bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Clustered Fruiting and High-yielding Variety in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) through Applied Plant Breeding
Authors: Pandya M. M. , Acharya R. R. , Patel N. A. , Kathiria K. B. , Bhanvadia A. S. , Gohil D. P. , Patel J. N. , Joshi V. I.
Published: July 2024

In brinjal, consumer preference hinges on multifaceted criteria encompassing nutritional content and culinary attributes, while farmers prioritize factors such as yield potential. In response to this dual demand spectrum, the cultivar "Anand Doli" was meticulously developed, and tailored to excel in the unique agro-climatic conditions prevalent in middle Gujarat. Anand Doli, emerged from the controlled crossbreeding program involving Doli 5 x GOB 1 utilizing the pedigree method of plant breeding at the Main Vegetable Research Station of Anand Agricultural University, Anand, spanning the years 2017 to 2021. Anand Doli showcased a 44.70, 38.82, 17.72, 26.28, 40.74, and 40.20% higher fruit yield compared to controls GOB 1, GBL 1, GJB 2, GJLB 4, Doli 5, and Punjab Sadabahar, respectively. Fruits of this variety have club-shaped with a large pistil scar diameter and dark pink skin upon harvest. The calyx has strong creasing, and the fruit grows in clusters. This variety presents a promising option for middle Gujarat, offering improved yields and market preference.
Diagnostic Value of Fiberoptic Bronchoscopy in Non-resolving Pneumonia: Case Series and Implications
Authors: Nakarani Rushita D. , Chopra R.K.
Published: July 2024

Non-resolving or slowly resolving pneumonia presents a significant diagnostic challenge, characterized by persistent radiographic abnormalities despite appropriate antibiotic therapy. This study explores the pivotal role of Fiberoptic Bronchoscopy (FOB) in diagnosing and managing non-resolving pneumonia. Through detailed case presentations, the study illustrates how FOB facilitates precise sampling and identification of underlying causes such as malignancies, infections, and other pulmonary conditions. FOB's ability to provide cytological, microbiological, and pathological insights proves essential in guiding targeted treatment strategies, ultimately improving patient outcomes. The cases discussed underscore the importance of FOB in resolving diagnostic uncertainties, particularly in complex clinical scenarios where standard treatments fail.
Potential Role of Glucagon-like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) Receptor Agonist in the Treatment of Bulimia Nervosa
Authors: Harry Nkechinyere M. , Anona Kenechukwu , Obitulata-Ugwu Vivien O. , Kuye Olubukola Anike , Arubuolawe Oluwatosin , Folorunsho Ibrahim L. , Busari Adeniyi Kayode , Ibeneme Chidalu , Diala Amarachukwu , Afolabi Victory , Anugwom Gibson O.
Published: July 2024

Background: Bulimia nervosa (BN) is a severe eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, fasting, or excessive exercise. Current treatment strategies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and pharmacotherapy, have limitations, with many patients not responding adequately and experiencing high relapse rates. GLP-1 receptor agonists, initially developed for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and chronic weight management, have shown potential in regulating appetite and modifying behavior, suggesting a possible role in treating BN.
Objective: This review aims to assess the current evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of GLP-1 receptor agonists, particularly Semaglutide, in the treatment of bulimia nervosa.
Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar, focusing on articles published between 2014 and 2024. Studies included were clinical trials, case reports, and reviews addressing the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists in BN. The search terms included "Bulimia Nervosa," "Semaglutide," "GLP-1 receptor agonists," and related terms. After screening and removing duplicates, five relevant articles were included in the qualitative synthesis.
Results: The included studies demonstrated that GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Semaglutide, liraglutide, and dulaglutide, effectively reduced binge eating episodes and body weight in patients with BN. In a notable case report, a patient with long-standing BN experienced complete resolution of symptoms within two weeks of starting liraglutide, sustained over five years. Retrospective cohort and open-label studies also showed significant reductions in binge eating severity with GLP-1 receptor agonists compared to other anti-obesity medications. Additionally, preclinical studies suggested these agents' potential in modulating appetite and reward pathways in the brain.
Conclusion: The evidence indicates that GLP-1 receptor agonists may be a promising alternative pharmacotherapy for bulimia nervosa, addressing both appetite regulation and behavioral aspects of the disorder. However, the current paucity of large-scale, randomized controlled trials necessitates further research to confirm these findings and establish the efficacy, safety, and optimal dosing of GLP-1 receptor agonists in the treatment of BN. The favorable psychiatric side effect profile and potential for improved patient adherence highlight the need for continued exploration of these agents in clinical practice.
Silicon Quantum Dots for Biological Applications
Authors: Chinnathambi Shanmugavel , Chen Song , Ganesan Singaravelu , Hanagata Nobutaka
Published: August 2013

Semiconductor nanoparticles (or quantum dots, QDs) exhibit unique optical and electronic properties such as size‐controlled fluorescence, high quantum yields, and stability against photobleaching. These properties allow QDs to be used as optical labels for multiplexed imaging and in drug delivery detection systems. Luminescent silicon QDs and surface‐modified silicon QDs have also been developed as potential minimally toxic fluorescent probes for bioapplications. Silicon, a well‐known power electronic semiconductor material, is considered an extremely biocompatible material, in particular with respect to blood. This review article summarizes existing knowledge related to and recent research progress made in the methods for synthesizing silicon QDs, as well as their optical properties and surface‐modification processes. In addition, drug delivery systems and in vitro and in vivo imaging applications that use silicon QDs are also discussed.
Convergent/Divergent Synthesis of a Linker‐Varied Series of Dyes for Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells Based on the D35 Donor
Authors: Gabrielsson Erik , Ellis Hanna , Feldt Sandra , Tian Haining , Boschloo Gerrit , Hagfeldt Anders , Sun Licheng
Published: August 2013

A series of four new dyes, based on the D35 type donor moiety with varied linker units, is synthesized using a facile convergent/divergent method, enabled by an improved synthesis of the D35 donor. The dyes are evaluated in dye sensitized solar cells with Co(II/III)(bpy)3‐based electrolytes. By extending the linker fragment, higher photocurrents and solar energy conversion efficiencies are achieved. It is also found that the linker unit plays a crucial role in maintaining a high open‐circuit photovoltage. Based on the photovoltaic performance it is concluded that the hexylthiophene unit is the most suitable for this purpose, as it allows further enhancement of the already high open‐circuit voltage of D35 to 0.92 V. The best dye in this series reaches an efficiency of 6.8%.
Neutrino masses
Authors: Weinheimer Christian , Zuber Kai
Published: August 2013

The various experiments on neutrino oscillation evidence that neutrinos have indeed non‐zero masses but cannot provide the absolute neutrino mass scale. This scale of neutrino masses is very important for understanding the evolution and the structure formation of the universe as well as for nuclear and particle physics beyond the present Standard Model. Complementary to deducing constraints on the sum of all neutrino masses from cosmological observations, two different methods to determine the neutrino mass scale in the laboratory are pursued: the search for neutrinoless double β‐decay and the direct neutrino mass search by investigating single β‐decays or electron captures. The former method is not only sensitive to neutrino masses but also probes the Majorana character of neutrinos and thus lepton number violation with high sensitivity. Currently quite a few experiments using different techniques are being constructed, commissioned, or are even running, which aim for a sensitivity on the neutrino mass of (100) meV. The principal methods and these experiments are discussed in this short review.
Intestinal colonization: How key microbial players become established in this dynamic process
Authors: El Aidy Sahar , Van den Abbeele Pieter , Van de Wiele Tom , Louis Petra , Kleerebezem Michiel
Published: August 2013

In this review, we provide an overview of the dynamic changes within the microbiota and its metabolites that are implicated in establishing and maintaining gastrointestinal homeostasis during various stages of microbial colonization. The gradual conversion of the gut microbiota toward a mutualistic microbial community involves replacement of pioneer gut colonizers with bacterial taxa that are characteristic for the adult gut. An important microbial signature of homeostasis in the adult gut is the prevalence and activity of a diverse spectrum of bacterial species that produce beneficial metabolites through metabolic interactions between microbial groups. Deciphering these microbial signatures and their metabolites that govern short and long‐term equilibrium, as well as imbalances in host‐microbial relationships, may provide novel diagnostic tools and/or therapeutic targets for specific disorders associated with intestinal dysbiosis and loss of homeostasis.
Site‐targeted non‐viral gene delivery by direct DNA injection into the pancreatic parenchyma and subsequent in vivo electroporation in mice
Authors: Sato Masahiro , Inada Emi , Saitoh Issei , Ohtsuka Masato , Nakamura Shingo , Sakurai Takayuki , Watanabe Satoshi
Published: August 2013

The pancreas is considered an important gene therapy target because the organ is the site of several high burden diseases, including diabetes mellitus, cystic fibrosis, and pancreatic cancer. We aimed to develop an efficient in vivo gene delivery system using non‐viral DNA. Direct intra‐parenchymal injection of a solution containing circular plasmid pmaxGFP DNA was performed on adult anesthetized ICR female mice. The injection site was sandwiched with a pair of tweezer‐type electrode disks, and electroporated using a square‐pulse generator. Green fluorescent protein (GFP) expression within the injected pancreatic portion was observed one day after gene delivery. GFP expression reduced to baseline within a week of transfection. Application of voltages over 40 V resulted in tissue damage during electroporation. We demonstrate that electroporation is effective for safe and efficient transfection of pancreatic cells. This novel gene delivery method to the pancreatic parenchyma may find application in gene therapy strategies for pancreatic diseases and in investigation of specific gene function in situ.
A high‐throughput inhibition screening of major human cytochrome P450 enzymes using an in vitro cocktail and liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Qin Chong‐Zhen , Ren Xian , Tan Zhi‐Rong , Chen Yao , Yin Ji‐Ye , Yu Jing , Qu Jian , Zhou Hong‐Hao , Liu Zhao‐Qian
Published: August 2013

A sensitive and high‐throughput inhibition screening liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) method was developed and validated for the simultaneous quantification of five probe metabolites (7‐hydroxycoumarin, CYP2A6; 4‐hydroxytolbutamide, CYP2C9; 4′‐hydroxymephenytoin, CYP2C19; α‐hydroxymetoprolol, CYP2D6; and 1‐hydroxymidazolam, CYP3A4) for in vitro cytochrome P450 activity determination in human liver microsome and recombinant. All the metabolites and the internal standard, tramadol, were separated on a Waters 2695 series liquid chromatograph with a Phenomenex Luna C18 column (150 × 2.0 mm, 5 µm). Quality control samples and a positive control CYP inhibitor were included in the method. The IC50 values determined for typical CYP inhibitors were reproducible and in agreement with the literature. The method was selective and showed good accuracy (99.13–103.37%), and inter‐day (RSD < 6.20%) and intra‐day (RSD < 6.13%) precision. Also, the incubation extracts of the sample were stable at room temperature (20 °C) for 48 h and for 96 h in the autosampler (4 °C). The presented method is the first HPLC‐MS/MS method of this combination for simultaneous detection of the five metabolites 7‐hydroxycoumarin, 4‐hydroxytolbutamide, 4′‐hydroxymephenytoin, α‐hydroxymetoprolol and 1‐hydroxymidazolam in a single‐run process. It is possible that the high‐quality and ‐throughput cocktail provides suitable information in drug discovery and screening for new drug entities. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mechanistic Insights into the Rhenium‐Catalyzed Alcohol‐To‐Olefin Dehydration Reaction
Authors: Korstanje Ties J. , Jastrzebski Johann T. B. H. , Klein Gebbink Robertus J. M.
Published: August 2013

Rhenium‐based complexes are powerful catalysts for the dehydration of various alcohols to the corresponding olefins. Here, we report on both experimental and theoretical (DFT) studies into the mechanism of the rhenium‐catalyzed dehydration of alcohols to olefins in general, and the methyltrioxorhenium‐catalyzed dehydration of 1‐phenylethanol to styrene in particular. The experimental and theoretical studies are in good agreement, both showing the involvement of several proton transfers, and of a carbenium ion intermediate in the catalytic cycle.
A Flexible Approach to Strained Sandwich Compounds: Chiral [1]Ferrocenophanes with Boron, Gallium, Silicon, and Tin in Bridging Positions
Authors: Sadeh Saeid , Schatte Gabriele , Müller Jens
Published: August 2013

The enantiomerically pure dibromoferrocene 3 [(Sp,Sp)‐1,1′‐dibromo‐2,2′‐di(isopropyl)ferrocene], equipped with two iPr groups in α positions, was prepared using known “Ugi amine” chemistry. Species 3 was targeted in order to gain access to new [1]ferrocenophanes ([1]FCPs) to be used as monomers for ring‐opening polymerization. The iPr groups on the sandwich unit were introduced to stabilize bridging moieties, as well as to increase solubilities of targeted metallopolymers. The planar chiral dibromide 3 can quantitatively be lithiated at 0 °C [2 equiv nBuLi, hexanes/thf (9:1), 30 min]. Salt‐metathesis reactions with respective element dichloride species gave chiral [1]FCPs with a variety of bridging moieties [ERx=Ga[2‐(Me2NCH2)C6H4] (4 a), SiMe2 (4 b), SntBu2 (4 c), BNiPr2 (4 d)]. The new [1]FCPs were fully characterized including single‐crystal X‐ray analysis. The stabilizing iPr groups on the Cp rings increase the thermal stabilities of 4 b–d compared to known [1]FCPs, equipped with the same bridging moieties. All three compounds 4 b–d are volatile and could be isolated by vacuum sublimation. Our new approach to [1]FCPs has the potential to overcome many of the existing difficulties in ferrocenophane chemistry, such as limited stability of starting monomers and low solubilities of resulting polyferrocenes.
Improved Chiral SFC Screening for Analytical Method Development
Authors: Schafer Wes , Chandrasekaran Tilak , Pirzada Zainab , Zhang Chaowei , Gong Xiaoyi , Biba Mirlinda , Regalado Erik L. , Welch Christopher J.
Published: August 2013

In this study we describe the evaluation of a recently developed supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) instrument for automated chiral SFC method development. The greatly improved gradient dwell volume and liquid flow control of the new instrument in combination with the use of shorter columns containing smaller stationary phase particles affords chiral SFC method development that is faster and more universal than previous systems. Chirality 25:799–804, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Stereoselective Halocyclization of Alkenes With N‐Acyl Hemiaminal Nucleophiles
Authors: Liu Na , Wang Hao‐Yuan , Zhang Wei , Jia Zhi‐Hong , Guzei Ilia A. , Xu Hua‐dong , Tang Weiping
Published: August 2013

Halocyclization of alkenes was realized using N‐acylhemiaminal nucleophiles. High diastereoselectivity could be achieved for the formation of three stereogenic centers in this halogen‐mediated cyclization reaction. We also demonstrated that enantioselective bromocyclization of alkenes using N‐acylhemiaminal nucleophiles was possible. Chirality 25:805–809, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Onset of Chiral Adenine Surface Growth
Authors: Capitán María Jose , Álvarez Jesús , Wang Yang , Otero Roberto , Alcamí Manuel , Martín Fernando , Miranda Rodolfo
Published: August 2013

The structure and stability of adenine crystals and thin layers has been studied by using scanning tunneling microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and density functional theory calculations. We have found that adenine crystals can be grown in two phases that are energetically quasi‐degenerate, the structure of which can be described as a pile‐up of 2D adenine planes. In each plane, the structure can be described as an aggregation of adenine dimers. Under certain conditions, kinetic effects can favor the growth of the less stable phase. These results have been used to understand the growth of adenine thin films on gold under ultra‐high vacuum conditions. We have found that the grown phase corresponds to the α‐phase, which is composed of stacked prochiral planes. In this way, the adenine nanocrystals exhibit a surface that is enantiopure. These results could open new insight into the applications of adenine in biological, medical, and enantioselective or pharmaceutical fields.
Computational Study of the One‐ and Two‐Dimensional Infrared Spectra of a Proton‐Transfer Mode in a Hydrogen‐Bonded Complex Dissolved in a Polar Nanocluster
Authors: Sow Chia Shen , Tomkins Joseph , Hanna Gabriel
Published: August 2013

The signatures of nanosolvation on the one‐ and two‐dimensional (1D and 2D) IR spectra of a proton‐transfer mode in a hydrogen‐bonded complex dissolved in polar solvent molecule nanoclusters of varying size are elucidated by using mixed quantum–classical molecular dynamics simulations. For this particular system, increasing the number of solvent molecules successively from N=7 to N=9 initiates the transition of the system from a cluster state to a bulk‐like state. Both the 1D and 2D IR spectra reflect this transition through pronounced changes in their peak intensities and numbers, but the time‐resolved 2D IR spectra also manifest spectral features that uniquely identify the onset of the cluster‐to‐bulk transition. In particular, it is observed that in the 1D IR spectra, the relative intensities of the peaks change such that the number of peaks decreases from three to two as the size of the cluster increases from N=7 to N=9. In the 2D IR spectra, off‐diagonal peaks are observed in the N=7 and N=8 cases at zero waiting time, but not in the N=9 case. It is known that there are no off‐diagonal peaks in the 2D IR spectrum of the bulk version of this system at zero waiting time, so the disappearance of these peaks is a unique signature of the onset of bulk‐like behavior. Through an examination of the trajectories of various properties of the complex and solvent, it is possible to relate the emergence of these off‐diagonal peaks to an interplay between the vibrations of the complex and the solvent polarization dynamics.
Synthesis, characterization and hydrogen sorption studies of mixed sodium‐potassium alanate
Authors: Bhatnagar Ashish , Pandey Sunita K. , Shahi Rohit R. , Hudson M. Sterlin Leo , Shaz M. A. , Srivastava O. N.
Published: August 2013

The aim of the present investigation is to synthesize mixed sodium potassium alanate (K2NaAlH6) and to explore its hydrogen sorption characteristics. K2NaAlH6 is synthesized through ball milling of KH and NaAlH4 in the molar ratio 2:1 under hydrogen pressure of 10 bar. The temperature programmed desorption experiment shows that the synthesized K2NaAlH6 has peak desorption temperature of ∼352°C and reveals appreciable rehydrogenation kinetics under 6 bar hydrogen pressure at 300°C. The investigations are also focused on the catalytic effect of carbon nanostructures (CNS) namely, the graphene sheet (GS) and single wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT) and titanium halides (TiCl3 and TiF3) on K2NaAlH6. In the case of graphene and SWCNT catalyzed K2NaAlH6, the peak desorption temperature gets reduced to ∼347°C and ∼341°C respectively. The catalytic effects of CNS and titanium halide on K2NaAlH6 are also compared in the investigation. Between the two types of catalysts, halides are found to be better than CNS and out of the two halides, TiF3 is found to be the best catalyst for hydrogen sorption in K2NaAlH6. The peak desorption temperature decreases significantly from 352°C to ∼324°C for TiF3 catalyzed K2NaAlH6. Thus, the desorption activation energy reduces drastically from 124.43 kJ/mol (synthesized K2NaAlH6) to 88.05 kJ/mol for TiF3 catalyzed K2NaAlH6.
Underestimation of rat serum vancomycin concentrations measured by an enzyme‐multiplied immunoassay technique and the strategy for its avoidance
Authors: Konishi Hiroki , Iga Ikumi , Nagai Katsuhito
Published: August 2013

An enzyme‐multiplied immunoassay technique (EMIT) has been widely adopted for the measurement of serum concentrations of vancomycin (VCM) in clinical practice. Because of the growing demand for its application to fundamental pharmacokinetic studies, we examined whether VCM concentrations in rat serum were accurately measured by EMIT. It was found that measured values of known amounts of VCM spiked to rat serum were markedly underestimated with a large analytical variance. When ultrafiltrated rat serum was used as the sample matrix, interference was significantly improved, and the degree of underestimation was attenuated also by diluting samples with physiological saline. These results suggest that endogenous substances of a high molecular weight in rat serum interfere with the analysis of VCM concentrations by EMIT. However, measured values of rat serum VCM concentrations by EMIT were restored to theoretical levels by exposing samples to 70°C for 3–7 min. A likely explanation for the avoidance of interference is that an appropriate thermal force eliminated the immunological function of endogenous substances falsely recognizing VCM without affecting the VCM molecule itself. Regarding serum samples collected from rats that were administered VCM, values measured by EMIT following the heat‐treatment agreed well with those by the high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. This is the first report showing interference by endogenous high‐molecular substances in the measurement of drug concentrations in rat serum using EMIT. Our findings will contribute to the appropriate use of VCM based on evidence provided by clinical‐oriented rat experiments requiring the measurement of serum VCM concentrations by EMIT. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Growing Green Democracy? Barriers to Ecological Modernization in Democratizing States
Authors: O'Brien Thomas
Published: August 2013

Ecological modernization has established an important position in the field of environmental politics. The adoption of technocratic solutions to environmental challenges is attractive to policymakers. Ecological modernization enables such an approach, in combination with mechanisms for participation and reflexive policy development. However, there are questions regarding the applicability of the concept to political contexts differing from those in the Northern European states in which it first emerged. This paper examines the challenges associated with adopting ecological modernization in the context of democratization and draws on analysis of the development of environmental politics in Bulgaria to illustrate the difficulties identified. The findings suggest that the adoption of ecological modernization during a period of democratization may lead to the hardening of closed technocratic policy‐making, limiting wider participation and preventing the development of stronger and more reflexive forms of ecological modernization. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Generation of highly effective and stable murine alloreactive Treg cells by combined anti‐CD4 mAb, TGF‐β, and RA treatment
Authors: Schliesser Ulrike , Chopra Martin , Beilhack Andreas , Appelt Christine , Vogel Simone , Schumann Julia , Panov Ivo , Vogt Katrin , Schlickeiser Stephan , Olek Sven , Wood Kathryn , Brandt Christine , Volk Hans‐Dieter , Sawitzki Birgit
Published: August 2013

The transfer of alloreactive regulatory T (aTreg) cells into transplant recipients represents an attractive treatment option to improve long‐term graft acceptance. We recently described a protocol for the generation of aTreg cells in mice using a nondepleting anti‐CD4 antibody (aCD4). Here, we investigated whether adding TGF‐β and retinoic acid (RA) or rapamycin (Rapa) can further improve aTreg‐cell generation and function. Murine CD4+ T cells were cultured with allogeneic B cells in the presence of aCD4 alone, aCD4+TGF‐β+RA or aCD4+Rapa. Addition of TGF‐β+RA or Rapa resulted in an increase of CD25+Foxp3+‐expressing T cells. Expression of CD40L and production of IFN‐γ and IL‐17 was abolished in aCD4+TGF‐β+RA aTreg cells. Additionally, aCD4+TGF‐β+RA aTreg cells showed the highest level of Helios and Neuropilin‐1 co‐expression. Although CD25+Foxp3+ cells from all culture conditions displayed complete demethylation of the Treg‐specific demethylated region, aCD4+TGF‐β+RA Treg cells showed the most stable Foxp3 expression upon restimulation. Consequently, aCD4+TGF‐β+RA aTreg cells suppressed effector T‐cell differentiation more effectively in comparison to aTreg cells harvested from all other cultures, and furthermore inhibited acute graft versus host disease and especially skin transplant rejection. Thus, addition of TGF‐β+RA seems to be superior over Rapa in stabilising the phenotype and functional capacity of aTreg cells.
A comparison of adaptive sampling designs and binary spatial models : a simulation study using a census of Bromus inermis
Authors: Irvine Kathryn M. , Thornton Jamie , Backus Vickie M. , Hohmann Matthew G. , Lehnhoff Erik A. , Maxwell Bruce D. , Michels Kurt , Rew Lisa J.
Published: August 2013

Commonly in environmental and ecological studies, species distribution data are recorded as presence or absence throughout a spatial domain of interest. Field based studies typically collect observations by sampling a subset of the spatial domain. We consider the effects of six different adaptive and two non‐adaptive sampling designs and choice of three binary models on both predictions to unsampled locations and parameter estimation of the regression coefficients (species–environment relationships). Our simulation study is unique compared to others to date in that we virtually sample a true known spatial distribution of a nonindigenous plant species, Bromus inermis. The census of B. inermis provides a good example of a species distribution that is both sparsely (1.9 % prevalence) and patchily distributed. We find that modeling the spatial correlation using a random effect with an intrinsic Gaussian conditionally autoregressive prior distribution was equivalent or superior to Bayesian autologistic regression in terms of predicting to un‐sampled areas when strip adaptive cluster sampling was used to survey B. inermis. However, inferences about the relationships between B. inermis presence and environmental predictors differed between the two spatial binary models. The strip adaptive cluster designs we investigate provided a significant advantage in terms of Markov chain Monte Carlo chain convergence when trying to model a sparsely distributed species across a large area. In general, there was little difference in the choice of neighborhood, although the adaptive king was preferred when transects were randomly placed throughout the spatial domain. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Time until nursing home admission in people with mild dementia: comparison of dementia with Lewy bodies and Alzheimer's dementia
Authors: Rongve Arvid , Vossius Corinna , Nore Sabine , Testad Ingelin , Aarsland Dag
Published: August 2013

Objective

We studied time until nursing home admission (NHA) in mild dementia and predictors for NHA in people with Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and how it compares to Alzheimer's dementia (AD).

Methods

Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards were applied.

Results

Median time until NHA was 1114 days (95% confidence interval [CI] [932, 1296]). In DLB median time until NHA was 663 days [472, 998]) as compared with 1336 days (1068, 1606) in AD, p < 0.0005. Predictors of shorter time to NHA in the DLB and AD groups in unadjusted analyses were a DLB diagnosis, the use of antipsychotic medication, more advanced age, longer duration of dementia symptoms prior to diagnosis, living alone, higher reported caregiver distress, and more neuropsychiatric symptoms. The use of cholinesterase inhibitors was associated with halved risk of NHA in the combined DLB/AD group in the unadjusted Cox regression. In adjusted Cox regression in the DLB group, we found the use of cholinesterase inhibitors to be associated with reduced risk of NHA (HR = 0.24) and the use of antipsychotic medication to be associated with increased risk of NHA (HR = 37) during the study period.

Conclusion

Patients diagnosed with DLB had nearly 2 years shorter time to NHA than those diagnosed with AD. In the DLB group, the use of cholinesterase inhibitors was associated with reduced and the use of antipsychotics with increased risk of NHA. Future studies should explore whether better identification and management of the variety of clinical problems in patients diagnosed with DLB can delay NHA. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the global character of overlap between low and high clouds
Authors: Yuan Tianle , Oreopoulos Lazaros
Published: August 2013

The global character of overlap between low and high clouds is examined using active satellite sensors. Low‐cloud fraction has a strong land‐ocean contrast with oceanic values double those over land. Major low‐cloud regimes include not only the eastern ocean boundary stratocumulus and shallow cumulus but also those associated with cold air outbreaks downwind of wintertime continents and land stratus over particular geographic areas. Globally, about 30% of low clouds are overlapped by high clouds. The overlap rate exhibits strong spatial variability ranging from higher than 90% in the tropics to less than 5% in subsidence areas and is anticorrelated with subsidence rate and low‐cloud fraction. The zonal mean of vertical separation between cloud layers is never smaller than 5 km and its zonal variation closely follows that of tropopause height, implying a tight connection with tropopause dynamics. Possible impacts of cloud overlap on low clouds are discussed.
The influence of land use patterns on water quality at multiple spatial scales in a river system
Authors: Wang Guoqiang , A Yinglan , Xu Zongxue , Zhang Shurong
Published: August 2013

The influence of land use patterns on water quality in a river system is scale‐dependent. In this study, a four‐order hierarchical arrangement method was used to select water sampling sites and to delineate sub‐basins in the Daliao River Basin, China. The 20 sub‐basins were classified into four spatial scales that represented four different stream orders. Pearson correlation analysis was used to quantify relationships between land use composition and the river's physical‐chemical variables for all samples collected. This analysis showed that the presence of forest cover was associated with higher water quality at the scale of the whole basin. The scale effects of land use patterns on water quality were then examined using stepwise multiple regression analysis that compared different land use types with water quality variables. The results from this analysis showed that urban areas, as opposed to forest areas, became the most significant contributors of water pollutants when scale effects were considered. The influence of urban land cover on water pollution was significantly higher at larger scales. The lack of a significant regression correlation for the forest land use type at smaller scales revealed that forest located upstream of the Daliao River Basin did not provide a buffer for improved water quality. Further analysis showed that this result could be because of disproportionate spatial distributions for forest and urban land use types. The topographic characteristics of sub‐basins, such as average slope (S) and size (A), were determined to be secondary explanatory variables that affected land use impacts on stream water quality. Areas with steep slopes were associated with increased water oxygenation, whereas areas with flatter slopes were associated with higher concentrations of pollutants. These results are significant because they can provide a better understanding of the appropriate spatial scale required for effective river basin management in the future. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel processing of bioglass ceramics from silicone resins containing micro‐ and nano‐sized oxide particle fillers
Authors: Fiocco L. , Bernardo E. , Colombo P. , Cacciotti I. , Bianco A. , Bellucci D. , Sola A. , Cannillo V.
Published: August 2013

Highly porous scaffolds with composition similar to those of 45S5 and 58S bioglasses were successfully produced by an innovative processing method based on preceramic polymers containing micro‐ and nano‐sized fillers. Silica from the decomposition of the silicone resins reacted with the oxides deriving from the fillers, yielding glass ceramic components after heating at 1000°C. Despite the limited mechanical strength, the obtained samples possessed suitable porous architecture and promising biocompatibility and bioactivity characteristics, as testified by preliminary in vitro tests. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 2502–2510, 2014.
A novel porous bioceramics scaffold by accumulating hydroxyapatite spherulites for large bone tissue engineering in vivo. II. Construct large volume of bone grafts
Authors: Zhi Wei , Zhang Cong , Duan Ke , Li Xiaohong , Qu Shuxin , Wang Jianxin , Zhu Zhuoli , Huang Peng , Xia Tian , Liao Ga , Weng Jie
Published: August 2013

In vivo engineering of bone autografts using bioceramic scaffolds with appropriate porous structures is a potential approach to prepare autologous bone grafts for the repair of critical‐sized bone defects. This study investigated the evolutionary process of osteogenesis, angiogenesis, and compressive strength of bioceramic scaffolds implanted in two non‐osseous sites of dogs: the abdominal cavity and the dorsal muscle. Hydroxyapatite (HA) sphere‐accumulated scaffolds with controlled porous structures were prepared and placed in the two sites for up to 6 months. Analyses of retrieved scaffolds found that osteogenesis and angiogenesis were faster in scaffolds implanted in dorsal muscles compared with those placed in abdominal cavities. The abdominal cavity, however, can accommodate larger bone grafts with designed shape. Analyses of scaffolds implanted in abdominal cavities [an environment of a low mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) density] further demonstrated that angiogenesis play critical roles during osteogenesis in the scaffolds, presumably by supplying progenitor cells and/or MSCs as seed cells. This study also examined the relationship between the volume of bone grafts and the physiological environment of in vivo bioreactor. These results provide basic information for the selection of appropriate implanting sites and culture time required to engineer autologous bone grafts for the clinical bone defect repair. Based on these positive results, a pilot study has applied the grafts constructed in canine abdominal cavity to repair segmental bone defect in load‐bearing sites (limbs). © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 2491–2501, 2014.
Evolution of withdrawal features of the southwest monsoon over India
Authors: Raju P. V. S. , Bhatla R.
Published: August 2013

The withdrawal features of the Indian summer monsoon (ISM) are investigated with the large‐scale circulations and significant terms of kinetic energy (KE), heat and moisture budget. The daily reanalysis datasets of National Center for Environmental Prediction/National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCEP/NCAR) for the period of 1981–2005 are used. The results reveal that the strength of low‐level westerlies over the Arabian Sea, Indian landmass and Bay of Bengal decreases during the transition of withdrawal phase of the summer monsoon. On the other hand, the strength of upper level tropical easterly jet weakens from pre‐retreat to post‐retreat. The intensity and position of rising and sinking flow of vertical velocity shifted towards south from pre‐retreat to post‐retreat period. The diagnostic analysis indicates that the zones of Somali coast and southwest Bay of Bengal show stronger generation of KE during pre‐retreat period. Further, the flux convergence of heat observed over central Indian Ocean and the flux divergence of heat over east African region during post‐retreat period. The flux convergence of heat and moisture are stronger over the equatorial Indian Ocean during post‐retreat phase as compared to pre‐retreat. The convective activity and moisture flux convergence are stronger over the Indian Ocean during post‐retreat period, which is due to the movement of Inter Tropical Convergence Zone towards south during the transition from summer to winter monsoon over India. Thus, the dynamic and thermodynamic behaviour of monsoon has great impact on the transition during retreat phase of the ISM.
A crosstalk model and its application to stereoscopic and autostereoscopic displays
Authors: Huang Kuo‐Chung , Chen Fu‐Hao , Lin Lang‐chin , Lin Hoang Yan , Chou Yi‐Heng , Liao Ching‐Chiu , Chen Yi‐Han , Lee Kuen
Published: August 2013

We propose a model to quantify the crosstalk phenomenon for stereoscopic and autostereoscopic displays, separate crosstalk contributed from co‐location image contrast (CIC) and system crosstalk (SCT), introduce gray scale dependency of CIC, modify model for gray scale dependency of SCT in active type 3D displays, and apply the model to derive the 3D luminance and SCT measurement formulas. The model might serve as a basis for the 3D metrology, and the results of this research should be of reference value to hardware makers and inspectors of stereoscopic and autostereoscopic displays.
Positivity and stability of linear functional differential equations with infinite delay
Authors: Ngoc Pham Huu Anh
Published: August 2013

General linear functional differential equations with infinite delay are considered. We first give an explicit criterion for positivity of the solution semigroup of linear functional differential equations with infinite delay and then a Perron‐Frobenius type theorem for positive equations. Next, a novel criterion for the exponential asymptotic stability of positive equations is presented. Furthermore, two sufficient conditions for the exponential asymptotic stability of positive equations subjected to structured perturbations and affine perturbations are provided. Finally, we applied the obtained results to problems of the exponential asymptotic stability of Volterra integrodifferential equations. To the best of our knowledge, most of the results of this paper are new.
BMO spaces related to Laguerre semigroups
Authors: Harboure Eleonor , Ruiz Aníbal Chicco
Published: August 2013

For the system of Laguerre functions we define a suitable BMO space from the atomic version of the Hardy space considered by Dziubański in , where is the maximal operator of the heat semigroup associated to that Laguerre system. We prove boundedness of over a weighted version of that BMO, and we extend such result to other systems of Laguerre functions, namely and . To do that, we work with a more general family of weighted BMO‐like spaces that includes those associated to all of the above mentioned Laguerre systems. In this setting, we prove that the local versions of the Hardy‐Littlewood and the heat‐diffusion maximal operators turn to be bounded over such family of spaces for weights. This result plays a decisive role in proving the boundedness of Laguerre semigroup maximal operators.
Generalized fractional integrals on generalized Morrey spaces
Authors: Nakai Eiichi
Published: August 2013

On generalized Morrey spaces with variable exponent and variable growth function the boundedness of generalized fractional integral operators is established, where . The result is a generalization of the theorems of Adams [1] (1975) and Gunawan [11] (2003). Moreover, we prove weak type boundedness. To do this we first prove the boundedness of the Hardy‐Littlewood maximal operator on the generalized Morrey spaces.
Distally based saphenous neurocutaneous perforator flap combined with vac therapy for soft tissue reconstruction and hardware salvage in the lower extremities
Authors: Wen Gen , Wang Chun‐Yang , Chai Yi‐Min , Cheng Liang , Chen Ming , Yi‐Min LV
Published: August 2013

The complex wound with the exposed hardware and infection is one of the common complications after the internal fixation of the tibia fracture. The salvage of hardware and reconstruction of soft tissue defect remain challenging. In this report, we presented our experience on the use of the distally based saphenous neurocutaneous perforator flap combined with vacuum‐assisted closure (VAC) therapy for the coverage of the soft tissue defect and the exposed hardware in the lower extremity with fracture. Between January 2008 and July 2010, seven patients underwent the VAC therapy followed by transferring a reversed saphenous neurocutaneous perforator flap for reconstruction of the wound with exposed hardware around the distal tibia. The sizes of the flaps ranged from 6 × 3 cm to 15 × 6 cm. Six flaps survived completely. Partial necrosis occurred in one patient. There were no other complications of repair and donor sites. Bone healing was achieved in all patients. In conclusion, the reversed saphenous neurocutaneous perfortor flaps combined with the VAC therapy might be one of the options to cover the complex wound with exposed hardware in the lower extremities. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 33:625–630, 2013.
Collocation method for the numerical solutions of Lane–Emden type equations using cubic Hermite spline functions
Authors: Mohammadzadeh Robabeh , Lakestani Mehrdad , Dehghan Mehdi
Published: August 2013

Three numerical techniques based on cubic Hermite spline functions are presented for the solution of Lane–Emden equation. Some properties of Hermite splines are presented and are utilized to reduce the solution of Lane–Emden equation to the solution of algebraic equations. Illustrative examples are included to demonstrate the validity and applicability of these techniques. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Flavonoid apigenin modified gene expression associated with inflammation and cancer and induced apoptosis in human pancreatic cancer cells through inhibition of GSK‐3β/NF‐κB signaling cascade
Authors: Johnson Jodee L. , de Mejia Elvira Gonzalez
Published: August 2013

Scope

The objective was to examine the inhibitory effects of citrus fruit bioactive compounds on BxPC‐3 and PANC‐1 human pancreatic cancer cells, focusing on the antiproliferative mechanism of action of the flavonoid apigenin related to the glycogen synthase kinase‐3β/nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathway.

Methods and results

Flavonoids, limonoids, phenolic acids, and ascorbic acid were tested for cytotoxic effects on BxPC‐3 and PANC‐1 cells; apigenin was the most potent (IC50 = 23 and 12 μM for 24 and 48 h for BxPC‐3 and IC50 = 71 and 41 μM for 24 and 48 h for PANC‐1). Apigenin induced pancreatic cell death through inhibition of the glycogen synthase kinase‐3β/nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathway. Apigenin arrested cell cycle at G2/M phase (36 and 32% at 50 μM for BxPC‐3 and PANC‐1, respectively) with concomitant decrease in the expression of cyclin B1. Apigenin activated the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis (44 and 14% at 50 μM for BxPC‐3 and PANC‐1, respectively) and modified the expression of apoptotic proteins. Apigenin highly upregulated the expression of cytokine genes IL17F (114.2‐fold), LTA (33.1‐fold), IL17C (23.2‐fold), IL17A (11.3‐fold), and IFNB1 (8.9‐fold) in BxPC‐3 cells, which potentially contributed to the anticancer properties.

Conclusion

Flavonoids have a protective role in pancreatic cancer tumorigenesis.
Clinical implications of a feeling of incomplete emptying with little post‐void residue in men with lower urinary tract symptoms
Authors: Lee Joo Yong , Lee Dae Hun , Lee Hyeyoung , Bang Woo Jin , Hah Yoon Soo , Cho Kang Su
Published: August 2013

Aim

It remains unclear why patients suffer from a feeling of incomplete emptying despite no or little post‐void residual (PVR). Accordingly, we evaluated the clinical implications thereof in men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).

Methods

Records were obtained from a prospectively maintained database for 905 first‐visit men with LUTS. Patients with comorbidities that may affect voiding function and with PVR > 20 ml were excluded. Finally, 421 patients were eligible for the study.

Results

By International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), a score for evaluating a feeling of incomplete emptying, 106 patients (25.2%) were characterized as experiencing no symptoms (score 0, 1), 201 (47.7%) as mild to moderate symptoms (score 2, 3), and 114 (27.1%) as severe symptoms (score 4, 5). The severity of a feeling of incomplete emptying was significantly associated with total IPSS and with subscores for both voiding and storage symptoms (P < 0.001). Comparing patients with severe symptoms (severe group, N = 114) with a propensity score‐matched control group, adjusting for age, PVR, and maximum flow rate, total IPSS was significantly different between the two groups (23.04 ± 5.68 vs. 13.21 ± 5.48, respectively; P < 0.001). The subscores for both voiding and storage symptoms were also significantly worse in the severe group. The quality of life score was 4.51 ± 0.80 in the severe group and 3.53 ± 1.05 in control group (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

A feeling of incomplete emptying despite little PVR was frequently observed and, notably, this was significantly associated with worsening of both voiding and storage symptoms, even after adjusting for relevant variables. Neurourol. Urodynam. 33:1123–1127, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.