bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐throughput salting‐out assisted liquid–liquid extraction with acetonitrile for the determination of anandamide in plasma of hemodialysis patients with liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Xiong Xin , Zhang Lei , Cheng Litao , Mao Wei
Published: January 2015

Anandamide (AEA) is an endocannabinoid present in human plasma that is associated with several physiological functions and disease states. However, low AEA plasma levels pose challenges in terms of analytical characterization. Classical liquid‐based lipid extraction and solid‐phase extraction require complicated procedures and the drying down of relatively large volumes of solvents, making them unsuitable for high‐throughput analysis. Here a high‐throughput salting‐out assisted liquid–liquid extraction (SALLE) method with acetonitrile and mass spectrometry compatible salts for liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) analysis of AEA in human plasma has been developed and validated. The seamless interface of SALLE and LC‐MS eliminated the drying‐down step, only 100 μL of plasma is required and minimal volumes of organic solvent are used. Good reproducibility, accuracy and precision were demonstrated during the method validation. The method is linear up to 10 ng/mL with a lower limit of quantitation of 0.1 ng/mL for AEA, the accuracy for AEA was from 93.3 to 96.7% and the precision was <8.57%. This new methodology was successfully applied to analysis of clinical samples from maintenance hemodialysis patients. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development and validation of a RP‐HPLC method for the quantitation of tofacitinib in rat plasma and its application to a pharmacokinetic study
Authors: S Vijay Kumar , Dhiman Vinay , Giri Kalpesh Kumar , Sharma Kuldeep , Zainuddin Mohd , Mullangi Ramesh
Published: January 2015

A novel, simple, specific, sensitive and reproducible high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) assay method has been developed and validated for the estimation of tofacitinib in rat plasma. The bioanalytical procedure involves extraction of tofacitinib and itraconazole (internal standard, IS) from rat plasma with a simple liquid–liquid extraction process. The chromatographic analysis was performed on a Waters Alliance system using a gradient mobile phase conditions at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min and C18 column maintained at 40 ± 1 °C. The eluate was monitored using an UV detector set at 287 nm. Tofacitinib and IS eluted at 6.5 and 8.3 min, respectively and the total run time was 10 min. Method validation was performed as per US Food and Drug Administration guidelines and the results met the acceptance criteria. The calibration curve was linear over a concentration range of 182–5035 ng/mL (r2 = 0.995). The intra‐ and inter‐day precisions were in the range of 1.41–11.2 and 3.66–8.81%, respectively, in rat plasma. The validated HPLC method was successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic study in rats. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Usefulness and Safety of Intracoronary Administration of Nicorandil for Evaluating Fractional Flow Reserve in Japanese Patients
Authors: Tanaka Nobukiyo , Takahashi Yuya , Ishihara Hiroki , Kawakami Tohru , Ono Hiroyoshi
Published: January 2015

Background

Fractional flow reserve (FFR) is useful for determining the functional significance of epicardial coronary stenosis and may facilitate clinical decision making in patients with an equivocal coronary stenosis for coronary revascularization. Therefore, determining an efficient and safe method to achieve hyperemia is important for evaluating FFR. We investigated the usefulness and safety of intracoronary bolus administration of nicorandil compared with intravenous administration of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) for evaluating FFR in Japanese patients with suspected angina pectoris.

Methods

First, we evaluated the most appropriate hyperemic dose of nicorandil in the first 11 consecutive patients out of 101 Japanese patients. Next, we compared the FFR induced by ATP and by 2 mg of nicorandil in 130 vessels of the 101 patients.

Results

FFR was measured according to nicorandil dose in 14 vessels among 11 of the 101 patients; 92.9% of the patients achieved hyperemia with 2 mg of nicorandil. The FFR values obtained with ATP were significantly correlated with those obtained with 2 mg of nicorandil (regression coefficient = 0.974, R2 = 0.933, P < 0.001). There were no hypotension cases needing a vasopressor after ATP or nicorandil administration, and there was 1 case of transient second‐degree atrioventricular block after ATP administration. The time taken to achieve hyperemia after nicorandil administration (18.9 ± 9.6 seconds) was significantly shorter than that after ATP administration (197.9 ± 23.8 seconds) (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Intracoronary nicorandil administration is more useful than and as safe as intravenous administration of ATP for evaluating FFR in Japanese patients.
Global chaotic parameters of heart rate variability during mental task
Authors: Fontes Anne M. G. , Garner David M. , De Abreu Luiz Carlos , Barbosa Juliana C. , De Assis Elisangela Vilar , De Souza Ana Cecília A. , Porto Andrey A. , Valenti Vitor E.
Published: January 2015

We aimed to evaluate the novel chaotic global techniques of heart rate variability (HRV) analysis during a specific autonomic test, the mental arithmetic overload test. These are spectral detrended fluctuation analysis and spectral multi‐taper method; in addition to spectral entropy. We analyzed 24 healthy male students—all nonsmokers, aged between 18 and 22 years old. HRV was analyzed in the following periods: control protocol—the 10‐min periods before the performance of the task and the 5‐min periods during the performance of the test. Following tests for normality; Kruskal–Wallis technique and principal component analysis—it was decided that this type of mental stimulation did not lead to significant changes in any of the seven combinations of chaotic globals. In conclusion, it was suggested that the time‐series be increased to 1000 RR intervals (at least 20 min of electrocardiographic data) and standard nonlinear methods be introduced in combination with spectral factors as a way of increasing the statistical significance. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 21: 300–307, 2016
A 0.7‐dB NF, +8.2‐dBm IIP3 CMOS low noise amplifier using frequency selective feedback
Authors: Jin Tae Hwan , Han Hong Gul , Kim Tae Wook
Published: January 2015

A CMOS amplifier employing the frequency selective feedback technique using a shunt feedback capacitor is designed and measured. The proposed amplifier can achieve a high IIP3 (input referred third‐order intercept point) by reducing the third‐ and second‐order nonlinearity contributions to the IMD3 (third‐order intermodulation distortion), which is accomplished using a capacitor as the frequency selective element. Also, the shunt feedback capacitor improves the noise performance of the amplifier. By applying the technique to a cascode LNA using 0.18‐µm CMOS technology, we obtain the NF of 0.7 dB, an IIP3 of +8.2 dBm, and a gain of 15.1 dB at 14.4 mW of power consumption at 900 MHz. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Do executive functioning deficits underpin binge eating disorder? A comparison of overweight women with and without binge eating pathology
Authors: Manasse Stephanie M. , Forman Evan M. , Ruocco Anthony C. , Butryn Meghan L. , Juarascio Adrienne S. , Fitzpatrick Kathleen Kara
Published: January 2015

Objective

Deficits in executive function (EF)—including inhibitory control, cognitive flexibility, decision‐making, and working memory—may be risk or maintenance factors for binge eating disorder (BED). However, there is mixed evidence regarding EF deficits in individuals with BED. Significant methodological weaknesses (e.g., use of a single EF measure, omission of relevant covariates) in the current literature represent one reason for lack of consensus.

Method

This study compared EF in a sample of overweight women with (n = 31) and without (n = 43) full or subthreshold BED, with the aim of conducting a multifaceted investigation of the neurocognitive profile of BED. A neuropsychological battery of EF was administered to all participants.

Results

After controlling for IQ and age, individuals with binge eating displayed significantly poorer performance on tasks of problem‐solving and inhibitory control, and displayed higher prioritization of immediate versus delayed rewards, but the two groups did not appear to differ on set‐shifting, working memory, and risk taking. Differences in inhibitory control were no longer statistically significant when depressive symptomology was added as a covariate and correction for multiple comparisons was applied. Exploratory analyses indicated that full and sub‐threshold BED groups did not differ in EF.

Discussion

Results partially support the hypothesis of relative EF deficits in individuals with BED, suggesting that binge eating may be maintained by cognitive factors distinct from those of obesity. Future research should aim to replicate with a larger sample, control for a wider range of psychiatric comorbidities, and examine whether EF deficits predict treatment outcome. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2015; 48:677–683)
The First Heterotrinuclear Confacial Trioctahedron NiIITiIVCrIII: Rational Modular Assembly and Cooperative Effects
Authors: Sonnenburg Bodo , Liratzis Ioannis , Stammler Anja , Bögge Hartmut , Glaser Thorsten
Published: January 2015

The heterodinuclear complex [(ioan)NiIITiIV] with a facial O3 donor set of TiIV‐coordinated benzyl alcoholates serves as a metallo‐ligand for a {CrIIICl3} fragment to yield the heterotrinuclear complex [(ioan)NiIITiIVCrIIICl3]. Comparisons of their molecular structures and electrochemical properties exhibit strong cooperative effects between the metal ions.
Photochromism of Acetyl‐Cyclophanochromene: Intriguing Stabilization of Photogenerated Colored o‐Quinonoid Intermediates
Authors: Mandal Susovan , Mukhopadhyay Arindam , Moorthy Jarugu Narasimha
Published: January 2015

The photochromism of a chromene annulated on [2.2]paracyclophane, Ac‐CPC, was investigated. Whereas the parent chromene 2,2‐diphenylbenzopyran shows photoinduced coloration only at very low temperatures, acetyl‐cyclophanochromene Ac‐CPC was found to exhibit room‐temperature photochromism. With no extended conjugation due to absence of any substituents in two cofacially‐oriented aryl rings, the through‐space delocalization of π‐electrons, i.e., the phane effect, manifests nicely leading to the stabilization of the photogenerated colored o‐quinonoid intermediates. The interaction between cofacial aryl rings is supported by the distance between them, as revealed by X‐ray crystal structure analysis. Additionally, electrophile···nucleophile interactions are surmised to be important for intriguingly longer persistence of the photogenerated intermediates of Ac‐CPC relative to the lifetime of the photogenerated intermediate generated from the parent cyclophanochromene, which is devoid of an electron‐withdrawing acetyl group.
Iodine‐Promoted Oxidative Amidation of Terminal Alkenes – Synthesis of α‐Ketoamides, Benzothiazoles, and Quinazolines
Authors: Deshidi Ramesh , Devari Shekaraiah , Shah Bhahwal Ali
Published: January 2015

A novel metal‐free strategy for oxidative amidation of terminal alkenes by using I2/DMSO for the synthesis of α‐ketoamides has been developed. Intriguingly, the use of tert‐butylhydroperoxide (TBHP) as co‐oxidant can facilitate the synthesis of α‐ketoamides at room temperature without any solvent, thereby making it a green protocol. The reaction with primary amines can be easily achieved by using SeO2 as an oxidizing agent. Besides, the scope of the method was also extended to the synthesis of benzothiazolines and quinazolines.
Process oriented use of geostatistics to analyse creeping para‐glacial features
Authors: Bardou Eric , Favre‐Bulle Guillaume , Faucheux Claire , Jeannée Nicolas , Ornstein Pascal
Published: January 2015

Complex para‐glacial systems may show signs of destabilization leading to frequent and potentially hazardous debris‐flows. Understanding creeping permafrost displacement over a period of time is therefore crucial for hazard management and risks assessment. This paper presents our methodology for estimating creeping permafrost displacement based upon data derived from various survey methods and demonstrates its relevance on the Glacier Bonnard system in southern Switzerland. Geostatistical processing allowed estimation of the displacement intensity over the area of interest, as well as assessment of the interpolation quality. Although the local measurement network needs to be refined, the results largely improve the understanding of the Bonnard para‐glacial system, though highlighting the need to locally refine the measurement network. In the present case, the destabilized front advances at ~1 m/a and the upstream creeping part at ~0.4 m/a. Variance analysis also provide objective thresholds that could be used to distinguish underlying physical processes. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Estimating the aroma glycosides in flue‐cured tobacco by solid‐phase extraction and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry: changes in the bound aroma profile during leaf maturity
Authors: He Qing , Zhang Yaping , Zhou Shun , She Shike , Chen Gang , Chen Kaibo , Yan Zhijing , Guo Dongfeng
Published: January 2015

Glycosidically bound aroma compounds in flue‐cured tobacco were estimated by capillary gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). After a fast isolation of extracts obtained by HP‐20 solid‐phase extraction and methanol elution, glycosides were treated with enzymatic hydrolysis and trifluoroacetylation (TFA) before GC–MS analysis. A totall of 21 bound aglycones, mainly consisting of aliphatic alcohol, aromatic components, C13‐norisoprenoids, sesquiterpenoids and polyphenols, were identified by enzymatic hydrolysis. In addition, with the aid of enzymatic hydrolysis, 14 glucosides, one rutinoside and three vicianosides were identified by TFA derivatization. The three vicianosides were identified for the first time in flue‐cured tobacco. The norisoprenoids group made up >40% of the total level of aglycons in ripe tobacco, followed by polyphenol and aromatic derivatives (27 and 19%, respectively). Generally, levels of bound compounds increased significantly and the content of total glycosides increased by 36% with maturation. Among the glycosides detected, 3‐oxo‐α‐ionol‐glucoside was the most sensitive to maturity and increased the maximum degree. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Metabolic gene variants associated with chromosomal aberrations in healthy humans
Authors: Hemminki Kari , Frank Christoph , Försti Asta , Musak Ludovit , Kazimirova Alena , Barancokova Magdalena , Horska Alexandra , Vymetalkova Veronika , Smerhovsky Zdenek , Naccarati Alessio , Soucek Pavel , Vodickova Ludmila , Buchancova Janka , Smolkova Bozena , Dusinska Maria , Vodicka Pavel
Published: January 2015

Nonspecific chromosomal aberrations (CAs) are found in about 1% of lymphocytes drawn from healthy individuals. They include chromosome‐type aberrations (CSAs), which are increased in exposure to ionizing radiation, and chromatid‐type aberrations (CTAs) which in experimental systems are formed by DNA binding carcinogens and mutagens. The frequency of CAs is associated with the risk of cancer, but the causes of CAs in general population are unknown. Here, we want to test whether variants in metabolic genes associate with CAs in healthy volunteers. Cases were considered those whose total CA (CAtot) frequency was >2% and for CSA and CTA the limit was >1%. Controls had lower frequencies of CAs. Functional polymorphisms in seven genes were selected for analysis: cytochrome P450 1B1 (CYP1B1), epoxide hydrolase 1 (EPHX1), NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), each coding for phase 1 enzymes, and glutathione S‐transferase P1 (GSTP1), glutathione S‐transferases M1 (GSTM1) and T1 (GSTT1), coding for enzymes which conjugate reactive metabolites, that is, phase 2 enzymes. The number of volunteers genotyped for each gene varied from 550 to 1,500. Only EPHX1 was individually associated with CAtot; high activity genotypes decreased CAtot. A total of six significant (P < 0.01) pair‐wise interactions were observed, most including a GST variant as one of the pair. In all genotype combinations with significant odds ratios for CAs a GST variant was involved. The present data provide evidence that variants in genes coding for metabolic enzymes, which individually have small effects, interact and are associated with CA frequencies in peripheral lymphocytes of healthy volunteers. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Splicing factor NSSR1 reduces neuronal injury after mouse transient global cerebral ischemia
Authors: Qi Yao , Li Ya , Cui Shi‐Chao , Zhao Jing‐Jing , Liu Xiao‐Yan , Ji Chun‐Xia , Sun Feng‐Yan , Xu Ping , Chen Xian‐Hua
Published: January 2015

This study focuses on the function of NSSR1, a splicing factor, in neuronal injury in the ischemic mouse brain using the transient global cerebral ischemic mouse model and the cultured cells treated with oxygen‐glucose deprivation (OGD). The results showed that the cerebral ischemia triggers the expression of NSSR1 in hippocampal astrocytes, predominantly the dephosphorylated NSSR1 proteins, and the Exon3 inclusive NCAM‐L1 variant and the Exon4 inclusive CREB variant. While in the hippocampus of astrocyte‐specific NSSR1 conditional knockdown (cKD) mice, where cerebral ischemia no longer triggers NSSR1 expression in astrocytes, the expression of Exon3 inclusive NCAM‐L1 variant and Exon4 inclusive CREB variant were no longer triggered as well. In addition, the injury of hippocampal neurons was more severe in astrocyte‐specific NSSR1 cKD mice compared with in wild‐type mice after brain ischemia. Of note, the culture media harvested from the astrocytes with overexpression of NSSR1 or the Exon3 inclusive NCAM‐L1 variant, or Exon4 inclusive CREB variant were all able to reduce the neuronal injury induced by OGD. The results provide the evidence demonstrating that: (1) Splicing factor NSSR1 is a new factor involved in reducing ischemic injury. (2) Ischemia induces NSSR1 expression in astrocytes, not in neurons. (3) NSSR1‐mediated pathway in astrocytes is required for reducing ischemic neuronal injury. (4) NCAM‐L1 and CREB are probably mediators in NSSR1‐mediated pathway. In conclusion, our results suggest for the first time that NSSR1 may provide a novel mechanism for reducing neuronal injury after ischemia, probably through regulation on alternative splicing of NCAM‐L1 and CREB in astrocytes. GLIA 2015;63:826–845
Characterization of the genotype and integration patterns of hepatitis B virus in early‐ and late‐onset hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Yan Hongli , Yang Yuan , Zhang Ling , Tang Guannan , Wang YuZhao , Xue Geng , Zhou Weiping , Sun Shuhan
Published: January 2015

Early‐onset hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for 15%‐20% of total HCC cases in Asia, and the incidence is increasing. The low frequency of cirrhosis and poor prognosis of early‐onset HCC suggests that its mechanisms may differ from late‐onset HCC. Although hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is epidemiologically associated with HCC, the role of HBV in early‐onset HCC remains poorly understood. Here, we report a comparative study of HBV subgenotypes and integration in early‐ (≤30) and late‐onset (≥70) HBV‐associated HCC using a novel high‐throughput viral integration detection method. We report that HBV B2 is predominantly present in early‐onset HCC. HBV integration is a common phenomenon, both in early‐ and late‐onset HCC, which favors integrating into human repeat regions. Moreover, we found a breakpoint in 8q24 located between c‐Myc and plasmocytoma variant translocation 1 (PVT1), which was detected in 12.4% (14 of 113) of early‐onset HCCs, but only 1.4% (2 of 145) in late‐onset HCCs. HBV integrating this site results in c‐MYC, PVT1, and microRNA‐1204 overexpression in tumors, thereby potentially contributing to the development of early‐onset HCC. Conclusion: HBV genotype and integration patterns may be distinct in early‐onset HCC. Our results may shed light on HCC risk factors in young HBV carriers. Further studies are needed to elucidate at which time in tumor development this integration event occurs and whether it plays an important, causative role in HCC development or progression. (Hepatology 2015;61:1821‐1831)
Long‐term effect of antiviral therapy on disease course after decompensation in patients with hepatitis B virus–related cirrhosis
Authors: Jang Jeong Won , Choi Jong Young , Kim Young Seok , Woo Hyun Young , Choi Sung Kyu , Lee Chang Hyeong , Kim Tae Yeob , Sohn Joo Hyun , Tak Won Young , Han Kwang‐Hyub
Published: January 2015

The effect of viral suppression on long‐term disease outcome after decompensation in patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐related cirrhosis has not been established. The aim of this study was to determine the long‐term effect of antiviral therapy (AVT) in patients with HBV‐related decompensated cirrhosis. This was a multicenter, prospective, inception cohort study of 707 patients who presented with first‐onset decompensated complications, including 284 untreated and 423 antiviral‐treated patients (58 previously treated, 253 with early treatment, and 112 with delayed treatment). The primary endpoint was 5‐year liver transplantation (LT)‐free survival. Secondary endpoints included virological response (VR) and serological response and improvement in liver function. Despite baseline high HBV activity and worse liver function, antiviral‐treated patients had significantly better transplant‐free survival than untreated patients (5‐year survival rates of 59.7% vs. 46.0%, respectively), with more apparent benefits from antivirals in Child‐Turcotte‐Pugh class B/C and high‐viremia groups. The rate of VR and hepatitis B e antigen seroconversion at 5 years in antiviral‐treated patients was 14.2% and 49.1%, respectively. A significant improvement in liver function was observed in treated versus untreated patients, with 33.9% of treated patients delisted for LT. Patients with early treatment had better clinical outcomes than those with delayed treatment. Survival was dependent on antiviral response, being significantly better in responders than in nonresponders or untreated cases. The initial benefit of AVT was negated over time in nonresponders. Antiviral treatment and maintained VR remained independently predictive of survival. The study results were corroborated by propensity score‐matching analysis. Conclusion: AVT significantly modifies the natural history of decompensated cirrhosis, improving liver function and increasing survival. The results underscore the importance of promptly administering potent antiviral drugs to patients under consideration for LT. (Hepatology 2015;61:1808–1820)
Chemokine (C‐X‐C motif) ligand 13 promotes intrahepatic chemokine (C‐X‐C motif) receptor 5+ lymphocyte homing and aberrant B‐cell immune responses in primary biliary cirrhosis
Authors: Li Yongyin , Wang Weibin , Tang Libo , He Xuanqiu , Yan Xin , Zhang Xiaoyong , Zhu Youfu , Sun Jian , Shi Yongquan , Ma Xiong , Mackay Ian R. , Gershwin M. Eric , Han Ying , Hou Jinlin
Published: January 2015

The serological hallmark of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is the presence of high titer and specific antimitochondrial antibodies (AMAs). Although there is no global immune defect in patients with PBC, there is widespread dysregulated B‐cell function, including increased sera levels of immunoglobulin M and enhanced B‐cell responses to cytosine‐phosphate‐guanine stimulation. The mechanisms involved in this B‐cell dysfunction have remained unknown. To address this issue, we focused on identifying the frequencies of B‐cell subsets in patients with PBC and the mechanisms that lead to B‐cell dysregulation, including the relationships with chemokine (C‐X‐C motif) receptor 5 (CXCR5)+CD4+T cells. Herein, we report that elevations of both serum and intrahepatic interleukin‐21 (IL‐21) were found in patients with PBC and, in particular, promoted B‐cell proliferation, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 phosphorylation and AMA production in vitro. More important, upon stimulation with recombinant E2 subunit of pyruvate dehydrogenase complex, CXCR5+CD4+T cells in PBC produced higher levels of IL‐21 than healthy controls. Additionally, sorted CXCR5+CD4+T cells increased production of AMAs by autologous CD19+B cells. Indeed, elevated expression of intrahepatic chemokine (C‐X‐C motif) ligand 13 (CXCL13), a key chemokine of CXCR5+ cells, was uniquely found within the portal tracts in PBC, accompanied by infiltrates of CD4+, CXCR5+, CD19+, and CD38+ cells. Conclusion: CXCL13 promotes aggregation of CD19+B cells and CXCR5+CD4+T cells, which directs the aberrant AMA response by IL‐21. These data have implications for potential immunotherapy and also reflect the unique lymphoid biology in liver of PBC. (Hepatology 2015;61:1998‐2007)
Stereotype activation is unintentional: Behavioural and event‐related potenials evidence
Authors: Wang Pei , Yang Ya‐Ping , Tan Chen‐Hao , Zhao Xiang‐Xia , Liu Yong‐He , Lin Chong‐De
Published: January 2015

In this study, a priming Stroop paradigm was used to determine whether stereotype activation is unintentional. Priming conditions (priming/no‐priming) and the relationship between priming and target (consistent/inconsistent/no‐relation) were the independent variables; accuracy, reaction time and N400 amplitude were used as dependent variables. The reaction time revealed that stereotype activation is, to some extent, unintentional. Furthermore, the event‐related potenial (ERP) results showed that N400 amplitude was larger for inconsistent conditions than for consistent conditions. This result supported the notion that stereotype activation is an unintentional and automatic process.
Effects of disgust priming and disgust sensitivity on moral judgement
Authors: Olatunji Bunmi O. , Puncochar Bieke David
Published: January 2015

Although prior research suggests that disgust results in more severe moral judgements, the extent to which awareness of disgust cues influences moral judgements remains unclear. To address this gap in the literature, participants in this study were randomised to subliminal or conscious awareness of disgust and neutral images prior to the description and evaluation of moral transgressions. No differences were found in moral severity ratings for transgressions that were presented after neutral and disgust images in the subliminal condition. However, moral severity ratings for moderate transgressions that were presented after neutral images were significantly higher than morality ratings of transgressions presented after disgust images in the conscious condition. Subsequent analysis also revealed a significant relationship between individual differences in disgust propensity and perceived immorality of moderate transgressions, especially in the conscious condition. The finding of higher moral severity ratings for moderate transgressions presented after neutral images in the conscious condition is inconsistent with research showing that disgust uniquely influences moral judgements. This research highlights the importance of further research examining the role of methodological considerations that may moderate the influence of disgust on moral judgements.
A Port Window View
Authors: Landry Steven J.
Published: January 2015

This column features essays written by current middle school and high school teachers, media specialists, librarians, literacy coaches, curriculum specialists, administrators, preservice teachers, teacher educators, and adolescent and adult learners. They highlight diverse perspectives on teaching and/or learning with literacies to inspire reader reflection.
Rethinking Gaps
Authors: Jocson Korina , Rosa Jonathan
Published: January 2015

Growing efforts in the study of digital literacies push for continued (re)shaping of policy and pedagogical interventions. In this column, we take up concerns in participatory cultures to revisit a longstanding issue pertaining to language. Evident in the literature on digital literacies is an implicit treatment of language, particularly around whose languages are included. In our respective research, we are challenged by questions that seek to identify literacies and languages as repertoires of practice in youth's lives. We want to know, if youth are communicating and engaging each other across media platforms, what languages or linguistic forms are leveraged in their lives? In what ways are youth supported socially and educationally? We come together here to make language more explicit in the conversation.
Professional Resources
Authors: M. Haddix Marcelle
Published: January 2015

In educational research, policies and practices, African American male youth are often portrayed as a monolithic demographic of uneducable, criminalized, deviant students. This column reviews the works of two African American male scholars, Tyrone D. Howard's (2014) Black Male(d) and David E. Kirkland's (2013) A Search Past Silence, focused on disrupting the stereotypes projected onto Black male youth and placing their lives at promise.
Diagnosis of functioning pancreaticoduodenal neuroendocrine tumors
Authors: Imamura Masayuki , Nakamoto Yuji , Uose Suguru , Komoto Izumi , Awane Masaaki , Taki Yoshiro
Published: January 2015

Functioning pancreaticoduodenal neuroendocrine tumors (PD‐NETs) are popular in a textbook, but they are still unfamiliar to a general clinician, and delay of diagnosis or misdiagnosis has been reported even today. It is a consensus that sporadic functioning PD‐NET is cured only by surgical resection. So, early detection and early resection is the gold standard for the treatment of functioning PD‐NET. Functioning PD‐NETs in patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN 1) are often multiple. You should check about MEN 1 whenever you encountered multiple PD‐NET. They are diagnosed in younger age than sporadic cases. In most cases they are accompanied with numerous microscopic or macroscopic nonfunctioning P‐NETs, which are potentially metastatic and the most common cause of death in MEN 1 patients. © Japanese Society of Hepato‐Biliary‐Pancreatic Surgery
Using multi‐timescale methods and satellite‐derived land surface temperature for the interpolation of daily maximum air temperature in Oregon
Authors: Parmentier Benoit , McGill Brian J. , Wilson Adam M. , Regetz James , Jetz Walter , Guralnick Robert , Tuanmu Mao‐Ning , Schildhauer Mark
Published: January 2015

There is a growing demand for fine‐grained (e.g. 1 km) daily historical meteorological data. Traditional approaches interpolate between observations collected at existing meteorological stations; however, the demand for ever increasing fine resolutions has begun to outstrip the available ground‐station data, especially for daily timescales. One promising technique known as the climate‐aided interpolation (CAI) has the advantage of incorporating climatological data to improve fine‐grained spatial detail while still producing a daily product. By estimating spatial structure at a coarser timescale than the target timescale, more ground‐station data can be used, leading to improved accuracy in these multi‐timescale procedures. Another approach to improve fine‐grained spatial structure is the incorporation of additional environmental covariates that are measured at fine grains. Elevation has long been used in this role, but other covariates, especially remotely sensed measures of land cover and land surface temperatures (LST), are also promising. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive evaluation of three interpolation methods and rigorous evaluation of multi‐timescale procedures that do and do not include additional environmental covariates includingLST. We perform this evaluation on daily maximum air temperature predictions using a region with widely varying climates, the state of Oregon,USA. We find that multi‐timescale procedures provide a roughly 10% improvement in prediction accuracy over single‐timescale procedures. For multi‐timescale approaches, we find that universal kriging has the lowest root mean square error (RMSE) but has a lower predictive accuracy when the number of station decreases in the study area. Thus, generalized additive models (GAM) and geographically weighted regression (GWR) may be superior interpolation methods in areas with sparse station data. Most covariates other than elevation do not improve accuracy, butLSTmay be useful during summer when elevation displays low correlation withTmax. Analyses also show that elevation andLSTprovide increased spatial heterogeneity.
From months to minutes – exploring the value of high‐resolution rainfall observation and prediction during the UK winter storms of 2013/2014
Authors: Lewis Huw , Mittermaier Marion , Mylne Ken , Norman Katie , Scaife Adam , Neal Robert , Pierce Clive , Harrison Dawn , Jewell Sharon , Kendon Michael , Saunders Roger , Brunet Gilbert , Golding Brian , Kitchen Malcolm , Davies Paul , Pilling Charles
Published: January 2015

As the societal impacts of hazardous weather and other environmental pressures grow, the need for integrated predictions that can represent the numerous feedbacks and linkages between sub‐systems is greater than ever. This was well illustrated during winter 2013/2014 when a prolonged series of deep Atlantic depressions over a 3 month period resulted in damaging wind storms and exceptional rainfall accumulations. The impact on livelihoods and property from the resulting coastal surge and river and surface flooding was substantial. This study reviews the observational and modelling toolkit available to operational meteorologists during this period, which focusses on precipitation forecasting months, weeks, days and hours ahead of time. The routine availability of high‐resolution (km scale) deterministic and ensemble rainfall predictions for short‐range weather forecasting as well as weather‐resolving seasonal prediction capability represent notable landmarks that have resulted from significant progress in research and development over the past decade. Latest results demonstrated that the suite of global and high‐resolution UK numerical weather prediction models provided excellent guidance during this period, supported by high‐resolution observations networks, such as weather radar, which proved resilient in difficult conditions. The specific challenges for demonstrating this performance for high‐resolution precipitation forecasts are discussed. Despite their good operational performance, there remains a need to further develop the capability and skill of these tools to fully meet user needs and to increase the value that they deliver. These challenges are discussed, notably to accelerate the progress towards understanding the value that might be delivered through more integrated environmental prediction.
Resveratrol attenuates lipopolysaccharide‐induced acute kidney injury by suppressing inflammation driven by macrophages
Authors: Chen Liang , Yang Sixing , Zumbrun Elizabeth E. , Guan Hongbing , Nagarkatti Prakash S. , Nagarkatti Mitzi
Published: January 2015

Scope

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is the most frequent and serious complication in sepsis, a potentially deadly inflammatory response induced by bacterial, viral, or fungal infection. LPS‐induced AKI is associated with an abnormal inflammatory response, including renal endothelial dysfunction and renal inflammation. Resveratrol, a natural phytoalexin with low toxicity and anti‐inflammatory properties, is known to protect endothelial cells and modulate the immune response in sepsis.

Methods and results

This study investigates the potential protective effects of resveratrol on AKI induced by LPS exposure of mice. Resveratrol was administered as a pre‐ and posttreatment, or as a posttreatment alone following LPS injection and compared to control groups. Resveratrol significantly improved kidney function and lowered serum and kidney tissue inflammatory cytokine levels. Consistently, resveratrol prevented endotoxin‐induced disruption of endothelial cell permeability and inhibited inflammation of kidney tissue. Resveratrol treatment attenuated the effects of LPS on macrophages, with significant inhibition of activation, cytokine release, and Toll‐like receptor 4 activation. Resveratrol treatment also resulted in decreased expression of iNOS, Bcl‐2, and Bcl‐xL in macrophages, which was linked with induction of apoptosis in macrophages.

Conclusion

Our studies suggest that resveratrol might represent a novel therapeutic agent to prevent and treat sepsis‐induced AKI.
The influence of different shaped nanofillers (1D, 2D) on barrier and mechanical properties of polymer hybrid nanocomposites based on PET prepared by in situ polymerization
Authors: Paszkiewicz S. , Kwiatkowska M. , Rosłaniec Z. , Szymczyk A. , Jotko M. , Lisiecki S.
Published: January 2015

In this report, we investigated how barrier and mechanical properties of poly(ethylene terephthalate) were influenced by carbon nanoadditives which differ in shape (1D, 2D) and particle size. The results obtained for PET/expanded graphite (EG) and PET/single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) were compared with the results obtained for PET/EG+SWCNT hybrid nanocomposites. The different morphologies affect the dispersion of carbon nanoparticles in in situ prepared PET nanocomposites and play a crucial role in structure–property relationship. Good distribution of expanded graphite nanosheets along with some nanotube agglomerates was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Uniformly distributed EG with SWCNT agglomerates caused an enhancement in mechanical properties. We also found that the barrier properties of PET/EG+SWCNT hybrid nanocomposites are far better than neat PET. The described influence of carbon nanomaterials on the properties of PET hybrid nanocomposites is mostly due to addition of well‐exfoliated graphene nanoplatelets and less due to the presence of tubular carbon nanoparticles, which were observed to form agglomerates. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:1949–1959, 2016. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Memristor materials, mechanisms and devices for unconventional computing
Authors: Erokhin Victor
Published: January 2015

Memristive devices are amongst key elements in the experimental realization of unconventional and bio‐inspired computational systems. Our symposium was the first ever event dedicated to the technological aspects of the realization of different types of memristive devices. There were about 100 participants; top level presentations; very fruitful final round table, where a possibility of the next E‐MRS related symposia organization was considered. The future will show whether we have done a fruitful start‐up.
Therapeutic Potential of Resveratrol in Type I Gaucher Disease
Authors: Seo Cheong Hoon , Kim June‐Bum
Published: January 2015

Resveratrol is a natural polyphenol that possesses various beneficial properties, such as anti‐inflammatory, anti‐oxidant, and neuroprotective effects. This study evaluated the potential therapeutic effects of resveratrol on primary fibroblasts derived from a patient with Gaucher disease. 3‐(4,5‐Dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays were carried out to determine whether resveratrol affects cell survival. Changes in the expression levels of apoptosis‐inducing factor (AIF), Bax, cleaved caspase‐3, acetyl‐coenzyme A acetyltransferase 1 (ACAT1), E3‐binding protein (E3BP), and citrate synthase (CS) were determined by western immunoblot to characterize the effect of resveratrol treatment on Gaucher disease cells. Intracellular glucosylceramide levels in resveratrol‐treated patient cells were determined by thin‐layer chromatography (TLC). Resveratrol significantly increased the viability of patient cells in comparison with that of control cells. After exposure to resveratrol, expression levels of the apoptotic factors AIF, Bax, and cleaved caspase‐3 dose‐dependently decreased, while those of ACAT1, E3BP, and CS dose‐dependently increased. TLC showed a significant decrease in glucosylceramide levels in patient cells treated with resveratrol. These findings demonstrate that resveratrol can reduce apoptotic events and glucosylceramide levels in Gaucher disease cells, and that it merits further research as a possible therapeutic compound. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Intelligent vision guide for automatic ventilation grommet insertion into the tympanic membrane
Authors: Gao Wenchao , Tan Kok Kiong , Liang Wenyu , Gan Chee Wee , Lim Hsueh Yee
Published: January 2015

Background

Otitis media with effusion is a worldwide ear disease. The current treatment is to surgically insert a ventilation grommet into the tympanic membrane. A robotic device allowing automatic grommet insertion has been designed in a previous study; however, the part of the membrane where the malleus bone is attached to the inner surface is to be avoided during the insertion process.

Methods

This paper proposes a synergy of optical flow technique and a gradient vector flow active contours algorithm to achieve an online tracking of the malleus under endoscopic vision, to guide the working channel to move efficiently during the surgery.

Results

The proposed method shows a more stable and accurate tracking performance than the current tracking methods in preclinical tests.

Conclusion

With satisfactory tracking results, vision guidance of a suitable insertion spot can be provided to the device to perform the surgery in an automatic way. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Accuracy of a flapless protocol for computer‐guided zygomatic implant placement in human cadavers: expectations and reality
Authors: Schiroli Guido , Angiero Francesca , Zangerl Antoniettel , Benedicenti Stefano , Ferrante Franco , Widmann Gerlig
Published: January 2015

Background

This work evaluated the accuracy and safety of a protocol for minimally‐invasive flapless zygomatic implant placement that uses computer‐guided stereolithographic mucosa‐supported surgical templates.

Methods

A total of six zygomatic implants were placed in three formalin‐fixed human cadaver heads, with edentulous and severely atrophic posterior maxillae. CT scans of each cadaver head were performed after zygomatic implant placement, to evaluate the lateral error (LE) at implant tip and base, and the angular error (AE) of the implant body.

Results

Excluding the implant placed outside the drilling channel, the LE at the implant base was less than 1 mm in all cases. The average LE at the tip was 3.86 mm, and the AE was less than 6° in all cases, with an average of 4.5°.

Conclusion

Computer‐guided minimally‐invasive flapless zygomatic implant surgery remains challenging. Careful planning and perfect stability of the surgical guide are essential. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electrostatic Interaction and Reaction Behavior of a 1, 2,4‐Triazole Mixture with Dinitrobenzene
Authors: Sasahara Kohei , Kumasaki Mieko , Date Shingo , Koshi Mitsuo
Published: January 2015

The electrostatic interactions between gas generating agent and organic electron withdrawing additives were studied to understand how the interaction affects the reactions of their thermal behavior. To explore the electronic interaction and its effect, the thermal behavior of a mixture of dinitrobenzene isomers [p‐dinitrobenzene (pDNB) and m‐dinitrobenzene (mDNB)] and 1, 2,4‐triazole (TA) was analyzed. Density functional calculations and electron density analysis proved that both pDNB and mDNB in a 1:1 ratio withdraw electrons from TA. The analysis of pyrolysis behavior showed that TA and dinitrobenzene mixtures (TA/pDNB or TA/mDNB) react at lower temperatures than each precursor. Gas chromatography mass analysis and UV/Vis spectroscopy showed reasonable results that suggested that pDNB and TA make condensed products in the initial stage of the reaction according to the differential scanning calorimetry measurement. When the mixtures were ignited under pressurized conditions, TA/pDNB burned easily while TA/mDNB burned only partially. These results suggested that the interaction between triazole and dinitrobenzene affects the pyrolysis and combustion behavior of a TA/dinitrobenzene mixture.
27Al and 45Sc NMR Spectroscopy on ScT2Al and Sc(T0.5T′0.5)2Al (T = T′ = Ni, Pd, Pt, Cu, Ag, Au) Heusler Phases and Superconductivity in Sc(Pd0.5Au0.5)2Al
Authors: Benndorf Christopher , Niehaus Oliver , Eckert Hellmut , Janka Oliver
Published: January 2015

The intermetallic Heusler compounds with ScT2Al and Sc(T0.5T′0.5)2Al composition with T = T' = Ni, Pd, Pt, Cu, Ag, Au were synthesized from the elements by arc melting. They crystallize in the cubic MnCu2Al type structure, space group Fm$\bar{3}$m. The unit cell parameters were determined by powder X‐ray diffraction and the structure of Sc(Pd0.5Au0.5)2Al was refined on the basis of single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. While the majority of the compounds show Pauli‐paramagnetism, ScAu2Al and the newly synthesized solid solution Sc(Pd0.5Au0.5)2Al exhibit superconductivity with transition temperatures of TC = 4.4 K and TC = 3.0(1) K, respectively. The superconducting state of Sc(Pd0.5Au0.5)2Al was also investigated by electrical resistivity measurements. All the synthesized compounds were furthermore studied by 27Al and 45Sc MAS‐NMR spectroscopy. The resonance shifts of the synthesized compounds were determined and in Sc(Pd1–xAux)2Al a linear relationship between the resonance shifts and the composition was found. Line broadening effects and enhanced quadrupolar interaction strengths observed in the mixed samples can be attributed to the effect of Pd/Au mixing on the 8c Wyckoff site. The NMR spectroscopic data give no clear evidence for or against Sc/Al site disordering.
Molecular cloning and expression of thermostable glucose-tolerant β-glucosidase of Penicillium funiculosum NCL1 in Pichia pastoris and its characterization
Authors: Ramani Gurusamy , Meera Balasubramanian , Vanitha Chinnathambi , Rajendhran Jeyaprakash , Gunasekaran Paramasamy
Published: January 2015

A partial peptide sequence of β-glucosidase isoform (Bgl4) of Penicillium funiculosum NCL1 was identified by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The cDNA (bgl4) encoding Bgl4 protein was cloned from P. funiculosum NCL1 RNA by consensus RT-PCR. The bgl4 gene encoded 857 amino acids that contained catalytic domains specific for glycoside hydrolase family 3. The cDNA was over-expressed in Pichia pastoris KM71H and the recombinant protein (rBgl4) was purified with the specific activity of 1,354.3 U/mg. The rBgl4 was a glycoprotein with the molecular weight of ~130 kDa and showed optimal activity at pH 5.0 and 60 °C. The enzyme was thermo-tolerant up to 60 °C for 60 min. The rBgl4 was highly active on aryl substrates with β-glucosidic, β-xylosidic linkages and moderately active on cellobiose and salicin. It showed remarkably high substrate conversion rate of 3,332 and 2,083 μmol/min/mg with the substrates p-nitrophenyl β-glucoside and cellobiose respectively. In addition, the rBgl4 showed tolerance to glucose concentration up to 400 mM. It exhibited twofold increase in glucose yield when supplemented with crude cellulase of Trichoderma reesei Rut-C30 in cellulose hydrolysis. These results suggested that rBgl4 is a thermo- and glucose-tolerant β-glucosidase and is a potential supplement for commercial cellulase in cellulose hydrolysis and thereby assures profitability in bioethanol production.