bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon Aerogels Supported Pt Nanoparticles as Electrocatalysts for Methanol Oxidation in Alkaline Media
Authors: Liu Yong , Wei Min , Qu Jianying , Mao Liqun
Published: November 2013

Carbon aerogels (CAs) were prepared by sol‐gel polycondensation of resorcinol and formaldehyde with BET surface area of 616 m2 g−1 and the average pore size of 9.8 nm. The prepared CAs were used as supports for Pt nanoparticles for methanol oxidation in alkaline media. In comparison with Pt supported on commercial Vulcan XC‐72R carbon (Pt/C) electrocatalysts, Pt supported on CAs (Pt/CAs) electrocatalysts exhibited higher peak current density and more negative onset potential toward methanol oxidation. The effects of different parameters such as NaOH concentration, methanol concentration, and scan rate on the methanol oxidation reaction were investigated in detail. The results showed that the Pt/CAs electrocatalysts had promising application for methanol oxidation in alkaline media.
An Efficient Microwave‐Assisted Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of Novel 2‐Amino 3‐Cyano Pyridine Derivatives using Two Reusable Solid Acids as Catalysts
Authors: Thakrar Shailesh , Bavishi Abhay , Radadiya Ashish , Vala Hardevsinh , Parekh Shrey , Bhavsar Dhairya , Chaniyara Ravi , Shah Anamik
Published: November 2013

Two solid acids, Fe3+ K‐10 montmorillonite clay and HY‐zeolite, have been employed efficiently for synthesis of 2‐amino 3‐cyano pyridines 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, 4j, 4k, 4l, 4m, 4n, 4o, 4p, 4q, 4r, 4s, 4t, 4u, 4v, 4w, 4x by multicomponent reaction of 3‐acetyl 4‐hydroxy coumarin 1a, 1b, 1c, 1,3‐diphenyl‐1H‐pyrazole‐4‐carbaldehyde 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 2e, 2f, 2g, 2h, malononitrile 3, and ammonium acetate. Both the catalysts are recoverable and recyclable. The main significant of this procedure is short reaction time, high yields, easy workup procedure, and being environmentally friendly. The structures of all the compounds have been well characterized by IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and mass spectral data. All the synthesized compounds were screened for their antimicrobial and antifungal activities.
Iodine‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Cyclopenta[c]quinoline Derivatives via Imino Diels–Alder Reaction
Authors: Wang Wei , Jiang Hong , Zhang Mei‐Mei , Wang Xiang‐Shan
Published: November 2013

A mild and efficient method for the synthesis of cyclopenta[c]naphtho[2,3‐f]quinoline and cyclopenta[c]pyrazolo[4,3‐f]quinoline derivatives via an imino Diels–Alder reaction of aromatic aldehyde, anthracen‐2‐amine, or 1H‐indazol‐5‐amine and cyclopentanone catalyzed by iodine is described. This novel procedure has the advantages of mild reaction condition, high yields, and metal‐free catalyst.
Effect of Substituents on the Regioselectivity of the Reaction of α‐Tosyloxyketones with Thioureas in Acidic Medium: Access to 2‐Aminothiazoles and 2‐Imino‐2,3‐dihydrothiazoles
Authors: Aggarwal Ranjana , Kumar Rajiv , Sanz Dionisia , Claramunt Rosa M.
Published: November 2013

Regioselective condensation of α‐tosyloxyacetophenones 1 and N‐substituted thioureas 2 in acidic medium to give regioisomers 2‐aminothiazoles I and 2‐imino‐2,3‐dihydrothiazoles II is largely influenced by the substituents present on 1 and 2. A mechanism, supported by DFT calculations has been proposed to explain the observed regioselectively.
Regioselective Synthesis of Pyrazoles and Isoxazoles with Cyclopropanated Side‐Chain
Authors: Bendrath Franziska , Falodun Abiodun , Abilov Zharylkasyn A. , Villinger Alexander , Langer Peter
Published: November 2013

Pyrazoles and isoxazoles with cyclopropanated side‐chain were prepared by cyclization of cyclopropanated 1,3,5‐tricarbonyl compounds with hydrazine and hydroxylamine, respectively. The regioselectivity is influenced by the reaction conditions.
T1 Mapping using variable flip angle SPGR data with flip angle correction
Authors: Liberman Gilad , Louzoun Yoram , Ben Bashat Dafna
Published: November 2013

Purpose

To improve the calculation of T1 relaxation time from a set of variable flip‐angle (FA) spoiled gradient recalled echo images.

Materials and Methods

The proposed method: (a) uses a uniform weighting of all FAs, (b) takes into account global inaccuracies in the generation of the prescribed FAs by estimating the actual FAs, and (c) incorporates data‐driven local B1 inhomogeneity corrections. The method was validated and its accuracy tested using simulated data, phantom, and in vivo experiments. Results were compared with existing analysis methods and to inversion recovery (IR). Consistency was assessed by means of repeated scans of two subjects. Reference values were obtained from eight healthy subjects from various brain regions and compared with literature values.

Results

The method accurately and consistently estimated T1 values in all cases. The method was more robust, in comparison with the standard method, to the choice of FA set; to inaccuracies in generation of the prescribed FAs (in simulated data, T1 estimation error was 12.1 ms versus 235.5 ms); demonstrated greater consistency (in vivo study showed interscan T1 difference of 80 ms versus 356 ms); and achieved a better agreement with IR on phantom (median absolute difference of 123.8 ms versus 790 ms). Reference T1 values were 883/801 ms for female/male in white matter and 1501/1349 ms in gray matter, within the range previously reported.

Conclusion

The proposed method overcomes some inaccuracies in FA production, providing more accurate estimation of T1 values compared with standard methods, and is applicable for currently available data. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2014;40:171–180. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparing average breast fat content results from two different protocols at 1.5T and 3T: Can the data be pooled?
Authors: Chavez Sofia , Stanisz Greg
Published: November 2013

Purpose

To compare the total breast fat content computed from two separate studies, performed on different scanners and with different protocols, with the goal of defining a relationship to allow pooling the data.

Materials and Methods

Twelve healthy volunteer women were scanned with two different protocols on the same day. The protocols differed in four important aspects: vendors (GE vs. Philips), scanner main magnetic field strengths (1.5T vs. 3T), pulse sequences (2D fast spin‐echo vs. 3D spoiled gradient‐echo), and water/fat separation techniques. The resulting water and fat maps were processed with in‐house software to extract breast tissue slice‐wise. Percent fat content was calculated for each breast, per subject.

Results

Total percent fat contents (averaged across both breasts) resulting from both protocols were plotted against each other, on a subject‐by‐subject basis, revealing a strong correlation (R2 > 0.99), with an overestimation of the fat content from Protocol 1 relative to Protocol 2. The proposed T2 TE‐correction for Protocol 1 improves the correlation while decreasing the discrepancy between protocols.

Conclusion

Total breast fat content of healthy women resulting from the two protocols can be pooled using a linear relationship. The proposed T2 TE‐corrected Protocol 1 is expected to yield accurate fat content. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2014;40:890–898. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Assessing liver fibrosis: Comparison of arterial enhancement fraction and diffusion‐weighted imaging
Authors: Bonekamp David , Bonekamp Susanne , Ou Hsin‐You , Torbenson Michael S. , Corona‐Villalobos Celia Pamela , Mezey Esteban , Kamel Ihab R.
Published: November 2013

Purpose

Noninvasive markers have been developed to reduce the need for liver biopsy. The aim of this study was to compare the strength of association of the arterial enhancement fraction (AEF), apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), and serum biomarkers for staging hepatic fibrosis.

Materials and Methods

Eighty‐five patients with chronic liver disease underwent triple‐phase contrast‐enhanced MRI, used to calculate AEF, and diffusion‐weighted MRI (b = 0,750 s/mm2), used to calculate ADC. Hepatic fibrosis was staged according METAVIR criteria. The overall association of the four biomarkers (AEF, ADC, aspartate aminotransferase (AST)/alanine aminotransferase (ALT) ratio, and aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index [APRI]) was compared using nonparametric tests and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, using histopathologic analysis as the reference standard.

Results

AEF and ADC values differed significantly between histopathologic fibrosis stages. AEF values correlated with fibrosis stage, ADC values correlated negatively with fibrosis stage. Compared with ADC, AEF showed a trend toward an improved capability of discriminating fibrosis stages. A weighted composite score of AEF and ADC had significantly better diagnostic accuracy than ADC alone (P ≤ 0.023). Imaging parameters had a significantly better diagnostic accuracy than AST/ALT ratio or APRI.

Conclusion

AEF may be able to detect the presence of mild, moderate, and advanced liver fibrosis, and its value is increased with concomitant use of ADC.J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2014;40:1137–1146. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enhanced prepulse inhibition and low sensitivity to a dopamine agonist in HESR1 knockout mice
Authors: Kanno Kouta , Kokubo Hiroki , Takahashi Aki , Koide Tsuyoshi , Ishiura Shoichi
Published: November 2013

Transcription factor Hesr family genes are important in neuronal development. We demonstrated previously that HESR1 and HESR2 modified expression of the dopamine transporter (DAT) reporter gene. HESR‐family genes have been investigated in development, but their functions, especially in relation to behaviors regulated by dopamine, in adult animals remain unclear. In the present study, we investigated the effects of Hesr1 and Hesr2 on behavior. A behavioral test battery to examine spontaneous activity, anxiety‐like behavior, aggressive behavior, pain sensitivity, and sensorimotor gating was conducted in Hesr1 and Hesr2 knockout (KO) mice. Enhanced prepulse inhibition (PPI), which is a form of sensorimotor gating, was observed in only Hesr1 KO mice; other behavioral traits were mostly comparable to wild‐type animals in both the Hesr1 and the Hesr2 KO lines. Next, we used a dopamine agonist, apomorphine, to confirm the involvement of the dopaminergic system. Injection of apomorphine reduced the enhanced PPI in Hesr1 KO mice. Additionally, dose‐dependent sensitivity to the agonist was lower in the Hesr1 KO mice than in wild‐type mice, suggesting that the enhanced PPI resulted from this alteration in dopamine sensitivity. Furthermore, DAT mRNA was downregulated in Hesr1 KO mice, whereas the dopamine D1 and D2 receptors were comparable. These findings suggest Hesr1 to be a novel factor that affects dopamine sensitivity and the sensorimotor gating system. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A new function for glycine GlyT2 transporters: Stimulation of γ‐aminobutyric acid release from cerebellar nerve terminals through GAT1 transporter reversal and Ca2+‐dependent anion channels
Authors: Milanese Marco , Romei Cristina , Usai Cesare , Oliveri Martina , Raiteri Luca
Published: November 2013

Glycine GlyT2 transporters are localized on glycine‐storing nerve endings. Their main function is to accumulate glycine to replenish synaptic vesicles. Glycine was reported to be costored with γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) in cerebellar interneurons that may coexpress glycine and GABA transporters, and this is confirmed here by confocal microscopy analysis showing coexpression of GAT1 and GlyT2 transporters on microtubule‐associated protein‐2‐positive synaptosomes. It was found that GABA uptake elicited glycine release from cerebellar nerve endings by various mechanisms. We investigated whether and by what mechanisms activation of glycine transporters could mediate release of GABA. Nerve endings purified from cerebellum were prelabeled with [3H]GABA and exposed to glycine. Glycine stimulated [3H]GABA release in a concentration‐dependent manner. The glycine effect was insensitive to strychnine or to 5,7‐dichlorokynurenate but it was abolished when GlyT2 transporters were blocked. About 20% of the evoked release was dependent on external Ca2+ entered by reversal of plasmalemmal Na+/Ca2+exchangers. A significant portion of the GlyT2‐mediated release of [3H]GABA (about 50% of the external Ca2+‐independent release) occurred by reversal of GABA GAT1 transporters. Na+ ions, reaching the cytosol during glycine uptake through GlyT2, activated mitochondrial Na+/Ca2+ exchangers, causing an increase in cytosolic Ca2+, which in turn triggered a Ca2+‐induced Ca2+ release process at inositoltrisphosphate receptors. Finally, the increased availability of Ca2+ in the cytosol allowed the opening of anion channels permeable to GABA. In conclusion, GlyT2 transporters not only take up glycine to replenish synaptic vesicles but can also mediate release of GABA by reversal of GAT1 and permeation through anion channels. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Retracted: Mechanisms and effects of curcumin on spatial learning and memory improvement in APPswe/PS1dE9 mice
Authors: Wang Pengwen , Su Caixin , Li Ruisheng , Wang Hong , Ren Ying , Sun Haiyun , Yang Jinduo , Sun Jianning , Shi Jing , Tian Jinzhou , Jiang Shucui
Published: November 2013

Evidence suggests that curcumin, the phytochemical agent in the spice turmeric, might be a potential therapy for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Its antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory properties have been investigated extensively. Studies have also shown that curcumin can reduce amyloid pathology in AD. The underlying mechanism, however, is complex and is still being explored. In this study, we used the APPswe/PS1dE9 double transgenic mice, an AD model, to investigate the effects and mechanisms of curcumin in the prevention and treatment of AD. The water maze test indicated that curcumin can improve spatial learning and memory ability in mice. Immunohistochemical staining and Western blot analysis were used to test major proteins in β‐amyloid aggregation, β‐amyloid production, and β‐amyloid clearance. Data showed that, 3 months after administration, curcumin treatment reduced Aβ40, Aβ42, and aggregation of Aβ‐derived diffusible ligands in the mouse hippocampal CA1 area; reduced the expression of the γ‐secretase component presenilin‐2; and increased the expression of β‐amyloid‐degrading enzymes, including insulin‐degrading enzymes and neprilysin. This evidence suggests that curcumin, as a potential AD therapeutic method, can reduce β‐amyloid pathological aggregation, possibly through mechanisms that prevent its production by inhibiting presenilin‐2 and/or by accelerating its clearance by increasing degrading enzymes such as insulin‐degrading enzyme and neprilysin. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Poor fen succession over ombrotrophic peat related to late Holocene increased surface wetness in subarctic Quebec, Canada
Authors: VAN BELLEN SIMON , GARNEAU MICHELLE , ALI ADAM A. , LAMARRE ALEXANDRE , ROBERT ÉLISABETH C. , MAGNAN GABRIEL , ASNONG HANS , PRATTE STEVE
Published: November 2013

Northern peatlands act as archives of environmental change through their sensitivity to water balance fluctuations, while being significant contributors to global greenhouse gas dynamics. Subarctic fens in north‐eastern Canada are characterized by a dominance of pools and flarks. We aimed to reconstruct the late Holocene hydrological conditions of these fens to establish the timing of the initiation of pool and flark formation and possible links with climate. Testate amoebae and plant macrofossils from five cores, sampled in three fens, were analysed to infer water tables with chronologies based on14C and210Pb dating. All sites showed the presence of relatively dry, ombrotrophic conditions with abundantPiceafrom 5000 cal a BP, followed by a first shift to wet, poor fen conditions with pool and flark development around 3000 cal a BP and a subsequent wet shift after ∼800 cal a BP. These trends coincide with previously observed Neoglacial and Little Ice Age cooler and wetter conditions and therefore climate may well have been a dominant factor in the initiation and development of pools and flarks over the late Holocene. The effect of anticipated climate change on subarctic peatlands remains unclear, although wetter conditions might enhance pool expansion to the detriment of terrestrial components.
Enhancement of lattice defect signatures in graphene and ultrathin graphite using tip‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Rickman R. H. , Dunstan P. R.
Published: November 2013

Understanding the role of defects in graphene is the key to tailoring the properties of graphene and promoting the development of graphene‐based devices. Defects can affect the electronic properties of a device while also offering a means by which to functionalize the local properties. Using tip‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS), heightened defect sensitivity was demonstrated on graphene edges, folds, and overlapping regions. Measurements confirm that TERS can provide simultaneous structural and spectral information on a localized scale, hence offering defect characterization on a scale that is not obtainable using conventional Raman spectroscopy. This study observed preferential enhancement of the D band signal on multilayered graphene and ultrathin graphite; in addition, other key defect signatures were also enhanced and detected. We present our findings in relation to theoretical predictions of graphene defect signatures and an analysis of the sensitivity of TERS in measuring two‐dimensional structures. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Serum human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 levels as a real‐time marker for tumor burden in breast cancer patients
Authors: Kim Hyun‐Ah , Lee Jin Kyung , Kim Eun‐Kyu , Seol Hyesil , Noh Woo Chul
Published: November 2013

Background and Objectives

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) status, an important factor in the treatment of breast cancer patients, is usually determined using primary tumor tissue samples; however, the HER2 status of metastatic lesions may differ from that of the primary tumor, but biopsies cannot be performed in all cases. Here, we investigated whether serum HER2 levels can serve as an alternative to assessments of HER2 expression in cancer tissues.

Methods

Between April 2008 and July 2009, serum HER2 levels were evaluated in 295 patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer, 1,068 patients under follow‐up care without recurrence after curative surgery, and 82 patients with disease recurrence.

Results

Among 303 patients with histologically confirmed HER2‐positive tumors, the rates of serum HER2 elevation were 9.2% in preoperative patients, 0.9% in patients under follow‐up care without recurrence, and 44.0% in patients with recurrent disease; for patients with HER2‐negative primary tumors, the corresponding values were 0.8%, 2.6%, and 15.8%, respectively.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that serum HER2 could be a useful real‐time marker for tumor burden and recurrence in patients with HER2‐positive disease. J. Surg. Oncol. 2014 109:421–425. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Treatment of metastatic melanoma with electrochemotherapy
Authors: Campana Luca G. , Testori Alessandro , Mozzillo Nicola , Rossi Carlo Riccardo
Published: November 2013

Superficially metastatic melanoma still represents a challenging situation for oncologists and a distressing condition for patients. In this circumstance, local treatment by electrochemotherapy, that is, the combination of brief permeabilizing electric pulses with a low‐toxicity anticancer drug, can be a valuable treatment option in selected patients who are ineligible/refractory to systemic treatments or require rapid palliation of symptomatic cutaneous disease. J. Surg. Oncol. 2014 109:301–307. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Acidity‐Promoted Cellular Uptake and Drug Release Mediated by Amine‐Functionalized Block Polycarbonates Prepared via One‐Shot Ring‐Opening Copolymerization
Authors: Wang Hua‐Fen , Jia Hui‐Zhen , Chu Yan‐Feng , Feng Jun , Zhang Xian‐Zheng , Zhuo Ren‐Xi
Published: November 2013

This paper reports a drug nanovehicle self‐assembled from an amine‐functionalized block copolymer poly(6,14‐dimethyl‐1,3,9,11‐tetraoxa‐6,14‐diaza‐cyclohexadecane‐2,10‐dione)‐block‐poly(1,3‐dioxepan‐2‐one) (PADMC‐b‐PTeMC), which is prepared by controlable ring‐opening block copolymerization attractively in a “one‐shot feeding” pathway. The copolymers display high cell‐biocompatibility with no apparent cytotoxicities detected in 293T and HeLa cells. Due to their amphiphilic nature, PADMC‐b‐PTeMC copolymers can self‐assemble into nanosized micelles capable of loading anticancer drugs such as camptothecin (CPT) and doxorubicin (DOX). In particular, the outer PADMC shell endows the PADMC‐b‐PTeMC nanomicelles with pH‐dependent control over the micellar morphology, cell uptake efficiency, and the drug release pattern. Confocal inspection reveals the remarkably enhanced cellular internalization of drug loaded micelles by cancerous HeLa cells at relatively lower pH 5.8 simulating the mildly acid microenvironment in tumors. Along with the acidity‐triggered volume expansion of micelles, an accelerated CPT release in vitro occurs. The obtained results adumbrate the possibility of completely biodegradable PADMC‐b‐PTeMC as pH‐sensitive drug carriers for tumor chemotherapy.
Dual‐Functional PEI–Poly(γ‐Cholesterol‐l‐Glutamate) Copolymer for Drug/Gene Co‐delivery
Authors: Zhang Jinkun , Fang Dailong , Ma Qing , He Zhiyao , Ren Ke , Zhou Rui , Zeng Shi , Li Bo , He Lili , He Gu , Song Xiangrong
Published: November 2013

Novel dual‐functional PEI‐poly(γ‐cholesterol‐l‐glutamate) (PEI‐PCHLG) copolymers are developed for the first time. A series of PEI‐PCHLG (PEI‐1, PEI‐2, PEI‐3, and PEI‐4) with various PEI percentages and molecular weights are successfully synthesized, among which the poor organic solvent solubility of PEI‐1 precludes its further application. The other three copolymers can spontaneously self‐assemble into micelles; the critical micelle concentration (CMC) values are 0.66, 1.3, and 0.95 μmol L−1, respectively. PEI‐2 and PEI‐4, with lower CMC, are worth being further developed as promising drug carriers because of their resistance to dilution in circulation after systemic administration. However, PEI‐4 can form smaller‐sized micelles than PEI‐2 and has similar in vitro cytotoxicity to PEI. Thus, PEI‐4 is further investigated. PEI‐4 micelles can not only incorporate docetaxel (DTX) with high encapsulation efficiency (91.0%) and drug loading (4.3%), but also load pDNA efficiently at a ratio of 8:1 (w/w). DTX‐loaded PEI‐4 micelles (DTX‐PEI‐4) can also carry genes with the same gene‐binding capacity as PEI‐4 micelles. The above three micelles (DTX‐PEI‐4, pDNA‐PEI‐4, and pDNA/DTX‐PEI‐4) are sub‐micrometer‐sized and spherical. The results indicate that PEI‐4 containing 28.9% PEI, one of the PEI‐PCHLG copoly­mers, is a potential carrier for gene delivery, drug delivery, or even drug/gene co‐delivery.

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Microfluidic‐Assisted Synthesis of Waterborne and Solvent‐Free Urea‐Crosslinked Polydimethylsiloxane Microparticles
Authors: Dalmais Adrien , Serra Christophe A. , Chang Zhenqi , Bouquey Michel , Muller René
Published: November 2013

Submillimetric and highly monodisperse urea‐crosslinked polydimethylsiloxane microparticles are synthesized without solvent with a microfluidic‐assisted process comprising a co‐axial capillaries microdevice. This device allows for the continuous‐flow production of double droplets in a stream of an aqueous solution. The core of the droplets is composed of a pure isocyanate compound (IPDI). The shell is composed of either a dicarboxylic‐acid‐functionalized silicon oil or a PDMS‐amide prepolymer resulting from the reaction of the former silicon oil with an amine compound (Jeffamine). By preventing the isocyanate groups to get in contact with the water, the shell phase constrains the polyaddition reaction inside the droplets, leading to the formation of urea‐crosslinked polydimethylsiloxane microparticles in the size range of 580–620 μm.
Electrical Conductive Adhesives Enhanced with High‐Aspect‐Ratio Silver Nanobelts
Authors: Amoli Behnam Meschi , Marzbanrad Ehsan , Hu Anming , Zhou Y. Norman , Zhao Boxin
Published: November 2013

The utilization of high‐aspect‐ratio silver nanobelts (NBs) is reported with the typical silver micro flakes to develop advanced electrical conductive adhesive (ECA) composite materials. Ag NBs (10–40 nm thick, 100–400 nm wide and 1–10 µm long) were synthesized by chemical reduction of silver nitride. The incorporation of a small amount of the Ag NBs (NBs to flakes weight‐ratio K = 0.03) into a conventional ECA with 60 wt% Ag micro flakes results in an electrical conductivity enhancement by 1300%. It is also found that adding a 2 wt% (K = 0.03) of the NBs into a conventional ECA with 80 wt% Ag flakes reduced the bulk resistivity to 3 × 10−5 Ω · cm for the hybrid ECAs, which is comparable to that of a typical eutectic solder, showing great potential as an alternative electrical interconnect materials.
Synergistic Effect of Functionalized Silica Nanoparticles and a β‐Nucleating Agent for the Improvement of the Mechanical Properties of a Propylene/Ethylene Random Copolymer
Authors: Papageorgiou Dimitrios G. , Vourlias George , Bikiaris Dimitrios N. , Chrissafis Konstantinos
Published: November 2013

In the current study, neat (SiO2) and methacrylate‐modified silica nanoparticles (SiO2‐MAA) are added simultaneously with a β‐nucleated agent in propylene/ethylene random copolymer (PPR). From Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra, it is found that modified silica can be joined covalently with PPR macromolecular backbones with the help of poly(propylene‐g‐maleic anhydride) copolymer, improving dispersion of nanoparticles and increasing their adhesion with the PPR matrix. The formation of β‐phase crystals was evaluated by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) along with the crystallinity, crystal size and d‐spacing values. Tensile tests and dynamic mechanical analysis confirmed the reinforcement effect of the nanoparticles as well as the effect of β‐crystals on the final properties of the nanocomposites.
Orlov's equivalence and maximal Cohen‐Macaulay modules over the cone of an elliptic curve
Authors: Galinat Lennart
Published: November 2013

We describe a method for doing computations with Orlov's equivalence between the bounded derived category of certain hypersurfaces and the stable category of graded matrix factorisations of the polynomials describing these hypersurfaces. In the case of a smooth elliptic curve over an algebraically closed field we describe the indecomposable graded matrix factorisations of rank one. Since every indecomposable maximal Cohen‐Macaulay module over the completion of a smooth cubic curve is gradable, we obtain explicit descriptions of all indecomposable rank one matrix factorisations of smooth cubic potentials. Finally, we explain how to compute all indecomposable matrix factorisations of higher rank with the help of a computer algebra system.
Tuning Polarity of Polyphenylene Dendrimers by Patched Surface Amphiphilicity—Precise Control over Size, Shape, and Polarity
Authors: Stangenberg René , Saeed Irfan , Kuan Seah Ling , Baumgarten Martin , Weil Tanja , Klapper Markus , Müllen Klaus
Published: November 2013

In the ideal case, a precise synthesis yields molecules with a constitutional as well as a conformational perfectness. Such a case of precision is demonstrated by the synthesis of semi‐rigid amphiphilic polyphenylene dendrimers (PPDs). Polar sulfonate groups are precisely placed on their periphery in such a manner that patches of polar and non‐polar regions are created. Key structural features are the semi‐rigid framework and shape‐persistent nature of PPDs since the limited flexibility introduces a nano‐phase‐separated amphiphilic rim of the dendrimer. This results in both attractive and repulsive interactions with a given solvent. Frustrated solvent structures then lead to a remarkable solubility in solvents of different polarity such as toluene, methanol, and water or their mixtures. Water solubility combined with defined surface structuring and variable hydrophobicity of PPDs that resemble the delicate surface textures of proteins are important prerequisites for their biological and medical applications based upon cellular internalization.

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Whole soy, but not purified daidzein, had a favorable effect on improvement of cardiovascular risks: A 6‐month randomized, double‐blind, and placebo‐controlled trial in equol‐producing postmenopausal women
Authors: Liu Zhao‐min , Ho Suzanne C. , Chen Yu‐ming , Ho Stella , To Kenneth , Tomlinson Brian , Woo Jean
Published: November 2013

Scope

Equol is produced by the intestinal bacteria from isoflavone daidzein. Studies have reported the health benefits of soy can only present or more pronounced in equol producers. This 6‐month randomized controlled trial examined the effect of whole soy (soy flour) and purified daidzein on cardiovascular biomarkers and carotid intima‐media thickness (CIMT) in prehypertensive postmenopausal women who were equol producers.

Methods and results

Two hundred seventy eligible women were randomized to either one of the three treatments: 40 g soy flour (whole soy group), 40 g low‐fat milk powder + 63 mg daidzein (daidzein group), or 40 g low‐fat milk powder (placebo group) daily each for 6 months. Fasting venous samples were obtained at baseline and end of trial for testing glucose, lipids, high sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP), and free fatty acid. Changes in common CIMT were also assessed. Serum LDL‐C decreased by 7.95% (95% CI: −15.09∼−0.81%) and 6.32% (95% CI: −13.45∼0.08%), and serum hs‐CRP decreased by 0.164 (95% CI: −0.309∼−0.019) and 0.054 (95% CI: −0.199∼0.012) in the whole soy group compared with daidzein and milk placebo groups, respectively. No significant change in CIMT was found.

Conclusion

Whole soy, but not purified daidzein, had a beneficial effect on reduction of LDL‐C and hs‐CRP among prehypertensive equol‐producing postmenopausal women.
A rounded corner triangular patch antenna for dual‐frequency application
Authors: Tiang Jun Jiat , Islam M T. , Misran Norbahaih , Mandeep J. Singh
Published: November 2013

A single layer of equilateral triangular patch antenna is achieved, which operates at 870 MHz and 2.45 GHz suitable for UHF and microwave radio frequency identification application. By shaping the corners of triangular patch, the antenna excites the radiation modes of TM10 and TM21 and suppresses the unwanted TM20 mode to give boresight of directed radiation patterns. This also alters the excited surface distribution of the radiating patch to enhance the antenna gain. A good agreement is obtained between the simulated and experimental results. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:69–72, 2014
Abnormal brain anatomical topological organization of the cognitive‐emotional and the frontoparietal circuitry in major depressive disorder
Authors: Qin Jiaolong , Wei Maobin , Liu Haiyan , Yan Rui , Luo Guoping , Yao Zhijian , Lu Qing
Published: November 2013

Purpose

Despite the increasing understanding of major depressive disorder (MDD) using neuroimaging techniques, the topological organization of anatomical networks underlying MDD remains unclear.

Methods

The topological organization of brain anatomical networks was explored using complex network approaches. Diffusion tensor image data of 29 MDD patients and 30 healthy controls were collected. Network metrics such as strength, efficiency, and centrality were computed after the construction of brain anatomical networks. Between‐group differences and correlations with clinical measurements were further explored.

Results

Compared with the healthy controls, MDD patients exhibited widely damaged information interactions in both cognitive‐emotional circuitry and frontoparietal circuitry. Moreover, the centralities in the right prefrontal cortex involving the right middle frontal gyrus and the right gyrus rectus were negatively correlated with the duration of disease. Additionally, the centrality in the right inferior frontal gyrus (triangular part) and the efficiency in the right superior frontal gyrus (orbital part) were both positively related to the depression severity.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that altered connectivity involved in affective and cognitive processing procedures might contribute to the pathogenesis of MDD. Magn Reson Med 72:1397–1407, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Heterogeneity of axonal pathology in chinese patients with giant axonal neuropathy
Authors: Wang Lu , Zhao Danhua , Wang Zhaoxia , Zhang Wei , Lv He , Liu Xiao , Meng Lingchao , Yuan Yun
Published: November 2013

Introduction: Giant axonal neuropathy (GAN) is a rare autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disorder caused by mutations in the GAN gene. Herein we report ultrastructural changes in Chinese patients with GAN. Methods: General clinical assessment, sural nerve biopsy, and genetic analysis were performed. Results: Sural biopsy revealed giant axons in 3 patients, 2 with a mild phenotype and 1 with a classical phenotype. Ultrastructurally, all patients had giant axons filled with closely packed neurofilaments. In addition, the classical patient had some axons containing irregular tubular‐like structures. GAN mutation analysis revealed novel compound heterozygous c.98A>C and c.158C>T mutations in the BTB domain in 1 mild patient, a novel homozygous c.371T>G mutation in the BACK domain in another mild patient, and a novel c.1342G>T homozygous mutation in the Kelch domain in the classical patient. Conclusion: Closely packed neurofilaments in giant axons are common pathological changes in Chinese patients with GAN, whereas irregular tubular‐like structures appear in the classical type of this neuropathy. Muscle Nerve 50:200–205, 2014
Minimum violations and predictive meta‐rankings for college football
Authors: Coleman B. Jay
Published: November 2013

This article presents two meta‐ranking models that minimize or nearly minimize violations of past game results while predicting future game winners as well as or better than leading current systems—a combination never before offered for college football. Key to both is the development and integration of a highly predictive ensemble probability model generated from the analysis of 36 existing college football ranking systems. This ensemble model is used to determine a target ranking that is used in two versions of a hierarchical multiobjective mixed binary integer linear program (MOMBILP). When compared to 75 other systems out‐of‐sample, one MOMBILP was the leading predictive system while getting within 0.64% of the retrodictive optimum; the other MOMBILP minimized violations while achieving a prediction total that was 2.55% lower than the best mark. For bowls, prediction sums were not statistically significantly different from the leading value, while achieving optimum or near‐optimum violation counts. This performance points to these models as potential means of reconciling the contrasting perspectives of predictiveness versus the matching of past performance when it comes to ranking fairness in college football. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics 61: 17–33, 2014
Post‐licensing safety of fosamprenavir in HIV‐infected children in Europe
Authors: Judd Ali , Duong Trinh , Galli Luisa , Goetghebuer Tessa , Ene Luminita , Julian Antoni Noguera , Amador Jose Tomas Ramos , Pimenta Jeanne Marie , Thorne Claire , Giaquinto Carlo ,   on behalf of the European Pregnancy and Paediatric HIV Cohort Collaboration (EPPICC) study group in EuroCoord
Published: November 2013

Purpose

Fosamprenavir, combined with low‐dose ritonavir (FPV/r), is indicated for treatment of HIV‐infected children aged ≥6 years in Europe. Our purpose was to assess the safety of licensed use of FPV/r in HIV‐infected children reported to six cohorts in the European Pregnancy and Paediatric HIV Cohort Collaboration.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of individual patient data for all children aged 6–18 years taking the licensed dose of FPV up to 31/12/10. Adverse events (clinical events and absolute neutrophil counts, total cholesterol and triglycerides, and alanine transaminase) were summarised and DAIDS gradings characterised severity.

Results

Ninety‐two HIV‐infected children aged 6–18 years took the licensed dose, comprising 3% of the total number of children in follow‐up in participating cohorts. Median age at antiretroviral therapy initiation was 6 years (interquartile range 1–11 years), and median age at start of FPV/r was 15 years (12–17 years). Estimated median time on an FPV‐containing regimen was 52 months, with a total of 266.9 patient years of exposure overall. Half (54%) were on an FPV‐containing regimen at last follow‐up. Rates of grade 3/4 events were generally low for all biochemical toxicity markers, and no serious adverse events considered to be causally related to FPV/r were reported.

Conclusions

Results suggest that long‐term licensed dose FPV‐containing regimens appear to be generally well tolerated with few reported toxicities in HIV‐infected children in Europe, although relatively infrequently prescribed. No serious events were reported. © 2013 The Authors. Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thiol‐Michael coupling and ring‐opening metathesis polymerization: facile access to functional exo‐7‐oxanorbornene dendron macromonomers
Authors: Liu Meina , Burford Robert P. , Lowe Andrew B.
Published: November 2013

This paper describes the synthesis of the 2‐ and 4‐functional acrylic exo‐7‐oxanorbornene species 2‐((2‐((3aR,7aS)‐1,3‐dioxo‐1,3,3a,4,7,7a‐hexahydro‐2H‐4,7‐epoxyisoindol‐2‐yl)ethoxy) carbonyl)‐2‐methylpropane‐1,3‐diyl diacrylate and (((2‐((2‐((3aR,7aS)‐1,3‐dioxo‐1,3,3a,4,7,7a‐hexahydro‐2H‐4,7‐epoxyisoindol‐2‐yl)ethoxy) carbonyl)‐2‐methylpropane‐1,3‐diyl)bis(oxy))bis(carbonyl))bis(2‐methylpropane‐2,1,3‐triyl) tetraacrylate, and their use as common precursors for the preparation of a small library of dendronized thioether adducts via nucleophile‐mediated thiol‐Michael coupling chemistry. We subsequently demonstrate that the dendronized monomers can be (co)polymerized via ring‐opening metathesis polymerization employing Grubbs'‐type Ru‐based initiators to give novel functional dendronized (co)polymers of predictable molecular weights and acceptable dispersities (ĐM = w/ n). © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
One‐pot deprotection and functionalization of polythiol copolymers via six different thiol–X reactions
Authors: Le Neindre Morgane , Nicolaÿ Renaud
Published: November 2013

Thiol chemistry is a versatile and powerful tool for the preparation of functional polymers and materials via post‐polymerization modification. However, polythiols are generally difficult to handle since they are prone to gel formation due to oxidative coupling between pendant thiol groups to form disulfide bridges. One‐pot deprotection and functionalization procedures that avoid polythiol manipulation are therefore attractive. In that regard, a methacrylate monomer carrying a xanthate moiety was used to prepare protected polythiol copolymers via concurrent atom transfer radical polymerization/reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer. One‐pot deprotection and functionalization were carried out via aminolysis with a primary amine and subsequent functionalization without isolating the intermediate polythiols. Functionalization was exemplified with six different thiol–X reactions. Thiol–ene radical addition was not conclusive since it led to partial gelation. However, one‐pot deprotection and functionalization via thiol–halogen nucleophilic substitution, thiol–epoxy ring opening, thiol–isocyanate reaction, thiol–acrylate Michael addition and thiol–disulfide exchange were quantitative and led to well‐defined polymers. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of a small amount of poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) on the crystallization behavior of poly(l‐lactic acid) in their immiscible and miscible blends during physical aging
Authors: Sheng Chunrui , Zhang Tongping , Yuan Yuan , Zhou Lijuan , Duan Yongxin , Zhang Jianming
Published: November 2013

The miscibility and effect of physical aging on the crystallization behavior of poly(l‐lactic acid) (PLLA)/poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) blends with a small amount of PHB (≤10 wt%) have been investigated using differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. It is found that the miscibility of PLLA/PHB blends with a very small percentage of PHB can be modulated by varying the molecular weight of the PHB. That is, a PLLA/PHB blend with low‐molecular‐weight PHB is miscible, whereas that with high‐molecular‐weight PHB is immiscible. It is found that physical aging at temperatures far below the glass transition temperature can promote the cold crystallization kinetics of PLLA in PLLA/PHB blends with high‐molecular‐weight PHB rather than in those with low‐molecular‐weight PHB. These findings suggest that the effect of physical aging on the crystallization behavior of the main component in a crystalline/crystalline blend with a small percentage of the second component is strongly dependent on the miscibility of the blend system. Enhanced chain mobility of PLLA in the interface region of PLLA matrix and PHB micro‐domains is proposed to explain the physical aging‐enhanced crystallization rate in immiscible PLLA/PHB blends with high‐molecular‐weight PHB. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Immunoproteomically identified GBAA_0345, alkyl hydroperoxide reductase subunit C is a potential target for multivalent anthrax vaccine
Authors: Kim Yeon Hee , Kim Kyung Ae , Kim Yu‐Ri , Choi Min Kyung , Kim Hye Kyeong , Choi Ki Ju , Chun Jeong‐Hoon , Cha Kiweon , Hong Kee‐Jong , Lee Na Gyong , Yoo Cheon‐Kwon , Oh Hee‐Bok , Kim Tae Sung , Rhie Gi‐eun
Published: November 2013

Anthrax is caused by the spore‐forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis, which has been used as a weapon for bioterrorism. Although current vaccines are effective, they involve prolonged dose regimens and often cause adverse reactions. High rates of mortality associated with anthrax have made the development of an improved vaccine a top priority. To identify novel vaccine candidates, we applied an immunoproteomics approach. Using sera from convalescent guinea pigs or from human patients with anthrax, we identified 34 immunogenic proteins from the virulent B. anthracis H9401. To evaluate vaccine candidates, six were expressed as recombinant proteins and tested in vivo. Two proteins, rGBAA_0345 (alkyl hydroperoxide reductase subunit C) and rGBAA_3990 (malonyl CoA‐acyl carrier protein transacylase), have afforded guinea pigs partial protection from a subsequent virulent‐spore challenge. Moreover, combined vaccination with rGBAA_0345 and rPA (protective antigen) exhibited an enhanced ability to protect against anthrax mortality. Finally, we demonstrated that GBAA_0345 localizes to anthrax spores and bacilli. Our results indicate that rGBAA_0345 may be a potential component of a multivalent anthrax vaccine, as it enhances the efficacy of rPA vaccination. This is the first time that sera from patients with anthrax have been used to interrogate the proteome of virulent B. anthracis vegetative cells.
The proteomic to biology inference, a frequently overlooked concern in the interpretation of proteomic data: A plea for functional validation
Authors: Rabilloud Thierry , Lescuyer Pierre
Published: November 2013

Proteomics will celebrate its 20th year in 2014. In this relatively short period of time, it has invaded most areas of biology and its use will probably continue to spread in the future. These two decades have seen a considerable increase in the speed and sensitivity of protein identification and characterization, even from complex samples. Indeed, what was a challenge twenty years ago is now little more than a daily routine. Although not completely over, the technological challenge now makes room to another challenge, which is the best possible appraisal and exploitation of proteomic data to draw the best possible conclusions from a biological point of view. The point developed in this paper is that proteomic data are almost always fragmentary. This means in turn that although better than an mRNA level, a protein level is often insufficient to draw a valid conclusion from a biological point of view, especially in a world where PTMs play such an important role. This means in turn that transformation of proteomic data into biological data requires an important intermediate layer of functional validation, i.e. not merely the confirmation of protein abundance changes by other methods, but a functional appraisal of the biological consequences of the protein level changes highlighted by the proteomic screens.
Cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibition partially protects against 60% O2‐mediated lung injury in neonatal rats
Authors: Masood Azhar , Yi Man , Lau Mandy , Belcastro Rosetta , Li Jun , Kantores Crystal , Pace‐Asciak Cecil R. , Jankov Robert P. , Tanswell A. Keith
Published: November 2013

Rationale

Use of the anti‐inflammatory agent dexamethasone in premature infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia has been curtailed, and no alternative anti‐inflammatory agents are approved for this use. Our objective was to use a neonatal rat model of bronchopulmonary dysplasia to determine if an highly selective cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibitor, 5,5‐dimethyl‐3‐(3‐fluorophenyl)4‐(4‐methylsulfonyl)phenyl‐2(5H)‐furanone (DFU; 10 µg/g body weight), could prevent inflammatory cell influx and protect against lung injury.

Methods

Neonatal rats exposed to air or 60% O2 for 14 days from birth either received daily i.p. injections of (i) vehicle or DFU or (ii) vehicle or an EP(1) receptor antagonist, SC‐19220.

Results

DFU attenuated the lung macrophage and neutrophil influx, prevented interstitial thickening and prevented the loss of peripheral blood vessels induced by 60% O2, but did not protect against the variance in alveolar diameter induced by 60% O2. Exposure to 60% O2 caused both an increase in lung prostaglandin E2 content and a reduction in lung mesenchymal cell mass which was reversed by DFU. Prostaglandin E2 binding to the EP(1) receptor inhibited DNA synthesis in cultures of lung fibroblasts in a dose dependent fashion. Treatment with SC‐19220 attenuated the reduction in lung mesenchymal mass observed following exposure of rat pups to 60% O2.

Conclusions

An highly selective cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibitor is an effective anti‐inflammatory substitute for dexamethasone for preventing phagocyte influx into the neonatal lung during 60% O2‐mediated lung injury, and can modify the severity of that injury. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2014; 49:991–1002. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.