bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developmental regulation of neural map formation in the mouse olfactory system
Authors: Nishizumi Hirofumi , Sakano Hitoshi
Published: February 2015

In the mouse olfactory system, various odorants are detected by approximately 1000 different odorant receptors (ORs) expressed in the olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs). It is well established that each OSN expresses only one functional OR gene in a monoallelic manner. Furthermore, OSN axons expressing the same OR converge to a set of glomeruli in the olfactory bulb (OB). During embryonic development, a coarse map is formed by the combination of two genetically programmed processes. One is OR‐independent axonal projection along the dorsal‐ventral (D‐V) axis, and the other is OR‐dependent projection along the anterior‐posterior (A‐P) axis. D‐V projection is regulated by the anatomical location of OSNs within the olfactory epithelium (OE), whereas A‐P projection is instructed by expressed OR molecules using cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signals. After birth, the map is further refined in an activity‐dependent manner by its conversion from a continuous to a discrete map through segregation of glomerular structures. Here, we summarize recent progress from our laboratory in understanding neural map formation in the mouse olfactory system. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 75: 594–607, 2015
Antioxidant activity and phytochemical content of cold‐pressed rapeseed oil obtained from roasted seeds
Authors: Siger Aleksander , Kaczmarek Aleksandra , Rudzińska Magdalena
Published: February 2015

An analytic comparison was made of cold‐pressed rapeseed oil produced from unroasted seeds and cold‐pressed oil produced from seeds that had previously undergone roasting at temperatures of 140, 160, and 180°C for 5, 10, and 15 min. It was determined whether the duration and temperature of roasting have any qualitative and quantitative effects on the contents of the native antioxidants (tocopherol, PC‐8, phenolic compounds, canolol, and phytosterols) found in rapeseed oil. At the same time, changes in the antioxidant activity of oils produced from roasted seeds were determined. It was shown that roasting has no significant effect on the quality of cold‐pressed oils. The peroxide value of the oils ranged from 2.03 to 3.48 meq O2/kg, while the acid value did not exceed 0.68 mg KOH/g. Slight changes were observed in oils in terms of tocochromanol contents. A decrease was seen mostly in the level of the α‐T homologue, with an increase in the contents of γ‐T and PC‐8 (in oil from seeds roasted at 180°C). In the oil from the unroasted seeds, the canolol content was 11.54 μg/g oil. It was shown that increases both in temperature and in duration of seed roasting result in a statistically significant increase in the canolol content of cold‐pressed oils. For the seed roasted at 180°C for 15 min, this increase was fifty‐fold (609.94 μg canolol/g oil). The same roasting conditions also led to a twofold increase in the antioxidant activity of the oil.

Practical applications: Cold‐pressed oils are increasingly frequently chosen by consumers due to their reputation as good source of bioactive components. An obvious example of such a food product is cold‐pressed rapeseed oil made from roasted seeds, in which the levels of canolol—a product of the decarboxylation of sinapic acid—is markedly increased. This compound is ascribed strong antioxidant properties, as well as antimutagenic and anticarcinogenic properties. Such oils truly deserve to be labeled bioactive products.

An analytic comparison was made of cold‐pressed rapeseed oil produced from unroasted seeds and cold‐pressed oil produced from seeds that had previously undergone roasting at temperatures of 140, 160, and 180°C for 5, 10, and 15 min. It was determined whether the duration and temperature of roasting have any qualitative and quantitative effects on the contents of the native antioxidants (tocopherol, PC‐8, phenolic compounds, canolol, and phytosterols) found in rapeseed oil. In the oil from the unroasted seeds, the canolol content was 11.54 μg/g oil. It was shown that increases both in temperature and in duration of seed roasting result in a statistically significant increase in the canolol content of cold‐pressed oils. For the seed roasted at 180°C for 15 min, this increase was fiftyfold (609.94 μg canolol/g oil). The same roasting conditions also led to a twofold increase in the antioxidant activity of the oil.
Modulation of bitterness and pungency in virgin olive oil from unripe “Picual” fruits
Authors: Aguilera Maria P. , Jimenez Antonio , Sanchez‐Villasclaras Sebastián , Uceda Marino , Beltran Gabriel
Published: February 2015

Singular virgin olive oils (VOOs) come from unripe olives that show different characteristics affecting processing and oil sensory properties. This work is aimed to study the effect of olive paste malaxation conditions on phenolic fraction and intensities of bitter and pungent sensations in VOOs from unripe “Picual” olives. Experiments were carried out using “Picual” fruits harvested at early dates for three consecutive crop seasons. The malaxation conditions assayed using a factorial design were: time (60 and 90 min), temperature (18, 30, and 40°C) and micronized talc addition (0 and 1%). The main factors affecting oil phenol content were the crop year, malaxation temperatures, and micronized talc addition whereas for malaxation time the effect was not significant. The high olive fruit moistures had a great importance in the oil phenol content and the related sensory parameters. Results indicated as for higher temperature the phenol content and bitterness K225 increased although its effect varied by crop year. Micronized natural talc addition increased the total phenol content and the K225 values. When intensities of pungency and bitterness of the oils were ranked by sensory analysis those obtained at lower temperature were classified as less bitter and pungent. Therefore for early harvesting dates the kneading conditions can be regulated to obtain VOOs with different sensory characteristics and phenol content.

Practical applications: Effect of paste malaxation conditions on the virgin olive oil (VOO) bitterness, pungency, and phenolics has been studied for early harvested “Picual” fruit. Bitterness and pungency in “Picual” VOO could be modulated by regulating the malaxation temperature achieving the lower intensities at 18°C without micronized talc addition.

Temperature was the olive paste malaxation variable with the highest effect on phenol content in virgin olive oil from early harvested “Picual” fruits. Lower temperature reduced oil phenol content and then, its bitterness and pungent intensities.
A Near‐Infrared Fluorescence Probe for Thiols Based on Analyte‐Specific Cleavage of Carbamate and Its Application in Bioimaging
Authors: Zhang Jianjian , Yu Bianfei , Ning Lulu , Zhu Xinyue , Wang Jianxi , Chen Zhenjie , Liu Xiaoyan , Yao Xiaojun , Zhang Xiaoyu , Zhang Haixia
Published: February 2015

With increasing interest in optical in vivo imaging, there is a corresponding increase in demand for near‐infrared (NIR) dyes. Such probes can be used, for example, to detect intracellular GSH, which would be helpful for understanding the mechanisms of diseases. In this work, we report a cyanine‐based fluorescent probe that undergoes biothiol‐promoted specific O–S cleavage and subsequent self‐immolation through intramolecular 1,6‐elimination. In addition, we investigated the cell viability of the system and successfully applied the probe to living cells, in vivo, and in various tissues.
One‐Step Synthesis of Dicarboxamides through Pd‐Catalysed Aminocarbonylation with Diamines as N‐Nucleophiles
Authors: Carrilho Rui M. B. , Almeida Ana R. , Kiss Mercédesz , Kollár László , Skoda‐Földes Rita , Dąbrowski Janusz M. , Moreno Maria José S. M. , Pereira Mariette M.
Published: February 2015

An efficient one‐step synthetic strategy was used to prepare a set of dicarboxamides through palladium‐catalysed aminocarbonylation of iodoalkenyl and iodoaryl compounds, with use of various alkyl‐ and aryldiamines as N‐nucleophiles. The isolated yields of the dicarboxamides depended significantly on the iodo substrate and diamine structures, as well as on the reaction conditions, the best one (ca. 70 %) being achieved with 1‐iodocyclohexene as substrate and 1,4‐diaminobutane as nucleophile, at 100 °C and 30 bar of CO. When iodobenzene was used as model aryl halide, the highest yield of the target dibenzamides (ca. 65 %) was obtained with 1,4‐diaminobenzene as coupling amine, at 100 °C and 10 bar of CO. Preliminary studies on their in vitro cytotoxicity against human lung carcinoma A549 cells showed N,N′‐(butane‐1,4‐diyl)dibenzamide and androst‐16‐ene‐based dicarboxamides to be the most efficient cytotoxic agents, with IC50 values of approximately 40 μM.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Neoglycoconjugates Based on Adamantyl Scaffolds
Authors: Fleck Carsten , Memmel Elisabeth , Fölsing Moritz , Poll Bernhard , Hackl Thomas , Seibel Jürgen , Maison Wolfgang
Published: February 2015

Lectin–carbohydrate interactions are important for many biological processes of high pharmaceutical interest. Multivalent carbohydrate conjugates (glycoclusters) have been frequently used to study and manipulate these interactions. In this report, we present the synthesis of trimeric glucose and mannose conjugates that have been assembled with an AB3 scaffold based on adamantane. Several neoglycoconjugates bearing three carbohydrates have been synthesized with different ethylene glycol spacers between the sugar moieties and the adamantyl core. An additional orthogonal functionality at the remaining adamantane bridgehead position allows the conjugation of these trimeric cluster glycosides to other functional molecules such as fluorescent dyes or a solid support for the construction of glycoarrays. We have evaluated the binding properties of trivalent carbohydrate derivatives to ConA as a model lectin in solution by STD‐NMR and on a lectin array by using fluorescent glycoconjugates.
Expedient Synthesis of Homochiral 1‐Aryl‐Substituted 4,5‐Dihydro‐1H‐imidazoles and Their Modification to N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Precursors
Authors: Latham Christopher M. , Lewis William , Blake Alexander J. , Woodward Simon
Published: February 2015

The amidoamines (S)‐Ar1CONHCHRCH2NHAr2 [Ar1 = o‐C6H4SO3H, R = Bn, iBu, iPr; Ar2 = 2,6‐iPr2C6H4, 2,6‐Et2C6H4, 2,4,6‐Me3C6H2] cyclise to (S) 1‐aryl‐substituted 4,5‐dihydro‐1H‐imidazolinium species with HC(OEt)3 in moderate‐to‐excellent yields on heating to 150–175 °C (nine examples, four isolated yields of 48 to >97 %). They are attained as their o‐C6H4(SO3–)(CO2Et) salts. The latter are readily deprotonated to afford analytically pure (S) 1‐aryl‐substituted 4,5‐dihydro‐1H‐imidazoles (imidazolines). The purification of the intermediate sulfonate salts is not always necessary, and analytically pure imidazolines are isolated by simple kugelrohr distillation (nine examples, 45–95 %) after basification. Imidazoline alkylation provides a library of (S)‐N‐alkylimidazolinium salts (23 examples, 74–97 %). As the initially required amidoamines are available in simple one‐pot reactions, the overall approach constitutes a rather efficient approach to this useful family of chiral N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligand precursors (effectively three steps from commercial N‐Boc‐α‐amino alcohols; BOC = tert‐butyloxycarbonyl).
Furan's Gambit: Electrophile‐Attack‐Triggered Sacrifice of Furan Rings for the Intramolecular Construction of Azaheterocycles
Authors: Trushkov Igor V. , Uchuskin Maxim G. , Butin Alexander V.
Published: February 2015

This review summarizes the results of recent investigations of intramolecular furan ring‐opening–azaheterocycle ring‐closing reactions induced by acid or electrophilic attack on the furan ring.
Surfactant‐supplemented mixed bacterial cultures to produce hydrogen from paperboard mill wastewater
Authors: Farghaly Ahmed , Tawfik Ahmed , Eldin Ibrahim Mona Gamal
Published: February 2015

Paperboard mill wastewater (PMW) mainly comprises complex compounds such as polysaccharides and lignin that are recalcitrant to microbial and enzymatic action. Surfactants supplementation was found to improve the enzymatic hydrolysis and reduce lignin content during anaerobic digestion process. However, much less attention has been given for the effectiveness of surfactants addition on hydrogen production from PMW under hyperthermophilic conditions. In this study, the mixed bacterial culture was supplemented with surfactants, namely PEG 6000 and Tween 80 (T80), to enhance the biodegradation process and hydrogen yield (HY). The results showed that increasing the concentration of T80 from 0.25 to 1.75% v/v significantly (p < 0.001) increased HY from 1.7 ± 0.02 to 2.6 ± 0.01 mmol/gCODinitial (where COD is chemical oxygen demand), respectively. However, with further increase in the concentration of T80 up to 2.5%, the HY dropped to 2 ± 0.04 mmol/gCODinitial. This was mainly due to a higher propionate (HPr) production. Similar trends were observed for PEG, where the maximum HY of 2.8 ± 0.02 mmol/gCODinitial was achieved at a concentration of 0.75 mg/L, which deteriorated at higher and lower concentrations of PEG. Fermentative hydrogen of 700 m3/day of PMW could support about 16.4% of total primary energy consumption of the factory.
Microstructural brain abnormalities in Huntington's disease: A two‐year follow‐up
Authors: Odish Omar F. F. , Leemans Alexander , Reijntjes Robert H.A.M. , van den Bogaard Simon J. A. , Dumas Eve M. , Wolterbeek Ron , Tax Chantal M. W. , Kuijf Hugo J. , Vincken Koen L. , van der Grond Jeroen , Roos Raymund A. C.
Published: February 2015

Objectives

To investigate both cross‐sectional and time‐related changes of striatal and whole‐brain microstructural properties in different stages of Huntington's disease (HD) using diffusion tensor imaging.

Experimental design

From the TRACK‐HD study, premanifest gene carriers (preHD), early manifest HD and controls were scanned at baseline and 2‐year follow‐up. Stratification of the preHD group into a far (preHD‐A) and near (preHD‐B) to predicted disease onset was performed. Age‐corrected histograms of whole‐brain white matter (WM), gray matter (GM) and striatal diffusion measures were computed and normalised by the number of voxels in each subject's data set.

Principle observations

Higher cross‐sectional mean, axial and radial diffusivities were found in both WM (P ≤ 0.001) and GM (P ≤ 0.001) of the manifest HD compared to the preHD and control groups. In preHD, only WM axial diffusivity (AD) was higher than in controls (P ≤ 0.01). This finding remained valid only in preHD‐B (P ≤ 0.001). AD was also higher in the striatum of preHD‐B compared to controls and preHD‐A (P ≤ 0.01). Fractional anisotropy (FA) lacked sensitivity in differentiating between the groups. Histogram peak heights were generally lower in manifest HD compared to the preHD and control groups. No longitudinal differences were found in the degree of diffusivity change between the groups in the two year follow‐up. There was a significant relationship between diffusivity and neurocognitive measures.

Conclusions

Alterations in cross‐sectional diffusion profiles between manifest HD subjects and controls were evident, both in whole‐brain and striatum. In the preHD stage, only AD alterations were found, a finding suggesting that this metric is a sensitive marker for early change in HD prior to disease manifestation. The individual diffusivities were superior to FA in revealing pathologic microstructural brain alterations. Diffusion measures were well related to clinical functioning and disease stage. Hum Brain Mapp 36:2061–2074, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Healthcare Demand in the Presence of Discrete Price Changes
Authors: Gerfin Michael , Kaiser Boris , Schmid Christian
Published: February 2015

Deductibles in health insurance generate nonlinear budget sets and dynamic incentives. Using detailed individual health expenditure data from a Swiss health insurer, we estimate the response in healthcare demand to the discrete price increase generated by resetting the deductible at the start of each calendar year. We find that for individuals with high deductibles, healthcare demand drops by 27%. The decrease is most pronounced for inpatient care and prescription drugs. By contrast, for individuals with low deductibles, there is no significant change in healthcare demand (except for prescription drugs). Overall our results suggest that healthy individuals respond much stronger to the price change. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pooled analysis of the reports of pomalidomide after failure of lenalidomide and (or) bortezomib for multiple myeloma
Authors: Sheng Zhixin , Liu Guangyu
Published: February 2015

The use of pomalidomide after lenalidomide and (or) bortezomib failure in patients with multiple myeloma is not clearly clarified in clinical practice. We sought to compile the available clinical reports to better understand the effectiveness of pomalidomide after failure of lenalidomide and (or) bortezomib. We searched published reports including pomalidomide, lenalidomide and (or) bortezomib. Seven reports were identified. Pomalidomide‐based regimen was pomalidomide plus low‐dose dexamethasone (POM + LoDEX). Six randomized controlled trials enrolling a total of 641 patients that evaluated the treatment effects of pomalidomide after lenalidomide and (or) bortezomib failure in patients with multiple myeloma were included. Pooled results showed that the overall response rate (ORR) was 31% in the POM + LoDEX group. Analysis of heterogeneity showed very little (p = 0.997, I2 = 0%), suggesting that response rates of POM + LoDEX therapy were consistent across those included trials. Stable disease was achieved in 40% of 603 patients (heterogeneity: p = 0.980, I2 = 0%). In those >65 years, overall response was achieved in 32% of 71 patients (heterogeneity: p = 0.77, I2 = 0%). POM + LoDEX showed promising activity in the 95 patients with high‐risk cytogenetic abnormalities: ORR was 27% (heterogeneity: p = 0.97, I2 = 0%). In the pooled analysis, toxicity consisted primarily of myelosuppression: Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia was seen in 53% (heterogeneity: p = 0.857, I2 = 0%). Pomalidomide may produce clinical benefits in patients who had shown refractory on prior lenalidomide and (or) bortezomib therapy. Moreover, elder patients and high‐risk cytogenetic abnormalities were not negative predictors for pomalidomide response after lenalidomide and (or) bortezomib failure. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
MicroRNA‐410 functions as a tumor suppressor by targeting angiotensin II type 1 receptor in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Guo Rende , Gu Jianhua , Zhang Zhibin , Wang Yi , Gu Chuan
Published: February 2015

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) act as key regulators of gene expression in diverse biological processes and are intimately involved in tumorigenesis. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of miR‐410 in pancreatic cancer remain poorly understood. In this study, we found that miR‐410 overexpression suppressed pancreatic cancer cell growth in vitro and in vivo as well as cell invasion and migration. miR‐410 also resulted in G1/S cell‐cycle arrest. We then showed that angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AGTR1) was a direct target of miR‐410, with miR‐410 suppressing AGTR1 expression levels. In contrast, inhibition of miR‐410 increased the expression of AGTR1. Silencing of AGTR1 inhibited cell growth and invasion, similar to miR‐410 overexpression. In addition, we found that the induction of vascular endothelial growth factor and the activation of the ERK signaling pathway by angiotensin II were blocked by miR‐410, similar to the angiotensin II inhibitor losartan. miR‐410 overexpression inhibited angiogenesis in mice through the repression of CD31 expression. ERK pathway knockdown suppressed pancreatic cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and angiogenesis. Finally, we found that miR‐410 was downregulated in pancreatic cancer tissues compared to adjacent nontumor tissues, whereas AGTR1 was upregulated in pancreatic cancer tissues. Pearson correlation analysis showed that miR‐410 and AGTR1 were inversely expressed. In conclusion, our data indicate that miR‐410 suppresses pancreatic cancer growth, cell invasion, migration, and angiogenesis via the downregulation of AGTR1, acting as a tumor‐suppressive miRNA. In addition, our results suggest that miR‐410 is a potential diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target for patients with pancreatic cancer. © 2015 IUBMB Life, 67(1):42–53, 2015
Students' Playful Tactics
Authors: Rust Julie
Published: February 2015

By examining the ways in which high school students in two different English classes take up virtual self‐representation tactics in school‐based social networking sites, this article explores how young people carefully juggle the digital identities they adopt for the eyes of both peers and teachers. The data reveals that the students’ cultivation of selves are influenced by the affordances of the spaces they inhabit, and that the specific features of the online class network initiated three identity‐shaping tactics: inserting popular culture, adding humor, and engaging in gossip. Because these themes of self are distinct from the identity themes that typically emerge when students write traditional essays for English class, this work highlights the fact that educators face new challenges and opportunities when making room for informal, social digital spaces for curricular purposes.
Timely Degradation of Wip1 Phosphatase by APC/C Activator Protein Cdh1 is Necessary for Normal Mitotic Progression
Authors: Jeong Ho‐Chang , Gil Na‐Yeon , Lee Ho‐Soo , Cho Seung‐Ju , Kim Kyungtae , Chun Kwang‐Hoon , Cho Hyeseong , Cha Hyuk‐Jin
Published: February 2015

Wip1 belongs to the protein phosphatase C (PP2C) family, of which expression is up‐regulated by a number of external stresses, and serves as a stress modulator in normal physiological conditions. When overexpressed, premature dephosphorylation of stress‐mediators by Wip1 results in abrogation of tumor surveillance, thus Wip1 acts as an oncogene. Previously, the functional regulation of Wip1 in cell‐cycle progression by counteracting cellular G1 and G2/M checkpoint activity in response to DNA damage was reported. However, other than in stress conditions, the function and regulatory mechanism of Wip1 has not been fully determined. Herein, we demonstrated that protein regulation of Wip1 occurs in a cell cycle‐dependent manner, which is directly governed by APC/CCdh1 at the end of mitosis. In particular, we also showed evidence that Wip1 phosphatase activity is closely associated with its own protein stability, suggesting that reduced phosphatase activity of Wip1 during mitosis could trigger its degradation. Furthermore, to verify the physiological role of its phosphatase activity during mitosis, we established doxycycline‐inducible cell models, including a Wip1 wild type (WT) and phosphatase dead mutant (Wip1 DA). When ectopically expressing Wip1 WT, we observed a delay in the transition from metaphase to anaphase. In conclusion, these studies show that mitotic degradation of Wip1 by APC/CCdh1 is important for normal mitotic progression. J. Cell. Biochem. 116: 1602–1612, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
MicroRNA‐19b Reduces Hepatic Stellate Cell Proliferation by Targeting GRB2 in Hepatic Fibrosis Models In Vivo and In Vitro as Part of the Inhibitory Effect of Estradiol
Authors: Ge Shanfei , Xie Jianping , Liu Fei , He Jinni , He Jinwen
Published: February 2015

Estradiol (E2) is a major determinant of gender‐based differences in the development of hepatic fibrosis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous 19‐25 nucleotide, noncoding, single‐stranded RNAs that regulate gene expression by blocking the translation or decreasing the stability of mRNAs and play an important role in liver fibrosis. The mechanisms underlying the regulation of miRNAs by E2 remain largely unknown. In this study, miR‐19b levels were higher and were associated with lower GRB2 mRNA and protein levels in female rats more than in male rats. We also showed that miR‐19b levels were down‐regulated, were associated with the up‐regulation of GRB2 mRNA and protein levels in PS (porcine serum‐induced hepatic fibrosis) versus NS (normal control) groups and were up‐regulated when associated with the down‐regulation of GRB2 mRNA and protein levels in PS + E2 versus PS and in aHSC + E2 (estradiol treated aHSC) versus aHSC groups. MiR‐19b expression inhibited cell proliferation in aHSCs, and also down‐regulated GRB2 protein expression. The overexpression of miR‐19b inhibited cell growth and suppressed COL1A1 protein levels by decreasing the levels of GRB2. However, the forced expression of GRB2 partly rescued the effect of miR‐19b in the cells, attenuated cell proliferation, and suppressed the GRB2 protein level by up‐regulating the levels of GRB2. Taken together, these findings will shed light on the role of miR‐19b in regulating aHSC proliferation via the miR‐19b/GRB2 axis. This newly identified miR‐19b/GRB2 interaction provided novel insights into the suppressive effect of E2 on HSC proliferation and might facilitate the development of therapies targeting hepatic fibrosis. J. Cell. Biochem. 116: 2455–2464, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Calcium, Is It Better to Have Less?—Global Health Perspectives
Authors: Shin Chan Soo , Kim Kyoung Min
Published: February 2015

Appropriate calcium intake is necessary for the accrual and maintenance of bone mass. A significant proportion of the world's population does not have adequate calcium intake, and thus, supplementation plays a key role in maintaining bone homeostasis and other aspects of health. Since a series of reports from the Auckland calcium study and meta‐analysis indicated that calcium supplementation was associated with an increased risk for adverse cardiovascular events, concern over the safety of calcium supplementation has grown; however, considerable inconsistencies in the reproducibility were found and questions regarding the study methodologies have been raised. In addition, since the increased adverse cardiovascular events by calcium supplementation were observed in calcium‐replete subjects, it should be clarified whether the same risk profile would be observed in countries with low calcium intake. Dietary calcium intake varies widely across the world; cardiovascular event risk factors and outcomes also vary and appear to be the opposite of calcium intake levels. Furthermore, the effects of calcium supplementation were shown to depend on dietary calcium intake, with a better bone mineral density response for low calcium intake subjects compared to that in calcium‐replete subjects. Based on these evidences, the risk‐benefit ratio of calcium supplement is likely to be different in different region of the world. Therefore, accumulation of evidence to establish population‐specific guidelines for calcium supplementation is warranted before extrapolating the results obtained from a limited number of studies to the other people with different age, gender, ethnicity and risk profile across the world. J. Cell. Biochem. 116: 1513–1521, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Thiamine prescribing practices within university‐affiliated hospitals: A multicenter retrospective review
Authors: Day Gregory S. , Ladak Safiya , Curley Kevin , Farb Norman A. S. , Masiowski Paul , Pringsheim Tamara , Ritchie Michael , Cheung Alexandra , Jansen Sandy , Methot Linda , Neville Heather L. , Bates Duane , Lowe Donna , Fernandes Natasha , Ferland Alexandre , Martin del Campo C
Published: February 2015

BACKGROUND

Patients with suspected thiamine deficiency should receive treatment with parenteral thiamine to achieve the high serum thiamine levels necessary to reverse the effects of deficiency and to circumvent problems with absorption common in the medically ill.

OBJECTIVE

To quantify rates of parenteral administration of thiamine across university‐affiliated hospitals and to identify factors associated with higher rates of parenteral prescribing.

DESIGN

Multicenter, retrospective observational study of thiamine prescriptions.

METHODS

Prescriptions for thiamine were captured from computerized pharmacy information systems across participating centers, providing information concerning dose, route, frequency, and duration of thiamine prescribed from January 2010 to December 2011.

SETTING

Fourteen university‐affiliated tertiary care hospitals geographically distributed across Canada, including 48,806 prescriptions for thiamine provided to 32,213 hospitalized patients.

RESULTS

Parenteral thiamine accounted for a statistically significant majority of thiamine prescriptions (57.6%, P < 0.001); however, oral thiamine constituted a significant majority of the total doses prescribed (68.4%, z = 168.9; P < 0.001). Protocols prioritizing parenteral administration were associated with higher rates of parenteral prescribing (61.3% with protocol, 45.8% without protocol; P < 0.001). Patients admitted under psychiatry services were significantly more likely to be prescribed oral thiamine (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Although parenteral thiamine accounted for a statistically significant majority of prescriptions, oral thiamine was commonly prescribed within academic hospitals. Additional strategies are needed to promote parenteral thiamine prescribing to patients with suspected thiamine deficiency. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2015;10:246–253. © 2015 Society of Hospital Medicine
Development of novel sophorolipids with improved cytotoxic activity toward MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cells
Authors: Ribeiro Isabel A. C. , Faustino Célia M. C. , Guerreiro Patrícia S. , Frade Raquel F. M. , Bronze M. Rosário , Castro Matilde F. , Ribeiro Maria H. L
Published: February 2015

Sophorolipids (SLs) are glycolipid biosurfactants, produced as a mixture of several compounds by some nonpathogenic yeast. In the current study, separation of individual SLs from mixtures with further evaluation of their surface properties and biologic activity on MDA‐MB‐321 breast cancer cell line were investigated. SLs were biosynthesized by Starmerella bombicola in a culture media supplemented with borage oil. A reverse‐phase flash chromatography method with an automated system coupled with a prepacked cartridge was used to separate and purify the main SLs. Compositional analysis of SLs was performed by high‐performance liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry and tandem mass spectrometry. The following diacetylated lactonic SLs were isolated and purified: C18:0, C18:1, C18:2, and C18:3. The critical micelle concentration (CMC) and surface tension at CMC (γCMC) of the purified SLs showed an increase with the number of double bonds. High cytotoxic effect against MDA‐MB‐231 cells was observed with C18:0 and C18:1 lactonic SLs. The cytotoxic effects of C18:3 lactonic SL on cancerous cells were for the first time studied. This cytotoxic effect was considerably higher than the promoted by acidic SLs; however, it induced a lower effect than the previously mentioned SLs, C18:0 and C18:1. To our knowledge, for the first time, C18:1 lactonic SL, in selected concentrations, proved to be able to inhibit MDA‐MB‐231 cell migration without compromising cell viability and to increase intracellular reactive oxygen species. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Intrinsic thermodynamics of trifluoromethanesulfonamide and ethoxzolamide binding to human carbonic anhydrase VII
Authors: Pilipuitytė Vilma , Matulis Daumantas
Published: February 2015

Human carbonic anhydrase (CA) isozyme VII is a cytosolic protein that is highly expressed in the cortex, hippocampus, and thalamus regions within mammalian brain, and expression disorders can cause epilepsy and several cases of malignant brain tumors. Therefore, CA VII is a potential antiepileptic and anticancer drug target. There are numerous sulfonamides that target CAs nonspecifically. It is important to understand the thermodynamics of inhibitor binding and the structural features of the protein–inhibitor complex in order to design specific inhibitors against CA VII. Isothermal titration calorimetry and fluorescent thermal shift assay were used to characterize the intrinsic thermodynamic parameters of trifluoromethanesulfonamide and ethoxzolamide binding to CA VII. Binding experiments were carried out at various pH in different buffers in order to dissect linked protonation of the water molecule bound to the CA VII active site, deprotonation of the sulfonamide group of the inhibitor, and protonation–deprotonation of buffer. Dissection of all those contributions yielded the intrinsic thermodynamic parameters of binding, such as Gibbs free energy, binding enthalpy, entropy, and protein pKa value. Thermal shift assay was also used to determine CA VII stability at various pH. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Acceleration of MRI of the vocal tract provides additional insight into articulator modifications
Authors: Burdumy Michael , Traser Louisa , Richter Bernhard , Echternach Matthias , Korvink Jan G. , Hennig Jürgen , Zaitsev Maxim
Published: February 2015

Purpose

To accelerate dynamic imaging of the vocal tract during articulation.

Materials and Methods

Five subjects were imaged by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) while repeating the word "Partikel" at 90 beats per minute, using both a radio‐frequency‐spoiled radial gradient echo sequence with golden angle projection rotation and a previously applied real‐time Cartesian sequence. The acquired data were reconstructed using a CG‐SENSE method and Cartesian reconstruction. The images from both methods were compared by measuring distances between anatomical landmarks that are important for resonance behavior of the vocal tract. Only commonly available hardware and software were used.

Results

With the presented radial method a spatial resolution of 1.8 mm at 25 frames per second could be achieved. Overall, the morphometric measurements of the vocal tract showed less deviation for the radial sequence both across repetitions and for all subjects. Fast modifications, such as complete lip closing, could be analyzed with greater fidelity using the high temporal resolution of the radial sequence.

Conclusion

The results indicate that higher temporal resolution is a necessity to catch fast morphometric changes in the vocal tract. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;42:925–935.
Personal clothing as a potential vector of respiratory virus transmission in childcare settings
Authors: Gralton Jan , McLaws Mary‐Louise , Rawlinson William D.
Published: February 2015

Previous investigations of fomite transmission have focused on the presence of pathogens on inanimate objects in clinical settings. There has been limited investigation of fomite transmission in non‐clinical pediatric settings where there is a high prevalence of respiratory virus infections. Over a 5 week period, this study investigated whether the personal clothing of teachers working in childcare centers was contaminated with viral RNA, and potentially could mediate virus transmission. Matched morning and evening clothing and nasal samples were collected for 313 teacher work days (TWDs). Human rhinoviruses (hRV) RNA were detected from samples using real‐time PCR. Human rhinovirus RNA was detected in clothing samples on 16 TWDs and in nasal samples on 32 TWDs. There were no TWDs when teachers provided both positive nasal and clothing samples and only three TWDs when hRV persisted on clothing for the entire day. The detection of hRV RNA was significantly predicted by self‐recognition of symptomatic illness by the teacher 2 days prior to detection. These findings suggest that teachers’ personal clothing in childcare settings is unlikely to facilitate the transmission of hRV. J. Med. Virol. 87:925–930, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Molecular epidemiology and genotype distribution of noroviruses in children in Thailand from 2004 to 2010: A multi‐site study
Authors: Bodhidatta Ladaporn , Abente Eugenio , Neesanant Pimmnapar , Nakjarung Kaewkanya , Sirichote Pantip , Bunyarakyothin Gaysorn , Vithayasai Niyada , Mason Carl J.
Published: February 2015

This study identified norovirus in children presenting with acute gastroenteritis and determined the capsid genotypes of the circulating norovirus strains in multiple regions in Thailand during October 2004 to December 2006 and March 2008 to August 2010. A total of 7,420 stool samples were collected from both cases (3621) and controls (3799). The stool samples were screened by two real‐time RT‐PCR assays to detect genogroup I and genogroup II noroviruses. Norovirus‐positive samples were identified in 516 cases (14.3%) and 181 controls (4.8%) with more than half of norovirus positive samples from 7–24 months old children. Positive samples were sequenced and genotyped for the capsid gene. GII.4 was the genotype observed most frequently (56.4%) followed by GII.3 (28.2%). Five peaks of infection were observed, with predominant capsid genotypes that alternated during the surveillance periods between GII.4 and GII.3. Analyses of positive samples showed variation in genotype from each region as well as from different study periods. This emphasizes the importance of multi‐site studies to investigate norovirus epidemiology. Additionally, the observed regional and temporal variations suggest that a systematic nation‐wide surveillance effort in Thailand is needed to track the continually changing norovirus epidemiology.J. Med. Virol. 87:664–674, 2015.© 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Crimean‐Congo hemorrhagic fever: CXCL10 correlates with the viral load
Authors: Papa Anna , Yagci Caglayık Dilek , Christova Iva , Tsergouli Katerina , Korukluoglu Gulay , Uyar Yavuz
Published: February 2015

Crimean‐Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a human disease with high fatality rate. Although its pathogenesis is not elucidated yet, it is considered that cytokines play a significant role in the progression and outcome of the disease. Serum CXCL10 levels were estimated in 35 patients with acute CCHF and were correlated with the viral load, and various demographic and clinical parameters. The mean CXCL10 concentration in the patients' group was higher compared to the respective value in the control group (4421.74 pg/ml vs. 28.47 pg/ml, P < 0.05). A strong positive correlation between CXCL10 and viral load was seen (rs = 0.57, P < 0.001), while the outcome of the disease was related with the viral load (rs = 0.47, P = 0.004) and the presence of hemorrhagic manifestations (P < 0.001). The study provides an insight into the strong correlation between CXCL10 and viral load in acute CCHF cases suggesting that it plays an important role in CCHF pathogenesis. J. Med. Virol. 87:899–903, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Polygold‐FISH for signal amplification of metallo‐labeled microbial cells
Authors: Almstrand Robert , Drennan Dina M. , Sharp Jonathan O.
Published: February 2015

An improved in situ hybridization approach (Polygold‐FISH) using biotinylated probes targeting multiple locations of the 16 S ribosomal subunit, followed by fluoronanogold‐streptavidin labeling and autometallographic enhancement of nanogold particles was developed as a means of signal amplification of metallo‐labeled cells, without the need for Catalyzed Reporter Deposition (CARD). Bacterial cells were readily detected based on their gold‐particle signal using scanning‐electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy when contrasted with controls or cells hybridized with a single probe. Polygold‐FISH presents an alternative to CARD‐FISH, circumventing the need for aggressive oxidants, which is useful when products of microbial respiration such as those relevant at the microbe‐mineral interface could be altered during processing for visualization.
An Exploratory Examination of Serious Surfers: Implications for the Surf Tourism Industry
Authors: Sotomayor Sandra , Barbieri Carla
Published: February 2015

Surf tourism is a multibillion dollar industry expected to continue expanding. Despite such economic significance, the surf tourism literature has gaps related to surf tourism segments. In response, this study applied the serious leisure framework to profile serious surfers and contrast their sociodemographic composition and travel behaviors. Although more serious surfers are more avid travelers in the quest for the perfect wave as compared with less serious surfers, preference for local attractions and conveniences did not vary between groups. In addition to contributing the scholarship of serious leisure and surf tourism, this study provides insights for the surf tourism industry. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sleep quality change after upper airway surgery in obstructive sleep apnea: Electrocardiogram‐based cardiopulmonary coupling analysis
Authors: Choi Ji Ho , Thomas Robert J. , Suh Soo Yeon , Park Il Ho , Kim Tae Hoon , Lee Sang Hag , Lee Heung Man , Yun Chang‐Ho , Lee Seung Hoon
Published: February 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

To test the effect of upper airway surgery on sleep quality in adults with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and the potential usefulness of electrocardiogram (ECG)‐based cardiopulmonary coupling (CPC) analysis as metrics of sleep quality.

Study Design

Retrospective outcome research.

Methods

A total of 62 consecutive adult patients with OSA, consisting of 36 with successful and 26 with unsuccessful outcomes, were included in the study. Mean age was 37.7 ± 8.9 years, and body mass index (BMI, kg/m2) was 26.9 ± 2.3. We compared clinical characteristics (age, BMI, and Epworth Sleepiness Scale [ESS]), sleep (sleep efficiency, stage non–rapid eye movement [N]1, N2, N3, rapid eye movement, and arousal index [ArI]), respiratory (apnea index [AI], apnea‐hypopnea index [AHI], and minimum arterial oxygen saturation [SaO2]), and CPC (high‐frequency coupling [HFC], low frequency coupling [LFC], very–low‐frequency coupling, and elevated low‐frequency coupling [e‐LFC]) parameters between the success and nonsuccess groups before and after surgery. Surgical success was defined when the postoperative AHI was both <20 per hour and 50% of the preoperative value.

Results

Sleep quality measured by CPC analysis improved significantly (HFC, P = .001; LFC, P = .002; e‐LFC, P = .003), along with parallel reduction in ESS, respiratory parameters (AHI, AI, minimum SaO2), and sleep fragmentation (ArI) in the group with surgical success after upper airway surgery.

Conclusions

Successful upper airway surgery can improve objective sleep quality in adult patients with OSA. CPC metrics of sleep quality are potentially useful to monitor therapeutic responses during long‐term postoperative follow‐up, as the ECG‐based analysis is available as a standalone option outside laboratory polysomnography.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 125:1737–1742, 2015
Circadian variation of gentamicin toxicity in rats
Authors: McKinney William , Yonovitz Al , Smolensky Michael H.
Published: February 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

Two undesired effects of the aminoglycoside antibiotic gentamicin are ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity. This study investigated if these adverse effects vary according to the circadian time of its administration.

Study Design

This study entails laboratory animal research.

Methods

Four groups of Sprague‐Dawley rats were synchronized to a 12:12 light/dark schedule. Each group receiving the antibiotic (100 mg/kg gentamicin sulfate) at a different circadian time. Auditory brainstem response was obtained at pretreatment and at 2, 4, and 6 weeks.

Results

At all measured frequencies, hearing losses were significantly (P < .001) greater when gentamicin was administered during the diurnal rest span than the nighttime activity span. At 4 weeks, the average total hearing loss, quantified by elevation of threshold values over the tested auditory frequencies, was 31.3 and 25.6 dB for the 2 hours after lights on (HALO) and 8 HALO groups, respectively. The loss progressed at 6 weeks to 42.5 (2 HALO) and 37.5 (8 HALO) dB. At 6 weeks, the 14 and 20 HALO groups had losses of 17.5 and 26.3 dB, respectively. Trough serum gentamicin concentration significantly (P < .01) increased during treatment, being the highest at 4 weeks. Urine urea nitrogen 24‐hour levels of the 2 and 8 HALO groups differed significantly (P < .01) from the 14 and 20 HALO groups.

Conclusions

Ototoxicity was greater when gentamicin was administered during their diurnal rest than during nocturnal activity. A dosing paradigm may be used to deliver a lower therapeutic antimicrobial concentration during the nighttime rest period when the studied adverse effects are of highest risk.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 125:E252–E256, 2015
Development of the ex vivo laryngeal model of phonation
Authors: Howard N. Scott , Mendelsohn Abie H. , Berke Gerald S.
Published: February 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

The direct study of human phonation is limited by the invasive and painful nature of human laryngeal neuromuscular manipulation. As a platform for the study of human phonation, indirect models have been utilized for decades such as animal, cadaveric, and computational. We sought to develop a research method allowing direct scientific control of virtually living larynges to expand our ability to understand human phonation.

Study Design

Canine and porcine models.

Methods

Nineteen canine larynges were surgically removed and reperfused with progressively adapting methodologies to create ex vivo phonation.

Results

Full neuromuscular stimulation and phonation were ultimately achieved in the ex vivo larynx. As compared with alternative perfusate solutions, heparinized whole blood was found to result in the most robust neuromuscular response. Modification of the reperfusion technique from a continuous flow to a pulsatile pump system resulted in dramatic increases in neuromuscular response and longevity of the organ. The experimental findings were repeated to demonstrate reliability of the ex vivo model.

Conclusions

The ex vivo larynx model is demonstrated to be a repeatable platform for phonatory research. The process of development has been comprehensively described in the present report. Although the described experimental model was designed for phonatory research, this model can be readily adapted for investigations of organ transplant preservation techniques, effects of organ ischemia, and neuromuscular reinnervation capabilities.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 125:1414–1419, 2015