bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Activation of Syk in Peripheral Blood B Cells in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Potential Target for Abatacept Therapy
Authors: Iwata Shigeru , Nakayamada Shingo , Fukuyo Shunsuke , Kubo Satoshi , Yunoue Naoki , Wang Sheau‐Pey , Yoshikawa Maiko , Saito Kazuyoshi , Tanaka Yoshiya
Published: October 2014

Objective

B cells play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Although Syk functions as a key molecule in B cell receptor signaling, the pathologic role of Syk in B cells in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to assess the relevance of activation of Syk in B cells to the pathologic development of RA and to the responsiveness of RA patients to treatment with biologics.

Methods

Healthy subjects (n = 36) and patients with moderate or severe RA disease activity (n = 70) were studied. The phosphorylation of Syk (pSyk) in peripheral blood B cells was measured by flow cytometry, and its correlation with clinical characteristics and changes after administration of biologic agents was evaluated.

Results

Levels of pSyk in peripheral blood B cells were preferentially higher in patients with RA compared to healthy subjects. Patients with significantly higher pSyk levels were strongly positive for anti–citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs). High pSyk levels were not correlated with the severity of disease activity. Treatment with abatacept, but not tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, significantly reduced the levels of pSyk in RA peripheral blood B cells. Abatacept also significantly reduced the proportion of follicular helper T (Tfh) cells.

Conclusion

Levels of pSyk in peripheral blood B cells were significantly elevated in patients with RA, and these patients also exhibited strong positivity for ACPAs. These data suggest that abatacept seems to inhibit the phosphorylation of Syk in B cells, as well as the development of Tfh cells, thus highlighting the relevance of B cell–T cell interactions as a potential target of abatacept therapy in RA.
Antibiotic‐Killed Staphylococcus aureus Induces Destructive Arthritis in Mice
Authors: Ali Abukar , Zhu Xuefeng , Kwiecinski Jakub , Gjertsson Inger , Lindholm Catharina , Iwakura Yoichiro , Wang Xiaoyang , Lycke Nils , Josefsson Elisabet , Pullerits Rille , Jin Tao
Published: October 2014

Objective

Permanent reduction in joint function is a severe postinfectious complication in patients with Staphylococcus aureus septic arthritis. We undertook this study to determine whether this reduction in joint function might be caused by persistent joint inflammation after the adequate eradication of bacteria by antibiotics.

Methods

After intraarticular injection of cloxacillin‐killed S aureus into mouse knee joints, we investigated whether antibiotic‐killed S aureus induced joint inflammation and elucidated the molecular and cellular mechanisms of this type of arthritis.

Results

Intraarticular injection of antibiotic‐killed S aureus induced mild‐to‐moderate synovitis and bone erosions that lasted for a minimum of 14 days. Compared with wild‐type animals, mice deficient in tumor necrosis factor receptor type I (TNFRI), receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), or Toll‐like receptor 2 (TLR‐2) had a significantly reduced frequency and severity of synovitis. Combined depletion of monocytes and neutrophils also resulted in a significantly lower frequency of synovitis. Among bacterial factors, insoluble cell debris played a more important role than bacterial DNA or soluble components in inducing joint inflammation. Importantly, anti‐TNF therapy abrogated joint inflammation induced by antibiotic‐killed S aureus.

Conclusion

Antibiotic‐killed S aureus induced and maintained joint inflammation mediated through TLR‐2, TNFRI, and RAGE. The cross‐talk between neutrophils and monocytes is responsible for this type of arthritis. Anti‐TNF therapy might be used as a novel strategy, in combination with antibiotics, to treat staphylococcal septic arthritis.
Evidence of Cartilage Repair by Joint Distraction in a Canine Model of Osteoarthritis
Authors: Wiegant Karen , Intema Femke , van Roermund Peter M. , Barten‐van Rijbroek Angelique D. , Doornebal Arie , Hazewinkel Herman A. W. , Lafeber Floris P. J. G. , Mastbergen Simon C.
Published: October 2014

Objective

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disorder characterized by cartilage, bone, and synovial tissue changes that lead to pain and functional impairment. Joint distraction is a treatment that provides long‐term improvement in pain and function accompanied by cartilage repair, as evaluated indirectly by imaging studies and measurement of biochemical markers. The purpose of this study was to evaluate cartilage tissue repair directly by histologic and biochemical assessments after joint distraction treatment.

Methods

In 27 dogs, OA was induced in the right knee joint (groove model; surgical damage to the femoral cartilage). After 10 weeks of OA development, the animals were randomized to 1 of 3 groups. Two groups were fitted with an external fixator, which they wore for a subsequent 10 weeks (one group with and one without joint distraction), and the third group had no external fixation (OA control group). Pain/function was studied by force plate analysis. Cartilage integrity and chondrocyte activity of the surgically untouched tibial plateaus were analyzed 25 weeks after removal of the fixator.

Results

Changes in force plate analysis values between the different treatment groups were not conclusive. Features of OA were present in the OA control group, in contrast to the generally less severe damage after joint distraction. Those treated with joint distraction had lower macroscopic and histologic damage scores, higher proteoglycan content, better retention of newly formed proteoglycans, and less collagen damage. In the fixator group without distraction, similarly diminished joint damage was found, although it was less pronounced.

Conclusion

Joint distraction as a treatment of experimentally induced OA results in cartilage repair activity, which corroborates the structural observations of cartilage repair indicated by surrogate markers in humans.
On the Existence and Design of Functional Observers for LTI Systems, with Application to User Modeling
Authors: Eskandari Neda , Wang Z. Jane , Dumont Guy A.
Published: October 2014

Observing the states of a linear system has been an extensively studied topic over the past few decades. Different from full‐state observers and reduced‐order observers which are used to reconstruct the entire state space and the unmeasured states, respectively, functional observers are developed for applications in which only a linear combination of the states is required. For linear time‐invariant (LTI) systems with known and/or unknown inputs and assuming availability of the derivatives of the input and the output signals, we study the existence of a novel stable functional observer. Considering the output to be the extended vector of the output and its derivatives, we derive the existence conditions for a functional observer by making the estimation error asymptotically approach zero. The derived existence conditions are applicable to multi‐input multi‐output (MIMO) systems (e.g., with either known or unknown inputs, and with or without the derivatives of the signals being available). We also provide an estimate of the required observer order for the reconstruction of a desired functional and present how to design this functional observer by modifying certain current techniques. As an application, we apply the designed functional observer to model the stage of information comprehension in the user of a shared/human controlled system.
Evaluation of the likelihood of a selective CHK1 inhibitor (LY2603618) to inhibit CYP2D6 with desipramine as a probe substrate in cancer patients
Authors: Hynes Scott M. , Wickremsinhe Enaksha , Zhang Wei , Decker Rodney , Ott Jennifer , Chandler Jason , Mitchell Malcolm
Published: October 2014

LY2603618 is a selective inhibitor of deoxyribonucleic acid damage checkpoint kinase 1 (CHK1) and has been in development for the enhancement of chemotherapeutic agents. The study described was to assess the potential interaction between LY2603618 and cytochrome P450 isoform 2D6 (CYP2D6) substrate desipramine in patients with cancer. Before clinical investigation, in silico simulations (using Simcyp®) were conducted. An open‐label, two‐period, fixed‐sequence study was planned in 30 patients with advanced or metastatic cancers, in which a 50 mg oral dose of desipramine was administered alone and in combination with 275 mg of LY2603618 (i.v. infusion). An interim analysis was planned after 15 patients completed both periods. Ratios of geometric least squares means (LSMs) of primary pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters and 90% repeated confidence intervals (RCIs) between desipramine plus LY2603618 and desipramine alone were calculated. Lack of an interaction was declared if the 90% RCI fell between 0.8 and 1.25. The LSM ratios (90% RCI) for areas under the plasma concentration–time curve from time zero to tlast (AUC[0‐tlast]) and to infinity (AUC[0‐∞]) and maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) were 1.14 (1.04, 1.25), 1.09 (0.99, 1.21) and 1.16 (1.05, 1.29). In silico simulations were predictive of clinical results. Single doses of 275 mg LY2603618 administered with 50 mg desipramine were generally well tolerated. In conclusion, no clinically significant interaction was observed between LY2603618 and desipramine in patients with cancer. In silico predictions of clinical results demonstrated that mechanistic and physiologically based PK approaches may inform clinical study design in cancer patients. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interaction of Aβ(25–35) fibrillation products with mitochondria: Effect of small‐molecule natural products
Authors: Ghobeh Maryam , Ahmadian Shahin , Meratan Ali Akbar , Ebrahim‐Habibi Azadeh , Ghasemi Atiyeh , Shafizadeh Mahshid , Nemat‐Gorgani Mohsen
Published: October 2014

ABTRACT

The 25–35 fragment of the amyloid β (Aβ) peptide is a naturally occurring proteolytic by‐product that retains the pathophysiology of its larger parent molecule, whose deposition has been shown to involve mitochondrial dysfunction. Hence, disruption of Aβ(25–35) aggregates could afford an effective remedial strategy for Alzheimer's disease (AD). In the present study, the effect of a number of selected small‐molecule natural products (polyphenols: resveratrol, quercetin, biochanin A, and indoles: indole‐3‐acetic acid, indole‐3‐carbinol (I3C)) on Aβ(25–35) fibrillogenesis was explored under physiological conditions, and interaction of the resulting structures with rat brain mitochondria was investigated. Several techniques, including fluorescence, circular dichroism, and transmission electron microscopy were utilized to characterize the aggregation products, and possible mitochondrial membrane permeabilization was determined following release of marker enzymes. Results demonstrate the capacity of Aβ(25–35) fibrils to damage mitochondria and suggest how small molecules may afford protection. While I3C appeared more effective in inhibiting the fibrillation process, all natural products behaved similarly in destabilizing preformed aggregates. It is concluded that elucidation of such protection may provide important insights into the development of preventive and therapeutic agents for AD. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 102: 473–486, 2014.
Long-term outcomes following microwave ablation for liver malignancies
Authors: Leung U , Kuk D , D'Angelica M I , Kingham T P , Allen P J , DeMatteo R P , Jarnagin W R , Fong Y
Published: October 2014

Background

Microwave ablation has emerged as a promising treatment for liver malignancies, but there are scant long-term follow-up data. This study evaluated long-term outcomes, with a comparison of 915-MHz and 2·4-GHz ablation systems.

Methods

This was a retrospective review of patients with malignant liver tumours undergoing operative microwave ablation with or without liver resection between 2008 and 2013. Regional or systemic (neo)adjuvant therapy was given selectively. Local recurrence was analysed using competing-risk methods with clustering, and overall survival was determined from Kaplan–Meier curves.

Results

A total of 176 patients with 416 tumours were analysed. Colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) comprised 81·0 per cent of tumours, hepatocellular carcinoma 8·4 per cent, primary biliary cancer 1·7 per cent and non-CRLM 8·9 per cent. Median follow-up was 20·5 months. Local recurrence developed after treatment of 33 tumours (7·9 per cent) in 31 patients (17·6 per cent). Recurrence rates increased with tumour size, and were 1·0, 9·3 and 33 per cent for lesions smaller than 1 cm, 1–3 cm and larger than 3 cm respectively. On univariable analysis, the local recurrence rate was higher after ablation of larger tumours (hazard ratio (HR) 2·05 per cm; P < 0·001), in those with a perivascular (HR 3·71; P = 0·001) or subcapsular (HR 2·71; P = 0·008) location, or biliary or non-CRLM histology (HR 2·47; P = 0·036), and with use of the 2·4-GHz ablation system (HR 3·79; P = 0·001). Tumour size (P < 0·001) and perivascular position (P = 0·045) remained significant independent predictors on multivariable analysis. Regional chemotherapy was associated with decreased local recurrence (HR 0·49; P = 0·049). Overall survival at 4 years was 58·3 per cent for CRLM and 79·4 per cent for other pathology (P = 0·360).

Conclusion

Microwave ablation of liver malignancies, either combined or not combined with liver resection, and selective regional and systemic therapy resulted in good long-term survival. Local recurrence rates were low after treatment of tumours smaller than 3 cm in diameter, and those remote from vessels.
Rapid identif ication and comparative analysis of chemical constituents in herbal medicine Fufang decoction by ultra‐high‐pressure liquid chromatography coupled with a hybrid linear ion trap–high‐resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Cao Gang , Chen Xiaocheng , Wu Xin , Li Qinglin , Zhang Hongyan
Published: October 2014

This study was conducted to reveal the relation between herbal medicine Fufang decoction and a single drug in terms of material base. Da‐Cheng‐Qi decoction (DCQD) was used as a model. Ultrahigh‐pressure liquid chromatography coupled with a hybrid linear ion trap–high‐resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐LTQ‐Orbitrap) was applied to detect and identify the main chemical compounds. This technique was also employed to determine the different chemical components. Under optimized liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry conditions, 64 components, including iridoids, flavonoids, anthraquinones and coumarins, were separated and tentatively characterized in Da‐Cheng‐Qi decoction. After decoction, the contents of 18 compounds were markedly changed, and two components were no longer detected in Fufang decoction compared with single‐medicine decoction. The established method provided a good example for the rapid identification of complicated polar constituents in herbal medicine prescriptions. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
[(IPent)PdCl2(morpholine)]: A Readily Activated Precatalyst for Room‐Temperature, Additive‐Free Carbon–Sulfur Coupling
Authors: Farmer Jennifer L. , Pompeo Matthew , Lough Alan J. , Organ Michael G.
Published: October 2014

A series of new, easily activated NHC–PdII precatalysts featuring a trans‐oriented morpholine ligand were prepared and evaluated for activity in carbon‐sulfur cross‐coupling chemistry. [(IPent)PdCl2(morpholine)] (IPent=1,3‐bis(2,6‐di(3‐pentyl)phenyl)imidazol‐2‐ylidene) was identified as the most active precatalyst and was shown to effectively couple a wide variety of deactivated aryl halides with both aryl and alkyl thiols at or near ambient temperature, without the need for additives, external activators, or pre‐activation steps. Mechanistic studies revealed that, in contrast to other common NHC–PdII precatalysts, these complexes are rapidly reduced to the active NHC–Pd0 species at ambient temperature in the presence of KOtBu, thus avoiding the formation of deleterious off‐cycle PdII–thiolate resting states.
Kinetic Study of Heterogeneously Catalyzed Glucose Oxidation in a Stirred Cell
Authors: Ablasser Cornelia , Hilger Andreas , Hinrichsen Olaf
Published: October 2014

Liquid phase oxidation of glucose to gluconic acid using Bi promoted Pd catalysts was studied in a stirred cell. Gas‐liquid mass transfer limitations are observed at lower but not at higher rotational speeds. The conversion and the deactivation of the Pd catalyst depend on the O2 concentration in the liquid phase. With decreasing glucose concentration, the reaction rate decreases leading to higher oxygen concentration in the liquid, which deactivates the catalyst due to over‐oxidation. Severe mass transfer limitations even at low Pd loadings could be attributed to intraparticle or liquid‐to‐solid mass transfer.
Residues and Organic Contaminants in Agricultural Soils in Intensive Agricultural Areas of Spain: A Three Years Survey
Authors: Padilla‐Sánchez Juan A. , Romero‐González Roberto , Plaza‐Bolaños Patricia , Garrido Frenich Antonia , Martínez Vidal José L.
Published: October 2014

A three‐year study of the levels of pesticide residues and organic contaminants in agricultural soils has been carried out in an important intensive agricultural area in Spain. Although traditional farming practices are being replaced by integrated pest management programs (IPMs), extensive phytosanitary application and inadequate farm practices (e.g. burning of vegetable and plastic material) have been carried out during decades, and occurrence of residues and persistent pollutants was expected. The monitoring program was divided into three samplings (one per year), evaluating pesticides, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and polychlorinated biphenyls. In the first sampling, 38 agricultural soil samples were evaluated; multivariate analysis was used to select the most representative samples and continue the monitoring study. Then, the second and third samplings were performed to study the evolution of the concentration (including transformation products) of the compounds. Applying univariate and multivariate analysis, it was observed that PAHs (except anthracene and benzo[k]fluoranthene) were the most significant compounds, as well as some degradation products of banned pesticides (endosulfan ether, o,p′‐dichlorodiphenyldichloroethane and p,p′‐dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene). Finally, a reduction of the concentration of contaminants was observed along the three years sampling period, indicating that the improved practices used in the area, such as IPMs, are having the desired effect regarding the reduction of contaminants in soil.
An investigation of how the texture surface of a fabric influences its instrumental color
Authors: Luo Lin , Tsang Ka Man , Shen Hui‐Liang , Shao Si‐Jie , Xin John H.
Published: October 2014

In this article, the influence of texture surface of a fabric on its instrumental color is investigated. While former studies have found it is difficult to establish a quantitative relationships between texture of fabric and its instrumental color (color difference and color attributes, such as lightness, chroma, and hue), this article investigates from a theoretical and empirical perspective the interaction between texture and color. Eighty four knitted cotton yarn dyed fabric samples in four color centers and 21 texture structures were used in this study. It is revealed that fabric samples with different texture surfaces define a set of lines with identical direction in the reflectance space, and thus the normalized reflectance curves of these samples are identical. In the CIEXYZ space, tristimulus values of these fabric samples define a line, and thus their chromaticity coordinates are constant. In the CIELAB space, however, linearity is lost due to the non‐linear transformation from the CIEXYZ space to the CIELAB space. The finding of this article has the potential to discount the influence of texture of a fabric on its color. Experiments show that the influence of texture on color for samples in the four color centers can be reduced by 79, 55, 71, and 57%, respectively comparing to the real measured color difference. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 40, 472–482, 2015
Electronic Properties of Transition‐Metal‐Decorated Silicene
Authors: Lee Youngbin , Yun Kyung‐Han , Cho Sung Beom , Chung Yong‐Chae
Published: October 2014

The electronic properties of 3d transition metal (TM)‐decorated silicene were investigated by using density functional calculations in an attempt to replace graphene in electronic applications, owing to its better compatibility with Si‐based technology. Among the ten types of TM‐doped silicene (TM–silicene) studied, Ti‐, Ni‐, and Zn‐doped silicene became semiconductors, whereas Co and Cu doping changed the substrate to a half‐metallic material. Interestingly, in cases of Ti‐ and Cu‐doped silicene, the measured band gaps turned out to be significantly larger than the previously reported band gap in silicene. The observed band‐gap openings at the Fermi level were induced by breaking the sublattice symmetry caused by two structural changes, that is, the Jahn–Teller distortion and protrusion of the TM atom. The present calculation of the band gap in TM–silicene suggests useful guidance for future experiments to fabricate various silicene‐based applications such as a field‐effect transistor, single‐spin electron source, and nonvolatile magnetic random‐access memory.
MicroRNA miR‐7 contributes to the control of Drosophila wing growth
Authors: Aparicio Ricardo , Simoes Da Silva Carolina J. , Busturia Ana
Published: October 2014

Background: The control of organ growth is critical for correct animal development. From flies to mammals, the mechanisms regulating growth are conserved and the role of microRNAs in this process is emerging. The conserved miR‐7 has been described to control several aspects of development. Results: Here, we have analyzed the function of miR‐7 during Drosophila wing development. We found that loss of miR‐7 function results in a reduction of wing size and produces wing cells that are smaller than wild type cells. We also found that loss of miR‐7 function interferes with the cell cycle by affecting the G1 to S phase transition. Further, we present evidence that miR‐7 is expressed in the wing imaginal discs and that the inactivation of miR‐7 increases the expression of Cut and Senseless proteins in wing discs. Finally, our results show that the simultaneous inactivation of miR‐7 and either cut, Notch, or dacapo rescues miR‐7 loss of function wing size reduction phenotype. Conclusions: The results from this work reveal, for the first time, that miR‐7 functions to regulate Drosophila wing growth by controlling cell cycle phasing and cell mass through its regulation of the expression of dacapo and the Notch signaling pathway. Developmental Dynamics 244:21–30, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Alteration of key hyporheic functions through biological and physical clogging along a nutrient and fine‐sediment gradient
Authors: Hartwig Melanie , Borchardt Dietrich
Published: October 2014

The hyporheic zone bears key hydro‐ecological functions such as hydrological connectivity of surface and groundwater ecosystems and biogeochemical regulation of substance dynamics. These functions are controlled by the sediment permeability that in turn is affected by biological and physical clogging. A number of conceptual models have been developed on the interactions and feedbacks between these functionalities; surprisingly, comprehensive field data are scarce. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess these functions and their vulnerability along a stressor gradient of nutrient and fine‐sediment input at riffle scale. Three sampling sites along the Kharaa River (Northern Mongolia) were selected that represented conditions from being unaffected, affected by biological clogging and impaired by physical clogging. A significant impact on the hydrological connectivity was detected, as the vertical downward flux and the solute penetration depth decreased along the reaches. Simultaneously, the heterogeneity in biogeochemical patterns and the vertical extent of the oxygen gradients declined. Whilst biological clogging was apparently unstable and the biofilm supported the hyporheic organic carbon pool, it revealed to affect the two functions to a lesser extent when compared with physical clogging. In contrast, physical clogging seemed to be more permanent and restricted microbial metabolism to the uppermost centimetres, thus decreasing the active sediment depth. Moreover, fine‐sediment particles enhanced the sediment surface area, thereby creating a high respiration potential that resulted in high values of community respiration and subsequent oxygen depletion. Concluding, the control of fine‐sediment emissions has to be a priority issue in river restoration and catchment management. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mechanical circulatory support improves diabetic control in patients with advanced heart failure
Authors: Mohamedali Burhan , Yost Gardner , Bhat Geetha
Published: October 2014

Aims

Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are increasingly being used as life‐saving therapy for end‐stage advanced heart failure. Diabetes is prevalent in advanced heart failure patients. In this study, we sought to investigate the effects of mechanical circulatory support on diabetic parameters with LVAD implantation.

Methods and results

In this retrospective study, data on 244 LVAD recipients between 2006 and 2013 were reviewed. Patients without history of diabetes, death within the first 3 months after LVAD implantation, heart transplantation after LVAD, or LVAD explantation were excluded from the study. Baseline demographic, laboratory, and echocardiographic information prior to LVAD placement and 6‐month follow‐up were obtained. Laboratory values indicative of diabetic control were found to improve significantly at 6 months post‐LVAD implantation (glycated haemoglobin, 7.2 vs. 6.1%, P < 0.0001; serum fasting glucose, 141 vs. 122 mg/dL, P = 0.003; mean daily insulin dose, 30 vs. 24 IU/day, P = 0.02). Additionally, the use of oral hypoglycaemic medication was successfully discontinued in six patients at 6 months post‐LVAD implantation.

Conclusions

Long‐term LVAD therapy is associated with improvement in diabetic control which is probabvly due to improvements in cardiac output and normalization of biochemical derangements resulting from diabetes.
Assemblies of Alkaline‐Earth‐Metal Ions with o‐Tetramethyl‐Substituted Cucurbituril in the Presence of the Cadmium Tetrachloride Anion
Authors: Zhou Jia‐Jia , Yu Xin , Zhao Ying‐Chun , Xiao Xin , Zhang Yun‐Qian , Xue Sai‐Feng , Tao Zhu , Liu Jing‐Xin , Zhu Qian‐Jiang
Published: October 2014

o‐Tetramethyl‐substituted cucurbituril (o‐TMeQ[6]), a polydentate ligand, has been synthesized and isolated in a controlled manner by using a dimer of dimethyl‐substituted glycoluril and a dimer of unsubstituted glycoluril. Coordination assemblies have been investigated by reactions between alkaline earth cations and o‐TMeQ[6] in the presence of [CdCl4]2–, a structure inducer, in HCl aqueous solution. X‐ray diffraction analysis revealed that o‐TMeQ[6] coordinates with Ca2+ or Sr2+ and forms centrosymmetric tetranuclear assemblies in the presence of [CdCl4]2–. [CdCl4]2– typically produces the “honeycomb effect” by forming honeycomb‐like frameworks, which assist metal ions in coordinating to o‐TMeQ[6]. The driving forces of this effect are the “outer‐surface interactions” of cucurbit[n]urils.
Catalytic Behaviour of Transition Metal Cations In Electrosynthesis and Growth of Nanostructure Conducting Polypyrrole Films On/Between the Passive Cu Interdigital Electrodes: Application In Gas Sensors
Authors: Alizadeh Naader , Ghoorchian Arash
Published: October 2014

The electrosynthesis of nanostructured polypyrrole (PPy) on copper interdigital electrodes (Cu‐IDEs) surfaces was performed by anodic oxidation of pyrrole in the presence of oxalic acid in aqueous solution (passivation technique) by potentiostatic method. Some divalent transition metal ions (Fe(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II)) as catalyst can be used to polymers growth on/between spacing between passive Cu‐IDEs by using potentiostatic technique. The morphology of the conducting films was examined by field emission scanning electron microscope, indicating a dependence of the film morphology to catalyst type. The PPy films on Cu‐IDEs were used to investigate the properties of the gas sensing ability.
Macroporous cryogel based spin column with immobilized concanavalin A for isolation of glycoproteins
Authors: Krenkova Jana , Cesla Petr , Foret Frantisek
Published: October 2014

In this work we have developed a hydrophilic poly(hydroxyethyl methacrylate‐co‐poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate) cryogel placed in the centrifugal filter device. The composition of the polymerization mixture as well as the polymerization conditions were optimized in order to prepare a material with bimodal pore size distribution with 20–50 μm flow through macropores and submicrometer pores in the polymer walls. The optimized, mechanically stable, highly porous, material was used for spin column lectin chromatography. The surface of the monolithic scaffold was activated by epichlorohydrin and used for immobilization of concanavalin A to provide the affinity supports for selective isolation of glycoproteins containing high mannose glycan structures. The performance of the developed lectin modified cryogels was evaluated by analyses of glycoprotein mixtures. The efficiency and selectivity of the affinity supports were confirmed by MALDI‐MS analysis.
Galanthamine biosynthesis in plant in vitro systems
Authors: Berkov Strahil , Ivanov Ivan , Georgiev Vasil , Codina Carles , Pavlov Atanas
Published: October 2014

The Amaryllidaceae alkaloid galanthamine (Gal) is a long‐acting, selective, reversible, and competitive acetylcholinesterase inhibitor used for the treatment of early‐ to mid‐stage Alzheimer's disease, poliomyelitis, and other neurological diseases. Currently, Gal is produced by extraction from plants such as daffodils (Narcissus cultivar Carlthon), snowflake (Leucojum aestivum), “red‐tubed lily” (Lycoris radiata), and Ungernia victoria, and alternatively by chemical synthesis. Due to the increased demand by the generic pharmaceutical companies and the limited availability of plant sources, the biosynthesis of Gal by plant in vitro systems has been considered as an alternative approach for its sustainable production. The present article reviews the state of the art of in vitro Gal biosynthesis including growth regulators, medium components, culture conditions, elicitation, and bioreactor systems. It may be used as a starting point for further studies in this area leading to a progress in biotechnological production of this valuable alkaloid.
Application of subspace identification technique to long‐term seismic response monitoring of structures
Authors: Loh Chin‐Hsiung , Chao Shu‐Hsien , Weng Jian‐Huang , Wu Tzu‐Hsiu
Published: October 2014

This paper addresses the issue of structural system identification using earthquake‐induced structural response. The proposed methodology is based on the subspace identification algorithm to perform identification of structural dynamic characteristics using input–output seismic response data. Incorporated with subspace identification algorithm, a scheme to remove spurious modes is also used to identify real system poles. The efficiency of the proposed method is shown by the analysis of all measurement data from all measurement directly. The recorded seismic response data of three structures (one 7‐story RC building, one midisolation building, and one isolated bridge), under Taiwan Strong Motion Instrumentation Program, are analyzed during the past 15 years. The results present the variation of the identified fundamental modal frequencies and damping ratios from all the recorded seismic events that these three structures had encountered during their service life. Seismic assessment of the structures from the identified system dynamic characteristics during the period of their service is discussed. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Differential contributions of microglial and neuronal IKKβ to synaptic plasticity and associative learning in alert behaving mice
Authors: Kyrargyri Vasiliki , Vega‐Flores Germán , Gruart Agnès , Delgado‐García José M. , Probert Lesley
Published: October 2014

Microglia are CNS resident immune cells and a rich source of neuroactive mediators, but their contribution to physiological brain processes such as synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory is not fully understood. In this study, we used mice with partial depletion of IκB kinase β, the main activating kinase in the inducible NF‐κB pathway, selectively in myeloid lineage cells (mIKKβKO) or excitatory neurons (nIKKβKO) to measure synaptic strength at hippocampal Schaffer collaterals during long‐term potentiation (LTP) and instrumental conditioning in alert behaving individuals. Resting microglial cells in mIKKβKO mice showed less Iba1‐immunoreactivity, and brain IL‐1β mRNA levels were selectively reduced compared with controls. Measurement of field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSPs) evoked by stimulation of the CA3‐CA1 synapse in mIKKβKO mice showed higher facilitation in response to paired pulses and enhanced LTP following high frequency stimulation. In contrast, nIKKβKO mice showed normal basic synaptic transmission and LTP induction but impairments in late LTP. To understand the consequences of such impairments in synaptic plasticity for learning and memory, we measured CA1 fEPSPs in behaving mice during instrumental conditioning. IKKβ was not necessary in either microglia or neurons for mice to learn lever‐pressing (appetitive behavior) to obtain food (consummatory behavior) but was required in both for modification of their hippocampus‐dependent appetitive, not consummatory behavior. Our results show that microglia, through IKKβ and therefore NF‐κB activity, regulate hippocampal synaptic plasticity and that both microglia and neurons, through IKKβ, are necessary for animals to modify hippocampus‐driven behavior during associative learning. GLIA 2015;63:549–566
EBI2 regulates intracellular signaling and migration in human astrocyte
Authors: Rutkowska Aleksandra , Preuss Inga , Gessier Francois , Sailer Andreas W. , Dev Kumlesh K.
Published: October 2014

The G protein‐coupled receptor EBI2 (Epstein–Barr virus‐induced gene 2) is activated by 7α, 25‐dihydroxycholesterol (7α25HC) and plays a role in T cell‐dependant antibody response and B cell migration. Aberrant EBI2 signaling is implicated in a range of autoimmune disorders however its role in the CNS remains unknown. Here we characterize the functional role of EBI2 in GLIA cells using primary human astrocytes and EBI2 knockout animals. We find human and mouse astrocytes express EBI2 and the enzymes necessary for synthesis and degradation of 7α25HC. In astrocytes, EBI2 activation stimulates ERK phosphorylation, Ca2+ signaling and induces cellular migration. These results, for the first time, demonstrate a role for EBI2 in astrocyte function and suggest that modulation of this receptor may be beneficial in neuroinflammatory disorders. GLIA 2015;63:341–351
Expression of Gls and Gls2 glutaminase isoforms in astrocytes
Authors: Cardona Carolina , Sánchez‐Mejías Elisabeth , Dávila José C. , Martín‐Rufián Mercedes , Campos‐Sandoval José A. , Vitorica Javier , Alonso Francisco J. , Matés José M. , Segura Juan A. , Norenberg Michael D. , Rama Rao Kakulavarapu V. , Jayakumar Arumugan R. , Gutiérrez Antonia , Márquez Javier
Published: October 2014

The expression of glutaminase in glial cells has been a controversial issue and matter of debate for many years. Actually, glutaminase is essentially considered as a neuronal marker in brain. Astrocytes are endowed with efficient and high capacity transport systems to recapture synaptic glutamate which seems to be consistent with the absence of glutaminase in these glial cells. In this work, a comprehensive study was devised to elucidate expression of glutaminase in neuroglia and, more concretely, in astrocytes. Immunocytochemistry in rat and human brain tissues employing isoform‐specific antibodies revealed expression of both Gls and Gls2 glutaminase isozymes in glutamatergic and GABAergic neuronal populations as well as in astrocytes. Nevertheless, there was a different subcellular distribution: Gls isoform was always present in mitochondria while Gls2 appeared in two different locations, mitochondria and nucleus. Confocal microscopy and double immunofluorescence labeling in cultured astrocytes confirmed the same pattern previously seen in brain tissue samples. Astrocytic glutaminase expression was also assessed at the mRNA level, real‐time quantitative RT‐PCR detected transcripts of four glutaminase isozymes but with marked differences on their absolute copy number: the predominance of Gls isoforms over Gls2 transcripts was remarkable (ratio of 144:1). Finally, we proved that astrocytic glutaminase proteins possess enzymatic activity by in situ activity staining: concrete populations of astrocytes were labeled in the cortex, cerebellum and hippocampus of rat brain demonstrating functional catalytic activity. These results are relevant for the stoichiometry of the Glu/Gln cycle at the tripartite synapse and suggest novel functions for these classical metabolic enzymes. GLIA 2015;63:365–382
Characterization of Novel Aminobenzylcantharidinimides and Related Imides by Proton NMR Spectra and Their Effects on NO Induction
Authors: Tseng Ing‐Jy , Lin Pen‐Yuan , Sheu Shiow‐Yunn , Tung Wan‐Ni , Lin Ching‐Tung , Lin Mei‐Hsiang
Published: October 2014

Various acidic anhydrides including cantharidin were converted into corresponding aminobenzylcantharidinimide 3a and analogous imides 3b∼k (at the ortho, meta, and para positions) with 35%∼87% yields by reacting with aminobenzylamines and triethylamine. The two methyl side chains of cantharidinimides 3ao, 3am, and 3ap, and related imides had more than two chiral centers; the lone pair of electrons of nitrogen displayed a different chemical shift and coupling constant in H‐NMR spectra when the amino group of benzylamine was in the ortho position. These cantharidinimides had parent aniline, pyridine, and naphthalene plane structures, and the primary amine nucleophilicity and basicity might reflect the inductive electron’s negative effect on chemical shifts. We prepared cantharidinimides by heating the reactants cantharidin 1a, aliphatic and aromatic acid anhydrides, primary benzylic amines, and aniline derivatives to ca. 200 °C with 3 mL of dry toluene, and 1∼2 mL of triethylamine in high‐pressure sealed tubes (Buchi glasuster 0032) to produce cantharidinimides and their analogues in good yields. The para‐aminobenzylic imides showed greater inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) synthesis by NO synthase (NOS) than did ortho‐ and meta‐aminobenzylic imides. Compound 3fp, para‐aminobenzylic norbonane‐imide, had the most potent effect on inducible NOS among the tested compounds and showed 35% inhibition.
Electrochemical conversion of sulfur dioxide with a rotating cylinder electrode working as anode or cathode
Authors: Fornés Juan P , González Gabriel A , Bisang José M
Published: October 2014

BACKGROUND

A batch electrochemical reactor with a rotating cylinder electrode is analysed for the transformation of sulfur dioxide into either sulfuric acid or colloidal sulfur.

RESULTS

Potentiostatic experiments carried out at 30 °C and 500 rpm with 5 g L−1 SO2 in 0.5 mol L−1 H2SO4 conclude that −0.7 V, against SCE, represents an appropriate potential for the sulfur production at a 316 L stainless steel cathode. The figures of merit were: 0.15 kg m−3 h−1 space time yield and 39.7 kWh kg−1 for specific energy consumption. Galvanostatic experiments at 30 °C and 1000 rpm with three‐dimensional electrodes identify graphite felt as a promising anodic material. Using a gas phase of 5% SO2 in nitrogen and 0.5 mol L−1 H2SO4 as supporting electrolyte, a macrokinetic current density of 100 mA cm−2 represents an appropriate value, being the space time yield 7.58 kg m−3 h−1 with 2.86 kWh kg−1 specific energy consumption.

CONCLUSION

An electrochemical reactor with a rotating cylinder electrode showed a good performance for the production of colloidal sulfur. Sulfur dioxide was also converted into sulfuric acid including a separator in a reactor with a three‐dimensional rotating cylinder anode and co‐current gas and liquid flows. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
It is time for justice: How time changes what we know about justice judgments and justice effects
Authors: Fortin Marion , Cojuharenco Irina , Patient David , German Hayley
Published: October 2014

Organizational justice is an important determinant of workplace attitudes, decisions, and behaviors. However, understanding workplace fairness requires not only examining what happens but also when it happens, in terms of justice events, perceptions, and reactions. We organize and discuss findings from 194 justice articles with temporal aspects, selected from over a thousand empirical justice articles. By examining temporal aspects, our findings enrich and sometimes challenge the answers to three key questions in the organizational justice literature relating to (i) when individuals pay attention to fairness, including specific facets, (ii) how fairness judgments form and evolve, and (iii) how reactions to perceived (in)justice unfold. Our review identifies promising avenues for empirical work and emphasizes the importance of developing temporal theories of justice. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Facile residue analysis of recent and prehistoric cook stones using handheld Raman spectrometry
Authors: Short Laura , Thoms Alston V. , Cao Bin , Sinyukov Alexander M. , Joshi Amitabh , Scully Rob , Sanders Virgil , Voronine Dmitri V.
Published: October 2014

We performed food residue analysis of fire‐cracked rock (FCR) from experimental and prehistoric earth ovens using a handheld Raman spectrometry. Progress in modern optical technology provides a facile means of rapid non‐destructive identification of residue artifacts from archaeological sites. For this study spectral signatures were obtained on sotol (Dasylirion spp.) experimentally baked in an earth oven as well as sotol residue on an experimentally used processing tool. Inulin was a major residue component. The portable handheld Raman spectrometer also detected traces of inulin on experimental boiling stones used to boil commercially obtained inulin. The Raman spectra of inulin and sotol may be useful as signatures of some wild plant residues in archaeology. Spectroscopic analysis of millennia‐old FCR from prehistoric archaeological sites in Fort Hood, TX revealed the presence of residues whose further identification requires improvement of current optical methods. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of stage of lactation and year season on composition of mares' colostrum and milk and method and time of storage on vitamin C content in mares' milk
Authors: Markiewicz‐Kęszycka Maria , Czyżak‐Runowska Grażyna , Wójtowski Jacek , Jóźwik Artur , Pankiewicz Radosław , Łęska Bogusława , Krzyżewski Józef , Strzałkowska Nina , Marchewka Joanna , Bagnicka Emilia
Published: October 2014

BACKGROUND

Mares' milk is becoming increasingly popular in Western Europe. This study was thus aimed at investigating the impact of stage of lactation and season on chemical composition, somatic cell count and some physicochemical parameters of mares' colostrum and milk, and at developing a method for the determination of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in mares' milk and to determine its content in fresh and stored milk.

RESULTS

The analysis conducted showed an effect of the stage of lactation on contents of selected chemical components and physicochemical parameters of mares' milk. In successive lactation periods levels of fat, cholesterol, energy value, citric acid and titratable acidity decreased, whereas levels of lactose and vitamin C, as well as the freezing point, increased. Analysis showed that milk produced in autumn (September, October, November) had a higher freezing point and lower concentrations of total solids, protein, fat, cholesterol, citric acid and energy value in comparison to milk produced in summer (June, July, August). Mares' milk was characterised by low somatic cell count throughout lactation. In terms of vitamin C stability the most advantageous method of milk storage was 6‐month storage of lyophilised milk.

CONCLUSION

In general, the results confirmed that mares' milk is a raw material with a unique chemical composition different from that produced by other farm animals. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Highly selective isolation and purification of heme proteins in biological samples using multifunctional magnetic nanospheres
Authors: Liu Yating , Li Yan , Wei Yun
Published: October 2014

Magnetic particles with suitable surface modification are capable of binding proteins selectively, and magnetic separations have advantages of rapidity, convenience, and high selectivity. In this paper, new magnetic nanoparticles modified with imidazolium ionic liquid (Fe3O4@SiO2@ILs) were successfully fabricated. N‐Methylimidazolium was immobilized onto silica‐coated magnetic nanoparticles via γ‐chloropropyl modification as a magnetic nanoadsorbent for heme protein separation. The particle size was about 90 nm without significant aggregation during the preparation process. Hemoglobin as one of heme proteins used in this experiment was compared with other nonheme proteins. It has been found that the magnetic nanoparticles can be used for more rapid, efficient, and specific adsorption of hemoglobin with a binding capacity as high as 5.78 mg/mg. In comparison with other adsorption materials of proteins in the previous reports, Fe3O4@SiO2@ILs magnetic nanoparticles exhibit the excellent performance in isolation of heme proteins with higher binding capacity and selectivity. In addition, a short separation time makes the functionalized nanoparticles suitable for purifying unstable proteins, as well as having other potential applications in a variety of biomedical fields.
Heat‐shrink tubing as a solid‐phase microextraction coating for the enrichment and determination of phthalic acid esters
Authors: Luo Xi , He Chengxia , Zhang Feifang , Wang Hailong , Yang Bingcheng , Liang Xinmiao
Published: October 2014

Heat‐shrink tubing, which shrinks in one plane only (its diameter) when heated, commonly used for sealing protection in electrical engineering, was found to be able to function as a solid‐phase microextraction coating. Its utility was demonstrated for the determination of phthalic acid esters in an aqueous solution combined with high‐performance liquid chromatography equipped with a UV absorbance detector. The preparation procedure was rather simple and only ∼10 min was needed. The fiber cost is extremely low (∼10 cent each). The parameters affecting the extraction were optimized. Heat‐shrink tubing fiber exhibited a significant enrichment effect for the three examined phthalic acid esters and up to 931‐fold enrichment factor was obtained. The limit of detection was <10 μg/L for all analytes. The operation repeatability and fiber‐to‐fiber reproducibility were 1.2–8.3 and 5.4–9.1%, respectively. It was successfully applied for the analysis of bottled drinking water with recoveries ranging from 90.1–100.5%.