bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of a new mist‐chamber bioreactor for biotechnological applications
Authors: Tscheschke Bernd , Dreimann Janis , von der Ruhr Jürgen W. , Schmidt Timo , Stahl Frank , Just Lothar , Scheper Thomas
Published: December 2014

In this article we describe the development, the characterization and the evaluation of a novel bioreactor type for the cultivation of different pro‐ and eukaryotic cell‐systems: the mist‐chamber bioreactor. This innovative bioreactor meets the demand of cultivation systems for shear stress sensitive cells with high requirements for gas supply. Within the mist‐chamber bioreactor the cells are cultivated inside an aerosol of vaporized medium generated by ultrasonic vaporization. In contrast to many established bioreactor systems the mist‐chamber bioreactor offers an environment with an excellent gas supply without any impeller or gas bubble induced shear stress. A mist‐chamber bioreactor prototype has been manufactured and characterized during this work. In the technical and chemical characterization we evaluated the vaporization process, resulting in a vaporization performance of 32 mL/h at working conditions. On this basis we calculated a biomass of 1.4 g (S. cerevisiae, qs = 3.45 × 10–3 mol/g/h) and 3.4 g (Aspergillus niger, qs = 1.33 × 10–3 mol/g/h) where the growth rate becomes limited by transport processes. Additionally, we determined a homogenous cultivation area to a height of 3 cm giving a total volume of 0.45 L for the cultivation. Medium components were examined according to their stability during vaporization with the result that all components are stable for at least 5 days. After the technical characterization we demonstrated the feasibility to cultivate S. cerevisiae and F. velupites in the mist‐chamber bioreactor. The results demonstrated that the mist‐chamber bioreactor is able to transport a sufficient amount of nutrients consistently to the cell samples and offers an excellent oxygen supply without any shear stress inducing aeration. Furthermore we successfully cultivated F. velupites in a solid state cultivation in a long term experiment. The data indicate that the new bioreactor concept can contribute to improve various fermentations and cell culture processes depending on the cultured cell types. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2015;112: 1155–1164. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
How does mild hypothermia affect monoclonal antibody glycosylation?
Authors: Sou Si Nga , Sellick Christopher , Lee Ken , Mason Alison , Kyriakopoulos Sarantos , Polizzi Karen M. , Kontoravdi Cleo
Published: December 2014

The application of mild hypothermic conditions to cell culture is a routine industrial practice used to improve recombinant protein production. However, a thorough understanding of the regulation of dynamic cellular processes at lower temperatures is necessary to enhance bioprocess design and optimization. In this study, we investigated the impact of mild hypothermia on protein glycosylation. Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells expressing a monoclonal antibody (mAb) were cultured at 36.5°C and with a temperature shift to 32°C during late exponential/early stationary phase. Experimental results showed higher cell viability with decreased metabolic rates. The specific antibody productivity increased by 25% at 32°C and was accompanied by a reduction in intracellular nucleotide sugar donor (NSD) concentrations and a decreased proportion of the more processed glycan structures on the mAb constant region. To better understand CHO cell metabolism at 32°C, flux balance analysis (FBA) was carried out and constrained with exometabolite data from stationary phase of cultures with or without a temperature shift. Estimated fluxomes suggested reduced fluxes of carbon species towards nucleotide and NSD synthesis and more energy was used for product formation. Expression of the glycosyltransferases that are responsible for N‐linked glycan branching and elongation were significantly lower at 32°C. As a result of mild hypothermia, mAb glycosylation was shown to be affected by both NSD availability and glycosyltransferase expression. The combined experimental/FBA approach generated insight as to how product glycosylation can be impacted by changes in culture temperature. Better feeding strategies can be developed based on the understanding of the metabolic flux distribution. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2015;112: 1165–1176. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Kinetic parameter estimation in N. europaea biofilms using a 2‐D reactive transport model
Authors: Lauchnor Ellen G. , Semprini Lewis , Wood Brian D.
Published: December 2014

Biofilms of the ammonia oxidizing bacterium Nitrosomonas europaea were cultivated to study microbial processes associated with ammonia oxidation in pure culture. We explored the hypothesis that the kinetic parameters of ammonia oxidation in N. europaea biofilms were in the range of those determined with batch suspended cells. Oxygen and pH microelectrodes were used to measure dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations and pH above and inside biofilms and reactive transport modeling was performed to simulate the measured DO and pH profiles. A two dimensional (2‐D) model was used to simulate advection parallel to the biofilm surface and diffusion through the overlying fluid while reaction and diffusion were simulated in the biofilm. Three experimental studies of microsensor measurements were performed with biofilms: i) NH3 concentrations near the Ksn value of 40 μM determined in suspended cell tests ii) Limited buffering capacity which resulted in a pH gradient within the biofilms and iii) NH3 concentrations well below the Ksn value. Very good fits to the DO concentration profiles both in the fluid above and in the biofilms were achieved using the 2‐D model. The modeling study revealed that the half‐saturation coefficient for NH3 in N. europaea biofilms was close to the value measured in suspended cells. However, the third study of biofilms with low availability of NH3 deviated from the model prediction. The model also predicted shifts in the DO profiles and the gradient in pH that resulted for the case of limited buffering capacity. The results illustrate the importance of incorporating both key transport and chemical processes in a biofilm reactive transport model. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2015;112: 1122–1131. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Molecular polygamy: The promiscuity of l‐phenylalanyl‐tRNA‐synthetase triggers misincorporation ofmeta‐ andortho‐tyrosine in monoclonal antibodies expressed by Chinese hamster ovary cells
Authors: Popp Oliver , Larraillet Vincent , Kettenberger Hubert , Gorr Ingo H. , Hilger Maximiliane , Lipsmeier Florian , Zeck Anne , Beaucamp Nicola
Published: December 2014

In‐depth analytical characterization of biotherapeutics originating from different production batches is mandatory to ensure product safety and consistent molecule efficacy. Previously, we have shown unintended incorporation of tyrosine (Tyr) and leucine/isoleucine (Leu/Ile) at phenylalanine (Phe) positions in a recombinant produced monoclonal antibody (mAb) using an orthogonal MASCOT/SIEVE based approach for mass spectrometry data analysis. The misincorporation could be avoided by sufficient supply of phenylalanine throughout the process. Several non‐annotated signals in the primarily chromatographic peptide separation step for apparently single Phe→Tyr sequence variants (SVs) suggest a role for isobar tyrosine isoforms.Meta‐andortho‐Tyr are spontaneously generated during aerobic fed‐batch production processes usingChinese hamster ovary(CHO) cell lines. Process inducedmeta‐ andortho‐Tyr but not proteinogenicpara‐Tyr are incorporated at Phe locations in Phe‐starved CHO cultures expressing a recombinant mAb. Furthermore,meta‐ andortho‐Tyr are preferably misincorporated over Leu. Structural modeling of the l‐phenylalanyl‐tRNA‐synthetase (PheRS) substrate activation site indicates a possible fit of non‐cognateortho‐Tyr andmeta‐Tyr substrates. Dose‐dependent misincorporations of Tyr isoforms support the hypothesis thatmeta‐ andortho‐Tyr are competing, alternative substrates for PheRS in CHO processes. Finally, easily accessibleat‐linesurrogate markers for Phe→Tyr SV formation in biotherapeutic production were defined by the calculation of critical ratios formeta‐Tyr/Phe andortho‐Tyr/Phe to support early prediction of SV probability, and finally, to allow for immediate process controlled Phe→Tyr SV prevention. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2015;112: 1187–1199. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Expanding what is known of the anatomy of the spinal accessory nerve
Authors: Restrepo Carlos E. , Tubbs R. Shane , Spinner Robert J.
Published: December 2014

The spinal accessory nerve (SAN) is classically considered a motor nerve innervating the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles. Its anatomical relevance derives from the high prevalence of lesions following head and neck surgeries. As expected, trapezius weakness and atrophy are the most common findings; however, it is also commonly accompanied by pain and other sensory deficits that have no clear explanation, suggesting other functions. We have recently seen two patients presenting with an unrecognized sign, that is, subclavicular/pectoral asymmetry secondary to the SAN lesion. Retrospectively, we reviewed other patients with similar findings in our case series and in the literature. We discuss the anatomical connections of the SAN with the superficial cervical plexus and propose an explanation for this finding. Of the 41 patients in our series, we identified this sign in all who had preoperative photographs. New insights on the anatomy and connections of the SAN may account for the diversity of symptoms and signs presented following an operative intervention as well as the variability of its severity. Clin. Anat. 28:467–471, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Maternal Borderline Personality Disorder and Risk of Child Maltreatment
Authors: Laulik Sarah , Allam Jayne , Browne Kevin
Published: December 2014

A community‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted to explore the relationship between parental personality disorder and child maltreatment. This article reports on the findings of a study focusing on a subsample of 46 maltreating mothers who had all been referred for psychological assessment in the context of care proceedings. Of the 46 mothers, 13 met the full diagnostic criteria for borderline personality disorder (BPD). Of the remaining 33 mothers, 18 presented with strong features of BPD but did not meet the full criteria and 18 presented with no significant features of BPD. Results indicated that maltreating mothers with diagnosed BPD were more likely than those with BPD features and those with no significant features to have engaged in the perpetration of physical and multiple (physical abuse and neglect) types of child maltreatment. No association was found between BPD and child neglect alone. Compared to the two other groups, mothers with BPD were identified as a particularly traumatised subgroup. The tentative conclusion that may be drawn from these findings is that maltreating mothers with BPD may represent a particularly high‐risk subgroup. The results are discussed with reference to existing empirical research. Implications for clinical practice and future research are then considered. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

‘46 maltreating mothers… referred for psychological assessment in the context of care proceedings’

‘Maltreating mothers with BPD may represent a particularly high‐risk subgroup’

Key Practitioner Messages

BPD is a risk factor for interpersonal violence.

Results of this study suggest that BPD may also be a risk factor for the perpetration of physical child abuse and multiple maltreatment (physical abuse and neglect) amongst mothers involved in care proceedings.

Maltreating mothers with BPD may represent a particularly high‐risk subgroup.
Help your unit remain calm, focused during high‐stress times
Authors: Gomez Cynthia
Published: December 2014

The field of campus safety requires the ability to remain calm and focused amid chaos, which can seem like the norm on any college campus — at least during key times of the year, such as fall semester move‐in day, weekends, and game days. But that kind of chaos is just business as usual. So too are wearing multiple hats and doing more with fewer resources. However, what happens when unexpected crises come your institution's way?
The Clear and Present Funding Crisis in Community Colleges
Authors: Phelan Daniel J.
Published: December 2014

This chapter describes the impact of major changes in community college funding on its open‐access mission, as well as on the work and responsibilities of college leaders as they attempt to balance the increasing demands made of their institutions while concomitantly grappling with diminished public fiscal support.
Budgeting Approaches in Community Colleges
Authors: Palmer James C.
Published: December 2014

Several budgeting approaches have been initiated as alternatives to the traditional, incremental process. These include formula budgeting; zero‐base budgeting; planning, programming, and budgeting systems; and responsibility center budgeting. Each is premised on assumptions about how organizations might best make resource allocation decisions. Though the incremental approach remains dominant, experience with the alternative approaches suggests key questions that can guide the work of community college budget developers.
Program Costs and Student Completion
Authors: Manning Terri M. , Crosta Peter M.
Published: December 2014

Community colleges are under pressure to increase completion rates, prepare students for the workplace, and contain costs. Colleges need to know the financial implications of what are often perceived as routine decisions: course scheduling, program offerings, and the provision of support services. This chapter presents a methodology for estimating the cost of instructional programs for completers who follow the program's curriculum (program cost) and for students who follow a different trajectory, often not even completing a program (pathway cost). Together these measures provide important insights to guide decision makers.
The Implications of State Fiscal Policies for Community Colleges
Authors: Dowd Alicia C. , Shieh Linda Taing
Published: December 2014

A variety of policies and practices, including those developed by local boards and administrations, as well as those mandated by state and federal governments, affect budgets and finances at community colleges. Examples include tuition policies, fee structures, performance‐based funding, and personnel policies. This chapter explores some of the reasons for policy changes and provides a framework for incorporating effectiveness into the community college mission, thereby avoiding unintended negative consequences for students or the fiscal viability of the institution.
Philanthropy and Private Foundations: Expanding Revenue Sources
Authors: Drummer Carlee , Marshburn Roxann
Published: December 2014

As community colleges seek new revenue streams, philanthropic organizations, including college foundations and private funders, have already begun to influence both revenues and college programming. This chapter discusses the current role of philanthropy, especially private foundations such as the Lumina Foundation for Education and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, to provide revenue and direction to community colleges. The chapter also explores untapped potentials and the role of local college foundations and alumni in contributing resources.
Entrepreneurship: The College as a Business Enterprise
Authors: Cejda Brent D. , Jolley Michael R.
Published: December 2014

This chapter explores the concept of entrepreneurial waves, with a special focus on the “third wave” of entrepreneurial ventures: alternative means of funding programs and services in light of continued reductions in public financial support and as an approach to building strong and sustainable relationships with external constituencies. The chapter also explores the leadership characteristics necessary to create and sustain a culture of entrepreneurship.
Assessing Financial Health in Community Colleges
Authors: Bers Trudy H. , Head Ronald B.
Published: December 2014

In this age of educational accountability, there is an increasing emphasis on assessment and institutional effectiveness, not only in the academic arena but also in other aspects of community college operation, such as fiscal health and stability, revenue generation, resource allocation, facilities, workforce development, and community enrichment services. This chapter describes the challenge of effectively assessing community college financial services and budgets as well as internal and external standards and benchmarks developed to measure institutional fiscal health and the allocation of resources (e.g., reserve fund amounts, deferred maintenance, and bond ratings).
Evolving Practices and Emerging Innovations in Community College Finance
Authors: Mullin Christopher M.
Published: December 2014

Besides the shift in community college funding from the state to the student, a number of other innovations and trends have emerged with respect to community college finances. This chapter explores some of these developments, including performance‐based funding, changes in student and institutional eligibility for financial aid, changes in local funding, generating revenue from institutional data, and the potential financial impact of massive open online courses (MOOCs). Clearly, the financial landscape of community colleges is changing dramatically, calling for more skillful financial managers and entrepreneurs.
Concluding Thoughts
Authors: Palmer James C.
Published: December 2014

Community college leaders face several fundamental challenges as they work on sustaining the fiscal viability of their institutions. These include the need to anticipate the unintended consequences of performance‐based funding, diversify revenue streams in ways that reduce fiscal dependence on tuition and state appropriations, control costs, and rethink the comprehensive, all‐things‐for‐all‐people mission.
The Challenge of Linear (E)‐Enones in the Rh‐Catalyzed, Asymmetric 1,4‐Addition Reaction of Phenylboronic Acid: A DFT Computational Analysis
Authors: Qin Hua‐Li , Chen Xiao‐Qing , Shang Zhen‐Peng , Kantchev Eric Assen B.
Published: December 2014

Why are linear (E)‐enones such challenging substrates in the Rh‐catalyzed asymmetric arylation with boronic acids, which is one of the most important asymmetric catalysis methods? DFT computations show that these substrates adopt a specific conformation in which the largest substituent is antiperiplanar to RhI π‐complexed with the CC bond within the enantioselectivity‐determining carborhodation transition state. Additionally, for such structures, there is a strong, but not exclusive, preference for s‐cis enone conformation. This folding minimizes steric interactions between the substrate and the ligand, and hence reduces the enantioselectivity. This idea is further confirmed by investigating three computation‐only substrate “probes”, one of which is capable of double asymmetric induction, and a recent computationally designed 1,5‐diene ligand. On average, excellent agreement between predicted and experimental enantioselectivity was attained by a three‐pronged approach: 1) thorough conformational search within ligand and substrate subunits to locate the most preferred carborhodation transition state; 2) including dispersion interaction and long‐range corrections by SMD/ωB97xD/DGDZVP level of theory; and 3) full substrate and ligand modeling. Based on the results, a theory‐enhanced enantioselectivity model that is applicable to both chiral diene and diphosphane ligands is proposed.
Insight into the Mechanism of Hydrogenation of Amino Acids to Amino Alcohols Catalyzed by a Heterogeneous MoOx‐Modified Rh Catalyst
Authors: Tamura Masazumi , Tamura Riku , Takeda Yasuyuki , Nakagawa Yoshinao , Tomishige Keiichi
Published: December 2014

Hydrogenation of amino acids to amino alcohols is a promising utilization of natural amino acids. We found that MoOx‐modified Rh/SiO2 (Rh–MoOx/SiO2) is an efficient heterogeneous catalyst for the reaction at low temperature (323 K) and the addition of a small amount of MoOx drastically increases the activity and selectivity. Here, we report the catalytic potential of Rh–MoOx/SiO2 and the results of kinetic and spectroscopic studies to elucidate the reaction mechanism of Rh–MoOx/SiO2 catalyzed hydrogenation of amino acids to amino alcohols. Rh–MoOx/SiO2 is superior to previously reported catalysts in terms of activity and substrate scope. This reaction proceeds by direct formation of an aldehyde intermediate from the carboxylic acid moiety, which is different from the reported reaction mechanism. This mechanism can be attributed to the reactive hydride species and substrate adsorption caused by MoOx modification of Rh metal, which results in high activity, selectivity, and enantioselectivity.
Cytologic diagnostic approach to poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma: A single‐institution study
Authors: Kane Shubhada V. , Sharma Tanvi Paliwal
Published: December 2014

BACKGROUND

Fine‐needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is a well‐established technique for the preoperative evaluation of thyroid nodules because it is minimally invasive, cost‐effective, quick, efficient, and safe. Various articles have discussed differences in the cytomorphology of different types of thyroid cancer. However, review articles on the cytologic diagnosis of poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma (PDTC) are scarce as PDTC are rare tumors. Although the histologic diagnostic criteria are well standardized, the cytologic diagnostic criteria are not yet standardized. This prompted us to study the cytomorphological features of PDTC and assess features of distinction from differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) and medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of thyroid FNAC smears from 44 PDTC cases retrieved from the database of a single tertiary cancer institute (2009‐2013). Papanicolaou and Giemsa smears were evaluated for 21 cytomorphologic features. Immunocytochemistry was available for 6 cases only.

RESULTS

The frequencies of cytomorphologic features in the 44 cases were as follows: hypercellularity, 84.1%; insular pattern, 79.5%; small cell size, 93.2%; high nuclear‐cytoplasmic ratio, 93.2%; granular chromatin pattern, 95.45%; nuclear overlapping, 88.64%; mild pleomorphism, 86.36%; grooves/inclusions, 22.7%; binucleation/multinucleation, 9.1%; abrupt nucleomegaly, 34.1%; apoptosis, 45%; mitosis, 25%; necrosis, 34.1%; and colloid, 22.7%.

CONCLUSION

A high index of suspicion is necessary for an upfront diagnosis of PDTC on FNAC. Although PDTC, DTC, and MTC have overlapping features, there are distinguishing features also. The cytologic diagnostic criteria for PDTC need to be standardized by collaborative efforts among tertiary cancer centers. A prompt diagnosis is the key feature for planning multimodality treatment. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2015;123:82–91. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Cytomorphological features of ALK‐positive lung adenocarcinomas: Psammoma bodies and signet ring cells
Authors: Pareja Fresia , Crapanzano John P. , Mansukhani Mahesh M. , Bulman William A. , Saqi Anjali
Published: December 2014

BACKGROUND

Correlation between histology and genotype has been described in lung adenocarcinomas. For example, studies have demonstrated that adenocarcinomas with an anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene rearrangement may have mucinous features. The objective of the current study was to determine whether a similar association can be identified in cytological specimens.

METHODS

A retrospective search for ALK‐rearranged cytopathology (CP) and surgical pathology (SP) lung carcinomas was conducted. Additional ALK‐negative (‐) lung adenocarcinomas served as controls. For CP and SP cases, the clinical data (i.e., age, sex, and smoking history), architecture, nuclear features, presence of mucin‐containing cells (including signet ring cells), and any additional salient characteristics were evaluated.

RESULTS

The search yielded 20 ALK‐positive (+) adenocarcinomas. Compared with patients with ALK(‐) lung adenocarcinomas (33 patients; 12 with epidermal growth factor receptor [EGFR]‐mutation, 11 with Kristen rat sarcoma [KRAS]‐mutation, and 10 wild‐type adenocarcinomas), patients with ALK(+) adenocarcinoma presented at a younger age; and there was no correlation noted with sex or smoking status. The most common histological pattern in SP was papillary/micropapillary. Mucinous features were associated with ALK rearrangement in SP specimens. Signet ring cells and psammoma bodies were evident in and significantly associated with ALK(+) SP and CP specimens. However, psammoma bodies were observed in rare adenocarcinomas with an EGFR mutation. Both the ALK(+) and ALK(−) groups had mostly high nuclear grade.

CONCLUSIONS

Salient features, including signet ring cells and psammoma bodies, were found to be significantly associated with ALK(+) lung adenocarcinomas and are identifiable on CP specimens. Recognizing these may be especially helpful in the molecular triage of scant CP samples. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2014. © 2014 American Cancer Society. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2015;123:162–170. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Combination of p16INK4a/Ki67 immunocytology and hpv polymerase chain reaction for the noninvasive analysis of HPV involvement in head and neck cancer
Authors: Linxweiler Maximilian , Bochen Florian , Wemmert Silke , Lerner Cornelia , Hasenfus Andrea , Bohle Rainer Maria , Al‐Kadah Basel , Takacs Zoltan Ferenc , Smola Sigrun , Schick Bernhard
Published: December 2014

BACKGROUND

High‐risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection has been identified as a relevant risk for the development of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs). As HPV status has also gained a role as a prognostic and predictive biomarker for this entity, there is a growing demand for valid HPV testing in HNSCC patients

METHODS

Liquid‐based cytological smears from 45 HNSCC and 20 control patients were collected and used for simultaneous immunocytochemical p16INK4a/Ki67 staining using a CINtec PLUS kit after the presence of tumor cells was verified in a Papanicolaou‐stained slide. The same cytological suspension was used for the detection of HPV DNA by specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

RESULTS

Tumor cells were detected in the swab material of 44 HNSCC patients corresponding to a sensitivity of 98% (44 of 45). PCR analysis revealed the presence of HPV DNA in the cytological suspension of 13 patients (13 of 65, 20%) with simultaneous p16INK4a/Ki67 expression by the tumor cells in 11 of these HPV DNA–positive samples (11 of 13, 85%) — a staining pattern that is strongly associated with a carcinogenic HPV infection.

CONCLUSIONS

A simultaneous immunocytochemical detection of p16INK4aand Ki67 can reliably be performed on liquid‐based cytological smears from HNSCC patients using a CINtec PLUS kit. In addition, the same cytological material can be used for the detection of HPV DNA by specific PCR. The combined results of both techniques enable better discrimination between latent and carcinogenic HPV infections as well as HPV‐negative cases and thus can provide information on the prognosis of HNSCC patients and facilitate therapeutic decisions.Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol)2015;123:219–229.©2014 American Cancer Society.
The AdaBoost Flow
Authors: Lykov Alexandr , Muzychka Stepan , Vaninsky Kirill
Published: December 2014

We introduce a dynamical system that we call the AdaBoost flow. The flow is defined by a system of ODEs with control. We show that three algorithms of the AdaBoost family, (i) the AdaBoost algorithm of Schapire and Freund, (ii) the arc‐gv algorithm of Breiman, and (iii) the confidence rated prediction of Schapire and Singer, can be embedded in the AdaBoost flow.

The nontrivial part of the AdaBoost flow equations coincides with the equations of dynamics of the nonperiodic Toda system written in terms of spectral variables. We provide a novel invariant geometrical description of the AdaBoost algorithm as a gradient flow on a foliation defined by level sets of the potential function.

We propose a new approach for constructing boosting algorithms as a continuous‐time gradient flow on measures defined by various metrics and potential functions. Finally, we explain the similarity of the AdaBoost algorithm with the Perelman's construction for the Ricci flow.© 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Using Cavity Microelectrodes for Electrochemical Noise Studies of Oxygen‐Evolving Catalysts
Authors: Rincón Rosalba A. , Battistel Alberto , Ventosa Edgar , Chen Xingxing , Nebel Michaela , Schuhmann Wolfgang
Published: December 2014

Cavity microelectrodes were used as a binder‐free platform to evaluate oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrocatalysts with respect to gas bubble formation and departure. Electrochemical noise measurements were performed by using RuO2 as a benchmark catalyst and the perovskite La0.58Sr0.4Fe0.8Co0.2O3 as a non‐noble metal OER catalyst with lower intrinsic conductivity. Changes in the current during the OER originate from variations in electrolyte resistance during the formation of the gas phase and partial coverage of the active area. Fluctuations observed in current and conductance transients were used to establish the contribution from the ohmic overpotential and to determine the characteristic frequency of oxygen evolution. The proposed quantitative determination of gas bubble growth and departure opens up the route for a rational interface design by considering gas bubble growth and departure as a main contributing factor to the overall electrocatalytic activity at high current densities.
Variation in the composition and oxidative stability of commercial rapeseed oils during their shelf life
Authors: Roszkowska Beata , Tańska Małgorzata , Czaplicki Sylwester , Konopka Iwona
Published: December 2014

This study was conducted to evaluate the variation in chemical composition and oxidative stability of 21 different commercial rapeseed oils. Their composition was estimated immediately after opening the packaging and for the same oils at the end of their induction period. The oxidation of oils was conducted at 110°C in an oven test, while the induction time was determined in a Rancimat test at the same temperature. It was found that the initial ratio of n‐6 to n‐3 fatty acids was close to 2.2 to 1. These oils differed mainly in minor acids, such as C16:0 and C20:1. At the end of their shelf life, a reduction of C18:2 and C18:3 acids shares was found, which was accompanied by a slight increase of n‐6 to n‐3 ratio. The most variable oil‐soluble compounds of oils were carotenoids, chlorophylls, and phenolics, while the tocopherols were the most stable. Induction time was the most positively correlated with the oil‐soluble phenolics (r = 0.76 for all samples) and chlorophylls (r = 0.77 for refined oils), while carotenoids generally acted as pro‐oxidants (r = −0.66 for all oils). The degradation degree of tested compounds during oxidation (on average) was as follows: phytosterols > tocopherols > carotenoids > phenolic compounds > chlorophylls.

Practical applications: Rapeseed oil is a popular edible oil and may be a good source of oil‐soluble vitamins, polyunsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants in human diet. However, its composition depends mainly on the rape genotypes, cultivation conditions, industrial practices, and storage conditions. In this study, we evaluated the variability in chemical composition of typical commercial rapeseed oils immediately after opening the package and at the end of their induction time. We have shown that fatty acids composition of tested oils was relatively stable, while their minor compounds content were significantly different. Oils oxidative stability was mainly related to phenolic compounds. These informations are important both for the consumers (nutrition facts), and industry (phenolics as antioxidants).

Score plot of the two first principal components after PCA analysis of oil‐soluble minor components of fresh (1‐21) and oxidized (1’‐21’) rapeseed oils with an indication by ellipses samples of cold pressed oils before (green) and after oxidation (yellow); 1‐3 – cold pressed, unrefined oils, 4‐21 – refined mixture of pressed and extracted oils.
3D‐Branched Rigid–Flexible Hybrid Sulfonated Polyamide for Proton Exchange Membranes (PEMs) in Fuel Cell Applications
Authors: Li Jing , Cai Weiwei , Zhang Yunfeng , Xu Guodong , Cheng Hansong
Published: December 2014

3D‐branched proton exchange membranes (PEMs) were synthesized using molecular structural design of the rigid–flexible hybrid backbone. The 3D rigid–flexible hybrid PEM shows 20 % higher conductivity than the wholly rigid version with almost the same ion exchange capacity. Significant benefits for simultaneously improving water retention and dimensional stability were also demonstrated. The best measured conductivity of the three synthesized 3D rigid–flexible hybrid structural PEMs was 0.162 S cm−1, which is higher than that of the Nafion 117 membrane at 80 °C. An air‐breathing direct methanol fuel cell assembled with the 3D‐branched PEM displayed superior performance, exhibiting 12 % higher power density than the device assembled using a commercial Nafion membrane with 4 M methanol supplied.
Low cyclic fatigue and hysteretic behavior of U‐shaped steel dampers for seismically isolated buildings under dynamic cyclic loadings
Authors: Jiao Yu , Kishiki Shoichi , Yamada Satoshi , Ene Diana , Konishi Yoshinao , Hoashi Yuuma , Terashima Masao
Published: December 2014

Energy dissipation devices are necessary for base‐isolated buildings to control the deformation in the isolation system and to dissipate the earthquake‐induced energy. U‐shaped steel dampers (also known as U‐dampers) dissipate energy through plastic deformation of specially designed U‐shaped steel elements. This type of device can be installed at several locations in the isolation system. U‐dampers have been widely used in Japan for different types of isolated structures, such as hospitals, plants and residential buildings, since the 1995 Kobe Earthquake. Previous research has used static tests to estimate the performance of U‐dampers. However, the ultimate plastic deformation capacities and hysteretic behaviors of full‐scale U‐dampers under dynamic excitations still remain unclear. In addition, it is unclear whether the initial temperature has an effect on the hysteretic behavior and plastic deformation capacity of U‐dampers. In this paper, two series of dynamic loading tests of U‐dampers were conducted to evaluate the issues described earlier. The major findings of the study are (i) the loading speed has little effect on the plastic deformation capacity of U‐dampers; (ii) method to evaluate the ultimate plastic deformation capacities of U‐shaped steel dampers of different sizes is established using a Manson–Coffin relation‐based equation that is based on the peak‐to‐peak horizontal shear angle γt, which is defined as the lateral deformation amplitude (peak‐to‐peak amplitude) divided by the height of the dampers; (iii) the loading rate and the initial temperature have a minimal effect on the hysteretic behavior of the U‐dampers; and (iv) a bilinear model is proposed to simulate the force‐deformation relationships of the U‐dampers. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Long‐term seismic monitoring of base‐isolated building with emphasis on serviceability assessment
Authors: Siringoringo Dionysius M. , Fujino Yozo
Published: December 2014

Seismic monitoring system provides opportunities to observe possible damage or failure and weakening of structural components and to evaluate serviceability performance of a structure during an earthquake. This can be achieved by comparing structure recordings before and after the event or by identifying significant change in characteristics of structural response that may serve as indicators of failure or damage in progress. Excessive vibration on some parts of structure may become a serviceability concern for some buildings, and this also can be detected from continuous monitoring. Several factors such as characteristics of ground motion, soil condition, and geometry of the structure could cause excessive localized structural vibration, and by evaluating the responses, one can take remedial action. For a base‐isolated building in particular, reduction of response of upper stories is critical to protect nonstructural elements or sensitive equipments on the building. In this paper, we describe a case study on seismic monitoring of a base‐isolated building with the main focus on evaluation of serviceability performance. The study emphasizes on a influence of building asymmetricity on the seismic response. Results of the study are based on a long‐term building seismic monitoring program for over 3 years between 2010 and 2012 under various amplitudes of earthquake including the March 11, 2011 Great East‐Japan Earthquake. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of oxomolybdate species dispersion on direct methanol oxidation to dimethoxymethane over MoOx/TiO2 catalysts
Authors: Faye Jérémy , Capron Mickaël , Takahashi Atsushi , Paul Sébastien , Katryniok Benjamin , Fujitani Tadahiro , Dumeignil Franck
Published: December 2014

The one‐step selective oxidation of methanol to dimethoxymethane (DMM) was demonstrated over titania‐supported molybdenum oxide catalysts, containing different amounts of molybdenum and prepared using two different impregnation techniques, namely wet impregnation and incipient wetness impregnation. The corresponding catalysts exhibited both acidic and redox properties, which are necessary for the oxidation of methanol to formaldehyde with subsequent condensation of the latter with excess methanol to finally yield DMM. The formation of well‐dispersed polyoxomolybdate species on the catalyst surface was evidenced using IR‐Raman, X‐ray diffraction, and nitrogen physisorption. Varying the amount of these polyoxomolydate species was associated with a modulation of the acidic and redox properties, as shown by NH3‐TPD and H2‐TPR. With respect to the catalytic performances, the best balance between acid and redox properties was observed over the samples containing 8 wt.% Mo, which corresponds to a theoretical MoOx species coverage close to a monolayer.
Challenges and opportunities in drug and biomarker development for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis: Findings and recommendations from an American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases–U.S. Food and Drug Administration Joint Workshop
Authors: Sanyal Arun J. , Friedman Scott L. , McCullough Arthur J. , Dimick‐Santos Lara
Published: December 2014

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of chronic liver disease (CLD) in North America. It is a growing contributor to the burden of CDL requiring liver transplantation. Cirrhosis is also associated with an increased risk of hepatocellular cancer, which may occur even in the absence of cirrhosis in subjects with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), the histological form of NAFLD associated with increased liver‐related mortality. The diagnosis of NASH currently requires a liver biopsy. There are also no U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)‐approved therapies for NASH. Therefore, there is a need to develop better diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for patients with NASH, targeting both those with early‐stage disease as well as those with advanced liver fibrosis. There are unique challenges in the design of studies for these target populations. The long relatively asymptomatic time interval in the progression of NAFLD and NASH to cirrhosis and ultimately liver failure, along with gaps in knowledge regarding disease modifiers, combine to present significant challenges in trial design. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop methods to identify the populations at particular risk of disease progression and validate endpoints that reflect meaningful changes in health status in this population. This article summarizes the discussion at a joint workshop held September 5 and 6, 2013 in Silver Spring, Maryland, sponsored by the FDA and the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases to develop guidance on diagnostic and therapeutic modalities for NASH. (Hepatology 2015;61:1392–1405)
Caffeine ameliorates hemodynamic derangements and portosystemic collaterals in cirrhotic rats
Authors: Hsu Shao‐Jung , Lee Fa‐Yauh , Wang Sun‐Sang , Hsin I‐Fang , Lin Te‐Yueh , Huang Hui‐Chun , Chang Ching‐Chih , Chuang Chiao‐Lin , Ho Hsin‐Ling , Lin Han‐Chieh , Lee Shou‐Dong
Published: December 2014

Portal hypertension (PH), a pathophysiological derangement of liver cirrhosis, is characterized by hyperdynamic circulation, angiogenesis, and portosystemic collaterals. These may lead to lethal complications, such as variceal bleeding. Caffeine has been noted for its effects on liver inflammation, fibrogenesis, and vasoreactiveness. However, the relevant influences of caffeine in cirrhosis and PH have not been addressed. Spraque‐Dawley rats with common bile duct ligation–induced cirrhosis or sham operation received prophylactic or therapeutic caffeine treatment (50 mg/kg/day, the first or 15th day since operation, respectively) for 28 days. Compared to vehicle (distilled water), caffeine decreased cardiac index, increased systemic vascular resistance, reduced portal pressure (PP), superior mesenteric artery flow, mesenteric vascular density, portosystemic shunting (PSS), intrahepatic angiogenesis, and fibrosis without affecting liver and renal biochemistry. The beneficial effects were reversed by selective adenosine A1 agonist N6‐cyclopentyladenosine (CPA) or A2A agonist GCS21680. Both prophylactic and therapeutic caffeine treatment decreased portal resistance and PP in thioacetamide (200mg/kg, thrice‐weekly for 8 weeks)‐induced cirrhotic rats. Caffeine down‐regulated endothelial nitric oxide synthase, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), phospho‐VEGFR2, and phospho–Akt mesenteric protein expression. Caffeine adversely affected viability of hepatic stellate and sinusoidal endothelial cells, which was reversed by CPA and GCS21680. On the other hand, caffeine did not modify vascular response to vasoconstrictors in splanchnic, hepatic, and collateral vascular beds. Conclusions: Caffeine decreased PP, ameliorated hyperdynamic circulation, PSS, mesenteric angiogenesis, hepatic angiogenesis, and fibrosis in cirrhotic rats. Caffeine may be a feasible candidate to ameliorate PH‐related complications in cirrhosis. (Hepatology 2015;61:1672‐1684)
Ubiquitin‐specific protease 7 accelerates p14ARF degradation by deubiquitinating thyroid hormone receptor‐interacting protein 12 and promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression
Authors: Cai Jia‐Bin , Shi Guo‐Ming , Dong Zhao‐Ru , Ke Ai‐Wu , Ma Hong‐Hui , Gao Qiang , Shen Zao‐Zhuo , Huang Xiao‐Yong , Chen Hao , Yu Ding‐Dang , Liu Li‐Xin , Zhang Peng‐Fei , Zhang Chi , Hu Mei‐Yu , Yang Liu‐Xiao , Shi Ying‐Hong , Wang Xiao‐Ying , Ding Zhen‐Bin , Qiu Shuang‐Jian , Sun Hui‐Chuan , Zhou Jian , Shi Yujiang G. , Fan Jia
Published: December 2014

The prognosis for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains dismal in terms of overall survival (OS), and its molecular pathogenesis has not been completely defined. Here, we report that expression of deubiquitylase ubiquitin‐specific protease 7 (USP7) is higher in human HCC tissues than in matched peritumoral tissues. Ectopic USP7 expression promotes growth of HCC cells in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, USP7 overexpression fosters HCC cell growth by forming a complex with and stabilizing thyroid hormone receptor‐interacting protein 12 (TRIP12), which induces constitutive p14ARF ubiquitination. Clinically, USP7 overexpression is significantly correlated with a malignant phenotype, including larger tumor size, multiple tumor, poor differentiation, elevated alpha‐fetoprotein, and microvascular invasion. Moreover, overexpression of USP7 and/or TRIP12 correlates with shorter OS and higher cumulative recurrence rates of HCC. Conclusion: USP7 stabilizes TRIP12 by deubiquitination, thus constitutively inactivating p14ARF and promoting HCC progression. This represents a novel marker for predicting prognosis and a potential therapeutic target for HCC. (Hepatology 2015;61:1603‐1614)
Expression of tumor suppressive microRNA‐34a is associated with a reduced risk of bladder cancer recurrence
Authors: Andrew Angeline S. , Marsit Carmen J. , Schned Alan R. , Seigne John D. , Kelsey Karl T. , Moore Jason H. , Perreard Laurent , Karagas Margaret R. , Sempere Lorenzo F.
Published: December 2014

Bladder cancer is the fourth most common cancer among men in the United States and more than half of patients experience recurrences within 5 years after initial diagnosis. Additional clinically informative and actionable biomarkers of the recurrent bladder cancer phenotypes are needed to improve screening and molecular therapeutic approaches for recurrence prevention. MicroRNA‐34a (miR‐34a) is a short noncoding regulatory RNA with tumor suppressive attributes. We leveraged our unique, large, population‐based prognostic study of bladder cancer in New Hampshire, United States to evaluate miR‐34a expression levels in individual tumor cells to assess prognostic value. We collected detailed exposure and medical history data, as well as tumor tissue specimens from bladder patients and followed them long‐term for recurrence, progression and survival. Fluorescence‐based in situ hybridization assays were performed on urothelial carcinoma tissue specimens (n = 229). A larger proportion of the nonmuscle invasive tumors had high levels of miR‐34a within the carcinoma cells compared to those tumors that were muscle invasive. Patients with high miR‐34a levels in their baseline nonmuscle invasive tumors experienced lower risks of recurrence (adjusted hazard ratio 0.57, 95% confidence interval 0.34–0.93). Consistent with these observations, we demonstrated a functional tumor suppressive role for miR‐34a in cultured urothelial cells, including reduced matrigel invasion and growth in soft agar. Our results highlight the need for further clinical studies of miR‐34a as a guide for recurrence screening and as a possible candidate therapeutic target in the bladder.
Combined effects of carbon, phosphorus and nitrogen on lipid accumulation of Chlorella vulgaris in mixotrophic culture
Authors: Li Chao , Yu Yanling , Zhang Dawei , Liu Jia , Ren Nanqi , Feng Yujie
Published: December 2014

BACKGROUND

Microalgae biodiesel has attracted considerable attention, however, low lipid content has significantly restricted its development. Many research studies have demonstrated that nutrient deficiency is an important factor stimulating lipid accumulation in algal cells. This present study investigated the combined effects of nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon on algal lipid accumulation by Chlorella vulgaris in mixotrophic culture.

RESULTS

Phosphorus at 0.2 g L−1 concentration inhibited Chlorella vulgaris growth but did not influence lipid accumulation. High concentration of NaNO3 (3.75 g L−1) inhibited both algal growth and lipid accumulation. Nitrogen sufficiency can stimulate lipid accumulation. Glucose limitation restricted both biomass production and lipid accumulation, resulting in lipid content decrease even under nitrogen sufficiency. CO2 was unable to satisfy the carbon demand for lipid accumulation when glucose was exhausted in mixotrophic culture. The initial C:N ratio of culture medium played an important role in algal lipid accumulation. Lipid content was maintained at 7.6–11.3% when the initial C:N of culture was less than 50, while it increased significantly to 23.9% with initial C:N of culture increased to 92.7.

CONCLUSION

Superior lipid accumulation requires limiting nitrogen concentration in the medium solution. High initial C:N ratio greater than 86 was found to be beneficial for algal lipid accumulation. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry