bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biophysical characterization of polyomavirus minor capsid proteins
Authors: Burkert Oliver , Kreßner Susanne , Sinn Ludwig , Giese Sven , Simon Claudia , Lilie Hauke
Published: April 2014

The murine polyomavirus encodes three structural proteins, VP1, VP2 and VP3, which together form the viral capsid. The outer shell of this capsid is composed of the major capsid protein VP1, the inner shell consists of VP2 and its N-terminally truncated form VP3. These two minor capsid proteins interact with their identical C-terminal part in the central cavity of VP1 pentamers, building the capsid assembly unit. While the VP1 structure and functions are well studied, VP2 and VP3 are poorly understood. In order to get a detailed insight into the structure and function of the minor capsid proteins, they were produced recombinantly in Escherichia coli as inclusion bodies and refolded in vitro. The success of refolding was strictly dependent on the presence of detergent in the refolding buffer. VP2 and VP3 are monomeric and their structures exhibit a high α-helical content. The function of both proteins could be monitored by complex formation with VP1. Furthermore, we could demonstrate a hemolytic activity of VP2/VP3 in vitro, which fits well into a postulated membrane interaction of VP2 during viral infection.
The Effects of T5 and T6 Heat Treatments on Wear Behaviour of AA6063 Alloy
Authors: Özyürek Dursun , Tunçay Tansel , Kaya Hasan
Published: April 2014

In this study, T5 heat treatment was applied to AA6063 alloy aged at 455 K for 2 hours after extrusion at 686 K. T6 heat treatment was also carried out by ageing at 455 K for 2 hours after solution heat treatment at 794 K for 1 hour. Heat treated T5 and T6 specimens were tested by pin-on-disc type wear equipment. Wear test was carried out by using 10, 20, 30 N loads and 400, 800, 1200 and 1600 m wear distance. T5 and T6 heat treated specimens were characterized with scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and hardness measurements. Worn surfaces of the specimens was also characterised with SEM. The results indicated that small and homogenously dispersed Mg2Si precipitates formed in AA6063 aluminium alloy with T6 heat treatment were compared to the T5 heat treatment. As a result of increment precipitate size, wear resistance decreased. T6 heat treated specimens showed higher hardness compared to the T5 heat treated specimens. In addition wear resistance and friction coefficient of both T5 and T6 heat treated specimens decreased with increasing applied load.
Individual Differences Predict Patterns in Spontaneous Involuntary Musical Imagery
Authors: Müllensiefen Daniel , Fry Joshua , Jones Rhiannon , Jilka Sagar , Stewart Lauren , Williamson Victoria J
Published: April 2014

Involuntary musical imagery (INMI) describes the everyday phenomenon of having a tune stuck in the head. Research has established the ubiquity of this form of spontaneous cognition but the predictive role of individual differences is still debated. This study examines the impact of everyday musical behaviors and subclinical obsessive compulsive attributes on INMI experiences. In total 1,536 participants completed three online questionnaires; a novel inventory of musical behavior and INMI, and a standardized obsessive compulsion (OC) inventory. Exploratory factor analysis (N = 512) and structural equation modelling (N = 1,024) were applied. Everyday singing and music listening positively predict length and frequency of reported INMI episodes, respectively. No relationships were found with musical training. High OC was positively related to INMI frequency and disturbance, but only indirectly to INMI episode length and unpleasantness. The identified contributory factors of INMI experiences are discussed in the context of musical memory and spontaneous mental activity.
Effects of Metrical Encoding on Melody Recognition
Authors: Acevedo Stefanie , Temperley David , Pfordresher Peter Q.
Published: April 2014

We report two experiments exploring whether matched metrical and motivic structure facilitate the recognition of melodic patterns. Eight tonal melodies were composed from binary (four-note) or ternary (three-note) motivic patterns, and were each presented within a metrical context that either matched or mismatched the pattern. On each trial, participants heard patterns twice and performed a same-different task; in half the trials, one pitch in the second presentation was altered. Performance was analyzed using signal detection analyses of sensitivity and response bias. In Experiment 1, expert listeners showed greater sensitivity to pitch change when metrical context matched motivic pattern structure than when they conflicted (an effect of metrical encoding) and showed no response bias. Novice listeners, however, did not show an effect of metrical encoding, exhibiting lower sensitivity and a bias toward responding “same.” In a second experiment using only novices, each trial contained five presentations of the standard followed by one presentation of the comparison. Sensitivity to changes improved relative to Experiment 1: evidence for metrical encoding – in the form of reduced response bias when meter and motive matched – was found. Results support the metrical encoding hypothesis and suggest that the use of metrical encoding may develop with expertise.
RECENT RESEARCH ON THE GROWTH PLATE: Impact of inflammatory cytokines on longitudinal bone growth
Authors: Sederquist Bettina , Fernandez-Vojvodich Paola , Zaman Farasat , Sävendahl Lars
Published: April 2014

Children with inflammatory diseases usually display abnormal growth patterns as well as delayed puberty. This is a result of several factors related to the disease itself, such as malnutrition, hypercortisolism, and elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. These factors in combination with glucocorticoid treatment contribute to growth retardation during chronic inflammation by systemically affecting the major regulator of growth, the GH/IGF1 axis. However, recent studies have also shown evidence of a direct effect of these factors at the growth plate level. In conditions of chronic inflammation, pro-inflammatory cytokines are upregulated and released into the circulation. The most abundant of these, tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin 1β (IL1β), and IL6, are all known to directly act on growth plate cartilage to induce apoptosis and thereby suppress bone growth. Both clinical and experimental studies have shown that growth retardation can partly be rescued when these cytokines are blocked. Therefore, therapy modulating the local actions of these cytokines may be effective for preventing growth failure in patients with chronic inflammatory disorders. In this review, we report the current knowledge of inflammatory cytokines and their role in regulating bone growth.
Activation of a GPCR leads to eIF4G phosphorylation at the 5′ cap and to IRES-dependent translation
Authors: León Kelly , Boulo Thomas , Musnier Astrid , Morales Julia , Gauthier Christophe , Dupuy Laurence , Heyne Steffen , Backofen Rolf , Poupon Anne , Cormier Patrick , Reiter Eric , Crepieux Pascale
Published: April 2014

The control of mRNA translation has been mainly explored in response to activated tyrosine kinase receptors. In contrast, mechanistic details on the translational machinery are far less available in the case of ligand-bound G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). In this study, using the FSH receptor (FSH-R) as a model receptor, we demonstrate that part of the translational regulations occurs by phosphorylation of the translation pre-initiation complex scaffold protein, eukaryotic initiation factor 4G (eIF4G), in HEK293 cells stably expressing the FSH-R. This phosphorylation event occurred when eIF4G was bound to the mRNA 5′ cap, and probably involves mammalian target of rapamycin. This regulation might contribute to cap-dependent translation in response to FSH. The cap-binding protein eIF4E also had its phosphorylation level enhanced upon FSH stimulation. We also show that FSH-induced signaling not only led to cap-dependent translation but also to internal ribosome entry site (IRES)-dependent translation of some mRNA. These data add detailed information on the molecular bases underlying the regulation of selective mRNA translation by a GPCR, and a topological model recapitulating these mechanisms is proposed.
Identifying biological pathways that underlie primordial short stature using network analysis
Authors: Hanson Dan , Stevens Adam , Murray Philip G , Black Graeme C M , Clayton Peter E
Published: April 2014

Mutations in CUL7, OBSL1 and CCDC8, leading to disordered ubiquitination, cause one of the commonest primordial growth disorders, 3-M syndrome. This condition is associated with i) abnormal p53 function, ii) GH and/or IGF1 resistance, which may relate to failure to recycle signalling molecules, and iii) cellular IGF2 deficiency. However the exact molecular mechanisms that may link these abnormalities generating growth restriction remain undefined. In this study, we have used immunoprecipitation/mass spectrometry and transcriptomic studies to generate a 3-M ‘interactome’, to define key cellular pathways and biological functions associated with growth failure seen in 3-M. We identified 189 proteins which interacted with CUL7, OBSL1 and CCDC8, from which a network including 176 of these proteins was generated. To strengthen the association to 3-M syndrome, these proteins were compared with an inferred network generated from the genes that were differentially expressed in 3-M fibroblasts compared with controls. This resulted in a final 3-M network of 131 proteins, with the most significant biological pathway within the network being mRNA splicing/processing. We have shown using an exogenous insulin receptor (INSR) minigene system that alternative splicing of exon 11 is significantly changed in HEK293 cells with altered expression of CUL7, OBSL1 and CCDC8 and in 3-M fibroblasts. The net result is a reduction in the expression of the mitogenic INSR isoform in 3-M syndrome. From these preliminary data, we hypothesise that disordered ubiquitination could result in aberrant mRNA splicing in 3-M; however, further investigation is required to determine whether this contributes to growth failure.
Echocardiography Screening of Siblings of Children With Bicuspid Aortic Valve
Authors: Hales Alice R. , Mahle William T.
Published: April 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Left heart defects, such as bicuspid aortic valve (BAV), are heritable. Consensus guidelines have recommended echocardiographic screening of first-degree relatives. The utility of this approach in siblings of children with BAV is not known. The objective of this study is to evaluate the yield of routine screening of siblings of children with BAV and undertake an economic analysis of this practice.

METHODS:

Siblings of children with BAV who underwent echocardiographic screening in a single pediatric cardiology practice were identified. The anatomic features and hemodynamics of siblings newly diagnosed with BAV were recorded. A Markov model was constructed to determine cost-effectiveness ratios, and sensitivity analyses were performed.

RESULTS:

There were 207 screened siblings of 181 children with BAV. The median age at screening was 7 years. BAV was identified in 21 (10.1%) of siblings screened. The median peak Doppler gradient was 18 mm Hg. Aortic insufficiency was mild or less in all. The mean cost to diagnose BAV in a sibling was $2109 per new case found. The estimated mean cost to avert a single aortic dissection in the third or fourth decade of life was $363 911. The estimated cost per life-year saved was $74 884 and ranged from $17 461 to $1 136 536 in sensitivity analysis.

CONCLUSIONS:

Echo screening among siblings of those with BAV is effective and inexpensive and may lower the risk of the complications of such as dissection, although it comes at a moderate cost relative to benefits gained. Screening of siblings should be incorporated into clinical care.
Empiric Combination Therapy for Gram-Negative Bacteremia
Authors: Sick Anna C. , Tschudin-Sutter Sarah , Turnbull Alison E. , Weissman Scott J. , Tamma Pranita D.
Published: April 2014

BACKGROUND:

Empirical combination antibiotic regimens consisting of a β-lactam and an aminoglycoside are frequently employed in the pediatric population. Data to demonstrate the comparative benefit of empirical β-lactam combination therapy relative to monotherapy for culture-proven Gram-negative bacteremia are lacking in the pediatric population.

METHODS:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of children treated for Gram-negative bacteremia at The Johns Hopkins Hospital from 2004 through 2012. We compared the estimated odds of 10-day mortality and the relative duration of bacteremia for children receiving empirical combination therapy versus empirical monotherapy using 1:1 nearest-neighbor propensity-score matching without replacement, before performing regression analysis.

RESULTS:

We identified 226 matched pairs of patients well balanced on baseline covariates. Ten-day mortality was similar between the groups (odds ratio, 0.84; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.28 to 1.71). Use of empirical combination therapy was not associated with a decrease in the duration of bacteremia (−0.51 days; 95% CI, −2.22 to 1.48 days). There was no survival benefit when evaluating 10-day mortality for the severely ill (pediatric risk of mortality III score ≥15) or profoundly neutropenic patients (absolute neutrophil count ≤100 cells/mL) receiving combination therapy. However, a survival benefit was observed when empirical combination therapy was prescribed for children growing multidrug-resistant Gram-negative organisms from the bloodstream (odds ratio, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.51 to 0.84).

CONCLUSIONS:

Although there appears to be no advantage to the routine addition of an aminoglycoside to a β-lactam as empirical therapy for children who have Gram-negative bacteremia, children who have risk factors for MDRGN organisms appear to benefit from this practice.
Lifetime Direct Medical Costs of Childhood Obesity
Authors: Finkelstein Eric Andrew , Graham Wan Chen Kang , Malhotra Rahul
Published: April 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

An estimate of the lifetime medical costs of an obese child provides a benchmark of the potential per capita savings that could accrue from successful childhood obesity prevention efforts. We reviewed the literature to identify the best current estimate of the incremental lifetime per capita medical cost of an obese child in the United States today relative to a normal weight child.

METHODS:

We searched PubMed and Web of Science for US-based studies published within the 15 years preceding May 2013 from which lifetime medical cost estimates can be extracted or imputed. Two reviewers independently screened search results and extracted data from eligible articles. All estimates were inflated to 2012 dollars and discounted to reflect costs from the perspective of a 10-year-old child today.

RESULTS:

We identified 6 studies. The incremental lifetime direct medical cost from the perspective of a 10-year-old obese child relative to a 10-year-old normal weight child ranges from $12 660 to $19 630 when weight gain through adulthood among normal weight children is accounted for and from $16 310 to $39 080 when this adjustment is not made.

CONCLUSIONS:

We recommend use of an estimate of $19 000 as the incremental lifetime medical cost of an obese child relative to a normal weight child who maintains normal weight throughout adulthood. The alternative estimate, which considers the reality of eventual weight gain among normal weight youth, is $12 660. Additional research is needed to include estimates of indirect costs of childhood obesity.
Spontaneous Atomic Ordering in Semiconductor Alloys: Causes, Carriers, and Consequences
Authors: Zunger Alex
Published: April 2014

For many years, it was believed that when two isovalent semiconductors are mixed, they will phase-separate (like oil and water) at low temperature, they will form a solid solution (like gin and tonic) at high temperatures, but they will never produce ordered atomic arrangements. This view was based on the analysis of the solid-liquid equilibria at high temperatures and on empirical observation of phase separation at low temperatures. These observations were further rationalized and legitimized by applying the classic (Hildebrand) solution models, which predicted just this type of behavior. These models showed that the observed behavior of the AxB1 − x alloys implied a positive excess enthalpy ΔH(x) = E(x) − xE(A) − (1 − x)E(B) (where E is the total energy) and that this positiveness (“repulsive A-B interactions”) resulted from the strain energy attendant upon packing two solids with dissimilar lattice constants. The larger the lattice mismatch, the more difficult it was to form the alloy. Common to these approaches (“regular solution theory,” “quasiregular solution theory,” “delta lattice-parameter model,” etc.) was the assumption that the enthalpy ΔH(x) of an alloy depends on its global composition x but not on the microscopic arrangement of atoms (e.g., ordered versus disordered). Thus, ordered and disordered configurations at the same compo sition x were tacitly assumed to have the same excess enthalpy ΔH(x). Clearly the option for ordering was eliminated at the outset. While these theories served to produce very useful depictions of the immiscibility of many semiconductor alloys (and continue to guide strategies of crystal growth), they also cemented the paradigm that semiconductor alloys don't order, they just phase-separate. This was true, at the time.
Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate Is an Easy Predictor of Venous Thromboembolism in Cancer Patients Undergoing Platinum-Based Chemotherapy
Authors: Ferroni Patrizia , Guadagni Fiorella , Laudisi Anastasia , Vergati Matteo , Riondino Silvia , Russo Antonio , Davì Giovanni , Roselli Mario
Published: April 2014

Background.

Reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) has been associated with increased venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk in the general population. VTE incidence significantly increases in cancer patients, especially those undergoing chemotherapy. Despite the evidence that a substantial number of cancer patients have unrecognized renal impairment, as indicated by reduced eGFR in the presence of serum creatinine levels within the reference value, chemotherapy dosage is routinely adjusted for serum creatinine values. Among chemotherapies, platinum-based regimens are associated with the highest rates of VTE. A cohort study was designed to assess the value of pretreatment eGFR in the risk prediction of a first VTE episode in cancer outpatients without previous history of VTE who were scheduled for platinum-based chemotherapy.

Methods.

Serum creatinine and eGFR were evaluated before the start of standard platinum-based chemotherapy in a cohort of 322 consecutive patients with primary or relapsing/recurrent solid cancers, representative of a general practice population.

Results.

Patients who experienced a first VTE episode in the course of chemotherapy had lower mean eGFR values compared with patients who remained VTE free. Multivariate Cox analysis demonstrated that eGFR had an independent value for risk prediction of a first VTE episode during treatment, with a 3.15 hazard ratio. Indeed, 14% of patients with reduced eGFR had VTE over 1-year follow-up compared with 6% of patients with normal eGFR values.

Conclusion.

The results suggest that reductions in eGFR, even in the presence of normal serum creatinine, are associated with an increased VTE risk in cancer outpatients undergoing platinum-based chemotherapy regimens. Determining eGFR before chemotherapy could represent a simple predictor of VTE, at no additional cost to health care systems.
Heterospecific pollen receipt affects self pollen more than outcross pollen: implications for mixed‐mating plants
Authors: Arceo-Gómez Gerardo , Ashman Tia-Lynn
Published: April 2014

Flowering plants often occur in mixed‐species groups where interactions between them can occur both pre‐ and post‐pollination. In post‐pollination interactions, conspecific (CP) and heterospecific pollen (HP) interact on the style and previous work indicates that these interactions, often, but not always, lead to reduced fitness. However, over half of insect‐pollinated species display a mixed mating system, where both self and outcross CP could interact with HP, yet no study has evaluated the effects on both types of CP. We present and test hypotheses for the differential effects of HP depending on CP source and timing of HP arrival with a mixed‐mating plant,Mimulus guttatus, and one of its HP donors (Helianthus exilis). We foundH. exilispollen reduced tube growth and fertilization success ofM. guttatusself pollen to a greater degree than outcross pollen, but only when CP and HP were applied simultaneously. Our results indicate that for mixed‐mating plants the fitness consequences of HP receipt can be more detrimental than previously thought. Furthermore, our findings suggest that HP receipt, which can be high in biodiverse areas, has the potential to influence mating system and genetic diversity of the plant populations within them.
Seed predation by rodents results in directed dispersal of viable seed fragments of an endangered desert shrub
Authors: Loayza Andrea P. , Carvajal Danny E. , García-Guzmán Patricio , Gutierrez Julio R. , Squeo Francisco A.
Published: April 2014

Seed predation and seed dispersal are important ecological processes with antagonistic effects on plant recruitment. In the southern edge of the Atacama Desert in Chile, Myrcianthes coquimbensis is an endangered, large‐seeded, vertebrate‐dispersed shrub that in the present‐day has no known dispersers. Native rodents hoard and eat the seeds of M. coquimbensis but leave viable seed fragments at the hoarding sites; soil interspaces within rock outcrops where seedlings recruit. Here we examined whether rodents act as effective dispersers of M. coquimbensis by discarding viable seed fragments in sites suitable for recruitment. We simulated different levels of endosperm loss to determine if seedlings could develop from seed fragments. We assessed how frequently rodents discarded fragments, and the probability that these fragments produced seedlings. Finally, we compared emergence and seedling survival at the hoarding sites and in two other habitats where seeds arrive to evaluate the suitability of the hoarding sites. Seeds of M. coquimbensis developed seedlings even after 87% of their storage tissue was removed. Rodents left seed fragments in more than 50% of the trials; almost 60% of the discarded fragments produced seedlings. Seedlings did not emerge from open ground habitats, and emergence was higher under M. coquimbensis shrubs than in rock habitats. Survival of two‐year‐old seedlings was higher in rock habitats than under conspecific adult shrubs. Our results suggest that rodents may play a dual role in the recruitment dynamics of M. coquimbensis, acting simultaneously as seed predators and effective dispersers. Therefore, though seed predators impose costs, their net effect on plant fitness in this system—where dispersers of large‐seeded species have been lost—is likely positive.
Indicators of soil fertility and opportunities for precontact agriculture in Kona, Hawai'i
Authors: Lincoln Noa , Chadwick Oliver , Vitousek Peter
Published: April 2014

The distribution, mode, and intensity of agriculture both influence and are influenced by the natural environment. Soil fertility indicators that correlate with the intensification of dryland agriculture in pre‐contact Hawai'i have been mapped across the Hawaiian archipelago. We investigated these soil fertility indicators and agricultural development in the unique environment of Kona, Hawai'i, the largest, culturally most significant, and geologically youngest of the dryland field systems in Hawai'i. Agriculture was intensified systematically on substrates ≥4,000 years old with appropriate climate and fertility in Kona, in keeping with archipelago‐wide analyses. In comparison with other dryland agricultural systems in Hawaii, we found that soil fertility indicators used to predict pre‐European agricultural intensification are shifted towards lower rainfall on the younger geological substrates of Kona. For example, base saturation reached low levels (<30%) at ∼1200 mm/yr rainfall on 1,200 year old substrate and at ∼1400 mm/yr on 7,500 year old substrate in Kona, versus ∼1800 mm/yr on 150,000 year old substrate on Kohala Volcano. We suggest that this difference reflects a kinetic, rather than an irreversible, limitation to soil fertility in Kona, and we discuss how this difference could have influenced opportunities for agricultural intensification and the distribution of agroecological zones.
Towards a mechanistic understanding of fish species niche divergence along a river continuum
Authors: Troia Matthew J. , Gido Keith B.
Published: April 2014

Environmental niche modeling is a valuable tool but it often fails to identify causal links between environmental gradients and individual‐ or population‐level performance that drive species' distributions. Correlation between the abundances of stream fish species and longitudinal position in stream networks is well documented and is hypothesized to occur through differential environmental filtering of trophic traits. Still, trophically similar congeners often exhibit complementary distributions along stream size gradients, suggesting that other mechanisms are important. We present niche models to test the hypothesis that four congeneric pairs (Teleostei: Cyprinidae) exhibit complementary distributions along a gradient of stream size in the central Great Plains of Kansas, USA. Stream size was the strongest predictor of abundance compared to five other environmental variables tested and three of the four species pairs exhibited complementary distributions along a stream size gradient. We carried out field experiments to quantify potentially causal environmental gradients (food resources, temperature, and turbidity) and four measures of individual performance (adult spawning success and juvenile survival, condition, and growth) along a stream size gradient for one congeneric pair: Pimephales notatus, a tributary species and P. vigilax, a river mainstem species. These experiments revealed an increase in temperature and food resources with stream size, along with a corresponding increase in adult spawning success, juvenile condition, and juvenile growth for both species. We conclude that these congeners respond similarly to abiotic gradients associated with the river continuum and that complementary distributions are a consequence of biotic interactions, differential environmental filtering evident in an unmeasured performance metric, or differential environmental filtering by a direct environmental gradient operating at longer timescales.
Effect of plant extracts Kitaibelia vitifolia on antioxidant activity, chemical characteristics, microbiological status and sensory properties of Pirotski kachkaval cheese
Authors: Kurcubic Vladimir , Vujic Jelena , Ilicic Mirela , Vranic Danijela , Veskovic-Moracanin Slavica , Maskovic Pavle
Published: April 2014

The aim of our study was to evaluate the impact of cheese (Pirotski
kachkaval) fortification by polyphenols attributed to Kitaibelia vitifolia
ethanol herb extract, applied in two different manners (added to the cheese
curd after texturizing or sprayed on surface of cheese). Investigation of the
used antioxidant effects of polyphenols, physic-chemical composition,
microbiological quality and sensory properties of Pirotski kachkaval was
undertaken. Antioxidant activity of conventional and fortified cheese was
evaluated by five contemporary and compatible methods, and revealed a slight
emphasis on phenol-linked antioxidant activity of fortified samples of cheese
in comparison to samples of the control group. Fortified Pirotski kachkaval
had higher sensory evaluation scores than the controls. Statistically
significant (P < 0.05) changes were observed in moisture content and total
solids of control and modified series of cheese, but other parameters did not
differ significantly (P > 0.05).
Laser cladding with scanning optics: Effect of scanning frequency and laser beam power density on cladding process
Authors: Pekkarinen Joonas , Salminen Antti , Kujanpää Veli
Published: April 2014

Scanning optics is an effective way to manipulate a laser beam for laser cladding. The numerical adjustment of the scanner gives a great deal of flexibility to the cladding process. However, the effect of the scanned beam on the cladding process itself has not been studied very thoroughly so far. This study concentrates on explaining how the scanning frequency and power density of the laser beam affect the stability of the cladding process. The results showed that both of these factors significantly influence the process stability and the outcome of the cladding process. If the local specific energy input was over 2.46 J/mm2, the process was noticed to be unstable. This limit was cross when scanning frequency was under 40 Hz. Power density's limit value for stable process was found to be 191 kW/cm2 and higher power densities than this was found to produce unstable process. If the cladding process was found to be unstable, dilution increased significantly and process started to resemble more laser alloying.
New genetic insights to consider coffee waste as feedstock for fuel, feed, and chemicals
Authors: Summers Ryan , Gopishetty Sridhar , Mohanty Sujit , Subramanian Mani
Published: April 2014

Caffeine is a natural plant product found in many drinks, including coffee, tea, soft and energy drinks. Due to caffeine’s presence in the environment, microorganisms have evolved two different mechanisms to live on caffeine. The genetic maps of the caffeine N-demethylation pathway and C-8 oxidation pathway have been discovered in Pseudomonas putida CBB5 and Pseudomonas sp. CBB1, respectively. These genes are the only characterized bacterial caffeine-degrading genes, and may be of great value in producing fine chemicals, biofuels, and animal feed from coffee and tea waste. Here, we present preliminary results for production of theobromine and 7-methylxanthine from caffeine and theobromine, respectively, by two strains of metabolically engineered E. coli. We also demonstrate complete decaffeination of tea extract by an immobilized mixed culture of Klebsiella and Rhodococcus cells. These processes provide a first level demonstration of biotechnological utilization of coffee and tea waste.
Morpho-structural and luminescence investigations on yttrium silicate based phosphors prepared with different precipitating agents
Authors: Muresan Laura , Cadis Adrian , Perhaita Ioana , Indrea Emil
Published: April 2014

Yttrium silicate doped with cerium (Y2SiO5:Ce) was obtained from Y-Ce-Si based precursors prepared by the simultaneous addition of reagents (SimAdd) technique. The synthesis of the precursors was done in well controlled conditions using ammonium oxalate, ammonium carbonate or urea as precipitating agents. Results regarding the influence of precipitating agents on the morpho structural and photoluminescent characteristics of Y2SiO5:Ce are reported. The TG analysis in correlation with EGA, FT-IR and XRD investigations reveals the formation of oxalate, hydroxy-carbonate or hydroxy-nitrate based compounds, the same as the conversion of the precursors to well crystallized yttrium silicate. XRD patterns show that the precursors are amorphous except for the sample prepared with ammonium oxalate. Depending on the precipitation conditions, the phosphors phase composition varies from single phase (X2-Y2SiO5) to a mixture of phases (X2-Y2SiO5, X1-Y2SiO5, Y2O3). Under UV excitation, phosphors exhibit the specific blue emission of cerium with an intensity that varies from 175.8% (urea) to 96.0% (ammonium carbonate) and to 78.5% (ammonium oxalate). The emission intensity depends on the phase purity and order degree of the phosphors. PACS Classification codes:78.55 Hx, 81.20Fw
Role of B Cells in Breaking and Maintaining Tolerance to Clotting Factor VIII in Congenital and Acquired Hemophilia A
Authors: Actor Amanda , Holley Claire , Csencsits-Smith Keri
Published: April 2014

Immune responses directed against clotting factor FVIII (FVIII) seriously complicate treatments for patients with hemophilia A. This response can manifest in congenital hemophilia A patients who generate inhibitor antibodies that bind and inactivate “transplanted” replacement FVIII, as well as in acquired hemophiliacs, whose immune systems have lost tolerance to self-FVIII. Regardless of the mechanism by which production of anti-FVIII inhibitor antibody is triggered, the maintenance of this deleterious response in both congenital and acquired hemophiliacs likely relies upon FVIII specific memory B cells. In this review, the similarities and differences in the kinetics, specificities, and subclasses of antibodies produced in response to allo- and auto-FVIII is outlined. A brief description of the immune cell interactions that contribute to maintenance of antibody response, focusing on development of memory B cells and/or long lived plasma cells is also presented. As current treatments for inhibitor antibodies are not successful in all patients, a better understanding of the functions and persistence of memory B cells specific for FVIII is required. Herein, both clinical and experimental data regarding the effects of immune tolerance induction on memory B cell subpopulations is discussed. Finally, the outcomes of B cell-specific depletion via rituximab in hemophilia and other autoimmune diseases are discussed to highlight insights into the subpopulations of memory B cells that contribute to the development and maintenance of successful tolerance to FVIII.
Shift Multiplex Recording of Four-Valued Phase Data Pages by Volume Retardagraphy
Authors: Barada Daisuke , Sekiguchi Hiroki , Fukuda Takashi , Kawata Shigeo , Yatagai Toyohiko
Published: April 2014

In this paper, shift multiplex recording of phase data pages on a volume polarization-sensitive medium by retardagraphy is demonstrated. The origin of shift selectivity in volume retardagraphy is explained. In the experiment, four-valued phase data pages are used. Then, a coding method is proposed to correct a reconstructed phase pattern. The recorded phase data pages are reconstructed using the feature of the coding method. By comparing the reconstructed phase data pages with recording phase data pages, symbol error rates of less than 11% are achieved. From the experimental result, it is verified that volume retardagraphy is applicable to optical memory.
Hierarchical Thin Film Architectures for Enhanced Sensor Performance: Liquid Crystal-Mediated Electrochemical Synthesis of Nanostructured Imprinted Polymer Films for the Selective Recognition of Bupivacaine
Authors: Suriyanarayanan Subramanian , Nawaz Hazrat , Ndizeye Natacha , Nicholls Ian
Published: April 2014

Nanostructured bupivacaine-selective molecularly imprinted 3-aminophenylboronic acid-p-phenylenediamine co-polymer (MIP) films have been prepared on gold-coated quartz (Au/quartz) resonators by electrochemical synthesis under cyclic voltammetric conditions in a liquid crystalline (LC) medium (triton X-100/water). Films prepared in water and in the absence of template were used for control studies. Infrared spectroscopic studies demonstrated comparable chemical compositions for LC and control polymer films. SEM studies revealed that the topologies of the molecularly imprinted polymer films prepared in the LC medium (LC-MIP) exhibit discernible 40 nm thick nano-fiber structures, quite unlike the polymers prepared in the absence of the LC-phase. The sensitivity of the LC-MIP in a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensor platform was 67.6 ± 4.9 Hz/mM under flow injection analysis (FIA) conditions, which was ≈250% higher than for the sensor prepared using the aqueous medium. Detection was possible at 100 nM (30 ng/mL), and discrimination of bupivacaine from closely related structural analogs was readily achieved as reflected in the corresponding stability constants of the MIP-analyte complexes. The facile fabrication and significant enhancement in sensor sensitivity together highlight the potential of this LC-based imprinting strategy for fabrication of polymeric materials with hierarchical architectures, in particular for use in surface-dependent application areas, e.g., biomaterials or sensing.
Critical Role of Aberrant Angiogenesis in the Development of Tumor Hypoxia and Associated Radioresistance
Authors: Multhoff Gabriele , Radons Jürgen , Vaupel Peter
Published: April 2014

Newly formed microvessels in most solid tumors show an abnormal morphology and thus do not fulfil the metabolic demands of the growing tumor mass. Due to the chaotic and heterogeneous tumor microcirculation, a hostile tumor microenvironment develops, that is characterized inter alia by local hypoxia, which in turn can stimulate the HIF-system. The latter can lead to tumor progression and may be involved in hypoxia-mediated radioresistance of tumor cells. Herein, cellular and molecular mechanisms in tumor angiogenesis are discussed that, among others, might impact hypoxia-related radioresistance.
The Efficiency and Safety of Leuphasyl—A Botox-Like Peptide
Authors: Dragomirescu Anca , Andoni Mihaiela , Ionescu Daniela , Andrei Felicia
Published: April 2014

Peptides of synthesis are a very new strategy in cosmetic science and technology for at least two reasons: (1) they are small molecules, easily penetrable in the skin and (2) they are able to induce a very specific action, because all skin cells (keratinocytes, fibroblasts, nervous cells) have membrane receptors for peptides. This group of cosmeceutics includes the botox-like peptides, represented by acetyl hexapeptide 3 (Argireline) and pentapeptid-3 (Leuphasyl). The latter is less known and has been less studied. This substance inhibits the neuromuscular synapses in the mimic muscles, acting as enkephalins. It links the enkephalin receptor to nervous cells, thereby modulating the release of acetylcholine in synaptic space. This cellular activity will be translated in vivo in a relaxation of the muscle and a reduction of expression wrinkles. The aim of our study is to evaluate the optimal concentration of Leuphasyl for skin application at the mimic muscle level, the efficiency and the safety of this peptide. We formulated three emulsions of different concentrations (0.5%, 1%, 2%) which were applied to the skin, at the level of mimic muscles (1) at the eyebrows zone (above the corrugator supercilii muscle) and (2) at the periorbital zone (above the orbicularis oculi muscle). We evaluated the regression of the wrinkles between the eyebrows using an imagistic method: pro-derm Analyser. The study is of interest to discussions concerning how to apply these kinds of cosmetic products at the mimic muscle skin level and not at the level of the wrinkles.
Intercalated Cells: More than pH Regulation
Authors: Almomani Ensaf , Kaur Sumanpreet , Alexander R. , Cordat Emmanuelle
Published: April 2014

The renal collecting duct is the nephron segment where the final urine content of acid equivalents and inorganic ions are determined. The role of two different cell types present in this nephron segment has been determined many years ago: principal cells that express the epithelial sodium channel ENaC and aquaporin 2, regulate electrolyte reabsorption, while intercalated cells, which express acid-base transporters and vacuolar H+-ATPase, maintain an apropriate acid-base balance. Recent evidence challenges this historical view. Rather than having independent and non-overlapping functions, the two cell types in the collecting duct appear to functionally cooperate to regulate acid-base and volume homeostasis via complex paracrine and endocrine interplay. This review summarizes these recent findings.
End-Fire Antenna for BAN at 60 GHz: Impact of Bending, On-Body Performances, and Study of an On to Off-Body Scenario
Authors: Guraliuc Anda , Chahat Nacer , Leduc Carole , Zhadobov Maxim , Sauleau Ronan
Published: April 2014

A compact end-fire wearable Yagi-Uda antenna covering the entire 57–64 GHz frequency band is characterized in free space, in the presence of a skin-equivalent phantom and under bending conditions. The results demonstrate that, when placed on the body and/or bended, the antenna preserves satisfactory performances. The possibility of its use for an on/off-body communications at 60 GHz is investigated numerically and experimentally in a representative scenario in terms of E-field and power flow distributions, as well as in terms of path gain. It is shown that this antenna is a suitable candidate for high-data-rate short-range on/off-body transmissions.
Analysis of the Energy Balance of Shale Gas Development
Authors: Yaritani Hiroaki , Matsushima Jun
Published: April 2014

Interest has rapidly grown in the use of unconventional resources to compensate for depletion of conventional hydrocarbon resources (“easy hydrocarbon”) that are produced at relatively low cost from oil and gas fields with large proven reserves. When one wants to ensure the prospects for development of unconventional resources that are potentially vast in terms of their energy potential, it is essential to determine the quality of that energy. Here we consider the development of shale gas, an unconventional energy resource of particularly strong interest of late, through analysis of its energy return on investment (EROI), a key indicator for qualitative assessment of energy resources. We used a Monte Carlo approach for the carbon footprint of U.S. operations in shale gas development to estimate expected ranges of EROI values by incorporating parameter variability. We obtained an EROI of between 13 and 23, with a mean of approximately 17 at the start of the pipeline. When we incorporated all the costs required to bring shale gas to the consumer, the mean value of EROI drops from about 17 at the start of the pipeline to 12 when delivered to the consumer. The shale gas EROI values estimated in the present study are in the initial stage of shale gas exploitation where the quality of that resource may be considerably higher than the mean and thus the careful and continuous investigation of change in EROI is needed, especially as production moves off the initial “sweet spots”.
Left Right Patterning, Evolution and Cardiac Development
Authors: Dykes Iain
Published: April 2014

Many aspects of heart development are determined by the left right axis and as a result several congenital diseases have their origins in aberrant left-right patterning. Establishment of this axis occurs early in embryogenesis before formation of the linear heart tube yet impacts upon much later morphogenetic events. In this review I discuss the differing mechanisms by which left-right polarity is achieved in the mouse and chick embryos and comment on the evolution of this system. I then discus three major classes of cardiovascular defect associated with aberrant left-right patterning seen in mouse mutants and human disease. I describe phenotypes associated with the determination of atrial identity and venous connections, looping morphogenesis of the heart tube and finally the asymmetric remodelling of the embryonic branchial arch arterial system to form the leftward looped arch of aorta and associated great arteries. Where appropriate, I consider left right patterning defects from an evolutionary perspective, demonstrating how developmental processes have been modified in species over time and illustrating how comparative embryology can aide in our understanding of congenital heart disease.
Retinoic Acid, under Cerebrospinal Fluid Control, Induces Neurogenesis during Early Brain Development
Authors: Alonso M. , Carnicero Estela , Carretero Raquel , De la Mano Aníbal , Moro Jose , Lamus Francisco , Martín Cristina , Gato Angel
Published: April 2014

One of the more intriguing subjects in neuroscience is how a precursor or stem cell is induced to differentiate into a neuron. Neurogenesis begins early in brain development and suddenly becomes a very intense process, which is related with the influence of Retinoic Acid. Here, using a biological test (F9-1.8 cells) in chick embryos, we show that “in vivo” embryonic cerebrospinal fluid regulates mesencephalic-rombencephalic Isthmic Retinoic Acid synthesis and this effect has a direct influence on mesencephalic neuroepithelial precursors, inducing a significant increase in neurogenesis. This effect is mediated by the Retinol Binding Protein present in the embryonic cerebrospinal fluid. The knowledge of embryonic neurogenetic stimulus could be useful in the control of adult brain neurogenesis.
A New Era of Intelligence Research
Authors: Conway Andrew
Published: April 2014

A consensus definition of intelligence remains elusive but there are many reasons to believe that the field of intelligence is entering a new era of significant progress. The convergence of recent advances in psychometrics, cognitive psychology, and neuroscience has set the stage for the development of stronger theories and more sophisticated models. The establishment of a new open access journal as an outlet for new intelligence research is evidence that the new era has begun.
Land-Use Threats and Protected Areas: A Scenario-Based, Landscape Level Approach
Authors: Wilson Tamara , Sleeter Benjamin , Sleeter Rachel , Soulard Christopher
Published: April 2014

Anthropogenic land use will likely present a greater challenge to biodiversity than climate change this century in the Pacific Northwest, USA. Even if species are equipped with the adaptive capacity to migrate in the face of a changing climate, they will likely encounter a human-dominated landscape as a major dispersal obstacle. Our goal was to identify, at the ecoregion-level, protected areas in close proximity to lands with a higher likelihood of future land-use conversion. Using a state-and-transition simulation model, we modeled spatially explicit (1 km2) land use from 2000 to 2100 under seven alternative land-use and emission scenarios for ecoregions in the Pacific Northwest. We analyzed scenario-based land-use conversion threats from logging, agriculture, and development near existing protected areas. A conversion threat index (CTI) was created to identify ecoregions with highest projected land-use conversion potential within closest proximity to existing protected areas. Our analysis indicated nearly 22% of land area in the Coast Range, over 16% of land area in the Puget Lowland, and nearly 11% of the Cascades had very high CTI values. Broader regional-scale land-use change is projected to impact nearly 40% of the Coast Range, 30% of the Puget Lowland, and 24% of the Cascades (i.e., two highest CTI classes). A landscape level, scenario-based approach to modeling future land use helps identify ecoregions with existing protected areas at greater risk from regional land-use threats and can help prioritize future conservation efforts.
Effect of Cross-Linking on the Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Poly(amidoamine) Dendrimer/Poly(vinyl alcohol) Hybrid Membranes for CO2 Separation
Authors: Duan Shuhong , Kai Teruhiko , Saito Takashi , Yamazaki Kota , Ikeda Kenichi
Published: April 2014

Poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimers were incorporated into cross-linked poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) matrix to improve carbon dioxide (CO2) separation performance at elevated pressures. In our previous studies, PAMAM/PVA hybrid membranes showed high CO2 separation properties from CO2/H2 mixed gases. In this study, three types of organic Ti metal compounds were selected as PVA cross-linkers that were used to prepare PAMAM/cross-linked PVA hybrid membranes. Characterization of the PAMAM/cross-linked PVA hybrid membranes was conducted using nanoindentation and thermogravimetric analyses. The effects of the cross-linker and CO2 partial pressure in the feed gas on CO2 separation performance were discussed. H2O and CO2 sorption of the PAMAM/PVA hybrid membranes were investigated to explain the obtained CO2 separation efficiencies.