bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Osteophytes, Enthesophytes, and High Bone Mass: A Bone‐Forming Triad With Potential Relevance in Osteoarthritis
Authors: Hardcastle Sarah A. , Dieppe Paul , Gregson Celia L. , Arden Nigel K. , Spector Tim D. , Hart Deborah J. , Edwards Mark H. , Dennison Elaine M. , Cooper Cyrus , Williams Martin , Davey Smith George , Tobias Jon H.
Published: June 2014

Objective

Previous studies of skeletal remains have suggested that both enthesophytes and osteophytes are manifestations of an underlying bone‐forming tendency. A greater prevalence of osteophytes has been observed among individuals with high bone mass (HBM) compared with controls. This study was undertaken to examine the possible interrelationships between bone mass, enthesophytes, and osteophytes in a population of individuals with extreme HBM.

Methods

Cases of HBM (defined according to bone mineral density [BMD] Z scores on dual x‐ray absorptiometry) from the UK‐based HBM study were compared with a control group comprising unaffected family members and general population controls from the Chingford and Hertfordshire cohort studies. Pelvic radiographs from cases and controls were pooled and evaluated, in a blinded manner, by a single observer, who performed semiquantitative grading of the radiographs for the presence and severity of osteophytes and enthesophytes (score range 0–3 for each). Logistic regression analysis was used to identify significant associations, with a priori adjustment for age, sex, and body mass index.

Results

In this study, 226 radiographs from HBM cases and 437 radiographs from control subjects were included. Enthesophytes (grade ≥1) and moderate enthesophytes (grade ≥2) were more prevalent in HBM cases compared with controls (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 3.00 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.96–4.58], P < 0.001 for any enthesophyte; adjusted OR 4.33 [95% CI 2.67–7.02], P < 0.001 for moderate enthesophytes). In the combined population of cases and controls, the enthesophyte grade was positively associated with BMD at both the total hip and lumbar spine (adjusted P for trend < 0.001). In addition, a positive association between osteophytes and enthesophytes was observed; for each unit increase in enthesophyte grade, the odds of any osteophyte being present were increased >2‐fold (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Strong interrelationships were observed between osteophytes, enthesophytes, and HBM, which may be helpful in defining a distinct subset of patients with osteoarthritis characterized by excess bone formation.
Mortality Associated With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in France Assessed by Multiple‐Cause‐of‐Death Analysis
Authors: Thomas Guillemette , Mancini Julien , Jourde‐Chiche Noémie , Sarlon Gabrielle , Amoura Zahir , Harlé Jean‐Robert , Jougla Eric , Chiche Laurent
Published: June 2014

Objective

To assess the mortality profile of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients in France using multiple‐cause‐of‐death analysis.

Methods

Data were collected between 2000 and 2009 in the French Epidemiological Center for the Medical Causes of Death database, and death certificates issued upon the death of an adult for whom SLE was an underlying cause of death (UCD) or a non–underlying cause of death (NUCD) were evaluated using multiple‐cause‐of‐death analysis. Sex, age, sex ratio, standardized mortality rates, as well as frequency of the various causes of death were assessed, at both a national and a regional level. For the main causes of death, the observed number of deaths in relation to the expected number of deaths (O:E ratio) (standardized for age and sex) was calculated.

Results

During the study period, 1,593 deaths related to SLE were identified. The mean ± SD age at death was 63.5 ± 18.4 years and the sex ratio (female:male) was 3.5. The mean standardized mortality rate was 3.2 per 1 million people (range 2.7–4.1). When SLE was the UCD (n = 637), the main NUCDs were cardiovascular diseases (49.5%), infectious diseases (24.5%), and renal failure (23.2%). When SLE was an NUCD (n = 956), the most common UCDs were cardiovascular diseases (35.7%), neoplasms (13.9%), and infectious diseases (10.3%). The overall O:E ratio was >1 for infectious and cardiovascular diseases and renal failure (especially among people <40 years of age for the latter 2 causes), but was <1 for neoplasms.

Conclusion

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death associated with SLE in France.
Increased Production of Interleukin‐17 Over Interleukin‐10 by Treg Cells Implicates Inducible Costimulator Molecule in Experimental Spondyloarthritis
Authors: Araujo Luiza M. , Fert Ingrid , Jouhault Quentin , Labroquère Karine , Andrieu Muriel , Chiocchia Gilles , Breban Maxime
Published: June 2014

Objective

HLA–B27/human β2‐microglobulin (hβ2m)–transgenic (B27‐transgenic) rats develop an inflammatory disorder resembling spondyloarthritis, with accumulation of proinflammatory Th17 cells. Because Treg cells and Th17 cells have opposing effects in inflammatory disorders, we sought to determine whether biased expansion of Th17 cells could result from altered Treg cell frequency and/or function in B27‐transgenic rats.

Methods

We characterized the phenotype and function of Treg cells from B27‐transgenic rats in comparison with those from control rats, by examining their expression of cell surface markers, suppressive activity, cytokine production, and differentiation pattern.

Results

In B27‐transgenic rats, the preferential accumulation of CD4+ Teff cells over Treg cells was not associated with a defect in Treg cell differentiation or suppressive activity. The expression of Treg cell markers was similar between B27‐transgenic and control rats, with the exception of the inducible costimulator (ICOS) molecule, which was overexpressed in B27‐transgenic rats. High levels of ICOS are considered to be a hallmark of Treg cells with heightened suppressive activity and interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) expression. Paradoxically, the production of IL‐10 by Treg cells was reduced in B27‐transgenic rats, whereas the production of IL‐17 was enhanced. Moreover, the addition of anti‐ICOS monoclonal antibodies during Treg cell differentiation in the presence of dendritic cells from B27‐transgenic rats reversed this cytokine profile, restoring the balance between IL‐10 and IL‐17 in Treg cells from B27‐transgenic rats.

Conclusion

We observed dysregulated production of IL‐10 and IL‐17 by Treg cells from B27‐transgenic rats, which may contribute to disease development. Moreover, our data highlight a key role for ICOS signaling in the generation of imbalanced production of IL‐10 and IL‐17 by Treg cells in this experimental model of spondyloarthritis.
Mesoporous Spherical Li4Ti5O12 as High‐Performance Anodes for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Du Guojun , Liu Zhaolin , Tay Siok Wei , Liu Xiaogang , Yu Aishui
Published: June 2014

Porous microspherical Li4Ti5O12 aggregates (LTO‐PSA) can be successfully prepared by using porous spherical TiO2 as a titanium source and lithium acetate as a lithium source followed by calcinations. The synthesized LTO‐PSA possess outstanding morphology, with nanosized, porous, and spherical distributions, that allow good electrochemical performances, including high reversible capacity, good cycling stability, and impressive rate capacity, to be achieved. The specific capacity of the LTO‐PSA at 30 C is as high as 141 mA h g−1, whereas that of normal Li4Ti5O12 powders prepared by a sol–gel method can only achieve 100 mA h g−1. This improved rate performance can be ascribed to small Li4Ti5O12 nanocrystallites, a three‐dimensional mesoporous structure, and enhanced ionic conductivity.
Economic design of attribute np control charts using a variable sampling policy
Authors: Kooli Imen , Limam Mohamed
Published: June 2014

To use a control chart, the quality engineer should specify three decision variables, namely the sample size, the sampling interval and the critical region of the chart. A significant part of recent research relaxed the constraint of using fixed design parameters to open the way to a new type of control charts called adaptive ones where at least one of the decision variables may change in real time based on the last data information. These adaptive schemes have proven their effectiveness from economical and statistical point of views. In this paper, the economic design of an attribute np control chart using a variable sampling interval (VSI) is treated. A sensitivity analysis is conducted to search for optimal design parameters minimizing the expected total cost per hour and to reveal the impact of the process and cost parameters on the behavior of optimal solutions. An economic comparison between the classical np chart, variable sample size (VSS) np control chart and VSI chart is conducted. It is found that switching from the classical attribute chart to the VSI sampling strategy results in notable cost savings and in reduction of the average time to signal and the average number of false alarms. In most cases of the sensitivity analysis, the VSI np chart outperforms the VSS np chart based on economical and statistical considerations. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Familial Heterozygous Null Mutation of MET in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Lambert Nelle , Wermenbol Vanessa , Pichon Bruno , Acosta Sandra , van den Ameele Jelle , Perazzolo Camille , Messina Diana , Musumeci Maria‐Franca , Dessars Barbara , De Leener Anne , Abramowicz Marc , Vilain Catheline
Published: June 2014

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) results from interactions of genetic and environmental factors. The MET proto‐oncogene has been identified as a candidate gene for autism susceptibility, and is implicated in neurodevelopment and social brain circuitry. Here, we describe the first case of a familial mutation of MET, consisting of an interstitial genomic deletion removing exons 12 through 15, causing a frameshift and premature stop codon, with evidence of nonsense‐mediated mRNA decay. On the other allele, patients carried the C allele of the MET promoter rs1858830 polymorphism, known to decrease MET expression and previously associated with autism susceptibility. The heterozygous mutation was associated with autism in one patient, and language and social impairment in a sibling. Our observations delineate the phenotypic spectrum associated with a clearly defined, very likely complete loss of function mutation of MET. Incomplete penetrance in this family was consistent with MET as a partial susceptibility gene for ASD. Implication of MET in normal and pathological brain development opens new perspectives for understanding the pathophysiology of autism and for eventual therapeutical clues. Autism Res 2014, 7: 617–622. © 2014 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rapid determination of cellulose
Authors: Bauer Stefan , Ibáñez Ana B.
Published: June 2014

The cellulose analysis results of four feedstocks and Avicel obtained by a one‐step/two‐step hydrolysis method were compared to the conventional cellulose assay according to Updegraff. Slightly lower cellulose levels were observed for Avicel (97%), corn stover (97%), poplar (96%), and Miscanthus (94%) but for pine the amounts were almost identical (101%). Despite these differences, the one‐step/two‐step method can be seen as a true alternative to the more labor‐intensive Updegraff method. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2014;111: 2355–2357. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Determination of Kinetics and the Crystal Structure of a Novel Type 2 Isopentenyl Diphosphate: Dimethylallyl Diphosphate Isomerase fromStreptococcus pneumoniae
Authors: de Ruyck Jerome , Janczak Matthew W. , Neti Syam Sundar , Rothman Steven C. , Schubert Heidi L. , Cornish Rita M. , Matagne Andre , Wouters Johan , Poulter C. Dale
Published: June 2014

Isopentenyl diphosphate isomerase (IDI) is a key enzyme in the isoprenoid biosynthetic pathway and is required for all organisms that synthesize isoprenoid metabolites from mevalonate. Type 1 IDI (IDI‐1) is a metalloprotein that is found in eukaryotes, whereas the type 2 isoform (IDI‐2) is a flavoenzyme found in bacteria that is completely absent from human. IDI‐2 from the pathogenic bacteriumStreptococcus pneumoniaewas recombinantly expressed inEscherichia coli. Steady‐state kinetic studies of the enzyme indicated that FMNH2(KM=0.3 μM) bound before isopentenyl diphosphate (KM=40 μM) in an ordered binding mechanism. An X‐ray crystal structure at 1.4 Å resolution was obtained for the holoenzyme in the closed conformation with a reduced flavin cofactor and two sulfate ions in the active site. These results helped to further approach the enzymatic mechanism of IDI‐2 and, thus, open new possibilities for the rational design of antibacterial compounds against sequence‐similar and structure‐related pathogens such asEnterococcus faecalisorStaphylococcus aureus.
Functional Modification of Fibronectin by N‐Terminal FXIIIa‐Mediated Transamidation
Authors: Früh Susanna M. , Spycher Philipp R. , Mitsi Maria , Burkhardt Melanie A. , Vogel Viola , Schoen Ingmar
Published: June 2014

A straightforward strategy is presented for the site‐specific incorporation of fluorophores or reactive probes into the extracellular matrix (ECM) protein fibronectin (Fn) by using the enzyme‐catalyzed transamidation by activated factor XIII. Characterization by SDS‐PAGE, western blotting, absorption measurements, mass spectrometry, and stepwise photobleaching for labeling quantification at the single‐molecule level showed that the labeling was efficient and restricted to the N‐terminal tails. The introduction of labels did not interfere with Fn fibrillogenesis, as verified by the incorporation of fluorescently labeled Fn into ECM and manually pulled Fn fibers. Site‐specific incorporation of an azide was used to create a template for bioorthogonal click chemistry reactions in a second bioconjugation step, thus offering versatile modification and application possibilities in the context of matrix biology and tissue engineering.
No long‐term clinical benefit from manual aspiration thrombectomy in ST‐elevation myocardial infarction patients. Data from NRDES registry
Authors: Siudak Zbigniew , Mielecki Waldemar , Dziewierz Artur , Rakowski Tomasz , Legutko Jacek , Bartuś Stanisław , Bryniarski Krzysztof L. , Partyka Łukasz , Dudek Dariusz
Published: June 2014

Background

Current STEMI guidelines recommend thrombectomy should be considered during primary PCI. Multiple data from randomized clinical trials, registries, and metanalysis have confirmed the efficacy of thrombectomy in terms of surrogate endpoints like better myocardial perfusion, less pronounced distal embolization, and conflicting results on lower all‐cause mortality. Our aim was to analyze long‐term outcome of STEMI patients treated with manual thrombectomy during primary PCI in a contemporary national registry.

Methods

There were 13 catheterization laboratories in Poland that enrolled patients in NRDES Registry. Patients were divided into two groups: those that were treated with manual thrombectomy for their primary PCI vs. those who were not.

Results

There were altogether 2,686 patients enrolled in the NRDES Registry of whom 1,763 were diagnosed with STEMI (66%). Aspiration thrombectomy was used in 673 of these cases (38%) and 1,090 (62%) patients were treated without thrombectomy during the index primary PCI. Overall mortality at 1 year was 11.03% in thrombectomy and 7.46% in no thrombectomy group respectively (P = 0.0292 which became insignificant after propensity score matching adjustment P = 0.613). Specific subgroup analyses revealed that there was no benefit from aspiration thrombectomy in neither subgroup.

Conclusions

Manual aspiration thrombectomy in patients undergoing primary PCI for STEMI was not associated with improved long‐term 1‐year clinical outcome. Subgroup analysis did not reveal any specific setting in which thrombectomy would be clinically superior. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sitagliptin‐induced pancreatitis – a longer road than expected
Authors: Nelson Matthew , Bhandari Niyati , Wener Jill
Published: June 2014

Key Clinical Message

Sitagliptin‐induced pancreatitis can occur at any time after the initiation of therapy, even after several years. Patients taking sitagliptin who present with signs and symptoms of mild or severe pancreatitis should immediately discontinue sitagliptin and use an alternate medication regimen for control of type 2 diabetes.
Effect of High‐Temperature Calcination on the Generation of Brønsted Acid Sites on WO3/Al2O3
Authors: Kitano Tomoyuki , Hayashi Tomohiro , Uesaka Toshio , Shishido Tetsuya , Teramura Kentaro , Tanaka Tsunehiro
Published: June 2014

The acid properties of a series of alumina‐supported tungsten oxide (WO3/Al2O3) catalysts with loadings of 5–50 wt % WO3 calcined at various temperatures were investigated by acid‐catalyzed reactions (benzylation of anisole and isomerization of α‐pinene) and FTIR spectroscopy. The relationships between acid properties, structures, and catalytic performances were evaluated. Both the catalytic activity and amount of Brønsted acid sites depend on the calcination temperature and WO3 loading. High‐temperature calcination (1123 K) generated Brønsted acid properties, and 20 wt % WO3/Al2O3 calcined at 1123 K exhibited the highest activity among the catalysts tested. The activities for the benzylation of anisole and α‐pinene isomerization over WO3/Al2O3 calcined at 1123 K were proportional to the Brønsted acidity, which indicates that these reactions occurred on the Brønsted acid sites. Tungsten oxide, which has distorted octahedral symmetry, was loaded as 2 D monolayer domains below 20 wt %, and these domains covered most of the alumina surface at 20 wt %. If the WO3 loading was sufficient to form 2 D tungsten oxide monolayer sheets (>20 wt %), some of the Brønsted acid sites on WO3/Al2O3 were obscured by monoclinic WO3 that has no Brønsted acid sites, which resulted in a decrease of the catalytic activity. This suggests that Brønsted acid sites are generated at the boundaries between tungsten oxide monolayer domains.
Flow Manifold Optimization for a Uniform Velocity Distribution in a Laminated Microreactor with Micro‐Pin‐Fin Arrays
Authors: Qian Miao , Mei Deqing , Yao Zhehe , Liu Binhong , Lou Xinyang , Chen Zichen
Published: June 2014

Velocity uniformity in reaction channels has a significant effect on the performance of laminated microreactors with micro‐pin‐fin arrays (MPFAR) for hydrogen production. The hydrogen production efficiency can be improved by optimizing the structure of flow manifolds. The relationship between the flow manifold structure and the velocity distribution in the reaction channel with MPFAR is established by an equivalent electrical resistance network model validated via simulation. The effects of the flow manifold structure on the velocity distribution are investigated. The results show that the velocity distribution can be improved by increasing the y‐direction coordinate Ypi of the flow manifold inlet tube. The flow manifold structure is optimized for better velocity distribution in reaction channels with different MPFAR widths.
A Model to Characterize and Predict Fugitive Emissions from Flange Joints
Authors: Pansegrau Lukas , Schembecker Gerhard , Bramsiepe Christian
Published: June 2014

The new model describing the gaseous transport through graphite gaskets is based on the assumption of a flow in the transition regime through nano‐scale capillaries, using the Maxwellian wall‐slip boundary condition for rarefied gases. Together with an earlier published model describing the liquid transport in graphite gaskets, it enables the characterization of fugitive emissions of volatile organic compounds from fluid‐charged flange joints in chemical and petrochemical plants as a function of medium properties, pipe pressure, and gasket stress. Additionally, combination of the models allows predicting the emission rates of gases by experiments with liquids as the emitting fluid. Finally, recommendations are made to improve the gaskets with respect to their sealing performance towards gases.
Increasing the Equilibrium Yield of Oxidative Dehydrogenation with CO2 by Secondary Reactions
Authors: Müller Karsten , Baumgärtner Andrea , Mokrushina Liudmila , Arlt Wolfgang
Published: June 2014

Oxidative dehydrogenation with carbon dioxide as an oxidant at low temperatures is strongly limited by its thermodynamic equilibrium. It is be shown that the equilibrium yield of the desired olefin can significantly be increased utilizing side reactions. This does not necessarily require the addition of another reactant, since this reactant can be formed in situ from the starting alkane. This effect allows for a decrease of the reaction temperature as well as the overall heat demand of the reaction. As a consequence, the exergy demand of the reaction system is reduced substantially.
Influence of Flow Conditions in High‐Pressure Orifices on Droplet Disruption of Oil‐in‐Water Emulsions
Authors: Kelemen Katharina , Schuch Anna C. , Schuchmann Heike P.
Published: June 2014

Flow conditions in and behind high‐pressure orifices are described by a characteristic correlation between discharge coefficient and Reynolds number. The use of a pressure vessel and variations in viscosity allowed for non‐pulsating flow conditions from laminar to turbulent flow. Emulsions were homogenized under each condition. A considerable difference was observed in the final droplet size distribution depending on laminar, transitional, and turbulent flow. When the flow was pulsating as found when applying a plungers pump, transition of the flow from laminar to turbulence was more difficult to detect. Emulsions homogenized under these conditions indicated broader droplet size distributions. The Sauter mean diameter, however, was not affected by the pulsating flow.
A Domino Approach to the Enantioselective Total Syntheses of Blennolide C and Gonytolide C
Authors: Tietze Lutz F. , Jackenkroll Stefan , Hierold Judith , Ma Ling , Waldecker Bernd
Published: June 2014

The first enantioselective total syntheses of the tetrahydroxanthenone (−)‐blennolide C (ent‐4) and related γ‐lactonyl chromanone (−)‐gonytolide C (ent‐3) are reported. Key to the syntheses is an enantioselective domino‐Wacker/carbonylation/methoxylation reaction to set up the stereocentre at C‐4a. Various chiral BOXAX ligands were investigated, including novel (S,S)‐iBu‐BOXAX, and allowed access to chromane 8 in an excellent enantioselectivity of 99 %. The second stereocentre at C‐4 was established employing a diastereoselective Sharpless dihydroxylation. An extensive survey of (DHQ)‐ and (DHQD)‐based ligands enabled the preparation of both the anti‐isomer 14 a and the syn‐isomer 14 b in very good to reasonable selectivities of 13.7:1 and 1:3.7, respectively. While 14 a was further converted to ent‐3 and ent‐4, 14 b was elaborated to syn‐acid 25 and 2′‐epi‐gonytolide C 28.
Dynamic Complexation of Copper(I) Chloride by Carbene‐Stabilized Disilicon
Authors: Chen Mingwei , Wang Yuzhong , Xie Yaoming , Wei Pingrong , Gilliard Robert J. , Schwartz Nichole A. , Schaefer Henry F. , Schleyer Paul von R. , Robinson Gregory H.
Published: June 2014

Reaction of N‐heterocyclic‐carbene (NHC)‐stabilized disilicon (1) with CuCl gave a carbene‐stabilized disilicon–copper(I) chloride complex (2). The nature of the structure and bonding in 2 has been investigated by crystallographic, spectroscopic, and computational methods. The dynamic complexation behavior of 2 was experimentally explored by variable‐temperature NMR analysis.
Persistent homology analysis of protein structure, flexibility, and folding
Authors: Xia Kelin , Wei Guo‐Wei
Published: June 2014

Proteins are the most important biomolecules for living organisms. The understanding of protein structure, function, dynamics, and transport is one of the most challenging tasks in biological science. In the present work, persistent homology is, for the first time, introduced for extracting molecular topological fingerprints (MTFs) based on the persistence of molecular topological invariants. MTFs are utilized for protein characterization, identification, and classification. The method of slicing is proposed to track the geometric origin of protein topological invariants. Both all‐atom and coarse‐grained representations of MTFs are constructed. A new cutoff‐like filtration is proposed to shed light on the optimal cutoff distance in elastic network models. On the basis of the correlation between protein compactness, rigidity, and connectivity, we propose an accumulated bar length generated from persistent topological invariants for the quantitative modeling of protein flexibility. To this end, a correlation matrix‐based filtration is developed. This approach gives rise to an accurate prediction of the optimal characteristic distance used in protein B‐factor analysis. Finally, MTFs are employed to characterize protein topological evolution during protein folding and quantitatively predict the protein folding stability. An excellent consistence between our persistent homology prediction and molecular dynamics simulation is found. This work reveals the topology–function relationship of proteins. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Secure random number generation in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Lo Re Giuseppe , Milazzo Fabrizio , Ortolani Marco
Published: June 2014

The increasing adoption of wireless sensor networks as a flexible and inexpensive tool for the most diverse applications, ranging from environmental monitoring to home automation, has raised more and more attention to the issues related to the design of specifically customized security mechanisms. The scarcity of computational, storage, and bandwidth resources cannot definitely be disregarded in such context, and this makes the implementation of security algorithms particularly challenging. This paper proposes a security framework for the generation of true random numbers, which are paramount as the core building block for many security algorithms; the intrinsic nature of wireless sensor nodes and their capability of reliably providing measurements of environmental quantities make them natural candidates as true random number generators. In order to provide robustness to common attacks, we additionally devised a protocol aimed at obscuring the actual source of data, by making nodes cooperate with their neighbors. Furthermore, we describe an enhanced version of our framework consisting in an optimization for use in the context of resource‐constrained systems. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rules of Boron–Nitrogen Doping in Defect Graphene Sheets: A First‐Principles Investigation of Band‐Gap Tuning and Oxygen Reduction Reaction Catalysis Capabilities
Authors: Sen Dipayan , Thapa Ranjit , Chattopadhyay Kalyan Kumar
Published: June 2014

Introduction of defects and nitrogen doping are two of the most pursued methods to tailor the properties of graphene for better suitability to applications such as catalysis and energy conversion. Doping nitrogen atoms at defect sites of graphene and codoping them along with boron atoms can further increase the efficiency of such systems due to better stability of nitrogen at defect sites and stabilization provided by BN bonding. Systematic exploration of the possible doping/codoping configurations reflecting defect regions of graphene presents a prevalent doping site for nitrogen‐rich BN clusters and they are also highly suitable for modulating (0.2–0.9 eV) the band gap of defect graphene. Such codoped systems perform significantly better than the platinum surface, undoped defect graphene, and the single nitrogen or boron atom doped defect graphene system for dioxygen adsorption. Significant stretching of the OO bond indicates a lowering of the bond breakage barrier, which is advantageous for applications in the oxygen reduction reaction.
In Vivo Processing of Ceria Nanoparticles inside Liver: Impact on Free‐Radical Scavenging Activity and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Graham Uschi M. , Tseng Michael T. , Jasinski Jacek B. , Yokel Robert A. , Unrine Jason M. , Davis Burtron H. , Dozier Alan K. , Hardas Sarita S. , Sultana Rukhsana , Grulke Eric A. , Butterfield D. Allan
Published: June 2014

The cytotoxicity of ceria ultimately lies in its electronic structure, which is defined by the crystal structure, composition, and size. Despite previous studies focused on ceria uptake, distribution, biopersistance, and cellular effects, little is known about its chemical and structural stability and solubility once sequestered inside the liver. Mechanisms will be presented that elucidate the in vivo transformation in the liver. In vivo processed ceria reveals a particle‐size effect towards the formation of ultrafines, which represent a second generation of ceria. A measurable change in the valence reduction of the second‐generation ceria can be linked to an increased free‐radical scavenging potential. The in vivo processing of the ceria nanoparticles in the liver occurs in temporal relation to the brain cellular and protein clearance responses that stem from the ceria uptake. This information is critical to establish a possible link between cellular processes and the observed in vivo transformation of ceria. The temporal linkage between the reversal of the pro‐oxidant effect (brain) and ceria transformation (liver) suggests a cause–effect relationship.
Electrocatalytic Oxidation of Cellulose at a Gold Electrode
Authors: Sugano Yasuhito , Latonen Rose‐Marie , Akieh‐Pirkanniemi Marceline , Bobacka Johan , Ivaska Ari
Published: June 2014

The electrochemical properties of cellulose dissolved in NaOH solution at a Au surface were investigated by cyclic voltammetry, FTIR spectroscopy, the electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance technique, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The reaction products were characterized by SEM, TEM, and FTIR and NMR spectroscopy. The results imply that cellulose is irreversibly oxidized. Adsorption and desorption of hydroxide ions at the Au surface during potential cycling have an important catalytic role in the reaction (e.g., approach of cellulose to the electrode surface, electron transfer, adsorption/desorption of the reaction species at the electrode surface). Moreover, two types of cellulose derivatives were obtained as products. One is a water‐soluble cellulose derivative in which some hydroxyl groups are oxidized to carboxylic groups. The other derivative is a water‐insoluble hybrid material composed of cellulose and Au nanoparticles (≈4 nm). Furthermore, a reaction scheme of the electrocatalytic oxidation of cellulose at a gold electrode in a basic medium is proposed.
Characterizing peatland carbon balance estimates using freely available Landsat ETM+ data
Authors: Crichton K. A. , Anderson K. , Bennie J. J. , Milton E. J.
Published: June 2014

We demonstrate the potential of using freely available satellite data from the Landsat ETM+ sensor for generating carbon balance estimates for lowland peatlands. We used a lowland ombrotrophic peatland in the UK as our test site representing a range of peatland conditions. A literature survey was undertaken to identify the simplest classification schema that could be used to distinguish ecohydrological classes for carbon sequestration on the peatland surface. These were defined as: active raised bog, Eriophorum‐dominated bog, milled unvegetated peat and drained or degraded bog, with bracken and Carr woodland to define the bog edges. A maximum likelihood classifier (MLC) was used to map the spatial distribution of the six classes on the peatland surface. A Landsat ETM+ band‐5 derived brightness‐texture layer created using geostatistical methods greatly improved classification accuracies. The results showed the best accuracy of the MLC, when compared to finer scale methods, with Landsat ETM+ bands alone was 74%, which increased to 93% when including the brightness‐texture layer. An estimate of carbon sequestration status of the site was performed that showed good agreement with the results of a finer‐scale‐based estimate. The coarse‐scale map estimating −12 000 kg carbon and fine scale map estimating +23 000 kg carbon per annum. We conclude that with further development of our tool, if textural measures are used alongside optical data in MLC, it is possible to achieve good quality estimates of carbon balance status for peatland landscapes. This represents a potentially powerful operational toolkit for land managers and policy makers who require spatially distributed information on carbon storage and release for carbon pricing and effective land management. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Palladium‐Catalyzed α‐Arylation of Carboxylic Acid Derivatives with Grignard Reagent
Authors: Tanaka Daiki , Tanaka Shota , Mori Atsunori
Published: June 2014

The reaction of arylacetic acid with aryl halides in the presence of a palladium(0) catalyst proceeds with a Grignard reagent (2 equiv.) to afford diarylated acetic acids. Deprotonation was confirmed by treatment with allyl bromide, which revealed that the use of EtMgCl or tBuMgCl at room temperature to 60 °C resulted in complete deprotonation. After deprotonation of (4‐methoxyphenyl)acetic acid under such conditions, the resulting mixture was treated with 4‐methoxybromobenzene in the presence of Pd(tBu3P)2 (2 mol‐%) as a catalyst to give bis(4‐methoxyphenyl)acetic acid in 86 % yield. The reaction with several aryl halides under similar conditions gave the corresponding diarylacetic acids.
In situ and laboratory toxicity of coalbed natural gas produced waters with elevated sodium bicarbonate
Authors: Farag Aïda M. , Harper David D. , Skaar Don
Published: June 2014

Some tributaries in the Powder River Structural Basin, USA, were historically ephemeral, but now contain water year round as a result of discharge of coalbed natural gas (CBNG)-produced waters. This presented the opportunity to study field sites with 100% effluent water with elevated concentrations of sodium bicarbonate. In situ experiments, static renewal experiments performed simultaneously with in situ experiments, and static renewal experiments performed with site water in the laboratory demonstrated that CBNG-produced water reduces survival of fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) and pallid sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus albus). Age affected survival of fathead minnow, where fish 2 d posthatch (dph) were more sensitive than 6 dph fish, but pallid sturgeon survival was adversely affected at both 4 and 6 dph. This may have implications for acute assays that allow for the use of fish up to 14 dph. The survival of early lifestage fish is reduced significantly in the field when concentrations of NaHCO3 rise to more than 1500 mg/L (also expressed as >1245 mg HCO3−/L). Treatment with the Higgin's Loop technology and dilution of untreated water increased survival in the laboratory. The mixing zones of the 3 outfalls studied ranged from approximately 800 m to 1200 m below the confluence. These experiments addressed the acute toxicity of effluent waters but did not address issues related to the volumes of water that may be added to the watershed. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014; 33:2086–2093. Published 2014 Wiley Periodicals Inc. on behalf of SETAC. This article is a US government work and, as such, is in the public domain in the United States of America.
Study of Photoluminescence Excitation Spectra of Tris(8‐hydroxyquinoline)aluminum(III) (Alq3) in Solutions and Films
Authors: Wang Zhoulu , Tsuboi Taiju , Liu Xiang , Huang Wei
Published: June 2014

Absorption, photoluminescence, and photoluminescence excitation (PLE) spectra have been investigated for tris(8‐hydroxyquinoline)aluminum(III) (Alq3) in solution at various Alq3 concentrations and in doped and neat films. The redshifted PLE spectra, with respect to the absorption spectra, are obtained, together with a dip located near the absorption band peak. The dip becomes deeper with increasing concentration. It is found that the unusual PLE spectra are caused by the penetration depth effect, not by previously suggested microcrystallites of Alq3.
Change of Luminescence Properties of Europium Ions Captured by Mixed‐Ligand Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Cho Eun Seon , Yokoyama Takahiro , Ertem Elif , Stellacci Francesco
Published: June 2014

We present herein silver nanoparticles about 4 nm in diameter coated with a binary mixture of 1‐octanethiol and 2‐(2‐{2‐[(6‐mercaptohexyl)oxy]ethoxy}ethoxy)ethanol. These particles show an affinity towards optically active Eu3+ ions. The effect of the nanoparticle on the characteristic emission peaks of Eu3+ is investigated. We use the variation in emission spectra of the ion to establish its binding to the nanoparticles.
A comparison of methods for teaching receptive labeling to children with autism spectrum disorders: A systematic replication
Authors: Grow Laura L. , Kodak Tiffany , Carr James E.
Published: June 2014

Previous research has demonstrated that the conditional‐only method (starting with a multiple‐stimulus array) is more efficient than the simple‐conditional method (progressive incorporation of more stimuli into the array) for teaching receptive labeling to children with autism spectrum disorders (Grow, Carr, Kodak, Jostad, & Kisamore, 2011). The current study systematically replicated the earlier study by comparing the 2 approaches using progressive prompting with 2 boys with autism. The results showed that the conditional‐only method was a more efficient and reliable teaching procedure than the simple‐conditional method. The results further call into question the practice of teaching simple discriminations to facilitate acquisition of conditional discriminations.
The use of linked activity schedules to teach children with autism to play hide‐and‐seek
Authors: Brodhead Matthew T. , Higbee Thomas S. , Pollard Joy S. , Akers Jessica S. , Gerencser Kristina R.
Published: June 2014

Linked activity schedules were used to establish appropriate game play in children with autism during a game of hide‐and‐seek. All 6 participants demonstrated acquisition of appropriate play skills in the presence of the activity schedules and maintained responding during subsequent phases. When the schedules were removed, responding decreased to baseline levels, demonstrating that the schedules controlled responding. Implications for future research on the use of activity schedules to teach social behavior are discussed.
MCP‐1 as a Potential Target to Inhibit the Bone Invasion by Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Quan Jingjing , Morrison Nigel A. , Johnson Newell W. , Gao Jin
Published: June 2014

Bone invasion is a common complication of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), and this study sought to explore whether suppressed expression of monocyte chemotactic protein‐1 (MCP‐1) can be used to inhibit the bone invasion by OSCC. Strong staining of MCP‐1 protein was observed from 10 archival blocks of OSCC by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Real‐time PCR showed MCP‐1 mRNA was highly expressed by OSCC cell lines (SCC25, HN5, and Tca8113), and SCC25 cells had the highest expression. An expression construct of a dominant negative variant of MCP‐1 with 7 amino acids truncated (7ND), in the vector pcDNA was used to transfect SCC25 cells, and resultant stabilized SCC25 cells (SCC25‐7ND) were generated by antibiotic selection. 10% conditioned media (CM, supernatant) of SCC25‐7ND cells efficiently inhibited the formation of human osteoclasts grown from CD14+ monocyte subpopulation, comparing with 10% CM of SCC25 cells. Further, cells of SCC25 or SCC25‐7ND were injected onto the surface of calvariae of nude mice to establish an animal model of bone invasion by OSCC. H&E staining showed well‐differentiated OSCC was formed in both groups, tumour cells invading the bone while osteoclasts locating in typical resorption lacunae. TRAP staining indicated significantly fewer osteoclasts were found in calvariae with cells of SCC25‐7ND in comparison to cells of SCC25. These data demonstrate the relevance of MCP‐1 with research on bone invasion by OSCC, and suggest the potential value of MCP‐1 as a target to inhibit this common complication. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 1787–1798, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Intracellular MMP‐2 Activity in Skeletal Muscle Is Associated With Type II Fibers
Authors: Hadler‐Olsen Elin , Solli Ann Iren , Hafstad Anne , Winberg Jan‐Olof , Uhlin‐Hansen Lars
Published: June 2014

Matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP‐2) is a proteolytic enzyme implicated in motility, differentiation, and regeneration of skeletal muscle fibers through processing of extracellular substrates. Although MMP‐2 has been found to be localized intracellularly in cardiomyocytes where the enzyme is thought to contribute to post‐ischemic loss of contractility, little is known about intracellular MMP‐2 activity in skeletal muscle fibers. In the present study we demonstrate intracellular MMP‐2 in normal skeletal muscle by immunohistochemical staining. Immunogold electron microscopic analyses indicated that the enzyme was concentrated in Z‐lines of the sarcomers, in the nuclear membrane, and in mitochondria. By use of in situ zymography, we found that gelatinolytic activity in muscle fibers was co‐localized with immunofluorecent staining for MMP‐2. Staining for MMP‐9, the other member of the gelatinase group of the MMPs, was negative. The broad‐spectrum metalloprotease inhibitor EDTA and the selective gelatinase inhibitor CTT2, but not the cysteine inhibitor E64, strongly reduced the gelatinolytic activity. The intracellular gelatinolytic activity was much more prominent in fast twitch type II fibers than in slow twitch type I fibers, and there was a decrease in intracellular gelatinolytic activity and MMP‐2 expression in muscles from mice exposed to high intensity interval training. Together our results indicate that MMP‐2 is part of the intracellular proteolytic network in normal skeletal muscle, especially in fast twitch type II fibers. Further, the results suggest that intracellular MMP‐2 in skeletal muscle fibers is active during normal homeostasis, and affected by the level of physical activity. J. Cell. Physiol. 230: 160–169, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Movement Disorders in Autosomal Dominant Cerebellar Ataxias: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rossi Malco , Perez‐Lloret Santiago , Cerquetti Daniel , Merello Marcelo
Published: June 2014

Autosomal dominant cerebellar ataxias (ADCAs) are clinically heterogeneous disorders classified according to genetic subtype and collectively known as SCAs. In a few SCAs, movement disorders can be the most frequent extracerebellar sign. The aim of this article is to perform a systematic review of movement disorders frequency and characteristics in ADCAs. This work consisted of a structured search of electronic databases up to January 2013. Publications containing descriptions of ADCA clinical features written in several languages were selected initially based on title and abstract screening, followed by full‐text reading of potentially relevant publications. Clinical findings and demographic data on genetically confirmed patients were extracted. Analysis of individual patient data from subjects with movement disorders was performed using the chi‐square test and logistic regression. One thousand and sixty‐six publications reviewing 12,151 patients from 30 different SCAs were analyzed. Individual data were available from 755 patients with at least one type of movement disorder during overall disease course. Of 422 patients in whom onset symptom data were available, one third referred a movement disorder as the initial symptom. During overall disease course, parkinsonism was common in many SCA subtypes, frequently described in the absence of ataxia and characterized as responding to dopaminergic medications. Motor complications developed occasionally in some patients as did nigrostriatal imaging alterations. Other frequent features were dystonia, chorea, and myoclonus. Rare conditions, such as akathisia, paroxysmal nonkinesigenic dyskinesia, or stiff person‐like syndrome, were also reported. ADCA descriptions included a full range of movement disorders. Aside from postural or intention tremor, dopamine‐responsive parkinsonism and dystonia were the most common.
Asymptotic preserving time‐discretization of optimal control problems for the Goldstein–Taylor model
Authors: Albi Giacomo , Herty Michael , Jörres Christian , Pareschi Lorenzo
Published: June 2014

We consider the development of implicit‐explicit time integration schemes for optimal control problems governed by the Goldstein–Taylor model. In the diffusive scaling, this model is a hyperbolic approximation to the heat equation. We investigate the relation of time integration schemes and the formal Chapman–Enskog‐type limiting procedure. For the class of stiffly accurate implicit–explicit Runge–Kutta methods, the discrete optimality system also provides a stable numerical method for optimal control problems governed by the heat equation. Numerical examples illustrate the expected behavior. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 30: 1770–1784, 2014
Direct acute tubular damage contributes to Shigatoxin‐mediated kidney failure
Authors: Porubsky Stefan , Federico Giuseppina , Müthing Johannes , Jennemann Richard , Gretz Norbert , Büttner Stefan , Obermüller Nicholas , Jung Oliver , Hauser Ingeborg A , Gröne Elisabeth , Geiger Helmut , Gröne Hermann‐Josef , Betz Christoph
Published: June 2014

The pathogenesis and therapy of Shigatoxin 2 (Stx2)‐mediated kidney failure remain controversial. Our aim was to test whether, during an infection with Stx2‐producing E. coli (STEC), Stx2 exerts direct effects on renal tubular epithelium and thereby possibly contributes to acute renal failure. Mice represent a suitable model because they, like humans, express the Stx2‐receptor Gb3 in the tubular epithelium but, in contrast to humans, not in glomerular endothelia, and are thus free of glomerular thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA). In wild‐type mice, Stx2 caused acute tubular dysfunction with consequent electrolyte disturbance, which was most likely the cause of death. Tubule‐specific depletion of Gb3 protected the mice from acute renal failure. In vitro, Stx2 induced secretion of proinflammatory cytokines and apoptosis in human tubular epithelial cells, thus implicating a direct effect of Stx2 on the tubular epithelium. To correlate these results to human disease, kidney biopsies and outcome were analysed in patients with Stx2‐associated kidney failure (n = 11, aged 22–44 years). The majority of kidney biopsies showed different stages of an ongoing TMA; however, no glomerular complement activation could be demonstrated. All biopsies, including those without TMA, showed severe acute tubular damage. Due to these findings, patients were treated with supportive therapy without complement‐inhibiting antibodies (eculizumab) or immunoadsorption. Despite the severity of the initial disease [creatinine 6.34 (1.31–17.60) mg/dl, lactate dehydrogenase 1944 (753–2792) U/l, platelets 33 (19–124)/nl and haemoglobin 6.2 (5.2–7.8) g/dl; median (range)], all patients were discharged after 33 (range 19–43) days with no neurological symptoms and no dialysis requirement [creatinine 1.39 (range 0.84–2.86) mg/dl]. The creatinine decreased further to 0.90 (range 0.66–1.27) mg/dl after 24 months. Based on these data, one may surmise that acute tubular damage represents a separate pathophysiological mechanism, importantly contributing to Stx2‐mediated acute kidney failure. Specifically in young adults, an excellent outcome can be achieved by supportive therapy only. © 2014 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.