bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of the SOS/umu test and high‐content in vitro micronucleus test to determine genotoxicity and cytotoxicity of nine benzothiazoles
Authors: Ye Yan , Weiwei Jiang , Na Li , Mei Ma , Kaifeng Rao , Zijian Wang
Published: January 2014

Benzothiazole and benzothiazole derivatives (BTs) have been detected in various environmental matrices as well as in human beings, but little is currently available regarding their toxicities. In our study, genotoxicities of nine BTs (benzothiazole [BT], 2‐chlorobenzothiazole [CBT], 2‐bromobenzothiazole [BrBT], 2‐fluorobenzothiazole [FBT], 2‐methylbenzothiazole [MeBT], 2‐mercaptobenzothiazole [MBT], 2‐aminobenzothiazole [ABT], 2‐hydroxy‐benzothiazole [OHBT] and 2‐methythiobenzothiazole [MTBT]) are comprehensively evaluated by the SOS/umu test using the bacterial Salmonella typhimurium TA1535/pSK1002 for DNA‐damaging effect and the high content in vitro micronucleus test using two human carcinoma cells (MGC‐803 and A549) for chromosome‐damaging effect. The cytotoxicity of BTs on both bacteria and two human cells was also evaluated. Except for the cytotoxic effect of MBT on MGC‐803 and A549, the other tested BTs showed more than 50% cytotoxicity at their highest concentrations in a dose‐dependent manner, and their LC50s ranged from 19 (MBT in bacteria) to 270 mg l–1 (CBT in A549). Activation and inactivation were observed for specific BTs after metabolism. On the other hand, no evidence of genotoxicity was obtained for BT, FBT and MBT, and DNA damage was induced by ABT, OHBT, BrBT and MTBT in MGC‐803, by MeBT in A549 and by CBT in both cells. Through quantitative structure–activity relationship analysis, two structure alerts for chemical genotoxicity, including heterocyclic amine and hacceptor‐path3‐hacceptor are present in ABT and OHBT respectively; however, the underlying mechanisms still need further evaluation. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Absence of mature microRNAs inactivates the response of gene expression to carcinogenesis induced by N‐ethyl‐N‐nitrosourea in mouse liver
Authors: Luan Yang , Qi Xinming , Xu Liang , Ren Jin , Chen Tao
Published: January 2014

This study aims to evaluate the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in chemical tumorigenesis by evaluating genomic gene expression in miRNA knockout mice. Previous studies showed that mice without mature miRNAs due to hepatocyte‐specific Dicer1 knockout (KO) had a much higher liver tumor incidence than wild‐type mice. In this study, Dicer1 KO or the wild‐type mice were treated intraperitoneally with genotoxic carcinogen N‐ethyl‐N‐nitrosourea (ENU) at a single dose (150 mg kg–1 that resulted in liver tumorigenesis) or the vehicle at 3 weeks of age. The animals were killed 2 weeks after treatment and the liver samples were collected for the gene expression study. Principal components analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis showed that gene expression was globally altered by the Dicer1 KO and ENU exposure. There were 5621, 3286 and 2565 differentially expressed genes for Dicer1 disruption, ENU treatment in wild‐type mice and ENU treatment in Dicer1 KO mice, respectively. Functional analysis of the differentially expressed genes suggests that the Dicer1 KO mouse liver lost their capability to suppress the carcinogenesis induced by ENU exposure in genomic level. In addition, the miRNA‐mediated BRCA1 and P53 signaling pathways were identified as the main pathways responsible for the tumorigenesis. We conclude that the mouse livers in the absence of mature miRNAs could not appropriately respond to carcinogenic insults from ENU treatment, indicating that miRNAs play a critical role in chemical carcinogenesis. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Establishment of a short‐term, in vivo screening method for detecting chemicals with juvenile hormone activity using adult Daphnia magna
Authors: Abe Ryoko , Watanabe Haruna , Yamamuro Masumi , Iguchi Taisen , Tatarazako Norihisa
Published: January 2014

Juvenile hormone (JH) and JH agonists have been shown to induce male offspring production in various daphnids, including Daphnia magna using OECD TG211. The critical period (about 1h) for JH action on ova in the parent's ovary to induce male offspring is existing at 7‐8h later from ovulation. Therefore, we considered that adult D. magna could be used to produce a short‐term screening method for detecting JH analogs. Using this method, we successfully demonstrated male offspring induction in the second broods after exposure to JH or JH agonists. After investigating the exposure time, the number of repetitions and the exposure concentration, we established a short‐term, in vivo screening method for detecting JH analogs using adult D. magna. We examined positive and negative control chemicals using a previously developed method and verified the validity of our new testing method. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of cylindrospermopsin on a common carp leucocyte cell line
Authors: Sieroslawska Anna , Rymuszka Anna
Published: January 2014

Cylindrospermopsin (CYN) is a cytotoxin produced by different cyanobacterial species, increasingly detected in water reservoirs worldwide. There is very little information available concerning the effects of the toxin on fish immune cells. The aim of the study was to elucidate the potential impact of cylindrospermopsin on the selected parameters of a common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) leucocyte cell line (CLC). The cells were incubated with the cyanotoxin at concentrations of 10, 1 or 0.1 µg ml–1 for up to 48 h. Cell viability and proliferation, apoptosis/necrosis induction, cell morphology and phagocytic activity were determined. The two higher toxin concentrations occurred to be evidently cytotoxic in a time‐dependent manner and influenced all studied parameters. The lowest used concentration had no effects on cell viability and cell number; however, a strong reduction of bacteria uptake after 24‐h exposure was detected. The obtained results indicate that cylindrospermopsin may interfere with the basic functions of fish phagocytic cells and as a consequence influence the fish immunity. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adenosine Regulates the Proinflammatory Signaling Function of Thrombin in Endothelial Cells
Authors: Hassanian Seyed Mahdi , Dinarvand Peyman , Rezaie Alireza R.
Published: January 2014

The plasma level of the regulatory metabolite adenosine increases during the activation of coagulation and inflammation. Here we investigated the effect of adenosine on modulation of thrombin‐mediated proinflammatory responses in HUVECs. We found that adenosine inhibits the barrier‐disruptive effect of thrombin in HUVECs by a concentration‐dependent manner. Analysis of cell surface expression of adenosine receptors revealed that A2A and A2B are expressed at the highest level among the four receptor subtypes (A2B > A2A > A1 > A3) on HUVECs. The barrier‐protective effect of adenosine in response to thrombin was recapitulated by the A2A specific agonist, CGS 21680, and abrogated both by the siRNA knockdown of the A2A receptor and by the A2A‐specific antagonists, ZM‐241385 and SCH‐58261. The thrombin‐induced RhoA activation and its membrane translocation were both inhibited by adenosine in a cAMP‐dependent manner, providing a molecular mechanism through which adenosine exerts a barrier‐protective function. Adenosine also inhibited thrombin‐mediated activation of NF‐κB and decreased adhesion of monocytic THP‐1 cells to stimulated HUVECs via down‐regulation of expression of cell surface adhesion molecules, VCAM‐1, ICAM‐1, and E‐selectin. Moreover, adenosine inhibited thrombin‐induced elevated expression of proinflammatory cytokines, IL‐6 and HMGB‐1; and chemokines, MCP‐1, CXCL‐1, and CXCL‐3. Taken together, these results suggest that adenosine may inhibit thrombin‐mediated proinflammatory signaling responses, thereby protecting the endothelium from injury during activation of coagulation and inflammation. J. Cell. Physiol. 229: 1292–1300, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A novel autofocusing method using the angle of hilbert space for microscopy
Authors: Tan Zuojun , Sun Dehui , Xie Jing , Chen Lu , Li Liang
Published: January 2014

Autofocusing technology is indispensable for routine use of microscopes on a large scale in biological field. The autofocusing method using the angle of Hilbert space is brought forward to measure whether the image is focused or not. The angle of Hillbert space can be used to evaluate accurately the similarity degree of two images. The experiment results show that the autofocusing method can decrease the computational cost and get accuracy for real‐time biological and biomedical images with noise robustness. The focus curves are smooth and possess the unimodality, the monotonicity and the symmetry. Compared with other classic and optimum focus method, the Hilbert method demonstrates its robustness to noise and can improve the focus speed. The experiments showed that the proposed method can increase the overall performance of an autofocus system and has strong applicability in various autofocusing algorithms. Microsc. Res. Tech. 77:289–295, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cadmium contaminated soil affects retinogenesis in lizard embryos
Authors: Simoniello Palma , Trinchella Francesca , Filosa Silvana , Scudiero Rosaria , Magnani Dario , Theil Thomas , Motta Chiara Maria
Published: January 2014

Lizards are soil surface animals that represent an important link between invertebrates and higher predators. Being part of wild fauna, they can be affected by contamination from anthropic activities and in particular, pesticides and chemical substances of various nature that reach the soil surface directly or through fall out. Among these substances, heavy metals such as cadmium may exert particularly marked toxic effect on both adult and embryos. In lizards, recent studies show that cadmium may cause developmental defects, including alteration of eye development, with appearance of unilateral microphthalmia and retinal folding. In the present study, the effects of cadmium incubation on retinal development were investigated demonstrating that cadmium interferes with cell cycle regulation by increasing proliferation. An increased expression of Otx2 and Pax6 genes, markers of retinal differentiation, was also found. However, the cellular localization of Pax6 and Otx2 transcripts did not change in treated embryos: in the early stages of retinogenesis, the two genes were expressed in all retinal cells; in the differentiated retina, Otx2 remained in the cellular bodies of retinal cells forming the nuclear and the ganglion layers, whereas Pax6 was expressed only in the cells of the inner nuclear and the ganglion layers. Data suggest that the increased expression of Pax6 and Otx2 could be ascribed to the hyperproliferation of retinal cells rather than to an effective gene overexpression. J. Exp. Zool. 321A: 207–219, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Another one bites the dust: Bite force and ecology in three caviomorph rodents (Rodentia, Hystricognathi)
Authors: Becerra Federico , Echeverría Alejandra Isabel , Casinos Adrià , Vassallo Aldo Iván
Published: January 2014

Mammals have developed sophisticated strategies adapting to particular locomotor modes, feeding habits, and social interactions. Many rodent species have acquired a fossorial, semi‐fossorial, or even subterranean life‐style, converging on morphological, anatomical, and ecological features but diverging in the final arrangement. These ecological variations partially depend on the functional morphology of their digging tools. Muscular and mechanical features (e.g., lever arms relationship) of the bite force were analyzed in three caviomorph rodents with similar body size but different habits and ecological demands of the jaws. In vivo forces were measured at incisors' tip using a strain gauge load cell force transducer whereas theoretical maximal performance values, mechanical advantages, and particular contribution of each adductor muscle were estimated from dissections in specimens of Ctenomys australis (subterranean, solitary), Octodon degus (semi‐fossorial, social), and Chinchilla laniger (ground‐dweller, colonial). Our results showed that C. australis bites stronger than expected given its small size and C. laniger exhibited the opposite outcome, while O. degus is close to the expected value based on mammalian bite force versus body mass regressions; what might be associated to the chisel‐tooth digging behavior and social interactions. Our key finding was that no matter how diverse these rodents' skulls were, no difference was found in the mechanical advantage of the main adductor muscles. Therefore, interspecific differences in the bite force might be primarily due to differences in the muscular development and force, as shown for the subterranean, solitary and territorial C. australis versus the more gracile, ground‐dweller, and colonial C. laniger. J. Exp. Zool. 321A: 220–232, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Beta‐thymosin gene polymorphism associated with freshwater invasiveness of alewife (Alosa pseudoharengus)
Authors: Michalak Katarzyna , Czesny Sergiusz , Epifanio John , Snyder Randal J. , Schultz Eric T. , Velotta Jonathan P. , McCormick Stephen D. , Brown Bonnie L. , Santopietro Graciela , Michalak Pawel
Published: January 2014

Predicting the success of a species' colonization into a novel environment is routinely considered to be predicated on niche‐space similarity and vacancy, as well as propagule pressure. The role genomic variation plays in colonization success (and the interaction with environment) may be suggested, but has not rigorously been documented. To test an hypothesis that previously observed ecotype‐specific polymorphisms between anadromous and landlocked alewife (Alosa pseudoharengus) populations are an adaptive response to osmoregulatory challenges rather than a result of allele sampling at founding, we examined multiple anadromous and landlocked (colonized) populations for their allelic profiles at a conserved region (3′‐UTR end) of a β‐thymosin gene whose protein product plays a central role in the organization of cytoskeleton. The putatively ancestral β‐thymosin allele was prevalent in anadromous populations, whereas a newly derived allele was overrepresented in landlocked populations; a third allele was exclusive to the anadromous populations. We also conducted a complementary set of salinity exposure experiments to test osmoregulatory performance of the alewife ecotypes in contrasting saline environments. The pattern of variation and results from these challenges indicate a strong association of β‐thymosin with colonization success and a transition from species with an anadromous life history to one with only a freshwater component. J. Exp. Zool. 321A: 233–240, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A tetrapod‐like repertoire of innate immune receptors and effectors for coelacanths
Authors: Boudinot Pierre , Zou Jun , Ota Tatsuya , Buonocore Francesco , Scapigliati Giuseppe , Canapa Adriana , Cannon John , Litman Gary , Hansen John D.
Published: January 2014

The recent availability of both robust transcriptome and genome resources for coelacanth (Latimeria chalumnae) has led to unique discoveries for coelacanth immunity such as the lack of IgM, a central component of adaptive immunity. This study was designed to more precisely address the origins and evolution of gene families involved in the initial recognition and response to microbial pathogens, which effect innate immunity. Several multigene families involved in innate immunity are addressed, including: Toll‐like receptors (TLRs), retinoic acid inducible gene 1 (RIG1)‐like receptors (RLRs), the nucleotide‐binding domain and leucine‐rich repeat containing proteins (NLRs), diverse immunoglobulin domain‐containing proteins (DICP) and modular domain immune‐type receptors (MDIRs). Our analyses also include the tripartite motif‐containing proteins (TRIM), which are involved in pathogen recognition as well as the positive regulation of antiviral immunity. Finally, this study addressed some of the downstream effectors of the antimicrobial response including IL‐1 family members, type I and II interferons (IFN) and IFN‐stimulated effectors (ISGs). Collectively, the genes and gene families in coelacanth that effect innate immune functions share characteristics both in content, structure and arrangement with those found in tetrapods but not in teleosts. The findings support the sister group relationship of coelacanth fish with tetrapods. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 322B: 415–437, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis of Pyrimidine, Dihydropyrimidinone, and Dihydroimidazole Derivatives under Free Solvent Conditions and Their Antibacterial Evaluation
Authors: Soliman Ahmed M. , Mohamed Shaaban K. , El‐Remaily Mahmoud. Abd El Aleem. Ali. Ali. , Abdel‐Ghany H.
Published: January 2014

The biologically active compounds of pyrimidine, dihydropyrimidinone, and dihydroimidazole have been synthesized in excellent yield under free solvent conditions. The antibacterial evaluation of the products showed a high inhibitory effect. Reaction of 2‐guanidinobenzothiazole with several active methylene compounds has revealed formation of the corresponding pyrimidine, dihydropyrimidinone, and dihydroimidazole derivatives under free solvent conditions in very good yield. All compounds have been characterized on the basis of IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, mass spectrometry, and X‐ray.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Antimicrobial Screening of Ethylene‐Spaced Bis‐heterocycles
Authors: Babul Reddy A. , Hymavathi R. V. , Narayana Swamy G.
Published: January 2014

A new class of ethylene‐spaced bis‐heterocycles that was synthesized in a simple and efficient method from the one‐pot, three‐component reaction of amine2, propargyl halide3, and indolyl azide1in water is described. The identities of these compounds were confirmed following elemental analysis, IR,1H,13C NMR, and mass spectral studies. All the title compounds exhibited pronouncedin vitroantibacterial and antifungal activities.
A Novel and Efficient Synthetic Method of Benzo[f]chromen‐1‐ones and Phenyl‐4H‐chromen‐4‐one through Photooxidative Cyclization of 6‐[(E)‐2‐Arylvinyl]‐4H‐pyran‐4‐ones and 6‐[(1E,3E)‐4‐Phenylbuta‐1,3‐dien‐1‐yl]‐4H‐pyran‐4‐one
Authors: Aït‐Baziz Nabila , Hamdi Safouane M. , Silva Artur M. S. , Rachedi Yahia , Hamdi Maamar , Trari Mohamed
Published: January 2014

A rapid and efficient microwave‐assisted transformation of 2‐pyrones into 4‐pyrones is reported. Then, a new photocatalytic oxidative cyclization of 6‐[(E)‐2‐arylvinyl]‐2‐methyl‐4H‐pyran‐4‐ones and 2‐methyl‐6‐[(1E,3E)‐4‐phenylbuta‐1,3‐dien‐1‐yl]‐4H‐pyran‐4‐one with UV light in the presence of a catalytic amount of CuAlO2 is described. We obtained new 3‐methyl‐1H‐benzo[f]chromen‐1‐ones and 2‐methyl‐5‐phenyl‐4H‐chromen‐4‐one that were fully characterized by spectroscopic techniques.
Ultrasound Assisted NucleophilicCyclization of Tetrafluoroterephthalonitrile: An Efficient Way to Fluorine‐Containing Heterocycles
Authors: Wang Liang , Chen Ting , Chen Sheng‐Chun , Chen Qun , He Ming‐Yang
Published: January 2014

A simple and efficient synthesis of fluorine‐containing heterocycles via SNAr reaction of tetrafluoroterephthalonitrile with various nucleophiles assisted by ultrasound has been developed. The reaction proceeded smoothly at room temperature within 5 min to afford mono‐substituted heterocycles in moderate to good yields.
Conjugates with an Antimicrobial Effect Based on New Derivatives of Mercaptobenzoxazole Esterified onto Poly(maleic anhydride‐alt‐vinyl acetate)
Authors: Aparaschivei Radita , Şunel Valeriu , Popa Marcel , Desbrieres Jacques
Published: January 2014

New compounds with biological activity based on hydroxy‐amino derivatives of benzoxazolyl‐2‐mercaptoformic acid, benzoxazolyl‐2‐mercaptoacetic acid, and chloracetyl‐2‐mercaptobenzoxazole have been synthesized. The chemical bonding of these compounds to poly(maleic anhydride‐alt‐vinyl acetate), through esterification, leads in obtaining conjugates of polymer biologically active compound type, tests indicating a sustained release of the active chemical, with time (between 5 and 6 h). Reaction products were characterized through elemental and spectral analysis (FTIR and 1H NMR). Toxicology and antimicrobial activity tests recommend compounds with small molecule, as well as their conjugates as therapeutical candidates (antimicrobial inhibitors) for pharmacological application.
Synthesis and Characterization of γ‐Heteroaryl‐substituted Pentamethine Cyanine Dyes with Carboxy or Methoxycarbonyl Substituents at the Two Heterocyclic End Groups
Authors: Mehranpour A. M. , Hashemnia S. , Azamifar F.
Published: January 2014

Seven novel pentamethine cyanine dyes with 3,5‐dimethylpyridinium‐1‐yl, pyridinium‐1‐yl, and 1‐quinolinum‐1‐yl substituents in the γ position of the methine chain containing ester or carboxylic acid groups in the ring of the dyes were synthesized via a three‐step procedure. The visible spectral behavior of the pentamethine cyanine dyes was examined in DMSO. Elemental analysis, IR, 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, and mass spectral (MS) data confirmed the molecular structure of the newly synthesized compounds.
MRI at 7 tesla and above: Demonstrated and potential capabilities
Authors: Kraff Oliver , Fischer Anja , Nagel Armin M. , Mönninghoff Christoph , Ladd Mark E.
Published: January 2014

With more than 40 installed MR systems worldwide operating at 7 Tesla or higher, ultra‐high‐field (UHF) imaging has been established as a platform for clinically oriented research in recent years. Along with technical developments that, in part, have also been successfully transferred to lower field strengths, MR imaging and spectroscopy at UHF have demonstrated capabilities and potentials for clinical diagnostics in a variety of studies. In terms of applications, this overview article focuses on already achieved advantages for in vivo imaging, i.e., in imaging the brain and joints of the musculoskeletal system, but also considers developments in body imaging, which is particularly challenging. Furthermore, new applications for clinical diagnostics such as X‐nuclei imaging and spectroscopy, which only really become feasible at ultra‐high magnetic fields, will be presented. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;41:13–33. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Alteration of select gene expression patterns in individuals infected with HIV‐1
Authors: Serrao Erik , Wang Chia‐Hao , Frederick Toinette , Lee Chi‐Lin , Anthony Patricia , Arribas‐Layton David , Baker Kerry , Millstein Joshua , Kovacs Andrea , Neamati Nouri
Published: January 2014

Multiple human proteins have been shown to both support and restrict viral replication, and confirmation of virus‐associated changes in the expression of these genes is relevant for future therapeutic efforts. In this study a well‐characterized panel of 49 individuals either infected with HIV‐1 or uninfected was compiled and analyzed for the effect of HIV infection status, viral load, and antiretroviral treatment on specific gene expression. mRNA was extracted and reverse transcribed from purified CD4+ cells, and quantitative real‐time PCR was utilized to scrutinize differences in the expression of four host genes that have been demonstrated to either stimulate (HSP90 and LEDGF/p75) or restrict (p21/WAF1 and APOBEC3G) proviral integration. HIV infection status was associated with slight to moderate alterations in the expression of all four genes. After adjusting for age, mRNA expression levels of HSP90, LEDGF/p75 and APOBEC3G were found to all be decreased in infected patients compared to healthy controls by 1.43‐, 1.26‐, and 4.71‐fold, respectively, while p21/WAF1 expression was increased 2.35‐fold. Furthermore, individuals receiving raltegravir exhibited a 1.28‐fold reduction in LEDGF/p75 compared to those on non‐raltegravir antiretroviral treatment. Identification of these and similar HIV‐induced changes in gene expression may be valuable for delineating the extent of host cell molecular mechanisms stimulating viral replication. J. Med. Virol. 86:678–686, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fast simulation of alternating magnetic fields around a crack in a pipeline system using a dipole model method
Authors: Le Minhhuy , Kim Jungmin , Vu Hoanghai , Shin Kisu , Lee Jinyi
Published: January 2014

This study proposes a method for the fast simulation of the distribution of alternating magnetic fields around internal cracks as well as cracks on the inner and outer diameter surfaces of a pipe. This method, which uses a bobbin‐type magnetic camera to inspect cracks in small‐bore piping systems, is based on a dipole model, allowing for the rapid calculation and storage of data on the distribution of alternating magnetic fields around cracks from a sensor moving inside a pipe. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thorough investigation of the oxygen heterocyclic fraction of lime (Citrus aurantifolia (Christm.) Swingle) juice
Authors: Costa Rosaria , Russo Marina , De Grazia Selenia , Grasso Elisa , Dugo Paola , Mondello Luigi
Published: January 2014

Reversed‐phase‐HPLC analysis by means of superficially porous silica particle columns (fused‐core) was applied to the investigation of flavonoids, coumarins, and psoralens in lime juice samples. Hesperidin (367.0 ± 16.0 ppm) and eriocitrin (148.0 ± 7.9 ppm) were the most abundant flavonoids. Fifteen coumarins and furocoumarins were determined, including bergamottin (29.6 ± 1.1 ppm), 5‐geranyloxy‐7‐methoxycoumarin (16.5 ± 0.6 ppm), and oxypeucedanin hydrate (9.9 ± 0.5 ppm) as predominant compounds. These molecules are today well known for their beneficial effects on human health. As a consequence, the present study, beyond investigating for the first time the chemical composition of lime juice, highlights also its health‐promoting qualities, due to its content of flavonoids and coumarins.
Silver‐coated monolithic columns for separation in radiopharmaceutical applications
Authors: Sedlacek Ondrej , Kucka Jan , Svec Frantisek , Hruby Martin
Published: January 2014

In this study, we demonstrate the preparation of a macroporous monolithic column containing anchored silver nanoparticles and its use for the elimination of excess radioiodine from the radiolabeled pharmaceutical. The poly(glycidyl methacrylate‐co‐ethylene dimethacrylate) monolith was first functionalized with cystamine and the free thiol groups liberated by reaction with borohydride. In‐house‐prepared silver nanoparticles were then attached by interaction with the surface thiols. The deiodization process was demonstrated with the commonly used radiopharmaceutical m‐iodobenzylguanidine labeled with radionuclide iodine‐125.
Simultaneous determination of dyes in wines by HPLC coupled to quadrupole orbitrap mass spectrometry
Authors: Jia Wei , Chu Xiaogang , Ling Yun , Huang Junrong , Lin Yuanhui , Chang James
Published: January 2014

A new method combining the QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe) method with ultra high performance liquid chromatography and ESI quadrupole Orbitrap high‐resolution MS was developed for the highly accurate and sensitive screening of 69 dyes in wines. Response surface methodology was employed to optimize the QuEChERS sample preparation method for the determination of 69 different analytes in wines for the first time. After optimization, the maximum predicted recovery was 99.48% rate for canacert indigo carmine under the optimized conditions of 10 mL acetonitrile, 1.45 g sodium acetate, 107 mg primary secondary amine, and 96 mg C18. For the matrices studied, the recovery rates of the other 68 compounds ranged from 87.2–107.4%, with coefficient of variation < 6.4%. The mass accuracy typically obtained is routinely better than 1.6 ppm and only needed to be calibrated once a week. The LODs for the analytes are in the range 1–1000 μg/kg. This method has been successfully applied on screening of dyes in commercial wines, and it is very useful for the fast screening of different food additives.
Management regime influences shrubland birds and habitat conditions in the Northern Appalachians, USA
Authors: Smetzer Jennifer R. , King David I. , Schlossberg Scott
Published: January 2014

Population declines of birds that breed in early‐successional shrubland habitat are of great concern to conservationists throughout the northeastern United States. To help increase the efficiency and effectiveness of efforts to conserve these species and their habitats, we studied birds in temporary forest openings created through even‐aged timber harvest, and permanent wildlife openings maintained through mechanical treatment and prescribed burning in the Northern Appalachians, USA in 2010 and 2011. We assessed the effects of treatment method, time since last treatment, and retained tree cover on shrubland bird abundance and habitat conditions. Burned and mechanically treated wildlife openings differed only in grass and fern cover. Both types of wildlife openings had more grasses and forbs, and less bare ground than silvicultural openings. Six out of 8 focal bird species were less abundant in silvicultural openings than in wildlife openings. In contrast, abundance of only 1 species differed between burned and mechanically treated wildlife openings. Silvicultural openings supported the same species as wildlife openings, indicating that this management option could be used in place of more costly wildlife opening management. However, because birds were more abundant in wildlife openings, maintaining the current population size of shrubland birds under a management strategy based entirely on silviculture would require a 50–300% increase in the area of silvicultural openings, depending on the species. Individual species peaked in abundance at different times post treatment, indicating that managers must maintain a range of early‐successional conditions across the landscape to provide habitat for the entire suite of shrubland birds. Six species exhibited a negative relationship with the basal area of retained conifer cover, and 7 species with deciduous tree cover, indicating that the retention of overstory trees in openings reduced their utility to early‐successional birds. © 2014 The Wildlife Society, 2014.
Statin therapy is associated with the development of new-onset diabetes after transplantation in liver recipients with high fasting plasma glucose levels
Authors: Cho Yongin , Lee Min Jung , Choe Eun Yeong , Jung Chang Hee , Joo Dong Jin , Kim Myoung Soo , Cha Bong Soo , Park Joong-Yeol , Kang Eun Seok
Published: January 2014

New-onset diabetes after transplantation (NODAT) and dyslipidemia are important metabolic complications after liver transplantation (LT) that can adversely affect both allograft and patient survival. Statins are used as first-line therapies for dyslipidemia because of their effectiveness and safety profile. However, it has recently been reported that statin therapy is associated with new-onset diabetes in the nontransplant population. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between statin therapy and the development of NODAT in LT recipients. Three hundred sixty-four LT recipients who underwent transplantation between the ages of 20 and 75 years without a previous history of diabetes were enrolled in this study. We evaluated the incidence of NODAT with respect to statin use as well as other risk factors. The incidence of NODAT was significantly higher in the statin group (31.7%) versus the control group (17.6%, P = 0.03). The mean follow-up period was 37.8 ± 19.0 months for the statin group and 42.7 ± 16.0 months for the control group (P = 0.07). Statin use was significantly associated with NODAT development after adjustments for other risk factors [hazard ratio (HR) = 2.32, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.23-4.39, P = 0.01]. Impaired fasting glucose before transplantation was also a risk factor for NODAT development (HR = 2.21, 95% CI = 1.36-3.62, P = 0.001). There were no significant differences in age, body mass index, cumulative corticosteroid dose, or fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels between the groups. Patients with high FPG levels were more likely to develop NODAT when they were placed on statins after LT (P = 0.002). In conclusion, statin treatment could contribute to the development of NODAT in LT recipients, especially if they have high baseline FPG levels. Liver Transpl 20:557–563, 2014. © 2014 AASLD.
Networks Based on Poly(α‐methylene‐δ‐valerolactone‐co‐δ‐valerolactone): Crosslinking Through Free‐Radical Vinyl Copolymerization
Authors: Stöhr Olesja , Ritter Helmut
Published: January 2014

Unsaturated polyesters are synthesized via ring‐opening copolymerization of α‐methylene‐δ‐valerolactone and δ‐valerolactone. These polyesters 4a–c are mixed with ethyl methacrylate (EMA), 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), and α‐methylene‐δ‐valerolactone (α‐MVL), respectively. Then, crosslinking is carried out by free radical polymerization initiated by an azo‐initiator. A second glass transition is found with incorporation of HEMA and α‐MVL. These findings indicate the formation of phase‐separated polyester blocks crosslinked with the poly(meth)‐acrylic‐segments, respectively poly(α‐methylene‐δ‐valerolactone) segments.

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Diblock Copolymers with Miscible Blocks via One‐Pot Sequential Cationic Polymerization and Their Block‐Length‐Dependent Vesicular Aggregation
Authors: Banerjee Sanjib , Maji Tanmoy , Paira Tapas K. , Mandal Tarun K.
Published: January 2014

A series of well‐defined poly(α‐methylstyrene)‐block‐poly(isobutyl vinyl ether) (PMS‐b‐PIBVE) diblock copolymers of varying compositions is synthesized via sequential cationic polymerization using an FeCl3‐based initiating system at 0 °C. The copolymers exhibit a single glass transition temperature (Tg). The Tg vs. composition relationships for the copolymers show positive deviation from a linear relationship, which is explained by the Kwei equation. The copolymer (PMS35‐b‐PIBVE145 and PMS60‐b‐PIBVE128) molecules self‐aggregate to form vesicles in organic solvents. However, the copolymers (PMS83‐b‐PIBVE94, PMS107‐b‐PIBVE52, and PMS129‐b‐PIBVE32) with higher rigid PMS contents do not form vesicles. PMS35‐b‐PIBVE145 vesicles can encapsulate hydrophobic and hydrophilic fluorescent macromolecules.

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A voxel‐based morphometry and diffusion tensor imaging analysis of asymptomatic Parkinson's disease‐related G2019S LRRK2 mutation carriers
Authors: Thaler Avner , Artzi Moran , Mirelman Anat , Jacob Yael , Helmich Rick C. , van Nuenen Bart F.L. , Gurevich Tanya , Orr‐Urtreger Avi , Marder Karen , Bressman Susan , Bloem Bastiaan R. , Hendler Talma , Giladi Nir , Ben Bashat Dafna ,   the LRRK2 Ashkenazi Jewish Consortium
Published: January 2014

Background

Patients with Parkinson's disease have reduced gray matter volume and fractional anisotropy in both cortical and sub‐cortical structures, yet changes in the pre‐motor phase of the disease are unknown.

Methods

A comprehensive imaging study using voxel‐based morphometry and diffusion tensor imaging tract‐based spatial statistics analysis was performed on 64 Ashkenazi Jewish asymptomatic first degree relatives of patients with Parkinson's disease (30 mutation carriers), who carry the G2019S mutation in the leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) gene.

Results

No between‐group differences in gray matter volume could be noted in either whole‐brain or volume‐of‐interest analysis. Diffusion tensor imaging analysis did not identify group differences in white matter areas, and volume‐of‐interest analysis identified no differences in diffusivity parameters in Parkinson's disease‐related structures.

Conclusions

G2019S carriers do not manifest changes in gray matter volume or diffusivity parameters in Parkinson's disease‐related structures prior to the appearance of motor symptoms. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Olfactory‐related cortical atrophy is associated with olfactory dysfunction in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Lee Eun‐Young , Eslinger Paul J. , Du Guangwei , Kong Lan , Lewis Mechelle M. , Huang Xuemei
Published: January 2014

Background

Olfactory dysfunction is often associated with Parkinson's disease (PD) and can precede characteristic motor symptoms by several years. Olfactory‐related cortical atrophy has been reported in PD, although the extent and association between cortical atrophy and olfactory dysfunction have been controversial. The present study examined whether olfactory dysfunction is associated with gray matter (GM) volume in brain regions subserving primary and secondary olfactory processing.

Methods

High‐resolution T1‐weighted brain MRIs were acquired from 40 PD without dementia and 40 matched controls along with smell identification scores. Brain volumes were compared using voxel‐based morphometry.

Results

Compared to controls, PD patients sustained greater GM loss localized to bilateral piriform cortex (PC) and orbitofrontal cortex (OFC). Reduced olfactory performance in PD was significantly associated with lower GM volumes in PC and OFC.

Conclusions

Both primary and secondary olfactory cortical atrophy occurred in PD and were associated with olfactory dysfunction. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Cross‐cultural factorial validation of the Clinical Interview Schedule – Revised (CIS‐R); findings from a nationally representative survey (EMPIRIC)
Authors: Das‐Munshi Jayati , Castro‐Costa Erico , Dewey Michael E. , Nazroo James , Prince Martin
Published: January 2014

The Clinical Interview Schedule – Revised (CIS‐R) has been widely adopted across cultures to assess common mental disorders. We assessed the factorial validity of the CIS‐R across ethnic minority groups, using data from a nationally representative survey conducted in England in 2000. The sample comprised White British (n = 837), Irish (n = 733), Black Caribbean (n = 694), Bangladeshi (n = 650), Indian (n = 643) and Pakistani (n = 724) respondents. Ordered logistic regression determined the reporting of CIS‐R symptoms. Principal components analysis (PCA) determined the underlying construct of the CIS‐R in White British participants. These factor solutions were then assessed for “best fit” using confirmatory factor analyses (CFAs) across all ethnic groups.

In ordered logistic regression analyses, there was heterogeneity in the reporting of worries, phobias, panic and somatic symptoms across ethnic minority groups relative to the White British group. “Best” fit solutions confirmed through CFA were models where all symptoms were allowed to vary across ethnic groups, or models where an underlying “depression‐anxiety” construct was held invariant while “somatic symptoms” were permitted to vary across groups, although differences between models assessed were slight.

In conclusion, there may be benefits in assessing the functioning of certain CIS‐R items within specific cultural contexts to ensure adequate face validity of the CIS‐R. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adaptive online self‐gating (ADIOS) for free‐breathing noncontrast renal MR angiography
Authors: Xie Yibin , Fan Zhaoyang , Saouaf Rola , Natsuaki Yutaka , Laub Gerhard , Li Debiao
Published: January 2014

Purpose

To develop a respiratory self‐gating method, adaptive online self‐gating (ADIOS), for noncontrast MR angiography (NC MRA) of renal arteries to overcome some limitations of current free‐breathing methods.

Methods

A NC MRA pulse sequence for online respiratory self‐gating was developed based on three‐dimensional balanced steady‐state free precession (bSSFP) and slab‐selective inversion‐recovery. Motion information was derived directly from the slab being imaged for online gating. Scan efficiency was maintained by an automatic adaptive online algorithm. Qualitative and quantitative assessments of image quality were performed and results were compared with conventional diaphragm navigator (NAV).

Results

NC MRA imaging was successfully completed in all subjects (n = 15). Similarly good image quality was observed in the proximal–middle renal arteries with ADIOS compared with NAV. Superior image quality was observed in the middle‐distal renal arteries in the right kidneys with no NAV‐induced artifacts. Maximal visible artery length was significantly longer with ADIOS versus NAV in the right kidneys. NAV setup was completely eliminated and scan time was significantly shorter with ADIOS on average compared with NAV.

Conclusion

The proposed ADIOS technique for noncontrast MRA provides high‐quality visualization of renal arteries with no diaphragm navigator‐induced artifacts, simplified setup, and shorter scan time. Magn Reson Med 73:312–317, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A new method for muscle fatigue assessment: Online model identification techniques
Authors: Papaiordanidou Maria , Hayashibe Mitsuhiro , Varray Alain , Fattal Charles , Guiraud David
Published: January 2014

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to propose a method that allows extraction of the current muscle state under electrically induced fatigue. Methods: The triceps surae muscle of 5 subjects paralyzed by spinal cord injury was fatigued by intermittent electrical stimulation (5 × 5 trains at 30 Hz). Classical fatigue indices representing muscle contractile properties [peak twitch (Pt) and half‐relaxation time (HRT)] were assessed before and after each 5‐train series and were used to identify 2 relevant parameters (Fm, Ur) of a previously developed mathematical model using the Sigma‐Point Kalman Filter. Results: Pt declined significantly during the protocol, whereas HRT remained unchanged. Identification of the model parameters with experimental data yielded a model‐based fatigue assessment that gave a more stable evaluation of fatigue than classical parameters. Conclusions: This work reinforces clinical research by providing a tool that clinicians can use to monitor fatigue development during stimulation. Muscle Nerve 50: 556–563, 2014
Automatic calibration of trigger delay time for cardiac MRI
Authors: Huang Teng‐Yi , Tseng Yu‐Sheng , Chuang Tzu‐Chao
Published: January 2014

This study aimed to automatically identify the cardiac rest period using a rapid free‐breathing (FB) calibration scanning procedure, and to determine the optimal trigger delay for cardiac imaging. A standard deviation (SD) method was used to rapidly identify cardiac quiescent phases employing multiphase cine cardiac images. The accuracy of this method was investigated using 46 datasets acquired from 22 healthy volunteers. The possibility of using a low‐resolution FB method to rapidly acquire cine images was also evaluated. The reproducibility and accuracy of the trigger delay obtained using the rapid calibration scanning process were assessed before its application to a real‐time feedback system. The real‐time trigger delay calibration system was then used to perform T1‐weighted, short‐axis imaging at the end of the cardiac systolic period. Linear regression analysis of the trigger times obtained using the SD method and a reference method indicated that the SD algorithm accurately identified the cardiac rest period (linear regression: slope = 0.94–1, R2 = 0.68–0.84). Group analysis showed that the number of pixels in the left ventricular blood pool in images acquired at the end‐systolic time calculated in real time was significantly lower than in those acquired 50 ms in advance or later (p < 0.01, paired t‐test). The low‐resolution FB imaging method was reproducible for the calibration scanning of an image in a vertical long‐axis slice position (average SD of trigger times, 16–39 ms). Combined with rapid FB calibration scanning, the real‐time feedback system accurately adjusted the trigger delay for T1‐weighted short‐axis imaging. The real‐time feedback method is rapid and reliable for trigger time calibration, and could facilitate cardiac imaging during routine examination. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Caffeine alters resting‐state functional connectivity measured by blood oxygenation level‐dependent MRI
Authors: Wu Wen‐Chau , Lien Shu‐Hua , Chang Jia‐Horng , Yang Shun‐Chung
Published: January 2014

This study aimed to investigate the pharmacological effect of caffeine on functional connectivity measured by resting‐state blood oxygenation level‐dependent (BOLD) MRI in the motor cortex, visual cortex and default mode network (DMN). The protocols and procedures of the study were reviewed and approved by the Institutional Review Board of our institution. On a 3‐T clinical MR system, 20 healthy volunteers underwent imaging before and after oral ingestion of a 200‐mg over‐the‐counter caffeine pill (data from three individuals were excluded from further analysis because of excessive motion). The demographics of the remaining participants were as follows: female/male, 8/9; age, 21–35 years; non‐habitual caffeine consumers over the past 6 months. Functional connectivity was calculated using the general linear model, assessed in terms of connected area (voxels) and statistical significance (Student t‐values), and correlated with changes in regional cerebral blood flow as measured by arterial spin labeling MRI. Per‐subject data analysis showed that caffeine decreased functional connectivity in the motor/visual cortices, but its effects on DMN varied among subjects. Correlation analysis of the changes in functional connectivity and regional blood flow suggested that the effect of caffeine on BOLD functional connectivity was predominantly neural (motor/visual cortices) and partly vascular (DMN). Group analysis showed that, after caffeine ingestion, DMN involved more attentional networks, and more extrastriate areas were integrated into the functional connectivity of the visual cortex, which may be associated with the known pharmacological effect of caffeine in elevating alertness. Caffeine consumption should thus be considered in the experimental design and data interpretation of functional connectivity studies using resting‐state BOLD MRI. © 2014 The Authors. NMR in Biomedicine published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Differences in Sexual Behaviors Among Unmarried Sexually Active Students at 2‐ and 4‐Year Colleges
Authors: Eisenberg Marla E. , Lust Katherine A. , Garcia Carolyn M.
Published: January 2014

Sexual risk behaviors are common among college students, but differences between 2‐ and 4‐year students have not been explicitly tested. Survey data from 9,748 unmarried sexually active Minnesota college students (in 2010 or 2011) were used multilevel logistic regression models to test differences in eight high risk sexual health behaviors and outcomes between students attending 2‐ vs. 4‐year colleges. Odds of sex without a condom, sex without reliable birth control, unplanned pregnancy, and STIs were significantly lower among 4‐year students than 2‐year students, after adjusting for demographic covariates. Health promotion approaches targeted to the needs of 2‐ or 4‐year students may be needed. For example, messaging and outreach efforts encouraging condom use may be especially beneficial for sexual health programs at 2‐year colleges. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Progress towards personalized medicine for ameloblastoma
Authors: Gomes Carolina C , Diniz Marina G , Gomez Ricardo S
Published: January 2014

Ameloblastoma is a locally infiltrative benign odontogenic neoplasm. Tumours may be large, destructive and recurrent, requiring radical surgery with associated facial deformity and morbidity. The molecular pathogenesis of this tumour has been unclear, retarding the development of non‐invasive gene‐targeted therapies. In a recent paper in this journal, Kurppa et al. [4] showed that EGFR‐targeted therapy blocked cell proliferation in an ameloblastoma primary cell culture. That this therapy was not effective in another primary cell culture led to the discovery of the oncogenic BRAF V600E mutation in a high proportion (63%) of ameloblastoma samples. By defining two separate pathways, both of which can be specifically targeted, these findings are an important step towards personalized medicine of ameloblastoma. We discuss the findings in the broader context of ameloblastoma, as well as the effects of tumour microenvironment and molecular heterogeneity that need to be taken into account when considering the use of personalized therapies based on specific genetic mutations in individual patients. Copyright © 2014 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd