bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elucidating the 2D Magnetic Topology of the ‘Metal–Radical’ TTTA⋅Cu(hfac)2 System
Authors: Vela Sergi , Sopena Arturo , Ribas‐Arino Jordi , Novoa Juan J. , Deumal Mercè
Published: May 2014

The TTTA⋅Cu(hfac)2 polymer (1; in which TTTA=1,3,5‐trithia‐2,4,6‐triazapentalenyl, and hfac=(1,1,1,5,5,5)‐hexafluoroacetylacetonate) is one of the most prominent examples of the rational use of the ‘metal–radical’ synthetic approach to achieve ferromagnetic interactions. Experimentally, the magnetic topology of 1 could not be fully deciphered. Herein, the first‐principles bottom‐up procedure was applied to elucidate the nature and strength of the magnetic JAB exchange interactions present in 1. The computed JAB values give rise to a 2D magnetic topology of ferromagnetic dimers (+11.9 cm−1) coupled through weaker antiferromagnetic interactions (−3.0 and −3.2 cm−1) in two different spatial directions. The hitherto unknown origin of the antiferromagnetic interdimer interactions is thus unveiled. By using the 2D magnetic topology, the agreement between calculated and experimental χT(T) data is extraordinary. In the metal–radical TTTA⋅Cu(hfac)2 compound, the computational model transcends the local dimer cluster model owing to strong interactions between metal centers and organic radicals, thereby creating a de facto biradical. In addition, it is shown that the magnetic topology cannot be inferred from the polymeric [TTTA⋅⋅⋅Cu(hfac)2]n crystal motif, that is, from its chemical coordination pattern. Instead, one should think in terms of magnetic building blocks, namely, the de facto biradicals.
Nanocomposite Incorporating V2O5 Nanowires and Gold Nanoparticles for Mimicking an Enzyme Cascade Reaction and Its Application in the Detection of Biomolecules
Authors: Qu Konggang , Shi Peng , Ren Jinsong , Qu Xiaogang
Published: May 2014

Artificial enzyme mimics are a current research interest, and many nanomaterials have been found to display enzyme‐mimicking activity. However, to the best of our knowledge, there have not hitherto been any reports on the use of pure nanomaterials to construct a system capable of mimicking an enzyme cascade reaction. Herein, we describe the construction of a novel nanocomposite consisting of V2O5 nanowires and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) through a simple and facile chemical method, in which V2O5 and AuNPs possess intrinsic peroxidase and glucose oxidase (GOx)‐like activity, respectively. Results suggest that this material can mimic the enzyme cascade reaction of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and GOx. Based on this mechanism, a direct and selective colorimetric method for the detection of glucose has been successfully designed. Because single‐strand and double‐strand DNA (ssDNA and dsDNA) have different deactivating effects on the GOx‐like activity of AuNPs, the sensing of target complementary DNA can also be realized and disease‐associated single‐nucleotide polymorphism of DNA can be easily distinguished. Our study opens a new avenue for the use of nanomaterials in enzyme mimetics, and holds promise for the further exploration of nanomaterials in creating alternative catalytic systems to natural enzymes.
The Nucleophilicity of the Oxygen Functional Groups on Carbon Materials: A DFT Analysis
Authors: Li Bo , Su DangSheng
Published: May 2014

The nucleophilicity of the five different oxygen functional groups (carboxyl, diketone, ketone, lactone, and quinone) on the graphene are evaluated by DFT calculations. Two different methods are employed to obtain three different reactivity descriptors, namely, sk−, wk−, and sk−/sk+. The calculations indicate that the quinone group is the most nucleophilic site among the investigated ones. The diketone and ketone are much less active than the quinone group toward an electrophilic attack. This judgment is further supported by Ag+‐binding calculations, which mimics an electrophilic attack. In addition, the carboxyl and lactone groups at a zigzag‐terminated edge show nucleophilic ability that is comparable to that of diketones. The current work lays the basis for future studies on the redox property of carbon catalysis and its implications in catalytic reactions.
Defects in Surface Chemistry—Reductive coupling of Benzaldehyde on Rutile TiO2(110)
Authors: Clawin Peter M. , Friend Cynthia M. , Al‐Shamery Katharina
Published: May 2014

The surface chemistry of oxygen and oxygenates on Rutile TiO2(110) is of great interest for various applications such as heterogeneous catalysis and photo catalysis. Though it is generally accepted that surface defects are active sites, the role of subsurface defects is under debate. We have therefore investigated the influence of the bulk defect density on the reductive coupling of benzaldehyde to stilbene as a model system. Using IRRAS we identify stilbene diolate as a reduction intermediate. The concentration of this intermediate is proportional to the bulk defect density, whereas adsorption of benzaldehyde at lower temperatures is not affected, which indicates a dominant role of Ti interstitials at temperatures above 400 K.
A Study on the Growth of Cr2O3 in Ordered Mesoporous Silica and Its Replication
Authors: Grewe Tobias , Deng Xiaohui , Tüysüz Harun
Published: May 2014

A systematic study on the growth of Cr2O3 in three‐dimensional cubic ordered mesoporous silica (KIT‐6) and its replication through nanocasting is reported. By changing the loading time and amount of precursor, the size and shape of the obtained replica could be controlled to some extent. More interestingly, in contrast to previously published studies, when KIT‐6 with an aging temperature of 100 °C, which has a high degree of interconnectivity, was used as a hard template, a cubic ordered mesoporous Cr2O3 replica with an open uncoupled subframework structure and reduced symmetry was obtained. Formation of a replica with different symmetry and uncoupled subframework structure is not only related to the degree of interconnectivity of the parent, but also strongly depends on the type of metal oxide and its growth mechanism in the silica template. Nanocasting of Cr2O3 with a low loading results in a replica with monomodal pore size distribution that has same symmetry as the hard template, whereas increasing the loading amount alters the symmetry of the replica and yields a replica with bimodal distribution.
Approximation to the moments of ratios of cumulative sums
Authors: Shi Xiaoping , Reid Nancy , Wu Yuehua
Published: May 2014

We propose an approximation to the mean of the ratio of cumulative sums of a sequence of independently distributed nonnegative random variables. Both leading term and higher‐order saddlepoint approximations are presented, and the results are applied to a vector ratio approximation, change‐point analysis, and kernel regression. The Canadian Journal of Statistics 42: 325–336; 2014 © 2014 Statistical Society of Canada
Estimating a treatment effect under uncertainty with application to a high‐speed railway system
Authors: Miyawaki Koji
Published: May 2014

This article proposes new treatment effect models and applies them to analyse the effect of high‐speed railways on population density. These models focus on the difference in treatment intensity across treated observations. The difference in treatment intensity occurs as a result of uncertainty over whether the treatment will be properly administered to observations. When evaluating large infrastructure, such as high‐speed railways, the introduction of infrastructure is considered as the treatment for municipalities. The treatment in such cases usually takes time and poses uncertainty whether it will be complete or not. To address such uncertainty, we extend the Roy model—a typical treatment effect model—under a reasonable assumption to enable it to incorporate observations that are treated but their treatment is not complete. Further, we allow the correlation between how these observations are determined and their outcomes and treatment assignments. This article also discusses the identification problem with respect to estimating model parameters. The proposed statistical models are applied to evaluate the effect of the Shinkansen, a high‐speed railway in Japan, on population density. The Canadian Journal of Statistics 42: 337–358; 2014 © 2014 Statistical Society of Canada
Function points‐based resource prediction in cloud computing
Authors: Sood Sandeep K.
Published: May 2014

As a result of varying demands of computing resources by the users on cloud, resource provisioning in cloud computing has come out as a prominent topic of research. Many researchers have focused exclusively on the technical and security aspects of cloud computing, thereby neglecting the efficient provisioning of resources and the necessity of cloud services to be cost effective. Cloud consists of a large number of resources that are allocated to cloud customer's on‐demand. As demands cannot be static and constantly change with time, cloud service providers cannot adopt static provisioning of resources as there are chances of over‐provisioning or under‐provisioning. Therefore, to achieve efficient resource utilization, an optimized strategy that can deploy virtual machines on different physical machines according to resource requirements is the current need of cloud computing. That is, there must be a mechanism by which the total number of active physical nodes can be dynamically changed corresponding to their resource usage rate, thereby providing the efficient utilization of resources. In this paper, a linear regression‐based prediction model is proposed to predict the resource usage based on the number of function points computed from the users' requests. Thereafter, the artificial neural network is also used to predict the future resource requirements more accurately. The predicted resource usage results are used by a resource pool manager to manage the resources and allocate them to the users. The resource pool manager also uses an efficient load‐balancing algorithm to balance the load on each cloud service provider as well as to optimize cloud usage cost. With the help of this prediction model, the decision to allocate or release a virtual machine can be made proactively, thus making the cloud effective in terms of both cost and performance. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
UPLC‐MS/MS determination of ephedrine, methylephedrine, amygdalin and glycyrrhizic acid in Beagle plasma and its application to a pharmacokinetic study after oral administration of Ma Huang Tang
Authors: Yan Tianhua , Fu Qiang , Wang Jing , Ma Shiping
Published: May 2014

An ultra performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometric (UPLC‐MS) method was developed to investigate the pharmacokinetic properties of ephedrine, methylephedrine, amygdalin, and glycyrrhizic acid after oral gavage of Ma Huang Tang (MHT) in Beagles. Beagle plasma samples were pretreated using liquid‐liquid extraction, and chromatographic separation was performed on a C18 column using a linear gradient of water‐formic acid mixture (0.1%). The pharmacokinetic parameters of ephedrine, methylephedrine, amygdalin, and glycyrrhizic acid from MHT in Beagles were quantitatively determined by UPLC with tandem mass detector. The qualitative detection of the four compounds was accomplished by selected ion monitoring in negative/positive ion modes electrospray ionization‐mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS). Detection was based on multiple reaction monitoring with the precursor‐to‐product ion transitions m/z 166.096–116.983 (ephedrine), m/z 179.034–146.087 (methylephedrine), m/z 456.351–323.074 (amygdalin), and m/z 821.606–351.062 (glycyrrhizic acid). The selectivity, sensitivity, linearity, accuracy, precision, extraction recovery, ion suppression, and stability were within the acceptable ranges. The method described was successfully applied to reveal the pharmacokinetic properties of ephedrine, methylephedrine, amygdalin, and glycyrrhizic acid after oral gavage of MHT in Beagles. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
What are the benefits of parental care? The importance of parental effects on developmental rate
Authors: Klug Hope , Bonsall Michael B.
Published: May 2014

The evolution of parental care is beneficial if it facilitates offspring performance traits that are ultimately tied to offspring fitness. While this may seem self‐evident, the benefits of parental care have received relatively little theoretical exploration. Here, we develop a theoretical model that elucidates how parental care can affect offspring performance and which aspects of offspring performance (e.g., survival, development) are likely to be influenced by care. We begin by summarizing four general types of parental care benefits. Care can be beneficial if parents (1) increase offspring survival during the stage in which parents and offspring are associated, (2) improve offspring quality in a way that leads to increased offspring survival and/or reproduction in the future when parents are no longer associated with offspring, and/or (3) directly increase offspring reproductive success when parents and offspring remain associated into adulthood. We additionally suggest that parental control over offspring developmental rate might represent a substantial, yet underappreciated, benefit of care. We hypothesize that parents adjust the amount of time offspring spend in life‐history stages in response to expected offspring mortality, which in turn might increase overall offspring survival, and ultimately, fitness of parents and offspring. Using a theoretical evolutionary framework, we show that parental control over offspring developmental rate can represent a significant, or even the sole, benefit of care. Considering this benefit influences our general understanding of the evolution of care, as parental control over offspring developmental rate can increase the range of life‐history conditions (e.g., egg and juvenile mortalities) under which care can evolve.
Improvement of Transient Stability and Short‐Term Voltage Stability by Rapid Control of Batteries on EHV Network in Power Systems
Authors: Kawabe Kenichi , Yokoyama Akihiko
Published: May 2014

This research aims at development of new emergency control schemes using FACTS (flexible ac transmission systems) devices and BESS (battery energy storage systems) for prevention of cascading outages in bulk power systems. In this paper, the use of BESS is studied for the improvement of short‐term voltage stability from the viewpoint of voltage control. Based on the stabilizing control method proposed in our previous research to improve transient stability, a new control scheme is developed taking into account the finding that short‐term voltage stability is closely related to angle stability. An additional control system that limits active and reactive power absorption from the grid is applied to the stabilizing control system since the electrical power absorption drops the system voltages. Numerical simulations are conducted on two test systems with BESS to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method for the improvement of both transient stability and short‐term voltage stability in severe fault cases such as a grounding fault and a generator trip. The results show the high potential of BESS for stability enhancement.
Analysis of Eddy‐Current Losses in Solid Iron Under dc‐Biased Magnetization Considering Minor Hysteresis Loops
Authors: Shima Kazuo , Fukami Tadashi , Miyata Kenji , Lee Chahn , Furukawa Yoko
Published: May 2014

In designing solid‐pole synchronous machines, it is important to take into account the surface eddy‐current losses in the field pole cores. In this study, a solid‐iron ring specimen is adopted as an approximate model of solid‐pole surfaces in order to conduct a fundamental study of the surface losses. The influence of the minor hysteresis loops on the losses under dc‐biased magnetization is investigated. The losses in the ring under dc‐biased magnetization are measured and analyzed by finite element analysis (FEA). The losses computed by the FEA considering minor loops are nearly the same as those measured. In contrast, the eddy‐current losses computed by FEA without considering minor loops are considerably inaccurate because the incremental permeability is overestimated and the skin depth is underestimated. It is important to consider hysteresis for the accurate calculation of the surface eddy‐current losses under dc‐biased magnetization.
Vaccinia‐based influenza vaccine overcomes previously induced immunodominance hierarchy for heterosubtypic protection
Authors: Kwon Ji‐Sun , Yoon Jungsoon , Kim Yeon‐Jung , Kang Kyuho , Woo Sunje , Jung Dea‐Im , Song Man Ki , Kim Eun‐Ha , Kwon Hyeok‐il , Choi Young Ki , Kim Jihye , Lee Jeewon , Yoon Yeup , Shin Eui‐Cheol , Youn Jin‐Won
Published: May 2014

Growing concerns about unpredictable influenza pandemics require a broadly protective vaccine against diverse influenza strains. One of the promising approaches was a T cell‐based vaccine, but the narrow breadth of T‐cell immunity due to the immunodominance hierarchy established by previous influenza infection and efficacy against only mild challenge condition are important hurdles to overcome. To model T‐cell immunodominance hierarchy in humans in an experimental setting, influenza‐primed C57BL/6 mice were chosen and boosted with a mixture of vaccinia recombinants, individually expressing consensus sequences from avian, swine, and human isolates of influenza internal proteins. As determined by IFN‐γ ELISPOT and polyfunctional cytokine secretion, the vaccinia recombinants of influenza expanded the breadth of T‐cell responses to include subdominant and even minor epitopes. Vaccine groups were successfully protected against 100 LD50 challenges with PR/8/34 and highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1, which contained the identical dominant NP366 epitope. Interestingly, in challenge with pandemic A/Cal/04/2009 containing mutations in the dominant epitope, only the group vaccinated with rVV‐NP + PA showed improved protection. Taken together, a vaccinia‐based influenza vaccine expressing conserved internal proteins improved the breadth of influenza‐specific T‐cell immunity and provided heterosubtypic protection against immunologically close as well as distant influenza strains.
Suzuki–Miyaura Coupling of Aryl Sulfonates with Arylboronic Acids Using a Morpholine–Pd(OAc)2 Catalyst System
Authors: Abe Taichi , Mino Takashi , Watanabe Kohei , Yagishita Fumitoshi , Sakamoto Masami
Published: May 2014

We report a new catalyst system, a morpholine–Pd(OAc)2 complex, for Suzuki–Miyaura coupling of aryl tosylates or mesylates with arylboronic acids to give biaryl compounds. The morpholine–Pd(OAc)2 catalyst system is proposed to be a precursor of the catalytically active species in the coupling reaction. Aryl chlorides and aryl triflates can also be used in this coupling reaction. Altogether, 22 biaryl compounds were obtained using this catalyst system.
Concise Preparation of Optically Active Heteroaryl α‐(Hydroxyamino) Esters
Authors: Murat‐Onana Marie Laure , Berini Christophe , Denis Jean‐Noël , Poisson Jean‐François , Minassian Frédéric , Pelloux‐Léon Nadia
Published: May 2014

A practical sequence for the synthesis of optically active heteroaryl α‐(hydroxyamino) esters was explored. The highly diastereoselective addition of heteroaromatics to a cyclic chiral nitrone allowed access to a series of heteroaryl hydroxylamines. The scope of this reaction was evaluated on substrates possessing a pyrrole, an indole, or a furan core. The three‐step sequence afforded the α‐(hydroxyamino) esters in good overall yields (36–62 %) with good enantiomeric excess values (76 to ≥98 %).
Monocyte‐derived dendritic cells identified as booster of T follicular helper cell differentiation
Authors: Fillatreau Simon
Published: May 2014

Adjuvants play an essential role in the induction of acquired immunity upon vaccination with protein antigen. In this issue of EMBO Molecular Medicine, a classical type of adjuvant made of DNA oligonucleotide containing CpG motifs, which has already been used in humans, is shown to boost humoral immunity primarily by acting on monocyte‐derived dendritic cells. This study provides novel insight on the mode of action of adjuvant targeting Toll‐like receptors.
Impact of tetrahedralization on parallel conforming octree mesh generation
Authors: Ghisi Igor T. , Camata Jose J. , Coutinho Alvaro L. G. A.
Published: May 2014

This work discusses the performance impact from the tetrahedralization of non‐conforming meshes generated by a parallel octree method capable of handling arbitrary immersed geometries. First, we review conforming techniques for meshes created from octrees. Then we implement a tetrahedralization scheme based on templates in a parallel meshing algorithm that uses a linear octree with 2:1 balancing constraint. Besides, we also propose a change on the partitioning strategy for the same meshing algorithm to improve the octree refinement load balancing. Scalability analyses show that the chosen tetrahedralization technique preserves algorithm performance. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spaces, Rights and Resources
Authors: Baumgart Sabine , Kreibich Volker
Published: May 2014

From city to megacity: Dhaka in Bangladesh is an example of how people living in peripheral settlements strive to secure their survival. But this “informal urbanisation” presents urban planners with enormous challenges.
Biomedical coatings on polyethylene terephthalate artificial ligaments
Authors: Li Hong , Chen Shiyi
Published: May 2014

This review comprehensively covers research conducted to enhance polyethylene terephthalate (PET) artificial ligament osseointegration in the bone tunnel. These strategies, using biocompatible or bioactive coatings, had a positive effect in promoting PET ligament osseointegration by increasing bone formation and decreasing fibrous scar tissue at the ligament‐to‐bone interface. The improved osseointegration can be translated into a significant increase in the biomechanical pull‐out loads. However, the load‐to‐failure of coated ligament is far lower than that of native ACL. Coatings to promote intra‐articular ligamentization are also discussed in this study. Collectively, our investigations may arouse further study of the biological coating of PET artificial ligaments in order to effectively enhance ligament osseointegration and promote artificial ligament ligamentization. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 103A: 839–845, 2015.
Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor 4α (HNF4α) in Coordination With Retinoic Acid Receptors Increases all‐trans‐Retinoic Acid‐Dependent CYP26A1 Gene Expression in HepG2 Human Hepatocytes
Authors: Zolfaghari Reza , Ross A. Catharine
Published: May 2014

CYP26A1 expression is very highly induced by retinoic acid (RA) in the liver, compared to most other tissues, suggesting that a liver‐enriched factor may be required for its physiological transcriptional response. HNF4α is a highly conserved liver‐specific/enriched member of nuclear receptor superfamily. In this study, we hypothesized that HNF4α and RARs may cooperate in an RA‐dependent manner to induce a high level of CYP26A1 expression in liver cells. Partial inhibition of endogenous HNF4α by siRNA reduced the level of RA‐induced CYP26A1 mRNA in HepG2 cells. Cotransfection of HNF4α, with or without RARs, demonstrated RA‐dependent activation of a human CYP26A1 promoter‐luciferase construct. Analysis of a 2.5‐kbp putative CYP26A1 promoter sequence identified five potential HNF4α DNA response elements: H1 located in a proximal region overlapping with an RAR element‐1 (RARE1 or R1); H2 and H3 in the distal region, close to RARE2 (R2) and RARE3 (R3); and H4 and H5 in intermediary regions. In EMSA and ChIP analyses HNF4α and RARs binding in the proximal and distal CYP26A1 promoter regions was significantly higher in RA‐treated cells. Mutational analysis of the individual HNF4α DNA‐response elements identified H1 as the major site for HNF4α binding because mutation of H1 inhibited the promoter activity by ~90%, followed by H2 mutation with less than 40% inhibition. Our results indicate that HNF4α coordinates with RARs in an RA‐dependent manner to strongly induce CYP26A1 gene expression in the liver, which may explain the high level of response to RA observed in vivo. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 1740–1751, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Preserving Neural Retina Through Re‐Emerging Herbal Interventions
Authors: Anand Akshay , Modgil Shweta , Sharma Vijay Lakshmi , Shri Richa , Kaushik Sushmita
Published: May 2014

Eye related diseases such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, cataract, conjunctivitis are very common worldwide. With the current scenario India will be among the top five countries in the number of glaucoma cases. Limited discovery of successful drugs for the treatment of such diseases led scientists to look towards the use of conventional sources for treatment. Herbal extracts from Ayurveda have remained an important part of treatment regime in many parts of world even today. For this reason, local herbs possessing curative properties are still being used by local inhabitants due to its anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Because retinal damage involves alterations in oxidative enzymes, blood flow changes and increase in apoptotic signals, herbal extracts are being tested for their ability to moderate antioxidant machinery and trigger neuroprotective pathways. The present review summarizes some of such herbal extracts which have been tested for their neuroprotective role in eye related diseases. The active components that exert neuroprotective effects have also been discussed along with possible mechanisms of action. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 1659–1668, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Identification and Characterization of MicroRNAs in the Spleen of Common Carp Immune Organ
Authors: Li Guoxi , Zhao Yinli , Wen Lin , Liu Zhonghu , Yan Fengbin , Gao Chunsheng
Published: May 2014

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in the regulation of many fundamental biological processes in eukaryotes; however, miRNAs associated with immune functions in the common carp have not been reported. In this study, a small‐RNA cDNA library was constructed from the spleen of the common carp. A total of 10,603,456 high‐quality clean reads, representing 293,603 unique sequences, were obtained from the small‐cDNA library using the Solexa sequencing. By the bioinformatic analysis, 194 conserved miRNAs and 12 novel miRNAs were identified in the carp spleen. The abundant miRNAs principally belong to 30 miRNA gene families such as let‐7, mir‐10, mir‐15, mir‐30, and so on. The conservation analysis showed that 23 families were present both in protostomes and deuterostomes, 46 families were conserved only in vertebrates, and 5 families (mir‐430, mir‐722, mir‐724, mir‐734, and mir‐738) were identified only in fish species. Furthermore, GO enrichment analysis and KEGG pathway analysis suggested that miRNAs expressed in the spleen of common carp are involved in immune system development, lymphoid organ development, lymphocyte activation, immune response, B cell receptor signaling pathway, T cell receptor signaling pathway, Fc gamma R‐mediated phagocytosis, Toll‐like receptor signaling pathway, and so on. This study described the miRNA transcriptome in spleen tissue for the first time in the common carp. The results expand the number of known common carp miRNAs and provides a meaningful framework to understand the common carp immune system and defense mechanisms. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 1768–1778, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Short‐Term Hypoxia Enhances the Migratory Capability of Dendritic Cell Through HIF‐1α and PI3K/Akt Pathway
Authors: Filippi Irene , Morena Emilia , Aldinucci Carlo , Carraro Fabio , Sozzani Silvano , Naldini Antonella
Published: May 2014

Hypoxia represents an inadequate oxygen supply to tissues, which can modulate cell functions, primarily through the hypoxia‐inducible transcription factor HIF‐1α. Dendritic cells (DC) are professional antigen‐presenting cells and their migration maybe affected by hypoxia, since the local microenvironment in lymphoid organs, as well as in inflamed and tumor tissues, is characterized by low oxygen tensions. In this study we observed an enhanced migratory capability of human monocyte‐derived DC, using in vitro migration assays performed under hypoxic conditions. Such enhancement was independent on either the chemoattractants involved or the maturation level of DC. However, HIF‐1α appeared to be crucial for the migration only of immature DC and not for mature DC under hypoxia, as indicated by HIF‐1α siRNA approaches. Furthermore, we observed that while Akt phosphorylation was enhanced in both immature and mature DC exposed to hypoxia, other signaling pathways, such as p38 and p42/p44 MAPK, were differently affected during hypoxic treatment. More interestingly, aspecific and specific inhibition of PI3K/Akt indicated that such pathway was relevant for the migration of both immature and matured DC under hypoxia, even when DC were transfected with HIF‐1α siRNA. Our results indicate that, besides HIF‐1α, several other pathways, including PI3K/Akt, may be involved in the response to hypoxia of immature and, more specifically, of mature DC to sustain their trafficking and functions within hypoxic microenvironments. J. Cell. Physiol. 229: 2067–2076, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High Insulin‐Induced Down‐Regulation of Erk‐1/IGF‐1R/FGFR‐1 Signaling Is Required for Oxidative Stress‐Mediated Apoptosis of Adipose‐Derived Stem Cells
Authors: Scioli Maria Giovanna , Cervelli Valerio , Arcuri Gaetano , Gentile Pietro , Doldo Elena , Bielli Alessandra , Bonanno Elena , Orlandi Augusto
Published: May 2014

Homeostasis of adipose tissue requires highly coordinated response between circulating factors and cell population. Human adult adipose‐derived stem cells (ASCs) display multiple differentiation properties and are sensitive to insulin stimulation. Insulin resistance and high level of circulating insulin characterize patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity. At physiological concentration, insulin promoted proliferation and survival of ASCs in vitro, whereas high insulin level induced their dose‐dependent proliferative arrest and apoptosis. Insulin‐induced apoptotic commitment depended on the down‐regulation of Erk‐1, insulin growth factor‐1 receptor (IGF‐1R), and fibroblast growth factor receptor‐1 (FGFR‐1)‐mediated signaling. Specific inhibition of Erk‐1/2, IGF‐1R, and FGFR activity promoted ASC apoptosis but did not increase insulin effects, whereas EGFR and ErbB2 inhibition potentiated insulin‐induced apoptosis. FGFRs and EGFR inhibition reduced ASC adipogenic differentiation, whereas Erk‐1/2 and IGF‐1R inhibition was ineffective. Insulin‐induced apoptosis associated to reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and inhibition of NADPH oxidase 4 (Nox4) activity prevented ASC apoptosis. Moreover, specific inhibition of Erk‐1/2, IGF‐1R, and FGFR‐1 activity promoted ROS generation and this effect was not cumulative with that of insulin alone. Our data indicate that insulin concentration is a critical regulatory switch between proliferation and survival of ASCs. High insulin level‐induced apoptotic machinery involves Nox4‐generated oxidative stress and the down‐regulation of a complex receptor signaling, partially distinct from that influencing adipogenic differentiation of ASCs. J. Cell. Physiol. 229: 2077–2087, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hydrogen peroxide staining to visualize intracellular bacterial infections of seedling root cells
Authors: White James F. , Torres Mónica S. , Somu Mohini P. , Johnson Holly , Irizarry Ivelisse , Chen Qiang , Zhang Ning , Walsh Emily , Tadych Mariusz , Bergen Marshall
Published: May 2014

Visualization of bacteria in living plant cells and tissues is often problematic due to lack of stains that pass through living plant cell membranes and selectively stain bacterial cells. In this article, we report the use of 3,3′‐diaminobenzidine tetrachloride (DAB) to stain hydrogen peroxide associated with bacterial invasion of eukaryotic cells. Tissues were counterstained with aniline blue/lactophenol to stain protein in bacterial cells. Using this staining method to visualize intracellular bacterial (Burkholderia gladioli) colonization of seedling roots of switch grass (Panicum virgatum), we compared bacterial free seedling roots and those inoculated with the bacterium. To further assess application of the technique in multiple species of vascular plants, we examined vascular plants for seedling root colonization by naturally occurring seed‐transmitted bacteria. Colonization by bacteria was only observed to occur within epidermal (including root hairs) and cortical cells of root tissues, suggesting that bacteria may not be penetrating deeply into root tissues. DAB/peroxidase with counter stain aniline blue/lactophenol was effective in penetration of root cells to selectively stain bacteria. Furthermore, this stain combination permitted the visualization of the bacterial lysis process. Before any evidence of H2O2 staining, intracellular bacteria were seen to stain blue for protein content with aniline blue/lactophenol. After H2O2 staining became evident, bacteria were often swollen, without internal staining by aniline blue/lactophenol; this suggests loss of protein content. This staining method was effective for seedling root tissues; however, it was not effective at staining bacteria in shoot tissues due to poor penetration. Microsc. Res. Tech. 77:566–573, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Assessment of green cleaning effectiveness on polychrome surfaces byMALDI‐TOFmass spectrometry and microscopic imaging
Authors: Hrdlickova Kuckova Stepanka , Crhova Krizkova Michaela , Pereira Catarina Luísa Cortes , Hynek Radovan , Lavrova Olga , Busani Tito , Branco Luis Cobra , Sandu Irina Crina Anca
Published: May 2014

This article proposes an innovative methodology which employs nondestructive techniques to assess the effectiveness of new formulations based on ionic liquids, as alternative solvents for enzymes (proteases), for the removal of proteinaceous materials from painted surfaces during restoration treatments. Ionic liquids (ILs), also known as “designer” solvents, because of their peculiar properties which can be adjusted by selecting different cation‐anion combinations, are potentially green solvents due totheir low vapour pressure. In this study, two ionic liquids were selected: IL1 (1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([BMIM][BF4])) and IL2 (1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium ethylsulphate ([EMIM][EtSO4])). New formulations were prepared with these ILs and two different proteases (E): one acid (E1—pepsin) and one alkaline (E2—obtained fromAspergillus sojae). These formulations were tested on tempera and oil mock‐up samples, prepared in accordance with historically documented recipes, and covered with two different types of protein‐based varnishes (egg white and isinglass—fish glue). A noninvasive multiscale imaging methodology was applied before and after the treatment to evaluate the cleaning's effectiveness. Different microscopic techniques—optical microscopy (OM) with visible and fluorescent light, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM)—together with Matrix‐Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization—Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS) were applied on areas cleaned with the new formulations (IL + E) and reference areas cleaned only with the commercial enzyme formulations (gels). MALDI‐TOF proved particularly very useful for comparing the diversity and abundance of peptides released by using different enzymatic systems.Microsc. Res. Tech. 77:574–585, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Partial Degree Conditions and Cycle Coverings
Authors: Wang Hong
Published: May 2014

Let G be a graph of order n. Let W be a subset of with , where k is a positive integer. We show that if for each , then G contains k vertex‐disjoint cycles covering W such that each of the k cycles contains at least three vertices of W.
Portal vein embolization using absolute ethanol: evaluation of its safety and efficacy
Authors: Igami Tsuyoshi , Ebata Tomoki , Yokoyama Yukihiro , Sugawara Gen , Takahashi Yu , Nagino Masato
Published: May 2014

Background

Previously, we reported on the clinical efficacy and safety of portal vein embolization (PVE) with fibrin glue. Our embolic materials for PVE changed from fibrin glue to absolute ethanol (EOH) after 2001 due to prohibition of using fibrin glue for PVE. With introducing our technique of PVE with EOH, we evaluated its safety and efficacy with attention to the amount of EOH.

Methods

The medical records of 154 patients who underwent PVE using EOH were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Changes with time in both the serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) after PVE returned to the initial condition within 7 days after PVE. In the 96 patients who underwent CT volumerty 14 to 21 days after PVE, the volume of the embolized lobe decreased from 701 ± 165 cm3 to 549 ± 148 cm3 (P < 0.0001). Meanwhile, the volume of the non‐embolized lobe increased from 388 ± 105 cm3 to 481 ± 113 cm3 (P < 0.0001). On simple linear regression, the amount of EOH was positively correlated with both the maximum of AST and that of ALT after PVE; however, it never correlated with changes in liver volume after PVE.

Conclusions

Portal vein embolization with EOH has a substantial effect on both hypertrophy of the non‐embolized lobe and atrophy of the embolized lobe. Quick recoveries of changes with time in AST and ALT after PVE proved that PVE with EOH is a safe procedure. The amount of EOH affected the extent of liver damage but had no clinical effects on changes in liver volume after PVE.
(3+2) Annulation of Amidinothioureas with Binucleophile: Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of 3‐Phenylamino‐5‐aryl/alkyl‐1,2,4‐oxadiazole Derivatives
Authors: Yerande Swapnil G. , Ghaisas Amruta B. , Newase Kiran M. , Wang Wei , Wang Kan , Dömling Alexander
Published: May 2014

Herein, we report an efficient method for preparation of 3‐phenylamino‐5‐aryl/alkyl‐1,2,4‐oxadiazole by (3+2) annulation of amidinothioureas with binucleophilic hydroxylamine hydrochloride in the presence of mercury (II) chloride. Desired 3‐phenylamino‐5‐aryl/alkyl‐1,2,4‐oxadiazole was prepared in good to moderate yields. On the basis of the literature precedence, the mechanism for the formation of 3‐phenylamino‐5‐aryl/alkyl‐1,2,4‐oxadiazole is proposed. The synthesized compounds were tested for their antimicrobial activity and showed promising inhibition of Gram‐positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus) and fungi (Candida albicans).
Mercury(II) Chloride‐Mediated Desulphurization of Amidinothioureas: Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of 3‐Amino‐1,2,4‐triazole Derivatives
Authors: Yerande Swapnil G. , Baviskar Chetna D. , Newase Kiran M. , Wang Wei , Wang Kan , Dömling Alexander
Published: May 2014

The synthesis of 3‐amino‐1,2,4‐triazole via mercury(II) chloride‐mediated cyclization of amidinothiourea is described. This procedure offers a general and efficient route to synthesize the title compound by 3 + 2 annulation reaction. On the basis of the literature precedence, the mechanism for the formation of 3‐amino‐1,2,4‐triazole is proposed. When the synthesized compounds were tested for their antimicrobial activity showed promising inhibition against tested microbes.
Friedel–Crafts Alkylation of N‐(2‐Chloropropionyl)aniline and the Generation Mechanism of Byproducts
Authors: Tian Jun , Li Lei , Yan Xilong , Chen Ligong
Published: May 2014

The cyclization of N‐(2‐chloropropionyl)aniline to 3‐methylindolin‐2‐one through Friedel–Crafts alkylation was studied. It was found that N‐phenylacrylamide (12.6%) and 3,4‐dihydro‐2(1H)‐quinolinone (1.5%) as main byproducts were obtained. On the basis of the mechanism of Friedel–Crafts alkylation, the generation mechanisms of these two compounds were proposed.
Effects of UV exclusion on the physiology and phenolic composition of leaves and berries of Vitis vinifera cv. Graciano
Authors: Del‐Castillo‐Alonso María‐Ángeles , Diago María P , Monforte Laura , Tardaguila Javier , Martínez‐Abaigar Javier , Núñez‐Olivera Encarnación
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation induces adaptive responses that can be used for plant production improvement. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of solar UV exclusion on the physiology and phenolic compounds of leaves and berry skins of Vitis vinifera L. cv. Graciano under field conditions. Phenolic compounds were analyzed globally and individually in both the vacuolar fraction and, for the first time in grapevine, the cell wall‐bound fraction. These different locations may represent diverse modalities of phenolic response to and protection against UV.

RESULTS

UV exclusion led to a decrease in Fv/Fm in leaves, revealing that solar UV is needed for adequate photoprotection. Only p‐caffeoyl‐tartaric acid from the soluble fraction of leaves and myricetin‐3‐O‐glucoside from the soluble fraction of berry skins were significantly higher in the presence of UV radiation, and thus they could play a role in UV protection. Other hydroxycinnamic acids, flavonols, flavanols and stilbenes did not respond to UV exclusion.

CONCLUSION

UV exclusion led to subtle changes in leaves and berry skins of Graciano cultivar, which would be well adapted to current UV levels. This may help support decision‐making on viticultural practices modifying UV exposure of leaves and berries, which could improve grape and wine quality. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Prospective Trajectories of Posttraumatic Stress in College Women Following a Campus Mass Shooting
Authors: Orcutt Holly K. , Bonanno George A. , Hannan Susan M. , Miron Lynsey R.
Published: May 2014

In a sample with known levels of preshooting posttraumatic stress (PTS) symptoms, we examined the impact of a campus mass shooting on trajectories of PTS in the 31 months following the shooting using latent growth mixture modeling. Female students completed 7 waves of a longitudinal study (sample sizes ranged from 812 to 559). We identified 4 distinct trajectories (n = 660): (a) minimal impact‐resilience (60.9%), (b) high impact‐recovery (29.1%), (c) moderate impact‐moderate symptoms (8.2%), and (d) chronic dysfunction (1.8%). Individuals in each trajectory class remained at or returned to preshooting levels of PTS approximately 6 months postshooting. The minimal impact‐resilience class reported less prior trauma exposure (η2 = .13), less shooting exposure (η2 = .07), and greater emotion regulation skills than all other classes (η2 > .30). The chronic dysfunction class endorsed higher rates of experiential avoidance prior to the shooting than the minimal‐impact resilient and high impact‐recovery classes (η2 = .15), as well as greater shooting exposure than the high impact‐recovery class (η2 = .07). Findings suggest that preshooting functioning and emotion regulation distinguish between those who experience prolonged distress following mass violence and those who gradually recover.
Vocal cord abnormalities in children with velopharyngeal valving problems
Authors: McWilliams Betty Jane , Lavorato Alfred S. , Bluestone Charles D.
Published: May 2014

Twenty‐seven subjects with borderline velopharyngeal valving mechanisms diagnosed as having hoarseness with or without vocal cord pathology participated in a follow‐up study. The mean age of the subjects was 13 years, two months, and they were recalled an average of 4.7 years following initial study.

The reassessment protocol included an evaluation of speech, velopharyngeal valving, behavioral and health histories, and laryngoscopy. Upon follow‐up, 70 percent of the subjects retained vocal cord abnormalities. The eight subjects who had normal cords continued to demonstrate hoarse voice quality. Only 53 percent of the subjects who retained some atypical condition of the cords showed the same condition upon re‐evaluation. In each case, the condition retained was vocal cord nodules.

The subjects who no longer showed vocal cord pathology had an average age of 15 years, eight months, as opposed to an average of 12 years, one month for those children who retained abnormalities. This difference was significant, indicating that age was an important factor in remission.

Surgical removal of vocal cord nodules without attention to improving the velopharyngeal valving mechanism proved to be an ineffective approach to management; however, improvement in valving mechanism was usually associated with improvement in the vocal cord condition although it did not always eliminate it.

None of the subjects in this study demonstrated an unequivocally adequate velopharyngeal valving mechanism. This was true even in the group of subjects who retained hoarseness but lost vocal cord pathology.

The study suggests that careful differential diagnosis is essential in the management of these laryngeal problems which are perhaps the result of laryngeal modification compensatory to poor velopharyngeal valving mechanisms. Investigations of laryngeal anatomy and physiology and study of functional correlates to both hoarseness and vocal cord pathology in these patients, is essential.
Far advanced malignant external otitis: Report of a survival
Authors: Aldous Edwin W. , Shinn John B.
Published: May 2014

Malignant external otitis has been the subject of several reports since it was described by Chandler in 1968. Cranial nerve involvement has been recognized as an ominous prognostic sign. Mortality has been about 50 percent (10/19) with facial nerve paralysis, and over 80 percent (9/11) with multiple cranial nerves involved.

A survival of a patient with involvement of cranial nerves VII and IX‐XI is reported. Effective treatment comprised surgical debridement and Gentamicin, Carbenicillin and Colistimethate. This therapeutic regimen is presently the best available for malignant external otitis.
Flexible fiberoptic laryngobronchoscopy
Authors: Davidson Terence M. , Bone Robert C. , Nahum Alan M.
Published: May 2014

Flexible fiberoptic endoscopy of the respiratory tract is a relatively new technique. It is essential that endoscopists and head and neck surgeons develop facility with this instrument. The technique of transnasal flexible laryngobronchoscopy is described. Unique applications are illustrated. Diagnostic and therapeutic uses include differentiation of benign from malignant neoplasms, diagnosis of respiratory inflammatory disease and facilitation in endotracheal intubation.
Hormones and sudden deafness
Authors: Schiff Maurice , Brown Michael
Published: May 2014

The cause of sudden deafness is often unknown; however, its treatment represents a real medical emergency. Prompt recovery should be defined as that occurring in about 15 days or less. Delayed recovery should be defined as recovery after 30 days, and in such cases the factors involved are extremely variable.

ACTH gel, 40 units per cc, given intramuscularly, and heparin, 10,000 units per cc, given subcutaneously gave prompt recovery in five out of. seven cases. These patients were treated two to three times weekly for about two weeks. If recovery is not present by that time, it would appear not to be worthwhile continuing therapy.

ACTH and heparin are both excellent agents. In addition seroidogenesis lipolytic ACTH has many other functions. It stimulates the production of cyclic AMP from ATP. This leaves a decrease in ADP. Cyclic AMP causes a decrease in aggregation of platelets. It also exerts a beneficial effect of beta (vasodilator) versus alpha (vaso‐constrictor) catecholamines.

Heparin, in addition to its anticoagulant effect, is one of the best binders of histamine in the body and, therefore, limits its cytodestructive effect. It is also an excellent antigen‐antibody reaction.

Both drugs would thereby tend to inhibit or ameliorate vasculitis, inhibit hypercoagulation and decrease hyperlipidemia. These effects encompass the rationale of its use in sudden deafness.