bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crystallographic and Dynamic Aspects of Solid‐State NMR Calibration Compounds: Towards ab Initio NMR Crystallography
Authors: Li Xiaozhou , Tapmeyer Lukas , Bolte Michael , van de Streek Jacco
Published: June 2016

The excellent results of dispersion‐corrected density functional theory (DFT‐D) calculations for static systems have been well established over the past decade. The introduction of dynamics into DFT‐D calculations is a target, especially for the field of molecular NMR crystallography. Four 13C ss‐NMR calibration compounds are investigated by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, molecular dynamics and DFT‐D calculations. The crystal structure of 3‐methylglutaric acid is reported. The rotator phases of adamantane and hexamethylbenzene at room temperature are successfully reproduced in the molecular dynamics simulations. The calculated 13C chemical shifts of these compounds are in excellent agreement with experiment, with a root‐mean‐square deviation of 2.0 ppm. It is confirmed that a combination of classical molecular dynamics and DFT‐D chemical shift calculation improves the accuracy of calculated chemical shifts.
Exploring the Loading Capacity of Generation Six to Eight Dendronized Polymers in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Maltar‐Strmečki Nadica , Yu Hao , Messmer Daniel , Zhang Baozhong , Schlüter A. Dieter , Hinderberger Dariush
Published: June 2016

Aspects of size, structural (im)perfection, inner density, and guest molecule loading capacity of dendronized polymers (DPs) of high generation (6≤g≤8) in aqueous solution are studied using electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy on amphiphilic, spin‐labeled guest molecules. The results show that the interior of the charged DPs is strongly polar, especially in comparison to their lower generation (1–4) analogues. This is a direct sign that large amounts of water penetrate the DP surface, reflecting the structural (im)perfections of these high‐generation DPs and much lower segmental densities than theoretically achievable. Images obtained with atomic force microscopy reveal that the high‐generation DPs do not aggregate and give further insights into the structural imperfections. Electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopic data further show that despite their structural imperfections, these DPs can bind and release large numbers of amphiphilic molecules. It is concluded that attention should be paid to their synthesis, for which a protocol needs to be developed that avoids the relatively large amount of defects generated in the direct conversion of a generation g=4 DP to a generation g=6 DP, which had to be used here.
Dimethylsilanone Generation from Pyrolysis of Polysiloxanes Filled with Nanosized Silica and Ceria/Silica
Authors: Kulyk Kostiantyn , Zettergren Henning , Gatchell Michael , Alexander John D. , Borysenko Mykola , Palianytsia Borys , Larsson Mats , Kulik Tetiana
Published: June 2016

Temperature‐programmed desorption mass spectrometry (TPD MS) was used to study the pyrolysis of PDMS and its composites with nanosized silica and ceria/silica. The results suggest that the elusive organosilicon compound, dimethylsilanone, is generated from PDMS over a broad temperature range (in some cases starting at 70 °C). The presence of nano‐oxides catalyzes this process. Ions characteristic of the fragmentation of dimethylsilanone under electron ionization are assigned with the aid of DFT structure calculations. Possible reaction mechanisms for dimethylsilanone generation are discussed in the context of the calculated kinetic parameters. Observed accompanying products of PDMS pyrolysis, such as tetramethylcyclodisiloxane and hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane, indicate that multiple channels are involved in the dimethylsilanone release.
Mother and Child: Medication Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
Authors: Ito S
Published: June 2016

Pregnancy and breastfeeding pose a unique challenge to drug development and clinical application. In addition to drug toxicity to the fetus in utero and infants through breastfeeding, alterations of pharmacokinetics in those women also need careful attention. How do we turn around the overall lack of drug efficacy and toxicity information for pregnant and breastfeeding women?
The effectiveness of family‐based treatment for full and partial adolescent anorexia nervosa in an independent private practice setting: Clinical outcomes
Authors: Goldstein Mandy , Murray Stuart B. , Griffiths Scott , Rayner Kathryn , Podkowka Jessica , Bateman Joel E. , Wallis Andrew , Thornton Christopher E.
Published: June 2016

Objective

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a severe psychiatric illness with little evidence supporting treatment in adults. Among adolescents with AN, family‐based treatment (FBT) is considered first‐line outpatient approach, with a growing evidence base. However, research on FBT has stemmed from specialist services in research/public health settings. This study investigated the effectiveness of FBT in a case series of adolescent AN treated in a private practice setting.

Method

Thirty‐four adolescents with full or partial AN, diagnosed according to DSM‐IV criteria, participated, and were assessed at pretreatment and post‐treatment. Assessments included change in % expected body weight, mood, and eating pathology.

Results

Significant weight gain was observed from pretreatment to post‐treatment. 45.9% of the sample demonstrated full weight restoration and a further 43.2% achieved partial weight‐based remission. Missing data precluded an examination of change in mood and ED psychopathology.

Discussion

Effective dissemination across different service types is important to the wider availability of evidence‐based treatments. These weight restoration data lend preliminary support to the implementation of FBT in real world treatment settings. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2016; 49:1023–1026)
Do differences in life‐history traits and the timing of peak mating activity between host‐associated populations of Chilo suppressalis have a genetic basis?
Authors: Quan Wei‐Li , Liu Wen , Zhou Rui‐Qi , Qureshi Sundas Rana , Ding Nan , Ma Wei‐Hua , Lei Chao‐Liang , Wang Xiao‐Ping
Published: June 2016

The development of host races, genetically distinct populations of the same species with different hosts, is considered to be the initial stage of ecological speciation. Ecological and biological differences consistent with host race formation have been reported between water‐oat and rice‐associated populations of Chilo suppressalis. In order to confirm whether these differences have a genetic basis, we conducted experiments to determine the extent to which various life‐history traits and the time of peak mating activity of these populations were influenced by the species of host plant larvae were raised on. Individuals from each population were reared for three consecutive generations on either water‐oat fruit pulp or rice seedlings. Descendants of both populations had higher larval survival rates, shorter larval developmental periods, higher pupal weight, and longer adult forewings, when reared on water‐oats than when reared on rice. The time of peak of mating activity differed between the descendants of each population, irrespective of whether they were raised on water‐oats or rice. These results indicate that although some life‐history traits of host‐associated populations of C. suppressalis are influenced by the host plant larvae are raised on, time of peak mating activity is not. Because it is a stable, objective, phenotypic trait, further research on difference in the time of peak mating activity between host‐associated populations of C. suppressalis should be conducted to clarify the mechanism responsible for host race formation in this species.
Does habitat unpredictability promote the evolution of a colonizer syndrome in amphibian metapopulations?
Authors: Cayuela Hugo , Boualit Laurent , Arsovski Dragan , Bonnaire Eric , Pichenot Julian , Bellec Arnaud , Miaud Claude , Léna Jean‐Paul , Joly Pierre , Besnard Aurélien
Published: June 2016

Dispersal is a central component of life history evolution. An increasing number of studies suggest that spatiotemporally variable environments may promote the evolution of “dispersal syndromes,” consisting of covariation patterns between dispersal and morphological, physiological, behavioral, and life history traits. At the interspecific scale, the “colonizer syndrome” appears to be one of the most frequently recorded associations between dispersal and life history traits, linking a high dispersal rate, high fecundity, and a short lifespan as systematically combined adaptations in spatiotemporally varying environments. However, few studies have highlighted the existence of a “colonizer syndrome” at the intraspecific scale, and none have investigated how different degrees of habitat stochasticity might shape covariation patterns between dispersal and life history traits. In this study, we examined this issue in free‐ranging metapopulations of the yellow‐bellied toad (Bombina variegata) using capture–recapture data. Combining the results of this study with another recent study, we found that a high dispersal rate, high fecundity, and a short lifespan are associated in metapopulations experiencing unpredictable environments. In contrast, a very low dispersal rate (close to zero), low fecundity and a long lifespan are associated in metapopulations occupying predictable environments. We discuss these results as well as their demographic and evolutionary consequences.
In‐Situ TEM on Epitaxial and Non‐Epitaxial Oxidation of Pd and Reduction of PdO at P = 0.2–0.7 bar and T = 20–650 °C
Authors: Yokosawa Tadahiro , Tichelaar Frans D. , Zandbergen Henny W.
Published: June 2016

The oxidation of Pd particles and subsequent reduction of PdO were studied in 0.2–0.7 bar O2 and H2 gas at 20–650 °C by in‐situ transmission electron microscopy. The 15 nm thick Pd particles were 50–300 nm wide, and (111) oriented on the SiN support. Two oxidation mechanisms were observed: 1) the slow formation of epitaxial PdO at the Pd particle edges with orientations OR(1): PdO[201]//Pd[111] and PdO(020)//Pd{022}, 5.8° from OR(2): PdO[110]//Pd[100] and PdO[001]//Pd[001]. 2) the fast formation of randomly oriented PdO nucleating at the Pd particle edges. During the reduction process we observed epitaxial formation [OR(1) and OR(2)] as well as nonepitaxial formation of Pd (and Pd hydride). The formation of randomly oriented (5–10 nm) Pd particles on a (001) surface of PdO was much slower than of the epitaxial Pd grains on other PdO surfaces. A systematic study of the electron beam irradiation effect on the phase transformations showed that this effect can be avoided.
The influence of crusher speed on extra virgin olive oil characteristics
Authors: Guerrini Lorenzo , Migliorini Marzia , Giusti Matteo , Parenti Alessandro
Published: June 2016

Milling is an aspect of olive oil production that has received very little attention, and there have been very few studies of the relationship between crusher speed and oil quality. This work compares the effect of three blade cutter crusher speeds used in an industrial plant on the main olive oil chemical and sensory parameters, at two points in time: immediately post‐production, and after eight month of storage. The ANOVA results showed that faster crushing significantly increases chlorophyll and total biophenol content. Secoiridoids are particularly affected and concentrations of 3,4‐DHPEA‐EDA and p‐DHPEA‐EDA significantly varied in oils milled at different speeds. From the lowest to the highest speed a difference of roughly 50 mg/kg (on about 400 mg/kg) for total biophenols, and about 40 mg/kg of 3,4‐DHPEA‐EDA is found. Panel testing found higher bitterness and astringency scores in oils produced at the higher speed. These findings suggest that crushing speed can be used to characterize olive oils.

Practical applications: Crushing speed is easy to change in olive mills, and could be used to control the sensory and nutraceutical profile of extra virgin olive oil through its effect on bitterness, astringency, and phenolic content parameters. Hence, it is very useful to have a better understanding of the relationship between crushing speed and olive oil characteristics.

Crushing speed can be used to characterize olive oils. Faster crushing significantly increases chlorophyll, total biophenol, 3,4‐DHPEA‐EDA, and p‐DHPEA‐EDA. Panel testing found higher bitterness and astringency scores in oils produced at the higher speed.
Development of a Modified Julia Olefination of Imides for the Synthesis of Alkaloids
Authors: Trinh Huu Vinh , Perrin Lionel , Goekjian Peter G. , Gueyrard David
Published: June 2016

We report the development of the intramolecular Julia olefination of imides. This original reaction produces N‐fused bicyclic enamide compounds, which are interesting precursors in the synthesis of alkaloids. We show that this transformation enables access to [5,6], [6,5], and [6,6] fused bicyclic lactam enamides. The scope and the limitations of the reaction are presented as well as computational studies concerning novel mechanistic aspects of the title reaction.
Mimicking the Main Events of the Biosynthesis of Drimentines: Synthesis of Δ8′‐Isodrimentine A and Related Compounds
Authors: Skiredj Adam , Beniddir Mehdi A. , Evanno Laurent , Poupon Erwan
Published: June 2016

Drimentines are a family of tetracyclic alkaloids biosynthetically originating from the condensation of sesquiterpene units onto cyclic dipeptides. A straightforward assembly of the fused “pyrroloindoline–diketopiperazine” core of drimentines is described herein and used for the synthesis of Δ8′‐isodrimentine A. The strategy involves a bio‐inspired indole dearomatization of a tryptophan‐containing cyclodipeptide by a drimane‐type decaline followed by the intramolecular trapping of the resulting indolenine intermediate in an uninterrupted reactive sequence. The starting diketopiperazine was prepared by classical peptidic coupling and the drimane‐type decaline from (+)‐sclareolide. A fully biomimetic approach with a linear sesquiterpene unit is also reported and led to farnesylated pyrroloindoline–diketopiperazines, which correspond to the proposed biosynthetic precursors of both drimentines A and D. The end product Δ8′‐isodrimentine A and its congeners were evaluated in vitro for their cytotoxic activities against three human tumor cell lines.
Comparison of Nickel and Cobalt Mixed‐Metal Ferrites for Hydrogen Production using Chemical Looping
Authors: Aston Victoria J. , Weimer Alan W.
Published: June 2016

A simple model of the chemical‐looping hydrogen‐production system was developed to investigate the syngas reduction of and H2O/O2 oxidation of Fe2O3, CoFe2O4, and NiFe2O4. The model was used to calculate the metal oxide reduction conversion in a packed‐bed reactor (PBR) before breakthrough of CO/H2, the reduction product gas composition, the steam necessary to fully oxidize the reduced material, and the steam‐associated energy requirements and to analyze the possibility of hybrid H2O/O2 oxidation for H2 and electricity generation. Model results were compared to laboratory PBR experimental results with additional analysis by thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and temperature‐programmed reduction for each material. Use of NiFe2O4 and CoFe2O4 was found to increase the flexibility of the chemical‐looping hydrogen process, which allowed more H2 production than is currently possible with Fe‐based materials while maintaining the ability for electricity generation from supplemental O2 oxidation. The mixed‐metal spinel materials were ideally suited for converting lower quality syngas into H2 by lower temperature reactions.
Utilization of limestone derived calcium oxide for biodiesel production from non‐edible pongamia oil
Authors: Anjana P.A. , Niju S. , Meera Sheriffa Begum K. M. , Anantharaman N.
Published: June 2016

Natural lime stones were calcined in a muffle furnace at 1000°C for 4 h to obtain calcium oxide (CaO) and tested as a solid catalyst for biodiesel production via transesterification of non‐edible pongamia oil. Limestone based CaO catalyst was characterized using Fourier transform infra red spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐Ray Diffraction (XRD), and Braunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET) techniques. The effect of transesterification process parameters such as amount of catalyst, methanol to oil molar ratio, reaction time and reaction temperature on biodiesel conversion were investigated. A maximum biodiesel conversion of 97.28% was observed at a methanol to oil ratio of 15:1, catalyst amount of 12 wt %, reaction time of 3 h and reaction temperature of 65°C. The structure of the biodiesel was characterized by FTIR and biodiesel conversion was determined by 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (1H NMR). © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 35: 1758–1764, 2016
Microcystins affect zooplankton biodiversity in oxbow lakes
Authors: Krztoń Wojciech , Pudaś Krzysztof , Pociecha Agnieszka , Strzesak Magdalena , Kosiba Joanna , Walusiak Edward , Szarek-Gwiazda Ewa , Wilk-Woźniak Elżbieta
Published: June 2016

The authors tested the hypothesis that zooplankton diversity and density are affected by the presence of cyanotoxins in the water. The authors focused on 4 oxbow lakes of the Vistula River in southern Poland, which are subjected to mass cyanobacterial development. In 2 of the oxbows (Piekary and Tyniec), microcystins released into the water were found. The highest concentration of microcystins (0.246 μg/L) was observed for microcystins LR. Zooplankton diversity showed a weak response to the presence of microcystins released into the water. The Shannon index (H') of total zooplankton diversity decreased in the Piekary and Tyniec oxbows during periods when the microcystin concentrations were highest. The same trend was noted for diversity of rotifers in both oxbows and for diversity of copepods in Piekary, but not for copepods in Tyniec. No such trends were found for the diversity of cladocerans in any of the oxbows, nor was a relationship found between density of zooplankton and microcystins. Statistical analyses showed that the number of species in individual samples was negatively correlated with the levels of sulfates, phosphates, and ammonia, but the microcystin concentration was positively related to those levels. This points to the complexity of the interactions and synergies among toxins, abiotic factors, and zooplankton biodiversity. In focusing on the problem of cyanotoxins, conservation studies should pay attention to this complexity. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:165–174. © 2016 SETAC
Folic acid advisories: a public health challenge?
Authors: Herrera‐Araujo Daniel
Published: June 2016

Neural tube defects are neurological conditions affecting one in 1000 fetuses in France each year. If a fetus is affected, there is a 90% chance that the pregnancy will be terminated. Increasing folic acid intake to 400μg per day 2months before and 2months after conception reduces prevalence rates by at least 40%. In 2005, France introduced a social marketing campaign seeking to increase the intake of folic acid by to‐be‐pregnant and pregnant women through information provision. This paper sets up a quasi‐experimental setting to measure the impact of the French social marketing campaign on availability and preferences for folic acid. I combine detailed scanner data on grocery purchases with a dataset on macronutrients and micronutrients. The identification strategy exploits the variation in the usefulness of folic acid information between households: households that are pregnant or want to conceive a child use it, while those that are not pregnant do not. Results suggest evidence of a positive impact of the information campaign on folic acid household availability and preferences. A value per statistical neural tube defects case is found to be of at least 12 million. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
TP53 mutations are early events in chronic lymphocytic leukemia disease progression and precede evolution to complex karyotypes
Authors: Lazarian Gregory , Tausch Eugen , Eclache Virginie , Sebaa Amel , Bianchi Vincent , Letestu Remi , Collon Jean‐Francois , Lefebvre Valerie , Gardano Laura , Varin‐Blank Nadine , Soussi Thierry , Stilgenbauer Stephen , Cymbalista Florence , Baran‐Marszak Fanny
Published: June 2016

TP53 abnormalities lead to resistance to purine analogues and are found in over 40% of patients with refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). At diagnosis, no more than 5% of patients carry the 17p deletion, most cases harbour mutations within the other TP53 allele. The incidence of a TP53 mutation as the only alteration is approximately 5%, but this depends on the sensitivity of the technique. Recently, having a complex karyotype has been considered a strong adverse prognostic factor. However, there are no longitudinal studies simultaneously examining the presence of the 17p deletion, TP53 mutations and karyotype abnormalities. We conducted a retrospective longitudinal study of 31 relapsed/refractory CLL patients. Two to six blood samples per patient were analyzed, with a median follow‐up of 8 years. In this report, we assessed the sequence of events of TP53 clonal evolution and correlated the presence of TP53 abnormalities to genetic instability during progression and treatment. Next‐generation sequencing allowed the early detection of TP53 mutated clones and was able to be performed on a routine basis, demonstrating an excellent correlation between the Illumina and Ion Torrent technologies. We concluded that TP53 mutations are early events and precede clonal evolution to complex karyotypes. We strongly recommend the early and iterated detection of TP53 mutations in progressive cases.
Paternal selenium deficiency but not supplementation during preconception alters mammary gland development and 7,12‐dimethylbenz[a]anthracene‐induced mammary carcinogenesis in female rat offspring
Authors: Guido Luiza N. , Fontelles Camile C. , Rosim Mariana P. , Pires Vanessa C. , Cozzolino Silvia M. F. , Castro Inar A. , Bolaños‐Jiménez Francisco , Barbisan Luis F. , Ong Thomas P.
Published: June 2016

Breast cancer is a global public health problem and accumulating evidence indicates early‐life exposures as relevant factors in the disease risk determination. Recent studies have shown that paternal nutrition can influence offspring health including breast cancer risk. Selenium is a micronutrient with essential role in central aspects of embryogenesis, male fertility and cancer and that has been extensively studied as a chemopreventive agent in several breast cancer experimental models. Thus, we designed an animal study to evaluate whether paternal selenium deficiency or supplementation during preconception could affect the female offspring mammary gland development and breast cancer susceptibility. Male Sprague‐Dawley rats were fed AIN93‐G diet containing 0.15 ppm (control diet), 0.05 ppm (deficient diet) or 1 ppm (supplemented diet) of selenium for 9 weeks and mated with control female rats. Mammary carcinogenesis was induced with 7,12‐dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) in their female offspring. Paternal selenium deficiency increased the number of terminal end buds, epithelial elongation and cell proliferation in the mammary gland of the female rat offspring and these effects were associated with higher susceptibility to DMBA‐induced mammary tumors (increased incidence and higher grade tumors). On the other hand, paternal selenium supplementation did not influence any of these parameters. These results highlight the importance of father's nutrition including selenium status as a relevant factor affecting daughter's breast cancer risk and paternal preconception as a potential developmental stage to start disease preventive strategies.
Cell structure imaging with bright and homogeneous nanometric light source
Authors: Fukuta Masahiro , Ono Atsushi , Nawa Yasunori , Inami Wataru , Shen Lin , Kawata Yoshimasa , Terekawa Susumu
Published: June 2016

Label‐free optical nano‐imaging of dendritic structures and intracellular granules in biological cells is demonstrated using a bright and homogeneous nanometric light source. The optical nanometric light source is excited using a focused electron beam. A zinc oxide (ZnO) luminescent thin film was fabricated by atomic layer deposition (ALD) to produce the nanoscale light source. The ZnO film formed by ALD emitted the bright, homogeneous light, unlike that deposited by another method. The dendritic structures of label‐free macrophage receptor with collagenous structure‐expressing CHO cells were clearly visualized below the diffraction limit. The inner fiber structure was observed with 120 nm spatial resolution. Because the bright homogeneous emission from the ZnO film suppresses the background noise, the signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) for the imaging results was greater than 10. The ALD method helps achieve an electron beam excitation assisted microscope with high spatial resolution and high SNR.

magnified image
Efficacy and safety of erythrocytapheresis and low‐dose erythropoietin for treatment of hemochromatosis
Authors: Brückl Dorothea , Kamhieh‐Milz Sundrela , Kamhieh‐Milz Julian , Salama Abdulgabar
Published: June 2016

Background:

The aim of this study was to determine retrospectively the efficacy of combined therapy using erythropoietin (EPO) and erythrocytapheresis (EA) in patients with hereditary hemochromatosis (HH) who did not tolerate phlebotomy.

Patients and Methods:

Twenty patients (age range, 43–74 years) with genetically confirmed HH had received low‐dose EPO (4,000 IU) in accordance to the patient's hemoglobin levels between each EA session. Laboratory parameters including hemoglobin, ferritin, transferrin, and iron were measured at regular intervals.

Results:

Anemia did not occur in a single patient and no serious side effects were observed. Combined treatment with EPO and EA was well tolerated, and all 18 patients who suffered from fatigue prior to therapy recovered. Median ferritin values were 678.5 ng/L before treatment and 145 ng/L after treatment.

Conclusion:

EA in combination with EPO is safe and effective in treating patients with HH. Prospective studies comparing this therapeutic option to phlebotomy are warranted. J. Clin. Apheresis 32:170–174, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The effect of simulation‐based mastery learning on thoracentesis referral patterns
Authors: Barsuk Jeffrey H. , Cohen Elaine R. , Williams Mark V. , Scher Jordan , Feinglass Joe , McGaghie William C. , O'Hara Kelly , Wayne Diane B.
Published: June 2016

Internal medicine (IM) residents and hospitalist physicians commonly perform thoracenteses. National data show that thoracenteses are also frequently referred to other services such as interventional radiology (IR), increasing healthcare costs. Simulation‐based mastery learning (SBML) is an effective method to boost physicians' procedural skills and self‐confidence. This study aimed to (1) assess the effect of SBML on IM residents' simulated thoracentesis skills and (2) compare thoracentesis referral patterns, self‐confidence, and reasons for referral between traditionally trained residents (non–SBML‐trained), SBML‐trained residents, and hospitalist physicians. A random sample of 112 IM residents at an academic medical center completed thoracentesis SBML from December 2012 to May 2015. We surveyed physicians caring for hospitalized patients with thoracenteses during the same time period and compared referral patterns, self‐confidence, and reasons for referral. SBML‐trained resident thoracentesis skills improved from a median of 57.6% (interquartile range [IQR] 43.3–76.9) at pretest to 96.2% (IQR 96.2–100.0) at post‐test (P < 0.001). Surveys demonstrated that traditionally trained residents were more likely to refer to IR and cited lower confidence as reasons. SBML‐trained residents were more likely to perform bedside thoracenteses. Hospitalist physicians were most likely to refer to pulmonary medicine and cited lack of time to perform the procedure as the main reason. SBML‐trained residents were most confident about their thoracentesis skills, despite hospitalist physicians having more experience. This study identifies confidence and time as reasons physicians refer thoracenteses rather than perform them at the bedside. Thoracentesis SBML boosts skills and promotes bedside procedures that are safe and less expensive than referrals. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2016;11:792–795. © 2016 Society of Hospital Medicine
Molecular epidemiology and clinical severity of Human Bocavirus (HBoV) 1–4 in children with acute gastroenteritis from Pune, Western India
Authors: Lasure Neha , Gopalkrishna Varanasi
Published: June 2016

Although acute gastroenteritis is a major public health problem worldwide, ∼40% of the cases remain undiagnosed for any etiological agent. Human Bocavirus (HBoV) has been detected frequently in feces of diarrhoeic children suggesting its possible etiological involvement in the disease. HBoV has not been reported in association with acute gastroenteritis from India. Fecal samples (n = 418) collected from children (age ≤5 years) hospitalized with acute gastroenteritis, between January 2009 and December 2011, from three local hospitals were examined for presence of HBoV using PCR targeting the partial VP1/VP2 capsid region (∼575 bp) followed by phylogenetic analysis. HBoV was detected in 24/418 (5.7%) cases. Co‐infection was observed in 5/24 (21%) cases. HBoV infections occurred in children ≤12 months of age. Peak HBoV activity was observed in monsoon and post monsoon season. All four HBoV genotypes were detected in the study region. Major clinical symptoms of HBoV mono infections included diarrhoea (100%), fever (90%), dehydration (74%), and vomiting (58%). Dehydration was observed in all of the HBoV2–4 cases and in 50% of the HBoV1 cases. Clinical severity varied with genotype (HBoV2 > HBoV1 > HBoV3 > HBoV4). HBoV2 cases recorded severe and very severe infections. The study illustrates prevalence and vast genetic diversity of HBoVs in acute gastroenteritis. It highlights the clinical features of HBoV1–4 infections and sheds light on clinical impact of HBoV genotypes in gastroenteritis. J. Med. Virol. 89:17–23, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
HHV‐6 and seizure: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mohammadpour Touserkani Fatemeh , Gaínza‐Lein Marina , Jafarpour Saba , Brinegar Katelyn , Kapur Kush , Loddenkemper Tobias
Published: June 2016

Human herpesvirus‐6 (HHV‐6) is a common infection in childhood. This systematic review aims to assess the relationship between HHV‐6 infection and seizure disorders based on available literature. MEDLINE database was searched using a search strategy. We included studies that were published after 1993 in English, and described patients with HHV‐6 infection and accompanying seizure or status epilepticus. We identified 503 articles, and included 147 studies. Meta‐analysis results showed a 0.21 detection rate of HHV‐6 in febrile seizure patients. In the febrile seizure group (110 cases), 76 patients had simple and 34 had complex febrile seizures. Patients with “HHV‐6 infection and status epilepticus” had a mean age of 16.24 months. In children with febrile illnesses, a higher index of clinical suspicion for HHV‐6 infection may be required. Further studies including CSF and brain tissue may be needed to validate relationships between HHV6 infection and epilepsy. J. Med. Virol. 89:161–169, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Acute exacerbation of hepatitis C in hepatocellular carcinoma patients receiving chemotherapy
Authors: Lin Ji‐Wei , Chang Ming‐Ling , Hsu Chao‐Wei , Chen Yi‐Cheng , Liang Kung‐Hao , Huang Ya‐Hui , Lin Chen‐Chun , Yeh Chau‐Ting
Published: June 2016

Acute hepatitis C exacerbations can occur in cancer patients carrying hepatitis C virus (HCV) when receiving systemic chemotherapy. However, clinical studies evaluating these complications remain rare due to the lack of clinically proven effective and tolerable anti‐HCV treatments at late cancer stages. Furthermore, no data were available regarding hepatitis C exacerbation in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients receiving chemotherapy. To address this issue, 48 patients with HCV‐related advanced HCC, who underwent systemic chemotherapy using 5‐ fluorouracil, cisplatin, and mitoxantrone from 2008 to 2014 were analyzed. Nine patients developed acute hepatitis exacerbations defined by HCV‐RNA elevation ≥10‐fold and alanine transaminase (ALT) elevation ≥5‐fold of the upper normal limit. Six were genotype 1b and 3 were genotype 2. Three patterns of clinical courses were observed including single episode of exacerbation (n = 5), fluctuated flares (n = 3), and delayed exacerbation (n = 1). Hepatic failure developed in five patients. Patients with acute exacerbations were less likely to have pretreatment ascites (11.1% vs. 53.8%; P = 0.028) and displayed a lower baseline ALT (44.1 ± 28.5 U/L vs. 72.6 ± 19.2 U/L; P = 0.007). Paradoxically, despite a high risk of hepatic failure, occurrence of hepatitis C exacerbation was associated with a favorable overall survival (P = 0.027; 22.8 vs. 5.4 months). In conclusion, hepatitis C exacerbation can occur in HCC patients receiving chemotherapy, leading to liver failure. However, the flare was associated with a better overall survival, possibly due to its association with a better baseline liver function. J. Med. Virol. 89:153–160, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of cloud and humidity on atmospheric extinction coefficient derived from visual range observations in Iranian major airports
Authors: Sabetghadam Samaneh , Khoshsima Masoud , Ahmadi‐Givi Farhang
Published: June 2016

Visibility impairment, one of the restricting phenomena for aviation, results from light scattering and absorption. In this study, the historical visibility database for the period of 1981–2010 is used to obtain extinction coefficient according to the Koschmieder theory in the four busiest airports in Iran, including Tehran‐Mehrabad, Mashhad, Shiraz and Isfahan. The long‐term trend of extinction coefficient and its seasonal variations are investigated using 10th and 90th percentiles of extinction data to show the visual range in each airport. Correlation of the long‐term visibility trend with relative humidity (RH) and cloudiness is also examined. The comparison of seasonal mean extinctions shows the noticeable effect of local climate. The highest extinction coefficient value in each airport is seen during winter, while the lowest value occurs in summer. The seasonal mean extinction coefficient level in winter is about 0.1 km−1 higher than those of the other seasons. This is likely due to pollutants trapped by the stagnant cold air that partly obstruct visibility and increase the extinction in wintertime. There is not an outstanding variation of the tenth percentile of the extinction coefficient in the four airports. The low variation may relate to the definition of the upper threshold in visibility. Analysis shows that there is a positive correlation between extinction and humidity in all the airports that indicates the increase of scattering by hygroscopic particles with increasing humidity, such effect would be accentuated in high RH. The same result is seen for different percentages of cloudiness. To minimize the effects of humidity and cloudiness on the long‐term visibility trend, the days with the relative humidity values more than 70% and cloudiness of more than 5/8 of the sky are removed from the visibility trend analysis. The trends of the screened days are nearly parallel to the trends of raw data, but with a slight difference in each airport. The overall filtered long‐term trends show the increase of extinction coefficient at all the airports that emphasize the effect of pollution on the trend of light extinction within the whole period of this study. Eliminating the meteorological factors from the raw data does not change the overall increasing trend of extinction at Tehran and Isfahan airports. It suggests that the changes in air quality are responsible for the long‐term visibility degradation at these two stations that are located in the two most highly industrialized and polluted cities in Iran.
CD146 defines commitment of cultured annulus fibrosus cells to express a contractile phenotype
Authors: Nakai Tomoko , Sakai Daisuke , Nakamura Yoshihiko , Nukaga Tadashi , Grad Sibylle , Li Zhen , Alini Mauro , Chan Danny , Masuda Koichi , Ando Kiyoshi , Mochida Joji , Watanabe Masahiko
Published: June 2016

Characterization of cells is important for facilitating cell‐based therapies for degenerative diseases of intervertebral discs. For this purpose, we analyzed mouse annulus fibrosus cells by flowcytometory to detect phenotypic change in their primary cultures. After examination of sixteen cell surface proteins, we focused on CD146 that solely increased during culture expansion. CD146 is known to be a marker for mesenchymal stem cells and for their vascular smooth muscle commitment with expression of contractile phenotype enhanced by SM22α. We sorted CD146+ cells to elucidate their characteristics and the key factors that play a role in this change. Whole cell cultures showed the ability for tripotent differentiation toward mesenchymal lineages, whereas sorted CD146+ cells did not. Expression of CD146 was elevated by addition of transforming growth factor β1, and sorted CD146+ cells expressed higher levels of mRNA for SM22α and Elastin than did CD146− cells. Morphologically, CD146+ cells more broadly deposited extracellular type I collagen than CD146− cells and showed filamentous actin bundles traversing their cytoplasm and cell–cell junctions. Moreover, CD146+ cells demonstrated significantly higher gel contraction properties than CD146− cells when they were embedded in collagen gels. Human annulus fibrosus CD146+ cells also showed higher contractility. Immunohistochemistry determined CD146+ cells localized to the outermost annulus layers of mouse intervertebral disc tissue with co‐expression of SM22α. These results suggest that increment of CD146 expression indicates gradual change of cultured annulus fibrosus cells to express a contractile phenotype and that transforming growth factor β1 enhances this cellular commitment. © 2016 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:1361–1372, 2016.
Raman spectroscopy of melamine‐formaldehyde resin microparticles exposed to processing in complex plasma
Authors: Semenov A. V. , Pergament A. L. , Pikalev A. A.
Published: June 2016

We explore the characterization of melamine formaldehyde resin (MF‐R) micron‐sized particles, immersed in argon, neon and argon–oxygen plasmas, using Raman spectroscopy. It is shown that plasma treatment of MF‐R results in modification of its chemical composition. Particularly, a decrease in the intensities of the Raman scattering bands, corresponding to both formaldehyde C―H and melamine C―N and N―H bonds, is observed. The band at 980–990 cm−1, associated with breathing vibrations of the triazine rings, undergoes the most significant changes, and the greatest modifications of the spectra are observed after exposure to Ar and Ar–O2 plasma, whilst for the MF‐R particles exposed to Ne plasma these modifications are less pronounced. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of pentosanase on the solubilisation and degradation of arabinoxylan extracted from whole and refined wheat flour
Authors: Yang Wei , Jiang Zhijian , Liu Liya , Lin Yanjun , Wang Li , Zhou Sumei
Published: June 2016

BACKGROUND

The quality improvement capability of pentosanase (Pn) for whole‐wheat Chinese steamed bread (CSB) is not as efficient as that for refined CSB. However, the underlying mechanism remains to be elucidated. In this work, water‐extractable arabinoxylan (WEAX) and water‐unextractable solids (WUS) were extracted from whole and refined wheat flour, and then treated with Pn under the conditions similar to CSB‐making. Solubilisation and degradation of arabinoxylan (AX) caused by Pn treatment were determined.

RESULTS

WEAX from whole flour exhibited higher molecular weight than that from refined flour before and after the treatment with equivalent Pn. Compared with WUS from refined flour, WUS from whole flour had a much lower dissolution degree but the degradation of AX released from the WUS was more efficiently. Moreover, AX released from WUS for refined flour showed a higher Ara/Xyl ratio and the percentage of residual ferulic acid in WUS decreased more significantly.

CONCLUSION

The difference in quality improvement degree for Pn in whole‐wheat and refined CSB might be mainly explained by its effect on WUS. That is, Pn contributed much more to the solubilisation of WUS from refined flour but provoked degradation predominantly on AX solubilised from WUS isolated from whole flour. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Atrophy of the tongue following complete versus partial hypoglossal nerve transection in a canine model
Authors: Chambers Kyle J. , Anthony Douglas C. , Randolph Gregory W. , Hartnick Christopher J. , Stopa Edward G. , Song Phillip C.
Published: June 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

The hypoglossal nerve (XII) has been used as a donor nerve in facial and laryngeal reinnervation. The purpose of this study was to investigate the neuromuscular changes that occur within the tongue following partial or complete transection of XII using a canine model.

Study Design

Histopathological comparison of tongue denervation following two types of XII resection in a canine model.

Methods

Ten adult canines underwent complete unilateral resection of XII or resection of only the medial terminal branch of the hypoglossal nerve (mXII). After 6 months of recovery, tongue specimens were analyzed histopathologically using whole cross‐sections. Routine histologic sections were assessed by two neuropathologists blinded to the type of denervation. The cross‐sectional area was calculated of both sides of the tongue, and the amount of myosin was quantified morphometrically using immunohistochemistry for myosin (antimyosin heavy chain, fast isotype). Statistical comparison between partial and complete denervation was performed using the Student t test.

Results

Six months following XII transection, quantitative measures of the cross‐sectional area of the tongue and content of myosin demonstrated severe muscle atrophy on the operated side of the tongue for both groups, compared to the nonoperated side. For partial transection involving only mXII, the degree of atrophy was less severe (P < .05).

Conclusions

This study provides new histological information demonstrating that partial resection of the hypoglossal nerve, sacrificing only the proximal medial branch of the hypoglossal nerve (mXII), results in less severe atrophy of the tongue than complete transection of the entire hypoglossal nerve.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 126:2689–2693, 2016
Tuning the Selectivity of Biodegradable Antimicrobial Cationic Polycarbonates by Exchanging the Counter‐Anion
Authors: Isik Mehmet , Tan Jeremy P. K. , Ono Robert J. , Sanchez‐Sanchez Ana , Mecerreyes David , Yang Yi Yan , Hedrick James L. , Sardon Haritz
Published: June 2016

There is a growing interest in modern healthcare to develop systems able to fight antibiotic resistant bacteria. Antimicrobial cationic biodegradable polymers able to mimic antimicrobial peptides have shown to be effective against both Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria. In these systems, the hydrophilic–hydrophobic ratio and the cationic charge density play a pivotal role in defining the killing efficiency. Nevertheless, many of these antimicrobial polymers show relatively low selectivity as defined by the relative toxicity to mammalian cells or hemolysis relative to pathogens. In this study, a series of polycarbonates containing pendant quaternary ammoniums are used to understand the role of different counter‐anions including chloride, citrate, malonate, benzoate, acetate, lactate and trifluoroacetate, and the antibiotic penicillin on antimicrobial efficacy and selectivity. Interestingly, it is found that in spite of the strong antimicrobial activity of trifluoroacetate and benzoate anions, they prove to be much less hemolytic than chloride anion. It is believed that the proper selection of the anion could enhance the potential of antimicrobial polymers to fight against clinically relevant pathogenic infections, while concurrently mitigating harmful side effects.

image
Electrospun Gelatin Fibers with a Multiple Release of Antibiotics Accelerate Dermal Regeneration in Infected Deep Burns
Authors: Chen Jianmei , Liu Zongguang , Chen Maohua , Zhang Hong , Li Xiaohong
Published: June 2016

Electrospun fibers of hydrophilic polymers meet challenges in a rapid degradation of fiber matrices and discharge of antibiotics to comply with requirements of infection control as a dermal regeneration template. In the current study, a pH conversion process is initially developed to ensure fluent electrospinning, an efficient in situ cross‐linking of electrospun gelatin fibers with oxidized alginate and simultaneous loading of gentamicin sulfate (GS) and hydrophobic ciprofloxacin into fibers. The dual drug‐loaded fibers indicate a complete release of GS during 6 d and a sustained release of ciprofloxacin for over three weeks, and the antibiotics release indicates significant growth inhibitions on Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus epidermidis. The wound healing efficacy is evaluated on a deep burn model infected with 108 CFU of P. aeruginosa. Compared with fibers with loaded individual drugs, the concomitant release of GS and ciprofloxacin significantly reduces the bacteria numbers in wound and livers, at around 2.30 × 105 and 1.25 × 103 CFU after 3 d, respectively. The wound re‐epithelization, blood vessel formation, collagen deposition, and tissue remodeling process are accelerated with a complete healing observed after 21 d. This study provides a feasible strategy to design cross‐linked hydrophilic fibers with an extended drug release for biomedical applications.

image
Switching the Stiffness of Polyelectrolyte Assembly by Light to Control Behavior of Supported Cells
Authors: Ulasevich Sviatlana A. , Brezhneva Nadzeya , Zhukova Yulia , Möhwald Helmuth , Fratzl Peter , Schacher Felix H. , Sviridov Dmitry V. , Andreeva Daria V. , Skorb Ekaterina V.
Published: June 2016

Polyelectrolyte block copolymer micelles assembled thin film is switched in response to local photocatalytic reactions on titanium dioxide, resulting in a layer of variable height, stiffness in response to visible light irradiation. Preosteoblasts migrate toward stiffer side of the substrates.

image
Uniform a priori estimates for a class of horizontal minimal equations
Authors: Sa Earp Ricardo
Published: June 2016

In the product space we obtain uniform a priori C0 horizontal length estimates, uniform a priori C1 boundary gradient estimates, as well as uniform modulus of continuity, for a class of horizontal minimal equations. In two independent variables, we derive an uniform global a priori C1 estimates and we infer an existence result.