bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PVDF/PMMA/Basalt fiber composites: Morphology, melting and crystallization, structure, mechanical properties, and heat resistance
Authors: Song Jianbin , Liu Jianxun , Zhang Huiliang , Yang Wenbin , Chen Lihong , Zhong Yumei , Ma Changcheng
Published: February 2014

This paper is to study the effect of basalt fiber on morphology, melting and crystallization, structure, mechanical properties, melting and crystallization of PVDF/PMMA composites using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray, differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), dynamical mechanical analysis (DMA), etc. Basalt fiber may disperse well in PVDF/PMMA matrix and form compact fiber network, and this makes tensile and flexural strength of fiber reinforced PVDF/PMMA composites get to the maximum value of 62 and 102 MPa, respectively. However, the mechanical properties begin to decrease when basalt fiber content exceeds 20 wt %. The α and β phase of PVDF can coexist in composites, and basalt fiber and PMMA can induce β phase of PVDF. The melting temperature of PVDF in composites is kept unchanged, but the degree of crystallinity of composites increases as basalt fiber content increase, and then declines when fiber content exceeds 20%. The DSC results confirm that the nucleation ability of PVDF is enhanced by basalt fiber. Also, the heat resistance of PVDF/PMMA composite is improved from 133 to 146.1°C due to basalt fiber. The DMA shows that basalt fiber increases the storage modulus of PVDF/PMMA composite, and the loss peak of PMMA increases from 116.1 to 130°C. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40494.
Size isn't everything: movements, home range, and habitat preferences of eastern blue gropers (Achoerodus viridis) demonstrate the efficacy of a small marine reserve
Authors: Lee Kate A. , Huveneers Charlie , Macdonald Tracey , Harcourt Robert G.
Published: February 2014

Marine protected areas (MPAs) are important conservation tools, however, efficacy can, in part, be a function of their size in relation to the home range of the target species.

The eastern blue groper, Achoerodus viridis, is a long‐lived, protogynous hermaphrodite, and an ‘iconic’ marine species in eastern Australia, with several MPAs having been established specifically for their protection.

Site fidelity, habitat use, and home range size were assessed for 29 adult eastern blue gropers monitored for up to 374 days using passive acoustic telemetry within and around a small marine reserve.

The fish exhibited long residency times and no movement was recorded between adjacent reefs, suggesting sand acts as a natural barrier to movement.

Core ranges were calculated using 50% kernel utilization distributions (KUD) and estimated between 0.005 and 0.092 km2. Males had larger core ranges than females or fish of indeterminate sex. There was no statistical difference between the breeding/non‐breeding seasons.

Home ranges were calculated using 95% KUD and ranged between 0.03 and 0.54 km2. Home range size was largest for males and significantly larger for all sexes in the breeding season. Fish tagged in the ‘no‐take’ area of the MPA had smaller home ranges than fish tagged in the area where fishing is permitted.

This study indicates that even relatively small MPAs can provide effective protection for adult eastern blue groper, supporting the proposition that large reef dwellers with long residency times can be used as flagship species to gain public support for the designation of MPAs.

Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Understanding the function of conserved variations in the catalytic loops of fungal glycoside hydrolase family 12
Authors: Damásio André R.L. , Rubio Marcelo V. , Oliveira Leandro C. , Segato Fernando , Dias Bruno A. , Citadini Ana P. , Paixão Douglas A. , Squina Fabio M.
Published: February 2014

Enzymes that cleave the xyloglucan backbone at unbranched glucose residues have been identified in GH families 5, 7, 12, 16, 44, and 74. Fungi produce enzymes that populate 20 of 22 families that are considered critical for plant biomass deconstruction. We searched for GH12‐encoding genes in 27 Eurotiomycetes genomes. After analyzing 50 GH12‐related sequences, the conserved variations of the amino acid sequences were examined. Compared to the endoglucanases, the endo‐xyloglucanase‐associated YSG deletion at the negative subsites of the catalytic cleft with a SST insertion at the reducing end of the substrate‐binding crevice is highly conserved. In addition, a highly conserved alanine residue was identified in all xyloglucan‐specific enzymes, and this residue is substituted by arginine in more promiscuous glucanases. To understand the basis for the xyloglucan specificity displayed by certain GH12 enzymes, two fungal GH12 endoglucanases were chosen for mutagenesis and functional studies: an endo‐xyloglucanase from Aspergillus clavatus (AclaXegA) and an endoglucanase from A. terreus (AtEglD). Comprehensive molecular docking studies and biochemical analyses were performed, revealing that mutations at the entrance of the catalytic cleft in AtEglD result in a wider binding cleft and the alteration of the substrate‐cleavage pattern, implying that a trio of residues coordinates the interactions and binding to linear glycans. The loop insertion at the crevice‐reducing end of AclaXegA is critical for catalytic efficiency to hydrolyze xyloglucan. The understanding of the structural elements governing endo‐xyloglucanase activity on linear and branched glucans will facilitate future enzyme modifications with potential applications in industrial biotechnology. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2014;111: 1494–1505. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Alterations of INPP4B, PIK3CA and pAkt of the PI3K pathway are associated with squamous cell carcinoma of the lung
Authors: Stjernström Annika , Karlsson Christina , Fernandez Oswaldo J. , Söderkvist Peter , Karlsson Mats G. , Thunell Lena K.
Published: February 2014

The aim of the study was to investigate how alterations in the PI3K pathway correlate with non‐small cell lung cancer subtypes squamous cell carcinoma (SSC) and adenocarcinoma (ADCA). We analyzed copy number variation and protein expression of INPP4B, protein expression of pAkt, PDPK1, and PTEN and mutational status of PIK3CA and PTEN in 180 cases. Nineteen% displayed loss of INPP4B copy, whereas 47% lacked expression, both showing correlation with SCC. Elevated pAkt expression was seen in 63% of all cases, also correlating to SCC. PDPK1 was expressed in 70%, more in male than female patients. Regarding PTEN, 50% displayed loss of expression, of which seven were identified with mutations in the phosphatase domain. We detected nine cases (5%) of PIK3CA mutations, all identified as the E545K hot spot mutation in the helical domain, all except one in SCC. When analyzing all PI3K pathway components together, we show that patients with at least one alteration in the PI3K pathway are twice as likely to have SCC, than ADCA. Interestingly, we also found a strong correlation between high pAkt expression and PTEN expression. As comparison, we also analyzed mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway genes, where we identified fifteen KRAS mutations (8%) and one BRAF mutation (1%), significantly associated to ADCA. No association was found to the Gly972Arg polymorphism of IRS‐1, involved in activation of both PI3K and MAPK pathways. In conclusion, we show here that several components of the PI3K pathway, alone and in combination, are correlated to development of SCC of the lung.
An Ensemble of Rapidly Interconverting Orientations in Electrostatic Protein–Peptide Complexes Characterized by NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Guan Jia‐Ying , Foerster Johannes M. , Drijfhout Jan W. , Timmer Monika , Blok Anneloes , Ullmann G. Matthias , Ubbink Marcellus
Published: February 2014

Protein complex formation involves an encounter state in which the proteins are associated in a nonspecific manner and often stabilized by interactions between charged surface patches. Such patches are thought to bind in many different orientations with similar affinity. To obtain experimental evidence for the dynamics in encounter complexes, a model was created using the electron transfer protein plastocyanin and short charged peptides. Three plastocyanins with distinct surface charge distributions were studied. The experimental results from chemical shift perturbations, paramagnetic relaxation enhancement (PRE) NMR, and theoretical results from Monte Carlo simulations indicate the presence of multiple binding orientations that interconvert quickly and are dominated by long‐range charge interactions. The PRE data also suggest the presence of highly transient orientations stabilized by short‐range interactions.
Variation of the Mechanical Properties of Spray‐Dried Granules via Internal Structure
Authors: Eckhard Susanna , Fries Manfred , Teipel Ulrich
Published: February 2014

Zur Untersuchung der Zusammenhänge zwischen inneren Strukturen und mechanischen Eigenschaften wurden variierte Al2O3‐Sprühgranulate hergestellt. Bei Modifikation der Additivart und ‐menge wurde der Einfluss der inneren Strukturen durch die Additiveigenschaften überlagert. Bei Variation von z. B. Primärpartikelgröße oder Feststoffgehalt konnte der Einfluss der inneren Strukturen auf mechanische Eigenschaften deutlich abgebildet werden. Erhöhte Schalendicken sowie reduzierte Mikroporositäten wirken festigkeitssteigernd, wobei die Mikrostruktur (Mikroporosität) offensichtlich einen dominierenden Einfluss hat.
A Cell‐Permeable Ester Derivative of the JmjC Histone Demethylase Inhibitor IOX1
Authors: Schiller Rachel , Scozzafava Giuseppe , Tumber Anthony , Wickens James R. , Bush Jacob T. , Rai Ganesha , Lejeune Clarisse , Choi Hwanho , Yeh Tzu‐Lan , Chan Mun Chiang , Mott Bryan T. , McCullagh James S. O. , Maloney David J. , Schofield Christopher J. , Kawamura Akane
Published: February 2014

The 2‐oxoglutarate (2OG)‐dependent Jumonji C domain (JmjC) family is the largest family of histone lysine demethylases. There is interest in developing small‐molecule probes that modulate JmjC activity to investigate their biological roles. 5‐Carboxy‐8‐hydroxyquinoline (IOX1) is the most potent broad‐spectrum inhibitor of 2OG oxygenases, including the JmjC demethylases, reported to date; however, it suffers from low cell permeability. Here, we describe structure–activity relationship studies leading to the discovery of an n‐octyl ester form of IOX1 with improved cellular potency (EC50 value of 100 to 4 μM). These findings are supported by in vitro inhibition and selectivity studies, docking studies, activity versus toxicity analysis in cell cultures, and intracellular uptake measurements. The n‐octyl ester was found to have improved cell permeability; it was found to inhibit some JmjC demethylases in its intact ester form and to be more selective than IOX1. The n‐octyl ester of IOX1 should find utility as a starting point for the development of JmjC inhibitors and as a use as a cell‐permeable tool compound for studies investigating the roles of 2OG oxygenases in epigenetic regulation.
Correlation of Length of Linear Oligo(ethanamino) Amides with Gene Transfer and Cytotoxicity
Authors: Scholz Claudia , Kos Petra , Leclercq Laurent , Jin Xiaoyun , Cottet Hervé , Wagner Ernst
Published: February 2014

The optimization of synthetic carriers for gene transfer remains a major challenge. Cationic polymers such as polyethylenimine (PEI) often show increasing gene transfer activity with increasing molecular weight, but this favorable effect is accompanied by an undesired increase in cytotoxicity. Moreover, the polydispersity of polymers prevents accurate determination of optimum size. Herein we describe the step‐by‐step elongation of precise linear oligo(ethanamino) amides by making use of the artificial amino acid succinoyl‐tetraethylene pentamine (Stp) for solid‐phase‐assisted synthesis. This procedure enabled us to identify the optimal oligomer Stp30‐W (8.4 kDa) with a length of 30 Stp units, with which effective gene transfer occurs in the absence of cytotoxicity. The transfection efficiency of Stp30‐W exceeded that of standard linear PEI (22 kDa) by sixfold; nevertheless, Stp30‐W exhibited tenfold lower cytotoxicity. In addition to the lower molecular weight, the succinate spacer between the oligoamine units may also contribute to the favorable biocompatibility. The cytotoxicity of the cationic polymer PEI is a major concern for use as a carrier for gene delivery, so this comparison between linear PEI and the new Stp oligomers is particularly relevant.
Binding Mode and Structure–Activity Relationships around Direct Inhibitors of the Nrf2–Keap1 Complex
Authors: Jnoff Eric , Albrecht Claudia , Barker John J. , Barker Oliver , Beaumont Edward , Bromidge Steven , Brookfield Frederick , Brooks Mark , Bubert Christian , Ceska Tom , Corden Vincent , Dawson Graham , Duclos Stephanie , Fryatt Tara , Genicot Christophe , Jigorel Emilie , Kwong Jason , Maghames Rosemary , Mushi Innocent , Pike Richard , Sands Zara A. , Smith Myron A. , Stimson Christopher C. , Courade Jean‐Philippe
Published: February 2014

An X‐ray crystal structure of Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein (Keap1) co‐crystallised with (1S,2R)‐2‐[(1S)‐1‐[(1,3‐dioxo‐2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐isoindol‐2‐yl)methyl]‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydroisoquinolin‐2‐carbonyl]cyclohexane‐1‐carboxylic acid (compound (S,R,S)‐1 a) was obtained. This X‐ray crystal structure provides breakthrough experimental evidence for the true binding mode of the hit compound (S,R,S)‐1 a, as the ligand orientation was found to differ from that of the initial docking model, which was available at the start of the project. Crystallographic elucidation of this binding mode helped to focus and drive the drug design process more effectively and efficiently.
Broad requirement for terminal sialic acid residues and FcγRIIB for the preventive and therapeutic activity of intravenous immunoglobulins in vivo
Authors: Schwab Inessa , Mihai Sidonia , Seeling Michaela , Kasperkiewicz Michael , Ludwig Ralf J. , Nimmerjahn Falk
Published: February 2014

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) therapy is widely used to treat a variety of autoimmune diseases including immunothrombocytopenia, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, and more recently autoimmune skin blistering diseases. Despite this well‐documented clinical success, the precise molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying this immunomodulatory activity are discussed controversially. In particular, the clinically relevant therapeutic pathway of IVIg‐mediated immune modulation has not been studied in detail. In the present study, we use four independent in vivo model systems of auto‐Ab‐mediated autoimmune disease to identify a common pathway explaining IVIg activity under therapeutic conditions in vivo. We show that irrespective of the in vivo model system, IVIg activity is strictly dependent on the presence of terminal sialic acid residues and the inhibitory FcγRIIB under preventive as well as therapeutic treatment conditions. In contrast, specific ICAM3 grabbing nonintegrin related 1, previously demonstrated to be essential under preventative treatment conditions, showed a disease‐specific impact on IVIg‐mediated resolution of established autoimmune disease.
Thermal Conversion of Hollow Prussian Blue Nanoparticles into Nanoporous Iron Oxides with Crystallized Hematite Phase
Authors: Zakaria Mohamed B. , Hu Ming , Hayashi Naoaki , Tsujimoto Yoshihiro , Ishihara Shinsuke , Imura Masataka , Suzuki Norihiro , Huang Yu‐Yuan , Sakka Yoshio , Ariga Katsuhiko , Wu Kevin C.‐W. , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: February 2014

We recently demonstrated that Prussian blue (PB) coordination polymers can be successfully etched by acidic solution for the preparation of hollow PB nanoparticles (Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2012, 51, 984). In this paper, by using hollow PB nanoparticles as starting materials, we calcined them under various conditions to prepare nanoporous Fe oxides with a crystallized α‐Fe2O3 (hematite) phase. The obtained particles were carefully characterized by scanning electron microscopy, wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction, nitrogen gas adsorption–desorption isotherms, transmission electron microscopy, and Mössbauer spectroscopy. The morphologies, surface areas, and degrees of crystallinity of the samples were varied by changing the number of hours of calcination. After calcination at 400 °C for 4 h, formation of a crystallized α‐Fe2O3 phase was confirmed, although some residues of amorphous and/or γ‐Fe2O3 phases were also present. With a further increase in the calcination time (up to 7 h), the α‐Fe2O3 phase was predominantly formed. The obtained sample exhibited high surface area, which will be useful for photocatalytic applications.
Crystal Chemistry of Uranyl Carboxylate Coordination Networks Obtained in the Presence of Organic Amine Molecules
Authors: Mihalcea Ionut , Henry Natacha , Loiseau Thierry
Published: February 2014

Three uranyl isophthalates (1,3‐bdc) and two uranyl pyromellitates (btec) of coordination‐polymer type were hydrothermally synthesized (200 °C for 24 h) in the presence of different amine‐based molecules [1,3‐diaminopropane (dap) or dimethylamine (dma) originating from the in situ decomposition of N,N‐dimethylformamide]. (UO2)2(OH)2(H2O)(1,3‐bdc)·H2O (1) is composed of inorganic tetranuclear cores, which are linked to each other through the isophthalato ligand to generate infinite neutral ribbons, which are intercalated by free H2O molecules. The compounds (UO2)1.5(H2O)(1,3‐bdc)2·0.5H2dap·1.5H2O (2) and UO2(1,3‐bdc)1.5·0.5H2dap·2H2O (3) consist of discrete uranyl‐centered hexagonal bipyramids connected to each other by a ditopic linker to form a single‐layer network for 2 or a double‐layer network for 3. The protonated diamine molecules are located between the uranyl–organic sheets and balance the negative charge of the layered sub‐networks. The phase (UO2)2O(btec)·2Hdma·H2O (4) presents a 2D structure built up from tetranuclear units, which consist of two central sevenfold coordinated uranium centers and two peripheral eightfold coordinated uranium centers. The connection of the resulting tetramers through the pyromellitate molecules generates an anionic layerlike structure, in which the protonated dimethylammonium species are inserted. The compound UO2(btec)·2Hdma (5) is also a lamellar coordination polymer, which contains isolated eightfold coordinated uranium cations linked through pyromellitate molecules and intercalated by protonated dimethylammonium species. In both phases 4 and 5, the btec linker has non‐bonded carboxyl oxygen atoms, which preferentially interact with the protonated amine molecules through a hydrogen‐bond network. The different illustrations show the structural diversity of uranyl–organic coordination polymers with organic amine molecules as countercations.
Irreversible Oxy‐2‐azonia‐Cope Rearrangements for the Synthesis of Functionalized Allyl α‐Amino Acid Derivatives
Authors: Mu Wenbo , Zhou Lijun , Zou Yue , Wang Quanrui , Goeke Andreas
Published: February 2014

A general method to synthesize functionalized allyl α‐amino acid derivatives through an irreversible oxy‐2‐azonia‐Cope rearrangement is reported. In the presence of AlCl3, the reaction of imino ethyl glyoxalates with various β,γ‐unsaturated ketones furnished the corresponding allyl α‐amino acid derivatives. The key to the success of this method is the amide bond formation, which makes the rearrangement irreversible. This reaction system constitutes a new strategy for the synthesis of unusual allyl glycine derivatives, which are valuable synthetic intermediates. An efficient and operationally simple three‐component version of this reaction was also performed.
Organocatalytic Mannich Reactions on a Carbapenem Core – Synthesis of Mannich Bases and Bicyclic Diazanonanes
Authors: Cele Zamani E. D. , Pawar Sachin A. , Naicker Tricia , Maguire Glenn E. M. , Arvidsson Per I. , Kruger Hendrik G. , Govender Thavendran
Published: February 2014

An efficient diastereoselective synthesis of carbapenem Mannich bases was developed using organocatalysis. This method also provides a route to new highly functionalized diazabicyclo[4.2.1]nonanes of proposed biological significance.
Performance of base‐isolated reinforced concrete buildings under bidirectional seismic excitation considering pounding with retaining walls including friction effects
Authors: Pant Deepak R. , Wijeyewickrema Anil C.
Published: February 2014

Seismic pounding of base‐isolated buildings has been mostly studied in the past assuming unidirectional excitation. Therefore, in this study, the effects of seismic pounding on the response of base‐isolated reinforced concrete buildings under bidirectional excitation are investigated. For this purpose, a three‐dimensional finite element model of a code‐compliant four‐story building is considered, where a newly developed contact element that accounts for friction and is capable of simulating pounding with retaining walls at the base, is used. Nonlinear behavior of the superstructure as well as the isolation system is considered. The performance of the building is evaluated separately for far‐fault non‐pulse‐like ground motions and near‐fault pulse‐like ground motions, which are weighted scaled to represent two levels of shaking viz. the design earthquake (DE) level and the risk‐targeted maximum considered earthquake (MCER) level. Nonlinear time‐history analyses are carried out considering lower bound as well as upper bound properties of isolators. The influence of separation distance between the building and the retaining walls at the base is also investigated. It is found that if pounding is avoided, the performance of the building is satisfactory in terms of limiting structural and nonstructural damage, under DE‐level motions and MCER‐level far‐fault motions, whereas unacceptably large demands are imposed by MCER‐level near‐fault motions. In the case of seismic pounding, MCER‐level near‐fault motions are found to be detrimental, where the effect of pounding is mostly concentrated at the first story. In addition, it is determined that considering unidirectional excitation instead of bidirectional excitation for MCER‐level near‐fault motions provides highly unconservative estimates of superstructure demands. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermal conductivity of gypsum boards beyond dehydration temperature
Authors: Ghazi Wakili K. , Koebel M. , Glaettli T. , Hofer M.
Published: February 2014

The thermal conductivity of gypsum plasterboard at temperatures beyond its dehydration/calcination temperature is, besides the effective heat capacity, the main parameter defining the increase in heat transfer when the board is submitted on one side to a strongly transient temperature boundary condition. The present study investigates the significant rise in thermal conductivity of dehydrated gypsum plaster board between 200 and 800 °C, reaching the initial hydrated value of 0.3 W/(m·K). It is shown that the main reason for this increase is independent of radiative and convective heat transfers and only due to an enhancement of the conduction between the single crystals induced by an effect similar to sintering. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
PEMFC Performances Using Photocatalytic Hydrogen with a Dead‐Ended Anode
Authors: Rodriguez J. , Puzenat E. , Mosdale R. , Thivel P.‐X.
Published: February 2014

Hydrogen was produced via photocatalytic dehydrogenation or reforming of different alcohols using Pt/TiO2 as catalyst. The hydrogen produced was not pure and contained some alcohol and by‐products such as aldehydes and CO2. The photocatalytic hydrogen production system was coupled with an air‐breathing PEM fuel cell. Different experimental parameters and conditions were compared such as photocatalyst concentration. Photocatalytic hydrogen resulted in very similar PEMFC performances as those obtained with pure hydrogen. The PEM fuel cell reached a current density of 52 mA cm–2 at 220 mV cell voltage using hydrogen produced with the photocatalytic set up. No irreversible poisoning effect was observed due to photocatalytic by‐products. However, purging of the anodic compartment of the PEMFC was necessary to maintain good performances because of the accumulation of photocatalyst by‐products in dead‐end mode.
Freestanding Micro‐SOFCs with Electrodes Prepared by Electrostatic Spray Deposition
Authors: Choi S. H. , Kim S. W. , Hwang C. S. , Lee M. H.
Published: February 2014

We report a freestanding micro solid oxide fuel cell with both the anode and cathode deposited using electrostatic spray deposition (ESD) technique. The cell is consisted of dense yittria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ) electrolyte (100 nm thick), porous lanthanum strontium manganite (LSM)–YSZ cathode (∼3 μm thick), and porous NiO‐YSZ anode (∼3 μm thick). LSM‐YSZ and NiO‐YSZ composite powders were initially prepared by glycine nitrate process and super‐critical fluid processes, respectively, and both cathode and anode layers were deposited by the ESD. The resulting freestanding micro cell exhibited an open circuit voltage close to the theoretical value of 1.09 V, and a maximum power density of 41.3 mWcm–2 at 640 °C.
Effects of grain size distribution on mineralogical and chemical compositions: a case study from size‐fractional sediments of the Huanghe (Yellow River) and Changjiang (Yangtze River)
Authors: Zhou Xiaojing , Li Anchun , Jiang Fuqing , Lu Jian
Published: February 2014

The influence of hydrodynamics on the chemical composition of sediments is based on the uneven distribution of element abundances in different size fractions. In this study, 72 size‐fractional sediments from the Huanghe (Yellow River) and Changjiang (Yangtze River) riverbeds were measured with XRD, SEM, ICP‐AES and ICP‐MS. The analysis results show that the mineral and chemical characteristics change with grain size in the Huanghe and Changjiang sediments. According to the principal components analysis, three independent geochemical factors were found. The first factor elements, Zr, Hf, Th, U, Y, La and TiO2 are influenced by the existence of heavy minerals. The second factor elements, Al2O3, alkalis, alkaline earth (excluding Ca and Sr) and most of the transitional metals are dominated by clay minerals. The third factor group includes Ca and Sr, which were controlled by calcium‐bearing mineral contents and chemical weathering intensities. The various grain size distributions greatly affect the mineralogical and chemical compositions of bulk sediments. Compared to other size fractions, the 5–6PHI size fractions of the Huanghe and Changjiang sediments have special mineralogical and chemical compositions, and intermediate volume percentages. Weight or volume percentage of each size fraction may be more suitable than mean grain‐size of the bulk sediment to elucidate the grain size effects. Chemical Index of Alteration (CIA) values increase steeply with decreasing grain size, while Weathering Index of Parker (WIP) values are relatively stable. Because of the big influence of the abundance of clay minerals on CIA values, it is questionable to use CIA as a proxy of weathering intensity. Considering the clay mineral effects, stability in values and heterogeneous material properties, WIP has the potential to indicate the chemical weathering intensity of sediments. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multilayer‐omics analysis of renal cell carcinoma, including the whole exome, methylome and transcriptome
Authors: Arai Eri , Sakamoto Hiromi , Ichikawa Hitoshi , Totsuka Hirohiko , Chiku Suenori , Gotoh Masahiro , Mori Taisuke , Nakatani Tamao , Ohnami Sumiko , Nakagawa Tohru , Fujimoto Hiroyuki , Wang Linghua , Aburatani Hiroyuki , Yoshida Teruhiko , Kanai Yae
Published: February 2014

The aim of this study was to identify pathways that have a significant impact during renal carcinogenesis. Sixty‐seven paired samples of both noncancerous renal cortex tissue and cancerous tissue from patients with clear cell renal cell carcinomas (RCCs) were subjected to whole‐exome, methylome and transcriptome analyses using Agilent SureSelect All Exon capture followed by sequencing on an Illumina HiSeq 2000 platform, Illumina Infinium HumanMethylation27 BeadArray and Agilent SurePrint Human Gene Expression microarray, respectively. Sanger sequencing and quantitative reverse transcription‐PCR were performed for technical verification. MetaCore software was used for pathway analysis. Somatic nonsynonymous single‐nucleotide mutations, insertions/deletions and intragenic breaks of 2,153, 359 and 8 genes were detected, respectively. Mutations of GCN1L1, MED12 and CCNC, which are members of CDK8 mediator complex directly regulating β‐catenin‐driven transcription, were identified in 16% of the RCCs. Mutations of MACF1, which functions in the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway, were identified in 4% of the RCCs. A combination of methylome and transcriptome analyses further highlighted the significant role of the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway in renal carcinogenesis. Genetic aberrations and reduced expression of ERC2 and ABCA13 were frequent in RCCs, and MTOR mutations were identified as one of the major disrupters of cell signaling during renal carcinogenesis. Our results confirm that multilayer‐omics analysis can be a powerful tool for revealing pathways that play a significant role in carcinogenesis.
Neutrophils recruit regulatory T‐cells into tumors via secretion of CCL17—A new mechanism of impaired antitumor immunity
Authors: Mishalian Inbal , Bayuh Rachel , Eruslanov Evgeniy , Michaeli Janna , Levy Liran , Zolotarov Lida , Singhal Sunil , Albelda Steven M. , Granot Zvi , Fridlender Zvi G.
Published: February 2014

The mechanisms by which tumor‐associated neutrophils (TANs) affect tumor growth are to a large extent unknown. Regulatory T‐cells (T‐regs) are functionally immune‐suppressive subsets of T‐cells. Depletion or inhibition of T‐regs can enhance antitumor immunity. We demonstrated both by RT‐PCR and by ELISA that murine TANs secrete significant amounts of the T‐regs chemoattractant, CCL17, much more than circulating or splenic neutrophils, and at a level progressively increasing during tumor development. Migration assays, both in vitro and in vivo, showed recruitment of T‐regs by TANs, which was inhibited with anti‐CCL17 monoclonal antibodies. Systemic neutrophil depletion in tumor‐bearing mice using anti‐Ly6G monoclonal antibodies reduced the migration of T‐regs into the tumors. We further showed, using flow cytometry, that CCL17 secretion by TANs is not limited to mouse models of cancer but is also relevant to human TANs. Our results suggest a new indirect mechanism by which TANs may inhibit antitumor immune activity, thus promoting tumor growth. We further describe, for the first time, a clear link between TANs and T‐regs acting together to impair antitumor immunity.
Parameters of reinforcement and response‐class hierarchies
Authors: Beavers Gracie A. , Iwata Brian A. , Gregory Meagan K.
Published: February 2014

Shabani, Carr, and Petursdottir (2009) examined the effects of a response–response relation (effort) on the development of a response‐class hierarchy using a laboratory model. Response–reinforcer relations may have similar influences. Using a similar translational approach, we examined the effects of reinforcer rate, quality, delay, and magnitude in a series of separate experiments conducted with 8 individuals with intellectual disabilities. Response‐class hierarchies emerged along the dimension of rate for 3 of 6 subjects, quality for 5 of 5 subjects, delay for 2 of 8 subjects, and magnitude for 5 of 6 subjects.
Continuous symmetry measures for complex symmetry group
Authors: Dryzun Chaim
Published: February 2014

Symmetry is a fundamental property of nature, used extensively in physics, chemistry, and biology. The Continuous symmetry measures (CSM) is a method for estimating the deviation of a given system from having a certain perfect symmetry, which enables us to formulate quantitative relation between symmetry and other physical properties. Analytical procedures for calculating the CSM of all simple cyclic point groups are available for several years. Here, we present a methodology for calculating the CSM of any complex point group, including the dihedral, tetrahedral, octahedral, and icosahedral symmetry groups. We present the method and analyze its performances and errors. We also introduce an analytical method for calculating the CSM of the linear symmetry groups. As an example, we apply these methods for examining the symmetry of water, the symmetry maps of AB4 complexes, and the symmetry of several Lennard‐Jones clusters. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nerve Growth Factor Modulation of Retinal Ganglion Cell Physiology
Authors: Roberti Gloria , Mantelli Flavio , Macchi Ilaria , Massaro‐Giordano Mina , Centofanti Marco
Published: February 2014

Nerve growth factor (NGF) is an endogenous neurotrophin involved in the development, maintenance and regeneration of mammalian sympathetic and sensory neurons. Additionally, NGF is known to have trophic and differentiating activity on several populations of cholinergic neurons of the central nervous system (CNS), and to act as a differentiation factor in the development of the visual cortex. The paramount functions of NGF in the visual system are also highlighted by the presence of this neurotrophin and both its receptors TrkA and p75 in most intra‐ocular tissues, including lens, vitreous, choroid, iris, and trabecular meshwork. In the retina, NGF is produced and utilized specifically by retinal ganglion cells (RGC), bipolar neurons and glial cells, and is thought to have crucial protective effects in several disease states. Studies on the role of NGF on RGCs survival following optic nerve transection, ischemic injury, ocular hypertension and glaucoma are discussed in this review. J. Cell. Physiol. 229: 1130–1133, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Setal morphology of the grooming appendages of Macrobrachium rosenbergii (Crustacea: Decapoda: Caridea: Palaemonidae) and review of decapod setal classification
Authors: Wortham Jennifer L. , VanMaurik Lauren N. , Wayne Price W.
Published: February 2014

Setae are vital in grooming activities and aiding in the removal of epibionts and sedimentary fouling from the body surfaces of decapod crustaceans. Thus, the setal structures and their arrangement on the grooming appendages and sensory structures of the commercially important shrimp, Macrobrachium rosenbergii, were examined using scanning electron microscopy. Macrobrachium rosenbergii is extensively grown in aquaculture and exhibits unique male morphological forms, termed morphotypes. The three male morphotypes are termed blue‐clawed males, orange‐clawed males, and small‐clawed or undifferentiated males and all three differ in their dominance, behavior, body morphology, and reproductive success. Seven setal types, two of which have never been described in the literature, are identified on the grooming appendages (third maxillipeds, first, second, and fifth pereopods) and antennae: simple, serrate, serrulate, spiniform, pappose, crinoid, and spinulate. The latter two setae are newly identified. Certain setal types, such as serrate and serrulate setae were located and associated with specific grooming appendages such as the first pereopods. The types of setae on the grooming appendages varied among females and male morphotypes and the novel setal types (crinoid and spinulate) were found only on two of the male morphotypes. A literature review of terminology related to the structure of setae and setal types in decapod crustaceans is offered as the usage of various terms is ambiguous and conflicting in the literature. The intention of this review is to provide future authors with a comprehensive collection of terms and images that can be used to describe various aspects of setal morphology in decapods. J. Morphol. 275:634–649, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hindlimb myology of the monk parakeet (Aves, Psittaciformes)
Authors: Carril Julieta , Mosto María C. , Picasso Mariana B. J. , Tambussi Claudia P.
Published: February 2014

We studied the hindlimb myology of the monk parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus). Like all parrots, it has zygodactyl feet enabling perching, climbing, hanging, moving easily among trees, and handling food. Muscles were described and weighed, and physiological cross‐sectional area (PCSA) of four flexors and one extensor was calculated. In comparison to other muscles, the M. tibialis cranialis and the M. fibularis brevis show increased development and high PCSA values, and therefore, large potential force production. Also, a large proportion of muscle mass was involved in flexing the digits. We hypothesize that these muscle traits are associated with the arboreal locomotion and food manipulation habits. In the monk parakeet, the M. extensor digitorum longus sends a branch to the hallux, and the connection between the M. flexor digitorum longus and the M. flexor hallucis longus is type I (Gadow's classification). We reaffirm the presence of the M. ambiens as a plesiomorphic condition that disappears in most members of the order. Among Psittaciformes, the M. fibularis brevis is stronger and the M. fibularis weaker in arboreal species than in basal terrestrial ones (e.g., Strigops). J. Morphol. 275:732–744, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
0.125 mm3 spatial resolution steady‐state MR angiography of the thighs with a blood pool contrast agent using the quadrature body coil only at 1.5 Tesla
Authors: Boschewitz Jack M. , Hadizadeh Dariusch R. , Kukuk Guido M. , Meyer Carsten , Wilhelm Kai , Koscielny Arne , Verrel Frauke , Gieseke Jürgen , Schild Hans H. , Willinek Winfried A.
Published: February 2014

Purpose

To implement and evaluate high spatial resolution three‐dimensional MR contrast‐enhanced angiography (3D‐CEMRA) of the thighs using a blood pool contrast agent (BPCA) using the quadrature body coil only in patients with peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD) in cases receiver coils cannot be used at 1.5 Tesla (T).

Materials and Methods

Nineteen patients (mean age: 68.7 ± 11.2 years; range, 38–83 years) with known PAOD (Fontaine stages; III: 16, IV: 3) prospectively underwent 3D‐CEMRA at 1.5T with a noninterpolated voxel size of 0.49 × 0.49 × 0.48 mm3. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) was available for comparison in all patients. Two readers independently evaluated movement artifacts, overall image quality of 3D‐CEMRA, and grade of stenosis as compared to DSA. SNR and CNR levels were quantified.

Results

The 3D‐CEMRA was successfully completed in all patients. Patient movement artifacts that affected stenosis grading occurred in 3/38 thighs. Overall image quality was rated excellent in 15/38, good in 12/38, and diagnostic in 8/38 thighs. Stenosis grading matched with that in DSA in 35/38 thighs. High SNR and CNR were measured in all vessels.

Conclusion

The 0.125 mm3 spatial resolution 3D‐CEMRA of the thighs with a BPCA is feasible using a quadrature body coil exclusively with excellent image quality despite long acquisition times. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2014;40:996–1001. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
MRI in transverse myelitis
Authors: Goh Christine , Desmond Patricia M. , Phal Pramit M.
Published: February 2014

Transverse myelitis is an acute inflammatory disease of the spinal cord, characterized by rapid onset of bilateral neurological symptoms. Weakness, sensory disturbance, and autonomic dysfunction evolve over hours or days, most progressing to maximal clinical severity within 10 days of onset. At maximal clinical severity, half will have a paraparesis, and almost all patients have sensory disturbance and bladder dysfunction. Residual disability is divided equally between severe, moderate and minimal or none. The causes of transverse myelitis are diverse; etiologies implicated include demyelinating conditions, collagen vascular disease, and parainfectious causes, however, despite extensive diagnostic work‐up many cases are considered idiopathic. Due to heterogeneity in pathogenesis, and the similarity of its clinical presentation with those of various noninflammatory myelopathies, transverse myelitis has frequently been viewed as a diagnostic dilemma. However, as targeted therapies to optimize patient outcome develop, timely identification of the underlying etiology is becoming increasingly important. In this review, we describe the imaging and clinical features of idiopathic and disease‐associated transverse myelitis and its major differentials, with discussion of how MR imaging features assist in the identification of various sub‐types of transverse myelitis. We will also discuss the potential for advanced MR techniques to contribute to diagnosis and prognostication. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2014;40:1267–1279. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Usefulness of thin‐section single‐shot turbo spin echo with half‐fourier acquisition in evaluation of local invasion of lung cancer
Authors: Chang Suyon , Hong Sae Rom , Kim Young Jin , Hong Yoo Jin , Hur Jin , Choi Byoung Wook , Lee Hye‐Jeong
Published: February 2014

Purpose

To evaluate the usefulness of thin‐section single‐shot turbo spin echo with half‐Fourier acquisition (SS‐TSE‐HF) alone for evaluation of local invasion of lung cancer.

Materials and Methods

Our Institutional Review Board approved this retrospective study. Thirty‐six patients with lung cancer who underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for evaluation of local invasion followed by curative surgery from July 2008 to June 2012 were enrolled in this study. Two reviewers independently and blindly reviewed computed tomography (CT) and MRI (thin‐section SS‐TSE‐HF and conventional MRI, which consisted of conventional axial SS‐TSE‐HF, dynamic MRI with respiratory and/or cardiac cine, and T1‐weighted high‐resolution isotropic volume examination [THRIVE]) for the presence of local invasion. Diagnostic performances were evaluated using gross surgical findings and pathological results as a standard reference.

Results

The overall diagnostic performance for detecting local invasion of lung cancer between the two reviewers were as follows: specificity and accuracy of thin‐section SS‐TSE‐HF (89.0% and 87.5%) were significantly higher than those of CT (25.6% and 46.9%, P < 0.001 for both) or conventional MRI (61.0% and 69.5%, P < 0.001 and P = 0.008, respectively). Sensitivity was 84.8% for thin‐section SS‐TSE‐HF with the same value for CT (P = 0.246) and conventional MRI (P = 0.209).

Conclusion

Thin‐section SS‐TSE‐HF sequence alone without any contrast agent demonstrated a relatively high diagnostic performance in evaluation of local invasion of lung cancer. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;41:747–754. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The study of microstructure and properties of chromium bronze for contact shoe
Authors: Xiaohui Zhi , Feng Zhao
Published: February 2014

The microstructure and properties of chromium bronze, with different chromium content and treatment method, were characterized by using scanning electron microscope, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and optical microscopy technique. For the specimens with the same treatment method, with increasing of the chromium content, the number of chromium phase increase and the dispersion strengthen effect enhances. On the other hand, the hinder effect on the electrons enhances and the electrical conductivity decreases. For the specimens with same component, the tensile strength and hardness order from low to high are: casting, aging treatment and solution aging. The electrical conductivity order from low to high are: casting, solution aging and aging treatment.
Analysis of Schrödinger operators with inverse square potentials II: FEM and approximation of eigenfunctions in the periodic case
Authors: Hunsicker Eugénie , Li Hengguang , Nistor Victor , Uski Ville
Published: February 2014

In this article, we consider the problem of optimal approximation of eigenfunctions of Schrödinger operators with isolated inverse square potentials and of solutions to equations involving such operators. It is known in this situation that the finite element method performs poorly with standard meshes. We construct an alternative class of graded meshes, and prove and numerically test optimal approximation results for the finite element method using these meshes. Our numerical tests are in good agreement with our theoretical results.Copyright © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 30: 1130–1151, 2014
Modeling a grid‐connected concentrator photovoltaic system
Authors: Strobach Ehud , Faiman David , Kabalo Shlomo , Bokobza Dov , Melnichak Vladimir , Gombert Andreas , Gerstmaier Tobias , Röttger Michael
Published: February 2014

A six‐parameter formula is proposed for describing the hourly alternating current performance of a grid‐connected, passively cooled concentrator photovoltaic (CPV) system. These system parameters all have physical meanings, and techniques are described for deriving their numerical values. The predictions of the model are compared with the measured output of a Soitec CPV system at Sede Boqer and found to be accurate to approximately ± 5% at all times of the year. The model should also be valid for systems of similar construction operated in different climates from the system studied here, and also for passively cooled CPV systems of different designs provided that suitable numerical values are determined for their system parameters. Another possible use of the model is as a guide for tailoring CPV cell architecture to the particular spectral conditions of the locations in which they will operate. Attention is drawn to the fact that the numerical values of some of the system parameters are found to depend upon the time binning employed for the data. An explanation is given for this phenomenon, which is also found to occur for non‐concentrating photovoltaic panels. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Maize (Zea maysL.) seedling leaf nuclear proteome and differentially expressed proteins between a hybrid and its parental lines
Authors: Guo Baojian , Chen Yanhong , Li Chuan , Wang Tianya , Wang Rui , Wang Bo , Hu Sha , Du Xiaofen , Xing Hongyan , Song Xiao , Yao Yingyin , Sun Qixin , Ni Zhongfu
Published: February 2014

To better understand the underlying molecular basis of leaf development in maize, a reference map of nuclear proteins in basal region of seedling leaf was established using a combination of 2DE and MALDI‐TOF‐MS. In total, 441 reproducible protein spots in nuclear proteome of maize leaf basal region were detected with silver staining in a pH range of 3–10, among which 203 spots corresponding to 163 different proteins were identified. As expected, proteins implicated in RNA and protein‐associated functions were overrepresented in nuclear proteome. Remarkably, a high percentage (10%) of proteins was identified to be involved in cell division and growth. In addition, comparative nuclear proteomic analysis in leaf basal region of highly heterotic hybrid Mo17/B73 and its parental lines was also performed and 52 of 445 (11.69%) detected protein spots were differentially expressed between the hybrid and its parental lines, among which 16 protein spots displayed nonadditively expressed pattern. These results indicated that hybridization between two parental lines can cause changes in the expression of a variety of nuclear proteins, which may be responsible for the observed leaf size heterosis.