bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Missing in Asynchronicity: A Kalman‐em Approach for Multivariate Realized Covariance Estimation
Authors: Corsi Fulvio , Peluso Stefano , Audrino Francesco
Published: January 2014

Motivated by the need for a positive‐semidefinite estimator of multivariate realized covariance matrices, we model noisy and asynchronous ultra‐high‐frequency asset prices in a state‐space framework with missing data. We then estimate the covariance matrix of the latent states through a Kalman smoother and expectation maximization (KEM) algorithm. Iterating between the two EM steps, we obtain a covariance matrix estimate which is robust to both asynchronicity and microstructure noise, and positive‐semidefinite by construction. We show the performance of the KEM estimator using extensive Monte Carlo simulations that mimic the liquidity and market microstructure characteristics of the S&P 500 universe as well as in a high‐dimensional application on US stocks. KEM provides very accurate covariance matrix estimates and significantly outperforms alternative approaches recently introduced in the literature. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Trabecular Bone Score: A Noninvasive Analytical Method Based Upon the DXA Image
Authors: Silva Barbara C , Leslie William D , Resch Heinrich , Lamy Olivier , Lesnyak Olga , Binkley Neil , McCloskey Eugene V , Kanis John A , Bilezikian John P
Published: January 2014

The trabecular bone score (TBS) is a gray-level textural metric that can be extracted from the two-dimensional lumbar spine dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) image. TBS is related to bone microarchitecture and provides skeletal information that is not captured from the standard bone mineral density (BMD) measurement. Based on experimental variograms of the projected DXA image, TBS has the potential to discern differences between DXA scans that show similar BMD measurements. An elevated TBS value correlates with better skeletal microstructure; a low TBS value correlates with weaker skeletal microstructure. Lumbar spine TBS has been evaluated in cross-sectional and longitudinal studies. The following conclusions are based upon publications reviewed in this article: 1) TBS gives lower values in postmenopausal women and in men with previous fragility fractures than their nonfractured counterparts; 2) TBS is complementary to data available by lumbar spine DXA measurements; 3) TBS results are lower in women who have sustained a fragility fracture but in whom DXA does not indicate osteoporosis or even osteopenia; 4) TBS predicts fracture risk as well as lumbar spine BMD measurements in postmenopausal women; 5) efficacious therapies for osteoporosis differ in the extent to which they influence the TBS; 6) TBS is associated with fracture risk in individuals with conditions related to reduced bone mass or bone quality. Based on these data, lumbar spine TBS holds promise as an emerging technology that could well become a valuable clinical tool in the diagnosis of osteoporosis and in fracture risk assessment. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
First Mouse Model for Combined Osteogenesis Imperfecta and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
Authors: Chen Frieda , Guo Ruolin , Itoh Shousaku , Moreno Luisa , Rosenthal Esther , Zappitelli Tanya , Zirngibl Ralph A , Flenniken Ann , Cole William , Grynpas Marc , Osborne Lucy R , Vogel Wolfgang , Adamson Lee , Rossant Janet , Aubin Jane E
Published: January 2014

By using a genome-wide N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU)-induced dominant mutagenesis screen in mice, a founder with low bone mineral density (BMD) was identified. Mapping and sequencing revealed a T to C transition in a splice donor of the collagen alpha1 type I (Col1a1) gene, resulting in the skipping of exon 9 and a predicted 18-amino acid deletion within the N-terminal region of the triple helical domain of Col1a1. Col1a1Jrt/+ mice were smaller in size, had lower BMD associated with decreased bone volume/tissue volume (BV/TV) and reduced trabecular number, and furthermore exhibited mechanically weak, brittle, fracture-prone bones, a hallmark of osteogenesis imperfecta (OI). Several markers of osteoblast differentiation were upregulated in mutant bone, and histomorphometry showed that the proportion of trabecular bone surfaces covered by activated osteoblasts (Ob.S/BS and N.Ob/BS) was elevated, but bone surfaces undergoing resorption (Oc.S/BS and N.Oc/BS) were not. The number of bone marrow stromal osteoprogenitors (CFU-ALP) was unaffected, but mineralization was decreased in cultures from young Col1a1Jrt/+ versus +/+ mice. Total collagen and type I collagen content of matrices deposited by Col1a1Jrt/+ dermal fibroblasts in culture was ∼40% and 30%, respectively, that of +/+ cells, suggesting that mutant collagen chains exerted a dominant negative effect on type I collagen biosynthesis. Mutant collagen fibrils were also markedly smaller in diameter than +/+ fibrils in bone, tendon, and extracellular matrices deposited by dermal fibroblasts in vitro. Col1a1Jrt/+ mice also exhibited traits associated with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS): Their skin had reduced tensile properties, tail tendon appeared more frayed, and a third of the young adult mice had noticeable curvature of the spine. Col1a1Jrt/+ is the first reported model of combined OI/EDS and will be useful for exploring aspects of OI and EDS pathophysiology and treatment. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Clinical and Radiographic Findings in Adults With Persistent Hypophosphatasemia
Authors: McKiernan Fergus Eoin , Berg Richard L , Fuehrer Jay
Published: January 2014

A serum alkaline phosphatase value below the age-adjusted lower limits of normal (hypophosphatasemia) is uncommonly encountered in clinical practice. The electronic and paper medical records of 885,165 patients treated between 2002 and 2012 at a large, rural, multispecialty health clinic were interrogated to estimate the prevalence and characterize the clinical and radiographic findings of adults whose serum alkaline phosphatase was almost always low (persistent hypophosphatasemia). We hypothesized that some of these patients might harbor previously unrecognized hypophosphatasia, a rare, inherited condition of impaired mineralization of bones and teeth. Persistent hypophosphatasemia (serum alkaline phosphatase ≤30 IU/L) was found in 1 of 1544 adult patients. These adult patients had more crystalline arthritis, orthopedic surgery, chondrocalcinosis, calcific periarthritis, enthesopathy, and diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis than a general adult patient population. A gender effect was observed. The clinical and radiographic findings of adult patients with persistent hypophosphatasemia resemble those of the adult form of hypophosphatasia. Clinicians should take notice of persistent hypophosphatasemia, consider the diagnosis of hypophosphatasia, and be cautious when considering potent anti-remodeling therapy in these adults. This population warrants further evaluation. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Dairy Food Intake, Peripheral Bone Structure, and Muscle Mass in Elderly Ambulatory Women
Authors: Radavelli-Bagatini Simone , Zhu Kun , Lewis Joshua R , Prince Richard L
Published: January 2014

Previous studies suggest that dairy intake may be associated with reduced bone and muscle loss with aging, but there are limited data in the very old. We evaluated the association between intake of dairy foods and peripheral bone structure and muscle mass in 564 elderly women aged 80 to 92 (mean 84.7) years, who were participants of the Calcium Intake Fracture Outcome Study/CAIFOS Aged Extension Study (CAIFOS/CARES) cohort and attended the 10-year follow-up. Assessments included dairy consumption (milk, yogurt, and cheese) by a validated food frequency questionnaire, 15% tibia bone mass, area and volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) by peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT), and appendicular bone and skeletal muscle mass by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Women were categorized according to tertiles of dairy intake: first tertile (≤1.5 servings/d), second tertile (1.5 to 2.2 servings/d) and third tertile (≥2.2 servings/d). Controlling for confounding factors, pQCT assessment at the 15% tibia showed that compared with those in the first tertile of dairy intake, women in the third tertile had 5.7% greater total bone mass (p = 0.005), principally because of an increase in cortical and subcortical bone mass (5.9%, p = 0.050), resulting in a 6.2% increase in total vBMD (p = 0.013). Trabecular but not cortical and subcortical vBMD was also higher (7.8%, p = 0.044). DXA assessment showed that women in the third tertile of dairy intake had greater appendicular bone mass (7.1%, p = 0.007) and skeletal muscle mass (3.3%, p = 0.014) compared with tertile 1. The associations with bone measures were dependent on dairy protein and calcium intakes, whereas the association with appendicular muscle mass was not totally dependent on dairy protein intake. Our results suggest a positive association of dairy intake with appendicular bone mineralization and muscle mass in elderly women. Because many fractures in this age group are of the appendicular skeleton often associated with falls, dairy intake may be a modifiable lifestyle factor contributing to healthy aging. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Bisphosphonates Inhibit Osteosarcoma-Mediated Osteolysis Via Attenuation of Tumor Expression of MCP-1 and RANKL
Authors: Ohba Tetsuro , Cole Heather A , Cates Justin MM , Slosky David A , Haro Hirotaka , Ando Takashi , Schwartz Herbert S , Schoenecker Jonathan G
Published: January 2014

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary malignant tumor of bone and accounts for around 50% of all primary skeletal malignancies. In addition to novel chemotherapies, there is a need for adjuvant therapies designed to inhibit osteosarcoma proliferation and tumor-induced osteolysis to attenuate tumor expansion and metastasis. As such, studies on the efficacy of bisphosphonates on human osteosarcoma are planned after feasibility studies determined that the bisphosphonate zoledronic acid (ZOL) can be safely combined with conventional chemotherapy. However, the molecular mechanisms responsible for, and means of inhibiting, osteosarcoma-induced osteolysis are largely unknown. We establish that osteosarcoma growth directly correlates with tumor-induced osteolysis and activation of osteoclasts in vivo. In vitro, tumor cells were determined to expresses surface, but not soluble, receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) and stimulated osteoclastogenesis in a manner directly proportional to their malignant potential. In addition, an aggressive osteosarcoma cell line was shown to secrete monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), resulting in robust monocyte migration. Because MCP-1 is a key cytokine for monocyte recruitment and surface-bound RANKL strongly supports local osteoclastogenesis, we suggest that high levels of these signaling molecules are associated with the aggressive potential of osteosarcoma. Consistent with these findings, abundant expression of RANKL/MCP-1 was observed in tumor in vivo, and MCP-1 plasma levels strongly correlated with tumor progression and osteolysis. ZOL administration directly attenuates osteosarcoma production of RANKL/MCP-1, reducing tumor-induced bone destruction. In vivo, these findings also correlated with significant reduction in osteosarcoma growth. ZOL attenuates tumor-induced osteolysis, not only through direct inhibition of osteoclasts, but also through direct actions on tumor expression of osteoclast activators. These data provide insight regarding the effect of ZOL on osteosarcoma essential for designing the planned upcoming prospective randomized trials to determine the efficacy of bisphosphonates on osteosarcoma in humans. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Emodin Regulates Bone Remodeling by Inhibiting Osteoclastogenesis and Stimulating Osteoblast Formation
Authors: Kim Ju-Young , Cheon Yoon-Hee , Kwak Sung Chul , Baek Jong Min , Yoon Kwon-Ha , Lee Myeung Su , Oh Jaemin
Published: January 2014

Bone remodeling, a physiological process in which new bone is formed by osteoblasts and the preexisting bone matrix is resorbed by osteoclasts, is vital for the maintenance of healthy bone tissue in adult humans. Imbalances in this process can cause various pathological conditions, including osteoporosis. Emodin, a naturally occurring anthraquinone derivative found in Asian herbal medicines, has numerous beneficial pharmacologic effects, including anticancer and antidiabetic activities. However, the effect of emodin on the regulation of osteoblast and osteoclast activity has not yet been investigated. We show here that emodin is a potential target for osteoporosis therapeutics, as treatment with this agent enhances osteoblast differentiation and bone growth and suppresses osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption. In this study, emodin suppressed receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclast differentiation of bone marrow macrophages (BMMs) and the bone-resorbing activity of mature osteoclasts by inhibiting RANKL-induced NF-κB, c-Fos, and NFATc1 expression. Emodin also increased ALP, Alizarin Red-mineralization activity, and the expression of osteoblastogenic gene markers, such as Runx2, osteocalcin (OCN), and ALP in mouse calvarial primary osteoblasts, as well as activated the p38-Runx2 pathway, which enhanced osteoblast differentiation. Moreover, mice treated with emodin showed marked attenuation of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced bone erosion and increased bone-forming activity in a mouse calvarial bone formation model based on micro-computed tomography and histologic analysis of femurs. Our findings reveal a novel function for emodin in bone remodeling, and highlight its potential for use as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of osteoporosis that promotes bone anabolic activity and inhibits osteoclast differentiation. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Effect of Nano‐support and Type of Active Metal on Reforming of CH4 with CO2
Authors: Al‐Fatesh Ahmed Sadeq , Naeem Muhammad Awais , Khan Wasim Ullah , Abasaeed Ahmed Elhag , Fakeeha Anis Hamza
Published: January 2014

Two series of Co and Ni based catalysts supported over commercial (ZrO2, CeO2, and Al2O3) nano supports were investigated for dry reforming of methane. The catalytic activity of both Co and Ni based catalysts were assessed at different reaction temperatures ranging from 500—800 °C; however, for stability the time on stream experiments were conducted at 700 °C for 6 h. Various techniques such as N2 adsorption‐desorption isotherm, temperature‐programmed reduction (H2‐TPR), temperature‐programmed desorption (CO2‐TPD), temperature‐programmed oxidation (TPO), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were applied for characterization of fresh and spent catalysts. The catalytic activity and stability tests clearly showed that the performance of catalyst is strongly dependent on type of active metal and support. Furthermore, active metal particle size and Lewis basicity are key factors which have significant influence on catalytic performance. The results indicated that Ni supported over nano ZrO2 exhibited highest activity among all tested catalysts due to its unique properties including thermal stability and reducibility. The minimum carbon deposition and thus relatively stable performance was observed in case of Co‐Al catalyst, since this catalyst has shown highest Lewis basicity.
Solvothermal Preparation and Effects of Mixed Solvent on the Properties of Copper Indium Diselenide Nanoalloys
Authors: Lin Yu‐Chen , Liu Wang‐Lin , Chu Hsiao‐Chun , Chen Tsair‐Rong , Hsu Shih‐Chieh , Chen Ching‐Hsiang
Published: January 2014

We have developed a simple solvothermal method by using solvent mixtures of ethylenediamine with ethanol and deionized water to produce the CuInSe2 nanoalloys. The phase structure, morphology, elemental composition and optical band gap (Eg) of synthesized the CuInSe2 nanoalloys were characterized by Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) and zeta potential particle sizer measurements. The factors affecting product purity in the mixed solvent are also discussed. The results showed that CuInSe2 nanoalloys with a chalcopyrite tetragonal structure were produced by adjusting the ratio of ethylenediamine to ethanol (1:2.33 by volume) and their corresponding energy band gap was found to be 1.27 eV. In addition, we prepared and coated the CuInSe2 ink on the Mo substrate by the doctor blade method to produce a compact thin film. The crystallinity and the morphology of these polycrystalline CuInSe2 films were characterized.
Relations between substrate morphological change and oxygen transfer in solid‐state fermentation (SSF) using Penicillium decumbensJUA10
Authors: Wang Lan , Liu Zhihua , Duan Yingyi , Chen Hongzhang
Published: January 2014

BACKGROUND

Substrate morphological change caused by microbial growth should affect oxygen transfer and hence solid‐state fermentation (SSF) performance. Relationships between substrate morphological change caused by fungi growth and oxygen transfer in solid‐state substrate were investigated based on porous media theory using fractal dimensions.

RESULTS

The fungi biomass and oxygen diffusion rate in solid state fermentation followed the order 85% > 75% > 65% for moisture content experiments and 0.4 cm > 1.5 cm > 4.0 cm for particle length experiments, respectively, while permeability showed the opposite trends. Oxygen diffusion rate and permeability decreased as fermentation time was varied from 12 h to 48 h, and then increased with fermentation progress, which was consistent with the fractal dimension. Results indicated that fungi biomass, oxygen diffusion rate, and substrate permeability can be effectively expressed by a fractal dimension.

CONCLUSION

Combining the kinetic model of permeability and fractal‐oxygen exponential model analysis, oxygen transfer was closely related with substrate morphological change expressed by fractal dimension in solid‐state fermentation of steam exploded rice straw using Penicillium decumbens JUA10. Thus, oxygen transfer expressed by a fractal dimension should be a more convenient way in solid‐state fermentation. © 2014 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology published by JohnWiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Mathematical modelling of ideal and non‐ideal continuous stirred tank bioreactor using simulated solution
Authors: Sarkar Santanu , Chowdhury Ranjana , Mukherjee Alakananda
Published: January 2014

BACKGROUND

Chemostats are characterized by an increase in viscosity of the reaction broth and are prone to non‐ideality. The present study is mainly focused on the identification of non‐idealities, namely dead zone and bypassing of a real chemostat or continuous stirred tank bioreactor.

RESULTS

Experimental studies were conducted in non‐reactive mode to study the hydrodynamic characteristics of a real chemostat involving Lactobacillus sp. isolated from Indian curd. The influence of change of relative viscosity on non‐ideality parameters was studied. A simulated solution of PVA having the same viscosity range as the growth medium of Lactobacillus sp. were used to understand the hydrodynamic behavior of the reactor by conducting residence time distribution (RTD) experiments in non‐reacting mode. Both steady and unsteady state analyses have been carried out with variation of the two main process parameters, namely dilution rate and substrate concentration.

CONCLUSION

A clear portrait of the comparison between non‐ideal and ideal systems has been cited here, and it was observed that the real or non‐ideal system lags behind the ideal one in many aspects. The present study adds to the knowledge of biochemically reacting systems. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Behavioral functions of stimuli signaling transitions across rich and lean schedules of reinforcement
Authors: Everly Jessica B. , Holtyn August F. , Perone Michael
Published: January 2014

On multiple fixed‐ratio schedules, pausing is extended at the start of a component ending in a small reinforcer (a lean component) but only when this component follows a component ending in a large reinforcer (a rich component). In two experiments, we assessed whether a stimulus correlated with a lean component is aversive and how its function is affected by the preceding component. In Experiment 1, pigeons responded on mixed fixed‐ratio schedules ending in large or small reinforcers. Observing responses converted the mixed schedule to a multiple one by producing a stimulus correlated with the current component. Overall, the lean stimulus did not suppress observing, suggesting that it was not sufficiently aversive. In Experiment 2, an escape procedure was used, and pigeons could convert a multiple schedule to a mixed one by pecking a key to remove the discriminative stimuli. Pigeons escaped from the lean‐schedule stimulus more than they did from the rich one. For two pigeons, this effect was enhanced when a rich component preceded the lean stimulus. The results indicate that a stimulus correlated with the leaner of two reinforcement schedules can acquire aversive functions, but observing and escape procedures may differ in their abilities to detect this effect.
Faculty development for hospitalists: Structured peer observation of teaching
Authors: Mookherjee Somnath , Monash Bradley , Wentworth Kelly L. , Sharpe Bradley A.
Published: January 2014

BACKGROUND

Hospitalists provide much of the clinical teaching in internal medicine, yet formative feedback to improve their teaching is rare.

METHODS

We developed a peer observation, assessment, and feedback program to improve attending hospitalist teaching. Participants were trained to identify 10 optimal teaching behaviors using a structured observation tool that was developed from the validated Stanford Faculty Development Program clinical teaching framework. Participants joined year‐long feedback dyads and engaged in peer observation and feedback on teaching. Pre‐ and post‐program surveys assessed confidence in teaching, performance of teaching behaviors, confidence in giving and receiving feedback, attitudes toward peer observation, and overall satisfaction with the program.

RESULTS

Twenty‐two attending hospitalists participated, averaging 2.2 years (± 2.1 years standard deviation [SD]) experience; 15 (68%) completed pre‐ and post‐program surveys. Confidence in giving feedback, receiving feedback, and teaching efficacy increased (1 = strongly disagree, 5 = strongly agree, mean ± SD): “I can accurately assess my colleagues' teaching skills,” (pre = 3.2 ± 0.9 vs post = 4.1 ± 0.6, P < 0.01), “I can give accurate feedback to my colleagues” (pre = 3.4 ± 0.6 vs post = 4.2 ± 0.6, P < 0.01), and “I am confident in my ability to teach students and residents” (pre = 3.2 ± 0.9 vs post = 3.7 ± 0.8, P = 0.026).

CONCLUSIONS

Peer observation and feedback of teaching increases hospitalist confidence in several domains that are essential for optimizing teaching. Further studies are needed to examine if educational outcomes are improved by this program. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2014;9:244–250. © 2014 Society of Hospital Medicine
Discharge before noon: An achievable hospital goal
Authors: Wertheimer Benjamin , Jacobs Ramon E. A. , Bailey Martha , Holstein Sandy , Chatfield Steven , Ohta Brenda , Horrocks Amy , Hochman Katherine
Published: January 2014

BACKGROUND

Late afternoon hospital discharges are thought to contribute to admission bottlenecks, overcrowding, and increased length of stay (LOS). In January 2012, the discharge before noon (DBN) percentage on 2 medical units was 7%, below the organizational goal of 30%.

OBJECTIVE

To sustainably achieve a DBN rate of 30% and to evaluate the effect of this intervention on observed‐to‐expected (O/E) LOS and 30‐day readmission rate.

DESIGN

Pre‐/post‐intervention retrospective analysis.

SETTING

Two acute care inpatient medical units in an urban, academic medical center.

PATIENTS

All inpatients discharged from the units.

INTERVENTION

All staff helped create a checklist of daily responsibilities at a DBN kickoff event. We initiated afternoon interdisciplinary rounds to identify next‐day DBNs and created a website for enhanced communication. We provided daily feedback on the DBN percentage, rewards for success, and real‐time opportunities for case review.

MEASUREMENTS

Calendar month DBN percentage, O/E LOS, and 30‐day readmission rate.

RESULTS

The DBN percentage increased from 11% in the 8‐month baseline period to an average of 38% over the 13‐month intervention (P = 0.0002). The average discharge time moved 1 hour and 31 minutes earlier in the day. The O/E LOS declined from 1.06 to 0.96 (P = 0.0001), and the 30‐day readmission rate declined from 14.3% to 13.1% (P = 0.1902).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates that increased DBN is an achievable and sustainable goal for hospitals. Future work will allow for better understanding of the full effects of such an intervention on patient outcomes and hospital metrics. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2014;9:210–214. © 2014 Society of Hospital Medicine
Involvement of cdc42/Rho kinase in ApoA‐I‐mediated cholesterol efflux through interaction between cytosolic lipid‐protein particles and microtubules in rat astrocytes
Authors: Kheirollah Alireza , Nagayasu Yuko , Ueda Hiroshi , Yokoyama Shinji , Michikawa Makoto , Ito Jin‐ichi
Published: January 2014

Activation of cdc42 reportedly enhances apoA‐I‐mediated cholesterol release through ATP‐binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1). We examined the involvement of cdc42 and Rho kinase in intracellular cholesterol transport for release of cholesterol after the interaction between apoA‐I and ABCA1 in astrocytes. Exogenously added apoA‐I increased the GTP‐bound form of cdc42 and enhanced Rho kinase activity in rat astrocytes. Suppression of ABCA1 expression by siRNA substantially repressed both cellular level of GTP‐bound cdc42 and Rho kinase activity, indicating that these reactions require ABCA1. ApoA‐I‐mediated lipid release and Rho kinase activation were inhibited by not only Rho kinase inhibitor but also cdc42 siRNA. These findings suggest that cdc42 is activated by the interaction between apoA‐I and ABCA1 and enhances cholesterol release through the activation of Rho kinase. ApoA‐I increased the binding of Rock1, one of the Rho kinases, to reconstituted microtubule‐like filaments (rMT). Y‐27632 suppressed not only the association of rMT with the cytosolic lipid‐protein particles (CLPP)‐related proteins and lipids but also the intracellular transport of newly synthesized cholesterol to the plasma membrane in rat astrocytes treated with apoA‐I without inhibiting cholesterol synthesis. Finally, cdc42 siRNA reduced apoA‐I‐induced interaction between rMT and major players in intracellular cholesterol trafficking, such as caveolin‐1 and Rock1, suggesting a regulatory role of Rho family proteins in the apoA‐I‐mediated intracellular cholesterol transport. We conclude that ABCA1/cdc42/Rho kinase signaling is involved in apoA‐I‐induced intracellular cholesterol transport and apoA‐I‐mediated cholesterol release in rat astrocytes. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Purification and characterization of alkaline chitinase from Paenibacillus pasadenensis NCIM 5434
Authors: Loni Prasad P. , Patil Jaysing U. , Phugare Swapnil S. , Bajekal Shaym S.
Published: January 2014

An alkaline chitinase was purified from the bacterium Paenibacillus pasadenensis NCIM 5434 isolated from alkaline littoral soil of Lonar Lake. The chitinase was purified by ammonium sulfate precipitation followed by DEAE cellulose column chromatography. Enzyme was purified by 8.87 folds with 24.96% yield. Molecular characterization through SDS–PAGE analysis showed that it has molecular weight of about ∼35 kDa. The enzyme kinetics studies of purified chitinase revealed the following characteristics, Km 6.25 mg ml−1 and Vmax 434.78 µM for colloidal chitin as a substrate. The chitinase showed optimum pH 10 and temperature 37 °C. The enzyme exhibited significant activity up to 3% salt concentration, indicating saline nature. Its activity was enhanced with calcium, potassium and magnesium; whereas copper and mercury were found to be inhibitory. Since, it showed antifungal activity against Penicillium and Aspergillus, it could be used as powerful biocontrol agent.
Cloning, expression, and characterization of thermophilic L‐asparaginase from Thermococcus kodakarensis KOD1
Authors: Hong Sung‐Jun , Lee Yun‐Ha , Khan Abdur Rahim , Ullah Ihsan , Lee Changhee , Park Choi Kyu , Shin Jae‐Ho
Published: January 2014

The present study demonstrates cloning, expression, and characterization of hyperthermostable L‐asparaginase from Thermococcus kodakarensis KOD1 in Escherichia coli BLR(DE3). The recombinant 6× His‐tagged protein L‐asparaginase from T. kodakarensis (TkAsn), was purified to homogeneity by heat treatment followed by affinity chromatography using a nickel‐nitrilotriacetic acid (Ni‐NTA) column. The molecular mass of the purified enzyme was found to be approximately 37 kDa by sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS–PAGE). The enzymatic properties, such as optimum temperature and pH, were 90 °C and 8.0, respectively. Its appearent Km, Vmax, and Kcat values were 2.6 mM, 1121 µmol min−1 mg−1, and 694 S−1, respectively. The enzyme displayed high thermal stability at optimum temperature with an insignificant loss in enzymatic activity, retaining almost 90% of its activity over a time period of 32 h. The relative activity of the enzyme was significantly inhibited by the supplementation of Cu2+ and Ni2+ ions, while moderately inhibited by other ions. In contrast, Mg2+ ions enhanced the relative activity compared to the control. The acrylamide contents in baked dough were reduced to sixty percent after treatment with recombinant TkAsn as compared to the untreated control. Results of the present study revealed that the enzyme was highly active at broader range of temperatures and pH, which reflect the potential of recombinant TkAsn in the food processing industry. In addition, the high thermal stability of the enzyme may facilitates its handling, storage, and transportation.
Statistical downscaling of general circulation model outputs to precipitation—part 1: calibration and validation
Authors: Sachindra D. A. , Huang F. , Barton A. , Perera B. J. C.
Published: January 2014

This article is the first of two companion articles providing details of the development of two separate models for statistically downscaling monthly precipitation. The first model was developed with National Centers for Environmental Prediction/National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCEP/NCAR) reanalysis outputs and the second model was built using the outputs of Hadley Centre Coupled Model version 3 GCM (HadCM3). Both models were based on the multi‐linear regression (MLR) technique and were built for a precipitation station located in Victoria, Australia. Probable predictors were selected based on the past literature and hydrology. Potential predictors were selected for each calendar month separately from the NCEP/NCAR reanalysis data, considering the correlations that they maintained with observed precipitation. Based on the strength of the correlations, these potential predictors were introduced to the downscaling model until its performance in validation, in terms of Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE), was maximized. In this manner, for each calendar month, the final sets of potential predictors and the best downscaling models with NCEP/NCAR reanalysis data were identified. The HadCM3 20th century climate experiment data corresponding to these final sets of potential predictors were used to calibrate and validate the second model. In calibration and validation, the model developed with NCEP/NCAR reanalysis data displayed NSEs of 0.74 and 0.70, respectively. The model built with HadCM3 outputs showed NSEs of 0.44 and 0.17 during the calibration and validation periods, respectively. Both models tended to under‐predict high precipitation values and over‐predict near‐zero precipitation values, during both calibration and validation. However, this prediction characteristic was more pronounced by the model developed with HadCM3 outputs. A graphical comparison of observed precipitation, the precipitation reproduced by the two downscaling models and the raw precipitation output of HadCM3, showed that there is large bias in the precipitation output of HadCM3. This indicated the need of a bias‐correction, which is detailed in the second companion article.
Statistical downscaling of general circulation model outputs to precipitation—part 2: bias‐correction and future projections
Authors: Sachindra D. A. , Huang F. , Barton A. , Perera B. J. C.
Published: January 2014

This article is the second of a series of two articles. In the first article, two models were developed with National Centers for Environmental Prediction/National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCEP/NCAR) reanalysis and HadCM3 outputs, for statistically downscaling these outputs to monthly precipitation at a site in north‐western Victoria, Australia. In that study, it was seen that the downscaling model developed with NCEP/NCAR reanalysis outputs performs much better than the model developed with HadCM3 outputs. Furthermore, it was found that there is large bias in HadCM3 outputs which needs to be corrected. In this article, the downscaling model developed with NCEP/NCAR reanalysis outputs was used to downscale HadCM3 20th century climate experiment outputs to monthly precipitation over the period 1950–1999. In all four seasons, the precipitation downscaled with HadCM3 20th century outputs, displayed a large scatter and the majority of precipitation was overestimated. The precipitation downscaled with HadCM3 outputs was bias‐corrected against the observed precipitation pertaining to the period 1950–1999, using three techniques: (1) equidistant quantile mapping (EDQM), (2) monthly bias‐correction (MBC) and (3) nested bias‐correction (NBC). Although all these bias‐correction techniques were able to adequately correct the statistics of downscaled precipitation, the magnitude of the scatter of precipitation remained almost the same. Considering the performances and its ability to correct the cumulative distribution of precipitation, EDQM was selected for the bias‐correction of future precipitation projections. HadCM3 outputs for the A2 and B1 greenhouse gas scenarios were introduced to the downscaling model and the downscaled precipitation for the period 2000–2099 was bias‐corrected with the EDQM technique. Both A2 and B1 scenarios indicated a rise in the average of future precipitation in winter and a drop in it in summer and spring. These scenarios showed an increase in the maximum monthly precipitation in all seasons and an increase in percentage of months with zero precipitation in summer, autumn and spring.
Projections for the 21st century of the climate potential for beach‐based tourism in the Mediterranean
Authors: Amengual A. , Homar V. , Romero R. , Ramis C. , Alonso S.
Published: January 2014

Climate is a primary resource for beach‐based tourism. It defines the length and quality of the tourist season and plays a major role in destination choices and revenues. The Mediterranean is coincidentally one of the most visited tourist destinations and sensitive areas to climate change worldwide. Social, economic and environmental adaptation to climate change in this region should necessarily evaluate the Mediterranean and European climate resource for beach‐based tourism as well as its projected changes. To this end, the second‐generation climate index for tourism (CIT) has been adopted. ERA‐Interim reanalysis have been used as the regional observed baseline, thus providing daily atmospheric data to derive CIT. For projections, meteorological variables have been obtained from a set of regional climate models (RCMs) within the ENSEMBLES European project. A quantile–quantile adjustment has been applied to the CIT cumulative distribution functions based on each individual RCM output to properly correct biases at regional and local scales. Furthermore, an ensemble strategy is adopted to further cope with uncertainties arising from RCM errors and boundary conditions. The spatial distribution of present climate potential confirms the Mediterranean coast as the most suitable region in Europe for carrying out beach leisure activities. Excellent climatic conditions prevail in most of this coastal region during summer. However, the optimal climate asset is projected to noticeably deteriorate in summer across the Mediterranean, whereas only slightly improving in northwestern Europe by 2075–2094. On the other hand, a general enhancement of ideal climate potential is expected for the shoulder seasons in the former region. That is, optimal climatic conditions may shift from the present peak demand season to spring and autumn. These potential impacts might lead to important drawbacks for the current strongly seasonal‐adjusted beach‐based tourism industry in the Mediterranean. Therefore, main tourism stakeholders will likely need to face these challenges through adaptation and mitigation strategies.
Prediction of superconductivity of Ta2AlC: in situ Raman spectrometry and density functional investigations
Authors: Xiang Huimin , Wang Jiemin , Chen Yue , Wang Jingyang , Zhou Yanchun
Published: January 2014

In this paper, in situ Raman spectra of Ta2AlC are measured in the temperature range of 80–500 K at ambient pressure. The frequencies of the Raman modes decrease with increasing temperature, which have been explained by the anharmonic and thermal expansion effects. The line‐width of E2g (ω3) mode increases at elevated temperatures, which is found to be due to the anharmonic phonon–phonon scatterings. On the other hand, the line‐widths of E2g (ω1) and A1g (ω4) modes decrease continuously with increasing temperature, which is explained by the electron–phonon couplings of these two phonon modes with the Ta 5d electrons. The electron–phonon coupling strengths are obtained both in experiments and density functional calculations. Finally, Ta2AlC is predicted to be a new superconductive MAX phase. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Allergenicity of an enzymatic hydrolysate of soybean2Sprotein
Authors: Sung Dongeun , Ahn Kang Mo , Lim Seung‐Yong , Oh Sangsuk
Published: January 2014

BACKGROUND

This study was performed to examine how the characteristics of soybean2Sprotein influence allergenicity after enzymatic hydrolysis. Soybean2Sprotein was extracted and enzymatic hydrolysis was performed using pepsin and chymotrypsin. Allergenicity was observed using soybean‐sensitive patients' sera.

RESULTS

Only 13.3% (6/45) of soybean‐sensitive patients reacted to soybean Kunitz trypsin inhibitor (SKTI), known as the major allergen of soybean2Sprotein. After peptic hydrolysis for 90 min atpH1.2, the intensity ofSKTIdecreased to 25% but was still visible onSDS‐PAGE. Chymotryptic hydrolysis following peptic hydrolysis atpH8 for 60 min showed a limited hydrolytic effect on soybean2Sprotein. Peptic hydrolysis of soybean2Sprotein partially reduced the allergenicity of soybean2Sprotein, while chymotryptic hydrolysis following peptic hydrolysis increased slightly the allergenicity.

CONCLUSION

Food allergy caused by soybean2Sprotein occurred in part of the soybean‐sensitive patients.SKTIwas partially digested after peptic hydrolysis for 90 min. The allergenicity was decreased with peptic hydrolysis, while subsequent treatment of chymotrypsin increased slightly the allergenicity. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Laser Contact Opening of High Efficient Solar Cells
Authors: Gebhardt Mandy , Kießling Thomas , Grimm Michael
Published: January 2014

Plant and machinery manufacturers face a turbulent market in the photovoltaic industry after years of growth. The core problem is cost‐reduction pressure from conventional energy sources (0.05 € / kWh) as opposed to photovoltaic (0.13 € / kWh for Germany, respectively) [1]. Prevailing competitive pressure on producers, plant manu­facturers and suppliers is reflected in an innovation race. The objective of all these projects is to increase the degree of cell effectiveness while at the same time reducing manufacturing costs. Cell concepts that complement existing plant technology, thereby breaking through insuperable effectiveness limits using productivity optimization, offer a starting point here.
Cool Laser Pulses
Authors: Frede Maik
Published: January 2014

During the past decades pulsed laser systems have motivated many novel laser material applications. Nowadays ultrashort pulse (USP) lasers are routinely used for machining and processing high‐tech materials like glass, sapphire or ceramics and allow the production of small and powerful smart phones, high efficient solar cells or medical devices. The next generation USP lasers will focus on smaller system dimensions, a reduced price and shorter pulses to allow for even higher precision and smaller structuring. The article will give an overview of USP laser technology and concepts for future system configurations.
Seminal Tools for Roll‐to‐Roll Manufacturing
Authors: Schulz‐Ruhtenberg Malte , Kolbusch Thomas , Abreu Fernandes Susana , Wiesner Markus , Melle Thomas , Bergfeld Stefan , Brosda Maximilian , Schaefer Moritz , Ivanenko Mikhail , Ostendorf Andreas
Published: January 2014

Organic electronics is promising to be one of the groundbreaking technologies to revolutionize our everyday lives by including new functionalities into nearly any item. Cost is the most significant barrier, since new functionalities should not increase the price of the product dramatically. Roll‐to‐roll production is the solution to overcome the price barrier. In combination with integrated laser processes new possibilities are opened up for cost‐efficient, versatile and high throughput manufacturing lines (Fig. 1).
A Flexible Tool for Joining Technologies — The Diode Laser
Authors: Reinl Steffen
Published: January 2014

In the history of lasers, the diode laser is the most recent technology development for industrial applications. Driven by technology improvements, the diode laser has enormous potential in penetrating more and more industrial markets within a short time frame. It has replaced applications that were typically reserved for solid‐state lasers and has the capacity to actually generate better results due to its unique beam parameters. With Dilas' long‐term market history and experience, diode lasers are finding greater uses specifically for industrial usage. The latest generation series demonstrates this development and sets new standards in regard to highest reliability due to passive cooling technology. Within this article, new possibilities in the field of plastics welding, welding of thin sheet metals and soldering will be discussed.
Component Welding for Blood Analysis Device
Authors: Wenzlau Carsten
Published: January 2014

Welding of plastics with laser radiation has been established as one of the best joining technologies in several industries. The diverse methods and techniques of applying the laser radiation allows it to be used for welding many applications. The best known method of applying the laser radiation is contour welding. In this method the laser radiation is focused by an optic into one spot. The basic function of the spot optic is therefore to focus the laser radiation. However, such an optic can do more; it can also support quality control. Many industries require that quality be controlled and monitored continually as the product moves from workstation to workstation. This control almost always comes from monitoring data which is generated during each assembly process.
Molecular Packing and Orientation Transition of Crystalline Poly(2,5‐dihexyloxy‐p‐phenylene)
Authors: Yang Hua , Wang Lei , Zhang Jidong , Yu Xinhong , Geng Yanhou , Han Yanchun
Published: January 2014

The effect of thermal treatment on the transition of molecular packing and orientation of the semiconducting poly(2,5‐dihexyloxy‐p‐phenylene) (PPP) film is probed by the combination of in situ 2D grazing incidence X‐ray diffraction (2D GIXD) and selected area electron diffraction (SAED). The structure analysis indicates that PPP crystallizes in an orthorhombic unit cell with a = 21.20 Å, b = 3.78 Å, and c = 4.24 Å. A variation of the annealing temperature from 80 °C to 100 °C demonstrates that the worm‐like morphology in the pristine film melts and develops into nanowires. Furthermore, the molecular orientation transforms from face‐on to edge‐on via thermal annealing. Remarkably, a previously unknown metastable state of “slope” edge‐on with a tilt angle of 51.1° is observed. This orientation change arises from the heterogeneous nucleation and growth of edge‐on PPP crystal during crystallization from the melt.

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Polymethylene‐Based Copolymers by Polyhomologation or by Its Combination with Controlled/Living and Living Polymerizations
Authors: Zhang Hefeng , Alkayal Nazeeha , Gnanou Yves , Hadjichristidis Nikos
Published: January 2014

Polyhomologation, recently developed by Shea, is a borane‐initiated living polymerization of ylides leading to linear polymethylenes (C1 polymerization) with controlled molecular weight, low polydispersity, and well‐defined structures. In this Review, the copolyhomologation of different ylides as well as the combination of polyhomologation with controlled/living (nitroxide‐mediated, atom transfer radical, reversible addition‐fragmentation chain‐transfer) and living (ring opening, anionic) polymerizations is discussed.

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Equilibrium Morphologies and Force Extension Behavior for Polymers with Hydrophobic Patches: Role of Quenched Disorder
Authors: Mishra Ankur , Panwar Ajay Singh , Chakrabarti Buddhapriya
Published: January 2014

Equilibrium morphologies and mechanical properties of copolymers with hydrophobic segments are explored using Langevin dynamics simulations. The interplay between different length scales, namely, persistence length ℓp, and disorder correlation length p, in addition to the fraction of hydrophobic patches f, determines the equilibrium morphology and in turn their mechanical response. Globular and coil phases for flexible chains and core‐shell and looped morphologies for semi‐flexible ones are reported. Consequently, a force induced globule‐coil transition for flexible chains is observed for all disorder realizations, with p dictating the force vs. extension curves. Semi‐flexible chains with same ℓp and f but different p, show different sequences of force‐induced conformational transitions on account of their differing equilibrium conformations.