bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formation of Air Stable Graphene p–n–p Junctions Using an Amine‐Containing Polymer Coating
Authors: Sojoudi Hossein , Baltazar Jose , Tolbert Laren , Henderson Clifford , Graham Samuel
Published: November 2014

An ultrathin layer of a polymer containing simple aliphatic amine groups, polyethylenimine ethoxylated (PEIE), is deposited on a back‐gated field effect graphene device to form graphene p–n–p junctions. Characteristic I–V curves indicate the superposition of two separate Dirac points, which confirms an energy separation of neutrality points within the complementary regions. This is a simple approach for making graphene p–n–p junctions without a need for multiple lithography steps or electrostatic gates and, unlike, the destructive techniques such as substitutional doping or covalent functionalization, it induces a minor defect, if any, as there is no discernible D peak in the Raman spectra of the graphene films after creating junctions and degradation in the charge carrier mobilities of the graphene devices. This method can be easily processed from dilute solutions in environmentally‐friendly solvents such as water or methoxyethanol and does not suffer any change upon exposure to air or heating at temperatures below 100 °C.
Surface tension, adsorption, and wetting behaviors of natural surfactants on a PTFE surface
Authors: Paria Santanu , Biswal Nihar R. , Chaudhuri Rajib G.
Published: November 2014

The adsorption kinetics and wetting behaviors of three plant‐based natural surfactants (Reetha, Shikakai, and Acacia) on the polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) surface are reported in this study. Adsorption studies of these surfactants on PTFE surface show the equilibrium adsorption time is approximately 15 min, and Langmuir‐type isotherm fits well for all three surfactants. The contact angle measurements show that the value achieved by Reetha and Acacia solutions are close (∼109°), but that is low in the case of Shikakai (98.13°). Although, comparing the adsorption densities of the surfactants at PTFE–water and air–water interfaces, it has been found that adsorption densities at the PTFE–water interface are low for all three surfactants than that of air–water interface. The alcohol–Shikakai mixed solutions show nonideal behavior of surface tension reduction through a strong interaction between alcohol and Shikakai molecules, which in turn, show lower surface tension and contact angle values than that of ideal. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 61: 655–663, 2015
The role of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for relapsed and refractory Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Kako Shinichi , Izutsu Koji , Kato Koji , Kim Sung‐Won , Mori Takehiko , Fukuda Takahiro , Kobayashi Naoki , Taji Hirofumi , Hashimoto Hisako , Kondo Tadakazu , Sakamaki Hisashi , Morishima Yasuo , Kato Koji , Suzuki Ritsuro , Suzumiya Junji ,   on behalf of the Adult Lymphoma Working Group of the Japanese Society for Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation
Published: November 2014

The optimal treatment strategy with the use of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for relapsed and refractory Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) remains unclear. We performed a retrospective analysis using registry data from the Japanese Society for Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation. Adult patients with HL who underwent a first autologous or a first allogeneic HSCT between 2002 and 2009 were included. Patients who underwent HSCT in first complete remission (CR) were excluded. Autologous and allogeneic HSCT were performed in 298 and 122 patients, respectively. For autologous HSCT, overall survival at 3 years (3yOS) was 70%, and sex, age, disease status, and performance status (PS) at HSCT were prognostic factors. OS was favorable even in patients who underwent autologous HSCT in disease status other than CR. For allogeneic HSCT, 3yOS was 43%, and sex and PS at HSCT were prognostic factors. Disease status at HSCT, previous autologous HSCT, and conditioning intensity did not affect OS. Moreover, graft‐versus‐host disease did not affect progression‐free survival or relapse/progression rate. A first allogeneic HSCT without a previous autologous HSCT was performed in 40 patients. 3yOS was 45%, and was significantly inferior to that in patients who underwent their first autologous HSCT. This result was retained after the correction by the different patient characteristics according to the type of HSCT. In conclusion, autologous HSCT is effective in prolonging survival in patients with relapsed and refractory HL. Allogeneic HSCT might be beneficial even to relapsed HL after autologous HSCT, although establishing the role of allogeneic HSCT remains a challenge. Am. J. Hematol. 90:132–138, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An Efficient Nanoscale Heterogeneous Catalyst for the Capture and Conversion of Carbon Dioxide at Ambient Pressure
Authors: Liu Xiao‐Huan , Ma Jian‐Gong , Niu Zheng , Yang Guang‐Ming , Cheng Peng
Published: November 2014

Silver nanoparticles were successfully supported on the zeolite‐type metal–organic framework MIL‐101 to yield Ag@MIL‐101 by a simple liquid impregnation method. For the first time, the conversion of terminal alkynes into propiolic acids with CO2 was achieved by the use of the Ag@MIL‐101 catalysts. Owing to the excellent catalytic activity, the reaction proceeded at atmospheric pressure and low temperature (50 °C). The Ag@MIL‐101 porous material is of outstanding bifunctional character as it is capable of simultaneously capturing and converting CO2 with low energy consumption and can be recovered easily by centrifugation.
Gold(I)‐Catalyzed Diazo Cross‐Coupling: A Selective and Ligand‐Controlled Denitrogenation/Cyclization Cascade
Authors: Xu Guangyang , Zhu Chenghao , Gu Weijin , Li Jian , Sun Jiangtao
Published: November 2014

An unprecedented gold‐catalyzed ligand‐controlled cross‐coupling of diazo compounds by sequential selective denitrogenation and cyclization affords N‐substituted pyrazoles in a position‐switchable mode. This novel transformation features selective decomposition of one diazo moiety and simultaneous preservation of the other one from two substrates. Notably, the choice of the ancillary ligand to the gold complex plays a pivotal role on the chemo‐ and regioselectivity of the reactions.
CH Bond Activation by f‐Block Complexes
Authors: Arnold Polly L. , McMullon Max W. , Rieb Julia , Kühn Fritz E.
Published: November 2014

Most homogeneous catalysis relies on the design of metal complexes to trap and convert substrates or small molecules to value‐added products. Organometallic lanthanide compounds first gave a tantalizing glimpse of their potential for catalytic CH bond transformations with the selective cleavage of one CH bond in methane by bis(permethylcyclopentadienyl)lanthanide methyl [(η5‐C5Me5)2Ln(CH3)] complexes some 25 years ago. Since then, numerous metal complexes from across the periodic table have been shown to selectively activate hydrocarbon CH bonds, but the challenges of closing catalytic cycles still remain; many f‐block complexes show great potential in this important area of chemistry.
Chiroptical Detection of Nonchromophoric, Achiral Guests by Enantiopure Alleno‐Acetylenic Helicages
Authors: Gidron Ori , Ebert Marc‐Olivier , Trapp Nils , Diederich François
Published: November 2014

Enantiopure alleno‐acetylenic ligands assemble diastereoselectively upon the addition of a zinc(II) salt to form triple‐stranded helicates, which provide a sufficiently large helical cage (“helicage”) for the encapsulation of guests. The inclusion complexation of heteroalicycles is confirmed by ROESY and DOSY NMR spectroscopy and quantified in 1H NMR binding titrations. The ECD spectra of the helicates, which showed strong Cotton effects and exciton coupling, were found to be extremely sensitive to the nature of the guest molecules. Consequently, a series of nonchromophoric, achiral guests of different sizes as well as regioisomers (1,3‐ and 1,4‐dioxane) became distinguishable on the basis of their induced CD (ICD) spectra. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations show the adaptability of the cavity size to individual guest molecules and support the selective ICD output. Particularly high affinity towards 1,4‐dioxane allowed its selective detection at parts‐per‐million (ppm) levels in aqueous solutions.
Advancing the Electrochemistry of the Hydrogen‐Evolution Reaction through Combining Experiment and Theory
Authors: Zheng Yao , Jiao Yan , Jaroniec Mietek , Qiao Shi Zhang
Published: November 2014

The electrocatalytic hydrogen‐evolution reaction (HER), as the main step of water splitting and the cornerstone of exploring the mechanism of other multi‐electron transfer electrochemical processes, is the subject of extensive studies. A large number of high‐performance electrocatalysts have been developed for HER accompanied by recent significant advances in exploring its electrochemical nature. Herein we present a critical appraisal of both theoretical and experimental studies of HER electrocatalysts with special emphasis on the electronic structure, surface (electro)chemistry, and molecular design. It addresses the importance of correlating theoretical calculations and electrochemical measurements toward better understanding of HER electrocatalysis at the atomic level. Fundamental concepts in the computational quantum chemistry and its relation to experimental electrochemistry are also presented along with some featured examples.
An Anti CuO2‐type Metal Hydride Square Net Structure in Ln2M2As2Hx (Ln=La or Sm, M=Ti, V, Cr, or Mn)
Authors: Mizoguchi Hiroshi , Park SangWon , Hiraka Haruhiro , Ikeda Kazutaka , Otomo Toshiya , Hosono Hideo
Published: November 2014

Using a high pressure technique and the strong donating nature of H−, a new series of tetragonal La2Fe2Se2O3‐type layered mixed‐anion arsenides, Ln2M2As2Hx, was synthesized (Ln=La or Sm, M=Ti, V, Cr, or Mn; x≈3). In these compounds, an unusual M2H square net, which has anti CuO2 square net structures accompanying two As3− ions, is sandwiched by (LaH)2 fluorite layers. Notably, strong metal–metal bonding with a distance of 2.80 Å was confirmed in La2Ti2As2H2.3, which has metallic properties. In fact, these compounds are situated near the boundary between salt‐like ionic hydrides and transition‐metal hydrides with metallic characters.
Spatial Structuring of a Supramolecular Hydrogel by using a Visible‐Light Triggered Catalyst
Authors: Maity Chandan , Hendriksen Wouter E. , van Esch Jan H. , Eelkema Rienk
Published: November 2014

Spatial control over the self‐assembly of synthetic molecular fibers through the use of light‐switchable catalysts can lead to the controlled formation of micropatterns made up of hydrogel structures. A photochromic switch, capable of reversibly releasing a proton upon irradiation, can act as a catalyst for in situ chemical bond formation between otherwise soluble building blocks, thereby leading to fiber formation and gelation in water. The use of a photoswitchable catalyst allows control over the distribution as well as the mechanical properties of the hydrogel material. By using homemade photomasks, spatially structured hydrogels were formed starting from bulk solutions of small molecule gelator precursors through light‐triggered local catalyst activation.
A Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled, Twelve‐Week, Dose‐Ranging Study of Decernotinib, an Oral Selective JAK‐3 Inhibitor, as Monotherapy in Patients With Active Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Fleischmann Roy M. , Damjanov Nemanja S. , Kivitz Alan J. , Legedza Anna , Hoock Thomas , Kinnman Nils
Published: November 2014

Objective

To assess the efficacy and safety of oral decernotinib (VX‐509; Vertex Pharmaceuticals) monotherapy in a 12‐week, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, dose‐ranging study of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

Two hundred four adults with active RA who had been unsuccessfully treated with ≥1 disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug were administered placebo tablets or decernotinib twice a day at dosages of 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, or 150 mg. Primary measures of efficacy at week 12 were the response rate according to the American College of Rheumatology 20% improvement criteria (ACR20) and mean 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 39.0%, 61.0%, 65.0%, and 65.9% in the 25‐mg, 50‐mg, 100‐mg, and 150‐mg groups, respectively, and were significantly higher in the 50‐mg group (P = 0.007) and the 100‐mg and 150‐mg groups (P = 0.002) as compared to the response rates in the placebo group (29.3%). The mean change from baseline in DAS28‐CRP was greater in the 50‐mg, 100‐mg, and 150‐mg groups as compared to the placebo group (P < 0.001). Decernotinib treatment resulted in higher ACR50 and ACR70 response rates, more patients with DAS28‐CRP scores <2.6, and improvements in the Health Assessment Questionnaire disability index as compared to placebo. The most common adverse events in any decernotinib group were nausea (6.1%), headache (4.3%), an increase in levels of alanine aminotransferase (4.3%), and hypercholesterolemia (3.7%). In the groups receiving decernotinib, there was an increased risk of infections and increased liver transaminase levels.

Conclusion

Decernotinib was efficacious in improving clinical signs and symptoms of RA at week 12 at dosages of 50–150 mg twice a day. Infections and increases in liver transaminase and lipid levels were noted as potential safety signals.
BAFF Regulates Follicular Helper T Cells and Affects Their Accumulation and Interferon‐γ Production in Autoimmunity
Authors: Coquery Christine M. , Loo William M. , Wade Nekeithia S. , Bederman Annelise G. , Tung Kenneth S. , Lewis Janet E. , Hess Henry , Erickson Loren D.
Published: November 2014

Objective

Follicular helper T (Tfh) cells are critical for the development of protective antibodies via germinal center (GC) B cell responses; however, uncontrolled Tfh cell expansion activates autoreactive B cells to produce antibodies that cause autoimmunity. The mechanisms that control Tfh cell homeostasis remain largely unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the contribution of BAFF to Tfh cell responses in autoimmunity.

Methods

We analyzed the properties of Tfh cells in lupus‐prone mice sufficient or deficient in BCMA. Adoptive transfer studies and mixed bone marrow chimeras were used to test BCMA signaling in T cells. We assessed BAFF stimulation of Tfh cells through in vitro cell cocultures and in vivo depletion studies using flow cytometry.

Results

In Nba2 mice, Tfh cells expressed the BAFF receptors BCMA and B lymphocyte stimulator receptor 3 (BR‐3) and accumulated in the spleen when BCMA was absent. BCMA deficiency in T cells promoted the expansion of Tfh cells, GC formation, autoantibody production, and interferon‐γ (IFNγ) production by Tfh cells through BR‐3. IFNγ‐producing Tfh cells increased BAFF expression in dendritic cells. Blocking BAFF or IFNγ in vivo reduced Tfh cell accumulation and reduced autoimmunity in BCMA‐deficient animals. Moreover, circulating Tfh‐like cells that expressed BR‐3 (but not BCMA) were elevated in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, and this correlated with serum BAFF and IFNγ levels.

Conclusion

In Nba2 mice, BCMA negatively regulates Tfh cell expansion, while BAFF signaling through BR‐3 promotes Tfh cell accumulation. Our findings suggest that the balance between BCMA and BR‐3 signaling in Tfh cells serves as a checkpoint of immune tolerance.
MicroRNA‐602 and MicroRNA‐608 Regulate Sonic Hedgehog Expression via Target Sites in the Coding Region in Human Chondrocytes
Authors: Akhtar Nahid , Makki Mohammad S. , Haqqi Tariq M.
Published: November 2014

Objective

Hedgehog (HH) signaling has recently been associated with cartilage degradation in osteoarthritis (OA). Because interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) has been implicated as a principal instigator of OA, we sought to determine whether IL‐1β induces the expression of sonic HH (SHH) and its regulation by microRNAs (miRNAs) in human chondrocytes.

Methods

Expression of SHH protein in human OA cartilage and in an animal model of OA was determined by immunohistochemical analysis and immunofluorescence analysis, respectively. Gene and protein expression in IL‐1β– or SHH‐stimulated OA chondrocytes was determined by TaqMan assays and Western blotting, respectively. The effect of overexpression of miRNA‐602 (miR‐602) and miR‐608 or their antagomirs on SHH expression was evaluated by transient transfection of human chondrocytes and HEK 293 cells. The role of signaling pathways was evaluated using small molecule inhibitors. Binding of miRNAs with the putative seed sequence in SHH messenger RNA (mRNA) was validated using a luciferase reporter assay.

Results

Expression of SHH, patched 1, Gli‐1, HH‐interacting protein, matrix metalloproteinase 13 (MMP‐13), and Colα1(X) was high in damaged OA cartilage. In damaged cartilage and in IL‐1β–stimulated OA chondrocytes, expression of SHH was inversely correlated with expression of miR‐608. Cotransfection of OA chondrocytes with miR‐608 or miR‐602 mimic inhibited reporter activity, and mutation of the miRNA seed sequences abolished the repression of reporter activity. Overexpression of miR‐602 or miR‐608 inhibited the expression of SHH mRNA and protein, and this was abrogated by antagomirs. Stimulation with recombinant human SHH protein up‐regulated MMP‐13 expression, and inhibition of HH signaling blocked MMP‐13 expression in OA chondrocytes.

Conclusion

MiR‐602 and miR‐608 are important posttranscription regulators of SHH expression in OA chondrocytes, and their suppression by IL‐1β may contribute to the enhanced expression of SHH and MMP‐13 in OA.
The Clinical Spectrum and Therapeutic Management of Hypocomplementemic Urticarial Vasculitis: Data From a French Nationwide Study of Fifty‐Seven Patients
Authors: Jachiet Marie , Flageul Béatrice , Deroux Alban , Le Quellec Alain , Maurier François , Cordoliani Florence , Godmer Pascal , Abasq Claire , Astudillo Leonardo , Belenotti Pauline , Bessis Didier , Bigot Adrien , Doutre Marie‐Sylvie , Ebbo Mikaël , Guichard Isabelle , Hachulla Eric , Héron Emmanuel , Jeudy Géraldine , Jourde‐Chiche Noémie , Jullien Denis , Lavigne Christian , Machet Laurent , Macher Marie‐Alice , Martel Clotilde , Melboucy‐Belkhir Sara , Morice Cécile , Petit Antoine , Simorre Bernard , Zenone Thierry , Bouillet Laurence , Bagot Martine , Frémeaux‐Bacchi Véronique , Guillevin Loïc , Mouthon Luc , Dupin Nicolas , Aractingi Selim , Terrier Benjamin ,   for the French Vasculitis Study Group
Published: November 2014

Objective

Hypocomplementemic urticarial vasculitis (HUV) is an uncommon vasculitis of unknown etiology that is rarely described in the literature. We undertook this study to analyze the clinical spectrum and the therapeutic management of patients with HUV.

Methods

We conducted a French nationwide retrospective study that included 57 patients with chronic urticaria, histologic leukocytoclastic vasculitis, and hypocomplementemia. We assessed clinical and laboratory data and evaluated the patients' cutaneous and immunologic responses to therapy. We evaluated treatment efficacy by measuring the time to treatment failure.

Results

Urticarial lesions were typically more pruritic than painful and were associated with angioedema in 51% of patients, purpura in 35%, and livedo reticularis in 14%. Extracutaneous manifestations included constitutional symptoms (in 56% of patients) as well as musculoskeletal involvement (in 82%), ocular involvement (in 56%), pulmonary involvement (in 19%), gastrointestinal involvement (in 18%), and kidney involvement (in 14%). Patients with HUV typically presented with low C1q levels and normal C1 inhibitor levels, in association with anti‐C1q antibodies in 55% of patients. Hydroxychloroquine or colchicine seemed to be as effective as corticosteroids as first‐line therapy. In patients with relapsing and/or refractory disease, rates of cutaneous and immunologic response to therapy seemed to be higher with conventional immunosuppressive agents, in particular, azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil, or cyclophosphamide, while a rituximab‐based regimen tended to have higher efficacy. Finally, a cutaneous response to therapy was strongly associated with an immunologic response to therapy.

Conclusion

HUV represents an uncommon systemic and relapsing vasculitis with various manifestations, mainly, musculoskeletal and ocular involvement associated with anti‐C1q antibodies, which were found in approximately half of the patients. The best strategy for treating HUV has yet to be defined.
Analysis of the Trajectory of Osteoarthritis Development in a Mouse Model by Serial Near‐Infrared Fluorescence Imaging of Matrix Metalloproteinase Activities
Authors: Leahy Averi A. , Esfahani Shadi A. , Foote Andrea T. , Hui Carrie K. , Rainbow Roshni S. , Nakamura Daisy S. , Tracey Brian H. , Mahmood Umar , Zeng Li
Published: November 2014

Objective

A major hurdle in osteoarthritis (OA) research is the lack of sensitive detection and monitoring methods. It is hypothesized that proteases, such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), are up‐regulated in the early stages of OA development. This study was undertaken to investigate if a near‐infrared (NIR) fluorescent probe activated by MMPs could visualize in vivo OA progression beginning in the early stages of the disease.

Methods

Using an MMP‐activatable NIR fluorescent probe (MMPSense 680), we assessed the up‐regulation of MMP activity in vitro by incubating human chondrocytes with the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β). MMP activity was then evaluated in vivo serially in a mouse model of chronic, injury‐induced OA. To track MMP activity over time, mice were imaged 1–8 weeks after OA‐inducing surgery. Imaging results were correlated with histologic findings.

Results

In vitro studies confirmed that NIR fluorescence imaging identified enhanced MMP activity in IL‐1β–treated human chondrocytes. In vivo imaging showed significantly higher fluorescence intensity in OA knees compared to sham‐operated (control) knees of the same mice. Additionally, the total emitted fluorescence intensity steadily increased over the entire course of OA progression that was examined. NIR fluorescence imaging results correlated with histologic findings, which showed an increase in articular cartilage structural damage over time.

Conclusion

Imaging of MMP activity in a mouse model of OA provides sensitive and consistent visualization of OA progression, beginning in the early stages of OA. In addition to facilitating the preclinical study of OA modulators, this approach has the potential for future translation to humans.
Distributed Multi‐Robot Evacuation Incorporating Human Behavior
Authors: Zhang Shubo , Guo Yi
Published: November 2014

It is well known that trained leaders have an important influence on saving human lives in emergency evacuation. In this paper, we present a novel distributed multi‐robot system for guiding people in an emergency evacuation mission. A cooperative exit‐seeking algorithm is designed for the robots to guide evacuees by online estimating the gradient and tracing gradient‐descent while maintaining a predefined formation in movement. To better deal with evacuees' behaviors in emergency situations, two human panic behavior models are taken into account in the evacuation strategies. Guidance algorithms of single robot team and multi‐team are introduced in the evacuation system. We evaluate the proposed method through comparing evacuation time with non‐robot‐assisted procedures in the static and dynamic routing simulations. The results show that our method can significantly shorten the evacuation time.
Methods of biological fluids sample preparation – biogenic amines, methylxanthines, water‐soluble vitamins
Authors: Płonka Joanna
Published: November 2014

In recent years demands on the amount of information that can be obtained from the analysis of a single sample have increased. For time and economic reasons it is necessary to examine at the same time larger number of compounds, and compounds from different groups. This can best be seen in such areas as clinical analysis. In many diseases, the best results for patients are obtained when treatment fits the individual characteristics of the patient. Dosage monitoring is important at the beginning of therapy and in the full process of treatment. In the treatment of many diseases biogenic amines (dopamine, serotonin) and methylxanthines (theophylline, theobromine, caffeine) play an important role. They are used as drugs separately or in combination with others to support and strengthen the action of other drugs – for example, the combination of caffeine and paracetamol. Vitamin supplementation may be also an integral part of the treatment process. Specification of complete sample preparation parameters for extraction of the above compounds from biological matrices has been reviewed. Particular attention was given to the preparation stage and extraction methods. This review provides universal guidance on establishing a common procedures across laboratories to facilitate the preparation and analysis of all discussed compounds. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Centrifugal Separation with Emphasis on the Rotational Particle Separator
Authors: van Kemenade Erik , Brouwers Bert , van Benthum Rob
Published: November 2014

A review is given of separation methods based on centrifugation. Attention is focused on separation of mixtures of gases and droplets. More particularly we consider: the method of gas centrifuges or ultra‐centrifuges to separate gases of different molecular weight, and centrifugal separators to separate droplets from gases. Elementary physical principles are used to formulate basic equations. From here on, rules are derived for separation performance, energy consumption and size of the installations. Status of technology of each of the methods is illustrated by presenting actual cases of application.
Oxidative Coupling of Alcohols and Amines over Bimetallic Unsupported Nanoporous Gold: Tailored Activity through Mechanistic Predictability
Authors: Wichmann Andre , Bäumer Marcus , Wittstock Arne
Published: November 2014

An unsupported nanoporous gold catalyst is employed for the direct coupling of primary alcohols and amines to the corresponding amides in the liquid phase. Among others, the reaction of methanol and dimethylamine to the industrially relevant dimethylformamide proceeds smoothly at 40 °C (turnover frequency≈40 h−1). The activation of molecular oxygen is identified as a key parameter. Doping of the unsupported catalyst by an admetal (Ru, Ag) is used to increase the activity of the catalyst considerably for this reaction (turnover frequency≈100 h−1).
Microtubule orientation and spacing within bundles is critical for long‐range kinesin‐1 motility
Authors: Conway Leslie , Gramlich Michael W. , Ali Tabei S. M. , Ross Jennifer L.
Published: November 2014

Cells rely on active transport to quickly organize cellular cargo. How cells regulate transport is not fully understood. One proposed mechanism is that motor activity could be altered through the architecture of the cytoskeleton. This mechanism is supported by the fact that the cytoskeletal network is tightly regulated in cells and filament polarity within networks dictates motor directionality. For instance, axons contain bundles of parallel microtubules and all cargos with the same motor species will move in the same direction. It is not clear how other types of networks, such as antiparallel bundles in dendrites, can regulate motor transport. To understand how the organization of microtubules within bundles can regulate transport, we studied kinesin‐1 motility on three bundle types: random‐polarity bundles that are close‐packed, parallel polarity bundles, and antiparallel polarity bundles that are spaced apart. We find that close‐packed bundles inhibit motor motion, while parallel arrays support unidirectional motion. Spacing the microtubules with microtubule‐associated proteins enhances run lengths. Our results indicate that microtubule bundle architecture dictates the motion of single motors and could have effects on cargo transport. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Knowledge of the harms of tobacco use among patients with bladder cancer
Authors: Bassett Jeffrey C. , Gore John L. , Kwan Lorna , Ritch Chad R. , Barocas Daniel A. , Penson David F. , McCarthy William J. , Saigal Christopher S.
Published: November 2014

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to determine tobacco use knowledge and attribution of cause in patients with newly diagnosed bladder cancer.

METHODS

A stratified, random sample of bladder cancer survivors diagnosed between 2006 and 2009 was obtained from the California Cancer Registry. Respondents were surveyed about tobacco use, risk factors, and sources of information on the causes of bladder cancer. Contingency tables and logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate tobacco use knowledge and beliefs.

RESULTS

Of 1198 eligible participants, 790 (66%) completed the survey. Sixty‐eight percent of the cohort had a history of tobacco use, and 19% were active smokers at diagnosis. Tobacco use was the most cited risk factor for bladder cancer, with active smokers more knowledgeable than former smokers or never smokers (90% vs 64% vs 61%, respectively; P<.001). Urologists were the predominant source of information and were cited most often by active smokers (82%). In multivariate analyses, active smokers had 6.37 times greater odds (95% confidence interval, 3.35‐12.09) than never smokers of endorsing tobacco use as a risk factor for bladder cancer, and smokers who named the urologist as their information source had 2.80 times greater odds (95% confidence interval, 1.77‐4.43) of believing tobacco use caused their cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients' smoking status and primary source of information were associated with knowledge of the harms of tobacco use and, in smokers, acknowledgment that tobacco use increased the risk of their own disease. Urologists play a critical role in ensuring patients' knowledge of the connection between smoking and bladder cancer, particularly for active smokers who may be motivated to quit. Cancer 2014;120:3914–3922. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Characterization of Salmonella Typhimurium DNA gyrase as a target of quinolones
Authors: Kongsoi Siriporn , Yokoyama Kazumasa , Suprasert Apinun , Utrarachkij Fuangfa , Nakajima Chie , Suthienkul Orasa , Suzuki Yasuhiko
Published: November 2014

Quinolones exhibit good antibacterial activity against Salmonella spp. isolates and are often the choice of treatment for life‐threatening salmonellosis due to multi‐drug resistant strains. To assess the properties of quinolones, we performed an in vitro assay to study the antibacterial activities of quinolones against recombinant DNA gyrase. We expressed the S. Typhimurium DNA gyrase A (GyrA) and B (GyrB) subunits in Escherichia coli. GyrA and GyrB were obtained at high purity (>95%) by nickel‐nitrilotriacetic acid agarose resin column chromatography as His‐tagged 97‐kDa and 89‐kDa proteins, respectively. Both subunits were shown to reconstitute an ATP‐dependent DNA supercoiling activity. Drug concentrations that suppressed DNA supercoiling by 50% (IC50s) or generated DNA cleavage by 25% (CC25s) demonstrated that quinolones highly active against S. Typhimurium DNA gyrase share a fluorine atom at C‐6. The relationships between the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs), IC50s and CC25s were assessed by estimating a linear regression between two components. MICs measured against S. Typhimurium NBRC 13245 correlated better with IC50s (R = 0.9988) than CC25s (R = 0.9685). These findings suggest that the DNA supercoiling inhibition assay may be a useful screening test to identify quinolones with promising activity against S. Typhimurium. The quinolone structure‐activity relationship demonstrated here shows that C‐8, the C‐7 ring, the C‐6 fluorine, and N‐1 cyclopropyl substituents are desirable structural features in targeting S. Typhimurium gyrase. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Top‐down effects of a lytic bacteriophage and protozoa on bacteria in aqueous and biofilm phases
Authors: Zhang Ji , Örmälä‐Odegrip Anni‐Maria , Mappes Johanna , Laakso Jouni
Published: November 2014

Lytic bacteriophages and protozoan predators are the major causes of bacterial mortality in natural microbial communities, which also makes them potential candidates for biological control of bacterial pathogens. However, little is known about the relative impact of bacteriophages and protozoa on the dynamics of bacterial biomass in aqueous and biofilm phases. Here, we studied the temporal and spatial dynamics of bacterial biomass in a microcosm experiment where opportunistic pathogenic bacteria Serratia marcescens was exposed to particle‐feeding ciliates, surface‐feeding amoebas, and lytic bacteriophages for 8 weeks, ca. 1300 generations. We found that ciliates were the most efficient enemy type in reducing bacterial biomass in the open water, but least efficient in reducing the biofilm biomass. Biofilm was rather resistant against bacterivores, but amoebae had a significant long‐term negative effect on bacterial biomass both in the open‐water phase and biofilm. Bacteriophages had only a minor long‐term effect on bacterial biomass in open‐water and biofilm phases. However, separate short‐term experiments with the ancestral bacteriophages and bacteria revealed that bacteriophages crash the bacterial biomass dramatically in the open‐water phase within the first 24 h. Thereafter, the bacteria evolve phage‐resistance that largely prevents top‐down effects. The combination of all three enemy types was most effective in reducing biofilm biomass, whereas in the open‐water phase the ciliates dominated the trophic effects. Our results highlight the importance of enemy feeding mode on determining the spatial distribution and abundance of bacterial biomass. Moreover, the enemy type can be crucially important predictor of whether the rapid defense evolution can significantly affect top‐down regulation of bacteria.
Impact of global warming at the range margins: phenotypic plasticity and behavioral thermoregulation will buffer an endemic amphibian
Authors: Ruiz‐Aravena Manuel , Gonzalez‐Mendez Avia , Estay Sergio A. , Gaitán‐Espitia Juan D. , Barria‐Oyarzo Ismael , Bartheld José L. , Bacigalupe Leonardo D.
Published: November 2014

When dispersal is not an option to evade warming temperatures, compensation through behavior, plasticity, or evolutionary adaptation is essential to prevent extinction. In this work, we evaluated whether there is physiological plasticity in the thermal performance curve (TPC) of maximum jumping speed in individuals acclimated to current and projected temperatures and whether there is an opportunity for behavioral thermoregulation in the desert landscape where inhabits the northernmost population of the endemic frogPleurodema thaul. Our results indicate that individuals acclimated to 20°C and 25°C increased the breath of theirTPCs by shifting their upper limits with respect to when they were acclimated at 10°C. In addition, even when dispersal is not possible for this population, the landscape is heterogeneous enough to offer opportunities for behavioral thermoregulation. In particular, under current climatic conditions, behavioral thermoregulation is not compulsory as available operative temperatures are encompassed within the populationTPClimits. However, for severe projected temperatures under climate change, behavioral thermoregulation will be required in the sunny patches. In overall, our results suggest that this population ofPleurodema thaulwill be able to endure the worst projected scenario of climate warming as it has not only the physiological capacities but also the environmental opportunities to regulate its body temperature behaviorally.
Unusual Crystal Packing in a Family of [Fe{2,6‐bis(pyrazol‐3‐yl)pyridine}2]2+ Compounds and the Effect on the Occurrence of Spin Crossover and Its Cooperative Character
Authors: Barrios Leoní A. , Peyrecave‐Lleixà Eugènia , Craig Gavin A. , Roubeau Olivier , Teat Simon J. , Aromí Guillem
Published: November 2014

The crucial relationship between the spin‐crossover (SCO) phenomenon and the crystal lattice can be investigated by tuning the intermolecular interactions of a complex with little change to the electronic environment of the metal. With this aim, the synthesis of the new ligand 2,6‐bis[5‐(naphth‐2‐yl)‐pyrazol‐3‐yl]pyridine (H2L) and four different forms (1–4) of the corresponding [Fe(H2L)2]2+ complex cation are presented. H2L exhibits an increased number of aromatic rings with respect to previous analogues to augment the density of π···π contacts within the system. The four compounds group into three different structural arrangements that coincide with two different SCO behaviour types and a locked high‐spin state. The intermolecular interactions that embody the various crystallographic organisations have been analysed through Hirshfeld plots, and the SCO properties of 1–4 are also discussed in light of the local structural analysis around the FeII centres.
Can a back pain screening tool help classify patients with acute pain into risk levels for chronic pain?
Authors: Mehling W.E. , Avins A.L , Acree M.C , Carey T.S , Hecht F.M.
Published: November 2014

Background

The 9‐item STarT‐Back screening tool was developed in primary care patients with low back pain (LBP) to identify those at greatest risk for chronic pain and requiring targeted treatment. We conducted a secondary data analysis study to examine the performance of comparable questionnaire items in a sample of primary care patients with well‐defined acute LBP.

Methods

In a prospective cohort study, 605 primary care patients with LBP of less than 30 days answered a questionnaire with 6 items identical and 3 items analogous to the 9‐item STarT‐Back. Participants were followed up at 6 months and 2 years. STarT‐Back rules were applied to classify participant's risk of chronic LBP, and the performance of the screening items in predicting outcomes was assessed using likelihood ratios.

Results

The proportion of patients with chronic pain at follow‐up was considerably lower (6 months: 22%; 2 years: 25%) than in the STarT‐Back validation cohort (40%) of patients with pain of any duration. The probability of developing chronic pain given a high‐risk designation by items similar to the STarT‐Back increased the pre‐test probability to 31% and 35%. Likelihood ratios were close to 1.

Conclusions

A risk classification schema using the recommended cut‐off scores with items similar to the STarT‐Back in a primary care population with strictly defined acute LBP had limited ability to identify persons who progressed to chronic pain. The results suggest caution when applying the STarT‐Back in patients with acute LBP and a need to consider a modification of its cut‐offs.
Efficacy and safety of oral ketamine for the relief of intractable chronic pain: A retrospective 5‐year study of 51 patients
Authors: Marchetti F. , Coutaux A. , Bellanger A. , Magneux C. , Bourgeois P. , Mion G.
Published: November 2014

Background

This work summarizes the efficiency, failures and adverse effects of oral administration of ketamine at home for intractable pain.

Methods

This 5‐year retrospective study involved testing ketamine by intravenous in‐hospital administration, then a conversion to an oral route, or oral treatment directly administered at home. The daily intravenous dose was increased by steps of 0.5 mg/kg to attain an effective daily dose of 1.5–3.0 mg/kg. Pain was evaluated on a numeric scale from 0 to 10, and evidence of adverse effects was collected every day. The effective daily dose was delivered orally (three to four intakes). If effective, ketamine was continued for 3 months. Short infusions or direct oral treatment began with a 0.5‐mg/kg dose, then the daily ketamine dose was increased in 15‐ to 20‐mg increments.

Results

Among 55 cases (51 patients, neuropathic pain 60%), the mean effective oral dose was 2 mg/kg. Ketamine was effective in 24 patients (44%, mean pain reduction 67 ± 17%), partially effective in 20% (mean pain reduction 30 ± 11%), with a mean opioid sparing of 63 ± 32%, and failure in 22%. Half of the patients experienced adverse effects, but only eight had to stop treatment. For patients with opioid therapy, failure of ketamine was less frequent (7% vs. 36%; p < 0.02), with fewer adverse effects (33% vs. 68%; p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Pain was reduced or abolished in two‐thirds of patients under ketamine therapy; ketamine was effective for patients taking opioids and resulted in few adverse effects.
BodyWise: Evaluating a Pilot Body Image Group for Patients with Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: Mountford Victoria A. , Brown Amy , Bamford Bryony , Saeidi Saeideh , Morgan John F. , Lacey Hubert
Published: November 2014

Body image disturbance can be enduring and distressing to individuals with eating disorders and effective treatments remain limited. This pilot study evaluated a group‐based treatment—BodyWise—developed for use in full and partial hospitalization with patients with anorexia nervosa at low weight. A partial crossover waitlist design was used. BodyWise (N = 50) versus treatment as usual (N = 40) were compared on standardized measures of body image disturbance. Results demonstrated significant improvement in the group compared to treatment as usual for the primary outcome measure (Eating Disorder Examination—Questionnaire Shape Concern subscale) and other manifestations of body image disturbance including body checking and body image quality of life. BodyWise appeared acceptable to participants, and was easy to deliver within the pragmatics of a busy eating disorder service. There is potential for its wider dissemination as a precursor to more active body image interventions. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Developing Content Knowledge for Teaching Assessments for the Measures of Effective Teaching Study
Authors: Phelps Geoffrey , Weren Barbara , Croft Andrew , Gitomer Drew
Published: November 2014

This report documents the development of assessments of content knowledge for teaching (CKT) as part of the Measures of Effective Teaching (MET) study, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The MET study was designed to develop a set of measures that together serve as an accurate indicator of teaching effectiveness. The study was implemented during the 2009–2010 and 2010–2011 school years with more than 3,000 teachers in 6 predominately urban school districts. A total of 5 assessments of CKT were developed, piloted, and then administered as part of the MET study. The CKT assessments focused on the content knowledge used in recognizing, understanding, and responding to the content problems that teachers encounter as they teach a subject. In English language arts (ELA), 2 assessments were developed: 1 for teachers of Grades 4–6 and 1 for Grades 7–9. In mathematics, 3 assessments were developed: 1 for teachers of Grades 4–5, 1 for Grades 6–8, and 1 algebra I. A total of 2,080 final assessments were administered to 1,718 teachers in the 6 participating MET study districts. Assessment results for 194 teachers were excluded due to evidence that assessments were either completed together by 2 or more participants or that insufficient time was devoted to represent a good faith effort at answering the assessment questions. The final sample included 1,886 assessments. Assessment scores included both selected‐response and constructed‐response (CR) questions. We used information from item level statistics, including percent correct and biserial correlations, to systematically remove poorly performing items in order to improve assessment reliabilities. Item level statistics for each assessment are presented. Descriptive statistics and histograms indicate that participants are well distributed over the range of possible score responses. Assessments had moderate to strong levels of reliability, ranging from 0.69 to 0.83.
Inherited variation at MC1R and ASIP and association with melanoma‐specific survival
Authors: Taylor Nicholas J. , Reiner Anne S. , Begg Colin B. , Cust Anne E. , Busam Klaus J. , Anton‐Culver Hoda , Dwyer Terence , From Lynn , Gallagher Richard P. , Gruber Stephen B. , Rosso Stefano , White Kirsten A. , Zanetti Roberto , Orlow Irene , Thomas Nancy E. , Rebbeck Timothy R. , Berwick Marianne , Kanetsky Peter A. ,   on behalf of the GEM Study Group
Published: November 2014

Melanocortin‐1 receptor (MC1R) is a marker of melanoma risk in populations of European ancestry. However, MC1R effects on survival are much less studied. We investigated associations between variation at MC1R and survival in an international, population‐based series of single primary melanoma patients enrolled into the Genes, Environment, and Melanoma study. MC1R genotype data was available for 2,200 participants with a first incident primary melanoma diagnosis. We estimated the association of MC1R genotypes with melanoma‐specific survival (i.e., death caused by melanoma) and overall survival using COX proportional hazards modeling, adjusting for established prognostic factors for melanoma. We also conducted stratified analyses by Breslow thickness, tumor site, phenotypic index, and age. In addition, we evaluated haplotypes involving polymorphisms near the Agouti signaling protein gene (ASIP) locus for their impacts on survival. Melanoma‐specific survival was inversely associated with carriage of MC1R variants in the absence of consensus alleles compared to carriage of at least one consensus allele (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.60; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.40, 0.90). MC1R results for overall survival were consistent with no association. We did not observe any statistical evidence of heterogeneity of effect estimates in stratified analyses. We observed increased hazard of melanoma‐specific death among carriers of the risk haplotype TG near the ASIP locus (HR = 1.37; 95% CI: 0.91, 2.04) when compared to carriers of the most common GG haplotype. Similar results were noted for overall survival. Upon examining the ASIP TG/TG diplotype, we observed considerably increased hazard of melanoma‐specific death (HR = 5.11; 95% CI: 1.88, 13.88) compared to carriers of the most common GG/GG diplotype. Our data suggest improved melanoma‐specific survival among carriers of two inherited MC1R variants.
C/EBPβ promotes angiogenesis through secretion of IL‐6, which is inhibited by genistein, in EGFRvIII‐positive glioblastoma
Authors: Liu Xujie , Liu Kaiyu , Qin Jiazhen , Hao Limin , Li Xiaoxia , Liu Yinan , Zhang Xiaoyan , Liu Xiuxiu , Li Peng , Han Shuo , Mao Zebin , Shen Li
Published: November 2014

To study the mechanisms underlying the IL‐6‐promoted angiogenic microenvironment in EGFRvIII‐positive glioblastoma, VEGF expression in EGFRvIII‐positive/negative tumors was determined by optical molecular imaging. Next, the HUVEC tube formation assay, Western blot, qPCR, RNA silencing, chromatin immunoprecipitation, luciferase reporter and ELISA assays were performed to examine the role of IL‐6 and C/EBPβ in the formation of the angiogenic microenvironment in EGFRvIII‐positive tumors. Finally, in vitro and in vivo genistein treatment experiments were conducted to challenge the interaction between the IL‐6 promoter and C/EBPβ. Optical imaging revealed greater VEGF expression in EGFRvIII‐positive tumor‐bearing mice, suggesting an angiogenic microenvironment. In vitro experiments demonstrated that C/EBPβ‐mediated regulation of IL‐6 was indispensable for maintenance of this angiogenic microenvironment. In contrast, genistein‐mediated upregulation of CHOP impeded C/EBPβ interaction with the IL‐6 promoter, thus disturbing the angiogenic microenvironment. This more malignant microenvironment in EGFRvIII glioblastoma is generated, at least in part, by greater VEGF, IL‐6 and C/EBPβ expression. Interaction of C/EBPβ with the IL‐6 promoter maintains this angiogenic microenvironment, while disturbance of this dynamically balanced interaction inhibits EGFRvIII tumor proliferation by reducing both VEGF and IL‐6 expression.