bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probiotics as beneficial agents in the management of diabetes mellitus: a systematic review
Authors: Razmpoosh Elham , Javadi Maryam , Ejtahed Hanieh‐Sadat , Mirmiran Parvin
Published: May 2015

Probiotics have been suggested to play an important role in the management of diabetes. We conducted a systematic review on the role of probiotics in modulating parameters related to diabetes in animal and human experiments. We searched Pubmed, Scopus and Cochrane central until June 2014, concerning the effects of probiotics on hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia and their anti‐diabetic efficacies by modulating the activities of proinflammatory and antioxidant factors. Our initial search retrieved 1120 reports. After screening titles and abstracts, 72 full‐text articles were reviewed for eligibility. Ultimately, 33 articles met our inclusion criteria consisting of five human and twenty eight animal reports. Lactobacillus strains were, in particular, used in all studies with or without other strains. We found that probiotics have beneficial effects on glycemic controls, as all human studies showed significant reductions in at least one of the primary outcome endpoints which were the levels of fasting plasma glucose, postprandial blood glucose, glycated haemoglobin, insulin, insulin resistance and onset of diabetes; similarly, all the animal reports, except for two, documented significant changes in these parameters. Regarding secondary outcome measures, that is, lipid profiles, pro‐inflammatory and anti‐oxidant factors, only one human and one animal study failed to show any significant changes in any of these parameters. This systematic review generally demonstrated beneficial effects of the probiotic administration, especially Lactobacillus sub‐strains, on the management of diabetes‐related blood parameters, although, more evidence, especially from human trials, is needed to confirm these effects and also to conduct a meta‐analysis. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Forebrain circuits underlying the social modulation of vocal communication signals
Authors: Matheson Laura E. , Sun Herie , Sakata Jon T.
Published: May 2015

Across vertebrate species, signalers alter the structure of their communication signals based on the social context. For example, male Bengalese finches produce faster and more stereotyped songs when directing song to females (female‐directed [FD] song) than when singing in isolation (undirected [UD] song), and such changes have been found to increase the attractiveness of a male's song. Despite the importance of such social influences, little is known about the mechanisms underlying the social modulation of communication signals. To this end, we analyzed differences in immediate early gene (EGR‐1) expression when Bengalese finches produced FD or UD song.Relative to silent birds, EGR‐1 expression was elevated in birds producing either FD or UD song throughout vocal control circuitry, including the interface nucleus of the nidopallium (NIf), HVC, the robust nucleus of the arcopallium (RA), Area X, and the lateral magnocellular nucleus of the anterior nidopallium (LMAN).Moreover, EGR‐1 expression was higher in HVC, RA, Area X, and LMAN in males producing UD song than in males producing FD song, indicating that social context modulated EGR‐1 expression in these areas. However, EGR‐1 expression was not significantly different between males producing FD or UD song in NIf, the primary vocal motor input into HVC, suggesting that context‐dependent changes could arisede novoin HVC. The pattern of context‐dependent differences in EGR‐1 expression in the Bengalese finch was highly similar to that in the zebra finch and suggests that social context affects song structure by modulating activity throughout vocal control nuclei.© 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 76: 47–63, 2016
Can changes in the distributions of resident birds in China over the past 50 years be attributed to climate change?
Authors: Wu Jianguo , Zhang Guobin
Published: May 2015

The distributions of bird species have changed over the past 50 years in China. To evaluate whether the changes can be attributed to the changing climate, we analyzed the distributions of 20 subspecies of resident birds in relation to climate change. Long‐term records of bird distributions, gray relational analysis, fuzzy‐set classification techniques, and attribution methods were used. Among the 20 subspecies of resident birds, the northern limits of over half of the subspecies have shifted northward since the 1960s, and most changes have been related to the thermal index. Driven by climate change over the past 50 years, the suitable range and latitude or longitude of the distribution centers of certain birds have exhibited increased fluctuations. The northern boundaries of over half of the subspecies have shifted northward compared with those in the 1960s. The consistency between the observed and predicted changes in the range limits was quite high for some subspecies. The changes in the northern boundaries or the latitudes of the centers of distribution of nearly half of the subspecies can be attributed to climate change. The results suggest that climate change has affected the distributions of particular birds. The method used to attribute changes in bird distributions to climate change may also be effective for other animals.
Syntheses, Spectroscopy, and Structural Analyses of Dinuclear Chiral‐at‐Metal μ‐Aqua‐tetrakis[(R or S)‐N‐1‐(Ar)ethylsalicylaldiminato]di‐Λ‐ or ‐Δ‐nickel(II) Complexes
Authors: Enamullah Mohammed , Quddus Mohammad Abdul , Hasan Mohammad Rezabul , Pescitelli Gennaro , Berardozzi Roberto , Reiß Guido J. , Janiak Christoph
Published: May 2015

Enantiopure dinuclear μ‐aqua‐tetrakis[(R or S)‐N‐1‐(Ar)ethylsalicylaldiminato]di‐Λ‐ or ‐Δ‐nickel(II) [Ar = C6H5 (R‐1/S‐1), p‐MeOC6H4 (R‐2/S‐2), p‐ClC6H4 (R‐3/S‐3), p‐BrC6H4 (R‐4)] complexes have been synthesized from the reaction between (R or S)‐N‐1‐(Ar)ethylsalicylaldimine and nickel(II) acetate. Their CD spectra demonstrate chirality transfer from the ligands to the metal ions and a mirror‐image relationship for the enantiomeric pair R‐3/S‐3 in thf. DSC analyses show that the complexes exhibit an irreversible dissociation to the mononuclear species, which in turn undergo decomposition. The 1H NMR spectra reveal the presence of four salicylaldiminates, one aqua ligand, and two molecules of methanol in each dinuclear complex. They also confirm the existence of a dinuclear‐bridged aqua bis‐octahedral NiII complex in solution. The IR spectra in CH2Cl2 show a very strong band at around 2306 cm–1 due to the νO–H of the bridged aqua ligand. The X‐ray structures of R‐2, S‐2, R‐3, and S‐3 confirm the formation of dinuclear compounds comprising two nickel ions, four salicylaldiminates, and one aqua ligand with two molecules of methanol (or water in S‐2). Each nickel ion is surrounded by two N,O‐chelating salicylaldiminates, a bridging salicyl‐O atom from the neighboring nickel ion, and a bridging aqua ligand in a distorted octahedral polyhedron. Analyses of the absolute structures reveal a diastereomeric induction of the R or S ligand giving a Λ or Δ configuration at the nickel atoms in R‐2/3 or S‐2/3 that is independent of the ligand substituents.
Peptide‐Catalyzed Desymmetrization of an Achiral Ferrocenyl Compound To Induce Planar Chirality
Authors: Akagawa Kengo , Akiyama Midori , Kudo Kazuaki
Published: May 2015

Selective monohydrogenation of an achiral ferrocenebis(enal) was achieved with a resin‐supported peptide catalyst to afford an enantioenriched planar‐chiral product. It was also demonstrated that the reaction was followed by a kinetic resolution through cyclization of the product.
Label‐Free Electrochemical Aptasensor for Determination of Chloramphenicol Based on Gold Nanocubes‐Modified Screen‐Printed Gold Electrode
Authors: Bagheri Hashkavayi Ayemeh , Bakhsh Raoof Jahan , Ojani Reza , Hamidi Asl Ezat
Published: May 2015

An ultrasensitive label‐free electrochemical aptasensor was developed for selective detection of chloramphenicol (CAP). The aptasensor was made using screen‐printed gold electrode modified with synthesized gold nanocube/cysteine. The interactions of CAP with aptamer were studied by cyclic voltammetry, square wave voltammetry (SWV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Under optimized conditions, two linear calibration curves were obtained for CAP determination using SWV technique, from 0.03 to 0.10 µM and 0.25–6.0 µM with a detection limit of 4.0 nM. The aptasensor has the advantages of good selectivity and stability and applied to the determination of CAP in human blood serum sample.
Electrochemical Modulation of the Fluorescence of Cyanine Dye Cy5
Authors: Zhang Min , Jiang Junguang , Cai Mingjun , Wang Hongda
Published: May 2015

Organic fluorescent dyes are widely used in single molecule localization microscopy, where their performances are determined by the photophysical properties. Herein, we utilized a sensitive method to modulate the fluorescence of organic dyes by external potentials using a combination of electrochemical cell and super‐resolution fluorescent microscopy. Cy5 (cyanine dye) was chosen as a model molecule considering its wide application and commercial availability. We applied different potentials on the Au electrode to change the Coulombic charge microenvironment of Cy5. When the electrode potential was adjusted negatively, Cy5 displayed a better photostability. This method is proved effective in adjusting the fluorescence of organic dyes.
Stability of energy metabolites—An often overlooked issue in metabolomics studies: A review
Authors: Gil Andres , Siegel David , Permentier Hjalmar , Reijngoud Dirk‐Jan , Dekker Frank , Bischoff Rainer
Published: May 2015

Recent advances in analytical chemistry have set the stage for metabolite profiling to help understand complex molecular processes in physiology. Despite ongoing efforts, there are concerns regarding metabolomics workflows, since it has been shown that internal (enzyme activity, blood contamination, and the dynamic nature of metabolite concentrations) as well as external factors (storage, handling, and analysis method) may affect the metabolome profile. Many metabolites are intrinsically instable, particularly some of those associated with central carbon metabolism. While enzymatic conversions have been studied in great detail, nonenzymatic, chemical conversions received comparatively little attention. This review aims to give an in‐depth overview of nonenzymatic energy metabolite degradation/interconversion chemistry focusing on a selected range of metabolites. Special attention will be given to qualitative (degradation pathways) as well as quantitative aspects, that may affect the acquisition of accurate data in the context of metabolomics studies. Problems related to the use of isotopically labeled internal standards hindering the quantitative analysis of common metabolites will be presented with an experimental example. Finally, general conclusions and perspectives are given.
Microchip electrophoresis with electrochemical detection for the determination of analytes in the dopamine metabolic pathway
Authors: Saylor Rachel A. , Reid Erin A. , Lunte Susan M.
Published: May 2015

A method for the separation and detection of analytes in the dopamine metabolic pathway was developed using microchip electrophoresis with electrochemical detection. The microchip consisted of a 5 cm PDMS separation channel in a simple‐t configuration. Analytes in the dopamine metabolic pathway were separated using a background electrolyte composed of 15 mM phosphate at pH 7.4, 15 mM SDS, and 2.5 mM boric acid. Two different microchip substrates using different electrode materials were compared for the analysis: a PDMS/PDMS device with a carbon fiber electrode and a PDMS/glass hybrid device with a pyrolyzed photoresist film carbon electrode. While the PDMS/PDMS device generated high separation efficiencies and good resolution, more reproducible migration times were obtained with the PDMS/glass hybrid device, making it a better choice for biological applications. Lastly, the optimized method was used to monitor l‐DOPA metabolism in a rat brain slice.
The Functional Significance of Shyness in Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: Winecoff Amy A. , Ngo Lawrence , Moskovich Ashley , Merwin Rhonda , Zucker Nancy
Published: May 2015

The defining features of anorexia nervosa (AN) include disordered eating and disturbance in the experience of their bodies; however, many women with AN also demonstrate higher harm avoidance (HA), lower novelty seeking, and challenges with interpersonal functioning. The current study explored whether HA and novelty seeking could explain variation in disordered eating and social functioning in healthy control women ( n = 18), weight‐restored women with a history of AN (n = 17), and women currently‐ill with AN (AN; n = 17). Our results indicated that clinical participants (AN + weight‐restored women) reported poorer social skills than healthy control participants. Moreover, the relationship between eating disorder symptoms and social skill deficits was mediated by HA. Follow‐up analyses indicated that only the ‘shyness with strangers’ factor of HA independently mediated this relationship. Collectively, our results suggest a better understanding of shyness in many individuals with eating disorders could inform models of interpersonal functioning in AN. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Optimization of intermittent microwave–convective drying using response surface methodology
Authors: Aghilinategh Nahid , Rafiee Shahin , Hosseinpour Soleiman , Omid Mahmoud , Mohtasebi Seyed Saeid
Published: May 2015

In this study, response surface methodology was used for optimization of intermittent microwave–convective air drying (IMWC) parameters with employing desirability function. Optimization factors were air temperature (40–80°C), air velocity (1–2 m/sec), pulse ratio) PR ((2–6), and microwave power (200–600 W) while responses were rehydration ratio, bulk density, total phenol content (TPC), color change, and energy consumption. Minimum color change, bulk density, energy consumption, maximum rehydration ratio, and TPC were assumed as criteria for optimizing drying conditions of apple slices in IMWC. The optimum values of process variables were 1.78 m/sec air velocity, 40°C air temperature, PR 4.48, and 600 W microwave power that characterized by maximum desirability function (0.792) using Design expert 8.0. The air temperature and microwave power had significant effect on total responses, but the role of air velocity can be ignored. Generally, the results indicated that it was possible to obtain a higher desirability value if the microwave power and temperature, respectively, increase and decrease.
Effect of nano‐composite and Thyme oil (Tymus Vulgaris L) coating on fruit quality of sweet cherry (Takdaneh Cv) during storage period
Authors: Nabifarkhani Naser , Sharifani Mehdi , Daraei Garmakhany Amir , Ganji Moghadam Ebrahim , Shakeri Alireza
Published: May 2015

Sweet cherry is one of the most appreciated fruit by consumers since it is an early season fruit and has an excellent quality. In this study effect of active nano composite formed from chitosan (as a matrix material), nano cellulose fiber (1% concentration) and Thyme oils (Tymus Vulgaris L) at 1% concentration on fruits quality was investigated. Treated fruits were stored at 1°C for 5 weeks and changes of different qualities attributes including weight loss, total acidity, TSS, anthocyanin, total sugar and malic acid content (by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method) were measured each week. Results showed that nano composite and Thyme oil significantly affect fruit's water retention and so decrease fruit weight loss and preserve anthocyanin (P < 0.05). None of applied treatments had any significant effects in comparison with control in regard to acidity while total sugar content and TSS significantly affected by treatment compared to control samples. Result of HPLC analysis showed that there was no significant difference between different treatment and control sample in term of malic acid concentrations during storage period but increase storage time lead to increase malic acid concentration in all treatments. For conclusion it can be Saied that fruits coating with nano‐composite, lead to increase fruit shelf life, better appearance and prevents fungal growth that may be due to creation of an active packaging by these compounds.
Medical examiner and coroner reports: uses and limitations in the epidemiology and prevention of late‐life suicide
Authors: Cheung Gary , Merry Sally , Sundram Frederick
Published: May 2015

Objective

Late‐life suicide is a growing public health concern in many parts of the world. Understanding the contributory factors to completed suicide is essential to inform the development of effective suicide risk assessment and management. The aim of this study is to synthesise the findings in studies that used coroner or medical examiner records to determine these contributory factors.

Methods

The databases of Scopus (from 1960), MEDLINE (from 1946) and PsychINFO (from 1806) were searched in August 2013, to identify studies that used coroner or medical examiner records for investigating the epidemiological, sociodemographic characteristics and clinical aspects of late‐life suicide.

Results

In total, 25 studies were identified. There was a lack of standardisation of variables assessed between studies leading to incomplete datasets in some work. However, a diagnosis of depression was found in 33%, and depressive mood/symptoms in 47% of cases. About 55% had a physical health problem. Terminal illness was associated with a smaller proportion (7.1%) of the cases. Older people were more likely to have had contact with primary care rather than mental health services prior to suicide.

Conclusions

Despite their limitations, coroner and medical examiner records provide an opportunity for examining suicide epidemiology. Targeting primary care providers where late‐life depression and physical illness can be detected and treated is a potential strategy to address late‐life suicide. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Medicare Managed Care Spillovers and Treatment Intensity
Authors: Callison Kevin
Published: May 2015

Evidence suggests that the share of Medicare managed care enrollees in a region affects the costs of treating traditional fee‐for‐service (FFS) Medicare beneficiaries; however, little is known about the mechanisms through which these ‘spillover effects’ operate. This paper examines the relationship between Medicare managed care penetration and treatment intensity for FFS enrollees hospitalized with a primary diagnosis of AMI. I find that increased Medicare managed care penetration is associated with a reduction in both the costs and the treatment intensity of FFS AMI patients. Specifically, as Medicare managed care penetration increases, FFS AMI patients are less likely to receive surgical reperfusion and mechanical ventilation and to experience an overall reduction in the number of inpatient procedures. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hepatocellular carcinoma risk in chronic hepatitis B virus–infected compensated cirrhosis patients with low viral load
Authors: Sinn Dong Hyun , Lee Junggyu , Goo Juna , Kim Kyunga , Gwak Geum‐Youn , Paik Yong‐Han , Choi Moon Seok , Lee Joon Hyeok , Koh Kwang Cheol , Yoo Byung Chul , Paik Seung Woon
Published: May 2015

Controversy exists about whether antiviral therapy (AVT) should be recommended for compensated cirrhosis patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and detectable, but low, serum HBV‐DNA levels. A retrospective cohort of 385 treatment‐naïve, HBV‐related compensated cirrhosis patients (mean age: 51.1 ± 9.7 years; 66% male) with low HBV‐DNA levels (<2,000 IU/mL) was assessed for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). During a median of 5.6 years of follow‐up, HCC had developed in 37 (9.6%) patients. The 5‐year cumulative HCC incidence rate was 2.2%, 8.0%, and 14.0% for patients with undetectable HBV DNA (<12 IU/mL), low HBV‐DNA levels plus normal alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, and low HBV‐DNA levels plus elevated ALT levels at baseline (P = 0.011). During follow‐up, 71 patients maintained undetectable HBV‐DNA levels, and 126 experienced HBV‐DNA elevation over 2,000 IU/mL. AVT was initiated in 77 patients. In patients without AVT, the 5‐year cumulative HCC incidence rates were 13.3%, 8.8%, and 1.4% for those who experienced HBV‐DNA elevation, those who maintained detectable, but low, HBV‐DNA levels, and those who maintained undetectable HBV‐DNA levels, respectively. The 5‐year cumulative HCC incidence rate was 5.9% for patients who started AVT; longer AVT duration and longer complete virological response (<12 IU/mL) duration was associated with lower HCC risk. Conclusion: Compensated cirrhosis patients with detectable, but low, viral load were not at low risk for HCC, and AVT was associated with lower HCC risk, suggesting that prompt AVT should be considered for these patients. (Hepatology 2015;62:694–701)
Capital Inflows and Economic Growth: Does the Role of Institutions Matter?
Authors: Slesman Ly , Baharumshah Ahmad Zubaidi , Wohar Mark E.
Published: May 2015

Recent evidence shows that institutions figure prominently in explaining the ‘Lucas paradox’. Using a threshold regression model, we extend this evidence to a situation where institutions index the relationship between foreign capital inflows and economic growth. We find strong and robust evidence that portfolio equity (including foreign direct investment) and debt inflows have positive effects on growth only in countries with high‐quality institutions. Countries that fall below the threshold level of institutional quality record either insignificant or negative effects. This paper provides a possible explanation on the so‐called Lucas paradox. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Who are maximizers? Future oriented and highly numerate individuals
Authors: Misuraca Raffaella , Teuscher Ursina , Carmeci Floriana Antonella
Published: May 2015

Two studies investigated cognitive mechanisms that may be associated with people's tendency to maximize. Maximizers are individuals who are spending a great amount of effort in order to find the very best option in a decision situation, rather than stopping the decision process when they encounter a satisfying option. These studies show that maximizers are more future oriented than other people, which may motivate them to invest the extra energy into optimal choices. Maximizers also have higher numerical skills, possibly facilitating the cognitive processes involved with decision trade‐offs.
Giant African pouched rats (Cricetomys gambianus) that work on tilled soil accurately detect land mines
Authors: Edwards Timothy L. , Cox Christophe , Weetjens Bart , Tewelde Tesfazghi , Poling Alan
Published: May 2015

Pouched rats were employed as mine‐detection animals in a quality‐control application where they searched for mines in areas previously processed by a mechanical tiller. The rats located 58 mines and fragments in this 28,050‐m2 area with a false indication rate of 0.4 responses per 100 m2. Humans with metal detectors found no mines that were not located by the rats. These findings indicate that pouched rats can accurately detect land mines in disturbed soil and suggest that they can play multiple roles in humanitarian demining.
Providing alternative reinforcers to facilitate tolerance to delayed reinforcement following functional communication training
Authors: Austin Jillian E. , Tiger Jeffrey H.
Published: May 2015

The earliest stages of functional communication training (FCT) involve providing immediate and continuous reinforcement for a communicative response (FCR) that is functionally equivalent to the targeted problem behavior. However, maintaining immediate reinforcement is not practical, and the introduction of delays is associated with increased problem behavior. The present study evaluated the effects of providing alternative reinforcers during delays to reinforcement with a 13‐year‐old boy with an intellectual disability. Problem behavior was less likely when alternative reinforcers were available during delays.
Purification, Partial Characterizations, and N‐Terminal Amino Acid Sequence of a Procoagulant Protein FV‐2 from Daboia Russelli Siamensis (Myanmar) Venom
Authors: Zhu Weiwei , Wu Zheng , Shen Shuhao , Liu Jun , Xiang Nanlin , Liao Yunjian , Lin Xi , Chen Lixin , Chen Qi
Published: May 2015

In this study, we purified and characterized the procoagulant protein FV‐2 from Daboia russelli siamensis (Myanmar) venom using ion‐exchange chromatography on CM‐Sephadex C‐50 and gel filtration on SuperdexTM G‐75 column. The activation of factor X and prothrombin was determined, respectively, by specific chromogenic substrates. The fibrinogen‐clotting activity, thermal stability, and pH stability were also determined. The N‐treminal sequence was determined by the National Center of Biomedical Analysis of China. In the end, FV‐2 was achieved with a molecular weight of 13,608.0 Da. It could activate factor X, but did not affect prothrombin or fibrinogen. The suitable pH was 6.5–7.5, and the suitable temperature ranged from 25 to 60°C. The N‐terminal sequence was Asn‐Phe‐Phe‐Gln‐Phe‐Ala‐Glu‐Met‐Ile‐Val‐Lys‐Met‐Thr‐Gly‐Lys. Taken together, our studies suggest that FV‐2 is a factor X–activating enzyme, which can activate factor X to factor Xa, but it has no effect on prothrombin and fibrinogen.
Four‐Component Reaction for Efficient Construction of Spiro[acenaphthylene‐1,2′‐quinoline] skeleton
Authors: Zhu Dan , Sun Jing , Yan Chao‐Guo
Published: May 2015

The four‐component reactions of anilines, dialkyl acetylenedicarboxylate, acenaphthenequinone, and dimedone (or cyclohexane‐1,3‐dione) in acetic acid provided an efficient synthetic procedure for the functionalized spiro[acenaphthylene‐1,2′‐quinoline] derivatives in good yields. This reaction has the advantages of using common starting material, mild reaction conditions, and operational simplicity.
An Environment‐friendly Synthesis of 2,3‐Disubstituted‐2‐iminothiazoline‐4‐ones
Authors: Meng Ge , Zheng Meilin , Dong Mengshu , Wang Mei , Zheng Aqun , Guo Zengjun
Published: May 2015

A series of 2,3‐substituted‐2‐iminothiazoline‐4‐ones derivatives have been synthesized via an improved method including an auto‐catalyzed reaction. This method avoided using any extra catalyst except for the reaction material. This method has been successful in both the aromatic substituted 2‐iminothiazolines and the alkyl substituted 2‐iminothiazolines. The special product with a hydroxyl group on the 2‐iminogroup of 1,3‐thiazoline‐4‐ones has also been obtained unexpectedly. The possible mechanism has been proposed for the special process of dealkylation and hydroxylation. This method offered a special way to afford the 2‐hydroxyimino‐substituted thiazoline‐4‐one derivatives in an efficient and eco‐friendly way. The mechanism of the transformation under acid condition has also been proposed.
A Convenient One‐Pot Synthesis of Triazolopyridine and Related Heterocycle Fused‐Triazole Analogs Through Copper Catalyzed Oxidative Cyclization Strategy
Authors: Srinivasan R. , Sembian Ruso J. , Nagarajan N. S. , Senthil Kumaran R. , Manickam G.
Published: May 2015

One‐pot synthesis of heterocycle fused‐triazole analogs from the corresponding aldehydes and heteroarylhydrazines is demonstrated. Transformation of hydrazones to the desired systems was achieved by employing the oxidative cyclization with catalytic CuBr2 and oxone. This reaction condition is mild and selective, and a wide range of functional groups were able to sustain. An array of biologically important triazolopyridines, triazolopyridazines, triazolopyrimidines, and triazoloquinolines were obtained in fairly good yield.
Synthesis of New Triazole and Oxadiazole Derivatives of Quinazolin‐4(3H)‐one and Their Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Veena Vani Kotla , Ramesh Garlapati , Venkata Rao Chunduri
Published: May 2015

A series of new triazole derivatives of quinazolin‐4(3H)‐one and new oxadiazole derivatives of quinazolin‐4(3H)‐one were synthesized. The newly synthesized compounds were characterized by IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and mass spectral data. All the newly synthesized compounds were screened for antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis (gram‐positive bacteria), Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (gram‐negative bacteria), and antifungal activity was carried out against Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger.
Polymorphisms in cytomegalovirus genotype in immunocompetent patients with corneal endotheliitis or iridocyclitis
Authors: Oka Naoko , Suzuki Takashi , Inoue Tomoyuki , Kobayashi Takeshi , Ohashi Yuichi
Published: May 2015

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) that caused corneal endotheliitis and iridocyclitis in immunocompetent patients was genotyped. The gB type1 was detected in seven endotheliitis samples (77.8%) and five iridocyclitis samples (100%), and the gB type 3 was detected in two endotheliitis samples (22.2%). The UL144 type 1 was found in five endotheliitis samples (45.5%) and five iridocyclitis samples (83.3%). The UL144 type 2 was found in two endotheliitis samples (18.2%) and one iridocyclitis sample (16.7%). The gB type 1 was predominant in endotheliitis and iridocyclitis, and the CMV genotypes in eyes with endotheliitis and iridocyclitis were similar. J. Med. Virol. 87:1441–1445, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Critical role of a pre‐purge setup in the thermal desorption analysis of volatile organic compounds by gas chromatography with mass spectrometry
Authors: Kim Yong‐Hyun , Kim Ki‐Hyun
Published: May 2015

In general, volatile organic compounds in ambient air are quantified by following a well‐defined standard calibration procedure using a gas‐/liquid‐phase standard. If the liquid standard is analyzed by a thermal desorption, the solvent effect is unavoidable through the alteration of breakthrough properties or retention times. To learn more about the variables of the thermal desorption‐based analysis, the effect of pre‐purge conditions was evaluated for 18 volatile organic compounds with different types of sorbent tube materials by fixing standard volume (1 μL) and flow rate (100 mL/min). The gas phase calibration was also carried out as reference for the non‐solvent effect. A single tube filled with Tenax TA exhibited the least solvent effect with the short pre‐purge (1 min), while being subject to the breakthrough at or above 10 min pre‐purge. For a three‐bed sorbent tube with Carboxen 1000, at least 10 min of pre‐purge was needed for the compounds with a retention time close to methanol (e.g., propanal). Another three‐bed tube with Carbopack X reduced the solvent effect efficiently for a short pre‐purge (2 min) without the breakthrough. As such, the solvent effect can be adjusted by the proper control of the sorbent tube application.
Psychological Inflexibility and Psychopathology in 9‐1‐1 Telecommunicators
Authors: Lilly Michelle M. , Allen Christy E.
Published: May 2015

Mental health in 9‐1‐1 telecommunicators has been understudied in comparison to other emergency responders. This study enrolled a sample of telecommunicators from across the United States (N = 808). As measured by self‐report, the prevalence of current probable posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was 17.6% to 24.6%; it was 23.9% for probable major depression. Structural equation modeling revealed a significant direct effect of psychological inflexibility on psychopathology (path coefficient = .32) when considered among duty‐related distress and dissociation, neuroticism, anger, and emotion dysregulation. The results provided further evidence of the adverse psychological effects of duty‐related trauma exposure, including exposure that is vicarious in nature. The results indicate a need for prevention and intervention in this population, with psychological inflexibility as a potential target in these efforts.
Mass spectrometric and charge density studies of organometallic clusters photoionized by gigawatt laser pulses
Authors: Badani Purav , Das Soumitra , Sharma Pramod , Vatsa Rajesh Kumar
Published: May 2015

Clusters on exposure to nanosecond laser pulses of gigawatt intensity exhibit a variety of photo‐chemical processes such as fragmentation, intracluster reaction, ionization, Coulomb explosion, etc. Present article summarizes the experimental results obtained in our laboratory utilizing time‐of‐flight mass spectrometer which deal with one such aspect of cluster photochemistry related to generation of multiply charged atomic ions upon excessive ionization of cluster constituents (Coulomb explosion) at low intensity laser field (∼109 W/cm2). To understand the mechanism of laser–cluster interaction, laser as well as cluster parameters were varied. Mass spectrometric studies were carried out at different laser wavelength as well as varying the nature of cluster constituents, backup pressure, nozzle diameter, etc. In addition, charge density measurements were also preformed to get information about the total number of ions generated upon laser–cluster interaction as a function of laser wavelength. In case of pure molecular clusters, the charge state of atomic ions as well as charge density was observed to enhance with increasing laser wavelength, signifying efficient coupling of the cluster medium with nanosecond laser pulse at longer wavelength. While in case of clusters doped with species having comparatively lower ionization energy, the efficiency of laser–cluster interaction was less, in contrast to studies carried out using femtosecond lasers. Results obtained in the present work have been rationalized on the basis of proposed three‐stage cluster ionization mechanism, that is, multiphoton ionization ignited‐inverse Bremsstrahlung heating and electron ionization. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Mass Spec Rev. 36:188–212, 2017
Options as a Marketing Tool: Pricing a Promotional Scheme for a Product with a Secondary Market
Authors: Afik Zvika , Lowengart Oded , Yosef Rami
Published: May 2015

Adding options to durable products allows new opportunities for manufacturers and retailers in markets with a secondary market to create better segmentation schemes, provide creative means to differentiate their products and services, and increase the value they offer consumers. This raises the need for sellers to properly price such options. This work presents a few examples of incentive programs for the car industry, develops models and calculates their cost to the seller, demonstrating the applicability of the proposed methodology. Our numerical results indicate that such options are surprisingly inexpensive for car manufacturers and dealers. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nonrigid groupwise registration for motion estimation and compensation in compressed sensing reconstruction of breath‐hold cardiac cine MRI
Authors: Royuela‐del‐Val Javier , Cordero‐Grande Lucilio , Simmross‐Wattenberg Federico , Martín‐Fernández Marcos , Alberola‐López Carlos
Published: May 2015

Purpose

Compressed sensing methods with motion estimation and compensation techniques have been proposed for the reconstruction of accelerated dynamic MRI. However, artifacts that naturally arise in compressed sensing reconstruction procedures hinder the estimation of motion from reconstructed images, especially at high acceleration factors. This work introduces a robust groupwise nonrigid motion estimation technique applied to the compressed sensing reconstruction of dynamic cardiac cine MRI sequences.

Theory and Methods

A spatio‐temporal regularized, groupwise, nonrigid registration method based on a B‐splines deformation model and a least squares metric is used to estimate and to compensate the movement of the heart in breath‐hold cine acquisitions and to obtain a quasistatic sequence with highly sparse representation in temporally transformed domains.

Results

Short axis in vivo datasets are used for validation, both original multicoil as well as DICOM data. Fully sampled data were retrospectively undersampled with various acceleration factors and reconstructions were compared with the two well‐known methods k‐t FOCUSS and MASTeR. The proposed method achieves higher signal to error ratio and structure similarity index for medium to high acceleration factors.

Conclusions

Reconstruction methods based on groupwise registration show higher quality reconstructions for cardiac cine images than the pairwise counterparts tested. Magn Reson Med 75:1525–1536, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cylindrical spirals associated with severe congenital muscle weakness and epileptic encephalopathy
Authors: Malfatti Edoardo , Chaves Marcelo , Bellance Remi , Viou Mai Thao , Sarrazin Elisabeth , Fardeau Michel , Romero Norma B.
Published: May 2015

Introduction: Cylindrical spirals are characteristic muscular inclusions consisting of spiraling double‐laminated membranes. They are found in heterogeneous clinical conditions. Methods: We obtained muscle biopsies from 2 young sisters with severe congenital hypotonia, muscle weakness, and epileptic encephalopathy, and identified cylindrical spirals. Results: We found an association between congenital encephalomyopathy and cylindrical spirals. Conclusions: In this morphological and ultrastructural study, we speculate on the origin of these peculiar structures. Muscle Nerve 52: 895–899, 2015
On the understanding of cyclic interaction mechanisms in an energy pile group
Authors: Suryatriyastuti M.E. , Burlon S. , Mroueh H.
Published: May 2015

Integrating ground heat exchanger elements into concrete piles is now considered as an efficient energy solution for heating/cooling of buildings. In addition to the static load of buildings, the concrete piles also undergo a cycle of thermal deformation. In the case of single energy pile, calculation methods already exist and permit to perform a proper geotechnical design. In the case of energy pile group, the thermo‐mechanical interactions within the group are more complex. Very few experimental results on the energy pile group are available so that numerical analysis can be an interesting way to provide complementary results about their behavior. This paper deals with a numerical analysis including a comparison between a single energy pile and an energy pile group with different boundary conditions at the pile head. In order to take into account the stress reversal induced by the thermal expansions and contractions, a cyclic elastoplastic constitutive model is introduced at the soil–pile interface. The analysis aims to give some insights about the long‐term cyclic interaction mechanisms in the energy pile group. Based on this qualitative study, some guidance can be brought for the design of energy piles in the case where group effects should be considered. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Improved visibility of brain tumors in synthetic MP‐RAGE anatomies with pure T1 weighting
Authors: Nöth Ulrike , Hattingen Elke , Bähr Oliver , Tichy Julia , Deichmann Ralf
Published: May 2015

Conventional MRI for brain tumor diagnosis employs T2‐weighted and contrast‐enhanced T1‐weighted sequences. Non‐enhanced T1‐weighted images provide improved anatomical details for precise tumor location, but reduced tumor‐to‐background contrast as elevated T1 and proton density (PD) values in tumor tissue affect the signal inversely. Radiofrequency (RF) coil inhomogeneities may further mask tumor and edema outlines. To overcome this problem, the aims of this work were to employ quantitative MRI techniques to create purely T1‐weighted synthetic anatomies which can be expected to yield improved tissue and tumor‐to‐background contrasts, to compare the quality of conventional and synthetic anatomies, and to investigate optical contrast and visibility of brain tumors and edema in synthetic anatomies. Conventional magnetization‐prepared rapid acquisition of gradient echoes (MP‐RAGE) anatomies and maps of T1, PD and RF coil profiles were acquired in comparable and clinically feasible times. Three synthetic MP‐RAGE anatomies (PD T1 weighting both with and without RF bias; pure T1 weighting) were calculated for healthy subjects and 32 patients with brain tumors. In healthy subjects, the PD T1‐weighted synthetic anatomies with RF bias precisely matched the conventional anatomies, yielding high signal‐to‐noise (SNR) and contrast‐to‐noise (CNR) ratios. Pure T1 weighting yielded lower SNR, but high CNR, because of increased optical contrasts. In patients with brain tumors, synthetic anatomies with pure T1 weighting yielded significant increases in optical contrast and improved visibility of tumor and edema in comparison with anatomies reflecting conventional T1 contrasts. In summary, the optimized purely T1‐weighted synthetic anatomy with an isotropic resolution of 1 mm, as proposed in this work, considerably enhances optical contrast and visibility of brain tumors and edema. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modified modulus‐based matrix splitting iteration methods for linear complementarity problems
Authors: Xu Wei‐wei
Published: May 2015

For solving the large sparse linear complementarity problems, we establish modified modulus‐based matrix splitting iteration methods and present the convergence analysis when the system matrices are H+‐matrices. The optima of parameters involved under some scopes are also analyzed. Numerical results show that in computing efficiency, our new methods are superior to classical modulus‐based matrix splitting iteration methods under suitable conditions. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mixed‐mode delamination in 2D layered beam finite elements
Authors: Škec Leo , Jelenić Gordan , Lustig Nikola
Published: May 2015

In this work, a 2D finite element (FE) formulation for a multi‐layer beam with arbitrary number of layers with interconnection that allows for mixed‐mode delamination is presented. The layers are modelled as linear beams, while interface elements with embedded cohesive‐zone model are used for the interconnection. Because the interface elements are sandwiched between beam FEs and attached to their nodes, the only basic unknown functions of the system are two components of the displacement vector and a cross‐sectional rotation per layer. Damage in the interface is modelled via a bi‐linear constitutive law for a single delamination mode and a mixed‐mode damage evolution law. Because in a numerical integration procedure, the damage occurs only in discrete integration points (i.e. not continuously), the solution procedure experiences sharp snap backs in the force‐displacements diagram. A modified arc‐length method is used to solve this problem. The present model is verified against commonly used models, which use 2D plane‐strain FEs for the bulk material. Various numerical examples show that the multi‐layer beam model presented gives accurate results using significantly less degrees of freedom in comparison with standard models from the literature. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the use of adaptive refinement in isogeometric digitalimage correlation
Authors: Kleinendorst S. M. , Hoefnagels J. P. M. , Verhoosel C. V. , Ruybalid A. P.
Published: May 2015

A novel global digital image correlation method was developed using adaptive refinement of isogeometric shape functions. Non‐uniform rational B‐spline shape functions are used because of their flexibility and versatility, which enable them to capture a wide range of kinematics. The goal of this work was to explore the full potential of isogeometric shape functions for digital image correlation (DIC). This is reached by combining a global DIC method with an adaptive refinement algorithm: adaptive isogeometric GDIC. The shape functions are automatically adjusted to be able to describe the kinematics of the sought displacement field with an optimized number of degrees of freedom. This results in an accurate method without the need of making problem‐specific choices regarding the structure of the shape functions, which makes the method less user input dependent than regular global DIC methods, while keeping the number of degrees of freedom limited to realize optimum regularization of the ill‐posed DIC problem. The method's accuracy is demonstrated by a virtual experiment with a predefined, highly localized displacement field. Real experiments with a complex sample geometry demonstrate the effectiveness in practice. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stem cell transplantation before birth – a realistic option for treatment of osteogenesis imperfecta?
Authors: Westgren Magnus , Götherström Cecilia
Published: May 2015

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is characterized by severe bone deformities, growth retardation and bones that break easily, often from little or no apparent cause. OI is a genetic disorder primarily with defective type I collagen with a wide spectrum of clinical expression. In the more severe cases, it can be diagnosed before birth.

Transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) has the potential to improve the bone structure and stability, growth and fracture healing. Prenatal and postnatal cell transplantation has been investigated in preclinical and clinical studies of OI and suggests that this procedure is safe and has positive effects. Cell transplantation resulted in improved linear growth, mobility and reduced fracture incidence. However, the effect is transient and for this reason re‐transplantation may be needed.

So far there is limited experience in this area, and proper studies are required to accurately determine if MSC transplantation is of clinical benefit in the treatment of OI. In this review, we summarize what is currently known in this field. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Machine prepared thermoplastic polyurethanes of varying hard segment content: Morphology and its evolution in tensile tests
Authors: Stribeck Almut , Jokari‐Sheshdeh Farhad , Pöselt Elmar , Eling Berend , in't Veld Pieter J. , Goerigk Günter Johannes , Hoell Armin
Published: May 2015

Machine‐cast thermoplastic polyurethanes are strained and monitored by small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS). They are prepared from 4,4′‐methylene diphenyl diisocyanate, 1,4‐butane diol, and polytetrahydrofuran. Upon stretching hard domains are destroyed. Most stable are the domains of materials with a hard‐domain content (HSC) of 30%. Domain stability decreases with increasing HSC and crosslinking. Most materials show stability up to a strain 0.6. At higher strain, the apparent long period decreases for the materials with HSC = 30%. Correlated hard domains, the “strain probes” relax as others are destroyed. The fraction of relaxing probes and their ultimate relaxation decrease with increasing HSC. Chord distribution functions computed from the SAXS exhibit the same sequence of static long‐period bands. The band positions form a Fibonacci series, related to the underlying polyaddition process. This indicates a nearly quasicrystalline arrangement of stringed hard domains, identified as the strain probes of the discrete SAXS. At strains <0.6, the probes experience half of the macroscopic strain, which reflects hard‐domain rigidity. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys.2015,53, 1213–1223