bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stereoselective Synthesis of Dithia[3.3]cyclophane S,S′‐Dioxides with Planar and Central Chirality
Authors: Barattucci Anna , Di Gioia Maria Luisa , Leggio Antonella , Minuti Lucio , Papalia Teresa , Siciliano Carlo , Temperini Andrea , Bonaccorsi Paola
Published: February 2014

5,8‐Dimethyl‐1,12‐dimethylene‐2,11‐dithia[3.3]cyclophane 2,11‐dioxides with planar and central chirality were synthesized in high yields, starting from 2,5‐dimethyl‐1,4‐benzenedimethanethiol, through the formation of suitable transient sulfenic functions that add to the triple bonds of disubstituted benzenes. Experimental observations allowed mechanistic and stereochemical insights into the key step of the synthetic pathway, and NMR experiments were diagnostic for the structure assignments of the cage‐like compounds. The stereochemical characteristics of the new dithiacyclophane S,S′‐dioxides synthesized may be applicable in the field of organocatalysis.
Iron‐Catalyzed Allylic C–H Amination of Substituted 1,3‐Dienes
Authors: Murru Siva , Srivastava Radhey S.
Published: February 2014

A catalytic method for the selective allylic C–H amination of dienes and trienes using arylhydroxylamines has been developed. This iron‐catalyzed approach involves the in situ generation of activated nitrosoarenes, which in turn react with dienes or trienes to give the corresponding aminomethyl dienes or trienes as the major products, and hetero‐Diels–Alder adducts as minor products. The selectivity depends on the structures of both the catalyst and the substrate. We have also studied substituent effects using p‐substituted phenylhydroxylamines.
Sequential double fluorescent detections of total proteins and phosphoproteins in SDS‐PAGE
Authors: Hwang Sun‐Young , Wang Xu , Cong Wei‐Tao , Jin Li‐Tai , Choi Jung‐Kap
Published: February 2014

A fluorescent staining technique, using selective chelation with fluorophore and metal ion to the phosphate groups of phosphoproteins in SDS‐PAGE is described. As a fluorescent dye and a metal ion, Fura 2 pentapotassium salt and Al3+ were employed, respectively. The staining method, Fura 2 stain, has sensitivities of 16–32 ng of α‐casein and β‐casein, 62 ng of ovalbumin, phosvitin, and κ‐casein using an ultraviolet transilluminator. Furthermore, Fura 2 stain is able to carry out continuative double detection of total proteins and phosphoproteins on the same gel within 3.5 h. Consequently, selective phosphoprotein and total protein detections could be obtained without other poststaining. Considering the low cost, simplicity, and speed, Fura 2 staining may provide great practicalities in routine phosphoproteomics research.
Effect of synergists on organic pigment particle charging in apolar media
Authors: Gacek Matthew M. , Berg John C.
Published: February 2014

The current work investigates the apolar charging behavior of organic pigment particles and the role that synergists play in regard to particle charging. Organic pigments are often used in apolar paints, inks, and most recently electrostatic lithography. For electrolithography to work, the particles must be both stable and possess the correct polarity and magnitude of charge. It is therefore important to better understand the charging behavior and potential charging mechanisms of these particles that have received little or no attention in the literature. Unfortunately, these already complex systems are further complicated by the fact that the stability of organic pigments is often improved through the use of synergists. Synergists are designed to enhance the adsorption of steric stabilizers to the particles. However, their effect on particle charging has not been previously published. In this study, the particle zeta potential is determined for apolar dispersions of magenta and cyan particles in heptane (with and without synergist present). The particles are dispersed with three different surfactants commonly used in apolar charging studies: Span 80, Aerosol‐OT, and OLOA 11000. Acid–base interactions appear to play an important role, particularly for cyan. However, due to the complexity of these systems, any general rule must be applied with caution as the particle, surfactant, and synergist chemistry all determine the nature of the particle charge.
Simulation of a pilot‐scale dual‐fluidized‐bed gasifier for biomass
Authors: Liao Chang‐hsien , Summers Matthew , Seiser Reinhard , Cattolica Robert , Herz Richard
Published: February 2014

A dual‐fluidized‐bed gasifier was constructed and operated at the Woodland Biomass Research Center in Woodland, CA. The pilot‐scale gasifier had a capacity of 5 tons/day of feedstock and was based on the Pyrox process developed by Kunii et al. In this system, the fluidized‐bed combustion process with air is separated from the biomass gasification process with steam and recycle gas. This decreases the nitrogen content in the producer gas. The heat released in the combustion of the char is transported by a ceramic bed material circulating between the combustor and gasifier. Commercial wood pellets were used as feedstock for the present study. Gas composition, temperatures, and pressures were measured to characterize the operation of the gasifier. A positive feature of the system was the high circulation rate and efficient energy transfer between the combustor and gasifier. Analysis of the system was performed using Aspen Plus™ software to calculate mass and energy‐balances. A restricted equilibrium model for the producer‐gas composition agreed reasonably well with the measured non‐equilibrium gas composition for most gases. The restricted equilibrium model over‐predicted the H2 concentrations. A more complex rate‐based kinetic model would be necessary to fully capture the details of the non‐equilibrium gas composition in this pilot‐scale gasifier. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 33: 732–736, 2014
The effect of soil properties on the toxicity of silver to the soil nitrification process
Authors: Langdon Kate A. , McLaughlin Mike J. , Kirby Jason K. , Merrington Graham
Published: February 2014

Silver (Ag) is being increasingly used in a range of consumer products, predominantly as an antimicrobial agent, leading to a higher likelihood of its release into the environment. The present study investigated the toxicity of Ag to the nitrification process in European and Australian soils in both leached and unleached conditions. Overall, leaching of soils was found to have a minimal effect on the final toxicity data, with an average leaching factor of approximately 1. Across the soils, the toxicity was found to vary by several orders of magnitude, with concentrations of Ag causing a 50% reduction in nitrification relative to the controls (EC50) ranging from 0.43 mg Ag/kg to >640 mg Ag/kg. Interestingly, the dose–response relationships in most of the soils showed significant stimulation in nitrification at low Ag concentrations (i.e., hormesis), which in some cases produced responses up to double that observed in the controls. Soil pH and organic carbon were the properties found to have the greatest influence on the variations in toxicity thresholds across the soils, and significant relationships were developed that accounted for approximately 90% of the variability in the data. The toxicity relationships developed from the present study will assist in future assessment of potential Ag risks and enable the site-specific prediction of Ag toxicity. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:1170–1178. © 2014 SETAC
Hepatic cytochrome P450 ubiquitination: Conformational phosphodegrons for E2/E3 recognition?
Authors: Correia Maria Almira , Wang YongQiang , Kim Sung‐Mi , Guan Shenheng
Published: February 2014

Hepatic endoplasmic reticulum (ER) integral cytochromes P450 (P450s) are monooxygenases engaged in the biotransformation and elimination of endo‐ as well as xenobiotics. Of the human liver P450s, CYP3A4 is the major and most dominant catalyst responsible for the biotransformation of over 50% of clinically prescribed drugs. CYP2E1 metabolizes smaller molecular weight compounds (EtOH), carcinogens, environmental toxins, and endobiotics, and is justly implicated in various toxigenic/pathogenic mechanisms of human disease. Both P450s are notorious for their potential to generate pathogenic reactive oxygen species (ROS) during futile oxidative cycling and/or oxidative uncoupling. Such ROS not only oxidatively damage the P450 catalytic cage, but on their escape into the cytosol, also the P450 outer surface and any surrounding cell organelles. Given their ER‐monotopic topology coupled with this high potential to acquire oxidative lesions in their cytosolic (C) domain, not surprisingly these P450 proteins exhibit shorter lifespans and are excellent prototype substrates of ER‐associated degradation (“ERAD‐C”) pathway. Indeed, we have shown that both CYP3A4 and CYP2E1 incur ERAD‐C, during which they are first phosphorylated by protein kinases A and C, which greatly enhance/accelerate their ubiquitination by UBC7/gp78 and UbcH5a/CHIP/Hsp70/Hsp40 E2/E3 ubiquitin ligase complexes. Such P450 phosphorylation occurs on Ser/Thr residues within linear sequences as well as spatially clustered acidic (Asp/Glu) residues. We propose that such S/T phosphorylation within these clusters creates negatively charged patches or conformational phosphodegrons for interaction with positively charged E2/E3 domains. Such P450 S/T phosphorylation we posit serves as a molecular switch to turn on its ubiquitination and ERAD‐C. © 2014 IUBMB Life, 66(2):78–88, 2014
ENABLING AND CONSTRAINING FACTORS IN THE LIVELIHOODS OF POOR FISHERS IN WEST SUMATRA, INDONESIA
Authors: Stanford Richard J. , Wiryawan Budy , Bengen Dietriech G. , Febriamansyah Rudi , Haluan John
Published: February 2014

Despite a growing national economy and a raft of initiatives designed to improve livelihoods, 39% of fishers in West Sumatra are poor. In this paper, we present the results of interview‐based research with stakeholders in 25 fishing communities in West Sumatra, Indonesia. Thirty‐one enabling and constraining livelihood development factors are identified and classified according to the Sustainable Livelihoods Analysis. We recommend that these factors form a basis from which decision makers ensure that future livelihood improvement programs adequately recognize the integrated nature of poverty amongst poor fishers. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Matrix‐free single‐cell LDI‐MS investigations of the diatoms Coscinodiscus granii and Thalassiosira pseudonana
Authors: Jaschinski Tino , Helfrich Eric Jan Nikolaus , Bock Christian , Wolfram Stefanie , Svatoš Aleš , Hertweck Christian , Pohnert Georg
Published: February 2014

Single‐cell investigations of the diatoms Coscinodsicus granii and Thalassiosira pseudonana were performed using laser desorption/ionization (LDI)‐MS without the addition of chemical matrices. The unique cell wall architecture of these microalgae, more precisely the biomineralized nanostructured surface, supported the ionization of cellular as well as surface‐related metabolites. In model experiments with purified diatom cell walls of eight species C. granii and T. pseudonana proved to promote the ionization of the polymer polyethylene glycol most efficiently. These species were therefore chosen for further experiments. Without any additional workup, living diatom cells can be washed, can be placed on the LDI target and can immediately be profiled using LDI‐MS. Characteristic signals arising from the two species were assigned to common metabolites known from diatom metabolism. Among others, chlorophyll, phospholipids and amino acids were detected. Using these fingerprint signals, we were able to perform species‐specific MS imaging down to a single‐cell resolution of 20 by 20 µm. The larger C. granii cells can be directly visualized, while more than one of the smaller T. pseudonana cells is needed to generate high‐quality images. The introduced technique will pave the way toward a chemotyping of phytoplankton that will enable the automated annotation of microalgal species. But also, an assignment of metabolic plasticity on a single‐cell level that could answer fundamental questions about plankton diversity is now in reach. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Glutathionylated γG and γA subunits of hemoglobin F: a novel post‐translational modification found in extremely premature infants by LC‐MS and nanoLC‐MS/MS
Authors: Ehrmann David C. , Rose Kristie , Wade Calcutt M. , Beller Amy B. , Hill Salisha , Rogers Theresa J. , Steele Steven D. , Hachey David L. , Aschner Judy L.
Published: February 2014

Oxidative stress plays an important role in the development of various disease processes and is a putative mechanism in the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia, the most common complication of extreme preterm birth. Glutathione, a major endogenous antioxidant and redox buffer, also mediates cellular functions through protein thiolation. We sought to determine if post‐translational thiol modification of hemoglobin F occurs in neonates by examining erythrocyte samples obtained during the first month of life from premature infants, born at 23 0/7 – 28 6/7 weeks gestational age, who were enrolled at our center in the Prematurity and Respiratory Outcomes Program (PROP). Using liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC‐MS), we report the novel finding of in vivo and in vitro glutathionylation of γG and γA subunits of Hgb F. Through tandem mass spectrometry (nanoLC‐MS/MS), we confirmed the adduction site as the Cys‐γ94 residue and through high‐resolution mass spectrometry determined that the modification occurs in both γ subunits. We also identified glutathionylation of the β subunit of Hgb A in our patient samples; we did not find modified α subunits of Hgb A or F. In conclusion, we are the first to report that glutathionylation of γG and γA of Hgb F occurs in premature infants. Additional studies of this post‐translational modification are needed to determine its physiologic impact on Hgb F function and if sG‐Hgb is a biomarker for clinical morbidities associated with oxidative stress in premature infants. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Convolution powers of complex functions on
Authors: Diaconis Persi , Saloff‐Coste Laurent
Published: February 2014

Repeated convolution of a probability measure on leads to the central limit theorem and other limit theorems. This paper investigates what kinds of results remain without positivity. It reviews theorems due to Schoenberg, Greville, and Thomée which are motivated by applications to data smoothing (Schoenberg and Greville) and finite difference schemes (Thomée). Using Fourier transform arguments, we prove detailed decay bounds for convolution powers of finitely supported complex functions on . If M is an hermitian contraction, an estimate for the off‐diagonal entries of the powers of is obtained. This generalizes the Carne–Varopoulos Markov chain estimate.
Martingale problems for switched processes
Authors: Wang Jie‐Ming
Published: February 2014

Sufficient and necessary conditions are given for existence and uniqueness for the martingale problem associated with weakly coupled operator. Some result of convergence of martingale solutions is also obtained.
DrRad51 is required for chiasmata formation in meiosis in planarian Dugesia ryukyuensis
Authors: Chinone Ayako , Matsumoto Midori
Published: February 2014

Rad51, a conserved eukaryotic protein, mediates the homologous‐recombination repair of DNA double‐strand breaks that occur during both mitosis and meiosis. During prophase I of meiosis, homologous recombination enhances the linkage between homologous chromosomes to increase the accuracy of segregation at anaphase I. In polyploidy situations, however, difficulties with homologous chromosome segregation often disrupt meiosis. Yet, triploid individuals of the planarian Dugesia ryukyuensis are able to produce functional gametes through a specialized form of meiosis. To shed light on the molecular mechanisms that promote successful meiosis in triploid D. ryukyuensis, we investigated rad51 gene function. We isolated three genes of the Rad51 family, the Rad51 homolog Dr‐rad51 and the Rad51 paralogs Dr‐rad51B and Dr‐rad51C. Dr‐rad51 was expressed in germ‐line and presumably in somatic stem cells, but was not necessary for the regeneration of somatic tissue. RNA‐interference (RNAi) depletion of Dr‐rad51 during sexualization did not affect chromosome behavior in zygotene oocytes, but did result in the loss of chiasmata at the diplotene stage. Thus, homologous recombination does not appear to be necessary for synapsis, but is needed for crossover and proper segregation in D. ryukyuensis. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 81: ???–???, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diagnostic overview of blood‐based dysferlin protein assay for dysferlinopathies
Authors: Ankala Arunkanth , Nallamilli Babi R. , Rufibach Laura E. , Hwang Esther , Hegde Madhuri R.
Published: February 2014

Introduction: Dysferlin deficiency causes dysferlinopathies. Among peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), the dysferlin protein is expressed specifically in CD14+ monocytes. Methods: We quantified dysferlin protein levels in PBMC lysates of 77 individuals suspected clinically of having a dysferlinopathy to screen for true positives. Subsequent molecular confirmation was done by Sanger sequencing and comparative genomic hybridization arrays to establish diagnosis. Results: Of the 44 individuals who had significantly reduced dysferlin levels (≤10%), 41 underwent molecular testing. We identified at least 1 mutation in 85% (35 of 41), and 2 mutations, establishing a dysferlinopathy diagnosis, in 61% (25 of 41) of these individuals. Among those with dysferlin protein levels of >10% (33 of 77), only 1 individual (of 14 who underwent molecular testing) had a detectable mutation. Conclusions: Our results suggest that dysferlin protein levels of ≤10% in PBMCs, are highly indicative of primary dysferlinopathies. However, this assay may not distinguish carriers from those with secondary dysferlin reduction. Muscle Nerve 50: 333–339, 2014
Development of in situ generated graphene/benzoxazine‐epoxy nanocomposite for capacitor applications
Authors: Sahila S. , Jayakumari L.S.
Published: February 2014

We report an effective way to develop thermally strong and multifunctional cardanol‐based nanocomposite using graphene as nanofiller. New benzoxazine monomer was synthesized by using bio‐product cardanol, aniline, and formaldehyde. Benzoxazine‐graphene nanocomposites (pba‐g) were prepared by in situ polymerization. The pba‐g precursor was copolymerized with diglycidyl ether of bisphenol‐A at different loading level to make copolymer. Benzoxazine monomer was characterized by Fourier transform infra red spectroscopy (FTIR) and NMR. Graphene was characterized by FTIR, XRD, SEM, and TEM. Benzoxazine‐graphene/epoxy (epba‐g) nanocomposites have been characterized by FTIR, thermogravimetric analysis, and inductance capacitance and resistance meter. Both the thermal and electrical properties of epba‐g were significantly improved compared with those of pure epoxy (ep) matrix. The dielectric constant of epba‐g was 11, which was four times higher than that of pure epoxy matrix. POLYM. COMPOS., 36:1–7, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Synthesis and evaluation of swelling kinetics of electric field responsive poly(vinyl alcohol)‐g‐polyacrylic acid/OMNT nanocomposite hydrogels
Authors: Boruah Monalisha , Mili Medha , Sharma Shyamalima , Gogoi Biswajit , Kumar Dolui Swapan
Published: February 2014

Novel electro‐responsive nanocomposite hydrogels were prepared by the radical graft polymerization reaction of partially neutralized acrylic acid on poly(vinyl alcohol) and organically modified MMT nanoclay (OMMT) using glutaraldehyde as a crosslinker and potassium initiator. The structures of the hydrogels were confirmed by using Fourier transform infrared, X‐ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy study. The nanocomposite hydrogels were characterized by evaluating such molecular weight between crosslinks, (Mc) crosslinking density (ρ), and mesh size (ξ). The effects of various parameters on the swelling behavior of the hydrogels were studied. The thermogravimetric analysis indicated that introduction of clay resulted in an increase in thermal stability. Finally, the electric stimuli responsive measurement indicates the bending of hydrogel toward the cathode in an aqueous solution of NaCl. POLYM. COMPOS., 36:34–41, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Two‐terminal metal‐inter‐connected multijunction III–V solar cells
Authors: Lin Chieh‐Ting , McMahon William E. , Ward James S. , Geisz John F. , Wanlass Mark W. , Carapella Jeffrey J. , Olavarria Waldo , Perl Emmett E. , Young Michelle , Steiner Myles A. , France Ryan M. , Kibbler Alan E. , Duda Anna , Moriarty Tom E. , Friedman Daniel J. , Bowers John E.
Published: February 2014

A novel bonding approach with an interface consisting of a metal and dielectric is developed, and a “pillar‐array” metal topology is proposed for minimal optical and electrical loss at the interface. This enables a fully lattice‐matched two‐terminal, four‐junction device that consists of an inverted top two‐junction (2J) cell with 1.85 eV GaInP/1.42 eV GaAs, and an upright lower 2J cell with ~1 eV GaInAsP/0.74 eV GaInAs aimed for concentrator applications. The fabrication process and simulation of the metal topology are discussed along with the results of GaAs/GaInAs 2J and (GaInP + GaAs)/GaInAs three‐junction bonded cells. Bonding‐related issues are also addressed along with optical coupling across the bonding interface. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Permafrost in Alpine Rock Faces from Jotunheimen and Hurrungane, Southern Norway
Authors: Hipp T. , Etzelmüller B. , Westermann S.
Published: February 2014

The warming and degradation of mountain permafrost within alpine areas is an important process influencing the stability of steep slopes and rock faces. In the mountains of southern Norway (Jotunheimen), an increase in ground temperatures has been recorded during the last 12 years, and modelling studies suggest the possible degradation of most mountain permafrost during the 21st century. To better estimate the thermal state of permafrost in steep rock walls in Norway, five temperature loggers were installed in 2009 and 2010, measuring the near‐surface rock wall temperatures in vertical rock faces. Surface temperatures in rock walls in Norway are on average higher than the ambient air temperature, by about 1 °C in shaded faces to more than 3 °C in faces with other aspects. An aspect dependency of rock wall temperatures is mainly visible during summer, with deviations of up to 4 °C between north‐ and south‐facing walls. Based on a 1D transient heat flow model, the active‐layer thickness at the study sites was estimated to be in the range of 3 m to 5 m at 2300 m asl and 1600 m asl, respectively. As a first‐order approximation, a spatial regression model based on elevation and potential incoming short‐wave radiation was used to estimate the lower limit and distribution of rock wall permafrost under present‐day conditions and for a scenario with average air temperatures increased by 2 °C. Today, the lower limit ranges from 1200–1300 m asl to 1600–1700 m asl in north‐ and south‐facing rock walls, respectively. With a warming of 2 °C, the lower limit would increase to about 1700 m and 2100 m, respectively, which corresponds to a loss of 70 per cent of the rock walls underlain by permafrost today in the study area, where more than half of the rock walls potentially containing permafrost are situated below 1800 m asl. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Doping and characterization of impurity atoms in Si and Ge nanowires
Authors: Fukata Naoki
Published: February 2014

Si and Ge nanowires (SiNWs and GeNWs) are of great interest due to their novel physical properties. They are considered to be desirable materials for the next‐generation metal‐oxide semiconductor field‐effect transistors (MOSFETs) and solar cells. Impurity doping is one of the important techniques to functionalize SiNWs and GeNWs. The crucial point is how the states of impurity atoms can be clarified. In order to realize it, we applied Raman scattering, electron spin resonance, and x‐ray diffraction methods. These results showed that B and P atoms were doped and electrically activated in SiNWs and GeNWs, showing the formation of p‐type and n‐type NWs. Recently, Si/Ge and Ge/Si core‐shell NWs were grown and the site‐selective doping was demonstrated. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
N‐type in‐situ doping effect on vapour‐liquid‐solid silicon nanowire properties for gas sensing applications
Authors: Pichon L. , Rogel R. , Jacques E. , Salaun A. C.
Published: February 2014

N‐type in‐situ doped SiNWs based resistors are fabricated and used as gas (ammonia) sensors. SiNWs are prepared by vapour‐liquid‐solid method (VLS) using gold as catalyst. In‐situ doping level is adjusted by varying the phosphine to silane mole ratio. Because SiNWs can act as sensitive units specific design is developed to allow large sensing areas, following a process fabrication compatible with a mass production planar layout. SiNWs doping effect on ammonia detection is carried out under controlled ammonia/nitrogen mixture varying from 2 ppm to 700 ppm. Results highlight that the relative response, Sg=(I0‐Ig)/I0, where I0 and Ig are the current values in vacuum and reactive ambient respectively, follows a linear behaviour. The relative sensitivity, (S=ΔSg/Δ[NH3]) decreases, whereas the sensitivity (SxI0) increases with the increase of the VLS SiNWs doping level. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Electrical and optical properties of mixed phase tungsten trioxide films grown by laser pyrolysis
Authors: Govender M. , Mwakikunga B. W. , Machatine A. G. J. , Kunert H. W.
Published: February 2014

Laser pyrolysis was chosen to synthesize tungsten trioxide starting with tungsten ethoxide precursor. The film was found to have a thickness that varied from 205 nm to 1 µm. X‐ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy confirmed the presence of a mixture of hexagonal and tetragonal phase WO3 in the synthesized film, as well as tungsten bronzes. It was evident that annealing greatly influenced the phases and types of structures formed, and EDXS was carried out in an attempt to quantify the tungstate bronzes to tungsten oxide. I‐V curves of the films showed n‐type semiconducting behaviour, but the mixed phase appeared to cause a similar behaviour of dopants in a semiconductor. The refractive index decreased with increasing wavelength and gave values of up to 21 at low wavelengths. The average optical band gap was found to be 3.6 eV from UV/Vis spectroscopy. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) showed a mixture of nano‐ and microstructures after annealing. Nanorod structures were isolated and Pt‐contacted using FIB for possible applications such as an active sensing medium in gas sensors. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Detection limits in XPS for more than 6000 binary systems using Al and Mg Kα X‐rays
Authors: Shard Alexander G.
Published: February 2014

A simple approach to estimating the detection limits of X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) for any element in any elemental matrix is presented, using the intensity of the background at the expected position for the photoelectron peak to be detected. The approach has been extended to estimate the detection limit for all elements from lithium to bismuth in a similar range of elemental matrices. Using a number of assumptions, it is possible to obtain a reasonable estimate of the background intensity at any electron kinetic energy in the XPS spectrum of an element. Therefore, a detection limit for an arbitrary element homogeneously distributed in that matrix can be estimated. The results show that, although most elements are detectable at about the 1 at.% to 0.1 at.% level, for heavy elements in a light element matrix, the detection limit can be better than 0.01 at.%, whereas for light elements in a heavy element matrix, detection limits above 10 at.% are not uncommon. Two charts detailing the detection limits for all combinations of trace and matrix elements from lithium (Z = 3) to bismuth (Z = 83) are provided for Al Kα and Mg Kα X‐ray sources using a typical hemispherical analyser instrument which provides 106 counts eV for the Ag 3d5/2 peak from pure silver. These detection limits can be scaled to estimate the detection limits for any given instrument and operating conditions if the intensity of the Ag 3d5/2 peak from pure silver under those conditions is known. © 2014 Crown Copyright. Surface and Interface Analysis © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Profiling of rutin‐mediated alleviation of cadmium‐induced oxidative stress in Zygophyllum fabago
Authors: Yildiztugay Evren , Ozfidan‐Konakci Ceyda
Published: February 2014

Zygophyllum fabago grows in arid, saline soil, or disturbed sites, such as former industrial or mining areas. This species is able to grow in coarse mineral substrates contaminated with heavy metals. To investigate the effects of the flavonoid rutin (Rtn) on certain heavy metal stress responses such as antioxidant defense systems and water status, seedlings were subjected to 100 and 200 μM CdCl2 treatment without or with 0.25 and 1 mM Rtn for 7 and 14 d (days). Cd stress decreased growth (RGR), water content (RWC), leaf osmotic potential (ΨΠ), and chlorophyll fluorescence, all of which could be partly alleviated by addition of Rtn. Activities of superoxide dismutase, peroxidase (POX), ascorbate peroxidase, and glutathione reductase increased within the first 7 d after exposure to Cd. However, failure of antioxidant defense in the scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was evidenced by an abnormal rise in superoxide anion radical (
) and hydrogen peroxide contents and a decline in hydroxyl radical (OH•) scavenging activity, resulting in enhancement of lipid peroxidation (TBARS) as a marker of Cd‐induced oxidative stress. However, exogenously applied Rtn considerably improved the stress tolerance of plants via a reduction in Cd accumulation, modulation of POX activity, increase of proline (Pro) content, decrease in TBARS and ROS content and consequent lowering of oxidative damage of membrane. Overall, 0.25 and 1 mM Rtn could protect Z. fabago from the harmful effects of 100 μM Cd‐induced oxidative stress throughout the experiment. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 30: 816–835, 2015.
Non‐contact vacuum pumps
Authors: Salikeev Sergey , Burmistrov Aleksey , Bronshtein Mikhail , Fomina Marina
Published: February 2014

Non‐contact oil‐free vacuum pumps are widely used in different technological processes such as nanomaterials industry, pharmaceuticals industry, food industry, medicine, etc., thanks to absence of oil seal, high discharge, long operating life, yet low energy consumption. Scroll pumps are of particular interest as they make it possible to isolate bearing assemblies with grease from the working volume of the pump with the help of bellows.

Pumping characteristics of non‐contact vacuum pumps are greatly influenced by backward leakage through slot channels of the rotor mechanism. The conductance is the main value characterizing backward leakage. In this paper an efficient method for prompt conductance calculation of slot channels with any geometry with the minimal clearance at a certain point along gas flow direction is presented. The calculation error of the presented method does not exceed 6%.

The presented method was used in mathematical models for the pumping process of scroll pumps, claw pumps and Roots pumps. This method is recommended for pumping characteristics calculation of different non‐contact pumps and gas flow rates in vacuum systems channels.
Energieeffizienz in der Vakuumtechnik
Authors: Reichmann Carsten , Kessler Alois , Siegismund Volker
Published: February 2014

Vakuum wird in den unterschiedlichsten Prozessen an verschiedensten Produkte eingesetzt und ist aus dem täglichen Leben nicht mehr wegzudenken. Die zur Vakuumbereitstellung eingesetzten Pumpen verbrauchen eine teilweise erhebliche Energiemenge und sollten deshalb so effizient wie möglich gebaut und betrieben werden. Um das vorhandene Einsparpotenzial zu erschließen, werden unterschiedliche Verbesserungsmaßnahmen betrachtet und bewertet. Insgesamt könnten damit europaweit jährlich 982 GWh Energie eingespart werden, wovon 629 GWh als wirtschaftlich umsetzbar zu betrachten sind. Die betrachteten Verbesserungsmöglichkeiten betreffen nur die direkte Vakuumerzeugung, Optimierungspotenziale von Basistechnologien (z.B. Antriebe, Steuerung, etc.) werden außer Acht gelassen. Die Ergebnisse werden in einer Energieeinspar‐Potenzialkurve dargestellt und diskutiert.
Substitution of the CdS buffer layer in CIGS thin‐film solar cells
Authors: Witte Wolfram , Spiering Stefanie , Hariskos Dimitrios
Published: February 2014

This contribution provides an overview of current activities in the area of alternative buffer layers for Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2 (CIGS) thin‐film solar cells. Good cell and module results were achieved by replacing the standard Cds buffer with Zn(O,S), In2S3, (Zn,Sn)Oy or (Zn,Mg)O grown by various methods like chemical bath deposition (CBD), thermal evaporation, sputtering, atomic layer deposition, and spray ion layer gas reaction. The “dry” deposition methods like sputtering and thermal evaporation could be favorable in an industrial environment on glass substrates or application in a roll‐to‐roll coater. Significant progress was made within the last two years for various Cd‐free CIGS devices. We list current records for cells with alternative buffers, e. g. Zn(O,S)‐buffered champion cells with efficiencies between 18—20 % and In2S3‐buffered cells with 16—17 %. Both materials have the potential to substitute CdS with efficiencies approaching the 20 % mark already surpassed by CIGS cells with CBD CdS buffers.
Tagungen: Vakuum in Forschung und Praxis 1/2014
Authors: Kaiser Norbert
Published: February 2014

V2013 Workshop „Beschichtungen für den optischen Gerätebau”︁
Risk factors for severe bacterial infections in patients with systemic autoimmune diseases receiving rituximab
Authors: Heusele Marion , Clerson Pierre , Guery Benoit , Lambert Marc , Launay David , Lefevre Guillaume , Morell-Dubois Sandrine , Maillard Hélène , Le Gouellec Noémie , Hatron Pierre-Yves , Hachulla Eric
Published: February 2014

The risk of serious bacterial infectious events (SIEs) after an RTX course used in severe and refractory cases of systemic autoimmune diseases (SAID) is well known. Risk factors for SIEs merit investigation. For this case–control study, data were collected in a single centre of internal medicine and included all patients who received rituximab (RTX) for SAID between 2005 and 2011 (rheumatoid arthritis was excluded). Sixty-nine patients with SAID received a total of 87 RTX courses. Thirteen SIEs were reported in 12 patients leading to death in 5 patients. Patients with a history of SIE were significantly older (63.6 ± 18.8 vs 48.8 ± 16.7; p = 0.0091), suffered most frequently of diabetes mellitus (33.3 % vs 5.3 %, p = 0.015), had a lower CD19 count (1.0 ± 1.2/mm3 vs 3.9 ± 7.2/mm3) and had most frequently a prednisone dose >15 mg/day (91.7 % vs 47.7 %) at the start of the first RTX course. The SIE rate was 18.7 per 100 patient-years. At the initiation of the RTX course, risk factors for SIEs were lower IgG levels (OR = 0.87, 95%CI = 0.77–0.99, p = 0.03), lower CD19 count (OR = 0.85, 95%CI = 0.73–1.00) and creatinine clearance ≤ 45 ml/min (OR = 7.78, 95%CI = 1.36–44.38, p = 0.002). Conversely history of pneumococcal vaccination significantly decreased the risk of SIEs (OR = 0.11, 95%CI = 0.03–0.41, p = 0.0009). Concomitant treatment with prednisone at a dose >15 mg/day significantly increased the SIE risk (OR = 8.07, 95%CI = 1.94–33.59, p = 0.0004). SIEs are frequent in SAID treated with RTX, particularly in patients receiving high-dose corticosteroids, in patients with renal insufficiency and in patients with low IgG levels or a low CD19 count.
Directed modification of the Aspergillus usamii β-mannanase to improve its substrate affinity by in silico design and site-directed mutagenesis
Authors: Li Jianfang , Wei Xihuan , Tang Cunduo , Wang Junqing , Zhao Mei , Pang Qingfeng , Wu Minchen
Published: February 2014

β-Mannanases (EC 3.2.1.78) can catalyze the cleavage of internal β-1,4-d-mannosidic linkages of mannan backbones, and they have found applications in food, feed, pulp and paper, oil, pharmaceutical and textile industries. Suitable amino acid substitution can promote access to the substrate-binding groove and maintain the substrate therein, which probably improves the substrate affinity and, thus, increases catalytic efficiency of the enzyme. In this study, to improve the substrate affinity of AuMan5A, a glycoside hydrolase (GH) family 5 β-mannanase from Aspergillus usamii, had its directed modification conducted by in silico design, and followed by site-directed mutagenesis. The mutant genes, Auman5AY111F and Auman5AY115F, were constructed by megaprimer PCR, respectively. Then, Auman5A and its mutant genes were expressed in Pichia pastoris GS115 successfully. The specific activities of purified recombinant β-mannanases (reAuMan5A, reAuMan5AY111F and reAuMan5AY115F) towards locust bean gum were 152.5, 199.6 and 218.9 U mg−1, respectively. The two mutants were found to be similar to reAuMan5A regarding temperature and pH characteristics. Nevertheless, the K  m values of reAuMan5AY111F and reAuMan5AY115F, towards guar gum, decreased to 2.95 ± 0.22 and 2.39 ± 0.33 mg ml−1 from 4.49 ± 0.07 mg ml−1 of reAuMan5A, which would make reAuMan5AY111F and reAuMan5AY115F promising candidates for industrial processes. Structural analysis showed that the two mutants increased their affinity by decreasing the steric conflicts with those more complicated substrates. The results suggested that subtle conformational modification in the substrate-binding groove could substantially alter the substrate affinity of AuMan5A. This study laid a solid foundation for the directed modification of substrate affinities of β-mannanases and other enzymes.
Pharmacologic inhibition of L‐tyrosine degradation ameliorates cerebral dopamine deficiency in murine phenylketonuria (PKU)
Authors: Harding Cary O. , Winn Shelley R. , Gibson K. Michael , Arning Erland , Bottiglieri Teodoro , Grompe Markus
Published: February 2014

Monoamine neurotransmitter deficiency has been implicated in the etiology of neuropsychiatric symptoms associated with chronic hyperphenylalaninemia in phenylketonuria (PKU). Two proposed explanations for neurotransmitter deficiency in PKU include first, that chronically elevated blood L‐phenylalanine (Phe) inhibits the transport of L‐tyrosine (Tyr) and L‐tryptophan (Trp), the substrates for dopamine and serotonin synthesis respectively, into brain. In the second hypothesis, elevated Phe competitively inhibits brain tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH) activities, the rate limiting steps in dopamine and serotonin synthesis. Dietary supplementation with large neutral amino acids (LNAA) including Tyr and Trp has been recommended for individuals with chronically elevated blood Phe in an attempt to restore amino acid and monoamine homeostasis in brain. As a potential alternative treatment approach, we demonstrate that pharmacologic inhibition of Tyr degradation through oral administration of nitisinone (NTBC) yielded sustained increases in blood and brain Tyr, decreased blood and brain Phe, and consequently increased dopamine synthesis in a murine model of PKU. Our results suggest that Phe‐mediated inhibition of TH activity is the likely mechanism of impaired dopamine synthesis in PKU. Pharmacologic inhibition of Tyr degradation may be a promising adjunct therapy for CNS monoamine neurotransmitter deficiency in hyperphenylalaninemic individuals with PKU.
Stabilization of cyclohexanone monooxygenase by a computationally designed disulfide bond spanning only one residue
Authors: van Beek Hugo L. , Wijma Hein J. , Fromont Lucie , Janssen Dick B. , Fraaije Marco W.
Published: February 2014

Enzyme stability is an important parameter in biocatalytic applications, and there is a strong need for efficient methods to generate robust enzymes. We investigated whether stabilizing disulfide bonds can be computationally designed based on a model structure. In our approach, unlike in previous disulfide engineering studies, short bonds spanning only a few residues were included. We used cyclohexanone monooxygenase (CHMO), a Baeyer–Villiger monooxygenase (BVMO) from Acinetobacter sp. NCIMB9871 as the target enzyme. This enzyme has been the prototype BVMO for many biocatalytic studies even though it is notoriously labile. After creating a small library of mutant enzymes with introduced cysteine pairs and subsequent screening for improved thermostability, three stabilizing disulfide bonds were identified. The introduced disulfide bonds are all within 12 Å of each other, suggesting this particular region is critical for unfolding. This study shows that stabilizing disulfide bonds do not have to span many residues, as the most stabilizing disulfide bond, L323C–A325C, spans only one residue while it stabilizes the enzyme, as shown by a 6 °C increase in its apparent melting temperature.
Posterior Interosseus Nerve Palsy Resulting From Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Pseudotumor: Case Presentation
Authors: Ali Rushna , Yang Lynda J.‐S. , Henning P. Troy
Published: February 2014

Local compression by a mass lesion is a potential cause of posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) palsy. Reported cases of PIN pathology do not include inflammatory myofibroblastic pseudotumor. We report the case of a 44‐year‐old woman with a 3‐month history of progressive weakness of the left finger extensors. Sonographic imaging identified a mass compressing the PIN, and histologic examination of the specimen revealed an inflammatory myofibroblastic pseudotumor. Complete resection of the mass while sparing the nerve was possible, and the patient has regained functional use of the left hand. The differential diagnosis of PIN palsy should include inflammatory myofibroblastic pseudotumor.
Septic Bursitis After Ultrasound‐guided Percutaneous Treatment of Rotator Cuff Calcific Tendinopathy
Authors: Sconfienza Luca Maria , Randelli Filippo , Sdao Silvana , Sardanelli Francesco , Randelli Pietro
Published: February 2014

Calcific tendinopathy of the rotator cuff is a common condition. Ultrasound‐guided percutaneous aspiration is one of several options to treat this condition. The main advantages of this procedure are short duration, good outcome, and low cost. Furthermore, only minor complications have been reported in the literature, namely, vagal reactions during the procedure and mild postprocedural pain. We report the first case of septic bursitis after ultrasound‐guided percutaneous treatment of calcific tendinopathy. Although this is generally considered a very safe procedure, a risk of infection should be taken into account.
Three strains of Wolbachia pipientis and high rates of infection in Iranian sandfly species
Authors: Bordbar A. , Soleimani S. , Fardid F. , Zolfaghari M.R. , Parvizi P.
Published: February 2014

Individual wild-caught sandflies from Iran were examined for infections of Wolbachia pipientis by targeting the major surface protein gene wsp of this intracellular α-proteobacterium. In total, 638 male and female sandflies were screened, of which 241 were found to be positive for one of three wsp haplotypes. Regardless of geographical origins and habitats, Phlebotomus (Phlebotomus) papatasi and other sandfly species were found to be infected with one common, widespread strain of A-group W. pipientis (Turk 54, GenBank accession EU780683; AY288297). In addition, a new A-group haplotype (Turk07, GenBank accession KC576916) was isolated from Phlebotomus (Paraphlebotomus) mongolensis and Phlebotomus (Pa.) caucasicus, and a new B-group haplotype (AZ2331, GenBank accession JX488735) was isolated from Phlebotomus (Larroussius) perfiliewi. Therefore, Wolbachia was found to occur in at least three of the incriminated vectors of zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis and zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis in different geographical regions of Iran. It may provide a new tool for the future control of leishmaniasis.
FRANÇOIS COUPERIN,MORALISTE?
Authors: CEBALLOS SARA GROSS
Published: February 2014

At the turn of the eighteenth century Jean de La Bruyère and many contemporary authors in diverse literary genres undertook intense studies of character that moved beyond popular portraiture to level moral critiques of the social dissimulation rampant in the era. The literary works from François Couperin's personal library and his musical character studies suggest that he too was intrigued with moral issues surrounding character. While musicologists have suggested connections between the character pieces of Couperin and the character studies of La Bruyère, existing comparisons between the two do not explore the moral dimensions of both literary and musical character studies. In this article, I argue that selected musical works from Couperin's four books ofpièces de clavecinparticipated vitally in the moral discourse of the era, taking up similar subject matter to widely read moralistes such as La Bruyère but employing music to articulate social criticism. By making use of the media of music and performance, Couperin's musical portraits extend the scope and power of literary moralism, enlisting musical performance to critique the social performance of false identities.
Between History and Heritage: Post-Colonialism, Globalisation, and the Remaking of Malacca, Penang, and Singapore
Authors: Goh Daniel P.S.
Published: February 2014

The three cities of Malacca, Penang and Singapore share a century-long history as the British Straits Settlements, with similar multicultural traditions and urban morphology of dense shophouse districts. In the post-colonial period, these have been the basis for the production of heritage for urban renewal, civic identity formation, and international tourism. Yet, each city has approached the production of its history as heritage in different ways. The differences have been specified in terms of whether heritage production has been led by the state, market or civil society, and criticised as ideology or ambivalently interpreted as formative of identity in the face of globalisation. As colonial port-cities integrating into or becoming a new nation-state, I argue that the production of heritage in the three cities is driven by the politics of post-colonial identity interacting with the political economy of urban redevelopment. I argue that the production of heritage is one facet in the production of space and an increasingly important one in globalising Asian urbanisms. We can specify the differences in production of heritage space in the three cities in terms of the orientation of imagination and the ends of production. I show that the three city-states have been interpreting its history for heritage production in either Asian or cosmopolitan imaginations and configuring its heritage production for either political identity formation or economic product development, or a mix of both. The differences, I demonstrate, are caused by the differing politics of post-colonial identity and economic development involving the three cities.