bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic Value of Color Doppler Ultrasonography of Temporal Arteries and Large Vessels in Giant Cell Arteritis: A Consecutive Case Series
Authors: Diamantopoulos Andreas P. , Haugeberg Glenn , Hetland Helene , Soldal Dag M. , Bie Rolf , Myklebust Geirmund
Published: October 2013

Objective

Color Doppler ultrasonography (CDUS) can detect inflammation in the vessel wall. No studies have evaluated the examination of the common carotid artery by CDUS in the diagnostics of giant cell arteritis (GCA). Our aim was to evaluate the combination of CDUS examination of the temporal, axillary, and common carotid arteries in the diagnosis of GCA.

Methods

Patients ages ≥50 years who were referred to our department between April 2010 and October 2012 and suspected to have GCA were consecutively examined. A positive clinical evaluation for GCA 6 months after the first evaluation by 3 rheumatologists was considered as the gold diagnostic standard. All patients underwent CDUS of the temporal, axillary, and common carotid arteries. A biopsy of the temporal artery was performed for most patients.

Results

A total of 88 patients were assessed. Forty‐six patients were diagnosed to have GCA by the defined gold standard. Forty‐eight patients had a positive CDUS of the temporal artery. Forty‐six patients diagnosed with GCA had a positive CDUS of the temporal, common carotid, and axillary arteries (100% sensitivity) and 4 patients had a positive CDUS without having GCA (91% specificity). Among the 39 GCA patients that underwent a biopsy, vasculitis was observed in 26 patients (66%), yielding a sensitivity of 67% and a specificity of 95%.

Conclusion

CDUS of the common carotid, axillary, and temporal arteries had an excellent sensitivity and high specificity to diagnose GCA. CDUS has the potential to replace biopsy in ordinary clinical care without compromising on sensitivity and specificity.
Phononic Band Gaps in Periodic Cellular Materials
Authors: Liebold‐Ribeiro Yvonne , Körner Carolin
Published: October 2013

The dynamic mechanical properties of finite two‐dimensional periodic cellular materials are investigated by finite element eigenmode analysis for different architectures of the unit cell. Frequency band gaps are examined in quadratic and hexagonal lattice topologies with regular, inverted, and chiral architecture. Pronounced band gaps develop for chiral lattices. The formation of band gaps can be traced back to the resonance behavior of the elementary building blocks of the cellular structure for different boundary conditions (mode transition). Based on the findings of this work periodic lattice materials with specific band gaps can be designed.
Accelerated Iron Oxide Nanoparticle Degradation Mediated by Polyester Encapsulation within Cellular Spheroids
Authors: Mattix Brandon , Olsen Timothy R. , Moore Thomas , Casco Megan , Simionescu Dan , Visconti Richard P. , Alexis Frank
Published: October 2013

Nanomaterials including gold nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, and magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles are utilized in tissue engineering for imaging, drug delivery, and maturation. Prolonged presence of these nanomaterials within biological systems remains a concern due to potential adverse affects on cell viability and phenotype. Accelerating nanomaterial degradation within biological systems is expected to reduce the potential adverse effects in the tissue. Similar to biodegradable polymeric scaffolds, the ideal nanomaterial remains stable for sufficient time to accomplish its desired task, and then rapidly degrades once that task is completed. Here, surface modifications are reported to accelerate iron oxide MNP degradation mediated by polymer encapsulation, in which iodegradable coatings composed of FDA approved polymers with different degradation rates are used: poly(lactide) (PLA) or copolymer poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide) (PLGA). Results demonstrate that degradation of MNPs can be controlled by varying the content and composition of the polymeric nanoparticles used for MNP encapsulation (PolyMNPs). Incorporated into cellular spheroids, PolyMNPs maintain a high viability compared to non‐coated MNPs, and are also useful in magnetically patterning cellular spheroids into fused tissues for tissue engineering applications. Accelerated degradation compared to non‐coated MNPs makes PolyMNPs a viable alternative for removing nanomaterials from tissues after accomplishing their desired role.
Enhanced Hydrogen Production by Photoreforming of Renewable Oxygenates Through Nanostructured Fe2O3 Polymorphs
Authors: Carraro Giorgio , Maccato Chiara , Gasparotto Alberto , Montini Tiziano , Turner Stuart , Lebedev Oleg I. , Gombac Valentina , Adami Gianpiero , Van Tendeloo Gustaaf , Barreca Davide , Fornasiero Paolo
Published: October 2013

Sunlight‐driven hydrogen production via photoreforming of aqueous solutions containing renewable compounds is an attractive option for sustainable energy generation with reduced carbon footprint. Nevertheless, the absence of photocatalysts combining high efficiency and stability upon solar light activation has up to date strongly hindered the development of this technology. Herein, two scarcely investigated iron(III) oxide polymorphs, β‐ and ε‐Fe2O3, possessing a remarkable activity in sunlight‐activated H2 generation from aqueous solutions of renewable oxygenates (i.e., ethanol, glycerol, glucose) are reported. For β‐Fe2O3 and ε‐Fe2O3, H2 production rates up to 225 and 125 mmol h−1 m−2 are obtained, with significantly superior performances with respect to the commonly investigated α‐Fe2O3.
Nongeminate and Geminate Recombination in PTB7:PCBM Solar Cells
Authors: Foertig Alexander , Kniepert Juliane , Gluecker Markus , Brenner Thomas , Dyakonov Vladimir , Neher Dieter , Deibel Carsten
Published: October 2013

A combination of transient photovoltage (TPV), voltage dependent charge extraction (CE), and time delayed collection field (TDCF) measurements is applied to poly[[4,8‐bis[(2‐ethylhexyl)oxy]benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b']dithiophene‐2,6‐diyl] [3‐fluoro‐2‐[(2‐ethylhexyl)carbonyl] thieno[3,4‐b]thiophenediyl]] (PTB7):[6,6]‐phenyl‐C71‐butyric acid (PC71BM) bulk heterojunction solar cells to analyze the limitations of photovoltaic performance. Devices are processed from pure chlorobenzene (CB) solution and a subset is optimized with 1,8‐diiodooctane (DIO) as co‐solvent. The dramatic changes in device performance are discussed with respect to the dominating loss processes. While in the devices processed from CB solution severe geminate and nongeminate recombination is observed, the use of DIO facilitates efficient polaron pair dissociation and minimizes geminate recombination. Thus, from the determined charge carrier decay rate under open circuit conditions and the voltage dependent charge carrier densities n(V), the nongeminate loss current Jloss of the samples with DIO alone enables the reconstruction of the current/voltage (j/V) characteristics across the whole operational voltage range. Geminate and nongeminate losses are considered to describe the j/V response of cells prepared without additive, but lead to a clearly overestimated device performance. The deviation between measured and reconstructed j/V characteristics is attributed to trapped charges in isolated domains of pure fullerene phases.
Replacing Copper Wires with Carbon Nanotube Wires in Electrical Transformers
Authors: Kurzepa Lukasz , Lekawa‐Raus Agnieszka , Patmore Jeff , Koziol Krzysztof
Published: October 2013

Carbon nanotubes, with their unique physical properties, have the potential to outperform conventionally used electrical wiring metals. Any improvement in this area of technology would be of great importance to industry, the economy, and the environment, as the global need for electrical energy and its efficient transfer and conversion rapidly increases. Carbon nanotube fibers, which are assemblies made purely of carbon nanotubes, can uniquely be used in macroscopic electrical applications including electrical wires and devices where the operation is enabled by these conductors. This paper presents details of the working prototype of an electrical machine, a transformer, where conventional copper wires have been replaced with conducting wires made purely of carbon nanotube fibers.
Characterization of the Attachment Mechanisms of Tissue‐Derived Cell Lines to Blood‐Compatible Polymers
Authors: Hoshiba Takashi , Nikaido Mayo , Tanaka Masaru
Published: October 2013

Recent advances in biomedical engineering require the development of new types of blood‐compatible polymers that also allow non‐blood cell attachment for the isolation of stem cells and circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from blood and for the development of artificial organs for use under blood‐contact conditions. Poly(2‐methoxyethyl acrylate) (PMEA) and poly(tetrafurfuryl acrylate) (PTHFA) were previously identified as blood‐compatible polymers. Here, it is demonstrated that cancer cells can attach to the PMEA and PTHFA substrates, and the differences in the attachment mechanisms to the PMEA and PTHFA substrates between cancer cells and platelets are investigated. It is also found that the adsorption‐induced deformation of fibrinogen, which is required for the attachment and activation of platelets, does not occur on the PMEA and PTHFA substrates. In contrast, fibronectin is deformed on the PMEA and PTHFA substrates. Therefore, it is concluded that cancer cells and not platelets can attach to the PMEA and PTHFA substrates based on this protein‐deformation difference between these substrates. Moreover, it is observed that cancer cells attach to the PMEA substrate via both integrin‐dependent and ‐independent mechanisms and attach to the PTHFA substrate only through an integrin‐dependent mechanism. It is expected that PMEA and PTHFA will prove useful for blood‐contact biomedical applications.
25th Anniversary Article: Interfacing Nanoparticles and Biology: New Strategies for Biomedicine
Authors: Tonga Gulen Yesilbag , Saha Krishnendu , Rotello Vincent M.
Published: October 2013

The exterior surface of nanoparticles (NPs) dictates the behavior of these systems with the outside world. Understanding the interactions of the NP surface functionality with biosystems enables the design and fabrication of effective platforms for therapeutics, diagnostics, and imaging agents. In this review, we highlight the role of chemistry in the engineering of nanomaterials, focusing on the fundamental role played by surface chemistry in controlling the interaction of NPs with proteins and cells.
Fabrication and Encapsulation of a Short‐Period Wire Grid Polarizer with Improved Viewing Angle by the Angled‐Evaporation Method
Authors: Shin Young Jae , Wu Yi‐Kuei , Lee Kyu‐Tae , Ok Jong G. , Guo L. Jay
Published: October 2013

A wire grid polarizer (WGP) is fabricated by using a simplified approach with a combination of nanoimprint lithography (NIL) and angled metal deposition. The period of the imprinted polymer nanograting used in this study is 180 nm. The WGP is formed by two consecutive angled aluminium evaporation processes, essentially halving the period for the aluminium (Al) nanograting. The fabricated WGP shows good optical properties for polarized light. More importantly, because of the slight reduction of the period of the nanograting as compared with previous results, the viewing angle, which is one of the most important characters in display equipment, is extended greatly. Encapsulation of the WGP using poly(methyl methacrylate) is conducted for practical application of the WGP. The thickness of the coating is controlled to be less than 1 μm, to prevent the degradation of the optical properties of the WGP.
Catalytic Cyanation of Carbon‐Carbon Triple Bonds Through a Three‐Component Cross‐Coupling Reaction under Nickel Catalysis
Authors: Yang Xiaofei , Arai Shigeru , Nishida Atsushi
Published: October 2013

A nickel‐catalyzed three‐component coupling reaction through cyanation of a carbon‐carbon triple bond is described. A nickel(0) complex effectively catalyzes a sequential coupling reaction between allenes, alkynes and hydrogen cyanide from acetone cyanohydrin in a highly regio‐ and stereoselective fashion. The trigger for this reaction is hydronickelation to allenes. The initial hydride attack predominantly occurs at the central carbon of the allene to give a π‐allylnickel(II) species. Subsequent syn‐carbometalation connects a β‐carbon of alkynoates and a less‐hindered carbon of the allylnickel(II) species, and the corresponding cyanoalkenes are obtained as a single stereoisomer without any another organometallic reagents as a coupling partner.

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Electromechanical Properties of Polymer Electrolyte‐Based Stretchable Supercapacitors
Authors: Cole Daniel P. , Reddy Arava Leela Mohana , Hahm Myung Gwan , McCotter Ryan , Hart Amelia H. C. , Vajtai Robert , Ajayan Pulickel M. , Karna Shashi P. , Bundy Mark L.
Published: October 2013

Aligned carbon nanotube (CNT) forests filled with a dehydrated polymer electrolyte are used to fabricate flexible solid state supercapacitors (SSCs) for multifunctional structural‐electronic applications. Local stiffness measurements on the composite electrodes determined through nano­indentation showed an 80% increase over the neat solid polymer electrolyte matrix. Electrochemical properties are monitored as a function of average tensile strain in the SSCs. Galvanostatic charge‐discharge tests with in situ microtensile testing on SSCs are used to show a 10% increase in the specific capacitance through the elastic region of the composite. The increase in capacitance is partly attributed to the enhanced double layer interaction that results from the partial alignment of the polymer electrolyte chains at the electrode‐electrolyte interface. When soaked in 1 m sulfuric acid, the specific capacitance of the CNT‐polymer electrolyte reached approximately 72 F g–1 at 60 °C.
3D representation and analysis of enthesis morphology
Authors: Noldner Lara K. , Edgar Heather J.H.
Published: October 2013

This comparison of methods for assessing the development of muscle insertion sites, or entheses, suggests that three‐dimensional (3D) quantification of enthesis morphology can produce a picture of habitual muscle use patterns in a past population that is similar to one produced by ordinal scores for describing enthesis morphology. Upper limb skeletal elements (humeri, radii, and ulnae) from a sample of 24 middle‐aged adult males from the Pottery Mound site in New Mexico were analyzed for both fibrous and fibrocartilaginous enthesis development with three different methods: ordinal scores, two‐dimensional (2D) area measurements, and 3D surface areas. The methods were compared using tests for asymmetry and correlations among variables in each quantitative data set. 2D representations of enthesis area did not agree as closely as ordinal scores and 3D surface areas did regarding which entheses were significantly asymmetrical. There was significant correlation between 3D and 2D data, but correlation coefficients were not consistently high. Intraobserver error was also assessed for the 3D method. Cronbach's alpha values fell between 0.68 and 0.73, and error rates for all entheses fell between 10% and 15%. Marginally acceptable intraobserver error and the analytic versatility of 3D images encourage further investigation of using 3D scanning technology for quantifying enthesis development. Am J Phys Anthropol 152:417–424, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Three‐dimensional volumetric computed tomographic scoring as an objective outcome measure for chronic rhinosinusitis: clinical correlations and comparison to Lund‐Mackay scoring
Authors: Pallanch John F. , Yu Lifeng , Delone David , Robb Rich , Holmes David R. , Camp Jon , Edwards Phil , McCollough Cynthia H. , Ponikau Jens , Dearking Amy C. , Lane John , Primak Andrew , Shinkle Aaron , Hagan John , Frigas Evangelo , Ocel Joseph J. , Tombers Nicole , Siwani Rizwan , Orme Nicholas M. , Reed Kurtis B. , Jerath Nivedita , Dhillon Robinder , Kita Hirohito
Published: October 2013

Background

We aimed to test the hypothesis that three‐dimensional (3D) volume‐based scoring of computed tomography (CT) images of the paranasal sinuses was superior to Lund‐Mackay CT scoring of disease severity in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). We determined correlation between changes in CT scores (using each scoring system) with changes in other measures of disease severity (symptoms, endoscopic scoring, and quality of life) in patients with CRS treated with triamcinolone.

Methods

The study group comprised 48 adult subjects with CRS. Baseline symptoms and quality of life were assessed. Endoscopy and CT scans were performed. Patients received a single systemic dose of intramuscular triamcinolone and were reevaluated 1 month later. Strengths of the correlations between changes in CT scores and changes in CRS signs and symptoms and quality of life were determined.

Results

We observed some variability in degree of improvement for the different symptom, endoscopic, and quality‐of‐life parameters after treatment. Improvement of parameters was significantly correlated with improvement in CT disease score using both CT scoring methods. However, volumetric CT scoring had greater correlation with these parameters than Lund‐Mackay scoring.

Conclusion

Volumetric scoring exhibited higher degree of correlation than Lund‐Mackay scoring when comparing improvement in CT score with improvement in score for symptoms, endoscopic exam, and quality of life in this group of patients who received beneficial medical treatment for CRS.
The impact of culturable bacterial community on histopathology in chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Rom Darren , Snidvongs Kornkiat , Sacks Peta‐Lee , Dalgorf Dustin , Pratt Eleanor , Earls Peter , Sacks Raymond , Harvey Richard J.
Published: October 2013

Background

The influence of the microbial community on inflammatory subtype in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) has been proposed. Superantigen mechanisms potentially create a T helper 2 (Th‐2)/eosinophilic dominated inflammation as a product of local flora rather than an intrinsic mucosal process. The associations between culturable bacteria and the histopathology and clinical features of CRS patients are described.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study involving patients with CRS undergoing surgery was undertaken. Middle meatal swabs were performed at surgery for microbiological evaluation. Mucosal biopsies were taken and a blinded histopathological profile was performed. Disease specific quality of life and nasal symptom scores were recorded. The presence of culturable organisms and particular pathogens were compared with histopathology and clinical outcomes.

Results

A total of 95 patients were assessed (48.4% female, mean age 45.6 ± 14.0 years), of which 47.3% had a culturable organism. Tissue eosinophilia (>10/high‐power field [HPF]) was found in 46.1% of these patients and 30.3% had neutrophilic infiltrate, with the presence of neither Gram‐positive organisms, Gram‐negative organisms, nor species correlating to pathology subtype. A culturable pathogen was a predictor of subepithelial fibrosis (χ2 = 6.36, p = 0.04) and Gram‐negative bacteria had the strongest association (χ2 = 18.82, p < 0.01). There were no other significant associations with other clinical outcomes.

Conclusion

The culturable bacterial community has little impact on histopathology in CRS. While more sensitive tests may detect bacteria in the sinuses, the impact of the simple “culturable” bacteria on the underlying pathologic process is limited. Changes, such as subepithelial fibrosis, suggest colonization may lead to undesirable local mucosal damage and remodeling.
Does receiving an American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Foundation Centralized Otolaryngology Research Efforts grant influence career path and scholarly impact among fellowship‐trained rhinologists?
Authors: Eloy Jean Anderson , Svider Peter F. , Setzen Michael , Baredes Soly , Folbe Adam J.
Published: October 2013

Background

To determine whether American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO‐HNSF) Centralized Otolaryngology Research Efforts (CORE) grants influence career paths and scholarly impact of fellowship‐trained rhinologists, and whether funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and CORE programs is associated with increased scholarly impact among rhinologists. Another aim was to explore whether obtaining CORE grant funding is associated with NIH award acquisition.

Methods

Practice setting, academic rank, and fellowship‐training status were determined for individuals in the CORE grant database. The h‐index and publication experience of practitioners was calculated using the Scopus database. Faculty listings were used to determine this data for a non‐CORE‐grants‐funded “control” group of academic rhinologists. Active and past NIH funding was obtained using the NIH RePORTER database.

Results

Fifteen of 26 (57.7%) fellowship‐trained rhinologists receiving CORE grants were funded for rhinologic projects. Five of 6 rhinologists receiving NIH funding had a CORE‐grants‐funding history. Twenty‐two of 26 (84.6%) rhinologists receiving CORE funding are currently in academic practice. Academic rhinologists receiving CORE or NIH funding had higher h‐indices, a result reaching significance among promoted faculty and those with greater than 10 years of publication experience.

Conclusion

Encouraging the pursuit of CORE grants among junior faculty as well as trainees interested in rhinology may be a strategy for developing highly effective research habits that pay dividends after the first few years of one's career. Fellowship‐trained rhinologists with a CORE funding history predominantly pursue careers in academic medicine, although their CORE projects are not necessarily related to rhinologic topics.
Katalytische Funktionalisierung von C(sp2)‐H‐ und C(sp3)‐H‐Bindungen unter Verwendung von zweizähnigen dirigierenden Gruppen
Authors: Rouquet Guy , Chatani Naoto
Published: October 2013

C‐H‐Bindungen sind in organischen Verbindungen allgegenwärtig. Daher erscheint die direkte Funktionalisierung von Substraten durch Aktivierung von C‐H‐Bindungen als eine gute Strategie, weil so die Herstellung funktionalisierter Ausgangsstoffe vermieden werden kann. Wichtig ist hierbei der Aspekt der Regioselektivität, da organische Moleküle viele C‐H‐Bindungen enthalten können. Erzielt werden kann eine solche Regiokontrolle durch die Verwendung einer dirigierenden Gruppe, die den Katalysator in unmittelbare Nähe zur umzusetzenden C‐H‐Bindung bringt. Viele funktionelle Gruppen wurden hinsichtlich der Verwendung als dirigierende Gruppen bei der Umwandlung von C‐H‐Bindungen getestet. 2005 berichteten Daugulis et al. über die Arylierung von nicht‐aktivierten C(sp3)‐H‐Bindungen mit 8‐Aminochinolin und Picolinamid als zweizähnigen dirigierenden Gruppen in Gegenwart von Pd(OAc)2 als Katalysator. Basierend auf diesem Befund wurde seitdem eine Reihe von C‐H‐Funktionalisierungen unter Verwendung von Systemen zweizähniger dirigierender Gruppen entwickelt. In diesem Aufsatz werden die jüngsten Fortschritte auf diesem Gebiet erörtert.
Thermoplastic elastomers based on high‐density polyethylene, ethylene–propylene–diene terpolymer, and ground tire rubber dynamically vulcanized with dicumyl peroxide
Authors: Céspedes Rosa Idalia Narro , Gámez José Francisco Hernández , Velázquez María Guadalupe Neira , Belmontes Felipe Ávalos , de León Ramón Enrique Díaz , Fernández Oliverio Santiago Rodríguez , Orta Carlos Alberto Ávila , Hernández Ernesto Hernández
Published: October 2013

Thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs) based on high‐density polyethylene (HDPE), ethylene–propylene–diene terpolymer (EPDM), and ground tire rubber (GTR) were dynamically vulcanized with dicumyl peroxide (DCP). The polymer blend was composed of 40% HDPE, 30% EPDM, and 30% GTR, and the concentration of DCP was varied from 0.3 to 3.6 parts per hundred rubber (phr). The properties of the TPVs were determined by evaluation of the gel fraction content and the mechanical properties. In addition, IR spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry analysis were performed as a function of the DCP content. Decreases in the Young's modulus of the blends and the crystallinity of HDPE were observed when the content of DCP was greater than 1.8 phr. The results regarding the gel content indicate that the presence of DCP promoted the crosslinking of the thermoplastic matrix, and optimal properties were obtained with 1.5% DCP. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39901.
Polymer electrolyte membranes based on blends of sulfonated polysulfone and PEO‐grafted polyethersulfone for low temperature water electrolysis
Authors: Deimede Valadoula , Labou Diamadoula , Neophytides Stylianos G.
Published: October 2013

Polymer electrolyte membranes based on blends consisting of polyethylene oxide (PEO) grafted polyether sulfone (PES‐g‐PEO) and sulfonated polysulfone (SPSF(Na)) are prepared and their electrochemical and mechanical properties are investigated with respect to water electrolysis operation. The prepared blends are amorphous; they exhibit high glass transition temperatures and high thermal stability, thus ensuring the dimensional stability under electrolysis cell operation. Because of the presence of the water soluble constituent PES‐g‐PEO, the prepared blend membranes show very high water uptakes, reaching up to 370 wt %. Membrane electrode assemblies are fabricated and evaluated in single cells demonstrating that proton conductivity depends on the PEO‐g‐PES content as well as the PEO molecular weight. Namely, the increased concentration of PES‐g‐PEO leads to increased number of charge carriers, thus result in enhanced ionic conductivity. The use of longer PEO units (MW 5000), due to their improved chain mobility, facilitates the fast proton conduction as well. The maximum proton conductivity value is achieved (1.4 × 10−2 S cm−1, 80°C) for the blend with the higher PEO‐g‐PES content (20 wt %) and the higher PEO molecular weight (5000). Under electrolysis cell operation, the above‐mentioned membrane with the lower ohmic resistance shows the best performance, although it is still poor mainly due to the use of Pt as anode. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39922.
CLONING AND SEQUENCE ANALYSIS OF NEUROPEPTIDE F FROM THE ORIENTAL TOBACCO BUDWORM Helicoverpa assulta (GUENÉE)
Authors: Liu Xiaoguang , Zhang Yifan , Zhou Zijing , Zhao Zhangwu , Liu Xiaoguang
Published: October 2013

Neuropeptide F (NPF), the invertebrate homolog of neuropeptide Y (NPY) in vertebrates, shares similarity of structure and function with NPY. However, a few NPYs were also found in some insect species. In this paper, two neuropeptide genes encoding a NPF and a NPY were cloned from a tobacco budworm Helicoverpa assulta cDNA library. The npf1 gene further produces two splicing variants of rnRNAs, i.e. npf1a (lacks the 120 bp segment) and npf1b (includes a 120 bp segment). These two splicing variants form two mature peptides, NPF1a and NPF1b by modification of transcripts. NPF and NPY co‐exist in H. assulta.
Multiple Reaction Pathways Operating in the Mechanism of Vinylogous Mannich‐Type Reaction Activated by a Water Molecule
Authors: Uematsu Ryohei , Maeda Satoshi , Taketsugu Tetsuya
Published: October 2013

A systematic search for reaction pathways for the vinylogous Mannich‐type reaction was performed by the artificial force induced reaction method. This reaction affords δ‐amino‐γ‐butenolide in one pot by mixing 2‐trimethylsiloxyfuran, imine, and water under solvent‐free conditions. Surprisingly, the search identified as many as five working pathways. Among them, two concertedly produce anti and syn isomers of the product. Another two give an intermediate, which is a regioisomer of the main product. This intermediate can undergo a retro‐Mannich reaction to give a pair of intermediates: an imine and 2‐furanol. The remaining pathway directly generates this intermediate pair. The imine and 2‐furanol easily react with each other to afford the product. Thus, all of these stepwise pathways finally converge to give the main product. The rate‐determining step of all five (two concerted and three stepwise) pathways have a common mechanism: concerted SiO bond formation through the nucleophilic attack of a water molecule on the silicon atom followed by proton transfer from the water molecule to the imine. Therefore, these five pathways have comparable barriers and compete with each other.
Ein neuer Ansatz zur nachträglichen Bestimmung der Brandtemperatur von Stahlbetonbauteilen
Authors: Unterderweide Klaus , Rigo Ellen
Published: October 2013

Für die Planung von Instandsetzungsmaßnahmen nach einem Brand stellt sich die Frage, welche maximale Temperatur erreicht wurde. Die bisher praktizierten Untersuchungen beschränkten sich auf röntgenographische Messungen oder thermoanalytische Untersuchungen bzw. Porositätsmessungen. Diese Methoden haben den Nachteil, dass die erfahrene Brandtemperatur nicht kontinuierlich nachgewiesen werden kann. Sie decken lediglich enge Temperaturbereiche ab. Im Rahmen der hier vorgestellten Untersuchungen wurde erstmals die Infrarot‐Spektroskopie eingesetzt. Der große Vorteil hierbei ist, dass auch nicht‐kristalline (amorphe) Anteile erfasst werden können. Es konnte gezeigt werden, dass die Temperatur die Lage der Si‐O‐Streckschwingungsbande der festigkeitsbestimmenden Calciumsilikathydrat‐Phasen (CSH‐Phasen) beeinflusst, wobei diese sich irreversibel mit zunehmender Temperatur zu niedrigeren Wellenzahlen verschiebt. Die Verschiebung ist vermutlich auf eine Depolymerisation der kettenförmigen Si‐O‐Si‐Ketten der CSH‐Phasen bis hin zum Monosilikat b‐C2S zu erklären.

A new approach to determine the maximum temperature of fire damaged reinforced concrete building elements. When a fire has damaged a reinforced concrete structure, an engineer has to work out a proper and efficient repair strategy. Because of the effect of the fire on the structural properties of the concrete and the steel, it is important to know the maximum temperature reached. Actually, methods like x‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetry and mercury intrusion are used for this investigation. These methods can only determine a few temperature steps and can’t provide a stepless thermometer. From these methods no step‐less heat exposure can be drawn. For the first time the FTIR spectroscopy was used to determine the maximum temperature. This method has the advantage that the amorphous structures can be examined. It is shown that the wavenumber of the Si‐O‐stretching mode is a function of the temperature. The wavenumber decreases with increasing temperature. It should be noted that this correlation is independent from the time the sample is exposed to temperature. The decreases of the wavenumber is probably due to the fact that the Si‐O‐Si‐chains of the CSH phases do depolymerise until monosilicate b‐C2S.
23. Dresdner Brückenbausymposium – nach wie vor mit hoher Beteiligung
Authors: Stritzke Jürgen
Published: October 2013

Erstmals fand das Dresdner Brückenbausymposium an einer Exzellenzuniversität statt, denn die TU Dresden gehört zu den elf Universitäten, die in der 2. Phase der Exzellenzinitiative als Exzellenz‐Universitäten ausgewählt wurden. Aber nicht nur im bundesweiten Wettbewerb um die Exzellenzinitiative war die TU Dresden erfolgreich. Das Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung (BMBF) teilte im März vergangenen Jahres mit, dass die TU Dresden die erfolgreichste Hochschule bei der Einwerbung von BMBF‐Projekten sei. Laut Statistischem Bundesamt gehört die TU Dresden zu den Top 3 bei der Einwerbung von Drittmitteln überhaupt. Im aktuellen DFG‐Förderatlas hat sich die TU Dresden um fünf Plätze verbessern können. Außerdem konnte sich die TU Dresden als die Nummer 1 der deutschen Universitäten auf dem Gebiet der Nanotechnologie beweisen (nach einem Material des Rektors der TU Dresden).

Pünktlich 9 Uhr eröffnete Univ.‐Prof. Dr.‐Ing. Dr.‐Ing. E.h. Manfred Curbach, Direktor des Instituts für Massivbau der TU Dresden, am 12. März 2013 das 23. Dresdner Brückenbausymposium, nachdem schon am Vorabend das Treffen der Brückenbauer im Foyer des hiesigen Hörsaalzentrums stattgefunden hatte.

1 250 Gäste aus dem In‐ und Ausland waren gekommen, das Neueste über Planung, Bauausführung, Instandsetzung und Ertüchtigung von Brücken zu hören.
When Fluency Signals Truth: Prior Successful Reliance on Fluency Moderates the Impact of Fluency on Truth Judgments
Authors: Scholl Sabine G. , Greifeneder Rainer , Bless Herbert
Published: October 2013

Repeated statements are more frequently judged to be true. One position relates this so‐called “truth effect” to metacognitive experiences of fluency, suggesting that repeated statements are more frequently judged to be true because they are processed more fluently. Although most prior research focused on why repetition influences truth judgments, considerably less is known about when fluency is used as information. The present research addresses this question and investigates whether reliance on fluency is moderated by learning experiences. Specifically, we focus on changes in the reliance on fluency over the course of time. A series of experiments reveals that fluency is more likely to be used in truth judgments when previous reliance on fluency has resulted in valid judgments, compared with when previous reliance on fluency was misleading. These findings suggest that reliance on fluency in judgments is a finely tuned process that takes prior experiences with fluency‐based judgments into account. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ATP‐binding cassette transporters in liver
Authors: Wlcek Katrin , Stieger Bruno
Published: October 2013

The human ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) superfamily consists of 48 members with 14 of them identified in normal human liver at the protein level. Most of the ABC members act as ATP dependent efflux transport systems. In the liver, ABC transporters are involved in diverse physiological processes including export of cholesterol, bile salts, and metabolic endproducts. Consequently, impaired ABC transporter function is involved in inherited diseases like sitosterolemia, hyperbilirubinemia, or cholestasis. Furthermore, altered expression of some of the hepatic ABCs have been associated with primary liver tumors. This review gives a short overview about the function of hepatic ABCs. Special focus is addressed on the localization and ontogenesis of ABC transporters in the human liver. In addition, their expression pattern in primary liver tumors is discussed. © 2013 BioFactors, 40(2):188–198, 2014
Alterations in human muscle protein metabolism with aging: Protein and exercise as countermeasures to offset sarcopenia
Authors: Churchward‐Venne Tyler A. , Breen Leigh , Phillips Stuart M.
Published: October 2013

Aging is associated with a reduction in skeletal muscle mass—sarcopenia—the etiology of which is multifactorial. One mechanism is that aging has, as one of its hallmarks, a reduced sensitivity of skeletal muscle to the normally potent anabolic effects of protein feeding and resistance exercise, and to the anticatabolic effects of insulin, the combination of which has been termed “anabolic resistance.” However, this reduced sensitivity of skeletal muscle to anabolic stimuli may, in some cases, be overcome by providing a greater quantity of the nutrition and/or exercise stimulus. Daily habitual physical activity appears to be a primary determinant of anabolic resistance as we have recently shown that as little as 14 days of reduced ambulatory activity was sufficient to induce anabolic resistance in the elderly by attenuating the postprandial increase in muscle protein synthesis (MPS). The etiology of anabolic resistance is complex and may include alterations in amino acid uptake/utilization, cell signaling status, muscle blood flow, and microvascular perfusion (impacting amino acid delivery and availability). Further, there appears to be sexual dimorphism with advancing age in the response of MPS to amino acid/insulin provision. Maintenance of physical activity during aging is of fundamental importance for skeletal muscle to allow it to appropriately respond to the anabolic effects of nutrition. © 2013 BioFactors, 40(2):199–205, 2014
Time‐resolved microfluorimetry: An alternative method for free radical and metabolic rate detection in microalgae
Authors: Bijoux Amadine , Ribou Anne‐Cécile
Published: October 2013

Oxidative stress leads to an increase in the production of reactive oxygen species in cells and can be induced by environmental factors. To study free radical production in living microalgae, we use time‐resolved microfluorimetry, a technology adopted from research on mammalian cells. In contrast to fluorescent probe‐based measurements that rely on intensity changes, our sensor detects the presence of free radicals through collisional quenching, and is insensitive to most artifacts commonly observed with intensity‐based methods. A new probe, 1‐pyrenebutanol allows estimation of free radicals production in the green microalga Tetraselmis ssp., for the first time. In addition, our method monitors simultaneously metabolic rate (through bound‐free NAD(P)H ratio). Our results show that free radical production in algal cells is correlated to algal aging, and that during cell growth phases both intracellular free radicals and metabolic activity increase. Concerning thermal stress, we observe that rapid and low temperature changes (<10°C) induce instantaneously an increase in ROS production. Our findings provide new insights into the production of free radicals in response to environmental stresses in unicellular green algae.
Natural products – modifying metabolite pathways in plants
Authors: Staniek Agata , Bouwmeester Harro , Fraser Paul D. , Kayser Oliver , Martens Stefan , Tissier Alain , van der Krol Sander , Wessjohann Ludger , Warzecha Heribert
Published: October 2013

The diversity of plant natural product (PNP) molecular structures is reflected in the variety of biochemical and genetic pathways that lead to their formation and accumulation. Plant secondary metabolites are important commodities, and include fragrances, colorants, and medicines. Increasing the extractable amount of PNP through plant breeding, or more recently by means of metabolic engineering, is a priority. The prerequisite for any attempt at metabolic engineering is a detailed knowledge of the underlying biosynthetic and regulatory pathways in plants. Over the past few decades, an enormous body of information about the biochemistry and genetics of biosynthetic pathways involved in PNPs production has been generated. In this review, we focus on the three large classes of plant secondary metabolites: terpenoids (or isoprenoids), phenylpropanoids, and alkaloids. All three provide excellent examples of the tremendous efforts undertaken to boost our understanding of biosynthetic pathways, resulting in the first successes in plant metabolic engineering. We further consider what essential information is still missing, and how future research directions could help achieve the rational design of plants as chemical factories for high‐value products.
Engineering stress tolerance of Escherichia coli by stress‐induced mutagenesis (SIM)‐based adaptive evolution
Authors: Zhu Linjiang , Cai Zhen , Zhang Yanping , Li Yin
Published: October 2013

Microbial tolerance to toxic products and biomass hydrolysates is a challenge for the production of fuels and chemicals from renewable resources. To improve cellular tolerance to these environmental stresses, a novel adaptive evolutionary strategy based on stress‐induced mutagenesis (SIM) was developed using non‐dividing cells. The concept of this method was proved using Escherichia coli FC40 as a model strain, which was used to quantitatively evaluate the rate of SIM. By deleting either the mutL or mutS gene to disturb the mismatch repair activity of the host cells, the SIM rate under stressful conditions increased by 92‐ and 57‐fold, respectively. A periodic SIM‐based adaptive evolution procedure, which synchronized the mutagenesis and the selection process in a single plate‐incubation step, was then developed using the mutL‐deleted mutant. E. coli mutants tolerant to high concentrations of butanol (13 g/L), NaCl (95 g/L), and high temperature (50°C) were obtained. These results indicate that stress‐induced adaptive evolution in non‐dividing cells is an effective approach that can improve microbial tolerance against various stresses and generate robust microbial strains suitable for production of fuels and chemicals.
The profiling and identification of the metabolites of (+)‐catechin and study on their distribution in rats by HPLC‐DAD‐ESI‐IT‐TOF‐MSn technique
Authors: Liang Jing , Xu Feng , Zhang Ya‐Zhou , Zang Xin‐Yu , Wang Dan , Shang Ming‐Ying , Wang Xuan , Chui De‐Hua , Cai Shao‐Qing
Published: October 2013

(+)‐Catechin, a potential beneficial compound to human health, is widely distributed in plants and foods. A high‐performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector and combined with electrospray ionization ion trap time‐of‐flight multistage mass spectrometry method was applied to profile and identify the metabolites of (+)‐catechin in rats and to study the distribution of these metabolites in rat organs for the first time. In total, 51 phase II metabolites (44 new) and three phase I metabolites were tentatively identified, comprising 16 (+)‐catechin conjugates, 14 diarylpropan‐2‐ol metabolites, 6 phenyl valerolactone metabolites and 18 aromatic acid metabolites. Further, 19 phase II metabolites were new compounds. The in vivo metabolic reactions of (+)‐catechin in rats were found to be ring‐cleavage, sulfation, glucuronidation, methylation, dehydroxylation and dehydrogenation. The numbers of detected metabolites in urine, plasma, small intestine, kidney, liver, lung, heart, brain and spleen were 53, 23, 27, 9, 7, 5, 3, 2 and 1, respectively. This indicated that small intestine, kidney and liver were the major organs for the distribution of (+)‐catechin metabolites. In addition, eight metabolites were found to possess bioactivities according to literature. These results are very helpful for better comprehension of the in vivo metabolism of (+)‐catechin and its pharmacological actions, and also can give strong indications on the effective forms of (+)‐catechin in vivo. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects and Outcomes in Civilian and Military Traumatic Brain Injury: Similarities, Differences, and Forensic Implications
Authors: Lamberty Greg J. , Nelson Nathaniel W. , Yamada Torrii
Published: October 2013

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a prominent public health problem in both civilian and military settings. This article discusses similarities and differences in the assessment and treatment of TBI and the attendant forensic implications. Acute care and management of moderate/severe TBI tend to be similar across environments, as is the recognition of disability status in affected individuals. By contrast, an increased focus on mild TBI in recent years has resulted in a reliance on self‐report and screening measures to validate the occurrence of events leading to injury. This has complicated assessment, treatment and subsequent medicolegal proceedings. The neuropsychological literature has provided significant guidance on these difficult issues, although the complexity of disability adjudication for active duty members of the military and veterans continues to pose challenges for clinicians in evaluative and treatment contexts. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antioxidant efficacy and adhesion rescue by a recombinant mussel foot protein‐6
Authors: Nicklisch Sascha C. T. , Das Saurabh , Martinez Rodriguez Nadine R. , Waite J. Herbert , Israelachvili Jacob N.
Published: October 2013

Mytilus foot protein type 6 (mfp‐6) is crucial for maintaining the reducing conditions needed for optimal wet adhesion in marine mussels. In this report, we describe the expression and production of a recombinant Mytilus californianus foot protein type 6 variant 1 (rmfp‐6.1) fused with a hexahistidine affinity tag in Escherichia coli and its purification by affinity chromatography. Recombinant mfp‐6 showed high purification yields of 5–6 mg L−1 cell culture and excellent solubility in low pH buffers that retard oxidation of its many thiol groups. Purified rmfp‐6.1 protein showed high 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity when compared with vitamin C. Using the highly sensitive surface forces apparatus (SFA) technique to measure interfacial surface forces in the nano‐Newton range, we show that rmfp‐6.1 is also able to rescue the oxidation‐dependent adhesion loss of mussel foot protein 3 (mfp‐3) at pH 3. The adhesion rescue is related to a reduction of dopaquinone back to 3,4‐dihydroxyphenyl‐l‐alanine in mfp‐3, which is the reverse reaction observed during the detrimental enzymatic browning process in fruits and vegetables. Broadly viewed, rmfp‐6.1 has potential as a versatile antioxidant for applications ranging from personal products to antispoilants for perishable foods during processing and storage. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 29:1587–1593, 2013
Triterpenoids from the Stem Bark of Melia toosendan and Determination of Their Absolute Configurations at C(24)
Authors: Zhang Yi , Tang Chun‐Ping , Ke Chang‐Qiang , Yao Sheng , Ye Yang
Published: October 2013

Six new triterpenoids, meliasenins S–X (1–6, resp.), were isolated from the stem bark of Melia toosendan. Their structures were elucidated by mass spectrometry, NMR experiments, and comparison with the known compounds. Particularly, the absolute configuration at C(24) in new compounds was determined through their CD spectra of the [Pr(FOD)3] complex (fod=1,1,1,2,2,3,3,7,7,7‐decafluoroheptane‐4,6‐dione) in CCl4, as well as by using Mosher's method.
Evaluation of Adsorption Kinetics and Equilibrium for the Removal of Benzene by Modified Diatomite
Authors: Khalighi Sheshdeh R. , Khosravi Nikou M. R. , Badii K. , Mohammadzadeh S.
Published: October 2013

In order to find alternative low‐cost adsorbents for volatile organic liquids, the effectiveness of nickel oxide nanoparticles‐modified diatomite (NONMD) in removing benzene was assessed. The impact of different operation parameters such as pH, contact time, initial benzene concentration, and adsorption dosage on the adsorption process was evaluated and optimum experimental conditions were identified. Surface area and morphology of the nanoparticles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET) isotherms, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX) analysis. The isotherm and kinetics effect of the adsorbent were evaluated.
Tunable Spin‐Crossover Behavior of the Hofmann‐like Network {Fe(bpac)[Pt(CN)4]} through Host–Guest Chemistry
Authors: Bartual‐Murgui Carlos , Akou Amal , Shepherd Helena J. , Molnár Gábor , Real J. Antonio , Salmon Lionel , Bousseksou Azzedine
Published: October 2013

A study of the spin‐crossover (SCO) behavior of the tridimensional porous coordination polymer {Fe(bpac)[Pt(CN)4]} (bpac=bis(4‐pyridyl)acetylene) on adsorption of different mono‐ and polyhalobenzene guest molecules is presented. The resolution of the crystal structure of {Fe(bpac)[Pt(CN)4]}⋅G (G=1,2,4‐trichlorobenzene) shows preferential guest sites establishing π⋅⋅⋅π stacking interactions with the host framework. These host–guest interactions may explain the relationship between the modification of the SCO behavior and both the chemical nature of the guest molecule (electronic factors) and the number of adsorbed molecules (steric factors).