bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel Ganoderma lucidum G0119 fermentation strategy for enhanced triterpenes production by statistical process optimization and addition of oleic acid
Authors: Feng Jie , Zhang Jing‐Song , Feng Na , Yan Meng‐Qiu , Yang Yan , Jia Wei , Lin Chi‐Chung
Published: September 2016

A novel enhanced triterpenes fermentation production process by Ganoderma lucidum G0119 with the addition of oleic acid in the medium has been developed and optimized. All of the six exogenous additives tested were found to exhibit stimulatory effect on mycelial growth and triterpenes biosynthesis by G. lucidum. The results show that oleic acid addition had significant role in promoting triterpenes production. The optimal concentration and time of oleic acid addition were determined to be 30 mL/L and 0 h, respectively. Furthermore, three significant factors influencing triterpenes production were identified as glucose, magnesium sulfate and temperature using the Plackett–Burman design. The optimized conditions by central composite design were 27.83 g/L glucose, 1.32 g/L magnesium sulfate, 26.2°C temperature. The triterpenes fermentation yield with the optimized medium based on actual confirmatory experimental data in 6 L fermentor was 1.076 g/L versus the statistical model predicted value of 1.080 g/L. Our innovatively developed triterpenes fermentation production technology and process has been proven to produce high triterpenes productivity and yield conceivably useful for industrial production.
Exogenous amino acids increase antioxidant enzyme activities and tolerance of rice seedlings to cadmium stress
Authors: Wang Wei , Cang Long , Zhou Dong‐Mei , Yu Yuan‐Chun
Published: September 2016

Cadmium (Cd) contamination has posed a serious problem for safe food production and become a potential agricultural and global environmental problem. A hydroponic experiment was carried out in this study to characterize the modulation of exogenous amino acids (glutamate, glycine, and cysteine) for antioxidant defense system against Cd‐induced toxicity in rice (Oryza sativa L.) seedlings exposed to 5.0 μmol L−1 Cd. Cd stress (5.0 μmol L−1) caused a significant inhibition of the rice seedlings growth, and the three amino acids alleviated the damaging effects of oxidation in varying degrees. Glutamate and glycine at three application rates did not influence rice plant biomass in comparison to the only Cd treatment, but 25 μmol L−1 cysteine treatment reached the control treatment level. For 25 and 100 μmol L−1 cysteine treatment, the Cd uptake in the whole rice plant was significantly higher than those in the only Cd treatment. Though all of the three amino acids played a role in decreasing lipid peroxidation, increasing catalase, superoxide dismutase activities, and reduced glutathione contents, the effect of cysteine treatment was relatively better. The main reason may be ascribed to that cysteine represents the most important conceptual fragments of glutathione, which is the main precursor of the phytochelatins. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 155–161, 2017
Self‐Discrepancy and Eating Disorder Symptoms Across Eating Disorder Diagnostic Groups
Authors: Mason Tyler B. , Lavender Jason M. , Wonderlich Stephen A. , Crosby Ross D. , Engel Scott G. , Strauman Timothy J. , Mitchell James E. , Crow Scott J. , Le Grange Daniel , Klein Marjorie H. , Smith Tracey L. , Peterson Carol B.
Published: September 2016

This study examined self‐discrepancy, a construct of theoretical relevance to eating disorder (ED) psychopathology, across different types of EDs. Individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN; n = 112), bulimia nervosa (BN; n = 72), and binge eating disorder (BED; n = 199) completed semi‐structured interviews assessing specific types of self‐discrepancies. Results revealed that actual:ideal (A:I) discrepancy was positively associated with AN, actual:ought (A:O) discrepancy was positively associated with BN and BED, and self‐discrepancies did not differentiate BN from BED. Across diagnoses, A:O discrepancy was positively associated with severity of purging, binge eating, and global ED psychopathology. Further, there were significant interactions between diagnosis and A:O discrepancy for global ED psychopathology and between diagnosis and A:I discrepancy for binge eating and driven exercise. These results support the importance of self‐discrepancy as a potential causal and maintenance variable in EDs that differentiates among different types of EDs and symptom severity. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Comparison of chronic mixture toxicity of nickel-zinc-copper and nickel-zinc-copper-cadmium mixtures between Ceriodaphnia dubia and Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata
Authors: Nys Charlotte , Van Regenmortel Tina , Janssen Colin R. , Blust Ronny , Smolders Erik , De Schamphelaere Karel A.C.
Published: September 2016

Although aquatic organisms in the environment are exposed to mixtures of metals, risk assessment for metals is most commonly performed on a metal-by-metal basis. To increase the knowledge about chronic mixture effects, the authors investigated whether metal mixture effects are dependent on the biological species, mixture composition, and metal concentration ratio. The authors evaluated the effects of quaternary Ni-Zn-Cu-Cd and ternary Ni-Zn-Cu mixtures on 48-h algal growth rate (Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata) and 7-d daphnid reproduction (Ceriodaphnia dubia) using a ray design. Single metals were 3-fold to 42-fold more toxic for C. dubia than for P. subcapitata, based on the 50% effective concentration expressed as free metal activity, the range representing different metals. Statistical analysis of mixture effects showed that the ternary and quaternary mixture effects were antagonistic on algal growth relative to the concentration addition (CA) model, when the analysis was based on dissolved concentrations and on free metal ion activities. Using the independent action (IA) model, mixture effects in both rays were statistically noninteractive for algal growth when the analysis was based on dissolved concentrations; however, the interactions shifted toward antagonism when based on free ion activities. The ternary Ni-Zn-Cu mixture acted antagonistically on daphnid reproduction relative to both reference models, either expressed as free ion activities or dissolved concentrations. When Cd was added to the mixture, however, the mixture effects shifted toward noninteractivity for daphnids. The metal concentration ratio did not significantly influence the magnitude of observed antagonistic effects. Regardless of statistical interactions observed, based on the present study, CA and in most instances also IA can serve as a protective model for ternary Ni-Zn-Cu and quaternary Ni-Zn-Cu-Cd toxicity to both species. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:1056–1066. © 2016 SETAC
Realized Volatility Forecasting of Agricultural Commodity Futures Using Long Memory and Regime Switching
Authors: Tian Fengping , Yang Ke , Chen Langnan
Published: September 2016

We investigate the dynamic properties of the realized volatility of five agricultural commodity futures by employing the high‐frequency data from Chinese markets and find that the realized volatility exhibits both long memory and regime switching. To capture these properties simultaneously, we utilize a Markov switching autoregressive fractionally integrated moving average (MS‐ARFIMA) model to forecast the realized volatility by combining the long memory process with regime switching component, and compare its forecast performances with the competing models at various horizons. The full‐sample estimation results show that the dynamics of the realized volatility of agricultural commodity futures are characterized by two levels of long memory: one associated with the low‐volatility regime and the other with the high‐volatility regime, and the probability to stay in the low‐volatility regime is higher than that in the high‐volatility regime. The out‐of‐sample volatility forecast results show that the combination of long memory with switching regimes improves the performance of realized volatility forecast, and the proposed model represents a superior out‐of‐sample realized volatility forecast to the competing models. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Promotion and Persistence of HIV Testing and HIV/AIDS Knowledge: Evidence From a Randomized Controlled Trial in Ethiopia
Authors: Kim Hyuncheol Bryant , Haile Beliyou , Lee Taewha
Published: September 2016

We use data from a randomized controlled trial in Ethiopia and examine the causal effects of HIV/AIDS education, home‐based voluntary HIV counseling and testing (VCT), and conditional cash transfers (CCT) for facility‐based VCT on HIV/AIDS knowledge and demand for HIV testing. HIV/AIDS education significantly increases HIV/AIDS knowledge but has a limited effect on testing take‐up. However, when HIV/AIDS education is combined with either home‐based VCT or CCT for facility‐based VCT, take‐up increases substantially by about 63 and 57 percentage points, respectively. We also demonstrate evidence of persistence in test‐taking behavior, where past HIV testing does not dampen demand for testing. Lastly, we find suggestive evidence that home‐based VCT could be more effective at detecting HIV‐positive cases relative to CCT for facility‐based VCT. Our findings highlight the importance of geographic accessibility in the testing decision and persistence in demand for HIV testing. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Mentored Multigenre Project: Fostering Authentic Writing Interactions Between High School Writers and Teacher Candidates
Authors: West Jessica A. , Saine Paula
Published: September 2016

This article describes the Mentored Multigenre Project, a virtual writing collaboration experience between high school writers and teacher candidates. Our goal was to create an authentic opportunity for our high school students to receive writing feedback from virtual writing mentors, while also creating an opportunity for our teacher candidates to practice the craft of teaching writing. In this article, the authors outline the ways in which they prepared and supported the high school students during the project. Then, the authors highlight an emergent case from the project to demonstrate the virtual writing collaboration experience in action and evaluate the extent to which it created an authentic writing experience for one high school writer. Finally, the authors share their reflections on the experience and suggestions for others interested in using a learning management system to connect high school writers with teacher candidates.
Salicylic acid (SA)‐eluting bone regeneration scaffolds with interconnected porosity and local and sustained SA release
Authors: Yu Weiling , Bajorek Jennifer , Jayade Sayeli , Miele Alyssa , Mirza Javad , Rogado Sarah , Sundararajan Aravind , Faig Jonathan , Ferrage Loïc , Uhrich Kathryn E.
Published: September 2016

In previous work, we observed that localized and sustained delivery of an anti‐inflammatory drug, salicylic acid (SA), via a SA‐based polymer (SAP) powder significantly enhanced diabetic bone regeneration through long‐term mitigation of local inflammation. In this study, SAP was formulated into uniform microspheres and then sintered into a scaffold with an interconnected porous structure and modulus suitable for bone regeneration. The SAP scaffolds have ∼45% SA loading, which is the highest among drug‐eluting bone regeneration scaffolds to‐date. In addition, the scaffold provides localized, controlled and sustained SA release that has been proven to enhance diabetic bone regeneration. With the combination of physical (interconnected porosity) and chemical therapeutic features (high drug loading and sustained release), the novel SAP scaffolds offer unique therapeutic advantages and are promising diabetic bone regeneration candidates. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 311–318, 2017.
Synovium-Derived MicroRNAs Regulate Bone Pathways in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Maeda Yukiko , Farina Nicholas H , Matzelle Melissa M , Fanning Paul J , Lian Jane B , Gravallese Ellen M
Published: September 2016

Articular bone erosion in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is mediated by the interaction between inflammation and pathways regulating bone metabolism. Inflammation promotes osteoclastogenesis and also inhibits osteoblast function, further contributing to the persistence of erosions. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are important regulators of skeletal remodeling and play a role in RA pathogenesis. We therefore determined the expression of miRNAs in inflamed synovial tissue and the role they play in pathways regulating osteoblast and osteoclast function. Using the serum transfer mouse model of RA in C57BL/6 mice, we performed Fluidigm high-throughput qPCR-based screening of miRNAs from nonarthritic and arthritic mice. Global gene expression profiling was also performed on Affymetrix microarrays from these same synovial samples. miRNA and mRNA expression profiles were subjected to comparative bioinformatics. A total of 536 upregulated genes and 417 downregulated genes were identified that are predicted targets of miRNAs with reciprocal expression changes. Gene ontology analysis of these genes revealed significant enrichment in skeletal pathways. Of the 22 miRNAs whose expression was most significantly changed (p < 0.01) between nonarthritic and arthritic mice, we identified their targets that both inhibit and promote bone formation. These miRNAs are predicted to target Wnt and BMP signaling pathway components. We validated miRNA array findings and demonstrated that secretion of miR-221-3p in exosomes was upregulated by synovial fibroblasts treated with the proinflammatory cytokine TNF. Overexpression of miR-221-3p suppressed calvarial osteoblast differentiation and mineralization in vitro. These results suggest that miRNAs derived from inflamed synovial tissues may regulate signaling pathways at erosion sites that affect bone loss and potentially also compensatory bone formation. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
A beginner's guide to atomic force microscopy probing for cell mechanics
Authors: Gavara Núria
Published: September 2016

Atomic Force microscopy (AFM) is becoming a prevalent tool in cell biology and biomedical studies, especially those focusing on the mechanical properties of cells and tissues. The newest generation of bio‐AFMs combine ease of use and seamless integration with live‐cell epifluorescence or more advanced optical microscopies. As a unique feature with respect to other bionanotools, AFM provides nanometer‐resolution maps for cell topography, stiffness, viscoelasticity, and adhesion, often overlaid with matching optical images of the probed cells. This review is intended for those about to embark in the use of bio‐AFMs, and aims to assist them in designing an experiment to measure the mechanical properties of adherent cells. In addition to describing the main steps in a typical cell mechanics protocol and explaining how data is analysed, this review will also discuss some of the relevant contact mechanics models available and how they have been used to characterize specific features of cellular and biological samples. Microsc. Res. Tech. 80:75–84, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Trypsin and MALDI matrix pre‐coated targets simplify sample preparation for mapping proteomic distributions within biological tissues by imaging mass spectrometry
Authors: Zubair Faizan , Laibinis Paul E. , Swisher William G. , Yang Junhai , Spraggins Jeffrey M. , Norris Jeremy L. , Caprioli Richard M.
Published: September 2016

Prefabricated surfaces containing α‐cyano‐4‐hydroxycinnamic acid and trypsin have been developed to facilitate enzymatic digestion of endogenous tissue proteins prior to matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) imaging mass spectrometry (IMS). Tissue sections are placed onto slides that were previously coated with α‐cyano‐4‐hydroxycinnamic acid and trypsin. After incubation to promote enzymatic digestion, the tissue is analyzed by MALDI IMS to determine the spatial distribution of the tryptic fragments. The peptides detected in the MALDI IMS dataset were identified by Liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry. Protein identification was further confirmed by correlating the localization of unique tryptic fragments originating from common parent proteins. Using this procedure, proteins with molecular weights as large as 300 kDa were identified and their distributions were imaged in sections of rat brain. In particular, large proteins such as myristoylated alanine‐rich C‐kinase substrate (29.8 kDa) and spectrin alpha chain, non‐erythrocytic 1 (284 kDa) were detected that are not observed without trypsin. The pre‐coated targets simplify workflow and increase sample throughput by decreasing the sample preparation time. Further, the approach allows imaging at higher spatial resolution compared with robotic spotters that apply one drop at a time. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of reciprocating agitation thermal processing (RA‐TP) on quality of canned tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) puree
Authors: Pratap Singh Anubhav , Singh Anika , Ramaswamy Hosahalli S
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND

Reciprocating agitation thermal processing (RA‐TP) is a recent innovation in the field of canning for obtaining high‐quality canned food. The objective of this study was to compare RA‐TP processing with conventional non‐agitated (still) processing with respect to the impact on quality (color, antioxidant capacity, total phenols, carotenoid and lycopene contents) of canned tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) puree.

RESULTS

Owing to a 63–81% reduction in process times as compared with still processing, tomato puree with a brighter red color (closer to fresh) was obtained during RA‐TP. At 3 Hz reciprocation frequency, the loss of antioxidant, lycopene and carotenoid contents could be reduced to 34, 8 and 8% respectively as compared with 96, 41 and 52% respectively during still processing. In fact, the phenolic content for RA‐TP at 3 Hz was 5% higher than in fresh puree. Quality retention generally increased with an increase in frequency, although the differences were less significant at higher reciprocation frequencies (between 2 and 3 Hz).

CONCLUSION

Research findings indicate that RA‐TP can be effective to obtain thermally processed foods with high‐quality attribute retention. It can also be concluded that a very high reciprocation frequency (>3 Hz) is not necessarily needed and significant quality improvement can be obtained at lower frequencies (∼2 Hz). © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Inhibitory effects of Japanese horseradish (Wasabia japonica) on the formation and genotoxicity of a potent carcinogen, acrylamide
Authors: Shimamura Yuko , Iio Misako , Urahira Tomoko , Masuda Shuichi
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND

The formation of acrylamide (AA) in cooked foods has raised human health concerns. AA is metabolized by cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) to glycidamide (GA), which forms DNA adducts. This study examined the inhibitory effects of wasabi (Japanese horseradish, Wasabia japonica) roots and leaves as well as their active component, allyl isothiocyanate (AIT), on the formation and genotoxicity of AA.

RESULTS

AA formation (51.8 ± 4.2 µg kg−1) was inhibited with ≥2 mg mL−1 of AIT. Wasabi roots also inhibited AA formation (∼90% reduction), but wasabi leaves were not effective at 2 mg mL−1. Wasabi roots and leaves decreased the number of cells with micronuclei by approximately 33 and 24% respectively compared with the AA treatment group. Moreover, wasabi roots and leaves (100 mg kg−1 body weight (BW) day−1 for each) decreased AA (100 mg kg−1 BW day−1)‐induced DNA damage. The AA‐induced CYP2E1 activity was decreased by 39 and 26% with wasabi roots and leaves respectively. Further, the activity of glutathione S‐transferase, which catalyzes the detoxification of AA via glutathione conjugation, increased by 54 and 33% with wasabi roots and leaves respectively.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that wasabi roots and leaves are effective ingredients for inhibiting the formation and genotoxicity of AA. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Advances in the development and applications of organic–silica hybrid monoliths
Authors: Zajickova Zuzana
Published: September 2016

This review will concentrate on recent progress (since 2013) toward preparation of organic–silica hybrid monoliths and their latest applications as extraction and separation media largely focusing on capillary liquid chromatography and capillary electrochromatography. Main emphasis will be given to advancement of approaches relying on the sol–gel chemistry of tetra‐ and tri‐alkoxysilanes, sol–gel chemistry of alkoxysilanes and free‐radical copolymerization with organic monomers, and free radical and ring‐opening copolymerization of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes with organic monomers. Hybrid molecularly‐imprinted polymer monoliths and hybrid monoliths made with non‐silica‐based precursors or in combination with metal alkoxides will be included as well.
Reduction in cardiometabolic risk factors by a multifunctional diet is mediated via several branches of metabolism as evidenced by nontargeted metabolite profiling approach
Authors: Tovar Juscelino , de Mello Vanessa D. , Nilsson Anne , Johansson Maria , Paananen Jussi , Lehtonen Marko , Hanhineva Kati , Björck Inger
Published: September 2016

Scope

Multifunctional diet (MFD), a diet based on multiple functional concepts and ingredients with anti‐inflammatory activity, was previously shown to improve different cardiometabolic risk‐associated markers in healthy subjects. Here, we assessed the impact of MFD on plasma metabolome and explored associations of the differential metabolites with clinical parameters, searching for metabolic determinants related to the effects of MFD.

Methods and results

Forty‐four overweight healthy volunteers completed a randomized crossover intervention comparing MFD with a control diet devoid of the active components of MFD. Fasting plasma samples were analyzed with nontargeted metabolite profiling at baseline and at the end (4 wk) of each diet period by LC coupled to quadrupole‐TOF‐MS system, revealing a vast impact of MFD on metabolic homeostasis. Main metabolite classes affected included acylcarnitines, furan fatty acids, phospholipids (plasmalogens, phosphatidylcholines, phosphatidylethanolamines), and various low‐molecular weight products from the bioactivity of gut microbiota. Circulating levels of several of these metabolites correlated with changes in clinical blood lipid biomarkers.

Conclusions

The metabolomics approach revealed that consumption of MFD affected different areas of metabolism, highlighting the impact of a healthy diet on plasma metabolome. This seems linked to reduced cardiometabolic risk and provides mechanistic insight into the effects of MFD.
Metabolic programming of a beige adipocyte phenotype by genistein
Authors: Aziz Sadat A. , Wakeling Luisa A. , Miwa Satomi , Alberdi Goiuri , Hesketh John E. , Ford Dianne
Published: September 2016

Scope

Promoting the development of brown or beige adipose tissue may protect against obesity and related metabolic features, and potentially underlies protective effects of genistein in mice.

Methods and results

We observed that application of genistein to 3T3‐L1 adipocytes changed the lipid distribution from large droplets to a multilocular distribution, reduced mRNAs indicative of white adipocytes (ACC, Fasn, Fabp4, HSL, chemerin, and resistin) and increased mRNAs that are a characteristic feature of brown/beige adipocytes (CD‐137 and UCP1). Transcripts with a role in adipocyte differentiation (Cebpβ, Pgc1α, Sirt1) peaked at different times after application of genistein. These responses were not affected by the estrogen receptor (ER) antagonist fulvestrant, revealing that this action of genistein is not through the classical ER pathway. The Sirt1 inhibitor Ex‐527 curtailed the genistein‐mediated increase in UCP1 and Cebpβ mRNA, revealing a role for Sirt1 in mediating the effect. Baseline oxygen consumption and the proportional contribution of proton leak to maximal respiratory capacity was greater for cells exposed to genistein, demonstrating greater mitochondrial uncoupling.

Conclusions

We conclude that genistein acts directly on adipocytes or on adipocyte progenitor cells to programme the cells metabolically to adopt features of beige adipocytes. Thus, this natural dietary agent may protect against obesity and related metabolic disease.
Quantitative chemical exchange saturation transfer MRI of intervertebral disc in a porcine model
Authors: Zhou Zhengwei , Bez Maxim , Tawackoli Wafa , Giaconi Joseph , Sheyn Dmitriy , de Mel Sandra , Maya Marcel M. , Pressman Barry D. , Gazit Zulma , Pelled Gadi , Gazit Dan , Li Debiao
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Previous studies have associated low pH in intervertebral discs (IVDs) with discogenic back pain. The purpose of this study was to determine whether quantitative CEST (qCEST) MRI can be used to detect pH changes in IVDs in vivo.

Methods

The exchange rate ksw between glycosaminoglycan (GAG) protons and water protons was determined from qCEST analysis. Its dependence on pH value was investigated in GAG phantoms with varying pH and concentrations. The relationship between ksw and pH was studied further in vivo in a porcine model on a 3T MR scanner and validated using a pH meter. Sodium lactate was injected into the IVDs to induce various pH values within the discs ranging from 5 to 7.

Results

Phantom and animal results revealed that ksw measured using qCEST MRI is highly correlated with pH level. In the animal studies, the relationship can be described as ksw =9.2 × 106 × 10−pH + 196.9, R2 = 0.7883.

Conclusion

The exchange rate between GAG and water protons determined from qCEST MRI is closely correlated with pH value. This technique has the potential to noninvasively measure pH in the IVDs of patients with discogenic pain. Magn Reson Med 76:1677–1683, 2016. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
In vivo MR imaging with simultaneous RF transmission and reception
Authors: Sohn Sung‐Min , Vaughan J. Thomas , Lagore Russell L. , Garwood Michael , Idiyatullin Djaudat
Published: September 2016

Purpose

To present a practical scheme of a simultaneous radiofrequency (RF) transmit (Tx) and receive (Rx) (STAR) system for MRI, discuss the challenges and solutions, and show preliminary in vivo MR images obtained with this new technique.

Methods

A remotely controlled STAR system was built and tested with a transverse electromagnetic head coil on a 4T (Oxford, 90 cm‐bore) MRI scanner equipped with an Agilent DirectDrive console (Agilent, Santa Clara, CA). In vivo head images have been acquired using continuous sweep excitation and acquisition.

Results

The bench test and MR experimental results show our STAR system to have high isolation (60 dB) between Tx and Rx, with insensitivity to load swings created by head motion. To acquire in vivo head images, ultralow RF peak power of 50 mW was used.

Conclusion

A novel motion‐insensitive STAR MRI technique was developed and experimentally tested. The first in vivo MR images using this method were acquired. Magn Reson Med 76:1932–1938, 2016. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Detection of cerebral NAD+ in humans at 7T
Authors: de Graaf Robin A. , De Feyter Henk M. , Brown Peter B. , Nixon Terence W. , Rothman Douglas L. , Behar Kevin L.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

To develop 1H‐based MR detection of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) in the human brain at 7T and validate the 1H results with NAD+ detection based on 31P‐MRS.

Methods

1H‐MR detection of NAD+ was achieved with a one‐dimensional double‐spin‐echo method on a slice parallel to the surface coil transceiver. Perturbation of the water resonance was avoided through the use of frequency‐selective excitation. 31P‐MR detection of NAD+ was performed with an unlocalized pulse‐acquire sequence.

Results

Both 1H‐ and 31P‐MRS allowed the detection of NAD+ signals on every subject in 16 min. Spectral fitting provided an NAD+ concentration of 107 ± 28 μM for 1H‐MRS and 367 ± 78 μM and 312 ± 65 μM for 31P‐MRS when uridine diphosphate glucose (UDPG) was excluded and included, respectively, as an overlapping signal.

Conclusions

NAD+ detection by 1H‐MRS is a simple method that comes at the price of reduced NMR visibility. NAD+ detection by 31P‐MRS has near‐complete NMR visibility, but it is complicated by spectral overlap with NADH and UDPG. Overall, the 1H‐ and 31P‐MR methods both provide exciting opportunities to study NAD+ metabolism on human brain in vivo. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. Magn Reson Med 78:828–835, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Hyperpolarized 13C,15N2‐Urea MRI for assessment of the urea gradient in the porcine kidney
Authors: Hansen Esben S.S. , Stewart Neil J. , Wild Jim M. , Stødkilde‐Jørgensen Hans , Laustsen Christoffer
Published: September 2016

Purpose

A decline in cortico‐medullary osmolality gradient of the kidney may serve as an early indicator of pathological disruption of the tubular reabsorption process. The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility of hyperpolarized 13C,15N2‐urea MRI as a biomarker of renal function in healthy porcine kidneys resembling the human physiology.

Methods

Five healthy female Danish domestic pigs (weight 30 kg) were scanned at 3 Tesla (T) using a 13C 3D balanced steady‐state MR pulse sequence following injection of hyperpolarized 13C,15N2‐urea via a femoral vein catheter. Images were acquired at different time points after urea injection, and following treatment with furosemide.

Results

A gradient in cortico‐medullary urea was observed with an intramedullary accumulation 75 s after injection of hyperpolarized 13C,15N2‐urea, whereas images acquired at earlier time points postinjection were dominated by cortical perfusion. Furosemide treatment resulted in an increased urea accumulation in the cortical space, leading to a reduction of the medullary‐to‐cortical signal ratio of 49%.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that hyperpolarized 13C,15N2‐urea MRI is capable of identifying the intrarenal accumulation of urea and can differentiate acute renal functional states in multipapillary kidneys, highlighting the potential for human translation. Magn Reson Med 76:1895–1899, 2016. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
The impact of prior back surgery on neuromodulation outcomes: A review of over 500 patients
Authors: Bartley Jamie M. , Killinger Kim A. , Boura Judith A. , Gupta Priyanka , Gaines Natalie , Gilleran Jason P. , Peters Kenneth M.
Published: September 2016

Aims

To evaluate neuromodulation outcomes in patients with prior back surgery.

Methods

Adults in our prospective observational sacral/pudendal neuromodulation study were retrospectively evaluated. History and operative details were reviewed, and outcomes were measured at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months with overactive bladder questionnaire (OAB q) symptom severity (SS)/health related quality of life (HRQOL), interstitial cystitis symptom/problem indices (ICSI − PI), voiding diaries, and global response assessments (GRA). Data were examined with Pearson's χ2, Fisher's exact, Wilcoxon rank sum tests, and logistic regression multivariate analysis.

Results

Five hundred and sixty patients were evaluated (mean age 58.8 ± 17 years; 83% female; 79% had a sacral lead placed), 109 (19%) had history of back surgery; 66 surgeries were lumbar. Back surgery patients were older (mean 63 ± 15 vs. 58 ± 17 years; P = 0.003) and a higher proportion had urge urinary incontinence (UUI) (64% vs. 50% P = 0.008). Generator implant rates were similar (94% vs. 91%; P = 0.34). OABq‐SS and HRQOL and ICSI − PI composite scores did not differ between groups at any time point. On bladder diaries, median incontinence episodes daily at baseline and between stages were worse in the prior back surgery group but all bladder diary parameters improved significantly in both groups with the exception of mean voided volume which only improved significantly in the non‐back surgery group. Most patients in both groups reported moderate/marked improvement in overall bladder symptoms.

Conclusions

This study suggests that prior back surgery does not appear to impact clinical outcomes; therefore, neuromodulation may be offered in this patient population.
Nerve growth factor release from the urothelium increases via activation of bladder C‐fiber in rats with cerebral infarction
Authors: Yokokawa Ryusei , Akino Hironobu , Ito Hideaki , Zha Xinmin , Yokoyama Osamu
Published: September 2016

Aims

There are some reports that bladder C‐fibers are partially involved in detrusor overactivity in patients with brain lesions. We investigated the contribution of bladder C‐fiber to decreased bladder capacity in rats with cerebral infarction.

Methods

Cerebral infarction was induced under halothane anesthesia by left middle cerebral artery occlusion with 4‐0 nylon thread in female Sprague‐Dawley rats. Intramural amounts of ATP and prostaglandin E2, in vivo and in vitro ATP, NGF, and prostaglandin E2 release from the distended bladder urothelium, and changes in mRNA expressions of sensor molecules and receptors were monitored 6 h after the occlusion. Cystometry was performed in rats with or without resiniferatoxin pretreatment.

Results

Overexpression of sensor molecule, transient receptor potential vanilloid‐type channel 1, acid‐sensing ion channel 2, purinergic receptors P2X3, and M2/M3 muscarinic receptors was found in the bladder. These changes were accompanied by increases in ATP and NGF release from the urothelium. In contrast, when bladder C‐fibers were desensitized by resiniferatoxin, no increase in NGF release from the urothelium was found either in vivo or in vitro. There was no difference in the percentage decrease in bladder capacity between cerebral infarction rats pretreated with resiniferatoxin and cerebral infarction rats without pretreatment.

Conclusions

Results indicate that expression of sensor molecules in the bladder is altered by distant infarction in the brain. ATP and NGF release from the urothelium also increased. NGF release was related to activation of bladder C‐fibers. Bladder C‐fibers might not contribute much to decreased bladder capacity caused by cerebral infarction.
Fiber type composition of pubococcygeus and bulbospongiosus striated muscles is modified by multiparity in the rabbit
Authors: López‐García Kenia , Mariscal‐Tovar Silvia , Serrano‐Meneses Martín Alejandro , Castelán Francisco , Martínez‐Gómez Margarita , Jiménez‐Estrada Ismael
Published: September 2016

Aims

We analyzed the effect of multiparity on the fiber type composition of two skeletal muscles involved in the maintenance of the micturition process, the pelvic pubococcygeus (Pc) and perineal bulbospongiosus (Bs) muscles in nulliparous and multiparous rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus).

Methods

We used the basic ATPase and NADH‐TR techniques to identify and characterize slow, intermediate, and fast fiber types and glycolitic and oxidative fibers in muscles, respectively.

Results

Pc muscles of multiparous rabbits present relatively high percentages of slow and intermediate fibers but a low percentage of fast fibers (P < 0.05) as compared to Pc muscles from nulliparous rabbits, while percentages of glycolytic and oxidative fibers were similar (P > 0.05). Bs muscles of multiparous rabbits had a higher proportion of intermediate and glycolytic fibers (P < 0.05) than muscles of nulliparous. Both, Pc and Bs muscles of nulliparous and multiparous rabbits contain slow fibers with similar large cross sectional area, but fast fibers in multiparous muscles showed small cross sectional area than in nulliparous.

Conclusions

Multiparity modified the fiber type composition of Pc and Bs muscles in female rabbits. We propose that the contractile force and the physiological role of both muscles during micturition are affected because of the observed changes in the relative composition of muscle fiber types.
Objective outcome and quality‐of‐life assessment in women with repeat incontinence surgery
Authors: Ulrich Daniela , Bjelic‐Radisic Vesna , Grabner Katrin , Avian Alexander , Trutnovsky Gerda , Tamussino Karl , Aigmüller Thomas
Published: September 2016

Aims

To evaluate subjective and objective outcome after repeat surgery for stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

Methods

Patients who underwent a midurethral tape after failed Burch colposuspension or failed midurethal tape between 1999 and 2014 were invited for follow‐up. Urogynecological examination and urodynamics was performed, and objective cure was defined as a negative cough stress test; subjective cure was defined as negotiation of SUI symptoms. Quality‐of‐life (QoL), sexual health, and subjective success was assessed with the King's Health Questionnaire, Incontinence Outcome Questionnaire, Female Sexual Function Index, and the Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI‐I) score.

Results

Overall 52 women underwent repeat incontinence surgery. Out of the 44 women still alive, 33 (75%) were available for follow‐up. All 33 women completed the questionnaires; 23 women (70%) attended the clinic and also had an urogynecological examination. At a median follow‐up of 11 years, subjective cure was 67% (22/33), objective cure was 65% (16/23), and subjective success according to PGI‐I was 78% (18/23), with no significant differences between groups. No erosions of suture or tape material into the bladder, urethra, or vagina were seen. Two women had received a third anti‐incontinence operation with TVT after failed tape after failed Burch, and were continent at follow‐up. Two women with tape after colposuspension required division of the tape and both were continent at the time of follow‐up. With regard to QoL and sexual health, no significant differences were seen for most domains.

Conclusions

Midurethral tapes are an option for women with recurrent SUI after previous colposuspension or midurethral tape.
MR‐based measurements and simulations of the magnetic field created by a realistic transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) coil and stimulator
Authors: Mandija Stefano , Petrov Petar I. , Neggers Sebastian F.W. , Luijten Peter R. , van den Berg Cornelis A.T.
Published: September 2016

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an emerging technique that allows non‐invasive neurostimulation. However, the correct validation of electromagnetic models of typical TMS coils and the correct assessment of the incident TMS field (BTMS) produced by standard TMS stimulators are still lacking. Such a validation can be performed by mapping BTMS produced by a realistic TMS setup. In this study, we show that MRI can provide precise quantification of the magnetic field produced by a realistic TMS coil and a clinically used TMS stimulator in the region in which neurostimulation occurs. Measurements of the phase accumulation created by TMS pulses applied during a tailored MR sequence were performed in a phantom. Dedicated hardware was developed to synchronize a typical, clinically used, TMS setup with a 3‐T MR scanner. For comparison purposes, electromagnetic simulations of BTMS were performed. MR‐based measurements allow the mapping and quantification of BTMS starting 2.5 cm from the TMS coil. For closer regions, the intra‐voxel dephasing induced by BTMS prohibits TMS field measurements. For 1% TMS output, the maximum measured value was ~0.1 mT. Simulations reflect quantitatively the experimental data. These measurements can be used to validate electromagnetic models of TMS coils, to guide TMS coil positioning, and for dosimetry and quality assessment of concurrent TMS‐MRI studies without the need for crude methods, such as motor threshold, for stimulation dose determination.
Accurate and fast computations with positive extended Schoenmakers–Coffey matrices
Authors: Delgado Jorge , Peña Guillermo , Peña Juan Manuel
Published: September 2016

Schoenmakers–Coffey matrices are correlation matrices with important financial applications. Several characterizations of positive extended Schoenmakers–Coffey matrices are presented. This paper provides an accurate and fast method to obtain the bidiagonal decomposition of the conversion of these matrices, which in turn can be used to compute with high relative accuracy the eigenvalues and inverses of positive extended Schoenmakers–Coffey matrices. Numerical examples are included.
One‐year postpartum outcomes following a weight management intervention in pregnant women with obesity
Authors: Vesco Kimberly K. , Leo Michael C. , Karanja Njeri , Gillman Matthew W. , McEvoy Cindy T. , King Janet C. , Eckhardt Cara L. , Smith K. Sabina , Perrin Nancy , Stevens Victor J.
Published: September 2016

Objective

This analysis was focused on 1‐year maternal and infant follow‐up of a randomized trial that tested a weight management intervention conducted during pregnancy.

Methods

One hundred fourteen women with obesity (mean BMI 36.7 kg/m2) were randomly assigned at a mean of 15 weeks gestation to a weight management intervention or usual care control condition. The intervention ended at delivery and resulted in less gestational weight gain and a lower proportion of large‐for‐gestational‐age newborns among intervention compared with control participants. The primary outcome at 12 months postpartum was maternal weight. Secondary outcomes included infant weight‐for‐age and weight‐for‐length z‐scores.

Results

At 1 year, mothers in the intervention group weighed 96.3 ± 18.6 kg and those in the control group 99.7 ± 19.2 kg. There was no significant difference between groups in change in weight from randomization to 1 year postpartum (b = −0.47, 95% CI: −4.03 to 3.08). There was a significant main effect of group for infant weight‐for‐age z‐scores (b = −0.40, 95% CI: −0.75 to −0.05) but not infant weight‐for‐length z‐scores (b = −0.20, 95% CI: −0.59 to 0.20).

Conclusions

A gestational weight management intervention did not influence maternal weight or infant weight‐for‐length at 1 year postpartum. Future studies may be warranted to determine whether extending prenatal interventions into the postpartum period would be beneficial for maternal and infant outcomes.
Do activity monitors increase physical activity in adults with overweight or obesity? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: de Vries Herman J. , Kooiman Thea J.M. , van Ittersum Miriam W. , van Brussel Marco , de Groot Martijn
Published: September 2016

Objective

To systematically assess contemporary knowledge regarding behavioral physical activity interventions including an activity monitor (BPAI+) in adults with overweight or obesity.

Methods

PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, CENTRAL, and PEDro were searched for eligible full‐text articles up to 1 July 2015. Studies eligible for inclusion were (randomized) controlled trials describing physical activity outcomes in adults with overweight or obesity. Methodological quality was independently assessed employing the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for risk of bias.

Results

Fourteen studies (1,157 participants) were included for systematic review and 11 for meta‐analysis. A positive trend in BPAI+ effects on several measures of physical activity was ascertained compared with both wait list or usual care and behavioral physical activity interventions without an activity monitor (BPAI−). No convincing evidence of BPAI+ effectiveness on weight loss was found compared with BPAI−.

Conclusions

Behavioral physical activity interventions with an activity monitor increase physical activity in adults with overweight or obesity. Also, adding an activity monitor to behavioral physical activity interventions appears to increase the effect on physical activity, although current evidence has not yet provided conclusive evidence for its effectiveness.
E‐government and public service quality in Ghana
Authors: Osei‐Kojo Alex
Published: September 2016

This article contributes to the growing discourse on the potential of e‐government to transform the operations of public sector institutions, thereby improving public services. It does so by conceptualizing public service quality into efficiency, economy (cost reduction), customer satisfaction, and service accessibility and draws on qualitative data from the Ghanaian narrative for illustration. As previous studies have demonstrated, this study also affirms the potential of e‐government in improving public services delivery by increasing efficiency, reducing the cost of operations, expanding access to services, and achieving customer satisfaction.

Yet, there remains a repertoire of challenges such as weak ICT infrastructure especially in towns and villages, incessant power outages and illiteracy, which are drawbacks to fully harnessing the benefits of e‐government in Ghana. The study recommends that these challenges should feature prominently in e‐government policies to increase the chances of solving them.
Synthesis, characterization and catalytic activity of zinc complex for ring‐opening polymerization of lactide
Authors: Mantri Somanath , Routaray Anita , Nath Nibedita , Sutar Alekha Kumar , Maharana Tungabidya
Published: September 2016

In the present study, salicylaldimine zinc complex (Zn‐HMBED) was synthesized and its reactivity for the ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of lactide was studied. The zinc complex was prepared by the reaction of zinc solution with one molar equivalent of salicylaldimine Schiff base ligand in methanol under a nitrogen atmosphere. Further, the complex was characterized by various spectroscopic methods, which showed tetrahedral geometry. X‐ray diffraction studies were used for the structure determination of the Schiff base. It was observed that the zinc complex is highly active towards the ROP of lactide. The rate of polymerization is heavily dependent on the initiator used. The zinc complex allows controlled ROP as revealed by the linear relationship between the percentage conversion and the number‐average molecular weight. Finally, a mechanism for the ROP of lactide is proposed by use of the above zinc complex. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Anion conductive polymer nanofiber composite membrane: effects of nanofibers on polymer electrolyte characteristics
Authors: Watanabe Tsukasa , Tanaka Manabu , Kawakami Hiroyoshi
Published: September 2016

Polymer composite membranes composed of anion conductive polymer nanofiber mats and the corresponding polymer matrix were prepared and characterized for future alkaline fuel cells. In this paper, electrospinning was attempted to fabricate anion conductive nanofiber mats. The anion conductivity of the composite membrane was higher than the corresponding membrane without nanofibers under all conditions due to outstanding anion conductive characteristics of the nanofibers. In addition, because of the rigid and anisotropic structure of the nanofibers, membrane stabilities such as reductive degradation resistance and mechanical strength were very much improved. The gas permeability and excessive hydration swelling that will degrade fuel cells after long‐term operation were suppressed in the nanofiber composite membrane. These results indicated that excellent properties of the anion conductive nanofibers were demonstrated even in the composite membrane, leading to the potential application of anion conductive nanofibers in future fuel cells. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry