bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extensional inheritance and surface processes as controlling factors of mountain belt structure
Authors: Erdős Zoltán , Huismans Ritske S. , van der Beek Peter , Thieulot Cedric
Published: October 2014

Surface processes and inherited structures are widely regarded as factors that strongly influence the evolution of mountain belts. The first‐order effects of these parameters have been studied extensively throughout the last decades, but their relative importance remains notoriously difficult to assess and document. We use lithospheric scale plane‐strain thermomechanical model experiments to study the effects of surface processes and extensional inheritance on the internal structure of contractional orogens and their foreland basins. Extensional inheritance is modeled explicitly by forward modeling the formation of a rift basin before reversing the velocity boundary conditions to model its inversion. Surface processes are modeled through the combination of a simple sedimentation algorithm, where all negative topography is filled up to a prescribed reference level, and an elevation‐dependent erosion model. Our results show that (1) extensional inheritance facilitates the propagation of basement deformation in the retro‐wedge and (2) increases the width of the orogen; (3) sedimentation increases the length scale of both thin‐skinned and thick‐skinned thrust sheets and (4) results in a wider orogen; (5) erosion helps to localize deformation resulting in a narrower orogen and a less well‐developed retro‐wedge. A comparison of the modeled behaviors to the High Atlas, the Pyrenees, and the Central Alps, three extensively studied natural examples characterized by different degrees of inversion, is presented and confirms the predicted controls of surface processes and extensional inheritance on orogenic structure.
Variability of fault slip behavior along the San Andreas Fault in the San Juan Bautista Region
Authors: Taira Taka'aki , Bürgmann Roland , Nadeau Robert M. , Dreger Douglas S.
Published: October 2014

An improved understanding of the time history of fault slip at depth is an essential step toward understanding the underlying mechanics of the faulting process. Using a waveform cross‐correlation approach, we document spatially and temporally varying fault slip along the northernmost creeping section of the San Andreas Fault near San Juan Bautista (SJB), California, by systematically examining spatiotemporal behaviors of characteristically repeating earthquakes (CREs). The spatial distribution of pre‐1998 SJB earthquake (1984–1998) fault slip rate inferred from the CREs reveals a ~15 km long low creep or partially locked section located near the 1998 Mw 5.1 SJB earthquake rupture. A finite‐fault slip inversion reveals that the rupture of the 1998 SJB earthquake is characterized by the failure of a compact ~4 km2 asperity with a maximum slip of about 90 cm and corresponding peak stress drop of up to 50 MPa, whereas the mean stress drop is about 15 MPa. Following the 1998 earthquake, the CRE activity was significantly increased in a 5–10 km deep zone extending 2–7 km northwest of the main shock, which indicates triggering of substantial aseismic slip. The postseismic slip inferred from the CRE activity primarily propagated to the northwest and released a maximum slip of 9 cm. In this 5–10 km depth range, the estimated postseismic moment release is 8.6 × 1016 N m, which is equivalent to Mw 5.22. The aseismic slip distribution following the 1998 earthquake is not consistent with coseismic stress‐driven afterslip but represents a triggered, long‐lasting slow earthquake.
Rock and mineral transformations in a fault zone leading to permanent creep: Interactions between brittle and viscous mechanisms in the San Andreas Fault
Authors: Richard Julie , Gratier Jean‐Pierre , Doan Mai‐Linh , Boullier Anne‐Marie , Renard François
Published: October 2014

Creep processes may relax part of the tectonic stresses in active faults, either by continuous or episodic processes. The aim of this study is to obtain a better understanding of these creep mechanisms and the manner in which they change in time and space. Results are presented from microstructural studies of natural samples collected from San Andreas Fault Observatory at Depth borehole drilled through the San Andreas Fault, which reveal the chronology of the deformation within three domain types. (i) A relatively undeformed zone of the host rock reflects the first step of the deformation process with fracturing and grain indentations showing the coupling between fracturing and pressure solution. (ii) Shear deformation development that associates fracturing and solution cleavage processes leads to profound changes in rock composition and behavior with two types of development depending on the ratio between the amount of dissolution and deposition: abundant mineral precipitation strengthens some zones while pervasive dissolution weakens some others, (iii) zones with mainly dissolution trended toward the present‐day creeping zones thanks to both the passive concentration of phyllosilicates and their metamorphic transformation into soft minerals such as saponite. This study shows how interactions between brittle and viscous mechanisms lead to widespread transformation of the rocks and how a shear zone may evolve from a zone prone to earthquakes and postseismic creep to a zone of steady state creep. In parallel, the authors discuss how the creeping mechanism, mainly controlled by the very low friction of the saponite in the first 3–4 km depth, may evolve with depth.
Regional climate modeling over China with COSMO‐CLM: Performance assessment and climate projections
Authors: Bucchignani Edoardo , Montesarchio Myriam , Cattaneo Luigi , Manzi Maria Paola , Mercogliano Paola
Published: October 2014

This study presents the results of high‐resolution (0.125°) climate simulations over a Chinese area performed with an optimized configuration of the regional climate model COSMO‐CLM, driven by ERA‐Interim Reanalysis over the period 1979–2011 and by the output of the global model CMCC‐CM (resolution 0.75°) over the period 1979–2100. The main aim of this work was to analyze the capabilities of COSMO‐CLM to describe the climate of China in the recent past; validation revealed a good improvement in reproducing the precipitation and a reasonable improvement in 2 m temperature representation compared to results reported elsewhere. Climate projections, under the new IPCC RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 emission scenarios, show a significant warming expected in China over the 21st century, while precipitation changes are expected only on a regional scale: increases in precipitation are projected for both scenarios in the northern part of the domain, while the southern area will be affected by a reduction in winter.
Siberian tundra ecosystem vegetation and carbon stocks four decades after wildfire
Authors: Loranty Michael M. , Natali Susan M. , Berner Logan T. , Goetz Scott J. , Holmes Robert M. , Davydov Sergei P. , Zimov Nikita S. , Zimov Sergey A.
Published: October 2014

Tundra ecosystem fire regimes are intensifying with important implications for regional and global carbon (C) and energy dynamics. Although a substantial portion of the tundra biome is located in Russia, the vast majority of accessible studies describe North American tundra fires. Here we use field observations and high‐resolution satellite remote sensing observations to describe the effects of wildfire on ecosystem C pools and vegetation communities four decades after fire for a tundra ecosystem in northeastern Siberia. Our analyses reveal no differences between soil physical properties and C pools in burned and unburned tundra, which we attribute to low combustion of organic soil associated with low‐severity fire. Field and remote sensing data show no differences in aboveground C pools and vegetation communities indicating recovery to prefire conditions. These results are comparable to observations of ecosystem recovery in North American tundra. An assessment of literature data indicate that the average annual area burned in Russian tundra is an order of magnitude larger than that of Alaskan tundra, highlighting a crucial need to assess Russian tundra fire regimes in order to understand the current and future role of the biome wide fire regime in regional and global C and energy dynamics.
Ultrabroadband Plasmonic Absorber for Terahertz Waves
Authors: Cheng Yong Zhi , Withayachumnankul Withawat , Upadhyay Aditi , Headland Daniel , Nie Yan , Gong Rong Zhou , Bhaskaran Madhu , Sriram Sharath , Abbott Derek
Published: October 2014

Perfect absorbers that exhibit broadband absorption of terahertz radiation are promising for applications in imaging and detection due to enhanced contrast and sensitivity in this relatively untapped frequency regime. Here, terahertz plasmonics is used to demonstrate near‐unity absorption across a broad spectral range. The absorber comprises a planar array of cross‐shaped structures defined by surface etching of doped silicon. Absorbance of over 90% is observed numerically with a relative bandwidth of 90% from 0.67 to 1.78 THz, in reasonable agreement with experimental observation. This ultrabroadband absorption is attributed to two resonance modes supported by plasmonic cavities that are defined by the etched cross structure. This terahertz absorber is single‐layered, polarization‐insensitive, and exhibits consistent performance across a wide range of incidence angles. The plasmonic‐based approach for enhancing absorption is a potential precursor to the realization of efficient bolometric imaging and communications at terahertz frequencies.
Prevalence, trends, and determinants of menopause in India: NFHS 1992–93 to NFHS 2005–06
Authors: Mozumdar Arupendra , Agrawal Praween K.
Published: October 2014

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of menopause in three rounds of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS), determine correlates of menopause, and estimate the age of start of menopause in Indian women.

Methods

Three rounds of NFHS data collected during 1992–93, 1998–99, and 2005–06 were analyzed. The NFHS was carried out using a uniform sample design all over the country. Age adjusted complex sample analyses, multivariate logistic regression, and probit analysis were carried out.

Results

The prevalence of menopause (natural and surgical) remained similar from 1992–93 to 2005–06 among Indian women. A higher prevalence and earlier onset of menopause was associated with farming, no education, belonging to a scheduled caste or scheduled tribe, underweight, higher parity, and motherhood before 16 years of age. The age of the start of menopause did not increase much from the first to third round of NFHS.

Conclusions

Women of poor socio‐economic status have an earlier age at menopause and may be unable to utilize their full reproductive potential. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 27:421–425, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Asthma and respiratory symptoms among hairdressers in Denmark: Results from a register based questionnaire study
Authors: Lysdal Susan Hovmand , Mosbech Holger , Johansen Jeanne Duus , Søsted Heidi
Published: October 2014

Background

Hairdressers are at risk of developing occupational respiratory disorders due to persulfates and other hairdressing chemicals.

Methods

A register based questionnaire study comprising 7,840 graduates from hairdressing vocational schools was conducted. The postal questionnaire concerned self‐reported asthma, airway symptoms, occupation, smoking, and atopic dermatitis.

Results

A response rate of 67.9% was obtained. The hairdressers reported asthma (11.2%), cough (25.3%), nasal congestion (24.0%), and rhinitis (18.2%). Less than 1/3 of all hairdressers with suspected occupational asthma reported their asthma as an occupational disease to the authorities. In total, 27.3% were daily smokers; the smoking pattern was similar between hairdressers with and without asthma. Local exhaust ventilation was only used consistently by 63.8% for permanent waving and hair coloring procedures.

Conclusions

Asthma and especially respiratory symptoms were commonly reported by hairdressers, but rarely reported as an occupational disease. Local exhaust ventilation was inconsistently used. Our results underline the need for improved measures to ascertain and prevent occupational asthma in hairdressers. Am. J. Ind. Med. 57:1368–1376, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
No evidence of association between common European mitochondrial DNA variants in Alzheimer, Parkinson, and migraine in the Spanish population
Authors: Fachal Laura , Mosquera‐Miguel Ana , Pastor Pau , Ortega‐Cubero Sara , Lorenzo Elena , Oterino‐Durán Agustín , Toriello María , Quintáns Beatriz , Camiña‐Tato Montse , Sesar Angel , Vega Ana , Sobrido María‐Jesús , Salas Antonio
Published: October 2014

Certain mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variants and haplogroups have been found to be associated with neurological disorders. Several studies have suggested that mtDNA variation could have an etiologic role in these disorders by affecting the ATP production on high‐energy demanding organs, such as the brain. We have analyzed 15 mtDNA SNPs (mtSNPs) in five cohorts of cases presenting Alzheimer disease (AD), Parkinson disease (PD), and migraine, and in controls, to evaluate the role mtDNA variation in disease risk. Association tests were undertaken both for mtSNPs and mitochondrial haplogroups. No significant association was detected for any mtSNP or haplogroup in AD and PD cohorts. Two mtSNPs were associated with one migraine cohort after correcting for multiple tests, namely, T4216C and G13708A and haplogroup J (FDR q‐value = 0.02; Santiago's cohort). However, this association was not confirmed in a second replication migraine series. A review of the literature reveals the existence of inconsistent findings and methodological shortcomings affecting a large proportion of mtDNA association studies on AD, PD, and migraine. A detailed inspection of the literature highlights the need for performing more rigorous methodological and statistical standards in mtDNA genetic association studies aimed to avoid false positive results of association between mtDNA variants and neurological diseases. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Copper(II)‐Responsive “Off‐On” Chemosensor Based on a Naphthalimide Derivative
Authors: Yu Chunwei , Zhang Jun
Published: October 2014

An easily accessible fluorescent chemosensor bearing a naphthalimide group has been designed. The chemosensor is highly selective and sensitive for Cu2+ ions in ethanol‐water solution compared with other tested metal ions and anions. The chemosensor, which contains a CN group, fluoresces weakly when excited at 340 nm. Upon addition of Cu2+ ions, a fluorescent enhancement is observed with emission at λem=433 nm, and no such significant changes are found with other metal ions and anions. With optimized conditions, the linear fluorescence enhancement of the sensor towards Cu2+ ions is in the range of 0.05–1.5 μM with a detection limit of 0.025 μM.
Effective thermal conductivity and thermal properties of phthalonitrile‐terminated poly(arylene ether nitriles) composites with hybrid functionalized alumina
Authors: Liu Mengdie , Jia Kun , Liu Xiaobo
Published: October 2014

A polymer‐based thermal conductive composite has been developed. It is based on a dispersion of micro‐ and nanosized alumina (Al2O3) in the phthalonitrile‐terminated poly (arylene ether nitriles) (PEN‐t‐ph) via solution casting method. The Al2O3 with different particle sizes were functionalized with phthalocyanine (Pc) which was used as coupling agent to improve the compatibility of Al2O3 and PEN‐t‐ph matrix. The content of microsized functionalized Al2O3 (m‐f‐Al2O3) maintained at 30 wt % to form the main thermally conductive path in the composites, and the nanosized functionalized Al2O3 (n‐f‐Al2O3) act as connection role to provide additional channels for the heat flow. The thermal conductivity of the f‐Al2O3/PEN‐t‐ph composites were investigated as a function of n‐f‐Al2O3 loading. Also, a remarkable improvement of the thermal conductivity from 0.206 to 0.467 W/mK was achieved at 30 wt % n‐f‐Al2O3 loading, which is nearly 2.7‐fold higher than that of pure PEN‐t‐ph polymer. Furthermore, the mechanical testing reveals that the tensile strength increased from 99 MPa for pure PEN‐t‐ph to 105 MPa for composites with 30 wt % m‐f‐Al2O3 filler loading. In addition, the PEN‐t‐ph composites possess excellent thermal properties with glass transition temperature (Tg) above 184°C, and initial degradation temperature (Tid) over 490°C. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41595.
Structure and properties of ultra‐high molecular weight bisphenol a polycarbonate synthesized by solid‐state polymerization in amorphous microlayers
Authors: Baick In Hak , Yang Woo Jic , Ahn Yun Gyong , Song Kwang Ho , Choi Kyu Yong
Published: October 2014

The structure and properties of ultrahigh molecular weight polycarbonate synthesized by solid‐state polymerization in micro‐layers (SSPm) are reported. A low molecular weight prepolymer derived from the melt transesterification of bisphenol A and diphenyl carbonate as a starting material was polymerized to highly amorphous and transparent polycarbonate of molecular weight larger than 300,000 g mol−1 in the micro‐layers of thickness from 50 nm to 20 µm. It was observed that when the polymerization time in micro‐layers was extended beyond conventional reaction time, insoluble polymer fraction increased up to 95%. Through the analysis of both soluble and insoluble polymer fractions of the high molecular weight polycarbonate by 1H NMR spectroscopy and pyrolysis‐gas chromatography mass spectrometry (Py‐GC/MS), branches and partially crosslinked structures have been identified. The thermal, mechanical and rheological properties of the ultra‐high molecular weight nonlinear polycarbonates synthesized in this study have been measured by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and rheometry. The nonlinear chain structures of the polymer have been found to affect the polymer's thermal stability, mechanical strength, shear thinning effect, and elastic properties. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41609.
Modification of microfiltration membranes by hydrogel impregnation for pDNA purification
Authors: Castilho Pedro H. , Correia Tiago R. , Pessoa de Amorim Maria T. , Escobar Isabel C. , Queiroz João A. , Correia Ilídio J. , Morão António M.
Published: October 2014

The huge efforts for the achievement of highly purified biomolecules are growing every day. A great number of efficient techniques, such as chromatography, are already available in laboratory for separation processes. However, membrane‐based technologies are the best match to assure simplicity, efficiency and easy scale‐up procedures. Herein we report the modification of a commercial microfiltration membrane for plasmid DNA purification by agarose gel impregnation. The membrane was characterized by SEM, ATR‐FTIR, EDS, contact angle, and porosity measurements. Additionally, the membrane pore radius was estimated from observed rejections of different proteins and with that information the rejection of a 6050 bp plasmid DNA (pDNA) molecule was estimated for different values of flux using a theoretical model of large flexible molecules in membranes with parallel cylindrical pores, which is applicable to pDNA ultrafiltration in conventional membranes, as recently shown in the literature. The experimental results show that the modified membrane has higher pDNA rejections than the predicted by the model, suggesting that the different type of porous structure that a hydrogel has, may have a positive effect on pDNA rejections as compared to other biomolecules with more rigid structures, making this type of modified membranes potential better candidates to be used for the selective recovery of pDNA in this type of bioprocesses. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41610.
Synthesis and application of cotton‐based chelate fibers grafted with poly(1‐vinyl‐1,2,4‐triazole) side chains
Authors: Meng Xiangying , Yu Bing , Cong Hailin , Shuai Li , Yuan Hua , Xu Xiaodan , Xu Shaohui
Published: October 2014

Cotton‐based chelate fibers grafted with poly(1‐vinyl‐1,2,4‐triazole) (PVTAZ) side chains were synthesized facilely by ozone‐induced graft polymerization of 1‐vinyl‐1,2,4‐triazole (VTAZ) monomer onto cotton fibers. The synthesis conditions were optimized to improve the yield and mechanical strength of the products. The obtained cotton‐g‐PVTAZ fibers were characterized and evaluated for batch adsorption of heavy metal ions from aqueous solutions. The maximum adsorption capacity of Ag(I), Pb(II), and Cu(II) on the fibers at pH 6.8 was 522, 330, and 184 mg/g, respectively. At 30% graft yield, the Young's modulus of cotton fiber increased about 26.5%, and its adsorption capacities of Ag(I), Pb(II), and Cu(II) increased about 2.6, 1.9, and 1.4 times, respectively. After washed with 0.1 mol/L HNO3 solutions, the adsorbed metal ions were eluted, and the regenerated cotton‐g‐PVTAZ fibers could be used repeatedly for water treatment. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41617.
Oxidative solution polymerization of aniline hydrochloride onto electrospun nanofibers mats of polylactic acid: Preparation method and characterization
Authors: Al‐Jallad Mazen , Atassi Yomen , Mounif Eskandar , Aressy Matthieu , Tcharkhtchi Abbas
Published: October 2014

In this work, we present the preparation of polylactic acid (PLLA)/polyaniline (PANI) conductive composite nanofibers mats. They are prepared by bulk oxidative solution polymerization of PANI onto electrospun non‐woven fibers mats of PLLA. The PANI ratio in the composite is about 70%w/w. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) shows that PLLA nanofibers are randomly oriented, beads free with diameters of 186 ± 85 nm, The PLLA/PANI composite nanofibers diameter values are 518 ± 128 nm with a good adherence between PANI and PLLA nanofibers. DSC and XRD measurements reveal an amorphous structure of the electrospun PLLA fibers due to the rapid evaporization of the solvent. FTIR and UV–vis spectra reflect good mutual interactions between PANI and PLLA chains. The DC‐conductivities (
) far better than other published ones for similar composites prepared by bulk oxidative solution polymerization of PANI onto other electrospun nanofiber mats or with electrospun nanofibers from a solution mixture of PLLA and PANI. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41618.
Current bycatch levels in Auckland Islands trawl fisheries unlikely to be driving New Zealand sea lion (Phocarctos hookeri)population decline
Authors: Hamilton Sheryl , Baker G. Barry
Published: October 2014

New Zealand sea lions are incidentally killed in trawl fisheries around the Auckland Islands with most mortality having been attributed to the Auckland Islands squid fishery. Fishery management measures include the establishment of a 12 nautical mile marine reserve around the Auckland Islands excluding all fishing within that range, the instigation of mortality limits that can trigger spatio‐temporal closures, and widespread use of a ‘Sea Lion Excluder Device’ (SLED) that allows sea lions to escape from a trawl net. Although there has been controversy regarding SLED efficacy, the evidence from numerous research trials and assessments is that SLEDs have contributed to reduced rates of sea lion bycatch in the Auckland Islands squid fishery.

Population viability analysis (PVA) modelling, using VORTEX, of the Auckland Islands New Zealand sea lion population was undertaken to ascertain if the reported levels of bycatch of sea lions in trawl fisheries around the Auckland Islands are sustainable following substantial and effective mitigation to reduce bycatch, particularly in the Auckland Islands squid fishery.

Modelling indicated slow population growth of the Auckland Islands New Zealand sea lion population with current bycatch estimates from all Auckland Islands trawl fisheries. Additional modelling seeking explanations for observed population declines over the last decade indicated that epizootic events that reduce pup production may have a greater impact on population growth, especially if these events are more frequent than previously assumed.

Modelling results suggest that sea lion bycatch in the squid fishery and other trawl fisheries around the Auckland Islands is unlikely to be currently having a significant impact on the Auckland Islands New Zealand sea lion population. Therefore, resources should be directed towards other hypotheses for any continued sea lion population decline as well as continued refinement of mitigation techniques to reduce fisheries‐related mortality.

Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mobile technology: Creation and use of an iBook to teach the anatomy of the brachial plexus
Authors: Stewart Stuart , Choudhury Bipasha
Published: October 2014

In an era of digitally connected students, there is a demand for academic material to be delivered through electronic mobile devices and not just through traditional methods such as lectures and tutorials. A digital interactive book—iBook (for use on the Apple iPad)—was created to teach undergraduate anatomical science students (n = 26) four key areas of the brachial plexus: definitions, gross anatomy, relative anatomy, and functions of terminal branches. Students were asked to complete preresource and postresource questionnaires, which were used to calculate the mean improvement score and ultimately the efficacy of the resource. Free text comments were gathered to evaluate student opinions on this mode of learning. The mean score on the preresource and postresource questionnaires was 4.07 of 8 and 5.69 of 8, respectively. The overall mean improvement score was 1.62, determined statistically significant by a dependent t‐test (P = 0.0004). Findings demonstrate that digital books on the iPad provide a uniquely interactive way of delivering information and engaging students. Furthermore, digital books can be used alongside traditional methods of teaching anatomy to enhance and promote deep learning in students. Anat Sci Educ 8: 429–437. © 2014 American Association of Anatomists.
An improved two‐stage variance balance approach for constructing partial profile designs for discrete choice experiments
Authors: Kessels Roselinde , Jones Bradley , Goos Peter
Published: October 2014

In many discrete choice experiments set up for product innovation, the number of attributes is large, which results in a substantial cognitive burden for the respondents. To reduce the cognitive burden in such cases, Green suggested in the early '70s the use of partial profiles that vary only the levels of a subset of the attributes. In this paper, we present two new methods for constructing Bayesian
‐optimal partial profile designs for estimating main‐effects models. They involve alternative generalizations of Green's approach that makes use of balanced incomplete block designs and take into account the fact that attributes may have differing numbers of levels. We refer to our methods as variance balance I and II because they vary an attribute with a larger number of levels more often than an attribute with fewer levels to stabilize the variances of the individual part‐worth estimates. The two variance balance methods differ in the way attributes with differing numbers of levels are weighted. Both methods provide statistically more efficient partial profile designs for differing numbers of attribute levels than another generalization of Green's approach that does not weight the attributes. This method is called attribute balance. We show results from an actual experiment in software development demonstrating the usefulness of our methods. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multi‐tasking of biosynthetic and energetic functions of glycolysis explained by supply and demand logic
Authors: van Heerden Johan H. , Bruggeman Frank J. , Teusink Bas
Published: October 2014

After more than a century of research on glycolysis, we have detailed descriptions of its molecular organization, but despite this wealth of knowledge, linking the enzyme properties to metabolic pathway behavior remains challenging. These challenges arise from multi‐layered regulation and the context and time dependence of component functions. However, when viewed as a system that functions according to the principles of supply and demand, a simplifying theoretical framework can be applied to study its regulation logic and to assess the coherence of experimental interpretations. These principles are universally applicable, as they emphasize the common metabolic tasks of glycolysis: the provision of free‐energy carriers, and precursors for biosynthesis and stress‐related compounds. Here we will review the regulation of multi‐tasking by glycolysis and consider how an understanding of this central metabolic pathway can be pursued using general principles, rather than focusing on the biochemical details of constituent components.
Histone proteolysis: A proposal for categorization into ‘clipping’ and ‘degradation’
Authors: Dhaenens Maarten , Glibert Pieter , Meert Paulien , Vossaert Liesbeth , Deforce Dieter
Published: October 2014

We propose for the first time to divide histone proteolysis into “histone degradation” and the epigenetically connoted “histone clipping”. Our initial observation is that these two different classes are very hard to distinguish both experimentally and biologically, because they can both be mediated by the same enzymes. Since the first report decades ago, proteolysis has been found in a broad spectrum of eukaryotic organisms. However, the authors often not clearly distinguish or determine whether degradation or clipping was studied. Given the importance of histone modifications in epigenetic regulation we further elaborate on the different ways in which histone proteolysis could play a role in epigenetics. Finally, unanticipated histone proteolysis has probably left a mark on many studies of histones in the past. In conclusion, we emphasize the significance of reviving the study of histone proteolysis both from a biological and an experimental perspective.

Also watch the Video Abstract.
Development of a cataluminescence sensor for detecting benzene based on magnesium silicate hollow spheres
Authors: Wang Yuhuai , Li Bo , Wang Qihui , Shou Zhouxiang
Published: October 2014

A novel and sensitive gas sensor was developed for the determination of benzene based on its cataluminescence (CTL) by oxidation in air on the surface of hollow magnesium silicate spheres. Luminescence characteristics and optimum conditions were investigated. Results indicated that the as‐prepared magnesium silicate hollow spheres exhibited outstanding CTL properties such as stable intensity, high signal/noise values, and short response and recovery times. Under optimized conditions, benzene exhibited a broad linear range of 1–4500 ppm, with a correlation coefficient of 0.9946 and a limit of detection (signal‐to‐noise ratio (S/N) = 3) of 0.6 ppm, which was below the standard permitted concentration. The relative standard deviation (RSD) for 100 ppm benzene was 4.3% (n = 6). Furthermore, the gas sensor system showed outstanding selectivity for benzene compared with nine other common volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The proposed gas sensor showed good characteristics of high selectivity, fast response time and long lifetime, which suggested the promising application of magnesium silicate hollow spheres as a novel highly efficient CTL sensing material. The mechanism for the improved performance was also discussed based on the experimental results. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Expanding frontiers in plant transcriptomics in aid of functional genomics and molecular breeding
Authors: Agarwal Pinky , Parida Swarup K. , Mahto Arunima , Das Sweta , Mathew Iny Elizebeth , Malik Naveen , Tyagi Akhilesh K.
Published: October 2014

The transcript pool of a plant part, under any given condition, is a collection of mRNAs that will pave the way for a biochemical reaction of the plant to stimuli. Over the past decades, transcriptome study has advanced from Northern blotting to RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq), through other techniques, of which real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and microarray are the most significant ones. The questions being addressed by such studies have also matured from a solitary process to expression atlas and marker‐assisted genetic enhancement. Not only genes and their networks involved in various developmental processes of plant parts have been elucidated, but also stress tolerant genes have been highlighted. The transcriptome of a plant with altered expression of a target gene has given information about the downstream genes. Marker information has been used for breeding improved varieties. Fortunately, the data generated by transcriptome analysis has been made freely available for ample utilization and comparison. The review discusses this wide variety of transcriptome data being generated in plants, which includes developmental stages, abiotic and biotic stress, effect of altered gene expression, as well as comparative transcriptomics, with a special emphasis on microarray and RNA‐seq. Such data can be used to determine the regulatory gene networks, which can subsequently be utilized for generating improved plant varieties.
Value of CT–PET after neoadjuvant chemoradiation in the prediction of histological tumour regression, nodal status and survival in oesophageal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Elliott J A , O'Farrell N J , King S , Halpenny D , Malik V , Muldoon C , Johnston C , Reynolds J V
Published: October 2014

Background

The role of CT–PET after neoadjuvant chemoradiation (nCRT) for prediction of pathological response and oncological outcome in oesophageal and junctional adenocarcinoma (OAC) is unclear. The relationship between complete metabolic response (cMR), pathological complete response (pCR) and nodal status has not been clarified.

Methods

Patients with locally advanced OAC selected to receive nCRT and surgery with curative intent, on the basis of staging that included CT–PET positivity, were included. Repeat scanning (PET2) with an identical protocol was performed 2–4 weeks after completion of nCRT (cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil plus 44 Gy radiation). Changes in [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose uptake, considered as either a maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) or a relative reduction (%ΔSUVmax), and PET-predicted nodal status following nCRT were compared with histopathological response, histological node positivity and survival.

Results

One hundred consecutive patients with PET-positive OAC were studied. Following nCRT, PET2 identified M1 disease in 2·0 per cent of patients. There were no significant associations between PET2 SUVmax or %ΔSUVmax with respect to primary tumour stage (ypT) (P = 0.216 and P = 0·975 respectively), tumour regression grade (P = 0·109 and P = 0·232), pCR (P = 0·633 and P = 0·870) or complete resection (R0) (P = 0·440 and P = 0·235). The sensitivity of PET2 for ypN was 10 per cent. %ΔSUVmax was not associated with disease-free or overall survival (P = 0·162 and P = 0·154 respectively). Of 46 patients with a cMR on PET2, 37 (80 per cent) had histological evidence of residual tumour in the resected specimen, and cMR was not associated with overall survival benefit (P = 0·478).

Conclusion

CT–PET following nCRT for OAC has poor prognostic and discriminatory value for clinical application.
Effect of neoadjuvant chemotherapy on resectability of stage III and IV hepatoblastoma
Authors: Venkatramani R , Stein J E , Sapra A , Genyk Y , Jhaveri V , Malogolowkin M , Mascarenhas L
Published: October 2014

Background

The potential for surgical resection of primary hepatoblastoma tumours was assessed at diagnosis, and after two and four cycles of neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

Methods

Available radiographic images for patients with stage III and IV hepatoblastoma diagnosed between 1991 and 2008 were reviewed. The extent of disease was determined at diagnosis using the PRETEXT staging system, and after two and four cycles of therapy by POST-TEXT staging. Tumour resectability based on radiographic studies was assessed independently by two surgeons with expertise in hepatic surgery who were blinded to treatment and clinical outcome.

Results

Radiographic images from 20 patients with hepatoblastoma were reviewed. Six of 20 tumours were downstaged after two cycles, and three additional tumours were downstaged following four cycles. All PRETEXT stage III and IV tumours were determined to be surgically unresectable at diagnosis. The number of tumours considered unresectable decreased from 16 of 20 at diagnosis to seven of 20 after two cycles, and to four of 20 after four cycles. Five of the seven tumours that were unresectable after two cycles, and all four tumours that were unresectable after four cycles would have qualified for liver transplant based on radiographic studies.

Conclusion

The majority of stage III and IV hepatoblastomas achieved radiographic resectability after two cycles of chemotherapy. There may be an opportunity for earlier surgical intervention and potential for a reduction in chemotherapy in a considerable number of patients.
3D interactive model of lumbar spinal structures of anesthetic interest
Authors: Prats‐Galino Alberto , Reina Miguel A. , Mavar Haramija Marija , Puigdellivol‐Sánchez Anna , Juanes Méndez Juan A. , De Andrés José A.
Published: October 2014

A 3D model of lumbar structures of anesthetic interest was reconstructed from human magnetic resonance (MR) images and embedded in a Portable Document Format (PDF) file, which can be opened by freely available software and used offline. The MR images were analyzed using a specific 3D software platform for biomedical data. Models generated from manually delimited volumes of interest and selected MR images were exported to Virtual Reality Modeling Language format and were presented in a PDF document containing JavaScript‐based functions. The 3D file and the corresponding instructions and license files can be downloaded freely at http://diposit.ub.edu/dspace/handle/2445/44844?locale=en. The 3D PDF interactive file includes reconstructions of the L3–L5 vertebrae, intervertebral disks, ligaments, epidural and foraminal fat, dural sac and nerve root cuffs, sensory and motor nerve roots of the cauda equina, and anesthetic approaches (epidural medial, spinal paramedial, and selective nerve root paths); it also includes a predefined sequential educational presentation. Zoom, 360° rotation, selective visualization, and transparency graduation of each structure and clipping functions are available. Familiarization requires no specialized informatics knowledge. The ease with which the document can be used could make it valuable for anatomical and anesthetic teaching and demonstration of patient information. Clin. Anat. 28:205–212, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Electropolymerized Polypyrrole Nanocoatings on Carbon Paper for Electrochemical Energy Storage
Authors: Wei Huige , Wang Yiran , Guo Jiang , Yan Xingru , O'Connor Ryan , Zhang Xin , Shen Nancy Z. , Weeks Brandon L. , Huang Xiaohua , Wei Suying , Guo Zhanhu
Published: October 2014

A highly electrically conductive and uniform polymer film containing small, evenly sized particles was potentiodynamically electropolymerized at a slow scan rate of 50 mV s−1, as compared to the strongly agglomerated and low‐conducting films obtained at higher scan rates of 100 and 200 mV s−1. Cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge–discharge experiments demonstrated a higher areal capacitance, energy density, and power density in the former material. The superior supercapacitive performance was studied by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and can be explained by both a higher electrical conductivity and a facilitated charge transfer in the redox reactions occurring in the former electrode. This work suggests the possibility of fabricating polypyrrole (PPy) pseudocapactive electrodes with high performance via a facile potentiodynamic synthesis at low scan rates. Meanwhile, it provides an alternative to introducing surface functionalities of conductive polymers onto the carbon paper.
Synthesis of Highly Substituted γ‐Butyrolactones by a Gold‐Catalyzed Cascade Reaction of Benzyl Esters
Authors: Blanco Jaimes Maria Camila , Ahrens Alexander , Pflästerer Daniel , Rudolph Matthias , Hashmi A. Stephen K.
Published: October 2014

Easily accessible benzylic esters of 3‐butynoic acids in a gold‐catalyzed cyclization/rearrangement cascade reaction provided 3‐propargyl γ‐butyrolactones with the alkene and the carbonyl group not being conjugated. Crossover experiments showed that the formation of the new CC bond is an intermolecular process. Initially propargylic–benzylic esters were used, but alkyl‐substituted benzylic esters worked equally well. In the case of the propargylic–benzylic products, a simple treatment of the products with aluminum oxide initiated a twofold tautomerization to the allenyl‐substituted γ‐butyrolactones with conjugation of the carbonyl group, the olefin, and the allene. The synthetic sequence can be conducted stepwise or as a one‐pot cascade reaction with similar yields. Even in the presence of the gold catalyst the new allene remains intact.
Supermolecular Columnar Liquid‐Crystalline Phosphorus Dendrimers Decorated with Sulfonamide Derivatives
Authors: Hincapié Cesar Augusto , Sebastián Rosa María , Barberá Joaquín , Serrano José Luis , Sierra Teresa , Majoral Jean‐Pierre , Caminade Anne‐Marie
Published: October 2014

A series of supermolecular liquid crystals has been synthesized by combining phosphorus dendrimers of the zero, first, and fourth generations with sulfonamide derivatives, thus generating dendromesogens bearing 6, 12, and 96 mesogenic units on their surfaces. The relevant reactions could be monitored by 1H, 19F, and 31P{1H} NMR spectroscopies. The thermal and mesomorphic properties of the products have been studied by optical microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and X‐ray diffraction. All of the new macromolecules prepared in this work have been found to show mesomorphic properties over a wide temperature range; moreover, for all of the compounds, the columnar mesophases observed were maintained or vitrified at room temperature. On increasing the generation of these dendromesogens, mesophases appear at lower temperatures and remain stable over a wider temperature interval. In all cases, on the basis of X‐ray analysis, a cylindrical symmetry of the molecules can be proposed to promote the supramolecular columnar arrangement observed in the mesophases. In this type of model, the height of the dendrimer clearly increases with increasing dendrimer generation, whereas its cross‐ sectional area increases only slightly, probably due to compression of the highly hyperbranched structures as a consequence of their progressive steric constraints. The mesomorphic arrangement is governed by the peripheral sulfonamide units.
Geminally Diaurated Aryls Bridged by Semirigid Phosphine Pillars: Syntheses and Electronic Structure
Authors: Browne Amberle R. , Deligonul Nihal , Anderson Bryce L. , Rheingold Arnold L. , Gray Thomas G.
Published: October 2014

Geminally diaurated μ2‐aryl complexes have been prepared where gold(I) centers were bridged by the semirigid diphosphine ligands bis(2‐diphenylphosphinophenyl)ether (DPEphos) and 4,6‐bis(diphenylphosphanyl)dibenzo[b,d]furan (DBFphos). Diaurated complexes were synthesized in ligand redistribution reactions of the corresponding di‐gold dichlorides with di‐gold diaryls (six of them new) and silver(I) salts. Diaurated complexes were isolated as salts of the minimally coordinating anions SbF6− and ReO4−. Efforts to prepare salts of the tetraarylborate [B(3,5‐(CF3)2C6H3)4]− led to transmetalation from boron, with crystallization of the fluorinated aryl complex. The new complexes were characterized by multinuclear NMR, absorption and emission spectroscopies, 77 K emission lifetimes, and by combustion analysis; three are crystallographically characterized. Structures of geminally diaurated aryl ligands are compared to those of mono‐aurated analogues. Both crystal structures and density‐functional theory calculations indicate slight but observable disruptions of aryl ligand aromaticity by geminal di‐gold binding. An intermolecular aurophilic interaction in one structurally authenticated complex was examined computationally.
Distribution of Butane in the Host Water Cage of Structure II Clathrate Hydrates
Authors: Takeya Satoshi , Fujihisa Hiroshi , Hachikubo Akihiro , Sakagami Hirotoshi , Gotoh Yoshito
Published: October 2014

To understand host–guest interactions of hydrocarbon clathrate hydrates, we investigated the crystal structure of simple and binary clathrate hydrates including butane (n‐C4H10 or iso‐C4H10) as the guest. Powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD) analysis using the information on the conformation of C4H10 molecules obtained by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations was performed. It was shown that the guest n‐C4H10 molecule tends to change to the gauche conformation within host water cages. Any distortion of the large 51264 cage and empty 512 cage for the simple iso‐C4H10 hydrate was not detected, and it was revealed that dynamic disorder of iso‐C4H10 and gauche‐nC4H10 were spherically extended within the large 51264 cages. It was indicated that structural isomers of hydrocarbon molecules with different van der Waals diameters are enclathrated within water cages in the same way owing to conformational change and dynamic disorder of the molecules. Furthermore, these results show that the method reported herein is applicable to structure analysis of other host–guest materials including guest molecules that could change molecular conformations.
Mechanistic Study of the Titanocene(III)‐Catalyzed Radical Arylation of Epoxides
Authors: Gansäuer Andreas , von Laufenberg Daniel , Kube Christian , Dahmen Tobias , Michelmann Antonius , Behlendorf Maike , Sure Rebecca , Seddiqzai Meriam , Grimme Stefan , Sadasivam Dhandapani V. , Fianu Godfred D. , Flowers II Robert A.
Published: October 2014

An atom‐economical and catalytic arylation of epoxide‐derived radicals is described. The key step of the catalytic system is a sequential electron and proton transfer for the rearomatization of the radical σ‐complex and catalyst regeneration. Kinetic, computational, spectroscopic, and cyclovoltammetric investigations highlight the key issues of the reaction mechanism and catalyst stabilization by collidine hydrochloride. Studies employing radicophiles rule out the participation of cations as reactive intermediates.
Absolute Asymmetric Synthesis in Enantioselective Autocatalytic Reaction Networks: Theoretical Games, Speculations on Chemical Evolution and Perhaps a Synthetic Option
Authors: Ribó Josep M. , Blanco Celia , Crusats Joaquim , El‐Hachemi Zoubir , Hochberg David , Moyano Albert
Published: October 2014

The Soai reaction and the Viedma deracemization of racemic conglomerate crystal mixtures are experimental pieces of evidence of the ability of enantioselective autocatalytic coupled networks to yield absolute asymmetric synthesis. Thermodynamically open systems or systems with non‐uniform energy distributions may lead to chiral final states and, in systems able to come into thermodynamic equilibrium with their surroundings, to kinetically controlled absolute asymmetric synthesis. The understanding of network parameters and of the thermodynamic scenarios that may lead to spontaneous mirror symmetry breaking (SMSB) could assist in the development of new methods for asymmetric synthesis and enantioselective polymerizations (e.g., replicators), and to frame reasonable speculations on the origin of biological homochirality.