bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Venous thrombo-embolism (VTE) prevention of patients undergoing total hip and knee replacement: budget impact analysis of apixaban in Italy
Authors: Mantovani Lorenzo Giovanni , Di Minno Giovanni , Furneri Gianluca
Published: September 2013

BACKGROUND: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common and burdensome cardiovascular condition, frequently leading to severe complications and requiring high-cost healthcare interventions. New oral anticoagulants (nOACs) have demonstrated to be efficacious and safe in VTE prevention of patients undergoing total hip replacement (THR) and total knee replacement (TKR), a condition that is typically associated to cardiovascular disease. The Italian Healthcare Service (SSN) has recently approved the latest nOAC, apixaban. The present article aims to evaluate its economic impact in the perspective of the Italian SSN.METHODS: We conducted a budget impact analysis to estimate clinical outcomes and economic consequences associated to the reimbursement of apixaban, in the prevention of VTE as a consequence of major orthopedic surgery, over a three-year time horizon. In our analysis we compared two alternative scenarios, with apixaban either reimbursed (Scenario B) or not reimbursed (Scenario A) by the Italian SSN, and estimated the difference of healthcare costs between the two scenarios. Only direct healthcare costs have been considered.RESULTS: According to market assumptions, it is estimated that 1.2%, 3.7%, and 6.5% of THR patients, and 1.2%, 3.8% and 6.7% of TKR patients, would be treated with apixaban over the first three years since launch. At the estimated daily cost of apixaban (€2.48/die), this would translate into a budget impact of €14.3 mln, €45.5 mln, and €81.4 mln at years 1, 2 and 3 since launch, respectively. This expenditure would be more than offset by savings, due to: i) reduction of prescriptions of alternative treatment options (other nOACs, low-molecular weight heparins, fondaparinux); ii) reduction of the economic burden attributable of CV complications of VTE. Finally, Scenario B resulted slightly favourable compared to Scenario A, leading to economic savings for about €50 thousands over three years. Sensitivity analyses confirmed findings of the base-case analysis.CONCLUSIONS: Reimbursement of apixaban does not determine a budget impact increase for Italian SSN. Its usage may be considered fully sustainable from a pharmaco-economic viewpoint.
L’enseignement de l’histoire au secondaire : de la certitude du récit sur la nation au vertige de la modernité
Authors: LeVasseur Louis , Cardin Jean-François
Published: September 2013

Cet article s’inscrit dans le cadre d’un programme de recherche portant sur les liens entre les missions d’instruction et de socialisation de l’école québécoise à travers l’enseignement de diverses matières scolaires. Les premiers résultats de la recherche ont montré que pour les enseignants, la construction de l’identité de l’élève a beaucoup plus d’importance que la construction de l’identité collective. Cependant, le processus de subjectivation identifié ne signifie pas pour autant qu’il n’y ait plus aucune transmission ou production de « valeurs » ou de « références » communes dans l’enseignement des différentes matières. Par exemple, dans l’enseignement de l’histoire et éducation à la citoyenneté, la construction de l’identité individuelle et celle de l’identité collective sont en continuelle tension. Cependant, l’identité collective ne passe plus tant par le canal d’une mémoire identitaire ou d’un récit national que par la promotion d’une modernité articulée au pluralisme, à la critique, à la rationalité intersubjective et, paradoxalement, à la subjectivation précédemment évoquée. L’article portera donc particulièrement sur cette tendance observée au sein de l’enseignement du cours d’histoire et éducation à la citoyenneté.
Stereoselective Polymerization of Conjugated Dienes
Authors: Takeuchi Daisuke
Published: September 2013

Stereospecific polymerization of conjugated dienes, especially 1,3‐butadiene and isoprene, is summarized. Various transition metal catalysts are utilized for the stereospecific polymerization of conjugated dienes. For example, Ti, V, Co, Ni, and lanthanides forcis‐1,4‐polymerization of 1,3‐butadiene, V, Cr, Fe, and lanthanides fortrans‐1,4‐polymerization of 1,3‐butadiene, and Cr, Co, and Fe for 1,2‐polymerization of 1,3‐butadiene. Lanthanide catalysts are very effective for stereospecific polymerization of isoprene. Stereospecific living polymerization of conjugated dienes is also achieved. A mechanism of the polymerization affording stereoregular polymers and stereospecific polymerization of other diene monomers is also mentioned.
Diels–Alder Polymers
Authors: Yoshie Naoko
Published: September 2013

The Diels–Alder (DA) cycloaddition is extensively used in polymer chemistry. Linear, network, and hyperbranched polymers have been prepared from monomers and prepolymers containing a diene and a dienophile. Because of the simple reaction conditions, high yield, and high selectivity, the DA reaction has recently been rerecognized as a member of the click‐chemistry family. Polymers with unique architectures (e.g., block and graft copolymers, star polymers, telechelic polymers, dendrimers, and dendronized polymers) have been prepared based on this concept. Many DA reactions are thermally reversible. Enthalpically favorable forward cycloaddition reaction proceeds at low temperature, whereas the opposite cycloreversion proceeds at moderate‐to‐high temperature. Among the various options for optimizing DA reactions in polymer synthesis, researchers have focused on the diene–dienophile combination. Ease of reactant preparation, reaction rate of the DA cycloaddition, equilibrium constant of the DA reaction at room temperature, and temperature above which the retro‐DA reaction proceeds are key points in choosing this option. In addition, reversibility has been exploited in developing various functional polymers such as recyclable gels and thermosets, shape‐memory polymers, and crack‐healing polymers. This article surveys DA reactions in polymer synthesis and coupling, including the click‐chemistry approach, and functionality of DA polymers mainly based on the reversibility.
Dilatometry
Authors: Zoller Paul
Published: September 2013

Dilatometry studies linear and volumetric changes of materials. Characterization of dimensional changes of polymers is important both for practical applications and phenomenological studies. For polymers, a variety of factors can produce dimensional changes including external stimuli (eg, temperature, pressure), chemical reactions, aging, phase transitions, crystallization, and sorption. This article overviews theoretical aspects of dilatometry (including the equations of state for melts, glasses, and crystals, expansion coefficients, and compressibility) and in detail experimental techniques including linear, volume, noncontact (eg, optical/interferometry), and capacitive dilatometers. Representative standards and commercially available dilatometers are also presented.
Comparative Effectiveness of Anti–Tumor Necrosis Factor Drugs on Health‐Related Quality of Life Among Patients With Inflammatory Arthritis
Authors: Chen Jian Sheng , Makovey Joanna , Lassere Marissa , Buchbinder Rachelle , March Lyn M.
Published: September 2013

Objective

To compare the relative effectiveness of anti–tumor necrosis factor (anti‐TNF) therapies on health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) by inflammatory arthritis types.

Methods

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), ankylosing spondylitis (AS), and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) who had anti‐TNF therapy (etanercept, adalimumab, or infliximab) in the Australian Rheumatology Association Database during 2001–2011 were assessed using the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36 (SF‐36), Assessment of Quality of Life (AQoL), and Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) disability index (DI) on a biannual basis. Linear regression was used for the analysis; the lack of independence in outcomes for multiple assessments in the same patient was taken into account using generalized estimating equations.

Results

There were 18,119 assessments (first‐time drug use n = 12,274, subsequent use n = 3,098, and no use n = 2,747) provided by 3,033 patients (2,240 RA, 507 AS, and 286 PsA patients) with the anti‐TNF therapies. The effects of subsequent use versus first‐time use were reduced on the SF‐36 physical component summary, AQoL, and HAQ DI scores among RA patients. After adjusting for therapy order, calendar year, sex, age, smoking status, and various medication uses, the 3 anti‐TNF preparations had similar effects on the HRQOL measures for patients with RA, AS, or PsA. However, differences between anti‐TNF therapies were observed in the AQoL score among PsA patients (infliximab versus etanercept: −0.06 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) −0.12, −0.004]) and in the SF‐36 mental component summary score among RA patients (adalimumab versus etanercept: −1.17 [95% CI −1.88, −0.46]).

Conclusion

This study revealed similar effectiveness of etanercept, adalimumab, and infliximab on the HRQOL measures among Australians with RA, AS, and PsA.
Societal Costs of Rheumatoid Arthritis in China: A Hospital‐Based Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Xu Chuanhui , Wang Xiuru , Mu Rong , Yang Li , Zhang Ye , Han Shuling , Li Xiaofeng , Wang Yongfu , Wang Guochun , Zhu Ping , Jin Hongtao , Sun Lin , Chen Haiying , Cui Liufu , Zhang Zhuoli , Li Zhenbin , Li Junfang , Zhang Fengxiao , Lin Jinying , Liu Xiaomin , Hu Shaoxian , Yang Xiuyan , Lai Bei , Li Xingfu , Wang Xiaoyuan , Su Yin , Li Zhanguo
Published: September 2013

Objective

To estimate the annual direct and indirect costs of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in China and identify the predictors for cost of illness.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study of cost of illness from the societal perspective was conducted on 829 patients with RA in 21 tertiary care hospitals in China between July 2009 and December 2010. Data on demographics, clinical variables, and components of costs were collected by physician interview. Costs were represented in 2009 US dollars using purchasing power parity estimates. Univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were performed to identify the predictors for cost of illness.

Results

The mean ± SD total cost of RA in China was $3,826 ± $5,659 per patient‐year, given a gross domestic product per capita of $6,798 in China in 2009. Direct costs and indirect costs comprised 90.0% and 10.0% of the total costs, respectively. Drug expense represented approximately half of the total costs, dominated by biologic agents (48.2%) and disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (23.5%). Additionally, the cost of extracted herbal drugs and traditional Chinese medicine comprised ∼17.6% of the drug expense. Higher education level, noninsured status, longer disease duration, more extraarticular manifestations, and higher Health Assessment Questionnaire score independently predicted higher total costs.

Conclusion

Our results provide the first study of costs of RA in China. This study not only demonstrates the economic burden of RA, but also identifies the predictors that could be interventional factors to reduce the societal costs of RA in China.
Depressive Symptoms and Rheumatoid Arthritis: Spouse Empathic Responding as a Buffer
Authors: Stephenson Ellen , DeLongis Anita , Esdaile John M. , Lehman Allen J.
Published: September 2013

Objective

To examine the effects of depressive symptoms and spouse empathic responding on patient disability and marital quality over time and to identify factors that contribute to patients perceiving their spouses as responding empathically to their rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

Patients diagnosed with RA and their spouses (n = 133 couples) independently completed mailed questionnaires at baseline and 1 year later. Patients completed measures of functional impairment, marital quality, depressive symptoms, and perceived empathic responding from their spouse. Spouses reported their own depressive symptoms and empathic responding behavior.

Results

Perceived empathic responding was found to interact with spouse depressive symptoms, contributing significantly to the prediction of patient functional impairment at followup. Only when spouse empathic responding was low was spouse depression associated with greater patient functional impairment 1 year later. Similarly, in the model predicting patient marital quality at followup, there were significant 2‐way interactions between perceived empathic responding and both spouse depressive symptoms and patient depressive symptoms. Only when spouse empathic responding was low did patient or spouse depression significantly predict poorer marital quality at followup. Patient perceptions of spouse empathic responding were found to depend on spouse reports of their own empathic responding, patient marital satisfaction, and the interaction of patient depressive symptoms and marital satisfaction.

Conclusion

Empathic responding from the spouse was found to buffer against the negative effects of spouse depression on functional and marital outcomes for patients with RA. In developing couple‐oriented RA treatments, increasing perceived empathic responding could serve as a useful target for intervention.
Copper(I)‐Catalyzed Aerobic Oxidative Azide–Alkene Cyclo‐ addition: An Efficient Synthesis of Substituted 1,2,3‐Triazoles
Authors: Janreddy Donala , Kavala Veerababurao , Kuo Chun‐Wei , Chen Wen‐Chang , Ramesh Chintakunta , Kotipalli Trimurtulu , Kuo Ting‐Shen , Chen Mei‐Ling , He Chiu‐Hui , Yao Ching‐Fa
Published: September 2013

A novel, copper(I)‐promoted azide–alkene aerobic oxidative cycloaddition protocol was developed for the regioselective synthesis of 1,4‐disubstituted/1,4,5‐trisubstituted 1,2,3‐triazoles by using azides and electron‐deficient olefins under an oxygen atmosphere.

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Carbonylative Sonogashira Coupling in the Synthesis of Ynones: A Study of “Boomerang” Phenomena
Authors: Genelot Marie , Dufaud Véronique , Djakovitch Laurent
Published: September 2013

The behaviour of several organophosphino‐palladium complexes immobilized on mesoporous silica during the palladium‐catalyzed synthesis of propynone by carbonylative Sonogashira coupling was studied, particularly concerning leaching/redeposition phenomena. The results demonstrated that this cross‐coupling reaction is catalyzed by soluble species. Furthermore, it is shown that the palladium leaching is not initiated by the oxidative addition step but rather by palladium‐decoordination from grafted ligand. Despite this decoordination, catalyst performance after recycling is adequate. Additionally, several parameters linked either to catalyst preparation or reaction procedures were shown to reduce leaching allowing one to achieve metal contamination levels close to the recommendation of the European Agency for the Evaluation of Medicinal Products. Interestingly, this heterogeneous palladium‐catalyzed procedure is fully selective toward the formation of ynones, allowing the preparation of various target compounds.

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Practical Asymmetric Catalytic Synthesis of Spiroketals and Chiral Diphosphine Ligands
Authors: Wang Xubin , Guo Peihua , Wang Xiaoming , Wang Zheng , Ding Kuiling
Published: September 2013

A practical procedure has been developed for efficient synthesis of chiral aromatic spiroketals and the relevant diphosphine ligands. The procedure includes first asymmetric hydrogenation of readily available α,α′‐bis(2‐benzyloxyarylidene) ketones catalyzed by the Ir(I)/SpinPHOX (S,S)‐1a (0.5–1 mol%) and subsequent hydrogenative deprotection of the resultant benzyl ethers catalyzed by palladium on carbon (Pd/C), as well as simultaneous spiroketalization of the corresponding diphenolic ketones by (S,S)‐1a in one pot. The corresponding chiral aromatic spiroketals (R,R,R)‐4a–j have been obtained in high yields (77–94%) with good diastereoselectivities (trans/cis=81/19 to 96/4), and excellent enantioselectivities for the trans products (97–>99% ee). In addition, the reaction of aromatic spiroketal difluoride (R,R,R)‐4b with potassiodiarylphosphide (KPAr2) in refluxing tertahydrofuran (THF) has also provided an alternative and practical synthesis of chiral spiroketal‐based diphosphine (SKP) ligands in 78–95% yields on multigram scale.

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Synthesis of Some New Benzisothiazolone and Benzenesulfonamide Derivatives of Biological Interest Starting from Saccharin Sodium
Authors: El‐Sabbagh Osama I.
Published: September 2013

Two new series of benzenesulfonamide (4a–f, 5a–b, 6, 7) and 1,2‐benzisothiazol‐3(2H)‐one‐1,1‐dioxide (9a–c, 10, 12a–d) derivatives were prepared starting from saccharin sodium. The novel compounds were characterized using elemental analyses and different spectroscopic methods. Assessment of the antiviral activities of these novel compounds against a broad panel of viruses in different cell cultures revealed that only the thiazole derivatives belonging to the benzisothiazol‐3(2H)‐one‐1,1‐dioxide series are the active ones. All thiazole derivatives 12a–d showed activity against both varicella‐zoster virus, especially TK− VZV strain 07‐1, and the cytomegalovirus strains AD‐169 and Davis in human embryonic lung (HEL) cell culture.
A Distinct Human CD4+ T Cell Subset That Secretes CXCL13 in Rheumatoid Synovium
Authors: Kobayashi Shio , Murata Koichi , Shibuya Hideyuki , Morita Mami , Ishikawa Masahiro , Furu Moritoshi , Ito Hiromu , Ito Juichi , Matsuda Shuichi , Watanabe Takeshi , Yoshitomi Hiroyuki
Published: September 2013

Objective

A subset of CD4+ T cells in the synovium of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) produce CXCL13, a chemokine that is crucial for the formation of germinal centers. This study was undertaken to determine the relevance of this population to known subsets of T helper cells and to proinflammatory cytokines, and how these cells are generated.

Methods

The expression of Th markers and CXCL13 by CD4+ T cells in RA synovium and the involvement of proinflammatory cytokines in CXCL13 production were assessed. We also investigated whether CXCL13+CD4+ T cells could be newly induced.

Results

CXCL13+CD4+ T cells in RA synovium were negative for interferon‐γ (IFNγ), interleukin‐4 (IL‐4), IL‐17, FoxP3, and CXCR5 and expressed low levels of inducible T cell costimulator, indicating that this population is a distinct human CD4 subset. T cell receptor (TCR) stimulation of CD4+ T cells, obtained from RA synovium with low expression of CXCL13, promptly induced CXCL13 production and addition of proinflammatory cytokines supported the long‐term production of CXCL13. These findings indicate that CXCL13‐producing CD4+ T cells can be in a memory state ready to be reactivated upon TCR stimulation and that proinflammatory cytokines are involved in persistent CXCL13 production. TCR stimulation of CD4+ T cells from the blood of healthy volunteers, together with proinflammatory cytokine supplementation, induced a population that produced CXCL13, but not IFNγ. Synovial T cells recruited CXCR5+ cells in a CXCL13‐dependent manner.

Conclusion

CXCL13‐producing CD4+ T cells induced in RA synovium may play a role in the recruitment of CXCR5+ cells, such as B cells and circulating follicular helper T cells, and in ectopic lymphoid neogenesis at sites of inflammation.
P2X7 Blockade Attenuates Murine Lupus Nephritis by Inhibiting Activation of the NLRP3/ASC/Caspase 1 Pathway
Authors: Zhao Jijun , Wang Hongyue , Dai Chao , Wang Hongyang , Zhang Hui , Huang Yuefang , Wang Shuang , Gaskin Felicia , Yang Niansheng , Man Fu Shu
Published: September 2013

Objective

The NLRP3 inflammasome plays key roles in inflammation and autoimmunity, and purinergic receptor P2X7 has been proposed to be upstream of NLRP3 activation. The aim of the present study, using murine models, was to investigate whether the P2X7/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway contributes to the pathogenesis of lupus nephritis (LN).

Methods

MRL/lpr mice were treated with the selective P2X7 antagonist brilliant blue G (BBG) for 8 weeks. Following treatment, the severity of renal lesions, production of anti–double‐stranded DNA (anti‐dsDNA) antibodies, rate of survival, activation of the NLRP3/ASC/caspase 1 inflammasome pathway, and ratio of Th17 cells to Treg cells were evaluated. P2X7‐targeted small interfering RNA (siRNA) was also used for in vivo intervention. Similar evaluations were carried out in NZM2328 mice, a model of LN in which the disease was accelerated by administration of adenovirus‐expressing interferon‐α (AdIFNα).

Results

Significant up‐regulation of P2X7/NLRP3 inflammasome signaling molecules was detected in the kidneys of MLR/lpr mice as compared with normal control mice. Blockade of P2X7 activation by BBG suppressed NLRP3/ASC/caspase 1 assembly and the subsequent release of interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), resulting in a significant reduction in the severity of nephritis and circulating anti‐dsDNA antibodies. The lifespan of the treated mice was significantly prolonged. BBG treatment reduced the serum levels of IL‐1β and IL‐17 and the Th17:Treg cell ratio. Similar results were obtained by specific siRNA silencing of P2X7 in vivo. The effectiveness of BBG treatment in modulating LN was confirmed in NZM2328 mice with AdIFNα‐accelerated disease.

Conclusion

Activation of the P2X7 signaling pathway accelerates murine LN by activating the NLRP3/ASC/caspase 1 inflammasome, resulting in increased IL‐1β production and enhanced Th17 cell polarization. Thus, targeting of the P2X7/NLRP3 pathway should be considered as a novel therapeutic strategy in patients with lupus.
Indocyanine Green–Enhanced Fluorescence Optical Imaging in Patients With Early and Very Early Arthritis: A Comparative Study With Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Werner Stephanie G. , Langer Hans‐Eckhard , Schott Peter , Bahner Malte , Schwenke Carsten , Lind‐Albrecht Gudrun , Spiecker Felicitas , Kurtz Bernward , Burmester Gerd R. , Backhaus Marina
Published: September 2013

Objective

Indocyanine green–enhanced fluorescence optical imaging (FOI) is a novel diagnostic tool for the assessment of inflammation in arthritis. We undertook this study to compare FOI with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in 32 patients with early and very early untreated arthritis (mean disease duration 7.1 months).

Methods

FOI images were acquired with the commercially available Xiralite system. Image interpretation was done for an early phase (phase 1), an intermediate phase (phase 2), and a late phase (phase 3), and for an electronically generated composite image. The results were compared with those of clinical examination (960 joints) and contrast (gadolinium)–enhanced 1.5T MRI (382 joints) of the clinically more affected hand. Additionally, we evaluated FOI in a control group of 46 subjects without any signs of inflammatory joint disease (1,380 joints).

Results

With MRI as the reference method, the sensitivity of FOI was 86% and the specificity was 63%, while the composite image, phase 1, and phase 3 reached high specificities (87%, 90%, and 88%, respectively). The results differed considerably between the composite image and the phases. FOI did not detect inflammation in 11 joint regions that showed palmar tenosynovitis on MRI. Intrareader and interreader agreements were moderate to substantial (κ = 0.55–0.73). In the control group, FOI showed positive findings in 5% of normal joints in phase 2.

Conclusion

Further multicenter studies will address the question of whether FOI allows sensitive and reliable detection of inflammatory changes in early arthritis, as suggested by our initial findings. If this is confirmed, FOI has the potential to be a sensitive and valuable tool for monitoring disease activity on site in clinical settings and for serving as an outcome parameter in clinical trials.
PID Stabilization of Retarded‐Type Time‐Delay System
Authors: Zhao Xiu‐wei , Ren Jian‐yue
Published: September 2013

An analytical method is proposed to construct the stabilizing PID region of a retarded‐type time‐delay system, based on Pontryagin's results and a generalization of the Hermite‐Biehler theorem. It is shown that the stable region in the (ki, kd)‐plane is made up of some convex polygons for a fixed kp, and the whole region in the (kp, ki, kd)‐space is comprised of some polyhedrons, each of which is mapped onto a real used string. Additionally, a method for determining the feasible kp‐intervals is given in this paper. Two examples are employed to illustrate and verify the construction procedure of the stabilizing PID region in detail.
Do Children With Autism Re‐Enact Object Movements Rather Than Imitate Demonstrator Actions?
Authors: Custance Deborah M. , Mayer Jennifer L. , Kumar Emmelianna , Hill Elisabeth , Heaton Pamela F.
Published: September 2013

It has been suggested that autism‐specific imitative deficits may be reduced or even spared in object‐related activities. However, most previous research has not sufficiently distinguished object movement reenactment (learning about the ways in which object move) from imitation (learning about the topography of demonstrated actions). Twenty children with autism (CWA) and 20 typically developing children (TDC) were presented with puzzle boxes containing prizes. Test objects and experimental conditions were designed to isolate object‐ and action‐related aspects of demonstrations. There were four types of video demonstrations: (a) a full demonstration by an adult; (b) a ghost demonstration with object movements alone; (c) mimed solutions demonstrated adjacent to the objects; and (d) random actions performed on the surface of the objects. There were no significant between‐group differences in the degree to whichCWAandTDCmatched the full demonstrations, the actual demonstrations or in their times to first solution in any of the conditions. Although there was no clear imitative deficit in theCWA, regression analyses were conducted to explore in more detail whether diagnosis, verbal intelligence quotient (VIQ), nonverbalIQ NVIQ, age or motor coordination predicted performance. The results are discussed in relation to the use of extrinsic vs. intrinsic rewards and the interplay between motor coordination and the relative rigidity vs. pliability of objects.Autism Res2014, 7: 28–39.© 2013 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Simultaneous improvement of specificity and affinity of aptamers against Streptococcus mutans by in silico maturation for biosensor development
Authors: Savory Nasa , Takahashi Yayoi , Tsukakoshi Kaori , Hasegawa Hijiri , Takase Madoka , Abe Koichi , Yoshida Wataru , Ferri Stefano , Kumazawa Shizuko , Sode Koji , Ikebukuro Kazunori
Published: September 2013

In silico evolution with an in vitro system can facilitate the development of functional aptamers with high specificity and affinity. Although a general technique known as systematic evolution of ligand by exponential enrichment (SELEX) is an efficient method for aptamer selection, it sometimes fails to identify aptamers with sufficient binding properties. We have previously developed in silico maturation (ISM) to improve functions of aptamers based on genetic algorithms. ISM represents an intelligent exploitation of a random search within a defined sequence space to optimize aptamer sequences and improve their function of interest. Here we demonstrated a successful application of ISM of aptamers to simultaneously improve specificity and affinity for Streptococcus mutans with discovery of a core sequence, which was required to form a polymerized guanine quadruplex structure for target binding. We applied ISM to aptamers selected by whole‐cell SELEX and identified an aptamer with up to 16‐fold improvement in affinity compared to its parent aptamers, and specificity was increased to show 12‐fold more binding to S. mutans than to Lactobacillus acidophilus. Furthermore, we demonstrated a specific flow‐through detection of S. mutans at a concentration range of 1 × 105–108 CFU/mL using the evolved aptamer immobilized on gold colloids. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2014;111: 454–461. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Length‐Dependent Charge Generation from Vertical Arrays of High‐Aspect‐Ratio ZnO Nanowires
Authors: Rivera Vivian Farías , Auras Florian , Motto Paolo , Stassi Stefano , Canavese Giancarlo , Celasco Edvige , Bein Thomas , Onida Barbara , Cauda Valentina
Published: September 2013

Aqueous chemical growth of zinc oxide nanowires is a flexible and effective approach to obtain dense arrays of vertically oriented nanostructures with high aspect ratio. Herein we present a systematic study of the different synthesis parameters that influence the ZnO seed layer and thus the resulting morphological features of the free‐standing vertically oriented ZnO nanowires. We obtained a homogeneous coverage of transparent conductive substrates with high‐aspect‐ratio nanowire arrays (length/diameter ratio of up to 52). Such nanostructured vertical arrays were examined to assess their electric and piezoelectric properties, and showed an electric charge generation upon mechanical compressive stress. The principle of energy harvesting with these nanostructured ZnO arrays was demonstrated by connecting them to an electronic charge amplifier and storing the generated charge in a series of capacitors. We found that the generated charge and the electrical behavior of the ZnO nanowires are strictly dependent on the nanowire length. We have shown the importance of controlling the morphological properties of such ZnO nanostructures for optimizing a nanogenerator device.
Effects of Six‐Membered Carbohydrate Rings on Structure, Stability, and Kinetics of G‐Quadruplexes
Authors: Zhou Jun , Abramov Michael , Liu Fengwu , Amrane Samir , Bourdoncle Anne , Herdewijn Piet , Mergny Jean‐Louis
Published: September 2013

We have evaluated the conformational, thermal, and kinetic properties of d(TGGGGT) analogues with one or five of the ribose nucleotides replaced with the carbohydrate residues hexitol nucleic acid (HNA), cyclohexenyl nucleic acid (CeNA), or altritol nucleic acid (ANA). All of the modified oligonucleotides formed G‐quadruplexes, but substitution with the six‐membered rings resulted in a mixture of G‐quadruplex structures. UV and CD melting analyses showed that the structure formed by d(TGGGGT) modified with HNA was stabilized whereas that modified with CeNA was destabilized, relative to the structure formed by the unmodified oligonucleotide. Substitution at the fourth base of the G‐tract with ANA resulted in a greater stabilization effect than substitution at the first G residue; substitution with five ANA residues resulted in significant stabilization of the G‐quadruplex. A single substitution with CeNA at the first base of the G‐tract or five substitutions with HNA resulted in striking deceleration or acceleration of G‐quadruplex formation, respectively. Our results shed light on the effect of the sugar moiety on the properties of G‐quadruplex structures.
Technological innovation capabilities, product strategy, and firm performance: The electronics industry in China
Authors: Shan Juan , Jolly Dominique R.
Published: September 2013

This research was conducted with a sample of 215 Chinese companies from the electronics industry. It shows that the different technological innovation capabilities have a positive impact on product innovation, beginning with the linkage capability, and then moving to the production capability, and ending with the investment capability. The research also shows that product innovation has a mediating effect on the relationship between different technological innovation capabilities and firm performance. Copyright © 2013 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of draft tube geometry on pressure drop in draft tube conical spouted beds
Authors: Altzibar Haritz , Lopez Gartzen , Bilbao Javier , Olazar Martin
Published: September 2013

A hydrodynamic study of conical spouted beds equipped with draft tubes of different configurations have been carried out for fine and coarse particles belonging to Geldart groups D and B, respectively. The draft tubes used are conventional non‐porous tubes and open‐sided tubes, and runs have been carried out following a design of experiments in order to ascertain the effect of the draft tube geometry on the operating pressure drop and peak pressure drop. Furthermore, runs have been carried out without tubes to compare the results obtained with those obtained with the two types of tubes. The results evidence that the geometry of the draft tube influences the operating pressure drop and especially the peak pressure drop and, therefore, the hydrodynamics of conical spouted beds.
Is pediatric melanoma always malignant?
Authors: Coit Daniel G. , Ernstoff Marc S. , Busam Klaus J.
Published: September 2013

Pediatric melanoma is a rare disease about which there is little agreement as to the accurate diagnosis of borderline lesions or early lymph node metastases. A better understanding of the natural history of this condition will require large centralized registries, consistent histopathologic and cytogenetic review, and long term clinical follow‐up.
Stabilized second‐order convex splitting schemes for Cahn–Hilliard models with application to diffuse‐interface tumor‐growth models
Authors: Wu X. , van Zwieten G. J. , van der Zee K. G.
Published: September 2013

We present unconditionally energy‐stable second‐order time‐accurate schemes for diffuse‐interface (phase‐field) models; in particular, we consider the Cahn–Hilliard equation and a diffuse‐interface tumor‐growth system consisting of a reactive Cahn–Hilliard equation and a reaction–diffusion equation. The schemes are of the Crank–Nicolson type with a new convex–concave splitting of the free energy and an artificial‐diffusivity stabilization. The case of nonconstant mobility is treated using extrapolation. For the tumor‐growth system, a semi‐implicit treatment of the reactive terms and additional stabilization are discussed. For suitable free energies, all schemes are linear. We present numerical examples that verify the second‐order accuracy, unconditional energy‐stability, and superiority compared with their first‐order accurate variants. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Level and Appraisal of Fatigue are Not Specific in Burnout
Authors: Van Dam Arno , Keijsers Ger , Verbraak Marc , Eling Paul , Becker Eni
Published: September 2013

Fatigue is a main feature of the burnout syndrome but also very common in other psychiatric disorders such as major depression and anxiety disorders. This raises the question of whether the level and appraisal of fatigue is experienced differently by individuals suffering from burnout than by those exhibiting anxiety disorders and major depression. If fatigue is experienced differently in burnout compared with other disorders, this may clarify why fatigue is the main feature of the burnout syndrome. This knowledge may lead to the application of specific therapeutic interventions aimed at the experience of fatigue in burnout. In the present study, we investigated whether fatigue is experienced differently in burnout patients than in patients suffering from anxiety disorders or major depression. We presented 73 burnout patients, 67 depressed patients, 57 patients with an anxiety disorder and 127 healthy participants with a rating scale containing statements about the fatigue–performance relationship, and we assessed the level of fatigue, depression and anxiety. The level of fatigue reported by burnout patients was high but did not differ from that of the other patient groups. The appraisal of fatigue also did not differ among the patient groups. The burnout patients did not appraise their fatigue as a result of unrewarding activities nor did they catastrophize fatigue in an exceptional way. Thus, the level of fatigue and the appraisal of fatigue may be less relevant to the understanding of the specific pathological processes associated with burnout than is often presumed. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message

The level of fatigue and the appraisal of fatigue in burnout patients do not differ from those reported in patients with major depression or anxiety disorders ,and may therefore, not be relevant to the understanding of the specific pathological processes associated with burnout.

General level of fatigue appeared to predict worrying about fatigue and fear of social rejection, regardless of diagnosis.

Fatigue is a feature of several psychiatric disorders. Understanding fatigue may help to gain insight into pathological processes underlying a range of disorders.
Morphology‐controllable synthesis of ZnO nano‐/micro‐ structures by a solvothermal process in ethanol solution
Authors: Zhang An‐Qi , Zhang Lu , Sui Li , Qian Dong‐Jin , Chen Meng
Published: September 2013

Flower‐like ZnO nanostructures assembled by nanorods with bimodal size distribution have been synthesized by a solvothermal process in NaOH‐Et system. Various effects of the solvothermal parameters and assistant additives on the morphologies of ZnO nanostructures have been investigated. The directing effect of chloride ions have been observed in the formation of highly symmetrical 3D ZnO nanostructures. A possible mechanism has been proposed to explain the formation of ZnO nanoflowers in NaOH‐Et system. A strong near‐UV emission band centered at around 396 nm is observed in the photoluminescence spectrum of flower‐like ZnO nanostructures, indicating of their high crystal quality.
Validation of cell‐based fluorescence assays: Practice guidelines from the ICSH and ICCS – part I – rationale and aims
Authors: Davis Bruce H. , Wood Brent , Oldaker Teri , Barnett David
Published: September 2013

Flow cytometry and other technologies of cell‐based fluorescence assays are as a matter of good laboratory practice required to validate all assays, which when in clinical practice may pass through regulatory review processes using criteria often defined with a soluble analyte in plasma or serum samples in mind. Recently the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has entered into a public dialogue in the U.S. regarding their regulatory interest in laboratory developed tests (LDTs) or so‐called “home brew” assays performed in clinical laboratories. The absence of well‐defined guidelines for validation of cell‐based assays using fluorescence detection has thus become a subject of concern for the International Council for Standardization of Haematology (ICSH) and International Clinical Cytometry Society (ICCS). Accordingly, a group of over 40 international experts in the areas of test development, test validation, and clinical practice of a variety of assay types using flow cytometry and/or morphologic image analysis were invited to develop a set of practical guidelines useful to in vitro diagnostic (IVD) innovators, clinical laboratories, regulatory scientists, and laboratory inspectors. The focus of the group was restricted to fluorescence reporter reagents, although some common principles are shared by immunohistochemistry or immunocytochemistry techniques and noted where appropriate. The work product of this two year effort is the content of this special issue of this journal, which is published as 5 separate articles, this being Validation of Cell‐based Fluorescence Assays: Practice Guidelines from the ICSH and ICCS ‐ Part I ‐ Rationale and aims. © 2013 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Best Practicable Aggregation of Species: a step forward for species surrogacy in environmental assessment and monitoring
Authors: Bevilacqua Stanislao , Claudet Joachim , Terlizzi Antonio
Published: September 2013

The available taxonomic expertise and knowledge of species is still inadequate to cope with the urgent need for cost‐effective methods to quantifying community response to natural and anthropogenic drivers of change. So far, the mainstream approach to overcome these impediments has focused on using higher taxa as surrogates for species. However, the use of such taxonomic surrogates often limits inferences about the causality of community patterns, which in turn is essential for effective environmental management strategies. Here, we propose an alternative approach to species surrogacy, the “Best Practicable Aggregation of Species” (BestAgg), in which surrogates exulate from fixed taxonomic schemes. The approach uses null models from random aggregations of species to minimizing the number of surrogates without causing significant losses of information on community patterns. Surrogate types are then selected in order to maximize ecological information. We applied the approach to real case studies on natural and human‐driven gradients from marine benthic communities. Outcomes from BestAgg were also compared with those obtained using classic taxonomic surrogates. Results showed that BestAgg surrogates are effective in detecting community changes. In contrast to classic taxonomic surrogates, BestAgg surrogates allow retaining significantly higher information on species‐level community patterns than what is expected to occur by chance and a potential time saving during sample processing up to 25% higher. Our findings showed that BestAgg surrogates from a pilot study could be used successfully in similar environmental investigations in the same area, or for subsequent long‐term monitoring programs. BestAgg is virtually applicable to any environmental context, allowing exploiting multiple surrogacy schemes beyond stagnant perspectives strictly relying on taxonomic relatedness among species. This prerogative is crucial to extend the concept of species surrogacy to ecological traits of species, thus leading to ecologically meaningful surrogates that, while cost effective in reflecting community patterns, may also contribute to unveil underlying processes. A specific R code for BestAgg is provided.
Flow Field Analysis of Micromixer Powered by Ciliary Motion of Vorticella
Authors: Hayasaka Yo , Nagai Moeto , Matsumoto Nobuyoshi , Kawashima Takahiro , Shibata Takayuki
Published: September 2013

The use of cilia from microorganisms requires design of the channel and the fabrication process. We developed a method of injecting Vorticella into a microchamber and exploited the properties of Vorticella as a micromixer of two solutions. We characterized a flow field generated by the ciliary motion of Vorticella. We measured the stability and mixing performance of Vorticella by particle image velocimetry (PIV). Our PIV measurements showed that a single Vorticella mixes the half‐area of a microchamber (200 × 400 µm). We conclude that the flow field of a single cell in a chamber is more stable than that of multiple cells. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 96(10): 43–49, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.11468
Stabilizing Predictive Visual Feedback Control via Image Space Navigation Function
Authors: Murao Toshiyuki , Kawai Hiroyuki , Fujita Masayuki
Published: September 2013

This paper investigates stabilizing receding horizon control via an image space navigation function for three‐dimensional (3D) visual feedback systems. First, we describe the representation of a relative pose and a camera model. Next, a visual motion error system which can handle time‐varying desired motion is constructed. Then, visual motion observer‐based stabilizing receding horizon control for 3D visual feedback systems is proposed. Moreover, a path planner appropriate for the visual motion error system is designed through an image space navigation function to keep all features in the camera field of view. The main contribution of this paper is to show that the path planner which always remains in the camera field of view during servoing is designed for position‐based visual feedback receding horizon control based on optimal control theory. Finally, we present simulation and nonlinear experimental results in order to verify control performance with visibility maintenance of the proposed control scheme. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 96(10): 12–21, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.11493
High‐Pressure Synthesis and Characterization of the Actinide Borate Phosphate U2[BO4][PO4]
Authors: Hinteregger Ernst , Wurst Klaus , Perfler Lukas , Kraus Florian , Huppertz Hubert
Published: September 2013

A new actinide borate phosphate, U2[BO4][PO4], was synthesized in a Walker‐type multianvil apparatus at 12.5 GPa and 1000 °C. The crystal structure was determined from single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction data collected at room temperature. U2[BO4][PO4] crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21/c with four formula units per unit cell and the lattice parameters a = 854.6(2), b = 775.3(2), c = 816.3(2) pm, and β = 102.52(3)°. The structure consists of double layers of linked uranium–oxygen polyhedra parallel to [100]. The borate tetrahedra are located between the uranium–oxygen layers inside the double layer. The phosphate groups link the double layers.
‘We were here first, so we determine the rules of the game’: Autochthony and prejudice towards out‐groups
Authors: Martinovic Borja , Verkuyten Maykel
Published: September 2013

This paper identifies autochthony—the belief that a place belongs to its original inhabitants and that they are therefore more entitled—as a relevant new determinant of out‐group prejudice. We hypothesized that autochthony uniquely predicts prejudice towards migrant groups and that it mediates the relationship between national identification and prejudice. The mediation process was anticipated to be especially strong for people who perceive out‐group encroachment, that is, those who feel that immigrants are ‘getting out of place’. These hypotheses were tested in two studies using nationally representative samples of native Dutch participants. In Study 1 (N = 793), we showed that autochthony is an empirically distinct construct and that it is a unique predictor of prejudice. Furthermore, higher national identifiers expressed stronger claims of autochthony, and these claims were in turn associated with more negative feelings towards migrant groups. Study 2 (N = 466) showed support for a moderated mediation model: Beliefs in autochthony were only related to prejudice for participants who perceived out‐group encroachment. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interrelation between rifting, faulting, sedimentation, and mantle serpentinization during continental margin formation—including examples from the Norwegian Sea
Authors: Rüpke Lars H. , Schmid Daniel W. , Perez‐Gussinye Marta , Hartz Ebbe
Published: September 2013

The conditions permitting mantle serpentinization during continental rifting are explored within 2‐D thermotectonostratigraphic basin models, which track the rheological evolution of the continental crust, account for sediment blanketing effects, and allow for kinetically controlled mantle serpentinization processes. The basic idea is that the entire extending continental crust has to be brittle for crustal scale faulting and mantle serpentinization to occur. The isostatic and latent heat effects of the reaction are fully coupled to the structural and thermal solutions. A systematic parameter study shows that a critical stretching factor exists for which complete crustal embrittlement and serpentinization occurs. Increased sedimentation rates shift this critical stretching factor to higher values as sediment blanketing effects result in higher crustal temperatures. Sediment supply has therefore, through the temperature‐dependence of the viscous flow laws, strong control on crustal strength and mantle serpentinization reactions are only likely when sedimentation rates are low and stretching factors high. In a case study for the Norwegian margin, we test whether the inner lower crustal bodies (LCB) imaged beneath the Møre and Vøring margin could be serpentinized mantle. Multiple 2‐D transects have been reconstructed through the 3‐D data set by Scheck‐Wenderoth and Maystrenko (2011). We find that serpentinization reactions are possible and likely during the Jurassic rift phase. Predicted thicknesses and locations of partially serpentinized mantle rocks fit to information on LCBs from seismic and gravity data. We conclude that some of the inner LCBs beneath the Norwegian margin may be partially serpentinized mantle.