bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rhamnetin Is a Potent Inhibitor of Extracellular Signal‐regulated Kinase 1 and c‐Jun N‐Terminal Kinase 1
Authors: Jnawali Hum Nath , Jeon Dasom , Park Young‐Gun , Lee Eunjung , Heo Yong‐Seok , Kim Yangmee
Published: July 2015

Rhamnetin is a flavonoid found in cloves and vegetables. Previously, we found that rhamnetin showed anti‐inflammatory activity in lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated RAW264.7 cells, mediated by actions on mitogen‐activated protein kinases pathways. Here, we investigated interactions between extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1 (ERK1) and rhamnetin. Based on docking study, we propose a binding model of rhamnetin and ERK1, where the 4′‐hydroxyl groups of the B‐ring and the 5‐hydroxyl group of the A‐ring of rhamnetin play key roles. In a fluorescence quenching experiment, rhamnetin exhibited high binding affinity to ERK1. We found that rhamnetin has an IC50
value similar to that of the ERK1 inhibitor U0126 in ERK1 kinase assays, as well as to that of the JNK1 inhibitor SP600125 in JNK1 kinase assays. These results imply that rhamnetin may be a candidate inhibitor of ERK1 and JNK1, with potent anti‐inflammatory activity.
Orthogonal Functionalization of Ferritin via Supramolecular Re‐Assembly
Authors: Spa Silvia J. , Bunschoten Anton , Rood Marcus T. M. , Peters Ruud J. B. , Koster Abraham J. , van Leeuwen Fijs W. B.
Published: July 2015

To investigate if the degree of functionalization of ferritin could be controlled using a supramolecular self‐assembly process, two photophysical separable batches of ferritin were created by functionalizing ferritin capsids with either Cy3‐ or Cy5‐dye (loading rate of about 50 %). After dis‐assembly, Cy3‐, Cy5‐ as well as non‐functionalized ferritin subunits were mixed in variable ratios. Photophysical measurements revealed that the ratio in which the subunits were mixed was indeed indicative for the ratios in which the functionalized subunits were observed in the re‐assembled capsids. During re‐assembly, however, a slight preference for the inclusion of non‐functionalized subunits was observed, indicating the reactivity decreased following functionalization. The iron biomineralization properties of ferritin were retained by the multi‐functionalized capsids as FeII diffused rapidly inside making it visible by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). These combined data indicate that it is possible to functionalize ferritin in an orthogonal manner using the supramolecular interaction between ferritin subunits.
An intermediary enhances out‐group trust and in‐group profit expectation of Chinese but not Australians
Authors: Ye Jiawen , Ng Sik Hung
Published: July 2015

In this research, we made a theoretical distinction between direct and intermediary‐mediated trust situations, and conducted a cross‐cultural (Chinese vs. Australians) investment trust game to test the overlooked effects of an intermediary on investors' trust decisions, with respect to how much to invest in and expect from trustees. Compared to situations of direct trust, a nominal intermediary increased the number of Chinese investors expecting in‐group trustees to repay a profit on their investments (Hypothesis 1) and raised their level of investment in out‐group trustees (Hypothesis 2). These results applied to Chinese, but not Australians in support of the proposal that a nominal intermediary would serve as a cue to activate different cultural stereotypes of the functions and meanings of an intermediary with respect to trust and expectation of reciprocity. Coexisting with these culture‐specific effects of an intermediary, the minimal categorisation of people into in‐group and out‐group on trivial grounds leads to a highly significant in‐group favouritism in investment levels of both Chinese and Australians (Hypothesis 3).
Synthesis, Characterization, and Anticancer Activities of Pyrogallol‐Based Arylspiroborates
Authors: Cormier Kevin , Curry R. Daniel , Betsch Mitchel P. , Goguen Jeremy A. , Vogels Christopher M. , Decken Andreas , Turcotte Sandra , Westcott Stephen A.
Published: July 2015

Arylspiroborate salts derived from pyrogallol, gallic acid, and propyl gallate have been prepared and characterized fully, including an X‐ray diffraction study for the tetrabutylammonium gallic acid complex 4. The tetrabutylammonium salts were examined for their potential anticancer activities against renal cell carcinoma (RCC) cell lines, using NBu4[Bcat2] (cat = catecholato) as a control.
Synapsin knockdown is associated with decreased neurite outgrowth, functional synaptogenesis impairment, and fast high‐frequency neurotransmitter release
Authors: Brenes Oscar , Giachello Carlo Natale Giuseppe , Corradi Anna Margherita , Ghirardi Mirella , Montarolo Pier Giorgio
Published: July 2015

Synapsins (Syns) are an evolutionarily conserved family of synaptic vesicle‐associated proteins related to fine tuning of synaptic transmission. Studies with mammals have partially clarified the different roles of Syns; however, the presence of different genes and isoforms and the development of compensatory mechanisms hinder accurate data interpretation. Here, we use a simple in vitro monosynaptic Helix neuron connection, reproducing an in vivo physiological connection as a reliable experimental model to investigate the effects of Syn knockdown. Cells overexpressing an antisense construct against Helix Syn showed a time‐dependent decrease of Syn immunostaining, confirming protein loss. At the morphological level, Syn‐silenced cells showed a reduction in neurite linear outgrowth and branching and in the size and number of synaptic varicosities. Functionally, Syn‐silenced cells presented a reduced ability to form synaptic connections; however, functional chemical synapses showed similar basal excitatory postsynaptic potentials and similar short‐term plasticity paradigms. In addition, Syn‐silenced cells presented faster neurotransmitter release and decreased postsynaptic response toward the end of long tetanic presynaptic stimulations, probably related to an impairment of the synaptic vesicle trafficking resulting from a different vesicle handling, with an increased readily releasable pool and a compromised reserve pool. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Exploring the Properties of Genetically Engineered Silk‐Elastin‐Like Protein Films
Authors: Machado Raul , da Costa André , Sencadas Vitor , Pereira Ana Margarida , Collins Tony , Rodríguez‐Cabello José Carlos , Lanceros‐Méndez Senentxu , Casal Margarida
Published: July 2015

Free standing films of a genetically engineered silk‐elastin‐like protein (SELP) were prepared using water and formic acid as solvents. Exposure to methanol‐saturated air promoted the formation of aggregated β‐strands rendering aqueous insolubility and improved the mechanical properties leading to a 10‐fold increase in strain‐to‐failure. The films were optically clear with resistivity values similar to natural rubber and thermally stable up to 180 °C. Addition of glycerol showed to enhance the flexibility of SELP/glycerol films by interacting with SELP molecules through hydrogen bonding, interpenetrating between the polymer chains and granting more conformational freedom. This detailed characterization provides cues for future and unique applications using SELP based biopolymers.
Bias and precision of measures of survival gain from right‐censored data
Authors: Lamb Karen E. , Williamson Elizabeth J. , Coory Michael , Carlin John B.
Published: July 2015

In cost‐effectiveness analyses of drugs or health technologies, estimates of life years saved or quality‐adjusted life years saved are required. Randomised controlled trials can provide an estimate of the average treatment effect; for survival data, the treatment effect is the difference in mean survival. However, typically not all patients will have reached the endpoint of interest at the close‐out of a trial, making it difficult to estimate the difference in mean survival. In this situation, it is common to report the more readily estimable difference in median survival. Alternative approaches to estimating the mean have also been proposed. We conducted a simulation study to investigate the bias and precision of the three most commonly used sample measures of absolute survival gain – difference in median, restricted mean and extended mean survival – when used as estimates of the true mean difference, under different censoring proportions, while assuming a range of survival patterns, represented by Weibull survival distributions with constant, increasing and decreasing hazards. Our study showed that the three commonly used methods tended to underestimate the true treatment effect; consequently, the incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio (ICER) would be overestimated. Of the three methods, the least biased is the extended mean survival, which perhaps should be used as the point estimate of the treatment effect to be inputted into the ICER, while the other two approaches could be used in sensitivity analyses. More work on the trade‐offs between simple extrapolation using the exponential distribution and more complicated extrapolation using other methods would be valuable. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of a 5 MW reference gearbox for offshore wind turbines
Authors: Nejad Amir Rasekhi , Guo Yi , Gao Zhen , Moan Torgeir
Published: July 2015

This paper presents detailed descriptions, modeling parameters and technical data of a 5MW high‐speed gearbox developed for the National Renewable Energy Laboratory offshore 5MW baseline wind turbine. The main aim of this paper is to support the concept studies and research for large offshore wind turbines by providing a baseline gearbox model with detailed modeling parameters. This baseline gearbox follows the most conventional design types of those used in wind turbines. It is based on the four‐point supports: two main bearings and two torque arms. The gearbox consists of three stages: two planetary and one parallel stage gears. The gear ratios among the stages are calculated in a way to obtain the minimum gearbox weight. The gearbox components are designed and selected based on the offshore wind turbine design codes and validated by comparison to the data available from large offshore wind turbine prototypes. All parameters required to establish the dynamic model of the gearbox are then provided. Moreover, a maintenance map indicating components with high to low probability of failure is shown. The 5 MW reference gearbox can be used as a baseline for research on wind turbine gearboxes and comparison studies. It can also be employed in global analysis tools to represent a more realistic model of a gearbox in a coupled analysis. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tobacco Use Among Healthcare Workers: Impact of a Worksite Policy Change at a US Military Community Hospital
Authors: Ryan Margaret , Romero Devan , Tolentino Jerlyn , Hammett Ian , Robins Danielle , Volden Jonathan , Pulvers Kim
Published: July 2015

Introductions:Healthcare workers use less tobacco than other working populations. In contrast, US military members use more tobacco than civilians. Military healthcare workers, therefore, represent a unique group with regard to occupational factors that may influence tobacco use.

Aims/Methods:Records of workers at a military community hospital were reviewed to describe tobacco use. An anonymous survey assessed impressions of a worksite policy change that prohibited tobacco use anywhere on hospital grounds.

Results:Hospital staff included 2,074 professionals. Tobacco use was significantly associated with male sex and being a military enlisted worker. In fact, 37% of male enlisted members used tobacco; fewer than 10% of all other workers used tobacco. Among 232 survey respondents, 61% agreed with tobacco-restrictive worksite policies, but only 33% thought policies were effective. Nearly one-third of tobacco users reported decreasing use in the past year. In multivariable modelling, changing habits in response to worksite policy was the only factor significantly associated with decreased tobacco use.

Conclusions:Tobacco use among US military healthcare workers varies markedly by demographic characteristics. Male, military enlisted workers use tobacco at very high rates, paralleling the troops they serve. Implementation of tobacco-restrictive worksite policies is associated with decreased tobacco use in this population.
Morphological responses of wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) roots to phosphorus supply in two contrasting soils
Authors: YUAN H. M. , BLACKWELL M. , MCGRATH S. , GEORGE T. S. , GRANGER S. H. , HAWKINS J. M. B. , DUNHAM S. , SHEN J. B.
Published: July 2015

To cope with phosphorus (P) deficiency, plants adapt root morphology to enhance inorganic P (Pi) acquisition from soil by allocating more biomass to roots, but whether the responses can be modified across gradients of P supply is not fully understood. The present study examined changes in root-length density (RLD), root-hair density (RHD) and root-hair length (RHL) of wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) in two contrasting soils, the Rough and Barnfield soils. Wheat plants were grown for 3 weeks in thin-plate rhizotrons in two soils with additions of 0, 10, 25, 50, 100 and 200 mg P/kg soil. Contrary to published literature, as P additions increased it was observed that a concomitant increase in RHL (250 to 1054 µmin the Rough soil and 303–1075 µmin the Barnfield soil) and RHD (57 to 122/mm in the Rough soil and 56–120/mm in the Barnfield soil), while RLD generally decreased (2480–1130 cm/cm3in the Rough soil and 1716–865 cm/cm3in the Barnfield soil). The levels of added P that resulted in critical P concentrations in the soils enabling maximum shoot biomass production were 50 mg/kg P in the Rough soil and 100 mg/kg P in the Barnfield soil, and these additions influenced root morphological changes. Under severe P deficiency, P supply increased RHL and RHD, but RLD was decreased. Improvement in lateral root and root-hair responses in wheat at extreme P deficiency may be a worthy target for breeding more sustainable genotypes for future agroecosystems.
Utility of current sialendoscopes in the sinonasal cavity
Authors: Kieliszak C R , Khoury T R , Singh A , Joshi A S
Published: July 2015

Objectives:

This study assessed the utility of current sialendoscopes in the paranasal sinuses in a cadaveric model and evaluated novel uses for sialendoscopes.

Methods:

Currently available sialendoscopes were used for visualisation and performing interventions in the paranasal sinuses. Ten cadaver heads were studied before and after dissection. Outcomes included ostia identification, sinus cannulation, success of mucosal biopsy collection and image clarity.

Results:

Marchal and Erlangen sialendoscopes were found to be effective for both visualising and cannulating the sphenoid sinuses before and after dissection. Both types demonstrated poor maxillary ostia visualisation without dissection, but did allow treatment after antrostomy. Larger diameter sialendoscopes were associated with the lowest image distortion during maxillary ostia assessment. Mucosal biopsy collection within the sphenoid sinus, but not in the maxillary sinus, was possible before dissection.

Conclusion:

Sialendoscopes can be used for visualisation and performing interventions in the sinonasal cavity, but their utility is mainly limited to the sphenoid sinus. They may be considered a minimally invasive method for drug delivery and/or biopsy collection in the post-operative setting for all sinuses. Design improvements are suggested.
The Roots of Brazil's Heavy Taxation
Authors: ONDETTI GABRIEL
Published: July 2015

Latin America is widely known as a low-tax region, but Brazil defies that description with a tax burden almost double the regional average. Though longstanding, Brazil’s position atop the tax burden ranking is not a historical constant. As recently as the early 1950s three other countries, Argentina, Chile and Uruguay, had similar or even heavier burdens. However, by the early 1980s Brazil had emerged as the most heavily taxed country in Latin America, and subsequent decades reinforced that status. This article seeks to uncover the roots of Brazil’s heavy taxation by examining the process through which it rose to the top of the regional ranking and managed to stay there. It emphasises two variables, the social class bases of public sector growth and the degree of support for democracy among key political actors. Despite changing over time, these variables have consistently interacted in ways that favour rising taxation.
Weibull-type speckle distributions as a result of saturation in stimulated scattering processes
Authors: Hüller S. , Porzio A.
Published: July 2015

During the propagation of an optically smoothed laser beam through a warm plasma the speckle field pattern and the corresponding speckle intensity distribution are modified in time and along the laser propagation direction. It is shown here that the laser–plasma interaction can change the character of speckle statistics from an initially exponential-type limit law to a Weibull-type law. The Weibull distribution is characterized by a power-law-type behavior in a limited interval of the random variable, which is, in the present case, the speckle intensity. The properties of the speckle distributions are studied using methods of extremal and order statistics. The scattering instability process (here stimulated Brillouin forward scattering) causing the change in speckle statistics has an onset behavior associated with a “critical gain” value, as pointed out in work by Rose and DuBois (1993b). The saturation of the instability process as a function of intensity explains the limited interval of the Weibull-type speckle distribution. The differences in the type of the speckle statistics are analyzed by using “excess over threshold” methods relying on the generalized Pareto distribution, which clearly brings to evidence the transition from an exponential type distribution to the Weibull-type distribution as a function of the instability gain value, that is, from the regime below critical gain to values above the critical gain.
Implementation of latent tuberculosis screening in HIV care centres: evaluation in a low tuberculosis incidence setting
Authors: WYNDHAM-THOMAS C. , SCHEPERS K. , DIRIX V. , MASCART F. , VAN VOOREN J.-P. , GOFFARD J.-C.
Published: July 2015

The screening and treatment of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) to prevent active tuberculosis (TB) is recommended by the WHO in all HIV-infected patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate its implementation within Belgium's HIV care. A multiple-choice questionnaire was sent to 55 physicians working in the country's AIDS reference centres. Response rate reached 62%. Only 20% screened all their HIV-infected patients for LTBI. Screening methods used and their interpretation vary from one physician to another. The main barriers to the implementation of LTBI screening and treatment, as perceived by the participants, are lack of sensitivity of screening tools, risks associated with polypharmacy and toxicity of treatment. The poor coverage of LTBI screening reported here and the inconsistency in methods used raises concern. However, this was not unexpected as, in low-TB incidence countries, who, when and how to screen for LTBI remains unclear and published guidelines show important disparities. Recently, a targeted approach in which only HIV-infected patients at highest risk of TB are screened has been suggested. Such a strategy would limit unnecessary exposure to LTBI treatment. This methodology was approved by 80% of the participants and could therefore achieve greater coverage. Its clinical validation is still pending.
Genetic, molecular and physiological basis of variation in Drosophila gut immunocompetence
Authors: Bou Sleiman Maroun S. , Osman Dani , Massouras Andreas , Hoffmann Ary A. , Lemaitre Bruno , Deplancke Bart
Published: July 2015

Gut immunocompetence involves immune, stress and regenerative processes. To investigate the determinants underlying inter-individual variation in gut immunocompetence, we perform enteric infection of 140 Drosophila lines with the entomopathogenic bacterium Pseudomonas entomophila and observe extensive variation in survival. Using genome-wide association analysis, we identify several novel immune modulators. Transcriptional profiling further shows that the intestinal molecular state differs between resistant and susceptible lines, already before infection, with one transcriptional module involving genes linked to reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism contributing to this difference. This genetic and molecular variation is physiologically manifested in lower ROS activity, lower susceptibility to ROS-inducing agent, faster pathogen clearance and higher stem cell activity in resistant versus susceptible lines. This study provides novel insights into the determinants underlying population-level variability in gut immunocompetence, revealing how relatively minor, but systematic genetic and transcriptional variation can mediate overt physiological differences that determine enteric infection susceptibility.
MitoRCA-seq reveals unbalanced cytocine to thymine transition in Polg mutant mice
Authors: Ni Ting , Wei Gang , Shen Ting , Han Miao , Lian Yaru , Fu Haihui , Luo Yan , Yang Yanqin , Liu Jie , Wakabayashi Yoshi , Li Zheng , Finkel Toren , Xu Hong , Zhu Jun
Published: July 2015

Mutations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) can lead to a wide range of human diseases. We have developed a deep sequencing strategy, mitoRCA-seq, to detect low-frequency mtDNA point mutations starting with as little as 1 ng of total DNA. It employs rolling circle amplification, which enriches the full-length circular mtDNA by either custom mtDNA-specific primers or a commercial kit and minimizes the contamination of nuclear encoded mitochondrial DNA (Numts). By analyzing the mutation profiles of wild-type and Polg (mitochondrial DNA polymerase γ) mutant mice, we found that mice with the proofreading deficient mtDNA polymerase have a significantly higher mutation load by expanding the number of mutation sites and to a lesser extent by elevating the mutation frequency at existing sites even before the premature aging phenotypes appear. Strikingly, cytocine (C) to thymine (T) transitions are found to be overrepresented in the mtDNA of Polg mutated mice. The C → T transition, compared to other types of mutations, tends to increase the hydrophobicity of the underlying amino acids and may contribute to the impaired protein function of the Polg mutant mice. Taken together, our findings may provide clues to further investigate the molecular mechanism underlying premature aging phenotype in Polg mutant mice.
Towards highest peak intensities for ultra-short MeV-range ion bunches
Authors: Busold Simon , Schumacher Dennis , Brabetz Christian , Jahn Diana , Kroll Florian , Deppert Oliver , Schramm Ulrich , Cowan Thomas E. , Blažević Abel , Bagnoud Vincent , Roth Markus
Published: July 2015

A laser-driven, multi-MeV-range ion beamline has been installed at the GSI Helmholtz center for heavy ion research. The high-power laser PHELIX drives the very short (picosecond) ion acceleration on μm scale, with energies ranging up to 28.4 MeV for protons in a continuous spectrum. The necessary beam shaping behind the source is accomplished by applying magnetic ion lenses like solenoids and quadrupoles and a radiofrequency cavity. Based on the unique beam properties from the laser-driven source, high-current single bunches could be produced and characterized in a recent experiment: At a central energy of 7.8 MeV, up to 5 × 108 protons could be re-focused in time to a FWHM bunch length of τ = (462 ± 40) ps via phase focusing. The bunches show a moderate energy spread between 10% and 15% (ΔE/E0 at FWHM) and are available at 6 m distance to the source und thus separated from the harsh laser-matter interaction environment. These successful experiments represent the basis for developing novel laser-driven ion beamlines and accessing highest peak intensities for ultra-short MeV-range ion bunches.
In vitro analysis of phosphorothioate modification of DNA reveals substrate recognition by a multiprotein complex
Authors: Cao Bo , Zheng Xiaoqing , Cheng Qiuxiang , Yao Fen , Zheng Tao , Ramesh Babu I. , Zhou Huchen , Dedon Peter , You Delin
Published: July 2015

A wide variety of prokaryotes possess DNA modifications consisting of sequence-specific phosphorothioates (PT) inserted by members of a five-gene cluster. Recent genome mapping studies revealed two unusual features of PT modifications: short consensus sequences and partial modification of a specific genomic site in a population of bacteria. To better understand the mechanism of target selection of PT modifications that underlies these features, we characterized the substrate recognition of the PT-modifying enzymes termed DptC, D and E in a cell extract system from Salmonella. The results revealed that double-stranded oligodeoxynucleotides underwent de novo PT modification in vitro, with the same modification pattern as in vivo, i. e., GpsAAC/GpsTTC motif. Unexpectedly, in these in vitro analyses we observed no significant effect on PT modification by sequences flanking GAAC/GTTC motif, while PT also occurred in the GAAC/GTTC motif that could not be modified in vivo. Hemi-PT DNA also served as substrate of the PT-modifying enzymes, but not single-stranded DNA. The PT-modifying enzymes were then found to function as a large protein complex, with all of three subunits in tetrameric conformations. This study provided the first demonstration of in vitro DNA PT modification by PT-modifying enzymes that function as a large protein complex.
Hydrogen sulfide enhances salt tolerance through nitric oxide-mediated maintenance of ion homeostasis in barley seedling roots
Authors: Chen Juan , Wang Wen-Hua , Wu Fei-Hua , He En-Ming , Liu Xiang , Shangguan Zhou-Ping , Zheng Hai-Lei
Published: July 2015

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and nitric oxide (NO) are emerging as messenger molecules involved in the modulation of plant physiological processes. Here, we investigated a signalling network involving H2S and NO in salt tolerance pathway of barley. NaHS, a donor of H2S, at a low concentration of either 50 or 100 μM, had significant rescue effects on the 150 mM NaCl-induced inhibition of plant growth and modulated the K+/Na+ balance by decreasing the net K+ efflux and increasing the gene expression of an inward-rectifying potassium channel (HvAKT1) and a high-affinity K+ uptake system (HvHAK4). H2S and NO maintained the lower Na+ content in the cytoplast by increasing the amount of PM H+-ATPase, the transcriptional levels of PM H+-ATPase (HvHA1) and Na+/H+ antiporter (HvSOS1). H2S and NO modulated Na+ compartmentation into the vacuoles with up-regulation of the transcriptional levels of vacuolar Na+/H+ antiporter (HvVNHX2) and H+-ATPase subunit β (HvVHA-β) and increased in the protein expression of vacuolar Na+/H+ antiporter (NHE1). H2S mimicked the effect of sodium nitroprusside (SNP) by increasing NO production, whereas the function was quenched with the addition of NO scavenger. These results indicated that H2S increased salt tolerance by maintaining ion homeostasis, which were mediated by the NO signal.
Global-change vulnerability of a key plant resource, the African palms
Authors: Blach-Overgaard Anne , Balslev Henrik , Dransfield John , Normand Signe , Svenning Jens-Christian
Published: July 2015

Palms are keystone species in tropical ecosystems and provide essential ecosystem services to rural people worldwide. However, many palm species are threatened by habitat loss and over-exploitation. Furthermore, palms are sensitive to climate and thus vulnerable to future climate changes. Here, we provide a first quantitative assessment of the future risks to the African palm flora, finding that African palm species on average may experience a decline in climatic suitability in >70% of their current ranges by 2080. This suitability loss may, however, be almost halved if migration to nearby climatically suitable sites succeeds. Worryingly, 42% of the areas with 80–100% of species losing climate suitability are also characterized by high human population density (HPD). By 2080, >90% of all African palm species’ ranges will likely occur at HPDs leading to increased risks of habitat loss and overexploitation. Additionally, up to 87% of all species are predicted to lose climatic suitability within current protected areas (PAs) by 2080. In summary, a major plant component of tropical ecosystems and provider of ecosystem services to rural populations will face strongly increased pressures from climate change and human populations in the near future.
Rotational spectroscopy of methyl benzoylformate and methyl mandelate: structure and internal dynamics of a model reactant and product of enantioselective reduction
Authors: Schnitzler Elijah G. , Poopari Mohammad Reza , Xu Yunjie , Jäger Wolfgang
Published: July 2015

Rotational spectra of a prochiral ester, methyl benzoylformate, and the product of its enantioselective reduction, (R)-(–)-methyl mandelate, were measured, and minimum energy conformers and methyl rotation barriers were determined.
Coaxial CoMoO4 nanowire arrays with chemically integrated conductive coating for high-performance flexible all-solid-state asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Chen Yaping , Liu Borui , Liu Qi , Wang Jun , Li Zhanshuang , Jing Xiaoyan , Liu Lianhe
Published: July 2015

CoMoO4 nanowire arrays on carbon cloth (CC) improve the supercapacitor performance. Meanwhile, a flexible all-solid-state asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) device demonstrates highly stable cyclic performance with outstanding robust flexibility.
Evaluation of the effect of a palm acid oil coating on upgrading low rank coal
Authors: Khan Muhammad Zubair , Chun Dong Hyuk , Yoo Jiho , Kim Sang Do , Rhim Young Joon , Choi Ho Kyung , Lim Jeonghwan , Lee Sihyun , Rifella Archi
Published: July 2015

Indonesian low rank coal (LRC) was upgraded by the addition of palm acid oil (PAO), and the efficiency of the inhibition of spontaneous combustion, as well as the resistance to moisture readsorption, was compared with raw coal.
Single-layer graphyne membranes for super-excellent brine separation in forward osmosis
Authors: Zhang Xin , Gai Jing-Gang
Published: July 2015

Forward osmosis (FO) technology has shown great promise in sea water desalinization and in power generation from the mixing of fresh water and seawater in estuaries.
Synthesis of poly(n-butyl methacrylate)-(glycidyl methacrylate) block copolymer and its compatibilization at the interface of the QD/epoxy nanocomposite for white LED encapsulation
Authors: Chen Lanlan , Zhang Chen , Du Zhongjie , Li Hangquan , Zhang Li , Zou Wei
Published: July 2015

The QD/epoxy nanocomposite expressed high transparency and luminescence through introducing a poly(BMA-b-GMA) block copolymer as a compatibilizer at the interface between the QD and epoxy matrix.
A novel magnetic fluorescent chemosensor for Cu2+ based on self-assembled systems of azobenzene and α-cyclodextrin
Authors: Zhang Yue , Li Qiang , Guo Jing , Li Yaoxian , Yang Qingbiao , Du Jianshi
Published: July 2015

A novel fluorescent and colorimetric chemosensor for Cu2+ has been designed and fabricated.
A novel linear molecular beacon based on DNA-scaffolded silver nanocluster for DNA detection via exonuclease III-assisted cyclic amplification
Authors: Ma Jin-Liang , Yin Bin-Cheng , Ye Bang-Ce
Published: July 2015

Developing label-free molecular beacon (MB)-based methods for DNA detection has been of great significance in bioanalysis because of their simplicity, low cost, and specificity.
A colorimetric/luminescent benzene compound sensor based on a bis(σ-acetylide) platinum(ii) complex: enhancing selectivity and reversibility through dual-recognition sites strategy
Authors: Ni Jun , Kang Jia-Jia , Wang Hui-Hui , Gai Xu-Qiao , Zhang Xiao-Xin , Jia Ting , Xu Liang , Pan Yu-Zhen , Zhang Jian-Jun
Published: July 2015

A concurrent, selective, naked-eye perceivable, sensitive, reversible, reproducible, and easy to use sensor for detecting vapors of benzene compounds has been developed.
Exploring the metallic phase of N2O under high pressure
Authors: Zhu Chunye , Bi Haixin , Zhang Shoutao , Wei Shubo , Li Quan
Published: July 2015

Using the CALYPSO method, we proposed a new metallic structure of N2O under high pressure.
Wound healing properties of hyaluronan derivatives bearing ferulate residues
Authors: Valacchi Giuseppe , Grisci Giorgio , Sticozzi Claudia , Lim Yoonsuk , Paolino Marco , Giuliani Germano , Mendichi Raniero , Belmonte Giuseppe , Artusi Roberto , Zanardi Andrea , Garofalo Paolo , Giorgi Gianluca , Cappelli Andrea , Rovati Lucio
Published: July 2015

The results obtained suggestHAFAgraft copolymers as possible future drugs for the therapeutic treatment of acute and chronic wounds.
The role and potential advantages of vitamin D metabolites in maintaining calcium status in high-producing dairy herds
Authors: McGrath J. J. , Savage D. B. , Godwin I. R.
Published: July 2015

Long-term, declining fertility is a reported trend in high-production dairy herds. Nutrition management is identified as a key area where improvement is required. Most published literature relating to nutrition management of dairy cow fertility examines energy and protein status and peri-parturient calcium (Ca) homeostasis availability. This paper examines the current understanding of Ca homeostasis relevant to improving performance in the high-production dairy herd. In particular, this article reviews Ca and vitamin D nutrition during lactation, for achieving health and productivity improvements in subsequent lactations, with specific reference to pasture-based dairy herds. Vitamin D metabolites are essential for increasing the proportion of absorbed Ca when dietary Ca concentration is low or when the requirement for Ca is high. Vitamin D metabolites stimulate the synthesis of the proteins that control active intestinal Ca absorption. This has particular relevance to cows that may not be able to replenish Ca reserves before parturition, which may be a common occurrence in current pasture-based dairy systems. It is possible that due to reductions in Ca reserves, the effectiveness of the cow to liberate sufficient Ca into plasma at parturition will be compromised as she faces subsequent lactations. This has significant implications for the ability of the cow to progress through transition in a healthy state, maintain an optimum energy balance during early lactation and subsequently conceive. Suboptimal nutritional management of Ca status through successive lactations may be shortening the productive life of the high-producing dairy cow.
FRET sensor-based quantification of intracellular trehalose in mammalian cells
Authors: Kikuta Shingo , Hou Bi-Huei , Sato Ryoichi , Frommer Wolf B , Kikawada Takahiro
Published: July 2015

Trehalose acts as a stress protectant and an autophagy inducer in mammalian cells. The molecular mechanisms of action remain obscure because intracellular trehalose at micromolar level is difficult to quantitate. Here, we show a novel trehalose monitoring technology based on FRET. FLIPsuc90μ∆1Venus sensor expressed in mammalian cells enables to quickly and non-destructively detect an infinitesimal amount of intracellular trehalose.
Controlling Brown Spot of Pear by a Synthetic Antimicrobial Peptide Under Field Conditions
Authors: Puig Mireia , Moragrega Concepció , Ruz Lídia , Montesinos Emilio , Llorente Isidre
Published: July 2015

Brown spot of pear, caused by Stemphylium vesicarium, is a fungal disease of increasing importance in several pear-growing areas of Europe. Disease control measures include the application of fungicides and sanitation methods. Antimicrobial peptides may be a complement or alternative to conventional fungicides used to manage brown spot disease. In a previous study, the synthetic peptide BP15 showed postinfection fungicidal activity against S. vesicarium in in vitro and detached-leaf assays. In the present study, the efficacy of BP15 (KKLFKKILKVL-NH2) in controlling brown spot of pear was evaluated under field conditions using potted plants and pear trees in orchards. In field trials, the treatments with BP15 or with the fungicide thiram were scheduled according to the infection risk predicted by the BSPcast model. Potted pear plants treated with BP15 showed a disease reduction of about 42 to 60% in five of seven trials. In three of four tree trials, the disease severity on shoots treated with BP15 was significantly lower than in the nontreated controls, with a mean efficacy of 38.2%. It was concluded that BP15 is a good candidate to be further developed as a fungicide for controlling brown spot of pear.
Detection oftrans–cisflips and peptide-plane flips in protein structures
Authors: Touw Wouter G. , Joosten Robbie P. , Vriend Gert
Published: July 2015

A coordinate-based method is presented to detect peptide bonds that need correction either by a peptide-plane flip or by atrans–cisinversion of the peptide bond. When applied to the whole Protein Data Bank, the method predicts 4617trans–cisflips and many thousands of hitherto unknown peptide-plane flips. A few examples are highlighted for which a correction of the peptide-plane geometry leads to a correction of the understanding of the structure–function relation. All data, including 1088 manually validated cases, are freely available and the method is available from a web server, a web-service interface and throughWHAT_CHECK.
Accounting for unknown systematic errors in Rietveld refinements: a Bayesian statistics approach
Authors: Gagin Anton , Levin Igor
Published: July 2015

A method has been developed to address the effects of systematic errors in Rietveld refinements using powder diffraction data. Relevant errors were categorized into multiplicative, additive and peak-shape types. Corrections for these errors were incorporated into structural refinements using a Bayesian statistics approach, with the corrections themselves treated as nuisance parameters and marginalized out of the analysis. Structural parameters refined using the proposed method represent probability-weighted averages over all possible error corrections. The developed formalism has been adapted to least-squares minimization algorithms and implemented as an extension to the Rietveld software packageGSAS-II. The technique was first tested using neutron and X-ray diffraction data simulated for PbSO4and then applied to the equivalent experimental data sets for the same compound. The results obtained using the simulated data confirmed that the proposed method yields significantly more accurate estimates of structural parameters and their uncertainties than standard refinements. The benefits were particularly significant for joint refinements using neutron and X-ray diffraction data because accounting for systematic errors enabled more adequate weighting of the individual data sets.
Preparation and mechanisms of cemented carbides with ultrahigh fracture strength
Authors: Liu Xingwei , Song Xiaoyan , Wang Haibin , Liu Xuemei , Wang Xilong , Guo Guangsheng
Published: July 2015

WC–Co cemented carbides were prepared by liquid-state sintering of in situ synthesized composite powders with a constant Co content but different carbon concentrations, and with different size scales of VC particles as grain-growth inhibitor. With an optimized carbon addition and doping with microscale VC particles, an ultrahigh fracture strength with a mean value above 5000 MPa was achieved for cemented carbides. By detailed crystallographic analysis of the configuration and interactions of the WC, Co and VC phases, the effects of VC particle size on the microstructure and mechanical properties of cemented carbides are identified. The mechanisms by which the fracture strength depends on the VC particle size contain the effects on the changes in Co binder distribution, atomic matching at the phase boundary and WC grain size. The dominant factors for ultrahigh fracture strength of cemented carbides are proposed.
Dihydrooxazolones and dihydroimidazolones derived from acylglycines: syntheses, molecular structures and supramolecular assembly
Authors: Subbulakshmi Karanth N. , Narayana Badiadka , Yathirajan Hemmige S. , Akkurt Mehmet , Çelik Ömer , Ersanlı Cem Cüneyt , Glidewell Christopher
Published: July 2015

Syntheses and structures are described for some alkylidene-substituted dihydrooxazolones and dihydroimidazoles derived from simple acylglycines. A second, triclinic, polymorph of 4-benzylidene-2-(4-methylphenyl)-1,3-oxazol-5(4H)-one, C17H13NO2, (I), has been identified and the structure of 2-methyl-4-[(thiophen-2-yl)methylidene]-1,3-oxazol-5(4H)-one, C9H7NO2S, (II), has been rerefined taking into account the orientational disorder of the thienyl group in each of the two independent molecules. The reactions of phenylhydrazine with 2-phenyl-4-[(thiophen-2-yl)methylidene]-1,3-oxazol-5(4H)-one or 2-(4-methylphenyl)-4-[(thiophen-2-yl)methylidene]-1,3-oxazol-5(4H)-one yield, respectively, 3-anilino-2-phenyl-5-[(thiophen-2-yl)methylidene]-3,5-dihydro-4H-imidazol-4-one, C10H15N3OS, (III), and 3-anilino-2-(4-methylphenyl)-5-[(thiophen-2-yl)methylidene]-3,5-dihydro-4H-imidazol-4-one, C21H17N3OS, (IV), which both exhibit orientational disorder in their thienyl groups. The reactions of 2-phenyl-4-[(thiophen-2-yl)methylidene]-1,3-oxazol-5(4H)-one with hydrazine hydrate or with water yield, respectively,N-[3-hydrazinyl-3-oxo-1-(thiophen-2-yl)prop-1-en-2-yl]benzamide and 2-(benzoylamino)-3-(thiophen-2-yl)prop-2-enoic acid, which in turn react, respectively, with thiophene-2-carbaldehyde to form 2-phenyl-5-[(thiophen-2-yl)methylidene]-3-{[(E)-(thiophen-2-yl)methylidene]amino}-3,5-dihydro-4H-imidazol-4-one, C19H13N3OS2, (V), which exhibits orientational disorder in only one of its thienyl groups, and with methanol to give methyl (2Z)-2-(benzoylamino)-3-(thiophen-2-yl)prop-2-enoate, C15H13NO3S, (VI). There are no direction-specific intermolecular interactions in the crystal structure of the triclinic polymorph of (I), but the molecules of (II) are linked by two independent C—H...O hydrogen bonds to formC22(14) chains. Compounds (III) and (IV) both form centrosymmetricR22(10) dimers built from N—H...O hydrogen bonds, while compound (V) forms a centrosymmetricR22(10) dimer built from C—H...O hydrogen bonds. In the structure of compound (VI), a combination of N—H...O and C—H...π(arene) hydrogen bonds links the molecules into sheets. Comparisons are made with some similar compounds.
Purification and crystallographic studies of a putative carbohydrate-binding module from theRuminococcus flavefaciensFD-1 endoglucanase Cel5A
Authors: Pires Ana José , Ribeiro Teresa , Thompson Andrew , Venditto Immacolata , Fernandes Vânia O. , Bule Pedro , Santos Helena , Alves Victor D. , Pires Virginia , Ferreira Luis M. A. , Fontes Carlos M. G. A. , Najmudin Shabir
Published: July 2015

Ruminant herbivores meet their carbon and energy requirements from a symbiotic relationship with cellulosome-producing anaerobic bacteria that efficiently degrade plant cell-wall polysaccharides. The assembly of carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) into cellulosomes enhances protein stability and enzyme synergistic interactions. Cellulosomes comprise diverse CAZymes displaying a modular architecture in which a catalytic domain is connected,vialinker sequences, to one or more noncatalytic carbohydrate-binding modules (CBMs). CBMs direct the appended catalytic modules to their target substrates, thus facilitating catalysis. The genome of the ruminal cellulolytic bacteriumRuminococcus flavefaciensstrain FD-1 contains over 200 modular proteins containing the cellulosomal signature dockerin module. One of these is an endoglucanase Cel5A comprising two family 5 glycoside hydrolase catalytic modules (GH5) flanking an unclassified CBM (termed CBM-Rf2) and a C-terminal dockerin. This novel CBM-Rf2 has been purified and crystallized, and data from cacodylate-derivative crystals were processed to 1.02 and 1.29 Å resolution. The crystals belonged to the orthorhombic space groupP212121. The CBM-Rf2 structure was solved by a single-wavelength anomalous dispersion experiment at the As edge.
The soluble Y115E–Y117E variant of human glutaminyl cyclase is a valid target for X-ray and NMR screening of inhibitors against Alzheimer disease
Authors: DiPisa Flavio , Pozzi Cecilia , Benvenuti Manuela , Andreini Matteo , Marconi Guido , Mangani Stefano
Published: July 2015

Recent developments in molecular pathology and genetics have allowed the identification of human glutaminyl cyclase (hQC) among the abnormal proteins involved in many neurodegenerative disorders. Difficulties in obtaining large quantities of pure protein may limit the use of crystallographic screening for drug development on this target. Site-directed mutagenesis experiments have led to the identification of some solvent-exposed residues that are absolutely critical to achieve increased solubility and to avoid precipitation of the enzyme in inclusion bodies when expressed inEscherichia coli. The designed variant Y115E–Y117E has been found to be able to provide large amounts of monodisperse, pure hQC from anE. coliexpression system. To validate the use of the artificial construct as a target for large-scale X-ray and NMR screening campaigns in the search for new inhibitors of hQC, the X-ray crystal structures of the hQC Y115E–Y117E variant and of its adduct with the inhibitor PBD-150 were determined.
Organizational meetings: management and benefits
Authors: Bagire Vincent , Byarugaba Jolly , Kyogabiirwe Janet
Published: July 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the management and benefits of meetings so as to draw conclusions on their effectiveness in organizations given the increasing discontent about their set up.

Design/methodology/approach

– The study was a cross-sectional survey, data were collected from 325 respondents in 22 service organizations in Kampala, using a questionnaire and participant observations; the instrument was tested for reliability and analysis done using descriptive and statistical techniques.

Findings

– The key finding was that policy regarding meetings and reasons for convening them jointly account for 57 percent variations in the benefits organizations have. The way meetings are conducted was found to have no significant effect, contrary to anecdotal evidences. The internal and external contextual factors did not affect the effectiveness of meetings. In general meetings have benefited organizations but the discontent on how they are managed is still high.

Research limitations/implications

– The lack of analytical and local literature on the study variables limited this study. There were also methodological challenges especially operationalization of variables, sampling and choice of respondents.

Practical implications

– The study underpins policy as a key factor for effectiveness of meetings; the literature supported this account. For governance boards there is need to review policy on meetings; and for managers, the paper emphasizes the need for improving how meetings are convened, conducted and the follow up action. The study has provided rich ground for scholars; the authors have extended the debate on meetings, brought into view an African context and made it possible for further studies.

Social implications

– Meetings involve many people in the organization and affect entire operations. There are critical personal factors that are pertinent in the outcome of meetings. The finding that personal factors do not have a significant relationship with effectiveness of meetings should not be applauded till further investigations and conceptualization is done in similar contexts. There are social implications on if meetings are not managed well as the authors have established like time wastage, employee motivation and poor management among others.

Originality/value

– Many papers that the authors accessed on meetings were on organizational experiences from western countries, the authors have made an original focus on Uganda and underpinned the debate on management development in Africa. The authors have also examined and provided an empirical basis for understanding effectiveness of meetings using key factors of policy, preparation, conduct and contextual factors.