bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating algal growth performance and water use efficiency of pilot‐scale revolving algal biofilm (RAB) culture systems
Authors: Gross Martin , Mascarenhas Vernon , Wen Zhiyou
Published: April 2015

A Revolving Algal Biofilm (RAB) growth system in which algal cells are attached to a flexible material rotating between liquid and gas phases has been developed. In this work, different configurations of RAB systems were developed at pilot‐scale by retrofitting the attachment materials to a raceway pond (2000‐L with 8.5 m2 footprint area) and a trough reservoir (150 L with 3.5 m2 footprint area). The algal growth performance and chemical composition, as well as the water evaporative loss and specific water consumption were evaluated over a period of nine months in a greenhouse environment near Boone, Iowa USA. Additionally a raceway pond was run in parallel, which served as a control. On average the raceway‐based RAB and the trough‐based RAB outperformed the control pond by 309% and 697%, respectively. A maximum productivity of 46.8 g m−2 day−1 was achieved on the trough‐based RAB system. The evaporative water loss of the RAB system was modeled based on an energy balance analysis and was experimentally validated. While the RAB system, particularly the trough‐based RAB, had higher water evaporative loss, the specific water consumption per unit of biomass produced was only 26% (raceway‐based RAB) and 7% (trough‐based RAB) of that of the control pond. Collectively, this research shows that the RAB system is an efficient algal culture system and has great potential to commercially produce microalgae with high productivity and efficient water use. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2015;112: 2040–2050. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Challenges and opportunities for microalgae‐mediated CO2 capture and biorefinery
Authors: Seth Jyoti R. , Wangikar Pramod P.
Published: April 2015

Aquacultures of microalgae are frontrunners for photosynthetic capture of CO2 from flue gases. Expedient implementation mandates coupling of microalgal CO2 capture with synthesis of fuels and organic products, so as to derive value from biomass. An integrated biorefinery complex houses a biomass growth and harvesting area and a refining zone for conversion to product(s) and separation to desired purity levels. As growth and downstream options require energy and incur loss of carbon, put together, the loop must be energy positive, carbon negative, or add substantial value. Feasibility studies can, thus, aid the choice from among the rapidly evolving technological options, many of which are still in the early phases of development. We summarize basic engineering calculations for the key steps of a biorefining loop where flue gases from a thermal power station are captured using microalgal biomass along with subsequent options for conversion to fuel or value added products. An assimilation of findings from recent laboratory and pilot‐scale experiments and life cycle analysis (LCA) studies is presented as carbon and energy yields for growth and harvesting of microalgal biomass and downstream options. Of the biorefining options, conversion to the widely studied biofuel, ethanol, and manufacture of the platform chemical, succinic acid are presented. Both processes yield specific products and do not demand high‐energy input but entail 60–70% carbon loss through fermentative respiration. Thermochemical conversions, on the other hand, have smaller carbon and energy losses but yield a mixture of products. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2015;112: 1281–1296. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Promotional Effect of Ag on the Catalytic Activity of Au for Glycerol Electrooxidation in Alkaline Medium
Authors: Garcia Amanda C. , Caliman Julia , Ferreira Eduardo B. , Tremiliosi‐Filho Germano , Linares José J.
Published: April 2015

The potential of silver as an auxiliary metal for gold in the electrochemical oxidation of glycerol in alkaline medium is studied. Three bimetallic materials (Au3Ag/C, AuAg/C, and AuAg3/C) and the corresponding monometallic reference materials (Au/C and Ag/C) are prepared by chemical reduction of their precursors with glycerol. Half‐cell measurements evidence the beneficial effect of Ag on the electrocatalytic activity of Au for glycerol oxidation owing to decreased onset potential and higher current density in chronoamperometry, with an optimum formulation of AuAg/C. These results are confirmed by the single‐cell performance of AuAg/C, which, despite having half the Au loading, has a higher open‐circuit voltage than Au/C and a similar maximum power density. The results are correlated with the structural and electronic features of these materials, which are widely discussed in other works.
Generation of Photocurrent by Visible‐Light Irradiation of Conjugated Dawson Polyoxophosphovanadotungstate–Porphyrin Copolymers
Authors: Azcarate Iban , Huo Zhaohui , Farha Rana , Goldmann Michel , Xu Hualong , Hasenknopf Bernold , Lacôte Emmanuel , Ruhlmann Laurent
Published: April 2015

Four hybrid polyoxometalate–porphyrin copolymer films were obtained by the electrooxidation of zinc octaethylporphyrin in the presence of four different Dawson‐type polyoxometalates bearing two pyridyl groups (POM(py)2) with various spacers. The POM monomers were designed around 1,3,5‐trisubstituted benzene rings. Two of the substituents of the benzene ring are linked to the pyridyl groups, and the third is connected to the POM subunit. The four monomers vary in the relative positions of the nitrogen atoms of the pyridine rings or in the distance from the carbonyl group. The monomers were fully characterized by 1H, 31P, and 13C NMR spectroscopy, electrospray mass spectrometry, IR and UV/Vis spectroscopy, and electrochemistry. The copolymers were characterized by UV/Vis spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, electrochemistry, and AFM. Their photovoltaic performance under visible light irradiation was investigated by photocurrent transient measurements under visible illumination.
Smart Soft‐Templating Synthesis of Hollow Mesoporous Bioactive Glass Spheres
Authors: Li Yunqi , Bastakoti Bishnu Prasad , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: April 2015

Hollow bioactive glass spheres with mesoporous shells were prepared by using dual soft templates, a diblock co‐polymer poly(styrene‐b‐acrylic acid) (PS‐b‐PAA) and a cationic surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). Hollow mesoporous bioactive glass (HMBG) spheres comprise the large hollow interior with vertical mesochannels in shell, which realize large uptake of drugs and their sustained release. The formation of hydroxyapatite layer on the surface of HMBG particles shows the clear evidence for promising application in bone regeneration.
Selective Targeting of the TPX2 Site of Importin‐α Using Fragment‐Based Ligand Design
Authors: Holvey Rhian S. , Valkov Eugene , Neal David , Stewart Murray , Abell Chris
Published: April 2015

Protein–protein interactions are difficult therapeutic targets, and inhibiting pathologically relevant interactions without disrupting other essential ones presents an additional challenge. Herein we report how this might be achieved for the potential anticancer target, the TPX2–importin‐α interaction. Importin‐α is a nuclear transport protein that regulates the spindle assembly protein TPX2. It has two binding sites—major and minor—to which partners bind. Most nuclear transport cargoes use the major site, whereas TPX2 binds principally to the minor site. Fragment‐based approaches were used to identify small molecules that bind importin‐α, and crystallographic studies identified a lead series that was observed to bind specifically to the minor site, representing the first ligands specific for this site. Structure‐guided synthesis informed the elaboration of these fragments to explore the source of ligand selectivity between the minor and major sites. These ligands are starting points for the development of inhibitors of this protein–protein interaction.
Evaluation of the effect of food and age on the pharmacokinetics of oral netupitant and palonosetron in healthy subjects: A randomized, open‐label, crossover phase 1 study
Authors: Calcagnile Selma , Lanzarotti Corinna , Gutacker Michaela , Jakob‐Rodamer Verena , Peter Kammerer Klaus , Timmer Wolfgang
Published: April 2015

Antiemetic treatment compliance is important to prevent chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting, a feared chemotherapy side effect. NEPA, a new oral fixed combination of netupitant, a highly selective NK1 receptor antagonist (RA), and palonosetron, a second‐generation 5‐HT3 RA, targets dual antiemetic pathways with a single dose. This study investigated the effect of food intake and age on NEPA pharmacokinetics (PK) and safety. In this open‐label, single‐center, randomized, phase 1 study, 24 adults (18−45 years) received NEPA in a fed or fasted state during the first treatment period and in the alternative state in the next treatment period. Twelve elderly subjects (≥65 years) received NEPA in a fasted state. Blood samples were taken for netupitant and palonosetron PK analysis. In the fed condition, netupitant plasma exposure increased, whereas palonosetron PK parameters were not affected. Furthermore, elderly subjects showed increased netupitant and palonosetron exposure compared with adults. All adverse events were mild/moderate, with constipation and headache the most common. Although food intake and age altered NEPA PK, dose adjustments were not needed, as netupitant and palonosetron exposure increases did not lead to safety concerns in healthy subjects.
Safety, bioavailability, and pharmacokinetics of VGX‐1027—A novel oral anti‐inflammatory drug in healthy human subjects
Authors: Lee Jessica C. , Menacherry Stanley , Diehl Malissa C. , Giffear Mary D. , White C. Jo , Juba Rob , Bagarazzi Mark L. , Muthumani Karuppiah , Boyer Jean , Agarwal Vipin , Nicoletti Ferdinando , Bart Stephen , Kim J. Joseph , Weiner David B. , Sardesai Niranjan Y.
Published: April 2015

VGX‐1027, a novel oral immune modulator, is under development for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. The safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of single (1–800 mg) and multiple (40–400 mg) oral doses were evaluated in 2 clinical studies. The doses were well tolerated up to 800 mg in a single dose and 200 mg twice daily in multiple doses. Adverse events were mild to moderate in severity with no identifiable dose‐related pattern. There were no clinically significant physical or laboratory findings. The pharmacokinetic data indicated that increases in Cmax and AUC0−inf were dose‐proportional, and AUC0−τ was approximately dose‐proportional. For the single‐dose study, median Tmax ranged from 0.5 to 2 hours and mean t1/2 ranged from 4.9 to 8.7 hours. For the multiple‐dose study, median Tmax ranged from 0.5 to 2.0 hours and mean t1/2 ranged from 7.05 to 10.05 hours. No accumulation of the drug was observed after day 1, indicating that steady‐state concentrations were attained with single and multiple dosing for 5 days. Approximately 90% of the administered dose was excreted in urine as unchanged drug.
An adaptive energy‐efficient framework for time‐constrained optical backbone networks
Authors: Sarigiannidis Panagiotis , Kakali Vasiliki , Fragakis Manos
Published: April 2015

Power management has emerged as a challenge of paramount importance having strong social and financial impact in the community. The rapid growth of information and communication technologies made backbone networks a serious energy consumer. Concurrently, backbone networking is deemed as one of the most promising areas to apply energy efficient frameworks. One of the most popular energy efficient techniques, in the context of backbone networks, is to intentionally switch off nodes and links that are monitored underutilized. Having in mind that optical technology has thoroughly dominated modern backbone networks, the function of switching off techniques entails fast operation and rigorous decision‐making because of the tremendous speed of the underlying optical media. This paper addresses this challenge by introducing a novel, adaptive, and efficient power management scheme for large‐scale backbone networks. The proposed framework exploits traffic patterns and dynamics in order to effectively switch off the set of network entities in a periodic fashion. An adaptive decision‐making algorithm is presented to maximize the network energy gains with respect to time constraints as well as QoS guarantees. The conducted simulation results reveal considerable improvements when applying the proposed framework compared with other inflexible energy efficient schemes. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A distributed adaptive landmark clustering algorithm based on mOverlay and learning automata for topology mismatch problem in unstructured peer‐to‐peer networks
Authors: Saghiri Ali Mohammad , Meybodi Mohammad Reza
Published: April 2015

Peer‐to‐peer networks are overlay networks that are built on top of communication networks that are called underlay networks. In these networks, peers are unaware of the underlying networks, so the peers choose their neighbors without considering the underlay positions, and therefore, the resultant overlay network may have mismatches with its underlying network, causing redundant end‐to‐end delay. Landmark clustering algorithms, such as mOverlay, are used to solve topology mismatch problem. In the mOverlay algorithm, the overlay network is formed by clusters in which each cluster has a landmark peer. One of the drawbacks of mOverlay is that the selected landmark peer for each cluster is fixed during the operation of the network. Because of the dynamic nature of peer‐to‐peer networks, using a non‐adaptive landmark selection algorithm may not be appropriate. In this paper, an adaptive landmark clustering algorithm obtained from the combination of mOverlay and learning automata is proposed. Learning automata are used to adaptively select appropriate landmark peers for the clusters in such a way that the total communication delay will be minimized. Simulation results have shown that the proposed algorithm outperforms the existing algorithms with respect to communication delay and average round‐trip time between peers within clusters. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Energy‐efficient multiple‐domain bidirectional scheme for G.hn applications
Authors: Gacanin Haris , Adebisi Bamidele , Ligata Amir
Published: April 2015

This paper presents an energy‐efficient relaying scheme for G.hn standard. We propose a multi‐domain bidirectional communication network with network coding at the physical layer in order to increase network coverage. The logical link control stack was also modified and supplemented with additional functionality. This reduces the power consumption in the network and enhances the performance while reducing collisions for inter‐domain network access. We consider domain selection to minimize the total energy consumption of the network and present optimal power allocation for the given QoS of each end node. Energy efficiency is evaluated in terms of transmit energy per bit for relay networks with bidirectional symmetric and asymmetric traffic flows. Simulation results show that the proposed multi‐domain bidirectional communication provides improved performance and higher energy savings than the single‐domain unidirectional network, especially in powerline communication channel, which is the worst medium of the three G.hn media. Finally, it was demonstrated that improved energy efficiency can be achieved with appropriate domain selection. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Be alert for overlooked ADHD diagnoses due to symptom differences in women
Authors: Bedrossian Louise
Published: April 2015

Historically, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder was thought to be manifested only in boys and characterized by hyperactivity. It was believed to dissipate by adolescence. Consequently, most ADHD studies used only, or predominantly, males. Although much has been learned, many still mistakenly believe it to be just a boys' disorder.
Ultra‐Fast Microwave Synthesis of 3D Flower‐Like Co9S8 Hierarchical Architectures for High‐Performance Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Yin Li , Wang Longqiang , Liu Xiaohong , Gai Yansong , Su Linghao , Qu Baohan , Gong Liangyu
Published: April 2015

Ultra‐fast microwave irradiation is used to synthesize 3D flower‐like Co9S8 hierarchical architectures. Based on time‐dependent SEM observations, a multistep splitting–growth mechanism is proposed to understand the formation of the observed structures. Moreover, the materials were used as electrodes to fabricate supercapacitors with high specific capacitances of 522, 499, 441, 436, and 397 F g–1 at current densities of 0.5, 0.8,1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 A g–1, respectively. The devices also show high charge–discharge reversibility, with an efficiency of 97.7 % after cycling 1000 times at a current density of 1.0 A g–1.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Direct C–H Arylation of Dicyanobenzenes
Authors: Ihanainen Netta E. , Kumpulainen Esa T. T. , Koskinen Ari M. P.
Published: April 2015

A direct palladium‐catalyzed C–H arylation method to synthesize biaryls from dicyanobenzenes has been developed. The reaction is selective towards C2‐arylation of 1,3‐dicyanobenzene and provides biaryls from both electron‐rich and electron‐poor aryl bromides containing para and meta substituents. A variety of functional groups are tolerated, and yields up to 83 % can be obtained. The methodology can be extended to C–H activation of other electron‐deficient benzonitriles.
When are Direct Multi‐step and Iterative Forecasts Identical?
Authors: McElroy Tucker
Published: April 2015

Although both direct multi‐step‐ahead forecasting and iterated one‐step‐ahead forecasting are two popular methods for predicting future values of a time series, it is not clear that the direct method is superior in practice, even though from a theoretical perspective it has lower mean squared error (MSE). A given model can be fitted according to either a multi‐step or a one‐step forecast error criterion, and we show here that discrepancies in performance between direct and iterative forecasting arise chiefly from the method of fitting, and is dictated by the nuances of the model's misspecification. We derive new formulas for quantifying iterative forecast MSE, and present a new approach for assessing asymptotic forecast MSE. Finally, the direct and iterative methods are compared on a retail series, which illustrates the strengths and weaknesses of each approach. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Forward Rates, Monetary Policy and the Economic Cycle
Authors: Ielpo Florian
Published: April 2015

The short end of the yield curve incorporates essential information to forecast central banks' decisions, but in a biased manner. This article proposes a new method to forecast the Fed and the European Central Bank's decision rate by correcting the swap rates for their cyclical economic premium, using an affine term structure model. The corrected yields offer a higher out‐of‐sample forecasting power than the yields themselves. They also deliver forecasts that are either comparable or better than those obtained with a factor‐augmented vector autoregressive model, underlining the fact that yields are likely to contain at least as much information regarding monetary policy as a dataset composed of economic data series. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Statistical Analysis of the Effect of the Temperature and Inlet Humidities on the Parameters of a PEMFC Model
Authors: Giner‐Sanz J. J. , Ortega E. M. , Pérez‐Herranz V.
Published: April 2015

An individual PEM fuel cell 6‐parameter mechanistic model was developed. In parallel, experimental polarization curves were obtained at different temperature and inlet gas humidities conditions. The 6 model parameters were determined by fitting the semi empirical model to the experimental curve using a non linear regression method. Finally, a statistical analysis was carried out in order to determine which operating conditions (temperature and inlet humidities) have a significant effect on which model parameters. A black box model was built in order to relate the model parameter values to the significant operating conditions for each one of them. The obtained model was able to satisfactory reproduce the experimental behaviour of the system at low current densities.
Underground CO2 storage: demonstrating regulatory conformance by convergence of history‐matched modeled and observed CO2 plume behavior using Sleipner time‐lapse seismics
Authors: Chadwick R. Andrew , Noy David J.
Published: April 2015

One of the three key regulatory requirements in Europe for transfer of storage site liability is to demonstrate conformity between predictive models of reservoir performance and monitoring observations. This is a challenging requirement because a perfect and unique match between observed and modeled behavior is near impossible to achieve. This study takes the time‐lapse seismic monitoring data from the Sleipner storage operation to demonstrate that as more seismic data becomes available with time, predictive models can be matched more accurately to observations and become more reliable predictors of future performance. Six simple performance measures were defined: plume footprint area, maximum lateral migration distance of CO2 from the injection point, area of CO2 accumulation trapped at top reservoir, volume of CO2 accumulation trapped at top reservoir, area of all CO2 layers summed, and spreading co‐efficient. Model scenarios were developed to predict plume migration up to 2008. Scenarios were developed for 1996 (baseline), 2001, and 2006 conditions, with models constrained by the information available at those times, and compared with monitoring datasets obtained up to 2008. The 1996 predictive range did generally encompass the future observed plume behavior, but with such a wide range of uncertainty as to render it of only marginal practical use. The 2001 predictions (which used the 1999 and 2001 seismic monitoring datasets) had a much lower uncertainty range, with the 2006 uncertainties somewhat lower again. There are still deficiencies in the actual quality of match but a robust convergence, with time, of predicted and observed models is clearly demonstrated. We propose modeling‐monitoring convergence as a generic approach to demonstrating conformance. © 2015 British Geological Survey. Greenhouse Gases: Science and Technology published by Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Resection margins in oral cancer surgery: Room for improvement
Authors: Smits Roeland W.H. , Koljenović Senada , Hardillo Jose A. , ten Hove Ivo , Meeuwis Cees A. , Sewnaik Aniel , Dronkers Emilie A.C. , Bakker Schut Tom C. , Langeveld Ton P.M. , Molenaar Jan , Hegt V. Noordhoek , Puppels Gerwin J. , Baatenburg de Jong Robert J.
Published: April 2015

The purpose of this review was to identify publications on resection margins in oral cancer surgery and compare these with the results from 2 Dutch academic medical centers. Eight publications were considered relevant for this study, reporting 30% to 65% inadequate resection margins (ie, positive and close margins), compared to 85% in Dutch centers. However, clinical outcome in terms of overall survival and recurrence seemed comparable. The misleading difference is caused by lack of unanimous margin definition and differences in surgicopathological approaches. This prevents comparison between the centers. Data from Dutch centers showed that inadequate resection margins have a significantly negative effect on local recurrence, regional recurrence, distant metastasis, and overall survival. These results confirm the need for improvement in oral cancer surgery. We underline the need for consistent protocols and optimization of frozen section procedures. We comment on development of optical techniques for intraoperative assessment of resection margins. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E2197–E2203, 2016
Relationship between CO2 laser–induced artifact and glottic cancer surgical margins at variable power doses
Authors: Buchanan Malcolm A. , Coleman Hedley G. , Daley James , Digges James , Sandler Mark , Riffat Faruque , Palme Carsten E.
Published: April 2015

Background

The carbon dioxide laser can induce thermal cytologic artifacts at the margin of early glottic squamous cell carcinoma histologic specimens, which makes assessment of the margin difficult. This study assesses and correlates the depth of laser‐induced thermal artifact with laser power rating.

Methods

The surgical margins of 30 patients with early glottic squamous cell carcinomas who underwent laser resection were reanalyzed retrospectively.

Results

Thermal damage consisted of collagen denaturation within the vocal cord lamina propria and vocalis muscle, and epithelial structural changes. There was a decrease in depth of tissue artifact with increased power rating (p > .05). The average depth of thermal damage was 380.83 ± 178.79 μm.

Conclusion

The laser causes less thermal damage at higher power, presumably because of the increased speed of cutting and reduced contact time with surrounding cells. Knowledge of the depth of thermal artifact is important surgically when ensuring the cancer is excised with sufficient oncologic margin. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E712–E716, 2016
On the horizon: Optical imaging for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: de Boer Esther , Moore Lindsay S. , Warram Jason M. , Huang Conway C. , Brandwein–Gensler Margaret S. , van Dam Gooitzen M. , Rosenthal Eben L. , Schmalbach Cecelia E.
Published: April 2015

Background

Surgical resection with negative margins remains the standard of care for high‐risk cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). However, surgical management is often limited by poor intraoperative tumor visualization and inability to detect occult nodal metastasis. The inability to intraoperatively detect microscopic disease can lead to additional surgery, tumor recurrence, and decreased survival.

Methods

A comprehensive literature review was conducted to identify studies incorporating optical imaging technology in the management of cutaneous SCC (January 1, 2000–December 1, 2014).

Results

Several innovative optical imaging techniques, Raman spectroscopy, confocal microscopy, and fluorescence imaging, have been developed for intraoperative surgical guidance. Fifty‐seven studies review the ability of these techniques to improve cutaneous SCC localization at the gross and microscopic level.

Conclusion

Significant advances have been achieved with real‐time optical imaging strategies for intraoperative cutaneous SCC margin assessment and tumor detection. Optical imaging holds promise in improving the percentage of negative surgical margins and in the early detection of micrometastatic disease. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E2204–E2213, 2016
Effect of Hashimoto thyroiditis on low‐dose radioactive‐iodine remnant ablation
Authors: Kwon Hyungju , Choi June Young , Moon Jae Hoon , Park Hyo Jin , Lee Won Woo , Lee Kyu Eun
Published: April 2015

Background

Radioactive‐iodine remnant ablation is an integral part of the papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) treatment. Although a minimum dose is usually recommended, there is controversy as to whether the low‐dose (1100 MBq) radioactive‐iodine remnant ablation is adequate for selected patients.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 691 patients. Patients with no remnant thyroid on the follow‐up whole body scan and low stimulated thyroglobulin (sTg) level (<2.0 ng/mL) were deemed as successful treatment cases.

Results

Initial low‐dose radioactive‐iodine remnant ablation was successful in 431 patients (62.3%). Multivariate analysis demonstrated a negative correlation between successful radioactive‐iodine remnant ablation and coexisting Hashimoto thyroiditis based on histopathology diagnosis (odds ratio [OR] = 3.23; p < .001) as well as elevated preablation sTg (OR = 1.24; p < .001).

Conclusion

Our data suggest that coexisting Hashimoto thyroiditis and elevated sTg are negative predictive factors for successful low‐dose radioactive‐iodine remnant ablation treatment. An appropriate risk‐adjusted approach may improve the efficacy of radioactive‐iodine remnant ablation treatment. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E730–E735, 2016
Sialoblastoma of the parotid gland in a 13‐year‐old girl with multiple recurrences and long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Saravakos Panagiotis , Hartwein Joerg , Fayyazi Afshin
Published: April 2015

Background

Sialoblastoma is an extremely rare congenital salivary gland tumor of epithelial origin. It is usually localized in the parotid or submandibular gland and presents primarily at birth or in early childhood.

Methods

We report a case of a 13‐year‐old girl with a sialoblastoma of the parotid gland presenting as an asymptomatic painless mass.

Results

The patient showed multiple recurrences and, based on the histopathological finding of facial nerve infiltration, was treated surgically with total parotidectomy and facial nerve reconstruction.

Conclusion

Because of the rare occurrence of sialoblastoma, there is no evidence‐based treatment of choice. The treatment should be individualized, taking into consideration the patient's age, the high locoregional recurrence rate, the local aggressive characteristics, and the potential metastatic activity of this rare tumor. A close follow‐up of the patient is strongly recommended. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E13–E15, 2016
Nodular fasciitis of the tongue
Authors: Celentano Antonio , Mascolo Massimo , De Rosa Gaetano , Mignogna Michele Davide
Published: April 2015

Background

Nodular fasciitis is a non‐neoplastic proliferation within the subcutaneous tissue and the deep fascia of the fibroblasts, probably of a reactive nature characterized by apparent infiltration of the connective tissues by a mitotically active spindle cell lesion. Nodular fasciitis in the head/neck region is rarely found and only 2 previous cases affecting the tongue have been reported.

Methods and Results

The purpose of this study was for us to report a very rare case of a 67‐year‐old man with a history of a 3‐month subepithelial asymptomatic nodule of the tongue tip with an ulcerated surface. An excisional biopsy of the mass was performed with 0.5‐mm surgical margins.

Conclusion

The clinical and histological features of nodular fasciitis may mimic a head and neck malignancy, but it is often misdiagnosed as a malignant mesenchymal neoplasm. Even if it is a rare entity, nodular fasciitis should be considered in cases of rapidly growing masses of the head and neck region. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E29–E31, 2016
Regulation of Osteoblast Migration Involving Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor‐kappa B (RANK) Signaling
Authors: Golden Diana , Saria Elizabeth A. , Hansen Marc F.
Published: April 2015

Bone remodeling requires osteoclast activation, resorption, and reversal, prior to osteoblast migration into the bone pit. The Receptor Activator of NF‐κB (RANK) signaling pathway plays an important role in bone remodeling. Two components of the RANK signaling pathway, RANK Ligand (RANKL) and the decoy receptor Osteoprotegerin (OPG), are expressed predominantly on the surface of osteoblasts, while RANK is principally expressed on the surface of osteoclasts. However, RANK has also been reported to be expressed on the surface of osteoblasts and osteosarcoma tumor cells. Treatment with soluble RANKL (sRANKL) of both normal osteoblasts and osteosarcoma tumor cells activated phosphorylation of ERK, p38MAPK, Akt, and p65NF‐κB. However, modified Boyden chamber assays and wound repair assays showed differential response to sRANKL‐induced chemotactic migration in normal osteoblasts and osteosarcoma tumor cells. In contrast to previously published results, both normal osteoblasts and osteosarcoma tumor cells responded to sRANKL‐induced chemotactic migration but the normal osteoblasts did so only in the presence of an ERK pathway inhibitor. For both normal and tumor cells, the chemotactic response could be blocked by inhibiting the PI3K/Akt or p65NF‐κBpathway. Response to sRANKL in normal and tumor cells suggests a role for RANK/ERK‐mediated signaling in normal osteoblasts chemotactic migration during bone remodeling that is altered or lost during osteosarcoma tumorigenesis. J. Cell. Physiol. 230: 2951–2960, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ephrin reverse signaling mediates palatal fusion and epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition independently of tgfß3
Authors: Serrano Maria J. , Liu Jingpeng , Svoboda Kathy K.H. , Nawshad Ali , Benson M. Douglas
Published: April 2015

The mammalian secondary palate forms from shelves of epithelia‐covered mesenchyme that meet at midline and fuse. The midline epithelial seam (MES) is thought to degrade by apoptosis, epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), or both. Failure to degrade the MES blocks fusion and causes cleft palate. It was previously thought that transforming growth factor ß3 (Tgfß3) is required to initiate fusion. Members of the Eph tyrosine kinase receptor family and their membrane‐bound ephrin ligands are expressed on the MES. We demonstrated that treatment of mouse palates with recombinant EphB2/Fc to activate ephrin reverse signaling (where the ephrin acts as a receptor and transduces signals from its cytodomain) was sufficient to cause mouse palatal fusion when Tgfß3 signaling was blocked by an antibody against Tgfß3 or by an inhibitor of the TgfßrI serine/threonine receptor kinase. Cultured palatal epithelial cells traded their expression of epithelial cell markers for that of mesenchymal cells and became motile after treatment with EphB2/Fc. They concurrently increased their expression of the EMT‐associated transcription factors Snail, Sip1, and Twist1. EphB2/Fc did not cause apoptosis in these cells. These data reveal that ephrin reverse signaling directs palatal fusion in mammals through a mechanism that involves EMT but not apoptosis and activates a gene expression program not previously associated with ephrin reverse signaling. J. Cell. Physiol. 9999: 1–12, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Cell. Physiol. 230: 2961–2972, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Anti Proliferative and Pro Apoptotic Effects of Flavonoid Quercetin Are Mediated by CB1 Receptor in Human Colon Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Refolo Maria Grazia , D'Alessandro Rosalba , Malerba Natascia , Laezza Chiara , Bifulco Maurizio , Messa Caterina , Caruso Maria Gabriella , Notarnicola Maria , Tutino Valeria
Published: April 2015

Quercetin, the major constituent of flavonoid and widely present in fruits and vegetables, is an attractive compound for cancer prevention due to its beneficial anti proliferative effects, showing a crucial role in the regulation of apoptosis and cell cycle signaling. In vitro studies have demonstrated that quercetin specifically influences colon cancer cell proliferation. Our experiments, using human colon adenocarcinoma cells, confirmed the anti proliferative effect of quercetin and gave intriguing new insight in to the knowledge of the mechanisms involved. We observed a significant increase in the expression of the endocannabinoids receptor (CB1‐R) after quercetin treatment. CB1‐R can be considered an estrogen responsive receptor and quercetin, having a structure similar to that of the estrogens, can interact with CB1‐R leading to the regulation of cell growth. In order to clarify the contribution of the CB1‐R to the quercetin action, we investigated some of the principal molecular pathways that are inhibited or activated by this natural compound. In particular we detected the inhibition of the major survival signals like the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and an induction of the pro apoptotic JNK/JUN pathways. Interestingly, the metabolism of β‐catenin was modified by flavonoid both directly and through activated CB1‐R. In all the experiments done, the quercetin action has proven to be reinforced by anandamide (Met‐F‐AEA), a CB1‐R agonist, and partially counteracted by SR141716, a CB1‐R antagonist. These findings open new perspectives for anticancer therapeutic strategies. J. Cell. Physiol. 230: 2973–2980, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Perfect Graphs with No Balanced Skew‐Partition are 2‐Clique‐Colorable
Authors: Penev Irena
Published: April 2015

A graph G is perfect if for all induced subgraphs H of G, . A graph G is Berge if neither G nor its complement contains an induced odd cycle of length at least five. The Strong Perfect Graph Theorem [9] states that a graph is perfect if and only if it is Berge. The Strong Perfect Graph Theorem was obtained as a consequence of a decomposition theorem for Berge graphs [M. Chudnovsky, Berge trigraphs and their applications, PhD thesis, Princeton University, 2003; M. Chudnovsky, N. Robertson, P. Seymour, and R. Thomas, The strong perfect graph theorem, Ann Math 164 (2006), 51–229.], and one of the decompositions in this decomposition theorem was the “balanced skew‐partition.” A clique‐coloring of a graph G is an assignment of colors to the vertices of G in such a way that no inclusion‐wise maximal clique of G of size at least two is monochromatic, and the clique‐chromatic number of G, denoted by , is the smallest number of colors needed to clique‐color G. There exist graphs of arbitrarily large clique‐chromatic number, but it is not known whether the clique‐chromatic number of perfect graphs is bounded. In this article, we prove that every perfect graph that does not admit a balanced skew‐partition is 2‐clique colorable. The main tool used in the proof is a decomposition theorem for “tame Berge trigraphs” due to Chudnovsky et al. (http://arxiv.org/abs/1308.6444).
Development of a series of novel carbon‐11 labeled PDE10A inhibitors
Authors: Stepanov Vladimir , Miura Shotaro , Takano Akihiro , Amini Nahid , Nakao Ryuji , Hasui Tomoaki , Nakashima Kosuke , Taniguchi Takahiko , Kimura Haruhide , Kuroita Takanobu , Halldin Christer
Published: April 2015

Phosphodiesterase 10A (PDE10A) is a member of the PDE family of enzymes that degrades cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). Our aim was to label a series of structurally related PDE10A inhibitors with carbon‐11 and evaluate them as potential positron emission tomography (PET) radioligands for PDE10A using nonhuman primates. The series consisted of seven compounds based on the 3‐(1H‐pyrazol‐5‐yl)pyridazin‐4(1H)‐one backbone. These compounds were selected from the initial larger library based on a number of parameters such as affinity, selectivity for hPDE10A in in vitro tests, lipophilicity, and on the results of multidrug resistance protein 1 (MDR1)‐LLCPK1 and the parallel artificial membrane permeability assays. Seven radioligands (KIT‐1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 9, and 12) were radiolabeled with carbon‐11 employing O‐methylation on the hydroxyl moiety using [11C]methyl triflate. In vivo examination of each radioligand was performed using PET in rhesus monkeys; analysis of radiometabolites in plasma also was conducted using HPLC. All seven radioligands were labeled with high (>90%) incorporation of [11C]methyl triflate into their appropriate precursors and with high specific radioactivity. Carbon‐11 labeled KIT‐5 and KIT‐6 showed high accumulation in the striatum, consistent with the known anatomical distribution of PDE10A in brain, accompanied by fast washout and high specific binding ratio. In particular [11C]KIT‐6, named [11C]T‐773, is a promising PET tool for further examination of PDE10A in human brain.
Control of citrus molds using bioactive coatings incorporated with fungal chitosan/plant extracts composite
Authors: Tayel Ahmed A , Moussa Shaaban H , Salem Mohammed F , Mazrou Khaled E , El‐Tras Wael F
Published: April 2015

BACKGROUND

The ongoing postharvest loss in citrus fruits, due to fungal infection, is a chronic economic and agricultural problem. Most of citrus damage is caused by Penicillium spp., e.g. green mold (P. digitatum) and blue mold (P. italicum). Fungal chitosan, from Mucor rouxii, and plant extracts from cress seeds, olive leaves, pomegranate peels and senna pods, were evaluated as antifungal agents against the phytopathogenic fungi, P. digitatum and P. italicum, using in vitro qualitative and quantitative assays.

RESULTS

All natural agents tested exhibited potent antifungal activity; the most powerful agent was cress (Lepidium sativum) seed extract, followed by pomegranate (Punica granatum) peel extract. Fungal chitosan also had a remarkable fungicidal potentiality using both evaluation assays. Penicillium digitatum was generally more resistant than P. italicum toward all examined agents. The incorporation of each individual natural agent in coating material resulted in a great reduction in fungal growth and viability. The addition of chitosan combined with cress and pomegranate extracts, to the coating materials, prevented coated citrus fruit from decay by green and blue mold for a 2‐week storage period.

CONCLUSION

Natural derivatives could be recommended as powerful antifungal alternatives to protect citrus fruits from postharvest fungal decay. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Sensory and nutritional attributes of pomegranate juices extracted from separated arils and pressed whole fruits
Authors: Mayuoni Kirshenbaum Lina , Benjamin Ofir , Porat Ron
Published: April 2015

BACKGROUND

The present study aimed to compare the sensory and nutritional attributes of ‘Wonderful’ pomegranate juices extracted from separated arils with those from pressed whole fruits.

RESULTS

Five different sensory tests were conducted to evaluate the flavor quality of ‘Wonderful’ pomegranate juices. Consumer acceptance tests revealed that juice from separated arils achieved significantly higher likability scores than that from whole pressed fruits. Furthermore, preference tests revealed that 84% of the tasters preferred the juice extracted from separated arils whereas only 16% preferred the juice from whole pressed fruits. Sensory discrimination tests (triangle tests) revealed that tasters significantly distinguished between the two juices at P ≤ 0.01. Descriptive tests by a trained panel and sensory analysis with an electronic tongue demonstrated that juice from whole pressed fruits was more astringent and had a stronger aftertaste than juice from separated arils. Juice from pressed whole fruits contained significantly higher levels of phenols and hydrolysable tannins, which led to higher astringency.

CONCLUSIONS

Pomegranate juice extracted from separated arils was less astringent and more preferred by tasters than juice from whole pressed fruits. Nonetheless, juice from separated arils has lower nutritional benefits. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Tree age, fruit size and storage conditions affect levels of ascorbic acid, total phenolic concentrations and total antioxidant activity of ‘Kinnow’ mandarin juice
Authors: Khalid Samina , Malik Aman U , Khan Ahmad S , Shahid Muhammad , Shafique Muhammad
Published: April 2015

BACKGROUND

Bioactive compounds (ascorbic acid, total phenolics and total antioxidants) are important constituents of citrus fruit juice; however, information with regard to their concentrations and changes in relation to tree age and storage conditions is limited. ‘Kinnow’ (Citrus nobilis Lour × Citrus deliciosa Tenora) mandarin juice from fruit of three tree ages (6, 18 and 35 years old) and fruit sizes (large, medium and small) were examined for their bioactive compounds during 7 days under ambient storage conditions (20 ± 2 °C and 60–65% relative humidity (RH)) and during 60 days under cold storage (4 ± 1 °C and 75–80% RH) conditions.

RESULTS

Under ambient conditions, a reduction in total phenolic concentrations (TPC) and in total antioxidant activity (TAA) was found for the juice from all tree ages and fruit sizes. Overall, fruit from 18‐year‐old trees had higher mean TPC (95.86 µg mL−1) and TAA (93.68 mg L−1), as compared to 6 and 35‐year‐old trees. Likewise, in cold storage, TAA decreased in all fruit size groups from 18 and 35‐year‐old trees. In all tree age and fruit size groups, TPC decreased initially during 15 days of cold storage and then increased gradually with increase in storage duration. Ascorbic acid concentrations showed an increasing trend in all fruit size groups from 35‐year‐old trees. Overall, during cold storage, fruit from 18‐year‐old trees maintained higher mean ascorbic acid (33.05 mg 100 mL−1) concentrations, whereas fruit from 6‐year‐old trees had higher TAA (153.1 mg L−1) and TPC (115.1 µg mL−1). Large‐sized fruit had higher ascorbic acid (32.08 mg 100 mL−1) concentrations and TAA (157.5 mg L−1).

CONCLUSION

Fruit from 18‐year‐old trees maintained higher TPC and TAA under ambient storage conditions, whereas fruit from 6‐year‐old trees maintained higher TPC and TAA during cold storage. Small‐sized fruit had higher TPC after ambient temperature storage, whereas large fruit size showed higher ascorbic acid concentrations and TAA after cold storage. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Unimolecular Rate Constants for the HF and HCl Elimination Reactions from Chemically Activated CF2ClSH
Authors: Rossabi Samuel M. , Smith Kylie C. , Heard George L. , Holmes Bert E.
Published: April 2015

Chemically activated CF3SH, CFCl2SH, and CF2ClSH were formed through combination of SH and CF3, CFCl2, and CF2Cl radicals, respectively. The SH radical was prepared by abstraction of an H‐atom from H2S by the halocarbon radical produced during photolysis of (CF3)2C=O, (CFCl2)2C=O, or (CF2Cl)2C=O. 1,2‐HX (X = F, Cl) elimination reactions were observed from CF3SH, CFCl2SH, and CF2ClSH with products detected by GC‐MS. The combination reaction of CF2Cl radicals with SH radicals prepared CF2ClSH molecules with approximately 318 kJ/mol of internal energy. The experimental rate constants for elimination of HCl and HF from CF2ClSH were 3 ± 3 × 1010 and 2 ± 1 × 109 s−1, respectively. Comparison to Rice–Ramsperger–Kassel–Marcus (RRKM) calculated rate constants assigned the threshold energies as 171 ± 12 and 205 ± 12 kJ/mol for the unimolecular elimination of HCl and HF, respectively. Theoretical calculations using the B3PW91, MP2, and M062X methods with the 6311+G(2d,p) and 6‐31G(d',p') basis sets established that for a specific method the threshold energies differ by only 4 kJ/mol between the two different basis sets. There was wide variation among the three methods, but the M062X approach appeared to give threshold energies closest to the experimental values. Chemically activated CF3SH and CFCl2SH were also prepared with about 318 kcal mol−1 of internal energy, and the HX (X = F, Cl) elimination reactions were observed. Only HCl loss was detected from CFCl2SH, but the rate was too fast to measure with our kinetic method; however, based on our detection limit the HF elimination channel is at least 50 times slower.