bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SiIV Incorporation into a [28]Hexaphyrin That Triggered Formation of Möbius Aromatic Molecules
Authors: Ishida Shin‐ichiro , Tanaka Takayuki , Lim Jong Min , Kim Dongho , Osuka Atsuhiro
Published: May 2014

Incorporation of SiIV into an expanded porphyrin has been achieved for the first time. Treatment of [28]hexaphyrin 1 with CH3SiCl3 and N,N‐diisopropylethylamine gave SiIV complex 2 and its N‐fused product 4 that both have Möbius aromatic nature. In both complexes, the coordinated Si atom is satisfied in a typical trigonal bipyramidal coordination. SiIV incorporation induces conformational rigidification and redshifted absorption profiles due to σ–π conjugation between the Si atom and hexaphyrin macrocycle. Tamao–Fleming oxidation of 2 with H2O2 gave β‐hydroxy [28]hexaphyrin 5, which exists as a ruffled rectangular shape in the solid state, yet it has been revealed to exist predominantly as a twisted Möbius aromatic conformer in CH2Cl2.
Nitrogen‐Enriched Eutrophication Promotes the Invasion of Spartina alterniflora in Coastal China
Authors: Zhao Hui , Yang Wen , Xia Lu , Qiao Yajun , Xiao Yan , Cheng Xiaoli , An Shuqing
Published: May 2014

Pollution‐driven eutrophication is a significant by‐product of rapid economic growth in China. Such environmental changes have huge consequences on local biodiversity and ecosystem functions through the spread of invasive introduced species. Spartina alterniflora has been spreading quickly and extensively throughout China since the mid 1980s, soon after its intentional introduction from the eastern United States. The range expansion of S. alterniflora coincides with a significant increase in the per unit standing biomass of the species in the Chinese coastal wetlands from the 1980s to 2000s. Here we showed that the long term per m2 biomass of S. alternifolia changes are significantly correlated with human‐induced increases of the inorganic nitrogen level in the Chinese coastal water. We established this causal relationship by showing that reproduction, growth, and biomass of individual S. alterniflora, grown in experimental tanks, increased with higher levels of soil inorganic nitrogen. Competition experiments indicated that S. alterniflora out competed Phragmites australis at both low and high soil nitrogen levels. These field and experimental based results support the hypothesis that nitrogen‐enriched eutrophication contributed significantly to the successful invasion of S. alterniflora in China.
High‐risk human papillomavirus infection associated with telomere elongation in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma with poor prognosis
Authors: Zhang Dong‐Hong , Chen Jiong‐Yu , Hong Chao‐Qun , Yi De‐Qing , Wang Fei , Cui Wei
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND

Telomere maintenance is crucial in carcinogenesis and tumor progression. The results of a previous study from the authors indicated that infection with high‐risk human papillomavirus (HR‐HPV) types 16, 18, and 58 was a risk factor for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) in the Shantou region of China. In the current study, the authors explored the association between HR‐HPV infection, telomere length (TL), and DNA methylation and their significance in the prognosis of patients with ESCC.

METHODS

TL and DNA methylation were analyzed by real‐time polymerase chain reaction and methylation‐specific polymerase chain reaction in 70 cases of ESCC tumor (T) and paired nontumor (NT) tissues and 50 cases of normal esophagus (NE). The prognostic value of TL and DNA methylation in ESCC was analyzed.

RESULTS

TL gradually decreased from NE to NT to T tissue. TL in tumor tissue (T‐TL) was found to be longer in tissue that was positive for HR‐HPV compared with negative tissue and was found to be positively associated with viral load (Spearman correlation, 0.410; P = .037) and integration (represented by the ratio of HR‐HPV E2 to E6/E7 genes; P = .01). The DNA methylation ratio of human telomerase reverse transcriptase was more prevalent with long (≥ 0.7) compared with short (< 0.7) T‐TL and was positively correlated with T‐TL (Spearman correlation, 0.318; P = .007) and HR‐HPV integration (P = .036). Furthermore, Cox proportional hazards modeling revealed a high ratio of T‐TL to NT‐TL (≥ 0.80) as a factor of poor prognosis, independent of other clinicopathologic variables.

CONCLUSIONS

HR‐HPV infection and integration related to telomere elongation and DNA methylation of human telomerase reverse transcriptase may be a potential biomarker of prognosis in patients with ESCC. Cancer 2014;120:2673–2683. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Coordination mechanisms for decentralized parallel systems
Authors: Cohen Johanne , Cordeiro Daniel , Trystram Denis
Published: May 2014

On resource sharing platforms, the execution of the jobs submitted by users is usually controlled by a centralized global scheduler. It determines efficient schedules regarding some common objective function that all organizations agree with (for instance, maximizing the utilization of the entire platform). However, in practice, each organization is mostly interested in the performance obtained for its own jobs. We study the price that the collectivity must pay in order to allow independence to selfish, self‐governing organizations, so they can choose the best schedules for their own jobs. In other words, we are interested in analyzing the costs on the global performance inflicted by the decentralization of scheduling policies. We present a game‐theoretic model for the problem and the associated coordination mechanisms developed to reduce the cost of the decentralization of the decision‐making process. The main contribution is to show (in theory and practice) how to devise pure Nash equilibria configurations for every instance of the problem and to prove that the price paid by the collectivity depends on the local scheduling policy and on the characteristics of the workload executed on such platforms. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Parallel Water/Aromatic Interactions of Non‐Coordinated and Coordinated Water
Authors: Vojislavljević‐Vasilev Dubravka Z. , Janjić Goran V. , Medaković Vesna B. , Blagojević Jelena P. , Zarić Snežana D.
Published: May 2014

The parallel interactions of non‐coordinated and coordinated water molecules with an aromatic ring were studied by analyzing data in the Cambridge structural database (CSD) and by using quantum chemical calculations. The CSD data show that water/aromatic contacts prefer parallel to OH/π interactions, which indicates the importance of parallel interactions. The results reveal the influence of water coordination to a metal ion; the interactions of aqua complexes are stronger. Coordinated water molecules prefer a parallel‐down orientation in which one OH bond is parallel to the aromatic ring, whereas the other OH bond points to the plane of the ring. The interactions of aqua complexes with parallel‐down water/benzene orientation are as strong as the much better known OH/π orientations. The strongest calculated interaction energy is −14.89 kcal mol−1. The large number of parallel contacts in crystal structures and the quite strong interactions indicate the importance of parallel orientation in water/benzene interactions.
Formic Acid Dehydrogenation with Bioinspired Iridium Complexes: A Kinetic Isotope Effect Study and Mechanistic Insight
Authors: Wang Wan‐Hui , Xu Shaoan , Manaka Yuichi , Suna Yuki , Kambayashi Hide , Muckerman James T. , Fujita Etsuko , Himeda Yuichiro
Published: May 2014

Highly efficient hydrogen generation from dehydrogenation of formic acid is achieved by using bioinspired iridium complexes that have hydroxyl groups at the ortho positions of the bipyridine or bipyrimidine ligand (i.e., OH in the second coordination sphere of the metal center). In particular, [Ir(Cp*)(TH4BPM)(H2O)]SO4 (TH4BPM: 2,2′,6,6′‐tetrahydroxyl‐4,4′‐bipyrimidine; Cp*: pentamethylcyclopentadienyl) has a high turnover frequency of 39 500 h−1 at 80 °C in a 1 M aqueous solution of HCO2H/HCO2Na and produces hydrogen and carbon dioxide without carbon monoxide contamination. The deuterium kinetic isotope effect study clearly indicates a different rate‐determining step for complexes with hydroxyl groups at different positions of the ligands. The rate‐limiting step is β‐hydrogen elimination from the iridium–formate intermediate for complexes with hydroxyl groups at ortho positions, owing to a proton relay (i.e., pendent‐base effect), which lowers the energy barrier of hydrogen generation. In contrast, the reaction of iridium hydride with a proton to liberate hydrogen is demonstrated to be the rate‐determining step for complexes that do not have hydroxyl groups at the ortho positions.
Synthesis of Chondroitin Sulfate Oligosaccharides Using N‐(Tetrachlorophthaloyl)‐ and N‐(Trifluoroacetyl)galactosamine Building Blocks
Authors: Macchione Giuseppe , Maza Susana , Mar Kayser M. , de Paz José L. , Nieto Pedro M.
Published: May 2014

We have explored synthetic routes for the preparation of chondroitin sulfate (CS) oligosaccharides based on the use of N‐tetrachlorophthaloyl‐ (N‐TCP) and N‐trifluoroacetyl‐substituted (N‐TFA) galactosamine building blocks. Using N‐TCP units, we carried out the total synthesis of two CS disaccharides, demonstrating the compatibility of TCP protection with the final deprotection/sulfation steps. However, an attempted 2 + 2 coupling of N‐TCP‐containing disaccharides for the synthesis of CS tetrasaccharides failed. In contrast, a synthetic route using N‐TFA galactosamine units efficiently led to biologically relevant CS‐like oligosaccharides. The N‐TFA groups could easily be removed at the end of the synthesis, and microwave irradiation greatly facilitated the sulfation reactions. The utility of this approach is illustrated with the total synthesis of two CS‐like tetrasaccharides with different sulfate distribution patterns. Finally, we used a fluorescence polarization assay to estimate the relative abilities of the synthesized compounds to inhibit the interaction between FGF‐2 and heparin.
The Catalytic Effect of Polypyrrole/Pt‐Cu on Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Saremi M. , Salehisaki M.
Published: May 2014

This paper studies the electrochemical properties of ppy/Pt‐Cu composite for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and compares it to the highly porous ppy/Pt‐Cu catalyst, which can be synthesized by galvanostatic method (ppy/Pt‐Cu(GS)). The results of the polarization, rotating disk electrode and electrochemical impedance tests are discussed to determine the electrochemical properties of the catalysts. According to the results, ppy/Pt‐Cu(GS) catalyst is more active toward ORR compared to ppy/Pt‐Cu catalyst. The rotating disk electrode data indicates four‐electron transfer mechanism for this catalyst.
Development of a Very Sensitive ELIME Assay for Detection of sIgE to G5 and D2 Aeroallergens in Serum Samples
Authors: De Stefano A. , Volpe G. , Adornetto G. , Bernardini S. , Nuccetelli M. , Gallucci G. , Di Ruvo L. , Moscone D.
Published: May 2014

This work describes the development of an ELIME (Enzyme‐Linked ImmunoMagnetic Electrochemical) assay for a sensitive detection of specific IgE (sIgE) towards the aeroallergens G5 and D2 in serum samples. The system, with a detection limit of 0.1 KIU/L, uses magnetic beads as support of the immunological chain and a strip of eight‐magnetized screen‐printed electrodes, connected to a portable instrument, for a multiplexed detection. The analysis of 46 serum samples performed using both the ELIME and the Immulite 2000 assays, suggests that our method is able to measure very low concentration of sIgE and to discriminate all positive samples from negative ones.
Silver ions enhance UVB‐induced phosphorylation of histone H2AX
Authors: Zhao Xiaoxu , Toyooka Tatsushi , Ibuki Yuko
Published: May 2014

Silver (Ag) is used in a wide range of industries including healthcare, food, cosmetics, and environmental industries due to its antibacterial properties. The rapidly expanding use of Ag has raised issues concerning its toxicity in humans. However, studies investigating the effects of Ag on humans are very limited, and the combined effects of Ag and other environmental factors have not yet been determined. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation in sunlight is the most prominent and ubiquitous physical stressor in our natural environment. In this study, we investigated the genotoxic potential of combined exposure to Ag+ (AgNO3) and UVB in the human keratinocyte cell line, HaCaT, by measuring the generation of phosphorylated histone H2AX, which is currently attracting attention as a biomarker for the detection of genotoxic insults. We found that the generation of γ‐H2AX was synergistically enhanced when cells were coexposed to Ag+ and UVB. Furthermore, we showed that the enhanced generation of γ‐H2AX could be attributed to the increased formation of UVB‐induced cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers and (6–4) photoproducts. These lesions, if not repaired properly, are the major causal factor for skin carcinogenesis. Our results provide an important insight into influence of Ag on the genotoxic potency of sunlight. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 55:556–565, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
On the effect of neural network compensation on MIMO‐STBC systems in the presence of HPA nonlinearity
Authors: Belkacem Oussama Ben Haj , Ammari Mohamed Lassaad , Zayani Rafik , Bouallegue Ridha
Published: May 2014

In this paper, we focus on the effect of nonlinear high‐power amplifiers (HPA) on the multiple‐input‐multiple‐output space‐time block coded (MIMO‐STBC) systems. In order to compensate the HPA nonlinearity, we propose a new receiver scheme based on a neural network algorithm in conjunction with the maximal‐ratio combining (MRC) technique. The performances of the proposed nonlinear network (NLN), called NLN‐MRC receiver, are evaluated for a MIMO‐STBC systems over uncorrelated Rayleigh fading channels. Analytic expressions of the average symbol error rate and the error vector magnitude are delivered. We also analyse the channel capacity of the considered system assuming the perfect knowledge of the channel coefficients and the use of the water‐filling approach.

Simulation results show that the proposed compensation technique can efficiently reduce the effect of HPA distortions. In addition, we note an excellent agreement between analytic expressions and Monte‐Carlo simulation curves. Furthermore, the proposed adaptive NLN‐MRC scheme has a low complexity, fast convergence, and best performance than its competitors given in the literature. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
BRAF mutation in fine‐needle aspiration specimens as a potential predictor for persistence/recurrence in patients with classical papillary thyroid carcinoma larger than 10 mm at a BRAF mutation prevalent area
Authors: Moon Hee Jung , Kim Eun‐Kyung , Chung Woong Youn , Shin Dong Yeob , Kwak Jin Young
Published: May 2014

Background

The association between the BRAF mutation and persistence/recurrence was investigated in patients with classical papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) at a BRAF mutation prevalent area.

Methods

A total of 282 patients with total thyroidectomy and prophylactic central neck dissection were included in this study. The BRAF mutation was evaluated with cytology specimen using dual priming oligonucleotide (DPO)‐based multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and direct sequencing preoperatively.

Results

Thirty‐four patients (12%) had persistence/recurrence. In all PTC, the BRAF mutation on both methods was not associated with persistence/recurrence. In PTC >10 mm, the BRAF mutation on DPO‐based multiplex PCR was significantly associated with persistence/recurrence and a potential predictor for persistence/recurrence. In PTC ≤10 mm, none of the covariates were significantly different between patients with and without persistence/recurrence.

Conclusion

The BRAF mutation was significantly associated with persistence/recurrence and a potential predictor in patients with classical PTC >10 mm at a BRAF mutation prevalent area. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 37: 1432–1438, 2015
Nanocrystallized Organic Thin Films as Effective Light Outcoupling Layers for Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Chen Shuming , Kwok Hoi‐Sing
Published: May 2014

Light outcoupling from organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) is essential for developing energy‐saving displays and efficient lighting sources. Nanocrystallized organic thin films exhibiting scattering features have been considered as effective light extractors for OLEDs. This paper reviews recent advancements in nanocrystallized thin films and their applications in OLEDs. Due to the advantages of easy preparation and OLED compatibility, nanocrystallized organic thin films can integrate with OLEDs as external or internal light extractors easily. Significant light enhancement has been achieved. The fabrication methods and mechanisms of light enhancement are discussed.
Gradual Fluorination of Ladder‐type Quarterphenyl
Authors: Kobin Björn , Grubert Lutz , Mebs Stefan , Braun Beatrice , Hecht Stefan
Published: May 2014

A series of partially bridge‐fluorinated derivatives of ladder‐type quarterphenyl L4P is reported. Successive introduction of two fluorine atoms each into the two terminal and one central benzylic methylene positions enabled the synthesis of the three symmetrical derivatives L4P‐F2, L4P‐F4, and L4P‐F6. X‐ray diffraction data show that fluorination does not notably affect the molecular structure of the π system; however, molecular packing in the crystalline solid is largely impacted by the introduction of strong dipoles perpendicular to the molecular axis. The effect of substitution with the present electron‐withdrawing fluorine atoms is clearly reflected in significantly lowered (frontier) molecular orbital levels (the LUMO of L4P is at approximately −1.8 to −2.0 eV and shifts to −2.8 eV or lower), as evidenced by lower reduction and higher oxidation potentials in cyclic voltammetry measurements. Furthermore, the influence of fluorination on the optical properties is unexpectedly strong, in particular, with regard to the fluorescence quantum yield. Fluorination in fluorene bridge positions thus provides an interesting alternative tool to tune the electronic and optical properties, as well as self‐assembly behavior, of ladder oligo(para‐phenylene)s.
Feelings and motives underlying Machiavellian behavioural strategies; narrative reports in a social dilemma situation
Authors: Czibor Andrea , Vincze Orsolya , Bereczkei Tamas
Published: May 2014

This study explored the reasons and motives underlying the decisions of individuals with strong Machiavellian attitudes (High Machs). One hundred and fifty undergraduate students completed the Mach‐IV test, and their contributions to, financial success in and narrative reports of a public goods game were analysed. High Machs contributed less to the public good and gained more benefit than Low Machs. Analysis of the narrative reports showed that High Machs used significantly fewer verbs referring to emotional involvement and first person plural verb forms, than did Low Machs. This study confirmed previous findings that High Machs have a cool and rational character and a proself orientation and showed that their lack of group orientation may account for their low cooperation in social dilemmas. The results of narrative content analysis provide a new perspective on the motives and values behind High Machs' decisions and success in different fields of social life.
Evaluations of hypothetical bereavement and grief: The influence of loss recency, loss type and gender
Authors: Miller Eric D.
Published: May 2014

Individuals often hold strict and erroneous expectations for how others should grieve, yet this issue has been sparsely researched. A total of 161 undergraduates rated the appropriateness of various social and emotional behaviours of a hypothetical bereaved individual as a function of the recency of the death (1 month or 1 year ago), the nature of the loss (death of a spouse or child) and the gender of the bereaved. As expected, subjects deemed it inappropriate to show positive emotions and experiences 1 month after a hypothetical death and more inappropriate to show negative reactions 1 year later and there were generally higher expectations of socially appropriate behaviour for those who lost a child rather than a spouse. Unexpectedly, there were no significant differences regarding the gender of the bereaved. This study is among the first to show experimentally the widespread expectation that grief should be experienced early and be short‐lived.
Lewis Base Assisted Magnesium Complexes Incorporating Pyrrolyl and Ketiminate Ligands: Synthesis, Structural Diversity and Characterization
Authors: Hsueh Li‐Feng , Hsieh Min‐Hui , Hsu Shu‐Ya , Lee Cheng‐Yuan , Hsieh Hsiang‐Hua , Datta Amitabha , Huang Jui‐Hsien , Lin Chia‐Her , Lee Ting‐Yu
Published: May 2014

A series of four, five and six‐coordinated magnesium derivatives integrating with substituted pyrrole and ketimine ligands are conveniently synthesized. Reaction of two equiv of 2‐dimethylaminomethyl pyrrole with Mg[N(SiMe3)2]2 in THF affords the monomeric magnesium complex Mg[C4H3N(2‐CH2NMe2)]2 (THF)2 (1) in high yield along with elimination of two equiv of HN(SiMe3)2. Similarly, the reaction between two equiv of 2‐t‐butylaminomethyl pyrrole and Mg[N(SiMe3)2]2 in THF renders the magnesium derivative, Mg[C4H3N(2‐CH2NHtBu)]2(THF)22(2) in good yield. Interestingly, reaction between two equiv of 2‐t‐butylaminomethyl pyrrole and Mg[N(SiMe3)2]2 in toluene, instead of THF, generates Mg[C4H3N(2‐CH2NHtBu)]2 (3), also in high yield. Furthermore, the assembly of two equiv of ketimine ligand, HOCMeCHCMeNAr (Ar = C6H3‐2,6‐iPr2) and Mg[N(SiMe3)2]2, yields five‐coordinated magnesium derivatives, Mg(OCMeCHCMeNAr)2(THF) (4) and Mg(OCMeCHCMeNAr)2(OEt2) (5), using THF and diethyl ether, respectively. All the aforementioned derivatives are characterized by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy as well as 1, 3, 4 and 5 are subjected to X‐ray diffraction analysis in solid state.
Chemoselective Palladium‐Catalyzed Oxidation of Vinyl Ether to Acetate Using Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Kon Yoshihiro , Tanaka Shinji , Nakashima Takuya , Sato Kazuhiko , Shimada Hiromichi
Published: May 2014

A practical and environmental‐friendly method was developed to convert vinyl ether into acetate by using a palladium complex with phosphine ligand and hydrogen peroxide. The only by‐product is water.
Nanocomposite of Platinum Particles Embedded into Nanosheets of Polycarbazole for Methanol Oxidation
Authors: Wu Tzi‐Yi , Tsai Cheng‐Jang , Tseng Lan‐Yu , Chen Sin‐Jhih , Hsieh Tar‐Hwa , Kuo Chung‐Wen
Published: May 2014

Nanoparticles of Pt were successfully electrodeposited onto polycarbazole (PCz) film on a stainless steel (SS‐PCz‐Pt) by chronocoulometry (0.2 C). For comparative purposes, Pt particles were deposited into stainless steel (SS‐Pt) under the same condition. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) results confirmed PCz exists in the SS‐PCz‐Pt composite electrode. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results indicated that PCz of SS‐PCz can interact easily with Pt particles. The crystalline behavior and morphology of SS‐PCz‐Pt and SS‐Pt were determined by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The TEM results indicated that Pt particles disperse more uniformly into the nanosheets of polycarbazole than those of SS film. Catalytic activity and stability for the oxidation of methanol were studied by using cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry. A high catalytic current for methanol oxidation (8.04 mA cm−2 mg−1) was found for the SS‐PCz‐Pt electrode in comparison to SS‐Pt electrode (5.01 mA cm−2 mg−1) at about 0.6 V (vs. Ag/AgCl).
Evaluation of Cardiac Markers in Children Undergoing Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Ozturk Gulfer , Tavil Betul , Ozguner Meltem , Ginis Zeynep , Erden Gonul , Tunc Bahattin , Azik M. Fatih , Uckan Duygu , Delibas Namik
Published: May 2014

Background

Early life‐threatening cardiotoxicity and cardiac death have been reported after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The purpose of the current study was to evaluate cardiac toxicity of conventional chemotherapy followed by HSCT with cardiac markers: heart‐type fatty acid binding protein (H‐FABP), glycogen phosphorylase BB (GPBB), high sensitive C reactive protein (hsCRP) cardiac troponin I, (cTnI), creatine kinase MB (CK‐MB mass) and myoglobin.

Methods

A total of 20 children who underwent HSCT for malignant and non‐malignant diseases were included in this study. Blood samples were collected from all patients in 0th, 7th and 21st day for evaluating these cardiac biomarkers. The patients’ echocardiography was assessment before and after one‐month of HSCT.

Results

Serum 21st H‐FABP level was significantly higher when compared with the 0th day H‐FABP level (P < 0.05) . 7th day hsCRP level was significantly higher than 0th and 21st day levels (P < 0.05). Interestingly, 7th day GPBB level was significantly lower than 0th and 21st day levels (P < 0.05). Myoglobin, CK‐MB mass and cTnI biomarkers remained within the reference range in all patients.

Conclusions

This study showed that H‐FABP and hsCRP both seem to be promising markers for evaluation of cardiotoxicity in HSCT process and probably superior to GPBB, cTnI, CK‐MB mass and myoglobin.
Association Between Genetic Polymorphism of the MIF Gene and Colorectal Cancer in Taiwan
Authors: Ramireddy Latha , Chen William Tzu‐Liang , Peng Ching‐Tien , Hu Rouh‐Mei , Ke Tao‐Wei , Chiang Hua‐Che , Chang Sheng‐Chi , Tsai Fuu‐Jen , Lo Wan‐Yu
Published: May 2014

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the highest leading cause of cancer‐related mortality in Taiwan. Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) has recently been defined as a novel protumorigenic factor that promotes cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. The aim of the present study is to identify the association between MIF gene polymorphism and CRC.

Methods

A case–control study was designed to test the hypothesis. A total of 192 biopsy‐diagnosed CRC patients (CRC) and 256 healthy subjects (control) were recruited. Genotyping of four single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs; rs755662, rs11548059, rs1049829, rs1803976) at chromosome positions 755662 (5′ UTR), 11548059 (exon2), 1049829 (exon2), 1803976 (exon3) was performed using a Taqman SNP genotyping assay.

Results

There is a significant difference in genotype frequency distribution of rs755662 polymorphism between CRC patients and controls (P = 0.011). No significant difference was found in the frequency distribution of rs11548059, rs1049829, rs1803976 polymorphism in CRC patients and controls (P = 0.660, P = 0.700, and P = 0.959, respectively). Moreover, the MIF‐173 SNP was also significantly associated with young patients (age < 50 years, P = 0.026) late stage (Stage IV, P = 0.038) and poor differentiation group (P = 0.040). Compared to the control group, the MIF‐173 SNP also significantly associated with patients with stages III and IV (P = 0.034 and 0.003, respectively).

Conclusion

The presence of MIF‐173 (G/C) gene polymorphism (rs755662) was associated with susceptibility, patient age, and stages of CRC in Taiwanese.
Consistency Between Treponema pallidum Particle Agglutination Assay and Architect Chemiluminescent Microparticle Immunoassay and Characterization of Inconsistent Samples
Authors: Zhiyan Li , Meiling Wang , Ping Liu , Jinhua Dong , Zhenlin Yan , Zhenru Feng
Published: May 2014

Background

Treponema pallidum particle agglutination assay (TPPA) has been shown to be highly sensitive and specific at detecting treponemal antibodies and is still used as a confirmatory method in many laboratories, in China. In clinical practice, we found that a significant number of TPPA‐negative sera were identified when TPPA was used as a confirmatory assay of Architect chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) screening‐reactive sera.

Aims

To investigate the consistency between Architect CMIA and TPPA, and analyzed the characterization of TPPA‐negative sera following Screening by Architect CMIA.

Methods

According to the laboratory syphilis confirmatory testing protocol, a total of 4870 sera were initially tested by Architect CMIA and ELISA, and then the samples which shown positive results were tested by TPPA and rapid plasma reagin tests (RPR). Further analysis using Euroimmun dot‐immunoblot (dot‐IBT) assay was performed to the CMIA positive and TPPA negative samples.

Results

In our cohort, we found that the positive rate of CMIA was 3.1% (149/4870). One hundred and twelve of 112 (75.2%) CMIA‐positive sera were TPPA reactive, while 37 (24.8%) sera which were reactive in CMIA were nonreactive by TPPA. Dot‐IBT testing was performed on these 37 sera: 8 (21.6%) were dot‐IBT positive, 11 (29.7%) were indeterminate and 18 (48.6%) negative.

Discussion

In this study, we observed that 18 CMIA‐positive sera were false positives confirmed by dot‐IBT. But, given the relatively high levels of early syphilis, we consider a small increase in the number of confirmatory tests is worthwhile if we can increase the detection of primary syphilis by 20%. We also found that significant numbers (8/37) of CMIA‐positive and TPPA‐negative sera were shown by further dot‐IBT testing to be positive. The reason why certain sera are negative by TPPA but reactive by CMIA and other syphilis confirmatory assays is not clear, and these initial findings should be further explored.

Conclusion

The Architect CMIA is a highly sensitive screening assay for detecting syphilis but it is significantly less specific. Further analysis by TPPA is recommended to confirm the results. We would highlight the fact that in repeatedly screened populations discrepancies between treponemal CMIA and TPPA results are quite prevalent. This seems to be a function of very low levels of syphilis‐specific antibodies. Confirmation by immunoblot assay may be useful.
Corporate Foresight for Corporate Functions: Impacts from Purchasing Functions
Authors: Khripunova Anna , Vishnevskiy Konstantin , Karasev Oleg , Meissner Dirk
Published: May 2014

The complicated nature of organizing tenders requires creating new means and instruments which are designed to improve the choice efficiency and reduce the term of decision making.
Linking Organizational Change Management and Organizational Foresight
Authors: Öner M. Atilla , Benson Caroline , Göl Beşer Senem
Published: May 2014

Managers and policy makers should consider using organizational foresight and twelve success factors in their attempts to improve the impact of foresight project results and steer organizational change.
Visions of a Pole Position: Developing Inimitable Resource Capacity through Enterprise Systems Implementation in Nestlé
Authors: Mitra Amit , Neale Peter
Published: May 2014

Multinational organizations can achieve a non‐replicable capacity and may use the key nature of foresight to support the development and deployment of the enterprise system across several locations around the world.
Tocopherol and tocotrienol contents of different varieties of rice in Malaysia
Authors: Shammugasamy Balakrishnan , Ramakrishnan Yogeshini , Ghazali Hasanah M , Muhammad Kharidah
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND

The present study examined the contents of tocopherols and tocotrienols and their distribution in 58 different varieties of whole rice cultivated in Malaysia. The analytical method used was saponification of samples followed by dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction and reverse phase high‐performance liquid chromatography.

RESULTS

The total vitamin E contents of different varieties of whole rice ranged between 19.36 and 63.29 mg kg−1. Contents of vitamin E isomers varied among rice varieties both within and between grain color groups. Black‐pigmented rice showed significantly higher mean contents of α‐tocopherol, β‐tocopherol and α‐tocotrienol than non‐pigmented rice and red‐pigmented rice. Red‐pigmented rice had significantly lower mean contents of γ‐tocotrienol and total vitamin E than non‐pigmented rice. The mean contents of δ‐tocotrienol and total vitamin E in non‐pigmented rice, however, were similar to those in black‐pigmented rice. γ‐Tocotrienol was the predominant form of vitamin E isomer in all analyzed varieties. The Pearson correlations among vitamin E isomers and total vitamin E content of whole rice were also studied.

CONCLUSION

This study provides information on vitamin E content of different rice varieties that would be beneficial for decision making in genetic breeding of bioactive compound‐rich rice varieties. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Antioxidant effects of the monoterpenes carvacrol, thymol and sabinene hydrate on chemical and sensory stability of roasted sunflower seeds
Authors: Quiroga Patricia R , Asensio Claudia M , Nepote Valeria
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND

Oxidation products and rancid flavors decrease the sensory quality of food products, making them unacceptable to consumers. Synthetic antioxidants are used in many foods to prevent rancidity, though their safety is questioned. Monoterpenes are obtained from essential oils and many of them have shown antioxidant activity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the stability of sensory and chemical parameters in roasted sunflower seeds supplemented with carvacrol, thymol and sabinene hydrate monoterpenes.

RESULTS

Five samples were prepared: control roasted sunflower seeds (RS‐C) and sunflower seeds treated with carvacrol (RS‐Car), sabinene hydrate (RS‐S), thymol (RS‐T) and butylated hydroxytoluene (RS‐BHT). The three monoterpenes (carvacrol, sabinene hydrate and thymol) provided protection to this food product, inhibiting the formation of oxidative deterioration compounds such as peroxides and hexanal and undesirable off‐flavors such as oxidized and cardboard flavors. Sabinene hydrate had greater effect preventing peroxide formation during storage than the other monoterpenes.

CONCLUSION

Carvacrol, sabinene hydrate and thymol could be used as an alternative to synthetic antioxidants for preserving the quality of roasted sunflower seeds. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Amelioration of Sodic Soil for Wheat Cultivation Using Bioaugmented Organic Soil Amendment
Authors: Srivastava Pankaj Kumar , Gupta Manjul , Shikha  , Singh Nandita , Tewari Shri Krishna
Published: May 2014

A novel bioaugmented organic amendment (SFOA) [consisted of vermicompost (pre‐enriched with plant growth promoting fungi) mixed with pressmud and Azadirachta indica (A. Juss.) seed cake] was developed to reclaim sodic soil and support wheat production. A field trial of the SFOA application with/without chemical fertilizers conducted in completely randomized design with four replications to compare growth, yield and seed protein contents of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) on sodic soil. The favourable changes occurred in different properties of amended soils were studied. A combined application of chemical fertilizer and SFOA significantly (p < 0·05) increased the number of spikelet per plant (63%) and weight of grains per ear (65%) in the amended soil compared with the control. Likewise, the grain yield, weight of 1000 grains and seed protein contents of wheat were significantly (p < 0·05) increased in the combined application compared with other treatments. The expression of protein bands with molecular weights of 36, 52 and 66 kDa were higher in seeds of wheat under the combined treatment. The improvement in wheat production was attributed to significant favourable changes in different soil characteristics such as bulk density, total organic C, alkaline phosphatase, β‐glucosidase, dehydrogenase and cellulase activities that were increased by 234%, 181%, 234%, 176%, 189% and 150%, respectively, in case of amended soil under the combined treatment compared with the control. The tested SFOA may be recommended as soil amendment for reclaiming sodic soil and supporting wheat cultivation with better crop growth and yield in combination with chemical fertilizers on sodic soil. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Waiting time predicts survival after liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma: A cohort study using the United Network for Organ Sharing registry
Authors: Schlansky Barry , Chen Yiyi , Scott David L. , Austin Donald , Naugler Willscott E.
Published: May 2014

Recipients of liver transplantation (LT) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have an 8% to 20% risk of HCC recurrence. Single-center studies suggest that a period of waiting after HCC therapy may facilitate the selection of patients at low risk for post-LT HCC recurrence and mortality. We evaluated whether a longer waiting time after Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) prioritization for HCC predicts longer post-LT survival. From the United Network for Organ Sharing registry, we selected 2 groups registered for LT between March 2005 and March 2009: (1) HCC patients receiving MELD prioritization and (2) non-HCC patients. Patients were stratified by their MELD status at LT (a marker of time on the wait list after HCC MELD prioritization) and were followed from LT until death or censoring through October 2012. By comparing post-LT survival to intention-to-treat (ITT) survival from registration, we assessed predictors of post-LT survival and estimated the benefit of LT. The median MELD scores at LT were 22 (HCC) and 24 (non-HCC). A higher MELD score at LT was independently associated with lower post-LT mortality in the HCC group [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.84, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.73-0.98] and higher post-LT mortality in the non-HCC group (HR = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.15-1.25). Compared with the HCC group, the non-HCC group had lower post-LT mortality [relative risk (RR) = 0.85, log-rank P < 0.01] but higher ITT mortality (RR = 1.25, log-rank P < 0.01) because of a 33 percentage point lower probability of undergoing LT. In conclusion, a longer waiting time before LT for HCC predicted longer post-LT survival in a national transplant registry. Delaying LT for HCC may reduce disparities in ITT survival and access to LT among different indications and thereby improve system utility and organ allocation equity for the overall pool of LT candidates. Liver Transpl 20:1045–1056, 2014. © 2014 AASLD.
Influence of Solution Parameters on Phase Diagram of Recombinant Spider Silk‐Like Block Copolymers
Authors: Krishnaji Sreevidhya Tarakkad , Huang Wenwen , Cebe Peggy , Kaplan David L.
Published: May 2014

Spider silks form interesting protein‐based materials with exceptional mechanical properties from processing in aqueous systems. To more fully understand the role of specific chemical domains in the proteins responsible for these material features, selective regions are utilized to assess structure–function relationships. Toward this goal, the amphiphilic spider silk‐like block copolymer HBA6 [hexahistidine tag (H), with hydrophilic (B) and hydrophobic (A) blocks] is studied to generate a partial phase diagram of the morphologies formed under different processing environments. Particles of HBA6 are prepared from a 2 m phosphate buffer at pH 5 and 8, and the resultant phase behavior upon ammonium sulfate (AS) addition is examined at room temperature for protein concentrations from 0.1 to 17 wt%. There is no apparent difference in the sizes of the microspheres formed at pH 8, irrespective of the amount of AS. In contrast, mixed morphologies ranging from unordered structures to clustered sheets to nanofibril‐like morphologies are obtained at pH 5 with varying concentrations of AS. A partial ternary phase diagram is reported, representing the different morphologies obtained by changing the concentrations of HBA6, AS, and water. Differences in the morphologies as observed from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) are the result of altered protein‐solute, interprotein, and intraprotein interactions caused by changing the pH and AS concentrations. The characteristics of the different morphologies illustrate how material properties based on motifs from spider silks can be tuned towards specific features, an important control point for matching materials to applications.

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2‐(1‐(2,4‐Bis((di(4‐fluorophenyl)methyl)‐6‐methylphenylimino)ethyl)‐6‐(1‐(arylimino)ethyl)pyridylmetal (iron or cobalt) Complexes: Synthesis, Characterization, and Ethylene Polymerization Behavior
Authors: Zhang Wenjuan , Wang Shaoli , Du Shizhen , Guo Cun‐Yue , Hao Xiang , Sun Wen‐Hua
Published: May 2014

A series of 2‐(1‐(2,4‐bis((di(4‐fluorophenyl)methyl)‐6‐methylphenylimino)ethyl)‐6‐(1‐(aryl­imino)ethyl)pyridines is synthesized and used to form their corresponding iron(II) and cobalt(II) chloride complexes thereof. All the organic compounds are fully characterized by elemental analysis, and IR and 1H/13C NMR spectroscopy, whereas the corresponding iron and cobalt complexes are characterized by elemental analysis and IR spectroscopy, as well as single‐crystal crystallography for the Fe2, Co1, and Co2 complexes, revealing a distorted trigonal bipyramidal structure. Upon activation with either methylaluminoxane (MAO) or modified methylaluminoxane (MMAO), all the iron complexes exhibit high activities toward ethylene polymerization at 60 °C; meanwhile, all the cobalt analogs demonstrate slightly lower activities at the optimized temperatures of 60 °C (MAO as cocatalyst) or 70 °C (MMAO as cocatalyst). All the polyethylenes obtained from cobalt precatalysts possess narrow polydispersity and lower molecular weights than those from their iron analogs.

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Encapsulated PDMS Microspheres with Reactive Handles
Authors: González Lidia , Baoguang Ma , Li Li , Hansen Jens Henrik , Hvilsted Søren , Skov Anne Ladegaard
Published: May 2014

Cured poly(dimethyl siloxane) microspheres are prepared by an emulsion polymerization reaction of silicone droplets in a continuous aqueous phase. The commonly used PDMS elastomer, Sylgard 184 from Dow Corning, is used as the dispersed phase. PDMS is polymerized and cross‐linked by reacting vinyl end‐terminated poly(dimethyl siloxane) oligomers with dimethylmethylhydrogen siloxane cross‐linkers via the hydrosilylation reaction using platinum catalyst and heat. Weight ratios of 10:1, 20:1, and 25:1 of the PDMS mixtures are used and emulsified in water using two water‐soluble surfactants as stabilizers (sodium dodecyl sulphate and polyvinylalcohol). The temperature is subsequently increased to accelerate the rate of cross‐linking and prevent the prepolymer droplets from coalescing. The particle size distribution of cured PDMS microspheres is determined by Mastersizer (laser diffraction). Finally, cured PDMS microspheres are coated with poly(methyl methacrylate) using a chemical process (solvent evaporation technique). Three solvents are used in three different experiments: dichloromethane, tetrahydrofuran, and acetone. The composition and morphology of the cured PDMS microspheres and PMMA coated cured PDMS microspheres are characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy in attenuated‐total‐reflection mode, optical microscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. Curing profiles of PDMS elastomer with different ratios between the silicone elastomer base and the silicone elastomer curing agent are obtained. The reactivity of cured PDMS microspheres and PMMA coated cured PDMS microspheres are measured by rheology to evaluate the efficiency of the PMMA coating.
Interspecies communication between plant and mouse gut host cells through edible plant derived exosome‐like nanoparticles
Authors: Mu Jingyao , Zhuang Xiaoying , Wang Qilong , Jiang Hong , Deng Zhong‐Bin , Wang Baomei , Zhang Lifeng , Kakar Sham , Jun Yan , Miller Donald , Zhang Huang‐Ge
Published: May 2014

Scope

Exosomes, small vesicles participating in intercellular communication, have been extensively studied recently; however, the role of edible plant derived exosomes in interspecies communication has not been investigated. Here, we investigate the biological effects of edible plant derived exosome‐like nanoparticles (EPDENs) on mammalian cells.

Methods and results

In this study, exosome‐like nanoparticles from four edible plants were isolated and characterized. We show that these EPDENs contain proteins, lipids, and microRNA. EPDENs are taken up by intestinal macrophages and stem cells. The results generated from EPDEN‐transfected macrophages indicate that ginger EPDENs preferentially induce the expression of the antioxidation gene, heme oxygenase‐1 and the anti‐inflammatory cytokine, IL‐10; whereas grapefruit, ginger, and carrot EPDENs promote activation of nuclear factor like (erythroid‐derived 2). Furthermore, analysis of the intestines of canonical Wnt‐reporter mice, i.e. B6.Cg‐Tg(BAT‐lacZ)3Picc/J mice, revealed that the numbers of β‐galactosidase+ (β‐Gal) intestinal crypts are increased, suggesting that EPDEN treatment of mice leads to Wnt‐mediated activation of the TCF4 transcription machinery in the crypts.

Conclusion

The data suggest a role for EPDEN‐mediated interspecies communication by inducing expression of genes for anti‐inflammation cytokines, antioxidation, and activation of Wnt signaling, which are crucial for maintaining intestinal homeostasis.
Do Inpatient Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation Programmes Improve Health Status in People with Long‐Term Musculoskeletal Conditions? A Service Evaluation
Authors: McCuish William J. , Bearne Lindsay M.
Published: May 2014

Background

Long‐term musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions impair health and function. Guidelines recommend a multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach for the optimum management of people with long‐term MSK conditions, but there is limited evidence for MDT care. This service evaluation investigates the short‐term effectiveness of an inpatient MDT rehabilitation programme on self‐reported function and disease status in people with long‐term MSK conditions.

Methods

A convenience sample of adults with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis (OA), low back pain (LBP) and chronic widespread pain (CWP) participated in an inpatient MDT rehabilitation programme, consisting of needs assessment, collaborative goal setting and planning, exercise and self‐management. The Routine Assessment of Patient Index Data (RAPID3) (primary outcome), the Multi‐Dimensional Health Assessment Questionnaire (MDHAQ), Pain Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and global well‐being VAS were assessed at baseline and immediately following MDT rehabilitation.

Results

A total of 183 people [mean age 62 (standard deviation, 14.5) years, 145 females] with RA, OA, LBP or CWP were evaluated before and after inpatient MDT rehabilitation (median duration, ten days). Overall, there was a 28% improvement in RAPID3 (mean difference [95% confidence intervals] in effect size, 5.0 [4.3, 5.8], d = –0.98, p < 0.05). Clinically relevant changes were found in people with RA (5.7 [4.4, 6.9], d = –1.08, p < 0.05, 32%), OA 6.1 [3.4, 8.7], d = –1.07, p < 0.05, 35%), LBP 4.0 [2.8, 5.2], d = –0.91, p < 0.05, 22%), CWP 4.6 [2.7, 6.6], d = –0.84, p < 0.05, 25%). These changes were reflected in all secondary outcomes.

Conclusion

This inpatient MDT rehabilitation programme provides short‐term evidence of improved function and disease status in people with long term MSK conditions. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hierarchical Biointerfaces Assembled by Leukocyte‐Inspired Particles for Specifically Recognizing Cancer Cells
Authors: Meng Jingxin , Liu Hongliang , Liu Xueli , Yang Gao , Zhang Pengchao , Wang Shutao , Jiang Lei
Published: May 2014

By mimicking certain biochemical and physical attributes of biological cells, bio‐inspired particles have attracted great attention for potential biomedical applications based on cell‐like biological functions. Inspired by leukocytes, hierarchical biointerfaces are designed and prepared based on specific molecules‐modified leukocyte‐inspired particles. These biointerfaces can efficiently recognize cancer cells from whole blood samples through the synergistic effect of molecular recognition and topographical interaction. Compared to flat, mono‐micro or nano‐biointerfaces, these micro/nano hierarchical biointerfaces are better able to promote specific recognition interactions, resulting in an enhanced cell‐capture efficiency. It is anticipated that this study may provide promising guidance to develop new bio‐inspired hierarchical biointerfaces for biomedical applications.