bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Importance of the interaction protein–protein of the CaM–PDE1A and CaM–MLCK complexes in the development of new anti‐CaM drugs
Authors: González‐Andrade Martin , Mata Rachel , Madariaga‐Mazón Abraham , Rodríguez‐Sotres Rogelio , del Pozo‐Yauner Luis , Sosa‐Peinado Alejandro
Published: March 2013

Protein–protein interactions play central roles in physiological and pathological processes. The bases of the mechanisms of drug action are relevant to the discovery of new therapeutic targets. This work focuses on understanding the interactions in protein–protein–ligands complexes, using proteins calmodulin (CaM), human calcium/calmodulin‐dependent 3′,5′‐cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase 1A active human (PDE1A), and myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) and ligands αII–spectrin peptide (αII–spec), and two inhibitors of CaM (chlorpromazine (CPZ) and malbrancheamide (MBC)). The interaction was monitored with a fluorescent biosensor of CaM (hCaM M124C–mBBr). The results showed changes in the affinity of CPZ and MBC depending on the CaM–protein complex under analysis. For the Ca2+–CaM, Ca2+–CaM–PDE1A, and Ca2+–CaM–MLCK complexes, CPZ apparent dissociation constants (Kds) were 1.11, 0.28, and 0.55 μM, respectively; and for MBC Kds were 1.43, 1.10, and 0.61 μM, respectively. In competition experiments the addition of calmodulin binding peptide 1 (αII–spec) to Ca2+–hCaM M124C–mBBr quenched the fluorescence (Kd = 2.55 ± 1.75 pM) and the later addition of MBC (up to 16 μM) did not affect the fluorescent signal. Instead, the additions of αII–spec to a preformed Ca2+–hCaM M124C–mBBr–MBC complex modified the fluorescent signal. However, MBC was able to displace the PDE1A and MLCK from its complex with Ca2+–CaM. In addition, docking studies were performed for all complexes with both ligands showing an excellent correlation with experimental data. These experiments may help to explain why in vivo many CaM drugs target prefer only a subset of the Ca2+–CaM regulated proteins and adds to the understanding of molecular interactions between protein complexes and small ligands. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A biomimetic Protein G affinity adsorbent: an Ugi ligand for immunoglobulins and Fab fragments based on the third IgG‐binding domain of Protein G
Authors: El Khoury Graziella , Lowe Christopher R.
Published: March 2013

This work reports the development of a synthetic affinity adsorbent for immunoglobulins based on the Fab‐binding domain of Streptococcal Protein G (SpG‐domain III). The ligand (A2C7I1) was synthesized by the four‐component Ugi reaction to generate a substituted peptoidal scaffold mimicking key amino acid residues of SpG. Computer‐aided analysis suggests a putative binding site on the CH1 domain of the Fab molecule. In silico studies, supported by affinity chromatography in comparison with immobilized SpG, as well as analytical characterization by liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization–mass spectrometry and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance of the ligand synthesized in solution, indicated the authenticity and suitability of the designed ligand for the purification of immunoglobulins. The immobilized ligand displayed an apparent static binding capacity of ~17 mg IgG ml−1 and a dissociation constant of 5.34 × 10−5 M. Preparative chromatography demonstrated the ability of the immobilized ligand to purify IgG and Fab fragments from crude mammalian and yeast cell cultures, under near physiological ionic strength and pH, to yield proteins of 99% and 93% purity, respectively. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Generation of picoliter droplets of liquid for electrospray ionization with piezoelectric inkjet
Authors: Luo Chen , Ma Yuan , Li Haifang , Chen Fengming , Uchiyama Katsumi , Lin Jin‐Ming
Published: March 2013

We report the association of inkjet and electrospray ionization MS to detect picoliter droplet, where the liquid volume and its position onto the tip can be precisely controlled to form ultrafine droplets for successive ionization of the analyte. Single rectangle pulse was applied to piezoelectric device on inkjet microchip for the ejection of each picoliter droplet, and it was controlled by a computer. The voltage and width of driving pulse for the inkjet were optimized to make reproducible ejection of the solvent with low viscosity. The volume of each droplet was about 600 pl, and a trigger of 10 droplets was selected as the best inlet mode taking relative standard derivation of the droplets into consideration. The target substrate used with high voltage to form ionization was graphite, after several attempts with some materials. High‐speed camera was used to capture the breaking‐up process of a droplet. The distance between the inkjet nozzle and the tip was set at 2 cm to avoid short circuit. The influences on the mass intensity of the diameter of the tip, the volume and the concentration of the sample were examined. The tip with a small diameter performed greater intensity, and the limit of detection decreased, whereas the small volume of liquid played high ionization efficiency. Linear regression in the range between 1 and 200 ppm for caffeine was conducted, where internal standard theobromine was used. Some real samples were also detected with the instrument. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phototoxic effect of photodynamic therapy on lung cancer cells grown as a monolayer and three dimensional multicellular spheroids
Authors: Manoto Sello L. , Houreld Nicolette N. , Abrahamse Heidi
Published: March 2013

Background and Objective

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a minimally invasive therapeutic modality for the treatment of neoplastic and non‐neoplastic diseases. The photochemical interaction of light, photosensitizer (PS) and molecular oxygen produces singlet oxygen which induces cell death. The effectiveness of zinc sulfophthalocyanine (ZnPcSmix) has been shown on A549 monolayers and not on MCTS. The objective of this study was to investigate whether the same pattern of cell death would be induced in lung cancer cells (A549) grown as monolayer cells compared to three dimensional multicellular tumor spheroids (MCTS) using the same laser parameters.

Materials and Methods

Commercially purchased A549 cells used in this study were cultured as monolayers and as MCTS. ZnPcSmix at different concentrations [0, 5, 10, 20, and 40 µM] was used and activated at a wavelength of 680 nm with 5 J/cm2. Lysosomal and mitochondrial damage after PDT and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production were determined by fluorescent microscopy. Changes in cellular responses were evaluated using cell morphology, viability, proliferation, cytotoxicity, and cell death analysis.

Results

Cells exposed to neither laser light nor PS, showed no changes in cell morphology, proliferation, cytotoxicity, and ROS production. However, cells treated with light activated ZnPcSmix resulted in a significant production of ROS and a dose dependant decrease in viability and proliferation as well as an increase in cell membrane damage in both monolayer and MCTSs.

Conclusion

ZnPcSmix PS used in this study induced damage to vital organelles and was effective in inducing apoptosis in lung cancer cells grown as a monolayer and MTCS through ROS production. Lasers Surg. Med. 45: 186–194, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Transfection of Mammalian Cells Using Block Copolypeptide Vesicles
Authors: Sun Victor Z. , Choe Uh‐Joo , Rodriguez April R. , Dai Howard , Deming Timothy J. , Kamei Daniel T.
Published: March 2013

An arginine‐leucine block copolypeptide (R60L20) is synthesized, which is capable of forming vesicles with controllable sizes, able to transport hydrophilic cargo across the cell membrane, and exhibit relatively low cytotoxicity. The R60L20 vesicles also possess the ability to deliver DNA into mammalian cells for transfection. Although the transfection efficiency is lower than that of the commercially available transfection agent Lipofectamine 2000, the R60L20 vesicles are able to achieve transfection with significantly lower cytotoxicity and immunogenicity. This behavior is potentially due to its stronger interaction with DNA which subsequently provides better protection against anionic heparin.

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Cocoa flavonoids improve insulin signalling and modulate glucose production via AKT and AMPK in HepG2 cells
Authors: Cordero‐Herrera Isabel , Martín María Angeles , Bravo Laura , Goya Luis , Ramos Sonia
Published: March 2013

Scope

Cocoa and (–)‐epicatechin (EC), a main cocoa flavanol, have been suggested to exert beneficial effects in diabetes, but the mechanism for their insulin‐like effects remains unknown. In this study, the modulation of insulin signalling by EC and a cocoa phenolic extract (CPE) on hepatic HepG2 cells was investigated by analysing key proteins of the insulin pathways, namely insulin receptor, insulin receptor substrate (IRS) 1 and 2, PI3K/AKT and 5′‐AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK), as well as the levels of the glucose transporter GLUT‐2 and the hepatic glucose production.

Methods and results

EC and CPE enhanced the tyrosine phosphorylation and total insulin receptor, IRS‐1 and IRS‐2 levels and activated the PI3K/AKT pathway and AMPK in HepG2 cells. CPE also enhanced the levels of GLUT‐2. Interestingly, EC and CPE modulated the expression of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase, a key protein involved in the gluconeogenesis, leading to a diminished glucose production. In addition, EC‐ and CPE‐regulated hepatic gluconeogenesis was prevented by the blockage of AKT and AMPK.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that EC and CPE strengthen the insulin signalling by activating key proteins of that pathway and regulating glucose production through AKT and AMPK modulation in HepG2 cells.
Comparative molecular field analysis and comparative molecular similarity index analysis studies on 1H NMR chemical shift of NH group of diaryl triazene derivatives
Authors: Rofouie M. K. , Salahinejad M. , Ghasemi J. B. , Aghaei A.
Published: March 2013

Comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA), comparative molecular field analysis region focusing (CoMFA‐RF) for optimizing the region for the final partial least square analysis, and comparative molecular similarity indices analysis (CoMSIA) methods were employed to develop three‐dimensional quantitative structure–activity relationship (3D‐QSAR) models of 1H NMR chemical shift of NH proton of diaryl triazene derivatives. The best orientation was searched by all‐orientation search (AOS) strategy to minimize the effect of the initial orientation of the structures. The predictive abilities of CoMFA‐RF and CoMSIA models were determined using a test set of ten compounds affording predictive correlation coefficients of 0.721 and 0.754, respectively, indicating good predictive power. For further model validation, cross validation (leave one out), progressive scrambling, and bootstrapping were also applied. The accuracy and speed of obtained 3D‐QSAR models for the prediction of 1H NMR chemical shifts of NH group of diaryl triazene derivatives were greater compared to some computational well‐known procedures. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Factors implicated in pathogenesis of urinary tract infections in neurogenic bladders: some revered, few forgotten, others ignored
Authors: Vasudeva Pawan , Madersbacher Helmut
Published: March 2013

Aims

To comprehensively review factors implicated in the pathogenesis of urinary tract infection in patients with neurogenic bladders, and to stimulate research, especially in the somewhat ignored and forgotten areas of this important clinical subject.

Methods

In addition to reviewing relevant articles on pubmed, some important articles from previous times which were not available online were also procured and reviewed.

Results

Intrinsic defence mechanisms including protective flora, anti‐adherence mechanisms, urothelial, and immunological responses to bacterial binding and the blood supply to the urinary bladder may be impaired in patients with neurogenic bladders. Further, bacterial washout mechanisms may be compromised as a result of inefficient voiding, reflux, and altered hydrokinetics. Finally, catheterization itself contributes to urinary tract infection in patients with neurogenic bladders.

Conclusions

In order to address the issue of urinary tract infection in patients with neurogenic bladders, multiple factors need to be looked into and corrected. Further research is required, especially in the area of compromised host defence mechanisms. An individualized approach, which attempts to optimize each factor is recommended. Neurourol. Urodynam. 33:95–100, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tumour necrosis factor and cancer
Authors: Waters John P , Pober Jordan S , Bradley John R
Published: March 2013

Tumour necrosis factor (TNF) was originally described as a circulating factor that can induce haemorrhagic necrosis of tumours. It is now clear that TNF has many different functions in cancer biology. In addition to causing the death of cancer cells, TNF can activate cancer cell survival and proliferation pathways, trigger inflammatory cell infiltration of tumours and promote angiogenesis and tumour cell migration and invasion. These effects can be explained by the diverse cellular responses TNF can initiate through distinct signal transduction pathways, opening the way for more selective targeting of TNF signalling in cancer therapy. Copyright © 2013 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Efficacy and toxicity of plerixafor for peripheral blood stem cell mobilization in children with high‐risk neuroblastoma
Authors: Son Meong Hi , Kang Eun Suk , Kim Dong Hwan , Lee Soo Hyun , Yoo Keon Hee , Sung Ki Woong , Koo Hong Hoe , Kim Dae Won , Kim Ju Youn , Cho Eun Joo
Published: March 2013

Six patients with high‐risk neuroblastoma underwent the second stem cell collection round with G‐CSF (5 μg/kg/day) + plerixafor (0.24 mg/kg/day) because the amount of CD34+ cells collected during the first collection round with G‐CSF alone was insufficient. The number of CD34+ cells collected in the second collection round was higher in four patients and lower in two patients than in the first collection round. Four of the six patients experienced nightmares, nyctophobia, and visual hallucinations with G‐CSF + plerixafor, which were not observed with G‐CSF alone. Our findings suggest that plerixafor needs to be used with caution in children. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013;60E57‐E59. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Acceptability of a minimally invasive perinatal/paediatric autopsy: healthcare professionals' views and implications for practice
Authors: Ben‐Sasi K. , Chitty L. S. , Franck L. S. , Thayyil S. , Judge‐Kronis L. , Taylor A. M. , Sebire N. J.
Published: March 2013

Background

Perinatal autopsy provides essential clinical information, including cause of death; yet, autopsy rates have steadily declined because of parental refusal. Technology now enables less invasive alternatives to traditional autopsy and may increase the acceptability of post‐mortem examination.

Objective

This study aimed to examine the relative acceptability among healthcare professionals of a minimally invasive autopsy (MIA; magnetic resonance imaging and laparoscopic‐guided tissue sampling), compared with standard autopsy.

Methods

This study was questionnaire‐based survey of healthcare professionals working in clinical settings where paediatric and perinatal deaths occur.

Results

Of 250 questionnaires distributed, 224 were returned (90% response rate). Autopsy was generally perceived as acceptable. Demographic factors affecting acceptability included ethnicity and religion but not professional role. MIA compared favourably with traditional autopsy, 50% of respondents reporting both equally acceptable, 40% reporting MIA more acceptable and 10% less acceptable. Healthcare professionals agreed that having a MIA option would make it easier to discuss autopsy with parents (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Less invasive autopsy appears an acceptable alternative to traditional autopsy for most respondents. Healthcare professionals should be aware that ethnic and religious opinions influence their own views on autopsy decisions and should be mindful of this when discussing autopsy with parents. Further research is needed to determine parental opinions. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative safety of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors among pediatric users with respect to adverse cardiac events
Authors: Czaja Angela S. , Valuck Robert J. , Anderson Heather D.
Published: March 2013

Purpose

This study aims to perform a comparative safety study assessing the risk of ventricular arrhythmia, cardiac arrest, or sudden death among pediatric selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) users.

Methods

Using US claims data from 1997 to 2009, new pediatric (age < 18 years) users of SSRI monotherapy were identified. Adverse cardiac outcomes occurring within 12 months of SSRI initiation were identified using a previously validated International Classification of Disease, ninth edition algorithm. Cox proportional hazard analysis was used to estimate the risk for each SSRI, using fluoxetine as the referent group, adjusting for the propensity to receive an individual SSRI, demographics, and exposure covariates.

Results

Over the study period, 113 714 subjects met the inclusion criteria and contributed 40 639 person‐years of SSRI exposure time. Sertraline (33%) and fluoxetine (29%) were the most commonly prescribed SSRIs. Forty events occurred within 12 months of SSRI initiation. The crude incidence rate was highest for escitalopram (19.5/10 000 person‐years) and lowest for fluoxetine (4.2/10 000 person‐years). The median time to event ranged from 45 to 86 days. The adjusted risk of adverse event, relative to fluoxetine, was highest for citalopram Hazard Ratio (HR) = 3.53, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.09–11.46) and escitalopram (HR = 3.30, 95%CI = 1.08–10.14) and lowest for paroxetine (HR = 1.34, 95%CI = 0.30–5.99) and sertraline (HR = 2.14, 95%CI = 0.75–6.16).

Conclusions

The incidence of adverse cardiac events among pediatric SSRI users was low. However, the risk of an adverse outcome was higher for citalopram and escitalopram users as compared with fluoxetine users. Future studies should focus on confirming these findings and identifying modifying risk factors to optimize medication selection for this population. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
2D DIGE proteomic analysis of early post mortem muscle exudate highlights the importance of the stress response for improved water‐holding capacity of fresh pork meat
Authors: Di Luca Alessio , Elia Giuliano , Hamill Ruth , Mullen Anne Maria
Published: March 2013

Variation in water‐holding capacity (WHC), which presents a major economic burden to the swine industry, is considered to be underpinned by variation at a molecular and biochemical level. High‐resolution 2D DIGE followed by MS analysis and Western blot were used to unravel the proteome of muscle exudate, collected following centrifugation, in the pH 4–7 range. A first 2DE‐based protein map of this substrate was produced where 89 spots were successfully characterised. Two phenotypes divergent for WHC plus one intermediate were compared with a view to deciphering the biochemical processes impacting on variation in WHC. Twenty spots were observed to be altered across the phenotypes. Of these, 14 represented sixteen proteins including metabolic enzymes, stress response proteins and structural proteins. Triosephosphate isomerase and transferrin showed a major difference between the two extreme phenotypes, and may have potential as biological markers for WHC prediction. Several members of the HSPs family were highlighted. This proteomic study makes an important contribution towards a more detailed molecular view of the processes behind WHC and will provide a valuable resource for future investigations.
Library dependent LC‐MS/MS acquisition via mzAPI/Live
Authors: Webber James T. , Askenazi Manor , Ficarro Scott B. , Iglehart Max A. , Marto Jarrod A.
Published: March 2013

The use of MS for characterization of small molecules, nucleotides, and proteins in model organisms as well as primary tissues and clinical samples continues to proliferate at a rapid pace. The complexity and dynamic range of target analytes in biological systems hinders comprehensive analysis and simultaneously drives improvements in instrument hardware and software. As a result, state‐of‐the‐art commercial mass spectrometers are equipped with sophisticated embedded control systems that provide robust acquisition methods accessed through intuitive graphical interfaces. Although optimized for speed, these preconfigured scan functions are otherwise closed to end‐user customization beyond simple, analytical‐centric parameters supplied by the manufacturer. Here, we present an open‐source framework (mzAPI/Live) that enables users to generate arbitrarily complex LC‐MSn acquisition methods via simple Python scripting. As a powerful proof‐of‐concept, we demonstrate real‐time assignment of tandem mass spectra through rapid query of NIST peptide libraries. This represents an unprecedented capability to make acquisition decisions based on knowledge of analyte structures determined during the run itself, thus providing a path toward biology‐driven MS data acquisition for the broader community.
Mycobacterium abscessus complex lung infection in a toddler with a Tracheostomy
Authors: Iwanaga Kensho , Carter Edward R.
Published: March 2013

Mycobacterium abscessus complex and other non‐tuberculous mycobacteria are infrequently encountered respiratory pathogens in patients with tracheostomies. We report a 4‐year‐old girl with a tracheostomy, placed during infancy for management of severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia and laryngeal stenosis, who developed a M. abscessus complex lung infection. There was clear evidence of parenchymal involvement and true infection beyond colonization. She demonstrated dramatic clinical, laboratory, and radiographic improvement after prolonged anti‐mycobacterial therapy. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2014; 49:296–298. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
GMC: more detailed advice on good practice in prescribing
Authors: Chaplin Steve
Published: March 2013

Steve Chaplin summarises the GMC's latest advice on how to comply with the principles set out in their Good Medical Practice.
Synthesis and characterization of Al–Mg–Zn thin film alloys co‐deposited from vapour phase
Authors: Voith Michael , Mardare Andrei I. , Hassel Achim Walter
Published: March 2013

Mg–Zn thin film alloys were produced by thermal co‐evaporation using single source and dual source geometries. The films containing high amount of Zn (66 at.%) were prone to formation of metallic micro spheres on the surface when high evaporation rates (10 nm s−1) were used. The Mg–27.1 at.% Zn bulk alloy was found to be suitable for co‐deposition with Al for producing Al–Mg–Zn thin film alloys. A low Al concentration gradient (5 at.%) could be obtained along the sample due to the high deposition rates of Mg–Zn (7.5 nm s−1) combined with low Al deposition rates (0.2 nm s−1). The Al–Mg–Zn thin films showed an improved resistance against chemical attack when higher amounts of Al are used, as shown by downstream analytics investigations using a flat flow electrochemical cell coupled to an AAS system.
Ultralow electron mobility of an individual Cu‐doped ZnO nanowire
Authors: Jia Xiaokai , Xu Hongjun , Gao Jingyun , Jia Xiaoning , Zhu Huichao , Yu Dapeng
Published: March 2013

In this work, we synthesized Cu‐doped ZnO nanowires through a vapor–liquid–solid process. We investigated their composition and photoluminescence properties; and we found the Cu‐doped ZnO nanowires have a c‐axis preferential growth direction, uniform Cu distribution and a characteristic spectrum. We further investigated their electrical property by fabricating a simple field effect transistor based on an individual C‐shaped Cu‐doped ZnO nanowire. The electrical studies reveal that the Cu‐doped ZnO nanowire has n‐type conductivity and ultralow electron mobility.
Quantum criticality in the two‐channel pseudogap Anderson model: A test of the non‐crossing approximation
Authors: Zamani Farzaneh , Chowdhury Tathagata , Ribeiro Pedro , Ingersent Kevin , Kirchner Stefan
Published: March 2013

We investigate the dynamical properties of the two‐channel Anderson model using the non‐crossing approximation (NCA) supplemented by numerical renormalization group (NRG) calculations. We provide evidence supporting the conventional wisdom that the NCA gives reliable results for the standard two‐channel Anderson model of a magnetic impurity in a metal. We extend the analysis to the pseudogap two‐channel model describing a semi‐metallic host with a density of states that vanishes in power‐law fashion at the Fermi energy. This model exhibits continuous quantum phase transitions between weak‐ and strong‐coupling phases. The NCA is shown to reproduce the correct qualitative features of the pseudogap model, including the phase diagram, and to yield critical exponents in excellent agreement with the NRG and exact results. The forms of the dynamical magnetic susceptibility and impurity Green's function at the fixed points are suggestive of frequency‐over‐temperature scaling.
Possible mechanism of Ag photodiffusion in a‐As2S3 thin films
Authors: Sava Florinel , Popescu Mihai , Lőrinczi Adam , Velea Alin
Published: March 2013

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Monitoring the silver photodiffusion in thin amorphous As2S3 film is addressed with a new experimental setup. A possible photo‐diffusion mechanism of silver into the a‐As2S3 thin film under green laser diode light (λ = 532 nm) irradiation is proposed. The proposed mechanism is based on a gradual filling of the structural voids existing in the network of the thin chalcogenide layer. This mechanism is supported by XRD measurements, optical absorption, and modeling data.
High‐density remote plasma sputtering of high‐dielectric‐constant amorphous hafnium oxide films
Authors: Li Flora M. , Bayer Bernhard C. , Hofmann Stephan , Speakman Stuart P. , Ducati Caterina , Milne William I. , Flewitt Andrew J.
Published: March 2013

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Hafnium oxide (HfOx) is a high dielectric constant (k) oxide which has been identified as being suitable for use as the gate dielectric in thin film transistors (TFTs). Amorphous materials are preferred for a gate dielectric, but it has been an ongoing challenge to produce amorphous HfOx while maintaining a high dielectric constant. A technique called high target utilization sputtering (HiTUS) is demonstrated to be capable of depositing high‐k amorphous HfOx thin films at room temperature. The plasma is generated in a remote chamber, allowing higher rate deposition of films with minimal ion damage. Compared to a conventional sputtering system, the HiTUS technique allows finer control of the thin film microstructure. Using a conventional reactive rf magnetron sputtering technique, monoclinic nanocrystalline HfOx thin films have been deposited at a rate of ∼1.6 nm min−1 at room temperature, with a resistivity of 1013 Ω cm, a breakdown strength of 3.5 MV cm−1 and a dielectric constant of ∼18.2. By comparison, using the HiTUS process, amorphous HfOx (x = 2.1) thin films which appear to have a cubic‐like short‐range order have been deposited at a high deposition rate of ∼25 nm min−1 with a high resistivity of 1014 Ω cm, a breakdown strength of 3 MV cm−1 and a high dielectric constant of ∼30. Two key conditions must be satisfied in the HiTUS system for high‐k HfOx to be produced. Firstly, the correct oxygen flow rate is required for a given sputtering rate from the metallic target. Secondly, there must be an absence of energetic oxygen ion bombardment to maintain an amorphous microstructure and a high flux of medium energy species emitted from the metallic sputtering target to induce a cubic‐like short range order. This HfOx is very attractive as a dielectric material for large‐area electronic applications on flexible substrates.
Enhanced Mechanical Properties of Epoxy Nanocomposites by Mixing Noncovalently Functionalized Boron Nitride Nanoflakes
Authors: Lee Dongju , Song Sung Ho , Hwang Jaewon , Jin Sung Hwan , Park Kwang Hyun , Kim Bo Hyun , Hong Soon Hyung , Jeon Seokwoo
Published: March 2013

The influence of surface modifications on the mechanical properties of epoxy‐hexagonal boron nitride nanoflake (BNNF) nanocomposites is investigated. Homogeneous distributions of boron nitride nanoflakes in a polymer matrix, preserving intrinsic material properties of boron nitride nanoflakes, is the key to successful composite applications. Here, a method is suggested to obtain noncovalently functionalized BNNFs with 1‐pyrenebutyric acid (PBA) molecules and to synthesize epoxy–BNNF nanocomposites with enhanced mechanical properties. The incorporation of noncovalently functionalized BNNFs into epoxy resin yields an elastic modulus of 3.34 GPa, and 71.9 MPa ultimate tensile strength at 0.3 wt%. The toughening enhancement is as high as 107% compared to the value of neat epoxy. The creep strain and the creep compliance of the noncovalently functionalized BNNF nanocomposite is significantly less than the neat epoxy and the nonfunctionalized BNNF nanocomposite. Noncovalent functionalization of BNNFs is effective to increase mechanical properties by strong affinity between the fillers and the matrix.
Spatiotemporal evolution of brittle normal faulting and fluid infiltration in detachment fault systems: A case study from the Menderes Massif, western Turkey
Authors: Hetzel Ralf , Zwingmann Horst , Mulch Andreas , Gessner Klaus , Akal Cüneyt , Hampel Andrea , Güngör Talip , Petschick Rainer , Mikes Tamás , Wedin Francis
Published: March 2013

K‐Ar dating of fault rocks coupled with hydrogen isotope analysis allows constraining the timing of brittle faulting and the influx of meteoric fluids into such fault systems. Here we apply this approach to resolve the spatiotemporal activity of three detachment‐fault systems in western Turkey and to evaluate how deep meteoric fluids infiltrated these fault systems. K‐Ar ages of cataclasites and gouges from two detachment fault systems that accomplished the bivergent extension of the central Menderes Massif suggest diachronous brittle deformation. The Büyük Menderes detachment in the south was already active at ~22 Ma, whereas the earliest brittle deformation recorded at the Gediz fault system in the north occurred at ~9 Ma. K‐Ar ages of secondary and splay faults indicate that both fault systems continued to be active until 4–3 Ma—consistent with rapid Pliocene cooling inferred from published thermochronological data. In the northern Menderes Massif, the boundary fault of the Simav graben became active at 17–16 Ma, after the end of faulting on the Simav detachment. Hydrogen isotope (δD) values of −109‰ to −87‰ for fault gouges, cataclasites, and mylonites document that meteoric fluids infiltrated the upper crustal normal faults and penetrated into the detachments and the uppermost levels of their mylonitic footwalls. This explains the ubiquitous retrogression of biotite to chlorite in extensional shear zones and the growth of chlorite in detachment‐related cataclasites. Our results document that brittle normal faults were active over ~20 Ma of the extensional history and provided effective pathways for meteoric fluids.
A risk‐based probabilistic framework to estimate the endpoint of remediation: Concentration rebound by rate‐limited mass transfer
Authors: de Barros F. P. J. , Fernàndez‐Garcia D. , Bolster D. , Sanchez‐Vila X.
Published: March 2013

Key Points

Addresses rebound concentrations in risk‐based framework.

Fully analytical solutions are developed.

Rebound concentration uncertainty
Nonlinear Regime-Switching State-Space (RSSS) Models
Authors: Chow Sy-Miin , Zhang Guangjian
Published: March 2013

Nonlinear dynamic factor analysis models extend standard linear dynamic factor analysis models by allowing time series processes to be nonlinear at the latent level (e.g., involving interaction between two latent processes). In practice, it is often of interest to identify the phases—namely, latent “regimes” or classes—during which a system is characterized by distinctly different dynamics. We propose a new class of models, termed nonlinear regime-switching state-space (RSSS) models, which subsumes regime-switching nonlinear dynamic factor analysis models as a special case. In nonlinear RSSS models, the change processes within regimes, represented using a state-space model, are allowed to be nonlinear. An estimation procedure obtained by combining the extended Kalman filter and the Kim filter is proposed as a way to estimate nonlinear RSSS models. We illustrate the utility of nonlinear RSSS models by fitting a nonlinear dynamic factor analysis model with regime-specific cross-regression parameters to a set of experience sampling affect data. The parallels between nonlinear RSSS models and other well-known discrete change models in the literature are discussed briefly.
Comparative Analysis of Rhamnolipids from Novel Environmental Isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Rikalovic Milena G. , Abdel‐Mawgoud Ahmad Mohammad , Déziel Eric , Gojgic‐Cvijovic Gordana Dj. , Nestorovic Zorica , Vrvic Miroslav M. , Karadzic Ivanka M.
Published: March 2013

A comparative analysis of rhamnolipids from environmental isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was undertaken to evaluate strain‐specific rhamnolipid fingerprints obtained under different growth conditions. Environmental isolates of P. aeruginosa produced rhamnolipids on different types of substrates, including cheap and renewable sources like sunflower oil from deep fryers and sunflower oil mill effluent. Rhamnolipids were monitored by high‐performance liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization interface mass spectrometry, which allowed fast and reliable identification and quantification of the congeners present. The highest concentration of total rhamnolipids of 3.33 g/l was obtained by the strain P. aeruginosa 67, recovered from petroleum contaminated soil, and strains D1 (1.73 g/l) and D2 (1.70 g/l), recovered from natural microbial consortia originated from mazut‐contaminated soil, grown on sunflower oil as a carbon source. Di‐ to mono‐rhamnolipids ratios were in the range of 0.90–5.39 for different media composition and from 1.12 to 4.17 for different producing strains. Rhamnolipid profiles of purified mixtures of all tested strains are similar with chain length from C8–C12, pronounced abundance of Rha–C10–C10 and Rha–Rha–C10–C10 congeners, and a low content of 3‐(3‐hydroxyalkanoyloxy)‐alkanoic acids. Concentrations of major congeners of RLs were found to slightly vary, depending on strain and growth conditions, while variations in minor congeners were more pronounced. Statistically significant increase of critical micelle concentration values was observed with lowering the ratio of total mono‐ to di‐rhamnolipids ratio indicating that mono‐rhamnolipids start to form micelles at lower concentration than di‐rhamnolipids.
Effect of UV Processing Treatments on Soy Oil Conjugated Linoleic Acid Yields and Tocopherols Stability
Authors: Yettella Ramesh R. , Henbest Brooke , Proctor Andrew
Published: March 2013

Photoirradiation has been used to synthesize 20 % conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) in soy oil with an iodine catalyst. CLA yields are affected by ultraviolet (UV) irradiation time, Magnesol® adsorbent treatment, iodine concentration and mixed tocopherols. However, these factors in combination had not been studied. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to determine the effect of (1) a combination of photoirradiation time, Magnesol® adsorbent treatment and added mixed soy tocopherols on CLA yields and the oxidative stability of CLA‐rich soy oil, (2) UV light on mixed tocopherol stability, as tocopherols enhance CLA yields during photoirradiation. Soy oil was initially treated with 5 % Magnesol®. Iodine at 0 and 0.35 % was mixed with Magnesol®‐treated soy oil and irradiated for 12 and 6 h. The irradiated oil was again treated with Magnesol®, mixed with 0, 0.35 or 0.175 % iodine; 1400 MT and irradiated for 12 or 6 more hours. CLA content in soy oil was determined by conventional gas chromatography‐flame ionization detector. The oxidative stability of the oil was determined by measuring peroxide value (PV). The tocopherols stability was determined by high performance liquid chromatography. The results showed that increasing photoirradiation time increased CLA yields and lowered PV. Magnesol® adsorption produced highest CLA yield for all treatments by removing peroxides in RBD soy oil. The γ‐tocopherols exhibited highest stability during UV irradiation. The order of tocopherol degradation was α‐tocopherol > δ‐tocopherol > γ‐tocopherols.
Maternal exercise during pregnancy ameliorates the postnatal neuronal impairments induced by prenatal restraint stress in mice
Authors: Bustamante Carlos , Henríquez Ricardo , Medina Felipe , Reinoso Carmen , Vargas Ronald , Pascual Rodrigo
Published: March 2013

Clinical and preclinical studies have demonstrated that prenatal stress (PS) induces neuronal and behavioral disturbances in the offspring. In the present study, we determined whether maternal voluntary wheel running (VWR) during pregnancy could reverse the putative deleterious effects of PS on the neurodevelopment and behavior of the offspring. Pregnant CF‐1 mice were randomly assigned to control, restraint stressed or restraint stressed + VWR groups. Dams of the stressed group were subjected to restraint stress between gestational days 14 and delivery, while control pregnant dams remained undisturbed in their home cages. Dams of the restraint stressed + VWR group were subjected to exercise between gestational days 1 and 17. On postnatal day 23 (P23), male pups were assigned to one of the following experimental groups: mice born from control dams, stressed dams or stressed + VWR dams. Locomotor behavior and pyramidal neuronal morphology were evaluated at P23. Animals were then sacrificed, and Golgi‐impregnated pyramidal neurons of the parietal cortex were morphometrically analyzed. Here, we present two major findings: first, PS produced significantly diminished dendritic growth of parietal neurons without altered locomotor behavior of the offspring; and second, maternal VWR significantly offset morphological impairments.
The trailing vorticity field behind a line source in two-dimensional incompressible linear shear flow
Authors: Rienstra Sjoerd W. , Darau Mirela , Brambley Edward J.
Published: March 2013

The explicit exact analytic solution for harmonic perturbations from a line mass source in an incompressible inviscid two-dimensional linear shear is derived using a Fourier transform method. The two cases of an infinite shear flow and a semi-infinite shear flow over an impedance boundary are considered. For the free-field and hard-wall configurations, the pressure field is (in general) logarithmically diverging and its Fourier representation involves a diverging integral that is interpreted as an integral of generalized functions; this divergent behaviour is not present for a finite impedance boundary or if the frequency equals the mean flow shear rate. The dominant feature of the solution is the hydrodynamic wake caused by the shed vorticity of the source. For linear shear over an impedance boundary, in addition to the wake, (at most) two surface modes along the wall are excited. The implications for duct acoustics with flow over an impedance wall are discussed.
Electrolyte-free milk protein solution influences sodium and fluid retention in rats
Authors: Ishihara Kengo , Kato Yoshiho , Usami Ayako , Yamada Mari , Yamamura Asuka , Fushiki Tohru , Seyama Yousuke
Published: March 2013

Milk is an effective post-exercise rehydration drink that maintains the net positive fluid balance. However, it is unclear which components are responsible for this effect. We assessed the effect of milk protein solution (MPS) obtained by dialysis on body fluid retention. Milk, MPS, milk electrolyte solution (MES), sports drink and water were administered to male Wistar rats at a dose of 6 ml/rat after treadmill exercise. Total body fluid retention was assessed by urine volume 4 h after administration of hydrating liquids. The rate of gastric emptying was evaluated by a tracer method using 13C-labelled acetate. Plasma osmolality, Na and K levels, and urinary Na and K were measured by HPLC and osmometry, respectively. The gastric emptying rate was not delayed by MPS. During 4 h of rehydration, cumulative urine volumes differed significantly between treatment groups (P < 0·05) with 4·9, 2·2 and 3·4 ml from water-, milk- and MPS-fed rats, respectively. Thus, MPS elicited 50 % of the total body fluid retention of milk. Plasma aldosterone levels were significantly higher in MPS- and milk-fed rats compared with water-fed rats. Plasma osmolality was maintained at higher levels in MPS-fed rats than in water- and MES-fed rats (P < 0·05). Cumulative urine Na excretion was also suppressed in the milk- and MPS-fed groups compared with the MES-fed group. Our results demonstrate that MPS obtained by dialysis clearly affects net body water balance without affecting gastric emptying after exercise. This effect was attributed to retention of Na and water, and maintenance of plasma osmolality.
Maternal long-chain PUFA supplementation during protein deficiency improves brain fatty acid accretion in rat pups by altering the milk fatty acid composition of the dam
Authors: Ranade Prachi S. , Rao Shobha S.
Published: March 2013

Long-chain PUFA (LC-PUFA) are important for fetal and neonatal brain development. However, their accretion in the brain is compromised during maternal protein restriction. Hence, we investigated the effect of maternal supplementation withn-3 DHA plusn-6 arachidonic acid (ARA) at a low protein level (9 %) on offspring brain fatty acid accretion using Wistar rats (nine rats per group) randomly fed a control (C), a low-protein (LP) or a low-protein DHA + ARA-supplemented (LPS) diet during gestation and lactation. At birth, pups from the LPS group had the highest brain DHA andn-3 fatty acid levels (P = 0·001), whereas pups from the LP group had the highest MUFA (P = 0·05) but the lowest DHA and totaln-3 PUFA levels (P = 0·000). During lactation, pups from the LPS group accrued significantly more α-linolenic acid (P = 0·003), EPA (P = 0·02) and DHA (P = 0·000) in brain lipids than pups from the LP group, whereas brain lipids of pups from the LP group had markedly increased levels of then-3 deficiency marker docosapentaenoic acid andn-6:n-3 ratio (P = 0·000). Owing to supplementation, milk from LPS dams had the highest DHA and ARA, but lower SCFA and medium-chain fatty acids as compared with milk from C and LP dams during early lactation, but normalised by mid-lactation. To conclude, adverse effects of restricted maternal protein intake on LC-PUFA accretion in the brain of offspring were ameliorated by alterations in maternal milk fatty acid profile due to supplementation. Results underscore the importance of LC-PUFA for protein-deficient mothers during gestation as well as lactation to achieve the optimum brain LC-PUFA status of progeny.
Gluten intake in 6–36-month-old Danish infants and children based on a national survey
Authors: Hoppe Camilla , Trolle Ellen , Gondolf Ulla H. , Husby Steffen
Published: March 2013

Coeliac disease (CD) affects about 1 % of the general population. Information concerning gluten intake in the general population is scarce. In particular, variation in gluten intake during the complementary feeding period may be an independent risk factor in CD pathogenesis. We determined the intake of gluten from wheat, barley, rye and oats in a cross-sectional National Danish Survey of Dietary Habits among Infants and Young Children (2006–2007). The study population comprised a random sample of 1743 children aged 6–36 months, recruited from the National Danish Civil Registry. The protein contents from wheat, rye, barley and oats were found in the National Danish Food Composition Table, and multiplied with the amounts in the recipes. The amounts of gluten were calculated as the amount of cereal protein × 0·80 for wheat and oats, ×0·65 for rye and ×0·50 for barley. Dietary intake was recorded daily for seven consecutive days in pre-coded food records supplemented with open-answer possibilities. Gluten intake increased with age (P < 0·0001). Oats were introduced first, rapidly outpaced by wheat, the intake of which continued to increase with age, whereas oats started to decrease at 12 months. Boys had a higher intake of energy (P ≤ 0·0001) and all types of gluten, except for barley (P ≤ 0·87). In 8–10-month-old (P < 0·0001) and 10–12-month-old (P = 0·007), but not in 6–8-month-old infants (P = 0·331), non-breast-fed infants had higher total gluten intake than partially breast-fed infants. In conclusion, this study presents representative population-based data on gluten intake in Danish infants and young children.
Teacher Assistant Supports in Inclusive Schools: Research, Practices and Alternatives
Authors: Giangreco Michael F.
Published: March 2013

In this article, I summarise the primary content included in a keynote address I delivered via videoconferencing in July 2012 at the national conference of theAustralian Association of Special Education, held jointly with the annual conference of theTasmanian Principals Associationin Hobart, Tasmania. The address focused on three major topics pertaining to the utilisation of teacher assistants in inclusive schools: (a) persistent and emerging research trends, (b) contemporary conceptual and data-based concerns, and (c) ideas about what schools can do to provide improved educational opportunities and supports for students with special educational needs in inclusive classrooms. The article concludes that the potential overuse or misuse of teacher assistants is a symptom, not cause. Building integrated models of general and special service delivery in schools can address the challenges associated with questionable teacher assistant utilisation.
Identification of biomarkers for intake of protein from meat, dairy products and grains: a controlled dietary intervention study
Authors: Altorf-van der Kuil Wieke , Brink Elizabeth J. , Boetje Martine , Siebelink Els , Bijlsma Sabina , Engberink Marielle F. , Veer Pieter van 't , Tomé Daniel , Bakker Stephan J. L. , van Baak Marleen A. , Geleijnse Johanna M.
Published: March 2013

In the present controlled, randomised, multiple cross-over dietary intervention study, we aimed to identify potential biomarkers for dietary protein from dairy products, meat and grain, which could be useful to estimate intake of these protein types in epidemiological studies. After 9 d run-in, thirty men and seventeen women (22 (sd4) years) received three high-protein diets (aimed at approximately 18 % of energy (en%)) in random order for 1 week each, with approximately 14 en% originating from either meat, dairy products or grain. We used a two-step approach to identify biomarkers in urine and plasma. With principal component discriminant analysis, we identified amino acids (AA) from the plasma or urinary AA profile that were distinctive between diets. Subsequently, after pooling total study data, we applied mixed models to estimate the predictive value of those AA for intake of protein types. A very good prediction could be made for the intake of meat protein by a regression model that included urinary carnosine, 1-methylhistidine and 3-methylhistidine (98 % of variation in intake explained). Furthermore, for dietary grain protein, a model that included seven AA (plasma lysine, valine, threonine, α-aminobutyric acid, proline, ornithine and arginine) made a good prediction (75 % of variation explained). We could not identify biomarkers for dairy protein intake. In conclusion, specific combinations of urinary and plasma AA may be potentially useful biomarkers for meat and grain protein intake, respectively. These findings need to be cross-validated in other dietary intervention studies.