bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Powder Injection Molding
Authors: Piotter Volker
Published: July 2012

The powder injection molding (PIM) process offers a fabrication technology for making parts by metal powder injection molding (MIM) and/or ceramic powder injection molding (CIM). It consists of four main steps: mixing of feedstock, shaping by injection molding, debinding, and sintering.

PIM offers considerable economic efficiency in large‐scale manufacturing and allows the production of complex shaped devices with usually no postprocessing. A further attraction is the wide range of materials that can be utilized, for example, different kinds of steels (such as 316L or 17‐4PH), copper, titanium, refractory metals, hard metals, oxide and nitride ceramics, and so on.

Typical PIM products reveal densities of 95–99% of the theoretical values, maximum part weights of 1 kg (may be higher in certain cases), and wall thicknesses up to more than 20 mm.

Development of the so‐called MicroPIM process can help large‐scale manufacture of metal and ceramic microcomponents. Presently, the smallest dimensions achievable are less than20 μm of part thickness or minimum structural details of less than 10 μm. Theoretical densities of up to 99% for ceramics have been achieved, while the nominal sizes of the final parts have reached tolerance levels of ±0.1–0.5%.

Current investigations deal with the development of simulation programs taking into account specific features of multimaterial systems as well as the particular effects that occur when processing highly powder filled fluidics.

For the reduction of mounting costs and production of highly integrated devices, two‐component injection molding (2 C‐PIM) is under advanced development. By the adjustment of the feedstock and sintering parameters, immovable or movable bonds can be generated.
Processing: Electric Fields for Fiber Orientation; Electrospinning
Authors: Pliszka Damian , Ramakrishna Seeram
Published: July 2012

Control of the electrospinning process appears to be one of the most challenging task in the manufacturing of nanofibrous structures. At the same time, simplicity and versatility of the electrospinning makes it one of the most popular nanotechnology method for production of one‐dimensional nanostructures. In this work, we present several approaches to control this “uncontrollable” process. We are presenting an application‐oriented approach showing how to obtain specific nanofiber arrangement.
Self‐Healing Materials
Authors: Keller Michael W.
Published: July 2012

This article discusses the current developments and advances for the incorporation of a damage repair mechanism in composite materials. There are several approaches for imparting this functionality, but each approach can be described as belonging to one of two broad families, an active‐phase mechanism or an active‐matrix mechanism. Active‐phase mechanisms incorporate another phase into the composite material, besides reinforcement and matrix, to accomplish damage repair. Active‐matrix self‐healing materials seek to incorporate a fundamental chemical phenomenon, such as reversible bonds, that can perform damage repair. Each of these approaches is described in detail including both the manufacturing or synthesis techniques and the material characterization approaches that have been adopted to assess self‐healing capability. A brief summary and outlook is also provided that describes the current challenges and maturity of the field.
Sheet Molding Compounds
Authors: Orgéas Laurent , Dumont Pierre J. J.
Published: July 2012

Sheet molding compounds (SMC) are fiber‐reinforced thermosetting semifinished products. They are produced in thin uncured and thickened sheets that can be handled easily before their forming process. To a larger extent, SMC is a generic term that designates such types of compounds together with the process to convert them into large composite parts, which mainly display shell‐like geometry. This process is usually compression molding. SMC are widely used in a large diversity of fields of applications (aerospace, agricultural, rail and marine, electrical and energy, domestic appliance, building and construction, and medical sectors), but the automotive and truck industries remain the drivers of SMC technology. After a short introduction, this article gives successively detailed descriptions of (i) the materials used in SMC, (ii) their compounding, (iii) the compression molding process, (iv) the final properties of SMC, and (v) SMC recycling.
Smart Structures
Authors: Bystricky Pavel
Published: July 2012

While conventional structures are usually designed to fulfill a single primary purpose, smart structures add the ability to sense changes in their environment and use that information in a timely manner in ways that augment their functionality. Smart structures today are increasingly found in applications as diverse as analysis and reporting of damage (health monitoring),in siturepair of structural damage (self‐healing), and physical adaptability and active response to various operating conditions (morphing structures). In this article, we start with a review of the main classes of smart materials that make building smart structures possible. We review the fundamental principles that give these materials “smart” functionality, allowing them to sense external stimuli, adapt, and respond in various ways. We also provide a detailed example of implementation of a smart structure in the real world. The ever‐increasing variety of smart materials, each with very different capabilities and requirements, gives the designer of smart structures multiple options as well as challenges in this still maturing field. Smart materials, when combined with sophisticated signal processing and control hardware made possible by modern electronics, open the door for new generations of smart structures with advanced capabilities—such as the ability to “learn” and respond accordingly—that may one day blur the line between inanimate and living systems.
Standards and Specifications
Authors: Voto Claudio , Autiello Maria Assunta
Published: July 2012

This article discusses the importance of the use of Standards and Specifications, documents that specify methods, processes, test requirements, workmanship, parts, material, and design used repeatedly in the design, drafting, procurement, and manufacture of composite materials and products.

In this article two documents are reported as examples; in particular, one of them illustrates a composite material standard and the other a composite process specification.

Finally a listing of composite material specifications and a listing of applicable advanced composite ASTM (American Society for Testing Materials) standards are presented.
Stress Residual
Authors: Withers Philip J.
Published: July 2012

Residual stresses can have important consequences for the manufacture and the resulting properties of polymeric, metallic, and ceramic matrix composite materials and components. Because of the different mechanical, thermal, and shrinkage properties of the fibers and matrices, as well as the anisotropy of the constituent laminate, residual stresses can have many different origins and can arise at the matrix/fiber level, between plies and at the macroscale component level. Here, the origin of thermal stresses, shrinkage stresses, curing stresses, tooling‐induced stresses, environmental stresses, and loading‐induced residual stresses are considered. Furthermore, the means of quantifying such stresses by mechanical and nonmechanical methods across the various scales are described, including the use of embedded sensors. The implications of these different residual stresses are evaluated in terms of the matrix properties, distortion, transverse ply cracking, and thermal ratcheting. Finally, strategies for manipulating and controlling residual stresses are discussed centered on composite design, methods to delay the onset of transverse ply cracking, and via the use of heat treatments. Finally, the future opportunities for metal, ceramic, and polymer matrix composites as well as smart composite systems are discussed along with the emergence of 3D woven, stitched, and damage tolerant fiber architectures.
Thermal Spray Coatings
Authors: Pawłowski Lech
Published: July 2012

The entire technology of thermal spraying is described starting from an overview of related industry and economic impact. The materials used in spraying including feedstock and substrate are shown and thermal spraying methods divided into (i) high productivity, (ii) high kinetic energy, (iii) controlled atmosphere, and (iv) nanostructured coatings are shortly described. Then the different aspects of coatings, in particular, composites, such as microstructure, and different properties are shown. A few examples of coating applications in different branches of industry are shown. Finally, the trends of the technology are detected and some aspects of security problems related to the technology are shown.
Wood Composite Laminates
Authors: Cai Zhiyong
Published: July 2012

General composition, materials, and processes used to manufacture laminated wood composites are described in this article. Commonly used structural composite lumbers intended for structural and nonstructural applications, the mechanical properties of these types of laminated wood composites, and their performance standards are presented and discussed.
Enhanced Grain Refinement Through Deformation Induced α Precipitation in Hot Working of α + β Titanium Alloy
Authors: Liu Bin , Li Yunping , Matsumoto Hiroaki , Koizumi Yuichiro , Liu Yong , Chiba Akihiko
Published: July 2012

This study reports a novel forging process to fabricate bulk fine‐grained (grain size ≈ 1 µm) Ti–6Al–4V alloy, in which temperatures near the β transus (Tβ) and strain rates around 0.15 s−1 are used for the deformation. The formation of fine‐grained microstructure is mainly result from the deformation‐induced precipitation of α grains from the β matrix.
Vesicular Structures Self‐Assembled from Oligonucleotide‐Polymer Hybrids: Mechanical Prevention of Bacterial Colonization Upon their Surface Tethering Through Hybridization
Authors: Cottenye Nicolas , Anselme Karine , Ploux Lydie , Vebert‐Nardin Corinne
Published: July 2012

In order to design soft coatings, surface tethering of vesicular structures self‐assembled from oligonucleotide‐polymer hybrids is achieved through hybridization. Watson‐Crick base‐pairing occurs between the nucleotide sequences involved in the self‐assembly and their surface‐tethered complementary sequences. Combining the quartz crystal microbalance and in situ observations using confocal laser scanning microscopy, it is evidenced that the vesicles retain their morphology even under flow stress. Surprisingly, these soft surfaces prevent bacterial colonization.
Advances in Molecular Genetics of Hirschsprung's Disease
Authors: Pan Zhi‐Wen , Li Ji‐Cheng
Published: July 2012

Hirschsprung's disease (HSCR) is a developmental disorder of the enteric nervous system, which occurs due to the failure of neural crest cells to fully colonize the gut during embryonic development. It is characterized by the absence of the enteric ganglia in a variable length of the intestine. Substantial progress has been made in understanding the genetic basis of HSCR with the help of advanced genetic analysis techniques and animal models. More than 11 genes have been found to be involved in the pathogenesis of HSCR. The RET gene is the most important susceptibility gene involved in HSCR with both coding and non‐ coding sequence mutations. Due to phenotypic diversity and genetic complexity observed in HSCR, mutational analysis has limited practical value in genetic counseling and clinical practice. In this review, we discuss the progress that has been made in understanding the molecular genetics of HSCR and summarize the currently identified genes as well as interactions between pathways and gene‐modifying loci in HSCR. Anat Rec, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Recombinantly produced cellobiose dehydrogenase from Corynascus thermophilus for glucose biosensors and biofuel cells
Authors: Harreither Wolfgang , Felice Alfons K. G. , Paukner Regina , Gorton Lo , Ludwig Roland , Sygmund Christoph
Published: July 2012

Cellobiose dehydrogenase (CDH) is an emerging enzyme in the field of bioelectrocatalysis. Due to its flexible cytochrome domain, which acts as a built‐in redox mediator, CDH is capable of direct electron transfer (DET) to electrode surfaces. This rare property is employed in mediatorless “third generation” biosensors. The ability of Corynascus thermophilus CDH to oxidize glucose under physiological conditions makes it a promising candidate for miniaturized glucose biosensors or glucose powered biofuel cell anodes. We report for the first time the electrochemical application and characterization of a recombinantly produced CDH in a glucose biosensor. Recombinant CDH from C. thermophilus (rCtCDH) was expressed by the methylotrophic yeast Pichia pastoris (376 U L–1, 132 mg L–1). A comparative characterization of rCtCDH and CtCDH shows identical pH optima, KM values and heme b midpoint potentials. In contrast, the specific activity of rCtCDH (2.84 U mg–1) and consequently the turnover numbers were ∼five‐times lower than for CtCDH, which was caused by a sub‐stoichiometric occupation of catalytic sites with flavin‐adenin‐dinukleotid (FAD). The performance of rCtCDH‐modified electrodes demonstrates the suitability for electrochemical studies. This opens the possibility to engineer the substrate specificity of C. thermophilus CDH for specific carbohydrates by rational engineering or directed evolution.
Initial clinical experience with the Coherex FlatStent™ and FlatStent™ EF PFO closure system for in‐tunnel PFO closure: Results of the Coherex‐EU study
Authors: Sievert Horst , Wunderlich Nina , Reiffenstein Isabel , Ruygrok Peter , Grube Eberhard , Buellesfeld Lutz , Meier Bernhard , Schofer Joachim , Muller David , Jones Randall K. , Gillam Linda
Published: July 2012

Objective

The Coherex‐EU Study evaluated the safety and efficacy of PFO closure utilizing novel in‐tunnel PFO closure devices.

Background

Transcatheter closure of patent foramen ovale (PFO) followed the development of transcatheter closure devices designed to patch atrial septal defects (ASDs). The Coherex FlatStent™ and FlatStent™ EF devices were designed specifically to treat PFO anatomy.

Methods

A total of 95 patients with a clinical indication for PFO closure were enrolled in a prospective, multicenter first in man study at six clinical sites. Thirty‐six patients received the first‐generation FlatStent study device, and 57 patients received the second‐generation FlatStent EF study device, which was modified based on clinical experience during the first 38 cases. Two patients enrolled to receive the first generation did not receive a device.

Results

At 6 months post‐procedure, 45% (17/38) of the intention‐to‐treat (ITT) cohort receiving the first‐generation FlatStent device had complete closure, 26% (10/38) had a trivial residual shunt, and 29% (11/38) had a moderate to large residual shunt. In the ITT cohort receiving the second‐generation FlatStent EF device, 76% (43/57) had complete closure, 12% (7/57) had a trivial shunt, and 12% had a moderate to large shunt. Five major adverse events occurred, all without sequelae.

Conclusion

This initial study of the Coherex FlatStent/FlatStent EF PFO Closure System demonstrated the potential for in‐tunnel PFO closure. The in‐tunnel Coherex FlatStent EF may offer an alternative to septal repair devices for PFO closure in appropriately selected patients; however, further investigation will be necessary to establish the best use of this device. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mineralization of Catechol by Fenton and Photo‐Fenton Processes
Authors: M'hemdi Asma , Dbira Bechir , Abdelhedi Ridha , Brillas Enric , Ammar Salah
Published: July 2012

Catechol is one of the most abundant phenolic components of olive mill wastewaters. In this article, the mineralization of this compound in synthetic aqueous solutions by the Fenton and photo‐Fenton processes is studied. It has been found that for 1.44 mM catechol, the total organic carbon of solutions is reduced about 94.4% at best after 60 min of Fenton treatment at optimized conditions of pH 3.0, 0.2 mM Fe2+, 7.09 mM H2O2, and 25°C. A faster and overall mineralization is attained by applying photo‐Fenton with UVA irradiation. o‐Benzoquinone, 1,2,3‐trihydroxybenzene and 1,2,4‐trihydroxybenzene were identified by GC–MS as primary quinonic and polyhydroxylated derivatives. Small amounts of generated carboxylic acids like muconic, maleic, malonic, acetic, oxalic, and formic acids were detected by ion‐exclusion chromatography. The Fe(III) complexes of these acids persist in the medium under Fenton conditions, while their photolysis by UVA light and that of other by‐products account for by the faster degradation and total mineralization achieved in the photo‐Fenton process. A reaction sequence for catechol mineralization by Fenton and photo‐Fenton involving all intermediates detected is proposed.
The Reactivity of 5‐Cyanotetrazole towards Water and Hydroxylamine
Authors: Fischer Niko , Klapötke Thomas M. , Rappenglück Sebastian , Stierstorfer Jörg
Published: July 2012

Sodium 5‐cyanotetrazolate sesquihydrate (1) was prepared from sodium azide and two equivalents of sodium cyanide under acidic conditions. Its hydrolysis, when treated with an excess of 6 M nitric acid yields tetrazole‐5‐carboxamide (4), whereas stoichiometric amounts of 2 M nitric acid yields the free acid 5‐cyanotetrazole (2). 5‐Cyanotetrazole readily reacts with hydroxylammonium chloride to form the oxime of tetrazole‐5‐carboxamide (6). Both compounds, the tetrazole‐5‐carboxamide (4) and its oxime (6), bear an acidic proton, which can be abstracted with bases such as aqueous ammonia or hydroxylamine, to form the respective hydroxylammonium (5, 7) or ammonium salts (8). Also the guanidinium (9) and the triaminoguanidinium salt (10) were prepared using guanidinium and triaminoguanidinium chloride, respectively. All mentioned compounds, including the silver salt of 5‐cyanotetrazole (3), were structurally characterized by low‐temperature single‐crystal X‐ray analysis. In additional, the materials were characterized using NMR and vibrational (IR, Raman) spectroscopy as well as mass spectrometry and elemental analysis. The thermal behavior was studied from DSC measurements and the sensitivities of the compounds towards shock, friction, and electrostatic discharge were determined. Moreover, the heats of formation were calculated (atomization method, CBS‐4M enthalpies) and several detonation/propulsion parameters computed with the EXPLO5 code.
Noncomputability, unpredictability, undecidability, and unsolvability in economic and finance theories
Authors: Kao Ying‐Fang , Ragupathy V. , Velupillai K. Vela , Zambelli Stefano
Published: July 2012

We outline, briefly, the role that issues of the nexus between noncomputability and unpredictability, on the one hand, and between undecidability and unsolvability, on the other hand, have played in Computable Economics (CE). The mathematical underpinnings of CE are provided by (classical) recursion theory, varieties of computable and constructive analysis and aspects of combinatorial optimization. The inspiration for this outline was provided by Professor Graça's thought‐provoking recent article. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity, 2012
Design and Implementation of a Modular Biomimetic Infochemical Communication System
Authors: Rácz Z. , Cole M. , Gardner J.W. , Chowdhury M.F. , Bula W.P. , Gardeniers J.G.E. , Karout S. , Capurro A. , Pearce T.C.
Published: July 2012

We describe here the design and implementation of a novel biomimetic infochemical communication system that employs airborne molecules alone to communicate over space and time. The system involves the design and fabrication of a microsystem capable of producing and releasing a precise mix of biosynthetic compounds and a sensor system capable of detecting and decoding the ratiometrically encoded chemical information.

The research inspired by biology has been based upon the biosynthetic pathways of infochemical production and information processing within the insect world. In this novel approach, the functional equivalents of the nanoscale biological machinery are implemented by combining the latest advances and convergence of expertise in the fields of biochemistry, molecular biology, neuroscience, micro‐ and nanofabrication, materials science, and smart sensor and microcircuit design. The biomimetic system comprises a micromachined bio‐reactor mimicking the sex gland of the female insect that releases a blend of pheromones in precisely controlled ratios, together with a cell‐based biosensor system, mimicking the antennae of the male insect. The signals from the biosensors are classified and ratios decoded using a field‐programmable gate array implementation of a neuromorphic model of the antenna lobe of the insect.

We believe that this novel, smart infochemical communication system, inspired by the insect's behavior, could eventually be implemented in VLSI technology at low cost and low power with possible application in the fields of automatic identification and data capturing, product labeling, search and rescue, environmental monitoring, and pest control. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Why‐ and how‐ to integrate Verilog‐A compact models in SPICE simulators
Authors: Chalkiadaki Maria‐Anna , Valla Cédric , Poullet Frédéric , Bucher Matthias
Published: July 2012

This article presents a fast and accurate way to integrate and validate Verilog‐A compact models in SPICE‐like simulators. Modifications in the models' Verilog‐A source code may be required prior to their conversion into low‐level C language by a code generator. The most common of these modifications is discussed. The generated C code is then directly compiled in the target simulator resulting in an equivalent SPICE model. The comparison between Verilog‐A and SPICE models in the same simulation environment, for simple and complex circuits, validates the procedure. Performance tests for demanding designs are carried out for both models. Results highlight the higher simulation speed and lower memory consumption of SPICE models. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Morphology and Growth Mechanism of Comb‐like and Leaf‐like ZnO Nanostructures
Authors: Shi Feng , Xue Chengshan
Published: July 2012

Comb‐like ZnO nanostructures and leaf‐like nanostructures with a high crystalline quality are fabricated by chemical vapor deposition without any metallic catalyst. One leaf‐like nanostructure is formed by six comb‐like nanostructures, which are gathered at the bottom edge of each comb‐like nanostructure. Every comb‐like nanostructure consists of a wide, long microbelt. The growth of the comb‐like ZnO nanostructure includes nucleation, growth of the microbelt, and growth of the nanobelt array.
Transformation of Round‐shaped Graphene Disks into Hexagonal Domains in CVD
Authors: Fan Lili , Fan Xueliu , Wei Jinquan , Wang Kunlin , Wu Dehai , Zhu Hongwei
Published: July 2012

The CVD of graphene on metal substrates serves as an ideal platform for studying the nucleation and growth of two‐dimensional crystals. In this paper, the size distribution and shape transformation of graphene domains at early stages of CVD are investigated. The transformation of round‐shaped graphene disks into hexagonal domains during atmospheric pressure (AP)CVD on copper substrates is identified. The critical transformation size from graphene disks to hexagonal domains is ∼0.8 µm2 according to the size distribution statistics.
Generation and live imaging of an endogenous Cdx2 reporter mouse line
Authors: McDole Katie , Zheng Yixian
Published: July 2012

To understand cell fate specification and maintenance during development, it is essential to visualize both lineage markers and cell behaviors in real time using endogenous markers to report cell fate. We have generated a reporter line in which eGFP is fused to the endogenous locus of Cdx2, a transcription factor essential for trophectoderm specification, allowing us to visualize cell fate decisions in the preimplantation mouse embryo. We used two‐photon laser scanning microscopy to visualize expression of the endogenous Cdx2 fusion protein and show that Cdx2 undergoes phases of upregulation. Additionally, we show that as late as the 32‐cell stage, outer trophectoderm cells may change their fates by migrating inward and losing Cdx2 expression. Furthermore, the tools and techniques we report allow for dual‐colored imaging, which will greatly facilitate the study of not only preimplantation development, but later stages of development and tissues where Cdx2 plays an important role. genesis 50:775–782, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Genetic variability in geographic populations of the natterjack toad (Bufo calamita)
Authors: Oromi N. , Richter‐Boix A. , Sanuy D. , Fibla J.
Published: July 2012

Across altitudinal and latitudinal gradients, the proportion of suitable habitats varies, influencing the individual dispersal that ultimately can produce differentiation among populations. The natterjack toad (
Bufo calamita) is distributed across a wide geographic range that qualifies the species as interesting for a geographic analysis of its genetic variability. Five populations of
B. calamita in the Sierra de Gredos (Spain) were studied in an altitudinal gradient ranging from 750 to 2270 m using microsatellite markers. In addition, we analyzed the latitudinal genetic variation in
B. calamita within a global European distribution using genetic diversity parameters (mean number of alleles per locus [M

a
] and expected heterozygosity [H

E
]) obtained from our results and those published in the literature. The low level of genetic differentiation found between populations of
B. calamita (F

st
ranging from 0.0115 to 0.1018) and the decreases in genetic diversity with altitude (M

a
from 13.6 to 8.3, H

E
from 0.82 to 0.74) can be interpreted by the combined effects of discontinuous habitat, produced mainly by the high slopes barriers and geographic distance. In the latitudinal gradient, genetic diversity decreases from south to north as a consequence of the colonization of the species from the Pleistocene refugium. We conclude that the genetic variability in
B. calamita along its wide altitudinal and latitudinal geographic distribution mainly reflects the colonization history of the species after the last glacial period.
A messy reality: an analysis of New Zealand's elective surgery scoring system via media sources, 2000–2006
Authors: Derrett Sarah , Cousins Kim , Gauld Robin
Published: July 2012

Waiting lists for elective procedures are a characteristic feature of tax‐funded universal health systems. New Zealand has gained a reputation for its ‘booking system’ for waiting list management, introduced in the early‐1990s. The New Zealand system uses criteria to ‘score’ and then ‘book’ qualifying patients for surgery. This article aims to (i) describe key issues focused on by the media, (ii) identify local strategies and (iii) present evidence of variation. Newspaper sources were searched (2000–2006). A total of 1199 booking system stories were identified. Findings demonstrate, from a national system perspective, the extraordinarily difficult nature of maintaining overall control and coordination. Equity and national consistency are affected when hospitals respond to local pressure by reducing access to elective treatment. Findings suggest that central government probably needs to be closely involved in local‐level management and policy adjustments; that through the study period, the New Zealand system appears to have been largely out of the control of government; and that governments elsewhere may need to be cautious when considering developing similar systems. Developing and implementing scoring and booking systems may always be a ‘messy reality’ with unintended consequences and throwing regional differences in service management and access into stark relief. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification of ZNF217, hnRNP‐K, VEGF‐A and IPO7 as targets for microRNAs that are downregulated in prostate carcinoma
Authors: Szczyrba Jaroslaw , Nolte Elke , Hart Martin , Döll Celina , Wach Sven , Taubert Helge , Keck Bastian , Kremmer Elisabeth , Stöhr Robert , Hartmann Arndt , Wieland Wolf , Wullich Bernd , Grässer Friedrich A.
Published: July 2012

In primary prostate cancer (PCa), a major cause of cancer‐related death in men, the expression of various microRNAs (miRNAs) is deregulated. We previously detected several miRNAs, for example, miR‐24 and miR‐22, as significantly downregulated in PCa (Szczyrba et al., Mol Cancer Res 2010;8:529‐38). An in silico search predicted that zinc finger protein 217 (ZNF217) and importin 7 (IPO7) were potential target genes of these miRNAs. Additionally, for two genes that are deregulated in PCa (heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K, hnRNP‐K, and vascular endothelial growth factor A, VEGF‐A), we identified two regulatory miRNAs, miR‐205 and miR‐29b. The regulation of the 3′‐untranslated regions of the four genes by their respective miRNAs was confirmed by luciferase assays. As expected, the upregulation of ZNF217, hnRNP‐K, VEGF‐A and IPO7 could be verified at the protein level in the PCa cell lines LNCaP and DU145. ZNF217 and IPO7, which had not yet been studied in PCa, were analyzed in more detail. ZNF217 mRNA is overexpressed in primary PCa samples, and this overexpression translates to an elevated protein level. However, IPO7 was upregulated at the protein level alone. The inhibition of ZNF217 and IPO7 by siRNA resulted in reduced proliferation of the PCa cell lines. ZNF217 could thus be identified as an oncogene that is overexpressed in PCa and affects the growth of PCa cell lines, whereas the function of IPO7 remains to be elucidated in greater detail.
Endogenous inhibitor proteins that connect Ser/Thr kinases and phosphatases in cell signaling
Authors: Eto Masumi , Brautigan David L.
Published: July 2012

Protein phosphatase activity acts as a primary determinant of the extent and duration of phosphorylation of cellular proteins in response to physiological stimuli. Ser/Thr protein phosphatase‐1 (PP1) belongs to the PPP superfamily, and is associated with regulatory subunits that confer substrate specificity, allosteric regulation, and subcellular compartmentalization. In addition, all eukaryotic cells contain multiple heat‐stable proteins that originally were thought to inhibit phosphatase catalytic subunits released from the regulatory subunits, as a fail‐safe mechanism. However, discovery of C‐kinase‐activated PP1 inhibitor, Mr of 17 kDa (CPI‐17) required fresh thinking about the endogenous inhibitors as specific regulators of particular phosphatase complexes, acting in addition to, not instead of, regulatory subunits. The cellular actions of the endogenous inhibitors are controlled by phosphorylation, connecting them to kinase pathways. More recent progress has unveiled additional functions of PP1 inhibitor‐2 (I‐2), including regulation of protein kinases. Transcriptional mechanisms govern the expression levels of CPI‐17 in response to stimuli. If true for other inhibitor proteins, they have the potential of being diagnostic markers for pathological conditions. We discuss specific examples of PP1 inhibitor proteins regulating particular cellular functions and the rationale for incorporating phosphatase inhibitor proteins in development of new therapeutic strategies. © 2012 IUBMB IUBMB Life, IUBMB Life, 64(9): 732–739, 2012
Deciphering the role of malin in the lafora progressive myoclonus epilepsy
Authors: Romá‐Mateo Carlos , Sanz Pascual , Gentry Matthew S.
Published: July 2012

Lafora disease (LD) is a fatal, autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disorder that results in progressive myoclonus epilepsy. A hallmark of LD is the accumulation of insoluble, aberrant glycogen‐like structures called Lafora bodies. LD is caused by mutations in the gene encoding the E3 ubiquitin ligase malin or the glucan phosphatase laforin. Although LD was first described in 1911, its symptoms are still lacking a consistent molecular explanation and, consequently, a cure is far from being achieved. Some data suggest that malin forms a functional complex with laforin. This complex promotes the ubiquitination of proteins involved in glycogen metabolism and misregulation of pathways involved in this process results in Lafora body formation. In addition, recent results obtained from both cell culture and LD mouse models have highlighted a role of the laforin‐malin complex in the regulation of endoplasmic reticulum‐stress and protein clearance pathways. These results suggest that LD should be considered as a novel member of the group of protein clearance diseases such as Parkinson's, Huntington's, or Alzheimer's, in addition to being a glycogen metabolism disease. Herein, we review the latest results concerning the role of malin in LD and attempt to decipher its function. © 2012 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 64(10): 801–808, 2012
Dopaminergic therapies modulate the T‐CELL proteome of patients with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Alberio Tiziana , Pippione Agnese C. , Comi Cristoforo , Olgiati Simone , Cecconi Daniela , Zibetti Maurizio , Lopiano Leonardo , Fasano Mauro
Published: July 2012

Dopamine receptor agonists and L‐dihydroxyphenylalanine (L‐DOPA) counteract dopamine loss in the striatum and are therefore used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD). T‐Lymphocytes express some features of the dopaminergic system, and their function or activation might be regulated by dopaminergic treatments. Two‐dimensional electrophoresis of total protein extract from T‐lymphocytes was performed to identify therapy‐induced proteome changes in T‐cells of 17 patients with PD. Specific protein level alterations were further validated by Western blotting. Of 17 enrolled patients, 11 were treated with different doses of L‐DOPA; in this group, we found that the levels of two spots, corresponding to ATP synthase subunit β and proteasome subunit β type‐2, correlated linearly with the L‐DOPA daily dose. Moreover, we identified seven proteins (prolidase, actin‐related protein 2, F‐actin‐capping protein subunit β, tropomyosin α‐3 chain, proteasome activator complex subunit 1, peroxiredoxin 6, and a glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase isoform) whose levels were significantly different in patients treated with dopamine agonists. These findings demonstrate that dopaminergic stimulation has important effects on T‐cell proteome in patients under long‐term treatment. Therefore, therapies acting on the dopaminergic system may have additional effects on the immune system. © 2012 IUBMB, IUBMB Life, 64(10):846–852, 2012
Simulation of vibrational spectra of crystals by ab initio calculations: an invaluable aid in the assignment and interpretation of the Raman signals. The case of jadeite (NaAlSi2O6)
Authors: Prencipe Mauro
Published: July 2012

Raman shifts of crystalline materials can reliably be evaluated at the ab initio level, provided that suitable Hamiltonians, like the hybrid Hartree–Fock/density functional theory ones, are employed in the calculation. The Raman shifts of jadeite (NaAlSi2O6) were obtained by using the WC1LYP hybrid Hamiltonian, and the results are compared with those available for experimental determinations. The average discrepancy between the experimental and calculated data is less than 4 cm–1, with positive and negative maximum discrepancies of 5.5 and −10.5 cm–1, respectively. Such results are useful (i) for the correct assignment of the observed Raman signals to fundamental vibrational modes; (ii) for the identification of modes too weak to be detected experimentally, and (iii) for the deconvolution of bands resulting from the overlap of several modes in the experimental spectra. Moreover, the attribution of each observed signal to a particular motion of the atoms in the structure has been performed and discussed. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In‐silico prediction of gas chromatographic retention indices of some terpenols
Authors: Fatemi Mohammad H. , Malekzadeh Hanieh
Published: July 2012

A quantitative structure–retention relationship study based on multiple linear regression technique was carried out to investigate the gas chromatographic retention indices (RIs) of some terpenols on the HP 5 ms fused silica column. A collection of 75 terpene alcohols was chosen as dataset. The data were divided into two groups; a training set and a prediction set consist of 60 and 15 molecules, respectively. The best‐selected descriptors that appear in the models are; the Randic index order 1, Kier shape index order 2, total charge weighted partial negatively charged surface area, and fractional atomic charge weighted partial positive surface area. These descriptors can encode different features of molecules that are responsible for their steric, electronic, and lipophilicity interactions. The best‐obtained model had statistics of R2t = 0.959 and R2p = 0.952. The reliability of the model was evaluated by using the leave‐many‐out cross‐validation method (Q2 = 0.957 and SPRESS = 46.427) as well as by y‐scrambling and jackknife test. Furthermore, the chemical applicability domains of these models were determined via leverage approach. The simple developed four‐parameter linear model can predict the gas chromatographic RIs of terpenols.
A stability transfer theorem in d‐tame metric abstract elementary classes
Authors: Zambrano Pedro
Published: July 2012

In this paper, we study a stability transfer theorem in d‐tame metric abstract elementary classes, in a similar way as in 2, but using superstability‐like assumptions which involves a new independence notion (ζ*‐independence) instead of ℵ0‐locality.
Analyses of advanced iterated tour partitioning heuristics for generalized vehicle routing problems
Authors: Seth Anupam , Klabjan Diego , Ferreira Placid M.
Published: July 2012

Theoretical analyses of a set of iterated‐tour partitioning vehicle routing algorithms applicable to a wide variety of commonly used vehicle routing problem variants are presented. We analyze the worst‐case performance of the algorithms and establish tightness of the derived bounds. Among other variants, we capture the cases of pick‐up and delivery and multiple depots. We also introduce brand new concepts such as mobile depots, partitioning of customer nodes into groups, and potential opportunistic under‐utilization of vehicle capacity by only partially loading the vehicle, among others, which arise from a printed circuit board application. The problems studied are of critical importance in many practical applications. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, 2013
New copolymers of a tautomerizable β‐ketonitrile monomer: Synthesis, characterization and solution tautomerism
Authors: Giussi Juan M. , Allegretti Patricia E. , Cortizo M. Susana
Published: July 2012

The monomer 2‐methyl‐3‐oxo‐5‐phenyl‐4‐pentenonitrile (MOP) was prepared by reaction of ethyl cinnamate and propionitrile in alkaline mixture. This monomer exhibits three possible tautomeric forms. The tautomeric equilibria of MOP and its copolymers with styrene in different solvents were analyzed by 1H NMR spectroscopy. The bulk and solution radical copolymerization initiated with azobisisobutyronitrile was carried out at 60 °C. The products were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, HSQC NMR, HMBC NMR, and FTIR spectroscopies. The weight‐average molecular weight and polydispersity index were analyzed with size exclusion chromatography. The monomer reactivity ratios were obtained with the Fineman‐Ross method, obtaining a value of r1r2 = 0.286. MOP copolymer composition as well as the nature of the solvent significantly affected the tautomeric equilibrium. Regression analysis of the copolymer composition with solvatochromic parameters showed a good linear correlation, as quantitatively expressed by means of the linear solvation energy relationship using the empirical set of Kamlet‐Taft solvent parameters. This behavior could be attributed to polymer–polymer or polymer‐solvent interactions prevalent in solvents of different polarity, which are responsible for changes in macromolecular chain conformations, as confirmed by FTIR and viscometric studies. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Microstructure Evolution during Crystallization of Vapor‐Deposited Hexanitroazobenzene Films
Authors: Knepper Robert , Browning Katie , Wixom Ryan R. , Tappan Alexander S. , Rodriguez Mark A. , Alam M. Kathleen
Published: July 2012

Vapor‐deposited hexanitroazobenzene (HNAB) films were observed to form a dense amorphous structure that crystallizes to a mixture of the HNAB‐II polymorph and an unidentified structure over a period ranging from hours to weeks depending on the ambient temperature. Films crystallized at various temperatures were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and Raman spectroscopy to measure the impact of crystallization temperature on resultant microstructure. Crystallization temperature was observed to have different effects on film microstructure over two temperature regimes. At temperatures below approximately 65 °C, increases in temperature led to a greater fraction of the film forming the HNAB‐II polymorph and caused subtle changes in morphology. However, at higher temperatures, a thin surface layer was observed to form prior to crystallization, which led to films composed primarily of the unknown crystal structure with conspicuous differences in morphology.
Effect of Different Polymeric Matrices on Some Properties of Plastic Bonded Explosives
Authors: Elbeih Ahmed , Zeman Svatopluk , Jungova Marcela , Vávra Pavel , Akstein Zbynek
Published: July 2012

Matrices based on polyisobutylene (PIB), polymethyl‐methacrylate (PA), Viton A 200, Dyneon FT 2481 (Fluorel), and polydimethyl‐siloxane binders were studied as desensitizers. A series of plastic explosives (PBXs) were prepared, based on four different nitramines, namely RDX (1,3,5‐trinitro‐1,3,5‐triazinane), β‐HMX (β‐1,3,5,7‐tetranitro‐1,3,5,7‐tetrazocane), BCHMX (cis‐1,3,4,6‐tetranitro‐octahydroimidazo‐[4,5‐d]imidazole) and ε‐HNIW (ε‐2,4,6,8,10,12‐hexanitro‐2,4,6,8,10,12‐hexaazaisowurtzitane, ε‐CL‐20), bonded by the matrices mentioned. For comparison, pentaerythritol tetranitrate and certain commercial explosives based on it, Semtex 1A, Semtex 10 and Sprängdeg m/46, were used. Detonation velocities, sensitivities to impact and friction, and peak temperatures of thermal decomposition by differential thermal analysis technique (DTA) for all the explosives studied were determined. Heat of detonation was calculated by means of a thermodynamic calculation program (EXPLO 5 code). Fluoroelastomers have a neutral to positive effect on the thermal stability of nitramines and they have a significant effect on decreasing the friction sensitivity. However, their anti‐impact efficiency is the lowest in this study although they have a positive effect on performance of the corresponding PBXs. PA and PIB matrices markedly decrease thermal stability of nitramines, the anti‐impact influences of PIB‐binders are better than those of PA‐binders, while PA‐binders have a higher anti‐friction effect and slightly less negative influence on the performance of the PBXs in comparison with PIB mixtures. The polydimethyl‐siloxane matrix has a neutral effect on thermal stability of the nitramines studied, it has an influence on the volume thermochemistry of detonation comparable with that of fluoroelastomers although it does not provide comparable performance, and its corresponding PBXs have optimum sensitivity parameters.
Metal‐Fluorocarbon Pyrolants. XIII: High Performance Infrared Decoy Flare Compositions Based on MgB2 and Mg2Si and Polytetrafluoroethylene/Viton®
Authors: Koch Ernst‐Christian , Hahma Arno , Weiser Volker , Roth Evelin , Knapp Sebastian
Published: July 2012

In the presented work two experimental pyrolants for use in blackbody infrared decoy flares showing higher performance than baseline magnesium/polytetrafluoroethylene/Viton® (MTV) were investigated. These pyrolants are based on fuels hitherto unknown to pyrotechnics: magnesium diboride, MgB2, and dimagnesium silicide, Mg2Si. Both fuels were formulated with polytetrafluoroethylene, PTFE and a fluorocarbon binder Viton® (designated MbTV and MsTV). MsTV yields higher radiance, Lλ (W cm−2 sr−1) in the mid infrared range (2–5 μm) than MTV at same stoichiometry. The volumetric spectral efficiency Eλ (J cm−3 sr−1) of MbTV is also superior to MTV. MbTV thus allows for size reduction of black body countermeasure flares and thereby has potential to enhance the survivability of aircraft in hostile environments. Due to its very high burning rate MsTV qualifies for first fire and igniter applications.
High resolution X‐ray diffraction study of single crystal diamond radiators
Authors: Yang Guangliang , Livingston Ken , Jones Richard , Klein Franz
Published: July 2012

High quality single crystal diamond is widely used for generating highly polarized high energy photon beams in the photonuclear physics study. The quality of the diamond crystal has a vital effect on the polarization of the photon beam which should be as high as possible as required by the experiments at Jefferson Lab, MAX_lab and MAMI, etc. One 20 µm thick diamond radiator from Jefferson lab and one 100 µm thick diamond radiator from MAMI were investigated by X‐ray rocking curve and topograph measurements. The rocking curve results suggest that the 20 µm thick diamond radiator is severely deformed which explains why this diamond radiator showed unstable performance in the coherent bremsstrahlung experiments. The 100 µm thick diamond radiator was radiation damaged after being used in an 855 MeV electron beam line for several years. At the radiation damage region, it was found that the rocking curve width is significantly broadened, and the rocking curve peak position shifted towards the larger angle side by around 200 arcsec. Raman test confirmed that a significant amount non‐diamond phase exist at the radiation damage region.
Effect of thermal treatments and Co concentration on the structural and luminescent properties of sputtered TiO2:Co films
Authors: Carmona‐Rodríguez J. , Rodríguez‐Melgarejo F. , Vargas S. , Estévez M. , Hernández‐Landaverde M. A. , Urbina‐Alvarez J. E. , Márquez‐Marín J. , Zúñiga‐Romero C. , Rodríguez R. , Jiménez‐Sandoval S.
Published: July 2012

Thin films of Co‐doped titania were grown at room temperature by rf reactive co‐sputtering. A post‐growth annealing procedure was carried out at 300, 450, and 750 °C in an inert argon atmosphere. The samples were studied using X‐ray diffraction, micro Raman, UV–Vis, and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopies. The properties of the films were analyzed as a function of the Co concentration and the annealing temperature. The as‐grown films were amorphous; however, after a thermal annealing procedure the samples presented a Co‐concentration‐dependent transition to the anatase phase. In particular, the samples annealed at 300 °C showed a strong and broad PL signal that was quenched after exposure to an Ar+ laser beam (λ = 488.0 nm) focused through a microscope objective. The emission properties of the films have been ascribed to defects arising during the amorphous–anatase structural phase transition. It was also shown that the intensity and quenching rate of the PL depended upon the Co concentration and the annealing temperature.