bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detecting the small island effect and nestedness of herpetofauna of the West Indies
Authors: Gao De , Perry Gad
Published: July 2016

To detect the small island effect (SIE) and nestedness patterns of herpetofauna of the West Indies, we derived and updated data on the presence/absence of herpetofauna in this region from recently published reviews. We applied regression‐based analyses, including linear regression and piecewise regressions with two and three segments, to detect the SIE and then used the Akaike's information criterion (AIC) as a criterion to select the best model. We used the NODF (a nestedness metric based on overlap and decreasing fill) to quantify nestedness and employed two null models to determine significance. Moreover, a random sampling effort was made to infer about the degree of nestedness at portions of the entire community. We found piecewise regression with three segments performed best, suggesting the species–area relationships possess three different patterns that resulted from two area thresholds: a first one, delimiting the SIE, and a second one, delimiting evolutionary processes. We also found that taxa with lower resource requirement, higher dispersal ability, and stronger adaptation to the environment generally displayed lower corresponding threshold values, indicating superior taxonomic groups could earlier end the SIE period and start in situ speciation as the increase of island size. Moreover, the traditional two‐segment piecewise regression method may cause poor estimations for both slope and threshold value of the SIE. Therefore, we suggest previous SIE detection works that conducted by two‐segment piecewise regression method, ignoring the possibility of three segments, need to be reanalyzed. Antinestedness occurred in the entire system, whereas high degree of nestedness could still occur in portions within the region. Nestedness may still be applicable to conservation planning at portions even if it is antinested at the regional scale. However, nestedness may not be applicable to conservation planning at the regional scale even if nestedness does exist among sampling islands from a portion.
Late‐Stage Bromination Enables the Synthesis of Rubrolides B, I, K, and O
Authors: Karak Milandip , Acosta Jaime A. M. , Barbosa Luiz C. A. , Boukouvalas John
Published: July 2016

A concise and efficient synthesis of the marine natural products rubrolides B, I, K, and O was accomplished in 3–4 steps from commercially available 3,4‐dichloro‐2(5H)‐furanone. Key steps include: (i) a site‐selective Suzuki cross‐coupling, (ii) a vinylogous aldol condensation, and (iii) a late‐stage bromination. The latter reaction allowed functionalization of the aromatic rings in a highly regioselective fashion, enabling rapid access to the target rubrolides from common precursors.
Photoelectrochemical versus Electrochemical Detection of H2O2 Using an All‐inorganic Sensor Based on Nanostructured Copper Oxide
Authors: Rehosek Marco , Mitoraj Dariusz , Bledowski Michal , Beranek Radim
Published: July 2016

All‐inorganic nanostructured CuO sensors for both electrochemical and photolectrochemical detection of H2O2 were fabricated by electrodeposition and annealing, and compared in terms of their sensing properties. The calibration curves showed an excellent linearity in the H2O2 concentration range of 0.1–1.0 mM, with strong correlation in both electrochemical (R2>0.999) and photolectrochemical (R2>0.990) mode. The higher quality of the linear correlation in the electrochemical mode resulted in the lower limit of detection (LOD) of 0.06 mM, as compared to 0.18 mM in the photoelectrochemical mode. The sensitivity in the electrochemical and photoelectrochemical mode was −73.7 µA cm−2 mM−1 and −46.4 µA cm−2 mM−1, respectively. The signal‐to‐noise ratio, performance stability, and selectivity in the presence of various interference compounds (catechol, cysteine, dopamine, nitrate, and uric acid) were found to be better in the photoelectrochemical mode. The photoaction spectra of the photoelectrochemical CuO sensor revealed a maximum in visible light (λ∼450 nm) which is advantageous in terms of the possibility to use low‐cost and highly stable light sources (LEDs). The demonstrated differences of sensor operation in different modes show that a careful analysis is necessary for realistic evaluation of distinct advantages associated with operation of sensors based on nanostructured semiconductors in either electrochemical or photoelectrochemical mode.
A force‐balanced control volume finite element method for multi‐phase porous media flow modelling
Authors: Gomes J. L. M. A. , Pavlidis D. , Salinas P. , Xie Z. , Percival J. R. , Melnikova Y. , Pain C. C. , Jackson M. D.
Published: July 2016

A novel method for simulating multi‐phase flow in porous media is presented. The approach is based on a control volume finite element mixed formulation and new force‐balanced finite element pairs. The novelty of the method lies in (i) permitting both continuous and discontinuous description of pressure and saturation between elements; (ii) the use of arbitrarily high‐order polynomial representation for pressure and velocity and (iii) the use of high‐order flux‐limited methods in space and time to avoid introducing non‐physical oscillations while achieving high‐order accuracy where and when possible. The model is initially validated for two‐phase flow. Results are in good agreement with analytically obtained solutions and experimental results. The potential of this method is demonstrated by simulating flow in a realistic geometry composed of highly permeable meandering channels. © 2016 The Authors International Journal for Numerical Methods in Fluids Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Non‐Precious Metal Catalysts Prepared By Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks: The Ligand Influence to Morphology and Performance
Authors: Barkholtz H. M. , Chong L. , Kaiser Z. B. , Liu D. J.
Published: July 2016

A new, “one‐pot” synthesis to produce highly active non‐PGM electrocatalysts for PEM fuel cells was previously developed by pyrolyzing Fe doped zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF) materials prepared by solid‐state interaction. Excellent catalytic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activities were found through rotating ring‐disk electrode (RRDE) and single fuel cell tests. In this study, we compared the ORR activities and structural properties of two catalysts derived from ZIFs containing imidazole and methyl imidazole ligands, respectively. Our results indicate that alkyl group substitution in the imidazolate ligand has a profound effect on the final catalyst performance.
Improvement of the Ohmic Loss Process Model of the Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell
Authors: Niya S. M. Rezaei , Phillips R. K. , Hoorfar M.
Published: July 2016

The impedance characteristics of the ohmic overpotential of the proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells are studied analytically using the process modeling approach. The water transport in the membrane, the cathode catalyst layer, and gas diffusion layer are analyzed. The analytical relation of the impedance of the ohmic loss is determined and is converted to an equivalent circuit. Then, the impedance of a PEM fuel cell is measured experimentally in different current densities, operating temperatures and the anode and cathode relative humidities. The measured impedances are compared with the predicted ones from the analytical model. It is shown that the predicted impedance characteristics are in great agreement with the measured ones in all different operating conditions.
Abnormal functional connectivity and cortical integrity influence dominant hand motor disability in multiple sclerosis: a multimodal analysis
Authors: Zhong Jidan , Nantes Julia C. , Holmes Scott A. , Gallant Serge , Narayanan Sridar , Koski Lisa
Published: July 2016

Functional reorganization and structural damage occur in the brains of people with multiple sclerosis (MS) throughout the disease course. However, the relationship between resting‐state functional connectivity (FC) reorganization in the sensorimotor network and motor disability in MS is not well understood. This study used resting‐state fMRI, T1‐weighted and T2‐weighted, and magnetization transfer (MT) imaging to investigate the relationship between abnormal FC in the sensorimotor network and upper limb motor disability in people with MS, as well as the impact of disease‐related structural abnormalities within this network. Specifically, the differences in FC of the left hemisphere hand motor region between MS participants with preserved (n = 17) and impaired (n = 26) right hand function, compared with healthy controls (n = 20) was investigated. Differences in brain atrophy and MT ratio measured at the global and regional levels were also investigated between the three groups. Motor preserved MS participants had stronger FC in structurally intact visual information processing regions relative to motor impaired MS participants. Motor impaired MS participants showed weaker FC in the sensorimotor and somatosensory association cortices and more severe structural damage throughout the brain compared with the other groups. Logistic regression analysis showed that regional MTR predicted motor disability beyond the impact of global atrophy whereas regional grey matter volume did not. More importantly, as the first multimodal analysis combining resting‐state fMRI, T1‐weighted, T2‐weighted and MTR images in MS, we demonstrate how a combination of structural and functional changes may contribute to motor impairment or preservation in MS. Hum Brain Mapp 37:4262–4275, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Oxytocin enhances cognitive control of food craving in women
Authors: Striepens Nadine , Schröter Franziska , Stoffel‐Wagner Birgit , Maier Wolfgang , Hurlemann René , Scheele Dirk
Published: July 2016

In developed countries, obesity has become an epidemic resulting in enormous health care costs for society and serious medical complications for individuals. The homeostatic regulation of food intake is critically dependent on top‐down control of reward‐driven food craving. There is accumulating evidence from animal studies that the neuropeptide oxytocin (OXT) is involved in regulating hunger states and eating behavior, but whether OXT also contributes to cognitive control of food craving in humans is still unclear. We conducted a counter‐balanced, double‐blind, within‐subject, pharmacological magnetic resonance imaging experiment involving 31 healthy women who received 24 IU of intranasal OXT or placebo and were scanned twice while they were exposed to pictures of palatable food. The participants were instructed either to imagine the immediate consumption or to cognitively control the urge to eat the food. Our results show a trend that OXT specifically reduced food craving in the cognitive control condition. On the neural level, these findings were paralleled by an increase of activity in the middle and superior frontal gyrus, precuneus, and cingulate cortex under OXT. Interestingly, the behavioral OXT effect correlated with the OXT‐induced changes in the prefrontal cortex and precuneus. Collectively, the present study provides first evidence that OXT plays a key role in the cognitive regulation of food craving in women by strengthening activity in a broad neurocircuitry implicated in top‐down control and self‐referential processing. Hum Brain Mapp 37:4276–4285, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Effects of Acute and Chronic Exercise on Skeletal Muscle Proteome
Authors: Petriz Bernardo A. , Gomes Clarissa P.C. , Almeida Jeeser A. , de Oliveira Getulio P. , Ribeiro Filipe M. , Pereira Rinaldo W. , Franco Octavio L.
Published: July 2016

Skeletal muscle plasticity and its adaptation to exercise is a topic that is widely discussed and investigated due to its primary role in the field of exercise performance and health promotion. Repetitive muscle contraction through exercise stimuli leads to improved cardiovascular output and the regulation of endothelial dysfunction and metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance and obesity. Considerable improvements in proteomic tools and data analysis have broth some new perspectives in the study of the molecular mechanisms underlying skeletal muscle adaptation in response to physical activity. In this sense, this review updates the main relevant studies concerning muscle proteome adaptation to acute and chronic exercise, from aerobic to resistance training, as well as the proteomic profile of natural inbred high running capacity animal models. Also, some promising prospects in the muscle secretome field are presented, in order to better understand the role of physical activity in the release of extracellular microvesicles and myokines activity. Thus, the present review aims to update the fast‐growing exercise‐proteomic scenario, leading to some new perspectives about the molecular events under skeletal muscle plasticity in response to physical activity. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 257–269, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Conservation, Innovation, and Bias: Embryonic Segment Boundaries Position Posterior, but Not Anterior, Head Horns in Adult Beetles
Authors: Busey Hannah A. , Zattara Eduardo E. , Moczek Armin P.
Published: July 2016

The integration of form and function of novel traits is a fundamental process during the developmental evolution of complex organisms, yet how novel traits and trait functions integrate into preexisting contexts remains poorly understood. Here, we explore the mechanisms by which the adult insect head has been able to integrate novel traits and features during its ontogeny, focusing on the cephalic horns of Onthophagus beetles. Specifically, using a microablation approach we investigate how different regions of the dorsal head of adult horned beetles relate to their larval and embryonic counterparts and test whether deeply conserved regional boundaries that establish the embryonic head might also facilitate or bias the positioning of cephalic horns along the dorsal adult head. We find that paired posterior horns—the most widespread horn type within the genus—are positioned along a border homologous to the embryonic clypeolabral (CL)–ocular boundary, and that this placement constitutes the ancestral form of horn positioning. In contrast, we observed that the phylogenetically much rarer anterior horns are positioned by larval head regions contained firmly within the CL segment and away from any major preexisting larval head landmarks or boundaries. Lastly, we describe the unexpected finding that ablations at medial head regions can result in ectopic outgrowths bearing terminal structures resembling the more anterior clypeal ridge. We discuss our results in the light of the developmental genetic mechanisms of head formation in holometabolous insects and the role of co‐option in innovation and bias in developmental evolution.
A Single Chance to Contact Multiple Targets: Distinct Osteocyte Morphotypes Shed Light on the Cellular Mechanism Ensuring the Robust Formation of Osteocytic Networks
Authors: Fritz Alan , Bertin Ariana , Hanna Patricia , Nualart Francisco , Marcellini Sylvain
Published: July 2016

The formation of the complex osteocytic network relies on the emission of long cellular processes involved in communication, mechanical strain sensing, and bone turnover control. Newly deposited osteocytic processes rapidly become trapped within the calcifying matrix, and, therefore, they must adopt their definitive conformation and contact their targets in a single morphogenetic event. However, the cellular mechanisms ensuring the robustness of this unique mode of morphogenesis remain unknown. To address this issue, we examined the developing calvaria of the amphibian Xenopus tropicalis by confocal, two‐photon, and super‐resolution imaging, and described flattened osteocytes lying within a woven bone structured in lamellae of randomly oriented collagen fibers. While most cells emit peripheral and perpendicular processes, we report two osteocytes morphotypes, located at different depth within the bone matrix and exhibiting distinct number and orientation of perpendicular cell processes. We show that this pattern is conserved with the chick Gallus gallus and suggest that the cellular microenvironment, and more particularly cell–cell contact, plays a fundamental role in the induction and stabilization of osteocytic processes. We propose that this intrinsic property might have been evolutionarily selected for its ability to robustly generate self‐organizing osteocytic networks harbored by the wide variety of bone shapes and architectures found in extant and extinct vertebrates.
Analysis of Cell Size in the Gastrula of Ten Frog Species Reveals a Correlation of Egg with Cell Sizes, and a Conserved Pattern of Small Cells in the Marginal Zone
Authors: Vargas Alexandra , Del Pino Eugenia M.
Published: July 2016

We investigated the relationship between egg and cell sizes in the early gastrula of ten species of frogs with eggs of 1,100–3,500 μm diameters. We asked whether differences in cell size of the vegetal region, blastocoel roof, and marginal zone of the early gastrula were associated with egg size. Alternatively, we proposed that cell size differences may associate with gastrulation characteristics. The analyzed species were as follows: Xenopus laevis, Engystomops randi, Engystomops coloradorum, Espadarana callistomma, Epipedobates machalilla, Epipedobates anthonyi, Epipedobates tricolor, Dendrobates auratus, Gastrotheca riobambae, and Eleutherodactylus coqui. A positive correlation between egg and cell size was detected in the three regions of the gastrula. The correlation was strong in the vegetal region and blastocoel roof, and weak in the marginal zone. Large eggs allowed the evolution of frog terrestrial reproductive modes by storing nourishment for the developing embryos. Large cells, laden with yolk, occur in the vegetal region. However, small cell size characterized the marginal zone and blastocoel roof. We proposed that small cells of the marginal zone are required for involution and blastopore formation. The evolution pressure toward small cells in the marginal zone contributed to maintain the blastopore as a universal feature of frog gastrulation in eggs of different sizes and gastrulation modes. Our comparative analysis revealed two fundamental and conserved properties of the frog early gastrula, the correlation of egg with cell sizes, and the general small size of cells in the marginal zone.
Rapid biodegradation of aflatoxin B1 by metabolites of Fusarium sp. WCQ3361 with broad working temperature range and excellent thermostability
Authors: Wang Cuiqiong , Li Zhongyuan , Wang Hui , Qiu Haiyan , Zhang Minghui , Li Shuang , Luo Xuegang , Song Yajian , Zhou Hao , Ma Wenjian , Zhang Tongcun
Published: July 2016

BACKGROUND

Contamination of food and feed by aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) poses serious economic and health problems worldwide, so the development of biological methods for effective AFB1 degradation is strongly required.

RESULTS

Among three AFB1‐degrading microorganisms isolated from moldy peanut, Fusarium sp. WCQ3361 could remove AFB1 extremely effectively, with a degradation ratio of 70.20% after 1 min and 95.38% after 24 h. Its degradation ratio was not much affected by temperature change (0–90 °C) and it also displayed excellent thermostability, maintaining 99.40% residual activity after boiling for 10 min. Since protease K could reduce the AFB1 degradation ratio by 55.15%, it is proposed that the effective component for AFB1 degradation is a protein. The AFB1 degradation ability of Fusarium sp. WCQ3361 was further verified by feed stock detoxification and the MTT test with HepG2 cells. In addition, no degradation products were detected by preliminary liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry, suggesting that AFB1 might be metabolized to products with different chemical characteristics from AFB1.

CONCLUSION

Fusarium sp. WCQ3361 is the first reported AFB1 degradation fungus belonging to the genus Fusarium with broad working temperature range, excellent thermostability and high activity, which provides a potential highly useful solution for dealing with AFB1 contamination in the human diet and animal feed. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Fermented goat milk improves antioxidant status and protects from oxidative damage to biomolecules during anemia recovery
Authors: Moreno‐Fernandez Jorge , Diaz‐Castro Javier , Alférez María JM , Boesch Christine , Nestares Teresa , López‐Aliaga Inmaculada
Published: July 2016

BACKGROUND

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is one of the most common nutritional problems in the world, and it is accepted that reactive oxygen species (ROS) production is altered during IDA. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of fermented goat and cow milks on enzymatic antioxidant activities and gene expression, and their role in protecting from oxidative damage during anemia recovery.

RESULTS

After feeding the fermented milks‐based diets (cow or goat), a significant elevation of some antioxidant endogenous enzymes was found, together with an increase in total antioxidant status (TAS), and a decrease in 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG) was recorded in animals consuming fermented goat milk‐based diet. In contrast, DNA strand breaks, hydroperoxides, 15‐F2t‐isoprostanes and protein carbonyl groups were lower in some tissues in animals fed fermented goat milk‐based diet, revealing an improvement in both systemic and cellular antioxidant activity of plasma and tissues due to fermented goat milk consumption.

CONCLUSION

Fermented goat milk consumption induces a protective increase in TAS together with lower oxidative damage biomarkers, revealing that the milk protects main cell bioconstituents (lipids, protein, DNA, prostaglandins) from evoked oxidative damage during anemia recovery. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of olive ripening degree and crusher typology on chemical and sensory characteristics of Correggiolo virgin olive oil
Authors: Morrone Lucia , Pupillo Sabrina , Neri Luisa , Bertazza Giampaolo , Magli Massimiliano , Rotondi Annalisa
Published: July 2016

BACKGROUND

In this study, two types of crusher, hammer and blade, were used to produce olive oils from cv. Correggiolo olives at four stages of ripeness, to analyse the effect of these two factors on oil quality indices (free acidity, peroxide value, UV absorption), on phenolic compounds content and sensory profiles. Differences in chemical and sensory data were analysed by two‐way ANOVA.

RESULTS

Ripeness exerted a stronger influence than the crushing equipment on quality indices, phenolic content and sensory evaluation; moreover the statistical significance of interaction between the factors considered suggests that they are intertwined. Differences in the texture of olive pastes obtained by squashing and crushing were clearly evident at the first stage of ripeness via observation with a scanning electron microscope. The stronger mechanical action of the hammer crusher also produced smaller pit fragments compared to the blade crusher, as shown by particle size analysis of the kernels fragments.

CONCLUSION

Knowledge about the interaction between ripening and crushing will allow olive oil producers to pursue a product of the quality most suitable for a particular type of consumer. For example, bitterness and pungency, characters recently connected with health effects because sensory markers of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) polyphenols, do not have a great sensory appeal for most consumers; however, there is a niche of gourmet estimators interested in these peculiar flavours and ready to pay a premium price for them. The producer will be able to customise the EVOO by modulating its chemical and sensory characteristics, especially the phenolic fraction, thus addressing the needs of consumers with different tastes. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Enzymatic extraction and characterisation of a thermostable collagen from swim bladder of rohu (Labeo rohita)
Authors: Gaurav Kumar Pal , Nidheesh Thadathil , Govindaraju Karadka , Jyoti  , Suresh Puthanveetil Velappan
Published: July 2016

BACKGROUND

The fish swim bladder is considered as a potential source of realistic collagen. Currently, processing of the Indian major carp rohu (Labeo rohita) generates an enormous quantity of non‐edible by‐products, including swim bladders, which are discarded as waste with no commercial value. In the present study, collagen was prepared from rohu swim bladder and its physicochemical and fibril‐forming capacities were assessed.

RESULTS

The collagen isolated from rohu swim bladder was characterised as type I, containing α1 and α2 chains with triple helical structure by sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and amino acid analysis. The extracted collagen denaturation temperature was found to be 42.16 °C by differential scanning calorimetry analysis and also exhibited a high solubility in the presence of low NaCl concentrations (0–0.6 mol L−1). The extracted collagen exhibited a high fibril‐formation capacity at a NaCl concentration of 1.5 mol L−1. Examination of the microstructure of collagen by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed a porous, sheet‐like film and a multilayered structure. The fibril formation capacity of collagen was also confirmed using SEM analysis.

CONCLUSION

The rohu swim bladder type I collagen was successfully extracted using an enzymatic method with a yield of 465.2 g kg−1 (dry weight basis) and was characterised as a well maintained triple helical structure. The extracted collagen exhibited a high fibril‐forming ability. The results of the present study confirm that utilisation of rohu swim bladder will open up a new avenue for the better disposal of by‐products and also help to minimise environmental pollution issues. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
3D interactive system based on vision computing of direct‐flective cameras
Authors: Li Xuan , Chen Chun‐Ho , Huang Yi‐Pai
Published: July 2016

A bare‐finger 3D interactive technology for portable devices was developed. Using directive‐flective cameras to reform the field of viewing, a blind working range close to the camera is eliminated. Moreover, the algorithm of vision computing, different from skin color detection, is presented to determine the positions of fingertips. The interactive range is workable from 1.5 to 50 cm above the entire surface of the display. The mean position error of less than 1 cm is achieved. This accuracy realizes a camera‐based 3D interactive system allowing for near‐distance functionality. Therefore, floating 3D images can be touched and interacted with, potentially creating more application and intuitive user‐machine interface.
Planar Riemann surfaces with uniformly distributed cusps: parabolicity and hyperbolicity
Authors: Matsuzaki Katsuhiko , Rodríguez José M.
Published: July 2016

We consider a planar Riemann surface R made of a non‐compact simply connected plane domain from which an infinite discrete set of points is removed. We give several conditions for the collars of the cusps in R caused by these points to be uniformly distributed in R in terms of Euclidean geometry. Then we associate a graph G with R by taking the Voronoi diagram for the uniformly distributed cusps and show that G represents certain geometric and analytic properties of R.
Cancer stem cell mediated acquired chemoresistance in head and neck cancer can be abrogated by aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 A1 inhibition
Authors: Kulsum Safeena , Sudheendra Holalugunda Vittalamurthy , Pandian Ramanan , Ravindra Doddathimmasandra Ramanjanappa , Siddappa Gangotri , R Nisheena , Chevour Priyanka , Ramachandran Balaji , Sagar Milind , Jayaprakash Aravindakshan , Mehta Alka , Kekatpure Vikram , Hedne Naveen , Kuriakose Moni A. , Suresh Amritha
Published: July 2016

Chemoresistance leading to disease relapse is one of the major challenges to improve outcome in head and neck cancers. Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs) are increasingly being implicated in chemotherapy resistance, this study investigates the correlation between CSC behavior and acquired drug resistance in in vitro cell line models. Cell lines resistant to Cisplatin (Cal‐27 CisR, Hep‐2 CisR) and 5FU (Cal‐27 5FUR) with high Resistance Indices (RI) were generated (RI ≥ 3) by short‐term treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cell lines with chemotherapeutic drugs (Cisplatin, Docetaxel, 5FU), using a dose‐incremental strategy. The cell lines (Cal‐27 DoxR, Hep‐2 DoxR, Hep‐2 5FUR) that showed low RI, nevertheless had a high cross resistance to Cisplatin/5FU (P < 0.05). Cal‐27 CisR and DoxR showed 12–14% enrichment of CD44+ cells, while CisR/5FUR showed 4–6% increase in ALDH1A1+ cells as compared to parental cells (P < 0.05). Increased expression of stem cell markers (CD44, CD133, NOTCH1, ALDH1A1, OCT4, SOX2) in these cell lines, correlated with enhanced spheroid/colony formation, migratory potential, and increased in vivo tumor burden (P < 0.05). Inhibition of ALDH1A1 in Cal‐27 CisR led to down regulation of the CSC markers, reduction in migratory, self‐renewal and tumorigenic potential (P < 0.05) accompanied by an induction of sensitivity to Cisplatin (P < 0.05). Further, ex vivo treatment of explants (n = 4) from HNSCC patients with the inhibitor (NCT‐501) in combination with Cisplatin showed a significant decrease in proliferating cells as compared to individual treatment (P = 0.001). This study hence suggests an ALDH1A1‐driven, CSC‐mediated mechanism in acquired drug resistance of HNSCC, which may have therapeutic implications. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Optimization of fibrin gelation for enhanced cell seeding and proliferation in regenerative medicine applications
Authors: Choi Won Il , Yameen Basit , Vilos Cristian , Sahu Abhishek , Jo Seong‐Min , Sung Daekyung , Tae Giyoong
Published: July 2016

In order to improve the cell seeding efficiency and cell compatibility inside porous tissue scaffolds, a method of fibrin gel‐mediated cell encapsulation inside the scaffold was optimized. Disc‐type poly(d,l‐glycolic‐co‐lactic acid) (PLGA) scaffolds without a dense surface skin layer were fabricated using an established solvent casting and particulate leaching method as a model porous scaffold, which showed high porosity ranging from 90 ± 2% to 96 ± 2%. The thrombin and fibrinogen concentration as precursors of fibrin gel was varied to control the gelation kinetics as measured by rheology analysis, and optimized conditions were developed for a uniform fibrin gel formation with the target cells inside the porous PLGA scaffold. The fibroblast cell seeding accompanied by a uniform fibrin gel formation at an optimized gelation condition inside the PLGA scaffold resulted in an increase in cell seeding efficiency, a better cell proliferation, and an increase in final cell density inside the scaffold. Scanning electron microscopy images revealed that cells were better spread and grown by fibrin gel encapsulation inside scaffold compared with the case of bare PLGA scaffold. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prenatal presentation of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia – a report of two sibs
Authors: Saleh Maha , Miron Ioana , Al‐Rukban Hadeel , Chitayat David , Nezarati Marjan M.
Published: July 2016

What's Already Known About This Topic?

There are no publications linking prenatally detected hepatic arteriovenous malformations (AVM) with the diagnosis of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT). To date only one case series reported symptomatic neonatal hepatic AVMs, none of which were detected prenatally.

What Does This Study Add?

We report two siblings with molecularly confirmed HHT who presented with symptomatic hepatic AVMs, one of which was detected prenatally. This report suggests that prenatal or neonatal hepatic AVMs merit evaluation for HHT.
Recent advances in nanofibrous assemblies based on β‐sheet‐forming peptides for biomedical applications
Authors: Waku Tomonori , Tanaka Naoki
Published: July 2016

Amyloid fibrils are supramolecular polymers with β‐sheet‐rich structures formed by polymerization of protein/peptide with intermolecular interaction. Amyloid fibrils have been miscast as toxic villains since they have historically been studied as pathogens associated with serious diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. However, recent studies on their toxicity and formation mechanism and discovery of their functionality in nature correct the misconception and strongly facilitate the possible use of β‐sheet‐forming peptides in designing novel nanomaterials. Self‐assembly based on β‐sheet‐forming peptides can provide highly ordered nanostructures under certain conditions. Therefore, ingenious design of the building block peptides allows the construction of nano‐assemblies, which contain large quantities of bio‐functional molecules, including drugs and bioactive peptides, and exhibit unique properties, such as assembly or disassembly in response to external stimulus or specific molecules. These properties provide a novel strategy for the creation of innovative nanomaterials, especially for biomedical applications. Here, we describe recent progress in the biomedical application of fibrous assemblies based on β‐sheet‐forming peptides, such as the suppression of aberrant protein aggregation, controlled release, tissue engineering and other applications. This review focuses not only on the function of the nanofibrous assemblies but also on the functions of component molecules, namely amyloidogenic peptides. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Polymerization of ethylene using a series of binuclear and a mononuclear Ni (II)‐based catalysts
Authors: Khoshsefat Mostafa , Zohuri Gholam Hossein , Ramezanian Navid , Ahmadjo Saeid , Haghpanah Meisam
Published: July 2016

A novel series of homo‐, bi‐, and mononuclear Ni(II)‐based catalysts (BNCn n = 1–4, MNC4) were used for ethylene polymerization. The optimum conditions for the catalyst BNC4 (the highest catalytic activity) was obtained at [Al]/[Ni]=2000/1, Tp = 42 °C, and tp = 20 min that was 1073 g PE/mmol Ni h. In theoretical study, steric and electronic effects of substituents and diimine backbone led to prominent influence on the catalyst behavior. The highest MV was resulted from polymerization using BNC4; however, the highest unsaturation content was obtained from BNC1. GPC analysis showed a broad MWD (PDI = 17.8). BNC1 and BNC2 in similar structures showed broad peaks in DSC thermogram, while BNC3 and BNC4 with more electronic effects showed a peak along with a wide shoulder. Monomer pressure increasing showed enhancing in activity of the BNC4, meanwhile a peak with shoulder to a single peak in DSC thermogram and uniformity in morphology of the resulted polymer were observed. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 3000–3011
Proteomics reveals reduced expression of transketolase in pyrimidine 5′‐nucleotidase deficient patients
Authors: Barasa Benjamin A. , van Oirschot Brigitte A. , Bianchi Paola , van Solinge Wouter W. , Heck Albert J. R. , van Wijk Richard , Slijper Monique
Published: July 2016

Purpose

To date, it remains a challenge to correctly and timely diagnose red blood cell (RBC) enzymopathies that result in hereditary nonspherocytic hemolytic anemia (HNSHA), the third most common of which is pyrimidine 5′‐nucleotidase (P5N) deficiency with just over 100 cases recognized and confirmed worldwide.

Experimental design

We have investigated the RBC proteome of a patient with P5N deficiency due to a homozygous frameshift mutation in the NT5C3A gene. Protein expression levels were analyzed against healthy controls and against patients with hemolytic anemia of different origin, to account for the patient's elevated reticulocyte versus RBC ratio.

Results

Stringent relative quantification of the patient's protein levels revealed reduced levels of P5N, and unexpectedly, also decreased levels of transketolase, an enzyme involved in the nonoxidative phase of the pentose phosphate pathway, one of the few key pathways active in RBCs. Immunoblotting of whole blood samples from this and other P5N‐deficient patients with dissimilar mutations indicated that P5N deficiency was correlated with reduced transketolase levels.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

Consequently, insight into patient RBC proteomes illustrates potential benefit of coupling quantitative proteomics strategies with routine HNSHA diagnostic procedures. Proteomics facilitates finding novel biomarkers for HNSHA patients, for example, suffering from P5N deficiency, providing new prospects for future diagnosis and therapy.
Catalytic Effect of Two Shapes of Nano‐Fe2O3 on Hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane Using a Non‐Isothermal Decomposition Kinetic Method
Authors: Gao Rong , Zhao Ningning , Liu Jianbing , Zhang Ting , Ma Haixia
Published: July 2016

Nanosized Fe2O3 particles (nano‐Fe2O3) with two shapes (tetrakaidecahedral and grainy) were synthesized by hydrothermal methods. The morphologies and structures were characterized using a combination of experimental techniques including X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Two composites containing CL‐20 (hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane, HNIW) and tetrakaidecahedral nano‐Fe2O3 [nmT‐Fe2O3/CL‐20] or grainy nano‐Fe2O3/CL‐20 (nmG‐Fe2O3/CL‐20) were prepared. The thermal behaviors of the two composites and pure CL‐20 were investigated using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Non‐isothermal decomposition kinetic parameters and the thermal decomposition mechanism of the two composites and CL‐20 were obtained. The apparent activation energy (Ea) of the main thermal decomposition reaction of CL‐20, nmT‐Fe2O3/CL‐20 and nmG‐Fe2O3/CL‐20 are 181.94, 179.17, and 176.18 kJ mol−1, respectively. The thermal decomposition mechanism of CL‐20 as well as nmT‐Fe2O3/CL‐20 was controlled by the Avrami‐Erofeev equation (n=2/5) assumed as random nucleation and subsequent growth, while, the reaction mechanism of the composite nmG‐Fe2O3/CL‐20 was controlled by the Mample Power law (n=1/2). The reason for this difference may be due to the different morphology and particle size of the two nano‐Fe2O3 particles.
Performance improvement of charge‐trap memory by using a stacked Zr0.46Si0.54O2/Al2O3 charge‐trapping layer
Authors: Tang Zhenjie , Li Rong , Hu Dan , Zhang Xiwei , Zhao Yage
Published: July 2016

The postdeposition annealing (PDA)‐treated charge‐trap flash memory capacitor with stacked Zr0.46Si0.54O2/Al2O3 charge‐trapping layer flanked by a SiO2 tunneling oxide and an Al2O3 blocking oxide was fabricated and investigated. It is observed that the memory capacitor exhibits prominent memory characteristics with large memory windows 12.8 V in a ±10 V gate sweeping voltage range, faster program/erase speed, and good data‐retention characteristics even at 125 °C compared to a single charge‐trapping layer (Zr0.46Si0.54O2, Zr0.79Si0.21O2, and Zr0.46Al1.08O2.54). The quantum wells and introduced interfacial traps of the stacked trapping layer regulate the storage and loss behavior of charges, and jointly contribute to the improved memory characteristics. Hence, the memory capacitor with a stacked trapping layer is a promising candidate in future nonvolatile charge‐trap memory device design and application.
Quantitative analysis of biogenic polyamines in distilled drinks by direct electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry using a nanocontainer
Authors: Galego Ludovina R. , Rodrigues Maria A. A. , Mendes Débora C. , Jockusch Steffen , Da Silva José P.
Published: July 2016

Rationale

Biogenic polyamines in drinks have been implicated in undesirable physiological effects. Methods for their detection and quantification usually involve derivatization, pre‐concentration and clean‐up. To assist the evaluation of the potential risk of distillates, it was important to develop a simple and fast analytical method, which is described in this study.

Methods

Biogenic polyamines were selectively encapsulated after addition of a nanocontainer, cucurbit[7]uril (50 μM), to the distilled drink samples, which were acidified with HCl (pH 3) prior addition of the nanocontainer. The quantification of polyamines was achieved by direct infusion electrospray ionization quadrupole ion trap mass spectrometry in the multiple reaction monitoring mode, using encapsulated amantadine as internal standard, and by monitoring signals originating from their host‐guest complexes.

Results

Six point calibration curves, ranging from 0.5 μM to 20 μM of polyamines in water and ethanol/water (50:50), were used to establish instrument response. The method was validated by analysis of fortified Arbutus spirits. Samples of Arbutus and grape pomace spirits were also analyzed. Linear responses were observed for all polyamines and were similar in water, hydro‐alcoholic solutions and fortified Arbutus spirits. Putrescine the simple polyamine was detected only in grape pomace distillate samples.

Conclusions

A quantitative method was developed for rapid and simple analysis of biogenic polyamines in distilled drinks. The detection limits depend on the ionization properties of the samples. Encapsulated amantadine can be used to probe these properties and method application. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermodynamics of gaseous barium cerate studied by Knudsen effusion mass spectrometry
Authors: Lopatin Sergey I. , Shugurov Sergey M. , Panin Andrej I.
Published: July 2016

Rationale

BaCeO3 species, which are known to be excellent proton conductors, are potential candidates as electrolytes in hydrogen concentrators and fuel cells. Oxides of barium and cerium, with their reactivity can, in turn, form gaseous associates – complex molecules with two different types of atoms (not including oxygen). To predict the possibility of the existence of gaseous associates formed by barium and cerium oxides it is important to know their thermodynamic characteristics. Until the present investigation, gaseous cerates were unknown.

Methods

High‐temperature Knudsen effusion mass spectrometry was used to determine the partial pressures of vapor species over the BaO–CeO2 system, and the formation enthalpies of gaseous CeO2 and BaCeO3 were derived. Measurements of partial pressures and reaction enthalpies were performed with a MS‐1301 mass spectrometer. Vaporization was carried out using molybdenum and tungsten effusion cells containing the samples under study and pure gold as a reference substance. A theoretical study of gaseous cerium dioxide and barium cerate was performed by several quantum chemical methods: DFT M06, DFT PBE0 and MP2.

Results

In the temperature range 1900–2120 K, CeO and CeO2 were found to be the main vapor species over the solid CeO2. Ba, BaO, CeO, CeO2 and BaCeO3 species were found in the vapor over the BaO–CeO2 mixture. On the basis of the equilibrium constant of the gaseous reaction BaO + CeO2 = BaCeO3, the standard formation enthalpy of gaseous BaCeO3 (−1065 ± 25 kJ/mol) at 298  K was determined. Energetically favorable structures of gaseous CeO2 and BaCeO3 were found and vibrational frequencies were evaluated in the harmonic approximation.

Conclusions

The stability of BaCeO3 gaseous species was confirmed by high‐temperature mass spectrometry. Gas‐phase reactions involving gaseous barium and cerium oxides with gaseous barium cerate were studied. The enthalpies of the formation reactions of gaseous barium cerate from gaseous BaO and CeO2 were evaluated theoretically and the obtained values were in agreement with the experimental ones. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pulmonary Mycobacterium avium infection demonstrating unusual lobar caseous pneumonia
Authors: Okuzumi Shinichi , Minematsu Naoto , Sasaki Mamoru , Ohsawa Kazuma , Murakami Marohito
Published: July 2016

Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infection is a major medical concern in Japan because of its increased prevalence and associated mortality. A common radiological feature in pulmonary MAC infection is a mixture of two basic patterns: fibrocavitary and nodular bronchiectatic; however, lobar consolidation is rare. We report an 83‐year‐old man with lobar caseous pneumonia caused by pulmonary MAC infection. Radiological findings were predominantly composed of dense lobar consolidation and ground‐glass opacity. A diagnosis was made in accordance with the clinical and microbiological criteria set by the American Thoracic Society. A histological examination of lung specimens obtained by using a bronchoscope revealed a caseous granulomatous inflammation with an appearance of Langhans cells. The patient was treated using combined mycobacterium chemotherapy with an initial positive response for 6 months; however, the disease progressed later. We suggest that an awareness of lobar pneumonic consolidation as a rare radiological finding in pulmonary MAC infection is important.
Effects of different modification reagents on functional properties of pearl millet starches
Authors: Shaikh Marium , Ali Tahira Mohsin , Hasnain Abid
Published: July 2016

Pearl millet starch was chemically modified via succinylation, acetylation, octenyl succinylation, and oxidation. The effects of the aforementioned chemical modifications on the functional properties of pearl millet starch were studied. The yield of the starch was approximately 56.3% on a total grain weight basis. Native starch granules ranged from polygonal to spherical in shape as observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results revealed that succinylation increased the swelling power and solubility significantly (p < 0.05). With regard to paste clarity, octenyl succinylated starch (POS) showed the highest value with the least reduction in percentage transmittance (%T) upon cold storage. Acetylation greatly reduced the re‐association tendency of native pearl millet as indicated by the absence of retrogradation peak during thermal analysis. Viscoamylographic analysis revealed that the peak viscosity improved significantly (p < 0.05) after succinylation. Chemically modified starches exhibited better cold‐storage stability in terms of various textural attributes like hardness, chewiness, springiness, and cohesiveness when compared with native starch. The percentage of retrogradation (%R) for POS was 9.87% as compared with 49.11% for unmodified starch.
Collaborative Music‐Making with Digital Audio Workstations: The “nth Member” as a Heuristic Device for Understanding the Role of Technologies in Audio Composition
Authors: Brooker Phillip , Sharrock Wes
Published: July 2016

This article examines amateur music‐making using a digital audio workstation, showing how audio and software are used as resources for creating compositions. The article has two aims. Firstly, to depict how digital music‐making is formed from routine interactional techniques. Secondly, to probe how researchers might account for such multi‐modal activity through a heuristic device: the “nth member.” Whereas sociology has typically been concerned with the cultural facets of how music is made and consumed, we explore the material practices of collaborative song creation utilizing conversation analytic techniques—“turn‐taking” and “next‐selection”—to capture two key interactional moments.