bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proportionate flow shop: New complexity results and models with due date assignment
Authors: Panwalkar S.S. , Koulamas Christos
Published: January 2015

It is known that the proportionate flow shop minimum makespan problem is solved optimally by any permutation job sequence. We show that the problem is at least ordinary NP‐hard when missing operations are allowed and present some solvable cases. We then consider the standard proportionate flow shop problem (with no missing operations) and show that the solution algorithms for a class of single‐machine due date assignment problems can be extended/generalized to the corresponding proportionate flow shop problems. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics 62: 98–106, 2015
Online traveling salesman problems with rejection options
Authors: Jaillet Patrick , Lu Xin
Published: January 2015

In this article, we consider online versions of the traveling salesman problem on metric spaces for which requests to visit points are not mandatory. Associated with each request is a penalty (if rejected). Requests are revealed over time (at their release dates) to a server who must decide which requests to accept and serve in order to minimize a linear combination of the time to serve all accepted requests and the total penalties of all rejected requests. In the basic online version of the problem, a request can be accepted any time after its release date. In the real‐time online version, a request must be accepted or rejected at the time of its release date. For the basic version, we provide a best possible 2‐competitive online algorithm for the problem on a general metric space. For the real‐time version, we first consider special metric spaces: on the nonnegative real line, we provide a best possible 2.5‐competitive polynomial time online algorithm; on the real line, we prove a lower bound of 2.64 on any competitive ratios and give a 3‐competitive online algorithm. We then consider the case of a general metric space and prove a lower bound on the competitive ratio of any online algorithms. Finally, among the restricted class of online algorithms with prior knowledge about the total number of requests n, we propose an asymptotically best possible ‐competitive algorithm. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 64(2), 84–95 2014
X‐linked spinal muscular atrophy in mice caused by autonomous loss of ATP7A in the motor neuron
Authors: Hodgkinson Victoria L , Dale Jeffery M , Garcia Michael L , Weisman Gary A , Lee Jaekwon , Gitlin Jonathan D , Petris Michael J
Published: January 2015

ATP7A is a copper‐transporting P‐type ATPase that is essential for cellular copper homeostasis. Loss‐of‐function mutations in the ATP7A gene result in Menkes disease, a fatal neurodegenerative disorder resulting in seizures, hypotonia and failure to thrive, due to systemic copper deficiency. Most recently, rare missense mutations in ATP7A that do not impact systemic copper homeostasis have been shown to cause X‐linked spinal muscular atrophy type 3 (SMAX3), a distal hereditary motor neuropathy. An understanding of the mechanistic and pathophysiological basis of SMAX3 is currently lacking, in part because the disease‐causing mutations have been shown to confer both loss‐ and gain‐of‐function properties to ATP7A, and because there is currently no animal model of the disease. In this study, the Atp7a gene was specifically deleted in the motor neurons of mice, resulting in a degenerative phenotype consistent with the clinical features in affected patients with SMAX3, including the progressive deterioration of gait, age‐dependent muscle atrophy, denervation of neuromuscular junctions and a loss of motor neuron cell bodies. Taken together, these data reveal autonomous requirements for ATP7A that reveal essential roles for copper in the maintenance and function of the motor neuron, and suggest that SMAX3 is caused by a loss of ATP7A function that specifically impacts the spinal motor neuron. Copyright © 2015 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mechanical, ablative, and thermal properties of cenosphere‐filled ceramic/phenolic composites
Authors: Ravichandran Balaji , Sasikumar M.
Published: January 2015

This study mainly deals with cenosphere‐filled phenolic resin‐based composite that is prepared using ceramic‐ceramic fiber as reinforcement by traditional hand layup technique. The effect of cenosphere at various percentage is investigated on the mechanical, ablative, and thermal properties of the filled composites. Mechanical investigation revealed that the addition of microsized cenosphere up to 10% concentration increased the tensile strength of the composite. It is also observed that the addition of cenosphere increased the compressive strength and impact resistance of the composites. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and ablative test revealed that the addition of cenosphere not only decreased both linear and mass ablative rates but also increased the upper working temperature of the filled ceramic/phenolic composites. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:1906–1913, 2016. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effects of surface modification with 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane on structure and mechanical property of multiwalled carbon nanotube/polycarbonate composites
Authors: Zhao Yuanxu , Wang Bo , Chen Weiwei , Li An , Zheng Guoqiang , Liu Chuntai , Chen Jingbo , Shen Changyu
Published: January 2015

Hydroxyl functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes (H‐MWNTs) were silanized using 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) in order to improve the dispersion and interfacial interaction in composites. MWNT/polycarbonate (PC) composites filled with H‐MWNTs and silanized MWNTs (S‐MWNTs) were fabricated by melt mixing and injection molding. Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR) and energy dispersion X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) were employed to prove the presence of APTES on the surface of S‐MWNTs. In addition, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was used to evaluate the relative amount of introduced APTES. The microstructure and mechanical property of both composites were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), tensile test and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). The SEM and TEM images showed that S‐MWNT/PC composites had better dispersion and interfacial adhesion than H‐MWNT/PC composites. A reinforcing and toughening effect on tensile behavior of composites was obtained after silane functionalization. The storage modulus of composites increased markedly as a function of MWNTs content, especially for the composites with S‐MWNTs. In summary, the silanization can improve the dispersion of MWNTs and the interfacial adhesion between MWNTs and PC so as to enhance the mechanical properties of composites. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:1914–1923, 2016. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effect of carbon nanotube dispersion on electrochemical and mechanical characteristics of poly(methyl methacrylate)‐based gel polymer electrolytes
Authors: Sharma R. , Sil A. , Ray S.
Published: January 2015

Polymer‐based electrolyte of lithium ion batteries and other devices have shortcomings of low ionic conductivity and inadequate mechanical strength. The study presents the preparation of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)‐based three‐layered nanocomposite gel polymer electrolytes (NCGPEs) having multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) dispersed in the middle layer of the composites and the effect of dispersoid quantities on the ionic, mechanical, and thermal characteristics of the electrolytes. The NCGPEs were synthesized by solution cast process with the various MWCNTs contents of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 wt%. Morphology of the NCGPEs has been observed by scanning and transmission electron microscopes (SEMs). Interactions between the constituents of the composite and structural changes of the base polymer were investigated by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. The mechanical strength of the NCGPEs increases considerably owing to the dispersion of MWCNTs and the highest strength was found for the dispersion of 2.0 wt% of MWCNTs. The thermal stability of the nanocomposites was investigated by thermo‐gravimetric analysis (TGA). The chemical decomposition temperature of the nanocomposites increases considerably as compared to the gel polymer electrolyte. Ionic conductivity of the composite electrolyte increases with the increase in addition of MWCNTs and the maximum ionic conductivity (10−3 S cm−1) of the nanocomposite has been found with the dispersion of 2.0 wt% MWCNTs among all the dispersoid. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:1936–1944, 2016. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
An alternative method for serum protein depletion/enrichment by precipitation at mildly acidic pH values and low ionic strength
Authors: Henning Ann‐Kristin , Albrecht Dirk , Riedel Katharina , Mettenleiter Thomas C. , Karger Axel
Published: January 2015

Serum proteome analysis is severely hampered by the extreme dynamic range of protein concentrations, but tools for the specific depletion of highly abundant serum proteins lack for most farm and companion animals. A well‐established alternative strategy to reduce the dynamic range of plasma protein concentrations, treatment with combinatorial peptide ligand libraries (CPLL), is generally applicable but requires large amounts of sample. Therefore, additional depletion/enrichment protocols for plasma and serum samples from animals are desirable. In this respect, we have tested a protein precipitate that formed after withdrawal of salt from human, bovine, or porcine serum at pH 4.2. The bovine sample was composed of over 300 proteins making it a potential source for biomarker discovery. Precipitation was highly reproducible and the concentrations of albumin and other highly abundant serum proteins were strongly reduced. In comparison to the CPLL treatment, precipitation did not introduce any selection bias based on hydrophathy or pI. However, the composition of both preparations was partially complementary. Salt withdrawal at pH 4.2 is suggested as additional depletion/enrichment strategy for serum samples. Also, we point out that the removal of precipitates from serum samples under the described conditions bears the risk of losing a valuable protein fraction.
Visualization of LC‐MS/MS proteomics data in MaxQuant
Authors: Tyanova Stefka , Temu Tikira , Carlson Arthur , Sinitcyn Pavel , Mann Matthias , Cox Juergen
Published: January 2015

Modern software platforms enable the analysis of shotgun proteomics data in an automated fashion resulting in high quality identification and quantification results. Additional understanding of the underlying data can be gained with the help of advanced visualization tools that allow for easy navigation through large LC‐MS/MS datasets potentially consisting of terabytes of raw data. The updated MaxQuant version has a map navigation component that steers the users through mass and retention time‐dependent mass spectrometric signals. It can be used to monitor a peptide feature used in label‐free quantification over many LC‐MS runs and visualize it with advanced 3D graphic models. An expert annotation system aids the interpretation of the MS/MS spectra used for the identification of these peptide features.
Programmed cell death 6 interacting protein (PDCD6IP) and Rabenosyn‐5 (ZFYVE20) are potential urinary biomarkers for upper gastrointestinal cancer
Authors: Husi Holger , Skipworth Richard J. E. , Cronshaw Andrew , Stephens Nathan A. , Wackerhage Henning , Greig Carolyn , Fearon Kenneth C. H. , Ross James A.
Published: January 2015

Purpose

Cancer of the upper digestive tract (uGI) is a major contributor to cancer‐related death worldwide. Due to a rise in occurrence, together with poor survival rates and a lack of diagnostic or prognostic clinical assays, there is a clear need to establish molecular biomarkers.

Experimental design

Initial assessment was performed on urine samples from 60 control and 60 uGI cancer patients using MS to establish a peak pattern or fingerprint model, which was validated by a further set of 59 samples.

Results

We detected 86 cluster peaks by MS above frequency and detection thresholds. Statistical testing and model building resulted in a peak profiling model of five relevant peaks with 88% overall sensitivity and 91% specificity, and overall correctness of 90%. High‐resolution MS of 40 samples in the 2–10 kDa range resulted in 646 identified proteins, and pattern matching identified four of the five model peaks within significant parameters, namely programmed cell death 6 interacting protein (PDCD6IP/Alix/AIP1), Rabenosyn‐5 (ZFYVE20), protein S100A8, and protein S100A9, of which the first two were validated by Western blotting.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

We demonstrate that MS analysis of human urine can identify lead biomarker candidates in uGI cancers, which makes this technique potentially useful in defining and consolidating biomarker patterns for uGI cancer screening.
Handedness preference and switching of peptide helices. Part II: Helices based on noncodedα‐amino acids
Authors: Crisma Marco , De Zotti Marta , Formaggio Fernando , Peggion Cristina , Moretto Alessandro , Toniolo Claudio
Published: January 2015

In this second part of our review article on the preferred screw sense and interconversion of peptide helices, we discuss the most significant computational and experimental data published on helices formed by the most extensively investigated categories of noncodedα‐amino acids. They are as follows: (i)N‐alkylated Gly residues (peptoids), (ii) Cα‐alkylatedα‐amino acids, (iii) Cα,β‐sp2configuratedα‐amino acids, and (iv) combinations of residues of types (ii) and (iii). With confidence, the large body of interesting papers examined and classified in this editorial effort will stimulate the development of helical peptides in many diverse areas of biosciences and nanosciences. Copyright © 2015 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of surface ligands on energetic disorder and charge transport of P3HT:CdSe hybrid solar cells
Authors: Li Lijun , Greaney Matthew J. , Li Kejia , Sachdeva Angad , Brutchey Richard L. , Campbell Joe C.
Published: January 2015

In this work, the effects of surface ligands of cadmium selenide (CdSe) nanocrystals on energetic disorder and charge transport of poly (3‐hexylthiophene‐2,5‐diyl):cadmium selenide (P3HT:CdSe) hybrid bulk heterojunction solar cells were studied. Photo‐induced current transient spectroscopy (PICTS) was employed to quantitatively characterize the trap state energies in P3HT:CdSe hybrid solar cells from pyridine (Py) and tert‐butylthiol (tBT) treated CdSe nanocrystals. A data processing workflow to extract the trap emission spectra was implemented in the form of solving an inverse problem with regularization techniques. We observed significant differences in the trap state distribution in P3HT:CdSe(tBT) compared to P3HT:CdSe(Py) solar cells, and we found that devices based on P3HT:CdSe(Py) had deeper level trap states. Additionally, transient photoconductivity measurements were performed on P3HT:CdSe solar cells for the purpose of examining the effects of ligands on charge transport. The results were self‐consistent with PICTS analysis in that P3HT:CdSe(tBT) devices exhibited a greater than three‐fold enhancement in carrier mobility relative to P3HT:CdSe(Py) devices, which we attributed to a decreased depth of trap states.
Efficiency droop and carrier transport in AlGaN epilayers and heterostructures
Authors: Mickevičius J. , Tamulaitis G. , Jurkevičius J. , Shur M. S. , Shatalov M. , Yang J. , Gaska R.
Published: January 2015

The photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy of AlGaN epilayers and heterostructures under quasi‐steady‐state conditions at different excitations in a wide temperature range from 8 to 300 K established the connection between the internal quantum efficiency, efficiency droop, and carrier localization. The carrier localization conditions were estimated from the temperature dependences of the PL band peak positions. The temperature dependences of the PL intensity were fitted using the Arrhenius‐type equation with two activation energies, which were attributed to the carrier redistribution within the localized states and carrier delocalization, respectively. The delocalization of the localized carriers affects the luminescence efficiency via the enhancement of the two mechanisms of opposite signs: the bimolecular radiative recombination and nonradiative recombination due to an increased probability to reach nonradiative recombination centers.
Inhibitory Mechanisms of Human CYPs by Three Alkaloids Isolated from Traditional Chinese Herbs
Authors: Zhao Yong , Hellum Bent Håvard , Liang Aihua , Nilsen Odd Georg
Published: January 2015

The three purified herbal compounds tetrahydropalmatine (Tet), neferine and berberine (Ber) were explored in vitro for basic inhibition mechanisms towards recombinant human CYP1A2, CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 metabolic activities. Phenacetin, dextromethorphan and testosterone, respectively, were used as CYP1A2, CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 substrates, and their metabolites were determined by validated HPLC methodologies. Positive inhibition controls were used. Mechanism‐based (irreversible) inhibition was assessed by time‐dependent and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate‐dependent and reversible inhibition by Lineweaver–Burk plot assessments. Inhibition mechanisms were also assessed by computerized interaction prediction by using the Discovery Studio CDOCKER software (Accelrys, San Diego, CA, USA). Tetrahydropalmatine showed a mechanism‐based inhibition of both CYP1A2 and CYP2D6, and Ber of CYP2D6. Neferine and Ber both showed a nonmechanistic inhibition of CYP1A2. All compounds showed a similar and significant mechanism‐based inhibition of CYP3A4. Tetrahydropalmatine and Ber demonstrated both reversible and irreversible inhibition of CYP2D6 and CYP3A4. Tetrahydropalmatine and Ber displayed H‐bond and several Pi‐bond connections with specific amino acid residues of CYP1A2, CYP2D6 and CYP3A4, giving further knowledge to the identified reversible and irreversible herb–drug interactions. Tetrahydropalmatine and Ber should be considered for herb–drug interactions in clinical therapy until relevant clinical studies are available. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Continuous output‐feedback finite‐time control for a class of second‐order nonlinear systems with disturbances
Authors: Liu Haitao , Zhang Tie , Tian Xuehong
Published: January 2015

In this paper, a solution to the continuous output‐feedback finite‐time control problem is proposed for a class of second‐order MIMO nonlinear systems with disturbances. First, a continuous finite‐time controller is designed to stabilize system states at equilibrium points in finite time, which is proven correct by a constructive Lyapunov function. Next, because only the measured output is available for feedback, a continuous nonlinear observer is presented to reconstruct the total states in finite time and estimate the unknown disturbances. Then, a continuous output‐feedback finite‐time controller is proposed to track the desired trajectory accurately or alternatively converge to an arbitrarily small region in finite time. Finally, proposed methods are applied to robotic manipulators, and simulations are given to illustrate the applicability of the proposed control approach. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Seeker—Autonomous Long‐range Rover Navigation for Remote Exploration
Authors: Woods Mark , Shaw Andrew , Tidey Estelle , Van Pham Bach , Simon Lacroix , Mukherji Raja , Maddison Brian , Cross Gary , Kisdi Aron , Tubby Wayne , Visentin Gianfranco , Chong Guillermo
Published: January 2015

Under the umbrella of the European Space Agency (ESA) StarTiger program, a rapid prototyping study called Seeker was initiated. A range of partners from space and nonspace sectors were brought together to develop a prototype Mars rover system capable of autonomously exploring several kilometers of highly representative Mars terrain over a three‐day period. This paper reports on our approach and the final field trials that took place in the Atacama Desert, Chile. Long‐range navigation and the associated remote rover field trials are a new departure for ESA, and this activity therefore represents a novel initiative in this area. The primary focus was to determine if current computer vision and artificial intelligence based software could enable such a capability on Mars, given the current limit of around 200 m per Martian day. The paper does not seek to introduce new theoretical techniques or compare various approaches, but it offers a unique perspective on their behavior in a highly representative environment. The final system autonomously navigated 5.05 km in highly representative terrain during one day. This work is part of a wider effort to achieve a step change in autonomous capability for future Mars/lunar exploration rover platforms.
A robust prediction method of surface deflection using stoning simulation and curvature analysis
Authors: Chung Wan‐Jin , Chung Yun‐Chan , Kim Woo‐Sung
Published: January 2015

Recently, numerical predictions for surface deflection by finite element analysis have been carried out actively by various methods, such as curvature analysis, stoning simulation, and highlighting. Measures of surface deflection based on curvature analysis had been proposed by several researchers and have shown good correspondence with experimental results. The maximum variation of curvature difference between the panel and the tool was also proposed as a measure for surface deflection. However, the curvature is strongly dependent on the calculation method and the quality of data points. On the other hand, a measure based on stoning simulation has not been extensively studied yet due to the insufficient information from stoning simulation. Regardless of the lack of a reliable measure, stoning simulation has been widely accepted in the field owing to its robustness to noise, and easiness of use and understanding. In this paper, we propose a new robust prediction method that uses stoning simulation and curvature analysis sequentially. The method combines the merits of the two methods in an integrated approach. First, for detection and finding the approximate shape of surface deflection, stoning simulation was utilized. Next, for the more accurate quantification of surface deflection, curvature analysis was applied. We used an adaptive span method to calculate the curvature stably and accurately regardless of the noise. As a verification example, a shallow rectangular drawing with inner rectangular embossing was considered. Experimental and simulation results were compared, and they demonstrated that the proposed approach can be utilized for the reliable detection of surface deflection and the accurate quantification of surface deflection.
Correcting for non‐ignorable missingness in smoking trends
Authors: Kopra Juho , Härkänen Tommi , Tolonen Hanna , Karvanen Juha
Published: January 2015

Data missing not at random (MNAR) are a major challenge in survey sampling. We propose an approach based on registry data to deal with non‐ignorable missingness in health examination surveys. The approach relies on follow‐up data available from administrative registers several years after the survey. For illustration, we use data on smoking prevalence in Finnish National FINRISK study conducted in 1972–97. The data consist of measured survey information including missingness indicators, register‐based background information and register‐based time‐to‐disease survival data. The parameters of missingness mechanism are estimable with these data although the original survey data are MNAR. The underlying data generation process is modelled by a Bayesian model. The results indicate that the estimated smoking prevalence rates in Finland may be significantly affected by missing data. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mastication or masceration: Does the preparation of sample affect the predictive in vitro glycemic response of pasta?
Authors: Foschia Martina , Peressini Donatella , Sensidoni Alessandro , Brennan Margaret Anne , Brennan Charles Stephen
Published: January 2015

A series of experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of different sample preparation steps, prior to the in vitro starch digestion process, on the predictive in vitro glycemic response of durum wheat pasta (control), and pasta made with durum wheat semolina and pea flour combinations. The physico‐chemical, textural, and cooking quality of the pastas were also assessed. The evaluation of the different preparations processes illustrated that the maceration of the samples prior to starch digestion significantly increased the extent of starch degradation and hence the area under the curve (AUC) of reducing sugar released during the digestion process. Mastication of the samples prior to in vitro assessment increased the initial reducing sugar content of samples but yielded the lowest recorded AUC for all samples. The replacement of durum wheat semolina with pea flour significantly reduced the samples AUC compared to the control samples when prepared by mastication. This difference was not apparent for the samples prepared by maceration. The results indicate that the choice of the preparation step used prior to in vitro starch digestion procedures can significantly affect the predictive glycemic response – AUC values of samples, and hence manipulate differences attributed to product composition or structure. This may have an impact in terms of choosing the most appropriate method of glycemic analysis for the food industry.
Starch‐based fixative with proper substitution degree for controlling dissolved and colloidal substances in a bleached chemithermomechanical pulp
Authors: Wang Lijun , Di Tongzhou , Zhang Yiqian , Luo Lingzhi , Zhao Huifang
Published: January 2015

Starch‐based fixatives (SBF), specifically low molecular weight, highly‐cationic starches (LHCS), have been reported to efficiently control dissolved and colloidal substances (DCS) in pulp suspensions, and to enhance paper strengths. However, as their degree of substitution (DS) was as high as 0.65, their preparation cost was very high. In this study, two products with lower DSs of just 0.08 (LHCS 0.08) and 0.22 (LHCS 0.22) were prepared and compared to a traditional polyamine (PA) fixative. It was found that the novel LHCSs interacted more readily with the anionic pulp fibers while the PA interacted more readily with the anionic DCS. Consequently, both LHCS 0.08 and LHCS 0.22 increased the paper strength more than the PA. Moreover, it was found that the LHCS 0.22 was most efficient in fixing the colloidal substances onto fibers, while the PA was most efficient in neutralizing the dissolved substances. We conclude that LHCS with DS as low as 0.22 can be used as a good fixative, however, starch with DS of only 0.08 is not efficient enough.
Hydrodynamics and mass transfer coefficients of airlift reactors with net draft tubes of different sizes: Production of cyclodextrin glucanotransferase using Bacillus sp. DSM 2523
Authors: Sanjari Samaneh , Vahabzadeh Farzaneh , Naderifar Abbas , Pesaran Mahdi
Published: January 2015

The hydrodynamics of airlift reactors with net draft tubes (ALR–NDTs) constructed with certain geometric specifications were characterized according to dependencies of the overall gas holdup, mixing time, liquid velocity, and volumetric gas–liquid mass transfer coefficient on the air flow rate (Qg). The mesh size and height‐to‐diameter ratio (H/D) of the net draft tube, and the downcomer‐to‐riser cross‐sectional area ratio (Ad/Ar) were among the geometric characteristics used to compare the performances of bubble column and airlift reactors with the ALR–NDTs. Several empirical correlations were developed to describe the relationship between the hydrodynamic characteristics and the geometric details under certain values of Qg. The specific cell growth rate (µ) was improved considerably in ALR–NDT‐12 (H/D = 10.7, Ad/Ar = 1.3, and Qg = 1 vvm) compared to free cells suspended in a flask experiment (0.070 vs. 0.465 h−1). The cells were performed efficiently and the time to reach the maximum production of the enzyme was notably decreased over that of the free cells in the flask studies (44 vs. 34 h for ALR–NDT‐12).
A new sight of water‐soluble polyacrylamide modified by β‐cyclodextrin as corrosion inhibitor for X70 steel
Authors: Yan Xueling , Zou Changjun , Qin Yibie
Published: January 2015

The application of water‐soluble polyacrylamide modified by β‐cyclodextrin (ACDPAM) as a corrosion inhibitor on X70 steel in 0.5 M H2SO4 solution has been evaluated using electrochemical measurements, weight loss, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The polarization curves results reveal that the copolymer acts as a mixed‐type inhibitor. The inhibition efficiency is found to increase by the increase in copolymer concentration and decreases by the rise in temperature, and it also exhibits effective inhibition even at a higher temperature. The adsorption of ACDPAM on X70 steel surface obeys the Langmuir adsorption isotherm and is governed by chemisorption. The SEM results demonstrate that X70 surface is protected by ACDPAM.
Starchy substrates for production and characterization of Bacillus subtilis amylase and its efficacy in detergent and breadmaking formulations
Authors: Pavithra Sundaresan , Ramesh Rajendran , Aarthy Mayilvahanan , Ayyadurai Niraikulam , Gowthaman Marichetti Kuppuswami , Kamini Numbi Ramudu
Published: January 2015

Utilization of starchy substrates for amylase production from Bacillus subtilis MTCC 6537 was carried out under solid state fermentation. Supplementation of beef extract and K2HPO4 to the fermentation medium increased the amylase activity to 1.6‐fold. Batch scale production of amylase was also studied at 100 g and 3 kg (3 × 1 kg) tray‐level batch fermentation. Extraction of fermented substrate with various salts and solvents did not show any considerable difference in amylase activity. MW of the partially purified enzyme was found to be 52 kDa by SDS–PAGE and the enzyme exhibited an optimum activity at pH 7.0 and 70°C and was stable within the pH range of 4.0–9.0 and temperatures up to 80°C. The enzyme showed maximum substrate specificity towards soluble starch. The activity was enhanced by K+ and Na+ ions, while Cu2+, Zn2+, Ni2+, and EDTA strongly inhibited the enzyme activity. The enzyme showed excellent compatibility and stability with various commercial detergents and oxidizing agents. The effect of amylase was also evaluated by the addition of some breadmaking ingredients and metabolites. The results revealed that the amylase from B. subtilis MTCC 6537 could be used as a potential candidate in detergent and breadmaking industries.
Effect of enriching potato and corn starch with iron ions on selected functional properties
Authors: Rożnowski Jacek , Fortuna Teresa , Przetaczek‐Rożnowska Izabela , Łabanowska Maria , Bączkowicz Małgorzata , Kurdziel Magdalena , Nowak Katarzyna
Published: January 2015

This study was aimed at establishing the effect of saturating starches from different botanical origins with iron ions on selected physicochemical properties of the resulting modified starch. Native and modified starches were determined for amylose, protein, fat, and phosphorus content as well as water binding capacity and solubility in water. In addition, the number of iron ions was assayed by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). The thermal properties of samples were also examined using a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). Flow curves were plotted and described using the Ostwald de Waele model, and the degree of paste structure recovery was determined. Samples enriched with iron ions were treated thermally and radical generation in the starch structure was assayed by means of electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR). AAS analysis proved the presence of iron ions in the investigated modified starch preparations. The results achieved established that enriching starch with iron ions affected the rheological and thermal properties of starch preparations. However, the extent and nature of these changes depended on the botanical origin of the starch. This was also a factor in the thermal generation of radicals, a process, which appeared to be more effective in potato starch preparations.
Impact of acid and heat–moisture treatment combination on physicochemical characteristics and resistant starch contents of sweet potato and yam starches
Authors: Hung Pham Van , My Nguyen Thi Huyen , Phi Nguyen Thi Lan
Published: January 2015

The objective of this study is to investigate formation of slowly digestible starch (SDS) and resistant starch (RS) and change in physicochemical properties of sweet potato and yam starches under a combination of acid and heat–moisture treatments using three mild organic acids including acetic acid, lactic acid and citric acid and heating temperature at 110°C for 8 h. The results show that the SDS and RS in sweet potato starch significantly increased from 6.6 and 14.7% in native starch to 8.7–13.2% and 37.5–42.1% in acid and heat–moisture treated starches, respectively. Likewise, the SDS and RS in yam starch increased from 4.7 and 21.6% in native starch to 10.0–11.3% and 39.0–46.4% in the treated starches, respectively. The RS content in the acid and heat–moisture treated starches was also significantly higher than that of the heat–moisture treated starches without acid hydrolysis. Yam starch produced higher amount of RS under acid and heat–moisture treatment as compared to sweet potato starch at the same condition. Swelling power and viscosity of starches significantly decreased, whereas the solubility significantly increased after treatments. The citric acid had the most impact on RS formation and starch properties, followed by lactic acid and acetic acid. As a result, the combination of acid and heat–moisture treatment is a useful method to produce higher amount of resistant starch, which can be applied for functional foods.
Coordinate Expansion of Murine Hematopoietic and Mesenchymal Stem Cell Compartments by SHIPi
Authors: Brooks R. , Iyer S. , Akada H. , Neelam S. , Russo C. M. , Chisholm J. D. , Kerr W. G.
Published: January 2015

Promoting the expansion of adult stem cell populations offers the potential to ameliorate radiation or chemotherapy-induced bone marrow failure and allows for expedited recovery for patients undergoing these therapies. Previous genetic studies suggested a pivotal role for SH2 domain-containing inositol-5-phosphatase 1 (SHIP1) in limiting the size of the hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) compartment. The aim of this study was to determine whether our recent development of small molecule SHIP1 inhibitors offers the potential for pharmacological expansion of the HSC compartment in vivo. We show here that treatment of mice with aminosteroid inhibitors of SHIP1 (SHIPi) more than doubles the size of the adult mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) compartment while simultaneously expanding the HSC pool sixfold. Consistent with its ability to target SHIP1 function in vivo, SHIPi also significantly increases plasma granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) levels, a growth factor that supports proliferation of HSC. Here, we show that SHIPi-induced G-CSF production mediates HSC and MSC expansion, as in vivo neutralization of G-CSF abrogates the SHIPi-induced expansion of both the HSC and MSC compartments. Due to its expansionary effect on adult stem cell compartments, SHIPi represents a potential novel strategy to improve declining stem cell function in both therapy induced and genetically derived bone marrow failure syndromes. Stem Cells  2015;33:848–858
Re: Fetal cardiac parameters for prediction of twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome. C. Zanardini, F. Prefumo, A. Fichera, E. Botteri and T. Frusca. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2014; 44: 434–440
Authors: Lewi L.
Published: January 2015

Linked Comment: Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2014; 44: 434–440
Multi‐priority queuing for electric vehicles charging at public supply stations with price variation
Authors: Said Dhaou , Cherkaoui Soumaya , Khoukhi Lyes
Published: January 2015

As electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular, public charging stations for such vehicles will become common. Because the load introduced by such stations on the grid is high, the smart grid will need to balance the load among charging stations in an area while minimizing the charging waiting time. To achieve this goal, we propose two models where vehicles communicate beforehand with the grid to convey information about their charging need and location. In the first model, we develop a mathematical formalism for handling requests for charging vehicles at public charging station based on queuing theory. The second model extends the first one by considering priority queues with two EV classes, high and low, and a cut‐off service discipline. Both models are evaluated while considering mobility of vehicles in an urban scenario and time‐of‐use pricing. Finally, we propose two algorithms for directing vehicles to charging stations in a way to minimize either their waiting time to plug‐in or their waiting time to charge completion. Simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed approaches when considering both real EV and charging station characteristics and constraints. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quality of service analysis and improvement with cross layer power allocation in multirelay networks
Authors: Efazati Sara , Azmi Paeiz
Published: January 2015

Quality of service (QoS) guarantee is the main performance metric for designing future wireless networks. For real time applications over wireless links, statistical delay QoS guarantee is the most important QoS metrics. The main goal of this paper is studying the effects of multi‐decode‐and‐forward‐relaying transmission on delay QoS guarantee and user satisfaction. For this end, we first propose an approach to simplify the analysis of statistical delay QoS guarantee by the use of a curve named QoS analysis curve. The QoS analysis curve of any system is based on its effective capacity (EC) function. So, we derive a closed‐form expression for the EC function of a multi‐decode‐and‐forward‐relay network to reduce the computational complexity of finding this quantity. After that, for improving the QoS guarantee performance of a multi‐decode‐and‐forward‐relaying system, the EC of the system is maximized by the use of power allocation (PA) technique. At first, an adaptive PA (APA) algorithm is proposed in which the source and relays PA policies are derived analytically. Although, the overhead of this algorithm is large, it significantly improves the statistical delay QoS guarantee performance. Then, for the systems that cannot tolerate the required large overhead of APA, a fixed PA scheme is presented, which is based on particle swarm optimization algorithm. There is a tradeoff between providing the delay QoS guarantee and the required overhead, in selecting APA or fixed PA schemes. The numerical results validate our analytical outcomes and evaluate our proposed algorithms.
Improving drug biological effects by encapsulation into polymeric nanocapsules
Authors: Frank Luiza A. , Contri Renata V. , Beck Ruy C. R. , Pohlmann Adriana R. , Guterres Silvia S.
Published: January 2015

This review is based on selected reports from 2004 to 2014 and provides a comprehensive and updated overview of the state of the art related to the drug delivery advantages of polymeric nanocapsules, which are a specific type of polymeric nanoparticles used for improvement of biological effects. Special attention is given to the application of nanocapsules to increase the chemical and photostability of drugs, to modulate the interaction with cells and tissues, to reduce adverse effects of drugs, and to increase the drug efficiency and/or bioavailability. Moreover, this review covers in vitro and in vivo studies, highlighting interesting examples of drugs from several therapeutic classes for which efficacy is improved by encapsulation in different types of nanocapsules, especially in lipid‐core nanocapsules. We also briefly present the first results obtained so far attesting to the safety of using polymeric nanocapsules for drug delivery. WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol 2015, 7:623–639. doi: 10.1002/wnan.1334

This article is categorized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease

Toxicology and Regulatory Issues in Nanomedicine > Toxicology of Nanomaterials
Heterotetranuclear Complexes of Reduced and Non‐reduced Bridging 1,2,4,5‐Tetrazine Ligands with 1,1′‐Bis(diphenylphosphanyl)‐ferrocene‐copper(I)
Authors: Bach Monika , Roy Sayak , Sarkar Biprajit , Bubrin Martina , Niemeyer Mark , Fiedler Jan , Duboc Carole , Kaim Wolfgang
Published: January 2015

The complexes {(μ‐bptz)[Cu(dppf)]2}(BF4)2 [(1)(BF4)2] [bptz = 3,6‐bis(2‐pyridyl)‐1,2,4,5‐tetrazine, dppf = 1,1′‐bis(diphenylphosphanyl)ferrocene] and {(μ‐bpztz)[Cu(dppf)]2}(PF6)2 [(2)(PF6)2] [bpztz = 3,6‐bis(2‐pyrazinyl)‐1,2,4,5‐tetrazine] contain two redox‐active heterodinuclear FeIICuI moieties, bridged by a redox‐active ligand. A crystal structure determination of (1)(BF4)2·2CH2Cl2 confirms the non‐reduced aromatic nature of the bridge, in contrast to previous results on dicopper(I) complexes of bptz. Facile one‐electron reduction produces the radical complexes {(μ‐bptz)[Cu(dppf)]2}+ (1+) and {(μ‐bpztz)[Cu(dppf)]2}+ (2+), which could be isolated [as (1)(BF4)] and studied by variable frequency EPR to provide hyperfine (9.5 GHz) and g anisotropy information (285 GHz). Cyclic voltammetry and UV/Vis/NIR spectroelectrochemistry indicate a reversible two‐electron oxidation of the well separated (ca. 13.4 Å) ferrocene termini.
Cardiac Risk Assessment: Decreasing Postoperative Complications
Authors: Thanavaro Joanne L.
Published: January 2015

Preoperative cardiac assessment helps identify patients undergoing noncardiac surgery who are at risk for significant postoperative cardiac complications and those who may benefit from additional preoperative evaluation and perioperative care. Advanced practice nurses can identify surgery‐ and patient‐related risks by conducting a thorough health history and physical examination. Multiple risk indices and evidence‐based guidelines are available to inform health care providers regarding patient evaluation and strategies to reduce postoperative cardiac risk. In general, preoperative tests are recommended only if the findings will influence medical therapy or perioperative monitoring or will require postponement of surgery until a cardiac condition can be corrected or stabilized. Medication management is a crucial component of the preoperative assessment; providers may need to initiate the use of beta‐blockers and make decisions regarding continuing or withholding antiplatelet and anticoagulant therapy. Preoperative cardiac risk stratification, medication reconciliation, and device management are essential for providing safe care for patients.
Decreasing Prosthetic Joint Surgical Site Infections: An Interdisciplinary Approach
Authors: Mejia Elisa , Williams Anne , Long Martha
Published: January 2015

As of October 2013, a hospital's base Medicare reimbursement will be penalized for patients readmitted within 30 days of undergoing elective total hip and knee arthroplasties. To respond to an increased incidence of prosthetic joint infections after these surgeries, members of an interdisciplinary project team at a 1,046‐bed multihospital health care organization in the southeastern United States sought to identify factors that place patients at high risk for infection. Data showed that addressing the sterile environment, personnel issues, patient readiness for surgery, and system issues resulted in decreased rates of infection among patients who underwent hip replacement surgery (χ21 = 3.057, P = .04). Additional outcomes included decreased reliance on immediate‐use steam sterilization and a standardized method to educate perioperative and radiology department personnel regarding prevention of prosthetic joint infections. The team concluded that an interdisciplinary approach to process improvement is effective and economical.
Dynamic subcellular localization of aquaporin‐7 in white adipocytes
Authors: Miyauchi Takayuki , Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Abe Yoichiro , Yoshida Go J. , Rojek Aleksandra , Sohara Eisei , Uchida Shinichi , Nielsen Søren , Yasui Masato
Published: January 2015

Aquaporin‐7 (AQP7) is expressed in adipose tissue, permeated by water and glycerol, and is involved in lipid metabolism. AQP7‐null mice develop obesity, insulin resistance, and adipocyte hypertrophy. Here, we show that AQP7 is expressed in adipocyte plasma membranes, and is re‐localized to intracellular membranes in response to catecholamine in mouse white adipose tissue. We found that internalization of AQP7 was induced by PKA activation and comparative gene identification 58 (CGI‐58). This relocation was confirmed by functional studies in 3T3‐L1 adipocytes. Collectively, these results suggest that AQP7 makes several contributions to adipocyte metabolism, in both cortical and intracellular membranes.
Prevalence and associated factors of early repolarization pattern in healthy young northeastern Thai men: A correlation study with Brugada electrocardiography
Authors: Makarawate Pattarapong , Chaosuwannakit Narumol , Ruamcharoen Yossavadee , Panthongviriyakul Aunejit , Pongchaiyakul Choowong , Tharaksa Prapapan , Sripo Temsiri , Sawanyawisuth Kittisak
Published: January 2015

Background

Early repolarization pattern (ERP) is characterized by J‐point elevation with QRS notching or slurring in the terminal portion of the QRS complex. It may be associated with sudden death. Brugada syndrome (BS) is a genetic and fatal disease commonly found in northeastern Thai men. Data on the rate and predictors of ERP in Asian populations are limited. In addition, the correlation between ERP and BS has never been studied in an endemic area of BS. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of ERP and its associated factors in young, healthy male Asian subjects.

Methods

Between June 2011 and May 2012, 282 young, healthy men aged 20–45 years were enrolled at check‐up clinics in Khon Kaen, Thailand. Subjects were divided into the ERP and non‐ERP groups.

Results

There were 29 subjects with ERP (10.3%). The Sokolow–Lyon index was an independent factor for ERP with an adjusted odds ratio of 1.090 (95% CI: 1.027, 1.159). The Brugada ECG pattern was found in 11 (37.9%) subjects in the ERP group. The Brugada ECG pattern (non‐type 1) was commonly found in lateral ERP patients. After the placement of high intercostal leads, the Brugada ECG pattern was dramatically increased compared with results obtained during standard ECG lead placement.

Conclusions

The ERP rate in young, healthy men from northeastern Thailand was 10.3%. A higher Sokolow–Lyon index was the only independent factor associated with ERP. Subjects with ERP should be examined with high intercostal leads to uncover Brugada ECG.
Crosstalk between cancer cells and blood endothelial and lymphatic endothelial cells in tumour and organ microenvironment
Authors: Lee Esak , Pandey Niranjan B. , Popel Aleksander S.
Published: January 2015

Tumour and organ microenvironments are crucial for cancer progression and metastasis. Crosstalk between multiple non-malignant cell types in the microenvironments and cancer cells promotes tumour growth and metastasis. Blood and lymphatic endothelial cells (BEC and LEC) are two of the components in the microenvironments. Tumour blood vessels (BV), comprising BEC, serve as conduits for blood supply into the tumour, and are important for tumour growth as well as haematogenous tumour dissemination. Lymphatic vessels (LV), comprising LEC, which are relatively leaky compared with BV, are essential for lymphogenous tumour dissemination. In addition to describing the conventional roles of the BV and LV, we also discuss newly emerging roles of these endothelial cells: their crosstalk with cancer cells via molecules secreted by the BEC and LEC (also called angiocrine and lymphangiocrine factors). This review suggests that BEC and LEC in various microenvironments can be orchestrators of tumour progression and proposes new mechanism-based strategies to discover new therapies to supplement conventional anti-angiogenic and anti-lymphangiogenic therapies.