bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the effects of phenyl dichlorophosphate modified and unmodified β‐iron(III) oxide hydroxide on the thermal, combustion, and mechanical properties of ethylene–vinyl acetate/magnesium hydroxide composites
Authors: Wang Lei , Zhan Jing , Song Lei , Hu Yuan , Yuen Richard K. K.
Published: November 2013

The objective of this study was to compare the impact of β‐iron(III) oxide hydroxide [β‐Fe(O)OH] and iron hydroxide modified with phenyl dichlorophosphate [β‐Fe(O)OPDCP] on the thermal, combustion, and mechanical properties of ethylene–vinyl acetate (EVA)/magnesium hydroxide (MH) composites. For the EVA/MH composites in combination with these iron‐containing co‐additives, β‐Fe(O)OH and β‐Fe(O)OPDCP both led to an increase in the thermal stability at higher temperatures. The results of microscale combustion calorimetry indicate that the peak heat‐release rate, total heat release, and heat‐release capacity, which are indicators of a material fire hazard, all decreased. Moreover, significant improvements were obtained in the limiting oxygen index (LOI) and Underwriters Laboratories 94 ratings. However, the EVA4 system reached a V‐0 rating, whereas the EVA3 system reached a V‐2 rating. The LOI values for the EVA3 and EVA4 systems were 35 and 39, respectively. A homogeneous and solid structure of char residue caused by β‐Fe(O)OPDCP was observed by scanning electron microscopy. Furthermore, because of the good interfacial compatibility between the fillers and the EVA matrix, the EVA4 system presented better mechanical properties than the EVA3 system. Thermogravimetric analysis/IR spectrometry showed that β‐Fe(O)OPDCP reduced the combustible volatilized products of EVA/MH. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40112.
Preparation, characterization, and adsorption performance of p‐hydroxybenzoic acid imprinted polymer and selective catalysis of toluene to para‐chlorotoluene
Authors: Meng Minjia , Bao Lanlan , He Minqiang , Sun Kaiyong , Li Weibing , Zhao Dexiang , Feng Yonghai , Yan Yongsheng
Published: November 2013

A p‐hydroxybenzoic acid surface molecularly imprinted polymer (p‐HB–SMIP) with silica microspheres as a supporting matrix was prepared by the adoption of the surface molecular imprinting technique with acrylamide (AM) as a functional monomer, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate as a crosslinker, and azoisobutyronitrile as an initiator. The p‐HB–SMIP was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetry. Interactions between the functional monomer and template were observed with UV–visible spectroscopy of the solutions of these components as well. The results indicate that a 1:2 molecular complex was formed between p‐hydroxybenzoic acid (p‐HB) and AM. A kinetic binding study showed that p‐HB–SMIP reached saturation adsorption after about 1 h, and the pseudo‐second‐order model fitted the adsorption kinetics data. Static adsorption experiments revealed that the Freundlich equation fitted the adsorption isotherm data. The thermodynamics parameters (with positive values of enthalpy and entropy and negative values of Gibbs free energy) indicated that the binding system for p‐HB–SMIP was endothermic and entropy was gained and was spontaneous. Selective experiments showed that p‐HB–SMIP had a high affinity and excellent recognition selectivity for the template p‐HB. p‐HB–SMIP was further investigated by the catalysis of toluene to para‐chlorotoluene. The catalytic reaction results showed that the conversion of toluene was 85.5% and the molar ratio of para‐chlorotoluene to o‐chorotoluene was 1.38; this was higher than that of traditional catalysts. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40118.
Methylaluminoxane‐activated neodymium chloride tributylphosphate catalyst for isoprene polymerization
Authors: Hu Yanming , Zhang Chunqing , Liu Xianguang , Gao Keke , Cao Yuming , Zhang Chunyu , Zhang Xuequan
Published: November 2013

The polymerization of isoprene was examined by using a novel binary catalyst system composed of neodymium chloride tributylphosphate (NdCl3·3TBP) and methylaluminoxane (MAO). The NdCl3·3TBP/MAO catalyst worked effectively in a low MAO level ([Al]/[Nd] = 50) to afford polymers with high molecular weight (Mn ∼105), narrow molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn = 1.4–1.6), and high cis‐1,4 stereoregularity (> 96%). The catalytic activity increased with an increasing [Al]/[Nd] ratio from 30 to 100 and polymerization temperature from 0 to 50°C, while the Mn of polymer decreased. The presence of free TBP resulted in low polymer yield. Polymerization solvent remarkably affected the polymerization behaviors; the polymerizations in aliphatic solvents (cyclohexane and hexane) gave polymer in higher yield than that in toluene. The Mw/Mn ratio of the producing polymer remained around 1.5 and the gel permeation chromatographic curve was always unimodal, indicating the presence of a single active site in the polymerization system. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40153.
Growth in Densely Populated Asia: Implications for Primary Product Exporters
Authors: Anderson Kym , Strutt Anna
Published: November 2013

Economic growth and integration in Asia is rapidly increasing the global economic importance of the region. To the extent that this growth continues and is strongest in natural resource‐poor Asian economies, it will add to global demand for imports of primary products, to the benefit of (especially nearby) resource‐abundant countries. How will global production, consumption and trade patterns change by 2030 in the course of such economic developments and structural changes? We address this question using the GTAP model and Version 8.1 of the 2007 GTAP database, together with supplementary data from a range of sources, to support projections of the global economy from 2007 to 2030 under various scenarios. Factor endowments and real gross domestic product are assumed to grow at exogenous rates, and trade‐related policies are kept unchanged to generate a core baseline, which is compared with an alternative slower growth scenario. We also consider the impact of several policy changes aimed at increasing China's agricultural self‐sufficiency relative to the 2030 baseline. Policy implications for countries of the Asia‐Pacific region are drawn out in the final section.
Thymidine Phosphorylase Regulates the Expression of CXCL10 in Rheumatoid Arthritis Fibroblast‐like Synoviocytes
Authors: Toyoda Yuko , Tabata Sho , Kishi Jun , Kuramoto Takuya , Mitsuhashi Atsushi , Saijo Atsuro , Kawano Hiroshi , Goto Hisatsugu , Aono Yoshinori , Hanibuchi Masaki , Horikawa Hideaki , Nakajima Toshihiro , Furukawa Tatsuhiko , Sone Saburo , Akiyama Shin‐ichi , Nishioka Yasuhiko
Published: November 2013

Objective

Thymidine phosphorylase (TP) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) fibroblast‐like synoviocytes (FLS) is induced by tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) and other cytokines that have been reported to be major inflammation mediators in RA. We previously demonstrated that TP plays an important role in angiogenesis and tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the role of TP in the pathogenesis of RA is similar to its role in tumors.

Methods

In FLS obtained from 2 patients with RA, the expression of TP, interferon‐γ (IFNγ)–inducible protein 10 (CXCL10), and other cytokines was measured by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, immunoblotting, and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays. Microarray analysis was performed using FLS transfected with TYMP complementary DNA and treated with a TP inhibitor.

Results

The expression of TP in FLS was up‐regulated by TNFα, interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), IL‐17, IFNγ, and lipopolysaccharide. Microarray analysis of FLS overexpressing TP identified CXCL10 as a thymidine phosphorylase–related gene. The expression of CXCL10 was induced by TNFα, and this induction was suppressed by TYMP small interfering RNA and TP inhibitor. Furthermore, the combination of TNFα and IFNγ synergistically augmented the expression of TP and CXCL10. TP‐induced CXCL10 expression was suppressed by the antioxidant EUK‐8. In the synovial tissue of patients with RA, TP levels were significantly correlated with CXCL10 expression.

Conclusion

The combination of TNFα and IFNγ strongly induced the expression of thymidine phosphorylase in RA FLS. The induction of thymidine phosphorylase enhanced the expression of CXCL10, which may contribute to the Th1 phenotype and bone destruction observed in RA.
Predictors of Clinical Improvement in Rituximab‐Treated Refractory Adult and Juvenile Dermatomyositis and Adult Polymyositis
Authors: Aggarwal Rohit , Bandos Andriy , Reed Ann M. , Ascherman Dana P. , Barohn Richard J. , Feldman Brian M. , Miller Frederick W. , Rider Lisa G. , Harris‐Love Michael O. , Levesque Marc C. ,   the RIM Study Group, Oddis Chester V.
Published: November 2013

Objective

To identify the clinical and laboratory predictors of clinical improvement in a cohort of myositis patients treated with rituximab.

Methods

We analyzed data for 195 patients with myositis (75 with adult polymyositis [PM], 72 with adult dermatomyositis [DM], and 48 with juvenile DM) in the Rituximab in Myositis trial. Clinical improvement was defined as 20% improvement in at least 3 of the following 6 core set measures of disease activity: physician's and patient's/parent's global assessment of disease activity, manual muscle testing, physical function, muscle enzymes, and extramuscular disease activity. We analyzed the association of the following baseline variables with improvement: myositis clinical subgroup, demographics, myositis damage, clinical and laboratory parameters, core set measures, rituximab treatment, and myositis autoantibodies (antisynthetase, anti–Mi‐2, anti–signal recognition particle, anti–transcription intermediary factor 1γ [TIF‐1γ], anti‐MJ, other autoantibodies, and no autoantibodies). All measures were univariately assessed for association with improvement using time‐to‐event analyses. A multivariable time‐dependent proportional hazards model was used to evaluate the association of individual predictive factors with improvement.

Results

In the final multivariable model, the presence of an antisynthetase, primarily anti–Jo‐1 (hazard ratio [HR] 3.08, P < 0.01), anti–Mi‐2 (HR 2.5, P < 0.01), or other autoantibody (HR 1.4, P = 0.14) predicted a shorter time to improvement compared to the absence of autoantibodies. A lower physician's global assessment of damage (HR 2.32, P = 0.02) and juvenile DM (versus adult myositis) (HR 2.45, P = 0.01) also predicted improvement. Unlike autoantibody status, the predictive effect of physician's global assessment of damage and juvenile DM diminished by week 20. Rituximab treatment did not affect these associations.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that the presence of antisynthetase and anti–Mi‐2 autoantibodies, juvenile DM subset, and lower disease damage strongly predict clinical improvement in patients with refractory myositis.
Features of the Synovium of Individuals at Risk of Developing Rheumatoid Arthritis: Implications for Understanding Preclinical Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: de Hair M. J. H. , van de Sande M. G. H. , Ramwadhdoebe T. H. , Hansson M. , Landewé R. , van der Leij C. , Maas M. , Serre G. , van Schaardenburg D. , Klareskog L. , Gerlag D. M. , van Baarsen L. G. M. , Tak P. P.
Published: November 2013

Objective

Findings from previous studies have suggested that subclinical inflammation of the synovium does not coincide with the appearance of rheumatoid arthritis (RA)–specific autoantibodies. This study was undertaken to examine the relationship between the presence of autoantibodies, changes in the synovium, and development of arthritis over time in a markedly larger, prospective study.

Methods

Fifty‐five individuals who were IgM rheumatoid factor positive and/or anti–citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA) positive (detected by the anti–cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody test) and who were without any evidence of arthritis upon physical examination were included in the study. ACPAs were subsequently also detected using a multiplex chip‐based assay. All individuals underwent magnetic resonance imaging and mini‐arthroscopic synovial biopsy sampling of a knee joint at inclusion and were prospectively followed up. Proportional hazards regression analysis was performed to investigate whether changes in the synovium were associated with the onset of arthritis.

Results

Fifteen individuals (27%) developed arthritis after a median followup time of 13 months (interquartile range 6–27 months; range 1–47 months). No overt synovial inflammation was observed, but CD3+ T cell numbers in the biopsy tissue showed a borderline association with subsequent development of clinically manifest arthritis (hazard ratio 2.8, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.9–9.1; P = 0.088). In addition, the presence of CD8+ T cells was associated with ACPA positivity (odds ratio [OR] 16.0, 95% CI 1.7–151.1) and with the total number of ACPAs present (OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.0–1.8).

Conclusion

These findings confirm and extend previous results showing the absence of clearcut synovial inflammation in individuals having systemic autoimmunity associated with RA. However, subtle infiltration by synovial T cells may precede the signs and symptoms of arthritis in preclinical RA.
Ultrasound Assessment of Synovial Pathologic Features in Rheumatoid Arthritis Using Comprehensive Multiplane Images of the Second Metacarpophalangeal Joint: Identification of the Components That Are Reliable and Influential on the Global Assessment of the Whole Joint
Authors: Ikeda Kei , Seto Yohei , Narita Akihiro , Kawakami Atsushi , Kawahito Yutaka , Ito Hiromu , Matsushita Isao , Ohno Shigeru , Nishida Keiichiro , Suzuki Takeshi , Kaneko Atsushi , Ogasawara Michihiro , Fukae Jun , Henmi Mihoko , Sumida Takayuki , Kamishima Tamotsu , Koike Takao ,   for the Japan College of Rheumatology Committee for the Standardization of Musculoskeletal Ultrasonography
Published: November 2013

Objective

The aim of this pilot study was to provide groundwork that could be utilized to optimize the global ultrasound (US) assessment of the whole joint for synovial pathologic features in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

US images of the second metacarpophalangeal joint in 8 predefined imaging planes, comprising regions that comprehensively capture the synovial pathologic features of the whole joint, were obtained from 30 patients with RA. Twelve experienced sonographers evaluated these images at the level of both the individual image and the whole joint, using a visual analog scale (VAS) to assess pathologic severity. Interrater reproducibility of the VAS scores was evaluated with intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), and factors that independently influenced the global assessment of the whole joint were identified using multiple linear regression analysis.

Results

A total of 14,276 VAS scores were analyzed. Interrater reproducibility of any eligible VAS assessment of synovial pathologic features was good (ICC 0.65). US assessment of synovial pathologic features in joints with mild inflammation was less reproducible than that in joints with severe inflammation. Although the most severely affected region in a joint did not always represent the average pathologic severity among the 8 regions, global assessment of the whole joint strongly correlated with assessment of the most severely affected region (P < 0.001). Importantly, the standard, midline imaging plane was not the most influential plane on the global assessment of the whole joint. Assessment of synovial fluid accumulation was not reproducible (ICCs 0.20–0.42) and did not substantially influence the global assessment of synovial inflammation (β = 0.06).

Conclusion

The results of this study provide a unique data set that could be utilized to optimize the global US assessment of synovial pathologic features of the whole joint in patients with RA.
Spinal Inflammation in the Absence of Sacroiliac Joint Inflammation on Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients With Active Nonradiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis
Authors: van der Heijde Désirée , Sieper Joachim , Maksymowych Walter P. , Brown Matthew A. , Lambert Robert G. W. , Rathmann Suchitrita S. , Pangan Aileen L.
Published: November 2013

Objective

To evaluate the presence of spinal inflammation with and without sacroiliac (SI) joint inflammation on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with active nonradiographic axial spondyloarthritis (SpA), and to compare the disease characteristics of these subgroups.

Methods

ABILITY‐1 is a multicenter, randomized, controlled trial of adalimumab versus placebo in patients with nonradiographic axial SpA classified using the Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society axial SpA criteria. Baseline MRIs were centrally scored independently by 2 readers using the Spondyloarthritis Research Consortium of Canada (SPARCC) method for the SI joints and the SPARCC 6–discovertebral unit method for the spine. Positive evidence of inflammation on MRI was defined as a SPARCC score of ≥2 for either the SI joints or the spine.

Results

Among patients with baseline SPARCC scores, 40% had an SI joint score of ≥2 and 52% had a spine score of ≥2. Forty‐nine percent of patients with baseline SI joint scores of <2, and 58% of those with baseline SI joint scores of ≥2, had a spine score of ≥2. Comparison of baseline disease characteristics by baseline SI joint and spine scores showed that a greater proportion of patients in the subgroup with a baseline SPARCC score of ≥2 for both SI joints and spine were male, and patients with spine and SI joint scores of <2 were younger and had shorter symptom duration. SPARCC spine scores correlated with baseline symptom duration, and SI joint scores correlated negatively with the baseline Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index, but neither correlated with the baseline Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score, total back pain, the patient's global assessment of disease activity, the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index, morning stiffness, nocturnal pain, or C‐reactive protein level.

Conclusion

Assessment by experienced readers showed that spinal inflammation on MRI might be observed in half of patients with nonradiographic axial SpA without SI joint inflammation.
Human Anatomy: Let the students tell us how to teach
Authors: Davis Christopher R. , Bates Anthony S. , Ellis Harold , Roberts Alice M.
Published: November 2013

Anatomy teaching methods have evolved as the medical undergraduate curriculum has modernized. Traditional teaching methods of dissection, prosection, tutorials and lectures are now supplemented by anatomical models and e‐learning. Despite these changes, the preferences of medical students and anatomy faculty towards both traditional and contemporary teaching methods and tools are largely unknown. This study quantified medical student and anatomy faculty opinion on various aspects of anatomical teaching at the Department of Anatomy, University of Bristol, UK. A questionnaire was used to explore the perceived effectiveness of different anatomical teaching methods and tools among anatomy faculty (AF) and medical students in year one (Y1) and year two (Y2). A total of 370 preclinical medical students entered the study (76% response rate). Responses were quantified and intergroup comparisons were made. All students and AF were strongly in favor of access to cadaveric specimens and supported traditional methods of small‐group teaching with medically qualified demonstrators. Other teaching methods, including e‐learning, anatomical models and surgical videos, were considered useful educational tools. In several areas there was disharmony between the opinions of AF and medical students. This study emphasizes the importance of collecting student preferences to optimize teaching methods used in the undergraduate anatomy curriculum. Anat Sci Educ 7: 262–272. © 2013 American Association of Anatomists.
A novel method for the immobilization of a thermostable fungal chitinase and the properties of the immobilized enzyme
Authors: Prasad Muthu , Palanivelu Peramachi
Published: November 2013

The recombinant thermostable fungal chitinase of Thermomyces lanuginosus was immobilized on the phenyl Sepharose matrix, and the properties of the immobilized chitinase were studied. The immobilized enzyme was optimally active at pH 6.0 and 50 °C and showed improved activity in the acidic range of pH values when compared with the soluble enzyme. The recombinant thermostable immobilized enzyme showed remarkable thermostability at 50 °C by retaining about 45% of the activity for more than 6 H. The KM and Vmax values were 1.3 mM and 4.5 mol/min/mg of protein, respectively. Both the free and immobilized forms of the enzymes were inhibited significantly by Ag+ but behaved similarly to various other metal ions, detergents, and additives. The immobilized enzyme was stable for at least 1 month at 4 °C.
Exploring the transcriptome space of a recombinant BHK cell line through next generation sequencing
Authors: Johnson Kathryn C. , Yongky Andrew , Vishwanathan Nandita , Jacob Nitya M. , Jayapal Karthik P. , Goudar Chetan T. , Karypis George , Hu Wei‐Shou
Published: November 2013

Baby Hamster Kidney (BHK) cell lines are used in the production of veterinary vaccines and recombinant proteins. To facilitate transcriptome analysis of BHK cell lines, we embarked on an effort to sequence, assemble, and annotate transcript sequences from a recombinant BHK cell line and Syrian hamster liver and brain. RNA‐seq data were supplemented with 6,170 Sanger ESTs from parental and recombinant BHK lines to generate 221,583 contigs. Annotation by homology to other species, primarily mouse, yielded more than 15,000 unique Ensembl mouse gene IDs with high coverage of KEGG canonical pathways. High coverage of enzymes and isoforms was seen for cell metabolism and N‐glycosylation pathways, areas of highest interest for biopharmaceutical production. With the high sequencing depth in RNA‐seq data, we set out to identify single‐nucleotide variants in the transcripts. A majority of the high‐confidence variants detected in both hamster tissue libraries occurred at a frequency of 50%, indicating their origin as heterozygous germline variants. In contrast, the cell line libraries' variants showed a wide range of occurrence frequency, indicating the presence of a heterogeneous population in cultured cells. The extremely high coverage of transcripts of highly abundant genes in RNA‐seq enabled us to identify low‐frequency variants. Experimental verification through Sanger sequencing confirmed the presence of two variants in the cDNA of a highly expressed gene in the BHK cell line. Furthermore, we detected seven potential missense mutations in the genes of the growth signaling pathways that may have arisen during the cell line derivation process. The development and characterization of a BHK reference transcriptome will facilitate future efforts to understand, monitor, and manipulate BHK cells. Our study on sequencing variants is crucial for improved understanding of the errors inherent in high‐throughput sequencing and to increase the accuracy of variant calling in BHK or other systems. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2014;111: 770–781. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Controlled local presentation of matrix proteins in microparticle–laden cell aggregates
Authors: Bernard Abigail B. , Chapman Rebeccah Z. , Anseth Kristi S.
Published: November 2013

Multi‐cellular aggregates are found in healthy and diseased tissues, and while cell–cell contact is important for regulating many cell functions, cells also interact, to varying degrees, with extra‐cellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Islets of Langerhans are one such example of cell aggregates in contact with ECM, both at the periphery of the cluster and dispersed throughout. While several studies have investigated the effect of reintroducing contact with ECM proteins on islet cell survival and function, the majority of these experiments only allow contact with the exterior cells. Thus, cell‐culture platforms that enable the study of ECM–cell interactions throughout multi‐cellular aggregates are of interest. Here, local presentation of ECM proteins was achieved using hydrogel microwell arrays to incorporate protein‐laden microparticles during formation of MIN6 β‐cell aggregates. Varying the microparticle seeding density reproducibly controlled the number of microparticles incorporated within three‐dimensional aggregates (i.e., total amount of protein). Further, a relatively uniform spatial distribution of laminin‐ and fibronectin‐coated microparticles was achieved throughout the x‐, y‐, and z‐directions. Multiple ECM proteins were presented to β‐cells in concert by incorporating two distinct populations of microparticles throughout the aggregates. Finally, scaling the microwell device dimensions allowed for the formation of two different sized cell–particle aggregates, ∼80 and 160 µm in diameter. While the total number of microparticles incorporated per aggregate varied with size, the fraction of the aggregate occupied by microparticles was affected only by the microparticle seeding density, indicating that uniform local concentrations of proteins can be preserved while changing the overall aggregate dimensions. Biotechnol. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2014;111: 1028–1037. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
SunnyTALEN: A second‐generation TALEN system for human genome editing
Authors: Sun Ning , Bao Zehua , Xiong Xiong , Zhao Huimin
Published: November 2013

Transcription activator‐like effector nucleases (TALENs) have rapidly emerged as a powerful genome editing tool. The site‐specific DNA double‐strand breaks generated by TALENs in the human chromosome can induce homologous recombination or non‐homologous end joining, resulting in desired genetic modifications. In this study, we report the development of a TALEN variant, SunnyTALEN, with >2.5‐fold improved genome editing efficacy in human cells. The corresponding scaffold increases the rate of genetic modification at all the 13 tested loci of human genome and is compatible with heterodimer TALEN architectures. This enhanced and high‐efficiency TALEN variant represents a novel second‐generation TALEN system and has great potential for biological and therapeutic applications. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2014;111: 683–691. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Scaffold‐free formation of a millimeter‐scale multicellular spheroid with an internal cavity from magnetically levitated 3T3 cells that ingested iron oxide‐containing microspheres
Authors: Lee Joon Ho , Hur Won
Published: November 2013

This report describes fabrication of a millimeter‐scale three‐dimensional (3D) multicellular structure with a central cavity based on magnetic levitation of 3T3 cells that had ingested Fe3O4‐containing microcapsules. Magnetically levitated cells initially formed a disc‐shaped cell cluster at the air‐medium interface and transformed into a spheroid (up to 2.8 mm in diameter) after 10‐day incubation under a magnet. Hematoxylin‐and‐eosin‐stained section revealed that an eosinophilic shell of cells enclosed a pale‐staining core of the spheroid. Mitotic or elongated and aligned cells were found at the outer periphery of the shell, while Fe3O4 deposits were distributed in the inner part of the shell. Surgical dissection indicated that the spheroid had a hollow interior filled with a fluid‐state cell suspension. Accordingly, it was demonstrated that magnetically levitated 3T3 cells organized themselves into a tissue‐like spheroid, resulting in core cell death. The spheroid can be used as a 3D tissue model and as building blocks that fused to form a more complicated structure. Biotechnol. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2014;111: 1038–1047. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Capsule endoscopy as a panenteric diagnostic tool
Authors: Hale M , McAlindon M E
Published: November 2013

The future of luminal diagnosis in the gastrointestinal tract
Variable composition of the internal and external branches of the accessory nerve
Authors: Liu Hong‐Fu , Won Hyung‐Sun , Chung In‐Hyuk , Oh Chang‐Seok , Kim In‐Beom
Published: November 2013

The purpose of this study was to clarify the composition of the internal and external branches (IB and EB) of the accessory nerve. Fifty‐seven half heads of 34 adult cadavers were used. The IB and EB of the accessory nerve were mixed with the cranial root (CR), vagus nerve, and spinal root (SR). The IB was classified into five types and the EB into four types according to their composition. The IB consisted of only CR in 7.0% of the 57 cases, and of the CR and the vagus nerve in 52.6%; the IB did not exist in 12.3%. The EB was only composed of the SR in 19.3% of cases, the SR and CR in 52.6%, and the SR, CR, and the vagus nerve in 21.1%. There were 14 combinations of IB and EB types. The most common combination was the IB with the CR and the vagus nerve, and the EB with the SR and CR (31.6%). The combination of IB and EB comprising CR and SR, respectively, was not observed. The IB and EB are known to consist of the CR and SR of the accessory nerve, respectively. However, this study shows that there are no IB and EB comprising only the CR and SR, respectively, and the branches have various combinations of the CR, SR, and vagus nerve. Clin. Anat. 27:97–101, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Virtual Scrum: A teaching aid to introduce undergraduate software engineering students to scrum
Authors: Rodriguez Guillermo , Soria Álvaro , Campo Marcelo
Published: November 2013

Teaching agile practices is becoming a priority in Software engineering curricula as a result of the increasing use of agile methods (AMs) such as Scrum in the software industry. Limitations in time, scope, and facilities within academic contexts hinder students' hands‐on experience in the use of professional AMs. To enhance students' exposure to Scrum, we have developed Virtual Scrum, an educational virtual world that simulates a Scrum‐based team room through virtual elements such as blackboards, a Web browser, document viewers, charts, and a calendar. A preliminary version of Virtual Scrum was tested with a group of 45 students running a capstone project with and without Virtual Scrum support. Students' feedback showed that Virtual Scrum is a viable and effective tool to implement the different elements in a Scrum team room and to perform activities throughout the Scrum process. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 999: XX–XX, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/cae; DOI 10.1002/cae.21588 © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 23:147–156, 2015; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/cae; DOI 10.1002/cae.21588
Crosstalk between the mesothelium and lymphomatous cells: insight into the mechanisms involved in the progression of body cavity lymphomas
Authors: Lignitto Laura , Mattiolo Adriana , Negri Elena , Persano Luca , Gianesello Lisa , Chieco‐Bianchi Luigi , Calabrò Maria Luisa
Published: November 2013

The peculiar localization of body cavity lymphomas implies a specific contribution of the intracavitary microenvironment to the pathogenesis of these tumors. In this study, primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) was used as a model of body cavity lymphoma to investigate the role of mesothelial cells, which line the serous cavities, in lymphoma progression. The crosstalk between mesothelial and lymphomatous cells was studied in cocultures of primary human mesothelial cells (HMC) with PEL cells and a xenograft mouse model of peritoneal PEL. PEL cells were found to induce type 2 epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in HMC, which converted into a myofibroblastic phenotype characterized by loss of epithelial markers (pan cytokeratin and E‐cadherin), expression of EMT‐associated transcriptional repressors (Snail1, Slug, Zeb1, Sip1), and acquisition of α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA), a mesenchymal protein. A progressive thickening of serosal membranes was observed in vivo, accompanied by loss of cytokeratin staining and appearance of α‐SMA‐expressing cells, confirming that fibrosis occurred during intracavitary PEL development. On the other hand, HMC were found to modulate PEL cell turnover in vitro, increasing their resistance to apoptosis and proliferation. This supportive activity on PEL cells was retained after transdifferentiation, and was impaired by interferon‐α2b treatment. On the whole, our results indicate that PEL cells induce type 2 EMT in HMC, which support PEL cell growth and survival, providing a milieu favorable to lymphoma progression. Our findings provide new clues into the mechanisms involved in lymphoma progression and may indicate new targets for effective treatment of malignant effusions growing in body cavities.
Pillararene‐Based Assemblies: Design Principle, Preparation and Applications
Authors: Zhang Huacheng , Zhao Yanli
Published: November 2013

In this review, we highlight recent advancements on pillararene‐based assemblies. The driving forces for the formation of the pillararene‐based assemblies are discussed first. The host–guest interactions are deemed as not only general strategy for constructing assemblies but also essential components for preventing the assemblies from the dissociation. Solvent effect is also important in the assembling process, since it could influence the host–guest interactions and provide solvophobic effect on pillararenes for the assembly. Then, several pillararene‐based assembly architectures are introduced, including pillararene‐based interlocked structures, such as (poly)pseudorotaxanes, (poly)rotaxanes, and daisy chains, classified by their topological structures and synthetic strategy. The morphologies of the supramolecular assemblies are divided into several types, for example, nanospheres, nanotubes and supramolecular polymers. Furthermore, the functions and potential applications are summarized accompanied with related assembly structures. The review not only provides fundamental findings, but also foresights future research directions in the research area of pillararene‐based assemblies.
Carbon Dynamics on the Molybdenum Carbide Surface during Catalytic Propane Dehydrogenation
Authors: Frank Benjamin , Cotter Thomas P. , Schuster Manfred E. , Schlögl Robert , Trunschke Annette
Published: November 2013

The effect of the gas‐phase chemical potential on surface chemistry and reactivity of molybdenum carbide has been investigated in catalytic reactions of propane in oxidizing and reducing reactant mixtures by adding H2, O2, H2O, and CO2 to a C3H8/N2 feed. The balance between surface oxidation state, phase stability, carbon deposition, and the complex reaction network involving dehydrogenation reactions, hydrogenolysis, metathesis, water‐gas shift reaction, hydrogenation, and steam reforming is discussed. Raman spectroscopy and a surface‐sensitive study by means of in situ X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy evidence that the dynamic formation of surface carbon species under a reducing atmosphere strongly shifts the product spectrum to the C3‐alkene at the expense of hydrogenolysis products. A similar response of selectivity, which is accompanied by a boost of activity, is observed by tuning the oxidation state of Mo in the presence of mild oxidants, such as H2O and CO2, in the feed as well as by V doping. The results obtained allow us to draw a picture of the active catalyst surface and to propose a structure–activity correlation as a map for catalyst optimization.
Epitope Mapping of Monoclonal Antibodies using Synthetic Oligosaccharides Uncovers Novel Aspects of Immune Recognition of the Psl Exopolysaccharide of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Li Huiqing , Mo Kai‐For , Wang Qun , Stover C. Kendall , DiGiandomenico Antonio , Boons Geert‐Jan
Published: November 2013

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic Gram‐negative bacterium that can cause life‐threatening infections in critically ill and cystic fibrosis patients. The Psl exopolysaccharide of P. aeruginosa offers an attractive serotype‐independent antigen for the development of immunotherapies. Here, the first chemical synthesis of a panel of oligosaccharides derived from the exopolysaccharide of P. aeruginosa by a synthetic strategy that efficiently deals with the stereoselective installation of several β‐mannosides and the formation of a mannoside that is extended by saccharide moieties at C‐1, C‐2, and C‐3 in a crowded 1,2,3‐cis configuration is described. The approach was employed to prepare tetra‐, penta‐, and hexa‐ and decasaccharide part structures. The compounds were employed to define the epitope requirements of several functionally active monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that can bind three distinct epitopes of Psl (class I, II, and III). The class II mAb reacted potently with each oligosaccharide indicating its epitope resides within the tetrasaccharide and does not require the branched mannoside of Psl. The class III antibody did not bind the tetra‐ or pentasaccharide; however, it did react potently with the hexasaccharide and weakly with the decasaccharide, suggesting a terminal glucoside is required for optimal binding. Unexpectedly, the class I mAb did not bind any of the oligosaccharides indicating that Psl contains a yet to be elucidated sub‐stoichiometric isoform. This study demonstrates that functional activity of a mAb does not only depend on the avidity of binding but also on the location of an epitope within a bacterial polysaccharide. The results also provide a strong impetus to analyze further the structure of Psl to identify the class I epitope, that is expected to provide an attractive target for the development of a synthetic vaccine for P. aeruginosa.
Natural Occurrence of Enantiomers of Organic Compounds Versus Phytoremediations: Should Research on Phytoremediations Be Revisited? A Mini‐review
Authors: Lojková Lea , Vranová Valerie , Rejšek Klement , Formánek Pavel
Published: November 2013

Decontamination of polluted soils using plants is based on the ability of plant species (including transgenic plants) to enhance bioavailability of pollutants in the rhizosphere and support growth of pollutant‐degrading microorganisms via root exudation and plant species‐specific composition of the exudates. In this work, we review current knowledge of enantiomers of low‐molecular‐weight (LMW) organic compounds with emphasis on their use in phytoremediation. Many research studies have been performed to search for plants suitable for decontamination of polluted soils. Nevertheless, the natural occurrence of L‐ versus D‐enantiomers of dominant compounds of plant root exudates which play different roles in the complexation of heavy metals, chemoattraction, and support of pollutant‐degrading microorganisms were not included in these studies. D‐enantiomers of aliphatic organic acids and amino acids or L‐enantiomers of carbohydrates occur in high concentrations in root exudates of some plant species, especially under stress, and are less stimulatory for plants to extract heavy metals or for rhizosphere microflora to degrade pollutants compared with L‐enantiomers (organic acids and amino acids) or D‐carbohydrates. Determining the ratio of L‐ versus D‐enantiomers of organic compounds as a criterion of plant suitability for decontamination of polluted soils and development of other types of bioremediation technologies need to be subjects of future research. Chirality 26:1–20, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Stereoselective Degradation of Chiral Fungicide Myclobutanil in Rat Liver Microsomes
Authors: Yan Jin , Zhang Ping , Wang Xinru , Wang Yao , Zhou Zhiqiang , Zhu Wentao
Published: November 2013

Myclobutanil, (RS)‐2‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐2‐(1H‐1, 2, 4‐triazol‐1‐ylmethyl)hexanenitrile is a broad‐spectrum systemic triazole fungicide which consists of a pair of enantiomers. The stereoselective degradation of myclobutanil was investigated in rat liver microsomes. The concentrations of myclobutanil enantiomers were determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a cellulose‐tris‐(3,5‐dimethyl‐phenylcarbamate)‐based chiral stationary phase (CDMPC‐CSP) under reversed phase condition. The t1/2 of (+)‐myclobutanil is 8.49 min, while the t1/2 of (–)‐myclobutanil is 96.27 min. Such consequences clearly indicated that the degradation of myclobutanil in rat liver microsomes was stereoselective and the degradation rate of (+)‐myclobutanil was much faster than (–)‐myclobutanil. In addition, significant differences between two enantiomers were also observed in enzyme kinetic parameters. The Vmax of (+)‐myclobutanil was about 4‐fold of (–)‐myclobutanil and the CLint of (+)‐myclobutanil was three times as much as (–)‐myclobutanil after incubation in rat liver microsomes. Corresponding consequences may shed light on the environmental and ecological risk assessment for myclobutanil and may improve human health. Chirality 26:51–55, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Significant involvement of herpesvirus entry mediator in human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Migita Kazuhiro , Sho Masayuki , Shimada Keiji , Yasuda Satoshi , Yamato Ichiro , Takayama Tomoyoshi , Matsumoto Sohei , Wakatsuki Kohei , Hotta Kiyohiko , Tanaka Tetsuya , Ito Masahiro , Konishi Noboru , Nakajima Yoshiyuki
Published: November 2013

BACKGROUND

Herpesvirus entry mediator (HVEM) is known to regulate immune response and to be expressed in several human malignancies. However, to the authors's knowledge, the precise role of HVEM in human cancer biology remains unknown. The objective of the current study was to clarify the clinical significance of HVEM in human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma as well as its in vivo functions.

METHODS

HVEM expression was evaluated in 103 patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma to explore its clinical relevance and prognostic value. The functions of HVEM in tumors were analyzed in vitro and in vivo using the small interfering RNA (siRNA) silencing technique.

RESULTS

HVEM expression was found to be significantly correlated with depth of tumor invasion and lymph node metastasis. Furthermore, it was found to be inversely correlated with tumor‐infiltrating CD4+, CD8+, and CD45RO+ lymphocytes. It is important to note that HVEM status was identified as an independent prognostic marker. HVEM gene silencing significantly inhibited cancer cell proliferation in vitro and cancer growth in vivo. This antitumor effect was associated with reduced cell proliferation activity. The effect was also correlated with the induction of CD8+ cells and upregulation of local immune response.

CONCLUSIONS

HVEM plays a critical role in both tumor progression and the evasion of host antitumor immune responses, possibly through direct and indirect mechanisms. Therefore, HVEM may be a promising therapeutic target for human esophageal cancer. Cancer 2014;120:808–817. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
A simple surfactant‐free route for preparation of flower‐like crystals of CoS with hierarchitectures
Authors: Qi Kezhen , Yu Ji , Chen Ke
Published: November 2013

Hierarchical cobalt sulfide crystals with flower‐like microstructures were successfully prepared by a simple one‐pot solvothermal route, employing CoCl2·6H2O as a cobalt precursor and KSCN as a sulfur source. The morphology of these microstructures can be easily controlled by adjusting the molar ratio of glycol to DMF in the solvent. The products were characterized by XRD and SEM. Possible formation mechanisms of CoS hierarchical microspheres are proposed. The influences of the nature of reaction media on the morphological evolution were also investigated and it was found that the ratio of DMF to glycol was of great importance for the formation of CoS morphology.
Using a knowledge transfer framework to identify factors facilitating implementation of family‐based treatment
Authors: Couturier Jennifer , Kimber Melissa , Jack Susan , Niccols Alison , Van Blyderveen Sherry , McVey Gail
Published: November 2013

Objective

To conduct a qualitative study to identify factors that would facilitate the transfer of the research evidence on Family‐Based Treatment (FBT) into clinical practice.

Method

Fundamental qualitative description guided sampling, data collection, and analytic decisions for this study. Forty therapists who treat children and adolescents under the age of 18 with Anorexia Nervosa (AN) and belong to Ontario's provincial network of specialized eating disorder services completed an in‐depth interview focusing on elements proposed by the Lavis knowledge transfer framework. An experienced coder conducted content analysis, with 20% of the interviews double‐coded for reliability purposes.

Results

Participants requested training in the FBT model, including the provision of research evidence (i.e., journal articles), as well as the specific tenets of the model according to the FBT manual. The suggested audience for implementation included not only therapists themselves, but administrators, physicians, and community members. The development of best practice guidelines was also supported. Local FBT experts were suggested as credible messengers. Infrastructure relating to financial support and time away from clinical duties were reported to be essential for training. Ongoing supervision and mentorship were reported to be important elements of implementation and evaluation processes.

Discussion

Suggestions for moving FBT into practice were consistent with previous research, however, the importance of obtaining the evidence in the form of primary research articles and obtaining team buy‐in were remarkable. Developing context‐specific training programs and administrative processes for the implementation of FBT are warranted. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2014; 47:410–417)
T‐bet is a new synergistic meeting point for the BCR and TLR9 signaling cascades
Authors: Kövesdi Dorottya , Angyal Adrienn , Huber Krisztina , Szili Dániel , Sármay Gabriella
Published: November 2013

The importance of the BCR and TLR9 in autoimmunity and in the production of auto‐antibodies is well established but the underlying molecular mechanism still needs to be determined. Here, we aim to characterize the BCR‐TLR9 cross‐talk by its effect on T‐bet, as T‐bet is activated and regulated by both receptors and has an important role in class‐switching to pathological IgG2a in mice. Using primary mouse B cells, we demonstrate that T‐bet expression is synergistically elevated by the cross‐talk between the BCR and TLR9. To test the effect of this synergy on IgG2a‐switching, the levels of switched B cells were checked by functional tests. We found that BCR costimulation had no additional effect on TLR9‐induced IgG2a expression, however the expression of Rad51 was synergistically increased. To check the biological significance of the synergy, we compared T‐bet expression in B cells from healthy and collagen‐induced arthritis mice but no differences were found. Taken together, we demonstrate here that signaling cascades driven by the BCR and TLR9 have a newly identified meeting point at T‐bet. The two cascades act synergistically on T‐bet; however additional signals may be needed to induce prolonged functional responses such as class‐switch recombination.