bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Molecular Analysis of the Shared Epitope Hypothesis: Binding of Arthritogenic Peptides to DRB1*04 Alleles
Authors: Anderson Kirsten M. , Roark Christina L. , Portas Mary , Aubrey Michael T. , Rosloniec Edward F. , Freed Brian M.
Published: February 2016

Objective

The shared epitope hypothesis posits that amino acids QR/KRAA in positions 70–74 of the DRΒ1 chain are responsible for rheumatoid arthritis susceptibility. However, even DRB1*04 alleles containing the shared epitope vary greatly with respect to degrees of susceptibility. This study was undertaken to conduct a molecular examination of the shared epitope hypothesis by measuring binding of arthritogenic peptides to susceptibility and resistance alleles.

Methods

We measured binding of native and citrullinated forms of vimentin66–78 and α‐enolase11–25 and noncitrullinated type II collagen258–272 to 88 class II alleles on Luminex beads (which includes alleles of many varying degrees of susceptibility and resistance). We expressed DRΒ1*04:01, *04:02, and *08:01 in T2 cells and mutated DRΒ1*04:01 at positions 67, 70, 71, 74, and 86 to corresponding residues in DRB1*04:02, *04:03, *04:04, *04:05, and *08:01. Finally, we measured responses of 4 DRΒ1*04:01 restricted collagen258–272 T cell hybridomas against wild‐type DRΒ1*04:01, *04:02, and all mutated alleles.

Results

The most susceptible allele, DRΒ1*04:01, preferentially bound citrullinated vimentin66–78 and citrullinated α‐enolase11–25 over the native forms. DRΒ1*04:02 exhibited no preference for citrullinated peptides, and *08:01 preferred native peptides. Similarly, DRB1*04:01 bound collagen258–272, but *04:02 and *08:01 did not. Mutating DRΒ1*04:01 at positions 70, 71, 74, and 86 to the corresponding residues in DRΒ1*04:02 or *08:01 dramatically reduced the specificity for citrullinated peptides and collagen258–272 binding.

Conclusion

These observations demonstrate that while amino acids at positions 70, 71, and 74 within the shared epitope in DRΒ1 mediate binding and T cell responses of arthritogenic peptides, position 86 outside the shared epitope also plays a critical role.
Dichotomy in the population of young AGN: Optical, radio, and X‐ray properties
Authors: Kunert‐Bajraszewska M.
Published: February 2016

There are numerous examples of radio sources with various sizes which surprisingly exhibit very similar morphology. This observational fact helped to create a standard evolutionary model in which young and small radio‐loud active galactic nuclei (AGN), called gigahertz‐peaked spectrum (GPS) sources and compact steep spectrum (CSS) sources, become largescale radio objects. However, many details of this evolutionary process are still unclear. We explored evolution scenarios of radio‐loud AGN using new radio, optical and X‐ray data of so far unstudied low luminosity compact (LLC) sources and we summarize the results in this paper. Our studies show that the evolutionary track is very “individualized” although we can mention common factors affecting it. These are interaction with the ambient medium and AGN power. The second feature affects the production of the radio jets which, if they are weak, are more vulnerable for instabilities and disruption. Thus not all GPS and CSS sources will be able to develop large scale morphologies. Many will fade away being middleaged (105 yr). It seems that only radio strong, high excitation compact AGN can be progenitors of large‐scale FRII radio sources. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The high‐energy view of young radio sources: X‐ray and gamma‐ray observations
Authors: Migliori G.
Published: February 2016

According to theoretical predictions, young extragalactic radio sources may release a significant fraction of their total radiative power in the high‐energy domain. X‐ray emission is expected from the central active galactic nucleus (AGN), and from the extended radio components, jet, hot spots, and lobes. The X‐rays should also trace the interactions of the radio source with its environment, and reveal to us how the young source clears its way out of the host galaxy and finally reaches the giant stage. Observational campaigns with Chandra and XMM‐Newton telescopes have confirmed that young radio sources are indeed relatively X‐ray luminous. Recently, efforts have been undertaken to obtain a complete X‐ray view of the whole population of young sources, focusing on the youngest and faintest objects. At the same time, the study of the X‐ray properties of the samples of quasars and galaxies provides us with clues on the nature of the observed high‐energy emission. In specific cases, X‐ray and multi‐wavelength data allow for a direct test of the different models. A detection in the y‐ray band would represent a robust proof of a non‐thermal, high‐energy component and the launch of the Fermi telescope has opened the hunt to young radio sources in the y‐ray window. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Radio properties of the γ ‐ray emitting CSO candidate 2234+282
Authors: An T. , Cui Y.‐Z. , Gabányi K. É. , Frey S. , Baan W. A. , Zhao W.
Published: February 2016

Most of the γ ‐ray emitting active galactic nuclei (AGN) are blazars, although there is still a small fraction of non‐blazar AGN in the Fermi /LAT catalog. Among these misaligned γ ‐ray‐emitting AGN, a few can be classified as Compact Symmetric Objects (CSOs). In contrast to blazars in which γ ‐ray emission is generally thought to originate from highly beamed relativistic jets, the source of γ ‐ray emission in unbeamed CSOs remains an open question. The rarity of the γ ‐ray emitting CSOs is a mystery as well. Here we present the radio properties of the γ ‐ray CSO candidate 2234+282. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Observations from national Italian fixed radiofrequency monitoring network
Authors: Rowley Jack T. , Joyner Ken H.
Published: February 2016

We analyzed a database of more than 50 million data points from the national Italian fixed radiofrequency (RF) field monitoring network that was operational between June 2002 and November 2006. We applied a modified Regression on Order Statistics approach to reanalyze the database and to deal with the large proportion of entries (39.8%) below detection sensitivity of the probe systems. We found no more than an 18% variation in annual wideband levels during the 2002–2006 period. Mean value for mobile communications band was 0.047 μW/cm2 for the period 2005–2006. Findings of this analysis are consistent with similar previous studies and we conclude that mean environmental RF levels from cellular mobile communications systems are typically less than 0.1 μW/cm2. Bioelectromagnetics. 37:136–139, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Biosensitive element in the form of immobilized luminescent photobacteria for detecting ecotoxicants in aqueous flow‐through systems
Authors: Efremenko Elena N. , Maslova Olga V. , Kholstov Alexander V. , Senko Olga V. , Ismailov Anvar D.
Published: February 2016

We demonstrated the possibility of long‐term and efficient application of a biosensitive element (BE) in the form of Photobacterium phosphoreum photobacteria immobilized in poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) cryogel for detecting various ecotoxicants (Zn2+, Cu2+, Hg2+, Pb2+, 2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, 2,6‐dimethylphenol, pentachlorophenol, coumaphos, malathion, chlorpyrifos and methyl parathion) in flow‐through media. The range of detectable concentrations of ecotoxicants was determined at 1 × 10−8 to 1 × 10−4 M for heavy metal ions and at 1 × 10−8 to 1 × 10−5 M for phenol derivatives and organophosphorus pesticides. Immobilized cells of photobacteria quantitatively reacted with these ecotoxicants; cell sensitivity exhibited no flow rate dependence in the range from 45 to 180 mL/h. At a constant concentration of ecotoxicant in the flow, the bioluminescence quenching profile of immobilized cells demonstrated an integral response. The BE could remain in a flow‐through medium for at least 10 days while retaining 95% of luminescent activity in the absence of ecotoxicants. The BE tested in this work was demonstrated to have a long shelf life (> 60 weeks) at −80°C without changes in the baseline level of bioluminescence. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Propensity score-matched outcomes analysis of the liver-first approach for synchronous colorectal liver metastases
Authors: Welsh F K S , Chandrakumaran K , John T G , Cresswell A B , Rees M
Published: February 2016

Background

Liver resection before primary cancer resection is a novel strategy advocated for selected patients with synchronous colorectal liver metastases (sCRLM). This study measured outcomes in patients with sCRLM following a liver-first or classical approach, and used a validated propensity score.

Methods

Clinical, pathological and follow-up data were collected prospectively from consecutive patients undergoing hepatic resection for sCRLM at a single centre (2004–2014). Cumulative disease-free survival (DFS), cancer-specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS) were calculated by means of Kaplan–Meier analysis. Survival differences were analysed in the whole cohort and in subgroups matched according to Basingstoke Predictive Index (BPI).

Results

Of 582 patients, 98 had a liver-first and 467 a classical approach to treatment; 17 patients undergoing simultaneous bowel and liver resection were excluded. The median (i.q.r.) BPI was significantly higher in the liver-first compared with the classical group: 8·5 (5–10) versus 8 (4–9) (P = 0·030). Median follow-up was 34 months. The 5-year DFS rate was lower in the liver-first group than in the classical group (23 versus 45·6 per cent; P = 0·001), but there was no difference in 5-year CSS (51 versus 53·8 per cent; P = 0·379) or OS (44 versus 49·6 per cent; P = 0·305). After matching for preoperative BPI, there was no difference in 5-year DFS (37 versus 41·2 per cent for liver-first versus classical approach; P = 0·083), CSS (51 versus 53·2 per cent; P = 0·616) or OS (47 versus 49·1 per cent; P = 0·846) rates.

Conclusion

Patients with sCRLM selected for a liver-first approach had more oncologically advanced disease and a poorer prognosis. They had inferior cumulative DFS than those undergoing a classical approach, a difference negated by matching preoperative BPI.
Psychologically informed practice (PIP) for staff working with offenders with personality disorder: A pragmatic exploratory trial in approved premises
Authors: Bruce Matt , Horgan Harry , Kerr Roz , Cullen Alexis , Russell Sam
Published: February 2016

Background

Rates of reoffending and recall are high among released male prisoners with personality disorder. There is a need for innovative intervention to reduce offending and increase staff confidence in working with such men.

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a novel intervention consisting of training and consultation termed ‘psychologically informed practice’, within community‐based ‘approved premises’ for offenders.

Method

A pragmatic exploratory trial was used to compare two premises in a South London borough licenced under criminal justice legislation to provide supervised accommodation for selected released prisoners. One used the PIP intervention for 12 months while the other (comparison group) functioned in a similar way but without this intervention. Outcome measures included staff attitudes and offender behaviours.

Results

Significant improvements were observed only for the intervention group. Compared with baseline measures, significantly higher levels of knowledge and understanding of personality disorder as well as a greater sense of personal accomplishment were observed in staff who have been trained and supported in psychologically informed practice. Significantly lower rates of warnings and recalls to prison were observed only for the intervention group at 6 months following initial staff training.

Conclusion

Psychologically informed practice appears to be sufficiently advantageous for staff and offenders, and the trial feasible, which is a full‐scale multi‐centre trial, seems warranted. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Financial and Ecological Evaluation of Hydrogen Production Processes on Large Scale
Authors: Machhammer Otto , Bode Andreas , Hormuth Wolfgang
Published: February 2016

Hydrogen is widely seen as energy carrier of the future. Different technologies are under development to produce hydrogen at competitive cost but with significantly reduced carbon footprint. Two conventional technologies, namely, methane steam reforming and coal gasification, are compared based on product cost and carbon footprint with four new technologies, i.e., metal‐oxide cycle, water electrolysis, biomass gasification, and methane pyrolysis. To evaluate the carbon footprint for methane pyrolysis, system extension and differential methods are applied. For the boundary conditions selected here, methane pyrolysis yields very good values for product cost and carbon footprint. Therefore, a cross industry technology development of methane pyrolysis was initiated.
Confined‐Volume Effect on the Thermal Properties of Encapsulated Phase Change Materials for Thermal Energy Storage
Authors: De Castro Paula F. , Ahmed Adham , Shchukin Dmitry G.
Published: February 2016

We have encapsulated the heat exchange material, n‐docosane, into polyurethane capsules of different sizes. Decreasing the size of the capsules leads to changes of the crystallinity of phase‐change material as well as melting/crystallization temperature. The novelty of the paper includes 1) protection of the nanostructured energy‐enriched materials against environment during storage and controlled release of the encapsulated energy on demand and 2) study of the structure and surface‐to‐volume properties of the energy‐enriched materials dispersed in capsules of different sizes. The stability of energy nanomaterials, influence of capsule diameter on their energy capacity, homogeneity and operation lifetime are investigated.
Asymmetric, Three‐Component, One‐Pot Synthesis of Spiropyrazolones and 2,5‐Chromenediones from Aldol Condensation/NHC‐Catalyzed Annulation Reactions
Authors: Wang Lei , Li Sun , Chauhan Pankaj , Hack Daniel , Philipps Arne R. , Puttreddy Rakesh , Rissanen Kari , Raabe Gerhard , Enders Dieter
Published: February 2016

A novel one‐pot, three‐component diastereo‐ and enantioselective synthesis of spiropyrazolones has been developed involving the aldol condensation of an enal to generate α,β‐unsaturated pyrazolones, which react with a second equivalent of enal through an N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC)‐catalyzed [3+2] annulation. The desired spirocyclopentane pyrazolones are obtained in moderate to good yields and good to excellent stereoselectivities. Alternatively, starting from cyclic 1,3‐diketones, 2,5‐chromenediones are available through [2+4] annulation.
ChemInform Abstract: Copper‐Catalyzed Carboxylation of Alkenylzirconocenes with Carbon Dioxide Leading to α,β‐Unsaturated Carboxylic Acids.
Authors: Wang Sheng , Shao Peng , Chen Chao , Xi Chanjuan
Published: February 2016

The in situ preparation of the required alkenylzirconocenes is described allowing the synthesis of the title products in a one‐pot process under mild conditions starting from internal alkynes.
ChemInform Abstract: One‐Step Preparation of Pyrrolo[1,4]benzodiazepine Dilactams: Total Synthesis of Oxoprothracarcin, Boseongazepines B and C.
Authors: Smits Gints , Zemribo Ronalds
Published: February 2016

The title preparation directly couples unprotected anthranilic acids [e.g.(I)] with proline esters [e.g.(II)] or proline acid (VII).
ChemInform Abstract: How to Form a Phosphate Anhydride Linkage in Nucleotide Derivatives
Authors: Sherstyuk Yuliya V. , Abramova Tatyana V.
Published: February 2016

Review: [82 refs.
Erprobung eines thermochemischen Langzeitwärmespeichers auf Basis eines Zeolith/Salz‐Komposits
Authors: Nonnen Thomas , Beckert Steffen , Gleichmann Kristin , Brandt Alfons , Unger Baldur , Kerskes Henner , Mette Barbara , Bonk Sebastian , Badenhop Thomas , Salg Frank , Gläser Roger
Published: February 2016

Für einen thermochemischen Langzeitwärmespeicher auf Basis von Wassersorption wurde ein Kompositmaterial bestehend aus CaCl2 auf Zeolith Ca‐X ausgehend von binderfreiem Zeolith Na‐X‐Granulat durch Ionenaustausch mit Ca2+‐Kationen und Imprägnierung mit CaCl2 im Technikumsmaßstab hergestellt. Die in einer Laborapparatur ermittelte materialbezogene Wärmespeicherdichte des Kompositmaterials erreicht gegenüber den salzfreien Zeolithen Ca‐X bzw. Na‐X eine Steigerung von bis zu 45 % bzw. 68 %. Für den Zeolith Na‐X wurde ein verfahrenstechnisches Konzept mit Förderung des Speichermaterials durch einen Vor‐ und Hauptreaktor in einem „Hardware in the Loop“‐Prüfstand demonstriert.
Polarized light‐based scheme to correlate Mueller matrix elements and casein foam properties
Authors: Qian Shaoyu , Chen John J. J.
Published: February 2016

Experimental measurements were made on the scattering of polarized light to determine all six independent elements of the Mueller matrix for three types of casein foams with different bubble size distributions. These elements were correlated with the liquid fraction and the bubble size distribution which were measured independently during free foam drainage by multiple linear regression analysis. A correlation between M11 and M22 and the liquid fraction and the bubble size distribution with a high correlation coefficient has been obtained. M12 shows dependence only on the bubble size distribution but not on the liquid fraction. M33 is associated with both parameters. For initially monodispersed casein foams, M34 is almost independent of the liquid fraction and the bubble size distribution, whereas M44 is significantly correlated with the mean bubble diameter. For the bidispersed casein foam, both M34 and M44 are mainly associated with the liquid fraction.
Catalytic conversion of glycerol to acrolein over MCM‐41 by the grafting of phosphorus species
Authors: Ma Tianlin , Ding Jianfei , Shao Rong , Yun Zhi
Published: February 2016

The gas‐phase dehydration of aqueous glycerol to acrolein was investigated using phosphorus‐containing MCM‐41 (HP‐MCM‐41) mesoporous molecular sieves, which were prepared via impregnation of phosphoric acid on the MCM‐41. The catalysts were characterized by XRD, nitrogen adsorption‐desorption, FTIR, NH3‐TPD, and pyridine‐FTIR measurements. Nitrogen adsorption studies suggested that the uniform framework of MCM‐41 remained unchanged even after grafting phosphorus species on its surface. NH3‐TPD analysis confirmed that moderate acidic sites had a positive effect on the formation of acrolein. Pyridine‐FTIR results indicated that MCM‐41 with grafted phosphorus species can noticeably enhance the percentage of Brønsted acid sites. Moreover, Brønsted acid sites facilitated the production acrolein selectively confirmed by catalytic results. The effects of H3PO4 loading, calcination temperature, reaction temperature, and glycerol concentrations were also examined. The optimized 25HP‐MCM‐41 catalyst showed an 84 % selectivity of acrolein with glycerol conversion of 97 % at 320 °C.
Performance and Characteristics of Aerobic Granular Sludge Degrading 2,4,6‐Trichlorophenol at Different Volumetric Organic Loading Rates
Authors: Milia Stefano , Porcu Roberta , Rossetti Simona , Carucci Alessandra
Published: February 2016

Aerobic granular sludge represents a promising option for the treatment of wastewater contaminated by 2,4,6‐trichlorophenol (2,4,6‐TCP). Nevertheless, the need for high volumetric organic loading rates (vOLR) still constitutes a practical drawback, since the supply of an external carbon source for the treatment of low‐strength industrial wastewater would imply significant costs at full‐scale. This study investigates the possibility to sustain 2,4,6‐TCP degrading aerobic granules with low vOLR, preserving long‐term process performance. Sodium acetate was used as external carbon source for aerobic granules degrading 2,4,6‐TCP (20 mg/L), and its concentration in the influent was progressively reduced from 1000 to 420 mg/L. The effects on process performance, granule properties and microbial population dynamics were investigated: complete 2,4,6‐TCP removal was maintained, specific removal rates increased from 2.2 ± 0.5 to 4.3 ± 0.4 mg 2,4,6‐TCP/g VSS per hour (mg2,4,6‐TCP/gVSS · h) and a shift of granule diameter toward smallest size fractions occurred. Moreover, the qualitative evaluation of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) inclusions in microbial cells suggested their active role in 2,4,6‐TCP degradation. The results showed that for low‐strength wastewater containing toxic substances like 2,4,6‐TCP, high concentrations of the external carbon source are required during the process start‐up, but not in the long‐term operation, thus reducing the operating costs significantly without compromising process performance: this represents an important step toward process scale‐up.
Hemoglobin‐Catalyzed Oxidation for Remediation of Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons Contaminated Soil
Authors: Jho Eun Hea , Keum Haein , Pyo Sunyeon , Kang Guyoung
Published: February 2016

The degradability of total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH)‐contaminated soils by hemoglobin‐catalyzed oxidation with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was investigated using 8 g H2O2 kg−1 soil and 3.3 g hemoglobin kg−1 soil. When both hemoglobin and H2O2 were used to initiate the oxidation reaction, approximately 76% TPH removal was achieved, while only 26% was removed when only H2O2 was used. This shows that the TPH removal can be enhanced in the presence of hemoglobin as a catalyst. In addition, the toxic effect of the soil treated by the hemoglobin‐catalyzed oxidation, determined using Microtox®, was reduced by about three times compared to the untreated soil. Overall, this study shows that hemoglobin may successfully act as a catalyst enhancing TPH removal in soils.
Unilateral uveitis masquerade syndrome caused by diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma diagnosed using multiparametric flow cytometry of the aqueous humor
Authors: Monsalvo Silvia , Serrano Cristina , Prieto Elena , Fernández‐Sanz Guillermo , Puente Maria‐Camino , Rodriguez‐Pinilla Maria , Garcia Raso Aranzazu , Llamas Pilar , Cordoba Raul
Published: February 2016

Background

The uveitis masquerade syndromes (UMS) are a group of ocular diseases that may mimic chronic intraocular inflammation. Many malignant entities such as non‐Hodgkin's lymphomas may masquerade as uveitis. We report a case of an HIV‐positive patient with masquerade syndrome presenting unilateral uveitis.

Case report

45‐year‐old Caucasian man with a diagnosis of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL). The patient was diagnosed by a biopsy of an abdominal mass which showed fragments of gastric mucosa with diffuse growth of neoplastic cells. At diagnosis, the patient suffered from unilateral blurring of vision and a sudden decrease of left‐eye visual acuity. A slit‐lamp examination of the left eye revealed a diagnosis of anterior uveitis. The patient exhibited no signs of posterior uveitis. An anterior‐chamber paracentesis was performed and analyzed by multiparameter flow cytometry (MFC), showing cells CD45, CD19, CD20, CD22, and CD38 positives, and moderate expression of CD10 with kappa light chain restriction, showing a monoclonal B‐cell population. The patient received CHOP‐R with intrathecal methotrexate followed by consolidation high dose methotrexate obtaining a complete response which is ongoing.

Conclusion

Differential diagnosis between chronic uveitis and ocular lymphoma may be challenging. We advocate anterior‐chamber paracentesis in cases of refractory uveitis in patients with hematologic malignancies. © 2016 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Crystallization and polymorphic behavior of enzymatically produced sunflower oil based cocoa butter equivalents
Authors: Kadivar Sheida , De Clercq Nathalie , Danthine Sabine , Dewettinck Koen
Published: February 2016

A multi‐methodological approach was used to study the isothermal crystallization of cocoa butter (CB) in the presence of sunflower oil based cocoa butter equivalents (CBEs). pNMR, DSC, oscillatory rheology, XRD, and PLM were used for this purpose. All the techniques confirmed that at 20°C isothermal crystallization of all the blends is a two‐step process with formation of α crystals in the first step and formation of β' crystals in the second step. The blends with high amount of CBEs contained more high‐melting triacylglycerols (TAGs) and diacylglycerol (DAG) in compare with CB acting as seed crystals enhancing the formation of α‐ crystals in the first crystallization step. Therefore, the induction time of the first crystallization step was inversely related to the amount of CBE. In contrast, the subsequent polymorphic transition was delayed by the presence of the CBE due to their low‐melting TAGs. However, adding up to 5% CBE did not change the Foubert's parameters for isothermal crystallization significantly. All the blends (except 5% HOSO CBE), had α mediated β' crystallization. Picturing of the microstructure showed that for the CB and the blends up to 50% large microstructures, indicative of the βV polymorph developed during storage. At 100%, a dense network of spherulites was formed at the beginning of the crystallization period, but upon further storage, no large morphological changes were observed.

Practical applications: In recent years, the production of CB has been delayed owing to its cultivation difficulty and low yield due to pest attack, while the world cocoa prices have increased with rising demand and higher chocolate consumption. Therefore, there is a need to develop low‐priced and appropriate alternatives to CB. Accordingly, in this study two sunflower oil based CBEs were produced with fatty acid mixtures in the presence of immobilized 1,3‐regiospecific lipase. The results from this study could help the fats and oils industries to extend their knowledge on the crystallization and polymorphic behavior of two enzymatically produced sunflower oil based CBEs.

In this study two types of sunflower oil (high oleic and high stearic high oleic) with fatty acid mixtures were inter‐esterified in a solvent‐free system catalyzed by 1,3 specific enzyme, Lipozyme RM IM, to produce sunflower oil based CBEs containing three main triacylglycerols of cocoa butter, that is, POP, POSt and StOSt. A multi‐methodological approach was used to study the isothermal crystallization of CB in the presence of enzymatically produced sunflower oil based CBEs. DSC, pNMR, oscillatory rheology, XRD, and PLM were used for this purpose.
Legitimate lies: The relationship between omission, commission, and cheating
Authors: Pittarello Andrea , Rubaltelli Enrico , Motro Daphna
Published: February 2016

Across four experiments, we show that when people can serve their self‐interest, they are more likely to refrain from reporting the truth (lie of omission) than actively lie (lie of commission). We developed a novel online “Heads or Tails” task in which participants can lie to win a monetary prize. During the task, they are informed that the software is not always accurate, and it might provide incorrect feedback about their outcome. In Experiment 1, those in the omission condition received incorrect feedback informing them that they had won the game. Participants in commission condition were correctly informed that they had lost. Results indicated that when asked to report any errors in the detection of their payoff, participants in the omission condition cheated significantly more than those in the commission condition. Experiment 2 showed that this pattern of results is robust even when controlling for the perceived probability of the software error. Experiments 3 and 4 suggest that receiving incorrect feedback makes individuals feel more legitimate in withholding the truth, which, in turn, increases cheating.
Effect of vine‐shoots toasting on the generation of high added value volatiles
Authors: Sánchez‐Gómez R. , Zalacain A. , Alonso G. L. , Salinas M. R.
Published: February 2016

This paper shows the volatile composition changes of two vine‐shoots cultivars (a neutral, Airén, and an aromatic, Moscatel) when are subjected to different toasting treatments: light (180 °C for 15 min), medium (180 °C for 30 min) and high (180 °C for 45 min). The vine‐shoots volatile profile for both vine‐shoots varieties was determined by HS‐SBSE‐GC/MS and compared with those of the oak wood used as reference. Results indicated that the higher the toasting, the greater the increment of most wood and varietal volatiles. The vine‐shoots wood volatile composition was similar to the oak one, which is known to be very valuable in case of oak aged wines. The volatiles responsible for a varietal contribution were interesting in both vine‐shoots, especially the well‐known Moscatel particular aroma that showed up at medium toasting. These results suggest the potential exploitation of vine‐shoots to be used with oenological purposes for their high added volatile contribution. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation of KOH‐doped PVA/PSSA Solid Polymer Electrolyte for DMFC: The Influence of TiO2 and PVP on Performance of Membranes
Authors: de Oliveira A. H. P. , Nascimento M. L. F. , de Oliveira H. P.
Published: February 2016

The development of low cost alkaline anion solid exchange membranes requires high ionic conductivity, low liquid uptake, strong mechanical properties and chemical stability. PVA/PSSA blends cross‐linked with glutaraldehyde and decorated with titanium dioxide nanoparticles introduce advantages relative to the pristine membrane of PVA and PVA/PVP membranes due to their improved electrical response and low methanol uptake/ swelling ratio allowing their use in alkaline direct methanol fuel cells.
Dihydroartemisinin prevents liver fibrosis in bile duct ligated rats by inducing hepatic stellate cell apoptosis through modulating the PI3K/Akt pathway
Authors: Chen Qin , Chen Lianyun , Wu Xiafei , Zhang Feng , Jin Huanhuan , Lu Chunfeng , Shao Jiangjuan , Kong Desong , Wu Li , Zheng Shizhong
Published: February 2016

As a frequent event following chronic insult, liver fibrosis triggers wound healing reactions, with extracellular matrix components accumulated in the liver. During liver fibrogenesis, activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is the pivotal event. Fibrosis regression can feasibly be treated through pharmacological induction of HSC apoptosis. Herein we showed that dihydroartemisinin (DHA) improved liver histological architecture, decreased hepatic enzyme levels, and inhibited HSCs activation in the fibrotic rat liver. DHA also induced apoptosis of HSCs in such liver, as demonstrated by reduced distribution of α‐SMA‐positive cells and the presence of high number of cleaved‐caspase‐3‐positive cells in vivo, as well as by down‐regulation of Bcl‐2 and up‐regulation of Bax. In addition, in vitro experiments showed that DHA significantly inhibited HSC proliferation and led to dramatic morphological alterations in HSCs. we found that DHA disrupted mitochondrial functions and led to activation of caspase cascades in HSCs. Mechanistic investigations revealed that DHA induced HSC apoptosis through disrupting the phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway and that PI3K specific inhibitor LY294002 mimicked the pro‐apoptotic effect of DHA. DHA is a promising candidate for the prevention and treatment of liver fibrosis. © 2016 IUBMB Life, 68(3):220–231, 2016
Pharmacodynamic Actions of a Long-Acting PTH Analog (LA-PTH) in Thyroparathyroidectomized (TPTX) Rats and Normal Monkeys
Authors: Shimizu Masaru , Joyashiki Eri , Noda Hiroshi , Watanabe Tomoyuki , Okazaki Makoto , Nagayasu Miho , Adachi Kenji , Tamura Tatsuya , Potts John T , Gardella Thomas J , Kawabe Yoshiki
Published: February 2016

Hypoparathyroidism is a disease of chronic hypocalcemia and hyperphosphatemia due to a deficiency of parathyroid hormone (PTH). PTH and analogs of the hormone are of interest as potential therapies. Accordingly, we examined the pharmacological properties of a long-acting PTH analog, [Ala1,3,12,18,22, Gln10,Arg11,Trp14,Lys26]-PTH(1-14)/PTHrP(15-36) (LA–PTH) in thyroparathyroidectomized (TPTX) rats, a model of HP, as well as in normal monkeys. In TPTX rats, a single intravenous administration of LA-PTH at a dose of 0.9 nmol/kg increased serum calcium (sCa) and decreased serum phosphate (sPi) to near-normal levels for longer than 48 hours, whereas PTH(1-34) and PTH(1-84), each injected at a dose 80-fold higher than that used for LA-PTH, increased sCa and decreased sPi only modestly and transiently (<6 hours). LA-PTH also exhibited enhanced and prolonged efficacy versus PTH(1-34) and PTH(1-84) for elevating sCa when administered subcutaneously (s.c.) into monkeys. Daily s.c. administration of LA-PTH (1.8 nmol/kg) into TPTX rats for 28 days elevated sCa to near normal levels without causing hypercalciuria or increasing bone resorption markers, a desirable goal in the treatment of hypoparathyroidism. The results are supportive of further study of long-acting PTH analogs as potential therapies for patients with hypoparathyroidism. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
COMMUNITY SETTING‐SPECIFIC AND SERVICE‐SEEKING STIGMA TOWARD CHILDREN WITH EMOTIONAL AND BEHAVIORAL DISORDERS AND THEIR FAMILIES
Authors: Mann Abbey K. , Heflinger Craig Anne
Published: February 2016

This study investigates the stigma associated with mental health service seeking and community settings among children with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) and their parents living in rural areas. Parents (n= 185) rated stigma toward children with EBD and their families in school contexts significantly higher than the other community settings, and they rated stigma related to the context of church significantly lower than the others, with neighborhood and workplace falling in between. Stigma in each of these settings was a significant predictor of perceived service‐seeking stigma. These findings suggest the need for further examination of stigma toward children with EBD and their families in community settings and for additional research investigating service‐seeking stigma and its relationship to service‐seeking behavior and use.
THE MEDIATING EFFECT OF FUTURE EXPECTATIONS ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN NEIGHBORHOOD CONTEXT AND ADOLESCENT BULLYING PERPETRATION
Authors: Schmidt Carissa J. , Pierce Jennifer , Stoddard Sarah A.
Published: February 2016

Bullying is an important public health issue among adolescents. Few studies have examined how neighborhood context affects adolescent bullying. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between neighborhood collective efficacy and bullying perpetration and sought to determine whether future expectations mediated this relationship. A sample of 196 7th‐grade students (60% female; 27% White) from a Midwestern school completed measures assessing past 30‐day bullying perpetration, neighborhood collective efficacy, and future expectations. The effect of neighborhood collective efficacy on bullying was fully mediated by future expectations. Our findings suggest that neighborhood collective efficacy is associated with lower bullying perpetration by increasing adolescents’ expectations for the future. Strong social relationships increase adolescents’ perceptions of a positive future. Youth with more positive expectations of the future may be less likely to participate in bullying if they perceive the possible outcomes of bullying to be negative and an impediment to goals.
EXPOSURE TO URBAN RATS AS A COMMUNITY STRESSOR AMONG LOW‐INCOME URBAN RESIDENTS
Authors: German Danielle , Latkin Carl A.
Published: February 2016

We examined exposure and perceptions of rats and perceived rat eradication response among 448 low‐income urban residents in Baltimore, Maryland, recruited using targeted outreach. Bivariate and multivariate regression compared those reporting high and low rat prevalence. Only 35% of respondents indicated rats were not a problem on their block. Rats were most problematic when seen approximately daily on one's block (35%) or elsewhere in the neighborhood (50%). Increased neighborhood disorder and depressive symptoms were independently associated with higher rat prevalence. Perceived neighbor and city response was associated with lower rat prevalence and stronger individual eradication. Attention is needed to appreciate and address psychosocial effect and environmental justice aspects of rat infestation in urban areas. Daily block sightings may be a useful threshold for evaluating problem rat areas based on resident perceptions and assessment indicator for rat eradication. Multilevel community‐based rat eradication approaches may help reduce rat prevalence and community stress.
Effect of Renal and Hepatic Impairment on the Pharmacokinetics of Cabozantinib
Authors: Nguyen Linh , Holland Jaymes , Ramies David , Mamelok Richard , Benrimoh Natacha , Ciric Sabrina , Marbury Thomas , Preston Richard A. , Heuman Douglas M. , Gavis Edith , Lacy Steven
Published: February 2016

Cabozantinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor approved for the treatment of patients with progressive, metastatic medullary thyroid cancer. Two clinical pharmacology studies were conducted to characterize single‐dose pharmacokinetics (PK) of cabozantinib in renally or hepatically impaired subjects. Study 1 enrolled 10 subjects, each with mild or moderate impairment of renal function; 12 healthy subjects were matched to the moderate group for age, sex, and body mass index (BMI). Study 2 enrolled 8 males each with mild or moderate hepatic impairment; 10 healthy males were matched to the moderate group for age, BMI, and ethnicity. All subjects received one 60 mg cabozantinib oral capsule dose followed by PK sampling over 21 days. Plasma concentration and protein binding were determined by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry and equilibrium dialysis, respectively. PK parameters were computed using noncompartmental methods. Geometric least squared mean (LSM) ratios for plasma cabozantinib AUC0‐∞ for impaired to normal organ function cohorts were (1) approximately 30% and 6% higher in subjects with mild and moderate renal impairment, respectively, and (2) approximately 81% and 63% higher in subjects with mild and moderate hepatic impairment, respectively. The percentage of unbound drug was slightly higher in both moderately impaired cohorts. No deaths or discontinuations due to adverse events occurred in either study. Cabozantinib should be used with caution in subjects with mild or moderate renal impairment. Subjects with mild or moderate hepatic impairment administered cabozantinib should be monitored closely for potential treatment‐emergent drug toxicity that may necessitate a dose hold or reduction.
Enhanced triterpene acid production by Ganoderma lucidum using a feeding stimulus integrated with a two‐stage pH‐control strategy
Authors: Wang Xiao‐Ling , Yang Hailong , Liu Gao‐Qiang
Published: February 2016

BACKGROUND

Triterpenes (especially triterpene acids) are some of the major physiologically active components of Ganoderma lucidum. However, submerged fermentation techniques for triterpenes have not been optimized for commercial use, and the total triterpene yield is still very low. The aim of this work was to develop a two‐stage pH‐control strategy integrated with the use of an ether extract from the medicinal insect, Catharsius molossus (EECM), as a stimulus for enhanced G. lucidum triterpene acid production.

RESULTS

Triterpene acid production of 302.76 mg L−1 was obtained in G. lucidum cultured with the EECM; this production was higher by 60% than that of the control cultures not fed the EECM. Based on the EECM feeding method, a new two‐stage pH‐control strategy was integrated, resulting in triterpene acid yields of 361.47 mg L−1. Subsequent studies optimized the interaction between EECM feeding and two‐stage pH‐control strategies, which resulted in an optimal EECM concentration of 185.89 mg L−1 and optimal pH values of 5.07 in the first 72 h incubation and 4.37 after 72 h, with a maximum triterpene acid concentration of 449.37 mg L−1. This represented a 137% increase compared with that of the control cultures. Furthermore, when a 150 L fermenter was used under these conditions, a triterpene acid concentration of 431.83 mg L−1 was achieved.

CONCLUSIONS

The enhanced production of triterpene acid in submerged cultures of G. lucidum was achieved using an EECM feeding stimulus integrated with a two‐stage pH‐control strategy at large scale. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Combined ultrasound‐targeted microbubble destruction and polyethylenimine‐mediated plasmid DNA delivery to the rat retina: enhanced efficiency and accelerated expression
Authors: Li Hongli , Qian Jin , Yao Chunfang , Wan Caifeng , Li Fenghua
Published: February 2016

Background

Gene therapy has potential in the treatment of refractory retinal diseases. It is important to develop an effective delivery system in the retina. The present study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of ultrasound (US)‐targeted microbubble destruction (UTMD)‐mediated polyethylenimine (PEI) to the rat retina.

Methods

Gene transfer was examined by injecting PEI/plasmid DNA (pDNA) with or without microbubbles (MBs) into the subretinal space of rats that were then exposed to US. We investigated enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) expression on flat fundus oculi and performed quantitative analysis. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was used to observe tissue damage.

Results

UTMD significantly enhanced PEI/pDNA transfection efficiency safely by increasing both the transgene expression per cell and the percentage of transfected cells of the retina. PEI/pDNA combined with UTMD significantly increased the number of DNA gene copies and the mRNA level in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and neural retina, respectively, compared to PEI/pDNA alone.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrates that enhanced and accelerated pDNA expression can be achieved in the retina/RPE cellsin vivoby UTMD physical techniques combined with a PEI chemical vector. Our study provides useful information for furtherin vivoretinal gene therapy work. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hitmen and the Spaces of Contract Killing: The Doorstep Hitman
Authors: Brolan Liam , Wilson David , Yardley Elizabeth
Published: February 2016

This exploratory paper considers the spaces where hits take place within Britain. It concentrates on those hits that have occurred on the doorstep of the victim and offers analysis of why this location might be chosen. It suggests an emergingmodus operandi(MO) of doorstep hits and how knowledge of this MO might be useful to law enforcement. Two cold cases are re‐considered in light of this MO. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Psychology of Corporate Social Responsibility: Strategic Implications
Authors: Moratis Lars
Published: February 2016

How can organizational leaders deliver a credible corporate social responsibility (CSR) message to an increasingly distrustful and skeptical audience of internal and external stakeholders? The answer may lie in the field of psychology. Consideration of the principles of reciprocity, the halo effect, and costly signaling, as well as the potential value in retooling traditional cause‐related marketing efforts, ultimately may lead practitioners to more effectively develop, deploy, and communicate their firm's CSR strategies. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enabling Quality in the Tourism Industry: An Evaluation of Business Excellence in Greek Hotels
Authors: Tsiotras George D. , Tsiotras Penelope G. , Fotiadis Thomas A.
Published: February 2016

Economic crisis, technological innovation, and shifting social and cultural norms have changed the level of competition in the tourism industry. In Greece, tourism has a direct impact on the national economy, and hotels are its most prominent industry. The five enablers of quality contained in the European Foundation for Quality Management Excellence Model offer a framework for studying business excellence in the Greek hotel industry. Based on those enablers, a survey of 34 five‐star properties reveals that although most of the hotels are working toward business excellence, a number of areas still call for improvement, including benchmarking, the evaluation of historical data, and various aspects of human resources management. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Novel immunoassay and rapid immunoaffinity chromatography method for the detection and selective extraction of naringin in Citrus aurantium
Authors: Qu Huihua , Zhang Yue , Qu Baoping , Cheng Jinjun , Liu Shuchen , Feng Shenglan , Wang Qingguo , Zhao Yan
Published: February 2016

In this work, a novel monoclonal antibody specific for naringin was prepared and characterized. Subsequently, an indirect competitive enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay for naringin was developed, with an effective range from 4.8 to 156 ng/mL naringin. Next, an immunoaffinity column was obtained by coupling anti‐naringin monoclonal antibodies to CNBr‐activated Sepharose 4B and a rapid immunoaffinity chromatography assay for naringin was developed. The immunoaffinity column was used to separate naringin from Citrus aurantium. The results showed that 1 g of the dry Sepharose 4B can couple 10 mg of immunoglobulin G. And the immunoaffinity column can efficiently and specifically capture approximately 250 μg of naringin without cross reacting with its structurally similar compounds. Moreover, our results indicate that the application of immunoaffinity chromatography can simplify the pretreatment and the isolation process greatly compared to conventional methods, providing a potential method for extracting the target component from structurally similar compounds in natural products.
Bone‐anchored hearing aid and skin graft removal with subsequent cochlear implantation
Authors: Britt Christopher J. , Coughlin Adam R. , Gubbels Samuel P.
Published: February 2016

We describe a novel technique of scalp flap rearrangement for cochlear implant (CI) candidates who have previously undergone ipsilateral bone‐anchored hearing aid (BAHA) placement. One patient with single‐sided deafness (SSD) underwent removal of a BAHA with subsequent scalp rearrangement for coverage of the implant site. After adequate healing of the scalp rotational flap, he underwent uncomplicated cochlear implantation without soft tissue complications. With increasing utilization of CIs in SSD, there will be more patients undergoing cochlear implantation who have previously had a BAHA. We present a novel method for accomplishing this goal while minimizing the risk of soft tissue complications.

Laryngoscope, 126:2601–2604, 2016
Wound‐healing factors can prime head and neck cancer cells to increase their tumor‐forming capacity
Authors: Lindgren Gustaf , Kjellén Elisabeth , Wennerberg Johan , Ekblad Lars
Published: February 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

We investigated whether exposing a wound‐healing‐sensitive cell line to human wound fluid (HWF) could prime the cells to increase their tumor‐forming ability in nude mice and, if so, whether this ability can be inhibited by pharmacological substances.

Study Design

Experimental animal model.

Methods

Take rate was measured in BALB/c nude mice after pretreatment of the cells with HWF using human serum and fetal bovine serum as controls. Inhibition of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) with S3I‐201 tocilizumab, and of interleukin 6 receptor (IL6R) with tocilizumab was performed.

Results

Preincubation with HWF resulted in a significant increase in take rate compared to controls. The increase in take rate could be decreased by both STAT3 and IL6R inhibition.

Conclusions

The results indicate that head and neck squamous cell cancer cells might be stimulated to increase their tumor‐forming ability both close to a surgical wound and at more distant locations, as a consequence of the wound‐healing response. The work also suggests new treatment modalities aimed at decreasing these stimulatory effects.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 126:E213–E217, 2016