bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aggregation and inactivation of pancreatic cystatin by riboflavin‐derived singlet oxygen and flavin triplet state: Polyphenols as preventive agents
Authors: Priyadarshini Medha , Khan Mohd. Shahnawaz , Bano Bilqees
Published: May 2012

Caprine pancreatic thiol proteinase inhibitor (PTPI) a cystatin superfamily variant has high affinity for cysteine proteinases providing tight regulation of their proteolytic potential. Oxidative stress buildup in various pancreatic pathologies worsens the disease course often by disturbing the delicate balance between proteinases and their inhibitors. We aimed to study the effect of reactive oxygen species (ROS) on PTPI and to determine the potency of caffeic acid, curcumin and quercetin as agents against the inflicted damage. Fluorescence spectroscopy, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and papain inhibitory assay revealed that photoilluminated riboflavin severely challenged the functional and structural integrity of the inhibitor. Three hundred and fifty micromolar affeic acid or quercetin prevented the damage. Curcumin, however, failed to reverse the changes completely. Conclusively, PTPI rendered dysfunctional by ROS may explain the increased necrotic damage to the host tissue. Also, dietary antioxidants can reverse the riboflavin‐induced protein damage providing an economic and safe anti‐ROS therapy. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 26:187–192, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/jbt.20423
Host response to xenograft ECM implantation is not different between the shoulder and body wall sites in the rat model
Authors: Leigh Diane R. , Mesiha Mena , Baker Andrew R. , Walker Esteban , Derwin Kathleen A.
Published: May 2012

In the context of tendon and ligament repair, mechanical loading and the presence of joint synovial fluid are known to profoundly influence the form and function of the repair tissue and potentially the host response to biomaterials. Previously, we demonstrated that a xenograft extra cellular matrix (ECM) scaffold implanted in the rat shoulder elicited a unique host response from that seen in the body wall. However, the host response to xenografts implanted in shoulders with a tendon/capsule injury was not different from xenografts implanted in shoulders with no injury. In the current study, we hypothesized that varying clinically relevant surgical and environmental factors would introduce significant differences in host response to xenograft implantation at the shoulder. Contrary to our hypothesis, we found no significant differences in host response between any shoulder implantation conditions or between shoulder and body wall implantation in the rat model. These findings suggest that there is no advantage to using an orthotopic shoulder model to investigate the host response to rotator cuff scaffold materials in the rat model, and due to the insensitivity of its host response to various clinically relevant surgical conditions, may suggest that the rat does not provide a surrogate for directly translating the host response to biomaterials to the human application. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:1725–1731, 2012
The younger dryas cooling in northeast Germany: summer temperature and environmental changes in the Friedländer Groβe Wiese region
Authors: van Asch Nelleke , Kloos Marjan E. , Heiri Oliver , de Klerk Pim , Hoek Wim Z.
Published: May 2012

A lake sediment record from the Friedländer Groβe Wiese in northeast Germany was studied to reconstruct summer temperature changes associated with changes in vegetation development during the Weichselian Lateglacial. The record was analysed for pollen, chironomids, and oxygen and carbon isotopes of lake marl. The combination of radiocarbon dates, the presence of the Laacher See Tephra and correlation of lithological and palynological changes with other records from the region indicated that the record encompassed the Allerød to the early Holocene. Pollen assemblages reflect development of birch and later pine‐dominated forests during the Allerød, comparable to other sites in the region. Chironomid‐inferred mean July air temperatures (C‐IT) for this period range between ∼14.0 and 14.8°C. A temporary decrease in C‐IT of ∼1°C, a negative shift in the isotope records, and a minor decline of birch may correspond to Greenland Interstadial 1b. Even though the transition to the Younger Dryas appears to be affected by reworking and redeposition processes, a drop in C‐IT to ∼11.1°C is reconstructed for the later part of the Younger Dryas, while it appears that pine locally persisted in the region. Comparison with a nearby pollen record further indicates a local expansion of wetland grasses during this period. At the transition to the Holocene, C‐IT increased to ∼15.7°C, while birch and pine forests re‐expanded. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Application of HSQC in the delineation of NMR signals of E and Z isomers of octadecyl p‐coumarates
Authors: Nidiry Eugene Sebastian J.
Published: May 2012

Octadecyl p‐coumarates undergo E–Z isomerization in daylight. Although 1H NMR, 13C NMR and 1H–1H COSY gave indications about this isomerization, the overlapping of some signals in the 1H NMR of aromatic region prevented the delineation of signals of the individual isomers. However, heteronuclear spin quantum coupling correlation (HSQC) with the unique feature of two sets of nearby δC–δH correlations gave conclusive evidence for this isomerization and helped in the delineation of 1H NMR and 13C NMR signals of E‐octadecyl p‐coumarate and Z‐octadecyl p‐coumarate. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Real‐time mechanistic monitoring of an acetal hydrolysis using ultrafast 2D NMR
Authors: Queiroz Luiz H. K. , Giraudeau Patrick , dos Santos Fabiane A. B. , de Oliveira Kleber T. , Ferreira Antonio G.
Published: May 2012

Ultrafast (UF) 2D NMR makes it possible to obtain a 2D NMR spectrum in less than a second. Here, UF‐HSQC experiments are used for the real‐time mechanistic study of an acetal hydrolysis at ¹³C natural abundance, and it is possible to characterize the presence of the hemiacetal, an intermediate with a well‐known short lifetime. The assignments are confirmed and rationalized by quantum calculations of ¹H and ¹³C NMR chemical shifts and natural bonding orbital analysis. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stereospecificity of1H,13C and15N shielding constants in the isomers of methylglyoxal bisdimethylhydrazone: problem with configurational assignment based on1H chemical shifts
Authors: Afonin Andrei V. , Pavlov Dmitry V. , Ushakov Igor A. , Keiko Natalia A.
Published: May 2012

In the13C NMR spectra of methylglyoxal bisdimethylhydrazone, the13C‐5 signal is shifted to higher frequencies, while the13C‐6 signal is shifted to lower frequencies on going from theEEtoZEisomer following the trend found previously. Surprisingly, the1H‐6 chemical shift and1J(C‐6,H‐6) coupling constant are noticeably larger in theZEisomer than in theEEisomer, although the configuration around the –CH═N– bond does not change. This paradox can be rationalized by the C–H⋯N intramolecular hydrogen bond in theZEisomer, which is found from the quantum‐chemical calculations including Bader's quantum theory of atoms in molecules analysis. This hydrogen bond results in the increase ofδ(1H‐6) and1J(C‐6,H‐6) parameters. The effect of the C–H⋯N hydrogen bond on the1H shielding and one‐bond13C–1H coupling complicates the configurational assignment of the considered compound because of these spectral parameters. The1H,13C and15N chemical shifts of the 2‐ and 8‐(CH3)2N groups attached to the –C(CH3)═N– and –CH═N– moieties, respectively, reveal pronounced difference. Theab initiocalculations show that the 8‐(CH3)2N group conjugate effectively with the π‐framework, and the 2‐(CH3)2N group twisted out from the plane of the backbone and loses conjugation. As a result, the degree of charge transfer from the N‐2– and N‐8– nitrogen lone pairs to the π‐framework varies, which affects the1H,13C and15N shieldings. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantification and visualization of flow in the Circle of Willis: Time‐resolved three‐dimensional phase contrast MRI at 7 T compared with 3 T
Authors: van Ooij P. , Zwanenburg J. J. M. , Visser F. , Majoie C. B. , vanBavel E. , Hendrikse J. , Nederveen A. J.
Published: May 2012

The assessment of both geometry and hemodynamics of the intracranial arteries has important diagnostic value in internal carotid occlusion, sickle cell disease, and aneurysm development. Provided that signal to noise ratio (SNR) and resolution are high, these factors can be measured with time‐resolved three‐dimensional phase contrast MRI. However, within a given scan time duration, an increase in resolution causes a decrease in SNR and vice versa, hampering flow quantification and visualization. To study the benefits of higher SNR at 7 T, three‐dimensional phase contrast MRI in the Circle of Willis was performed at 3 T and 7 T in five volunteers. Results showed that the SNR at 7 T was roughly 2.6 times higher than at 3 T. Therefore, segmentation of small vessels such as the anterior and posterior communicating arteries succeeded more frequently at 7 T. Direction of flow and smoothness of streamlines in the anterior and posterior communicating arteries were more pronounced at 7 T. Mean velocity magnitude values in the vessels of the Circle of Willis were higher at 3 T due to noise compared to 7 T. Likewise, areas of the vessels were lower at 3 T. In conclusion, the gain in SNR at 7 T compared to 3 T allows for improved flow visualization and quantification in intracranial arteries. Magn Reson Med, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Paraneoplastic lower motor neuronopathy associated with Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Flanagan Eoin P. , Sandroni Paola , Pittock sean j. , Inwards David J. , Jones Lyell K.
Published: May 2012

Introduction: Paraneoplastic lower motor neuronopathies have been reported rarely with Hodgkin lymphoma. Methods: We report a case of rapidly progressive motor neuronopathy preceding the diagnosis of Hodgkin lymphoma. Results: A 31‐year‐old woman developed subacute rapidly progressive quadriparesis. Electrodiagnostic studies revealed a severe diffuse disorder of motor neurons and their axons. Symmetric enhancement of the cauda equina motor nerve roots was notable on magnetic resonance imaging scan. Further imaging demonstrated an enlarged supraclavicular lymph node, and biopsy revealed Hodgkin lymphoma. A final diagnosis of paraneoplastic motor neuronopathy was made after investigations for alternative causes of motor neuronopathy were unrevealing. Neurological improvement was seen with combined treatment of the underlying malignancy and intravenous immunoglobulin.

Conclusions: Paraneoplastic causes should be considered in the differential diagnosis of subacute motor neuronopathy, as the neurological presentation may precede cancer detection. Combinations of lymphoma treatment and immunotherapy may result in a favorable outcome. Muscle Nerve 46: 823–827, 2012
Nitric oxide prevents atorvastatin‐induced skeletal muscle dysfunction and alterations in mice
Authors: D'Antona Giuseppe , Mascaro Anna , Monopoli Angela , Miglietta Daniela , Ongini Ennio , Bottinelli Roberto
Published: May 2012

Introduction:

Myopathy is the most common side effect of statins. Because nitric oxide (NO) has a key role in regulating skeletal muscle function, we studied whether the NO‐donating atorvastatin NCX 6560 could show a better profile on skeletal muscle function and structure compared with atorvastatin.

Methods:

C57BL/6 mice received atorvastatin 40 mg/kg/day or an equivalent dose of NCX 6560 for 2 months. Muscle function assessed by treadmill test, serum creatine kinase (CK) activity, citrate synthase (CS) activity, and muscle histology were evaluated.

Results:

Atorvastatin significantly (P < 0.001) reduced muscle endurance, increased serum CK by 6‐fold, and induced muscle fiber atrophy. Conversely, NCX 6560 preserved muscle function, prevented CK increase and did not modify muscle structure. Interestingly, atorvastatin reduced CS activity, a marker for mitochondrial function, in gastrocnemius, diaphragm, and heart, whereas NCX 6560 prevented such decrease.

Conclusions:

These findings suggest that NO may prevent statin‐induced myopathy. Muscle Nerve, 2013
Improved outcome in pediatric AML due to augmented supportive care
Authors: Jastaniah Wasil , Abrar Mohammed Burhan , Khattab Taha M.
Published: May 2012

We conducted a retrospective review of patients treated following the MRC acute myeloid leukemia (AML) 10 protocol to determine if supportive care measures sequentially introduced by our institution led to a significant improvement in treatment‐related mortality (TRM) in newly diagnosed pediatric patients with AML. Patients were partitioned based on supportive care measures into era1, from 1996 to 2002 (n = 20), and era2, from 2003 to 2011 (n = 40). The introduced supportive care measures reduced the TRM from 23.4% in era1 to 2.5% in era2 (P = 0.034). The results demonstrate that supportive care is a significant factor in determining the outcome of childhood AML. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 59: 919–921. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The utility of end‐of‐treatment bone marrow aspirates in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A quality improvement project
Authors: Gupta Sumit , Crump Hannah L. , Alexander Sarah
Published: May 2012

We reviewed the use, results and costs of end‐of‐treatment bone marrow aspirates (EOTBMAs) performed locally in patients diagnosed with ALL between 2000 and 2005. Of 193 patients, 188(97%) received EOTBMAs. Though 15/188(8.0%) patients experienced relapse at a median time of 1.1 years (range 0.1–4 years), no sign of relapse was detected on any EOTBMA. After communication of results to clinical staff, only 2/17 (12%) of patients with ALL finishing treatment in the subsequent 5 months received an EOTBMA (P < 0.0001). Our results confirm the futility of EOTBMAs in a large contemporary cohort. Disseminating local results may help ensure adherence to best practices. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 59: 1305–1306. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Concurrent radiation with irinotecan and carboplatin in intermediate‐ and high‐risk rhabdomyosarcoma: A report on toxicity and efficacy from a prospective pilot phase II study
Authors: Dharmarajan Kavita V. , Wexler Leonard H. , Wolden Suzanne L.
Published: May 2012

Background

Irinotecan is highly active against rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), yet its tolerability and efficacy in combination with radiation is unknown. We examined local control and toxicities in RMS patients treated with radiotherapy (RT) in combination with radiosensitizing agents irinotecan + carboplatin (I + C).

Procedure

From 11/2003 to 1/2011, 60 patients were enrolled on a pilot phase II protocol with newly diagnosed intermediate‐ or high‐risk RMS at Memorial Sloan‐Kettering Cancer Center. Induction therapy consisted of two cycles of I + C followed by three cycles of vincristine, doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide. At week 13, 47 patients received definitive primary‐site RT or post‐operative RT with two concurrent cycles of I + C. Median RT dose was 50.4 Gy (range 30.6–50.4 Gy). Radiation‐related toxicities were evaluated according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, version 3.0.

Results

Median age of the cohort was 9 years. With median follow‐up of 32 months, 2.5 year actuarial local control was 89%. Among all patients, grades 3 and 4 dermatitis were observed in 11% and 4%, respectively. Among parameningeal, orbit, and other head/neck sites, rates of grades 3 and 4 mucositis were 20% and 10%, respectively. Among abdomen/pelvis sites, 12% developed grade 3 diarrhea and 6% developed grade 3 cystitis. No treatment breaks were necessary.

Conclusions

Preliminary results of irinotecan and carboplatin administered with concurrent RT in intermediate‐ and high‐risk RMS demonstrated favorable tolerability, efficacy, and local control. Reduced rates of acute grades 3–4 mucositis were observed when compared with historical results. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013;60:242–247. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Relationship of general self‐efficacy with anxiety, symptom severity and quality of life in cancer patients before and after radiotherapy treatment
Authors: Mystakidou Kyriaki , Tsilika Eleni , Parpa Efi , Gogou Pinelopi , Panagiotou Irene , Vassiliou Ioannis , Gouliamos Athanasios
Published: May 2012

Purpose

Treatment‐related symptoms can increase psychological and physical distress and alter the patient's quality of life. The present study evaluates prospectively treatment‐related symptoms, general self‐efficacy, anxiety and quality of life (QoL) in patients with different types of cancer undergoing external beam radiotherapy (RT) and the relationship of patients' general self‐efficacy with the assessed measures, at the baseline and their absolute change 1 month after the end of the treatment.

Methods

The sample consisted of 90 cancer patients. General self‐efficacy was assessed using the General Perceived Self‐efficacy (GSE). QoL was evaluated using the Linear Analogue Scale Assessment (LASA), anxiety with the Anxiety subscale of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression (HAD) scale, whereas symptom severity and interference were assessed using the MD Anderson Symptom Inventory (MDASI). The instruments were administered first at the beginning of the RT and then 1 month after the completion of the RT.

Results

At post‐treatment, general self‐efficacy was reduced (28.86 ± 6.42), anxiety scores were elevated (9.56 ± 4.42), QoL scores were reduced (6.74 ± 1.81) and symptoms severity were deteriorated (3.24 ± 2.62). Pre‐treatment and post‐treatment absolute change scores revealed statistically significant negative correlations between general self‐efficacy absolute scores and anxiety (p < 0.0005). Moderate negative correlations between general self‐efficacy absolute scores and symptoms (MDASI symptom severity: p = 0.003, symptom interference: p = 0.002), whereas a low positive correlation was found between general self‐efficacy absolute scores and LASA energy scale (p = 0.048).

Conclusions

A sense of self‐efficacy and its relationship with anxiety, symptom distress and quality of life are important factors for patients receiving radiotherapy. Health care professionals need to be aware of anxiety, symptom severity and patient's quality of life prior to treatment initiation. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of biochemical failure definitions for predicting local cancer recurrence following cryoablation of the prostate
Authors: Pitman Max , Shapiro Edan Y. , Hruby Gregory W. , Truesdale Matthew D. , Cheetham Philippa J. , Saad Shumaila , Katz Aaron E.
Published: May 2012

BACKGROUND

Various definitions of biochemical failure (BF) have been used to predict cancer recurrence following prostate cryoablation. However to date, none of these definitions have been validated for this use. We have reviewed several definitions of BF to determine their accuracy in predicting biopsy‐proven local recurrence following prostate cryoablation.

METHODS

The Columbia University Urologic Oncology Database was queried for patients who underwent prostate cryoablation between 1994 and 2010, and who subsequently underwent surveillance biopsy due to clinical suspicion of prostate cancer recurrence. Serial postoperative prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) results were used to determine BF according to various definitions of BF. Biopsy results were used to determine local recurrence. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve area were calculated for each of the BF definitions.

RESULTS

A total of 110 patients met inclusion criteria for the study. These patients were treated with primary full‐gland (n = 38), primary focal (n = 24), or salvage cryoablation (n = 48). On surveillance biopsy, 66 patients (60%) were found to have locally recurrent prostate cancer. The most accurate BF definition overall was PSA nadir plus 2 ng/ml (Phoenix definition), with sensitivity, specificity, and ROC curve area of 68%, 59%, and 0.64, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the Phoenix definition best predicted local cancer recurrence following prostate cryoablation. These preliminary data may be useful for researchers evaluating the short‐term efficacy of cryoablation, and for urologists assessing their patients for potential cancer recurrence. Prostate 72:1802–1808, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Computational modeling of standard reduction potentials of B12 cofactors
Authors: Kumar Manoj , Galezowski Wlodzimierz , Kozlowski Pawel M.
Published: May 2012

Density functional theory using a variety of functionals (i.e., BP86, B3LYP, B3LYP‐D, B3PW91, PBE1PBE, mPW1PBE, mPW3PBE, and mPW1PW91) in combination with a polarizable continuum solvent model is applied to compute the standard reduction potentials of methylcobalamin (MeCbl) and adenosylcobalamin (AdoCbl) cofactors, respectively. A fairly good agreement between experiment and theory is obtained when the reduction potentials are computed in dimethylforamide solvent using BP86/6‐31+G* level of theory. The computed reduction potentials of MeCbl and AdoCbl cofactors are predicted within 0.1–0.2 V of their experimental values. The reliability of the calibrated protocol is further testified when an acceptable degree of reproducibility (experiment vs. theory) is achieved with regard to the reduction potential of the cob(II)alamin/cob(I)alamin couple. The calibrated theoretical strategy is then exploited to understand the role of the upper axial ligand in governing the reduction potentials of alkylcobalamins. It is noted that the electron donating axial ligands tend to depress the reduction potential while electron withdrawing axial ligands (fluorinated ligands) raise the reduction potentials of the alkylcobalamins. The electronic structure calculations imply that the computed reduction potentials of alkylcobalamins are directly correlated with the energies of their lowest unoccupied molecular orbitals (ELUMO values). Thus it is concluded that the ELUMO values of alkylcobalamins that depend upon the electronic nature of the upper axial ligands serve as the key descriptors of their reduction potentials. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Interactions between 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ionic liquid and γ‐Al2O3(100) surface calculated by density functional theory
Authors: Martins Mateus J. F. , Ferreira Ary R. , Konstantinova Elena , de Abreu Heitor A. , Souza Wladmir F. , Chiaro Sandra S. X. , Dias Luís G. , Leitão Alexandre A.
Published: May 2012

The main aim of this work is to investigate the 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([C4C1Im]+[BF4]−) ionic liquid (IL) adsorption on the γ‐Al2O3(100) by density functional theory calculations to try to rationalize the adsorption as an electrostatic phenomenon. Optimized geometries and interaction energies of IL one‐monolayer on the γ‐Al2O3were obtained on high surface coverage (one cation–anion pair per 94.96 nm2). A study of dispersion force was made to estimate its contribution to the adsorption. Overall, the process is ruled by electrostatic interaction between ions and surface. Adsorption of the anion [BF4]−and cation [C4C1Im]+was also studied by Bader charge analysis and charge density difference for supported and unsupported situations. It is suggested that the IL ions have their charges maintained with significant anion cloud polarization inward to the acid aluminum sites. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Asymptotic behaviour at a tip of a rigid line inclusion in linearized elasticity
Authors: Itou H. , Khludnev A.M. , Rudoy E.M. , Tani A.
Published: May 2012

We consider an asymptotic behaviour of a solution near a tip of a rigid line inclusion in two dimensional homogeneous isotropic linearized elasticity. By means of Goursat‐Kolosov‐Muskhelishvili stress functions we derive convergent expansions of the solution around there. Furthermore, we give expressions of the invariant integral and the Irwin's formula.
A higher‐order finite element approach to the Kuramoto‐Sivashinsky equation
Authors: Anders D. , Dittmann M. , Weinberg K.
Published: May 2012

The Kuramoto‐Sivashinsky equation has emerged as a fundamental evolution equation to describe highly nonlinear physical processes in unstable systems. In general, it constitutes a nonlinear initial‐valued problem involving fourth‐order spatial derivatives. Finite element solutions for the Kuramoto‐Sivashinsky equation are not common because the primal variational formulation of fourth‐order operators requires finite element basis functions which are piecewise smooth and globally at least C1‐continuous. In this paper a novel B‐spline based finite element approach to the solution of the one‐dimensional Kuramoto‐Sivashinsky equation is presented. Extensive numerical studies of different scenarios in the Kuramoto‐Sivashinsky equation will illustrate the quality of our approach.
Once more on the Witten index of 3d supersymmetric YM-CS theory
Authors: Smilga A.V.
Published: May 2012

Abstract

The problem of counting the vacuum states in the supersymmetric 3d Yang- Mills-Chern-Simons theory is reconsidered. We resolve the controversy between its original calculation in [1] at large volumes g
2L ≫ 1 and the calculation based on the evaluation of the effective Lagrangian in the small volume limit, g
2L ≪ 1 [2]. We show that the latter calculation suffers from uncertainties associated with the singularities in the moduli space of classical vacua where the Born-Oppenheimer approximation breaks down. We also show that these singularities can be accurately treated in the Hamiltonian Born-Oppenheimer method, where one has to match carefully the effective wave functions on the Abelian valley and the wave functions of reduced non-Abelian QM theory near the singularities. This gives the same result as original Witten’s calculation.
A biomimetic domino reaction for the concise synthesis of capreomycidine and epicapreomycidine
Authors: Büschleb Martin , Granitzka Markus , Stalke Dietmar , Ducho Christian
Published: May 2012

The non-proteinogenic amino acids capreomycidine and epicapreomycidine are constituents of antibiotically active natural products, but the synthesis of these unusual cyclic guanidine derivatives is challenging. The biosynthesis of capreomycidine has therefore been employed as a guideline to develop a concise biomimetic synthesis of both epimeric amino acids. The resulting domino-guanidinylation-aza-Michael-addition reaction provides the most convenient access to these amino acids in racemic form. Attempts to dissect the domino reaction into two separate transformations for a stereocontrolled version of this synthetic approach have also been made. The synthesized didehydro-arginine derivatives with urethane-protected guanidine moieties did not undergo the aza-Michael-addition anymore. These results may have wider implications for the 1,4-addition of guanidines to α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds, particularly to didehydro amino acids.
Using the Interactive Systems Framework to Support a Quality Improvement Approach to Dissemination of Evidence‐Based Strategies to Promote Early Detection of Breast Cancer: Planning a Comprehensive Dynamic Trial
Authors: Rapkin Bruce D. , Weiss Elisa S. , Lounsbury David W. , Thompson Hayley S. , Goodman Robert M. , Schechter Clyde B. , Merzel Cheryl , Shelton Rachel C. , Blank Arthur E. , Erb-Downward Jennifer , Williams Abigail , Valera Pamela , Padgett Deborah K.
Published: May 2012

Dissemination efforts must optimize interventions for new settings and populations. As such, dissemination research should incorporate principles of quality improvement. Comprehensive Dynamic Trial (CDT) designs examine how information gained during dissemination may be used to modify interventions and improve performance. Although CDT may offer distinct advantages over static designs, organizing the many necessary roles and activities is a significant challenge. In this article, we discuss use of the Interactive Systems Framework for Dissemination and Implementation to systematically implement a CDT. Specifically, we describe “Bronx ACCESS”, a program designed to disseminate evidence‐based strategies to promote adherence to mammography guidelines. In Bronx ACCESS, the Intervention Delivery System will elicit information needed to adapt strategies to specific settings and circumstances. The Intervention Synthesis and Translation System will use this information to test changes to strategies through “embedded experiments”. The Intervention Support System will build local capacities found to be necessary for intervention institutionalization. Simulation modeling will be used to integrate findings across systems. Results will inform on‐going policy debate about interventions needed to promote population‐level screening. More generally, this project is intended to advance understanding of research paradigms necessary to study dissemination.

Special Issue: Advances in Bridging Research and Practice Using the Interactive System Framework for Dissemination and Implementation; Guest Editors: Abraham Wandersman, Paul Flaspohler, Catherine A. Lesesne, Richard Puddy; Action Editor: Emilie Phillips Smith
Practical Implementation Science: Developing and Piloting the Quality Implementation Tool
Authors: Meyers Duncan C. , Katz Jason , Chien Victoria , Wandersman Abraham , Scaccia Jonathan P. , Wright Annie
Published: May 2012

According to the Interactive Systems Framework for Dissemination and Implementation, implementation is a major mechanism and concern in bridging research and practice. The growing number of implementation frameworks need to be synthesized and translated so that the science and practice of quality implementation can be furthered. In this article, we: (1) use the synthesis of frameworks developed by Meyers et al. (Am J Commun Psychol, 2012) and translate the results into a practical implementation science tool to use for improving quality of implementation (i.e., the Quality Implementation Tool; QIT), and (2) present some of the benefits and limitations of the tool by describing how the QIT was implemented in two different pilot projects. We discuss how the QIT can be used to guide collaborative planning, monitoring, and evaluation of how an innovation is implemented.

Special Issue: Advances in Bridging Research and Practice Using the Interactive System Framework for Dissemination and Implementation; Guest Editors: Abraham Wandersman, Paul Flaspohler, Catherine A. Lesesne, Richard Puddy; Action Editor: Emilie Phillips Smith
Stem, branch and leaf biomass‐density relationships in forest communities
Authors: Zhang Wei‐Ping , Jia Xin , Morris E. Charles , Bai Yan‐Yuan , Wang Gen‐Xuan
Published: May 2012

Defining and quantifying biomass–density relationships in dense plant stands has been a long‐standing issue in both theoretical and empirical studies. Most existing/traditional studies focus on whole plant individuals, without considering different plant components (e.g., stem, branch and leaf). However, the analysis of biomass–density relationships for different plant parts is linked to those for whole plants, and thus important for understanding plant strategies for utilizing resources and community dynamics. In our study, we investigated standing stem (MS), branch (MB) and leaf (ML) biomass–density relationships, across a range of forest communities in China. The results showed that there was no constant predicted value (e.g., −1/2 or −1/3 for MS; −1/2, −1/3 or 0 for MB and ML) that can describe all the relationships, and that the scaling exponents for stem, branch and leaf biomass varied across different forest types. In particular, standing leaf biomass (leaf biomass per unit area) was not constant in these forest communities. Furthermore, stem biomass–density lines were steeper than corresponding branch and leaf lines across most of these forest communities.
The potential of forgiveness as a response for coping with negative peer experiences
Authors: Flanagan Kelly S. , Vanden Hoek Kristin K. , Ranter Jennifer M. , Reich Holly A.
Published: May 2012

Coping strategies employed by adolescents in response to negative peer experiences are related to their adjustment. This study examines the potential of forgiveness as a coping response for negative peer experiences in early adolescence. Participants were 616 6th through 8th grade students at a middle school (46% girls) who completed self‐report measures of bullying and victimization experiences, general coping strategies in response to bullying, social anxiety, self‐esteem, and a measure of forgiveness to a self‐identified experience of being bullied or hurt by a peer. Forgiveness was positively associated with conflict resolution, advice and support seeking strategies, and negatively associated with revenge seeking. Forgiveness was also positively associated with concurrent self‐esteem and negatively associated with social anxiety. Further, forgiveness was related to social anxiety and self‐esteem after accounting for bullying behavior and victimization experiences, general coping responses, and gender. Developmental considerations of forgiveness and implications for this response are considered.
The acceptability of treatments for depression to a community sample of adolescent girls
Authors: Caporino Nicole E. , Karver Marc S.
Published: May 2012

An efficacious treatment is diminished in value if consumers do not seek it out and adhere to it, making treatment acceptability an important predictor of the effectiveness of treatment. This study examined the acceptability of treatments for depression to 67 female high school students. All participants read a vignette describing a depressed adolescent and rated the acceptability of four single treatments for depression (cognitive‐behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, family therapy, and pharmacotherapy) and three treatment combinations. Psychotherapy approaches were generally more acceptable to adolescents than combinations of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy; and, pharmacotherapy used alone was not acceptable. For interpersonal therapy and family therapy only, treatment acceptability was related to perceived causes of depression. Across all treatments, acceptability was not associated with symptom severity. Implications for increasing the utilization of mental health services in this population are discussed.
PHD finger of the SUMO ligase Siz/PIAS family in rice reveals specific binding for methylated histone H3 at lysine 4 and arginine 2
Authors: Shindo Heisaburo , Suzuki Rintaro , Tsuchiya Wataru , Taichi Misako , Nishiuchi Yuji , Yamazaki Toshimasa
Published: May 2012

We determined the three‐dimensional structure of the PHD finger of the rice Siz/PIAS‐type SUMO ligase, OsSiz1, by NMR spectroscopy and investigated binding ability for a variety of methylated histone H3 tails, showing that OsSiz1–PHD primarily recognizes dimethylated Arg2 of the histone H3 and that methylations at Arg2 and Lys4 reveal synergy effect on binding to OsSiz1–PHD. The K4 cage of OsSiz1–PHD for trimethylated Lys4 of H3K4me3 was similar to that of the BPTF–PHD finger, while the R2 pocket for Arg2 was different. It is intriguing that the PHD module of Siz/PIAS plays an important role, with collaboration with the DNA binding domain SAP, in gene regulation through SUMOylation of a variety of effectors associated with the methylated arginine‐riched chromatin domains.
The human phosphatase interactome: An intricate family portrait
Authors: Sacco Francesca , Perfetto Livia , Castagnoli Luisa , Cesareni Gianni
Published: May 2012

The concerted activities of kinases and phosphatases modulate the phosphorylation levels of proteins, lipids and carbohydrates in eukaryotic cells. Despite considerable effort, we are still missing a holistic picture representing, at a proteome level, the functional relationships between kinases, phosphatases and their substrates. Here we focus on phosphatases and we review and integrate the available information that helps to place the members of the protein phosphatase superfamilies into the human protein interaction network. In addition we show how protein interaction domains and motifs, either covalently linked to the phosphatase domain or in regulatory/adaptor subunits, play a prominent role in substrate selection.
Uterine artery, umbilical, and fetal cerebral Doppler velocities after epidural analgesia during labor
Authors: Valentin Morgane , Ducarme Guillaume , Ceccaldi Pierre‐François , Bougeois Bernard , Luton Dominique
Published: May 2012

Objective

To evaluate the effects of epidural analgesia on uterine artery, umbilical, and fetal cerebral Doppler velocities during labor.

Methods

In a prospective study at Beaujon Hospital, Paris, France, between September and December 2010, uterine artery, umbilical, and fetal cerebral Doppler flow velocities were measured in 12 pregnant women during spontaneous labor with epidural analgesia. The data were registered in a period of uterine relaxation before, and 20 and 60 minutes after the first administration of epidural analgesic drugs. The changes in Doppler velocimetry values and fetal heart rate after epidural analgesia were analyzed.

Results

Uterine artery velocities, but neither umbilical nor fetal cerebral Doppler velocities, were decreased significantly at 20 minutes and 1 hour after epidural analgesia (P < 0.005). Women with the greatest decrease in uterine artery Doppler flow velocities delivered neonates with the lowest values of umbilical artery blood pH.

Conclusion

The data suggest that the Doppler flow velocity of uterine arteries is affected by epidural analgesia during labor. Numerous Doppler flow studies of the effect of neuraxial blockade during labor on umbilical and uterine arteries have been published with incredibly variable and inconsistent results.
A conditionally replicating adenovirus carrying interleukin‐24 sensitizes melanoma cells to radiotherapy via apoptosis
Authors: Jiang Guan , Zhang Kai , Jiang Ai-Jun , Xu Dan , Xin Yong , Wei Zhi-Ping , Zheng Jun-Nian , Liu Yan-Qun
Published: May 2012

Combinatorial therapy is the current trend of the development of novel cancer treatments due to the high heterogenous nature of solid tumors. In this study, we investigated the effects of the combined use of a conditionally replicating adenovirus carrying IL‐24 (ZD55‐IL‐24) and radiotherapy on the proliferation and apoptosis of melanoma A375 cells in vitro and in vivo. Compared with either agent used alone, ZD55‐IL‐24 combined with radiotherapy significantly inhibited cell proliferation, accompanied with increased apoptosis. Radiotherapy did not affect the expression of IL‐24 and E1A of ZD55‐IL‐24‐treated cells, but increased the expression of Bax, promoted the activation of caspase‐3, while decreasing Bcl‐2 levels. Thus, this synergistic effect of ZD55‐IL‐24 in combination with radiotherapy provides a novel strategy for the development of melanoma therapies, and is a promising approach for further clinical development.
Insecure Alliances: Risk, Inequality, and Support for the Welfare State
Authors: REHM PHILIPP , HACKER JACOB S. , SCHLESINGER MARK
Published: May 2012

Popular support for the welfare state varies greatly across nations and policy domains. We argue that these variations—vital to understanding the politics of the welfare state—reflect in part the degree to which economic disadvantage (low income) and economic insecurity (high risk) are correlated. When the disadvantaged and insecure are mostly one and the same, the base of popular support for the welfare state is narrow. When the disadvantaged and insecure represent two distinct groups, popular support is broader and opinion less polarized. We test these predictions both across nations within a single policy area (unemployment insurance) and across policy domains within a single polity (the United States, using a new survey). Results are consistent with our predictions and are robust to myriad controls and specifications. When disadvantage and insecurity are more correlated, the welfare state is more contested.
States of secrecy: an introduction
Authors: VERMEIR KOEN , MARGÓCSY DÁNIEL
Published: May 2012

This introductory article provides an overview of the historiography of scientific secrecy from J.D. Bernal and Robert Merton to this day. It reviews how historians and sociologists of science have explored the role of secrets in commercial and government-sponsored scientific research through the ages. Whether focusing on the medieval, early modern or modern periods, much of this historiography has conceptualized scientific secrets as valuable intellectual property that helps entrepreneurs and autocratic governments gain economic or military advantage over competitors. Following Georg Simmel and Max Weber, this article offers an alternative interpretation of secrecy as a tool to organize and to hierarchically order society. In this view, the knowledge content of secrecy is less important than its social-psychological effects. The authors argue that, in many instances, entrepreneurial researchers and governments use scientific secrets as an effective tool to manipulate the beliefs of their competitors and the larger public, and not necessarily to protect the knowledge that they hold.
Monanchora brasiliensis sp. nov. (Poecilosclerida: Demospongiae), new crambeid from the Brazilian coast, south-western Atlantic, with monodentate anchorate chelae
Authors: Esteves Eduardo L. , Lerner Cléa , Lôbo-Hajdu Gisele , Hajdu Eduardo
Published: May 2012

A new Brazilian endemic Monanchora is described, M. brasiliensis sp. nov. It is clearly distinct from any other species in the genus by the monodentate shape of its anchorate isochelae, and its smooth, centrotylote and strongyloid microrhabds. Monodentate anchorate isochelae are relatively common, normally abundant, and represent the main diagnostic character for recognizing the new species, but microrhabds are usually rare and may be even absent. Monanchora brasiliensis sp. nov. can be further differentiated from other Atlantic species of the genus in eventually showing tetralobate branches and a skeleton formed by well-defined honey-coloured spongin fibres. The affinities of the new species with other crambeids and the nature of anchorate isochelae, microrhabds as well as the megascleres in defining Monanchora are discussed. An amended diagnosis for the genus is proposed.
Feeding habits of Guiana dolphins, Sotalia guianensis, from south-eastern Brazil: new items and a knowledge review
Authors: Lopes Xênia Moreira , da Silva Ednilson , Bassoi Manuela , dos Santos Roberta Aguiar , de Oliveira Santos Marcos César
Published: May 2012

This study presents new information on feeding habits of Guiana dolphins, Sotalia guianensis, in south-eastern Brazil, together with new regression equations to evaluate the weight and length of fish from otoliths, showing an overview on the knowledge about this species’ diet in this area. Eighteen stomach contents had been analysed and compared to 180 samples collected in another eight feeding studies. The analysed specimens were either incidentally caught in gillnets used in coastal waters by the fleet based in the Cananéia main harbour (25°00′S 47°55′W), south of São Paulo State, or found dead in inner waters of the Cananéia estuary between 2003 and 2009. Based on the index of relative importance analysis, the most important fish species were the banded croaker, Paralonchurus brasiliensis. Doryteuthis plei was the most representative cephalopod species. Stellifer rastrifer was the most important fish species observed in dolphins in inner estuarine waters and P. brasiliensis in recovered dolphins from coastal waters. Loliguncula brevis is the only cephalopod species reported from dolphins found in inner estuarine waters up to date. Doryteuthis plei was the most important cephalopod species observed in coastal dolphins. When considering other feeding studies, the most representative fish family in the diet of S. guianensis was Sciaenidae, which is mainly represented by demersal fishes. The main preys of S. guianensis are abundant in the studied areas, which may indicate an opportunistic feeding habit. The majority of them are not the most important target species by the commercial fishery in south-eastern Brazil.
Dr. George Murray Levick (1876–1956): unpublished notes on the sexual habits of the Adélie penguin
Authors: Russell Douglas G.D. , Sladen William J.L. , Ainley David G.
Published: May 2012

A previously unpublished four-page pamphlet by Dr. George Murray Levick R.N. (1876–1956) on the ‘Sexual habits of the Adélie penguin’ was recently rediscovered at the Natural History Museum (NHM) at Tring. It was printed in 1915 but declined for publication with the official expedition reports. The account, based upon Levick's detailed field observations at Cape Adare (71°18′S, 170°09′E) during the course of the British Antarctic (Terra Nova) Expedition 1910, commented on frequency of sexual activity, autoerotic behaviour, and seemingly aberrant behaviour of young unpaired males and females including necrophilia, sexual coercion, sexual and physical abuse of chicks, non-procreative sex and homosexual behaviour. His observations were however accurate, valid and, with the benefit of hindsight, deserving of publication. Here we publish the pamphlet in its entirety, reinterpret selected observations and comment on its significance as a forgotten work by the pioneer of research on Adélie penguin Pygoscelis adeliae (Hombron and Jacquinot 1841) biology.
A redundant dynamic model of parallel robots for model-based control
Authors: Zubizarreta Asier , Cabanes Itziar , Marcos Marga , Pinto Charles
Published: May 2012

The use of extra sensors in parallel robots can provide an increase in control performance, making it possible to fully exploit the potential of these mechanisms. In this paper, a comprehensive redundant dynamic modelling procedure for the six-degree-of-freedom Gough platform is presented. The proposed methodology makes it possible to define the model in terms of all sensorized joint variables in order to implement redundant information-based control, and an example, the Extended Computed Torque Control (Extended CTC) approach, is developed. This, applied to parallel robots, ensures better dynamic performance than the traditional CTC approach. In order to validate dynamic modelling, a two-step procedure is used in this paper. First, the redundant dynamic model is validated by comparing its dynamic performance with the previous research in the field. Second, an exhaustive study is carried out that demonstrates the advantages of the redundant dynamic model when used in the Extended CTC approach.
On Fairness and Claims
Authors: TOMLIN PATRICK
Published: May 2012

Perhaps the best-known theory of fairness is John Broome's: that fairness is the proportional satisfaction of claims. In this article, I question whether claims are the appropriate focus for a theory of fairness, at least as Broome understands them in his current theory. If fairness is the proportionate satisfaction of claims, I argue, then the following would be true: fairness could not help determine the correct distribution of claims; fairness could not be used to evaluate the distribution of claims; fairness could not guide us in distributing claims (or unowed goods); we could not have a claim to be treated fairly; and we would not be wronged when treated unfairly. These entailments mean that it is questionable that fairness is concerned with claims in the way Broome suggests. At the very least, the relationship between fairness and claims appears to be more complex than the picture painted by Broome.