bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Which came first: The lizard or the egg? Robustness in phylogenetic reconstruction of ancestral states
Authors: Wright April M. , Lyons Kathleen M. , Brandley Matthew C. , Hillis David M.
Published: July 2015

Changes in parity mode between egg‐laying (oviparity) and live‐bearing (viviparity) have occurred repeatedly throughout vertebrate evolution. Oviparity is the ancestral amniote state, and viviparity has evolved many times independently within amniotes (especially in lizards and snakes), with possibly a few reversions to oviparity. In amniotes, the shelled egg is considered a complex structure that is unlikely to re‐evolve if lost (i.e., it is an example of Dollo's Principle). However, a recent ancestral state reconstruction analysis concluded that viviparity was the ancestral state of squamate reptiles (lizards and snakes), and that oviparity re‐evolved from viviparity many times throughout the evolutionary history of squamates. Here, we re‐evaluate support for this provocative conclusion by testing the sensitivity of the analysis to model assumptions and estimates of squamate phylogeny. We found that the models and methods used for parity mode reconstruction are highly sensitive to the specific estimate of phylogeny used, and that the point estimate of phylogeny used to suggest that viviparity is the root state of the squamate tree is far from an optimal phylogenetic solution. The ancestral state reconstructions are also highly sensitive to model choice and specific values of model parameters. A method that is designed to account for biases in taxon sampling actually accentuates, rather than lessens, those biases with respect to ancestral state reconstructions. In contrast to recent conclusions from the same data set, we find that ancestral state reconstruction analyses provide highly equivocal support for the number and direction of transitions between oviparity and viviparity in squamates. Moreover, the reconstructions of ancestral parity state are highly dependent on the assumptions of each model. We conclude that the common ancestor of squamates was oviparous, and subsequent evolutionary transitions to viviparity were common, but reversals to oviparity were rare. The three putative reversals to oviparity with the strongest phylogenetic support occurred in the snakesEryx jayakariandLachesis, and the lizard,Liolaemus calchaqui. Our results emphasize that because the conclusions of ancestral state reconstruction studies are often highly sensitive to the methods and assumptions of analysis, researchers should carefully consider this sensitivity when evaluating alternative hypotheses of character‐state evolution.J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 324B: 504–516, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Combination of sequence‐defined oligoaminoamides with transferrin‐polycation conjugates for receptor‐targeted gene delivery
Authors: Zhang Wei , Rödl Wolfgang , He Dongsheng , Döblinger Markus , Lächelt Ulrich , Wagner Ernst
Published: July 2015

Background

Transferrin receptor (TfR), over‐expressed on a majority of malignant cells, has been widely studied as a target for drug, protein and gene delivery. Both stable nucleic acid compact ability and efficient cytosol gene release capability are essential for the success of gene delivery.

Methods

In the present study, a novel nonviral TfR‐targeted gene delivery system was developed based on sequence‐defined cationic oligoaminoamide oligomers with endolysosomal buffer capacity and DNA binding transferrin (Tf) polycation conjugates.

Results

Gene transfer activities were significantly increased in a series of TfR over‐expressing human tumour cell lines (K562, DU145 and KB) with mixed ternary polyplexes containing Tf‐conjugates and 3‐arm (386 and 689) or 4‐arm (577, 579 and 607) sequence‐defined oligomers. Especially polyplexes containing a histidine‐rich 4‐arm oligomer (607) and Tf‐PEG‐PEI achieved a 100‐fold increase in gene expression compared to previously established formulations. Tf competition experiments indicate enhanced polyplex internalization via TfR as prerequisite for the high transfection activity. The additional histidines in the oligoaminoamide oligomer structure are required for more effective endolysosomal escape of the gene delivery vehicle. Polyplexes formed by first mixing pDNA with the oligomer as a cationic core, followed by the addition of the Tf‐polycation conjugate for presentation at the exterior nanoparticles, exhibited the highest transfection activity.

Conclusions

Utilizing the synergistic effects of Tf for receptor targeting and oligomer for packaging and endolysosomal escape, an efficient gene delivery carrier was developed. The mixed polyplex containing Tf‐polycation conjugates and histidinylated 4‐arm oligomer with succinoyl tetraethylene pentamine or glutaroyltriethylene tetramine building blocks exhibited the highest gene transfection efficiency in TfR over‐expressing human tumour cell lines. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An Efficient Method for Synthesis of Tofacitinib Citrate
Authors: Zhi Shuang , Liu Dengke , Liu Ying , Liu Bingni , Wang Donghua , Chen Ligong
Published: July 2015

An efficient and mild synthetic method was developed for tofacitinib citrate from 3‐amino‐4‐methylpyridine and 4‐chloro‐7H‐pyrrolo[2,3‐d]pyrimidine. The related reactions were systematically optimized. Sodium hydride instead of potassium tert‐butoxide employed in the methoxycarbonylation reaction of compound 9 made the reaction proceed effectively to present compound 8 in a better yield. The replacement of benzaldehyde with benzyl bromide simplified the protection process of amino group. Red‐Al provided a cost‐effective method for the reduction of amides. The introduction of tosyl group into compound 10 enhanced the nucleophilic substitution of 10 with compound 4 dramatically. Thus, under the optimized conditions, tofacitinib citrate was obtained in 13.3% yield (based on compound 9) with a purity of 99.9%, much better than the reported yield 8.6%. This cost‐effective and environmental friendly process is more suitable for scale‐up production.
Design and Synthesis of Novel Triazolyl Benzoxazine Derivatives and Evaluation of Their Antiproliferative and Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Khan Abdullah , Prasad Suchita , Parmar Virinder S. , Sharma Sunil K.
Published: July 2015

A series of novel triazolyl benzoxazine derivatives have been synthesized via Cu(I)‐catalyzed ‘Click’ cycloaddition. All of the compounds were fully characterized from their spectral data, and their antiproliferative activity was evaluated against three selected human cancer cell lines: cervical cancer cells (HeLa), colorectal adenocarcinoma (HT‐29), and ovarian adenocarcinoma (SKOV‐3). A few representative compounds have also been evaluated for their antibacterial potential against two bacterial strains Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus subtilis.
Zonal differences in meniscus MR relaxation times in response to in vivo static loading in knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Calixto Nathaniel E. , Kumar Deepak , Subburaj Karupppasamy , Singh Justin , Schooler Joseph , Nardo Lorenzo , Li Xiaojuan , Souza Richard B. , Link Thomas M. , Majumdar Sharmila
Published: July 2015

This study assessed the effects of static loading on MRI relaxation times of menisci in individuals with and without radiographic knee OA. High‐resolution fast spin‐echo (FSE) and T1ρ/T2 relaxation time MR sequences were obtained with and without loading at 50% body weight in 124 subjects. T1ρ/T2 relaxation times were calculated in menisci, and meniscus lesions were assessed through clinical grading. Student's t‐test compared OA and control unloaded relaxation times as well as within‐group changes with loading, Generalized Linear Models evaluated zonal variation, and ANCOVA compared loading response between groups. Unloaded T1ρ and T2 in the middle and inner zones of the lateral anterior horn and outer zone of the medial posterior horn were significantly higher in OA and suggest that meniscal OA change occurs unevenly. Zonal T1ρ and T2 showed differing patterns between anterior and posterior horns, suggesting differences in macromolecular organization. Significant increases with loading were seen largely in the T2 of controls and less frequently in subjects with OA. In the medial posterior horn, T1ρ and T2 decreased with loading in OA but changed negligibly in controls; these significantly different loading responses between groups may indicate load transmission failure in OA menisci. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:249–261, 2016.
Interactions between a plant growth‐promoting rhizobacterium and smoke‐derived compounds and their effect on okra growth
Authors: Papenfus Heino B. , Kulkarni Manoj G. , Stirk Wendy A. , Rengasamy Kannan R. R. , Salomon M. Victoria , Piccoli Patricia , Bottini Rubén , Staden Johannes van
Published: July 2015

Plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are used in agriculture to improve crop yield. Crude smoke–water (made by bubbling plant‐derived smoke through water) stimulates germination and improves seedling growth. Some active compounds have been isolated from smoke with karrikinolide (KAR1) stimulating plant growth and trimethylbutenolide (TMB) being inhibitory. These smoke compounds have great potential in agriculture but their interaction with PGPR is unknown. In the present study, a two‐factorial pot trial with three replicates per treatment was designed to investigate the interactions between Bacillus licheniformis and two concentrations each of smoke–water, KAR1, and TMB on okra (Abelmoschus esculentus). Growth and physiological parameters (chlorophyll, carotenoid, protein, sugar and α‐amylase) of okra as well as bacterial abundance in the rhizosphere were measured after 5 weeks. Application of B. licheniformis and 10−7 M KAR1 significantly improved the shoot biomass and 10−7 M KAR1 also significantly improved leaf area of okra. However, when 10−7 M KAR1 was applied in combination with B. licheniformis, there was an antagonistic effect on plant growth. While TMB had a negative effect on plant growth, a combination treatment of TMB and B. licheniformis overcame the inhibitory effect of TMB resulting in plant growth similar to the control plants. All treatments had no effect on chlorophyll, carotenoid, protein and sugar concentrations, while α‐amylase activity was significantly elevated in okra root treated with 1:500 (v/v) smoke–water. Determining the rhizobacteria populations at harvest showed that all treatments had no significant effect on the rhizosphere microbial abundance. The modes of interaction between PGPR and smoke‐derived compounds need to be further elucidated.
Analyzing organic matter composition at intact biopore and crack surfaces by combining DRIFT spectroscopy and Pyrolysis‐Field Ionization Mass Spectrometry#
Authors: Leue Martin , Eckhardt Kai‐Uwe , Ellerbrock Ruth H. , Gerke Horst H. , Leinweber Peter
Published: July 2015

In the clay‐illuvial horizons (Bt) of Luvisols, surfaces of biopores and aggregates can be enriched in clay and organic matter (OM), relative to the bulk of the soil matrix. The OM composition of these coatings determines their bio‐physico‐chemical properties and is relevant for transport and transformation processes but is largely unknown at the molecular scale. The objective of this study was to improve the interpretation of spectra from Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy in diffuse reflectance mode (DRIFT) by using thermograms and released ion intensities obtained with pyrolysis‐field ionization mass spectrometry (Py‐FIMS) for a more detailed analysis of the mm‐scale spatial distribution of OM components at intact structural surfaces. Samples were separated from earthworm burrow walls, crack coatings, uncoated cracks, root channels, and pinhole fillings of the Bt‐horizons of Luvisols. The information from Py‐FI mass spectra enabled the assignment of OM functional groups also from spectral regions of overlapping DRIFT signal intensities to specific OM compound classes. In particular, bands from C=O and C=C bonds in the infrared range of wave numbers between 1,641 and 1,605 cm−1 were related to heterocyclic N‐compounds, benzonitrile, and naphthalene. The OM at earthworm burrow walls was composed of chemically labile aliphatic C‐rich and rather stable lignin and alkylaromatic compounds whereas the OM of thick crack coatings and pinholes was dominated by heterocyclic N and nitriles and high‐molecular compounds, likely originating from combustion residues. In combination with Py‐FIMS, DRIFT applications to intact samples seem promising for generating a more detailed mm‐scale spatial distribution of OM‐related sorption and wettability properties of crack and biopore surfaces that may serve as preferential flow paths in structured soils.
Internal to external jugular vein bypass allowing for simultaneous bilateral radical neck dissection
Authors: Mourad Moustafa , Saman Masoud , Ducic Yadranko
Published: July 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

The goal of the study was to determine the role of internal jugular vein (IJV) to external jugular vein (EJV) bypass grafting in the setting of bilateral radical neck dissection with IJV sacrifice.

Study Design

The study group consisted of eight patients who underwent bilateral radical neck dissection with IJV sacrifice. Demographic and oncologic parameters were defined for each patient, including age, gender, and pathology. Patients were monitored and evaluated for potential effects of increased intracranial pressure (ICP). Doppler ultrasonic evaluation was performed to assess patency of the site of anastamoses.

Results

In all, six patients underwent unilateral bypass grafting, whereas two patients underwent bilateral bypass grafts. Average age at time of surgery was 68.2 (range 56–71). Postoperatively, no sequelae of increased ICP were noted. Follow‐up ultrasonic evaluation revealed patent vessels in all patients.

Conclusion

We presently report on the use of EJV‐to‐IJV bypass grafting for all patients undergoing bilateral radical neck dissection for extensive neck disease.

Level of Evidence

4.Laryngoscope, 125:2480–2484, 2015
Cricothyroid joint anatomy as a predicting factor for success of cricoid‐thyroid approximation in transwomen
Authors: Tschan Sarina , Honegger Flurin , Storck Claudio
Published: July 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

Cricoid‐thyroid approximation (CTA) performed to elevate the vocal pitch in transwomen fails in about one‐third of the patients. The purpose of this study was to test the feasibility of predicting the likelihood of success of CTA by preoperative determination of the crico‐thyroid joint (CTJ) type using three‐dimensional (3‐D) images derived from high‐resolution computer tomography (HRCT).

Study Design

Prospective cohort study of 18 transwomen who underwent CTA at our institution.

Methods

All patients had a preoperative and a postoperative HRCT of the larynx, as well as pre‐ and postoperative measurements of the fundamental vocal pitch (F0).

Results

Three‐dimensional images showed type A CTJs in 11 patients and type B or C CTJs in seven patients (see below for the definition of these types). Cricoid‐thyroid approximation raised the F0 on average by 76 Hz in patients with type A CTJs and by 45 Hz in patients with type B/C CTJs. Moreover, CTA produced a vocal fold elongation of 17% in larynges with type A joint but only of 3% in larynges with type B/C joints.

Conclusion

Three‐dimensional images allow the differentiation of type A versus type B/C CTJs but not the distinction between type B and type C CTJs. Both vocal pitch elevation and vocal fold elongation following CTA are significantly greater in patients with type A CTJs than in patients with type B/C CTJs. Based on these preliminary results, we recommend identifying the CTJ type on 3‐D images and limiting CTA to patients with type A CTJs.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 126:1380–1384, 2016
Biogeochemistry of iron in the Arabian Sea
Authors: Moffett James W. , Vedamati Jagruti , Goepfert Tyler J. , Pratihary Anil , Gauns Mangesh , Naqvi S. W. A.
Published: July 2015

The Arabian Sea is a productive basin where seasonal upwelling and convective mixing result in high surface nutrient concentrations and widespread algal blooms. The factors controlling primary productivity in the Arabian Sea are of interest because the region contains an intense oxygen minimum zone (OMZ) that is a major sink for nitrate in the ocean. A survey of iron (Fe) distribution and redox chemistry was carried out in 2007 to assess its role in Arabian Sea biogeochemistry, including an investigation of the biological response to Fe additions. Results show that Fe is strongly enriched in the eastern Arabian Sea, associated with the OMZ. Much of the Fe within the OMZ is present as Fe(II), which enhances the residence time and accumulation of Fe. In contrast, Fe concentrations are lower in the western Arabian Sea, separated from the Fe‐rich OMZ by a water mass boundary. Consequently, low surface values are associated with monsoon‐driven upwelling off the Omani coast. Incubations revealed that primary production during the southwest monsoon was strongly limited by Fe over much of the study area. Incubation of surface waters with Fe resulted in rapid growth of Phaeocystis and up to sixfold increase in chlorophyll. This is the first demonstration of Fe limitation in the Arabian Sea, and the first high resolution zonal survey of dissolved Fe and Fe(II) across the basin. Our findings suggest that models developed to predict the response of the Arabian Sea biogeochemistry to global warming need to consider effects on Fe inputs.
RESPIRE: An in situ particle interceptor to conduct particle remineralization and microbial dynamics studies in the oceans’ Twilight Zone
Authors: Boyd Philip W. , McDonnell Andrew , Valdez Jim , LeFevre Dominique , Gall Mark P.
Published: July 2015

Sinking biogenic particles are centers of remineralization in the ocean's interior, a stratum which has large vertical biogeochemical gradients in the mesopelagic (i.e., 100–1000 m depth) realm. Due to difficulties in studying this region, our understanding of particle remineralization is based upon investigations employing biogeochemical algorithms, proxies, or shipboard incubations of deep‐water samples. Here we circumvent many of these issues by fabricating and deploying a REspiration of Sinking Particles In the subsuRface ocEan (RESPIRE) particle interceptor in the open ocean to nonintrusively intercept settling particles at fixed depths (100–300 m). After a preprogrammed particle interception phase, the RESPIRE interceptor switches to a particle incubation mode, during which remineralization rate at in situ temperature and pressure is tracked using a dissolved‐oxygen optode time series. A rotating (every 10 min) indented sphere transfers particles into a chamber that houses the dissolved‐oxygen optode, and minimizes access to particles by mesozooplankton. Deployments of typically 72 h (36 h interception: 36 h incubation) yield rates of particle remineralization primarily by attached microbes, and concurrently provide samples for geochemical analyses and microbial assays to explore the relationship between bacterial community structure, enzymatic solubilisation, and trends in particle remineralization. The interceptor has also been used to follow temporal changes in microbial dynamics associated with remineralization. RESPIRE provides more realistic conditions within which remineralization rates can be measured in the ocean's interior, and will foster new linkages between the disparate disciplines of microbial physiology and particle biogeochemistry in the ocean's Twilight Zone.
Biofunctional Materials Based on Amino Cellulose Derivatives – A Nanobiotechnological Concept
Authors: Heinze Thomas , Siebert Melanie , Berlin Peter , Koschella Andreas
Published: July 2015

This feature article summarizes recent developments in the field of so‐called aminodeoxy cellulose derivatives (“amino celluloses”) that are applied for functional surface coating of biofunctional materials. After introducing common manufacturing methods for nanostructurized substrates (material surfaces and nanoparticles) biorelevant amino celluloses are described. It could be demonstrated that cellulose is a unique starting material for chemical modification of hydroxyl groups and the adjacent carbon atom. Amino celluloses are proved to be the modifiable polymer of choice for the biofunctionalization of material surfaces. Amino celluloses posses self assembling properties and may form monolayer composites on a variety of substrate materials.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations Investigation of Structure and Thermodynamic Properties of Symmetric Poly(styrene‐block‐acrylic acid) (PS‐b‐PAA) Micelle in Salt‐Free Aqueous Solution
Authors: Chockalingam Rajalakshmi , Natarajan Upendra
Published: July 2015

The structure and thermodynamic aspects of symmetric poly(styrene‐block‐acrylicacid)(PS‐b‐PAA) copolymer micelle in salt‐free aqueous solution as a function of ionization (f) of PAA was probed by molecular dynamics simulations. Quantitative comparison of micelle radius shows that the GROMOS parameter set gives the best agreement with experiment. As f increases, Micelle size increases, attains spherical shape, PS surface area increases, and PAA water hydrogen‐bonds increases. Pair correlation functions and solvation enthalpy show that PS interactions are insensitive to f. Density profiles and solvation enthalpy of PAA–Na+, water–Na+ pairs confirm the micelle being in the “osmotic regime” experiments.
Appendectomy may delay Parkinson's disease Onset
Authors: Mendes Alexandre , Gonçalves Alexandra , Vila‐Chã Nuno , Moreira Inês , Fernandes Joana , Damásio Joana , Teixeira‐Pinto Armando , Taipa Ricardo , Lima António Bastos , Cavaco Sara
Published: July 2015

Background

Alpha‐synuclein (α‐Syn) is particularly abundant in the vermiform appendix, which makes this structure an anatomical candidate for the initiation of Parkinson's disease (PD) pathology. We hypothesized that history of appendectomy might affect PD clinical onset.

Methods

A total of 295 PD patients enrolled in a comprehensive observational study were asked about past history of appendectomy. Cox's regression, with a time‐dependent covariate, explored the effects of appendectomy on age at PD onset.

Results

Thirty‐four patients (11.5%) had appendectomy before PD onset. There was no significant effect of appendectomy on age at PD onset for the entire cohort (P = 0.153). However, among patients with late onset (≥55 years), we found evidence that those with past appendectomy had more years of life without PD symptoms than patients without appendectomy (P = 0.040). No association was found for the young‐onset group (P = 0.663).

Conclusions

An apparent relationship was observed between appendectomy and PD onset in the late PD cohort. © 2015 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Therapeutic advances in multiple system atrophy and progressive supranuclear palsy
Authors: Poewe Werner , Mahlknecht Philipp , Krismer Florian
Published: July 2015

Multiple system atrophy (MSA) and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) are relentlessly progressive neurodegenerative diseases leading to severe disability and ultimately death within less than 10 y. Despite increasing efforts in basic and clinical research, effective therapies for these atypical parkinsonian disorders are lacking. Although earlier small clinical studies in MSA and PSP mainly focused on symptomatic treatment, advances in the understanding of the molecular underpinnings of these diseases and in the search for biomarkers have paved the way for the first large and well‐designed clinical trials aiming at disease modification. Targets of intervention in these trials have included α‐synuclein inclusion pathology in the case of MSA and tau‐related mechanisms in PSP. Since 2013, four large randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind disease‐modification trials have been completed and published, using rasagiline (MSA), rifampicin (MSA), tideglusib (PSP), or davunetide (PSP). All of these failed to demonstrate signal efficacy with regard to the primary outcome measures. In addition, two randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind trials have studied the efficacy of droxidopa in the symptomatic treatment of neurogenic orthostatic hypotension, including patients with MSA, with positive results in one trial. This review summarizes the design and the outcomes of these and other smaller trials published since 2013 and attempts to highlight priority areas of future therapeutic research in MSA and PSP. © 2015 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Neurochemical and neuroendocrine correlates of overactive bladder at first demyelinating episode
Authors: Koutsis Georgios , Evangelopoulos Maria‐Eleftheria , Sfagos Constantinos , Markianos Manolis
Published: July 2015

Aims

Bladder dysfunction is frequent during the course of multiple sclerosis (MS), observed in up to 75% of patients. Urinary symptomatology can be a feature of the first episode of MS in a minority of cases, and most often shows characteristics of an overactive bladder (OAB), with voiding symptoms seen less frequently, often in combination with OAB. The neural control of micturition is complex, involving systems located in the brain, spinal cord, and periphery, and implicating central noradrenergic, serotonergic, and dopaminergic activities. Urinary disorders are also linked to anxiety and depression, conditions connected to hypothalamus–pituitary–adrenal axis activity. In this study we aimed to investigate neurochemical and neuroendocrine correlates of bladder dysfunction in early MS.

Methods

We included 101 patients at first demyelinating episode suggestive of MS that were drug‐free at assessment. We evaluated the presence of urinary symptomatology and estimated CSF levels of the main metabolites of noradrenaline, serotonin, and dopamine, as well CSF‐ACTH and serum cortisol.

Results

In total, 15 patients (15%) reported urinary dysfunction suggestive of OAB. Four of these had coexistent voiding symptomatology. The serotonin metabolite 5‐HIAA was significantly reduced (P = 0.017) in patients with OAB syndrome, while there were no differences in the metabolites of noradrenaline (MHPG) and of dopamine (HVA). Additionally, significantly lower serum cortisol (P = 0.009) and borderline lower CSF‐ACTH (P = 0.08) were found in patients with OAB.

Conclusions

MS patients with OAB syndrome at the first demyelinating episode show reductions in central serotonergic activity and stress hormones. Whether the same changes persist at later disease stages remains to be investigated. Neurourol. Urodynam. 35:955–958, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The role of serotonergic mechanism in the rat prefrontal cortex for controlling the micturition reflex: An in vivo microdialysis study
Authors: Chiba Hiroki , Mitsui Takahiko , Kitta Takeya , Ohmura Yu , Moriya Kimihiko , Kanno Yukiko , Yoshioka Mitsuhiro , Shinohara Nobuo
Published: July 2015

Aims

To investigate the role of the PFC in the micturition reflex using an in vivo microdialysis study in rats.

Methods

Adult female Sprague‐Dawley rats were used and microdyalysis in the PFC and cystometrography (CMG) were performed under consciousness and free movement in the present study. Experiment 1: Samples including extracellular neurotransmitters were collected by microdyalysis and analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography. At the same time, CMG were performed to measure intercontraction interval (ICI) and maximum voiding pressure (MVP).  Experiment 2: SSRI (citalopram, 1 µM) was administered into the PFC, and microdyalysis and cystometrography (CMG) were performed simultaneously. Experiment 3: Following SSRI administration, 5‐HT1A agonist (8‐OH‐DPAT, 300 µM), which has the effect of decreasing the level of serotonin (5‐HT) in the PFC, was administered into the PFC, and microdyalysis and CMG were performed simultaneously.

Results

Experiment 1: Extracellular level of 5‐HT in the PFC significantly increased during micturition reflex (P < 0.05), whereas levels of glutamate or dopamine were not significantly changed. Experiment 2: Local administration of SSRI in the PFC increased the 5‐HT level up to approximate 600% of the basal level. It also significantly increased ICI (P < 0.05), whereas no significant change was found in MVP. Experiment 3: The extracellular level of 5‐HT gradually decreased after local administration of 5‐HT1A agonist, thereby ICI significantly decreased (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The results of the present study suggest that the PFC has a suppressive effect on neural control of the micturition reflex via serotonin. Neurourol. Urodynam. 35:902–907, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Micromechanical modeling of large deformation in sepiolite reinforced rubber sealing composites under transverse tension
Authors: Zhang Bin , Yu Xiaoming , Gu Boqin
Published: July 2015

This article presents an experimental and numerical study on mechanical behavior of sepiolite reinforced rubber sealing composites (SRRC), which are subjected to the transverse tensile loads. A finite element model of composites with fibers in square and random distribution is adopted for the numerical study. The representative volume elements with different fiber volume fraction are established and analyzed. A successive remeshing strategy is employed to achieve the large deformation of SRRC. The results show that the tensile strength and breaking elongation of SRRC can be improved by addition of sepiolite fiber, and they reach a maximum at 42% fiber volume fraction. The stress‐strain curve of SRRC with fibers in the random distribution agrees well with that measured in the experiments. However, there exists a significant difference between experimental and numerical results as fiber volume fraction increases. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:381–388, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Comparative study on the natural rubber nanocomposites reinforced with carbon black nanoparticles and graphite oxide nanosheets
Authors: Bian Jun , Lan Lin Hai , Xiong He Fei , Wang Ling , Wei Wei Xiao , Chang I‐Ta , Lu Yun
Published: July 2015

To achieve dramatic improvements in the performance of natural rubber (NR), the graphite oxide nanosheets (GON)‐reinforced NR nanocomposites have been prepared through solution mixing on the basis of pretreatment of graphite. The mechanical and thermal properties of GON/NR nanocomposites were characterized in contrast to the carbon black (CB)/NR nanocomposite. The mechanical properties of the GON‐reinforced NR showed a considerable increase compared to the neat NR and traditional CB/NR nanocomposite. The initial modulus of pure NR was increased for up to 53.6% when 7 wt% GON is incorporated. The modulus and strength of NR with GON appear to be superior to those of CB with the same filler content. The dispersion state of the nanofillers into NR was investigated by scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction, and the results indicated that nanofillers have been dispersed homogeneously in the NR matrix. Fourier transform infrared spectra showed possible interfacial interactions between fillers and NR matrix. Differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis showed that the Tg and thermal decomposition temperature of NR slightly increased with the addition of the fillers, especially for that of GON/NR nanocomposites. According to this study, application of the physical and mechanical properties of GON to NR can result in rubber products which have improved mechanical, physical, and thermal properties, compared with existing NR products reinforced with CB. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:1427–1437, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Preparation of doubly responsive polymer functionalized silica hybrid nanoparticles via a one‐pot thiol‐isocyanate click reaction at room temperature
Authors: Ou Baoli , Huang Rao , Zhou Hu , Li Zhengfeng , Chen Lijuan , Zhou Zhihua , Li Duxin
Published: July 2015

Well‐defined poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) and poly(2‐(diethylamino) ethyl methacrylate) were synthesized first by a reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer process. These polymers were then reduced to generate an end thiol group to react with isocyanate groups on the surface of silica nanoparticles, which were pretreated with toluene‐2,4‐diisocyanate, by a one‐pot “click” reaction to prepare temperature and pH responsive polymer functionalized hybrid silica nanoparticles. The polymer functionalized silica hybrid nanoparticles were characterized by a range of techniques such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and dynamic light scattering. The doubly responsive polymer functionalized silica hybrid nanoparticles show both temperature and pH responsive behavior and their solution properties were dependent on the ratio of the two polymers on the surface of silica. Covalent functionalization of the silica nanoparticle with well‐defined temperature and pH responsive polymers was accomplished via a one‐pot thiol‐isocyanate click reaction. This reaction was found to be extremely efficient in producing doubly responsive polymer functionalized silica hybrid nanoparticle, even at relatively low reaction temperature and short reaction time. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated that the same ratio of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) and poly(2‐(diethylamino)ethyl methacrylate) functionalized silica hybrid nanoparticle consisted of 42.46 wt% polymer. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:1454–1461, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
First trimester ultrasound screening for Down syndrome based on maternal age, fetal nuchal translucency and different combinations of the additional markers nasal bone, tricuspid and ductus venosus flow
Authors: Abele Harald , Wagner Philipp , Sonek Jiri , Hoopmann Markus , Brucker Sara , Artunc‐Ulkumen Burcu , Kagan Karl Oliver
Published: July 2015

What's already known about this topic?

First trimester screening for Down syndrome based on maternal age and fetal NT detects about 70% of affected fetuses for a 3% false positive rate.

What does this study add?

The assessment of one, two and three of the additional ultrasound markers nasal bone, tricuspid and ductus venosus flow increases the detection rate to about 80%, 87% and 94%, respectively, for the same false positive rate.

© 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Constructing sequence‐dependent protein models using coevolutionary information
Authors: Cheng Ryan R. , Raghunathan Mohit , Noel Jeffrey K. , Onuchic José N.
Published: July 2015

Recent developments in global statistical methodologies have advanced the analysis of large collections of protein sequences for coevolutionary information. Coevolution between amino acids in a protein arises from compensatory mutations that are needed to maintain the stability or function of a protein over the course of evolution. This gives rise to quantifiable correlations between amino acid sites within the multiple sequence alignment of a protein family. Here, we use the maximum entropy‐based approach called mean field Direct Coupling Analysis (mfDCA) to infer a Potts model Hamiltonian governing the correlated mutations in a protein family. We use the inferred pairwise statistical couplings to generate the sequence‐dependent heterogeneous interaction energies of a structure‐based model (SBM) where only native contacts are considered. Considering the ribosomal S6 protein and its circular permutants as well as the SH3 protein, we demonstrate that these models quantitatively agree with experimental data on folding mechanisms. This work serves as a new framework for generating coevolutionary data‐enriched models that can potentially be used to engineer key functional motions and novel interactions in protein systems.
Electromagnetic absorption of quasi‐1D Majorana nanowires
Authors: Osca Javier , Serra Llorenç
Published: July 2015

We calculate the electromagnetic absorption cross section of long and narrow nanowires, in the so‐called quasi‐1D limit. We consider only two transverse bands and compute the dipole absorption cross section taking into account quasiparticle transitions from negative to positive energy eigenstates of the Bogoliubov‐de Gennes Hamiltonian. The presence of the zero energy (Majorana) state manifests in the different absorption spectra for x (parallel) and y (transverse) polarizations of the electromagnetic field.

In the y ‐polarized case, the Majorana state causes a low energy absorption plateau extending from mid‐gap up to full‐gap energy. Increasing further the energy, the plateau is followed by a region of enhanced absorption due to transitions across the full gap. For x polarization the low energy absorption plateau is not observed. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Carbon Nanotube–CoF2 Multifunctional Cathode for Lithium Ion Batteries: Effect of Electrolyte on Cycle Stability
Authors: Wang Xinran , Gu Wentian , Lee Jung Tae , Nitta Naoki , Benson Jim , Magasinski Alexandre , Schauer Mark W. , Yushin Gleb
Published: July 2015

Transition metal fluorides (MFx) offer remarkably high theoretical energy density. However, the low cycling stability, low electrical and ionic conductivity of metal fluorides have severely limited their applications as conversion‐type cathode materials for lithium ion batteries. Here, a scalable and low‐cost strategy is reported on the fabrication of multifunctional cobalt fluoride/carbon nanotube nonwoven fabric nanocomposite, which demonstrates a combination of high capacity (near‐theoretical, ) and excellent mechanical properties. Its strength and modulus of toughness exceed that of many aluminum alloys, cast iron, and other structural materials, fulfilling the use of MFx‐based materials in batteries with load‐bearing capabilities. In the course of this study, cathode dissolution in conventional electrolytes has been discovered as the main reason that leads to the rapid growth of the solid electrolyte interphase layer and attributes to rapid cell degradation. And such largely overlooked degradation mechanism is overcome by utilizing electrolyte comprising a fluorinated solvent, which forms a protective ionically conductive layer on the cathode and anode surfaces. With this approach, 93% capacity retention is achieved after 200 cycles at the current density of 100 mA g−1 and over 50% after 10 000 cycles at the current density of 1000 mA g−1.
Modelling uncertainties for the loadbearing capacity of corroded simply supported RC beams
Authors: Allaix Diego Lorenzo , Carbone Vincenzo Ilario , Mancini Giuseppe
Published: July 2015

The probabilistic assessment of structures damaged by corrosion calls for deterministic models of the degradation of the structural performance and probabilistic models accounting for the uncertainties in material properties, geometry and models used in the reliability analysis. This paper describes the development of a probabilistic model of the uncertainties that arise from the prediction of the loadbearing capacity of reinforced concrete structures damaged by corrosion of the reinforcement. The investigation focuses on the flexural failure of simply supported beams suffering from chloride‐induced corrosion. The loss of steel cross‐sectional area, the reduction in strength and ductility of the corroded bars, the loss of bond between reinforcement and concrete and the cracking of the concrete cover are taken into account in a non‐linear finite element analysis. The comparison between experimental results and numerical predictions of the failure load allows the quantification of the model uncertainty according to the framework proposed by the Joint Committee on Structural Safety. A Bayesian updating methodology is proposed to account for prior knowledge and experimental results.
Persistence of plague outbreaks among great gerbils in Kazakhstan: effects of host population dynamics
Authors: Heier Lise , Viljugrein Hildegunn , Storvik Geir O.
Published: July 2015

Outbreaks of plague (Yersinia pestis) among great gerbils (Rhombomys opimus) generally require a high host abundance to be initiated. The duration of an outbreak is expected to depend on the subsequent development of this abundance; however, prediction is nontrivial due to the complexity of the gerbil–plague system. The aim of this study was to investigate how the duration of outbreaks depends on different types of host population dynamics generated from: a cyclic model; an autoregressive model giving irregular fluctuations; and a simple model with uncorrelated fluctuations. For each model, outbreak duration was studied under various levels of mean and variability of host abundance. Its focus on the effect of different gerbil dynamics sets this study apart from the few published studies on diseases in dynamic host populations. Plague outbreaks were simulated in a cellular automaton model based on statistical analysis of archived records of plague and host abundance. Temporal autocorrelation was found to make outbreak duration less sensitive to changes in mean abundance than uncorrelated fluctuations. Cyclicity had little effect on the mean duration of outbreaks, but resulted in a multimodal distribution. For all three types of gerbil dynamics, increased variability in gerbil abundance reduced the duration of outbreaks when the mean abundance was high (paralleling results on the risk of species extinction in fluctuating environments), but increased their duration when the mean abundance was lower. Spatial heterogeneity was briefly tested and produced longer outbreaks than the homogenous case. The results are relevant to predicting plague activity in populations of great gerbils.
Reference values of amino acids and of common clinical chemistry in plasma of healthy infants aged 1 and 4 months
Authors: Haschke‐Becher Elisabeth , Kainz Alexander , Bachmann Claude
Published: July 2015

Objective

To compare plasma levels of amino acids and clinical chemistry parameters in healthy infants at 1 and 4 months of age and to establish corresponding reference limits.

Methods

Data of three multicenter studies assessing the safety of new infant formulas were used. During these studies infants of both age‐groups were either breast‐fed or received formulas of low or high protein content. All samples were analyzed centrally in the same accredited laboratory.

Results

Plasma was collected from 521 infants in total, 157 boys and 135 girls aged 1 month and 121 boys and 108 girls aged 4 months. At the age of 1 month, 62 infants had received exclusively breast milk, 198 exclusively formula, and 27 both; in the 4‐months age group corresponding numbers were 49, 158 and 18, respectively; for 9 infants, diet was unknown. Concentrations of most amino acids and clinical chemistry parameters differed significantly between both ages. Regardless of age, most plasma amino acid levels were comparable or lower in breast‐fed than in formula‐fed infants whereas at 1 month of age most clinical chemistry parameters were higher. While in breast‐fed infants the plasma urea concentration decreased over 4 months of age, it increased in formula‐fed infants. There were significant differences between infants fed a low and high protein formula. At both ages, high protein formulas resulted in significantly higher threonine, 2‐aminobutyrate, and urea concentrations.

Conclusions

For clinical use, age‐ and diet specific reference limits in infants are warranted.
Comorbid Profile Rather than Age Determines Hip Fracture Mortality in a Nonagenarian Population
Authors: Graver Adam , Merwin Sara , Collins Lewis , Kohn Nina , Goldman Ariel
Published: July 2015

Background

In light of poor outcomes with nonoperative management of hip fractures, orthopedic surgeons are faced with difficult decisions about which patients are too ill or too old for surgical treatment.

Questions/Purposes

This study sought to investigate if patients over 90 years had different preoperative laboratory, clinical, and injury characteristics than younger patients with the same injury. We compared our cohort with previously published data. We wished to identify if there were pre-injury risk factors associated with 30-day mortality, which could be modified to enhance postoperative outcomes.

Methods

This is a retrospective review of 198 operatively managed hip fractures in patients 75 years or older. We collected data on demographics, select preoperative laboratory values, injury type, comorbidities, and 30-day mortality.

Results

Eleven (5.6%) of the cohort died within 30 days of surgery, 6.3% in the younger group, and 3.7% in the older group; the difference was not statistically significant. For baseline characteristics, there was no difference between the age groups for pre-injury comorbidities, hemoglobin, serum albumin, BUN, prevalence of UTI, or fracture type. A total of 67 (35.8%) patients had evidence of UTI on admission.

Conclusions

These findings reveal that in our dichotomized cohort, pre-injury characteristics were similar and age alone was not an independent predictor of mortality. These data may inform decision-making for orthopedic surgeons and the medical providers who consult to optimize these patients for surgery. We identified high rates of UTI in both age groups, a potentially remediable factor to optimize outcomes in hip fracture surgery in elderly patients.
Biochemical Characterization of Turkish Extra Virgin Olive Oils from Six Different Olive Varieties of Identical Growing Conditions
Authors: Dag Cagdas , Demirtas Ilknur , Ozdemir Ibrahim , Bekiroglu Somer , Ertas Erdal
Published: July 2015

Extra virgin olive oils were extracted from six different major olive cultivars (Gemlik, Ayvalik, Domat, Akhisar, Memecik, Arbequina) cultivated in the Aegean region of Turkey. Fatty acid, sterol and tocopherol compositions were analyzed and the results were compared by multivariate statistical analysis. Olive samples were collected from the same orchard in order to limit the contribution of parameters such as climate, soil quality and agricultural practices to the total variance of chemical composition of olive oils. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that cultivars can be clearly distinguished on the basis of fatty acid and sterol composition. It is of interest to note that palmitoleic acid content of Arbequina, a Spanish cultivar, is significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the local Turkish cultivars in question and it is the only olive sample whose palmitoleic acid concentration is higher than that of the stearic acid concentration, exhibiting a divergent composition from the local Turkish cultivars. β‐Sitosterol and Δ5‐avenasterol contents of the oils are significantly correlated (r = −0.989, p < 0.05) and this results in a discriminative axis on the PCA loading plot. Tocopherol composition was relatively insufficient in discriminating the olive varieties. Regarding tocopherol compositions Gemlik cultivar is distinguished from other cultivars with its γ‐tocopherol content, which is in average two times higher than that of other cultivars. The result of the present compositional study provides important data which can be used for olive oil authenticity studies in Turkey.