bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functionalization of chitosan via single electron transfer living radical polymerization in an ionic liquid and its antimicrobial activity
Authors: Lin Chunxiang , Liu Danhui , Luo Wei , Liu Yifan , Zhu Moshuqi , Li Xiaojuan , Liu Minghua
Published: August 2015

In this work, single electron transfer living radical polymerization (SET‐LRP) was used to functionalize chitosan in a well‐controlled manner. The chitosan‐based macroinitiator was first synthesized and then initiated the SET‐LRP of methacryloyloxyethyl trimethylammonium chloride (DMC) in ionic liquid system, using Cu0/N,N,N′,N′,N′′‐pentamethyldiethylenetriamine as a catalyst. The grafting of PDMC brushes on chitosan was confirmed and analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance. Transmission electron microscopy reveals that the chitosan copolymer showed self‐assembled behavior in acetone. Surface properties of the copolymer have been investigated by environment scanning electron microscopy analysis. The linear relationship between the ln([M]0/[M]t) and time, the linear increase of number‐average molecular mass with conversion as well as the low polydispersity index of the polymer confirmed the “living/controlled” features of the polymerization of DMC through SET‐LRP. Finally, the chitosan copolymer demonstrates its potential antibacterial application, showing excellent inhibitive capability against Escherichia coli. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42754.
Reliable survival analysis based on the Dirichlet process
Authors: Mangili Francesca , Benavoli Alessio , de Campos Cassio P. , Zaffalon Marco
Published: August 2015

We present a robust Dirichlet process for estimating survival functions from samples with right‐censored data. It adopts a prior near‐ignorance approach to avoid almost any assumption about the distribution of the population lifetimes, as well as the need of eliciting an infinite dimensional parameter (in case of lack of prior information), as it happens with the usual Dirichlet process prior. We show how such model can be used to derive robust inferences from right‐censored lifetime data. Robustness is due to the identification of the decisions that are prior‐dependent, and can be interpreted as an analysis of sensitivity with respect to the hypothetical inclusion of fictitious new samples in the data. In particular, we derive a nonparametric estimator of the survival probability and a hypothesis test about the probability that the lifetime of an individual from one population is shorter than the lifetime of an individual from another. We evaluate these ideas on simulated data and on the Australian AIDS survival dataset. The methods are publicly available through an easy‐to‐useR package.
On the effect of hydrostatic pressure on the conformational stability of globular proteins
Authors: Graziano Giuseppe
Published: August 2015

The model developed for cold denaturation (Graziano, PCCP 2010, 12, 14245‐14252) is extended to rationalize the dependence of protein conformational stability upon hydrostatic pressure, at room temperature. A pressure− volume work is associated with the process of cavity creation for the need to enlarge the liquid volume against hydrostatic pressure. This contribution destabilizes the native state that has a molecular volume slightly larger than the denatured state due to voids existing in the protein core. Therefore, there is a hydrostatic pressure value at which the pressure−volume contribution plus the conformational entropy loss of the polypeptide chain are able to overwhelm the stabilizing gain in translational entropy of water molecules, due to the decrease in water accessible surface area upon folding, causing denaturation. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 103: 711–718, 2015.
Utilization of catheter‐directed thrombolysis in pulmonary embolism and outcome difference between systemic thrombolysis and catheter‐directed thrombolysis
Authors: Patel Nish , Patel Nileshkumar J. , Agnihotri Kanishk , Panaich Sidakpal S. , Thakkar Badal , Patel Achint , Savani Chirag , Patel Nilay , Arora Shilpkumar , Deshmukh Abhishek , Bhatt Parth , Alfonso Carlos , Cohen Mauricio , Tafur Alfonso , Elder Mahir , Mohamed Tamam , Attaran Ramak , Schreiber Theodore , Grines Cindy , Badheka Apurva O.
Published: August 2015

Objective

The aim of the study was to assess the utilization of catheter‐directed thrombolysis (CDT) and its comparative effectiveness against systemic thrombolysis in acute pulmonary embolism (PE).

Background

Contemporary real world data regarding utilization and outcomes comparing systemic thrombolysis with CDT for PE is sparse.

Methods

We queried the Nationwide Inpatient Sample from 2010 to 2012 using the ICD‐9‐CM diagnosis code 415.11, 415.13, and 415.19 for acute PE. We used propensity score analysis to compare outcomes between systemic thrombolysis and CDT. Primary outcome was in‐hospital mortality. Secondary outcome was combined in‐hospital mortality and intracranial hemorrhage (ICH).

Results

Out of 110,731 patients hospitalized with PE, we identified 1,521 patients treated with thrombolysis, of which 1,169 patients received systemic thrombolysis and 352 patients received CDT. After propensity‐matched comparison, primary and secondary outcomes were significantly lower in the CDT group compared to systemic thrombolysis (21.81% vs. 13.36%, OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.36–0.85, P value = 0.007) and (22.89% vs. 13.36%, OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.34–0.80, P value = 0.003), respectively. The median length of stay [7 days, interquartile range (IQR) (5–9 days) vs. 7 days, IQR (5–10 days), P = 0.17] was not significant between the two groups. The CDT group had higher cost of hospitalization [$17,218, IQR ($12,272–$23,906) vs. $23,799, IQR ($17,892–$35,338), P < 0.001]. Multivariate analysis identified increasing age, saddle PE, cardiopulmonary arrest, and Medicaid insurance as independent predictors of in‐hospital mortality.

Conclusions

CDT was associated with lower in‐hospital mortality and combined in‐hospital mortality and ICH. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Anticoagulant therapy with rivaroxaban in a young patient with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria
Authors: Dragoni Francesco , Chiarotti Flavia , Lombardi Laura , Iori Anna Paola , Cafolla Arturo
Published: August 2015

Key Clinical Message

The new direct oral anticoagulants such us rivaroxaban, could play an important role in the anticoagulant treatment of patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria where anticoagulant treatment is complex to run, since they have shown a reduction in serious bleeding complications compared to antithrombotic therapy with classical vitamin k antagonist.
A novel CYP17A1 deletion causes a functional knockout of the steroid enzyme 17‐hydroxylase and 17,20‐lyase in a Turkish family and illustrates the precise role of the CYP17A1 gene
Authors: Camats Núria , Üstyol Ala , Atabek Mehmet Emre , Dick Bernhard , Flück Christa E.
Published: August 2015

Key Clinical Message

A novel homozygous long‐range deletion of the CYP17A1 gene abolished protein expression and caused the severest form of 17‐hydroxylase deficiency in one kindred of a Turkish family. The affected subjects presented with 46,XY sex reversal and 46,XX lack of pubertal development as well as severe hypertension.
Fulminant isolated adenovirus hepatitis 5 months after haplo‐identical HSCT for AML
Authors: Detrait Marie , De Prophetis Stephanie , Delville Jean‐Pierre , Komuta Mina
Published: August 2015

Key Clinical Message

The principal limitation of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation except relapse remains the transplant‐related mortality (TRM). In addition to graft‐versus‐host disease (GvHD), infections contribute to TRM in many patients. We describe herein a case of an adult patient presenting 5 months after haplo‐identical transplantation an isolated fulminant hepatitis due to adenovirus.
Fahr's disease: a rare neurological presentation in a tropical setting
Authors: Otu Akaninyene Asuquo , Anikwe Jude Chinedu , Cocker Derek
Published: August 2015

Key Clinical Message

While rare, Fahr's disease should be considered as a differential diagnosis for seizures, movement disorders, or cognitive impairment in tropical settings. Classically, bilateral calcification of the basal ganglia is seen on CT. Endemic infections, metabolic, and toxic causes should be excluded. Treatment using Levodopa is often beneficial.
A Composite of Complex and Chemical Hydrides Yields the First Al‐Based Amidoborane with Improved Hydrogen Storage Properties
Authors: Dovgaliuk Iurii , Jepsen Lars H. , Safin Damir A. , Łodziana Zbigniew , Dyadkin Vadim , Jensen Torben R. , Devillers Michel , Filinchuk Yaroslav
Published: August 2015

The first Al‐based amidoborane Na[Al(NH2BH3)4] was obtained through a mechanochemical treatment of the NaAlH4–4 AB (AB=NH3BH3) composite releasing 4.5 wt % of pure hydrogen. The same amidoborane was also produced upon heating the composite at 70 °C. The crystal structure of Na[Al(NH2BH3)4], elucidated from synchrotron X‐ray powder diffraction and confirmed by DFT calculations, contains the previously unknown tetrahedral ion [Al(NH2BH3)4]−, with every NH2BH3− ligand coordinated to aluminum through nitrogen atoms. Combination of complex and chemical hydrides in the same compound was possible due to both the lower stability of the AlH bonds compared to the BH ones in borohydride, and due to the strong Lewis acidity of Al3+. According to the thermogravimetric analysis–differential scanning calorimetry–mass spectrometry (TGA–DSC–MS) studies, Na[Al(NH2BH3)4] releases in two steps 9 wt % of pure hydrogen. As a result of this decomposition, which was also supported by volumetric studies, the formation of NaBH4 and amorphous product(s) of the surmised composition AlN4B3H(0–3.6) were observed. Furthermore, volumetric experiments have also shown that the final residue can reversibly absorb about 27 % of the released hydrogen at 250 °C and p(H2)=150 bar. Hydrogen re‐absorption does not regenerate neither Na[Al(NH2BH3)4] nor starting materials, NaAlH4 and AB, but rather occurs within amorphous product(s). Detailed studies of the latter one(s) can open an avenue for a new family of reversible hydrogen storage materials. Finally, the NaAlH4–4 AB composite might become a starting point towards a new series of aluminum‐based tetraamidoboranes with improved hydrogen storage properties such as hydrogen storage density, hydrogen purity, and reversibility.
Synthesis of Ordered Mesoporous Carbon Materials by Dry Etching
Authors: Nickel Winfried , Oschatz Martin , Rico‐Francés Soledad , Klosz Stefan , Biemelt Tim , Mondin Giovanni , Eychmüller Alexander , Silvestre‐Albero Joaquín , Kaskel Stefan
Published: August 2015

A novel synthesis method for ordered mesoporous carbons is presented. The inverse replication of a silica template was achieved using the carbonization of sucrose within mesoporous KIT‐6. Instead of liquid acid etching, as in classical nanocasting, a novel dry chlorine etching procedure for template removal is presented for the first time. The resultant ordered mesostructured carbon material outperforms carbons obtained by conventional hard templating with respect to high specific micro‐ and mesopore volumes (0.6 and 1.6 cm3 g−1, respectively), due to the presence of a hierarchical pore system. A high specific surface area of 1671 m2 g−1 was achieved, rendering this synthesis route a highly convenient method to produce ordered mesoporous carbons.
A Practical and General Base‐Catalyzed Carbonylation of Amines for the Synthesis of N‐Formamides
Authors: Li Wanfang , Wu Xiao‐Feng
Published: August 2015

A highly practical and general base‐catalyzed carbonylation of amines to the corresponding N‐formamides has been realized. Cheap inorganic bases, including Group IA and IIA metal hydroxides, alkoxides, carbonates, and phosphates, were effective catalysts for the transformation. In the presence of 10–40 mol % of KOH or K2CO3, various amines were converted into the corresponding N‐formamides in good‐to‐excellent yields using CO as the formylation reagents.
Hürden bei der Destillation in modularen Chemiefabriken
Authors: Dercks Benedikt , Grünewald Marcus
Published: August 2015

Modulare Chemiefabriken, wie sie derzeit in Forschung und Industrie diskutiert werden, stellen besondere Anforderungen an die eingesetzten thermischen Trennapparate. Der Artikel beschreibt diese Anforderungen und stellt eine geeignet erscheinende, mikrostrukturierte Apparateklasse vor. Die Entwicklung dieser Apparate begann für die Absorption und wurde anschließend auf die Destillation ausgeweitet. Mithilfe eines mathematischen Modells des Apparates werden die zu überwindenden Hürden beim Einsatz dieser Apparate, die sich aus dem Temperaturprofil ergeben, gezeigt und erste technische Lösungen diskutiert.
Objectively measured physical activity and sedentary behavior and quality of life indicators in survivors of breast cancer
Authors: Phillips Siobhan M. , Awick Elizabeth A. , Conroy David E. , Pellegrini Christine A. , Mailey Emily L. , McAuley Edward
Published: August 2015

BACKGROUND

The primary purpose of the current study was to determine prospective associations of accelerometer‐assessed physical activity intensity and sedentary time with health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) indicators among survivors of breast cancer.

METHODS

A total of 358 survivors of breast cancer wore an accelerometer for 7 days at baseline to assess different activity intensities (light, lifestyle, and moderate to vigorous) and sedentary behavior. Six months later, survivors completed online questionnaires that assessed HRQOL indicators (disease‐specific HRQOL, fatigue, depression, and anxiety) and relevant covariates. Relationships between activity and sedentary behavior quartiles and HRQOL indicator scores were examined using generalized liner models with Bonferroni multiple comparison adjustment.

RESULTS

After adjustment for covariates and sedentary time, each increasing lifestyle activity quartile was associated with reduced fatigue duration (P for trend, .03). Each increasing baseline moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (MVPA) quartile was found to be significantly associated with higher Physical Well‐Being, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy‐Breast (FACT‐B) total, and trial outcome index scores; fewer breast cancer‐specific concerns; and lower fatigue interference, and these differences were statistically and clinically significant between survivors in quartile 1 and quartile 4. After controlling for covariates and MVPA, relationships between sedentary time and HRQOL were mostly null with the exception of lower fatigue duration.

CONCLUSIONS

Objectively measured MVPA was found to be positively associated with many HRQOL indicators. Lifestyle activity was found to be only inversely associated with fatigue duration whereas sedentary time was found to be positively associated with fatigue duration. Future research is warranted to explore these relationships further. Cancer 2015;121:4044–4052. © 2015 American Cancer Society.
Revisiting determinants of prognosis in cutaneous melanoma
Authors: Weiss Sarah A. , Hanniford Douglas , Hernando Eva , Osman Iman
Published: August 2015

The American Joint Committee on Cancer staging system for cutaneous melanoma is based on primary tumor thickness and the presence of ulceration, mitoses, lymph node spread, and distant metastases as determinants of prognosis. Although this cutaneous melanoma staging system has evolved over time to more accurately reflect patient prognosis, improvements are still needed, because current understanding of the particular factors (genetic mutation, expression alteration, host response, etc) that are critical for predicting patient outcomes is incomplete. Given the clinical and biologic heterogeneity of primary melanomas, new prognostic tools are needed to more precisely identify patients who are most likely to develop advanced disease. Such tools would affect clinical surveillance strategies and aid in patient selection for adjuvant therapy. The authors reviewed the literature on prognostic molecular and immunologic markers in primary cutaneous melanoma, their associations with clinicopathologic and survival outcomes, and their potential for incorporation into current staging models. Overall, the studies considered in this review did not define prognostic markers that could be readily incorporated into the current staging system. Therefore, efforts should be continued in these and other directions to maximize the likelihood of identifying clinically useful prognostic biomarkers for cutaneous melanoma. Cancer 2015;121:4108–4123. © 2015 American Cancer Society.
Self‐Heating Approach to the Fast Production of Uniform Metal Nanostructures
Authors: Yin Xi , Wu Jianbo , Li Panpan , Shi Miao , Yang Hong
Published: August 2015

Heat released from the exothermic reaction between amine (R‐NH2) and carboxylic acid (R′‐COOH) was systematically utilized to prepare noble metal nanocrystals (NCs) of various shapes in the presence of carbon monoxide (CO). The heating profile of the solution mixtures was controllable by adjusting both the type and ratio of these two kinds of molecules. A maximum heating rate of 20 °C s−1 was achieved. Uniform gold nanowires and nanoparticles were produced by tuning the molar ratio between carboxylic acid and oleylamine (OAm). In addition, concave tetrahedral palladium nanocrystals were also produced. This self‐heating method is highly versatile for making a variety of metal nanostructures. It represents a new, potentially scalable and extremely fast production route of metal nanostructures. This novel production route arises from the unique manner in which homogeneous heat releases from ligand‐based chemical reactions.
Macroecology of North American suckers (Catostomidae): tests of Bergmann's and Rapoport's rules
Authors: Jacquemin Stephen J. , Doll Jason C.
Published: August 2015

Discerning spatial macroecological patterns in freshwater fishes has broad implications for community assembly, ecosystem dynamics, management, and conservation. This study explores the potential interspecific covariation of geographic range (Rapoport's rule) and body size (Bergmann's rule) with latitude in North American sucker fishes (Cypriniformes: Catostomidae). While numerous tests of Rapoport's and Bergmann's rules are documented in the literature, comparatively few of these studies have specifically tested for these patterns, and none have incorporated information reflecting shared ancestry into analyses of North American freshwater fish through a hierarchical model. This study utilized a hierarchical modeling approach with Bayesian inference to evaluate the role that evolution has played in shaping these distributional corollaries. Rapoport's rule was supported at the tribe level but not across family and subfamily groupings. Particularly within the Catostominae subfamily, two tribes reflected strong support for Rapoport's rule while two suggested a pattern was present. Conversely, Bergmann's rule was not supported in Catostomidae. This study provides additional information regarding the pervasiveness of these “rules” by expanding inferences in freshwater fishes and specifically addressing the potential for these macroecological patterns to play a role in the distribution of the understudied group Catostomidae.
SLy1 regulates T‐cell proliferation during Listeria monocytogenes infection in a Foxo1‐dependent manner
Authors: Schäll Daniel , Schmitt Fee , Reis Bernhard , Brandt Simone , Beer‐Hammer Sandra
Published: August 2015

Infection of mice with Listeria monocytogenes results in a strong T‐cell response that is critical for an efficient defense. Here, we demonstrate that the adapter protein SLy1 (SH3‐domain protein expressed in Lymphocytes 1) is essential for the generation of a fully functional T‐cell response. The lack of SLy1 leads to reduced survival rates of infected mice. The increased susceptibility of SLy1 knock‐out (KO) mice was caused by reduced proliferation of differentiated T cells. Ex vivo analyses of isolated SLy1 KO T cells displayed a dysregulation of Forkhead box protein O1 shuttling after TCR signaling, which resulted in an increased expression of cell cycle inhibiting genes, and therefore, reduced expansion of the T‐cell population. Forkhead box protein O1 shuttles to the cytoplasm after phosphorylation in a protein complex including 14‐3‐3 proteins. Interestingly, we observed a similar regulation for the adapter protein SLy1, where TCR stimulation results in SLy1 phosphorylation and SLy1 export to the cytoplasm. Moreover, immunoprecipitation analyses revealed a binding of SLy1 to 14‐3‐3 proteins. Altogether, this study describes SLy1 as an immunoregulatory protein, which is involved in the generation of adaptive immune responses during L. monocytogenes infection, and provides a model of how SLy1 regulates T‐cell proliferation.
Controlling the Microstructure of Isotactic Polypropene by C2‐Symmetric Zirconocene Polymerization Catalysts: Influence of Alkyl Substituents on Regio‐ and Stereocontrol
Authors: Kuklin Mikhail S. , Virkkunen Ville , Castro Pascal M. , Resconi Luigi , Linnolahti Mikko
Published: August 2015

A combined computational and experimental study was carried out to evaluate control of the microstructure of isotactic polypropene by C2‐symmetric zirconocenes with rac‐SiMe2[Ind]2‐based ligands. Building on the highly regio‐ and stereospecific catalyst combining 2‐Me and 4‐Ph substituents, we made further modifications to the ligand framework by systematic addition of alkyl substituents. Propene insertion barriers are given for a total of 24 catalysts. Calculations and experiments show that the series of catalysts produce highly stereoregular isotactic polypropene. Regiocontrol can be markedly improved by addition of 3‐Me substituents or by replacing 2‐Me with bulkier 2‐alkyl substituents on the indenyl ligand, but the former is accompanied by loss of stereocontrol and the latter by significantly increased overall barriers for propene insertion. The combination of methyl substituents and tBu groups on the 4‐Ph ligand substituents is shown to provide improved regiocontrol without sacrificing high stereocontrol.
Toward the Synthesis of Tetrazino‐­tetrazine 1,3,6,8‐Tetraoxide (TTTO): An Approach to Non‐annulated 1,2,3,4‐Tetrazine 1,3‐Dioxides
Authors: Klenov Michael S. , Anikin Oleg V. , Churakov Aleksandr M. , Strelenko Yurii A. , Fedyanin Ivan V. , Ananyev Ivan V. , Tartakovsky Vladimir A.
Published: August 2015

A novel approach for the synthesis of 6‐(tert‐butyl‐NNO‐azoxy)‐5‐methylthio‐1,2,3,4‐tetrazine 1,3‐dioxide (1) was developed. This compound is likely to be a precursor of tetrazino‐tetrazine 1,3,6,8‐tetraoxide. The synthetic strategy consists of four steps: a synthesis of bis(tert‐butyl‐NNO‐azoxy)methane, coupling of the latter with dimethyl nitrodithioimidocarbonate to give N‐nitroimine 3, O‐alkylation of the latter to O‐alkylated nitroenamine and its reaction with BF3·Et2O to afford tetrazine 1,3‐dioxide 1. An X‐ray diffraction study of 1 was accomplished.
Modular Synthesis of Biaryl‐Substituted Phosphine Ligands: Application in Microwave‐Assisted Palladium‐Catalyzed C–N Cross‐Coupling Reactions
Authors: Singh Chandani , Rathod Jayant , Jha Vishwajeet , Panossian Armen , Kumar Pradeep , Leroux Frédéric R.
Published: August 2015

Biaryl‐substituted monophosphine‐based ligands have been synthesized by transition‐metal‐free “ARYNE” cross‐coupling reaction of aryllithiums with 1,2‐dibromobenzene and subsequent regioselective functionalization through bromine–lithium interconversion. These ligands were employed in palladium‐catalyzed C–N bond‐forming reactions. The reaction was found to be general with wide substrate applicability. A wide variety of both primary and secondary amines were successfully coupled with an array of differently substituted halobenzenes under microwave irradiation to give the expected products in good to excellent yields. A number of biaryl‐substituted phosphine ligands screened for the coupling reaction showed that steric bulk and the electronic properties of substituents on phosphorus play a crucial role in governing the catalytic activity of C–N cross‐coupling reactions.
Regioselective Oxidative C–H Phosphonation of Imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines and Related Heteroarenes Mediated by Manganese(III) Acetate
Authors: Yadav Mahipal , Dara Saidulu , Saikam Varma , Kumar Mukesh , Aithagani Sravan Kumar , Paul Satya , Vishwakarma Ram A. , Singh Parvinder Pal
Published: August 2015

Herein, we report a MnIII‐mediated regioselective method for the direct C–H phosphonation of imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines by using dialkyl phosphites. 3‐Phosphonated imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines are synthesized in good to excellent yields under the optimized reaction conditions. The present method is also applicable to the functionalization of related heteroarenes, and unlike previously reported methods, the present strategy works well with (NH)‐heteroarenes.
Discursive constructions of otherness in populist radical right political blogs
Authors: Sakki Inari , Pettersson Katarina
Published: August 2015

This article provides a comparative study of the discursive construction and use of Otherness among anti‐immigration populist radical right politicians in Sweden and Finland. Based on rhetorical and critical discursive psychology, our analyses of discourse within nine political blogs identified three distinct representations of Otherness. These representations of a deviant group of people, of a threatening ideology and of inner enemies are highly familiar from previous research on radical right discourse. However, what seems to characterize populist radical right discourse in the Nordic context is the strong reliance on the rhetorical juxtaposition between the welfare system and immigration. Our study furthermore highlights how populist radical right politicians exploit the digital discursive tools provided by political blogging. These tools, first, create a sense of connectedness and mutual understanding between blogger and reader and, second, allow the blogger to convey messages that are hostile towards immigrants and ethnic minorities without expressing an explicit personal opinion. In combination, the features provided by political blogging and the discursive and rhetorical strategies that deny racism make discourse within a populist radical right political blog especially powerful and convincing. We conclude that research must be sensitive to this ‘digital discourse’, as it reaches a public far beyond the sphere of a political blog through its potential to spread and influence mainstream media.
Forecasting with Bayesian Vector Autoregressions Estimated Using Professional Forecasts
Authors: Frey Christoph , Mokinski Frieder
Published: August 2015

We propose a Bayesian shrinkage approach for vector autoregressions (VARs) that uses short‐term survey forecasts as an additional source of information about model parameters. In particular, we augment the vector of dependent variables by their survey nowcasts, and claim that each variable modelled in the VAR and its nowcast are likely to depend in a similar way on the lagged dependent variables. In an application to macroeconomic data, we find that the forecasts obtained from a VAR fitted by our new shrinkage approach typically yield smaller mean squared forecast errors than the forecasts obtained from a range of benchmark methods. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Severe intravenous immunoglobulin‐induced hemolysis with pigment nephropathy managed with red cell exchange
Authors: Lasica Masa , Zantomio Daniela
Published: August 2015

We report on the use of red cell exchange in a case of severe intravenous immune globulin induced hemolysis and pigment nephropathy. Renal impairment and hemoglobinuria were not ameliorated by supportive measures including hydration. Partial red cell exchange with group O blood reduced hemoglobinuria and appeared to stabilize renal function. This is the first report on the use of red cell exchange in this clinical setting. J. Clin. Apheresis 31:464–466, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Molecular characterization of adenoviruses among finnish military conscripts
Authors: Mölsä Markos , Hemmilä Heidi , Rönkkö Esa , Virkki Maria , Nikkari Simo , Ziegler Thedi
Published: August 2015

Although adenoviruses were identified as important respiratory pathogens many years ago, little information is available concerning the prevalence of different adenovirus serotypes, which are circulating and causing epidemics in Finnish military training centers. Over a period of five years from 2008 to 2012, 3577 respiratory specimens were collected from military conscripts presenting with symptoms compatible with acute respiratory tract infection. Upon initial testing for certain respiratory viruses by real‐time PCR, 837 of these specimens were identified as adenovirus‐positive. For 672 of these specimens, the serotype of the adenovirus responsible was successfully determined by DNA sequencing. Serotypes 1, 2, 3, and 4 were detected in 1, 3, 181, and 487 samples, respectively. Adenovirus epidemics were observed during each year of this study. Based on these findings, adenovirus vaccination should be considered for military conscripts in the Finnish Defence Forces. J. Med. Virol. 88:571–577, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Variable breeding dates among populations of white‐tailed deer in the southern United States: The legacy of restocking?
Authors: Sumners Jason A. , Demarais Stephen , Deyoung Randy W. , Honeycutt Rodney L. , Rooney Alejandro P. , Gonzales Robert A. , Gee Kenneth L.
Published: August 2015

Reproduction is timed so that parturition coincides with optimal conditions for offspring survival, with strong fitness implications in northern regions. However, in the southern United States the breeding season of white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) is relatively heterogeneous over short distances. To test the hypothesis that genetic differences account for heterogeneity in breeding dates, we compared the degree of mitochondrial (mtDNA) and microsatellite DNA differentiation among 6 pairs of adjacent populations with breeding dates differing by an average of 35 days (DBD group) and 4 pairs of populations displaying similar breeding dates (SBD group) differing by no more than 2 days. Average mtDNA differentiation between pairs in the DBD group (FST = 0.408, SD = 0.190) was larger (P = 0.03) than for the SBD group (FST = 0.140, SD = 0.092). The average differentiation at biparentally inherited microsatellite loci within the SBD group (FST = 0.028, SD = 0.021) did not differ from that observed for the DBD group (FST = 0.047, SD = 0.024; P = 0.200). The similarity at biparentally inherited loci suggests that there are no cryptic barriers and populations are connected by male dispersal. The greater differences in mtDNA lineages between geographically proximate populations in the DBD group imply a maternal genetic effect on the timing of breeding, likely maintained by female philopatry. We hypothesize that this difference is a genetic legacy of restocking efforts and the recovery of remnant localized populations. Translocation efforts require careful consideration of differences between source and recipient populations. Breeding dates that differ among some proximate southern deer populations may be a fixed trait that must be considered when establishing management objectives and harvest criteria. © 2015 The Wildlife Society.
The effectiveness of different neuroprotective agents in facial nerve injury: An experimental study
Authors: Tanyeri Gokce , Celik Onur , Erbas Oytun , Oltulu Fatih , Yilmaz Dilsiz Ozlem
Published: August 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

To examine and compare the neuroprotective effects of dexamethasone, oxytocin, and resveratrol administration on regeneration after facial nerve crush injury in a rat model.

Study Design

Prospective, randomized, controlled animal study.

Methods

A crush‐type facial nerve injury was performed on the right side of all rats (injury group [IG]), whereas there was no injury on the left side (sham group [SG]). These main groups were divided into five subgroups: 1) no medicine (control); 2) physiological serum; 3) dexamethasone; 4) oxytocin; and 5) resveratrol (Res) administered (intraperitoneal injection) for 28 days. Functional recovery was evaluated by daily eye‐blink reflex and facial electromyography. Nerve–muscle degeneration and regeneration, apoptosis, and intercellular connections were evaluated in histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations.

Results

Recovery time of the postinjury eye‐blink reflex demonstrated faster recovery in IG + Res when compared with the other subgroups. In peak‐to‐peak amplitude values, a significant increase was observed in the dexamethasone (P = 0.007) and oxytocin subgroups (P = 0.004) and was even more apparent in the resveratrol subgroup (P < 0.001). Nerve regeneration is apparent in the resveratrol subgroup. Apoptotic changes were evaluated immunohistochemically with TUNEL and Caspase 3 and 6 antibodies staining. Caspase 3 and 6 immunoexpressions of resveratrol and oxytocin subgroups were moderate when compared with dexamethasone subgroup. Except for the resveratrol subgroup, which had an increase in expression, the majority of subgroups were similar to SG in terms of intercellular connections (Connexin 32 and 43).

Conclusion

Resveratrol leads to the best outcome after facial nerve crush injury in rats when compared with dexamethasone and oxytocin, even though these agents demonstrate a significant improvement in facial nerve regeneration.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 125:E356–E364, 2015
Proliferative laryngitis with airway obstruction in an adult: Consider herpes
Authors: Valenzuela Carla V. , Newbill Colin P. , Johnston Christine , Meyer Tanya K.
Published: August 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

Few cases of herpes simplex virus (HSV) affecting the larynx have been reported in the literature. Although HSV laryngitis appears to present with nonspecific symptoms, this is a potentially serious condition that can rapidly progress to unnecessary morbidity and mortality if not identified and treated accordingly. We report a case of HSV laryngitis in an individual with well controlled human immunodeficiency virus infection and perform a comprehensive literature review of HSV laryngitis in adults. From this case report and review of the literature, we advocate early diagnostic biopsy of unusual or poorly responsive laryngeal lesions for pathology, culture, and virology studies. Laryngoscope, 126:945–948, 2016
Therapeutic advances in restless legs syndrome (RLS)
Authors: Högl Birgit , Comella Cynthia
Published: August 2015

Levodopa and dopamine agonists have been the main treatment for restless legs syndrome during the past decades. Although their efficacy has been well documented over the short term, long‐term dopaminergic treatment is often complicated by augmentation, loss of efficacy, and other side effects. Recent large randomized controlled trials provide new evidence for the efficacy of high‐potency opioids and α2δ ligands, and several post hoc analyses, meta‐analyses, algorithms, and guidelines have been published, often with a specific focus, for example, on augmentation, or on management of restless legs syndrome during pregnancy. Several new contributions to understanding the pathophysiology of restless legs syndrome have been published, but at this time, whether they will have an impact on treatment possibilities in the future cannot be estimated. © 2015 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Nemaline body myopathy caused by a novel mutation in troponin T1 (TNNT1)
Authors: Abdulhaq Ulla Najwa , Daana Mohannad , Dor Talia , Fellig Yakov , Eylon Sharon , Schuelke Markus , Shaag Avraham , Elpeleg Orly , Edvardson Simon
Published: August 2015

Introduction: Nemaline myopathy is a rare disorder characterized by skeletal muscle weakness of varying severity and onset, with the presence of nemaline rods on muscle biopsy. Congenital nemaline body myopathy due to mutations in TNNT1 has hitherto only been described as a result of a single founder mutation in patients of Amish origin and in 2 other individuals with different recessive mutations. Methods: Autozygosity mapping and whole exome sequencing were applied after we identified 9 Palestinian patients from 7 unrelated families who have nemaline myopathy. Results: All patients were homozygous for a novel complex rearrangement of the TNNT1 gene (c.574_577delinsTAGTGCTGT | NM_003283) leading to C‐terminal truncation of the protein (p.L203* | NP_003274.3). Their clinical course was remarkable for early respiratory failure and striking stiffness of the cervical spine. Conclusions: This report exemplifies the utility of combining autozygosity mapping and whole exome sequencing and expands the phenotype associated with TNNT1 mutations. Muscle Nerve 53: 564–569, 2016
Comparative Effectiveness on Cognitive Asthma Outcomes of the SHARP Academic Asthma Health Education and Counseling Program and a Non‐Academic Program
Authors: Kintner Eileen , Cook Gwendolyn , Marti C. Nathan , Stoddard Debbie , Gomes Melissa , Harmon Phyllis , Van Egeren Laurie A.
Published: August 2015

Asthma morbidity and mortality is higher among older school‐age children and early adolescents than other age groups across the lifespan. NIH recommended expanding asthma education to schools and community settings to meet cognitive outcomes that have an impact on morbidity and mortality. Guided by the acceptance of asthma model, an evidence‐guided, comprehensive school‐based academic health education and counseling program,Staying Healthy—Asthma Responsible & Prepared™ (SHARP), was developed. The program complements existing school curricula by integrating biology, psychology, and sociology content with related spelling, math, and reading and writing assignments. Feasibility, benefits, and efficacy have been established. We compared the effectiveness of SHARP to a non‐academic program, Open Airways for Schools, in improving asthma knowledge and reasoning about symptom management. A two‐group, cluster‐randomized, single‐blinded design was used with a sample of 205 students in grades 4–5 with asthma and their caregivers. Schools were matched prior to randomization. The unit of analysis was the student. Certified elementary school teachers delivered the programs during instructional time. Data were collected from student/caregiver dyads at baseline and at 1, 12, and 24 months after the intervention. In multilevel modeling, students enrolled in the academic SHARP program demonstrated significant (p< .001) improvement in asthma knowledge and reasoning over students enrolled in the non‐academic program. Knowledge advantages were retained at 24 months. Findings support delivery in schools of the SHARP academic health education program for students with asthma. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An investigation for the effect of recycled matrix on the properties of textile waste cotton fiber reinforced (T‐FRP) composites
Authors: Bodur M. Safa , Sonmez Hasret E. , Bakkal Mustafa
Published: August 2015

The main objective of this research is to study the effect of recycled low density polyethylene (r‐LDPE) matrix on the tensile, impact, and flexural properties of the novel textile waste cotton fiber reinforced (T‐FRP) composites. For this purpose, the T‐FRP composites were manufactured by using two different matrix types; namely, virgin LPDE (v‐LDPE) and r‐LDPE, with different waste cotton fiber content. All composites were compatibilized by maleic anhydride‐LDPE (MA‐LDPE) in order to increase the interfacial adhesion between fibers and matrices. Differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, dynamic mechanical analyzer studies were performed in order to characterize the materials. The results have shown that best tensile and flexural properties have been obtained from the composites with the content of 30 wt% cotton fiber, 5 wt% maleic anhydride‐LDPE, and 65 wt% recycled LDPE matrix. However, the impact properties of the composites were decreased drastically compared to the pure LDPE matrix. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:1231–1240, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Transforming growth factor‐β signaling induced during prostate cancer cell death and neuroendocrine differentiation is mediated by bone marrow stromal cells
Authors: Miles Fayth L. , Kurtoglu Senem , Ahmer Chris , Soori Mehrnoosh , Favate John S. , Sikes Robert A.
Published: August 2015

Introduction

Prostate cancer that has metastasized to bone undergoes critical interactions with bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs), ultimately promoting tumor survival. Previous studies have shown that BMSCs secrete factors that promote prostate cancer apoptosis or neuroendocrine differentiation. Because of the significance of transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) family cytokines in cytostasis and bone metastasis, the role of TGF‐β signaling in the context of prostate cancer‐BMSC interactions was investigated.

Methods

The role of TGF‐β family signaling in BMSC‐induced apoptosis of lineage‐related prostate cancer cells was investigated in live/dead assays. SMAD phosphorylation or activity during apoptosis and neuroendocrine differentiation was investigated using immunofluorescence, Western blotting, and luciferase reporter assays, along with the ALK‐4, ‐5, ‐7 kinase inhibitor, SB‐431542.

Results

Treatment of castration‐resistant prostate cancer cells with SB‐431542 resulted in significant reduction of apoptosis mediated by HS‐5 BMSCs, supporting the involvement of TGF‐β/SMAD signaling during this event. Interestingly, however, pre‐treatment of BMSCs with TGF‐β1 (5 ng/mL) yielded a conditioned medium that elicited a marked reduction in prostate cancer death. Phosphorylated‐SMAD2 (P‐SMAD2) was activated in BMSC‐triggered transdifferentiated prostate cancer cells, as demonstrated through immunoblotting and luciferase reporter assays. However, SB‐431542 did not restore androgen receptor and prostate specific antigen levels down‐regulated by BMSC‐secreted factors. Prostate cancer cells induced to undergo neuroendocrine differentiation in a BMSC‐independent mechanism also showed elevated levels of P‐SMAD2.

Discussion

Collectively, our findings indicate that: (1) TGF‐β family cytokines or regulated factors secreted from BMSCs are involved in prostate cancer apoptosis; (2) TGF‐β signaling in prostate cancer cells is induced during neuroendocrine differentiation; and (3) TGF‐β1 stimulation of BMSCs alters paracrine signaling to create a permissive environment for prostate cancer survival, suggesting a mechanism for prostate cancer‐mediated colonization of bone.

Conclusions

TGF‐β signaling resulting in activation of SMAD2 in prostate cancer may be an indicator of cellular stress in the presence of toxic paracrine factors released from the bone marrow stroma, ultimately fostering prostate cancer colonization of bone. Prostate 75:1802–1813, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Potential of CuS cap to prevent decomposition of Cu2ZnSnS4 during annealing
Authors: Larsen Jes K. , Scragg Jonathan J. S. , Frisk Christopher , Ren Yi , Platzer‐Björkman Charlotte
Published: August 2015

One of the challenges associated with processing of Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) is the thermal decomposition reaction that causes loss of S and SnS from the absorber surface. To reduce the decomposition a sufficiently high SnS and S partial pressure must be supplied during annealing. The absorber surface can alternatively be protected with a thin cap. Aiming to obtain a more flexible process, CZTS precursors were capped with a thin CuS layer before annealing. The cap was subsequently removed with a KCN etch before device finishing. It was found that the cap coverage decreased during annealing, exposing a part of the absorber surface. At the same time, the initially Cu poor absorber took up Cu from the cap, ending up with a stoichiometric Cu content. Devices made from capped precursors or precursors annealed without sulfur had poor device characteristics. An increased doping density of almost one order of magnitude could be the reason for the very poor performance. CuS is therefore not a suitable cap material for CZTS. Other cap materials could be investigated to protect the CZTS absorber surface during annealing. A thin CuS cap is deposited on CZTS to prevent surface decomposition during annealing.
Effect of Transport Packaging and Repackaging into Modified Atmosphere on Shelf Life and Quality of Thawed Atlantic Cod Loins
Authors: Hansen Anlaug Ådland , Rødbotten Marit , Lea Per , Rotabakk Bjørn Tore , Birkeland Sveinung , Pettersen Marit Kvalvåg
Published: August 2015

Boxes of expanded polystyrene (EPS, with or without ice added), corrugated cardboard (CC, with or without ice added) and polypropylene (PP, gel‐ice inside the lid) were used in a case study, for transport of cod loins. Shelf life and quality were analysed after repackaging into modified atmosphere by use of culture dependent microbial methods, analysis of bacterial 16S rRNA sequences, sensory descriptive analysis and analysis of volatile components. The CC boxes showed faster temperature reduction compared to the EPS boxes when no ice added. Still, the microbial shelf life did not differ between transport packaging materials, but adding ice resulted in prolonged microbial shelf life. The sensory shelf lives were similar between all the treatments of MAP, but indications of prolonged sensory shelf life for the CC boxes both with and without ice added, compared to the EPS without ice added, were found. The EPS with added ice compared to the EPS without ice added did also show indication of prolonged sensory shelf life. The PP box seemed to have similar quality preservation as the CC samples with added ice. At the end of shelf life at least two different bacteria genera were detected on the MAP products: Psychrobacter, Shewanella, Carnobacterium, Pseudomonas and/or Acinetobacter. Photobacterium was presented in only minor levels, probably related to inactivation because of freezing. Summarized, this study showed that transport packaging concepts of corrugated cardboard boxes and polypropylene boxes preserved quality equally well as the EPS boxes prior to repackaging and further storage in MAP. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polyomavirus BK and prostate cancer: a complex interaction of potential clinical relevance
Authors: Keller Etienne Xavier , Delbue Serena , Tognon Mauro , Provenzano Maurizio
Published: August 2015

Several studies associating BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) and prostate cancer (PCa) suggested that this virus may exert its oncogenic activity at early stages of cancer development. The BKPyV oncogene, the large T antigen (LTag), has frequently been detected in areas of proliferative inflammatory atrophy, which is considered a precursor lesion leading to prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia and overt PCa. In a recently updated systematic review, the presence of BKPyV was significantly higher in PCa tissues than in healthy control tissues, providing an indication for a link between BKPyV infection and cancer risk. In addition, recent original investigations highlighted an association between expression of the virus and the clinical course of PCa. For example, by studying immune responses elicited against BKPyV LTag, a significant association between LTag positive cancer lesions and a peculiar regulatory profiling has been observed in PCa patients with evidence of disease recurrence after surgical radical prostatectomy. Lastly, a study carried out in a larger cohort of patients undergoing radical prostatectomy revealed the IgG response against LTag as an independent predictor of disease recurrence. Although a full picture of the mechanisms potentially responsible for the involvement of BKPyV in PCa is not available yet, continuing work on this topic should help to refine the potential role of BKPyV in PCa patients, perhaps revealing unsuspected associations with the clinical course of this disease. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.