bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review: An urgent need for research on factors impacting adherence to and retention in care among HIV‐positive youth and adolescents from key populations
Authors: Lall Priya , Lim Sin How , Khairuddin Norliana , Kamarulzaman Adeeba
Published: February 2015

Introduction

The 50% increase in HIV‐related deaths in youth and adolescents (aged 10–24) from 2005 to 2012 highlights the need to improve HIV treatment and care in this population, including treatment adherence and retention. Youth and adolescents from key populations or young key populations (YKP) in particular are highly stigmatized and may face additional barrier(s) in adhering to HIV treatment and services. We reviewed the current knowledge on treatment adherence and retention in HIV care among YKP to identify gaps in the literature and suggest future directions to improve HIV care for YKP.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive literature search for YKP and their adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and retention in HIV care on PsycInfo (Ovid), PubMed and Google Scholar using combinations of the keywords HIV/AIDS, ART, adolescents, young adults, adherence (or compliance), retention, men who have sex with men, transgender, injection drug users, people who inject drugs and prisoners. We included empirical studies on key populations defined by WHO; included the terms youth and adolescents and/or aged between 10 and 24; examined adherence to or retention in HIV care; and published in English‐language journals. All articles were coded using NVivo.

Results and discussion

The systematic search yielded 10 articles on YKP and 16 articles on behaviourally infected youth and adolescents from 1999 to 2014. We found no studies reporting on youth and adolescents identified as sex workers, transgender people and prisoners. From existing literature, adherence to ART was reported to be influenced by age, access to healthcare, the burden of multiple vulnerabilities, policy involving risk behaviours and mental health. A combination of two or more of these factors negatively impacted adherence to ART among YKP. Collectively, these studies demonstrated that future programmes need to be tailored specifically to YKP to ensure adherence.

Conclusions

There is an urgent need for more systematic research in YKP. Current limited evidence suggests that healthcare delivery should be tailored to the unique needs of YKP. Thus, research on YKP could be used to inform future interventions to improve access to treatment and management of co‐morbidities related to HIV, to ease the transition from paediatric to adult care and to increase uptake of secondary prevention methods.
HIV testing and linkage to services for youth
Authors: Kurth Ann E , Lally Michelle A , Choko Augustine T , Inwani Irene W , Fortenberry J Dennis
Published: February 2015

Introduction

HIV testing is the portal to serostatus knowledge that can empower linkage to care for HIV treatment and HIV prevention. However, young people's access to HIV testing is uneven worldwide. The objective of this paper is to review the context and concerns faced by youth around HIV testing in low‐ as well as high‐income country settings.

Discussion

HIV testing is a critical entry point for primary and secondary prevention as well as care and treatment for young people including key populations of vulnerable youth. We provide a framework for thinking about the role of testing in the continuum of prevention and care for young people. Brief case study examples from Kenya and the US illustrate some of the common barriers and issues involved for young people.

Conclusions

Young people worldwide need more routine access to HIV testing services that effectively address the developmental, socio‐political and other issues faced by young women and men.
“We don't need services. We have no problems”: exploring the experiences of young people who inject drugs in accessing harm reduction services
Authors: Krug Anita , Hildebrand Mikaela , Sun Nina
Published: February 2015

Introduction

Evidence suggests that people who inject drugs often begin their drug use and injecting practices in adolescence, yet there are limited data available on the HIV epidemic and the responses for this population. The comprehensive package of interventions for the prevention, treatment and care of HIV infection among people who inject drugs first laid out in 2009 (revised in 2012) by World Health Organization, United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime and Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS, does not consider the unique needs of adolescent and young people. In order to better understand the values and preferences of young people who inject drugs in accessing harm reduction services and support, we undertook a series of community consultations with young people with experience of injecting drugs during adolescence.

Methods

Community consultations (4–14 persons) were held in 14 countries. Participants were recruited using a combined criterion and maximum variation sampling strategy. Data were analyzed using collaborative qualitative data analysis. Frequency analysis of themes was conducted.

Results

Nineteen community consultations were organized with a total of 132 participants. All participants had experienced injecting drugs before the age of 18. They had the following age distribution: 18–20 (37%), 21–25 (48%) and 26–30 (15%). Of the participants, 73.5% were male while 25.7% were female, with one transgender participant. Barriers to accessing the comprehensive package included: lack of information and knowledge of services, age restrictions on services, belief that services were not needed, fear of law enforcement, fear of stigma, lack of concern, high cost, lack of outreach, lack of knowledge of HCV/TB and lack of youth friendly services.

Conclusions

The consultations provide a rare insight into the lived experiences of adolescents who inject drugs and highlight the dissonance between their reality and current policy and programmatic approaches. Findings suggest that harm reduction and HIV policies and programmes should adapt the comprehensive package to reach young people and explore linkages to other sectors such as education and employment to ensure they are fully supported and protected. Continued participation of the community of young people who inject drugs can help ensure policy and programmes respond to the social exclusion and denial of rights and prevent HIV infection among adolescents who inject drugs.
The small molecule ISRIB reverses the effects of eIF2α phosphorylation on translation and stress granule assembly
Authors: Sidrauski Carmela , McGeachy Anna M , Ingolia Nicholas T , Walter Peter
Published: February 2015

Previously, we identified ISRIB as a potent inhibitor of the integrated stress response (ISR) and showed that ISRIB makes cells resistant to the effects of eIF2α phosphorylation and enhances long-term memory in rodents (Sidrauski et al., 2013). Here, we show by genome-wide in vivo ribosome profiling that translation of a restricted subset of mRNAs is induced upon ISR activation. ISRIB substantially reversed the translational effects elicited by phosphorylation of eIF2α and induced no major changes in translation or mRNA levels in unstressed cells. eIF2α phosphorylation-induced stress granule (SG) formation was blocked by ISRIB. Strikingly, ISRIB addition to stressed cells with pre-formed SGs induced their rapid disassembly, liberating mRNAs into the actively translating pool. Restoration of mRNA translation and modulation of SG dynamics may be an effective treatment of neurodegenerative diseases characterized by eIF2α phosphorylation, SG formation, and cognitive loss.
Influence of Various Breast Factors on the Quality of Strain Elastograms
Authors: Song Guo , Jing Li , Yan Ma , Cong Shang , Xuejiao Wang
Published: February 2015

Objectives

To determine the influence of the depth and size of breast lesions, the thickness of the adipose layer, and the thickness of the breast on the quality of strain elastograms obtained from Chinese women.

Methods

Ultrasound elastography was conducted on 326 breast lesions in 272 women. The quality of the images was evaluated according to criteria for satisfactory and unsatisfactory elastograms. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine the relationship between measured factors and image quality.

Results

Among the 326 lesions, 300 (92%) had satisfactory images, and 26 (8%) had unsatisfactory images. Univariate analyses indicated that all of the data from the unsatisfactory group were higher than the data from the satisfactory group in terms of the distance from the deep and superficial edges of the lesion to the skin, the thickness of the adipose layer anterior to the lesion, and the breast thickness at the location of the lesion (all P < .05 ). Lesions in the unsatisfactory group were larger than those in the satisfactory group when the distance from the deep edge of the lesion to the skin was between 2.1 and 2.5 cm and the distance from the superficial edge of the lesion to the skin was between 1.6 and 2.3 cm (all P< .05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that both the distance from the superficial edge of the lesion to the skin (odds ratio, 18.335; P = .029) and the breast thickness at the location of the lesion (odds ratio, 20.447; P < .001) were the independent influencing factors that affected the quality of elastograms.

Conclusions

Satisfactory images are more easily acquired if the lesion is relatively superficial or located in areas of thinner breast thickness. Furthermore, among deeper lesions, satisfactory images are more common in large lesions.
Diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Nodules in Patients With Chronic Liver Disease Using Contrast‐Enhanced Sonography
Authors: Suzuki Kunio , Okuda Yorihide , Ota Makiyo , Kojima Fumiyoshi , Horimoto Masayoshi
Published: February 2015

Objectives

To determine the usefulness of contrast‐enhanced sonography using the perfluorobutane contrast agent Sonazoid (Daiichi‐Sankyo, Tokyo, Japan) for establishing the diagnosis and cellular differentiation of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with chronic liver disease.

Methods

Patients with chronic liver disease in whom hepatic nodules were detected during screening for hepatocellular carcinoma were examined by imaging modalities, including contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CT), contrast‐enhanced sonography, and contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging. Nodules with negative imaging findings were further investigated with core biopsy or followed at our hospital. Between April 2007 and March 2011, all patients with hepatic nodules who underwent core biopsy of the nodules or hepatic resection for hepatocellular carcinoma were reviewed. Fifty‐nine nodules from 47 patients with 42 contrast‐enhanced sonographic findings and 41 contrast‐enhanced CT findings were examined. Arterial‐ and Kupffer‐phase enhancement patterns of the nodules on contrast‐enhanced sonography were compared with the diagnosis and cellular differentiation of hepatocellular carcinoma. Arterial‐ and late‐phase enhancement patterns on contrast‐enhanced CT were also compared with histologic findings.

Results

The combination of hyperenhancement in the arterial phase and hypoenhancement in the Kupffer phase on contrast‐enhanced sonography (n = 11) correlated with moderately differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma (P = .0028, Fisher exact test). The combination of hypoenhancement in the arterial phase and isoenhancement in the Kupffer phase on contrast‐enhanced sonography (n = 14) correlated with well‐differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma (P = .0006, Fisher exact test). The combination of high density in the arterial phase and low density in the late phase on contrast‐enhanced CT (n = 21) correlated with moderately differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma (P = .0059, Fisher exact test), but no enhancement pattern combination on contrast‐enhanced CT correlated with well‐differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma.

Conclusions

Sonazoid contrast‐enhanced sonography is useful for diagnosis of well‐differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma.
Geochemical multielement signatures of glacial and interglacial facies of the Okhotsk Sea deepwater sediments during the past 350 kyr: A response to global climate changes at the orbital and millennial scales
Authors: Chebykin Eugene P. , Gorbarenko Sergey A. , Stepanova Ol'ga G. , Panov Vsevolod S. , Goldberg Evgeny L.
Published: February 2015

The previously dated deepwater sediment core MR06‐04 PC‐7R (length 1723 cm; 350 kyr) recovered from the central Okhotsk Sea (OS) was analyzed for biogenic compounds and for 63 chemical elements (using the inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry method) with a high resolution (1 cm; ~200 years). A one box model with two main members” and mathematical methods (based on multielemental composition of sediments) for the calculation of weight fractions (at each time slice) of two main types of geochemical facies that dominate during considerably diverse climatic periods (glacial maxima and interglacial optima) were proposed and tested. This model can be applied to other analogous natural systems whose sedimentation is driven by two main types of geochemical facies. The application of the developed model to the studied core revealed that variations of weight fractions of the typical interglacial and glacial geochemical facies in the sediments along the core depth (named as warm and cold “covariators,” respectively) change synchronously with global and regional climate variability. Profiles of warm and inversed cold covariators coincide tightly, and their values increase during warm marine isotope stages and substages and decrease during cold ones over the last 350 kyr. Millennial scale changes in covariators had occurred simultaneously with abrupt variability in the OS productivity and sediment lithology and with millennial global climate variability. Some discrepancies in the warm and inversed cold covariators calculated using specific mathematical treatments revealed the episodic influence of volcanogenic matter presented in the core by visible tephra layers and cryptotephras.
Spin‐up behavior and effects of initial conditions for an integrated hydrologic model
Authors: Seck Alimatou , Welty Claire , Maxwell Reed M.
Published: February 2015

Initial conditions have been shown to have a strong effect on outputs of surface water models, but their impact on integrated hydrologic models is not well documented. We investigated the effects of initial conditions on an integrated hydrologic model of a 5632 km2 domain in the northeastern U.S. Simulations were run for the year 1980 using four initial conditions spanning a range of average depth to water table, including 1 m (“wet”), 3m, 5m, and 7 m (“dry”) below land surface. Model outputs showed significant effects of initial conditions on basin‐averaged variables such as subsurface storage, surface storage, and surface runoff, with the greatest impact observed on surface storage and runoff. Effects of initial conditions were related to meteorological conditions, with precipitation reducing the effects of initial conditions on surface storage and runoff. Additionally, feedbacks between soil moisture and land‐energy fluxes affected the impacts of initial conditions: higher temperatures magnified the differences in storage, recharge, and discharge among the four initial‐condition scenarios. Ten year recursive runs were conducted for the wet and dry scenarios. Spin‐up times varied by model components and were considerably smaller for land‐surface states and fluxes. Spin‐up for dry initial conditions was slower than for wet initial conditions, indicating longer system memory for dry initial conditions. These variations in persistence of initial conditions should be taken into consideration when designing model initialization approaches. More broadly, this behavior is indicative of increased persistence of the effects of dry years as opposed to wet years in hydrologic systems.
Effects of small thundercloud electrostatic fields on the ionospheric density profile
Authors: Salem Mohammad A. , Liu Ningyu , Rassoul Hamid K.
Published: February 2015

Small electrostatic fields of values not strong enough to activate electron impact ionization, attachment, and detachment processes can be established in the upper atmosphere by underlying thunderstorms. This paper investigates their effects on the ionospheric densities by using a simplified ion chemistry model. The modeling results indicate that under the steady state condition, the nighttime electron density profile can be reduced by up to ∼40% or enhanced by a factor of up to ∼6 because of the variation of the three‐body electron attachment rate constant with the electric field.
Modern Applications of Plasmonic Nanoparticles: From Energy to Health
Authors: de Aberasturi Dorleta Jimenez , Serrano‐Montes Ana Belén , Liz‐Marzán Luis M.
Published: February 2015

Nanoplasmonics is a rapidly growing field of research that opens up multiple opportunities toward practical applications. The understanding of the extreme confinement of light at the nanoscale has facilitated the development of a wide range of interesting materials for many different fields. Nanoparticles of noble metals, such as gold or silver, present unique optical properties that may end up making a large impact on our daily lives. Modern biomedical techniques can successfully treat cancer via plasmon‐mediated photothermal therapy, in which metal nanoprobes act as intense heaters to kill cancer cells. Moreover, our society is also seeing an increasing interest in the development of alternative (green) energy sources, where plasmonic nanostructures are also considered to provide an advantage, e.g., improving the performance and feasibility of photovoltaic devices. In this progress report, relevant advances and applications of plasmonic nanoparticles, from energy to health, are discussed, and their potential implications in future society are highlighted.
The prognostic value of positron emission tomography performed after two courses (INTERIM‐PET) of standard therapy on treatment outcome in early stage Hodgkin lymphoma: A multicentric study by the fondazione italiana linfomi (FIL)
Authors: Rigacci Luigi , Puccini Benedetta , Zinzani Pier Luigi , Biggi Alberto , Castagnoli Antonio , Merli Francesco , Balzarotti Monica , Stelitano Caterina , Spina Michele , Vitolo Umberto , Stefoni Vittorio , Levis Alessandro , Gotti Manuel , Rosaria Sancetta , Maria Stefani Piero , Bosi Alberto , Gallamini Andrea
Published: February 2015

This retrospective study included 246 patients with a new diagnosis of Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL) with a localized‐stage (IA‐IIA), consecutively admitted from January 2002 to December 2008, by twelve Italian hematological centers on behalf of Fondazione Italiana Linfomi (FIL).

Patients were staged at baseline and after two cycles of chemotherapy with PET. All patients were treated with four cycles of ABVD followed by involved‐field radiotherapy. No treatment change, based on PET‐2 results was allowed. Endpoint of the study was the predictive role of PET‐2 on 2‐y failure‐free survival (FFS).

PET‐2 was positive in 36 patients (15%) and negative in 210. After a mean follow‐up of 46 (3–105) months 19/36 PET‐2 positive patients progressed or relapsed and 17 achieved and maintained a CCR. The positive and negative predictive value of a PET2 was 53% and 95%, respectively. The sensibility, specificity and accuracy of PET2 were 65.5%, 92% and 89%, respectively. PET‐2 positive scans were centrally reviewed according to the recently defined Deauville Criteria. Upon review the PPV and NPV was 73% and 96% overall. Factors with prognostic significance for progression in univariate analysis were a positive PET‐2 (P = 0.000) and the presence of bulky disease (P < 0.01). In a multivariate analysis the only factor that affected negatively FFS was a positive PET‐2 (P = 0.000).

This study confirms that interim‐PET could be considered a prognostic test also in early stage HL, but is unlikely to be a factor that will justify the change of therapeutical approach. Am. J. Hematol. 90:499–503, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Traces of forgotten historical events in mountain communities in Central Italy: A genetic insight
Authors: Messina Francesco , Finocchio Andrea , Rolfo Mario Federico , De Angelis Flavio , Rapone Cesare , Coletta Martina , Martínez‐Labarga Cristina , Biondi Gianfranco , Berti Andrea , Rickards Olga
Published: February 2015

Objectives

Analysis of human genetic variation in mountain communities can shed light on the peopling of mountainous regions, perhaps revealing whether the remote geographic location spared them from outside invasion and preserved their gene pool from admixture. In this study, we created a model to assess genetic traces of historical events by reconstructing the paternal and maternal genetic history of seven small mountain villages in inland valleys of Central Italy.

Methods

The communities were selected for their geographic isolation, attested biodemographic stability, and documented history prior to the Roman conquest. We studied the genetic structure by analyzing two hypervariable segments (HVS‐I and HVS‐II) of the mtDNA D‐loop and several informative single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the mtDNA coding region in 346 individuals, in addition to 17 short tandem repeats (STRs) and Y‐chromosome SNPs in 237 male individuals.

Results

For both uniparental markers, most of the haplogroups originated in Western Europe while some Near Eastern haplogroups were identified at low frequencies. However, there was an evident genetic similarity between the Central Italian samples and Near Eastern populations mainly in the male genetic pool.

Conclusions

The samples highlight an overall European genetic pattern both for mtDNA and Y chromosome. Notwithstanding this scenario, Y chromosome haplogroup Q, a common paternal lineage in Central/Western Asia but almost Europe‐wide absent, was found, suggesting that Central Italy could have hosted a settlement from Anatolia that might be supported by cultural, topographic and genetic evidence. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 27:508–519, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rare variants in γ‐aminobutyric acid type A receptor genes in rolandic epilepsy and related syndromes
Authors: Reinthaler Eva M. , Dejanovic Borislav , Lal Dennis , Semtner Marcus , Merkler Yvonne , Reinhold Annika , Pittrich Dorothea A. , Hotzy Christoph , Feucht Martha , Steinböck Hannelore , Gruber‐Sedlmayr Ursula , Ronen Gabriel M. , Neophytou Birgit , Geldner Julia , Haberlandt Edda , Muhle Hiltrud , Ikram M. Arfan , van Duijn Cornelia M. , Uitterlinden Andre G. , Hofman Albert , Altmüller Janine , Kawalia Amit , Toliat Mohammad R. ,   EuroEPINOMICS Consortium, Nürnberg Peter , Lerche Holger , Nothnagel Michael , Thiele Holger , Sander Thomas , Meier Jochen C. , Schwarz Günter , Neubauer Bernd A. , Zimprich Fritz
Published: February 2015

Objective

To test whether mutations in γ‐aminobutyric acid type A receptor (GABAA‐R) subunit genes contribute to the etiology of rolandic epilepsy (RE) or its atypical variants (ARE).

Methods

We performed exome sequencing to compare the frequency of variants in 18 GABAA‐R genes in 204 European patients with RE/ARE versus 728 platform‐matched controls. Identified GABRG2 variants were functionally assessed for protein stability, trafficking, postsynaptic clustering, and receptor function.

Results

Of 18 screened GABAA‐R genes, we detected an enrichment of rare variants in the GABRG2 gene in RE/ARE patients (5 of 204, 2.45%) in comparison to controls (1 of 723, 0.14%; odds ratio = 18.07, 95% confidence interval = 2.01–855.07, p = 0.0024, pcorr = 0.043). We identified a GABRG2 splice variant (c.549‐3T>G) in 2 unrelated patients as well as 3 nonsynonymous variations in this gene (p.G257R, p.R323Q, p.I389V). Functional assessment showed reduced surface expression of p.G257R and decreased GABA‐evoked currents for p.R323Q. The p.G257R mutation displayed diminished levels of palmitoylation, a post‐translational modification crucial for trafficking of proteins to the cell membrane. Enzymatically raised palmitoylation levels restored the surface expression of the p.G257R variant γ2 subunit.

Interpretation

The statistical association and the functional evidence suggest that mutations of the GABRG2 gene may increase the risk of RE/ARE. Restoring the impaired membrane trafficking of some GABRG2 mutations by enhancing palmitoylation might be an interesting therapeutic approach to reverse the pathogenic effect of such mutants. Ann Neurol 2015;77:972–986
Rhodium‐Catalyzed [(3+2)+2] Carbocyclization of Alkynylidenecyclopropanes with Substituted Allenes: Stereoselective Construction of Tri‐ and Tetrasubstituted Exocyclic Olefins
Authors: Evans P. Andrew , Negru Daniela E. , Shang Deju
Published: February 2015

The development of the stereoselective rhodium‐catalyzed [(3+2)+2] carbocyclization of alkynylidenecyclopropanes (ACPs) with substituted allenes is described. This work demonstrates that activated and unactivated allenes preferentially undergo carbometalation at the distal terminus to generate tri‐ and tetrasubstituted exocyclic olefins with a neutral rhodium catalyst. In addition, this method provides a strategy for the total synthesis of the guaiane family of sesquiterpenes, which are not directly accessible using alkynes as exogenous π‐components. Finally, the preparation of the bicyclo[5.4.0]undecane ring system using a homologated ACP tether serves to further illustrate the versatility of this approach.
Microimaging of Transient Concentration Profiles of Reactant and Product Molecules during Catalytic Conversion in Nanoporous Materials
Authors: Titze Tobias , Chmelik Christian , Kullmann Jens , Prager Lutz , Miersemann Erich , Gläser Roger , Enke Dirk , Weitkamp Jens , Kärger Jörg
Published: February 2015

Microimaging by IR microscopy is applied to the recording of the evolution of the concentration profiles of reactant and product molecules during catalytic reaction, notably during the hydrogenation of benzene to cyclohexane by nickel dispersed within a nanoporous glass. Being defined as the ratio between the reaction rate in the presence of and without diffusion limitation, the effectiveness factors of catalytic reactions were previously determined by deliberately varying the extent of transport limitation by changing a suitably chosen system parameter, such as the particle size and by comparison of the respective reaction rates. With the novel options of microimaging, effectiveness factors become accessible in a single measurement by simply monitoring the distribution of the reactant molecules over the catalyst particles.
Fast and Simple Preparation of Iron‐Based Thin Films as Highly Efficient Water‐Oxidation Catalysts in Neutral Aqueous Solution
Authors: Wu Yizhen , Chen Mingxing , Han Yongzhen , Luo Hongxia , Su Xiaojun , Zhang Ming‐Tian , Lin Xiaohuan , Sun Junliang , Wang Lei , Deng Liang , Zhang Wei , Cao Rui
Published: February 2015

Water oxidation is the key step in natural and artificial photosynthesis for solar‐energy conversion. As this process is thermodynamically unfavorable and is challenging from a kinetic point of view, the development of highly efficient catalysts with low energy cost is a subject of fundamental significance. Herein, we report on iron‐based films as highly efficient water‐oxidation catalysts. The films can be quickly deposited onto electrodes from FeII ions in acetate buffer at pH 7.0 by simple cyclic voltammetry. The extremely low iron loading on the electrodes is critical for improved atom efficiency for catalysis. Our results showed that this film could catalyze water oxidation in neutral phosphate solution with a turnover frequency (TOF) of 756 h−1 at an applied overpotential of 530 mV. The significance of this approach includes the use of earth‐abundant iron, the fast and simple method for catalyst preparation, the low catalyst loading, and the large TOF for O2 evolution in neutral aqueous media.
Aromatic Amide‐Derived Non‐Biaryl Atropisomers as Highly Efficient Ligands in Silver‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Cycloaddition Reactions
Authors: Bai Xing‐Feng , Song Tao , Xu Zheng , Xia Chun‐Gu , Huang Wei‐Sheng , Xu Li‐Wen
Published: February 2015

The synthesis of a series of aromatic amide‐derived non‐biaryl atropisomers with a phosphine group and multiple stereogenic centers is reported. The novel phosphine ligands exhibit high diastereo‐ and enantioselectivities (up to >99:1 d.r., 95–99 % ee) as well as yields in the silver‐catalyzed asymmetric [3+2] cycloaddition of aldiminoesters with nitroalkenes, which provides a highly enantioselective strategy for the synthesis of optically pure nitro‐substituted pyrrolidines. In addition, the experimental results with regard to the carbon stereogenic center as well as the amide stereochemistry confirmed the potential of hemilabile atropisomers as chiral ligand in catalytic asymmetric [3+2] cycloaddition reaction.
Thermal and shape memory properties of cyanate/polybutadiene epoxy/polysebacic polyanhydride copolymer
Authors: Wang Kun , Zhu Guangming , Wang Yongkun , Ren Fang
Published: February 2015

A novel thermal‐induced shape memory polymer was synthesized by copolymerization of a new kind of epoxy resin‐polybutadiene epoxy (PBEP), bisphenol A‐type cyanate ester (BACE), and polysebacic polyanhydride (PSPA) with different mass ratios. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), bending test, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and shape memory property were investigated systematically. It was found that the PSPA significantly enhanced the bending strength and flexural modulus. The DMA results showed that the glass transition temperature reduced with increasing content of PSPA. Furthermore, the shape memory tests proved that the copolymer possessed excellent shape memory properties. The shape recovery time decreased with increasing content of PSPA and temperature. The shape memory rate increased as the PSPA content increased. The shape recovery ratio decreased with increasing cycle times. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42045.
Changes and trends in maximum, minimum and mean temperature series in Iran
Authors: Ghasemi Ahmad Reza
Published: February 2015

The variations of Iran temperature is studied during 1961–2010. Mann–Kendall tests show a general dominating positive temperature trend over most parts of Iran with the rate of change varying from 0.09 to 0.38 °C decade−1. Also, the minimum temperature increase (0.34 °C decade−1) is greater than maximum temperature (0.15 °C decade−1). A more definite trend of warming occurs in summer and spring than winter and autumn. Moreover, the results show that the warm climate regions in Iran are warming at a higher rate than cold climate regions. Pettitt's test also suggesting the abrupt upward change in mean annual temperature, occurs in the late 1990s.
Development of an in vivo glucosylation platform by coupling production to growth: Production of phenolic glucosides by a glycosyltransferase of Vitis vinifera
Authors: De Bruyn Frederik , De Paepe Brecht , Maertens Jo , Beauprez Joeri , De Cocker Pieter , Mincke Stein , Stevens Christian , De Mey Marjan
Published: February 2015

Glycosylation of small molecules can significantly alter their properties such as solubility, stability, and/or bioactivity, making glycosides attractive and highly demanded compounds. Consequently, many biotechnological glycosylation approaches have been developed, with enzymatic synthesis and whole‐cell biocatalysis as the most prominent techniques. However, most processes still suffer from low yields, production rates and inefficient UDP‐sugar formation. To this end, a novel metabolic engineering strategy is presented for the in vivo glucosylation of small molecules in Escherichia coli W. This strategy focuses on the introduction of an alternative sucrose metabolism using sucrose phosphorylase for the direct and efficient generation of glucose 1‐phosphate as precursor for UDP‐glucose formation and fructose, which serves as a carbon source for growth. By targeted gene deletions, a split metabolism is created whereby glucose 1‐phosphate is rerouted from the glycolysis to product formation (i.e., glucosylation). Further, the production pathway was enhanced by increasing and preserving the intracellular UDP‐glucose pool. Expression of a versatile glucosyltransferase from Vitis vinifera (VvGT2) enabled the strain to efficiently produce 14 glucose esters of various hydroxycinnamates and hydroxybenzoates with conversion yields up to 100%. To our knowledge, this fast growing (and simultaneously producing) E. coli mutant is the first versatile host described for the glucosylation of phenolic acids in a fermentative way using only sucrose as a cheap and sustainable carbon source. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2015;112: 1594–1603. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Using HeLa cell stress response to introduce first year students to the scientific method, laboratory techniques, primary literature, and scientific writing
Authors: Resendes Karen K.
Published: February 2015

Incorporating scientific literacy into inquiry driven research is one of the most effective mechanisms for developing an undergraduate student's strength in writing. Additionally, discovery‐based laboratories help develop students who approach science as critical thinkers. Thus, a three‐week laboratory module for an introductory cell and molecular biology course that couples inquiry‐based experimental design with extensive scientific writing was designed at Westminster College to expose first year students to these concepts early in their undergraduate career. In the module students used scientific literature to design and then implement an experiment on the effect of cellular stress on protein expression in HeLa cells. In parallel the students developed a research paper in the style of the undergraduate journal BIOS to report their results. HeLa cells were used to integrate the research experience with the Westminster College “Next Chapter” first year program, in which the students explored the historical relevance of HeLa cells from a sociological perspective through reading The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot. In this report I detail the design, delivery, student learning outcomes, and assessment of this module, and while this exercise was designed for an introductory course at a small primarily undergraduate institution, suggestions for modifications at larger universities or for upper division courses are included. Finally, based on student outcomes suggestions are provided for improving the module to enhance the link between teaching students skills in experimental design and execution with developing student skills in information literacy and writing. © 2015 by The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 43(2):110–120, 2015.
Electrosynthesis of Metal–Organic Frameworks: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Al‐Kutubi Hanan , Gascon Jorge , Sudhölter Ernst J. R. , Rassaei Liza
Published: February 2015

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are porous crystalline materials consisting of metal ions bound through coordination bonds to organic linkers. Much research over the last few decades have been devoted to the synthesis of these materials in view of their promising applications in, for example, catalysis, separation, gas storage, drug delivery and sensing. Among the variety of methods developed for the synthesis of MOFs are electrochemical techniques. These methods have several advantages such as mild synthesis conditions, shorter synthesis times and the possibility to control the reaction conditions directly during the synthesis process. However, the progress of electrosynthesis methods has lagged behind that of other methods such as solvothermal and microwave‐assisted synthesis. In this Review, we summarise and critically assess research on the electrosynthesis of MOFs and provide a full picture of the developments within this field. The various ways in which electrochemistry has contributed to the synthesis of MOFs are explained, their strengths and shortcomings are discussed, and an outlook for future research is provided.
Asymmetric Suzuki–Miyaura Cross‐Coupling for the Synthesis of Chiral Biaryl Compounds as Potential Monophosphine Ligands
Authors: Ma Yan‐Na , Yang Shang‐Dong
Published: February 2015

Efficient asymmetric Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reactions have been employed for the first time to synthesize chiral biaryl compounds with phosphinate groups as chiral auxiliaries. A series of functionalized chiral biaryls are thereby synthesized in excellent yields and good diastereoselectivities (up to >95:5 d.r.) and axially chiral monophosphorus ligands are obtained through further functionalizations.
Supramolecular Capsules from Bilayer Membrane Scission Driven by Corannulene
Authors: Kim Yongju , Lee Myongsoo
Published: February 2015

Self‐assembly of polyaromatic systems has proved to be a powerful technique to construct nanoscale optoelectronic materials. However, attempts to develop self‐assembled nanomaterials guided by pristine polyaromatic molecules have been limited. Here the construction of photoactive nanocapsules through the scission of an aromatic bilayer membrane driven by curved corannulene intercalation is reported. The framework of the capsule consists of the lateral array of corannulene, a buckyball fragment. The supramolecular capsules exhibit photocatalytic activity to degrade encapsulated fluorescein dye molecules under sunlight irradiation.
Inflammation‐induced activation of the indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase pathway: Relevance to cancer‐related fatigue
Authors: Kim Sangmi , Miller Brian J. , Stefanek Michael E. , Miller Andrew H.
Published: February 2015

This review examines the increasing data that implicate the indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase pathway in the etiology of cancer‐related fatigue, and it explores potential translational implications for novel treatments for cancer‐related fatigue.
Electronic Structure and Partial Charge Distribution of Doxorubicin in Different Molecular Environments
Authors: Poudel Lokendra , Wen Amy M. , French Roger H. , Parsegian V. Adrian , Podgornik Rudolf , Steinmetz Nicole F. , Ching Wai‐Yim
Published: February 2015

The electronic structure and partial charge of doxorubicin (DOX) in three different molecular environments—isolated, solvated, and intercalated in a DNA complex—are studied by first‐principles density functional methods. It is shown that the addition of solvating water molecules to DOX, together with the proximity to and interaction with DNA, has a significant impact on the electronic structure as well as on the partial charge distribution. Significant improvement in estimating the DOX–DNA interaction energy is achieved. The results are further elucidated by resolving the total density of states and surface charge density into different functional groups. It is concluded that the presence of the solvent and the details of the interaction geometry matter greatly in determining the stability of DOX complexation. Ab initio calculations on realistic models are an important step toward a more accurate description of the long‐range interactions in biomolecular systems.
Biosynthetic Studies of the Male Marking Pheromone in Bumblebees by Using Labelled Fatty Acids and Two‐Dimensional Gas Chromatography with Mass Detection
Authors: Žáček Petr , Kindl Jiří , Frišonsová Kateřina , Průchová Markéta , Votavová Alena , Hovorka Oldřich , Kovalczuk Tomáš , Valterová Irena
Published: February 2015

Two‐dimensional comprehensive gas chromatography (GC×GC) coupled with mass detection was used as a tool for biosynthetic studies of bumblebee pheromones. Prior to biosynthetic experiments, the chromatographic behaviour of isotopically modified esters in the GC×GC system as well as their behaviour in mass detection was studied. The male marking pheromones of Bombus lucorum, Bombus lapidarius and Bombus terrestris were investigated. Main pheromonal components are ethyl tetradec‐9‐enoate (53 %) and ethyl dodecanoate (6 %) in B. lucorum, hexadec‐9‐en‐1‐ol (52 %) and hexadecan‐1‐ol (31 %) in B. lapidarius, and 2,3‐dihydrofarnesol (58 %) and ethyl dodecanoate (15 %) in B. terrestris. The research strategy was based on 1) in vivo incubation of isotopically (2H, 13C) modified fatty acids (FAs) and analysis of their metabolites and 2) feeding experiments with 2H‐ and 13C‐labelled FAs mixed with food. It was observed that labelled FAs were modified into the most abundant aliphatic compounds present in labial gland secretions. In feeding experiments, the labelled FAs were transformed into pheromone components. Transport of the FA precursors from the fat body through haemolymph was confirmed. The results show that FAs, stored in the form of triacylglycerols in the fat body, are likely to participate in the biosynthesis of some aliphatic pheromone components.
Click Reaction as a Tool to Combine Pharmacophores: The Case of Vismodegib
Authors: Christodoulou Michael S. , Mori Mattia , Pantano Rebecca , Alfonsi Romina , Infante Paola , Botta Maurizio , Damia Giovanna , Ricci Francesca , Sotiropoulou Panagiota A. , Liekens Sandra , Botta Bruno , Passarella Daniele
Published: February 2015

The design and the preparation of a small library of 1,4‐diphenyl‐1,2,3‐triazole derivatives is reported, with the aim to obtain a new class of Hedgehog pathway inhibitors. The smoothened protein is part of the hedgehog signaling pathway that is inhibited by the lead compound Vismodegib. Based on molecular modeling simulations, seven triazole derivatives of Vismodegib are synthesized and their biological effect on different endothelial, cancer, and cancer stem cell lines is reported.
Ultrathin Surface Chemistry to Delay Anion Fouling
Authors: Machado Ruben , Blaszykowski Christophe , Sheikh Sonia , Suganuma Yoshinori , Thompson Michael
Published: February 2015

The unwanted fouling of surfaces by ionic adsorption has received little research attention. In this context, ultrathin organic adlayer surface chemistry—featuring monoethylene glycol based molecular residues—is described that is capable of noticeably decreasing the rate of anion depletion from solution. The strategy is exemplified with glass as the substrate material and fluoride as the anion foulant.
Comparative cost‐effectiveness of fine needle aspiration biopsy versus image‐guided biopsy, and open surgical biopsy in the evaluation of breast cancer in the era of affordable care act: A changing landscape
Authors: Masood Shahla , Rosa Marilin , Kraemer Dale F. , Smotherman Carmen , Mohammadi Amir
Published: February 2015

Background

Proven as a time challenged and cost‐effective sampling procedure, the use of FNAB has still remained controversial among the scientific community. Currently, other minimally invasive sampling procedures such as ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration biopsy (US‐FNAB) and image guided core needle biopsy (IG‐CNB) have become the preferred sampling procedures for evaluation of breast lesions. However, changes in the medical economy and the current growing emphasis on cost containment in the era of the Affordable Care Act make it necessary to stimulate a renewed interest in the use of FNAB as the initial diagnostic sampling procedure. This study was designed to define the changing trend in the practice of tissue sampling during the last several years, and to assess the comparative effectiveness and appropriateness of the procedure of choice for breast cancer diagnosis.

Methods

After Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval, the computer database of the Pathology Department, University of Florida, College of Medicine‐Jacksonville at UF Health was retrospectively searched to identify all breast biopsy pathology reports issued during the period of January 2004 to December 2011. The inclusion criteria were all women that underwent any of the following biopsy types: FNAB, US‐FNAB, IG‐CNB, and surgical biopsy (SB).

Diagnostic procedures were identified using current procedural terminology (CPT) codes recorded on claims from the UF Health Jacksonville patient accounting application files. The data obtained was used to determine which technique has the best cost‐effectiveness in the diagnosis of breast cancer. The outcome variable for this project was a positive breast cancer diagnosis resulting from these methodologies. The predictor variable was the biopsy type used for sampling. The rate of cancer detection for each procedure was also determined.

Results

Among the four groups of procedures compared, the lower cost was attributed to FNAB, followed by US‐FNAB, and SB. IG‐CNB was the most costly procedure, even more expensive than SB. The more costs associated with IG‐CNB compared to SB is related to the expense involved in the use of localizing devices and also attempts to sample a lesion more than once. More importantly, cancer yield by FNAB was the highest among all the procedures under study.

Conclusion

This study confirms the comparative effectiveness of FNAB in the evaluation of patients with breast cancer and justifies serious endorsement of this procedure as the initial diagnostic sampling modality for its unique potential in rapid reporting and cost‐saving. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2015;43:605–612. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Preparation of Pyranose‐Based Thioimidate N‐Oxides (TINOs)
Authors: Marquès Stéphanie , Schuler Marie , Tatibouët Arnaud
Published: February 2015

The synthesis of new pyranose‐based thioimidate N‐oxides (TINOs) is reported. Original strategies were developed, by taking advantage of the nucleophilic capability of the thiohydroximate function, anchored on a carbohydrate backbone. The key cyclisation step was achieved either through a Mitsunobu‐type reaction or through desilylative cyclisation. These studies enable access to a unique family of polyhydroxypiperidine thioimidate N‐oxides both from aldopentoses (D‐xylose and D‐arabinose) and from aldohexoses (D‐glucose, D‐mannose), thus extending the previously relatively limited class of cyclic six‐membered nitrone analogues. Typical examples of TINOs were prepared with good yields in six to ten steps in both D‐ and L‐series. These compounds should be highly valuable synthetic intermediates in the preparation of various complex iminosugars, or azasugars, as potential modulators of carbohydrate‐processing enzymes.
When and why is helping others good for well‐being? The role of belief in reciprocity and conformity to society's expectations
Authors: Oarga Cristina , Stavrova Olga , Fetchenhauer Detlef
Published: February 2015

This research investigates the relation between informal help and subjective well‐being and its underlying mechanisms using a cross‐national perspective. We focus on two potential mechanisms derived from the self‐determination theory and conformity to the social norms literature. From the standpoint of self‐determination theory, helping others is good for well‐being if it is intrinsically motivated, rather than driven by the expectation of reciprocity. On the other hand, from the perspective of the conformity literature, helping others is associated with a higher well‐being when it is linked to the benefits of social conformity, such as social approval. We tested these hypotheses using the data from a total of 23 countries. The results provided support for both mechanisms. First, we found that the lower individuals' beliefs in reciprocity are, the stronger is the positive effect of self‐reported helping behavior on their well‐being. Second, helping behavior was more strongly related to life satisfaction in countries where providing help represents a strong social norm (measured with two different cultural indicators). We conclude that both individual‐ and culture‐level mechanisms account for the relation between prosocial behavior and well‐being. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.