bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Viscosity modification of high‐oleic sunflower and castor oils with acid oils‐derived estolides for lubricant applications
Authors: García‐Zapateiro Luis A. , Franco Jóse M. , Valencia Concepción , Delgado Miguel A. , Gallegos Críspulo , Ruiz‐Méndez Maria V.
Published: July 2013

The use of estolides as additives to increase the viscosity of vegetable oils for lubricant applications was investigated. For this purpose, high‐oleic sunflower (HOSO) and castor (CO) oils were blended with estolides derived from acid oils resulting from vegetable oil refining process (HOSO and olive pomace acid oils). These blends were characterized from both viscous and tribological point of views. Significant increments in viscosity were generally found when added estolides were synthetized using sulphuric acid as catalyst, compared to p‐toluensulphonic acid catalyst. Estolides prepared from these two by‐products gave rise to similar viscosity modification in HOSO, yielding maximum viscosity increments of 322 and 362%, at 10°C, respectively. Smaller viscosity modifications were obtained for CO/estolide blends, with maximum increments in kinematic viscosity of 84 and 152%, respectively. Generally, the addition of estolides to HOSO yielded a significant increase in the temperature dependence of viscosity. The addition of acid oils‐derived estolides slightly improved CO thermal dependence of viscosity for lubricant applications. Although wear was significantly reduced by adding these estolides to any of these vegetable oils, the addition of acid oils‐derived estolides to CO increased the friction coefficient at low rotational speeds, extending the boundary lubrication regime to higher Sommerfeld number values. On the contrary, a single Stribeck master curve was obtained for HOSO/estolide blends.
Visible‐Light‐Driven Photoredox Catalysis in the Construction of Carbocyclic and Heterocyclic Ring Systems
Authors: Xuan Jun , Lu Liang‐Qiu , Chen Jia‐Rong , Xiao Wen‐Jing
Published: July 2013

Carbocyclic and heterocyclic ring systems are important structural architectures in many bioactive natural products, as well as in a variety of fine chemicals. The utilization of visible‐light photocatalytic strategies to construct these ring systems has received considerable attention in the past few years. This microreview presents a brief summary of the use of visible‐light photoredox catalytic strategies for the synthesis of carbocyclic and heterocyclic targets.
Enhanced Photocurrent Response of Titania‐Nanotube Heterojunction Devices Capped with Titanium Disilicide
Authors: Ishihara Hidetaka , Kannarpady Ganesh K. , Woo Justin , Biris Alexandru S.
Published: July 2013

The coating of titania nanotubes to enhance their photocurrent response is presented. Electrochemically anodized titania nanotubes were capped by coating a 25 nm layer of titanium disilicide using the radio frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering technique. The optical properties of titania nanotubes were unchanged as a result of coating, but the titanium disilicide acted as an enhanced charge‐transfer barrier, which reduced the electron–hole recombination on the surface of the titania nanotubes. A considerable increase in the photocurrent density was observed for the coated titania nanotubes resulting from the enhanced charge‐transfer process. As both the electrochemical anodization and RF magnetron sputtering technique are highly scalable, the composite device could be useful in designing cheaper photoanodes for energy applications, as well as environmental applications such as water purification.
A Bayesian multivariate analysis of children's exposure to pesticides
Authors: Cressie N. , Morara M. , Buxton B. , McMillan N. , Strauss W. , Wilson N.
Published: July 2013

In this article, we present a multivariate Bayesian analysis of the relationships, in preschool children, between environmental pathways of exposure to a nonpersistent pesticide, chlorpyrifos, and its corresponding biomarker in urine, trichloropyridinol. The analysis uses the 3 years of data from the Pesticide Exposures of Preschool Children Over Time study. Hierarchical Bayesian analysis of pathways of exposure has gained popularity in recent years, where missing and censored data are modeled, and measurement and regression errors are accounted for in a single hierarchical statistical model. Here we consider multivariate pathways, where chlorpyrifos and its metabolite trichloropyridinol are modeled jointly in the environmental media. In this article, we analyze each of the three years of the study, focusing on the within‐year multivariate nature of the Pesticide Exposures of Preschool Children Over Time data set. We present the results in a way that allows for an easy comparison of the fitted parameters over time. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Envelope‐based pushover analysis procedure for the approximate seismic response analysis of buildings
Authors: Brozovič Marko , Dolšek Matjaž
Published: July 2013

An envelope‐based pushover analysis procedure is presented that assumes that the seismic demand for each response parameter is controlled by a predominant system failure mode that may vary according to the ground motion. To be able to simulate the most important system failure modes, several pushover analyses need to be performed, as in a modal pushover analysis procedure, whereas the total seismic demand is determined by enveloping the results associated with each pushover analysis. The demand for the most common system failure mode resulting from the ‘first‐mode’ pushover analysis is obtained by response history analysis for the equivalent ‘modal‐based’ SDOF model, whereas demand for other failure modes is based on the ‘failure‐based’ SDOF models. This makes the envelope‐based pushover analysis procedure equivalent to the N2 method provided that it involves only ‘first‐mode’ pushover analysis and response history analysis of the corresponding ‘modal‐based’ SDOF model. It is shown that the accuracy of the approximate 16th, 50th and 84th percentile response expressed in terms of IDA curves does not decrease with the height of the building or with the intensity of ground motion. This is because the estimates of the roof displacement and the maximum storey drift due to individual ground motions were predicted with a sufficient degree of accuracy for almost all the ground motions from the analysed sets. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Unique transcriptome signature of mouse microglia
Authors: Beutner Clara , Linnartz‐Gerlach Bettina , Schmidt Susanne V. , Beyer Marc , Mallmann Michael R. , Staratschek‐Jox Andrea , Schultze Joachim L. , Neumann Harald
Published: July 2013

Microglial cells can be derived directly from the dissociated brain tissue by sorting procedures, from postnatal glial cultures by mechanic isolation or from pluripotent stem cells by differentiation. The detailed molecular phenotype of microglia from different sources is still unclear. Here, we performed a whole transcriptome analysis of flow cytometry‐sorted microglia, primary postnatal cultured microglia, embryonic stem cell derived microglia (ESdM), and other cell types. Microglia and ESdM, both cultured in serum‐free medium, were closely related to sorted microglia and showed a unique transcriptome profile, clearly distinct to other myeloid cell types, T cells, astrocytes, and neurons. ESdM and primary cultured microglia showed strong overlap in their transcriptome. Only 143 genes were differentially expressed between both cell types, mainly derived from immune‐related genes with a higher activation status of proinflammatory and immune defense genes in primary microglia compared to ESdM. Flow cytometry analysis of cell surface markers CD54, CD74, and CD274 selected from the microarray confirmed the close phenotypic relation between ESdM and primary cultured microglia. Thus, assessment of genome‐wide transcriptional regulation demonstrates that microglial cells are unique and clearly distinct from other macrophage cell types.
Aldh1L1 is expressed by postnatal neural stem cells in vivo
Authors: Foo Lynette C. , Dougherty Joseph D.
Published: July 2013

The metabolic enzyme for folate, Aldh1L1, has been shown to be expressed robustly in astrocytes of the brain. It is now well accepted that astrocytes in certain regions of the adult brain also serve as neural stem cells. Here, we examined whether Aldh1L1 is also expressed in postnatal neural stem cells. In vitro, cells in neural stem cell culture conditions have robust Aldh1L1 promoter activity. In vivo, in the adult brain, astroctyes in neurogenic regions express Aldh1L1 in a pattern consistent with inclusion in neural stem cells, and analysis of Aldh1L1+ cell transcriptome profiles from neurogenic regions reveal a robust enrichment of known regulators of neurogenesis. Genetic fate mapping with Aldh1L1 BAC Cre animals reveals adult‐born neuroblasts of the rostral migratory stream are derived from Aldh1L1 expressing cells, as are sporadic neurons in other regions of the brain. Combining these lines of evidence from transgenic animals, cell culture, transcriptome profiling, and fate mapping, we conclude that Aldh1L1 is also expressed in neural stem cells in the brain. These findings may influence the future design of experiments utilizing Aldh1L1 genetic tools, and also suggest existing Aldh1L1 bacTRAP mice may be of use for further experiments profiling neural stem cells in vivo.
Radiative constraints on the minimum atomic oxygen concentration in the mesopause region
Authors: Mlynczak Martin G. , Hunt Linda A. , Marshall B. Thomas , Mertens Christopher J. , Russell James M. , Siskind David , Thompson R. Earl , Gordley Larry L.
Published: July 2013

Atomic oxygen [O] plays a fundamental role in the photochemistry and energy budget of the terrestrial mesopause region (80–100 km). [O] is difficult to measure directly and is typically inferred at night from measurements of hydroxyl [OH] or molecular oxygen [O2] emissions. During the day, measurements of ozone [O3] concentration are used to infer [O]. These inferences carry significant uncertainties [Mlynczak et al., 2013a]. Recently, Mlynczak et al. [2013b] have used energy balance principles to set an upper limit on the annual global mean [O] concentration in the mesopause region. In this paper, we use night measurements of OH emission to set a lower limit on the global annual mean atomic oxygen concentration. These independent, radiatively constrained values of the maximum and minimum atomic oxygen concentration also place constraints on the magnitude of dynamical processes in the annual global mean energy budget of the mesopause region.
COPING WITH THE ECONOMIC CONSEQUENCES OF ILL HEALTH IN INDONESIA
Authors: Sparrow Robert , de Poel Ellen Van , Hadiwidjaja Gracia , Yumna Athia , Warda Nila , Suryahadi Asep
Published: July 2013

We assess the economic risk of ill health for households in Indonesia and the role of informal coping strategies. Using household panel data from the Indonesian socio‐economic household survey (Susenas) for 2003 and 2004, and applying fixed effects Poisson models, we find evidence of economic risk from illness through medical expenses. For the poor and the informal sector, ill health events impact negatively on income from wage labour, whereas for the non‐poor and formal sector, it is income from self‐employed business activities which is negatively affected. However, only for the rural population and the poor does this lead to a decrease in consumption, whereas the non‐poor seem to be able to protect current household spending.

Borrowing and drawing on family network and buffers, such as savings and assets, seem to be key informal coping strategies for the poor, which may have negative long‐term effects.

While these results suggest scope for public intervention, the economic risk from income loss for the rural poor is beyond public health care financing reforms. Rather, formal sector employment seems to be a key instrument for financial protection from illness, by also reducing income risk. © 2015 The Authors. Health Economics Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
THE CYCLICAL BEHAVIOUR OF PUBLIC AND PRIVATE HEALTH EXPENDITURE IN CHINA
Authors: Chen Gang , Inder Brett , Lorgelly Paula , Hollingsworth Bruce
Published: July 2013

This paper studies short‐run cyclical behaviour of public (government and social) and private health expenditure and GDP using both time series and panel data techniques. First, national time series data have been used within a multivariate Beveridge–Nelson decomposition framework to construct the permanent and cyclical components. The correlation analysis results for the cyclical components suggest that current public health expenditure is pro‐cyclical while there is no clear evidence of a correlation between cycles in private health expenditure and in GDP growth. Next, using an instrumental variable method and the generalised method of moments estimator, provincial‐level panel data analyses confirm pro‐cyclical impacts of government spending on health. The provincial analysis also suggests that private health expenditure in urban China has a pro‐cyclical association with GDP growth, but a lack of good instruments makes it difficult to identify a clear causal link between cycles in income growth and private health expenditure. The results suggest two policy recommendations relevant to public health expenditure, in line with China's current health reforms. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Robot‐assisted Sistrunk operation via a retroauricular approach for thyroglossal duct cyst
Authors: Kim Chul‐Ho , Byeon Hyung Kwon , Shin Yoo Seob , Koh Yoon Woo , Choi Eun Chang
Published: July 2013

Background

Traditionally, simple excisions of midline neck masses were typically performed through an incision on the overlying skin causing displeasing cosmetic outcomes. From the recent demonstrations to overcome these disappointing aesthetic results from overt scars, we propose a novel approach to successfully remove lesions with satisfactory cosmetic outcomes from well‐hidden scars. A detailed surgical technique is provided.

Methods

A 20‐year‐old female patient with thyroglossal duct cyst (TGDC) was successfully treated via a retroauricular approach utilizing the robotic surgical system.

Results

The operative procedure was successfully completed with no conversion to open surgery. The operative time was reasonable and there were no intraoperative complications. Videographic demonstration of the robotic‐assisted surgery is included in this study online.

Conclusion

Surgical removal of midline neck mass (TGDC) via a retroauricular approach utilizing the robotic surgical system can be a technically feasible and safe treatment option with excellent cosmetic outcomes. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 36: 456–458, 2014
Effect of xanthohumol and 8‐prenylnaringenin on MCF‐7 breast cancer cells oxidative stress and mitochondrial complexes expression
Authors: Blanquer‐Rosselló M. Mar , Oliver Jordi , Valle Adamo , Roca Pilar
Published: July 2013

Xanthohumol (XN) and 8‐prenylnaringenin (8PN) are hop (Humulus lupulus L.) polyphenols studied for their chemopreventive effects on certain cancer types. The breast cancer line MCF‐7 was treated with doses ranging from 0.001 to 20 µM of XN or 8PN in order to assess the effects on cell viability and oxidative stress. Hoechst 33342 was used to measure cell viability and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was determined by 2′,7′‐dichlorofluorescein diacetate. Catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione reductase enzymatic activities were determined and protein expression of sirtuin1, sirtuin3, and oxidative phosphorylation system (OXPHOS) were done by Western blot. Treatments XN 0.01, 8PN 0.01, and 8PN 1 µM led to a decrease in ROS production along with an increase of OXPHOS and sirtuin expression; in contrast, XN 5 µM gave rise to an increase of ROS production accompanied by a decrease in OXPHOS and sirtuin expression. These results suggest that XN in low dose (0.01 µM) and 8PN at all assayed doses (0.001–20 µM) presumably improve mitochondrial function, whereas a high dose of XN (5 µM) worsens the functionality of this organelle. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 2785–2794, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
PERCEIVED ENVIRONMENTAL CORRELATES AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: WHAT NEIGHBORHOOD ASPECTS REALLY MATTER FOR MOTHERS AND FATHERS OF YOUNG CHILDREN?
Authors: Hamilton Kyra , Cuddihy Tom , White Katherine M
Published: July 2013

Limited research has been conducted with at‐risk populations in examining perceived environmental correlates of physical activity (PA); thus, we examined this relationship among parents with young children, a group at risk for physical inactivity. Parents (252 mothers, 206 fathers) completed a questionnaire assessing measures of perceived neighborhood environment and a 1‐week follow‐up of PA behavior. Mothers were more likely than fathers to perceive their neighborhood as unsafe to go for walks at night and less likely to perceive transit stops within 10–15 minutes walking distance, sidewalks on most streets, and facilities to bicycle. Adjusting for demographics, shops within easy walking distance, sidewalks on most streets, and having no more than one motor vehicle were associated with being active for both sexes. Access to transit stops and free/low cost recreational facilities were also associated with mothers’ PA. These findings suggest that environmental factors may support parents being active at recommended levels.
EXPLAINING THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN ADOLESCENT PARENTING AND PRESCHOOLERS’ SCHOOL READINESS: A RISK PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Fagan Jay , Lee Yookyong
Published: July 2013

This study examined whether mother and father risk, child risk, family risk, and mother and father cognitive stimulation mediated the association between adolescent age status of co‐residential mothers and fathers and 48‐month child school readiness. Using the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study‐Birth cohort, it was found that the children of adolescent mothers and fathers scored lower on emerging literacy and math than those born to adult parents. The findings showed that individual mother and father cumulative risk and cumulative family risk at various times during early childhood partially mediated the associations between adolescent parent status and child outcomes as well as between young adult parent status and child outcomes. These findings indicated that multiple domains of risk, including father, mother, and family risk should be taken into account in order to gain a fuller understanding of the effects of adolescent parenting (and young adult parenting) on child outcomes.
PREDICTORS OF STUDY RETENTION FROM A MULTISITE STUDY OF INTERVENTIONS FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES EXPOSED TO VIOLENCE
Authors: Cross Amanda Brown , Jaycox Lisa H. , Hickman Laura J. , Schultz Dana , Barnes‐Proby Dionne , Kofner Aaron , Setodji Claude
Published: July 2013

Evaluation of interventions for children exposed to violence is critical for informing dissemination of effective services nationally, but retention rates in such studies are typically low, jeopardizing intent‐to‐treat analytic approaches. We examine predictors of retention (demographics, violence exposure, child mental health, caregiver demographics, and engagement in intervention) in a large multisite national study of interventions for children exposed to violence. Our analyses found that families were more likely to be retained in the study at 6 months if caregivers rated their own physical health as poor or fair, the child experienced higher levels of maltreatment, or the family was assigned to the intervention group within the study. In models limited to those families in the study's intervention group, only receipt of services was significantly related to study retention. Methods with which to increase retention in family therapy programs for at‐risk families are discussed.
Colonization of frog Rana temporaria L. urinary bladder by Gram‐negative bacteria leads to decreased effect of arginine‐vasotocin on water reabsorption from the urinary bladder
Authors: Fock Ekaterina , Lavrova Elena , Parnova Rimma
Published: July 2013

In frogs and toads the urinary bladder is very important for the maintenance of water balance due to its ability to store water which can be reabsorbed under the action of arginine‐vasotocin (AVT). The usage of isolated bladders as a model for studying the osmotic water permeability (OWP) regulation has a disadvantage which relates to high variability of AVT effect among individuals, some showing insensitivity to the hormone. We hypothesized that the response of the bladder to AVT could depend on the colonization of the mucosal epithelium by Gram‐negative bacteria. To test this, paired hemibladders of the frog Rana temporaria were used for measurement of OWP and for analysis of Gram‐negative bacteria in the bladder tissue or isolated epithelial cells. Among the 206 frogs studied, 41% were infected by different Enterobacteriaceae, with prevalence of Hafnia alvei and Escherichia coli. In infected bladders the basal level of OWP was unchanged, whereas OWP stimulated by AVT was reduced (non‐infected: 2.53 ± 0.13, n = 59, infected: 1.21 ± 0.17 µL min−1 cm−2, n = 38, for the 15 min of AVT action, P < 0.001). In the sample, 100% of hemibladders that responded to AVT very weakly (OWP <0.5 µL min−1 cm−2) had a bacterial infection. Overnight treatment of hemibladders with mucosal lipopolysaccharide E. coli decreased OWP induced by AVT, forskolin, or IBMX lowering basal and stimulated level of cAMP. The data obtained indicate that the frog bladder epithelium could be colonized by Gram‐negative bacteria, probably of cloacal origin, leading to reduction of sensitivity to AVT and to impairment of the urinary bladder to provide osmoregulation. J. Exp. Zool. 319A: 487–494, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tectonic and sedimentary structures in the northern Chukchi region, Arctic Ocean
Authors: Hegewald Anne , Jokat Wilfried
Published: July 2013

The interpretation of tectonic and sedimentary structures in the northern Chukchi region, Arctic Ocean, is important to enhance our understanding of the tectonic evolution of this region. Therefore, multichannel seismic lines as well as seismic wide‐angle reflection and refraction data were acquired in the northern Chukchi region during the RV Polarstern ARK‐XXIII/3 summer expedition in 2008. These data have been processed and interpreted for the three main geological provinces (Chukchi Plateau, Chukchi Abyssal Plain, and Mendeleev Ridge) to describe the sedimentary and basement structures of the northern Chukchi region. Furthermore, using the age control of five exploration wells drilled near the coast of Alaska in combination with additional seismic reflection lines located on the Chukchi Shelf, we were able to date sediment horizons within the research area. In total, six sediment horizons with ages between Barremian/Hauterivian and the Top Miocene were identified. Especially, the Top Oligocene horizon forms a pronounce unconformity on the Chukchi Plateau and on the Mendeleev Ridge flanks. The origin of this unconformity can be associated with the opening of the Fram Strait indicating a significant change in the Arctic Ocean current system.
Fault dislocation modeled structure of lobate scarps from Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera digital terrain models
Authors: Williams N. R. , Watters T. R. , Pritchard M. E. , Banks M. E. , Bell J. F.
Published: July 2013

Before the launch of the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, known characteristics of lobate scarps on the Moon were limited to studies of only a few dozen scarps revealed in Apollo‐era photographs within ~20° of the equator. The Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera now provides meter‐scale images of more than 100 lobate scarps, as well as stereo‐derived topography of about a dozen scarps. High‐resolution digital terrain models (DTMs) provide unprecedented insight into scarp morphology and dimensions. Here, we analyze images and DTMs of the Slipher, Racah X‐1, Mandel'shtam‐1, Feoktistov, Simpelius‐1, and Oppenheimer F lobate scarps. Parameters in fault dislocation models are iteratively varied to provide best fits to DTM topographic profiles to test previous interpretations that the observed landforms are the result of shallow, low‐angle thrust faults. Results suggest that these faults occur from the surface down to depths of hundreds of meters, have dip angles of 35–40°, and have typical maximum slips of tens of meters. These lunar scarp models are comparable to modeled geometries of lobate scarps on Mercury, Mars, and asteroid 433 Eros, but are shallower and ~10° steeper than geometries determined in studies with limited Apollo‐era data. Frictional and rock mass strength criteria constrain the state of global differential stress between 3.5 and 18.6 MPa at the modeled maximum depths of faulting. Our results are consistent with thermal history models that predict relatively small compressional stresses that likely arise from cooling of a magma ocean.
Reflection of solar wind hydrogen from the lunar surface
Authors: Funsten H. O. , Allegrini F. , Bochsler P. A. , Fuselier S. A. , Gruntman M. , Henderson K. , Janzen P. H. , Johnson R. E. , Larsen B. A. , Lawrence D. J. , McComas D. J. , Möbius E. , Reisenfeld D. B. , Rodríguez D. , Schwadron N. A. , Wurz P.
Published: July 2013

The solar wind continuously flows out from the Sun and directly interacts with the surfaces of dust and airless planetary bodies throughout the solar system. A significant fraction of solar wind ions reflect from an object's surface as energetic neutral atoms (ENAs). ENA emission from the Moon was first observed during commissioning of the Interstellar Boundary Explorer (IBEX) mission on 3 December 2008. We present the analysis of 10 additional IBEX observations of the Moon while it was illuminated by the solar wind. For the viewing geometry and energy range (> 250 eV) of the IBEX‐Hi ENA imager, we find that the spectral shape of the ENA emission from the Moon is well‐represented by a linearly decreasing flux with increasing energy. The fraction of the incident solar wind ions reflected as ENAs, which is the ENA albedo and defined quantitatively as the ENA reflection coefficient RN, depends on the incident solar wind speed, ranging from ~0.2 for slow solar wind to ~0.08 for fast solar wind. The average energy per incident solar wind ion that is reflected to space is 30 eV for slow solar wind and 45 eV for fast solar wind. Once ionized, these ENAs can become pickup ions in the solar wind with a unique spectral signature that reaches 3vSW. These results apply beyond the solar system; the reflection process heats plasmas that have significant bulk flow relative to interstellar dust and cools plasmas having no net bulk flow relative to the dust.
Fetal MRI as a complementary technique after prenatal diagnosis of persistent vitelline artery in an otherwise normal fetus
Authors: Bravo Coral , De León‐Luis Juan , Gámez Francisco , Ruiz Yolanda , Pintado Pilar , Pérez Ricardo , Ortiz‐Quintana Luis
Published: July 2013

Prenatal ultrasound is the standard for the diagnosis of fetal anomalies. However, fetal MRI has emerged as a valuable diagnosis tool to complete the study of fetal malformations. Type II single umbilical artery results from the absence of both umbilical arteries and persistence of the vitelline artery. It has been described only in fetuses with sirenomelia or caudal regression syndrome. We report a favorable outcome in a normal fetus in which prenatal ultrasound and MRI showed a single umbilical artery arising from the aorta. The etiology of such a finding and its possible consequences are discussed.J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;38:951–954. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Thermodynamics and kinetic properties of halostable endoglucanase from Aspergillus fumigatus ABK9
Authors: Das Arpan , Jana Arijit , Paul Tanmay , Halder Suman Kumar , Ghosh Kuntal , Maity Chiranjit , Mohapatra Pradeep Kumar Das , Pati Bikas Ranjan , Mondal Keshab Chandra
Published: July 2013

An endoglucanase from Aspergillus fumigatus ABK9 was purified from the culture extract of solid‐state fermentation and its some characteristics were evaluated. The molecular weight of the purified enzyme (56.3 kDa) was determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, zymogram analysis and confirmed by MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry. The enzyme was active optimally at 50 °C, pH 5.0 and stable over a broad range of pH (4.0–7.0) and NaCl concentration of 0–3.0 M. The pKa1 and pKa2 of the ionizable groups of the active sites were 2.94 and 6.53, respectively. The apparent Km, Vmax, and Kcat values for carboxymethyl cellulose were 6.7 mg ml−1, 775.4 µmol min−1, and 42.84 × 104 s−1, respectively. Thermostability of the enzyme was evidenced by the high activation energy (91.45 kJ mol−1), large enthalpy for activation of denaturation (88.77 kJ mol−1), longer half‐life (T1/2) (433 min at 50 °C), higher melting temperature (Tm) (73.5 °C), and Q10 (1.3) values. All the characteristics favors its suitability as halotolerant and thermostable enzyme during bioprocessing of lignocellulosic materials.
Comparison of endoscopic versus 3D CT derived airway measurements
Authors: Calloway Hollin E. , Kimbell Julia S. , Davis Stephanie D. , Retsch‐Bogart George Z. , Pitkin Elizabeth A. , Abode Kathleen , Superfine Richard , Zdanski Carlton J.
Published: July 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To understand: 1) how endoscopic airway measurements compare to three‐dimensional (3D) CT derived measurements; 2) where each technique is potentially useful; and 3) where each has limitations.

Study Design

Compare airway diameters and cross‐sectional areas from endoscopic images and CT derived 3D reconstructions.

Methods

Videobronchoscopy was performed and recorded on an adult‐sized commercially available airway mannequin. At various levels, cross‐sectional areas were measured from still video frames using a referent placed via the biopsy port. A 3D reconstruction was generated from a high resolution CT of the mannequin; planar sections were cut at similar cross‐sectional levels; and cross‐sectional areas were obtained.

Results

At three levels of mechanically generated tracheal stricture, the differences between the endoscopic measurement and CT‐derived cross‐sectional area were 1%, 0%, and 7% (1.8, 0.8, and 14 mm2). At the vocal folds, the difference was 9% (7.8 mm2). The tip of the epiglottis and width of the epiglottis differed by 27% and 10% (18.73 mm2, 0.40mm). The airway measurements at the base of tongue, minimal cross‐sectional area of the pharynx, and choana differed by 26%, 36%, and 30% (101.40 mm2, 36.67 mm2, 122.71 mm2).

Conclusions

Endoscopy is an effective tool for obtaining airway measurements compared with 3D reconstructions derived from CT. Concordance is best in geometrically simple areas where the entire cross‐section measured is visible within one field of view (trachea, round; vocal folds, triangular) versus geometrically complex areas that encompass more than one field of view (i.e. pharynx, choana).

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 123:2136–2141, 2013
Awake versus drug‐induced sleep endoscopy: Evaluation of airway obstruction in obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnoea syndrome
Authors: Cavaliere Matteo , Russo Federico , Iemma Maurizio
Published: July 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To compare the degree and patterns of upper airway obstruction, as detected by endoscopy with Müller's maneuver versus drug‐induced sleep endoscopy (DISE).

Methods

Sixty‐six patients (60 males and 6 females), with a mean age of 49.59 ± 13.04 years, underwent videonasal‐pharyngo‐laryngoscopy to asses anatomy and dynamic behavior of upper airways during the Müller's maneuver awake, and during DISE by Propofol with boluses refracted technique.

Results

In the majority of our patients, we detected an obstruction due to nasal septal deviation (91%) and turbinate hypertrophy (100%). The pattern of the obstruction caused by the soft palate and the tongue base was similar in DISE and Müller's maneuver, whereas the registered degree was significantly higher in DISE. Concerning the larynx, 22.7% of patients showed an involvement of the epiglottis during sedation that was not assessable during wakefulness.

Conclusions

DISE is a simple additional tool to plan surgical treatment in patients with OSAHS, and in our hands has proven to be more accurate and precise than endoscopy with Müller's maneuver. Laryngoscope, 123:2315–2318, 2013
A novel technique for clinical assessment of laryngeal nerve conduction: Normal and abnormal results
Authors: Sulica Lucian , Carey Bridget , Branski Ryan C.
Published: July 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To describe a novel conduction study of the laryngeal nerves, including normal values and abnormal findings.

Study Design

Prospective nonrandomized.

Methods

Seventeen healthy adult volunteers, as well as three patients with clinically identified laryngeal neuropathy, underwent low‐level brief electrical stimulation of the laryngeal mucosa by means of a wire inserted via a transnasal flexible laryngoscope. Bilateral hookwire electrodes recorded the result in the laryngeal adductor muscles.

Results

This study yields an early response ipsilateral to the side of stimulation (LR1), which is uniform and consistent (right = 13.2 ± 0.80 msec; left = 15.2 ± 1.20 msec), and late bilateral responses (ipsilateral LR2 [LR2i] and contralateral LR2 [LR2c]), which exhibit greater variation in latency and morphology (right LR2i = 50.5 ± 3.38 msec; left LR2i = 52.2 msec; right LR2c = 50.7 ± 4.26; left LR2c = 50.6 ± 4.07). Findings in abnormal patients differ significantly from normal, consistent with the distribution of neuropathy.

Conclusions

We describe a novel, clinically applicable conduction study of laryngeal nerves. Normative electrodiagnostic values and variations of the reflex responses of the laryngeal adductor muscles in response to irritative stimulation of the laryngeal mucosa (Laryngeal Closure Reflex) are proposed. By enabling the determination of electrophysiological parameters of the superior laryngeal and recurrent laryngeal branches of cranial nerve X (CN X), this procedure, which is used as an adjunct to laryngeal electromyography, may provide earlier and more accurate information regarding the extent and grade of nerve injury. Because injury grade relates directly to prognosis, the information derived from this test may have clinical relevance in determining optimal treatment.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 123:2202–2208, 2013
Biomimetic Materials and Scaffolds for Myocardial Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Silvestri Antonella , Boffito Monica , Sartori Susanna , Ciardelli Gianluca
Published: July 2013

One of the main challenges in tissue engineering/regenerative medicine (TERM) is the repair of damaged heart tissue, avoiding or minimizing ventricular remodeling which leads to ventricular dilatation and hypertrophy, sphericity increase, and functionality loss. Several approaches have been described to restore or enhance the contractility of the failing heart. One of them is based on the fabrication of 3D substrates that can be implanted in the infarcted area to provide an efficient support to the regenerative process. This review focuses on the strategies adopted to design and realize polymeric scaffolds for heart TERM. The implementation of different polymers and the design of scaffold architecture are described.
Synthesis of MDMO‐PPV Nanoparticles Via In Situ Sulfinyl Precursor Route Polymerization in Miniemulsion
Authors: Ethirajan Anitha , D'Olieslaeger Lien , Vandenbergh Joke , Lutsen Laurence , D'Olieslaeger Marc , Vanderzande Dirk , Junkers Tanja
Published: July 2013

A facile route to synthesize poly[(2‐methoxy‐5‐(3′,7′,‐dimethyloctyloxy))‐1,4‐phenylene vinylene] polymer nanoparticles (NPs) using the miniemulsion technique in combination with the sulfinyl precursor route polymerization is presented. The reaction conditions involving high temperature are overcome by using ethylene glycol as a polar continuous phase. Particles can be easily transferred into the water phase without the need for additional surfactant. The characteristic UV–vis absorption and the strong fluorescence exhibited by the polymer along with the molecular weight obtained prove the success of the synthetic strategy. Such in situ synthesis of PPV in the form of NPs can be extended to other conjugated polymers, opening new doors for synthesizing luminescent NPs that have tremendous potential in biomedicine and printable electronics.

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Pilot study of breast sensation after breast reconstruction: Evaluating the effects of radiation therapy and perforator flap neurotization on sensory recovery
Authors: Magarakis Michael , Venkat Raghunandan , Dellon A. Lee , Shridharani Sachin M. , Bellamy Justin , Vaca Elbert E. , Jeter Stacie C. , Zoras Odysseas , Manahan Michele A. , Rosson Gedge D.
Published: July 2013

Background

Some sensation to the breast returns after breast reconstruction, but recovery is variable and unpredictable. We primarily sought to assess the impact of different types of breast reconstruction [deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flaps versus implants] and radiation therapy on the return of sensation.

Methods

Thirty‐seven patients who had unilateral or bilateral breast reconstruction via a DIEP flap or implant‐based reconstruction, with or without radiation therapy (minimum follow‐up, 18 months; range, 18–61 months) were studied. Of the 74 breasts, 27 had DIEP flaps, 29 had implants, and 18 were nonreconstructed. Eleven breasts with implants and 10 with DIEP flaps had had prereconstruction radiation therapy. The primary outcome was mean patient‐perceived static and moving cutaneous pressure threshold in nine areas. We used univariate and multivariate analyses to assess what independent factors affected the return of sensation (significance, P < 0.05).

Results

Implants provided better static (P = 0.071) and moving sensation (P = 0.041) than did DIEP flaps. However, among irradiated breasts, skin over DIEP flaps had significantly better sensation than did that over implants (static, P = 0.019; moving, P = 0.028). Implant reconstructions with irradiated skin had significantly worse static (P = 0.002) and moving sensation (P = 0.014) than did nonirradiated implant reconstructions.

Conclusions

Without irradiation, skin overlying implants is associated with better sensation recovery than DIEP flap skin. However, with irradiation, DIEP flap skin had better sensation recovery than did skin over implants. Neurotization trended toward improvement in sensation in DIEP flaps. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 33:421–431, 2013.
A unified a posteriori error estimator for finite volume methods for the stokes equations
Authors: Wang Junping , Wang Yanqiu , Ye Xiu
Published: July 2013

In this paper, the authors established a unified framework for deriving and analyzing a posteriori error estimators for finite volume methods for the Stokes equations. The a posteriori error estimators are residual based and are applicable to various finite volume methods for the Stokes equations. In particular, the unified theoretical analysis works well for finite volume schemes arising from using trial functions of conforming, nonconforming, and discontinuous finite element functions, yielding new results that are not seen in the existing literature. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
CDX2 regulates multiple trophoblast genes in bovine trophectoderm CT‐1 cells
Authors: Schiffmacher Andrew T. , Keefer Carol L.
Published: July 2013

The bovine trophectoderm (TE) undergoes a dramatic morphogenetic transition prior to uterine endometrial attachment. Many studies have documented trophoblast‐specific gene expression profiles at various pre‐attachment stages, yet genetic interactions within the transitioning TE gene regulatory network are not well characterized. During bovine embryogenesis, transcription factors OCT4 and CDX2 are co‐expressed during early trophoblast elongation. In this study, the bovine trophectoderm‐derived CT‐1 cell line was utilized as a genetic model to examine the roles of CDX2 and OCT4 within the bovine trophoblast gene regulatory network. An RT‐PCR screen for TE‐lineage transcription factors identified expression of CDX2, ERRB, ID2, SOX15, ELF5, HAND1, and ASCL2. CT‐1 cells also express a nuclear‐localized, 360 amino acid OCT4 ortholog of the pluripotency‐specific human OCT4A. To delineate the roles of CDX2 and OCT4 within the CT‐1 gene network, CDX2 and OCT4 levels were manipulated via overexpression and siRNA‐mediated knockdown. An increase in CDX2 negatively regulated OCT4 expression, but increased expression of IFNT, HAND1, ASCL2, SOX15, and ELF5. A reduction of CDX2 levels exhibited a reciprocal effect, resulting in decreased expression of IFNT, HAND1, ASCL2, and SOX15. Both overexpression and knockdown of CDX2 increased ETS2 transcription. In contrast to CDX2, manipulation of OCT4 levels only revealed a positive autoregulatory mechanism and upregulation of ASCL2. Together, these results suggest that CDX2 is a core regulator of multiple trophoblast genes within CT‐1 cells. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 80: 826–839, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Contribution of denervated muscle to contractures after neonatal brachial plexus injury: Not just muscle fibrosis
Authors: Nikolaou Sia , Liangjun Hu , Tuttle Lori J. , Weekley Holly , Christopher Wylie , Lieber Richard L. , Cornwall Roger
Published: July 2013

Introduction: We investigated the contribution of muscle fibrosis to elbow flexion contractures in a murine model of neonatal brachial plexus injury (NBPI). Methods: Four weeks after NBPI, biceps and brachialis fibrosis were assessed histologically and compared with the timing of contracture development and the relative contribution of each muscle to contractures. Modulus of elasticity and hydroxyproline (collagen) content were measured and correlated with contracture severity. The effect of halofuginone antifibrotic therapy on fibrosis and contractures was investigated. Results: Elbow contractures preceded muscle fibrosis development. The brachialis was less fibrotic than the biceps, yet contributed more to contractures. Modulus and hydroxyproline content increased in both elbow flexors, but neither correlated with contracture severity. Halofuginone reduced biceps fibrosis but did not reduce contracture severity. Conclusions: Contractures after NBPI cannot be explained solely by muscle fibrosis, arguing for investigation of alternate pathophysiologic targets for contracture prevention and treatment. Muscle Nerve 49:398–404, 2014
Physiological cross‐sectional area of the oblique head of the adductor pollicis is greater than its transverse counterpart: Implications for functional testing
Authors: Stamenkovic Alexander , Munro Bridget J. , Peoples Gregory E.
Published: July 2013

Introduction: Despite structural distinction between the transverse and oblique heads of the adductor pollicis, in vivo testing continues to consider the adductor pollicis as functionally simplistic. As a muscle's architecture is a strong indicator of function, in this study we aimed to determine whether the physiological cross‐sectional areas (PCSAs) of both heads were uniform. Methods: Classical, microdissection, and chemical dissection procedures were conducted on 10 cadaveric left hands to determine structural origin and insertions. Architectural measures of muscle length (Lm), muscle weight (Wm), fascicle length (Lf), sarcomere length (Ls), and pennation angle (θ) were used to calculate PCSA and fascicle length:muscle length ratio (Lf:Lm). Results: The oblique head had greater variation in attachments, significantly greater PCSA (P = 0.008), and smaller Lf:Lm (P = 0.001) than its transverse counterpart. Conclusions: Muscle architecture suggests the oblique head has greater potential for force generation, and the transverse has greater potential for joint excursion. Muscle Nerve 49:405–412, 2014
Cramp‐fasciculation syndrome in patients with and without neural autoantibodies
Authors: Liewluck Teerin , Klein Christopher J. , Jones Lyell K.
Published: July 2013

Introduction: We investigated the clinical, electrophysiological and neural autoantibody characteristics in cramp‐fasciculation syndrome (CFS) patients. Methods: We reviewed Mayo Clinic records from 2000 to 2011 to identify clinically defined CFS patients who underwent neural autoantibody testing. Stored sera of patients who tested positive for antibodies to voltage‐gated potassium channel complex (VGKC complex) were analyzed further for leucine‐rich glioma‐inactivated 1 (LGI1) or contactin‐associated protein‐2 immunoglobulin G (CASPR2‐IgG) antibodies. Results: Thirty‐seven patients were identified. Twelve were seropositive for neural autoantibodies. Clinical manifestations were similar in seropositive and seronegative patients, although central and autonomic neuronal hyperexcitability symptoms were more common in seropositive cases. No patients had a malignancy. Repetitive tibial nerve stimulation at 10 Hz revealed longer afterdischarges in seropositive patients. Two of 7 patients with VGKC‐complex autoimmunity demonstrated LGI1 or CASPR2‐IgG antibodies. Only 2 of 12 seropositive patients required immunotherapy. Conclusions: VGKC‐complex autoimmunity occurs in a minority of CFS patients. Antibody positivity was associated with extramuscular manifestations, typically without malignancy. Target antigens within the VGKC complex remain unknown in most patients. Muscle Nerve 49:351–356, 2014
Cost of illness for neuromuscular diseases in the United States
Authors: Larkindale Jane , Yang Wenya , Hogan Paul F. , Simon Carol J. , Zhang Yiduo , Jain Anjali , Habeeb‐Louks Elizabeth M. , Kennedy Annie , Cwik Valerie A.
Published: July 2013

Introduction: We conducted a comprehensive study of the costs associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). and myotonic dystrophy (DM) in the U.S. Methods: We determined the total impact on the U.S. economy, including direct medical costs, nonmedical costs, and loss of income. Medical costs were calculated using a commercial insurance database and Medicare claims data. Nonmedical and indirect costs were determined through a survey of families registered with the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Results: Medical costs were driven by outpatient care. Nonmedical costs were driven by the necessity to move or adapt housing for the patient and paid caregiving. Loss of income correlated significantly with the amount of care needed by the patient. Conclusions: We calculated the annual per‐patient costs to be $63,693 for ALS, $50,952 for DMD, and $32,236 for DM. Population‐wide national costs were $1,023 million (ALS), $787 million (DMD), and $448 million (DM). Muscle Nerve 49:431–438, 2014
Positive numerical solution for a nonarbitrage liquidity model using nonstandard finite difference schemes
Authors: González‐Parra Gilberto , Arenasm Abraham J. , Chen‐Charpentier Benito M.
Published: July 2013

In this article, we construct a numerical method based on a nonstandard finite difference scheme to solve numerically a nonarbitrage liquidity model with observable parameters for derivatives. This nonlinear model considers that the parameters involved are observable from order book data. The proposed numerical method use a exact difference scheme in the linear convection‐reaction term, and the spatial derivative is approximated using a nonstandard finite difference scheme. It is shown that the proposed numerical scheme preserves the positivity as well as stability and consistence. To illustrate the accuracy of the method, the numerical results are compared with those produced by other methods. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 30: 210‐221, 2014