bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Finishing Hot‐Working Temperature on Microstructure of Thermomechanically Processed Mn–Al Multiphase Steels
Authors: Grajcar Adam , Skrzypczyk Paweł , Kuziak Roman , Gołombek Klaudiusz
Published: February 2014

The study was devoted to the hot‐working behavior and the microstructure evolution of four thermomechanically processed Mn–Al‐alloyed multiphase steels. Determination of the hot deformation resistance of investigated steels was carried out on the basis of continuous compression, double‐hit compression, and seven‐step compression tests simulating conditions of hot strip rolling. The experiments were carried out using the Gleeble 3800 thermomechanical simulator. The physical simulation of hot strip rolling consisted of seven deformation steps characterized by decreasing strain, temperature, and interpass time whereas the strain rate values were gradually increased. A special attention was paid to the effect of Nb microaddition on the hot‐working behavior and microstructure evolution with the finishing hot‐working temperature varying in a range from 950 to 750°C. Morphological features of a bainite‐based matrix and retained austenite were identified using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy techniques. A fraction of retained austenite was determined by X‐ray diffraction. The increase in the Mn content increases the softening kinetics of austenite. It was also found that the best conditions for thermal stabilization of retained austenite occur at 950°C for the steels containing 3% Mn.
Modeling Human Retinal Development with Patient-Specific Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Reveals Multiple Roles for Visual System Homeobox 2
Authors: Phillips M. Joseph , Perez Enio T. , Martin Jessica M. , Reshel Samantha T. , Wallace Kyle A. , Capowski Elizabeth E. , Singh Ruchira , Wright Lynda S. , Clark Eric M. , Barney Patrick M. , Stewart Ron , Dickerson Sarah J. , Miller Michael J. , Percin E. Ferda , Thomson James A. , Gamm David M.
Published: February 2014

Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) have been shown to differentiate along the retinal lineage in a manner that mimics normal mammalian development. Under certain culture conditions, hiPSCs form optic vesicle-like structures (OVs), which contain proliferating progenitors capable of yielding all neural retina (NR) cell types over time. Such observations imply conserved roles for regulators of retinogenesis in hiPSC-derived cultures and the developing embryo. However, whether and to what extent this assumption holds true has remained largely uninvestigated. We examined the role of a key NR transcription factor, visual system homeobox 2 (VSX2), using hiPSCs derived from a patient with microphthalmia caused by an R200Q mutation in the VSX2 homeodomain region. No differences were noted between (R200Q)VSX2 and sibling control hiPSCs prior to OV generation. Thereafter, (R200Q)VSX2 hiPSC-OVs displayed a significant growth deficit compared to control hiPSC-OVs, as well as increased production of retinal pigmented epithelium at the expense of NR cell derivatives. Furthermore, (R200Q)VSX2 hiPSC-OVs failed to produce bipolar cells, a distinctive feature previously observed in Vsx2 mutant mice. (R200Q)VSX2 hiPSC-OVs also demonstrated delayed photoreceptor maturation, which could be overcome via exogenous expression of wild-type VSX2 at early stages of retinal differentiation. Finally, RNAseq analysis on isolated hiPSC-OVs implicated key transcription factors and extracellular signaling pathways as potential downstream effectors of VSX2-mediated gene regulation. Our results establish hiPSC-OVs as versatile model systems to study retinal development at stages not previously accessible in humans and support the bona fide nature of hiPSC-OV-derived retinal progeny. Stem Cells  2014;32:1480–1492
Erythropoiesis from Human Embryonic Stem Cells Through Erythropoietin-Independent AKT Signaling
Authors: Kim William S. , Zhu Yuhua , Deng Qiming , Chin Chee Jia , He Chong Bin , Grieco Amanda J. , Dravid Gautam G. , Parekh Chintan , Hollis Roger P. , Lane Timothy F. , Bouhassira Eric E. , Kohn Donald B. , Crooks Gay M.
Published: February 2014

Unlimited self renewal capacity and differentiation potential make human pluripotent stem cells (PSC) a promising source for the ex vivo manufacture of red blood cells (RBCs) for safe transfusion. Current methods to induce erythropoiesis from PSC suffer from low yields of RBCs, most of which are immature and contain embryonic and fetal rather than adult hemoglobins. We have previously shown that homodimerization of the intracellular component of MPL (ic-MPL) induces erythropoiesis from human cord blood progenitors. The goal of this study was to investigate the potential of ic-MPL dimerization to induce erythropoiesis from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and to identify the signaling pathways activated by this strategy. We present here the evidence that ic-MPL dimerization induces erythropoietin (EPO)-independent erythroid differentiation from hESC by inducing the generation of erythroid progenitors and by promoting more efficient erythroid maturation with increased RBC enucleation as well as increased gamma:epsilon globin ratio and production of beta-globin protein. ic-MPL dimerization is significantly more potent than EPO in inducing erythropoiesis, and its effect is additive to EPO. Signaling studies show that dimerization of ic-MPL, unlike stimulation of the wild type MPL receptor, activates AKT in the absence of JAK2/STAT5 signaling. AKT activation upregulates GATA-1 and FOXO3 transcriptional pathways with resulting inhibition of apoptosis, modulation of cell cycle, and enhanced maturation of erythroid cells. These findings open up potential new targets for the generation of therapeutically relevant RBC products from hPSC. Stem Cells  2014;32:1503–1514
Identification of pathologically small fetuses using customized, ultrasound and population‐based growth norms
Authors: Smith N. A. , Bukowski R. , Thomas A. M. , Cantonwine D. , Zera C. , Robinson J. N.
Published: February 2014

Objectives

Fetal growth restriction is a strong risk factor for stillbirth. We compared the performance of three fetal growth curves – customized, ultrasound (Hadlock) and population – in identifying abnormally grown fetuses at risk of stillbirth.

Methods

We performed a case–control study of singleton stillbirths (delivered between 2000 and 2010) at one center. Four liveborn controls were randomly identified for each stillbirth. Ultrasound‐estimated fetal weight within 1 month prior to delivery was used to calculate growth percentiles for each fetus using three fetal growth norms. Sensitivities and odds ratios for stillbirth, as well as odds of abnormal growth according to formula, were calculated.

Results

There were 49 stillbirths and 197 live births. Using the customized norms, growth of the fetuses destined to be stillborn was bimodal, with both more small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA; < 10th percentile) and large‐for‐gestational‐age (LGA; ≥ 90th percentile) fetuses. Odds of being abnormally grown were significantly higher using ultrasound compared with population norms (P = 0.02) but were not statistically different using ultrasound and customized norms (P = 0.21). Sensitivity for identification of SGA on ultrasound as a predictor of stillbirth was higher using customized (39%; 95% CI, 24–54%) or ultrasound (33%; 95% CI, 19–47%), rather than population (14%; 95% CI, 4–25%), norms.

Conclusions

Among fetuses destined to be stillborn, customized and ultrasound norms identified a greater proportion of both SGA and LGA estimated fetal weights. The customized norms performed best in identifying death among SGA fetuses. These results should be interpreted within the limitations of the study design. Copyright © 2014 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Aberrant protein acylation is a common observation in inborn errors of acyl‐CoA metabolism
Authors: Pougovkina Olga , te Brinke Heleen , Wanders Ronald J. A. , Houten Sander M. , de Boer Vincent C. J.
Published: February 2014

Inherited disorders of acyl‐CoA metabolism, such as defects in amino acid metabolism and fatty acid oxidation can present with severe clinical symptoms either neonatally or later in life, but the pathophysiological mechanisms are often incompletely understood. We now report the discovery of a novel biochemical mechanism that could contribute to the pathophysiology of these disorders. We identified increased protein lysine butyrylation in short‐chain acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase (SCAD) deficient mice as a result of the accumulation of butyryl‐CoA. Similarly, in SCAD deficient fibroblasts, lysine butyrylation was increased. Furthermore, malonyl‐CoA decarboxylase (MCD) deficient patient cells had increased levels of malonylated lysines and propionyl‐CoA carboxylase (PCC) deficient patient cells had increased propionylation of lysines. Since lysine acylation can greatly impact protein function, aberrant lysine acylation in inherited disorders associated with acyl‐CoA accumulation may well play a role in their disease pathophysiology.
Tenosynovitis of the Wrist and Thumb and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Caused by Histoplasma Capsulatum: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Vitale Mark A. , Roden Anja C. , Rizzo Marco
Published: February 2014

A patient presenting with acute carpal tunnel syndrome and swelling and pain in the wrist and thumb is presented. An open carpal tunnel release and tenosynovectomy were performed with biopsy specimen revealing infection with Histoplasma capsulatum. The case is discussed in context of the prior scant literature of tenosynovitis of the wrist and hand caused by histoplasmosis.
Ether‐Type Moieties in the Lipid Part of Glycoinositolphospholipids of Acanthamoeba rhysodes
Authors: Karaś Magdalena A. , Russa Ryszard
Published: February 2014

Ether lipids were identified among components liberated with HF and nitrous acid deamination from Acanthamoeba rhysodes whole cells and its membrane glycoinositolphospholipids (GIPL). Liberated ether glycerols were converted to various derivatives that served characterization thereof. These included TMS and isopropylidene derivatives, oxidation with sodium periodate to aldehyde followed by reduction with NaBH4 to alcohol, and reaction of the alcohol with acetic anhydrite to form acetate derivatives. Periodate sensitivity demonstrated that the alkyl side chains were linked to the sn‐1 position of glycerol. Combined information from TLC, GC–MS analysis, MALDI‐TOF spectrometry, and chemical degradation experiments indicated the presence of ether‐linked saturated normal and branched hydrocarbons with a length of C20–23 in the phospholipid fraction, C20–24 in free GPI, and C21–23 in the LPG polymer. The distribution of particular classes of alkylglycerols was similar for phospholipid and GPI fractions, and amounted to 2.62 % (±0.04–0.28) 1‐O‐eicosanyl‐sn‐glycerol, 16.66 % (±0.32–1.1) 1‐O‐uncosanyl‐sn‐glycerol, 9.18 % (±0.33–1.37) anteiso‐1‐O‐docosanyl‐sn‐glycerol, 47.56 % (±0.32–2.14) 1‐O‐docosanyl‐sn‐glycerol, 20.56 % (±0.58–1.67) anteiso‐1‐O‐tricosanyl‐sn‐glycerol, and 2.34 % (±0.12–0.63) 1‐O‐tricosanyl‐sn‐glycerol. For LPG preparation, the most abundant were anteiso‐1‐O‐tricosanyl‐sn‐glycerol (57.26 %) and 1‐O‐docosanyl‐sn‐glycerol (30.12 %). The data from TLC and GC–MS analysis showed that ether lipids from phospholipids probably represent the lyso‐alkylglycerol type, while those derived from GIPL are alkylacylglycerol moieties.
The tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 is required for cell transformation by the receptor tyrosine kinase mutants FIP1L1‐PDGFRα and PDGFRα D842V
Authors: Noël Laura A. , Arts Florence A. , Montano-Almendras Carmen P. , Cox Luk , Gielen Olga , Toffalini Federica , Marbehant Catherine Y. , Cools Jan , Demoulin Jean-Baptiste
Published: February 2014

Activated forms of the platelet derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRα) have been described in various tumors, including FIP1L1‐PDGFRα in patients with myeloproliferative diseases associated with hypereosinophilia and the PDGFRαD842V mutant in gastrointestinal stromal tumors and inflammatory fibroid polyps.

To gain a better insight into the signal transduction mechanisms of PDGFRα oncogenes, we mutated twelve potentially phosphorylated tyrosine residues of FIP1L1‐PDGFRα and identified three mutations that affected cell proliferation. In particular, mutation of tyrosine 720 in FIP1L1‐PDGFRα or PDGFRαD842V inhibited cell growth and blocked ERK signaling in Ba/F3 cells. This mutation also decreased myeloproliferation in transplanted mice and the proliferation of human CD34+ hematopoietic progenitors transduced with FIP1L1‐PDGFRα. We showed that the non‐receptor protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 bound directly to tyrosine 720 of FIP1L1‐PDGFRα. SHP2 knock‐down decreased proliferation of Ba/F3 cells transformed with FIP1L1‐PDGFRα and PDGFRαD842V and affected ERK signaling, but not STAT5 phosphorylation. Remarkably, SHP2 was not essential for cell proliferation and ERK phosphorylation induced by the wild‐type PDGF receptor in response to ligand stimulation, suggesting a shift in the function of SHP2 downstream of oncogenic receptors.

In conclusion, our results indicate that SHP2 is required for cell transformation and ERK activation by mutant PDGF receptors.
The wake of a two-dimensional ship in the low-speed limit: results for multi-cornered hulls
Authors: Trinh Philippe H. , Chapman S. Jonathan
Published: February 2014

In the Dagan & Tulin (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 51, 1972, pp. 529–543) model of ship waves, a blunt ship moving at low speeds can be modelled as a two-dimensional semi-infinite body. A central question for these reduced models is whether a particular ship design can minimize, or indeed eliminate, the wave resistance. In the previous part of our work (Trinhet al.,J. Fluid Mech., vol. 685, 2011, pp. 413–439), we demonstrated why a single corner can never be made waveless. In this accompanying paper, we continue our investigations with the study of more general piecewise-linear, or multi-cornered ships. By using exponential asymptotics, we demonstrate how the production of waves can be directly ascertained by the positions and angles of the corners. In particular, this theory answers the question raised by Farrow & Tuck (J. Austral. Math. Soc.B, vol. 36, 1995, pp. 424–437) as to why certain bulbous-like obstructions can minimize the production of waves. General results for wavelessness are given for a class of hulls, and numerical computations of the nonlinear ship-wave problem are used to confirm analytical predictions. Finally, we discuss open questions regarding hulls without corners and more general three-dimensional bluff bodies.
Surface slopes, velocity profiles and fluid pressure in coarse-grained debris flows saturated with water and mud
Authors: Kaitna R. , Dietrich W. E. , Hsu L.
Published: February 2014

Data on the internal velocity distribution of flowing sediment–fluid mixtures such as debris flows are rare, but necessary for model development and testing. A probe to measure the mean particle velocity at different depths and different locations within experimental debris flows in a 4 m diameter rotating drum was developed. In addition, the flow depth, basal normal stress and basal pore fluid pressure were also measured. Results show that for a given sediment–fluid mixture the velocity profiles collapse to distinct non-dimensional profiles. Macroscopic flow behaviour shows great similarity, with mean surface slopes weakly dependent on the shear rate for water-saturated gravel, but strongly shear-rate-dependent when pores are filled with mud. Poorly sorted material with a high content of fines produced fluid pressures close to normal stress and sidewall friction had a strong effect on the flow pattern. Our results reveal variability in profile characteristics for flows displaying similar macro-dynamics and provide data for model testing.
Le jeune Canguilhem, lecteur de Bergson (1927–1939)
Authors: ROTH XAVIER
Published: February 2014

À la lecture des textes de jeunesse qui viennent d’être réédités, on constate que Canguilhem a spectaculairement réévalué Bergson à la fin des années 1930, alors qu’il n’est pas encore le philosophe de la vie que l’on connaît. Se pose alors la question de la provenance de cette étonnante relecture, puisque, contrairement à ce à quoi l’on aurait pu s’attendre, la vie n’est pas le problème commun à partir duquel s’effectue cette revalorisation. On tâchera ici de montrer qu’elle tient à l’exportation de la théorie bergsonienne de la connaissance sur le terrain d’une philosophie des valeurs dont l’objet est l’unité de l’expérience.
Assessing non-detrimental trade for a CITES Appendix II-listed plant species: the status of wild and cultivated Galanthus woronowii in Georgia
Authors: McGough H. Noel , Kikodze David , Wilford Richard , Garrett Lucy , Deisadze Grigol , Jaworska Natalie , Smith Matthew J.
Published: February 2014

A process for the review of significant trade in species listed in CITES Appendix II was established to address problems with the application of CITES Article IV. Article IV states that international trade in Appendix II species requires a Scientific Authority of the state of export to determine that such trade will not be detrimental to the species’ survival in the wild. Such a review process was initiated for the plant species Galanthus woronowii Losinsk. as a result of continuing uncertainty over the sustainability of international exports of the plant from wild populations in Georgia, and the Georgian Management Authority was tasked with determining and reporting whether export levels conformed to Article IV. Here we report on the project that was established to address that task. Nationwide field surveys conducted in 2009 led to the recommendation of a conservative annual export quota of 15 million plants for the sites surveyed. Cultivated populations held significant stocks of harvestable plants but with varied cultivation histories, especially in relation to the extent and nature of supplementary planting. Future work should continue to monitor harvesting from wild populations and identify solutions for local communities wishing to cultivate the plant for international trade.
A severe foodborne outbreak of diarrhoea linked to a canteen in Italy caused by enteroinvasiveEscherichia coli, an uncommon agent
Authors: ESCHER M. , SCAVIA G. , MORABITO S. , TOZZOLI R. , MAUGLIANI A. , CANTONI S. , FRACCHIA S. , BETTATI A. , CASA R. , GESU G. P. , TORRESANI E. , CAPRIOLI A.
Published: February 2014

We describe a foodborne outbreak in Italy caused by enteroinvasiveEscherichia coli(EIEC), an enteric pathogen uncommon in industrialized countries. On 14 April 2012 a number of employees of the city of Milan Fire Brigade (FB) were admitted to hospital with severe diarrhoea after attending their canteen. Thirty-two patients were hospitalized and a total of 109 cases were identified. A case-control study conducted on 83 cases and 32 controls attending the canteen without having symptoms identified cooked vegetables to be significantly associated with the disease. Stool samples collected from 62 subjects were screened for enteric pathogens using PCR-based commercial kits: 17 cases and two asymptomatic kitchen-workers were positive for theShigellamarker geneipaH; anipaH-positive EIEC strain O96:H19 was isolated from six cases. EIEC may cause serious dysentery-like outbreaks even in Western European countries. Microbiologists should be aware of microbiological procedures to detect EIEC, to be applied especially when no common enteric pathogens are identified.
Crazy Like a Fox
Authors: ROLLIN MICHAEL D. H. , ROLLIN BERNARD E.
Published: February 2014

Animal models of human disease play a central role in modern biomedical science. Developing animal models for human mental illness presents unique practical and philosophical challenges. In this article we argue that (1) existing animal models of psychiatric disease are not valid, (2) attempts to model syndromes are undermined by current nosology, (3) models of symptoms are rife with circular logic and anthropomorphism, (4) any model must make unjustified assumptions about subjective experience, and (5) any model deemed valid would be inherently unethical, for if an animal adequately models human subjective experience, then there is no morally relevant difference between that animal and a human.
Neuroethics and Animals
Authors: TAKALA TUIJA , HÄYRY MATTI
Published: February 2014

This article provides an overview of the six other contributions in the Neuroethics and Animals special section. In addition, it discusses the methodological and theoretical problems of interdisciplinary fields. The article suggests that interdisciplinary approaches without established methodological and theoretical bases are difficult to assess scientifically. This might cause these fields to expand without actually advancing.
Narrative Autonomy
Authors: CASADO DA ROCHA ANTONIO
Published: February 2014

This section welcomes submissions addressing literature as a means to explore ethical issues arising in healthcare. “Literature” will be understood broadly, including fiction and creative nonfiction, illness narratives, drama, and poetry; film studies might be considered if the films are adaptations from a literary work. Topics include in-depth analysis of literary works as well as theoretical contributions, discussions, and commentary about narrative approaches to disease and medicine, the way literature shapes the relationship between patients and healthcare professionals, the role of speculative fiction as a testing ground for future scenarios in healthcare, and so on. Articles discussing the uses of literature for bioethics education and outreach will be particularly appreciated. Research on literature not originally written in English will be considered as long as it has also been published in translation. Submissions should include an abstract and should conform to theCQGuidelines for Contributors. To submit an article or discuss a suitable topic, write to Antonio Casado da Rocha atantonio.casado@ehu.es.
U.S. Responses to Japanese Wartime Inhuman Experimentation after World War II
Authors: BRODY HOWARD , LEONARD SARAH E. , NIE JING-BAO , WEINDLING PAUL
Published: February 2014

Bioethics and Defense offers information and commentary on ethical issues arising at the interface between healthcare and warfare. For submissions, contact Griffin Trotter attrotter@slu.edu.
Covert Orienting in Three Etiologies of Congenital Hydrocephalus: The Effect of Midbrain and Posterior Fossa Dysmorphology
Authors: Treble-Barna Amery , Kulesz Paulina A. , Dennis Maureen , Fletcher Jack M.
Published: February 2014

Covert orienting is related to the integrity of the midbrain, but the specificity of the relation is unclear. We compared covert orienting in three etiologies of congenital hydrocephalus (aqueductal stenosis [AS], Dandy-Walker malformation [DWM], and spina bifida myelomeningocele [SBM]—with and without tectal beaking) to explore the effects of midbrain and posterior fossa malformations. We hypothesized a stepwise order of group performance reflecting the degree of midbrain tectum dysmorphology. Performance on an exogenously cued covert orienting task was compared using repeated measures analysis of covariance, controlling for age. Individuals with SBM and tectal beaking demonstrated the greatest disengagement cost in the vertical plane, whereas individuals with AS performed as well as a typically developing (TD) group. Individuals with SBM but no tectal beaking and individuals with DWM showed greater disengagement costs in the vertical plane relative to the TD group, but better performance relative to the group with SBM and tectal beaking. Individuals with AS, DWM, and SBM and tectal beaking demonstrated poorer inhibition of return than TD individuals. Impairments in attentional disengagement in SBM are not attributable to the general effects of hydrocephalus, but are instead associated with specific midbrain anomalies that are part of the Chiari II malformation. (JINS, 2014, 20, 1–10)
aspeed: Solver scheduling via answer set programming
Authors: HOOS HOLGER , KAMINSKI ROLAND , LINDAUER MARIUS , SCHAUB TORSTEN
Published: February 2014

Although Boolean Constraint Technology has made tremendous progress over the last decade, the efficacy of state-of-the-art solvers is known to vary considerably across different types of problem instances, and is known to depend strongly on algorithm parameters. This problem was addressed by means of a simple, yet effective approach using handmade, uniform, and unordered schedules of multiple solvers inppfolio, which showed very impressive performance in the 2011 Satisfiability Testing (SAT) Competition. Inspired by this, we take advantage of the modeling and solving capacities of Answer Set Programming (ASP) to automatically determine more refined, that is, nonuniform and ordered solver schedules from the existing benchmarking data. We begin by formulating the determination of such schedules as multi-criteria optimization problems and provide corresponding ASP encodings. The resulting encodings are easily customizable for different settings, and the computation of optimum schedules can mostly be done in the blink of an eye, even when dealing with large runtime data sets stemming from many solvers on hundreds to thousands of instances. Also, the fact that our approach can be customized easily enabled us to swiftly adapt it to generate parallel schedules for multi-processor machines.
Potentiometric sensing utilizing paper-based microfluidic sampling
Authors: Cui Jingwen , Lisak Grzegorz , Strzalkowska Sylwia , Bobacka Johan
Published: February 2014

This communication presents a new approach to potentiometric sensing utilizing paper-based microfluidic sampling and solid-contact electrodes.
Simultaneous determination of benzoylmesaconine and piperine in rat plasma after oral administration of Naru-3 by an ultra fast liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method and its application in a comparative pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Yin Yidi , Liu Jingjing , Xu Huarong , Lv Chunxiao , Du Yiyang , Li Qing , Bi Kaishun
Published: February 2014

A rapid, sensitive and reliable UFLC-MS/MS method has been developed for the simultaneous quantitation of benzoylmesaconine and piperine in rat plasma after oral administration of Naru-3.
Multiple interfaces in self-assembled breath figures
Authors: Wan Ling-Shu , Zhu Liang-Wei , Ou Yang , Xu Zhi-Kang
Published: February 2014

Progress in the breath figure method is reviewed by emphasizing the role of the multiple interfaces and the applications of honeycomb films in separation, biocatalysis, biosensing, templating, stimuli-responsive surfaces and adhesive surfaces.
Recent progress in metal–organic complexes for optoelectronic applications
Authors: Xu Hui , Chen Runfeng , Sun Qiang , Lai Wenyong , Su Qianqian , Huang Wei , Liu Xiaogang
Published: February 2014

This critical review reports recent advances in the development of metal–organic complexes for optoelectronic applications.
Synthesis, structure and valence-trapping vs. detrapping for new trinuclear iron pentafluoro benzoate complexes: possible recognition of organic molecules by 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy
Authors: Onaka Satoru , Sakai Yoichi , Ozeki Tomoji , Nakamoto Tadahiro , Kobayashi Yusuke , Takahashi Masashi , Ogiso Ryo , Takayama Tsutomu , Shiotsuka Michito
Published: February 2014

CH2Cl2 molecules trapped in the intermolecular nano-channels of the [Fe3O(C6F5CO2)6(py)3] crystal.
A combination of metabolic labeling and 2D-DIGE analysis in response to a farnesyltransferase inhibitor facilitates the discovery of new prenylated proteins
Authors: Palsuledesai Charuta C. , Ochocki Joshua D. , Markowski Todd W. , Distefano Mark D.
Published: February 2014

Prenylated proteins sensitive to farnesyltransferase inhibitor treatment were identified by combining metabolic labeling with 2D-DIGE. Using this method, GNAI-1 and GNAI-2 were identified as potential novel prenylated proteins.
Validation of host factors of HIV integration as novel drug targets for anti-HIV therapy
Authors: Debyser Zeger , Desimmie Belete A. , Taltynov Oliver , Demeulemeester Jonas , Christ Frauke
Published: February 2014

After identification and validation, viral protein/cellular co-factor interactions such as the HIV integrase-LEDGF/p75 interaction represent novel targets for antiviral drug development.
Infrared emitting quantum dots: DNA conjugation and DNA origami directed self-assembly
Authors: Samanta Anirban , Deng Zhengtao , Liu Yan
Published: February 2014

DNA conjugation of infrared emitting hydrophilic QDs and their organization site specifically onto DNA nanostructure.
The issue of ‘molecular radiators’ in microwave-assisted reactions. Computational calculations on ring closing metathesis (RCM)
Authors: Rodríguez A. M. , Prieto P. , de la Hoz A. , Díaz-Ortiz A. , García J. I.
Published: February 2014

Computational calculations on ring closing metathesis clarify the influence of molecular radiators in Microwave Assisted Organic Synthesis (MAOS).
High-performance n-channel field effect transistors based on solution-processed dicyanomethylene-substituted tetrathienoquinoid
Authors: Wu Qinghe , Qiao Xiaolan , Huang Qiuliu , Li Jie , Xiong Yu , Gao Xike , Li Hongxiang
Published: February 2014

A solution-processable tetrathienoquinoidal semiconductorCMHTwas synthesized and characterized, and the correlation between the molecular packing of theCMTHand transistor performance was studied.
Heterocyclic terpenes: linear furano- and pyrroloterpenoids
Authors: Wang Bin , Wang Lishu , Li Yinglei , Liu Yonghong
Published: February 2014

This review of furano- and pyrroloterpenoids covers the literature, 180 articles in all, published from January 2006 to December 2013.
Electrocatalytic CO2 reduction by M(bpy-R)(CO)4 (M = Mo, W; R = H, tBu) complexes. Electrochemical, spectroscopic, and computational studies and comparison with group 7 catalysts
Authors: Clark Melissa L. , Grice Kyle A. , Moore Curtis E. , Rheingold Arnold L. , Kubiak Clifford P.
Published: February 2014

Group 6 M(bpy-R)(CO)4 (M = Mo, W; R = H, tBu) complexes have been found to be competent electrocatalysts for CO2 reduction to CO.
Facile synthesis of phase-pure FeCr2Se4 and FeCr2S4 nanocrystals via a wet chemistry method
Authors: Mao Xiang , Lee Jaebeom
Published: February 2014

Two kinds of Fe-based ternary NCs have been synthesized through injecting different chemical precursors (Se and S) using a wet chemistry method. The NCs have different constructional morphologies, which are of quadrilateral shape (FeCr2Se4) and spherical shape (FeCr2S4), respectively. Additionally, I–V curves indicate that these two kinds of NCs have comparable conductivity to copper-based NCs used in solar cell applications.
Combinatorial solar cell libraries for the investigation of different metal back contacts for TiO2–Cu2O hetero-junction solar cells
Authors: Rühle S. , Barad H. N. , Bouhadana Y. , Keller D. A. , Ginsburg A. , Shimanovich K. , Majhi K. , Lovrincic R. , Anderson A. Y. , Zaban A.
Published: February 2014

A combinatorial solar cell device library approach is presented to investigate TiO2–Cu2O hetero-junction solar cells with different back contacts.
Direct synthesis of quinazolinones by acceptorless dehydrogenative coupling of o-aminobenzamide and alcohols by heterogeneous Pt catalysts
Authors: Hakim Siddiki S. M. A. , Kon Kenichi , Touchy Abeda Sultana , Shimizu Ken-ichi
Published: February 2014

HBEA supported Pt metal nanoclusters effectively catalyze direct dehydrogenative synthesis of quinazolinones from o-aminobenzamide and alcohols under promoter-free conditions.
Iron-catalyzed hydrosilylation of CO2: CO2 conversion to formamides and methylamines
Authors: Frogneux Xavier , Jacquet Olivier , Cantat Thibault
Published: February 2014

Catalytic hydrosilylation of CO2 is an efficient and selective approach to form chemicals. Herein, we describe the first iron catalysts able to promote the reductive functionalization of CO2 using hydrosilanes as reductants. Iron(ii) salts supported by phosphine donors enable the conversion of CO2 to formamide and methylamine derivatives under mild reaction conditions.
The structural diversity and photoluminescent properties of cadmium thiophenedicarboxylate coordination polymers
Authors: Xue Li-Ping , Chang Xin-Hong , Li Shi-Hui , Ma Lu-Fang , Wang Li-Ya
Published: February 2014

Two series of Cd(ii) CPs based on two positional isomeric thiophenedicarboxylic acids and N-donor ligands have been synthesized. Moreover, the thermal stability and photoluminescence properties of these complexes are investigated.
Reconfigurable microfluidics with integrated aptasensors for monitoring intercellular communication
Authors: Kwa Timothy , Zhou Qing , Gao Yandong , Rahimian Ali , Kwon Lydia , Liu Ying , Revzin Alexander
Published: February 2014

We report the development of a microsystem integrating anti-TNF-α aptasensors with vacuum-actuatable microfluidic devices for monitoring intercellular communications.
Ultrafine PDMS fibers: preparation from in situ curing-electrospinning and mechanical characterization
Authors: Niu Haitao , Wang Hongxia , Zhou Hua , Lin Tong
Published: February 2014

Ultrafine PDMS fibers with unexpectedly-high elasticity were prepared by core–shell electrospinning and in situ curing of PDMS in electrospun core–sheath nanofibers.
Synthesis and characteristics of novel, high-nitrogen 1,2,4-oxadiazoles
Authors: Fu Zhanda , Wang Yang , Yang Li , Su Rui , Chen Jun , Nie Fude , Huang Jinglun , Chen Fu-Xue
Published: February 2014

Two novel high-nitrogen energetic compounds AOG and AOG2Tz were prepared with good performance, high thermal stability and low impact sensitivity.
Copper-catalyzed alkene diamination: synthesis of chiral 2-aminomethyl indolines and pyrrolidines
Authors: Turnpenny Benjamin W. , Chemler Sherry R.
Published: February 2014

Enantioselective copper-catalyzed alkene diamination provides chiral 2-aminomethyl indolines and pyrrolidines via oxidative coupling of primary sulfonamides with N-sulfonyl-2-allylanilines and N-sulfonyl-4-pentenamines.
Tailoring Substrate Hydrophilicity Using Grafted Polypeptide Nanocoatings
Authors: Wibowo Steven Harris , Sulistio Adrian , Wong Edgar H. H. , Blencowe Anton , Qiao Greg G.
Published: February 2014

Peptide nanocoatings with tailored surface-wetting properties were formed on a range of organic (cellulose and cotton) and inorganic (glass) substrates via surface-initiated ring-opening polymerization of amino acid N-carboxyanhydride derivatives. The film thickness, surface roughness, and wettability can be tuned by controlling the polymerization time and the type of N-carboxyanhydride derivative used (i.e. lysine or valine). Whereas poly(l-lysine) coatings are hydrophilic, poly(l-valine) coatings exhibit water-repellent properties. The functional polypeptide nanocoatings can potentially be applied to waterproof woven fabrics, macromolecular separation technologies, biodiagnostic sensors, and sustained drug-release wound dressings.
Role of Pristine and Acid-Functionalized Fullerene on Breaking Dye Aggregates and its Impact on the Efficiency of Solar Cells
Authors: Shah Syed Mujtaba , Iqbal Zafar , Iqbal Muzaffar , Shahzad Naila , Hana Amina , Hussain Hazrat , Raheel Muhammad
Published: February 2014

Porphyrin dyes have an inherent tendency to aggregate. This leads to a self-quenching phenomenon that hinders electron transfer to the conduction band of semiconductors in dye-sensitized solar cells. Self-quenching adversely affects the efficiency of solar cells. Here, we report the interaction of porphyrin with pristine and acid-functionalized fullerene molecules on the surface of ZnO nanoparticles under chemisorbed conditions. Chemisorption of porphyrin only on ZnO nanoparticles instigates aggregation of the porphyrin molecules. These aggregates can be effectively broken by chemisorbing fullerene molecules on the surface of the ZnO nanoparticles. This is due to self-assembly formation processes because of porphyrin–fullerene interactions. The nanohybrid material, consisting of ZnO nanorods, acid-functionalized porphyrin, and fullerene derivatives, was characterized by UV–visible spectroscopy, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The material generates better performing dye-sensitized solar cells when compared with those fabricated from porphyrin-based photo-active material.
Synthesis and Crystal Structure of Oxygen-deficient Bilayer Ruthenate Sr3Ru2O7–δ
Authors: Martínez-Anaya Oliver , García-Valdés Jesús , de la Mora Pablo , Tavizón Gustavo
Published: February 2014

The structural properties of oxygen-deficient Ruddlesden–Popper-type Sr3Ru2O7–δ compounds are presented. Sr3Ru2O7–δ compounds (δ = 0.17, 0.23, 0.28, 0.40, and 0.47) were obtained by hydrogen reduction of the parent Sr3Ru2O7 ruthenate. Rietveld structure refinements were performed to determine the crystal structure of the reduced compounds. Oxygen deficiency in the samples was studied by redox titrations and the Ru3+ content was confirmed by electron paramagnetic resonance. Magnetisation measurements were performed to study the magnetic response of the reduced phases. Removal of the oxygen atoms from the parent compound resulted in the decrease of the c-lattice parameter and increase of the a-lattice parameter that is related to partial reduction of Ru4+, in Sr3Ru2O7, to Ru3+. Rietveld analyses showed that the apical oxygen atoms of the RuO6 octahedra were partially lost during reduction. Redox titration experiments showed a linear correlation between reduction of the compounds and the annealing time under H2.
TAK1 kinase switches cell fate from apoptosis to necrosis following TNF stimulation
Authors: Morioka Sho , Broglie Peter , Omori Emily , Ikeda Yuka , Takaesu Giichi , Matsumoto Kunihiro , Ninomiya-Tsuji Jun
Published: February 2014

TNF activates three distinct intracellular signaling cascades leading to cell survival, caspase-8–mediated apoptosis, or receptor interacting protein kinase 3 (RIPK3)–dependent necrosis, also called necroptosis. Depending on the cellular context, one of these pathways is activated upon TNF challenge. When caspase-8 is activated, it drives the apoptosis cascade and blocks RIPK3-dependent necrosis. Here we report the biological event switching to activate necrosis over apoptosis. TAK1 kinase is normally transiently activated upon TNF stimulation. We found that prolonged and hyperactivation of TAK1 induced phosphorylation and activation of RIPK3, leading to necrosis without caspase activation. In addition, we also demonstrated that activation of RIPK1 and RIPK3 promoted TAK1 activation, suggesting a positive feedforward loop of RIPK1, RIPK3, and TAK1. Conversely, ablation of TAK1 caused caspase-dependent apoptosis, in which Ripk3 deletion did not block cell death either in vivo or in vitro. Our results reveal that TAK1 activation drives RIPK3-dependent necrosis and inhibits apoptosis. TAK1 acts as a switch between apoptosis and necrosis.
Peroxisomal Atg37 binds Atg30 or palmitoyl-CoA to regulate phagophore formation during pexophagy
Authors: Nazarko Taras Y. , Ozeki Katharine , Till Andreas , Ramakrishnan Geetha , Lotfi Pouya , Yan Mingda , Subramani Suresh
Published: February 2014

Autophagy is a membrane trafficking pathway that sequesters proteins and organelles into autophagosomes. The selectivity of this pathway is determined by autophagy receptors, such as the Pichia pastoris autophagy-related protein 30 (Atg30), which controls the selective autophagy of peroxisomes (pexophagy) through the assembly of a receptor protein complex (RPC). However, how the pexophagic RPC is regulated for efficient formation of the phagophore, an isolation membrane that sequesters the peroxisome from the cytosol, is unknown. Here we describe a new, conserved acyl-CoA–binding protein, Atg37, that is an integral peroxisomal membrane protein required specifically for pexophagy at the stage of phagophore formation. Atg30 recruits Atg37 to the pexophagic RPC, where Atg37 regulates the recruitment of the scaffold protein, Atg11. Palmitoyl-CoA competes with Atg30 for Atg37 binding. The human orthologue of Atg37, acyl-CoA–binding domain containing protein 5 (ACBD5), is also peroxisomal and is required specifically for pexophagy. We suggest that Atg37/ACBD5 is a new component and positive regulator of the pexophagic RPC.
Rho GTPase and Shroom direct planar polarized actomyosin contractility during convergent extension
Authors: Simões Sérgio de Matos , Mainieri Avantika , Zallen Jennifer A.
Published: February 2014

Actomyosin contraction generates mechanical forces that influence cell and tissue structure. During convergent extension in Drosophila melanogaster, the spatially regulated activity of the myosin activator Rho-kinase promotes actomyosin contraction at specific planar cell boundaries to produce polarized cell rearrangement. The mechanisms that direct localized Rho-kinase activity are not well understood. We show that Rho GTPase recruits Rho-kinase to adherens junctions and is required for Rho-kinase planar polarity. Shroom, an asymmetrically localized actin- and Rho-kinase–binding protein, amplifies Rho-kinase and myosin II planar polarity and junctional localization downstream of Rho signaling. In Shroom mutants, Rho-kinase and myosin II achieve reduced levels of planar polarity, resulting in decreased junctional tension, a disruption of multicellular rosette formation, and defective convergent extension. These results indicate that Rho GTPase activity is required to establish a planar polarized actomyosin network, and the Shroom actin-binding protein enhances myosin contractility locally to generate robust mechanical forces during axis elongation.
PIP3-dependent macropinocytosis is incompatible with chemotaxis
Authors: Veltman Douwe M. , Lemieux Michael G. , Knecht David A. , Insall Robert H.
Published: February 2014

In eukaryotic chemotaxis, the mechanisms connecting external signals to the motile apparatus remain unclear. The role of the lipid phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PIP3) has been particularly controversial. PIP3 has many cellular roles, notably in growth control and macropinocytosis as well as cell motility. Here we show that PIP3 is not only unnecessary for Dictyostelium discoideum to migrate toward folate, but actively inhibits chemotaxis. We find that macropinosomes, but not pseudopods, in growing cells are dependent on PIP3. PIP3 patches in these cells show no directional bias, and overall only PIP3-free pseudopods orient up-gradient. The pseudopod driver suppressor of cAR mutations (SCAR)/WASP and verprolin homologue (WAVE) is not recruited to the center of PIP3 patches, just the edges, where it causes macropinosome formation. Wild-type cells, unlike the widely used axenic mutants, show little macropinocytosis and few large PIP3 patches, but migrate more efficiently toward folate. Tellingly, folate chemotaxis in axenic cells is rescued by knocking out phosphatidylinositide 3-kinases (PI 3-kinases). Thus PIP3 promotes macropinocytosis and interferes with pseudopod orientation during chemotaxis of growing cells.
CDK phosphorylation of SLD-2 is required for replication initiation and germline development in C. elegans
Authors: Gaggioli Vincent , Zeiser Eva , Rivers David , Bradshaw Charles R. , Ahringer Julie , Zegerman Philip
Published: February 2014

Cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) plays a vital role in proliferation control across eukaryotes. Despite this, how CDK mediates cell cycle and developmental transitions in metazoa is poorly understood. In this paper, we identify orthologues of Sld2, a CDK target that is important for DNA replication in yeast, and characterize SLD-2 in the nematode worm Caenorhabditis elegans. We demonstrate that SLD-2 is required for replication initiation and the nuclear retention of a critical component of the replicative helicase CDC-45 in embryos. SLD-2 is a CDK target in vivo, and phosphorylation regulates the interaction with another replication factor, MUS-101. By mutation of the CDK sites in sld-2, we show that CDK phosphorylation of SLD-2 is essential in C. elegans. Finally, using a phosphomimicking sld-2 mutant, we demonstrate that timely CDK phosphorylation of SLD-2 is an important control mechanism to allow normal proliferation in the germline. These results determine an essential function of CDK in metazoa and identify a developmental role for regulated SLD-2 phosphorylation.
Protecting the proteome: Eukaryotic cotranslational quality control pathways
Authors: Lykke-Andersen Jens , Bennett Eric J.
Published: February 2014

The correct decoding of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) into proteins is an essential cellular task. The translational process is monitored by several quality control (QC) mechanisms that recognize defective translation complexes in which ribosomes are stalled on substrate mRNAs. Stalled translation complexes occur when defects in the mRNA template, the translation machinery, or the nascent polypeptide arrest the ribosome during translation elongation or termination. These QC events promote the disassembly of the stalled translation complex and the recycling and/or degradation of the individual mRNA, ribosomal, and/or nascent polypeptide components, thereby clearing the cell of improper translation products and defective components of the translation machinery.
Relocation of Papillary Muscles for Ischemic Mitral Valve Regurgitation
Authors: Fattouch Khalil , Castrovinci Sebastiano , Murana Giacomo , Dioguardi Pietro , Guccione Francesco , Bianco Giuseppe , Nasso Giuseppe , Speziale Giuseppe
Published: February 2014

Objective

The assessment of the mitral valve apparatus (MVA) and its modifications during ischemic mitral regurgitation (IMR) is better performed by three-dimensional (3D) transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). The aim of our study was to carry out nonrestrictive mitral annuloplasty in addition to relocation of papillary muscles (PPMs) oriented by preoperative real-time 3D TEE through the mitral valve quantification dedicated software.

Methods

Since January 2008, a total of 70 patients with severe IMR were examined both before and after mitral valve repair. The mean (SD) coaptation depth and the mean (SD) tenting area were 1.4 (0.4) cm and 3.2 (0.5) cm2, respectively. Intraoperative 3D TEE was performed, followed by a 3D offline reconstruction of the MVA. A schematic MVA model was obtained, and a geometric model as a “truncated cone” was traced according to preoperative data. The expected truncated cone after annuloplasty was retraced. A conventional normal coaptation depth of approximately 6 mm was used to detect the new position of the PPMs tips.

Results

Perioperative offline reconstruction of the MVA and the respective truncated cone was feasible in all patients. The expected position of the PPMs tips, desirable to reach a normal tenting area with a coaptation depth of 6 mm or more, was obtained in all patients. After surgery, all parameters were calculated, and no statistically significant difference was found compared with the expected data.

Conclusions

Relocation of PPMs plus ring annuloplasty reduce mitral valve tenting and may improve mitral valve repair results in patients with severe IMR. This technique may be easily and precisely guided by preoperative offline 3D echocardiographic mitral valve reconstruction.
Viruses and fullerenes – symmetry as a common thread?
Authors: Dechant Pierre-Philippe , Wardman Jess , Keef Tom , Twarock Reidun
Published: February 2014

The principle of affine symmetry is applied here to the nested fullerene cages (carbon onions) that arise in the context of carbon chemistry. Previous work on affine extensions of the icosahedral group has revealed a new organizational principle in virus structure and assembly. This group-theoretic framework is adapted here to the physical requirements dictated by carbon chemistry, and it is shown that mathematical models for carbon onions can be derived within this affine symmetry approach. This suggests the applicability of affine symmetry in a wider context in nature, as well as offering a novel perspective on the geometric principles underpinning carbon chemistry.