bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the process of fermentation coupling with foam fractionation and membrane module for nisin production
Authors: Cui Xiaoying , Zhang Da , Zheng Huijie , Wu Zhaoliang , Cui Shaofei , Dong Kai
Published: February 2014

Nisin, an antimicrobial peptide, is commercially used as a food preservative and a promising alternative in medical applications for inhibiting bacterial infection in both humans and livestock. It is produced by fermentation using certain strains of Lactococcus lactis ssp. lactis. In traditional fermentation, the yield of nisin has always been limited by adsorption of nisin onto its producer, enzymatic degradation and product inhibition. This limitation can be solved by fast removal of the product from the broth during fermentation. In the current work, a technology of fermentation coupling with foam fractionation and membrane module was developed to achieve in situ removal of nisin produced by L. lactis ssp. lactis ATCC 11454 from the broth. The effects of air flow rate, the initial aeration time and interval time on the performance of the technology were studied to increase the yield of nisin. The results showed that under the optimal conditions of air flow rate 60 mL/min, the initial aeration time of the fourth hour and regular 30‐min interval, the total nisin titer reached 3946 IU/mL, increased by 24.2%, compared with the control group (3177 IU/mL). Therefore the coupling technology can effectively weaken the feedback inhibition and thus increase the yield of nisin by in situ fast removal of the product from broth during fermentation. © 2014 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An inhibitory role for caspase‐3 at the late stage of RANKL‐induced osteoclast differentiation in RAW264 cells and mouse bone marrow macrophages
Authors: Katao Yuko , Shishido Mika , Inami Kaoru , Matsumoto Naoyuki , Sawai Hirofumi
Published: February 2014

Osteoclast differentiation/activation is involved in orthodontic tooth movement at the compression sites of the alveolar bone. RANKL, a member of the TNF family expressed in osteoblasts, binds to RANK, a member of the TNF receptor family expressed on preosteoclasts, resulting in differentiation of preosteoclasts into mature osteoclasts. Several members of the TNF family, such as TNF and Fas ligand, can induce apoptosis by activation of caspase‐3. We have investigated whether caspase‐3 be involved in the late stage of RANKL‐induced osteoclast differentiation. Increased active caspase‐3 was found in mouse monocytic RAW264 cells differentiated into mature osteoclasts by treatment with RANKL for 3 days. Co‐treatment with Z‐Asp‐CH2‐DCB, a caspase‐3‐specific inhibitor, augmented RANKL‐induced osteoclast differentiation in RAW264 cells, also seen in mouse bone marrow macrophages. This suggests that activation of caspase‐3 may play an inhibitory role at the late stage of RANKL‐induced osteoclast differentiation.
Thrombin promotes proliferation of human lung fibroblasts via protease activated receptor‐1‐dependent and NF‐κB‐independent pathways
Authors: Zhou Shengyu , Xiao Wei , Pan Xiujie , Zhu Maoxiang , Yang Zhihua , Zhang Fayan , Zheng Chunyan
Published: February 2014

Acute and chronic respiratory diseases are associated with abnormal coagulation regulation and fibrolysis. However, the detailed mechanism by which coagulation regulation and fibrolysis affect the occurrence and development of lung diseases remain to be elucidated. Protease activated receptor‐1 (PAR‐1), a major high‐affinity thrombin receptor, and nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB), a transcription factor, are involved in cell survival, differentiation, and proliferation. We have investigated the potential mechanism of thrombin‐induced fibroblast proliferation and roles of PAR‐1 and NF‐κB signalling in this process. The effect of thrombin on proliferation of human pulmonary fibroblasts (HPF) was assessed by 5‐bromo‐2‐deoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation assay. The expression of PAR1 and NF‐κB subunit p65 protein was detected by Western blot. Nuclear translocation of p65 was examined by laser scanning confocal microscopy. We show that thrombin significantly increased proliferation of HPF as determined by induction of BrdU‐positive incorporation ratio. Induced PAR1 protein expression was also seen in HPF cells treated with thrombin. However, thrombin had no significant effect on expression and translocation of NF‐κB p65 in HPF cells. The results indicate that, by increasing protein expression and interacting with PAR1, thrombin promotes HPF proliferation. NF‐κB signalling appears to play no role in this process.
Myth, language, and complex ideologies
Authors: Nescolarde‐Selva Josué Antonio , Usó‐Doménech Josep‐Lluis
Published: February 2014

Ideologies use for their conservation and propagation persuasive methods of communication: rhetoric. Rhetoric is analyzed from the semiotic and logical‐mathematical points of view. The following hypotheses are established: (1) language L is a self‐explanatory system, mediated by a successive series of systems of cultural conventions, (2) connotative significances of an ideological advertising rhetoric must be known, and (3) the notion of ideological information is a neutral notion that does not imply the valuation of ideology or its conditions of veracity or falsification. Rhetorical figures like metonymy, metaphor, parable analogy, and allegory are defined as relations. Metaphor and parable are order relations. Operations of metonymic and metaphoric substitution are defined and several theorems derived from these operations have been deduced. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 20: 63–81, 2014
A novel verifiable secret sharing mechanism using theory of numbers and a method for sharing secrets
Authors: Liu Yanjun , Harn Lein , Chang Chin‐Chen
Published: February 2014

Verifiable secret sharing (VSS) has been extensively used as a cryptographic tool in many applications of information security in recent years. A VSS enables a dealer to divide a secret s into n shares and allows shareholders to verify whether their shares are generated by the dealer consistently without revealing the secrecy of both shares and the secret. More specifically, shareholders can verify that (i) the secret can be recovered by any t or more than t shares and (ii) the secret cannot be obtained by fewer than t shares. Many VSSs are based on polynomial, and only a few of them are based on the Chinese Remainder Theorem (CRT). Recently, Harn et al. proposed a CRT‐based VSS in which multiple verification secrets are used during the phase of verification. In this paper, we propose a VSS based on Asmuth‐Bloom's (t, n) SS scheme, which depends on the CRT. Our proposed VSS is simpler and more efficient than the scheme of Harn et al. Our proposed VSS is unconditionally secure. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modeling and measurement of cross‐talk transmission between coupled lines
Authors: Sabolić Dubravko
Published: February 2014

In multiwire cables, high‐frequency signals can, and do, propagate not only by direct conduction over a pair of wires the signal was inserted to but also by electromagnetic coupling between adjacent transmission lines formed out of multiple wire pairs, too. Thus, it is useful to be able to measure relevant parameters, dependent of cable geometry and isolation material, that would enable modeling of cross‐talk propagation. In this article, signal propagation between ports of two coupled lines is first theoretically analyzed using z‐parameters. Then, the physical quantities needed for calculation of z‐parameters in systems with electrically long cable sections were defined and measured, and the results were verified against measurements performed on real cables. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Alternative reproductive tactics and sex‐biased gene expression: the study of the bulb mite transcriptome
Authors: Stuglik Michal T. , Babik Wiesław , Prokop Zofia , Radwan Jacek
Published: February 2014

The sexes experience different selective pressures, which can lead to highly divergent phenotypes that are achieved via sex‐biased gene expression. The effect of sexual dimorphism on the degree of sex‐bias in gene expression can be studied in species characterized by sexually selected alternative male phenotypes. We analyzed gene expression in the bulb mite Rhizoglyphus robini (Acari, Acaridae), in which more sexually dimorphic, aggressive fighter males, possessing thickened legs of the third pair which are used to kill rivals, coexist with unarmored scrambler males. We sequenced transcriptomes of adult females and both types of males and de‐novo assembled 114,456 transcriptome‐based gene models (TGMs). Significantly more TGMs had male‐biased expression than female‐biased expression. Among TGMs that were over expressed in one, but not both, male morphs (compared to expression in females), we found about four times more fighter‐biased genes than scrambler‐biased genes. This demonstrates that the degree of expression bias reflects the degree of sexually selected dimorphism. However, the number of sex‐biased genes was much higher than the number of genes differentially expressed between male morphs, and most male‐biased genes were shared between morphs, suggesting that selection pressures act similarly on males irrespective of their morph. Furthermore, we found that male‐biased genes evolved at a faster rate than female‐biased genes, as evidenced by a higher rate of both gene‐turnover and amino acid substitution, indicating that sexual selection, acting more strongly on males, accelerates the rate of molecular evolution. Interestingly, gene turnover was relatively higher, but amino acid substitution rate relatively lower among fighter‐biased genes, suggesting that different components of sexual selection may have different effects on the evolution of sex‐biased genes.
Facile Synthesis of Multipodal MnO Nanocrystals and Their Catalytic Performance
Authors: Kim Aram , Shin Dongwoo , Kim Mijong , Yoon Chohye , Song Hyunjoon , Park Kang Hyun
Published: February 2014

Multipodal manganese oxide nanocrystals, synthesized through the thermal decomposition of a Mn‐oleate complex, exhibited catalytic activity for the synthesis of a quinoxaline derivative from a α‐hydroxy ketone with a 1,2‐diamine. The MnO nanocrystals are single crystalline and uniform multipodal, with an average estimated distance of (47 ± 2) nm between the tips of two pods.
Metal‐Free Synthesis of Cyclic and Acyclic Carbonates from CO2 and Alcohols
Authors: Lim Yu Na , Lee Chan , Jang Hye‐Young
Published: February 2014

Diverse cyclic and acyclic carbonates such as ethylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, glycerol carbonate, and dimethyl carbonate were synthesized in moderate to good yields by the direct coupling of the corresponding alcohols with carbon dioxide in the absence of metal catalysts and inorganic bases. The direct carbonation mechanism of alcohols in the presence of 1,8‐diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec‐7‐ene, 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate, and dibromomethane was probed by 18O‐labeling experiments and chiral alcohol experiments.
Effects of slope angle and aspect on plant cover and species richness in a humid Mediterranean badland
Authors: Nadal‐Romero Estela , Petrlic Kristien , Verachtert Els , Bochet Esther , Poesen Jean
Published: February 2014

Soil erosion is one of the most severe land degradation processes in the Mediterranean region. Although badlands occupy a relatively small fraction of the Mediterranean area, their erosion rates are very high. Many studies have investigated to what extent vegetation controls soil erosion rates. This study, however, deals with the impact of erosion on vegetation establishment. In semi‐arid badlands of the Mediterranean, soil water availability constitutes the main limiting factor for vegetation development. As a consequence, south‐facing slopes are typically less vegetated due to a very large water stress. However, these findings do not necessarily apply to humid badlands. The main objective of this paper is to determine the topographic thresholds for plant colonization in relation to slope aspect and to assess the spatial patterns of vegetation cover and species richness. We surveyed 179 plots on highly eroded badland slopes in the Central Pyrenees. We defined four aspect classes subdivided into slope angle classes. Colonization success was expressed in terms of vegetation cover and species richness. Slope angle thresholds for plant colonization were identified for each slope aspect class by means of binary logistic regressions.

The results show that a critical slope angle exists below which plants colonize the badland slopes. Below this critical slope angle, plant cover and species richness increase with a decreasing slope angle. The largest critical slope angles in humid badlands are observed on south‐facing slopes, which contrasts with the results obtained in semi‐arid badlands. North‐facing slopes however are characterized by a reduced overall vegetation cover and species richness, and lower topographic threshold values. The possible underlying processes responsible for this slope‐aspect discrepancy in vegetation characteristics are discussed in terms of environmental variables that control regolith development, weathering and erosion processes. Moreover, possible restoration strategies through the use of vegetation in highly degraded environments are highlighted. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
WO3 Nanoparticles Synthesized Through Ion Exchange Route as Pt Electrocatalyst Support for Alcohol Oxidation
Authors: Yan Z. , Xie J. , Fang Y. , Chen M. , Wei X. , Lü X.
Published: February 2014

Tungsten oxide (WO3) nanocrystals with the diameter <5 nm supported on porous carbonized resin (denoted as C‐WO3) are synthesized. The WO3 precursors are dispersed at ion level through ion exchange route, then reduced to WO3 nanocrystals. Pt nanoparticles are loaded on the porous C‐WO3 matrix (denoted as Pt/C‐WO3) and used as electrocatalyst in fuel cell for alcohol oxidation, in which WO3 is found efficient promotion effect on Pt electrocatalyst in the electrochemical activity and stability. Thereinto, Pt/C‐WO3 gives 1.63 times higher current densities than the commercial Pt/C (TKK) for methanol oxidation at the same Pt loadings. Moreover, Pt/C‐WO3 electrocatalyst shows excellent properties in mass transfer than Pt/C (TKK). The present method can be readily scaled up for the production of other nanomaterials as well as WO3.
Evaluation of a Cu/YSZ and Ni/YSZ Bilayer Anode for the Direct Utilization of Methane in a Solid‐Oxide Fuel Cell
Authors: Buccheri M. A. , Hill J. M.
Published: February 2014

Carbon deposition is an issue when operating solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) on fuels other than hydrogen, and so a variety of strategies have been used to prevent carbon accumulation on the anodes. In this paper, we describe a bilayer anode that contains a functional layer consisting of Ni/YSZ and a conduction layer consisting of Cu/YSZ. The anode‐supported button cells were fabricated using a uni‐axially pressing technique to produce the anode, followed by impregnation with Cu. The cells were tested at 1,023 K in dry CH4 and their performance compared to that of a typical Ni/YSZ anode. The Cu does not catalyze the cracking of methane and as such less carbon deposits in the conduction layer resulting in anode stability for over 100 h. The limitation with using Cu in the anode is the temperature of operation.
Development of a Novel Ceramic Support Layer for Planar Solid Oxide Cells
Authors: Klemensø T. , Boccaccini D. , Brodersen K. , Frandsen H. L. , Hendriksen P. V.
Published: February 2014

The conventional solid oxide cell is based on a Ni–YSZ support layer, placed on the fuel side of the cell, also known as the anode supported SOFC. An alternative design, based on a support of porous 3YSZ (3 mol.% Y2O3–doped ZrO2), placed on the oxygen electrode side of the cell, is proposed. Electronic conductivity in the 3YSZ support is obtained post sintering by infiltrating LSC (La0.6Sr0.4Co1.05O3). The potential advantages of the proposed design is a strong cell, due to the base of a strong ceramic material (3YSZ is a partially stabilized zirconia), and that the LSC infiltration of the support can be done simultaneously with forming the oxygen electrode, since some of the best performing oxygen electrodes are based on infiltrated LSC. The potential of the proposed structure was investigated by testing the mechanical and electrical properties of the support layer. Comparable strength properties to the conventional Ni/YSZ support were seen, and sufficient and fairly stable conductivity of LSC infiltrated 3YSZ was observed. The conductivity of 8–15 S cm–1 at 850 °C seen for over 600 h, corresponds to a serial resistance of less than 3.5 m Ω cm2 of a 300 μm thick support layer.
Investigations for the application of EPB shields in difficult grounds / Untersuchungen für den Einsatz von Erddruckschilden in schwierigem Baugrund
Authors: Galli Mario , Thewes Markus
Published: February 2014

As a result of growing urbanisation, subsurface space is developed and has to be expanded. New and bigger tunnels are required to meet the infrastructural needs. The ground is the decisive factor regarding the type of tunnelling method and its efficiency. The bigger such projects the greater the chance to encounter inhomogeneous in situ ground conditions. This makes an adequate and economic choice of the process technology more difficult, especially in mechanised shield tunnelling. A clear differentiation based on the grain‐size distribution between the field of application of an EPB shield and a hydro shield nowadays is hardly possible. An application of a hydro shield machine in fine soils is just as feasible as tunnelling with EPB shields in coarse soils. In this article, the authors explain selected geological conditions, which represent challenging situations for the application of EPB shields. Therefore, it is particularly focused on overconsolidated cohesive soils, highly permeable non‐cohesive soils and sedimentary rock as well as areas of mixed face conditions (rock and soil). Moreover, test methods and tools for the planning and the construction phase are presented.

Im Zuge der fortschreitenden Urbanisierung wird der Bau neuer und größerer Tunnel erforderlich. Je größer solche Projekte angelegt sind, desto unwahrscheinlicher ist es, dass die In‐situ‐Bodenverhältnisse homogen und verfahrenstechnisch eindeutig sind. Beim maschinellen Tunnelbau im Schildvortrieb ist der Baugrund der entscheidende Faktor für die Auswahl und die Effizienz des Bauverfahrens. Eine eindeutige Differenzierung zwischen dem Einsatzbereich eines Erddruckschilds und eines Hydroschilds nur auf Grundlage der Kornverteilung des Baugrunds ist heute kaum noch möglich. Eine Verschiebung des Einsatzbereichs von Hydroschilden in den Feinkornbereich ist ebenso möglich wie die Erweiterung des Einsatzbereichs der Erddruckschilde in grobkörniges Lockergestein. In diesem Beitrag erläutern die Autoren ausgewählte geologische Situationen, die für den Einsatz von Erddruckschilden eine besondere Herausforderung darstellen können. Exemplarisch sind dies überkonsolidierte bindige Böden, stark durchlässige nichtbindige Böden sowie Sedimentfestgesteine bzw. Bereiche mit gemischter Ortsbrust aus Fest‐ und Lockergestein. Es werden Untersuchungsmethoden und Hilfsmittel für die Planung und Begleitung von Schildvortrieben vorgestellt.
Innovative hybrid EPB tunnelling in Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Maidl Ulrich , Pierri Julio C. D. D.
Published: February 2014

The Line 4 South being constructed in Rio de Janeiro crosses complex geology that includes a long stretch of sand bounded by two stretches of hard, highly abrasive rock. These geological conditions, combined with the fact that the project is located in a distinct urban area, creates a demanding project scenario where special care needs to be taken. After carrying out an evaluation to determine whether to use earth pressure balance or slurry technology, the design of a convertible EPB boring machine that can excavate both rock and soils was developed. This paper outlines the technical difficulties of the project and describes the decision‐making process and the solutions adopted. A technical description of the different operation modes of this hybrid TBM and the conditioning process related to each of them is provided.
The variation in composition of ultramafic rocks and the effect on their suitability for carbon dioxide sequestration by mineralization following acid leaching
Authors: Styles M. T. , Sanna A. , Lacinska A. M. , Naden J. , Maroto‐Valer M.
Published: February 2014

Carbon dioxide capture and storage by mineralization has been proposed as a possible technology to contribute to the reduction of global CO2 levels. A main candidate as a feed material, to supply Mg cations for combination with CO2 to form carbonate, is the family of ultramafic rocks, Mg‐rich silicate rocks with a range of naturally occurring mineralogical compositions. A classification scheme is described and a diagram is proposed to display the full range of both fresh and altered ultramafic rock compositions. This is particularly for the benefit of technologists to raise the awareness of the variation in possible feedstock materials. A systematic set of acid leaching experiments, in the presence of recyclable ammonium bisulphate, has been carried out covering the range of ultramafic rock compositions. The results show that lizardite serpentinite releases the most Mg with 78% removed after 1 h, while an olivine rock (dunite) gave 55% and serpentinized peridotites intermediate values. Antigorite serpentinite only released 40% and pyroxene‐ and amphibole‐rich rocks only 25%, showing they are unsuitable for the acid leaching method used. This wide variation in rock compositions highlights the necessity for accurate mineralogical characterization of potential resources and for technologists to be aware of the impact of feed material variations on process efficiency and development.
Coumarinolignans Isolated from the Seeds of Brucea javanica
Authors: Yang Jianhong , Liu Wenyu , Li Shucai , Ye Haoyu , Tang Huan , Chen Lijuan , Peng Aihua
Published: February 2014

A new coumarinolignan, cleomiscosin E (1), together with the known compound cleomiscosin A (2), has been isolated from the seeds of Brucea javanica (L.) Merr. Their structures were assigned on the basis of spectral studies. These two compounds exhibited potent anti‐inflammatory activities by inhibiting the nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐activated RAW264.7 macrophages.
Biotransformation of Oleaside A by Cunninghamella echinulata
Authors: Lu Min , Liu Qing‐Xin , Han Zhu‐Zhen , Hu Xian‐Qing , Zhang Wei‐Dong , Wan Ping , Li Hui‐Liang
Published: February 2014

Biotransformation of oleaside A (1) by Cunninghamella echinulata (ACCC 30369) was carried out to afford two products, (6R)‐6‐hydroxyoleaside A (2) and (7S)‐7‐hydroxyoleaside A (3). The structures of 2 and 3 were elucidated by extensive NMR analyses and further confirmed by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. We also report herein the X‐ray diffraction structure of oleaside A (1) for the first time. Compounds 1–3 were evaluated for their cytotoxic activities against the A549, HCT116, HepG2, and HL‐60 human cancer cell lines.
Enantioselective Access to (−)‐Ambrox®Starting fromβ‐Farnesene
Authors: Chapuis Christian
Published: February 2014

Starting from inexpensive (E)‐β‐farnesene (1), an eight‐step enantioselective synthesis of the olfactively preciousAmbrox®((−)‐2a) has been performed. The crucial step is the catalytic asymmetric isomerization of (2E,6E)‐N,N‐diethylfarnesylamine (3) to the corresponding enamine (−)‐(R,E)‐4a, applyingTakasago's well‐known industrial methodology. The resulting dihydrofarnesal ((+)‐(R)‐5) (90% yield, 96% ee), obtained afterin situhydrolysis (AcOH, H2O), was then cyclized under catalytic SnCl4conditions,viaits corresponding unreported enol acetate (−)‐(R)‐4b, to affordtrans‐decalenic aldehyde (+)‐6a. Subsequent transformations furnished bicyclic ketone (−)‐8aand unsaturated nitrile (+)‐11, both reported as intermediates to access to (−)‐2a.
Cytotoxic Amides and Quinolones from Clausena lansium
Authors: Song Wei‐Wu , Zeng Guang‐Zhi , Peng Wen‐Wen , Chen Ke‐Xian , Tan Ning‐Hua
Published: February 2014

Two new amides, claulansamides A and B (1 and 2, resp.), together with five known amides, 3–7 and six known quinolones, 8–13, were isolated from the stems and roots of Clausena lansium. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of extensive spectroscopic methods. Their absolute configurations were determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction technique, CD, and optical rotation. HPLC Chiral separation of 1 afforded two enantiomers, (+)‐ and (−)‐claulansamide A, respectively. Compounds 9, 12, and 13 were isolated from the genus Clausena for the first time. All compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxic activities against A549, BGC‐823, and HeLa cancer cell lines. However, only 9 showed cytotoxic activity against A549 cell line with an IC50 value of 46.3 μM, and 11 against BGC‐823 and HeLa cell lines with the IC50 values of 55.0 and 14.7 μM, respectively.
Voronota: A fast and reliable tool for computing the vertices of the Voronoi diagram of atomic balls
Authors: Olechnovič Kliment , Venclovas Česlovas
Published: February 2014

The Voronoi diagram of balls, corresponding to atoms of van der Waals radii, is particularly well‐suited for the analysis of three‐dimensional structures of biological macromolecules. However, due to the shortage of practical algorithms and the corresponding software, simpler approaches are often used instead. Here, we present a simple and robust algorithm for computing the vertices of the Voronoi diagram of balls. The vertices of Voronoi cells correspond to the centers of the empty tangent spheres defined by quadruples of balls. The algorithm is implemented as an open‐source software tool, Voronota. Large‐scale tests show that Voronota is a fast and reliable tool for processing both experimentally determined and computationally modeled macromolecular structures. Voronota can be easily deployed and may be used for the development of various other structure analysis tools that utilize the Voronoi diagram of balls. Voronota is available at: http://www.ibt.lt/bioinformatics/voronota. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
SSThread: Template‐free protein structure prediction by threading pairs of contacting secondary structures followed by assembly of overlapping pairs
Authors: Maurice Kevin J.
Published: February 2014

Acquiring the three‐dimensional structure of a protein from its amino acid sequence alone, despite a great deal of work and significant progress on the subject, is still an unsolved problem. SSThread, a new template‐free algorithm is described here that consists of making several predictions of contacting pairs of α‐helices and β‐strands derived from a database of experimental structures using a knowledge‐based potential, secondary structure prediction, and contact map prediction followed by assembly of overlapping pair predictions to create an ensemble of core structure predictions whose loops are then predicted. In a set of seven CASP10 targets SSThread outperformed the two leading methods for two targets each. The targets were all β‐strand containing structures and most of them have a high relative contact order which demonstrates the advantages of SSThread. The primary bottlenecks based on sets of 74 and 21 test cases are the pair prediction and loop prediction stages. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ultrasonographic appearance of subungual glomus tumors
Authors: Chiang Yi‐Pin , Hsu Chia‐Yu , Lien Wei‐Chung , Chang Yu‐Ju
Published: February 2014

Background

To describe the sonographic (US) features of pathologically confirmed subungual glomus tumors.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed cases of pathologically confirmed subungual glomus tumors in patients presenting between December 1, 2008 and October 31, 2012, selected from cases in the musculoskeletal US database of a single institution.

Results

Data on 14 patients with pathologically proven glomus tumors were retrieved from the US database. The tumor size ranged from 1.9 to 10.0 mm (mean ± SD, 5.3 ± 2.3 mm). Well‐circumscribed tumors with clear margins were identified on US in 12 cases (86%): 11 (92%) tumors were hypoechoic and 1 (8%) was isoechoic. On power or color Doppler US, 11 of these 12 tumors (92%) appeared hypervascular. Two of the 14 tumors did not show a clearly circumscribed mass on gray‐scale US, and bony erosion was the only US finding in one of the two cases. Seven of the 14 patients (50%) showed focal bony erosion in the underlying phalangeal bone.

Conclusions

A hypervascular mass in the nail bed was the most common US finding associated with subungual glomus tumors. We found that focal hypervascularity supports the diagnosis, and bony erosion is commonly associated with digital glomus tumors. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 42:336–340, 2014
Correlation of plasma viral loads and presence of Chikungunya IgM antibodies with cytokine/chemokine levels during acute Chikungunya virus infection
Authors: Reddy Vijayalakshmi , Mani Reeta Subramaniam , Desai Anita , Ravi Vasanthapuram
Published: February 2014

Chikungunya (CHIKV) is an emerging arboviral infection of public health concern in India contributing to widespread morbidity. The precise molecular events occurring early in the infection have not been well understood. Cytokines/chemokines are suspected to play a key role in its pathogenesis. Very few studies have correlated the plasma levels of cytokines/chemokines with diagnostic markers such as viral loads and presence of CHIKV IgM antibodies. Understanding these dynamics in the early phase of CHIKV infection is likely to provide an insight into the evolution of the immune response, identify biomarkers for assessing severity, and for development of newer therapeutic strategies. This study was therefore undertaken to estimate the levels of various cytokines/chemokines in plasma samples of patients infected with CHIKV and correlate to viral load and CHIKV IgM antibodies. Cytokine/chemokine levels and viral loads in plasma were measured using cytometric bead array and TaqMan real time PCR assay, respectively. The findings revealed that acute phase of CHIKV infection is characterized by predominant inflammatory responses mediated by IL‐6, IL‐8, IP‐10, MCP‐1, and MIG (P < 0.003). Plasma levels of IL‐6 (r = 0.53, P < 0.05) and MCP‐1 (r = 0.83, P < 0.05) emerged as reliable biomarkers of high viral loads in Chikungunya patients. Further, presence of elevated levels of MCP‐1 and MIG during the chronic phase of the disease suggests that these chemokines may contribute to perpetuation of symptoms. Hence, these chemokines might serve as targets for the development of treatment to ameliorate the symptoms during the acute phase and prevent the development of chronic manifestations. J. Med. Virol. 86:1393–1401, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Thermally Cross‐Linkable Hole Transport Polymers for Solution‐Based Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Cha Seung Ji , Cho Se‐Na , Lee Woo‐Hyung , Chung Ha‐Seul , Kang In‐Nam , Suh Min Chul
Published: February 2014

Two thermally cross‐linkable hole transport polymers that contain phenoxazine and triphenylamine moieties, X‐P1 and X‐P2, are developed for use in solution‐processed multi‐stack organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs). Both X‐P1 and X‐P2 exhibit satisfactory cross‐linking and optoelectronic properties. The highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) levels of X‐P1 and X‐P2 are −5.24 and −5.16 eV, respectively. Solution‐processed super yellow polymer devices (ITO/X‐P1 or X‐P2/PDY‐132/LiF/Al) with X‐P1 or X‐P2 hole transport layers of various thicknesses are fabricated with the aim of optimizing the device characteristics. The fabricated multi‐stack yellow devices containing the newly synthesized hole transport polymers exhibit satisfactory currents and power efficiencies. The optimized X‐P2 device exhibits a device efficiency that is dramatically improved by more than 66% over that of a reference device without an HTL.

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Improved treatment results of children with B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma: A report from the Japanese Pediatric Leukemia/Lymphoma Study Group B‐NHL03 study
Authors: Tsurusawa Masahito , Mori Tetsuya , Kikuchi Akira , Mitsui Tetsuo , Sunami Shosuke , Kobayashi Ryoji , Takimoto Tetsuya , Saito Akiko , Watanabe Tomoyuki , Fujimoto Junichiro , Nakazawa Atsuko , Ohshima Kouichi , Horibe Keizo ,   for the lymphoma committee of the Japanese Pediatric Leukemia/Lymphoma Study Group
Published: February 2014

Background

Previous Japanese studies of childhood B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (B‐NHL) have shown a favorable outcome, though the study size was too small to effectively assess the efficacy and safety of treatment for childhood B‐NHL.

Procedure

We performed a nation‐wide prospective B‐NHL03 study to assess the efficacy and safety of short‐pulse intensive chemotherapy for children with B‐NHL. They were stratified into four treatment groups according to disease stage, tumor resectability and bone marrow/CNS involvement: Group 1 with all resected stage I/II, Group 2 with non‐resected stage I/II, Group 3 with stage III & CNS‐negative stage IV, and Group 4 with CNS‐positive stage IV & Burkitt leukemia. Treatment duration was 2 courses for Group 1, 4 courses for Group 2, and 6 courses for Groups 3 and 4, respectively. CNS irradiation was omitted in all patients.

Results

The follow‐up time ranged from 0.8 to 88 months, with a median of being 45 months. For 321 patients analyzed in this study, overall survival and event‐free survival (EFS) at 4 years was 92.7% and 87.4%, respectively. The 4‐year EFS according to treatment group were 94% for Group 1 (n = 17), 98% for Group 2 (n = 103), 84% for Group 3 (n = 111), and 78% for Group 4 (n = 90). There was no significant difference in outcome by histology. Therapy‐related death occurred in three patients in remission.

Conclusions

Our nationwide large‐scale study resulted in a cure rate above 90% with <1% toxic death in childhood B‐NHL. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1215–1221. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Adhesive joints between carbon fiber and aluminum foam reinforced by surface‐treated aramid fibers
Authors: Sun Zhi , Shi Shanshan , Hu Xiaozhi , Chen Haoran , Wong Zachary
Published: February 2014

Short aramid fibers have been successfully used to reinforce the interface adhesive property between carbon fiber/epoxy composites and aluminum foam, and to form aramid‐fiber “composite adhesive joints.” In this study, to further improve the reinforcing effect of the aramid‐fiber‐reinforced adhesive joints, aramid fibers were ultrasonic treated to conduct different surface conditions. Critical energy release rate of the carbon fiber/aluminum foam sandwich beams with as‐received and treated interfacial aramid fibers were measured to study the influence of the surface treatment on aramid fibers. It was found that reinforcements in critical energy release rate were achieved for all samples with treated aramid fiber as measured under double cantilever beam condition. The interfacial characteristics of the short aramid fibers with different surface condition were investigated and discussed based on scanning electron microscopy observations. It is suggested that advanced bonding between aramid fibers and epoxy resin was conducted after surface treatment, and more energy was therefore absorbed through fiber bridging during crack opening and extension process. POLYM. COMPOS., 36:192–197, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Liquid‐sensing behaviors of carbon black/polypropylene and carbon nanotubes/polypropylene composites: A comparative study
Authors: Li Yilong , Dai Kun , Zhao Junhui , Li Ning , Zheng Guoqiang , Liu Chuntai , Chen Jingbo , Shen Changyu
Published: February 2014

Liquid‐sensing behaviors of carbon black (CB)/polypropylene (PP) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs)/PP‐conductive polymer composites (CPCs) were studied in detail. It was found that the CB/PP showed a higher liquid‐sensing intensity but a poorer reproducibility toward the “good solvent” xylene. The main origin is that the conductive works formed by CB, the zero‐dimensional filler, are vulnerable to the swelling effect of PP during the immersion‐drying runs (IDRs), whereas CNTs in the CNTs/PP with a large aspect ratio have better capacity in maintaining the conductive networks. To investigate the influence of the remaining solvent on the evolution of conductive networks, liquid‐sensing tests of the two composites after long‐term immersion in xylene were investigated. Results showed that the liquid‐sensing behaviors of CNTs/PP changed less weakly compared with that of the CB/PP. Liquid‐sensing behaviors of the two composites, cyclohexane and tetrachloromethane, to the “poor solvents” were also studied. The results of this article indicate that liquid‐sensing behaviors of the CPCs were affected by the microstructure of the conductive filler, the solubility parameter, and the molar volume of the solvent significantly. POLYM. COMPOS., 36:205–213, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Extraction for Metabolomics: Access to The Metabolome
Authors: Mushtaq Mian Yahya , Choi Young Hae , Verpoorte Robert , Wilson Erica G.
Published: February 2014

Introduction

The value of information obtained from a metabolomic study depends on how much of the metabolome is present in analysed samples. Thus, only a comprehensive and reproducible extraction method will provide reliable data because the metabolites that will be measured are those that were extracted and all conclusions will be built around this information.

Objective

To discuss the efficiency and reliability of available sample pre‐treatment methods and their application in different fields of metabolomics.

Methods

The review has three sections: the first deals with pre‐extraction techniques, the second discusses the choice of extraction solvents and their main features and the third includes a brief description of the most used extraction techniques: microwave‐assisted extraction, solid‐phase extraction, supercritical fluid extraction, Soxhlet and a new method developed in our laboratory – the comprehensive extraction method.

Results

Examination of over 200 studies showed that sample collection, homogenisation, grinding and storage could affect the yield and reproducibility of results. They also revealed that apart from the solvent used for extraction, the extraction techniques have a decisive role on the metabolites available for analysis.

Conclusion

It is essential to evaluate efficacy and reproducibility of sample pre‐treatment as a first step to ensure the reliability of a metabolomic study. Among the reviewed methods, the comprehensive extraction method appears to provide a promising approach for extracting diverse types of metabolites. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Progressive transition from resonant to diffuse reflection in anisotropic colloidal films
Authors: Rotstein Roy , Mitragotri Samir , Moskovits Martin , Morse Daniel E.
Published: February 2014

The synthesis and characterization of highly ordered three‐dimensional photonic crystals have been the subjects of intense study over the past two decades due to the unique ability of these structures to control light at the nanoscale. Building on that work in recent years, increasing interest is now focused on the unique optical properties of disordered and quasi‐ordered photonic structures. We present a study of the effects of shape anisotropy and disorder on the specular reflection properties of polymer‐based colloidal films comprised of rod‐shaped subunits of varying aspect ratio. We characterize the specular reflectance properties of these films as a function of their increasing levels of disorder, demonstrating progressive transition from resonant reflection to diffuse reflection. The onset of the diffuse reflection is governed by particle size. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys. 2014, 52, 611–617
Delicate polydimethylsiloxane hollow fibre membrane interfaces for condensed phase membrane introduction mass spectrometry (CP‐MIMS)
Authors: Willis Megan D. , Duncan Kyle. D. , Krogh Erik T. , Gill Chris G.
Published: February 2014

RATIONALE

On‐line analytical techniques such as condensed phase membrane introduction mass spectrometry (CP‐MIMS) permit direct and rapid analyte measurements in complex samples. Direct, rapid analytical methods are desirable because they eliminate potential contamination and/or dilution from sample workup steps, facilitate rapid sample screening and allow 'real‐time' monitoring applications.

METHODS

PDMS hollow fibre membrane (HFM) flow cell interfaces (215 µm, 35 µm, and 0.5 µm thick composite) were coupled with an electrospray ionization (ESI) triple quadrupole mass spectrometer. A simultaneous push/pull methanol acceptor phase delivery system and membrane mounting via epoxy potting ensured that the delicate membranes were not ruptured during construction or sample measurements. Both flow cell and direct insertion 'J‐Probe' interfaces using the 0.5 µm thick composite PDMS HFM were utilized for direct naphthenic acid measurements.

RESULTS

Delicate HFM CP‐MIMS interfaces were used for the rapid screening and continuous, on‐line monitoring of carboxylic acids and hydroxylated compounds directly in complex sample matrices under ambient conditions at pptr – ppb detection limits. Push/pull acceptor phase (methanol) delivery maintained ambient hydrostatic pressures within the HFMs, improving ESI stability and analytical sensitivity, especially with stopped acceptor flow operation. Signal response times less than 2 min were achieved for thin, composite PDMS HFMs at 30°C. The continuous monitoring of naphthenic acid degradation was demonstrated.

CONCLUSIONS

Delicate PDMS HFM CP‐MIMS interfaces were developed and used for the direct, on‐line detection of low volatility, polar analytes in complex aqueous samples. Composite PDMS HFM interfaces yielded the best overall analytical performance improvements, and were used to demonstrate the direct measurement of naphthenic acids in complex aqueous samples. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rapid analysis of Δ‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol in hair using direct analysis in real time ambient ionization orbitrap mass spectrometry
Authors: Duvivier Wilco F. , van Beek Teris A. , Pennings Ed J. M. , Nielen Michel W. F.
Published: February 2014

RATIONALE

Forensic hair analysis methods are laborious, time‐consuming and provide only a rough retrospective estimate of the time of drug intake. Recently, hair imaging methods using matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI‐MS) were reported, but these methods require the application of MALDI matrix and are performed under vacuum. Direct analysis of entire locks of hair without any sample pretreatment and with improved spatial resolution would thus address a need.

METHODS

Hair samples were attached to stainless steel mesh screens and scanned in the X‐direction using direct analysis in real time (DART) ambient ionization orbitrap MS. The DART gas temperature and the accuracy of the probed hair zone were optimized using Δ‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) as a model compound. Since external contamination is a major issue in forensic hair analysis, sub‐samples were measured before and after dichloromethane decontamination.

RESULTS

The relative intensity of the THC signal in spiked blank hair versus that of quinine as the internal standard showed good reproducibility (26% RSD) and linearity of the method (R2 = 0.991). With the DART hair scan THC could be detected in hair samples from different chronic cannabis users. The presence of THC was confirmed by quantitative liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry. Zones with different THC content could be clearly distinguished, indicating that the method might be used for retrospective timeline assessments. Detection of THC in decontaminated drug user hair showed that the DART hair scan not only probes THC on the surface of hair, but penetrates deeply enough to measure incorporated THC.

CONCLUSIONS

A new approach in forensic hair analysis has been developed by probing complete locks of hair using DART‐MS. Longitudinal scanning enables detection of incorporated compounds and can be used as pre‐screening for THC without sample preparation. The method could also be adjusted for the analysis of other drugs of abuse. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proteomics study of N‐acetylcysteine response in H1N1‐infected cells by using mass spectrometry
Authors: Wu Hanzhi , Song Wenjun , Gao Xiang , Liu Ning , Wang Pui , Chen Honglin , Cai Zongwei
Published: February 2014

RATIONALE

The pathology of A/Puerto Rico/8/1934 (H1N1) infection associated with the interaction of virus and its host cells is not clear. N‐Acetylcysteine (NAC) is an antioxidant as well as a premier antitoxin and immune support substance. A high dose of NAC was recently reported for a therapy of H1N1 (2009) influenza pneumonia.

METHODS

NAC was used as a small‐molecule organic probe to investigate the protein expression of human lung carcinoma cell line (A549) infected by influenza virus A/Puerto Rico/8/1934 (H1N1). Differential proteins were identified from MALDI‐TOF MS and Q‐TOF MS/MS analyses.

RESULTS

The obtained results showed that NAC kept cells away from apoptosis. Virus‐infected cells were arrested in G0/G1 phase. The lowest cell population of G0/G1 phase was detected when the cells were treated by 10 mM NAC for one day. Application of MS‐based proteomics allowed the identification of the differential proteins. Software analysis showed that four proteins had close relationship.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicated that NAC as a small‐molecule probe might effect the protein expression of A549 cells infected by the H1N1 virus. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Three-dimensional fractional-spin gravity
Authors: Boulanger Nicolas , Sundell Per , Valenzuela Mauricio
Published: February 2014

Abstract

Using Wigner-deformed Heisenberg oscillators, we construct 3D Chern-Simons models consisting of fractional-spin fields coupled to higher-spin gravity and internal nonabelian gauge fields. The gauge algebras consist of Lorentz-tensorial Blencowe-Vasiliev higher-spin algebras and compact internal algebras intertwined by infinite-dimensional generators in lowest-weight representations of the Lorentz algebra with fractional spin. In integer or half-integer non-unitary cases, there exist truncations to gl(ℓ, ℓ ± 1) or gl(ℓ|ℓ ± 1) models. In all non-unitary cases, the internal gauge fields can be set to zero. At the semi-classical level, the fractional-spin fields are either Grassmann even or odd. The action requires the enveloping-algebra representation of the deformed oscillators, while their Fock-space representation suffices on-shell.

The project was funded in part by F.R.S.-FNRS “Ulysse” Incentive Grant for Mobility in Scientific Research.
The Optimization of the Production of Methyl Esters from Corn Oil Using Barium Hydroxide as a Heterogeneous Catalyst
Authors: Mustata Fanica , Bicu Ioan
Published: February 2014

In recent years, vegetable oils, as renewable raw materials, became a promising feedstock for chemicals and biodiesel production. The main products derived from oils are esters of fatty acids, especially methyl esters, obtained by their transesterification with methanol, in presence of acid or alkaline catalysts. The use of such catalysts implies the need for washing operations, which leads to environmental pollution. In the present paper, the response surface methodology based on a central composite design, has been developed to optimize the process of transesterification of corn oil. Ba(OH)2 in presence of diethyl ether was used as catalyst. A quadratic polynomial equation was obtained. It correlates the reaction parameters [methanol/oil molar ratio (xr), reaction time (xt) and catalyst concentration (xc)] with methyl esters yield. Analysis of variance analysis showed that only methanol/oil molar ratio and catalyst concentration have had the most significant influences on the conversion. The maximum methyl esters yield was obtained using the following optimum parameters: methanol/corn oil ratio of 11.32, reaction time of 118 min and catalyst concentration of 3.6 wt%.