bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Silica‐based matrices: State of the art and new perspectives for therapeutic drug delivery
Authors: Andreani Tatiana , Silva Amélia M. , Souto Eliana B.
Published: December 2014

Colloidal carriers based on silica (Si) matrices are an innovative approach within the context of therapeutic drug delivery systems. These carriers are emerging as a great promise for diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of injuries, particularly in cancer and infectious diseases. In addition, bioencapsulation for biosensing and cell therapy in silica sol–gel allows the survival of enzymes and cells for a long period of time. Owing to their porosity, large surface area, and high capability of functionalization, silica nanoparticles (SiNP) have been considered as an attractive option for several bioanalysis applications, such as selective bioseparation, imaging, and drug and gene delivery. However, although great advances are achieved in the biomedical fields, some toxicity effects can be associated with the use of SiNP. This article aims to present a comprehensive review of recent technological advances for silica matrices in biomedical applications, as well as the potential impact of silica‐based materials on human health and environment.
Adiponectin attenuates Ang Ⅱ‐induced TGFβ1 production in human mesangial cells via an AMPK‐dependent pathway
Authors: Tan Min , Tang Gongyao , Rui Hongliang
Published: December 2014

Glomerulosclerosis is a key element in end‐stage renal failure. Angiotensin II (Ang II) plays an important role in modulating cell growth and extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis and degradation. Adiponectin, a protein derived from adipocytes, is primarily involved in regulating glucose levels and fatty acid break down. It has recently been shown to have antiatherosclerotic and anti‐inflammatory properties. However, the role of adiponectin as a renoprotective agent has not been fully explored. We herein examine the effect of adiponectin on Ang II‐induced TGFβ1 and ECM production in human renal mesangial cells (HRMCs) and explore the signaling pathway involved. In this study, we found that both adiponectin receptor 1 and adiponectin receptor 2 are expressed in HRMCs. Adiponectin (10 μg/mL) attenuated the stimulatory effect of Ang II on TGF‐β1 and fibronectin. Furthermore, adiponectin activated the AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK), and the AMPK‐specific inhibitor (compound C) blocked AMPK activation. We also determined that compound C blocked the inhibitory effect of adiponectin on Ang II‐stimulated TGFβ1 and fibronectin production. In summary, these results demonstrate that adiponectin suppresses Ang II‐induced synthesis of ECM in mesangial cells via activation of the AMPK pathway. Based on our data, we suggest that this mechanism could delay the progression of kidney disease.
Analysis of the role of O‐glycosylation in GH51 α‐l‐arabinofuranosidase from Pleurotus ostreatus
Authors: Amore Antonella , Serpico Annabel , Amoresano Angela , Vinciguerra Roberto , Faraco Vincenza
Published: December 2014

In this study, the recombinant α‐l‐arabinofuranosidase from the fungus Pleurotus ostreatus (rPoAbf) was subjected to site‐directed mutagenesis with the aim of elucidating the role of glycosylation on the properties of the enzyme at the level of S160 residue. As a matter of fact, previous mass spectral analyses had led to the localization of a single O‐glycosylation at this site. Recombinant expression and characterization of the rPoAbf mutant S160G was therefore performed. It was shown that the catalytic properties are slightly changed by the mutation, with a more evident modification of the Kcat and KM toward the synthetic substrate pN‐glucopyranoside. More importantly, the mutation negatively affected the stability of the enzyme at various pHs and temperatures. Circular dichroism (CD) analyses showed a minimum at 210 nm for wild‐type (wt) rPoAbf, typical of the beta‐sheets structure, whereas this minimum is shifted for rPoAbf S160G, suggesting the presence of an unfolded structure. A similar behavior was revealed when wt rPoAbf was enzymatically deglycosylated. CD structural analyses of both the site‐directed mutant and the enzymatically deglycosylated wild‐type enzyme indicate a role of the glycosylation at the S160 residue in rPoAbf secondary structure stability.
RETRACTION: Knockdown of GPR137 by RNAi inhibits pancreatic cancer cell growth and induces apoptosis
Authors: Cui Xianping , Liu Yanguo , Wang Bo , Xian Guozhe , Liu Xin , Tian Xingsong , Qin Chengkun
Published: December 2014

RETRACTION: G‐protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs), the largest family of cell‐surface molecules involved in a number of biological and pathological processes, have recently emerged as key players in carcinogenesis and cancer progression. Orphan G protein‐coupled receptors (oGPCRs) are a group of proteins lacking endogenous ligands. GPR137, one of the novel oGPCR genes, was discovered by homology screening. However, the biological role of GPR137 in cancers has not yet been discussed and is of great therapeutic interest. In this study, we knocked down GPR137 via a lentivirus system in two human pancreatic cancer cell lines BXPC‐3 and PANC‐1. Knockdown of GPR137 strongly inhibited cell proliferation and colony formation. Flow cytometry showed that cell cycle was arrested in the sub‐G1 phase and apoptotic cells were significantly increased after GPR137 knockdown. Western blotting confirmed that GPR137 silencing induced apoptosis due to cleavage of PARP (poly ADP‐ribose polymerase) and upregulation of caspase 3. Furthermore, lentivirus‐mediated overexpression of GPR137 promoted the proliferation of PANC‐1 cells, suggesting GPR137 as a potential oncogene in pancreatic cancer cells. Taken together, our results prove the importance of GPR137 as a crucial regulator in controlling cancer cell growth and apoptosis.
Determination of oligomeric states of peptide complexes using thermal unfolding curves
Authors: Rabe Martin , Boyle Aimee , Zope Harshal R. , Versluis Frank , Kros Alexander
Published: December 2014

In their native form peptides are often found as oligomeric complexes, meaning they consist of more than one peptide chain. Coiled coils and helical bundles are common examples of such complexes. Their oligomeric state needs to be known precisely as this tremendously influences their biochemical and biophysical properties. The extensive analysis of circular dichroism spectroscopic data is commonly used to investigate the thermodynamics of binding and folding of these complexes. Here we present FitDis! an easy‐to‐use programme, which fits the most common two‐state unfolding transition to the measured thermal unfolding curves of any oligomer of any stoichiometry. We demonstrate, with simulated and real examples, that the comparison of different stoichiometric models fitted to the same dataset reveals the oligomeric states of these complexes along with detailed thermodynamic information. This method will significantly ease the analysis of and increase the amount of information gained from, the thermal unfolding curves of peptide complexes. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 104: 65–72, 2015.
The Claisen Rearrangement – Part 2: Impact Factor Analysis of the Claisen Rearrangement, in Batch and in Flow
Authors: Hessel Volker , Shahbazali Elnaz , Noël Timothy , Zelentsov Sergei
Published: December 2014

In Part 2, the factors impacting the Claisen rearrangement both in batch and flow processing are analyzed, including the choice of substituent, catalyst, temperature, pressure, concentration, flow rates, and solvent. Part 1 of this review series discussed the potential of using short‐time spectroscopy and quantum mechanical calculations to elucidate the mechanism and transition state of the Claisen rearrangement. Flow processing offers profound opportunities for studying these factors known to impact the Claisen rearrangement done in batch. It is shown that the same impact factors also rule flow processing, yet now superposed by the very different residence and reaction time settings and by novel process windows which go beyond conventional processing. As a result, massive intensification can be reached and a mechanistic analysis can be done in entirely unpaved processing fields. This links to the analysis given in part 1: it is likely that flow processing can further promote the understanding of the mechanism and transition state of the Claisen rearrangement and, thereby, promote the achievement of better reaction performance.
Snapshot in surgery: intraperitoneal encapsulated fat necrosis
Authors: Oh Han Boon , Arab Nahlah , Teo Lynette , Lieske Bettina
Published: December 2014

Key Clinical Message

A 66‐year‐old man with rectal cancer was found to have an incidental ring‐like lesion in the left rectovesical pouch. Histology revealed an encapsulated fat necrosis. Intraperitoneal encapsulated fat necroses are postulated to be a result of infarcted epiploic appendages resulting in a free‐floating lesion.
Disseminated histoplasmosis associated with acquired hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Rajput Ashish , Bence‐Bruckler Isabelle , Huebsch Lothar , Jessamine Peter , Toye Baldwin , Padmore Ruth
Published: December 2014

Key Clinical Message

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a potentially life‐threatening clinical syndrome caused by uncontrolled activation of lymphocytes and histiocytes resulting in high levels of cytokines. Acquired HLH occurs in autoimmune, inflammatory, infectious, and immunosuppressive disorders. Prompt identification and treatment of an underlying triggering cause improves clinical outcome.
Goodpasture's disease following extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy: a case report & literature review
Authors: Cranfield Alistair , Mathavakkannan Suresh
Published: December 2014

Key Clinical Message

Shock wave lithotripsy may unmask epitopes within the glomerular basement membrane, leading to the formation of anti‐glomerular basement membrane (GBM) antibodies and clinical disease in susceptible individuals. Although rare, our case highlights the need for vigilant monitoring of renal function following extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy. This may allow for early recognition, treatment and improved outcome of anti‐GBM disease.
Improved performance of a passive air breathing flat‐plate microbial fuel cell
Authors: Kazemi Sona , Fatih Khalid , Mohseni Madjid
Published: December 2014

This study aims to investigate the effect of the graphite felt (GF) substrate surface treatment, the GF active surface area, and the anode chamber depth on the performance of the passive air breathing flat‐plate microbial fuel cell (FPMFC) configuration. Three passive air breathing FPMFCs (depth of anode chamber: 2 mm, 4 mm, and 8 mm) were developed and operated using 1, 2, and 3 packed layers of three‐dimensional (3D) graphite felt anodes, respectively, with similar cross sectional (geometric) surface area as the cathode and the membrane. The surface of the GF substrate was treated by soaking in a hot solution of nitric acid prior to inoculation. The 2 mm FPMFC generated a peak power density superior to that previously reported for the same configuration with no GF treatment. The peak power density in the 8 mm and 4 mm FPMFCs with 3 and 2 layers of GF increased by 118 % and 48 %, respectively, compared to the 2 mm FPMFC with 1 layer of GF. By using only 1 layer of GF, the peak power density showed no significant variation with the electrode spacing.
Variables affecting specific energy requirements for repulping
Authors: Saville Frank , Martinez Mark , Olson James
Published: December 2014

A 0.25 m3 laboratory repulper was built for the purpose of determining which variables (pulp type, rotor tip speed, pulp suspension temperature, rotor design, rotor to extraction plate clearance, power to vat volume ratio, and pulp suspension consistency) affect the specific energy (kW‐h/ton) required for repulping. Scale replicas of 3 commercial repulper rotors were constructed to test the effect of rotor geometry on repulping specific energy. The pulp types used included kraft aspen, C‐flute corrugated cardboard, office printing paper, and unbleached paper towel. The energy required for repulping was found to vary with pulp type, temperature, consistency, and rotor design. It was found that a given material at a given temperature and consistency requires a unique quantity of energy to be repulped independent of the rate of energy addition. It was also found that repulper rotors show Reynolds independence at rotor tip speeds greater than 12m/s. It was found that the specific energy consumption in a 0.25 m3 laboratory repulper was identical to that for a 15 m3 repulper given the comparison was made with identical pulp types, temperatures, consistencies, and rotor designs.
Geophysical Interpretation and Formation Mechanism of the Yandang Low Uplift in the East China Sea Shelf Basin
Authors: Chuan‐Sheng YANG , Gang LI , Xi‐Wu LUAN , Chang‐Qing YANG , Jian‐Ming GONG , Yan‐Qiu YANG , Yan‐Hui SUO
Published: December 2014

The Yandang Low Uplift is a significant tectonic unit of the East China Sea Shelf Basin, which has previously received little attention. Based on the geophysical interpretation of seismic, gravity and magnetic data, Mesozoic distributions and basin structures are studied in this work to reveal formation mechanism of the Yandang Low Uplift. Our results show that the Yandang Low Uplift is characterized by a series of circular gravity highs which trend NE in free air gravity anomaly map and residual gravity anomaly map, but magnetic lows of about −60∼–160 nT in △T magnetic anomaly map, including some magnetic highs caused by magma intrusion. The uplift lies between the Oujiang Sag and the Minjiang Sag along a discontinuous NE‐trending axis, about 170 km long and 15∼50 km wide. Jurassic and Cretaceous strata are widely distributed on the uplift, with a thickness of about 500∼1500 m, and cover a total area of about 5000 km2 with some local absence. The Oujiang Sag distinctly differs from the Minjiang Sag in the structure of Mesozoic basin. The former is a typical faulted basin bordered by En‐echelon faults to the east, where Mesozoic half‐grabens and tilted fault blocks are well developed. However, the latter is a down‐warped basin with few faults and igneous rocks, where Mesozoic compressional anticlines, faulted anticlines and inverted structures are well developed. Above all, this study deduces that the Yandang Low Uplift is a palaeo‐uplift comprised of Proterozoic strata and distinct from the Taipei Low Uplift. Furthermore, the Yandang Low Uplift and the Zhe‐Min Uplift might be joined in a single entity in Jurassic, and divided into two parts in late Cretaceous.
Seismic Activities and Earthquake Potential in the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Qi‐Dong DENG , Shao‐Ping CHENG , Ji MA , Peng DU
Published: December 2014

The Tibetan Plateau is a region with intensive tectonic deformation and high level earthquake activity. On the basis of historical records, there have been 18 earthquakes with magnitude over 8 and more than 100 events with magnitude between 7 and 7.9 in the plateau. All of these events occured either along plate boundary of the Himalaya or along boundaries among the intra‐plate fault blocks as well as sub‐blocks. There have been three phases of earthquake clustering in the Tibetan Plateau, 1920 to 1937, 1947 to 1976, and 1995 to present, since instrumental seismic records began in 1900. Each phase of the cluster is characterized by events of magnitude over 8 and a number of events of magnitude over 7 to form an earthquake series. The three phases are the Haiyuan‐Gulang earthquake series in 1920s to 1930s, the Zayu‐Damxung earthquake series in 1950s to 1970s, and the Kunlun‐Wenchuan series since the beginning of this century. Each earthquake series also has its major active region of occurrences. For example, the major active region of occurrence is associated with the newest phase of earthquake series is the Bayan Har fault block. The episodes of seismic activity in the Tibetan Plateau coincide with the high level activities of global mega‐earthquake (Mw ≥ 8) activity. The Kunlun‐Wenchuan earthquake series concurs with the global earthquake activity since 2001 suggesting geodynamic connections between them. Based on careful comparative studies, we suggest the current phase of earthquake activity continues today, giving that the global mega‐earthquakes (Mw8∼9) occur frequently along plate boundaries and major intra‐plate earthquakes (Mw7∼8) occur along boundaries of crustal fault block. Through studies of relationships between global and regional earthquake activities and of temporal and spatial distribution of the earthquakes in the Tibetan Plateau, this paper summarized general tendencies of current earthquake activity, assesses recent earthquake potential, and proposes suggestions for intensive earthquake monitoring.
One‐Way Wave Equation Least‐Squares Migration Based on Illumination Compensation
Authors: Hua‐Min ZHOU , Sheng‐Chang CHEN , Hao‐Ran REN , Han‐Chuang WANG , Guo‐Xin CHEN
Published: December 2014

Least‐squares migration is a linear seismic inversion method which is established based on the linear relationship between seismic reflection data and underground reflection. Compared with conventional imaging technique, it has better performance in preserving amplitude. This paper presents an one‐way wave equation least‐squares migration based on illumination compensation. Firstly, we use the stable Born approximation generalized screen one‐way wave‐field propagator to construct the linear operator between reflected seismic data and underground reflection. Then we use the linear optimization method to solve the linear inverse problem of the least‐squares migration. In the process of solving the optimization problems iteratively, we employ the seismic wave illumination as a preconditioned operator of the iterative inversion, so as to accelerate the convergence of iteration. During the one‐way wave propagation, we consider the transmission effect arising from velocity interface, and substitute monopole source for the dipole source in conventional migration. Applying the method proposed in this paper to the layered theory model and the Marmosi model achieved ideal results.
Effects of Direct Double Auger Decay on the Population Dynamics of Neon Irradiated by Ultraintense x‐ray Pulses
Authors: Gao C. , Zeng J. , Yuan J.
Published: December 2014

The population and charge state distribution of neon interacting with ultraintense x‐ray pulses are investigated by solving a time‐dependent rate equation in the detailed level‐accounting (DLA) approximation. Due to the detailed description of neon atom and ions, our DLA result improves the agreement between predictions and experimental measurements for odd neon charge states. In the framework of the DLA formalism, we further studied the effects of direct double Auger decay (DDAD) on charge state distribution. After the 1s photoionization of neon atom, the DDAD processes give accessible decay channels from the K‐shell hole state of Ne+ to levels of Ne3+, resulting in an increase of the population fraction of Ne3+ and a decrease of that of Ne2+. Compared with the results without considering the DDAD effects, better agreement is obtained between theory and experiment. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Towards ab Initio Thermodynamics of the Electron Gas at Strong Degeneracy
Authors: Schoof T. , Groth S. , Bonitz M.
Published: December 2014

Recently a number of theoretical studies of the uniform electron gas (UEG) at finite temperature have appeared that are of relevance for dense plasmas, warm dense matter and laser excited solids and thermodynamic density functional theory simulations. In particular, restricted path integral Monte Carlo (RPIMC) results became available which, however, due to the Fermion sign problem, are confined to moderate quantum degeneracy, i.e. low to moderate densities. We have recently developed an alternative approach–configuration PIMC [T. Schoof et al., Contrib. Plasma Phys. 51, 687 (2011)] that allows one to study the so far not accessible high degeneracy regime. Here we present the first step towards UEG simulations using CPIMC by studying implementation and performance of the method for the model case of N = 4 particles. We also provide benchmark data for the total energy. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Hierarchy of Fluctuation‐Dissipation Theorems for the Classical One‐Component Plasma
Authors: Golden K. I. , Heath J. T.
Published: December 2014

We have derived tractable cubic (p = 3) and quartic (p = 4) fluctuation‐dissipation theorems (FDTs) for the classical one‐component plasma in a form that links a single (p + 1)‐point dynamical structure function to a linear combination of p th‐order density response functions amenable to calculation from model plasma kinetic equations. For p ≥ 3, we note the emergence of “remainder” contributions comprised of clusters of lower‐order dynamical structure functions which can be ultimately traded for response functions vis‐á‐vis the linear and quadratic FDTs. Our analysis provides insight into the structure of the FDT hierarchy. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A tribute to pioneers of strongly coupled plasmas: Hugh E. DeWitt, Bernard Jancovici, and Forrest J. Rogers
Authors: Whitley H. D. , Alastuey A. , Gaffney J.A. , Cauble R. , Kraeft W.D. , Bonitz M.
Published: December 2014

The field of strongly coupled Coulomb systems that stretches from dense plasma, to astrophysics, condensed matter and high energy physics has seen a dramatic development over the last four decades. At the beginning of this process were a few physicists whose work has had a high impact on many exciting developments of the recent years. Among them are Hugh E. DeWitt, Bernard Jancovici and Forrest J. Rogers who passed away in 2013–2014. Their important contributions to the field of strongly coupled Coulomb systems are summarized in this article. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
B‐cell inhibition by cross‐linking CD79b is superior to B‐cell depletion with anti‐CD20 antibodies in treating murine collagen‐induced arthritis
Authors: Brühl Hilke , Cihak Josef , Talke Yvonne , Gomez Manuel Rodriguez , Hermann Fabian , Goebel Nicole , Renner Kerstin , Plachý Jiří , Stangassinger Manfred , Aschermann Susanne , Nimmerjahn Falk , Mack Matthias
Published: December 2014

Depletion of B cells with the anti‐CD20 antibody rituximab is an established therapy for rheumatoid arthritis. However, rituximab has only moderate efficacy, most likely due to insufficient depletion of B cells in lymphoid organs and expansion of pathogenic B cells. We found that an antibody against mouse CD79b profoundly blocks B‐cell proliferation induced via the B‐cell receptor, CD40, CD180, and chondroitin sulfate, but not via TLR4 or TLR9. Treatment with anti‐CD79b also induces death in resting and activated B cells. B‐cell inhibition is mediated by cross‐linkage of CD79b, but independent of Fc‐receptor engagement. In the model of collagen‐induced arthritis, an antibody against mouse CD20 depletes B cells very efficiently but fails to suppress the humoral immune response against collagen and the development of arthritis. In contrast, the antibody against CD79b, and a deglycosylated variant of this antibody, almost completely inhibits the increase in anti‐collagen antibodies and the development of arthritis. In mice with established arthritis only the fully glycosylated antibody against CD79b is effective. Our data show that targeting B cells via CD79b is much more effective than B‐cell depletion with anti‐CD20 antibodies for therapy of arthritis. These findings may have important implications for treatment of B‐cell–mediated autoimmune diseases.
ZnCl2‐Promoted One‐Pot Three‐Component Synthesis of Multisubstituted Thiazolo[4,5‐b]pyridines and Thieno[2,3‐b:4,5‐b′]dipyridines
Authors: Luo Laichun , Meng Lanlan , Peng Yangqiu , Xing Yongning , Sun Qi , Ge Zemei , Li Runtao
Published: December 2014

A ZnCl2‐promoted one‐pot synthesis of multisubstituted thiazolo[4,5‐b]pyridines and thieno[2,3‐b:4,5‐b′]dipyridines from mercaptonitrile salts, α‐bromo ketones and ketones has been developed. This approach involves a tandem SN2 alkylation/Thorpe–Ziegler cyclization/Friedländer reaction, which allows the creation of two hetero rings and four new bonds in a single operation. The reaction proceeds smoothly under solvent‐free conditions to afford fused pyridines in moderate to good yields.
A vehicular network for social services using data dissemination
Authors: Esmaeilyfard Rasool , Khiadani Nadia H. , Hendessi Faramarz , Safavi Hemami Sayed Mostafa
Published: December 2014

Roads, streets and the heavy traffic emerged in metropolises are places where people spend a considerable amount of time. These are locations where lack of presence of the social‐inspired networks and services and also the presence of new opportunities that could be offered to the people are clearly evident. Undoubtedly, the absence of a proper infrastructure is one of the major barriers to create and deliver social application for vehicular scenarios. In this study, we focus on the idea of establishing a dynamic vehicular network to manage the social groups and the information of social applications. In order to achieve this goal, this paper presents a three‐layered network architecture with a middleware at its core. The middleware manages social groups and handles pivotal functions of information management and dissemination. The design principles and patterns used enable our strategy to disseminate the information quickly and extensively using different communication schemes. Through this approach, we evaluate this infrastructure based on groups with common spatio‐temporal properties and analysing the constant speed mobility in our data dissemination scheme. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Design Strategies for Idle Screens of Smartphones Based on Service Usages
Authors: Lee Sangwon , Kim Min‐Jeong , Park Jonghun , Shin Dongmin
Published: December 2014

Linking specific smartphone services to user characteristics can inform design guidelines and improve the competitive edge of smartphone models. A key component in the design of the user interface is the idle screen, as it is the starting point for all smartphone services. The focus of this study is to elicit insights for establishing strategies for improving idle screen design by relating user behaviors and smartphone services. Benefit segmentation is employed for users’ responses to questionnaire items about service usages. Smartphone services are identified through a factor analysis and user segments are obtained by a cluster analysis. The findings can contribute to classifying smartphone services according to users’ behaviors and preferences for them and to suggesting a design alternative for idle screens, depending on the features of user groups for improved market segmentation.
Safety profile of combined therapy inhibiting EFGR and VEGF pathways in patients with advanced non‐small‐cell lung cancer: A meta‐analysis of 15 phase II/III randomized trials
Authors: Ma Wang , Xu Mingxin , Liu Yiqian , Liu Hao , Huang Jiale , Zhu Yanjie , Ji Li‐juan , Qi Xiaolong
Published: December 2014

The efficacy of combined vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibition in patients with advanced non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) was well studied. However, few studies focused on the risk and adverse events (AEs) of combined targeted therapy. The aim of this meta‐analysis was to evaluate the safety profile of combined targeted therapy against EFGR and VEGF in patients with advanced NSCLC. A comprehensive literature search in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), ASCO Abstracts and ESMO Abstracts was conducted. Eligible studies were randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that compared safety profile of combined therapy inhibiting EFGR and VEGF pathways with control groups (placebo, single EGFR or VEGF inhibition therapy, chemotherapy or a combination of them) in patients with advanced NSCLC. The endpoints included treatment discontinuation, treatment‐related deaths and AEs. The search identified 15 RCTs involving 6,919 patients. The outcomes showed that three of four pairwise comparisons detected more discontinuation due to AEs in combined targeted therapy, with odds ratio (OR) compared with the control groups ranged from 1.97 to 2.29. Treatment with combined inhibition therapy was associated with several all‐grade and grade 3 or 4 AEs (e.g. rash, diarrhea and hypertension). Also, there was a significantly higher incidence of treatment‐related deaths in combined inhibition using vandetanib versus single EGFR inhibition therapy (OR = 1.97, 95% CI 1.19–3.28). In conclusion, combined inhibition therapy against EGFR and VEGF in patients with advanced NSCLC was associated with increased toxicity. Increased AEs hinder patient compliance and reduce their quality of life, leading to dose reduction or discontinuation.
The relationship of antioxidant components and antioxidant activity of sesame seed oil
Authors: Wan Yin , Li Huixiao , Fu Guiming , Chen Xueyang , Chen Feng , Xie Mingyong
Published: December 2014

Although sesame seed oil contains high levels of unsaturated fatty acids and even a small amount of free fatty acids in its unrefined flavored form, it shows markedly greater stability than other dietary vegetable oils. The good stability of sesame seed oil against autoxidation has been ascribed not only to its inherent lignans and tocopherols but also to browning reaction products generated when sesame seeds are roasted. Also, there is a strong synergistic effect among these components. The lignans in sesame seed oil can be categorized into two types, i.e. inherent lignans (sesamin, sesamolin) and lignans mainly formed during the oil production process (sesamol, sesamolinol, etc.). The most abundant tocopherol in sesame seed oil is γ‐tocopherol. This article reviews the antioxidant activities of lignans and tocopherols as well as the browning reaction and its products in sesame seed and/or its oil. It is concluded that the composition and structure of browning reaction products and their impacts on sesame ingredients need to be further studied to better explain the remaining mysteries of sesame oil. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Detection of BRCA1 and BRCA2 germline mutations in Japanese population using next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Hirotsu Yosuke , Nakagomi Hiroshi , Sakamoto Ikuko , Amemiya Kenji , Mochizuki Hitoshi , Omata Masao
Published: December 2014

Tumor suppressor genes BRCA1 and BRCA2 are the two main breast and ovarian cancer susceptibility genes, and their genetic testing has been used to evaluate the risk of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC). While several studies have reported the prevalence of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations in Japanese populations, there is insufficient information about deleterious mutations compared with western countries. Moreover, because many rare variants are found in BRCA1 and BRCA2, both of which encode large proteins, it is difficult to sequence all coding regions using the Sanger method for mutation detection. In this study, therefore, we performed next‐generation sequencing (NGS) analysis of the entire coding regions of BRCA1 and BRCA2 in 135 breast and/or ovarian cancer patients. Deleterious BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations were detected in 10 patients (7.4%) by NGS analysis. Of these, one mutation in BRCA1 and two in BRCA2 had not been reported previously. Furthermore, a BRCA2 mutation found in a proband was also identified in two unaffected relatives. These data suggest the utility of screening BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations by NGS in clinical diagnosis.
Tubulization with chitosan guides for the repair of long gap peripheral nerve injury in the rat
Authors: Gonzalez‐Perez F. , Cobianchi S. , Geuna S. , Barwig C. , Freier T. , Udina E. , Navarro X.
Published: December 2014

Biosynthetic guides can be an alternative to nerve grafts for reconstructing severely injured peripheral nerves. The aim of this study was to evaluate the regenerative capability of chitosan tubes to bridge critical nerve gaps (15 mm long) in the rat sciatic nerve compared with silicone (SIL) tubes and nerve autografts (AGs). A total of 28 Wistar Hannover rats were randomly distributed into four groups (n = 7 each), in which the nerve was repaired by SIL tube, chitosan guides of low (∼2%, DAI) and medium (∼5%, DAII) degree of acetylation, and AG. Electrophysiological and algesimetry tests were performed serially along 4 months follow‐up, and histomorphometric analysis was performed at the end of the study. Both groups with chitosan tubes showed similar degree of functional recovery, and similar number of myelinated nerve fibers at mid tube after 4 months of implantation. The results with chitosan tubes were significantly better compared to SIL tubes (P < 0.01), but lower than with AG (P < 0.01). In contrast to AG, in which all the rats had effective regeneration and target reinnervation, chitosan tubes from DAI and DAII achieved 43 and 57% success, respectively, whereas regeneration failed in all the animals repaired with SIL tubes. This study suggests that chitosan guides are promising conduits to construct artificial nerve grafts. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 35:300–308, 2015.
Reconstruction of a full‐thickness, complex nasal defect that includes the nasal septum using a free, thin superficial inferior epigastric artery flap
Authors: Iida Takuya , Yoshimatsu Hidehiko , Tashiro Kensuke , Hara Hisako , Yamamoto Takumi , Narushima Mitsunaga , Koshima Isao
Published: December 2014

Complex nasal defects present a surgical challenge, particularly in cases with a full‐thickness defect that extends into the nasal septum. Although the superficial inferior epigastric artery (SIEA) flap has been widely used as a bulky flap for soft tissue augmentation, reports on its use as a thin flap are limited. We present a case of complex nasal defect reconstruction using a free, thin SIEA flap. A 65‐year‐old man with a recurrent malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor around the left nose and cheek underwent wide tumor resection, leaving a full‐thickness nasal defect that included portions of the nasal septum, nasal bone, and maxilla. A free, thin SIEA flap was elevated and primarily thinned by microdissecting the pedicle distally. The flap was then folded and inset to close the nasal septum and skin. The flap survived completely and complete closure of the nasal septum was observed. As the SIEA runs toward superficial layers as it is traced distally, primary thinning of the flap is possible. We believe that this method may represent an alternative to the superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flap in cases in which the superficial circumflex iliac artery system is hypoplastic. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 36:66–69, 2016.
Synthesis and characterization of Fe3O4/poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide) composite and its coating effects on magnesium alloy
Authors: Xie Yunchuan , Yao Lan , Zhang Zhicheng , Lv AnLin , Shi Xuetao
Published: December 2014

The Fe3O4/poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide) (PLGA) composites were prepared via a surface grafting technique. Initially, the poly(lactic acid) oligomer was synthesized and surface‐grafted to Fe3O4 nanoparticles. Then, the grafted Fe3O4 particles were compounded with PLGA matrix by a simple solution blending method. The grafted Fe3O4 particles presented enhanced compatibility with PLGA matrix and the composites indicated enhanced dynamic mechanical performance. Electrochemical tests showed that the Fe3O4/PLGA composite coating can help improve the impedance of magnesium samples by 100–300%, and the impedance of the metal may be tunable by altering the components ratio of LA/GA within PLGA matrix. The composites may have potential application for magnesium alloy used in degradable medical implants. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:1369–1374, 2016. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
A facile method for reinforcing poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)‐hectorite clay nanocomposite hydrogels by heat treatment
Authors: Lian Cuixia , Yang Yiqing , Wang Tao , Sun Weixiang , Liu Xinxing , Tong Zhen
Published: December 2014

A facile method was explored to reinforce the poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAm)‐hectorite nanocomposite hydrogel (NC gel) by heat treatment at temperature above the volume phase transition temperature (VPTT), which enhanced mechanical strength and reduced swelling capacity with denser microporous structure as compared with the non‐treated NC gel. This reinforcement effect was increased by increasing treating temperature and/or treating time, which still remained even after swelling, indicating an irreversible structure change in the treated NC gels. Heat treatment became more effective when the NC gel contained higher clay content. The quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) data showed that the interaction between PNIPAm chains and clay platelets became stronger at temperatures higher than the VPTT, causing an increase in the crosslinking density of the treated NC gels. A strong hydrogel was obtained by heat treatment of the aqueous mixture of PNIPAm and hectorite clay for the first time. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:1557–1563, 2016. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Fiber hybrid polyimide‐based composites reinforced with carbon fiber and poly‐p‐phenylene benzobisthiazole fiber: Tribological behaviors under sea water lubrication
Authors: Chen Beibei , Yang Jin , Wang Jianzhang , Liu Ning , Li Hongping , Yan Fengyuan
Published: December 2014

Fiber hybrid polyimide‐based (PI‐based) composites reinforced with carbon fiber (CF) and poly‐p‐phenylene benzobisthiazole (PBO) fiber of different volume fractions were fabricated by means of hot press molding technique, and their mechanical properties and tribological behaviors under sea water lubrication were systematically investigated in relation to the synergism of CF and PBO fiber. Results showed that the incorporation of CF or PBO fiber improved the tensile strength, hardness, and wear resistance of PI. More importantly, because of the synergistic enhancement effect between CF and PBO fiber on PI matrix, the combination of 10%CF and 5%PBO fiber reinforced PI‐based composite had the best mechanical and tribological properties, showing promising application in ocean environment. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:1650–1658, 2016. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Important options available — from start to finish — for translating proteomics results to clinical chemistry
Authors: Heegaard Niels H. H. , Østergaard Ole , Bahl Justyna M. C. , Overgaard Martin , Beck Hans C. , Rasmussen Lars Melholt , Larsen Martin R.
Published: December 2014

In the realm of clinical chemistry, the field of clinical proteomics, that is, the application of proteomic methods for understanding mechanisms and enabling diagnosis, prediction, measurement of activity, and treatment response in disease, is first and foremost a discovery and research tool that feeds assay development downstream. Putative new assay candidates generated by proteomics discovery projects compete with well‐established assays with known indications, well‐described performance, and of known value in specific clinical settings. Careful attention to the many options available in the design, execution, and interpretation of clinical proteomics studies is thus necessary for translation into clinical practice. We here review and discuss important options associated with clinical proteomics endeavors stretching from the planning phases to the final use in clinical chemistry.
Conventional NMA as a better standard for evaluating elastic network models
Authors: Na Hyuntae , Song Guang
Published: December 2014

Normal mode analysis (NMA) is an important tool for studying protein dynamics. Because of the complexity of conventional NMA that uses an all‐atom model and a semi‐empirical force field, many simplified NMA models have been developed, some of which are known as elastic network models. The quality of these simplified NMA models was assessed mostly by evaluating their predictions against experimental B‐factors, and rarely by comparing them with the original NMA. In this work, we take the effort to create a publicly accessible dataset of proteins with their minimized structures, NMA modes, and mean‐square fluctuations. Then, for the first time, we evaluate the quality of individual normal modes of several widely used elastic network models by comparing them with the conventional NMA. Our results demonstrate that the conventional NMA presents a better and more complete evaluation measure of the quality of elastic network models. This realization should be very helpful in improving current or designing new, higher quality elastic network models. Moreover, using the conventional NMA as the standard of evaluation, a number of interesting and significant insights into the elastic network models are gained. Proteins 2015; 83:259–267. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis, insecticidal activities and structure–activity relationship studies of novel anthranilic diamides containing pyridylpyrazole‐4‐carboxamide
Authors: Chen Kai , Liu Qi , Ni Jue‐Ping , Zhu Hong‐Jun , Li Yu‐Feng , Wang Qiang
Published: December 2014

BACKGROUND

Anthranilic diamide insecticides containing pyridylpyrazole‐5‐carboxamide are extremely important in modern agriculture. New structurally modified compounds with high insecticidal activity were discovered by designing a series of novel pyridylpyrazole‐4‐carboxamides (9I to 9IV) and pyridylpyrazole‐4‐carboxamides (10I to 10IV), the latter designed by the cyclisation of two amides. The structure–activity relationship (SAR) between the two series is of interest.

RESULTS

Two series of novel anthranilic diamides containing pyridylpyrazole‐4‐carboxamide were synthesised and characterised via melting point, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, MS and elemental analyses. The insecticidal activities of these compounds against Plutella xylostella were evaluated. At a concentration of 100 mg L−1, the compounds with unmodified amide moieties (9I to 9IV) exhibited much better larvicidal activities than the other derivative compounds (10I to 10IV). Most of the compounds 9I to 9IV showed over 90% larvicidal activity at 100 mg L−1. Furthermore, compounds 9IIIa, 9IIIc, 9IIId and 9IVd displayed significant insecticidal activity at 10 mg L−1. Density functional theory (DFT) calculation was carried out to provide more information regarding SAR.

CONCLUSION

Thirty‐two new anthranlic diamides containing pyridylpyrazole‐4‐carboxamide were designed and obtained. SAR analysis and DFT calculation results revealed that the amide moiety had a very important effect on bioactivity. This work has provided information that could aid investigations of novel insecticides. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Photoluminescence of Si nanocrystals embedded in : Excitation/emission mapping
Authors: Vaccaro L. , Spallino L. , Zatsepin A. F. , Buntov E. A. , Ershov A. V. , Grachev D. A. , Cannas M.
Published: December 2014

Time‐resolved photoluminescence from Si nanocrystals produced by 1100C thermal annealing of SiO/SiO multilayers were investigated by tunable laser excitation, achieving a detailed excitation/emission pattern in the visible and UV range. The emission lineshape is a gaussian curve inhomogenously broadened because of the size distribution of Si nanocrystals, the excitation spectrum consists of the overlap of two gaussian bands centered around 3.4 and 5.1 eV. The mapping of luminescence spectral components with the lifetime points out the energy cubic dependence of the spontaneous emission rate. These findings are interpreted on the basis of models proposed in literature that associate this luminescence with quantum confinement of excitons or interfacial Si/SiO defects.
Effect of pH and ionic strength on the electrical charge and particle size distribution of starch nanocrystal suspensions
Authors: Romdhane Ahlem , Aurousseau Marc , Guillet Agnès , Mauret Evelyne
Published: December 2014

The current study investigates the amount of charged groups induced by sulfuric acid hydrolysis on the surface of starch nanocrystals. Conductometric titration revealed the existence of both weak and strong acidic groups. Strong acidic groups (sulfate ester groups) were present at low amounts (13.2 mmol kg−1) and their concentration increased with increasing duration of hydrolysis. The amounts of weak acidic groups (carboxylic acid) were greater (32–38 mmol kg−1) and the duration of hydrolysis appeared to have no effect. Negative zeta potential values were measured in the studied pH ranges (2.3 and 10). Zeta potential decreased for pH values fewer than 4, remained constant between 4 and 8, then decreased for higher values. Absolute zeta potential values were low (−6 to −29 mV) which could explain the poor suspension stability and the great tendency for particles to aggregate and settle in an aqueous medium. The increase in the pH of the suspension resulted in a lower aggregation as the mean apparent size of the particles decreased in this case. The increase in ionic strength had a similar effect, although the mechanisms involved were hypothesised to be quite different.
π‐Conjugated Aromatics Based on Truxene: Synthesis, Self‐Assembly, and Applications
Authors: Shi Ke , Wang Jie‐Yu , Pei Jian
Published: December 2014

Recently, many efforts have been devoted to developing novel polycyclic aromatics due to their unique optical and electronic properties and broad applications, such as in organic field‐effect transistors, organic photovoltaics, and organic light‐emitting diodes. Among various π‐conjugated molecules, many truxene derivatives have interesting characteristics such as C3‐symmetry, strong blue emission, and a planar rigid structure. Moreover, compared with many other π‐conjugated aromatics, the synthesis and modification of truxene are particularly facile and diverse. In this account, we summarize investigations into truxene derivatives from synthesis and physical properties to applications in organic electronics.

graphic
Availability, utilization, and quality of emergency obstetric care services in Bauchi State, Nigeria
Authors: Abegunde Dele , Kabo Ibrahim A. , Sambisa William , Akomolafe Toyin , Orobaton Nosa , Abdulkarim Masduk , Sadauki Habib
Published: December 2014

Objective

To report the availability, utilization, and quality of emergency obstetric care (EmOC) services in Bauchi State, Nigeria.

Methods

Between June and July 2012, a cross‐sectional survey of health facilities was conducted. Data on the performance of EmOC services between June 2011 and May 2012 were obtained from records of 20 general hospitals and 39 primary healthcare centers providing delivery services. Additionally, structured interviews with facility managers were conducted.

Results

Only 6 (10.2%) of the 59 facilities met the UN requirements for EmOC centers. None of the three senatorial zones in Bauchi State had the minimum acceptable number of five EmOC facilities per 500 000 population. Overall, 10 517 (4.4%) of the estimated 239 930 annual births took place in EmOC facilities. Cesarean delivery accounted for 3.6% (n = 380) of the 10 517 births occurring in EmOC facilities and 0.2% of the 239 930 expected live births. Only 1416 (3.9%) of the expected 35 990 obstetric complications were managed in EmOC facilities. Overall, 45 (3.2%) of 1416 women with major direct obstetric complications treated at EmOC facilities died. Among 379 maternal deaths, 317 (83.6%) were attributable to major direct obstetric complications.

Conclusion

Availability, utilization, and quality of EmOC services in Bauchi State, Nigeria, are suboptimal. The health system's capacity to manage emergency obstetric complications needs to be strengthened.