bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feedback regulation of IFN‐α/β signaling by Axl receptor tyrosine kinase modulates HBV immunity
Authors: Huang Miao‐Tzu , Liu Wei‐Liang , Lu Chun‐Wei , Huang Jian‐Jhih , Chuang Hsiao‐Li , Huang Yen‐Te , Horng Jau‐Haw , Liu Peng , Han Dai‐Shu , Chiang Bor‐Luen , Shih Chiaho , Chen Pei‐Jer , Chen Ding‐Shinn
Published: March 2015

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is known to cause age‐dependent infection outcomes wherein most infections during young age result in chronicity. The mechanism underlying the differential outcome remains elusive. By using hydrodynamic injection of the replication‐competent pAAV‐HBV, we established a mouse model in which HBV persistence was generated in 4–5 w/o C57BL/6 young mice, but not in adult mice over 10 w/o. HBV‐tolerant young mice expressed higher interferon (IFN)‐α/β levels in hepatocytes and intrahepatic plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs) than adult mice after pAAV‐HBV injection. Excessive IFN‐α/β expression in young mice was associated with induction of the Axl regulatory pathway and expansion of intrahepatic Treg cells. In line with these findings, augmented IFN‐β expression increased Axl expression in the liver and HBV persistence in adult mice, whereas IFN‐α/β signaling blockage decreased Axl expression and HBV persistence in young mice. Accordingly, Axl overexpression decreased HBV clearance of adult mice whereas Axl silencing enhanced HBV clearance of young mice. In vitro, IFN‐β priming of pDCs and Axl‐overexpressing macrophages enhanced Treg‐cell differentiation. These findings suggest that age‐dependent HBV chronicity is attributed to IFN‐β‐Axl immune regulation, which is selectively induced in young mice by excessive IFN‐α/β production at early stage of HBV infection.
Ferrocenyl–Bipyridinium Cations and Their Platinum Complexes Related to Viologens – Preparation, Redox Properties, and Crystal Structures
Authors: Mochida Tomoyuki , Funasako Yusuke , Nezu Yukiko , Hagiwara Koji , Horikoshi Ryo
Published: March 2015

N‐R1‐N′‐R2‐4,4′‐Bipyridinium and N‐R1‐4,4′‐bipyridinium salts containing ferrocenyl substituents were prepared as donor–acceptor compounds (R1 = ferrocenyl, ferrocenylphenyl; R2 = ferrocenyl, ferrocenylphenyl, phenyl, methyl). Platinum(II)‐bridged diferrocene compounds were prepared by using the N‐R1‐4,4′‐bipyridinium ligands. These compounds display multistage redox properties. The redox potentials of the ferrocenyl and bipyridinium moieties in these compounds are independently affected by molecular modifications, which indicates that conjugation between the donor and acceptor moieties is less effective. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analyses revealed large twist angles between the two moieties in the solid state. The compounds exhibit broad charge‐transfer absorption bands in the range 450–800 nm. No electronic communication was observed between the terminal ferrocenes in the diferrocene complexes.
Synthesis of Polysubstituted Pyrroles from Activated Alkynes and N‐Propargylamines through Base‐Catalyzed Cascade Reaction
Authors: Weng Jianquan , Chen Yong , Yue Binjie , Xu Meng , Jin Hongwei
Published: March 2015

A novel K3PO4‐catalyzed synthesis of polysubstituted pyrroles by a Michael addition/alkyne carbocyclization of activated alkynes and N‐propargylamines has been developed. This transition‐metal‐free cascade process represents an environmental friendly and efficient way to construct polysubstituted pyrroles in good yields. Catalyzed by CsF, a Michael addition/aza‐Claisen rearrangement/cyclization sequential process has been achieved to selectively synthesize pyrroles in moderate yields.
Square‐Wave Voltammetry as Analytical Tool for Real‐Time Study of Controlled Naproxen Releasing from Cellulose Derivative Materials
Authors: Fonseca Wilson T. , Santos Rodrigo F. , Alves Janainne N. , Ribeiro Sabrina D. , Takeuchi Regina M. , Santos André L. , Assunção Rosana M. N. , Filho Guimes R. , Muñoz Rodrigo A. A.
Published: March 2015

This work reports the successful use of square‐wave voltammetry (SWV) to directly assess the controlled releasing profile of naproxen from lab‐made cellulose derivative materials (membranes and microparticles) in phosphate buffer (pH 7.4) at 36 °C. Particular advantage of SWV refers to the direct real‐time monitoring of released drug from cellulose derivative microparticles, which cannot be easily assessed by UV‐spectrophotometry. Moreover, SWV was able to detect modifications in the naproxen releasing profile due to morphology and processing of membranes and microparticles. The possible miniaturization and versatility of SWV suggest the promising application on the study of several drug delivery systems, including in vivo studies.
Mutation rate analysis at 19 autosomal microsatellites
Authors: Qian Xiao‐Qin , Yin Cai‐Yong , Ji Qiang , Li Kai , Fan Han‐Ting , Yu Yan‐Fang , Bu Fan‐Li , Hu Ling‐Li , Wang Jian‐Wen , Mu Hao‐Fang , Haigh Steven , Chen Feng
Published: March 2015

Previous studies have demonstrated that a large sample size is needed to reliably estimate population‐ and locus‐specific microsatellite mutation rates. Therefore, we conducted a long‐term collaboration study and performed a comprehensive analysis on the mutation characteristics of 19 autosomal short tandem repeat (STR) loci. The STR loci located on 15 of 22 autosomal chromosomes were analyzed in a total of 21 106 samples (11 468 parent–child meioses) in a Chinese population. This provided 217 892 allele transfers at 19 STR loci. An overall mutation rate of 1.20 × 10−3 (95% CI, 1.06–1.36 × 10−3) was observed in the populations across 18 of 19 STR loci, except for the TH01 locus with no mutation found. Most STR mutations (97.7%) were single‐step mutations, and only a few mutations (2.30%) comprised two and multiple steps. Interestingly, approximately 93% of mutation events occur in the male germline. The mutation ratios increased with the paternal age at child birth (r = 0.99, p<0.05), but not maternal age. Last, with the combination analysis of the data from the southern Chinese population, we drew a picture of 19 STR mutations in China. In conclusion, the data from this study will provide useful information in parentage testing, kinship analysis, and population genetics.
Potential of prodendronic polyamines with modulated segmental charge density as novel coating for fast and efficient analysis of peptides and basic proteins by CE and CE‐MS
Authors: Acunha Tanize , Ibáñez Clara , Pascual Reguera María Isabel , Sarò Mariagiovanna , Navarro Rodrigo , Alfonso Redondo Juan , Reinecke Helmut , Gallardo Alberto , Simó Carolina , Cifuentes Alejandro
Published: March 2015

In this work, the suitability of a new polymer family has been investigated as capillary coatings for the analysis of peptides and basic proteins by CE. This polymer family has been designed to minimize or completely prevent protein–capillary wall interactions and to modify the EOF. These coating materials are linear polymeric chains bearing as side cationizable moiety a dentronic triamine derived from N,N,N’,N’‐tetraethyldiethylenetriamine (TEDETA), which is linked to the backbone through a spacer (unit labeled as TEDETAMA). Four different polymers have been prepared and evaluated: a homopolymer which comprised only of those cationizable repetitive units of TEDETAMA, and three copolymers that randomly incorporate TEDETAMA together with neutral hydrosoluble units of N‐(2‐hydroxypropyl) methacrylamide (HPMA) at different molar percentages (25:75, 50:50 and 75:25). It has been demonstrated that the composition of the copolymers influences the EOF and therefore the separation of the investigated biopolymers. Among the novel polymers studied, poly‐(TEDETAMA‐co‐HPMA) 50:50 copolymer was successfully applied as coating material of the inner capillary surface in CE‐UV and CE‐MS, providing EOF reversing together with fast and efficient baseline separation of peptides and basic proteins. Finally, the feasibility of the polymer‐coated capillary was shown through the analysis of lysozyme in a cheese sample.
Electrochemical paper‐based microfluidic devices
Authors: Adkins Jaclyn , Boehle Katherine , Henry Charles
Published: March 2015

Self‐pumping porous microfluidic devices have attracted significant interest because of their low cost and broad applicability in point‐of‐care and low resource settings. One limitation of many of the devices is sensitivity and selectivity for detection. Electrochemistry can provide a sensitive, selective detection method while still using low cost, portable instrumentation as typified by handheld glucometers. Here, the development of electrochemical paper‐based analytical devices (ePADs) is reviewed. Given the importance of electrode geometry and composition, fabrication methods are reviewed first. This is followed by a review of example applications demonstrated for ePADs. Finally, major accomplishments and future directions are summarized.
Experimental analysis on the impact force of viscous debris flow
Authors: Cui Peng , Zeng Chao , Lei Yu
Published: March 2015

A miniaturized flume experiment was carried out to measure impact forces of viscous debris flow. The flow depth (7.2–11.2 cm), velocity (2.4–5.2 m/s) and impact force were recorded during the experiment. The impact process of debris flow can be divided into three phases by analyzing the variation of impact signals and flow regime. The three phases are the sudden strong impact of the debris flow head, continuous dynamic pressure of the body and slight static pressure of the tail. The variation of impact process is consistent with the change in the flow regime. The head has strong–rapid impact pressure, which is shown as a turbulent‐type flow; the body approximates to steady laminar flow. Accordingly, the process of debris flows hitting structures was simplified to a triangle shape, ignoring the pressure of the tail. In order to study the distribution of the debris flow impact force at different depths and variation of the impact process over time, the impact signals of slurry and coarse particles were separated from the original signals using wavelet analysis. The slurry's dynamic pressure signal appears to be a smooth curve, and the peak pressure is 12–34 kPa when the debris flow head hits the sensors, which is about 1.54 ± 0.36 times the continuous dynamic pressure of the debris flow body. The limit of application of the empirical parameter α in the hydraulic formula was also noted. We introduced the power function relationship of α and the Froude number of debris flows, and proposed a universal model for calculating dynamic pressure. The impact pressure of large particles has the characteristic of randomness. The mean frequency of large particles impacting the sensor is 210 ± 50–287 ± 29 times per second, and it is 336 ± 114–490 ± 69 times per second for the debris flow head, which is greater than that in the debris flow body. Peak impact pressure of particles at different flow depths is 40–160 kPa, which is 3.2 ± 1.5 times the impact pressure of the slurry at the bottom of the flow, 3.1 ± 0.9 times the flow in the middle, and 3.3 ± 0.9 times the flow at the surface. The differences in impact frequency indicate that most of the large particles concentrate in the debris flow head, and the number of particles in the debris flow head increases with height. This research supports the study of solid–liquid two phase flow mechanisms, and helps engineering design and risk assessment in debris flow prone areas. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ecotoxicity of multiwalled carbon nanotubes: Standardization of the dispersion methods and concentration measurements
Authors: Cerrillo Cristina , Barandika Gotzone , Igartua Amaya , Areitioaurtena Olatz , Marcaide Arrate , Mendoza Gemma
Published: March 2015

There are currently a variety of applications for multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), but considerable concerns exist regarding their release into the environment. Their potential accumulation by aquatic organisms could lead to transfer throughout food chains. Considering the divergences in experimental data published on the ecotoxicity of carbon nanotubes, further research is required. The dispersion of MWCNTs in aqueous culturing media of organisms as well as the determination of concentrations are relevant aspects to obtain accurate ecotoxicity results. Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy is one of the most reported techniques to analyze concentration quickly and economically, but the methodologies to prepare dispersions and selecting the wavelengths for ultraviolet-visible measurements have not yet been clearly defined. The present study demonstrates that dispersion procedures influence absorbance, and an approach to determine the most appropriate measurement wavelength is proposed. Ecotoxicity tests with MWCNTs were performed on Vibrio fischeri bacteria, and divergences in the results were observed with respect to those previously reported. The present study contributes to the attempt to overcome the lack of standardization in the environmental assessment of MWCNTs. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015;34:1854–1862. © 2015 SETAC
Congestion and overload control techniques in massive M2M systems: a survey
Authors: Ferdouse Lilatul , Anpalagan Alagan , Misra Sudip
Published: March 2015

Smart applications, Internet of things, cloud computing technologies are becoming connected together by autonomous and intelligent devices. Communication among those devices, called machine‐type communication (MTC) can be done through cellular networks. A cellular network typically handles both voice and data traffic. Cellular based machine‐to‐machine (M2M) communication utilises cellular infrastructure to convey their information among MTC devices. Although MTC devices generate small amount of data traffic, massive amount of MTC devices create overload problem which hugely impacts the radio access and core networks of the cellular system. This article discusses M2M systems, its various applications, architectural requirements, functionalities, services and features from congestion and overload control point of view. In particular, a survey of congestion control problem in M2M systems and its various solutions are discussed in this article. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of highly under‐ventilated fires using the cone calorimeter
Authors: Fourneau Charles , Delvosalle Christian , Breulet Hervé , Brohez Sylvain
Published: March 2015

The cone calorimeter, originally designed with an ‘open configuration‘, may be used in combination with a closed‐combustion chamber in order to test specimens in oxygen‐depleted atmospheres (air vitiation effect) or in fuel‐rich combustion (ventilation effect). However, highly under‐ventilated conditions are not achievable, as a consequence of an overconsumption of oxygen due to the incomplete confinement of the flame and imperfections in the air tightness of the combustion volume. In this work, these issues were solved by lowering the combustion zone, in order to fit a 600 mm chimney on the top of the controlled‐atmosphere chamber, and further improving the sealing of the whole setup. n‐Heptane was used as a reference fuel, and its combustion properties were determined in under‐ventilated conditions. The yields of main combustion species correlated well with the global equivalence ratio, for values of Φ up to three. The use of a Fourier‐transform infrared spectrometer allowed further refinement of the total unburned‐fraction composition. The relative concentration of species like methane, ethylene, or acetylene was shown to be relatively constant over the range of under‐ventilated conditions. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation and characterization of nanoemulsions stabilized by food biopolymers using microfluidization
Authors: Zhang Jian , Peppard Terry L. , Reineccius Gary A.
Published: March 2015

Emulsions are widely used in beverage products and typically impart cloudiness to the beverage. Nanoemulsions have the potential to provide a transparent appearance to the beverage. The objective of the present study was to investigate the formation of nanoemulsions using food biopolymers and its potential for clear beverage applications. The biopolymers chosen for study were Gum Arabic (GA), modified gum arabic (MGA), whey protein isolate (WPI) and modified starch (Purity Gum 2000, MS). Weighted orange oil terpenes (OT) and medium chain triglycerides (MCT) were used as the dispersed phase. Nanoemulsions were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), cryogenic scanning electron microscopy (Cryo‐SEM) and turbidimeter. Except for the WPI stabilized nanoemulsions, higher homogenization pressures (up to 22 000 psi) and a greater number of passes (up to 7) through a Microfluidizer® produced nanoemulsions with a smaller mean droplet diameter in volume (MDD, dV). MS showed the best performance of the food biopolymers resulting in a MDD as small as 77 nm and a corresponding turbidity of 72 NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Units) at 0.05% of the dispersed phase, whereas GA produced emulsions with the largest MDD. The MDD of MS stabilized nanoemulsions decreased with increasing MS concentrations (from 5 to 25 wt %). The effect of oil types on MDD was complex being dependent on the emulsifier and homogenization pressure. Turbidity of diluted nanoemulsions increases with MDD within the range of 70–300 nm. This study shows food biopolymers can be used to produce nanoemulsions using microfluidization under a high pressure. It was also demonstrated that nanoemulsions with a MDD < 100 nm can provide a clear appearance in beverage applications. The results provide an understanding of how manufacturing parameters and formulation influence the formation of nanoemulsions. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cognitive dysfunction in patients with very mild Alzheimer's disease and amnestic mild cognitive impairment showing hemispheric asymmetries of hypometabolism on 18F‐FDG PET
Authors: Murayama Norio , Ota Kazumi , Kasanuki Koji , Kondo Daizo , Fujishiro Hiroshige , Fukase Yuko , Tagaya Hirokuni , Sato Kiyoshi , Iseki Eizo
Published: March 2015

Objective

We investigated cognitive dysfunction in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) who present hemispheric asymmetries of cerebral metabolic rate of glucose (CMRglc) decrease on 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography.

Methods

Based on the hemispheric asymmetries of CMRglc decrease in the posterior cingulate cortex, precuneus, and parietotemporal cortex, the patients were divided into three groups (a left‐dominant hypometabolism group, a right‐dominant hypometabolism group, and a non‐dominant hypometabolism group). CMRglc decrease in the whole brain was controlled among the three groups. All the patients underwent mini‐mental state examination (MMSE), Wechsler Memory Scale‐Revised (WMS‐R), and Wechsler Adult Intelligent Scale‐Third (WAIS‐III).

Results

There were no significant differences in MMSE and WAIS‐III scores among the three groups. In WMS‐R, the results indicated that the left‐dominant group demonstrated significantly lower scores in verbal memory than the other two groups. Furthermore, the left‐dominant group had a greater tendency to be diagnosed with AD rather than aMCI.

Conclusions

Patients with AD and aMCI showing left‐dominant hypometabolism tend to show severer impairment in verbal memory function and to be diagnosed with AD dementia. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pigmented villonodular synovitis of the temporomandibular joint: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Damodar Dhanur , Chan Nadia , Kokot Niels
Published: March 2015

Background

We present a case of a 51‐year‐old male patient with pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) of the left temporomandibular joint (TMJ) that initially presented as a slow‐growing left facial mass. Upon further workup, a contrast‐enhanced CT scan demonstrated an expansile soft tissue mass in the left TMJ.

Methods

The lesion was diagnosed through fine‐needle aspiration biopsy. The patient was treated with resection of the TMJ, temporal bone, and root of the zygoma. A temporalis muscle and temporoparietal fascia flap was used for reconstruction to fill the defect and provide contour.

Results

Postoperatively, the patient has been tumor free with excellent cosmesis. Our case demonstrates a very successful outcome.

Conclusion

Previous literature has also reported that complete excision is an ideal procedure for PVNS of TMJ, but temporalis rotational flap use has been rare. This case and previously reported cases in the literature are also reviewed. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 37: E194–E199, 2015
Good tolerance and long‐term complete remission after definitive intensity‐modulated radiotherapy for locally advanced head and neck cancer in a patient with human immunodeficiency virus infection: A case report and literature review
Authors: Chen Wan‐Yu , Kuo Sung‐Hsin , Shen Chia‐Wei , Huang Bing‐Shen , Lan Keng‐Hsueh , Liang Hsiang‐Kuang , Wang Chun‐Wei
Published: March 2015

Background

The main concerns with radiation therapy for head and neck cancer in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐infected patients include limited tumor response and profound mucosal or skin toxicities under severe immunocompromised status.

Methods

In this study, we describe the clinicopathological features, chronological changes in HIV viral loads and CD4 counts, and treatment outcomes of definitive radiotherapy for locally advanced head and neck cancer in an HIV‐infected patient.

Results

Despite low CD4 counts (80 cells/µL), a combination of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and definitive concurrent chemoradiotherapy (70 Gy of simultaneously integrated boost intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), fluorouracil, and leucovorin) was well‐tolerated. Grade 3 mucositis and dermatitis were resolved 2 weeks after treatment completion. The patient was alive and remained disease‐free 31 months after treatment.

Conclusion

For patients with HIV diagnosed with locally advanced head and neck cancer, good tolerance and outcome can be achieved with definitive radiotherapy while on HAART. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 37: E186–E190, 2015
Hepatitis C virus infects rhesus macaque hepatocytes and simianized mice
Authors: Scull Margaret A. , Shi Chao , de Jong Ype P. , Gerold Gisa , Ries Moritz , von Schaewen Markus , Donovan Bridget M. , Labitt Rachael N. , Horwitz Joshua A. , Gaska Jenna M. , Hrebikova Gabriela , Xiao Jing W. , Flatley Brenna , Fung Canny , Chiriboga Luis , Walker Christopher M. , Evans David T. , Rice Charles M. , Ploss Alexander
Published: March 2015

At least 170 million people are chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). Owing to the narrow host range of HCV and restricted use of chimpanzees, there is currently no suitable animal model for HCV pathogenesis studies or the development of a HCV vaccine. To identify cellular determinants of interspecies transmission and establish a novel immunocompetent model system, we examined the ability of HCV to infect hepatocytes from a small nonhuman primate, the rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta). We show that the rhesus orthologs of critical HCV entry factors support viral glycoprotein‐dependent virion uptake. Primary hepatocytes from rhesus macaques are also permissive for HCV‐RNA replication and particle production, which is enhanced when antiviral signaling is suppressed. We demonstrate that this may be owing to the diminished capacity of HCV to antagonize mitochondrial antiviral‐signaling protein–dependent innate cellular defenses. To test the ability of HCV to establish persistent replication in vivo, we engrafted primary rhesus macaque hepatocytes into immunocompromised xenorecipients. Inoculation of resulting simian liver chimeric mice with either HCV genotype 1a or 2a resulted in HCV serum viremia for up to 10 weeks. Conclusion: Together, these data indicate that rhesus macaques may be a viable model for HCV and implicate host immunity as a potential species‐specific barrier to HCV infection. We conclude that suppression of host immunity or further viral adaptation may allow robust HCV infection in rhesus macaques and creation of a new animal model for studies of HCV pathogenesis, lentivirus coinfection, and vaccine development. (Hepatology 2015;62:57‐67)
Runoff to boreal lakes linked to land cover, watershed morphology and permafrost thaw: a 9‐year isotope mass balance assessment
Authors: Gibson J. J. , Birks S. J. , Yi Y. , Vitt D. H.
Published: March 2015

Stable isotopes of oxygen and hydrogen were measured in water samples collected annually from a representative suite of 50 lakes in northeastern Alberta over a 9‐year period and are interpreted using a steady‐state isotope mass balance model to determine water yield and runoff ratios for the lake watersheds and residence time of the lakes. This isotopic perspective on hydrology of the region provides new insight into the role of land cover, watershed morphometry, climatic drivers and permafrost thaw on lakes. Bog cover, permafrost and presence of thaw features in bogs are found to be the dominant hydrologic drivers, although morphometric properties such as elevation, lake area and drainage basin area are also influential. In addition to quantifying the hydrologic fluxes, the analysis establishes contrasting conditions in more southerly lakes, located in the Stony Mountains and west of Fort McMurray, as compared with more northerly sites in the Birch Mountains, Caribou Mountains and northeast of Fort McMurray, mainly because of contributions from thawing permafrost at the northerly sites. Distinct hydrologic conditions are also noted for Shield systems north of Lake Athabasca where bogs and permafrost are absent. While permafrost thaw is not directly labelled by oxygen and hydrogen isotope composition, isotope mass balance calculations suggest that contributions of up to several hundred millimetres per year are occurring in 14 of the 50 lake watersheds under study. Several of these lakes have water yields in excess of precipitation in some years, and regional groups of lakes display significant correlations between water yield and percentage of bogs that have collapsed. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modelling the effects of soil type and root distribution on shallow groundwater resources
Authors: Grimaldi Stefania , Orellana Felipe , Daly Edoardo
Published: March 2015

Vegetated, shallow groundwater environments typically have high environmental and economic value. A sound understanding of the complex interactions and feedbacks between surface vegetation and groundwater resources is crucial to managing and maintaining healthy ecosystems while responding to human needs. A vegetated shallow groundwater environment was modelled using the software HYDRUS 2D to investigate the effects of several combinations of soil type and root distributions on shallow groundwater resources. Three rainfall regimes coupled to both natural and anthropogenically affected groundwater conditions were used to investigate the effect that combinations of four soil types and five root distributions can have on (a) groundwater level drops, (b) groundwater depletion, (c) groundwater recharge and (d) water stress conditions. Vegetation with roots distributed across the whole unsaturated zone and vegetation with dimorphic root systems (i.e. roots having larger concentrations both near the surface and the capillary fringe) behaved differently from vegetation growing roots mainly near the saturated zone. Specifically, vegetation with roots in the unsaturated zone caused water‐table drops and groundwater depletions that were half the amount due to deep‐rooted vegetation. Vegetation with a large portion of roots near the soil surface benefited from rainfall and was less vulnerable to water‐table lowering; as such, the fraction of the total area of roots affected by water stress conditions could be 40% smaller than in the case with deep‐rooted vegetation. However, roots uniformly distributed in the unsaturated zone could halve groundwater recharge rates observed in bare soils. Our analysis provided insights that can enable the formulation of site‐ and purpose‐specific management plans to respond to both human and ecosystem water requirements. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Joining Hydroxyazobenzene and Mannose under Mitsunobu Conditions
Authors: Hain Julia , Chandrasekaran Vijayanand , Lindhorst Thisbe K.
Published: March 2015

The Mitsunobu reaction has been revisited to join hydroxyazobenzene and mannose derivatives to supply photoswitchable glycoconjugates. These are suited to modulating and controlling carbohydrate‐lectin interactions, as well as to switching bacterial adhesion to surfaces. Employing hydroxyazobenzene in a Mitsunobu protocol, free mannose led to a mixture of azobenzene pyranosides and furanosides. Protected reducing mannose derivatives can give good yields of azobenzene β‐D‐mannopyranoside, and unprotected alkyl α‐D‐mannosides can be converted to 6‐O‐azobenzene‐modified glycosides in a single step. Thus, valuable “sweet switches” can be obtained under Mitsunobu conditions, requiring a minimum (or no) protecting group chemistry.
Application of the Thioacid‐Azide Ligation (TAL) for the Preparation of Glycosylated and Fluorescently Labeled Amino Acids
Authors: Rohmer Katja , Mannuthodikayil Jamsad , Wittmann Valentin
Published: March 2015

The reaction of thiocarboxylic acids with azides (thioacid‐azide ligation, TAL) is a chemoselective transformation, leading to the formation of amide bonds. Especially in the case of electron‐deficient sulfonyl azides, the reaction occurs in excellent yields, within minutes at room temperature, in a broad range of solvents. In this article, the application of TAL for the synthesis of glycosylated and dansylated amino acids is reported. 2‐Azidosulfonylethyl glycosides were prepared from peracetylated monosaccharides and reacted with thioacid‐containing derivatives of aspartic acid and glutamic acid. Likewise, aromatic sulfonyl azides were employed. Ligation products were obtained in yields of up to 96 %. Different conditions for the generation of the thioacids were compared. Whereas reaction of succinimidyl esters with sodium hydrogen sulfide led to concomitant formation of diacyl disulfides, trityl thioesters turned out to be suitable precursors for the in situ preparation of thioacids by mild acidolysis.
ROS‐Induced Nuclear Translocation of Calpain‐2 Facilitates Cardiomyocyte Apoptosis in Tail‐Suspended Rats
Authors: Chang Hui , Sheng Juan‐Juan , Zhang Lin , Yue Zhi‐Jie , Jiao Bo , Li Jin‐Sheng , Yu Zhi‐Bin
Published: March 2015

Isoproterenol (ISO) induced nuclear translocation of calpain‐2 which further increased susceptibility of cardiomyocyte apoptosis in tail‐suspended rats. The underlying mechanisms remain elusive. In the present study, the results showed that ISO (10 nM) significantly elevated NADPH oxidases (NOXs) activity and NOXs‐derived ROS productions which induced nuclear translocation of calpain‐2 in cardiomyocytes of tail‐suspended rats. In contrast, the inhibition of NADPH oxidase or cleavage of ROS not only reduced ROS productions, but also resisted nuclear translocation of calpain‐2 and decreased ISO‐induced apoptosis of cardiomyocyte in tail‐suspended rats. ISO also increased the constitutive binding between calpain‐2 and Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II δB (CaMK II δB) in nuclei, concomitant with the promotion of CaMK II δB degradation and subsequent down‐regulation of Bcl‐2 mRNA expression and the ratio of Bcl‐2 to Bax protein in tail‐suspended rat cardiomyocytes. These effects of ISO on cardiomyocytes were abolished by a calpain inhibitor PD150606. Inhibition of calpain significantly reduced ISO‐induced loss of the mitochondrial membrane potential, cytochrome c release into the cytoplasm, as well as the activation of caspase‐3 and caspase‐9 in mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. In summary, the above results suggest that ISO increased NOXs‐derived ROS which activated nuclear translocation of calpain‐2, subsequently nuclear calpain‐2 degraded CaMK II δB which reduced the ratio of Bcl‐2 to Bax, and finally the mitochondria apoptosis pathway was triggered in tail‐suspended rat cardiomyocytes. Therefore, calpain‐2 may represent a potentially therapeutic target for prevention of oxidative stress‐associated cardiomyocyte apoptosis. J. Cell. Biochem. 116: 2258–2269, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Measurement of Leptin by RIA Versus MIA in a Population of Healthy Newborns
Authors: Treviño‐Garza Consuelo , Mancillas‐Adame Leonardo , Estrada‐Zúñiga Cynthia M. , Villarreal‐Pérez Jesús Z. , Villarreal‐Martinez Laura , De la O‐Cavazos Manuel E.
Published: March 2015

Background

Assays based on multiplex immunoassay (MIA) technology have demonstrated advantages over enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and radioimmunoassay (RIA). Its acceptance depends on how well it performs in comparison to older techniques. The aim is to compare the results of leptin using RIA versus MIA.

Methods

We analyzed 81 samples of umbilical cord blood of healthy term newborns by RIA and MIA.

Results

The concordance correlation coefficient was 0.158 (95% CI 0.10–0.21). Pearson's correlation coefficient was 0.6651 (95% CI 0.52–0.77; P < 0.0001). In the Bland–Altman plot, concordance is acceptable because most of the measurements are within a mean of ±1.96 SD.

Conclusions

As shown by the Bland–Altman plot, there is concordance by both methods, but with a weak correlation.
VEGF Enhances the Migration of MSCs in Neural Differentiation by Regulating Focal Adhesion Turnover
Authors: Wang Huihui , Wang Xingkai , Qu Jing , Yue Qing , Hu Ya'nan , Zhang Huanxiang
Published: March 2015

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) hold great promise in neural regeneration, due to their intrinsic neuronal potential and migratory tropism to damaged nervous tissues. However, the chemotactic signals mediating the migration of MSCs remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated the regulatory roles for focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and Rac1 in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐stimulated migration of MSCs in neural differentiation. We found that MSCs in various differentiation states show significant different chemotactic responses to VEGF and cells in 24‐h preinduction state possess the highest migration speed and efficiency. FAK, as the downstream signaling molecule, is involved in the VEGF‐induced migration by regulating the assembly and distribution of focal adhesions (FAs) and reorganization of F‐actin. The features of FAs and cytoskeletons and the ability of lamellipodia formation are closely related to the neural differentiation states of MSCs. VEGF promotes FA formation with an asymmetric distribution of FAs and induces the activation of Y397‐FAK and Y31/118‐paxillin of undifferentiated and 24‐h preinduced MSCs in a time‐dependent manner. Inhibition of FAK by PF‐228 or expressing FAK‐Y397F mutant impairs the dynamics of FAs in MSCs during VEGF‐induced migration. Furthermore, Rac1 regulates FA formation in a FAK‐dependent manner. Overexpression of constitutive activated mutants of Rac1 increases the number of FAs in undifferentiated and 24‐h preinduced MSCs, while VEGF‐induced increase of FA formation is decreased by inhibiting FAK by PF‐228. Collectively, these results demonstrate that FAK and Rac1 signalings coordinately regulate the dynamics of FAs during VEGF‐induced migration of MSCs in varying neural differentiation states. J. Cell. Physiol. 9999: 2728–2742, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lactogenic hormone stimulation and epigenetic control of L‐amino acid oxidase expression in lactating mammary glands
Authors: Fujii Kazuki , Zhang Haolin , Usuda Kento , Watanabe Gen , Nagaoka Kentaro
Published: March 2015

L‐amino acid oxidase (LAO), a classic flavoprotein, shows antibacterial activity by producing hydrogen peroxide. LAO exists in many tissues such as salivary gland, thymus, spleen, small intestine and testis. In particular, LAO was highly expressed in mice milk and plays an important factor in innate immunity of mammary glands. However, the mechanism which LAO expression is regulated spatially and temporally in lactating mammary glands has been unclear. In this study, we showed the contribution of lactogenic hormone and epigenetic control on LAO gene expression. In monolayer of mammary epithelial cells, treatment of lactogenic hormone mixture, dexamethasone, insulin and prolactin, did not induce LAO mRNA expression and its promoter activity, even though one of milk protein β‐casein expression was stimulated. However, increase of LAO expression was observed when the cells were treated with lactogenic hormones in a 3‐dimensional culture. The results of chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis revealed that histone H3K18 acetylation increased and histone H3K27 tri‐methylation decreased with lactation, which is associated with a period of high LAO expression. Moreover, the treatment of histone methylation inhibitor (DZNep) as well as histone deacetylation inhibitor (Trichostatine A) induced LAO expression in monolayer of mammary cells. Taken together, this is the first demonstration showing that LAO expression is induced in cell culture, and stimulation of lactogenic hormone and change of histone modification are promising signals to show highly expression of LAO in lactating mammary glands. J. Cell. Physiol. 9999: 2755–2762, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Determinants of Muscle and Bone Aging
Authors: Curtis Elizabeth , Litwic Anna , Cooper Cyrus , Dennison Elaine
Published: March 2015

Loss of bone and muscle with advancing age represent a huge threat to loss of independence in later life. Osteoporosis represents a major public health problem through its association with fragility fractures, primarily of the hip, spine and distal forearm. Sarcopenia, the age related loss of muscle mass and function, may add to fracture risk by increasing falls risk. In the context of muscle aging, it is important to remember that it is not just a decline in muscle mass which contributes to the deterioration of muscle function. Other factors underpinning muscle quality come into play, including muscle composition, aerobic capacity and metabolism, fatty infiltration, insulin resistance, fibrosis and neural activation. Genetic, developmental, endocrine and lifestyle factors, such as physical activity, smoking and poor diet have dual effects on both muscle and bone mass in later life and these will be reviewed here. Recent work has highlighted a possible role for the early environment. Inflammaging is an exciting emerging research field that is likely to prove relevant to future work, including interventions designed to retard to reverse bone and muscle loss with age. J. Cell. Physiol. 9999: 2618–2625, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Photoresponsive molecularly imprinted hydrogel casting membrane for the determination of trace tetracycline in milk
Authors: Wang Qiang , Lv Zhen , Tang Qian , Gong Cheng‐Bin , Lam Michael Hon Wah , Ma Xue‐Bing , Chow Cheuk‐Fai
Published: March 2015

This study aimed to develop a photoresponsive molecularly imprinted hydrogel (MIH) casting membrane for the determination of trace tetracycline (TC) in milk. This MIH casting membrane combined the specificity of MIHs, the photoresponsive properties of azobenzene, and the portable properties of a membrane. Photoresponsive TC‐imprinted MIHs were initially fabricated and then cast on sodium dodecyl sulfonate polyacrylamide gel. After TC removal, a photoresponsive MIH casting membrane was obtained. The photoresponsive properties of the MIH casting membrane were robust, and no obvious photodegradation was observed after 20 cycles. The MIH casting membrane displayed specific affinity to TC upon alternate irradiation at 365 and 440 nm; it could quantitatively uptake and release TC. The TC concentration (0.0–2.0 × 10−4 mol l−1) in aqueous solution displayed a linear relationship with the photoisomerization rate constant of azobenzene within the MIH casting membrane. As such, a quick detection method for trace TC in aqueous foodstuff samples was established. The recovery of this method for TC in milk was investigated with a simple pretreatment of milk, and a high recovery of 100.54–106.35% was obtained. Therefore, the fabricated membrane can be used as a portable molecular sensor that can be easily recycled. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐speed MALDI MS/MS imaging mass spectrometry using continuous raster sampling
Authors: Prentice Boone M. , Chumbley Chad W. , Caprioli Richard M.
Published: March 2015

A matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight/time of flight tandem mass spectrometer (MALDI TOF/TOF) has been used for high‐speed precursor/fragment ion transition image acquisition. High‐throughput analysis is facilitated by an Nd:YLF solid state laser capable of pulse repetition rates up to 5 kHz, a high digitizer acquisition rate (up to 50 pixels/s), and continuous laser raster sampling. MS/MS experiments are enabled through the use of a precision timed ion selector, second source acceleration, and a dedicated collision cell. Continuous raster sampling is shown here to facilitate rapid MS/MS ion image acquisition from thin tissue sections for the drug rifampicin and for a common kidney lipid, SM4s(d18:1/24:1). The ability to confirm the structural identity of an analyte as part of the MS/MS imaging experiment is an essential part of the analysis. Additionally, the increase in sensitivity and specificity afforded by an MS/MS approach is highly advantageous, especially when interrogating complex chemical environments such as those in biological tissues. Herein, we report continuous laser raster sampling TOF/TOF imaging methodologies which demonstrate 8 to 14‐fold increases in throughput compared with existing MS/MS instrumentation, an important advantage when imaging large areas on tissues. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Peak loading during walking is not associated with fracture migration following tibial plateau fracture: A preliminary case series
Authors: Thewlis Dominic , Callary Stuart A. , Fraysse Francois , Solomon Lucian B.
Published: March 2015

Tibial plateau fractures are common, but little evidence exists for their postoperative management, especially when recommending if patients should weight bear at all, partially, or as tolerated. In this study, we describe the loads passing through the fracture construct and the associated fracture migration over the first year following surgery. Nine patients were treated with open reduction and internal fixation and instructed to weight bear as tolerated. Fracture loading and migration were assessed at 2, 12, 26, and 52 weeks postoperative. Fracture loading was calculated as the knee joint reaction force (peak, average, the angle of the force vector, and the point of force application) using gait analysis and an inverse dynamics musculoskeletal model. Fracture migration was assessed using radiostereometric analysis. The fractures were progressively loaded during the rehabilitation phase. The point of application of the load shifted from neutral to medial by week 26 for all patients. Migration during the first postoperative year was within current clinical acceptable limits. The peak load during walking at each time point was not associated with fracture fragment migration and does not appear to exceed the elastic limit of the fracture construct. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 33:1398–1406, 2015.
Effect of component mal‐rotation on knee loading in total knee arthroplasty using multi‐body dynamics modeling under a simulated walking gait
Authors: Chen Zhenxian , Wang Ling , Liu Yaxiong , He Jiankang , Lian Qin , Li Dichen , Jin Zhongmin
Published: March 2015

Mal‐rotation of the components in total knee arthorplasty (TKA) is a major cause of postoperative complications, with an increased propensity for implant loosening or wear leading to revision. A musculoskeletal multi‐body dynamics model was used to perform a parametric study of the effects of the rotational mal‐alignments in TKA on the knee loading under a simulated walking gait. The knee contact forces were found to be more sensitive to variations in the varus–valgus rotation of both the tibial and the femoral components and the internal–external rotation of the femoral component in TKA. The varus–valgus mal‐rotation of the tibial or femoral component and the internal–external mal‐rotation of the femoral component with a 5° variation were found to affect the peak medial contact force by 17.8–53.1%, the peak lateral contact force by 35.0–88.4% and the peak total contact force by 5.2–18.7%. Our findings support the clinical observations that a greater than 3° internal mal‐rotation of the femoral component may lead to unsatisfactory pain levels and a greater than 3° varus mal‐rotation of the tibial component may lead to medial bone collapse. These findings determined the quantitative effects of the mal‐rotation of the components in TKA on the contact load. The effect of such mal‐rotation of the components of TKA on the kinematics would be further addressed in future studies. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 33:1287–1296, 2015.
Well‐Controlled Synthesis of Poly (phenylene sulfide) (PPS) Starting from Cyclic Oligomers
Authors: Horiuchi Syunsuke , Yamamoto Daisuke , Kaiho Shu , Yamashita Kohei , Yokoe Makito , Osato Keiko , Yamauchi Koji
Published: March 2015

The mixture of cyclic PPS oligomers (c‐PPS) with more than 99% of purity, less than 15 ppm of metal content and more than 4 of repeating units was prepared by the nucleophilic substitution reaction between dichlorobenzene (DCB) and sodium sulfide (Na2S) in relatively dilute solution. Melt polymerization of the c‐PPS in the absence of initiator at high temperature resulted in P(c‐PPS) having high molecular weight, relatively narrow molecular weight distribution and extremely low weight loss at high temperature. Results from MALDI‐TOF‐MS, GPC and in‐situ ESR analysis of the polymerization intermediates suggested that the polymerization of c‐PPS proceeded by a sulfide exchanging polymerization. In addition, the sulfide exchanging polymerization of c‐PPS in the presence of bis(4‐substituted phenyl) sulfides (BPS‐X) such as bis(4‐aminopheny) sulfide (BPS‐NH2), bis(4‐carboxyphenyl) sulfide (BPS‐COOH), and bis(4‐chlorophenyl) sulfide (BPS‐Cl) produced end‐group modified and ring‐opened P(c‐PPS)s. Comparison of polymerization rate in the presence of BPS‐X suggested that the BPS‐X acted as both initiator and chain transfer agent, and the sulfide exchanging polymerization was accelerated by the addition of BPS‐NH2 and BPS‐COOH due to the activation of sulfide linkage through the substitution effect.
Anionic Polymerization of Reactive 3‐Chloropropyl Isocyanate
Authors: Chae Chang‐Geun , Shah Priyank N. , Min Joonkeun , Yu Yong‐Guen , Lee Jae‐Suk
Published: March 2015

For the synthesis of a new functional polyisocyanate, the anionic polymerization of 3‐chloropropyl isocyanate (3CPIC) was carried out using several initiator systems in THF at −98 °C. When a sodium benzanilide (Na‐BA) cluster was used as an aggregated initiator, the initiation efficiency and polymer yield were low due to too fast propagation and cyclic trimerization compared to the initiation. A more reactive oligo(n‐hexyl isocyanate)sodium/Na‐BA cluster improved the initiation efficiency and polymer yield, but trimerization still occurred. A nearly quantitative yield was achieved by oligo(2‐vinylpyridinyl)potassium in the presence of a large excess of sodium tetraphenylborate (NaBPh4). In this case, highly dissociating and bulky NaBPh4 reduced the propagation rate and protected the propagating chain end from trimerization through steric hindrance. This advantage of NaBPh4 was cancelled by the decreased initiation efficiency. All polymerization trials resulted in uncontrolled molecular weight properties. The chloropropyl side groups of the obtained P3CPIC reacted with polystyryllithium to generate poly(3‐chloropropyl isocyanate)‐graft‐polystyrene (P3CPIC‐g‐PS) through the grafting‐onto method.