bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early–Mid Pleistocene environments in the Valsequillo Basin, Central Mexico: a reassessment
Authors: Metcalfe Sarah E. , Leng Melanie J. , Kirby Jason R. , Huddart David , Vane Christopher H. , Gonzalez Silvia
Published: June 2016

The Valsequillo Basin in Central Mexico has been of interest due to the presence of megafaunal remains and evidence for early human occupation, but research has been controversial. It has been suggested that extensive and deep lakes characterized the Early Pleistocene environment but sediment exposure is highly fragmentary and reliable dating has been difficult. Here we report, for the first time, Early Pleistocene palaeoenvironmental reconstructions using stable isotopes, diatoms, tephra and pollen. We studied several stratigraphic sections of mainly non‐volcanic rocks, containing the 1.3‐Ma Xalnene Ash as a stratigraphic marker. The isotope and other proxy data show that topographically low points in the basin were occupied by spring‐fed, shallow water lakes during the Early–Mid Pleistocene, with a trend to drier conditions. The basin was a dynamic volcaniclastic environment during this period, with the production of the Toluquilla volcanic sequence and other rhyolitic–dacitic volcanic ashes interbedded with the lake sediments at the sections studied. There is no evidence from the sections for extensive and deep lakes before or after deposition of the Xalnene Ash. Wetter conditions in the basin during the Early Pleistocene would have made it attractive for megafauna. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Journal of Quaternary Science Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
A tale of two lakes: a multi‐proxy comparison of Lateglacial and Holocene environmental change in Cappadocia, Turkey
Authors: Roberts Neil , Allcock Samantha L. , Arnaud Fabien , Dean Jonathan R. , Eastwood Warren J. , Jones Matthew D. , Leng Melanie J. , Metcalfe Sarah E. , Malet Emmanuel , Woodbridge Jessie , Yiğitbaşıoğlu Hakan
Published: June 2016

Individual palaeoenvironmental records represent a combination of regional‐scale (e.g. climatic) and site‐specific local factors. Here we compare multiple climate proxies from two nearby maar lake records, assuming that common signals are due to regional‐scale forcing. A new core sequence from Nar Lake in Turkey is dated by varves and U–Th to the last 13.8 ka. Markedly dry periods during the Lateglacial stadial, at 4.3–3.7 and at 3.2–2.6 ka BP, are associated with peaks in Mg/dolomite, positive δ18O, elevated diatom‐inferred electrical conductivity, an absence of laminated sediments and low Quercus/chenopod ratios. Wet phases occurred during the early–mid Holocene and 1.5–0.6 ka BP, characterized by negative δ18O, calcite precipitation, high Ca/Sr ratios, a high percentage of planktonic diatoms, laminated sediments and high Quercus/chenopod ratios. Comparison with the record from nearby Eski Acıgöl shows good overall correspondence for many proxies, especially for δ18O. Differences are related to basin infilling and lake ontogeny at Eski Acıgöl, which consequently fails to register climatic changes during the last 2 ka, and to increased flux of lithogenic elements into Nar Lake during the last 2.6 ka, not primarily climatic in origin. In attempting to separate a regional signal from site‐specific ‘noise’, two lakes may therefore be better than one.
Measurements of hydrogen, oxygen and carbon isotope variability inSphagnummoss along a micro‐topographical gradient in a southern Patagonian peatland
Authors: Loader N. J. , Street‐Perrott F. A. , Mauquoy D. , Roland T. P. , van Bellen S. , Daley T. J. , Davies D. , Hughes P. D. M. , Pancotto V. O. , Young G. H. F. , Amesbury M. J. , Charman D. J. , Mallon G. , Yu Z. C.
Published: June 2016

Peat archives offer a diverse range of physical and chemical proxies from which it is possible to study past environmental and ecological changes. Direct numerical calibration and verification is difficult so process‐based and mechanistic studies are therefore required to establish and quantify links between environmental changes and their associated proxy‐responses. Traditional ‘space‐for‐time’ calibrations provide a solution to this calibration problem, but are often unable to isolate a single environmental variable from other potentially confounding variables. In this study, we explored the potential of a site‐specific ‘space‐for‐time’ approach applied to a hummock‐hollow transect on an ombrotrophic raised bog in Patagonia, southern Chile. Coupled stable carbon, oxygen and hydrogen isotopic measurements were made on individual samples ofSphagnummoss cellulose and compared with plant‐associated waters, local hydrology, temperature and relative humidity, sampled at the same points along the study transect. Results reveal a range of environmental responses, which were supported by plant‐physiological models in the case of carbon and oxygen isotopes. For hydrogen isotopes, the results obtained from cellulose indicated a need for further research into hydrogen isotope fractionation inSphagnum. We recommend conducting site‐specific characterization of plant response to support the development of peat‐based isotope records for palaeoenvironmental research, and where logistically possible, that monitoring is conducted over timescales appropriate to the time‐integrative nature of theSphagnumrecord.
Preharvest salicylic acid and acetylsalicylic acid treatments preserve quality and enhance antioxidant systems during postharvest storage of sweet cherry cultivars
Authors: Giménez M José , Serrano María , Valverde Juan Miguel , Martínez‐Romero Domingo , Castillo Salvador , Valero Daniel , Guillén Fabián
Published: June 2016

BACKGROUND

Sweet cherries are much appreciated by consumers as a result of their organoleptic quality attributes and antioxidant properties, although they deteriorate rapidly after harvest. Different preharvest strategies have been carried out to increase their quality at the time of harvest. We present data regarding the effect of preharvest salicylic acid (SA) and acetyl salicylic acid (ASA) treatments on sweet cherry quality during postharvest storage.

RESULTS

At harvest and during postharvest storage, sweet cherry fruits (‘Sweet Heart’, ‘Sweet Late’ and ‘Lapins’) from SA (0.5 mmol L−1) and ASA (1 mmol L−1) treated trees had a higher colour (lower chroma index), firmness, total soluble solids, total phenolics, total anthocyanins and hydrophilic total antioxidant activity. In addition, the activity of the antioxidant enzymes catalase, peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and ascorbate peroxidase was also enhanced in SA‐ and ASA‐treated cherries.

CONCLUSION

Both SA and ASA preharvest treatments could be promising tools for improving sweet cherry quality at harvest and after storage, with an additional effect on delaying the postharvest ripening process by increasing the levels of antioxidant compounds and the activity of the antioxidant enzymes. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Preparation of ellagic acid molecularly imprinted polymeric microspheres based on distillation–precipitation polymerization for the efficient purification of a crude extract
Authors: Zhang Hua , Zhao Shangge , Zhang Lu , Han Bo , Yao Xincheng , Chen Wen , Hu Yanli
Published: June 2016

Molecularly imprinted polymeric microspheres with a high recognition ability toward the template molecule, ellagic acid, were synthesized based on distillation–precipitation polymerization. The as‐obtained polymers were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. Static, dynamic, and selective binding tests were adopted to study the binding properties and the molecular recognition ability of the prepared polymers for ellagic acid. The results indicated that the maximum static adsorption capacity of the prepared polymers toward ellagic acid was 37.07 mg/g and the adsorption equilibrium time was about 100 min when the concentration of ellagic acid was 40 mg/mL. Molecularly imprinted polymeric microspheres were also highly selective toward ellagic acid compared with its analogue quercetin. It was found that the content of ellagic acid in the pomegranate peel extract was enhanced from 23 to 86% after such molecularly imprinted solid‐phase extraction process. This work provides an efficient way for effective separation and enrichment of ellagic acid from complex matrix, which is especially valuable in industrial production.
Selective stimulation of facial muscles with a penetrating electrode array in the feline model
Authors: Sahyouni Ronald , Bhatt Jay , Djalilian Hamid R. , Tang William C. , Middlebrooks John C. , Lin Harrison W.
Published: June 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

Permanent facial nerve injury is a difficult challenge for both patients and physicians given its potential for debilitating functional, cosmetic, and psychological sequelae. Although current surgical interventions have provided considerable advancements in facial nerve rehabilitation, they often fail to fully address all impairments. We aim to introduce an alternative approach to facial nerve rehabilitation.

Study Design

Acute experiments in animals with normal facial function.

Methods

The study included three anesthetized cats. Four facial muscles (levator auris longus, orbicularis oculi, nasalis, and orbicularis oris) were monitored with a standard electromyographic (EMG) facial nerve monitoring system with needle electrodes. The main trunk of the facial nerve was exposed, and a 16‐channel penetrating electrode array was placed into the nerve. Electrical current pulses were delivered to each stimulating electrode individually. Elicited EMG voltage outputs were recorded for each muscle.

Results

Stimulation through individual channels selectively activated restricted nerve populations, resulting in selective contraction of individual muscles. Increasing stimulation current levels resulted in increasing EMG voltage responses. Typically, selective activation of two or more distinct muscles was successfully achieved via a single placement of the multi‐channel electrode array by selection of appropriate stimulation channels.

Conclusion

We have established in the animal model the ability of a penetrating electrode array to selectively stimulate restricted fiber populations within the facial nerve and to selectively elicit contractions in specific muscles and regions of the face. These results show promise for the development of a facial nerve implant system.

Level of Evidence

N/A.Laryngoscope, 2016 127:460–465, 2017
Comparison of caloric and head‐impulse tests during the attacks of Meniere's disease
Authors: Lee Sun‐Uk , Kim Hyo‐Jung , Koo Ja‐Won , Kim Ji‐Soo
Published: June 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

To aid in diagnosis of Meniere's disease (MD) during the attacks using caloric and head‐impulse tests (HITs).

Study Design

Retrospective case series review.

Methods

We analyzed the results of bithermal caloric and HITs during the attacks in 16 patients with MD. Quantitative analyses of HITs were conducted using a magnetic search coil technique.

Results

In unilateral MD (14 patients, 42 semicircular canals), the head impulse gain of the vestibulo‐ocular reflex (VOR) was either normal (28 of 42, 67%), decreased (8 of 42, 19%), or increased (6 of 42, 14%) for each semicircular canal in the affected ear. Likewise, the head impulse VOR gain was either normal (29 of 42, 69%), increased (11 of 42, 26%), or decreased (2 of 42, 5%) in the intact ear. The VOR gain for the horizontal canal was significantly lower on the affected side (P = 0.013). However, the VOR gains for the anterior and posterior canals did not differ between the sides (P = 0.270, P = 0.282). In bilateral MD (two patients, 12 semicircular canals), the VOR gain was either decreased (6 of 12, 50%) or normal (6 of 12, 50%) in either ear. In contrast, the caloric responses were usually decreased in the affected ear (7 of 11, 64%, including one with bilateral MD).

Conclusion

During the attacks of MD, HITs showed varied results between the ears and among the canals, although the caloric responses were usually decreased in the involved ear. These dissociations suggest a frequency‐dependent impairment of canal function or mechanical property of the endolymphatic hydrops during the attacks of MD.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 127:702–708, 2017
Identification and characterization of novel ligase I inhibitors
Authors: Pandey Monica , Kumar Sujeet , Goldsmith Gunaseelan , Srivastava Mrinal , Elango Santhini , Shameem Mohammad , Bannerjee Dibyendu , Choudhary Bibha , Karki Subhas S. , Raghavan Sathees C.
Published: June 2016

The terminal step of ligation of single and/or double‐strand breaks during physiological processes such as DNA replication, repair and recombination requires participation of DNA ligases in all mammals. DNA Ligase I has been well characterised to play vital roles during these processes. Considering the indispensable role of DNA Ligase I, a therapeutic strategy to impede proliferation of cancer cells is by using specific small molecule inhibitors against it. In the present study, we have designed and chemically synthesised putative DNA Ligase I inhibitors. Based on various biochemical and biophysical screening approaches, we identify two prospective DNA Ligase I inhibitors, SCR17 and SCR21. Both the inhibitors blocked ligation of nicks on DNA in a concentration‐dependent manner, when catalysed by cell‐free extracts or purified Ligase I. Docking studies in conjunction with biolayer interferometry and gel shift assays revealed that both SCR17 and SCR21 can bind to Ligase I, particularly to the DNA Binding Domain of Ligase I with KD values in nanomolar range. The inhibitors did not show significant affinity towards DNA Ligase III and DNA Ligase IV. Further, addition of Ligase I could restore the joining, when the inhibitors were treated with testicular cell‐free extracts. Ex vivo studies using multiple assays showed that even though cell death was limited in the presence of inhibitors in cancer cells, their proliferation was compromised. Hence, we identify two promising DNA Ligase I inhibitors, which can be used in biochemical and cellular assays, and could be further modified and optimised to target cancer cells. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Solution of the inverse scattering problem from inhomogeneous media using affine invariant sampling
Authors: Daza Maria L. , Capistrán Marcos A. , Christen J. Andrés , Guadarrama Lilí
Published: June 2016

We pose a Bayesian formulation of the inverse problem associated to recovering both the support and the refractive index of a convex obstacle given measurements of near‐field scattered waves. Aiming at sampling efficiently from the arising posterior distribution using Markov Chain Monte Carlo, we construct a sampler (probability transition kernel) that is invariant under affine transformations of space. A point cloud method is used to approximate the scatterer support. We show that affine invariant sampling can successfully address the presence of multiple scales in inverse scattering in inhomogeneous media. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nonexistence results for higher order pseudo‐parabolic equations in the Heisenberg group
Authors: Alsaedi Ahmed , Ahmad Bashir , Kirane Mokhtar , Al‐Yami Maryem
Published: June 2016

Sufficient conditions are obtained for the nonexistence of solutions to the nonlinear higher order pseudo‐parabolic equation

urn:x-wiley:mma:media:mma4052:mma4052-math-0001

where
is the Kohn‐Laplace operator on the (2N + 1)‐dimensional Heisenberg group
, m≥1,p > 1. Then, this result is extended to the case of a 2 × 2‐system of the same type. Our technique of proof is based on judicious choices of the test functions in the weak formulation of the sought solutions. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of constitutive inactivation of the myostatin gene on the gain in muscle strength during postnatal growth in two murine models
Authors: Stantzou Amalia , Ueberschlag‐Pitiot Vanessa , Thomasson Remi , Furling Denis , Bonnieu Anne , Amthor Helge , Ferry Arnaud
Published: June 2016

Introduction: The effect of constitutive inactivation of the gene encoding myostatin on the gain in muscle performance during postnatal growth has not been well characterized. Methods: We analyzed 2 murine myostatin knockout (KO) models, (i) the Lee model (KOLee) and (ii) the Grobet model (KOGrobet), and measured the contraction of tibialis anterior muscle in situ. Results: Absolute maximal isometric force was increased in 6‐month‐old KOLee and KOGrobet mice, as compared to wild‐type mice. Similarly, absolute maximal power was increased in 6‐month‐old KOLee mice. In contrast, specific maximal force (relative maximal force per unit of muscle mass was decreased in all 6‐month‐old male and female KO mice, except in 6‐month‐old female KOGrobet mice, whereas specific maximal power was reduced only in male KOLee mice. Conclusions: Genetic inactivation of myostatin increases maximal force and power, but in return it reduces muscle quality, particularly in male mice. Muscle Nerve 55: 254–261, 2017
BioBusiness
Authors: Maelicke Alfred
Published: June 2016

Mit VBU und DIB hat Deutschland nun zwei Industrievereinigungen auf dem Gebiet der Biotechnologie. Der BioRegioWettbewerb des BMBF wurde durch den Leitprojekt‐Wettbewerb flankiert. Trotz Finanznot von Bund und Ländern fließen die Fördergelder weiter, und Biotechnologie wird nun auch in unserem Land zu einer attraktiven Kapitalanlage. Biowissenschaften und BioBusiness sind im Aufwind.
Generation of a realistic 3D sand assembly using X‐ray micro‐computed tomography and spherical harmonic‐based principal component analysis
Authors: Zhou B. , Wang J.
Published: June 2016

Three‐dimensional particle morphology is a significant problem in the discrete element modeling of granular sand. The major technical challenge is generating a realistic 3D sand assembly that is composed of a large number of random‐shaped particles containing essential morphological features of natural sands. Based on X‐ray micro‐computed tomography data collected from a series of image processing techniques, we used the spherical harmonics (SH) analysis to represent and reconstruct the multi‐scale features of real 3D particle morphologies. The SH analysis was extended to some highly complex particles with sharp corners and surface cavities. We then proposed a statistical approach for the generation of realistic particle assembly of a given type of sand based on the principle component analysis (PCA). The PCA aims to identify the major pattern of the coefficient matrix, which is made up of the SH coefficients of all the particles involved in the analysis. This approach takes into account the particle size effect on the variation of particle morphology, which is observed from the available results of micro‐computed tomography and QICPIC analyses of sand particle morphology. Using the aforementioned approach, two virtual sand samples were generated, whose statistics of morphological parameters were compared with those measured from real sand particles. The comparison shows that the proposed approach is capable of generating a realistic sand assembly that retains the major morphological features of the mother sand. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Langerhans cell histiocytosis is a neoplasm and consequently its recurrence is a relapse: In memory of Bob Arceci
Authors: Egeler R. Maarten , Katewa Satyendra , Leenen Pieter J.M. , Beverley Peter , Collin Matthew , Ginhoux Florent , Arceci Robert J. , Rollins Barrett J. ,   for the Steering Committee of the Nikolas Symposium
Published: June 2016

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) remains a poorly understood disorder with heterogeneous clinical presentations characterized by focal or disseminated lesions that contain excessive CD1a+ langerin+ cells with dendritic cell features known as “LCH cells.” Two of the major questions investigated over the past century have been (i) the origin of LCH cells and (ii) whether LCH is primarily an immune dysregulatory disorder or a neoplasm. Current opinion is that LCH cells are likely to arise from hematopoietic precursor cells, although the stage of derailment and site of transformation remain unclear and may vary in patients with different extent of disease. Over the years, evidence has provided the view that LCH is a neoplasm. The demonstration of clonality of LCH cells, insufficient evidence alone for neoplasia, is now bolstered by finding driver somatic mutations in BRAF in up to 55% of patients with LCH, and activation of the RAS‐RAF‐MEK‐ERK (where MEK and ERK are mitogen‐activated protein kinase and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase, respectively) pathway in nearly 100% of patients with LCH. Herein, we review the evidence that recurrent genetic abnormalities characterized by activating oncogenic mutations should satisfy prerequisites for LCH to be called a neoplasm. As a consequence, recurrent episodes of LCH should be considered relapsed disease rather than disease reactivation. Mapping the complete genetic landscape of this intriguing disease will provide additional support for the conclusion that LCH is a neoplasm and is likely to provide more potential opportunities for molecularly targeted therapies.
Rapid Detection and Characterisation of Triterpene Saponins from the Root of Pulsatilla chinensis (Bunge) Regel by HPLC‐ESI‐QTOF‐MS/MS
Authors: Ling Yun , Lin Zhanqing , Zha Wenjuan , Lian Tou , You Shanshan
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Triterpene saponins are the major bioactive components in the root of Pulsatilla chinensis (Bunge) Regel (RPC), and have been reported to possess antitumor and immunological adjuvant activities. However, the isolation, purification and elucidation procedures of triterpene saponins from RPC are difficult and time consuming due to high polarity and structural similarity.

Objectives

To develop an analytical strategy for discovering and elucidating triterpene saponins in RPC.

Methods

Methanolic extract of RPC is analysed by high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionisation and quadrupole time‐of‐flight‐mass spectrometry (HPLC‐ESI‐QTOF‐MS/MS). The MS and MS/MS experiments are conducted using the negative‐ionisation mode, in order to provide molecular‐mass information and production spectra for the structural elucidation of compounds.

Results

Based on retention times, accurate mass and mass spectrometric fragmentation, 24 triterpene saponins are identified or tentatively elucidated from RPC, of which nine triterpene saponins were not reported previously.

Conclusion

The HPLC‐ESI‐QTOF‐MS/MS could be employed as a rapid, effective technique to screen and identify triterpene saponins in RPC without tedious and time‐consuming isolation of pure constituents. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Direct Coupling of HPTLC with MALDI‐TOF MS for Qualitative Detection of Flavonoids on Phytochemical Fingerprints
Authors: Kroslakova Ivana , Pedrussio Simona , Wolfram Evelyn
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Thin layer chromatographic fingerprints of plant raw materials and extracts for food and pharma applications often focus on phenol carbonic acids and flavonoids. The visual detection and comparison of Rf values of applied reference substances only renders limited phytochemical information. Recently, direct coupling of TLC with MALDI‐TOF MS has been successfully applied for analysis of biologically relevant compounds such as lipids. The mass analysis of low molecular weight TLC or HPTLC fingerprints of flavonoids has, to our knowledge, not yet been investigated.

Objectives

In this study, the feasibility of direct coupling of HPTLC with UV‐MALDI‐TOF MS for determination of molecular mass of the ubiquitously present flavonol glycoside, rutin, and flavone glycoside, luteolin‐7‐O‐glucoside, as well as their corresponding aglycones, quercetin and luteolin, is demonstrated.

Methodology

HPTLC plate suitable for combination with a MALDI MS adapter was used for chromatographic separation of compounds of interest. After separation, the plate was sprayed with 2,5 dihydroxybenzoic acid as a MALDI matrix using an automated spraying device. After drying, the developed chromatograms were scanned by UV‐MALDI‐TOF MS in positive mode with a spatial resolution of 0.2 mm.

Results

All compounds studied were distinctly detected in MALDI‐TOF mass spectra. This is particularly pertinent for the co‐eluted aglycones luteolin and quercetin, which could not have been distinguished by the common visual HPTLC derivatisation and evaluation.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the potential of MALDI‐TOF MS for the analysis of low molecular weight fingerprints of flavonoids directly from their HPTLC chromatogram. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and evaluation of properties of poly(p‐phenylenevinylene) based 1,3,4‐oxadiazole systems for optoelectronics and nonlinear optical applications
Authors: Kaippamangalath Nimisha , Gopalakrishnapanicker Unnikrishnan
Published: June 2016

Two new π‐conjugated polymers, namely poly(p‐phenylenevinylene‐1,3,4‐oxadiazole) (PPVO) and poly(p‐(nitro‐phenylene)vinylene‐1,3,4‐oxadiazole) (PNPVO), were synthesized and characterized. The Gilch polymerization technique, using dihalo derivatives of 1,3,4‐oxadiazoles, was employed to synthesize them under mild reaction conditions. The macromolecules exhibit good solubility in dimethylformamide, formamide and dimethyl sulfoxide and thus effectively address the insolubility issues associated with many oxadiazole derivatives for device fabrication. They show bright luminescence in the blue‐green region of the electromagnetic spectrum and have optical band gaps suited for an emissive layer in organic light‐emitting devices. PPVO and PNPPO show good non‐linear optical responses also in solution phase, with third‐order nonlinear susceptibilities of the order of 10−12esu. Interestingly, they exhibit good antimicrobial characteristics under examination with Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus. The results prove that these macromolecules are ideal materials to use as emissive layers in various light‐emitting devices and NLO applications. The excellent antimicrobial activity can be utilized for their applications in clinical and healthcare areas. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Lithium purification from aqueous solutions using bioinspired redox‐active melanin membranes
Authors: Park Hang‐Ah , Kim Young Jo , Kwon Ik Soo , Klosterman Luke , Bettinger Christopher J
Published: June 2016

The separation of lithium from magnesium ions in salt brines is an important step in producing raw lithium for prospective use in electrochemical storage systems. Liquid–liquid extraction of Mg2+ ions from Li+ ions is challenging because of comparable thermodynamic behavior in aqueous solutions. Removing Mg2+ ions from brines using consumable ion‐exchange membranes is also a challenging prospect due to poor chemical selectivity and compromised sustainability. Here, we propose the use of redox‐active catechols in the form of melanin pigments for selective removal of Mg2+ ions from aqueous solutions. Synthetic melanin films are oxidatively polymerized on stainless steel meshes from aqueous solutions of dopamine precursors to create electrochemically functionalized polydopamine membranes. The binding selectivity of redox‐active catechol‐bearing polydopamine melanin for Mg2+ ions in aqueous solutions was measured as a function of electrochemical cycling. The binding kinetics of Mg2+ ions to polydopamine pigments was measured. Mg2+ ions binding selectivity to polydopamine in mixed aqueous solutions containing both Li+ and Mg2+ ions were also measured. Additionally, the equilibrium binding concentrations of Mg2+ ions to polydopamine were achieved very rapidly (<1 min). Redox‐active polydopamine membranes therefore show promise as functional materials for the separation of Mg2+ and Li+ ions in aqueous solutions. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Melanin synthesis under oxygen pressure
Authors: Bronze‐Uhle Erika Soares , Paulin João Vitor , Piacenti‐Silva Marina , Battocchio Chiara , Rocco Maria Luiza Miranda , Graeff Carlos Frederico de Oliveira
Published: June 2016

Melanins are promising materials for organic bioelectronics devices like transistors, sensors and batteries. In this study, the chemical structural changes of melanin synthesized by the auto‐oxidation of l‐3,4‐dihydroxyphenylalanine (l‐DOPA) were analyzed for a new synthetic procedure that uses oxygen under pressure (4−8 atm). TEM, dynamic light scattering, Fourier transform IR, NMR and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to characterize the material. Under oxygen pressure, melanin synthesis is accelerated; the polymer obtained is found to have structural differences, most notably a higher number of carbonyl groups and different surface charges compared to conventional synthetic melanin. As a consequence it has higher homogeneity and is soluble in water. To explain these findings a reaction mechanism is proposed based on current melanogenesis models. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Polycarbazole by chemical oxidative interfacial polymerization: morphology and electrical conductivity based on synthesis conditions
Authors: Sangwan Watchara , Paradee Nophawan , Sirivat Anuvat
Published: June 2016

Polycarbazole (PCB) was synthesized via an interfacial polymerization method using carbazole monomer and ammonium persulfate as the oxidizing agent. The effects of surfactant type (non‐ionic Tween 20, cationic cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and anionic sodium dodecylsulfate) and concentration on the synthesized PCB were investigated based on the roles of micelle formation. Electron microscopy images revealed various PCB morphologies depending on the surfactant type and concentration. The newly found morphological structures of the PCB were macroporous honeycomb, connected hollow sphere and smaller hollow sphere depending on the surfactant type. The highest electrical conductivity of doped PCB_CTAB obtained was 11.3 ± 0.36 S cm−1. The electrical conductivity values of the doped PCB synthesized with CTAB were higher than that without a surfactant by three orders of magnitude. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
A versatile synthetic path to thiol containing polysiloxanes
Authors: Perju Elena , Dünki Simon J. , Opris Dorina M.
Published: June 2016

A synthetic strategy to polydimethylsiloxanes and polymethylsiloxanes containing thiol functions as end‐ or side‐groups, respectively, is presented. Such polymers are important starting materials for elastomeric networks and postpolymerization modifications. The synthesis starts either with vinyl end‐functionalized polydimethylsiloxanes or with polymethylvinylsiloxanes. The vinyl groups are reacted either with thioacetic acid or with a thioacetic acid/butanethiol mixture via a UV‐initiated thiol‐ene reaction to form the respective thioester quantitatively within few minutes. The thioesters are subsequently deprotected to the respective thiols by reduction with LiAlH4. The resulting thiol containing polysiloxanes can be used for the formation of networks or another functionalization. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 2940–2948
A Detailed Investigation of Radicals and Ions in ECR Methane/Argon Microwave Discharge
Authors: Pokorný Petr , Mišina Martin , Novotný Michal , Fitl Přemysl , Vlček Jan , Musil Jindřich , Marešová Eva , Bulíř Jiří , Lančok Jan
Published: June 2016

In this work, we focus on study of the formation and behavior of molecules, radicals, and ions in ECR discharge in a mixture of argon and methane. Discharge properties are studied at various conditions; total gas flow (0–50 sccm), absorbed microwave power (0–900 W) and the partial pressure of methane (0–1.2 Pa). Neutral mass spectrometry does not reveal the presence of radical CH5 commonly described in literature. Spectra show the presence of atomic hydrogen H and especially H2 molecules. The number of CH4+ and CH3+ species shows that the amount of CH4+ in areas power up to 350 W is high, but with further increase of the power their amount decreases. With the increasing power the CH3+ ions are more intensively generated. The obtained data helps optimize process conditions for the fabrication of diamond and DLC thin films.
Mass spectrometry methods for predicting antibiotic resistance
Authors: Charretier Yannick , Schrenzel Jacques
Published: June 2016

Developing elaborate techniques for clinical applications can be a complicated process. Whole‐cell MALDI‐TOF MS revolutionized reliable microorganism identification in clinical microbiology laboratories and is now replacing phenotypic microbial identification. This technique is a generic, accurate, rapid, and cost‐effective growth‐based method. Antibiotic resistance keeps emerging in environmental and clinical microorganisms, leading to clinical therapeutic challenges, especially for Gram‐negative bacteria. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing is used to reliably predict antimicrobial success in treating infection, but it is inherently limited by the need to isolate and grow cultures, delaying the application of appropriate therapies. Antibiotic resistance prediction by growth‐independent methods is expected to reduce the turnaround time. Recently, the potential of next‐generation sequencing and microarrays in predicting microbial resistance has been demonstrated, and this review evaluates the potential of MS in this field. First, technological advances are described, and the possibility of predicting antibiotic resistance by MS is then illustrated for three prototypical human pathogens: Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Clearly, MS methods can identify antimicrobial resistance mediated by horizontal gene transfers or by mutations that affect the quantity of a gene product, whereas antimicrobial resistance mediated by target mutations remains difficult to detect.
Immunoproteomics of Aspergillus for the development of biomarkers and immunotherapies
Authors: Kniemeyer Olaf , Ebel Frank , Krüger Thomas , Bacher Petra , Scheffold Alexander , Luo Ting , Strassburger Maria , Brakhage Axel A.
Published: June 2016

Filamentous fungi of the genus Aspergillus play significant roles as pathogens causing superficial and invasive infections as well as allergic reactions in humans. Particularly invasive mycoses caused by Aspergillus species are characterized by high mortality rates due to difficult diagnosis and insufficient antifungal therapy. The application of immunoproteomic approaches has a great potential to identify new targets for the diagnosis, therapy, and vaccine development of diseases caused by Aspergillus species. Serological proteome analyses (SERPA) that combine 2D electrophoresis with Western blotting are still one of the most popular techniques for the identification of antigenic proteins. However, recently a growing number of approaches have been developed to identify proteins, which either provoke an antibody response or which represent targets of T‐cell immunity in patients with allergy or fungal infections. Here, we review advances in the studies of immune responses against pathogenic Aspergilli as well as the current status of diagnosis and immunotherapy of Aspergillus infections.
Characterization of the structure and catalytic activity of Legionella pneumophila VipF
Authors: Young Byron H. , Caldwell Tracy A. , McKenzie Aidan M. , Kokhan Oleksandr , Berndsen Christopher E.
Published: June 2016

The pathogenic bacteria Legionella pneumophila is known to cause Legionnaires' Disease, a severe pneumonia that can be fatal to immunocompromised individuals and the elderly. Shohdy et al. identified the L. pneumophila vacuole sorting inhibitory protein VipF as a putative N‐acetyltransferase based on sequence homology. We have characterized the basic structural and functional properties of VipF to confirm this original functional assignment. Sequence conservation analysis indicates two putative CoA‐binding regions within VipF. Homology modeling and small angle X‐ray scattering suggest a monomeric, dual‐domain structure joined by a flexible linker. Each domain contains the characteristic beta‐splay motif found in many acetyltransferases, suggesting that VipF may contain two active sites. Docking experiments suggest reasonable acetyl‐CoA binding locations within each beta‐splay motif. Broad substrate screening indicated that VipF is capable of acetylating chloramphenicol and both domains are catalytically active. Given that chloramphenicol is not known to be N‐acetylated, this is a surprising finding suggesting that VipF is capable of O‐acetyltransferase activity. Proteins 2016; 84:1422–1430. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Delivery strategies: RNA interference in agriculture and human health
Authors: Heidebrecht Richard W
Published: June 2016

Crop protection through expression of introduced insecticidal proteins is a well‐established technique. Modifications of endogenous gene expression have also been used successfully to produce safe and effective agrochemical products. The existing gene expression regulatory apparatus can be employed to alter messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) stability in the host species through a ribonucleic acid interference (RNAi) mechanism. Such solutions are currently delivered by incorporation of new genes into the host plant. Direct delivery of RNAi is being extensively explored in the clinic to treat selected human diseases and could be advantageous in agriculture. What are the unifying characteristics of successful delivery agents, and how can we project those observations into the future? © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Plasma treatment of detonation and HPHT nanodiamonds in diffuse coplanar surface barrier discharge in H2/N2 flow
Authors: Jirásek Vít , Čech Jan , Kozak Halyna , Artemenko Anna , Černák Mirko , Kromka Alexander
Published: June 2016

Due to extraordinary properties and biocompatibility, diamond nanoparticles – nanodiamonds (NDs) are considered for various biomedical applications. Amongst other functional groups which may be grafted on the NDs surface, the amines (NHx) are highly demanded linkers for biomolecules and dyes. In this regard, a non‐destructive, non‐hazardous and low‐cost method of NDs amination would further accelerate their industrial applications in biomedicine and life science. Here we present a study on NDs treatment using diffuse coplanar surface barrier discharge in the gas mixture H2:N2 = 1:1 at the atmospheric pressure. Detonation and high pressure–high temperature nanoparticles (D‐NDs and HPHT‐NDs) were used either as‐received or air‐annealed. The FTIR spectra confirmed the presence of N–H stretching vibrations for all kinds of NDs after the treatment. It was revealed by XPS and FTIR measurements that both kinds of D‐NDs (as‐received and air‐annealed) exhibited higher content of −NH2 functions in the detected nitrogen groups than HPHT‐NDs. The treatment of as‐received D‐NDs led to the conversion of −COOH groups to amides. A large increase of C–H bonds after the discharge treatment was found, especially for the annealed NDs forms. Raman spectroscopy revealed a decrease of sp2 carbon after the treatment of the as‐received HPHT‐NDs.
Patterned Ga2O3 for current blocking and optical scattering in visible light‐emitting diodes
Authors: Kim Seung Hwan , Lee Keon Hwa , Park Hyun Jung , Shervin Shahab , Asadirad Mojtaba , Lee Sung‐Nam , Kwak Joon Seop , Ryou Jae‐Hyun
Published: June 2016

Patterned gallium oxide (Ga2O3) using one‐step patterning followed by oxygen plasma treatment on a p‐GaN layer can function as both current‐blocking and optical‐scattering regions for uniform current spreading and improved light‐extraction efficiencies. The results showed that the optical output power of the LED with patterned Ga2O3 increased by 16.8% at 60 mA compared to that of conventional LEDs. Numerical studies on light tracing and emission pattern, and external quantum efficiency evaluation support the improvement of both uniform current spreading and light‐extraction efficiencies by patterned Ga2O3.
Reliability Evaluation Model of Component‐Based Software Based on Complex Network Theory
Authors: Li Kewen , Liu Lu , Zhai Jiannan , Kosgoftaar Taghi M. , Shao Mingwen , Liu Wenying
Published: June 2016

Component‐based software development is now a widely used software development technique. In this paper, we propose a reliability evaluation model used to evaluate component‐based software systems, focusing on analyzing the effects of different components on software reliability. Our model utilizes the complex network theory based on the state‐based evaluation approach. First, a detailed analysis is made to identify the components used in a software system. Next, the most influential node discovery algorithm in complex network theory is used to calculate the impact factor of each component. Finally, the reliability of the software system is evaluated based on the impact factors. Results show that the proposed model achieves better accuracy compared with conventional models by using the internal structure of the software system during evaluation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Multivariate Loss Function Approach to Robust Design of Systems with Multiple Performance Characteristics
Authors: Soh Woojin , Kim Heeyoung , Yum Bong‐Jin
Published: June 2016

The Taguchi robust design method traditionally deals with single‐characteristic problems. Various methods have been developed for extending the Taguchi single‐characteristic robust design method to the case of multi‐characteristic robust design problems. However, most of those methods have shortcomings in that they do not properly consider the variance–covariance structures among performance characteristics and/or do not preserve the original properties of the Taguchi signal‐to‐noise ratio for single‐characteristic robust design problems. To overcome these shortcomings, this paper develops a multivariate loss function approach to multi‐characteristic robust design problems with an appropriately defined signal‐to‐noise ratio. Its performance is evaluated using simulated examples, and the results indicate that it generally outperforms existing representative methods for correlated as well as uncorrelated experimental data. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In situ PM‐IRRAS studies of organothiols and organosilane monolayers–ZnO interfaces at high water activities
Authors: Torun Boray , Giner Ignacio , Grundmeier Guido , Ozcan Ozlem
Published: June 2016

In situ photoelastic‐modulated Fourier transform infrared reflection absorption spectroscopy has been applied for the investigation of interfacial stability of organothiol and organosilane monolayer films on nanocrystalline zinc oxide thin films. It has been shown that for octadecyltriethoxysilane films, exposure to high water activities results in physisorption of water in the cross‐linked film. This high water activity at the interface leads to a reversible wet de‐adhesion of the interfacial silanol groups from the ZnO surface. However, the organothiol seems to form a denser monolayer and a stable by S–Zn bond that is resistant to the competition with adsorbed water. The reversible attachment for cross‐linked organosilanol films has been demonstrated for the first time by means of an in situ spectroscopic method on model ZnO surfaces. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A goodness‐of‐fit test for the ordered stereotype model
Authors: Fernández Daniel , Liu Ivy
Published: June 2016

This paper presents a new goodness‐of‐fit test for an ordered stereotype model used for an ordinal response variable. The proposed test is based on the well‐known Hosmer–Lemeshow test and its version for the proportional odds regression model. The latter test statistic is calculated from a grouping scheme assuming that the levels of the ordinal response are equally spaced which might be not true. One of the main advantages of the ordered stereotype model is that it allows us to determine a new uneven spacing of the ordinal response categories, dictated by the data. The proposed test takes the use of this new adjusted spacing to partition data. A simulation study shows good performance of the proposed test under a variety of scenarios. Finally, the results of the application in two examples are presented. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Discovering early diabetic neuropathy from epidermal nerve fiber patterns
Authors: Andersson Claes , Guttorp Peter , Särkkä Aila
Published: June 2016

Epidermal nerve fibre (ENF) density and morphology are used to study small fibre involvement in diabetic, HIV, chemotherapy induced and other neuropathies. ENF density and summed length of ENFs per epidermal surface area are reduced, and ENFs may appear more clustered within the epidermis in subjects with small fibre neuropathy than in healthy subjects. Therefore, it is important to understand the spatial structure of ENFs. In this paper, we compare the ENF patterns between healthy subjects and subjects suffering from mild diabetic neuropathy. The study is based on suction skin blister specimens from the right foot of 32 healthy subjects and eight subjects with mild diabetic neuropathy. We regard the ENF entry point (location where the trunks of a nerve enters the epidermis) and ENF end point (termination of the nerve fibres) patterns as realizations of spatial point processes, and develop tools that can be used in the analysis and modelling of ENF patterns. We use spatial summary statistics and shift plots and define a new tool, reactive territory, to study the spatial patterns and to compare the patterns of the two groups. We will also introduce a simple model for these data in order to understand the growth process of the nerve fibres. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A graphical model approach to systematically missing data in meta‐analysis of observational studies
Authors: Kovačić Jelena , Varnai Veda Marija
Published: June 2016

When studies in meta‐analysis include different sets of confounders, simple analyses can cause a bias (omitting confounders that are missing in certain studies) or precision loss (omitting studies with incomplete confounders, i.e. a complete‐case meta‐analysis). To overcome these types of issues, a previous study proposed modelling the high correlation between partially and fully adjusted regression coefficient estimates in a bivariate meta‐analysis. When multiple differently adjusted regression coefficient estimates are available, we propose exploiting such correlations in a graphical model. Compared with a previously suggested bivariate meta‐analysis method, such a graphical model approach is likely to reduce the number of parameters in complex missing data settings by omitting the direct relationships between some of the estimates. We propose a structure‐learning rule whose justification relies on the missingness pattern being monotone. This rule was tested using epidemiological data from a multi‐centre survey. In the analysis of risk factors for early retirement, the method showed a smaller difference from a complete data odds ratio and greater precision than a commonly used complete‐case meta‐analysis. Three real‐world applications with monotone missing patterns are provided, namely, the association between (1) the fibrinogen level and coronary heart disease, (2) the intima media thickness and vascular risk and (3) allergic asthma and depressive episodes. The proposed method allows for the inclusion of published summary data, which makes it particularly suitable for applications involving both microdata and summary data. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Developing Modified Graphene Oxide Based Sensor for Lead Ions Detection in Water
Authors: Wang Xiaozhou , Jia Baoping , Zhang Wei , Lin Bencai , Wang Qiuze , Ding Jianning
Published: June 2016

Blade coating method was employed to fabricate the pure graphene oxide sensors, whose sensitivity turned out to be about 10−9 M for detection of lead ions (Pb2+). To improve its ability to detect Pb2+ at much lower concentration, modification with 50–200 nm Au nanoparticles (AuNPs) was performed on graphene oxide based on the fact that Pb2+ could accelerate the leaching rate of AuNPs on the surface of graphene by S2O32− and 2‐mercaptoethanel (2‐ME), leading to the sensitivity improved over 2 order magnitude, as well as excellent selectivity toward lead ions over a wide range of other metal ions. The approach and findings presented in this paper could also be extended to the fabrication of other heavy metal ions sensors and the improvement of their performances.