bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determining the Potential of Colorimetry in Wood Identification
Authors: ABASOLO WILLIE P. , GIBE MONICA
Published: July 2015

Proper wood identification is the first step in allocating the appropriate utility of the wood species. This is a difficult task for it requires skills gained from a number of years of experience. To come up of with a simple, easy but reliable wood identification technique for unknown wood samples, the study was conducted to determine the feasibility of using colorimetry in identifying different wood species. Solvents used to obtain the wood dye extracts were hot water and ethanol. Light absorbance of the solution was measured using a colorimeter with three (3) light wavelengths particularly 468nm, 520nm and 650nm. Maximum light absorbance of the wood extracts varied significantly among wood samples. This showed that colorimeter readings were able to differentiate one wood sample from the other. Among the three wavelengths, 468 nm was the most successful in segregating the wood samples regardless of the solvent used. Although alcohol gave higher absorbance values, using water as a solvent provided a much clear separation between absorbance values. Hence, hot water should be used instead of alcohol. Besides being readily available, it is safer to handle and much cheaper than alcohol. Keywords - Wood Science, colorimetry in wood identification, wood dye extracts, Philippines
Endophytic Bacteria Isolated from Nipa Palm (Nypa fruticans) in Bulacan, Philippines
Authors: CRUZ JAYVEE A. , CADIENTE MEA KATREENA M. , HOAI XUAN TRUONG , RASCO JR EUFEMIO T.
Published: July 2015

The nipa (Nypa fruticans) environment has limited nutrients along with soil salinity, but sustainably high productivity is observed for this palm. Its productivity is supported by indefinite mechanisms for its fertility maintenance, in which symbiotic microbes are involved. In this study, screening of endophytic bacteria examined their multiple plant growth-promoting traits. These include the production of indole acetic acid (IAA), phosphate solubilization, nitrogen fixation, and starch hydrolysis as potential microbial inoculants to upland rice. Twelve endophytic bacterial strains were isolated from nipa palm in Bulacan, Philippines. All bacterial isolates produced IAA in culture. Ten of the 12 isolates dissolved precipitated tricalcium phosphate as shown by clearing zones around isolates grown in Pikovskaya’s medium. Five isolates were nitrogen-fixing bacteria while four hydrolyzed starch. Promising bacteria will be selected from the 12 isolates for further study. Other researchers have proven the ability of Burkholderia, bacteria isolated from nipa palm to endophytically colonize rice, promoting both plant growth and rice grain yield. Hence, it is possible that the isolated endophytic bacteria from nipa palm may also act as plant growth enhancers to other crops including rice. Keywords - Microbiology, endophytic bacteria, growth-promoting activities, nipa palm, Bulacan, Philippines
Science Literacy, Awareness, and Attitude Enhancement through Integration of Sustainable Development Education in General Ecology
Authors: GUEVARA CHRISTIA ALMARIO
Published: July 2015

Science literacy, awareness and attitude enhancement as outcomes of integrating sustainable development concepts and principles in coursework of general ecology was investigated. This study further explored on causal relationships of demographic and other factors to learning and relate them to the students’ capacity for conceptual integration and sustainable practices as a way of life. The utilization of formal science courses as venue for knowledge building and sharing, awareness and understanding of relevant societal issues, and the promotion of sustainable development were accomplished in this study. A module on Ecology integrated with sustainability was developed. Test of Science Literacy (TSL) and Sustainability Awareness and Attitude Inventory (SSAI) were developed to evaluate learning, awareness and attitude. Results were reported as means, standard deviations, and frequencies. Test scores were analyzed by paired samples t - test. Qualitative data were organized into themes and were used as supporting evidences of statistical results. Findings of this study indicated that there was a statistically significant improvement in the students’ science literacy upon completion of the course. Awareness and attitudes toward sustainable living were likewise developed. This study showed that academic programs can be utilized as an effective path for advocacy toward sustainable living. Keywords - General Ecology, sustainable development, science literacy sustainability awareness and attitude, descriptive design, Philippine education, Philippines
Clark as an Alternative Destination for Warehouse Storage in Manila, Philippines
Authors: JAFY LOK TAK MING
Published: July 2015

This paper is to apply the concept of the destination image to a decision on warehouse storage location. With a proper transportation network, people in Manila could reach Clark in one to one and a half hours.  However, currently, the customers in Manila are reluctant to use the warehouse services in Clark.  One of the main concerns is on the unexpected travelling time. The objective of this paper is to explore whether people will consider Clark as an alternative destination for warehouse storage in Manila if there is a proper transportation network. The results of the three case studies confirm the model of the formation of the destination image being the information sources, experience, psychologically nature and socio-demographic characteristics. The results also confirm the influence of the linked transportation network to Clark as a destination image. It is concluded that propositions are supported, and literal replication is expected. With a properly linked transportation network, consumers are willing to consider Clark as a warehouse storage location. With a similar argument, Clark could be considered for other business and other economic activities if there is properly linked transportation network between Clark and Manila. Keywords- Destination image, linked transportation network, case study, Manila, Clark
Heavy Metals in Processed Fish Commercially Available in the Philippines: An Environmental Toxicology Study
Authors: SOLIDUM JUDILYNN N.
Published: July 2015

Fish is the staple viand for Filipinos. Unsurprisingly, fish processing becomes a livelihood in the Philippines. Lead, cadmium and chromium contamination in fish may result to adverse health effects. This study aimed to determine such heavy metals in processed fish (dried and smoked) in both head and meat sold in the markets of Metro Manila, Philippines. The levels were compared with each other. The levels of heavy metals obtained were also compared with standard limits set by the Food and Agriculture Organization, World Health Organization, and the US Environmental Protection Agency. The samples were analyzed using Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry. All processed fish smoked and dried fish samples contained lead, cadmium and chromium. Smoked Bisugo (Nemipterus japonicus) head had lead that went beyond the allowed limit. All dried fish samples contained cadmium beyond the acceptable limit. Smoked Galunggong (Decapterus macrosoma) meat went beyond the acceptable cadmium limit. Chromium in all samples went beyond the acceptable limit. Using Student’s t-test, the levels of lead and cadmium (head, meat) in processed fish showed statistically insignificant difference similar to chromium in smoked but not for dried fish. Hence, all processed fish samples contain lead, cadmium and chromium. The species and body parts with heavy metals beyond the acceptable limits vary. Keywords - Environmental toxicology, acid digestion, fl ame atomic absorption spectroscopy, lead, cadmium, chromium, experimental design, Philippines
Threatened Plant Species of Mindoro, Philippines
Authors: VILLANUEVA ELAINE LOREEN C. , BUOT, JR. INOCENCIO E.
Published: July 2015

There have been some studies on the plant species found in Mindoro, Philippines, but there remains little information in their status particularly at the local level. This paper presents a list of threatened plant species of Mindoro. A list of indicators of the conservation status was formulated for this particular study and was used for categorizing the threatened plant species at the local level. The list recorded 173 threatened plant species from 70 plant families, which are composed of 25 Critically Endangered (CR), 46 Endangered (EN) and 102 Vulnerable (VU) plant species. The species were found to be threatened because of their endemicity, as well as some anthropogenic activities that could lead to the destruction of their habitats and ultimately, their extinction. There are still existing gaps in the knowledge of the flora of Mindoro, and when these gaps are addressed, it is possible that more rare and threatened plants will be added to the list. It is also recommended to utilize the data in the enactment of the laws to address the threats to plant biodiversity loss. Keywords - Botany, threatened plant species, Mindoro, conservation status, International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Mindoro, Philippines
Thermal dependency of shell growth, microstructure, and stable isotopes in laboratory‐reared Scapharca broughtonii (Mollusca: Bivalvia)
Authors: Nishida Kozue , Suzuki Atsushi , Isono Ryosuke , Hayashi Masahiro , Watanabe Yusuke , Yamamoto Yuzo , Irie Takahiro , Nojiri Yukihiro , Mori Chiharu , Sato Mizuho , Sato Kei , Sasaki Takenori
Published: July 2015

We experimentally examined the growth, microstructure, and chemistry of shells of the bloody clam, Scapharca broughtonii (Mollusca: Bivalvia), reared at five temperatures (13, 17, 21, 25, and 29°C) with a constant pCO2 condition (∼450 μatm). In this species, the exterior side of the shell is characterized by a composite prismatic structure; on the interior side, it has a crossed lamellar structure on the interior surface. We previously found a negative correlation between temperature and the relative thickness of the composite prismatic structure in field‐collected specimens. In the reared specimens, the relationship curve between temperature and the growth increment of the composite prismatic structure was humped shaped, with a maximum at 17°C, which was compatible with the results obtained in the field‐collected specimens. In contrast, the thickness of the crossed lamellar structure was constant over the temperature range tested. These results suggest that the composite prismatic structure principally accounts for the thermal dependency of shell growth, and this inference was supported by the finding that shell growth rates were significantly correlated with the thickness of the composite prismatic structure. We also found a negative relationship between the rearing temperature and δ18O of the shell margin, in close quantitative agreement with previous reports. The findings presented here will contribute to the improved age determination of fossil and recent clams based on seasonal microstructural records.
Evaluation of simple to complex parameterizations of bare ground evaporation
Authors: Jefferson Jennifer L. , Maxwell Reed M.
Published: July 2015

Integrated hydrologic models coupled to land surface models link water and energy movement among the subsurface, land surface, and atmosphere. These connections are especially important when estimating a complex, nonlinear process like evaporation. A comprehensive sensitivity study of an evaporation parameterization was conducted using the integrated ParFlow‐Common Land Model (PF‐CLM). Estimates of ground evaporation using three forms of the same equation, two simplified closed‐form solutions and one fully‐coupled PF‐CLM equation, are systematically compared. The parameterizations vary in complexity, coupling strength, and nonlinearity. Forcing data from three climate regions (alpine, plains, and tropical) are used to compare estimates of bare ground evaporation across all three formulations, thus exploring the process and coupling sensitivity in a novel way. The overall behavior of ground evaporation is consistent throughout the year for all parameterizations, but magnitudes vary with respect to parameterization complexity during energy‐limited and water‐limited times of the year. A relationship between ground evaporation and ground temperature is shown to exist across all climates and aggregate by pressure, wind speed, and air temperature in the plains climate. Furthermore, results show how increasing complexity through the addition of land surface conditions, atmospheric conditions, and atmospheric stability uniquely compound to influence the relationship between bare ground evaporation and subsurface pressure. Identification of sensitive interactions and unique relationships is necessary to further understand and predict hydrologic processes like evaporation.
Detailed rupture imaging of the 25 April 2015 Nepal earthquake using teleseismic P waves
Authors: Fan Wenyuan , Shearer Peter M.
Published: July 2015

We analyze the rupture process of the 25 April 2015 Nepal earthquake with globally recorded teleseismic P waves. The rupture propagated east‐southeast from the hypocenter for about 160 km with a duration of ∼55 s. Backprojection of both high‐frequency (HF, 0.2 to 3 Hz) and low‐frequency (LF, 0.05 to 0.2 Hz) P waves suggest a multistage rupture process. From the low‐frequency images, we resolve an initial slow downdip (northward) rupture near the nucleation area for the first 20 s (Stage 1), followed by two faster updip ruptures (20 to 40 s for Stage 2 and 40 to 55 s for Stage 3), which released most of the radiated energy northeast of Kathmandu. The centroid rupture power from LF backprojection agrees well with the Global Centroid Moment Tensor solution. The spatial resolution of the backprojection images is validated by applying similar analysis to nearby aftershocks. The overall rupture pattern agrees well with the aftershock distribution. A multiple‐asperity model could explain the observed multistage rupture and aftershock distribution.
Cooperation among tectonic and surface processes in the St. Elias Range, Earth's highest coastal mountains
Authors: Enkelmann Eva , Koons Peter O. , Pavlis Terry L. , Hallet Bernard , Barker Adam , Elliott Julie , Garver John I. , Gulick Sean P. S. , Headley Rachel M. , Pavlis Gary L. , Ridgway Kenneth D. , Ruppert Natalia , Van Avendonk Harm J. A.
Published: July 2015

Investigations of tectonic and surface processes have shown a clear relationship between climate‐influenced erosion and long‐term exhumation of rocks. Numerical models suggest that most orogens are in a transient state, but observational evidence of a spatial shift in mountain building processes due to tectonic‐climate interaction is missing. New thermochronology data synthesized with geophysical and surface process data elucidate the evolving interplay of erosion and tectonics of the colliding Yakutat microplate with North America. Focused deformation and rock exhumation occurred in the apex of the colliding plate corner from > 4 to 2 Ma and shifted southward after the 2.6 Ma climate change. The present exhumation maximum coincides with the largest modern shortening rates, highest concentration of seismicity, and the greatest erosive potential. We infer that the high sedimentation caused rheological modification and the emergence of the southern St. Elias, intercepting orographic precipitation and shifting focused erosion and exhumation to the south.
A modeling study of the impact of major storms on waves, surface and near‐bed currents on the Grand Banks of Newfoundland
Authors: Li Michael Z. , Wu Yongsheng , Prescott Robert H. , Tang Charles C. L. , Han Guoqi
Published: July 2015

Waves and current processes, both surface and near‐bed were simulated for major storms on the Grand Banks of Newfoundland using integrated wave, 3‐D tidal and ocean current models. Most storms track southwest to northeast and pass to the north or northwest of the Grand Banks. Significant wave heights can reach up to ∼14 m and are predominantly to the northeast at the peak of storms. Extreme surface currents reach approximately 1 m s−1 and are largely to the southeast. The strongest bottom currents, up to 0.8 m s−1, occur on St. Pierre Bank and are dominantly to the south and southeast. While wave height and wind‐driven current generally increase with wind speed, factors such as storm paths, the relative location of the storm center at the storm peak, and storm translation speed also affect waves and currents. Surface and near‐bed wind‐driven currents both rotate clockwise and decrease in strength as the storm traverses the Grand Banks. While the spatial variability of the storm impact on surface currents is relatively small, bottom currents show significant spatial variation of magnitude and direction as well as timing of peak current conditions. These spatial variations are controlled by the changes of bathymetry and mixed layer depth over the model domain. The storm‐generated currents can be 7 to 10 times stronger than the background mean currents. These strong currents interact with wave oscillatory flows to produce shear velocities up to 15 cm s−1 and cause wide occurrences of strong sediment transport over nearly the entire Grand Banks.
Evidence for changes in subsurface circulation in the late Eocene equatorial Pacific from radiolarian‐bound nitrogen isotope values
Authors: Robinson Rebecca S. , Moore Theodore C. , Erhardt Andrea M. , Scher Howie D.
Published: July 2015

Microfossil‐bound organic matter represents an important archive of surface ocean environmental information. Sedimentary nitrogen (N) isotope reconstructions of surface nitrate consumption and nitrogen source changes are made using fossil diatom (autotrophs) and planktic foraminiferal (heterotrophs)‐bound organic matter with success. However, because diatoms and planktic foraminifera are poorly preserved and sedimentary organic matter content is near zero during the late Eocene, our ability to examine nutrient dynamics across this important climate transition is limited. Here we present new data exploring the use of N isotope records from radiolarian tests. A comparison of surface ocean nitrate and core top bulk and radiolarian N isotope values (as δ15N) from the equatorial Pacific indicates that radiolarian‐N records δ15N variability with fidelity but that a significant offset exists between bulk sedimentary and diatom δ15N values and those measured from radiolarians (~7.1 ± 1.1‰). A downcore profile of radiolarian δ15N values is compared to siliceous microfossil assemblage changes across the Eocene‐Oligocene boundary. Average of radiolarian‐bound δ15N values is 0.5 ± 2.0‰, which, when corrected using the offset derived from the modern surface samples, suggests that the mean nitrogen isotopic composition of the early Cenozoic eastern Pacific was not significantly different from today. The overall trend, of decreasing δ15N values with decreasing export productivity, is consistent with either a regional decline in pelagic denitrification or a large‐scale change in nutrient sources to the eastern equatorial Pacific (EEP), both linked to the cooling climate and changing intermediate water circulation. Decreasing/low δ15N values cooccur with high radiolarian species turnover at ~35.5 and 34 Ma, suggestive of a significant ecological change in the EEP, consistent with cooling and water mass distribution changes. The preliminary results suggest that radiolarian‐bound organic nitrogen represents another promising archive and underscores the fact that the different microfossil fractions must be separated to ensure robust results.
Effects of Mg17Sr2 Phase on the Bio‐Corrosion Behavior of Mg–Zr–Sr Alloys
Authors: Ding Yunfei , Li Yuncang , Wen Cuie
Published: July 2015

The effect of the second phase Mg17Sr2 on the biocorrosion behavior of Mg5ZrxSr (x = 0, 2, 5 wt%) alloys before and after solution treatment was investigated. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, cathodic polarization and hydrogen evolution were used to evaluate the biocorrosion of Mg5ZrxSr. We found that Mg17Sr2 precipitated on boundary zones and enhanced the galvanic effect, leading to a severer corrosion of the Mg matrix adjacent to Mg17Sr2. The corrosion subsequently spread gradually from the regions adjacent to the Mg17Sr2 to the central Mg matrix. However, a high volume fraction of Mg17Sr2 could also form a continuous network, isolate the Mg matrix and act as a barrier of corrosion.
High‐Performance Planar Solar Cells Based On CH3NH3PbI3‐xClx Perovskites with Determined Chlorine Mole Fraction
Authors: Li Yunlong , Sun Weihai , Yan Weibo , Ye Senyun , Peng Haitao , Liu Zhiwei , Bian Zuqiang , Huang Chunhui
Published: July 2015

Solution‐processable hybrid perovskite solar cells are a new member of next generation photovoltaics. In the present work, a low‐temperature two‐step dipping method is proposed for the fabrication of CH3NH3PbI3‐xClx perovskite films on the indium tin oxide glass/poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) substrate. The bandgaps of the CH3NH3PbI3‐xClx perovskite films are tuned in the range between 1.54 and 1.59 eV by adjusting the PbCl2 mole fraction (nCl/(nCl + nI)) in the initial mixed precursor solution from 0.10 to 0.40. The maximum chlorine mole fraction measured by a unique potentiometric titration method in the produced CH3NH3PbI3‐xClx films can be up to 0.220 ± 0.020 (x = 0.660 ± 0.060), which is much higher than that produced by a one‐step spin‐coating method (0.056 ± 0.015, x = 0.17 ± 0.04). The corresponding solar cell with the CH3NH3PbI2.34±0.06Cl0.66±0.06 perovskite film sandwiched between PEDOT:PSS and C60 layers exhibits a power conversion efficiency as high as 14.5%. Meanwhile, the open‐circuit potential (Voc) of the device reaches 1.11 V, which is the highest Voc reported in the perovskite solar cells fabricated on PEDOT:PSS so far.
Probabilistic slow feature analysis‐based representation learning from massive process data for soft sensor modeling
Authors: Shang Chao , Huang Biao , Yang Fan , Huang Dexian
Published: July 2015

Latent variable (LV) models provide explicit representations of underlying driving forces of process variations and retain the dominant information of process data. In this study, slow features (SFs) as temporally correlated LVs are derived using probabilistic SF analysis. SFs evolving in a state‐space form effectively represent nominal variations of processes, some of which are potentially correlated to quality variables and hence help improving the prediction performance of soft sensors. An efficient expectation maximum algorithm is proposed to estimate parameters of the probabilistic model, which turns out to be suitable for analyzing massive process data. Two criteria are also proposed to select quality‐relevant SFs. The validity and advantages of the proposed method are demonstrated via two case studies. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 61: 4126–4139, 2015
An effective rate approach to modeling single‐stage spray drying
Authors: George Oluwafemi Ayodele , Chen Xiao Dong , Xiao Jie , Woo Mengwai , Che Liming
Published: July 2015

An effective rate approach (ERA) is proposed to achieve a fast and reliable prediction of dryer outlet conditions for a given single‐stage spray drying system operated under a range of scenarios. This approach is improved from existing methods based on simple mass and energy balances due to the incorporation of a reliable drying rate model, which is the reaction engineering approach for the material of interest. It allows quick solution procedure without the need to solve the partial differential equations that govern the heat and mass transfer in the spray drying process. By following a generic procedure, this technique has been exercised on the experimental results from running a monodisperse droplet spray dryer, that is, a well‐established experimental platform for model validation. The proposed ERA has been shown to be rather promising. It could become a powerful approach for proactive control and optimization for existing spray drying facilities. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 61: 4140–4151, 2015
Heterogeneous Cu‐MnO Catalyzed Monoselective ortho‐Halogenation of Aromatic C−H Bonds under Visible Light
Authors: Pal Provas , Singh Harshvardhan , Panda Asit Baran , Ghosh Subhash Chandra
Published: July 2015

Heterogeneous Cu‐MnO‐catalyzed selective monohalogenation of aromatic compounds with cheap N‐halosuccinimide (NXS) as a halogenating agent in the presence of molecular oxygen as an oxidant, under irradiation with visible light is reported. Monochlorination, bromination, and iodinations were achieved in a highly selective fashion. Our developed heterogeneous Cu‐MnO catalyst without any additive and ligands works well for halogenation with electron‐rich substrates and also works selectively with electron poor substrates. Moreover, chlorination occurs efficiently with the more challenging substrates benzoic esters. The heterogeneous nature of the reaction was proven by hot filtration test.
Measurement of ciliary beat frequency using Doppler optical coherence tomography
Authors: Lemieux Bryan T. , Chen Jason J. , Jing Joseph , Chen Zhongping , Wong Brian J.F.
Published: July 2015

Background

Measuring ciliary beat frequency (CBF) is a technical challenge and difficult to perform in vivo. Doppler optical coherence tomography (D‐OCT) is a mesoscopic noncontact imaging modality that provides high‐resolution tomographic images and detects micromotion simultaneously in living tissues. In this work we used D‐OCT to measure CBF in ex vivo tissue as the first step toward translating this technology to clinical use.

Methods

Fresh ex vivo samples of rabbit tracheal mucosa were imaged using both D‐OCT and phase‐contrast microscopy (n = 5). The D‐OCT system was designed and built to specification in our lab (1310‐nm swept source vertical‐cavity surface‐emitting laser [VCSEL], 6‐μm axial resolution). The samples were placed in culture and incubated at 37°C. A fast Fourier transform was performed on the D‐OCT signal recorded on the surface of the samples to gauge CBF. High‐speed digital video of the epithelium recorded via phase‐contrast microscopy was analyzed to confirm the CBF measurements.

Results

The D‐OCT system detected Doppler signal at the epithelial layer of ex vivo rabbit tracheal samples suggestive of ciliary motion. CBF was measured at 9.36 ± 1.22 Hz using D‐OCT and 9.08 ± 0.48 Hz using phase‐contrast microscopy. No significant differences were found between the 2 methods (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

D‐OCT allows for the quantitative measurement of CBF without the need to resolve individual cilia. Furthermore, D‐OCT technology can be incorporated into endoscopic platforms that allow clinicians to readily measure CBF in the office and provide a direct measurement of mucosal health.
Blockade of Interferon‐γ Normalizes Interferon‐Regulated Gene Expression and Serum CXCL10 Levels in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Welcher Andrew A. , Boedigheimer Michael , Kivitz Alan J. , Amoura Zahir , Buyon Jill , Rudinskaya Alla , Latinis Kevin , Chiu Kit , Oliner Kelly S. , Damore Michael A. , Arnold Gregory E. , Sohn Winnie , Chirmule Narendra , Goyal Lovely , Banfield Christopher , Chung James B.
Published: July 2015

Objective

To assess the safety and immunologic impact of inhibiting interferon‐γ (IFNγ) with AMG 811, a human IgG1 monoclonal antibody against IFNγ, in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

Twenty‐six patients with mild‐to‐moderate, stable SLE were administered placebo or a single dose of AMG 811, ranging from 2 mg to 180 mg subcutaneously or 60 mg intravenously.

Results

Similar to results previously reported following inhibition of type I IFNs, treatment of SLE patients with AMG 811 led to a dose‐dependent modulation of the expression of genes associated with IFN signaling, as assessed by microarray analysis of the whole blood. The list of impacted genes overlapped with that identified by stimulating human whole blood with IFNγ and with those gene sets reported in the literature to be differentially expressed in SLE patients. Serum levels of IFNγ‐induced chemokines, including IFNγ‐inducible protein 10 (IP‐10), were found to be elevated at baseline in SLE patients as compared to healthy volunteers. In contrast to previously reported results from studies using type I IFN–blocking agents, treatment with AMG 811 led to dose‐related reductions in the serum levels of CXCL10 (IP‐10).

Conclusion

The scope and nature of the biomarkers impacted by AMG 811 support targeting of IFNγ as a therapeutic strategy for SLE.
Reduction in Disease Progression by Inhibition of Transforming Growth Factor α–CCL2 Signaling in Experimental Posttraumatic Osteoarthritis
Authors: Appleton C. Thomas G. , Usmani Shirine E. , Pest Michael A. , Pitelka Vasek , Mort John S. , Beier Frank
Published: July 2015

Objective

Transforming growth factor α (TGFα) is increased in osteoarthritic (OA) cartilage in rats and humans and modifies chondrocyte phenotype. CCL2 is increased in OA cartilage and stimulates proteoglycan loss. This study was undertaken to test whether TGFα and CCL2 cooperate to promote cartilage degradation and whether inhibiting either reduces disease progression in a rat model of posttraumatic OA.

Methods

Microarray analysis was used to profile expression of messenger RNA (mRNA) for Tgfa, Ccl2, and related genes in a rat model of posttraumatic OA. Rat primary chondrocytes and articular cartilage explants were treated with TGFα in the presence or absence of MEK‐1/2, p38, phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase, Rho‐associated protein kinase, or CCR2 inhibitors and immunostained for markers of cartilage degradation. The rat model was used to administer pharmacologic inhibitors of TGFα (AG1478) and CCL2 (RS504393) signaling for up to 10 weeks and assess histopathology and serum biomarkers of cartilage synthesis (C‐propeptide of type II collagen [CPII]) and breakdown (C2C).

Results

Tgfa and Ccl2 mRNA were simultaneously up‐regulated in articular cartilage in the rat model of posttraumatic OA. TGFα induced expression of CCL2, Mmp3, and Tnf in primary chondrocytes. Cleavage of type II collagen and aggrecan (by matrix metalloproteinases and ADAMTS‐4/5, respectively) induced by TGFα was blocked by pharmacologic inhibition of CCL2 in cartilage explants. In vivo pharmacologic inhibition of TGFα or CCL2 signaling reduced Osteoarthritis Research Society International cartilage histopathology scores and increased serum CPII levels, but only TGFα inhibition reduced C2C levels intreated versus untreated rat OA cartilage.

Conclusion

TGFα signaling stimulates cartilage degradation via a CCL2‐dependent mechanism, but pharmacologic inhibition of the TGFα–CCL2 axis reduces experimental posttraumatic OA progression in vivo.
A Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled, Sixteen‐Week Study of Subcutaneous Golimumab in Patients With Active Nonradiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis
Authors: Sieper J. , van der Heijde D. , Dougados M. , Maksymowych W. P. , Scott B. B. , Boice J. A. , Berd Y. , Bergman G. , Curtis S. , Tzontcheva A. , Huyck S. , Weng H. H.
Published: July 2015

Objective

Axial spondyloarthritis (SpA) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by back pain and stiffness. The objective of this study was to determine whether golimumab is superior to placebo in patients with nonradiographic axial SpA.

Methods

This phase III, double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial was performed to evaluate subcutaneous golimumab (50 mg) versus placebo in patients ages ≥18 years to ≤45 years who had active nonradiographic axial SpA according to the Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society (ASAS) criteria for ≤5 years since diagnosis, high disease activity, and an inadequate response to or intolerance of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs. Patients were randomized 1:1 to receive golimumab or placebo subcutaneously every 4 weeks. The primary end point was 20% improvement according to the ASAS criteria (ASAS20) at week 16. Key secondary end points were an ASAS40 response, ASAS partial remission, 50% improvement in the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI), and change in the Spondyloarthritis Research Consortium of Canada (SPARCC) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) index for sacroiliac (SI) joint inflammation (SPARCC score).

Results

Of the 198 patients randomized, 197 were treated (97 received golimumab, and 100 received placebo). The mean age of the patients was 31 years, and 57.1% were male. At baseline, the mean ± SD BASDAI was 6.5 ± 1.5, the mean ± SD ASDAS was 3.5 ± 0.9, and the mean ± SD SPARCC score was 11.3 ± 14.0. The primary end point, an ASAS20 response, was achieved by significantly more patients in the golimumab group compared with the placebo group (71.1% versus 40.0%; P < 0.0001). An ASAS40 response was also achieved by significantly more patients in the golimumab group compared with the placebo group (56.7% versus 23.0%; P < 0.0001). The incidence of adverse events did not differ meaningfully between groups.

Conclusion

Patients with active nonradiographic axial SpA treated with golimumab had significantly greater improvement in symptoms compared with patients treated with placebo. Golimumab was well tolerated and had a favorable risk/benefit profile.
AMP/GMP Analogs as Affinity ESIPT Probes for Highly Selective Sensing of Alkaline Phosphatase Activity in Living Systems
Authors: Jia Yan , Li Peng , Han Keli
Published: July 2015

Current probes for alkaline phosphatase (ALP) detection had been developed mainly by adding a phosphate group to a dye, which would lead to indistinct performance when implemented in a living system as several phosphatases exist together. In this study, the nucleotides adenosine monophosphate (AMP) and guanosine monophosphate (GMP) were introduced into 2′‐(2′‐hydroxyphenyl)‐benzothiazole‐based probes, and highly fluorescent turn‐on probes with good selectivity towards ALP over several phosphatases, as well as high affinity and low toxicity were obtained. In the presence of l‐phenylalanine, an ALP inhibitor, a strong decrease in fluorescence recovery was observed. These probes allowed for real‐time imaging of endogenous ALP activity in living cells as well as in a zebrafish model.
Non‐invasive imaging of cellulose microfibril orientation within plant cell walls by polarized Raman microspectroscopy
Authors: Sun Lan , Singh Seema , Joo Michael , Vega‐Sanchez Miguel , Ronald Pamela , Simmons Blake A. , Adams Paul , Auer Manfred
Published: July 2015

Cellulose microfibrils represent the major scaffold of plant cell walls. Different packing and orientation of the microfibrils at the microscopic scale determines the macroscopic properties of cell walls and thus affect their functions with a profound effect on plant survival. We developed a polarized Raman microspectroscopic method to determine cellulose microfibril orientation within rice plant cell walls. Employing an array of point measurements as well as area imaging and subsequent Matlab‐assisted data processing, we were able to characterize the distribution of cellulose microfibril orientation in terms of director angle and anisotropy magnitude. Using this approach we detected differences between wild type rice plants and the rice brittle culm mutant, which shows a more disordered cellulose microfibril arrangement, and differences between different tissues of a wild type rice plant. This novel non‐invasive Raman imaging approach allows for quantitative assessment of cellulose fiber orientation in cell walls of herbaceous plants, an important advancement in cell wall characterization. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2016;113: 82–90. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Development of a new platform for secretory production of recombinant proteins in Corynebacterium glutamicum
Authors: Yim Sung Sun , Choi Jae Woong , Lee Roo Jin , Lee Yong Jae , Lee Se Hwa , Kim So Young , Jeong Ki Jun
Published: July 2015

Corynebacterium glutamicum, which has been for long an industrial producer of various l‐amino acids, nucleic acids, and vitamins, is now also regarded as a potential host for the secretory production of recombinant proteins. To harness its potential as an industrial platform for recombinant protein production, the development of an efficient secretion system is necessary. Particularly, regarding protein production in large‐scale bioreactors, it would be appropriate to develop a secretory expression system that is specialized for high cell density cultivation conditions. Here we isolated a new signal peptide that mediates the efficient secretion of recombinant proteins under high cell density cultivation conditions. The secretome of C. glutamicum ATCC 13032 under high cell density cultivation conditions was initially investigated, and one major protein was identified as a hypothetical protein encoded by cg1514. Novel secretory production systems were then developed using the Cg1514 signal peptide and its own promoter. Efficient protein secretion was demonstrated using three protein models: endoxylanase, α‐amylase, and camelid antibody fragment (VHH). For large‐scale production, fed‐batch cultivations were also conducted and high yields were successfully achieved—as high as 1.07 g/L (endoxylanase), 782.6 mg/L (α‐amylase), and 1.57 g/L (VHH)—in the extracellular medium. From the culture media, all model proteins could be simply purified by one‐step column chromatography with high purities and recovery yields. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the development of an efficient secretory expression system by secretome analysis under high cell density cultivation conditions in C. glutamicum. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2016;113: 163–172. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Computing the various pathways of penicillin synthesis and their molar yields
Authors: Prauße Maria T. E. , Schäuble Sascha , Guthke Reinhard , Schuster Stefan
Published: July 2015

More than 80 years after its discovery, penicillin is still a widely used and commercially highly important antibiotic. Here, we analyse the metabolic network of penicillin synthesis in Penicillium chrysogenum based on the concept of elementary flux modes. In particular, we consider the synthesis of the invariant molecular core of the various subtypes of penicillin and the two major ways of incorporating sulfur: transsulfuration and direct sulfhydrylation. 66 elementary modes producing this invariant core are obtained. These show four different yields with respect to glucose, notably ½, 2/5, 1/3, and 2/7, with the highest yield of ½ occurring only when direct sulfhydrylation is used and α‐aminoadipate is completely recycled. In the case of no recycling of this intermediate, we find the maximum yield to be 2/7. We compare these values with earlier literature values. Our analysis provides a systematic overview of the redundancy in penicillin synthesis and a detailed insight into the corresponding routes. Moreover, we derive suggestions for potential knockouts that could increase the average yield. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2016;113: 173–181. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Intrinsic Kinetics of Esterification of Fatty Acids Catalyzed by Supported Ionic Liquid Catalysts
Authors: Heer Parminder Kaur Khabinder Singh , Chabukswar Deepak D. , Gaikar Vilas G.
Published: July 2015

Esterification of palm fatty acid distillate with methanol was investigated for intrinsic kinetics and regarding the effect of catalyst loading, temperature, and methanol to feed molar ratio using ionic liquid acidic catalysts covalently attached to a polystyrene support. The kinetic parameters of the Langmuir‐Hinshelwood‐Hougan‐Watson model of the reaction are determined for comparison with those using p‐toluenesulfonic acid and methanesulfonic acid as homogeneous catalysts considering the phase split of the reaction mixture into two liquid phases during the reaction. The intrinsic parameters could predict the dynamic behavior of the system under various operating conditions.
Constraining shape smoothness in multivariate curve resolution–alternating least squares
Authors: Hugelier Siewert , Devos Olivier , Ruckebusch Cyril
Published: July 2015

The resolution of complex multicomponent hyperspectral images with multivariate curve resolution–alternating least squares is mainly performed by using a limited number of constraints on the pure constituent distribution maps, such as non‐negativity or local constraints. This work proposes a constraint that works with the spatial information of the whole image and has been given the name shape smoothness constraint. Contrary to local constraints, shape smoothness constraint imposes a global character on the distribution map pattern. It uses two‐dimensional P‐splines to enforce smoothness of the global spatial features of the distribution maps generated within the alternating least squares procedure. This allows revealing main pattern(s) in the spatial data leaving high‐frequency signals, corresponding to fine‐scale structures in the image. This approach has been successfully applied on several simulated examples where imposing shape smoothness resulted in the recovery of the correct pattern for the image objects, which in turn provided more accurate distribution maps and spectral profiles. It was also shown that when information about the smoothness of the pattern(s) of the image constituents holds, the constraint can be a flexible and robust alternative for the resolution of real hyperspectral imaging data. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ChemInform Abstract: Revisit of Pressure‐Induced Phase Transition in PbSe: Crystal Structure, and Thermoelastic and Electrical Properties.
Authors: Wang Shanmin , et al.
Published: July 2015

The pressure‐induced phase transition in PbSe is characterized by in situ high‐pressure/high‐temperature synchrotron XRD, electrical resistivity measurements, and DFT band structure calculations.
ChemInform Abstract: Structure and Magnetism of Sr3NiSb2O9.
Authors: Battle Peter D. , Chin Chun‐Mann , Evers Sophie I. , Westwood Mark
Published: July 2015

The title compound is prepared from a stoichiometric mixture of SrCO3, Sb2O5, and NiO (alumina crucible, 1250 °C, 8 d) and characterized by X‐ray and neutron powder diffraction, and magnetic measurements.
ChemInform Abstract: Hydrogen Diffusion in MgH2 Doped with Ti, Mn and Fe.
Authors: Koteski Vasil , Belosevic‐Cavor Jelena , Batalovic Katarina , Radakovic Jana , Umicevic Ana
Published: July 2015

The role of Ti, Fe, and Mn on H diffusion in MgH2 is studied by DFT calculations using the PW91 generalized gradient functional on a 71 atom 2 x 2 x 3 supercell of rutile‐type MgH2 in which one Mg host atom is replaced by the dopant.
ChemInform Abstract: Syntheses, Crystal Structures, and NLO Properties of the Quaternary Sulfides RE3Sb0.33SiS7 (RE: La, Pr).
Authors: Zhao Hua‐Jun
Published: July 2015

The title compounds are synthesized by solid state reactions of stoichiometric mixtures of the elements (evacuated silica tubes, 1223 K, 4 d).
ChemInform Abstract: Moessbauer Spectroscopy Study of a New Layered Iron Oxyselenide Na2Fe2Se2O.
Authors: Nejadsattari Farshad , Stadnik Zbigniew M. , Zukrowski Jan
Published: July 2015

Polycrystalline Na2Fe2Se2O is prepared by solid state reaction according to the literature.
ChemInform Abstract: Li4Ti5O12 Hollow Mesoporous Microspheres Assembled from Nanoparticles for High Rate Lithium‐Ion Battery Anodes.
Authors: Cao Liyun , Hui Yani , Ouyang Haibo , Huang Jianfeng , Xu Zhanwei , Li Jiayin , Zhang Wanzhuo , Chai Simin , Guo Shouwu
Published: July 2015

Li4Ti5O12 hollow mesoporous microspheres assembled from nanoparticles are prepared by hydrothermal reaction of LiOH and TiO2 (autoclave, 160 °C, 2 d) and subsequent calcination (400 °C, 2 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Crystal Structure of a Novel Layered Barium Antimonate Ba2Sb7O13(OH) with Mixed‐Valence Antimony.
Authors: Geng Lei , Meng Chang‐Yu , Wang Miao‐Miao , Dai Kai , Lin Chen‐Sheng , Cheng Wen‐Dan
Published: July 2015

Pale brown crystals of Ba2Sb7O13(OH) are prepared by hydrothermal reaction of Ba(OH)2, Sb2O3, KCl, and H2O (autoclave, 190 °C, 4 d).
ChemInform Abstract: A New Synthetic Route to Rhenium and Iodine Oxide Fluoride Anions: The Reaction Between Oxoanions and Sulfur Tetrafluoride.
Authors: Goettel James T. , Turnbull Douglas , Gerken Michael
Published: July 2015

One‐step preparation of [Ag(MeCN)x][ReVIIO2F4] (x = 0, 2, 4) is achieved by addition of excess SF4 to a frozen MeCN solution of Ag[ReO4] at ‐196 °C followed by warming up to room temp.
ChemInform Abstract: Palladium‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Allylic Substitution in the Presence of Monodentate Furanoside Phosphoramidites.
Authors: Majdecki Maciej , Jurczak Janusz , Bauer Tomasz
Published: July 2015

A library of monodentate furanoside phosphoramidites is prepared and applied in the Pd‐catalyzed allylic alkylation and amination.
ChemInform Abstract: Copper‐Catalyzed Base‐Accelerated Direct Oxidation of C—H Bond to Synthesize Benzils, Isatins, and Quinoxalines with Molecular Oxygen as Terminal Oxidant.
Authors: Yu Jing‐Wen , Mao Shuai , Wang Yong‐Qiang
Published: July 2015

A mild, general, and efficient copper (II)‐catalyzed base‐accelerated oxidation of the C—H bond to synthesize benzils and isatins is developed.
ChemInform Abstract: Organic Hypervalent Iodine(III) Catalyzed ipso‐Hydroxylation of Aryl‐ and Alkylboronic Acids/Esters.
Authors: Chatterjee Nachiketa , Goswami Avijit
Published: July 2015

A novel methodology for the iodine‐catalyzed ipso‐hydroxylation of aryl and alkylboronic acids and esters is developed affording diversely functionalized aromatic and aliphatic alcohols.
ChemInform Abstract: A Simple Iridicycle Catalyst for Efficient Transfer Hydrogenation of N‐Heterocycles in Water.
Authors: Talwar Dinesh , Li Ho Yin , Durham Emma , Xiao Jianliang
Published: July 2015

First time, a cyclometalated iridium complex is used to catalyze the transfer hydrogenation of (iso)quinolines, indoles, and pyridinium salts in an aqueous solution of HCOOH/HCOONa under mild conditions.
ChemInform Abstract: Direct ortho‐Thiolation of Arenes and Alkenes by Nickel Catalysis.
Authors: Lin Cong , Li Danyang , Wang Binjie , Yao Jinzhong , Zhang Yuhong
Published: July 2015

48 examples
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of 2‐Nitroso Heterocyclic Ketene Aminals with (E)‐1‐Nitro‐4‐(2‐nitrovinyl)‐benzene as the Nitrosating Agent.
Authors: Yu Fu‐Chao , Hao Xiao‐Pan , Huang Rong , Yan Sheng‐Jiao , Lin Jun
Published: July 2015

The reaction proceeds with 2‐aryloylmethylidene‐1,3‐diazacycloalkanes with high regioselectivity forming the corresponding α‐nitroso compounds.
ChemInform Abstract: Transition‐Metal‐Free Decarboxylation of Dimethyl Malonate: An Efficient Construction of α‐Amino Acid Esters Using TBAI/TBHP.
Authors: Zhang Jie , Shao Ying , Wang Yaxiong , Li Huihuang , Xu Dongmei , Wan Xiaobing
Published: July 2015

The tandem hydrolysis‐decarboxylation‐nucleophilic substitution of dimethyl malonate with primary, secondary, and tertiary aromatic amines under mild conditions gives α‐amino esters in moderate to good yields.
ChemInform Abstract: Catalytic C—H Imidation of Aromatic Cores of Functional Molecules: Ligand‐Accelerated Cu Catalysis and Application to Materials‐ and Biology‐Oriented Aromatics.
Authors: Kawakami Takahiro , Murakami Kei , Itami Kenichiro
Published: July 2015

The direct C—H imidation of a variety of arenes and heteroarenes is possible with N‐fluorobenzenesulfonamide in the presence of CuBr and 6,6′‐dimethyl‐2,2′‐bipyridine.
ChemInform Abstract: SnCl4—Zn: A Novel Reductive System for Deoxygenative Coupling of Aliphatic, Aromatic, Chalcone Epoxide, and Indanone Carbonyl Compounds to Olefins.
Authors: Pathe Gulab Khushalrao , Ahmed Naseem
Published: July 2015

A novel, efficient, and economical tin‐reagent for the reductive cross‐coupling reaction of carbonyl compounds under McMurry coupling with aliphatic and aromatic ketones, aldehydes, chalcone epoxides, and indanones is developed.
ChemInform Abstract: Iron‐Catalyzed Trifluoromethylation of Enamide.
Authors: Rey‐Rodriguez Romain , Retailleau Pascal , Bonnet Pascal , Gillaizeau Isabelle
Published: July 2015

The first example of an Fe(II)‐catalyzed trifluoromethylation of enamides, e.g. (I), (IV), (VI), (VIII), and (X), using Togni′s reagent (II) as electrophilic CF3 source is reported.