bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioinoculants and Vermicompost ImproveOcimum basilicumYield and Soil Health in a Sustainable Production System
Authors: Verma Sanjeet K. , Pankaj Umesh , Khan Khushboo , Singh Rakshapal , Verma Rajesh Kumar
Published: February 2016

With respect to the adverse effects of chemical fertilizers on the environment and their higher cost, an alternative method of improving soil fertility has been tested. Application of vermicompost (VC) (produced from de‐oiled waste) along with efficient bioinoculants (nitrogen fixer:Bacillussp., JN700924; phosphate solubilizer:Bacillus megaterium, ATCC 14581; plant growth promoter:Pseudomonas monteilii, HQ 995498; arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (AMF):Glomus intraradices) in different combinations were evaluated onOcimumbasilicum. VC along with bioinoculants‐treated plots showed a significant improvement in biomass (15.1–56%), essential oil content (26.7–48.2%), and essential oil yield (44.7–108.4%) over control. The major constituent of essential oil (i.e., methyl chavicol) was significantly improved in T3(VC + Bacillussp.), T5(VC + P. monteilii), and T6(VC + G. intraradices) treated plants as compared to control (T1). Significant improvement in microbial counts, percent root colonization of AMF, and alkaline phosphatase activity were recorded; maximum in bioinoculants along with VC‐treated plots. Improvement in soil organic carbon (4.2–51.16%), NH4+‐N (27.0–55.3%), NO3–‐N (−8 to 60.33%], available P (15.2–43.5%), and available K (0.4–20.8%) were found in VC along with bioinoculants‐treated plots. The diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid extractable Fe (109–154 mg kg−1soil) was more influenced by VC along with bioinoculants than other micronutrients (Cu, Mn, and Zn). The results suggest that an integrated use of VC with bioinoculants improves soil health and essential oil yield ofO. basilicum.
Substrate Activity Screening (SAS) and Related Approaches in Medicinal Chemistry
Authors: Gladysz Rafaela , Lambeir Anne‐Marie , Joossens Jurgen , Augustyns Koen , Van der Veken Pieter
Published: February 2016

Substrate activity screening (SAS) was presented a decade ago by Ellman and co‐workers as a straightforward methodology for the identification of fragment‐sized building blocks for enzyme inhibitors. Ever since, SAS and variations derived from it have been successfully applied to the discovery of inhibitors of various families of enzymatically active drug targets. This review covers key achievements and challenges of SAS and related methodologies, including the modified substrate activity screening (MSAS) approach. Special attention is given to the kinetic and thermodynamic aspects of these methodologies, as a thorough understanding thereof is crucial for successfully transforming the identified fragment‐sized hits into potent inhibitors.
Fragment Screening of Soluble Epoxide Hydrolase for Lead Generation—Structure‐Based Hit Evaluation and Chemistry Exploration
Authors: Xue Yafeng , Olsson Thomas , Johansson Carina A , Öster Linda , Beisel Hans‐Georg , Rohman Mattias , Karis David , Bäckström Stefan
Published: February 2016

Soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) is involved in the regulation of many biological processes by metabolizing the key bioactive lipid mediator, epoxyeicosatrienoic acids. For the development of sEH inhibitors with improved physicochemical properties, we performed both a fragment screening and a high‐throughput screening aiming at an integrated hit evaluation and lead generation. Followed by a joint dose–response analysis to confirm the hits, the identified actives were then effectively triaged by a structure‐based hit‐classification approach to three prioritized series. Two distinct scaffolds were identified as tractable starting points for potential lead chemistry work. The oxoindoline series bind at the right‐hand side of the active‐site pocket with hydrogen bonds to the protein. The 2‐phenylbenzimidazole‐4‐sulfonamide series bind at the central channel with significant induced fit, which has not been previously reported. On the basis of the encouraging initial results, we envision that a new lead series with improved properties could be generated if a vector is found that could merge the cyclohexyl functionality of the oxoindoline series with the trifluoromethyl moiety of the 2‐phenylbenzimidazole‐4‐sulfonamide series.
Tracking old and new colours: Material study of 16th century mural paintings from Évora Cathedral (Southern Portugal)
Authors: Helvaci Yigit Z. , Dias Luis , Manhita Ana , Martins Sérgio , Cardoso Ana , Candeias António , Gil Milene
Published: February 2016

This article describes the results of a multi‐analytical research carried out on the mural paintings from Évora Cathedral, one of the oldest and most prominent monuments of Évora city. The paintings were a late 16th Century addition to the cathedral's northern transept chapel and are attributed to the painter José de Escovar, whose painting workshop was remarkably active in the so‐called golden age of mural paintings in southern Portugal. The aim of the study was to reconstruct the paintings’ life story through a materials science perspective by discerning the material characteristics of the original and overpaint campaigns. The analytical setup comprised technical photography (TP) in the visible and UV light, Vis‐Spectrophotometry, optical microscopy (OM) complemented with scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X‐ray spectrometry (SEM‐EDS), micro Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (µFT‐IR) and pyrolysis–gas chromatography (Py‐GC/MS) analyses of the collected samples. Results show that the original paint layers were executed with a combination of fresco and secco techniques, using a very simple chromatic palette composed of earth pigments, mercury sulphide, calcium carbonate and green copper based pigments. The paintings were heavily retouched and overpainted using earth pigments, smalt, Prussian blue, zinc white and lead white. Furthermore, the analyses of the cross‐sections taken from the stuccoed frames revealed a first decorative campaign made with gold and silver alloy. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 41, 276–282, 2016
Fibronectin assembly during early embryo development: A versatile communication system between cells and tissues
Authors: de Almeida Patrícia Gomes , Pinheiro Gonçalo G. , Nunes Andreia M. , Gonçalves André B. , Thorsteinsdóttir Sólveig
Published: February 2016

Background: Fibronectin extracellular matrix is essential for embryogenesis. Its assembly is a cell‐mediated process where secreted fibronectin dimers bind to integrin receptors on receiving cells, which actively assemble fibronectin into a fibrillar matrix. During development, paracrine communication between tissues is crucial for coordinating morphogenesis, typically being mediated by growth factors and their receptors. Recent reports of situations where fibronectin is produced by one tissue and assembled by another, with implications on tissue morphogenesis, suggest that fibronectin assembly may also be a paracrine communication event in certain contexts. Results: Here we addressed which tissues express fibronectin (Fn1) while also localizing assembled fibronectin matrix and determining the mRNA expression and/or protein distribution pattern of integrins α5 and αV, α chains of the major fibronectin assembly receptors, during early chick and mouse development. We found evidence supporting a paracrine system in fibronectin matrix assembly in several tissues, including immature mesenchymal tissues, components of central and peripheral nervous system and developing muscle. Conclusions: Thus, similarly to growth factor signaling, fibronectin matrix assembly during early development can be both autocrine and paracrine. We therefore propose that it be considered a cell–cell communication event at the same level and significance as growth factor signaling during embryogenesis. Developmental Dynamics 245:520–535, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome masquerading as an eating disorder
Authors: Brewerton Timothy D. , Anderson Odette
Published: February 2016

The case of a 22 year old woman with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) presenting as an eating disorder is described. The importance of recognizing chronic cannabis use as a cause of episodic vomiting is emphasized, given that CHS can be confused with self‐induced purging and cyclic vomiting. This case was further complicated by the well‐defined history of anorexia nervosa (binge‐purge type), major depressive disorder, obsessive‐compulsive disorder, migraine headache, and the initial denial of cannabis use. However, collateral history and a positive drug screen confirmed the diagnosis. The signs, symptoms and pathophysiological mechanisms of CHS are reviewed in light of clinical presentations that mimic eating disorder phenomenology complicated by addiction. Given the trend for increasing legalization of recreational marijuana as well as medical marijuana, CHS is an important and potentially complicating disorder that eating disorder clinicians need to be aware of. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2016; 49:826–829).
German Society for Immunology and Australasian Society for Immunology joint Workshop 3rd–4th December 2015 – Meeting report
Authors: Kurts Christian , Gottschalk Catherine , Bedoui Sammy , Heinzel Susanne , Godfrey Dale , Enders Anselm
Published: February 2016

The German Society for Immunology (DGfI) and the Australasian Society for Immunology (ASI) hosted the first DGfI‐ASI joint workshop from December 3–4, 2015 in Canberra, Australia. A delegation of 15 distinguished German immunologists discussed the workshop topic “immune regulation in infections and immune mediated diseases” with the aim to establish new German‐Australasian collaborations, discuss new concepts in the field of immune regulation and build a scientific network to create more utilizable resources for excellent (trans‐border) immunological research. The workshop was associated with the 45th Annual Scientific Meeting of the ASI held from Nov 29–Dec 3, 2015, opening up even more opportunities for finding new collaboration partners. A return meeting will be linked to the annual DGfI meeting that will take place in 2017 in Erlangen.
Comprehensive study on critical micellar concentrations of SDS in acetonitrile–water solvents
Authors: Šteflová Jana , Štefl Martin , Walz Sarah , Knop Michael , Trapp Oliver
Published: February 2016

The CMC is one of the fundamental characteristics of surfactants and its determination is crucial for detail understanding of micelles formation. In this study the CMC of SDS in presence of ACN was determined by two independent experimental techniques, capillary electrophoresis and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS). Yet, studies of SDS micellization in solutions containing ACN as organic modifier are sparse and inconsistent in literature. The measurements were performed for various ACN contents in the range of 0–50% v/v. At ACN contents of up to 10% v/v the CMC is lower when compared to the aqueous solution, while increasing ACN content causes a significant increase of the CMC. Formation of micelles was observed up to ACN concentrations of 35% v/v, which is in contrast to most of the reports in literature. Based on the results of the FCS experiments, we were able to confirm that presence of ACN causes a gradual increase of the size of the micelles with increasing concentration of SDS. Simultaneously, we proved that the classical conductivity approach for the determination of the CMC does not yield reliable results in the presence of higher content of an organic modifier such as ACN.
Improved production of citric acid by Yarrowia lipolytica using oleic acid as the oxygen‐vector and co‐substrate
Authors: Liu Xiaoyan , Xu Jiaxing , Xia Jun , Lv Jinshun , Wu Zhen , Deng Yuanfang
Published: February 2016

Yarrowia lipolytica is able to secrete large amounts of citric acid (CA), which is greatly affected by the dissolved oxygen concentration (DOC) in the fermentation medium. In this study, oleic acid was selected as oxygen‐vector to improve DOC during CA fermentation. When 2% (v/v) of oleic acid was added to the culture broth, higher DOC (>42.1%) was determined throughout the CA synthesis phase. The yield of CA reached a maximum of 32.1 g/L (25.4% higher than the control) and the biomass was 8.8 g/L. The substrate uptake rate, products formation rate and key enzyme activities were also determined, and the results indicated that CA synthesis was strengthened with oleic acid addition. Furthermore, it was detected that oleic acid could be assimilated by the cells, which means that oleic acid could be served both as oxygen‐vector and co‐substrate for CA synthesis by Y. lipolytica. In a bioreactor with working volume of 3 L, the highest concentration of CA reached to 36. 4 g/L in the presence of 2% (v/v) oleic acid after 192 h of fermentation. These results confirmed that oleic acid could be applied in the large‐scale production of CA by Y. lipolytica.
Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) of cow manure: Carbon and nitrogen distributions in HTC products
Authors: Toufiq Reza M. , Freitas Ally , Yang Xiaokun , Hiibel Sage , Lin Hongfei , Coronella Charles J.
Published: February 2016

In this study, cow manure was hydrothermally carbonized (HTC) at 180°C–260°C for 5 and 30 min. Mass and elemental (carbon and nitrogen) balances were performed for each HTC reaction condition. Fuel, fertilizer, and nutrient recovery potential of HTC products are evaluated and discussed. In terms of mass loss, dehydration, and energy densification, cow manure is shown to be relatively less reactive than lignocellulosic biomass in HTC. Ash‐free HHV for hydrochar increased up to a maximum of 22.1 MJ/kg from 19.1 MJ/kg. NPK values of the hydrochar are approximately 20:20:3. Significant amounts of phosphorous and other minerals were absorbed by the solid char from the liquid phase during reaction between 5 and 30 min reaction time. HTC process liquid pH was slightly acidic to neutral, and contains organic acids, sugars, and some amino acids. About half of the nitrogen and most of the potassium are dissolved in the liquid product. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 35: 1002–1011, 2016
High order numerical simulation of the thermal load on a lobed strut injector for scramjet applications
Authors: Simsont Yann Hendrik , Gerlinger Peter
Published: February 2016

In this paper, the thermal load on an actively cooled lobed strut injector for scramjet (supersonic combustion ramjet) applications is investigated numerically. This requires coupled simulations of the strut internal and external flow fields together with the heat conduction in the solid injector body. In order to achieve a fast mixing, the lobed strut is positioned at the channel axis to inject hydrogen into the core of a Mach 3 air stream. There it is exposed to the extremely high temperatures of the high speed flow. While the external air and hydrogen flows are supersonic, the strut internal hydrogen flow is mainly subsonic, in some regions at very low Mach numbers. To enable a simulation of the internal flow field which ranges from very low to very high Mach numbers (approximately Mach 2.25 at the nozzle exit), a preconditioning technique is employed. The compressible finite‐volume scheme uses a spatially fourth order multi‐dimensional limiting process discretization, which is used here for a first time to simulate a geometrically and fluid mechanically highly complex problem. It will be demonstrated that besides its high accuracy the multi‐dimensional limiting process scheme is numerically stable even in case of demanding practical applications. The coupled simulation of the lobed strut injector delivers unique insight into the flow phenomena inside and outside the strut, the heat fluxes, the temperature distribution in the solid material, the required hydrogen mass flux with respect to cooling requirements and details concerning the conditions at the exit of the injector. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Crude Oil and Agricultural Futures: An Analysis of Correlation Dynamics
Authors: Silvennoinen Annastiina , Thorp Susan
Published: February 2016

Correlations between oil and agricultural commodities have varied over previous decades, impacted by renewable fuels policy and turbulent economic conditions. We estimate smooth transition conditional correlation models for 12 agricultural commodities and WTI crude oil. While a structural change in correlations occurred concurrently with the introduction of biofuel policy, oil and food price levels are also key influences. High correlation between biofuel feedstocks and oil is more likely to occur when food and oil price levels are high. Correlation with oil returns is strong for biofuel feedstocks, unlike with other agricultural futures, suggesting limited contagion from energy to food markets. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 36:522–544, 2016
Silicate application decreased methane emission from paddy soil under elevated UV‐B radiation
Authors: Yunsheng Lou , Yan Meng , Lixuan Ren , Lei Wu , Yiwei Zhang , Shidi Zhao , Huaiwei Zhu
Published: February 2016

A pot experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of silicate application quantity and silicate fertilizer type on rice growth and methane (CH4) emission under elevated UV‐B radiation. The experiment was designed with two UV‐B radiation levels, i.e., reference UV‐B radiation (Ambient, A, 12.0 kJ·m−2·d−1), and elevated UV‐B radiation (Elevated by 20%, E, 14.4 kJ·m−2·d−1); with four silicate fertilizer levels, i.e., Si0 (no silicate application, 0 kg SiO2·ha−1), Si1 (sodium silicate, 100 kg SiO2·ha−1), Si2 (sodium silicate, 200 kg SiO2·ha−1) and Si3 (slag silicate fertilizer, 200 kg SiO2·ha−1). The results show that, silicate application could mitigate the depressive effect of elevated UV‐B radiation on rice growth and increase the tiller number, and dry weight of shoot and root biomass. Silicate application promoted rice growth, which increased with silicate application quantity (sodium silicate); slag silicate fertilizer was better than sodium silicate in promoting rice growth. Elevated UV‐B radiation could increase the emission flux and accumulative emission of CH4 in rice soil, but silicate application significantly decreased the emission flux and accumulative emission of CH4 and the methane emission decreased with the increase in silicate application quantity. At one silicate application quantity, slag silicate fertilizer was better than sodium silicate in respect of emission reduction effect. This indicates that application of slag silicate fertilizer in rice production can realize waste reuse and can effectively decrease the CH4 emission in rice field under elevated UV‐B radiation. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Distinct neural mechanisms for remembering when an event occurred
Authors: Jenkins Lucas J. , Ranganath Charan
Published: February 2016

Events are often remembered as having occurred in a specific order, but almost nothing is known about how the brain encodes this temporal information. It is commonly assumed that temporal information is encoded via a single mechanism, based either on the temporal context in which the event occurred or inferred from the strength of the memory trace itself. By analyzing time‐dependent changes in activity patterns, we show that the distinctiveness of contextual representations in the hippocampus and anterior and medial prefrontal cortex was associated with accurate recency memory. In contrast, overall activation in the perirhinal and lateral prefrontal cortices predicted whether an object would be judged more recent, regardless of accuracy. These results demonstrate that temporal information was encoded through at least two complementary neural mechanisms. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Use of HPV testing for cervical screening in vaccinated women—Insights from the SHEVa (Scottish HPV Prevalence in Vaccinated Women) study
Authors: Bhatia Ramya , Kavanagh Kimberley , Cubie Heather Ann , Serrano Itziar , Wennington Holli , Hopkins Mark , Pan Jiafeng , Pollock Kevin G , Palmer Tim J , Cuschieri Kate
Published: February 2016

The management of cervical disease is changing worldwide as a result of HPV vaccination and the increasing use of HPV testing for cervical screening. However, the impact of vaccination on the performance of HPV based screening strategies is unknown. The SHEVa (Scottish HPV Prevalence in Vaccinated women) projects are designed to gain insight into the impact of vaccination on the performance of clinically validated HPV assays. Samples collated from women attending for first cervical smear who had been vaccinated as part of a national “catch‐up” programme were tested with three clinically validated HPV assays (2 DNA and 1 RNA). Overall HR‐HPV and type specific positivity was assessed in total population and according to underlying cytology and compared to a demographically equivalent group of unvaccinated women. HPV prevalence was significantly lower in vaccinated women and was influenced by assay‐type, reducing by 23‐25% for the DNA based assays and 32% for the RNA assay (p = 0.0008). All assays showed over 75% reduction of HPV16 and/or 18 (p < 0.0001) whereas the prevalence of non 16/18 HR‐HPV was not significantly different in vaccinated vs unvaccinated women. In women with low grade abnormalities, the proportion associated with non 16/18 HR‐HPV was significantly higher in vaccinated women (p < 0.0001). Clinically validated HPV assays are affected differentially when applied to vaccinated women, dependent on assay chemistry. The increased proportion of non HPV16/18 infections may have implications for clinical performance, consequently, longitudinal studies linking HPV status to disease outcomes in vaccinated women are warranted.
A sorting‐to‐matching method to teach compound matching to sample
Authors: Farber Rachel S. , Dube William V. , Dickson Chata A.
Published: February 2016

Individuals with developmental disabilities may fail to attend to multiple features in compound stimuli (e.g., arrays of pictures, letters within words) with detrimental effects on learning. Participants were 5 children with autism spectrum disorder who had low to intermediate accuracy scores (35% to 84%) on a computer‐presented compound matching task. Sample stimuli were pairs of icons (e.g., chair–tree), the correct comparison was identical to the sample, and each incorrect comparison had one icon in common with the sample (e.g., chair–sun, airplane–tree). A 5‐step tabletop sorting‐to‐matching training procedure was used to teach compound matching. The first step was sorting 3 single pictures; subsequent steps gradually changed the task to compound matching. If progress stalled, tasks were modified temporarily to prompt observing behavior. After tabletop training, participants were retested on the compound matching task; accuracy improved to at least 95% for all children. This procedure illustrates one way to improve attending to multiple features of compound stimuli.
Depth‐dependent stratum corneum permeability in human skin in vitro
Authors: Cadavona John Jay P. , Zhu Hanjiang , Hui Xiaoying , Jung Eui‐Chang , Maibach Howard I.
Published: February 2016

The stratum corneum (SC), a permeable membrane, limits percutaneous penetration. As SC chemical and structural properties responsible for skin barrier function appear depth‐related, we conducted an in vitro dermatopharmacokinetic study on intact and adhesive tape‐stripped skin samples to clarify whether SC is a homogeneous barrier for chemical transport. SC concentration–thickness profiles were determined for four C‐14 labeled model chemicals, panthenol, benzoic acid, paraoxon and butenafine, using the tape‐stripping approach. Data analysis with the unsteady‐state diffusion equation of Fick's second law permitted a chemical diffusion coefficient in SC. To evaluate the consistency of SC permeability from its surface to lower levels, the skin was tape‐stripped five to 10 times to remove the upper cell layers before chemical application, such that diffusion coefficients could be determined from three SC depth levels (0, 5 and 10 tape strips). Results suggested the depth‐dependency of SC permeability to panthenol, benzoic acid and butenafine; the diffusion coefficient of panthenol decreased significantly after the first five tape strips and subsequently remained consistent. A progressive increase in diffusion coefficients of benzoic acid and butenafine was observed as tape‐stripping levels increased. The removal of superficial SC did not result in a significant difference in the paraoxon diffusion coefficient. For individual chemicals, a variation in the diffusion coefficient from SC surface to deeper layers agreed with the change of the diffusion coefficient over time in intact skin. Characterization of the SC properties contributing to the depth‐dependent SC permeability will hopefully provide further insight to skin penetration/decontamination. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Improved cell infiltration of electrospun nanofiber mats for layered tissue constructs
Authors: Mahjour Seyed Babak , Sefat Farshid , Polunin Yevgeniy , Wang Lichen , Wang Hongjun
Published: February 2016

While achieving the spatial organization of cells within 3D assembled nanofiber/cell constructs via nanofiber‐enabled cell layering, the small sizes of inter‐fiber pores of the electrospun nanofiber mats could significantly limit cell penetration across the layers for rapid formation of an integrated tissue construct. To address this challenge, efforts were made to improve cell‐infiltration of electrospun nanofiber mats by modulating the density distribution and spatial organization of the fibers during electrospinning. Collection of collagen‐containing electrospun nanofibers (300–600 nm in diameter) onto the surface of a stainless steel metal mesh (1 mm × 1 mm in mesh size) led to the periodic alternation of fiber density from densely packed to loosely arranged distribution within the same mat, in which the densely packed fibers maintained the structural integrity while the region of loose fibers allowed for cell penetration. Along with improved cell infiltration, the distinct fiber organization between dense and loose fiber regions also induced different morphology of fibroblasts (stellate vs. elongated spindle‐like). Assembly of cell‐seeded nanofiber sheets into 3D constructs with such periodically organized nanofiber mats further demonstrated their advantages in improving cell penetration across layers in comparison to either random or aligned nanofiber mats. Taken together, modulation of nanofiber density to enlarge the pore size is effective to improve cell infiltration through electrospun mats for better tissue formation. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 104A: 1479–1488, 2016.
Comparison of the Automated cobas u 701 Urine Microscopy and UF‐1000i Flow Cytometry Systems and Manual Microscopy in the Examination of Urine Sediments
Authors: Lee Wonmok , Ha Jung‐Sook , Ryoo Nam‐Hee
Published: February 2016

Background

The cobas u 701, a new automated image‐based urine sediment analyzer, was introduced recently. In this study, we compared its performance with that of UF‐1000i flow cytometry and manual microscopy in the examination of urine sediments.

Methods

Precision, linearity, and carry‐over were determined for the two urine sediment analyzers. For a comparison of the method, 300 urine samples were examined by the automated analyzers and by manual microscopy using a KOVA chamber.

Results

Within‐run coefficients of variation (CVs) for the control materials were 7.0–8.8% and 1.7–5.7% for the cobas u 701 and UF‐1000i systems, respectively. Between‐run CVs were 8.5–9.8% and 2.7–5.4%, respectively. Both instruments showed good linearity and negligible carry‐over. For red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC), and epithelial cells (EPI), the overall concordance rates within one grade of difference among the three methods were good (78.6–86.0%, 88.7–93.8%, and 81.3–90.7%, respectively). The concordance rate for casts was poor (66.5–68.9%).

Conclusion

Compared with manual microscopy, the two automated sediment analyzers tested in this study showed satisfactory analytical performances for RBC, WBC, and EPI. However, for other urine sediment particles confirmation by visual microscopy is still required.
Overestimated Arctic warming and underestimated Eurasia mid‐latitude warming in CMIP5 simulations
Authors: Xie Yongkun , Liu Yuzhi , Huang Jianping
Published: February 2016

The surface air temperature (SAT) trends from historical simulations of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) were compared with observations for the period of 1955–2004. The observed spatial pattern of SAT trends was strikingly different from the CMIP5‐historical simulations over mid‐ and high‐latitude Northern Hemisphere. The strongest observed warming for the Eurasian Continent was over mid latitudes. However, the CMIP5 historical simulations indicated enhanced warming over higher latitudes, and the warming trends increased from low to higher latitudes. The zonal mean SAT trends indicated overestimated warming in high‐latitude and underestimated warming in mid‐latitude land over Northern Hemisphere in CMIP5 historical simulations, which resulted in opposite trends in the meridional temperature gradient over high latitudes compared with observations. The overestimated Arctic and underestimated Eurasia mid‐latitude warming only occurred in cold season. Further comparison of the results of CMIP5 models from the Atmospheric Model Intercomparison Project and historical simulations revealed that model bias in sea surface temperature and the exaggerated response of temperature change to Arctic sea ice decline are possible reasons for poorly simulated Arctic and Eurasia mid‐latitude temperature change.
Changes in climate extremes over major river basins of India
Authors: Deshpande N. R. , Kothawale D. R. , Kulkarni A.
Published: February 2016

Temporal changes in the extreme rainfall and temperature characteristics of major river basins on a daily time scale are examined using high‐resolution gridded daily rainfall (1951–2014) and temperature (1951–2013) data sets. Trend analysis is carried out to examine the temporal changes in the frequency, area covered and intensity of the extreme rainfall and temperature events. Rainfall of 10 cm during southwest monsoon season (JJAS), maximum temperature of 40 °C during summer season (MAM) and minimum temperature of 10 °C during the winter season (DJF) have been used as the thresholds to define the extreme weather events of rainfall and temperature data in these river basins. Analysis indicates that during monsoon season zero rainfall days are increasing in all the river basins except some parts of the Krishna and Peninsular river basins. River basins located in the central parts of India show significant increase in the area covered by the heavy rainfall episodes and their intensity. Substantial rise in the monthly maximum temperatures is seen in the Krishna, Peninsular and West Coast river basins. Frequency, area coverage and intensity of hot days during summer season are increasing significantly in the Krishna and Peninsular river basins, while no substantial change has been observed for cold days during winter season in any river basins of the study.
Chromatographic separation of simulants of nerve and blister agents by combining one‐ and two‐channel columns with different stationary phases
Authors: Yuan Huan , Du Xiaosong , Li Yi , Zhao Xulan , Xu Ming
Published: February 2016

A two‐channel gas chromatography column and a single‐channel column were made by deep reactive‐ion etching technology. The two short columns were coated with different stationary phases, and then linked without a modulator. This is to aim at increasing the sample capacity and achieving a higher separation efficiency in complex environments. The results show that the capacity of the connected column is approximately 4 and 1.5 times larger than that of the single‐ and two‐channel columns, respectively. The linked column was utilized to separate a six‐component mixture, composed of three simulants of nerve and blister agents and three interfering vapors. The results demonstrate that the combined column has a remarkably higher separation efficiency than the individual columns, and an acceptable resolution is achieved although the total length of the linked column is only 1.5 m.
Racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities in pituitary surgery outcomes
Authors: Goljo Erden , Parasher Arjun K. , Iloreta Alfred M. , Shrivastava Raj , Govindaraj Satish
Published: February 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

To investigate the association of race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and hospital volume with outcomes in pituitary surgery.

Study Design

Retrospective cross‐sectional study of the 2008‐2012 National (Nationwide) Inpatient Sample.

Methods

Patient demographics, hospital characteristics, postoperative complications, and in‐hospital mortality for patients undergoing pituitary surgery were compared between white, black, and Hispanic patients. Hierarchal logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association of patient and hospital variables on complication rates.

Results

A total of 8,812 patients met the inclusion criteria, and 5,924 (67.2%) patients were white, 1,590 (18.0%) were black, and 1,296 (14.7%) were Hispanic. Black and Hispanic patients were more likely to live in the poorest income areas, be insured with Medicaid, and be treated at lower‐volume pituitary surgery centers. Patients with Medicaid had a higher likelihood of complications compared to Medicare patients, whereas patients with private insurance were significantly less likely to experience any complications. Likelihood of complications was significantly higher for patients treated at lower‐volume pituitary surgery centers. When controlled for patient and hospital characteristics, regression analysis showed that the likelihood of postoperative complications was higher in black and Hispanic patients compared to white patients.

Conclusions

Racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities exist for outcomes after pituitary surgery. Black and Hispanic patients have worse postoperative outcomes compared to white patients, as well as disproportionate utilization of Medicaid and low‐volume pituitary surgery centers. Further investigations are necessary to uncover the sources of these disparities in an effort to provide safer and more affordable care to all patients.

Level of Evidence

2c. Laryngoscope, 126:808–814, 2016
Effects of increased CO2 concentration on nutrient limited coastal summer plankton depend on temperature
Authors: Paul Carolin , Sommer Ulrich , Garzke Jessica , Moustaka‐Gouni Maria , Paul Allanah , Matthiessen Birte
Published: February 2016

Increasing seawater temperature and CO2 concentrations both are expected to increase coastal phytoplankton biomass and carbon to nutrient ratios in nutrient limited seasonally stratified summer conditions. This is because temperature enhances phytoplankton growth while grazing is suggested to be reduced during such bottom‐up controlled situations. In addition, enhanced CO2 concentrations potentially favor phytoplankton species, that otherwise depend on costly carbon concentrating mechanisms (CCM). The trophic consequences for consumers under such conditions, however, remain little understood. We set out to experimentally explore the combined effects of increasing temperature and CO2 concentration for phytoplankton biomass and stoichiometry and the consequences for trophic transfer (here for copepods) on a natural nutrient limited Baltic Sea summer plankton community. The results show, that warming effects were translated to the next trophic level by switching the system from a bottom‐up controlled to a mainly top‐down controlled one. This was reflected in significantly down‐grazed phytoplankton and increased zooplankton abundance in the warm temperature treatment (22.5°C). Additionally, at low temperature (16.5°C) rising CO2 concentrations significantly increased phytoplankton biomass. The latter effect however, was due to direct negative impact of CO2 on copepod nauplii which released phytoplankton from grazing in the cold but not in the warm treatments. Our results suggest that future seawater warming has the potential to switch trophic relations between phytoplankton and their grazers under nutrient limited conditions with the consequence of potentially disguising CO2 effects on coastal phytoplankton biomass.
Aqueous Photoelectrochemical Reduction of Anthraquinone Disulfonate at Organic Polymer Films
Authors: Chowdhury Pankaj , Fortin Patrick , Suppes Graeme , Holdcroft Steven
Published: February 2016

The photoelectrochemistry (PEC) of poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) is investigated by studying the photocathodic reduction of anthraquinone‐2,7‐disulfonate (AQ27DS). A photocurrent of ≈ 100 μA cm−2 is obtained using ≈ 5 × 10−3 m AQ27DS and 100 mW cm−2 visible light. The photon‐to current‐efficiency approaches ≈ 1% when irradiated with low intensity monochromatic light. The photoreduction proceeds by either a 2‐electron, 2‐proton, or 2‐electron, 1‐proton process depending on the solution pH. The band energy levels of P3HT shift by ≈ 150 mV in contact with aqueous solutions over a 1–12 pH range, and considerable more in the presence of AQ27DS during PEC, to the extent that Fermi level pinning occurs. This work reveals that the efficiency of electron–hole separation is required to improve photoefficiency and the interaction of redox couples with the P3HT semiconductor interface is warranted in order to understand the photovoltages developed across the semiconductor/electrolyte interfaces.

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Disposition of flavonoids via recycling: Direct biliary excretion of enterically or extrahepatically derived flavonoid glucuronides
Authors: Zeng Min , Sun Rongjin , Basu Sumit , Ma Yong , Ge Shufan , Yin Taijun , Gao Song , Zhang Jun , Hu Ming
Published: February 2016

Scope

Enterohepatic recycling is often thought to involve mostly phase II metabolites generated in the liver. This study aims to determine if direct biliary excretion of extrahepatically generated glucuronides would also enable recycling.

Methods and results

Conventional and modified intestinal perfusion models along with intestinal and liver microsomes were used to determine the contribution of extrahepatically derived glucuronides. Glucuronidation of four flavonoids (genistein, biochanin A, apigenin, and chrysin at 2.5–20 μM) were generally more rapid in the hepatic than intestinal microsomes. Furthermore, when aglycones (at 10 μM each) were perfused, larger (1.7–9 fold) amounts of glucuronides were found in the bile than in the luminal perfusate. However, higher concentrations of glucuronides were not found in jugular vein than portal vein, and apigenin glucuronide actually displayed a significantly lower concentration in jugular vein (<1 nM) than portal vein (≈4 nM). A direct portal infusion of four flavonoid glucuronides (5.9–10.4 μM perfused at 2 mL/h) showed that the vast majority (>65%) of the glucuronides (except for biochanin A glucuronide) administered were efficiently excreted into the bile.

Conclusion

Direct biliary excretion of extrahepatically generated flavonoid glucuronides is a highly efficient clearance mechanism, which should enable enterohepatic recycling of flavonoids without hepatic conjugating enzymes.
Modulation of leptin resistance by food compounds
Authors: Aragonès Gerard , Ardid‐Ruiz Andrea , Ibars Maria , Suárez Manuel , Bladé Cinta
Published: February 2016

Leptin is mainly secreted by white adipose tissue and regulates energy homeostasis by inhibiting food intake and stimulating energy expenditure through its action in neuronal circuits in the brain, particularly in the hypothalamus. However, hyperleptinemia coexists with the loss of responsiveness to leptin in common obese conditions. This phenomenon has been defined as leptin resistance and the restoration of leptin sensitivity is considered to be a useful strategy to treat obesity. This review summarizes the existing literature on potentially valuable nutrients and food components to reverse leptin resistance. Notably, several food compounds, such as teasaponins, resveratrol, celastrol, caffeine, and taurine among others, are able to restore the leptin signaling in neurons by overexpressing anorexigenic peptides (proopiomelanocortin) and/or repressing orexigenic peptides (neuropeptide Y/agouti‐related peptide), thus decreasing food intake. Additionally, some nutrients, such as vitamins A and D, can improve leptin transport through the blood–brain barrier. Therefore, food components can improve leptin resistance by acting at different levels of the leptin pathway; moreover, some compounds are able to target more than one feature of leptin resistance. However, systematic studies are necessary to define the actual effectiveness of each compound.
Prospective heart tracking for whole‐heart magnetic resonance angiography
Authors: Moghari Mehdi H. , Geva Tal , Powell Andrew J.
Published: February 2016

Purpose

To develop a prospective respiratory‐gating technique (Heart‐NAV) for use with contrast‐enhanced three‐dimensional (3D) inversion recovery (IR) whole‐heart magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) acquisitions that directly tracks heart motion without creating image inflow artifact.

Methods

With Heart‐NAV, one of the startup pulses for the whole‐heart steady‐state free precession MRA sequence is used to collect the centerline of k‐space, and its one‐dimensional reconstruction is fed into the standard diaphragm‐navigator (NAV) signal analysis process to prospectively gate and track respiratory‐induced heart displacement. Ten healthy volunteers underwent non‐contrast whole‐heart MRA acquisitions using the conventional diaphragm‐NAV and Heart‐NAV with 5 and 10‐mm acceptance windows in a 1.5T scanner. Five patients underwent contrast‐enhanced IR whole‐heart MRA using a diaphragm‐NAV and Heart‐NAV with a 5‐mm acceptance window.

Results

For non‐contrast whole‐heart MRA with both the 5 and 10‐mm acceptance windows, Heart‐NAV yielded coronary artery vessel sharpness and subjective visual scores that were not significantly different than those using a conventional diaphragm‐NAV. Scan time for Heart‐NAV was 10% shorter (p < 0.05). In patients undergoing contrast‐enhanced IR whole‐heart MRA, inflow artifact was seen with the diaphragm‐NAV but not with Heart‐NAV.

Conclusion

Compared with a conventional diaphragm‐NAV, Heart‐NAV achieves similar image quality in a slightly shorter scan time and eliminates inflow artifact. Magn Reson Med 77:759–765, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
Spinal Epidural Hematoma Following Cupping Glass Treatment in an Infant With Hemophilia A
Authors: Fruchtman Yariv , Dardik Rima , Barg Assaf Arie , Livnat Tami , Feldman Zeev , Rubinstein Marina , Grinberg Gahl , Rosenberg Nurit , Kenet Gili
Published: February 2016

A 6 months old infant, diagnosed with a rare mutation causing severe hemophilia A, presented with spinal epidural hematoma. Parents later admitted the infant had glass cupping therapy performed within 2 weeks of the onset of symptoms. The rare mutation, rare bleeding complication, and the eventual course of therapy applied in this case will be discussed in our case report.
Renewable building blocks for sustainable polyesters: new biotechnological routes for greener plastics
Authors: Pellis Alessandro , Herrero Acero Enrique , Gardossi Lucia , Ferrario Valerio , Guebitz Georg M
Published: February 2016

The next generation of plastics are expected to contribute to a massive reduction in the carbon footprint by the exploitation, in industrial productive processes, of renewable monomers such as polyols and dicarboxylic acids obtainable via biotechnological production. More specifically, there is a rising demand for advanced polyesters displaying new functional properties while meeting higher sustainability criteria. Polyesters are part of everyday life with applications in clothing, food packaging, car manufacturing and biomedical devices. This review is intended to provide an overview of the array of renewable building blocks already available for synthetic purposes and exploitable in the production of polyesters. Moreover, new greener routes for more environmentally friendly polyester production and processing are discussed, pointing out the major technological challenges. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Experimental (FT‐IR) and theoretical (DFT) studies on prototropy and H‐bond formation for pyrazine‐2‐amidoxime
Authors: Głębocka Angelika , Raczyńska Ewa D. , Chylewska Agnieszka , Makowski Mariusz
Published: February 2016

The results of the first structural studies (with the use of both experimental and theoretical methods) on pyrazine‐2‐amidoxime (PAOX) were shown and discussed. FT‐IR spectra were recorded in different concentrations of the PAOX in apolar solvent to check the possibility of the inter‐ or intramolecular hydrogen‐bond formation. All possible tautomers–rotamers of PAOX were then theoretically considered at the DFT(B3LYP)/6‐311+G** level in vacuo. For selected isomers, calculations were also performed at higher levels of theory {B3LYP/6‐311+G(3df,2p) and G3B3}. Based on the results of DFT calculations, the most stable isomers were found, and their total free energies and infrared spectra were calculated. The energy variation plots for the N8C7N9O10 and N1C2C7N9 dihedral angles were also computed to find two energy barriers, one for E/Z isomerization around the C7N9 double bond and the other one for rotation of the pyrazinyl ring around the C2C7 single bond. The results show that the stability of the PAOX isomers strongly depend on their configuration and orientation of the substituents. The possibilities of inter‐ and intramolecular hydrogen bonds were also experimentally and theoretically checked. Finally, a potential of mean force was determined in CHCl3 for a dimer of PAOX with hexamethylphosphoramide. Both, experimental and theoretical results are in agreement. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Safe, rational prescribing with a focus on polypharmacy
Authors: Ogden Joy
Published: February 2016

Dr Rupert Payne, currently NIHR clinical lecturer in general practice at the University of Cambridge, has been appointed as Prescriber's new consultant editor. Joy Ogden speaks to him on his background and his plans for his new role.
Management of atopic eczema in children
Authors: Phillips Rebecca , Williams Hywel , Ravenscroft Jane
Published: February 2016

Atopic eczema is a common condition, affecting about a fifth of children in the UK. Although the severity varies, it can cause great distress to a child and their family. This article discusses the evidencebased management of atopic eczema in children.
Properties of GLP‐1 agonists and their use in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Chaplin Steve , Bain Stephen
Published: February 2016

There are currently four glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) receptor agonists licensed for use in the treatment of type 2 diabetes in the UK: dulaglutide, exenatide, liraglutide and lixisenatide. Steve Chaplin gives an overview of their indications, mode of administration and adverse effects, and Professor Stephen Bain discusses their current place in therapy.