bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving Antenatal Prediction of Small‐for‐Gestational‐Age Neonates by Using Customized Versus Population‐Based Reference Standards
Authors: Landres Inna V. , Clark Aundrea , Chasen Stephen T.
Published: August 2013

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether the use of customized fetal reference standards improves the prenatal detection of intrauterine growth restriction.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study. Singleton pregnancies with a diagnosis of a small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA) fetus based on the in utero reference standard of Hadlock et al (Am J Obstet Gynecol 1985; 151:333–337; Radiology 1991; 181:129–133) were identified from our ultrasound database, and customized percentiles were calculated by adjusting for maternal height, weight, ethnicity, parity, and sex.

Results

A total of 300 pregnancies were identified as SGA by both the Hadlock and customized standards, and 60 were identified as SGA by the Hadlock standard only. Small‐for‐gestational age pregnancies identified by the Hadlock standard only were significantly less likely to have any abnormal sonographic findings, including an elevated head to abdominal circumference ratio (8.3% versus 21.7%; P = .019), oligohydramnios (3.3% versus 13%; P = .027), abnormal umbilical artery Doppler findings (3.4% versus 14.7%; P = .017), maternal hypertensive disease (3.3% versus 12.7%; P = .041), and preterm delivery (6.7% versus 27.7%; P < .001). There was no difference in neonatal intensive care unit admission rates; however, neonates identified as SGA by the Hadlock standard only were less likely to have a postnatal diagnosis of SGA (9.1% versus 78.3%; P < .001) and had a shorter neonatal intensive care unit stay (median, 2 versus 8 days; P < .001).

Conclusions

Using a customized standard, we have identified a population of pregnancies with low rates of antenatal complications and sonographic findings associated with pathologic growth. Adoption of customized standards to improve our antenatal detection rate of intrauterine growth restriction may decrease the need for intervention in healthy but constitutionally small fetuses.
Effect of B‐Mode Optimization Techniques on Fetal Bowel Echogenicity Using Computerized Image Analysis
Authors: Karayanni-Ammuri Rasha , Ohel Gonen , Degani Shimon , Zreik Amer , Odeh Marwan , Shapiro Israel , Leibovitz Zvi
Published: August 2013

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to provide and compare measurable parameters for normal fetal bowel echogenicity under predefined B‐mode scanning presets.

Methods

Forty healthy fetuses underwent 14‐ to 17‐week ultrasound scans, and 40 underwent 21‐ to 25‐week scans. Sagittal, coronal, and axial fetal abdominal images were tested using predefined B‐mode presets. The presets differed from fundamental imaging by isolated activation of harmonic imaging, compound resolution imaging, speckle reduction imaging, focus and frequency composite imaging, and coded excitation imaging features. A transabdominal probe was used in all fetuses, and transvaginal images were added for the 14‐ to 17‐week scans. The images were studied with custom‐developed software, which provided a grayscale analysis of the pixels in the region of interest within the image. The mean brightness of the pixels from the fetal bowel area was calculated.

Results

The 14‐ to 17‐week transabdominal scans showed significantly higher mean brightness on harmonic imaging compared to fundamental imaging (P < .01). Activation of coded excitation and compound resolution imaging in these scans resulted in a significant decrease in the mean brightness compared to fundamental imaging. Mean bowel brightness values on the 21‐ to 25‐week transabdominal scans did not differ significantly with the use of the different imaging presets compared to fundamental imaging.

Conclusions

Transabdominal harmonic imaging in the early second trimester may significantly increase the mean brightness of the fetal bowel tissue. Contrarily, compound resolution imaging and coded excitation imaging produce the opposite effect on bowel echogenicity.
Sonography as a Tool for Identifying Engaging Hill‐Sachs Lesions
Authors: Van Lancker Hans P. , Martineau Paul A. , Khoury Viviane
Published: August 2013

Engaging Hill‐Sachs lesions can be a factor predictive of recurrent anterior shoulder instability, yet no method has been recognized as an effective means to predict engagement. We evaluated the ability of sonography to identify engaging Hill‐Sachs lesions by using a transaxillary approach and dynamic scanning. In patients with engaging lesions, there was an abrupt change in the contour of the humeral head when the shoulder was in 90° of abduction and 90° of external rotation. Sonography therefore has the potential to be a useful preoperative tool in determining which patients may benefit from a surgical repair that also addresses Hill‐Sachs lesions.
Optimal control of convective drying of saturated porous materials
Authors: Kowalski S. J. , Rybicki A. , Rajewska K.
Published: August 2013

Numerical simulations of optimal control applied to saturated capillary‐porous materials subjected to convective drying are presented. The optimization process is concerned with such drying parameters as drying rate, energy consumption, and product quality. The thermo‐hydro‐mechanical model of drying is developed to describe the kinetics of drying and to determine the drying‐induced stresses which are responsible for damage of dried products. The effective and the admissible stresses are defined and used to formulate the Huber‐von Mises–Hencky strength criterion enabling assessment of possible material damage. The method of genetic algorithm is used for operation with drying conditions in such a way as to ensure minimum energy consumption and to get the effective stress less than the strength of dried material, and thus, to preserve a good quality of dried products at possibly high drying rate. Numerically simulated optimal drying processes are illustrated on the examples of finite dimensions of kaolin‐clay cylinders subjected to convective drying. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 4846–4857, 2013
Airport apron capacity: estimation, representation, and flexibility
Authors: Mirkovic Bojana , Tosic Vojin
Published: August 2013

This paper addresses some important issues related to airport apron capacity planning and management. An overview of existing apron models for supporting planning studies and for optimizing available resources utilization is given, with an emphasis on analytical models for apron capacity estimation. Constraints on apron usage, physical and operational with respect to different users, are discussed in detail, together with their impact on apron capacity. Simple extension of existing apron capacity estimation models is suggested accounting for constraints both on aircraft types and dominant users. Further on, instead of expressing apron capacity through a single number, an apron capacity envelope is used to illustrate capacity changes, that is, an apron's ability to accept various mixes of dominant users in demand. The apron capacity envelope provides information on capacity for one apron configuration (with respect to stand size and policy of usage) and a given fleet mix, for different shares of dominant users in demand. Finally, apron capacity flexibility is discussed with respect to its role in apron capacity planning and management. It is suggested how to express and interpret apron capacity flexibility. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Leveraging systems biology approaches in clinical pharmacology
Authors: Melas Ioannis N. , Kretsos Kosmas , Alexopoulos Leonidas G.
Published: August 2013

Computational modeling has been adopted in all aspects of drug research and development, from the early phases of target identification and drug discovery to the late‐stage clinical trials. The different questions addressed during each stage of drug R&D has led to the emergence of different modeling methodologies. In the research phase, systems biology couples experimental data with elaborate computational modeling techniques to capture lifecycle and effector cellular functions (e.g. metabolism, signaling, transcription regulation, protein synthesis and interaction) and integrates them in quantitative models. These models are subsequently used in various ways, i.e. to identify new targets, generate testable hypotheses, gain insights on the drug's mode of action (MOA), translate preclinical findings, and assess the potential of clinical drug efficacy and toxicity. In the development phase, pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) modeling is the established way to determine safe and efficacious doses for testing at increasingly larger, and more pertinent to the target indication, cohorts of subjects. First, the relationship between drug input and its concentration in plasma is established. Second, the relationship between this concentration and desired or undesired PD responses is ascertained. Recognizing that the interface of systems biology with PK/PD will facilitate drug development, systems pharmacology came into existence, combining methods from PK/PD modeling and systems engineering explicitly to account for the implicated mechanisms of the target system in the study of drug–target interactions. Herein, a number of popular system biology methodologies are discussed, which could be leveraged within a systems pharmacology framework to address major issues in drug development. © 2013 The Authors. Biopharmaceutics & Drug Disposition published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Management of reproduction and pregnancy complications in maternal obesity: Which role for dietary polyphenols?
Authors: Santangelo Carmela , Varì Rosaria , Scazzocchio Beatrice , Filesi Carmelina , Masella Roberta
Published: August 2013

Obesity is a global and dramatic public health problem; maternal obesity represents one of the main risk factors of infertility and pregnancy complications as it is associated with adverse maternal and offspring outcomes. In the last few years, adipose tissue dysfunction associated with altered adipocytokine secretion has been suggested to play a critical role in all the phases of reproductive process. Obesity is a nutrition‐related disorder. In this regard, dietary intervention strategies, such as high intake of fruit and vegetables, have shown significant effects in both preserving health and counteracting obesity‐associated diseases. Evidence has been provided that polyphenols, important constituents of plant‐derived food, can influence developmental program of oocyte and embryo, as well as pregnancy progression by modulating several cellular pathways. This review will examine the controversial results so far obtained on adipocytokine involvement in fertility impairment and pregnancy complications. Furthermore, the different effects exerted by polyphenols on oocyte, embryo, and pregnancy development will be also taken in account. © 2013 BioFactors, 40(1):79–102, 2014
Inhibition of hydroxycinnamic acid sulfation by flavonoids and their conjugated metabolites
Authors: Wong Chi Chun , Williamson Gary
Published: August 2013

Hydroxycinnamic acids and flavonoids are dietary phenolic antioxidants that are abundant in our diet. Hydroxycinnamic acids are highly sulfated in vivo, and sulfotransferases (SULTs), in particular SULT1A1, play a major role in their metabolism. Flavonoids are potent inhibitors of human SULTs. In this study, the potential metabolic interaction between dietary hydroxycinnamic acids and flavonoids was investigated. Flavonoids, such as luteolin, quercetin, daidzein, and genistein, are identified as potent inhibitors of hydroxycinnamic acid sulfation in human liver S9 homogenate with IC50 values <1 µM. The inhibitory activity was less potent in the human intestinal S9 homogenate. We also demonstrate that quercetin conjugates found in vivo (quercetin‐3‐O‐glucuronide, quercetin‐7‐O‐glucuronide, and quercetin‐3′‐O‐sulfate) moderately inhibited the sulfation of hydroxycinnamic acids in human liver S9. In an intact cellular system, human HepG2 cells, caffeic acid and ferulic acid sulfation was inhibited by luteolin and quercetin (IC50: 1.6–3.9 µM). Quercetin‐3′‐O‐sulfate weakly inhibited sulfation. Quercetin glucuronides, limited by their low cellular uptake, were ineffective. These data suggest that the inhibition of SULTs by flavonoids and in vivo flavonoid conjugates may modify the bioavailability of dietary hydroxycinnamic acids by suppressing their conversion to sulfated metabolites. © 2013 BioFactors, 39(6):644–651, 2013
Omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and proanthocyanidins improve postprandial metabolic flexibility in rat
Authors: Casanova Ester , Baselga‐Escudero Laura , Ribas‐Latre Aleix , Arola‐Arnal Anna , Bladé Cinta , Arola Lluís , Salvadó M. Josepa
Published: August 2013

Postprandial lipemia influences the development of atherosclerosis, which itself constitutes a risk factor for the development of cardiovascular diseases. The introduction of bioactive compounds may prevent these deleterious effects. Proanthocyanidins are potent antioxidants that have hypolipidemic properties, while omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω3 PUFAs) stimulate fatty acid oxidation and gene expression programs, controlling mitochondrial functions. In this study, we investigated the effects of acute treatment of ω3 PUFAs and proanthocyanidins on the metabolic flexibility and lipid handling profiles in the skeletal muscle and adipose tissue of rats that were raised on diets, high in saturated fatty acids. For this, oil rich in docosahexaenoic (DHA‐OR), grape seed proanthocyanidins extract (GSPE), or both substances (GSPE + DHA‐OR) were administered with an overload of lard oil to healthy Wistar rats. Our results indicate that the addition of DHA‐OR to lard oil increases insulin sensitivity and redirects fatty acids toward skeletal muscle, thereby activating fatty acid oxidation. We also observed an improvement in adipose mitochondrial functionality and uncoupling. In contrast, GSPE lowers lipidemia, prevents muscle reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and damage, furthermore, activates mitochondrial biogenesis and lipogenesis in adipose tissue. The addition of GSPE+DHA‐OR to lard resulted in nearly all the effects of DHA‐OR and GSPE administered individually, but the combined administration resulted in a more attenuated profile. © 2013 BioFactors, 40(1):146–156, 2014
Berberine acts as a natural inhibitor of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling—Identification of more active 13‐arylalkyl derivatives
Authors: Albring Kai Frederik , Weidemüller Julia , Mittag Sonnhild , Weiske Jörg , Friedrich Karlheinz , Geroni M. Cristina , Lombardi Paolo , Huber Otmar
Published: August 2013

Aberrant activation of the canonical Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway has been reported for numerous tumors of different origins. In most cases, mutations in components of the Wnt signaling pathway or in β‐catenin itself were detected which ultimately induce a genetic program that promotes cell proliferation and attenuates apoptosis. Thus, targeting of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling is of specific therapeutic interest. Herein, we investigated the plant‐derived isoquinoline alkaloid berberine, which has been reported to have anticancer activity, and synthetic 13‐arylalkyl derivatives thereof for their effects on Wnt/β‐catenin signaling. Berberine did not show major effects on viability of HEK‐293 embryonic kidney and HCT116 colon carcinoma cells and was not toxic in concentrations up to 20 µM. Berberine inhibited β‐catenin transcriptional activity and attenuated anchorage‐independent growth. As a result of berberine treatment, cellular levels of active β‐catenin were reduced concomitant with an increase in the expression of E‐cadherin. However, in unstimulated cells, the effects on β‐catenin levels were low. A screen of synthetic 13‐arylalkyl berberine derivatives identified compounds exhibiting activities superior to those of the naturally occurring parent substance with more than 100‐fold lower EC50 values for Wnt‐repression. Thus, berberine and its synthetic derivatives represent potential therapeutic agents to inhibit Wnt/β‐catenin signaling in tumorigenesis. © 2013 BioFactors, 39(6):652–662, 2013
Development and validation of an LCMS method to determine the pharmacokinetic profiles of caffeic acid phenethyl amide and caffeic acid phenethyl ester in male Sprague–Dawley rats
Authors: Yang John , Bowman Phillip D. , Kerwin Sean M. , Stavchansky Salomon
Published: August 2013

A validated LCMS method was developed for the quantitative determination of caffeic acid phenethyl amide (CAPA) and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) from rat plasma. Separation was achieved using a reverse‐phase C12 HPLC column (150 × 2.00 mm, 4 µm) with gradient elution running water (A) and acetonitrile (B). Mass spectrometry was performed with electrospray ionization in negative mode. This method was used to determine the pharmacokinetic profiles of CAPA and CAPE in male Sprague–Dawley rats following intravenous bolus administration of 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg of CAPA and 20 mg/kg of CAPE. The pharmacokinetic analysis suggests the lack of dose proportionality in the dose range of 5–20 mg/kg of CAPA. Total clearance values for CAPA ranged from 45 to 156 mL/min and decreased with increasing dose of CAPA. The volume of distribution for CAPA ranged from 17,750 to 52,420 mL, decreasing with increasing dose. The elimination half‐life for CAPA ranged from 243.1 to 295.8 min and no statistically significant differences were observed between dose groups in the range of 5–20 mg/kg (p > 0.05). The elimination half‐life for CAPE was found to be 92.26 min. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simple and validated UHPLC method coupled to UV detection for determination of daptomycin in human plasma and urine
Authors: Naito Takafumi , Yamada Takahiro , Yagi Tatsuya , Kawakami Junichi
Published: August 2013

Daptomycin, a lipopeptide antibiotic with excellent activity against Gram‐positive bacteria, is excreted primarily by the kidneys. Development of effective chromatographic methodologies for the determination of daptomycin in human specimens is necessary for clinical use. This study developed a simple and validated ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography method coupled to ultraviolet detection for determination of daptomycin in human plasma and urine. After the pretreatments involving protein precipitation, the supernatants were separated using a 2.3 µm particle size octadecylsilyl column, and the run time was 1 min. The calibration curves were linear over the concentration ranges of 2–200 mg/L for plasma and 25–300 mg/L for urine. Intra‐ and inter‐assay precision and accuracy values of plasma were within 13.5 and 92–100% and within 10.7 and 100–107%, respectively. Those of urine were within 5.0 and 101–104% and within 3.7 and 100–101%, respectively. The validated method was applied to the determination of plasma and urine samples in patients receiving 4–6 mg/kg of intravenous daptomycin, resulting in sufficient sensitivity for evaluating the plasma exposure and urinary excretion. In conclusion, the present method with acceptable analytical performance can be helpful for evaluating the pharmacokinetic disposition of daptomycin in clinical settings. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Structural organization and function of mouse photoreceptor ribbon synapses involve the immunoglobulin protein synaptic cell adhesion molecule 1
Authors: Ribic Adema , Liu Xinran , Crair Michael C. , Biederer Thomas
Published: August 2013

Adhesive interactions in the retina instruct the developmental specification of inner retinal layers. However, potential roles of adhesion in the development and function of photoreceptor synapses remain incompletely understood. This contrasts with our understanding of synapse development in the CNS, which can be guided by select adhesion molecules such as the Synaptic Cell Adhesion Molecule 1 (SynCAM 1/CADM1/nectin‐like 2 protein). This immunoglobulin superfamily protein modulates the development and plasticity of classical excitatory synapses. We show here by immunoelectron microscopy and immunoblotting that SynCAM 1 is expressed on mouse rod photoreceptors and their terminals in the outer nuclear and plexiform layers in a developmentally regulated manner. Expression of SynCAM 1 on rods is low in early postnatal stages (P3–P7) but increases after eye opening (P14). In support of functional roles in the photoreceptors, electroretinogram recordings demonstrate impaired responses to light stimulation in SynCAM 1 knockout (KO) mice. In addition, the structural integrity of synapses in the OPL requires SynCAM 1. Quantitative ultrastructural analysis of SynCAM 1 KO retina measured fewer fully assembled, triadic rod ribbon synapses. Furthermore, rod synapse ribbons are shortened in KO mice, and protein levels of Ribeye, a major structural component of ribbons, are reduced in SynCAM 1 KO retina. Together, our results implicate SynCAM 1 in the synaptic organization of the rod visual pathway and provide evidence for novel roles of synaptic adhesion in the structural and functional integrity of ribbon synapses. J. Comp. Neurol. 522:900–920, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Electron tomography on γ‐aminobutyric acid‐ergic synapses reveals a discontinuous postsynaptic network of filaments
Authors: Linsalata Alexander E. , Chen Xiaobing , Winters Christine A. , Reese Thomas S.
Published: August 2013

The regulation of synaptic strength at γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)‐ergic synapses is dependent on the dynamic capture, retention, and modulation of GABA A‐type receptors by cytoplasmic proteins at GABAergic postsynaptic sites. How these proteins are oriented and organized in the postsynaptic cytoplasm is not yet established. To better understand these structures and gain further insight into the mechanisms by which they regulate receptor populations at postsynaptic sites, we utilized electron tomography to examine GABAergic synapses in dissociated rat hippocampal cultures. GABAergic synapses were identified and selected for tomography by using a set of criteria derived from the structure of immunogold‐labeled GABAergic synapses. Tomography revealed a complex postsynaptic network composed of filaments that extend ∼100 nm into the cytoplasm from the postsynaptic membrane. The distribution of these postsynaptic filaments was strikingly similar to that of the immunogold label for gephyrin. Filaments were interconnected through uniform patterns of contact, forming complexes composed of 2–12 filaments each. Complexes did not link to form an integrated, continuous scaffold, suggesting that GABAergic postsynaptic specializations are less rigidly organized than glutamatergic postsynaptic densities. J. Comp. Neurol. 522:921–936, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tonotopic organization of vertical cells in the dorsal cochlear nucleus of the CBA/J mouse
Authors: Muniak Michael A. , Ryugo David K.
Published: August 2013

The systematic and topographic representation of frequency is a first principle of organization throughout the auditory system. The dorsal cochlear nucleus (DCN) receives direct tonotopic projections from the auditory nerve (AN) as well as secondary and descending projections from other sources. Among the recipients of AN input in the DCN are vertical cells (also called tuberculoventral cells), glycinergic interneurons thought to provide on‐ or near‐best‐frequency feed‐forward inhibition to principal cells in the DCN and various cells in the anteroventral cochlear nucleus (AVCN). Differing lines of physiological and anatomical evidence suggest that vertical cells and their projections are organized with respect to frequency, but this has not been conclusively demonstrated in the intact mammalian brain. To address this issue, we retrogradely labeled vertical cells via physiologically targeted injections in the AVCN of the CBA/J mouse. Results from multiple cases were merged with a normalized 3D template of the cochlear nucleus (Muniak et al. [] J. Comp. Neurol. 521:1510–1532) to demonstrate quantitatively that the arrangement of vertical cells is tonotopic and aligned to the innervation pattern of the AN. These results suggest that vertical cells are well positioned for providing immediate, frequency‐specific inhibition onto cells of the DCN and AVCN to facilitate spectral processing. J. Comp. Neurol. 522:937–949, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Expression of m1‐type muscarinic acetylcholine receptors by parvalbumin‐immunoreactive neurons in the primary visual cortex: A comparative study of rat, guinea pig, ferret, macaque, and human
Authors: Disney Anita A. , Reynolds John H.
Published: August 2013

Cholinergic neuromodulation is a candidate mechanism for aspects of arousal and attention in mammals. We have reported previously that cholinergic modulation in the primary visual cortex (V1) of the macaque monkey is strongly targeted toward GABAergic interneurons, and in particular that the vast majority of parvalbumin‐immunoreactive (PV) neurons in macaque V1 express the m1‐type (pirenzepine‐sensitive, Gq‐coupled) muscarinic ACh receptor (m1AChR). In contrast, previous physiological data indicates that PV neurons in rats rarely express pirenzepine‐sensitive muscarinic AChRs. To examine further this apparent species difference in the cholinergic effectors for the primary visual cortex, we have conducted a comparative study of the expression of m1AChRs by PV neurons in V1 of rats, guinea pigs, ferrets, macaques, and humans. We visualize PV‐ and mAChR‐immunoreactive somata by dual‐immunofluorescence confocal microscopy and find that the species differences are profound; the vast majority (>75%) of PV‐ir neurons in macaques, humans, and guinea pigs express m1AChRs. In contrast, in rats only ∼25% of the PV population is immunoreactive for m1AChRs. Our data reveal that while they do so much less frequently than in primates, PV neurons in rats do express Gq‐coupled muscarinic AChRs, which appear to have gone undetected in the previous in vitro studies. Data such as these are critical in determining the species that represent adequate models for the capacity of the cholinergic system to modulate inhibition in the primate cortex. J. Comp. Neurol. 522:986–1003, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Organization of sensory input to the nociceptive‐specific cutaneous trunk muscle reflex in rat, an effective experimental system for examining nociception and plasticity
Authors: Petruska Jeffrey C. , Barker Darrell F. , Garraway Sandra M. , Trainer Robert , Fransen James W. , Seidman Peggy A. , Soto Roy G. , Mendell Lorne M. , Johnson Richard D.
Published: August 2013

Detailed characterization of neural circuitries furthers our understanding of how nervous systems perform specific functions and allows the use of those systems to test hypotheses. We have characterized the sensory input to the cutaneous trunk muscle (CTM; also cutaneus trunci [rat] or cutaneus maximus [mouse]) reflex (CTMR), which manifests as a puckering of the dorsal thoracolumbar skin and is selectively driven by noxious stimuli. CTM electromyography and neurogram recordings in naïve rats revealed that CTMR responses were elicited by natural stimuli and electrical stimulation of all segments from C4 to L6, a much greater extent of segmental drive to the CTMR than previously described. Stimulation of some subcutaneous paraspinal tissue can also elicit this reflex. Using a selective neurotoxin, we also demonstrate differential drive of the CTMR by trkA‐expressing and nonexpressing small‐diameter afferents. These observations highlight aspects of the organization of the CTMR system that make it attractive for studies of nociception and anesthesiology and plasticity of primary afferents, motoneurons, and the propriospinal system. We use the CTMR system to demonstrate qualitatively and quantitatively that experimental pharmacological treatments can be compared with controls applied either to the contralateral side or to another segment, with the remaining segments providing controls for systemic or other treatment effects. These data indicate the potential for using the CTMR system as both an invasive and a noninvasive quantitative assessment tool providing improved statistical power and reduced animal use. J. Comp. Neurol. 522:1048–1071, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Do we need continuous glucose monitoring in type 2 diabetes?
Authors: Maurizi Anna Rita , Pozzilli Paolo
Published: August 2013

Self‐monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) is recommended as a core component of diabetic patient's management but it can provide only intermittent snapshots of blood glucose levels missing often hyperglycaemic or hypoglycaemic excursions. Similarly HbA1c alone is unable to provide detailed diagnostic information and it has several limitations. In the modern diabetes monitoring, Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) could be considered as a third pillar, since it provides information on day‐to‐day change of blood glucose levels and helps achieving treatment targets without increasing the risk of hypoglycaemia. Therefore the use of CGM may reduce glucose variability, improving glycaemic control and decreasing long‐term diabetes complications. In fact the availability of continuous glucose data for patients with low and high glucose alerts may impact quality of life with short‐ and long‐term effectiveness. Moreover CGM can be used as a powerful motivational device to change type 2 diabetic patients’ lifestyle and to improve their quality of life. Although the studies on the economic feasibility to use CGM as an educational tool must be carried out, we suggest that it can be used as a powerful motivational device to change patients’ lifestyle and to improve glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes (T2D). This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Lack of metformin effect on mouse embryo AMPK activity: implications for metformin treatment during pregnancy
Authors: Lee Hyung‐yul , Wei Dan , Loeken Mary R.
Published: August 2013

Background

Adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) is stimulated in embryos during diabetic pregnancy by maternal hyperglycaemia‐induced embryo oxidative stress. Stimulation of AMPK disrupts embryo gene expression and causes neural tube defects. Metformin, which may be taken during early pregnancy, has been reported to stimulate AMPK activity. Thus, the benefits of improved glycaemic control could be offset by stimulated embryo AMPK activity. Here, we investigated whether metformin can stimulate AMPK activity in mouse embryos and can adversely affect embryo gene expression and neural tube defects.

Methods

Pregnant nondiabetic mice were administered metformin beginning on the first day of pregnancy. Activation of maternal and embryo AMPK [phospho‐AMPK α (Thr172) relative to total AMPK], expression of Pax3, a gene required for neural tube closure, and neural tube defects were studied. Mouse embryonic stem cells were used as a cell culture model of embryonic neuroepithelium to study metformin effects on AMPK and Pax3 expression.

Results

Metformin had no effect on AMPK in embryos or maternal skeletal muscle but increased activated AMPK in maternal liver. Metformin did not inhibit Pax3 expression or increase neural tube defects. However, metformin increased activated AMPK and inhibited Pax3 expression by mouse embryonic stem cells. Mate1/Slc47a1 and Oct3/Slc22a, which encode metformin transporters, were expressed at barely detectable levels by embryos.

Conclusions

Although metformin can have effects associated with diabetic embryopathy in vitro, the lack of effects on mouse embryos in vivo may be due to lack of metformin transporters and indicates that the benefits of metformin on glycaemic control are not counteracted by stimulation of embryo AMPK activity and consequent embryopathy. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Population genetics structure of glyphosate‐resistant Johnsongrass (Sorghum halepense L. Pers) does not support a single origin of the resistance
Authors: Fernández Luis , de Haro Luis Alejandro , Distefano Ana J. , Carolina Martínez Maria , Lía Verónica , Papa Juan C. , Olea Ignacio , Tosto Daniela , Esteban Hopp Horacio
Published: August 2013

Single sequence repeats (SSR) developed for Sorghum bicolor were used to characterize the genetic distance of 46 different Sorghum halepense (Johnsongrass) accessions from Argentina some of which have evolved toward glyphosate resistance. Since Johnsongrass is an allotetraploid and only one subgenome is homologous to cultivated sorghum, some SSR loci amplified up to two alleles while others (presumably more conserved loci) amplified up to four alleles. Twelve SSR providing information of 24 loci representative of Johnsongrass genome were selected for genetic distance characterization. All of them were highly polymorphic, which was evidenced by the number of different alleles found in the samples studied, in some of them up to 20. UPGMA and Mantel analysis showed that Johnsongrass glyphosate‐resistant accessions that belong to different geographic regions do not share similar genetic backgrounds. In contrast, they show closer similarity to their neighboring susceptible counterparts. Discriminant Analysis of Principal Components using the clusters identified by K‐means support the lack of a clear pattern of association among samples and resistance status or province of origin. Consequently, these results do not support a single genetic origin of glyphosate resistance. Nucleotide sequencing of the 5‐enolpyruvylshikimate‐3‐phosphate synthase (EPSPS) encoding gene from glyphosate‐resistant and susceptible accessions collected from different geographic origins showed that none presented expected mutations in aminoacid positions 101 and 106 which are diagnostic of target‐site resistance mechanism.
Reach‐scale movements of bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) relative to hydropeaking operations in the Columbia River, Canada
Authors: Taylor Mark K. , Hasler Caleb T. , Hinch Scott G. , Lewis Bronwen , Schmidt Dana C. , Cooke Steven J.
Published: August 2013

Despite the widespread use of on‐demand hydropeaking operations for generating electricity from rivers, relatively little is known about how pulsed flows influence the behaviour of fishes. We studied the movements of bull trout by using radio telemetry in a hydropeaking reach of the upper Columbia River, near Revelstoke, British Columbia, Canada. Fifty‐seven bull trout were located every 12 h to evaluate the effects of discharge magnitude and rate of change on the: (1) odds of movement; (2) movement distances; and (3) movement direction. Twelve‐hour mean discharge magnitude had a negative effect on the odds of bull movement: for every 100 m3 s−1 increase in discharge, movement odds decreased by a factor of 0·91. Movement odds were unrelated to 12‐h discharge rate of change. Every 1 °C increase in water temperature increased movement odds by a factor of 1·27. Also, bull trout were more likely to move during the AM versus PM by a factor of 1·36. Movement distances were related to diel period, sex and fork length; however, these effects were not very strong. We found no evidence of downstream displacement during periods of high or changing river discharge. In fact, movement direction was unpredictable, which is consistent with the salmonid non‐migratory movement literature. Collectively, these findings provide insight into the biology of bull trout during an understudied seasonal life‐history period (i.e. autumn). It also informs river managers that bull trout movement can be modulated by operational water release from a dam. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evolution, detrimental effects, and removal of oxygen in microalga cultures: A review
Authors: Peng Licheng , Lan Christopher Q. , Zhang Zisheng
Published: August 2013

Large quantity of oxygen evolves as a byproduct of photosynthesis in microalga cultivation. As a result, dissolved oxygen of 100–400% air saturation or even higher is commonly observed in microalgal cultures. High concentration of dissolved oxygen may inhibit photosynthesis, cause photochemical damages to photosynthetic apparatus and other cellular components, result in reduction of cell growth or even culture collapse. Effective deoxygenation mechanisms are required to maintain dissolved oxygen at a level that is not inhibitory. This remains a significant challenge despite of the enormous technical advances in this field and information on large scale photobioreactors are scarce, which warrants systematic future studies, especially with controlled large‐scale systems, in this important field. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 32: 982–988, 2013
Structure characterization and optimization of process parameters on compressive properties of glass‐based foam composites
Authors: Francis A.A. , Abdel Rahman M.K.
Published: August 2013

The influence of process parameters, including temperature, reaction time, and amount of foaming agent (SiC), on compressive property and porosity of glass‐based foam composites was studied by Box‐Behnken experimental design. The interaction between the process parameters and their statistical significance on porosity and compressive strength was assessed through ANOVA. The glass‐based foams, prepared from silicate wastes, were characterized by XRD, SEM, DSC, and compressive tests. Processing temperature was considered as the most significant factor. The two crystalline phases resulting from the heat treatment at 900–1000˚C have been identified as Ca2Mg0.75Al0.25Si1.75O7 and CaSiO3. Two quadratic equations, correlating the compressive strength and porosity with the three process parameters, were developed whose R2 values are 0.9977 and 0.935, respectively. The optimal process parameter settings to achieve an adequate porosity (56.6%) and high compressive strength (11.7 MPa) were determined. The glass‐based products exhibited typical behavior of brittle foams. The stress‐displacement curve implies that the failure mode is mainly due to damage accumulation process. Box‐Behnken experimental design offers a cost effective option in the mass production of a wide range of glass‐based foam products with promising engineering applications. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 33: 800–807, 2014
Fate of tylosin a and its effect on anaerobic digestion using two tylosin inclusion methods
Authors: Wang Xiaoqing , Guo Ruipeng , Ma Baohua , Liang Juanboo , Liao Xindi , Wu Yinbao
Published: August 2013

This study examined the fate and effects of tylosin (TYL) on anaerobic digestion of swine wastewater at two concentrations of tylosin A (TYLA) using manure collected from swine fed with TYLA (TYLFED) or direct addition of TYLA (TYLADD) to antibiotic‐free swine manure, to examine whether there are differences between the two TYL addition methods on methane production and other fermentation parameters. TYLA and tylosin D (TYLD) concentrations, pH, Chemical oxygen demand (COD), Total nitrogen (TN), and diversity of methanogenic archaea population were parameters used for this study. The results showed that concentrations of TYLA and TYLD in the TYLFED treatment were higher (P < 0.05) than those in the TYLADD treatment. Methane production in the TYLFEDH and TYLFEDL was reduced by 35.52% and 37.06%, respectively, compared with the control during the 7 days addition period; but for TYLADDH and TYLADDL, the decrease (P < 0.05) was only 12.98% and 7.84%, respectively. The diversity index of methanogenic archaea in the TYLFED treatment were lower than that in the control and the TYLADD on Day 4, but no difference (P > 0.05) between the control and the TYLADD treatment was observed. pH, COD, and TN were not affected by treatment. Our results showed clear differences in the rate of methane inhibition by the two antibiotic inclusion methods; been higher for the TYLFED treatment than the TYLADD treatment. Since the former method resembles more under actual farm conditions, we suggested that studies on effects of antibiotic residues on anaerobic fermentation should adopt such an approach. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 33: 808–813, 2014
Seismic behavior and strength capacity of steel tube‐reinforced concrete composite columns
Authors: Ji Xiaodong , Kang Hongzhen , Chen Xingchen , Qian Jiaru
Published: August 2013

The steel tube‐reinforced concrete (ST‐RC) composite column is a novel type of composite column, which consists of a steel tube embedded in RC. In this paper, the seismic behavior of ST‐RC columns is examined through a series of experiments in which 10 one‐third scale column specimens were subjected to axial forces and lateral cyclic loading. The test variables include the axial force ratio applied to the columns and the amount of transverse reinforcement. All specimens failed in a flexural mode, showing stable hysteresis loops. Thanks to the steel tube and the high‐strength concrete it is filled with, the ST‐RC column specimens had approximately 30% lower axial force ratios and 22% higher maximum bending moments relative to the comparable RC columns when subjected to identical axial compressive loads. The amount of transverse reinforcement made only a small difference to the lateral load‐carrying capacity but significantly affected the deformation and energy dissipation capacity of the ST‐RC columns. The specimens that satisfied the requirements for transverse reinforcement adopted for medium ductile RC columns as specified by the Chinese Code for Seismic Design of Buildings (GB 50011‐2010) and EuroCode 8 achieved an ultimate drift ratio of around 0.03 and a displacement ductility ratio of approximately 5. The design formulas used to evaluate the strength capacity of the ST‐RC columns were developed on the basis of the superposition method. The predictions from the formulas showed good agreement with the test results, with errors no greater than 10%. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ecotoxicity of climbazole, a fungicide contained in antidandruff shampoo
Authors: Richter Elisabeth , Wick Arne , Ternes Thomas A. , Coors Anja
Published: August 2013

Emerging pollutants such as personal care products can reach the environment via effluents from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and digested sludge. Only recently, the antidandruff agent and antimycotic climbazole was detected for the first time in a WWTP effluent with concentrations up to 0.5 µg/L. Climbazole acts as a C14-demethylase inhibitor (DMI) fungicide and thus has a high efficacy against fungi, but knowledge of its potential environmental impact is lacking. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to characterize climbazole's ecotoxicity by conducting standard biotests with organisms representing different trophic levels from the aquatic as well as the terrestrial ecosystems. It was found that the toxicity of climbazole is mostly similar to that of other DMI fungicides, whereas it proved to be particularly toxic to primary producers. The lowest median effective concentrations (EC50s) were determined for Lemna minor, at 0.013 mg/L (biomass yield), and Avena sativa, at 18.5 mg/kg soil dry weight (shoot biomass). Reduction of frond size in water lentils and shoot length in higher plants suggested an additional plant growth–retarding mode of action of climbazole. In addition, it was demonstrated here that for an ionizable compound such as climbazole, the soil pH can have a considerable influence on phytotoxicity. Environ Toxicol Chem 2013;32:2816–2825. © 2013 SETAC
Changes in cellular energy allocation in Enchytraeus albidus when exposed to dimethoate, atrazine, and carbendazim
Authors: Novais Sara C. , Amorim Mónica J.B.
Published: August 2013

Cellular energy allocation (CEA) is a methodology developed to evaluate the effects of toxic stress on the metabolic balance of organisms. It consists of the integration of the energy reserves available (Ea; total carbohydrate, protein and lipid content) and energy consumption (Ec) estimated by measuring electron transport system (ETS) activity. The main goal of the present study was to evaluate the effects on the energy budget of the soil invertebrate Enchytraeus albidus (Oligochaeta) after exposure to dimethoate, atrazine, and carbendazim (by testing the reproduction 10% effective concentration, 20% effective concentration, 50% effective concentration and 90% effective concentration) over periods of time from 0 d to 2 d, 4 d, and 8 d. Significant changes in energy reserves were observed with all pesticides, together with effects on energy consumption. Carbohydrates were the first energy source to be used, and clear depletions occurred with all pesticides. Energy consumption increased generally over longer exposures and with higher concentrations of the pesticides. Although clear changes were seen in the individual energy reserve budgets and on Ec, CEA was only significantly reduced with atrazine exposures longer than 4 d. The nearly absent effects on CEA at concentrations known to affect reproduction indicate that the reduction in reproduction is not likely to be caused by a reduction in the total energy budget during the first 8 d of exposure. The present study showed the importance of complementing CEA interpretation with the individual Ea and Ec parameters, in particular if these show opposite balances. The Ea and Ec results were in good agreement with gene transcription results from a parallel study, hence suggesting translation and showing the advantage of combining various effect levels to advance the understanding of mechanisms. Environ Toxicol Chem 2013;32:2800–2807. © 2013 SETAC
Influence of soil pH on the toxicity of zinc oxide nanoparticles to the terrestrial isopod Porcellionides pruinosus
Authors: Tourinho Paula S. , van Gestel Cornelis A.M. , Lofts Stephen , Soares Amadeu M.V.M. , Loureiro Susana
Published: August 2013

The effects of soil pH on the toxicity of ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) to the terrestrial isopod Porcellionides pruinosus were evaluated. Isopods were exposed to a natural soil amended with CaCO3 to reach 3 different pHCaCl2 levels (4.5, 6.2, and 7.3) and to standard LUFA 2.2 soil (pH 5.5) spiked with ZnO NPs (30 nm), non-nano ZnO (200 nm), and ionic Zn as ZnCl2. Toxicity was expressed based on total Zn concentration in soil, as well as total Zn and free Zn2+ ion concentrations in porewater. Compared with ZnO-spiked soils, the ZnCl2-spiked soils had lower pH and higher porewater Ca2+ and Zn levels. Isopod survival did not differ between Zn forms and soils, but survival was higher for isopods exposed to ZnO NPs at pH 4.5. Median effect concentrations (EC50s) for biomass change showed similar trends for all Zn forms in all soils, with higher values at intermediate pH. Median lethal concentration (LC50) and EC50 values based on porewater Zn or free Zn ion concentrations were much lower for ZnO than for ionic zinc. Zn body concentrations increased in a dose-related manner, but no effect of soil pH was found. It is suggested not only that dissolved or free Zn in porewater contributed to uptake and toxicity, but also that oral uptake (i.e., ingestion of soil particles) could be an important additional route of exposure. Environ Toxicol Chem 2013;32:2808–2815. © 2013 SETAC