bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanochemical Sensing: A Biomimetic Sensing Strategy
Authors: Shrestha Prakash , Mandal Shankar , Mao Hanbin
Published: April 2015

Existing biosensors employ two major components: analyte recognition and signal transduction. Although specificity is achieved through analyte recognition, sensitivity is usually enhanced through a chemical amplification stage that couples the two main units in a sensor. Although highly sensitive, the extra chemical amplification stage complicates the sensing protocol. In addition, it separates the two elements spatiotemporally, reducing the real‐time response of the biosensor. In this review, we discuss the new mechanochemical biosensors that employ mechanochemical coupling strategies to overcome these issues. By monitoring changes in the mechanical properties of a single‐molecule template upon analyte binding, single‐molecule sensitivity is reached. As chemical amplification becomes unnecessary in this single‐molecule mechanochemical sensing (SMMS) strategy, real‐time sensing is achieved.
Theoretical Computer‐Aided Mutagenic Study on the Triple Green Fluorescent Protein Mutant S65T/H148D/Y145F
Authors: Armengol Pau , Gelabert Ricard , Moreno Miquel , Lluch José M.
Published: April 2015

Green fluorescent protein (GFP) mutant S65T/H148D has been proposed to host a photocycle that involves an excited‐state proton transfer between the chromophore (Cro) and the Asp148 residue and takes place in less than 50 fs without a measurable kinetic isotope effect. It has been suggested that the interaction between the unsuspected Tyr145 residue and the chromophore is needed for the ultrafast sub‐50 fs rise in fluorescence. To verify this, we have performed a computer‐aided mutagenic study to introduce the additional mutation Y145F, which eliminates this interaction. By means of QM/MM molecular dynamics simulations and time‐dependent density functional theory studies, we have assessed the importance of the Cro–Tyr145 interaction and the solvation of Asp148 and shown that in the triple mutant S65T/H148D/Y145F a significant loss in the ultrafast rise of the Stokes‐shifted fluorescence should be expected.
Coordination‐Resolved Spectrometrics of Local Bonding and Electronic Dynamics of Au Atomic Clusters, Solid Skins, and Oxidized Foils
Authors: Yu Wang , Bo Maolin , Huang Yongli , Wang Yan , Li Can , Sun Chang Q.
Published: April 2015

By using combination of bond‐order–length–strength (BOLS) correlation, the tight‐binding (TB) approach, and zone‐selective photoelectron spectroscopy (ZPS), we were able to resolve local bond relaxation and the associated 4f7/2 core‐level shift of Au atomic clusters, Au(100, 110, 111) skins, and Au foils exposed to ozone for different lengths of time. In addition to quantitative information, such as local bond length, bond energy, binding‐energy density, and atomic cohesive energy, the results confirm our predictions that bond‐order deficiency shortens and stiffens the bond between undercoordinated atoms, which results in local densification and quantum entrapment of bonding electrons. The entrapment perturbs the Hamiltonian, and hence, shifts the core‐level energy accordingly. ZPS also confirms that oxidation enhances the effect of atomic undercoordination on the positive 4f7/2 energy shift, with the associated valence electron polarization contributing to the catalytic ability of undercoordinated Au atoms.
Solventless Formation of G‐Quartet Complexes Based on Alkali and Alkaline Earth Salts on Au(111)
Authors: Zhang Chi , Wang Likun , Xie Lei , Kong Huihui , Tan Qinggang , Cai Liangliang , Sun Qiang , Xu Wei
Published: April 2015

Template cations have been extensively employed in the formation, stabilization and regulation of structural polymorphism of G‐quadruplex structures in vitro. However, the direct addition of salts onto solid surfaces, especially under ultra‐high‐vacuum (UHV) conditions, to explore the feasibility and universality of the formation of G‐quartet complexes in a solventless environment has not been reported. By combining UHV‐STM imaging and DFT calculations, we have shown that three different G‐quartet‐M (M: Na/K/Ca) complexes can be obtained on Au(111) using alkali and alkaline earth salts as reactants. We have also identified the driving forces (intra‐quartet hydrogen bonding and electrostatic ionic bonding) for the formation of these complexes and quantified the interactions involved. Our results demonstrate a novel route to fabricate G‐quartet‐related complexes on solid surfaces, providing an alternative feasible way to bring metal elements to surfaces for constructing metal–organic systems.
Trainee Therapists' Experiences of Supervision During Training: A Meta‐synthesis
Authors: Wilson Hannah M. N. , Davies Jenny S. , Weatherhead Stephen
Published: April 2015

Purpose

Supervision is typically mandatory for therapists in training and plays an important role in their professional development. A number of qualitative studies have considered specific aspects of supervision. This systematic review aimed to synthesize these studies' findings and explore the experience and impact of supervision for trainee therapists.

Methods

A systematic search of the literature was conducted, and inclusion/exclusion criteria were applied. This led to a sample of 15 qualitative studies, with which a meta‐synthesis was conducted.

Results

The meta‐synthesis led to four key concepts: supervision as a learning opportunity, the supervisory relationship, power in supervision and the impact of supervision. These themes explored helpful and unhelpful aspects of supervision, including some concerns regarding the evaluation of supervision.

Conclusions

Supervision can effectively support trainee therapists in their personal and professional development. However, it can also lead to feelings of distress and self‐doubt. Supervisors need to consider the power differential within supervision and attend to different factors within the supervisory relationship. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message

Supervision can encourage personal and professional development, but it can also have a detrimental impact on trainee therapists' well‐being, and consequently their clinical work and clients' experiences.

Supervisees may not disclose unhelpful events or impacts from supervision, for fear of negative evaluation.

Evaluation of supervisors should be facilitated and encouraged, to maintain good practice.
Detection of small abnormal B‐Lymphoblast populations at diagnosis of chronic myelogenous leukemia, BCR‐ABL1+: Incidence, phenotypic features, and clinical implications
Authors: Vrotsos Elena , Gorgan Maria , DiGiuseppe Joseph A.
Published: April 2015

Background

According to the 2008 World Health Organization (WHO) Classification of Tumors of the Haematopoietic and Lymphoid Tissues, the finding of B lymphoblasts in the blood or bone marrow of a patient with chronic myelogenous leukemia, BCR‐ABL1+ (CML) should raise a concern for progression of the disease to B‐lymphoblastic blast phase. Data addressing the incidence and phenotypic features of abnormal B lymphoblasts in CML, and whether the detection of B lymphoblasts inexorably heralds blast phase in CML, though, are limited.

Methods

We reviewed a consecutive series of patients with newly diagnosed CML who had undergone bone marrow examination with flow cytometric immunophenotyping. Polychromatic immunophenotyping data were reviewed, and clinical follow‐up data were obtained.

Results

A precursor B‐cell population with an abnormal composite immunophenotype was detected in 4 of 36 (11.1%) diagnostic bone marrow samples, at levels ranging from 0.01% to 0.30% of viable single cells acquired. The most common phenotypic aberrations were abnormally bright expression of CD10 and CD19 (seen in four and three cases, respectively), and abnormally dim expression of CD38 (seen in four cases). All three patients with adequate clinical follow‐up have achieved and maintained a deep or major molecular response with a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, and none has progressed to B‐lymphoblastic blast phase (follow‐up duration: 17–46 months).

Conclusions

In chronic‐phase CML, a small (<0.5%) abnormal B‐lymphoblast population is present in a significant minority of diagnostic bone marrow samples, but does not inevitably herald progression to B‐lymphoblastic blast phase. © 2015 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Factors affecting urinary excretion of testosterone metabolites conjugated with cysteine
Authors: Fabregat Andreu , Marcos Josep , Segura Jordi , Ventura Rosa , Pozo Oscar J.
Published: April 2015

The implementation of the athlete steroidal passport in doping control analysis aims to detect intra‐individual changes in the steroid profile related to the abuse of anabolic steroids. In this context, the study of intrinsic variations associated with each marker is of utmost importance. In the present work, the influence of several factors in the excretion of the recently reported testosterone metabolites conjugated with cysteine (Δ1‐AED; 1,4‐androstadien‐3,17‐dione, Δ6‐AED; 4,6‐androstadien‐3,17‐dione, Δ6‐T; 4,6‐androstadien‐17β‐ol‐3‐one, and Δ15‐AD; 15‐androsten‐3,17‐dione) is evaluated for the first time. Degradation experiments at 37 °C proved that, although the cysteinyl moiety is released, the variation for urinary Δ1‐AED/Δ6‐AED, Δ1‐AED/Δ6‐T ratios is less than 30%. Moreover, freeze/thaw cycle testing resulted in RSDs values below 15% for all the analytes. Regarding infradian variability, moderate variations (below 40%) were observed. Additionally, notable alterations in the excretion of these compounds have been observed in the earliest stages of pregnancy. UGT2B17 polymorphism, responsible for the low T/E ratio found in some population, does not influence the excretion of cysteinyl compounds whereas the intake of exogenous substances (alcohol or 5α‐reductase inhibitors) dramatically affects their excretion. The urinary concentrations of Δ1‐AED, Δ6‐AED, and Δ15‐AD decreased (<50 %) after the ethanol intake, whereas after the administration of dutasteride, an important increase was observed for the concentrations of Δ6‐AED, Δ6‐T and Δ15‐AD. Overall, the presented data describes the stability of the urinary cysteinyl steroids under the influence of many factors, proving their potential as suitable parameters to be included in the steroidal module of the athlete′s biological passport. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prognostic role of cardiac power index in ambulatory patients with advanced heart failure
Authors: Grodin Justin L. , Mullens Wilfried , Dupont Matthias , Wu Yuping , Taylor David O. , Starling Randall C. , Tang W. H. Wilson
Published: April 2015

Background

Cardiac pump function is often quantified by left ventricular ejection fraction by various imaging modalities. As the heart is commonly conceptualized as a hydraulic pump, cardiac power describes the hydraulic function of the heart. We aim to describe the prognostic value of resting cardiac power index (CPI) in ambulatory patients with advanced heart failure.

Methods and results

We calculated CPI in 495 sequential ambulatory patients with advanced heart failure who underwent invasive haemodynamic assessment with longitudinal follow‐up of adverse outcomes (all‐cause mortality, cardiac transplantation, or ventricular assist device placement). The median CPI was 0.44 W/m2 (interquartile range 0.37, 0.52). Over a median of 3.3 years, there were 117 deaths, 104 transplants, and 20 ventricular assist device placements in our cohort. Diminished CPI (<0.44 W/m2) was associated with increased adverse outcomes [hazard ratio (HR) 2.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.8–3.1, P < 0.0001). The prognostic value of CPI remained significant after adjustment for age, gender, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, cardiac index, pulmonary vascular resistance, left ventricular ejection fraction, and creatinine [HR 1.5, 95% CI 1.03–2.3, P = 0.04). Furthermore, CPI can risk stratify independently of peak oxygen consumption (HR 2.2, 95% CI 1.4–3.4, P = 0.0003).

Conclusion

Resting cardiac power index provides independent and incremental prediction in adverse outcomes beyond traditional haemodynamic and cardio‐renal risk factors.
Dioxomolybdenum(VI) and ‐tungsten(VI) Complexes with Multidentate Aminobisphenol Ligands as Catalysts for Olefin Epoxidation
Authors: Dupé Antoine , Hossain Md. Kamal , Schachner Jörg A. , Belaj Ferdinand , Lehtonen Ari , Nordlander Ebbe , Mösch‐Zanetti Nadia C.
Published: April 2015

The synthesis of four molybdenum and tungsten complexes bearing tetradentate tripodal amino bisphenolate ligands with either hydroxyethylene (1a) or hydroxyglycolene (1b) substituents is reported. The molybdenum dioxo complexes [MoO2L] (L = 2a, 2b) and tungsten complexes [WO2L] (3a, 3b) were synthesized using [MoO2(acac)2] and [W(eg)3] (eg = 1,2‐ethanediolato, ethylene glycolate), respectively, as precursors. All complexes were characterized by spectroscopic means as well as by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analyses. The latter reveal, in all cases, hexacoordinate complexes in which the hydrogen atom of the hydroxy group is involved in hydrogen bonding with one of the metal oxo groups. In the case of the glycol substituent, the ether oxygen atom is coordinated to the metal whereas the hydroxy group remains uncoordinated. The complexes were tested as catalysts in the epoxidation of cyclooctene under eco‐friendly conditions, using an aqueous solution of H2O2 as the oxidant and dimethyl carbonate (DMC) as solvent or neat conditions, as substitutes for chlorinated solvents. Molybdenum complexes 2a and 2b showed good catalytic activity using H2O2 without added solvent, and tungsten complexes 3a and 3b showed very high activity in the epoxidation of cyclooctene using H2O2 and DMC as solvents.
Bis(phosphinimino)amide Supported Borondihydride and Heteroleptic Dihalo Compounds of Group 13
Authors: Jaiswal Kuldeep , Prashanth Billa , Bawari Deependra , Singh Sanjay
Published: April 2015

The reaction of tetraphenyldiphosphazane (Ph2P)2NH with mesityl azide 2,4,6‐Me3C6H2‐N3 affords a new [N,N′] chelating ligand, [HN(Ph2PN(2,4,6‐Me3C6H2))2] (LH). The ligand can be easily deprotonated by using nBuLi or Li[N(SiMe3)2] in Et2O to yield [{N(Ph2PN(2,4,6‐Me3C6H2))2}Li·OEt2] (1). The reaction of LH with AlMe3 and BH3·SMe2, respectively, gives the corresponding mononuclear complexes [{N(Ph2PN(2,4,6‐Me3C6H2))2}AlMe2] (2) and a rare borondihydride [{N(Ph2PN(2,4,6‐Me3C6H2))2}BH2] (3). Similarly, reaction of 1 with the trihalides, MX3, of group 13 elements afford the corresponding dihalo complexes, [{N(Ph2PN(2,4,6‐Me3C6H2))2}MX2] [M = B, X = F (4); M = Al, X = Cl (5); M = Ga, X = Cl (6); M = In, X = Br (7)]. All the complexes reported in this work have been isolated in good yields and are expected to serve as useful synthons in a number of reactions. The solid‐state structure of LH and 1–7 have been investigated by single‐crystal X‐ray structural analysis.
Pd/Pivalic Acid Mediated Direct Arylation of 2‐Pyrones and Related Heterocycles
Authors: Pardo Leticia M. , Prendergast Aisling M. , Nolan Marie‐T. , Ó Muimhneacháin Eoin , McGlacken Gerard P.
Published: April 2015

Direct arylation represents a favourable alternative to traditional cross‐coupling reactions and has found widespread use with simple aryls and robust heterocycles. Herein a direct arylation protocol has been optimised and applied to more delicate, privileged biological motifs. The intramolecular direct arylation of 2‐pyrones, 2‐coumarins, 2‐pyridones and 2‐quinolones occurs in very good to excellent yields using a Pd0 source and pivalic acid as a crucial additive. Preliminary mechanistic investigations were also carried out.
Performance analysis of space modulation techniques over α − μ and κ − μ fading channels with imperfect channel estimation
Authors: Badarneh Osamah S. , Mesleh Raed
Published: April 2015

In this paper, the performance analysis of spatial modulation and space shift keying multiple‐input multiple‐output techniques over generalised α − μ and κ − μ fading channels with imperfect channel state information at the receiver is presented. In particular, the pair‐wise error probability (PEP) of the systems under study is derived. The PEP expression jointly considers the envelope and the phase distributions of the fading channels. The obtained PEP is then used to derive an upper bound closed‐form expression for the average bit error rate. The influence of the fading parameters (i.e. α,κ and μ) and the channel estimation error on the system performance are analysed and discussed through representative numerical examples. The correctness of the conducted analysis is validated by means of Monte‐Carlo simulations. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of lysozyme‐combined antibacterial system to reduce sulfur dioxide and to stabilizeItalianRiesling ice wine during aging process
Authors: Chen Kai , Han Shun‐yu , Zhang Bo , Li Min , Sheng Wen‐jun
Published: April 2015

For the purpose ofSO2reduction and stabilizing ice wine, a new antibacterial technique was developed and verified in order to reduce the content of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and simultaneously maintain protein stability during ice wine aging process. Hazardous bacterial strain (lactic acid bacteria,LAB) and protein stability of Italian Riesling ice wine were evaluated in terms of different amounts of lysozyme,SO2, polyphenols, and winepHby single‐factor experiments. Subsequently, a quadratic rotation‐orthogonal composite design with four variables was conducted to establish the multiple linear regression model that demonstrated the influence of different treatments on synthesis score betweenLABinhibition and protein stability of ice wine. The results showed that, synthesis score can be influenced by lysozyme andSO2concentrations on an extremely significant level (P < 0.01). Furthermore, the lysozyme‐combined antibacterial system, which is specially designed for ice wine aging, was optimized step by step by response surface methodology and ridge analysis. As a result, the optimal proportion should be control in ice wine as follows: 179.31 mg L−1lysozyme, 177.14 mg L−1SO2, 0.60 g L−1polyphenols, and 4.01 ice winepH. Based on this system, the normalized synthesis score betweenLABinhibition and protein stability can reach the highest point 0.920. Finally, by the experiments of verification and comparison, it was indicated that lysozyme‐combined antibacterial system, which was a practical and prospective method to reduceSO2concentration and effectively prevent contamination from hazardousLAB, can be used to stabilize ice wine during aging process.
Relationship between the fractal dimension of orthopyroxene distribution and the temperature in mantle xenoliths
Authors: Nkono Collin , Féménias Olivier , Lesne Annick , Mercier Jean‐Claude , Ngounouno Fadimatou Yamgouot , Demaiffe Daniel
Published: April 2015

As rock textures reflect the physical conditions and the mechanisms of formation of the rocks, new approaches are used for improving texture analyses, both qualitatively and quantitatively. Pioneer work has recently boosted interest in fractal analysis for quantifying and correlating patterns. Fractal‐like patterns relate to a degree of multiscale organization, and fractal dimensions (FD) and their potential variations can be used to infer the physical conditions of rock formation at various scales of observation. Here, we characterize quantitatively the shape and distribution of orthopyroxene grains in ultramafic xenoliths in terms of FD and their relation with temperature of equilibration. Fractal analysis has been applied to several populations of mantle xenoliths: 7 xenoliths collected in the vicinity of Pico Santa Isabel on Bioko Island, an alkaline basaltic volcano in oceanic domain (Gulf of Guinea, Equatorial Atlantic), 9 samples from Sangilen, in the Agardag alkaline lamprophyre dyke (Russia), and 11 samples form Śnieżnik (Lutynia, Poland), in the continental domain. Fractal analysis has been conducted to characterize the degree of complexity of the petrographic textures: it is indeed known that large values of FD are associated to more complex textures. The correlation here observed between the orthopyroxene fractal dimension and the temperature of equilibration suggests that FD captures a significant textural feature directly related to the temperature (i.e. generated by a temperature‐controlled process). The significant difference in the FD–T correlation observed for the continental and oceanic mantle domains suggests that the mechanical and rheological behaviour is distinct in the oceanic and continental lithospheres. These first promising results should be confirmed by analysing other mantle suites of rocks in different geodynamic settings. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Behavioral Economic Model of Alcohol Advertising and Price
Authors: Saffer Henry , Dave Dhaval , Grossman Michael
Published: April 2015

This paper presents a new empirical study of the effects of televised alcohol advertising and alcohol price on alcohol consumption. A novel feature of this study is that the empirical work is guided by insights from behavioral economic theory. Unlike the theory used in most prior studies, this theory predicts that restriction on alcohol advertising on TV would be more effective in reducing consumption for individuals with high consumption levels but less effective for individuals with low consumption levels. The estimation work employs data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth, and the empirical model is estimated with quantile regressions. The results show that advertising has a small positive effect on consumption and that this effect is relatively larger at high consumption levels. The continuing importance of alcohol taxes is also supported. Education is employed as a proxy for self‐regulation, and the results are consistent with this assumption. The key conclusion is that restrictions on alcohol advertising on TV would have a small negative effect on drinking, and this effect would be larger for heavy drinkers. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
How Business Cycles Affect the Healthcare Sector: A Cross‐country Investigation
Authors: Cleeren Kathleen , Lamey Lien , Meyer Jan‐Hinrich , De Ruyter Ko
Published: April 2015

The long‐term relationship between the general economy and healthcare expenditures has been extensively researched, to explain differences in healthcare spending between countries, but the midterm (i.e., business cycle) perspective has been overlooked. This study explores business cycle sensitivity in both public and private parts of the healthcare sector across 32 countries. Responses to the business cycle vary notably, both across spending sources and across countries. Whereas in some countries, consumers and/or governments cut back, in others, private and/or public healthcare buyers tend to spend more. We also assess long‐term consequences of business cycle sensitivity and show that public cost cutting during economic downturns deflates the mortality rates, whereas private cut backs increase the long‐term growth in total healthcare expenditures. Finally, multiple factors help explain variability in cyclical sensitivity. Private cost cuts during economic downturns are smaller in countries with a predominantly publicly funded healthcare system and more preventive public activities. Public cut backs during contractions are smaller in countries that rely more on tax‐based resources rather than social health insurances. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Follicular dendritic cell sarcoma of the head and neck: Case report, literature review, and pooled analysis of 97 cases
Authors: Pang John , Mydlarz Wojciech K. , Gooi Zhen , Waters Kevin M. , Bishop Justin , Sciubba James J. , Kim Young J. , Fakhry Carole
Published: April 2015

Background

Follicular dendritic cell sarcoma (FDCS) is a rare lymphoid neoplasm presenting in the head and neck. There are no pooled analyses of head and neck FDCS cases in the English language literature.

Methods

A MEDLINE and PubMed review of cases from 1978 to February 2014 was performed. Demographics, clinicopathologic data, and outcomes were summarized.

Results

We presented 2 patients and analyzed 97 cases. The mean age was 42.7 years (SD = 16.3 years). Outcomes were available for 76 patients. Tumors ≤4 cm had better disease‐free survival (63% vs 28% at 5 years; p = .0282). Locoregional recurrence was significantly less likely with surgery and radiation compared to surgery alone (15% vs 45%; p = .019) and in patients receiving a neck dissection (10% vs 43%; p = .046).

Conclusion

This pooled analysis provides the largest sample size of FDCS of the head and neck to date and suggests that radiation and neck dissection may be beneficial to locoregional oncologic control. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E2241–E2249, 2016
Irrigation Water Management in a Mediterranean Greenhouse District: Irrigation Adequacy Assessment
Authors: Sánchez José A. , Reca Juan , Martínez Juan
Published: April 2015

The sustainability of greenhouse production in semi‐arid regions in the Mediterranean basin depends on the availability of water resources. However, the increasing demand for water has caused environmental and water availability concerns. The main objective of this work is to assess irrigation adequacy in an irrigation district located in southern Spain with major water resource problems in terms of both quantity and quality.

Two resolution levels were considered: crop and farm. Relative irrigation supply (RIS) index was calculated for a wide sample of crops and farms in the area over the course of four consecutive agricultural seasons.

An overall RIS value of 1.12 was obtained. This value indicates that irrigation water exceeded net irrigation needs and, consequently, moderate leaching fractions were applied. However, a high RIS variability was observed. The effect of several factors was statistically analysed to explain this variability.

The average water supply to farms was slightly higher than that applied in similar greenhouse districts, possibly due to higher irrigation water salinity. The high variability in the annual relative water supply (ARIS) to the farms confirmed that the main source of variability was farmer management decisions. Irrigation performance in this area could be improved with a proper extension of good irrigation practices. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Effect of Fragmentation in Trading on Market Quality in the UK Equity Market
Authors: Boneva Lena , Linton Oliver , Vogt Michael
Published: April 2015

We investigate the effects of fragmentation in equity markets on the quality of trading outcomes in a panel of FTSE stocks over the period 2008–2011. This period coincided with a great deal of turbulence in the UK equity markets, which had multiple causes that need to be controlled for. To achieve this, we use the common correlated effects estimator for large heterogeneous panels. We extend this estimator to quantile regression to analyse the whole conditional distribution of market quality. We find that both fragmentation in visible order books and dark trading that is offered outside the visible order book lower volatility. But dark trading increases the variability of volatility, while visible fragmentation has the opposite effect, in particular at the upper quantiles of the conditional distribution. The transition from a monopolistic to a fragmented market is non‐monotonic with respect to the degree of fragmentation. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of combined treatment with immunoadsorption and membrane filtration on plasma coagulation—Results of a randomized controlled crossover study
Authors: Biesenbach Peter , Eskandary Farsad , Ay Cihan , Wiegele Marion , Derfler Kurt , Schaden Eva , Haslacher Helmuth , Oberbauer Rainer , Böhmig Georg A.
Published: April 2015

The combined use of immunoadsorption (IA) and membrane filtration (MF) may markedly enhance removal of IgM and complement component C1q, supporting its use as an element of recipient desensitization in antibody‐incompatible transplantation. However, coagulation factor removal may contribute to altered hemostasis, posing a risk of bleeding in the perioperative setting. This secondary endpoint analysis of standard coagulation assays and rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM®) was performed in the context of a randomized controlled crossover study designed to assess the effect of combined IA (GAM‐146‐peptide) and MF on levels of ABO antigen‐specific IgM. Fourteen patients with autoimmune disorders were randomized to a single treatment with IA+MF followed by IA alone, or vice versa. MF was found to markedly enhance fibrinogen depletion (57% vs. 28% median decrease after IA alone, P < 0.001), whereby four patients showed post‐treatment fibrinogen concentrations below 100 mg dL−1. In support of a critical contribution of fibrinogen depletion to impaired coagulation, extrinsically activated ROTEM® analysis revealed a marked reduction in fibrinogen‐dependent clot formation upon IA+MF (59% median decrease in FIBTEM mean clot firmness (MCF) as compared to 24% after IA alone, P < 0.001). Moreover, the addition of MF led to a substantial prolongation of activated partial thromboplastin time, possibly due to depletion of macromolecular coagulation factors contributing to intrinsically activated coagulation. Our study demonstrates substantial effects of combined IA+MF on clot formation, which may be mainly attributable to fibrinogen depletion. We suggest that the use of combined apheresis in the setting of transplant surgery may necessitate a careful monitoring of coagulation. J. Clin. Apheresis 31:29–37, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nitric Oxide Mediates Bleomycin‐induced Angiogenesis and Pulmonary Fibrosis via Regulation of VEGF
Authors: Iyer Anand Krishnan V. , Ramesh Vani , Castro Carlos A. , Kaushik Vivek , Kulkarni Yogesh M. , Wright Clayton A. , Venkatadri Rajkumar , Rojanasakul Yon , Azad Neelam
Published: April 2015

Pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive lung disease hallmarked by increased fibroblast proliferation, amplified levels of extracellular matrix deposition and increased angiogenesis. Although dysregulation of angiogenic mediators has been implicated in pulmonary fibrosis, the specific rate‐limiting angiogenic markers involved and their role in the progression of pulmonary fibrosis remains unclear. We demonstrate that bleomycin treatment induces angiogenesis, and inhibition of the central angiogenic mediator VEGF using anti‐VEGF antibody CBO‐P11 significantly attenuates bleomycin‐induced pulmonary fibrosis in vivo. Bleomycin‐induced nitric oxide (NO) was observed to be the key upstream regulator of VEGF via the PI3k/Akt pathway. VEGF regulated other important angiogenic proteins including PAI‐1 and IL‐8 in response to bleomycin exposure. Inhibition of NO and VEGF activity significantly mitigated bleomycin‐induced angiogenic and fibrogenic responses. NO and VEGF are key mediators of bleomycin‐induced pulmonary fibrosis, and could serve as important targets against this debilitating disease. Overall, our data suggests an important role for angiogenic mediators in the pathogenesis of bleomycin‐induced pulmonary fibrosis. J. Cell. Biochem. 116: 2484–2493, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Human Milk MicroRNA and Total RNA Differ Depending on Milk Fractionation
Authors: Alsaweed Mohammed , Hepworth Anna R. , Lefèvre Christophe , Hartmann Peter E. , Geddes Donna T. , Hassiotou Foteini
Published: April 2015

MicroRNA have been recently discovered in human milk signifying potentially important functions for both the lactating breast and the infant. Whilst human milk microRNA have started to be explored, little data exist on the evaluation of sample processing, and analysis to ensure that a full spectrum of microRNA can be obtained. Human milk comprises three main fractions: cells, skim milk, and lipids. Typically, the skim milk fraction has been measured in isolation despite evidence that the lipid fraction may contain more microRNA. This study aimed to standardize isolation of microRNA and total RNA from all three fractions of human milk to determine the most appropriate sampling and analysis procedure for future studies. Three different methods from eight commercially available kits were tested for their efficacy in extracting total RNA and microRNA from the lipid, skim, and cell fractions of human milk. Each fraction yielded different concentrations of RNA and microRNA, with the highest quantities found in the cell and lipid fractions, and the lowest in skim milk. The column‐based phenol‐free method was the most efficient extraction method for all three milk fractions. Two microRNAs were expressed and validated in the three milk fractions by qPCR using the three recommended extraction kits for each fraction. High expression levels were identified in the skim and lipid milk factions for these microRNAs. These results suggest that careful consideration of both the human milk sample preparation and extraction protocols should be made prior to embarking upon research in this area. J. Cell. Biochem. 116: 2397–2407, 2015. © 2015 The Authors. Journal of Cellular Biochemistry Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
CYP2D6 predicted metabolizer status and safety in adult patients with attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder participating in a large placebo‐controlled atomoxetine maintenance of response clinical trial
Authors: Fijal Bonnie A. , Guo Yingying , Li Si G. , Ahl Jonna , Goto Taro , Tanaka Yoko , Nisenbaum Laura K. , Upadhyaya Himanshu P.
Published: April 2015

Atomoxetine, which is indicated for treatment of attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), is predominantly metabolized by genetically polymorphic cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6). Based on identified CYP2D6 genotypes, individuals can be categorized into 4 phenotypic metabolizer groups as ultrarapid, extensive, intermediate, and poor. Previous studies have focused on observed differences between poor and extensive metabolizers, but it is not well understood whether the safety profile of intermediate metabolizers differs from that of ultrarapid and extensive metabolizers. This study compared safety and tolerability among the different CYP2D6 metabolizer groups in the 12‐week open‐label phase of an atomoxetine study in adult patients with ADHD. Genotyping identified 1039 patients as extensive/ultrarapid metabolizers, 780 patients as intermediate metabolizers, and 117 patients as poor metabolizers. Common (≥5% frequency) treatment‐emergent adverse events did not significantly differ between extensive/ultrarapid and intermediate metabolizers (odds ratios were <2.0 or >0.5). Poor metabolizers had higher frequencies of dry mouth, erectile dysfunction, hyperhidrosis, insomnia, and urinary retention compared with the other metabolizer groups. There were no significant differences between extensive/ultrarapid and intermediate metabolizers in changes from baseline in vital signs. These results suggest that data from CYP2D6 intermediate and extensive/ultrarapid metabolizers can be combined when considering safety analyses related to atomoxetine.
Soil Microbial Functions After Forest Fires Affected by the Compost Quality
Authors: Guénon René , Gros Raphaël
Published: April 2015

Composts are frequently used to restore various degraded lands especially after fire. We investigated how different organic amendments after frequent wildfires can affect soil microbial functions. We crossed three times since fire (1, 5 and 18 years) with three different compost qualities (i.e. young, intermediate and old). After 5 months, alkaline phosphatase increased by the intermediate compost in early post‐fire chronosequence (1 and 5 year after fires). This increase was confirmed 10 months after amendment with the three composts but only for the most recent fire. The net nitrification increased 5 months after amendment under both the young and intermediate composts in the 5 and 18 years of time since fire plots. This increase was confirmed 10 months after amendment with the intermediate and old compost treatments for the 1 and 5 years of time since fire plots. In this case, compost amendment even induced positive nitrification rates for the 5 years of time since fire plots. Moreover, older composts affected catabolic diversity after 5 months, whereas at the same time, we detected an increase in biomass of cultivable bacteria. Urease activity gradually increased with the age of composts after 10 months. β‐glucosidase activity increased under the young and intermediate composts and did not change with the older. This study suggests compost addition can result in an artificial acceleration of the nutrient cycles. Thus organic amendments in burned ecosystems should be reasoned according to both the step of the Mediterranean post‐fire recovery and the quality of organic amendments. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Water Whitening Reduction in Waterborne Pressure‐Sensitive Adhesives Produced with Polymerizable Surfactants
Authors: Aguirreurreta Ziortza , Dimmer Jörg‐Alexander , Willerich Immanuel , de la Cal José C. , Leiza Jose R.
Published: April 2015

Water whitening resistance of pressure‐sensitive adhesives obtained from high solids content acrylic dispersions is studied. The effect of the pH and surfactant system on the water whitening of the final films is investigated. The pH used throughout the polymerization process and the pH at which the final latex is adjusted just before the application have a substantial influence on the water whitening resistance. The performance of films obtained from latexes stabilized using conventional surfactant is compared to that of latexes stabilized using polymerizable surfactant or polymerizable stabilizer. In the films containing the conventional anionic surfactant, the water whitening phenomenon is affected by two counteracting mechanisms: latex stability and excess of surfactant in the aqueous phase. However, when polymerizable surfactants or stabilizer are used, due to their incorporation into the polymer backbone, no effect of the surfactant excess is observed leading to films with superior performance increasing their concentration.
Examples of Finsler metrics with special curvature properties
Authors: Liu Huaifu , Mo Xiaohuan
Published: April 2015

We give a lot of new Finsler metrics of quadratic Weyl curvature which are non‐trivial in the sense that these metrics are not of Weyl type. We also manufacture new Weyl metrics.
Contrasting spatial patterns and ecological attributes of soil bacterial and archaeal taxa across a landscape
Authors: Constancias Florentin , Saby Nicolas P. A. , Terrat Sébastien , Dequiedt Samuel , Horrigue Wallid , Nowak Virginie , Guillemin Jean‐Philippe , Biju‐Duval Luc , Chemidlin Prévost‐Bouré Nicolas , Ranjard Lionel
Published: April 2015

Even though recent studies have clarified the influence and hierarchy of environmental filters on bacterial community structure, those constraining bacterial populations variations remain unclear. In consequence, our ability to understand to ecological attributes of soil bacteria and to predict microbial community response to environmental stress is therefore limited. Here, we characterized the bacterial community composition and the various bacterial taxonomic groups constituting the community across an agricultural landscape of 12 km2, by using a 215 × 215 m systematic grid representing 278 sites to precisely decipher their spatial distribution and drivers at this scale. The bacterial and Archaeal community composition was characterized by applying 16S rRNA gene pyrosequencing directly to soil DNA from samples. Geostatistics tools were used to reveal the heterogeneous distribution of bacterial composition at this scale. Soil physical parameters and land management explained a significant amount of variation, suggesting that environmental selection is the major process shaping bacterial composition. All taxa systematically displayed also a heterogeneous and particular distribution patterns. Different relative influences of soil characteristics, land use and space were observed, depending on the taxa, implying that selection and spatial processes might be differentially but not exclusively involved for each bacterial phylum. Soil pH was a major factor determining the distribution of most of the bacterial taxa and especially the most important factor explaining the spatial patterns of α‐Proteobacteria and Planctomycetes. Soil texture, organic carbon content and quality were more specific to a few number of taxa (e.g., β‐Proteobacteria and Chlorobi). Land management also influenced the distribution of bacterial taxa across the landscape and revealed different type of response to cropping intensity (positive, negative, neutral or hump‐backed relationships) according to phyla. Altogether, this study provided valuable clues about the ecological behavior of soil bacterial and archaeal taxa at an agricultural landscape scale and could be useful for developing sustainable strategies of land management.
Development of a Chemical Methodology for the Preparation of Peptide Thioesters Applicable to Naturally Occurring Peptides Using a Sequential Quadruple Acyl Transfer System
Authors: Tsuda Yusuke , Shigenaga Akira , Tsuji Kohei , Denda Masaya , Sato Kohei , Kitakaze Keisuke , Nakamura Takahiro , Inokuma Tsubasa , Itoh Kohji , Otaka Akira
Published: April 2015

Peptide thioesters are very useful in protein chemistry, and chemistry‐ and biochemistry‐based protocols are used for the preparation of thioesters. Among such protocols, only a few biochemistry‐based approaches have been use for naturally occurring peptide sequences. The development of chemistry‐based protocols applicable to natural sequences remains a challenge, and the development of such methods would be a major contribution to protein science. Here, we describe the preparation of peptide thioesters using innovative methodology that features nickel(II)‐mediated alcoholysis of a naturally occurring peptide sequence, followed by O−N and N−S acyl transfers. This protocol involves sequential quadruple acyl transfer, termed SQAT. Notably, the SQAT system consists of sequential chemical reactions that allow naturally occurring peptide sequences to be converted to thioesters without requiring an artificial chemical unit.
Hillslope‐Scale Variability in Seasonal Frost Depth and Soil Water Content Investigated by GPR on the Southern Margin of the Sporadic Permafrost Zone on the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Ma Yingzhao , Zhang Yinsheng , Zubrzycki Sebastian , Guo Yanhong , Farhan Suhaib Bin
Published: April 2015

Ground temperature data show that permafrost has recently been absent at a site on the southern edge of the sporadic permafrost zone on the Tibetan Plateau (TP). A detailed survey of seasonal frost depth (SFD) and soil water content (SWC) here is significant for understanding the hydrological response to thawing permafrost. However, little is known about the spatial heterogeneity of SFD and SWC at the hillslope scale in this vulnerable permafrost region. Thus, high‐frequency ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) was applied to a field site that varied in terms of topography (slope, aspect and elevation) and surface environments (vegetation cover and stream presence). The GPR data and accompanying field observations of gravimetric water content and frost depth revealed a spatial variation at the hillslope scale in SFD and SWC, and indicated that topography, vegetation and stream distribution significantly influence the patterns observed. The average SFD was much deeper along the north‐facing slope, compared to the south‐facing slope in early May, and its thickness varied considerably with altitude along each slope. An increase in the extent of vegetation cover correlated with decreasing SFD. The SWC at shallow depth was higher along the south‐facing slope than along the north‐facing slope at the beginning of the thawing period. For slopes of both aspects, the SWC vertical profiles exhibited a similar variability, with SWC decreasing with depth, but at different rates. This study demonstrates that GPR provides an appropriate method for quantifying SWC at the hillslope scale on the TP. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The performance of fine‐grained and coarse‐grained elastic network models and its dependence on various factors
Authors: Na Hyuntae , Song Guang
Published: April 2015

In a recent work we developed a method for deriving accurate simplified models that capture the essentials of conventional all‐atom NMA and identified two best simplified models: ssNMA and eANM, both of which have a significantly higher correlation with NMA in mean square fluctuation calculations than existing elastic network models such as ANM and ANMr2, a variant of ANM that uses the inverse of the squared separation distances as spring constants. Here, we examine closely how the performance of these elastic network models depends on various factors, namely, the presence of hydrogen atoms in the model, the quality of input structures, and the effect of crystal packing. The study reveals the strengths and limitations of these models. Our results indicate that ssNMA and eANM are the best fine‐grained elastic network models but their performance is sensitive to the quality of input structures. When the quality of input structures is poor, ANMr2 is a good alternative for computing mean‐square fluctuations while ANM model is a good alternative for obtaining normal modes. Proteins 2015; 83:1273–1283. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Crystal structure of the protein At3g01520, a eukaryotic universal stress protein‐like protein from arabidopsis thaliana in complex with AMP
Authors: Kim Do Jin , Bitto Eduard , Bingman Craig A. , Kim Hyun‐Jung , Han Byung Woo , Phillips George N.
Published: April 2015

Members of the universal stress protein (USP) family are conserved in a phylogenetically diverse range of prokaryotes, fungi, protists, and plants and confer abilities to respond to a wide range of environmental stresses. Arabidopsis thaliana contains 44 USP domain‐containing proteins, and USP domain is found either in a small protein with unknown physiological function or in an N‐terminal portion of a multi‐domain protein, usually a protein kinase. Here, we report the first crystal structure of a eukaryotic USP‐like protein encoded from the gene At3g01520. The crystal structure of the protein At3g01520 was determined by the single‐wavelength anomalous dispersion method and refined to an R factor of 21.8% (Rfree = 26.1%) at 2.5 Å resolution. The crystal structure includes three At3g01520 protein dimers with one AMP molecule bound to each protomer, comprising a Rossmann‐like α/β overall fold. The bound AMP and conservation of residues in the ATP‐binding loop suggest that the protein At3g01520 also belongs to the ATP‐binding USP subfamily members. Proteins 2015; 83:1368–1373. © 2015 The Authors. Proteins: Structure, Function, and Bioinformatics Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lewis acid catalysed methylation of N‐(9H‐fluoren‐9‐yl)methanesulfonyl (Fms) protected lipophilic α‐amino acid methyl esters
Authors: Leggio Antonella , Alò Danila , Belsito Emilia Lucia , Di Gioia Maria Luisa , Romio Emanuela , Siciliano Carlo , Liguori Angelo
Published: April 2015

This work reports an efficient Lewis acid catalysed N‐methylation procedure of lipophilic α‐amino acid methyl esters in solution phase. The developed methodology involves the use of the reagent system AlCl3/diazomethane as methylating agent and α‐amino acid methyl esters protected on the amino function with the (9H‐fluoren‐9‐yl)methanesulfonyl (Fms) group. The removal of Fms protecting group is achieved under the same conditions to those used for Fmoc removal. Thus the Fms group can be interchangeable with the Fmoc group in the synthesis of N‐methylated peptides using standard Fmoc‐based strategies. Finally, the absence of racemization during the methylation reaction and the removal of Fms group were demonstrated by synthesising a pair of diastereomeric dipeptides. Copyright © 2015 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.