bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intracellular protein and nucleic acid measured in eight cell types using deep‐ultraviolet mass mapping
Authors: Cheung Man C. , LaCroix Rebecca , McKenna Brian K. , Liu Ling , Winkelman James , Ehrlich Daniel J.
Published: March 2013

We present measurements by deep‐ultraviolet mass mapping of nucleic acid (NA) and protein for five commonly cultured and three primary cell types. The dry mass distribution at submicron resolution was determined on a single‐cell basis for 250–500 cells from each of these types. Since the method carries a direct reference to a spectrophotometric standard (molar extinction coefficient), we are able to calibrate the absolute weight distributions both on a cell‐to‐cell basis within each type and across types. We also provide a calibration in absolute mass units for fluorescence‐based measurements (flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy). As might be expected the cultured cell lines show a high concentration of nucleic acids in the nuclear compartment, much larger than the genomic 2C number even in the G1 stage. The whole‐cell nucleic‐acid/protein ratio was found to be a characteristic of cell lines that persists independent of cell cycle and, as a result, this ratio has some value for phenotyping. Primary chicken red blood cells (cRBC), often used as a cytometry standard, were determined to have a nuclear‐isolated nucleic acid content much closer to the genomic number than the cultured cell lines (cRBC: 3.00 pg total NA, 2.30 pg DNA, and 0.70 pg RNA). The individual blastomeres (n = 54) from mouse embryos at eight‐cell stage were measured and found to vary by more than a factor or two in total protein and nucleic acid content (0.8–2.3 ng total protein, 70–150 pg total NA). The ratio of nucleic acid to protein was more nearly constant for each blastomere from a particular embryo and this ratio was found to be an identifying characteristic that varies from embryo to embryo obtained from a single flushing of a mouse. © 2013 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Species‐time‐area and phylogenetic‐time‐area relationships in tropical tree communities
Authors: Swenson Nathan G. , Mi Xiangcheng , Kress W. John , Thompson Jill , Uriarte María , Zimmerman Jess K.
Published: March 2013

The species‐area relationship (SAR) has proven to be one of the few strong generalities in ecology. The temporal analog of the SAR, the species‐time relationship (STR), has received considerably less attention. Recent work primarily from the temperate zone has aimed to merge the SAR and the STR into a synthetic and unified species‐time‐area relationship (STAR) as originally envisioned by Preston (1960). Here we test this framework using two tropical tree communities and extend it by deriving a phylogenetic‐time‐area relationship (PTAR). The work finds some support for Preston's prediction that diversity‐time relationships, both species and phylogenetic, are sensitive to the spatial scale of the sampling. Contrary to the Preston's predictions we find a decoupling of diversity‐area and diversity‐time relationships in both forests as the time period used to quantify the diversity‐area relationship changes. In particular, diversity‐area and diversity‐time relationships are positively correlated using the initial census to quantify the diversity‐area relationship, but weakly or even negatively correlated when using the most recent census. Thus, diversity‐area relationships could forecast the temporal accumulation of biodiversity of the forests, but they failed to “back‐cast” the temporal accumulation of biodiversity suggesting a decoupling of space and time.
Turning‐on the Quenched Fluorescence of Azomethines through Structural Modifications
Authors: Barik Satyananda , Skene William G.
Published: March 2013

A series of fluorene azomethines were prepared to examine the effect of structural modification on the absolute fluorescence quantum yields (Φfl). The change in fluorescence occurring upon reversing the orientation of the azomethine bond, the number of fluorene units, and alkylation at the 9,9′‐positions of fluorene was examined. It was found that Φfl could be tailored with these structural modifications with 0.05 ≤ Φfl ≤ 0.45. The highest Φfl was measured for the trimer derived from 2,7‐diamino fluorene with each fluorene being alkylated at the 9,9′‐positions. The fluorescence quantum yields did not increase at 77 K, implying the absence of fluorescence quenching modes involving internal conversion. Fluorescence enhancement was also not observed upon protonating the imine with trifluoroacetic acid. This confirms that Waldon inversion and isomerization are not fluorescence deactivation modes. Additionally, no photoisomerization was observed either at room temperature or at 77 K when the fluorene derivatives were irradiated at 354 nm. In contrast, the Z photoisomer of a N‐benzylideneaniline analogue was spectroscopically detected both by absorbance and by 1H NMR spectroscopy.
Predicting the displacement of triple pendulum™ bearings in a full‐scale shaking experiment using a three‐dimensional element
Authors: Dao Nhan D. , Ryan Keri L. , Sato Eiji , Sasaki Tomohiro
Published: March 2013

The accuracy of a series spring model to predict the peak displacement and displacement history of Triple Pendulum™ (TP) bearings in a strongly shaken, full‐scale building is evaluated in this paper. The series spring model was implemented as a self‐contained three‐dimensional TP bearing element in OpenSees and is now available for general use. The TP bearing element contains the option for constant friction or a generalized friction model that accounts for the effect of instantaneous velocity and compression load on the friction coefficient. Comparison between numerical simulation and experimental data of a five‐story steel moment frame building shows that the peak displacement of isolation system can generally be predicted with confidence using a constant friction coefficient model. The friction coefficient model accounting for the effect of axial load and velocity leads to minor improvement over the constant friction coefficient models in some cases. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High biolability of ancient permafrost carbon upon thaw
Authors: Vonk Jorien E. , Mann Paul J. , Davydov Sergey , Davydova Anna , Spencer Robert G. M. , Schade John , Sobczak William V. , Zimov Nikita , Zimov Sergei , Bulygina Ekaterina , Eglinton Timothy I. , Holmes Robert M.
Published: March 2013

Ongoing climate warming in the Arctic will thaw permafrost and remobilize substantial terrestrial organic carbon (OC) pools. Around a quarter of northern permafrost OC resides in Siberian Yedoma deposits, the oldest form of permafrost carbon. However, our understanding of the degradation and fate of this ancient OC in coastal and fluvial environments still remains rudimentary. Here, we show that ancient dissolved OC (DOC, >21,000 14C years), the oldest DOC ever reported, is mobilized in stream waters draining Yedoma outcrops. Furthermore, this DOC is highly biolabile: 34 ± 0.8% was lost during a 14 day incubation under dark, oxygenated conditions at ambient river temperatures. Mixtures of Yedoma stream DOC with mainstem river and ocean waters, mimicking in situ mixing processes, also showed high DOC losses (14 days; 17 ± 0.8% to 33 ± 1.0%). This suggests that this exceptionally old DOC is among the most biolabile DOC in any previously reported contemporary river or stream in the Arctic.
Multiyear climate predictions using two initialization strategies
Authors: Hazeleger W. , Guemas V. , Wouters B. , Corti S. , Andreu‒Burillo I. , Doblas‒Reyes F. J. , Wyser K. , Caian M.
Published: March 2013

Multiyear climate predictions with two initialization strategies are systematically assessed in the EC‒Earth V2.3 climate model. In one ensemble, an estimate of the observed climate state is used to initialize the model. The other uses estimates of observed ocean and sea ice anomalies on top of the model climatology. The ensembles show similar spatial characteristics of drift related to the biases in control simulations. As expected, the drift is less with anomaly initialization. The full field initialization overshoots to a colder state which is related to cold biases in the tropics and North Atlantic, associated with oceanic processes. Despite different amplitude of the drift, both ensembles show similar skill in multiyear global temperature predictions, but regionally differences are found. On multiyear time scales, initialization with observations enhances both deterministic and probabilistic skill scores in the North Atlantic. The probabilistic verification shows skill over the European continent.
Framing Retention for Institutional Improvement: A 4 Ps Framework
Authors: Kalsbeek David H.
Published: March 2013

This chapter introduces a 4 Ps framework for student retention strategies—profile, progress, process, and promise. This framework provides a comprehensive approach to focusing retention research and strategies in ways that can improve institutional retention and completion rates.
Reframing Retention Strategy: A Focus on Profile
Authors: Kalsbeek David H. , Zucker Brian
Published: March 2013

The first “P” within a 4 Ps framework of student retention—profile—recognizes that an institution's retention and graduation rates are highly predictable, largely a function of the institutional and student profile, and are more a function of what the institution is rather than what it does.
Profile in Action: Linking Admission and Retention
Authors: Cortes Carla M.
Published: March 2013

This chapter provides illustrations of a profile‐oriented approach to retention through a discussion of test‐optional policies and use of non‐cognitive variables in the admission process.
Promise in Action: Examples of Institutional Success
Authors: Kuh George D.
Published: March 2013

This chapter highlights institutional examples of intentional approaches to ensuring that every student's experience reflects the promise of the institutional brand or mission as well as the distinct and differentiating nature of the institution's educational philosophy and purpose.
Engaging Faculty in Retention: Finding Traction through Accreditation
Authors: Chaden Caryn
Published: March 2013

This chapter considers how addressing the essential role of faculty in an institution's retention efforts can be enhanced by leveraging new accreditation requirements regarding retention and graduation outcomes.
The 4 Ps as a Guiding Perspective
Authors: Kalsbeek David H.
Published: March 2013

This chapter summarizes some of the themes that characterize a 4 Ps orientation to institutional retention strategy and offers an example of how one institution has used this approach to structure its retention efforts.
Characterization of the Dynamics of Hepatitis B Virus Resistance To Adefovir by Ultra-Deep Pyrosequencing
Authors: Rodriguez Christophe , Chevaliez Stéphane , Bensadoun Paul , Pawlotsky Jean-Michel
Published: March 2013

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) resistance to nucleoside/nucleotide analogs is frequent. Ultra-deep pyrosequencing (UDPS) is a powerful new tool that can detect minor viral variants and characterize complex quasispecies mixtures. We used UDPS to analyze the dynamics of adefovir-resistant HBV variants in patients with chronic HBV infection in whom adefovir resistance occurred during treatment. Amino acid substitutions known to confer resistance to adefovir were detected at baseline in most patients. The dynamics of adefovir-resistant variants were complex and differed among patients as a result of evolving differences in variant fitness. UDPS analysis revealed successive waves of selection of HBV populations with single and multiple amino acid substitutions. Adefovir-resistant variants were partially inhibited by lamivudine, but remained fit in its presence. Conclusion: Substitutions conferring HBV resistance to nucleoside/nucleotide analogs exist before treatment, and that the dynamics of adefovir-resistant populations are much more complex and heterogeneous than previously thought and involve thus far unknown amino acid substitutions. The UDPS-based approach described here is likely to have important implications for the assessment of antiviral drug resistance in research and clinical practice. (Hepatology 2013;53:890–901)
Platelet-Derived Growth Factor-D And Rho Gtpases Regulate Recruitment of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Cadamuro Massimiliano , Nardo Giorgia , Indraccolo Stefano , Dall'Olmo Luigi , Sambado Luisa , Moserle Lidia , Franceschet Irene , Colledan Michele , Massani Marco , Stecca Tommaso , Bassi Nicolò , Morton Stuart , Spirli Carlo , Fiorotto Romina , Fabris Luca , Strazzabosco Mario
Published: March 2013

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is characterized by an abundant stromal reaction. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are pivotal in tumor growth and invasiveness and represent a potential therapeutic target. To understand the mechanisms leading to CAF recruitment in CCA, we studied (1) expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in surgical CCA specimens and CCA cells, (2) lineage tracking of an enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)-expressing human male CCA cell line (EGI-1) after xenotransplantation into severe-combined-immunodeficient mice, (3) expression of platelet-derived growth factors (PDGFs) and their receptors in vivo and in vitro, (4) secretion of PDGFs by CCA cells, (5) the role of PDGF-D in fibroblast recruitment in vitro, and (6) downstream effectors of PDGF-D signaling. CCA cells expressed several EMT biomarkers, but not alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). Xenotransplanted CCA masses were surrounded and infiltrated by α-SMA-expressing CAFs, which were negative for EGFP and the human Y-probe, but positive for the murine Y-probe. CCA cells were strongly immunoreactive for PDGF-A and -D, whereas CAFs expressed PDGF receptor (PDGFR)β. PDGF-D, a PDGFRβ agonist, was exclusively secreted by cultured CCA cells. Fibroblast migration was potently induced by PDGF-D and CCA conditioned medium and was significantly inhibited by PDGFRβ blockade with Imatinib and by silencing PDGF-D expression in CCA cells. In fibroblasts, PDGF-D activated the Rac1 and Cdc42 Rho GTPases and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). Selective inhibition of Rho GTPases (particularly Rac1) and of JNK strongly reduced PDGF-D-induced fibroblast migration. Conclusion: CCA cells express several mesenchymal markers, but do not transdifferentiate into CAFs. Instead, CCA cells recruit CAFs by secreting PDGF-D, which stimulates fibroblast migration through PDGFRβ and Rho GTPase and JNK activation. Targeting tumor or stroma interactions with inhibitors of the PDGF-D pathway may offer a novel therapeutic approach. (Hepatology 2013;53:1042–1053)
Incidence and prevalence of hepatitis C in prisons and other closed settings: Results of a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Larney Sarah , Kopinski Hannah , Beckwith Curt G. , Zaller Nickolas D. , Jarlais Don Des , Hagan Holly , Rich Josiah D. , van den Bergh Brenda J. , Degenhardt Louisa
Published: March 2013

People detained in prisons and other closed settings are at elevated risk of infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV). We undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis with the aim of determining the rate of incident HCV infection and the prevalence of anti-HCV among detainees in closed settings. We systematically searched databases of peer-reviewed literature and widely distributed a call for unpublished data. We calculated summary estimates of incidence and prevalence among general population detainees and detainees with a history of injection drug use (IDU), and explored heterogeneity through stratification and meta-regression. The summary prevalence estimates were used to estimate the number of anti-HCV positive prisoners globally. HCV incidence among general detainees was 1.4 per 100 person-years (py; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.1, 2.7; k = 4), and 16.4 per 100 py (95% CI: 0.8, 32.1; k = 3) among detainees with a history of IDU. The summary prevalence estimate of anti-HCV in general detainees was 26% (95% CI: 23%, 29%; k = 93), and in detainees with a history of IDU, 64% (95% CI: 58%, 70%; k = 51). The regions of highest prevalence were Central Asia (38%; 95% CI 32%, 43%; k = 1) and Australasia (35%; 95% CI: 28%, 43%; k = 9). We estimate that 2.2 million (range: 1.4-2.9 million) detainees globally are anti-HCV positive, with the largest populations in North America (668,500; range: 553,500-784,000) and East and Southeast Asia (638,000; range: 332,000-970,000).

Conclusion

: HCV is a significant concern in detained populations, with one in four detainees anti-HCV-positive. Epidemiological data on the extent of HCV infection in detained populations is lacking in many countries. Greater attention towards prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of HCV infection among detained populations is urgently required. (Hepatology 2013;58:1215–1224)
Sorafenib in patients with refractory or recurrent multiple myeloma
Authors: Yordanova Anna , Hose Dirk , Neben Kai , Witzens‐Harig Mathias , Gütgemann Ines , Raab Marc‐Steffen , Moehler Thomas , Goldschmidt Hartmut , Schmidt‐Wolf Ingo GH
Published: March 2013

Sorafenib is a small molecular inhibitor of several tyrosine protein kinases, including vascular endothelial growth factor receptor, platelet‐derived growth factor receptor and rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma kinases, targeting signal transduction and angiogenic pathways. It is approved for the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma and hepatocellular carcinoma. The objectives of this prospective phase II trial were to assess the activity and tolerability of sorafenib in patients with recurrent or refractory myeloma. In total, 11 patients were enrolled. Patients received 2 × 200 mg of sorafenib orally twice daily until completing 13 full cycles or disease progression. Of the side effects, 8.8% grade 3 and 1.1% grade 4 occurred. Sorafenib treatment was effective in two patients who achieved a partial response and a continuous stable disease with duration of 24.4 months and 6.9 month, respectively. Further clinical investigations are recommended to investigate sorafenib single agent activity in myeloma subgroups with ras‐/BRAF‐/vascular endothelial growth factor receptor pathway activation and combination therapy approaches. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sclerostin and bone strength in women in their 10th decade of life
Authors: Thorson Sara , Prasad Tanushree , Sheu Yahtyng , Danielson Michelle E , Arasu Aarthi , Cummings Steven R , Cauley Jane A
Published: March 2013

Sclerostin is a potent inhibitor of bone formation but has been shown to correlate positively with areal bone mineral density (aBMD). Little is known about its relationship to parameters of bone strength and volumetric BMD (vBMD) as measured by peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT). We measured both serum sclerostin and parameters of tibial bone size and strength by pQCT to characterize this relationship. Our study population consisted of 223 white and 35 African American women (mean age 87 years) from the Study of Osteoporotic Fractures (SOF) cohort, who had usable pQCT scans of the tibia at sites 4% (T4%), 33% (T33%), and 66% (T66%) from the ankle. Analysis of covariance was used to test for differences in age-adjusted means of aBMD, pQCT variables, and serum biomarkers across sclerostin quartiles. African American women had significantly lower median sclerostin (34.3 pmol/L) than white women (48.5 pmol/L) (p = 0.05). Women in the highest sclerostin quartile had 7% to 14.5% higher hip aBMD and pQCT parameters of vBMD and bone size than those in the lowest quartile in multivariate models adjusting for age, race, weight, height, and diabetes status. The association of sclerostin with parameters of bone strength differed dramatically between T33% and T66% sites. At T66%, women in the highest sclerostin quartile had pQCT strength parameters 9.4% to 15.3% greater than the lowest quartile, whereas no trend was found for the T33% site. Our results suggest paradoxical associations between circulating sclerostin and bone size, density, and strength.
Soybean peroxidase trapped in product precipitate during phenol polymerization retains activity and may be recycled
Authors: Feng Wei , Taylor Keith E. , Biswas Nihar , Bewtra Jatinder K.
Published: March 2013

BACKGROUND

Studies with peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.7) have demonstrated that phenolic precipitate adsorbs free enzyme, inactivating it. The end‐product inactivation model has been proposed to explain the effect. Additives, such as polyethylene glycol and Triton X‐100, were reported to effectively extend enzyme lifetime by preventing the adsorption.

RESULTS

It was found that soybean peroxidase (SBP, EC 1.11.1.7) trapped in precipitate during phenol polymerization retains activity. Contrary to the end‐product inactivation model, recycling precipitate effectively utilized the active SBP. The minimum SBP concentration required for the subsequent batch reaction removal of 1 mmol L‐1 phenol from aqueous solution was reduced from 1.2 to 0.5 U mL‐1. SBP adsorption on the precipitate was proven to be reversible by the addition of Triton X‐100. Thus, a new explanation of SBP fate during the reaction is suggested: SBP is immobilized in situ in an active form with reduction of specific activity rather than inactivation. The adsorption is characterized by a Langmuir isotherm.

CONCLUSIONS

The phenolic precipitate immobilizes SBP in an active form, consistent with the Langmuir isotherm model. Recycling the precipitate improves the enzyme economy in phenol removal. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Novel bioreactor for resolution of (R,S)‐1‐phenylethanol using the functional conducting polymer and ionic liquid with excellent catalytic activity and stability
Authors: Li Ming , Shan Haixia , Zhou Linting , Yin Yuanyuan , Li Zaijun
Published: March 2013

Background

Bioreactors are widely used in the chemical, food and medical industries. However, enzyme immobilization in the bioreactor often results in the loss of activity and stability to varying degrees. To resolve the problem, a new functional conducting polymer monomer, 2,5‐di(2‐thienyl)‐1H‐pyrrole‐1‐(p‐phenylacetic acid) (DPP), was designed, synthesized and electrodeposited on copper net to form ultrathin poly(DPP) film containing free carbonyl groups. Then, pseudomonas cepacia lipase was covalently coated on the film with 1‐ethyl‐3‐(3‐dimethyl‐aminopropyl)‐carbodiimide /N‐hydroxy‐succinimide as activator, and 1,3‐di(isobutyl)‐imidazolium hexafluorophosphate ionic liquid was finally coated on the surface of the film. In this study, an as‐prepared bioreactor was employed for the resolution of (R,S)‐1‐phenylethanol to investigate catalytic characterization of the enzyme immoblized on the bioreactor.

Results

The enzyme immobilized on the bioreactor offers high activity, reactivity and stability. Under optimal conditions, initial reaction rate, the conversion of (R,S)‐1‐phenylethanol and enantiomeric excess of (R)‐1‐phenylethyl acetate was 1.76 U mg‐1, 47.4% and 99%, respectively. Also, the stability of the lipase immobilized on the bioreactor was 5.1‐fold that of the native lipase in hexane. The lipase immobilized on the bioreactor was recycled 10 times without substantial diminution in activity.

Conclusion

The functional conducting polymer combined with the ionic liquid for the enzyme immoblization provided good enzyme activity and stability. It is also promising for both the construction of bioreactors and industrialized continuous production. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Trigeminal ganglion morphology in human fetus
Authors: Wu Li , Zhang Haitao , Liao Libin , Dadihan Tuerxunjiang , Wang Xiaolin , Kerem Gulnisa
Published: March 2013

The morphology of the trigeminal ganglion in human fetus was investigated by means of the tract‐tracing method using the lipophilic dye DiI‐C18‐(3) (1,1′‐double octadecane 3,3,3′3′‐tetramethyl indole carbonyl cyanine‐perchlorate), hematoxylin–eosin (HE) stain, and three‐dimensional computer reconstruction models. The trigeminal ganglion was flat in the dorsoventral direction, and DiI staining revealed that the trigeminal ganglion cells were somatotopically distributed in the ganglion in a way that reflected the mediolateral order of the three branches. Ganglion cells of the ophthalmic nerve were distributed in the anteromedial part of the trigeminal ganglion, those of the mandibular nerve were in the posterolateral part, and those of the maxillary nerve were localized in the intermediate part. DiI labeled both ganglion cells and nerve fibers in the trigeminal ganglion; the ganglion cells varied in size and appeared as round‐ or oval‐shaped, the neurites connected the cell soma, and some bipolar neurons were also observed. The number of embryonic trigeminal ganglion cells did not significantly change with gestational age, but the cell diameter, area, and perimeter significantly increased. The motor root leaves the pons, runs along the sensory root, passes the ventral surface of the ganglion, and finally runs together with the mandibular nerve. The findings reported here elucidate the morphology, development, and somatotopic organization of the trigeminal ganglion and reveal the trigeminal nerve motor root pathway along the trigeminal ganglion and mandibular nerve in the human fetus. Microsc. Res. Tech. 76:598–605, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Biochar of animal origin: a sustainable solution to the global problem of high‐grade rock phosphate scarcity?
Authors: Vassilev Nikolay , Martos Eva , Mendes Gilberto , Martos Vanessa , Vassileva Maria
Published: March 2013

Phosphorus (P) is an essential element for all living organisms. However, in soil–plant systems, this nutrient is the most limiting, leading to frequent applications of soluble P fertilisers. Their excessive use provokes alterations in the natural P cycle, soil biodiversity and ecological equilibrium and is the main reason for the eutrophication of water, with consequences on food safety. Biotechnology offers a number of sustainable solutions that can mitigate these problems by using various waste materials as a source of P and, on the other hand, their solubilisation by selected micro‐organisms. This review present results on the solubilisation of animal bone char with high phosphate content by micro‐organisms to produce organic acids such as lactic acid, citric acid and itaconic acid. All experiments were performed under conditions of liquid submerged and solid state fermentation processes. Freely suspended and immobilised cells of the corresponding microbial cultures were employed using substrates characterised by low cost and abundance. Other alternative technologies are discussed as well in order to stimulate further studies in this field, bearing in mind the progressive increase in P fertiliser prices based on high global P consumption and the scarcity of rock phosphate reserves. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Characterization of protoberberine alkaloids in Coptidis Rhizoma (Huanglian) by HPLC with ESI‐MS/MS
Authors: Ren Lingling , Xue Xingya , Liang Xinmiao
Published: March 2013

This study aims to qualitatively analyze protoberberine alkaloids in crude extract of Coptidis Rhizoma using HPLC with ESI‐MS/MS. Possible specific molecular weights of protoberberine alkaloids were firstly deduced according to literatures and were adopted to screen the alkaloids in the HPLC with ESI‐MS of crude extract of Coptidis Rhizoma. As a result, 21 protoberberine alkaloids were found, including compounds of very low concentration and compounds coeluted in one peak. Among these, two compounds were positively identified and verified by comparison with standards. Ten of these compounds were first reported in this study for Coptidis Rhizoma. In addition, chromatographic retention parameters a and c of all compounds were obtained using their retention times under five gradient conditions and were applied to confirm the deduction about the structures of protoberberine alkaloids by tandem mass data.
Application of hollow‐fiber‐assisted liquid‐phase microextraction to identify avermectins in stream water using MS/MS
Authors: Park Jong‐Hyouk , Abd El‐Aty A. M. , Rahman Md. Musfiqur , Choi Jeong‐Heui , Shim Jae‐Han
Published: March 2013

In this study, a hollow‐fiber‐assisted liquid‐phase microextraction (HF‐LPME) technique coupled with LC–MS/MS is described to detect avermectins (abamectin, ivermectin, moxidectin, and doramectin) in stream water. An Accurel polypropylene membrane was used as the hollow fiber, and dihexyl ether was used as the extraction solvent. The optimal extraction conditions for HF‐LPME were 4 cm fiber length, 45 min extraction time, 200rpm, and 1 min desorption time with methanol as the desorption solvent. The linear range was 0.15–100 ng/mL (r2 = 0.994–0.998), and the LOD and LOQ were 0.15 and 0.5 ng/mL, respectively. Recovery rates were determined at 1, 5, and 10 ng/mL, and the results were in the range of 80.1 to 93.7%. The intraday and interday repeatability ranged from 2.8 to 8.0% and from 6.1 to 13.3%, respectively. The HF‐LPME method developed was applied to detect avermectins in stream water samples collected from 14 different sites near livestock farms located in Honam area, Republic of Korea; however, none of the samples contained avermectin residues. HF‐LPME combined with a LC–MS/MS method was successfully applied for an environmentally friendly identification of avermectins in water samples. HF‐LPME represents an attractive approach for conventional liquid–liquid extraction.
Traumatic Stress Symptomatology After Child Maltreatment and Single Traumatic Events: Different Profiles
Authors: Jonkman Caroline S. , Verlinden Eva , Bolle Eva A. , Boer Frits , Lindauer Ramón J. L.
Published: March 2013

The sequelae of child maltreatment tend to extend current posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. This study examined this assumption, hypothesizing that (a) PTSD and trauma‐related symptoms are more severe after single trauma than after child maltreatment; (b) symptoms unrelated to trauma are more severe after child maltreatment than after single trauma; and (c) a comorbid association of clinical PTSD with trauma‐related symptoms is more prevalent after single trauma, whereas a comorbid association of clinical PTSD with trauma unrelated symptoms is more prevalent after child maltreatment. The Trauma Symptom Checklist for Children (TSCC) assessed PTSD and trauma‐related symptoms in 256 children (83 children exposed to single trauma, 173 to child maltreatment). The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) assessed trauma‐unrelated symptoms. Single‐trauma children reported significantly more severe PTSD and trauma‐related symptoms. Significantly more severe trauma unrelated symptoms were reported after child maltreatment. A significant relation was found between clinical PTSD and more severe trauma‐related symptoms in both samples. Likelihood of children meeting PTSD symptoms after trauma seems to decrease when traumatization becomes more complex. Findings support our assumption that symptomatology of maltreated children extends current PTSD symptoms.
Demonstration of transoral surgery in cadaveric specimens with the medrobotics flex system
Authors: Johnson Paul J. , Serrano Carlos M. Rivera , Castro Michael , Kuenzler Richard , Choset Howie , Tully Stephen , Duvvuri Umamaheswar
Published: March 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Using human cadavers, we investigated the feasibility of using a new robotic platform, the Medrobotics Flex System, for laryngeal access and flexible tool delivery to facilitate the performance of pharyngolaryngeal procedures without laryngeal suspension. Our initial trials specifically assess the utility of this experimental robotic system for epiglottectomy and base of tongue resection.

Study Design

Feasibility; Level of evidence: NA.

Methods

Using standard mouth retractors, the Flex™robot was driven via the physician controller to the supraglottic region. Non‐crossing, flexible endoscopic tools were inserted through the robot's external tool channels to retract, cauterize, and remove tissue in each procedure type. Mock surgical procedures were performed on the laryngopharyngeal complex including epiglottectomy, base of tongue resection, and vocal cord excision. Time‐to‐tissue exposure was noted for each procedure. Each epiglottectomy was timed to determine operation duration.

Results

Epiglottectomy, base of tongue resection, and vocal cord excision were successfully performed without suspension laryngoscopy. Individual surgeons improved the procedure time significantly (P = 0.03) between first and second attempts. Epiglottectomies were performed in an average time of 42 minutes (N = 5, σ = 28 minutes).

Conclusions

The Medrobotics Flex System demonstrates great potential as a surgical tool in head and neck oncology. Compared to other surgical robots, the Flex System offers facilitated access, vision, and triangulation of flexible tools for procedures in the endolarynx.

Level of Evidence

N/A
G protein‐coupled estrogen receptor 1 expression in human vocal fold
Authors: Wu Daquan , Jiang Jack J. , Fang Rui , Swinarski Krzysztof , Cui Xidong
Published: March 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Besides the classical sexual receptors, the expression of a recently clarified transmembrane G protein‐coupled receptor (GPR30) has not been reported in the vocal fold so far. We aimed to study whether GPR30 is expressed in the human vocal fold.

Study Design:

Experimental study using pathologic human vocal fold tissues.

Methods:

Reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the GPR30 expression in a total of 83 vocal fold samples.

Results:

A total of 66% of the specimens tested were GPR30 mRNA positive, and 54% of the sections were revealed to be GPR30 immunostaining positive in the plasma membrane as well as the nucleus in the epithelial cells.

Conclusions:

The GPR30 expression both in mRNA and protein level could be detected in the human vocal fold.
Transnasal endoscopic steroid injection: A practical and effective alternative treatment for benign vocal fold disorders
Authors: Wang Chi‐Te , Lai Mei‐Shu , Liao Li‐Jen , Lo Wu‐Chia , Cheng Po‐Wen
Published: March 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Emerging literature has documented the effectiveness of intralesional steroid injection as an alternative treatment for benign vocal fold disorders. However, clinical application is frequently limited by the associated technical demands for adequate anesthesia and precise needle placement. This study investigated the applicability and effectiveness of the more practical and less technically demanding method of transnasal endoscopic steroid injection (TESI).

Study Design

Prospective case series.

Methods

This study recruited 30 patients with vocal nodules and polyps. Dexamethasone was injected into the Reinke's space under local anesthesia via the operating channel of a transnasal flexible laryngoscope in an office setting. Treatment outcome were measured before, 1 month after, and 3 months after the injection, using videolaryngostroboscopy (VLS), maximal phonation time (MPT), 10‐item voice handicap index (VHI‐10), acoustic analysis, and perceptual evaluation.

Results

VLS examinations at 3 months post‐treatment demonstrated that vocal lesions of 10 and 19 patients were resolved or reduced, respectively. Objective measurements showed increased MPT and decreased VHI‐10 (P < .05 and P < .01, respectively). Acoustic analysis revealed significant decrease in jitter and shimmer (P < .05). Perceptual evaluation using the GRB (grade, roughness, breathiness) scale also showed improved voice quality (P < .01). Treatment outcomes were similar between vocal nodules and polyps (P > .05). Mild vocal hematoma occurred in three patients following TESI, but resolved spontaneously within 1 month.

Conclusions

TESI is a simple and practical office‐based treatment modality for benign vocal fold lesions, suitable for most otolaryngologists. Treatment outcomes showed significant subjective and objective improvements that were comparable to the results of other injection procedures reported in the literature.

Level of Evidence

4.
Nature, Severity and Persistence of Geomorphological Damage Caused by Armed Conflict
Authors: Kiernan K.
Published: March 2013

Proxy conflicts involving local revolutionaries and external forces during the Cold War years caused major damage to the physical landscapes and soils of South East Asia. Using a series of small case studies, this paper assesses some of these impacts of war on the geodiversity of the Lao PDR, and upon some other environmental values and ecosystem services that are dependent upon physical landforms that host or facilitate them. Satellite imagery and ground‐based surveys indicate that even after nearly four decades, bomb craters remain discernible at densities that commonly exceed 200/km2 and in some cases exceed 800/km2. This landform damage also implies major loss of soil capital, full recovery from which is likely to take millennia. Very significant damage was also caused by military engineering projects. The results of this study confirm the severe, widespread and long‐term nature of the environmental damage that can be inflicted by war. They also demonstrate the potential utility of forensic geomorphology as a tool in the investigation of potential environmental war crimes. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pterostilbene, a bioactive component of blueberries, suppresses the generation of breast cancer stem cells within tumor microenvironment and metastasis via modulating NF‐κB/microRNA 448 circuit
Authors: Mak Ka‐Kit , Wu Alexander T. H. , Lee Wei‐Hwa , Chang Tung‐Cheng , Chiou Jeng‐Fong , Wang Liang‐Shun , Wu Chih‐Hsiung , Huang Chi‐Ying F. , Shieh Yi‐Shing , Chao Tsu‐Yi , Ho Chi‐Tang , Yen Gow‐Chin , Yeh Chi‐Tai
Published: March 2013

Scope

Tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) have been shown to promote metastasis and malignancy. Pterostilbene, a natural stilbene isolated from blueberries, has been suggested for anti‐cancer effects. Here, we explored the potential cancer stem cells (CSCs)/TAM modulating effects of pterostilbene in breast cancer.

Methods and results

Using flowcytometric and Boyden chamber assay, we showed MCF7 and MDA‐MB‐231 cells cocultured with M2 TAMs exhibited increased percentage of CD44+/CD24− CSC population and migratory/invasive abilities. RT‐PCR results showed that CD44+/CD24− cells expressed an increased level of HIF‐1α, β‐catenin, Twist1, and NF‐κB and enhanced tumor sphere forming ability. Additionally, pterostilbene treatment dose dependently overcame M2 TAM‐induced enrichment of CSCs and metastatic potential of breast cancer cells. Mechanistically, pterostilbene suppressed NFκB, Twist1, vimentin, and increased E‐cadherin expression. Using siRNA technique, we demonstrated that pterostilbene‐mediated NFκB downregulation was correlated to an increased amount of microRNA 448. Finally, pterostilbene‐mediated suppression in tumorigenesis and metastasis was validated by noninvasive bioluminescence in mice bearing M2 TAM cocultured MDA‐MB‐231 tumor.

Conclusion

Pterostilbene effectively suppresses the generation of CSCs and metastatic potential under the influence of M2 TAMs via modulating EMT associated signaling pathways, specifically NF‐κB/miR488 circuit. Thus, pterostilbene could be an ideal anti‐CSC agent in clinical settings.
The inhibitory effect of milk on the absorption of dietary phenolic acids and the change in human plasma antioxidant capacity through a mechanism involving both milk proteins and fats
Authors: Zhang Hao , Jiang Lu , Guo Huiyuan , Sun Jing , Liu Xianting , Liu Ruihai , Ding Qingbo , Ren Fazheng
Published: March 2013

Scope

We assessed the effects of milk proteins and fats, alone and in combination, on the absorption of phenolic acids and the change in plasma antioxidant capacity after jujube juice intake in humans.

Methods and results

Twenty volunteers received the following four treatments each in a 4 × 4 Latin square design with a minimum 1 week interval: 200 mL of jujube juice plus 200 mL of (1) water; (2) whole milk; (3) skimmed milk; or (4) milk fat. The results showed that skimmed milk extended the time to reach maximum increase of plasma phenolic acids concentrations and plasma antioxidant capacity. However, neither the skimmed milk nor the milk fat had a significant effect on the absorption of phenolic acids. In contrast, whole milk significantly reduced the absorption of phenolic acids and the increase in plasma antioxidant capacity (p < 0.05). In vitro results suggested the formation of complexes during digestion that involved milk proteins, milk fats, and phenolic acids, which were responsible for the inhibitory effect of whole milk.

Conclusion

Milk proteins and fats together, but not alone, are responsible for the inhibitory effect of milk on the absorption of phenolic acids and the change in plasma antioxidant capacity.
High‐resolution 3D radial bSSFP with IDEAL
Authors: Moran Catherine J. , Brodsky Ethan K. , Bancroft Leah Henze , Reeder Scott B. , Yu Huanzhou , Kijowski Richard , Engel Dorothee , Block Walter F.
Published: March 2013

Radial trajectories facilitate high‐resolution balanced steady state free precession (bSSFP) because the efficient gradients provide more time to extend the trajectory in k‐space. A number of radial bSSFP methods that support fat–water separation have been developed; however, most of these methods require an environment with limited B0 inhomogeneity. In this work, high‐resolution bSSFP with fat–water separation is achieved in more challenging B0 environments by combining a 3D radial trajectory with the IDEAL chemical species separation method. A method to maintain very high resolution within the timing constraints of bSSFP and IDEAL is described using a dual‐pass pulse sequence. The sampling of a unique set of radial lines at each echo time is investigated as a means to circumvent the longer scan time that IDEAL incurs as a multiecho acquisition. The manifestation of undersampling artifacts in this trajectory and their effect on chemical species separation are investigated in comparison to the case in which each echo samples the same set of radial lines. This new bSSFP method achieves 0.63 mm isotropic resolution in a 5‐min scan and is demonstrated in difficult in vivo imaging environments, including the breast and a knee with ACL reconstruction hardware at 1.5 T. Magn Reson Med 71:95–104, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Simultaneous spatial and spectral selectivity by spatiotemporal encoding
Authors: Dumez Jean‐Nicolas , Schmidt Rita , Frydman Lucio
Published: March 2013

Purpose

To introduce a method that provides simultaneous spatial and spectral selectivity, whose implementation is less demanding than—and quality comparable to—conventional 2D spectral‐spatial counterparts.

Theory

Spatiotemporal encoding concepts lead to a spatially selective, chemical‐shift‐dependent echo, with simultaneous dephasing of all other off‐resonant species. The approach only requires applying a pair of suitable radiofrequency‐swept pulses, and allows arbitrary shaping of the spatial profiles.

Methods

Based on arguments derived for chirp pulses operating in the sequential‐sweep approximation, quadratic‐phase SLR excitation and refocusing waveforms were designed and used to collect 2D slice‐ and shift‐selective images on a 7 T microimaging system (phantoms). The same strategy was used to obtain multi‐slice echo‐planar and spin‐echo images of breast on human volunteers in a 3 T scanner.

Results

The method managed to deliver excellent shift‐selective multi‐slice images in phantoms and human volunteers. Simultaneous water and fat images were also collected in a single, interleaved acquisition mode on both platforms, using straightforward sequence and reconstruction modifications of the basic scheme.

Conclusion

A new way to achieve chemical shift selectivity with high quality spatial profiling is achieved, without the usual requirements for playing out fast oscillating gradients in conjunction with carefully timed radiofrequency pulses. Magn Reson Med 71:746–755, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Goal‐oriented adaptive refinement for phase field modeling with finite elements
Authors: Mahnken R.
Published: March 2013

Phase field modeling is very often performed with the finite‐difference method for equally spaced grids. Typically its solutions are highly non‐homogenous; and, therefore, non‐equally spaced grids with dense meshes at interfaces between different phases and coarse meshes in homogenous regions would be more advantageous with respect to both, efficiency and reliability of the numerical solutions. To this end, in the present work, an adaptive strategy with finite elements for phase field modeling is adopted, where the time step and the grid size are selected on the basis of goal‐oriented error estimation. In order to account for nonlinearity of the variational equations, we introduce a secant form for the dual problem, which for practical purposes is approximated by a tangent form. In a numerical example, we investigate transformation and retransformation for a two‐phase system in a square region subjected to thermal loading. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Validation of the Dutch version of the transplant effects questionnaire in liver transplant recipients
Authors: Annema Coby , Roodbol Petrie F. , Stewart Roy E. , Ranchor Adelita V.
Published: March 2013

Little is known about the extent to which transplant recipients face emotional problems with the receipt of a transplanted organ. The Transplant Effects Questionnaire (TxEQ) enables the quantification of these problems. This study evaluates the psychometric properties of the Dutch translation of the TxEQ (TxEQ‐NL) in a group of liver transplant recipients. Confirmatory factor analyses of the TxEQ‐NL revealed an adequate fit with the original version. However, four items showed factor loadings <.40. Internal consistency was acceptable (.66–.79). The small correlations between the TxEQ‐NL and generic measures of psychological functioning indicated that the constructs measured are related but distinguishable. Therefore, the TxEQ‐NL adds a new dimension to the measurement of psychological functioning of transplant recipients. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 36:203–215, 2013
Ludic Content in Multisensory Stimulation Environments: An Exploratory Study about Practice in Portugal
Authors: Castelhano Nuno , Silva Fabiana , Rezende Márcia , Roque Licínio , Magalhães Lívia
Published: March 2013

This article aims to document the use of multisensory stimulation environments and its related perceptions, concerning ludic content, play and the computer‐mediated ludic activity, from the perspective of professionals organizing and delivering therapeutic activities in these spaces with children with developmental disabilities, in Portugal. Face‐to‐face open interviews with 12 professionals working in multisensory stimulation environments, selected by convenience criteria, were individually recorded, transcribed and submitted to content analysis. Three main themes emerged from the data: multisensory stimulation environments offer multiple possibilities for intervention, play is part of the intervention in multisensory environments and the computer‐mediated ludic experience is perceived as useful for intervention. Data suggest that multisensory stimulation environments are used as versatile spaces, both considered and explored by the interviewed professionals in its ludic potential. This fact can renew the interest in multisensory environments, in particular for the area of play in Occupational Therapy, in which the use of the computer‐mediated ludic experience is a recognized possibility. Limitations of this study are associated to the level of representativeness of the interviews in relation to the diverse universe of professionals using multisensory environments. The method for collecting data is also highly sensitive to the influence of the interviewer. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.