bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the performance of a semi‐distributed hydrological model under various watershed discretization schemes
Authors: Haghnegahdar Amin , Tolson Bryan A. , Craig James R. , Paya Karol T.
Published: May 2015

Physically based distributed and semi‐distributed hydrological models have become some of the primary tools for water resources studies and management over the past decades owing to increased computational capabilities and advances in data measurements. Representation of the existing heterogeneity in nature still remains one of the main challenges in these models and is accomplished primarily via watershed discretization, subdividing watersheds into hydrologically similar land parcels. Discretization decisions in distributed modelling studies are often ad hoc and determined with little or no quantitative analysis to support these decisions. In this work, we present a quantitative methodology for assessing alternative watershed discretization schemes in terms of their corresponding model performance in ungauged basins. The effect of the computational time spent for calibrating each scheme (calibration budget) is considered as part of the assessment. Here, these schemes differ in how they represent landscape attributes and range from a simple lumped scheme to more complex ones by adding spatial land cover and then soil information. The methodology is demonstrated using the Modélisation Environmentale–Surface et Hydrologie (MESH) model as applied to the Nottawasaga River basin in Ontario, Canada. Results reveal that model performance in ungauged basins depends upon the location of the validation sub‐basin (i.e. upstream or downstream) with respect to the calibration sub‐basins. Also, using a more complex scheme did not necessarily lead to improved performance in validation, when constrained by calibration budget. Therefore, the calibration budget also should be considered as a factor in the assessment process. This methodology was also implemented using a shorter sub‐period for calibration, which leads to substantial computational saving. Results of the sub‐period test were promising and consistent particularly when sufficient budget is spent to calibrate the model. Other strategies utilized for reducing the computational burden of the proposed analyses are also discussed in this study. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Concurrent deletion of 16q23 and PTEN is an independent prognostic feature in prostate cancer
Authors: Kluth Martina , Runte Frederic , Barow Philipp , Omari Jazan , Abdelaziz Zaid M. , Paustian Lisa , Steurer Stefan , Christina Tsourlakis Maria , Fisch Margit , Graefen Markus , Tennstedt Pierre , Huland Hartwig , Michl Uwe , Minner Sarah , Sauter Guido , Simon Ronald , Adam Meike , Schlomm Thorsten
Published: May 2015

The deletion of 16q23‐q24 belongs to the most frequent chromosomal changes in prostate cancer, but the clinical consequences of this alteration have not been studied in detail. We performed fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis using a 16q23 probe in more than 7,400 prostate cancers with clinical follow‐up data assembled in a tissue microarray format. Chromosome 16q deletion was found in 21% of cancers, and was linked to advanced tumor stage, high Gleason grade, accelerated cell proliferation, the presence of lymph node metastases (p < 0.0001 each) and positive surgical margin (p = 0.0004). 16q Deletion was more frequent in ERG fusion‐positive (27%) as compared to ERG fusion‐negative cancers (16%, p < 0.0001), and was linked to other ERG‐associated deletions including phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) (p < 0.0001) and 3p13 (p = 0.0303). In univariate analysis, the deletion of 16q was linked to early biochemical recurrence independently from the ERG status (p < 0.0001). Tumors with codeletions of 16q and PTEN had a worse prognosis (p = 0.0199) than those with PTEN or the deletion of 16q alone. Multivariate modeling revealed that the prognostic value of 16q/PTEN deletion patterns was independent from the established prognostic factors. In summary, the results of our study demonstrate that the deletion of 16q and PTEN cooperatively drives prostate cancer progression, and suggests that deletion analysis of 16q and PTEN could be of important clinical value particularly for preoperative risk assessment of the clinically most challenging group of low‐ and intermediated grade prostate cancers.
A novel genomic signature reclassifies an oral cancer subtype
Authors: Samman Manar , Wood Henry M. , Conway Caroline , Stead Lucy , Daly Catherine , Chalkley Rebecca , Berri Stefano , Senguven Burcu , Ross Lisa , Egan Philip , Chengot Preetha , Ong Thian K. , Pentenero Monica , Gandolfo Sergio , Cassenti Adele , Cassoni Paola , Al Ajlan Abdulaziz , Samkari Alaa , Barrett William , MacLennan Kenneth , High Alec , Rabbitts Pamela
Published: May 2015

Verrucous carcinoma of the oral cavity (OVC) is considered a subtype of classical oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Diagnosis is problematic, and additional biomarkers are needed to better stratify patients. To investigate their molecular signature, we performed low‐coverage copy number (CN) sequencing on 57 OVC and exome and RNA sequencing on a subset of these and compared the data to the same OSCC parameters. CN results showed that OVC lacked any of the classical OSCC patterns such as gain of 3q and loss of 3p and demonstrated considerably fewer genomic rearrangements compared to the OSCC cohort. OVC and OSCC samples could be clearly differentiated. Exome sequencing showed that OVC samples lacked mutations in genes commonly associated with OSCC (TP53, NOTCH1, NOTCH2, CDKN2A and FAT1). RNA sequencing identified genes that were differentially expressed between the groups. In silico functional analysis showed that the mutated and differentially expressed genes in OVC samples were involved in cell adhesion and keratinocyte proliferation, while those in the OSCC cohort were enriched for cell death and apoptosis pathways. This is the largest and most detailed genomic and transcriptomic analysis yet performed on this tumour type, which, as an example of non‐metastatic cancer, may shed light on the nature of metastases. These three independent investigations consistently show substantial differences between the cohorts. Taken together, they lead to the conclusion that OVC is not a subtype of OSCC, but should be classified as a distinct entity.
Mobilization of hematopoietic progenitor cells from allogeneic healthy donors using a new biosimilar G‐CSF (Zarzio®)
Authors: Antelo María Luisa , Zabalza Amaya , Sánchez Antón María Piva , Zalba Saioa , Aznar Mariví , Mansilla Cristina , Ramírez Natalia , Olavarría Eduardo
Published: May 2015

Peripheral blood progenitor cells (PBPCs) have become the major source of hematopoietic progenitor cells for allogeneic transplantation. In February 2008, Zarzio® was approved by the European Medicine Agency for PBPCs mobilization, but this authorization was not based in trials analyzing safety and efficacy for PBPCs mobilization. Since August 2011, Zarzio® has been used at our institution for PBPCs mobilization. In total 36 healthy family donors underwent PBPCs mobilization, 18 with Neupogen® and 18 with Zarzio®. Donor characteristics were equivalent between groups, and no severe adverse effects were registered in the Zarzio® group. The number of CD34 cells collected/Kg recipient body weight was 6.7 × 106 (3.8–11.1) in the Zarzio® group versus 8.4 × 106 (5.6–16.6) in the Neupogen® group (P = 0.04). We collected the minimal target cell dose (2 × 106/kg) in all donors from each group and no significant differences were found in the collection of the optimal cell dose (5 × 106/kg) between groups, although 3/18 (16.6%) donors that received Zarzio® failed to mobilize the optimal cell dose compared with 0% in the Neupogen® group. A total of 35 patients proceeded to transplantation (17 in the Zarzio® and 18 in the Neupogen® groups, respectively). Platelet and neutrophil median time to engraftment was comparable between the two groups. Our retrospective study supports the conclusion that Zarzio® mobilization of PBPCs in healthy donors is safe but perhaps not as effective as the reference Neupogen. However, more prospective trials are required to definitively asses the safety and efficacy of G‐CSF biosimilars for PBPCs mobilization in healthy donors. J. Clin. Apheresis 31:48–52, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Leukapheresis treatment in elderly acute leukemia patients with hyperleukocytosis: A single center experience
Authors: Berber Ilhami , Erkurt Mehmet Ali , Kuku Irfan , Kaya Emin , Gozukara Bag Harika , Nizam Ilknur , Koroglu Mustafa , Yigit Ali , Ozgul Mustafa
Published: May 2015

Aim:

Leukapheresis is an invasive treatment modality used for hyperleukocytosis. Various drugs and fluids are used during the leukapheresis. Aging itself and associated factors such as increased comorbidity, decreased tolerance to drugs, increased drug toxicity give rise to the application of other treatment modalities in elderly patients. Treatment of acute leukemia in the elderly differs from young patients. Consequently, we assumed that outcome, effectiveness, and side effects of leukapheresis treatment used for acute leukemia patients with hyperleukocytosis may be different in elderly compared to younger patients.

Methods:

We retrospectively evaluated a total of 39 patients. Eighteen patients were 65 years and older. Indications for leukapheresis were determined as symptoms of leukostasis and prophylaxis. Acid citrate dextrose‐A, calcium gluconate, and plasma were used during the leukapheresis. Age, sex, diagnosis, count, and indications of leukapheresis procedures, leukocyte count, and lactate dehydrogenase level were analyzed at the onset of and after leukapheresis; side effects, causes of death, early and total mortality rates were also analyzed. We compared the two groups with regard to effectiveness, clinical outcomes, and side effects.

Results:

There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups with respect to sex, diagnosis, initial leukocyte count, lactate dehydrogenase level, number of leukapheresis procedures, rates of side effects, or early and total mortality (P > 0.05). Leukapheresis treatment was effective in both groups (P < 0.05) and no significant difference was found in its effectiveness between two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Leukapheresis is an effective and safe treatment modality in elderly acute leukemia patients with hyperleukocytosis. J. Clin. Apheresis 31:53–58, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Distribution of citrate and citrate infusion rate during donor plasmaphereses
Authors: Evers Josef , Taborski Uwe
Published: May 2015

Background:

The purpose of this study was to describe the distribution of trisodium‐citrate 4% (TSC) anticoagulant (AC) between the product and the donors undergoing plasma donation.

Subjects and Methods:

Data of 32 regular donors of plasma initially collected for a study published in 2010 were re‐analyzed to determine the amount of citrate received by the donor and the citrate infusion rate (CIR) in mg/kg/min to the donor. Donor plasmaphereses (DP) were performed with the automated Haemonetics plasma collecting system 2 (PCS2). Plasma volume was programmed at 760 ml including AC. CIR was calculated from citrate received by the donors divided by the body weight over time.

Results:

130 ± 12 ml TSC was used for 760 ml plasma. An average of 110 ml TSC or 84.6% of citrate load was in collected plasma and not given to the donor. From the difference of 20 ml or 514 mg citrate an average CIR of 0.16 mg/kg/min was calculated.

Conclusion:

The total amount of citrate received by the donor is minimal and the average CIR is below the critical level of 1 mg/kg/min. J. Clin. Apheresis 31:59–62, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparison of two low‐density lipoprotein apheresis systems in patients with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Drouin‐Chartier Jean‐Philippe , Tremblay André J , Bergeron Jean , Pelletier Maude , Laflamme Nathalie , Lamarche Benoît , Couture Patrick
Published: May 2015

Low‐density lipoprotein(LDL) apheresis (LA) is a reliable method to decrease LDL‐C concentrations and remains the gold standard therapy in homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH). The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy of two LA systems [heparin‐induced extracorporeal LDL precipitation (HELP) vs. dextran sulfate adsorption (DS) on the reduction of lipids, inflammatory markers, and adhesion molecules in a sample of genetically defined HoFH subjects (n = 9)]. Fasting blood samples were collected before and after LA. All subjects served as their own control and were first treated with the HELP system then with DS in this single sequence study. Compared with HELP, DS led to significantly greater reductions in total cholesterol (−63.3% vs. −59.9%;P = 0.05), LDL‐C (−70.5% vs. −63.0%;P = 0.02), CRP (−75.3% vs. −48.8%;P < 0.0001), and TNF‐α (−23.7% vs. +14.7%;P = 0.003). Reductions in the plasma levels of PCSK9 (−45.3% vs. −63.4%;P = 0.31), lipoprotein (a) (−70.6% vs. −65.0%;P = 0.30), E‐selectin (−16.6% vs. −18.3%;P = 0.65), ICAM‐1 (−4.0 vs. 5.6%;P = 0.56), and VCAM‐1 (8.3% vs. −1.8%;P = 0.08) were not different between the two systems. For the same volume of filtered plasma (3,000 mL), however, HELP led to greater reductions in plasma apoB (−63.1% vs. −58.3%;P = 0.04), HDL‐C (−20.6% vs. −6.5%;P = 0.003), and PCSK9 (−63.4% vs. −28.5%;P = 0.02) levels. These results suggest that both LA systems are effective in reducing plasma lipids and inflammatory markers in HoFH. Compared with HELP, greater reductions in lipid levels and inflammatory markers were achieved with DS, most likely because this method allows for a larger plasma volume to be filtered. J. Clin. Apheresis 31:359–367, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Highly efficient carbon dioxide capture by a novel amine solvent containing multiple amino groups
Authors: Cao Lingdi , Dong Haifeng , Zhang Xiangping , Zhang Suojiang , Zhao Zhijun , Zeng Shaojuan , Gao Jubao
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

Aqueous solutions of amine are considered to be effective absorbents for CO2 capture. Special attention is increasingly being given to developing efficient solvents with both high absorption rate and absorption loading for CO2 capture.

RESULTS

A novel amine 2‐[(3‐aminopropyl)methylamino]ethanol (HMPDA) containing a primary amino group and a tertiary amino group was screened to improve the CO2 absorption performance. The equilibrium loading of CO2 in aqueous HMPDA solution was found to be 1.65 mol CO2 mol−1 HMPDA at 313 K and 1 MPa, which is larger than those of conventional amines like monoethanolamine (MEA, 0.75 mol CO2 mol−1 MEA) and N‐methyldiethanolamine (MDEA, 1.05 mol CO2 mol−1 MDEA) at 313 K and 1 MPa. Moreover, the HMPDA solution demonstrated a faster absorption rate of CO2 than those of MEA and MDEA solutions. The viscosity of HMPDA solution increases by around 66% after CO2 absorption, which is smaller than the 88% increase of MEA solution.

CONCLUSIONS

Efficient results for CO2 absorption using HMPDA were obtained through assessing the absorption rate, absorption loading of CO2 and related physical properties. This novel amine shows both fast absorption rate and high absorption loading due to the multiple‐site reaction elaborated by the zwitterion and single‐step termolecular mechanism. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Efficient synthesis of deuterium labeled hydroxyzine and aripiprazole
Authors: Vohra Mohit , Sandbhor Mahendra , Wozniak Andrew
Published: May 2015

Hydroxyzine and aripiprazole are active pharmaceutical ingredients that have been largely acknowledged for their antipsychotic properties. Deuterium labeled isotopes of hydroxyzine and aripiprazole are internal standards that can aid in the further research of non‐isotopic forms via quantification analysis using HPLC‐MS/MS.

The synthesis of hydroxyzine‐d8 was accomplished by coupling piperazine‐d8 with 4‐chlorobenzhydryl chloride followed by the reaction of the first intermediate with 2‐(2‐chloroethoxy) ethanol to afford 11.7% of hydroxyzine‐d8 with 99.5% purity. The synthesis of aripiprazole‐d8 was also achieved in two steps. 1,4‐Dibromobutane‐d8 reacted with 7‐hydroxy‐3,4‐dihydro‐2(1H)‐quinolinone. The first intermediate was then coupled with 1‐(2, 3‐dichlorophenyl)piperazine hydrochloride to produce 33.4% of aripiprazole‐d8 with 99.93% purity.
Comparison of free amino acids, antioxidants, soluble phenolic acids, cytotoxicity and immunomodulation of fermented mung bean and soybean
Authors: Ali Norlaily Mohd , Yeap Swee‐Keong , Yusof Hamidah Mohd , Beh Boon‐Kee , Ho Wan‐Yong , Koh Soo‐Peng , Abdullah Mohd Puad , Alitheen Noorjahan Banu , Long Kamariah
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

Mung bean and soybean have been individually reported previously to have antioxidant, cytotoxic and immunomodulatory effects, while fermentation is a well‐known process to enhance the bioactive compounds that contribute to higher antioxidant, cytotoxic and immunomodulation effects. In this study, the free amino acids profile, soluble phenolic acids content, antioxidants, cytotoxic and immunomodulatory effects of fermented and non‐fermented mung bean and soybean were compared.

RESULTS

Fermented mung bean was recorded to have the highest level of free amino acids, soluble phenolic acids (especially protocatechuic acid) and antioxidant activities among all the tested products. Both fermented mung bean and soybean possessed cytotoxicity activities against breast cancer MCF‐7 cells by arresting the G0/G1 phase followed by apoptosis. Moreover, fermented mung bean and soybean also induced splenocyte proliferation and enhanced the levels of serum interleukin‐2 and interferon‐γ.

CONCLUSION

Augmented amounts of free amino acids and phenolic acids content after fermentation enhanced the antioxidants, cytotoxicity and immunomodulation effects of mung bean and soybean. More specifically, fermented mung bean showed the best effects among all the tested products. This study revealed the potential of fermented mung bean and soybean as functional foods for maintenance of good health. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of the charge distribution on the stationary phases zeta potential
Authors: Bocian Szymon , Dziubakiewicz Ewelina , Buszewski Bogusław
Published: May 2015

A set of seven home‐made silica based bonded phases with different functional groups was investigated. Their zeta potential data in methanol and acetonitrile as well as in methanol/water and acetonitrile/water solution were obtained by using a Zetasizer. The influence of polar functional groups on a zeta potential was investigated. The results show that the amines incorporated in the structure of chemically bonded phases of reversed‐phase materials are protonated during chromatographic analysis, resulting in changes of the zeta potential from negative to positive values. Acetonitrile causes more negative values and methanol provides positive (or less negative) values of the zeta potential.
Characterization and simultaneous quantification of biological aporphine alkaloids in Litsea cubeba by HPLC with hybrid ion trap time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry and HPLC with diode array detection
Authors: Zhang Shuiying , Zhang Qian , Guo Qiang , Zhao Yunfang , Gao Xiaoli , Chai Xingyun , Tu Pengfei
Published: May 2015

The root and rhizome of Litsea cubeba (Lour) Pers., named ‘Dou‐chi‐jiang’ in Chinese, has been traditionally used for treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, rheumatic arthralgia, and other diseases in China. Aporphine alkaloids are its characteristic ingredients and responsible for its bioactivities, especially anti‐inflammatory and analgesic effects. A sensitive and reliable high‐performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection‐tandem mass spectrometry method was developed for characterization and simultaneous determination of biological aporphine alkaloids in ‘Dou‐chi‐jiang’. The optimized chromatographic conditions were performed on an Eclipse XDB C18 column with a gradient of acetonitrile/water containing 0.1% formic acid as the mass spectrometry mobile phase and acetonitrile/water containing 0.2% diethylamine (pH 3.10, adjusted by acetic acid) as the liquid chromatography mobile phase. The fragmentation pathways by loss of CO, ·CH3, ·NH3, and ·NH2CH3 were detected as characteristic for aporphine alkaloids. Based on these characteristics, total 12 analogues were identified. The quantification method was validated in terms of linearity, precision, and accuracy for six major aporphine alkaloids, which was successfully applied for simultaneous determination in ten batches of samples. The established method is simple, rapid, and specific for characterization and quantitation of aporphine alkaloids in ‘Dou‐chi‐jiang’ and other traditional Chinese medicines rich in this kind of ingredient.
Hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography for the separation, purification, and quantification of raffinose family oligosaccharides from Lycopus lucidus Turcz
Authors: Liang Tu , Fu Qing , Li Fangbing , Zhou Wei , Xin Huaxia , Wang Hui , Jin Yu , Liang Xinmiao
Published: May 2015

A systematic strategy based on hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography was developed for the separation, purification and quantification of raffinose family oligosaccharides from Lycopus lucidus Turcz. Methods with enough hydrophilicity and selectivity were utilized to resolve the problems encountered in the separation of oligosaccharides such as low retention, low resolution and poor solubility. The raffinose family oligosaccharides in L. lucidus Turcz. were isolated using solid‐phase extraction followed by hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography at semi‐preparative scale to obtain standards of stachyose, verbascose and ajugose. Utilizing the obtained oligosaccharides as standards, a quantitative determination method was developed, validated and applied for the content determination of raffinose family oligosaccharides both in the aerial and root parts of L. lucidus Turcz. There were no oligosaccharides in the aerial parts, while in the root parts, the total content was 686.5 mg/g with the average distribution: raffinose 66.5 mg/g, stachyose 289.0 mg/g, verbascose 212.4 mg/g, and ajugose 118.6 mg/g. The result provided the potential of roots of L. lucidus Turcz. as new raffinose family oligosaccharides sources for functional food. Moreover, since the present systematic strategy is efficient, sensitive and robust, separation, purification and quantification of oligosaccharides by hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography seems to be possible.
Underestimation of microzooplankton grazing in dilution experiments due to inhibition of phytoplankton growth
Authors: Stoecker Diane K. , Nejstgaard Jens C. , Madhusoodhanan Rakhesh , Pohnert Georg , Wolfram Stefanie , Jakobsen Hans Henrik , Šulčius Sigitas , Larsen Aud
Published: May 2015

Microzooplankton dilution grazing experiments conducted in phytoplankton rich waters, particularly in polar and subpolar seas, often result in calculation of nonsignificant or negative grazing coefficients. We hypothesized that preparation of filtered seawater (FSW) from water containing high biomass of phytoplankton results in release of allelochemicals that inhibit phytoplankton growth, lowering the net growth of phytoplankton in the more diluted treatments. We tested this hypothesis during blooms of Skeletonema marinoi and Phaeocystis pouchetii in a nutrient‐enriched mesocosm in the Raunefjord, Norway. During the S. marinoi bloom, inhibition of phytoplankton growth occurred in the diluted treatments. Simultaneously the concentration of total as well as dissolved polyunsaturated aldehydes (PUAs) was elevated. Passage of the FSW through a carbon cellulose cartridge to remove dissolved organic material reduced, or eliminated, the inhibition. In the early phase of the P. pouchetii bloom that followed the diatom bloom in the mesocosm, PUA concentration was relatively low and the untreated FSW had a less drastic, but often significant, inhibitory effect on phytoplankton growth. Laboratory experiments with cultures of S. marinoi and P. pouchetii confirmed that material present in filtrate prepared from diluted cultures was self‐inhibitory. Many phytoplankters, particularly during late stages of a bloom, produce inhibitory metabolites that may be released during filtration of the relatively large volumes of seawater needed for dilution experiments. Under some conditions, dilution grazing experiments may underestimate phytoplankton growth coefficients and microzooplankton grazing coefficients.
Measurement of DMS, DMSO, and DMSP in natural waters by automated sequential chemical analysis
Authors: Asher Elizabeth C. , Dacey John W. H. , Jarniková Tereza , Tortell Philippe D.
Published: May 2015

Dimethyl sulfide (DMS), dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP), and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) are key components of the marine sulfur cycle. The concentrations of these compounds exhibit large spatial and temporal variability in the surface ocean, creating a need for high resolution sampling. Existing automated underway measurement systems for DMS do not measure DMSP or DMSO, so their spatial variability is less well‐characterized. We present an accurate and robust method for the automated, high throughput sampling and measurement of DMS, DMSO, and DMSP (DMS/O/P) in a single water sample. The method is based on a three‐step sequence of purge and trap gas chromatography, where DMS analysis is followed by the enzymatic reduction of DMSO to DMS and the alkaline hydrolysis of DMSP to DMS. The system, which we call the Organic Sulfur Sequential Chemical Analysis Robot (OSSCAR), includes automated calibrations and blank determinations. OSSCAR can be used as a front‐end system for any sulfur detector and is suited for continuous underway analysis or the measurement of discrete water samples. The system described here has a minimum detection limit of ∼ 0.1 nM of DMS/O/P in a 2.5 mL sample. Assessment of liquid standards and intercalibration against independent analytical systems demonstrate good precision and accuracy of our method. Shipboard analysis of surface water DMS/O/P concentrations on a transect from Ocean Station Papa (50°N, 145°W) to Vancouver Island demonstrates the utility of OSSCAR for mapping variability in reduced sulfur compounds across dynamic and contrasting oceanographic conditions.
The efficacy of clove oil for anaesthesia of eight species of Australian tropical freshwater teleosts
Authors: Kroon Frederieke J.
Published: May 2015

The efficacy of clove oil for anaesthesia was examined on eight species of Australian tropical freshwater fishes: the native Mulgrave goby (Glossogobius bellendenensis, Gobiidae), empire gudgeon (Hypseleotris compressa) and sleepy cod (Oxyeleotris lineolatus) (both Eleotrididae), Eastern rainbowfish (Melanotaenia splendida, Melanotaeniidae), Pacific blue‐eye (Pseudomugil signifer, Pseudomugilidae), and eel‐tailed catfish (Tandanus tandanus, Plotosidae), and the non‐native species spotted tilapia (Pelmatolapia mariae, Cichlidae) and guppy (Poecilia reticulata, Poecilidae). Induction to anaesthesia, recovery from anaesthesia and survival of fish were determined for five concentrations (20 mg/L, 30 mg/L, 40 mg/L, 80 mg/L, and 160 mg/L). A 20 mg/L clove oil concentration was not sufficient to induce a loss of reflex reactivity within 10 min for most individuals (> 85%) in the eight species examined. Effective clove oil concentrations for anaesthesia induction and recovery (40–80 mg/L) for seven out of the eight species examined overlap with those reported for other tropical freshwater fish species. Differences in induction and recovery times among treatments were not always independent of fish size for G. bellendenensis, M. splendida, O. lineolatus, and P. mariae, emphasizing the importance of taking biological and environmental factors into account when determining and applying effective clove oil concentrations for anaesthesia in fish. In contrast, long recovery times and mortality for T. tandanus in even relatively low concentrations suggests that clove oil may not be an appropriate anaesthetic for at least some fish species.
The origin, measurement and control of fine particles in non‐aqueous hydraulic fluids and their effect on fluid and system performance
Authors: Phillips W. D. , Staniewski J. W. G.
Published: May 2015

When assessing the cleanliness of industrial hydraulic fluids, current procedures focus on particles above 4 µm in size. However, the use of more sophisticated techniques has confirmed that substantial numbers of much smaller particles can be formed in use — mainly by high‐temperature degradation processes.

The paper outlines the mechanisms for fine particle generation and procedures for their measurement and control. Significant quantities can adversely affect fluid surface‐active properties and hinder the operation of system components.

The effect of flow electrification or applied electrical fields to assist filtration is also discussed. The paper suggests that residual charge could stabilise particle dispersions, assist the depletion of dispersed anti‐foam particles and affect foam stability.

An extension of the ISO 4406 cleanliness code to quantify the presence of fine particulate is recommended as is the need for further work to investigate the limits that should be placed on their presence in different applications. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Brain alterations with deep brain stimulation: New insight from a neuropathological case series
Authors: Kronenbuerger Martin , Nolte Kay Wilhelm , Coenen Volker Arnd , Burgunder Jean‐Marc , Krauss Joachim K. , Weis Joachim
Published: May 2015

Background

Previous studies on human brain tissue alterations caused by deep brain stimulation described glial and reactive inflammatory changes. In the current pathoanatomical study, we extended the analysis to signs of axonal changes and the influence of concomitant disease.

Methods

Brains of 10 patients with Parkinson's disease or essential tremor and a total of 18 electrodes were systematically examined up to 7.5 y after surgery.

Results

In general, tissue that had long‐term contact with the electrode material exhibited astrogliosis in all, T‐lymphocytes in 93%, and multinucleated giant cells in 68% of patients. Immunohistochemistry showed an increase in amyloid precursor protein immunoreactive axonal swellings in the brain at the electrically active parts of the electrodes. Patients who died of septicemia showed a more severe astrogliosis and giant cell reaction than patients who died of cardiovascular events. Parkinson's disease or essential tremor did not differentially produce histopathological changes around the electrodes.

Conclusion

Long‐term electrical stimulation by deep brain stimulation causes minor axonal changes. The cause of death, but not the underlying neurological disease, affects the histopathological changes around the electrode. The findings need to be reproduced by examining larger patient subgroups. © 2015 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
A new F‐box protein 7 gene mutation causing typical Parkinson's disease
Authors: Lohmann Ebba , Coquel Anne‐Sophie , Honoré Aurélie , Gurvit Hakan , Hanagasi Hasmet , Emre Murat , Leutenegger Anne L. , Drouet Valérie , Sahbatou Mourad , Guven Gamze , Erginel‐Unaltuna Nihan , Deleuze Jean‐Francois , Lesage Suzanne , Brice Alexis
Published: May 2015

Background

Recessive mutations in the F‐box protein 7 gene (FBXO7; PARK15) have been identified as a cause of the parkinsonian‐pyramidal syndrome. Here, we report clinical and genetic findings in a Turkish family with novel FBXO7 mutations.

Methods

Whole exome and targeted Sanger sequencing were performed for genetic analysis in a family with two members affected by Parkinson's disease (PD). All family members underwent detailed clinical, mental, and neurological examination.

Results

The new p.L34R (c.101 T>G) FBXO7 mutation was detected in a homozygous state in two Turkish sibs with typical levodopa‐responsive PD.

Conclusion

This is the first time a FBXO7 mutation has been identified that causes a phenotype compatible with typical idiopathic PD and presents with some of its common nonmotor features, such as rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder, depression, and anxiety. © 2015 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Intraoperative flap design using ICG monitoring of a conjoined fabricated anterolateral thigh/tensor fasciae latae perforator flap in a case of extensive soft tissue reconstruction at the lower extremity
Authors: Buehrer Gregor , Taeger Christian D. , Ludolph Ingo , Horch Raymund E. , Beier Justus P.
Published: May 2015

In this report, we present a case of the use of a conjoined fabricated free anterolateral thigh (ALT)/tensor fascia latae (TFL) perforator flap for reconstruction of the lower extremity with intraoperative flap design using intraoperative indocyanine green (ICG) monitoring. The flap was used for reconstruction of a 16 cm × 28 cm sized defect of the lower leg in a 24‐year‐old man. The defect was caused by a third degree open fracture to the tibia. Upon dissection of the ALT perforators, ICG monitoring showed that both dominant ALT perforators did not yield a sufficient perforasome (∼16 cm × 17 cm) for the larger flap needed. An adjacent TFL perforator also supplied a large perforasome (∼15 cm × 11 cm), so a conjoined fabricated flap was harvested and transplanted to cover an extensive lower leg defect. The artery of the TFL perforator pedicle was being in‐flap anastomosed to a side branch of the ALT pedicle. Postoperative course was uneventful and there were no complications. Length of follow‐up was 6 months, aesthetic and functional outcome was good. The patient was very satisfied with the aesthetic outcome. Both legs were fully mobile after intensive physiotherapy for the reconstructed leg. The leg where the flap had been harvested showed full strength in knee joint flexion. This case could show that identification of the supplying vessels may be possible by ICG monitoring. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 36:684–688, 2016.
Complementary phenol‐enriched olive oil improves HDL characteristics in hypercholesterolemic subjects. A randomized, double‐blind, crossover, controlled trial. The VOHF study
Authors: Farràs Marta , Castañer Olga , Martín‐Peláez Sandra , Hernáez Álvaro , Schröder Helmut , Subirana Isaac , Muñoz‐Aguayo Daniel , Gaixas Sònia , Torre Rafael de la , Farré Magí , Rubió Laura , Díaz Óscar , Fernández‐Castillejo Sara , Solà Rosa , Motilva Maria José , Fitó Montserrat
Published: May 2015

Scope

Consumption of olive oil (OO) phenolic compounds (PCs) has beneficial effects on lipid profile. HDL functionality is currently considered to be a more important issue than its circulating quantity. Our aim was to assess whether functional virgin olive oils (FVOOs), one enriched with its own PC (500 ppm; FVOO) and another with OOPC (250 ppm) plus additional complementary PCs from thyme (250 ppm) (total: 500 ppm; FVOOT (functional virgin olive oil with thyme)), could improve HDL functionality related properties versus a virgin OO control (80 ppm; VOO).

Methods and results

In a randomized, double‐blind, crossover, controlled trial, 33 hypercholesterolemic volunteers received 25 mL/day of VOO, FVOO, and FVOOT during 3 wk. HDL cholesterol increased 5.74% (p < 0.05) versus its baseline after the FVOOT consumption in the participants without hypolipidemic medication. We detected, after FVOOT consumption, an increase in HDL2‐subclass (34.45, SD = 6.38) versus VOO intake (32.73, SD = 6.71). An increment in esterified cholesterol/free cholesterol and phospholipids/free cholesterol in HDL was observed after FVOOT consumption (1.73, SD = 0.56; 5.44, SD = 1.39) compared with VOO intervention (1.53, SD = 0.35; 4.97, SD = 0.81) and FVOO intervention (1.50, SD = 0.33; 4.97, SD = 0.81). Accordingly, lecithin‐cholesterol acyltransferase mass increased after FVOOT consumption (1228 μg/mL, SD = 130), compared with VOO consumption (1160 μg/mL, SD = 144). An improvement in HDL oxidative‐status was reflected after FVOOT consumption versus its baseline, given an increment in the paraoxonase activity (118 × 103 U/L, SD = 24).

Conclusion

FVOOT improves HDL‐subclass distribution and composition, and metabolism/antioxidant enzyme activities. FVOOT could be a useful dietary tool in the management of high cardiovascular risk patients.
Capsaicin alleviates abnormal intestinal motility through regulation of enteric motor neurons and MLCK activity: Relevance to intestinal motility disorders
Authors: Chen Dapeng , Xiong Yongjian , Lin Yuan , Tang Zeyao , Wang Jingyu , Wang Li , Yao Jihong
Published: May 2015

Scope

Capsaicin is an active component of chili peppers, having diverse effects. However, the effects of capsaicin on intestinal motility are still controversial. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of capsaicin on intestinal motility disorder and uncover related mechanisms.

Materials and results

A rat model with intestinal motility disorder was established in vitro through adding different stimuli into tissue bath; in vivo using constipation and diarrhea model, respectively. Capsaicin exerted dual effects on intestinal motility, i.e. the relaxation and contraction of jejunum induced by corresponding stimulus were, respectively, regulated to be normal contraction by capsaicin. The mechanisms underlined capsaicin‐induced dual effects were investigated using Western blotting, qRT‐PCR, and whole‐cell patch clamp, respectively. Results showed that cholinergic excitatory nerves, adrenergic nerves, and neurons containing nitric oxide synthase, which are the main muscle motor neurons in enteric nervous system (ENS), are involved in capsaicin‐induced dual effects. The competition for regulation of Ca2+ influx by capsaicin induced the interaction with components of the ENS. Capsaicin significantly increased myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) expression and myosin phosphorylation extent in jejunal segments of constipation‐prominent rats and significantly decreased MLCK expression and myosin phosphorylation extent in jejunal segments of diarrhea‐prominent rats.

Conclusion

In summary, capsaicin alleviates abnormal intestinal motility through regulating enteric motor neurons and MLCK activity, which is beneficial for the treatment of gastrointestinal motility disorders.
Estrogen and progesterone differentially regulate the levels of cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR), adenylate cyclase (AC), and cyclic adenosine mono‐phosphate (cAMP) in the rat cervix
Authors: Ismail Nurain , Giribabu Nelli , Muniandy Sekaran , Salleh Naguib
Published: May 2015

The consistency of the cervical mucus changes with the reproductive cycle, which we hypothesized involved changing levels of cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR), adenylate cyclase (AC), and cyclic adenosine mono‐phosphate (cAMP). We therefore measured the abundance of each in the rat cervix under estrogen and progesterone influence to determine if the activity of these components could explain the changes in the consistency of cervical mucus. Ovariectomised adult female rats were treated with three days of either estrogen (1 μg/kg/day) or progesterone (20 mg/kg/day), or three days of estrogen followed by two days of either vehicle or progesterone or estrogen plus progesterone. In some groups, mifepristone (7 mg/kg/day) was concurrently given with progesterone. Animals were then sacrificed, and the cervix was harvested for protein and mRNA expression analyses by Western blot and real‐time PCR, respectively. The distribution of proteins was investigated by immunohistochemistry, and levels of cAMP were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Cftr mRNA, AC protein, and cAMP levels in cervical homogenates as well as the tissue distribution of CFTR and AC in endocervical epithelia were highest under estrogen influence; the opposite pattern was seen under progesterone influence. Cervical lumen circumference was highest under estrogen and lowest under progesterone. The effects of progesterone were antagonized by mifepristone. Therefore, increased abundance of CFTR, AC, and cAMP under estrogen influence could account for the increased fluid accumulation within the cervical lumen, which would contribute to lower cervical mucus consistency, whereas progesterone reverses this effect at the molecular and organ level. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 82: 463–474, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Peptide folding driven by Van der Waals interactions
Authors: Sung Shen‐Shu
Published: May 2015

Contrary to the widespread view that hydrogen bonding and its entropy effect play a dominant role in protein folding, folding into helical and hairpin‐like structures is observed in molecular dynamics (MD) simulations without hydrogen bonding in the peptide‐solvent system. In the widely used point charge model, hydrogen bonding is calculated as part of the interaction between atomic partial charges. It is removed from these simulations by setting atomic charges of the peptide and water to zero. Because of the structural difference between the peptide and water, van der Waals (VDW) interactions favor peptide intramolecular interactions and are a major contributing factor to the structural compactness. These compact structures are amino acid sequence dependent and closely resemble standard secondary structures, as a consequence of VDW interactions and covalent bonding constraints. Hydrogen bonding is a short range interaction and it locks the approximate structure into the specific secondary structure when it is included in the simulation. In contrast to standard molecular simulations where the total energy is dominated by charge‐charge interactions, these simulation results will give us a new view of the folding mechanism.
Modulation of Cytochrome P450 Activity by 18β‐Glycyrrhetic Acid and its Consequence on Buspirone Pharmacokinetics in Rats
Authors: Kim Sang‐Bum , Cho Hyun‐Jong , Kim Yeong Shik , Kim Dae‐Duk , Yoon In‐Soo
Published: May 2015

The aim of this study was to elucidate the inhibition mechanism of 18β‐glycyrrhetic acid (GLY) on cytochrome P450 (CYP) activity and in vivo pharmacokinetic consequences of single GLY dose in rats. An in vitro CYP inhibition study in rat liver microsomes (RLM) was conducted using probe substrates for CYPs. Then, an in vivo pharmacokinetics of intravenous and oral buspirone (BUS), a probe substrate for CYP3A, was studied with the concurrent administration of oral GLY in rats. In the in vitro CYP inhibition study, CYP3A was involved in the metabolism of GLY. Moreover, GLY inhibited CYP3A activity with an IC50 of 20.1 ± 10.7 μM via a mixed inhibition mechanism. In the in vivo rat pharmacokinetic study, single oral GLY dose enhanced the area under plasma concentration–time curve (AUC) of intravenous and oral BUS, but the extent of increase in AUC was only minimal (1.12–1.45 fold). These results indicate that GLY can inhibit the in vitro CYP3A‐mediated drug metabolism in RLM via a mixed inhibition mechanism. However, the impact of single oral GLY dose on the pharmacokinetics of BUS in rats was limited, showing that GLY could function as merely a weak inhibitor for CYP3A‐mediated drug metabolism in vivo. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
FFT‐based multidimensional linear attack on PRESENT using the 2‐bit‐fixed characteristic
Authors: Zheng Lei , Zhang Shao‐wu
Published: May 2015

Linear cryptanalysis is one of the most important cryptanalysis methods and remains vital in the cryptography research up to now. Many derivatives, improvements, and generations of linear cryptanalysis have been introduced to attack the ciphers of different designs. This paper defines a new characteristic of the cryptographic function, called 2‐bit‐fixed characteristic, as a generation of the linear characteristic. Compared with the linear characteristic, it restricts the input more severely to obtain a larger output bias. Using the characteristic, this paper gives a multidimensional linear attack on 27‐round PRESENT with a computation complexity of 274 encryptions, where the fast Fourier transform is employed to deduct the computation complexity. The attack is the first attack on the 27‐round PRESENT of 80 bits master key, verified by experiments for reduced‐round versions, in which we successfully attack 14‐round and 15‐round PRESENT with data complexities of 228 and 231, respectively. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular cloning and characterization of a novel GH13 saccharifying α‐amylase AmyC from Corallococcus sp. EGB
Authors: Wu Jiale , Xia Bingjie , Li Zhoukun , Ye Xianfeng , Chen Qiongzhen , Dong Weiliang , Zhou Jie , Huang Yan , Cui Zhongli
Published: May 2015

A novel amylase AmyC gene (amyC) from Corallococcus sp. EGB was cloned and expressed in Esherichia coli. Analysis of the sequence homology showed that AmyC shared 92% identity with the putative α‐amylase from Corallococcus coralloides DSM 2259 and formed a separate branch from other amylases. The recombinant AmyC (rAmyC) was purified and biochemically characterized. rAmyC hydrolyzes various starch and maltooligosaccharides larger than G4 to glucose to maltotetraose without production of other oligosaccharides, indicating that it is a special saccharifying α‐amylase. AmyC possesses weak but significant α‐1, 6‐bond cleaving activity and transglycosylation activity. The time course of the reaction with maltotriose as a substrate evidently showed the formation of oligosaccharide of degree of polymerization (DP4) by glycosyl transfer. The substrate specificities and end products analysis showed that the hydrolytic pattern of rAmyC is unique. rAmyC exhibited maximum hydrolysis activity at 50°C in 50 mM sodium phosphate buffer (pH 6.0) with a specific activity of 180 U/mg. Its activity towards starch was independent of calcium ions and activated by dithiothreitol. These results indicate that AmyC is a novel endo multifunctional amylase possessing distinct characteristics.
Physicochemical properties of Amorphophallus paeoniifolius (Dennst.) Nicolson starch and its blend with konjac glucomannan
Authors: Meng Fanbing , Liang Yexing , Shuai Tiangang , Xiong Jiayan , Zhong Geng
Published: May 2015

The physicochemical properties of Amorphophallus paeoniifolius (Dennst.) Nicolson starch (APS) and the properties of the starch plus konjac glucomannan (APS/KGM) were systematically studied. The results showed that APS had a polyhedral granular shape with sharp and protruding edges, and that the X‐ray diffraction indicates an A‐type pattern. Compared with corn starch (COS) and tapioca starch (TAS), the amylose content, relative crystallinity, and enthalpy of APS were higher. APS had the highest anti‐α‐amylase hydrolyzable property and retrogradation ratio, and it had the worst freeze–thaw stability. The pasting temperature of APS paste was the highest, then decreased with KGM addition, the peak viscosity of APS paste was higher than COS and lower than TAS, the same trend for their blends with KGM. The paste of APS, which had higher pseudoplasticity and a higher thixotropic effect than did COS and TAS, showed predominantly elastic behavior and typical weakened gel structures. The storage modulus G′ and loss modulus G″ of APS/KGM were higher than those of APS alone, and it showed more frequency dependence than did TAS/KGM but less than COS/KGM.