bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A high-MUFA diet alone does not affect ketone body metabolism, but reduces glycated hemoglobin when combined with exercise training in diabetic rats
Authors: Somboonwong Juraiporn , Huchaiyaphum Khunkhong , Kulaputana Onanong , Prapunwattana Phisit
Published: August 2015

Background

Monounsaturated fat (MUFA) also has glucose-lowering action, but its effect on ketone bodies is unknown.

Objectives

To examine the effects of high-MUFA diet alone or in combination with exercise training, which can improve glucose and ketone body metabolism, in a rat model of diabetes.

Methods

Wistar rats were administered streptozotocin to induce diabetes and then randomly divided into five groups: sedentary rats fed a regular diet (1), a high-saturated-fat diet (2), a high-MUFA diet (3); and exercisetrained rats fed a regular diet (4), and a high-MUFA diet (5). Training was by a treadmill twice daily, 5 days/week. At 12 weeks, glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), insulin, nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), and β-hydroxybutyrate levels were measured in cardiac blood. Activity of the overall ketone synthesis pathway was determined in liver and 3-ketoacyl-CoA transferase activity determined in gastrocnemius muscle.

Results

A high-MUFA diet tended to lower plasma glucose without affecting other biochemical variables. Training did not change glucose metabolism, but significantly reduced serum NEFA. Only the high-MUFA diet plus training significantly decreased HbA1c levels. Hepatic ketone synthesis was decreased and 3-ketoacyl-CoA transferase activity was increased by training alone or in combination with a high-MUFA diet. Changes in NEFA, β-hydroxybutyrate, and the enzymatic activities in response to training plus a high-MUFA diet were comparable to those caused by training alone.

Conclusion

A high-MUFA diet alone does not alter ketone body metabolism. Combination of a MUFA-rich diet and exercise training is more effective than either MUFA or exercise alone for lowering HbA1c.
Short-term outcomes after anterior stapling rectotomy using a single stapler device for rectocele
Authors: Anannamcharoen Sahaphol , Areerattanavet Kanchana
Published: August 2015

Background

Stapled transanal rectal segmental resection (STARR) is a technique for treatment of obstructive defecation syndrome (ODS) when associated with rectocele and/or intussusceptions.

Objectives

To evaluate a simplified method using a single stapler device for isolated anterior rectal wall correction of structural abnormalities (single-STARR technique).

Materials and methods

Patients who were diagnosed with ODS underwent the single-STARR procedure. Their baseline symptoms were measured by using a modified obstructed defecation syndrome (MODS) questionnaire score. Evacuation proctography was performed to exclude functional anorectal disorders. Colonoscopy was selectively performed and for all patients older than 50 years. Single-STARR procedure was performed in cases where there was no evidence of an inflammatory, metabolic, neoplastic process, or functional disorders. The summed global score of ODS ranged from 0 (normal) to 24 (severe). Outcomes were determined by evaluating the postoperative improvement using a MODS score.

Results

A total of 9 patients (mean (SD) age 53 (13.6) years) with ODS were eligible for the study. Both rectocele and intussusceptions were diagnosed from preoperative defecography in 7 of the patients. Single-STARR was successfully performed without intraoperative complications in all patients with a mean operative time of 52 (12.7) min. The mean severity of symptoms decreased significantly at the 3rd and 6th (P < 0.01) month after surgery. However, one-third of patients experienced persistence of symptoms or symptom score deterioration on the 12th month after surgery.

Conclusion

The single-STARR procedure provided short-term symptom relief with no serious postoperative complication in a small series of 9 cases.
Observational study of omeprazole for gastroesophageal reflux on pulmonary function in adult asthmatics
Authors: Jaimchariyatam Nattapong , Haprasert Phurin , Gonchanvit Sutep , Wongtim Somkiat
Published: August 2015

Background

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of airways. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is known to be associated with worsening asthma. We hypothesized that treatment of GERD in asthmatics will improve asthma control and quality of life. We reviewed our experience of treatment of GERD in asthmatics in Thailand.

Objectives

To study the effects of omeprazole for treatment of GERD in patients with poorly controlled asthma on pulmonary function tests and asthma control test (ACT) scores.

Methods

This study was conducted at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital between August 2009 and December 2010. Patients with partly controlled and uncontrolled asthma who were found to have GERD by 24 hour esophageal pH monitoring were administered omeprazole 40 mg per day for 8 weeks. Pulmonary function tests and ACT scores before and after treatment were compared at 4-weeks and 8-weeks follow up.

Results

Twenty four patients were included in this study. None of them had asthmatic attacks during the study. After 4 and 8 weeks of omeprazole treatment, the mean FEV1 (2.20 ± 0.64 L, 2.36 ± 0.58 L, respectively) and the mean ACT score (20.82 ± 3.30, 23.00 ± 1.69, respectively) were significantly higher than the pretreatment values (mean FEV1 1.99 ± 0.56 L and ACT score 16.36 ± 3.97) (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

High-dose omeprazole may improve pulmonary function and the level of asthma control in Thai patients with partly controlled or uncontrolled asthma and coexisting GERD.
Awareness of hepatitis B and C among students of nonmedical universities in Karachi
Authors: Rafiq Ali , Fatima Saba , Masood Beenish , Khan Rizwan Ahmed , Khan Fareeha Ahmed , Liaquat Aimen , Fatima Aelia , Tanveer Mohammad Shahrukh , Sulaiman Mahreen , Hasan Syed Yousuf , Aehtesham Mariam , Khan Sidra
Published: August 2015

Background

Pakistan is highly endemic with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and the incidence of HBV infection is rising steadily. The reasons may include poor public awareness about the transmission of HBV and HCV.

Objectives

To assess the awareness of HBV and HCV among students in nonmedical universities.

Methods

The study instrument was a structured 36 item questionnaire. After obtaining permission from the respective administrations, students were approached within their university campuses and were included by convenience sampling. The results were expressed as frequencies.

Results

Five hundred students from 5 different institutions participated in the survey, with 100 students representing each institute. Most students did not recognize the possible modes of infection of hepatitis B that include reuse of syringes (57.2%), blood transfusions (62.6%), and sexual contact (57.4%). However, most (67.8%) students correctly believe that there is a vaccination available for the prevention of HBV. Most students did not recognize the possible modes of infection of hepatitis C that include reuse of syringes (61.8%), use of intravenous drugs of addiction (71.4%), sexual contact (55.6%), and blood transfusions (55.2%) as possible modes of transmission. Most students (51.8%) incorrectly believed that there is a vaccination available for the prevention of HCV.

Conclusions

There is a prominent lack of awareness regarding the risk factors for HBV and HCV infection among the student community of nonmedical universities in Karachi, and an immediate need to conduct nationwide awareness programs to raise the awareness of HBV and HCV transmission in the Pakistani population exists.
Plasma levels of leptin and ghrelin and their correlation with BMI, and circulating lipids and glucose in obese Tunisian women
Authors: Slama Fethi Ben , Jridi Nahawand , Rayana Mohamed Chiheb Ben , Trimeche Abdelmagid , Hsairi Mohamed , Belhadj Omrane
Published: August 2015

Background

A National Survey on the Effect of Nutrition conducted in 1996−1997 showed a 14% overall prevalence of obesity in Tunisia with a female predominance. Leptin and ghrelin play crucial roles in regulating body weight and energy balance. Leptin, an anorectic hormone, and ghrelin, an orexigenic hormone, appear to interact with glucose and lipid metabolism.

Objectives

To determine the circulating levels of ghrelin and leptin in obese Tunisian women and to investigate the correlations of these hormones with body mass index (BMI), and circulating lipids and glucose.

Methods

Forty obese women were recruited from patients in the “C” Unit of the National Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology. Twenty normal women were recruited as controls. Plasma levels of the studied variables were measured in patients from both groups and findings were analyzed.

Results

Circulating levels of leptin were significantly higher, while high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol and ghrelin levels were significantly lower in the obese women. In the obese women, significant positive correlations were found between circulating levels of leptin and low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol, BMI, and glucose; and ghrelin and HDL-cholesterol. Significant negative correlations were found between circulating levels of leptin and HDL-cholesterol and ghrelin; and ghrelin and leptin, LDL-cholesterol, BMI, and glucose. Multivariate analysis revealed that ghrelin was significantly associated with HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and blood glucose.

Conclusions

The significant negative correlation between leptin and ghrelin suggests that these two hormones may be antagonistic. Increased levels of ghrelin are correlated with decreased circulating levels of HDL-cholesterol and increased levels of LDL-cholesterol.
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis in children: a retrospective study at Srinagarind Hospital, Khon Kaen, Thailand 1992–2012
Authors: Paipool Watuhatai , Sriboonnark Leelawadee
Published: August 2015

Background

Stevens–Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are life-threatening skin conditions with an etiology of drug exposure or infections.

Objectives

To determine the cause, treatments, complications, and outcomes of SJS/TEN in children admitted to Srinagrind Hospital during 1992–2012.

Methods

Retrospective chart review. A diagnosis of SJS and TEN was confirmed by pediatric dermatologists.

Results

A total of 38 patients was recorded. They consisted 31 (82%) SJS patients and 7 (18%) TEN patients. Mean age 6.6 years (range 1 to 14 years). Male to female was 1.1:1. Most cases (30 or 79%) were caused by drug exposure. Three cases (8%) by infection, and 5 cases (13%) were of unknown cause. The antiepileptic drug group was the most common cause. Systemic corticosteroids were used in 33 cases (87%). Intravenous immunoglobulin was used in one TEN patient (3%). There were 18 cases (47%) with acute complications. Ocular complications (7 cases, 39%), septicemia (4 cases, 22%), and secondary skin infections (3 cases, 17%) were the most common. Mean difference in length of hospital stay between those with and without acute complications was 12.3 days (P < 0.01, 95% CI 5.9–18.6). Ocular complications were the only long-term complications at 1-year follow up, and included symblepharon, corneal pannus, and dry eyes. Two patients (5%), both having cases of TEN, died.

Conclusions

Antiepileptic drugs were the most common causes of SJS/TEN in our study. Good ophthalmologic care of the prevalent acute eye complications in these patients is needed to prevent long-term ophthalmic complications.
Identification of a mitochondrial 12S rRNA A1555G mutation causing aminoglycoside-induced deafness in a large Thai family
Authors: Chaiyasap Pongsathorn , Srichomthong Chalurmpon , Tongkobpetch Siraprapa , Suphapeetiporn Kanya , Shotelersuk Vorasuk
Published: August 2015

Background

Hearing loss is among the most frequent sensory disorders. Preventable causes include medications given to genetically susceptible individuals. Several families around the world with an A1555G mitochondrial mutation who became profoundly deaf after receiving aminoglycosides have been described. However, none has been reported in Thailand.

Objectives

To identify the cause of hearing loss of a large Thai family with 11 members who reportedly turned deaf after receiving antibiotics.

Methods

We obtained blood samples from 5 members; 4 of whom had hearing loss. Mutation analyses were performed using molecular techniques including polymerase chain reaction, Sanger sequencing, and restriction fragment length polymorphism.

Results

All 4 affected members were found to harbor the same A1555G mitochondrial mutation, while the unaffected had only the wild-type A.

Conclusions

We have identified the mitochondrial mutation leading to aminoglycoside-induced hearing loss in a Thai population. Raising awareness for medical practitioners of this genetic susceptibility in Thailand is warranted. Avoidance of certain medications in these individuals would prevent this acquired permanent hearing loss.
Liefde met hindernissen
Authors: Kok J.
Published: August 2015

Love with hurdles. On undesirable relationships in the past

This articles offers an overview of four centuries of ‘forbidden relations’ in The Netherlands. From the late sixteenth century onwards, the dominant Calvinist church tried to ‘purify’ the Dutch nation by persecuting all forms of fornication, adultery, incest, and sodomy. The French period (1795-1813) separated church and state, and removed several forms of forbidden relations from the penal code. But social control on relations remained intense. An ‘ideal’ marriage was based on equality of the spouses in terms of social background, religion and age. Parents as well as the local community made sure young people made the ‘right’ choice. Competition between religious groups intensified in the late nineteenth century and mixed marriages became even more problematic. In the 1960s and 1970s all this began to change, and many rules and norms regarding partner choice were relaxed. An example of the changes over time are unmarried cohabitations which transformed from a crime (sanctioned by banishment) to deviant behaviour (sanctions through withholding poor relief) to a more or less normative ‘trial marriage’.
De liefjes van prostituees: pooiers of partners?
Authors: Verhoeven M. , van Gestel B.
Published: August 2015

The loves of sex workers: pimps or partners?

In this article we show what relationships may exist between sex workers and their partners. These relationships are diverse and sometimes complex by the presence of both intimacy and intimidation or violence. From the women’s perspective these relationships are not primarily defined as ‘violent’ and ‘involuntary’, they also provide them love, protection and security. From a governments perspective with a focus on human trafficking and exploitation of sex workers, these relationships are quickly mistrusted. In the latest measures to prevent exploitation, all sex workers are questioned about their relationships. Although this may be important for the identification of potential exploitation, in practice the opposite happens: women keep silent about their relationships towards government officials. In other words, an increasing focus on combating exploitation may enforce the stigma on relationships of sex workers.
Het verbod op het neef-nichthuwelijk
Authors: Priem J.
Published: August 2015

The prohibition of cousin marriages. Attitudes of Turkish and Moroccan Dutch youngsters

This article describes the attitudes of Turkish and Moroccan Dutch regarding cousin marriages, using two qualitative studies. Last year the Lower House of the Dutch parliament passed a bill involving a ban of cousin marriages. The main reason for the ban is that many of these marriages are supposed to be concluded forcibly. The new law will mostly affect immigrant groups, since such marriages occur frequently in this population. This article describes the significance for the enforceability of the ban for these groups as well as the attitudes towards cousin marriage. Legitimacy problems seem to arise because a part of the Turkish and Moroccan Dutch respondents feel that the state should not interfere with the individual choice for a marriage partner. Yet there is also evidence for regulatory compliance on normative grounds, even among those who oppose the bans, due to democratic procedures and religious norms.
The Devil is in the Details: When Holistic Thinkers React Negatively to Incongruent Information
Authors: Chinchanachokchai Sydney , Noel Hayden
Published: August 2015

This research examines the effects of thinking styles (holistic vs. analytic) and different levels of information congruity on product evaluations. Two experimental studies show that presenting more details in a message matches the analytic thinking style, thus leading to higher evaluations of extremely incongruent information, from analytic thinkers and lower evaluations from holistic thinkers. Keywords: Thinking Styles, Information Processing, Advertising, Congruent Message, Schema Congruity To cite this document: Sydney Chinchanachokchai and Hayden Noel, "The Devil is in the Details: When Holistic Thinkers React Negatively to Incongruent Information", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.11, No.1, pp.25-34, 2015. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.13853
Measuring Mitochondrial Membrane Potential with a Tetraphenylphosphonium‐Selective Electrode
Authors: Moreno António J. , Santos Dario L. , Magalhães‐Novais Sílvia , Oliveira Paulo J.
Published: August 2015

Mitochondrial bioenergetics is based on the generation of the protonmotive force by the electron transport chain. The protonmotive force is used by mitochondria for different critical aspects of its normal function, ranging from calcium accumulation to the synthesis of ATP. The transmembrane electric potential (ΔΨ) is the major component of the protonmotive force and is also the main responsible for ATP synthesis by mitochondrial ATP synthase. Although several methods can be used to measure the ΔΨ, the use of the tetraphenylphosphonium cation (TPP+)‐selective electrode is still a method of election due to its sensitivity. The method is based on the accumulation of TPP+ by energized mitochondria, which develop a negative charge in the matrix due to the ejection of protons. This unit describes how to build a custom‐made TPP+‐selective electrode and how to establish the necessary set‐up to follow ΔΨ fluctuations in isolated mitochondrial fractions. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Digital signal processing for ionospheric propagation diagnostics
Authors: Rino Charles L. , Groves Keith M. , Carrano Charles S. , Gunter Jacob H. , Parris Richard T.
Published: August 2015

For decades, analog beacon satellite receivers have generated multifrequency narrowband complex data streams that could be processed directly to extract total electron content (TEC) and scintillation diagnostics. With the advent of software‐defined radio, modern digital receivers generate baseband complex data streams that require intermediate processing to extract the narrowband modulation imparted to the signal by ionospheric structure. This paper develops and demonstrates a processing algorithm for digital beacon satellite data that will extract TEC and scintillation components. For algorithm evaluation, a simulator was developed to generate noise‐limited multifrequency complex digital signal realizations with representative orbital dynamics and propagation disturbances. A frequency‐tracking procedure is used to capture the slowly changing frequency component. Dynamic demodulation against the low‐frequency estimate captures the scintillation. The low‐frequency reference can be used directly for dual‐frequency TEC estimation.
Using scaling for macroweather forecasting including the pause
Authors: Lovejoy S.
Published: August 2015

The ScaLIng Macroweather model (SLIMM) is a new class of stochastic atmospheric model. It exploits the large system memory to overcome the biases of conventional numerical climate models, it makes hindcasts and forecasts over macroweather forecast horizons (≈10 days to decades). Using the simplest (scalar), SLIMM model with only two parameters, we present various twentieth century hindcasts including several of the slowdown (“pause”) in the warming since 1998. The 1999–2013 hindcast is accurate to within ±0.11 K, with all the 2002–2013 anomalies hindcast to within ±0.02 K. In comparison, the Climate Model Intercomparison Project Phase 3 hindcasts were on average about 0.2 K too warm.
Virtual reconstruction of the Neanderthal Amud 1 cranium
Authors: Amano Hideki , Kikuchi Takeo , Morita Yusuke , Kondo Osamu , Suzuki Hiromasa , Ponce de León Marcia S. , Zollikofer Christoph P.E. , Bastir Markus , Stringer Chris , Ogihara Naomichi
Published: August 2015

Objectives

We describe a new computer reconstruction to obtain complete anatomical information of the ecto‐ and endocranium from the imperfectly preserved skull of the Neanderthal Amud 1.

Materials and Methods

Data were obtained from computed tomography scans of the fossil cranium. Adhesive and plaster were then virtually removed from the original specimen, and the fragments comprising the fossil cranium were separated. These fragments were then mathematically reassembled based on the smoothness of the joints. Both sides of the cranium were reassembled separately, and then aligned based on bilateral symmetry and the distance between the mandibular fossae obtained from the associated mandible. The position of the isolated maxilla was determined based on the position of the mandible that was anatomically articulated to the mandibular fossae. To restore missing basicranial and damaged endocranial regions, the cranium of Forbes’ Quarry 1 was warped onto that of La Chapelle‐aux‐Saints 1, and the resulting composite Neanderthal cranium was then warped onto the reconstructed Amud 1 by an iterative thin‐plate spline deformation.

Results

Comparison of the computer reconstruction with the original indicated that the newly reconstructed Amud 1 cranium was slightly shorter and wider in the anteroposterior and mediolateral directions, respectively, suggesting that it was relatively more brachycephalic. The endocranial volume was estimated to be 1,736 cm3, which was quite similar to the original estimated value of 1,740 cm3.

Discussion

This new computer reconstruction enables not only measurement of new cranial metrics, but also inclusion of the Amud 1 specimen in three‐dimensional geometric morphometric analyses that were previously difficult due to its incompleteness. Am J Phys Anthropol 158:185–197, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Annealing‐promoted unidirectional migration of organic‐modified nanoparticles embedded two‐dimensionally in polymer thin films
Authors: Liu Yang , Kato Takumi , Kubo Masaki , Sugioka Ken‐Ichi , Tsukada Takao , Takami Seiichi , Adschiri Tadafumi
Published: August 2015

The spatial structures of oleic acid‐modified CeO2 nanoparticles in polystyrene (PS) thin films spin‐coated on silicon substrates were observed by transmission electron microscopy, when the films underwent thermal annealing above the glass‐transition temperature of PS. Before annealing, the nanoparticles have segregated to the surface of the films, and formed two‐dimensional spatial structures in the PS films. Then, the nanoparticles migrated away from the film surface to the substrate/film interface during thermal annealing, maintaining the two‐dimensional spatial structures. In addition, we demonstrated that such unidirectional migration of nanoparticles across the PS film occurs regardless of the characteristics of the substrate surface, the concentration of nanoparticles, and the thickness of the films. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42760.
Magnetic core/shell Fe3O4/Au nanoparticles for studies of quinolones binding to protein by fluorescence spectroscopy
Authors: Jin Rui , Song Daqian , Xiong Huixia , Ai Lisha , Ma Pinyi , Sun Ying
Published: August 2015

Magnetic core/shell Fe3O4/Au nanoparticles were used in the determination of drug binding to bovine serum albumin (BSA) using a fluorescence spectroscopic method. The binding constants and number of binding sites for protein with drugs were calculated using the Scatchard equation. Because of their superparamagnetic and biocompatible characteristics, magnetic core/shell Fe3O4/Au nanoparticles served as carrier proteins for fixing proteins. After binding of the protein to a drug, the magnetic core/shell Fe3O4/Au nanoparticles–protein–drug complex was separated from the free drug using an applied magnetic field. The free drug concentration was obtained directly by fluorescence spectrometry and the proteins did not influence the drug determination. So, the achieved number of binding sites should be reliable. The binding constant and site number for ciprofloxacin (CPFX) binding to BSA were 2.055 × 105 L/mol and 31.7, and the corresponding values for norfloxacin (NOR) binding to BSA were 1.383 × 105 L/mol and 38.8. Based on the achieved results, a suitable method was proposed for the determination of binding constants and the site number for molecular interactions. The method was especially suitable for studies on the interactions of serum albumin with the active ingredients of Chinese medicine. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modelle für den Wandel der Natur
Authors: Filz Katharina
Published: August 2015

Der Klimawandel beeinflusst Ökosysteme auf allen Ebenen. Veränderungen in der Phänologie und der Verbreitung einzelner Arten sowie im Zusammenleben von Artengemeinschaften stellen bereits Reaktionen auf steigende Temperaturen dar. Nischenmodelle finden heute vielfach in der angewandten Makroökologie Verwendung. Sie ermöglichen es, die Klimanische einer Art anhand von Umweltinformationen innerhalb ihrer realisierten Verbreitung zu quantifizieren und über Raum und Zeit zu projizieren. In der Klimawandelfolgenforschung werden Nischenmodelle genutzt, um Reaktionen einzelner Arten, wie Arealexpansionen oder ‐retraktionen, sowie Veränderungen in der Struktur und Funktion von Artengemeinschaften zu verfolgen. Nischenmodelle stellen darüber hinaus im Naturschutz ein wichtiges Planungsinstrument bei der Auswahl und Evaluation geeigneter Schutzgebietsflächen dar. Sie sind zudem in der Invasionsbiologie ein wesentlicher Bestandteil von Risikoanalysen zur Abschätzung des Ausbreitungspotenzials gebietsfremder Arten.
Evaluation of the influence of salt processing on pharmacokinetics of psoralen and isopsoralen in Psoralea corylifolia L.
Authors: Gao Qian qian , Yan Cui ping , Xu Zi sheng , Wu Yu , Weng Ze bin , Zhao Gen hua , Zhang Liu jie , He Jia yu , Cai Bao chang , Chen Zhi peng , Li Wei dong
Published: August 2015

A sensitive, specific and rapid ultra‐high‐pressure liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐MS/MS) method has been developed to investigate pharmacokinetic properties of psoralen and isopsoralen, two compounds isolated from raw/salt‐processed fruit of Psoralea corylifolia L. UHPLC‐MS/MS was used with positive ion electrospray. The mobile phase was composed of acetonitrile and 0.1% formic acid aqueous solution and a gradient elution program at flow rate of 0.3 mL/min was applied. Multiple reaction monitoring mode was used for the quantification of psoralen, isopsoralen ([M + H]+ m/z 187.0 → m/z 131.0) and scoparone (m/z 207.0 → m/z 151.1). Scoparone served as an internal standard. The method was fully validated for its sensitivity, selectivity, stability, matrix effect and extraction recovery. The obtained results showed that salt‐processed Buguzhi significantly promoted the absorption of psoralen and isopsoralen, and increased the bioavailability of these compounds. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Treatment of nocturnal leg cramps by blockade of the medial branch of the deep peroneal nerve after lumbar spine surgery
Authors: Imura Takayuki , Inoue Gen , Nakazawa Toshiyuki , Miyagi Masayuki , Saito Wataru , Uchida Kentaro , Namba Takanori , Shirasawa Eiki , Takahira Naonobu , Takaso Masashi
Published: August 2015

Introduction

Patients with lumbar spine disease sometimes complain of nocturnal leg cramps. We sought to investigate the effectiveness of blocking the medial branch of the deep peroneal nerve as treatment for nocturnal leg cramps after spinal surgery for lumbar spine disease.

Methods

We evaluated 66 postoperative patients in this prospective comparative study of a group of patients with a nerve block (n = 41) and a control group without (n = 25). In the block group, the medial branch of the deep peroneal nerve was blocked at the distal two‐thirds of the interspace between the first and second metatarsals using 5.0 mL of 1.0% lidocaine.

Results

Two weeks after the block, the frequency of nocturnal leg cramps was reduced to less than a quarter of pretreatment baseline frequency in 61.0% of patients (n = 25) and less than half in 80.5% (n = 33). In the control group, the frequency of the leg cramps was reduced from baseline in 32.0% of patients (n = 8), and was unchanged or increased in 68.0% (n = 17) at 2 weeks. Cramp frequency was reduced to less than a quarter or less than half of baseline frequency in a significantly (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively) larger percentage of patients in the block group. The severity of each cramp was less in about two‐thirds of patients (63.4%; n = 26) in the block group and was unchanged in one‐third (31.7%; n = 13).

Conclusions

Blocking the medial branch of the peroneal nerve can be an effective, long‐lasting, and simple treatment with low risk for nocturnal cramps sustained after lumbar spine surgery.
Substantial Receptor‐induced Structural Rearrangement of Rotavirus VP8*: Potential Implications for Cross‐Species Infection
Authors: Yu Xing , Mishra Rahul , Holloway Gavan , von Itzstein Mark , Coulson Barbara S. , Blanchard Helen
Published: August 2015

Rotavirus–cell binding is the essential first step in rotavirus infection. This binding is a major determinant of rotavirus tropism, as host cell invasion is necessary to initiate infection. Initial rotavirus–cell interactions are mediated by carbohydrate‐recognizing domain VP8* of the rotavirus capsid spike protein VP4. Here, we report the first observation of significant structural rearrangement of VP8* from human and animal rotavirus strains upon glycan receptor binding. The structural adaptability of rotavirus VP8* delivers important insights into how human and animal rotaviruses utilize the wider range of cellular glycans identified as VP8* binding partners. Furthermore, our studies on rotaviruses with atypical genetic makeup provide information expected to be critical for understanding the mechanisms of animal rotavirus gene emergence in humans and support implementation of epidemiologic surveillance of animal reservoirs as well as future vaccination schemes.
Mechanistic Investigation on Oxygen Transfer with the Manganese‐Salen Complex
Authors: Bogaerts Thomas , Wouters Sebastian , Van Der Voort Pascal , Van Speybroeck Veronique
Published: August 2015

The best‐known application of salen complexes is the use of a chiral ligand loaded with manganese to form the Jacobsen complex. This organometallic catalyst is used in the epoxidation of unfunctionalized olefins and can achieve very high selectivities. Although this application was proposed many years ago, the mechanism of oxygen transfer remains a question until now. In this paper, the epoxidation mechanism is investigated by an ab initio kinetic modeling study. First of all a proper DFT functional is selected that yields the correct ordering of the various spin states. Our results show that the epoxidation proceeds via a radical intermediate. If we start from the radical intermediate, these results can explain the experiments with radical probes. The subtle influences in the transition state using the full Jacobsen catalyst explain the product distribution observed experimentally.
Chirality Transfer in Gold(I)‐Catalysed Direct Allylic Etherifications of Unactivated Alcohols: Experimental and Computational Study
Authors: Barker Graeme , Johnson David G. , Young Paul C. , Macgregor Stuart A. , Lee Ai‐Lan
Published: August 2015

Gold(I)‐catalysed direct allylic etherifications have been successfully carried out with chirality transfer to yield enantioenriched, γ‐substituted secondary allylic ethers. Our investigations include a full substrate‐scope screen to ascertain substituent effects on the regioselectivity, stereoselectivity and efficiency of chirality transfer, as well as control experiments to elucidate the mechanistic subtleties of the chirality‐transfer process. Crucially, addition of molecular sieves was found to be necessary to ensure efficient and general chirality transfer. Computational studies suggest that the efficiency of chirality transfer is linked to the aggregation of the alcohol nucleophile around the reactive π‐bound Au–allylic ether complex. With a single alcohol nucleophile, a high degree of chirality transfer is predicted. However, if three alcohols are present, alternative proton transfer chain mechanisms that erode the efficiency of chirality transfer become competitive.
Bifurcation analysis and multiplicity of steady states in a multistage agitated contactor for gas‐liquid processes
Authors: Zhang Lifeng , Pan Qinmin , Rempel Garry L.
Published: August 2015

In this work, a bifurcation analysis of steady states in a multistage agitated contactor (MAC) was conducted for typical gas‐liquid processes. A cascade of stirred tank reactors with a backflow was used to model the reactive flow in the MAC, and second‐order reaction kinetics was employed to represent typical gas‐liquid processes. In the developed model, the effect of temperature on gas solubility was taken into account. The multiplicity behaviour of steady states in such a reactor was investigated using a continuation method. Nonlinearity behaviours such as limit points and Hopf points were detected under various process parameters investigated in this work. A stability analysis was also conducted to determine whether the multiple steady state solutions observed were stable. The results suggested that a medium adiabatic temperature rise and small temperature difference are preferred to avoid system instability in operating such reactors.
Droplet size scaling in a turbulent pipeline flow
Authors: Eskin Dmitry
Published: August 2015

The changes of a droplet breakup regime at transition from an inertial to a viscous turbulence subrange are analyzed for pipe flow. Equations for evaluation of the maximum droplet size in both breakup regimes, as well as conditions for the breakup regime transition, are formulated as functions of the Reynolds and Weber numbers for a pipeline flow. Numerical values for the coefficients of the equations derived are estimated.
High CO2/CH4 Selectivity of a Flexible Copper(II) Porous Coordination Polymer under Humid Conditions
Authors: Noro Shin‐ichiro , Matsuda Ryotaro , Hijikata Yuh , Inubushi Yasutaka , Takeda Sadamu , Kitagawa Susumu , Takahashi Yukiko , Yoshitake Masashi , Kubo Kazuya , Nakamura Takayoshi
Published: August 2015

The development of highly efficient CO2 separation materials is very important for environmental preservation and energy conservation. Crystalline porous coordination polymers (PCPs)/metal–organic frameworks are one of a number of promising types of porous materials for CO2 separation because of their controllable pore size, shape and surface function. Simultaneously, the unique structural flexibility of PCPs affords both high CO2 selectivity and inexpensive regeneration. However, this family of materials suffers from the coexistence of water that destroys the framework of PCPs and its adsorption in the pores is greater than that of CO2, which results in a deterioration in CO2‐separation performance. Herein, a flexible and hydrophobic CuII PCP that is stable towards water has been designed and synthesised. This PCP has extremely high adsorption selectivity for CO2 over CH4, derived from its structural flexibility. Furthermore, the obtained water‐tolerant flexible PCP, under CO2/CH4 mixed‐gas conditions, exhibits highly selective CO2 adsorption over CH4, even in the presence of water.
ICOS regulates the pool of group 2 innate lymphoid cells under homeostatic and inflammatory conditions in mice
Authors: Paclik Daniela , Stehle Christina , Lahmann Annette , Hutloff Andreas , Romagnani Chiara
Published: August 2015

Group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) are innate effectors playing an important role in the defense against helminthic infections and in the pathogenesis of allergic inflammation. Cytokines have been identified as the major stimuli driving ILC2 activation and expansion. Conversely, it is unclear whether costimulatory molecules contribute to regulation of ILC2 functions. ILC2s display high expression of inducible T‐cell costimulator (ICOS), which belongs to the CD28 superfamily, and which has been shown to control late effector T‐cell functions, and is of utmost importance for the humoral immune response. However, the biological function of ICOS expression on ILC2s is unknown. Here, we show that ICOS signaling in mice regulates ILC2 homeostasis independently of T cells and B cells, by promoting proliferation and accumulation of mature ILC2s in lung and intestine. In a model of IL‐33‐induced airway inflammation, ICOS controls ILC2 activation and eosinophil infiltration in the lung. Our data identify a role of ICOS in innate immunity and indicate that not only cytokines, but also costimulatory pathways such as those involving ICOS, can contribute to regulate the ILC2 pool. Thus, ICOS costimulation blockade, which is currently under clinical evaluation for inhibiting the humoral immune response, could also target innate inflammatory circuits.
An in vitro human skin test for assessing sensitization potential
Authors: Ahmed S. S. , Wang X. N. , Fielding M. , Kerry A. , Dickinson I. , Munuswamy R. , Kimber I. , Dickinson A. M.
Published: August 2015

Sensitization to chemicals resulting in an allergy is an important health issue. The current gold‐standard method for identification and characterization of skin‐sensitizing chemicals was the mouse local lymph node assay (LLNA). However, for a number of reasons there has been an increasing imperative to develop alternative approaches to hazard identification that do not require the use of animals. Here we describe a human in‐vitro skin explant test for identification of sensitization hazards and the assessment of relative skin sensitizing potency. This method measures histological damage in human skin as a readout of the immune response induced by the test material. Using this approach we have measured responses to 44 chemicals including skin sensitizers, pre/pro‐haptens, respiratory sensitizers, non‐sensitizing chemicals (including skin‐irritants) and previously misclassified compounds. Based on comparisons with the LLNA, the skin explant test gave 95% specificity, 95% sensitivity, 95% concordance with a correlation coefficient of 0.9. The same specificity and sensitivity were achieved for comparison of results with published human sensitization data with a correlation coefficient of 0.91. The test also successfully identified nickel sulphate as a human skin sensitizer, which was misclassified as negative in the LLNA. In addition, sensitizers and non‐sensitizers identified as positive or negative by the skin explant test have induced high/low T cell proliferation and IFNγ production, respectively. Collectively, the data suggests the human in‐vitro skin explant test could provide the basis for a novel approach for characterization of the sensitizing activity as a first step in the risk assessment process. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Serum levels of IFN‐β are associated with days of evolution but not with severity of dengue
Authors: Pech Torres Ramón Enrique , Cedillo Rivera Roberto Manuel , Loroño Pino Maria Alba , Sánchez Burgos Gilma Guadalupe
Published: August 2015

The serum levels of beta interferon (IFN‐β) were evaluated in clinical samples taken in the acute phase of dengue fever for 107 patients during the 2011 dengue outbreak in Yucatán, México. Dengue diagnoses were confirmed by NS1 or IgM/IgG serology in all patients. Average serum IFN‐β levels in patients with dengue fever without warning signs (n = 53) were 140 pg/ml, and 105 pg/ml for patients with warning signs (n = 54). There was no statistically significant difference between IFN‐β levels for the two groups (Mann–Whitney U Test P > 0.05) and no association with warning or mild signs (OR: 0.57; 95%CI: 0.26–1.22) was indicated. Thrombocytopenia was the most prevalent warning sign (91%) in one group of patients (49) with mean 113 pg/ml IFN‐β levels. In contrast, the patients without thrombocytopenia (50) had 126 pg/ml of IFN‐β, but this level was not statistically significant (Mann–Whitney U Test P > 0.05). The average levels of IFN‐β were also found to have statistically similar results, using the 1997 WHO classification system. The amount of IFN‐β at 1–3, 4–6, and 7–9 days after onset of illness, however, did show significant differences (ANOVA P = 0.038) between patients for the 1–3 and 4–6 days pair (Scheffe post‐hoc P = 0.043). These results suggest that serum levels of IFN‐β do not correlate well with the severity of dengue illness, but there is a clear association between changes in IFN‐β levels and the days of evolution during the acute phase of the disease. J. Med. Virol. 88:395–399, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Radiotherapy associated with improved survival for high‐grade sarcoma of the extremity
Authors: Kachare Swapnil D. , Brinkley Jason , Vohra Nasreen A. , Zervos Emmanuel E. , Wong Jan H. , Fitzgerald Timothy L.
Published: August 2015

Background

The impact of radiotherapy on local control in limb‐preserving surgery for high‐risk sarcoma has been well studied. However, the impact of the use and timing of radiation therapy on survival is unclear.

Methods

From 1988 to 2010, patients with Stage III extremity sarcoma were identified within the SEER registry and cohorts were created using propensity score matching between irradiated and non‐irradiated groups.

Results

A total of 2,606 patients were identified, with a median age of 59 years a majority were white (81%), male (54%), received radiotherapy (78%), and had lower extremity (80%) sarcomas. The most common subtype was fibrohistiocytic (29.8%). Patients treated with radiotherapy were younger (57.2 vs. 60.3 years) and differed in subtype compared to those untreated. The matched cohorts were better balanced for all factors. Radiation therapy was associated with a 5% 5‐year survival advantage on univariate analysis for both the unmatched (P = 0.002) and matched cohorts (P = 0.01). On multivariate analysis radiotherapy was associated with a 20% and 30% survival advantage for the matched and unmatched cohorts, respectively (P ≤ 0.02). The timing of radiotherapy did not affect survival.

Conclusions

Radiotherapy, regardless of the timing, is associated with improved survival in high‐risk sarcoma. J. Surg. Oncol. 2015; 112:338–343. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Factor structure and psychometric properties of a French and German shortened version of the Behavioural Inhibition System/Behavioural Activation System scales
Authors: Studer Joseph , Baggio Stéphanie , Mohler‐Kuo Meichun , Daeppen Jean‐Bernard , Gmel Gerhard
Published: August 2015

The Behavioural Inhibition System/Behavioural Activation System scales (BIS/BAS scales) constitute one of the most prominent questionnaires to assess individual differences in sensitivity to punishment and reward. However, some studies questioned its validity, especially that of the French and German translations. The aim of the present study was to re‐evaluate the psychometric characteristics of the BIS/BAS scales in a large sample of French‐ and German‐speaking young Swiss men (N = 5872). Results showed that factor structures previously found in the literature did not meet the standards of fit. Nine items had to be removed to achieve adequate fit statistics in confirmatory factor analysis, yielding a shortened version with four factors: one BIS factor comprising five items and three BAS factors, namely Reward Reactivity, Drive and Fun Seeking, each comprising two items. Convergent validity and group invariance analyses suggest that the shortened BIS/BAS scales constitute a valid and reliable instrument. Researchers interested in assessing individual differences in BIS and BAS reactivity in French‐ and German‐speaking individuals should avoid using the BIS/BAS scales as originally specified. The shortened version may be a sound alternative at least in samples of young adults. Its shorter format may be particularly suited for surveys with constraints on questionnaire length. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Postglacial Landscape Changes and Cryogenic Processes in the Picos de Europa (Northern Spain) Reconstructed from Geomorphological Mapping and Microstructures on Quartz Grains
Authors: Nieuwendam Alexandre , Ruiz‐Fernández Jesús , Oliva Marc , Lopes Vera , Cruces Anabela , da Conceição Freitas Maria
Published: August 2015

A 5.4 m long sediment core was collected from Belbín, a karstic depression dammed by a moraine in a mid‐altitude environment in the Western Massif of the Picos de Europa of the Cantabrian Mountains, northern Spain. 14C AMS dating of the basal sediments in the core suggests that the maximum glacier advance during the last glacial cycle preceded the global Last Glacial Maximum and occurred prior to 37.2 ka cal BP. Four environmental stages are reconstructed from analysis of the sediment core and in particular the surface microstructures on quartz sand grains: (1) 37.2–29.4 ka was characterised by intense periglacial activity with deposition of slope deposits; (2) 29.4–22.6 ka saw the gradual infilling of the depression with sediment; (3) 22.6–8.1 ka was associated with a palaeolake; and (4) since 8.1 ka, terrestrialisation of the palaeolake commenced, and human impact related to fire activity started around 4.9 ka. Microstructures on the surface of quartz grains suggest different intensity patterns of frost weathering processes in response to Late Quaternary climate oscillations. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.