bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regeneration of anion‐exchange resins with Mg/Al double‐metal hydroxides
Authors: Wang Ying , Li Yan‐Sheng , Li Zhun
Published: October 2015

Anion‐exchange resins (AERs) were regenerated with Mg/Al double‐metal hydroxides as the regenerant. Electrical conductivity breakthrough curves were adopted to estimate the relatively rapid regenerative effect of the AERs. The results show that the optimal regenerative effect of AER was obtained when the Mg/Al molar ratio was 3 and the dosages of Mg and Al hydroxides were 0.045 and 0.015 mol, respectively. The highest effluent water yield was obtained at an AER/cation‐exchange resin volume ratio of 2:1. Characterization through scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and thermogravimetry–differential thermal analysis showed that the regenerant was transformed and exhibited the distinguishing features of Mg/Al layered double hydrotalcites. Cycle experimentation showed that all calcined products effectively regenerated the fouled resins, and the regenerative mechanism was then established. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 42928.
Long‐Lasting Activation of the Transcription Factor CREB in Sensory Neurons by Interleukin‐1β During Antigen‐Induced Arthritis in Rats: A Mechanism of Persistent Arthritis Pain?
Authors: Segond von Banchet Gisela , König Christian , Patzer Jessica , Eitner Annett , Leuchtweis Johannes , Ebbinghaus Matthias , Boettger Michael K. , Schaible Hans‐Georg
Published: October 2015

Objective

In spite of successful treatment of immune‐mediated arthritis, many patients still experience pain. We undertook this study to investigate whether antigen‐induced arthritis (AIA) in rats triggers neuronal changes in sensory neurons that outlast the inflammatory process.

Methods

We induced unilateral AIA in the knee joint and assessed in sensory neurons the expression of CREB, a transcription factor that regulates genes involved in neuronal plasticity. We tested whether neutralization of the effects of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) by etanercept or infliximab or neutralization of the effects of interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) by anakinra influences the up‐regulation of phospho‐CREB, and we studied the up‐regulation of phospho‐CREB by IL‐1β and TNF in cultured dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons.

Results

Unilateral AIA caused bilateral up‐regulation of phospho‐CREB in lumbar DRG neurons. While inflammation and pain subsided within 21 days, the up‐regulation of phospho‐CREB still persisted on day 42. At this time point mechanical hyperalgesia at the knee reappeared in the absence of swelling. TNF neutralization during AIA significantly reduced pain‐related behavior but did not prevent phospho‐CREB up‐regulation. In contrast, anakinra, which only reduced thermal hyperalgesia, prevented phospho‐CREB up‐regulation, suggesting a role of IL‐1β in this process. In cultured DRG neurons the application of IL‐1β significantly enhanced phospho‐CREB.

Conclusion

Immune‐mediated arthritis causes neuroplastic changes in sensory neurons that outlast the inflammatory phase. Such changes may facilitate the persistence or recurrence of pain after remission of arthritis. IL‐1β is an important trigger in this process, although its neutralization barely reduced mechanical hyperalgesia during inflammation.
ApoE Receptor 2 Mediation of Trophoblast Dysfunction and Pregnancy Complications Induced by Antiphospholipid Antibodies in Mice
Authors: Ulrich Victoria , Gelber Shari E. , Vukelic Milena , Sacharidou Anastasia , Herz Joachim , Urbanus Rolf T. , de Groot Philip G. , Natale David R. , Harihara Anirudha , Redecha Patricia , Abrahams Vikki M. , Shaul Philip W. , Salmon Jane E. , Mineo Chieko
Published: October 2015

Objective

Pregnancies in women with the antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) are frequently complicated by fetal loss and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). How circulating antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) cause pregnancy complications in APS is poorly understood. We sought to determine whether the low‐density lipoprotein receptor family member apolipoprotein E receptor 2 (ApoER2) mediates trophoblast dysfunction and pregnancy complications induced by aPL.

Methods

Placental and trophoblast ApoER2 expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting. Normal human IgG and aPL were purified from healthy individuals and APS patients, respectively. The role of ApoER2 in aPL‐induced changes in trophoblast proliferation and migration and in kinase activation was assessed using RNA interference in HTR‐8/SVneo cells. The participation of ApoER2 in aPL‐induced pregnancy loss and IUGR was evaluated in pregnant ApoER2+/+ and ApoER2–/– mice injected with aPL or normal human IgG.

Results

We found that ApoER2 is abundant in human and mouse placental trophoblasts and in multiple trophoblast‐derived cell lines, including HTR‐8/SVneo cells. ApoER2 and its interaction with the cell surface protein β2‐glycoprotein I were required for aPL‐induced inhibition of cultured trophoblast proliferation and migration. In parallel, aPL antagonism of Akt kinase activation by epidermal growth factor in trophoblasts was mediated by ApoER2. Furthermore, in a murine passive‐transfer model of pregnancy complications of APS, ApoER2–/– mice were protected from both aPL‐induced fetal loss and aPL‐induced IUGR.

Conclusion

ApoER2 plays a major role in the attenuation of trophoblast function by aPL, and the receptor mediates aPL‐induced pregnancy complications in vivo in mice. ApoER2‐directed interventions can now potentially be developed to combat the pregnancy complications associated with APS.
Autoantibodies From Single Circulating Plasmablasts React With Citrullinated Antigens and Porphyromonas gingivalis in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Li Song , Yu Yangsheng , Yue Yinshi , Liao Hongyan , Xie Wanqin , Thai Jessica , Mikuls Ted R. , Thiele Geoffrey M. , Duryee Michael J. , Sayles Harlan , Payne Jeffrey B. , Klassen Lynell W. , O'Dell James R. , Zhang Zhixin , Su Kaihong
Published: October 2015

Objective

Anti–citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs) are highly specific for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, the molecular basis for ACPA production is still unclear. The purpose of this study was to determine if circulating plasmablasts from RA patients produce ACPAs and whether Porphyromonas gingivalis facilitates the generation of ACPAs.

Methods

Using a single‐cell antibody cloning approach, we generated 217 and 110 monoclonal recombinant antibodies from circulating plasmablasts from 7 RA patients and 4 healthy controls, respectively. Antibody reactivity with citrullinated antigens was tested by a second‐generation anti–cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti‐CCP) kit and by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) against citrullinated human antigens. Antibody reactivity with P gingivalis was tested by ELISAs against outer membrane antigens (OMAs) and citrullinated enolase from P gingivalis.

Results

Approximately 19.5% of plasmablast‐derived antibodies from anti‐CCP–positive RA patients, but none from 1 anti‐CCP–negative RA patient or the healthy controls, specifically recognized citrullinated antigens. The immunoglobulin genes encoding these ACPAs were highly mutated, with increased ratios of replacement mutations to silent mutations, suggesting the involvement of active antigen selection in ACPA generation. Interestingly, 63% of the ACPAs cross‐reacted with OMAs and/or citrullinated enolase from P gingivalis. The reactivity of ACPAs against citrullinated proteins from P gingivalis was confirmed by immunoblotting and mass spectrometry. Furthermore, some germline‐reverted ACPAs retained their reactivity with P gingivalis antigens but completely lost their reactivity with citrullinated human antigens.

Conclusion

These results suggest that circulating plasmablasts in RA patients produce ACPAs and that this process may be facilitated by anti–P gingivalis immune responses.
Sexual Dimorphism in the Th17 Signature of Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: Gracey Eric , Yao YuChen , Green Blerta , Qaiyum Zoya , Baglaenko Yuriy , Lin Aifeng , Anton Ammepa , Ayearst Renise , Yip Paul , Inman Robert D.
Published: October 2015

Objective

To identify an immunologic basis for the male sex bias in ankylosing spondylitis (AS).

Methods

Cohorts of male and female patients with AS and age‐ and sex‐matched healthy control subjects were selected, and the levels of serum cytokines (interferon‐γ [IFNγ], tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin‐17A [IL‐17A], and IL‐6) were examined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, the frequencies of Th1 and Th17 cells were assessed by flow cytometry, and whole blood gene expression was analyzed using both microarray and NanoString approaches.

Results

The frequency of IL‐17A and Th17 cells, both of which are key factors in the inflammatory Th17 axis, was elevated in male patients with AS but not in female patients with AS. In contrast, AS‐associated alterations in the Th1 axis, such as the frequency of IFNγ and Th1 cells in serum, were independent of a patient's sex. Results of microarray analysis supported an altered Th17 axis in male patients, with a specific increase in IL17RA. In addition, male and female patients with AS displayed shared gene expression patterns, while male patients with AS had additional alterations in gene expression that were not seen in female patients with AS. The differential sex‐related immune profiles were independent of HLA–B27 status, clinical disease activity (as measured by the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index), or treatment (with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs or biologic agents), implicating intrinsic sexual dimorphism in AS.

Conclusion

The results of this study demonstrate distinct sexual dimorphism in the activation status of the immune system in patients with AS, particularly in the Th17 axis. This dimorphism could underlie sex‐related differences in the clinical features of AS and could provide a rationale for sex‐specific treatment of AS.
The Prevalence of Symptomatic Knee Osteoarthritis in China: Results From the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study
Authors: Tang Xu , Wang Shengfeng , Zhan Siyan , Niu Jingbo , Tao Ke , Zhang Yuqing , Lin Jianhao
Published: October 2015

Objective

To estimate the prevalence of symptomatic knee osteoarthritis (OA) in China.

Methods

Using data collected from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, a population‐based longitudinal survey conducted between 2011 and 2012, we estimated the prevalence of symptomatic knee OA according to sex, age, rural/urban area, socioeconomic status, and geographic region.

Results

Among 17,128 individuals (8,367 men and 8,761 women; mean age 59.8 years) included in the analysis, 8.1% had symptomatic knee OA. The prevalence of symptomatic knee OA was higher in women (10.3%) compared with men (5.7%) (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.88 [95% confidence interval 1.64–2.17]). The prevalence of symptomatic knee OA increased with age (P for trend <0.01). Symptomatic knee OA was more common in rural areas than in urban areas (OR 1.84 [95% confidence interval 1.46–2.31]). The prevalence of symptomatic knee OA was lower among individuals who had received more years of education and who lived in more developed areas (P for trend <0.01). The North and East regions of China had the lowest prevalence of symptomatic knee OA (5.4% and 5.5%, respectively), followed by the North‐East (7.0%), South‐Central (7.8%), and North‐West (10.8%) regions. The prevalence was highest (13.7%) in subjects living in the South‐West region.

Conclusion

Symptomatic knee OA in China was prevalent, and the prevalence varied according to sociodemographic, economic, and geographic factors. Epidemiologic studies identifying risk factors that contribute to variation in the prevalence of symptomatic knee OA in China are warranted.
Risk Factors for Targeted Fungal and Mycobacterial Infections in Patients Taking Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitors
Authors: Salt Elizabeth , Wiggins Amanda T. , Rayens Mary Kay , Huaman Moises A. , Mannino David , Schwieterman Philip , Merkley Scott A. , Jones Allison R. , Crofford Leslie J.
Published: October 2015

Objective

To identify predictors of the receipt of medical care, including the receipt of pre‐drug screening, for diagnostically targeted fungal or mycobacterial infections among patients prescribed a tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi).

Methods

We conducted a case–control study using deidentified patient health claims information from a data set representing a commercially insured US population of 15 million patients annually from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2009. Descriptive statistics as well as a 2‐sample t‐test, chi‐square test of association, Fisher's exact test, and multivariate logistic regression were used for data analysis.

Results

A total of 30,772 patients received a TNFi during the study period. Of these, 158 patients (0.51%) developed targeted fungal and/or mycobacterial infections (cases). The median number of infections per case was 1.0 (interquartile range 1.0–2.0). Tuberculosis was diagnosed in 61% of cases, followed by histoplasmosis in 60%, nontuberculous mycobacterial infections in 11%, coccidioidomycosis in 10%, unspecified fungal infection in 8%, blastomycosis in 4%, cryptococcal infection in 3%, and pneumocystosis in 2%. Compared to controls (n = 474), a higher proportion of cases were prescribed prednisone (55% versus 37%; P < 0.001). Patients who were prescribed prednisone during the study period were twice as likely as those not taking prednisone to seek medical care attributable to a targeted fungal or mycobacterial infection (odds ratio 2.03; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Development of a targeted fungal or mycobacterial infection among patients taking a TNFi is rare. Concomitant use of prednisone predicted development of such infections.
VX‐509 (Decernotinib), an Oral Selective JAK‐3 Inhibitor, in Combination With Methotrexate in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Genovese Mark C. , van Vollenhoven Ronald F. , Pacheco‐Tena César , Zhang Yanqiong , Kinnman Nils
Published: October 2015

Objective

To assess the efficacy and safety of decernotinib (VX‐509), an oral selective inhibitor of JAK‐3, in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in whom the response to methotrexate treatment was inadequate.

Methods

In this 24‐week, double‐blind, randomized phase IIb study, 358 patients with active RA received either placebo (n = 71) or VX‐509 at dosages of 100 mg/day (n = 71), 150 mg/day (n = 72), 200 mg/day (n = 72), or 100 mg twice daily (n = 72). Primary measures of efficacy at week 12 were the response rate according to the American College of Rheumatology 20% improvement criteria (ACR20) and change from baseline in the Disease Activity Score in 28 joints using the C‐reactive protein level (DAS28‐CRP).

Results

At week 12, the ACR20 response rates were 46.5%, 66.7%, 56.9%, and 68.1% in the groups receiving VX‐509 at dosages of 100 mg/day, 150 mg/day, 200 mg/day, and 100 mg twice daily, respectively, and 18.3% in the placebo group (P < 0.001 for all comparisons). At week 12, the mean change from baseline in the DAS28‐CRP was significantly greater in each VX‐509 group compared with the placebo group (P < 0.001). Improvements were maintained at week 24, as shown by the ACR20, ACR50, and ACR70 response rates and mean change from baseline in the DAS28‐CRP. The most common adverse event in the VX‐509 group was headache (8.7%), and elevated levels of transaminases, lipoproteins, and creatinine were observed.

Conclusion

VX‐509 significantly improved the signs and symptoms of RA at weeks 12 and 24 compared with the placebo group when it was administered in combination with methotrexate. Safety signals included infection and increases in liver transaminase and lipid levels.
Identification of an Association of TNFAIP3 Polymorphisms With Matrix Metalloproteinase Expression in Fibroblasts in an Integrative Study of Systemic Sclerosis–Associated Genetic and Environmental Factors
Authors: Wei Peng , Yang Yang , Guo Xinjian , Hei Nainan , Lai Syeling , Assassi Shervin , Liu Mengyuan , Tan Filemon , Zhou Xiaodong
Published: October 2015

Objective

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a fibrotic disease attributed to both genetic susceptibility and environmental factors. This study was undertaken to investigate the associations between SSc‐associated genetic variants and the expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) genes in human fibroblasts stimulated with silica particles in time‐course and dose‐response experiments.

Methods

A total of 200 fibroblast strains were examined for ECM gene expression after stimulation with silica particles. The fibroblasts were genetically profiled using Immunochip assays and then subjected to whole‐genome genotype imputation. Associations of genotypes and gene expression were first analyzed in a Caucasian cohort and then validated in a meta‐analysis combining the results from Caucasian, African American, and Hispanic subjects. A linear mixed model for longitudinal data analysis was used to identify genetic variants associated with the expression of ECM genes, and the associations were validated by using a haplotype‐based longitudinal association test on regions that included the loci identified.

Results

The single‐nucleotide polymorphism rs58905141 in TNFAIP3 was consistently associated with time‐course and/or dose‐response expression of MMP3 and MMP1 in the fibroblasts stimulated with silica particles in both the analysis of Caucasian subjects only and the meta‐analysis. Results of the haplotype‐based analysis validated the association signals.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that a genetic variant of TNFAIP3 is strongly associated with the silica‐induced profibrotic response of fibroblasts. In silico functional analysis based on the ENCODE database revealed that rs58905141 might affect the binding activities of the transcription factors for TNFAIP3. This is the first genome‐wide study of interactions between genetic and environmental factors in a complex SSc fibroblast model.
Antifibrotic, Antioxidant, and Immunomodulatory Effects of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in HOCl‐Induced Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Maria Alexandre T. J. , Toupet Karine , Bony Claire , Pirot Nelly , Vozenin Marie‐Catherine , Petit Benoît , Roger Pascal , Batteux Frédéric , Le Quellec Alain , Jorgensen Christian , Noël Danièle , Guilpain Philippe
Published: October 2015

Objective

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare intractable disease with unmet medical need and fibrosis‐related mortality. Absence of efficient treatments has prompted the development of novel therapeutic strategies, among which mesenchymal stem cells/stromal cells (MSCs) or progenitor stromal cells appear to be one of the most attractive options. The purpose of this study was to use the murine model of hypochlorite‐induced SSc to investigate the systemic effects of MSCs on the main features of the diffuse form of the disease: skin and lung fibrosis, autoimmunity, and oxidative status.

Methods

We compared the effects of different doses of MSCs (2.5 × 105, 5 × 105, and 106) infused at different time points. Skin thickness was assessed during the experiment. At the time of euthanasia, biologic parameters were quantified in blood and tissues (by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction, assessment of collagen content). Assessments of histology and immunostaining were also performed.

Results

A lower expression of markers of fibrosis (Col1, Col3, Tgfb1, and aSma) was observed in both skin and lung following MSC infusion, which was consistent with histologic improvement and was inversely proportional to the injected dose. Importantly, sera from treated mice exhibited lower levels of anti–Scl‐70 autoantibodies and enhanced antioxidant capacity, confirming the systemic effect of MSCs. Of interest, MSC administration was efficient in both the preventive and the curative approach. We further provide evidence that MSCs exerted an antifibrotic role by normalizing extracellular matrix remodeling parameters as well as reducing proinflammatory cytokine levels and increasing antioxidant defenses.

Conclusion

The results of this study demonstrate the beneficial and systemic effects of MSC administration in the HOCl murine model of diffuse SSc, which is a promising finding from a clinical perspective.
Salt tolerant chromatography provides salt tolerance and a better selectivity for protein monomer separations
Authors: Yoshimoto Noriko , Itoh Daisuke , Isakari Yu , Podgornik Ales , Yamamoto Shuichi
Published: October 2015

Salt tolerant chromatography (STC) is an attractive method as buffer exchange during protein purification processes can be skipped; however, the retention and separation mechanism of such STC are still not fully understood. We carried out linear gradient elution (LGE) experiments of bovine serum albumin (BSA) including its dimer form by using poly‐amine ligand STC. The peak salt concentration IR was measured as a function of normalized gradient slope GH, and the number of binding sites B was determined. The separation performance of monomer and dimer was much higher for STC. The IR values of BSA monomer and dimer for STC were much higher (IR > 0.5M) than those for conventional IEC. The IR values of arginine‐Cl gradient decreased markedly compared to those of NaCl gradient whereas they did not change for conventional IEC. This might be due to combined effects of electrostatic and hydrophobic interaction to the retention of proteins in STC. Adding polyethylene glycol (PEG) into the mobile phase of IEC also increased the retention (salt tolerance) and the resolution of BSA monomer and dimer. Higher viscosity and low solubility of proteins due to PEG were disadvantages of this method. STC with poly‐amine ligand might be also suited for the continuous flow‐through separation of monomer.
Dual utilization of NADPH and NADH cofactors enhances xylitol production in engineered Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Jo Jung‐Hyun , Oh Sun‐Young , Lee Hyeun‐Soo , Park Yong‐Cheol , Seo Jin‐Ho
Published: October 2015

Xylitol, a natural sweetener, can be produced by hydrogenation of xylose in hemicelluloses. In microbial processes, utilization of only NADPH cofactor limited commercialization of xylitol biosynthesis. To overcome this drawback, Saccharomyces cerevisiae D452‐2 was engineered to express two types of xylose reductase (XR) with either NADPH‐dependence or NADH‐preference. Engineered S. cerevisiae DWM expressing both the XRs exhibited higher xylitol productivity than the yeast strain expressing NADPH‐dependent XR only (DWW) in both batch and glucose‐limited fed‐batch cultures. Furthermore, the coexpression of S. cerevisiae ZWF1 and ACS1 genes in the DWM strain increased intracellular concentrations of NADPH and NADH and improved maximum xylitol productivity by 17%, relative to that for the DWM strain. Finally, the optimized fed‐batch fermentation of S. cerevisiae DWM‐ZWF1‐ACS1 resulted in 196.2 g/L xylitol concentration, 4.27 g/L h productivity and almost the theoretical yield. Expression of the two types of XR utilizing both NADPH and NADH is a promising strategy to meet the industrial demands for microbial xylitol production.
MDM4 SNP34091 (rs4245739) and its effect on breast‐, colon‐, lung‐, and prostate cancer risk
Authors: Gansmo Liv B. , Romundstad Pål , Birkeland Einar , Hveem Kristian , Vatten Lars , Knappskog Stian , Lønning Per Eystein
Published: October 2015

The MDM4 protein plays an important part in the negative regulation of the tumor suppressor p53 through its interaction with MDM2. In line with this, MDM4 amplification has been observed in several tumor forms. A polymorphism (rs4245739 A>C; SNP34091) in the MDM4 3′ untranslated region has been reported to create a target site for hsa‐miR‐191, resulting in decreased MDM4 mRNA levels. In this population‐based case–control study, we examined the potential association between MDM4 SNP34091, alone and in combination with the MDM2 SNP309T>G (rs2279744), and the risk of breast‐, colon‐, lung‐, and prostate cancer in Norway. SNP34091 was genotyped in 7,079 cancer patients as well as in 3,747 gender‐ and age‐matched healthy controls. MDM4 SNP34091C was not associated with risk for any of the tumor forms examined, except for a marginally significant association with reduced risk for breast cancer in a recessive model (OR = 0.77: 95% CI = 0.59–0.99). Stratifying according to MDM2 SNP309 status, we observed a reduced risk for breast cancer related to MDM4 SNP34091CC among individuals harboring the MDM2 SNP309GG genotype (OR = 0.41; 95% CI = 0.21–0.82). We conclude, MDM4 SNP34091 status to be associated with reduced risk of breast cancer, in particular in individuals carrying the MDM2 SNP309GG genotype, but not to be associated with either lung‐, colon‐ or prostate cancer.
The interplay of emotions, elaboration, and ambivalence on attitude–behavior consistency
Authors: Jiang Hongyan , Liang Jianping , Wang Haizhong , Sun Peizhen
Published: October 2015

Previous research on the relationship between attitudinal ambivalence and behavioral prediction mainly focused on the cognitive perspective. This paper introduces the simultaneous roles played by emotions (positive or negative) and elaboration. We find that both emotions and elaboration could moderate the effect of attitudinal ambivalence on attitude–behavior consistency. Furthermore, positive and negative emotions have different psychological mechanisms: positive emotions influence attitude–behavior consistency directly; negative emotions influence attitude–behavior consistency indirectly through elaboration. This article also discusses the theory contribution, marketing implication, and avenues for future research. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Relationship between Surface Roughness, Internal Crystal Perfection, and Crystal Growth Rate
Authors: Galbraith Shaun C. , Flood Adrian E. , Rugmai Supagorn , Chirawatkul Prae
Published: October 2015

Potential mechanisms affecting growth rate dispersion (GRD) are investigated. Previous studies have identified surface roughness and internal lattice perfection as key mechanisms which are both evaluated with respect to GRD. Crystal growth of potassium dihydrogen phosphate was studied in two solvent mixtures, water and water‐ethanol. The surface roughness was analyzed by atomic force microscopy and the internal crystal perfection by X‐ray diffraction using a synchrotron source. The crystals grown at higher supersaturation have more pronounced and more frequent surface irregularities, supporting previous findings on a feedback mechanism between surface roughness and growth rate. No significant relationship was found between internal crystal perfection and growth rate, however, this is likely due to the size of the crystals analyzed herein and not the absence of any such mechanism in small crystals.
Oligomerization of n‐Butenes in a Two‐Phase Reaction System with Homogeneous Ni/Al‐Catalysts
Authors: Behr Arno , Bayrak Zeynep , Samli Güner , Yildiz Dilbar , Peitz Stefan , Stochniol Guido
Published: October 2015

The oligomerization of n‐butenes in a two‐phase catalyst system consisting of a Lewis acidic ionic liquid (IL) and a nonpolar phase is described. A highly active catalyst system with NiCl2(PMe3)2 was investigated, resulting in 91 % dimers with N‐methylpyrrole as a buffer. The reaction was found to be dependent on the molar ratio of the IL to the catalyst. Additionally, the influence of the Lewis acid was investigated and AlCl3 was determined as the most suitable for activating the nickel complex. The concentration of AlCl3 played an important role in achieving high catalyst activity and dimer selectivity. Several reactions with different pyrrole derivatives demonstrated that the use of a buffer with low steric hindrance was also important with regard to increased dimer selectivity.
Isoprene Polymerization on Iron Nanoparticles Confined in Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Li Xiaojian , Zhang Liping , Tan Reasmey P. , Fazzini Pier‐Francesco , Hungria Teresa , Durand Jérôme , Lachaize Sébastien , Sun Wen‐Hua , Respaud Marc , Soulantica Katerina , Serp Philippe
Published: October 2015

The confinement of air‐protected metallic magnetic nanoparticles in the inner cavity of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) should offer an interesting perspective for biomedical applications or for controlling CNT alignment in composites. Because the direct confinement of polymer‐precoated nanoparticles in CNTs could be restricted by diffusion limitations, we developed a process based on: 1) the confinement of iron nanoparticles surface‐modified with an iron polymerization catalyst in the cavity of CNTs and 2) the polymerization of isoprene on the confined nanoparticles. The resulting material consists in CNT‐confined iron nanoparticles coated with a polyisoprene air barrier. This approach constitutes a proof of concept for the development of smart materials for use in medicine or composites.
Oxidation of a P−C Bond under Mild Conditions
Authors: Ilić Gordana , Gaguly Rakesh , Petković Milena , Vidović Dragoslav
Published: October 2015

The reactivity of phosphenium dication [(Ph3P)2C‐P‐NiPr2]2+, 12+, towards pyridine N‐oxide (O‐py) has been investigated. The resulting oxophosphonium dication [(Ph3P)2C(NiPr2)P(O)(O‐py)]2+, 22+, was surprisingly stabilized by a less nucleophilic O‐py ligand instead of pyridine (py). This compound was then identified as an analogue of the elusive Criegee intermediate as it underwent oxygen insertion into the P−C bond through a mechanism usually observed for Baeyer–Villiger oxidations. This oxygen insertion appears to be the first example of a Baeyer–Villiger oxidation involving O‐py.
Incremental computations over strongly distributed databases
Authors: Ravve Elena V.
Published: October 2015

This contribution deals with systematic exploitation of logical reduction techniques to big distributed data handling. The particular applications are views and parallel updates over large‐scale distributed databases as well as handling of queries over different generations of databases. Logical reduction techniques come in two favors. The first one: the syntactically defined translation schemes, which describe transformations of database schemes. They give rise to two induced maps, translations and transductions. Transductions describe the induced transformation of database instances and the translations describe the induced transformations of queries. The second one: Feferman‐Vaught reductions, which are applied in situations of distributed databases. The reduction describes how the queries over a distributed database can be computed from queries over the components and queries over the index set. Combination and development of these techniques allow us to introduce the notion of strongly distributed databases. For such databases, we extend and generalize the known propagation techniques. The method allows unification of the distributed and parallel computation and communication as well as significant reduction of the communication load. The proposed general approach may be easily adopted to other distributed objects and their integration into large‐scale systems. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Low‐Intensity Mindfulness‐Based Intervention for Mood Symptoms in People with Early Psychosis: Development and Pilot Evaluation
Authors: Tong Alan Chun Yat , Lin Jessie Jing Xia , Cheung Veronica Yuen Ki , Lau Nicole Ka Man , Chang Wing Chung , Chan Sherry Kit Wa , Hui Christy Lai Ming , Lee Edwin Ho Ming , Chen Eric Yu Hai
Published: October 2015

Background

Depressive and anxiety symptoms are common in people suffering from early psychosis. Growing evidence shows that mindfulness‐based intervention is an effective option in handling depression and anxiety disorders. Current article aims to provide documentation on the development and pilot study, before a RCT of larger scale, evaluating the acceptability and potential effects of a 7‐week mindfulness‐based intervention programme (MBI‐p).

Method

MBI‐p was developed over nine months in 2014. A total of 14 people with early psychosis were recruited to three pilot trials of MBI‐p. Eleven of them completed the programme and were interviewed. Eight of them were measured quantitatively at baseline and post‐intervention on clinical symptoms, depression and anxiety levels, quality of life and mindfulness.

Results

Mixed qualitative and quantitative results supported MBI‐p as an acceptable and feasible intervention. Significant statistical improvements were found in depression levels, mental quality of life, general psychopathology and ability to observe emotions and act with awareness. Qualitative comments suggested that the intervention was safe, enjoyable and had a positive impact on mood symptoms. In summary, these results provide a promising pilot support for a potentially effective and cost‐efficient treatment option for people with early psychosis. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message

Depressive and anxiety symptoms are common in people with early psychosis but long received little attention.

A low‐intensity mindfulness‐based intervention targeting depression and anxiety symptoms among people with early psychosis was developed and pilot tested.

It is feasible and acceptable to use mindfulness‐based intervention as a complementary treatment for psychosis.
Add these tools to your ASD toolbox
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: October 2015

ST. PAUL, MINN. — Chances are you're seeing a lot more students with autism spectrum disorder on your campus than you did in years past. Among the age group of students entering college now, the prevalence of individuals with ASD is about one in 110 people, said Michelle Rigler, director of the Disability Resource Center and the MoSAIC program at the University of Tennessee‐Chattanooga. Building a toolbox can help you serve students with ASD from their adjustment to college to their successful job hunt.
Nursing school sued for rescinding admission for student with hearing disability
Authors: Charmatz Marc
Published: October 2015

Earlier this year, I reported that a medical school had been sued for violating Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act by first admitting and then rescinding the application of a deaf student. See Featherstone v. Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences, No. 1: CV‐14‐3084 (E.D. Wash. 07/22/14). In that case, a Washington federal court issued a preliminary injunction ordering the medical school to enroll the student. Now, again, according to a recent lawsuit filed in Ohio, a community college has violated Title II of the ADA and Section 504 by admitting a student with a hearing disability in the college's licensed practical nurse and registered nurse program and then rescinding her application on the basis of her disability. See Parrott‐Copus v. Terra State Community College, No. 3: CV‐01753 (N.D. Ohio 08/31/15).
Solid‐phase extraction of small biologically active peptides on cartridges and microelution 96‐well plates from human urine
Authors: Semenistaya Ekaterina , Zvereva Irina , Krotov Grigory , Rodchenkov Grigory
Published: October 2015

Currently liquid chromatography – mass spectrometry (LC‐MS) analysis after solid‐phase extraction (SPE) on weak cation‐exchange cartridges is a method of choice for anti‐doping analysis of small bioactive peptides such as growth hormone releasing peptides (GHRPs), desmoporessin, LHRH, and TB‐500 short fragment. Dilution of urine samples with phosphate buffer for pH adjustment and SPE on weak cation exchange microelution plates was tested as a means to increase throughput of this analysis. Dilution using 200 mM phosphate buffer provides good buffering capacity without affecting the peptides recoveries. SPE on microelution plates was performed on Waters Positive Pressure‐96 Processor with subsequent evaporation of eluates in nitrogen flow. Though the use of smaller sample volume decreases the pre‐concentration factor and increases the limits of detection of 5 out of 17 detected peptides, the recovery, linearity, and reproducibility of the microelution extraction were comparable with cartridge SPE. The effectiveness of protocols was confirmed by analysis of urine samples containing ipamorelin, and GHRP‐6 and its metabolites. SPE after urine sample dilution with buffer can be used for faster sample preparation. The use of microelution plates decreases consumption of solvents and allows processing of up to 96 samples simultaneously. Cartridge SPE with manual рН adjustment remains the best option for confirmation. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Circulating biomarkers of distinct pathophysiological pathways in heart failure with preserved vs. reduced left ventricular ejection fraction
Authors: Sanders‐van Wijk S. , van Empel V. , Davarzani N. , Maeder M. T. , Handschin R. , Pfisterer M. E. , Brunner‐La Rocca H. P. ,   for the TIME‐CHF investigators
Published: October 2015

Aims

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether biomarkers reflecting pathophysiological pathways are different between heart failure with preserved (HFpEF) and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and whether the prognostic value of biomarkers is different in HFpEF vs. HFrEF.

Methods and results

A total of 458 HFrEF (LVEF ≤40%) and 112 HFpEF (LVEF ≥50%) patients aged ≥60 years with NYHA class ≥II from TIME‐CHF were included. Endpoints are 18‐month overall and HF hospitalization‐free survival. After correction for baseline characteristics that differed between the HF types, i.e. age, gender, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, cause of HF, and AF, HFpEF patients exhibited higher soluble interleukin 1 receptor‐like 1 [ST2; 37.6 (28.5–54.7) vs. 35.7 (25.6–52.2), P = 0.02], high sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP; 8.54 (3.39–25.86) vs. 6.66 (2.42–15.39), P = 0.01), and cystatin‐C [1.94 (1.57–2.37) vs. 1.75 (1.39–2.12), P = 0.01]. In contrast, HFrEF patients exhibited higher NT‐proBNP [2142 (1473–4294) vs. 4202 (2239–7411), P < 0.001], high sensitivity troponin T [hsTnT; 27.7 (16.8–48.0) vs. 32.4 (19.2–59.0), P = 0.03], and haemoglobin [124 (110–135) vs. 134 (122–145), P < 0.001]. In addition to these clinical characteristics, NT‐proBNP, haemoglobin, cystatin‐C, hsTnT, and ST2 improved the area under the curve from 0.86 (0.82–0.89) to 0.91 (0.87–0.94; P < 0.001) for discriminating HFpEF from HFrEF. There were no significant interactions between HFpEF and HFrEF when considering the prognostic value of the investigated biomarkers (P > 0.10 for both endpoints), except for cystatin‐C which had less prognostic impact in HFpEF (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Biomarker levels suggest a different amount of activation of several pathophysiological pathways between HFpEF and HFrEF. No important differences in the prognostic value of biomarkers in HFpEF vs. HFrEF were found except for cystatin‐C, and for NT‐proBNP in the NT‐proBNP‐guided study arm only, both of which had less prognostic value in HFpEF.

Trial registration

ISRCTN43596477
Color‐Tunable Luminescence of YNbO4:Ln3+ (Ln3+ = Dy3+ and/or Eu3+) Nanocrystalline Phosphors Prepared by a Sol–Gel Process
Authors: Lü Ying , Chen Chen , Li Shuailong , Liu Xiaoming , Yan Liushui , Dai Yuhua , Zhang Aiqin , Xie Yu , Tang Xinghua
Published: October 2015

A series of YNbO4:Ln3+ (Ln3+ = Dy3+ and/or Eu3+) phosphors have been synthesized by a Pechini‐type sol–gel method. X‐ray diffraction, field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy were utilized to characterize the prepared phosphors. The pure phase of YNbO4 was obtained after annealing at 1000 °C. The morphologies of the YNbO4:Ln3+ (Ln3+ = Dy3+ and/or Eu3+) phosphors are approximately spherical grains with a diameter of around 40–60 nm. The luminescence properties of the YNbO4:Ln3+ (Ln3+ = Dy3+ and/or Eu3+) phosphors were investigated by photo‐ and cathodoluminescence methods. Under the excitation of UV light and a low‐voltage electron beam, the YNbO4:Ln3+ (Ln3+ = Dy3+ and/or Eu3+) phosphors obtained show characteristic blue wide‐band emission from the NbO4 group, whitish light emission from Dy3+, and red emission from Eu3+. Energy is transferred from the YNbO4 host lattice to the Dy3+ and Eu3+ ions. Single‐phase white‐light‐emision was observed in YNbO4:Dy3+ phosphors under the excitation of UV light and a low‐voltage electron beam. The color rendering index of the YNbO4:Dy3+ phosphor can be further improved by co‐doping YNbO4:Dy3+ with the Eu3+ ion. The emission color of the YNbO4:Dy3+,Eu3+ phosphors can be simply tuned by changing the relative ratio of the Dy3+/Eu3+ ions. The prepared YNbO4:Dy3+ and YNbO4:Dy3+,Eu3+ phosphors have potential applications in UV white‐light‐emitting diodes and other optoelectronics display devices.
The Role of Solvent and the Outer Coordination Sphere on H2 Oxidation Using [Ni(PCy2NPyz2)2]2+
Authors: Dutta Arnab , Lense Sheri , Roberts John A. S. , Helm Monte L. , Shaw Wendy J.
Published: October 2015

Hydrogenase enzymes are reversible catalysts for H2 production/oxidation, operating with fast rates and minimal overpotentials in water. Many synthetic catalyst mimics of hydrogenase operate in organic solvents. However, recent work has demonstrated the importance of water in the performance of some model complexes. In this work, the H2 oxidation activity of [Ni(PCy2N(3–pyridazyl)methyl2)2]2+ (CyPyz) was compared as a function of acetonitrile, methanol, and water. The reactivity was compared under neutral and acidic conditions in all three solvents and improvement in catalytic activity, from 2 to 40 s–1, was observed with increasing hydrogen bonding ability of the solvent. In addition, the overpotential for catalysis drops significantly in the presence of acid in all solvents, from as high as 600 mV to as low as 70 mV, primarily due to the shift in the equilibrium potential under these conditions. Finally, H2 production was also observed in the same solution, demonstrating bidirectional (irreversible) homogeneous H2 production/oxidation. A structurally and electronically similar complex with a benzyl instead of a pyridazyl group was not stable under these conditions, limiting the evaluation of the contributions of the outer coordination sphere. Collectively, we show that by tuning conditions we can promote fast, efficient H2 oxidation and bidirectional catalysis.
Synthesis and Structural Characterization of Ammonio/Hydroxo Undecachloro‐closo‐Dodecaborates [B12Cl11NH3]–/[B12Cl11OH]2– and Their Derivatives
Authors: Zhang Yuanbin , Liu Jiyong , Duttwyler Simon
Published: October 2015

Anions [B12Cl11NH3]– and [B12Cl11OH]2– were prepared in high yields from the known precursors [B12H11NH3]– and [B12H11OH]2– by using SO2Cl2. Reaction monitoring by 11B NMR spectroscopy and ESI‐mass spectrometry indicated that SO2Cl2 serves as a convenient chlorination reagent in both transformations. This chemical is an alternative to SbCl5 or chlorine gas, which have been used in reported procedures. [B12Cl11NMe3]– was prepared in 92 % overall yield from [B12H11NH3]– salts without isolation of the unmethylated intermediate. Starting from [B12Cl11OH]2–, [B12Cl11OS(O)CF3]2– was obtained unexpectedly by using Tf2O in pyridine/CH2Cl2 by a rare reduction process, while [B12Cl11OTs]2– was synthesized by using TsCl in pyridine. All compounds were fully characterized by NMR and IR spectroscopy and ESI‐mass spectrometry. [Ag(MeCN)4][B12Cl11NH3], [Et4N][B12Cl11NH3], [Me4N]2[B12Cl11OH], [Et3NH][Cs][B12Cl11OH], [Ph3PMe]2[B12Cl11OS(O)CF3], and [MePPh3]2[B12Cl11OTs] were studied by X‐ray diffraction.
Separation of turkey lactate dehydrogenase isoenzymes using isoelectric focusing technique
Authors: Heinová Dagmar , Kostecká Zuzana , Csank Tomáš
Published: October 2015

Native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis at pH 8.8 did not allow to separate lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) isoenzymes of turkey origin. Five electrophoretically distinguishable forms of the enzyme were detected in serum and tissues of turkey using IEF technique in a pH range of 3–9. Generally, three different groups were seen: (i) those having an anodic domination (heart, kidney, pancreas, and erythrocytes) with mainly LDH‐1 fraction, (ii) those having a cathodic domination (breast muscle and serum) with prevalence of LDH‐5, and (iii) those with a more uniform distribution (liver, spleen, lung, and brain). The specific enzyme activity was the highest in the breast muscle, followed by heart muscle, and brain. Low activities were detected in serum, kidney, and liver.
The influence of meander bend evolution on the formation of multiple cutoffs: findings inferred from floodplain architecture and bend geometry
Authors: Słowik Marcin
Published: October 2015

The evolution of meander bends and formation of cutoffs, including a series of cutoffs developed simultaneously in a number of bends, have been investigated by many researchers. However, relatively little is known about factors that lead to the development of multiple cutoffs that are formed subsequently at one location. The present study aims to determine the influence of meander bend development on multiple chute cutoff formation in a single bend. The research is based on the sedimentary record of meander migration and cutoffs preserved in a lowland river floodplain (the lower Obra River, Poland). Analysis of changes in meander geometry was conducted to describe the influence of their migration on cutoff formation and in other rivers where multiple cutoffs occurred. The results showed that multiple cutoffs in the lower Obra River have occurred during the last 3000 years, owing to the interaction of upstream and downstream controls: migration of meander bends in opposing directions accompanied by an increase of flood frequency and sediment supply. The flow and sediment supply has been further altered since the nineteenth century due to anthropogenic impacts: an artificial cutoff of the downstream bend and elevation of channel levées. Similar mechanisms driving the formation of multiple cutoff have been found in other river courses, despite significantly higher energy of the compared rivers. Moreover, development of a confined‐shape bend (caused by artificial barrier or autogenic bend behaviour) may also favour the formation of multiple cutoffs. However, counter migration of meanders enhanced by increased flood frequency and sediment supply are primary triggers for such events. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Akt‐mediated foxo1 inhibition is required for liver regeneration
Authors: Pauta Montse , Rotllan Noemi , Fernández‐Hernando Ana , Langhi Cedric , Ribera Jordi , Lu Mingjian , Boix Loreto , Bruix Jordi , Jimenez Wladimiro , Suárez Yajaira , Ford David A. , Baldán Angel , Birnbaum Morris J. , Morales‐Ruiz Manuel , Fernández‐Hernando Carlos
Published: October 2015

Understanding the hepatic regenerative process has clinical interest as the effectiveness of many treatments for chronic liver diseases is conditioned by efficient liver regeneration. Experimental evidence points to the need for a temporal coordination between cytokines, growth factors, and metabolic signaling pathways to enable successful liver regeneration. One intracellular mediator that acts as a signal integration node for these processes is the serine‐threonine kinase Akt/protein kinase B (Akt). To investigate the contribution of Akt during hepatic regeneration, we performed partial hepatectomy in mice lacking Akt1, Akt2, or both isoforms. We found that absence of Akt1 or Akt2 does not influence liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy. However, hepatic‐specific Akt1 and Akt2 null mice show impaired liver regeneration and increased mortality. The major abnormal cellular events observed in total Akt‐deficient livers were a marked reduction in cell proliferation, cell hypertrophy, glycogenesis, and lipid droplet formation. Most importantly, liver‐specific deletion of FoxO1, a transcription factor regulated by Akt, rescued the hepatic regenerative capability in Akt1‐deficient and Akt2‐deficient mice and normalized the cellular events associated with liver regeneration. Conclusion: The Akt‐FoxO1 signaling pathway plays an essential role during liver regeneration. (Hepatology 2016;63:1660‐1674)