bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparative Trial of Digoxin and Digitoxin in the Treatment of Congestive Heart Failure
Authors: Bussey Henry I. , Hawkins David W. , Gaspard J. J. , Walsh Richard A.
Published: December 2015

A randomized, crossover, single‐blind study compared the efficacy and dosing accuracy of digoxin and digitoxin in 15 ambulatory patients with congestive heart failure. Loading doses and maintenance doses were calculated according to published equations that adjust for sex, height, and lean body weight (for digitoxin), plus estimated creatinine clearance (for digoxin). At each 2‐week visit, serum drug concentrations were measured and compliance with the prescribed regimen was assessed by tablet count. At the end of each study period, a congestive heart failure (CHF) score was determined in a blinded fashion by the same physician. Patient compliance was unusually high (≥80%) at every visit. Therapeutic concentrations were achieved with digoxin and digitoxin in 5 and 14 patients, respectively (p < 0.05). During digitoxin therapy, CHF scores were lower than pretreatment values (p < 0.05). The difference between CHF scores during the digoxin and digitoxin periods did not achieve significance (0.05 < p < 0.06). Therapeutic serum concentrations can be achieved more easily and frequently with digitoxin than digoxin without compromising the patient's CHF status.
Is Theophylline Use Justified in Acute Exacerbations of Asthma?
Authors: Self Timothy H. , Ellis Robert F. , Abou‐Shala Nabil , Amarshi Naseem
Published: December 2015

Despite widespread use of theophylline in the hospital management of asthma, supportive data justifying its use are sparse. Clinical research in the 1980s has forced a serious new examination of the drug's role in acute exacerbations of asthma. Because of the morbidity, mortality, questionable value, and overall cost of theophylline therapy, this reevaluation is of particular importance. Enhanced knowledge of the value of treatment with intensive inhaled ß agonists, systemic glucocorticoids, and inhaled ipratropium should prompt elimination of the routine, initial use of theophylline in emergency room care of most asthmatics. Further research is necessary to justify the routine, initial use of the drug in hospitalized asthmatics.
Effect of Cryptorchidism and Orchidopexy on Inhibin Secretion by Rat Sertoli Cells
Authors: SEETHALAKSHMI L. , STEINBERGER ANNA
Published: December 2015

The present study explored the effects of experimental bilateral cryptorchidism (of 21‐, 28‐, and 35‐days duration) and orchidopexy (14 and 42 days) in the adult rat on the secretion of inhibin by cultures of isolated Sertoli cells. Changes in serum levels of gonadotropins, testis weight, and spermatogenesis also were assessed to verify the effectiveness of the surgical procedures. Cryptorchidy resulted in a progressive decline in testicular weight and a loss of germ cells, associated with increasing serum levels of FSH and LH. Inhibin secretion in vitro became nondetectable by 28 days after surgery. At 42 days after orchidopexy, spermatogenesis showed qualitative recovery, with a small increase in testes weight. Levels of LH in the circulation declined, but only to twice the intact control levels. However, inhibin secretion and serum FSH levels returned to nearly normal values. These results indicate that bilateral cryptorchidism severely impairs the secretion of inhibin and possibly other Sertoli cell functions which may account, at least partly, for the increase in circulating FSH levels and the arrest of spermatogenesis. The effects of cryptorchidism on these parameters can be reversed to a large degree by orchidopexy.
Computerized Videomicrographic Analysis of Rat Sperm Motility
Authors: WORKING PETER K. , HURTT MARK E.
Published: December 2015

Quantitative methods for the determination of the concentration, percent motility and swimming speed of human and animal spermatozoa can assist in the objective analysis of sperm and semen quality. These parameters are among the most discriminating indicators for both clinical and toxicologic assessments of reproductive function. A computerized videomicrographic analysis system to measure sperm motility characteristics in the Fischer 344 rat was characterized and compared with both manual and semi‐automated videomicrographic methods (Blazak et al, 1985). The system compares favorably, both in accuracy and sensitivity, to these more conventional methods. The most variable indicator of potential reproductive function in the Fischer 344 rat is the total sperm count from the cauda epididymidis (coefficient of variation [CV] = 24%), while parameters of sperm motility vary least. These include percentage of motile cells (CV = 15%), curvilinear velocity (CV = 9%) and linearity (CV = 10%), which is a ratio of straight‐line to total distance traveled. It was concluded that the computerized system may be useful for routine assessment of changes in sperm quality that may occur in the rat after exposure to toxic drugs or chemicals.
The Prolactin Response of Males to a Standard MVO2 Treadmill Test
Authors: ZAWORONOK MARGUERITE E. , HUDSON ROBERT W. , ORBAN WILLIAM A.
Published: December 2015

The concentration of serum prolactin in response to a standard MVO2 treadmill stress test to self‐perceived exhaustion was investigated in 19 normal healthy males. The prolactin concentration remained stable for an interval of approximately 20 minutes from the beginning of exercise. Peak prolactin levels, observed after the subjects had stopped exercising, indicated a mean 2.6‐fold increase over pre‐exercise levels. The concentration of prolactin did not increase before an exercise intensity reflecting a VO2 of 40 ml/kg/min had been reached. There was no relationship between the MVO2 of the 19 male subjects and their prolactin increment in response to exercise;
Chronic Ethanol Ingestion During Puberty Alters the Transient Increase in Testicular 5α‐Reductase in the Swiss‐Webster Mouse
Authors: ANDERSON ROBERT A. , PHILLIPS JACK F. , ZANEVELD LOURENS J.D.
Published: December 2015

Previous experiments with inbred mice showed that chronic ethanol treatment delays male pubertal development. An initial event in sexual maturation in the rat is a transient increase in 5α‐reductase. The present study was conducted to determine whether similar ethanol effects occur in outbred mice (Swiss‐Webster), to determine the ontological profile of testicular 5α‐reductase in the mouse, and to evaluate the effect of ethanol treatment on this enzyme. After 29 days of treatment with a liquid diet (beginning at age 20 days), reductions in the ethanol‐treated mice as compared with the controls were noted in testicular weight (55.0 ± 2.0 vs. 63.0 ± 2.4 mg; P < 0.01), epididymal sperm content (6.8 × 10* vs. 14.4 × 105; P < 0.05), and sperm motility (45% vs. 57%; P < 0.05). After 43 days, differences no longer existed. In chow‐fed mice, a substantial rise in 5α‐reductase (1 unit = 1 pmole DHT formed/45 min/mg testis) began at age 24 days. Activity peaked at approximately 65 units at 25 to 30 days and gradually declined to 6.4 ± 0.8 units at 63 days. After 29 days treatment, 5α‐reductase of the pair‐fed control group was 26.8 ± 4.9 units, which decreased to a baseline value of 7.0 ± 2.1 units after 43 days treatment. In contrast, 5α‐reductase of the ethanol‐treated group remained at baseline levels after 29 days (7.7 ± 2.3 units) and 43 days of treatment (7.6 ± 2.3 units). These data show that chronic ethanol treatment delays male pubertal development in outbred mice, that a transient pubertal increase in 5α‐reductase occurs in the mouse, and that ethanol treatment may prevent the puberty‐associated rise in 5α‐reductase. Prevention of the increase in 5α‐reductase may represent at least one mechanism for ethanol‐induced delayed sexual maturation.
Transplantation of Newborn Rat Testis Under the Kidney Capsule of Adult Host as a Model to Study the Structure and Function of Leydig Cells
Authors: KUOPIO T. , SAVOURAS P. OD. , PELLINIEMI L. J. , HUHTANIEMI I.T.
Published: December 2015

Newborn rat testis was transplanted under the kidney capsule of adult castrated and uncastrated male rats to develop and characterize a model system for studies on Leydig cell development. Two weeks after transplantation, the number of Leydig cells and the size of their nuclei in the transplants had increased. Secretion of testosterone was indicated by increased seminal vesicle weights and decreased pituitary LH in the castrated host animals. Pituitary FSH content increased significantly in the uncastrated animals with transplants, which suggested production of an FSH‐stimulating factor. Cells with the morphologic features characteristic of fetal‐ and adult‐type Leydig cells were observed in the transplants. The seminiferous tubules with spermatocytes, incipient lumina, and significantly larger average diameters showed more advanced development than those in the normal 2‐week‐old testis. By the present morphologic and functional criteria, the kidney subcapsular transplantation technique provides a suitable model for studies of fetal and adult Leydig cell development.
Expression of Notch Pathway Components in Spermatogonia and Sertoli Cells of Neonatal Mice
Authors: DIRAMI GHENIMA , RAVINDRANATH NEELAKANTA , ACHI MARIA V. , DYM MARTIN
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Members of the Notch gene family have been shown to play an important role in the control of cell fate in many developmental systems. We hypothesized that the fate of the male germ line stem cells may also be mediated through the Notch signaling pathway. We therefore sought to determine whether the components of the Notch pathway are expressed in the mouse testis. Western blot analysis revealed the expression of three Notch receptors (Notch 1, Notch 2, and Notch 3), Notch ligands (Jagged 1, Jagged 2, and Delta 1), and presenilin 1 (PS1) in neonatal mouse testis. We then examined their cellular localization by immunohistochemical analysis of cocultures of spermatogonia and Sertoli cells. The 3 Notch receptors were found to be expressed in spermatogonia. Sertoli cells expressed only Notch 2 receptor. Among the Notch ligands, Delta 1 and Jagged 1 were localized exclusively in spermatogonia and Sertoli cells, respectively. PS1 was apparent in both spermatogonia and Sertoli cells. The presence of Notch receptors and Notch ligands in spermatogonia and Sertoli cells indicates that these cells are capable of responding to and eliciting Notch signaling during the process of spermatogenesis.
Expression of Testicular Germ Cell Genes Identified by Differential Display Analysis
Authors: Anway Matthew D. , Li Ying , Ravindranath Neelakanta , Dym Martin , Griswold Michael D.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT:Using differential display reverse transcriptase—polymerase chain reaction (DDRT‐PCR) we identified transcripts encoding for the RNA helicase mDEAH9, Ran binding protein 5 (RanBP5), and 3 novel complementary DNAs designated GC3, GC12, and GC14 in developing testicular germ cells. Sources of RNA for the initial DDRT‐PCR screen were purified mouse type A spermatogonia, adult mouse wild‐type testis, and W/Wvmutant mouse testis. We identified cDNA fragments for mDEAH9, RanBP5, GC3, GC12, and GC14 in testis and type A spermatogonia samples from wild‐type mice, but not in samples from the W/Wvmouse testis. These same transcripts were absent in Northern blots of testis RNA from mice treated with busulfan 30 days prior, but were present in testis RNA from wild‐type mice at 5, 15, 25, and 40 days of age. The mDEAH9 gene was expressed in many tissues, whereas RanBP5 and GC12 genes were expressed predominantly in the testis with much lower expression in other tissues. The expression of GC3 and GC14 were limited to the testis as evidenced by Northern blot and RT‐PCR analyses. The mDEAH9 transcript was not detected in cultured interstitial cells but was found at low levels in cultured immature Sertoli cells, whereas the RanBP5, GC3, GC12, and GC14 transcripts were not detected in either cultured testicular interstitial cells or cultured Sertoli cells. RT‐PCR analyses of isolated spermatogonia, pachytene spermatocytes, and round spermatids revealed that mDEAH9, RanBP5, GC3, GC12, and GC14 genes were expressed in all 3 cellular populations. In situ hybridization analyses of testis samples from 40‐day‐old mice localized expression of mDEAH9, RanBP5, GC3, GC12, and GC14 to the seminiferous tubules. RanBP5 expression appeared to be regulated during the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium, with the highest expression in stages III through VII. Expression of GC14 was greatest in the meiotic germ cell populations.
Spermatogenic Cycle Length and Spermatogenic Efficiency in the Gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus)
Authors: Segatelli Tânia M. , França Luiz R. , Pinheiro Patrica F. F. , Alemida Camila C. D. , Martinez Marcelo , Martinez Francisco E.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus) is a rodent native of the arid regions of Mongolia and China. Because the gerbil can be easily bred in laboratory conditions, this species has been largely used as an experimental model in biomedical research. However, there is still little information concerning the testis structure and function in the gerbil. In this regard, we performed a detailed morpho‐functional analysis of the gerbil testis and estimated the spermatogenic cycle length utilizing 3H‐thymidine as a marker for germ cell progression during their evolution through the spermatogenic process. The stage frequencies of the XII stages characterized according to the acrosome formation and development were (I‐XII) 13.8, 10.1, 8.1, 7.8, 4.0, 11.2, 7.5, 7.1, 5.9, 7.6, 8.1, and 8.9. The mean duration of each seminiferous epithelium cycle was determined to be 10.6 ± 1.0 days and the total duration of spermatogenesis, based on 4.5 cycles, was approximately 47.5 days. The volume density of tubular and interstitial compartments was approximately 92% and 8%, respectively. Based on the volume occupied by seminiferous tubules in the testis and the tubular diameter, about 9 and 18 m of seminiferous tubules were found per testis and per gram of testis, respectively. Twelve primary spermatocytes were formed from each type A1 spermatogonia. The meiotic index was 2.8, indicating that 30% of cell loss occurs during meiosis. The number of Leydig and Sertoli cells per gram of the testis was 28 million and each Sertoli cell was able to support approximately 13 spermatids. The daily sperm production per gram of testis (spermatogenic efficiency) was 33 million. Taken together, these data indicate that, mainly due to the high seminiferous tubule volume density and Sertoli cell support capacity for germ cells, the gerbil presents high spermatogenic efficiency compared with other mammalian species already investigated. The data obtained in the present study might provide the basis for future research involving the reproductive biology in this species.
Erectile Dysfunction in Smokers: A Penile Dynamic and Vascular Study
Authors: Elhanbly Samir , Abdel‐Gaber Soheir , Fathy Hanan , El‐Bayoumi Youssef , Wald Moshe , Niederberger Craig S.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: In this study, we aimed to determine the hemodynamic mechanisms through which cigarette smoking, as an independent risk factor, induces erectile dysfunction (ED). We performed a standard ED evaluation that included history; a physical exam; and serum glucose, testosterone, and prolactin levels. We then excluded ED patients with abnormal androgen profiles and patients with ED risk factors other than smoking. A total of 109 ED patients entered the study, including 71 current smokers and 38 nonsmokers. All patients then underwent extensive evaluation, including nocturnal penile tumescence and rigidity (NPTR) monitoring with Rigiscan, followed by pharmacopenile duplex ultrasonography (PPDU) and redosing pharmacocavernosometry (RPC). Results of the above tests were compared in the smoker and nonsmoker groups. We also performed receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis to determine which diagnostic parameter is most affected by cigarette smoking. The 4 most significant variates served as input features for a logistic regression model, designed to predict smoking. The average age for smokers and nonsmokers was 44.3 and 51.2 years, respectively (P = .02). Eighty‐six percent of smokers had abnormal NPTR testing compared with 55% of nonsmokers (P = .02). The average peak systolic velocity (PSV) was 26.8 and 31.2 cm/s for smokers and nonsmokers, respectively, and this difference was not found to be statistically significant (P = .19) in this study. On performing RPC, an abnormal maintenance flow (MF) of >5 mL/min was detected in 89% of smokers and in 47% of nonsmokers, and the difference was significant (P < .01). With the use of smoking as the outcome, the ROC area of different diagnostic parameters was as follows: 0.79 for penile base rigidity, 0.58 for PSV, and 0.77 for MF. A logistic regression model that used the 4 most significant variates as input features yielded a ROC of 0.857. The results of NPTR testing in our smoker and nonsmoker groups indicated that ED in smokers is mainly of organic etiology. On the basis of the PPDU findings and the higher incidence of abnormal MF in the smoker group and its relatively high ROC value, we concluded that dysfunction of penile veno‐occlusive mechanisms plays a substantial role in the development of ED in smokers.
Fracture Repair in the Distal Radius in Postmenopausal Women: A Follow-Up 2 Years Postfracture Using HRpQCT
Authors: de Jong Joost JA , Heyer Frans L , Arts Jacobus JC , Poeze Martijn , Keszei András P , Willems Paul C , van Rietbergen Bert , Geusens Piet P , van den Bergh Joop PW
Published: December 2015

Fracture healing is characterized by an intense increase in modeling and remodeling of bone, which allows removal of the cast after a stable distal radius fracture within 3 to 5 weeks. However, at that time, bone strength has not recovered yet. We studied the changes in bone mineral density (BMD), microarchitecture, and bone stiffness after a distal radius fracture during a 2-year follow-up in comparison to the contralateral side and the association between the 2-year stiffness and baseline BMD, microarchitecture, and early changes in these parameters. The fractured side of 14 postmenopausal women (mean age 64 ± 8 years) with a conservatively treated distal radius fracture was scanned by high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HRpQCT) at 1 to 2, 3 to 4, 6 to 8, and 12 weeks and 2 years postfracture. The same region contralaterally was scanned as well at the 2-year visit. BMD, microarchitecture, and stiffness parameters were determined and the fracture side was compared with the contralateral side using a linear mixed-effect model. Spearman's correlation was used to correlate the 2-year bone stiffness with baseline BMD, microarchitecture, and early 3-month changes in these parameters. Two years postfracture, cortical and trabecular thickness and torsional and bending stiffness were significantly higher at the fractured side compared with the nonfractured side (21%, 55%, 31%, and 29%, respectively, p < 0.05), whereas BMD was similar. Two-year torsional and bending stiffness correlated significantly with baseline BMD and cortical perimeter (|rho| ≥ 0.63, p < 0.016) but not with early changes in bone parameters. Using HRpQCT, this study illustrates that fracture healing is not completed by the time the cast is removed. We showed that from 6 weeks to 2 years postfracture, large changes occur in BMD, microarchitecture, and biomechanical parameters at the fractured side, which were fully recovered after 2 years in comparison to the nonfractured contralateral side. Interestingly, higher 2-year torsional and bending stiffness were associated with lower BMD and higher cortical perimeter at baseline. © 2015 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Ownership Structure, Fraud, and Corporate Governance
Authors: Goldberg Stephen R. , Danko Dori , Kessler Lara L.
Published: December 2015

A dispersed ownership system has widely disseminated shares and no dominant shareholder or group of shareholders. This is more commonly the share ownership pattern in the United States and the United Kingdom. A concentrated ownership system is more common in continental Europe. In this system one shareholder, family, or group of shareholders has majority or dominant control of companies. Different types of fraud are incentivized under each system. Dispersed ownership systems encourage earnings management, so executives benefit from short‐term performance measures. Concentrated control encourages appropriation of private benefits of control. Corporate governance is designed to protect shareholders' interests. Corporate ownerships systems have implications on the efficacy of governance techniques. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Implicit solvent coarse‐grained model of polyamidoamine dendrimers: Role of generation and pH
Authors: Chong Leebyn , Aydin Fikret , Dutt Meenakshi
Published: December 2015

Highly branched polymers such as polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimers are promising macromolecules in the realm of nanobiotechnology due to their high surface coverage of tunable functional groups. Modeling efforts of PAMAM can provide structural and morphological properties, but the inclusion of solvents and the exponential growth of atoms with generations make atomistic simulations computationally expensive. We apply an implicit solvent coarse‐grained model, called the Dry Martini force field, to PAMAM dendrimers. The reduced number of particles and the absence of a solvent allow the capture of longer spatiotemporal scales. This study characterizes PAMAM dendrimers of generations one through seven in acidic, neutral, and basic pH environments. Comparison with existing literature, both experimental and theoretical, is done using measurements of the radius of gyration, moment of inertia, radial distributions, and scaling exponents. Additionally, ion coordination distributions are studied to provide insight into the effects of interior and exterior protonation on counter ions. This model serves as a starting point for future designs of larger functionalized dendrimers. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of CYP3A Modulators on the Pharmacokinetics of Naloxegol
Authors: Bui Khanh , Zhou Diansong , Sostek Mark , She Fahua , Al‐Huniti Nidal
Published: December 2015

Naloxegol, a peripherally acting μ‐opioid receptor antagonist, was recently approved in the United States for the treatment of opioid‐induced constipation. This study evaluated the effects of CYP3A inhibition and induction on the pharmacokinetics, safety, and tolerability of naloxegol. Separate open‐label, nonrandomized, fixed‐sequence, 3‐period, 3‐treatment, crossover studies of naloxegol (25 mg by mouth [PO]) in the absence or presence of the inhibitors ketoconazole (400 mg PO) and diltiazem extended release (240 mg PO), or the inducer rifampin (600 mg PO) were conducted in healthy volunteers. Area under the curve (AUC∞) for naloxegol was increased with coadministration of either ketoconazole (12.9‐fold) or diltiazem (3.4‐fold) and decreased by 89% with coadministration of rifampin compared with AUC∞ for naloxegol alone. Naloxegol was generally safe and well tolerated when given alone or coadministered with the respective CYP3A modulators; 1 subject discontinued because of elevations in liver enzymes attributed to rifampin. The exposure of naloxegol was affected substantially by ketoconazole, diltiazem, and rifampin, suggesting that it is a sensitive in vivo substrate of CYP3A4.
Intraverbal naming and equivalence class formation in children
Authors: Carp Charlotte L. , Petursdottir Anna Ingeborg
Published: December 2015

Six typically developing children between 5 and 7 years of age underwent match‐to‐sample training to establish three‐member equivalence classes after first acquiring a unique name for each stimulus. Horne and Lowe's (1996) naming hypothesis predicts that under those circumstances, match‐to‐sample training contingencies may establish intraverbal relations between the unique names, which in turn guide correct responses on a subsequent test for stimulus equivalence. Following training of baseline relations (AB and AC), participants received an equivalence test followed by an intraverbal test. Performance on the two tests co‐varied, such that three participants passed both tests, and three participants failed repeated administrations of both tests, including a modified version of the equivalence test designed to promote intraverbal responding. The participants who failed the equivalence test, however, did so primarily due to poor performance in transitivity trials, but performed accurately in symmetry trials. After training of a third relation (BC), all three participants performed accurately in a symmetry test for the remaining untrained relations (BA, CA, and CB); two of them in the absence of relevant intraverbal repertoires.
Empirical evidence about inconsistency among studies in a pair‐wise meta‐analysis
Authors: Rhodes Kirsty M. , Turner Rebecca M. , Higgins Julian P. T.
Published: December 2015

This paper investigates how inconsistency (as measured by the I2 statistic) among studies in a meta‐analysis may differ, according to the type of outcome data and effect measure. We used hierarchical models to analyse data from 3873 binary, 5132 continuous and 880 mixed outcome meta‐analyses within the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Predictive distributions for inconsistency expected in future meta‐analyses were obtained, which can inform priors for between‐study variance. Inconsistency estimates were highest on average for binary outcome meta‐analyses of risk differences and continuous outcome meta‐analyses. For a planned binary outcome meta‐analysis in a general research setting, the predictive distribution for inconsistency among log odds ratios had median 22% and 95% CI: 12% to 39%. For a continuous outcome meta‐analysis, the predictive distribution for inconsistency among standardized mean differences had median 40% and 95% CI: 15% to 73%. Levels of inconsistency were similar for binary data measured by log odds ratios and log relative risks. Fitted distributions for inconsistency expected in continuous outcome meta‐analyses using mean differences were almost identical to those using standardized mean differences. The empirical evidence on inconsistency gives guidance on which outcome measures are most likely to be consistent in particular circumstances and facilitates Bayesian meta‐analysis with an informative prior for heterogeneity. © 2015 The Authors. Research Synthesis Methods published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. © 2015 The Authors. Research Synthesis Methods published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Triple helical structure of acid‐soluble collagen derived from Nile tilapia skin as affected by extraction temperature
Authors: Thuanthong Mantaka , Sirinupong Nualpun , Youravong Wirote
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND

Fish skin has become a new source of collagen. It is usually extracted at low temperature. Increasing the extraction temperature can increase the collagen yield. However, high temperature might cause degradation of the triple helical structure of collagen, which is related to its functional biomaterial. This work thus aimed to investigate the effect of extraction temperature on the extraction efficiency and characteristics of acid‐soluble collagen (ASC), particularly its triple helical structure.

RESULTS

ASC was extracted at 5 ± 1, 15 ± 1 and 25 ± 1 °C for 0–24 h with 0.3 or 0.5 mol L−1 acetic acid. The results showed that extraction with 0.5 mol L−1 acetic acid gave a higher extraction efficiency than that in 0.3 mol L−1 acetic acid (P < 0.5). Extraction at 25 ± 1 °C for 5 h with 0.5 mol L−1 acetic acid gave a higher extraction efficiency (73.73 ± 1.28%), which is higher than that of 5 ± 1 °C by about 1.7‐fold. All ASC obtained were identified as type I collagen and showed similar physicochemical properties.

CONCLUSION

The results showed that extraction temperature strongly affected extraction efficiency. Extraction at 25 °C did not affect the triple helical structure, which was confirmed by the results of Fourier transform infrared, circular dichroism spectrum and collagen self‐assembly. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Quality evaluation of the leaves of Magnolia officinalis var. biloba using high‐performance liquid chromatography fingerprint analysis of phenolic compounds
Authors: Yi Jun , Wu Jian‐Guo , Wu Jin‐Yu , Wu Yan‐Bin
Published: December 2015

The high‐performance liquid chromatography fingerprint method is a simple and reliable technique to evaluate the quality of leaves of Magnolia officinalis Rehd.et Wils. var. biloba Rehd.et Wils. We used the following bioactive phenolic constituents as reference compounds: rutin, afzelin, hyperoside, isoquercitrin, quercetin‐3‐O‐α‐l‐rhamnoside, honokiol and magnolol. The conditions of an Agilent 1200 HPLC were: YMC‐Pack‐ODS‐AQ column (250 × 4.6 mm id S‐5 μm, 12 nm), mobile phase acetonitrile and 0.2% phosphoric acid in a gradient elute mode, flow rate 1.0 mL/min, detection wavelength 280 nm and column temperature 30°C. The analytical method was validated in terms of linearity, stability, repeatability, precision and recovery tests. While performing fingerprint analysis, we identified 11 peaks as characteristic peaks and assessed the similarities of 17 samples collected from different geological regions of China. The peak areas were used to evaluate the variation in the chemical composition of the tested samples. For this purpose, we performed hierarchical cluster analysis of the peak areas. Our results indicate that simultaneous determination of multiple ingredients could be done through chromatographic fingerprint analysis. Therefore, this high‐performance liquid chromatography fingerprint method was readily utilized to evaluate the quality of leaves of M. officinalis var.biloba, which are used in several traditional herbal preparations.
Monosaccharide composition analysis of immunomodulatory polysaccharides by on‐line hollow fiber microextraction with high‐performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Wang Nani , Wang Xuping , Huang Xiaowen , Mao Zhujun , Zhang Yang , Yu Yong , Shou Dan
Published: December 2015

The monosaccharide compositions of functional polysaccharides are essential for structure elucidation and biological activity determination. A sensitive method based on on‐line hollow‐fiber liquid‐phase microextraction with high‐performance liquid chromatography has been established for the analysis of ten monosaccharide compositions (two uronic acids, two amino sugars and six neutral sugars) of the immunomodulatory polysaccharides. After derivatization, the sample was injected into the lumen of a hollow fiber immersed in butyl ether and separated by liquid chromatography. Under optimized conditions, the calibration curves were linear (r ≥ 0.9996) in the range of 10–2000 μmol L−1. The limits of detection were in the range of 0.04–1.58 μmol L−1, and the recoveries were in the range of 92.1–99.6%, which shows that the method is applicable to the analysis of the monosaccharide composition of various polysaccharides.
Historical Land‐use and Vegetation Change in Northern Kwazulu‐Natal, South Africa
Authors: Russell Jennifer M. , Ward David
Published: December 2015

The role of anthropogenic activity is increasingly recognized as an agent of environmental change. Photographs, taken more than 130 years ago in KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa, show a very different landscape to that viewed today. In attempting to understand some of the dynamics behind the changes in the landscape, we explored the history of land‐use in communal rangelands in KwaZulu‐Natal from the arrival of Iron Age man through to modern practices. Communal farming is frequently cited as a major cause of environmental degradation. Traditional lifestyles have been eroded by social, political and economic changes since the arrival of European explorers and settlers in the early 1800s. This may have contributed to encroachment by woody plants into the open savannas and grasslands of KwaZulu‐Natal in recent times because of increased grazing pressure and, perhaps reduced fires. Furthermore, there is decreasing dependence on wood for everyday needs due to the increased availability of electricity. Interviews with a number of community members indicate that they have noted a change in climate and in vegetation structure. Their observations have been confirmed by climate data and historic photographs. Environmental planners need to view change in a holistic manner, taking cognisance not only of the physical changes but also of the history of land‐use and human needs and to give credence to community perceptions. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enabling arbitrary wavelength frequency combs on chip
Authors: Soltani Mohammad , Matsko Andrey , Maleki Lute
Published: December 2015

A necessary condition for generation of bright soliton Kerr frequency combs in microresonators is to achieve anomalous group velocity dispersion (GVD) for the resonator modes. This condition is hard to implement in the visible as well as ultraviolet since the majority of optical materials are characterized with large normal GVD in these wavelength regions. We overcome this challenge by borrowing ideas from strongly dispersive coupled systems in solid state physics and optics. We show that photonic compound ring resonators can possess large anomalous GVD at any desirable wavelength, even if each individual resonator is characterized with normal GVD. Based on this concept, we design a mode‐locked frequency comb with thin‐film silicon nitride compound ring resonators in the vicinity of the rubidium D1 line (794.6 nm) and propose to use this optical comb as a flywheel for chip‐scale optical clocks.

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Back‐up procedures following complicated gastric pull‐up procedure for esophageal reconstruction: Salvage with intestinal flaps
Authors: Sacak Bulent , Orfaniotis Georgios , Nicoli Fabio , Liu En‐Wei , Ciudad Pedro , Chen Shih‐Heng , Chen Hung‐Chi
Published: December 2015

Background

Gastric pull‐up (GPU) is the most common procedure for restoring the continuity of the alimentary tract. Yet, complications because of anastomotic problems are reported to be as high as 25% after this procedure. Managing the neck with anastomotic leakage or stricture following failed GPU and/or radiotherapy is formidable. We report our method, basic algorithm and results with the complicated GPU procedure management with intestinal transfers .

Patients and methods

Nineteen cases referred to our department with complicated esophageal reconstruction following GPU procedure were included in this report. Of the19 patients, 18 had undergone GPU procedure for reconstruction after cancer resection (mean age 55 years) and one for idiopathic esophagitis (mean age 45years). Fifteen patients presented with severe stricture formation and 4 patients with leakage from the anastomotic site. Average time between the GPU and salvage procedures was 7.3 months for patients with stricture formation and 15.5 days for patients with leakage. Pedicled colon interposition (n = 8) was used when the upper end of the gastric tube was located below the sternoclavicular junction. A free jejunal flap (n = 11) was utilized when defects were located at the neck (above the sternoclavicular junction).

Results

In all patients salvage procedures with intestinal flap transfer were successful with complete flap survival. Post‐operative period was uneventful except of two patients with pedicled colon interposition who presented minor leakage post‐operatively (10.5%). This was treated with conservative means, leading to spontaneous healing. The average follow‐up for the patients with tumor resection was 11.8 months (range: 6 to 30) after the salvage procedure. All patients resumed smooth oral intake eventually. There were 16 patients who could feed with solid diet, whereas three patients were able to tolerate only soft diet.

Conclusion

Intestinal tissues can be safely and successfully transferred as salvage procedures, with meticulous technique, careful patient selection and individual flap design. While gastric pull‐up remains a good procedure for esophageal reconstruction, the methods described in this report are useful as back‐up armaments in complicated cases. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 36:567–572, 2016.
Ingestion of frying fat leads to activation of the endoplasmic reticulum stress‐induced unfolded protein response in the duodenal mucosa of pigs
Authors: Ringseis Robert , Kynast Anna Marie , Couturier Aline , Most Erika , Eder Klaus
Published: December 2015

Scope

Ingestion of oxidized fats (OF) causes activation of stress signaling pathways such as nuclear factor‐erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) in the intestine. Activation of this pathway is mediated by ER stress‐induced unfolded protein response (UPR). Herein, we hypothesized that ingestion of OF causes ER stress‐induced UPR in duodenal mucosa of pigs.

Methods and results

Six‐wk‐old cross‐bred pigs received either a control diet with fresh fat or a diet with OF for 29 days. Pigs fed OF exhibited increased phosphorylation of the ER stress downstream target eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α and induction of several genes involved in ER stress‐induced UPR and Nrf2 target genes in duodenal mucosa. No signs of an impaired intestinal barrier function or a systemic inflammatory response could be found in pigs fed OF.

Conclusion

Activation of ER stress‐induced UPR by OF in the duodenal mucosa in pigs might be interpreted as a cytoprotective response to stress factors associated with ingestion of OF. Given the similarities between pigs and humans with respect to digestive physiology, it is possible that regular ingestion of fried foods containing OF activates the ER stress‐induced UPR also in the intestinal mucosa of humans.
Selection of sand models and identification of parameters using an enhanced genetic algorithm
Authors: Jin Yin‐Fu , Yin Zhen‐Yu , Shen Shui‐Long , Hicher Pierre‐Yves
Published: December 2015

Numerous constitutive models of granular soils have been developed during the last few decades. As a consequence, how to select an appropriate model with the necessary features based on conventional tests and with an easy way of identifying parameters for geotechnical applications has become a major issue. This paper aims to discuss the selection of sand models and parameters identification by using genetic algorithm. A real‐coded genetic algorithm is enhanced for the optimization with high efficiency. Models with gradually varying features (elastic‐perfectly plastic modelling, nonlinear stress–strain hardening, critical state concept and two‐surface concept) are selected from numerous sand models as examples for optimization. Conventional triaxial tests on Hostun sand are selected as the objectives in the optimization. Four key points are then discussed in turn: (i) which features are necessary to be accounted for in constitutive modelling of sand; (ii) which type of tests (drained and/or undrained) should be selected for an optimal identification of parameters; (iii) what is the minimum number of tests that should be selected for parameter identification; and (iv) what is the suitable and least strain level of objective tests to obtain reliable and reasonable parameters. Finally, a useful guide, based on all comparisons, is provided at the end of the discussion. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Trends in surgical management and pre‐operative urodynamics in female medicare beneficiaries with mixed incontinence
Authors: Chughtai Bilal , Hauser Nicholas , Anger Jennifer , Asfaw Tirsit , Laor Leanna , Mao Jialin , Lee Richard , Te Alexis , Kaplan Steven , Sedrakyan Art
Published: December 2015

Objective

We sought to examine the surgical trends and utilization of treatment for mixed urinary incontinence among female Medicare beneficiaries.

Methods

Data was obtained from a 5% national random sample of outpatient and carrier claims from 2000 to 2011. Included were female patients 65 and older, diagnosed with mixed urinary incontinence, who underwent surgical treatment identified by Current Procedural Terminology, Fourth Edition (CPT‐4) codes. Urodynamics (UDS) before initial and secondary procedure were also identified using CPT‐4 codes. Procedural trends and utilization of UDS were analyzed.

Results

Utilization of UDS increased during the study period, from 38.4% to 74.0% prior to initial surgical intervention, and from 28.6% to 62.5% preceding re‐intervention. Sling surgery (63.0%) and injectable bulking agents (28.0%) were the most common surgical treatments adopted, followed by sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) (4.8%) and Burch (4.0%) procedures. Re‐intervention was performed in 4.0% of patients initially treated with sling procedures and 21.3% of patients treated with bulking agents, the majority of whom (51.7% and 76.3%, respectively) underwent injection of a bulking agent. Risk of re‐intervention was not different among those who did or did not receive urodynamic tests prior to the initial procedure (8.5% vs. 9.3%)

Conclusions

Sling and bulk agents are the most common treatment for MUI. Preoperative urodynamic testing was not related to risk of re‐intervention following surgery for mixed urinary incontinence in this cohort. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:422–425, 2017. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prematurity, Birth Weight, and Socioeconomic Status Are Linked to Atypical Diurnal Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Adrenal Axis Activity in Young Adults
Authors: Winchester Suzy Barcelos , Sullivan Mary C. , Roberts Mary B. , Granger Douglas A.
Published: December 2015

In a prospective, case‐controlled longitudinal design, 180 preterm and fullterm infants who had been enrolled at birth participated in a comprehensive assessment battery at age 23. Of these, 149 young adults, 34 formerly full‐term and 115 formerly preterm (22 healthy preterm, 48 with medical complications, 21 with neurological complications, and 24 small for gestational age) donated five saliva samples from a single day that were assayed for cortisol to assess diurnal variation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. Analyses were conducted to determine whether prematurity category, birth weight, and socioeconomic status were associated with differences in HPA axis function. Pre‐ and perinatal circumstances associated with prematurity influenced the activity of this environmentally sensitive physiological system. Results are consistent with the theory of Developmental Origins of Health and Disease and highlight a possible mechanism for the link between prematurity and health disparities later in life. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Kinetic study of low‐temperature imidization of poly(amic acid)s and preparation of colorless, transparent polyimide films
Authors: Yu Hwan‐Chul , Jung Jae‐Woo , Choi Ju‐Young , Chung Chan‐Moon
Published: December 2015

Conventional synthesis of polyimides includes high‐temperature (160–350 °C) imidization of poly(amic acid)s. In the present work, imidization has been carried out at much lower temperatures (40–160 °C). 1,2,4,5,‐cyclohexanetetracarboxylic dianhydride (HPMDA) or pyromellitic dianhydride (PMDA) was polymerized with an aromatic diamine, 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylmethane (DDPM), to give poly(amic acid)s, which were then imidized chemically. Imidization was more than 90% complete even at the very low imidization temperature of 40 °C. It was found that the imidization occurs in two steps: an initial rapid cyclization and a subsequent slower cyclization. The activation energy for the rapid process was determined to be 4.3 kJ/mol, and that of the slower process, 4.8 kJ/mol. As the imidization temperature decreases, the transmittance of the resulting polyimides tends to gradually increase, the cutoff wavelength decreases and the color becomes pale. A partially aliphatic polyimide based on HPMDA and DDPM prepared at 40 °C yielded thin films that were highly transparent and colorless, and had good flexibility, solubility and thermal stability. The polyimide films prepared in this study may be good candidates for flexible, transparent plastic substrates in the display industry. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 1593–1602
Pulmonary function and fitness years after treatment for hypersensitivity pneumonitis during childhood
Authors: Sisman Yagmur , Buchvald Frederik , Blyme Anne Katrine , Mortensen Jann , Nielsen Kim Gjerum
Published: December 2015

Background

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) is an immune‐mediated diffuse lung disease. Significant improvement in lung function and diffusing capacity after treatment was previously demonstrated, while long‐term data focusing specifically on peripheral airway impairment and peak oxygen uptake (fitness) are lacking. Hence, the aim of this study was to conduct a comprehensive study to determine the stability of pulmonary function and fitness in patients previously diagnosed with HP.

Methods

We performed a cross‐sectional follow‐up study with inclusion of longitudinal data if available in patients previously diagnosed with biopsy and high‐resolution computed tomography‐verified HP during childhood. We performed multiple breath wash‐out (LCI2.5), spirometry (FEV1), bronchiodilator responsiveness test, diffusing capacity (DLCO and DLCO/VA), body‐plethysmography (TLC), and peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak). St. George Respiratory Questionnaire was used as a measure of respiratory quality of life.

Results

Twenty two patients were assessed. LCI2.5 was abnormal in 47.4% compared to abnormal FEV1 in only 9.1% and without significant bronchiodilator responsiveness. DLCO and TLC were abnormal in 40.9 and 13.6%, respectively, while DLCO/VA was within normal range. Only 11.1% demonstrated abnormal VO2peak. All longitudinally assessed outcomes remained unchanged between end of treatment and time of follow up.

Conclusions

A large proportion of patients previously diagnosed with HP had abnormal LCI2.5 in contrast to normal spirometry. Spirometric outcomes, TLC, and diffusing capacity were persistently slightly reduced, but stable, and VO2peak was excellent at time of follow‐up. Long‐term prognosis in children with HP appears favorable although persistent peripheral airway involvement of unknown clinical significance was demonstrated in almost half of the patients. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2016;51:830–837. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparative mass spectrometric and immunoassay‐based proteome analysis in serum of Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients
Authors: Oonk Stijn , Spitali Pietro , Hiller Monika , Switzar Linda , Dalebout Hans , Calissano Mattia , Lochmüller Hanns , Aartsma‐Rus Annemieke , Hoen Peter A. C.’t , van der Burgt Yuri E. M.
Published: December 2015

Purpose

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a severe and fatal neuromuscular disease. With the current developments on novel therapeutic strategies for DMD, the need to carefully monitor disease progression or regression upon treatment using molecular markers has become urgent.

Experimental design

2D LC protein fractionation was performed on patient serum samples, followed by LC‐MS/MS‐based identifications with label‐free quantifications.

Results

Protein signatures were compared between patients and healthy (child and adult) controls and between ambulant and nonambulant patients. Various myofibrillar proteins demonstrated differences between DMD patients and controls, likely due to leakiness and breakdown of muscle fibers. Previously reported biomarkers, such as muscle‐derived titin, myosin, and carbonic anhydrase I (CA1), were verified. MS‐based results were compared with ELISA for vitamin D binding protein (GC), fibulin‐1 (FBLN1), gelsolin (GSN), and carbonic anhydrase 1 (CA1).

Conclusions and clinical relevance

The combined results of MS‐ and ELISA‐based quantifications indicated more studies are needed to validate this serum protein signature for DMD patients. With these data promising candidate biomarkers have been identified for a rare genetic disease using serum proteome analysis.