bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecularly imprinted polymers coupled to matrix assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry for femtomoles detection of cardiac troponin I peptides
Authors: Cenci Lucia , Anesi Andrea , Busato Mirko , Guella Graziano , Bossi Alessandra Maria
Published: September 2015

Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) were combined to MALDI‐TOF‐MS to evaluate a selective enrichment (SE) method for the determination of clinically relevant biomarkers from complex biological samples. The concept was proven with the myocardial injury marker Troponin I (cTnI). In a first part, MIP materials entailed for the recognition of cTnI epitopes (three peptides selected) were prepared and characterized in dimensions (0.7–2μm), dissociation constants (58–817 nM), kinetics of binding (5–60 min), binding capacity (ca. 1.5 µg/mg polymer), imprinting factors (3 > IF > 5) and selectivity for the peptide epitope. Then, the MIPs, incubated with cTnI peptides and spotted on the target with the DHB matrix, were assayed for the desorption of the peptides in MALDI‐TOF‐MS. The measured detection limit was ca. 300 femtomols. Finally, the MIP‐SE MALDI‐TOF‐MS was tested for its ability to enrich in the cTnI peptides from a complex sample, mimic of serum (i.e. 81 peptides of digested albumin). The MIP‐SE MALDI‐TOF‐MS successfully enriched in cTnI peptides from the complex sample proving the technique could offer a flexible platform to prepare entailed materials suitable for diagnostic purposes. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impaired regulation of portal venous flow in response to a meal challenge as quantified by 4D flow MRI
Authors: Roldán‐Alzate Alejandro , Frydrychowicz Alex , Said Adnan , Johnson Kevin M. , Francois Christopher J. , Wieben Oliver , Reeder Scott B.
Published: September 2015

Purpose

Portal and mesenteric hemodynamics is greatly altered in portal hypertension patients. This study utilizes 4D flow magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to visualize and quantify changes in abdominal hemodynamics in patients with portal hypertension undergoing meal challenge.

Materials and Methods

Twelve portal hypertension patients and six healthy subjects participated in the study. Baseline MRI was acquired after 5 hours of fasting. Postmeal MRI was obtained 20 minutes after subjects ingested EnSure Plus (574 mL). Imaging was performed at 3T using 4D flow MRI with an undersampled radial acquisition. Flow measurements were performed blinded to subject status (fasting/meal). Flow values for each vessel were compared before and after the meal challenge using paired Student's t‐tests (P < 0.05).

Results

After meal challenge, significant increases in blood flow were observed in supraceliac aorta, portal vein, superior mesenteric vein, and artery in both groups (P < 0.05). In patients, hepatic artery (P = 0.001) and splenic vein (P = 0.045) flow decreased while azygos vein flow (P = 0.002) increased.

Conclusion

Portal venous flow regulation to adjust the increasing mesenteric venous flow after a meal challenge may be impaired in patients with cirrhosis. The ability to comprehensively quantify the hemodynamic response of the abdominal vasculature to a meal challenge using 4D flow MRI reveals the potential of this technique to noninvasively characterize portal hypertension hemodynamics. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;42:1009–1017.
Efficient modeling of GaN HEMTs for linear and nonlinear circuits design
Authors: Jarndal Anwar , Kouki Ammar
Published: September 2015

In this paper, a nonlinear modeling approach for gallium nitride high‐electron mobility transistor (GaN HEMT) on Si substrate is proposed. A reliable method has been developed to extract the extrinsic elements of the model. Its main advantage is its accuracy and dependency on only pinched‐off and unbiased S‐parameter measurements. The extrinsic elements are de‐embedded from multi‐bias S‐parameters to characterize the transistor intrinsic and construct a large‐signal model. The validity of the developed modeling approach is verified by comparing its small‐signal and large‐signal (single‐tone and two‐tone) simulations with measured data of a 2‐mm GaN HEMT on Si substrate. The model has been employed for designing a class‐AB power amplifier. A very good agreement between the amplifier simulation and measurement shows the validity of the model. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cold‐shock based method to induce the discharge of extrusomes in ciliated protists and its efficiency
Authors: Buonanno Federico , Ortenzi Claudio
Published: September 2015

Extrusomes are ejectable organelles in protists, which are able to discharge their contents to the outside of the cell in response to external stimuli. It is known that a large number of extrusomes functions as organelles for offense or defense in predator‐prey interactions among protists and/or microinvertebrates. To date, the main approach to study these interactions was to compare artificially‐induced extrusome‐deficient cells with normal cells as prey for predators. Commonly applied methods to obtain extrusome‐deficient cells use external chemicals, which could alter the viability of cells and/or interfere with the subsequent analysis of the substances (secondary metabolites) contained in the extrusomes. The cold‐shock based method here presented has proven to be effective to remove different kinds of extrusomes from several protist species without harming the treated cells and without adding external reagents. This method could be also useful to simplify the related analysis of the chemical nature of the secreted secondary metabolites.
Spatial and temporal characteristics of summer precipitation events spanning different numbers of days over Asia
Authors: Liu Ge , Wu Renguang
Published: September 2015

Considering the physical connections with circulation systems of different life cycles, precipitation events are classified based on their durations (the number of consecutive days with significant precipitation). By analysing spatial and temporal characteristics of summer precipitation events of different types over Asia, the present study indicates that weather systems with different life cycles predominate over different regions of Asia and control the occurrence of precipitation events of different types and their respective contributions to precipitation days and amount. Mid‐high latitude blockings govern the North Asian region and result in more long duration (over‐8‐day) events contributing a non‐negligible part to total number of precipitation days (NOPDs) and precipitation amount. Synoptic weather processes induce more short duration events and increase the fractional contribution of short duration events over the central Asian region. Persistent Asian monsoon‐related circulations and intermittent intrusions of cold air flows from the north produce long (over‐14‐day) and short (3‐to 5‐day) duration events, respectively, which contribute a high percentage over southern China. The Indian summer monsoon and the topographic effect jointly cause more over‐14‐day events and make a larger contribution over the west coast of the Indian Peninsula. The mean intensity of different events, as well as intense precipitation events, has obvious regional dependence and is affected by different weather systems and topographic effects. The interdecadal changes in total NOPDs and the regrouping of events with different durations and intensities are both responsible for the interdecadal increases in total precipitation amount over Northeast China and the upper reaches of the Yangtze River valley around the late 1970s and that over southern China around 1993.The interdecadal decrease in precipitation over southern China around the late 1970s is primarily attributed to the regrouping of different events rather than the changing NOPDs.
Biological reaction to polyethylene particles in a murine calvarial model is highly influenced by age
Authors: Langlois Jean , Zaoui Amine , Bichara David A. , Nich Christophe , Bensidhoum Morad , Petite Hervé , Muratoglu Orhun K. , Hamadouche Moussa
Published: September 2015

Particle‐induced osteolysis is driven by multiple factors including bone metabolism, inflammation, and age. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of age on polyethylene (PE) particle‐induced osteolysis in a murine calvarial model comparing 2‐month‐old (young) versus 24‐month‐old (old) mice. After PE particle implantation, calvaria were assessed at days (D) 3, D7, D14, and D21 via chemoluminescent imaging for inflammation (L‐012 probe). In addition micro‐computed tomography (micro‐CT) and histomorphometry end points addressed the bone reaction. Inflammation peaked at D7 in young mice and D14 in old mice. Using micro‐CT, a nadir of mature bone was recorded at D7 for young mice, versus D21 for old mice. Besides, regenerating bone peaked at distinct timepoints: D7 for young mice versus D21 for old mice. In the young mice group, the histomorphometric findings correlated with micro‐CT regenerating bone findings at D7, associated with ample osteoïd deposition. No osteoïd could be histologically quantified in the old mice group at D7. This study demonstrated that the biological reaction to polyethylene particles is highly influenced by age. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:574–580, 2016.
Effect of calcium chloride treatments on calcium content, anthracnose severity and antioxidant activity in papaya fruit during ambient storage
Authors: Madani Babak , Mirshekari Amin , Yahia Elhadi
Published: September 2015

BACKGROUND

There have been no reports on the effects of preharvest calcium application on anthracnose disease severity, antioxidant activity and cellular changes during ambient storage of papaya, and therefore the objective of this study was to investigate these effects.

RESULTS

Higher calcium concentrations (1.5 and 2% w/v) increased calcium concentration in the peel and pulp tissues, maintained firmness, and reduced anthracnose incidence and severity. While leakage of calcium‐treated fruit was lower for 1.5 and 2% calcium treatments compared to the control, microscopic results confirmed that pulp cell wall thickness was higher after 6 days in storage, for the 2% calcium treatment compared to the control. Calcium‐treated fruit also had higher total antioxidant activity and total phenolic compounds during storage.

CONCLUSION

Calcium chloride, especially at higher concentrations, is effective in maintaining papaya fruit quality during ambient storage. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
The attenuation of current‐ and wave‐driven flow within submerged multispecific vegetative canopies
Authors: Weitzman Joel S. , Zeller Robert B. , Thomas Florence I. M. , Koseff Jeffrey R.
Published: September 2015

Historically, submerged vegetative canopies have either been reported as or modeled after unispecific examples—communities comprised of only a single vegetative species or element type. Field surveys of a shallow Florida Bay seagrass meadow highlighted a more diverse benthic landscape. Although dominated by Thalassia testudinum, the communities were distinctly multispecific, composed of a mixture of both plant and algal species. Strap‐like seagrass elements defined the upper portion of these canopies (the upperstory) while broad‐bodied algal species were found concentrated close to the bed (the understory). To predict the hydrodynamic implications of this dual‐story canopy structure, we derived a new canopy flow attenuation model, formulated to account for vertical canopy heterogeneities like those seen at our field site. The model was validated through a series of laboratory experiments: multispecific canopy mimics were installed in a current‐wave flume and exposed to a range of unidirectional and oscillatory flows. Mean and fluctuating velocity was measured above and within each canopy to determine vegetation‐induced flow attenuation. Velocities near the bed were markedly reduced through the addition of understory elements, results that were consistent with model predictions. These findings suggest that accurate prediction of flow‐regulated processes like sediment transport and propagule dissemination depends on a thorough accounting of community composition. These properties are also expected to change in response to seasonal variability and episodic environmental stresses.
The Neuropsychiatric and Motor Profile of GBA‐Associated Parkinson's Disease: A Review
Authors: Pal Gian , Robertson Erin , O'Keefe Joan , Hall Deborah
Published: September 2015

Background

Cognitive and motor decline, along with psychiatric symptoms, have a major impact on independence, nursing home admission, caregiver burden, and mortality in Parkinson's disease (PD). The single most common genetic risk factor for developing PD is a mutation in the glucocerebrosidase (GBA) gene.

Methods

This work is a literature review regarding “GBA” and “Parkinson's disease” as conducted by PubMed search.

Results

There is a higher prevalence of cognitive decline and more rapid trajectory of disease progression in PD‐GBA carriers, compared to noncarriers. PD‐GBA carriers also have domain‐specific cognitive impairment, particularly in visual memory tasks. PD‐GBA carriers may also have a more aggressive motor phenotype than noncarriers.

Conclusions

Early identification of PD‐GBA carriers may lead to targeted therapies and development of new treatments.
Predictable Risk Factors for the Feeling of Presence in Patients with Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Kataoka Hiroshi , Ueno Satoshi
Published: September 2015

Background

The detailed relations between feeling of presence (FOP) and hallucinations remain uncertain in Parkinson's disease (PD). The prospective studies of risk factors predicting the onset of FOP have yet to be reported on. We prospectively investigated risk factors for FOP to identify factors related to the development of first‐onset hallucinations from FOP in patients with PD who were followed up for 2 years.

Methods

From among the 100 consecutive patients, we registered 78 patients with PD. Once every 1 to 3 months, the same sole interviewer personally asked these patients during 2 years of follow‐up. Seventeen independent variables were evaluated using multivariate logistic regression analysis using forced entry.

Results

Seventeen patients newly presented with FOP. In 7 patients, hallucinations developed after the onset of FOP. Twenty‐six patients newly presented with visual hallucinations. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, the score for UPDRS part 4 (odds ratio [OR] = 1.413; P = 0.049; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.002–1.991) and an increase in dose of antiparkinsonian medications (OR = 0.132; P = 0.033; 95% CI = 0.021–0.846) were related to onset of FOP. Zung depression score (P = 0.017) differed significantly between patients who had FOP without hallucinations and those who had FOP with hallucinations (39.2 ± 5.21 and 46.25 ± 2.86, respectively).

Conclusion

Motor complications and increasing doses of antiparkinsonian medications may predict onset of FOP, and depression might be helpful for predicting the future development of hallucinations from FOP.
Cerebral multifrequency MR elastography by remote excitation of intracranial shear waves
Authors: Fehlner Andreas , Papazoglou Sebastian , McGarry Matthew D. , Paulsen Keith D. , Guo Jing , Streitberger Kaspar‐Josche , Hirsch Sebastian , Braun Jürgen , Sack Ingolf
Published: September 2015

The aim of this study was to introduce remote wave excitation for high‐resolution cerebral multifrequency MR elastography (mMRE). mMRE of 25–45‐Hz drive frequencies by head rocker stimulation was compared with mMRE by remote wave excitation based on a thorax mat in 12 healthy volunteers. Maps of the magnitude |G*| and phase φ of the complex shear modulus were reconstructed using multifrequency dual elasto‐visco (MDEV) inversion. After the scan, the subjects and three operators assessed the comfort and convenience of cerebral mMRE using two methods of stimulating the brain. Images were acquired in a coronal view in order to identify anatomical regions along the spinothalamic pathway. In mMRE by remote actuation, all subjects and operators appreciated an increased comfort and simplified procedural set‐up. The resulting strain amplitudes in the brain were sufficiently large to analyze using MDEV inversion, and yielded high‐resolution viscoelasticity maps which revealed specific anatomical details of brain mechanical properties: |G*| was lowest in the pons (0.97 ± 0.08 kPa) and decreased within the corticospinal tract in the caudal–cranial direction from the crus cerebri (1.64 ± 0.26 kPa) to the capsula interna (1.29 ± 0.14 kPa). By avoiding onerous mechanical stimulation of the head, remote excitation of intracranial shear waves can be used to measure viscoelastic parameters of the brain with high spatial resolution. Therewith, the new mMRE method is suitable for neuroradiological examinations in the clinic. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
19 F MRSI of capecitabine in the liver at 7 T using broadband transmit–receive antennas and dual‐band RF pulses
Authors: van Gorp Jetse S. , Seevinck Peter R. , Andreychenko Anna , Raaijmakers Alexander J. E. , Luijten Peter R. , Viergever Max A. , Koopman Miriam , Boer Vincent O. , Klomp Dennis W. J.
Published: September 2015

Capecitabine (Cap) is an often prescribed chemotherapeutic agent, successfully used to cure some patients from cancer or reduce tumor burden for palliative care. However, the efficacy of the drug is limited, it is not known in advance who will respond to the drug and it can come with severe toxicity. 19 F Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) and Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopic Imaging (MRSI) have been used to non‐invasively study Cap metabolism in vivo to find a marker for personalized treatment. In vivo detection, however, is hampered by low concentrations and the use of radiofrequency (RF) surface coils limiting spatial coverage. In this work, the use of a 7T MR system with radiative multi‐channel transmit–receive antennas was investigated with the aim of maximizing the sensitivity and spatial coverage of 19 F detection protocols. The antennas were broadband optimized to facilitate both the 1H (298 MHz) and 19 F (280 MHz) frequencies for accurate shimming, imaging and signal combination. B1+ simulations, phantom and noise measurements showed that more than 90% of the theoretical maximum sensitivity could be obtained when using B1+ and B1− information provided at the 1H frequency for the optimization of B1+ and B1− at the 19 F frequency. Furthermore, to overcome the limits in maximum available RF power, whilst ensuring simultaneous excitation of all detectable conversion products of Cap, a dual‐band RF pulse was designed and evaluated. Finally, 19 F MRS(I) measurements were performed to detect 19 F metabolites in vitro and in vivo. In two patients, at 10 h (patient 1) and 1 h (patient 2) after Cap intake, 19 F metabolites were detected in the liver and the surrounding organs, illustrating the potential of the set‐up for in vivo detection of metabolic rates and drug distribution in the body. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dynamic correlations between hemodynamic, metabolic, and neuronal responses to acute whole‐brain ischemia
Authors: Taylor Jennifer M. , Zhu Xiao‐Hong , Zhang Yi , Chen Wei
Published: September 2015

Cerebral ischemia sets off a cascade of neuronal and metabolic responses to preserve brain viability. An understanding of the temporal evolution of these changes during and after ischemia, and their correlation with hemodynamic changes, is essential. In this study, a 12‐min whole‐brain ischemia based on the four‐blood‐vessel occlusion model was employed in rats. Using a high‐temporal‐resolution simultaneous 1H–31P MRS acquisition sequence at 9.4 T, we investigated dynamic occlusion and reperfusion responses in cerebral lactate (Lac), phosphocreatine (PCr), adenosine triphosphate (ATP), pH, and blood oxygenation level dependence (BOLD), together with changes in neuronal field potential activity. We reveal tightly coupled dynamics between hemodynamic, metabolic, and neuronal responses to ischemia. Neuronal activity, BOLD, PCr, Lac, and pH changed immediately following occlusion, indicating reduced energy substrates and consumption, and increased glycolysis to maintain cellular ATP levels, which started to decrease 2.2 min after the onset of occlusion. ATP stores were then gradually consumed to maintain a minimum housekeeping neuronal activity level. By correlating dynamic changes of brain activity, BOLD, and energy metabolism, new insights into the brain's survival ability and mechanisms during an acute ischemic attack from the perspectives of cerebral metabolism, neuroenergetics, and neuronal activity were gained. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hepatitis B Virus Seroprevalence Among Children With Cancer in Sudan
Authors: Abdalla Mohammed , Hamad Tarig
Published: September 2015

Background

The seroprevalence of hepatitis B among children with cancer in Sudan is unknown. The aim of this study was to detect the seroprevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in children with malignancy and its correlation with different risk factors.

Procedure

This study included 178 children with malignancy presenting to the Radioisotope Center in Khartoum during the period of May–July 2011. Sixty‐four healthy children served as controls. Sera from patients and controls were investigated for HBV total anti‐core antibody, HBV surface antigen (HBsAg), and HBV e antigen (HBeAg).

Results

HBV total anti‐core antibody was positive in 71/178 (39.9%), HBsAg was positive in 38 (21.3%), and HBeAg was positive in 19 (10.7%). Blood product transfusion, surgical exposure, chemotherapy, malignancy type, and sex did not affect the seroprevalence of HBV in this study. Vaccinated children had reduced rates of exposure compared to non‐vaccinated patients.

Conclusion

There is a high seroprevalence of HBV in children with malignancies in Sudan. Vaccination appears to play a major protective role. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2015; 9999:1–3 © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Preoperative Treatment With Pazopanib in a Case of Chemotherapy‐Resistant Infantile Fibrosarcoma
Authors: Yanagisawa Ryu , Noguchi Masahiko , Fujita Kenya , Sakashita Kazuo , Sano Kenji , Ogiso Yoshifumi , Katsuyama Yoshihiko , Kondo Yoshiaki , Komori Kazutoshi , Fujihara Ikuko , Kitamura Rei , Hiroma Takehiko , Nakamura Tomohiko
Published: September 2015

Clinical and radiological diagnosis of infantile fibrosarcoma (IFS) is challenging because of its similarity to vascular origin tumors. Treatment involves complete resection. Although chemotherapy may allow more conservative resection, treatment guidelines are not strictly defined. One IFS patient with an unresectable tumor had disease progression during chemotherapy. A primary tumor sample showed high VEGFR‐1/2/3 and PDGFR‐α/β expression. After pazopanib therapy, most tumor showed necrosis within 29 days and could be removed completely, with no relapse in 8 months post‐resection. When IFS features hypervascularity, VEGFR and PDGFR expression may be high, thus allowing consideration of VEGFR inhibitors such as pazopanib. Pediatr Blood Cancer © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Does Routine Imaging of Patients for Progression or Relapse Improve Survival in Rhabdomyosarcoma?
Authors: Lin Jody L. , Guillerman R. Paul , Russell Heidi V. , Lupo Philip J. , Nicholls Lauren , Okcu M. Fatih
Published: September 2015

Background

Patients with rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) who complete therapy typically undergo 4 years of surveillance imaging despite lack of evidence that this improves outcomes. We compared overall survival (OS) between patients in whom progression or relapse was detected by routine clinical evaluation or by imaging.

Procedure

Children with progressive or relapsed RMS treated at Texas Children's Hospital between 1992 and 2012 were identified and their records were reviewed. Survival time after progression or relapse was compared between two groups: (1) patients in whom progression or relapse was suspected on the basis of clinical history, symptoms, laboratory evaluation, or physical exam; and (2) patients whose progression or relapse was initially detected by imaging.

Results

Of the 43 children with progressive or relapsed RMS, 26 (60%) had metastatic disease at diagnosis and 19 (44%) had alveolar histology. With a median follow up time of 5 years in six survivors, there was no difference in OS between patients in whom progression or relapse was diagnosed based on imaging (n = 15) or by clinical evaluation (n = 28) (3‐year OS 20% vs. 11%, respectively, P = 0.38). Disease extent, primary site, and risk group at diagnosis were associated with survival after progression or relapse.

Conclusions

Routine surveillance imaging practice should be critically reviewed for children with RMS. Although our findings must be validated by larger studies, they do have substantive implications. Reduced imaging tailored to the risk and pattern of recurrence, associated risks and cost could improve patient quality of life and decrease health‐care expenditure without compromising outcome. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Preclinical Evidence for the Use of Sunitinib Malate in the Treatment of Plexiform Neurofibromas
Authors: Ferguson Michael J. , Rhodes Steven D. , Jiang Li , Li Xiaohong , Yuan Jin , Yang Xianlin , Zhang Shaobo , Vakili Saeed T. , Territo Paul , Hutchins Gary , Yang Feng‐Chun , Ingram David A. , Clapp D. Wade , Chen Shi
Published: September 2015

Purpose

Plexiform neurofibromas (pNF) are pathognomonic nerve and soft tissue tumors of neurofibromatosis type I (NF1), which are highly resistant to conventional chemotherapy and associated with significant morbidity/mortality. Disruption of aberrant SCF/c‐Kit signaling emanating from the pNF microenvironment induced the first ever objective therapeutic responses in a recent phase 2 trial. Sunitinib malate is a potent, highly selective RTK inhibitor with activity against c‐Kit, PDGFR, and VEGFR, which have also been implicated in the pathogenesis of these lesions. Here, we evaluate the efficacy of sunitinib malate in a preclinical Krox20;Nf1flox/− pNF murine model.

Experimental Design

Proliferation, β‐hexosaminidase release (degranulation), and Erk1/2 phosphorylation were assessed in sunitinib treated Nf1+/− mast cells and fibroblasts, respectively. Krox20;Nf1flox/‐ mice with established pNF were treated sunitinib or PBS‐vehicle control for a duration of 12 weeks. pNF metabolic activity was monitored by serial [18F]DG‐PET/CT imaging.

Results

Sunitinib suppressed multiple in vitro gain‐in‐functions of Nf1+/− mast cells and fibroblasts and attenuated Erk1/2 phosphorylation. Sunitinib treated Krox20;Nf1flox/− mice exhibited significant reductions in pNF size, tumor number, and FDG uptake compared to control mice. Histopathology revealed reduced tumor cellularity and infiltrating mast cells, markedly diminished collagen deposition, and increased cellular apoptosis in sunitinib treated pNF.

Conclusions

Collectively, these results demonstrate the efficacy of sunitinib in reducing tumor burden in Krox20;Nf1flox/− mice. These preclinical findings demonstrate the utility of inhibiting multiple RTKs in pNF and provide insights into the design of future clinical trials. Pediatr Blood Cancer © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Skin mucus proteome map of European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax)
Authors: Cordero Héctor , Brinchmann Monica F. , Cuesta Alberto , Meseguer José , Esteban María A.
Published: September 2015

Skin mucus is the first barrier of fish defence. Proteins from skin mucus of European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) were identified by 2DE followed by LC‐MS/MS. From all the identified proteins in the proteome map, we focus on the proteins associated with several immune pathways in fish. Furthermore, the real‐time PCR transcript levels in skin are shown. Proteins found include apolipoprotein A1, calmodulin, complement C3, fucose‐binding lectin, lysozyme and several caspases. To our knowledge, this is the first skin mucus proteome study and further transcriptional profiling of the identified proteins done on this bony fish species. This not only contributes knowledge on the routes involved in mucosal innate immunity, but also establishes a non‐invasive technique based on locating immune markers with a potential use for prevention and/or diagnosis of fish diseases.
Antibacterial poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogels from combined epoxy‐amine and thiol‐ene click reaction
Authors: Zhou Chao , Truong Vinh X. , Qu Yue , Lithgow Trevor , Fu Guodong , Forsythe John S.
Published: September 2015

Antibacterial hydrogels containing quaternary ammonium (QA) groups were prepared via a facile thiol‐ene “click” reaction using multifunctional poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). The multifunctional PEG polymers were prepared by an epoxy‐amine ring opening reaction. The chemical and physical properties of the hydrogels could be tuned with different crosslinking structures and crosslinking densities. The antibacterial hydrogel structures prepared from PEG Pendant QA were less well‐defined than those from PEG Chain‐End QA. Furthermore, functionalization of the PEG‐type hydrogels with QA groups produced strong antibacterial abilities against Staphylococcus aureus, and therefore has the potential to be used as an anti‐infective material for biomedical devices. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 656–667
Synthesis and photovoltaic properties of two‐dimensional copolymers based on novel benzothiadiazole and quinoxaline acceptors with conjugated dithienylbenzothiadiazole pendants
Authors: Huang Yuanshuai , Ye Linglong , Wu Fen , Mei Suli , Chen Huajie , Tan Songting
Published: September 2015

Two novel acceptors of benzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazole and quinoxaline with conjugated dithienylbenzothiadiazole pendants were first designed and synthesized for building efficient photovoltaic copolymers. Based on benzo[1,2‐b;3,4‐b′]dithiophene donors and the two acceptors, two new copolymers have been prepared by Stille coupling polymerization. The resulting copolymers were characterized by 1H NMR, gel permeation chromatography, and thermogravimetric analysis. UV–Visible absorption and cyclic voltammetry measurements indicated that the two copolymers possessed strong and broad absorption in the range of 300–700 nm, and deep‐lying energy levels of highest occupied molecular orbitals. The polymer photovoltaic devices based on benzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazole‐based copolymer/phenyl‐C71‐butyric acid methyl ester exhibited a power conversion efficiency of 2.42%, attributed to its relatively better light‐harvesting ability and active film morphology. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 668–677
Fully transparent nonvolatile resistive polymer memory
Authors: Yu Hwan‐Chul , Kim Moon Young , Lee Jeong‐Sup , Lee Kwang‐Hun , Baeck Kyoung Koo , Kim Kyoung‐Kook , Cho Soohaeng , Chung Chan‐Moon
Published: September 2015

We present a fully transparent nonvolatile resistive polymer memory device based on an anthracene‐containing partially aliphatic polyimide along with indium tin oxide (ITO) top and bottom electrodes. High transmittance of over 90% in the wavelength range of 400 to 800 nm is accomplished with an ITO/polyimide/ITO/glass device. The device shows unipolar write‐once‐read‐many times (WORM) memory behavior with an ON/OFF current ratio of ∼2 × 103, and the ratio remained without any significant degradation for over 104 s. The memory behavior of the device is considered to be governed by trap‐controlled space‐charge limited conduction (SCLC) and local filament formation. Based on molecular simulation of the polyimide, the location of energy states is different from that in the conventional charge transfer (CT) mechanism. Despite the relatively low ON/OFF current ratio, our results can give insight into the development of fully transparent memory device. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 918–925
Flexible transparent fluorinated nanohybrid with innovative heat‐resistance property—new technology proposal for fabrication of transparent materials using “crystalline” polymer
Authors: Mamun Muhammad Abdullah Al , Soutome Youichi , Meng Qi , Fujimori Atsuhiro
Published: September 2015

A new technology for the production of transparent material, using a “crystalline” polymer, is proposed in this study. In addition, a heat‐resistant transparent flexible plastic film with a high hydrophobic surface and a thermal decomposition temperature near 400 °C was created. Partially fluorinated crystalline polymer with switchboard‐type lamellae results high transparency as a consequence of the formation of a high‐density amorphous structure based on high‐temperature drawing just below the melting point at 250 °C. Melt‐compounding with montmorillonite modified by the long‐chain quaternary phosphonium with high coverage induces formation of a nanohybrid that retains transparency and also results in an increase in the thermal degradation temperature by over 50 °C. Through this technology, which results in heat‐resistance, transparency, and flexibility, the nano‐micro‐millimeter structures of solid‐state polymers are hierarchically controlled, which enables the creation of new materials. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2015, 53, 1674–1690
Engineering superior toughness in commercially viable block copolymer modified epoxy resin
Authors: Li Tuoqi , Heinzer Michael J. , Francis Lorraine F. , Bates Frank S.
Published: September 2015

The microstructure and mechanical properties of a block copolymer modified commercial thermoset plastic formed from a bisphenol‐A based epoxy and a bio‐derived amine hardener (Cardolite® NC‐541LV) were investigated. A series of poly(ethylene oxide)‐b‐poly(butylene oxide) (PEO‐PBO) diblock copolymers was synthesized at fixed composition (31 ± 1% by volume PEO) and varying molecular weight expanding on a commercially available PEO‐PBO compound marketed by the Dow Chemical Company under the trade name FORTEGRA™ 100; direct application of any of these block copolymers resulted in little improvement of the poor fracture toughness of the cured material. Modification of the resin formulation and curing protocol led to the development of well‐defined spherical and branched worm‐like micelles containing a PBO core and PEO corona in the cross‐linked products as evidenced by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) measurements. Maximum fracture toughness (K1c) and a ninefold increase in the critical strain energy release rate (G1c) over the unmodified neat epoxy was achieved at 5 wt % loading of intermediate molecular weight PEO‐PBO, without measureable reductions in modulus, glass transition temperature or transparency. This study provides new strategies for engineering improved performance in thermoset materials using block copolymer additives that exhibit challenging mixing thermodynamic characteristics with the component monomers. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2016, 54, 189–204
Confined crystallization in lamellae forming poly(3‐(2′‐ethyl)hexylthiophene) (P3EHT) block copolymers
Authors: Davidson Emily C. , Beckingham Bryan S. , Ho Victor , Segalman Rachel A.
Published: September 2015

Charge transport in poly(3‐alkylthiophene)s (P3AT)s is closely linked to the nanoscale organization of crystallites. Block copolymer morphologies provide an ideal platform to study crystallization as the chain ends are tethered at a known interface in a well‐defined geometry. The impact of soft versus hard confinement on P3EHT crystallization was studied using poly(3‐(2′‐ethyl)hexylthiophene) (P3EHT) containing diblocks with both rubbery poly(methyl acrylate) (PMA) and glassy polystyrene (PS) blocks. Here, P3EHT's lower melting point relative to the commonly studied poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) facilitated its confined crystallization and makes it an ideal model system. While transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) revealed well‐ordered lamellar morphologies both in the melt and post‐crystallization for both sets of diblocks, the glassy blocks inhibit confined crystallization of P3EHT relative to rubbery matrix blocks. Analysis of aligned diblocks by both SAXS and wide angle X‐ray scattering (WAXS) revealed that the P3EHT chain axis aligns perpendicular to domain interfaces, allowing preferential growth of the alkyl‐chain and π–π stacking directions parallel to lamellae. Finally, it was shown that following diblock self‐assembly in the melt, crystallite growth drives expansion of microdomains to match the P3EHT contour length. It was concluded that P3EHT chains adopted an extended conformation within confined crystallites due to the rigid nature of polythiophenes relative to flexible chain crystalline polymers. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2016, 54, 205–215
Uptake and translocation of imidacloprid, clothianidin and flupyradifurone in seed‐treated soybeans
Authors: Stamm Mitchell D , Heng‐Moss Tiffany M , Baxendale Frederick P , Siegfried Blair D , Blankenship Erin E , Nauen Ralf
Published: September 2015

BACKGROUND

Seed treatment insecticides have become a popular management option for early‐season insect control. This study investigated the total uptake and translocation of seed‐applied [14C]imidacloprid, [14C]clothianidin and [14C]flupyradifurone into different plant parts in three soybean vegetative stages (VC, V1 and V2). The effects of soil moisture stress on insecticide uptake and translocation were also assessed among treatments. We hypothesized that (1) uptake and translocation would be different among the insecticides owing to differences in water solubility, and (2) moisture stress would increase insecticide uptake and translocation.

RESULTS

Uptake and translocation did not follow a clear trend in the three vegetative stages. Initially, flupyradifurone uptake was greater than clothianidin uptake in VC soybeans. In V1 soybeans, differences in uptake among the three insecticides were not apparent and unaffected by soil moisture stress. Clothianidin was negatively affected by soil moisture stress in V2 soybeans, while imidacloprid and flupyradifurone were unaffected. Specifically, soil moisture stress had a positive effect on the distribution of flupyradifurone in leaves. This was not observed with the neonicotinoids.

CONCLUSIONS

This study enhances our understanding of the uptake and distribution of insecticides used as seed treatments in soybean. The uptake and translocation of these insecticides differed in response to soil moisture stress. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Particle thickness effect on electromagnetic properties of flake‐shaped FeNi alloy
Authors: Li Wangchang , Zhou Xiang , Ying Yao , Jiang Liqiang , Che Shenglei
Published: September 2015

In this paper, flake‐shaped Fe50Ni50 alloy particles were prepared by mechanical ball milling and subsequent calcination method. The thickness of these particles was studied though different milling time and the electromagnetic (EM) properties were investigated in the frequency range of 30 MHz–1 GHz. The X‐ray diffraction (XRD) patterns were used to investigate the phase formation process with the calcination temperature and demonstrate that the Fe50Ni50 solid solution formed when the particles were calcinated at 900 °C. The thicknesses of the flake‐shaped particles milled for 18, 20, 22, 24 h were about 3, 2.5, 2, and 1 µm, respectively, observed from the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and backscattered electron (BSE). The maximum magnetization (Mmax) at the maximum field (12 kOe) and coercivity (Hc) for the sample milled for 24 h is 111 emu g−1 and 56 Oe. The electromagnetic parameters and microwave absorbing properties are enhanced due to the thickness reduction. The results show that sample milled for 24 h has excellent EM wave absorbing properties and the peak frequency is located at 55 MHz with the reflection value of −39.0 dB for a thickness of d = 5 cm. The flake‐shaped particles are of high practical applications for EM interference/compatibility (EMI/EMC) in radio frequency.
Band gap and broken chirality in single‐layer and bilayer graphene
Authors: Varlet Anastasia , Liu Ming‐Hao , Bischoff Dominik , Simonet Pauline , Taniguchi Takashi , Watanabe Kenji , Richter Klaus , Ihn Thomas , Ensslin Klaus
Published: September 2015

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Chirality is one of the key features governing the electronic properties of single‐ and bilayer graphene: the basics of this concept and its consequences on transport are presented in this review. By breaking the inversion symmetry, a band gap can be opened in the band structures of both systems at the K‐point. This leads to interesting consequences for the pseu‐dospin and, therefore, for the chirality. These consequences can be accessed by investigating the evolution of the Berry phase in such systems. Experimental observations of Fabry–Pérot interference in a dual‐gated bilayer graphene device are finally presented and are used to illustrate the role played by the band gap on the evolution of the pseudospin. The presented results can be attributed to the breaking of the chirality in the energy range close to the gap. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH &Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The k−1 scaling of air temperature spectra in atmospheric surface layer flows
Authors: Li D. , Katul G. G. , Gentine P.
Published: September 2015

A number of atmospheric surface layer (ASL) experiments reported a k−1 scaling in air temperature spectra ETT(k) at low wavenumber k but other experiments did not. Occurrence of this scaling law in ETT(k) in an idealized ASL flow across a wide range of atmospheric stability regimes is investigated theoretically and experimentally using measurements collected above a lake and a grass surface. Experiments reveal a k−1 scaling persisted across different atmospheric stability parameter values (ζ) ranging from mildly unstable to mildly stable conditions (−0.1 < ζ < 0.2). As instability increases, the k−1 scaling vanishes. Based on simplified spectral and co‐spectral budgets and using a Heisenberg eddy viscosity as a closure to the spectral flux transfer term, conditions promoting a k−1 scaling in ETT(k) are identified. Existence of a k−1 scaling is shown to be primarily linked to an imbalance between the production and dissipation rates of half the temperature variance. When −0.1 < ζ < 0.2, such imbalance exhibits weak dependence on ζ and hence z, which is shown to be the main cause for a −1 scaling at low k. As the atmosphere becomes more unstable, the imbalance determined from experiments here are not significantly affected by ζ, thereby negating conditions promoting a −1 scaling in ETT(k). The role of the imbalance between the production and dissipation rates of half the temperature variance in controlling the existence of a −1 scaling suggests that the −1 scaling in ETT(k) does not necessarily concur with the −1 scaling in the spectra of longitudinal velocity Euu(k). This finding explains why some ASL experiments reported k−1 in Euu(k) but not in ETT(k).
Guidelines and recommended terms for expression of stable‐isotope‐ratio and gas‐ratio measurement results
Authors: Coplen Tyler B.
Published: September 2015

To minimize confusion in the expression of measurement results of stable isotope and gas‐ratio measurements, recommendations based on publications of the Commission on Isotopic Abundances and Atomic Weights of the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) are presented. Whenever feasible, entries are consistent with the Système International d'Unités, the SI (known in English as the International System of Units), and the third edition of the International Vocabulary of Basic and General Terms in Metrology (VIM, 3rd edition). The recommendations presented herein are approved by the Commission on Isotopic Abundances and Atomic Weights and are designed to clarify expression of quantities related to measurement of isotope and gas ratios to ensure that quantity equations instead of numerical value equations are used for quantity definitions. Examples of column headings consistent with quantity calculus (also called the algebra of quantities) and examples of various deprecated usages connected with the terms recommended are presented. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
“That Sounds So Cooool”: Entanglements of Children, Digital Tools, and Literacy Practices
Authors: Toohey Kelleen , Dagenais Diane , Fodor Andreea , Hof Linda , Nuñez Omar , Singh Angelpreet , Schulze Liz
Published: September 2015

Many observers have argued that minority language speakers often have difficulty with school‐based literacy and that the poorer school achievement of such learners occurs at least partly as a result of these difficulties. At the same time, many have argued for a recognition of the multiple literacies required for citizens in a 21st century world. In this study the researchers examined a specific case in which English language learners (ELLs) made short videos about sustainability and social justice, to determine the diverse literacy practices such activities entailed. The researchers found that children produced storyboards and scripts, and videos with titles, and engaged in several other literacy activities, discussing what “made sense” in sequencing in a documentary story, what sustainability and social justice meant, how to report on information they had gathered, and so on. They also examined how new materiality theories might assist us in analyzing howELLs engage in digital literacy activities. These theories encourage us to think about how human beings interact with other kinds of materials to accomplish perhaps novel tasks. With respect to language learning, such a view might challenge our conceptions of language and literacy learning. For new materiality theorists, language and literacy cannot be an “out‐there” kind of “thing” that learners put “inside” themselves. Rather, languages and literacies and people and their activities and other materials accompany one another, and are entangled in sociomaterial assemblages that rub up against one another in complex and as yet unpredictable ways.
Aerodynamic and aeroacoustic performance of airfoils with morphing structures
Authors: Ai Qing , Azarpeyvand Mahdi , Lachenal Xavier , Weaver Paul M.
Published: September 2015

Aerodynamic and aeroacoustic performance of airfoils fitted with morphing trailing edges are investigated using a coupled structure/fluid/noise model. The control of the flow over the surface of an airfoil using shape optimization techniques can significantly improve the load distribution along the chord and span lengths whilst minimising noise generation. In this study, a NACA 63‐418 airfoil is fitted with a morphing flap and various morphing profiles are considered with two features that distinguish them from conventional flaps: they are conformal and do not rely on conventional internal mechanisms. A novel design of a morphing flap using a zero Poisson's ratio honeycomb core with tailored bending stiffness is developed and investigated using the finite element model. Whilst tailoring the bending stiffness along the chord of the flap yields large flap deflections, it also enables profile tailoring of the deformed structure which is shown to significantly affect airfoil noise generation. The aeroacoustic behaviour of the airfoil is studied using a semi‐empirical airfoil noise prediction model. Results show that the morphing flap can effectively reduce the airfoil trailing edge noise over a wide range of flow speeds and angles of attack. It is also shown that appropriate morphing profile tailoring improves the effect of morphing trailing edge on the aerodynamic and aeroacoustic performance of the airfoil. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.