bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Click Reaction Synthesis and Photophysical Studies of Dendritic Metalloporphyrins
Authors: Nguyen Nguyen Tran , Hofkens Johan , Scheblykin Ivan G. , Kruk Mikalai , Dehaen Wim
Published: February 2014

Several dendritic zinc(II)‐porphyrins bearing carbazole units at the terminals have been prepared through click reaction of azide‐substituted Zn‐porphyrin precursors and carbazole‐based alkynes under [Cu(NCCH3)4][PF6] catalysis. This family of new dendritic metalloporphyrins shows dual luminescence from both the upper S2 and the lowest S1 singlet states. The observed trends in the spectroscopic data and the photophysical properties of the dendrimers have been rationalized in terms of the type of meso‐spacer between the macrocycle and dendritic shell. The key feature of the meso‐spacer is proposed to be the degree of hindrance towards aryl ring rotation relative to the mean porphyrin plane. Based on the observed differences in the S1→S0 fluorescence quantum yield on going from four‐ to five‐coordinate dendrimers, it was shown that dendrimer architectures with all four meso‐aryl spacers sterically hindered, are most appropriate to monitor processes related to axial ligation of the dendrimer core, since they provide larger luminescence response differences between the four‐coordinate and five‐coordinate forms. The blue S2→S0 fluorescence quantum yield has been measured and the observed trend has been rationalized in terms of the S2→S1 energy gap law. No significant differences were observed between the compounds either with different rotational degree of freedom of the meso‐spacers or with different ligation states of the dendrimer core.
Hetero‐Wolff Rearrangement of an α‐Sulfinyl Carbene: Thermally Activated Intersystem Crossing of the Lowest Excited Triplet State of a Ground‐State Singlet Carbene
Authors: O'Sullivan Orlagh C. M. , Collins Stuart G. , Maguire Anita R. , Buche Götz
Published: February 2014

Laser flash photolysis (λexc = 266 nm) of α‐sulfinyl diazo compound 1b results in the formation of two transient phenomena. Transient absorption A (intense, λmax = 275 nm) shows jump‐and‐growth behaviour with a growth lifetime of τ = 2 μs. Transient absorption B (weak, λmax = 415 and 540 nm) decays with a lifetime of τ = 1.8 μs, which suggests that B decays into A. On the basis of a comparison with calculated UV/Vis spectra, transient absorption B is assigned to triplet carbene 37. DFT and CCSD(T) calculations indicate that carbene 7 should have a singlet (S) ground state with a singlet–triplet energy gap of ca. 11 kcal mol–1 in acetonitrile solution. The seemingly paradoxical observation of a triplet excited state of a ground‐state singlet carbene is rationalised in terms of the very different geometries of the singlet and triplet carbene; the most prominent difference lies in the pyramidalisation at the sulfoxide sulfur atom. For the singlet carbene 17, the O–S–C:–C(=O) dihedral angle is calculated to be 172.8°, whereas it is –80.0° for the triplet carbene 37. Therefore, for efficient intersystem crossing (ISC) to occur, the triplet carbene must significantly change its geometry. A triplet–singlet minimum energy crossing point (MECP) was located with an O–S–C:–C(=O) dihedral angle of –141.3°. On the basis of the energy of this MECP (15.2 kcal mol–1 above the S carbene in CH3CN) and on the ISC rate constant of diphenyl carbene taken as preexponential factor, a rate for the ISC of 37 is estimated that matches the experimental value within one order of magnitude.
Characterization of goat milk lactoferrin N‐glycans and comparison with the N‐glycomes of human and bovine milk
Authors: Le Parc Annabelle , Dallas David C. , Duaut Solene , Leonil Joelle , Martin Patrice , Barile Daniela
Published: February 2014

Numerous milk components, such as lactoferrin, are recognized as health‐promoting compounds. A growing body of evidence suggests that glycans could mediate lactoferrin's bioactivity. Goat milk lactoferrin is a candidate for infant formula supplementation because of its high homology with its human counterpart. The aim of this study was to characterize the glycosylation pattern of goat milk lactoferrin. After the protein was isolated from milk by affinity chromatography, N‐glycans were enzymatically released and a complete characterization of glycan composition was carried out by advanced MS. The glycosylation of goat milk lactoferrin was compared with that of human and bovine milk glycoproteins. Nano‐LC‐Chip‐Q‐TOF MS data identified 65 structures, including high mannose, hybrid, and complex N‐glycans. Among the N‐glycan compositions, 37% were sialylated and 34% were fucosylated. The results demonstrated the existence of similar glycans in human and goat milk but also identified novel glycans in goat milk that were not present in human milk. These data suggest that goat milk could be a source of bioactive compounds, including lactoferrin that could be used as functional ingredients for food products beneficial to human nutrition.
Evaluating effects of applying different kinetic models to pyrolysis modeling of fiberglass‐reinforced polymer composites
Authors: Kim E. , Dembsey N. , Shivkumar S.
Published: February 2014

This research evaluates the effects of applying different kinetic models (KMs), developed based on thermal analysis using thermogravimetric analysis data, when used in typical 1D pyrolysis models of fiberglass‐reinforced polymer (FRP) composites. The effect of different KMs is isolated from the FRP heating by conducting pyrolysis modeling based on measured temperature gradients. Mass loss rate simulations from this pyrolysis modeling with various KMs show changes in the simulations due to applying different KM approaches are minimal in general. Pyrolysis simulations with the most complex KM are conducted at several heat flux levels. Mass loss rate comparison shows there is good overlap between simulations and the experimental data at low incident heat fluxes. Comparison shows there is poor overlap at high incident heat fluxes. These results indicate that increasing complexity of KMs to be used in pyrolysis modeling is unnecessary for these FRP samples and that the basic assumption of considering thermal decomposition of each computational cell in comprehensive pyrolysis modeling as equivalent to that in a thermogravimetric analysis experiment becomes inapplicable at depth and higher heating rates. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Study to find the best extraction solvent for use with guava leaves (Psidium guajavaL.) for high antioxidant efficacy
Authors: Seo Jongkwon , Lee Soojung , Elam Marcus L. , Johnson Sarah A. , Kang Jonghoon , Arjmandi Bahram H.
Published: February 2014

The effects of guava leaves extracted using solvents of water, ethanol, methanol, and different concentrations of hydroethanolic solvents on phenolic compounds and flavonoids, and antioxidant properties have been investigated. The antioxidant capability was assessed based on 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical and 2,2′‐azinobis‐(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) radical‐scavenging abilities, reducing power, and nitric oxide‐ and nitrate‐scavenging activities. The results demonstrated that the antioxidant ability of guava leaf extracts has a strong relationship with phenolic compound content rather than flavonoid content. Phenolic compound content of water extracted guava leaves was higher compared to pure ethanol and methanol extracts. However, phenolic compound content extracted using hydroethanolic solvent was higher than water, whereas 50% hydroethanolic was observed to be the most effective solvent showing high antioxidant ability.
Deviations from Put–Call Parity and Volatility Prediction: Evidence from the Taiwan Index Option Market
Authors: Chen Chin‐Ho , Chung Huimin , Yuan Shu‐Fang
Published: February 2014

This study examines whether deviations from put–call parity are informative about future volatility in the underlying index. Using the difference in implied volatility between call and put options to measure these deviations, we find that deviations from put–call parity predict future volatility. The predictability becomes stronger as option liquidity increases and the liquidity of the underlying index decreases. The results for volatility prediction remain significant even after controlling for implied volatility, information shocks, other information variables on return and volatility used widely in the literature, and short sales constraints. In addition, our results also show that deviations from put–call parity contain information about the future trading volume of options and the underlying index. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 34:1122–1145, 2014
The effect of UGT1A and UGT2B polymorphisms on colorectal cancer risk: Haplotype associations and gene–environment interactions
Authors: Angstadt Andrea Y. , Hartman Terryl J. , Lesko Samuel M. , Muscat Joshua E. , Zhu Junjia , Gallagher Carla J. , Lazarus Philip
Published: February 2014

UDP‐glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs) play an important role in the phase II metabolism of exogenous and endogenous compounds. As colorectal cancer (CRC) etiology is thought to involve the biotransformation of dietary factors, UGT polymorphisms may affect CRC risk by altering levels of exposure. Genotyping of over 1800 Caucasian subjects was completed to identify the role of genetic variation in nine UGT1A and five UGT2B genes on CRC risk. Unconditional logistic regression and haplotype analyses were conducted to identify associations with CRC risk and potential gene‐environment interactions. UGT1A haplotype analysis found that the T‐G haplotype in UGT1A10 exon 1 (block 2: rs17864678, rs10929251) decreased cancer risk for the colon [proximal (OR = 0.28, 95% CI = 0.11–0.69) and for the distal colon (OR = 0.32, 95% CI = 0.12–0.91)], and that the C‐T‐G haplotype in the 3′ region flanking the UGT1A shared exons (block 11: rs7578153, rs10203853, rs6728940) increased CRC risk in males (OR = 2.56, 95% CI = 1.10–5.95). A haplotype in UGT2B15 containing a functional variant (rs4148269, K523T) and an intronic SNP (rs6837575) was found to affect rectal cancer risk overall (OR = 2.57, 95% CI = 1.21–5.04) and in females (OR = 3.08, 95% CI = 1.08–8.74). An interaction was found between high NSAID use and the A‐G‐T haplotype (block 10: rs6717546, rs1500482, rs7586006) in the UGT1A shared exons that decreased CRC risk. This suggests that UGT genetic variation alters CRC risk differently by anatomical sub‐site and gender and that polymorphisms in the UGT1A shared exons may have a regulatory effect on gene expression that allows for the protective effect of NSAIDs on CRC risk. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Detecting bean stress response to CO2 leakage with the utilization of leaf and canopy spectral derivative ratio
Authors: Jinbao Jiang , Steven Michael D , Qingkong Cai , Ruyan He , Haiqiang Guo , Yunhao Chen
Published: February 2014

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is one of the critical techniques for mitigating global climate warming which can capture and store the CO2 released during industrial processes into deep geological sites. However, there is a possible risk that the CO2 might leak from under the ground. Therefore, it is important that CO2 leakage spots on the surface of sequestration fields be detected at large scale and on a long‐term basis. The purpose of this study was to design a new model to identify CO2 leakage spots through monitoring the spectral change of vegetation on the surface of the sequestration fields. A field simulation experiment was performed at the Sutton Bonington campus of the University of Nottingham to collect the leaf and canopy reflectance of beans, which grew in soil with different levels of CO2 concentration. Visible symptoms of bean stress caused by CO2 leakage may include the reducing bean vigor and the bean leaves turning yellow. The canopy spectra and leaf spectra were processed by a smoothing, continuum removal and first derivative method. We found that, while the CO2 concentration of the soil increased, the sum of the first derivative reflectance in the 500–550 nm (SDg) increased and that in the 680–760 nm (SDr) decreased gradually compared with that of the control plots. Moreover, the newly developed ratio index SDr/SDg can be effectively used to distinguish gassed and ungassed beans at both leaf and canopy scales. Significant correlation was found between the SPAD values and the SDr/SDg indices (R2 = 0.5687, n = 197). This study indicates that hyperspectral remote sensing techniques can be used to detect CO2 leaking spots by investigating the spectral change of vegetation reflectance in the sequestration fields.
Increased functional coupling between the left fronto‐parietal network and anterior insula predicts steeper delay discounting in smokers
Authors: Clewett David , Luo Shan , Hsu Eustace , Ainslie George , Mather Mara , Monterosso John
Published: February 2014

In previous work, smokers showed steeper devaluation of delayed rewards than non‐smokers. While the neural correlates of this link between nicotine dependence and delay of discounting are not established, altered activity in executive networks may relate to impaired delayed gratification. The goal of this study was to examine neural correlates of discounting and their relation to nicotine dependence. Thirty‐nine smokers and 33 non‐smokers completed a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) intertemporal choice task in which they made individualized Hard (similarly valued), easy (dissimilarly valued), and control monetary choices. FMRI data were analyzed using a group independent component analysis and dual regression. Smokers discounted more steeply than non‐smokers, although this difference was only significant among severely dependent smokers. Intertemporal choices recruited distinct left‐ and right‐lateralized fronto‐parietal networks. A group‐by‐difficulty interaction indicated that smokers, relative to non‐smokers, exhibited less difficulty‐sensitivity in the right fronto‐parietal network. In contrast, smokers showed greater functional connectivity between the left fronto‐parietal network and the left fronto‐insular cortex. Moreover, the degree of functional connectivity between the left fronto‐parietal network and left fronto‐insular cortex was significantly correlated with individual differences in discounting. Thus, greater functional coupling between the anterior insula and left fronto‐parietal network is a candidate neural substrate linking smoking and impulsivity. Given the anterior insula's role in interfacing cognitive and interoceptive processing, this altered functional connectivity may relate to an addiction‐related bias towards immediate rewards. Hum Brain Mapp 35:3774–3787, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
HIF‐1α and CA‐IX as predictors of locoregional control for determining the optimal treatment modality for early‐stage laryngeal carcinoma
Authors: Kwon Oh Jin , Park Jung Je , Ko Gyung Hyuck , Seo Ji Hyun , Jeong Bae‐Kwon , Kang Ki Mun , Woo Seung Hoon , Kim Jin Pyeong , Hwa Jeong Seok , Carey Thomas E.
Published: February 2014

Background

The purpose of this study was to examine the predictive value of hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF)−1α, carbonic anhydrase (CA)‐IX, glucose transporter (GLUT)−1, cyclooxygenase (COX)−2, Ki‐67, and erythropoietin receptor (EPOR) as immunohistochemical markers for determining the optimal treatment modality for early stage laryngeal carcinoma.

Methods

Tissue samples from 42 early stage laryngeal carcinomas treated with radiotherapy alone were analyzed immunohistochemically for the expression of 6 markers. The Kaplan–Meier method, univariate and multivariate analyses, and the Cox proportional hazards model were used to analyze the associations between patient and tumor characteristics and immunohistochemical results, and locoregional control.

Results

Increased expression of HIF‐1α and CA‐IX was significantly correlated with residual tumor; no correlations were observed for the other immunohistochemical markers.

Conclusion

High levels of HIF‐1α or CA‐IX expression were significantly correlated with residual tumor after radiotherapy for early stage laryngeal carcinomas. Alternative treatment modalities to primary radiotherapy should be considered for early stage laryngeal carcinomas showing high HIF‐1α or CA‐IX expression. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 37: 505–510, 2015
Evolution of Noninvasive Tests of Liver Fibrosis Is Associated With Prognosis in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C
Authors: Vergniol Julien , Boursier Jérôme , Coutzac Clélia , Bertrais Sandrine , Foucher Juliette , Angel Camille , Chermak Faiza , Hubert Isabelle Fouchard , Merrouche Wassil , Oberti Frédéric , de Lédinghen Victor , Calès Paul
Published: February 2014

No data are available about the prediction of long-term survival using repeated noninvasive tests of liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C (CHC). We aimed to assess the prognostic value of 3-year liver stiffness measurement (LSM), aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI), and fibrosis 4 (FIB-4) evolution in CHC. CHC patients with two LSM (1,000-1,500 days interval) were prospectively included. Blood fibrosis tests APRI and FIB-4 were calculated the day of baseline (bLSM) and follow-up (fLSM) LSM. Evolution of fibrosis tests was expressed as delta: (follow-up-baseline results)/duration. Date and cause of death were recorded during follow-up that started the day of fLSM. In all, 1,025 patients were included. Median follow-up after fLSM was 38.0 months (interquartile range [IQR]: 27.7-46.1) during which 35 patients died (14 liver-related death) and seven had liver transplantation. Prognostic accuracy (Harrell C-index) of multivariate models including baseline and delta results was not significantly different between LSM and FIB-4 (

P

≥ 0.24), whereas FIB-4 provided more accurate prognostic models than APRI (

P

= 0.03). By multivariate analysis including LSM variables, overall survival was independently predicted by bLSM, delta (dLSM), and sustained virological response (SVR). Prognosis was excellent in patients having bLSM <7 kPa, SVR, or no increase (<1 kPa/year) in 7-14 kPa bLSM. Prognosis was significantly impaired in patients with an increase (≥1 kPa/year) in 7-14 kPa bLSM, or decrease (≤0 kPa/year) in ≥14 kPa bLSM (

P

= 0.949 between these two groups). Patients with an increase (>0 kPa/year) in ≥14 kPa bLSM had the worst prognosis. Baseline and delta FIB-4 also identified patient subgroups with significantly different prognosis.

Conclusion :

Three-year evolution of noninvasive tests of liver fibrosis has a strong prognostic value in CHC patients. These tests should be repeated to monitor patients and predict their outcome. (Hepatology 2014;60:65-76)
Anterior–posterior cerebral blood volume gradient in human subiculum
Authors: Talati Pratik , Rane Swati , Kose Samet , Gore John , Heckers Stephan
Published: February 2014

The human hippocampal formation is characterized by anterior–posterior gradients of cell density, neurochemistry, and hemodynamics. In addition, some functions are associated with specific subfields (subiculum, CA1–4, dentate gyrus) and regions (anterior and posterior). We performed contrast‐enhanced, high‐resolution T1‐weighted 3T steady state (SS) imaging to investigate cerebral blood volume (CBV) gradients of the hippocampal formation. We studied 14 healthy subjects and found significant CBV gradients (anterior > posterior) in the subiculum but not in other hippocampal subfields. Since CBV is a marker of basal metabolism, these results indicate a greater baseline activity in the anterior compared with the posterior subiculum. This gradient might be related to the role of the subiculum as the main outflow station of the hippocampal formation and might have implications for the mechanisms of neuropsychiatric disorders. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Genetic variants in the IL1A gene region contribute to intestinal‐type gastric carcinoma susceptibility in European populations
Authors: Durães Cecília , Muñoz Xavier , Bonet Catalina , García Nadia , Venceslá Adoración , Carneiro Fátima , Peleteiro Bárbara , Lunet Nuno , Barros Henrique , Lindkvist Björn , Boutron‐Ruault Marie‐Christine , Bueno‐de‐Mesquita H. B(as) , Rizzato Cosmeri , Trichopoulou Antonia , Weiderpass Elisabete , Naccarati Allessio , Travis Ruth C. , Tjønneland Anne , Gurrea Aurelio Barricarte , Johansson Mattias , Riboli Elio , Figueiredo Céu , González Carlos Alberto , Capellà Gabriel , Machado José Carlos , Sala Núria
Published: February 2014

The most studied genetic susceptibility factors involved in gastric carcinoma (GC) risk are polymorphisms in the inflammation‐linked genes interleukin 1 (IL1) B and IL1RN. Despite the evidence pointing to the IL1 region, definite functional variants reproducible across populations of different genetic background have not been discovered so far. A high density linkage disequilibrium (LD) map of the IL1 gene cluster was established using HapMap to identify haplotype tagSNPs. Eighty‐seven SNPs were genotyped in a Portuguese case‐control study (358 cases, 1,485 controls) for the discovery analysis. A replication study, including a subset of those tagSNPs (43), was performed in an independent analysis (EPIC‐EurGast) containing individuals from 10 European countries (365 cases, 1284 controls). Single SNP and haplotype block associations were determined for GC overall and anatomopathological subtypes. The most robust association was observed for SNP rs17042407, 16Kb upstream of the IL1A gene. Although several other SNP associations were observed, only the inverse association of rs17042407 allele C with GC of the intestinal type was observed in both studies, retaining significance after multiple testing correction (p = 0.0042) in the combined analysis. The haplotype analysis of the IL1A LD block in the combined dataset revealed the association between a common haplotype carrying the rs17042407 variant and GC, particularly of the intestinal type (p = 3.1 × 10−5) and non cardia localisation (p = 4.6 × 10−3). These results confirm the association of IL1 gene variants with GC and reveal a novel SNP and haplotypes in the IL1A region associated with intestinal type GC in European populations.
LKB1 when associated with methylatedERα is a marker of bad prognosis in breast cancer
Authors: Bouchekioua‐Bouzaghou Katia , Poulard Coralie , Rambaud Juliette , Lavergne Emilie , Hussein Nader , Billaud Marc , Bachelot Thomas , Chabaud Sylvie , Mader Sylvie , Dayan Guila , Treilleux Isabelle , Corbo Laura , Le Romancer Muriel
Published: February 2014

Although the presence of nuclear estrogen receptor is widely used to guide breast cancer therapy, less attention has been paid to the receptor cytoplasmic signaling. Recently, we have shown that this pathway is operative in vivo and is activated in aggressive tumors representing a new potential target for breast cancer therapy. Here, we identified LKB1 as a partner of ERα and we explored its potential role in estrogen nongenomic signaling. The associations between LKB1 expression and the actors of this pathway, namely the methylated form of ERα (metERα), Src and PI3K, have been analyzed both in cultured cells and in 154 primary breast tumor samples. We found that LKB1 is a component of the cytoplasmic signaling complex in breast cell lines as well as in primary breast tumors. Moreover, an inverse correlation between the localization of LKB1 in nuclear and cytoplasmic compartments is observed. Importantly, high expression of cytoplasmic LKB1 is an independent marker of poor prognosis, associated with reduced overall survival (OS) and disease free survival (DFS). Conversely, the presence of nuclear LKB1 associates with increased OS and DFS. In conclusion, our results highlight that LKB1 expression in breast cancer appears to have opposite effects depending on its subcellular localization and may be used as a new prognostic biomarker.
A COMPARISON OF WHITE AND HISPANIC WOMEN'S STORIES OF ADJUSTMENT TO THE BIRTH OF A CHILD
Authors: Pollard Sara E. , Nievar M. Angela , Nathans Laura L. , Riggs Shelley A.
Published: February 2014

As part of a larger project designed to inform prevention and treatment of postpartum depression and promote positive mother–child relationships in diverse families, this study describes personal stories of postnatal adjustment from 14 White and 9 Hispanic women recruited from prenatal care clinics. Qualitative interviews conducted in the mothers’ primary language (English or Spanish) were analyzed using a modified grounded theory content‐analysis approach. The coding scheme developed to capture the women's discourse about their experiences included child temperament and health; intergenerational patterns; work demands and job loss; schedule changes; increased responsibilities; difficulties with parenting tasks; emotional distress; social stressors and resources; coping strategies; and changes in work, personal, social, and marital domains. More White mothers than Hispanic mothers reported changes in time structure, work stressors, use of psychotropic medication, informational support, and social support from other mothers and professionals; however, within‐group differences were more evident than were cross‐group ethnic differences. Analyses of qualitative interviews led to the integration of Belsky's Determinants of Parenting Model (1984) and the Double ABCX Model of Family Adjustment and Adaptation (McCubbin & Patterson, 1983) into a hybrid third theoretical framework.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell Trials for Pulmonary Diseases
Authors: Antunes Mariana A. , Laffey John G. , Pelosi Paolo , Rocco Patricia R.M.
Published: February 2014

All adult tissues, including the lung, have some capacity to self‐repair or regenerate through the replication and differentiation of stem cells resident within these organs. While lung resident stem cells are an obvious candidate cell therapy for lung diseases, limitations exist regarding our knowledge of the biology of these cells. In contrast, there is considerable interest in the therapeutic potential of exogenous cells, particularly mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs), for lung diseases. Bone marrow derived‐MSCs are the most studied cell therapy for these diseases. Preclinical studies demonstrate promising results using MSCs for diverse lung disorders, including emphysema, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, fibrosis, and acute respiratory distress syndrome. This mini‐review will summarize ongoing clinical trials using MSCs in lung diseases, critically examine the data supporting their use for this purpose, and discuss the next steps in the translational pathway for MSC therapy of lung diseases. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 1023–1032, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prostaglandin F2α Inhibits Adipogenesis Via an Autocrine‐Mediated Interleukin‐11/Glycoprotein 130/STAT1‐Dependent Signaling Cascade
Authors: Annamalai Damodaran , Clipstone Neil A.
Published: February 2014

Prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) is a potent inhibitor of adipocyte differentiation in vitro, that has also recently been implicated in the regulation of the adipogenic process in vivo, by opposing adipose tissue accretion and the subsequent development of obesity and its attendant metabolic consequences. In previous studies, we have demonstrated that PGF2α inhibits adipocyte differentiation by means of a calcium‐dependent signaling pathway that is critically dependent upon the activity of the calcineurin phosphatase. In the current study, we have now extended these findings to further elucidate the mechanism by which the PGF2α/calcineurin‐pathway inhibits the adipogenic process. We now report that the IL‐11 cytokine, a member of the gp130 cytokine co‐receptor‐related family, is a downstream transcriptional target of this pathway in 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes and is actively secreted in differentiating cells in response to PGF2α stimulation. Using a combined shRNA and dominant‐negative receptor mutant approach, we provide evidence that IL‐11/gp130‐signaling is required to mediate the inhibitory effects of PGF2α on adipogenesis. Moreover, by taking advantage of a well‐characterized panel of chimeric gp130 mutant receptors, we demonstrate that gp130 signaling is sufficient to inhibit adipocyte differentiation and specifically requires the activation of the STAT1 transcription factor. Conversely, we find that depleting endogenous STAT1 levels rescues adipogenesis in the presence of both IL‐11/gp130 signaling and PGF2α. Collectively, our findings support a model in which PGF2α inhibits adipocyte differentiation by means of an IL‐11 mediated autocrine negative feedback loop, that acts via gp130 to block adipogenesis through the essential actions of the STAT1 transcription factor. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 1308–1321, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Microsecond simulations of DNA and ion transport in nanopores with novel ion–ion and ion–nucleotides effective potentials
Authors: De Biase Pablo M. , Markosyan Suren , Noskov Sergei
Published: February 2014

We developed a novel scheme based on the grand‐canonical Monte Carlo/Brownian dynamics simulations and have extended it to studies of ion currents across three nanopores with the potential for single‐stranded DNA (ssDNA) sequencing: solid‐state nanopore Si3N4, α‐hemolysin, and E111N/M113Y/K147N mutant. To describe nucleotide‐specific ion dynamics compatible with ssDNA coarse‐grained model, we used the inverse Monte Carlo protocol, which maps the relevant ion–nucleotide distribution functions from all‐atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Combined with the previously developed simulation platform for Brownian dynamics simulations of ion transport, it allows for microsecond‐ and millisecond‐long simulations of ssDNA dynamics in the nanopore with a conductance computation accuracy that equals or exceeds that of all‐atom MD simulations. In spite of the simplifications, the protocol produces results that agree with the results of previous studies on ion conductance across open channels and provide direct correlations with experimentally measured blockade currents and ion conductances that have been estimated from all‐atom MD simulations. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Imaging and surgical planning for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Endo Itaru , Matsuyama Ryusei , Mori Ryutaro , Taniguchi Koichi , Kumamoto Takafumi , Takeda Kazuhisa , Tanaka Kuniya , Köhn Alexander , Schenk Andrea
Published: February 2014

Recent advances in multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) offer several benefits for management of perihilar tumors. Resection planning for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma should consider two factors: safety and curability. Recognition of individual anatomic variations is particularly important for avoiding intraoperative injury. In particular, hepatic arterial variations often restrict resection procedures. Extent of both longitudinal and vertical invasion by biliary tumors can be estimated from multiplanar reconstruction (MPR) images. Longitudinal extent of resection can be planned based on two anatomic landmarks, the U point and the P point, readily identifiable in preoperative 3‐dimensional (3D) images and by intraoperative inspection. Concerning vertical invasion, when direct vascular invasion is suspected from a finding of attachment of tumor and vessels such as portal veins and/or hepatic arteries without a thin low‐density plane of separation shown by MPR, these vessels should be resected en bloc with the tumor. Surgical team members can plan and simulate details of vascular resection and reconstruction using 3D images. Reduced operative morbidity and increased R0 resection rates are expected because of better planning of procedures. These techniques soon may increase long‐term survival for patients with perihilar cholangiocarcinoma.
Indications for portal vein embolization in perihilar cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Higuchi Ryota , Yamamoto Masakazu
Published: February 2014

Preoperative portal vein embolization (PVE) is often performed as a routine procedure before extended hepatectomy to minimize postoperative liver failure. However, the indications for PVE in perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (PCCA), which differ between institutions, remain controversial. In the present study, we examined the indications for PVE in patients with PCCA. A comprehensive meta‐analysis of PVE was performed using the PubMed, Medline, and Cochrane databases. The present study, which included 3033 patients (45 publications), compared the results of 836 cases in the PCCA group and 2197 cases in the other hepatic tumor (OHT) group. In the PCCA group, percent future remnant liver (%FRL) and ratio of %FRL to indocyanine green (ICG) were used as criteria in 71% and 25% of cases, respectively, and a %FRL < 40% was used as indication for PVE in 90% of cases. The rates of resection of the bile duct, simultaneous pancreaticoduodenectomy, and reconstruction of the portal vein and hepatic artery were high in the PCCA group (P < 0.001). Mortality after hepatectomy was 3.7% in the PCCA group and 1.9% in the OHT group (P < 0.001). The indication for PVE in PCCA patients is %FRL < 40% in many institutions. The indications for PVE in PCCA patients should be distinguished from those in other hepatic tumors because of the complex surgery required for PCCA.
Characterization of rotavirus genotypes before and after the introduction of a monovalent rotavirus vaccine in Colombia
Authors: Peláez‐Carvajal Dioselina , Cotes‐Cantillo Karol , Paternina‐Caicedo Angel , Gentsch Jon , de la Hoz‐Restrepo Fernando , Patel Manish
Published: February 2014

Strain monitoring for emergence of novel strains after the introduction of rotavirus vaccine is an integral component of routine rotavirus immunization programs. Using a laboratory based strain surveillance system between 2008 and 2012, a wide variation in strain pattern in Colombia was founded both before and after the introduction of a monovalent rotavirus vaccine in 2009. G2P[4], a strain fully heterotypic to the vaccine was predominant before vaccine introduction in 2008 (47%) and after vaccine introduction in 2010 (54%), 2011 (86%), and 2012 (32%). The presence of this strain before the introduction of vaccine and decreasing prevalence during the most recent surveillance year suggests secular variation rather than vaccine pressure as a cause for this fluctuation. While strain monitoring can be valuable after vaccine introduction, these surveillance data alone without information on disease incidence or strain specific vaccine effectiveness can be prone to misinterpretation with regard to the role of vaccine pressure on emergence of new or persistent strains. J. Med. Virol. 86:1083–1086, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Permeability of the blood–tumor barrier is enhanced by combining vascular endothelial growth factor with papaverine
Authors: Yang Zhi‐hang , Liu Li‐bo , Zhao Li‐ni , Liu Yun‐hui , Xue Yi‐xue
Published: February 2014

This study aims to determine the effects of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), papaverine (PA), and the combination of VEGF and PA on the permeability of the blood–tumor barrier (BTB) and to determine possible molecular mechanisms contributing to the effects. In the rat C6 glioma model, the extravasation of Evans blue (EB) through the BTB was increased significantly by VEGF and PA. VEGF‐induced and PA‐induced increase of EB extravasation was further increased after combining VEGF with PA infusion. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed that the combination of VEGF and PA not only opened tight junctions (TJ) dramatically but increased the presence of pinocytotic vesicles of brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) significantly. Meanwhile, the downregulation of the TJ‐associated proteins occludin and claudin‐5 and the upregulation of the caveolae structure proteins caveolin‐1 and caveolin‐2 caused by the combination of VEGF and PA were observed by Western blot and immunohistochemistry, which were more remarkable than those by the two strategies separately. In addition, after VEGF and PA infusion, the results of radioimmunoassay, Western blot, and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) revealed a significant increase in expression levels of cGMP and protein kinase G‐1 (PKG‐1) and the activation of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) p65. This study demonstrates that combination of VEGF and PA can increase the permeability of the BTB by a paracellular pathway (downregulation of occludin and claudin‐5) and a transcellular pathway (upregulation of caveolin‐1 and caveolin‐2) and that the cGMP/PKG/NF‐κB signal pathway might be involved in the modulation process. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pulsed electromagnetic fields potentiate neurite outgrowth in the dopaminergic MN9D cell line
Authors: Lekhraj Rukmani , Cynamon Deborah E. , DeLuca Stephanie E. , Taub Eric S. , Pilla Arthur A. , Casper Diana
Published: February 2014

Pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) exert biological effects and are in clinical use to facilitate bone repair and wound healing. Research has demonstrated that PEMF can induce signaling molecules and growth factors, molecules that play important roles in neuronal differentiation. Here, we tested the effects of a low‐amplitude, nonthermal, pulsed radiofrequency signal on morphological neuronal differentiation in MN9D, a dopaminergic cell line. Cells were plated in medium with 10% fetal calf serum. After 1 day, medium was replaced with serum‐containing medium, serum‐free medium, or medium supplemented with dibutyryl cyclic adenosine monophosphate (Bt2cAMP), a cAMP analog known to induce neurite outgrowth. Cultures were divided into groups and treated with PEMF signals for either 30 min per day or continuously for 15 min every hour for 3 days. Both serum withdrawal and Bt2cAMP significantly increased neurite length. PEMF treatment similarly increased neurite length under both serum‐free and serum‐supplemented conditions, although to a lesser degree in the presence of serum, when continuous treatments had greater effects. PEMF signals also increased cell body width, indicating neuronal maturation, and decreased protein content, suggesting that this treatment was antimitotic, an effect reversed by the inhibitor of cAMP formation dideoxyadenosine. Bt2cAMP and PEMF effects were not additive, suggesting that neurite elongation was achieved through a common pathway. PEMF signals increased cAMP levels from 3 to 5 hr after treatment, supporting this mechanism of action. Although neuritogenesis is considered a developmental process, it may also represent the plasticity required to form and maintain synaptic connections throughout life. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Temporal and spatial variability of frost‐free seasons in the Great Lakes region of the United States
Authors: Yu Lejiang , Zhong Shiyuan , Bian Xindi , Heilman Warren E. , Andresen Jeffrey A.
Published: February 2014

The frequency and timing of frost events and the length of the growing season are critical limiting factors in many human and natural ecosystems. This study investigates the temporal and spatial variability of the date of last spring frost (LSF), the date of first fall frost (FFF), and the length of the frost‐free season (FFS) in the Great Lakes region of the United States using two gridded reanalysis datasets for the period of 1980–2010. Across most of the Great Lakes region, there has been a negative trend for the LSF and a positive trend for the FFF, leading to a lengthening of FFS. The three variables vary spatially across the region and exhibit large interannual variability. Empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analyses indicate that the first mode for the three variables, which accounts for about 30% of the total variance, is in phase across most of the Great Lakes region and that it appears to be related to Pacific North American (PNA) pattern in the case of LSF and to Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) in the case of FFF and FFS. The main reason for these connections is that the 200‐hPa geopotential height anomaly over North America induced by a Rossby wave train influences the strength of the trough over North America, which in turn affects surface temperatures over the Great Lakes region. The second mode, explaining about 10% of the total variance, mainly shows the out‐of‐phase variability between the Great Lakes and the surrounding land and it appears to be related to the circumglobal teleconnection (CGT) in the case of LSF and again to PDO in the case of FFF and FFS.
Spatiotemporal patterns in the mean and extreme temperature indices of India, 1971–2005
Authors: Panda Dileep K. , Mishra A. , Kumar A. , Mandal K. G. , Thakur A. K. , Srivastava R. C.
Published: February 2014

This study provides the comprehensive analysis of changes in mean and extreme temperature indices of India to assist the climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies and to add information for the global comparisons, using a high‐resolution daily gridded temperature data set (1° × 1°) during 1971–2005. In addition to the indices recommended by the World Meteorological Organization/CLIVAR Expert Team on Climate Change Detection and Indices, few more indices having social and agricultural implication are investigated at the seasonal and annual scales, utilizing widely adopted statistical methodologies in climate research. The results show, in general, a robust signal of warming, broadly consistent with what has been observed and predicted in other parts of the world in the context of global warming. The frequency and intensity of warm extremes, especially representing the daily minimum temperature, have increased with simultaneous decreases in cold extremes in large parts of the country, but the spatial distribution of the trend magnitude reflects the complex natural climatic settings of India and its possible interaction with the anthropogenic forcing. Seasonal analysis reveals a faster warming in day and night temperatures in winter affecting the major wheat crop. In summer, however, both human and ecosystems appear to be more vulnerable to the increasing tendency of the heatwave occurrences, particularly during night‐time, since the 1990s. The relationship with the large‐scale natural climatic modes indicates that the warming indices tend to increase in the year following the El Niño events as evident from the correlation with the NINO3.4 index, with a relatively higher association in the monsoon season. Moreover, the concurrent correspondence of the summer heatwaves with the north Indian Ocean sea surface temperature suggests a degree of predictability of the heat stress episode.
The Chinese Version of the Revised Creativity Domain Questionnaire (CDQ‐R): First Evidence for its Factorial Validity and Systematic Association with the Big Five
Authors: Werner Christian H. , Tang Min , Kruse Joachim , Kaufman James C. , Spörrle Matthias
Published: February 2014

The present study examines the factor structure of a Chinese version of the Revised Creativity Domain Questionnaire (CDQ‐R; Kaufman, Waterstreet, Ailaouni, Whitcomb, Roe, & Riggs, 2009) as well as its relation to Big Five personality traits within a Chinese sample (N = 787). Analyses indicate the appropriateness of the Chinese version of the CDQ‐R in terms of internal consistency, factorial validity as well as convergent and divergent validity concerning the Big Five personality factors. Revealing some culture‐specific variation, confirmatory factor analysis indicated a slight superiority of a five‐factor model for this Chinese sample over the existing four‐factor model established with American samples. This higher level of differentiation in terms of one factor of the creativity domain could be explained on the basis of the specific characteristics of the Chinese culture.
Thinking Inside the Tool Box: Creativity, Constraints, and the Colossal Portraits of Chuck Close
Authors: Stokes Patricia D.
Published: February 2014

This article presents a problem‐solving model to examine the often problematic relationship between expertise and creativity. The model has two premises, each the opposite of a common cliché. The first cliché asserts that creativity requires thinking outside‐the‐box. The first premise argues that experts can only think and problem solve inside the tool boxes of their expertise. The second cliché, that creativity requires freedom from constraints, points to the problem with expertise. Free to do anything, experts repeat what has worked best in the past. A solution is suggested by the second premise: to circumvent the liabilities of expertise, creativity requires constraints of a particular paired kind. The model is introduced as an expansion of prior process models focused on problem identification and construction. Problem‐finding is reanalyzed as constraint‐finding. A case study shows how one recognized creator, painter Chuck Close, uses constraints as a tool to solve the expertise‐creativity problem.
Recovery of phosphorus fertilizer in potato as affected by application strategy and soil type
Authors: Ekelöf J. E. , Lundell J. , Asp H. , Jensen E. S.
Published: February 2014

Phosphorus (P) fertilizers are usually supplied prior to or at planting of potato even though most P is taken up 40 to 80 d after emergence. This may lead to inefficient P use as a result of P leaching or fixation in the soil. This study evaluates the effects of split P application at multiple times during the growth period according to the plant's need for P. Potato (Solanum tuberosum L. cv. Ditta) was grown in pots in climate chambers, and radioactive 32P isotope was used to distinguish between the fertilizer and soil‐derived P sources. Two soils were tested in combination with five application rates of P, and the plants were harvested at four dates. The results show that the recovery of P fertilizer can be significantly enhanced if the P supply is split. The result also showed that the proportion of soil‐derived P, accumulated in the plant, was significantly reduced both when more fertilizer P was applied to the soil and when P supply was split into several applications. The positive effects of multiple P applications on the P recovery were greatest in the soil with low P status and low buffer capacity.
Overlapping spectral features and new assignment of 2‐propanol in the C–H stretching region
Authors: Yu Yuanqin , Wang Yuxi , Hu Naiyin , Lin Ke , Zhou Xiaoguo , Liu Shilin
Published: February 2014

The vibrational spectra of gaseous and liquid 2‐propanol in the C–H stretching region of 2800 ~ 3100 cm−1 were investigated by polarized photoacoustic Raman spectroscopy and conventional Raman spectroscopy, respectively. Using two deuterated samples, that is, CH3CDOHCH3 and CD3CHOHCD3, the overlapping spectral features between the CH and CH3 groups were identified. With the aid of depolarization ratio measurements and density functional theory calculations, a new spectral assignment was presented. In the gas phase, the band at 2884 cm−1 was assigned to the overlapping of one CH3 Fermi resonance mode and a CH stretching of gauche conformer. The bands at 2917 and 2933 cm−1 were assigned to another two CH3 Fermi resonance modes, but the latter includes weak contribution from CH stretching of trans conformer. The bands at 2950 and 2983 cm−1 were assigned to CH3 symmetric and antisymmetric stretching, respectively. The spectral features of liquid 2‐propanol are similar to those in the gas phase except for the blue shift of CH and the red shift of CH3 band positions, which can be attributed to the intermolecular interaction in the liquid state. The new assignments not only clarify the confusions in previous studies from different spectral methods but also provide the reliable groundwork on spectral application of 2‐propanol in the futures. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.