bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Redeye, a new sleep-regulating protein whose expression is modulated by sleep amount
Authors: Shi Mi , Yue Zhifeng , Kuryatov Alexandre , Lindstrom Jon M , Sehgal Amita
Published: February 2014

In this study, we report a new protein involved in the homeostatic regulation of sleep in Drosophila. We conducted a forward genetic screen of chemically mutagenized flies to identify short-sleeping mutants and found one, redeye (rye) that shows a severe reduction of sleep length. Cloning of rye reveals that it encodes a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor α subunit required for Drosophila sleep. Levels of RYE oscillate in light–dark cycles and peak at times of daily sleep. Cycling of RYE is independent of a functional circadian clock, but rather depends upon the sleep homeostat, as protein levels are up-regulated in short-sleeping mutants and also in wild type animals following sleep deprivation. We propose that the homeostatic drive to sleep increases levels of RYE, which responds to this drive by promoting sleep.
Super Spy variants implicate flexibility in chaperone action
Authors: Quan Shu , Wang Lili , Petrotchenko Evgeniy V , Makepeace Karl AT , Horowitz Scott , Yang Jianyi , Zhang Yang , Borchers Christoph H , Bardwell James CA
Published: February 2014

Experimental study of the role of disorder in protein function is challenging. It has been proposed that proteins utilize disordered regions in the adaptive recognition of their various binding partners. However apart from a few exceptions, defining the importance of disorder in promiscuous binding interactions has proven to be difficult. In this paper, we have utilized a genetic selection that links protein stability to antibiotic resistance to isolate variants of the newly discovered chaperone Spy that show an up to 7 fold improved chaperone activity against a variety of substrates. These “Super Spy” variants show tighter binding to client proteins and are generally more unstable than is wild type Spy and show increases in apparent flexibility. We establish a good relationship between the degree of their instability and the improvement they show in their chaperone activity. Our results provide evidence for the importance of disorder and flexibility in chaperone function.
Oxidation characteristics of silicon exposed to O(1D2) and O(3P2) radicals and stress-relaxation oxidation model for O(1D2) radicals
Authors: Kabe Yoshiro , Hasunuma Ryu , Yamabe Kikuo
Published: February 2014

We investigated the oxidation of silicon by O(1D2) and O(3P2) radicals in a microwave plasma at 673 K in an Ar/O2 atmosphere containing a small amount of hydrogen. O(1D2) radical oxidation with hydrogen gave a much higher growth rate than wet thermal oxidation at 1223 K. The activation energies for the parabolic rate constant owing to O(1D2) and O(3P2) radical oxidations were respectively 0.18 and 0.40 eV, which are much lower than that (0.71 eV) by thermal oxidation. In time-dependent dielectric breakdown tests, despite SiO2 films formed by radicals having a higher degradation rate than those produced by thermal oxidation, SiO2 films formed by O(1D2) radicals had longer lifetimes. Our dielectric breakdown model indicates this is due to the flat SiO2 surface and interface suppressing two-dimensional local breakdown. A stress-relaxation oxidation model for O(1D2) radicals is proposed that well explains the formation of flat SiO2 surfaces and interfaces.
Sub-wavelength palladium antenna arrays for hydrogen optical detection in the infrared region
Authors: Maeda Etsuo , Kometani Reo , Ishihara Sunao , Delaunay Jean-Jacques
Published: February 2014

Sub-wavelength scaled metallic structures have been studied as sensing elements in new optical devices because these structures enable strong enhancement of the electric field. Among these structures, nano-antenna arrays play a special role for antennas are known to realize both functions of source and detection for radiation. In this paper, rectangular shaped palladium (Pd) sub-wavelength nano-antenna arrays were applied to the detection of permittivity change of the antennas made of Pd that forms Pd hydride when exposed to hydrogen (H2). The dip of the extinction spectrum was shifted toward longer wavelengths. The shape, periodicity, and permittivity dependence of the extinction spectrum of the nano-antenna arrays were investigated through computational and experimental studies. The peak position and sharpness of the extinction spectrum were tailored by varying the period of the arrayed structure. Extinction dip was shifted by 164 nm when exposed to 2% H2.
High-performance poly-Si thin film transistors with highly biaxially oriented poly-Si thin films using double line beam continuous-wave laser lateral crystallization
Authors: Yamano Masayuki , Kuroki Shin-Ichiro , Sato Tadashi , Kotani Koji
Published: February 2014

Highly biaxially oriented poly-Si thin films were formed by double-line beam continuous-wave laser lateral crystallization (DLB-CLC). The crystallinities of the DLB-CLC poly-Si thin films were (110), (111), and (211) for the laser scan, transverse, and surface directions, respectively, and an energetically stable Σ3 grain boundary was observed to be dominant. All silicon grains were elongated in the laser scan direction and one-dimensionally very large silicon grains with lengths of more than 100 µm were fabricated. Using these biaxially oriented polycrystalline silicon (poly-Si) films, low-temperature poly-Si TFTs (LTPS-TFTs) were fabricated at low temperatures (≦550 °C) by a metal gate self-aligned process. As a result, a TFT with a high electron field effect mobility of μFE = 450 cm2 V−1 s−1 in a linear region was realized.
Investigation on antireflection coating for high resistance to potential-induced degradation
Authors: Mishina Ken , Ogishi Atsufumi , Ueno Kiyoshi , Doi Takuya , Hara Kohjiro , Ikeno Norihiro , Imai Daisuke , Saruwatari Tetsuya , Shinohara Makoto , Yamazaki Toshiharu , Ogura Atsushi , Ohshita Yoshio , Masuda Atsushi
Published: February 2014

In this study, we focus on the relationship between potential-induced degradation (PID) and characteristics of antireflection coating (ARC) on crystalline silicon solar cells. We evaluated the PID of general industrial multicrystalline p-type silicon solar cell groups with various ARCs. The module, which has an ARC deposited by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PE-CVD) using a hollow cathode, indicated high resistance to PID with maintained conventional refractive index (RI). This ARC had properties of high conductivity and low oxygen concentration. It has the potential to suppress PID on crystalline silicon solar cells with maintained conventional RI.
Improving the performance of subphthalocyanine/C60 planar heterojunction organic photovoltaic device through the insertion of molybdenum oxide anodic buffer
Authors: Su Wei-Cheng , Lee Chih-Chien , Liu Shun-Wei , Lin Chun-Feng , Chou Chia-Chang , Huang Bo-Yao , Cheng Ching-Wen
Published: February 2014

Here, an efficient subphthalocyanine (SubPc)/C60 heterojunction organic photovoltaic device is demonstrated by using MoO3 as the anodic buffer. In comparison with the device without any treatments, the insertion of MoO3 leads to a significant increase in open-circuit voltage due to a better energy level alignment of the SubPc, which is similar to the use of oxygen-plasma. In addition, MoO3 serves as an optical spacer to tune the SubPc/C60 interface at the optimum optical field distribution. As a result, the short-circuit current density is considerably improved as predicted using the simulation model based on the transfer matrix. A slightly increased fill factor implies the efficient hole extraction after the insertion of MoO3. Moreover, the device with MoO3 as anodic buffer shows an elongated lifetime as compared with the device with oxygen-plasma treatment.
Tuberous Sclerosis
Authors: Panwar Praveen Kumar , Chaudhary K.P , Sharma Kalpna
Published: February 2014

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) or Morbus Bourneville-Pringle disease is an autosomal dominant phakomatosis, first described by Desiree-Magloire Bourneville in 1880. Tuberous sclerosis is a genetic disorder characterized by the growth of numerous benign tumours in many parts of the body caused by mutations on either of two genes, TSC1 and TSC2. This rare genetic disorder is usually associated with a triad of seizures, mental retardation and cutaneous lesions. On radiological investigations, calcified subependymal hamartomas, uncalcified cortical tubers, or and radial white matter lines, are characteristic. The case of a 13 year old male presenting with abnormal body movements is reported. On thorough clinical evaluation, he was diagnosed to be a case of tuberous sclerosis. Over the skin of the face and forehead there were multiple papules of sebaceous adenoma. There was a hypopigmented patch (ash leaf spots) present over elbow of right arm. Fundus examination showed characteristic mulberry lesions of retina. CT scan of the skull showed subependymal hyperdense nodules along outer borders of lateral ventricle. This case report emphasizes the importance of complete evaluation of a case presenting with seizures. TSC must be included in the differentials of children presenting with seizures, developmental delay and mental retardation.
Dextran Sulfate Sodium (DSS)‐Induced Colitis in Mice
Authors: Chassaing Benoit , Aitken Jesse D. , Malleshappa Madhu , Vijay‐Kumar Matam
Published: February 2014

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), mainly comprising ulcerative colitis and Crohn's Disease, are complex and multifactorial diseases with unknown etiology. For the past 20 years, to study human IBD mechanistically, a number of murine models of colitis have been developed. These models are indispensable tools to decipher underlying mechanisms of IBD pathogenesis as well as to evaluate a number of potential therapeutics. Among various chemically induced colitis models, the dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐induced colitis model is widely used because of its simplicity and many similarities with human ulcerative colitis. This model has both advantages and disadvantages that must be considered when employed. This protocol describes the DSS‐induced colitis model, focusing on details and factors that could affect DSS‐induced pathology. Curr. Protoc. Immunol. 104:15.25.1‐15.25.14. © 2014 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Distinguishing high surf from volcanic long‐period earthquakes
Authors: Lyons John J. , Haney Matthew M. , Fee David , Paskievitch John F.
Published: February 2014

Repeating long‐period (LP) earthquakes are observed at active volcanoes worldwide and are typically attributed to unsteady pressure fluctuations associated with fluid migration through the volcanic plumbing system. Nonvolcanic sources of LP signals include ice movement and glacial outburst floods, and the waveform characteristics and frequency content of these events often make them difficult to distinguish from volcanic LP events. We analyze seismic and infrasound data from an LP swarm recorded at Pagan volcano on 12–14 October 2013 and compare the results to ocean wave data from a nearby buoy. We demonstrate that although the events show strong similarity to volcanic LP signals, the events are not volcanic but due to intense surf generated by a passing typhoon. Seismo‐acoustic methods allow for rapid distinction of volcanic LP signals from those generated by large surf and other sources, a critical task for volcano monitoring.
Photoelectron‐mediated spacecraft potential fluctuations
Authors: Wang X. , Malaspina D. M. , Ergun R. E. , Horányi M.
Published: February 2014

Electric field fluctuations such as those due to plasma waves in Earth's magnetosphere may modulate photoelectrons emitted from spacecraft surface, causing fluctuations in spacecraft potential. We experimentally investigate such photoelectron‐mediated spacecraft potential fluctuations. The photoelectric charge of a spacecraft model is found to increase with increasing applied electric field as more photoelectrons escape the spacecraft model surface and dissipates with a decrease in the electric field through collection of ambient plasma electrons. When the applied electric field is driven to oscillate at a frequency lower than the response frequency of the spacecraft model, the surface potential follows the electric field oscillations. The spacecraft model maintains an approximately constant potential if the electric field oscillations are driven at a much higher frequency. When a high‐frequency electric field modulated by a low‐frequency envelope is applied, rectified oscillations in the potential of the spacecraft model are observed. Our experimental results indicate that photoelectron‐mediated wave rectifications must be taken into account when spacecraft potential fluctuations are used to infer plasma density structures.
Large‐scale impact of Saharan dust on the North Atlantic Ocean circulation
Authors: Serra N. , Martínez Avellaneda N. , Stammer D.
Published: February 2014

The potential for a dynamical impact of Saharan mineral dust on the North Atlantic Ocean large‐scale circulation is investigated. To this end, an ocean general circulation model forced by atmospheric fluxes is perturbed by an idealized, seasonally varying, net shortwave flux anomaly, as it results from remote sensing observations of aerosol optical thickness representing Saharan dust load in the atmosphere. The dust dynamical impact on the circulation is assessed through a comparison between perturbed and an unperturbed run. Results suggest that, following the dust‐induced shortwave irradiance anomaly, a buoyancy anomaly is created in the Atlantic offshore the African coast, which over the course of the time propagates westward into the interior Atlantic while progressively subducting. Changes in the large‐scale barotropic and overturning circulations are significant after 3 years, which coincides with the elapsed time required by the bulk of the buoyancy perturbation to reach the western boundary of the North Atlantic. Although small in amplitude, the changes in the meridional overturning are of the same order as interannual‐to‐decadal variability. Variations in the amplitude of the forcing lead to changes in the amplitude of the response, which is almost linear during the first 3 years. In addition, a fast, but dynamically insignificant, response can be observed to propagate poleward along the eastern boundary of the North Atlantic, which contributes to a nonlinear response in the subpolar region north of 40°N.
Solar control of sodium escape from Io
Authors: Grava Cesare , Schneider Nicholas M. , Leblanc François , Morgenthaler Jeffrey P. , Mangano Valeria , Barbieri Cesare
Published: February 2014

We report ground‐based spectroscopic observations of the Io sodium cloud before and after eclipse by Jupiter, in a search for possible effects of sunlight on the total atomic sodium content in Io's exosphere. These observations test the importance of the Sun in maintaining the supply of atoms from the thicker atmosphere, which lies close to the surface, to the thinner, more extended, sodium cloud. We performed ground‐based spectroscopy of the sodium doublet at 589 nm with a high‐resolution échelle spectrograph on the Italian National Telescope Galileo on La Palma Island. We find that the total atomic sodium content immediately after eclipse falls by a factor of ~4 during eclipse and recovers to preeclipse values on a timescale of ~5 h. We evaluate potential causes of the precipitous drop including condensation of the atmosphere, collapse of the ionosphere, and changes in atmospheric chemistry. We conclude that most plausible cause of the drop in atomic sodium production is the interruption of photodissociation of sodium‐bearing molecules during eclipse. We discuss further implications of this change in atmospheric chemistry.
Virtual Options Program Offers Global Reach to Fall Meeting Presentations
Authors: Robichaux Emily
Published: February 2014

Through the Fall Meeting Virtual Options program, AGU expanded existing virtual offerings and piloted new concepts at the 2013 Fall Meeting. The program seeks to engage AGU members and the broader scientific community in a global knowledge‐sharing effort that goes beyond a physical meeting. This includes the dissemination of research outside the meeting venue and the inclusion of remote audiences and presenters in the on‐site discourse.
AGU Opens Its Doors, Shares Science With the Public
Authors: Tamalavage Annie , Adamec Bethany Holm
Published: February 2014

Imagine the United States without Los Angeles. That was the unnerving hypothetical posed by Lucile Jones to an audience of more than 100 people at AGU's annual public lecture on the opening day of the 2013 Fall Meeting. As the science advisor for risk reduction with the U.S. Geological Survey, Jones is a familiar face to many Californians—she is often interviewed in the wake of the state's frequent earthquakes. In her lecture, Jones explained that there is a high likelihood that a major quake will hit the Los Angeles region.
Global distribution and seasonal dependence of satellite‐based whitecap fraction
Authors: Salisbury Dominic J. , Anguelova Magdalena D. , Brooks Ian M.
Published: February 2014

We present the first study of global seasonal distributions of whitecap fraction, W, obtained from satellite‐based radiometric observations. Satellite‐based W incorporates variability from forcings other than wind speed and can capture differences in W in initial and late lifetime stages. The satellite‐based Wis more uniform latitudinally than predictions from a widely used wind speed‐dependent parameterization, W(U10), formulated from in situ observations, being on average higher than the W(U10) predictions at low latitudes and lower at middle and high latitudes. This difference provides an explanation for the consistent geographical biases in sea spray aerosol concentration found in a number of large‐scale models. Satellite estimates of W would benefit air‐sea interaction and remote sensing applications that use parameterizations in terms of W such as sea spray flux, gas transfer, and surface winds.
Mortality Trends in Patients With Early Rheumatoid Arthritis Over 20 Years: Results From the Norfolk Arthritis Register
Authors: Humphreys J. H. , Warner A. , Chipping J. , Marshall T. , Lunt M. , Symmons D. P. M. , Verstappen S. M. M.
Published: February 2014

Objective

To examine mortality rates in UK patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) from 1990–2011 and compare with population trends.

Methods

The Norfolk Arthritis Register (NOAR) recruited adults with ≥2 swollen joints for ≥4 weeks: cohort 1 (1990–1994), cohort 2 (1995–1999), and cohort 3 (2000–2004). At baseline, serum rheumatoid factor and anti–citrullinated protein antibody were measured and the 2010 American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism RA classification criteria were applied. Patients were followed for 7 years, until emigration or death. The UK Office for National Statistics notified the NOAR of the date and cause of deaths, and provided mortality rates for the Norfolk population. All‐cause and cardiovascular‐specific standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated. Poisson regression was used to compare mortality rate ratios (MRRs) between cohorts and then, with cubic splines, to model rates by calendar year. Analyses were performed in patients 1) with early inflammatory arthritis, 2) classified as having RA, and 3) autoantibody positive.

Results

A total of 2,517 patients were included, with 1,639 women (65%) and median age 55 years, and 1,419 (56%) fulfilled the 2010 RA criteria. All‐cause and cardiovascular‐specific SMRs were significantly elevated in the antibody‐positive groups. There was no change in mortality rates over time after accounting for changes in the population rates. In RA patients, all‐cause MRRs, compared to cohort 1, were 1.13 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.84–1.52) and 1.00 (95% CI 0.70–1.43) in cohorts 2 and 3, respectively.

Conclusion

Mortality rates were increased in patients with RA and SMRs were particularly elevated in those who were autoantibody positive. Compared to the general population, mortality rates have not improved over the past 20 years.
Dynamic Monitoring of Salmonella typhimurium Infection of Polarized Epithelia Using Organic Transistors
Authors: Tria Scherrine A. , Ramuz Marc , Huerta Miriam , Leleux Pierre , Rivnay Jonathan , Jimison Leslie H. , Hama Adel , Malliaras George G. , Owens Róisín M.
Published: February 2014

Ion flow across polarized epithelia is a tightly regulated process. Measurement of the transepithelial resistance is a highly relevant parameter for assessing the function or health of the tissue. Dynamic, electrical measurements of transepithelial ion flow are preferred as they provide the most accurate snapshot of effects of external stimuli. Enteric pathogens such as Salmonella typhimurium are known to disrupt ion flow in gastrointestinal epithelia. Here, for the first time, the use of organic transistors as a powerful potential alternative for front‐line, disposable, high‐throughput diagnostics of enteric pathogens is demonstrated. The transistors' ability to detect early and subtle changes in transepithelial ion flow is capitalized upon to develop a highly sensitive detector of epithelial integrity. Stable operation of the organic devices under physiological conditions is shown, followed by dynamic, pathogen‐specific diagnosis of infection of epithelia. Further, operation of the device is possible in complex matrices, showing particular promise for food and safety applications.
Carbons and Electrolytes for Advanced Supercapacitors
Authors: Béguin François , Presser Volker , Balducci Andrea , Frackowiak Elzbieta
Published: February 2014

Electrical energy storage (EES) is one of the most critical areas of technological research around the world. Storing and efficiently using electricity generated by intermittent sources and the transition of our transportation fleet to electric drive depend fundamentally on the development of EES systems with high energy and power densities. Supercapacitors are promising devices for highly efficient energy storage and power management, yet they still suffer from moderate energy densities compared to batteries. To establish a detailed understanding of the science and technology of carbon/carbon supercapacitors, this review discusses the basic principles of the electrical double‐layer (EDL), especially regarding the correlation between ion size/ion solvation and the pore size of porous carbon electrodes. We summarize the key aspects of various carbon materials synthesized for use in supercapacitors. With the objective of improving the energy density, the last two sections are dedicated to strategies to increase the capacitance by either introducing pseudocapacitive materials or by using novel electrolytes that allow to increasing the cell voltage. In particular, advances in ionic liquids, but also in the field of organic electrolytes, are discussed and electrode mass balancing is expanded because of its importance to create higher performance asymmetric electrochemical capacitors.
Graphene Based Non‐Volatile Memory Devices
Authors: Wang Xiaomu , Xie Weiguang , Xu Jian‐Bin
Published: February 2014

With the continuous advance of modern electronics, the demand for non‐volatile memory cells rapidly grows. As a promising material for post‐silicon electronic applications, graphene non‐volatile memory cells have received renewed interest due to its outstanding electronic and other physical properties. This research news briefly summarizes the recent progress in this area. Appealing research activities and technical trends are highlighted. Afterwards, requirements and aims of future graphene non‐volatile memory cells that may possibly influence their commercialization are also discussed.
Towards Long‐Term Photostability of Solid‐State Dye Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Pathak Sandeep K. , Abate Antonio , Leijtens Tomas , Hollman Derek J. , Teuscher Joël , Pazos Luis , Docampo Pablo , Steiner Ullrich , Snaith Henry J.
Published: February 2014

The solid‐state dye‐sensitized solar cell (DSSC) was introduced to overcome inherent manufacturing and instability issues of the electrolyte‐based DSSC and progress has been made to deliver high photovoltaic efficiencies at low cost. However, despite 15 years research and development, there still remains no clear demonstration of long‐term stability. Here, solid‐state DSSCs are subjected to the severe aging conditions of continuous illumination at an elevated temperature. A fast deterioration in performance is observed for devices encapsulated in the absence of oxygen. The photovoltaic performance recovers when re‐exposed to air. This reversible behavior is attributed to three related processes: i) the creation of light and oxygen sensitive electronic shunting paths between TiO2 and the top metal electrode, ii) increased recombination at the TiO2/organic interface, and iii) the creation of deep electron traps that reduce the photocurrent. The device deterioration is remedied by the formation of an insulating alumino‐silicate shell around the TiO2 nanocrystals, which reduces interfacial recombination, and the introduction of an insulating mesoporous SiO2 buffer layer between the top electrode and TiO2, which acts as a permanent insulating barrier between the TiO2 and the metal electrode, preventing shunting.
Survival of U.S. Sugar Beet Plants from 1897 to 2011
Authors: Risch Corey C. , Boland Michael A. , Crespi John M.
Published: February 2014

The objective of this research is to identify determinants that influence sugar beet plant survival. Important determinants identified from the literature are hypothesized to include capacity, market concentration, ownership, government policies, and historical industry events unique to this industry. As suggested by industrial organization theory, plants with greater capacity and multi‐plant firms have lower rates of closure. Likewise, the use of a high tariff on imports of refined sugar, the use of quotas on imports of sugar from various countries, and a price support program that encouraged plants to become more cost efficient have lessened the rates of closure.
Chiral 1,1′‐Binaphthyl‐2,2′‐Disulfonic Acid (BINSA) and Its Derivatives for Asymmetric Catalysis
Authors: Hatano Manabu , Ishihara Kazuaki
Published: February 2014

Chiral Brønsted acid catalysts, which are derived from commercially available (R)‐ or (S)‐ 1,1′‐bi‐2‐naphthol (BINOL), have found widespread application as chiral organocatalysts and chiral ligands for metal species. The Brønsted acidity of these catalysts is considered to be associated with their catalytic activity. Therefore, due to the rapid development of asymmetric organocatalysis, chiral 1,1′‐binaphthyl‐2,2′‐disulfonic acid (BINSA) and the corresponding chiral binaphthyl disulfonimides are highly attractive as stronger chiral Brønsted acid catalysts than carboxylic acids, phosphoric acids, and phosphoramides. This Focus Review summarizes the latest achievements in chiral BINSA chemistry, particularly in the field of asymmetric organocatalysis.
Tuning Ground States of Bis(triarylamine) Dications: From a Closed‐Shell Singlet to a Diradicaloid with an Excited Triplet State
Authors: Su Yuanting , Wang Xingyong , Zheng Xin , Zhang Zaichao , Song You , Sui Yunxia , Li Yizhi , Wang Xinping
Published: February 2014

Three bis(triarylamine) dications were isolated by using weakly coordinating anions. Their electronic structures in the ground state were investigated by various experiments in conjunction with theoretical calculations. The ground‐state electronic structures of these species were tunable by substituent effects, with two of them as closed‐shell singlets and one of them as an open‐shell singlet in the solid state. The excited state of the latter is thermally accessible, indicated by EPR and SQUID measurements. The work provides a new and stable diradicaloid structure motif with an excited triplet sate.
Synthesis of polypropylene‐grafted graphene and its compatibilization effect on polypropylene/polystyrene blends
Authors: You Feng , Wang Dongrui , Li Xinxin , Liu Meijing , Dang Zhi‐Min , Hu Guo‐Hua
Published: February 2014

Polypropylene‐graft‐reduced graphene oxide (PP‐g‐rGO) was synthesized and used as a novel compatibilizer for PP/polystyrene (PP/PS) immiscible polymer blends. SEM observation revealed an obvious reduction of the average diameter for the dispersed PS phase with the addition of PP‐g‐rGO into a PP/PS (70/30, w/w) blend. The compatibilization effect of PP‐g‐rGO will subsequently lead to the enhancement of the tensile strength and elongation at break of the PP/PS blends. The compatibilizing mechanism should be ascribed to the fact that PP‐g‐rGO can not only adsorb PS chains on their basal planes through π‐π stacking but also exhibit intermolecular interactions with PP through the grafted PP chains. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40455.
Between Surface and Summit: the Process of Mound Construction at Feltus
Authors: Kassabaum Megan C. , Henry Edward R. , Steponaitis Vincas P. , O'hear John W.
Published: February 2014

Geophysical methods that explore depths more than 1 m below the surface were employed at Feltus (22Je500), a Coles Creek period (ad 700–1200) mound‐and‐plaza group in southwestern Mississippi, USA. It is difficult to assess the internal structure of large platform mounds such as those at Feltus using excavation and traditional geophysical techniques alone. As a result, such investigations often focus only on activities that took place during and after the final stage(s) of construction. Our 2012 research at Feltus utilized electrical resistivity tomography and downhole magnetic susceptibility to examine the internal structure of two platform mounds at depths beyond those commonly targeted by shallow techniques. These methods revealed mound stages, prepared floors, midden and pit features, and construction attributes within the fill episodes. By refocusing our attention on the process of mound building rather than the final use of the mound summits, this research broadened our view of the role of monuments in creating and strengthening community ties. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
CD44 and Hyaluronan Promote the Bone Morphogenetic Protein 7 Signaling Response in Murine Chondrocytes
Authors: Luo Na , Knudson Warren , Askew Emily B. , Veluci Roberta , Knudson Cheryl B.
Published: February 2014

Objective

Cell–matrix interactions promote cartilage homeostasis. We previously found that Smad1, the transcriptional modulator of the canonical bone morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP‐7) pathway, interacted with the cytoplasmic domain of CD44, the principal hyaluronan receptor on chondrocytes. To elucidate the physiologic function of CD44–Smad1 interactions, as well as the role of hyaluronan, we studied the response of chondrocytes isolated from CD44–/– and BALB/c (wild‐type [WT]) mice to stimulation with BMP‐7.

Methods

In primary murine chondrocytes, CD44 expression was decreased by small interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection or was enhanced by plasmid transfection. Pericellular hyaluronan was removed by hyaluronidase treatment, or its endogenous synthesis was inhibited. Changes in response to BMP‐7 stimulation were evaluated by Western blotting of Smad1 phosphorylation and aggrecan messenger RNA (mRNA) expression.

Results

Chondrocytes from CD44–/– mice and WT mice transfected with CD44 siRNA were less responsive than untransfected chondrocytes from WT mice to BMP‐7. CD44–/– mouse chondrocytes transfected with pCD44 showed increased sensitivity to BMP‐7. Significant increases in aggrecan mRNA were observed in WT mouse chondrocytes in response to 10 ng/ml of BMP‐7, whereas at least 100 ng/ml of BMP‐7 was required for CD44–/– mouse chondrocytes. However, in chondrocytes from CD44–/– and WT mice, hyaluronidase treatment decreased cellular responses to BMP‐7. Treatment of both bovine and murine chondrocytes with 4‐methylumbelliferone to reduce the synthesis of endogenous hyaluronan confirmed that hyaluronan promoted BMP‐7 signaling.

Conclusion

Taken together, these investigations into the mechanisms underlying BMP‐7 signaling in chondrocytes revealed that while hyaluronan‐dependent pericellular matrix is critical for BMP‐7 signaling, the expression of CD44 promotes the cellular response to lower concentrations of BMP‐7.
Peptidylarginine Deiminase 4 Contributes to Tumor Necrosis Factor α–Induced Inflammatory Arthritis
Authors: Shelef Miriam A. , Sokolove Jeremy , Lahey Lauren J. , Wagner Catriona A. , Sackmann Eric K. , Warner Thomas F. , Wang Yanming , Beebe David J. , Robinson William H. , Huttenlocher Anna
Published: February 2014

Objective

Peptidylarginine deiminase 4 (PAD4) is a citrullinating enzyme that has multiple associations with inflammation. In rheumatoid arthritis, PAD4 and protein citrullination are increased in inflamed joints, and anti–citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs) form against citrullinated antigens are formed. ACPA immune complexes can deposit in the joint and induce the production of tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), a critical inflammatory cytokine in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. Further, in other settings, TNFα has been shown to induce PAD4 activity and modulate antibody formation. We undertook this study to investigate whether TNFα and PAD4 may synergistically exacerbate autoantibody production and inflammatory arthritis.

Methods

To determine whether TNFα and PAD4 augment autoantibody production and inflammatory arthritis, we first used a multiplex assay to determine whether mice with chronic inflammatory arthritis due to overexpression of TNFα develop autoantibodies against native and citrullinated antigens. With TNF+ PAD4+/+ and TNF+PAD4−/− mice, we then compared serum autoantibody levels by multiplex array, lymphocyte activation by flow cytometry, total serum IgG levels by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, arthritis by clinical and histologic scoring, and systemic inflammation using microfluidic devices.

Results

TNFα‐overexpressing mice had increased levels of autoantibodies reactive against native and citrullinated antigens. PAD4−/− mice with TNFα‐induced arthritis had lower levels of autoantibodies reactive against native and citrullinated antigens, decreased T cell activation and total IgG levels, and reduced inflammation and arthritis compared to PAD4+/+ TNFα‐overexpressing mice.

Conclusion

PAD4 mediates autoantibody production and inflammatory arthritis downstream of TNFα.
Impact of tropical instability waves‐induced SST forcing on the atmosphere in the tropical Pacific, evaluated using CAM5.1
Authors: Zhang Rong‐Hua , Li Zhongxian , Zhu Jieshun , Kang Xianbiao , Min Jinzhong
Published: February 2014

A new version of the Community Atmospheric Model, CAM5.1, is used to quantify the impacts of tropical instability waves (TIWs)‐induced sea surface temperature (SSTTIW) forcing on the atmosphere over the central‐eastern tropical Pacific. Two CAM5.1‐based simulations are performed, a control run in which monthly mean climatological SST (SSTclim) field is prescribed as a surface boundary condition, and a perturbation run in which daily varying SSTTIW field explicitly extracted from satellite data is superimposed onto the SSTclim field to force the CAM5.1. It is illustrated that the additionally imposed SSTTIW forcing acts to have a significant effect on TIW‐scale variability and mean atmospheric circulation structure over the central‐eastern tropical Pacific.
Genetically encoded reactive oxygen species (ROS) and redox indicators
Authors: Pouvreau Sandrine
Published: February 2014

Redox processes are increasingly being recognized as key elements in the regulation of cellular signaling cascades. They are frequently encountered at the frontier between physiological functions and pathological events. The biological relevance of intracellular redox changes depends on the subcellular origin, the spatio‐temporal distribution and the redox couple involved. Thus, a key task in the elucidation of the role of redox reactions is the specific and quantitative measurement of redox conditions with high spatio‐temporal resolution. Unfortunately, until recently, our ability to perform such measurements was limited by the lack of adequate technology. Over the last 10 years, promising imaging tools have been developed from fluorescent proteins. Genetically encoded reactive oxygen species (ROS) and redox indicators (GERRIs) have the potential to allow real‐time and pseudo‐quantitative monitoring of specific ROS and thiol redox state in subcellular compartments or live organisms. Redox‐sensitive yellow fluorescent proteins (rxYFP family), redox‐sensitive green fluorescent proteins (roGFP family), HyPer (a probe designed to measure H2O2), circularly permuted YFP and others have been used in several models and sufficient information has been collected to highlight their main characteristics. This review is intended to be a tour guide of the main types of GERRIs, their origins, properties, advantages and pitfalls.
Biofilm growth: A multi‐scale and coupled fluid‐structure interaction and mass transport approach
Authors: Coroneo Mirella , Yoshihara Lena , Wall Wolfgang A.
Published: February 2014

In this paper, we propose a novel approach for modelling biofilm growth. It is based on a finite element method and includes both fluid–structure interaction (FSI) as well as scalar transport effects. Due to the different time‐scales of the involved phenomena, the growth of the biofilm structure is coupled with the FSI and mass transport through a multi‐scale approach in time. In each hydrodynamic time step, first the non‐linear FSI problem is solved followed by the scalar transport equations, using the information on velocities and deformations obtained in the FSI step. After a steady state solution is reached, information on mass fluxes and stresses are passed to the growth model. At this point, the growth is calculated for a biological time step larger than the hydrodynamic one and based on the mass flux through the interface and on normal and shear stresses on it. This type of approach can significantly contribute to the understanding of biofilm development in fluid flows, since the influence of hydrodynamic conditions and availability of nutrients is well known to have effects on biofilm development. Therefore, for the purpose of understanding biofilm macro‐scale dynamics, it is essential to adopt a modeling approach, which takes into account all the relevant aspects, like fluid flow, structure deformation, mass transport and their effect on biofilm growth and erosion. First numerical examples demonstrate the suitability of the proposed model to catch the main features of a growing biofilm structure. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2014;111: 1385–1395. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Blue dye is sufficient for sentinel lymph node biopsy in breast cancer
Authors: Ang C H , Tan M Y , Teo C , Seah D W , Chen J C , Chan M Y P , Tan E Y
Published: February 2014

Background

Most previous studies have reported superior results when blue dye and radiocolloids were used together for sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy in early breast cancer. Blue dye was reported to perform poorly when used alone, although more recent studies have found otherwise. This study reviewed the authors' practice of performing SLN biopsy with blue dye alone.

Methods

This was a retrospective review of patients who underwent SLN biopsy using blue dye alone from 2001 to 2005, when SLN biopsy was performed selectively and always followed by axillary lymph node dissection (ALND), and from 2006 to 2010, when SLN biopsy was offered to all suitable patients and ALND done only when the SLN was not identified or positive for metastasis.

Results

Between 2001 and 2005, 170 patients underwent SLN biopsy with blue dye alone. The overall SLN non-identification rate was 8·4 per cent. The overall false-negative rate was 34 per cent, but decreased with each subsequent year to 13 per cent in 2005. From 2006 to 2010, 610 patients underwent SLN biopsy with blue dye alone. The SLN was not identified in 12 patients (2·0 per cent) and no significant contributing factor was identified. A median of 2 (range 1–11) SLNs were identified. A non-SLN was found to be positive for metastasis in two patients with negative SLNs. Axillary nodal recurrence developed in one patient; none developed internal mammary nodal recurrence. Anaphylaxis occurred in one patient.

Conclusion

Blue dye performed well as a single modality for SLN biopsy. Non-identification, axillary nodal recurrence and serious allergic reactions were uncommon.
Risk of desmoid tumours after open and laparoscopic colectomy in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis
Authors: Vitellaro M , Sala P , Signoroni S , Radice P , Fortuzzi S , Civelli E M , Ballardini G , Kleiman D A , Morrissey K P , Bertario L
Published: February 2014

Background

Desmoid tumour (DT) is a main cause of death after prophylactic colectomy in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of prophylactic laparoscopic colectomy on the risk of developing DT in patients with FAP.

Methods

The database of a single institution was reviewed. Patients with classical FAP with defined genotype who underwent either open or laparoscopic colectomy between 1947 and 2011 were included in the study. The impact of various demographic and clinical features on the risk of developing DT was assessed.

Results

A total of 672 patients underwent prophylactic colectomy: 602 by an open and 70 by a laparoscopic approach. With a median (range) follow-up of 132 (0–516) months in the open group and 60 (12–108) months in the laparoscopic group, 98 patients (16·3 per cent) developed DT after an open procedure compared with three (4 per cent) following laparoscopic surgery. The estimated cumulative risk of developing DT at 5 years after surgery was 13·0 per cent in the open group and 4 per cent in the laparoscopic group (P = 0·042). In multivariable analysis, female sex (hazard ratio (HR) 2·18, 95 per cent confidence interval 1·40 to 3·39), adenomatous polyposis coli mutation distal to codon 1400 (HR 3·85, 1·90 to 7·80), proctocolectomy (HR 1·67, 1·06 to 2·61), open colectomy (HR 6·84, 1·96 to 23·98) and year of surgery (HR 1·04, 1·01 to 1·07) were independent risk factors for the diagnosis of DT after prophylactic surgery.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic surgery decreased the risk of DT after prophylactic colectomy in patients with FAP.
Meta-analysis of postoperative morbidity and perioperative mortality in patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy for resectable oesophageal and gastro-oesophageal junctional cancers
Authors: Kumagai K , Rouvelas I , Tsai J A , Mariosa D , Klevebro F , Lindblad M , Ye W , Lundell L , Nilsson M
Published: February 2014

Background

The long-term survival benefits of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) and chemoradiotherapy (NACR) for oesophageal carcinoma are well established. Both are burdened, however, by toxicity that could contribute to perioperative morbidity and mortality.

Methods

MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library and Embase were searched to capture the incidence of any postoperative complications, cardiac complications, respiratory complications, anastomotic leakage, postoperative 30-day mortality, total postoperative mortality and treatment-related mortality in randomized clinical trials comparing NAC or NACR with surgery alone, or NACversus NACR. Meta-analyses comparing NAC and NACR were conducted by using adjusted indirect comparison.

Results

Twenty-three relevant studies were identified. Comparing NAC or NACR with surgery alone, there was no increase in morbidity or mortality attributable to neoadjuvant therapy. Subgroup analysis of NACR for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) suggested an increased risk of total postoperative mortality and treatment-related mortality compared with surgery alone: risk ratio 1·95 (95 per cent confidence interval 1·06 to 3·60; P = 0·032) and 1·97 (1·07 to 3·64; P = 0·030) respectively. A combination of direct comparison and adjusted indirect comparison showed no difference between NACR and NAC regarding morbidity or mortality.

Conclusion

Neither NAC nor NACR for oesophageal carcinoma increases the risk of postoperative morbidity or perioperative mortality compared with surgery alone. There was no clear difference between NAC and NACR. Care should be taken with NACR in oesophageal SCC, where an increased risk of postoperative mortality and treatment-related mortality was apparent.
Special pattern of endochondral ossification in human laryngeal cartilages: X‐ray and light‐microscopic studies on thyroid cartilage
Authors: Claassen Horst , Schicht Martin , Sel Saadettin , Paulsen Friedrich
Published: February 2014

Endochondral ossification is a process that also occurs in the skeleton of the larynx. Differences in the ossification mechanism in comparison to growth plates are not understood until now. To get deeper insights into this process, human thyroid cartilage was investigated by the use of X‐rays and a series of light‐microscopic stainings. A statistical analysis of mineralization was done by scanning areas of mineralized cartilage and of ossification. We detected a special mode of endochondral ossification which differs from the processes in growth plates. Thyroid cartilage ossifies very slowly and in a gender‐specific manner. Compared with age‐matched women, bone formation in thyroid cartilage of men is significantly higher in the age group 41–60 years. Endochondral ossification is prepared by internal changes of extracellular matrix leading to areas of asbestoid fibers with ingrowing cartilage canals. In contrast to growth plates, bone is deposited on large areas of mineralized cartilage, which appear at the rims of cartilage canals. Furthermore, primary parallel fibered bone was observed which was deposited on woven bone. The predominant bone type is cancellous bone with trabeculae, whereas compact bone with Haversian systems was seldom found. Trabeculae contain a great number of reversal and arresting lines meaning that the former were often reconstructed and that bone formation was arrested and resumed again with advancing age. It is hypothesized that throughout life trabeculae of ossified thyroid cartilage undergo adaptation to different loads due to the use of voice. Clin. Anat. 27:423–430, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Spinal diffusion tensor imaging: A comprehensive review with emphasis on spinal cord anatomy and clinical applications
Authors: Hendrix Philipp , Griessenauer Christoph J. , Cohen‐Adad Julien , Rajasekaran Shanmuganathan , Cauley Keith A. , Shoja Mohammadali M. , Pezeshk Parham , Tubbs R. Shane
Published: February 2014

Magnetic resonance imaging technology allows for in vivo visualization of fiber tracts of the central nervous system using diffusion‐weighted imaging sequences and data processing referred to as “diffusion tensor imaging” and “diffusion tensor tractography.” While protocols for high‐fidelity diffusion tensor imaging of the brain are well established, the spinal cord has proven a more difficult target for diffusion tensor methods. Here, we review the current literature on spinal diffusion tensor imaging and tractography with special emphasis on neuroanatomical correlations and clinical applications. Clin. Anat. 28:88–95, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hydrothermal Carbonization of Biomass: Major Organic Components of the Aqueous Phase
Authors: Becker Roland , Dorgerloh Ute , Paulke Ellen , Mumme Jan , Nehls Irene
Published: February 2014

Process waters obtained from hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) of wheat straw, a biogas digestate derived thereof, and four woody biomass feedstocks were quantified regarding the total organic carbon (TOC) and selected organic compounds. HTC runs revealed that TOC loads were largely unaffected by process severity or type of feedstock whereas the C2–C6 fatty acids, determined by GC, displayed clear effects of temperature and feedstock. HPLC demonstrated simultaneously the initial increase and subsequent consumption of cellulose‐derived furfural and 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural as well as the increase of the lignin‐derived 2‐methoxyphenol. 2‐Methylbenzofuran, an example for a substance potentially harmful to aquatic biota, was observed in high concentration in the HTC liquor from wheat straw‐based feedstocks.