bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Muscles of Chondrichthyan Paired Appendages: Comparison With Osteichthyans, Deconstruction of the Fore–Hindlimb Serial Homology Dogma, and New Insights on the Evolution of the Vertebrate Neck
Authors: Diogo R. , Ziermann J.M.
Published: September 2014

Here we present the first study comparing all the paired appendages muscles of representatives of each major extant gnathostome group. We address a crucial and enigmatic question in evolutionary and comparative anatomy: Why are the pelvic and pectoral appendages of gnathostomes, and particularly of tetrapods, in general so similar to each other? We argue that an integrative analysis of the new myological data and the information from the literature contradicts the idea that the forelimbs and hindlimbs are serial homologues. The data show that many of the strikingly similar fore‐ and hindlimb muscles of extant tetrapods evolved independently in each appendage because the ancestors of extant gnathostomes and osteichthyans only had an adductor and an abductor in each fin. Therefore, these data contradict the idea that at least some muscles present in the tetrapod fore‐ and hindlimbs were already present in some form in the first fishes with pectoral and pelvic appendages, as the result of an ancestral duplication of the paired appendages leading to a true serial homology. The origin of the pectoral girdle was instead likely related to head evolution, as illustrated by the cucullaris of gnathostomes such as chondrichthyans inserting onto both the branchial arches and pectoral girdle. Only later in evolution the cucullaris became differentiated into the levatores arcuum branchialium and protractor pectoralis, which gave rise to the amniote neck muscles trapezius and sternocleidomastoideus. These changes therefore contributed to an evolutionary trend toward a greater anatomical and functional independence of the pectoral girdle from head movements. Anat Rec, 298:513–530, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The protective effects of Acanthus ilicifolius alkaloid A and its derivatives on pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokines in rats with hepatic fibrosis
Authors: Wai Kyi Kyi , Liang Yinge , Zhou Lijuan , Cai Liping , Liang Chunhong , Liu Lin , Lin Xing , Wu Huahui , Lin Jun
Published: September 2014

This study was designed to investigate the protective effects of Acanthus ilicifolius alkaloid A [4‐hydroxy‐2‐benzoxazolone (HBOA)] and its acetylated derivatives including 4‐acetoxy‐2‐benzoxazolone (TC‐2) and 3‐acetyl‐4‐acetoxy‐2‐benzoxazolone (TC‐3) on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)‐induced liver fibrosis in rats. Sprague–Dawley rats were given CCl4 twice per week for 8 weeks to induce liver fibrosis. Then, they were treated with HBOA, TC‐2, and TC‐3 daily for 4 weeks, respectively. The serum indicators including total protein (TP), albumin (Alb), globulin, hyaluronic acid (HA), and laminin (LN) were measured by commercial kits. The messenger ribonucleic acid expression of adiponectin, peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ (PPAR‐γ), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) and Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) was determined by reverse‐transcriptase ‐PCR. The proteins of adiponectin, TGF‐β1, α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA), and TLR4 were also detected by the immunohistochemical assay. The results showed that HBOA, TC‐2, and TC‐3 significantly attenuated the fibrotic degree induced by CCl4 as evidenced by higher levels of TP, Alb, adiponectin, and PPAR‐γ, which in turn decreased the proliferation of hepatic stellate cells. Moreover, those drugs markedly decreased the levels of HA, LN, TNF‐α, IL‐6, TGF‐β1, α‐SMA, and TLR4. Our study indicates that HBOA, TC‐2, and TC‐3 have beneficial effects against liver fibrosis, and the mechanisms may be related to the inhibition of inflammatory response.
How do environmental factors influence life cycles and development? An experimental framework for early‐diverging metazoans
Authors: Bosch Thomas C. G. , Adamska Maja , Augustin René , Domazet‐Loso Tomislav , Foret Sylvain , Fraune Sebastian , Funayama Noriko , Grasis Juris , Hamada Mayuko , Hatta Masayuki , Hobmayer Bert , Kawai Kotoe , Klimovich Alexander , Manuel Michael , Shinzato Chuya , Technau Uli , Yum Seungshic , Miller David J.
Published: September 2014

Ecological developmental biology (eco‐devo) explores the mechanistic relationships between the processes of individual development and environmental factors. Recent studies imply that some of these relationships have deep evolutionary origins, and may even pre‐date the divergences of the simplest extant animals, including cnidarians and sponges. Development of these early diverging metazoans is often sensitive to environmental factors, and these interactions occur in the context of conserved signaling pathways and mechanisms of tissue homeostasis whose detailed molecular logic remain elusive. Efficient methods for transgenesis in cnidarians together with the ease of experimental manipulation in cnidarians and sponges make them ideal models for understanding causal relationships between environmental factors and developmental mechanisms. Here, we identify major questions at the interface between animal evolution and development and outline a road map for research aimed at identifying the mechanisms that link environmental factors to developmental mechanisms in early diverging metazoans.

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Photo and thermoluminescence of KMgSO4F: Ce and :Mn phosphors
Authors: Poddar Anuradha , Gedam S. C. , Dhoble S. J.
Published: September 2014

KMgSO4F:Ce and KMgSO4F:Mn phosphors were prepared by a wet chemical method and studied for their photoluminescence (PL) and thermoluminescence (TL) characteristics. PL emission of KMgSO4F:Ce peaked at around 440 nm for the excitation at 377 nm due to 5d → 4f transition, while KMgSO4F:Mn had a peak at 540 nm for an excitation at 363 nm and 247 nm due to 4T1g → 6A1g transition. The phosphors also showed good thermoluminescence characteristics when they were exposed to γ‐rays at a 5 Gy dose at the rate of 0.36 kGyh−1. KMgSO4F:Ce exhibited a single thermoluminescence (TL) peak at around 167 °C and KMgSO4F:Mn also exhibited a single TL peak at around 177 °C. Possible trapping parameters such as order of kinetics (b), the geometrical factor (μg), the frequency factor (s) and the activation energy were also evaluated by Chen's half width method. This article discusses fundamental PL and TL characteristics in inorganic fluoride material activated by Ce3+ and Mn2+ ions and prepared by a wet chemical method. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of FDG‐PET imaging as a prognostic marker of outcome in primary mediastinal B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Nagle Sarah J. , Chong Elise A. , Chekol Seble , Shah Nirav N. , Nasta Sunita D. , Glatstein Eli , Plastaras John P. , Torigian Drew A. , Schuster Stephen J. , Svoboda Jakub
Published: September 2014

Primary mediastinal B‐cell lymphoma (PMBL) is a subtype of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) that arises in the mediastinum from B‐cells of thymic origin. Optimal management of patients with PMBL remains controversial. The present study evaluates outcomes of 27 PMBL patients treated with R‐CHOP with or without radiation therapy (RT). It investigates the role of both interim and posttreatment fluorodeoxyglucose‐positron emission tomography (FDG‐PET) as prognostic markers of outcome. Additionally, it assesses postprogression therapies in the six patients who had progressive disease. At a median follow‐up of 41.5 months (range: 6.1–147.2 months), OS was 95.5% (95% CI = 71.9–99.4) and progression‐free survival (PFS) was 70.4% (95% CI = 49.4–83.9) for the entire cohort. The negative predictive values of interim and posttreatment FDG‐PET scans were both 100%. Patients who failed initial therapy and were treated with salvage regimens and autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) all achieved and maintained CR. PMBL patients can achieve excellent outcomes with minimal toxicities when treated with R‐CHOP with or without RT. Negative interim and negative posttreatment FDG‐PET results identified PMBL patients who achieve long‐term remission. However, the significance of both positive interim and positive posttreatment FDG‐PET results needs to be better defined. Those who failed initial therapy were successfully treated with salvage regimens and ASCT.
Can we predict postprocedural paravalvular leak after Edwards SAPIEN transcatheter aortic valve implantation?
Authors: Watanabe Yusuke , Lefèvre Thierry , Arai Takahide , Hayashida Kentaro , Bouvier Erik , Hovasse Thomas , Romano Mauro , Chevalier Bernard , Garot Philippe , Donzeau‐Gouge Patrick , Farge Arnaud , Cormier Bertrand , Morice Marie‐Claude
Published: September 2014

Background

Postprocedural paravalvular leak (PVL) ≥ 2 has been shown to be associated with worse outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). This study sought to identify predictive factors of postprocedural PVL ≥ 2 after TAVI with the Edwards valve.

Methods and Results

A total of 176 patients with Edwards TAVI (aged 83.4 ± 7.4 years, Logistic EuroSCORE [the Logistic European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation] 18.8 ± 12.0, transfemoral 54.5%) who had preprocedural multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) were studied. A PVL ≥ 2 was observed in 12.5% of cases. By multivariate analysis, only the valve calcification index (VCI) defined as aortic root calcification volume/body surface area (odds ratio [OR] = 1.002, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.001–1.004, P = 0.006) and the valve diameter/the calculated average annulus diameter (CAAD) by MDCT (OR = 0.683, 95% CI = 0.474–0.984, P = 0.041) were identified as independent predictors of postprocedural PVL ≥ 2. A score predicting postprocedural PVL ≥ 2 (PVL score) was determined by allotting one point when the valve diameter/CAAD ratio was <1.055 and one point when VCI was >418.4 mm3/m2, and summing all points accrued. Area under receiver‐operator characteristic curves of PVL score was 0.71 (95% CI = 0.59–0.83, P < 0.01). The incidence of PVL ≥ 2 was 5.3% in patients with a PVL score of 0, 11.8% for a PVL score of 1 and 37.5% for a PVL score of 2.

Conclusions

The only predictors of PVL ≥ 2 after Edwards valve implantation are the valve diameter/CAAD and VCI. The PVL score could prove to be an excellent tool for predicting the risk of PVL. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Coal Oxidation under Mild Conditions: Current Status and Applications
Authors: Yu Jianglong , Jiang Yu , Tahmasebi Arash , Han Yanna , Li Xianchun , Lucas John , Wall Terry
Published: September 2014

A comprehensive overview of coal oxidation methods under mild conditions is provided, including oxidation with oxygen, ozone, ruthenium ion catalysis, oxidizing acid, electrolysis, sodium hypochlorite, and hydrogen peroxide. The changes in chemical structure of coal during oxidation, the mechanism of different types of oxidation methods, and the possible applications of oxidation products are summarized. Comparison of these oxidation methods demonstrated that hydrogen peroxide and sodium hypochlorite oxidation of coal under mild conditions are the most suitable methods to study the molecular structure of coal and to obtain high‐value organic chemicals. Applications of different analytical techniques for determination and quantification of products and coal structures are also reviewed.
Controlling the Size and Morphology of Supramolecular Assemblies of Viologen–Resorcin[4]arene Cavitands
Authors: Kashapov Ruslan R. , Kharlamov Sergey V. , Sultanova Elza D. , Mukhitova Rezeda K. , Kudryashova Yuliana R. , Zakharova Lucia Y. , Ziganshina Albina Y. , Konovalov Alexander I.
Published: September 2014

A novel class of self‐assembling nanoparticles is formed with viologen–resorcin[4]arene cavitands; the association model is strongly controlled by their hydrophobicity. Interestingly, the cavitand assemblies are designed through click chemistry to form self‐assembled noncovalently connected aggregates through counterion displacement. The iodide and benzoate ions are utilized as strongly polarizable counterions to induce cavitand self‐assembly. The counterion‐mediated decrease in hydrophilicity of the viologen–resorcin[4]arenes is the underlying trigger to induce particle formation. These particles can be used as nanocontainers and find their applications in delivery systems.
A Computational Study on a Strategy for Isolating a Stable Cyclopentadienyl Cation
Authors: Iversen Kalon J. , Wilson David J. D. , Dutton Jason L.
Published: September 2014

A computational study has been carried out to examine the feasibility of generating a simple monocyclic cyclopentadienyl cation that may be sufficiently stable to isolate and handle at ambient temperatures. Using judicious placement of electron‐withdrawing groups (CF3) about the ring we have identified a derivative that may approach the stability of isolobal (and isolatable) borole rings, as evaluated by HOMO–LUMO and singlet–triplet gaps. These Cp+ derivatives may therefore be an attractive target for synthetic isolation.
Modeling the Interaction between Dendrimers and Nucleic Acids: a Molecular Perspective through Hierarchical Scales
Authors: Pavan Giovanni M.
Published: September 2014

Cationic dendrimers are promising nanocarriers for gene delivery thanks to their ability to establish strong interactions with oppositely charged strands of DNA and siRNA and to promote their aggregation. The binding between dendrimers and nucleic acids is typically a complex process that involves various types of interactions at different scales. To design efficient dendrimer candidates for DNA and siRNA binding it is necessary to have a detailed understanding of their interactions with oligonucleotides in the solvent. Molecular simulation can support experimental work, providing a privileged point of view on the aggregation process. This Minireview discusses recent computational efforts to unravel dendrimer–oligonucleotide binding, and proposes a perspective of the multiscale aggregation process based on hierarchy and on the transformations of the interacting “molecular units” following intermolecular interactions.
Dyadic psychosocial intervention for advanced lung cancer patients and their family caregivers: Results of a randomized pilot trial
Authors: Badr Hoda , Smith Cardinale B. , Goldstein Nathan E. , Gomez Jorge E. , Redd William H.
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND

Advanced lung cancer (LC) patients and their families have reported low self‐efficacy for self‐care/caregiving and high rates of distress, yet few programs exist to address their supportive care needs during treatment. This pilot study examined the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a 6‐session, telephone‐based dyadic psychosocial intervention that was developed for advanced LC patients and their caregivers. The program was grounded in self‐determination theory (SDT), which emphasizes the importance of competence (self‐efficacy), autonomy (sense of choice/volition), and relatedness (sense of belonging/connection) for psychological functioning. The primary outcomes were patient and caregiver psychological functioning (depression/anxiety) and caregiver burden. The secondary outcomes were the SDT constructs of competence, autonomy, and relatedness.

METHODS

Thirty‐nine advanced LC patients who were within 1 month of treatment initiation (baseline) and their caregivers (51% spouses/partners) completed surveys and were randomized to the intervention or usual medical care. Eight weeks after baseline, they completed follow‐up surveys.

RESULTS

Solid recruitment (60%) and low attrition rates demonstrated feasibility. Strong program evaluations (mean, 8.6/10) and homework completion rates (88%) supported acceptability. Participants receiving the intervention evidenced significant improvements (P < .0001) in depression, anxiety, and caregiver burden in comparison with usual medical care. Large effect sizes (d ≥ 1.2) favoring the intervention were also found for patient and caregiver competence and relatedness and for caregiver autonomous motivation for providing care.

CONCLUSION

These findings support intervention feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy. By empowering families with the skills to coordinate care and meet the challenges of LC together, this intervention holds great promise for improving palliative/supportive care services in cancer. Cancer 2015;121:150–158. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Patterns of psychiatric medication use among nationally representative long‐term cancer survivors and controls
Authors: Braun Ilana M. , Rao Sowmya R. , Meyer Fremonta L. , Fedele Giuseppe
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND

Investigations of long‐term cancer survivors (LTCS) indicate that this population is not appreciably different from cancer‐naive peers with respect to several neuropsychiatric domains. The current study sought to determine whether differences in psychiatric medication use might help to explain the negative findings.

METHODS

In a nationally representative sample, 5692 subjects were queried for cancer history, psychiatric diagnoses, and psychotropic medication use. The LTCS were defined as those individuals who were ≥5 years from diagnosis and whose cancer was in remission or cured. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were obtained from multivariable logistic regression models evaluating the relationship between cancer status and use of psychiatric medications. The interaction between case/control status and psychiatric diagnoses was also tested in a logistic regression model to predict psychotropic medication use.

RESULTS

A total of 225 participants met the criteria for LTCS and 3953 met the criteria for cancer‐naive controls (CNC). The LTCS were no more likely than CNC to carry a psychiatric diagnosis. Despite the LTCS reporting somewhat greater psychotropic medication use compared with the CNC (28.8% vs 22.3%), unadjusted and adjusted differences did not reach statistical significance, possibly due to sample size. The interaction between case/control status and carrying a psychiatric diagnosis was not found to be significantly associated with receiving a psychiatric medication.

CONCLUSIONS

LTCS and CNC demonstrated comparable rates of psychiatric prescription medication use. The relationship between taking a psychiatric medication and carrying a psychiatric diagnosis was not found to be significantly different between the case and control groups. These findings contribute to an emerging hypothesis that in general LTCS are not a particularly psychiatrically vulnerable group. Cancer 2015;121:132–138. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Topographically distinct visual and olfactory inputs to the mushroom body in the Swallowtail butterfly, Papilio xuthus
Authors: Kinoshita Michiyo , Shimohigasshi Miki , Tominaga Yoshiya , Arikawa Kentaro , Homberg Uwe
Published: September 2014

Papilio butterflies depend highly on visual information in their flower‐foraging behavior. The retina of Papilio xuthus has been studied well, whereas the visual system in the brain is poorly understood. By investigating outputs from the optic lobe to the central brain, we found that the mushroom body of P. xuthus receives prominent direct inputs from the optic lobe in addition to olfactory inputs. The mushroom body consists of three components: the calyx, the pedunculus, and the lobes. The calyx is further subdivided into two cup‐shaped primary calyces and an accessory calyx. Each primary calyx consists of three concentric subareas, the inner zone, the outer zone, and the rim of the outer zone. Dextran injections into the optic lobe, the calyx, or the antennal lobe revealed three visual inputs and one olfactory input into the calyx. The visual inputs originate from the medulla, the lobula, and a newly identified neuropil, the ventral lobe of the lobula. All visual inputs first innervate the accessory calyx, and the two lobula inputs further spread their processes through the inner zone and the rim of the outer zone of the primary calyces. Visual inputs from the medulla and the ventral lobe of the lobula collect light information from ventral eye regions, suggesting a role in visual target detection rather than sky compass orientation. In contrast to visual inputs, olfactory inputs innervate only the calycal outer zone. The multisensory inputs to the mushroom bodies in P. xuthus are probably related to their flower‐foraging behavior. J. Comp. Neurol. 523:162–182, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Scalable Integration of Li5FeO4 towards Robust, High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Hybrid Capacitors
Authors: Park Min‐Sik , Lim Young‐Geun , Hwang Soo Min , Kim Jung Ho , Kim Jeom‐Soo , Dou Shi Xue , Cho Jaephil , Kim Young‐Jun
Published: September 2014

Lithium‐ion hybrid capacitors have attracted great interest due to their high specific energy relative to conventional electrical double‐layer capacitors. Nevertheless, the safety issue still remains a drawback for lithium‐ion capacitors in practical operational environments because of the use of metallic lithium. Herein, single‐phase Li5FeO4 with an antifluorite structure that acts as an alternative lithium source (instead of metallic lithium) is employed and its potential use for lithium‐ion capacitors is verified. Abundant Li+ amounts can be extracted from Li5FeO4 incorporated in the positive electrode and efficiently doped into the negative electrode during the first electrochemical charging. After the first Li+ extraction, Li+ does not return to the Li5FeO4 host structure and is steadily involved in the electrochemical reactions of the negative electrode during subsequent cycling. Various electrochemical and structural analyses support its superior characteristics for use as a promising lithium source. This versatile approach can yield a sufficient Li+‐doping efficiency of >90 % and improved safety as a result of the removal of metallic lithium from the cell.
Immobilized Iron Oxide Nanoparticles as Stable and Reusable Catalysts for Hydrazine‐Mediated Nitro Reductions in Continuous Flow
Authors: Moghaddam Mojtaba Mirhosseini , Pieber Bartholomäus , Glasnov Toma , Kappe C. Oliver
Published: September 2014

An experimentally easy to perform method for the generation of alumina‐supported Fe3O4 nanoparticles [(6±1) nm size, 0.67 wt %]and the use of this material in hydrazine‐mediated heterogeneously catalyzed reductions of nitroarenes to anilines under batch and continuous‐flow conditions is presented. The bench‐stable, reusable nano‐Fe3O4@Al2O3 catalyst can selectively reduce functionalized nitroarenes at 1 mol % catalyst loading by using a 20 mol % excess of hydrazine hydrate in an elevated temperature regime (150 °C, reaction time 2–6 min in batch). For continuous‐flow processing, the catalyst material is packed into dedicated cartridges and used in a commercially available high‐temperature/‐pressure flow device. In continuous mode, reaction times can be reduced to less than 1 min at 150 °C (30 bar back pressure) in a highly intensified process. The nano‐Fe3O4@Al2O3 catalyst demonstrated stable reduction of nitrobenzene (0.5 M in MeOH) for more than 10 h on stream at a productivity of 30 mmol h−1 (0.72 mol per day). Importantly, virtually no leaching of the catalytically active material could be observed by inductively coupled plasma MS monitoring.
Proposal of FCbT Considering Closed‐Loop Stability at Each Parameter Update
Authors: Yubai Kazuhiro , Fujii Hiroki , Hirai Junji
Published: September 2014

We propose a controller tuning method that considers closed‐loop stability after controller tuning without a mathematical plant model. We propose fictitious correlation‐based tuning that yields reasonable controller parameters using a small amount of input and output data. However, closed‐loop stability after controller tuning is not guaranteed in this approach. In this investigation, we impose a stability constraint on the parameter update in order to maintain closed‐loop stability at each parameter update. Further, by introducing particle swarm optimization instead of the Gauss–Newton method to solve the constrained nonlinear optimization problem, the initial value dependence is considerably reduced. The effectiveness of the proposed method is confirmed by a numerical example and experimental results.
Effect of PV Output and Load Power Forecast Error on Operation Design of PV System with Storage Battery
Authors: Hayashi Takayoshi , Shimoo Takahiro , Wakao Shinji
Published: September 2014

In the past, we have proposed battery operations in a photovoltaic (PV) system using PV output and load power forecasts. In the proposed method, we utilized multiobjective optimization for a residential area model that includes a large number of PV systems with storage batteries. To practically demonstrate that the proposed operation effectively improves economic and environmental efficiency, it is indispensable to evaluate the effects of forecast error on the operation design of a PV system with storage battery. In this paper, we propose a method for evaluating the robustness of battery operation taking account of the statistical characteristics of forecast errors. Some numerical examples, which show the validity of the proposed method, are also presented.
Synthesis of a Renewable Oxygenated Diesel Additive in an Adsorptive Reactor
Authors: Graça Nuno S. , Delgado Aida E. , Constantino Dânia S. M. , Pereira Carla S. M , Rodrigues Alírio E.
Published: September 2014

The synthesis of the acetal 1,1‐diethoxybutane (DEB) was studied by the first time in a fixed‐bed adsorptive reactor packed with the commercial ion‐exchange resin Amberlyst 47. The adsorption equilibrium was investigated at 30 °C by frontal chromatography with nonreactive binary pairs. The experimental determination of DEB viscosity, the hydrodynamic study of the fixed‐bed column, and the study of the butanal/water liquid–liquid equilibrium were performed. DEB production and column regeneration were performed in the fixed‐bed adsorptive reactor. Simulation results showed the feasibility of the synthesis of DEB in a simulated moving‐bed adsorptive reactor to obtain a conversion and purities in both extract and raffinate above 97 % with a productivity of 10.04 kg L−1 d−1 and a desorbent consumption of 4.42 L kg−1.
Amino acid sequence of the AhR1 ligand-binding domain predicts avian sensitivity to dioxin like compounds: In vivo verification in European starlings
Authors: Eng Margaret L. , Elliott John E. , Jones Stephanie P. , Williams Tony D. , Drouillard Ken G. , Kennedy Sean W.
Published: September 2014

Research has demonstrated that the sensitivity of avian species to the embyrotoxic effects of dioxin-like compounds can be predicted by the amino acid identities at two key sites within the ligand-binding domain of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor 1 (AhR1). The domestic chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) has been established as a highly sensitive species to the toxic effects of dioxin-like compounds. Results from genotyping and in vitro assays predict that the European starling (Sturnus vulgaris) is also highly sensitive to dioxin-like compound toxicity. The objective of the present study was to test that prediction in vivo. To do this, we used egg injections in field nesting starlings with 3,3′,4,4′,5-pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB-126), a dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyl. Eggs were dosed with either the vehicle control or 1 of 5 doses (1.4, 7.1, 15.9, 32.1, and 52.9 ng PCB-126/g egg). A dose-dependent increase in embryo mortality occurred, and the median lethal dose (LD50; 95% confidence interval [CI]) was 5.61 (2.33–9.08) ng/g. Hepatic CYP1A4/5 messenger RNA (mRNA) expression in hatchlings also increased in a dose-dependent manner, with CYP1A4 being more induced than CYP1A5. No effect of dose on morphological measures was seen, and we did not observe any overt malformations. These results indicate that, other than the chicken, the European starling is the most sensitive species to the effects of PCB-126 on avian embryo mortality reported to date, which supports the prediction of relative sensitivity to dioxin-like compounds based on amino acid sequence of the AhR1. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:2753–2758. © 2014 SETAC
Test–Retest Reliability of Capability Measurement in the UK General Population
Authors: Al‐Janabi Hareth , Flynn Terry N. , Peters Tim J. , Bryan Stirling , Coast Joanna
Published: September 2014

Although philosophically attractive, it may be difficult, in practice, to measure individuals' capabilities (what they areableto do in their lives) as opposed to their functionings (what they actually do). To examine whether capability information could be reliably self‐reported, we administered a measure of self‐reported capability (the Investigating Choice Experiments Capability Measure for Adults, ICECAP‐A) on two occasions, 2 weeks apart, alongside a self‐reported health measure (the EuroQol Five Dimensional Questionnaire with 3 levels, EQ‐5D‐3L). We found that respondents were able to report capabilities with a moderate level of consistency, although somewhat less reliably than their health status. The more socially orientated nature of some of the capability questions may account for the difference. © 2014 The Authors Health Economics Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Discrete Molecular Catalysts for Methane Functionalization
Authors: Gunsalus Niles J. , Konnick Michael M. , Hashiguchi Brian G. , Periana Roy A.
Published: September 2014

The implementation of selective, energy efficient, direct alkane oxidation chemistry could lead to a new paradigm in materials and energy technologies for the 21st century that is environmentally and economically superior to current processes. Such processes would allow the vast reserves of natural gas to be directly employed as feedstocks for fuels and chemicals. Molecular catalysts that activate and functionalize the CH bonds of unactivated hydrocarbons are of particular interest, from both a scientific and economic viewpoint. This results from the unique properties of these engineered materials, which allow them to carry out oxidative hydrocarbon functionalization, with high atom and energy efficiency, under relatively mild conditions. Despite the large body of work on the activation of CH bonds over the last three decades, relatively few catalyst systems based on this approach present a viable route to functionalize hydrocarbons. This dilemma is largely due to the large gaps in our fundamental knowledge to allow rational design of such catalysts. Addressed in this paper are some of the key challenges and approaches to the de novo design of alkane functionalization molecular catalysts based on the CH activation reaction, with an emphasis on our own research.
Ion Transport in Sub‐10 nm Nanofluidic Channels: Synthesis, Measurement, and Modeling
Authors: Hwang Junho , Daiguji Hirofumi
Published: September 2014

Recent advances in nanofabrication, measurement, and analysis techniques of nanofluidic systems have allowed ion transport to be systematically explored in narrow, confined channels with dimensions of less than about 10 nm. In such small dimensions, anomalous ion transport can be observed. This review describes several unique ion‐transport phenomena recently reported in sub‐10 nm fluidic channels and provides an introduction to recently developed nanofabrication techniques to create sub‐10 nm nanochannels by both top‐down and bottom‐up approaches.
Dual action antimicrobial surfaces via combined nitric oxide and silver release
Authors: Storm Wesley L. , Johnson Justin A. , Worley Brittany V. , Slomberg Danielle L. , Schoenfisch Mark H.
Published: September 2014

Recent research has demonstrated that silver sulfadiazine and small molecule nitric oxide (NO) donors kill a number of bacterial species synergistically in solution‐based assays. Herein, we report on multilayered silica‐based xerogels that release both NO and silver. Release of each agent was achieved by exposing amine‐modified xerogels to high pressures of NO, and doping silver nitrate (AgNO3) into an alkyl‐silane xerogel. Total achievable releases were 3.5 μmol cm−2 and 1.7 ppm for NO and Ag+, respectively, with release of each agent controlled independent of the other. The NO/Ag+‐releasing coating reduced bacterial adhesion and exhibited greater‐than‐additive killing against both Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. In contrast, cytotoxicity assays against L929 fibroblasts suggest that the combination does not cause greater‐than‐additive killing to mammalian cells. Such materials may prove useful in the design of biomedical devices prone to infection such as bone and surgical screws. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 103A: 1974–1984, 2015.
Micropatterned coculture of vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells on layered electrospun fibrous mats toward blood vessel engineering
Authors: Li Huinan , Liu Yaowen , Lu Jinfu , Wei Jiaojun , Li Xiaohong
Published: September 2014

A major challenge in vascular engineering is the establishment of proper microenvironment to guide the spatial organization, growth, and extracellular matrix (ECM) productions of cells found in blood vessels. In the current study, micropatterned fibrous mats with distinct ridges and grooves of different width were created to load smooth muscle cells (SMCs), which were assembled by stacking on vascular endothelial cell (EC)‐loaded flat fibrous mats to mimic the in vivo‐like organized structure of blood vessels. SMCs were mainly distributed in the ridges, and aligned fibers in the patterned regions led to the formation of elongated cell bodies, intense actin filaments, and expressions of collagen I and α‐smooth muscle actin in a parallel direction with fibers. ECs spread over the flat fibrous mats and expressed collagen IV and laminin with a cobblestone‐like feature. A z‐stack scanning of fluorescently stained fibrous mats indicated that SMCs effectively infiltrated into fibrous scaffolds at the depth of around 200 μm. Compared with SMCs cultured alone, the coculture with ECs enhanced the proliferation, infiltration, and cytoskeleton elongation of SMCs on patterned fibrous mats. Although the coculture of SMCs made no significant difference in the EC growth, the coculture system on patterned fibrous scaffolds promoted ECM productions of both ECs and SMCs. Thus, this patterned fibrous configuration not only offers a promising technology in the design of tissue engineering scaffolds to construct blood vessels with durable mechanical properties, but also provides a platform for patterned coculture to investigate cell–matrix and cell–cell interactions in highly organized tissues. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 103A: 1949–1960, 2015.
The GPER Agonist G‐1 Induces Mitotic Arrest and Apoptosis in Human Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells Independent of GPER
Authors: Gui Yu , Shi Zhan , Wang ZengYong , Li Jing‐Jing , Xu Can , Tian RuiJuan , Song XinXing , Walsh Michael P. , Li Dong , Gao Jie , Zheng Xi‐Long
Published: September 2014

The G protein‐coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) has been implicated in the regulation of smooth muscle cell (SMC) proliferation. The GPER selective agonist G‐1 has been a useful tool for exploring the biological roles of GPER in a variety of experimental settings, including SMC proliferation. The present study, originally designed to investigate cellular and signaling mechanisms underlying the regulatory role of GPER in vascular SMC proliferation using G‐1, unexpectedly revealed off‐target effects of G‐1. G‐1(1–10 μM) inhibited bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation of human SMCs and caused G2/M cell accumulation. G‐1 treatment also increased mitotic index concurrent with a decrease in phosphorylation of Cdk1 (Tyr 15) and an increase in phosphorylation of the mitotic checkpoint protein BuBR1. Furthermore, G‐1 caused microtubule disruption, mitotic spindle damage, and tubulin depolymerization. G‐1 induced cell apoptosis as indicated by the appearance of TUNEL‐positive and annexin V‐positive cells with enhanced cleavage of caspases 3 and 9. However, neither the GPER antagonist G‐15 nor the MAPK kinase inhibitor PD98059 prevented these G‐1 effects. Down‐regulation of GPER or p44/42 MAPK with siRNA transfection also did not affect the G‐1‐induced apoptosis. We conclude that G‐1 inhibits proliferation of SMCs through mechanisms involving mitotic arrest and apoptosis, independent of GPER and the MAPK pathway. J. Cell. Physiol. 230: 885–895, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
p27 and Leukemia: Cell Cycle and Beyond
Authors: Roy Anita , Banerjee Subrata
Published: September 2014

Cell division is the foundation to development and the regulation of cell cycle progression is therefore of paramount importance to the living organisms. Primary control of cell cycle is achieved by an array of cyclins and cyclin dependent kinases (CDKs). The functions of these cyclin–CDK complexes are again regulated by a host of cyclin dependent kinase inhibitors (CDKI). Till date CDKIs are broadly classified into two groups—INK4 family (p15, p16, p18, and p19) and the cip/kip family (p21, p27, and p57). Collectively these CDKIs regulate the progression from G1 to S phase of cell cycle. This review summarizes the functions of p27 while highlighting its emerging roles in leukemia. J. Cell. Physiol. 230: 504–509, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., A Wiley Company
Influence of hepatic impairment on lenvatinib pharmacokinetics following single‐dose oral administration
Authors: Shumaker Robert , Aluri Jagadeesh , Fan Jean , Martinez Gresel , Pentikis Helen , Ren Min
Published: September 2014

This open‐label, single‐dose study assessed lenvatinib pharmacokinetics (PK) in subjects with normal hepatic function (n = 8) and mild, moderate, or severe hepatic impairment (n = 6 each). Subjects received 10 mg oral lenvatinib, except those with severe hepatic impairment (5 mg). Plasma and urine samples were collected over 14 days; free and total lenvatinib and its metabolites were analyzed using validated chromatography/spectrometry. PK parameters were estimated using noncompartmental analysis. There were no clinically meaningful effects of mild or moderate hepatic impairment on lenvatinib PK. Dose‐normalized Cmax for free lenvatinib was 7.0, 3.7, 5.7, and 5.6 ng/mL in subjects with normal hepatic function, mild, moderate, and severe hepatic impairment, respectively. There was no consistent trend, although dose‐normalized Cmax was lower for all subjects with hepatic impairment. AUCs increased 170% and t1/2 increased (37 versus 23 hours) in subjects with severe hepatic impairment. Changes in exposure based on total plasma concentrations were generally less than those based on free concentrations, suggesting changes in plasma protein binding in subjects with severe hepatic impairment. Lenvatinib was generally well tolerated. Subjects with severe hepatic impairment should begin lenvatinib treatment at a reduced dose of 14 mg versus 24 mg for subjects with normal liver function and subjects with mild or moderate hepatic impairment.
The effect of partial substitution of NaCl with KCl on the physicochemical, microbiological and sensory properties of Akkawi cheese
Authors: Kamleh Rabih , Olabi Ammar , Toufeili Imad , Daroub Hamza , Younis Tarek , Ajib Rola
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND

Studies have shown a direct relationship between increased dietary sodium intake and chronic diseases such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. Potassium chloride is the most widely used salt substitute for sodium chloride in different processed foods. Akkawi cheese, commonly consumed as fresh cheese, has a semi‐hard curd, chalky color, firm texture and salty flavor. The effect of partial replacement of NaCl with KCl on the chemical, textural, microbiological and sensory characteristics of fresh and mature Akkawi cheese was investigated.

RESULTS

Salt treatment (NaCl reduction) had a significant effect on pH, lactic acid, sodium and potassium contents of cheeses. Texture profile analysis revealed a significant effect of salt treatment on adhesiveness, chewiness and hardness of cheese. All tested microorganisms increased with storage but in general did not differ between salt treatments, specifically between control (100% NaCl) and (70% NaCl, 30% KCl) samples. Descriptive analysis showed that salt treatment had a significant effect on bitterness, crumbliness and hardness, whereas the age of cheese was significant for color and fermented flavor. Salt treatment had no effect on acceptability variables for all experimental 2‐week Akkawi samples.

CONCLUSION

The above results suggest that a 30% substitution of NaCl by KCl (70% NaCl, 30% KCl brine) is acceptable. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Mutation breeding of Saccharomyces cerevisiae with lower methanol content and the effects of pectinase, cellulase and glycine in sugar cane spirits
Authors: Liang Ming‐Hua , Liang Ying‐Jie , Wu Xiao‐Na , Zhou Shi‐Shui , Jiang Jian‐Guo
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND

To decrease the methanol content of the sugar cane sprits, mutagenesis of ultraviolet (UV) coupled with diethyl sulfate (DES) was used to generate a mutant of Saccharomyces cerevisiae with lower methanol content. Meanwhile, the effects of the additions of pectinase, cellulase and glycine on the production of methanol in sugar cane spirits were evaluated.

RESULTS

After mutagenesis of UV coupled with DES, a mutant S. cerevisiae DU9 with low production of methanol (97.3 ± 1.7 mg/L) was selected, with a 12.3% decrease of that of S. cerevisiae D4 only with DES treatment, and with a 27.8% reduction of that of the strain without any treatment. Pectinase and cellulase significantly increased the methanol levels of the sugar cane spirits. The results showed that there was linear relationship between glycine (concentration within 0∼0.9 g/L) and methanol in sugar cane sprits and the linear equation was y = 104.7 × −4.79 with the conversion rate of glycine conversion to methanol as 24.56%.

CONCLUSION

Mutagenesis of UV coupled with DES is an efficient way to generate a mutant of S. cerevisiae with lower methanol content. Also, it is necessary to control the additions of pectinase, cellulase and glycine in the fermentation medium, and other unknown ways to generate methanol metabolic pathway in yeasts may need further study. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
On‐chip protein isoelectric focusing using a photoimmobilized pH gradient†
Authors: Xia Lin , Lin FengMing , Wu Xin , Liu Chuanli , Wang Jianshe , Tang Qi , Yu Shiyong , Huang Kunjie , Deng Yulin , Geng Lina
Published: September 2014

An immobilized pH gradient was directly constructed on the inner wall of a microfluidic chip channel by photoimmobilizing focused carrier ampholytes onto the wall. A mixture of carbonic anhydrase, myoglobin, and trypsin inhibitor was successfully isoelectric‐focused and separated with good linearity between the pI values of proteins and the location of the focused bands. Furthermore, coating methods for the resistance of protein nonselective adsorption and simultaneously for pH gradient photocoupling were screened. The PEG‐silane coating method was found to be better than the cross‐linked polyacrylamide coating and aminosilane modification methods. Finally, based on the open tubular column mode of carrier ampholytes’ immobilization and effective antiadsorption coating, the immobilized pH gradient was reused and the chip was recycled for the first time. By virtue of its remarkable features including simplicity, convenience, high efficiency of protein enrichment and separation, and potential for coupling site‐selective IEF with other analytical or separation techniques, this novel method promises to be useful in several applications related with zwitterionic biomolecules.
Socio‐Economic Determinants of Adoption of Rainwater Harvesting and Conservation Techniques in Semi‐Arid Tharaka Sub‐County, Kenya
Authors: Recha C. W. , Mukopi M. N. , Otieno J. O.
Published: September 2014

This paper examines determinants of adoption of rainwater harvesting and conservation techniques in semi‐arid Tharaka sub‐county, Eastern Kenya. Given the erratic rainfall that characterises Tharaka, rainwater harvesting and conservation is critical for the improvement of agricultural production. The study was conducted in two agro‐ecological zones, and 196 respondents were interviewed. The majority of the farmers were practising between 1–3 and 4–6 rainwater harvesting and conservation techniques—an indication of the awareness of the benefits. In situ technologies were more frequently practised than micro‐catchment and macro‐catchment technologies. There were institutional efforts supporting adoption of micro‐catchment and macro‐catchment techniques in the recent past. Correlation results showed that the number of techniques practised was influenced by the number of years spent in school, arable land size, labour availability and number of livelihood options. Soil quality is an unlikely determinant of rainwater harvesting because a majority of the farmers rated it as good and fair. Chi‐squared results suggest that choice of rainwater techniques is primarily informed by a desire to harvest and conserve soil moisture than to improve soil quality. Although adoption of these technologies is encouraging, assessment of their efficiency in the context of physical attributes such as soil characteristics, slope and rainfall amount of the area would add value. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On a class of nonlinear obstacle problems with nonstandard growth
Authors: Zou Weilin , Wang Wei , Bi Yanhui
Published: September 2014

In this paper, we study a class of nonlinear obstacle problems with nonstandard growth. We obtain the L∞ estimate on the solutions and prove the existence and uniqueness of solutions to such problems. Our results are generalizations of the corresponding results in the constant exponent case. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of the Bernstein basis functions: an approach to combinatorial sums involving binomial coefficients and Catalan numbers
Authors: Simsek Yilmaz
Published: September 2014

We give some alternative forms of the generating functions for the Bernstein basis functions. Using these forms,we derive a collection of functional equations for the generating functions. By applying these equations, we prove some identities for the Bernstein basis functions. Integrating these identities, we derive a variety of identities and formulas, some old and some new, for combinatorial sums involving binomial coefficients, Pascal's rule, Vandermonde's type of convolution, the Bernoulli polynomials, and the Catalan numbers. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of nitrated proteins in Saccharomyces cerevisiae involved in mating signal transduction
Authors: Kang Jeong Won , Lee Na Young , Cho Kyung‐Cho , Lee Min Young , Choi Do‐Young , Park Sang‐Hyun , Kim Kwang Pyo
Published: September 2014

Protein tyrosine nitration (PTN) is a PTM that regulates signal transduction and inflammatory responses, and is related to neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases. The cellular function of PTN remains unclear because the low stoichiometry of PTN limits the identification and quantification of nitrated peptides. Effective enrichment is an important aspect of PTN analysis. In this study, we analyzed the in vivo nitroproteome elicited by mating signal transduction in Saccharomyces cerevisiae using a novel chemical enrichment method followed by LC‐MS/MS. Nitroproteome profiling successfully identified changes in the nitration states of 14 proteins during mating signal transduction in S. cerevisiae, making this the first reported in vivo nitroproteome in yeast. We investigated the biological functions of these nitroproteins and their relationships to mating signal transduction in S. cerevisiae using a protein–protein interaction network. Our results suggest that PTN and denitration may be involved in nonreactive nitrogen species‐mediated signal transduction and can provide clues for understanding the functional roles of PTN in vivo.