bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dissociation of innate immune responses in microglia infected with Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Frande‐Cabanes Elisabet , Fernandez‐Prieto Lorena , Calderon‐Gonzalez Ricardo , Rodríguez‐Del Río Estela , Yañez‐Diaz Sonsoles , López‐Fanarraga Monica , Alvarez‐Domínguez Carmen
Published: December 2013

Microglia, the innate immune cells of the brain, plays a central role in cerebral listeriosis. Here, we present evidence that microglia control Listeria infection differently than macrophages. Infection of primary microglial cultures and murine cell lines with Listeria resulted in a dual function of the two gene expression programmes involved in early and late immune responses in macrophages. Whereas the bacterial gene hly seems responsible for both transcriptional programmes in macrophages, Listeria induces in microglia only the tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐regulated transcriptional programme. Listeria also represses in microglia the late immune response gathered in two clusters, microbial degradation, and interferon (IFN)‐inducible genes. The bacterial gene actA was required in microglia to induce TNF‐regulated responses and to repress the late response. Isolation of microglial phagosomes revealed a phagosomal environment unable to destroy Listeria. Microglial phagosomes were also defective in several signaling and trafficking components reported as relevant for Listeria innate immune responses. This transcriptional strategy in microglia induced high levels of TNF‐α and monocyte chemotactic protein‐1 and low production of other neurotoxic compounds such as nitric oxide, hydrogen peroxide, and Type I IFNs. These cytokines and toxic microglial products are also released by primary microglia, and this cytokine and chemokine cocktail display a low potential to trigger neuronal apoptosis. This overall bacterial strategy strongly suggests that microglia limit Listeria inflammation pattern exclusively through TNF‐mediated responses to preserve brain integrity. GLIA 2014;62:233–246
Infusing Personal Responsibility into the Curriculum and Cocurriculum: Campus Examples
Authors: O'Neill Nancy
Published: December 2013

This chapter highlights good practices and lessons learned for infusing personal responsibility—striving for excellence, cultivating academic integrity, and developing competence in ethical and moral reasoning and action—as outcomes of college.
Infusing Social Responsibility into the Curriculum and Cocurriculum: Campus Examples
Authors: Reason Robert D.
Published: December 2013

This chapter highlights good practices and lessons learned for infusing social responsibility—contributing to the larger community and taking seriously the perspectives of others—as outcomes of college.
Cross‐Border Debt Adjustment – Open Questions in European Insolvency Proceedings
Authors: Linna Tuula
Published: December 2013

At present, 18 European Union member states have some form of legislation on adjustment of the debts of a private individual. Only half of these debt adjustment proceedings are mentioned in Annex A of the European Insolvency Regulation (EIR) and therefore fall within the scope of it. As most of the debt adjustment proceedings are not included in the scope of the Brussels I Regulation, there is a regulatory gap in the European insolvency proceedings with unpleasant impacts on the free movement of labour. Fortunately, changes are coming, in the form of the EIR reform.

In order to bring debt adjustment within the scope of the EIR, the Commission proposes to loosen the prerequisite concerning the legal effects, which the opening of the proceedings has on the debtor. Regarding the jurisdiction to open main proceedings, the Commission proposes that COMI (the debtor's centre of main interests) would be the place of habitual residence. The open question is, whether residency requires a certain continuity or stability. This issue is discussed in the paper taking into account recent Court of Justice of the European Union case law.

The challenge of the EIR reform is that only provisions on scope and jurisdiction have been modified as to debt adjustment. One may ask, e.g. when the prerequisites concerning the opening of secondary proceedings are fulfilled if the debtor is a private individual. Copyright © 2013 INSOL International and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Methylomics analysis identifies epigenetically silenced genes and implies an activation of β‐catenin signaling in cervical cancer
Authors: Chen Yu‐Chih , Huang Rui‐Lan , Huang Yung‐Kai , Liao Yu‐Ping , Su Po‐Hsuan , Wang Hui‐Chen , Chang Cheng‐Chang , Lin Ya‐Wen , Yu Mu‐Hsien , Chu Tang‐Yuan , Lai Hung‐Cheng
Published: December 2013

Using DNA methylation biomarkers in cancer detection is a potential direction in clinical testing. Some methylated genes have been proposed for cervical cancer detection; however, more reliable methylation markers are needed. To identify new hypermethylated genes in the discovery phase, we compared the methylome between a pool of DNA from normal cervical epithelium (n = 19) and a pool of DNA from cervical cancer tissues (n = 38) using a methylation bead array. We integrated the differentially methylated genes with public gene expression databases, which resulted in 91 candidate genes. Based on gene expression after demethylation treatment in cell lines, we confirmed 61 genes for further validation. In the validation phase, quantitative MSP and bisulfite pyrosequencing were used to examine their methylation level in an independent set of clinical samples. Fourteen genes, including ADRA1D, AJAP1, COL6A2, EDN3, EPO, HS3ST2, MAGI2, POU4F3, PTGDR, SOX8, SOX17, ST6GAL2, SYT9, and ZNF614, were significantly hypermethylated in CIN3+ lesions. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of POU4F3 for detecting CIN3+ lesions were 0.88, 0.82, and 0.85, respectively. A bioinformatics function analysis revealed that AJAP1, EDN3, EPO, MAGI2, and SOX17 were potentially implicated in β‐catenin signaling, suggesting the epigenetic dysregulation of this signaling pathway during cervical cancer development. The concurrent methylation of multiple genes in cancers and in subsets of precancerous lesions suggests the presence of a driver of methylation phenotype in cervical carcinogenesis. Further validation of these new genes as biomarkers for cervical cancer screening in a larger population‐based study is warranted.
Doctoral Oral Examinations and Contemporary Counselor Education: Are They Compatible?
Authors: McAdams Charles R. , Robertson Derek L. , Foster Victoria A.
Published: December 2013

This descriptive study examined 160 former students' perceptions of one assessment tradition in counselor education: the doctoral oral examination. The findings suggest that oral examinations continue to have substantive value for students, but changes are needed to ensure their future objectivity, transparency, and regard for students' rights as consumers.
An individual's work values in career development
Authors: Choi Bo Young , Kim Boram , Jang Sun Hee , Jung Sun Hwa , Ahn Sung Sik , Lee Sang Min , Gysbers Norm
Published: December 2013

This study examined the mediation effect of career decision self‐efficacy in relation to work values and career decision status. The authors surveyed 308 college students about their own intrinsic (e.g., helping others) and extrinsic (e.g., high income) work values and those of significant others, career decision self‐efficacy, and career decision status. The results indicated that the intrinsic and extrinsic work values of significant others were related to the intrinsic and extrinsic work values of the self and that intrinsic work values were more adaptive than extrinsic work values in career development.
Divergent palate morphology in turtles and birds correlates with differences in proliferation and BMP2 expression during embryonic development
Authors: Abramyan John , Leung Kelvin Jia‐Mien , Richman Joy Marion
Published: December 2013

During embryonic development, amniotes typically form outgrowths from the medial sides of the maxillary prominences called palatal shelves or palatine processes. In mammals the shelves fuse in the midline and form a bony hard palate that completely separates the nasal and oral cavities. In birds and lizards, palatine processes develop but remain unfused, leaving a natural cleft. Adult turtles do not possess palatine processes and unlike other amniotes, the internal nares open into the oral cavity. Here we investigate craniofacial ontogeny in the turtle, Emydura subglobosa to determine whether vestigial palatine processes develop and subsequently regress, or whether development fails entirely. We found that the primary palate in turtles develops similarly to other amniotes, but secondary palate ontogeny diverges. Using histology, cellular dynamics and in situ hybridization we found no evidence of palatine process development at any time during ontogeny of the face in the turtle. Furthermore, detailed comparisons with chicken embryos (the model organism most closely related to turtles from a molecular phylogeny perspective), we identified differences in proliferation and gene expression patterns that correlate with the differences in palate morphology. We propose that, in turtles, palatine process outgrowth is never initiated due to a lack of mesenchymal bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) expression in the maxillary mesenchyme, which in turn fails to induce the relatively higher cellular proliferation required for medial tissue outgrowth. It is likely that these differences between turtles and birds arose after the divergence of the lineage leading to modern turtles. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 322B: 73–85, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Steric and Electronic Factors Influence Regio‐isomeric Thiazole Formations Between Substituted Benzothioamides and Ethyl Bromopyruvate
Authors: Liang Jun , Soucy Valerie Dorman , Tusi Vickie , Liu Yanzhou , Zhang Birong , Lai Yingjie , Magnuson Steve , Zhu Bingyan , Wang Fangdao , Gu Jinghao , Zhang Qingfen , Wu Yuan , Deng Wei , Yang Wenqian
Published: December 2013

We observed unexpected thiazole 1B formation when 2,6‐dichlorobenzothioamide 1 and ethyl bromopyruvate were reacted under basic conditions at elevated temperatures in ethanol. Thiazole 1B, regio‐isomeric to that expected under conventional Hantzsch conditions, was extensively characterized and later confirmed by single crystal X‐ray structure. We carried out this transformation with several substituted benzothioamides and found that the formation of the unexpected thiazole regio‐isomer was highly dependent on the steric as well as the electronic characteristics of the ortho‐substituents on the phenyl ring. A mechanism to account for this novel transformation was proposed.
Quick diagnosis units—an effective alternative to hospitalization for diagnostic workup: A systematic review
Authors: Gupta Shweta , Sukhal Shashvat , Agarwal Rajender , Das Krishna
Published: December 2013

INTRODUCTION

This era of healthcare reform emphasizes improving value of care. Inpatient admissions for diagnostic evaluation put economic pressure on an already strained healthcare system. We conducted a systematic review of effectiveness of quick diagnosis units (QDUs), an established outpatient model for early diagnostic workups in Europe.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE and Embase for studies that focused on implementation of quick/rapid diagnosis units, with relevant Medical Subject Headings terms and keywords. Of 2047 studies, we selected 13 for full‐text screening and bibliography review. Of these, 5 studies included at least 2 primary outcomes of interest and were included in our review. These units functioned as outpatient clinics, staffed by internists, nurses, and clerical staff, with expedited scheduling of outpatient diagnostic tests. Our primary outcome measures were final diagnosis, the mean time to final diagnosis, inpatient bed‐days saved per patient, and costs saved per patient. We also studied discharge disposition, care preferences, and safety data.

RESULTS

About 18% to 30% of patients were diagnosed with malignancy, with an average time to diagnosis of 6 to 11 days. Inpatient bed‐days saved per patient ranged from 4.5 to 7. Savings from fixed costs of hospitalization ranged from $2336(€1764) to $3304(€2514) for each patient enrolled in the protocol. The QDU model was preferred by 88% of patients, and patient satisfaction rates were 95% to 97%.

CONCLUSIONS

QDUs seem an effective and cost‐saving alternative to inpatient hospitalization, and appear to be a safe approach for diagnostic workup of potentially severe diseases in select patient populations, although there are limited safety data available. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2014;9:54–59. © 2013 Society of Hospital Medicine
Specificity enhancement by electrospray ionization multistage mass spectrometry – a valuable tool for differentiation and identification of ‘V’‐type chemical warfare agents
Authors: Weissberg Avi , Tzanani Nitzan , Dagan Shai
Published: December 2013

The use of chemical warfare agents has become an issue of emerging concern. One of the challenges in analytical monitoring of the extremely toxic ‘V’‐type chemical weapons [O‐alkyl S‐(2‐dialkylamino)ethyl alkylphosphonothiolates] is to distinguish and identify compounds of similar structure. MS analysis of these compounds reveals mostly fragment/product ions representing the amine‐containing residue. Hence, isomers or derivatives with the same amine residue exhibit similar mass spectral patterns in both classical EI/MS and electrospray ionization‐MS, leading to unavoidable ambiguity in the identification of the phosphonate moiety. A set of five ‘V’‐type agents, including O‐ethyl S‐(2‐diisopropylamino)ethyl methylphosphonothiolate (VX), O‐isobutyl S‐(2‐diethylamino)ethyl methylphosphonothiolate (RVX) and O‐ethyl S‐(2‐diethylamino)ethyl methylphosphonothiolate (VM) were studied by liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization/MS, utilizing a QTRAP mass detector. MS/MS enhanced product ion scans and multistage MS3 experiments were carried out. Based on the results, possible fragmentation pathways were proposed, and a method for the differentiation and identification of structural isomers and derivatives of ‘V’‐type chemical warfare agents was obtained. MS/MS enhanced product ion scans at various collision energies provided information‐rich spectra, although many of the product ions obtained were at low abundance. Employing MS3 experiments enhanced the selectivity for those low abundance product ions and provided spectra indicative of the different phosphonate groups. Study of the fragmentation pathways, revealing some less expected structures, was carried out and allowed the formulation of mechanistic rules and the determination of sets of ions typical of specific groups, for example, methylphosphonothiolates versus ethylphosphonothiolates. The new group‐specific ions elucidated in this work are also useful for screening unknown ‘V’‐type agents and related compounds, utilizing precursor ion scan experiments. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
GC–MS combined with chemometric techniques for the quality control and original discrimination of Curcumae longae rhizome: Analysis of essential oils
Authors: Hu Yichen , Kong Weijun , Yang Xihui , Xie Liwei , Wen Jing , Yang Meihua
Published: December 2013

Curcumae longae rhizome is a widely used traditional herb in many countries. Various geographical origins of this herb might lead to diversity or instability of the herbal quality. The objective of this work was to establish the chemical fingerprints for quality control and find the chemical markers for discriminating these herbs from different origins. First, chemical fingerprints of essential oil of 24 C. longae rhizome from four different geographical origins in China were determined by GC–MS. Then, pattern recognition techniques were introduced to analyze these abundant chemical data in depth; hierarchical cluster analysis was used to sort samples into groups by measuring their similarities, and principal component analysis and partial least‐squares discriminate analysis were applied to find the main chemical markers for discriminating these samples. Curcumae longae rhizome from Guangxi province had the highest essential oil yield (4.32 ± 1.45%). A total of 46 volatile compounds were identified in total. Consistent results were obtained to show that C. longae rhizome samples could be successfully grouped according to their origins, and turmerone, ar‐turmerone, and zingiberene were the characteristic components for discriminating these samples of various geographical origins and for quality control. This finding revealed that fingerprinting analysis based on GC–MS coupled with chemometric techniques could provide a reliable platform to discriminate herbs from different origins, which is a benefit for quality control.
Hearing loss following ventriculoperitoneal shunt in communicating hydrocephalus patients: A pilot study
Authors: Lim Hyun Woo , Shim Byoung Soo , Yang Chan Joo , Kim Jeong Hoon , Cho Young Hyun , Cho Yang‐Sun , Kong Doo‐Sik , Koo Ja‐Won , Han Jung‐Ho , Chung Jong Woo
Published: December 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Hearing loss can be associated with a decrease in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure because changes in CSF pressure induce changes in perilymph pressure. Hearing loss after neurosurgical procedures have been reported, but clinical information on hearing loss after the placement of ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunts, the most commonly used CSF shunt for hydrocephalus patients, is limited. This study is aimed to show the relationship between VP shunt and hearing loss.

Study Design

Prospective study.

Methods

Pure tone threshold and electrocochleography were preoperatively performed in nine patients (18 ears) undergoing elective VP shunt placement. Five‐day and 1‐month post‐shunt placement hearing thresholds were compared with baseline data. A correlation analysis was conducted between the threshold and summating potential/action potential (SP/AP) ratio changes at 5 days and 1 month after shunt placement. Cochlear aqueduct dimensions measured by high‐resolution CT were compared between ears with and without hearing loss.

Results

About 40% of subject ears showed hearing loss with a threshold elevation of at least 15 dB in one or more frequencies. After VP shunt placement, the mean threshold of all ears showed a significant increase in most frequencies and the pure tone average. The change in the SP/AP ratios was significantly correlated with the change in the pure tone average at both 5 days and 1 month after shunt placement. Cochlear aqueduct dimensions were not correlated with hearing loss occurrence.

Conclusions

Hearing thresholds may increase following VP shunt placement, possibly due to secondary endolymphatic hydrops.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 124:1923–1927, 2014
Making the Most of Culture Clash in M&A
Authors: Lee Marks Mitchell , Mirvis Philip , Ashkenas Ron
Published: December 2013

Merging different corporate cultures after mergers, so often a point of contention, can actually be a source of strength; according to Marks, Mirvis, and Ashkenas. There are predictable steps in a culture clash, in which the two companies perceive and magnify differences, engage in the labeling of stereotypes, and offer put‐downs. Managing culture clashes requires six specific steps: (1) assess cultural fit during due diligence, (2) clarify the cultural end‐state, (3) educate people on culture clash, (4) engage in deep cultural learning, (5) end the old culture to get to the new one, and (6) align HR practices with the desired new culture.
Invariant surfaces in the homogeneous space Sol with constant curvature
Authors: López Rafael , Munteanu Marian Ioan
Published: December 2013

A surface in homogeneous space is said to be an invariant surface if it is invariant under some of the two 1‐parameter groups of isometries of the ambient space whose fix point sets are totally geodesic surfaces. In this work we study invariant surfaces that satisfy a certain condition on their curvatures. We classify invariant surfaces with constant mean curvature and constant Gaussian curvature. Also, we characterize invariant surfaces that satisfy a linear Weingarten relation.
Main‐Chain Supramolecular Polymers Based on Orthogonal Benzo‐21‐Crown‐7/Secondary Ammonium Salt and Terpyridine/Metal Ion Recognition Motifs
Authors: Tian Yu‐Kui , Wang Feng
Published: December 2013

Orthogonal self‐assembly of multiple components represents an efficient strategy to afford hierarchical and multifunctional assemblies. Here, we demonstrate the orthogonal recognition behaviors between benzo‐21‐crown‐7/secondary ammonium salt and terpyridine/metal ions (Fe2+ or Zn2+) recognition motifs. Main‐chain supramolecular polymers are subsequently achieved via “one‐pot” mixing of the three monomers together (heteroditopic monomer 1, homoditopic secondary ammonium salt monomer 2, and Fe(BF4)2•6H2O or Zn(OTf)2), which are confirmed by 1H NMR, UV–Vis, DOSY, and viscosity measurements. Moreover, different metal ions (Fe2+ or Zn2+) exert considerable effects on the size of the resulting supramolecular polymers. Integration of two different types of non‐covalent interactions renders dynamic and responsive properties for the resulting supramolecular polymers, as triggered by a variety of external stimuli such as temperature, potassium cation, as well as stronger chelating ligands. Therefore, the current work is a prerequisite for the future application of such orthogonal assemblies as intelligent supramolecular materials.

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Effects of a novel MC4R agonist on maintenance of reduced body weight in diet‐induced obese mice
Authors: Skowronski Alicja A. , Morabito Michael V. , Mueller Bridget R. , Lee Samuel , Hjorth Stephan , Lehmann Anders , Watanabe Kazuhisa , Zeltser Lori M. , Ravussin Yann , Rosenbaum Michael , LeDuc Charles A. , Leibel Rudolph L.
Published: December 2013

Objective

The physiology of the weight‐reduced (WR) state suggests that pharmacologic agents affecting energy homeostasis may have greater efficacy in WR individuals. Our aim was to establish a protocol that allows for evaluation of efficacy of weight maintenance agents and to assess the effectiveness of AZD2820, a novel melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) agonist in such a paradigm.

Methods

MC4R agonist was administered in stratified doses to mice who were either fed high‐fat diet ad libitum (AL) throughout the study; or stabilized at a 20% reduced body weight (BW), administered the drug for 4 weeks, and thereafter released from caloric restriction while continuing to receive the drug (WR).

Results

After release of WR mice to AL feeding, the high‐dose group (53.4 nmol/day) regained 12.4% less BW than their vehicle‐treated controls since the beginning of drug treatment. In WR mice, 10.8 nmol/day of the agonist was sufficient to maintain these animals at 95.1% of initial BW versus 53.4 nmol/day required to maintain the BW of AL animals (94.5%).

Conclusions

In the WR state, the MC4R agonist was comparably efficacious to a five‐fold higher dose in the AL state. This protocol provides a model for evaluating the mechanisms and quantitative efficacy of weight‐maintenance strategies and agents.
Innovative Raman Sampling
Authors: Mattley Yvette , Allen Michael W.
Published: December 2013

Conventional portable and handheld Raman systems are based on a dispersive design. The drawback of this design is the tradeoff between laser spot size and resolution. Most conventional instruments have a very small laser spot size. This tightly focused beam produces high resolution but may miss the target material completely. Increasing the sampling area using a large beam requires a larger aperture and consequently, a corresponding loss of resolution, making accurate library matching difficult and prone to error.
Imaging of Living Embryos
Authors: Briggs Stephan
Published: December 2013

Multiphoton Microscopy is an advanced imaging technique for biological material that differs from standard confocal approaches. Multiphoton systems are the preferred choice for living, cellular imaging as it utilizes longer infrared wavelengths for excitation as opposed to shorter UV blue wavelengths that are more harmful to cellular tissue. This is done by taking advantage of the vibrational energy states of living tissue and results in an emission signal that is shorter than the excitation wavelengths. Multiphoton microscopy does not have the level of resolution that confocal microscopy has, but users are able to image deeper into living specimens which is extremely beneficial for non‐invasive biopsies performed in vivo. One application that truly demonstrates the benefits and differences between the two techniques is the imaging and analysis of living embryos.
Fluid Flows under Investigation
Authors: Trescher Bert , Wehrstein‐Kuhnen Christine
Published: December 2013

Particle image velocimetry (PIV) is a non‐contact optical measurement technology for flow measurement and the visualization of complete flow fields in fluid mechanics. It is used in wind tunnels and flow channels, increasingly in medical technology, and all areas that require non‐contact, non‐deflecting assessment of fluid flow directions and velocities. Laser Doppler velocimetry (LDV) – or LDA (laser Doppler anemometry) – is also a non‐contact technique, but in contrast to PIV, it has its main applications in the in‐situ detection of fluid flow via Doppler shift. Besides research applications, the main fields of utilization include calibration of sensors and flow measurements.
Chemical proteomic strategies for the discovery and development of anticancer drugs
Authors: Liu Yuanzhen , Guo Mingquan
Published: December 2013

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death globally. Drug discovery and development against cancer is thus among the most pursuing goals nowadays. Although the majority of anticancer drugs targeted on proteins, the identification and validation of drug targets and their regulated pathways remain a bottleneck in the drug R&D processes. Fortunately, chemical proteomic strategies based on the perfect combination of various targeted affinity chromatography and high‐throughput MS analysis have emerged as a powerful tool for the large‐scale identification of proteome‐wide drug–protein interactions, and demonstrated great promise in elucidating complex underlying mechanisms of drug action against cancers. In this context, an updated overview of the chemical proteomic strategies, such as activity‐based protein profiling (ABPP), compound‐centric chemical proteomics (CCCP), and other targeted affinity chromatographic approaches for modern anticancer drug discovery and development will be provided. Some most recent successful applications in this area will be highlighted. Future perspectives on this subject will also be discussed with a particular emphasis on small molecule natural products and their derivatives.
Distortion of homeostatic signaling proteins by simulated microgravity in rat hypothalamus: A16O/18O‐labeled comparative integrated proteomic approach
Authors: Iqbal Javed , Li Wang , Hasan Murtaza , Juan Li Yu , Ullah Kaleem , Yun Wang , Awan Umer , Qing Hong , Deng Yulin
Published: December 2013

Microgravity generates oxidative stress in central nervous system, causing distortion of various vital signaling cascades involved in many homeostatic functions. Here, we performed comparative 16O/18O labeled integrated proteomic strategy to observe the differential expression of signaling proteins involved in homeostasis. In this study, rat‐tail suspension model is employed to induce simulated microgravity in CNS. By wide proteomic analysis, total of 35 and 97 significantly differentially expressed proteins were found by HPLC/ESI‐TOF and HPLC‐Q‐TOF analysis, respectively. Among the total of 132 proteins quantified, 25 proteins were found related to various signaling cascades. Protein Thy‐1, 14‐3‐3 gamma, 14‐3‐3 epsilon, 14‐3‐3 theta, 14‐3‐3 eta, and 14‐3‐3 beta/alpha proteins, calmodulin and calcium/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase type‐II subunit beta were found upregulated under the influence of simulated microgravity. These proteins are found involved in disrupting homeostatic pathways like sleep/wake cycle, drinking behavior, hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenocortical regulation and fight and/or flee actions under stress. Furthermore, MS results for protein Thy‐1 were verified by Western blot analysis showing the quantification accuracy of MS instruments. Results presented here will serve as means to understand the mechanism of action of microgravity and further reference for future detailed study of consequences of microgravity on astronauts and their possible countermeasures.
Silver Salt of 4,6‐Diazido‐N‐nitro‐1,3,5‐triazine‐2‐amine – Characterization of this Primary Explosive
Authors: Musil Tomáš , Matyáš Robert , Vala Roman , Růžička Aleš , Vlček Milan
Published: December 2013

A new primary explosive, the silver salt of 4,6‐diazido‐N‐nitro‐1,3,5‐triazine‐2‐amine (AgDANT), was synthesized and characterized. AgDANT was prepared with a 97 % yield and characterized by IR spectroscopy, single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, and DTA. The crystal density of AgDANT is 2.530 g cm−3 and the molecule consists of a centro‐symmetric dimer with a high degree of planarity. The intramolecular AgAg distance is relatively low (331 pm) and can be considered as a strong argentophilic interaction. AgDANT is non‐hygroscopic and its solubility in water (1.27 mg in 100 mL at 23 °C) is on a similar level of solubility to that of silver azide. The sensitivity of AgDANT to impact is slightly higher than that for MF, sensitivity to friction is the same as for LA, and sensitivity to electric discharge is between that for LS and MF. Initiation efficiency of AgDANT was tested in electric detonators and compared to dextrinated lead azide (initiation efficiency of AgDANT is 40 mg for PETN secondary charge). The thermal resistance of detonators with AgDANT is satisfactory; all detonators were fully functional after exposure at 65 °C (30 d) and 85 °C (2 d).
Multilevel structural characteristics for the natural substrate proteins of bacterial small heat shock proteins
Authors: Fu Xinmiao , Chang Zengyi , Shi Xiaodong , Bu Dongbo , Wang Chao
Published: December 2013

Small heat shock proteins (sHSPs) are ubiquitous molecular chaperones that prevent the aggregation of various non‐native proteins and play crucial roles for protein quality control in cells. It is poorly understood what natural substrate proteins, with respect to structural characteristics, are preferentially bound by sHSPs in cells. Here we compared the structural characteristics for the natural substrate proteins of Escherichia coli IbpB and Deinococcus radiodurans Hsp20.2 with the respective bacterial proteome at multiple levels, mainly by using bioinformatics analysis. Data indicate that both IbpB and Hsp20.2 preferentially bind to substrates of high molecular weight or moderate acidity. Surprisingly, their substrates contain abundant charged residues but not abundant hydrophobic residues, thus strongly indicating that ionic interactions other than hydrophobic interactions also play crucial roles for the substrate recognition and binding of sHSPs. Further, secondary structure prediction analysis indicates that the substrates of low percentage of β‐sheets or coils but high percentage of α‐helices are un‐favored by both IbpB and Hsp20.2. In addition, IbpB preferentially interacts with multi‐domain proteins but unfavorably with α + β proteins as revealed by SCOP analysis. Together, our data suggest that bacterial sHSPs, though having broad substrate spectrums, selectively bind to substrates of certain structural features. These structural characteristic elements may substantially participate in the sHSP–substrate interaction and/or increase the aggregation tendency of the substrates, thus making the substrates more preferentially bound by sHSPs.
The critical role of the loops of triosephosphate isomerase for its oligomerization, dynamics, and functionality
Authors: Katebi Ataur R. , Jernigan Robert L.
Published: December 2013

Triosephosphate isomerase (TIM) catalyzes the reaction to convert dihydroxyacetone phosphate into glyceraldehyde 3‐phosphate, and vice versa. In most organisms, its functional oligomeric state is a homodimer; however, tetramer formation in hyperthermophiles is required for functional activity. The tetrameric TIM structure also provides added stability to the structure, enabling it to function at more extreme temperatures. We apply Principal Component Analysis to find that the TIM structure space is clearly divided into two groups—the open and the closed TIM structures. The distribution of the structures in the open set is much sparser than that in the closed set, showing a greater conformational diversity of the open structures. We also apply the Elastic Network Model to four different TIM structures—an engineered monomeric structure, a dimeric structure from a mesophile—Trypanosoma brucei, and two tetrameric structures from hyperthermophiles Thermotoga maritima and Pyrococcus woesei. We find that dimerization not only stabilizes the structures, it also enhances their functional dynamics. Moreover, tetramerization of the hyperthermophilic structures increases their functional loop dynamics, enabling them to function in the destabilizing environment of extreme temperatures. Computations also show that the functional loop motions, especially loops 6 and 7, are highly coordinated. In summary, our computations reveal the underlying mechanism of the allosteric regulation of the functional loops of the TIM structures, and show that tetramerization of the structure as found in the hyperthermophilic organisms is required to maintain the coordination of the functional loops at a level similar to that in the dimeric mesophilic structure.
Analytical expressions for the drain current of a nanotransistor in the off‐state regime
Authors: Krahlisch M. , Wulf U. , Kučera J. , Richter H. , Höntschel J.
Published: December 2013

Recently, we have suggested a scale‐invariant numerical model for a planar nanotransistor based on a Fowler‐Nordheim‐type of formula. In this this model we introduce a set of approximations to obtain simple analytical expressions for the drain current in the off‐state regime. For this purpose the saddle point approximation is applied to the Fowler‐Nordheim integral. Furthermore, we are using the WKB‐expression for transmission coefficient and a series approximation for Fermi‐Dirac integrals by Mc Dougal and Stoner to evaluate the supply function. The resulting analytical formula is in qualitative agreement with the traces of an experimental transistor. It becomes quite simple for small gate voltages, i.e. in the deep off‐state regime. Systematic steps to improve our approximations towards a quantitative agreement are discussed. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Observation of point defect injection from electrical deactivation of arsenic ultra‐shallow distributions formed by ultra‐low energy ion implantation and laser sub‐melt annealing
Authors: Demenev Evgeny , Meirer Florian , Essa Zahi , Giubertoni Damiano , Cristiano Fuccio , Pepponi Giancarlo , Gennaro Salvatore , Bersani Massimo , Foad Majeed A.
Published: December 2013

The stability and the evolution of electrical properties of high concentration arsenic ultra‐shallow junctions in silicon have been studied with regard to their effect on the evolution of point defects. The activation of 2 keV 1 × 1015 cm‐2 As implants was performed using millisecond sub‐melt laser annealing at two different temperatures, 1100 and 1300 °C. The electrical deactivation upon subsequent thermal treatment at 700 °C was indirectly monitored through the diffusion of five 10 nm‐wide boron layers aimed to detect the injection of self‐interstitials coming from dopant clustering. Thermal treatments were repeated on samples implanted with Ge at condition similar to the As ones. The comparison helped to discriminate between interstitials coming from lattice damage evolution and dopant clustering. The results show the relevance of the laser annealing temperature in order to ensure junction stability in terms of active carrier concentration and junction depth. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Laser thermal anneal formation of atomically‐flat low‐resistive germanide contacts
Authors: Huet K. , Shayesteh M. , Toqué‐Tresonne I. , Negru R. , Daunt C. L. M. , Kelly N. , O'Connell D. , Yu R. , Djara V. , Carolan P. , Petkov N. , Duffy R.
Published: December 2013

In this work, state‐of‐the‐art laser thermal annealing (LTA) is used to form germanide contacts on n‐doped Ge, and is compared to results generated by rapid thermal annealing (RTA). Surface topography, interface quality, crystal structure, and material stoichiometry are explored for both techniques. For electrical characterization, specific contact resistivities ϱc are extracted. It is shown that LTA can produce a uniform contact with a remarkably smooth substrate interface, with ϱc 2‐3 orders of magnitude lower than the equivalent RTA case. A ϱc of 2.84×10‐7 Ω.cm2 is achieved for optimized LTA parameters. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Evaluation of the coupled COSMO‐CLM/DCEP model with observations from BUBBLE
Authors: Schubert S. , Grossman‐Clarke S.
Published: December 2013

The urban canopy scheme DCEP coupled with the mesoscale climate model COSMO‐CLM is evaluated extensively against data from the Basel Urban Boundary Layer Experiment (BUBBLE) for the period 20 June 2002 to 10 July 2002. The urban canopy parameters required for this purpose are based on a 3D building dataset of the canton of Basel‐Stadt (Switzerland) and land‐use data for Basel and its surroundings. The simulated radiative and energy fluxes as well as near‐surface air temperatures and wind velocities are compared with the measurements. The results indicate a good online performance of the model system which is comparable with the oﬄine performance of other urban canopy schemes in terms of the fluxes. DCEP is able to simulate typical characteristics of the urban boundary layer, in contrast to the default bulk‐transfer scheme of COSMO‐CLM.
Synthesis and Characterization of the Silylated Hexaphenyl Carbodiphosphorane [Me3SiC(PPh3)2][CF3SO3]
Authors: Kuzu Istemi , Kneusels Nis‐Julian H. , Bauer Mona , Neumüller Bernhard , Tonner Ralf
Published: December 2013

The addition of trimethylsilyl trifluoromethanesulfonate TMS‐OTf (CF3SO3 = OTf, triflate) to hexaphenyl carbodiphosphorane PPh3=C=PPh3 (1) in toluene yields the silylated carbodiphosphorane [Me3SiC(PPh3)2][OTf] (2). Compound 2 represents the first silylated carbodiphosphorane characterized in solution and in the solid state. 2 is an air‐sensitive compound but stable in solution and in the solid state in an inert atmosphere as shown by heteronuclear NMR experiments and also by X‐ray diffraction analysis. Compound 2 crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21/n with the cell dimensions a = 1161.7(1), b = 1714.4(1), c = 1903.3(1) pm; β = 102.74(1)° and Z = 4. Structure, frontier orbitals, and dissociation energies for 2 were determined by density functional theory‐based computations highlighting the character of 2 as a Lewis acid adduct of a carbon(0) compound.
Surface Adsorption and Aggregation Properties of Novel l‐Lysine‐Based Gemini Surfactants
Authors: Liang Yaqin , Hu Zhiyong , Cao Duanlin
Published: December 2013

Four chiral l‐lysine‐based gemini surfactants with different spacers were synthesized, namely, disodium (18R,23R)‐12,20,21,29‐tetraoxo‐13,19,22,28‐tetraazatetracontane‐18,23‐dicarboxylate([C12‐2‐C12]Na2), disodium (18R,25R)‐12,20,23,31‐tetraoxo‐13,19,24,30‐tetraazadotetracontane‐18,25‐dicarboxylate([C12‐4‐C12]Na2), disodium(18R,27R)‐12,20,25,33‐tetraoxo‐13,19,26,32‐tetraazatetratetracontane‐18,27‐dicarboxylate([C12‐6‐C12]Na2), disodium(2R,2′R)‐ 2,2′‐(6‐chloro‐1,3,5‐triazine‐2,4‐diyl)bis(azanediyl)bis(6‐dodecanamidohexanoate) ([C12‐T‐C12]Na2). The chemical structures of the prepared compounds were confirmed by 1H‐NMR, ESI–MS and IR spectra. Further, the critical micelle concentration (CMC) of these surfactants in aqueous solutions was determined by surface tension and conductometry methods at 25 °C. Moreover, the adsorption and micellization behaviors of these surfactants were estimated by pC20, the minimum average area per surfactant molecule (Amin), and standard free energy for micellization and adsorption ( and ). The results show that the four gemini surfactants have low CMC values and significantly low surface tension. Furthermore, the surfactants show strong adsorption at the air–water interface. The CMC and Amin values of the surfactants were found to be in the order of [C12‐2‐C12]Na2 < [C12‐4‐C12]Na2 < [C12‐6‐C12]Na2 < [C12‐T‐C12]Na2, which were in agreement with the sequence of and . The circular dichroism of the surfactants indicated the formation of chiral aggregates above the CMC values.
Hydrogen activation with perfluorinated organoboranes: 1,2,3-tris(pentafluorophenyl)-4,5,6,7-tetrafluoro-1-boraindene
Authors: Houghton Adrian Y. , Karttunen Virve A. , Piers Warren E. , Tuononen Heikki M.
Published: December 2013

Experimental and computational data shows that a new perfluorinated boraindene reacts reversibly with H2 to form a reactive hydroborane that can be trapped with an olefin.
A new arene–Ru based supramolecular coordination complex for efficient binding and selective sensing of green fluorescent protein
Authors: Mishra Anurag , Ravikumar Sambandam , Song Young Ho , Prabhu Nadarajan Saravanan , Kim Hyunuk , Hong Soon Ho , Cheon Seyeon , Noh Jaegeun , Chi Ki-Whan
Published: December 2013

A new synthesized arene di-ruthenium based metallacycle binds to the enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) variant of GFP with high binding affinity and selectivity.
One-step replication and enhanced catalytic activity for cathodic oxygen reduction of the mesostructured Co3O4/carbon composites
Authors: Wang Yongxia , Cui Xiangzhi , Chen Lisong , Wei Chenyang , Cui Fangming , Yao Heliang , Shi Jianlin , Li Yongsheng
Published: December 2013

Mesoporous carbon provides channel for the diffusion of O2 molecules to the surface of Co3O4. O2 decompose into O2−/O2− species by means of the Co3+/Co2+ redox couple.
Real-time monitoring of the deactivation of HZSM-5 during upgrading of pine pyrolysis vapors
Authors: Mukarakate Calvin , Zhang Xiaodong , Stanton Alexander R. , Robichaud David J. , Ciesielski Peter N. , Malhotra Kara , Donohoe Bryon S. , Gjersing Erica , Evans Robert J. , Heroux David S. , Richards Ryan , Iisa Kristiina , Nimlos Mark R.
Published: December 2013

The conversion of pine pyrolysis vapors over fixed beds of HZSM-5 catalyst was studied as a function of deactivation of the catalyst, presumably by coking.
Dynamics of mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake in MICU1-knockdown cells
Authors: de la Fuente Sergio , Matesanz-Isabel Jessica , Fonteriz Rosalba I. , Montero Mayte , Alvarez Javier
Published: December 2013

MICU1 (Ca2+ uptake protein 1, mitochondrial) is an important regulator of the MCU (Ca2+ uniporter protein, mitochondrial) that has been shown recently to act as a gatekeeper of the MCU at low [Ca2+]c (cytosolic [Ca2+]). In the present study we have investigated in detail the dynamics of MCU activity after shRNA-knockdown of MICU1 and we have found several new interesting properties. In MICU1-knockdown cells, the rate of mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake was largely increased at a low [Ca2+]c (<2 μM), but it was decreased at a high [Ca2+]c (>4 μM). In the 2–4 μM range a mixed behaviour was observed, where mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake started earlier in the MICU1-silenced cells, but at a lower rate than in the controls. The sensitivity of Ca2+ uptake to Ruthenium Red and Ru360 was similar at both high and low [Ca2+]c, indicating that the same Ca2+ pathway was operating in both cases. The increased Ca2+-uptake rate observed at a [Ca2+]c below 2 μM was transient and became inhibited during Ca2+ entry. Development of this inhibition was slow, requiring 5 min for completion, and was hardly reversible. Therefore MICU1 acts both as a MCU gatekeeper at low [Ca2+]c and as a cofactor necessary to reach the maximum Ca2+-uptake rate at high [Ca2+]c. Moreover, in the absence of MICU1, the MCU becomes sensitive to a slow-developing inhibition that requires prolonged increases in [Ca2+]c in the low micromolar range.
Fuzzy logic‐based thermal generation scheduling strategy with solar‐battery system using advanced quantum evolutionary method
Authors: Chakraborty Shantanu , Ito Takayuki , Senjyu Tomonobu
Published: December 2013

This study presents a fuzzy logic‐based strategy to solve thermal generation scheduling [namely unit commitment (UC)] problem integrated with an equivalent solar‐battery system using quantum inspired evolutionary algorithm. Solar‐battery system is included with this model as a measure of green‐house effect. The crisp formulations of UC are modified utilising fuzzy logics, because of the inherent intermittency involved in solar energy integration and other uncertain variables. An evolutionary algorithm based on the concept and principle of quantum computation is applied to solve the resultant fuzzy logic‐based UC problem. Conventional quantum evolutionary algorithm (QEA) is modified by incorporating a hierarchy‐group oriented scheme to deal with the non‐linear and multi‐peak nature of the problem. QEA is further advanced facilitating some genetic algorithm operators and a new binary differential operator along with rotation operator with a redefined rotational angle look‐up table. The probabilities of using such operators on individual solution(s) are fuzzified by defining membership function based on associated fitness of that individual. The fitness function is then determined by combining the objective function, penalty function and the aggregated fuzzy membership function. The proposed fuzzy logic‐based QEA (FLQEA) is applied to UC problem in two different scaled power systems. Provided simulation results will show the effectiveness of FLQEA.
Improved first zone reach setting of artificial neural network‐based directional relay for protection of double circuit transmission lines
Authors: Yadav Anamika , Swetapadma Aleena
Published: December 2013

This study proposes an artificial neural network‐based protection scheme for double circuit transmission line with improved first zone reach setting up to 99% of line length. The proposed scheme involves three stages. The first stage makes the discrimination among normal condition and faults. The second stage identifies the zone/section of the fault from the relay location. If a forward fault is detected in its first zone then the third stage is activated, which classifies the fault type and identifies the faulty phase. The three‐phase currents and voltages measured at only one end of the double circuit line are used to calculate discreet Fourier coefficients. Thus, this technique does not require any communication link. The algorithm is presented in detail and extensively tested using the simulink model of a 400 kV, 300 km distributed parameter line simulated in MATLAB® 2009a in the time domain. The simulation results show that all types of shunt faults (forward as well as reverse), its zone/section and faulty phase can be correctly identified within a half cycle time. This method is adaptive to the variation of fault type, fault inception angle, fault location, fault resistance, single circuit operation and CT saturation. The main advantage of the proposed scheme is that it offers primary protection to total line length using single end data only and back up protection for the adjacent forward and reverse line section also.