bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reliability of Precision Data Obtained from Interlaboratory Studies
Authors: Uhlig Steffen , Eichler Stefanie , Gowik Petra
Published: April 2013

Precision data, such as laboratory-to-laboratory SD (sL) and repeatability SD, obtained from interlaboratory tests are needed to assess analytical test methods. These precision data describing random error are subject to random variation. In order to avoid distorted assessments of test methods, interlaboratory tests must fulfill minimal requirements for achieving, e. g., a desired reliability in sL. In 2009, McClure and Lee considered reliability of sL as a characteristic of an interlaboratory study. They developed an approach to approximate that reliability to make it possible to adapt the study design of an interlaboratory study to a desired reliability in sL. The McClure and Lee approach introduces the "margin of relative error" to arrive at the magnitude of the uncertainty in sL. This article discusses their approach and presents a generalized approach. The limitations of McClure and Lee's approximation are shown to result in underestimation of the actual variability of sL due to the disregard of the inherent negative bias of sL. This bias corresponds to the fact that the expected value of the obtained sL lies below the true value σL one would obtain in an interlaboratory study with an infinite number of laboratories and replicates. In order to achieve the reported level of reliability in sL, the actual number of laboratories required is typically approximately 25% higher than that calculated by McClure and Lee. We present a generalized approach using "margins of relative random error," which takes the impact of the bias of the sL into account, resulting in a more realistic estimation of the variability of the precision parameter sL .
Development and Validation of a Stability-Indicating Size-Indicating Size-Exclusion LC Method for the Determination of rhIFN-α2a in Pharmaceutical Formulations
Authors: Zimmermann Estevan Sonego , Magalhães da Silva Lucélia , Calegari Guilherme Zanini , Stamm Fernanda Pavani , Souto Ricardo Bizogne , Dalmora Sérgio Luiz
Published: April 2013

A size-exclusion LC method was validated for the determination of interferon-α2a (rhIFN-α2a) in pharmaceutical formulations without interference from human serum albumin. Chromatographic separation was performed on a BioSep-SEC-S 2000 column (300 × 7.8 mm id). The mobile phase consisted of 0.001 M monobasic potassium phosphate, 0.008 M sodium phosphate dibasic; 0.2 M sodium chloride buffer, pH 7.4, run at a gradient flow rate and using photodiode array detection at 214 nm, was used. Chromatographic separation was achieved with a retention time of 17.2 min, and the analysis was linear over the concentration range of 1.98 to 198 μg/mL (r2 = 0.9996). The accuracy was 101.39%, with bias lower than 1.67%. The LOD and LOQ were 0.87 and 1.98 μg/mL, respectively. Moreover, method validation demonstrated acceptable results for precision and robustness. The method was applied to the assessment of rhIFN-α2a and related proteins in biopharmaceutical dosage forms, and the content/potencies were correlated to those given by a validated RP-LC method and an in vitro bioassay. It was concluded that use of the methods in conjunction allows a great improvement in monitoring stability and QC, thereby ensuring the therapeutic efficacy of the biotechnology-derived medicine.
Determination of Pyridoxine in Dietary Supplements by Liquid Chromatography with UV, Fluorescence, and Mass Spectrometric Detection: Single-Laboratory Validation
Authors: Goldschmidt Robert J , Wolf Wayne R
Published: April 2013

A single-laboratory validation was performed for a method that determines pyridoxine, one of the B6 vitamers, in dietary supplements using LC and UV, fluorescence, or MS detection. The method was adapted for use with either HPLC or ultra-performance LC (UPLC). Pyridoxine is extracted from samples using 0.1 M formic acid, and specific conditions are adjusted for each of the different types of supplement materials examined. Reversed-phase chromatography with C18-based columns is used in both HPLC and UPLC. Fluorescence detection, often used in chromatographic analyses of vitamin B6 in foods, was successfully used here, but offered no great advantages over UV detection in the supplement materials tested. MS detection was also satisfactory, although use of an internal standard was required. Accuracy of the method was demonstrated in several ways, including use of a standard reference material. Precision and repeatability of the method were found acceptable by analysis of variance and HorRat repeatability calculations.
Interlaboratory Study of Qualitative PCR Methods for Genetically Modified Maize Events MON810, Bt11, GA21, and CaMV P35S
Authors: Takabatake Reona , Takashima Kaori , Kurashima Takeyo , Mano Junichi , Furui Satoshi , Kitta Kazumi , Koiwa Tomohiro , Akiyama Hiroshi , Teshima Reiko , Futo Satoshi , Minegishi Yasutaka
Published: April 2013

Qualitative PCR methods for the genetically modified (GM) maize events MON810, Bt11, and GA21, and the 35S promoter (P35S) region of the cauliflower mosaic virus (CaMV) were evaluated in an interlaboratory study. Real-time PCR-based quantitative methods for these GM events using the same primer pairs had already been validated in previous studies. Fifteen laboratories in Japan participated in this interlaboratory study. Each participant extracted DNA from blind samples, performed qualitative PCR assays, and then detected the PCR products with agarose gel electrophoresis. The specificity, sensitivity, and false-negative and false-positive rates of these methods were determined with different concentrations of GM mixing samples. LODs of these methods for MON810, Bt11, GA21, and the P35S segment calculated as the amount of MON810 were 0.2, 0.2, 0.1, and 0.2% or less, respectively, indicating that the LODs of MON810, Bt11, and P35S were lower than 10 copies, and the LOD of GA21 was lower than 25 copies of maize haploid genome. The current study demonstrated that the qualitative methods would be fit for the detection and identification of these GM maize events and the P35S segment.
VIDAS® Listeria species Xpress (LSX)
Authors: Johnson Ronald , Mills John
Published: April 2013

The AOAC GovVal study compared the VIDAS®Listeria species Xpress (LSX) to the Health Products and Food Branch MFHPB-30 reference method for detection of Listeria on stainless steel. The LSX method utilizes a novel and proprietary enrichment media, Listeria Xpress broth, enabling detection of Listeria species in environmental samples with the automated VIDAS in a minimum of 26 h. The LSX method also includes the use of the chromogenic media, chromID™ Ottaviani Agosti Agar (OAA) and chromID™ Lmono for confirmation of LSX presumptive results. In previous AOAC validation studies comparing VIDAS LSX to the U. S. Food and Drug Administration's Bacteriological Analytical Manual (FDA-BAM) and the U. S. Department of Agriculture-Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) reference methods, the LSX method was approved as AOAC Official Method2010.02 for the detection of Listeria species in dairy products, vegetables, seafood, raw meats and poultry, and processed meats and poultry, and as AOAC Performance Tested Method 100501 in a variety of foods and on environmental surfaces. The GovVal comparative study included 20 replicate test portions each at two contamination levels for stainless steel where fractionally positive results (5–15 positive results/20 replicate portions tested) were obtained by at least one method at one level. Five uncontaminated controls were included. In the stainless steel artificially contaminated surface study, there were 25 confirmed positives by the VIDAS LSX assay and 22 confirmed positives by the standard culture methods. Chi-square analysis indicated no statistical differences between the VIDAS LSX method and the MFHPB-30 standard methods at the 5% level of significance. Confirmation of presumptive LSX results with the chromogenic OAA and Lmono media was shown to be equivalent to the appropriate reference method agars. The data in this study demonstrate that the VIDAS LSX method is an acceptable alternative method to the MFHPB-30 standard culture method for the detection of Listeria species on stainless steel.
A Comparison Study of Two 3-UPU Translational Parallel Manipulators
Authors: Hu Bo , Yao Yunfeng , Wu Peiliang , Lu Yi
Published: April 2013

A comparison study of two 3-UPU translational parallel manipulators (PMs) is investigated in this paper. The two 3-UPU PMs have identical pure translational degree of freedoms (DOFs) and an identical actuator arrangement, and thus have identical kinematics. But some differences between the two translational 3-UPU PMs impliedly exist. The two PMs differ in terms of singularity configuration, constrained forces/torques situations and stiffness. This paper focuses on discussing the differences between the two translational 3-UPU PMs. This study provides insights into PMs with identical kinematics.
Le territoire de l’âme, l’écriture, la matière. Politique de la parole de Pierre Perrault
Authors: Giroux Dalie
Published: April 2013

À partir de la formule de Pierre Perrault selon laquelle « La fiction filme ce qui est raconté. Le documentaire raconte ce qui est filmé », cet essai propose, dans le prolongement de l’interprétation qu’en a fait Gilles Deleuze, une exégèse de la pensée politique de Pierre Perrault. Dans un premier temps, « Relation (le territoire de l’âme) », il s’agit de définir les notions d’amitié et de mémoire qui constituent les principes fondateurs de l’approche cinématographique de Pierre Perrault. Dans un deuxième temps, « Représentation (l’écriture) », il s’agit de systématiser la théorie de la représentation qui sous-tend ces principes. Cela permettra dans un troisième temps, « Conjuration (la matière) », de montrer que cette théorie implique le maintien de la parole comme instance de conspiration, comme passion irréductible pour l’indépendance et comme expression d’une relation vivante à la terre. Au terme de ce portrait, l’héritage intellectuel de Perrault qui est mis en valeur est celui d’un matérialisme libertaire.
Review of Emerging New Solid-State Non-Volatile Memories
Authors: Fujisaki Yoshihisa
Published: April 2013

The integration limit of flash memories is approaching, and many new types of memory to replace conventional flash memories have been proposed. Unlike flash memories, new nonvolatile memories do not require storage of electric charges. The possibility of phase-change random-access memories (PCRAMs) or resistive-change RAMs (ReRAMs) replacing ultrahigh-density NAND flash memories has been investigated; however, many issues remain to be overcome, making the replacement difficult. Nonetheless, ferroelectric RAMs (FeRAMs) and magnetoresistive RAMs (MRAMs) are gradually penetrating into fields where the shortcomings of flash memories, such as high operating voltage, slow rewriting speed, and limited number of rewrites, make their use inconvenient. For instance, FeRAMs are widely used in ICs that require low power consumption such as smart cards and wireless tags. MRAMs are used in many kinds of controllers in industrial equipment that require high speed and unlimited rewrite operations. For successful application of new non-volatile semiconductor memories, such memories must be practically utilized in new fields in which flash memories are not applicable, and their technologies must be further developed.
Polarization Switching Dynamics of Vinylidene Fluoride/Trifluoroethylene Copolymer Thin Films under High Electric Field at Various Temperatures
Authors: Ishii Hajime , Nakajima Takashi , Furukawa Takeo , Okamura Soichiro
Published: April 2013

The polarization switching times of vinylidene fluoride (VDF)/trifluoroethylene (TrFE) copolymer thin films with a thickness of 40 nm were measured at temperatures ranging from -50 to 50 °C and applied fields ranging from 75 to 600 MV/m. The switching time was drastically reduced by increasing the applied field at all temperatures. The relationship between the switching time and the reciprocal applied field obeyed the exponential law in the low-field region and the power law in the high-field region. The threshold field between the exponential law and the power law became monotonically lower with decreasing temperature. Furthermore, the exponent value in the power law increased with decreasing temperature. This seems to be caused by a change in domain growth from two-dimensional-like to three-dimensional-like or in nucleation mechanism with decreasing temperature.
Liquid Crystal Gratings with Twisted Alignment Produced by One-Step Polarizer-Rotation Exposure on Photocrosslinkable Polymer Liquid Crystal Films
Authors: Sasaki Tomoyuki , Kuzuwata Mitsuru , Noda Kohei , Kawatsuki Nobuhiro , Ono Hiroshi
Published: April 2013

Liquid crystal (LC) gratings with twisted alignment were fabricated by simple one-step polarizer-rotation exposure. An empty glass cell coated with photocrosslinkable polymer liquid crystal (PCLC) films was exposed by UV light with modulation of intensity or polarization. LC grating cells were obtained by filling the resultant cells with a nematic LC and the LC alignment structures were well controlled by both the intensity and polarization of the UV light. The diffraction properties of the LC gratings were explained by considering the periodic director distribution in the cells, estimated based on the elastic continuum theory of nematic LCs and the photoalignment effects of the PCLC films.
Impact of the Electrical Forming Process on the Resistance Switching Behaviors in Lanthanum-Doped Strontium Titanate Ceramic Chip Devices
Authors: Hirose Sakyo , Niimi Hideaki , Kageyama Keisuke , Ando Akira , Ieki Hideharu , Omata Takahisa
Published: April 2013

The resistance switching (RS) behaviors of La-doped SrTiO3 ceramics before and after the electrical forming process (E-forming) have been investigated in order to clarify the RS mechanism. The formation processes for the double Schottky barriers (DSBs), such as reoxidation and E-forming, are important to realize stable RS properties, and Joule heating strongly influences the RS behaviors after the E-forming. Thermally stimulated current measurements clearly indicated the contribution of defects related to oxygen vacancies to the current conduction through DSBs and RS phenomena both before and after the E-forming. Experimental results suggest that the electron trapping in the defects and/or the defect migration induced by the voltage application and Joule heating change the space-charge distribution near the grain boundaries, resulting in the change in the resistance state.
Comparison between Grazing and Off-Grazing Resonance Emissions of Stimulated Superradiance in an Undulator Channel
Authors: Seo Yoon Ho
Published: April 2013

The effect of bunch slippage in stimulated superradiance emitted from short electron bunches in an undulator channel at the off-grazing resonance is discussed. Comparison between off-grazing and grazing resonance emissions shows that the emitted power in the early radiation-build-up stage significantly decreases owing to the bandwidth restriction caused by slippage. The influence of bunch-pulse detachment due to the slippage seems to be minimized by the proper positioning of the excited pulse.
Electro-Optic Coefficient r51 of LiNbO3 Crystal Obtained from Measurement of Retardation Induced by Square of Electric Field
Authors: Takizawa Kuniharu , Haraguchi Koshi , Jin Lianhua , Suzuki Seiichi
Published: April 2013

A versatile method of measuring electro-optic coefficients (r

i
j
: i=4–6 and j=1–3) of isometric, uniaxial, and biaxial crystals without crystal coordinate rotation has been developed. It has been confirmed theoretically and experimentally that the change in the retardation of an X-cut Y-propagation LiNbO3 crystal depends on the square of the electric field along the X-direction. The constant stress electro-optic coefficient r
51 of the LiNbO3 crystal is found to be 32.05±0.01 pm/V at 632.8 nm.
Tumour Necrosis Factors
Authors: Neumann Simon , Scheurich Peter , Maier Olaf
Published: April 2013

The cytokine tumour necrosis factor (TNF) is the name‐giving member of a large ligand family mirrored by a respective family of membrane receptors. Most ligand members show a typical homotrimeric structure and exert their bioactivities as regulators of the innate and the adaptive immune system. TNF itself is a major activator of proinflammatory responses regulating natural immunity. TNF occurs both in a membrane bound form and a soluble form, both binding but differentially activating two distinct membrane receptors. TNFR1 is expressed in virtually all tissues. TNFR2 is mainly found in immune cells and also the endothelium and neuronal tissue. Both receptors activate distinct intracellular signalling pathways showing some overlap. TNFR1 initiates stimulatory and antiapoptotic signals as well as apoptotic and additional death‐inducing signals in a highly regulated manner, TNFR2 mainly activates cell proliferation and antiapoptotic signalling pathways.

Key Concepts:

The family of TNF ligands and receptors coordinates the complex network of immune responses.

The typical TNF ligand member is a homotrimer capable to bind up to three of its respective receptors.

TNF receptors possess no enzymatic activity; activation occurs via recruitment of adaptor molecules after ligand‐induced multimerisation.

Most TNF receptor family members are linked to the transcription factor family of nuclear factors of kappaB (NF‐κB).

Cells possess altruistic cell death programmes like apoptosis and necroptosis, which control each other.

Some members of the TNF receptor superfamily carry a so‐called death domain and can induce apoptosis (and/or necroptosis).

Owing to its powerful proinflammatory properties, TNF is involved in progression of many autoimmune diseases and is a major target of current clinical treatment regimens.
Silicon Micro‐ and Nanofabrication for Medicine
Authors: Fine Daniel , Grattoni Alessandro , Goodall Randy , Bansal Shyam S. , Chiappini Ciro , Hosali Sharath , van de Ven Anne L. , Srinivasan Srimeenkashi , Liu Xuewu , Godin Biana , Brousseau Louis , Yazdi Iman K. , Fernandez‐Moure Joseph , Tasciotti Ennio , Wu Hung‐Jen , Hu Ye , Klemm Steve , Ferrari Mauro
Published: April 2013

This manuscript constitutes a review of several innovative biomedical technologies fabricated using the precision and accuracy of silicon micro‐ and nanofabrication. The technologies to be reviewed are subcutaneous nanochannel drug delivery implants for the continuous tunable zero‐order release of therapeutics, multi‐stage logic embedded vectors for the targeted systemic distribution of both therapeutic and imaging contrast agents, silicon and porous silicon nanowires for investigating cellular interactions and processes as well as for molecular and drug delivery applications, porous silicon (pSi) as inclusions into biocomposites for tissue engineering, especially as it applies to bone repair and regrowth, and porous silica chips for proteomic profiling. In the case of the biocomposites, the specifically designed pSi inclusions not only add to the structural robustness, but can also promote tissue and bone regrowth, fight infection, and reduce pain by releasing stimulating factors and other therapeutic agents stored within their porous network. The common material thread throughout all of these constructs, silicon and its associated dielectrics (silicon dioxide, silicon nitride, etc.), can be precisely and accurately machined using the same scalable micro‐ and nanofabrication protocols that are ubiquitous within the semiconductor industry. These techniques lend themselves to the high throughput production of exquisitely defined and monodispersed nanoscale features that should eliminate architectural randomness as a source of experimental variation thereby potentially leading to more rapid clinical translation.
Calcium Phosphate Hybrid Nanoparticles: Self‐Assembly Formation, Characterization, and Application as an Anticancer Drug Nanocarrier
Authors: Zhao Xin‐Yu , Zhu Ying‐Jie , Chen Feng , Lu Bing‐Qiang , Qi Chao , Zhao Jing , Wu Jin
Published: April 2013

Calcium phosphate hybrid nanoparticles (CaP‐HNPs) have been synthesized in aqueous solution through self‐assembly by using two oppositely charged polyelectrolytes (poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDADMAC) and poly(acrylate sodium) (PAS)) as dual templates. First, the PAS/Ca2+ and PDADMAC/PO43− complexes form through electrostatic interactions and then two complexes self‐assemble into CaP‐HNPs after mixing them together. The as‐prepared CaP‐HNPs exhibit a spherical morphology with a narrow size distribution, good dispersibility, and high colloidal stability in water. The CaP‐HNPs are explored as a nanocarrier for the anticancer drug docetaxel (Dtxl). The CaP‐HNPs show excellent biocompatibility, high drug‐loading capacity, pH‐sensitive drug‐release behavior, and high anticancer effect after being loaded with Dtxl. Therefore, the as‐prepared CaP‐HNPs are promising drug nanocarriers for cancer therapy.
Electronic Structure of Monodithiolated IronOxotungsten Heterometallic Complexes: Integer‐Spin FeW Assembly
Authors: Bose Moumita , Moula Golam , Sarkar Sabyasachi
Published: April 2013

FeW heterometallic complexes, in which an FeX2 (X=Cl, SPh) moiety is attached to monodithiolene oxotungsten through a sulfide bridge, that is, [Ph4P]2[Cl2Fe(S)2WOS2] (1), [Ph4P]2[Cl2Fe(S)2WOS2(DMED)] (2, DMED=dimethylethylenedicarboxylate), [Ph4P]2[Cl2Fe(S)2WO(tdt)] (3, tdt=toluenedithiolate), [Ph4P]2[(SPh)2Fe(S)2WO(tdt)] (4), and [Ph4P]2[Cl2Fe(S)2WO(edt)] (5, edt=ethanedithiolate), are reported. Mössbauer and EPR spectroscopy, magnetism, electrochemistry, and electronic structural analysis based on DFT and TD‐DFT calculations show the transfer of electron from the iron center to the tungsten center, thus resulting in a ferromagnetically coupled FeIIIWV unit, along with antiferromagnetic intermolecular interactions, from the starting FeII and WVI compounds. A net spin of a S=3 ground state, which arises from ferromagnetically coupled FeIII and WV atoms, displays a rare X‐band EPR in normal mode at g≈7 in the solid state.
Parametric Jordan Form Assignment Revisited
Authors: Schlegel Miloš , Königsmarková Jana
Published: April 2013

The Jordan form assignment problem (complete and partial) for linear multivariable control system is formulated and completely solved by the unified Sylvester matrix equation approach. A new explicit parametrization of all state feedbacks assigning an admissible Jordan form through the minimum number of parameters is provided. The main advantage of this parametrization, unlike previous ones, is that it is explicit; thus, it can be used, not only for numeric, but also symbolic computations. This fact is demonstrated on the problem of parametrization of all output feedbacks assigning an admissible Jordan form, where Gröbner basis method is applied. Developed algorithms for Jordan form assignment by state and output feedback are implemented in the freely available Maple package.
In vitro/in vivo comparison of cefuroxime release from poly(ε‐caprolactone)–calcium sulfate implants for osteomyelitis treatment
Authors: Yaprakci Volkan , Erdemli Ozge , Kayabolen Alisan , Tezcaner Aysen , Bozkurt Fatih , Keskin Dilek
Published: April 2013

This study aimed to investigate the release of cefuroxime axetil (CF) and calcium from poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL)–calcium sulfate (CaS) implants (PCL:CaS 2:1–10% CF; PCL:CaS 2:1–20% CF; PCL:CaS 1:1–10% CF) for treating infectious bone diseases. Bioactivity, crystallinity and strength, and release profiles under standard and pressurized release conditions were studied. PCL:CaS 2:1–20% CF had slower release than 10% loading. These groups had no significant change in CF and Ca release in response to pressure. The PCL:CaS 1:1 group had the slowest release despite having higher CaS, probably due to more compaction of discs. In contrast, pressure caused significant differentiation of CF and Ca2+ release. The presence of CaS enhanced mechanical properties and bioactivity of discs. SEM and XPS results showed calcium‐phosphate containing accumulations on surfaces upon SBF incubation. CF‐loaded implants were applied in a rabbit osteomyelitis model. In vivo CF release was enhanced with increased CaS proportions, suggesting that in vivo release conditions are closer to pressurized in vitro conditions. In the control group, there was still some inflammation in the bone and no complete coverage with bone was achieved in the defect site. Discs provided a suitable surface for regeneration of bone. However, bone formation in the PCL:CaS 1:1 disc implanted group was more complete and regular than in the 2:1 group.
The power of altmetrics on a CV
Authors: Piwowar Heather , Priem Jason
Published: April 2013

Editor's Summary

Alternative metrics demonstrate the value and influence of scholars' work apart from traditional citation counts and can enhance the impact of a CV. Altmetrics provide additional, supplementary information and can balance misleading metrics tied to particular journals. More timely than traditional metrics, altmetrics quickly reveal the impact of recent work and add authority to different types of scholarly products not captured as articles. Altmetrics can capture social media references that escape traditional metrics and reflect public engagement prompted by scholarly writing. The availability of altmetrics expands publishing opportunities to include new venues and stimulates innovative strategies for evaluating research. When included in a CV altmetrics must be accurate, clear and meaningful.
Incorporation of Pure Fullerene into Organoclays: Towards C60‐Pillared Clay Structures
Authors: Tsoufis Theodoros , Georgakilas Vasileios , Ke Xiaoxing , Van Tendeloo Gustaaf , Rudolf Petra , Gournis Dimitrios
Published: April 2013

In this work, we demonstrate the successful incorporation of pure fullerene from solution into two‐dimensional layered aluminosilicate minerals. Pure fullerenes are insoluble in water and neutral in terms of charge, hence they cannot be introduced into the clay galleries by ion exchange or intercalation from water solution. To overcome this bottleneck, we organically modified the clay with quaternary amines by using well‐established reactions in clay science in order to expand the interlayer space and render the galleries organophilic. During the reaction with the fullerene solution, the organic solvent could enter into the clay galleries, thus transferring along the fullerene molecules. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the surfactant molecules, can be selectively removed by either simple ion‐exchange reaction (e.g., interaction with Al(NO3)3 solution to replace the surfactant molecules with Al3+ ions) or thermal treatment (heating at 350 °C) to obtain novel fullerene‐pillared clay structures exhibiting enhanced surface area. The synthesized hybrid materials were characterized in detail by a combination of experimental techniques including powder X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray photoemission, and UV/Vis spectroscopy as well as thermal analysis and nitrogen adsorption–desorption measurements. The reported fullerene‐pillared clay structures constitute a new hybrid system with very promising potential for the use in areas such as gas storage and/or gas separation due to their high surface area.
Evolution of Air Breathing: Oxygen Homeostasis and the Transitions from Water to Land and Sky
Authors: Hsia Connie C. W. , Schmitz Anke , Lambertz Markus , Perry Steven F. , Maina John N.
Published: April 2013

Life originated in anoxia, but many organisms came to depend upon oxygen for survival, independently evolving diverse respiratory systems for acquiring oxygen from the environment. Ambient oxygen tension (PO2) fluctuated through the ages in correlation with biodiversity and body size, enabling organisms to migrate from water to land and air and sometimes in the opposite direction. Habitat expansion compels the use of different gas exchangers, for example, skin, gills, tracheae, lungs, and their intermediate stages, that may coexist within the same species; coexistence may be temporally disjunct (e.g., larval gills vs. adult lungs) or simultaneous (e.g., skin, gills, and lungs in some salamanders). Disparate systems exhibit similar directions of adaptation: toward larger diffusion interfaces, thinner barriers, finer dynamic regulation, and reduced cost of breathing. Efficient respiratory gas exchange, coupled to downstream convective and diffusive resistances, comprise the “oxygen cascade”—step‐down ofPO2that balances supply against toxicity. Here, we review the origin of oxygen homeostasis, a primal selection factor for all respiratory systems, which in turn function as gatekeepers of the cascade. Within an organism's lifespan, the respiratory apparatus adapts in various ways to upregulate oxygen uptake in hypoxia and restrict uptake in hyperoxia. In an evolutionary context, certain species also become adapted to environmental conditions or habitual organismic demands. We, therefore, survey the comparative anatomy and physiology of respiratory systems from invertebrates to vertebrates, water to air breathers, and terrestrial to aerial inhabitants. Through the evolutionary directions and variety of gas exchangers, their shared features and individual compromises may be appreciated. © 2013 American Physiological Society.Compr Physiol3:849‐915, 2013.
Kupffer Cells in the Liver
Authors: Dixon Laura J. , Barnes Mark , Tang Hui , Pritchard Michele T. , Nagy Laura E.
Published: April 2013

Kupffer cells are a critical component of the mononuclear phagocytic system and are central to both the hepatic and systemic response to pathogens. Kupffer cells are reemerging as critical mediators of both liver injury and repair. Kupffer cells exhibit a tremendous plasticity; depending on the local metabolic and immune environment, then can express a range of polarized phenotypes, from the proinflammatory M1 phenotype to the alternative/M2 phenotype. Multiple M2 phenotypes can be distinguished, each involved in the resolution of inflammation and wound healing. Here, we have provided an update on recent research that has contributed to the developing delineation of the contribution of Kupffer cells to different types of liver injury, with an emphasis on alcoholic and nonalcoholic liver diseases. These recent advances in our understanding of Kupffer cell function and regulation will likely provide new insights into the potential for therapeutic manipulation of Kupffer cells to promote the resolution of inflammation and enhance wound healing in liver disease. © 2013 American Physiological Society.Compr Physiol3:785‐797, 2013.
Tunable and White‐Light Emission from Single‐Phase Ca2YF4PO4:Eu2+,Mn2+ Phosphors for Application in W‐LEDs
Authors: Geng Dongling , Shang Mengmeng , Zhang Yang , Cheng Ziyong , Lin Jun
Published: April 2013

Novel phosphors, Ca2YF4PO4:Eu2+,Mn2+, have been prepared by high‐temperature solid‐state reactions. XRD and XPS techniques were used to investigate the purity and composition of the as‐prepared samples. The Ca2YF4PO4:Eu2+,Mn2+ phosphors exhibit broad excitation spectra ranging from 275–420 nm and the emission spectra show a broad blue emission band centered at 455 nm and a yellow emission band centered at 570 nm, which originate from the Eu2+ and Mn2+ ions, respectively. Energy transfer from the Eu2+ to Mn2+ ions in the Ca2YF4PO4 host matrix was observed and studied by luminescence spectrosccopy as well as the lifetime of the Eu2+ ions. The emission color of the Ca2YF4PO4:Eu2+,Mn2+ samples can be adjusted from blue to yellow under excitation by UV radiation of 375 nm by adjusting the Eu2+ and Mn2+ concentrations, and white‐light emission with chromaticity coordinates (0.327, 0.312) was obtained with the Ca2YF4PO4:0.015Eu2+,0.015Mn2+ sample. In addition, the temperature‐dependent photoluminescence of the as‐prepared phosphors has been investigated in detail. The results revealed that the Ca2YF4PO4 host has good thermal stability. The stable structure of the host and tunable luminescence suggest that Ca2YF4PO4:Eu2+,Mn2+ could be regarded as a good candidate for UV LED‐based white‐light emitting diodes.
Phenolic composition of virgin olive oils in cultivars for narrow hedgerow olive orchards
Authors: El Riachy Milad , Priego‐Capote Feliciano , Rallo Luis , Luque‐de Castro María Dolores , León Lorenzo
Published: April 2013

Narrow hedgerows system (NHS) is a new concept of olive orchards characterized by minimum labor requirements, continuous mechanical harvesting, early bearing, high yield, and olive oil quality. In this work, the variability of phenolic composition of virgin olive oils (VOOs) was studied in three cultivars (Arbequina, Arbosana, and Sikitita), two planting systems (NHS: 1975 trees/ha and intensive system (IS): 333 trees/ha) and different harvesting dates (1 October and 26 November for the three cultivars; and three additional dates for the new olive Sikitita: 16 and 29 October; and 12 November). Phenolic compounds were extracted from the obtained VOOs by liquid–liquid extraction with 60:40 v/v methanol/water. The resulting hydroalcoholic extract was analyzed by liquid chromatography – diode‐array detector – fluorescence detection (LC‐DAD‐FD) for individual phenols separation–quantification. Significant differences among genotypes were found for some individual phenols at the first harvesting date. At the second harvesting date, significant differences were found between genotypes and between planting systems (p<0.05). According to the obtained results, the new Sikitita should be harvested at the beginning of the ripening period for obtaining VOO with high phenolic content. Finally, a global agronomic and oil compositional evaluation in NHS of the new cultivars bred specifically is needed for this new olive growing system.

Practical applications: Narrow hedgerow is a new very high density (>1500 trees/ha) olive planting system associated to overhead vineyard harvesters that is increasingly used as it reduces drastically both labor and time needed to harvest the crop. This study focuses on the comparison of the content of phenolic compounds in olive oils originated from narrow hedgerow system and intensive system. The results can be used to determine the best time for harvesting the new olive Sikitita, recently selected for narrow hedgerow system, in order to obtain an olive oil with high phenolic content.
α‐Arylation of saturated fatty acids
Authors: Kolb Nicolai , Hofsäß Robert , Meier Michael A. R.
Published: April 2013

In this study, we take advantage of the α‐CH‐acidity of fatty acid esters in order to obtain α‐arylated fatty acid derivatives. Therefore, fatty acid tert‐butyl esters were deprotonated with strong bases, for instance lithium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide, and subsequently coupled with bromobenzene by palladium‐N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) catalysts. Furthermore, we tested the arylation activity of fatty acid tert‐butyl esters towards 1,4‐dibromobenzene in order to synthesize aryl‐bridged diesters. These diesters were obtained in good yields of 60–80%.
Stereoselective Synthesis of the C31–C41 Spirolactam Fragment of Sanglifehrin A
Authors: Yadav J. S. , Raghavendra Rao K. V. , Kavita Aala , Mohapatra Debendra K.
Published: April 2013

A stereoselective synthesis of the spirolactam fragment (C31–C41) of a highly‐potent immunosuppressant sanglifehrin A is described. The key steps involved in this synthesis are a desymmetrization protocol, Sharpless asymmetric epoxidation, Crimmins syn aldol reaction, Barton–McCombie deoxygenation, and acid‐mediated spirolactamization.
One‐Pot Method for Regioselective Bromin­ation and Sequential Carbon–Carbon Bond‐Forming Reactions of Allylic Alcohol Derivatives
Authors: Kutsumura Noriki , Matsubara Yusuke , Niwa Kentaro , Ito Ai , Saito Takao
Published: April 2013

An efficient one‐pot method for the regioselective bromination of allylic alcohol derivatives (two‐step reaction sequence) followed by Sonogashira, Negishi, or Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reactions in the same reaction vessel (three‐step reaction sequence) has been developed. The key reaction in these one‐pot systems is the regioselective DBU‐promoted trans HBr elimination of vicinal dibromides bearing an adjacent O‐functional group.
A semi‐discrete central scheme for scalar hyperbolic conservation laws with heterogeneous storage coefficient and its application to porous media flow
Authors: Correa M.R. , Borges M.R.
Published: April 2013

In this paper, we develop a new Godunov‐type semi‐discrete central scheme for a scalar conservation law on the basis of a generalization of the Kurganov and Tadmor scheme, which allows for spatial variability of the storage coefficient (e.g. porosity in multiphase flow in porous media) approximated by piecewise constant interpolation. We construct a generalized numerical flux at element edges on the basis of a nonstaggered inhomogeneous dual mesh, which reproduces the one postulated by Kurganov and Tadmor under the assumption of homogeneous storage coefficient. Numerical simulations of two‐phase flow in strongly heterogeneous porous media illustrate the performance of the proposed scheme and highlight the important rule of the permeability–porosity correlation on finger growth and breakthrough curves. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interaction of microseisms with crustal heterogeneity: A case study from the San Jacinto fault zone area
Authors: Hillers G. , Ben‐Zion Y. , Landès M. , Campillo M.
Published: April 2013

We perform a multicomponent analysis to evaluate the validity and limits of noise imaging in the San Jacinto fault zone (SJFZ) area. Estimates of noise propagation and scattering length scales in the area are combined with a noise correlation‐based analysis of variability of noise constituents, excitation regions, and propagation patterns. We evaluate the quality of correlation‐phase and ‐amplitude imaging of tectonic features in the context of observed noise properties. Statistical properties of a regional high‐resolution 3‐D velocity model indicate that propagation of double‐frequency microseism Rayleigh waves is sensitive to medium heterogeneity in the southern California plate boundary area. The analysis of noise correlation functions constructed from records of a regional seismic network suggests stable excitation of microseisms along the southern California coastline. The proximity to the source region together with randomization properties of the heterogeneous medium govern the scattered yet anisotropic character of the wave field. Insignificant travel time errors resulting from the associated imperfect reconstruction of interstation Green's function estimates allow the resolution of a velocity contrast across the SJFZ from noise correlations. However, attenuation estimates are biased by the anisotropic propagation directions. The interaction of the ambient surface wave field with medium heterogeneity facilitates imaging of the velocity structure, but the inversion of the amplitude pattern is limited since it is dominated by wave field instead of medium properties.
Comparison and calibration of nonheating paleointensity methods: A case study using dusty olivine
Authors: Lappe Sophie‐Charlotte L. L. , Feinberg Joshua M. , Muxworthy Adrian , Harrison Richard J.
Published: April 2013

We present a comparative study of nonheating paleointensity methods, with the aim of determining the optimum method for obtaining paleointensities from “dusty olivine” in chondritic meteorites. The REM method, whereby thermoremanent magnetization (TRM) is normalized by saturation isothermal remanent magnetization (SIRM), is shown to “over normalize” TRM in dusty olivine due to the transformation of stable single‐vortex (SV) states to metastable single‐domain (SD) states in a saturating field. The problem of over normalization is reduced in the REMc and REM' methods, which more effectively isolate the high‐coercivity stable SD component of remanence. A calibration factor of f = 1600 (1000 < f < 2900) is derived for the REM' method. Anhysteric remanent magnetization (ARM) is shown to be a near perfect analogue of TRM in the stable SD component of dusty olivine. ARM normalization of the high‐coercivity (100–150 mT) remanence with a calibration factor fARM = 0.91 (0.7 < fARM < 1.2) yields paleofield estimates within ± 30% of the actual field values for SD dominated samples. A Preisach method for simulating TRM acquisition using information extracted from first‐order reversal curve (FORC) diagrams is shown to work well for SD dominated samples, but fails when there is a large proportion of SV remanence carriers. The failure occurs because (1) SV states are not properly incorporated into the Preisach distribution of remanence carriers, and (2) the acquisition of TRM by SV states is not properly modeled by the underlying SD thermal relaxation theory.
Microfractures within the fault damage zone record the history of fault activity
Authors: Mizoguchi Kazuo , Ueta Keiichi
Published: April 2013

For faults without sedimentary covers, there is no robust method to obtain paleoseismic data that is crucial for the prediction of future damaging earthquake events. Sudden failure along faults during earthquakes induces off‐fault damage surrounding such basement faults. We showed that the Quaternary‐active fault has the damage zone characterized by a fracture density that decays exponentially with distance from the fault for both healed and open microfractures. In contrast, Quaternary‐inactive faults contain only healed microfracture damage zone. Cross‐cutting relationships between microfractures and a minimum healing temperature of ~100°C suggest that healed microfractures formed before, and at deeper levels, than did unhealed microfractures. The damage zone defined by open microfractures reflects the recent fault movement during exhumation, associated with erosion and regional uplift, from the maximum depth at which microfractures may remain unhealed. Microfracture analysis can therefore be used to examine the history of basement fault activity.
Bioinformatics Tools for Marker Discovery in Plant Breeding
Authors: Ophir Ron
Published: April 2013

In the last decade, intensive research has been invested in marker‐assisted selection (MAS). In parallel, there have been great advances in high‐throughput genomic technology, such as microarrays and next‐generation sequencing. These technologies overcome barriers for crops that do not have genomic information available and shorten the time from genomic darkness to discovery of an overwhelming number of markers. Consequently, MAS has become an available approach for any crop. Herein, the bioinformatics tools for high‐throughput marker discovery using microarrays and high‐throughput sequencing are reviewed and options for using them in MAS are suggested.
Nickel Hydroxide and Intercalated Graphene with Ionic Liquid Nanocomposite‐modified Electrode for Sensing of Glucose
Authors: Wang Lu , Nie Fei , Zheng Jianbin
Published: April 2013

A novel non‐enzymatic glucose sensor based on nickel hydroxide and intercalated graphene with ionic liquid (G‐IL) nanocomposite modified glass carbon electrode was fabricated. Scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectra and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy of the nanocomposite confirmed the morphology and ingredient of Ni(OH)2 as well as G‐IL. Moreover, experimental results of cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and chronoamperometry indicated the sensing properties of Ni(OH)2 at Ni(OH)2/G‐IL modified electrode towards the typical electrocatalytic oxidation process of glucose at 0.43 V in 0.10 M NaOH. The current response was linearly related to glucose concentration in a range from 0.5 to 500 μM with a detection limit of 0.2 μM (S/N = 3) and sensitivity of 647.8 μA mM−1 cm−2. The response time of the sensor to glucose was less than 2 s. This work may be expected to develop an excellent electrochemical sensing platform of G‐IL as a catalysis carrier.
Comparison of influenza virus replication fidelity in vitro using selection pressure with monoclonal antibodies
Authors: Wong Karen Ka Yin , Rockman Steve , Ong Chi , Bull Rowena , Stelzer‐Braid Sacha , Rawlinson William
Published: April 2013

The replication fidelity of reassortant A/Fujian/411/02(H3N2)‐like influenza viruses was assessed by in vitro detection of escape mutants developing under selective pressure from monoclonal antibodies. The results showed A/Wyoming/3/03(H3N2) possessed lower fidelity relative to the A/California/7/04(H3N2) and A/Wisconsin/57/05(H3N2) viruses through the emergence of mutant viruses carrying H156Q hemagglutinin mutation which allows antibody escape. Using the neutralization assay to compare the fidelity of reassortant pandemic A/California/7/09(H1N1) viruses, the pandemic virus was shown to possess relative higher fidelity compared to A/Wyoming/3/03. This higher fidelity may contribute to the lack of major antigenic changes in the pandemic virus since the emergence in 2009. J. Med. Virol. 85: 1090–1094, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Multiple clusters of A(H1N1)pdm09 virus circulating in severe cases of influenza during the 2010–2011 season: A phylogenetic and molecular analysis of the neuraminidase gene
Authors: Piralla Antonio , Pariani Elena , Campanini Giulia , Rovida Francesca , Ranghiero Alberto , Fiorina Loretta , Amendola Antonella , Zanetti Alessandro , Baldanti Fausto
Published: April 2013

The molecular characterization of circulating influenza A viruses is crucial to detect mutations potentially involved in increased virulence, drug resistance and immune escape. A molecular and phylogenetic analysis of A(H1N1)pdm09 neuraminidase (NA) gene sequences from different patient categories defined according to the severity of influenza infection were analyzed. A total of 126 influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 positive samples from patients with severe infections in comparison with those with moderate and mild infections was performed in Lombardy (Northern Italy, nearly 10 million inhabitants) during the 2010–2011 season. NA sequences included in this study segregated into five distinct clusters. Nineteen amino acid substitutions were detected exclusively in NA sequences of viruses identified in patients with severe or moderate influenza infection. Three of them (F74S, S79P, E287K) were observed in virus strains with the 222G/N hemagglutinin mutation. None of NA sequences under study had mutations related to the resistance to the NA inhibitors. Four out of 126 (3.2%) NA sequences from patients with severe infection lost a N‐linked glycosylation site due to the change from N to K at residue 386. Two additional N‐linked glycosylation sites in the NA stalk region (residues 42 and 44) were found in 12 (9.5%) NA sequences. Sporadic NA mutations were detected in NA viral sequences from critically ill patients, and no variants with reduced sensitivity to NA inhibitors were observed either in treated or untreated patients. J. Med. Virol. 85: 944–952, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High interferon‐stimulated gene ISG‐15 expression affects HCV treatment outcome in patients co‐infected with HIV and HCV
Authors: Katsounas Antonios , Hubbard Jonathan J. , Wang Crystal H. , Zhang Xiaozhen , Dou Diana , Shivakumar Bhavana , Winter Sophie , Schlaak Joerg F. , Lempicki Richard A. , Masur Henry , Polis Michael , Kottilil Shyam , Osinusi Anu
Published: April 2013

Increased baseline expression and lack of induction of interferon‐stimulated genes (ISG) are strong negative predictors of therapeutic response to PegIFN/RBV in patients co‐infected with HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV). This study specifically addressed whether ISG‐15 expression influences therapeutic responses in 20 HIV/HCV genotype‐1 subjects undergoing HCV treatment. Non‐responders had significantly higher baseline expression and selective induction of ISG‐15 after IFN‐α treatment relative to participants with sustained virological response. High baseline levels of ISG‐15 were also associated with less induction of ISG with treatment. These results support a role for ISG‐15 as a prognostic indicator and resistance factor to IFN‐α. J. Med. Virol. 85: 959–963, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.