bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Educational Software for Power System Analysis
Authors: Güney Irfan , Koçyiğit Gökhan , Onat Nevzat
Published: July 2014

This paper presents educational software that has an unconventional structure and friendly interface and can be used in computer-aided analysis of power systems. The software provides effective and fast solutions to in-line modeling of power systems, failure and power flow analyses. In addition, students using this software can demonstrate their own models and follow the solution steps in detail. The software also presents educational details and graphical mediums, similar to solutions provided by software developed for professional use. For this reason, it has a form that can be used in a workshop environment and distance learning activities.
A Comparative Performance Analysis of a Controlled D.C. and A.C. Motor Which Emulates Wind Turbines for Teaching and Research Purposes
Authors: Reis Alex , da Costa Fernanda Hein , Xavier Guilherme Leal , Alvarenga Elias Barbosa , de Oliveira José Carlos , Guimarães Geraldo Caixeta
Published: July 2014

The growth of wind farms has motivated the development of computational and experimental approaches which supplement needs related to teaching and research in the field of engineering. Even though there have already been recognized advances made in the field of computational modeling, the development of viable means through experiment to clarify the operation of wind farm complexes has become relevant to this area. In light of these facts, this study focuses on a comparative evaluation of two strategies which emulate wind turbines: one based on d.c. motors, the other on three-phase induction motors. In both cases, the apparatus is modeled on time-domain representation techniques and motor driving structures are proposed, allowing for the reproduction of features typically found in wind turbines. Lastly, experiments are realized and the results discussed for the confirmation of potentialities, along with the efficiency of the strategies used.
Structural basis of nucleoside and nucleoside drug selectivity by concentrative nucleoside transporters
Authors: Johnson Zachary Lee , Lee Jun-Ho , Lee Kiyoun , Lee Minhee , Kwon Do-Yeon , Hong Jiyong , Lee Seok-Yong
Published: July 2014

Concentrative nucleoside transporters (CNTs) are responsible for cellular entry of nucleosides, which serve as precursors to nucleic acids and act as signaling molecules. CNTs also play a crucial role in the uptake of nucleoside-derived drugs, including anticancer and antiviral agents. Understanding how CNTs recognize and import their substrates could not only lead to a better understanding of nucleoside-related biological processes but also the design of nucleoside-derived drugs that can better reach their targets. Here, we present a combination of X-ray crystallographic and equilibrium-binding studies probing the molecular origins of nucleoside and nucleoside drug selectivity of a CNT from Vibrio cholerae. We then used this information in chemically modifying an anticancer drug so that it is better transported by and selective for a single human CNT subtype. This work provides proof of principle for utilizing transporter structural and functional information for the design of compounds that enter cells more efficiently and selectively.
Automatic recognition of T and teleseismic P waves by statistical analysis of their spectra: An application to continuous records of moored hydrophones
Authors: Sukhovich Alexey , Irisson Jean‐Olivier , Perrot Julie , Nolet Guust
Published: July 2014

A network of moored hydrophones is an effective way of monitoring seismicity of oceanic ridges since it allows detection and localization of underwater events by recording generated T waves. The high cost of ship time necessitates long periods (normally a year) of autonomous functioning of the hydrophones, which results in very large data sets. The preliminary but indispensable part of the data analysis consists of identifying all T wave signals. This process is extremely time consuming if it is done by a human operator who visually examines the entire database. We propose a new method for automatic signal discrimination based on the Gradient Boosted Decision Trees technique that uses the distribution of signal spectral power among different frequency bands as the discriminating characteristic. We have applied this method to automatically identify the types of acoustic signals in data collected by two moored hydrophones in the North Atlantic. We show that the method is capable of efficiently resolving the signals of seismic origin with a small percentage of wrong identifications and missed events: 1.2% and 0.5% for T waves and 14.5% and 2.8% for teleseismic P waves, respectively. In addition, good identification rates for signals of other types (iceberg and ship generated) are obtained. Our results indicate that the method can be successfully applied to automate the analysis of other (not necessarily acoustic) databases provided that enough information is available to describe statistical properties of the signals to be identified.
Alteration of volcaniclastic deposits at Minna Bluff: Geochemical insights on mineralizing environment and climate during the Late Miocene in Antarctica
Authors: Antibus Joanne V. , Panter Kurt S. , Wilch Thomas I. , Dunbar Nelia , McIntosh William , Tripati Aradhna , Bindeman Ilya , Blusztajn Jerzy
Published: July 2014

Secondary minerals in volcaniclastic deposits at Minna Bluff, a 45 km long peninsula in the Ross Sea, are used to infer processes of alteration and environmental conditions in the Late Miocene. Glassy volcaniclastic deposits are altered and contain phillipsite and chabazite, low to high‐Mg carbonates, chalcedony, and clay. The δ18O of carbonates and chalcedony is variable, ranging from −0.50 to 21.53‰ and 0.68 to 10.37‰, respectively, and δD for chalcedony is light (−187.8 to −220.6‰), corresponding to Antarctic meteoric water. A mean carbonate 87Sr/86Sr ratio of 0.70327 ± 0.0009 (1σ, n = 12) is comparable to lava and suggests freshwater, as opposed to seawater, caused the alteration. Minerals were precipitated at elevated temperatures (91 and 104°C) based on quartz‐calcite equilibrium, carbonate 13C‐18C thermometry (Δ47 derived temperature = 5° to 43°C) and stability of zeolites in geothermal systems (>10 to ∼100°C). The alteration was a result of isolated, ephemeral events involving the exchange between heated meteoric water and glass during or soon after the formation of each deposit. Near‐surface evaporative distillation can explain 18O‐enriched compositions for some Mg‐rich carbonates and chalcedony. The δ18Owater calculated for carbonates (−15.8 to −22.9‰) reveals a broad change, becoming heavier between ∼12 and ∼7 Ma, consistent with a warming climate. These findings are independently corroborated by the interpretation of Late Miocene sedimentary sequences recovered from nearby sediment cores. However, in contrast to a cold‐based thermal regime proposed for ice flow at core sites, wet‐based conditions prevailed at Minna Bluff; a likely consequence of high heat flow associated with an active magma system.
Predicting the cloud patterns of the Madden‐Julian Oscillation through a low‐order nonlinear stochastic model
Authors: Chen N. , Majda A. J. , Giannakis D.
Published: July 2014

We assess the limits of predictability of the large‐scale cloud patterns in the boreal winter Madden‐Julian Oscillation (MJO) as measured through outgoing longwave radiation (OLR) alone, a proxy for convective activity. A recent advanced nonlinear time series technique, nonlinear Laplacian spectral analysis, is applied to the OLR data to define two spatial modes with high intermittency associated with the boreal winter MJO. A recent data‐driven physics‐constrained low‐order stochastic modeling procedure is applied to these time series. The result is a four‐dimensional nonlinear stochastic model for the two observed OLR variables and two hidden variables involving correlated multiplicative noise defined through energy‐conserving nonlinear interaction. Systematic calibration and prediction experiments show the skillful prediction by these models for 40, 25, and 18 days in strong, moderate, and weak MJO winters, respectively. Furthermore, the ensemble spread is an accurate indicator of forecast uncertainty at long lead times.
Stress‐induced spatiotemporal variations in anisotropic structures beneath Hakone volcano, Japan, detected by S wave splitting: A tool for volcanic activity monitoring
Authors: Honda Ryou , Yukutake Yohei , Yoshida Akio , Harada Masatake , Miyaoka Kazuki , Satomura Mikio
Published: July 2014

Hakone volcano, located at the northern tip of the Izu‐Mariana volcanic arc, Japan, has a large caldera structure containing numerous volcanic hot springs. Earthquake swarms have occurred repeatedly within the caldera. The largest seismic swarm since the commencement of modern seismic observations (in 1968) occurred in 2001. We investigated the anisotropic structure of Hakone volcano based on S wave splitting analysis and found spatiotemporal changes in the splitting parameters accompanying the seismic swarm activity. Depth‐dependent anisotropic structures are clearly observed. A highly anisotropic layer with a thickness of ~1.5 km is located beneath the Koziri (KZR) and Kozukayama (KZY) stations. The anisotropic intensity in the region reaches a maximum of 6–7% at a depth of 1 km and decreases markedly to less than 1% at a depth of 2 km. The anisotropic intensity beneath Komagatake station (KOM) decreases gradually from a maximum of 6% at the surface to 0% at a depth of 5 km but is still greater than 2.5% at a depth of 3 km. At KZY, the anisotropic intensity along a travel path of which the back azimuth was the south decreased noticeably after the 2001 seismic swarm activity. During the swarm activity, tilt meters and GPS recorded the crustal deformation. The observed decrease in anisotropic intensity is presumed to be caused by the closing of microcracks by stress changes accompanying crustal deformation near the travel path.
Investigating the aerosol optical and radiative characteristics of heavy haze episodes in Beijing during January of 2013
Authors: Bi Jianrong , Huang Jianping , Hu Zhiyuan , Holben B. N. , Guo Zhiqiang
Published: July 2014

Several heavy atmospheric haze pollution episodes occurred over eastern and northern China during January of 2013. The pollution covered more than 100 km2 and caused serious impacts on environmental quality, human health, and transportation. In this study, we characterize aerosol microphysical, optical, and radiative characteristics using a combination of ground‐based Sun/sky radiometer retrievals and a radiative transfer model. Our results show that during about half of the total number of days, daily PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations are larger than 100 µg/m3, with maxima of 462 and 433 µg/m3, respectively, during the haze events. Fine‐mode (PM2.5) particles dominated the aerosol size during the episodes. The volume size distribution and median radius of fine‐mode particles generally increase as aerosol optical depth at 440 nm (AOD440) increases. The median effective radius of fine‐mode particles increases from 0.15 µm at low AOD value (AOD440 ~ 0.3) to a radius of 0.25–0.30 µm at high AOD value (AOD440 ≥ 1.0). The daily mean single‐scattering albedo (SSA), imaginary part of refractive index (RI), and asymmetry factor display pronounced spectral behaviors. The overall mean SSA440 and SSA675 are 0.892 and 0.905, respectively. The corresponding RI440 and RI675 are 0.016 and 0.011, respectively. This indicates that a significant amount of absorption occurred under the haze event in Beijing during January 2013. Approximately half of the incident solar radiation energy went into heating the atmosphere as a result of strong aerosol loading and absorption. The daily averaged heating rate in the haze particle layer (0–3.2 km) varies from 0.12 to 0.81 K/day in Beijing, which might exert profound impact on the atmospheric thermodynamic and dynamical structures and cloud development, which should be further studied.
Aptamer‐Functionalized Multidimensional Conducting‐Polymer Nanoparticles for an Ultrasensitive and Selective Field‐Effect‐Transistor Endocrine‐Disruptor Sensors
Authors: Lee Jun Seop , Kim Sung Gun , Jun Jaemoon , Shin Dong Hoon , Jang Jyongsik
Published: July 2014

An endocrine disruptor (ED) is a type of xenobiotic compound that can cause serious diseases related to the estrous cycle, as well as various types of cancer. At low ED concentrations, estrogen receptors may respond as they would under physiological conditions. In this work, aptamer‐functionalized multidimensional conducting‐polymer (3‐carboxylate polypyrrole) nanoparticles (A_M_CPPyNPs) are fabricated for use in an FET sensor to detect bisphenol A (BPA). The multidimensional system, M_CPPyNPs, is first produced by means of dual‐nozzle electrospray of pristine CPPyNPs and vapor deposition polymerization of additional conducting polymer. The M_CPPyNPs are then immobilized on an amine‐functionalized (–NH2) interdigitated‐array electrode substrate, through the formation of covalent bonds with amide groups (–CONH). The amine‐functionalized BPA‐binding aptamer is then introduced in the same way as that for M_CPPyNP immobilization. The resulting A_M_CPPyNP‐based FET sensors exhibit ultrasensitivity and selectivity towards BPA at unprecedentedly low concentrations (1 fm) and among molecules with similar structures. Additionally, due to the covalent bonding involved in the immobilization processes, a longer lifetime is expected for the FET sensor.
An Inkjet‐Printed Field‐Effect Transistor for Label‐Free Biosensing
Authors: Medina‐Sánchez Mariana , Martínez‐Domingo Carme , Ramon Eloi , Merkoçi Arben
Published: July 2014

A flexible, biological field‐effect transistor (BioFET) for use in biosensing is reported. The BioFET is based on an organic thin‐film transistor (OTFT) fabricated mainly by inkjet printing and subsequently functionalized with antibodies for protein recognition. The BioFET is assessed for label‐free detection of a model protein, human immunoglobulin G (HIgG). It is characterized electrically to evaluate the contribution of each step in the functionalization of the OTFT and to detect the presence of the target protein. The fabrication, structure, materials optimization, electrical characteristics, and functionality of the starting OTFT and final BioFET are also discussed. Different materials are evaluated for the top insulator layer, with the aim of protecting the lower layers from the electrolyte and preserving the BioFET electrical performance.
An Aluminum Triflate‐Catalyzed Intramolecular Reaction Sequence Toward Concise Construction of the Tetrahydropyrido[1,2‐a]indol‐6‐one Skeleton
Authors: Wang Jun‐Jiao , Zhou An‐Xi , Wang Gang‐Wei , Yang Shang‐Dong
Published: July 2014

An aluminum triflate‐catalyzed intramolecular reaction sequence involving protonation and Mannich‐like nucleophilic addition of indoles toward the concise construction of the tetrahydropyrido[1,2‐a]indol‐6‐one skeleton is reported. This new reaction pattern employs a carbon atom as nucleophile to form a CC bond which bears one or even two quaternary carbons and leads to the dearomatization of indoles with high atom economy.

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Diversity in the androgen receptor CAG repeat has been shaped by a multistep mutational mechanism
Authors: Santos Diana , Pimenta João , Wong Virginia CN , Amorim António , Martins Sandra
Published: July 2014

The androgen receptor (AR) gene encodes a type of nuclear receptor that functions as a steroid‐hormone activated transcription factor. In its coding region, AR includes a CAG repeat, which has been intensely studied due to the inverse correlation between repeat size and AR transcriptional activity. Several studies have reported different (CAG)n sizes associated with the risk of androgen‐linked diseases. We aimed at clarifying the mechanisms on the origin of newly CAG sized alleles through a strategy involving the analysis of the associated haplotype diversity. We genotyped 374 control individuals of European and Asian ancestry, and reconstructed the haplotypes associated with the CAG repeat, defined by 10 SNPs and 6 flanking STRs. The most powerful SNPs to tag AR lineages are rs7061037‐rs12012620 and rs34191540‐rs6625187‐rs2768578 in Europeans and Asians, respectively. In the most frequent AR lineage, (CAG)18 alleles seem to have been generated by a multistep mutation mechanism, most probably from longer alleles. We further noticed that the DXS1194‐DXS1111 haplotype, in linkage disequilibrium with AR‐(CAG)n expanded alleles responsible for spinal bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA), is rare among our controls; however, the haplotype strategy here described may be used to clarify the origin of expansions in other populations, as in future association studies. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Catalytic Asymmetric Torgov Cyclization: A Concise Total Synthesis of (+)‐Estrone
Authors: Prévost Sébastien , Dupré Nathalie , Leutzsch Markus , Wang Qinggang , Wakchaure Vijay , List Benjamin
Published: July 2014

An asymmetric Torgov cyclization, catalyzed by a novel, highly Brønsted acidic dinitro‐substituted disulfonimide, is described. The reaction delivers the Torgov diene and various analogues with excellent yields and enantioselectivity. This method was applied in a very short synthesis of (+)‐estrone.
Water‐soluble allyl and diallyl camphor sulfonamides‐based polyacrylamide copolymers for enhanced oil recovery
Authors: Gou Shaohua , Yin Ting , Ye Zhongbin , Jiang Wenchao , Yang Cheng , Xia Qiang , Wu Mingfang
Published: July 2014

The monomers N‐allyl camphor sulfonamide (CSAP) and N,N‐diallyl camphor sulfonamide (CSDAP) were copolymerized with acrylamide (AM), acrylic acid (AA) for EOR, respectively. The effect of the synthesis conditions on apparent viscosity was investigated, and the copolymers were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Increasing mass ratio of diallyl CSDAP could lead to the water‐insoluble of copolymer, and competition of free radicals could make polymerization of AM/AA/CSDAP more difficult than AM/AA/CSAP. The thickening function and temperature resistance of two copolymers were remarkably improved in comparison with similar molecular weight partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM). In addition, the pronounced temperature resistance of the copolymers has been also demonstrated by temperature resistance test. It has also found that copolymers AM/AA/CSAP and AM/AA/CSDAP brine solutions could obtain significant enhanced oil recovery at 70°C suggesting their potential being applied in chemical enhanced oil recovery. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41238.
Effect of difunctional acids on the physicochemical, thermal, and mechanical properties of polyester polyol‐based polyurethane coatings
Authors: Xu Wen , Zhou Lipan , Sun Weifu , Zhang Junrui , Tu Weiping
Published: July 2014

Polyester polyol (PP)‐based polyurethanes (PUs) consisting of two difunctional acids [1,4‐cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid (CHDA) and 1,6‐adipic acid (AA)] and also two diols [1,4‐cyclohexanedimethanol (CHDM) and 1,6‐hexanediol (HDO)] were synthesized by a two‐step procedure with a variable feed ratio of CHDA to AA but fixed ratio of CHDM and HDO. The prepared PPs and/or PUs were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy. The effects of difunctional acids on the thermal, mechanical, and dynamic mechanical thermal properties of PPs or PU films were investigated by thermogravimetry analysis, differential thermogravimetry and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis. The results show that PP exhibits a lowest viscosity with the mole fraction of CHDA and AA at 3 : 7 whereas it delivers a lowest melting point with the mole fraction at 9 : 1. After PPs being cross‐linked by isocyanate trimers, the impact resistance, shear strength and glass transition temperature increase the mixed‐acid formulations with increasing the content of CHDA. In detail, the resultant PU almost simultaneously exhibits the best mechanical and thermal properties when the mole fraction of CHDA and AA is kept constant at 9 : 1, thus giving rise to a high glass transition temperature of 56.4°C and a onset decomposition temperature of 350°C, and also delivering a balanced toughness and hardness with an impact resistance of 100 J/g and storage modulus as high as 109 Pa. This path for synthesis of PP‐based PU provides a design tool for high performance polymer coatings. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41246.
Pacific oysters, Crassostrea gigas, established in Scotland
Authors: Smith I. Philip , Guy Claire , Donnan David
Published: July 2014

A report to Scottish Natural Heritage on European flat oysters, Ostrea edulis, surviving in the Firth of Forth was investigated. No live O. edulis were found, but eight feral Pacific oysters, Crassostrea gigas, were found attached to eulittoral boulders and bedrock.

The ages of the Pacific oysters indicated an initial settlement no later than 2007 and at least two subsequent settlements, which may have been from recruitment in situ, or from repeated introductions of larvae.

The mode of introduction is unknown. There is no current aquaculture of Pacific oysters anywhere on the east coast of Scotland, but there were attempts at cultivation in the Firth of Forth which ceased more than 20 years ago. In addition, the Firth is a busy port complex and popular recreational boating area, so larvae may have been released in ballast water or have been produced by adults attached to a vessel's hull.

This is the first detailed account of adult C. gigas established on natural substrata in Scotland and raises issues in relation to biosecurity and the implementation of environmental legislation and commitments.

Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Efficient Noble‐Metal‐Free γ‐Fe2O3@NiO Core–Shell Nanostructured Photocatalysts for Water Oxidation
Authors: Du Xiaoqiang , Wei Jie , Zhao Jinli , Han Ruixin , Ding Yong
Published: July 2014

Flowerlike noble‐metal‐free γ‐Fe2O3@NiO core–shell hierarchical nanostructures have been fabricated and examined as a catalyst in the photocatalytic oxidation of water with [Ru(bpy)3](ClO4)2 as a photosensitizer and Na2S2O8 as a sacrificial electron acceptor. An apparent TOF of 0.29 μmols−1 m−2 and oxygen yield of 51 % were obtained with γ‐Fe2O3@NiO. The γ‐Fe2O3@NiO core–shell hierarchical nanostructures could be easily separated from the reaction solution whilst maintaining excellent water‐oxidation activity in the fourth and fifth runs. The surface conditions of γ‐Fe2O3@NiO also remained unchanged after the photocatalytic reaction, as confirmed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS).
Smooth Output Reconstruction for Linear Systems with Quantized Measurements
Authors: Zhu Hongzhong , Sugie Toshiharu , Fujimoto Hiroshi
Published: July 2014

This paper presents a novel approach to reconstruct the output of linear systems in the case where the measured output is uniformly quantized. By fitting the quantized measurements with polynomials in a moving horizon manner, a smooth signal is reconstructed by solving a convex optimization problem with ℓ1‐norm regularization. The quantization feature and the system models are taken into account in the optimization. A numerical example is given to show the excellent reconstruction performance of the proposed method. In addition, the proposed method is implemented in a high‐precision linear stage through DSP, and its effectiveness is verified through experiments using a real positioning system.
Chaotic Analysis and Control of Longitudinal Flight Dynamics
Authors: Su Lei , Yao Hong , Du Jun
Published: July 2014

Aircraft are considered to be sub‐stable within the flight envelope. This paper presents a chaotic analysis and two kinds of corresponding control methods of aircraft longitudinal flight dynamics. First, the chaotic behavior of the open loop longitudinal flight system is confirmed by the Poincaré section and the Lyapunov exponent. Studies have found that the flight envelope can be divided into a stable area and a sub‐stable area. The probability of instability caused by chaos exists in the sub‐stable area. The definition of the chaotic boundary is also given. Second, based on the chaotic analysis results and considering three different combinations of aircraft mass and elevator deflection, a linear feedback control (LFC) method is implemented to stabilize the chaotic boundary and enlarge the stable area. Third, taking system uncertainties into consideration, an adaptive backstepping sliding mode control (AB‐SMC) method is applied to the trajectory tracking problem of aircraft longitudinal motion, which is based on classic SMC, backstepping and dynamic surface methods. The numerical simulations are given, which can demonstrate the applicability of the proposed control methods.
A unique noninvasive approach to monitoring dissolved O2 and CO2 in cell culture
Authors: Chatterjee Madhubanti , Ge Xudong , Uplekar Shaunak , Kostov Yordan , Croucher Leah , Pilli Manohar , Rao Govind
Published: July 2014

Although online monitoring of dissolved oxygen (DO) and carbon dioxide (DCO2) is highly desirable in bioprocesses, small‐scale bioreactors are usually not monitored due to the lack of suitable sensors. Traditional electrochemical sensors are usually not used because they are bulky and invasive. Disposable optical sensors are small and only partially invasive, but there are concerns regarding the toxicity of the patch and the phototoxicity of the illuminating light. Here we present a novel, noninvasive, rate‐based technique for monitoring DO and DCO2 in cell cultures. A silicone sampling loop which allowed the diffusion of O2 and CO2 through its wall was inserted inside a bioreactor, and then flushed with N2 until the CO2 and O2 inside the loop were completely removed. The gas inside the loop was then allowed to recirculate through gas impermeable tubing to the O2 and CO2 sensors. We have shown that by measuring the initial diffusion rate we were able to determine the partial pressures of the two gases in the culture. The technique could be readily automated and measurements could be made in minutes. It was tested in demonstration experiments by growing murine hybridoma cells in a T‐flask and a spinner‐flask at 37°C. The results were comparable to those measured with commercially available fluorescence‐based patch sensors. These results show that the rate‐based method is an effective way to monitor small‐scale cell cultures. This measurement mechanism can be easily built into disposable cell culture vessels for facile use. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2015;112: 104–110. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Adaptation of Tri‐molecular fluorescence complementation allows assaying of regulatory Csr RNA‐protein interactions in bacteria
Authors: Gelderman Grant , Sivakumar Anusha , Lipp Sarah , Contreras Lydia
Published: July 2014

sRNAs play a significant role in controlling and regulating cellular metabolism. One of the more interesting aspects of certain sRNAs is their ability to make global changes in the cell by interacting with regulatory proteins. In this work, we demonstrate the use of an in vivo Tri‐molecular Fluorescence Complementation assay to detect and visualize the central regulatory sRNA–protein interaction of the Carbon Storage Regulatory system in E. coli. The Carbon Storage Regulator consists primarily of an RNA binding protein, CsrA, that alters the activity of mRNA targets and of an sRNA, CsrB, that modulates the activity of CsrA. We describe the construction of a fluorescence complementation system that detects the interactions between CsrB and CsrA. Additionally, we demonstrate that the intensity of the fluorescence of this system is able to detect changes in the affinity of the CsrB–CsrA interaction, as caused by mutations in the protein sequence of CsrA. While previous methods have adopted this technique to study mRNA or RNA localization, this is the first attempt to use this technique to study the sRNA–protein interaction directly in bacteria. This method presents a potentially powerful tool to study complex bacterial RNA protein interactions in vivo. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2015;112: 365–375. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Optimization and scale‐up of oligonucleotide synthesis in packed bed reactors using computational fluid dynamics modeling
Authors: Wolfrum Christian , Josten Andre , Götz Peter
Published: July 2014

A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model for the analysis of oligonucleotide synthesis in packed bed reactors was developed and used to optimize the scale up of the process. The model includes reaction kinetics data obtained under well defined conditions comparable to the situation in the packed bed. The model was validated in terms of flow conditions and reaction kinetics by comparison with experimental data. Experimental validation and the following model parameter studies by simulation were performed on the basis of a column with 0.3 g oligonucleotide capacity. The scale‐up studies based on CFD modelling were calculated on a 440 g scale (oligonucleotide capacity). © 2014 American Institute of Chemical EngineersBiotechnol. Prog., 30:1048–1056, 2014
Significant Enhancement of hPrx1 Chaperone Activity through Lysine Acetylation
Authors: Pan Yanchao , Jin Jing‐Hua , Yu Yang , Wang Jiangyun
Published: July 2014

The reversible acetylation of proteins plays a key role in regulating biological processes, including chromatin remodeling, progression of the cell cycle, and actin nucleation. Human peroxiredoxin 1(hPrx1), one of the most abundant proteins in the cytoplasm, has been shown to be acetylated in human liver‐carcinoma tissues. However, little is known about what function(s) the acetylation serves for hPrx1. Herein, using the method of genetic code expansion, we incorporated Nε‐acetyllysine (AcK) site‐specifically into hPrx1. Our data showed that acetylation the K27 residue promotes oligomerization of hPrx1 at low concentrations. In addition, K27‐acetylated hPrx1(hPrx1‐AcK27) exhibited greatly enhanced chaperone activity (e.g. protecting the protein malate dehydrogenase (MDH) from thermally induced aggregation and assisting the refolding of denatured citrate synthase (CS)). These findings suggest that the site‐specific acetylation of hPrx1 may change its biological role in response to environmental changes.
RIG‐I knockdown impedes neurogenesis in a murine model of Japanese encephalitis
Authors: Mukherjee Sriparna , Ghosh Sourish , Nazmi Arshed , Basu Anirban
Published: July 2014

Retinoic acid inducible gene I (RIG‐I) is a well established pattern recognition receptor (PRR) in neurons infected with Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) as reported previously from our laboratory. Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus infection in brain has been shown to decrease the proliferation of neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs) which has its implications in neurological sequelae in JE survivors. We have found that ablation of RIG‐I both in vivo and in vitro models results in significant decrease in NSPC proliferation post JEV infection. We hypothesize that knockdown of RIG‐I diminishes the expression of antiviral molecules resulting in an increase in viral replication, which in turn results in enhancement of the expression of cell cycle inhibitors, hence affecting the proliferation of NSPCs.
Knockdown of CUG‐binding protein 1 induces apoptosis of human laryngeal cancer cells
Authors: Zhou Yi , Ma Hongzhi , Fang Jugao , Lian Meng , Feng Ling , Wang Ru
Published: July 2014

To investigate the role of CUG‐binding protein 1 (CUGBP1) in human laryngeal cancer, we employed lentivirus‐mediated short hairpin RNA (shRNA) to knockdown CUGBP1 expression in Hep‐2 cells. Depletion of CUGBP1 remarkably inhibited the proliferation of Hep‐2 cells. CUGBP1 knockdown induced cell cycle arrest in S phase, especially in the sub‐G1 phase, representing apoptotic cells. Knockdown of CUGBP1 in Hep‐2 cells markedly increased the expression of LIP and cleavage of PARP, which could contribute to apoptosis. Thus CUGBP1 has a critical role in modulating cell growth and apoptosis, and serves as a potential therapeutic target in laryngeal cancer.
Bubble Formation at Variously Inclined Nozzles
Authors: Scargiali Francesca , Busciglio Antonio , Grisafi Franco , Brucato Alberto
Published: July 2014

Bubble formation at variously inclined submerged nozzles, fed with a continuous gas flow rate, is investigated. The average liquid velocity induced by bubble motion is determined, leading to a simple correlation for estimation of the liquid velocities induced by the repeated passage of bubbles. An effective model for the prediction of bubble sizes at their detachment from vertical nozzle orifices is presented which encompasses a bound expansion stage, followed by an accelerated expansion phase, and ends by an original bubble detachment criterion. The existence of a liquid‐phase effective entrainment velocity, generated by the continuous passage of the bubble stream, is quantified and included in the model. Model predictions are found to correlate well with experimental and literature data.
The Influence of Anion–Cation Combinations on the Physicochemical Properties of Advanced Electrolytes for Supercapacitors and the Capacitance of Activated Carbons
Authors: Pohlmann Sebastian , Kühnel Ruben‐Simon , Centeno Teresa A. , Balducci Andrea
Published: July 2014

This work represents a systematic study of four conductive salts and their influence on the physicochemical properties of propylene‐carbonate‐based electrolytes for electrochemical double‐layer capacitors (EDLCs). State‐of‐the‐art tetraethylammonium tetrafluoroborate is compared with tetraethylammonium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide, N‐butyl‐N‐methylpyrrolidinium tetrafluoroborate, and N‐butyl‐N‐methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide. By applying these salts, operating voltages of up to 3.5 V can be achieved while retaining a high performance. Furthermore, the influence of the conductive salts on the carbon–electrolyte interface is studied by comparing the electrochemical performance of five commercial porous carbons in the respective electrolytes. The choice of conductive salt has a great influence on the electrochemical performance and maximum operating voltage of an EDLC system, as well as on the specific capacitance of the chosen carbon material; this makes the choice of both materials crucial for successful EDLC design.
Biotemplated Palladium Catalysts Can Be Stabilized on Different Support Materials
Authors: Yates Matthew D. , Logan Bruce E.
Published: July 2014

Sustainably biotemplated palladium catalysts generated on different carbon‐based support materials are examined for durability under electrochemical (oxidative) and mechanical‐stress conditions. Biotemplated catalysts on carbon paper under both stresses retain 95 % (at 0.6 V) of the initial catalytic activity as opposed to 70 % for carbon cloth and 60 % for graphite. Graphite electrodes retain 95 % of initial catalytic activity under a single stress. Using electrodeposited polyaniline (PANI) and polydimethylsiloxane binder increases the current density after the stress tests by 22 %, as opposed to a 30 % decrease for Nafion. PANI‐coated electrodes retain more activity than carbon‐paper electrodes under elevated mechanical (94 versus 70 %) or increased oxidative (175 versus 62 %) stress. Biotemplated catalytic electrodes may be useful alternatives to synthetically produce catalysts for some electrochemical applications.
Performance characteristics of screening strategies for Lynch syndrome in unselected women with newly diagnosed endometrial cancer who have undergone universal germline mutation testing
Authors: Ferguson Sarah E. , Aronson Melyssa , Pollett Aaron , Eiriksson Lua R. , Oza Amit M. , Gallinger Steven , Lerner‐Ellis Jordan , Alvandi Zahra , Bernardini Marcus Q. , MacKay Helen J. , Mojtahedi Golnessa , Tone Alicia A. , Massey Christine , Clarke Blaise A.
Published: July 2014

BACKGROUND

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) for mismatch repair protein expression, microsatellite instability (MSI) testing, tumor morphology, and family history were compared to determine which screening strategy is superior in identifying Lynch syndrome (LS) in unselected women with newly diagnosed endometrial cancer (EC) who have undergone universal germline mutation testing.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study was performed that recruited women with newly diagnosed EC. Participants completed a family history assessment with molecular characterization of EC with IHC and MSI testing and EC assessment for LS‐associated morphologic features and underwent universal germline mutation testing for mutations in the mismatch repair pathway. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were compared between the screening strategies.

RESULTS

A total of 118 (65%) of 182 consecutive women with EC participated. Of these, 34 women (29%) had tumors that were IHC deficient and 27 women (23%; N = 117) had tumors that were positive for MSI. Twenty women (17%) met IHC criteria and 16 women (15.2%, N = 105) met family history criteria based on Ontario Ministry of Health Criteria for the genetic assessment for LS. Seven women (5.9%) had a germline mutation: 4 had MLH1 (mutL homolog 1), 2 had MSH6 (mutS homolog 6), and 1 had MSH2 (mutS homolog 2). IHC in women aged <60 years had the best performance characteristics, with a sensitivity of 100%, a specificity of 86.1%, a positive predictive value of 58.3%, and a negative predictive value of 100%. Family history and tumor morphology both had the lowest sensitivity at 71.4%. Overall tumor morphology had the poorest performance, with a specificity of 42.1%.

CONCLUSIONS

The mutation rate of 5.9% was higher than expected in this unselected cohort of women with EC. The superior screening strategy to identify women presenting with EC is universal IHC screening in women aged <60 years. Cancer 2014;;120:3932–3939. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Prognostic significance of treatment‐induced pathologic necrosis in extremity and truncal soft tissue sarcoma after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Mullen John T. , Hornicek Francis J. , Harmon David C. , Raskin Kevin A. , Chen Yen‐Lin , Szymonifka Jackie , Yeap Beow Y. , Choy Edwin , DeLaney Thomas F. , Nielsen G. Petur
Published: July 2014

BACKGROUND

Histologic response to chemotherapy has been shown to be an independent prognostic factor in patients with osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma. However, in patients with soft tissue sarcoma (STS), the prognostic impact of histologic response to chemotherapy is less clear. In the current study, the authors sought to determine the prognostic significance of treatment‐induced pathologic necrosis in patients receiving neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy for STS.

METHODS

Between 1989 and 2011, a total of 113 patients with grade 2 or 3 (graded according to the National Cancer Institute grading system using 3 tiers) extremity or truncal STS were identified who received neoadjuvant interdigitated chemoradiotherapy according to protocol followed by surgery. The extent of tumor necrosis in the resected specimens was quantified and correlated with outcome.

RESULTS

The median tumor necrosis rate was 90%, and 103 patients (91%) received all 3 cycles of planned neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The likelihood of achieving ≥95% necrosis was not related to the number of preoperative cycles of chemotherapy received but was found to be related to tumor histology (62% for malignant fibrous histiocytoma vs 0% for synovial sarcoma [P<.001]; 56% for myxoid liposarcoma vs 0% for synovial sarcoma [P = .002]). At a median follow‐up of 6 years, there were no statistically significant differences noted in the 5‐year local control, disease‐specific survival, and overall survival rates for patients with ≥95% necrosis (50 patients; 44%) and <95% necrosis (63 patients; 56%), even when stratifying by histology.

CONCLUSIONS

In a homogeneous population of patients with high‐grade extremity and truncal STS who were treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, the extent of pathologic tumor necrosis did not correlate with outcome. Cancer 2014;120:3676–3682. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration of a posterior neck dedifferentiated liposarcoma with MDM2 fluorescence in situ hybridization performed on a Pap‐stained smear
Authors: Zreik Riyam , Soyalp Krystal , Ruiz Steve , Ward Russell , Dobin Sheila , Chen Xiangbai , Liu Lina , Rao Arundhati
Published: July 2014

Head and neck liposarcomas, while rare, tend to be subcutaneous and well‐differentiated. Dedifferentiated liposarcomas of the head and neck are exceedingly rare in the literature. We present a case of a dedifferentiated liposarcoma arising in the soft tissue of the posterior neck of an 86‐year‐old man and diagnosed by fine‐needle aspiration. Aspirate smears showed a dual population of atypical lipomatous and spindled cells. MDM2 (murine double minute 2) amplification was demonstrated on a Pap‐stained smear using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of MDM2 FISH amplification in a liposarcoma performed on an aspirate smear. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2015;43:320–324. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Is metformin ready for prime time in pregnancy? Probably not yet
Authors: Fantus I. George
Published: July 2014

Metformin is one of the most commonly used drugs to treat type 2 diabetes and is safe and effective. Its main mechanism of action is thought to be the activation of AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) via inhibition of mitochondrial ATP generation. Recent use of metformin as an ‘insulin sensitizer’ in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome to increase fertility has been successful and resulted in the chance observation that continued use during pregnancy appeared to be safe. There are few studies of metformin in animal models of diabetic pregnancy. However, some data have implicated fetal AMPK activation in neural tube defects. While a recent report suggests that metformin may not activate fetal AMPK, which is reassuring, studies in pregnant woman with gestational diabetes and type 2 diabetes, which are ongoing, require completion before we can conclude that its use in pregnancy is safe. Furthermore, follow‐up of the offspring will be critical to determine whether such treatment decreases or increases the development of obesity and diabetes. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Malignant effects of multiple rare variants in sarcomere genes on the prognosis of patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Wang Jizheng , Wang Yilu , Zou Yubao , Sun Kai , Wang Zhimin , Ding Hu , Yuan Jinqing , Wei Wei , Hou Qing , Wang Hu , Liu Xuan , Zhang Hongju , Ji Yun , Zhou Xianliang , Sharma Ravi K. , Wang Daowen , Ahmad Ferhaan , Hui Rutai , Song Lei
Published: July 2014

Aims

Although genetic testing has been recommended in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in current clinical practice, its utility in prognostic prediction remains to be ascertained. We assessed the dosage effect of rare variants in sarcomere genes on the long‐term outcomes of HCM.

Methods and results

A total of 529 unrelated HCM patients were prospectively recruited and followed for 4.7 ± 3.2 years. Eight sarcomere genes were screened with targeted resequencing and identified variants were validated through Sanger sequencing. After polymorphisms and likely neutral rare variants were excluded, the patients were segregated into three groups based on the dosage of rare variants: no rare variant, a single rare variant, and multiple rare variants. Multiple rare variants were identified in 7.2% (38/529) of the study patients. Patients with multiple rare variants were younger at diagnosis, and had greater maximum LV wall thicknesses and larger left atria. The risk for cardiovascular death in patients with multiple rare variants was higher than in those without rare variants (P = 10−5) or in those with a single rare variant (P = 2 × 10−5). Multivariable analysis revealed that multiple rare variants were a risk factor for cardiovascular death [hazard ratio (HR) 3.74, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.84–7.58, P = 0.0003], as well as sudden cardiac death (HR 3.57, 95% CI 1.23–10.35, P = 0.019) and heart failure‐related death (HR 4.62, 95% CI 1.67–12.76, P = 0.003).

Conclusions

The presence of multiple rare variants in sarcomere genes is a risk factor for malignant outcomes in HCM, and may be appropriate to consider as a criterion in the risk stratification of HCM patients.
Dispositional optimism, optimism priming, and prevention of ego depletion
Authors: In Den Bosch‐Meevissen Yvo M. C. , Peters Madelon L. , Alberts Hugo J. E. M.
Published: July 2014

Exerting self‐control leads to a diminished capacity to carry out successive acts of self‐control, a process termed ego depletion. The present study investigated whether dispositional optimism, priming of an optimistic orientation, or their interaction can counteract the ego depletion effect. A total of 160 participants performed a self‐control‐demanding weight‐lifting task on two occasions. Half of the participants were depleted between the two weight‐lifting tasks. Because depletion of self‐regulatory resources can undermine optimism half of the participants in the depletion, and no‐depletion condition were primed for an optimistic orientation before performing the second self‐control task. Results demonstrated an interaction between dispositional optimism and optimism priming. Only in participants high in dispositional optimism did the optimism prime lead to undiminished persistence on the weight‐lifting task. These results demonstrate that dispositional optimism may lead to improved goal persistence in the face of adversity only under conditions in which optimistic schemas are activated. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimization and validation of a novel CE method for the enantioseparation of pantoprazole and related benzimididazole using a dual chiral selector system
Authors: Guan Jin , Li Huan , Yan Feng , Shi Shuang , Wang Shilin
Published: July 2014

A novel CE method was successfully applied to the enantioseparation of pantoprazole and related benzimidazoles, such as tenatoprazole, lansoprazole, and omeprazole. The chiral resolution was performed in an untreated fused‐sillica capillary using a dual chiral selector system consisting of copper (II)‐l‐histidine (l‐His) complex and hydroxypropyl‐β‐CD. The primary factors affecting its separation efficiency, such as chiral selector, buffer pH, and applied voltage, were optimized. The best results were obtained by using a buffer consisting of 20 mg/mL hydroxypropyl‐β‐CD, 10 mmol/L copper(II) acetate, 15 mmol/L l‐histidine, 5.0 mmol/L phosphate adjusted to pH 5.0, and 15 kV applied voltage. The enantiomers of all compounds were fully resolved within 20 min with high resolutions of 3.9 to 6.2. The optimized method was extensively validated for determination of the R‐(+)‐enantiomer impurity in S‐(–)‐pantoprazole. The LOD and LOQ for the R‐(+)‐enantiomer were 1.0 and 2.5 μg/mL, respectively. A good linear relationship was obtained in the concentration range of 2.5–25 μg/mL with r2 0.999 for the R‐(+)‐enantiomer. The percentage recovery of the R‐(+)‐enantiomer ranged from 91.6 to 101.3. The method is capable of determining a minimum limit of 0.1% w/w of R‐(+)‐enantiomer in S‐(–)‐pantoprazole bulk samples.