bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INHIBITION OF INSECT GLUTATHIONE S‐TRANSFERASE (GST) BY CONIFER EXTRACTS
Authors: Wang Zhiling , Zhao Zhong , Abou‐Zaid Mamdouh M. , Arnason John T. , Liu Rui , Walshe‐Roussel Brendan , Waye Andrew , Liu Suqi , Saleem Ammar , Cáceres Luis A. , Wei Qin , Scott Ian M.
Published: September 2014

Insecticide synergists biochemically inhibit insect metabolic enzyme activity and are used both to increase the effectiveness of insecticides and as a diagnostic tool for resistance mechanisms. Considerable attention has been focused on identifying new synergists from phytochemicals with recognized biological activities, specifically enzyme inhibition. Jack pine (Pinus banksiana Lamb.), black spruce (Picea mariana (Mill.) BSP.), balsam fir (Abies balsamea (L.) Mill.), and tamarack larch (Larix laricina (Du Roi) Koch) have been used by native Canadians as traditional medicine, specifically for the anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties based on enzyme inhibitory activity. To identify the potential allelochemicals with synergistic activity, ethanol crude extracts and methanol/water fractions were separated by Sephadex LH‐20 chromatographic column and tested for in vitro glutathione S‐transferase (GST) inhibition activity using insecticide‐resistant Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say) midgut and fat‐body homogenate. The fractions showing similar activity were combined and analyzed by ultra pressure liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry. A lignan, (+)‐lariciresinol 9′‐p‐coumarate, was identified from P. mariana cone extracts, and L. laricina and A. balsamea bark extracts. A flavonoid, taxifolin, was identified from P. mariana and P. banksiana cone extracts and L. laricina bark extracts. Both compounds inhibit GST activity with taxifolin showing greater activity compared to (+)‐lariciresinol 9′‐p‐coumarate and the standard GST inhibitor, diethyl maleate. The results suggested that these compounds can be considered as potential new insecticide synergists.
Molecular Pop‐up Toy: A Molecular Machine Based on Folding/Unfolding Motion of Alkyl Chains Bound to a Host
Authors: Ko Young Ho , Hwang Ilha , Kim Hyunuk , Kim Youngkook , Kim Kimoon
Published: September 2014

We have designed and synthesized a new type of molecular machine based on the folding/unfolding motion of an alkyl chain bound to a host, triggered by a redox stimulus. A guest molecule containing a viologen unit with a long alkyl chain 12+ and its one‐electron reduced species 1 form very stable 1:1 host–guest complexes 22+ and 2, respectively, with cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8]), where the long alkyl chain of the guests is in a folded conformation inside the host cavity. Upon addition of 2,6‐dihydroxynaphthalene as an electron donor, the binary complex 22+ turns into a ternary complex 32+ through host‐stabilized charge‐transfer complex formation with the alkyl chain extended into the solution outside the host cavity. The ternary complex behaves like a molecular machine reminiscent of a pop‐up toy, as it shows reversible folding/unfolding motion of the alkyl chain of the guest in response to a redox stimulus. For example, one‐electron reduction of 32+ results in the rapid generation of the 2 complex, accompanied by a dramatic conformational change of the alkyl chain from an extended to a folded conformation, and the process can be reversed by oxidation.
Expanded and fixed bed ion exchange chromatography for the recovery of C‐phycocyanin in a single step by using lysed cells
Authors: Moraes Caroline Costa , Sala Luisa , Ores Joana da Costa , Braga Anna Rafaela Cavalcante , Costa Jorge Alberto Vieira , Kalil Susana Juliano
Published: September 2014

C‐phycocyanin, a natural blue dye, stands out today because it has antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐tumor properties, and it can be extracted from cyanobacteria, such as the genus Spirulina. A process that has received attention is the adsorption of proteins in the presence of biomass by fluidized bed, particularly an expanded bed. Therefore, this study aimed at purifying C‐phycocyanin by ion exchange chromatography in expanded bed in the presence of biomass with two different resins (Streamline Q XL and Streamline DEAE) and comparing the purification process of C‐phycocyanin by applying the fixed bed ion exchange chromatography. The expanded bed purification carried out with the support of Streamline Q XL was considered more promising than with Streamline DEAE since the former had higher C‐phycocyanin recovery than the latter. The fraction C‐phycocyanin in the expanded bed mode with Streamline Q XL had average purity of 1.6, concentration of 2.4 mg mL−1, and recovery process of 79 %. Moreover, by comparison with the fixed bed, the recovery of C‐phycocyanin was higher in the expanded mode, even though both purity levels were similar. It has been shown that such crude feedstocks can be applied to the bed without prior clarification steps. As a result, the single‐step recovery process (clarification, capture, and purification) can be established, thus eliminating the centrifugation step, saving energy, and reducing the cost of the process.
Novel role of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator in maintaining adult mouse olfactory neuronal homeostasis
Authors: Pfister Sandra , Weber Tamara , Härtig Wolfgang , Schwerdel Cornelia , Elsaesser Rebecca , Knuesel Irene , Fritschy Jean‐Marc
Published: September 2014

The olfactory epithelium (OE) of mice deficient in cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) exhibits ion transport deficiencies reported in human CF airways, as well as progressive neuronal loss, suggesting defects in olfactory neuron homeostasis. Microvillar cells, a specialized OE cell‐subtype, have been implicated in maintaining tissue homeostasis. These cells are endowed with a PLCβ2/IP3R3/TRPC6 signal transduction pathway modulating release of neuropeptide Y (NPY), which stimulates OE stem cell activity. It is unknown, however, whether microvillar cells also mediate the deficits observed in CFTR‐null mice. Here we show that Cftr mRNA in mouse OE is exclusively localized in microvillar cells and CFTR immunofluorescence is coassociated with the scaffolding protein NHERF‐1 and PLCβ2 in microvilli. In CFTR‐null mice, PLCβ2 was undetectable, NHERF‐1 mislocalized, and IP3R3 more intensely stained, along with increased levels of NPY, suggesting profound alteration of the PLCβ2/IP3R3 signaling pathway. In addition, basal olfactory neuron homeostasis was altered, shown by increased progenitor cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis and by reduced regenerative capacity following methimazole‐induced neurodegeneration. The importance of CFTR in microvillar cells was further underscored by decreased thickness of the OE mucus layer and increased numbers of immune cells within this tissue in CFTR‐KO mice. Finally, we observed enhanced immune responses to an acute viral‐like infection, as well as hyper‐responsiveness to chemical and physical stimuli applied intranasally. Taken together, these data strengthen the notion that microvillar cells in the OE play a key role in maintaining tissue homeostasis and identify several mechanisms underlying this regulation through the multiple functions of CFTR. J. Comp. Neurol. 523:406–430, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An auditing mechanism for the security of service in grid
Authors: Liu Zhusong , Li Zhike , Sun Sheng , Li Yunfa
Published: September 2014

With the growth of system scale, ensuring the security of service in grid has become a challenge. To tackle this problem, an auditing mechanism for the security of service in grid is proposed in this paper. In the auditing mechanism, we first define and analyze some atomic services for grid application based on the service processes of tasks. Then, we propose several detecting methods for these automatic services. Finally, we propose an auditing model for the security of service and conduct a series of experiments to justify the availability and feasibility of the proposed auditing mechanism. The experimental results demonstrate that our approach is effective and efficient. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Regulatory skill as a resilience factor for adults with a history of foster care: A pilot study
Authors: Johnson Angela J. , Tottenham Nim
Published: September 2014

Individuals with a history of foster care (FC) are at elevated risk for emotion regulation‐related mental illness. The purpose of the current study was to characterize regulatory function in a group of adults with a history of FC (N = 26) relative to those without a history of FC (N = 27) and how regulatory function moderates adverse caregiving‐related outcomes (daily cortisol production and trait anxiety). Self‐report items (anxiety, emotion regulation strategies, inhibitory control, caregiving history) were collected along with more objective measures (computerized task and salivary cortisol). Inhibitory control was assessed via self‐report and a computerized task (emotional face go/nogo). Results showed that for adults with a history of FC, higher levels of inhibitory control were associated with higher accuracy on the emotional face go/nogo task and greater reported use of the emotion regulation strategy cognitive reappraisal. Greater use of cognitive reappraisal in turn was associated with healthier stress‐related outcomes (decreased trait anxiety and steeper sloped cortisol production throughout the day). Dose‐response associations were observed between self‐reported regulatory skills and FC experiences (i.e., number of placements and age when exited foster care). These findings suggest that adverse caregiving can have long‐term influences on mental health that extend into adulthood; however, individual differences in regulatory skills moderate these outcomes and may be an important target for intervention following caregiving adversity. ©2014 The Authors. Developmental Psychobiology published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 57: 1–16, 2015.
Identification and quantification of canolol and related sinapate precursors in Indian mustard oils and Canadian mustard products
Authors: Thiyam‐Holländer Usha , Aladedunye Felix , Logan Amy , Yang Haifeng , Diehl Bernd W. K.
Published: September 2014

Canadian condiment yellow mustard seeds (also called white), oriental and brown mustard seeds and flour extracts and commercially produced Indian mustard oils were examined for bioactive phenolics primarily to identify the antioxidant properties. Phenolic compounds, namely sinapic acid, sinapoyl glucose and canolol, were quantified using high‐performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) coupled with a diode array detector (DAD). Canolol was detected and confirmed in trace amounts for the first time in commercial oils that had not been preheated specific for canolol production, most likely due to heat applied during processing. Sinapic acid, sinapine and canolol derived from unheated/unroasted mustard seeds and canola extracts were confirmed utilizing HPLC‐DAD, ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem‐mass spectrometry (UPLC‐tandem‐MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy.

Practical applications: Oilseeds canola and mustard contain significant amounts of phenolic compounds, principally sinapic acid derivatives. The level and functionality of these phenolic is highly influenced by the processing conditions. In the current study, the phenolic composition of some commercial mustard seed, oil, meal and flour samples were profiled with special focus on the occurrence of canolol, the decarboxylation product of sinapic acid. This study suggests that optimizing the crushing, pressing, or extraction steps during processing is crucial to enrich mustard and canola products with benefits associated with these bioactives, especially canolol.

The existence of sinapic acid derivatives was confirmed in the 70% aqueous methanolic extracts of commercial mustard products such as deheated mustard flour and oil. Extracts of mustard, in addition to canola, contain significant amounts of phenolics, mainly sinapine. Traditional ghani pressing, cold pressing and/or screw expeller pressing hold potential for enriching mustard and sinapate‐rich oil with benefits associated with canolol.
Dispersions of Hollow and Bamboo‐Like Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes in Polyethyleneimine: Critical Analysis of the Preparation Conditions and Applications for Electrochemical Sensing
Authors: Eguílaz Marcos , Ferreyra Nancy F. , Rivas Gustavo A.
Published: September 2014

This work is focused on the critical analysis of the influence of the experimental conditions on the efficient dispersion of hollow‐type (hMWCNT) and bamboo‐like (bMWCNT) multiwall carbon nanotubes with polyethyleneimine (PEI). Spectroscopic and electrochemical studies demonstrated that the adequate combination of optimized ultracavitation and centrifugation is essential to obtain successful dispersions. The selected conditions were 1.0 mg mL−1 hMWCNT in 3.0 mg mL−1 PEI sonicated with a sonicator probe operating at 50 % of amplitude for 300 s and centrifuged at 9000 rpm for 15 min. Bamboo‐like multiwall carbon nanotubes were faster exfoliated and glassy carbon electrodes (GCE) modified with the resulting dispersion allowed the amperometric detection of hydrogen peroxide at lower potentials (0.100 V) with a detection limit of 5.5 µM.
Cu(II)‐Based MOF Immobilized on Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes: Synthesis and Application for Nonenzymatic Detection of Hydrogen Peroxide with High Sensitivity
Authors: Zhou Echeng , Zhang Yanwu , Li Yijun , He Xiwen
Published: September 2014

Cu(II)‐based MOF (Cu‐bipy‐BTC, bipy=2,2′‐bipyridine, BTC=1,3,5‐tricarboxylate) was synthesized and immobilized on multiwalled carbon nanotubes. The prepared composite was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray photoelectron spectra (XPS) and IR spectra. Then the material was modified onto the surface of a glassy carbon electrode, and showed a couple of well‐defined redox peaks in a phosphate buffer solution (pH 6.0), ascribed to the redox process of CuII/I in the Cu‐bipy‐BTC. The modified electrode was then applied to fabricate a non‐enzymatic hydrogen peroxide biosensor. The sensor showed good electrocatalytic activity toward the reduction of hydrogen peroxide with a wide linear range (3–70 µmol L−1 and 70–30000 µmol L−1) and a detection limit of 0.46 µmol L−1, as well as good stability and repeatability. In addition, the sensor has been successfully applied to determine hydrogen peroxide in water samples with good accuracy. Thus, the Cu‐bipy‐BTC/MWCNTs composite has great potential for applications in electrochemical sensors.
Electroless Deposition of Silver Nanoparticles on Graphene Oxide Surface and Its Applications for the Detection of Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Zhu Jun , Kim KeunSoo , Liu Zhenxian , Feng Huan , Hou Shifeng
Published: September 2014

A new process to decorate graphene oxide (GO) with silver nanoparticles was developed through electroless deposition technique, which was performed by treating GO with Sn2+ first and then with Ag+. Silver nanoparticles‐GO (AgNPs‐GO) nanocomposites were prepared by this technique. The process was monitored using UV‐vis spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The electrochemical behaviour of AgNPs‐GO modified glassy carbon electrode was investigated by cyclic voltammetry. The potential application of this technique for hydrogen peroxide detection was tested with a range from 10 µM to 20 mM with a detection limit of 0.5 µM.
Effect of gas cell pressure in FTIR analysis of fire effluents
Authors: Guillaume Eric , Saragoza Laurent , Wakatsuki Kaoru , Blomqvist Per
Published: September 2014

The analysis of fire effluents using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) is increasing in the field of fire science. This technique is very powerful and may be very selective and precise if the FTIR instrument is properly calibrated. However, results are sensitive to instrumental parameters, including especially pressure effects on the contents in the measurement cell. This communication presents experimental and numerical evaluation of pressure effects in FTIR analysis, and an evaluation of the feasibility and limitation of pressure corrections. The work performed concerns experimental measurements on pressure influence with four different gases, at different levels of concentration, and for one of the gases with different equipment from two laboratories. Some of these results are compared with theoretical models obtained from HITRAN database. Finally, this communication proposes limitations to the range of validity of correction if the actual pressure and the pressure for calibration differ, and suggests a tolerance of ±10 Torr on pressure variation for application of the method. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Patterns of changing cancer risks with time since diagnosis of a sibling
Authors: Lee Myeongjee , Czene Kamila , Rebora Paola , Reilly Marie
Published: September 2014

Family history is a well‐known risk factor for many cancers. However, it is important to know if/how the familial risk of cancer changes over time. For each of four major cancers (colorectal, breast, prostate and melanoma), we identified siblings of cancer patients (case siblings) and siblings of matched cancer‐free controls sampled from Swedish population‐based registers. Effects of age and time since diagnosis on sibling risks were examined using Poisson regression and presented graphically as smoothed hazard ratios (HRs). Screening effects were investigated by comparing hazards before/after the introduction of mammography for breast cancer and prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) testing for prostate cancer. Case siblings had higher cancer incidence than control siblings for all cancers at all ages, with overall incidence rate ratios (IRRs) of 2.41 (95% confidence interval 2.14–2.71) for colorectal cancer, 2.37 (2.24–2.52) for breast cancer, 3.69 (3.46–3.93) for prostate cancer and 3.20 (2.72–3.76) for melanoma. Risks were highest in siblings who were young when the first cancer was diagnosed in the family, with siblings aged 30–40 having IRR 9.05 (3.03–27.00) for colorectal cancer and 4.30 (2.87–6.45) for breast cancer. Smoothed HRs remained fairly constant for up to 20 years except for prostate cancer, where the HR decreased steeply during the first few years. After introduction of PSA testing, men had higher incidence of prostate cancer shortly after diagnosis in a brother, but no such screening effect was found for breast cancer. Our findings can help inform the screening and counseling of family members of cancer patients.
The Environmental Kuznets Curve, Cointegration and Nonlinearity
Authors: Wagner Martin
Published: September 2014

This paper clarifies some conceptual shortcomings of the empirical environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) literature that arise because of the hitherto inadequate application of unit root and cointegration techniques. The literature to date has ignored the fact, and a fortiori the consequences, that powers of integrated processes are themselves not integrated processes. The paper explains why standard methods should not be applied and discusses some recently proposed viable estimation and testing approaches for cointegrating polynomial regressions. The application to CO2 and SO2 emissions data shows that using appropriate methods leads to strongly reduced evidence for a cointegrating EKC compared to typical but conceptually not sound findings. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Immunomodulation due to plasma or plasma–platelet apheresis donation: Events occurring during donation procedures
Authors: Ghio Massimo , Contini Paola , Ansaldi Filippo , Ubezio Gianluca , Setti Maurizio , Risso Marco , Tripodi Gino
Published: September 2014

Background:

It has been recently shown that during therapeutic apheresis procedure, a large amount of soluble HLA class I molecules settles onto plastic apheresis circuits, inducing sustained TGFβ1 pre/post‐transcriptional modulation in activated patients' leukocytes. Reportedly, donors' leukocytes may be exposed to similar immunosuppressing activities during donor apheresis procedures. On this basis, it could be hypothesized that such events can cause immune modulation. It is uncertain which blood cell population is most impacted by these events. This study is focused on the effects on the T lymphocytes.

Study design and methods:

To assess if such events occur, lymphocytes from 20 apheresis donors collected before and after three closely timed plasma and platelet donation procedures were analyzed for sHLA‐I mediated immunomodulation.

Results:

The results confirmed that sHLA‐I molecules bind to the apheresis circuit surfaces. Circuits can also transiently activate donors' CD8+ T lymphocytes, to which sHLA‐I molecules can bind, thus modulating short‐lasting immune effects, such as transcriptional and post‐transcriptional TGFβ1 modulation and soluble Fas ligand release. However, no significant change in relative proportions, absolute number and cell viability of lymphocyte subpopulations was found and no ex vivo immune effect was detectable longer than 14 days after procedure in any cell type in all donors.

Conclusion:

Short‐lived sHLA‐I mediated immunomodulation was demonstrable in lymphocytes from every donor as a consequence of apheresis procedures, but no enrolled subject experienced any adverse reaction or showed any sign of immunosuppression during 24 months of follow‐up after the donations. J. Clin. Apheresis 30:204–211, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Molecular diagnosis of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Haga Hiroaki , Patel Tushar
Published: September 2014

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinomas (iCCA) are primary intrahepatic malignancies originating from biliary epithelia. While both hepatocellular cancer and iCCA can present as mass lesions within the liver, these cancers are distinct in their morphology, etiology, pathology, natural history and response to therapy. There is a need for accurate and sensitive molecular markers for the diagnosis of iCCA. Recent advances in elucidating molecular and genetic characteristics of iCCA offer the potential of molecular‐based diagnosis of iCCA. Specific genetic mutations of IDH1/2, BAP1, p53, and KRAS, FGFR gene fusions and alterations in microRNA have all been described in iCCA. Although there are no accurate serum or biliary biomarkers currently available for diagnosis of iCCA, several potential candidates have been identified. Knowledge of specific genetic or molecular abnormalities offers potential for individualized approaches for the treatment of patients with iCCA in the future.
L‐type calcium channel blocker ameliorates diabetic encephalopathy by modulating dysregulated calcium homeostasis
Authors: Singhal Kirti , Sandhir Rajat
Published: September 2014

Diabetic encephalopathy is a complication of diabetes characterized by impaired cognitive functions. The objective of the present study was to examine the beneficial effect of the calcium channel blocker, nimodipine, on diabetes‐induced cognitive deficits and altered calcium homeostasis in the cerebral cortex. Diabetes was induced in mice by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (40 mg/kg body wt) for 5 days. Nimodipine (10 mg/kg body weight) was administered intraperitoneally to the animals every 48 hr for 8 weeks. A significant impairment in spatial learning and memory was observed in diabetic animals, which was reversed by nimodipine treatment. Diabetic animals showed increased CaV1.2 mRNA and protein expression, which might be responsible for enhanced synaptosomal calcium uptake. Nimodipine treatment was found to lower CaV1.2 mRNA, protein expression, and calcium uptake. Mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake was reduced in diabetic brains, which was reversed with nimodipine treatment. Plasma membrane and sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase activity was found to be significantly decreased in diabetic animals, whereas nimodipine supplementation restored the activity of both Ca2+‐ATPases nearly to control values. Nimodipine treatment was shown to normalize intracellular free Ca2+ levels in diabetic animals. Nimodipine was shown to attenuate increased calpain activity measured in terms of hydrolysis of fluorogenic substrate and αII‐spectrin degradation. Nimodipine supplementation also reduced reactive oxygen species production and lipid peroxidation in diabetic animals. The data suggests that L‐type calcium channel blocker is beneficial in preventing cognitive deficits associated with diabetic encephalopathy through modulation of dysregulated calcium homeostasis. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Roles of Cav3.2 and TRPA1 channels targeted by hydrogen sulfide in pancreatic nociceptive processing in mice with or without acute pancreatitis
Authors: Terada Yuka , Fujimura Mayuko , Nishimura Sachiyo , Tsubota Maho , Sekiguchi Fumiko , Kawabata Atsufumi
Published: September 2014

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), formed by multiple enzymes, including cystathionine‐γ‐lyase (CSE), targets Cav3.2 T‐type Ca2+ channels (T channels) and transient receptor potential ankyrin‐1 (TRPA1), facilitating somatic pain. Pancreatitis‐related pain also appears to involve activation of T channels by H2S formed by the upregulated CSE. Therefore, this study investigates the roles of the Cav3.2 isoform and/or TRPA1 in pancreatic nociception in the absence and presence of pancreatitis. In anesthetized mice, AP18, a TRPA1 inhibitor, abolished the Fos expression in the spinal dorsal horn caused by injection of a TRPA1 agonist into the pancreatic duct. As did mibefradil, a T‐channel inhibitor, in our previous report, AP18 prevented the Fos expression following ductal NaHS, an H2S donor. In the mice with cerulein‐induced acute pancreatitis, the referred hyperalgesia was suppressed by NNC 55‐0396 (NNC), a selective T‐channel inhibitor; zinc chloride; or ascorbic acid, known to inhibit Cav3.2 selectively among three T‐channel isoforms; and knockdown of Cav3.2. In contrast, AP18 and knockdown of TRPA1 had no significant effect on the cerulein‐induced referred hyperalgesia, although they significantly potentiated the antihyperalgesic effect of NNC at a subeffective dose. TRPA1 but not Cav3.2 in the dorsal root ganglia was downregulated at a protein level in mice with cerulein‐induced pancreatitis. The data indicate that TRPA1 and Cav3.2 mediate the exogenous H2S‐induced pancreatic nociception in naïve mice and suggest that, in the mice with pancreatitis, Cav3.2 targeted by H2S primarily participates in the pancreatic pain, whereas TRPA1 is downregulated and plays a secondary role in pancreatic nociceptive signaling. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evaluating daily surface maximum temperature interpolation error by adding climate stations near border areas over China
Authors: Ma Jianyong , Dong Wenjie , Wei Zhigang , Yan Xiaodong
Published: September 2014

Based on the observed daily surface maximum temperature data from 610 stations over mainland China and 162 sites from neighbouring countries during 1981–2010, the impacts of adding climate stations near border areas on daily surface maximum temperature interpolation errors over China were studied using the thin‐plate spline method. The results showed that large improvements of interpolation accuracy in daily surface maximum temperature were achieved in border areas by adding climate information from neighbouring countries. Mean absolute error (MAE) was reduced by an average of 0.6 °C year−1 and the frequency distribution of daily bias narrowed and became more peaked at 21 boundary stations that were withheld from the model‐building process. Although pronounced variation was not found in most part of mainland China at a 10 km × 10 km grid resolution, the interpolated temperature transition between different thresholds became more stable and aligned with elevation gradients in western and northern border areas of China after incorporating data from the 162 foreign stations into the spatial interpolations. Therefore, caution should be taken when generating gridded data sets only based on observed sites in study areas to investigate regional climate change, particularly if border areas with complicated terrain are insufficiently covered by data networks.
Assessing trends in lower tropospheric heat content in the central United States using equivalent temperature
Authors: Schoof J. T. , Heern Z. A. , Therrell M. D. , Remo J. W. F.
Published: September 2014

Isobaric equivalent temperature (TE) is the temperature that an air parcel would have if all associated water vapour were condensed and the resulting latent heat used to increase the temperature of the parcel. It is therefore an ideal metric for assessing changes in (1) total near‐surface heat content associated with both temperature and moisture content and (2) the joint behaviour of temperature and humidity, which is relevant to both lower atmospheric stability and human heat stress during extreme temperature events. We present results from an analysis of 50 years (1961–2010) of daily TE and its temperature and moisture components at seven stations in the central United States. The annual means of daily TEmax and TEmin increased at all stations during the period of analysis with the largest changes occurring in TEmin, largely as a result of increasing minimum air temperature. At western locations significant increases in the annual mean TEmax were also observed, resulting from a combination of increases in Tmax and humidity. Despite small summer (JJA) trends in maximum air temperature, summer TE trends were generally larger than their annual counterparts. The timing of the observed variations and the resulting spatial pattern are consistent with observed changes in meridional moisture flux associated with the Great Plains low‐level jet. Heat waves in the region were found to be characterized by increasing TEmin, primarily resulting from increases in minimum air temperature. At western stations, heat waves were also characterized by increasing TEmax as a result of positive trends in humidity. In most cases, equivalent temperature provides a perspective on local environmental change that differs from what is provided by consideration of temperature alone.
Production of 4‐ethylphenol in alperujo by Lactobacillus pentosus
Authors: de Castro Antonio , Asencio Emilio , Ruiz‐Méndez Maria Victoria , Romero Concepción , Brenes Manuel
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND

Alperujo is the paste generated from the two‐phase extraction system of olive oil. This wet pomace must be stored for several months and, during this period, the formation of 4‐ethyphenol provokes a strong off‐odour. The aim of this work was to identify the microorganisms able to produce this volatile phenol.

RESULTS

Yeast and bacterial strains were isolated from stored alperujo and tested for their ability to metabolize p‐coumaric acid and form 4‐ethylphenol. Among them, Lactobacillus pentosus was the microorganism that both in synthetic medium and alperujo gave rise to 4‐ethylphenol formation. This microorganism did not grow in alperujo acidified to pH 2, thereby confirming that acidification as the best method to control odour emissions during alperujo storage.

CONCLUSION

Lactic acid bacteria, particularly Lactobacillus pentosus, can be responsible for the formation of the off‐odour caused by 4‐ethylphenol during the storage of alperujo. This odour can be prevented by acidifying the alperujo. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Nerve branches to the posterior cricoarytenoid muscle may complicate the laryngeal reinnervation procedure
Authors: Su Wan‐Fu , Liu Shao‐Cheng , Wang Shwun‐De , Su Wang‐Yu , Ma Kuo‐Hsing , Huang Tung‐Tsun
Published: September 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

To better understand the reason for the low success rate of posterior cricoarytenoid (PCA) muscle reinnervation, we attempted to identify the communicating branches that may exist between the nerve branch to the PCA muscle and the other laryngeal adductors in addition to the interarytenoid (IA) muscle.

Study Design

Quantitative histological assessment.

Methods

Twenty human hemilarynges from patients with laryngeal or hypopharyngeal cancer were obtained after surgery and stained with Sihler's stain, which rendered the muscle translucent while counterstaining the neuroanatomy of the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) inside the larynges.

Results

The nerve supply to the PCA muscle was separated into two main branches. One upper branch supplied the horizontal compartment, and the lower branch supplied the vertical/oblique compartment. In 14 specimens, two nerve branches to the PCA muscle arose separately from the RLN. In six specimens, one single main branch arose from the RLN and immediately ramified into two secondary branches. In all specimens except one, the nerve branch to the horizontal compartment was connected to the IA muscle. However, no communicating branches were observed between the nerve to the PCA muscle and the other laryngeal adductors. No anastomosis between nerve branches to the horizontal and vertical/oblique compartments or other variations of nerve distribution were observed.

Conclusions

The communicating branches between the nerve branches to the PCA muscle and the IA muscle may be the only branch, complicating the reinnervation procedure. More investigations are needed to identify variations in the terminal branch distribution from the RLN.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 125:419–423, 2015
Gastroesophageal and extraesophageal reflux symptoms: Similarities and differences
Authors: Drinnan Michael , Powell Jason , Nikkar‐Esfahani Ali , Heading Robert C. , Doyle Jill , Griffin S. Michael , Leslie Paula , Bradley Paula T. , James Peter , Wilson Janet A.
Published: September 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

The association between extraesophageal reflux (EER) and symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is inadequately understood. We used the Comprehensive Reflux Symptom Scale (CReSS) to evaluate EER and reflux‐symptom prevalence in gastroenterology and otolaryngology outpatients and symptom awareness among UK gastroenterologists.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional cohort survey.

Methods

Six hundred thirty‐nine participants were surveyed: 103 controls, 359 patients undergoing esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), and 177 otolaryngology clinic patients with throat symptoms. Participants completed the CReSS questionnaire. The study was undertaken in the Endoscopy Unit and the Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals, Newcastle‐upon‐Tyne, United Kingdom. Registered members of the British Gastroenterology Society were asked to rate how frequently reflux patients might complain of each CReSS item.

Results

The median CReSS total in volunteers (4) was significantly lower (P < .002) than in ear, nose, and throat (ENT) patients (26) or EGD patients with (42) or without (32) esophageal inflammation. All items were scored as ≥1 by >15% of ENT patients and 28% of EGD patients. Three major, robust CReSS factors: esophageal, pharyngeal, and upper airway emerged. Of 259 gastroenterologists, >20% scored 8 of the 34 symptoms as never being reported by reflux patients.

Conclusions

Endorsement of each EER CReSS item by 28% to 58% of patients with endoscopic evidence of GERD supports the Montreal consensus on an EER‐GERD continuum. Gastroenterologists vary considerably in their appreciation of EER symptom relevance. The advantages of CReSS include standardized, comprehensive capture of patient experience; discriminant validity of ENT and GERD patients from volunteers; and discrete esophageal, pharyngeal, and upper airway subscales.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 125:424–430, 2015
Topical rapamycin systematically suppresses the early stages of pulsed dye laser‐induced angiogenesis pathways
Authors: Gao Lin , Phan Sydney , Nadora Dawnica Mercado , Chernova Margarita , Sun Victor , Preciado Salena Marie Oaxaca , Ballew Brittany , Jia Zhenyu , Jia Wangcun , Wang Gang , Mihm Martin C. , Nelson J. Stuart , Tan Wenbin
Published: September 2014

Background

Administration of topical rapamycin (RPM) suppresses the regeneration and revascularization of photocoagulated blood vessels induced by pulsed dye laser (PDL).

Objective

To systematically elucidate the molecular pathophysiology of the inhibition of PDL‐induced angiogenesis by topical RPM in a rodent model.

Methods

The mRNA expression profiles of 86 angiogenic genes and phosphorylation levels of ribosomal protein S6 kinase (P70S6K) in rodent skin were examined with or without topical RPM administration post‐PDL exposure.

Results

The PDL‐induced systematic increases in transcriptional levels of angiogenic genes showed a peak expression at days 3–7 post‐PDL in rodent skin. Topical application of 1% RPM significantly and systematically suppressed the PDL‐induced increase in mRNA levels of the examined angiogenic genes during the first five days post‐PDL. The phosphorylation levels of P70S6K increased after PDL exposure but those increases were suppressed by the topical RPM. After topical application, RPM penetrated to an approximate depth of 768.4 μm into rodent skin.

Conclusion

Topical application of 1% RPM can significantly and systematically suppress the PDL‐induced early stage of angiogenesis via inhibition of the AKT/mTOR/P70S6K pathway in a rodent model. Lasers Surg. Med. 46:679–688, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Self‐Organization of Poly(ethylene oxide) on the Surface of Aqueous Salt Solutions
Authors: Fuchs Christian , Hussain Hazrat , Amado Elkin , Busse Karsten , Kressler Joerg
Published: September 2014

It is demonstrated that stable Langmuir films of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) can be formed up to surface pressures of 30 mN m−1 when potassium carbonate K2CO3 is added to the aqueous subphase. Generally, PEO homopolymer cannot stay on the water surface at a surface pressure ≥10 mN m−1 due to its high water solubility. To prepare stable monolayer films, PEO can be modified with hydrophobic moieties. However, by exploiting the salting out effect by adding certain salts (K2CO3 or MgSO4) into the aqueous subphase, not only very stable films but also unusual self‐organization can be achieved by the PEO homopolymer on the surface of the aqueous solution. Thus, a series of OH‐terminated PEOs is found to form a stable monolayer at K2CO3 concentrations of 2 M and above in the aqueous subphase, and the stability of the film increases with an increase in K2CO3 concentration. Hysteresis experiments are also carried out. During the phase transition induced by progressive compression, self‐organization into well‐defined domains with sizes in the micrometer range are observed, and with further compression and holding of the film for 30 min and above the microdomains transform into a crystalline morphology as visualized by Brewster angle microscopy.

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Review of Severity Rating Scales for Restless Legs Syndrome: Critique and Recommendations
Authors: Walters Arthur S. , Frauscher Birgit , Allen Richard , Benes Heike , Chaudhuri K. Ray , Garcia‐Borreguero Diego , Lee Hochang B. , Picchietti Daniel L. , Trenkwalder Claudia , Martinez‐Martin Pablo , Schrag Anette , Stebbins Glenn
Published: September 2014

Over the last decade, research in restless legs syndrome (RLS; also known as Willis‐Ekbom disease) has increased dramatically. The International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society commissioned a task force to formally evaluate the available evidence on severity rating scales in RLS. A literature search retrieved instruments specific to RLS. Each scale was evaluated by three criteria: (1) use in RLS; (2) use by research or clinical groups other than the group that developed the scale; and (3) formal validation and adequate clinimetric properties. Scales were then qualified as “recommended” when all three criteria were met, “suggested” when used for RLS but only one of the other criteria was met, and “listed” when only used in RLS. Details regarding the development, use, and psychometric properties of each instrument and the recommendations of the committee are summarized. The scale of the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group for rating the severity of RLS (International Restless Legs Scale or IRLS) and the Augmentation Severity Rating Scale fulfilled criteria for “recommended” instruments to assess severity. Future endeavors should include a validation of the Pediatric RLS Severity Scale, the only available instrument for evaluation of the severity of pediatric RLS, and a validation of a patient version of the IRLS that will not require the interface of a live interviewer.
Proteomic analysis identifies cytoskeleton‐interacting proteins as major downstream targets of altered folate status in the aorta of adult rat
Authors: Gérard Nicolas , Chanson‐Rollé Aurélie , Rock Edmond , Brachet Patrick
Published: September 2014

Scope

Mild folate deficiency and subsequently elevated plasma level of homocysteine are associated with an increased risk for vascular diseases in adults. Conversely, high intakes of folic acid (FA) may have beneficial effects on vascular function, presumably in part through homocysteine lowering. However, these effects have not yet been translated in terms of prevention or treatment of vascular pathologies. Besides, the complex biologic perturbation induced by variations of the folate supply is still not fully deciphered. We thus carried out a proteomic analysis of the aorta of adult rats after a dietary FA depletion or supplementation.

Methods and results

Nine month‐old rats were fed a FA‐depleted, FA‐supplemented or control diet for 8 weeks. Total proteins from adventitia‐free aortas were separated by 2DE and differentially expressed proteins were identified by MS. FA depletion or supplementation resulted in significantly changed abundance of 29 spots (p < 0.05), of which 20 proteins were identified. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that most of these proteins are involved in cytoskeleton‐related processes important to cell function/maintenance, assembly/organization, and movement.

Conclusion

Our proteomic study supports that expression of proteins essential to vascular structure and, presumably, function is modulated by high intake as well as deprivation of FA.
Identification of microRNAs in exosomes isolated from serum and umbilical cord blood, as well as placentomes of gestational day 90 pregnant sheep
Authors: Cleys Ellane R. , Halleran Jennifer L. , McWhorter Erin , Hergenreder Joanna , Enriquez Vanessa A. , da Silveira Juliano C. , Bruemmer Jason E. , Winger Quinton A. , Bouma Gerrit J.
Published: September 2014

Despite reports that circulating levels of maternal serum exosomes increase during pregnancy and that placenta‐specific microRNAs (miRNAs) have been identified in humans, little is known about exosomes and miRNAs during pregnancy in agriculture animals. In this study, we characterized the expression of 94 miRNAs in ovine placentomes at gestation day (GD) 90 by real‐time PCR, and then investigated the presence of these miRNAs in exosome samples isolated from maternal jugular blood in non‐pregnant ewes and at GD30 and GD90 and in umbilical blood collected at GD90. In maternal jugular exosome samples, 13 miRNAs were present in lower and 12 miRNAs were present in higher amounts at GD90 compared to non‐pregnant (GD0) or GD30. Additionally, 12 miRNAs were present in higher amounts in umbilical venous exosomes compared to umbilical arterial exosomes; only miR‐132 was lower in exosomes isolated from umbilical venous blood than from umbilical arterial blood. In placentome samples, miR‐34c and miR135a abundance was higher in cotyledon tissue than in caruncle, while miR‐183 and miR‐379 amounts were higher in caruncle than cotyledon tissue. Only miR‐379 was differentially expressed in all serum exosomes and placentome samples. Pathway analysis predicted that differentially expressed maternal serum exosomal miRNAs target Cellular Growth and Proliferation and Organ Development pathways, while umbilical serum exosomal and placentomes miRNAs were predicted to target cellular development and organismal/embryonic development. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 81: 983–993, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Morphology‐based mammalian stem cell tests reveal potential developmental toxicity of donepezil
Authors: Lau Caroline G.Y. , Marikawa Yusuke
Published: September 2014

Various compounds, including therapeutic drugs, can adversely impact the survival and development of embryos in the uterus. Identification of such development‐interfering agents is a challenging task, although multi‐angle approaches—including the use of in vitro toxicology studies involving embryonic stem cells—should alleviate some of the current difficulties. In the present study, we utilized the in vitro elongation of embryoid bodies (EBs) derived from mouse embryonal carcinoma stem cell line P19C5 as a model of early embryological events, specifically that of gastrulation and axial patterning. From our study, we identified donepezil, a medication indicated for the management of Alzheimer's disease, as a potential developmental toxicant. The extent of P19C5 EB axial elongation was diminished by donepezil in a dose‐dependent manner. Although donepezil is a known inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase, interference of elongation was not mediated through this enzyme. Quantitative reverse‐transcriptase PCR revealed that donepezil altered the expression pattern of a specific set of developmental regulator genes involved in patterning along the anterior–posterior body axis. When tested in mouse whole embryo culture, donepezil caused morphological abnormalities including impaired somitogenesis. Donepezil also diminished elongation morphogenesis of EBs generated from human embryonic stem cells. These results suggest that donepezil interferes with axial elongation morphogenesis of early embryos by altering the expression pattern of regulators of axial development. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 81: 994–1008, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An updated Lagrangian method with error estimation and adaptive remeshing for very large deformation elasticity problems
Authors: Léger S. , Fortin A. , Tibirna C. , Fortin M.
Published: September 2014

Accurate simulations of large deformation hyperelastic materials by the FEM is still a challenging problem. In a total Lagrangian formulation, even when using a very fine initial mesh, the simulation can break down due to severe mesh distortion. Error estimation and adaptive remeshing on the initial geometry are helpful and can provide more accurate solutions but are not sufficient to attain very large deformations. The updated Lagrangian formulation where the geometry is periodically updated is then preferred. However, it requires data transfer from the old mesh to the new one and this is a very delicate issue. In this paper, we present an updated Lagrangian formulation where the error is estimated and adaptive remeshing is performed in order to reach high level of deformations while controlling both the accuracy of the solution and mesh distortion. Special attention is given to data transfer methods and a very accurate cubic Lagrange projection method is introduced. A continuation method is used to automatically pilot the complete algorithm including load increase, error estimation, adaptive remeshing, and data transfer. A number of examples will be presented and analyzed. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and structure–property relationships of novel thiazole‐containing poly(amide imide)s with high refractive indices and low birefringences
Authors: Javadi Ali , Shockravi Abbas , Rafieimanesh Atefeh , Malek Ali , Ando Shinji
Published: September 2014

The primary objective of this study was to investigate the structure–property relationships in high‐performance polymers with high refractive indices and low birefringences. A series of novel poly(amide imide)s (PAIs) were synthesized from a thiazole‐containing diimide–diacid monomer and various aromatic diamines. The influence of the pendant phenyl substituents on the optical properties of these PAIs was studied by comparison with the analogous polymers containing methyl groups. The PAIs exhibited excellent solubility and good thermal stability. The optical transmittances of the PAI films at 450 nm were higher than 75%. The combination of the thiazole units, thioether linkages and pendant phenyl rings provided the PAIs with high average refractive indices of 1.7361–1.7536 and low birefringences of 0.0066–0.0097 at 632.8 nm. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry