bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Host switching in a generalist parasitoid: contrasting transient and transgenerational costs associated with novel and original host species
Authors: Jones Thomas S. , Bilton Adam R. , Mak Lorraine , Sait Steven M.
Published: January 2015

Parasitoids face challenges by switching between host species that influence survival and fitness, determine their role in structuring communities, influence species invasions, and affect their importance as biocontrol agents. In the generalist parasitoid,Venturia canescens(Gravenhorst) (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae), we investigated the costs in encapsulation, survival, and body size on juveniles when adult parasitoids switched from their original host,Plodia interpunctella(Hübner) (Lepidotera, Pyralidae) to a novel host,Ephestia kuehniella(Zeller) (Lepidoptera, Pyralidae), over multiple generations. Switching had an initial survival cost for juvenile parasitoids in the novel host, but increased survival occurred within two generations. Conversely, mortality in the original host increased. Body size, a proxy for fecundity, also increased with the number of generations in the novel host species, reflecting adaptation or maternal effects due to the larger size of the novel host, and therefore greater resources available to the developing parasitoid. Switching to a novel host appears to have initial costs for a parasitoid, even when the novel host may be better quality, but the costs rapidly diminish. We predict that the net cost of switching to a novel host for parasitoids will be complex and will depend on the initial reduction in fitness from parasitizing a novel host versus local adaptations against parasitoids in the original host.
Reactivity and Mechanistic Studies of the Reactions of Chlorodiphenylphosphine and Its Oxide with Methyl Glyoxylate, Glyoxylate Oximes, and Methyl Cyanoformate
Authors: Sousa Carlos A. D. , Lima Carlos F. R. A. C. , Sampaio‐Dias Ivo E. , Garcia‐Mera Xerardo , Rodríguez‐Borges José E.
Published: January 2015

In this work, we describe the reactivity of chlorodiphenylphosphine and its oxide, as well as diphenylphosphine, with some glyoxylate derivative systems: methyl glyoxylate, methyl or 8‐phenylneomenthyl glyoxylate oximes, and methyl cyanoformate. By analyzing the reactions outcomes and with the aid of computational chemistry, we propose some reaction mechanisms and molecular rearrangements.
User Satisfaction with Tablet PC Features
Authors: Kim Kyungdoh , Lim Ji Hyoun , Proctor Robert W. , Salvendy Gavriel
Published: January 2015

Previous studies of tablet personal computers have concentrated on their use in education and healthcare. The current study focused instead on personal usage, investigating how satisfied users are with their own tablets after having used them in their daily lives. The objective was to identify the major features for tablets and to investigate how form factors affect the preference of functions by performing a comparison of iPad1 and Galaxy Tab. Also, gender and ethnicity were analyzed to determine whether they influence satisfaction with the devices. For e‐mail and web browsing functions, users’ ratings showed more satisfaction with the iPad1 since it has a larger display; for the e‐book reader function, users indicated higher satisfaction with the Galaxy Tab. Male users evaluated their devices by the function itself, whereas female users were mainly concerned with aesthetic aspects. Koreans indicated that they were less satisfied with their tablets than were other ethnic groups.
Exposure, Agency, Perceived Threat, and Guilt as Predictors of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Veterans
Authors: Huang Hsin‐hsin , Kashubeck‐West Susan
Published: January 2015

Using a sample of 289 Iraq/Afghanistan veterans, this study examined the contributions of combat exposure, agency, perceived threat, and guilt to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Regression analyses indicated the four variables (together with demographic variables) accounted for 79% of the variance in PTSD symptoms. Guilt was the most important predictor. In addition, guilt mediated between exposure and PTSD symptoms, perceived threat and PTSD symptoms, and agency and PTSD symptoms. Implications of these findings are discussed.
The Relationship Between Counseling Trainee Perfectionism and the Working Alliance With Supervisor and Client
Authors: Ganske Kathryn H. , Gnilka Philip B. , Ashby Jeffrey S. , Rice Kenneth G.
Published: January 2015

The relationships between perfectionism, counseling self‐efficacy, and the supervisory and client working alliance were investigated among 143 counseling trainees and 46 supervisor–trainee dyads. Maladaptive perfectionism was negatively correlated with the supervisory alliance and working alliance. Counseling self‐efficacy moderated the relationship between adaptive perfectionism and the supervisory alliance (perspective of the counseling trainee) and maladaptive perfectionism and the supervisory alliance (perspective of the supervisor). The authors conclude that supervisors should consider perfectionism and counseling self‐efficacy as important factors in supervision.
Exploring the Relationship Between Religious Coping and Spirituality Among Three Types of Collegiate Substance Abuse
Authors: Giordano Amanda L. , Prosek Elizabeth A. , Daly Cynthia M. , Holm Jessica M. , Ramsey Zachary B. , Abernathy Meagan R. , Sender Kristy M.
Published: January 2015

Religion and spirituality are protective factors against collegiate substance abuse; however, considering the variance among different types of drug abuse is important. We investigated religious coping and spirituality in relation to hazardous drinking, marijuana use, and psychostimulant use. Results indicated that positive religious coping and several dimensions of spirituality protect against hazardous drinking and marijuana use. Furthermore, differences in religious coping and spirituality may not exist between groups of psychostimulant users.
The Necessity of Counselor Individuation for Fostering Reflective Practice
Authors: Rosin Jessica
Published: January 2015

Counselor self‐reflection is crucial for increasing self‐awareness and improving counseling practice. Nonetheless, the definition for reflective practice is noninclusive of practitioner self‐reflection. Furthermore, little is known about the characteristics necessary for critical self‐reflection, resulting in insufficient guidance for practitioners to acquire critical self‐reflective capabilities. Examining these concerns reveals that counselors will be more capable of reflective practice as they individuate, or develop, their personalities. Thus, the promotion of counselor individuation is essential.
Counseling in Iran: History, Current Status, and Future Trends
Authors: Fatemi Azadeh , Khodayari Leila , Stewart Alan
Published: January 2015

As a growing profession, counseling in Iran was first established within the Iranian educational system. Counselors in Iran have provided mental health services during natural disasters and war. The counseling profession in Iran currently faces challenges in addressing the needs of women; ethnic minorities; and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals. In this article, the authors focus on the historical background, current trends, and future challenges of the counseling profession in Iran.
Thomas J. Sweeney: A Visionary Leader and Advocate for the Counseling Profession
Authors: Kress Victoria E. , Barrio Minton Casey A.
Published: January 2015

The contributions of Thomas J. Sweeney to the counseling profession through professional leadership and advocacy, scholarship, teaching, and the development of Chi Sigma Iota are chronicled through a personal interview and comments from professional colleagues. Readers are provided with a sense of the depth and breadth of his more than 50 years of dedicated service.
Implications of Transnational Adoption Status for Adult Korean Adoptees
Authors: Langrehr Kimberly J. , Yoon Eunju , Hacker Jason , Caudill Kathy
Published: January 2015

This study used a consensual qualitative research method to explore the implications of transnational adoption in the lives of 12 adult Korean adoptees. From the analysis, 6 domains emerged: (a) adoption history and preadoptive memories, (b) meaning of adoption, (c) adoptive family dynamics, (d) racism, (e) identity formation, and (f) counseling experiences. Results highlight the need for more awareness surrounding transnational adoption throughout the life span. Additional suggestions concerning research and practice are discussed.

Este estudio usó un método de investigación cualitativa consensual para explorar las implicaciones de la adopción transnacional en las vidas de 12 adultos coreanos adoptados. A partir del análisis, surgieron 6 parámetros: (a) la historia de adopción y las memorias preadoptivas, (b) el significado de la adopción, (c) la dinámica de la familia adoptiva, (d) racismo, (e) formación de la identidad, y (f) experiencias en consejería. Los resultados destacan la necesidad de prestar mayor atención a la adopción transnacional a lo largo de toda la vida. Se discuten sugerencias adicionales relacionadas con la investigación y la práctica.
Foreign‐Born Therapists: How Acculturation and Supervisors' Multicultural Competence Are Associated With Clinical Self‐Efficacy
Authors: Kissil Karni , Davey Maureen , Davey Adam
Published: January 2015

The authors examined the associations between acculturation, supervisors' multicultural competence, and clinicians' self‐efficacy in a sample of 153 immigrant therapists currently practicing in the United States. Participants completed a demographic questionnaire and 3 additional questionnaires that examined their levels of acculturation, perceived supervisors' multicultural competence, and clinical self‐efficacy. Results suggested that perceived prejudice, not level of acculturation, was significantly associated with foreign‐born therapists' clinical self‐efficacy. Perceived supervisors' multicultural competence was significantly associated with therapists' clinical self‐efficacy. Recommendations for supervisors working with foreign‐born therapists are provided.

Los autores examinaron las asociaciones entre aculturación, competencia multicultural de los supervisores y autoeficacia de los profesionales clínicos en una muestra de 153 terapeutas inmigrantes actualmente en activo en los Estados Unidos. Los participantes completaron un cuestionario demográfico y tres cuestionarios adicionales que examinaron sus niveles de aculturación, la competencia multicultural percibida de sus supervisores y la autoeficacia clínica. Los resultados sugieren que los prejuicios percibidos, no el nivel de aculturación, están asociados de forma significativa con la autoeficacia clínica de los terapeutas nacidos en el extranjero. La competencia multicultural percibida de sus supervisores está asociada significativamente con la autoeficacia clínica de los terapeutas. Se proporcionan recomendaciones para supervisores que trabajan con terapeutas nacidos en el extranjero.
The Role of Internalized Stereotyping, Parental Pressure, and Parental Support on Asian Americans' Choice of College Major
Authors: Shen Frances C.
Published: January 2015

The author explored the relationship between internalized stereotyping, parental pressure, and parental support on major choices among 315 Asian American undergraduate and graduate students. Results indicated that parental support, but not parental pressure, toward certain majors was associated with more stereotypical major choices. In addition, internalization of academic and career stereotypes was associated with more stereotypical major choices.

El autor exploró la relación entre los estereotipos internalizados, la presión de los padres y el apoyo de los padres en la elección de estudios universitarios de 315 estudiantes de grado y posgrado asiático‐americanos. Los resultados indicaron que el apoyo de los padres, pero no la presión de los padres, hacia ciertas carreras está asociado con elecciones de estudios más estereotípicos. También, la internalización de estereotipos académicos y de carrera laboral está asociada con elecciones de estudios más estereotípicos.
Population pharmacokinetics of pomalidomide
Authors: Li Yan , Xu Yejun , Liu Liangang , Wang Xiaomin , Palmisano Maria , Zhou Simon
Published: January 2015

A population pharmacokinetic (PPK) model of pomalidomide was developed and the influence of demographic and disease‐related covariates on PPK parameters was assessed based on data from 6 clinical trials of pomalidomide (dose range, 0.5–10 mg) in healthy participants (n = 96) and patients with multiple myeloma (MM; n = 144). PPK data described herein suggest that systemic clearance of pomalidomide is comparable between healthy study participants and patients with MM. However, apparent peripheral volume of distribution and apparent intercompartmental clearance between central and peripheral compartments were 8‐ and 3.7‐fold higher in patients with MM vs. healthy subjects, suggesting drug exposure is higher in peripheral compartments of patients with MM vs. healthy subjects. Covariate analysis suggested pomalidomide clearance is not affected by demographic factors except for gender, and it is unlikely this factor is clinically relevant. In addition, renal function as measured by creatinine clearance or renal impairment (RI) does not significantly affect clearance of pomalidomide. In conclusion, pomalidomide has robust pharmacokinetic exposure, not affected by demographic factors or renal impairment. Pomalidomide is preferentially taken up by tumors over healthy tissues in patients with MM.
Cost‐distance analysis of mesopredators as a tool for avian habitat restoration on a naturally fragmented landscape
Authors: Porter John H. , Dueser Raymond D. , Moncrief Nancy D.
Published: January 2015

Removal of mammalian mesopredators is a strategy frequently applied to problems of conservation management, such as protection of rare or endangered species. Effectiveness of predator removal is often dependent on the ease with which additional predators can immigrate into the removal area. We applied cost‐distance analysis, coupled to a sensitivity analysis, and least‐cost path analysis to raccoons (Procyon lotor) and red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) on the Virginia barrier islands to determine the landscape resistance (i.e., difficulty) for mesopredators to reach individual islands from both mainland and island sources, to assess the relative role of mainland versus island populations as sources of immigrants to unoccupied (or depopulated) islands, and to formulate strategies that focus management efforts on a few key predator sources. The minimum energetic resistances to immigration varied over 3 orders of magnitude, making some islands better targets for removal efforts than others. Additionally, because of differences in the distribution of resident populations on the islands, resistance to immigration to a typical island is at least 3 times less for raccoons than for red foxes. Landscape resistance to red fox immigration is typically lower from the mainland, whereas for raccoons inter‐island movements are typically less costly. Empirical data from long‐term field studies of raccoons and red foxes in this system support the resistance structure identified. Overwater transits made by marked and resighted raccoons all were relatively short and relatively low‐cost. Similarly, islands that were recolonized following the removal of raccoons and red foxes all were characterized by very low resistance values. These results are used to identify specific islands for which predator removal efforts are most likely to be successful in aiding the recovery of beach‐nesting and colonial waterbirds in this system. A similar approach may be applied in any landscape where there are distinct differences in the costs of traversing different elements of the landscape. © 2015 The Wildlife Society.
A Novel Strategy for Utilizing Voice Coil Servoactuators in Tensile Tests of Low Volume Protein Hydrogels
Authors: Saqlain Farees , Popa Ionel , Fernández Julio M. , Alegre‐Cebollada Jorge
Published: January 2015

We present a novel tensile testing system optimized for the mechanical loading of microliter volume protein hydrogels. Our apparatus incorporates a voice coil servoactuator capable of carrying out fixed velocity extension‐relaxation cycles as well as extension step protocols. The setup is equipped with a plastic cuvette permitting day‐long incubations in solution. To demonstrate the functionality of the device, we photochemically crosslinked polyproteins of the I91 immunoglobulin domain from the muscle protein titin to create solid hydrogels that recapitulate elastic properties of muscle. We present data from tensile tests of these low volume biomaterials that support protein unfolding as a main determinant of the elasticity of protein hydrogels. Our results demonstrate the potential use of protein hydrogels as biomaterials whose elastic properties dynamically respond to their environment.
Hydrophobic Electrospun Polyimide Nanofibers for Self‐cleaning Materials
Authors: Liu Jie , Huang Jiangnan , Wujcik Evan K. , Qiu Bin , Rutman Dan , Zhang Xi , Salazard Enrique , Wei Suying , Guo Zhanhu
Published: January 2015

In this paper, polyimide (PI) nanofibers with diameters of 300–400 nm are successfully produced via electrospinning methods. Electrospinning parameters such as polymer concentration, applied voltage, feed rate, and the needle‐to‐collector distance have been studied systematically to investigate their effects on morphology. The smooth‐surfaced uniform nanofibers with diameters ranging from 300 to 400 nm can be obtained at the optimal parameters, further discussed herein. The synthesized PI nanofibers show improved thermal stability and a high hydrophobicity with a maximum contact angle of 140.7° and low surface energy of 3.12 mN · m−1, indicating potential applications as self‐cleaning materials, such as solar panel cleaning, window glass cleaning, and cements.
Arachidonoyl‐ethanolamide activates endoplasmic reticulum stress‐apoptosis in tumorigenic keratinocytes: Role of cyclooxygenase‐2 and novel J‐series prostamides
Authors: Soliman Eman , Henderson Kate L. , Danell Allison S. , Van Dross Rukiyah
Published: January 2015

Non‐melanoma skin cancer and other epithelial tumors overexpress cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), differentiating them from normal cells. COX‐2 metabolizes arachidonic acid to prostaglandins including, the J‐series prostaglandins, which induce apoptosis by mechanisms including endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Arachidonoyl‐ethanolamide (AEA) is a cannabinoid that causes apoptosis in diverse tumor types. Previous studies from our group demonstrated that AEA was metabolized by COX‐2 to J‐series prostaglandins. Thus, the current study examines the role of COX‐2, J‐series prostaglandins, and ER stress in AEA‐induced apoptosis. In tumorigenic keratinocytes that overexpress COX‐2, AEA activated the PKR‐like ER kinase (PERK), inositol requiring kinase‐1 (IRE1), and activating transcription factor‐6 (ATF6) ER stress pathways and the ER stress apoptosis‐associated proteins, C/EBP homologous protein‐10 (CHOP10), caspase‐12, and caspase‐3. Using an ER stress inhibitor, it was determined that ER stress was required for AEA‐induced apoptosis. To evaluate the role of COX‐2 in ER stress‐apoptosis, HaCaT keratinocytes with low endogenous COX‐2 expression were transfected with COX‐2 cDNA or an empty vector and AEA‐induced ER stress‐apoptosis occurred only in the presence of COX‐2. Moreover, LC‐MS analysis showed that the novel prostaglandins, 15‐deoxyΔ12,14PGJ2‐EA and Δ12PGJ2/PGJ2‐EA, were synthesized from AEA. These findings suggest that AEA will be selectively toxic in tumor cells that overexpress COX‐2 due to the metabolism of AEA by COX‐2 to J‐series prostaglandin‐ethanolamides (prostamides). Hence, AEA may be an ideal topical agent for the elimination of malignancies that overexpress COX‐2. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Expression and prognostic role of ubiquitination factor E4B in primary hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Xiao‐Fei , Pan Qiu‐Zhong , Pan Ke , Weng De‐Sheng , Wang Qi‐Jing , Zhao Jing‐Jing , He Jia , Liu Qing , Wang Dan‐Dan , Jiang Shan‐Shan , Zheng Hai‐Xia , Lv Lin , Chen Chang‐Long , Zhang Hong‐Xia , Xia Jian‐Chuan
Published: January 2015

Ubiquitination factor E4B (UBE4B) has been speculated to have contradictory functions upon tumorigenesis as an oncogene or tumor suppressor in different types of cancers. We investigated the expression and prognostic role of UBE4B in primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) using cell lines and 149 archived HCC samples. Correlation between the functions of UBE4B in HCC was also explored. We used human HCC cell lines (HepG2, Hep3B, SK‐Hep1, Huh7, SMMC‐7721, BEL‐7402) and a normal hepatocyte cell line (LO2) along with HCC samples from patients who had undergone resection for HCC previously at our hospital. A battery of methods (real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction; Western blotting; immunohistochjemical analyses; cell proliferation and colony formation assays; cell migration and cell invasion assays) were employed to assess various aspects of UBE4B.We found that UBE4B expression was upregulated aberrantly at mRNA and protein levels in human primary HCC tissues. Amplified expression of UBE4B was highly correlated with poor outcome. Silencing of UBE4B expression by siRNA inhibited the proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion of HCC cells in vitro, and resulted in significant apoptosis that was associated with downregulation of expression of Bcl‐2 and upregulation of expression of total p53, p‐p53, Bax and Cleaved‐Caspase3 in HCC cells. Our findings suggested that UBE4B might have an oncogenic role in human primary HCC, and that it could be used as a prognostic marker (as well as a potential molecular target) for the treatment of HCC. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Crk and CrkL are required for cell transformation by v‐fos and v‐ras
Authors: Koptyra Mateusz , Park Tae‐Ju , Curran Tom
Published: January 2015

Crk and CrkL are SH2‐ and SH3‐containing cytosolic adaptor proteins that can induce anchorage‐independent growth of fibroblasts. Crk and CrkL play key roles in maintaining cytoskeletal integrity, cell motility and migration. We investigated the role of these two proteins in oncogenic transformation induced by v‐fos and v‐ras oncogenes using cell lines and fibroblasts carrying conditional alleles of Crk or CrkL. Transformation was assessed by cell morphology, saturation density and anchorage‐independent growth in soft agar. We found that cell lines expressing v‐fos or v‐ras in the absence of Crk or CrkL displayed no evident morphological alterations and reduced anchorage‐independent growth compared to those retaining Crk and CrkL. Similarly, overexpression of v‐fos in mouse embryonic fibroblasts conferred a growth advantage and induced morphological changes, both of which were abrogated in the absence of either Crk or CrkL. In contrast, Crk, but not CrkL, contributed to v‐ras‐induced transformation of embryonic fibroblasts. These results suggest that both Crk and CrkL are required for the acquisition of cellular transformation by v‐fos, whereas Crk plays a more prominent role than CrkL in v‐ras‐induced transformation. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
What Is Left Unsaid: An Interpretive Description of the Information Needs of Parents of Children With Asthma
Authors: Archibald Mandy M. , Caine Vera , Ali Samina , Hartling Lisa , Scott Shannon D.
Published: January 2015

Parents of children with asthma provide the vast majority of day‐to‐day asthma care. Understanding their information needs is an essential step to provide meaningful and effective family‐centered asthma education. To gain insight into the information needs and information deficits of parents of children with asthma, we conducted an interpretive descriptive study to capture the perspectives of 21 parents from diverse backgrounds whose 23 children with asthma had a range of illness trajectories and management scenarios. Parents were purposively sampled from two asthma clinics and one pediatric emergency department in a large urban center in North America. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted in 2011–2012. In data analysis, parents’ self‐identified information needs were distinguished from analysts’ interpretations of information deficits. Participants’ knowledge did not always reflect time since diagnosis, and information needs and deficits persisted for years. Parents often reported receiving little or no little or no education about asthma and its management. An asthma management information hierarchy was identified, starting with the most foundational, recognizing severity; followed by acute management; prevention versus crisis orientation; and knowing “about” asthma. In the absence of adequate and accurate education, parents’ beliefs about the nature of asthma as an acute rather than chronic condition shaped their asthma management decisions and information‐seeking behaviors. Information deficits were affected by interactions with health care providers. These parents’ pervasive unmet information needs and deficits highlight the need for comprehensive, problem‐oriented asthma education. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis and Characterization of CeO2 Nanoparticles via Solution Combustion Method for Photocatalytic and Antibacterial Activity Studies
Authors: Ravishankar Thammadihalli Nanjundaiah , Ramakrishnappa Thippeswamy , Nagaraju Ganganagappa , Rajanaika Hanumanaika
Published: January 2015

CeO2 nanoparticles have been proven to be competent photocatalysts for environmental applications because of their strong redox ability, nontoxicity, long‐term stability, and low cost. We have synthesized CeO2 nanoparticles via solution combustion method using ceric ammonium nitrate as an oxidizer and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) as fuel at 450 °C. These nanoparticles exhibit good photocatalytic degradation and antibacterial activity. The obtained product was characterized by various techniques. X‐ray diffraction data confirms a cerianite structure: a cubic phase CeO2 having crystallite size of 35 nm. The infrared spectrum shows a strong band below 700 cm−1 due to the Ce−O−Ce stretching vibrations. The UV/Vis spectrum shows maximum absorption at 302 nm. The photoluminescence spectrum shows characteristic peaks of CeO2 nanoparticles. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images clearly show the presence of a porous network with a lot of voids. From transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images, it is clear that the particles are almost spherical, and the average size of the nanoparticles is found to be 42 nm. CeO2 nanoparticles exhibit photocatalytic activity against trypan blue at pH 10 in UV light, and the reaction follows pseudo first‐order kinetics. Finally, CeO2 nanoparticles also reduce CrVI to CrIII and show antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Numerical Analysis of Titanium Compounds in Blast Furnace Hearth During Titania Addition
Authors: Komiyama Keisuke Matthew , Guo Bao‐Yu , Zughbi Habib , Zulli Paul , Yu Ai‐Bing
Published: January 2015

The longevity of an iron making blast furnace is largely limited by the erosion of hearth refractory. The addition of titanium (Ti)‐bearing materials into the furnace may promote so‐called Ti‐rich scaffolds along the damaged hearth lining. A Computational Fluid Dynamics model is used to investigate the complex transport phenomena associated with the formation and dissolution of solid particles. Based on the modeling results, the isotherm of the equilibrium temperature of the incoming hot metal solution can be used as an indicator for the extent and phase of Ti compounds. It is proposed that the particles can be managed by controlling the location of this isotherm. This can be conducted by either (a) altering the Ti dosage and concentration or (b) altering the hot metal pool temperature. The effects of these parameters on the solids holdup along the hearth refractory linings are investigated. The equilibrium isotherm concept may provide a more suitable way to control the location of Ti‐based particles for furnace operators.
Direct fungal fermentation of lignocellulosic biomass into itaconic, fumaric, and malic acids: current and future prospects
Authors: Mondala Andro H
Published: January 2015

Various economic and environmental sustainability concerns as well as consumer preference for bio-based products from natural sources have paved the way for the development and expansion of biorefining technologies. These involve the conversion of renewable biomass feedstock to fuels and chemicals using biological systems as alternatives to petroleum-based products. Filamentous fungi possess an expansive portfolio of products including the multifunctional organic acids itaconic, fumaric, and malic acids that have wide-ranging current applications and potentially addressable markets as platform chemicals. However, current bioprocessing technologies for the production of these compounds are mostly based on submerged fermentation, which necessitates physicochemical pretreatment and hydrolysis of lignocellulose biomass to soluble fermentable sugars in liquid media. This review will focus on current research work on fungal production of itaconic, fumaric, and malic acids and perspectives on the potential application of solid-state fungal cultivation techniques for the consolidated hydrolysis and organic acid fermentation of lignocellulosic biomass.
Diffuse binding of Zn2+ to the denatured ensemble of Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase 1
Authors: Szpryngiel Scarlett , Oliveberg Mikael , Mäler Lena
Published: January 2015

The stability and structural properties of the metalloprotein superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) are found to depend critically on metal ions. Native SOD1 monomers coordinate one structural Zn2+ and one redox‐active Cu2+/1+ to the active site. To do this, the Zn2+ ions need to interact with the SOD1 protein on the denatured side of the folding barrier, prior to the formation of the folding nucleus. In this study, we have examined at residue level the nature of this early Zn2+ binding by NMR studies on the urea denatured‐state of SOD1. Nearly complete backbone chemical shift assignments were obtained in 9 M urea at physiological pH, conditions at which NMR studies are scarce. Our results demonstrate that SOD1 is predominantly unstructured under these conditions. Chemical‐shift changes upon Zn2+ titration show that denatured SOD1 retains a significant affinity to Zn2+ ions, even in 9 M urea. However, the Zn2+ interactions are not limited to the native metal‐binding ligands in the two binding sites, but are seen for all His residues. Moreover, the native Cu2+/1+ ligand H46 seems not to bind as well as the other His residues, while the nearby non‐native H43 does bind, indicating that the binding geometry is relaxed. The result suggests that the Zn2+‐binding observed to catalyze folding of SOD1 in physiological buffer is initiated by diffuse, non‐specific coordination to the coil, which subsequently funnels by ligand exchange into the native coordination geometry of the folded monomer. Altogether, this diffuse binding is a result with fundamental implications for folding of metalloproteins in general.
The responses of hypothalamic NPY and OBRb mRNA expression to food deprivation develop during the neonatal‐prepubertal period and exhibit gender differences in rats
Authors: Matsuzaki Toshiya , Iwasa Takeshi , Tungalagsuvd Altankhuu , Munkhzaya Munkhsaikhan , Kawami Takako , Yamasaki Mikio , Murakami Masahiro , Kato Takeshi , Kuwahara Akira , Yasui Toshiyuki , Irahara Minoru
Published: January 2015

Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is an important hypothalamic orexigenic neuropeptide that acts in the brain. It has been established that the fasting‐induced up‐regulation of NPY expression is mainly caused by a reduction in the activity of leptin, which is a hormone secreted by adipose tissue. We have reported that in female rats hypothalamic NPY mRNA expression does not respond to fasting during the early neonatal period, but subsequently becomes sensitive to it later in the neonatal period. In this study, we compared the developmental changes in the responses of NPY and leptin expression to fasting between male and female rats during the neonatal to pre‐pubertal period. Fasting was induced by maternal deprivation during the pre‐weaning period (postnatal days 10 and 20) and by food deprivation during the post‐weaning period (postnatal day 30). Hypothalamic NPY mRNA expression was not affected by fasting on postnatal day 10, whereas it was increased by fasting on postnatal day 20 and 30 in both males and females. On the other hand, the serum leptin level was decreased by fasting at all examined ages in both sexes. Namely, hypothalamic NPY mRNA expression was not correlated with the reduction in the serum leptin level at postnatal day 10 in either sex. Under the fasted conditions, the hypothalamic NPY mRNA levels of the males were higher than those of the females on postnatal days 20 and 30, whereas no such differences were observed under the normal nourishment conditions. The serum leptin levels observed under the fasted conditions did not differ between males and females at any examined age. These results suggest that some hypothalamic NPY functions develop during the neonatal period and that there is no major difference between the sexes with regard to the time when NPY neurons become sensitive to fasting. They also indicate that hypothalamic NPY expression is more sensitive to under‐nutrition in male rats than in female rats, at least during the pre‐pubertal period.
First-principles study of electronic structure and photocatalytic properties of MnNiO3 as an alkaline oxygen-evolution photocatalyst
Authors: Yu Jie , Yan Qimin , Chen Wei , Jain Anubhav , Neaton Jeffrey B. , Persson Kristin A.
Published: January 2015

We present a first-principles study of MnNiO3, a promising oxygen-evolution photocatalyst.
Layer-by-layer assembly of a redox enzyme displayed on the surface of elongated bacteria into a hierarchical artificial biofilm based anode
Authors: Xia Lin , Ravenna Yehonatan , Alfonta Lital
Published: January 2015

A highly efficient artificial biofilm based anode was constructed by an assembly of an elongatedE. coliwith surface displayed redox-enzyme.
Protein design algorithms predict viable resistance to an experimental antifolate
Authors: Reeve Stephanie M. , Gainza Pablo , Frey Kathleen M. , Georgiev Ivelin , Donald Bruce R. , Anderson Amy C.
Published: January 2015

Significance

Computationally predicting drug resistance mutations early in the discovery phase would be an important breakthrough in drug development. The most meaningful predictions of target mutations will show reduced affinity for the drug while maintaining viability in the complex context of a cell. Here, the protein design algorithm K* in Osprey was used to predict a single-nucleotide polymorphism in the target dihydrofolate reductase that confers resistance to an experimental antifolate in the preclinical discovery phase. Excitingly, the mutation was also selected in bacteria under antifolate pressure, confirming the prediction of a viable molecular response to external stress.
Percolation transition in dynamical traffic network with evolving critical bottlenecks
Authors: Li Daqing , Fu Bowen , Wang Yunpeng , Lu Guangquan , Berezin Yehiel , Stanley H. Eugene , Havlin Shlomo
Published: January 2015

Significance

The transition between free flow and congestions in traffic can be observed in our daily life. Although this traffic phenomenon is well studied in highways, traffic in a network scale (representing a city) is far from being understood. A fundamental unsolved question is how the global flow in a city is being integrated from local flows. Here, we identify a fundamental mechanism of traffic organization in a network scale as a percolation process, and we show how global traffic breaks down when identified bottlenecks are congested. These bottlenecks evolve with time according to traffic dynamics and are different from structural bottleneck links found by traditional network analysis. Improvement of traffic on these bottlenecks can significantly improve the global traffic.
Purification and characterization of Fab fragments with rapid reaction kinetics against myoglobin
Authors: Song Hyung-Nam , Kim Dong-Hyung , Park Sung-Goo , Lee Myung Kyu , Paek Se-Hwan , Woo Eui-Jeon
Published: January 2015

Myoglobin is an early biomarker for acute myocardial infarction. Recently, we isolated the antibody IgG-Myo2-7ds, which exhibits unique rapid reaction kinetics toward human myoglobin antigen. Antibodies with rapid dissociation kinetics are thought to be premature IgG forms that are produced during the early stage of in vivo immunization. In the present study, we identified the epitope region of the IgG-Myo2-7ds antibody to be the C-terminal region of myoglobin, which corresponds to 144–154 aa. The Fab fragment was directly purified by papain cleavage and protein G affinity chromatography and demonstrated kinetics of an association constant of 4.02 × 104 M−1 s−1 and a dissociation constant of 2.28 × 10−2 s−1, which retained the unique reaction kinetics of intact IgG-Myo2-7ds antibodies. Because a rapid dissociation antibody can be utilized for antibody recycling, the results from this study would provide a platform for the development of antibody engineering in potential diagnostic areas such as a continuous monitoring system for heart disease.
Mechanism for the antibacterial action of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCg) on Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Nakayama Motokazu , Shimatani Kanami , Ozawa Tadahiro , Shigemune Naofumi , Tomiyama Daisuke , Yui Koji , Katsuki Mao , Ikeda Keisuke , Nonaka Ai , Miyamoto Takahisa
Published: January 2015

Catechins are a class of polyphenols and have high anti-bacterial activity against various microorganisms. Here, we report the mechanism for antibacterial activity of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCg) against Gram-positive bacteria Bacillus subtilis, which is highly sensitive to EGCg. Transmission electron microscope analysis revealed that deposits containing EGCg were found throughout the cell envelope from the outermost surface to the outer surface of cytoplasmic membrane. Aggregating forms of proteins and EGCg were identified as spots that disappeared or showed markedly decreased intensity after the treatment with EGCg compared to the control by two-dimensional electrophoresis. Among the identified proteins included 4 cell surface proteins, such as oligopeptide ABC transporter binding lipoprotein, glucose phosphotransferase system transporter protein, phosphate ABC transporter substrate-binding protein, and penicillin-binding protein 5. Observations of glucose uptake of cells and cell shape B. subtilis after the treatment with EGCg suggested that EGCg inhibits the major functions of these proteins, leading to growth inhibition of B. subtilis.
The chromodomain-containing histone acetyltransferase TIP60 acts as a code reader, recognizing the epigenetic codes for initiating transcription
Authors: Kim Chul-Hong , Kim Jung-Woong , Jang Sang-Min , An Joo-Hee , Seo Sang-Beom , Choi Kyung-Hee
Published: January 2015

TIP60 can act as a transcriptional activator or a repressor depending on the cellular context. However, little is known about the role of the chromodomain in the functional regulation of TIP60. In this study, we found that TIP60 interacted with H3K4me3 in response to TNF-α signaling. TIP60 bound to H3K4me3 at the promoters of the NF-κB target genes IL6 and IL8. Unlike the wild-type protein, a TIP60 chromodomain mutant did not localize to chromatin regions. Because TIP60 binds to histones with specific modifications and transcriptional regulators, we used a histone peptide assay to identify histone codes recognized by TIP60. TIP60 preferentially interacted with methylated or acetylated histone H3 and H4 peptides. Phosphorylation near a lysine residue significantly reduced the affinity of TIP60 for the modified histone peptides. Our findings suggest that TIP60 acts as a functional link between the histone code and transcriptional regulators.
Extra tyrosine in the carbohydrate-binding module of Irpex lacteus Xyn10B enhances its cellulose-binding ability
Authors: Nishijima Hiroto , Nozaki Kouichi , Mizuno Masahiro , Arai Tsutomu , Amano Yoshihiko
Published: January 2015

The xylanase (Xyn10B) that strongly adsorbs on microcrystalline cellulose was isolated from Driselase. The Xyn10B contains a Carbohydrate-binding module family 1 (CBM1) (IrpCBMXyn10B) at N-terminus. The canonical essential aromatic residues required for cellulose binding were conserved in IrpCBMXyn10B; however, its adsorption ability was markedly higher than that typically observed for the CBM1 of an endoglucanase from Trametes hirsuta (ThCBMEG1). An analysis of the CBM-GFP fusion proteins revealed that the binding capacity to cellulose (7.8 μmol/g) and distribution coefficient (2.0 L/μmol) of IrpCBMXyn10B-GFP were twofold higher than those of ThCBMEG1-GFP (3.4 μmol/g and 1.2 L/μmol, respectively), used as a reference structure. Besides the canonical aromatic residues (W24-Y50-Y51) of typical CBM1-containing proteins, IrpCBMXyn10B had an additional aromatic residue (Y52). The mutation of Y52 to Ser (IrpCBMY52S-GFP) reduced these adsorption parameters to 4.4 μmol/g and 1.5 L/μmol, which were similar to those of ThCBMEG1-GFP. These results indicate that Y52 plays a crucial role in strong cellulose binding.
Small molecule-sensing strategy and techniques for understanding the functionality of green tea
Authors: Fujimura Yoshinori
Published: January 2015

Various low-molecular-weight phytochemicals in green tea (Camellia sinensis L.), especially (–)-epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG), are known to be involved in health promotion and disease risk reduction. However, the underlying mechanism has remained elusive because of the absence of an analytical technique that can easily detect the precise behavior of such a small molecule. Recently, we have identified a cell-surface EGCG-sensing receptor and the related signaling molecules that control the physiological functions of EGCG. We also developed a novel in situ label-free imaging technique for visualizing spatially resolved biotransformations based on simultaneous mapping of EGCG and its phase II metabolites. Furthermore, we established a chemometric method capable of evaluating the functionality of multicomponent green tea extracts by focusing on their compositional balances. This review highlights our proposed small molecule-sensing techniques for detecting the complex behavior of green tea components and linking such information to an enhanced understanding of green tea functionality.
Differential Effect of Renal Cortical and Medullary Interstitial Fluid Calcium on Blood Pressure Regulation in Salt-Sensitive Hypertension
Authors: Pointer Mildred A. , Eley Shaleka , Anderson Lauren , Waters Brittany , Royall Brittany , Nichols Sheena , Wells Candace
Published: January 2015

BACKGROUND

Hypercalciuria is a frequent characteristic of hypertension. In this report we extend our earlier studies investigating the role of renal interstitial fluid calcium (ISFCa)2+ as a link between urinary calcium excretion and blood pressure in the Dahl salt-sensitive (DS) hypertensive model.

METHODS

Dahl salt-sensitive and salt-resistant (DR) rats were placed on control (0.45%) and high (8%) salt diets to determine if changes in renal cortical and medullary ISFCa2+correlated with changes in urinary calcium excretion and blood pressure.

RESULTS

We observed that renal ISFCa2+ was predicted by urinary calcium excretion (P < 0.05) in DS rats but not DR rats. Renal cortical ISFCa2+ was negatively associated with blood pressure (P < 0.03) while renal medullary ISFCa2+ was positively associated with blood pressure in DS rats (P < 0.04). In contrast, neither urinary calcium excretion nor renal ISFCa2+ was associated with blood pressure in the DR rats under the conditions of this study.

CONCLUSION

We interpret these findings to suggest that decreased renal cortical ISFCa2+ plays a role in the increase in blood pressure following a high salt diet in salt hypertension perhaps by mediating renal vasoconstriction; the role of medullary calcium remains to be fully understood. Further studies are needed to determine the mechanism of the altered renal ISFCa2+ and its role in blood pressure regulation.
Decision tree analysis for the determination of relevant variables and quantifiable reference points to establish maturity stages in Enteroctopus megalocyathus and Illex argentinus
Authors: Crespi-Abril Augusto César , Ortiz Nicolás , Galván David Edgardo
Published: January 2015

Determining the maturity condition of a large number of individuals is crucial for stock assessment and management of cephalopod populations, but this task is difficult to conduct in practice. We propose a novel approach for maturity stage classification using observer-independent criteria. Relevant morphological variables for classification are determined via decision tree (DT) analysis. Using Illex argentinus and Enteroctopus megalocyathus as case studies, individuals were sexed and assigned to a maturity stage defined by specific macroscopic maturity scales. Also, for each individual, the weight of the gonad, accessory glands/ducts, mantle length, and total weight were recorded and maturity indices were calculated (Hayashi index and gonadosomatic index). Two different DT models were fitted: one considering all maturity stages and the other considering only intermediate maturity stages since these are the most difficult to determine in practice. For the classification of I. argentinus among all stages, the weights of the nidamental gland and oviducts were the most relevant variables for females (misclassification 23%), while spermatophoric complex and testis weights were the key variables for males (misclassification 23%). For classification of intermediate stages only, the nidamental gland and spermatophoric complex weights were the most relevant variables to classify females (misclassification 19%) and males (misclassification 21%), respectively. For E. megalocyathus, the oviducts and ovary weights of females and the terminal organ weight of males were the most relevant variables for classification among all maturity stages (misclassification 16% and 18%, respectively). For intermediate maturity stages, the same variables were most important and misclassification improved to 13% for both sexes. Gonadosomatic and Hayashi's indices were not relevant in either model. DTs based on measurements of cephalopod reproductive systems revealed a simple classification system for maturity stages using only a few variables that are easy to measure in the field and are independent of observer training.
A detection threshold in the amplitude spectra calculated from Kepler data obtained during K2 mission
Authors: Baran A. S. , Koen C. , Pokrzywka B.
Published: January 2015

We present our analysis of simulated data in order to derive a detection threshold which can be used in the pre-whitening process of amplitude spectra. In case of ground-based data of pulsating stars, this threshold is conventionally taken to be four times the mean noise level in an amplitude spectrum. This threshold is questionable when space-based data are analysed. Our effort is aimed at revising this threshold in the case of continuous 90-d Kepler K2 phase observations. Our result clearly shows that a 95 per cent confidence level, common for ground observations, can be reached at 5.4 times the mean noise level and is coverage dependent. In addition, this threshold varies between 4.8 and 5.7, if the number of cadences is changed. This conclusion should secure further pre-whitening and helps to avoid over-interpretation of spectra of pulsating stars observed with the Kepler spacecraft during K2 phase. We compare our results with the standard approach widely used in the literature.