bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peptide‐based communication system enables Escherichia coli to Bacillus megaterium interspecies signaling
Authors: Marchand Nicholas , Collins Cynthia H.
Published: June 2013

The use of mixtures of microorganisms, or microbial consortia, has the potential to improve the productivity and efficiency of increasingly complex bioprocesses. However, the use of microbial consortia has been limited by our ability to control and coordinate the behaviors of microorganisms in synthetic communities. Synthetic biologists have previously engineered cell–cell communication systems that employ machinery from bacterial quorum‐sensing (QS) networks to enable population‐level control of gene expression. However, additional communication systems, such as those that enable communication between different species of bacteria, are needed to enable the use of diverse species in microbial consortia for bioprocessing. Here, we use the agr QS system from Staphylococcus aureus to generate an orthogonal synthetic communication system between Gram‐negative Escherichia coli and Gram‐positive Bacillus megaterium that is based on the production and recognition of autoinducing peptides (AIPs). We describe the construction and characterization of two types of B. megaterium “receiver” cells, capable of AIP‐dependent gene expression in response to AIPs that differ by a single amino acid. Further, we observed interspecies communication when these receiver cells were co‐cultured with AIP‐producing E. coli. We show that the two AIP‐based systems exhibit differences in sensitivity and specificity that may be advantageous in tuning communication‐dependent networks in synthetic consortia. These peptide‐based communication systems will enable the coordination of gene expression, metabolic pathways and growth between diverse microbial species, and represent a key step towards the use of microbial consortia in bioprocessing and biomanufacturing. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2013;110: 3003–3012. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Simple, effective and safe vascular access site closure with the double‐ProGlide preclose technique in 162 patients receiving transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Griese Daniel P. , Reents Wilko , Diegeler Anno , Kerber Sebastian , Babin‐Ebell Jörg
Published: June 2013

Objectives

Aim of this study was to analyze feasibility, efficacy, and safety of a double‐ProGlide preclose technique for access site closure after transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

Background

An effective and safe transcutaneous closure device is advantageous in transfemoral TAVI to avoid surgical cut down of the large caliber sheath insertion site. The use of two ProGlide sutures has not been described in this context in a large patient cohort.

Methods

ProGlide closure was used between 2010 and 2012 in 162 patients. ProGlide sutures were deployed in a preclose technique prior to insertion of the large caliber sheath. Success of the closure technique was defined as effective hemostasis and no further access site‐related vascular or bleeding complications during the index hospitalization.

Results

Patients were 82 ± 5 years old with a logistic EuroSCORE of 16.7 ± 12.5. Edwards SAPIEN valves were used in 81.5% and Medtronic CoreValves in 18.5%. The overall success rate of the double‐ProGlide technique was 93.9%. Success rate was only 40.0% under circumstances of prolonged high‐dose heparinization. Success rate was 96.8% among the patients on dual‐antiplatelet therapy (DAPT). All 10 ProGlide failures could effectively be managed by either percutaneous angioplasty or surgical reconstruction. The rate of VARC major vascular complications was 4.3%. Thirty‐day mortality was 5.6%.

Conclusion

The double‐ProGlide preclose technique offers a simple, highly effective, and safe method for closure of the arterial access site after transfemoral TAVI. The double‐ProGlide strategy results in low rates of major vascular complications and translates into favorable early outcome. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sequestration of Carbon Dioxide with Simultaneous Formation of Fine Calcium Carbonate Particles in Liposomes
Authors: Yoshimoto M. , Koyama T.
Published: June 2013

1‐Palmitoyl‐2‐oleoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphocholine (POPC) liposomes containing CaCl2 were prepared in Tris solution. The optimal initial pH and temperature were determined based on the kinetics of bulk crystallization of CaCO3 and to depress the leakage of Ca2+ from liposomes. The CaCO3 particles were formed by mixing the liposome suspension and CO2‐saturated water, as analyzed with the scanning transmission electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. The liposomal reaction system can be utilized for the formation of fine CaCO3 particles through sequestration of CO2.
Phase 2 trial of afatinib, an ErbB family blocker, in solid tumors genetically screened for target activation
Authors: Kwak Eunice L. , Shapiro Geoffrey I. , Cohen Seth M. , Becerra Carlos R. , Lenz Heinz‐Josef , Cheng Wen‐Fang , Su Wu-Chou , Robohn Meghan , Le Maulf Florence , Lobmeyer Maximilian T. , Chand Vikram K. , Iafrate A. John
Published: June 2013

BACKGROUND

The efficacy of afatinib, an irreversible ErbB Family Blocker, was evaluated in patients who had 1 of 4 categories of solid tumors with epidermal growth factor receptor/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (EGFR/HER2) gene amplification or EGFR‐activating mutations.

METHODS

Patients with previously treated but ErbB inhibitor‐naive esophagogastric, biliary tract, urothelial tract, or gynecologic cancers (lung cancers were excluded) harboring EGFR/HER2 gene amplification or high polysomy were identified by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Tumors were also screened for EGFR mutations. The primary endpoint was the objective response rate; secondary endpoints included the clinical benefit rate, pharmacokinetics, and safety.

RESULTS

Of 385 prescreened patients, 38 had FISH‐positive tumors (10 with EGFR amplification and 29 with HER2 amplification or high polysomy [1 tumor had EGFR/HER2 high polysomy]; none had EGFR‐activating mutations), and 20 patients received treatment with afatinib 50 mg daily. The objective response rate was 5% (1 of 20 patients), and the best objective response included 1 complete response. Eight patients experienced stable disease. The most frequently reported adverse events were diarrhea, rash, and decreased appetite. The trial closed early because of slow recruitment.

CONCLUSIONS

Single‐agent afatinib activity was limited, yet encouraging, in selected tumors that were screened prospectively for target activation. The implementation of a biomarker‐driven approach using a low‐frequency biomarker for patient selection across multiple tumor types can be challenging. Cancer 2013;119:3043—3051. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
CD3−NK1.1+ cells aid in the early induction of a Th1 response to an attaching and effacing enteric pathogen
Authors: Reid‐Yu Sarah A. , Small Cherrie‐Lee N. , Coombes Brian K.
Published: June 2013

Extracellular attaching and effacing (A/E) pathogens including pathogenic Escherichia coli colonize the host gut causing diarrhea and inflammation. Although much is known regarding the pathogenesis of A/E bacteria, there remains an incomplete understanding of host immune responses to these microbes. NK cells are an important source of IFN‐γ and are essential for early innate responses to viral pathogens; however, their role during extracellular bacterial infections is still largely unexplored. We studied the host response to the murine A/E pathogen Citrobacter rodentium to investigate NK‐cell function during infection. NK1.1+ cell depletions and analysis of colonic intestinal inflammation following Citrobacter infection demonstrated that CD3−NK1.1+ cells play an important role in the initial clearance of C. rodentium, as evidenced by higher bacterial load, intestinal pathology, and crypt hyperplasia at the peak of inflammation in depleted mice. Loss of CD3−NK1.1+ cells resulted in lower colonic IFN‐γ, TNF‐α, and IL‐12, and a delay in homing of IFN‐γ+CD4+ T cells to the gut. Loss of this response resulted in lower anti‐C. rodentium IgG in NK1.1‐depleted mice. These data establish that CD3−NK1.1+ cells are critical for inducing an early Th1 response involved in clearance of a pathogen that is restricted to the gastrointestinal tract.
CDK‐mediated activation of the SCFFBXO28 ubiquitin ligase promotes MYC‐driven transcription and tumourigenesis and predicts poor survival in breast cancer
Authors: Cepeda Diana , Ng Hwee‐Fang , Sharifi Hamid Reza , Mahmoudi Salah , Cerrato Vanessa Soto , Fredlund Erik , Magnusson Kristina , Nilsson Helén , Malyukova Alena , Rantala Juha , Klevebring Daniel , Viñals Francesc , Bhaskaran Nimesh , Zakaria Siti Mariam , Rahmanto Aldwin Suryo , Grotegut Stefan , Nielsen Michael Lund , Szigyarto Cristina Al‐Khalili , Sun Dahui , Lerner Mikael , Navani Sanjay , Widschwendter Martin , Uhlén Mathias , Jirström Karin , Pontén Fredrik , Wohlschlegel James , Grandér Dan , Spruck Charles , Larsson Lars‐Gunnar , Sangfelt Olle
Published: June 2013

SCF (Skp1/Cul1/F‐box) ubiquitin ligases act as master regulators of cellular homeostasis by targeting key proteins for ubiquitylation. Here, we identified a hitherto uncharacterized F‐box protein, FBXO28 that controls MYC‐dependent transcription by non‐proteolytic ubiquitylation. SCFFBXO28 activity and stability are regulated during the cell cycle by CDK1/2‐mediated phosphorylation of FBXO28, which is required for its efficient ubiquitylation of MYC and downsteam enhancement of the MYC pathway. Depletion of FBXO28 or overexpression of an F‐box mutant unable to support MYC ubiquitylation results in an impairment of MYC‐driven transcription, transformation and tumourigenesis. Finally, in human breast cancer, high FBXO28 expression and phosphorylation are strong and independent predictors of poor outcome. In conclusion, our data suggest that SCFFBXO28 plays an important role in transmitting CDK activity to MYC function during the cell cycle, emphasizing the CDK‐FBXO28‐MYC axis as a potential molecular drug target in MYC‐driven cancers, including breast cancer.
The influence of dilution on downstream channel sedimentation in large rivers: the Yellow River, China
Authors: Xu Jiongxin
Published: June 2013

Due to the temporal decoupling of water and sediment sources in a large river basin, a flood from a sediment source area with high suspended sediment concentration (SSC) may be diluted by flow from a major runoff source area with low SSC. In this paper, this dilution effect is considered for 145 flood events from the Yellow River, China. Two indices (β1 and β2) describing the dilution effect are proposed, based on water and sediment from the clear water source area and the coarse sediment producing area. Regression equations between channel sedimentation (Sdep) and β1 and β2 are established based on flood events and annual data, respectively. The results show that dilution reduces channel sedimentation in the lower reaches by 34∙1% and that this is related to a reduced frequency of hyperconcentrated flows in the lower reaches. The Longyangxia Reservoir for hydro‐electric generation has stored huge quantities of clear runoff from the upper Yellow River during high‐flow season since 1985, greatly reducing the dilution of the hyperconcentrated floods and therefore enhancing sedimentation in the lower reaches. For the purpose of reducing sedimentation, changing the operational mode of the Longyangxia Reservoir to restore the dilution effect is suggested. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A skeletal Sr/Ca record preserved in Dipsastraea (Favia) speciosa and implications for coral Sr/Ca thermometry in mid‐latitude regions
Authors: Seo Inah , Lee Yong Il , Watanabe Tsuyoshi , Yamano Hiroya , Shimamura Michiyo , Yoo Chan Min , Hyeong Kiseong
Published: June 2013

A core (900 mm long) of the scleractinian coral Dipsastraea (Favia) speciosa was collected from Iki Island (∼33°48′N), Japan, one of the highest latitude coral reefs known to exist at present, where winter monthly mean sea surface temperature (SST) drops to 13°C. The Sr/Ca profile was constructed using a bulk sampling method for the uppermost 280 mm interval of the core, which grew between 1966 and 2007, to test whether it could act as a suitable proxy for SST in a harsh environmental setting where reef‐building coral do not usually survive. The Sr/Ca‐SST relationship derived from the annual Sr/Ca and SST extremes predicted the observed monthly averaged summer SST extremes within an error range of ±1.1°C (1 s.d., n = 40). The obtained Sr/Ca‐SST calibration was also found to be valid for subtropical Dipsastraea (Favia) corals, proving its broad applicability. However, low‐amplitude winter peaks were observed in the slow‐growing intervals, which we confirmed (using individual spot analysis along a continuous growth line) result from the mixing of theca grown at different times. Our bulk sampling approach, across multiple growth lines in the skeleton of D. (F.) speciosa, led to the mixing of asynchronous skeletal part. At the study site, D. (F.) speciosa grows continuously, even during the cold season, suggesting that the skeletal Sr/Ca obtained from specimens of D. (F.) speciosa can be used as an SST proxy in the northwest Pacific marginal seas.
Ten years of soil CO2 continuous monitoring on Mt. Etna: Exploring the relationship between processes of soil degassing and volcanic activity
Authors: Liuzzo Marco , Gurrieri Sergio , Giudice Gaetano , Giuffrida Giovanni
Published: June 2013

The measurement of soil CO2 flux variations is a well−established practice in many volcanic areas around the world. Until recently, however, most of these were made using direct sampling methods. These days, a variety of automatic devices providing real‐time data now make the continuous monitoring of volcanic areas possible. A network of automatic geochemical monitoring stations (EtnaGas network) was developed by INGV Palermo and installed at various sites on the flanks of Mt. Etna. Here, we present a large set of soil CO2 flux data recorded by the network, dating back 10 years, a period in which several noteworthy eruptive phenomena occurred. Our statistical analysis strongly suggests that anomalous measurements of soil CO2 flux are attributable to volcanic origin and in almost all cases precede volcanic activity. Here, we present the actual data series recorded by EtnaGAS and an interpretative model of the expected behavior of soil CO2 flux (in terms of increase‐decrease cycles), which corresponded well with the volcanic activity during this period. Through the use of a comparative approach, incorporating both volcanological and geochemical data, the global soil CO2 flux trends are put into a coherent framework, highlighting close links between the time flux variations and volcanic activities. These insights, made possible from 10 years of uninterrupted data, confirm the importance of continuous monitoring of volcanic soil degassing, and may contribute in the forecasting of imminent eruptive activity or the temporal evolution of an in‐progress eruption, therefore facilitating Civil Defense planning in volcanic areas under high‐hazard conditions.
Basaloid squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx: Analysis of 145 cases with comparison to conventional squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Fritsch Valerie A. , Lentsch Eric J.
Published: June 2013

Background

Basaloid squamous cell carcinoma (BSCC) is a rare subtype squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) that frequently occurs in the larynx. BSCC is generally considered an aggressive SCC variant; however, because of its rarity, most studies are underpowered to detect statistical differences in disease‐specific survival (DSS).

Methods

Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database, we compared clinicopathologic data and DSS between patients with laryngeal BSCC and SCC.

Results

Patients with relative SCC, those with laryngeal BSCC, presented with more advanced local, regional, and distant disease (p < .001). Patients with BSCC had worse DSS, regardless of stage, tumor location within the larynx (glottis/supraglottis; p < .001), or treatment received (p ≤ .052).

Conclusion

Analysis of the largest laryngeal BSCC series to date (n = 145) demonstrates that BSCC carries a worse prognosis than conventional SCC of the larynx. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 36: 164–170, 2014
An overview of recent advances in designing orthopedic and craniofacial implants
Authors: Mantripragada Venkata P. , Lecka‐Czernik Beata , Ebraheim Nabil A. , Jayasuriya Ambalangodage C.
Published: June 2013

Great deal of research is still going on in the field of orthopedic and craniofacial implant development to resolve various issues being faced by the industry today. Despite several disadvantages of the metallic implants, they continue to be used, primarily because of their superior mechanical properties. In order to minimize the harmful effects of the metallic implants and its by‐products, several modifications are being made to these materials, for instance nickel‐free stainless steel, cobalt‐chromium and titanium alloys are being introduced to eliminate the toxic effects of nickel being released from the alloys, introduce metallic implants with lower modulus, reduce the cost of these alloys by replacing rare elements with less expensive elements etc. New alloys like tantalum, niobium, zirconium, and magnesium are receiving attention given their satisfying mechanical and biological properties. Non‐oxide ceramics like silicon nitride and silicon carbide are being currently developed as a promising implant material possessing a combination of properties such as good wear and corrosion resistance, increased ductility, good fracture and creep resistance, and relatively high hardness in comparison to alumina. Polymer/magnesium composites are being developed to improve mechanical properties as well as retain polymer's property of degradation. Recent advances in orthobiologics are proving interesting as well. This paper thus deals with the latest improvements being made to the existing implant materials and includes new materials being introduced in the field of biomaterials. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A: 3349–3364, 2013.
Impact through time of different sized titanium dioxide particles on biochemical and histopathological parameters
Authors: Bruno Marcos E. , Tasat Deborah R. , Ramos Emilio , Paparella María L. , Evelson Pablo , Rebagliati Raúl Jiménez , Cabrini Rómulo L. , Guglielmotti María B. , Olmedo Daniel G.
Published: June 2013

Due to corrosion, a titanium implant surface can be a potential source for the release of micro (MPs) and nano‐sized particles (NPs) into the biological environment. This work sought to evaluate the biokinetics of different sized titanium dioxide particles (TiO2) and their potential to cause cell damage. Wistar rats were intraperitoneally injected with 150 nm, 10 nm, or 5nm TiO2 particles. The presence of TiO2 particles was evaluated in histologic sections of the liver, lung, and kidney and in blood cells at 3 and 12 months. Ultrastructural analysis of liver and lung tissue was performed by TEM, deposit concentration in tissues was determined spectroscopically, and oxidative metabolism was assessed by determining oxidative membrane damage, generation of superoxide anion (O2‐), and enzymatic and non‐enzymatic antioxidants. TiO2 particles were observed inside mononuclear blood cells and in organ parenchyma at 3 and 12 months. TiO2 deposits were consistently larger in liver than in lung tissue. Alveolar macrophage O2‐ generation and average particle size correlated negatively (p < 0.05). NPs were more reactive and biopersistent in lung tissue than MPs. Antioxidant activity, particularly in the case of 5 nm particles, failed to compensate for membrane damage in liver cells; the damage was consistent with histological evidence of necrosis. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 1439–1448, 2014.
Jagged1 immobilization to an osteoconductive polymer activates the Notch signaling pathway and induces osteogenesis
Authors: Dishowitz Michael I. , Zhu Fengchang , Sundararaghavan Harini G. , Ifkovits Jamie L. , Burdick Jason A. , Hankenson Kurt D.
Published: June 2013

Treatment of nonunion fractures is a significant problem. Common therapeutics, including autologous bone grafts and bone morphogenetic proteins, show well‐established limitations. Therefore, a need persists for the identification of novel clinical therapies to promote healing. The Notch signaling pathway regulates bone development. Clinically, loss‐of‐function mutations to the Notch ligand Jagged1 decrease bone mass and increase fracture risk. Jagged1 is also the most highly upregulated ligand during fracture repair, identifying it as a potential target to promote bone formation. Therefore, the objective of this study was to develop a clinically translatable construct comprised of Jagged1 and an osteoconductive scaffold, and characterize its activity in human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC). We first evaluated the effects of Jagged1 directly immobilized to a novel poly(β‐amino ester) relative to indirect coupling via antibody. Direct was more effective at activating hMSC Notch target gene expression and osteogenic activity. We then found that directly immobilized Jagged1 constructs induced osteoblast differentiation. This is the first study to demonstrate that Jagged1 delivery transiently activates Notch signaling and increases osteogenesis. A positive correlation was found between Jagged1‐induced Notch and osteogenic expression. Collectively, these results indicate that Jagged1 coupled to an osteogenic biomaterial could promote bone tissue formation during fracture healing. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 1558–1567, 2014.
Biventricular Tako‐Tsubo cardiomyopathy: Usefulness of 2D speckle tracking strain echocardiography
Authors: Vizzardi Enrico , Bonadei Ivano , Piovanelli Barbara , Bugatti Silvia , D'Aloia Antonio
Published: June 2013

Tako‐Tsubo cardiomyopathy is a transient left ventricular apical ballooning syndrome also known as stress‐induced cardiomyopathy. This reversible cardiomyopathy without epicardial coronary artery disease mimics acute myocardial infarction. Right ventricular involvement, which has been infrequently reported, is present in about a quarter of cases of Tako‐Tsubo cardiomyopathy and is associated with a more severe clinical outcome. We report the case of a 55‐year‐old postmenopausal woman with transient biventricular apical ballooning. She recently had acute exacerbation of multiple sclerosis. Regional and global function of both ventricles was estimated using two‐dimensional speckle tracking strain echocardiography. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 42:121–124, 2014
Dentin erosion by whitening mouthwash associated to toothbrushing abrasion: A focus variation 3D scanning microscopy study
Authors: Lima Juliana P.M. , Melo Mary A.S. , Passos Vanara F. , Braga CÍcero L.N. , Rodrigues Lidiany K.A. , Santiago SÉrgio L.
Published: June 2013

The aim of this study was to determine the erosive potential of hydrogen peroxide (HP) containing mouthwash on dentin assessed by Focus variation three‐dimensional (3D) microscopy. Twenty dentin slabs were selected and randomly allocated into two groups (n = 10): DW—Distilled water (pH = 7.27) and HP—1.5% (pH = 3.78). Each specimen was cyclically demineralized (4 × 60 s/day, 10 days) with HP or DW and brushed 3×/day (200 g, 150 strokes—toothpaste with 1,450 ppmF as NaF). Between the challenges, the specimens were exposed to artificial saliva. Afterward, dentin loss was analyzed using focus variation 3D microscopy, and the data were submitted to unpaired t‐test (α = 0.05). Statistically significant difference was found between the mean wear rate (μm, ±SD) of HP (1.98 ± 0.51) and DW (1.45 ± 0.39). The results suggest that the use of HP‐containing mouthwash associated to brushing may increase the risk of tissue loss and focus variation 3D microscopy may be used as a technique for quantifying dental wear. Microsc. Res. Tech. 76:904–908, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Correlation between transgen expression and plasmid DNA loss in mouse liver
Authors: Togashi Ryohei , Harashima Hideyoshi , Kamiya Hiroyuki
Published: June 2013

Background

Transgene expression from plasmid DNA is dependent on the expression efficiency per plasmid and the amount of intranuclear plasmid. In the present study, intranuclear dispositions of two types of plasmid DNAs (i.e. the pCpGfree and pLIVE plasmids) that maintain transgene expression in mouse liver were analyzed. In addition, the relationship between transgene expression and plasmid stability in the nucleus was examined.

Methods

First, the pCpGfree and pLIVE plasmid DNAs, bearing the mouse secreted alkaline phosphatase (Seap) gene, were administered into mouse liver by the hydrodynamics‐based method. Next, various Seap‐plasmid DNAs containing different promoters, upstream and downstream sequences, and backbones were injected into mice, and both SEAP expression and plasmid DNA amounts were monitored for 28 days.

Results

At the 14‐ and 28‐day time points, the amount of the pCpGfree plasmid DNA was one order of magnitude less than that of the pLIVE plasmid. Meanwhile, the expression efficiency per plasmid was one order of magnitude more efficient for the pCpGfree plasmid DNA. Moreover, the administration of various Seap‐plasmid DNAs revealed that negative correlations exist between plasmid stability and SEAP expression level.

Conclusions

The results obtained suggest that the pCpGfree plasmid is unstable from the viewpoint of quantity and maintains transgene expression by its high expression efficiency and also that transgene expression negatively affects the stability of plasmid DNA. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antifungal, insecticidal, and plant growth promoting potential of Streptomyces hydrogenans DH16
Authors: Kaur Talwinder , Manhas Rajesh Kumari
Published: June 2013

In the present study, an actinobacterium strain, possessing antagonistic activity against different fungal phytopathogens viz. Colletotrichum acutatum, Cladosporium herbarum, Alternaria brassicicola, Exserohilum sp., Alternaria mali, Colletotrichum gleospoiroides, Alternaria alternata, Cercospora sp., Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. dianthi and Fusarium moniliformae, was isolated from soil and identified as Streptomyces hydrogenans DH16. Application of culture supernatant (5%)/cells (107 cfu ml−1), 2 h post inoculation with A. brassicicola (105 spores ml−1), resulted in 85.95 and 93.75% suppression of black leaf spot of Raphanus sativus, respectively on detached leaves. Whereas cells/culture supernatant (above 5%) completely suppressed the disease incidence when co inoculated with fungal pathogen. The crude extract containing antifungal components was completely stable at 70 °C for 1 h retaining 90 and 67.67% activity after boiling (for 1 h) and autoclaving (121 °C for 30 min), respectively. No loss in activity was observed when treated with proteinase K and on exposure to sun and UV light and found to be active over a wide range of pH (2 to 14). Bioautography of the solvent extract against test phytopathogens revealed the presence of three active components. Ethyl acetate extract of DH16 also demonstrated insecticidal activity against Spodoptera litura, causing 40% larval mortality and extension of larval period. In addition, it produced 30 µg ml−1 of Indole Acetic Acid (IAA) in a medium containing tryptophan which promoted lateral root formation in Vigna radiata (green gram). These results indicate that Streptomyces hydrogenans holds the potential to be used as antifungal, insecticidal, and plant growth promoting agent.
Rapid atto‐molar level detection of surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy technique based on glycidyl methacrylate–ethylene dimethacrylate (GMA–EDMA) porous material
Authors: Li Qingqing , Du Yiping , Wang Xuan , Cao Peng , Sui Tao , Xu Ying , Geng Jinpei
Published: June 2013

A novel miniature device for rapid ultra‐sensitive surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) detection was developed in the present study. The device was made of a syringe, a piece of filter, and a Teflon tube. Therefore, it was with advantages of simplicity, miniaturization, and easy operability. The tube was filled in advance with the glycidyl methacrylate‐ethylene dimethacrylate powder porous material which has been proved to increase the sensitivity of normal SERS dramatically, then the mixture solution containing the analyte, silver colloid, and NaCl solution passed through the porous material by the action of the syringe. SERS signals were collected from the surface of the material. Rhodamine 6G (R6G), p‐aminothiophenol (PATP), and thiabendazole (TBZ) were employed as the probe molecules in the present work. R6G at microlitre‐scale can be detected at an extremely low concentration of 10–18 mol/l, and the relative standard deviation of spot to spot is 14.16% at the intensity of the band at 609 cm−1. The concentrations of PATP and TBZ that can be detected with the method are 10−11 mol/l and 1.3 × 10−6 mol/l, respectively. This method not only has achieved the ultra‐sensitive detection of dye and pesticide but also realized the simple, rapid, and small sample quantity requirement detection, and it is of great potential use for lots of analytes. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Raman spectroscopy with LED excitation source
Authors: Greer Joshua S. , Petrov Georgi I. , Yakovlev Vladislav V.
Published: June 2013

We propose and experimentally demonstrate a novel instrument arrangement, which allows for the collection of Raman spectra with a broadband light source. This is achieved by spatially dispersing the optical spectrum in the focal plane and confocally reimaging the Raman signal, which originates from different locations, onto the entrance slit of an imaging spectrometer. Using this approach and broadband radiation derived from a commercially available LED, we acquired high signal‐to‐noise spectra with a spectral resolution limited by the spectral resolution of a spectrometer. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surface plasmon photodetectors and their applications
Authors: Berini Pierre
Published: June 2013

Surface plasmon photodetectors are of vigorous current interest. Such detectors typically combine a metallic structure that supports surface plasmons with a photodetection structure based on internal photoemission or electron‐hole pair creation. Detector architectures are highly varied, involving surface plasmons on planar metal waveguides, on metal gratings, on nano‐particles, ‐islands, or ‐antennas, or involving plasmon‐mediated transmission through one or many sub‐wavelength holes in a metal film. Properties inherent to surface plasmons, such as sub‐wavelength confinement and their ability to resonate on tiny metallic structures, are exploited to convey useful characteristics to detectors in addressing applications such as low‐noise high‐speed detection, single‐plasmon detection, near‐ and mid‐infrared imaging, photovoltaic solar energy conversion, and (bio)chemical sensing. The operating principles behind surface plasmon detectors are reviewed, the literature on the topic is surveyed, and avenues that appear promising are highlighted.
BSAand Fibrinogen Adsorption on Chitosan/κ‐Carrageenan Polyelectrolyte Complexes
Authors: Carneiro Thiane N. , Novaes Denise S. , Rabelo Rodrigo B. , Celebi Betul , Chevallier Pascale , Mantovani Diego , Beppu Marisa M. , Vieira Rodrigo S.
Published: June 2013

PECs of chitosan/κ‐carrageenan are prepared in three different volumetric rations. The complex formation is characterized in order to evaluate the blending formation. Blood compatibility is evaluated by protein adsorption (BSA and fibrinogen) and PEC toxicities are determined with fibroblast cell viability and proliferation. The swelling degree of PECs decreases when the amount of chitosan increases. Due to the linked film formation, PECs decrease BSA adsorption and increase fibrinogen adsorption when compared to the pristine chitosan and κ‐carrageenan films. Although pristine chitosan and κ‐carrageenan films produced similar cell expansion and viability, the PEC 50:50 vol% chitosan/κ‐carrageenan PEC may be acceptable as a new scaffold for cell therapies, due to their effect on cell survival.
Antimicrobial susceptibility and molecular typing of MRSA in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Champion E.A. , Miller M.B. , Popowitch E.B. , Hobbs M.M. , Saiman L. , Muhlebach M.S. ,   for the STAR‐CF Study Team
Published: June 2013

Objectives

The prevalence of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients in the United States is approximately 25%. Little is known about the relative proportion of hospital‐ versus community‐associated strains or the antimicrobial susceptibility of MRSA in different CF centers. We hypothesized that the majority of MRSA isolates obtained from children with CF are those endemic in the hospital and that those associated with community acquisition (SCCmec IV) would be more resistant than typically seen in non‐CF MRSA isolates.

Methods

We studied MRSA strains from seven pediatric CF centers to determine the clonal distribution based on DNA sequencing of the staphylococcal protein A gene (spa typing), the type of staphylococcal chromosomal cassette mec (SCCmec), and the proportion of strains with Panton‐Valentine leukocidin (PVL). Antimicrobial susceptibility to systemic and topical antibiotics was compared between different MRSA types.

Results

We analyzed 277 MRSA isolates from unique patients (mean age 11.15 ± 4.77 years, 55% male). Seventy % of isolates were SCCmec II PVL negative and the remainder SCCmec IV. Overall 17% MRSA strains were PVL positive (all SCCmec IV). Spa typing of 118 isolates showed most of the SCCmec II strains being t002, while SCCmec IV PVL positive isolates were t008, and SCCmec IV PVL negative isolates represented a variety of spa‐types. The proportions of SCCmec II strains and spa‐types were similar among centers. Overall rates of resistance to trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole (4%), tetracycline (7%), tigecycline (0.4%), linezolid (0.4%) as well as fosfomycin (0.4%), fusidic acid (3%), and mupirocin (1%) were low. No strains were resistant to vancomycin. SCCmec II strains had higher rates of resistance to ciprofloxacin and clindamycin (P < 0.001) than SCCmec IV strains.

Conclusions

In this U.S. study, most MRSA isolates in the pediatric CF population were SCCmec II PVL negative. Rates of resistance were low, including to older and orally available antibiotics such as trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2014; 49:230–237. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Science Interests in Preschool Boys and Girls: Relations to Later Self‐Concept and Science Achievement
Authors: LEIBHAM MARY BETH , ALEXANDER JOYCE M. , JOHNSON KATHY E.
Published: June 2013

Although young children display various types of interests, little is known regarding the potential impact of these interests on subsequent learning and development. Of particular importance is the question of whether or not children's early interests are instrumental in their later academic achievement. The current study fills this gap in the interest literature by longitudinally investigating the relationship between 116 children's early science interests and their subsequent self‐concepts and science‐related academic achievement, with particular emphasis placed on gender. The intensity and content of children's science interests between the ages of 4 and 6 (i.e., preschool interests) and between the ages of 6 and 8 (i.e., elementary school interests) were used as predictors of age 8 self‐concept and science achievement. Boys displayed higher overall levels of science interests than girls, though interest was not related to boys’ self‐concepts. Girls’ early intense science interests were related to higher science self‐concepts at age 8. In addition, early interests predicted science achievement in girls but not in boys. In conclusion, it appears that early science interest may be a critical supporting factor for girls in fostering positive self‐concepts and higher science achievement scores. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Sci Ed 97:574–593, 2013
SIMS sputtering rates in biogenic aragonite: implications for culture calibration studies for palaeoenvironmental reconstruction
Authors: Allison Nicola , Chambers David , Finch Adrian A. ,   EIMF
Published: June 2013

We used scanning white light interferometry to view the craters produced during secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) analysis of the CaCO3 skeleton of an aragonitic coral. The dimensions and volumes of craters sputtered during trace element, δ18O, δ13C and δ11B analyses were determined. Sputtering rates were ~6 µm3 nA−1 min−1 for a 16O− primary beam and ranged from ~12 µm3 nA−1 min−1 (for δ18O analyses) to ~19 µm3 nA−1 (for δ13C analyses) using a Cs+ primary beam. Sputter yields (atoms sputtered/impinging primary ions) ranged from 1.3 to 1.4 for a 16O− primary beam and from 2.5 to 4.5 using a Cs+ primary beam. Useful ion yields (ions detected/atoms sputtered), using instrument conditions typically used in geoscience applications, were of the order of 10−4 for B, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba and C and 10−2 for O. The maximum lengths of the SIMS craters, at the sample surface, range from ~17 µm (δ13C analyses) to ~36 µm (δ11B analyses) and crater depths range from ≤3 µm (δ18O analyses) to >20 µm (δ11B analyses). These dimensions are significant in relation to accretion rates in a range of biogenic carbonates and SIMS analyses typically sample carbonate deposited over time periods of days to months depending on the organism and structure analysed. In culture calibration studies, accurate determination of the temporal resolution of the analysed volume is crucial to ensure that the entire volume reflects the culture conditions and does not include carbonate deposited prior to introduction of the organism to the culture system. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The 10.7 cm solar radio flux (F10.7)
Authors: Tapping K. F.
Published: June 2013

The 10.7 cm solar radio flux, or F10.7 is, along with sunspot number, one of the most widely used indices of solar activity. This paper describes the equipment and procedures used to make the measurements and to calibrate them, and discusses some of the “most‐asked” questions about the data.
The RNase II/RNB family of exoribonucleases: putting the ‘Dis’ in disease
Authors: Reis Filipa P. , Pobre Vânia , Silva Inês J. , Malecki Michal , Arraiano Cecília M.
Published: June 2013

Important findings over the last years have shed new light onto the mechanistic details of RNA degradation by members of the RNase II/RNB family of exoribonucleases. Members of this family have been shown to be involved in growth, normal chloroplast biogenesis, mitotic control and cancer. Recently, different publications have linked human orthologs (Dis3 and Dis3L2) to important human diseases. This article describes the structural and biochemical characteristics of members of this family of enzymes, and the physiological implications that relate them with disease. WIREs RNA 2013, 4:607–615. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1180

This article is categorized under:

RNA Turnover and Surveillance > Turnover/Surveillance Mechanisms

RNA Turnover and Surveillance > Regulation of RNA Stability

RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease
Microsatellite marker‐based assessment of the biodiversity of native bioethanol yeast strains
Authors: Antonangelo Ana Teresa B. F. , Alonso Diego P. , Ribolla Paulo E. M. , Colombi Débora
Published: June 2013

Although many Brazilian sugar mills initiate the fermentation process by inoculating selected commercial Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains, the unsterile conditions of the industrial sugar cane ethanol fermentation process permit the constant entry of native yeast strains. Certain of those native strains are better adapted and tend to predominate over the initial strain, which may cause problems during fermentation. In the industrial fermentation process, yeast cells are often exposed to stressful environmental conditions, including prolonged cell recycling, ethanol toxicity and osmotic, oxidative or temperature stress. Little is known about these S. cerevisiae strains, although recent studies have demonstrated that heterogeneous genome architecture is exhibited by some selected well‐adapted Brazilian indigenous yeast strains that display high performance in bioethanol fermentation. In this study, 11 microsatellite markers were used to assess the genetic diversity and population structure of the native autochthonous S. cerevisiae strains in various Brazilian sugar mills. The resulting multilocus data were used to build a similarity‐based phenetic tree and to perform a Bayesian population structure analysis. The tree revealed the presence of great genetic diversity among the strains, which were arranged according to the place of origin and the collection year. The population structure analysis revealed genotypic differences among populations; in certain populations, these genotypic differences are combined to yield notably genotypically diverse individuals. The high yeast diversity observed among native S. cerevisiae strains provides new insights on the use of autochthonous high‐fitness strains with industrial characteristics as starter cultures at bioethanol plants. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adjustment disorder with anxiety in old age: Comparing prevalence and clinical management in primary care and mental health care
Authors: Arbus C. , Hergueta T. , Duburcq A. , Saleh A. , Le Guern M.-E. , Robert P. , Camus V.
Published: June 2013

Purpose:

Adjustment disorder with anxiety (AjD-A) is a common cause of severe anxiety symptoms, but little is known about its prevalence in old age.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study examined the prevalence of AjD-A in outpatients over the age of 60 who consecutively consulted 34 general practitioners and 22 psychiatrists during a 2-week period. The diagnosis of AjD-A was obtained using the optional module for diagnostic of adjustment disorder of the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI). The study procedure also explored comorbid psychiatric conditions and documented recent past stressful life events, as well as social disability and current pharmacological and non-pharmacological management.

Results:

Overall, 3651 consecutive subjects were screened (2937 in primary care and 714 in mental health care). The prevalence rate of AjD-A was 3.7% (n = 136). Up to 39% (n = 53) of AjD-A subjects had a comorbid psychiatric condition, mostly of the anxious type. The most frequently stressful life event reported to be associated with the onset of AjD-A was personal illness or health problem (29%). More than 50% of the AjD-A patients were markedly to extremely disabled by their symptoms. Compared to patients who consulted psychiatrists, patients who were seen by primary care physicians were older, had obtained lower scores at the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale, benefited less frequently from non-pharmacological management and received benzodiazepines more frequently.

Conclusions:

AjD-A appears to be a significantly disabling cause of anxiety symptoms in community dwelling elderly persons, in particular those presenting personal health related problems. Improvement of early diagnosis and non-pharmacological management of AjD-A would contribute to limit risks of benzodiazepine overuse, particularly in primary care settings.
A note on the mirror-symmetric coherent structure in plane Couette flow
Authors: Nagata M.
Published: June 2013

We note that the mirror-symmetric solution in plane Couette flow, found recently by Gibson, Halcrow & Cvitanović (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 611, 2009, pp. 107–130) and Itano & Generalis (Phys. Rev. Lett., vol. 102, 2009, p. 114501), belongs to the solution group classified as ‘ribbon’ in rotating-plane Couette flow (RPCF). It represents a subcritical (in terms of the system rotation) solution at zero rotation rate on the three-dimensional tertiary flow branch which bifurcates from thesecondstreamwise-independent flow in RPCF. The way of its appearance is similar to that of the Nagata solution (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 217, 1990, pp. 519–527), which lies on the subcritical three-dimensional tertiary flow branch bifurcating from thefirststreamwise-independent flow in RPCF.
CEOs Under Fire: The Effects of Competition from Inside Directors on Forced CEO Turnover and CEO Compensation
Authors: Mobbs Shawn
Published: June 2013

This study examines board monitoring when a credible chief executive officer (CEO) replacement is on the board. Inside directors whose talents are in greater demand externally, as reflected by their holding outside directorships, are more likely to become CEOs, and their presence is associated with greater forced CEO turnover sensitivity to accounting performance and CEO compensation sensitivity to stock performance. These results reveal that certain insiders strengthen board monitoring by serving as a readily available CEO replacement and contradict the presumption that all insiders are under CEO control. Furthermore, the results persist when accounting for the endogenous firm selection of talented inside directors.
The effect of helium impurity addition on current sheath speed in argon-operated plasma focus using a tridimensional magnetic probe
Authors: PANAHI N. , MOHAMMADI M. A. , HEDYEH S. , RAWAT R. S.
Published: June 2013

Using the tridimensional magnetic probe, the current sheath velocity at 0.25 Torr is studied in Sahand, a Filippov-type plasma focus facility. The current sheath velocity in argon-filled plasma focus with different percentages of helium impurity at different operating voltages was studied. The highest average current sheath velocity of 12.26 ± 1.51 cm μs−1 at the top of the anode in the axial phase was achieved at 17 kV. Minimum average current sheath velocity is 5.24 ± 1.18 cm μs−1 at 12 kV with 80% argon + 20% helium as a working gas. The full width at half-maximum of peaks of the magnetic probe was found to be inversely related to the current sheath velocity, i.e. smaller at higher voltages for different impurity and decreased with increasing of impurity.
Continuous wavelet transform analysis for self-similarity properties of turbulence in magnetized DC glow discharge plasma
Authors: SARMA BORNALI , CHAUHAN SOURABH S. , WHARTON A. M. , IYENGAR A. N. SEKAR
Published: June 2013

Characterization of self-similarity properties of turbulence in magnetized plasma is being carried out in DC glow discharge plasma. The time series floating potential fluctuation experimental data are acquired from the plasma by Langmuir probe. Continuous wavelet transform (CWT) analysis considering db4 mother wavelet has been applied to the experimental data and self-similarity properties are detected by evaluating the Hurst exponent from the wavelet variance plotting. From the CWT spectrum, effort is made to extract a highly correlated frequency by locating the brightest spot. Accordingly, those signals are treated for finding out correlation dimension and the Liapunov exponent so that the exact frequency responsible for the chaotic behavior could be found out.
VERB PROCESSING BY BILINGUALS IN SENTENCE CONTEXTS
Authors: Van Assche Eva , Duyck Wouter , Brysbaert Marc
Published: June 2013

Many studies on bilingual language processing have shown that lexical access is
not selective with respect to language. These studies typically used nouns as
word stimuli. The aim of the present study was to extend the previous findings
on noun processing to verb processing. In the first experiment, Dutch-English
bilinguals performed a lexical decision task in their second language and were
faster to recognize cognate verbs (e.g., Dutch-English
geven-give) presented out of context than control words. This
verb cognate facilitation effect was not modulated by verb tense. In a second
experiment, cognates and controls were presented in sentence contexts while eye
movements were recorded. In contrast to the strong cognate facilitation effects
on early and later reading time measures for nouns found in earlier studies,
cognate facilitation was only observed on a later reading time measure (i.e.,
go-past time). An interpretation of the results within current models of
bilingual language processing and lexical organization is provided.