bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ChemInform Abstract: 8‐Hydroxyquinoline and Its Derivatives: Synthesis and Applications
Authors: Al‐Busafi Saleh N. , Suliman Fakhr Eldin O. , Al‐Alawi Zaid R.
Published: November 2014

Review: 36 refs.
Quality of life over 5 years after a breast cancer diagnosis among low‐income women: Effects of race/ethnicity and patient‐physician communication
Authors: Maly Rose C. , Liu Yihang , Liang Li‐Jung , Ganz Patricia A.
Published: November 2014

BACKGROUND

The current study was performed to identify risk factors for a lower quality of life (QOL) among low‐income women with breast cancer (BC), with an emphasis on the impact of patient‐physician communication. In addition, ethnic/racial group differences in QOL changes over time were examined.

METHODS

A longitudinal study was conducted among 921 low‐income women with BC. Patients were interviewed at 6 months, 18 months, 36 months, and 60 months after their diagnosis of BC. Mixed‐effect regression models were performed to investigate predictors for and time effects on QOL. The main outcomes included the Medical Outcomes Study Health Survey Short Form‐36 Mental Component Summary scale (SF‐36 MCS), Medical Outcomes Study Health Survey Short Form‐36 Physical Component Summary scale (SF‐36 PCS), and the Ladder of Life scale. Chief independent variables included physician information‐giving and patient self‐efficacy in interacting with physicians.

RESULTS

There were no significant changes noted over time in QOL except with regard to physical functioning, with survivors reporting a significant decrease over time (P<.0001). Mean SF‐36 MCS and SF‐36 PCS scores were lower than national general population norms at all time points. Both patient self‐efficacy in interacting with physicians and physician information‐giving were found to be positively associated with the SF‐36 MCS (P = .03 and P = .02, respectively) and Ladder of Life (P = .01 and P = .03, respectively) scales. Latinas who were less acculturated reported higher SF‐36 MCS and SF‐36 PCS scores (P<.0001 and P = .01, respectively) and better global QOL (P<.0001) than white women.

CONCLUSIONS

Low‐income women with BC experienced poor physical and mental health. The results of the current study suggest that QOL among low‐income women with BC would be enhanced by interventions aimed at empowering patients in communicating with physicians and increasing the amount of information provided by physicians. Cancer 2015;121:916–926. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Modeling of Structural, Energetic, and Dynamic Properties of Few‐Atom Silver Clusters Embedded in Polynucleotide Strands by Using Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Staelens Nicolas , Leherte Laurence , Champagne Benoît , Vercauteren Daniel P.
Published: November 2014

This work concerns the study of the structural, energetic, and dynamic properties of fluorescent systems composed of silver clusters stabilized by polynucleotide strands. To do so, classical interaction potentials relative to silver, neutral and cationic, were introduced in the AMBER force field. Molecular dynamics simulations allowed analysis of the nature and force of the interactions between the various parts of the nucleic oligomers and the silver clusters. Conformational analyses were necessary to explore the flexibility of the supramolecular assemblies, specifically by radial distribution functions and Ramachandran‐type maps.
Non‐Ideal Mixing Behaviour of Hydrogen Bonding in Mixtures of Protic Ionic Liquids
Authors: Fumino Koichi , Bonsa Anne‐Marie , Golub Benjamin , Paschek Dietmar , Ludwig Ralf
Published: November 2014

Ionic liquids (ILs) attract interest in science and technology as a result of their unique properties. Binary and ternary mixtures of ILs significantly increase the number of possible cation/anion combinations, resulting in targeted physical and chemical properties. In this work, we study the mixing behaviour of two protic ILs: triethyl ammonium methylsulfonate [Et3NH][CH3SO3] and triethylammonium triflate [Et3NH][CF3SO3]. We find a characteristic deviation from ideal mixing by means of low‐frequency infrared spectroscopy. By using molecular dynamics simulations, we explain this behaviour as being the result of different strengths of anion/cation hydrogen bonding. This non‐ideality of non‐random H‐bond mixing is also reflected in macroscopic properties such as the viscosity. Mixing suitable ILs may, thus, result in new ILs with targeted physical properties.
Motion‐Based, High‐Yielding, and Fast Separation of Different Charged Organics in Water
Authors: Xuan Mingjun , Lin Xiankun , Shao Jingxin , Dai Luru , He Qiang
Published: November 2014

We report a self‐propelled Janus silica micromotor as a motion‐based analytical method for achieving fast target separation of polyelectrolyte microcapsules, enriching different charged organics with low molecular weights in water. The self‐propelled Janus silica micromotor catalytically decomposes a hydrogen peroxide fuel and moves along the direction of the catalyst face at a speed of 126.3 μm s−1. Biotin‐functionalized Janus micromotors can specifically capture and rapidly transport streptavidin‐modified polyelectrolyte multilayer capsules, which could effectively enrich and separate different charged organics in water. The interior of the polyelectrolyte multilayer microcapsules were filled with a strong charged polyelectrolyte, and thus a Donnan equilibrium is favorable between the inner solution within the capsules and the bulk solution to entrap oppositely charged organics in water. The integration of these self‐propelled Janus silica micromotors and polyelectrolyte multilayer capsules into a lab‐on‐chip device that enables the separation and analysis of charged organics could be attractive for a diverse range of applications.
Retracted: A Naphthalenediimide‐Based Fluorescent Sensor for Detecting the pH within the Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum of Living Cells
Authors: Ghule Namdev V. , Bhosale Rajesh S. , Kharat Kiran , Puyad Avinash L. , Bhosale Sheshanath V. , Bhosale Sidhanath V.
Published: November 2014

An amino‐core‐substituted naphthalenediimide (NDI) derivative has been synthesized in good yield in two steps. The NDI bearing a diamine moiety undergoes a reversible protonation–deprotonation process, which results in intensity changes in the absorption and emission spectra. This derivative exhibits good photostability, good selectivity, high sensitivity, and is employed to exhibit the pH within the rough endoplasmic reticulum of living cells.
A New Class of Single‐Component Absorbents for Reversible Carbon Dioxide Capture under Mild Conditions
Authors: Barzagli Francesco , Lai Sarah , Mani Fabrizio
Published: November 2014

Some inexpensive and commercially available secondary amines reversibly react with CO2 at room temperature and ambient pressure to yield carbonated species in the liquid phase in the absence of any additional solvent. These solvent‐free absorbents have a high CO2 capture capacity (0.63–0.65 mol CO2/mol amine) at 1.0 bar (=100 kPa), combined with low‐temperature reversibility at ambient pressure. 13C NMR spectroscopy analysis identified the carbonated species as the carbamate salts and unexpected carbamic acids. These absorbents were used for CO2 (15 and 40 % in air) capture in continuous cycles of absorption–desorption carried out in packed columns, yielding an absorption efficiency of up to 98.5 % at absorption temperatures of 40–45 °C and desorption temperatures of 70–85 °C at ambient pressure. The absence of any parasitic solvent that requires to be heated and stability towards moisture and heating could result in some of these solvent‐free absorbents being a viable alternative to aqueous amines for CO2 chemical capture.
Selective Modulation of Charge‐Carrier Transport of a Photoanode in a Photoelectrochemical Cell by a Graphitized Fullerene Interfacial Layer
Authors: Park Sun‐Young , Lim Dong Chan , Hong Eun Mi , Lee Joo‐Yeoul , Heo Jinhee , Lim Jae Hong , Lee Chang‐Lyoul , Kim Young Dok , Mul Guido
Published: November 2014

We show that a graphitic carbon interfacial layer, derived from C70 by annealing at 500 °C, results in a significant increase in the attainable photocurrent of a photoelectrochemical cell that contains a WO3‐functionalized fluorine‐doped tin oxide (FTO) photoanode. Time‐resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy, photoconductive atomic force microscopy, Hall measurements, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy show that the increase in photocurrent is the result of fast and selective electron transport from optically excited WO3 through the graphitic carbon interfacial layer to the FTO‐coated glass electrode. Thus the energy efficiency of perspective solar‐to‐fuel devices can be improved by modification of the interface of semiconductors and conducting substrate electrodes by using graphitized fullerene derivatives.
Prostaglandin E synthase interacts with inducible heat shock protein 70 after heat stress in bovine primary dermal fibroblast cells
Authors: Richter Constanze , Viergutz Torsten , Schwerin Manfred , Weitzel Joachim M.
Published: November 2014

Exposure to heat stress in dairy cows leads to undesired side effects that are reflected by complex alterations in endocrine parameters, such as reduced progesterone, estradiol, and thyroid hormone concentrations. These endocrine maladaptation leads to failure to resume cyclicity, a poor uterine environment and inappropriate immune responses in postpartum dairy cows. Prostaglandins (PG's) are lipid mediators, which serve as signal molecules in response to various external stimuli as well as to cell‐specific internal signal molecules. A central role in PG synthesis plays prostaglandin E synthase (PGES) that catalyzes the isomerization of PGH2 to PGE2.The present study was conducted to investigate heat stress associated PGES expression. Expression of PGES and inducible heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), as a putative chaperonic protein, was studied in bovine primary fibroblasts under different heat shock conditions. Bovine primary fibroblasts produce PGE2 at homoiothermical norm temperature (38.5°C in bovine), but reduce PGE2 production rates under extreme heat stress (at 45°C for 6 h). By contrast, PGE2 production rates are maintained after a milder heat stress (at 41.5°C for 6 h). PGE2 synthesis is abolished by application of cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin, indicating de novo synthesis. Heat stress increases HSP70 but not PGES protein concentrations. HSP70 physically interacts with PGES and the PGES‐HSP70 complex did not dissociate upon heat stress at 45°C even after returning the cells to 37°C. The PGE2 production negatively correlates with the portion of PGES‐HSP70 complex. These results suggest a protein interaction between HSP70 and PGES in dermal fibroblast cells. Blockage of PGES protein by HSP70 seems to interfere with the regulatory processes essential for cellular adaptive protection. © 2014 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Network provides support for students in graduate health science, medical education
Authors: Meeks Lisa M. , Montgomery Timothy , Moorehead Gregory
Published: November 2014

Disability services providers often feel challenged when faced with unique accommodation requests from students in graduate health science and medical education programs. And it's no wonder.
Expand knowledge base to promote compliance, awareness
Authors: Gomez Cynthia
Published: November 2014

Each month, this regular feature provides you with a brief, yet in‐depth, conversation with the leaders in the field of disability services.
Nest destruction elicits indiscriminate con‐ versus heterospecific brood parasitism in a captive bird
Authors: Shaw Rachael C. , Feeney William E. , Hauber Mark E.
Published: November 2014

Following nest destruction, the laying of physiologically committed eggs (eggs that are ovulated, yolked, and making their way through the oviduct) in the nests of other birds is considered a viable pathway for the evolution of obligate interspecific brood parasitism. While intraspecific brood parasitism in response to nest predation has been experimentally demonstrated, this pathway has yet to be evaluated in an interspecific context. We studied patterns of egg laying following experimental nest destruction in captive zebra finches, Taeniopygia guttata, a frequent intraspecific brood parasite. We found that zebra finches laid physiologically committed eggs indiscriminately between nests containing conspecific eggs and nests containing heterospecific eggs (of Bengalese finches, Lonchura striata vars. domestica), despite the con‐ and heterospecific eggs differing in both size and coloration. This is the first experimental evidence that nest destruction may provide a pathway for the evolution of interspecific brood parasitism in birds.
Variation in wing pattern and palatability in a female‐limited polymorphic mimicry system
Authors: Long Elizabeth C. , Hahn Thomas P. , Shapiro Arthur M.
Published: November 2014

Checkerspot butterflies in the genera Euphydryas and Chlosyne exhibit phenotypic polymorphisms along a well‐defined latitudinal and elevational gradient in California. The patterns of phenotypic variation in Euphydryas chalcedona, Chlosyne palla, and Chlosyne hoffmanni suggest a mimetic relationship; in addition, the specific patterns of variation in C. palla suggest a female‐limited polymorphic mimicry system (FPM). However, the existence of polymorphic models runs counter to predictions of mimicry theory. Palatability trials were undertaken to assess whether or not the different color morphs of each species were distasteful or toxic to a generalized avian predator, the European starling (Sturnus vulgaris). Results indicate that the black morph of E. chalcedona is distasteful, but not toxic, to predators, while the red morph is palatable. C. hoffmanni and both color morphs of C. palla are palatable to predators. Predators that learn to reject black E. chalcedona also reject black C. palla, suggesting that the latter is a FPM of the former. C. hoffmanni does not appear to be involved in this mimetic relationship.
Protective effects of spironolactone against anthracycline‐induced cardiomyopathy
Authors: Akpek Mahmut , Ozdogru Ibrahim , Sahin Omer , Inanc Mevlude , Dogan Ali , Yazici Cevat , Berk Veli , Karaca Halit , Kalay Nihat , Oguzhan Abdurrahman , Ergin Ali
Published: November 2014

Aims

The protective effect of beta‐blockers, ACE inhibitors, and ARBs on anthracycline cardiotoxicity has already been demonstrated, but the effect of aldosterone antagonism, which inhibits the last step of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS), was questioned. This study sought to investigate whether spironolactone protects the heart against anthracycline‐induced cardiotoxicity.

Methods and results

Eighty‐three female patients who were diagnosed with breast cancer were included in the study. The study population was randomized into spironolactone and control groups. A dose of 25 mg/day spironolactone was administered to the patients in the spironolactone group. There were 43 patients (mean age 50 ± 11 years) in the spironolactone group and 40 patients (mean age 51 ± 10 years) in the control group. LVEF decreased from 67.0 ± 6.1 to 65.7 ± 7.4 (P = 0.094) in the spironolactone group, and from 67.7 ± 6.3 to 53.6 ± 6.8 in the control group (P < 0.001). When the general linear model was applied, the interaction of LVEF decrease between groups was significantly lower in the spironolactone group than in the control group (P < 0.001). The diastolic functional grade of subjects in the spironolactone group was protected (P = 0.096), whereas it deteriorated in the control group (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

We showed that spironolactone administration used simultaneously with anthracycline group chemotherapeutics protects both myocardial systolic and diastolic functions. Spironolactone can be used to protect against anthracycline‐induced cardiotoxicity.

Trial registration: NCT02053974.
Lipid profile of mice fed a high‐fat diet supplemented with a wax ester‐rich marine oil
Authors: Pedersen Alice Marie , Salma Wahida , Höper Anje Christina , Larsen Terje Steinar , Olsen Ragnar Ludvig
Published: November 2014

Oil extracted from the marine copepod Calanus finmarchicus contains the long chain omega‐3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid and DHA in addition to stearidonic acid (18:4n‐3). Unlike other marine lipids, the fatty acids in this oil are esterified with long chain fatty alcohols as wax esters. The aim of this study was to examine the fate of the wax esters in oil from C. finmarchicus when given as a 2% supplement in a high fat diet to C57BL/6J mice for 11 weeks. The study confirmed that feeding mice a high fat diet supplemented with a small amount of oil containing wax esters reduced the body weight gain. During digestion, wax esters were hydrolyzed and the fatty acids absorbed since the fatty acid composition of the adipose tissue and liver reflected the enrichment with the Calanus oil. The composition of the liver lipids demonstrated elongation and desaturation of the C18 omega‐3 fatty acids from the feed and accumulation of longer chained omega‐3 fatty acids. Elevated levels of FFA and FAOH in the feces suggest that the absorption process, not the hydrolysis, could be a rate limiting step in utilization of small amounts of wax esters included in high fat diets in mice.

Practical applications: The limited amount of available fish oil has led to extensive search for alternative sources of long‐chain PUFA. One suggestion is to harvest at lower trophic levels, like small crustaceans, which may be abundantly present in the oceans. In this investigation, we have studied the effects of including the astaxanthin‐rich oil from the marine copepod C. finmarchicus in a high fat diet in mice. This oil is different from other marine oils since most of the fatty acids are esterified to long‐chain fatty alcohols, not in TAG, and that stearidonic acid is the major omega‐3 fatty acid present. The results provide knowledge and understanding of aspects related to digestion and possible physiological effects of including small amounts of marine wax esters in diets.

The lipid class composition in the feces from mice fed a high fat diet or a high fat diet supplemented with a wax ester rich oil were similar except for the pronounced amount of fatty alcohols in feces of the latter.
World Soil Day and earth surface processes
Authors: Kirkby Michael J.
Published: November 2014

To celebrate World Soil Day 2014, this editorial summary and Special Issue draws together a number of the most significant contributions that have appeared in Earth Surface Processes and Landforms since 2010. As a group they show the increasing importance of interdisciplinary work in this area of overlap, and point to significant opportunities for future research development, particularly with respect to integrated modelling and interactions with climate change. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phytosociological and palynological studies of alpine steppe communities on the northern Tibetan Plateau, Qinghai Province, China
Authors: Müller Carolina , Kürschner Harald
Published: November 2014

The dry cold climate in the highland of the eastern Kunlun Mountains in Qinghai Province, north‐western part of China supports the establishment of alpine grassland, consisting of Poaceae and Cyperaceae species and dwarf shrub communities dominated by Potentilla and Krascheninnikovia shrubs. The phytosociological vegetation studies carried out around Lake Heihai (36°00′N/93°26′E, 4446 m a.s.l.) reveals a complex pattern of high mountainous vegetation, including three major vegetation communities. A Polygonum sibiricum community occupies wet and slightly saline sites close to the Heihai lake shoreline and Kobresia robusta and Poa pachyantha communities are characteristic for the drier slopes. These communities differ in ecological conditions, exposure and several characteristic species that form local subunits. Main ecological factors influencing plant growth are moisture coming from glacial melt water and the composition and texture of the surface sediments. The atmospheric circulation (i.e. monsoonal wind system) and the different amount of insolation of the southern and northern slopes are of minor importance for the establishment of the different communities. The reflection of the vegetation composition in the modern pollen rain is generally poor, since the pollen spectrum is highly influenced by the local appearance of taxa. Though the vegetation unit of a alpine steppe can be detected. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Novelty in Centaurea sect. Acrocentron (Asteraceae, Cardueae) from Iran
Authors: Ranjbar Massoud , Negaresh Kazem , Joharchi Mohammad Reza
Published: November 2014

A new species, Centaurera bojnordensis Ranjbar, Negaresh & Joharchi (Asteraceae), endemic to Khorasan Province in northeastern Iran and belonging to Centaurea sect. Acrocentron, is described and illustrated. This species is mainly distinguished from C. sintenisiana of C. sect. Acrocentron by its indumentum of stem, shape and size of involucres, cilia and spine length. In addition, geographical distribution of the two species is presented and shown. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Optical coherence elastography for tissue characterization: a review
Authors: Wang Shang , Larin Kirill V.
Published: November 2014

Optical coherence elastography (OCE) represents the frontier of optical elasticity imaging techniques and focuses on the micro‐scale assessment of tissue biomechanics in 3D that is hard to achieve with traditional elastographic methods. Benefit from the advancement of optical coherence tomography, and driven by the increasing requirements in nondestructive biomechanical characterization, this emerging technique recently has experienced a rapid development. In this paper, we start with the description of the mechanical contrast that has been employed by OCE and review the state‐of‐the‐art techniques based on the reported applications and discuss the current technical challenges, emphasizing the unique role of OCE in tissue mechanical characterization.

The position of OCE among other elastography techniques.

magnified image

The position of OCE among other elastography techniques.
Who Finds Bill Gates Sexy? Creative Mate Preferences as a Function of Cognitive Ability, Personality, and Creative Achievement
Authors: Kaufman Scott Barry , Kozbelt Aaron , Silvia Paul , Kaufman James C. , Ramesh Sheela , Feist Gregory J.
Published: November 2014

Creativity is sexy, but are all creative behaviors equally sexy? We attempted to clarify the role of creativity in mate selection among an ethnically diverse sample of 815 undergraduates. First we assessed the sexual attractiveness of different forms of creativity: ornamental/aesthetic, applied/technological, and everyday/domestic creativity. Both males and females preferred ornamental/aesthetic forms of creativity in a prospective sexual partner than applied/technological and everyday/domestic forms of creativity. Secondly, we assessed the simultaneous prediction of general cognitive ability, personality, divergent thinking, self‐perceptions of creativity, and creative achievement on preferences for different forms of creativity in a prospective sexual partner. The results were generally consistent with assortative mating. The most robust predictors of a preference for applied/technological forms of creativity in a potential sexual partner were intellectual interests and creative achievement in applied/technological domains. In contrast, the most robust predictor of a preference for ornamental/aesthetic forms of creativity was openness to experience. The results suggest that openness to experience and its associated aesthetic, perceptual, and affective aspects are the primary characteristics influencing the sexual attractiveness of a creative display. Further, the results demonstrate the importance of also taking into account individual differences in personality, interests, and creative achievement when considering the sexual attractiveness of different manifestations of creativity.
Postglacial variability in near‐bottom current speed on the continental shelf off south‐west Spitsbergen
Authors: STERNAL BEATA , SZCZUCISKI WITOLD , FORWICK MATTHIAS , ZAJĄCZKOWSKI MAREK , LORENC STANISŁAW , PRZYTARSKA JOANNA
Published: November 2014

This study documents changes in the sedimentary environment on the outer continental shelf off south‐west Spitsbergen during the last ∼14 000 cal a BP using sedimentological, mineralogical and geochemical data from a sea‐bed sediment core. We use the sortable silt fraction to infer fluctuations of near‐bottom current speed and determine sediment provenance and sediment transport paths. For most of the record length, sediments were derived from distal sources by the West Spitsbergen Current (WSC) and the East Spitsbergen Current (ESC). However, before ∼12 000 and after ∼1800 cal a BP sediments were also sourced from proximal sources in south‐west Spitsbergen. The slowest near‐bottom currents were recorded between 10 300 and 9700 cal a BP when an increase in water stratification occurred, probably due to the strengthening of the ESC and an associated reduction in the northward water and heat flux. Near‐bottom currents related to WSC activity were at their maximum between 9000 and 7500 cal a BP, i.e. during a period of elevated water temperature, probably resulting in maximum relative heat fluxes to the Arctic.
Tephra redeposition and mixing in a Late‐glacial hillside basin determined by fusion of clustering analyses of glass‐shard geochemistry
Authors: POUGET SOLÈNE , BURSIK MARCUS , ROGOVA GALINA
Published: November 2014

Two discontinuous tephra layers were discovered at Burney Spring Mountain, northern California. Stratigraphic relationships suggest that they are two distinct primary fall tephras. The geochemistries of these tephras from electron probe microanalysis were compared with those of known layers found in the area to test for potential correlations, using clustering analysis on geochemistry. In most cases, geochemical data from a tephra layer can be assigned to a single cluster, but in some cases the analyses are spread over several clusters. This spreading is a direct result of mixing and reworking of several tephra layers. The mixing, in turn, appears to be related to the influence of wind in a marshy environment.
Raman spectroscopy application in frozen carrot cooked in different ways and the relationship with carotenoids
Authors: Camorani Paolo , Chiavaro Emma , Cristofolini Luigi , Paciulli Maria , Zaupa Maria , Visconti Attilio , Fogliano Vincenzo , Pellegrini Nicoletta
Published: November 2014

BACKGROUND

Raman spectroscopy, in its confocal micro‐Raman variation, has been recently proposed as a spatially resolved method to identify carotenoids in various food matrices, being faster, non‐destructive, and avoiding sample extraction, but no data are present in the literature concerning its application to the evaluation of carotenoid pattern changes after thermal treatment of carrots.

RESULTS

The effect of three cooking methods (i.e. boiling, steaming and microwaving) was evaluated on frozen carrot, comparing changes on carotenoid profiles measured by means of Raman spectroscopy with their high‐performance liquid chromatographic determination and colour. A more pronounced detrimental effect on carotenoids was detected in steamed carrots, in accordance with colour data. Conversely, boiling and, to a lesser extent, microwaving caused an increase in carotenoid concentration. Cooking procedures affected the Raman spectral features of carotenoids, causing a shift of vibration frequencies towards a higher energy, increase in the spectral baseline and peak intensities as well as a broadening of their width, probably in relation to the thermal degradation of longer carotenoids (i.e. the all‐trans form) and the isomerization process. In particular, steamed samples showed a significantly higher increase of centre frequency, in accordance with a more pronounced isomerization and changes in colour parameters.

CONCLUSION

This work showed that the evolution of Raman spectral parameters could provide information on carotenoid bioaccessibility for carrots cooked using various methods. This paves the way for a future use of this technique to monitor and optimize cooking processes aimed at maximizing carotenoid bioaccessibility and bioavailability. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Compositional and biochemical changes in Genestoso cheese, a Spanish raw cow's milk variety, during ripening
Authors: Arenas Ricardo , González Leticia , Sacristán Noelia , Tornadijo María E , Fresno José M
Published: November 2014

BACKGROUND

Physicochemical characteristics, proteolysis and lipolysis were studied throughout the ripening of eight batches of a traditional Spanish variety made from raw cow's milk, in order to establish a basis for its industrial production.

RESULTS

The main compositional characteristics of this cheese after 60 days of ripening were its high proportion of total solids (TS; 752 g kg−1 of cheese), an average content of protein (452.8 g kg−1 TS) and fat (475.1 g kg−1 TS) and the presence of residual lactose (12.5 g kg−1 TS). Its pH value (4.04) was extremely low. Phosphorus (5.13 g kg−1 TS) and sodium (8.29 g kg−1 TS) were the most abundant mineral elements in cheese, whereas calcium levels (1.92 g kg−1 TS) were very low. Proteolysis extension and depth were very low, which resulted in almost zero degradation of αs1‐ and β‐casein. Fat acidity increased during ripening, reaching final values of 50.1 mg KOH kg−1 of fat. The main free fatty acid was C16:0, followed by C18:1 and C14:0.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that this variety undergoes a limited proteolysis and moderate lipolysis during ripening. The low pH, low calcium content and limited proteolysis led to a crumbly texture in this cheese variety. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Molecular mechanisms and design principles for promiscuous inhibitors to avoid drug resistance: Lessons learned from HIV‐1 protease inhibition
Authors: Shen Yang , Radhakrishnan Mala L. , Tidor Bruce
Published: November 2014

Molecular recognition is central to biology and ranges from highly selective to broadly promiscuous. The ability to modulate specificity at will is particularly important for drug development, and discovery of mechanisms contributing to binding specificity is crucial for our basic understanding of biology and for applications in health care. In this study, we used computational molecular design to create a large dataset of diverse small molecules with a range of binding specificities. We then performed structural, energetic, and statistical analysis on the dataset to study molecular mechanisms of achieving specificity goals. The work was done in the context of HIV‐1 protease inhibition and the molecular designs targeted a panel of wild‐type and drug‐resistant mutant HIV‐1 protease structures. The analysis focused on mechanisms for promiscuous binding to bind robustly even to resistance mutants. Broadly binding inhibitors tended to be smaller in size, more flexible in chemical structure, and more hydrophobic in nature compared to highly selective ones. Furthermore, structural and energetic analyses illustrated mechanisms by which flexible inhibitors achieved binding; we found ligand conformational adaptation near mutation sites and structural plasticity in targets through torsional flips of asymmetric functional groups to form alternative, compensatory packing interactions or hydrogen bonds. As no inhibitor bound to all variants, we designed small cocktails of inhibitors to do so and discovered that they often jointly covered the target set through mechanistic complementarity. Furthermore, using structural plasticity observed in experiments, and potentially in simulations, is suggested to be a viable means of designing adaptive inhibitors that are promiscuous binders. Proteins 2015; 83:351–372. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Error control on spectral data of four‐wave mixing based on a‐SiC technology
Authors: Vieira M. A. , Vieira M. , Silva V. , Louro P. , Barata M.
Published: November 2014

In this paper we exploit the nonlinear property of the SiC multilayer devices to design an optical processor for error detection that enables reliable delivery of spectral data of four‐wave mixing over unreliable communication channels. The SiC optical processor is realized by using double pin/pin a‐SiC:H photodetector with front and back biased optical gating elements. Visible pulsed signals are transmitted together at different bit sequences. The combined optical signal is analyzed. Data show that the background acts as selector that picks one or more states by splitting portions of the input multi optical signals across the front and back photodiodes.

Boolean operations such as EXOR and three bit addition are demonstrated optically, showing that when one or all of the inputs are present, the system will behave as an XOR gate representing the SUM. When two or three inputs are on, the system acts as AND gate indicating the present of the CARRY bit. Additional parity logic operations are performed using four incoming pulsed communication channels that are transmitted and checked for errors together. As a simple example of this approach, we describe an all‐optical processor for error detection and then provide an experimental demonstration of this idea. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Unconventional digital computing approach: memristive nanodevice platform
Authors: Shahsavari Mahyar , Faisal Nadeem M. , Arash Ostadzadeh S. , Devienne Philippe , Boulet Pierre
Published: November 2014

Memristor is a two‐terminal nanodevice that has recently attracted the attention of many researchers. Its simple structure, non‐volatility behavior, high‐density integration, and low‐power consumption make the memristor a promising candidate to act as a switch in digital gates for future high‐performance and low‐power nanocomputing applications. In this paper, we model the behavior of memristor by using Verilog‐A. To investigate its characteristics in a circuit, we use the HSPICE simulator.

Furthermore, a library of digital gates are provided by using two approaches to make digital gates: the first one is based on material implication (IMP) and the second one is based on crossbar arrays. Finally, we perform a comparison and evaluation between the two methods. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Implementation of adaptive coupling through memristor
Authors: Frasca Mattia , Gambuzza Lucia Valentina , Buscarino Arturo , Fortuna Luigi
Published: November 2014

Since its discovery, memristor attracted a lot of attention for its potential applications as next generation electronic device, as system for modeling and implementing biological synapses and as key component in nonlinear circuits. Here we exploit the peculiarities of the HP memristor in order to realize an adaptive coupling, able to reach consensus and synchronization between two dynamical systems.

In particular, the coupling scheme consists of two HP memristors connected in antiparallel which allow to deal with consensus/synchronization error of either positive and negative sign. Simulation results on consensus of two agents with integrator dynamics and synchronization of two Chua's circuits show the suitability of the proposed approach. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Memristors under the influence of noise and temperature
Authors: Patterson G. A. , Sangiuliano Jimka F. , Fierens P. I. , Grosz D. F.
Published: November 2014

We study the performance of a manganite sample meant for memresistive applications. In particular, we experimentally address the interplay between temperature and electrical noise the sample is subject to. Results reveal an optimum noise amplitude that maximizes the contrast between low‐ and high‐resistive states, and a decaying contrast with increasing temperature. We introduce a numerical model accounting for the observed experimental behavior. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Employing threshold‐based behavior and network dynamics for the creation of memristive logic circuits and architectures
Authors: Vourkas Ioannis , Sirakoulis Georgios Ch.
Published: November 2014

This work focuses on the creation of logic circuits by employing the collective dynamics of assembles of reciprocal memristors. A novel circuit design methodology is described where the computing systems comprise passive memristors interfaced with active CMOS circuitry, working under already known circuit design principles from the CMOS technology. The accuracy and completeness of this straightforward methodology is demonstrated through SPICE simulations which are based on a threshold‐type device model for memristors. Overall, this work contributes to the creation of proper methodologies which will enable the development of efficient design flows for circuits and architectures comprising memristors. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Bio‐organic memristive device: polyaniline–Physarum polycephalum interface
Authors: Cifarelli Angelica , Berzina Tatiana , Erokhin Victor
Published: November 2014

Organic memristive device is an electronic system mimicking some properties of biological synapses. Slime mold – Physarum polycephalum – is a single cell living being, widely considered now for the unconventional computing application. This work is dedicated to the realization of hybrid organic memristive device/Physarum polycephalum system and studying of its electrical properties. It was found that the slime mold remains alive only when the appropriate biocompatible layer is inserted into the structure and that the characteristics of the system are very different from those of the standard organic memristive devices. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A convex approach for NMPC based on second order Volterra series models
Authors: Gruber J. K. , Ramirez D. R. , Limon D. , Alamo T.
Published: November 2014

In model predictive control (MPC), the input sequence is computed, minimizing a usually quadratic cost function based on the predicted evolution of the system output. In the case of nonlinear MPC (NMPC), the use of nonlinear prediction models frequently leads to non‐convex optimization problems with several minimums. This paper proposes a new NMPC strategy based on second order Volterra series models where the original performance index is approximated by quadratic functions, which represent a lower bound of the original performance index. Convexity of the approximating quadratic cost functions can be achieved easily by a suitable choice of the weighting of the control increments in the performance index. The approximating cost functions can be globally minimized by convex optimization techniques in order to compute the input sequence. The minimization of the performance index is carried out by an iterative optimization procedure, which guarantees convergence to the solution. Furthermore, for a nominal prediction model, asymptotic stability for the proposed NMPC strategy can be shown. In the case of considering an estimation error in the prediction model, input‐to‐state practical stability is assured. The control performance of the NMPC strategy is illustrated by experimental results. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bayesian mixed‐effects location and scale models for multivariate longitudinal outcomes: an application to ecological momentary assessment data
Authors: Kapur Kush , Li Xue , Blood Emily A. , Hedeker Donald
Published: November 2014

In the statistical literature, the methods to understand the relationship of explanatory variables on each individual outcome variable are well developed and widely applied. However, in most health‐related studies given the technological advancement and sophisticated methods of obtaining and storing data, a need to perform joint analysis of multivariate outcomes while explaining the impact of predictors simultaneously and accounting for all the correlations is in high demand. In this manuscript, we propose a generalized approach within a Bayesian framework that models the changes in the variation in terms of explanatory variables and captures the correlations between the multivariate continuous outcomes by the inclusion of random effects at both the location and scale levels. We describe the use of a spherical transformation for the correlations between the random location and scale effects in order to apply separation strategy for prior elicitation while ensuring positive semi‐definiteness of the covariance matrix. We present the details of our approach using an example from an ecological momentary assessment study on adolescents. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A cautionary note concerning the use of stabilized weights in marginal structural models
Authors: Talbot Denis , Atherton Juli , Rossi Amanda M. , Bacon Simon L. , Lefebvre Geneviève
Published: November 2014

Marginal structural models are commonly used to estimate the causal effect of a time‐varying treatment in presence of time‐dependent confounding. When fitting an MSM to data, the analyst must specify both the structural model for the outcome and the treatment models for the inverse‐probability‐of‐treatment weights. The use of stabilized weights is recommended because they are generally less variable than the standard weights. In this paper, we are concerned with the use of the common stabilized weights when the structural model is specified to only consider partial treatment history, such as the current or most recent treatments. We present various examples of settings where these stabilized weights yield biased inferences while the standard weights do not. These issues are first investigated on the basis of simulated data and subsequently exemplified using data from the Honolulu Heart Program. Unlike common stabilized weights, we find that basic stabilized weights offer some protection against bias in structural models designed to estimate current or most recent treatment effects. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Concise Reviews: The Role of Biomechanics in the Limbal Stem Cell Niche: New Insights for Our Understanding of This Structure
Authors: Eberwein Philipp , Reinhard Thomas
Published: November 2014

The limbal stem cell niche is a structure of the ocular surface that is characterized by high specification, organization, and clinical significance. Harboring the limbal epithelial stem cells, which are the progenitor cells of the corneal epithelium, it provides a niche environment that guarantees the self-renewal of the corneal epithelial stem cells throughout life. Growth factors, stromal niche cells, and specific extracellular matrix compositions provide this environment. In recent years, another important component has been added to this list: the biomechanical aspect of the niche. This review focuses on this new and still underestimated aspect, which exhibits a direct effect on cells and can also influence growth and differentiation. Stem Cells  2015;33:916–924
Responses of testis, epididymis, and sperm of pubertal rats exposed to functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Farombi Ebenezer O. , Adedara Isaac A. , Forcados Gilead E. , Anao Osemudiamen O. , Agbowo Agatha , Patlolla Anita K.
Published: November 2014

The present study investigated the response of testes, epididymides and sperm in pubertal Wistar rats following exposure to 0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1.0 mg kg−1 functionalized multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (f‐MWCNTs) for 5 days. The results showed that administration of (f‐MWCNTs) significantly increased the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase in a dose‐dependent manner in both testes and sperm compared with control group. Moreover, the significant decrease in the activity of glutathione‐S‐transferase and glutathione level was accompanied with significant elevation in the levels of hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde in both testes and sperm of (f‐MWCNTs)‐treated rats. The spermiogram of (f‐MWCNTs)‐treated rats indicated significant decrease in epididymal sperm number, sperm progressive motility, testicular sperm number and daily sperm production with elevated sperm abnormalities when compared with the control. Exposure to (f‐MWCNTs) decreased plasma testosterone level and produced marked morphological changes including decreased geminal epithelium, edema, congestion, reduced spermatogenic cells and focal areas of tubular degeneration in the testes. The lumen of the epididymides contained reduced sperm cells and there was mild to severe hyperplasia epithelial cells lining the duct of the epididymis. Collectively, pubertal exposure of male rats to (f‐MWCNTs) elicited oxidative stress response resulting in marked testicular and epididymides dysfunction. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 31: 543–551, 2016.
Bioaccumulation patterns, element partitioning and biochemical performance of Venerupis corrugata from a low contaminated system
Authors: Velez Catia , Freitas Rosa , Soares Amadeu , Figueira Etelvina
Published: November 2014

The current study reports metals and arsenic (As) concentrations present in sediments and in the native clam Venerupis corrugata, collected in the Ria de Aveiro, one of the most important aquatic systems of the Portuguese coast with high biodiversity and socio‐economic value. Because of its ecological importance in its habitat, and being one of the most exploited bivalve mollusks in Portugal, several biochemical biomarkers were evaluated in order to illustrate the species status when under environmental conditions. The concentration of metals and As in the sediments showed an increase of contamination among areas (areas A–E). The results proved higher bioaccumulation in organisms from the area less contaminated (area A, BAF > 1). The concentration of metals and As was predominant (63.4%) in the insoluble fraction of clams. The biochemical evaluation evidenced an increase of oxidative stress in organisms from the most (D and E) and the less (area A) contaminated areas, demonstrated by higher LPO levels, CAT, and GSHt activities at these areas and the increase of methalotionines (MTs) along the concentration gradient. This suggests a preventive mechanism in order to protect cells against pollutants (metals and As). © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 31: 569–583, 2016.
Absorption and metabolism of triclosan after application to the skin of B6C3F1 mice
Authors: Fang Jia‐Long , Vanlandingham Michelle , da Costa Gonçalo Gamboa , Beland Frederick A.
Published: November 2014

Triclosan is used as an antimicrobial agent in personal care products, household items, medical devices, and clinical settings. Humans can receive lifelong exposures to triclosan; however, data on the toxicity and carcinogenicity after topical application are lacking. This study determined the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of triclosan after application to the skin of B6C3F1 mice. [14C(U)]triclosan (10 or 100 mg triclosan/kg body weight) was administered topically to mice in two separate experiments: a vehicle selection experiment using propylene glycol, ethanol, and a generic cosmetic cream, and a toxicokinetic experiment. Mice were killed up to 72 h after triclosan administration, and excreta and tissues were analyzed for radioactivity. Ethanol had the best properties of the vehicles evaluated. Maximum absorption was obtained at approximately 12 h after dosing. Radioactivity appeared in the excreta and in all tissues examined, with the highest levels in the gall bladder and the lowest levels in the brain. Triclosan was metabolized to triclosan sulfate, triclosan glucuronide, 2,4‐dichlorophenol, and hydroxytriclosan. The metabolite profile was tissue‐dependent and the predominant route of excretion was fecal. The AUC0–∞ and the Cmax of plasma and liver in females were greater than those in males. Slightly lower absorption was observed in mice with Elizabethan collars. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 31: 609–623, 2016.