bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endovascular stenting for treatment of a left internal mammary artery pseudoaneurysm following redo‐sternotomy: A case report
Authors: Cheung Paul K.M. , Philipp Roger K. , Freed Darren H.
Published: February 2013

An 85‐year‐old gentlemen with a history of previous triple vessel coronary bypass grafting presented with severe aortic stenosis and occlusion of the previous saphenous vein grafts but with patent left internal mammary artery (LIMA)–left anterior descending. The patient underwent uncomplicated repeat sternotomy and aortic valve replacement with repeated coronary bypass. On post‐operative day 21 the patient was successfully resuscitated from a pulseless electrical activity (PEA) arrest, and was found to have a 1‐cm pseudoaneurysm of the left internal mammary artery at the level of sternomanubrial junction with associated hemothorax. The LIMA remained patent and a pinhole source of extravasation was discovered by angiography at the aneurysmal site. The defect was successfully repaired by endovascular implant of a 3.5 mm × 12 mm Graft Master covered stent (Abbott Vascular). The patient recovered well from the procedure without further complications and was discharged after a total of 48 days of hospital stay. Our experience confirms the feasibility of repairing post‐operative pseudoaneurysm in the internal mammary artery by endovascular stent grafting, thereby avoiding the risks and complications of a repeat open chest procedure. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Wettstreit um die Polyamidfasern
Authors: Vogler Herbert
Published: February 2013

Beginnend in den 1930er Jahren wurde die Textilwelt durch die Erfindung der synthetischen Fasern nachhaltig verändert. Nicht nur das Angebot an textilen Rohstoffen wurde ausgeweitet, sondern mit Hilfe der neuen Fasern entstanden Textilartikel mit bis dahin nicht bekannten Eigenschaften. Ein Blick zurück anlässlich 75 Jahre Polyamidfaser Perlon.
Climate change impacts on potential recruitment in an ecosystem engineer
Authors: Morgan Emer , O' Riordan Ruth M. , Culloty Sarah C.
Published: February 2013

Climate variability and the rapid warming of seas undoubtedly have huge ramifications for biological processes such as reproduction. As such, gametogenesis and spawning were investigated at two sites over 200 km apart on the south coast of Ireland in an ecosystem engineer, the common cockle, Cerastoderma edule. Both sites are classed as Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), but are of different water quality. Cerastoderma edule plays a significant biological role by recycling nutrients and affecting sediment structure, with impacts upon assemblage biomass and functional diversity. It plays a key role in food webs, being a common foodstuff for a number of marine birds including the oystercatcher. Both before and during the study (early 2010–mid 2011), Ireland experienced its two coldest winters for 50 years. As the research demonstrated only slight variation in the spawning period between sites, despite site differences in water and environmental quality, temperature and variable climatic conditions were the dominant factor controlling gametogenesis. The most significant finding was that the spawning period in the cockle extended over a greater number of months compared with previous studies and that gametogenesis commenced over winter rather than in spring. Extremely cold winters may impact on the cockle by accelerating and extending the onset and development of gametogenesis. Whether this impact is positive or negative would depend on the associated events occurring on which the cockle depends, that is, presence of primary producers and spring blooms, which would facilitate conversion of this extended gametogenesis into successful recruitment.
Genetic structure of introduced populations: 120‐year‐old DNA footprint of historic introduction in an insular small mammal population
Authors: Simpson Siobhan , Blampied Nick , Peniche Gabriela , Dozières Anne , Blackett Tiffany , Coleman Stephen , Cornish Nina , Groombridge Jim J.
Published: February 2013

Wildlife populations have been introduced to new areas by people for centuries, but this human‐mediated movement can disrupt natural patterns of genetic structure by altering patterns of gene flow. Insular populations are particularly prone to these influences due to limited opportunities for natural dispersal onto islands. Consequently, understanding how genetic patterns develop in island populations is important, particularly given that islands are frequently havens for protected wildlife. We examined the evolutionary origins and extent of genetic structure within the introduced island population of red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) on the Channel Island of Jersey using mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region sequence and nuclear microsatellite genotypes. Our findings reveal two different genetic origins and a genetic architecture reflective of the introductions 120 years ago. Genetic structure is marked within the maternally inherited mtDNA, indicating slow dispersal of female squirrels. However, nuclear markers detected only weak genetic structure, indicating substantially greater male dispersal. Data from both mitochondrial and nuclear markers support historic records that squirrels from England were introduced to the west of the island and those from mainland Europe to the east. Although some level of dispersal and introgression across the island between the two introductions is evident, there has not yet been sufficient gene flow to erase this historic genetic “footprint.” We also investigated if inbreeding has contributed to high observed levels of disease, but found no association. Genetic footprints of introductions can persist for considerable periods of time and beyond traditional timeframes of wildlife management.
Adaptive resistance: A tumor strategy to evade immune attack
Authors: Yao Sheng , Chen Lieping
Published: February 2013

A dilemma in cancer immunology is that, although patients often develop active antitumor immune responses, the tumor still outgrows. It has become clear that under the pressure of the host's immune system, cancer cells have adapted elaborate tactics to reduce their immunogenicity (also known as immunoselection) and/or to actively suppress immune cells and promote immune tolerance (also known as immunosubversion). In this issue of the European Journal of Immunology, Dolen and Esendagli [Eur. J. Immunol. 2013. 43: 747–757] show that acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells develop an adaptive immune phenotype switching mechanism: In response to attack by activated T cells, the leukemia cells quickly downregulate the T‐cell costimulatory ligand B7‐H2 and reciprocally upregulate the coinhibitory ligands B7‐H1 and B7‐DC in order to shut down T‐cell activation via the PD‐1 pathway. These novel findings and their relevance for cancer immunotherapy, especially potential applications in PD‐1 check‐point blockade therapy are discussed in this Commentary.
Copper(II) Complexes with Schiff Bases Containing a Disiloxane Unit: Synthesis, Structure, Bonding Features and Catalytic Activity for Aerobic Oxidation of Benzyl Alcohol
Authors: Soroceanu Alina , Cazacu Maria , Shova Sergiu , Turta Constantin , Kožíšek Jozef , Gall Marian , Breza Martin , Rapta Peter , Mac Leod Tatiana C. O. , Pombeiro Armando J. L. , Telser Joshua , Dobrov Anatolie A. , Arion Vladimir B.
Published: February 2013

Mononuclear copper(II) salen‐type Schiff base complexes, CuIIL1–5[H2L1to H2L5= tetradentateN,N,O,Oligands derived from 2‐hydroxybenzaldehyde, 2,4‐dihydroxybenzaldehyde, 3,5‐dibromo‐2‐hydroxybenzaldehyde, 2‐hydroxy‐5‐nitrobenzaldehyde, 5‐chloro‐2‐hydroxybenzaldehyde and 1,3‐bis(3‐aminopropyl)tetramethyldisiloxane, respectively] were prepared in situ in the presence of a copper(II) salt or by direct complexation between a copper(II) salt and a presynthesised Schiff base. The compounds {CuL1, CuL1·0.5Py, CuL2·0.375CH2Cl2, (CuL3)[Cu(4‐Me‐Py)4Cl]Cl·2H2O, CuL4, CuL4·CHCl3and CuL5, as well as the isolated ligand H2L3} were characterised by elemental analysis, spectroscopic methods (IR, UV/Vis,1H NMR, EPR) and X‐ray crystallography. The formation of a 12‐membered central chelate ring in these complexes is effected by the tetramethyldisiloxane unit, which separates the aliphatic chains, thus significantly reducing the mechanical strain in such a chelate ring. We dub this a “shoulder yoke effect” by analogy with the load‐spreading ability of such an ancient device. The coordination geometry of copper(II) in CuIIL1–5can be described as tetrahedrally distorted square‐planar. Maximum tetrahedral distortion of the coordination geometry expressed by the parameterτ4was observed for CuL1(0.460), while distortion was minimal for the two crystallographically independent molecules of CuL2(0.219 and 0.284). The Si–O–Si bond angle varies markedly between 169.75(2)° for CuL1and 154.2(3)° for CuL4·CHCl3. Charge‐density and DFT calculations on CuL1indicate high ionic character of the Si–O bonds in the tetramethyldisiloxane fragment. The new copper(II) complexes bearing the disiloxane moiety have been shown to act as catalyst precursors for the aerobic oxidation of benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde mediated by the TEMPO radical, reaching yields and TONs up to 99 % and 990, respectively, under mild and environmentally friendly conditions (50 °C; MeCN/H2O, 1:1).
Imido‐Supported Borohydrides of Titanium, Vanadium and Molybdenum
Authors: Khalimon Andrey Y. , Peterson Erik , Lorber Christian , Kuzmina Lyudmila G. , Howard Judith A. K. , van der Est Art , Nikonov Georgii I.
Published: February 2013

New imido bis(borohydride) complexes [(RN=)M(PMe3)2(η2‐BH4)2] [R = Ar, M = Ti (3); R = Ar, M = V (5); R = Ar, M = Mo (6); R = Ar′, M = Mo (7); Ar = 2,6‐iPr2C6H3, Ar′ = 2,6‐Me2C6H3] were prepared by the reaction of dichlorides [(RN=)MCl2(PMe3)n] (M = Ti, n = 2; M = V, n = 2, M = Mo, n = 3) with LiBH4 (2 equiv) in THF. Compounds 3, 5, 6 and 7 were studied by IR spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction, and an EPR spectroscopy study was performed for paramagnetic compound 5. In 3, the two borohydride units are orthogonal to each other as a result of the overlap of an antiphase combination of B–H orbitals with the empty dxy orbital of Ti. In contrast, the dxy orbital of the metal atom is singly occupied in 5 and fully occupied in 6 and 7, and both borohydride ligands are oriented in the same way, with the B(μ‐H2)M moieties orthogonal to the P–M–P vector.
Three Polymeric Polyoxometalate Compounds Based on Twisted Poly‐Keggin Chains
Authors: Ren Yuan‐hang , Hu Yi‐chen , Kong Zu‐ping , Gu Min , Yue Bin , He He‐yong
Published: February 2013

Three polymeric polyoxometalate (POM) compounds, [PMoVI10MoV2O39](C2N4H4)2[(CH3)4N]3·H2O (1), [PW11CuO39]2·[Cu(en)2H2O]4·[(CH3)4N]2·6H2O (en = ethenediamine) (2), and [SiW11CuO39]2·[Cu(en)2]4·[Cu(en)2H2O]2·10H2O (3) were isolated under hydrothermal conditions. Compound 1 contains one‐dimensional twisted poly‐Keggin chains that consist of two‐electron‐reduced Keggin units through MoV–Ot–MoV bridges. Compounds 2 and 3 contain one‐dimensional twisted poly‐Keggin chains that consist of Cu‐monosubstituted Keggin units through W–Ot–Cu bridges. Twisted chains are formed due to the different orientations of the Keggin units during polymerization. The compounds were characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, elemental analysis, IR, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), thermogravimetry (TG), and cyclic voltammetry. The driving force for polymerization by the sharing of a terminal oxygen atom per POM unit likely arises from the existence of a low‐valence metal (MoV or CuII), which reduces the charge density of each POM unit.
Hydrogen Peroxide Activation over TiIV: What Have We Learned from Studies on Ti‐Containing Polyoxometalates?
Authors: Kholdeeva Oxana A.
Published: February 2013

This short review paper summarizes recent findings in the field of H2O2 activation over TiIV centers on the basis of model studies of Ti‐containing polyoxometalates (Ti‐POM) that used both experimental and computational techniques. Alkene epoxidation with H2O2 mediated by two different POMs, the Ti‐monosubstituted Keggin‐type POM, [PTi(OH)W11O39]4– (1), and the Ti‐disubstituted sandwich‐type POM, [Ti2(OH)2As2W19O67(H2O)]8– (2), which contain well‐defined six‐ and five‐coordinate titanium atoms, respectively, as well as some other Ti‐POMs, has been explored to elucidate the role of the TiIV coordination environment in this reaction. The effect of the Ti‐POM protonation state on the mechanism of H2O2 activation has been analyzed in the context of its relevance to alkene epoxidation. The crucial factors that favor the heterolytic oxidation mechanism that leads to the selective formation of epoxides have been disclosed.
Effectiveness of modified zeolites as adsorbent materials for frying oils
Authors: Dülger Alper , Yılmaz Emin
Published: February 2013

Natural zeolite was modified by four different techniques namely using Tween80, β‐cyclodextrine and olive mill waste water at RT and hydrochloric acid at 110°C, and then modified zeolites were used as adsorbent materials in six consecutive days dough frying with refined hazelnut oil. Some parameters in the oil samples of control and experimental groups were measured and the ranges were determined as following; total polar materials (TPM)‐chromatography (4.09–70.22%), free acidity (0.16–1.19%), smoke point (221.50–184.00°C), conjugated dienoic acids (0.36–2.19%), L value (35.65–52.15), a* value (−0.18–5.98), b* value (−3.73–10.40), turbidity (0.70–10.40 NTU), viscosity (67.67–825.50 cP), and oil absorbed by the dough (5.10–8.85%). The results of this study have shown that both natural zeolite and modified zeolites have different level of activities as frying oil adsorbent materials. The best results were achieved with Tween80 modified zeolite for the TPMs, free acidity, instrumental color values, smoke point, and conjugated dienoic acid measurements. Similarly better result for turbidity was with olive mill waste water modified zeolite and for viscosity was with hydrochloric acid modified zeolite. It was determined that adsorbent treatment did not affect fat absorption level of fried dough.

Practical applications: The results of this study have shown that natural zeolite modification with different techniques can improve its adsorption capacity significantly. In this respect, utilization of modified zeolite for frying oil recovery applications can be an industrially sound practice since natural zeolite is a very cheap and easily found material.
Association of Thymbra capitata essential oil and chitosan (TCCH hydrogel): a putative therapeutic tool for the treatment of vulvovaginal candidosis
Authors: de‐Oliveira A. Palmeira‐ , de‐Oliveira R. Palmeira‐ , Gaspar C. , Salgueiro L. , Cavaleiro C. , de‐Oliveira J. Martinez‐ , Queiroz J.A. , Rodrigues A.G.
Published: February 2013

In this study we tested the anti‐Candida effect of Thymbra capitata essential oil (EO) plus chitosan and developed a new therapeutic tool. The classical check‐board methodology was used to determine the anti‐Candida activity that results from product association. The incorporation of T. capitata EO in a chitosan hydrogel, using lactic acid as the solvent, resulted in the TCCH hydrogel. Its anti‐Candida activity was studied by using 18 Candida strains, according to the CLSI M27‐A3 micromethod and the lethal effect according to the protocol proposed by Canton et al. The TCCH activity in acidic conditions corresponding to a healthy vaginal pH (4.5) was also tested. Its anti‐Candida activity upon pre‐formed biofilm metabolism and biomass was tested using the semi‐quantitative XTT reduction assay and the crystal violet staining assay, respectively. The hydrogel interaction with the yeast surface was shown by confocal microscopy. TCCH hydrogel presented an acidic nature, compatible with the vaginal pH. The association of both natural products revealed an additive effect upon Candida and TCCH hydrogel showed to be active upon both Candida planktonic and biofilms. No cell invasion was observed. Being a new product with an acidic nature compatible with the vaginal environment and presenting a potent effect upon Candida planktonic and biofilm cells, TCCH hydrogel could represent a valuable tool for the treatment of vulvovaginal candidosis. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A hybrid DSMC/Navier–Stokes frame to solve mixed rarefied/nonrarefied hypersonic flows over nano‐plate and micro‐cylinder
Authors: Darbandi Masoud , Roohi Ehsan
Published: February 2013

We extend a hybrid DSMC/Navier–Stokes (NS) approach to unify the DSMC and the NS simulators in one framework capable of solving the mixed non‐equilibrium and near‐equilibrium flow regions efficiently. Furthermore, we use a one‐way state‐based coupling (Dirichlet–Dirichlet boundary‐condition coupling) to transfer the required information from the continuum region to the rarefied one. The current hybrid DSMC–NS frame is applied to the hypersonic flows over nanoflat plate and microcylinder cases. The achieved solutions are compared with the pure DSMC and NS solutions. The results show that the current hybrid approach predicts the surface heat transfer rate and shear stress magnitudes very accurately. Some important conclusions can be drawn from this study. For example, although the shock wave region would be a non‐equilibrium region, it is not necessary to use a pure DSMC simulator to solve it entirely. This is important when the researchers wish to predict the surface properties such as velocity slip, temperature jump, wall heat flux rate, and friction drag magnitudes accurately. Our investigation showed that our hybrid solution time would be at least 40% (for the flat plate) and 35% (for the cylinder) of the time that must be spent by a pure DSMC solver to attain the same accuracy.Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Valproic acid induces astrocyte‐dependent neurite outgrowth from cultured rat primary cortical neuron via modulation of tPA/PAI‐1 activity
Authors: Cho Kyu Suk , Kwon Kyoung Ja , Choi Chang Soon , Jeon Se Jin , Kim Ki Chan , Park Jin Hee , Ko Hyun Myung , Lee Sung Hoon , Cheong Jae Hoon , Ryu Jong Hoon , Han Seol Heui , Shin Chan Young
Published: February 2013

Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) is expressed in several regions of brain and plays regulatory roles such as neurite outgrowth, synaptic plasticity and long term potentiation. The activity of tPA is regulated by an endogenous inhibitor plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1), which is expressed mainly in astrocytes. Valproic acid (VPA), a histone deacetylase inhibitor that is used for the treatment of epilepsy and bipolar disorders, promotes neurite extension, neuronal growth and has neuroprotective effect in neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, we examined whether the neurite extension effects of VPA is mediated by modulating tPA/PAI‐1 system. VPA dose‐dependently increased tPA activity and decreased PAI‐1 activity in rat primary astrocytes but not in neurons. PAI‐1 protein level secreted into the culture medium but not tPA per se was decreased by VPA. In co‐culture system or in neuronal culture stimulated with astrocyte conditioned media but not in pure neuronal cell culture, VPA induced neurite outgrowth via increased tPA activity due to the decreased PAI‐1 activity in astrocytes. The decrease in PAI‐1 activity and increased neurite extension was regulated via JNK mediated post‐transcriptional pathway. The essential role of tPA/PAI‐1 system in the regulation of VPA‐mediated neurite extension was further demonstrated by experiments using astrocyte conditioned media obtained from tPA or PAI‐1 knockout mice. Regulation of PAI‐1 activity in astrocyte by VPA may affect both physiological and pathological processes in brain by upregulating tPA activity. GLIA 2013
Superficial musculoaponeurotic system flap in partial parotidectomy and clinical and subclinical Frey's syndrome. Cosmesis and quality of life
Authors: Barberá Rafael , Castillo Felipe , D'Oleo Claudio , Benítez Susana , Cobeta Ignacio
Published: February 2013

Background

Frey's syndrome (FS), facial depression, and noticeable scar may have an impact on patient's quality of life after a parotidectomy. The superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) flap has been used to ameliorate those effects.

Methods

Forty‐seven consecutive parotidectomies were analyzed; SMAS flap was performed in 26 of them. We investigated clinical FS, subclinical FS, and cosmetic satisfaction, and compared SMAS flap versus cases where this was not done.

Results

By performing the SMAS flap, the occurrence of clinical FS was reduced; however, there was no significant difference. Nonetheless, there was a significant difference in the perspiration intensity in favor of the group with SMAS flaps. In the cases we studied, the cosmetic satisfaction was high, even though facial contour‐filling techniques were not used.

Conclusions

Provided that the intensity of sweating is the main factor affecting the quality of life after surgery in patients, performing a SMAS flap renders the intervention worthwhile. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 36: 130–136, 2014
Cellular and animal models for mitochondrial complex I deficiency: A focus on the NDUFS4 subunit
Authors: Breuer Megan E. , Willems Peter H.G.M. , Smeitink Jan A.M. , Koopman Werner J.H. , Nooteboom Marco
Published: February 2013

To allow the rational design of effective treatment strategies for human mitochondrial disorders, a proper understanding of their biochemical and pathophysiological aspects is required. The development and evaluation of these strategies require suitable model systems. In humans, inherited complex I (CI) deficiency is one of the most common deficiencies of the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation system. During the last decade, various cellular and animal models of CI deficiency have been presented involving mutations and/or deletion of the Ndufs4 gene, which encodes the NDUFS4 subunit of CI. In this review, we discuss these models and their validity for studying human CI deficiency. © 2013 IUBMB Life, 65(3):202–208, 2013
Microscopy of single FoF1‐ATP synthases— The unraveling of motors, gears, and controls
Authors: Börsch Michael
Published: February 2013

Optical microscopy of single F1‐ATPase and FoF1‐ATP synthases started 15 years ago. Direct demonstration of ATP‐driven subunit rotation by videomicroscopy became the new exciting tool to analyze the conformational changes of this enzyme during catalysis. Stimulated by these experiments, technical improvements for higher time resolution, better angular resolution, and reduced viscous drag were developed rapidly. Optics and single‐molecule enzymology were entangled to benefit both biochemists and microscopists. Today, several single‐molecule microscopy methods are established including controls for the precise nanomanipulation of individual enzymes in vitro. Förster resonance energy transfer, which has been used for simultaneous monitoring of conformational changes of different parts of this rotary motor, is one of them and may become the tool for the analysis of single FoF1‐ATP synthases in membranes of living cells. Here, breakthrough experiments are critically reviewed and challenges are discussed for the future microscopy of single ATP synthesizing enzymes at work. © 2013 IUBMB Life, 65(3):227–237, 2013
The More the Merrier? Working Towards Multidisciplinary Management of Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Comorbid Insomnia
Authors: Ong Jason C. , Crisostomo M. Isabel
Published: February 2013

Objectives

The goal of this article was to provide an overview of the diagnostic considerations, clinical features, pathophysiology, and treatment approaches for patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and comorbid insomnia.

Method

We begin with a review of the literature on OSA and comorbid insomnia. We then present a multidisciplinary approach using pulmonary and behavioral sleep medicine treatments.

Results

OSA and insomnia co‐occur at a high rate and such patients have distinct clinical features. Empirically supported treatments are available for OSA and insomnia independently but there are no standards or guidelines for how to implement these treatments for patients who suffer from both disorders.

Conclusions

Multidisciplinary treatment holds promise for patients with comorbid sleep disorders. Further research should be aimed at optimizing treatments and developing standards of practice for this population.
Changes in Early Maladaptive Schemas After Residential Treatment for Substance Use
Authors: Shorey Ryan C. , Stuart Gregory L. , Anderson Scott , Strong David R.
Published: February 2013

Objectives

Early maladaptive schemas are cognitive and behavioral patterns that cause considerable distress and are theorized to underlie mental health problems. Research suggests that early maladaptive schemas may underlie substance abuse and that the intensity of early maladaptive schemas may decrease after brief periods of abstinence. The current study examined changes in early maladaptive schemas after a 4‐week residential substance use treatment program.

Method

Preexisting records of a sample of male alcohol‐ and opioid‐dependent treatment seeking adults (N = 97; mean age = 42.55) were reviewed for the current study.

Results

Pre‐post analyses demonstrated that 8 of the early maladaptive schemas significantly decreased by the end of the 4‐week treatment.

Conclusions

Findings indicate that early maladaptive schemas can be modified during brief substance use treatment and may be an important component of substance use intervention programs. Implications of these findings for substance use treatment are discussed.
Numerical modeling of the impact of sea level rise on tidal basin morphodynamics
Authors: van der Wegen Mick
Published: February 2013

The morphod ynamic adaptation of estuaries to sea level fluctuations has been subject of geological studies based on sediment core analysis and qualitative modeling efforts. Limited attention has been paid to understanding bathymetric evolution based on a detailed process level. The current study aims to explore governing morphodynamic processes and timescales by application of a 2D, process‐based modeling approach. The starting point of the analysis is an 80 km long and 2.5 km wide basin. Starting from a sandy flat bed, stable channel‐shoal patterns emerge within a century under semidiurnal tidal forcing. We impose a gradual rise in sea level (up to 0.67 m per century) and compare the results with a run excluding sea level rise (SLR). Model results show that SLR drowns the basin so that intertidal area disappears. This process generates tidal asymmetry reflected by an emerging M4 tidal constituent. The basin shifts from exporting to importing sediment reflected by shoal patterns migrating in the landward direction. The landward sediment transport remains too limited to compensate for the loss in intertidal area and to restore equilibrium within a millennial time scale. Further sensitivity tests on initial bathymetry, tidal amplitude forcing, and rate of SLR show that shallow basins with limited tidal forcing are most vulnerable to SLR.
Sensitivity analysis of a process‐based ecosystem model: Pinpointing parameterization and structural issues
Authors: Pappas Christoforos , Fatichi Simone , Leuzinger Sebastian , Wolf Annett , Burlando Paolo
Published: February 2013

Dynamic vegetation models have been widely used for analyzing ecosystem dynamics and their interactions with climate. Their performance has been tested extensively against observations and by model intercomparison studies. In the present analysis, Lund‐Potsdam‐Jena General Ecosystem Simulator (LPJ‐GUESS), a state‐of‐the‐art ecosystem model, was evaluated by performing a global sensitivity analysis. The study aims at examining potential model limitations, particularly with regard to long‐term applications. A detailed sensitivity analysis based on variance decomposition is presented to investigate structural model assumptions and to highlight processes and parameters that cause the highest variability in the output. First‐ and total‐order sensitivity indices were calculated for selected parameters using Sobol's methodology. In order to elucidate the role of climate on model sensitivity, different climate forcings were used based on observations from Switzerland. The results clearly indicate a very high sensitivity of LPJ‐GUESS to photosynthetic parameters. Intrinsic quantum efficiency alone is able to explain about 60% of the variability in vegetation carbon fluxes and pools for a wide range of climate forcings. Processes related to light harvesting were also found to be important together with parameters affecting forest structure (growth, establishment, and mortality). The model shows minor sensitivity to hydrological and soil texture parameters, questioning its skills in representing spatial vegetation heterogeneity at regional or watershed scales. In the light of these results, we discuss the deficiencies of LPJ‐GUESS and possibly that of other, structurally similar, dynamic vegetation models and we highlight potential directions for further model improvements.
Profiling primaquine metabolites in primary human hepatocytes using UHPLC‐QTOF‐MS with 13C stable isotope labeling
Authors: Avula Bharathi , Tekwani Babu L. , Chaurasiya Narayan D. , Nanayakkara NP Dhammika , Wang Yan‐Hong , Khan Shabana I. , Adelli Vijender R. , Sahu Rajnish , Elsohly Mahmoud A. , McChesney James D. , Khan Ikhlas A. , Walker Larry A.
Published: February 2013

Therapeutic efficiency and hemolytic toxicity of primaquine (PQ), the only drug available for radical cure of relapsing vivax malaria are believed to be mediated by its metabolites. However, identification of these metabolites has remained a major challenge apparently due to low quantities and their reactive nature. Drug candidates labeled with stable isotopes afford convenient tools for tracking drug‐derived metabolites in complex matrices by liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS‐MS) and filtering for masses with twin peaks attributable to the label. This study was undertaken to identify metabolites of PQ from an in vitro incubation of a 1:1 w/w mixture of 13C6‐PQ/PQ with primary human hepatocytes. Acquity ultra‐performance LC (UHPLC) was integrated with QTOF‐MS to combine the efficiency of separation with high sensitivity, selectivity of detection and accurate mass determination. UHPLC retention time, twin mass peaks with difference of 6 (originating from 13C6‐PQ/PQ), and MS‐MS fragmentation pattern were used for phenotyping. Besides carboxy‐PQ (cPQ), formed by oxidative deamination of PQ to an aldehyde and subsequent oxidation, several other metabolites were identified: including PQ alcohol, predictably generated by oxidative deamination of PQ to an aldehyde and subsequent reduction, its acetate and the alcohol's glucuronide conjugate. Trace amounts of quinone‐imine metabolites of PQ and cPQ were also detected which may be generated by hydroxylation of the PQ/cPQ quinoline ring at the 5‐position and subsequent oxidation. These findings shed additional light on the human hepatic metabolism of PQ, and the method can be applied for identification of reactive PQ metabolites generated in vivo in preclinical and clinical studies. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Direct differentiation of A‐ring single attachment versus A‐ and D‐ring double attachment of phycoerythrobilin chromophores to phycobiliproteins using MALDI mass spectrometry
Authors: Nazim Boutaghou M. , Kronfel Christina M. , Hernandez Leanora S. , Biswas Avijit , Schluchter Wendy M. , Cole Richard B.
Published: February 2013

Bilin chromophore attachment to phycobiliproteins is an enzyme‐catalyzed post‐translational modification process. Bilin‐lyases attach a bilin chromophore to their cognate protein through a thioether bond between the chromophore and a cysteine moiety. Bilin chromophores are attached to their phycobiliproteins through the 31 carbon of the bilin. Double attachment may also occur, and in this case, carbons 31 and 181 of the bilin are both forming covalent linkages to cysteine moieties. There is a mass spectrometric limitation when examining tryptic peptides containing two (or more) cysteines if one seeks to ascertain whether chromopeptides are singly or doubly attached. The problem is that singly and doubly attached chromopeptides appear at the same m/z value; thus, up until the present, only NMR analysis has been successful at determining whether the chromophore is singly or doubly attached. We report in this work a new, fast and accurate method for discriminating singly from doubly attached chromophores using MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry. This method was developed from mass spectral analysis of chromopeptides that had undergone in vitro or in vivo attachment of bilin chromophores to phycobiliproteins. Distinction is based on a characteristic neutral loss that appears in the MALDI‐TOF mass spectrum only when the bilin is singly attached. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
First report and molecular characterization of hepatitis E virus infection in renal transplant recipients in Brazil
Authors: Passos Ana Maria , Heringer Tiago Pires , Medina‐Pestana José Osmar , Ferraz Maria Lucia Gomes , Granato Celso Francisco Hernandes
Published: February 2013

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) causes acute and chronic hepatitis in organ transplant recipients. Serological evidence for HEV infection has been discovered in various population groups in Brazil, and a single acute case has been confirmed. To date, however, no cases of HEV infection in immunocompromised patients have been reported in Brazil. This study aimed to identify and characterize hepatitis E cases in renal transplant recipients in Brazil. A retrospective study was performed on 96 serum samples from renal transplant recipients with unexplained liver enzymes elevation. Three confirmed cases of HEV infection were identified that lacked seroconversion to HEV IgG antibodies. The prevalence of HEV in these patients was 3.1%. Using a sequence analysis of a 304‐nucleotide fragment within ORF2, the strains were classified as genotype 3 with a low percent identity to previously characterized strains. This is the first report of hepatitis E infection in renal transplant recipients in Brazil, and the data indicate that a novel genotype 3 subvariant may be present and that further investigation is necessary to characterize the circulating HEV strains. In this setting, HEV infection should be considered as a potential cause of abnormal liver tests of unknown origin. J. Med. Virol. 85:615–619, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Snow variability in the Swiss Alps 1864–2009
Authors: Scherrer Simon C. , Wüthrich Christian , Croci‐Maspoli Mischa , Weingartner Rolf , Appenzeller Christof
Published: February 2013

We present a climate analysis of nine unique Swiss Alpine new snow series that have been newly digitized. The stations cover different altitudes (450–1860 m asl) and all time series cover more than 100 years (one from 1864 to 2009). In addition, data from 71 stations for the last 50–80 years for new snow and snow depth are analysed to get a more complete picture of the Swiss Alpine snow variability. Important snow climate indicators such as new snow sums (NSS), maximum new snow (MAXNS) and days with snowfall (DWSF) are calculated and variability and trends analysed. Series of days with snow pack (DWSP) ≥ 1 cm are reconstructed with useful quality for six stations using the daily new snow, local temperature and precipitation data. Our results reveal large decadal variability with phases of low and high values for NSS, DWSF and DWSP. For most stations NSS, DWSF and DWSP show the lowest values recorded and unprecedented negative trends in the late 1980s and 1990s. For MAXNS, however, no clear trends and smaller decadal variability are found but very large MAXNS values (>60 cm) are missing since the year 2000. The fraction of NSS and DWSP in different seasons (autumn, winter and spring) has changed only slightly over the ∼150 year record. Some decreases most likely attributable to temperature changes in the last 50 years are found for spring, especially for NSS at low stations. Both the NSS and DWSP snow indicators show a trend reversal in most recent years (since 2000), especially at low and medium altitudes. This is consistent with the recent ‘plateauing’ (i.e. slight relative decrease) of mean winter temperature in Switzerland and illustrates how important decadal variability is in understanding the trends in key snow indicators.
High‐resolution stimulated Raman spectroscopy and analysis of the ν1, 2ν1–ν1, ν2, 2ν2, and 3ν2–ν2 bands of CF4
Authors: Boudon V. , Bermejo D. , Martínez R. Z.
Published: February 2013

The spectra of the ν1, 2ν1–ν1, ν2, 2ν2, and 3ν2–ν2 bands of CF4 were obtained with a quasi‐continuous wave stimulated Raman spectrometer. These five bands were studied at a temperature of 135 and 300 K (for the hot bands). The spectrum of ν1 was obtained at a sample pressure of 2 mbar. For the spectra of the other regions, which are much weaker, higher pressures were used. The analysis has been performed thanks to the xtds and spview softwares developed in Dijon for such highly symmetric molecules. Combining the present results with a previous infrared study, we could determine a very accurate value for the C–F equilibrium bond length, i.e. re = 1.31588(6) Å. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Alveograph and Mixolab parameters associated with Puroindoline‐D1 genes in Chinese winter wheats
Authors: Chen Feng , Li Huanhuan , Li Xiangnan , Dong Zhongdong , Zuo Aihui , Shang Xiaoli , Cui Dangqun
Published: February 2013

Background

Grain texture is one of the most important characteristics of bread wheat and has a significant influence on end‐use qualities.

Results

Forty‐three Chinese cultivars were tested under three environments and used to characterise kernel hardness, Puroindoline‐D1 alleles and Alveograph and Mixolab parameters. The results indicated that SKCS hardness was positively correlated with Alveograph tenacity and P/L and Mixolab protein weakening (C2) and water absorption and negatively correlated with Mixolab starch gelatinisation (C3), amylasic activity (C4) and starch gelling (C5). Variance analysis showed that Puroindoline‐D1 had a significant impact on SKCS hardness and most Alveograph and Mixolab parameters. Furthermore, among three Puroindoline‐D1 genotypes, PINA‐null/Pinb‐D1a possessed the highest SKCS hardness, Alveograph tenacity and W and Mixolab stability and water absorption but the lowest Alveograph extensibility and G and Mixolab C3, C4 and C5. Pina‐D1a/Pinb‐D1a had the lowest SKCS hardness, Alveograph tenacity and W and Mixolab C2, water absorption and stability but the highest Alveograph extensibility and G and Mixolab C3, C4 and C5. Pina‐D1a/Pinb‐D1b possessed the lowest Mixolab C2 − C1, C3 − C2, C4 − C3 and C5 − C4.

Conclusion

Pina‐D1a/Pinb‐D1a was softer and had lower tenacity and water absorption. PINA‐null/Pinb‐D1a was harder and had higher tenacity and water absorption. Pina‐D1a/Pinb‐D1b had lower difference values among Mixolab parameters. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Relationship between fermentation index and other biochemical changes evaluated during the fermentation of Mexican cocoa (Theobroma cacao) beans
Authors: Romero‐Cortes Teresa , Salgado‐Cervantes Marco Antonio , García‐Alamilla Pedro , García‐Alvarado Miguel Angel , del C Rodríguez‐Jimenes Guadalupe , Hidalgo‐Morales Madeleine , Robles‐Olvera Víctor
Published: February 2013

Background

During traditional cocoa processing, the end of fermentation is empirically determined by the workers; consequently, a high variability on the quality of fermented cocoa beans is observed. Some physicochemical properties (such as fermentation index) have been used to measure the degree of fermentation and changes in quality, but only after the fermentation process has concluded, using dried cocoa beans. This would suggest that it is necessary to establish a relationship between the chemical changes inside the cocoa bean and the fermentation conditions during the fermentation in order to standardize the process.

Results

Cocoa beans were traditionally fermented inside wooden boxes, sampled every 24 h and analyzed to evaluate fermentation changes in complete bean, cotyledon and dried beans. The value of the fermentation index suggested as the minimal adequate (≥1) was observed at 72 h in all bean parts analyzed. At this time, values of pH, spectral absorption, total protein hydrolysis and vicilin‐class globulins of fermented beans suggested that they were well fermented.

Conclusion

Since no difference was found between the types of samples, the pH value could be used as a first indicator of the end of the fermentation and confirmed by evaluation of the fermentation index using undried samples, during the process. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of parboiling on the formation of resistant starch, digestibility and functional properties of rice flour from different varieties grown in Sri Lanka
Authors: Gunaratne Anil , Kao Wu , Ratnayaka Jennet , Collado Lilia , Corke Harold
Published: February 2013

Background

Hydrothermal treatment used in parboiling could induce formation of novel starch properties having potential food applications. In the current work, functional, digestible and retrogradation properties of flour from non‐parboiled and steamed parboiled six rice varieties with high amylose content of around 30% but differing in length and width ratio were investigated and compared.

Results

The parboiling process reduced swelling volume and amylose leaching in all tested varieties. Among the varieties studied, the resistant starch content ranged from 1.6% in AT 306 to 0.46% in BG 357. Parboiling reduced the resistant starch content in AT 306 by about 50%, but it did not significantly affect the resistant starch content of the other varieties. The amylose–lipid complex remained unchanged after parboiling. Amylopectin retrogradation was not observed in parboiled rice. Amylose retrogradation was not seen except for AT 306. Pasting behaviour of parboiled rice flours showed high pasting stability and low setback. Flours were more susceptible to enzymatic hydrolysis after parboiling. Partial gelatinisation during parboiling was sufficient to produce grains with excellent milling quality showing a head rice recovery that ranged from 98% to 100% among the varieties studied.

Conclusion

Degree of gelatinisation is the most important factor that determines the high head rice recovery. High pasting stability and low setback of flour of parboiled rice indicate some potential food applications. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Persistence of tree cavities used by cavity‐nesting vertebrates declines in harvested forests
Authors: Edworthy Amanda B. , Martin Kathy
Published: February 2013

An abundant supply of cavity‐bearing trees is important for maintaining wildlife communities in harvested forests. During harvesting, suitable trees and cavities are directly removed, and the longevity of cavities in retained trees may be reduced by increased exposure to wind and other disturbance factors. We examined patterns of cavity survival in retained trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides) trees in harvested stands compared with those in unharvested mature stands by monitoring the persistence of individual cavities. We followed 930 cavities in 3 harvest treatments for up to 17 years in pre‐cut and uncut forest, and up to 13 years post‐harvest (reserve patches and dispersed retention), in temperate‐mixed forests of interior British Columbia, Canada. Average annual cavity loss rates were 5.6% in pre‐cut and uncut forest, 7.2% for cavities in trees retained in reserves, and 8.1% for cavities in retained trees dispersed throughout cuts. Correspondingly, median cavity longevity was 15 years for cavities in pre‐cut and uncut forest, 10 years for cavities retained in reserves, and 9 years for those in dispersed retention. Risk of loss increased most for cavities in living trees (factor of 2.17), but we found no detectable difference for cavities in recently dead trees and trees with advanced decay. We suggest retention of a range of aspen size and decay classes to allow for future cavity‐tree recruitment in harvested stands. Inclusion of wildlife reserves as part of an overall forest management plan will also help to mitigate the effects of windthrow and maintain long‐lived cavity resources required by a large portion of forest wildlife. © 2013 The Wildlife Society
Current practice patterns for sleep‐disordered breathing in children
Authors: Friedman Norman R. , Perkins Jonathan N. , McNair Bryan , Mitchell Ron B.
Published: February 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Since the primary therapy for children with sleep‐disordered breathing(SDB) is adenotonsillectomy, a survey was developed to determine the current practice patterns for children with SDB by pediatric otolaryngologists.

Study design:

Cross‐sectional survey

Methods:

An Internet‐based survey was sent to all American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology members. In addition to descriptive statistics, a logistic regression was performed to assess if years in practice, polysomnogram (PSG) wait time, or frequency of evaluating snoring children changes management.

Results:

The response rate was 39% (135/345). Children with SDB were “most of the time” referred for PSGs by 4% of respondents. Sixty‐five percent referred for PSG “sometimes,” and 31% referred “rarely” or “never.” An increased wait time was a significant predictor of PSG frequency (OR = 1.10, 95% CI: 0.92–1.0, P = 0.039). Children with Down syndrome or obesity had preoperative PSG requested “always” 20% and 8% of the time. The primary reason for requesting a PSG in a normal child was inconsistent clinical evaluation (58%). To diagnose obesity, most (72%) record height and weight, but only 34% record BMI% for age. Overnight observation was performed “most of the time” for the following groups: Obese (70%), Down syndrome (83%), and <3 years (83%).

Conclusions:

Pediatric otolaryngologists are noncompliant with the 2002 American Academy of Pediatrics and the 2011 American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery guidelines. Despite noncompliance, they fortunately have a lower threshold to monitor high‐risk children overnight following surgery. The recommended Center for Disease Control measures to diagnose childhood obesity occasionally are being utilized. An educational campaign is necessary to update clinicians who take care of children on the new evidence‐based guidelines.
Blood levels ofTNF‐α,IL‐10, andIL‐12in idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss
Authors: Demirhan Erhan , Eskut Neslihan Purdas , Zorlu Yasar , Cukurova Ibrahim , Tuna Gamze , Kirkali Fatos Guldal
Published: February 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To investigate the blood levels of TNF‐α, IL‐10, and IL‐12 in the idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss patients, and the change of these cytokine levels after treatment.

Study Design

Prospective clinical trial.

Methods

Twenty‐three patients with idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss and 20 healthy people were selected as study and control groups. Blood samples for TNF‐α, IL‐10, and IL‐12 were taken before treatment and 6 weeks after treatment. The study group was given combined treatment including dexamethasone, heparin, pentoxifyline, vitamin B1, and B6 for 10 days, and was divided into two groups: treatment responders and treatment nonresponders. The treatment responders group was also divided into three groups according to most accepted criteria for improvement in the literature. Audiograms were taken before treatment and 6 weeks after treatment to determine the response to the treatment.

Results

There was no significant difference between pre‐ and posttreatment values of IL‐10 and IL‐12 in all study groups (P> 0.05). There was also no significant difference between pre‐ and posttreatment values of TNF‐α in treatment responders (P> 0.05). Treatment nonresponders had more elevated posttreatment values of TNF‐α than pretreatment values (P< 0.05).

Conclusion

IL‐10 and IL‐12 may not play a critical role in idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss. But our data supports the role of TNF‐α in the pathophysiology of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss, and TNF‐α receptor blockers may have benefits in these patients.

Level of Evidence

3B.Laryngoscope, 2013