bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Migrating songbirds on stopover prepare for, and recover from, oxidative challenges posed by long‐distance flight
Authors: Skrip Megan M. , Bauchinger Ulf , Goymann Wolfgang , Fusani Leonida , Cardinale Massimiliano , Alan Rebecca R. , McWilliams Scott R.
Published: July 2015

Managing oxidative stress is an important physiological function for all aerobic organisms, particularly during periods of prolonged high metabolic activity, such as long‐distance migration across ecological barriers. However, no previous study has investigated the oxidative status of birds at different stages of migration and whether that oxidative status depends on the condition of the birds. In this study, we compared (1) energy stores and circulating oxidative status measures in (a) two species of Neotropical migrants with differing migration strategies that were sampled at an autumn stopover site before an ecological barrier; and (b) a species of trans‐Saharan migrant sampled at a spring stopover site after crossing an ecological barrier; and (2) circulating oxidative measures and indicators of fat metabolism in a trans‐Saharan migrant after stopovers of varying duration (0–8 nights), based on recapture records. We found fat stores to be positively correlated with circulating antioxidant capacity in Blackpoll Warblers and Red‐eyed Vireos preparing for fall migration on Block Island, USA, but uncorrelated in Garden Warblers on the island of Ponza, Italy, after a spring crossing of the Sahara Desert and Mediterranean Sea. In all circumstances, fat stores were positively correlated with circulating lipid oxidation levels. Among Garden Warblers on the island of Ponza, fat anabolism increased with stopover duration while oxidative damage levels decreased. Our study provides evidence that birds build antioxidant capacity as they build fat stores at stopover sites before long flights, but does not support the idea that antioxidant stores remain elevated in birds with high fuel levels after an ecological barrier. Our results further suggest that lipid oxidation may be an inescapable hazard of using fats as the primary fuel for flight. Yet, we also show that birds on stopover are capable of recovering from the oxidative damage they have accrued during migration, as lipid oxidation levels decrease with time on stopover. Thus, the physiological strategy of migrating songbirds may be to build prophylactic antioxidant capacity in concert with fuel stores at stopover sites before a long‐distance flight, and then repair oxidative damage while refueling at stopover sites after long‐distance flight.
Night‐time electromechanical activation time, pulsatile hemodynamics, and discharge outcomes in patients with acute heart failure
Authors: Chang Chun‐Chin , Sung Shih‐Hsien , Yu Wen‐Chung , Cheng Hao‐Min , Chen Chen‐Huan
Published: July 2015

Aims

Both electromechanical activation time (EMAT) and pulsatile hemodynamics measured during the hospitalization course are useful in the prediction of cardiovascular outcomes in patients with acute heart failure syndrome (AHFS). We investigated whether night‐time monitoring of EMAT with the ambulatory acoustic cardiography is superior to the measures of pulsatile hemodynamics for prediction of AHFS post‐discharge outcomes.

Methods and results

A total of 97 patients (71.1 ± 15.4 years old, 81% male, and 73.8% systolic heart failure) hospitalized for AHFS were included. Before discharge, 24 h ambulatory acoustic cardiography and a comprehensive echocardiographic and pulsatile hemodynamic study were performed to assess the mean 24 h, daytime, and night‐time EMAT, carotid systolic blood pressure (SBP) and pulse pressure (PP), amplitude of the reflected pressure wave from a decomposed carotid pressure wave (Pb), and carotid–femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV), in addition to measurement of N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) levels. During a mean follow‐up of 389 ± 281 days, 49 patients (50.5%) experienced events including re‐hospitalization for heart failure, myocardial infarction, stroke, or death. Pulsatile hemodynamics, including carotid SBP and PP and Pb, but not cfPWV, and night‐time EMAT, but not daytime EMAT, significantly predicted post‐discharge events when age and NT‐proBNP were accounted for (all P < 0.05). In a final model with adjustment for age and NT‐proBNP, night‐time EMAT, but not Pb, significantly predicted post‐discharge events [hazard ratio per 1 SD and 95% confidence intervals: 1.33 (1.05–1.69), P < 0.05].

Conclusion

Pre‐discharge night‐time EMAT may be a better predictor for post‐discharge adverse events than the measures of the pulsatile hemodynamics in patients with AHFS.
The impact of cisplatinum‐based chemotherapy on ventricular function and cardiovascular risk factors in female survivors after malignant germ cell cancer
Authors: Murbraech Klaus , Solheim Olesya , Aulie Hanne M. , Fossa Sophie D. , Aakhus Svend
Published: July 2015

Aims

Among male cancer survivors, cisplatinum‐based chemotherapy (CBCT) is associated with impaired left ventricle (LV) diastolic function, increased risk of metabolic syndrome, and increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Comparable data in females are limited. The long‐term effects of cisplatin on right ventricle (RV) function are unknown in both genders. We aimed to investigate the impact of CBCT on cardiovascular risk factors and cardiac function in female survivors after malignant ovarian germ cell tumour (MOGCT).

Methods and results

This national cross‐sectional follow‐up study recruited MOGCT survivors, diagnosed from 1980–09 (n = 153). Seventy‐four (48%) participated in out‐patient visit, of whom 41 had received CBCT (62% of all CBCT): median age, 35 years (range, 18–64 years); median time since CBCT, 14 years (range, 5–31 years). Participants were categorized into high‐CBCT (n = 19) and low‐CBCT (n = 22) groups and compared with age‐matched healthy females. All participants underwent laboratory tests and echocardiography to determine cardiac function. Compared with low‐CBCT participants, the high‐CBCT group showed significantly impaired RV function, as evaluated by tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (22.6 ± 2.4 mm vs. 26.3 ± 3.6 mm; P < 0.001); RV S' (10.7 ± 1.9 cm/s vs. 12.4 ± 2.3 cm/s; P = 0.01); RV global longitudinal strain (−23.4 ± 2.4% vs. −25.7 ± 3.7%; P = 0.02), and tricuspid annular displacement (21 ± 2 mm vs. 24 ± 3 mm; P = 0.001). LV diastolic function was impaired in the high‐CBCT group compared with controls. Patients and controls exhibited similar metabolic syndrome prevalences.

Conclusions

Among long‐term survivors of MOGCT, CBCT was associated with impaired RV function and LV diastolic function. Unlike men, women do not appear to have an elevated risk of metabolic syndrome after CBCT.
The expression of mouse CLEC‐2 on leucocyte subsets varies according to their anatomical location and inflammatory state
Authors: Lowe Kate L. , Navarro‐Núñez Leyre , Bénézech Cécile , Nayar Saba , Kingston Bethany L. , Nieswandt Bernhard , Barone Francesca , Watson Steve P. , Buckley Christopher D. , Desanti Guillaume E.
Published: July 2015

Expression of mouse C‐type lectin‐like receptor 2 (CLEC‐2) has been reported on circulating CD11bhigh Gr‐1high myeloid cells and dendritic cells (DCs) under basal conditions, as well as on a variety of leucocyte subsets following inflammatory stimuli or in vitro cell culture. However, previous studies assessing CLEC‐2 expression failed to use CLEC‐2‐deficient mice as negative controls and instead relied heavily on single antibody clones. Here, we generated CLEC‐2‐deficient adult mice using two independent approaches and employed two anti‐mouse CLEC‐2 antibody clones to investigate surface expression on hematopoietic cells from peripheral blood and secondary lymphoid organs. We rule out constitutive CLEC‐2 expression on resting DCs and show that CLEC‐2 is upregulated in response to LPS‐induced systemic inflammation in a small subset of activated DCs isolated from the mesenteric lymph nodes but not the spleen. Moreover, we demonstrate for the first time that peripheral blood B lymphocytes present exogenously derived CLEC‐2 and suggest that both circulating B lymphocytes and CD11bhigh Gr‐1high myeloid cells lose CLEC‐2 following entry into secondary lymphoid organs. These results have significant implications for our understanding of CLEC‐2 physiological functions
Ablation of Wntless in endosteal niches impairs lymphopoiesis rather than HSCs maintenance
Authors: Cao Jingjing , Zhang Lingling , Wan Yong , Li Hanjun , Zhou Rujiang , Ding Heyuan , Liu Yongzhong , Yao Zhengju , Guo Xizhi
Published: July 2015

Osteoblasts and perivascular stromal cells constitute essential niches for HSC self‐renewal and maintenance in the bone marrow. Wnt signaling is important to maintain HSC integrity. However, the paracrine role of Wnt proteins in osteoblasts‐supported HSC maintenance and differentiation remains unclear. Here, we investigated hematopoiesis in mice with Wntless (Wls) deficiency in osteoblasts or Nestin‐positive mesenchymal progenitor cells, which presumptively block Wnt secretion in osteoblasts. We detected defective B‐cell lymphopoiesis and abnormal T‐cell infiltration in the bone marrow of Wls mutant mice. Notably, no impact on HSC frequency and repopulation in the bone marrow was observed with the loss of osteoblastic Wls. Our findings revealed a supportive role of Wnts in osteoblasts‐regulated B‐cell lymphopoiesis. They also suggest a preferential niche role of osteoblastic Wnts for lymphoid cells rather than HSCs, providing new clues for the molecular nature of distinct niches occupied by different hematopoietic cells.
Hematopoietic plakophilin‐3 regulates acute tissue‐specific and systemic inflammation in mice
Authors: Sklyarova Tatyana , van Hengel Jolanda , Van Wonterghem Elien , Libert Claude , van Roy Frans , Vandenbroucke Roosmarijn E.
Published: July 2015

Plakophilin‐3 (PKP3) is a member of the armadillo protein family, which is important in cell−cell contacts and signaling during development and tumorigenesis. In conventional facilities, PKP3‐deficient mice (PKP3−/−) develop spontaneous dermatitis, indicating a possible involvement of PKP3 in inflammatory responses. Here, we show that PKP3 deficiency sensitizes mice to irritant contact dermatitis induced by phorbol myristate acetate (PMA). This sensitization occurred in mice with PKP3 deficiency in the hematopoietic system (PKP3−/−hem), but not if the deficiency was specific to skin keratinocytes (PKP3−/−ker). In a model of dextran sulfate sodium induced colitis, ubiquitous PKP3 deletion, but not intestinal epithelial PKP3 deficiency (PKP3−/−IEC), impaired survival from disease. Interestingly, PKP3−/−hem mice also displayed increased sensitivity to dextran sulfate sodium induced colitis. Finally, PKP3−/− mice were more sensitive to the lethality of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection than wild‐type (WT) mice, and this phenotype was associated with increased intestinal permeability. PKP3−/−IEC mice did not reproduce the enhanced endotoxin reactivity of PKP3−/− mice, in contrast to PKP3−/−hem mice. Finally, in vitro stimulation of WT neutrophils with LPS or PMA increased Pkp3 expression.

In conclusion, our data highlight a novel role for hematopoietic PKP3 in the regulation of both locally and systemically induced immune responses. Nonetheless, further research is needed to unravel the underlying mechanism.
TIGIT expression levels on human NK cells correlate with functional heterogeneity among healthy individuals
Authors: Wang Feng , Hou Hongyan , Wu Shiji , Tang Qing , Liu Weiyong , Huang Min , Yin Botao , Huang Jing , Mao Lie , Lu Yanfang , Sun Ziyong
Published: July 2015

Human NK cells display extensive phenotypic and functional heterogeneity among healthy individuals, but the mechanism responsible for this variation is still largely unknown. Here, we show that a novel immune receptor, T‐cell immunoglobulin and ITIM domain (TIGIT), is expressed preferentially on human NK cells but shows wide variation in its expression levels among healthy individuals. We found that the TIGIT expression level is related to the phenotypic and functional heterogeneity of NK cells, and that NK cells from healthy individuals can be divided into three categories according to TIGIT expression. NK cells with low levels of TIGIT expression show higher cytokine secretion capability, degranulation activity, and cytotoxic potential than NK cells with high levels of TIGIT expression. Blockade of the TIGIT pathway significantly increased NK‐cell function, particularly in NK cells with high levels of TIGIT expression. We further observed that the TIGIT expression level was inversely correlated with the IFN‐γ secretion capability of NK cells in patients with cancers and autoimmune diseases. Importantly, we propose a novel mechanism that links TIGIT expression with NK‐cell functional heterogeneity, and this mechanism might partially explain why individuals have different susceptibilities to infection, autoimmune disease, and cancer.
Caspase‐4 mediates non‐canonical activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome in human myeloid cells
Authors: Schmid‐Burgk Jonathan L. , Gaidt Moritz M. , Schmidt Tobias , Ebert Thomas S. , Bartok Eva , Hornung Veit
Published: July 2015

Inflammasome activation culminates in activation of caspase‐1, which leads to the maturation and subsequent release of cytokines of the interleukin 1 (IL‐1) family and results in a particular form of cell death known as pyroptosis. In addition, in the murine system, a so‐called non‐canonical inflammasome involving caspase‐11 has been described that directly responds to cytosolic LPS. Here, we show that the human monocytic cell line THP1 activates the inflammasome in response to cytosolic LPS in a TLR4‐independent fashion. This response is mediated by caspase‐4 and accompanied by caspase‐1 activation, pyroptosis, and IL‐1β maturation. In addition to caspase‐4, efficient IL‐1β conversion upon intracellular LPS delivery relies on potassium efflux, NLRP3, ASC, and caspase‐1, indicating that although caspase‐4 activation alone is sufficient to induce pyroptosis, this process depends on the NLRP3 inflammasome activation to drive IL‐1β maturation. Altogether, this study provides evidence for the presence of a non‐canonical inflammasome in humans and its dependence on caspase‐4.
Caspase‐11 activates a canonical NLRP3 inflammasome by promoting K+ efflux
Authors: Rühl Sebastian , Broz Petr
Published: July 2015

Recognition of microbe‐associated molecular patterns or endogenous danger signals by a subset of cytosolic PRRs results in the assembly of multiprotein signaling complexes, the so‐called inflammasomes. Canonical inflammasomes are assembled by NOD‐like receptor (NLR) or PYHIN family members and activate caspase‐1, which promotes the induction of pyroptosis and the release of mature interleukin‐1β/‐18. Recently, a noncanonical inflammasome pathway was discovered that results in caspase‐11 activation in response to bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in the cytosol. Interestingly, caspase‐11 induces pyroptosis by itself, but requires NLRP3, the inflammasome adapter ASC, and caspase‐1 to promote cytokine secretion. Here, we have studied the mechanism by which caspase‐11 controls IL‐1β secretion. Investigating NLRP3/ASC complex formation, we find that caspase‐11 functions upstream of a canonical NLRP3 inflammasome. The activation of NLRP3 by caspase‐11 during LPS transfection is a cell‐intrinsic process and is independent of the release of danger signals. Furthermore, we show that active caspase‐11 leads to a drop of intracellular potassium levels, which is necessary to activate NLRP3. Our study, therefore, sheds new light on the mechanism of noncanonical inflammasome signaling.
Dual identity, in‐group projection, and out‐group feelings among ethnic minority groups
Authors: Verkuyten Maykel , Martinovic Borja
Published: July 2015

This study extends research on dual identity and in‐group projection by considering category prototypicality and indispensability, and by focusing on ethnic minority members and their attitudes towards the native majority and minority out‐groups. Among a sample of 491 participants of the three largest immigrant‐origin groups in the Netherlands, it was found that the minority in‐group was seen as relatively more prototypical and relatively more indispensable for the national category in comparison with minority out‐groups, but not in comparison with the native majority. In support of the in‐group projection model, stronger dual identity was associated with higher relative in‐group prototypicality and relative in‐group indispensability in comparison with the majority and, via both these relative perceptions, to a less positive attitude towards the native Dutch. In addition and in support of the common in‐group identity model, dual identity was associated with more positive minority out‐group feelings via higher minority out‐group prototypicality and indispensability. It is concluded that dual identity can have both positive and negative consequences for intergroup relations depending on perceived (relative) prototypicality and indispensability, and depending on whether the out‐group is the majority or other minorities.
Graphene‐Based Nanohybrids for Advanced Electrochemical Sensing
Authors: Li Fenghua , Gan Shiyu , Han Dongxue , Niu Li
Published: July 2015

A ‘gold rush’ has been triggered for functionalization of graphene and application of graphene‐based nanohybrids. The application fields involve physics, chemistry, biology and medicine as well as their interdisciplinarities. In this review, we highlight the recent progress of graphene based nanohybrids for electrochemical sensing applications toward a few representative biological analytes including DNA, glucose, dopamine, ascorbic acid, uric acid, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide and biological metal ions. The specific interactions of these substances with graphene and the transduction of target recognition are illustrated. Future challenges and prospects of graphene based nanohybrids applications in electrochemical sensing are discussed.
Voltammetric Behaviour of 7‐Methylguanine Using Screen‐printed Graphite Electrodes: towards a Guanine Methylation Electrochemical Sensor
Authors: Brotons Ariadna , Sanjuan Ignacio , Banks Craig E. , Vidal‐Iglesias Francisco José , Solla‐Gullón José , Iniesta Jesús
Published: July 2015

The determination of 7‐methylguanine (7mG) is an interesting analytical target since its quantification can be correlated with the methylation of cytosine which is one of the most relevant epigenetic modification of DNA. In this work, screen‐printed graphite electrodes were used to study the electrochemical characterization of 7mG by cyclic and square wave voltammetry. 7mG concentration and pH were examined, as well as the repeatability of the measurements. The electrochemical response of 7mG in the presence of guanine and adenine was also investigated. Results aim to the future development of an electrochemical sensor for the methylation degree in DNA.
TiO2‐modified Carbon Paste Electrode as a Sensor for the Assay of Weak Organic Acids/Bases and Complex Matrix Samples
Authors: Simić Zoran , Stanić Zorka D.
Published: July 2015

The construction, general performance characteristics and analytical application of a titanium dioxide–modified carbon paste electrode sensitive to hydrogen ions, based on incorporation of titanium dioxide in a carbon paste matrix, is described. The proposed electrochemical sensor exhibits a linear response in the pH range from 2 to 10, at 25 °C, with a sub‐Nernstian slope. The value of a slope is in a direct correlation with the electrode composition – the optimum content of a titanium dioxide in carbon paste is 30 %. Titanium dioxide‐modified carbon paste electrode shows fast response time and reproducibility, confirmed by different compounds determination in both, individual and complex material, namely, in synthetic and real samples. Besides, the electrode shows high selectivity in the presence of the alkali and the alkaline earth ions as Na+, K+, Ca2+or Mg2+. The standard deviation of the investigated acids (acetic, oxalic, 5‐sulfosalicylic,p‐toluensulfonic acid, and amino acid‐glycine) and bases (N,N′‐diphenylguanidine and collidine) is less than 1.3 %. The obtained data are compared with those obtained by using a conventional glass pH‐electrode under the same experimental conditions and indicate a high correlation between them.
An Electrochemical Sensor for Determination of Ultratrace Cd, Cu and Hg in Water Samples by Modified Carbon Paste Electrode Base on a New Schiff Base Ligand
Authors: Nourifard Farzaneh , Payehghadr Mahmood , Kalhor Mehdi , Nejadali Azizallah
Published: July 2015

This paper describes the preparation and electrochemical application of a new chemically modified electrode for simple and highly sensitive simultaneous determination of copper, mercury and cadmium using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). Firstly, a new bis‐Schiff base ligand, 2,2′‐((pyridine‐2,6‐diylbis (azanylylidene)) bis (methanylylidene))bis(4‐bromophenol) (ligand L) has been synthesized by reaction of the 2,6‐diamino pyridine with 5‐bromo salicylaldehyde or salicylaldehyde at ethanol under refluxing. The structure of the synthesized compound resulted from the IR, 1HNMR, MS, UV spectroscopy and elemental analysis data. Afterwards, a novel, simple and effective chemically modified carbon paste electrode with ligand L was prepared. The electrochemical properties and applications of the modified electrode, including the pH, percentage of modifier, the electron transfer, optimized conditions, linear response and detection limit were investigated. High sensitivity and reproducibility, together with the ease of preparation and regeneration of the electrode surface by simple polishing, make the electrode very suitable for the voltammetric determination of copper, mercury and cadmium in several Merck samples and water samples.
Determination of Total PSA Using Magnetic Beads and a Re‐usable Screen Printed Carbon Electrode Array
Authors: Biscay Julien , González García María Begoña , García Agustín Costa
Published: July 2015

A total PSA (tPSA) assay using magnetic beads (1 µm) and a re‐usable 8‐channel screen printed electrochemical array is here reported. The reaction scheme is based on a one step sandwich assay. The linear range obtained is comprised between 5 and 100 ng/mL of tPSA and have a limit of detection of 1.86 ng/mL. This methodology was validated, performing determination of tPSA in serum and the results were compared with a commercial ELISA kit.
Environmental metabolomics: Biological markers for metal toxicity
Authors: García‐Sevillano Miguel Ángel , García‐Barrera Tamara , Gómez‐Ariza José Luis
Published: July 2015

Environmental metabolomics is an emerging field referred to the application of metabolomics to characterize the interactions of living organisms with their environment. In this sense, the importance of monitoring the effects of toxic metals on living organisms has increased as a consequence of natural changes and anthropogenic activities that have led to an increase of toxic metal levels in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. For this purpose, the use of metabolomics based on MS to study metal toxicity is gaining importance in recent years. Environmental metabolomics can be used to: discover the mode of action (MOA) of toxic metals through controlled laboratory experiments; evaluate toxicity (biological adverse response to a substance), that may be useful in risk assessment; and develop new biomarkers (based in metabolome shifts discovered through controlled laboratory experiments) that may be applied in environmental biomonitoring (environmental realistic scenario). In this review, it is discussed how metabolomics based on MS can be applied to study metal toxicity, considering the most important hallmarks related to metabolomic experiments.
Development and validation of a HILIC‐MS/MS multitargeted method for metabolomics applications
Authors: Virgiliou Christina , Sampsonidis Ioannis , Gika Helen G. , Raikos Nikolaos , Theodoridis Georgios A.
Published: July 2015

The paper reports the development of a multianalyte method and its application in metabolic profiling of biological fluids. The initial aim of the method was the quantification of metabolites existing in cell culture medium used in in‐vitro fertilization (IVF) and in other biological fluids related to embryo growth. Since most of these analytes are polar primary metabolites a hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography system was selected. The analytical system comprised Ultra‐HPLC with detection on a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer operating in both positive and negative modes. Mobile phase and gradient elution conditions were studied with the aim to achieve the highest coverage of metabolic space in a single injection namely the largest number of analytes that could be detected and quantified. The developed method provides absolute quantitation of ca. 100 metabolites belonging to key metabolite classes such as sugars, aminoacids, nucleotides, organic acids, and amines. Following validation, the method was applied for the metabolic profiling of hundreds of samples of spent culture medium originating from human IVF procedures and several hundreds of biological samples such as amniotic fluid, human urine and blood serum from pregnant women. The bioanalytical end‐point was to provide assistance in the process of embryo transfer and improving IVF success rates but also to provide insight in complications related to the subsequent embryo growth during pregnancy.
The sensitive capillary electrophoretic‐LIF method for simultaneous determination of curcuminoids in turmeric by enhancing fluorescence intensities of molecules upon inclusion into (2‐hydroxypropyl)‐β‐cyclodextrin
Authors: Kalaycıoğlu Zeynep , Hashemi Parya , Günaydın Keriman , Erim F. Bedia
Published: July 2015

Curcuminoids have received great attention in the past decades due to their health benefit properties. The aim of this study is to develop a very simple, rapid, and sensitive capillary zone electrophoresis technique coupled with a laser induced fluorescence detector (LIF) for the simultaneous determination of three major curcuminoids of turmeric, namely, curcumin, demethoxy curcumin (DMC), and bisdemethoxy curcumin (BDMC). Background electrolyte was selected as borate at pH 9.6 and (2‐hydroxypropyl)‐β‐cyclodextrin (2‐HP‐β‐CD) was added to prevent rapid alkali degradation of curcuminoids in buffer and to increase fluorescence intensities of molecules. With the addition of 2‐HP‐β‐CD to the separation electrolyte, the fluorescence signal intensities of curcuminoids were enhanced considerably by 30, 40, and 54 fold for curcumin, DMC, and BDMC, respectively. The three curcuminoids of turmeric were fully separated and quantified in less than 4.5 min. The repeatability of the peak areas of curcuminoids for intra‐day and inter‐day experiments was in the satisfactory range of 2.26 and 2.55%, respectively. The LOD and LOQ values for the developed method were equal to or less than 0.081 and 0.270 μg/mL, respectively, for all curcuminoids. The developed method was successfully applied to find curcuminoids amount in turmeric samples and herbal supplements.
Techniques for tracing PHA‐producing organisms and for qualitative and quantitative analysis of intra‐ and extracellular PHA
Authors: Koller Martin , Rodríguez‐Contreras Alejandra
Published: July 2015

Poly(hydroxyalkanoates) (PHAs) constitute a versatile family of prokaryotic reserve materials that, thanks to their plastic‐like properties, displays high potential for application in various fields of the plastic market. Various methods are reported for tracing PHA‐producing organisms, and for qualitative and quantitative analysis of both intra‐ and extracellular PHA. Different techniques are needed first to discover novel powerful PHA‐producing microbes, second to identify new PHA‐building blocks, and thirdly for structural and conformational PHA analysis on the intramolecular level. Further, as the aspect of utmost industrial significance, methods for fast, reliable, and routine process control during PHA bioproduction are required. This review tracks the development of different methods for PHA detection and determination, such as gravimetry, turbidimetry, optical, fluorescence, or electron microscopic techniques, UV, Raman, and infrared spectrometry, genetic methods (Southern blot hybridization, PCR, fluorescence‐labeled in situ hybridization), enzyme‐based biosensors, 1H and 13C NMR, and advanced gas and liquid chromatographic approaches. We propose the most suitable techniques for particular challenges of PHA research and production, and critically assess their strengths and limitations. Moreover, we provide suggestions for future developments in order to accelerate the final launch of PHA on the “bioplastic” market as anticipated since decades by the respective scientific community.
Comparison of solidification/stabilization of lead contaminated soil between magnesia–phosphate cement and ordinary portland cement under the same dosage
Authors: Li Jiang‐Shan , Xue Qiang , Wang Ping , Zhang Ting‐Ting , Zhao Ying
Published: July 2015

Magnesia–phosphate cement (MPC) and ordinary Portland cement (OPC) stabilization are both practical approaches to remediate soils contaminated with high levels of lead (Pb). The differences in the strength and stability of Pb‐rich contaminated soil solidified and stabilized using MPC and OPC are examined in this study, and leaching mechanism of Pb in curing bodies under strong acid environment was analyzed. Soil spiked with different Pb contaminations are stabilized with cement contents of 10, 20, and 30% and then cured for 28 days. The soil samples are then subjected to a series of unconfined compressive strength (UCS) and leaching tests (Toxicity characteristic leaching procedure (TCLP) and semi‐dynamic leaching tests) using an acetic acid leachant at pH of 2.88. The results showed that the UCS and pH of curing bodies with OPC were higher than MPC at the same content. While MPC presented a better effect than OPC in the stabilization of Pb, and the leaching mechanism of Pb in curing bodies treated by MPC and OPC presented dissolution firstly and then followed by diffusion. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 35: 88–94, 2016
Characterization and application of biomass gasifier waste material for adsorptive removal of Cr (VI) from aqueous solution
Authors: Narayan Ram , Meena Rameshwar Prasad , Patel Amit Kumar , Prajapati Anuj Kumar , Srivastava Shalini , Mondal Monoj Kumar
Published: July 2015

This study was performed to investigate the latent potential of biomass gasifier waste material (BGWM) as an adsorbent for removal of Cr (VI) from aqueous solution. The present work also proposes an alternate use of gasifier refuge BGWM with great economic feasibility. The effects of initial pH, BGWM concentration, Cr(VI) concentration, temperature and contact time were investigated on the removal of Cr (VI) from aqueous solution. The maximum removal of Cr (VI) was found to be 99.67% at optimum condition of initial pH 2, contact time 80 min, initial Cr (VI) concentration 10 mg L−1, adsorbent dose 5 g L−1, agitation speed 120 rpm, and temperature 35°C. The adsorbent was characterised by SEM, EDX, XRD, BET and FTIR analysis to get important information about its effective application for Cr (VI) removal. The BET surface area of 165.287 m2 g−1 for BGWM was found comparable to that of commercial silica. Batch adsorption experiments showed that pseudo‐second‐order kinetics model and Langmuir isotherm model fitted the adsorption data very well. Thermodynamic parameters revealed the feasibility, spontaneity and endothermic nature of Cr (VI) adsorption onto BGWM. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 35: 95–102, 2016
Framework of aftershock fragility assessment–case studies: older California reinforced concrete building frames
Authors: Jeon Jong‐Su , DesRoches Reginald , Lowes Laura N. , Brilakis Ioannis
Published: July 2015

Current seismic design codes and damage estimation tools neglect the influence of successive events on structures. However, recent earthquakes have demonstrated that structures damaged during an initial event (mainshock) are more vulnerable to severe damage and collapse during a subsequent event (aftershock). This increased vulnerability to damage translates to increased likelihood of loss of use, property, and life. Thus, a reliable risk assessment tool is required that characterizes the risk of the undamaged structure subjected to an initial event and the risk of the damaged structure under subsequent events. In this paper, a framework for development of aftershock fragilities is presented; these aftershock fragilities define the likelihood that a building damaged during a mainshock will exhibit a given damage state following one or more aftershocks. Thus, the framework provides a method for characterizing the risk associated with damage accumulation in the structure. The framework includes the following: (i) creation of a numerical model of the structure; (ii) characterization of building damage states; (iii) generation of a suite of mainshock–aftershocks; (iv) mainshock–aftershock analyses; and (v) development of aftershock fragility curves using probabilistic aftershock demand models, defined as a linear regression of aftershock demand–intensity pairs in a logarithmic space, and damage‐state prediction models. The framework is not limited to a specific structure type but requires numerical models defining structural response and linking structural response with damage. In the current study, non‐ductile RC frames (low‐rise, mid‐rise, and high‐rise) are selected as case studies for the application of the framework. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sorption kinetics of TNT and RDX in anaerobic freshwater and marine sediments: Batch studies
Authors: Ariyarathna Thivanka , Vlahos Penny , Tobias Craig , Smith Richard
Published: July 2015

Examination of the partitioning of explosives onto sediment in marine environments is critical to predict the toxicological impacts of worldwide explosive-contaminated sites adjacent to estuaries, wetlands, and the coastal ocean. Marine sediments have been identified as sites of enhanced munitions removal, yet most studies addressing these interactions focus on soils and freshwater sediments. The present study measured the kinetics of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) and hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) sorption onto 2 marine sediments of varying grain sizes (silt vs sand) and organic carbon (OC) content. Abiotic sediment sorption tests were performed at 23 °C, 15 °C, and 4 °C by spiking TNT and RDX solutions directly into anaerobic sediment slurries. Marine sediments showed significantly higher compound uptake rates (0.30–0.80 h−1) than freshwater silt (0.0046–0.0065 h−1) for both compounds, probably because of lower compound solubilities and a higher pH in marine systems. Equilibrium partition constants are on the same order of magnitude for marine silt (1.1–2.0 L kg−1 sediment) and freshwater silt (1.4–3.1 L kg−1 sediment) but lower for marine sand (0.72–0.92 L kg−1 sediment). Total organic carbon content in marine sediments varied linearly with equilibrium partition constants for TNT and was moderately linear for RDX. Uptake rates and equilibrium constants of explosives are inversely correlated to temperature regardless of sediment type because of kinetic barriers associated with low temperatures. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:47–55. © 2015 SETAC
Fluoroquinolones in the Wenyu River catchment, China: Occurrence simulation and risk assessment
Authors: Hao Xuewen , Cao Yan , Zhang Lai , Zhang Yongyong , Liu Jianguo
Published: July 2015

Concern is increasing regarding the environmental impact of the high usage rate and intensive release of antibiotics used for human and animal therapy in major urban areas of China. In the present study, regional environmental distribution simulations and risk assessments for 3 commonly used fluoroquinolones in the Wenyu River catchment were conducted using a typical catchment model widely used in Europe. The fluoroquinolone antibiotics investigated (ofloxacin, norfloxacin, and ciprofloxacin) are consumed at high levels for personal health care in China. These antibiotics were simulated in the aquatic environment of the Wenyu River catchment across the Beijing City area for annual average concentrations, with regional predicted environmental concentrations (PECs) of approximately 711 ng/L, 55.3 ng/L, and 22.2 ng/L and local PECs up to 1.8 µg/L, 116 ng/L, and 43 ng/L, respectively. Apart from hydrological conditions, the concentrations of fluoroquinolones were associated closely with the sewage treatment plants (STPs) and their serving population, as well as hospital distributions. The presence of these fluoroquinolones in the catchment area of the present study showed significant characteristics of the occurrence of pharmaceuticals in the aquatic environment in an urban river, with typical “down-the-drain” chemicals. Significantly high concentrations of specific antibiotics indicated non-negligible risks caused by the intensive use in the local aquatic environment in a metropolitan area, particularly ofloxacin in upstream Shahe Reservoir, middle stream and downstream Qing River, and Liangma River to the Ba River segment. Specific treatment measures for these pharmaceuticals and personal care products in STPs are required for such metropolitan areas. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015;34:2764–2770. © 2015 SETAC
Near universal detection of alterations in CTNNB1 and Wnt pathway regulators in desmoid‐type fibromatosis by whole‐exome sequencing and genomic analysis
Authors: Crago Aimee M. , Chmielecki Juliann , Rosenberg Mara , O'Connor Rachael , Byrne Caitlin , Wilder Fatima G. , Thorn Katherine , Agius Phaedra , Kuk Deborah , Socci Nicholas D. , Qin Li‐Xuan , Meyerson Matthew , Hameed Meera , Singer Samuel
Published: July 2015

CTNNB1 mutations or APC abnormalities have been observed in ∼85% of desmoids examined by Sanger sequencing and are associated with Wnt/β‐catenin activation. We sought to identify molecular aberrations in “wild‐type” tumors (those without CTNNB1 or APC alteration) and to determine their prognostic relevance. CTNNB1 was examined by Sanger sequencing in 117 desmoids; a mutation was observed in 101 (86%) and 16 were wild type. Wild‐type status did not associate with tumor recurrence. Moreover, in unsupervised clustering based on U133A‐derived gene expression profiles, wild‐type and mutated tumors clustered together. Whole‐exome sequencing of eight of the wild‐type desmoids revealed that three had a CTNNB1 mutation that had been undetected by Sanger sequencing. The mutation was found in a mean 16% of reads (vs. 37% for mutations identified by Sanger). Of the other five wild‐type tumors sequenced, two had APC loss, two had chromosome 6 loss, and one had mutation of BMI1. The finding of low‐frequency CTNNB1 mutation or APC loss in wild‐type desmoids was validated in the remaining eight wild‐type desmoids; directed miSeq identified low‐frequency CTNNB1 mutation in four and comparative genomic hybridization identified APC loss in one. These results demonstrate that mutations affecting CTNNB1 or APC occur more frequently in desmoids than previously recognized (111 of 117; 95%), and designation of wild‐type genotype is largely determined by sensitivity of detection methods. Even true CTNNB1 wild‐type tumors (determined by next‐generation sequencing) may have genomic alterations associated with Wnt activation (chromosome 6 loss/BMI1 mutation), supporting Wnt/β‐catenin activation as the common pathway governing desmoid initiation. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prefrontal cortex white matter tracts in prodromal Huntington disease
Authors: Matsui Joy T. , Vaidya Jatin G. , Wassermann Demian , Kim Regina Eunyoung , Magnotta Vincent A. , Johnson Hans J. , Paulsen Jane S. ,   PREDICT‐HD Investigators and Coordinators of the Huntington Study Group
Published: July 2015

Huntington disease (HD) is most widely known for its selective degeneration of striatal neurons but there is also growing evidence for white matter (WM) deterioration. The primary objective of this research was to conduct a large‐scale analysis using multisite diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) tractography data to quantify diffusivity properties along major prefrontal cortex WM tracts in prodromal HD. Fifteen international sites participating in the PREDICT‐HD study collected imaging and neuropsychological data on gene‐positive HD participants without a clinical diagnosis (i.e., prodromal) and gene‐negative control participants. The anatomical prefrontal WM tracts of the corpus callosum (PFCC), anterior thalamic radiations (ATRs), inferior fronto‐occipital fasciculi (IFO), and uncinate fasciculi (UNC) were identified using streamline tractography of DWI. Within each of these tracts, tensor scalars for fractional anisotropy, mean diffusivity, radial diffusivity, and axial diffusivity coefficients were calculated. We divided prodromal HD subjects into three CAG‐age product (CAP) groups having Low, Medium, or High probabilities of onset indexed by genetic exposure. We observed significant differences in WM properties for each of the four anatomical tracts for the High CAP group in comparison to controls. Additionally, the Medium CAP group presented differences in the ATR and IFO in comparison to controls. Furthermore, WM alterations in the PFCC, ATR, and IFO showed robust associations with neuropsychological measures of executive functioning. These results suggest long‐range tracts essential for cross‐region information transfer show early vulnerability in HD and may explain cognitive problems often present in the prodromal stage. Hum Brain Mapp 36:3717–3732, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Age‐related changes in the topological organization of the white matter structural connectome across the human lifespan
Authors: Zhao Tengda , Cao Miao , Niu Haijing , Zuo Xi‐Nian , Evans Alan , He Yong , Dong Qi , Shu Ni
Published: July 2015

Lifespan is a dynamic process with remarkable changes in brain structure and function. Previous neuroimaging studies have indicated age‐related microstructural changes in specific white matter tracts during development and aging. However, the age‐related alterations in the topological architecture of the white matter structural connectome across the human lifespan remain largely unknown. Here, a cohort of 113 healthy individuals (ages 9–85) with both diffusion and structural MRI acquisitions were examined. For each participant, the high‐resolution white matter structural networks were constructed by deterministic fiber tractography among 1024 parcellation units and were quantified with graph theoretical analyses. The global network properties, including network strength, cost, topological efficiency, and robustness, followed an inverted U‐shaped trajectory with a peak age around the third decade. The brain areas with the most significantly nonlinear changes were located in the prefrontal and temporal cortices. Different brain regions exhibited heterogeneous trajectories: the posterior cingulate and lateral temporal cortices displayed prolonged maturation/degeneration compared with the prefrontal cortices. Rich‐club organization was evident across the lifespan, whereas hub integration decreased linearly with age, especially accompanied by the loss of frontal hubs and their connections. Additionally, age‐related changes in structural connections were predominantly located within and between the prefrontal and temporal modules. Finally, based on the graph metrics of structural connectome, accurate predictions of individual age were obtained (r = 0.77). Together, the data indicated a dynamic topological organization of the brain structural connectome across human lifespan, which may provide possible structural substrates underlying functional and cognitive changes with age. Hum Brain Mapp 36:3777–3792, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Intrinsic brain activity as a diagnostic biomarker in children with benign epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes
Authors: Zhu Yihong , Yu Yang , Shinkareva Svetlana V. , Ji Gong‐Jun , Wang Jue , Wang Zhong‐Jin , Zang Yu‐Feng , Liao Wei , Tang Ye‐Lei
Published: July 2015

Benign epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (BECTS) is often associated with neural circuit dysfunction, particularly during the transient active state characterized by interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs). Little is known, however, about the functional neural circuit abnormalities in BECTS without IEDs, or if such abnormalities could be used to differentiate BECTS patients without IEDs from healthy controls (HCs) for early diagnosis. To this end, we conducted resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (RS‐fMRI) and simultaneous Electroencephalogram (EEG) in children with BECTS (n = 43) and age‐matched HC (n = 28). The simultaneous EEG recordings distinguished BECTS with IEDs (n = 20) from without IEDs (n = 23). Intrinsic brain activity was measured in all three groups using the amplitude of low frequency fluctuation at rest. Compared to HC, BECTS patients with IEDs exhibited an intrinsic activity abnormality in the thalamus, suggesting that thalamic dysfunction could contribute to IED emergence while patients without IEDs exhibited intrinsic activity abnormalities in middle frontal gyrus and superior parietal gyrus. Using multivariate pattern classification analysis, we were able to differentiate BECTS without IEDs from HCs with 88.23% accuracy. BECTS without epileptic transients can be distinguished from HC and BECTS with IEDs by unique regional abnormalities in resting brain activity. Both transient abnormalities as reflected by IEDs and chronic abnormalities as reflected by RS‐fMRI may contribute to BECTS development and expression. Intrinsic brain activity and multivariate pattern classification techniques are promising tools to diagnose and differentiate BECTS syndromes. Hum Brain Mapp 36:3878–3889, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Interactions between glutamate, dopamine, and the neuronal signature of response inhibition in the human striatum
Authors: Lorenz Robert C. , Gleich Tobias , Buchert Ralph , Schlagenhauf Florian , Kühn Simone , Gallinat Jürgen
Published: July 2015

Response inhibition is a basic mechanism in cognitive control and dysfunctional in major psychiatric disorders. The neuronal mechanisms are in part driven by dopamine in the striatum. Animal data suggest a regulatory role of glutamate on the level of the striatum. We used a trimodal imaging procedure of the human striatum including F18‐DOPA positron emission tomography, proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and functional magnetic resonance imaging of a stop signal task. We investigated dopamine synthesis capacity and glutamate concentration in vivo and their relation to functional properties of response inhibition. A mediation analysis revealed a significant positive association between dopamine synthesis capacity and inhibition‐related neural activity in the caudate nucleus. This relationship was significantly mediated by striatal glutamate concentration. Furthermore, stop signal reaction time was inversely related to striatal activity during inhibition. The data show, for the first time in humans, an interaction between dopamine, glutamate, and the neural signature of response inhibition in the striatum. This finding stresses the importance of the dopamine–glutamate interaction for behavior and may facilitate the understanding of psychiatric disorders characterized by impaired response inhibition. Hum Brain Mapp 36:4031–4040, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.