bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative associations of scalp and body subcutaneous neurofibromas with internal plexiform tumors in neurofibromatosis 1
Authors: Jett Kimberly , Nguyen Rosa , Arman Darian , Birch Patricia , Chohan Harleen , Farschtschi Said , Fuensterer Carsten , Kluwe Lan , Friedman Jan M. , Mautner Victor F.
Published: April 2015

Internal plexiform neurofibromas are a major cause of adverse outcomes in patients with neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1). We investigated the relationship of the numbers of subcutaneous neurofibromas of the scalp or body to internal plexiform tumor volume in 120 NF1 patients who had undergone whole body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We identified internal plexiform neurofibromas in 55% of patients, subcutaneous neurofibromas of the body in 75%, and subcutaneous neurofibromas of the scalp in 45%. The number of subcutaneous neurofibromas of the body and scalp were associated with each other (Spearman's Rho = 0.36; P < 0.001). The presence of internal tumors was associated with the presence (odds ratio [OR] = 4.38, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.04–9.86, P < 0.001) and number (OR = 1.06 per neurofibroma, 95% CI 1.02–1.13, P < 0.001) of subcutaneous neurofibromas of the scalp. The total internal tumor volume was associated with the number of subcutaneous neurofibromas of the body (OR = 1.00086 per neurofibroma, 1.000089–1.0016, P = 0.029) and of the scalp (OR = 1.056 per neurofibroma, 1.029–1.083, P < 0.0001). Numbers of subcutaneous neurofibromas of the scalp and body are associated with internal plexiform tumor burden in NF1. Recognition of these associations may improve clinical management by helping to identify patients who will benefit most from whole body MRI and more intense clinical surveillance. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The third international meeting on genetic disorders in the RAS/MAPK pathway: Towards a therapeutic approach
Authors: Korf Bruce , Ahmadian Reza , Allanson Judith , Aoki Yoko , Bakker Annette , Wright Emma Burkitt , Denger Brian , Elgersma Ype , Gelb Bruce D. , Gripp Karen W. , Kerr Bronwyn , Kontaridis Maria , Lazaro Conxi , Linardic Corinne , Lozano Reymundo , MacRae Calum A. , Messiaen Ludwine , Mulero‐Navarro Sonia , Neel Benjamin , Plotkin Scott , Rauen Katherine A. , Roberts Amy , Silva Alcino J. , Sittampalam Sitta G. , Zhang Chao , Schoyer Lisa
Published: April 2015

“The Third International Meeting on Genetic Disorders in the RAS/MAPK Pathway: Towards a Therapeutic Approach” was held at the Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld Hotel (August 2–4, 2013). Seventy‐one physicians and scientists attended the meeting, and parallel meetings were held by patient advocacy groups (CFC International, Costello Syndrome Family Network, NF Network and Noonan Syndrome Foundation). Parent and patient advocates opened the meeting with a panel discussion to set the stage regarding their hopes and expectations for therapeutic advances. In keeping with the theme on therapeutic development, the sessions followed a progression from description of the phenotype and definition of therapeutic endpoints, to definition of genomic changes, to identification of therapeutic targets in the RAS/MAPK pathway, to preclinical drug development and testing, to clinical trials. These proceedings will review the major points of discussion. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Co‐occurrence of a de novo Williams and 22q11.2 microdeletion syndromes
Authors: Shukla Anju , Mandal Kausik , Patil Siddaramappa J. , Kishore Yougal , Phadke Shubha R. , Girisha Katta M.
Published: April 2015

We report on a child with de novo deletions involving the 7q11.23 (Williams syndrome) and 22q11.2 (Velocardiofacial/DiGeorge syndrome) regions. We describe the clinical features of this rare double microdeletion syndrome reported here for the first time. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Observer Based Control of a Missile Seeker System Using Sliding Modes
Authors: Tamhane Bhagyashri , Singh Dharmveer , Kurode Shailaja , Parkhi Prasad
Published: April 2015

Control of the seeker is important for successful operation of a missile. This paper proposes robust sliding mode control (SMC) with sliding mode observer (SMO) for the seeker. The SMO is designed for the extended state system wherein the disturbance is considered as an additional state. Estimated disturbance is used to update the SMC law.
Muddy water animation with different details
Authors: Baek Seungho , Um Kiwon , Han JungHyun
Published: April 2015

Muddy water is an example of suspension, which is a mixture containing particles that separate into distinct layers if left undisturbed. When stirred, however, the mud substance flows like a liquid and again begins settling out. Mud is composed of various sized particles, and they produce different effects when it is blended with water. This paper classifies the mud particles into three types and proposes different simulation methods for the types. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed methods effectively produce visually plausible muddy water effects. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A novel mutation of SETBP1 in atypical chronic myeloid leukemia transformed from acute myelomonocytic leukemia
Authors: Hu WangQiang , Wang XiaoXia , Yang RongRong , Xie YaoSheng , Zhang Zhuo , Lu Hong , Wu LianFeng , Lai MeiMei , Yu Kang
Published: April 2015

Key Clinical Message

To investigate an oncogenic mutation of SETBP1 in the evolution from acute myelomonocytic leukemia (M4) to secondary aCML. Clinical data and molecular studies were analyzed of paired aCML and 'normal'DNA from a case with M4. We identified a mutation in SETBP1 (encoding a p.Asp868Ala alteration). The analysis of paired sample indicated that SETBP1 mutation was acquired during leukemic evolution.
Treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia with bendamustine in an HIV‐infected patient on antiretroviral therapy: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Shimada Naoki , Yuji Koichiro , Ohno Nobuhiro , Koibuchi Tomohiko , Oyaizu Naoki , Uchimaru Kaoru , Tojo Arinobu
Published: April 2015

Key Clinical Message

Few reports have described the coincidence of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and HIV. We administered bendamustine to an HIV‐positive refractory CLL patient and obtained a significant objective response. Our results indicate that bendamustine can be used in HIV‐infected CLL patients. We also reviewed 12 cases of CLL with HIV infection.
An unusual case of solid appendicular mass in a young female
Authors: Kalyan Palanipriya , Schattner Mark A. , Weiser Martin R. , Kumar Sivapriya
Published: April 2015

Key Clinical Message

Endometriosis should be entertained as part of differential diagnosis in females in child‐bearing age group when there is an incidental finding of solid neoplasm on imaging. It helps to guide physicians for appropriate management. It is important to emphasize that no radiological or imaging finding is pathognomonic for endometriosis.
Chirality Influence of Zaltoprofen Towards UDP‐Glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs) Inhibition Potential
Authors: Jia Lin , Hu Cuimin , Wang Haina , Liu Yongzhe , Liu Xin , Zhang Yan‐Yan , Li Wei , Wang Li‐Xuan , Cao Yun‐Feng , Fang Zhong‐Ze
Published: April 2015

Zaltoprofen (ZLT) is a nonsteroidal antiinflammation drug, and has been clinically employed to treat rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and other chronic inflammatory pain conditions. The present study aims to investigate the chirality influence of zaltoprofen towards the inhibition potential towards UDP‐glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs) isoforms. In vitro a recombinant UGT isoforms‐catalyzed 4‐methylumbelliferone (4‐MU) glucuronidation incubation system was employed to investigate the inhibition of (R)‐zaltoprofen and (S)‐zaltoprofen towards UGT isoforms. The inhibition difference capability was observed for the inhibition of (R)‐zaltoprofen and (S)‐zaltoprofen towards UGT1A8 and UGT2B7, but not for other tested UGT isoforms. (R)‐zaltoprofen exhibited noncompetitive inhibition towards UGT1A8 and competitive inhibition towards UGT2B7. The inhibition kinetic parameters were calculated to be 35.3 μM and 19.2 μM for UGT1A8 and UGT2B7. (R)‐zaltoprofen and (S)‐zaltoprofen exhibited a different inhibition type towards UGT1A7. Based on the reported maximum plasma concentration of (R)‐zaltoprofen in vivo, a high drug–drug interaction between (R)‐zaltoprofen and the drugs mainly undergoing UGT1A7, UGT1A8, and UGT2B7‐catalyzed glucuronidation was indicated. Chirality 27:359–363, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Emphasizing unique strengths and eliminating redundancy for research in low‐income and middle‐income countries: Lessons from a South American country
Authors: Burotto Mauricio , Prasad Vinay
Published: April 2015

Although low‐ and middle‐income countries face countless challenges that high‐income countries do not, they still manage to make funding available for biomedical research and discovery. These nations must conduct research preferentially based on original work and avoid replicative research.
Harmonic resonance in a composite right‐handed and left‐handed transmission line periodically loaded with Schottky varactors
Authors: Narahara Koichi
Published: April 2015

Harmonic resonance is characterized in a composite right‐handed and left‐handed (CRLH) transmission line periodically loaded with Schottky varactors, termed a Schottky CRLH line, to achieve efficient second harmonic generation. CRLH line dispersion can cause the second harmonic wave to have the same phase velocity as the fundamental. Application of such fundamental wave enables its second harmonic to develop spontaneously. Both the fundamental and second harmonic waves can gain amplitudes as their phases advance owing to left‐handedness so that a second harmonic of significant amplitude can be obtained with the aid of cavity resonance. In this study, we discuss the design criteria for a Schottky CRLH line as a platform for second harmonic generation based on harmonic resonance. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mother–offspring distances reflect sex differences in fine‐scale genetic structure of eastern grey kangaroos
Authors: King Wendy J. , Garant Dany , Festa‐Bianchet Marco
Published: April 2015

Natal dispersal affects life history and population biology and causes gene flow. In mammals, dispersal is usually male‐biased so that females tend to be philopatric and surrounded by matrilineal kin, which may lead to preferential associations among female kin. Here we combine genetic analyses and behavioral observations to investigate spatial genetic structure and sex‐biased dispersal patterns in a high‐density population of mammals showing fission–fusion group dynamics. We studied eastern grey kangaroos (Macropus giganteus) over 2 years at Wilsons Promontory National Park, Australia, and found weak fine‐scale genetic structure among adult females in both years but no structure among adult males. Immature male kangaroos moved away from their mothers at 18–25 months of age, while immature females remained near their mothers until older. A higher proportion of male (34%) than female (6%) subadults and young adults were observed to disperse, although median distances of detected dispersals were similar for both sexes. Adult females had overlapping ranges that were far wider than the maximum extent of spatial genetic structure found. Female kangaroos, although weakly philopatric, mostly encounter nonrelatives in fission–fusion groups at high density, and therefore kinship is unlikely to strongly affect sociality.
Simple Synthesis of Two‐Dimensional Micro/Mesoporous Boron Nitride
Authors: Maleki Mahdi , Beitollahi Ali , Shokouhimehr Mohammadreza
Published: April 2015

Micro/mesoporous boron nitride (BN) nanosheets were synthesized through a simple one‐pot procedure using cetyl trimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and ammonia borane (AB) as a structure‐directing agent and a BN precursor, respectively. The pyrolysis of the CTAB/AB hybrid under an ammonia atmosphere at 1150 °C produced a white BN powder. We investigated the effect of the CTAB/AB weight ratio on the morphology and physical properties of the prepared powders. The obtained products were characterized by using X‐ray diffraction techniques, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and N2‐sorption analysis. We found that increasing the weight ratio of CTAB/AB changed the morphology of the synthesized materials from densely packed porous structures to two‐dimentional micro/mesoporous BN powders. The high surface area of 1401 cm2 g–1 and pore volume of 1.56 cm3 g–1 and micropore volume of 0.41 cm3 g–1 were obtained for a CTAB/AB weight ratio of 10:1. Hydrogen sorption analysis revealed that the obtained powder has a hydrogen‐adsorption capacity of approximately 1 wt.‐% at 77 K and 100 kPa.
Unexpected Emission Properties of a 1,8‐Naphthalimide Unit Covalently Appended to a Zn–Salophen
Authors: Piccinno Martina , Aragay Gemma , Mihan Francesco Yafteh , Ballester Pablo , Dalla Cort Antonella
Published: April 2015

We report the synthesis, characterization, and binding properties of a Zn–salophen complex, 1a, functionalized with a 1,8‐naphthalimide unit. Unexpectedly, the emission spectrum of 1a shows a remarkable quenching of the band assigned to the naphthalimide unit. To better understand this phenomenon, a supramolecular model system constituted by a symmetric Zn–salophen and a pyridyl derivative of 1,8‐naphthalimide, 1b·2a, was investigated. We propose the existence of a photoinduced energy transfer process between the naphthalimide (donor) and the salophen (acceptor) units in 1b·2a. A similar process must be operative in the covalent receptor 1a. Nevertheless, the results deriving from steady‐state fluorescence experiments do not rule out the occurrence of a photoinduced electron transfer process as alternative pathway for the quenching. We also describe the chemosensing properties of receptor 1a and the supramolecular system 1b·2a towards acetate. The nonsymmetrically substituted salophen receptor 1a only transduces the binding of the anion to the Zn metal center in significant spectroscopic changes in its absorption spectrum. On the other hand, we exploit the strong emission quenching experienced by the naphthalimide component in the supramolecular complex 1b·2a to detect anions (e.g. acetate) by means of a typical “turn‐on” fluorescent indicator displacement assay.
Facile, One‐Step Synthesis of 5‐Substituted Thieno[3,4‐c]pyrrole‐4,6‐dione by Palladium‐Catalyzed Carbonylative Amidation
Authors: Fuse Shinichiro , Takahashi Ryota , Takahashi Takashi
Published: April 2015

Described herein is a facile, one‐step synthesis of 5‐substituted thieno[3,4‐c]pyrrole‐4,6‐diones (TPDs) by a palladium‐catalyzed carbonylative amidation of commercially available dibromoaryl compounds under mild conditions. TPDs are important structural components for organic electronics. Our optimal conditions afforded the desired 5‐n‐octyl‐TPD in a 63 % yield in one step. This is a considerably improved process compared with the most conventional approach (5 steps in 12–22 %) In addition, this method was applied to the syntheses of pyridinopyrroledione (PPD) and pyrroloisoindoletetraone (PIT), which also are important structural components for various functional materials and bioactive compounds. The developed synthetic approach would be a valuable aid to the materials and drug discovery process.
An online acquisition method for monitoring the surface growth of flame retardant protective layers
Authors: Dos Santos Rosane , Floris Moreno , Banfi Michele , Oberrauch Ermanno , Marchizza Matteo , Malucelli Giulio , Tognola Guido , Castrovinci Andrea
Published: April 2015

This paper describes the development of a video acquisition system aimed at monitoring the surface growth of flame‐retarded polymers during flammability and combustion tests. The system minimizes the disturbances of the flames on the image sensors, thus gathering a video of the material surface. The device continuously records and quantitatively measures the carbonization front growth rate. The apparatus consists of a camera with customized lighting and dedicated software acquiring images of the burning specimen. The UL94 test procedure has been used during the development of the device and as test bed for the apparatus. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Parkinson's disease‐associated PINK1G309D mutation increases abnormal phosphorylation of Tau
Authors: Ye Ming , Zhou Dai , Zhou Youxin , Sun Chunming
Published: April 2015

Mutations in PINK1 gene have been considered the second most common cause of Autosomal Recessive Parkinsonism (ARP). So far, different homozygous PINK1 mutations have been identified in different ARP patients. Abnormal hyperphosphorylation of tau leads to the loss of its biological activity. Multiple lines of evidence have demonstrated that hyperphosphorylated tau is associated with Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the effects of PD associated PINK1 mutations in tau phosphorylation are unknown. In this study, we investigated the effect of G309D PINK1 mutation in tau phosphorylation. Cells transfected with mutant G309D PINK1 exhibited a significant increase in the phosphorylation of tau protein at the PHF‐1 (ser396/404) site. The levels of CDK5, an important activator of tau phosphorylation, did not change in mutant G309D PINK1 transfected cells, suggesting that CDK5 is not involved in tau phosphorylation induced by mutant G309D PINK1. Notably, we found that mutant G309D PINK1 significantly reduced phosphorylation of GSK3β at serine 9, suggesting that alterations in GSK3β activity play an essential role in mutant G309D PINK1‐induced tau phosphorylation at the PHF‐1 site. PP2A activity maintained consistent in mutant G309D PINK1 transfected cells, suggesting that the increased tau hyperphosphorylation is not ascribed to reduction in PP2A activity. © 2015 IUBMB Life, 67(4):286–290, 2015
Label‐free in vivo imaging of peripheral nerve by multispectral photoacoustic tomography
Authors: Li Rui , Phillips Evan , Wang Pu , Goergen Craig J. , Cheng Ji‐Xin
Published: April 2015

Unintentional surgical damage to nerves is mainly due to poor visualization of nerve tissue relative to adjacent structures. Multispectral photoacoustic tomography can provide chemical information with specificity and ultrasonic spatial resolution with centimeter imaging depth, making it a potential tool for noninvasive neural imaging. To implement this label‐free imaging approach, a multispectral photoacoustic tomography platform was built. Imaging depth and spatial resolution were characterized. In vivo imaging of the femoral nerve that is 2 mm deep in a nude mouse was performed. Through multivariate curve resolution analysis, the femoral nerve was discriminated from the femoral artery and chemical maps of their spatial distributions were generated.

The femoral nerve was discriminated from the femoral artery by multivariate curve resolution analysis.

magnified image

The femoral nerve was discriminated from the femoral artery by multivariate curve resolution analysis.
Osteogenesis around CaP‐coated titanium implants visualized using 3D histology and micro‐computed tomography
Authors: Cuijpers Vincent M. J. I. , Alghamdi Hamdan S. , Van Dijk Natasja W. M. , Jaroszewicz Jakub , Walboomers X. Frank , Jansen John A.
Published: April 2015

Calcium phosphate (CaP) coatings can enhance the performance of bone implants in compromised conditions, such as osteoporosis. Therefore, this study compared non‐coated vs. CaP‐coated (n = 8) titanium implants in osteoporotic ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Bone volume (BV) was assessed using micro‐computer tomography (micro‐CT) and three‐dimensional (3D) histology, in three zones from the implant surface. Bone remodeling was assessed using fluorochrome labels and osteoclast staining. Micro‐CT and 3D histology showed a BV reduction in OVX animals, of respectively 22.4 and 10.5%. BV was significantly increased inside all zones around CaP coatings, especially in the inner zone of the OVX animals. Fluorochrome labels were predominantly seen when the coating was applied. Osteoclasts were mainly found in the area remote from the surface of non‐coated implants in control animals. For the coated implants, osteoclasts were distributed evenly, and present in direct vicinity of the surface. In conclusion, 3D histology is a suitable technique to obtain data and insight into bone architecture around implants at relatively high resolution. Bone formation was significantly reduced in osteoporotic animals. CaP coatings resulted in a higher BV directly around implants installed in osteoporotic animals, enhanced turnover, and a shift of remodeling activity toward the implant surface. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 103A: 3463–3473, 2015.
Cultures of Schwann–like cells differentiated from adipose‐derived stem cells on PDMS/MWNT sheets as a scaffold for peripheral nerve regeneration
Authors: Han In Ho , Sun Fangfang , Choi Yoon Ji , Zou Fengming , Nam Kyoung Hyup , Cho Won Ho , Choi Byung Kwan , Song Geun Sung , Koh Kwangnak , Lee Jaebeom
Published: April 2015

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are promising candidates as novel scaffolds for peripheral nerve regeneration. Schwann cells (SCs) are attractive therapeutic targets due to their pivotal role in peripheral nerve regeneration, but primary SCs have limitations for clinical application. However, adipose‐derived stem cells (ASCs) may differentiate into Schwann‐like cells. The present study assesses the potential applicability of multiwall CNTs (MWNTs) composited with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), which were then seeded with differentiated adipose‐derived stem cells (dASCs) to promote neuronal differentiation and growth. Aqueous MWNT dispersion was filtered, and the PDMS/MWNT sheets were prepared using a simple printing‐transfer method. Characterization of PDMS/MWNT sheets indicated their unique physical properties, such as superior mechanical strength and electroconductivity, compared with bare PDMS sheets. ASCs were differentiated into Schwann‐like cells using a mixture of glial growth factors. Dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons were co‐cultured with SCs and dASCs on PDMS/MWNTs sheets or noncoated dishes. An alamar blue proliferation assay of dASC and SCs showed significantly more dASC and SCs cultured on PDMS/MWNT sheets at 48 h and 72 h than when cultured on noncoated dishes (p < 0.05). Additionally, when DRG were cultured on PDMS/MWNT sheets seeded with dASCs, the proliferation of DRG neurons and the longest neurite outgrowth length per neuron were significantly greater than when DRG were cultured on PDMS/MWNT sheets alone or on noncoated dishes seeded with SCs or dASCs (p < 0.05). Overall, PDMS/MWNT sheets exhibited excellent biocompatibility for culturing Schwann‐like cells differentiated from ASCs. Seeding the dASCs on PDMS/MWNT sheets may produce synergistic effects in peripheral nerve regeneration, similarly to SCs. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 103A: 3642–3648, 2015.
Multifunctional nanoparticles for gene delivery and spinal cord injury
Authors: Gwak So‐Jung , Koo Heebeom , Yun Yeomin , Yhee Ji Young , Lee Hye Yeong , Yoon Do Heum , Kim Kwangmeyung , Ha Yoon
Published: April 2015

Methylprednisolone (MP) is a glucocorticoid that is used as an anti‐inflammatory agent to the treat spinal cord injury (SCI). A low molecular weight chitosan was used to synthesize chitosan‐MP conjugate, which was used to evaluate the gene therapy, anti‐inflammatory and anti‐apoptotic effects of MP. The cytotoxicity of chitosan‐MP nanoparticles and the transfection efficiency of plasmid DNA were evaluated by MTT and luciferase assays. A chitosan‐MP/pDNA complexes was injected into injured spinal cord to evaluate the anti‐inflammatory and anti‐apoptotic effects of these complexes using terminal deoxynucleotide transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) and ED1 staining, respectively. In addition, to evaluate the distribution of chitosan‐MP/pDNA complexes, pβ‐gal encapsulated chitosan‐MP was injected into the injected site. Cell survival was similar in cells treated with chitosan‐MP conjugate and untreated cells. Luciferase expression was higher in cells treated with the chitosan‐MP/pDNA than cells treated with the chitosan/pDNA. The chitosan‐MP/pDNA complexes also reduced apoptosis and inflammation at the injury site. These results suggest that chitosan‐MP conjugation is an effective gene delivery system to treat SCI. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 103A: 3474–3482, 2015.
Bridging organometallics and quantum chemical topology: Understanding electronic relocalisation during palladium‐catalyzed reductive elimination
Authors: de Courcy Benoit , Derat Etienne , Piquemal Jean‐Philip
Published: April 2015

This article proposes to bridge two fields, namely organometallics and quantum chemical topology. To do so, Palladium‐catalyzed reductive elimination is studied. Such reaction is a classical elementary step in organometallic chemistry, where the directionality of electrons delocalization is not well understood. New computational evidences highlighting the accepted mechanism are proposed following a strategy coupling quantum theory of atoms in molecules and electron localization function topological analyses and enabling an extended quantification of donated/back‐donated electrons fluxes along reaction paths going beyond the usual Dewar–Chatt–Duncanson model. Indeed, if the ligands coordination mode (phosphine, carbene) is commonly described as dative, it appears that ligands lone pairs stay centered on ligands as electrons are shared between metal and ligand with strong delocalization toward the latter. Overall, through strong trans effects coming from the carbon involved in the reductive elimination, palladium delocalizes its valence electrons not only toward phosphines but interestingly also toward the carbene. As back‐donation increases during reductive elimination, one of the reaction key components is the palladium ligands ability to accept electrons. The rationalization of such electronic phenomena gives new directions for the design of palladium‐catalyzed systems. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Interaction potential models for bulk Zns, Zns nanoparticle, and Zns nanoparticle‐PMMA from first‐principles
Authors: Namsani Sadanandam , Nair Nisanth N. , Singh Jayant K.
Published: April 2015

An ab initio derived transferable polarizable force‐field has been developed for Zinc sulphide (ZnS) nanoparticle (NP) and ZnS NP‐PMMA nanocomposite. The structure and elastic constants of bulk ZnS using the new force‐field are within a few percent of experimental observables. The new force‐field show remarkable ability to reproduce structures and nucleation energies of nanoclusters (Zn1S1‐Zn12S12) as validated with that of the density functional theory calculations. A qualitative agreement of the radial distribution functions of ZnO, in a ZnS nanocluster‐PMMA system, obtained using molecular mechanics molecular dynamics (MD) and ab initio MD (AIMD) simulations indicates that the ZnS–PMMA interaction through ZnO bonding is explained satisfactorily by our force‐field. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Myeloid Zinc Finger 1 (MZF‐1) Regulates Expression of the CCN2/CTGF and CCN3/NOV Genes in the Hematopoietic Compartment
Authors: Piszczatowski Richard T. , Rafferty Brian J. , Rozado Andre , Parziale James V. , Lents Nathan H.
Published: April 2015

Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CCN2/CTGF) and Nephroblastoma Overexpressed (CCN3/NOV) execute key functions within the hematopoietic compartment. Both are abundant in the bone marrow stroma, which is a niche for hematopoiesis and supports marrow function. Roles for 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 (calcitriol) and all‐trans retinoic acid in the bone marrow have also been elucidated. Interestingly, some of the annotated roles of these vitamins overlap with established functions of CCN2 and CCN3. Yet, no factor has been identified that unifies these observations. In this study, we report the regulation of the CTGF and NOV genes by Myeloid Zinc Finger‐1 (MZF‐1), a hematopoietic transcription factor. We show the interaction of MZF‐1 with the CTGF and NOV promoters in several cell types. Up‐regulation of MZF‐1 via calcitriol and vitamin A induces expression of CTGF and NOV, implicating a role for these vitamins in the functions of these two genes. Lastly, knockdown of MZF1 reduces levels of CTGF and NOV. Collectively, our results argue that MZF‐1 regulates the CTGF and NOV genes in the hematopoietic compartment, and may be involved in their respective functions in the stroma. J. Cell. Physiol. 9999: 2634–2639, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evaluation of the effect of food and gastric pH on the single‐dose pharmacokinetics of cabozantinib in healthy adult subjects
Authors: Nguyen Linh , Holland Jaymes , Mamelok Richard , Laberge Marie‐Kristine , Grenier Julie , Swearingen Dennis , Armas Danielle , Lacy Steven
Published: April 2015

Cabozantinib is a small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitor that has been approved for the treatment of patients with progressive, metastatic medullary thyroid cancer. Cabozantinib exhibits a pH‐dependent solubility profile in vitro. Two phase 1 clinical pharmacology studies were conducted in healthy subjects to evaluate whether factors that may affect cabozantinib solubility and gastric pH could alter cabozantinib bioavailability: a food effect study (study 1) and a drug–drug interaction (DDI) study with the proton pump inhibitor (PPI) esomeprazole (study 2). Following a high‐fat meal (study 1), cabozantinib Cmax and AUC were increased (40.5% and 57%, respectively), and the median tmax was delayed by 2 hours. Cabozantinib should thus not be taken with food (patients should not eat for at least 2 hours before and at least 1 hour after administration). In the DDI study (study 2), the 90% confidence intervals (CIs) around the ratio of least‐squares means of cabozantinib with esomeprazole versus cabozantinib alone for AUC0–inf were within the 80%–125% limits; the upper 90%CI for Cmax was 125.1%. Because of the low apparent risk of a DDI, concomitant use of PPIs or weaker gastric pH‐altering agents with cabozantinib is not contraindicated.
Ghrelin prevents tumour‐ and cisplatin‐induced muscle wasting: characterization of multiple mechanisms involved
Authors: Chen Ji‐an , Splenser Andres , Guillory Bobby , Luo Jiaohua , Mendiratta Meenal , Belinova Blaga , Halder Tripti , Zhang Guohua , Li Yi‐Ping , Garcia Jose M.
Published: April 2015

Background

Cachexia and muscle atrophy are common consequences of cancer and chemotherapy administration. The novel hormone ghrelin has been proposed as a treatment for this condition. Increases in food intake and direct effects on muscle proteolysis and protein synthesis are likely to mediate these effects, but the pathways leading to these events are not well understood.

Methods

We characterized molecular pathways involved in muscle atrophy induced by Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) tumour implantation in c57/bl6 adult male mice and by administration of the chemotherapeutic agent cisplatin in mice and in C2C12 myotubes. The effects of exogenous ghrelin administration and its mechanisms of action were examined in these settings.

Results

Tumour implantation and cisplatin induced muscle atrophy by activating pro‐inflammatory cytokines, p38‐C/EBP‐β, and myostatin, and by down‐regulating Akt, myoD, and myogenin, leading to activation of ubiquitin‐proteasome‐mediated proteolysis and muscle weakness. Tumour implantation also increased mortality. In vitro, cisplatin up‐regulated myostatin and atrogin‐1 by activating C/EBP‐β and FoxO1/3. Ghrelin prevented these changes in vivo and in vitro, significantly increasing muscle mass (P < 0.05 for LLC and P < 0.01 for cisplatin models) and grip strength (P = 0.038 for LLC and P = 0.001 for cisplatin models) and improving survival (P = 0.021 for LLC model).

Conclusion

Ghrelin prevents muscle atrophy by down‐regulating inflammation, p38/C/EBP‐β/myostatin, and activating Akt, myogenin, and myoD. These changes appear, at least in part, to target muscle cells directly. Ghrelin administration in this setting is associated with improved muscle strength and survival.
Inhibitory effect of silver on activated sludge: effect of organic substrate and the carbon to nitrogen ratio
Authors: Çeçen Ferhan , Kılıç Başak
Published: April 2015

BACKGROUND

Sensitivity of activated sludge to heavy metals may depend on the strength and type of organics in the feed. However, literature data are usually derived from systems with an unknown or variable composition. To fill this gap, this study examined whether in activated sludge systems the inhibitory effect of Ag+ depended on the carbon to nitrogen (COD/TKN) ratio and the type of organic matter in the feed.

RESULTS

Different activated sludges reactors were operated at steady‐state conditions. Regularly, sludge samples taken from reactors were contacted with Ag+ in a respirometer and the inhibitory effect was determined by the relative decreases in O2 consumption and CO2 generation. The inhibitory property of Ag+ drastically increased as the COD/TKN ratio became lower. While sludges fed with acetate, glucose and peptone or glucose alone were equally inhibited when exposed to Ag+, the peptone‐fed sludge proved to be much more resistant. It was also clarified whether indicated Ag+ doses had an effect on nitrification, organic carbon removal or both processes.

CONCLUSION

To date, comparative evaluations have rarely been made between different activated sludge systems in understanding the response to silver input. Overall, this study pointed to the need to consider the characteristics of the feed to explain the discrepancies between different activated sludge systems. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Synthesis and Reactivity of Phenylthiourea Derivatives: An Efficient Synthesis of New Thiazole‐Based Heterocycles
Authors: Sayed Samia M. , Raslan Mohamed A. , Dawood Kamal M.
Published: April 2015

Reaction of 1‐(5‐acetyl‐4‐methylthiazol–2‐yl)–3‐phenylthiourea 2 with hydrazonoyl chlorides (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f) and 9 yielded the corresponding (thiazolyl)imino–1,3,4‐thiadiazole derivatives (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f) and 12, respectively. Reaction of 2 with ethyl chloroacetate 13 gave (thiazolyl)imino‐1,3‐thiazolidin‐4‐one derivative 15, which upon condensation with aromatic aldehyde derivatives yielded the 5‐benzylidene derivatives (16a, 16b). In addition, treatment of 2 with 3‐chloropenta‐2,4‐dione 17 afforded the corresponding (thiazolyl)imino‐1,3‐thiazole derivative 19. The newly synthesized compounds were confirmed from their elemental analyses and spectral data.
Circuit models of multiconductor shielded cables: incident plane wave effect
Authors: Mohamed Saih , Hicham Rouijaa , Ghammaz Abdelilah
Published: April 2015

The present study examines the variation effects of incident plane wave on multiconductor shielded cables in frequency domains using Branin's method, which is referred to as the method of characteristics. The model operates in frequency and time domains with linear and nonlinear loads, respectively, which allows it to be easily introduced into circuit simulators, such as SPICE, Sabar, and ESACAP. Two examples are studied: coaxial shielded cables and shielded cables with two parallel wires (i.e., twinax cables), and they are both excited by an incident plane wave. The results obtained by this method are in agreement with those obtained by other methods. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modulation of 14C‐labeled glucose metabolism by zinc during aluminium induced neurodegeneration
Authors: Singla Neha , Dhawan D.K.
Published: April 2015

Aluminium (Al) is one of the most prominent metals in the environment and is responsible for causing several neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease. On the other hand, zinc (Zn) is an essential micronutrient that is involved in regulating brain development and function. The present study investigates the protective potential of Zn in the uptake of 14C‐labeled amino acids and glucose and their turnover in rat brain slices during Al intoxication. Male Sprague Dawley rats (140–160 g) were divided into four different groups: normal control, Al treated (100 mg/kg body weight/day via oral gavage), Zn treated (227 mg/liter in drinking water), and Al + Zn treated. Radiorespirometric assay revealed an increase in glucose turnover after Al exposure that was attenuated after Zn treatment. Furthermore, the uptake of 14C‐labeled glucose was increased after Al treatment but was appreciably decreased upon Zn supplementation. In addition, the uptakes of 14C‐lysine, 14C‐leucine, and 14C‐aspartic acid were also found to be elevated following Al exposure but were decreased after Zn treatment. Al treatment also caused alterations in the neurohistoarchitecture of the brain, which were improved after Zn coadministration. Therefore, the present study suggests that Zn provides protection against Al‐induced neurotoxicity by regulating glucose and amino acid uptake in rats, indicating that Zn could be a potential candidate for the treatment of various neurodegenerative disorders. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Resorcinol–formaldehyde xerogel as a micro‐solid‐phase extraction sorbent for the determination of herbicides in aquatic environmental samples
Authors: Es‐haghi Ali , Zare Maryam , Piri‐Moghadam Hamed , Bagheri Habib
Published: April 2015

In this study, organic aerogels were synthesized by the sol–gel polycondensation of mixed cresol with formaldehyde in a slightly basic aqueous solution. Carbon aerogels and xerogels are generated by pyrolysis of organic aerogels. The novel sol–gel‐based micro‐solid‐phase extraction sorbent, resorcinol–formaldehyde xerogel, was employed for preconcentration of some selected herbicides. Three herbicides of the aryloxyphenoxypropionate group, clodinafop‐propargyl, haloxyfop‐etotyl, and fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl, were extracted from aqueous samples by micro‐solid‐phase extraction and subsequently determined by gas chromatography with mass spectrometry. The effect of different parameters influencing the extraction efficiency of these herbicides including sample flow rate, sample volume, and extraction time were investigated and optimized. Under optimum conditions, linear calibration curves in the range of 0.10–500 ng/L with R2 > 0.99 were obtained. The relative standard deviation at 50 μg/L concentration level was lower than 10% (n = 5) and detection limits were between 0.05 and 0.20 μg/L. The proposed method was successfully applied to the sampling and extraction of herbicides from Zayanderood and paddy water samples.
Aluminium AlSi12 alloy matrix composites reinforced by mullite porous preforms
Authors: Tomiczek B. , Kujawa M. , Matula G. , Kremzer M. , Tański T. , Dobrzański L. A.
Published: April 2015

The purpose of this work was to elaborate the method of manufacturing of composite materials based on porous mullite preforms infiltrated by AlSi12 aluminium alloy. The process of manufacturing the metal matrix composites by pressure infiltration is the subject of many scientific studies because it is characterized by high efficiency and allows for accurate mapping of elements of shape and surface of elements, while the structure and properties of the composites are determined by ceramic skeletons. The eutectic aluminium alloy AlSi12 was used as a matrix while as a reinforcement were used ceramic preforms fabricated by sintering of halloysite nanotubes (HNT) powder with an addition of carbon fibres as pore forming agents. The observations of the structure were made on the light microscope and in the scanning electron microscope. The developed technology of manufacturing of composite materials with the pore ceramic mullite infiltration ensures the expected structure and can be used in practice. The composite materials made by the developed method can find application as an alternative material for elements fabricated from light metal matrix composite material reinforced with ceramic fibrous preforms.
Crack propagation characteristics of particulate reinforced composites using digital image correlation
Authors: Seo Bo Hwi , Kim Jae Hoon , Park Jae Beom , Jung Gyoo Dong
Published: April 2015

Particulate reinforced composites (PRC) have been widely used in engineering fields such as automobile, aerospace and construction industries. This material is composed of metallic particles and a polymer matrix. For the safe application of particulate reinforced composites, it is important to estimate the crack propagation behavior and the tendency of fracture. Especially, particulate reinforced composites for aerospace industry is used to get propulsion as solid fuel and it should be cautiously applied to avoid crack problems. In this study, particulate reinforced composites is manufactured as a single cracked sheet specimen. Crack propagation tests were conducted under constant strain rates at various temperatures to estimate the effect of temperature and strain rates on the crack propagation behavior. Also, digital image correlation is used to measure strain fields on the surface of specimens during the tests. This method can evaluate the strain contour under non‐contact condition. Then test results are discussed in the framework of fracture mechanics.
Fundamental research on power train systems for electric vehicles
Authors: Kim K. J. , Lee Y.‐C. , Park J.‐H.
Published: April 2015

The case of an electric vehicle, where a motor and a battery system can be substituted for an engine and a transmission system, comprises a very fascinating power source. However, due to the low power performance of the motor system, the weight reduction of the electric vehicle for the increase of the efficiency is necessary. For the research of the new vehicle, the benchmarking of developments leading companies about the electric vehicle was considerably surveyed first. Then the CAE (computer aided engineering) simulation of the full vehicle (Metro by Geo Co.) model was performed. Among these systems, as the weight of the batteries are comparably high (200 ∼ 300 kg or over), the problem of the safety performance can occur where the motor and the battery are situated in the vehicle location (in the front engine room, center floor or rear trunk position). In addition, the reinforcement degree can differ following as the motor and the battery position in the vehicle in order to satisfy the vehicle safety and it can induce the weight variation of the vehicle. Therefore, the effect of strength performance on the layout of the power train system (mainly battery) was clarified by using CAE (computer aided engineering) and the optimized position of the power train system considering weight balancing of the electric vehicle was suggested in the present study.
Vibro‐acoustic analysis of post‐impacted sandwich panels
Authors: Yetmez M. , Kocer L. , Erdogan H. , Demirci I.
Published: April 2015

In this study, the vibro‐acoustic behaviour of centrally damaged honeycomb cored sandwich panels is investigated experimentally. For this purpose, experimental evaluations are completed by the followings: (I) honeycomb sandwich panels with two different core materials and the same skin materials are considered, (II) low‐velocity impact measurements with three different projectiles are obtained, (III) vibration and vibro‐acoustic tests are performed to present the vibration characteristics of the post‐impacted sandwich panels with two different boundary conditions. Effect of core material and projectile geometry on modal and sound characteristics is examined. The results are given in tabular and graphical forms.
Measurement of hole damage characteristics in the glass fibre reinforced plastic composite using digital image correlation technique
Authors: Huh Y.‐H. , Kim J. , Hong S. , Park J. H.
Published: April 2015

Characterization of the strain behaviour around the matrix and fibre holes in unidirectional glas fibre reinforced plastic composite laminates was carried out. The longitudinal and transverse strain fields around holes machined in tensile laminate specimen were determined by measurement of full‐field strain distributions during tensile loads using the digital image correlation (DIC) technique. From these measurements, the strain concentration around the holes and strain gradient along the hole section were quantitatively determined and the strain fields during the failure evolvement process could be characterized. It was revealed that the longitudinal strain concentration of the matrix hole was relatively greater than that of the fiber hole, while the compressive transverse strain near the fiber hole was slightly larger than that near the matrix hole. Furthermore, it was found that the normalized peak strains, εyy / ε∞, for both matrix and fiber holes were increased with increasing applied stress and that the strain for the fiber hole was slightly lower than that for the matrix hole. The subsequent failure processes for glas fibre reinforced plastic composite (GFRP) UD (uni‐directional) composite specimen with a hole could be visualized and monitored by acquiring digital image correlation images.
Design of a subframe to integrate an electric drivetrain in existing vehicles
Authors: Hitzler L. , Merkel M. , Freytag P.
Published: April 2015

The global efforts on CO2 emission reduction reflect the importance of a change in personal mobility. Nowadays there is a need in the automotive sector to focus more and more on ecological energy sources. One key to approach this intention is to transfer the modular manufacturing, as known in the conventional car design, to the design of electric powered vehicles. Taking into account that renewable energy sources, for example hydrogen, green electric power or fuel produced out of plants, are able to be combined with an electrical drivetrain, which is able to handle all of them in once. The impressive opportunity is that all those energy sources have a commonality. All of them can be used to produce electrical power onboard. The easiest way seems to be the storage of electrical power in rechargeable batteries; however there are various different options. Hydrogen can be utilized in a fuel cell to produce electrical power and every hydrocarbon fuel can also be used to power a fuel cell in combination with a previous steam reformation. Considering hydrocarbon fuel, there is further the alternative to burn it in combustion engines and to combine it with a generator. The perspective of this short excursus is that it does not depend on the chosen energy resource, because there is always the option to use the energy, to power an electrical drivetrain.

This assumption leads to the encouragement to develop a modular and scalable electric driven axle, which is easily adaptable to ensure a compatibility with a brought field of vehicles.
Finite element simulation of arrays of hollow sphere structures
Authors: Amani Y. , Öchsner A.
Published: April 2015

The numerical simulation of a repetitive model of a cellular metal is developed for fundamental investigation of the elastic behaviour of hollow sphere structures. Syntactic and partial morphologies of simple cubic configurations of hollow sphere structures are prescribed under boundary conditions corresponding to unit cells and periodic hollow sphere lattices. The obtained results are plotted as diagrams of Young's modulus versus relative density and allow to explain the behaviour of hollow sphere structures independent of their basic elastic properties.