bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A regulatory gene (ECO‐orf4) required for ECO‐0501 biosynthesis in Amycolatopsis orientalis
Authors: Shen Yang , Huang He , Zhu Li , Luo Minyu , Chen Daijie
Published: May 2013

ECO‐0501 is a novel linear polyene antibiotic, which was discovered from Amycolatopsis orientalis. Recent study of ECO‐0501 biosynthesis pathway revealed the presence of regulatory gene: ECO‐orf4. The A. orientalis ECO‐orf4 gene from the ECO‐0501 biosynthesis cluster was analyzed, and its deduced protein (ECO‐orf4) was found to have amino acid sequence homology with large ATP‐binding regulators of the LuxR (LAL) family regulators. Database comparison revealed two hypothetical domains, a LuxR‐type helix‐turn‐helix (HTH) DNA binding motif near the C‐terminal and an N‐terminal nucleotide triphosphate (NTP) binding motif included. Deletion of the corresponding gene (ECO‐orf4) resulted in complete loss of ECO‐0501 production. Complementation by one copy of intact ECO‐orf4 restored the polyene biosynthesis demonstrating that ECO‐orf4 is required for ECO‐0501 biosynthesis. The results of overexpression ECO‐orf4 on ECO‐0501 production indicated that it is a positive regulatory gene. Gene expression analysis by reverse transcription PCR of the ECO‐0501 gene cluster showed that the transcription of ECO‐orf4 correlates with that of genes involved in polyketide biosynthesis. These results demonstrated that ECO‐orf4 is a pathway‐specific positive regulatory gene that is essential for ECO‐0501 biosynthesis.
Identification of aldolase and ferredoxin reductase within the dbt operon of Burkholderia fungorum DBT1
Authors: Piccoli Stefano , Andreolli Marco , Giorgetti Alejandro , Zordan Fabio , Lampis Silvia , Vallini Giovanni
Published: May 2013

Burkholderia fungorum DBT1, first isolated from settling particulate matter of an oil refinery wastewater, is a bacterial strain which has been shown capable of utilizing several polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) including dibenzothiophene (DBT). In particular, this microbe is able to efficiently degrade DBT through the Kodama pathway. Previous investigations have lead to the identification of six genes, on a total of eight, required for DBT degradation. In the present study, a combined experimental/computational approach was adopted to identify and in silico characterize the two missing genes, namely a ferredoxin reductase and a hydratase‐aldolase. Thus, the finding of all enzymatic components of the Kodama pathway in B. fungorum DBT1 makes this bacterial strain amenable for possible exploitation in soil bioremediation protocols.
ACC deaminase and IAA producing growth promoting bacteria from the rhizosphere soil of tropical rice plants
Authors: Bal Himadri Bhusan , Das Subhasis , Dangar Tushar K. , Adhya Tapan K.
Published: May 2013

Beneficial plant‐associated bacteria play a key role in supporting and/or promoting plant growth and health. Plant growth promoting bacteria present in the rhizosphere of crop plants can directly affect plant metabolism or modulate phytohormone production or degradation. We isolated 355 bacteria from the rhizosphere of rice plants grown in the farmers' fields in the coastal rice field soil from five different locations of the Ganjam district of Odisha, India. Six bacteria producing both ACC deaminase (ranging from 603.94 to 1350.02 nmol α‐ketobutyrate mg−1 h−1) and indole acetic acid (IAA; ranging from 10.54 to 37.65 μM ml−1) in pure cultures were further identified using polyphasic taxonomy including BIOLOG(R), FAME analysis and the 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Phylogenetic analyses of the isolates resulted into five major clusters to include members of the genera Bacillus, Microbacterium, Methylophaga, Agromyces, and Paenibacillus. Seed inoculation of rice (cv. Naveen) by the six individual PGPR isolates had a considerable impact on different growth parameters including root elongation that was positively correlated with ACC deaminase activity and IAA production. The cultures also had other plant growth attributes including ammonia production and at least two isolates produced siderophores. Study indicates that presence of diverse rhizobacteria with effective growth‐promoting traits, in the rice rhizosphere, may be exploited for a sustainable crop management under field conditions.
Mycolytic enzymes produced by Streptomyces violaceusniger and their role in antagonism towards wood‐rotting fungi
Authors: Nagpure Anand , Choudhary Bharti , Gupta Rajinder K.
Published: May 2013

Extracellular mycolytic enzymes produced under submerged fermentation by the fungal antagonist Streptomyces violaceusniger MTCC 3959 were characterized. This streptomycete produced higher amounts of extracellular chitinase and protease during late exponential phase, whereas β‐1,3‐glucanase production was at peak in mid‐stationary phase. Cell‐free culture filtrate (CCF) exhibited a broad range of antifungal activity against both white rot and brown rot fungi. The inhibitory activity was completely lost after treatment with proteinase K and heat, indicating that extracellular antifungal metabolites are heat labile and proteinaceous in nature. Optimum pH and temperature for enzyme activity were: 9.0 and 60 °C for chitinase; 6.0 and 60 °C for β‐1,3‐glucanase; and 9.0 and 70 °C for protease. Mycolytic enzymes were moderately thermostable, and had a wide pH stability range extending from pH 5.0 to 10.0. The zymogram analysis of CCF revealed five chitinase isoenzymes with an apparent molecular weight of 20.8, 33.3, 45.6, 67.4, and 114.8 kDa, one β‐1,3‐glucanase appeared as a single band of ∼131.8 kDa and four protease isoenzymes with approximate molecular weights of 22.8, 62.52, 74.64, and 120.5 kDa. S. violaceusniger MTCC 3959 produced mycolytic enzymes that can be effectively used for suppression of phytopathogenic basidiomycetes. It has the potential to be an effective biofungicide.
Pectinolytic yeasts from viticultural and enological environments: novel finding of Filobasidium capsuligenum producing pectinases
Authors: Merín María Gabriela , Mendoza Lucía M. , Morata de Ambrosini Vilma Inés
Published: May 2013

In this study indigenous yeasts associated with wineries, grapes and Malbec fermented must from San Rafael viticulture region (Argentina) were isolated to select pectinolytic strains for their potential use in enology. Pectinolytic yeasts were identified by physiological and molecular methods. Among 78 isolates, only nine were able to produce extracellular pectinases. Six isolated from berry surface were identified as Aureobasidium pullulans and the remaining isolates, recovered from wineries, belonged to Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Filobasidium capsuligenum species. Pectinase production was evaluated under vinification‐related conditions: pH 3.5, 12 and 28 °C. A. pullulans U‐12 produced the highest pectinolytic activity at low temperature (1.16 U ml−1), while F. capsuligenum strains showed good activity at 12 and 28 °C (0.77 and 1.15 U ml−1, respectively) being this study the first report on the capacity of this species to produce pectinases. The pectinolytic activity of F. capsuligenum B‐13 showed an optimum at pH 4.5 and two peaks at 20 and 50 °C. The enzyme half‐life was 2 h at 40 °C and retained 65% of its activity at 40 °C after 1 h of incubation. This pectinolytic system displayed remarkable activity at pH and temperatures found in vinification, suggesting a potential candidate for applying to wine‐making.
An extremophile Microbacterium strain and its protease production under alkaline conditions
Authors: Lü Jin , Wu Xiaodan , Jiang Yali , Cai Xiaofeng , Huang Luyao , Yang Yongbo , Wang Huili , Zeng Aibing , Li Aiying
Published: May 2013

Extremophiles are potential resources for alkaline protease production. In order to search for alkaline protease producers, we isolated and screened alkaliphilic microorganisms from alkaline saline environments. The microorganism HSL10 was identified as a member of the genus Microbacterium by morphological observation, Gram staining and sequence analysis of the 16S rRNA gene and the 16S–23S rRNA intergenic spacer region. By colony‐forming unit counting under alkali or salt stress, it was further identified as an alkaliphilic microbe with mild halotolerance. In addition, it was capable of secreting alkaline proteases, evidenced by larger hydrolyzation zones in the skim milk‐containing medium at pH 9.0 than at pH 7.0. Subsequently, we demonstrated that both NaCl and yeast extract significantly promoted protease production by HSL10. Finally, we established a sensitive colorimetric method for the detection of protease production by HSL10 under neutral and alkaline conditions, by using the Bradford reagent for substrate staining to improve the contrast between the hydrolyzation zone and the substrate background on agar plates. HSL10 was the first example of an alkaliphilic protease‐producing member in Microbacterium, and its isolation and characterization have both academic and commercial importance.
Oral homeostasis disruption by medical plasticizer component bisphenol A in adult male rats
Authors: Folia Mireille , Boudalia Sofiane , Ménétrier Franck , Decocq Laurence , Pasquis Bruno , Schneider Charles , Bergès Raymond , Artur Yves , Canivenc‐Lavier Marie‐Chantal
Published: May 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic estrogen‐like chemical mimetic widely used in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins found in numerous consumer products including food packaging, medical devices, and dental sealants. Because it is recovered in fluids and it can reach high levels in saliva, this study aimed to evaluate its safety on oral homeostasis by examining its effects on salivary glands, mouth epithelium, water consumption, and salt preference, each parameter being estrogen sensitive.

Study Design

Randomized controlled trial involving rats.

Methods

A dose‐response study was conducted in adult Wistar rats randomized into five groups (n = 12). BPA was administered over 6 weeks via drinking water to obtain daily dose exposures of 0 μg/kg, 5 μg/kg, 50 μg/kg, 5 mg/kg, and 12.5 mg/kg of body weight. To evaluate salt preference, 1% NaCl solution and pure water intakes were measured for 3 days by offering two‐bottle choices. The rats were then killed; oral biopsies were done and submandibular glands were removed for histologic and morphometric analysis.

Results

According to the dose‐response curve, BPA decreased total drinking but increased salt preference, which was inversely proportional to water consumption (Kruskal‐Wallis, P < .01). It also causes oral dryness and histologic changes in the acinar structures of the submandibular glands at the lowest doses (Kruskal‐Wallis, P < .01).

Conclusions

This study shows that oral exposure to BPA in the rat disrupts thirst and buccal homeostasis and raises questions about the salivary gland secretions.

Level of Evidence

N/A.
Surgical anatomy of human soft palate
Authors: Cho Jae Hoon , Kim Jin Kook , Lee Hye‐Yeon , Yoon Joo‐Heon
Published: May 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

The soft palate is composed of several muscles. So far, these muscles have been analyzed separately and the whole structure of the soft palate has been described very vaguely. The purpose of this study was to describe the structure of soft palate collectively.

Study Design

Human cadaver dissection.

Methods

Anatomical dissection was performed on 20 Korean, formalin‐fixed cadavers (13 men and 7 women). The heads were randomly assigned to either dissection groups, medial‐to‐lateral (10 heads) or posterior‐to‐anterior (10 heads).

Results

Fibro‐fatty layer was located in the oral side of the soft palate and became thick and dense along the midline. The levator veli palatini was distributed on the nasal side of the soft palate. The average vertical distance from the top of palatopharyngeal arch to the levator veli palatini was 12.3 ± 5.2 mm. The palatopharyngeus was also spread out widely and filled the palatopharyngeal arch. The periosteum of the hard palate became the fascia of the soft palate, which was merged with the aponeurosis of the tensor veli palatini in the midline. The Passavant's ridge was located between the levator veli palatini and palatopharyngeus, inserting onto the aponeurosis. The palatoglossus was very thin and embedded in the palatoglossal arch.

Conclusion

The muscles of the soft palate are intermingled with each other in the fibro‐fatty layer. Comprehensive anatomical knowledge is needed to reduce unnecessary damage and obtain good surgical results for obstructive sleep apnea.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 123:2900–2904, 2013
Lead and the deafness of Ludwig van Beethoven
Authors: Stevens Michael H. , Jacobsen Teemarie , Crofts Alicia Kay
Published: May 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To reexamine the cause of Beethoven's hearing loss because of significant recent articles.

Data Sources

Medical and musical literature online, in print, and personal communication.

Methods

Relevant literature review.

Results

Evidence of otosclerosis is lacking because close gross examination of Beethoven's middle ears at autopsy did not find any otosclerotic foci. His slowly progressive hearing loss over a period of years differs from reported cases of autoimmune hearing loss, which are rapidly progressive over a period of months. He also lacked bloody diarrhea that is invariably present with autoimmune inflammatory bowel disease. The absence of mercury in Beethoven's hair and bone samples leads us to conclude that his deafness was not due to syphilis because in that era syphilis was treated with mercury. High levels of lead deep in the bone suggest repeated exposure over a long period of time rather than limited exposure prior to the time of death. The finding of shrunken cochlear nerves at his autopsy is consistent with axonal degeneration due to heavy metals such as lead. Chronic low‐level lead exposure causes a slowly progressive hearing loss with sensory and autonomic findings, rather than the classic wrist drop due to motor neuropathy from sub‐acute poisoning. Beethoven's physicians thought that he had alcohol dependence. He particularly liked wine that happened to be tainted with lead.

Conclusions

Beethoven's chronic consumption of wine tainted with lead is a better explanation of his hearing loss than other causes.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 123:2854–2858, 2013
Access to the parapharyngeal space: An anatomical study comparing the endoscopic and open approaches
Authors: Van Rompaey Jason , Suruliraj Anand , Carrau Ricardo , Panizza Benedict , Solares C. Arturo
Published: May 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

A subtemporal preauricular approach to the infratemporal fossa and parapharyngeal space has been the traditional path to tumors of this region. The morbidity associated with this procedure has lead to the pursuit of less invasive techniques. Endoscopic access using a minimally invasive transmaxillary/transpterygoid approach potentially may obviate the drawbacks associated with open surgery. The anatomy of the parapharyngeal space is complex and critical; therefore, a comparison of the anatomy exposed by these different approaches could aid in the decision making toward a minimally invasive surgical corridor.

Study Design

Technical Note.

Methods

The parapharyngeal space was accessed endonasally by removal of the medial and posterior walls of the maxillary sinus. To allow better visualization and increased triangulation of a bimanual dissection technique, a sublabial canine fossa antrostomy was created. The medial and lateral pterygoid plates were removed. Further lateral dissection exposed the relevant anatomy of the parapharyngeal space. A subtemporal preauricular infratemporal approach was also completed.

Results

The endoscopic approach provided sufficient access to the superior portion of the parapharyngeal space. The open approach also provided adequate access; however, it required a larger surgical window, causing greater injury. A significant advantage of the subtemporal approach is the improved access to the petrous portion of the internal carotid artery. Conversely, the endonasal approach provided improved access to the anterior and medial portions of the superior parapharyngeal space.

Conclusion

Endoscopic endonasal access utilizing a transmaxillary/transpterygoid approach provides a sufficient surgical window for tumor extirpation. Utilization of this approach obviates some of the morbidity associated with an open procedure.

Level of Evidence

5. Laryngoscope, 123:2378–2382, 2013
Quantitative evaluation of vocal‐fold mucosal irregularities using GLCM‐based texture analysis
Authors: Song Chan Il , Ryu Chang Hwan , Choi Seung‐Ho , Roh Jong‐Lyel , Nam Soon Yuhl , Kim Sang Yoon
Published: May 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Visualization of the vocal folds is essential when reaching a primary diagnosis of laryngeal disease. However, the examination is subjective and highly dependent on the experience of the treating physician. The present study is the development of objective tools for the diagnosis of laryngeal malignancy based on laryngeal texture analysis.

Study Design

Texture analysis using gray‐level co‐occurrence matrix (GLCM) in vocal fold images of 198 patients.

Methods

Vocal‐fold images were subjected to texture analysis using gray‐level co‐occurrence matrix (GLCM)‐based parameters, which were computed by a novel digital image‐processing program. Patients were divided into two groups: those with benign‐looking lesions and those with malignant‐looking lesions. Textural irregularities were compared using GLCM‐based parameters. The relationship between the texture‐analysis parameters and the diagnosis was then statistically evaluated.

Results

Texture irregularity was negatively correlated with energy and the inverse difference moment (IDM) and positively correlated with entropy, variance, contrast, dissimilarity, and mean values. All of the GLCM‐based parameters evaluated differed significantly according to the degree of differentiation of the benign‐ or malignant‐looking lesion (P < 0.001). Entropy had a sensitivity of 82.9% and a specificity of 82.2% at a cutoff value of 5.94; for variance, the sensitivity was 82.9% and the specificity was 84.5% at a cutoff value of 167.

Conclusion

GLCM‐based texture analysis of vocal‐fold lesions, especially in association with a differential diagnosis of benign and malignant‐looking diseases, contributes to achieving an objective image‐based analysis of vocal‐fold lesions. In addition, this approach can be used to create algorithms permitting a reproducible classification of laryngeal pathologies.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 123:E45–E50, 2013
Otologic assessment of blast and nonblast injury in returning middle east‐deployed service members
Authors: Shah Anil , Ayala Marco , Capra Gregory , Fox David , Hoffer Michael
Published: May 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To determine if tympanic membrane perforation offers any protection from inner ear damage and determine the incidence and pattern of otologic blast injury in military personnel returning from deployment.

Study Design

Retrospective analysis of US service members injured in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom from October 2006 to October 2007.

Methods

One‐hundred ten blast‐injured patients were compared to 54 nonblast‐injured patients returning from deployment. Data captured included audiogram results, presence of tympanic membrane perforation, demographic data, location and nature of injury, loss of consciousness, sleep disturbance, confusion, and symptoms of headache, dizziness, memory loss, and tinnitus.

Results

Of 110 blast‐injured patients, 18 patients suffered tympanic membrane perforation (16%), of which nine patients suffered bilateral tympanic membrane perforation (8%). Blast patients suffered more hearing loss than controls as measured by pure‐tone averages of varying speech reception frequencies and at 6,000 Hz. Of the blast patients who recorded an audiogram, nearly 24% suffered moderate to profound hearing loss. There was no statistically significant difference in hearing outcomes between blast‐injured patients with tympanic membrane perforations and those without; however, when comparing patients with unilateral perforations with their contralateral ear, there was a difference in hearing thresholds at 6,000 Hz. There was a significantly increased risk of tinnitus, memory loss, headache, and dizziness between blast‐injured patients compared to controls.

Conclusions

Due to its violent nature, blast exposure causes greater neuro‐otological manifestations and deserves prompt otologic evaluation.

Level of Evidence

3b. Laryngoscope, 124:272–277, 2014
A Stimulus‐Response and Self‐Healing Supramolecular Polymer Gel Based on Host–Guest Interactions
Authors: Li Shuang , Lu Hai‐Yan , Shen Yun , Chen Chuan‐Feng
Published: May 2013

A supramolecular polymer gel is formed by host‐guest interactions between a DB24C8‐based bis(crown ether) and a copolymer containing the dibenzylammonium moiety. The formation of the gel and its cross‐linked networks structure are evidenced by 1H NMR spectroscopy, viscometry, and SEM. Interestingly, the gel shows both pH‐ and thermoesponsive behaviors, and excellent self‐healing properties. The self‐healing property of the gel is tested by rheological measurements, and it can also be seen visually and directly. The presented work provides a new strategy for the construction of the self‐healing supramolecular polymer gels with potential applications in smart materials.

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Facile Polymer Functionalization of Hydrothermal‐Carbonization‐Derived Carbons
Authors: Urakami Hiromitsu , Yilmaz Ali Gorkem , Osiceanu Petre , Yagci Yusuf , Vilela Filipe , Titirici Maria‐Magdalena
Published: May 2013

A simple and efficient polymer grafting onto hydrothermal carbonization (HTC)‐derived materials is described. The method pertains to the Diels–Alder cycloaddition reaction of furan moieties present on the surface of a HTC material with the maleimide groups stemming from a maleimide protected poly(ethylene glycol) (Me‐PEG‐MI) by a retro Diels‐Alder reaction. The precursor polymer, HTC material, and final product are characterized. Successful grafting is confirmed by elemental analysis, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and dispersion studies.

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Structural studies of the chemical constituents of Tithonia tagetiflora Desv. (Asteraceae)
Authors: Huynh Ngoc Vinh , Nguyen Thi Hoai Thu , Nguyen Kim Phi Phung , Hansen Poul Erik
Published: May 2013

Tithonia tagetiflora Desv. (Asteraceae) is a widespread plant in Vietnam, and the species of Tithonia are known as plants containing many biologically active compounds. However, T. tagetiflora's chemical composition remains mostly unknown. Therefore, we now report the structural elucidation of two new sesquiterpene lactones, 8‐angeloyloxy‐2,14‐epoxygermacra‐4,10(1),11(13)‐trien‐6,12‐olide (1) and 6‐angeloyloxy‐1‐hydroxy‐3,4‐epoxygermacra‐9,11(13)‐dien‐8,12‐olide (2), together with three known compounds, including two norisoprenoids, (6S,9S)‐vomifoliol or (6R,9R)‐vomifoliol (3) and (6S,9S)‐roseoside (4), and one glutinane type triterpene, epi‐glutinol (5), from the leaves of T. tagetiflora. Their structures are established by 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy, as well as ESI‐MS analysis and comparison with literature data. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Performance analysis of a 7‐kW crystalline silicon generator after 17 years of operation in Madrid
Authors: Lorenzo Eduardo , Zilles Roberto , Moretón Rodrigo , Gómez Trinidad , Martínez de Olcoz Ainhoa
Published: May 2013

The degradation observed on a 7‐kWp Si‐x photovoltaic array after 17 years of exposure on the roof of the Solar Energy Institute of the Polytechnic University of Madrid is presented. The mean peak power degradation has been 9% over this time, or an equivalent to 0.53% per year, whereas peak power standard deviation has remained constant. The main visual defects are backsheet delamination at the polyester/polyvinyl fluoride outer interface and cracks in the terminal boxes and at the joint between the frame and the laminate. Insulation resistance complies well with the requirements of the International Electrotechnical Commission 61215 tests. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and self‐assembling of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐block‐poly(L‐lactide)‐block‐poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) triblock copolymers prepared by combination of ring‐opening polymerization and atom transfer radical polymerization
Authors: Hu Yanfei , Darcos Vincent , Monge Sophie , Li Suming
Published: May 2013

Novel thermo‐responsive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)‐block‐poly(l‐lactide)‐block‐poly(N‐isopropylacylamide) (PNIPAAm‐b‐PLLA‐b‐PNIPAAm) triblock copolymers were successfully prepared by atom transfer radical polymerization of NIPAAm with Br‐PLLA‐Br macroinitiator, using a CuCl/tris(2‐dimethylaminoethyl) amine (Me6TREN) complex as catalyst at 25 °C in a N,N‐dimethylformamide/water mixture. The molecular weight of the copolymers ranges from 18,000 to 38,000 g mol−1, and the dispersity from 1.10 to 1.28. Micelles are formed by self‐assembly of copolymers in aqueous medium at room temperature, as evidenced by 1H NMR, dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The critical micelle concentration determined by fluorescence spectroscopy ranges from 0.0077 to 0.016 mg mL−1. 1H NMR analysis in selective solvents confirmed the core‐shell structure of micelles. The copolymers exhibit a lower critical solution temperature (LCST) between 32.1 and 32.8 °C. The micelles are spherical in shape with a mean diameter between 31.4 and 83.3 nm, as determined by TEM and DLS. When the temperature is raised above the LCST, micelle size increases at high copolymer concentrations due to aggregation. In contrast, at low copolymer concentrations, decrease of micelle size is observed due to collapse of PNIPAAm chains. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2013, 51, 3274–3283
Use of polystyrene brushes to investigate the role of interface between substrates and thin homogeneous films
Authors: Dinelli Franco , Sgrilli Tommaso , Ricci Andrea , Baschieri Paolo , Pingue Pasqualantonio , Puttaswamy Manjunath , Kingshott Peter
Published: May 2013

The viscoelastic properties of thin polystyrene (PS) films depend on confinement, as it can modify the molecular dynamics affecting the glass transition. In the recent past, the authors have investigated the region next to the free interface by means of an atomic force microscope suitably modified to monitor the indentation of a tip into a film during a given lapse of time while applying a constant load. Herein, to explore the interface with the substrate, the authors report on experiments in which PS brushes grafted to native silicon oxide were used. It was found that the film wettability on brushes and H‐terminated silicon can be highly improved when compared with native silicon oxide. In addition, the glass transition temperature of thin films increases up to the bulk value in the case of film/brush combinations with high molecular weight or films with high molecular weight on H‐terminated silicon. Data are discussed according to hypotheses such as residual solvent presence, interface free volume, and molecular mechanical coupling. These observations can be of great interest for nanotechnological applications, especially in those instances where one needs to tailor the temperature dependence of viscoelastic properties of thin films. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2013, 51, 1149–1156
High levels of biological activity of Cry1Ac protein expressed on MON 87701 × MON 89788 soybean against Heliothis virescens (Lepidoptera:Noctuidae)
Authors: Bernardi Oderlei , Dourado Patrick M , Carvalho Renato A , Martinelli Samuel , Berger Geraldo U , Head Graham P , Omoto Celso
Published: May 2013

Background

Genetically modified MON 87701 × MON 89788 soybean (Glycine max) that expresses the Cry1Ac and EPSP‐synthase proteins is a new Integrated Pest Management (IPM) tool for controlling Heliothis virescens in Brazil. To Support Insect Resistance Management (IRM) programs and understand the value of this event for IPM, we conducted laboratory and field studies to assess the biological activity of Cry1Ac protein expressed on Bt soybean against this insect pest.

Results

Heliothis virescens was highly susceptible to purified Cry1Ac protein [LC50 (FL 95%) = 0.026 (0.021–0.033) µg Cry1Ac mL–1 diet]. In bioassays with freeze‐dried MON 87701 × MON 89788 soybean tissue diluted 25 times in an artificial diet, there was 100% mortality of H. virescens. In bioassays with leaf disc, young trifoliate, flower buds, pods and high artificial infestation under greenhouse condition, MON 87701 × MON 89788 soybean showed a high level of control against H. virescens. Moreover, larvae from first through fifth instar were highly susceptible to MON 87701 × MON 89788 soybean.

Conclusions

The MON 87701 × MON 89788 soybean provides an effective alternative in controlling Heliothis virescens and complies with the concept of high‐dose for IRM programs. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Wuhan Atmosphere Radio Exploration (WARE) radar: System design and online winds measurements
Authors: Zhengyu Zhao , Chen Zhou , Haiyin Qing , Guobin Yang , Yuannong Zhang , Gang Chen , Yaogai Hu
Published: May 2013

The basic configuration of the Wuhan MST (mesosphere‐stratosphere‐troposphere) radar, which was designed and constructed by the School of Electronic Information, Wuhan University, is preliminarily described in this paper. The Wuhan MST radar operates at very high frequency (VHF) band (53.8 MHz) by observing the real‐time characteristics of turbulence and the wind field vector in the height range of 3.5–90 km (not including 25–60 km) with high temporal and height resolutions. This all–solid‐state, all‐coherent pulse Doppler radar is China's first independent development of an MST radar focusing on atmospheric observation. The subsystems of the Wuhan MST radar include an antenna system, a feeder line system, all–solid‐state radar transmitters, digital receivers, a beam control system, a signal processing system, a data processing system, a product generation system, and a user terminal. Advanced radar technologies are used, including highly reliable all–solid‐state transmitters, low‐noise large dynamic range digital receivers, an active phased array, high‐speed digital signal processing, and real‐time graphic terminals. This paper describes the design and implementation of the radar. Preliminary online wind measurements and results of the comparison to simultaneous observations by a GPS rawinsonde are presented as well.
Threshold visual secret sharing based on Boolean operations
Authors: Kumar Sachin , Sharma Rajendra K.
Published: May 2013

We design a new (k,n)‐threshold visual secret sharing scheme on the basis of Boolean operations. We propose two different algorithms to encrypt a secret image into n meaningless shares such that no secret information can be obtained by having any k − 1 or fewer shares. However, the secret image can be reconstructed easily by XOR of any k (≤n) or more shares. Both the algorithms have used simple Boolean operations such as OR and XOR. The proposed scheme broadens the potential applicability of Boolean operation‐based visual secret sharing by generating the shares of size same as that of the original secret image. Formal proofs, security analysis, and the experimental results are given to demonstrate the correctness and feasibility of the proposed scheme. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Improved cancelable fingerprint templates using minutiae‐based functional transform
Authors: Moon Daesung , Yoo Jang‐Hee , Lee Mun‐Kyu
Published: May 2013

Since Ratha et al. introduced the functional transform for cancelable fingerprint templates, a few simulation attacks to this method have been proposed. The attacks are based on the fact that the transform depends only on the predefined parameters. That is, the attacker may fully simulate the transform and partially invert it if the parameters are available. Although an original template is transformed using different parameters for different systems, even the compromise of only one of these systems may reveal the original template, which may be a serious potential threat from a practical viewpoint. In this paper, we propose an improved functional transform, whose parameters are decided by the original template, as well as predefined user‐specific keys. Because the information on the original template will not be available to the attacker even when a system is compromised, the proposed method significantly improves the security of the original template by preventing the attacker from reconstructing the transform. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Concise Review: Two negative feedback loops place mesenchymal stem/stromal cells at the center of early regulators of inflammation
Authors: Prockop Darwin J.
Published: May 2013

Recent data demonstrated that MSCs can be activated by proinflammatory signals to introduce two negative feedback loops into the generic pathway of inflammation. In one loop, the activated MSCs secrete PGE2 that drives resident macrophages with an M1 proinflammatory phenotype toward an M2 anti-inflammatory phenotype. In the second loop, the activated MSCs secrete TSG-6 that interacts with CD44 on resident macrophages to decrease TLR2/NFκ-B signaling and thereby decrease the secretion of proinflammatory mediators of inflammation. The PGE2 and TSG-6 negative feedback loops allow MSCs to serve as regulators of the very early phases of inflammation. These and many related observations suggest that the MSC-like cells found in most tissues may be part of the pantheon of cells that protect us from foreign invaders, tissue injury, and aging.
Performance‐based evaluation and strengthening of tall buildings in the Los Angeles region by using Bayesian structural reliability
Authors: Hart Gary C. , Conte Joel P. , Park Kidong , Ellingwood Bruce R. , Wong Kevin K. F.
Published: May 2013

This paper presents the motivation and the mathematics required for the introduction of Bayesian structural reliability theory into the process of evaluating and strengthening any tall building located in the Los Angeles region. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gene cloning and enzymatic characterization of an endoprotease Endo-Pro-Aspergillus niger
Authors: Kang Chao , Yu Xiao-Wei , Xu Yan
Published: May 2013

A novel endoprotease Endo-Pro-Aspergillus niger (endoprotease EPR) was first successfully expressed at high level in the methylotrophic yeast Pichia pastoris and the purification procedure was established. The endoprotease EPR is 95 % identity with proline specific endopeptidase from A. niger CBS513.88 (EMBL; AX458699), while sharing low identity with those from other microorganisms. The purified endoprotease EPR was a monomer of 60 kDa. Furthermore, the peptide mass fingerprinting (PMF) analysis confirmed that the purified protein was an endoprotease Endo-Pro-Aspergillus niger. A three-dimensional model revealed that the active site of the enzyme was located in Ser(179)-Asp(458)-His(491), based on template 3n2zB with sequence identity of 17.6 %. The optimum pH and temperature of the endoprotease EPR were pH 4–5 and 35 °C, and the stabilities were pH 3–7 and 15–60 °C, respectively. Furthermore, the endoprotease EPR had the ability to digest peptides with the C-terminal of proline as well as alanine, and was also capable of hydrolyzing larger peptides. The properties of the endoprotease EPR made it a highly promising candidate for future application in the field of brewing and food process.
“There's a Whole Different Way of Working with Adolescents”: Interviews with Australian Genetic Counselors About their Experiences with Adolescent Clients
Authors: Tse Cheryl , Sahhar Margaret , Wallace Jane , Duncan Rony E.
Published: May 2013

Adolescence is a developmental period marked by unique physical, psychological and social changes. Guidelines about working with adolescents are available to health professionals in other fields, yet few resources are tailored specifically to genetic counselors. The current qualitative study explored the experiences of genetic counselors who work with adolescent clients to determine whether challenges exist and if further training and support are needed. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 11 genetic counselors from Australia. Interview transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis from which 7 key themes emerged: 1) Adolescents: A distinct client group? 2) Characteristics of adolescents; 3) Strategies for working with adolescents; 4) Confidentiality; 5) Parental involvement and presence in sessions; 6) Benefits of working with adolescents; and 7) The effectiveness of past training and education. The findings hold important implications for clinical practice and may inform future training programs and guidelines for genetic counselors internationally.
Relationship between the timing of vessel formation and leaf phenology in ten ring‐porous and diffuse‐porous deciduous tree species
Authors: Takahashi Sayaka , Okada Naoki , Nobuchi Tadashi
Published: May 2013

The goal of this study is to clarify how different aspects of plant function are coordinated developmentally for species of ring‐porous versus diffuse‐porous deciduous trees, comparing the timing of leaf phenology and vessel formation in twigs and stems from an ecophysiological viewpoint. Cylindrical stem cores and twigs were collected at intervals from early spring through summer from five ring‐porous and five diffuse‐porous species in a cool temperate forest, and leaf and vessel formation were observed simultaneously. We found that the first‐formed vessels of the year were lignified in twigs around the time of leaf appearance and at or before full leaf expansion of each tree in both groups of species with flush‐leaves. Vessels in stems were lignified 2 weeks before to 4 weeks after leaf appearance and before or around full leaf expansion of the tree in ring‐porous species. This was significantly earlier than in diffuse‐porous species, in which stem vessel lignification was 2–8 weeks after leaf appearance and at or after full leaf expansion of the tree. The timing of vessel formation in twigs compared to stems was significantly earlier in ring‐porous species than in diffuse‐porous species. Lignification of vessels in stems occurred within 2 weeks of lignification in the twigs of ring‐porous species and 2–8 weeks after lignification in twigs of diffuse‐porous species. These results indicate the order and time‐lag of leaf and vessel formation. Ring‐porous species showed intensive leaf/vessel production, whereas diffuse‐porous species showed less intensive leaf/vessel production.
Living Arrangements and the Elderly: An Analysis of Old-Age Mortality by Household Structure in Casalguidi, 1819–1859
Authors: Manfredini Matteo , Breschi Marco
Published: May 2013

The elevated levels of protection, assistance, and care enjoyed by the elderly living in complex households has long been a key assumption of many family system theories. However, although this hypothesis has been demonstrated for contemporary contexts, quantitative evidence for past populations is particularly scarce, if not nonexistent. This article investigates the relationship between old-age mortality and living arrangements in a mid–nineteenth century Tuscan population, where the joint family system of sharecroppers coexisted alongside the nuclear system of day laborers. Our findings demonstrate that within complex households, the complexity of relationships, gender inequalities, and possible competition for care and resources among the most vulnerable household members—namely, the elderly and the young—weakens the assumption that the elderly benefitted from lower rates of old-age mortality.
The Relationship between Homebound Status and Occupational Competence, and Its Effects on Health-related Quality of Life
Authors: Ishibashi Yu , Yamada Takashi , Kobayashi Norikazu , Hashimoto Mime , Forsyth Kirsty
Published: May 2013

Objective/Background

This study aims to develop a fuller understanding of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) outcomes for older adults who were homebound (either occupationally competent or not occupationally competent) and not homebound (either occupationally competent or not occupationally competent).

Methods

All the study participants were ≥65 years of age (N = 5,135) and lived in the city of Arakawa (Tokyo, Japan). Questionnaires were inclusive of the Short Form-8 for HRQOL and Occupational Self-Assessment (version 2.1), and were sent to participants by mail. The response rate was 38.7% (1,991/5,135) and the valid rate response was 66.1% (1,317/1,991). The participants were divided into four groups, namely, group A (not homebound/high occupational competence), group B (not homebound/low occupational competence), group C (homebound/high occupational competence), and group D (homebound/low occupational competence). This study analyzed the HRQOL using analysis of variance.

Results

Group A (not homebound/high occupational competence) had the highest HRQOL, whereas group D (homebound/low occupational competence) had the lowest HRQOL among the four groups. However, group C (homebound/high occupational competence) had higher HRQOL than group B (not homebound/low occupational competence).

Conclusion

Occupational competence is not dependent on homebound status. Having high occupational competence supports higher HRQOL than not being homebound.
On a local to global principle in étale K-groups of curves
Authors: Banaszak Grzegorz , Krasoń Piotr
Published: May 2013

LetXbe a smooth, proper and geometrically irreducible curveXdefined over a number fieldFand letχbe a regular and proper model ofXoverOF,Sl. In this paper we address the problem of detecting the linear dependence over ℤlof elements in the étaleK-theory ofχ. To be more specific, letP∊Ket2n(χ)and let ⋀̂ ⊂Ket2n(χ)be a ℤl-submodule. Letrυ:Ket2n(χ)→Ket2n(χυ)be the reduction map for υ ∉Sl. We prove, under some conditions onX, that ifrυ($\(P)_circumflex\$) ∈rυ(⋀̂) for almost all υ of$\mathematical script capital(O) F,Sl\$then$\(P)_circumflex\$∈ ⋀̂ +Ket2n(χ)tor.
No association between the intake of marinen-3 PUFA during the second trimester of pregnancy and factors associated with cardiometabolic risk in the 20-year-old offspring
Authors: Rytter Dorte , Bech Bodil H. , Halldorsson Thorhallur , Christensen Jeppe H. , Schmidt Erik B. , Danielsen Inge , Henriksen Tine B. , Olsen Sjurdur F.
Published: May 2013

The intake of marinen-3 PUFA has been shown to decrease the risk of CVD in a number of studies. Since the development of CVD is often a lifelong process, marinen-3 PUFA intake early in life may also affect the development of later CVD. The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between maternal intake of marinen-3 PUFA during the second trimester of pregnancy and factors associated with cardiometabolic risk in the 20-year-old offspring. The study was based on the follow-up of the offspring of a Danish pregnancy cohort who participated in a study conducted from 1988 to 1989. A total of 965 pregnant women were originally included in the cohort and detailed information about the intake of marinen-3 PUFA during the second trimester was collected. In 2008–9, the offspring were invited to participate in a clinical examination including anthropometric, blood pressure (BP) and short-term heart rate variability measurements. Also, a fasting venous blood sample was drawn from them. Multiple linear regression modelling, using the lowest quintile of marinen-3 PUFA intake as the reference, was used to estimate the association with all outcomes. A total of 443 offspring participated in the clinical examination. No association between the intake of marinen-3 PUFA during the second trimester of pregnancy and offspring adiposity, glucose metabolism, BP or lipid profile was found. In conclusion, no association between the intake of marinen-3 PUFA during the second trimester of pregnancy and the factors associated with cardiometabolic risk in the 20-year-old offspring could be detected.
Do positive or negative stressful events predict the development of new brain lesions in people with multiple sclerosis?
Authors: Burns M. N. , Nawacki E. , Kwasny M. J. , Pelletier D. , Mohr D. C.
Published: May 2013

Background

Stressful life events have long been suspected to contribute to multiple sclerosis (MS) disease activity. The few studies examining the relationship between stressful events and neuroimaging markers have been small and inconsistent. This study examined whether different types of stressful events and perceived stress could predict the development of brain lesions.

Method

This was a secondary analysis of 121 patients with MS followed for 48 weeks during a randomized controlled trial comparing stress management therapy for MS (SMT-MS) to a waitlist control (WLC). Patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans every 8 weeks. Every month, patients completed an interview measure assessing stressful life events and self-report measures of perceived stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms, which were used to predict the presence of gadolinium-enhancing (Gd+) and T2lesions on MRI scans 29–62 days later. Participants classified stressful events as positive or negative. Negative events were considered ‘major’ if they involved physical threat or threat to the patient's family structure, and ‘moderate’ otherwise.

Results

Positive stressful events predicted decreased risk for subsequent Gd+ lesions in the control group [odds ratio (OR) 0.53 for each additional positive stressful event, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.30–0.91] and less risk for new or enlarging T2lesions regardless of group assignment (OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.55–0.99). Across groups, major negative stressful events predicted Gd+ lesions (OR 1.77, 95% CI 1.18–2.64) and new or enlarging T2lesions (OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.11–2.23) whereas moderate negative stressful events, perceived stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms did not.

Conclusions

Major negative stressful events predict increased risk for Gd+ and T2lesions whereas positive stressful events predict decreased risk.
The distribution of short character sums
Authors: LAMZOURI YOUNESS
Published: May 2013

Let χ be a non-real Dirichlet character modulo a primeq. In this paper we prove that the distribution of the short character sumSχ,H(x)= ∑x<n≤x+Hχ(n), asxruns over the positive integers belowq, converges to a two-dimensional Gaussian distribution on the complex plane, provided that logH=o(logq) andH→ ∞ asq→ ∞. Furthermore, we use an idea of Selberg to establish an upper bound on the rate of convergence.
Toward the Source of the Sambatyon: Shabbat Discourse and the Origins of the Sabbatical River Legend
Authors: Kokin Daniel Stein
Published: May 2013

Writing back in 1888, Adolf Neubauer, the father of modern scholarship on the Lost Tribes, warned that “It would be lost time . . . to trouble ourselves about the identification of this stream.” Neubauer was referring, of course, to the Sambatyon River, the mythical waterway that, according to common understanding, rests each Sabbath and separates missing Jews—the ten lost tribes or others—from their brethren, and indeed from the known world. Six days each week, according to the legend, the river runs so powerfully that neither these tribes nor their seekers can cross it; on the Sabbath, either natural wonders or halakhic restrictions prevent them from doing so as well. Thus, whether showcasing the sheer power and solemnity of the seventh day or the piety of the isolated (or general) community, the Sambatyon legend certifies that only in the messianic age will this lost population be restored to the rest of the Jewish people.