bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mathematical model for optimising the sequence for clearing snow from the manoeuvring area during winter operations
Authors: Fernández César Marín , Gómez V. F. , Arnaldo R. M.
Published: August 2016

This article considers the optimisation of the sequence for clearing snow from stretches of the manoeuvring area of an airport. This issue involves the optimisation of limited resources to remove snow from taxiways and runways thereby leaving them in an acceptable condition for operating aircraft. The airfield is divided into subsets of significant stretches for the purpose of operations and target times are established during which these are open to aircraft traffic. The document contains several mathematical models each with different functions, such as the end time of the process, the sum of the end times of each stretch and gap between the estimated and the real end times. During this process, we introduce different operating restrictions on partial fulfilment of the operational targets as applied to zones of special interest, or relating to the operation of the snow‐clearing machines. The problem is solved by optimisation based on linear programming. The article gives the results of the computational tests carried out on five distinct models of the manoeuvring area, which cover increasingly complex situations and larger areas. The mathematical model is particularised for the case of the manoeuvring area of Adolfo Suarez Madrid—Barajas Airport. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Highlights

Optimal sequence for clearing snow from the manoeuvring area of an airport.

Contains optimising algorithms solved using CPLEX LP‐based tree search.

Restrictions on partial fulfilment of operational targets applied to subsets of significant stretches, used for planning the operation of snow‐clearing machines.

Model applied to the case of the manoeuvring area of Adolfo Suárez Madrid Barajas Airport.

Conclusions are given on the results of the computational tests carried out. There are five models of the manoeuvring area which cover increasingly complex situations and larger areas.
Are there specific readers of oxidized 5‐methylcytosine bases?
Authors: Song Jikui , Pfeifer Gerd P.
Published: August 2016

5‐methylcytosine (5mC) was long thought to be the only enzymatically created modified DNA base in mammalian cells. The discovery of 5‐hydroxymethylcytosine, 5‐formylcytosine, and 5‐carboxylcytosine as reaction products of the TET family 5mC oxidases has prompted extensive searches for proteins that specifically bind to these oxidized bases. However, only a few of such “reader” proteins have been identified and verified so far. In this review, we discuss potential biological functions of oxidized 5mC as well as the role the presumed reader proteins may play in interpreting the genomic signals of 5mC oxidation products.
Graphene Oxide‐mediated Fluorescence Quenching of Green Fluorescent Protein for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Tran Lan‐Huong , Lee ChangWoo , Kang Tai Jong , Jang Sei‐Heon
Published: August 2016

We investigated the fluorescence property of green fluorescent protein (GFP) with graphene oxide (GO) for both non‐covalent and covalent interactions. The mechanism of GO‐mediated quenching of GFP fluorescence is the combination of both static and dynamic quenching. Although GFP exhibits two absorption bands with similar fluorescence emission spectra, the quenching efficiency of the two absorption bands from non‐covalent immobilization were different—one with absorption at 460 nm, showing a higher fluorescence resonance transfer efficiency than the other absorption at 395 nm. We determined the apparent Stern–Volmer quenching constant (K
app) of GFP for GO to be 2.6 × 10−7 mL/g. However, GFP fluorescence disappeared upon covalent immobilization on GO.
Noninvasive early detection of anthracycline‐induced cardiotoxicity in patients with hematologic malignancies using the phased tracking method
Authors: Saito Yoshiko , Susukida Ikuko , Uzuka Yoshiro , Kanai Hiroshi
Published: August 2016

Anthracyclines are among the most effective and widely used anticancer drugs; however, their use is limited by serious cardiotoxicity. Early detection is necessary to prevent the high mortality rate associated with heart failure (HF). We evaluated cardiac function in 142 patients using conventional echocardiography and the phased tracking method (PTM), which was measured using the minute vibration and the rapid motion components, neither of which is recognized in standard M‐mode nor in tissue Doppler imaging. For systolic function comparison, we compared left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in conventional echocardiography with the average velocity of ventricular septum myocytes (Vave) in the PTM. The Vave of 12 healthy volunteers was 1.5 (m/s)/m or more. At baseline of 99 patients, there was a positive correlation between LVEF and Vave in all patients. There were no significant differences in baseline cardiac function between patients with and without HF. There was a negative correlation between the cumulative anthracycline dose and LVEF or Vave among all patients. We determined that Vave 1.5 (m/s)/m was equivalent to LVEF 60%, 1.25 (m/s)/m to 55%, and 1.0 (m/s)/m to 50%. During the follow‐up period, there was a pathological decrease in LVEF (<55%) and Vave (<1.25 m/s/m) in patients with HF; decreases in Vave were detected significantly earlier than those in LVEF (P < 0.001). When Vave declined to 1.5 (m/s)/m or less, careful continuous observation and cardiac examination was required. When Vave further declined to 1.0 (m/s)/m or lower, chemotherapy was postponed or discontinued; thus, serious drug‐induced cardiomyopathy was avoided in patients who did not relapse. The PTM was superior to echocardiography for early, noninvasive detection and intermediate‐term monitoring of left ventricle systolic function associated with anthracycline chemotherapy, among patients with hematologic malignancies. The PTM was an effective laboratory procedure to avoid the progression to serious cardiomyopathy.
PRDM5 promotes the proliferation and invasion of murine melanoma cells through up‐regulating JNK expression
Authors: Wang Lei , Ding Qiong‐Qiong , Gao Shan‐Shan , Yang Hai‐Jie , Wang Mian , Shi Yu , Cheng Bin‐Feng , Bi Jia‐Jia , Feng Zhi‐Wei
Published: August 2016

PRDM (PRDI‐BF1 and RIZ domain‐containing) proteins constitute a family of zinc finger proteins and play important roles in multiple cellular processes by acting as epigenetic modifiers. PRDM5 is a recently identified member of the PRDM family and may function as a tumor suppressor in several types of cancer. However, the role of PRDM5 in murine melanoma remains largely unknown. In our study, effect of PRDM5 on murine melanoma cells was determined and results showed that PRDM5 overexpression significantly promoted proliferation, migration, and invasion of murine melanoma B16F10 cells. Consistently, silencing of PRDM5 expression significantly inhibited proliferation, invasion, and migration of B16F10 cells. In vivo study also showed that PRDM5 silencing significantly inhibited the growth and metastasis of melanoma in mice. PRDM5 was then found to increase the expression and activation of JNK in B16F10 cells. JNK silencing significantly reduced PRDM5‐mediated up‐regulation of JNK expression and blocked the PRDM5‐induced proliferation and invasion of B16F10 cells. To further verify the involvement of JNK signaling in PRDM5‐induced progression of B16F10 cells, a specific JNK inhibitor was employed to inhibit the JNK signaling pathway, and results showed that PRDM5‐induced proliferation and invasion of B16F10 cells were abolished. We conclude that PRDM5 promotes the proliferation and invasion of murine melanoma cells through up‐regulating JNK expression and strategies targeting PRDM5 may be promising for the therapy of melanoma.
Chemical Constituents and Insecticidal Activities ofAjania fruticulosaEssential Oil
Authors: Liang Jun‐Yu , Guo Shan‐Shan , You Chun‐Xue , Zhang Wen‐Juan , Wang Cheng‐Fang , Geng Zhu‐Feng , Deng Zhi‐Wei , Du Shu‐Shan , Zhang Ji
Published: August 2016

The insecticidal activity and chemical constituents of the essential oil fromAjania fruticulosawere investigated. Twelve constituents representing 91.0% of the essential oil were identified, and the main constituents were 1,8‐cineole (41.40%), (+)‐camphor (32.10%), and myrtenol (8.15%). The essential oil exhibited contact toxicity againstTribolium castaneumandLiposcelis bostrychophilaadults withLD50values of 105.67 μg/adult and 89.85 μg/cm2, respectively. The essential oil also showed fumigant toxicity against two species of insect withLC50values of 11.52 and 0.65 mg/l, respectively. 1,8‐Cineole exhibited excellent fumigant toxicity (LC50 = 5.47 mg/l) againstT. castaneum. (+)‐Camphor showed obvious fumigant toxicity (LC50 = 0.43 mg/l) againstL. bostrychophila. Myrtenol showed contact toxicity (LD50 = 29.40 μg/cm2) and fumigant toxicity (LC50 = 0.50 mg/l) againstL. bostrychophila. 1,8‐Cineole and (+)‐camphor showed strong insecticidal activity to some important insects, and they are main constituents ofA. fruticulosaessential oil. The two compounds may be related to insecticidal activity ofA. fruticulosaessential oil againstT. castaneumandL. bostrychophila.
A case of Klumpke's obstetric brachial plexus palsy following a Cesarean section
Authors: Al‐Qattan Mohammad M. , El‐Sayed Amel A. F.
Published: August 2016

Key Clinical Message

It is generally thought that Klumpke's palsy is not seen as obstetric injury. The authors present a case of Klumpke's palsy with Horner syndrome following delivery by emergency Cesarean section. Neurolysis and nerve grafting partially corrected the paralysis.
Facile Synthesis of Yolk–Shell Nanostructured Photocatalyst with Improved Adsorption Properties and Molecular‐Sieving Properties
Authors: Kuwahara Yasutaka , Sumida Yuki , Fujiwara Kensei , Yamashita Hiromi
Published: August 2016

A novel and facile method to fabricate yolk–shell nanostructured photocatalysts consisting of TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) as the core and spherical hollow silica as the shell was developed. In the fabrication, commercial TiO2 NPs were directly incorporated into hollow silica spheres by utilizing oil‐in‐water (O/W) microemulsions as a template, followed by heat treatment to create a void space between the TiO2 core and the silica shell region. The synthesized yolk–shell nanostructured TiO2@SiO2 acts as an efficient photocatalyst with both improved adsorption properties and photocatalytic efficiency, which far outperformed those of naked TiO2 owing to the ability of the porous silica shell to adsorb/enrich small organic reactants (acetaldehyde and 2‐propanol) inside the void space and efficient transportation to the adjacent active TiO2 core. Comparative photocatalytic tests using a large organic molecule (conalbumin) revealed that the porous silica shell with an average pore diameter of 2.0 nm endowed this material with a molecular‐sieving property, demonstrating its potential application in combination with organic support materials.
Circularly Polarized Luminescence of Chiral Perylene Diimide Based Enantiomers Triggered by Supramolecular Self‐Assembly
Authors: Li Fei , Li Yunzhi , Wei Guo , Wang Yuxiang , Li Shuhua , Cheng Yixiang
Published: August 2016

Two perylene diimide (PDI) enantiomers (d/l‐PDI) incorporating the d/l‐alanine moiety have been designed and synthesized. d/l‐PDI in chloroform displays bright‐yellow fluorescence that is redshifted to orange‐red when the solvent contains a methanol fraction of 99 vol %. No circular dichroism (CD) or circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) signals were observed for d/l‐PDI enantiomers in CHCl3. Interestingly, the d/l‐PDI enantiomers exhibit clear mirror‐image Cotton effects and CPL emission in the aggregate state. The optical anisotropy factor (glum) is as high as 0.02 at fm=99 %, which can be attributed to self‐assembly through intermolecular π–π interactions in the aggregate state.
Red–Green–Blue Trichromophoric Nanoparticles with Dual Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer: Highly Sensitive Fluorogenic Response Toward Polyanions
Authors: Xu Jinjia , Takai Atsuro , Takeuchi Masayuki
Published: August 2016

A red–green–blue (RGB) trichromophoric fluorescent organic nanoparticle exhibiting multi‐colour emission was constructed; the blue‐emitting cationic oligofluorene nanoparticle acted as an energy‐donor scaffold to undergo fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) to a red‐emitting dye embedded in the nanoparticle (interior FRET) and to a green‐emitting dye adsorbed on the surface through electrostatic interactions (exterior FRET). Each FRET event occurs independently and is free from sequential FRET, thus the resultant dual‐FRET system exhibits multi‐colour emission, including white, in aqueous solution and film state. A characteristic white‐emissive nanoparticle showed visible responses upon perturbation of the exterior FRET efficiency by acceptor displacement, leading to highly sensitive responses toward polyanions in a ratiometric manner. Specifically, our system exhibits high sensitivity toward heparin with an extremely low detection limit.
Calcium rundum vernetzt
Authors: Groß Michael
Published: August 2016

Calciumionen spielen in unserem Stoffwechsel mehrere wichtige Rollen – als Baumaterial in Knochen sowie als “second messenger” bei den Signalwegen innerhalb der Zelle. Weniger bekannt und erforscht ist, dass es auch außerhalb der Zelle Signale geben kann – die Kristallstruktur des dafür zuständigen Rezeptors wurde erst vor kurzem aufgeklärt. Somit umfasst das Kommunikationsnetz des Calciums unseren ganzen Körper.
Characterization and Purification of Membrane‐Bound Azoreductase From Azo Dye Degrading Shewanella sp. Strain IFN4
Authors: Imran Muhammad , Negm Fayek , Hussain Sabir , Ashraf Muhammad , Ashraf Muhammad , Ahmad Zulfiqar , Arshad Muhammad , Crowley David E.
Published: August 2016

Azo dyes can be degraded by azoreductases that achieve initial decolorization of the dye molecule through cleavage of the azo bond. Here we characterized membrane‐bound azoreductase enzyme expressed by Shewanella sp. strain IFN4, which is a particularly efficient azo dye degrading bacterium. Initial studies showed that this bacterium was capable of decolorizing a wide variety of azo dyes including Reactive Black 5, Acid Red 88, Direct Red 81, Acid Yellow 19, and Disperse Orange 3. These structurally different azo dyes were also found to be reduced by the membrane‐bound azoreductase showing the wider substrate specificity of the enzyme. Maximum enzyme activity was observed at pH 8 and 45°C with Reactive Black 5 as a substrate, and was stimulated on the addition of flavin or quinone compounds. The azoreductase was partially purified using a combination of ammonium sulfate precipitation followed by anion exchange chromatography. The cell membrane azoreductase was identified by non‐denaturing gel electrophoresis and was shown to have a molar mass of 33 ± 0.5 kDa. Analysis of protein fragments by mass spectrometry showed high similarity with a Na(+)‐translocating NADH‐quinone reductase, previously identified in different species of the genus Shewanella. This enzyme is the first to be identified as a primary functional membrane‐bound azoreductase used by members of the genus Shewanella to degrade azo dyes.
Targeting an Aromatic Hotspot in Plasmodium falciparum 1‐Deoxy‐d‐xylulose‐5‐phosphate Reductoisomerase with β‐Arylpropyl Analogues of Fosmidomycin
Authors: Sooriyaarachchi Sanjeewani , Chofor René , Risseeuw Martijn D. P. , Bergfors Terese , Pouyez Jenny , Dowd Cynthia S. , Maes Louis , Wouters Johan , Jones T. Alwyn , Van Calenbergh Serge , Mowbray Sherry L.
Published: August 2016

Blocking the 2‐C‐methyl‐d‐erythrithol‐4‐phosphate pathway for isoprenoid biosynthesis offers new ways to inhibit the growth of Plasmodium spp. Fosmidomycin [(3‐(N‐hydroxyformamido)propyl)phosphonic acid, 1] and its acetyl homologue FR‐900098 [(3‐(N‐hydroxyacetamido)propyl)phosphonic acid, 2] potently inhibit 1‐deoxy‐d‐xylulose‐5‐phosphate reductoisomerase (Dxr), a key enzyme in this biosynthetic pathway. Arylpropyl substituents were introduced at the β‐position of the hydroxamate analogue of 2 to study changes in lipophilicity, as well as electronic and steric properties. The potency of several new compounds on the P. falciparum enzyme approaches that of 1 and 2. Activities against the enzyme and parasite correlate well, supporting the mode of action. Seven X‐ray structures show that all of the new arylpropyl substituents displace a key tryptophan residue of the active‐site flap, which had made favorable interactions with 1 and 2. Plasticity of the flap allows substituents to be accommodated in many ways; in most cases, the flap is largely disordered. Compounds can be separated into two classes based on whether the substituent on the aromatic ring is at the meta or para position. Generally, meta‐substituted compounds are better inhibitors, and in both classes, smaller size is linked to better potency.
The Ethylhexanoate Route to Metal Oxide Nanocrystals: Synthesis of CoO Nanooctahedra from CoII 2‐Ethylhexanoate
Authors: Epifani Mauro , Tang Peng‐Yi , Genç Aziz , Morante Joan R. , Arbiol Jordi , Díaz Raül , Wicker Susanne
Published: August 2016

CoO nanocrystals were prepared by solvothermal processing of Co 2‐ethylhexanoate in oleylamine at 250 °C. The obtained products, identified as CoO by X‐ray diffraction, had an octahedral shape, as seen by transmission electron microscopy, reflecting the cubic symmetry of the CoO crystallographic phase. The materials were converted into the Co3O4 phase after heat treatment at 400 °C. The nanocrystal evolution was investigated by FTIR spectroscopy. It was concluded that weak oleylamine bonding to the nanocrystal surface during the synthesis step favored the exchange with 2‐ethylhexanoato ligands, and that the interplay between the two ligands favored the kinetic control of the growth, resulting in the finally observed octahedral morphology. The Co3O4 phase obtained from the heat treatment at 400 °C was used to process chemoresistive sensors, which were able to detect ethanol under dry and humid conditions (0 and 50 % r.h. H2O at 25 °C) at low temperatures (100 °C).
A Perspective on Catalytic Strategies for Deoxygenation in Biomass Pyrolysis
Authors: Nolte Michael W. , Shanks Brent H.
Published: August 2016

Biomass fast pyrolysis is a technology that is able to convert biomass, a low‐density solid, into primarily a liquid bio‐oil product that is denser and more easily storable and transportable. However, utilizing raw bio‐oil is difficult, mainly due to its high oxygen content. Bio‐oil must be upgraded and deoxygenated first before it can be co‐fed into a petroleum refinery. One method of upgrading involves condensing the pyrolysis vapors into bio‐oil and then hydrotreating the bio‐oil. Significant deoxygenation can be achieved; however, the hydrotreatment is typically performed under high pressure (>6900 kPa) and with multiple temperature stages. Also, lignin‐derived phenolic compounds can be prone to polymerize and plug reactors. Generally, the catalysts that have been tested are expensive noble metals or transition metal sulfides. Another upgrading approach is to react the pyrolysis vapors over a catalyst to produce a deoxygenated liquid product upon condensation. Common petroleum refining catalysts, such as zeolites, have been found to produce hydrocarbons although their yields are generally low to moderate whereas the yields of solids (char/coke) and gases (CO and CO2) can be high. In addition, zeolites can suffer rapid deactivation through coking and loss of acidity. Other, new catalysts that have been tested for vapor‐phase deoxygenation include noble‐metal and transition‐metal catalysts. Noble metals are active but are also prone to saturating aromatic rings. More cost‐effective catalysts, that is, transition metal‐based catalysts, have also been tested for hydrodeoxygenation efficacy. Particularly, two molybdenum‐based catalysts, MoO3 and Mo2C, were found to deoxygenate biomass model compounds under low pressure and moderate temperatures. In addition, MoO3 has been shown to deoxygenate pyrolysis vapors obtained from complete biomass. From our perspective, the most feasible upgrading strategy would likely involve catalytically upgrading pyrolysis vapors under low pressure, moderate temperature, and with minimal hydrogen consumption to produce unsaturated alkenes and aromatics, which can then be further processed and refined in a traditional petroleum refinery.
Shake table investigation on the seismic performance of hospital equipment supported on wheels/casters
Authors: Nikfar Farzad , Konstantinidis Dimitrios
Published: August 2016

This paper presents an experimental investigation on the seismic response of medical equipment supported on wheels and/or casters. Two pieces of equipment were tested: a large ultrasound machine and a cart carrying smaller medical equipment. In the first phase, the resistance of the wheels and casters of the equipment was characterized through a controlled‐displacement procedure on the shake table. In the second phase, an extensive shake table test program was carried out to investigate the seismic response of the equipment. The input signals for the shake table tests included floor motions of a four‐story steel braced‐frame hospital designed to satisfy seismic requirements of a site in the Los Angeles area. The results of 96 shake table tests reported in this study include the seismic performance of the equipment under both unlocked and locked conditions, located on various floor levels of the building. It was observed that engaging the casters' locking mechanism does not necessarily decrease the relative displacement. The displacement response was sensitive to the excitation intensity and the orientation of the equipment with respect to the input excitation. Based on the experimental observations, appropriate structural engineering demand parameters associated with the relative displacement and relative velocity demands of the equipment are proposed and used to develop conditional probability curves. Finally, in an effort to extend the results of this experimental study to similar equipment on wheels/casters, the performance of a simple numerical model in predicting the peak seismic demands is evaluated. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the secrecy of the cognitive interference channel with partial channel states
Authors: Bafghi Hamid G. , Seyfe Babak , Mirmohseni Mahtab , Aref Mohammad Reza
Published: August 2016

The secrecy problem in the state‐dependent cognitive interference channel is considered in this paper. In our model, there are a primary and a secondary (cognitive) transmitter–receiver pairs, in which the cognitive transmitter has the message of the primary one as side information. In addition, the channel is affected by two channel state sequences, which are known at the cognitive transmitter and the corresponding receiver, separately. The cognitive transmitter should cooperate with the primary one, and it wishes to keep its message secure at the primary receiver. The achievable equivocation‐rate regions for this channel are derived using two approaches: the binning scheme coding and superposition coding. Then, comparisons between the results using two coding approaches, in Gaussian case, shows that there is a trade‐off between the achievable rate of the primary transmitter and the equivocation rate of the cognitive one. Moreover, the outer bounds on the capacity of the channel are derived. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Artificial Maturation of the Highly Active Heterodimeric [FeFe] Hydrogenase from Desulfovibrio desulfuricans ATCC 7757
Authors: Birrell James A. , Wrede Kathrin , Pawlak Krzysztof , Rodriguez‐Maciá Patricia , Rüdiger Olaf , Reijerse Edward J. , Lubitz Wolfgang
Published: August 2016

Hydrogenases catalyze the reduction of protons and oxidation of molecular hydrogen with high turnover frequencies and low overpotentials under ambient conditions. The heterodimeric [FeFe] hydrogenase from Desulfovibrio desulfuricans has an exceptionally high activity, and can be purified aerobically in an oxygen‐stable inactive state. Recently, it was demonstrated that monomeric [FeFe] hydrogenases produced recombinantly in Escherichia coli can be artificially maturated by simply incubating the inactive “apo” enzymes with the synthetic [2Fe] cofactor mimic [Fe2(adt)(CO)4(CN)2]2−. Here, we use the same technique to produce the heterodimeric “apo” hydrogenase from D. desulfuricans in E. coli with a high yield and purity, and maturate the “apo” enzyme with [Fe2(adt)(CO)4(CN)2]2− to generate fully active “holo” enzyme. Interestingly, the rate of the artificial maturation process with D. desulfuricans is significantly slower than that for all other hydrogenases tested so far. The artificially maturated enzyme is spectroscopically and electrochemically identical to the native enzyme and shows high rates of hydrogen production (3700 s−1) and hydrogen oxidation (63,000 s−1). We expect that our highly efficient production method will facilitate future studies of this enzyme and other related [FeFe] hydrogenases from Desulfovibrio species.
Investigation of DNA damage in cells exposed to poly (lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) microspheres
Authors: Zivkovic Lada , Akar Banu , Roux Brianna M. , Spremo Potparevic Biljana , Bajic Vladan , Brey Eric M.
Published: August 2016

Poly (lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA)‐based materials are widely investigated for drug delivery and tissue engineering applications. Despite their popularity the genotoxic potential of PLGA has not been investigated. In this study, the comet assay, a sensitive assay for DNA damage, was used to evaluate potential genotoxicity in model cell types exposed to PLGA microspheres. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) cells were exposed to PLGA microspheres (0.4–6 mg/mL) and DNA damage assessed at 24 h, 4 days, and 7 days. DNA damage was not identified after 24 h. However, after 4 and 7 days of exposure to 2 and 6 mg/mL of PLGA microspheres a significant elevation of DNA damage in both cell types was observed. The PLGA microspheres did not exhibit any cytotoxic effects on the cells under the conditions tested. Our results suggest that PLGA may have a genotoxic effect on cells. A broader investigation of the PLGA genotoxic profile in biological systems is needed. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 284–291, 2017.
Theoretical Studies on the Adsorption of 5‐Aminotetrazole on Single‐walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Chermahini Alireza Najafi , Kermannezhad Kamran , Rezaei Masoume
Published: August 2016

In the present study, the adsorption of different isomers of 5‐aminotetrazole as an important precursor of high energetic materials on single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) with different sizes including (5,5), (6,6) and (7,7) chiralities using density functional theory calculations is investigated. Different adsorption modes including edge, parallel and perpendicular to carbon nanotubes have been investigated. It was found that three different isomers of 5‐aminotetrazole named 1H, 2H and imino forms physically adsorbed on sidewall and end of nanotubes. The adsorption energies for the parallel and perpendicular modes found in the range of −8.25 to −13.16 and −3.74 to −9.42 kcal/mol, respectively. In addition, for the edge mode the adsorption energies are found in the range of −13.01 to −24.5 kcal/mol. On the other hands, from the HOMO/LUMO gap changes, it can be concluded that the SWCNT with (5,5) chirality might sensitively detect the different isomers of 5‐aminotetrazole molecule in comparison with other carbon nanotubes. The global reactivity descriptors, before and after functionalization of 5‐AT tautomers onto the SWCNTs are compared and the results analyzed. Based on calculated results, the SWCNTs are expected to be a potential adsorbent as well as sensors for the adsorption of 5‐AT in environmental and military systems.
The Human Skeletal Muscle Proteome Project: a reappraisal of the current literature
Authors: Gonzalez‐Freire Marta , Semba Richard D. , Ubaida‐Mohien Ceereena , Fabbri Elisa , Scalzo Paul , Højlund Kurt , Dufresne Craig , Lyashkov Alexey , Ferrucci Luigi
Published: August 2016

Skeletal muscle is a large organ that accounts for up to half the total mass of the human body. A progressive decline in muscle mass and strength occurs with ageing and in some individuals configures the syndrome of ‘sarcopenia’, a condition that impairs mobility, challenges autonomy, and is a risk factor for mortality. The mechanisms leading to sarcopenia as well as myopathies are still little understood. The Human Skeletal Muscle Proteome Project was initiated with the aim to characterize muscle proteins and how they change with ageing and disease. We conducted an extensive review of the literature and analysed publically available protein databases. A systematic search of peer‐reviewed studies was performed using PubMed. Search terms included ‘human’, ‘skeletal muscle’, ‘proteome’, ‘proteomic(s)’, and ‘mass spectrometry’, ‘liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS)’. A catalogue of 5431 non‐redundant muscle proteins identified by mass spectrometry‐based proteomics from 38 peer‐reviewed scientific publications from 2002 to November 2015 was created. We also developed a nosology system for the classification of muscle proteins based on localization and function. Such inventory of proteins should serve as a useful background reference for future research on changes in muscle proteome assessed by quantitative mass spectrometry‐based proteomic approaches that occur with ageing and diseases. This classification and compilation of the human skeletal muscle proteome can be used for the identification and quantification of proteins in skeletal muscle to discover new mechanisms for sarcopenia and specific muscle diseases that can be targeted for the prevention and treatment.
Extraction and isolation of lithospermic acid B from Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge using aqueous two‐phase extraction followed by high‐performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Guo Yong Xue , Shi Chang Zhi , Zhang Lei , Lv Lin , Zhang Yue Yong
Published: August 2016

A rapid and effective method integrating separation and purification of lithospermic acid B from Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge was developed by combining an aqueous two‐phase system extraction with preparative chromatography. An aqueous two‐phase system of n‐butyl alcohol/KH2PO4 was chosen from seven systems. The influence of parameters including concentration of KH2PO4, n‐butyl alcohol concentration, pH, and the ratio of an aqueous two‐phase system to crude extract were investigated using a single factor design. Response surface methodology was subsequently used to find the optimal compositions of an aqueous two‐phase system. Keeping a solvent‐to‐solid ratio of 10, the final optimized composition of an aqueous two‐phase system was 39.1% w/w n‐butyl alcohol and 22.6% w/w KH2PO4. Under these conditions a recovery yield of 99.8% and a high partition coefficient of 310.4 were obtained. In a pilot‐scale experiment using optimized conditions, 18.79 g of lithospermic acid B with a purity of 70.5% and in a yield of 99.8% was separated from 0.5 kg of crude extract. Subsequently, 9.94 g lithospermic acid B with a purity of 99.3% and recovery yield of 70.3% was obtained with a preparative chromatographic process, and the two‐step total recovery was 70.1%.
A novel approach to cricoarytenoid joint injections: An anatomic study
Authors: Sivam Sunthosh , Burkett Alison , Simpson C. Blake
Published: August 2016

Objectives

To demonstrate a novel approach to cricoarytenoid joint (CAJ) injections.

Study Design

Anatomic feasibility study.

Methods

Five human cadaveric larynges providing 10 CAJ s were used to obtain trajectory measurements of a 27‐gauge 1½‐inch needle placed between the CAJ capsule and the contralateral cricothyroid membrane. Ten additional larynges providing 20 CAJ s were then used to assess the efficacy of applying the previously obtained measurements to guide 0.2‐cc methylene blue injections of the CAJ using a 27‐gauge 1½‐inch needle. Successful injection was confirmed by direct visualization of methylene blue within the CAJ capsule.

Results

The tip of the needle made a 70 ± 1.87 degree (confidence interval [CI] 95%) angle relative to the plane parallel to the anterior lamella of the cricoid cartilage; the needle was within the cricothyroid membrane 5 ± 0.77 mm (CI 95%) lateral to the midsagittal plane; the needle was 4 ± 0.80 mm (CI 95%) anteroinferior from the vocal process of the arytenoid cartilage as measured within the airway; and the distance from the point of airway entry and the CAJ capsule was 17 ± 2.42 mm (CI 95%). Twenty CAJ injections were attempted using the guidelines established here with an 85% success rate.

Conclusion

The current approach to CAJ injection utilizes microlaryngoscopy in an operative setting. This study is the first to describe the accessibility of the CAJ through percutaneous injection using reliable landmarks, potentially allowing access to the joint in an office‐based setting.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 127:199–203, 2017
Retraction Statement: Stress corrosion cracking of high strength stainless steels for use as strand in prestressed marine environment concrete construction
Authors: Fernandez J.
Published: August 2016

The above article, published online on 10 April 2015 in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com), and in volume 66, pp. 1269–1278, has been retracted by agreement between the authors, the journal Editors in Chief, Jürgen Mietz, and Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA. The retraction has been agreed due to substantial overlap with a previously published paper, and without consultation of the co‐authors of that publication: ‘Investigation of Stress Corrosion Cracking Susceptibility of High Strength Stainless Steels for Use as Strand Material in Prestressed Concrete Construction in a Marine Environment’, J. Fernandez, A. A. Sagüés and G. Mullins, Paper No.2686, 15 pp., Corrosion 2013, NACE International, Houston, 2013.

References

Fernandez, J. (2015), Stress corrosion cracking of high strength stainless steels for use as strand in prestressed marine environment concrete construction. Materials andCorrosion, 66: 1269–1278. doi: 10.1002/maco.201408190
The Symptomatic Treatment of Acquired Dystonia: A Systematic Review
Authors: van den Heuvel Corina N.A.M. , Tijssen Marina A.J. , van de Warrenburg Bart P.C. , Delnooz Cathérine C.S.
Published: August 2016

Background

Acquired dystonia is caused by an acquired or exogenous event. Although the therapeutic armamentarium used in clinical practice is more or less similar to that used for inherited or idiopathic dystonia, formal proof of the efficacy of these interventions in acquired dystonia is lacking.

Methods

The authors attempt to provide a comprehensive and systematic review of the current evidence for medical and allied health care treatment strategies in acquired dystonias. The PubMed, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Web of Science, PiCarta, and PsycINFO databases were searched up to December 2015, including randomized controlled trials, patient‐control studies, and case series or single case reports containing a report on clinical outcome.

Results

There are level 3 practice recommendations for botulinum toxin injections and globus pallidus pars interna deep brain stimulation for tardive dystonia and dystonic cerebral palsy as well as intrathecal baclofen for dystonic cerebral palsy. There are insufficient and conflicting data on the effect (vs. the hazard) of other pharmacological interventions, and limited work has been done on other forms of neurostimulation and allied health care. Because no class A1 or A2 studies were identified, level 1 or 2 practice recommendations could not be deducted for a specific treatment intervention.

Conclusions

To improve the current medical and allied health care treatment options for patients with acquired dystonia, high‐quality trials that examine the efficacy of therapies need to be performed.
Mixed two‐grid finite difference methods for solving one‐dimensional and two‐dimensional Fitzhugh–Nagumo equations
Authors: Moghaderi Hamid , Dehghan Mehdi
Published: August 2016

The aim of this paper is to propose mixed two‐grid finite difference methods to obtain the numerical solution of the one‐dimensional and two‐dimensional Fitzhugh–Nagumo equations. The finite difference equations at all interior grid points form a large‐sparse linear system, which needs to be solved efficiently. The solution cost of this sparse linear system usually dominates the total cost of solving the discretized partial differential equation. The proposed method is based on applying a family of finite difference methods for discretizing the spatial and time derivatives. The obtained system has been solved by two‐grid method, where the two‐grid method is used for solving the large‐sparse linear systems. Also, in the proposed method, the spectral radius with local Fourier analysis is calculated for different values of h and Δt. The numerical examples show the efficiency of this algorithm for solving the one‐dimensional and two‐dimensional Fitzhugh–Nagumo equations. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Existence of solutions for critical fractional Kirchhoff problems
Authors: Zhang Xia , Zhang Chao
Published: August 2016

Consider the following fractional Kirchhoff equations involving critical exponent:

urn:x-wiley:mma:media:mma4085:mma4085-math-0001

where (−Δ)α is the fractional Laplacian operator with α∈(0,1),
,
, λ2>0 and
is the critical Sobolev exponent, V(x) and k(x) are functions satisfying some extra hypotheses. Based on the principle of concentration compactness in the fractional Sobolev space, the minimax arguments, Pohozaev identity, and suitable truncation techniques, we obtain the existence of a nontrivial weak solution for the previously mentioned equations without assuming the Ambrosetti–Rabinowitz condition on the subcritical nonlinearity f. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Graphene/montmorillonite hybrid nanocomposites based on polypropylene: Morphological, mechanical, and rheological properties
Authors: Mekhzoum Mohamed El Mehdi , Essabir Hamid , Rodrigue Denis , Qaiss Abou el Kacem , Bouhfid Rachid
Published: August 2016

The preparation and characterization of hybrid nanocomposites based on polypropylene (PP) with Moroccan montmorillonite (MMT)/graphene nanosheets (GNs) is reported in this article. In particular, hybrid nanocomposites were prepared by melt compounding for different MMT:GNs ratio for a total loading of 3 wt%. From the samples produced, nanofiller dispersion in the polymer was monitored by scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to better understand the interactions between both nanofillers and the matrix. Then, tensile and torsion tests were performed to characterize the nanocomposites in the solid state, while rheological properties were obtained in the melt state to better understand the complete behavior of these hybrid nanocomposites. The results show that GNs is more effective than MMT at modifying the properties of these nanocomposites, but taking everything into account, a 50/50MMT/GNs ratio is optimum which represents a good balance between strength, ductility, and rigidity under the conditions tested. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:2046–2053, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Haemoglobin A1c as a screening tool to identify pre‐diabetes and diabetes in postpartum women with gestational diabetes
Authors: Dulipsingh Latha , Cooney Sally , Whitaker Margaret , Demarest Carole , Patel Dhruv , Roy Michele , Spurrier Wendy
Published: August 2016

The primary objective of this study was to determine the right test and time for postpartum screening of women with gestational diabetes to identify diabetes mellitus or impaired glucose tolerance.

Retrospective data were collected on women with gestational diabetes followed at the Center for Diabetes and Metabolic Care at Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center, Hartford, Connecticut, USA.

Of the 150 women included in this study, blood work was completed in 42 (28%) of the subjects. Of the women completing laboratory tests, 23 of them (56.1%) had an abnormal test result. Using the standard tests, 15 (41.7%) of the women tested positive based on HbA1c ≥5.7% (39 mmol/mol), six (16.7%) based on fasting glucose ≥100 mg/dl (5.6 mmol/L), and 10 (27%) based on 2‐hour 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) ≥140 mg/dl (7.8 mmol/L). However, due to better negative predictive value, HbA1c was more accurate than 2‐hour OGTT.

Of the standard testing available, HbA1c alone identified the majority of the subjects with an abnormal test. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons.
Structural mutation analysis of PTEN and its genotype‐phenotype correlations in endometriosis and cancer
Authors: Smith Iris N. , Briggs James M.
Published: August 2016

The phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome ten (PTEN) gene encodes a tumor suppressor phosphatase that has recently been found to be frequently mutated in patients with endometriosis, endometrial cancer and ovarian cancer. Here, we present the first computational analysis of 13 somatic missense PTEN mutations associated with these phenotypes. We found that a majority of the mutations are associated in conserved positions within the active site and are clustered within the signature motif, which contain residues that play a crucial role in loop conformation and are essential for catalysis. In silico analyses were utilized to identify the putative effects of these mutations. In addition, coarse‐grained models of both wild‐type (WT) PTEN and mutants were constructed using elastic network models to explore the interplay of the structural and global dynamic effects that the mutations have on the relationship between genotype and phenotype. The effects of the mutations reveal that the local structure and interactions affect polarity, protein structure stability, electrostatic surface potential, and global dynamics of the protein. Our results offer new insight into the role in which PTEN missense mutations contribute to the molecular mechanism and genotypic‐phenotypic correlation of endometriosis, endometrial cancer, and ovarian cancer. Proteins 2016; 84:1625–1643. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Amitraz and its metabolite differentially activate α‐ and β‐adrenergic‐like octopamine receptors
Authors: Kita Tomo , Hayashi Takeshi , Ohtani Tomohiro , Takao Haruka , Takasu Hiroshi , Liu Genyan , Ohta Hiroto , Ozoe Fumiyo , Ozoe Yoshihisa
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND

Amitraz is a formamidine acaricide and insecticide used to control ticks, mites and fleas. N2‐(2,4‐Dimethylphenyl)‐N1‐methyformamidine (DPMF), a metabolite of amitraz, is thought to be an active agent that exerts acaricidal and insecticidal effects by acting as an agonist on octopamine receptors. The emergence of cattle ticks resistant to amitraz is a serious problem that requires urgent attention. The objective of this research was to determine which type of octopamine receptor is the primary target of amitraz and thereby understand the molecular mechanisms of action and resistance to amitraz.

RESULTS

Amitraz and DPMF potently activated Bombyx mori α‐ and β‐adrenergic‐like octopamine receptors (α‐ and β‐AL OARs) that were stably expressed in HEK‐293 cells. Notably, DPMF elevated intracellular cAMP levels, with an EC50 of 79.6 pm in β‐AL OARs, the transcripts of which were prevalently and widely localised in B. mori body parts. Furthermore, DPMF elevated the intracellular Ca2+ levels, with an EC50 of 1.17 nm in α‐AL OARs.

CONCLUSION

Although both amitraz and DPMF acted as OAR agonists, the metabolite DPMF was more potent than amitraz and differentially activated α‐ and β‐AL OARs. The present findings provide a basis for studies to examine the mechanism of amitraz resistance and to develop novel acaricides and insecticides. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Analogies between Jahn–Teller and Rashba spin physics
Authors: Stroppa Alessandro , Barone Paolo , Di Sante Domenico , Cuoco Mario , Picozzi Silvia , Whangbo Myung‐Hwan
Published: August 2016

In developing physical theories, analogical reasoning has been found to be very powerful, as attested by a number of important historical examples. An analogy between two apparently different phenomena, once established, allows one to transfer information and bring new concepts from one phenomenon to the other. Here, we discuss an important analogy between two widely different physical problems, namely, the Jahn–Teller distortion in molecular physics and the Rashba spin splitting in condensed matter physics. By exploring their conceptual and mathematical features and by searching for the counterparts between them, we examine the orbital texture in Jahn–Teller systems, as the counterpart of the spin texture of the Rashba physics, and put forward a possible way of experimentally detecting the orbital texture. Finally, we discuss the analogy by comparing the coexistence of linear Rashba + Dresselhaus effects and Jahn–Teller problems for specific symmetries, which allow for nontrivial spin and orbital textures, respectively.
Recent Advances of Using Hybrid Nanocarriers in Remotely Controlled Therapeutic Delivery
Authors: Li Zibiao , Ye Enyi , David  , Lakshminarayanan Rajamani , Loh Xian Jun
Published: August 2016

The development of hybrid biomaterials has been attracting great attention in the design of materials for biomedicine. The nanosized level of inorganic and organic or even bioactive components can be combined into a single material by this approach, which has created entirely new advanced compositions with truly unique properties for drug delivery. The recent advances in using hybrid nanovehicles as remotely controlled therapeutic delivery carriers are summarized with respect to different nanostructures, including hybrid host–guest nanoconjugates, micelles, nanogels, core–shell nanoparticles, liposomes, mesoporous silica, and hollow nanoconstructions. In addition, the controlled release of guest molecules from these hybrid nanovehicles in response to various remote stimuli such as alternating magnetic field, near infrared, or ultrasound triggers is further summarized to introduce the different mechanisms of remotely triggered release behavior. Through proper chemical functionalization, the hybrid nanovehicle system can be further endowed with many new properties toward specific biomedical applications.
Identifying fusion transcripts using next generation sequencing
Authors: Kumar Shailesh , Razzaq Sundus Khalid , Vo Angie Duy , Gautam Mamta , Li Hui
Published: August 2016

Fusion transcripts (i.e., chimeric RNAs) resulting from gene fusions have been used successfully for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic applications. In addition, many fusion transcripts are found in normal human cell lines and tissues, with some data supporting their role in normal physiology. Besides chromosomal rearrangement, intergenic splicing can generate them. Global identification of fusion transcripts becomes possible with the help of next generation sequencing technology like RNA‐Seq. In the past decade, major advancements have been made for chimeric RNA discovery due to the development of advanced sequencing platform and software packages. However, current software tools behave differently in terms of specificity, sensitivity, time, and computational memory usage. Recent benchmarking studies showed that none of the tools are inclusive. The development of high performance (accurate and fast), and user‐friendly fusion detection tool/pipeline is still an open quest. In this article, we review the existing software packages for fusion detection. We explain the methods of the tools, and discuss various factors that affect fusion detection. We summarize conclusions drawn from several comparative studies, and then discuss some of the pitfalls of these studies. We also describe the limitations of current tools, and suggest directions for future development. WIREs RNA 2016, 7:811–823. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1382

This article is categorized under:

RNA Evolution and Genomics > Computational Analyses of RNA

RNA Processing > RNA Editing and Modification

RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease