bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biomechanical implications of skeletal muscle hypertrophy and atrophy: a musculoskeletal model
Authors: Vigotsky Andrew D. , Contreras Bret , Beardsley Chris
Published: November 2015

Muscle hypertrophy and atrophy occur frequently as a result of mechanical loading or unloading, with implications for clinical, general, and athletic populations. The effects of muscle hypertrophy and atrophy on force production and joint moments have been previously described. However, there is a paucity of research showing how hypertrophy and atrophy may affect moment arm (MA) lengths. The purpose of this model was to describe the mathematical relationship between the anatomical cross-sectional area (ACSA) of a muscle and its MA length. In the model, the ACSAs of the biceps brachii and brachialis were altered to hypertrophy up to twice their original size and to atrophy to one-half of their original size. The change in MA length was found to be proportional to the arcsine of the square root of the change in ACSA. This change in MA length may be a small but important contributor to strength, especially in sports that require large joint moments at slow joint angular velocities, such as powerlifting. The paradoxical implications of the increase in MA are discussed, as physiological factors influencing muscle contraction velocity appear to favor a smaller MA length for high velocity movements but a larger muscle MA length for low velocity, high force movements.
Performance of the CORDEX‐Africa regional climate simulations in representing the hydrological cycle of the Niger River basin
Authors: Mascaro Giuseppe , White Dave D. , Westerhoff Paul , Bliss Nadya
Published: November 2015

The water resources of the Niger River basin (NRB) in West Africa are crucial to support the socioeconomic development of nine countries. In this study, we compared and evaluated performances of simulations at 0.44° resolution of several regional climate models (RCMs) of the Coordinated Regional climate Downscaling Experiment (CORDEX) in reproducing the statistical properties of the hydrological cycle of the NRB in the current climate. To capture the large range of climatic zones in the region, analyses were conducted by spatially averaging the water balance components in four nested subbasins. Most RCMs overestimate (order of +10% to +400%, depending on model and subbasin) the mean annual difference between precipitation (P) and evaporation (E), whose observed value was assumed equal to the long‐term discharge based on the mass conservation principle. This is due to a tendency to simulate larger mean annual P and a weak hydrological cycle in the E channel. Some exceptions appear in the humid most‐upstream subbasin, where a few RCMs underestimate P. Overall, the representation of the water balance is mostly sensitive to the parameterized land surface and atmospheric processes of the nested RCMs, with less influence of the driving general circulation model. This finding is supported by further analyses on seasonal cycle and spatial variability of the water balance components and on model performances in reproducing observed climatology. Results of this work should be considered when RCMs are used directly or in impact studies to develop policies and plan investments aimed at ensuring water sustainability in the NRB.
Validation of the Self‐Efficacy for Managing Chronic Disease Scale: A Scleroderma Patient‐Centered Intervention Network Cohort Study
Authors: Riehm Kira E. , Kwakkenbos Linda , Carrier Marie‐Eve , Bartlett Susan J. , Malcarne Vanessa L. , Mouthon Luc , Nielson Warren R. , Poiraudeau Serge , Nielsen Karen , Baron Murray , Frech Tracy , Hudson Marie , Pope Janet , Sauve Maureen , Suarez‐Almazor Maria E. , Wigley Fredrick M. , Thombs Brett D. ,   the Scleroderma Patient‐Centered Intervention Network Investigators
Published: November 2015

Objective

Self‐management programs for patients with chronic illnesses, including rheumatic diseases, seek to enhance self‐efficacy for performing health management behaviors. No measure of self‐efficacy has been validated for patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc; scleroderma). The objective of this study was to assess the validity and internal consistency reliability of the Self‐Efficacy for Managing Chronic Disease (SEMCD) scale in SSc.

Methods

English‐speaking SSc patients enrolled in the Scleroderma Patient‐centered Intervention Network Cohort who completed the SEMCD scale at their baseline assessment between March 2014 and June 2015 were included. Patients were enrolled from 21 sites in Canada, the US, and the UK. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to evaluate the factor structure of the SEMCD scale. Cronbach's alpha was calculated to assess internal consistency reliability. Hypotheses on the direction and magnitude of Pearson's correlations with psychological and physical outcome measures were formulated and tested to examine convergent validity.

Results

A total of 553 patients were included. CFA supported the single‐factor structure of the SEMCD scale (Tucker Lewis Index = 0.99, comparative fit index = 0.99, root mean square error of approximation = 0.10). Internal consistency was high (α = 0.93), and correlations with measures of psychological and physical functioning were moderate to large (|r| = 0.48–0.67, P < 0.001), confirming study hypotheses.

Conclusion

Scores from the SEMCD scale are valid for measuring self‐efficacy in patients with SSc, and results support using the scale as an outcome measure to evaluate the effectiveness of self‐management programs in SSc.
Nanoscale Tailored Plasmonic Material for Optimum Broadband Solar Harvesting
Authors: McClean‐Ilten Éadaoin , Zerulla Dominic
Published: November 2015

Is it possible to design a dedicated nanostructure on which all surface features contribute entirely to energy harvesting within a solar cell? This is an important challenge in the light that the efficiency of the solar cell technology utilized has a direct impact on the required land use and also on reaching grid parity. Here, a unique approach is used and an analytically derived optimum solution to the problem is presented: a nanoscale metal topography, capable of significantly improving the efficiency of solid state solar cells via excitation of surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs). The presented structure is designed to achieve broadband excitation of SPPs through the highest possible density of desired k‐vectors at the interface. This leads to high weighted absorption enhancements (>130%) and unprecedented improvements (>30%) of solar cell external quantum efficiencies over the entire harvestable range.
Young adults with hemophilia in the U.S.: demographics, comorbidities, and health status
Authors: Curtis Randall , Baker Judith , Riske Brenda , Ullman Megan , Niu Xiaoli , Norton Kristi , Lou Mimi , Nichol Michael B.
Published: November 2015

Improvements in hemophilia care over the last several decades might lead to expectations of a near‐normal quality of life for young adults with hemophilia. However, few published reports specifically examine health status indicators in this population. To remedy this knowledge gap, we examined the impact of hemophilia on physical and social functioning and quality of life among a national US cohort of 141 young men with hemophilia aged 18–34 years of age who received care at 10 geographically diverse, federally funded hemophilia treatment centers in 11 states between 2005 and 2013 and enrolled in the Hemophilia Utilization Group Studies. Indicators studied included educational achievement, employment status, insurance, health‐related quality of life, and prevalence of the following comorbidities: pain, range of motion limitation, overweight/obesity, and viral status. The cohort was analyzed to compare those aged 18–24 to those aged 25–34 years. When compared to the general US adult population, this nationally representative cohort of young US adults with hemophilia experienced significant health and social burdens: more liver disease, joint damage, joint pain, and unemployment as well as lower high‐school graduation rates. Nearly half were overweight or obese. Conversely, this cohort had higher levels of health insurance and equivalent mental health scores. While attention has typically focused on newborns, children, adolescents, and increasingly, on older persons with hemophilia, our findings suggest that a specific focus on young adults is warranted to determine the most effective interventions to improve health and functioning for this apparently vulnerable age group. Am. J. Hematol. 90:S11–S16, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of hydroxyurea treatment for patients with hemoglobin SC disease
Authors: Luchtman‐Jones Lori , Pressel Sara , Hilliard Lee , Brown R. Clark , Smith Mary G. , Thompson Alexis A. , Lee Margaret T. , Rothman Jennifer , Rogers Zora R. , Owen William , Imran Hamayun , Thornburg Courtney , Kwiatkowski Janet L. , Aygun Banu , Nelson Stephen , Roberts Carla , Gauger Cynthia , Piccone Connie , Kalfa Theodosia , Alvarez Ofelia , Hassell Kathryn , Davis Barry R. , Ware Russell E.
Published: November 2015

Although hemoglobin SC (HbSC) disease is usually considered less severe than sickle cell anemia (SCA), which includes HbSS and HbS/β0‐thalassemia genotypes, many patients with HbSC experience severe disease complications, including vaso‐occlusive pain, acute chest syndrome, avascular necrosis, retinopathy, and poor quality of life. Fully 20 years after the clinical and laboratory efficacy of hydroxyurea was proven in adult SCA patients, the safety and utility of hydroxyurea treatment for HbSC patients remain unclear. Recent NHLBI evidence‐based guidelines highlight this as a critical knowledge gap, noting HbSC accounts for ∼30% of sickle cell patients within the United States. To date, only 5 publications have reported short‐term, incomplete, or conflicting laboratory and clinical outcomes of hydroxyurea treatment in a total of 71 adults and children with HbSC. We now report on a cohort of 133 adult and pediatric HbSC patients who received hydroxyurea, typically for recurrent vaso‐occlusive pain. Hydroxyurea treatment was associated with a stable hemoglobin concentration; increased fetal hemoglobin (HbF) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV); and reduced white blood cell count (WBC), absolute neutrophil count (ANC), and absolute reticulocyte count (ARC). Reversible cytopenias occurred in 22% of patients, primarily neutropenia and thrombocytopenia. Painful events were reduced with hydroxyurea, more in patients >15 years old. These multicenter data support the safety and potentially salutary effects of hydroxyurea treatment for HbSC disease; however, a multicenter, placebo‐controlled, Phase 3 clinical trial is needed to determine if hydroxyurea therapy has efficacy for patients with HbSC disease. Am. J. Hematol. 91:238–242, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Curing kinetics of a “green” thiol‐containing resin: Oligo(ethylene‐2‐mercaptosuccinate)
Authors: Davis Michael , Droske John P. , Zheng Wei
Published: November 2015

This work focuses on examining the curing process of neat oligo(ethylene‐2‐mercaptosuccinate) using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), rheology, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The thiol‐containing resin offers much promise as a bioabsorbable polymer in medical field and as a reusable thermoset in sustainable applications. Although curing between thiol groups has been investigated in solutions, studies of neat materials without solvent are rare. Here, the evolution of glass transition temperature (Tg), complex shear modulus (G*), gelation, and chemical structure are monitored as a function of isothermal curing time and temperature. Both Tg and G* increase with curing, indicating the formation of polymer networks. The conversion of the cure is determined from the DiBenedetto equation and is found to follow a second‐order plus second‐order autocatalytic reaction model. Importantly, the intensity of the S–H bond absorption decreases with the extent of curing, which confirms the curing mechanism, i.e., disulfide formation between the thiol groups. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43205.
Active packaging material based on buriti oil – Mauritia flexuosa L.f. (Arecaceae) incorporated into chitosan films
Authors: de F. Silva Mariangela , Lopes Patrícia S. , da Silva Classius F. , Yoshida Cristiana M. P.
Published: November 2015

Active and biodegradable materials have great potential in food packaging applications, improving the safety and quality of products. The objective of this study was to develop a new material based on buriti oil incorporated into a chitosan film. Different concentrations of buriti oil in dried films (2.1 g/m2, 10.4 g/m2, 20.8 g/m2, and 31.3 g/m2) were added into a chitosan matrix (41.7 g/m2). The chitosan/buriti oil films were characterized by water‐vapor barrier properties, total water‐soluble matter (TSM), tensile properties, thermogravimetric analysis, microstructure, microbial permeation properties, and biodegradation estimation. The higher oil concentration improved the water‐vapor barrier and the buriti oil acted largely as a plasticizer and increased the elongation at break, and decreased the tensile strength (TS) of chitosan films. The total water‐soluble matter of chitosan films decreased in function of the buriti oil concentration, but the biodegradation and thermal stability increased. The chitosan films presented a microbial barrier against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43210.
A glance at violet LED sensitive photoinitiators based on the spiroxanthene scaffold
Authors: Mokbel Haifaa , Poriel Cyril , Rault‐Berthelot Joëlle , Dumur Frédéric , Gigmes Didier , Toufaily Joumana , Hamieh Tayssir , Cordella Daniela , Detrembleur Christophe , Fouassier Jean Pierre , Lalevée Jacques
Published: November 2015

A novel photoinitiator based on a spiroxanthene scaffold in the presence of an iodonium salt is proposed for the cationic ring‐opening polymerization of a diepoxide, as well as for the free‐radical polymerization of an acrylate upon violet LED exposure (385 and 405 nm). Good‐to‐excellent rates of polymerization and final conversions are obtained. These systems are characterized by a higher reactivity compared with that of anthracene/iodonium salt used as reference for cationic near UV polymerization. The addition of a poly(ionic liquid) improves the cationic polymerization profiles. The photochemical mechanisms are studied by steady‐state photolysis, fluorescence, and electron spin resonance spin‐trapping techniques. Molecular orbital calculations give an insight into the light absorption properties. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43213.
Site‐selective chemical modification of chymotrypsin using peptidyl derivatives bearing optically active diphenyl 1‐amino‐2‐phenylethylphosphonate: Stereochemical effect of the diphenyl phosphonate moiety
Authors: Ono Shin , Nakai Takahiko , Kuroda Hirofumi , Miyatake Ryuta , Horino Yoshikazu , Abe Hitoshi , Umezaki Masahito , Oyama Hiroshi
Published: November 2015

Diphenyl (α‐aminoalkyl)phosphonates act as mechanism‐based inhibitors against serine proteases by forming a covalent bond with the hydroxy group of the active center Ser residue. Because the covalent bond was found to be broken and replaced by 2‐pyridinaldoxime methiodide (2PAM), we employed a peptidyl derivative bearing diphenyl 1‐amino‐2‐phenylethylphosphonate moiety (Phep(OPh)2) to target the active site of chymotrypsin and to selectively anchor to Lys175 in the vicinity of the active site. Previously, it was reported that the configuration of the α‐carbon of phosphorus in diphenyl (α‐aminoalkyl)phosphonates affects the inactivation reaction of serine proteases, i.e., the (R)‐enantiomeric diphenyl phosphonate is comparable to l‐amino acids and it effectively reacts with serine proteases, whereas the (S)‐enantiomeric form does not. In this study, we evaluated the stereochemical effect of the phosphonate moiety on the selective chemical modification. Epimeric dipeptidyl derivatives, Ala‐(R or S)‐Phep(OPh)2, were prepared by separation with RP‐HPLC. A tripeptidyl (R)‐epimer (Ala‐Ala‐(R)‐Phep(OPh)2) exhibited a more potent inactivation ability against chymotrypsin than the (S)‐epimer. The enzyme inactivated by the (R)‐epimer was more effectively reactivated with 2PAM than the enzyme inactivated by the (S)‐epimer. Finally, N‐succinimidyl (NHS) active ester derivatives, NHS‐Suc‐Ala‐Ala‐ (R or S)‐Phep(OPh)2, were prepared, and we evaluated their action when modifying Lys175 in chymotrypsin. We demonstrated that the epimeric NHS derivative that possessed the diphenyl phosphonate moiety with the (R)‐configuration effectively modified Lys175 in chymotrypsin, whereas that with the (S)‐configuration did not. These results demonstrate the utility of peptidyl derivatives that bear an optically active diphenyl phosphonate moiety as affinity labeling probes in protein bioconjugation. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 106: 521–530, 2016.
Importance of teamwork, communication and culture on failure-to-rescue in the elderly
Authors: Ghaferi A A , Dimick J B
Published: November 2015

Background

Surgical mortality increases significantly with age. Wide variations in mortality rates across hospitals suggest potential levers for improvement. Failure-to-rescue has been posited as a potential mechanism underlying these differences.

Methods

A review was undertaken of the literature evaluating surgery, mortality, failure-to-rescue and the elderly. This was followed by a review of ongoing studies and unpublished work aiming to understand better the mechanisms underlying variations in surgical mortality in elderly patients.

Results

Multiple hospital macro-system factors, such as nurse staffing, available hospital technology and teaching status, are associated with differences in failure-to-rescue rates. There is emerging literature regarding important micro-system factors associated with failure-to-rescue. These are grouped into three broad categories: hospital resources, attitudes and behaviours. Ongoing work to produce interventions to reduce variations in failure-to-rescue rates include a focus on teamwork, communication and safety culture. Researchers are using novel mixed-methods approaches and theories adapted from organizational studies in high-reliability organizations in an effort to improve the care of elderly surgical patients.

Conclusion

Although elderly surgical patients experience failure-to-rescue events at much higher rates than their younger counterparts, patient-level effects do not sufficiently explain these differences. Increased attention to the role of organizational dynamics in hospitals' ability to rescue these high-risk patients will establish high-yield interventions aimed at improving patient safety.
A PDE‐based head visualization method with CT data
Authors: Chen Congkun , Sheng Yun , Li Fang , Zhang Guixu , Ugail Hassan
Published: November 2015

In this paper, we extend the use of the partial differential equation (PDE) method to head visualization with computed tomography (CT) data and show how the two primary medical visualization means, surface reconstruction, and volume rendering can be integrated into one single framework through PDEs. Our scheme first performs head segmentation from CT slices using a variational approach, the output of which can be readily used for extraction of a small set of PDE boundary conditions. With the extracted boundary conditions, head surface reconstruction is then executed. Because only a few slices are used, our method can perform head surface reconstruction more efficiently in both computational time and storage cost than the widely used marching cubes algorithm. By elaborately introducing a third parameter w to the PDE method, a solid head can be created, based on which the head volume is subsequently rendered with 3D texture mapping. Instead of designing a transfer function, we associate the alpha value of texels of the 3D texture with the PDE parameter w through a linear transform. This association enables the production of a visually translucent head volume. The experimental results demonstrate the feasibility of the developed head visualization method. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Coronary and peripheral stenting in aorto‐ostial protruding stents: The balloon assisted access to protruding stent technique
Authors: Helmy Tarek A. , Sanchez Carlos E. , Bailey Steven R.
Published: November 2015

Treatment of aorto‐ostial in‐stent restenosis lesions represents a challenge for interventional cardiologists. Excessive protrusion of the stent into the aorta may lead to multiple technical problems, such as difficult catheter reengagement of the vessel ostium or inability to re‐wire through the stent lumen in repeat interventions. We describe a balloon assisted access to protruding stent technique in cases where conventional coaxial engagement of an aorto‐ostial protruding stent with the guide catheter or passage of the guide wire through the true lumen is not feasible. This technique is applicable both in coronary and peripheral arteries. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Glioblastoma care in the elderly
Authors: Jordan Justin T. , Gerstner Elizabeth R. , Batchelor Tracy T. , Cahill Daniel P. , Plotkin Scott R.
Published: November 2015

Glioblastoma is common among elderly patients, a group in which comorbidities and a poor prognosis raise important considerations when designing neuro‐oncologic care. Although the standard of care for nonelderly patients with glioblastoma includes maximal safe surgical resection followed by radiotherapy with concurrent and adjuvant temozolomide, the safety and efficacy of these modalities in elderly patients are less certain given the population's underrepresentation in many clinical trials. The authors reviewed the clinical trial literature for reports on the treatment of elderly patients with glioblastoma to provide evidence‐based guidance for practitioners. In elderly patients with glioblastoma, there is a survival advantage for those who undergo maximal safe resection, which likely includes an incremental benefit with increasing completeness of resection. Radiotherapy extends survival in selected patients, and hypofractionation appears to be more tolerable than standard fractionation. In addition, temozolomide chemotherapy is safe and extends the survival of patients with tumors that harbor O(6)‐methylguanine‐DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation. The combination of standard radiation with concurrent and adjuvant temozolomide has not been studied in this population. Although many questions remain unanswered regarding the treatment of glioblastoma in elderly patients, the available evidence provides a framework on which providers may base individual treatment decisions. The importance of tumor biomarkers is increasingly apparent in elderly patients, for whom the therapeutic efficacy of any treatment must be weighed against its potential toxicity. MGMT promoter methylation status has specifically demonstrated utility in predicting the efficacy of temozolomide and should be considered in treatment decisions when possible. Cancer 2016;122:189–197. © 2015 American Cancer Society.
How the mode of action affects evidence of planning and movement kinematics in aging: End‐state comfort in older adults
Authors: Scharoun Sara M. , Gonzalez Dave A. , Roy Eric A. , Bryden Pamela J.
Published: November 2015

Motor deficits are commonly observed with age; however, it has been argued that older adults are more adept when acting in natural tasks and do not differ from young adults in these contexts. This study assessed end‐state comfort and movement kinematics in a familiar task to examine this further. Left‐ and right‐handed older adults picked up a glass (upright or overturned) as if to pour water in four modes of action (pantomime, pantomime with image/cup as a guide, actual grasping). With increasing age, a longer deceleration phase (in pantomime without a stimulus) and less end‐state comfort (in pantomime without a stimulus and image as a guide) was displayed as the amount of contextual information available to guide movement decreased. Changes in movement strategies likely reflect an increased reliance on feedback control and demonstration of a more cautious movement. A secondary aim of this study was to assess hand preference and performance, considering conflicting reports of manual asymmetries with age. Performance differences in the Grooved Pegboard place task indicate left handers may display a shift towards right handedness in some, but not all cases. Summarizing, this study supports age‐related differences in planning and control processes in a familiar task, and changes in manual asymmetries with age in left handers. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 58: 439–449, 2016.
Associations of dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors with mortality in hospitalized heart failure patients with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Sato Akihiko , Yoshihisa Akiomi , Kanno Yuki , Takiguchi Mai , Miura Shunsuke , Shimizu Takeshi , Nakamura Yuichi , Yamauchi Hiroyuki , Owada Takashi , Sato Takamasa , Suzuki Satoshi , Oikawa Masayoshi , Yamaki Takayoshi , Sugimoto Koichi , Kunii Hiroyuki , Nakazato Kazuhiko , Suzuki Hitoshi , Saitoh Shu‐ichi , Takeishi Yasuchika
Published: November 2015

Background

Heart failure (HF) and diabetes mellitus (DM) often co‐exist. Treatment of DM in HF patients is challenging because some therapies for DM are contraindicated in HF. Although previous experimental studies have reported that dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP‐4) inhibitors improve cardiovascular function, whether DPP‐4 inhibition improves mortality of HF patients with DM remains unclear. Therefore, we examined the impact of DPP‐4 inhibition on mortality in hospitalized HF patients using propensity score analyses.

Methods and results

We performed observational study analysed by propensity score method with 962 hospitalized HF patients. Of these patients, 293 (30.5%) had DM, and 122 of these DM patients were treated with DPP‐4 inhibitors. Propensity scores for treatment with DPP‐4 inhibitors were estimated for each patient by logistic regression with clinically relevant baseline variables. The propensity‐matched 1:1 cohorts were assessed based on propensity scores (DPP‐4 inhibitors, n = 83, and non‐DPP‐4 inhibitors, n = 83). Kaplan–Meier analysis in the propensity score‐matched cohort demonstrated that cardiac and all‐cause mortality was significantly lower in the DPP‐4 inhibitor group than in the non‐DPP‐4 inhibitor group (cardiac mortality: 4.8% vs. 18.1%, P = 0.015; all‐cause mortality: 14.5% vs. 41.0%, P = 0.003, by a log‐rank test). In the multivariable Cox proportional hazard analyses, after adjusting for other potential confounding factors, the use of DPP‐4 inhibitors was an independent predictor of all‐cause mortality (pre‐matched cohort: hazard ratio 0.467, P = 0.010; post‐matched cohort: hazard ratio 0.370, P = 0.003) in HF patients with DM.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that DPP‐4 inhibitors may improve cardiac and all‐cause mortality in hospitalized HF patients with DM.
Tunable Titanocene Lewis Acid Catalysts for Selective Friedel–Crafts Reaction of Indoles and N‐Sulfonyl­aldimines
Authors: Xiu Wang , Zhenhua Wang , Zhang Guofang , Zhang Weiqiang , Wu Ya , Gao Ziwei
Published: November 2015

A new strategy to control the selective Friedel–Crafts reaction of indoles and imines under mild conditions was developed. Phenol derivatives were established as efficient ligands to finely tune the activity of titanocene dichloride. Cp2TiCl2 and phenol catalyzed the mono‐Friedel–Crafts reaction of indoles and N‐sulfonyl aldimines with good yields (91 %), whereas o‐aminophenol significantly enhanced the activity of the titanocene catalyst and promoted the synthesis of bisindole with excellent yields (98 %). The new organometallic Lewis acid catalysts are air‐tolerant, can be used with low catalyst loading (3 mmol‐%) and are compatible with –NO2, –F, –Cl, –Br, and –OMe (30 examples with yields from good to excellent). The titanocene catalysts were fully characterized by NMR and HRMS analysis. The results suggest that Cp2TiCl(OC6H5) (I) and Cp2TiCl(OC6H4NH3+Cl–) (II) were catalytic species for the mono‐ and double‐Friedel–Crafts reactions, respectively. Distinguished from single functional acid catalysts I, catalyst II showed a catalytic cooperative effect of two acid components, which led to a fine tuning of the reactivity as well as to the selectivity of the desired reaction pathways.
Combination of Brønsted and Lewis Polymeric Catalysts for Efficient Conversion of Cellulose into 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) in Ionic Liquids
Authors: Shen Yating , Zhang Yunlei , Chen Yao , Yan Yongsheng , Pan Jianming , Liu Meng , Shi Weidong
Published: November 2015

Stable oil‐in‐water high internal phase emulsions (HIPEs) with an internal phase volume fraction of 85 % were stabilized using Tween 85. The prepared poly(HIPEs) were first investigated as adsorbents to treat water polluted with CrIII, and then the catalysts with Lewis acidic sites was synthesized. The catalysts with Brønsted acidic sites were obtained by ion‐exchanging. The as‐prepared HIPEs–CrIII (PEs–CrIII) and HIPEs–SO3H (PEs–SO3H) possess open‐cell structure, interconnecting pores, and strong acidity, they are utilized as highly efficient catalysts for the conversion of biomass to 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF). These results showed maximum production yields for cellulose, glucose, and fructose of 37.0 %, 58.0 %, and 80.8 %, respectively. PEs–CrIII and PEs–SO3H can be very easily recycled at least four times without significant loss of activity. Herein, a new method is presented to transform cellulose by using two catalysts in a one‐pot process for meeting the varying demands involved at different reaction stages.
Type IIFNs induce anti‐tumor polarization of tumor associated neutrophils in mice and human
Authors: Andzinski Lisa , Kasnitz Nadine , Stahnke Stephanie , Wu Ching‐Fang , Gereke Marcus , von Köckritz‐Blickwede Maren , Schilling Bastian , Brandau Sven , Weiss Siegfried , Jablonska Jadwiga
Published: November 2015

The importance of tumor associated neutrophils (TANs) in cancer development is in the meantime well established. Numerous of clinical data document the adverse prognostic effects of neutrophil infiltration in solid tumors. However, certain tumor therapies need functional neutrophils to be effective, suggesting altered neutrophil polarization associated with different outcomes for cancer patients. Therefore, modulation of neutrophilic phenotypes represents a potent therapeutic option, but factors mediating neutrophil polarization are still poorly defined. In this manuscript we provide evidence that type I IFNs alter neutrophilic phenotype into anti‐tumor, both in mice and human. In the absence of IFN‐β, pro‐tumor properties, such as reduced tumor cytotoxicity with low neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) expression, low ICAM1 and TNF‐α expression, dominated neutrophil phenotypes in primary lesion and premetastatic lung. Interestingly, such neutrophils have significantly prolonged life‐span. Notably, interferon therapy in mice altered TAN polarization towards anti‐tumor N1. Similar changes in neutrophil activation could be observed in melanoma patients undergoing type I IFN therapy. Altogether, these data highlight the therapeutic potential of interferons, suggesting optimization of its clinical use as potent anti‐tumor agent.
The functional‐cognitive framework for psychological research: Controversies and resolutions
Authors: Hughes Sean , De Houwer Jan , Perugini Marco
Published: November 2015

The scientific goals, values and assumptions of functional and cognitive researchers have propelled them down two very different scientific pathways. Many have, and continue to argue, that these differences undermine any potential communication and collaboration between the two traditions. We explore a different view on this debate. Specifically, we focus on the Functional‐Cognitive (FC) framework, and in particular, the idea that cognitive and functional researchers can and should interact to the benefit of both. Our article begins with a short introduction to the FC framework. We sweep aside misconceptions about the framework, present the original version as it was outlined by De Houwer (2011) and then offer our most recent thoughts on how it should be implemented. Thereafter, we reflect on its strengths and weaknesses, clarify the functional (effect‐centric vs. analytic‐abstractive) level and consider its many implications for cognitive research and theorising. In the final section, we briefly review the articles contained in this Special Issue. These contributions provide clear examples of the conceptual, empirical and methodological developments that can emerge when cognitive, clinical, personality and neuroscientists fully engage with the functional‐cognitive perspective.
Optimization of crude oil degradation by Dietzia cinnamea KA1, capable of biosurfactant production
Authors: Kavynifard Amirarsalan , Ebrahimipour Gholamhossein , Ghasempour Alireza
Published: November 2015

The aim of this study was isolation and characterization of a crude oil degrader and biosurfactant‐producing bacterium, along with optimization of conditions for crude oil degradation. Among 11 isolates, 5 were able to emulsify crude oil in Minimal Salt Medium (MSM) among which one isolate, named KA1, showed the highest potency for growth rate and biodegradation. The isolate was identified as Dietzia cinnamea KA1 using morphological and biochemical characteristics and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The optimal conditions were 510 mM NaCl, pH 9.0, 35 °C, and minimal requirement of 46.5 mM NH4Cl and 2.10 mM NaH2PO4. Gravimetric test and Gas chromatography–Mass spectroscopy technique (GC‐MS) showed that Dietzia cinnamea KA1 was able to utilize and degrade 95.7% of the crude oil after 5 days, under the optimal conditions. The isolate was able to grow and produce biosurfactant when cultured in MSM supplemented with crude oil, glycerol or whey as the sole carbon sources, but bacterial growth was occurred using molasses with no biosurfactant production. This is the first report of biosurfactant production by D. cinnamea using crude oil, glycerol and whey and the first study to report a species of Dietzia degrading a wide range of hydrocarbons in a short time.
Multimedia in the informed consent process for endoscopic sinus surgery: A randomized control trial
Authors: Siu Jennifer M. , Rotenberg Brian W. , Franklin Jason H. , Sowerby Leigh J
Published: November 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

To determine patient recall of specific risks associated with endoscopic sinus surgery and whether an adjunct multimedia education module is an effective patient tool in enhancing the standard informed consent process.

Study Design

Prospective, randomized, controlled trial.

Methods

Fifty consecutive adult patients scheduled for endoscopic sinus surgery at a rhinology clinic of a tertiary care hospital were recruited for this study. Informed consent was studied by comparing the number of risks recalled when patients had a verbal discussion in conjunction with a 6‐minute interactive module or the verbal discussion alone. Early recall was measured immediately following the informed consent process, and delayed recall was measured 3 to 4 weeks after patient preference details were also collected.

Results

Early risk recall in the multimedia group was significantly higher than the control group (P = .0036); however, there was no difference between the groups in delayed risk recall. Seventy‐six percent of participants expressed interest in viewing the multimedia module if available online between the preoperative and procedural day. Sixty‐eight percent of patients preferred having the multimedia module as an adjunct to the informed consent process as opposed to the multimedia consent process alone.

Conclusions

There is an early improvement in overall risk recall in patients who complete an interactive multimedia module, with a clear patient preference for this method. Here we emphasize the well‐known challenges of patient education and demonstrate the effectiveness of integrating technology into clinical practice in order to enhance the informed consent process.

Level of Evidence

1b Laryngoscope, 126:1273–1278, 2016
Surface Charge Convertible and Biodegradable Synthetic Zwitterionic Nanoparticles for Enhancing Cellular Drug Uptake
Authors: Wu Luyan , Ni Caihua , Zhang Liping , Shi Gang , Bai Xue , Zhou Yamin , He Fei
Published: November 2015

To enhance drug cellular uptake, a biodegradable terpolymer is synthesized using taurine, N,N‐Bis (acryloyl) cystamine, and dodecylamine as raw materials by Michael addition terpolymerization. The terpolymer is transformed to zwitterionic nanoparticles (NPs) through self‐assembly. The surface charge of the NPs is convertible from negative at pH 7.4 to positive at pH 6.5, which endows the NPs’ excellent nonfouling feature in bloodstream and effective uptake in tumor cells. The NPs display varied morphologies from solid micelles to polymersomes and nanorods depending on molar ratios of the structural units involved. The NPs can be biodegraded in l‐glutathione (GSH) solution due to the split of disulfide bonds in main chains of the terpolymers. The NPs demonstrate good pH/reducing responsiveness in drug delivery and can be potentially used as anticancer drug vehicles for enhancement of cellular uptake of anticancer drug.

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miR‐143 suppresses epithelial–mesenchymal transition and inhibits tumor growth of breast cancer through down‐regulation of ERK5
Authors: Zhai Limin , Ma Chuanxiang , Li Wentong , Yang Shuo , Liu Zhijun
Published: November 2015

Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a pivotal role in the development of cancer invasion and metastasis. Many studies have significantly enhanced the knowledge on EMT through the characterization of microRNAs (miRNAs) influencing the signaling pathways and downstream events that define EMT on a molecular level. In this study, we found that miR‐143 suppressed EMT. Up‐regulating miR‐143 enhanced E‐cadherin‐mediated cell–cell adhesion ability, reduced mesenchymal markers, and decreased cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro. In vivo, the xenograft mouse model also unveiled the suppressive effects of miR‐143 on tumor growth. Additionally, we demonstrated that up‐regulating extracellular signal regulated kinase 5 (ERK5) was associated with poor prognosis of breast cancer patients. Moreover, we observed an inverse correlation between miR‐143 and ERK5 in breast cancer tissues. miR‐143 directly targeted seed sequences in the 3′‐untranslated regions of ERK5. Furthermore, we revealed that the downstream molecules of glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK‐3β)/Snail signaling were involved in EMT and modulated by ERK5. In summary, our findings demonstrated that miR‐143 down‐regulated its target ERK5, leading to the suppression of EMT induced by GSK‐3β/Snail signaling of breast cancer. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tacrolimus‐Induced Cardiomyopathy in an Adult Renal Transplant Recipient
Authors: Bowman Lyndsey J. , Brennan Daniel C. , Delos‐Santos Rowena , LaRue Shane J. , Anwar Siddiq , Klein Christina L.
Published: November 2015

Tacrolimus‐induced cardiomyopathy (TICM) is a rare but serious adverse effect of tacrolimus, which has been described primarily in pediatric non‐renal transplant recipients. We describe a case of TICM in an adult renal transplant recipient that resulted in allograft dysfunction and multiple hospital admissions for heart failure exacerbation. Prompt and complete reversal of TICM occurred after tacrolimus discontinuation. Although tacrolimus‐induced cardiomyopathy is reversible, availability of alternative immunosuppressants is limited, particularly in the setting of renal dysfunction. Available studies and patient‐specific factors must be considered when determining an alternative maintenance immunosuppression regimen. We chose to use belatacept as alternative immunosuppression in this patient with TICM. Over the next 3 years, the patient remained free of hospital admissions and acute rejection, and demonstrated superior renal allograft function than was observed before her first heart failure admission. We believe that belatacept is an acceptable alternative to tacrolimus therapy for resolution of TICM.
Formation and mechanism for reactions of ring‐substituted phenonium ions in aqueous solution
Authors: Tsuji Yutaka , Richard John P.
Published: November 2015

The results of studies on the structure and reactivity of spiro[5.2]oct‐5,7‐diene‐4yl carbocation [phenonium ion] have had a significant impact on the course of discussion about the distinction between classical and nonclassical carbocations. This minireview will present a brief overview of the structure, bonding, and reactivity of ring‐substituted phenonium ions (X‐4+), with an emphasis on work completed since 2004. The discussion will focus on the development of new experimental protocol for determination of the selectivity for addition of nucleophilic anions to X‐4+ in aqueous solution. The existing relationships between carbocation lifetime and nucleophilic selectivity, and the known lifetime of ca 140 s for spiro[2.5]oct‐4,7‐diene‐6‐one provide rough estimates of the lifetimes for 4‐Me‐4+ and 4‐MeO‐4+ in aqueous solution. Evidence is presented that nucleophile addition to X‐4+ proceeds through an “exploded” transition state, with relatively weak bonding of the nucleophile and leaving group, and the development of significant positive charge at the reacting primary cyclopropyl carbon. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Liquid‐Crystal‐Mediated Self‐Assembly of Porous α‐Fe2O3 Nanorods on PEDOT:PSS‐Functionalized Graphene as a Flexible Ternary Architecture for Capacitive Energy Storage
Authors: Islam Md. Monirul , Cardillo Dean , Akhter Taslima , Aboutalebi Seyed Hamed , Liu Hua Kun , Konstantinov Konstantin , Dou Shi Xue
Published: November 2015

A novel aqueous‐based self‐assembly approach to a composite of iron oxide nanorods on conductive‐polymer (CP)‐functionalized, ultralarge graphene oxide (GO) liquid crystals (LCs) is demonstrated here for the fabrication of a flexible hybrid material for charge capacitive application. Uniform decoration of α‐Fe2O3 nanorods on a poly(3,4‐ethylene‐dioxythiophene): poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS)‐functionalized, ultralarge GO scaffold results in a 3D interconnected layer‐by‐layer (LBL) architecture. This advanced interpenetrating network of ternary components is lightweight, foldable, and possesses highly conductive pathways for facile ion transportation and charge storage, making it promising for high‐performance energy‐storage applications. Having such structural merits and good synergistic effects, the flexible architecture exhibits a high specific discharge capacitance of 875 F g−1 and excellent volumetric specific capacitance of 868 F cm−3 at 5 mV s−1, as well as a promising energy density of 118 W h kg−1 (at 0.5 A g−1) and promising cyclability, with capacity retention of 100% after 5000 charge–discharge (CD) cycles. This synthesis method provides a simple, yet efficient approach for the solution‐processed LBL insertion of the hematite nanorods (HNR) into CP‐functionalized novel composite structure. It provides great promise for the fabrication of a variety of metal‐oxide (MO)‐nanomaterial‐based binder and current collector‐free flexible composite electrodes for high‐performance energy‐storage applications.
Mass spectrometry based translational proteomics for biomarker discovery and application in colorectal cancer
Authors: Ma Hong , Chen Guilin , Guo Mingquan
Published: November 2015

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer‐related death in the world. Clinically, early detection of the disease is the most effective approach to tackle this tough challenge. Discovery and development of reliable and effective diagnostic tools for the assessment of prognosis and prediction of response to drug therapy are urgently needed for personalized therapies and better treatment outcomes. Among many ongoing efforts in search for potential CRC biomarkers, MS‐based translational proteomics provides a unique opportunity for the discovery and application of protein biomarkers toward better CRC early detection and treatment. This review updates most recent studies that use preclinical models and clinical materials for the identification of CRC‐related protein markers. Some new advances in the development of CRC protein markers such as CRC stem cell related protein markers, SRM/MRM‐MS and MS cytometry approaches are also discussed in order to address future directions and challenges from bench translational research to bedside clinical application of CRC biomarkers.
Field‐evolved resistance to Cry1Ab maize by Spodoptera frugiperda in Brazil
Authors: Omoto Celso , Bernardi Oderlei , Salmeron Eloisa , Sorgatto Rodrigo J , Dourado Patrick M , Crivellari Augusto , Carvalho Renato A , Willse Alan , Martinelli Samuel , Head Graham P
Published: November 2015

BACKGROUND

The first Bt maize in Brazil was launched in 2008 and contained the MON 810 event, which expresses Cry1Ab protein. Although the Cry1Ab dose in MON 810 is not high against fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith), MON 810 provided commercial levels of control. To support insect resistance management in Brazil, the baseline and ongoing susceptibility of FAW was examined using protein bioassays, and the level of control and life history parameters of FAW were evaluated on MON 810 maize.

RESULTS

Baseline diet overlay assays with Cry1Ab (16 µg cm−2) caused 76.3% mortality to field FAW populations sampled in 2009. Moderate mortality (48.8%) and significant growth inhibition (88.4%) were verified in leaf‐disc bioassays. In greenhouse trials, MON 810 had significantly less damage than non‐Bt maize. The surviving FAW larvae on MON 810 (22.4%) had a 5.5 day increase in life cycle time and a 24% reduction in population growth rate. Resistance monitoring (2010–2015) showed a significant reduction in Cry1Ab susceptibility of FAW over time. Additionally, a significant reduction in the field efficacy of MON 810 maize against FAW was observed in different regions from crop season 2009 to 2013.

CONCLUSIONS

The decrease in susceptibility to Cry1Ab was expected, but the specific contributions to this resistance by MON 810 maize cannot be distinguished from cross‐resistance to Cry1Ab caused by exposure to Cry1F maize. Technologies combining multiple novel insecticidal traits with no cross‐resistance to the current Cry1 proteins and high activity against the same target pests should be pursued in Brazil and similar environments. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Beam matching: A method to study phonon transport through interfaces and multilayer structures
Authors: Basu Debanjan , Blöchl Peter E.
Published: November 2015

Structuring materials is one mechanism to influence the thermal conductivity and thus thermoelectric efficiency. In order to investigate the scattering of phonons in multilayer structures we developed a beam matching technique, which is based on the concept of individual phonons and their scattering at interfaces. One of the major goals is to efficiently determine the complex band structure of the bulk materials. The complex band structure is determined using selected k‐points on a triangulated grid in the complex plane of wave vectors perpendicular to the interface. Matching the phonon modes at an interface is translated to a singular value problem. Its null‐vectors provide the coupling coefficients of the phonon modes across the interface. Besides giving explicit access to the modes as they scatter at the interface, the technique provides the transfer matrices, that provide the transmission coefficient of any multilayer structure. The transmission coefficient, in turn, yields the phononic thermal conductance for coherent transport. The knowledge of the matched phonons forms the basis of investigating incoherent transport under the influence of phonon–phonon or impurity scattering.