bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constrained‐Geometry Bisphosphazides Derived from 1,8‐Diazidonaphthalene: Synthesis, Spectroscopic Characteristics, Structural Features, and Theoretical Investigations
Authors: Kögel Julius F. , Abacılar Nuri C. , Weber Felicia , Oelkers Benjamin , Harms Klaus , Kovačević Borislav , Sundermeyer Jörg
Published: March 2014

Investigations on the Staudinger reaction between 1,8‐diazidonaphthalene and phosphorous(III) building blocks, a key step in the synthesis of superbasic bisphosphazene proton sponges, yielded a set of bisphosphazides with a constrained geometry 1,8‐disubstituted naphthalene backbone. This compound class has attracted our interest not only due to their surprisingly high stability, but in particular because of their theoretically predicted basicity in the range of their bisphosphazene analogues that can be referred to the constrained geometry interaction of two highly basic nitrogen atoms. Eleven new bisphosphazides bearing simple P‐amino groups as well as P‐guanidino substituents, azaphosphatrane moieties, P2 building blocks, or chiral P‐amino substituents derived from L‐proline are presented. They were studied concerning their spectroscopic properties and partly also their chromophoric and structural features. In the case of the pyrrolidino‐substituted TPPN(2N2) (TPPN=1,8‐bis(trispyrrolidinophosphazenyl)naphthalene), the stepwise nitrogen elimination is investigated theoretically and experimentally, which led to the isolation and structural characterization of TPPN(1N2) bearing a phosphazide and a phosphazene functionality in one molecule. Attempts to protonate the obtained bisphosphazides and to prove the computationally predicted pKBH+ values through NMR titration reactions resulted in their decay, which again was rationalized by theoretical calculations. Altogether we present the so far most extensive spectroscopic, structural and theoretical investigation of constrained geometry bisphosphazides and their Brønsted and Lewis basic properties.
Ion‐Responsive Hemin–G‐Quadruplexes for Switchable DNAzyme and Enzyme Functions
Authors: Aleman‐Garcia Miguel Angel , Orbach Ron , Willner Itamar
Published: March 2014

Programmed nucleic acid sequences undergo K+ ion‐induced self‐assembly into G‐quadruplexes and separation of the supramolecular structures by the elimination of K+ ions by crown ether or cryptand ion‐receptors. This process allows the switchable formation and dissociation of the respective G‐quadruplexes. The different G‐quadruplex structures bind hemin, and the resulting hemin–G‐quadruplex structures reveal horseradish peroxidase DNAzyme catalytic activities. The following K+ ion/receptor switchable systems are described: 1) The K+‐induced self‐assembly of the Mg2+‐dependent DNAzyme subunits into a catalytic nanostructure using the assembly of G‐quadruplexes as bridging unit. 2) The K+‐induced stabilization of the anti‐thrombin G‐quadruplex nanostructure that inhibits the hydrolytic functions of thrombin. 3) The K+‐induced opening of DNA tweezers through the stabilization of G‐quadruplexes on the “tweezers’ arms" and the release of a strand bridging the tweezers into a closed structure. In all of the systems reversible, switchable, functions are demonstrated. For all systems two different signals are used to follow the switchable functions (fluorescence and the catalytic functions of the derived hemin–G‐quadruplex DNAzyme).
Encapsulated Cobalt–Porphyrin as a Catalyst for Size‐Selective Radical‐type Cyclopropanation Reactions
Authors: Otte Matthias , Kuijpers Petrus F. , Troeppner Oliver , Ivanović‐Burmazović Ivana , Reek Joost N. H. , de Bruin Bas
Published: March 2014

A cobalt–porphyrin catalyst encapsulated in a cubic M8L6 cage allows cyclopropanation reactions in aqueous media. The caged‐catalyst shows enhanced activities in acetone/water as compared to pure acetone. Interestingly, the M8L6 encapsulated catalyst reveals size‐selectivity. Smaller substrates more easily penetrate through the pores of the “molecular ship‐in‐a‐bottle catalysts” and are hence converted faster than bigger substrates. In addition, N‐tosylhydrazone sodium salts are easy to handle reagents for cyclopropanation reactions under these conditions.
Synthesis and Characterization of a Triphenyl‐Substituted Radical and an Unprecedented Formation of a Carbene‐Functionalized Quinodimethane
Authors: Mondal Kartik Chandra , Samuel Prinson P. , Roesky Herbert W. , Niepötter Benedikt , Herbst‐Irmer Regine , Stalke Dietmar , Ehret Fabian , Kaim Wolfgang , Maity Bholanath , Koley Debasis
Published: March 2014

The trichlorosilylcarbene monoradical (CycAAC)SiCl3 (1) was directly converted to (CycAAC)SiPh3 (2) by substitution of the three chlorine atoms with phenyl groups without affecting the radical center adjacent to the silicon atom. In addition to the structure determination, compound 2 was studied by EPR spectroscopy and DFT calculations. The three hyperfine lines in the EPR spectrum of 2 are due to the coupling with 14N nucleus. Functionalized 1,4‐quinodimethane Me2cAACC6H4CPh2 (7) was isolated, whereas carbon analogue of radical 2 was targeted. Cyclic voltammogram of 7 indicated that a stable radical‐anion 7, as well as a radical‐cation 7, can be prepared. Theoretical calculations showed that one‐electron ionization energy and electron affinity of 7 are 5.1 and 0.7 eV mol−1, respectively.
Safety and pharmacokinetics of olokizumab, an anti‐IL‐6 monoclonal antibody, administered to healthy male volunteers: A randomized phase I study
Authors: Kretsos Kosmas , Golor Georg , Jullion Astrid , Hickling Matthew , McCabe Suzanne , Shaw Stevan , Jose Joby , Oliver Ruth
Published: March 2014

Interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) is implicated in the pathophysiology of several inflammatory conditions. Olokizumab, a humanized anti‐IL‐6 monoclonal antibody, selectively blocks the final assembly of the IL‐6 signaling complex. A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, phase I dose‐escalation study assessed the safety and tolerability of escalating single doses of olokizumab administered intravenously (iv) or subcutaneously (sc) to 67 healthy male volunteers. The pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and immunogenicity of olokizumab were also assessed. Olokizumab was tolerated at doses up to 3.0 mg/kg sc and 10.0 mg/kg iv; the maximum tolerated dose was not reached. No serious adverse events or withdrawals as a result of treatment‐emergent adverse events were reported. Pharmacokinetic analysis showed that both maximum serum concentration and area under the concentration–time curve increased linearly with increasing dose. Mean terminal half‐life was 31.5 days (standard deviation 12.4 days). The bioavailability of the sc doses ranged from 84.2% to 92.5%. Rapid decreases in C‐reactive protein concentrations were observed, with no dose dependency.
Fine‐needle aspiration cytology of Merkel cell carcinoma—A review of 69 cases
Authors: Shield Paul W. , Crous Heinrich
Published: March 2014

This study reviewed the clinical presentation, cytologic findings, and the immunophenotype of 69 Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) cases sampled by fine‐needle aspiration (FNA).

 Demographic and clinical data, the cytology findings, and results of ancillary testing were reviewed.

 Median patient age was 78 years (37−104) with a 1:1.8 female to male ratio. The most common FNA sites sampled included lymph nodes in the neck, the axillary region, the inguinal region and the parotid gland. Most patients had a history of MCC (68%) and/or non‐MCC malignancy (70%).

 The common cytologic pattern was a cellular smear with malignant cells arranged in a dispersed pattern with variable numbers of disorganized groups of cells. Cytoplasm was scant or absent and nuclei showed mild to moderate anisokaryosis, stippled chromatin, inconspicuous nucleoli, and nuclear molding. Numerous apoptotic bodies were often present.

 Cell block samples (28 cases) were usually positive for cytokeratins in a perinuclear dot pattern, including 88% of cases with CK20 positivity. CD56 was the most sensitive (95%) neuroendocrine marker on cell blocks and was also positive with flow cytometry in nine cases tested.

 MCC is most commonly seen in FNA specimens from the head and neck of elderly patients, often with a history of previous skin lesions. Occasional cases present in younger patients and some may be mistaken for other round blue cell tumors, such as lymphoma. CD 56 may be a useful marker in cell block preparations and in flow cytometric analysis of MCC. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2014;42:924–928. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Relationship between gestational fasting plasma glucose and neonatal birth weight, prenatal blood pressure and dystocia in pregnant Chinese women
Authors: Zhu Min , Cai Jing , Liu Shujuan , Huang Mingwei , Chen Yao , Lai Xiaolan , Chen Yuyu , Zhao Zhongwen , Wu Fangzhen , Wu Dongmei , Miu Haiyan , Lai Shenghan , Chen Gang
Published: March 2014

Background

Little is known about the optimal cut‐off point of fasting plasma glucose for the diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus for pregnant Chinese women. This study investigates the relationship between gestational fasting plasma glucose and several variables: neonatal birth weight, prenatal blood pressure and dystocia rate of pregnant women. In this study, we hoped to provide a useful tool to screen gestational diabetes mellitus in pregnant Chinese women.

Methods

For 1058 pregnant women enrolled in our hospital at pregnancy weeks 22–30, fasting plasma glucose, neonatal birth weight and prenatal blood pressure, as well as dystocia conditions, were examined. We analysed the correlations between the following: gestational fasting plasma glucose and neonatal birth weight; prenatal blood pressure and gestational fasting plasma glucose as well as dystocia rate and gestational fasting plasma glucose group.

Results

A modest correlation was observed between gestational fasting plasma glucose and neonatal birth weight (r = 0.093, p = 0.003). The macrosomia rate was smallest when the gestational fasting plasma glucose was in the range 3.51–5.5 mmol/L. Prenatal blood pressure increased linearly with increasing gestational fasting plasma glucose (p = 0.000). There was a significant difference between the dystocia rates in different fasting plasma glucose groups (chi‐squared = 13.015, p = 0.043). The results showed that the dystocia rate significantly increased when gestational fasting plasma glucose was >4.9 mmol/L; p = 0.03, OR = 2.156 (95% CI, 1.077–4.318).

Conclusion

We suggest that the optimal range of gestational fasting plasma glucose for pregnant Chinese women is in the range 3.5–4.9 mmol/L. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Are there conserved roles for the extracellular matrix, cilia, and junctional complexes in left‐right patterning?
Authors: Collins Michelle M. , Ryan Aimee K.
Published: March 2014

Many different types of molecules have essential roles in patterning the left‐right axis and directing asymmetric morphogenesis. In particular, the relationship between signaling molecules and transcription factors has been explored extensively. Another group of proteins implicated in left‐right patterning are components of the extracellular matrix, apical junctions, and cilia. These structural molecules have the potential to participate in the conversion of morphogenetic cues from the extracellular environment into morphogenetic patterning via their interactions with the actin cytoskeleton. Although it has been relatively easy to temporally position these proteins within the hierarchy of the left‐right patterning pathway, it has been more difficult to define how they mechanistically fit into these pathways. Consequently, our understanding of how these factors impart patterning information to influence the establishment of the left‐right axis remains limited. In this review, we will discuss those structural molecules that have been implicated in early phases of left‐right axis development. genesis 52:488–502, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Morphological and life‐history responses of anurans to predation by an invasive crayfish: an integrative approach
Authors: Nunes Ana L. , Orizaola Germán , Laurila Anssi , Rebelo Rui
Published: March 2014

Predator‐induced phenotypic plasticity has been widely documented in response to native predators, but studies examining the extent to which prey can respond to exotic invasive predators are scarce. As native prey often do not share a long evolutionary history with invasive predators, they may lack defenses against them. This can lead to population declines and even extinctions, making exotic predators a serious threat to biodiversity. Here, in a community‐wide study, we examined the morphological and life‐history responses of anuran larvae reared with the invasive red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii, feeding on conspecific tadpoles. We reared tadpoles of nine species until metamorphosis and examined responses in terms of larval morphology, growth, and development, as well as their degree of phenotypic integration. These responses were compared with the ones developed in the presence of a native predator, the larval dragonfly Aeshna sp., also feeding on tadpoles. Eight of the nine species altered their morphology or life history when reared with the fed dragonfly, but only four when reared with the fed crayfish, suggesting among‐species variation in the ability to respond to a novel predator. While morphological defenses were generally similar across species (deeper tails) and almost exclusively elicited in the presence of the fed dragonfly, life‐history responses were very variable and commonly elicited in the presence of the invasive crayfish. Phenotypes induced in the presence of dragonfly were more integrated than in crayfish presence. The lack of response to the presence of the fed crayfish in five of the study species suggests higher risk of local extinction and ultimately reduced diversity of the invaded amphibian communities. Understanding how native prey species vary in their responses to invasive predators is important in predicting the impacts caused by newly established predator–prey interactions following biological invasions.
Dimethylmalonato Zinc Complexes as Molecular Precursors for Electronic Grade Zinc Oxide: Towards a Systematic Ligand Design by Understanding Molecular Decomposition Mechanisms
Authors: Hoffmann Rudolf C. , Schneider Jörg J.
Published: March 2014

Zinc complexes with dimethyl 2‐hydroxyimino‐ and 2‐nitromalonate (dmm‐NOH and Hdmm‐NO2, respectively) were synthesized and examined as potential precursors for nanocrystalline zinc oxide. The functionalised 1,3‐diketones are sufficiently acidic to allow direct synthesis from hydrozincite or zinc 2‐propoxide as well as their full spectroscopic and analytical characterization. Their nominal elemental compositions of [Zn4O(dmm‐NO)6] and [Zn3(OH)4(dmm‐NO2)2] suggest the presence of multinuclear cage structures with oxo‐ or hydroxo‐bridging ligands. This assumption is in accordance with the obtained spectroscopic data. Thermogravimetry coupled with mass spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy (TG/MS and TG‐IR) indicate the formation of dimethylcarbonate and methanol during the decomposition. Both precursors exhibit good film formation properties and the obtained zinc oxide was further characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM and PL. Finally, the semiconducting electronic behaviour of the obtained nanocrystalline ZnO was studied in a field‐effect transistor (FET) device.
Nitrile‐Supported Coordination Polymers of Cerium(III) Bromide
Authors: Vasudevan Kalyan V. , Boncher William L. , Smith Nickolaus A. , Blair Michael W. , Scott Brian L. , Bennett Bryan L. , Hehlen Markus P. , Muenchausen Ross E. , Gordon John C.
Published: March 2014

A series of nitrile‐supported coordination polymers of cerium bromide (CeBr3) are reported, including adducts of trimethylacetonitrile, benzonitrile, and glutaronitrile. The identities of the compounds are established on the basis of single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction data, and the compounds are further characterized by elemental analysis and photoluminescence. The photoluminescence spectra of the coordination polymers display considerably redshifted emission compared to the characteristic emission of CeBr3 single crystals.
Synthesis and Characterization of Tungstophosphoric Acid/Pentaethylenehexamine/ZrSBA‐15 and Its Use in the Selective Oxidation of Benzyl Alcohol under Solvent‐Free Conditions
Authors: Meng Ling‐Yan , Zhai Shang‐Ru , Li Shi , Zhai Bin , An Qing‐Da , Song Xiao‐Wei
Published: March 2014

A layer‐by‐layer deposition strategy was employed for the immobilization of tungstophosphoric acid (HPW) onto a pentaethylenehexamine (PEHA)‐grafted ZrSBA‐15 framework to a give HPW/PEHA/ZrSBA‐15 composite. The resulting composite was characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, FTIR, thermogravimetric analysis, N2 sorption, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and these methods showed that the composite was stable in polar environments. These properties were attributed to the method of preparation, which ensured that a dense and stable array of HPW was encapsulated within the pores of PEHA‐modified ZrSBA‐15. In the H2O2‐mediated oxidation of benzyl alcohol, the 25 % HPW/PEHA/ZrSBA‐15 catalyst exhibited high selectivity (>99 %) for benzaldehyde. Moreover, the oxidation reaction was performed under solvent‐free conditions, and the catalyst was recycled several times with negligible loss in selectivity and conversion. This HPW‐based catalyst was also efficient at selectively oxidizing other benzylic and alkyl alcohols to the corresponding aldehydes.
Electrical tweezer for highly parallelized electrorotation measurements over a wide frequency bandwidth
Authors: Rohani Ali , Varhue Walter , Su Yi‐Hsuan , Swami Nathan S.
Published: March 2014

Electrorotation (ROT) is a powerful tool for characterizing the dielectric properties of cells and bioparticles. However, its application has been somewhat limited by the need to mitigate disruptions to particle rotation by translation under positive DEP and by frictional interactions with the substrate. While these disruptions may be overcome by implementing particle positioning schemes or field cages, these methods restrict the frequency bandwidth to the negative DEP range and permit only single particle measurements within a limited spatial extent of the device geometry away from field nonuniformities. Herein, we present an electrical tweezer methodology based on a sequence of electrical signals, composed of negative DEP using 180‐degree phase‐shifted fields for trapping and levitation of the particles, followed by 90‐degree phase‐shifted fields over a wide frequency bandwidth for highly parallelized electrorotation measurements. Through field simulations of the rotating electrical field under this wave‐sequence, we illustrate the enhanced spatial extent for electrorotation measurements, with no limitations to frequency bandwidth. We apply this methodology to characterize subtle modifications in morphology and electrophysiology of Cryptosporidium parvum with varying degrees of heat treatment, in terms of shifts in the electrorotation spectra over the 0.05–40 MHz region. Given the single particle sensitivity and the ability for highly parallelized electrorotation measurements, we envision its application toward characterizing heterogeneous subpopulations of microbial and stem cells.
Women are more susceptible than men to oxidative stress and chromosome damage caused by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons exposure
Authors: Guo Huan , Huang Kun , Zhang Xiao , Zhang Wangzhen , Guan Lei , Kuang Dan , Deng Qifei , Deng Huaxin , Zhang Xiaomin , He Meian , Christiani David , Wu Tangchun
Published: March 2014

Exposure to environmental polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) has been associated with increased risk of cancer, but evidence for gender differences in this association is limited. The aim of this study was to examine the gender differences in PAHs caused early genotoxic effects such as oxidative stress and chromosome damage, which are potential carcinogenic etiology of PAHs. A total of 478 nonsmoking workers (272 men and 206 women) from a coke oven plant were recruited. We determined 16 environmental PAHs in their workplaces, and measured concentrations of 12 urinary PAH metabolites (OH‐PAHs), plasma benzo[a]pyrene‐r‐7,t‐8,t‐9,c‐10‐tetrahydotetrol‐albumin (BPDE‐Alb) adducts, urinary 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG) and 8‐iso‐prostaglandin‐F2α (8‐iso‐PGF2α), and micronucleus frequencies in lymphocytes in all subjects. It showed that, women working at the office, adjacent to the coke oven, and on the bottom or side of the coke oven displayed significantly higher levels of urinary 8‐OHdG and 8‐iso‐PGF2α, and lymphocytic micronucleus frequencies compared with men working at above areas, respectively (all P < 0.05). These gender differences remain significant after adjusted for potential confounders and urinary ΣOH‐PAHs or plasma BPDE‐Alb adducts. A significant interaction existed between gender and BPDE‐Alb adducts on increasing micronucleus frequencies (Pinteraction < 0.001). We further stratified all workers by the tertiles of urinary ΣOH‐PAHs or plasma BPDE‐Alb adducts, and the above gender differences were more evident in the median‐ and high‐exposure groups (all P < 0.05). In conclusion, women were more susceptible than men to oxidative stress and chromosome damage induced by PAHs, which may add potential evidence underlying gender differences in PAH exposure‐related lung cacinogenesis. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 55:472–481, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Reappraisal of sediment dynamics in the Lower Mekong River, Cambodia
Authors: Lu XiXi , Kummu Matti , Oeurng Chantha
Published: March 2014

The Mekong Basin in southeast Asia is facing rapid development, impacting its hydrology and sediment dynamics. Although the understanding of the sediment transport rates in the Mekong is gradually growing, the sediment dynamics in the lower Mekong floodplains (downstream from Kratie) are poorly understood. The aim of this study is to conduct an analysis to increase the understanding of the sediment dynamics at the Chaktomuk confluence of the Mekong River, and the Tonle Sap River in the Lower Mekong River in Cambodia. This study is based on the data from a detailed field survey over the three hydrological years (May 2008–April 2011) at the two sites (the Mekong mainstream and the Tonle Sap River) at the Chaktomuk confluence. We further compared the sediment fluxes at Chaktomuk to an upstream station (i.e. Mukdahan) with longer time series. Inflow sediment load towards the lake was lower than that of the outflow, with a ratio on average of 84%. Although annually only a small amount of sediment load from the Tonle Sap contributes to the delta (less than 15%), its share is substantial during the February–April period. The annual sediment load transport from the confluence to the delta in 2009 and 2010 accounted for 54 and 50 Mt, respectively. This was on average only 55% of the sediment fluxes measured at Mukdahan, a more upstream station. Furthermore when compared to sediment loads further downstream at the Cambodia–Vietnam border, we found that the suspended sediment flux continued to decline towards the South China Sea. Our findings thus indicate that the sediment load to the South China Sea is much lower than the previous estimate 150–160 Mt/yr. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Suppression of Autophagy During Liver Regeneration Impairs Energy Charge and Hepatocyte Senescence in Mice
Authors: Toshima Takeo , Shirabe Ken , Fukuhara Takasuke , Ikegami Toru , Yoshizumi Tomoharu , Soejima Yuji , Ikeda Tetsuo , Okano Shinji , Maehara Yoshihiko
Published: March 2014

Autophagy is a homeostatic mechanism that regulates protein and organelle turnover and uses the amino acids from degraded proteins to produce adenosine 5′-triphosphate (ATP). We investigated the activity of autophagy-associated pathways in liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy (PHx) in liver-specific autophagy-related gene 5 (Atg5) knockout (KO) mice. Liver regeneration was severely impaired by 70% PHx, with a reduction in postoperative mitosis, but a compensating increase in hepatocyte size. PHx induced intracellular adenosine triphosphate and β-oxidation reduction as well as injured cellular mitochondria. Furthermore, PHx in Atg5 KO mice enhanced hepatic accumulation of p62 and ubiquitinated proteins. These results indicated that reorganization of intracellular proteins and organelles during autophagy was impaired in the regenerating liver of these mice. Up-regulation of p21 was associated with hepatocyte senescence, senescence-associated β-galactosidase expression, irreversible growth arrest, and secretion of senescence-associated molecules, including interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8.

Conclusion :

These findings indicate that autophagy plays a critical role in liver regeneration and in the preservation of cellular quality, preventing hepatocytes from becoming fully senescent and hypertrophic. (Hepatology 2014;60:290–300)
Elevation‐dependent responses of streamflow to climate warming
Authors: Tennant Christopher J. , Crosby Benjamin T. , Godsey Sarah E.
Published: March 2014

Warming will affect snowline elevation, potentially altering the timing and magnitude of streamflow from mountain landscapes. Presently, the assessment of potential elevation‐dependent responses is difficult because many gauged watersheds integrate drainage areas that are both snow and rain dominated. To predict the impact of snowline rise on streamflow, we mapped the current snowline (1980 m) for the Salmon River watershed (Idaho, USA) and projected its elevation after 3 °C warming (2440 m). This increase results in a 40% reduction in snow‐covered area during winter months. We expand this analysis by collecting streamflow records from a new, elevation‐stratified gauging network of watersheds contained within high (2250–3800 m), mid (1500–2250 m) and low (300–1500 m) elevations that isolate snow, mixed and rain‐dominated precipitation regimes. Results indicate that lags between percentiles of precipitation and streamflow are much shorter in low elevations than in mid‐ and high‐elevation watersheds. Low elevation annual percentiles (Q25 and Q75) of streamflow occur 30–50 days earlier than in higher elevation watersheds. Extreme events in low elevations are dominated by low‐ and no‐flow events whereas mid‐ and high‐elevation extreme events are primarily large magnitude floods. Only mid‐ and high‐elevation watersheds are strongly cross correlated with catchment‐wide flow of the Salmon River, suggesting that changes in contributions from low‐elevation catchments may be poorly represented using mainstem gauges. As snowline rises, mid‐elevation watersheds will likely exhibit behaviours currently observed only at lower elevations. Streamflow monitoring networks designed for operational decision making or change detection may require modification to capture elevation‐dependent responses of streamflow to warming. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Costly Communication and Delegation in Multiple‐Division Firms
Authors: Yost Jeffrey A.
Published: March 2014

This paper examines the costs and benefits of delegated decision making in a multi‐division firm. The delegation versus centralization decision hinges on the trade‐off between: (1) the costs of communication between divisions of the firm and the firm's headquarters under centralized decision making; and (2) gains from closer controls under centralized control. The performance of the two organizational designs are examined in a stylized principal‐agent model with the firm's central management represented by the principal and two divisions of the firm by two self‐interested agents. In a centralized scheme the agents report private information to the center who then sets production quotas and co‐ordinates the agents' production. Under delegation, the production and co‐ordination decisions are left to the agents. Central management simply rewards the agents based on observed performance. The advantages of centralization over delegation are shown to diminish when the correlation between the agents' private information approaches the polar extremes of perfect correlation and statistical independence.
Effect of training on corticomotor excitability in clinical neck pain
Authors: Rittig‐Rasmussen B. , Kasch H. , Fuglsang‐Frederiksen A. , Svensson P. , Jensen T.S.
Published: March 2014

Background

Corticomotor excitability has been shown to correlate with motor learning and functional recovery. The aim of the present study was to monitor changes in excitability of the corticomotor pathways induced by neck training and to compare the effects in patients with neck or knee pain and pain‐free participants.

Methods

Corticomotor excitability was assessed using transcranial magnetic stimulation and electromyography at baseline, after 30 min and 1 h, and at a 1‐week follow‐up visit. The primary outcome measures were changes in amplitudes and latencies of motor evoked potentials (MEPs) at 1‐week follow‐up.

Results

MEP responses induced by neck training yielded significantly different outcomes in the three groups. In the group with neck pain and training, MEP amplitudes were significantly reduced between baseline and 30 min (p ≤ 0.05), but with no significant difference between baseline, 1 h (p = 0.178) and 1 week (p = 0.067). In the group with knee pain and training, MEP amplitudes significantly increased between baseline and 30 min (p ≤ 0.01) and 1 h (p < 0.001), but not after 1 week (p = 0.524) compared with baseline. In the pain‐free group, there were no changes over time.

Conclusion

Neck training reduced neuroplastic responsiveness of corticomotor pathways in neck pain patients in contrast to knee pain patients and pain‐free participants. Increased attention to adaptive and maladaptive neuroplastic responses induced by training may prove valuable in the process of optimizing clinical outcomes.
Design, Synthesis, and Biological Activities of Novel 2‐Alkylpyrrole Derivatives
Authors: Li Yongqiang , Wang Ziwen , Zhang Pengxiang , Liu Yuxiu , Xiong Lixia , Wang Qingmin
Published: March 2014

To investigate the alkyl analog of insecticide chlorfenapyr, two series of 2‐alkyl‐4‐bromo‐5‐(trifluoromethyl)pyrrole‐3‐carbonitriles were synthesized with a cycloaddition as the key step. The target products were characterized by 1H‐NMR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, or HRMS. The insecticidal, herbicidal, and antifungal activities of the target compounds were evaluated and found that these compounds did not show much insecticidal activity, but compounds 4, 10, and 11 had very good fungicidal activities against Alternaria solani and Fusarium oxysporum. Moreover, compound 4 had an outstanding inhibition effect against pigweed.
Improving the correlation between incoming solar radiation and sunshine hour using DTR
Authors: Lee Khil‐Ha
Published: March 2014

This paper reports the development of a relationship between incoming shortwave solar radiation and bright sunshine duration. The daily temperature range (DTR) is melt into the existing Angstrom equation to include the advection of atmospheric constituents. The proposed DTR plus Angstrom equations were tested against field investigation. Measurements of solar radiation and sunshine duration from 1997 to 2006 at 20 meteorological stations were used to calibrate and validate the suggested equation. The model parameters required to specify the nature of the relationship between solar radiation and sunshine duration were determined by automatically minimizing the difference between the modeled and measured solar radiation. At the 20 meteorological stations, the root mean square error (RMSE) is improved by 6% for the original Angstrom equation with DTR, while 2% for the modified Angstrom equation with DTR. The average value of the coefficient of determination is 0.889 (0.908) for the original (modified) Angstrom equation whereas 0.901 (0.911) for the original (modified) Angstrom equation with DTR. It is encouraging that the newly suggested equation with DTR generally provides better performance than the existing Angstrom equation that is constructed with brightness sunshine duration only.
Dendroclimatic reconstruction of May–June maximum temperatures in the central Zagros Mountains, western Iran
Authors: Arsalani Mohsen , Azizi Ghasem , Bräuning Achim
Published: March 2014

Long‐term instrumental records that provide estimates about the natural range of long‐term climate fluctuation are lacking in Iran. Ring‐width chronologies were developed from two oak sites in the central Zagros Mountains, dating back to 1705 A.D. Due to high correlations between the local site chronologies, a mean regional chronology (RC) was calculated. Correlations with regionalized climate data showed significant negative correlations with maximum temperature in December of the previous year and February, May, June and August of the current year. However, May–June maximum temperatures of the current growing season showed the highest negative correlation coefficient with regional tree growth patterns. Based on this relationship, maximum temperature of May–June was reconstructed over the last 170 years (1840–2010). The average length of cold periods was shorter than that of warm periods. Further sampling may allow the analysis of long‐term climatic trends in this region.
Stability, across environments, of grain and alcohol yield, in soft wheat varieties grown for grain distilling or bioethanol production
Authors: Swanston John Stuart , Smith Pauline L , Thomas William TB , Sylvester‐Bradley Roger , Kindred Daniel , Brosnan James M , Bringhurst Thomas A , Agu Reginald C
Published: March 2014

BACKGROUND

Soft‐milling wheat has potential use for both grain whisky distilling and bioethanol production. Varietal comparisons over wide‐ranging environments would permit assessment of both grain and alcohol yield potential and also permit the stability across environments, for these parameters, to be compared.

RESULTS

For 12 varieties, analysis of variance showed highly significant effects of variety, site, season and fertiliser application on grain and alcohol yield. There were also significant interactions between these factors and, consequently, varieties varied in stability across environments as well as in mean values for the parameters assessed. Alcohol production per hectare was affected more strongly by variation in grain yield than alcohol yield, but increasing grain protein content reduced alcohol yield and, therefore, utility for grain distilling.

CONCLUSION

To maximise energy production, the best varieties for bioethanol would combine high and stable grain yield with slower reduction of alcohol yield as grain protein increases. For grain distilling, where the energy balance is less important, high alcohol yield will remain the key factor. Data derived using near infrared spectroscopy can be valuable in assessing stability of quality traits across environments. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Liver transplantation and cirrhotomimetic hepatocellular carcinoma: Classification and outcomes
Authors: Clayton Erica F. , Malik Saloni , Bonnel Alexander , Mu Yifei , Olthoff Kim , Shaked Abraham , Abt Peter L. , Peterman Heather , Reddy Rajender K. , Ottmann Shane , Furth Emma E. , Levine Matthew H.
Published: March 2014

Liver transplantation has become the standard-of-care treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) that falls within certain size and numerical criteria for patients with cirrhosis. Cirrhotomimetic (CMM) HCC is an uncommon growth pattern that infiltrates cirrhotic parenchyma, can become extensive in size, and can evade detection via radiological studies. Liver transplant outcomes for this type of HCC are not well reported but generally are considered to be poor. We wished to better describe this variant of HCC in explanted livers, derive a classification system for this tumor type, and assess the outcomes of liver transplantation for this tumor variant. All patients undergoing transplantation for HCC at a single center in 1996-2009 (358 patients) were retrospectively analyzed, and 26 patients exhibiting a CMM growth pattern were identified. We developed a classification system for this tumor growth pattern variant and determined patient and tumor-specific outcomes. We derived a classification schema for CMM HCC based on the tumor extent and cellular histopathology, with a clear cell pathology being associated with favorable outcomes. We noted 100.0% 3-year recurrence-free survival and 58.3% 5-year recurrence-free survival after transplantation for those patients with tumors confined to 1 lobe that had a clear cell pathology and 16.2% 3- and 5-year recurrence-free survival for those patients who did not meet these criteria. In conclusion, CMM HCC features were noted in 7% of the patients undergoing transplantation for HCC at our center, with favorable outcomes observed for inpatients with clear cell histology and growth involving less than or equal to 50% of the liver. Liver Transpl 20:765–774, 2014. © 2014 AASLD.
Epigenetic analysis of microRNA genes in tumors from surgically resected lung cancer patients and association with survival
Authors: Tan Weiqi , Gu Jian , Huang Maosheng , Wu Xifeng , Hildebrandt Michelle A. T.
Published: March 2014

Aberrant microRNA (miRNA) expression is involved in tumorigenesis of several cancers, including non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Furthermore, expression of some miRNAs has been shown to be under epigenetic regulation. However, less is known regarding the role of miRNA methylation in NSCLC development or clinical outcomes. Therefore, we tested miRNA methylation patterns by quantitative real‐time methylation‐specific PCR for a panel of candidate miRNAs in 19 NSCLC paired tumor and adjacent normal tissues. For assessment of survival, methylation was measured in a total of 97 tumor tissues with complete clinical and follow‐up data. Analysis was also performed for correlation with age at diagnosis, gender, smoking, and stage. Significant differences in methylation patterns were observed for 9 of the 12 miRNAs, all due to hypermethylation in the tumor tissue. Individuals with the highest levels of methylated miR‐127 were at a significantly increased risk of dying with a hazard ratio of 1.93 (95% CI 1.17–3.19; P = 0.010), in univariate analysis and remained significant after adjusting for age, gender, and stage (HR 1.97; 95% CI 1.15–3.40; P = 0.014). This increase in risk due to increased methylation were accompanied by significant, dramatic difference in survival duration of 17 months (P = 0.0089). Six of the 12 miRNAs were significantly positively correlated with age at diagnosis. Additionally, methylation of miR‐127 was significantly greater in higher stage tumors compared to lower stage tumors (P = 0.0039). However, no significant associations between smoking and gender with miRNA methylation were observed. Our results demonstrate that miRNA methylation plays a role in NSCLC tumorigenesis and prognosis. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Algorithm for fast monoexponential fitting based on Auto‐Regression on Linear Operations (ARLO) of data
Authors: Pei Mengchao , Nguyen Thanh D. , Thimmappa Nanda D. , Salustri Carlo , Dong Fang , Cooper Mitch A. , Li Jianqi , Prince Martin R. , Wang Yi
Published: March 2014

Purpose

To develop a fast and accurate monoexponential fitting algorithm based on Auto‐Regression on Linear Operations (ARLO) of data, and to validate its accuracy and computational speed by comparing it with the conventional Levenberg‐Marquardt (LM) and Log‐Linear (LL) algorithms.

Methods

ARLO, LM, and LL performances for T2* mapping were evaluated in simulation and in vivo imaging of liver (n = 15) and myocardial (n = 1) iron overload patients and the brain (two healthy volunteers).

Results

In simulations, ARLO consistently delivered accuracy similar to LM and significantly superior to LL. In in vivo mapping of T2* values, ARLO showed excellent agreement with LM, while LL showed only limited agreements with ARLO and LM. Compared with LM and LL in the liver, ARLO was 125 and 8 times faster using our Matlab implementations, and 156 and 13 times faster using our C++ implementations. In C++ implementations, ARLO reduced the online whole‐brain processing time from 9 min 15 s of LM and 35 s of LL to 2.7 s, providing T2* maps approximately in real time.

Conclusion

Due to comparable accuracy and significantly higher speed, ARLO can be considered as a valid alternative to the conventional LM algorithm for online T2* mapping. Magn Reson Med 73:843–850, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Muscle–fat MRI: 1.5 tesla and 3.0 tesla versus histology
Authors: Smith Andrew C. , Parrish Todd B. , Abbott Rebecca , Hoggarth Mark A. , Mendoza Karl , Chen Yu Fen , Elliott James M.
Published: March 2014

Introduction: We evaluated muscle/fat fraction (MFF) accuracy and reliability measured with an MR imaging technique at 1.5 Tesla (T) and 3.0T scanner strengths, using biopsy as reference. Methods: MRI was performed on muscle samples from pig and rabbit species (n = 8) at 1.5T and 3.0T. A chemical shift based 2‐point Dixon method was used, collecting in‐phase and out‐of‐phase data for fat/water of muscle samples. Values were compared with MFFs calculated from histology. Results: No significant difference was found between 1.5T and 3.0T (P values = 0.41–0.96), or between histology and imaging (P = 0.83) for any muscle tested. Conclusions: Results suggest that a 2‐point Dixon fat/water separation MRI technique may provide reliable quantification of MFFs at varying field strengths across different animal species, and consistency was established with biopsy. The results set a foundation for larger scale investigation of quantifying muscle fat in neuromuscular disorders. Muscle Nerve 50:170–176, 2014
The multidimensional sensation of desire to void differs between people with and without overactive bladder
Authors: Das Rebekah , Buckley Jonathan D. , Williams Marie T.
Published: March 2014

Aim

To determine whether the multidimensional sensation of desire to void can be reliability assessed and whether differences exist between people with and without overactive bladder (OAB). Assessing reliability and convergent validity of OAB screening tools comprised a secondary aim.

Methods

This observational, repeated‐measures study involved 64 volunteers (47 female), aged ≥50 years, with and without OAB symptoms. Six sensory dimensions (intensity, unpleasantness, suddenness, perceived difficulty “holding on,” bladder fullness and location of sensation) were assessed by structured interview on two occasions. Overactive bladder status was determined using the OAB Symptom Score and OAB Awareness Tool. Reliability of sensory dimensions was assessed via random effects mixed modeling. The ability of each sensory dimension to predict OAB status was determined by partial least squares regression.

Results

With the exception of sensory intensity, perceived bladder fullness, and one location of sensation, sensory dimensions were reliably reported. Sensory intensity, unpleasantness, suddenness, and perceived difficulty “holding on” predicted OAB, whereas perceived bladder fullness and sensory location did not. The OAB screening questionnaires demonstrated comparable test‐retest reliability and convergent validity.

Conclusions

People with and without OAB can reliably describe the multidimensional sensation of desire to void. The sensation of desire to void is more intense, unpleasant, sudden, and perceived as more difficult to hold on in people with OAB. Neurourol. Urodynam. 34:444–449, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Baseline predictors of efavirenz‐containing antiretroviral regimen adverse experiences
Authors: Sonenthal Paul D. , Ratshaa Bakgaki , Chimbengo Gilbert , Rantleru Tumelo , Ngoni Thelma , Barenbaum Sarah , Platoff Rebecca , Steenhoff Andrew P. , Gross Robert
Published: March 2014

Purpose

We aimed to identify modifiable, routinely available patient characteristics associated with adverse experiences potentially attributable to efavirenz‐based regimens in patients in Botswana.

Methods

HIV‐infected treatment naïve individuals starting a standard antiretroviral regimen including two nucleoside analog reverse transcriptase inhibitors and efavirenz in Botswana were enrolled in a prospective cohort. Adverse experiences were measured at 1 and 6 months using the efavirenz checklist, a 35‐item instrument developed by the AIDS Clinical Trials Group.

Results

We enrolled 232 patients from 11 March 2010 to 17 March 2011. One hundred ninety‐six were included in the month 1 analyses. Of the 196 included in the month 1 analyses, 157 (80%) completed the 6‐month follow‐up. Median efavirenz checklist score was 6 (interquartile range (IQR): 2–15) at month 1 and 1 (IQR: 0–5) at month 6. The median change in efavirenz checklist score from month 1–6 was −4 (IQR: −11 to −1), representing an improvement. Depressive symptoms, low CD4 count and less alcohol use were associated with improvement in adverse experiences over time. Low weight was associated with increased extent of adverse experiences at month 1 and 6. There was no confounding or effect modification.

Conclusions

Clinicians may want to consider more intensive and tailored adverse experience education and management in patients based on depressive symptoms, CD4 count, and weight. Further assessment of the mechanism of the effect of alcohol use on adverse experiences, including analysis of CYP2B6 genotype and plasma efavirenz concentrations, is warranted. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Improved synthesis of oligomeric phthalonitriles and studies designed for low temperature cure
Authors: Laskoski Matthew , Neal Arianna , Keller Teddy M. , Dominguez Dawn , Klug Christopher A. , Saab Andrew P.
Published: March 2014

An improved synthetic method has been developed for oligomeric aromatic ether ketone‐based phthalonitrile (PN) resins. A new curing additive was studied that lowers the cure temperature of the PN resin to around 150 °C and compared to the traditional high‐temperature aromatic diamine. Mechanical and thermo‐oxidative analyses of polymeric samples from both systems were determined and compared under various curing conditions. The PN polymer exhibited low water absorption regardless of the chosen cure system. Published 2014. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2014, 52, 1662–1668
Low band‐gap D–A conjugated copolymers based on anthradithiophene and diketopyrrolopyrrole for polymer solar cells and field‐effect transistors
Authors: Huang Jun , Zhu Yongxiang , Zhang Lianjie , Cai Ping , Xu Xiaofeng , Chen Junwu , Cao Yong
Published: March 2014

Two conjugated copolymers PADT‐DPP and PADT‐FDPP based on anthradithiophene and diketopyrrolopyrrole, with thiophene and furan as the π‐conjugated bridge, respectively, were successfully synthesized and characterized. The number‐averaged molecular weights of the two polymers are 38.7 and 30.2 kg/mol, respectively. Polymers PADT‐DPP and PADT‐FDPP exhibit broad absorption bands and their optical band gaps are 1.44 and 1.50 eV, respectively. The highest occupied molecular orbital energy level of PADT‐DPP is located at −5.03 eV while that of PADT‐FDPP is at −5.16 eV. In field‐effect transistors, PADT‐DPP and PADT‐FDPP displayed hole mobilities of 4.7 × 10−3 and 2.7 × 10−3 cm2/(V s), respectively. In polymer solar cells, PADT‐DPP and PADT‐FDPP showed power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 3.44% and 0.29%, respectively. Atomic force microscopy revealed that the poor efficiency of PADT‐FDPP should be related to the large two‐phase separation in its active layer. If 1,8‐diiodooctane (DIO) was used as the solvent additive, the PCE of PADT‐DPP remained almost unchanged due to very limited morphology variation. However, the addition of DIO could remarkably elevate the PCE of PADT‐FDPP to 2.62% because of the greatly improved morphology. Our results suggest that the anthradithiophene as an electron‐donating polycyclic system is useful to construct new D–A alternating copolymers for efficient polymer solar cells. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2014, 52, 1652–1661