bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of lidocaine administration via continuous rate infusion on the minimum alveolar concentration of isoflurane in New Zealand White rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
Authors: Schnellbacher Rodney W. , Carpenter James W. , Mason Diane E. , KuKanich Butch , Beaufrère Hugues , Boysen Courtney
Published: October 2013

Objective—To evaluate the effect of a continuous rate infusion (CRI) of lidocaine on the minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of isoflurane in rabbits.

Animals—Five 12-month-old female New Zealand White rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus).

Procedures—Rabbits were anesthetized with isoflurane. Baseline isoflurane MAC was determined by use of the tail clamp technique. A loading dose of lidocaine (2.0 mg/kg, IV) was administered followed by a CRI of lidocaine at 50 μg/kg/min. After 30 minutes, isoflurane MAC was determined. Another loading dose was administered, and the lidocaine CRI then was increased to 100 μg/kg/min. After 30 minutes, isoflurane MAC was determined again. Plasma samples were obtained for lidocaine analysis after each MAC determination.

Results—Baseline isoflurane MAC was 2.09%, which was similar to previously reported values in this species. Lidocaine CRI at 50 and 100 μg/kg/min induced significant reductions in MAC. The 50 μg/kg/min CRI resulted in a mean plasma lidocaine concentration of 0.654 μg/mL and reduction of MAC by 10.5%. The 100 μg/kg/min CRI of lidocaine resulted in a mean plasma concentration of 1.578 μg/mL and reduction of MAC by 21.7%. Lidocaine also induced significant decreases in arterial blood pressure and heart rate. All cardiopulmonary variables were within reference ranges for rabbits anesthetized with inhalation anesthetics. No adverse effects were detected; all rabbits had an uncomplicated recovery from anesthesia.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Lidocaine administered as a CRI at 50 and 100 μg/kg/min decreased isoflurane MAC in rabbits. The IV administration of lidocaine may be a useful adjunct in anesthesia of rabbits.
Fertility issues in cancer survivorship
Authors: Kort Jonathan D. , Eisenberg Michael L. , Millheiser Leah S. , Westphal Lynn M.
Published: October 2013

Answer questions and earn CME/CNE

Breakthroughs in cancer diagnosis and treatment have led to dramatic improvements in survival and the need to focus on survivorship issues. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy can be gonadotoxic, resulting in impaired fertility. Techniques to help cancer survivors reproduce have been improving over the past decade. Discussion of the changes to a patient's reproductive health after cancer treatment is essential to providing comprehensive quality care. The purpose of this review is to aid in pre‐ and posttreatment counseling, focusing on fertility preservation and other strategies that may mitigate risks to the patient's reproductive, sexual, and overall health. CA Cancer J Clin 2014;64:118–134. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance with Five-Branched Gold Nanostars in a Plastic Optical Fiber for Bio-Chemical Sensor Implementation
Authors: Cennamo Nunzio , D'Agostino Girolamo , Donà Alice , Dacarro Giacomo , Pallavicini Piersandro , Pesavento Maria , Zeni Luigi
Published: October 2013

In this paper a refractive index sensor based on localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) in a Plastic Optical Fiber (POF), is presented and experimentally tested. LSPR is achieved exploiting five-branched gold nanostars (GNS) obtained using Triton X-100 in a seed-growth synthesis. They have the uncommon feature of three localized surface plasmon resonances. The strongest LSPRs fall in two ranges, one in the 600–900 nm range (LSPR 2) and the other one in the 1,100–1,600 nm range (LSPR 3), both sensible to refractive index changes. Anyway, due to the extremely strong attenuation (>102 dB/m) of the employed POF in the 1,100–1,600 nm range, only LSPR 2 will be exploited for refractive index change measurements, useful for bio-chemical sensing applications, as a proof of principle of the possibility of realizing a compact, low cost and easy-to-use GNS based device.
Fabrication and Characterization of CMOS-MEMS Magnetic Microsensors
Authors: Hsieh Chen-Hsuan , Dai Ching-Liang , Yang Ming-Zhi
Published: October 2013

This study investigates the design and fabrication of magnetic microsensors using the commercial 0.35 μm complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) process. The magnetic sensor is composed of springs and interdigitated electrodes, and it is actuated by the Lorentz force. The finite element method (FEM) software CoventorWare is adopted to simulate the displacement and capacitance of the magnetic sensor. A post-CMOS process is utilized to release the suspended structure. The post-process uses an anisotropic dry etching to etch the silicon dioxide layer and an isotropic dry etching to remove the silicon substrate. When a magnetic field is applied to the magnetic sensor, it generates a change in capacitance. A sensing circuit is employed to convert the capacitance variation of the sensor into the output voltage. The experimental results show that the output voltage of the magnetic microsensor varies from 0.05 to 1.94 V in the magnetic field range of 5–200 mT.
Surficial geology of Taseko Lakes map-area, British Columbia
Authors: Heginbottom J A
Published: October 2013

The whole map-area was ice covered during the Fraser Glaciation. The ice built up in the Coast Mountains and spread northeastwards across the map-area. The ice apparently melted by down-wasting in situ and, in the final stages, consisted of isolated masses of
stagnant i c e in the river valleys. Most of the area is covered with a variable thickness of unconsolidated deposits, largely resulting from the Fraser Glaciation. No evidence of more than one major glaciation was seen. Valley glaciers were more extensive in the recent past than they are
today.
Morphology and stratigraphic ranges of selected Mesozoic-Cenozoic dinoflagellate taxa in the northern hemisphere
Authors: Williams G L , Stover L E , Kidson E J
Published: October 2013

Morphological and stratigraphie information for 239 fossil dinoflagellate taxa known to occur in northern hemisphere palynomorph assemblages constitute the major part of this paper. To facilitate identification the dinoflagellate entities, the species, genera, or
'complexes' are arranged in 17 groups, of which 16 are based on morphological characteristics. The remaining group contains forms that could not be assigned appropriately to one of the morphological groups. Arrangement of the individual taxa into the morphological groups enables the major
characteristics of the various groups to be compared easily and the critical features of dinoflagellates within a single group to be identified readily. The total ranges of the dinoflagellate cysts, expressed in both relative and absolute ages, are compiled in three range charts. Range information
is also presented in a series of summarizing appendices. lllustrative material includes fine drawings for each of the 239 taxa. These drawings are organized into two sets; one set is arranged morphologically, whereas the other set is arranged stratigraphically. Four new morphological terms are
introduced and defined: standard sexiform, inclined sexiform, contiguous operculum, and disarticulated ( or non-contiguous) operculum. We now consider Meiourogon­yaulax Sarjeant to be a junior taxonomie synonym of Lithodinia Eisenack 1935 emended Gocht 1975b. Accordingly, we return or attribute the
species previously assigned to Meiourogonyaulax to Lithodinia. We also reassign Liesbergia scarburghensis (Sarjeant 1964) Berger 1986 to Trichodinium Eisenack and Cookson 1960 as a new combination and describe a new species, Tectatodinium grande.
Indicator mineral signatures of the Izok Lake Zn-Cu-Pb-Ag volcanogenic massive sulphide deposit, Nunavut: Part 2 till
Authors: Hicken A K , McClenaghan M B , Paulen R
C , Layton-Matthews D , Averill S
A , Crabtree D
Published: October 2013

Volcanogenic massive sulphide (VMS) deposits have characteristic suites of indicator minerals; however, little research has been undertaken to determine which minerals may be useful to exploration in glaciated terrain. To date, few case studies have been
conducted down-ice of known deposits. In response to this knowledge gap and to stimulate exploration in northern Canada, the Geological Survey of Canada, through its Geo-mapping for Energy and Minerals GEM Program (2008 - 2013), in collaboration with Queen's University, Minerals and Metals Group
Limited (MMG) and Overburden Drilling Management Limited (ODM) examined the indicator minerals that characterize the Izok Lake Zn-Cu-Pb-Ag VMS deposit, Nunavut, and documented their glacial dispersal down-ice. Till samples down-ice of the Izok Lake deposit contain 10s to 1000s of grains/10 kg of
chalcopyrite, sphalerite, galena, and pyrite up to 20 km down-ice (northwest). Gahnite is the most useful indicator of glacial dispersal from the Izok Lake VMS deposit because it is abundant in the deposit and till down-ice, sufficiently dense (specific gravity 4 - 4.6), physically robust, and easy
to visually identify due to its distinctive blue-green colour. Gahnite in the area of the Izok Lake deposit is present in till at an abundance of 10 to 1000s grains/10 kg and was found at least 50 km down-ice. Staurolite may also be an indicator mineral of the deposit, but insufficient information
is available about the modal abundance and ZnO content of staurolite in the deposit host rock. Sulphide minerals chalcopyrite, sphalerite, galena, loellingite, and pyrite are also useful indicators of the Izok deposit. However, they occur in low abundances in till down-ice from the deposit, and
sulphide minerals are generally not physically and chemically robust, and therefore are unlikely to survive postglacial weathering of till.
Observations of reactive nitrogen oxide fluxes by eddy covariance above two mid-latitude North American mixed hardwood forests
Authors: Geddes J. A. , Murphy J. G.
Published: October 2013

Abstract. Significant knowledge gaps persist in the understanding of forest–atmosphere exchange of reactive nitrogen oxides, partly due to a lack of direct observations. Chemical transport models require representations of dry deposition over a variety of land surface types, and the role of canopy exchange of NOx (= NO + NO2) is highly uncertain. Biosphere–atmosphere exchange of NOx and NOy (= NOx + HNO3 + PANs + RONO2 + pNO3− + ...) was measured by eddy covariance above a mixed hardwood forest in central Ontario (HFWR), and a mixed hardwood forest in northern lower Michigan (PROPHET) during the summers of 2011 and 2012 respectively. NOx and NOy mixing ratios were measured by a custom built two-channel analyzer based on chemiluminescence, with selective NO2 conversion via LED photolysis and NOy conversion via a hot molybdenum converter. Consideration of interferences from water and O3, and random uncertainty of the calculated fluxes are discussed. NOy flux observations were predominantly of deposition at both locations. The magnitude of deposition scaled with NOy mixing ratios, resulting in campaign-average deposition velocities close to 0.6 cm s−1 at both locations. A~period of highly polluted conditions (NOy concentrations up to 18 ppb) showed distinctly different flux characteristics than the rest of the campaign. Integrated daily average NOy flux was 0.14 mg (N) m−2 day−1 and 0.34 mg (N) m−2 day−1 at HFWR and PROPHET respectively. Concurrent wet deposition measurements were used to estimate the contributions of dry deposition to total reactive nitrogen oxide inputs, found to be 22% and 40% at HFWR and PROPHET, respectively.
A Rare Case of Primary Mantle Cell Lymphoma of the Prostate: Clinical Aspects and Open Problems
Authors: Gurioli Alberto , Marson Francesco , Pisano Francesca , Soria Francesco , Lorenzo Daniele , Pacchioni Donatella , Frea Bruno , Gontero Paolo
Published: October 2013

A case of primary prostate involvement by mantle-cell lymphoma diagnosed at the time of transvesical adenomectomy is reported. Diagnostic difficulties and clinical outcome are also presented. The possibility of prostate involvement by malignant lymphomas, albeit rare, should be considered in any case of histological evidence of dense prostate lymphoid infiltrate in patients with lower urinary tract obstruction, and should be highly suspected in patients with prior history of systemic lymphoma. Immunohistochemical analysis is essential for a correct diagnosis. Both urologists and pathologists should be aware of the existence of such a rare clinical condition.
A comparative study between parametric and artificial neural networks approaches for economical assessment of potato production in Iran
Authors: Zangeneh M. , Omid M. , Akram A.
Published: October 2013

Potatoes are the single most important agricultural commodity in Hamadan province of Iran, where 25,503 ha of this crop were planted in 2008 under irrigated conditions. This paper compares results of the application of two different approaches, parametric model (PM) and artificial neural networks (ANNs), for assessing economical productivity (EP), total costs of production (TCP) and benefit to cost ratio (BC) of potato crop. In this comparison, Cobb-Douglas function for PM and multilayer feedforward for implementing ANN models have been used. The ANN, having 8-6- 12-1 topology with R2 = 0.89, resulted in the best-suited model for estimating EP. Similarly, optimal topologies for TCP and BC were 8-13-15-1 (R2 = 0.97) and 8-15-13-1 (R2 = 0.94), respectively. In validating the PM and ANN models, mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) was used as performance indicator. The ANN approach allowed to reduce the MAPE from –184% for PM to less than 7% with a +30% to –95% variability range. Since ANN outperformed PM model, it should be preferred for estimating economical indices.
Palette of Problems – November 2013
Authors: Amidon Joel , Roscoe Matt
Published: October 2013

A monthly set of problems is aimed at a variety of ability levels.
Zinc Finger Nuclease-Expressing Baculoviral Vectors Mediate Targeted Genome Integration of Reprogramming Factor Genes to Facilitate the Generation of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Phang Rui-Zhe , Tay Felix Chang , Goh Sal-Lee , Lau Cia-Hin , Zhu Haibao , Tan Wee-Kiat , Liang Qingle , Chen Can , Du Shouhui , Li Zhendong , Tay Johan Chin-Kang , Wu Chunxiao , Zeng Jieming , Fan Weimin , Toh Han Chong , Wang Shu
Published: October 2013

Integrative gene transfer using retroviruses to express reprogramming factors displays high efficiency in generating induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), but the value of the method is limited because of the concern over mutagenesis associated with random insertion of transgenes. Site-specific integration into a preselected locus by engineered zinc-finger nuclease (ZFN) technology provides a potential way to overcome the problem. Here, we report the successful reprogramming of human fibroblasts into a state of pluripotency by baculoviral transduction-mediated, site-specific integration of OKSM (Oct3/4, Klf4, Sox2, and c-myc) transcription factor genes into the AAVS1 locus in human chromosome 19. Two nonintegrative baculoviral vectors were used for cotransduction, one expressing ZFNs and another as a donor vector encoding the four transcription factors. iPSC colonies were obtained at a high efficiency of 12% (the mean value of eight individual experiments). All characterized iPSC clones carried the transgenic cassette only at the ZFN-specified AAVS1 locus. We further demonstrated that when the donor cassette was flanked by heterospecific loxP sequences, the reprogramming genes in iPSCs could be replaced by another transgene using a baculoviral vector-based Cre recombinase-mediated cassette exchange system, thereby producing iPSCs free of exogenous reprogramming factors. Although the use of nonintegrating methods to generate iPSCs is rapidly becoming a standard approach, methods based on site-specific integration of reprogramming factor genes as reported here hold the potential for efficient generation of genetically amenable iPSCs suitable for future gene therapy applications.
Where is the magnetic energy for the expansion phase of auroral substorms accumulated?
Authors: Akasofu Syun‐Ichi
Published: October 2013

Characteristics of the ionospheric current system (the directly driven (DD) / unloading (UL) currents) and the power ε during auroral substorms are examined semiquantitatively in terms of input‐output relationship. The study confirms (a) The magnetic energy for the expansion phase is accumulated with the rate of a little more than 1018 erg/s during the growth phase which lasts for about 1 h (because the ionosphere cannot dissipate the input power). (b) The global energy dissipation rate in the ionosphere (including the Joule heat production and the particle precipitation) is more than 3.3 × 1018 erg/s. (c) Thus, the total energy consumption by the ionosphere during the impulsive expansion phase (lasting for about 1 h) is 1.2 × 1022 erg or up to 1023 erg for medium substorms. (d) However, it is shown that even the total magnetic energy in the magnetotail at a distance between 10 RE and 20 RE (6.5 × 1021 ergs = 6.5 × 1014 J) cannot supply the energy for the expansion phase. This estimate is consistent with the most recent satellite observations (4.3 × 1013 J (= 4.3 × 1020 ergs)). Thus, the following conclusions may be applicable for medium intensity substorms: (i) The major part of the magnetic energy for the expansion phase must be accumulated within a distance of 10 RE and be released almost totally during the expansion phase (because the duration of the growth phase and the expansion phase is about the same). (ii) This suggests that there is an upper limit of the energy which the magnetosphere can accumulate even at distances less than 10 RE. Further, it is confirmed that: (a) The expansion phase is characterized by a single cell current system UL (not a twin cell current system DD which is driven by the earthward plasma convection from the magnetotail). (b) The UL current is independent of the DD current, requiring a different origin. (c) During the recovery phase, the UL current is absent and the DD current approximately follows ε (no accumulation of the energy), because the ionosphere is capable of dissipating the power even if the power is moderate). (d) Based on these results, as an example, one possible chain of processes within 10 RE is proposed as the release process of the accumulated magnetic energy by taking into account the fact that the frozen‐in field condition is observed to be broken down.
One‐pot method for obtaining hydrophilic tetracycline‐imprinted particles via precipitation polymerization in ethanol
Authors: Zhao Chunyan , Dai Jiangdong , Zhou Zhiping , Dai Xiaohui , Zou Yongli , Yu Ping , Zou Tianbian , Li Chunxiang , Yan Yongsheng
Published: October 2013

In this study, we used a green, one‐pot method to synthesize hydrophilic molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) via the precipitation polymerization of hydrophilic monomers in ethanol. The as‐prepared materials were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and water contact angle measurements (27.3 ± 0.1°). As compared to the imprinting and nonimprinting processes, tetracycline (TC), as a template molecule, had an important effect on the morphology of the MIPs, and the possible mechanism is discussed in detail. We also discuss the effects of the parameters on the binding performance as determined by batch adsorption experiments in pure water. The adsorption capacity increased with increasing concentration and temperature at an optimum pH of 5.0. The Langmuir isotherm fitted the data better, with a maximal concentration of 45.75 μmol/g at 318 K. The kinetic properties of the MIPs (within 3.0 h) toward TC were analyzed with pseudo‐first‐order and pseudo‐second‐order kinetic equations and the intraparticle diffusion model. The MIPs exhibited specific recognition toward TC, and other competitive antibiotics were used as references. All of the results indicate that the MIPs exhibited a large adsorption capacity and great specific recognition for TC. The high affinity to TC of the MIPs, with its fast and easy fabrication, provides them with potential applications in the selective separation of the TC antibiotics from an aqueous environment. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40071.
Assessing the Minimally Verbal School‐Aged Child With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Kasari Connie , Brady Nancy , Lord Catherine , Tager‐Flusberg Helen
Published: October 2013

This paper addresses the issue of assessing communication, language, and associated cognitive and behavioral abilities of minimally verbal children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), presenting a summary of a year‐long series of meetings held by a group of experts in the field of ASD and National Institutes of Health staff. In this paper, our goals were to first define the population and then present general guidelines for optimizing assessment sessions for this challenging population. We then summarize the available measures that can be used across a variety of behavioral domains that are most directly relevant to developing language skills, including oral motor skills, vocal repertoire, receptive and expressive language, imitation, intentional communication, play, social behavior, repetitive and sensory behaviors, and nonverbal cognition. We conclude with a discussion of some of the limitations in the available measures and highlight recommendations for future research in this area. Autism Res 2013, 6: 479–493. © 2013 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Small‐Peptide‐Based Organogel Kit: Towards the Development of Multicomponent Self‐Sorting Organogels
Authors: Afrasiabi Rouzbeh , Kraatz Heinz‐Bernhard
Published: October 2013

The results presented here highlight the extremely useful nature of ultra‐short peptides as building blocks in the development of smart multicomponent supramolecular devices. A facile bottom‐up strategy for the synthesis of a small library of stimuli‐responsive smart organogelators has been proposed based on the predictive self‐assembly of ultra‐short peptides. More importantly, the narcissistic self‐sorting of the gelators has been evaluated as a simple method for the efficient co‐assembly of a donor–acceptor dual‐component gel, allowing the investigation of possible future applications of similar systems in the development of a supramolecular photo‐conversion device. Interestingly, it was observed that the self‐organization of the components can lead to highly ordered systems in which discrimination between compatible and non‐compatible building blocks directs the effective organization of the chromophores and gives rise to the formation of an excited‐state complex with exciplex‐like emission. The current report may prove important in the development of organogel‐based multicomponent smart devices.
Effect of exercise on patient specific abdominal aortic aneurysm flow topology and mixing
Authors: Arzani Amirhossein , Les Andrea S. , Dalman Ronald L. , Shadden Shawn C.
Published: October 2013

Computational fluid dynamics modeling was used to investigate changes in blood transport topology between rest and exercise conditions in five patient‐specific abdominal aortic aneurysm models. MRI was used to provide the vascular anatomy and necessary boundary conditions for simulating blood velocity and pressure fields inside each model. Finite‐time Lyapunov exponent fields and associated Lagrangian coherent structures were computed from blood velocity data and were used to compare features of the transport topology between rest and exercise both mechanistically and qualitatively. A mix‐norm and mix‐variance measure based on fresh blood distribution throughout the aneurysm over time were implemented to quantitatively compare mixing between rest and exercise. Exercise conditions resulted in higher and more uniform mixing and reduced the overall residence time in all aneurysms. Separated regions of recirculating flow were commonly observed in rest, and these regions were either reduced or removed by attached and unidirectional flow during exercise, or replaced with regional chaotic and transiently turbulent mixing, or persisted and even extended during exercise. The main factor that dictated the change in flow topology from rest to exercise was the behavior of the jet of blood penetrating into the aneurysm during systole. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Two Faces of Hydrogen‐Bond Strength on Triple AAA–DDD Arrays
Authors: Lopez Alfredo Henrique Duarte , Caramori Giovanni Finoto , Coimbra Daniel Fernando , Parreira Renato Luis Tame , da Silva Éder Henrique
Published: October 2013

Systems that are connected through multiple hydrogen bonds are the cornerstone of molecular recognition processes in biology, and they are increasingly being employed in supramolecular chemistry, specifically in molecular self‐assembly processes. For this reason, the effects of different substituents (NO2, CN, F, Cl, Br, OCH3 and NH2) on the electronic structure, and consequently on the magnitude of hydrogen bonds in triple AAA–DDD arrays (A=acceptor, D=donor) were evaluated in the light of topological [electron localization function (ELF) and quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM)], energetic [Su–Li energy‐decomposition analysis (EDA) and natural bond orbital analysis (NBO)], and geometrical analysis. The results based on local H‐bond descriptors (geometries, QTAIM, ELF, and NBO) indicate that substitutions with electron‐withdrawing groups on the AAA module tend to strengthen, whereas electron‐donating substituents tend to weaken the covalent character of the AAA–DDD intermolecular H‐bonds, and also indicate that the magnitude of the effect is dependent on the position of substitution. In contrast, Su–Li EDA results show an opposite behavior when compared to local H‐bond descriptors, indicating that electron‐donating substituents tend to increase the magnitude of H‐bonds in AAA–DDD arrays, and thus suggesting that the use of local H‐bond descriptors describes the nature of H bonds only partially, not providing enough insight about the strength of such H bonds.
Quantification of anandamide and 2‐arachidonoylglycerol plasma levels to examine potential influences of tetrahydrocannabinol application on the endocannabinoid system in humans
Authors: Thieme Ulrike , Schelling Gustav , Hauer Daniela , Greif Robert , Dame Torsten , Laubender Ruediger Paul , Bernhard Werner , Thieme Detlef , Campolongo Patrizia , Theiler Lorenz
Published: October 2013

The effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and endogenous cannabinoids (endocannabinoids, ECs) are both mediated by activation of the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. Exogenous activation of these receptors by THC could therefore alter EC levels. We tested this hypothesis in healthy volunteers (n = 25) who received a large intravenous dose of THC (0.10 mg/kg). Effects on the EC system were quantified by serial measurements of plasma ECs after THC administration. Eleven blood samples were drawn during the first 5 h after THC administration and two more samples after 24 and 48 h. THC, its metabolites THC‐OH (biologically active) and THC‐COOH (non‐active), and the ECs anandamide and 2‐arachidonoylglycerol (2‐AG) were quantified by liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry. EC‐plasma levels showed a biphasic response after THC injection reaching maximal values at 30 min. Anandamide increased slightly from 0.58 ± 0.21 ng/ml at baseline to 0.64 ± 0.24 ng/ml (p < 0.05) and 2‐AG from 7.60 ± 4.30 ng/ml to 9.50 ± 5.90 ng/ml (p < 0.05). After reaching maximal concentrations, EC plasma levels decreased markedly to a nadir of 300 min after THC administration (to 0.32 ± 0.15 ng/ml for anandamide and to 5.50 ± 3.01 ng/ml for 2‐AG, p < 0.05). EC plasma concentrations returned to near baseline levels until 48 h after the experiment. THC (0.76 ± 0.16 ng/ml) and THC‐OH (0.36 ± 0.17 ng/ml) were still measurable at 24 h and remained detectible until 48 h after THC administration. Although the underlying mechanism is not clear, high doses of intravenous THC appear to influence endogenous cannabinoid concentrations and presumably EC‐signalling. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Temporal variations in the linkage between the net ecosystem exchange of water vapour and CO2over boreal forests in eastern Siberia
Authors: Kotani Ayumi , Kononov Alexander V. , Ohta Takeshi , Maximov Trofim C.
Published: October 2013

This study investigated evapotranspiration and CO2exchange, observed by the eddy covariance method, over two larch‐dominated forests, in the middle part of the Lena basin, eastern Siberia. Compared with the Spasskaya Pad (SP) forest, the Elgeeii (EG) forest had more plant biomass and a soil texture that allowed for larger water retention. Observations in three growing seasons revealed that the two sites had similar seasonal patterns of meteorological conditions and almost the same total evapotranspiration; however, the net and gross uptakes of CO2at the EG forest were 1·61 and 1·31 times those at the SP forest, respectively. The difference in aboveground biomass was probably responsible for the higher productivity at EG. Less aboveground biomass would result in less transpiration by trees at SP, which would be compensated for in total evapotranspiration by soil evaporation and transpiration by the forest floor vegetation. It is likely that forest transpiration is commonly optimized to the same level of evapotranspiration under similar meteorological conditions through differences in the contributions of evapotranspiration from the forest floor vegetation and the soil water availability. Water use efficiency (WUE) displayed different patterns, reflecting the seasonal variations in each flux. Seasonal sequences in the WUE at EG indicated a midsummer depletion, which is commonly observed in forest ecosystems under a broad climate. Daily variation corresponding to the vapour pressure deficit and the cloud cover conditions (reduced solar radiation) was also observed. In contrast, WUE was relatively invariable at the seasonal and daily scales at SP. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tandem Synthesis of 9,10‐Dihydro‐9,10‐diboraanthracenes via Elusive ortho‐Lithiated Phenylboronates
Authors: Luliński Sergiusz , Smętek Jaromir , Durka Krzysztof , Serwatowski Janusz
Published: October 2013

A simple general protocol is reported for the synthesis of functionalised 9,10‐dihydroxy‐9,10‐dihydro‐9,10‐diboraanthracenes by treatment of the appropriate substituted (2‐halophenyl)boronates with tBuLi. The reaction apparently occurs through the formation of ortho‐lithiated phenylboronates. These elusive species possess a trivalent Lewis‐acidic boron atom in the vicinity of a strongly nucleophilic lithiated carbon atom. The results of DFT calculations indicate that Br/Li exchange is kinetically favored over nucleophilic alkylation of the boron atom, which contrasts with the behaviour of the sterically less hindered nBuLi. The results are consistent with lower yields of 9,10‐dihydro‐9,10‐diboraanthracenes obtained by using the latter reagent. Subsequent steps of the cascade reaction sequence involve trapping of the reactive lithium/boron intermediate in situ with the starting boronate, followed by a second halogen/lithium exchange and final ring closure. Isolation of 9,10‐dihydroxy‐9,10‐dihydro‐9,10‐diboraanthracenes was further aided by their complexation with 8‐hydroxyquinoline.
Hydroxy‐Directed Cyclopropanation of Esters: Synthesis of Trisubstituted Cyclopropanols
Authors: Astashko Dmitry , Cha Jin Kun , Rao Nagavaram Narsimha , Parida Bibhuti Bhusan
Published: October 2013

The Kulinkovich cyclopropanation of esters with disubstituted homoallylic alcohols is described for the preparation of 1,2,3‐trisubstituted cyclopropanols. Central to the successful implementation is the generation in situ of a temporary alkoxy tether between a homoallylic alcohol and an alkoxytitanium species to override unfavorable steric factors.
Pathological functions of interleukin-22 in chronic liver inflammation and fibrosis with hepatitis B virus infection by promoting T helper 17 cell recruitment
Authors: Zhao Juanjuan , Zhang Zheng , Luan Yan , Zou Zhengsheng , Sun Yanling , Li Yonggang , Jin Lei , Zhou Chunbao , Fu Junliang , Gao Bin , Fu Yangxin , Wang Fu-Sheng
Published: October 2013

It is well established that interleukin (IL)-22 has hepatoprotective and antifibrotic functions in acute liver injury models; however, its function in patients with liver fibrosis and liver cirrhosis (LC) remains obscure. In the current study, we demonstrated that expression of numerous IL-22 pathway-associated genes was significantly up-regulated in hepatitis B virus (HBV)-infected liver tissues, compared to normal controls, through microarray analysis. In agreement with these findings, liver-infiltrating IL-22+ cells were largely increased in HBV-infected patients with LC, compared to those without LC or healthy subjects, and were positively associated with liver fibrosis staging scores. Immunohistochemistry and flow cytometric analyses revealed that IL-22 was produced by multiple intrahepatic immune cells and, preferentially, by T-helper (Th) 17 cells in LC patients. In an HBV transgenic (Tg) mouse model of T-cell-mediated chronic liver inflammation and fibrosis, blockade of IL-22 attenuated hepatic expression of chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 10 and chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 20 (CCL20) and subsequently reduced Th17 recruitment and liver inflammation and fibrosis progression. In vitro treatment with IL-22 stimulated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) to secrete several chemokines and subsequently promoted Th17 cell chemotaxis. Blocking C-X-C chemokine receptor type 3 or CCL20 reduced Th17 cell chemotaxis by IL-22-treated HSCs. Conclusions: IL-22 plays a pathological role in exacerbating chronic liver inflammation and fibrosis by recruiting hepatic Th17 cells in HBV-infected patients and HBV Tg mice. (HEPATOLOGY 2014;59:1331-1342)
HRM Systems for Knowledge Workers: Differences Among Top Managers, Middle Managers, and Professional Employees
Authors: Krausert Achim
Published: October 2013

This theoretical study contributes to the debate in the field of strategic HRM on whether HRM systems should differ across employee groups within the firm. It explores differences in the efficacy of two HRM systems—high‐involvement HR and internal labor market systems—across top management teams, middle managers, and professional employees. In addition, it examines factors that may prevent the adoption of effective HRM systems for these groups of knowledge workers. A model is proposed depicting how four job‐level moderators influence the HRM‐performance relationship and how these moderators apply to each of the three employee groups. Short‐term performance pressures and favoritism in staffing are proposed as factors that may hinder the adoption of effective HRM systems. Finally, HRM systems for different employee groups are classified based on their gains potential and barriers to implementation, yielding four categories of strategic HRM activity metaphorically labeled low‐hanging fruits, high‐hanging fruits, peanuts, and barren land. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Interconnected, microporous hollow fibers for tissue engineering: Commercially relevant, industry standard scale‐up manufacturing
Authors: Tuin Stephen A. , Pourdeyhimi Behnam , Loboa Elizabeth G.
Published: October 2013

Significant progress has been achieved in the field of tissue engineering to create functional tissue using biomimetic three‐dimensional scaffolds that support cell growth, proliferation, and extracellular matrix production. However, many of these constructs are severely limited by poor nutrient diffusion throughout the tissue‐engineered construct, resulting in cell death and tissue necrosis at the core. Nutrient transport can be improved by creation and use of scaffolds with hollow and microporous fibers, significantly improving permeability and nutrient diffusion. The purpose of this review is to highlight current technological advances in the fabrication of hollow fibers with interconnected pores throughout the fiber walls, with specific emphasis on developing hollow porous nonwoven fabrics for use as tissue engineering constructs via industry standard processing technologies: Spunbond processing and polymer melt extrusion. We outline current methodologies to create hollow and microporous scaffolds with the aim of translating that knowledge to the production of such fibers into nonwoven tissue engineering scaffolds via spunbond technology, a commercially relevant and viable melt extrusion manufacturing approach that allows for facile scale‐up. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 3311–3323, 2014.
Synthesis of New Types of N‐Arylpiperazine Phosphoramide Analogues of Chrysin
Authors: Chen Xiao‐Lan , Li Xi‐Yong , Yuan Jin‐Wei , Qu Zhi‐Bo , Jiang Yu‐Qin , Qu Ling‐Bo
Published: October 2013

Several N‐arylpiperazine phosphoramide analogues of chrysin are synthesized through a facile phosphorylated reaction for the first time. Their structures are elucidated by NMR, ESI MS, IR and Element analysis. The results showed that the phosphorylation action occurred regioselectively only at the hydroxyl group of 7 position of chrysin.
One‐Pot, Three‐Component Condensation of Aldehydes, 2‐Naphthol and 1,3‐Dicarbonyl Compounds
Authors: Mo Li‐Ping , Chen Hong‐Li
Published: October 2013

A practical and efficient procedure for the one‐pot multicomponent couping of aryl aldehydes, 2‐naphthol and cyclic 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds using perchloric acid adsorbed on silica gel (HClO4‐SiO2) as a highly efficient, inexpensive, convenient, reusable heterogeneous catalyst under solvent‐free conditions has been developed. Various biologically important 12‐aryl‐8,9,10,12‐tetrahydrobenzo[a]xanthen‐11‐one derivatives have been efficiently synthesized in high to excellent yields. The present approach offers several advantages such as shorter reaction times, simple work‐up, excellent yields, low cost, and mild reaction conditions. Furthermore, the catalyst can be recovered simply and reused without appreciable loss of its catalytic activity.
A Monomer‐Micelle Model for the Formation of Simple Taurocholate Micelles
Authors: Yang June‐Wen , Higuchi William I. , Chiang Huey‐Jenn , Liu Chen‐Lun
Published: October 2013

A kinetic dialysis technique was used to validate a relationship between monomer taurocholate (TC) concentration and total TC concentration in TC solutions containing 0.15 M NaCl and 0.01 M buffer (pH = 7.4). Based on the experimental data and Mukerjee's equations, the number average degree and the weight average degree of TC aggregates were estimated to be nearly the same (∼5), indicating that simple TC micelles were the only aggregates. Furthermore, the TC dimer concentration was quantified to be negligible. According to the validated relationship, aggregation number of 5 for simple TC micelles, and the definition of critical micelle concentration (CMC), a modified monomer‐micelle model was used for describing simple TC micelle formation. Moreover, the CMC value was estimated to be ∼6.3 mM, which is consistent with the reported value of ∼6.0 mM.
Analytical Applications of 2,6‐Diacetylpyridine‐bis‐4‐phenyl‐3‐thiosemicarbazone (2,6‐DAPBPTSC): Determination of Cd(II) in Foods and Water Samples
Authors: Reddy S. Adinarayana , Reddy K. Janardhan , Reddy A. Varada
Published: October 2013

To the determination of trace amount of Cd(II) present in food and water samples, a selective and extractive spectrophotometric method were developed with 2,6‐diacetylpyridine‐bis‐4‐phenyl‐3‐thiosemicarbazone as a complexing agent. The yellowish orange colored metal complex, Cd(II)‐2,6‐DAPBPTSC with 1:1 (M:L) composition was extracted in to cyclohexanol at pH 9.5 and was shows maximum absorbance at λmax 390 nm. This method obeys Beer's law in the range of 1.12‐11.25 ppm with 0.972 correlation coefficient of Cd(II)‐2,6‐DAPBPTSC complex, which is indicates linearity between the two variables. The molar absorptivity and sandell's sensitivity were found to be 6.088 × 104 L mol−1 cm−1 and 0.0018 μg cm−2, respectively. The instability constant calculated from Asmus' method (1.447 × 10−4)at room temperature. The precision and accuracy of the method were checked by relative standard deviation (n = 5), 0.929 and its detection limit, 0.0060 μg mL−1. The interfering effects of various cations and anions were also studied. The proposed method was successfully applied to the determination of Cd(II) in foods and water samples, and was evaluated its performance in terms of Student ‘t’ test and Variance ‘f’ test, which indicates the significance of present method. The inter comparison of the experimental values, using atomic absorption spectrometer (AAS), was also repoted.
Antibacterial Constituents from Isodon Excisoides
Authors: He Zhi‐An , Lu Guang‐Zhou , Zhu Lin‐Lin , Wang Yong‐Xue , Yan Fu‐Lin , Zhang Ji‐Xia
Published: October 2013

Two new ent‐kaurane diterpenoids, taihangexcisoidesin C (1) and its acetonide, taihangexcisoidesin D (2), along with 9 known compounds were isolated from the leaves of Isodon excisoides. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated using 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy analysis. Compounds 3‐6 and 8‐9 were tested for their antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis and S. saprophyticus. Compound 6 showed inhibitory effects on Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis and S. saprophyticus MIC values 32, 16 and 16 μg/mL, respectively. All of the compounds didn't show effects on Escherichia coli (MIC > 10 mg/mL).
Synthesis and Antibacterial Evaluation of Some Semicarbazides and 1,2,4‐Triazol‐5‐Ones Containing Thiophene Moieties
Authors: Pitucha Monika , Olender Alina , Wujec Monika , Borowski Piotr , Mardarowicz Marek
Published: October 2013

In this study, some 3‐(thiophen‐2‐ylmethyl)‐4‐substituted‐4,5‐dihydro‐1H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐5‐one derivatives were synthesized by the cyclization reaction of 1‐(thiophen‐2‐ylacetyl)‐4‐substituted semicarbazide derivatives in alkaline medium or in the immediate reaction of thiophen‐2‐yl‐acetic acid hydrazide with isocyanates. The structures of all new compounds were confirmed by analytical and spectroscopic methods. Selected derivatives were evaluated in vitro against several species of aerobic bacteria. Some of them showed activity against S. pyogenes, P. aeruginosa and S. aureus.
Apparent diffusion coefficient measurements as very early predictive markers of response to chemotherapy in hepatic metastasis: A preliminary investigation of reproducibility and diagnostic value
Authors: Deckers Filip , De Foer Bert , Van Mieghem François , Botelberge Thomas , Weytjens Reinhilde , Padhani Anwar , Pouillon Marc
Published: October 2013

Purpose

To evaluate the reproducibility and diagnostic value of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) as an early predictor of response to chemotherapy of liver metastasis in routine clinical practice.

Materials and Methods

A prospective study of 20 patients with histologically proven primary tumors with liver metastases was undertaken. Diffusion weighted MRI was performed twice before and 12–14 days after the start of treatment. Absolute and liver normalized ADC values were calculated. Bland Altman statistics were used to assess the reproducibility of ADC change for predicting lesion response as measured by RECIST.

Results

Nineteen of 31 metastases responded. Significant increases in absolute and normalized ADC values were found in responding (mean +208.7 × 10−6 m2/s and +18% respectively, both P < 0.001) compared with nonresponding lesions (mean +98.6 × 10−6 m2/s and 2%, respectively, P = 0.09 and 0.519). Reproducibility was better using normalized ADC compared with absolute ADC values (within patient coefficient of variability 8.0% and 10.1%, respectively). Using the repeatability threshold of ±22.3% for normalized ADC, only 8 of 19 responding and all but one nonresponding lesions could be prospectively detected.

Conclusion

Increases in ADC values in responding liver metastases occurred within days after the start of chemotherapy but were of smaller magnitude than the variability of ADC measurement. These preliminary data suggest that the presently used technique is not reliable enough to predict final response at such an early time point in individual lesions. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2014;40:448–456. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Apoptotic mediators in patients with severe and non‐severe dengue from Brazil
Authors: Limonta Daniel , Torrentes‐Carvalho Amanda , Marinho Cíntia Ferreira , de Azeredo Elzinandes Leal , de Souza Luiz José , Motta‐Castro Ana Rita C. , da Cunha Rivaldo Venâncio , Kubelka Claire Fernandes , Nogueira Rita Maria Ribeiro , de‐Oliveira‐Pinto Luzia Maria
Published: October 2013

Despite being the most significant arboviral disease worldwide, dengue has no antiviral treatment or reliable severity predictors. It has been shown that apoptotic cells from blood and tissues may be involved in the complex pathogenesis of dengue. However, very little is known about the interplay between proapoptotic and antiapoptotic mediators in this disease. Therefore, plasma levels of the three proapoptotic mediators Fas ligand (FasL), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), and TNF‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (TRAIL) were measured in dengue patients. Patients were classified according to the World Health Organization classification of dengue revised in 2009. Additionally, inhibitors of apoptosis protein (IAPs) were determined in plasma (Survivin) and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) lysates (cIAP‐1, cIAP‐2, XIAP). Levels of apoptotic proteins in plasma were correlated with counts of blood cells. FasL and TRAIL levels were elevated in dengue patients without warning signs when compared to patients with severe dengue and controls. Dengue patients with warning signs showed decreased levels of Survivin compared to patients with severe dengue and controls. TRAIL was inversely correlated with counts of lymphocyte subsets. In contrast, Survivin was positively correlated with leukocyte counts. There was a trend of elevated IAPs levels in PBMCs of patients with severe dengue. The results suggest a likely antiviral effect of TRAIL in dengue. It appears that TRAIL might be involved with apoptosis induction of lymphocytes, whereas IAPs might participate in protecting leukocytes from apoptosis. Further research is needed to explore the interactions between pro and antiapoptotic molecules and their implications in dengue pathogenesis. J. Med. Virol. 86:1437–1447, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sequence analysis of diamine oxidase gene from fava bean and its expression related to γ‐aminobutyric acid accumulation in seeds germinating under hypoxia‐NaCl stress
Authors: Yang Runqiang , Yin Yongqi , Guo Liping , Han Yongbin , Gu Zhenxin
Published: October 2013

BACKGROUND

γ‐Aminobutyric acid (GABA) is synthesized via the polyamine degradation pathway in plants, with diamine oxidase (DAO) being the key enzyme. In this study the cDNA of DAO in fava bean was cloned and its expression in seeds germinating under hypoxia‐NaCl stress was investigated.

RESULTS

Fava bean DAO cDNA is 2199 bp long and contains 2025 bp of open reading frame that encodes 675 amino acid peptides with a calculated molecular weight of 76.31 kDa and a pI of 5.41. Hypoxia and hypoxia‐NaCl stress enhanced DAO activity and resulted in GABA accumulation in germinating fava bean. However, DAO gene expression was down‐regulated under hypoxia compared with non‐stress condition, while its expression in the cotyledon and shoot was up‐regulated under hypoxia‐NaCl. In addition, DAO expression could be promoted to enhance GABA accumulation after increasing the stress intensity using NaCl. DAO gene expression was significantly inhibited by aminoguanidine treatment under hypoxia but increased under hypoxia‐NaCl.

CONCLUSION

Under hypoxia, GABA accumulation due to NaCl was mainly concentrated in the cotyledon. The GABA content increase under hypoxia did not result from DAO gene expression, but DAO existing in seeds was activated under hypoxia. DAO gene expression was up‐regulated to enhance GABA accumulation after increasing the stress intensity. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry