bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of Glycerol in Biodiesel Using a Nickel(II) Oxyhydroxide Chemically Modified Electrode by Cyclic Voltammetry
Authors: Pott Marinho Ballottin Daniela , Lataro Paim Leonardo , Ramos Stradiotto Nelson
Published: June 2013

A glassy carbon electrode chemically modified with nickel oxyhydroxide from a nickel hexacyanoferrate (NiHCF) film was used to determine glycerol in biodiesel by cyclic voltammetry. The modified electrode exhibited a linear response to glycerol concentration in the range from 0.05 to 0.35 mmol L−1, and a detection limit of 0.030 mmol L−1. The glycerol concentration found in the biodiesel sample was 0.156 mmol L−1. The method developed in this study showed a recovery of (100.3±5.0)%.
No‐slip consistent immersed boundary particle tracking to simulate impaction filtration in porous media
Authors: Ghazaryan L. , Lopez Penha D.J. , Stolz S. , Kuczaj A.K. , Geurts B.J.
Published: June 2013

In this paper, we present a new method for simulating the motion of a disperse particle phase in a carrier gas through porous media. We assume a sufficiently dilute particle‐laden flow and compute, independently of the disperse phase, the steady laminar fluid velocity using the immersed boundary method. Given the velocity of the carrier gas, the equations of motion for the particles experiencing the Stokes drag force are solved to determine their trajectories. The ‘no‐slip consistent’ particle tracking algorithm avoids possible numerical filtration of very small particles due to the nonzero velocity field at the solid–fluid interface introduced by the immersed boundary method. This physically consistent tracking allows a reliable estimation of the filtration efficiency of porous filters due to inertial impaction. We illustrate and test our new approach for model porous media consisting of a structured array of aligned rectangular fibers, arranged in line and staggered. In the staggered geometry, the effect of the residual velocity at the solid–fluid interface is significant for particles with low inertia. Without adopting the developed no‐slip consistent numerical method, an artificial numerical filtration is observed, which becomes dominant for small enough particles. For both the in line and the staggered geometries, the filtration rate depends quite strongly and non monotonically on the particle inertia. This is expressed most clearly in the staggered arrangement in which a very strong increase in the filtration efficiency is observed at a well‐defined critical droplet size, corresponding to a qualitative change in the dominant particle paths in the porous medium. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Negative expectations facilitate mechanical hyperalgesia after high‐frequency electrical stimulation of human skin
Authors: van den Broeke E.N. , Geene N. , van Rijn C.M. , Wilder‐Smith O.H.G. , Oosterman J.
Published: June 2013

Background

High‐frequency electrical stimulation (HFS) of human skin induces not only an increased pain sensitivity in the conditioning area but also an increased pain sensitivity to mechanical punctate stimuli in the non‐conditioned surrounding skin area. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether this heterotopically increased mechanical pain sensitivity can be facilitated through the induction of negative expectations.

Methods

In two independent conditions [a nocebo (n = 15) and control condition (n = 15)], we applied mechanical pain stimuli before, directly after, 10 min and 20 min after HFS in the skin area surrounding the conditioning area, and measured the reported pain intensity [visual analogue scale (VAS)]. All subjects (of both conditions) received a written instruction about the HFS protocol, but only the instruction in the nocebo condition was extended by the following text (in Dutch): ‘After the HFS, your skin will become more sensitive to the pinprick stimulation’.

Results

Our results clearly show that induced expectations of increased mechanical pain sensitivity after HFS facilitates the reported pain intensity after HFS more than when no information is given.

Conclusions

This study shows for the first time that brain mechanisms, via the induction of negative expectations, can facilitate heterotopic mechanical hyperalgesia after HFS of human skin.
Sex differences in formalin‐evoked primary afferent release of substance P
Authors: Nazarian A. , Tenayuca J.M. , Almasarweh F. , Armendariz A. , Are D.
Published: June 2013

Background

Sex differences in pain have been well documented; however, the mechanisms involved remain to be elucidated. The present study examined whether sex differences exist in the functioning of primary afferent fibres by assessing formalin‐evoked release of substance P by way of neurokinin 1 receptor (NK1r) internalization. The study also investigated whether the observed effects would be oestradiol‐sensitive.

Methods

Intact and gonadectomized male and female rats were given intraplantar formalin and then euthanized either 5 or 30 min later, representing phase 1 or 2 of the formalin response, respectively. In a subsequent experiment, ovariectomized females received oestradiol prior to formalin administration. Lastly, formalin‐evoked NK1r internalization was assessed across the female oestrous cycle.

Results

Intraplantar formalin evoked significant NK1r internalization, during phase 1 and 2, in both males and females. During phase 1, no differences in NK1r internalization were detected between males or females, regardless of the gonadal status. In contrast, during phase 2, intact females exhibited greater NK1r internalization than intact males. Moreover, ovariectomy reduced NK1r internalization as compared to intact females, whereas castration had no effect as compared to intact males. Oestradiol supplementation in ovariectomized females increased NK1r internalization to levels observed in intact females. Formalin‐evoked NK1r internalization did not differ across the oestrous cycle.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that oestradiol mediates sex differences in formalin‐evoked substance P release, which may contribute to a differential development of central sensitization and pain behaviours in males and females.
Dental implants from functionally graded materials
Authors: Mehrali Mehdi , Shirazi Farid Seyed , Mehrali Mohammad , Metselaar Hendrik Simon Cornelis , Kadri Nahrizul Adib Bin , Osman Noor Azuan Abu
Published: June 2013

Functionally graded material (FGM) is a heterogeneous composite material including a number of constituents that exhibit a compositional gradient from one surface of the material to the other subsequently, resulting in a material with continuously varying properties in the thickness direction. FGMs are gaining attention for biomedical applications, especially for implants, owing to their reported superior composition. Dental implants can be functionally graded to create an optimized mechanical behavior and achieve the intended biocompatibility and osseointegration improvement. This review presents a comprehensive summary of biomaterials and manufacturing techniques researchers employ throughout the world. Generally, FGM and FGM porous biomaterials are more difficult to fabricate than uniform or homogenous biomaterials. Therefore, our discussion is intended to give the readers about successful and obstacles fabrication of FGM and porous FGM in dental implants that will bring state‐of‐the‐art technology to the bedside and develop quality of life and present standards of care. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A: 3046‐3057, 2013.
Testosterone increases GLUT4‐dependent glucose uptake in cardiomyocytes
Authors: Wilson Carlos , Contreras‐Ferrat Ariel , Venegas Nataly , Osorio‐Fuentealba César , Pávez Mario , Montoya Katherine , Durán Javier , Maass Rodrigo , Lavandero Sergio , Estrada Manuel
Published: June 2013

Testosterone exerts important effects in the heart. Cardiomyocytes are target cells for androgens, and testosterone induces rapid effects via Ca2+ release and protein kinase activation and long‐term effects via cardiomyocyte differentiation and hypertrophy. Furthermore, it stimulates metabolic effects such as increasing glucose uptake in different tissues. Cardiomyocytes preferentially consume fatty acids for ATP production, but under particular circumstances, glucose uptake is increased to optimize energy production. We studied the effects of testosterone on glucose uptake in cardiomyocytes. We found that testosterone increased uptake of the fluorescent glucose analog 2‐(N‐(7‐nitrobenz‐2‐oxa‐1, 3‐diazol‐4‐yl)amino)‐2‐deoxyglucose and [3H]2‐deoxyglucose, which was blocked by the glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) inhibitor indinavir. Testosterone stimulation in the presence of cyproterone or albumin‐bound testosterone‐induced glucose uptake, which suggests an effect that is independent of the intracellular androgen receptor. To determine the degree of GLUT4 cell surface exposure, cardiomyocytes were transfected with the plasmid GLUT4myc‐eGFP. Subsequently, testosterone increased GLUT4myc‐GFP exposure at the plasma membrane. Inhibition of Akt by the Akt‐inhibitor‐VIII had no effect. However, inhibition of Ca2+/calmodulin protein kinase (CaMKII) (KN‐93 and autocamtide‐2 related inhibitory peptide II) and AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) (compound C and siRNA for AMPK) prevented glucose uptake induced by testosterone. Moreover, GLUT4myc‐eGFP exposure at the cell surface caused by testosterone was also abolished after CaMKII and AMPK inhibition. These results suggest that testosterone increases GLUT4‐dependent glucose uptake, which is mediated by CaMKII and AMPK in cultured cardiomyocytes. Glucose uptake could represent a mechanism by which testosterone increases energy production and protein synthesis in cardiomyocytes. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 2399–2407, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The first second of volcanic eruptions from the Erebus volcano lava lake, Antarctica—Energies, pressures, seismology, and infrasound
Authors: Gerst A. , Hort M. , Aster R. C. , Johnson J. B. , Kyle P. R.
Published: June 2013

We describe a multiparameter experiment at Erebus volcano, Antarctica, employing Doppler radar, video, acoustic, and seismic observations to estimate the detailed energy budget of large (up to 40 m‐diameter) bubble bursts from a persistent phonolite lava lake. These explosions are readily studied from the crater rim at ranges of less than 500 m and present an ideal opportunity to constrain the dynamics and mechanism of magmatic bubble bursts that can drive Strombolian and Hawaiian eruptions. We estimate the energy budget of the first second of a typical Erebus explosion as a function of time and energy type. We constrain gas pressures and forces using an analytic model for the expansion of a gas bubble above a conduit that incorporates conduit geometry and magma and gas parameters. The model, consistent with video and radar observations, invokes a spherical bulging surface with a base diameter equal to that of the lava lake. The model has no ad hoc free parameters, and geometrical calculations predict zenith height, velocity, and acceleration during shell expansion. During explosions, the energy contained in hot overpressured gas bubbles is freed and partitioned into other energy types, where by far the greatest nonthermal energy component is the kinetic and gravitational potential energy of the accelerated magma shell (>109 J). Seismic source energy created by explosions is estimated from radar measurements and is consistent with source energy determined from seismic observations. For the generation of the infrasonic signal, a dual mechanism incorporating a terminally disrupted slug is proposed, which clarifies previous models and provides good fits to observed infrasonic pressures. A new and straightforward method is presented for determining gas volumes from slug explosions at volcanoes from remote infrasound recordings.
A double seismic zone in the subducting Juan Fernandez Ridge of the Nazca Plate (32°S), central Chile
Authors: Marot M. , Monfret T. , Pardo M. , Ranalli G. , Nolet G.
Published: June 2013

The region of central Chile offers a unique opportunity to study the links between the subducting Juan Fernandez Ridge, the flat slab, the double seismic zone (DSZ), and the absence of modern volcanism. Here we report the presence and characteristics of the first observed DSZ within the intermediate‐depth Nazca slab using two temporary seismic catalogs (Ovalle 1999 and Chile Argentina Seismological Measurement Experiment). The lower plane of seismicity (LP) is located 20–25 km below the upper plane, begins at 50 km depth, and merges with the lower plane at 120 km depth, where the slab becomes horizontal. Focal mechanism analysis and stress tensor calculations indicate that the slab's state of stress is dominantly controlled by plate convergence and overriding crust thickness: Above 60–70 km depth, the slab is in horizontal compression, and below, it is in horizontal extension, parallel to plate convergence, which can be accounted for by vertical loading of the overriding lithosphere. Focal mechanisms below 60–70 km depth are strongly correlated with offshore outer rise bend faults, suggesting the reactivation of preexisting faults below this depth. The large interplane distances for all Nazca DSZs can be related to the slab's unusually cold thermal structure with respect to its age. Since LPs globally seem to mimic mantle mineral dehydration paths, we suggest that fluid migration and dehydration embrittlement provide the mechanism necessary to weaken the rock and that the stress field determines the direction of rupture.
Rapid postseismic relaxation after the great 2006–2007 Kuril earthquakes from GPS observations in 2007–2011
Authors: Kogan Mikhail G. , Vasilenko Nikolay F. , Frolov Dmitry I. , Freymueller Jeffrey T. , Steblov Grigory M. , Prytkov Alexandr S. , Ekström Göran
Published: June 2013

The 2006–2007 doublet of Mw > 8 earthquakes in the Kuril subduction zone caused postseismic transient motion in the asthenosphere, which we observed on the Kuril GPS Array in 2007–2011. Here we show that the Maxwell asthenospheric viscosity that best fits the geodetic data increased by nearly an order of magnitude over the interval of 4 years, from 2 × 1017 to 1 × 1018 Pa s. These effective values of viscosity can be explained by a power law rheology for which strain rate is proportional to stress raised to a power n > 1. The apparent change in viscosity can also be caused by other factors such as coupling between afterslip and viscoelastic flow. The open and intriguing question in connection with postseismic data after the Kuril earthquake doublet is the magnitude of the long‐term asthenospheric viscosity, which shall be revealed by continued observations. An asthenosphere with viscosity of about 1 × 1019 Pa s is favored by the postseismic deformation still observed several decades after the 1960 Chile and 1964 Alaska Mw ~9 earthquakes. However, postseismic deformation associated with the 1952 southern Kamchatka Mw ~9 earthquake currently is not observed in the northern Kurils, an indication that the long‐term asthenospheric viscosity in the Kurils is lower than that in Chile and Alaska.
Evaluating cloud microphysics from NICAM against CloudSat and CALIPSO
Authors: Hashino Tempei , Satoh Masaki , Hagihara Yuichiro , Kubota Takuji , Matsui Toshihisa , Nasuno Tomoe , Okamoto Hajime
Published: June 2013

We describe a method to evaluate cloud microphysics simulated with a global cloud‐resolving model against CloudSat and Cloud‐Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observation (CALIPSO) satellite data. Output from the Nonhydrostatic Icosahedral Atmospheric Model (NICAM) is run through a satellite‐sensor simulator (Joint Simulator for Satellite Sensors), then directly compared to the radar and lidar signals from CloudSat and CALIPSO. The forward approach allows for consistency in cloud microphysical assumption involved in the evaluation. To investigate the dependence of the signals on the temperature, we use temperature extensively as the vertical coordinate. The global statistical analysis of the radar reflectivity shows that the simulation overestimates all the percentiles above −50°C and that snow category contributes significantly to low reflectivity values between −80 and −40°C. The simulated lidar signals have two modes associated with cloud ice and snow categories, though the observations have only one mode. The synergetic use of radar reflectivity and lidar backscatter enables us to determine the relative magnitudes of ice/liquid water contents and effective radii without use of retrievals. The radar‐and‐lidar diagnosis for cloud tops shows that, due to snow category, NICAM overestimates the mass‐equivalent effective radius and underestimates ice water content. Also, the diagnosis was shown to be useful to investigate sensitivities of the parameters of bulk microphysical schemes on the water contents and sizes. The nonspherical scattering of ice particles was shown to affect the above radar‐and‐lidar diagnosis for large reflectivity ranges but not to alter most of the other diagnoses for this simulation.
Historical reconstruction of organic carbon decay and preservation in sediments on the East China Sea shelf
Authors: Li Xinxin , Bianchi Thomas S. , Allison Mead A. , Chapman Piers , Yang Guipeng
Published: June 2013

Sediment cores were collected from the East China Sea inner shelf in 2010 to study the decay and preservation of organic carbon (OC). The highest sediment mass accumulation rate (0.61 ± 0.20 g cm−2 yr−1), derived from 210Pb, was found near the river mouth and decreased alongshore to the south (0.17 ± 0.004 g cm−2 yr−1), and in an offshore direction (0.31 ± 0.08 g cm−2 yr−1). Average total OC content was higher at inner shelf stations (0.52%) than those offshore (0.38%). The δ13C was more depleted at nearshore (−23.49‰ to −21.97‰) than offshore (−22.49‰ to −21.60‰) stations. Principal component analysis indicated that terrestrial OC, as indicated by lignin‐phenols (Λ8) values, was preserved in sediment closer to the coast (0.22–0.44), while offshore sediment was more composed of lignin‐poor (0.12–0.24) degraded OC that was likely hydrodynamically sorted. Marine‐derived OC, as indicated by plant pigments, was significantly more abundant in the sediment mixed layer than the underlying accumulation layer. Historical flooding events were detected in Λ8 profiles in two of the six cores located at midshelf stations. Despite the magnitude of the 2010 flood in East China, we did not see any signature of this event with the chemical biomarker in these two cores. This may suggest that reduced sediment loading due to recent dam construction may have greatly decoupled river inputs with sediment loading to shelf sediment. The total OC standing stock since 1900 was approximately 1.62 ± 1.15 kg C m−2, about one tenth of all the middle and lower lakes in the Changjiang catchment basin. This work further supports the need for more research to better understand how the reduced inputs of fluvial input of sediments from Chinese rivers (due to river diversions and dams) affect carbon cycling in the East China Sea.
On even circuit decompositions of eulerian graphs
Authors: Zhang Cun‐Quan
Published: June 2013

Let G be an eulerian graph without odd block. It was proved by P. D. Seymour that if G is planar, then E(G) has a circuit decomposition F such that each circuit of F is of even length. In this paper the theorem of Seymour is generalized: If G contains no subgraph contractible to K5, then E(G) has an even circuit decomposition.
Factoring cartesian‐product graphs
Authors: Imrich Wilfried , Žerovnik Janez
Published: June 2013

In a fundamental paper, G. Sabidussi [“Graph Multiplication,” Mathematische Zeitschrift, Vol. 72 (1960), pp. 446–457] used a tower of equivalence relations on the edge set E(G) of a connected graph G to decompose G into a Cartesian product of prime graphs. Later, a method by R.L. Graham and P.M. Winkler [“On Isometric Embeddings of Graphs,” Transactions of the American Mathematics Society, Vol. 288 (1985), pp. 527–533] of embedding a connected graph isometrically into Cartesian products opened another approach to this problem. In both approaches an equivalence relation σ that determines the prime factorization is constructed. The methods differ by the starting relations used. We show that σ can be obtained as the convex hull of the starting relation used by Sabidussi. Our result also holds for the relation determining the prime decomposition of infinite connected graphs with respect to the weak Cartesian product. Moreover, we show that this relation is the transitive closure of the union of the starting relations of Sabidussi and Winkler [“Factoring a Graph in Polynomial Time,” European Journal of Combinatorics, Vol. 8 (1987), pp. 209–212], thereby generalizing the result of T. Feder [“Product Graph Representations,” Journal of Graph Theory, Vol 16 (1993), pp. 467–488] from finite to infinite graphs.
A case report of intraoperative retroorbital fluid dissection after frontal mini‐trephine placement
Authors: Andrews Jamie N. , Lopez Manuel A. , Weitzel Erik K.
Published: June 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

We report a case of a 24‐year‐old male with a history of allergic fungal sinusitis, who experienced an intraoperative retro‐orbital fluid dissection after frontal mini‐trephine placement. Although mini‐trephination of the frontal sinus is a useful technique that is frequently employed during endoscopic sinus surgery, it has potential complications. The purpose of this report is to discuss a previously unreported complication of frontal mini‐trephination and its management. Laryngoscope, 123:2969–2971, 2013
Merkel cell carcinoma of the head and neck: Potential histopathologic predictors
Authors: Haerle Stephan K. , Shiau Carolyn , Goldstein David P. , Qiu Xin , Erovic Boban M. , Ghazarian Danny , Xu Wei , Irish Jonathan C.
Published: June 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To identify or confirm any new or suggested independent histopathological predictors in Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) of the head and neck (HN) correlated with outcome.

Study Design

Retrospective chart and pathology review.

Methods

Between 1990 and 2010, 58 patients with Merkel cell carcinoma of the head and neck HNMCC were identified for study. Pathologic specimens were reviewed and evaluated for independent prognostic factors and correlated with locoregional recurrence and disease‐specific survival.

Results

The 2‐ and 5‐year disease‐specific survival (DSS) rates were 72.7% and 63.6%, respectively. The local and regional recurrence rates were 12.0% and 24.1%, respectively. A total of 25.9% of the patients developed distant metastases during follow‐up. Tumor size (< 1 cm vs. > 1 cm) and the presence of a positive deep resection margin were independently found to be significantly associated with regional recurrence (P = 0.01 and P = 0.04, respectively). No other prognostic factors could be identified.

Conclusion

Adjuvant radiotherapy cannot remediate a positive resection margin. Given these results, consideration for revision surgery should be considered for a positive deep margin. Frozen section analysis may help to define the margins in this invasive and aggressive disease.

Level of Evidence

2b. Laryngoscope, 123:3043–3048, 2013
Extra‐esophageal Reflux, NOSE score, and sleep quality in an adult clinic population
Authors: Laohasiriwong Supawan , Johnston Nikki , Woodson B. Tucker
Published: June 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Gastroesophageal reflux disease and heartburn negatively impact sleep; the impact of extraesophageal reflux (EER) symptoms on sleep is unknown. This study's goal was to evaluate the association of EER and measures of nasal obstruction, mood, insomnia, hypersomnia, and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) risk.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Tertiary care hospital.

Subjects and Methods

A prospective cohort of adult patients was evaluated using validated questionnaires for insomnia (PSQI), hypersomnia (ESS), OSA risk (STOP‐Bang), sleep quality of life (FOSQ‐10), EER reflux symptoms (RSI), nasal symptoms (NOSE), and measures of mood (HADA). Pharyngeal saliva samples underwent Western blot immunoassay for pepsin.

Results

Ninety‐three adults (mean age 50.2 ± 15.2 years, 43% female) were evaluated. Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) was elevated in 32% of patients and significant heartburn symptoms were reported in only 12% of patients. Prevalence of pepsin (+) was 27%. Both RSI and NOSE were significantly associated with sleep measures related to insomnia (r = 0.48 and r = 0.50; P < 0.001, respectively), Quality of Life (QOL) (r = 0.30 and r = 0.34; P < 0.001, respectively), and hypersomnolance (r = 0.18 and P < 0.04; r = 0.29 and P < 0.01, respectively), but not apnea risk (all P < 0.05). Nasal symptoms and mood were associated with all non‐OSA sleep metrics (r = 0.24). In multivariate analysis, both NOSE and RSI remained significantly associated with sleep measures.

Conclusions

Insomnia, hypersomnia, and sleep QOL are associated with measures of EER, nasal symptoms, and mood but not OSA risk, supporting that disrupted sleep may be associated with EER and nasal symptoms independent of sleep apnea.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 123:3233–3238, 2013
Mentor‐Leaders
Authors: Bell Chip R. , Goldsmith Marshall
Published: June 2013

Mentor‐leaders, according to Bell and Goldsmith, are a new breed that is especially suited to the challenges of 21st‐century leadership. They make learning a competitive strategy for their companies, and they can be thought of as “change allies, not just change advocates.” They should be role models, as the authors write: “Mentor‐leaders must be first and foremost active and zealous learners.” Mentor‐leaders at such companies as Marriott and Lockheed are profiled; they model such behaviors as sincere curiosity, providing inspiration and helping to develop both the personal and professional growth of their associates.
Key Structural Features of Azanaphthoquinone Annelated Pyrrole Derivative as Anticancer Agents Based on the Rational Drug Design Approaches
Authors: Kamsri Pharit , Punkvang Auradee , Pongprom Nipawan , Srisupan Apinya , Saparpakorn Patchreenart , Hannongbua Supa , Wolschann Peter , Pungpo Pornpan
Published: June 2013

Azanaphthoquinone annelated pyrrole derivatives have been developed and synthesized with a continuous attempt to develop novel DNA intercalating agents as anti‐cancer compounds with lower organ toxicity. With the remarkable antiproliferative activity of synthesized azanaphthoquinone annelated pyrrole derivatives, a structurally novel scaffold of these compounds is appropriated for further development of novel anti‐cancer agents. Therefore, in the present study, 3D QSAR study (CoMSIA) was applied on 28 azanaphthoquinone annelated pyrrole derivatives to evaluate the structural requirement of these compounds. The resulting CoMSIA model is satisfied with r2 of 0.99 and q2 of 0.65. The interpretation of CoMSIA contours reveals the significant importance of steric, electrostatic, hydrophobic and hydrogen acceptor descriptors on the activities of azanaphthoquinone annelated pyrrole derivatives. Remarkably, the structural requirement of six substituent positions on the azanaphthoquinone annelated pyrrole scaffold was elucidated here. This result is the useful concept for design of new and more active azanaphthoquinone annelated pyrrole derivatives. Moreover, MD simulations using AMBER program were performed to model the binding of azanaphthoquinone annelated pyrrole derivatives in the intercalation site of the DNA duplex. Based on MD simulations, the information in terms of ligand‐DNA interaction, complex structure and binding free energy was provided in this work. Therefore, the integrated results are informative for further modification of azanaphthoquinone annelated pyrrole scaffold leading to gain novel azanaphthoquinone annelated pyrrole derivatives possessing better antiproliferative activity.
Autogrammjäger der anderen Art
Authors: Osterath Brigitte
Published: June 2013

Der japanische Chemiker Tetsuo Nozoe hat über vier Jahrzehnte weltweit von Fachkollegen Unterschriften und Kommentare gesammelt. Wiley‐VCH veröffentlicht seine Sammlung jetzt im Internet. Jeder kann mithelfen, die Urheber der vielen tausend Einträge zu identifizieren.
Management of lower urinary tract dysfunction in multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and Turkish consensus report
Authors: Çetinel Bülent , Tarcan Tufan , Demirkesen Oktay , Özyurt Ceyhun , Şen İlker , Erdoğan Sarper , Siva Aksel
Published: June 2013

Aims

Since lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) related to multiple sclerosis (MS) has a different behavior pattern than other types of neurogenic voiding dysfunction, we aimed to prepare a national consensus report for the management of LUTD due to multiple sclerosis in light of available literature.

Methods

A search of available databases yielded an evidence base of 125 articles after the application of inclusion/exclusion criteria. When sufficient evidence existed, recommendations A (high), B (moderate), or C (low) were made according to the strength of evidence; recommendation D was provided when insufficient evidence existed.

Results

Available data did not support the use of invasive urodynamics in the initial evaluation of patients with MS and LUTD. Clinical studies on the safety and efficacy of antimuscarinics and alpha‐blockers in these patients were scarce and low quality. Desmopressin could be used in MS‐related overactive bladder symptoms owing to its short‐term effects as an adjunctive treatment. Intravesical botulinum toxin type A treatment in patients with MS and detrusor overactivity was recommended in cases of medical treatment failure or severe side effects due to antimuscarinics. Pelvic floor rehabilitation together with neuromuscular electrical stimulation was also recommended as it increased symptomatic treatment success. This systematic review was not able to find any evidence‐based cut off post‐void residual value for the recommendation to start clean intermittent catheterization in MS‐related LUTD.

Conclusions

Patients with MS and LUTD could be best managed through the use of this consensus report. Neurourol. Urodynam. 32:1047–1057, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diagnostic power of the noninvasive condom catheter method in patients eligible for transurethral resection of the prostate
Authors: van Mastrigt Ron , de Zeeuw Sandra , Boevé Egbert R. , Groen Jan
Published: June 2013

Aims

The aim of this study was to determine the accuracy of the non‐invasive condom catheter method for diagnosing B(ladder) O(utlet) O(bstruction) in patients eligible for T(rans)U(rethral) R(esection) of the P(rostate).

Methods

A group of 71 patients eligible for TURP on clinical grounds were invasively and non‐invasively studied. On the basis of invasive pressure‐flow studies they were stratified into obstructed, equivocal or unobstructed, according to the International Continence Society standard. Subsequently they were diagnosed non‐invasively on the basis of a free flowrate measurement, or on the basis of the free flowrate measurement plus the isovolumetric bladder pressure measured with the condom catheter method. R(eceiver) O(perating) C(haracteristic)s were calculated.

Results

The A(rea) U(nder) the (RO)C for discriminating unobstructed/equivocal patients from obstructed patients was 0.68 in our population. This improved to 0.84 for the 50 patients in whom the isovolumetric bladder pressure was not underestimated by the non‐invasive method.

Conclusions

In our population of TURP patients, the low flowrates affected the accuracy of the condom method to a degree that it did not perform better than a free flowrate measurement, which performed remarkably well. By excluding measurements in which the condom pressure underestimated the isovolumetric bladder pressure this method may contribute to a more accurate, patient friendly diagnosis of BOO in these patients. In the present study this exclusion was done by comparison with an invasive pressure measurement. A practical non‐invasive test would necessitate a non‐invasive exclusion criterion, which might be based on the risetime of the condom pressure. Neurourol. Urodynam. 33:408–413, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pre‐ and postoperative evaluation of pelvic floor muscle function in POP patients using surface electromyography and digital palpation
Authors: Chen Xinliang , Gong Yao , Wu Dan , Li Xiaocui , Li Huaifang , Tong Xiaowen , Cheng Weiwei
Published: June 2013

Aims

The study aims to evaluate the pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function in patients with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) pre‐ and postoperatively using digital palpation and surface electromyography.

Methods

In this non‐randomized prospective study, two groups of patients were recruited for assessment. The surgical group included 74 POP patients receiving the modified pelvic reconstructive surgery and the control group consisted of 30 non‐POP patients. One physiotherapist conducted the digital palpation and SEMG evaluation. The scale of PFM strength, the duration and voltage of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) as well as numbers and voltage of short, fast contractions (SFC) by SEMG were documented and compared in both groups. For statistical analysis, t‐test, Mann–Whitney U test and Wilcoxon test were used with a significant level 0.05.

Results

A total of 68 POP patients finished the two follow‐ups. Sixty‐four patients were objectively cured with a 94.1% cure rate. Mesh erosions happened in three patients (4.8%). By digital palpation, the PFM strength increased significantly in POP patients after surgery but still lower than non‐POP patients (P < 0.001). By SEMG, the electrical activity of PFM increased significantly in the surgical group postoperatively (P 0.001).

Conclusion

The PFM function was improved 3 months after the modified pelvic reconstructive surgery in POP patients based on digital palpation and SEMG. The evaluation of PFM function should be included in the overall assessment of pelvic reconstructive surgeries. Neurourol. Urodynam. 33:403–407, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
δ13C and δ15N Variability in Modern Guanaco (Lama guanicoe) Assemblages in Southern Patagonia: Implications for Zooarchaeological Studies
Authors: Tessone A. , Rindel D. , Belardi J. B. , Panarello H. O. , Goñi R. A.
Published: June 2013

We study the isotopic variability of modern social groups of guanacos (Lama guanicoe) and discuss the implications of these results for the analysis of archaeofaunas from archaeological sites of Patagonia. The aim of this work is to evaluate whether the study of the isotope composition of carbon and nitrogen from collagen (δ13C and δ15N) is a methodology that allows the discussion of hunting strategies – individual versus mass – carried out by human populations in this particular case of the guanaco from southern Patagonia. Samples come from five modern assemblages of guanacos located in the west margin of the Cardiel Lake and are the result of a catastrophic mortality episode produced by winter stress. The isotopic variability of these samples is compared with that of a mesoregional attritional assemblage built from multiple sites and chronologies. The results indicate, in the first place, that there is no differentiation between males and females, second, that the offspring show no increase of signals when compared to the other age categories and finally, juveniles recorded the lowest δ15N values. In relation to the main purpose of this research, measurements of variability from modern assemblages and the attritional groups have been compared. The three assemblages with lower variability are modern ones. However, the two remaining modern assemblages record a variability higher than or equal to the attritional groups. Thus, for southern Patagonian guanacos, the hypothesis that proposes that the isotopic variability of a herd would be lower than the one obtained from multiple populations and different hunting events is rejected. Finally, we analyze the possible causes for these results together with situations in which δ13C and δ15N can be used in the study of the guanaco hunting strategies in southern Patagonia. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Food reinforcement partially mediates the effect of socioeconomic status on body mass index
Authors: Lin Henry , Carr Katelyn A. , Fletcher Kelly D. , Epstein Leonard H.
Published: June 2013

Objective

Low socioeconomic status (low SES), as defined by income or educational attainment, has been associated with obesity in industrialized nations. Low SES persons have limited resources and may experience food insecurity that increases food reinforcement. Food reinforcement has been positively related to energy intake and weight status, and increased food reinforcement may explain the higher prevalence of obesity among low SES individuals who have restricted access to low‐energy‐dense foods and nonfood reinforcers.

Design and Methods

Annual household income, highest education level completed and food reinforcement in 166 adults of varying body mass index (BMI, kg m−2) was measured.

Results

Multivariate linear regression analyses controlling for age, sex, minority status, session hunger, and the reinforcing value of nonfood alternatives showed that household income was related to food reinforcement (P = 0.048) and BMI (P = 0.019), and that food reinforcement was related to BMI (P = 0.0017). Path analyses revealed a significant indirect effect of household income on BMI through food reinforcement, suggesting that the relationship between lower household income and greater BMI was mediated in part by increased food reinforcement. A similar pattern of results was observed when education level was used as the proxy for SES.

Conclusions

These findings support the hypothesis that deprivation and restricted food choice associated with low SES enhance food reinforcement, increasing the risk for obesity.
Activation of adipose tissue macrophages in obese mice does not require lymphocytes
Authors: Behan James W. , Ehsanipour Ehsan A. , Sheng Xia , Pramanik Rocky , Wang Xingchao , Hsieh Yao‐Te , Kim Yong‐Mi , Mittelman Steven D.
Published: June 2013

Objective

Macrophages which infiltrate adipose tissue and secrete proinflammatory cytokines may be responsible for obesity‐induced insulin resistance. However, the reason why macrophages migrate into adipose tissue and become activated remains unknown though some studies suggest that this may be regulated by T and B lymphocytes. In this study, it has been tested whether T and B lymphocytes and natural killer (NK) cells were necessary for the obesity‐induced activation of macrophages in adipose tissue.

Design and Methods

NOD/SCID/IL2‐receptor gamma‐chain knockout (NSG) mice, which lack mature T and B lymphocytes and NK cells, were made obese by selectively reducing litters and weaning onto a high‐fat diet. Mice were then maintained on the diet for 10–11 weeks.

Results

Adipose tissue from obese NSG mice had more activated macrophages than nonobese mice. These macrophages were found in “crown‐like structures” surrounding adipocytes, and expressed higher levels of the inflammatory cytokine TNF‐α. However, obesity did not impair glucose tolerance in the NSG mice.

Conclusions

These studies demonstrated that T and B lymphocytes and NK cells are not necessary for adipose tissue macrophage activation in obese mice. T and B lymphocytes and/or NK cells may be necessary for the development of obesity‐induced impaired glucose tolerance.
Male adiposity impairs clinical pregnancy rate by in vitro fertilization without affecting day 3 embryo quality
Authors: Merhi Zaher O. , Keltz Julia , Zapantis Athena , Younger Joshua , Berger Dara , Lieman Harry J. , Jindal Sangita K. , Polotsky Alex J.
Published: June 2013

Objective

Male adiposity is detrimental for achieving clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) following assisted reproductive technologies (ART). The hypothesis that the association of male adiposity with decreased success following ART is mediated by worse embryo quality was tested.

Design and Methods

Retrospective study including 344 infertile couples undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles was performed. Cycle determinants included number of oocytes retrieved, zygote PN‐score, total number of embryos available on day 3, number of embryos transferred, composite day 3 grade for transferred embryos, composite day 3 grade per cycle, and CPR.

Results

Couples with male body mass index (BMI) over 25 kg m−2 (overweight and obese) exhibited significantly lower CPR compared to their normal weight counterparts (46.7% vs. 32.0% respectively, P = 0.02). No significant difference was observed for any embryo quality metrics when analyzed by male BMI: mean zygote PN‐scores, mean composite day 3 grades for transferred embryos or composite day 3 grades per cycle. In a multivariable logistic regression analysis adjusting for female age, female BMI, number of embryos transferred and sperm concentration, male BMI over 25 kg m−2 was associated with a lower chance for CPR after IVF (OR = 0.17 [95% CI: 0.04‐0.65]; P = 0.01) but not after ICSI cycles (OR = 0.88 [95% CI: 0.41‐1.88]; P = 0.75). In this cohort, male adiposity was associated with decreased CPR following IVF but embryo quality was not affected.

Conclusions

Embryo grading based on conventional morphologic criteria does not explain the poorer clinical pregnancy outcomes seen in couples with overweight or obese male partner.
Imaging mass spectrometry for assessing temporal proteomics: Analysis of calprotectin in Acinetobacter baumannii pulmonary infection
Authors: Moore Jessica L. , Becker Kyle W. , Nicklay Joshua J. , Boyd Kelli L. , Skaar Eric P. , Caprioli Richard M.
Published: June 2013

Imaging MS is routinely used to show spatial localization of proteins within a tissue sample and can also be employed to study temporal protein dynamics. The antimicrobial S100 protein calprotectin, a heterodimer of subunits S100A8 and S100A9, is an abundant cytosolic component of neutrophils. Using imaging MS, calprotectin can be detected as a marker of the inflammatory response to bacterial challenge. In a murine model of Acinetobacter baumannii pneumonia, protein images of S100A8 and S100A9 collected at different time points throughout infection aid in visualization of the innate immune response to this pathogen. Calprotectin is detectable within 6 h of infection as immune cells respond to the invading pathogen. As the bacterial burden decreases, signals from the inflammatory proteins decrease. Calprotectin is no longer detectable 96–144 h post infection, correlating to a lack of detectable bacterial burden in lungs. These experiments provide a label‐free, multiplexed approach to study host response to a bacterial threat and eventual clearance of the pathogen over time.
Rabbit muscle proteomics: A great leap forward
Authors: de Almeida André Martinho
Published: June 2013

The rabbit is an important species as both a production animal and as a model organism in physiology, pharmaceutical, and numerous other studies. Similar to other species, the rabbit skeletal muscle proteome has been characterized, first using 2DE mapping and more recently using high‐throughput shotgun proteomics. This article is a commentary on “Shotgun proteomics analysis of the sarcoplasmic reticulum preparations from rabbit skeletal muscle” (Z. Liu et al., Proteomics, 2013, 13, 2335–2338). Herein, we present the reasons why the manuscript is of high relevance to three major fields: farm animal, rabbit, and muscle/meat proteomics.
Steric effects and mechanism in the formation of hemi‐acetals from aliphatic aldehydes
Authors: Daw Graham , Regan Andrew C. , Watt C. Ian F. , Wood Evan
Published: June 2013

Some physical properties (pKa, log POW, boiling points) of hexanoic acid 1 (X = COOH) and its seven isomers 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 (X = COOH) are reported.

Hexanal 1 (X = CHO) and its seven isomeric aldehydes 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 (X = CHO) are shown to equilibrate, in methanol solution, with their hemi‐acetals. Logarithms of equilibrium constants correlate with values of Es for the isomeric C5H11 substituents, and with logs of relative rates for saponification of the corresponding methyl esters with ρ = 0.52, reflecting the reduced steric demand of hydrogen compared to oxygen in the quaternization of ester and aldehydic carbonyl groups. Rates of equilibration have also been measured in buffered methanol. For hexanal, with a 2:1 Et3N:AcOH buffer, the buffer‐independent contribution is dominated by the methoxide catalysed pathway. Rates in this medium have been determined for isomers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 (X = CHO), and their logarithms do not correlate with logarithms of equilibrium constants for hemi‐acetal formation or with substituent steric parameters derived from ester formation or saponification, indicating that the steric changes associated with full quaternization of the carbonyl group are not mirrored in the transition structures for hemi‐acetal formation. It is suggested that transition states for hemi‐acetal formation are relatively early so that steric interactions are effectively those between the nucleophile and ground state conformations of the aldehydes. A comparison of the entropies of hemi‐acetal formation with entropies of activation has provided a basis for a suggested transition structure. Comparisons with acid chloride hydrolyses are made. © 2013 The Authors. Journal of Physical Organic Chemistry published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Phosgene‐free synthesis of polypeptides: Useful synthesis for hydrophobic polypeptides through polycondensation of activated urethane derivatives of α‐amino acids
Authors: Yamada Shuhei , Koga Koichi , Sudo Atsushi , Goto Mitsuaki , Endo Takeshi
Published: June 2013

We report a useful synthetic method of polypeptides using a series of urethane derivative of α‐amino acids (l‐leucine, l‐phenylalanine, l‐valine, l‐alanine, l‐isoleucine, l‐methionine), which are readily synthesized by N‐carbamoylation of tetrabutylammonium salts of α‐amino acids with diphenyl carbonate. Heating these urethane derivatives in N,N‐dimethylacetamide in the presence of n‐butylamine successfully gave the corresponding polypeptides with well‐defined structures through polycondensation with the elimination of phenol and CO2. The matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry investigation showed that the resulting polypeptides had an n‐BuNH2‐incorporated initiating end and an amino group at propagating end. These results strongly indicated that primary amines served as an initiator in this polycondensation system. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2013, 51, 3726–3731