bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analgesic and Anti‐inflammatory Activities of the Ethanol Extract of Taxillus tsaii Chiu in Mice
Authors: Liu Chia‐Yu , Chiu Yung‐Jia , Kuo Chao‐Lin , Chien Tzu‐Mei , Wu Lung‐Yuan , Peng Wen‐Huang
Published: June 2015

Preclinical Research

This study was conducted to investigate the analgesic activities and mechanism of anti‐inflammatory activities of a 50% ethanol extract of Taxillus tsaii (ETT) in vivo using the acetic acid induced writhing test and formalin induced paw licking in mice. The anti‐inflammatory effect of ETT was evaluated using a mouse model of λ‐carrageenan (Carr)‐induced paw edema. ETT reduced the writhing in the acetic acid assay test at a dose 1.0 g/kg po and reduced the licking time in the late phase of the formalin test at doses of 0.5 and 1.0 g/kg po). Carr‐induced paw edema was reduced when ETT (0.5 and 1.0 g/kg po) was administered 3–5 h after Carr injection. ETT (1.0 g/kg po) reduced the level of malondialdehyde in the edemic paw by increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes, e.g., superoxide dismutase and glutathione reductase, in the liver and reducing TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 activity in the edemic paw. This study demonstrates the analgesic and anti‐inflammatory effects of ETT, thus verifying its application in traditional Chinese medicine. Drug Dev Res 76 : 176–184, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Embryonic alcohol exposure: Towards the development of a zebrafish model of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
Authors: Gerlai Robert
Published: June 2015

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is a devastating disease of the brain caused by exposure to alcohol during prenatal development. Its prevalence exceeds 1%. The majority of FASD cases represent the milder forms of the disease which often remain undiagnosed, and even when diagnosed treatment options for the patient are limited due to lack of information about the mechanisms that underlie the disease. The zebrafish has been proposed as a model organism for exploring the mechanisms of FASD. Our laboratory has been studying the effects of low doses of alcohol during embryonic development in the zebrafish. This review discusses the methods of alcohol exposure, its effects on behavioral performance including social behavior and learning, and the potential underlying biological mechanisms in zebrafish. It is based upon a recent keynote address delivered by the author, and it focuses on findings obtained mainly in his own laboratory. It paints a promising future of this small vertebrate in FASD research. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 57: 787–798, 2015.
Generation of BAF53b‐Cre transgenic mice with pan‐neuronal Cre activities
Authors: Zhan Xiaoming , Cao Mou , Yoo Andrew S. , Zhang Zilai , Chen Lei , Crabtree Gerald R. , Wu Jiang I.
Published: June 2015

Molecular and functional studies of genes in neurons in mouse models require neuron‐specific Cre lines. The current available neuronal Cre transgenic or knock‐in lines either result in expression in a subset of neurons or expression in both neuronal and non‐neuronal tissues. Previously we identified BAF53b as a neuron‐specific subunit of the chromatin remodeling BAF complexes. Using a bacteria artificial chromosome (BAC) construct containing the BAF53b gene, we generated a Cre transgenic mouse under the control of BAF53b regulatory elements. Like the endogenous BAF53b gene, we showed that BAF53b‐Cre is largely neuron‐specific. In both central and peripheral nervous systems, it was expressed in all developing neurons examined and was not observed in neural progenitors or glial cells. In addition, BAF53b‐Cre functioned in primary cultures in a pan‐neuron‐specific manner. Thus, BAF53b‐Cre mice will be a useful genetic tool to manipulate gene expression in developing neurons for molecular, biochemical, and functional studies. genesis, 53:440–448, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Crystallization behaviour of binary fat blends containing shea stearin as hard fat
Authors: Danthine Sabine , Delatte Sophie , Blecker Christophe , Smith Kevin W. , Bhaggan Krishnadath
Published: June 2015

Filling fats are used in bakery and confectionery applications. These fats are made up of complex mixtures of triacylglycerols (TAG). The crystallization, melting behaviour and polymorphic stability of fat blends are determined by the behaviour of the TAGs that they contain. Filling functionalities are influenced by their fat composition but also by the processing conditions used for crystallization. In this study, the crystallization behaviour of fat blends, all based on shea stearin as hard fat (which is high in 1,3‐distearoyl‐2‐oleoyl glycerol (SOS)) combined with either sunflower oil, shea olein or rapeseed oil, were investigated by means of pulsed nuclear magnetic resonance (pNMR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). Blends containing either 30 or 40% shea stearin combined with one of the soft fats were selected as they met the criteria required for filling fats. Under static isothermal conditions (at 10°C, 15°C or 20°C), a two‐step crystallization was observed for those blends, which can be explained by polymorphic transitions from α‐form into more stable forms. All the selected blends exhibited different crystallization mechanisms according to the TAG composition of the liquid phase and their complementarity with TAG from the solid phase.

Practical applications: Results of this research are useful for the fat industry as they could help to develop new filling fats, based on shea stearin, with a reduced content of saturated fats, while maintaining the desired physical properties of such specific products.

pNMR isothermal crystallization curves obtained at 10°C (A), 15°C (B) and 20°C (C) for binary blend made of 30% shea stearin and 70% sunflower oil (plain lines) and binary blend made of 30% shea stearin and 70% shea olein (dashed lines) and corresponding XRD pattern collected at the end of the isothermal period (4 h). A1, B1, C1: 30% shea stearin/70%sunflower oil; A2, B2, C2: 30% shea stearin/70%shea olein.
Preparation and stability of astaxanthin solid lipid nanoparticles based on stearic acid
Authors: Li Miaomiao , Zahi Mohamed Reda , Yuan Qipeng , Tian Feibao , Liang Hao
Published: June 2015

Astaxanthin (ASTA), a natural pigment carotenoid, is endowed with remarkable antioxidant activity in food and cosmetic products. However, the utilization of ASTA is limited due to its poor water‐solubility, low bioavailability, and the decomposition under light, heat, and oxygen. In order to overcome these drawbacks, ASTA was encapsulated within solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs). ASTA‐SLNs, composed of lipid nucleation (ASTA, soybean oil, solid lipid matrix) and external water phase (Tween 20, deionized water), were prepared by high pressure homogenization (HPH). The contents of three different solid matrixes (stearic acid, glycerin monostearate, and glycerol distearates) and the preparation conditions (pressure and number of cycles) were optimized. Stearic acid (1 wt%) was selected on the basis of physico‐chemical properties of ASTA‐SLNs, such as mean particle size, zeta potential, and polydispersivity index (PDI). Moreover, ASTA‐SLNs exhibited good long‐term stability at 4 and 25°C, with no significant modification in the particle size. Comparative with the free ASTA, the chemical stability of ASTA in SLNs was significantly enhanced. Finally, the release experiments of ASTA‐SLNs showed that SLNs could provide prolonged release of ASTA in simulated gastric and intestinal juices.

Practical application: SLNs, a promising submicron drug delivery system, could be widely applied in food, cosmetics, drugs, and health products. In the fields of targeted delivery and controlled release of drugs, SLNs have attracted increasing attention. ASTA‐SLNs can be prepared into various pharmaceutical dosage forms, such as oral tablet, intravenous infusion, and percutaneous absorption, thus achieving a long‐time and stable therapeutic effect in small dosage. More importantly, based on the high pressure homogenization technology, ASTA‐SLNs can be produced in large‐scale.

Astaxanthin solid lipid nanoparticles (ASTA‐SLNs) were produced using high pressure homogenization. Internal lipid phase was prepared by adding the solid lipid matrix and ASTA into soybean oil with heating and stirring under a nitrogen atmosphere. External aqueous phase was prepared by dispersing Tween 20 (10% w/w) in deionized water. ASTA‐SLNs were obtained through dispersion, high pressure homogenization, and refrigeration. The physical characteristics, stability, release behavior of ASTA‐SLNs were measured.
An Online Electrochemical System for Continuous Measurement of Glutamate with Signal Amplification by Enzymatic Substrate Cycling
Authors: Zhang Zipin , Xiao Tongfang , Hao Jie , Yu Ping , Ohsaka Takeo , Mao Lanqun
Published: June 2015

This study demonstrates a new online electrochemical system (OECS) for continuous monitoring of glutamate by efficiently integrating in vivo microdialysis and selective electrochemical detection with an enhanced sensitivity through enzymatic substrate cycling. We find that the involvement of enzymatic substrate cycling in the biosensing scheme remarkably increases the sensitivity of the OECS toward the measurements of glutamate. Moreover, the OECS demonstrated here is stable, reproducible, and selective and could thus be potentially useful for continuous monitoring of glutamate release in central nervous system. This study essentially offers a new approach to the continuous measurements of cerebral glutamate release, which is believed to find interesting applications in understanding the molecular basis underlying brain functions.
Impact of Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy Experimental Variables on Adsorbed Protein Films, as Illustrated by Bovine Serum Albumin
Authors: MacDonald Michelle A. , Andreas Heather A.
Published: June 2015

Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) is often used to examine protein films, such as Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) films formed by incubation on platinum electrodes. Literature EIS experiments often vary in terms of whether blank EIS spectra are collected prior to film formation, whether a redox probe like ferricyanide is used, and the potential at which the EIS spectrum is collected. These experimental differences may lead to significant differences in the protein film and the results measured. This paper examines the impact of these factors on the Nyquist plots recorded for BSA films formed by adsorption on platinum electrodes.
Determination of Zirconium and Vanadium in Natural Waters by Adsorptive Stripping Voltammetry in the Presence of Cupferron, Oxalic Acid and 1,3‐Diphenylguanidine
Authors: Schneider Alexandre B. , Nascimento Paulo C. , Bohrer Denise , de Carvalho Leandro M. , Guarda Ananda , Krause Cristian , Wiethan Bruna A. , Koschinsky Andrea
Published: June 2015

A sequential AdSV method based on the accumulation of Zr(IV) and V(V) as cupferron‐oxalic acid‐1,3‐diphenylguanidine (COD) complexes at the HMDE was used to determine traces of these metals in samples with different ionic strengths. DP mode, Eads −0.6 and −0.2 V (vs. Ag/AgCl, 3 mol L−1 KCl), tads 400 and 20 s and 10 and 60 mV s−1 scan rates were used for Zr(IV) and V(V), respectively. Epeak were −0.95 (Zr(IV)‐COD) and −0.65 V(V(V)‐COD). The methodology was applied in samples of rivers, estuaries (in Germany and Brazil) and coastal and open seawater.
Rapid LC‐MRM‐MS assay for simultaneous quantification of choline, betaine, trimethylamine, trimethylamine N‐oxide, and creatinine in human plasma and urine
Authors: Zhao Xueqing , Zeisel Steven H , Zhang Shucha
Published: June 2015

There is a growing interest in analyzing choline, betaine, and their gut microbial metabolites including trimethylamine (TMA) and trimethylamine N‐oxide (TMAO) in body fluids due to the high relevance of these compounds for human health and diseases. A stable isotope dilution (SID)‐LC‐MRM‐MS assay was developed for the simultaneous determination of choline, betaine, TMA, TMAO, and creatinine in human plasma and urine. The assay was validated using quality control (QC) plasma samples, spiked at low, medium, and high levels. Freeze‐thaw stability was also evaluated. The utility of this assay for urine was demonstrated using a nutritional clinical study on the effect of various egg doses on TMAO production in humans. This assay has a wide dynamic range (R2 > 0.994) for all the analytes (choline: 0.122–250 μM; betaine: 0.488–1000 μM; TMA: 0.244–250 μM; TMAO: 0.061–62.5 μM; and creatinine: 0.977–2000 μM). High intra‐ and inter‐day precision (CV < 6%) and high accuracy (< 15% error) were observed from the QC plasma samples. The assay is reliable for samples undergoing multiple freeze‐thaw cycles (tested up to eight cycles). The assay also works for urine samples as demonstrated by a clinical study in which we observed a significant, positive linear response to various egg doses for urinary concentrations of all the analytes except creatinine. A rapid SID‐LC‐MRM‐MS assay for simultaneous quantification of choline, betaine, TMA, TMAO, and creatinine has been developed and validated, and is expected to find wide application in nutrition and cardiovascular studies as well as diagnosis and management of trimethylaminuria.
Allele frequency of 19 autosomal STR loci in the Bai population from the southwestern region of mainland China
Authors: Li Yi , Hong Yine , Li Xiujiang , Yang Jinmeng , Li Lanjiang , Huang Ying , Wang Chuanchao , Li Hui , Xu Bingying
Published: June 2015

The aim of this study was to investigate a 19 STR loci database using the Bai population from China. This multiplex amplification kit included 13 CODIS STR markers and six plus STR markers (D19S433, Penta E, D2S1338, Penta D, D6S1043, and D12S391) that were successfully analyzed by using 1158 DNA samples from the Bai population from the southwestern part of mainland China. These results indicate that this multiplex amplification kit may provide significant polymorphic information for kinship testing and relationship investigations.
Combined use of l‐alanine tert butyl ester lactate and trimethyl‐β‐cyclodextrin for the enantiomeric separations of 2‐arylpropionic acids nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs
Authors: Mavroudi Maria C. , Kapnissi‐Christodoulou Constantina P.
Published: June 2015

In this study, a new CE method, employing a binary system of trimethyl‐β‐CD (TM‐β‐CD) and a chiral amino acid ester‐based ionic liquid (AAIL), was developed for the chiral separation of seven 2‐arylpropionic acid nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In particular, the enantioseparation of ibuprofen, ketoprofen, carprofen, indoprofen, flurbiprofen, naproxen, and fenoprofen was improved significantly by supporting the BGE with the chiral AAIL l‐alanine tert butyl ester lactate (l‐AlaC4Lac). Parameters, such as concentrations of TM‐β‐CD and l‐AlaC4Lac, and buffer pH, were systematically examined in order to optimize the chiral separation of each NSAID. It was observed that the addition of the AAIL into the BGE improved both resolution and efficiency significantly. After optimization of separation conditions, baseline separation (Rs>1.5) of five of the analytes was achieved in less than 11 min, while the resolution of ibuprofen and flurbiprofen was approximately 1.2. The optimized enantioseparation conditions for all analytes involve a BGE of 5 mM sodium acetate/acetic acid (pH 5.0), an applied voltage of 30 kV, and a temperature of 20°C. In addition, the results obtained by computing the %‐RSD values of the EOF and the two enantiomer peaks, demonstrated excellent run‐to‐run, batch‐to‐batch, and day‐to‐day reproducibilities.
Application of a highly sensitive magnetic solid phase extraction for phytochemical compounds in medicinal plant and biological fluids by ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Cao Wan , Yi Ling , Ye Li‐Hong , Cao Jun , Hu Shuai‐Shuai , Xu Jing‐Jing , Peng Li‐Qing , Zhu Qiong‐Yao , Zhang Qian‐Yun
Published: June 2015

A highly sensitive method using reduced graphene oxide with iron oxide (rGO/Fe3O4) as the sorbent in magnetic SPE has been developed for the purification of five anthraquinones (emodin, rhein, aloeemodin, physcion, and chrysophanol) in rhubarb and rat urine by ultra‐HPLC coupled with quadrupole TOF/MS. The extraction was accomplished by adding trace amount rGO/Fe3O4 suspension to 200 mL of aqueous mixture, and the excellent adsorption capacity of the nanoparticles was fully demonstrated in this procedure. Under the optimized conditions, the calibration curves were linear in the concentration range of 0.05–27.77 ng/mL with correlation coefficients varying from 0.9902 to 0.9978. The LODs ranged from 0.28 to 58.99 pg/mL. The experimental results indicated that the proposed method was feasible for the analysis of anthraquinones in rhubarb and urine samples.
Reduced net charge and heterogeneity of pI isoforms in familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis mutants of copper/zinc superoxide dismutase
Authors: Roudeau Stéphane , Chevreux Sylviane , Carmona Asuncion , Ortega Richard
Published: June 2015

Familial cases of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (fALS) are related to mutations of copper/zinc superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1). Aggregation of SOD1 plays a central role in the pathogenesis of fALS and altered metallation of SOD1 mutants could be involved in this process. Using IEF gel electrophoresis under non‐denaturating conditions and particle induced X‐ray emission (PIXE) analysis, we studied the pI distribution and metallation status of fALS SOD1 mutants (A4V, G93A, D125H) compared to human wild‐type (hWT). SOD1 fALS mutants are characterized by a variable number of isoforms and higher pI compared to hWT, reflecting a reduced net charge that might explain their greater propensity to precipitation and aggregation. Cu/Zn ratios were slightly different for the predominant expressed isoforms of A4V, G93A, and D125H mutants compared to hWT. Differences in metallation were observed within each genotype, the more basic isoforms exhibiting lower Cu/Zn ratios. Moreover, we revealed the existence of a pool of fALS mutants SOD1 pI isoforms, slightly expressed (<10%), with a low Cu/Zn ratio and high pI values. Overall, IEF‐PIXE results suggest that the toxicity of SOD1 mutants should be studied at the pI isoform level with a particular attention to the species with the lowest charges.
Hydrogen Evolution Reaction in a Large‐Scale Reactor using a Carbon Nitride Photocatalyst under Natural Sunlight Irradiation
Authors: Schröder Marc , Kailasam Kamalakanan , Borgmeyer Julian , Neumann Maximilian , Thomas Arne , Schomäcker Reinhard , Schwarze Michael
Published: June 2015

In this study, we show the first hydrogen evolution performed in a large‐scale photoreactor under natural sunlight irradiation with a mesoporous carbon nitride photocatalyst immobilized on nine stainless steel plates by drop‐coating. Stable films were obtained producing approximately 18 L gaseous hydrogen within one month time on stream at an average hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) rate of 0.22 L kWh−1. The rate could be nicely predicted from preliminary lab‐scale experiments under well‐defined conditions. Furthermore, the hydrogen production correlates with the sunlight intensity. Based on the total energy input, a maximum solar‐to‐hydrogen (STH) conversion of 0.12 % was obtained.
Sentinel node biopsy performance after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in locally advanced breast cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mocellin Simone , Goldin Elena , Marchet Alberto , Nitti Donato
Published: June 2015

The use of sentinel node biopsy (SNB) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in patients with locally advanced breast cancer is debated. Our aim was to quantitatively review the available evidence on the performance of SNB after NAC in patients with locally advanced breast cancer. We performed a systematic review (by searching the PubMed, Cochrane and Scopus databases) and random effects meta‐analysis to investigate on the feasibility and accuracy of SNB in these patients. The two outcomes of interest were the sentinel node identification rate (SIR) and the false negative rate (FNR). Sensitivity analysis and meta‐regression were used to investigate the potential sources of between‐study heterogeneity. We retrieved 72 eligible studies enrolling 7,451 patients. Upon meta‐analysis, summary SIR resulted 89.6% [95% confidence interval (CI): 87.8–91.2; heterogeneity I2: 76.9%], which poorly compares with the 95% SIR observed in some recent series of early breast cancer. The summary FNR resulted 14.2% (CI: 12.5–16.0; heterogeneity I2: 29.1%), which was significantly higher than the 8–10% reference value. Considering an average post‐NAC lymph node positivity rate of 50%, the downstaging due to false negative SNB would occur in 7/100 patients (with an excess error rate of 2–3/100 as compared to the early‐stage setting). No plausible source of between‐study heterogeneity was found. Based on the largest series of studies ever meta‐analyzed, our findings highlight the limits of SNB performance in this population, where the impact of SNB on patient survival is still to be defined.
Aquaporin‐1 plays important role in proliferation by affecting cell cycle progression
Authors: Galán‐Cobo Ana , Ramírez‐Lorca Reposo , Toledo‐Aral Juan José , Echevarría Miriam
Published: June 2015

Aquaporin‐1 (AQP1) has been associated with tumor development. Here, we investigated how AQP1 may affect cell proliferation. The proliferative rate of adult carotid body (CB) cells, known to proliferate under chronic hypoxia, was analyzed in wild‐type (AQP1+/+) and knock out (AQP1−/−) mice, maintained in normoxia or exposed to hypoxia while BrdU was administered. Fewer numbers of total BrdU+ and TH‐BrdU+ cells were observed in AQP1−/− mice, indicating a role for AQP1 in CB proliferation. Then, by flow cytometry, cell cycle state and proliferation of cells overexpressing AQP1 were compared to those of wild‐type cells. In the AQP1‐overexpressing cells, we observed higher cell proliferation and percentages of cells in phases S and G2/M and fewer apoptotic cells after nocodazole treatment were detected by annexin V staining. Also in these cells, proteomic assays showed higher expression of cyclin D1 and E1 and microarray analysis revealed changes in many cell proliferation‐related molecules, including, Zeb 2, Jun, NF‐kβ, Cxcl9, Cxcl10, TNF, and the TNF receptor. Overall, our results indicate that the presence of AQP1 modifies the expression of key cell cycle proteins apparently related to increases in cell proliferation. This contributes to explaining the presence of AQP1 in many different tumors. J. Cell. Physiol. 230: 243–256, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enhanced analgesic effects of tramadol and common trace element coadministration in mice
Authors: Alexa Teodora , Marza Aurelia , Voloseniuc Tudor , Tamba Bogdan
Published: June 2015

Chronic pain is managed mostly by the daily administration of analgesics. Tramadol is one of the most commonly used drugs, marketed in combination with coanalgesics for enhanced effect. Trace elements are frequent ingredients in dietary supplements and may enhance tramadol's analgesic effect either through synergic mechanisms or through analgesic effects of their own. Swiss Weber male mice were divided into nine groups and were treated with a combination of the trace elements Mg, Mn, and Zn in three different doses and a fixed dose of tramadol. Two groups served as positive (tramadol alone) and negative (saline) controls. Nociceptive assessment by tail‐flick (TF) and hot‐plate (HP) tests was performed at baseline and at 15, 30, 45, and 60 min after intraperitoneal administration. Response latencies were recorded and compared with the aid of ANOVA testing. All three trace elements enhanced tramadol's analgesic effect, as assessed by TF and HP test latencies. Coadministration of these trace elements led to an increase of approximately 30% in the average pain inhibition compared with the tramadol‐alone group. The most effective doses were 0.6 mg/kg b.w. for Zn, 75 mg/kg b.w. for Mg, and 7.2 mg/kg b.w. for Mn. Associating trace elements such as Zn, Mg, and Mn with the standard administration of tramadol increases the drug's analgesic effect, most likely a consequence of their synergic action. These findings impact current analgesic treatment because the addition of these trace elements may reduce the tramadol dose required to obtain analgesia. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ionic liquid and aqueous two‐phase extraction based on salting‐out coupled with high‐performance liquid chromatography for the determination of seven rare ginsenosides in Xue‐Sai‐Tong injection
Authors: Li Lan‐Jie , Jin Yong‐Ri , Wang Xiao‐Zhong , Liu Ying , Wu Qian , Shi Xiao‐Lei , Li Xu‐Wen
Published: June 2015

A method of ionic liquid salt aqueous two‐phase extraction coupled with high‐performance liquid chromatography has been developed for the analysis of seven rare ginsenosides including Rg6, F4, 20(S)‐Rg3, 20(R)‐Rg3, Rk3, Rk1, and Rg5 in Xue‐Sai‐Tong injection. The injection was mixed with ionic liquid 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bromide aqueous solution, and a mixture was obtained. With the addition of sodium dodecyl sulfate and dipotassium phosphate into the mixture, the aqueous two‐phase mixture was formed after ultrasonic treatment and centrifuged. Rare ginsenosides were extracted into the upper phase. To obtain a high extraction factors, various influences were considered systematically, such as the volume of ionic liquid, the category and amount of salts, the amount of sodium dodecyl sulfate, the pH value of system, and the time of ultrasonic treatment. Under the optimal condition, rare ginsenosides in Xue‐Sai‐Tong injection were enriched and detected, the recoveries of seven rare ginsenosides ranged from 90.05 to 112.55%, while relative standard deviations were lower than 2.50%. The developed method was reliable, rapid and sensitive for the determination of seven rare ginsenosides in the injections.
Will Your Workplace Conduct Rules Pass Muster With the NLRB?
Authors: DeMaria Alfred T.
Published: June 2015

It seems an issue of Management Report has seldom gone by over the past few years without at least one report of a case where the National Labor Relations Board has found that a nonunionized employer maintained unlawful work rules. As a remedy, the Board requires the employer to revise its rules and to publish an admission to all employees that it has maintained unlawful rules. These cases make clear that a company's normal workplace conduct and behavior rules could make it a target of the NLRB, even when the rules were reviewed and approved by the company's lawyers. This column looks at the effect of the National Labor Relations Act, as the NLRB currently interprets it, on rules for conduct and behavior. We also make suggestions on how to avoid the risk of having rules dragged before the NLRB for review.
Maxillary reconstruction with a double‐barrel osteocutaneous fibular flap and arteriovenous saphenous loop after a globe‐sparing total maxillectomy—A Case Report
Authors: Chen Szu‐han , Hung Kuo‐shu , Lee Yao‐chou
Published: June 2015

Maxillary reconstruction using titanium mesh or bone grafts can invite unwanted complications, such as graft resorption, infection, and mesh exposure, especially for patients who require postoperative radiotherapy. Here, we reported a 58‐year‐old male patient who was diagnosed with maxillary sinus squamous cell carcinoma. The patient received cancer ablation by a globe‐sparing total maxillectomy and was immediately reconstructed with a double‐barrel osteocutaneous fibular flap to simultaneously restore the alveolar ridge, orbital support, and oro‐sinonasal separation. The short pedicle length inherent in the double‐barrel design of the fibular flap and the depletion of healthy recipient vessels in the midface after cancer ablation were overcome by creating an arteriovenous saphenous loop in the neck region. Though there was venous congestion on postoperative day 2, the postoperative recovery was uneventful after the revision of the venous anastomoses. During the 6‐months follow‐up, the outcome was functionally and aesthetically satisfactory. We believe that the double‐barrel fibular osteocutaneous flap, which avoids using titanium mesh and bone grafts, may be a viable reconstructive option in cancer patients with globe‐sparing total maxillectomy defects, especially for those who require postoperative radiotherapy. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 37:334–338, 2017.
Sensitive imaging of magnetic nanoparticles for cancer detection by active feedback MR
Authors: Li Zhao , Hsu Chao‐Hsiung , Dimitrov Nikolay , Hwang Dennis W. , Chang Hsin‐Wei , Hwang Lian‐Pin , Lin Yung‐Ya
Published: June 2015

Purpose

Sensitive imaging of superparamagnetic nanoparticles or aggregates is of great importance in MR molecular imaging and medical diagnosis. For this purpose, a conceptually new approach, termed active feedback magnetic resonance, was developed.

Methods

In the presence of the Zeeman field, a dipolar field is induced by the superparamagnetic nanoparticles or aggregates. Such dipolar field creates spatial and temporal (due to water diffusion) variations to the precession frequency of the nearby water 1H magnetization. Sensitive imaging of magnetic nanoparticles or aggregates can be achieved by manipulating the intrinsic spin dynamics by selective self‐excitation and fixed‐point dynamics under active feedback fields.

Results

Phantom experiments of superparamagnetic nanoparticles; in vitro experiments of brain tissue with blood clots; and in vivo mouse images of colon cancers, with and without labeling by magnetic nanoparticles, suggest that this new approach provides enhanced, robust, and positive contrast in imaging magnetic nanoparticles or aggregates for cancer detection.

Conclusion

The spin dynamics originated from selective self‐excitation and fixed‐point dynamics under active feedback fields have been shown to be sensitive to dipolar fields generated by magnetic nanoparticles. Magn Reson Med 74:33–41, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Monitoring dynamic alterations in calcium homeostasis by T1‐mapping manganese‐enhanced MRI (MEMRI) in the early stage of small intestinal ischemia–reperfusion injury
Authors: Zhao Da‐wei , Zhang Le‐tian , Cheng Hai‐yun , Zhang Yu‐long , Min Jia‐yan , Xiao Hua‐liang , Wang Yi
Published: June 2015

Manganese‐enhanced MRI studies have proven to be useful in monitoring physiological activities associated with calcium ions (Ca2+) due to the paramagnetic property of the manganese ion (Mn2+), which makes it an excellent probe of Ca2+. In this study, we developed a method in which a Mn2+‐enhanced T1‐map MRI could enable the monitoring of Ca2+ influx during the early stages of intestinal ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury. The Mn2+ infusion protocol was optimized by obtaining dose‐dependent and time‐course wash‐out curves using a Mn2+‐enhanced T1‐map MRI of rabbit abdomens following an intravenous infusion of 50 mmol/l MnCl2 (5–10 nmol/g body weight (BW)). In the rabbit model of intestinal I/R injury, T1 values were derived from the T1 maps in the intestinal wall region and revealed a relationship between the dose of the infused MnCl2 and the intestinal wall relaxation time. Significant Mn2+ clearance was also observed over time in control animals after the infusion of Mn2+ at a dose of 10 nmol/g BW. This technique was also shown to be sensitive enough to monitor variations in calcium ion homeostasis in vivo after small intestinal I/R injury. The T1 values of the intestinal I/R group were significantly lower (P < 0.05) than that of the control group at 5, 10, and 15 min after Mn2+ infusion. Our data suggest that MnCl2 has the potential to be an MRI contrast agent that can be effectively used to monitor changes in intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis during the early stages of intestinal I/R injury. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Occupational Therapy Interventions in Chronic Pain – A Systematic Review
Authors: Hesselstrand Malin , Samuelsson Kersti , Liedberg Gunilla
Published: June 2015

The use of interventions based on the best available evidence in occupational therapy is essential, and evaluation of research is part of an evidence‐based practice. The aim of this study was to assess the quality of studies describing and evaluating the effects of occupational therapy interventions on chronic pain. A systematic review of studies with diverse designs was carried out. A quality assessment was conducted, and the level of evidence was defined using the Research Pyramid Model. Of 19 included studies, three received the highest evidence level, and three were considered to be of high quality. The clinical recommendations that can be derived from this study are the following: occupational therapy interventions should start from the identified needs of the person with chronic pain; no support exists for the effectiveness of electromyographic biofeedback training as a supplement, more studies are needed to confirm this result; the efficacy of instructions on body mechanics was significant during work‐hardening treatment; and occupational therapists need to perform and present more clinical studies of high quality and high‐evidence level to build up a trustworthy arsenal of evidence‐based interventions, for example, in persons with chronic pain. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermal and mechanical properties of liquid‐like trisilanol isobutyl‐polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS) derivative/epoxy nanocomposites
Authors: Bai Haipeng , Zheng Yaping , Yang Ruilu , Zhang Aibo , Wang Nan
Published: June 2015

Liquid‐like trisilanol isobutyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes derivative (L‐POSS‐D) was synthesized with γ‐(2,3‐epoxypropoxy)propytrimethoxysilane (KH560) as corona and polyetheramine M1000 as canopy. Its structure and properties were characterized by FTIR, XPS, TGA and Rheology data. Epoxy nanocomposites with 0.0, 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 wt% content of L‐POSS‐D were prepared. Tg of the nanocomposites improved 47.6°C higher than pure epoxy resin. Mechanical properties, including flexural strength and impact toughness, were improved markedly with L‐POSS‐D. The morphologies of impact fracture were studied by SEM. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:691–698, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Water absorption and mechanical properties of PP/HIPS hybrid composites filled with wood flour
Authors: Ayrilmis Nadir , Taşdemir Münir , Akbulut Turgay
Published: June 2015

Water absorption and mechanical performance of the injection‐molded hybrid composites prepared from different ratios of two polymer blends (57 wt%), two compatibilizers (3 wt%), and two wood species (40 wt%) were investigated. The ratio of polypropylene and high‐impact polystyrene (HIPS) gradually increased in the blend (from 10 to 30 wt%). Styrene–ethylene–butylene–styreneblock copolymer and maleic anhydride‐grafted PP (MAPP) were used as compatibilizer (3 wt%). The shore D hardness of the PP/wood composites was improved by the incorporation of the HIPS. The HIPS/wood flour composites showed higher tensile modulus but lower tensile strength than the PP/wood composites. The water resistance of the PP/wood composites decreased with increasing HIPS content. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:863–869, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Maternal mosaicism for a large segmental duplication of 18q as a secondary finding following non‐invasive prenatal testing and implications for test accuracy
Authors: Flowers Nicola , Kelley Joanne , Sigurjonsson Styrmir , Bruno Damien L. , Pertile Mark D.
Published: June 2015

What's already known about this topic?

Non‐invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) of cell‐free DNA from maternal plasma is a sensitive method of identifying pregnancies at risk of trisomies 21, 18 and 13.

This technology analyses both maternal and fetal cell‐free DNA in the maternal plasma.

Abnormal NIPT results should be confirmed with invasive testing.

What does this study add?

Structural imbalances of fetal chromosomes may be identified occasionally during NIPT.

Maternal mosaicism for an unbalanced structural chromosomal rearrangement may be a rare cause of increased risk NIPT results.
Degradable poly(ester triazole)s based on renewable resources
Authors: Hakkou Khalid , Bueno‐Martínez Manuel , Molina‐Pinilla Inmaculada , Galbis Juan A.
Published: June 2015

The copper(I)‐catalyzed alkyne‐azide cycloaddition (CuAAC) click polymerization has been used to obtain novel linear poly(ester triazole)s by reaction ofbis‐alkyne having ester linkage andbis‐azido monomers, most of them derived from carbohydrates, such as glucose, arabinose, and erythrose, and therefore coming from natural renewable resources. The resulting polyesters had weight‐average molecular weights in the 11,500–148,000 range and were characterized by GPC, IR, and NMR spectroscopies. Thermal studies revealed them to be amorphous and stable up to 200 °C under nitrogen. Degradation studies showed that they were hydrolytically degradable. These studies were carried out at 50 °C in phosphate buffer solution at pH 7.4, and were monitored by GPC, and NMR spectroscopy. Finally, novel network hydrogels were obtained by crosslinking reaction of the poly(ester triazole) chains with hexamethylene diisocyanate. The water absorption and the kinetic parameters of the networks were studied. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem.2015,53, 2481–2493
The effect of amide solvent structure on the direct arylation polymerization (DArP) of 2‐Bromo‐3‐hexylthiophene
Authors: Rudenko Andrey E. , Thompson Barry C.
Published: June 2015

In this work, we investigate the influence of the amide solvent chemical structure on the properties of poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) prepared via direct arylation polymerization (DArP). Our findings indicate that for successful polymerization the amide must possess an acyclic aliphatic structure since cyclization of an amide results in a complete shutdown of DArP reactivity as evidenced by failed polymerization in N‐methylpyrrolidone, whereas the presence of an aromatic motif renders the amide solvent susceptible to CH activation and leads to incorporation of the solvent structure into the P3HT backbone, as demonstrated on the example of N,N‐diethylbenzamide. Additionally, we observed that the steric bulk of alkyl substituents on both the nitrogen atom and the carbonyl group within the amide structure has to be delicately balanced for optimal DArP reactivity. In the optimal cases, P3HT is obtained in high yield, with high molecular weight and contains a minimal amount of structural defects. The obtained polymer samples were comprehensively studied in terms of their chemical structure, optical, thermal and solid‐state properties in thin films using GPC analysis, 1H NMR, MALDI, UV–vis, GIXRD spectroscopy, and DSC. We additionally note a drastic difference of the amide solvent effect between DArP and Stille polymerization. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2015, 53, 2494–2500
Satisfaction with support versus size of network: differential effects of social support on psychological distress in parents of pediatric cancer patients
Authors: Harper Felicity W. K. , Peterson Amy M. , Albrecht Terrance L. , Taub Jeffrey W. , Phipps Sean , Penner Louis A.
Published: June 2015

Objective

This study examined the direct and buffering effects of social support on longer‐term global psychological distress among parents coping with pediatric cancer. In both sets of analyses, we examined whether these effects depended on the dimension of social support provided (i.e., satisfaction with support versus size of support network).

Method

Participants were 102 parents of pediatric cancer patients. At study entry, parents reported their trait anxiety, depression, and two dimensions of their social support network (satisfaction with support and size of support network). Parents subsequently reported their psychological distress in 3‐ and 9‐month follow‐up assessments.

Results

Parents' satisfaction with support had a direct effect on longer‐term psychological distress; satisfaction was negatively associated with distress at both follow‐ups. In contrast, size of support network buffered (moderated) the impact of trait anxiety and depression on later distress. Parents with smaller support networks and higher levels of trait anxiety and depression at baseline had higher levels of psychological distress at both follow‐ups; for parents with larger support networks, there was no relationship.

Conclusion

Social support can attenuate psychological distress in parents coping with pediatric cancer; however, the nature of the effect depends on the dimension of support. Whereas interventions that focus on increasing satisfaction with social support may benefit all parents, at‐risk parents will likely benefit from interventions that ensure they have an adequate number of support resources. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Safety of paediatric tracheal intubation after non‐invasive ventilation failure
Authors: Crulli Benjamin , Loron Gauthier , Nishisaki Akira , Harrington Karen , Essouri Sandrine , Emeriaud Guillaume
Published: June 2015

Context: Non‐invasive ventilation (NIV) is increasingly used in pediatric intensive care units to limit the complications associated with intubation. However, NIV may fail, and the delay in initiating invasive ventilation may be associated with adverse outcomes. The objective of this retrospective study was to evaluate the safety of tracheal intubation after NIV failure. Methods: Consecutive tracheal intubation procedures were prospectively evaluated in our PICU from 01/2011 to 02/2012, as part of the National Emergency Airway Registry for Children (NEAR4KIDS) collaborative. The incidence of severe tracheal intubation associated events (TIAEs, including cardiac arrest, esophageal intubation with delayed recognition, emesis with aspiration, hypotension requiring intervention, laryngospasm, malignant hyperthermia, pneumothorax, and pneumomediastinum) and severe desaturation (below 80% when pre‐intubation saturation was greater than 94%) were recorded prospectively. NIV use before intubation was retrospectively assessed. Results: 100 consecutive intubation events were analyzed, 46 of which followed NIV failure. NIV exposed and non‐exposed groups had different baseline characteristics, with lower weight, more frequent lower airway and lung disorder, and lower PIM2 score at admission in NIV failure patients (all P <0.05). The nasal route for intubation was more frequent in NIV patients (P < 0.01). The incidence of severe TIAE or desaturation was 41% in the NIV failure group and 24% in primarily intubated patients (P = 0.09). Conclusion: Complications occurred in 41% of intubations after NIV failure in this series. Further research is warranted to evaluate strategies to prevent these complications and to identify conditions in which intubation should not be delayed for a trial of NIV. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2016;51:165–172. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A comparison of invasive and noninvasive ventilation in children less than 1 year of age: A long‐term follow‐up study
Authors: Kherani Tamizan , Sayal Aarti , Al‐Saleh Suhail , Sayal Priya , Amin Reshma
Published: June 2015

Background

We report on the long‐term survival of children initiated on invasive and noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NiPPV) before the age of 1 to assess the safety and efficacy of long‐term ventilation at home.

Methods

A chart review was performed of children initiated on long‐term home mechanical ventilation (LTHV) before the age of 1 year, at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), Canada, between January 1991 and April 2014.

Results

We report on 51 children. Twenty‐five children (49%) received NiPPV and 26 (51%) received invasive mechanical ventilation via tracheostomy (IMV). There was one NiPPV initiation between 1991 and 2001, the rest were in subsequent years. Most children had a “musculoskeletal disorder” in the NiPPV cohort, n = 14 (56%) and a “central nervous system” disorder in the IMV cohort, n = 13 (50%). The pCO2 improved with the initiation of NiPPV, P = <0.0001. Of the 25 subjects initiated on NiPPV, eight (32%) are currently being followed as compared to 22 (84%) in the IMV cohort. Seven (28%) of the NiPPV group were weaned off ventilation as compared to three (11.5%) in the IMV cohort. There were two NiPPV treatment failures. There were more deaths in the NiPPV cohort: eight (32%) versus two (7.6%) in the IMV cohort. Four of the deaths in the NiPPV cohort were in children in whom a palliative approach was taken. None were due to NiPPV technical failure.

Conclusions

Based on this long‐term follow‐up study, NiPPV use in infants appears to be a viable long‐term ventilation strategy. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2016;51:189–195. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Chronicling Kenyan Asian Diasporic Histories: ‘Newcomers’, ‘Established’ Migrants, and the Post‐Colonial Practices of Time‐Work
Authors: Dickinson Jen
Published: June 2015

Recent studies of international migration have observed its increasing complexity. Circular, return, and temporary migration between India and Kenya, arising from the economic and political multipolarities of increasing South‐South partnerships, is one example of such complexity. These flows are distinct from the migration patterns of the longer‐established Kenyan Asian diaspora, who settled under the auspices of the British Empire from the 1890s until the beginning of the 1960s. This paper explores how these transformations are negotiated through the dynamics of Kenyan Asians' ongoing post‐colonial liminalities and ambiguities of citizenship, focusing in particular on the temporal production of distinctions between ‘newcomers’ and ‘established’ migrants, even when in practice these distinctions are much more fluid. This paper highlights the regulatory practices of ‘time‐work’ that enfold the migratory chronologies of ‘established’ migrants into the time of the nation, whilst excluding those of ‘newcomers’. It explores the selective remembering, forgetting, and reworking of the colonial past, a process informed by the dynamics of modernity, diaspora, nation, and postcoloniality in contemporary Kenya. It argues that whilst distinctions between ‘established’ and ‘newcomer’ migrants might reflect different positionings in transnational social fields, differences are also negotiated in contradictions between the experiences, meanings, and understandings of time. This demonstrates how space on its own is itself a inadequate conceptual lens with which to examine relationships between ‘newcomers’ and ‘established’ migrants, and that further research is needed that attends to the temporal dynamics mediating the temporal dissonances of contemporary transnational social fields. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.