bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Statistical properties of substorm auroral onset beads/rays
Authors: Nishimura Y. , Yang J. , Pritchett P. L. , Coroniti F. V. , Donovan E. F. , Lyons L. R. , Wolf R. A. , Angelopoulos V. , Mende S. B.
Published: September 2016

Auroral substorms are often associated with optical ray or bead structures during initial brightening (substorm auroral onset waves). Occurrence probabilities and properties of substorm onset waves have been characterized using 112 substorm events identified in Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms (THEMIS) all‐sky imager data and compared to Rice Convection Model–Equilibrium (RCM‐E) and kinetic instability properties. All substorm onsets were found to be associated with optical waves, and thus, optical waves are a common feature of substorm onset. Eastward propagating wave events are more frequent than westward propagating wave events and tend to occur during lower‐latitude substorms (stronger solar wind driving). The wave propagation directions are organized by orientation of initial brightening arcs. We also identified notable differences in wave propagation speed, wavelength (wave number), period, and duration between westward and eastward propagating waves. In contrast, the wave growth rate does not depend on the propagation direction or substorm strength but is inversely proportional to the wave duration. This suggests that the waves evolve to poleward expansion at a certain intensity threshold and that the wave properties do not directly relate to substorm strengths. However, waves are still important for mediating the transition between the substorm growth phase and poleward expansion. The relation to arc orientation can be explained by magnetotail structures in the RCM‐E, indicating that substorm onset location relative to the pressure peak determines the wave propagation direction. The measured wave properties agree well with kinetic ballooning interchange instability, while cross‐field current instability and electromagnetic ion cyclotron instability give much larger propagation speed and smaller wave period.
Effects of disturbed electric fields in the low‐latitude and equatorial ionosphere during the 2015 St. Patrick's Day storm
Authors: Kuai Jiawei , Liu Libo , Liu Jing , Sripathi S. , Zhao Biqiang , Chen Yiding , Le Huijun , Hu Lianhuan
Published: September 2016

The 2015 St. Patrick's Day geomagnetic storm with SYM‐H value of −233 nT is an extreme space weather event in the current 24th solar cycle. In this work, we investigated the main mechanisms of the profound ionospheric disturbances over equatorial and low latitudes in the Asian‐Australian sector and the American sector during this super storm event. The results reveal that the disturbed electric fields, which comprise penetration electric fields (PEFs) and disturbance dynamo electric fields (DDEFs), play a decisive role in the ionospheric storm effects in low latitude and equatorial regions. PEFs occur on 17 March in both the American sector and the Asian‐Australian sector. The effects of DDEFs are also remarkable in the two longitudinal sectors. Both the DDEFs and PEFs show the notable local time dependence, which causes the sector differences in the characteristics of the disturbed electric fields. This differences would further lead to the sector differences in the low‐latitude ionospheric response during this storm. The negative storm effects caused by the long‐duration DDEFs are intense over the Asian‐Australian sector, while the repeated elevations of hmF2 and the equatorial ionization anomaly intensifications caused by the multiple strong PEFs are more distinctive over the American sector. Especially, the storm time F3 layer features are caught on 17 March in the American equatorial region, proving the effects of the multiple strong eastward PEFs.
Diurnal evolution of the F region electron density local time gradient at low and middle latitudes resolved by the Swarm constellation
Authors: Xiong Chao , Zhou Yun‐Liang , Lühr Hermann , Ma Shu‐Ying
Published: September 2016

In this study we have provided new insights into the local time gradient of F region electron density (ΔNe) derived from the lower pair of Swarm satellites flying side by side. Our result shows that the electron density (Ne) increase starts just at sunrise, around 06:00 LT, simultaneously at low and middle latitudes due to the increased photoionization. At equatorial latitudes the increase in electron density gets even steeper after 07:00 LT, and the steepest increase of electron density (about 3 · 1010 m−3 within 6 min) occurs around 09:00 LT. We suggest that the upward vertical plasma drift in connection with the buildup of the equatorial fountain effect plays a major role. We also found that the local time variations of the equatorial ionization anomaly (EIA) crest electron density during daytime are similar to the respective evolutions at the equator, but about 1–2 h delayed. We relate this delay to the response time between the equatorial electric field and the buildup of the plasma fountain. At equinox months a fast decrease of the F region electron density is seen at the EIA trough region during the prereversal enhancement, while an increase is found meanwhile at crest regions. Afterward, a fast decrease of the EIA crest electron density occurs between 19:00 and 23:00 LT, with seasonal dependence. The local time gradient between Swarm A and C shows also prominent longitudinal wave‐4 pattern around August months, and the phase of DE3 in ΔNe is found to be delayed by 6 h compared to that in Ne.
Effect of particle entrainment on the runout of pyroclastic density currents
Authors: Fauria Kristen E. , Manga Michael , Chamberlain Michael
Published: September 2016

Pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) can erode soil and bedrock, yet we currently lack a mechanistic understanding of particle entrainment that can be incorporated into models and used to understand how PDC bulking affects runout. Here we quantify how particle splash, the ejection of particles due to impact by a projectile, entrains particles into dilute PDCs. We use scaled laboratory experiments to measure the mass of sand ejected by impacts of pumice, wood, and nylon spheres. We then derive an expression for particle splash that we validate with our experimental results as well as results from seven other studies. We find that the number of ejected particles scales with the kinetic energy of the impactor and the depth of the crater generated by the impactor. Last, we use a one‐dimensional model of a dilute, compressible density current—where runout distance is controlled by air entrainment and particle exchange with the substrate—to examine how particle entrainment by splash affects PDC density and runout. Splash‐driven particle entrainment can increase the runout distance of dilute PDCs by an order of magnitude. Furthermore, the temperature of entrained particles greatly affects runout and PDCs that entrain ambient temperature particles runout farther than those that entrain hot particles. Particle entrainment by splash therefore not only increases the runout of dilute PDCs but demonstrates that the temperature and composition of the lower boundary have consequences for PDC density, temperature, runout, hazards and depositional record.
Offspring loss after male change in wild siamangs: the importance of abrupt weaning and male care
Authors: Morino Luca , Borries Carola
Published: September 2016

Objectives

Infanticide by males is assumed to promote permanent male–female associations, although its importance for social monogamy is still debated. We examined the consequences of male membership change in the largest socially monogamous primate, the siamang (Symphalangus syndactylus), a species that also forms polyandrous groups and where males may provide offspring care. We examine (a) the potential risk of infanticide by documenting changes in female–offspring relationships following male change, expecting abrupt weaning; and (b) the potential importance of male care and polyandry for offspring survival.

Methods

We witnessed four male changes at Way Canguk Field Station (Indonesia) in groups where the youngest offspring was estimated to be about 2 years of age. We quantified aspects of mother–offspring relationships (interindividual distance, body contact, and nipple contact) and estimated the proportion of time being carried during travel (August 2007–April 2009).

Results

In the two groups into which new males immigrated, offspring were weaned abruptly, suggesting infanticide by males as a potential risk. Even though no attacks on infants by males were witnessed, both infants disappeared shortly after the male change. Another infant disappeared after its main carrier (a male) emigrated. Conversely, in a group where the resident subordinate male replaced the dominant male, the offspring experienced no change in care and survived the transition.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that male immigration in hylobatids increases mortality risk for infants, emphasize the importance of offspring care, and cast doubts on prior classifications of 2‐year‐old siamangs as independently traveling individuals.
Enantioresolution of (RS)‐baclofen by liquid chromatography: A review
Authors: Batra Sonika , Bhushan Ravi
Published: September 2016

Baclofen is a commonly used racemic drug and has a simple chemical structure in terms of the presence of only one stereogenic center. Since the desirable pharmacological effect is in only one enantiomer, several possibilities exist for the other enantiomer for evaluation of the disposition of the racemic mixture of the drug. This calls for the development of enantioselective analytical methodology. This review summarizes and evaluates different methods of enantioseparation of (RS)‐baclofen using both direct and indirect approaches, application of certain chiral reagents and chiral stationary phases (though very expensive). Methods of separation of diastereomers of (RS)‐baclofen prepared with different chiral derivatizing reagents (under microwave irradiation at ease and in less time) on reversed‐phase achiral columns or via a ligand exchange approach providing high‐sensitivity detection by the relatively less expensive methods of TLC and HPLC are discussed. The methods may be helpful for determination of enantiomers in biological samples and in pharmaceutical formulations for control of enantiomeric purity and can be practiced both in analytical laboratories and industry for routine analysis and R&D activities.
Simultaneous determination of three active components in rat plasma by UPLC–MS/MS: Application to pharmacokinetic study after oral administration of Herba Sarcandrae extract
Authors: Zhang Bin , Chen Jianguo , Jiang Qichuan , Wang Xuefeng , Lu Yan , Gong Liang , Chen Dong
Published: September 2016

A rapid, specific and sensitive ultra‐performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC‐MS/MS) method was developed and validated for determination of isofraxidin, rosmarinic acid and kaempferol‐3‐O‐glucuronide in rat plasma using warfarin as an internal standard (IS). Separation was conducted on a Thermo Hypersil GOLD C18 column with linear gradient elution using methanol and water. Mass spectrometric detection was conducted using selected reaction monitoring (SRM) via an electrospray ionization (ESI) source. All analytes exhibited good linearity within their concentration ranges (r > 0.9990). The lower limits of quantitations of isofraxidin, rosmarinic acid, and kaempferol‐3‐O‐glucuronide were 1.31, 0.67 and 0.92 ng/mL, respectively. Intra‐ and inter‐day precisions of these investigated components exhibited an RSD within 11.7%, and the accuracy ranged from −12.5 to 15.0% at all QC levels. The developed method was successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic study of isofraxidin, rosmarinic acid, and kaempferol‐3‐O‐glucuronide in rats after oral administration of Herba Sarcandrae Extract.
C1q/TNF‐related protein 3 expression and effects on adipocyte differentiation of 3T3‐L1 cells
Authors: Nishimoto Hiroki , Yamamoto Akihiro , Furukawa Souhei , Wakisaka Satoshi , Maeda Takashi
Published: September 2016

Adipose tissue‐derived adipokines influence a number of organs critical for energy homeostasis and metabolism. One of the most extensively studied adipokines is adiponectin, which exerts anti‐diabetic, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐atherogenic functions on various cell types. CTRP3, a paralog of adiponectin, is a member of the C1q and tumor necrosis factor‐related protein (CTRP) superfamily. CTRP3 reduces hepatic triglyceride levels in diet‐induced obese (DIO) mice. However, the physiological role of CTRP3 in adipocytes is largely unknown. In the course of our investigation of expression profiles of CTRPs during adipocyte differentiation, we found that CTRP3 expression pattern is different from that previously reported. Therefore, we examined the effect of CTRP3 on adipogenesis using 3T3‐L1 cells. The expression level of CTRP3 was markedly decreased during the differentiation of 3T3‐L1 cells. Recombinant CTRP3 (rCTRP3) treatment significantly reduced intracellular lipid content and decreased expression of adipogenic marker genes such as peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), CCAAT/enhancer binding protein alpha (C/EBPα), adiponectin, and fatty acid binding protein 4 (FABP4) in 3T3‐L1 cells. Furthermore, rCTRP3 induced the phosphorylation of extracellular signal‐regulated protein kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) and Akt in differentiated 3T3‐L1 adipocytes. These results suggest that CTRP3 may negatively regulate lipid metabolism during adipocyte differentiation.
Human glandular organoid formation in murine engineering chambers after collagenase digestion and flow cytometry isolation of normal human breast tissue single cells
Authors: Huo Cecilia W. , Huang Dexing , Chew Grace L. , Hill Prue , Vohora Ambika , Ingman Wendy V. , Glynn Danielle J. , Godde Nathan , Henderson Michael A. , Thompson Erik W. , Britt Kara L.
Published: September 2016

Women with high mammographic density (MD) are at increased risk of breast cancer (BC) after adjustment for age and body mass index. We have developed a murine biochamber model in which both high MD (HMD) and low MD (LMD) tissue can be propagated. Here, we tested whether cells isolated by collagenase digestion and fluorescence‐activated cell sorting (FACS) from normal breast can be reconstituted in our biochamber model, which would allow cell‐specific manipulations to be tested. Fresh breast tissue was collected from women (n = 7) undergoing prophylactic mastectomy. The tissue underwent collagenase digestion overnight and, in some cases, additional FACS enrichment to obtain mature epithelial, luminal progenitor, mammary stem, and stromal cells. Cells were then transferred bilaterally into biochambers in SCID mice (n = 5–7) and incubated for 6 weeks, before harvesting for histological analyses, and immunohistochemical staining for cytokeratins (CK), vimentin, Ki‐67, murine macrophages, and Cleaved Caspase‐3. Biochambers inoculated with single cells after collagenase digestion or with flow cytometry contained glandular structures of human origin (human vimentin‐positive), which expressed CK‐14 and pan‐CK, and were proliferating (Ki‐67‐positive). Glandular structures from the digested tissues were smaller than those in chambers seeded with finely chopped intact mammary tissue. Mouse macrophage infiltration was higher in the chambers arising from digested tissues. Pooled single cells and FACS fractionated cells were viable in the murine biochambers and formed proliferating glandular organoids of human origin. This is among the first report to demonstrate the success of formed human glandular organoids from isolated primary mammary cells in the murine biochamber model.
Experimental study on turbulence properties in the dual nozzle opposed impinging stream mixer
Authors: Zhang Jianwei , Yan Junjie , Dong Xin , Shang Panlong , Feng Ying
Published: September 2016

The impinging stream reactor currently under study, especially in processes of fluid mixing, is employed in a variety of applications that include pharmaceuticals, petroleum, and provisions. The distributions of three‐dimensional velocity fluctuation in the dual nozzle opposed impinging stream mixer were measured experimentally using laser Doppler velocimetry (LDV). The results showed that stagnation points were in proximity of the line of z = 0 under experimental conditions, but the exact positions of these stagnation points shifted with different nozzle diameters, nozzle spacing, and inlet flow rates. The distributions of RMS velocity and turbulent kinetic energy were similar in the same operating condition, but turbulence intensity changed obviously on the z axis ranging from −10 mm to 30 mm, in which region turbulence was intense and the large turbulence intensity was advantageous to mixing. The RMS velocity was influenced obviously by changing distance between nozzles, the turbulence intensity was affected greatly by the nozzle diameters, and the region of high turbulent kinetic energy which was beneficial to mixing was enlarged by increasing inlet flow rates.
Determination of cannabinoids in hemp nut products in Taiwan by HPLC‐MS/MS coupled with chemometric analysis: quality evaluation and a pilot human study
Authors: Chang Chih‐Wei , Tung Chun‐Wei , Tsai Chin‐Chuan , Wu Yu‐Tse , Hsu Mei‐Chich
Published: September 2016

Hemp nuts are mature cannabis seeds obtained after shelling and that are commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine for treating functional constipation. In this work, we screened hemp nut products, classified them, and verified the legality of consuming them. A total of 18 products were purchased from Taiwan, China, and Canada. Validated high‐performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry methods were developed for analyzing the cannabinoid (i.e., Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and cannabinol) content of the products and the concentration of urinary 11‐nor‐9‐carboxy‐THC. Chemometric techniques, namely hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA) and principal component analysis (PCA), were applied for rapidly classifying 11 concentrated powder products in Taiwan. A pilot human study comprising single and multiple administrations of a product with 1.5 µg/g of THC was conducted to examine the urinary 11‐nor‐9‐carboxy‐THC concentration. Through optimization of 32 full factorial design, using 60% isopropanol as the extraction solvent exhibited the highest yield of cannabinoids and was applied as the optimal condition in further analysis. The results of HCA and PCA on quality evaluation were in good agreement; however, the tested products possessed distinct CBD‐to‐THC ratios which ranged widely from 0.1:1 to 46.8:1. Particularly, the products with CBD‐to‐THC ratios higher than 1:1 were the majority in Taiwan. Our data suggested that all the tested hemp nut products met the Taiwan restriction criterion of 10 µg/g of THC. We propose a usual consumption amount of hemp nut products in Taiwan would unlikely to violate the cut‐off point of 15 ng/mL of urinary 11‐nor‐9‐carboxy‐THC. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Increased fatty acid accumulation following overexpression of glycerol‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase and suppression of β‐oxidation in oleaginous fungus Mortierella alpina
Authors: Yang Hua , Chen Haiqin , Hao Guangfei , Mei Tiantian , Zhang Hao , Chen Wei , Chen Yong Q.
Published: September 2016

Mortierella alpina is an industrial oleaginous fungus. Although its fatty acid synthesis pathways have been thoroughly examined, the mechanism for fatty acid accumulation is still not fully understood. In this study, we analyzed the effect of glycerol‐3‐phosphate (G3P) supply and β‐oxidation suppression during fatty acid accumulation. The NAD+‐dependent glycerol‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase coding gene was cloned from M. alpina ATCC 32222 and overexpressed in this organism. Lipid analysis via GC‐MS revealed that overexpression of G3PD1 resulted in a 50% increase in fatty acid content, whereas G3PD2 exerted a less significant effect and G3PD3 had no effect. Simultaneous supplementation with carnitine O‐acetyltransferase inhibitor, R‐etomoxir, further improved fatty acid accumulation up to 49.4% of dry cell weight.

Practical applications: Our results suggest that G3PD1 plays an important role during fatty acid accumulation in M. alpina. Suppression of β‐oxidation can significantly increase fatty acid accumulation. These findings have obvious implications for biotechnological strategies to increase the overall level of oil production. Simultaneously, overexpressing G3PD1 and inhibiting genes involved in fatty acid β‐oxidation may be a step forward to achieving further improvements in fatty acid accumulation in M. alpina.

G3PD1, catalyzing G3P to DHAP conversion, plays the most important role during fatty acid accumulation in M. alpina compared to G3PD2 and G3PD3.
Capillary electrophoresis chemiluminescence assay of naphthol isomers in human urine and river water using Ni(IV) complex‐luminol system
Authors: Xu Xiangdong , Li Nan , Li Xiang , Shi Hongmei , Ma Chunling , Kang Weijun , Cong Bin
Published: September 2016

A capillary electrophoresis method involving online indirect chemiluminescence (CL) detection was used to determine naphthol (NAP) isomers. The method was based on the quenching effect of 1‐ and 2‐NAP on a new CL reaction of luminol with Ni(IV) complex in an alkaline medium. Separation was conducted with a 25.0 mM sodium borate buffer containing 0.8 mmol/L luminol. Under optimized conditions, 1‐ and 2‐NAP were baseline separated and detected in less than 8 min. The limits of detection of 1‐ and 2‐NAP were 3.1 and 2.7 μg/L, respectively (S/N = 3), with a linear range of 4.0–80.0 μg/L (r > 0.995). Analysis of real samples demonstrated that the spiked recoveries were in the range of 89.2–107.5% (n = 3). The proposed method was successfully used to determine 1‐ and 2‐NAP contents in three environmental water samples and 14 human urine samples. No derivatization or tedious pretreatment was required in the analysis. The proposed method is a potential approach for routine tests of naphthol isomers in a facile CE–CL system.
Feasibility of real‐time near‐infrared indocyanine green fluorescence endoscopy for the evaluation of mucosal head and neck lesions
Authors: Schmidt Florian , Dittberner Andreas , Koscielny Sven , Petersen Iver , Guntinas–Lichius Orlando
Published: September 2016

Background

The purpose of this study was to explore the feasibility and potential drawbacks of near‐infrared (NIR) endoscopy with indocyanine green (ICG) to examine mucosal head and neck lesions.

Methods

NIR ICG endoscopy was applied to image head and neck cancer epithelium in vivo. The evaluation of the ICG videos was performed off‐line independently by 2 evaluators and blinded with respect to final histopathological results from biopsies taken as the gold standard.

Results

Forty percent of the lesions from 55 patients were histologically malignant. ICG positivity showed a sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy to be related to a malignant tumor of 90.5%, 90.9%, and 89.1%, respectively. The kappa index for the interobserver assessment showed a 94.4% agreement for the assessment of the ICG positivity. Side effects of the NIR ICG endoscopy did not arise.

Conclusion

NIR ICG endoscopy in patients with mucosal head and neck lesions was feasible and safe. It might help intraoperatively to differentiate benign from malignant lesions. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: 234–240, 2017
Precocious Phenotypic Transcription‐Factor Expression During Early Development
Authors: VanOudenhove Jennifer J. , Medina Ricardo , Ghule Prachi N. , Lian Jane B. , Stein Janet L. , Zaidi Sayyed K. , Stein Gary S.
Published: September 2016

A novel role for phenotypic transcription factors in very early differentiation was recently observed and merits further study to elucidate what role this precocious expression may have in development. The RUNX1 transcription factor exhibits selective and transient upregulation during early mesenchymal differentiation. In contrast to phenotype‐associated transcriptional control of gene expression to establish and sustain hematopoietic/myeloid lineage identity, precocious expression of RUNX1 is functionally linked to control of an epithelial to mesenchymal transition that is obligatory for development. This early RUNX1 expression spike provides a paradigm for precocious expression of a phenotypic transcription factor that invites detailed mechanistic study to fully understand its biological importance. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 953–958, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Vertebrate Lonesome Kinase Regulated Extracellular Matrix Protein Phosphorylation, Cell Shape, and Adhesion in Trabecular Meshwork Cells
Authors: Maddala Rupalatha , Skiba Nikolai P. , Rao Ponugoti Vasantha
Published: September 2016

Glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness, is commonly associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) due to impaired aqueous humor (AH) drainage through the trabecular meshwork (TM). Although dysregulated production and organization of extracellular matrix (ECM) is presumed to increase resistance to AH outflow and elevate IOP by altering TM cell contractile and adhesive properties, it is not known whether regulation of ECM protein phosphorylation via the secretory vertebrate lonesome kinase (VLK) influences TM cellular characteristics. Here, we tested this possibility. Experiments carried out in this study reveal that the 32 kDa protein is a prominent VLK isoform detectable in lysates and conditioned media (CM) of human TM cells. Increased levels of VLK were observed in CM of TM cells subjected to cyclic mechanical stretch, or treated with dexamethasone, TGF‐β2, and TM cells expressing constitutively active RhoA GTPase. Downregulation of VLK expression in TM cells using siRNA decreased tyrosine phosphorylation (TyrP) of ECM proteins and focal adhesions, and induced changes in cell shape in association with reduced levels of actin stress fibers and phospho‐paxillin. VLK was also demonstrated to regulate TGF‐β2‐induced TyrP of ECM proteins. Taken together, these results suggest that VLK secretion can be regulated by external cues, intracellular signal proteins, and mechanical stretch, and VLK can in turn regulate TyrP of ECM proteins secreted by TM cells and control cell shape, actin stress fibers, and focal adhesions. These observations indicate a potential role for VLK in homeostasis of AH outflow and IOP, and in the pathobiology of glaucoma. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 2447–2460, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
TNT‐Induced Phagocytosis: Tunneling Nanotubes Mediate the Transfer of Pro‐Phagocytic Signals From Apoptotic to Viable Cells
Authors: Bittins Margarethe , Wang Xiang
Published: September 2016

The exposure of phosphatidylserine (PS) on the surface membrane of apoptotic cells triggers the recruitment of phagocytic receptors and subsequently results in uptake by phagocytes. Here we describe how apoptotic cells can use intercellular membrane nanotubes to transfer exposed PS to neighboring viable cells, and thus deposit an “eat‐me” tag on the viable cells. Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) connected UV‐treated apoptotic rat pheochromocytoma PC12 cells with neighboring untreated cells. These TNTs were composed of PS‐exposed plasma membrane and facilitated the transfer of the membrane from apoptotic to viable cells. Other pro‐phagocytic signals, such as oxidized phospholipids and calreticulin, were also transferred to viable cells. In addition, anti‐phagocytic signal CD47 presenting on the plasma membrane of viable cells was masked by the transferred PS‐membrane. Confocal imaging revealed an increase of phagocytosis of viable PC12 cells by murine RAW264.7 macrophages when the viable PC12 cells were cocultured with UV‐treated PC12 cells. Treatment with 50 nM cytochalasin D would abolish TNTs and correspondingly inhibit this phagocytosis of the viable cells. Our study indicates that exposed‐PS membrane is delivered from apoptotic to viable cells through TNTs. This transferred membrane may act as a pro‐phagocytic signal for macrophages to induce phagocytosis of viable cells in a situation where they are in the vicinity of apoptotic cells. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 2271–2279, 2017. © 2016 The Authors. Journal of Cellular Physiology Published by Wiley Periodicals Inc.
A kidney injury molecule‐1 (Kim‐1) gene reporter in a mouse artificial chromosome: the responsiveness to cisplatin toxicity in immortalized mouse kidney S3 cells
Authors: Kokura Kenji , Kuromi Yasushi , Endo Takeshi , Anzai Naohiko , Kazuki Yasuhiro , Oshimura Mitsuo , Ohbayashi Tetsuya
Published: September 2016

Background

Kidney injury molecule‐1 (Kim‐1) has been validated as a urinary biomarker for acute and chronic renal damage. The expression of Kim‐1 mRNA is also activated by acute kidney injury induced by cisplatin in rodents and humans. To date, the measurement of Kim‐1 expression has not fully allowed the detection of in vitro cisplatin nephrotoxicity in immortalized culture cells, such as human kidney‐2 cells and immortalized proximal tubular epithelial cells.

Methods

We measured the augmentation of Kim‐1 mRNA expression after the addition of cisplatin using immortalized S3 cells established from the kidneys of transgenic mice harboring temperature‐sensitive large T antigen from Simian virus 40.

Results

A mouse Kim‐1 gene luciferase reporter in conjunction with an Hprt gene reporter detected cisplatin‐induced nephrotoxicity in S3 cells. These two reporter genes were contained in a mouse artificial chromosome, and two luciferases that emitted different wavelengths were used to monitor the respective gene expression. However, the Kim‐1 reporter gene failed to respond to cisplatin in A9 fibroblast cells that contained the same reporter mouse artificial chromosome, suggesting cell type‐specificity for activation of the reporter.

Conclusions

We report the feasibility of measuring in vitro cisplatin nephrotoxicity using a Kim‐1 reporter gene in S3 cells.
Long‐term outcomes after revision of Kasai portoenterostomy for biliary atresia
Authors: Shirota Chiyoe , Uchida Hiroo , Ono Yasuyuki , Murase Naruhiko , Tainaka Takahisa , Yokota Kazuki , Oshima Kazuo , Shirotsuki Ryo , Hinoki Akinari , Ando Hisami
Published: September 2016

Background

The indications for and efficacy of revision of portoenterostomy (PE) for biliary atresia (BA) needs to be reassessed in an era of liver transplantation. We therefore reviewed the long‐term outcomes following revision of PE.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of the medical records of patients with BA who underwent PE and revision of PE. We investigated the role of revision on outcomes of jaundice‐free native liver survival (approval number: 2015–0094).

Results

Portoenterostomy was performed in 76 patients, among whom 22 underwent revision. Revision for recurrent jaundice was performed for four of 51 patients, who were transiently jaundice free after initial PE, but only one achieved native liver survival. Revision for repeated cholangitis in two patients achieved native liver survival over 10 years. Revision was performed in 16 of the 25 patients in whom initial PE failed; of these, four survived with their native liver (ages 3, 12, 12, and 14 years). The PE revision did not significantly affect liver transplantation duration and survival outcome.

Conclusions

Revision of PE was suitable for repeated cholangitis. Revision for recurrent jaundice, regardless of whether the initial PE was successful, could have a limited but positive effect in preventing long‐term progressive liver failure.
Quantification of peptides using N‐terminal isotope coding and C‐terminal derivatization for sensitive analysis by micro liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Sakaguchi Yohei , Kinumi Tomoya , Takatsu Akiko
Published: September 2016

Stable isotope‐coding coupled with mass spectrometry is a popular method for quantitative proteomics and peptide quantification. However, the efficiency of the derivatization reaction at a particular functional group, especially in complex structures, can affect accuracy. Here, we present a dual functional‐group derivatization of bioactive peptides followed by micro liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS). By separating the sensitivity‐enhancement and isotope‐coding derivatization reactions, suitable chemistries can be chosen. The peptide amino groups were reductively alkylated with acetaldehyde or acetaldehyde‐d4 to afford N‐alkylated products with different masses. This process is simple, quick and high‐yield, and accurate comparative analysis can be achieved for the mass‐differentiated peptides. Then, the carboxyl groups were derivatized with 1‐(2‐pyrimidinyl)piperazine to increase MS/MS sensitivity. Angiotensins I–IV, bradykinin and neurotensin were analyzed after online solid phase extraction by micro LC‐MS/MS. In all instances, a greater than 17‐fold increase in sensitivity was achieved, compared with the analyses of the underivatized peptides. Furthermore, the values obtained from the present method were in agreement with the result from isotope dilution quantification using isotopically labeled angiotensin I [Asp‐Arg‐(Val‐d8)‐Tyr‐Ile‐His‐Pro‐(Phe‐d8)‐His‐Leu]. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
IL28B genetic variation and cytomegalovirus‐specific T‐cell immunity in allogeneic stem cell transplant recipients
Authors: Corrales Isabel , Solano Carlos , Amat Paula , Giménez Estela , de la Cámara Rafael , Nieto José , López Javier , García‐Noblejas Ana , Piñana José Luis , Navarro David
Published: September 2016

A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), 3 kbp upstream of the IL28B gene (rs12979860; C/T), has been shown to influence the dynamics of cytomegalovirus (CMV) replication in allogeneic stem cell transplant recipients (Allo‐SCT). We investigated whether this SNP had any effect on the dynamics of CMV‐specific T‐cell immunity in these patients. CMV pp65/IE‐1 IFN‐γ CD8+ and CD4+ T cells were enumerated by flow cytometry in 85 patients with no prior CMV DNAemia (group A) and in 57 after the onset of CMV DNAemia (group B). Donor IL28B genotype was determined by real‐time PCR and plasma levels of IL‐28B were quantitated by ELISA. CMV‐specific T‐cell counts and plasma IL‐28B levels in patients in group A were not significantly different among the IL28B genotype groups. Patients harboring the donor IL28B T/T genotype appeared to expand CMV‐specific IFN‐γ CD8+ cells to a higher level in response to viral replication than their C/T and C/C counterparts. Fewer patients in the T/T group received pre‐emptive antiviral therapy (P = 0.05). Overall, a significant inverse correlation was observed between median IL‐28B levels measured prior to the CMV DNAemia onset and the level of CMV‐specific CD8+ T cells enumerated after detection of CMV DNAemia (σ = −0.471; P = 0.013). In summary, the data suggested that the protective effect attributed to the rs12979860 SNP minor T allele could be mediated, at least in part, by eliciting robust CMV‐specific T‐cell responses. J. Med. Virol. 89:685–695, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
miR‐148a and miR‐30a limit HCV‐dependent suppression of the lipid droplet protein, ADRP, in HCV infected cell models
Authors: El‐Ekiaby Nada M. , Mekky Radwa Y. , Riad Sarah E. , Elhelw Dalia S. , El‐Sayed Mohammed , Esmat Gamal , Abdelaziz Ahmed I.
Published: September 2016

Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) promotes lipid droplet (LD) formation and perturbs the expression of the LD associated PAT proteins ADRP and TIP47, to promote its own lifecycle. HCV enhances TIP47 and suppresses ADRP by displacing it from LD surface in infected cell models. We have previously shown that suppression of TIP47 by miR‐148a and miR‐30a decreased intracellular LDs and HCV RNA. Thus, this study aimed at examining whether this microRNA‐mediated suppression of HCV would limit HCV‐dependent displacement of ADRP from LDs. ADRP expression was examined in 21 HCV‐infected liver biopsies and 9 healthy donor liver tissues as well as in HCV‐infected Huh7 cells using qRT‐PCR. miR‐148a and miR‐30a expression was manipulated using specific oligos in JFH‐1 infected, oleic acid treated cells, to study their impact on ADRP expression using qRT‐PCR, and immunofluorescence microscopy. Intracellular HCV RNA was assessed using qRT‐PCR. ADRP is down regulated in patients as well as HCVcc‐JFH‐I infected cell models. Forcing the expression of both miRNAs induced ADRP on the mRNA and protein levels. This study shows that HCV suppresses hepatic ADRP expression in infected patients and cell lines. Forcing the expression of miR‐148a and miR‐30a limits the suppressive effect of HCV on ADRP. J. Med. Virol. 89:653–659, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Educating local radial basis functions using the highest gradient of interest in three dimensional geometries
Authors: Palacio‐Betancur Viviana , Villada‐Gil Stiven , de Pablo Juan J. , Hernández‐Ortiz Juan P.
Published: September 2016

We present a novel methodology to effectively localize radial basis function approximation methods in three dimensions. The local scheme requires shape parameter‐dependent functions that can be used to approximate gradients of scattered data and to solve partial differential operators. The optimum shape parameter is obtained from the highest gradient of interest, where a known analytical function, when boundary conditions are not present, or a shape parameter‐free global approximation are used to educate the localized scheme. The later option is applicable to problems where the operator needs to be solved multiple times, like in time evolution or stochastic integration. Past shape parameter's optimizations, for two‐dimensional domains, based on the condition number of the interpolant matrix, were unable to provide satisfactory approximations. The applicability of our method is illustrated in the context of an analytical expression interpolation and during a Ginzburg–Landau relaxation of a free energy functional. In general, the optimum shape parameter depends on geometry, node distribution, and density, whereas the approximation errors decrease as the node density and the local stencil size increase. The effective localization of radial basis functions motivates its use in moving boundary problems and accelerates solutions through sparse matrix solvers. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nitsche's method for Helmholtz problems with embedded interfaces
Authors: Zou Zilong , Aquino Wilkins , Harari Isaac
Published: September 2016

In this work, we use Nitsche's formulation to weakly enforce kinematic constraints at an embedded interface in Helmholtz problems. Allowing embedded interfaces in a mesh provides significant ease for discretization, especially when material interfaces have complex geometries. We provide analytical results that establish the well‐posedness of Helmholtz variational problems and convergence of the corresponding finite element discretizations when Nitsche's method is used to enforce kinematic constraints. As in the analysis of conventional Helmholtz problems, we show that the inf‐sup constant remains positive provided that the Nitsche's stabilization parameter is judiciously chosen. We then apply our formulation to several 2D plane‐wave examples that confirm our analytical findings. Doing so, we demonstrate the asymptotic convergence of the proposed method and show that numerical results are in accordance with the theoretical analysis. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Separation of phenanthrene/N‐tetradecane mixtures (model diesel) via pervaporation using an aromatic polyimide membrane
Authors: Roychowdhury Sayan , Mitra Debarati
Published: September 2016

The present investigation focuses on the separation of phenanthrene (a polyaromatic hydrocarbon) from n‐tetradecane (model diesel composition) via pervaporation using a fabricated aromatic polyimide membrane. The experiments demonstrate preferential permeation of the polyaromatic for all films within the studied experimental range. The influence of operating temperature, membrane pretreatment time, membrane composition, and membrane thickness on the pervaporative performance were investigated. Statistical software Design Expert 7.1.4 was used to derive the regression equation describing the effect of the above mentioned factors on the pervaporation separation index. These factors are optimized using response surface methodology. The highest value of pervaporation separation index obtained is 1.5277 kg m−2 h−1 and the corresponding optimized condition is: operating temperature 493 K, pretreatment time 16.55 h with a membrane composition of 2.76 wt% of phenanthrene in polyamic acid and thickness 53.22 µm. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 57:392–402, 2017. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Time‐dependent calculations on systems of chemical interest: Dynamical and kinetic approaches
Authors: Skouteris Dimitrios
Published: September 2016

We illustrate the state of the art in time‐dependent calculations on systems of chemical interest. In particular, our exposition covers the Gaussian multiconfiguration time‐dependent Hartree/variational multiconfiguration Gaussian approach in nuclear dynamics, where the scope is that of explaining dynamical effects in various physicochemical processes. Conversely, the Rice–Ramsperger–Kassel–Marcus/master equation kinetic methods are also examined, used to calculate rate constants of gas phase processes (used in the modeling of combustion, atmospheric, and astrochemical processes).
Robust output‐control for uncertain linear systems: Homogeneous differentiator‐based observer approach
Authors: Ríos H. , Mera M. , Efimov D. , Polyakov A.
Published: September 2016

This paper deals with the design of a robust control for linear systems with external disturbances using a homogeneous differentiator‐based observer based on a implicit Lyapunov function approach. Sufficient conditions for stability of the closed‐loop system in the presence of external disturbances are obtained and represented by linear matrix inequalities. The parameter tuning for both controller and observer is formulated as a semi‐definite programming problem with linear matrix inequalities constraints. Simulation results illustrate the feasibility of the proposed approach and some improvements with respect to the classic linear observer approach. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Efficacy of remote telemetry data loggers for landscape‐scale monitoring: A case study of American martens
Authors: Sirén Alexej P. K. , Maynard Daniel S. , Kilborn Jillian R. , Pekins Peter J.
Published: September 2016

Remote telemetry data loggers are commonly used for monitoring wildlife species. Although remote telemetry data loggers provide reliable microhabitat use data, few studies have used them to evaluate landscape‐scale, temporal, and spatial habitat use. We installed 3 data loggers along a mountain ridgeline that was being developed for a commercial wind farm in northern New Hampshire, USA, to monitor use of a high‐elevation forest by American martens (Martes americana). We tested 1) the efficacy of data loggers to record presence–absence and index space use in a 6.75‐km2 area, validating marten locations using radiotelemetry and camera traps; and 2) whether there were diel and seasonal biases of data logger detections. As a case study, we evaluated temporal and spatial habitat‐use hypotheses with respect to variations in vegetation cover (leaf‐on or leaf‐off) and astronomical seasons using data from 11 martens monitored for nearly 2 years (6 Feb 2011–23 Dec 2012). Data loggers recorded presence–absence of radiocollared martens across 80% (240 of 299) of the trials within the study area with few false positives (4%; 19 of 494 trials). Detection probability and spatial use were most influenced by elevation, distance to data loggers, and line‐of‐sight view. We did not detect a seasonal bias but data loggers recorded fewer nocturnal detections. We recorded 118,120 detections of radiocollared martens, most of which occurred during leaf‐off seasons (87%; 102,931). Spatial use declined significantly (β = −0.54, P = 0.04) during the first leaf‐on season, corresponding with the construction phase of the wind farm project, and remained lower throughout the study. Diel use was explained by an astronomical calendar with greater nocturnal use during autumn and winter. Our results show that remote telemetry data loggers provided accurate spatiotemporal data for landscape‐scale habitat monitoring, overcoming many of the problems with telemetry data—such as limited sampling period and bias—that can compromise measurements of space use. We suggest incorporating remote telemetry data loggers for space use and disturbance studies of wildlife species. © 2016 The Wildlife Society.
Comparison of treatment effort for immunocontraceptive vaccines and surgical sterilization in deer
Authors: Evans Charles S. , DeNicola Anthony J. , Warren Robert J.
Published: September 2016

Fertility control via immunocontraceptive vaccines or surgical sterilization often is considered for the management of deer populations in urban–suburban communities in the United States. Immunocontraceptive vaccines have been approved for hand‐injection in deer and it has been suggested dart‐injection would be more efficient because of added effort associated with live capture. Vaccines currently exhibit nonresponder rates in deer and require booster shots in following years to prolong efficacy, whereas surgical sterilization has 100% efficacy for the entirety of the life of the individual. However, sterilization is considered less efficient because of additional person‐hours required during the first year of a project. Therefore, we recorded person‐hours required for the capture process (capture, search, and handling) for treating deer via hand‐injection and surgical sterilization during winter of 2013, 2014, or 2015 at sites in North Carolina, California, Maryland, New York, and Virginia, USA. These data were recorded for 335 deer across 6 urban–suburban communities. Capture effort consisted of pursuit (i.e., person‐hours to acquire shot opportunities) and search and handling (i.e., S&H; person‐hours to locate anesthetized deer and vaccinate the individual). On average, 91% and 9% of person‐hours were for pursuit and S&H, respectively. Surgical sterilization added an average of 153% to person‐hours required for the capture process; however, considering lower efficacy and retreatment requirements of vaccines, sterilization may be more efficient for long‐term control of deer in urban–suburban communities. Deer behavior varied across our 6 study sites and affected effort—more approachable deer required less effort to capture and treat with fertility control. Therefore, future research should include modelling deer behavior, effort, and efficacy over the long term to identify which situations are best suited for application of vaccine versus sterilization treatments in areas where lethal management of deer is impractical. © 2016 The Wildlife Society.