bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Copper Electrolytic Cycle Reverse Current Control System
Authors: Liu De Jun , Zhang Lai Yong , Chen Guang Da , Duan Hui Da , Liu Cheng
Published: January 2014

The paper describes the main factors of influencing increase cropper electrolysis current density.The main circuit and the control circuit of cycle reverse rectification power for copper electrolysis are designed. The simulation and practical results show the cycle reverse electrolysis power based active disturbance rejection controller has high reliability and precision of steady current and anti-disturbance,the density of electrolysis current can be increased and anode passivation can be decreased ，the effect is better especially for high impurities of anode sheets. the energy-saving and lower costs and high quality and increase of output are achieved. this technology is practicable.
DeNOx Technology Selection and Optimal Design of SNCR System for a 300MWe CFB Boiler
Authors: Huang Wei Gang , Li Jing Ji , Yang Hai Rui
Published: January 2014

With the increasing pressure on NOx removal in China, a part of CFB boilers have to install the deNOx devices to meet the updated emission regulation. Aiming to the large-scale 300MWe CFB boilers, the existing SCR and SNCR technologies are compared and the SNCR technology using urea as reductant is recommended based on the technical, economic and safety concerns. The design of the SNCR system is also presented. By employing the CFD method, the different urea distributions inside the cyclone are illustrated and the layout of 10 nozzles for each cyclone is optimized to the outer side of cyclone inlet. The technological flow chart of the SNCR system is given to show the whole process of urea storage, transport and injection.
A Kind of Adjustable Electric Heating Pipe Power Electrode Preparation Equipment
Authors: Li Gang , Zhu X L
Published: January 2014

In order to solve a kind of electric heating pipe electrode production and power adjustable, designed a kind of adjustable power of electric heating pipe electrode preparation equipment.The equipment is mainly used to test technology, PLC control technology and coating technology.First, selected on the basis of the PLC,the mechanism design, design the hardware control circuit, finally a port of the PLC wiring design.The results show that compared with the traditional production compared to heat pipe machine, the device not only high production efficiency and quality index, but also can produce many kinds of products[1].
Research on Characteristics of Variable Pitch Offshore Wind Turbine
Authors: Lu Ling , Zhang Xiu Zhi
Published: January 2014

Wind turbine is complex multivariable nonlinear system with uncertainty and interference characteristics. For the wind turbine system, operation reliability, wind energy utilization efficiency and output power curves should be concerned. In this paper, the main characteristics of variable pitch wind turbine are analyzed in detail to obtain optimum wind energy utilization efficiency and power output.
Effect of High Speed Dry End Milling on Surface Roughness and Cutting Forces of Ti-6Al-4V ELI
Authors: Sharif Safian , Safari Habib , Izman Sudin , Kurniawan Denni
Published: January 2014

The surface quality generated when high speed dry end milling (HSDEM) Ti-6Al-4V-ELI titanium alloy with coated and uncoated carbide tools were investigated. Evaluation was conducted using TiAlN+TiN coated and uncoated cemented carbide tools under different high cutting speeds and feed rates conditions. Surface roughness and cutting forces were measured when using new tools. The milled surface quality and corresponding alteration were characterized through electron microscopy. Within the investigated conditions high quality surface finish was obtained on the machined surface. Increasing cutting speed from 200 to 300 m/min during the process improved the surface finished particularly under lower feed rates. In term of generated surface quality, uncoated H25 grade carbide tools out performed coated F40M grade specifically at the higher cutting conditions. The main damages observed after HSDEM on the surface for all machining conditions contain redeposited materials, feed marks, and tool edge marks. Under both tested feed rates the resultant cutting force decreased by increasing the cutting speeds and uncoated carbide tools provide the lower cutting forces compared to coated types.
The Impact of the Power Plant Unit Start-Up Scheme on the Pollution Load
Authors: Dwornicka Renata
Published: January 2014

The typical problem in design of experiments methodology is to avoid risk of obtaining The article presents problems related to optimization of start-up and shut-down of the power unit located in a coal-based electric plant. The optimization includes minimization of the start-up and shut-down duration while maximum allowed stresses in the main steam valve are simultaneously taken into consideration. Such approach leads to increasing of overall efficiency of the power unit and as a result to reducing of environmental burden with the same amount of energy obtained.
Modification of Zenner and Liu Criterion due to Non-Proportionality of Fatigue Load by Means of MCE Approach
Authors: Pejkowski Łukasz , Skibicki Dariusz
Published: January 2014

The results of experimental verification of Zenner and Lius criterion confirm its efficiency in the case of estimation of fatigue life for proportional loading. Due to application of general damage parameter, the criterion is useful in case of various types of proportional loading and for multiple materials. However, for non-proportional loadings, of high non-proportionality level, the error of estimation of fatigue lives often exceeds scatter band 3. The hereby work presents a proposal for Zenner and Lius criterion modification based upon introduction of loading non-proportionality measure with minimum circumscribed ellipse method (MCE).
IDO-Independent Suppression of T Cell Effector Function by IFN-γ–Licensed Human Mesenchymal Stromal Cells
Authors: Chinnadurai Raghavan , Copland Ian B. , Patel Seema R. , Galipeau Jacques
Published: January 2014

Human bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) inhibit proliferation of activated T cells, and IFN-γ plays an important role in this process. This IFN-γ–licensed veto property is IDO-dependent. To further decipher the mechanistic underpinnings of MSC veto function on T cells, we investigated the effect of MSCs and IFN-γ–licensed MSCs on T cell effector function as assayed by cytokine secretion of T cells. Although MSCs and IFN-γ–licensed MSCs inhibit T cell proliferation, only IFN-γ–licensed MSCs significantly inhibit Th1 cytokine (IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-2) production by T cells. Additionally, IFN-γ–licensed MSCs inhibit T cell degranulation as well as single, double, and triple cytokine–producing T cells. Although IFN-γ–licensed MSCs upregulate their IDO activity, we found that MSC IDO catalytic function is dispensable with regard to MSC-driven inhibition of T cell effector function. Novel flow cytometry based functional screening of MSC-expressed, IFN-γ–licensed inhibitory molecules identified B7H1 and B7DC/PD1 pathways as essential effectors in blocking T cell function. Small interfering RNA–mediated blocking of B7H1 and B7DC reverses the inhibitory potential of IFN-γ–licensed MSCs on T cell effector function. Mechanistic analysis revealed that clustering of MHC and coinhibitory molecules are indispensable for the inhibitory effect of IFN-γ MSCs. Although exogenous IL-2 reverses B7H1-Ig–mediated inhibition of T cell proliferation, it does not affect the veto function of IFN-γ MSCs on both T cell proliferation and effector function. Our results reveal a new immunosuppressive property of IFN-γ–licensed MSCs that inhibits T cell effector function independent of IDO but through the ligands for PD1.
Oncotype Dx Results in Multiple Primary Breast Cancers
Authors: Toole Michael J. , Kidwell Kelley M. , Van Poznak Catherine
Published: January 2014

Purpose

To determine whether multiple primary breast cancers have similar genetic profiles, specifically Oncotype Dx Recurrence Scores, and whether obtaining Oncotype Dx on each primary breast cancer affects chemotherapy recommendations.

Methods

A database of patients with hormone receptor-positive, lymph node-negative, breast cancer was created for those tumors that were sent for Oncotype Dx testing from the University of Michigan Health System from 1/24/2005 to 2/25/2013. Retrospective chart review abstracted details of tumor location, histopathology, distance between tumors, Oncotype Dx results, and chemotherapy recommendations.

Results

Six hundred and sixty-six patients for whom Oncotype Dx testing was sent were identified, with 22 patients having multiple breast tumor specimens sent. Of the 22 patients who had multiple samples sent for analysis, chemotherapy recommendations were changed in 6 of 22 patients (27%) based on significant differences in Oncotype Dx Recurrence Scores. Qualitatively, there seems to be a greater difference in genetic profile in tumors appearing simultaneously on different breasts when compared to multiple tumors on the same breast. There was no association between distance between tumors and difference in Oncotype Dx scores for tumors on the same breast.

Conclusions

Oncotype Dx testing on multiple primary breast cancers altered management in regards to chemotherapy recommendations and should be considered for multiple primary breast cancers.
Phosphanchalkogenide und ihre Metallkomplexe. II. Komplexe einiger Gold(I)-Halogenide mit Diphosphanmonochalkogeniden [1] / Phosphane Chalcogenides and their Metal Complexes. II. Gold(I) Halide Complexes of some Diphosphane Monochalcogenides
Authors: Taouss Christina , Jones Peter G.
Published: January 2014

We report the crystal structures of 19 gold(I) complexes with diphosphane monochalcogenide ligands, general formula (PP)EAuHal (PP = diphosphane, E = chalcogen, Hal = halogen). For PP = bis(diphenylphosphano)methane (dppm): 1, dppmOAuCl as its diisopropyl ether solvate; 2, dppmOAuI as its dichloromethane solvate; 3, dppmSAuCl as its dichloromethane hemisolvate; 4, dppmSAuI; 5, dppmSeAuBr as a 1:1 adduct with dppmSe2; 6, dppmSeAuI. Compound 3 is isotypic to the known structure of dppmSeAuCl. Most of the structures have an E-P…P-Au torsion angle close to zero, which, especially for the larger E atoms, facilitates a close intramolecular approach of E and Au. The packing of 1-3 involves hydrogen bonds from the methylene hydrogens. For PP = 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphano)ethane (dppe): 7, dppeOAuBr and 8, dppeOAuI, both as their hemihydrates; 9, dppeSAuBr; 10, dppeSAuI. All four compounds crystallise with two independent molecules of the gold complex, between which short Au…Au contacts are observed; the molecules of 7 and 8 are further linked by hydrogen bond systems […P=O…H-O-H…O=P…]. Compounds 7 and 8 form an isotypic series with their known chloride analogue, as do 9 and 10. For PP = 1,2- bis(diphenylphosphano)benzene (dppbz): 11, dppbzOAuCl; 12, dppbzOAuBr; 13, dppbzSAuBr; 14, dppbzSAuI, 16, dppbzSeAuBr and 17, dppbzSeAuI, all as their isotypic dichloromethane disolvates; 15, dppbzSeAuCl (isotypic to 13). The absolute E-P…P-Au torsion angles are all in the range 50 - 70°; short intramolecular E…Au contacts are observed. The packing of 11-17 shows few notable short contacts. For PP = cis-1,2-bis(diphenylphosphano)ethene (cisdppen): 18, cisdppenSAuCl; 19, cisdppenSAuBr. Both compounds crystallise with two independent molecules, and in both cases the molecules display considerable differences in configuration. The packing of 18 involves short H…Cl and that of 19 short H…S contacts. For PP = 1,8-bis(diphenylphosphano)naphthalene (dppn), an inversion-symmetric gold(III) complex (dppnSeAu)2Cl2 20, with a central four-membered ring Au2Se2, was obtained instead of the expected isomeric gold(I) derivative by formal insertion of gold into a P-Se bond; it crystallised as a deuterochloroform hexasolvate.
La pervivencia de las reglas éticas tradicionales en el contraste de información
Authors:   Universidad de Sevilla (España), Romero Domínguez Lorena R.
Published: January 2014

Pese a la proliferación de fuentes procedentes del entorno web para la redacción de noticias, las rutinas de producción periodísticas siguen obligando al profesional de la información a certificar su veracidad como se ha realizado tradicionalmente. Aunque hay discrepancias entre los teóricos consultados sobre la influencia de Internet en las labores de búsqueda de información y la exactitud de la misma, los periodistas encuestados para este estudio coinciden en subrayar que sus estándares de actuación no han cambiado con respecto a la fiabilidad de sus informaciones, independientemente de que se obtengan de manera tradicional (cara a cara, vía telefónica, etcétera) o en Internet.
Seasonal cycles of water‐soluble organic nitrogen aerosols in a deciduous broadleaf forest in northern Japan
Authors: Miyazaki Yuzo , Fu PingQing , Ono Kaori , Tachibana Eri , Kawamura Kimitaka
Published: January 2014

The seasonal variations in aerosol water‐soluble organic nitrogen (WSON) concentrations measured in a deciduous forest canopy over an approximately 30 month period were investigated for possible sources in the forest. The WSON concentrations (average 157 ± 127 ng N m−3) and WSON/water‐soluble total nitrogen mass fractions (average 20 ± 11%) in the total suspended particulate matter exhibited a clear seasonal cycle with maxima in early summer. The WSON mass was found to reside mostly in the fine‐mode size range (Dp < 1.9 µm) during the summer months. WSON was positively correlated with oxidation products of α‐pinene and isoprene with similar size distributions, suggesting that secondary formation from biogenic hydrocarbon precursors is a plausible source for WSON in summer. In contrast, the majority of WSON in autumn was associated with coarse fraction (Dp > 1.9 µm), which was similar to the size distributions of sugar compounds, indicating that the major WSON sources in autumn are associated with primary biological emissions. The vertical differences in WSON concentrations suggest that the water‐soluble organic aerosol is enriched with nitrogen below the canopy level relative to the forest floor. The WSON concentration increased with enhanced hydrogen ion concentrations in aerosol in the early summer, indicating that aerosol acidity associated with anthropogenic sources outside the forest likely plays an important role in the formation of WSON in that season. The study suggests that multiple sources of WSON within the forest canopy may dominate over others in specific seasons, providing insights into WSON formation processes in forest environments.
Management of a large atrial septal occluder embolized to the left ventricular outflow tract without the use of cardiac surgery
Authors: Loh Joshua P. , Satler Lowell F. , Slack Michael C.
Published: January 2014

Transcatheter closure of secundum‐type atrial septal defects (ASDs) using the AMPLATZER™ Septal Occluder (ASO) has been in use for more than a decade since its US Food and Drug Administration approval in 2001. Device embolization remains an uncommon complication, which can sometimes occur after the initial deployment. Previous reports of ASO devices embolized to the left ventricle have primarily been managed by open‐heart surgical retrieval. We present a case of an ASO device embolized to the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) 18 hr after initial implantation, which was successfully retrieved percutaneously, followed by successful closure of the ASD using a larger device. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Simulation of Internal Recycling of Adsorption Heat with Phase Change Materials
Authors: Horstmeier Jan F. , Heib Stefanie , Agar David W.
Published: January 2014

Latentwärmespeicher ermöglichen die latente Speicherung großer Wärmemengen durch einen Phasenwechsel bei konstantem Temperaturniveau. Die beim Einsatz von Amin‐funktionalisierten Adsorbentien zur CO2‐Adsorption hohe freiwerdende Adsorptionswärme, die zu einer Minderung der Gleichgewichtskapazität führt, kann so gespeichert und bei der Desorption in einer Vakuumwechseladsorption wieder zur Regeneration des Adsorbens zur Verfügung gestellt werden. Die Integration verringert Temperaturschwankungen und macht den Prozess effizienter, wobei durch unterschiedliche Lokalisierung der Phasenwechselmaterialien im Adsorber die Effizienzsteigerung beeinflusst werden kann.
Elucidating the genetic basis for Escherichia coli defense against silver toxicity using mutant arrays
Authors: Xiu Zongming , Liu Yuanyuan , Mathieu Jacques , Wang Jing , Zhu Dongqiang , Alvarez Pedro J.J.
Published: January 2014

Bacterial adaptation and defense mechanisms against silver are poorly understood at the genetic level. A library of Escherichia coli gene-deletion mutants was used to show that clones lacking sodB (coding for oxidative stress protection), lon (protein damage repair), or cusR (metal efflux pump) are quite sensitive to silver (with 7.3 ± 9.1%, 5.3 ± 1.8%, and 0.4 ± 0.1% of cells surviving, respectively, compared with 90.1 ± 5.4% survival for wild-type E. coli, after 6-h exposure to 8 mg/L AgNO3), suggesting the importance of the coded functions as defense mechanisms. Mutants lacking pgaB or wcaD, which code for production of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), also showed significant (p < 0.05) sensitivity to silver exposure (23.4 ± 16.2% and 23.1 ± 32.6% survival, respectively). Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) with scanning TEM/energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis showed accumulation of silver nanoparticles within EPS, suggesting that EPS serve as a protective barrier that also immobilizes dissolved silver as silver nanoparticles. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:993–997. © 2014 SETAC
Leveraging Family History in Population‐Based Case‐Control Association Studies
Authors: Ghosh Arpita , Hartge Patricia , Kraft Peter , Joshi Amit D. , Ziegler Regina G. , Barrdahl Myrto , Chanock Stephen J. , Wacholder Sholom , Chatterjee Nilanjan
Published: January 2014

Population‐based epidemiologic studies often gather information from study participants on disease history among their family members. Although investigators widely recognize that family history will be associated with genotypes of the participants at disease susceptibility loci, they commonly ignore such information in primary genetic association analyses. In this report, we propose a simple approach to association testing by incorporating family history information as a “phenotype.” We account for the expected attenuation in strength of association of the genotype of study participants with family history under Mendelian transmission. The proposed analysis can be performed using standard statistical software adopting either a meta‐ or pooled‐analysis framework. Re‐analysis of a total of 115 known susceptibility single‐nucleotide polymorphisms, discovered through genome‐wide association studies for several disease traits, indicates that incorporation of family history information can increase efficiency by as much as 40%. Efficiency gain depends on the type of design used for conducting the primary study, extent of family history, and accuracy and completeness of reporting.
Characterization of the potential energy surfaces of two small but challenging noncovalent dimers: (P2)2 and (PCCP)2
Authors: Van Dornshuld Eric , Tschumper Gregory S.
Published: January 2014

This work characterizes eight stationary points of the P2 dimer and six stationary points of the PCCP dimer, including a newly identified minimum on both potential energy surfaces. Full geometry optimizations and corresponding harmonic vibrational frequencies were computed with the second‐order Møller–Plesset (MP2) electronic structure method and six different basis sets: aug‐cc‐pVXZ, aug‐cc‐pV(X+d)Z, and aug‐cc‐pCVXZ where X = T, Q. A new L‐shaped structure with C2 symmetry is the only minimum for the P2 dimer at the MP2 level of theory with these basis sets. The previously reported parallel‐slipped structure with C2h symmetry and a newly identified cross configuration with D2 symmetry are the only minima for the PCCP dimer. Single point energies were also computed using the canonical MP2 and CCSD(T) methods as well as the explicitly correlated MP2‐F12 and CCSD(T)‐F12 methods and the aug‐cc‐pVXZ (X = D, T, Q, 5) basis sets. The energetics obtained with the explicitly correlated methods were very similar to the canonical results for the larger basis sets. Extrapolations were performed to estimate the complete basis set (CBS) limit MP2 and CCSD(T) binding energies. MP2 and MP2‐F12 significantly overbind the P2 and PCCP dimers relative to the CCSD(T) and CCSD(T)‐F12 binding energies by as much as 1.5 kcal mol−1 for the former and 5.0 kcal mol−1 for the latter at the CBS limit. The dominant attractive component of the interaction energy for each dimer configuration was dispersion according to several symmetry‐adapted perturbation theory analyses. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Population pharmacokinetics of dabrafenib, a BRAF inhibitor: Effect of dose, time, covariates, and relationship with its metabolites
Authors: Ouellet Daniele , Gibiansky Ekaterina , Leonowens Cathrine , O'Hagan Anne , Haney Patricia , Switzky Julie , Goodman Vicki L.
Published: January 2014

Dabrafenib is a BRAF kinase inhibitor indicated for the treatment of BRAF V600E mutation‐positive melanoma. The population pharmacokinetics of dabrafenib, including changes over time and relevant covariates, were characterized based on results from four clinical studies using a nonlinear mixed effects model with a full covariate approach. Steady‐state exposures of dabrafenib metabolites (hydroxy‐, carboxy‐, and desmethyl‐dabrafenib) were characterized separately. The pharmacokinetics of dabrafenib were adequately described by non‐inducible and inducible apparent clearance that increased with dose and time. Total steady‐state clearance (CL/F) at 150 mg BID dose was 34.3 L/h. Based on the induction half‐life (67 hours), steady state should be achieved within 14 days of dosing. Capsule shell was the most significant covariate (55%) while sex and weight had only a small impact on exposure (<20%). The AUC ratio (hypromellose:gelatin capsule) is predicted to be 1.80 and 1.42 following single and repeat dosing, respectively. Age, renal (mild and moderate), and hepatic (mild) impairment were not significant covariates. Steady‐state pre‐dose concentration (%CV) of dabrafenib and of hydroxy‐, carboxy‐, and desmethyl‐dabrafenib at 150 mg BID were 46.6 ng/mL (83.5%), 69.3 ng/mL (64.1%), 3608 ng/mL (14.7%), and 291 ng/mL (17.2%), respectively. Capsule shell, concomitant medications, older age, and weight were predictors of metabolite exposure.
Anthocyanin profiles and biological properties of caneberry (Rubus spp.) press residues
Authors: Tumbas Šaponjac Vesna , Gironés‐Vilaplana Amadeo , Djilas Sonja , Mena Pedro , Ćetković Gordana , Moreno Diego A , Čanadanović‐Brunet Jasna , Vulić Jelena , Stajčić Slađana , Krunić Milica
Published: January 2014

BACKGROUND

The global interest in natural food colours shows increasing attention towards new product development to replace synthetic colourants, because of the strengthening of legislative rules and consumer awareness of synthetic additives and chemicals in food. This study was designed to evaluate anthocyanin content and biological activities of press residues from four caneberries: two raspberry (Rubus idaeus, cv. ‘Meeker’ (RM) and ‘Willamette’ (RW)) and two blackberry (Rubus fruticosus, cv. ‘Thornfree’ (BT) and ‘Čačanska bestrna’ (BC)) cultivars.

RESULTS

Analysis by high‐performance liquid chromatography–diode array detection–electrospray ionization–tandem mass spectrometry identified cyanidin glycosides in all press residues, cyanidin 3‐glucoside being prevalent in BC (1360.6 mg kg−1) and BT (1397.7 mg kg−1), and cyanidin 3‐sophoroside in RM (349.2 mg kg−1) and RW (581.0 mg kg−1). Antioxidant capacity (AC), evaluated by ABTS (2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethyl benzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) assay, reducing power (RP) and α‐glucosidase inhibitory potential (α‐GIP) was higher in blackberry press residues. Total anthocyanin content was in good correlation with AC (r = 0.953; P < 0.05), RP (r = 0.993, P < 0.01) and α‐GIP (r = 0.852, P < 0.15).

CONCLUSION

This study has revealed the potential for valorization of juice production byproducts for further industrial use as a rich source of bioactive compounds and natural colourants (mainly anthocyanins). Also, they can provide health‐promoting effects beyond their general organoleptic acceptance in food product development. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
The oral bioavailability of curcumin from micronized powder and liquid micelles is significantly increased in healthy humans and differs between sexes
Authors: Schiborr Christina , Kocher Alexa , Behnam Dariush , Jandasek Josef , Toelstede Simone , Frank Jan
Published: January 2014

Scope

Curcumin revealed various health‐beneficial properties in numerous studies. However its bioavailability is low due to its limited intestinal uptake and rapid metabolism. The aim of our project was to develop novel curcumin formulations with improved oral bioavailability and to study their safety as well as potential sex‐differences.

Methods and results

In this crossover study, healthy subjects (13 women, 10 men) took, in random order, a single oral dose of 500 mg curcuminoids as native powder, micronized powder, or liquid micelles. Blood and urine samples were collected for 24 h and total curcuminoids and safety parameters were quantified. Based on the area under the plasma concentration–time curve (AUC), the micronized curcumin was 14‐, 5‐, and 9‐fold and micellar curcumin 277‐, 114‐, and 185‐fold better bioavailable than native curcumin in women, men, and all subjects, respectively. Thus, women absorbed curcumin more efficiently than men. All safety parameters remained within the reference ranges following the consumption of all formulations.

Conclusion

Both, the micronized powder and in particular the liquid micellar formulation of curcumin significantly improved its oral bioavailability without altering safety parameters and may thus be ideally suited to deliver curcumin in human intervention trials. The observed sex differences in curcumin absorption warrant further investigation.
Development of a gel spinning process for high‐strength poly(ethylene oxide) fibers
Authors: Wyatt Tom P. , Chien An‐Ting , Kumar Satish , Yao Donggang
Published: January 2014

This article describes a new gel‐spinning process for making high‐strength poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) fibers. The PEO gel‐spinning process was enabled through an oligomer/polymer blend in place of conventional organic solvents, and the gelation and solvent‐like properties were investigated. A 92/8 wt% poly(ethylene glycol)/PEO gel exhibited a melting temperature around 45°C and was highly stretchable at room temperature. Some salient features of a gel‐spun PEO fiber with a draw ratio of 60 are tensile strength at break = 0.66 ± 0.04 GPa, Young's modulus = 4.3 ± 0.1 GPa, and a toughness corresponding to 117 MJ/m3. These numbers are significantly higher than those previously reported. Wide‐angle x‐ray diffraction of the high‐strength fibers showed good molecular orientation along the fiber direction. The results also demonstrate the potential of further improvement of mechanical properties. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 54:2839–2847, 2014. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Validating computer simulations of enantioselective catalysis; reproducing the large steric and entropic contributions in Candida Antarctica lipase B
Authors: Schopf Patrick , Warshel Arieh
Published: January 2014

The prospect for computer‐aided refinement of stereoselective enzymes is further validated by simulating the ester hydrolysis by the wild‐type and mutants of CalB, focusing on the challenge of dealing with strong steric effects and entropic contributions. This was done using the empirical valence bond (EVB) method in a quantitative screening of the enantioselectivity, considering bothkcatandkcat/KMof the R and S stereoisomers. Although the simulations require very extensive sampling for convergence they give encouraging results and major validation, indicating that our approach offers a powerful tool for computer‐aided design of enantioselective enzymes. This is particularly true in cases with large changes in steric effects where alternative approaches may have difficulties in capturing the interplay between steric clashes with the reacting substrate and protein flexibility. Proteins 2014; 82:1387–1399. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The basic helix–loop–helix region of the transcriptional repressor hairy and enhancer of split 1 is preorganized to bind DNA
Authors: Popovic Matija , Wienk Hans , Coglievina Maristella , Boelens Rolf , Pongor Sándor , Pintar Alessandro
Published: January 2014

Hairy and enhancer of split 1, one of the main downstream effectors in Notch signaling, is a transcriptional repressor of the basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH) family. Using nuclear magnetic resonance methods, we have determined the structure and dynamics of a recombinant protein, H1H, which includes an N‐terminal segment, b1, containing functionally important phosphorylation sites, the basic region b2, required for binding to DNA, and the HLH domain. We show that a proline residue in the sequence divides the protein in two parts, a flexible and disordered N‐terminal region including b1 and a structured, mainly helical region comprising b2 and the HLH domain. Binding of H1H to a double strand DNA oligonucleotide was monitored through the chemical shift perturbation of backbone amide resonances, and showed that the interaction surface involves not only the b2 segment but also several residues in the b1 and HLH regions. Proteins 2014; 82:537–545. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pore Structure of USY Zeolites in Dependence on Steaming Condition
Authors: Lutz Wolfgang , Shutilov Roman A. , Gavrilov Vladimir Yu.
Published: January 2014

Thermo‐chemical dealumination of zeolite Y is accompanied by formation of different mesopore types. Closed mesopores in the nuclei and open pores at the crystal surface occur due to decomposition of its corresponding frameworks which are unstable in steam. Third type of lattice mesopores is formed inside the microporous bulk after removal of aluminum atoms if the remaining hydroxyl nests dehydroxylate. This process leads to a rearrangement of the zeolite framework. In contrast to the observed phenomenon, the defects are healed by migrating of ortho‐silicic acid (H4SiO4) from the surface to the hydroxyl nests under conditions of suitable steaming. Since mesopores in USY zeolites (ultra stable Y) reduce their catalytic activity and the sorption capacity, they could be minimized by a proper treatment.
miR-429 inhibits cells growth and invasion and regulates EMT-related marker genes by targeting Onecut2 in colorectal carcinoma
Authors: Sun Yingnan , Shen Shourong , Liu Xiaoping , Tang Hailin , Wang Zeyou , Yu Zhibin , Li Xiayu , Wu Minghua
Published: January 2014

The 5-year survival rate for colorectal cancer is approximately 55 % because of its invasion and metastasis. The epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is one of the well-defined processes during the invasion and distant metastasis of primary epithelial tumors. miR-429, a member of the miR-200 family of microRNAs, was previously shown to inhibit the expression of transcriptional repressors ZEB1/delta EF1 and SIP1/ZEB2, and regulate EMT. In this study, we showed that miR-429 was significantly downregulated in colorectal carcinoma (CRC) tissues and cell lines. We found that miR-429 inhibited the proliferation and growth of CRC cells in vitro and in vivo, suggesting that miR-429 could play a role in CRC tumorigenesis. We also showed that downregulation of miR-429 may contribute to carcinogenesis and the initiation of EMT of CRC by targeting Onecut2. Further researches indicated that miR-429 inhibited the cells migration and invasion and reversed TGF-β-induced EMT changes in SW620 and SW480 cells. miR-429 could reverse the change of EMT-related markers genes induced by TGF-β1, such as E-cadherin, CTNNA1, CTNNB1, TFN, CD44, MMP2, Vimentin, Slug, Snail, and ZEB2 by targeting Onecut2. Taken together, our data showed that transcript factor Onecut2 is involved in the EMT, migration and invasion of CRC cells; miR-429 inhibits the initiation of EMT and regulated expression of EMT-related markers by targeting Onecut2; and miR-429 or Onecut2 is the important therapy target for CRC.
Exposure to life‐threatening stressful situations and the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight
Authors: Wainstock Tamar , Anteby Eyal Y. , Glasser Saralee , Lerner‐Geva Liat , Shoham‐Vardi Ilana
Published: January 2014

Objective

To evaluate the association between exposure to life‐threatening rocket attacks and the risks of preterm birth (PTB) and low birth weight (LBW).

Methods

The present retrospective cohort study compared the outcomes of 1851 births by women exposed to rocket attacks and 2979 births by unexposed women. The timing, frequency, and intensity of exposure were calculated for each trimester and for the entire pregnancy period. Demographic and medical data were abstracted from the patients’ records.

Results

The rates of PTB and LBW were higher among exposed than unexposed women (PTB: 9.1% versus 6.8%, P = 0.004; LBW: 7.6% versus 5.8%, P = 0.02). The rate of infants who were small for gestational age did not differ between the groups. After controlling for potential confounders, the risks for PTB and LBW remained significantly higher in the exposed group (PTB: adjusted odds ratio 1.3 [95% confidence interval, 1.1–1.7]; LBW: adjusted odds ratio 1.3 [95% confidence interval, 1.03–1.7]). There was no linear association between the intensity of exposure and the risk of PTB or LBW.

Conclusion

Maternal exposure to intermittent but repeated life‐threatening rocket attacks for a prolonged period might be associated with increased risks of PTB and LBW.
Response and Prediction of Improvement in Gait Speed From Functional Electrical Stimulation in Persons With Poststroke Drop Foot
Authors: O'Dell Michael W. , Dunning Kari , Kluding Patricia , Wu Samuel S. , Feld Jody , Ginosian Jivan , McBride Keith
Published: January 2014

Objective

To describe changes in and predictors of comfortable gait speed (GS‐C) after using a foot‐drop stimulator (FDS; Bioness L300; Bioness Inc, Valencia, CA) for 42 weeks in persons who had sustained a stroke.

Design

Secondary analysis of prospective assessments.

Setting

Multicenter clinical trial.

Participants

A total of 99 subjects who had sustained a stroke ≥3 months earlier and who had GS‐C ≤0.8 m/s and drop foot with a mean age of 60.7 years and a poststroke time of 4.8 years.

Methods

GS‐C was assessed at baseline and at 30 weeks with and without use of an FDS (therapeutic effect) and at 6, 12, 30, 36, and 42 weeks with use of an FDS (total effect). After subjects participated in 8 physical therapy sessions, an FDS was used for ambulation over the course of 42 weeks.

Main Outcome Measurements

Changes in mean GS‐C over time, FDS “responder” status defined as either ≥0.1 m/s gain in GS‐C (the minimal clinically important difference [MCID]) or advancing by one Perry Ambulation Category (PAC), and the incidence and nature of adverse events (AEs).

Results

A total of 74 (75%) and 69 (70%) of 99 subjects completed assessments at 30 weeks and 42 weeks, respectively. Baseline GS‐C was 0.42 m/s without use of an FDS and 0.49 m/s with use of an FDS. GS‐C improved to 0.54 m/s at 30 weeks without use of an FDS (effect size = 0.75) and 0.54, 0.55, 0.58, 0.60, and 0.61 m/s at 6, 12, 30, 36, and 42 weeks with use of an FDS, respectively (effect size 0.84 at 42 weeks). Half of the subjects achieved a maximum GS‐C by 12 weeks. Approximately 18% were PAC responders and 29% were MCID responders for 30‐week therapeutic effect, and 55% were PAC responders and 67% were MCID responders for 42‐week total effect. After logistic regression, the following factors emerged as the strongest predictors of FDS responders: younger age, faster baseline GS‐C and Timed Up and Go, and balance. At 42 weeks, 60% reported a device‐related AE; 92% were mild and 96% were anticipated.

Conclusions

When an FDS was used, GS‐C improved progressively over 42 weeks, with ≥50% of patients achieving a clinically meaningful 42‐week total effect and 50% achieving a maximum GS‐C by 12 weeks. Younger patients with greater mobility levels may benefit most from use of an FDS. AEs were frequent, mild, and reversible.
The Use of Ivermectin to Kill Ixodes Scapularis Ticks Feeding on Humans
Authors: Sheele Johnathan M. , Ford Lucie R. , Tse Adele , Chidester Benjamin , Byers Peter A. , Sonenshine Daniel E.
Published: January 2014

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine whether 400 µg/kg oral ivermectin is able to kill Ixodes scapularis nymphs and adult female ticks feeding on humans.

Methods

Ten study subjects each wore 2 ostomy bags, the one containing 24 I scapularis nymphs, and the other containing 24 I scapularis adult females. Twenty-four hours after the ostomy bags were attached, study subjects received either 400 µg/kg ivermectin or placebo. Thirty hours after the ivermectin or placebo was consumed, the ticks were removed, and mortality determined in a double-blinded manner.

Results

Eleven percent of the I scapularis nymphs attached in the ivermectin group compared with 17% in the placebo. Mortality for the I scapularis nymphs that attached at the time of removal was 55% in the ivermectin group and 47% in the placebo group. Mortality for the I scapularis nymphs 5 days after removal was 92% in the ivermectin group and 88% for the placebo. Three percent of the I scapularis adults attached in the ivermectin group compared with 9% in the placebo group. Mortality for I scapularis adults was 0% on day 3 and 33% on day 8 for both the ivermectin and placebo groups. There were statistically insignificant differences in the mortality rates between I scapularis nymphs and adults exposed to ivermectin or placebo.

Conclusions

There were a high number of ticks that died in both groups but the data do not support our hypothesis that ivermectin can kill I scapularis. The study was not designed to determine whether it could prevent the transmission of tick-borne illness.
THE ARCHAEOBOTANY OF NEOLITHIC AND BRONZE AGE CRETE: SYNTHESIS AND PROSPECTS
Authors: Livarda Alexandra , Kotzamani Georgia
Published: January 2014

This paper explores the full potential of archaeobotanical research in the investigation of issues such as agricultural practices and resource management and mobilisation in shaping the social dynamics of Neolithic and Bronze Age Crete, through a synthesis for the first time of all available archaeobotanical information to date. To this body of data new information is added from six sites: Kephala Petras, Pryniatikos Pyrgos, Aghia Fotia, Knossos Little Palace North, Sissi and Zominthos. A comprehensive methodology is devised using three units of analysis to allow an in-depth study, firstly of the quality of the available dataset and secondly of its content. A total of 80 archaeobotanical records, compiled in one database, are examined in the light of the methods employed for their sampling, recovery and processing. The reliability of the current dataset is assessed, highlighting shortcomings; methodological issues are addressed to improve its quality. These records are then analysed according to their temporal, spatial and contextual distribution across the island. A synthesis of the full resource base, including cereals, legumes, fruits, nuts, condiments and wild species, is conducted, providing a contextualised picture of their availability and use, and identifying lacunae and interpretational potential. On these bases a research agenda is set and future research priorities and new approaches are suggested that place archaeobotany in the core of current archaeological discourse on social models, practices and meanings for prehistoric Crete.
Buddy Esquire and the early hip hop flyer
Authors: Lalonde Amanda
Published: January 2014

Between 1978 and 1984 Buddy Esquire designed over 300 hip hop flyers. His career coincided with the first flourishing of the Bronx scene, when hip hop shifted from a community-based event to a full-blown commercial phenomenon. This paper analyses Buddy Esquire's flyer design style, supported by a discussion with the flyer artist. The analysis demonstrates that Esquire's ‘neo-deco’ style communicates the aspiration of live hip hop to classiness by suppressing overt graffiti elements, by alluding to the nightclub culture of disco and by using the Art Deco stylings of the Jazz Age as a signifier of sophistication. The paper then moves beyond an interpretation of the flyers, searching for reflections of Buddy Esquire's aesthetic in early hip hop culture. Finally, it proposes that Buddy Esquire's flyers challenge assumptions in current hip hop scholarship regarding early hip hop's aesthetic relationship to the past (particularly the early 20th century) and its self-documenting impulse.
Hölder differentiability of self-conformal devil's staircases
Authors: TROSCHEIT SASCHA
Published: January 2014

In this paper we consider the probability distribution function of a Gibbs measure supported on a self-conformal set given by an iterated function system (devil's staircase) applied to a compact subset of ${\mathbb R}$. We use thermodynamic multifractal formalism to calculate the Hausdorff dimension of the sets Sα0, Sα∞ and Sα, the set of points at which this function has, respectively, Hölder derivative 0, ∞ or no derivative in the general sense. This extends recent work by Darst, Dekking, Falconer, Kesseböhmer and Stratmann, and Yao, Zhang and Li by considering arbitrary such Gibbs measures given by a potential function independent of the geometric potential.
Management of arrhythmias in patients with a tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Decker Jamie A. , Kim Jeffrey J.
Published: January 2014

Although arrhythmias are commonly found in patients with all different types of congenital heart disease, perhaps no patient is at higher risk of late development of arrhythmias that may result in sudden death than in the patient following tetralogy of Fallot repair. Despite major improvement in the surgical repair of this disease, a significant percentage of these patients continue to remain at risk for the late development of arrhythmias, and a small percentage will develop life-threatening arrhythmias and sudden death. Which patients remain at highest risk is still not clearly delineated. Diligent arrhythmia surveillance and aggressive treatment strategies are necessary to minimise this risk. This article highlights important strategies to manage arrhythmia development and prevention in this patient population.
Metabolite transfer with the fermentation product 2,3-butanediol enhances virulence by Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Venkataraman Arvind , Rosenbaum Miriam A , Werner Jeffrey J , Winans Stephen C , Angenent Largus T
Published: January 2014

The respiratory tract of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients harbor persistent microbial communities (CF airway microbiome) with Pseudomonas aeruginosa emerging as a dominant pathogen. Within a polymicrobial infection, interactions between co-habitant microbes can be important for pathogenesis, but even when considered, these interactions are not well understood. Here, we show with in vitro experiments that, compared with glucose, common fermentation products from co-habitant bacteria significantly increase virulence factor production, antimicrobial activity and biofilm formation of P. aeruginosa. The maximum stimulating effect was produced with the fermentation product 2,3-butanediol, which is a substrate for P. aeruginosa, resulting in a metabolic relationship between fermenters and this pathogen. The global transcription regulator LasI LasR, which controls quorum sensing, was upregulated threefold with 2,3-butanediol, resulting in higher phenazine and exotoxin concentrations and improved biofilm formation. This indicates that the success of P. aeruginosa in CF airway microbiomes could be governed by the location within the food web with fermenting bacteria. Our findings suggest that interbacterial metabolite transfer in polymicrobial infections stimulates virulence of P. aeruginosa and could have a considerable impact on disease progression.
The antimalarial drug quinine interferes with serotonin biosynthesis and action
Authors: Islahudin Farida , Tindall Sarah M. , Mellor Ian R. , Swift Karen , Christensen Hans E. M. , Fone Kevin C. F. , Pleass Richard J. , Ting Kang-Nee , Avery Simon V.
Published: January 2014

The major antimalarial drug quinine perturbs uptake of the essential amino acid tryptophan and patients with low plasma tryptophan are predisposed to adverse quinine reactions; symptoms of which are similar to indications of tryptophan depletion. As tryptophan is a precursor of the neurotransmitter serotonin (5-HT), here we test the hypothesis that quinine disrupts serotonin function. Quinine inhibited serotonin-induced proliferation of yeast as well as human (SHSY5Y) cells. One possible cause of this effect is through inhibition of 5-HT receptor activation by quinine, as we observed here. Furthermore, cells exhibited marked decreases in serotonin production during incubation with quinine. By assaying activity and kinetics of the rate-limiting enzyme for serotonin biosynthesis, tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH2), we showed that quinine competitively inhibits TPH2 in the presence of the substrate tryptophan. The study shows that quinine disrupts both serotonin biosynthesis and function, giving important new insight to the action of quinine on mammalian cells.
Pyrene based selective–ratiometric fluorescent sensing of zinc and pyrophosphate ions
Authors: Sivaraman Gandhi , Anand Thangaraj , Chellappa Duraisamy
Published: January 2014

A simple pyrene-based receptor has been synthesized. It shows a colorimetric and ratiometric fluorescent detection of zinc in aqueous solution.
A novel electrochemical immunosensor based on dual signal amplification of gold nanoparticles and telomerase extension reaction
Authors: Li Xiao-Yan , Yi Zi , Tang Hao , Chu Xia , Yu Ru-Qin
Published: January 2014

Highly sensitive electrochemical immune analysis was achieved based on dual signal amplification of AuNPs and telomerase extension reaction.
Nano-sized heterometallic macrocycles based on 4-pyridinylboron-capped iron(ii) clathrochelates: syntheses, structures and properties
Authors: Zhang Ying-Ying , Lin Yue-Jian , Jin Guo-Xin
Published: January 2014

A series of nano-scaled Ir–Fe heterometallic rectangles were prepared from 4-pyridinylboron-capped iron(ii) clathrochelates and bis(amidine) ligands. The cavity size could be controlled easily by the length of the organic ligand.
Cooperativity in beryllium bonds
Authors: Alkorta Ibon , Elguero José , Yáñez Manuel , Mó Otilia
Published: January 2014

Positive cooperativity is found in beryllium bonded complexes similar to that described for hydrogen bonded systems.
Preparation of the CuCr2O4 spinel nanoparticles catalyst for selective oxidation of toluene to benzaldehyde
Authors: Acharyya Shankha Shubhra , Ghosh Shilpi , Tiwari Ritesh , Sarkar Bipul , Singha Rajib Kumar , Pendem Chandrashekar , Sasaki Takehiko , Bal Rajaram
Published: January 2014

CuCr2O4 spinel nanoparticles with size between 30-60 nm were prepared by a hydrothermal synthesis method in the presence of a surfactant, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide.
Competitive oxygen-18 kinetic isotope effects expose O–O bond formation in water oxidation catalysis by monomeric and dimeric ruthenium complexes
Authors: Angeles-Boza Alfredo M. , Ertem Mehmed Z. , Sarma Rupam , Ibañez Christian H. , Maji Somnath , Llobet Antoni , Cramer Christopher J. , Roth Justine P.
Published: January 2014

Competitive 18O KIEs on water oxidation catalysis provide a probe of transition states for O–O bond formation.