuclear factor‐κB, and inducible nitric oxide. EA hampered CIS‐induced nephrotoxicity manifested by an enhancement of the glomerular filtration rate which was associated by the reduction of inflammatory mediators and the apoptotic marker in the serum and/or kidney. The present study discloses that EA suppresses HO‐1 and, its renoprotection is also linked to its anti‐inflammatory and antiapoptotic properties, as well as the reduction of nitric oxide and endothelin‐1.
Monitoring fermentation processes using in‐process measurements of different orders
Authors: Svendsen Carina , Skov Thomas , van den Berg Frans W. J.
Published: July 2014

BACKGROUND

In‐process monitoring of fermentation processes (at‐line, on‐line or in‐line measurements) is essential to control productivity and ensure high product quality. A number of different monitoring techniques are available for this purpose and one possible categorization among this variety of techniques is based on the different structures generated by the measurements and the potential of these with respect to holding and extracting process information. In this study lactic fermentation processes is monitored by different techniques (brix, pH, NIR‐ and fluorescence‐spectroscopy) providing different data structures (zero‐, first‐ and second‐order). Multivariate data analysis (PCA and PARAFAC) was applied on the first‐ and second‐order data sets, and the different measurement signals or derivatives of these were combined by a multiblock strategy. The aim of this work is to present and clarify the advantages and variations of the different data structures.

RESULTS

The zero‐order pH and brix measurements (a commonly used measure for total sugar content in wine fermentations) decreased in a smooth and logical pattern from 6.4 to 4.4 and from 10.5% to 6.2%, respectively – provided valuable critical quality attributes, communicating the fermentation process is progressing over time in accordance with biological and engineering intuition. The first‐order NIR measurements modelled with PCA showed an increasing trend over time on PC1. This increasing trend corresponds to the lactic bacterial growth. This trend could be distinguished by statistical modelling from a second trend (PC2), reproducible for all production batches. Based on the second‐order fluorescence measurements modelled by PARAFAC and its statistical uniqueness properties, three distinctive fluorescence compounds were found to vary over process time. Most probably these three compounds represent riboflavin, tryptophan and lumichrome or NADH. Using multiblock PCA the combined sensor signals identified two distinguished, reproducible time profiles for all batch runs.

CONCLUSIONS

The most interpretable chemical information was obtained by fluorescence spectroscopy due to the uniqueness properties of second‐order measurements. The first‐order technique NIR spectroscopy also provided valuable process information, though the process trends can only be interpreted indirectly and if interfering species had been encountered they could not have been modelled. The multiblock data set provided by zero‐, first‐ and second‐order measurements recorded over time highlighted important relationships among the different variables that provide chemical information when multivariate data analysis is applied. Although, first‐ and second‐order measurements seem to obtain more information than the zero‐order measurements, it is important to keep in mind that zero‐order measurements can provide valuable information about the process, especially in combination with different sensors. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Prenatal diagnosis of left coronary artery to right ventricle fistula
Authors: Oztunc Funda , Gokalp Selman , Yuksel Mehmet Aytac , Imamoglu Metehan , Madazli Riza
Published: July 2014

Prenatal diagnosis of a congenital coronary artery fistula between the left coronary artery and the right ventricle was established at 28 weeks of gestation. Hydrops fetalis developed during follow‐up and the baby died on the first day after delivery. It is rare for coronary artery fistulas to become symptomatic during fetal life. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 43:129–131, 2015
Decomposing Graphs of High Minimum Degree into 4‐Cycles
Authors: Bryant Darryn , Cavenagh Nicholas J.
Published: July 2014

If a graph G decomposes into edge‐disjoint 4‐cycles, then each vertex of G has even degree and 4 divides the number of edges in G. It is shown that these obvious necessary conditions are also sufficient when G is any simple graph having minimum degree at least , where n is the number of vertices in G. This improves the bound given by Gustavsson (PhD Thesis, University of Stockholm, 1991), who showed (as part of a more general result) sufficiency for simple graphs with minimum degree at least . On the other hand, it is known that for arbitrarily large values of n there exist simple graphs satisfying the obvious necessary conditions, having n vertices and minimum degree , but having no decomposition into edge‐disjoint 4‐cycles. We also show that if G is a bipartite simple graph with n vertices in each part, then the obvious necessary conditions for G to decompose into 4‐cycles are sufficient when G has minimum degree at least .
Lipopolysaccharide preconditioning facilitates M2 activation of resident microglia after spinal cord injury
Authors: Hayakawa Kentaro , Okazaki Rentaro , Morioka Kazuhito , Nakamura Kozo , Tanaka Sakae , Ogata Toru
Published: July 2014

The inflammatory response following spinal cord injury (SCI) has both harmful and beneficial effects; however, it can be modulated for therapeutic benefit. Endotoxin/lipopolysaccharide (LPS) preconditioning, a well‐established method for modifying the immune reaction, has been shown to attenuate damage induced by stroke and brain trauma in rodent models. Although such effects likely are conveyed by tissue‐repairing functions of the inflammatory response, the mechanisms that control the effects have not yet been elucidated. The present study preconditioned C57BL6/J mice with 0.05 mg/kg of LPS 48 hr before inducing contusion SCI to investigate the effect of LPS preconditioning on the activation of macrophages/microglia. We found that LPS preconditioning promotes the polarization of M1/M2 macrophages/microglia toward an M2 phenotype in the injured spinal cord on quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and immunohistochemical analyses. Flow cytometric analyses reveal that LPS preconditioning facilitates M2 activation in resident microglia but not in infiltrating macrophages. Augmented M2 activation was accompanied by vascularization around the injured lesion, resulting in improvement in both tissue reorganization and functional recovery. Furthermore, we found that M2 activation induced by LPS preconditioning is regulated by interleukin‐10 gene expression, which was preceded by the transcriptional activation of interferon regulatory factor (IRF)−3, as demonstrated by Western blotting and an IRF‐3 binding assay. Altogether, our findings demonstrate that LPS preconditioning has a therapeutic effect on SCI through the modulation of M1/M2 polarization of resident microglia. The present study suggests that controlling M1/M2 polarization through endotoxin signal transduction could become a promising therapeutic strategy for various central nervous system diseases. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Spontaneous MRSA postcricoid abscess: A case report and literature review
Authors: Boyce Brian J. , deSilva Brad W.
Published: July 2014

Laryngeal abscesses are rare but potentially life‐threatening infections due to potential airway obstruction. Most abscesses occur in the epiglottis or preepiglottic space as a sequela of acute supraglottitis. Abscesses in the posterior larynx are extremely rare and typically due to instrumentation or trauma. Appropriate workup and management of the airway are essential for optimizing outcomes in these patients. We present an interesting case and our management of a spontaneous posterior laryngeal abscess due to methicillin‐resistant Staphlococcus aureus. Laryngoscope, 124:2583–2585, 2014
Natural history and biomarkers in hereditary sensory neuropathy type 1
Authors: Fridman Vera , Oaklander Anne louise , David William S. , Johnson Elise A. , Pan Jessica , Novak Peter , Brown Robert H. , Eichler Florian S.
Published: July 2014

Introduction: Hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy type 1 (HSAN1) is most commonly caused by missense mutations in SPTLC1. In this study we mapped symptom progression and compared the utility of outcomes. Methods: We administered retrospective surveys of symptoms and analyzed results of nerve conduction, autonomic function testing (AFT), and PGP9.5‐immunolabeled skin biopsies. Results: The first symptoms were universally sensory and occurred at a median age of 20 years (range 14–54 years). The onset of weakness, ulcers, pain, and balance problems followed sequentially. Skin biopsies revealed universally absent epidermal innervation at the distal leg with relative preservation in the thigh. Neurite density was highly correlated with total Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth Examination Score (CMTES; r2 = −0.8) and median motor amplitude (r2 = −0.75). Conclusions: These results confirm sensory loss as the initial symptom of HSAN1 and suggest that skin biopsy may be the most promising biomarker for future clinical trials. Muscle Nerve, 2015 Muscle Nerve 51: 489–495, 2015
II–VI Compounds and Related Materials
Authors: Fujita Shizuo , Kobayashi Masakazu , Yasuda Takashi , Ichino Kunio
Published: July 2014

The present issue of physica status solidi contains papers presented at the 16th International Conference on II–VI Compounds and Related Materials (II–VI 2013) held in Nagahama, Japan, September 9–13, 2013. The papers were selected after peer reviewing and revision processes of original manuscripts.

This conference is the continuation of a successful series of biennial conferences which started in Durham (UK) in 1983. The last three conferences were held in Jeju, Korea (2007), Saint Petersburg, Russia (2009), and Mayan Riviera, Mexico (2011). These conferences have contributed to review and stimulate the progress in basic and applied research on II–VI compounds. More recently, the research targets of II–VI compounds have extended or merged to those of other related materials such as a variety of oxide and chalcopyrite semiconductors, and in this view this conference covered “II–VI Compounds and Related Materials”.

This conference was attended by 143 participants registered for technical sessions from 15 countries all over the world. During the course of the conference, 8 invited talks and 122 contributed papers were given as oral and poster presentation. “II–VI 2013” highlighted fundamental physics in optics and spintronics, new materials and structures contributing to emerging devices, optical devices from infrared to UV as well as X‐ and gamma‐ray regions, transparent electronic devices, and new functions in semiconductors.

We would like to thank all the participants and sponsoring organizations for contributing to the success of the conference and acknowledge the diligent work of the committee members and the referees of manuscripts. A special appreciation is due to financial supporters recognizing the importance of fundamental fields in science and technology covered in this conference.

The 17th conference will be organized by Dr. Christophe Testelin and held in Paris, France, 2015.
Effects of Free Carriers on Piezoelectric Nanogenerators and Piezotronic Devices Made of GaN Nanowire Arrays
Authors: Wang Chao‐Hung , Liao Wei‐Shun , Ku Nai‐Jen , Li Yi‐Chang , Chen Yen‐Chih , Tu Li‐Wei , Liu Chuan‐Pu
Published: July 2014

This study investigates the role of carrier concentration in semiconducting piezoelectric single‐nanowire nanogenerators (SNWNGs) and piezotronic devices. Unintentionally doped and Si‐doped GaN nanowire arrays with various carrier concentrations, ranging from 1017 (unintentionally doped) to 1019 cm−3 (heavily doped), are synthesized. For SNWNGs, the output current of individual nanowires starts from a negligible level and rises to the maximum of ≈50 nA at a doping concentration of 5.63 × 1018 cm−3 and then falls off with further increase in carrier concentration, due to the competition between the reduction of inner resistance and the screening effect on piezoelectric potential. For piezotronic applications, the force sensitivity based on the change of the Schottky barrier height works best for unintentionally doped nanowires, reaching 26.20 ± 1.82 meV nN−1 and then decreasing with carrier concentration. Although both types of devices share the same Schottky diode, they involve different characteristics in that the slope of the current–voltage characteristics governs SNWNG devices, while the turn‐on voltage determines piezotronic devices. It is demonstrated that free carriers in piezotronic materials can influence the slope and turn‐on voltage of the diode characteristics concurrently when subjected to strain. This work offers a design guideline for the optimum doping concentration in semiconductors for obtaining the best performance in piezotronic devices and SNWNGs.
Non‐invasive prenatal testing for fetal aneuploidies in the first trimester of pregnancy
Authors: Song Y. , Huang S. , Zhou X. , Jiang Y. , Qi Q. , Bian X. , Zhang J. , Yan Y. , Cram D. S. , Liu J.
Published: July 2014

Objectives

To evaluate the feasibility of non‐invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) of maternal plasma samples collected from pregnant Chinese women in early gestation, between 8 + 0 and 12 + 6 weeks' gestation.

Methods

In this pilot study, 212 women with high‐risk pregnancies were recruited at a single Chinese Hospital. Fetal aneuploidies associated with chromosomes 21, 18, 13, X and Y were detected by massively parallel sequencing of maternal plasma DNA samples. Invasive prenatal diagnosis by either chorionic villus sampling or amniocentesis and then karyotyping was offered to all women to confirm both positive and negative NIPT results. Fetal DNA fraction was also determined in male pregnancies, by the relative percentage of Y‐chromosome sequences. All confirmed NIPT‐negative pregnancies were followed up to birth and neonates were clinically evaluated for any symptoms of chromosomal disease.

Results

Autosomal aneuploidies trisomy 21 (n = 2), 18 (n = 1) and 13 (n = 1) were detected by NIPT and confirmed by amniocentesis and karyotyping. There were one false‐positive 45,X sample and two false‐negative samples associated with fetal karyotypes 47,XXY and 45,X[16]/47,XXX[14]. In the 100 male pregnancies, the median fetal DNA fraction was 8.54% and there was a trend towards an increasing fetal fraction from 8 + 0 to 12 + 6 weeks' gestation. The majority (95%) of pregnancies had a fetal DNA fraction > 4%, which is generally the limit for accurate aneuploidy detection by NIPT. Across this early gestational time period, there was a weak inverse relationship (R2 = 0.186) between fetal DNA fraction and maternal weight.

Conclusions

NIPT is highly reliable and accurate when applied to maternal DNA samples collected from pregnant women in the first trimester between 8 + 0 and 12 + 6 weeks. Copyright © 2014 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Fabrication of SAPO‐34 with Tuned Mesopore Structure
Authors: Razavian Marjan , Fatemi Shohreh
Published: July 2014

Crystalline SAPO‐34 molecular sieves with hierarchical network were synthesized employing polyethylene glycol (PEG) as the meso‐generating agent via a self‐assembly strategy. XRD, FESEM, N2 adsorption‐desorption and FT‐IR spectroscopic analyses showed that PEG co‐template has a decisive role in tailoring the pore structure and producing a tuned structure from microporous towards the mesoporous structure. Also, addition of PEG favored the formation of more uniform and smaller crystals than the conventional SAPO‐34. In fact, PEG did not only control the size of crystals due to its crystal growth inhibiting (CGI) effect but also modified the morphology of the crystals and improved CSD (crystal size distribution) along with induction of mesopores into the porous structure. The modified SAPO‐34 would be recommended for selective formation of light olefins through the acid‐catalyzed reactions, such as the conversion of methanol to olefins/propylene (MTO/MTP) and propane dehydrogenation (PDH) to produce olefins with higher selectivity and catalyst stability than the conventional SAPO‐34.
Behavioral and physiological responses in felids to exhibit construction
Authors: Chosy Julia , Wilson Megan , Santymire Rachel
Published: July 2014

Despite the growing body of literature examining the welfare of zoo‐housed animals, little standardized work has been published on the effect of construction and environmental disruption on the physiology and behavior of affected animals. When Lincoln Park Zoo (Chicago, IL), embarked on a renovation project for its Kovler Lion House, the opportunity was taken to perform a scientific study of behavioral and physiological markers in the resident felids to determine the effect of construction and environmental disruption. Fecal samples and behavioral observations were collected on four felid species (five individuals) before, during, and after the period of construction. As a group, the average z‐score for fecal glucocorticoid metabolite concentration increased during construction relative to baseline. Levels remained elevated after construction, but trended toward baseline. All individuals demonstrated a significant decrease in the frequency of pacing and time spent visible during construction. Overall activity levels also showed a significant decrease relative to baseline measures. As zoological institutions continue to recognize the importance of habitat design, construction and renovation become inevitable. It is important to be aware of the potential consequences this can have on animals in the vicinity and to work toward minimizing negative effects. One recommendation is the availability of ample retreat and hiding space for felids during disruption to their environment. Zoo Biol. 33:267–274, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of metabolic pathway precursors and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) on poly-(gamma)-glutamic acid production by Bacillus subtilis BL53
Authors: de Cesaro Alessandra , da Silva Suse Botelho , Ayub Marco Antônio Záchia
Published: July 2014

The aims of this study were to evaluate the effects of the addition of metabolic precursors and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) as an oxygen carrier to cultures of Bacillus subtilis BL53 during the production of γ-PGA. Kinetics analyses of cultivations of different media showed that B. subtilis BL53 is an exogenous glutamic acid-dependent strain. When the metabolic pathway precursors of γ-PGA synthesis, l-glutamine and a-ketoglutaric acid, were added to the culture medium, production of the biopolymer was increased by 20 % considering the medium without these precursors. The addition of 10 % of the oxygen carrier PDMS to cultures caused a two-fold increase in the volumetric oxygen mass transfer coefficient (kLa), improving γ-PGA production and productivity. Finally, bioreactor cultures of B. subtilis BL53 adopting the combination of optimized medium E, added of glutamine, α-ketoglutaric acid, and PDMS, showed a productivity of 1 g L−1 h−1 of g-PGA after only 24 h of cultivation. Results of this study suggest that the use of metabolic pathway precursors glutamine and a-ketolgutaric acid, combined with the addition of PDMS as an oxygen carrier in bioreactors, can improve γ-PGA production and productivity by Bacillus strains .
Disparities in Current and Future Childhood and Newborn Carrier Identification
Authors: Noke Melissa , Wearden Alison , Peters Sarah , Ulph Fiona
Published: July 2014

International carrier testing guidelines discourage testing in childhood to preserve autonomous decision making and prevent detrimental psychosocial consequences. Despite the discouragement of autosomal recessive carrier testing during childhood, some sickle cell disease (SCD) or cystic fibrosis (CF) carriers are incidentally identified through UK and international newborn screening (NBS). This creates a scenario where parents may have knowledge of their newborn's, but not older child's carrier status. In addition, there is wide variation in the identification of CF and SCD carriers due to the screening technologies implemented by different NBS programs. The current and future availability of childhood testing are determined to some extent by the impact of testing on children and parents (whether this is beneficial or detrimental to wellbeing). However empirical research informing carrier guidance and practice is conflicting. Echoing previous calls, this discussion highlights the need for further qualitative and longitudinal research with children to consider the psychosocial impact of carrier testing on children and role of disclosure from parents on adaptation to results. It is recommended that professionals aim to minimize harms resulting from carrier identification by providing support for parents and children following NBS. Support for non‐genetics specialists from genetic counselors to enable discussion of carrier results with children is suggested.