bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Statistical analysis of the relationship between spring soil moisture and summer precipitation in East China
Authors: Meng Lei , Long Di , Quiring Steven M. , Shen Yanjun
Published: July 2013

The relationship between spring soil moisture (SM) and summer precipitation in East China (EC) was examined using monthly temperature and precipitation data and ERA‐40 SM data. EC was divided into five different climate regions to investigate how SM‐precipitation correlations vary under different climatic conditions. Both local and remote impacts of spring SM in EC were assessed. It was found that spring SM had significant correlations with summer precipitation in the East, Southeast, and Southwest regions, but not in the Northwest and Northeast region. This is possibly because correlations between summer precipitation and temperature (as a surrogate to SM–evaporation relationship) were statistically significant in the first three regions, but not in the Northwest and Northeast regions. Statistically significant positive correlations between SM and summer precipitation were found in the East and Southeast regions and statistically significant negative correlations were in the Southwest region. The negative SM‐precipitation relationship is possibly because the Southwest region is primarily an energy‐controlled regime. Significant SM‐precipitation correlations were usually associated with strong SM persistence and precipitation autocorrelation. Our results suggest that strong correlation between spring SM and summer precipitation might be due to the combination of SM–precipitation interactions and precipitation autocorrelation. Our study also demonstrated that there are strong temporal variations in SM–precipitation relationships in the regions where significant correlations occurred. May SM had significant positive correlations (approximately 0.6) with summer precipitation over most of the study period in East region. Strong negative correlation (approximately −0.6) was found in Southwest during 1980s‐1990s due to strong SM persistence and strong precipitation autocorrelation in the same period. This suggested that SM–precipitation relationships vary over time even in regions with strong coupling. Multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that SM persistence had the largest contribution to summer precipitation variation in East region and April precipitation was the dominant predictor of summer precipitation variations in Southeast and Southwest regions. Statistical analysis of SM and precipitation relationships should consider both SM persistence and precipitation autocorrelation. Results from this study can be used to improve the predictability of droughts.
The study of the structure and bioactivity of the B2O3 • Na2O • P2O5 system
Authors: Hidi I. J. , Melinte G. , Stefan R. , Bindea M. , Baia L.
Published: July 2013

In this study, we have investigated calcium and silicate‐free samples over a wide compositional range in the xB2O3·30 Na2O·(70−x)P2O5 system, with 0 ≤ x ≤ 70 mol%, in order to determine the influence of the chemical composition on their structure and bioactive response in simulated body fluid. Information related to the chemical structures present in the network was obtained by means of Raman and infrared spectroscopy. For samples containing small amounts of P2O5, boron structures are preponderant. Upon increasing the phosphorus content, the samples' network is based on phosphate chains linked by boron groups through ‘P–O–B’ bridges. For high concentration of P2O5, the Q3 units form three‐dimensional network, whereas Q2 units assist the chain formation. Regarding the in vitro assessment of bioactivity, the clear print of PO4 asymmetric bending vibrations of apatite‐like layer in the 540–680 cm−1 spectral domain, the scanning electron micrographs and energy dispersive x‐ray analysis spectra demonstrate that the studied borophosphate samples exhibit good bioactive response only for certain chemical compositions. More exactly, the highest bioactivity is obtained for 30% and 20% B2O3 (mol%) after 3 and 11 days of immersion, respectively. Therefore, the samples with 20–30 mol% boron content are valuable candidates that can be used as materials for tissue engineering applications. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Retention behavior of isomeric triacylglycerols in silver‐ion HPLC: Effects of mobile phase composition and temperature
Authors: Lísa Miroslav , Denev Rumen , Holčapek Michal
Published: July 2013

A systematic study of the retention behavior of isomeric triacylglycerols (TGs) in silver‐ion HPLC on a ChromSpher Lipids column has been performed between 10 to 40°C using the most widespread hexane‐ and dichloromethane‐based mobile phases. The randomization of mono‐acyl TG standards and the random esterification of glycerol with fatty acids are employed to produce mixtures of TG isomers. The mobile phase composition has no influence on the general retention pattern, but significant differences in the retention order of double bond (DB) positional isomers in hexane and dichloromethane mobile phases are described and compared with the previous literature data. Saturated TGs with fatty acyl chain length from C7:0 to C22:0 are partially separated using the hexane mobile phase but not at all with the dichloromethane mobile phase. The hexane mobile phase enables at least partial resolution of TG regioisomers with up to seven DBs, while the resolution of only ALA/AAL and ALnA/AALn isomers is achieved with the dichloromethane mobile phase. The effect of temperature differs significantly depending on the mobile phase composition. Retention times of TGs increase with increasing temperature in the hexane mobile phase, while an opposite effect is observed for the dichloromethane mobile phase.
Management of sinonasal complications after endoscopic orbital decompression for Graves' orbitopathy
Authors: Antisdel Jastin L. , Gumber Divya , Holmes Janalee , Sindwani Raj
Published: July 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Endoscopic orbital decompression (EnOD) has proven to be safe and effective for the treatment of Graves' orbitopathy; however, complications do occur. Although the literature focuses on orbital complications, sinonasal complications including postobstructive sinusitis, hemorrhage, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak can also be challenging to manage. This study examines the incidence and management of sinonasal complications in these patients.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Methods

Clinical data, surgical findings, and postoperative outcomes were reviewed of patients who underwent EnOD for Graves' disease between March 2004 and November 2010. The incidence and management of postoperative sinonasal complications requiring an intervention were examined.

Results

The study group consisted of 50 consecutive patients (86 decompression procedures): 11 males and 39 females with an average age of 48.6 years (SD = 12.9). Incidence of significant sinonasal complications was 3.5% (5/86): with one patient experiencing postoperative hemorrhage requiring operative management, three patients with postoperative obstructive sinusitis, and one patient with nasal obstruction secondary to nasal adhesions that required lysis. The maxillary sinus was the most commonly involved and was managed using the mega‐antrostomy technique. In the case of frontal sinusitis, an endoscopic transaxillary approach was utilized to avoid injury to decompressed orbital contents. All complications were successfully managed without sequelae.

Conclusion

Sinonasal complications following EnOD are uncommon. In the setting of a decompressed orbit, even routine types of postoperative issues can be challenging and require additional considerations. Successful management of postoperative sinusitis related to outflow obstruction may require more extensive approaches and novel techniques.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 123:2094–2098, 2013
Effectiveness of Hydromulching to Reduce Runoff and Erosion in a Recently Burnt Pine Plantation in Central Portugal
Authors: Prats Sérgio Alegre , Malvar Maruxa Cortizo , Vieira Diana Catarina Simões , MacDonald Lee , Keizer Jan Jacob
Published: July 2013

Forest fires can greatly increase runoff and surface erosion rates. Post‐fire soil erosion control measures are intended to minimize this response and facilitate ecosystem recovery. In a few recent cases, hydromulch has been applied, and this consists of a mixture of organic fibers, water and seeds. The objectives of this research were to (i) analyze the effectiveness of hydromulch in reducing post‐fire runoff and sediment production and (ii) determine the underlying processes and mechanisms that control post‐fire runoff and erosion. After a wildfire occurred in August 2008, 14 plots ranging in size from 0·25 to 10 m2 were installed on a 25 degree slope in a burnt pine plantation that had also been subjected to salvage logging. Half of the plots were randomly selected and treated with hydromulch. One of two slope strips adjacent to the plots was also hydromulched and used for monitoring some soil properties. Measurements made in each of the first 3 years following the wildfire included (i) the plot‐scale runoff volumes and sediment yields; (ii) soil shear strength, soil moisture, and soil water repellency; and (iii) surface cover. The hydromulch reduced overland flow volume by 70% and soil erosion by 83%. The decrease in runoff was attributed to the increase in soil water retention capacity and the decrease in soil water repellency, whereas the reduction in soil erosion was initially attributed to the protective cover provided by the hydromulch and lately to an enhanced vegetative regrowth in the third year after burning. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cooperative Entrapment of Xanthene Dyes by a Core‐Engineered Unimolecular Micelle
Authors: Chen Jian , Lai Yi , Wan Decheng , Jin Ming , Pu Hongting
Published: July 2013

The cooperative entrapment of a specified guest is only available for a well‐defined host. Here it is reported that a common host conducts cooperative entrapment of guests. Alkylation of a hyperbranched polyethylenimine (PEI) by epoxy poly(ethylene glycol) monomethyl ethers (PEG1) leads to a water‐soluble PEI@PEG1 (H1). The multifunctional core of H1 is modified to result in H2–H4, with different polarities and ionic charges. H1–H4 exist as unimolecular micelles, and can effectively entrap dyes of rose bengal (RB) or eosin Y (EY). Experiments indicate that the guest dyes are exclusively accommodated in the cores of H1–H4. The encapsulation proceeds in a cooperative manner, as analysis by the Hill equation (n > 1). It is found that the cooperativity stems from the enhanced π–π stacking of the dyes upon encapsulation, and a polar and ionic environment favors the cooperativity. This is the first example of a cooperative entrapment being realized by a common host.

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A Latex‐Based Route to Disperse Carbon Nanotubes in Poly(2,6‐Dimethyl‐1,4‐Phenylene Ether)/Polystyrene Blends
Authors: Grossiord Nadia , Noordover Bart A. J. , Miltner Hans E. , Hoeks Theo , Alexandre Virginie , Loos Joachim , van Mele Bruno , Meuldijk Jan , Koning Cor E.
Published: July 2013

Electrically conductive composites consisting of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in a poly(2,6‐dimethyl‐1,4‐phenylene ether)/polystyrene (PPE/PS) blend are prepared by latex technology. The latter consists of 4 steps: preparation of an aqueous dispersion of CNTs, mixing with a polymer latex, solvent removal by freeze–drying and processing. In the first route, PPE/PS blend latexes are directly used to prepare nanocomposites by latex technology. The CNT/PPE/PS composites display an increased glass transition temperature compared to unfilled material and a percolation threshold as low as 0.3 wt% of CNTs. Secondly, CNT/PS masterbatches prepared by latex technology are mixed with PS/PPE blend pellets by extrusion. This approach constitutes a potential first step towards an industrially viable process.
Shear‐Induced Orientation of Gyroid PS‐b‐P4VP(PDP) Supramolecules
Authors: Vukovic Ivana , Friedrich Heiner , Merino Daniel Hermida , Portale Giuseppe , ten Brinke Gerrit , Loos Katja
Published: July 2013

The phase behavior of block copolymer based supramolecular complexes polystyrene‐block‐poly(4‐vinylpyridine) (PS‐b‐P4VP) and amphiphilic pentadecylphenol (PDP) molecules resembles the phase behavior of conventional block copolymers. Several PS‐b‐P4VP(PDP) complexes are found to self‐assemble into gyroid nanostructures. Typically, the grains are randomly oriented with a maximal size of several micrometers. Here, the orientation of a gyroid PS‐b‐P4VP(PDP) complex upon shearing is reported. It is found that the (111) gyroid lattice direction orients parallel to the shear direction after only several seconds of large amplitude oscillatory shearing. Oriented gyroid complexes can be used as templates for the preparation of metal nanofoams with improved ordering with potentially superior properties.

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One‐Pot Template‐Free Synthesis of Monodisperse Hollow Hydrogel Microspheres and their Resulting Properties
Authors: Lim Hyung‐Seok , Kwon Eunji , Lee Moonjoo , Moo Lee Young , Suh Kyung‐Do
Published: July 2013

Monodisperse poly(methacrylic acid/ethyleneglycoldimethacrylate) (MAA/EGDMA) hollow microcapsules, which exhibit pH‐responsive behavior, are prepared by diffusion of cationic surfactants and hydrophobic interaction. During the association of the negatively charged hydrogel microspheres and an oppositely charged surfactant (cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, CTA(+)B), the hydrophobic polymer‐surfactant complexes that form are separated from the internal water; consequently, a hollow structure can be formed. Confocal laser scanning microscopy, UV spectro­scopy and zeta potential are employed to study the formation of the hollow structure during the diffusion of the cationic surfactant. The controlled release behavior of methylene blue as a model drug from the as‐prepared poly(MAA/EGDMA) microcapsules with a hollow structure is investigated under different pH conditions. The hollow structure can be retained, even during repetitive pH changes.

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Computational Investigations of a Peptide‐Modified Dendrimer Interacting with Lipid Membranes
Authors: Tu Chen‐kun , Chen Kang , Tian Wen‐de , Ma Yu‐qiang
Published: July 2013

Understanding the interactions of dendrimers as delivery vectors with biomembranes is important for functional optimization. Here, coarse‐grained molecular dynamics simulations are employed to study the interactions between a surface‐modified dendrimer with short peptides and lipid bilayers under physiological and low pH conditions. The peptide consists of three histidines (H) with the pH‐sensitive property and an arginine (R). It is found that the peptide‐dendrimer conjugate either adheres to or penetrates through the negatively charged, asymmetrical bilayer, dependent on the pH value. Calculation of the potential of mean force shows that the penetration is energy favorable at low pH. The conjugate can lead to membrane thinning with enhanced permeability. Inspired by the results, a possible route is proposed for gene delivery using the non‐specific electrostatic interaction adjusted by the pH environment.

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Hydroxyalkylation and Polyether Polyol Grafting of Graphene Tailored for Graphene/Polyurethane Nanocomposites
Authors: Appel Anna‐Katharina , Thomann Ralf , Mülhaupt Rolf
Published: July 2013

Graphene functionalization by hydroxyalkylation and grafting with polyether polyols enables polyurethane (PU) nanocomposites formation by in situ polymerization with isocyanates combined with effective covalent interfacial coupling. Functionalized graphene (FG) hydroxylation is achieved either by alkylation, transesterification, or grafting of thermally reduced graphite oxide. In the presence of K2CO3 as catalyst the reaction of FG‐OH with ethylene carbonate at 180 °C affords hydroxyethylated FG, whereas transesterification with castor oil produces riconoleiate‐modified FG polyols. In the “grafting‐from” process, FG‐alkoholate macro initiators initiate the graft polymerization of propylene oxide to produce hybrid FG polyols containing 38 and 59 wt% oligopropylene oxide. In the “grafting‐to” process 3‐ethyl‐3‐hydroxymethyl‐oxetane is cationically polymerized onto FG‐OH, producing novel hyperbranched FG‐based polyether polyols. Whereas hydroxylation and grafting of FG greatly improve FG dispersion in organic solvents, polyols and even PU, as confirmed by transmission electron microscopy, matrix reinforcement of FG/PU is impaired by increasing alkyl chain length and polyol graft copolymer content.

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Chemical Control of Yeast Cell Division by Cross‐Linked Shells of Catechol‐Grafted Polyelectrolyte Multilayers
Authors: Lee Juno , Yang Sung Ho , Hong Seok‐Pyo , Hong Daewha , Lee Haeshin , Lee Hee‐Yoon , Kim Yang‐Gyun , Choi Insung S.
Published: July 2013

The chemical control of cell division has attracted much attention in the areas of single cell‐based biology and high‐throughput screening platforms. A mussel‐inspired cytocompatible encapsulation method for achieving a “cell‐division control” with cross‐linked layer‐by‐layer (LbL) shells is developed. Catechol‐grafted polyethyleneimine and hyaluronic acid are chosen as polyelectrolytes for the LbL process, and the cross‐linking of polyelectrolytes is performed at pH 8.5. Cell division is controlled by the number of the LbL nanolayers and cross‐linking reaction. We also suggest a new measuring unit, , for quantifying “cell‐division timing” based on microbial growth kinetics.

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Sortase‐Catalyzed Initiator Attachment Enables High Yield Growth of a Stealth Polymer from the C Terminus of a Protein
Authors: Qi Yizhi , Amiram Miriam , Gao Weiping , McCafferty Dewey G. , Chilkoti Ashutosh
Published: July 2013

Conventional methods for synthesizing protein/peptide–polymer conjugates, as a means to improve the pharmacological properties of therapeutic biomolecules, typically have drawbacks including low yield, non‐trivial separation of conjugates from reactants, and lack of site‐ specificity, which results in heterogeneous products with significantly compromised bioactivity. To address these limitations, the use of sortase A from Staphylococcus aureus is demonstrated to site‐specifically attach an initiator solely at the C‐terminus of green fluorescent protein (GFP), followed by in situ growth of a stealth polymer, poly(oligo(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate) by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). Sortase‐catalyzed initiator attachment proceeds with high specificity and near‐complete (≈95%) product conversion. Subsequent in situ ATRP in aqueous buffer produces 1:1 stoichiometric conjugates with >90% yield, low dispersity, and no denaturation of the protein. This approach introduces a simple and useful method for high yield synthesis of protein/peptide–polymer conjugates.

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Anemia is not a predictor of free flap failure: A review of NSQIP data
Authors: Mlodinow Alexei S. , Ver Halen Jon P. , Rambachan Akshar , Gaido Jessica , Kim John Y.S.
Published: July 2013

Background

Thrombosis is a common cause of flap failure in microvascular tissue transfer, which questions the effects of anemia on this outcome. This article seeks to contribute a large, multi‐institutional data analysis to this debate.

Methods

Free tissue transfer patients were identified in the National Surgical Quality Improvement database through a specified Current Procedural Terminology algorithm. Bivariate analysis compared anemic and nonanemic groups with respect to flap failure and other outcomes. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine risk factors for flap failure.

Results

Of the 864 patients who met inclusion criteria, 244 were anemic and 620 were not. Bivariate analysis showed no significant difference between groups with respect to flap failure (3.28% vs. 4.03%, P = 0.0603). Multivariate regression analysis supported this (OR 95% CI = 0.371–1.912).

Conclusions

These findings, based on the largest sample in the literature, show anemia is neither a predictor of free tissue transfer failure nor is it protective. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 33:432–438, 2013.
Treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head by using the greater trochanteric bone flap with double vascular pedicles
Authors: Wang Benjie , Zhao Dewei , Liu Baoyi , Wang Wei
Published: July 2013

The use of the bone flap transfer has been reported to be successful in treatment of patients with early to medium stage (Ficat and Arlet stage I‐III) osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). We examined the vascular anatomy and blood supply of the greater trochanter area and evaluated the feasibility of revascularization of the femoral head by using the bone flap pedicled with transverse and gluteus medius branches of the lateral circumflex femoral artery. Based on the anatomy study, from January 2002 to May 2004, 32 ONFH patients were treated with the greater trochanteric bone flap pedicled with double blood vessels. Fifteen femoral heads were Ficat and Arlet stage II and 17 were stage III. The mean follow‐up was 99.5 months. Two of the 32 patients required a total hip replacement due to severe hip pain after surgery. The overall Harris hip score improved from a mean of 55.2 points to 85 points. Our data suggest the procedure is relatively easy to perform, less donor‐site morbidity and useful for young patients with stages II to III disease with or without mild collapse of the femoral head. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 33:593–599, 2013.
Tongue reconstruction with minimal donor site morbidity using a deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) free flap in a 6‐year‐old girl
Authors: Yano Tomoyuki , Okazaki Mutsumi , Kawaguchi Runa , Suesada Nobuko , Tanaka Kentaro , Kishimoto Seiji
Published: July 2013

Tongue reconstruction was performed using a deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) free flap in a 6‐year‐old girl with undifferentiated sarcoma of the tongue. After hemi‐glossectomy with upper neck dissection, a 3‐lobed DIEP free flap was used for the reconstruction. Donor site was closed primarily with suturing umbilicus in proper position. No flap loss, leakage, or infection occurred. Postoperatively, the patient was able to consume a normal diet without difficulty or aspiration and displayed good speech function. No donor site morbidity, e.g., herniation or bulging, was observed, and the patient was able to perform their normal daily activities. DIEP flaps provide a pliable skin paddle, an adequate amount of adipose tissue, and reduced donor site morbidity, even in children. We did not have any difficulty harvesting the DIEP flap or with the microvascular anastomosis. We consider DIEP free flaps to be the ideal option for pediatric tongue reconstruction. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 33:487–490, 2013.
An inverse problem for space‐fractional backward diffusion problem
Authors: Zhao Jingjun , Liu Songshu , Liu Tao
Published: July 2013

In this paper, an inverse problem for space‐fractional backward diffusion equation, which is highly ill‐posed, is considered. This problem is obtained from the classical diffusion equation by replacing the second‐order space derivative with a Riesz–Feller derivative of orderα ∈ (0,2]. We show that such a problem is severely ill‐posed, and further present a simplified Tikhonov regularization method to deal with this problem. Convergence estimate is presented under a priori choice of regularization parameter. Numerical experiments are given to illustrate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
One‐bond 29Si‐1H spin‐spin coupling constants in the series of halosilanes: benchmark SOPPA and DFT calculations, relativistic effects, and vibrational corrections
Authors: Rusakov Yury Yu. , Krivdin Leonid B.
Published: July 2013

A number of most representative second order polarization propagator approach (SOPPA) based wavefunction methods, SOPPA, SOPPA(CC2) and SOPPA(CCSD), and density functional theory (DFT) based methods, B3LYP, PBE0, KT2, and KT3, have been benchmarked in the calculation of the one‐bond 29Si‐1H spin‐spin coupling constants in the series of halosilanes SiHnX4−n (X = F, Cl, Br, I), both at the non‐relativistic and full four‐parameter Dirac's relativistic levels taking into account vibrational corrections. At the non‐relativistic level, the wavefunction methods showed much better results as compared with those of DFT. At the DFT level, out of four tested functionals, the Perdew, Burke, and Ernzerhof's PBE0 showed best performance. Taking into account, relativistic effects and vibrational corrections noticeably improves wavefunction methods results, but generally worsens DFT results. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gonadogenesis and expression pattern of the vasa gene in the sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus during early development
Authors: Yu Li , Yan Meng , Sui Juan , Sheng Wan‐Qiang , Zhang Zhi‐Feng
Published: July 2013

Vasa has been extensively used as a germ‐line marker to trace the origin and migration pathway of primordial germ cells (PGCs) in many organisms, but little work has been reported on vasa genes and the origin of PGCs in holothurians. Using in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry, vasa mRNA and protein of the sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus (Aj‐vasa) was detected in the cytoplasm of the unfertilized egg and was equally distributed in the cytoplasm of early embryos, from the two‐cell embryo to the blastula, indicating that Aj‐vasa mRNA is maternally supplied. Later, expression of both Aj‐vasa mRNA and protein centralizes gradually in newly organized structures from blastula to five‐tentacle larva, and then is restricted to PGC‐like cells of the original gonad in juveniles with 0.1‐cm body length. The structure of the gonad develops further from a simple tubular gonad in 0.5‐cm‐length juveniles to a branched gonad in 3‐cm‐length juveniles. Our findings showed that the maternal supply of the vasa gene products in A. japonicus is different from that in sea urchin Strongylocentrotus purpuratus, of echinoderm, and suggested that the specialization of PGCs is an epigenesis mechanism in A. japonicus. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 80: 744–752, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Variability in fasting lipid and glycogen contents in hepatic and skeletal muscle tissue in subjects with and without type 2 diabetes: a 1H and 13C MRS study
Authors: Stephenson M. C. , Leverton E. , Khoo E. Y. H. , Poucher S. M. , Johansson L. , Lockton J. A. , Eriksson J. W. , Mansell P. , Morris P. G. , MacDonald I. A.
Published: July 2013

The measurement of tissue lipid and glycogen contents and the establishment of normal levels of variability are important when assessing changes caused by pathology or treatment. We measured hepatic and skeletal muscle lipid and glycogen levels using 1H and 13C MRS at 3 T in groups of subjects with and without type 2 diabetes. Within‐visit reproducibility, due to repositioning and instrument errors was determined from repeat measurements made over 1 h. Natural variability was assessed from separate measurements made on three occasions over 1 month. Hepatic lipid content was greater in subjects with diabetes relative to healthy subjects (p = 0.03), whereas levels of hepatic and skeletal muscle glycogen, and of intra‐ and extra‐myocellular lipid, were similar. The single‐session reproducibility values (coefficient of variation, CV) for hepatic lipid content were 12% and 7% in groups of subjects with and without diabetes, respectively. The variability of hepatic lipid content over 1 month was greater than the reproducibility, with CV = 22% (p = 0.08) and CV = 44% (p = 0.004) in subjects with and without diabetes, respectively. Similarly, levels of variation in basal hepatic glycogen concentrations (subjects with diabetes, CV = 38%; healthy volunteers, CV = 35%) were significantly larger than single‐session reproducibility values (CV = 17%, p = 0.02 and CV = 13%, p = 0.05, respectively), indicating substantial biological changes in basal concentrations over 1 month. There was a decreasing correlation in measurements of both hepatic lipid and glycogen content with increasing time between scans. Levels of variability in intra‐ and extra‐myocellular lipid in the soleus muscle, and glycogen concentrations in the gastrocnemius muscle, tended to be larger than expected from single‐session reproducibility, although these did not reach significance. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Retracted: Increased HO‐1 levels ameliorate fatty liver development through a reduction of heme and recruitment of FGF21
Authors: Hinds Terry D. , Sodhi Komal , Meadows Charles , Fedorova Larisa , Puri Nitin , Kim Dong Hyun , Peterson Stephen J. , Shapiro Joseph , Abraham Nader G. , Kappas Attallah
Published: July 2013

Objective

Obese leptin deficient (ob/ob) mice are a model of adiposity that displays increased levels of fat, glucose, and liver lipids. Our hypothesis is that HO‐1 overexpression ameliorates fatty liver development.

Methods

Obese mice were administered cobalt protoporphyrin (CoPP) and stannic mesoporphyrin (SnMP) for 6 weeks. Heme, HO‐1, HO activity, PGC1α, FGF21, glycogen content, and lipogenesis were assessed.

Results

CoPP administration increased hepatic HO‐1 protein levels and HO activity, decreased hepatic heme, body weight gain, glucose levels, and resulted in decreased steatosis. Increased levels of HO‐1 produced a decrease in lipid droplet size, Fatty acid synthase (FAS) levels involving recruitment of FGF21, PPARα, and Glut 1. These beneficial effects were reversed by inhibition of HO activity.

Conclusion

Increased levels of HO‐1 and HO activity reduced the levels of obesity by reducing hepatic heme and lipid accumulation. These changes were manifested by decreases in cellular heme, increases in FGF21, glycogen content, and fatty liver. The beneficial effect of HO‐1 induction results from an increase in PPARα and FGF21 levels and a decrease in PGC1α, levels they were reversed by SnMP. Low levels of HO‐1 and HO activity are responsible for fatty liver.
The association between early menarche and offspring's obesity risk in early childhood was modified by gestational weight gain
Authors: Min Jungwon , Li Zhu , Liu Xia , Wang Youfa
Published: July 2013

Objectives

Study effect of maternal gestational weight gain (GWG) on the relationship between maternal menarcheal age (MMA) and child growth and overweight risk and examine socio‐demographics characteristics of excessive GWG.

Design and Methods

The relationships between GWG and MMA in 54,184 women and their children's growth trajectories during first 5 years of life (2000‐2005) in south China were tested using longitudinal data analysis with mixed models and logistic regression.

Results

Average MMA was 14.8 (1.3) years; 36.3% of the women had excessive GWG. Excessive GWG interacted with adverse effects of early MMA (if ≤ 13 years), leading to the most rapid growth in offspring and highest risk of overweight at age 4‐5 (OR = 5.2 [2.0‐13.5]) than others. Women with early menarche, high‐education, urban residence, and a routine job were more likely to have excessive GWG than the others.

Conclusions

GWG modify the association between early MMA and offspring's growth and overweight. Controlling for GWG may reduce the adverse influence of early MMA and its own adverse influence on childhood health.
Regional fat mobilization and training type on sedentary, premenopausal overweight and obese women
Authors: Carnero Elvis A. , Amati Francesca , Pinto Ronei S. , Valamatos Maria José , Mil‐Homens Pedro , Sardinha Luis B.
Published: July 2013

Objective

Little is known about the influence of different training types on relative fat mobilization with exercise. The purpose of this study was to analyze the changes induced by aerobic training (AT), resistance (RT) or a combination of both (AT+RT) on total fat mass (TFM) and regional fat mass (RFM). Further, the relative contribution of different regions, upper limbs (UL), lower limbs (LL), and trunk (Tr), were compared.

Design and Methods

Forty‐five overweight and premenopausal women were randomized in either AT, RT or AT+RT. All training groups exercised for the same duration (60 min), 3 times per week for 5 months. Body composition was estimated using dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry.

Results

TFM decreased significantly in all groups (−4.6 ± 1.9 kg; −3.8 ± 2.6 kg, and −4.7 ± 3.0 kg in AT, RT, and AT+RT groups respectively; P < 0.001). The relative contribution of FM into each segment changed significantly: TrFM represented 46.6% ± 5.8% of TFM at baseline and reduced to 43.1% ± 5.5% (P < 0.001); LLFM was 39.7% ± 5.8% vs. 41.6% ± 5.7% (P < 0.01); ULFM was 11.3% ± 1.3% vs. 12.2% ± 1.4% (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Training type did not influence changes of TFM and RFM. Fat mobilization came predominantly from Tr in all training protocols. These findings suggest that overweight and obese women can reduce TFM and RFM, independently of training type.
Polymorphism rs3123554 in CNR2 reveals gender‐specific effects on body weight and affects loss of body weight and cerebral insulin action
Authors: Ketterer Caroline , Heni Martin , Stingl Krunoslav , Tschritter Otto , Linder Katarzyna , Wagner Robert , Machicao Fausto , Häring Hans‐Ulrich , Preissl Hubert , Staiger Harald , Fritsche Andreas
Published: July 2013

Objective

The cannabinoid‐receptor system is involved in the regulation of food intake. Here, we test whether single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in CNR2, encoding the cannabinoid‐receptor 2, are associated with weight in a cross‐sectional cohort. Furthermore, we wanted to investigate if the identified hits influence weight loss during lifestyle intervention; and study a potential involvement of cerebral insulin action.

Methods

2006 subjects at increased risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus were genotyped for 5 tagging SNPs in the CNR2 locus. All subjects underwent a 75‐g OGTT. 345 subjects participated in a lifestyle intervention (TUebingen Lifestyle Intervention Programme). Cerebrocortical insulin sensitivity was measured by magnetoencephalography after intranasal insulin application in 43 subjects.

Results

In the cross‐sectional cohort, the minor allele of rs3123554 was associated with lower BMI (Padd = 0.01, Prec = 0.004), and this was attributable to its effect in women only. Interestingly, during lifestyle intervention, carriers of the same allele lost less body weight (Padd = 0.03, Prec = 0.008). Moreover, carriers of this minor allele showed lower cerebral insulin sensitivity (Prec = 0.0402).

Conclusions

The minor allele of rs3123554 is associated cross‐sectionally with lower body weight, whereas during intervention the same allele led to less reduction of body weight. Reduced cerebral insulin sensitivity in carriers of this allele might contribute to these disadvantageous effects during lifestyle intervention.
Carbon black, multiwall carbon nanotubes, expanded graphite and functionalized graphene flame retarded polypropylene nanocomposites
Authors: Dittrich Bettina , Wartig Karen‐Alessa , Hofmann Daniel , Mülhaupt Rolf , Schartel Bernhard
Published: July 2013

Herein, we examine the influence of adding functionalized graphene (FG), distinct expanded graphites and carbon nanofillers such as carbon black and multiwall carbon nanotubes on mechanical properties, morphology, pyrolysis, response to small flame and burning behavior of a V‐2 classified flame‐retarded polypropylene (PP). Among carbon fillers, FG and multilayer graphene (MLG) containing fewer than 10 layers are very effectively dispersed during twin‐screw extrusion and account for enhanced matrix reinforcement. In contrast to the other fillers, no large agglomerates are detected for PP‐FR/FG and PP‐FR/MLG, as verified by electron microscopy. Adding FG to flame‐retardant PP prevents dripping due to reduced flow at low shear rates and shifts the onset of thermal decomposition to temperatures 40°C higher. The increase in the onset temperature correlates with the increasing specific surface areas (BET) of the layered carbon fillers. The reduction of the peak heat release rate by 76% is attributed to the formation of effective protection layers during combustion. The addition of layered carbon nanoparticles lowers the time to ignition. The presence of carbon does not change the composition of the evolved pyrolysis gases, as determined by thermogravimetric analysis combined with online Fourier‐transformed infrared measurements. FG and well‐exfoliated MLG are superior additives with respect to spherical and tubular carbon nanomaterials. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of Multiple Constituents in Cong‐Ming‐Tang, a Chinese Herbal Formula for the Treatment of Amnesia, by High‐performance Liquid Chromatography with Quadrupole Time‐of‐flight Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Ling Yun , Li Zhixiong , Chen Mingcang , Sun Zhaolin , Fan Mingsong , Huang Chenggang
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Cong‐Ming‐Tang (CMT), named smart‐soup in English, is a well‐known traditional Chinese medicine formula for the treatment of amnesia in China. However, the isolation, purification and identification procedures of the major bioactive constituents in CMT are difficult and time consuming.

Objective

To establish a rapid and sensitive high‐performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionisation with quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC–QTOF/MS/MS) method that could be applied to rapidly separate and identify the major bioactive constituents in CMT.

Methods

Methanolic extract of CMT was used for HPLC–QTOF/MS/MS analysis. Separation was performed on an Agilent Poroshell 120 EC‐ C18 column (2.7 ×100 mm .i.d., 2.7 µm) with 0.1% formic acid aqueous solution and acetonitrile as the mobile phase under gradient conditions. Both positive and negative ion modes were employed.

Results

This analytical tool allowed the identification of 55 compounds from CMT formulae by comparing their retention times and MS spectra with those of authentic compounds or literature data in both positive and negative ion modes, including 4 xanthone C‐glycosides, 4 sucrose esters, 11 oligosaccharide multi‐esters,15 triterpene saponins, 15 triterpene acids, 2 lignans and 4 phenylpropanoids. Onjisaponin MF was tentatively elucidated as a new triterpene saponin based on the summarised fragmentation rules.

Conclusion

HPLC–QTOF/MS/MS provides a new powerful approach to identify the major chemical constituents in CMT rapidly and accurately. This study proposed a series of potential bioactive components without preparative isolation from the crude extract of CMT and indicated that the HPLC–QTOF/MS/MS method also can be a promising tool for the analysis of other traditional Chinese medicines. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multi‐development–HPTLC Method for Quantitation of Hyoscyamine, Scopolamine and their Biosynthetic Precursors in Selected Solanaceae Plants Grown in Natural Conditions and as In Vitro Cultures
Authors: Jaremicz Zbigniew , Luczkiewicz Maria , Kisiel Mariusz , Zárate Rafael , Jaber‐Vazdekis Nabil El , Migas Piotr
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Hyoscyamine and scopolamine, anti‐cholinergic agents widely used in medicine, are typically obtained from plants grown under natural conditions. Since field cultivation entails certain difficulties (changeable weather, pests, etc.), attempts have been made to develop a plant in vitro culture system as an alternative source for the production of these compounds. During experiments to locate the limiting steps in the biotechnological procedure, it is important to monitor not only the levels of the final products but also the changes in the concentration of their precursors.

Objective

To develop a HPTLC method for the separation and quantitation of the main tropane alkaloids hyoscyamine and scopolamine, their respective direct precursors littorine and anisodamine, and cuscohygrine, a product of a parallel biosynthetic pathway that shares a common precursor (N‐methyl‐∆1‐pyrrolium cation) with tropane alkaloids.

Methods

Using alkaloid extracts from Atropa baetica hairy roots, different TLC chromatographic systems and developing procedures were investigated.

Results

Full separation of all compounds was obtained on HPTLC Si60 F254 plates preconditioned with mobile phase vapours (chloroform:methanol:acetone:25% ammonia ratios of 75:15:10:1.8, v/v/v/v). The chromatograms were developed twice (at distances of 4.0 and 3.0 cm) in a Camag twin trough chamber and visualised with Dragendorff's reagent. Densitometric detection (λ = 190 and 520 nm) was used for quantitative analyses of the different plant samples.

Conclusion

This method can be recommended for quantitation of hyoscyamine, scopolamine, anisodamine, littorine and cuscohygrine in different plant material (field grown vs. in vitro cultures). Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dyssegmental dysplasia, Silverman‐Handmaker type: prenatal ultrasound findings and molecular analysis
Authors: Ladhani Noor Niyar N. , Chitayat David , Nezarati Marjan M. , Laureane Mittaz Crettol , Keating Sarah , Silver Rachel J. , Unger Sheila , Velsher Lea , Sirkin Wilma , Toi Ants , Glanc Phyllis
Published: July 2013

Objectives

The objective of this study is to describe the prenatal sonographic features and the results of DNA analysis on three fetuses with dyssegmental dysplasia, Silverman‐Handmaker type (DD‐SH).

Methods

A retrospective review of three fetuses with confirmed DD‐SH was conducted. The fetal ultrasound findings, the radiological characteristics, and the results of the mutation analysis of the heparan sulphate perlecan gene 2 (HSPG2) were reviewed.

Results

There were three cases in two families with DD‐SH diagnosed prenatally. The main prenatal ultrasound and the radiological features of DD‐SH were severe limb shortening and vertebral segmentation and fusion defects (anisospondyly). The DNA analysis of the HSPG2 gene showed that the two affected fetuses in a nonconsanguineous family had a compound heterozygote for the c.646G > T transversion in exon 7 and a c.5788C > T transition in exon 46. The fetus born to the consanguineous couple had a homozygous mutation c.1356‐27_1507 + 59del.

Conclusion

DD‐SH can be diagnosed prenatally using fetal ultrasound as early as 13 weeks. Xrays and DNA analysis of the HSPG2 gene are important for the confirmation of the diagnosis and for the preimplantation and prenatal diagnosis in pregnancies at risk. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
First‐trimester Down syndrome screening using additional serum markers with and without nuchal translucency and cell‐free DNA
Authors: Johnson J , Pastuck M , Metcalfe A , Connors G , Krause R , Wilson D , Cuckle H
Published: July 2013

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate serum‐only four‐marker first trimester (1T‐Quad) Down syndrome screening, alone or contingently to select 10–20% with highest risk for nuchal translucency (NT) or cell‐free (cf)DNA.

Methods

Stored maternal serum samples (−80 °C) from 90 pregnancies with fetal Down syndrome and 1607 controls were retrieved and measured for placental growth factor, α‐fetoprotein, pregnancy‐associated plasma protein and free β‐human chorionic gonadotropin. Samples were from singleton pregnancies (9–13 + 6 weeks), and NT was measured between 11 and 13 + 6 weeks. Markers were expressed in multiples of the normal median (MoM) for gestation. Gaussian models were fitted to the distribution of log MoMs by using observed parameters, standardized maternal age distribution (mean 27, SD 5.5) and published cfDNA results.

Results

The model‐predicted detection rate (DR) for 1T‐Quad was 74% [5% false‐positive rate (FPR)]. When used contingently to select for NT, the DR was 89% at 5%. When used to select for cfDNA, the DR was 91% (FPR < 0.05%).

Conclusion

The 1T‐Quad test can achieve a similar DR to a second‐trimester Quad test. When used contingently to select for NT, the DR is similar to the Combined test. Used contingently to select for cfDNA would achieve even higher detection. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reaction kinetics in liquid ammonia up to 120°C: techniques and some solvolysis and substitution reactions
Authors: Atherton John H. , Page Michael I. , Sun Haifeng
Published: July 2013

Liquid ammonia is known to be a useful solvent for aromatic nucleophilic substitution reactions of reactive aromatics. Most of the prior work has been carried out at atmospheric pressure and low temperatures. The purpose of this work is to extend the scope of these studies to less reactive haloaromatic substrates that require elevated temperatures to give useful reaction rates. Equipment has been developed to permit the safe study of reactions in liquid ammonia in small (5 mL) stainless steel tube reactors at temperatures up to 120°C (90 bar). Experimental techniques have been developed to permit meaningful sampling of solutions at high temperature and pressure. Sample capture into closed systems, either into a syringe containing quench solution, or directly into an HPLC sample loop, has been used to overcome problems due to flash precipitation and aerosol formation when sampling from high pressure. Activation parameters for the solvolysis of 4‐fluoronitrobenzene have been determined over the temperature range 20° – 120°C, and the rates of solvolysis of 2‐chloropyrimidine, 4,6‐dichloropyrimidine and 2‐chloro‐5‐trifluoromethylpyridine have been determined at appropriate temperatures. 2‐Fluoropyridine is inert to solvolysis even at 120°C. Rates of some nucleophilic substitutions with sodium triazolate and sodium phenoxide have been measured. Useful selectivities towards nucleophilic substitution can be obtained for the reactions examined, and further work is planned to examine the wider scope of these reactions. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Remote substituent effects on gas‐phase homolytic Fe–O and Fe–S bond energies of p‐G‐C6H4OFe(CO)2(η5‐C5H5) and p‐G‐C6H4SFe(CO)2(η5‐C5H5) studied using Hartree–Fock and density functional theory methods
Authors: Zeng Qing , Li Zucheng , Dong Ling , Han Daxiong , Wang Rufeng , Li Xiangri , Bai Genben
Published: July 2013

Metal–ligand bond enthalpy data can afford invaluable insights into important reaction patterns in organometallic chemistry and catalysis. In this paper, the Fe–O and Fe–S homolytic bond dissociation energies [ΔHhomo(Fe–O)'s and ΔHhomo(Fe–S)'s] of two series of para‐substituted phenoxydicarbonyl(η5‐cyclopentadienyl) iron [p‐G‐C6H4OFp (1)] and (para‐substituted benzenethiolato)dicarbonyl(η5‐cyclopentadienyl) iron [p‐G‐C6H4SFp (2)] were studied using Hartree–Fock and density functional theory (DFT) methods with large basis sets. In this study, Fp is (η5‐C5H5)Fe(CO)2, and G are NO2, CN, COMe, CO2Me, CF3, Br, Cl, F, H, Me, MeO, and NMe2. The results show that DFT methods can provide the best price/performance ratio and accurate predictions of ΔHhomo(Fe–O)'s and ΔHhomo(Fe–S)'s. The remote substituent effects on ΔHhomo(Fe–O)'s and ΔHhomo(Fe–S)'s [ΔΔHhomo(Fe–O)'s and ΔΔHhomo(Fe–S)'s] can also be satisfactorily predicted. The good correlations [r = 0.98 (g, 1), 0.98 (g, 2)] of ΔΔHhomo(Fe–O)'s and ΔΔHhomo(Fe–S)'s in series 1 and 2 with the substituent σp+ constants imply that the para‐substituent effects on ΔHhomo(Fe–O)'s and ΔHhomo(Fe–S)'s originate mainly from polar effects, but those on radical stability originate from both spin delocalization and polar effects. ΔΔHhomo(Fe–O)'s (1) and ΔΔHhomo(Fe–S)'s (2) conform to the captodative principle. Insight from this work may help the design of more effective catalytic processes. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.