bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A robust bioassay to assess the toxicity of metals to the Antarctic marine microalga Phaeocystis antarctica
Authors: Gissi Francesca , Adams Merrin S. , King Catherine K. , Jolley Dianne F.
Published: February 2015

Despite evidence of contamination in Antarctic coastal marine environments, no water-quality guidelines have been established for the region because of a paucity of biological effects data for local Antarctic species. Currently, there is limited information on the sensitivity of Antarctic microalgae to metal contamination, which is exacerbated by the lack of standard toxicity testing protocols for local marine species. In the present study, a routine and robust toxicity test protocol was developed using the Antarctic marine microalga Phaeocystis antarctica, and its sensitivity was investigated following 10-d exposures to dissolved copper, cadmium, lead, zinc, and nickel. In comparisons of 10% inhibition of population growth rate (IC10) values, P. antarctica was most sensitive to copper (3.3 μg/L), followed by cadmium (135 μg/L), lead (260 μg/L), and zinc (450 μg/L). Although an IC10 value for nickel could not be accurately estimated, the no-observed-effect concentration value for nickel was 1070 μg/L. Exposure to copper and cadmium caused changes in internal cell granularity and increased chlorophyll a fluorescence. Lead, zinc, and nickel had no effect on any of the cellular parameters measured. The present study provides valuable metal-ecotoxicity data for an Antarctic marine microalga, with P. antarctica representing one of the most sensitive microalgal species to dissolved copper ever reported when compared with temperate and tropical species. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015;34:1578–1587. © 2015 SETAC
Sensitivity of shovelnose sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus platorynchus) and pallid sturgeon (S. albus) early life stages to 3,3′,4,4′,5-pentachlorobiphenyl and 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-P-dioxin exposure
Authors: Buckler Justin , Candrl James S. , McKee Michael J. , Papoulias Diana M. , Tillitt Donald E. , Galat David L.
Published: February 2015

Concern exists that polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) may be contributing to the current decline of shovelnose sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus platorynchus) and the US federally endangered pallid sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus albus). Waterborne exposures with newly fertilized eggs were used to assess developmental and morphological effects of 2 of the most potent aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonists, 3,3′,4,4′,5-pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB-126) and 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), on early life stage shovelnose and pallid sturgeon. No dose-related effects of PCB-126 were observed on percent development or hatch in either species at concentrations as high as 1711 ng/g egg. Effects of TCDD on percent development were not assessed in shovelnose sturgeon. However, percent development was not affected by TCDD in pallid sturgeon, and percent hatch was unaffected by TCDD doses as high as 60 ng/g egg to 81 ng/g egg in either species. Morphological pathologies such as yolk sac edema and craniofacial deformities were typical of AhR agonist exposure and were similar in both species. Calculated PCB-126 50% lethal dose (LD50, 95% fiducial limits) values were 196 ng/g egg (188–203 ng/g) for shovelnose and 159 ng/g egg (122–199 ng/g) for pallid sturgeon. Likewise, calculated TCDD LD50 values were 13 ng/g egg (11–15 ng/g) for shovelnose and 12 ng/g egg (10–14 ng/g) for pallid sturgeon. These LD50 values are among the highest recorded in early life stage fish, suggesting that early life stage Scaphirhynchus sturgeon may be comparatively insensitive to AhR agonists. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015;34:1417–1424. © 2015 SETAC
Progress Made on NAESB Gas‐Electric Market Coordination, but Steps Remain
Authors: Booe Jonathan
Published: February 2015

As we close out one year and begin another, it is always cathartic to reflect upon, and take stock of, the accomplishments and challenges faced during the previous year.
New York's Shortsightedness Will Cost the State and the Nation
Authors: Sabino Anthony Michael
Published: February 2015

To the readers of Natural Gas & Electricity, I would like to offer two apologies. One is from this writer personally, and the second is on behalf of the State of New York. For many years, I have had the privilege of being published by NG&E, a publication that is one of the foremost of its kind in dealing with energy industry issues. I thank you all for being kind enough to read what I have written on various topics, which I thought would be of interest to you.
Low Oil Prices—Impact on Natural Gas and Associated Industries
Authors: Smead Richard G.
Published: February 2015

The suddenness and severity of oil price drops have certainly taken their toll on the collective psyche of the oil and gas industry. The natural gas industry had been living with very modest prices most of the time since abundance really took hold in 2009 or so, but the overall economics of the exploration and production industry—and the booms being experienced in South Texas, West Texas, North Dakota, and the Pennsylvania/Ohio producing area—were more than sustained by oil and wet‐gas development. Losing half the price of crude oil, with its companion impacts on the pricing of natural gas liquids, pretty much brought the boom to a screeching pause. In time‐tested oil‐and‐gas industry fashion, this has been called a crash, a collapse, a meltdown—you name the apocalyptic thesaurus entry and it has probably been used.
Glycemic control, inflammation, and cognitive function in older patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Akrivos Jimmy , Ravona‐Springer Ramit , Schmeidler James , LeRoith Derek , Heymann Anthony , Preiss Rachel , Hoffman Hadas , Koifman Keren , Silverman Jeremy M. , Schnaider Beeri Michal
Published: February 2015

Objective

Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and C‐reactive protein (CRP) have been associated with cognitive impairment independently. However, it is unclear if their combination exacerbates poor cognitive function. We assessed whether long‐term glycemic level and glycemic variability modulate the association of systemic inflammation with cognitive function, in a sample of cognitively normal older people with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of 777 randomly selected participants from ~11,000 patients in the Maccabi Healthcare Services Diabetes Registry, as part of the Israel Diabetes and Cognitive Decline study. Subjects averaged 18 (±9.4) HbA1c measures in the Maccabi Healthcare Services Registry, which were used to calculate long‐term glycemic level (HbA1c‐mean) and glycemic variability (HbA1c‐standard deviation (SD)). Linear regression models assessed the interactions of CRP, a marker of systemic inflammation, with HbA1c‐mean and HbA1c‐SD on subjects' performance in tests of Memory, Executive Functions, Attention, and Semantic Categorization.

Results

Quadratic interactions of CRP with HbA1c‐SD approached significance for executive functions and overall cognition. However, after Bonferroni adjustment, none of the interactions of CRP with HbA1c were statistically significant. In partial correlations according to HbA1c‐SD tertiles, CRP was weakly correlated in the middle tertile with decreased performance in the domains of semantic categorization (r = −0.166, p = 0.011), executive functions (r = −0.136, p = 0.038), and overall cognition (r = −0.157, p = 0.016).

Conclusions

Glycated hemoglobin does not substantially modulate the association of CRP with cognition in a sample of cognitively normal, community dwelling older people with relatively well‐managed type 2 diabetes. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Functional connectivity constrains the category‐related organization of human ventral occipitotemporal cortex
Authors: Stevens W. Dale , Tessler Michael Henry , Peng Cynthia S. , Martin Alex
Published: February 2015

One of the most robust and oft‐replicated findings in cognitive neuroscience is that several spatially distinct, functionally dissociable ventral occipitotemporal cortex (VOTC) regions respond preferentially to different categories of concrete entities. However, the determinants of this category‐related organization remain to be fully determined. One recent proposal is that privileged connectivity of these VOTC regions with other regions that store and/or process category‐relevant properties may be a major contributing factor. To test this hypothesis, we used a multicategory functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) localizer to individually define category‐related brain regions of interest (ROIs) in a large group of subjects (n = 33). We then used these ROIs in resting‐state functional connectivity MRI analyses to explore spontaneous functional connectivity among these regions. We demonstrate that during rest, distinct category‐preferential VOTC regions show differentially stronger functional connectivity with other regions that have congruent category‐preference, as defined by the functional localizer. Importantly, a “tool”‐preferential region in the left medial fusiform gyrus showed differentially stronger functional connectivity with other left lateralized cortical regions associated with perceiving and knowing about common tools—posterior middle temporal gyrus (involved in perception of nonbiological motion), lateral parietal cortex (critical for reaching, grasping, manipulating), and ventral premotor cortex (involved in storing/executing motor programs)—relative to other category‐related regions in VOTC of both the right and left hemisphere. Our findings support the claim that privileged connectivity with other cortical regions that store and/or process category‐relevant properties constrains the category‐related organization of VOTC. Hum Brain Mapp 36:2187–2206, 2015. © Published 2015. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Fullerene‐like Re‐Doped MoS2 Nanoparticles as an Intercalation Host with Fast Kinetics for Sodium Ion Batteries
Authors: Woo Seung Hee , Yadgarov Lena , Rosentsveig Rita , Park Yuwon , Song Daesun , Tenne Reshef , Hong Sung You
Published: February 2015

Sodium ion batteries (SIBs) are considered as a promising alternative to threaten the reign of lithium ion batteries (LIBs) among various next‐generation rechargeable energy storage systems, including magnesium ion, metalair, and metalsulfur batteries. Since both sodium and lithium are located in Group 1 of the periodic table, they share similar (electro)chemical properties with regard to ionization pattern, electronegativity, and electronic configuration; thus the vast number of compounds developed from LIBs can provide guidance to design electrode materials for SIBs. However, the larger ionic radius of the sodium cation and unique (de)sodiation processes may also lead to uncertainties in terms of thermodynamic or kinetic properties. Herein, we present the first construction of SIBs based on inorganic fullerene‐like (IF) MoS2 nanoparticles. Closed‐shell‐type structures, represented by C60 fullerene, have largely been neglected for studies of alkali‐metal hosting materials due to their inaccessibility for intercalating ions into the inner spaces. However, IF‐MoS2, with faceted surfaces, can diffuse sodium ions through the defective channels, thereby allowing reversible sodium ion intercalation/deintercalation. Interestingly, Re‐doped MoS2 showed good electrochemical performances with fast kinetics (ca. 74 mA h g−1 at 20 C). N‐type doping caused by Re substitution of Mo in IF‐MoS2 revealed enhanced electrical conductivity and an increased number of diffusion defect sites. Thus, chemical modification of fullerene‐like structures through doping is proven to be a promising synthetic strategy to prepare improved electrodes.
First Synthesis of the α‐L‐Serine Linked Consensus Disaccharide of Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Neisseria meningitidis
Authors: Jana Santanu , Emmadi Madhu , Kulkarni Suvarn S.
Published: February 2015

The first total synthesis of the α‐L‐serine linked consensus disaccharide of Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Neisseria meningitidis was carried out in six linear steps, with 20.6 % overall yield.
Chemical Synthesis of Homogeneous Glycoproteins for the Study of Glycoprotein Quality Control System
Authors: Izumi Masayuki , Dedola Simone , Ito Yukishige , Kajihara Yasuhiro
Published: February 2015

The glycoprotein quality control system exists in the endoplasmic reticulum to maintain protein homeostasis and prevent accumulation of aberrant glycoproteins. Folding sensor enzyme uridine diphosphate (UDP)glucose : glycoprotein glucosyltransferase (UGGT) plays an important role in this system through its ability to discriminate immature or misfolded glycoproteins from native ones. UGGT transfers a glucose residue to a glycoprotein containing Man9GlcNAc2 (M9; Man=mannose, GlcNAc=N‐acetyl‐D‐glucosamine) N‐glycan only when the glycoprotein has not attained a native form. We chemically prepared homogeneous glycoproteins containing M9 N‐glycan in the native form as well as in misfolded forms and examined them as substrates of UGGT. Glucose transfer to misfolded glycoproteins was clearly observed by LC‐MS, but glycoproteins in the native form were barely glucosylated. Furthermore, we constructed an in vitro glycoprotein folding system in the presence of UGGT and found out that all folding intermediates which appeared during folding were also glucosylated. Through these experiments, we demonstrated the usefulness of chemically synthesized homogeneous glycoproteins as probes to gain insights into the molecular basis of the glycoprotein quality control system.
Allostery mediates ligand binding to WWOX tumor suppressor via a conformational switch
Authors: Schuchardt Brett J. , Mikles David C. , Bhat Vikas , McDonald Caleb B. , Sudol Marius , Farooq Amjad
Published: February 2015

While being devoid of the ability to recognize ligands itself, the WW2 domain is believed to aid ligand binding to the WW1 domain in the context of a WW1–WW2 tandem module of WW domain‐containing oxidoreductase (WWOX) tumor suppressor. In an effort to test the generality of this hypothesis, we have undertaken here a detailed biophysical analysis of the binding of WW domains of WWOX alone and in the context of the WW1–WW2 tandem module to an array of putative proline‐proline‐x–tyrosine (PPXY) ligands. Our data show that while the WW1 domain of WWOX binds to all ligands in a physiologically relevant manner, the WW2 domain does not. Moreover, ligand binding to the WW1 domain in the context of the WW1–WW2 tandem module is two‐to‐three‐fold stronger than when treated alone. We also provide evidence that the WW domains within the WW1–WW2 tandem module physically associate so as to adopt a fixed spatial orientation relative to each other. Of particular note is the observation that the physical association of the WW2 domain with WW1 blocks access to ligands. Consequently, ligand binding to the WW1 domain not only results in the displacement of the WW2 lid but also disrupts the physical association of WW domains in the liganded conformation. Taken together, our study underscores a key role of allosteric communication in the ability of the WW2 orphan domain to chaperone physiological action of the WW1 domain within the context of the WW1–WW2 tandem module of WWOX. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Minimization of errors in biexponential T2 measurements of the prostate
Authors: Gilani Nima , Rosenkrantz Andrew B. , Malcolm Paul , Johnson Glyn
Published: February 2015

Purpose

To determine the echo times that provide the greatest precision in measurements of prostate T2s. T2 relaxation time measurements in the prostate are complicated by the structure of prostate tissue, which consists of fluid‐filled glands surrounded by epithelial and stromal cells. Since the glands are large relative to diffusion distances, there is little water exchange between the two compartments and T2s are biexponential. Because the relative size and characteristics of the two compartments change in prostate tumors, accurate measurement of the characteristics of each may provide useful information on tumor grade.

Materials and Methods

T2s were measured in a group of 25 men with biopsy‐proven prostate cancer. Subjects were scanned at 3T with a 16‐echo turbo‐spin echo T2‐mapping sequence. Normal prostate T2s were measured in areas showing no disease. Optimum echo times for measurement of normal prostate T2s were found by calculating the covariance matrix, which provides estimates of parameter variance. Echo times that minimize T2 variance were then found by searching over grids of different echo times. Optima for four to eight echo acquisitions were found. Optima were tested by Monte Carlo simulation.

Results

Fast and slow T2s were 60 msec and 360 msec, respectively. The fast signal fraction was 0.6. Optimum echo times were between 0 and 780 msec, depending on the number of echoes acquired.

Conclusion

Use of optimum echo times can substantially improve the precision of biexponential T2 measurements. This optimization is anticipated to improve prostate cancer characterization using T2 measurements. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;42:1072–1077.
Dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI evaluates the early response of human head and neck tumor xenografts following anti‐EMMPRIN therapy with cisplatin or irradiation
Authors: Kim Hyunki , Hartman Yolanda E. , Zhai Guihua , Chung Thomas K. , Korb Melissa L. , Beasley Timothy M. , Zhou Tong , Rosenthal Eben L.
Published: February 2015

Purpose

To assess the early therapeutic effects of anti‐EMMPRIN (extracellular matrix metalloprotease inducer) antibody with/without cisplatin or X‐ray radiation in head and neck cancer mouse models using dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE‐MRI).

Materials and Methods

Mice bearing SCC1 (or OSC19) tumor xenografts were treated with anti‐EMMPRIN antibody, radiation, cisplatin, or anti‐EMMPRIN antibody plus cisplatin (or radiation) for a week (n = 4–5 per group). DCE‐MRI was carried out on a 9.4T small animal MR scanner on days 0, 3, and 7, and Ktrans values were averaged in a 0.5‐mm‐thick peripheral tumor region. Ki67 and CD31 staining were implemented for all tumors after imaging.

Results

The Ktrans changes of SCC1 and OSC19 tumors treated with anti‐EMMPRIN antibody for 3 days were −18 ± 8% and 4 ± 7%, respectively, which were significantly lower than those of control groups (39 ± 5% and 45 ± 7%; P = 0.0025 and 0.0220, respectively). When cisplatin was added, those were −42 ± 9% and −44 ± 9%, respectively, and with radiation, −45 ± 9% and −27 ± 10%, respectively, which were also significantly lower than those of control groups (P < 0.0001 for all four comparisons). In the eight groups untreated (served as control) or treated with anti‐EMMPRIN antibody with/without cisplatin or radiation, the mean Ktrans change for 3 days was significantly correlated with the mean tumor volume change for 7 days (r = 0.74, P = 0.0346), Ki67‐expressing cell density (r = 0.96, P = 0.0001), and CD31 density (r = 0.84, P = 0.0084).

Conclusion

DCE‐MRI might be utilized to assess the early therapeutic effects of anti‐EMMPRIN antibody with/without chemotherapy or radiotherapy in head and neck cancer. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;42:936–945.
Histone acetylation inhibitors promote axon growth in adult dorsal root ganglia neurons
Authors: Lin Shen , Nazif Kutaiba , Smith Alexander , Baas Peter W. , Smith George M.
Published: February 2015

Intrinsic mechanisms that guide damaged axons to regenerate following spinal cord injury remain poorly understood. Manipulation of posttranslational modifications of key proteins in mature neurons could reinvigorate growth machinery after injury. One such modification is acetylation, a reversible process controlled by two enzyme families, the histone deacetylases (HDACs) and the histone acetyl transferases (HATs), acting in opposition. Whereas acetylated histones in the nucleus are associated with upregulation of growth‐promoting genes, deacetylated tubulin in the axoplasm is associated with more labile microtubules, conducive to axon growth. This study investigates the effects of HAT and HDAC inhibitors on cultured adult dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons and shows that inhibition of HATs by anacardic acid or CPTH2 improves axon outgrowth, whereas inhibition of HDACs by TSA or tubacin inhibits axon growth. Anacardic acid increased the number of axons able to cross an inhibitory chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan border. Histone acetylation but not tubulin acetylation level was affected by HAT inhibitors, whereas tubulin acetylation levels were increased in the presence of the HDAC inhibitor tubacin. Although the microtubule‐stabilizing drug taxol did not have an effect on the lengths of DRG axons, nocodazole decreased axon lengths. Determining the mechanistic basis will require future studies, but this study shows that inhibitors of HAT can augment axon growth in adult DRG neurons, with the potential of aiding axon growth over inhibitory substrates produced by the glial scar. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Potential use of rare earth oxides as tracers of organic matter in grassland
Authors: Senbayram Mehmet , Bol Roland , Dixon Liz , Fisher Andrew , Stevens Carly , Quinton John , Fangueiro David
Published: February 2015

Tracing organic matter (OM) in soil is challenging, because runoff and leaching processes are interrelated and have multiple sources. Therefore, multiple tracers with low background concentrations such as rare earth element oxides (REOs) are necessary to delineate the origin of sources of the organic materials in groundwater, rivers or in catchments. The main objective of this study was to examine the potential use of REOs as a tracer in various forms of OM (1) whole slurry, (2) solid, and (3) liquid phase of cattle slurry after mechanical separation. A laboratory experiment was carried out using five REOs (La, Gd, Sm, Pr, and Nd oxides) mixed directly into soil or mixed with various fractions of cattle slurry and then applied to the soil surface. In the additional grassland experiment, Gd oxide was spiked with soil and cattle slurry and then applied to the soil surface. The mineral N in the liquid phase (urine) of the slurry in the grassland experiment was labelled with 15N urea (16 atom%). In the laboratory experiment, results showed that the five REOs concentration of soil in 0–1 cm soil section after the rainfall simulation was still up to 20 times more than the background values. In 1–2 cm soil section, the concentration of only Gd (two fold higher) and La oxides (50% higher) were significantly higher than the soil background values. Therefore, we hypothesized that Gd and La oxides were associated also with relatively finer organic particles in slurry, thus 1–2 cm soil section were enriched with these oxides. The five REOs concentration below 2 cm soil depth were similar to the background values in all treatments. In line with the laboratory experiment, Gd concentrations in the deeper soil layers (2–4 and 4–8 cm) in the grassland experiment were not significantly affected by any treatment. Both in grassland and laboratory experiment, solid phase of the slurry (dung) was collected from the soil surface after rainfall simulation. Here, about 56% of REOs were measured on the solid phase of the slurry which indicates the strong binding potential of REOs on slurry OM. The present novel study, where REO tagged slurry was uniquely tested to study geochemical cycle of organic fertilizers, clearly highlighted the potential for their use as multiple‐tracers of (animal derived‐) OM in agricultural soils.
Incorporation of liposomes containing squid tunic ACE‐inhibitory peptides into fish gelatin
Authors: Mosquera Mauricio , Giménez Begoña , Montero Pilar , Gómez‐Guillén Maria Carmen
Published: February 2015

BACKGROUND

Hydrolysates from collagen of jumbo squid (Dosidicus gigas) tunics have shown excellent angiotensin I‐converting enzyme (ACE)‐inhibitory activity. However, peptides directly included in food systems may suffer a decrease in activity, which could be minimized by loading them into nanoliposomes.

RESULTS

A fraction of peptides with molecular weights <1 kDa obtained from hydrolyzed squid tunics, with reasonably high ACE‐inhibitory activity (half‐maximal inhibitory concentration IC50 = 0.096 g L−1), was encapsulated in phosphatidylcholine nanoliposomes. The peptide concentration affected the encapsulation efficiency and the stability of the resulting liposomes, which remained with a high zeta potential value (−54.3 mV) for at least 1 week at the most suitable peptide concentration. The optimal peptide concentration was established as 1.75 g L−1. Liposomes obtained with this peptide concentration showed an encapsulation efficiency of 53%, a zeta potential of −59 mV, an average diameter of 70.3 nm and proved to be stable in the pH range 3–7 at 4 °C.

CONCLUSION

Liposomes containing ACE‐inhibitory peptides were incorporated in fish gelatin without detriment to the rheological properties and thermal stability of the resulting cold‐induced gel. The ACE‐inhibitory activity of the peptide fraction, which was not affected by the encapsulation process, conferred the bioactive potential to the nanoliposome‐containing gelatin gel. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Epidemiology of otologic diagnoses inUnitedStates emergency departments
Authors: Kozin Elliott D. , Sethi Rosh K.V. , Remenschneider Aaron K. , Kaplan Alyson B. , del Portal Daniel A. , Gray Stacey T. , Shrime Mark G. , Lee Daniel J.
Published: February 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

Otologic complaints may place a significant burden on emergency departments (EDs) in the United States; however, few studies have comprehensively examined this discrete patient population. We aimed to identify utilization of EDs by patients with primary otologic complaints.

Study Design

Retrospective analysis of the Nationwide Emergency Department Sample (NEDS) from 2009 through 2011.

Methods

The NEDS database was queried for patient encounters with a primary otologic diagnosis based on International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision codes (380–389). Weighted estimates for demographics, diagnostic characteristics, socioeconomic status, and trends over time were extracted. Predictors of mortality and admission were determined by multivariable logistic regression.

Results

A weighted total of 8,611,282 visits between 2009 and 2011 were attributed to otologic diagnoses, representing 2.21% of all ED visits. Stratified by patient age, otologic diagnoses encompassed 1.01% and 6.79% of all adult and pediatric ED visits, respectively. The majority of patients were treated and released (98.17%). The average age of patients presenting with an otologic complaint was 17.9 years (standard error = 0.23). Overall, 62.7% of patients who presented with an otologic complaint were 0 to 17 years old. The most common diagnoses among all age groups included otitis media not otherwise specified (NOS) (60.6%), infected otitis externa NOS (11.8%), and otalgia NOS (6.8%).

Conclusions

We provide a comprehensive overview of otologic complaints that are an overlooked diagnostic category in public health research. NEDS data demonstrate a significant number of visits related to otologic complaints, especially in the pediatric population, that are nonemergent.

Level of Evidence

4Laryngoscope, 125:1926–1933, 2015
Synthesis of Block Copolymers Based on Polyethylene by Thermally Induced Controlled Radical Polymerization Using Mn2(CO)10
Authors: Ciftci Mustafa , Norsic Sébastien , Boisson Christophe , D'Agosto Franck , Yagci Yusuf
Published: February 2015

Iodo functionalized polyethylene (PE‐I), prepared by the addition of iodine after catalyzed poly­ethylene chain growth on magnesium, is demonstrated to be an efficient macroinitiator for thermally induced, controlled free radical polymerization using dimanganese decacarbonyl (Mn2(CO)10). The free radical polymerization of methyl methacrylate is initiated by thermal homolysis of (Mn2(CO)10) at 80 °C, forming reactive manganese pentacarbonyl radical species [•Mn(CO)5] capable of activating the C−I bond of PE‐I. The metal catalyzed radical generation and degenerative iodine processes yielded polyethylene‐b‐poly(methyl methacrylate) (PE‐b‐PMMA) block copolymers with relatively low dispersities. The end group functionality of the block copolymer is confirmed by the successful thermal polymerization of styrene by using PE‐b‐PMMA as a macro­initiator in the described process. This work conclusively provides a new approach for combining polyethylene with vinyl polymers via manganese chemistry in a simple and efficient pathway of importance in synthetic polymer chemistry and other related applications.

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Mass spectrometry of extracellular vesicles
Authors: Pocsfalvi Gabriella , Stanly Christopher , Vilasi Annalisa , Fiume Immacolata , Capasso Giovambattista , Turiák Lilla , Buzas Edit I , Vékey Károly
Published: February 2015

The review briefly summaries main features of extracellular vesicles, a joint terminology for exosomes, microvesicles, and apoptotic vesicles. These vesicles are in the center of interest in biology and medical sciences, and form a very active field of research. Mass spectrometry (MS), with its specificity and sensitivity, has the potential to identify and characterize molecular composition of these vesicles; but as yet there are only a limited, but fast‐growing, number of publications that use MS workflows in this field. MS is the major tool to assess protein composition of extracellular vesicles: qualitative and quantitative proteomics approaches are both reviewed. Beside proteins, lipid and metabolite composition of vesicles might also be best assessed by MS techniques; however there are few applications as yet in this respect. The role of alternative analytical approaches, like gel‐based proteomics and antibody‐based immunoassays, are also mentioned. The objective of the review is to give an overview of this fast‐growing field to help orient MS‐based research on extracellular vesicles. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Mass Spec Rev 35: 3–21, 2016.
Drug Side Effect Profiles as Molecular Descriptors for Predictive Modeling of Target Bioactivity
Authors: Baker Nancy C. , Fourches Denis , Tropsha Alexander
Published: February 2015

We have explored the potential of using side effect profiles of drugs to predict their bioactivities at the receptor level. Serotonin 5‐HT6 binding and dopamine antagonism were investigated in separate studies. A set of 5‐HT6 binders and non‐binders was retrieved from the PDSP Ki database, whereas dopamine antagonists were retrieved from the MeSH Pharmaceutical Action file. The side effect data was extracted from ChemoText, a data repository containing MeSH annotations pulled from MEDLINE records. These side effects profiles were treated as molecular descriptors enabling a QSAR‐like approach to build models that could reliably discriminate different classes of molecules, e.g., binders versus non‐binders, and dopamine antagonists versus non‐antagonists. Selected models with the best external prediction performances were applied to a library of ca. 1000 chemicals with known side effects profiles in order to predict their potential 5‐HT6 binding and/or dopamine antagonism. In each case the virtual screening process was able to identify putatively active compounds that through subsequent literature‐based validation were found to be likely or known 5‐HT6 binders or dopamine antagonists. These results demonstrate that side effect profiles can be utilized to predict a drug’s unknown molecular activity, thus representing a valuable opportunity in repositioning the drug for a new indications.
Effect of voluntary physical activity initiated at age 7 months on skeletal hindlimb and cardiac muscle function in mdx mice of both genders
Authors: Ferry Arnaud , Benchaouir Rachid , Joanne Pierre , Peat Rachel A. , Mougenot Nathalie , Agbulut Onnik , Butler‐Browne Gillian
Published: February 2015

Introduction: The effects of voluntary activity initiated in adult mdx (C57BL/10ScSc‐DMDmdx/J) mice on skeletal and cardiac muscle function have not been studied extensively. Methods: We studied the effects of 3 months of voluntary wheel running initiated at age 7 months on hindlimb muscle weakness, increased susceptibility to muscle contraction−induced injury, and left ventricular function in mdx mice. Results: We found that voluntary wheel running did not worsen the deficit in force‐generating capacity and the force drop after lengthening contractions in either mdx mouse gender. It increased the absolute maximal force of skeletal muscle in female mdx mice. Moreover, it did not affect left ventricular function, structural heart dimensions, cardiac gene expression of inflammation, fibrosis, or remodeling markers. Conclusion: These results indicate that voluntary activity initiated at age 7 months had no detrimental effects on skeletal or cardiac muscles in either mdx mouse gender. Muscle Nerve 52: 788–794, 2015
Muscle ultrasound quantifies disease progression over time in infants and young boys with duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Zaidman Craig M. , Malkus Elizabeth C. , Connolly Anne M.
Published: February 2015

Introduction: Quantitative muscle ultrasound (QUS) in boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) shows increased echointensity as muscle is replaced with fat and fibrosis. Studies of quantitative ultrasound in infants/young boys with DMD over time have not been reported. Methods: We used calibrated muscle backscatter (cMB), a reproducible measure of ultrasound echointensity, to quantify muscle pathology in 5 young boys with DMD (ages 0.5–2.8 years) over 17–29 months. We compared the results with repeated assessments of function (n = 4) and with muscle ultrasound images from a cross‐section of 6 male controls (0.6–3.1 years). Results: cMB in boys with DMD increased (worsened) over time (P < 0.001), whereas function improved. After age 2 years, cMB in most (4 of 5) boys with DMD was higher than in any control. Conclusions: QUS measures disease progression in young boys with DMD despite functional improvements. QUS could be employed as an outcome measure for serial assessment of young boys with DMD. Muscle Nerve 52: 334–338, 2015
Morphological changes in the cervical muscles of women with chronic whiplash can be modified with exercise—A pilot study
Authors: O'leary Shaun , Jull Gwendolen , Van Wyk Luke , Pedler Ashley , Elliott James
Published: February 2015

Introduction: In this preliminary study we determined whether MRI markers of cervical muscle degeneration [elevated muscle fatty infiltration (MFI), cross‐sectional area (CSA), and reduced relative muscle CSA (rmCSA)] could be modified with exercise in patients with chronic whiplash. Methods: Five women with chronic whiplash undertook 10 weeks of neck exercise. MRI measures of the cervical multifidus (posterior) and longus capitus/colli (anterior) muscles, neck muscle strength, and self‐reported neck disability were recorded at baseline and at completion of the exercise program. Results: Overall significant increases in CSA and rmCSA were observed for both muscles, but significant reductions in MFI were only evident in the cervical multifidus muscle. These changes coincided with increased muscle strength and reduced neck disability. Conclusions: MRI markers of muscle morphology in individuals with chronic whiplash appear to be modifiable with exercise. Muscle Nerve 52: 772–779, 2015
Ultrasonographic identification of nerve pathology in neuralgic amyotrophy: Enlargement, constriction, fascicular entwinement, and torsion
Authors: Arányi Zsuzsanna , Csillik Anita , Dévay Katalin , Rosero Maja , Barsi Péter , Böhm Josef , Schelle Thomas
Published: February 2015

Introduction

The aim of this study was to characterize the ultrasonographic findings on nerves in neuralgic amyotrophy.

Methods

Fourteen patients with neuralgic amyotrophy were examined using high‐resolution ultrasound.

Results

Four types of abnormalities were found: (1) focal or diffuse nerve/fascicle enlargement (57%); (2) incomplete nerve constriction (36%); (3) complete nerve constriction with torsion (50%; hourglass‐like appearance); and (4) fascicular entwinement (28%). Torsions were confirmed intraoperatively and were seen on the radial nerve in 85% of patients. A significant correlation was found between no spontaneous recovery of nerve function and constriction/torsion/fascicular entwinement (P = 0.007).

Conclusion

Ultrasonographic nerve pathology in neuralgic amyotrophy varies in order of severity from nerve enlargement to constriction to nerve torsion, with treatment ranging from conservative to surgical. We postulate that the constriction caused by inflammation is the precursor of torsion and that development of nerve torsion is facilitated by the rotational movements of limbs. Muscle Nerve 52: 503–511, 2015
Fibromyalgia‐like symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome: A challenging diagnosis of late‐onset Pompe disease
Authors: Gesquière‐Dando Aude , Attarian Shahram , Maues De Paula André , Pouget Jean , Salort‐Campana Emmanuelle
Published: February 2015

Introduction: Late‐onset Pompe disease (LOPD) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder which usually presents as a limb‐girdle myopathy with early respiratory involvement. Methods: We report 2 sisters with an uncommon presentation of LOPD characterized by fibromyalgia‐like pain associated with irritable bowel syndrome. Results: In both sisters, clinical examination was normal and had remained stable for 10 years. The serum creatine kinase level was mildly elevated. Several muscle biopsies showed slight nonspecific myopathic abnormalities. A dried blood spot test indicated acid maltase deficiency. The diagnosis of LOPD was confirmed genetically. Both sisters subsequently developed proximal muscle weakness after pregnancy and started enzyme replacement therapy. Under treatment, gastrointestinal symptoms improved, but pain persisted. Conclusions: Clinicians should be aware of this atypical presentation of LOPD to enable earlier diagnosis and treatment. Muscle Nerve 52: 300–304, 2015
Amelioration of ischemia‐reperfusion–induced muscle injury by the recombinant human MG53 protein
Authors: Zhu Hua , Hou Jincai , Roe Janet L. , Park Ki Ho , Tan Tao , Zheng Yongqiu , Li Lei , Zhang Cuixiang , Liu Jianxun , Liu Zhenguo , MA Jianjie , Walters Thomas J.
Published: February 2015

Introduction: Ischemia‐reperfusion injury (I‐R) in skeletal muscle requires timely treatment. Methods: Rodent models of I‐R injury were used to test the efficacy of recombinant human MG53 (rhMG53) protein for protecting skeletal muscle. Results: In a mouse I‐R injury model, we found that mg53,−/− mice are more susceptible to I‐R injury. rhMG53 applied intravenously to the wild‐type mice protected I‐R injured muscle, as demonstrated by reduced CK release and Evans blue staining. Histochemical studies confirmed beneficial effects of rhMG53. Of interest, rhMG53 did not protect against I‐R injury in rat skeletal muscle. This was likely due to the fact that the plasma level of endogenous MG53 protein is high in rats. Conclusions: Our data suggest that rhMG53 may be a potential therapy for protection against muscle trauma. A mouse model appears to be a better choice than a rat model for evaluating potential treatments for protecting skeletal muscle. Muscle Nerve 52: 852–858, 2015
Layers of Experiments with Adaptive Combined Design
Authors: Kim Sungil , Kim Heeyoung , Lu Jye‐Chyi , Casciato Michael J. , Grover Martha A. , Hess Dennis W. , Lu Richard W. , Wang Xin
Published: February 2015

In the field of nanofabrication, engineers often face unique challenges in resource‐limited experimental budgets, the sensitive nature of process behavior with respect to controllable variables, and highly demanding tolerance requirements. To effectively overcome these challenges, this article proposes a methodology for a sequential design of experiments through batches of experimental runs, aptly named Layers of Experiments with Adaptive Combined Design (LoE/ACD). In higher layers, where process behavior is less understood, experimental regions cover more design space and data points are more spread out. In lower layers, experimental regions are more focused to improve understanding of process sensitivities in a local, data‐rich environment. The experimental design is a combination of a space‐filling and an optimal design with a tuning parameter that is dependent on the amount of information accumulated over the various layers. The proposed LoE/ACD method is applied to optimize a carbon dioxide (epet‐CO2) assisted deposition process for fabricating silver nanoparticles with pressure and temperature variables. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics 62: 127–142, 2015
Compact and efficient conservative schemes for coupled nonlinear Schrödinger equations
Authors: Kong Linghua , Hong Jialin , Ji Lihai , Zhu Pengfei
Published: February 2015

In the manuscript, we present several numerical schemes to approximate the coupled nonlinear Schrödinger equations. Three of them are high‐order compact and conservative, and the other two are noncompact but conservative. After some numerical analysis, we can find that the schemes are uniquely solvable and convergent. All of them are conservative and stable. By calculating the complexity, we can find that the compact schemes have the same computational cost with the noncompact ones. Numerical illustrations support our analysis. They verify that compact schemes are more efficient than noncompact ones from computation cost and accuracy. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 31: 1814–1843, 2015
Glycerol: a promising agent for nanodispersion and compatibility of EVA/organomodified montmorillonite nanocomposites
Authors: Visentini Claudia Bauer , Liberman Susana Alcira , Mauler Raquel Santos
Published: February 2015

Ethylene‐vinyl acetate (EVA) nanocomposites were extruded with two types of organomodified montmorillonite (OMMT) and 1 wt% glycerol. The characterization of the nanocomposites was performed by transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, and dynamic mechanical analysis. The experimental results revealed that glycerol improved the Cloisite 30B clay exfoliation and promoted a rise in aspect ratio of the Cloisite 20A clay. In the rubbery region, the EVA/G showed a higher storage modulus than the EVA, as a result of the network of hydrogen bonds. The entanglements of long chains were more effective in the restrictions of large‐scale movements than the chemical interactions. The addition of glycerol promoted greater reinforcement and an increase in the tenacity of the nanocomposites in the glassy region. The use of glycerol for the production of EVA/OMMT nanocomposites was found to be promising. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Viscosity and refractive index adjustment of poly(methyl methacrylate‐co‐ethyleneglycol dimethacrylate) for application in microoptics
Authors: Hanemann Thomas , Honnef Kirsten
Published: February 2015

Polymer optical components like waveguides or lenses are gaining more and importance as passive or active devices enabling the formation of a sensor and detector platform, e.g. for monitoring the health of large area functional surfaces, which are difficult to access like the wings of an off‐shore wind energy plant. With respect to low‐loss waveguiding and the use of chemical and mechanical stable polymers there is a need to tailor the optical as well as the thermomechanical properties. The given approach describes the addition of electron‐rich small organic molecules like phenanthrene to a poly(methyl methacrylate)‐based polymer matrix enabling a significant refractive index increase from 1.49 up to almost 1.55 (@589 nm). As undesirable side effects the optical transmittance in the visible range at higher guest molecule content is reduced, and a pronounced plasticizing occurs. Both hamper the application of the mixture, e.g. as optical waveguide material. The plasticizing and the accompanied drop of the glass transition temperature, determining the maximum operation temperature, can be partially compensated by the copolymerization of the methyl methacrylate monomer (MMA) with the difunctional monomer ethyleneglycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) at certain crosslinker content. The resulting new developed guest–host mixtures enable the realization of optical devices with adjusted rheological behavior prior to curing and tailored optical properties after polymerization. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Solvent‐free fabrication of proton‐conducting membranes based on commercial elastomers
Authors: He Shaojian , Lin Yankai , Wei Zheng , Zhang Liqun , Lin Jun , Nazarenko Seigei
Published: February 2015

Five different types of elastomers were examined as the matrix materials in the preparation of non‐fluorinated proton exchange membranes utilizing a solvent‐free route via thein situreaction of sodium 4‐styrenesulfonate (NaSS). The morphology of the elastomer/NaSS vulcanizates was studied to evaluate the effect of polarity, viscosity and saturation degree of the elastomer matrixes. Much better dispersion of NaSS was found in chlorosulfonated polyethylene rubber (CSM) and hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber (HNBR) matrixes than in the other three types of elastomer matrixes. For CSM/NaSS and HNBR/NaSS proton exchange membranes, distinctive membrane properties were observed and correlated with their different structure and morphologies. The CSM/NaSS membranes exhibited the proton conductivity as high as ~0.03 S cm−1and the selectivity (the ratio of proton conductivity to methanol permeability) higher than that of Nafion. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modification of polysulfone hollow fiber ultrafiltration membranes using hyperbranched polyesters with different molecular weights
Authors: Zhao Long‐Bao , Liu Min , Xu Zhen‐Liang , Wei Yong‐Ming , Xu Min‐Xian , Jiang Bang‐He
Published: February 2015

A series of hyperbranched polyesters (HBPEs) using trimethylolpropane (TMP) as a core were synthesized via an esterification reaction, and the molecular weights of these HBPEs were 1600, 2260, 3370, and 5170 g/mol, respectively. Then, these HBPEs were added into dope solutions to prepare PSf hollow fiber membranes via a wet‐spinning method. When the HBPE molecule weight increased from 1600 to 5170 g/mol, the initial viscosities of the PSf–HBPE–PEG400–DMAc dope solutions increased, and the shear‐thinning phenomenon of these dope solutions became increasingly obvious. When these dope solutions were immersed into the deionized water, the demixing rate increased with an increase in the HBPE molecule weight at first and then decreased; this results in the increase of membrane porosity and the coexistence of finger‐like and sponge‐like structures. With the addition of HBPE, the start pure water contact angle and the mean effective pore size of the membranes decreased, and the Jw increased. For the mechanical properties of the membranes, the breaking strength and the elongation of the membranes also increased. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.