bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Elucidation of Mg2+ binding activity of adenylate kinase from Mycobacterium tuberculosisH37Rv using fluorescence studies
Authors: Meena Laxman S. , Dhakate Sanjay R. , Sahare Purushottam D. 
Published: November 2012

AbstractAdenylate kinase (AK) is a small ubiquitous enzyme that catalyzes the reversible transfer of the terminal phosphate group from adenine triphosphate (ATP): magnesium ion (Mg2+) to adenine monophosphate (AMP) to form two molecules of adenine diphosphate (ADP). AK thus maintains the homeostasis of adenine nucleotides in eukaryotes and prokaryotes. Because the [ATP]/[ADP] ratio is an important parameter in energy regulation in cells, Mg2+‐activated AK has an important biological role, particularly in the case of bacteria, as imbalance in the ratio of [ATP]/[ADP] has been associated with alteration in its DNA supercoiling state. In the present study, magnesium‐binding assays were carried out by systematically varying the concentrations of Mg2+, protein, AMP, ATP, and indicator in kinetic experiments. We report evidence that during magnesium‐binding assay, the fluorescence level of the indicator “Mag‐Indo‐1” changes with protein concentration, suggesting that magnesium ions are binding to AK. The dual activity of AK both as nucleoside monophosphate and diphosphate kinases suggests that this enzyme may have a role in RNA and DNA biosynthesis in addition to its role in intracellular nucleotide metabolism. According to the proposed model, the magnesium‐activated AK exhibits an increase in its forward reaction rate compared with the inactivated form. These findings imply that Mg2+ could be an important regulator in the energy signaling network in cells.
Structural investigation of tumor differentiation factor
Authors: Roy Urmi , Sokolowska Izabela , Woods Alisa G. , Darie Costel C. 
Published: November 2012

AbstractTumor differentiation factor (TDF) is a 17 kDa protein produced by the pituitary and secreted into the bloodstream, with no definitive function and incomplete characterization. TDF has the following four cysteine (Cys) residues: Cys17, Cys70, Cys97, and Cys98. To understand the function of TDF, we (1) overexpressed and characterized recombinant TDF (rTDF); (2) investigated native, secreted TDF; and (3) assessed potential disulfide connectivities using molecular modeling. Our results from Western blotting (WB) experiments suggest that rTDF is mostly expressed as insoluble, monomeric, and dimeric forms. Mass spectrometry analysis of the overexpressed rTDF identified a peptide that is a part of TDF protein. WB of the native, secreted TDF detected it as a 50 kDa band. In addition, investigation of TDF by molecular modeling suggests that the Cys residues may form disulfide bridges between Cys17–Cys98 and Cys70–Cys17.
Environmental Management of End‐of‐Life Products: Nine Factors of Sustainability in Collaborative Networks
Authors: Rizzi Francesco , Bartolozzi Irene , Borghini Alessandra , Frey Marco 
Published: November 2012

ABSTRACTThe paradigm of the green economy has contributed to raising the attention paid to developing sustainability‐oriented strategies for supply chain (SC) management. The responsibility of producers to extend and reverse SCs is a critical and timely topic that captures increasing concerns over the way firms can adapt their business models to interlinking technical, socio‐economic and environmental frameworks. This is particularly true when producers are not also reuse/recycle actors. By performing a critical review of the scientific literature on this field, this article develops nine elemental factors that can be considered for assessing the impacts of collaborative strategies as a means to implement extended producer responsibility (EPR) in open‐loop SCs. The resulting conceptual framework provides EPR implementation guidance under different market conditions. Inter‐organizational relationships are found to present both opportunities and threats that can be profitably managed under a systemic perspective. Implications for management and needs for further research are discussed. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Physical therapy management of female chronic pelvic pain: Anatomic considerations
Authors: George Susan E. , Clinton Susan C. , Borello‐France Diane F. 
Published: November 2012

AbstractThe multisystem nature of female chronic pelvic pain (CPP) makes this condition a challenge for physical therapists and other health care providers to manage. This article uses a case scenario to illustrate commonly reported somatic, visceral, and neurologic symptoms and their associated health and participation impact in a female with CPP. Differential diagnosis of pain generators requires an in‐depth understanding of possible anatomic and physiologic contributors to this disorder. This article provides a detailed discussion of the relevant clinical anatomy with specific attention to complex interrelationships between anatomic structures potentially leading to the patient's pain. In addition, it describes the physical therapy management specific to this case, including examination, differential diagnosis, and progression of interventions. Clin. Anat. 26:77–88, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Predictors and outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve implantation using different approaches according to the valve academic research consortium definitions
Authors: Seiffert Moritz , Schnabel Renate , Conradi Lenard , Diemert Patrick , Schirmer Johannes , Koschyk Dietmar , Linder Matthias , Kersten Jan F. , Grosser Andrea , Wilde Sandra , Blankenberg Stefan , Reichenspurner Hermann , Baldus Stephan , Treede Hendrik 
Published: November 2012

ObjectivesWe report the results of a large single‐center study evaluating predictors and outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) with different devices and access routes according to the Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC).BackgroundThe widespread adoption of TAVI warrants a systematic analysis of outcomes. Only few comprehensive data exist comparing different approaches as selected by a heart team.MethodsTAVI was performed in 326 consecutive patients (mean age 80.6 ± 7.1 years, 55.5% female) at high risk for surgery with balloon‐expandable and self‐expanding devices through transfemoral or transapical access. Data were analyzed according to VARC endpoints; predictors of mortality were identified.ResultsAll‐cause mortality was 10.1% (30 days) and 29.9% (1 year) overall and comparable with regard to valve or access choice (P = 0.295) despite different risk profiles at baseline. Device success and 30‐day safety endpoints were achieved in 87.1 and 21.2%. Myocardial infarction [hazard ratio (HR) 6.52], stage‐2 and −3 acute kidney injury (HR 2.52 and 6.80) and major access site complications (HR 1.96) were independent predictors of 1‐year all‐cause mortality. Device success had a protective effect (HR 0.58). Baseline predictors included body mass index <20 kg/m2 (HR 3.20), NYHA class IV (HR 1.87), left ventricular ejection‐fraction <30% (HR 2.30), higher STS‐PROM scores (HR 1.05 per percent), and age (group 75–85 years, HR 0.47).ConclusionsComparable results were achieved with different devices and access routes in a heart team approach. Baseline and perioperative predictors of all‐cause mortality were identified, contributing to the refinement of patient and device selection criteria for TAVI. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Long‐term results of plaque excision combined with aggressive pharmacotherapy in high‐Risk patients with advanced peripheral artery disease (SAVE a LEG registry)
Authors: Kiesz R. Stefan , Wiernek Szymon L. , Wiernek Barbara K. , Radvany Martin G. , Buszman Piotr P. , Szymanski Radoslaw , Konkolewska Magda D. , Martin Jack L. , Buszman Pawel E. 
Published: November 2012

BackgroundIn United States alone there are more than 12 million people with peripheral artery disease (PAD). Long‐term outcomes of plaque excision in high‐risk population (patients with diabetes and patients with end stage renal disease on dialysis) are scarce.MethodsSince November 2003, we treated 225 consecutive patients (138 male, mean age: 66.3 ± 12.4, range: 29–93) with SilverHawkTM plaque excision for critical limb ischemia or disabling claudication. A total of 367 procedures were performed treating 832 lesions (157 restenotic, 675 de novo). One hundred fifty‐five patients (68.9%) were diabetics, 74 (32.9%) were on dialysis. All patients were treated with statins, clopidogrel, aspirin, and aggressive glycemic control. The primary endpoint for our study was target lesion revascularization (TLR), and the secondary endpoint was an assessment of major adverse events (all cause death, amputation, TLR).ResultsThe average time of observation was 2.2 ± 1.2 years. Procedural success rate was 99.4% with <30% residual stenosis achieved in 818 (98.9%) lesions. SilverHawk was used alone in 86.7%. No acute limb loss or major perforation occurred. Sixty (26.6%) patients had TLR. Long‐term mortality was 16.4%. Seven (3.1%) patients had to undergo major amputations and 7 (3.1%) minor amputations. Seventy (31.1%) patients had a major adverse event. Atorvastatin 80 mg was found to be independent predictor of survival, and major amputation was found to be independent predictor of mortality.ConclusionsSilverHawk Plaque Excision combined with aggressive pharmacotherapy in this presented high‐risk population is associated with promising long‐term outcomes that compare favorably with accepted standards of care. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Utility and feasibility of ultrasound‐guided access in patients with critical limb ischemia
Authors: Mustapha J.A. , Saab Fadi , Diaz Larry , Karenko Barbara , Richards Lance , Laeder Theresa , Heaney Carmen M. , Das Tony 
Published: November 2012

BackgroundPatients with advanced peripheral vascular disease (PVD) and critical limb ischemia (CLI) require immediate revascularization to improve blood flow and prevent amputation. Vascular, and especially tibial, access is arguably a very important part of the procedure. Utilization of ultrasound (US) guidance to access the peripheral vessels will maximize success and decrease the risk of complications.MethodsThis is a retrospective analysis of patients admitted to our institution between 2010 and 2011. Eighty‐six patients with 191 lesions underwent revascularization for advanced PVD and CLI. US guidance was utilized to access the vascular bed in an antegrade or retrograde fashion in 100% of these patients. Data collected included success rate and time to access using US. Immediate in hospital and 30 day outcomes were also documented.ResultsThe average age of patients was 69.8 years, with 69.7% male patients. All tibial access (33.7%) was obtained under US guidance. Obtaining vascular access using US was achieved in 95.3% of patients. At discharge, access site complications were limited to one patient (1.1%) with a pseudoaneurysm; no access complications related to the tibial vessels. At 30 days, there was one major amputation (1.1%) and one vascular access complication (1.1%).ConclusionUS guided access is a feasible and safe procedure that can aid in accessing vascular conduits in patients with CLI. Applying this technique across the board in CLI patients decreases the risk of immediate complications and facilitates accessing tibial arteries. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Imaging Catalysts at Work: A Hierarchical Approach from the Macro‐ to the Meso‐ and Nano‐scale
Authors: Grunwaldt Jan‐Dierk , Wagner Jakob B. , Dunin‐Borkowski Rafal E. 
Published: November 2012

AbstractThis review highlights the importance of developing multi‐scale characterisation techniques for analysing operating catalysts in their working environment. We emphasise that a hierarchy of in situ techniques that provides macro‐, meso‐ and nano‐scale information is required to elucidate and optimise catalyst performance fully. This combined methodology should ideally embrace spatially resolved and spatio‐temporal monitoring of a) the structure, catalytic activity, temperature and heat/mass transfer pattern in axial and radial directions in real reactors, b) the structure and temperature/heat/mass transport gradients in shaped catalysts and catalyst grains and c) meso‐ and nano‐scale information about particles and clusters, whose physical and electronic properties are linked directly to the micro‐kinetic behaviour of the catalysts. Techniques such as X‐ray diffraction (XRD), infrared (IR), Raman, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV/Vis, and X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), which have mainly provided global atomic scale information, are being developed to provide the same information on a more local scale, often with sub‐second time resolution. X‐ray microscopy, both in the soft and more recently in the hard X‐ray regime, allows two‐ and three‐dimensional information to be collected down to 10 nm spatial resolution in a gas atmosphere or liquid, although this improvement is at the expense of temporal resolution. Electron microscopy, which provides excellent local atomic scale structural and spectroscopic information, is being developed towards tomographic imaging and realistic conditions, allowing gaps to be bridged in pressure, reaction conditions and length scales, up to the meso‐ and macro‐scale. In addition, new techniques such as single molecule fluorescence spectroscopy and non‐linear spectroscopic techniques are emerging. In this review, we discuss prospects for the development and combined application of both existing and new techniques for in situ catalyst characterisation.
Pressure versus Temperature Effects on Intramolecular Electron Transfer in Mixed‐Valence Complexes
Authors: Scheins Stephan , Overgaard Jacob , Timco Grigore A. , Stash Adam , Chen Yu‐Sheng , Larsen Finn K. , Christensen Mogens , Jørgensen Mads R. V. , Madsen Solveig R. , Schmøkel Mette S. , Iversen Bo B. 
Published: November 2012

AbstractMixed‐valence trinuclear carboxylates, [M3O(O2CR)6L3] (M=metal, L=terminal ligand), have small differences in potential energy between the configurations MIIMIIIMIII⇔︁ MIIIMIIMIII⇔︁MIIIMIIIMII, which means that small external changes can have large structural effects, owing to the differences in coordination geometry between M2+ and M3+ sites (e.g., about 0.2 Å for FeO bond lengths). It is well‐established that the electron transfer (ET) between the metal sites in these mixed‐valence molecules is strongly dependent on temperature and on the specific crystal environment; however, herein, for the first time, we examine the effect of pressure on the electron transfer. Based on single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction data that were measured at 15, 90, 100, 110, 130, 160, and 298 K on three different crystals, we first unexpectedly found that our batch of Fe3O (O2CC(CH3)3)6(C5H5N)3 (1) exhibited a different temperature dependence of the ET process than previous studies of compound 1 have shown. We observed a phase transition at around 130 K that was related to complete valence trapping and Hirshfeld surface analysis revealed that this phase transition was governed by a subtle competition between CH⋅⋅⋅π and π⋅⋅⋅π intermolecular interactions. Subsequent high‐pressure single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction at pressures of 0.15, 0.35, 0.45, 0.74, and 0.96 GPa revealed that it was not possible to trigger the phase transition (i.e., valence trapping) by a reduction of the unit‐cell volume, owing to this external pressure. We conclude that modulation of the ET process requires anisotropic changes in the intermolecular interactions, which occur when various directional chemical bonds are affected differently by changes in temperature, but not by the application of pressure.
Probing the Nature of the Cluster Effect Observed with Synthetic Multivalent Galactosides and Peanut Agglutinin Lectin
Authors: Almant Mehdi , Mastouri Amira , Gallego‐Yerga Laura , García Fernandez José Manuel , Ortiz Mellet Carmen , Kovensky José , Morandat Sandrine , El Kirat Karim , Gouin Sébastien G. 
Published: November 2012

AbstractWe designed a set of multi‐galactosides with valencies ranging from one to seven and different spacer‐arm lengths. The compounds display a high structural homology for a strict assessment of multivalent phenomena. The multimers were first evaluated by an enzyme‐linked lectin assay (ELLA) toward the peanut agglutinin (PNA). The binding affinity was shown to be dependent on the spacer‐arm length, and cluster effects were observed for the galactosides bearing the shortest and the longest linkers. The latter compounds were shown to be much more potent PNA cross‐linkers in a “sandwich assay”. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) experiments also revealed the formation of soluble aggregates between heptavalent derivatives with medium or long linkers and the labeled PNA. ELLA experiments performed with valency‐controlled clusters and labeled lectins are therefore not always devoid from aggregative processes. The precise nature of the multivalent interaction observed by ELLA for the compounds bearing the shortest linkers, which are unable to form PNA aggregates, was further investigated by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The galactosides were grafted onto the tip of a cantilever and the PNA lectin onto a gold surface. Similar unbinding forces were registered when the valency of the ligands was increased, thus showing that the multimers cannot interact more strongly with PNA. Multiple binding events to the PNA were also never observed, thus confirming that a chelate binding mode does not operate with the multivalent galactosides, probably because the linkers are too short. Altogether, these results suggest that the cluster effect that operates in ELLA with the multimers is not related to additional PNA stabilizations and can be ascribed to local concentration effects that favor a dynamic turnover of the tethered galactosides in the PNA binding sites.
Thiol‐Directed Synthesis of Highly Fluorescent Gold Clusters and Their Conversion into Stable Imaging Nanoprobes
Authors: Palmal Sharbari , Basiruddin SK , Maity Amit Ranjan , Ray Sekhar C. , Jana Nikhil R. 
Published: November 2012

AbstractFluorescent gold clusters (FGCs) with tunable emission from blue to red and quantum yields in the range of 6–17 % have been synthesized by simple modification of the conditions used for the synthesis of gold nanoparticles, namely by replacing the stronger reducing agent with a controlled amount of thiol. Various functional FGCs with hydrodynamic diameters of 5–12 nm have been successfully synthesized and used as cell labels. The results of our investigations strongly indicate that FGCs composed of Au0 are more stable imaging probes than commonly reported red/NIR‐emitting FGCs with a composition of Au0/AuI, as this combination rapidly transforms into nonfluorescent large clusters on exposure to light. The FGC‐based nanoprobes reported herein exhibit stable fluorescence upon continuous light exposure and can be used as imaging probes with low cytotoxicity.
Unusual Regenerable Porous Metal–Organic Framework Based on a New Triple Helical Molecular Necklace for Separating Organosulfur Compounds
Authors: Li Shun‐Li , Lan Ya‐Qian , Sakurai Hiroaki , Xu Qiang 
Published: November 2012

AbstractDesulfurization of fuels is receiving more and more attention all over the world due to the increase of stringent environmental regulations and fuel specifications. The metal–organic framework (MOF) is a new class of crystalline materials, and high porosity, one of the most important properties of MOFs, plays a central role in the functional properties. However, the investigation of MOFs, being employed as sorbents for adsorptive desulfurization, is still scarce. In this regard, we have constructed a new 3D porous compound 1 by using rigidly designed carboxylate ligands, which, for the first time, exhibit an unusual triple molecular necklace‐like helix. The N2 sorption isotherms of 1 show that it has a large Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area and pore volume. With the stable pore structure and appropriate pore sizes, compound 1 has been used as a sorbent for adsorptive desulfurization. The results indicate that compound 1 shows an excellent adsorption property and, more importantly, displays excellent stability, repeatability, and regenerability. Thus, the design and synthesis of targeted MOFs with appropriate pore size and increased interactions between organosulfur compounds and ligands/metals from MOFs is crucial for adsorptive desulfurization, which might be an effective guide to find an efficient and green adsorbent for desulfurization.
Understanding the Determinants of RiskMetrics/ISS Ratings of the Quality of UK Companies' Corporate Governance Practice
Authors: Hussainey Khaled , Al‐Najjar Basil 
Published: November 2012

AbstractWe examine the determinants of RiskMetrics/ISS Ratings of the quality of UK companies' corporate governance practice and investigate whether corporate governance mechanisms and firm specific characteristics affect these ratings. We also investigate the association between firms' financial distress and these ratings. Using data for nonfinancial Financial Times Stock Exchange (FTSE) 250 firms over the 2003 to 2009 period, we find that board independence, managerial ownership, institutional ownership, firm size, and profitability are associated with firms' corporate governance ratings. In addition, we find that more independent directors on the board, more institutional ownership, and larger size lead to a high level of board‐related ratings. Finally, we find no association between corporate governance ratings and financial distress. Copyright © 2012 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fate of Pesticides and Their Transformation Products: First Flush Effects in a Semi‐Arid Catchment
Authors: Olsson Oliver , Khodorkovsky Miriam , Gassmann Matthias , Friedler Eran , Schneider Mandy , Dubowski Yael 
Published: November 2012

AbstractAlthough it is known for many years, that transformation products (TPs) of pesticides are often more persistent, mobile, and sometimes more toxic than the parent compound, former catchment scale studies of substance release and flushing effects focused only on the parent compound. In this study, four river points were sampled in the Hula Valley, Israel, and samples were analyzed in the lab for chlorpyrifos (CP) and endosulfan residues (including transformation products; TPs). Sampling results of the first rainfall in autumn 2009 identified a strong release of most substances to the rivers. First flush effects of these substances were assessed regarding the risk for drinking water supply and ecology, like fresh water invertebrates and fish. Although, these substances were found in Jordan River water during the first significant rainfall the observed levels are below international drinking water guideline values with no adverse effects on human health in the region. However, the observed CP and chlorpyrifos oxon (CPO) levels are above the acute toxicity for fresh water invertebrates and fish. The study shows that the Hula Valley was an important source of pesticides and TPs at the Upper Jordan River basin and that substance flushing is extremely important for pesticides‐monitoring campaigns.