bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling human osteosarcoma in mice through 3AB‐OS cancer stem cell xenografts
Authors: Di Fiore Riccardo , Guercio Annalisa , Puleio Roberto , Di Marco Patrizia , Drago‐Ferrante Rosa , D'Anneo Antonella , De Blasio Anna , Carlisi Daniela , Di Bella Santina , Pentimalli Francesca , Forte Iris M. , Giordano Antonio , Tesoriere Giovanni , Vento Renza
Published: June 2012

Osteosarcoma is the second leading cause of cancer‐related death for children and young adults. In this study, we have subcutaneously injected—with and without matrigel—athymic mice (Fox1nu/nu) with human osteosarcoma 3AB‐OS pluripotent cancer stem cells (CSCs), which we previously isolated from human osteosarcoma MG63 cells. Engrafted 3AB‐OS cells were highly tumorigenic and matrigel greatly accelerated both tumor engraftment and growth rate. 3AB‐OS CSC xenografts lacked crucial regulators of beta‐catenin levels (E‐cadherin, APC, and GSK‐3beta), and crucial factors to restrain proliferation, resulting therefore in a strong proliferation potential. During the first weeks of engraftment 3AB‐OS‐derived tumors expressed high levels of pAKT, beta1‐integrin and pFAK, nuclear beta‐catenin, c‐Myc, cyclin D2, along with high levels of hyperphosphorylated‐inactive pRb and anti‐apoptotic proteins such as Bcl‐2 and XIAP, and matrigel increased the expression of proliferative markers. Thereafter 3AB‐OS tumor xenografts obtained with matrigel co‐injection showed decreased proliferative potential and AKT levels, and undetectable hyperphosphorylated pRb, whereas beta1‐integrin and pFAK levels still increased. Engrafted tumor cells also showed multilineage commitment with matrigel particularly favoring the mesenchymal lineage. Concomitantly, many blood vessels and muscle fibers appeared in the tumor mass. Our findings suggest that matrigel might regulate 3AB‐OS cell behavior providing adequate cues for transducing proliferation and differentiation signals triggered by pAKT, beta1‐integrin, and pFAK and addressed by pRb protein. Our results provide for the first time a mouse model that recapitulates in vivo crucial features of human osteosarcoma CSCs that could be used to test and predict the efficacy in vivo of novel therapeutic treatments. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 3380–3392, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
nMoldyn 3: Using task farming for a parallel spectroscopy‐oriented analysis of molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Hinsen Konrad , Pellegrini Eric , Stachura Sławomir , Kneller Gerald R.
Published: June 2012

We present a new version of the program packagenMoldyn, which has been originally developed for a neutron‐scattering oriented analysis of molecular dynamics simulations of macromolecular systems (Kneller et al., Comput. Phys. Commun. 1995, 91, 191) and was later rewritten to include in‐depth time series analyses and a graphical user interface (Rog et al., J. Comput. Chem. 2003, 24, 657). The main improvement in this new version and the focus of this article are the parallelization of all the analysis algorithms for use on multicore desktop computers as well as distributed‐memory computing clusters. The parallelization is based on a task farming approach which maintains a simple program structure permitting easy modification and extension of the code to integrate new analysis methods. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Study on Determination of Trace Nickel in Water Samples after Separation/enrichment using Microcrystalline Phenolphthalein Loaded with Chelate
Authors: Wen Xin‐Rong , Tu Chang‐Qing
Published: June 2012

The paper presents a novel method for the separation/enrichment of trace Ni2+ using microcrystalline phenolphthalein loaded with chelate prior to the determination by spectrophotometry. The effects of different parameters, such as the dosages of phenolphthalein and sodium diethyldithiocarbamate (DDTC), various salts and acidity on the enrichment yield of Ni2+ have been investigated to select the experimental conditions. The possible enrichment mechanism of Ni2+ was discussed. The results showed that under the optimum conditions, Ni2+ could be quantificationally adsorbed on the surface of microcrystalline phenolphthalein in the form of the chelate precipitate of Ni(DDTC)2, while K+, Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Zn2+, Fe2+, Al2+, Pb2+ and Cd2+ could not be adsorbed at all. Therefore, Ni2+ was completely separated from the above metal ions in the solution. A new method for the separation/enrichment and determination of trace nickel using microcrystalline phenolphthalein loaded with chelate was established. The proposed method has been successfully applied to the determination of Ni2+ in various water samples, and the results agreed well with those obtained by FAAS method.
Structural Studies for Specific Binding Capacity of β‐Cyclodextrin with Ibuprofen
Authors: Liu Wei , Zhang Yong , Zhao Bing
Published: June 2012

Ibuprofen (Ibu) and β‐cyclodextrin (βCD) and its derivative (hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin, HPβCD) complexes spatial geometry information were studyed. Firstly, phase solubility experiment was carried out for S‐(+)‐ibuprofen (SIbu) and cyclodextrins complex. The apparent stability constant (Kc) for 1:1 complexes are 1065 M‐1 (βCD) and 1476 M‐1 (HPβCD) respectively. Secondly, 1H NMR and two‐dimensional rotating‐frame overhauser effect spectroscopy (2D ROESY) were used for binding study, and confirmed that benzene ring of Ibu is deeply included into the cavity and racemic Ibu (RSIbu) can be discriminated by βCD or HPβCD. Finally, docking model was given by theoretical investigation. The model with ‐4.77 kcal/mol binding energy matches experimental structure.
Homeodomain‐interacting protein kinase2 in human idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Ricci Alberto , Cherubini Emanuela , Ulivieri Alessandra , Lavra Luca , Sciacchitano Salvatore , Scozzi Davide , Mancini Rita , Ciliberto Gennaro , Bartolazzi Armando , Bruno Pierdonato , Graziano Paolo , Mariotta Salvatore
Published: June 2012

Homeodomain‐interacting protein kinase 2 (Hipk2) is an emerging player in cell response to genotoxic agents that contributes to the cell's decision between cell cycle arrest or apoptosis. HIPK2 acts as co‐regulator of an increasing number of transcription factors and modulates many different basic cellular processes such as apoptosis, proliferation, DNA damage response, differentiation. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is characterized by an anatomical disarrangement of the lung due to fibroblast proliferation, extracellular matrix deposition and lung function impairment. Although the role of inflammation is still debated, attention has been focused on lung cell functions as fibroblast phenotype and activity. Aim of the present study was to analyze the loss of heterozygosity (LOH) at HIPK2 locus 7q32.34 in human lung fibroblasts and the HIPK2 expression in 15 IPF samples and in four primary fibroblast cell cultures isolated from IPF biopsies using semi‐quantitative RT‐PCR, Western blots and immunohistochemistry. We demonstrated a frequency of LOH in IPF fibroblasts of 46% for the internal D7S6440 microsatellite and 26.6% for the external D7S2468 microsatellite. Furthermore, we demonstrated low HIPK2 protein expression in those fibroblasts from IPF patients that present the HIPK2 LOH. The restoration of HIPK2 expression in IPF derived cells induced a significant reduction of chemoresistance after treatment with cisplatin. The results obtained allow us to hypothesize that HIPK2 dysfunction may play a role in fibroblasts behavior and in IPF pathogenesis. HIPK2 may be considered as a novel potential target for anti‐fibrosis therapy. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 235–241, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Peritraumatic distress: Its relationship to posttraumatic stress and complicated grief symptoms in sudden death survivors
Authors: Hargrave Petrina A. , Leathem Janet M. , Long Nigel R.
Published: June 2012

Although sudden death has been linked to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), its role in complicated grief (CG) and sudden death survivors is unknown. This questionnaire study investigated the role of peritraumatic distress in PTSD and CG symptoms in adults (n = 125) an average of 28.37 months (SD = 3.12) after a loved one's sudden death. The Peritraumatic Distress Inventory, Impact of Event Scale‐Revised, and Inventory of Complicated Grief were administered to assess symptoms of peritraumatic distress, PTSD, and CG, respectively. Peritraumatic distress was the strongest correlate of both PTSD (β = .42, p < .001) and CG (β = .39, p < .001) symptoms, in a model containing current distress (Hopkins Symptom Checklist‐21). Peritraumatic distress may be a key mechanism in the development of both PTSD and CG, therefore suddenly bereaved individuals reporting higher peritraumatic distress may be at risk of both adverse trauma and grief reactions.
Synthesis of α,ω‐Isocyanate–Telechelic Poly(methyl methacrylate)
Authors: Greving Nebia , Keul Helmut , Millaruelo Marta , Weberskirch Ralf , Moeller Martin
Published: June 2012

The preparation of α,ω‐isocyanate–telechelic poly(methyl methacrylate) using RAFT polymerization and two postpolymerization modification steps is presented. The synthetic strategy includes the RAFT polymerization of methyl methacrylate, which results in a hetero telechelic polymer. In the first modification step by radical exchange, a carboxylic acid homo telechelic PMMA was successfully prepared. Second, the carboxylic acid end groups are reacted with hexamethylene diisocyanate in excess and magnesium chloride as a catalyst. Under mild reaction conditions (80 °C, 4 h), the isocyanate homo telechelic PMMA is obtained. A conversion of 86% of the carboxylic acid end groups was achieved.
Kontinuierlich produzieren
Authors: Bauer Tobias
Published: June 2012

Strömungschemische Verfahren dienen zunehmend der Erforschung von Synthesewegen. Insbesondere mikrofluidische Apparate und Bauteile, die bei höheren Temperaturen und Drucken betrieben werden und mit schneller Messtechnik ausgestattet sind, geben umfangreiche Informationen über den Syntheseweg.
Die Metallabscheider
Authors: Jordan Manfred , Dietterle Michael
Published: June 2012

Die Galvanotechnik ist als relativ kleine Branche in der Öffentlichkeit nicht so präsent, wie es ihrer Bedeutung als Schlüsseltechnologie für viele Industriezweige angemessen wäre. In der Wertschöpfungskette nimmt sie eine wichtige Position ein.
Mit Gallium‐68 in ein neues Zeitalter?
Authors: Notni Johannes
Published: June 2012

Positronenemissionstomographie mit Gallium‐68 könnte zu einer wichtigen Alternative zur γ‐Szintigraphie mit Technetium‐99m avancieren.
Biotech erwartet stärkeres Bekenntnis der Politik
Authors: Bengs Holger
Published: June 2012

Der deutschen Biotechindustrie geht es den Umständen entsprechend gut. Ob es für den großen internationalen Sprung reicht, ist unsicher. Politiker sind gefordert, endlich die Rahmenbedingungen für kleine und mittlere Unternehmen angemessen zu verbessern.
Die Trends in der Prozessindustrie
Authors: Graf Katharina
Published: June 2012

Ende Juni findet in Frankfurt am Main die 30. Achema statt. In Ausstellung, Kongress und Sonderveranstaltungen findet der Besucher Produkte, Dienstleistungen und Informationen rund um die Prozessindustrie. Neue Schwerpunkte sind Energiespeicherung und ‐nutzung sowie Bioökonomie.
Regularized integral equations and fast high‐order solvers for sound‐hard acoustic scattering problems
Authors: Bruno Oscar , Elling Tim , Turc Catalin
Published: June 2012

This text introduces the following: (1) new regularized combined field integral equations (CFIE‐R) for frequency‐domain sound‐hard scattering problems; and (2) fast, high‐order algorithms for the numerical solution of the CFIE‐R and related integral equations. Similar to the classical combined field integral equation (CFIE), the CFIE‐R are uniquely‐solvable integral equations based on the use of single and double layer potentials. Unlike the CFIE, however, the CFIE‐R utilize a composition of the double‐layer potential with a regularizing operator that gives rise to highly favorable spectral properties—thus making it possible to produce accurate solutions by means of iterative solvers in small numbers of iterations. The CFIE‐R‐based fast high‐order integral algorithms introduced in this text enable highly accurate solution of challenging sound‐hard scattering problems, including hundred‐wavelength cases, in single‐processor runs on present‐day desktop computers. A variety of numerical results demonstrate the qualities of the numerical solvers as well as the advantages that arise from the new integral equation formulation. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermal degradation and fire performance of intumescent silicone‐based coatings
Authors: Gardelle B. , Duquesne S. , Rerat V. , Bourbigot S.
Published: June 2012

This paper deals with the thermal degradation and fire performance of silicone‐based coatings for protecting steel. In this study, the fire performance of silicone coatings as virgin or formulated materials is evaluated using two homemade fire testing methodologies: one similar to the “torch test” fire testing method and the other using a heat radiator test. It was shown that the performance of the silicone‐based coating used as thermal barrier can be improved incorporating a modifier (a mixture of polydimethylsiloxane and silica coated by a silane). In this case, silicone‐based coating swells and exhibits same fire performance as commercial intumescent coating at the torch test. It is shown that the incorporation of modifier in the silicone makes it to swell upon heating resulting in the formation of expanded material exhibiting low heat conductivity. Thermal degradation of the coating is also investigated: it occurs in three main steps leading to the formation of a tridimensional network characterized by the formation of Q4 structure at high temperature. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Terms used in patient safety related to medication: a literature review
Authors: Pintor‐Mármol Antonio , Baena María Isabel , Fajardo Paloma C. , Sabater‐Hernández Daniel , Sáez‐Benito Loreto , García‐Cárdenas María Victoria , Fikri‐Benbrahim Narjis , Azpilicueta Inés , Faus Maria José
Published: June 2012

Purpose

There is a lack of homogeneity in the terminology used in the context of patient safety related to medication. The aim of this review was to identify the terms and definitions used in patient safety related to medication within the scientific literature.

Methods

Original and review articles that were indexed between 1998 and 2008 in MEDLINE and EMBASE and contained terms used in patient safety related to medication were included. Terms and definitions were extracted and categorised according to whether its definition referred to the process of medication use, or to the clinical outcome of medication use, or both.

Results

Of 2564 articles, 147 were included. Sixty terms used in patient safety related to medication with 189 different definitions were identified. Among terms that referred only to the process of medication use (n = 23), medication error provided the greatest number of definitions (n = 29). Among terms that referred only to the clinical outcome of medication use (n = 31), adverse drug event provided the greatest number of definitions (n = 15). Finally, among terms that referred both to the process of use and to the clinical outcome of medication use (n = 13), drug‐related problem provided the greatest number of definitions (n = 7).

Conclusions

A multitude of terms and definitions are used in patient safety related to medication. This heterogeneity makes it difficult to compare the results among studies and to appreciate the true magnitude of the problem. Classifying and unifying the terminology is necessary to advance in patient safety strategies. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adaptive response to acetic acid in the highly resistant yeast species Zygosaccharomyces bailii revealed by quantitative proteomics
Authors: Guerreiro Joana F. , Mira Nuno P. , Sá‐Correia Isabel
Published: June 2012

Zygosaccharomyces bailii is the most tolerant yeast species to acetic acid‐induced toxicity, being able to grow in the presence of concentrations of this food preservative close to the legal limits. For this reason, Z. bailii is the most important microbial contaminant of acidic food products but the mechanisms behind this intrinsic resistance to acetic acid are very poorly characterized. To gain insights into the adaptive response and tolerance to acetic acid in Z. bailii, we explored an expression proteomics approach, based on quantitative 2DE, to identify alterations occurring in the protein content in response to sudden exposure or balanced growth in the presence of an inhibitory but nonlethal concentration of this weak acid. A coordinate increase in the content of proteins involved in cellular metabolism, in particular, in carbohydrate metabolism (Mdh1p, Aco1p, Cit1p, Idh2p, and Lpd1p) and energy generation (Atp1p and Atp2p), as well as in general and oxidative stress response (Sod2p, Dak2p, Omp2p) was registered. Results reinforce the concept that glucose and acetic acid are coconsumed in Z. bailii, with acetate being channeled into the tricarboxylic acid cycle. When acetic acid is the sole carbon source, results suggest the activation of gluconeogenic and pentose phosphate pathways, based on the increased content of several proteins of these pathways after glucose exhaustion.
Techniques for characterization of charge carrier mobility in organic semiconductors
Authors: Kokil Akshay , Yang Ke , Kumar Jayant
Published: June 2012

The charge transport characteristics of organic semiconductors are one of the key attributes that impacts the performance of organic electronic and optoelectronic devices in which they are utilized. For improved performance in organic photovoltaic cells, light‐emitting diodes, and field‐effect transistors (FETs), efficient transport of the charge carriers within the organic semiconductor is especially critical. Characterization of charge transport in these organic semiconductors is important both from scientific and technological perspectives. In this review, we shall mainly discuss the techniques for measuring the charge carrier mobility and not the theoretical underpinnings of the mechanism of charge transport. Mobility measurements in organic semiconductors and particularly in conjugated polymers, using space‐charge‐limited current, time of flight, carrier extraction by linearly increasing voltage, double injection, FETs, and impedance spectroscopy are discussed. The relative merits, as well as limitations for each of these techniques are reviewed. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2012
Does Internal Migration in Northern Ireland Increase Religious and Social Segregation? Perspectives from the Northern Ireland Longitudinal Study (NILS) 2001–2007
Authors: Shuttleworth Ian , Barr Paul James , Gould Myles
Published: June 2012

Internal migration, because of its selectivity, has been recognised in Britain, Europe, and the USA as a major influence on geographical patterns of ethnic and social segregation. Despite this, and despite its history of communal division, plus accounts which have emphasised population moves as a cause of segregation, far less academic attention has been paid to dynamic migration processes in understanding the evolution of spatial population patterns in Northern Ireland (NI). This paper attempts to address this gap by considering how far internal migration ‐ defined as address changes ‐ has redistributed the population with regard to (a) religion and (b) social deprivation between 2001 and 2007. Using data from the Northern Ireland Longitudinal Study (NILS), the paper finds that Catholics and Protestants move from and to the same sorts of places with regard to deprivation but that there was some evidence of differential mobility behaviour with regard to individual community affiliation and other individual socio‐demographic characteristics. However, there is no evidence for increases in either communal or social segregation. It is suggested that this is because relatively few people move, they move only short distances, and the current net redistributive impact of migration is therefore small. It is hypothesised that a much more dynamic population with regard to migration is needed to increase or decrease segregation. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of New Dynamic Accumulation Method for Measuring Oxygen Transmission Rate of Packaging against the Steady‐State Method Described by ASTM D3985
Authors: Abdellatief Ayman , Welt Bruce A.
Published: June 2012

A new dynamic accumulation method for measuring the oxygen transmission rate (OTR) of packages and packaging films using robust and inexpensive fluorescence oxygen sensing technology has been developed. The method allows for oxygen to transfer through a given area of packaging or sample film and accumulate over time. The test volume incorporates a fluorescence‐based oxygen sensor that does not consume oxygen and therefore does not interfere with the real‐time measurement of oxygen concentration. The new method was tested against a widely used, commercially available instrument (Mocon Oxtran 2/20; Mocon, Inc., Minneapolis, MN, USA) designed around the steady‐state gas permeation measurement approach described by ASTM D3985. Sample films were chosen to provide comparison over several orders of magnitude of OTR. Specifically, sample films with OTR values in the range of 101, 103 and 104 ml O2/m2/day were measured, and results using the two methods were compared. Results showed that the new dynamic accumulation method provides comparable results with the steady‐state method (ASTM D3985). Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electronic states of mixed base pairs systems of dna and the effect of base composition and sequences on the band structures using screw axis translational symmetry
Authors: Xie Peng , Teramae Hiroyuki , Liu Kai , Aoki Yuriko
Published: June 2012

We perform the conventional band structure and local density of states (LDOS) calculations in the vicinity of the Fermi level at ab initio molecular orbital level with 6‐31G base set for one DNA duplex with repeated mononucleotide sequences and four DNA duplexes with repeated dinucleotide sequences in B form neutralized by Na+. The LDOS of six other DNA duplexes with repeated trinucleotide sequences in the same states are analyzed. The obtained results are compared with those by the band calculations based on periodic boundary condition using screw axis symmetry. The investigations focused on the influence of the base composition and base sequence on the DNA conductivity. The band structure and LDOS calculation results indicated that base guanine is more important for DNA conductivity than the other bases, and DNA conductivity varies with base sequence of DNA. Moreover, poly (dG) • poly (dC) shows the best conductor in our DNA duplex models. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Theoretical models for the antitrypanosomal activity of thiosemicarbazone derivatives
Authors: Lozano N. B. H. , Weber K. C. , Honorio K. M. , Guido R. V. C. , Andricopulo A. D. , Da Silva A. B. F.
Published: June 2012

Thiosemicarbazones are cruzain inhibitors which have been identified as potential antitrypanosomal agents. In this work, several molecular properties were calculated at the density functional theory (DFT)/B3LYP/6‐311G* level for a set of 44 thiosemicarbazones. Unsupervised and supervised pattern recognition techniques (hierarchical cluster analysis, principal component analysis, kth‐nearest neighbors, and soft independent modeling by class analogy) were used to obtain structure–activity relationship models, which are able to classify unknown compounds according to their activities. The chemometric analyses performed here revealed that 12 descriptors can be considered responsible for the discrimination between high and low activity compounds. Classification models were validated with an external test set, showing that predictive classifications were achieved with the selected variable set. The results obtained here are in good agreement with previous findings from the literature, suggesting that our models can be useful on further investigations on the molecular determinants for the antichagasic activity. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Concurrent phenomena at the transition region of selected elementary chemical reactions: An information‐theoretical complexity analysis
Authors: Esquivel Rodolfo O. , Molina‐Espíritu Moyocoyani , Dehesa Jesús S. , Angulo Juan Carlos , Antolín Juan
Published: June 2012

In this work, we have investigated in position (r) and momentum (p) spaces the concurrent phenomena occurring at the vicinity of the transition state (TS) (the so‐called transition region) of selected chemical reactions (such as the hydrogenic abstraction and the exchange hydrogenic reactions) by means of a broad set of single information‐theoretic functionals of the one‐particle density (such as the disequilibrium (D), exponential entropy (L), Fisher information (I) and the power entropy (J)) and composite information‐theoretic measures which includes various information planes (such as the I‐D, D‐L, and I‐J planes) and complexities of the Fisher‐Shannon and López‐Mancini‐Calbet (LMC) types. The analysis of the single functionals and the information planes revealed that these information‐theoretical elements can identify all the chemically significant regions, not only the reactant/product regions (R/P) and the TS but also those that are not present in the energy profile, such as the bond cleavage energy region (BCER), the bond breaking/forming regions (B‐B/F) and the charge transfer complex. Moreover, the analysis of the complexities shows that in position as well as in the joint (r‐p) spaces, the energy profile of the abstraction reaction bears the same information‐theoretical features of the LMC and FS measures. Finally, it is shown why most of the chemical features of interest (such as e.g., BCER and B‐B/F) are lost in the energy profile, being only revealed when particular information‐theoretical aspects of localizability (L or J), uniformity (D) and disorder (I) are considered. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Time‐of‐Flight SIMS depth profiling and imaging of the interface of Al contact to n‐type 4H silicon carbide
Authors: Rogowski Jacek , Kubiak Andrzej
Published: June 2012

In this work, we used time‐of‐flight (ToF)‐SIMS spectrometry to study the structure and chemical composition of the interface region of Al contacts to n‐type 4H silicon carbide (SiC). The obtained ToF‐SIMS depth profiles showed that the annealing of the Al/4H‐SiC contacts in the temperature range of 700 °C–1000 °C results in reaction between Al and SiC, and products of this reaction, crystalline silicon and aluminum carbide (Al4C3), are accumulated in the contact layer. In addition, recorded ToF‐SIMS images demonstrated that the annealing of the contact results in inhomogeneous chemical composition of its interface region. It was shown that the thermally induced modification of structure and the composition of the contact interface affect its I–V characteristic. The formation of Al contact to crystalline Si was proposed as the main factor responsible for the observed changes of I–V characteristic of Al/SiC contacts upon annealing. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
3D anisotropy measurement methodology for surface microstructures
Authors: Filliger R. , Mermoud O. , Trivun D. , Walther P.
Published: June 2012

We propose a simple method able to quantify three‐dimensional (3D) anisotropy in topographic microstructure measurements. The anisotropy quantification of 3D surface data is based on a horizontal‐cut analysis yielding level sets. For a specific level set, we study xy anisotropy with the use of a directional chord length analysis. In the height profile direction, the z direction, anisotropy is quantified using the framework of mean Euler characteristic and more generally that of Minkowski functionals. We exemplify the method with the use of 3D heights profiles from atomic force microscopy measurements. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigating the Mechanism of Hysteresis Effect in Graphene Electrical Field Device Fabricated on SiO2 Substrates using Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Xu Hua , Chen Yabin , Zhang Jin , Zhang Haoli
Published: June 2012

The hysteresis effect is a common problem in graphene field‐effect transistors (FETs). Usually, the external doping to graphene is considered to be responsible for the hysteresis behavior, but is not yet clearly understood. By monitoring the doping of graphene and the hysteresis in graphene FETs under different atmospheres using in situ Raman spectroscopy, it is confirmed that the electrochemical doping of O2/H2O redox couple to graphene is responsible for the hysteresis effect. In addition, Raman spectra of graphene on SiO2 substrate show stronger doping than that suspended, which indicates that SiO2 substrate plays an important role in the doping of graphene. Herein it is proposed that the doping species (H2O and O2) are bounded at the interface of graphene/SiO2 substrate by hydrogen‐bonds with the silanol groups on SiO2 substrate. The dynamic equilibrium process of the charge‐transfer between H2O/O2 redox couple and graphene under electrical field modulation is carefully analyzed using Marcus–Gerischer theory. This work provides a clear view to the mechanism of the hysteresis effect, and is of benefit to a reliable design to suppress the hysteresis in graphene FETs.
Topological susceptibility on the lattice and the three-flavour quark condensate
Authors: Bernard Véronique , Descotes-Genon Sébastien , Toucas Guillaume
Published: June 2012

Abstract

We reanalyse the topological susceptibility assuming the possibility of a significant paramagnetic suppression of the three-flavour quark condensate and a correlated enhancement of vacuum fluctuations of
$ s\overline s $
pairs. Using the framework of resummed χPT, we point out that simulations performed near the physical point, with a significant mass hierarchy between u, d and s dynamical quarks, are not able to disentangle the contributions from the quark condensate and sea
$ s\overline s $
-pair fluctuations, and that simulations with three light quark masses of the same order are better suited for this purpose. We perform a combined fit of recent RBC/UKQCD data on pseudoscalar masses and decay constants as well as the topological susceptibility, and we reconsider the determination of lattice spacings in our framework, working out the consequences on the parameters of the chiral Lagrangian. We obtain (Σ(3; 2 GeV))1/3 = 243 ± 12 MeV for the three-flavour quark condensate in the chiral limit. We notice a significant suppression compared to the two-flavour quark condensate Σ(2; 2 GeV)/Σ(3; 2 GeV) = 1.51 ± 0.11 and we confirm previous findings of a competition between leading order and next-to-leading order contributions in three-flavour chiral series.
NLL soft and Coulomb resummation for squark and gluino production at the LHC
Authors: Falgari P. , Schwinn C. , Wever C.
Published: June 2012

Abstract

We present predictions of the total cross sections for pair production of squarks and gluinos at the LHC, including the stop-antistop production process. Our calculation supplements full fixed-order NLO predictions with resummation of threshold logarithms and Coulomb singularities at next-to-leading logarithmic (NLL) accuracy, including bound-state effects. The numerical effect of higher-order Coulomb terms can be as big or larger than that of soft-gluon corrections. For a selection of benchmark points accessible with data from the 2010-2012 LHC runs, resummation leads to an enhancement of the total inclusive squark and gluino production cross section in the 15-30% range. For individual production processes of gluinos, the corrections can be much larger. The theoretical uncertainty in the prediction of the hard-scattering cross sections is typically reduced to the ±10% level.
2‐[(E)‐{(1S,2R)‐1‐Hydroxy‐1‐phenylpropan‐2‐ylimino}methyl]phenol for Inhibition of Acid Corrosion of Mild Steel
Authors: Kesavan Devarayan , Muthu Tamizh Manoharan , Sulochana Nagarajan , Karvembu Ramasamy
Published: June 2012

2‐[(E)‐{(1S,2R)‐1‐hydroxy‐1‐phenylpropan‐2‐ylimino}methyl]phenol has been synthesized and its influence on corrosion of mild steel in 1 M HCl solution has been studied by means of weight loss and electrochemical measurements under various circumstances. The inhibitor showed a maximum of 91 % of inhibition efficiency at 100 ppm. Interestingly, the inhibition efficiency has decreased on increasing the inhibitor concentration. This abnormal behavior is attributed to the release of phenolic hydrogen from the molecule. The mechanism of corrosion inhibition follows Langmuir adsorption isotherm. The negative ∆Gads indicates the spontaneous adsorption of the inhibitor on mild steel surface. Potentiodynamic polarization studies show that it is a mixed type inhibitor with predominant cathodic inhibition. UV–Visible spectroscopy of the inhibitor and inhibitor adsorbed on the mild steel confirmed the chemical interaction of the inhibitor with the metal surface.
Apprendre à lire les Sentences de Pierre Lombard à l'université de Paris (XIIIe-XIVe siècles)
Authors: Anootti Claire
Published: June 2012

L’apprentissage du métier de « maître régent » en théologie passe par le commentaire oral (lectio) des Sentences du Lombard. Cet exercice est confié aux bacheliers: les premiers statuts universitaires ne permettent pas d’en saisir les conditions concrètes et ceux du XIVe siècle laissent soupçonner de grandes contraintes. On peut supposer l’usage d’un certain nombre de « commentaires modèles». Les maîtres ont appliqué des méthodes issues de l’exégèse. Ce sont les manuscrits et leur apparat qui permettent de saisir les modalités de la lectio des Sentences.
Des professionnels de la chaire dans la France de l'Âge classique
Authors: Brian Isabelle
Published: June 2012

Dans les villes françaises, à partir des années 1630, la multiplication des sermons a fourni à un nombre croissant de clercs la possibilité d’accéder à la prédication. Cette professionnalisation est analysée ici à travers des carrières parfois longues et sources de revenus substantiels. Elle s’accompagne du développement d’un savoirfaire spécifique portant sur la composition du discours et son énonciation. Un dernier point est consacré aux transformations induites par le rôle accru de la communication écrite au cours du XVIIIe siècle.
Multi-detector CT angiographic imaging in the follow-up of patients after endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR)
Authors: Iezzi Roberto , Santoro M. , Dattesi R. , Pirro F. , Nestola M. , Spigonardo F. , Cotroneo A. R. , Bonomo L.
Published: June 2012

Background

Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) angiography represents the standard of reference in the follow-up of patients after endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR), being effective in the detection of the full spectrum of possible complications on both axial and 3D images.

Methods

The purpose of this article is to review the normal CT angiography findings of the different types of stent-grafts and to describe the radiological findings of early and late complications after EVAR on axial and reconstructed images. A selection of cases of post-EVAR MDCT angiography is presented to learn the techniques most commonly used for endovascular treatment, the correct CT scanning technique to acquire the data, the full gamut of possible procedure-related complications and how these complications usually appear on CT images.

Conclusion

MDCT angiography is an effective and specific technique in both the pre- and postoperative settings of EVAR procedures. A better understanding of the procedure, the devices, the normal postoperative imaging features and the possible procedure-related complications ensures optimal planning and follow-up of patients undergoing an EVAR procedure.
Glycosyltransferase complexes improve glycolipid synthesis
Authors: Spessott Waldo , Crespo Pilar M. , Daniotti José Luis , Maccioni Hugo J.F.
Published: June 2012

The synthesis of gangliosides GM3 and GD3 is carried out by the successive addition of sialic acid residues on lactosylceramide (LacCer) by the Golgi located sialyltransferases Sial‐T1 and Sial‐T2, respectively. CHO‐K1 cells lack Sial‐T2 and only express GM3. Here we show that the activity of Sial‐T1 was near 2.5‐fold higher in homogenates of CHO‐K1 cells transfected to express Sial‐T2 (CHO‐K1Sial‐T2) than in untransfected cells. The appearance of Sial‐T1 enzyme or gene transcription activators or the stabilization of the Sial‐T1 protein were discarded as possible causes of the activation. Sial‐T2 lacking the catalytic domain failed to promote Sial‐T1 activation. Since Gal‐T1, Sial‐T1 and Sial‐T2 form a multienzyme complex, we propose that transformation of formed GM3 into GD3 and GT3 by Sial‐T2 in the complex leaves Sial‐T1 unoccupied, enabled for new rounds of LacCer utilization, which results in its apparent activation.
Fungal fludioxonil sensitivity is diminished by a constitutively active form of the group III histidine kinase
Authors: Furukawa Kentaro , Randhawa Anmoldeep , Kaur Harsimran , Mondal Alok K. , Hohmann Stefan
Published: June 2012

The fungicide fludioxonil is used to control plant‐pathogenic fungi by causing improper activation of the Hog1‐type MAPK. However, the appearance of fludioxonil resistant mutants, mostly caused by mutations in the group III histidine kinases, poses a serious problem. Moreover, such mutations cause also hyperosmotic sensitivity and the underlying mechanism has been elusive for a long time. Using Saccharomyces cerevisiae as an experimental host, we show that those phenotypes are conferred by a constitutively active form of the group III histidine kinase. Our results explain the different reasons for fludioxonil resistance conferred by its deletion and missense mutation.
The abp gene in Geobacillus stearothermophilus T‐6 encodes a GH27 β‐l‐arabinopyranosidase
Authors: Salama Rachel , Alalouf Onit , Tabachnikov Orly , Zolotnitsky Gennady , Shoham Gil , Shoham Yuval
Published: June 2012

In this study we demonstrate that the abp gene in Geobacillus stearothermophilus T‐6 encodes a family 27 glycoside hydrolase β‐l‐arabinopyranosidase. The catalytic constants towards the chromogenic substrate pNP‐β‐l‐arabinopyranoside were 0.8 ± 0.1 mM, 6.6 ± 0.3 s−1, and 8.2 ± 0.3 s−1
mM−1 for K
m, k
cat and k
cat
/K
m, respectively. 13C NMR spectroscopy unequivocally showed that Abp is capable of removing β‐l‐arabinopyranose residues from the natural arabino‐polysaccharide, larch arabinogalactan. Most family 27 enzymes are active on galactose and contain a conserved Asp residue, whereas in Abp this residue is Ile67, which shifts the specificity of the enzyme towards arabinopyranoside.
Effects of sleep fragmentation on appetite and related hormone concentrations over 24 h in healthy men
Authors: Gonnissen Hanne K. J. , Hursel Rick , Rutters Femke , Martens Eveline A. P. , Westerterp-Plantenga Margriet S.
Published: June 2012

In addition to short sleep duration, reduced sleep quality is also associated with appetite control. The present study examined the effect of sleep fragmentation, independent of sleep duration, on appetite profiles and 24 h profiles of hormones involved in energy balance regulation. A total of twelve healthy male subjects (age 23 (sd4) years, BMI 24·4 (sd1·9) kg/m2) completed a 24 h randomised crossover study in which sleep (23.30–07.30 hours) was either fragmented or non-fragmented. Polysomnography was used to determine rapid-eye movement (REM) sleep, slow-wave sleep (SWS) and total sleep time (TST). Blood samples were taken at baseline and continued hourly for the 24 h period to measure glucose, insulin, ghrelin, leptin, glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and melatonin concentrations. In addition, salivary cortisol levels were measured. Visual analogue scales were used to score appetite-related feelings. Sleep fragmentation resulted in reduced REM sleep (69·4 min compared with 83·5 min;P< 0·05) and preservation of SWS without changes in TST. In fragmentedv.non-fragmented sleep, glucose concentrations did not change, while insulin secretion was decreased in the morning, and increased in the afternoon (P< 0·05), and GLP-1 concentrations and fullness scores were lower (P< 0·05). After dinner, desire-to-eat ratings were higher after fragmented sleep (P< 0·05). A single night of fragmented sleep, resulting in reduced REM sleep, induced a shift in insulin concentrations, from being lower in the morning and higher in the afternoon, while GLP-1 concentrations and fullness scores were decreased. These results may lead to increased food intake and snacking, thus contributing to a positive energy balance.
Vitamin D status in Greenland is influenced by diet and ethnicity: a population-based survey in an Arctic society in transition
Authors: Andersen Stig , Laurberg Peter , Hvingel Bodil , Kleinschmidt Kent , Heickendorff Lene , Mosekilde Leif
Published: June 2012

Vitamin D status as measured by plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) is important to human health. Circumpolar people rely on dietary sources and societal changes in the Arctic are having profound dietary effects. The objective of the present study was to determine plasma 25(OH)D status and factors important to plasma 25(OH)D in populations in Greenland. Inuit and non-Inuit aged 50–69 years in the capital in West Greenland (latitude 64°15′N) and in a major town and remote settlements in East Greenland (latitude 65°35′N) were surveyed. Supplement use and lifestyle factors were determined by questionnaires. Inuit food scores were computed from a FFQ of seven traditional Inuit and seven imported food items. 25(OH)D2 and 25(OH)D3 levels were measured in the plasma. We invited 1 % of the population of Greenland, and 95 % participated. 25(OH)D3 contributed 99·7 % of total plasma 25(OH)D. Non-Inuit had the lowest median plasma 25(OH)D of 41 (25th–75th percentile 23–53) nmol/l compared with 64 (25th–75th percentile 51–81) nmol/l in Inuit (P< 0·001). Plasma 25(OH)D was below 20 and 50 nmol/l in 13·8 and 60·1 % of participants, respectively, with Inuit food item scores below 40 % (P< 0·001), and in 0·2 and 25·0 % of participants, respectively, with higher scores (P< 0·001). The Inuit diet was an important determinant of plasma 25(OH)D (P< 0·001) and its effect was modified by ethnicity (P= 0·005). Seal (P= 0·005) and whale (P= 0·015) were major contributors to plasma 25(OH)D. In conclusion, a decrease in the intake of the traditional Inuit diet was associated with a decrease in plasma 25(OH)D levels, which may be influenced by ethnicity. The risk of plasma 25(OH)D deficiency in Arctic populations rises with the dietary transition of societies in Greenland. Vitamin D intake and plasma 25(OH)D status should be monitored.
Digenean communities in the tufted duck [Aythya fuligula (L., 1758)] and greater scaup [A. marila (L., 1761)] wintering in the north-west of Poland
Authors: Rząd I. , Sitko J. , Kavetska K. , Kalisińska E. , Panicz R.
Published: June 2012

A total of 124 specimens of the tufted duck, Aythya fuligula, and 63 greater scaup, A. marila, were examined for digenean parasites. Both duck species, which overwinter in a coastal lake connected with the southern Baltic (north-west Poland) were found to support Amblosoma exile, Cyathocotyle prussica,Paracoenogonimus ovatus, Australapatemon minor, Cotylurus cornutus, Echinoparyphium recurvatum, Echinostoma revolutum and Notocotylus attenuatus. In addition, the tufted duck hosted Hypoderaeum conoideum, Bilharziella polonica, Neoeucotyle zakharovi, Renicola mediovitellata, Psilochasmus oxyurus, Psilostomum brevicolle and Cryptocotyle concava; Echinostoma nordiana occurred in the greater scaup only. The two duck species differed significantly in the intensity and abundance of their digenean infection. Aythya marila harboured higher intensity levels and a wider assemblage of digeneans than A. fuligula, and this was likely to be due to differences in the pre-wintering exposure of the duck species to infective stages of these freshwater digeneans. Digenean communities in both duck species, strongly dominated by E. recurvatum, were relatively similar in their structure. No significant sex-dependent differences in digenean infections were revealed, except for the infection with N. attenuatus in A. fuligula. Similarly, there were no significant age-dependent differences (adult versus immature birds) in digenean infections, except for that with N. attenuatus in A. fuligula. The structural similarity between digenean communities in the two duck species is most likely an effect of overlapping diets based on freshwater molluscs, components of the digenean transmission pathway to definitive hosts.
A new foliicolous Fellhaneropsis (Pilocarpaceae) from the Netherlands
Authors: APTROOT André
Published: June 2012

The new species Fellhaneropsis rhododendri is described from living Rhododendron leaves in the Netherlands. It is characterized by pyriform pycnidia with stiff, septate hairs at the mouth. It is doubtlessly due to recent global warming that an obligately foliicolous lichen can be described from a temperate area in Europe.
The genus Melanophloea, an example of convergent evolution towards polyspory
Authors: APTROOT André , SCHUMM Felix
Published: June 2012

The species described in or referred to the genus Melanophloea, traditionally referred to the Thelocarpaceae, are discussed. Detailed observations on two species, including the type species, show that they have not much more in common than their polysporous ascus. Melanophloea is reduced to the type species, M. pacifica. It shows a close resemblance to Aptrootia in the Trypetheliaceae, and it is therefore tentatively referred to this family. Melanophloea americana is shown to be close to Thelenella in the Thelenellaceae. The latter species and the related M. montana are newly combined into this genus as Thelenella americana and T. montana. Thelocarpon nigrum, which was recently compared to Melanophloea, is retained in Thelocarpon in the Thelocarpaceae. Polyspory is suggested to facilitate dispersion, especially when compared to parent taxa that produce large muriform ascospores. Based on the current classification, polyspory originated at least 57 times within the lichenized ascomycetes, a clear example of convergent evolution.
Pannaria howeana and Pannaria streimannii, two related new lichen species endemic to Lord Howe Island, Australia
Authors: ELVEBAKK Arve
Published: June 2012

Pannaria howeana and P. streimannii are described here as new to science. Both species are restricted to the isolated Lord Howe Island in Australia. The former is known only from one collection and the latter from two sites. Pannaria howeana is a primarily fertile species, with rather broad lobes and few rhizines restricted to the central part of the lower side of the thallus. The lower sides of the lobes have a pattern of characteristic radiating hyphae and narrowly recurved margins similar to the New Zealand lichen P. araneosa (C. Bab.) Hue, which is considered to be its closest relative. Pannaria streimannii is a phyllidiate counterpart of P. howeana. Both species share a new chemosyndrome consisting of porphyrilic acid in combination with vicanicin and leprolomin. Local endemic species are uncommon among tripartite Pannaria species, and the coarse vegetative propagules of both species appear to be an adaptation to local dispersal on a small, isolated island.
New species of lichenicolous fungi from Bolivia
Authors: FLAKUS Adam , KUKWA Martin
Published: June 2012

Four new species of lichenicolous fungi are described from Bolivia:Capronia etayoiFlakus & Kukwa sp. nov. (onDictyonema minus),Lichenosticta jurgaeKukwa & Flakus sp. nov. (onLecanorasp.),Phaeosporobolus trypetheliiFlakus & Kukwa sp. nov. (onTrypetheliumochroleucum; the host lichen new to Bolivia) andSpirographa usneaeFlakus, Kukwa & Etayo sp. nov. (onUsneasp.; also known from Ecuador).