bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Internal medicine point‐of‐care ultrasound assessment of left ventricular function correlates with formal echocardiography
Authors: Johnson Benjamin K. , Tierney David M. , Rosborough Terry K. , Harris Kevin M. , Newell Marc C.
Published: July 2015

Purpose

Although focused cardiac ultrasonographic (FoCUS) examination has been evaluated in emergency departments and intensive care units with good correlation to formal echocardiography, accuracy for the assessment of left ventricular systolic function (LVSF) when performed by internal medicine physicians still needs independent evaluation.

Methods

This prospective observational study in a 640‐bed, academic, quaternary care center, included 178 inpatients examined by 10 internal medicine physicians who had completed our internal medicine bedside ultrasound training program. The ability to estimate LVSF with FoCUS as “normal,” “mild to moderately decreased,” or “severely decreased” was compared with left ventricular ejection fraction (>50%, 31–49%, and <31%, respectively) from formal echocardiography interpreted by a cardiologist.

Results

Sensitivity and specificity of FoCUS for any degree of LVSF impairment were 0.91 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.80, 0.97) and 0.88 (95% CI 0.81, 0.93), respectively. The interrater agreement between internal medicine physician‐performed FoCUS and formal echocardiography for any LVSF impairment was “good/substantial” with κ = 0.77 (p < 0.001), 95% CI (0.67, 0.87). Formal echocardiography was classified as “technically limited due to patient factors” in 20% of patients; however, echogenicity was sufficient in 100% of FoCUS exams to classify LVSF.

Conclusions

Internal medicine physicians using FoCUS identify normal versus decreased LVSF with high sensitivity, specificity, and “good/substantial” interrater agreement when compared with formal echocardiography. These results support the role of cardiac FoCUS by properly trained internal medicine physicians for discriminating normal from reduced LVSF. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 44:92–99, 2016
Prospective study of bezafibrate for the treatment of primary sclerosing cholangitis
Authors: Mizuno Suguru , Hirano Kenji , Isayama Hiroyuki , Watanabe Takeo , Yamamoto Natsuyo , Nakai Yousuke , Sasahira Naoki , Tada Minoru , Omata Masao , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: July 2015

Background

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic cholestatic disease. Medical treatments must be devised to avoid or postpone liver transplantation in PSC patients. No clinical trial has prospectively explored the efficacy of bezafibrate in PSC patients.

Methods

We conducted a prospective study of 12‐week bezafibrate treatment, with pre‐ and post‐treatment observation periods, in PSC patients. Bezafibrate was prescribed at 200 mg b.i.d. The primary endpoint was defined as improvements in liver function test (LFT) data after bezafibrate treatment. Changes in LFT data during the study period were assessed every 6 weeks.

Results

Fifteen patients were enrolled as planned, and 11 completed the study protocol. Biliary enzyme levels improved in all patients after bezafibrate treatment for 12 weeks. Hepatic enzyme levels improved in only seven of the 11 patients, and the efficacy of bezafibrate in PSC patients was thus 64%. LFT data (alkaline phosphatase and alanine aminotransferase levels) were reduced after bezafibrate treatment (both P < 0.05 by Wilcoxon's signed‐rank test), and both significantly increased after bezafibrate cessation (both P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Bezafibrate effectively improved LFT data in 64% of PSC patients. This is the first prospective clinical trial to evaluate the effect of bezafibrate in PSC patients.
A Facile Synthesis of Novel Allenylphosphinates Containing Multi Potential Asymmetric Centers
Authors: Zhang He , Yang Meng , Yao Lan , Ji Si‐Yu , Xu Zhong‐Yuan , Sun Yong‐Ming , Zhao Chang‐Qiu
Published: July 2015

The novel allenylphosphinates containing up to three axial and phosphorus asymmetric centers were prepared in excellent yields via the reactions of 6‐chloro‐6H‐dibenzo[c,e][1,2]oxaphosphinine to propargyl alcohols. During the process, the configuration of phosphorus determined the biphenyl axial chirality, stereospecifically forming (l)‐stereomers but did not influence the chirality of allenyl axis.
Utility of Octadecyl Amine in the Synthesis of Various Nitrogen Heterocycles: A Preliminary Investigation on Their Surface and Biological Activities
Authors: El‐Sayed Refat , Ahmed Saleh A.
Published: July 2015

The present work describes the synthesis of some heterocyclic compounds based pyrazole, triazole, pyrimidine, and pyridine derivatives. The synthesis of these heterocycles have been carried out by the reaction of ethyl‐3‐(octadecylamino)‐3‐oxopropanoate (2) with various reagents under suitable reaction conditions. Propoxylation of these heterocycles by using a number of propylene oxide moles afforded nonionic surface active agents, incorporating long alkyl chain having suitable molecular weight to obtain amphiphilic materials with hydrophilic–lipophilic equilibrium, which enhances solubility and biodegradability, hence lowers the toxicity to human beings, and becomes environmentally friendly. A series of useful properties such as surface and interfacial tensions, cloud point, wetting time, foam height, emulsion stability, critical micelle concentration (CMC), surface tension at the CMC (γCMC), efficiency (PC20), effectiveness (πCMC), surface excess (Γmax), and surface area (Amin) have been estimated. In addition, the antimicrobial activities of these compounds were screened.
How to perform and interpret cine MR enterography
Authors: Wnorowski Amelia M. , Guglielmo Flavius F. , Mitchell Donald G.
Published: July 2015

Magnetic resonance (MR) enterography has become a fundamental tool for small bowel evaluation. Multiphasic cine imaging is a useful component of MR enterography evaluation because it provides functional information about bowel motility. Cine MR enterography can be used to evaluate for strictures and adhesions. Bowel motility evaluation has been shown to increase pathologic lesion detection in Crohn's disease and has been incorporated into disease activity scoring systems. Currently, cine MR enterography remains underutilized. The purpose of this article is to outline how to perform and interpret cine MR enterography. The authors describe how to perform a multiphasic balanced steady state free precession sequence using different MR systems and give practical advice on how to display and interpret the cine sequence. Sample cases illustrate how the cine sequence complements standard MR enterography evaluation with T2‐weighted, contrast‐enhanced T1‐weighted, and diffusion‐weighted imaging. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;42:1180–1189.
Interobserver variability of selective region‐of‐interest measurement protocols for quantitative diffusion weighted imaging in soft tissue masses: Comparison with whole tumor volume measurements
Authors: Ahlawat Shivani , Khandheria Paras , Del Grande Filippo , Morelli John , Subhawong Ty K. , Demehri Shadpour , Fayad Laura M.
Published: July 2015

Background

To assess the interobserver reliability of three selective region‐of‐interest (ROI) measurement protocols for apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) quantifications in soft tissue masses (STMs) compared with whole tumor volume (WTV) ADC measurements.

Methods

Institutional review board approval was obtained and informed consent was waived. Three observers independently measured minimum and mean ADCs of 73 benign and malignant musculoskeletal STMs using three selective methods (single‐slice [SS], predefined three slices [PD], observer‐based [OB]) and WTV measurements at 3.0 Tesla. Minimum and mean ADC values derived from each method were compared with WTV measurements, and inter‐reader variation was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The time required for each method of ADC measurement was recorded.

Results

For the SS, PD, OB, and WTV methods, minimum ADC values ((×10−3 mm2/s)) were 0.97, 0.78, 0.73, and 0.67, respectively, and mean ADC values ((×10−3 mm2/s)) were 1.49, 1.49, 1.51, and 1.49, respectively. Interobserver agreement was good to excellent for the minimum and mean ADC values for the three readers using the SS, PD, OB, and WTV (ICC range 0.78–0.90). The SS, PD and OB methods required the least amount of measurement time (14 ± 5, 40 ± 17, and 38 ± 15 s, respectively) while the reference WTV method required the longest measurement time (111 ± 54 s) (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

While all selective and WTV measurements offer good to excellent interobserver agreement, the selective OB method of ADC measurement results in the closest values to WTV measurements and requires significantly less measurement time than that required for the WTV method. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;43:446–454.
Higher levels of oxidative DNA damage in cervical cells are correlated with the grade of dysplasia and HPV infection
Authors: Visalli Giuseppa , Riso Romana , Facciolà Alessio , Mondello Placido , Caruso Carmela , Picerno Isa , Di Pietro Angela , Spataro Pasquale , Bertuccio Maria Paola
Published: July 2015

The Human papillomavirus is responsible for the most common sexually transmitted infection and is also known to be an oncogenic virus that is associated with cervical, anogenital, and head‐neck cancers. The present study aims to assess whether oxidative DNA damage is correlated with the grade of HPV‐related lesions. Moreover, we evaluated clinical data and unhealthy lifestyles to verify their possible influence on the genesis of oxidative DNA damage in cervical cells. We quantified the amount of 8‐Oxo‐2′‐deoxyguanosine in DNA as a biomarker of oxidative damage in women with and without HPV infection. We also correlated oxidative damage with different stages of cervical lesions and available clinical data (e.g., HPV genotypes). To identify HPV infections, in which proteins with a transforming potential are produced, we performed a qualitative detection of HPV E6/E7 mRNA. Our results showed greater oxidative damage in HPV‐related dysplastic cervical lesions compared to samples with normal cytology, especially in women with high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesions. The latter showed a closed link with high‐risk HPV genotypes. Reactive oxygen species can induce DNA double‐strand breaks in both the host DNA and in the circular viral episome; this could facilitate the integration of the virus, promoting HPV carcinogenesis. Therefore, in HPV‐infected women, it could be useful to reduce additional resources of reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (RONS) with a healthy lifestyle. J. Med. Virol. 88:336–344, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Clinical course of partial virological responders under prolonged entecavir monotherapy in patients with chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Park Joo Han , Ahn Seon Joo , Cho Hyo Jung , Sun Kim Soon , Cheong Jae Youn , Cho Sung Won
Published: July 2015

Studies about long‐term entecavir (ETV) therapy for partial virological response (PVR) are lacking. This study aimed to assess the clinical course of PVR patients receiving ETV therapy and analyze the efficacy of tenofovir (TDF). We retrospectively evaluated 130 patients who showed a PVR to ETV. Among these patients, 102 were nucleot(s)ide analogue (NUC)‐naïve and 28 were lamivudine (LAM)‐experienced. The cumulative rates of VR were 54.1%, 70.8%, and 83.7% for the NUC‐naïve group and 37.0%, 42.8%, and 42.8% for the LAM‐experienced group after 24, 36, and 48 months of ETV therapy, respectively (P  = 0.008). Low HBV DNA level at 12 months (P < 0.001) and absence of a LAM treatment history (P  = 0.031) were significant associated factors for VR. In VR prediction at 36 months of ETV therapy in NUC‐naïve patients, HBV DNA level <95 IU/ml at 12 months showed a 92.9% sensitivity and a 78.3% specificity (AUROC, 0.909; P < 0.001). ETV resistance did not develop in NUC‐naïve patients with HBV DNA levels <95 IU/ml at 12 months. The cumulative probability of VR in patients who switched to or additionally received TDF was 91.3% at 15 months. Prolonged ETV therapy induced a VR without the risk of ETV resistance in NUC‐naïve patients with HBV DNA levels <95 IU/ml at 12 months. All patients with LAM‐experienced or NUC‐naïve with HBV DNA levels ≥95 IU/ml at 12 months should be switched to TDF rescue therapy. J. Med. Virol. 88:252–259, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Novel neural approach for parameter extraction of microwave transistor noise models
Authors: Marinković Zlatica , Ivković Nenad , Pronić‐Rančić Olivera , Marković Vera , Caddemi Alina
Published: July 2015

A novel approach for parameter extraction of microwave transistor noise models based on artificial neural networks is proposed in this work. Neural networks are applied to determine parameters of the noise model directly from the measured noise and small‐signal scattering parameters without any optimization procedure. Moreover, unlike the similar existing procedures, development of the extraction procedure does not require any measured data or optimizations in a circuit simulator, making the procedure more efficient, as described in detail in the paper. The approach has been applied to extraction of the Pospieszalski's noise model parameters for a specific pseudomorphic high‐electron‐mobility transistor (pHEMT) device working under different temperatures. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Extreme seasonal droughts and floods in Amazonia: causes, trends and impacts
Authors: Marengo J. A. , Espinoza J. C.
Published: July 2015

This paper reviews recent progress in the study and understanding of extreme seasonal events in the Amazon region, focusing on drought and floods. The review includes a history of droughts and floods in the past, in the present and some discussions on future extremes in the context of climate change and its impacts on the Amazon region. Several extreme hydrological events, some of them characterized as ‘once in a century’, have been reported in the Amazon region during the last decade. While abundant rainfall in various sectors of the basin has determined extreme floods along the river's main stem in 1953, 1989, 1999, 2009, 2012–2015, deficient rainfall in 1912, 1926, 1963, 1980, 1983, 1995, 1997, 1998, 2005 and 2010 has caused anomalously low river levels, and an increase in the risk and number of fires in the region, with consequences for humans. This is consistent with changes in the variability of the hydrometeorology of the basin and suggests that extreme hydrological events have been more frequent in the last two decades. Some of these intense/reduced rainfalls and subsequent floods/droughts were associated (but not exclusively) with La Niña/El Niño events. In addition, moisture transport anomalies from the tropical Atlantic into Amazonia, and from northern to southern Amazonia alter the water cycle in the region year‐to‐year. We also assess the impacts of such extremes on natural and human systems in the region, considering ecological, economic and societal impacts in urban and rural areas, particularly during the recent decades. In the context of the future climate change, studies show a large range of uncertainty, but suggest that drought might intensify through the 21st century.
Local delivery of mutant CCL2 protein‐reduced orthopaedic implant wear particle‐induced osteolysis and inflammation in vivo
Authors: Jiang Xinyi , Sato Taishi , Yao Zhenyu , Keeney Michael , Pajarinen Jukka , Lin Tzu‐hua , Loi Florence , Egashira Kensuke , Goodman Stuart , Yang Fan
Published: July 2015

Total joint replacement (TJR) has been widely used as a standard treatment for late‐stage arthritis. One challenge for long‐term efficacy of TJR is the generation of ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene wear particles from the implant surface that activates an inflammatory cascade which may lead to bone loss, prosthetic loosening and eventual failure of the procedure. Here, we investigate the efficacy of local administration of mutant CCL2 proteins, such as 7ND, on reducing wear particle‐induced inflammation and osteolysis in vivo using a mouse calvarial model. Mice were treated with local injection of 7ND or phosphate buffered saline (PBS) every other day for up to 14 days. Wear particle‐induced osteolysis and the effects of 7ND treatment were evaluated using micro‐CT, histology, and immunofluorescence staining. Compared with the PBS control, 7ND treatment significantly decreased wear particle‐induced osteolysis, which led to a higher bone volume fraction and bone mineral density. Furthermore, immunofluorescence staining showed 7ND treatment decreased the number of recruited inflammatory cells and osteoclasts. Together, our results support the feasibility of local delivery of 7ND for mitigating wear particle‐induced inflammation and osteolysis, which may offer a promising strategy for extending the life time of TJRs. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:58–64, 2016.
Lateglacial to Holocene relative sea‐level changes in the Stykkishólmur area, northern Snæfellsnes, Iceland
Authors: BRADER MARTIN D. , LLOYD JEREMY M. , BENTLEY MICHAEL J. , NEWTON ANTHONY J.
Published: July 2015

Comparatively little research has been undertaken on relative sea‐level (RSL) change in western Iceland. This paper presents the results of diatom, tephrochronological and radiocarbon analyses on six isolation basins and two coastal lowland sediment cores from the Stykkishólmur area, northern Snæfellsnes, western Iceland. The analyses provide a reconstruction of Lateglacial to mid‐Holocene RSL changes in the region. The marine limit is measured to 65–69 m above sea level (asl), with formation being estimated at 13.5 cal ka BP. RSL fall initially occurred rapidly following marine limit formation, until ca. 12.6 cal ka BP, when the rate of RSL fall decreased. RSL fell below present in the Stykkishólmur area during the early Holocene (by ca. 10 cal ka BP). The rates of RSL change noted in the Stykkishólmur area demonstrate lesser ice thicknesses in Snæfellsnes than Vestfirðir during the Younger Dryas, when viewed in the regional context. Consequently, the data provide an insight into patterns of glacio‐isostatic adjustment surrounding Breiðafjörður, a hypothesized major ice stream at the Last Glacial Maximum.
Characteristics and gel properties of gelatin from goat skin as affected by pretreatments using sodium sulfate and hydrogen peroxide
Authors: Mad‐Ali Sulaiman , Benjakul Soottawat , Prodpran Thummanoon , Maqsood Sajid
Published: July 2015

BACKGROUND

Goat skin can be used as an alternative raw material for gelatin production, in which pretreatment conditions can determine the characteristics or properties of the resulting gelatin. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of pretreatment using sodium sulfate (Na2SO4) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) on properties of goat skin gelatin.

RESULTS

Pretreatment of skin using Na2SO4 (0–1 mol L−1) increased the yield of gelatin in a concentration‐dependent manner. When skins with prior Na2SO4 treatment were bleached using H2O2 (0–2 mol L−1), the resulting gelatin showed higher yield and gel strength than those without prior Na2SO4 treatment. All gelatins had α‐chain as a major component, followed by β‐chain. The degradation induced by H2O2 was lower in gelatin with prior Na2SO4 treatment. L* values increased with increasing H2O2 concentrations (P < 0.05) due to the bleaching effect of H2O2. With Na2SO4 and H2O2 pretreatments, gelatin gel had a finer and more ordered microstructure. Gelatin had an imino acid content of 217 residues/1000 residues with gelling and melting temperature of 22.49 and 32.28 °C, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The optimal pretreatment conditions for gelatin extraction from goat skin included soaking the skin in 0.75 mol L−1 NaOH, followed by treatment using 0.75 mol L−1 Na2SO4 and subsequent bleaching with 2 mol L−1 H2O2. This resulted in gelatin with superior quality to the untreated counterpart. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Liver transplantation for metastatic neuroendocrine tumors: Outcomes and prognostic variables
Authors: Sher Linda S. , Levi David M. , Wecsler Julie S. , Lo Mary , Petrovic Lydia M. , Groshen Susan , Ji Lingyun , Uso Teresa Diago , Tector A. Joseph , Hamilton Ann S. , Marsh J. Wallis , Schwartz Myron E.
Published: July 2015

Background

Patient selection for liver transplantation for metastatic neuroendocrine tumors remains a topic of debate. There is no established MELD exception, making it difficult to obtain donor organs.

Methods

A multicenter database was created assessing outcomes for liver and multivisceral transplantation for metastatic neuroendocrine tumors and identifying prognostic factors for survival. Demographic, transplant, primary tumor site and management, pathology, recurrent disease and survival data were collected and analyzed. Survival probabilities were calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

Analysis included 85 patients who underwent liver transplantation November 1988–January 2012 at 28 centers. One, three, and five‐year patient survival rates were 83%, 60%, and 52%, respectively; 40 of 85 patients died, with 20 of 40 deaths due to recurrent disease. In univariate analyses, the following were predictors of poor prognosis: large vessel invasion (P < 0.001), extent of extrahepatic resection at liver transplant (P = 0.007), and tumor differentiation (P = 0.003). In multivariable analysis, predictors of poor overall survival included large vessel invasion (P = 0.001), and extent of extrahepatic resection at liver transplant (P = 0.015).

Conclusion

In the absence of poor prognostic factors, metastatic neuroendocrine tumor is an acceptable indication for liver transplantation. Identification of favorable prognostic factors should allow assignment of a MELD exception similar to hepatocellular carcinoma. J. Surg. Oncol. 2015 111:125–132. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Making a case for high‐volume robotic surgery centers: A cost‐effectiveness analysis of transoral robotic surgery
Authors: Rudmik Luke , An Wenyi , Livingstone Devon , Matthews Wayne , Seikaly Hadi , Scrimger Rufus , Marshall Deborah
Published: July 2015

Objective

To evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of transoral robotic surgery (TORS) compared to intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) for early stage (T1‐2, N0, M0) oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC).

Patients and Methods

A Markov decision tree model with a 5‐year time horizon was developed. Comparative groups were: i) TORS with concurrent ipsilateral neck dissection +/− adjunctive IMRT, and ii) primary IMRT. Primary outcome was cost/quality adjusted life year (QALY). Perspective was the United States third party payer. Costs and effects were discounted at a rate of 3.5%. A threshold and probabilistic sensitivity analysis were performed.

Results

TORS strategy cost $30,992 and provided 4.81 QALYs/patient. The IMRT strategy cost $26,033 and provided a total of 4.78 QALYs/patient. The incremental cost effectiveness ratio for TORS vs. IMRT in the reference case was $165,300/QALY. The probability that TORS is cost‐effective compared to IMRT at a maximum willingness‐to‐pay threshold of $50,000/QALY is 42%.

Conclusion

An IMRT strategy for management of early stage OPSCC is more likely to be cost‐effective compared to TORS. To improve the value of TORS for early stage OPSCC, consolidating TORS procedures to create high‐volume centers of excellence may be a potential strategy to increase incremental effectiveness and reduce incremental costs.J. Surg. Oncol. 2015 111:155–163. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Determination of furanic aldehydes in sugarcane bagasse by high‐performance liquid chromatography with pulsed amperometric detection using a modified electrode with nickel nanoparticles
Authors: da Silva José Luiz , Beluomini Maísa Azevedo , Stradiotto Nelson Ramos
Published: July 2015

A glassy carbon electrode chemically modified with nickel nanoparticles coupled with reversed‐phase chromatography with pulsed amperometric detection was used for the quantitative analysis of furanic aldehydes in a real sample of sugarcane bagasse hydrolysate. Chromatographic separation was carried out in isocratic conditions (acetonitrile/water, 1:9) with a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min, a detection potential of –50 mV vs. Pd, and the process was completed within 4 min. The analytical curves presented limits of detection of 4.0 × 10−7 mol/L and 4.3 × 10−7 mol/L, limits of quantification of 1.3 × 10−6 and 1.4 × 10−6 mol/L, amperometric sensitivities of 2.2 × 106 nA mol/L and 2.7 × 106 nA mol/L for furfural and 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural, respectively. The values obtained in this sample by the standard addition method were 1.54 ± 0.02 g/kg for 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural and 11.5 ± 0.2 g/kg for furfural. The results demonstrate that this new proposed method can be used for the quick detection of furanic aldehydes without the interference of other electroactive species, besides having other remarkable merits that include excellent peak resolution, analytical repeatability, sensitivity, and accuracy.
Determination of three kinds of banned drugs in milk powder by hybrid solid‐phase extraction purification combined with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry
Authors: Wu Pinggu , Cai Chenggang , Yang Dajin , Zhang Yanping , Hu Zhengyan , Wang Tianjiao
Published: July 2015

A gradient clean‐up method for the quantification of five kinds of banned drugs (two hormones, two sedatives, and one chloramphenicol) in milk powder was developed. We used the combination of solid‐phase extraction purification with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. Milk powder was initially hydrolyzed by β‐glucuronidase/arylsulfatase, and then the hydrolyzed solution was concentrated and purified using a C8and cation resin solid‐phase extraction column. To isolate hormones and chloramphenicol drugs, products from the previous step were diluted with methanol and further purified using a silica and diatomite solid‐phase extraction column. After derivatization, the drugs were analyzed by gas chromatography with mass spectrometry, and the hydrolyzed solution was diluted with 5% ammoniated methanol to purify sedatives before gas chromatography with mass spectrometry analysis. Results showed that after adding the banned drugs at concentrations of 0.3–10.0 μg/kg, the average recovery range was 78.2–97.3% with relative standard deviations of 5.3–12.5%. The limit of quantification of the banned drugs (S/N ≥ 10) was 0.3–5.0 μg/kg, whereas the limit of detection (S/N ≥ 3) was 0.1–2.0 μg/kg. The solid‐phase extraction gradient purification system was simple, rapid, and accurate, and could satisfy the detection requirements of hormone, sedatives, and chloramphenicol drugs when used together with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry.
Quality control assessment of polyherbal formulation based on a quantitative determination multimarker approach by ultra high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry using polarity switching combined with multivariate analysis
Authors: Chandra Preeti , Pandey Renu , Srivastva Mukesh , Kumar Brijesh
Published: July 2015

An ultra high performance liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry method has been developed and validated for the simultaneous quantification of 28 major bioactive compounds in Mentat tablet, a complex Indian herbal medicine used in the treatment of neurological disorder and improvement of mental health. Multiple‐reaction monitoring scanning was employed for quantification in positive and negative ion switching mode. The analysis was accomplished on Waters ACQUITY UPLC BEH C18 column with linear gradient elution of water/formic acid (0.1%) and acetonitrile/formic acid (0.1%) at a flow rate of 0.3 mL/min. The proposed method was validated with acceptable linearity (r2, 0.9984–0.9999), precision (RSD, 0.22–2.11%), stability (RSD, 0.16–1.78%), and recovery (RSD ≤ 3.74%), under optimum conditions. The limits of quantitation ranged from 0.28 to 3.88 ng/mL. The method was successfully applied for simultaneous determination of 28 compounds in 20 batches of Mentat tablet. Hierarchical cluster analysis and principal component analysis were performed to evaluate the similarity and variation of the 20 samples based on the characteristics of 28 bioactive compounds. Results indicated that this method is rapid, sensitive, and reliable to show the quality of the Mentat tablet's composition, hence may be used for quality control of polyherbal formulations having similar markers/raw herbs.
Determination of taurine in human tear fluid by capillary electrophoresis with indirect amperometric detection based on electrogenerated bromine
Authors: Du Fuying , Zhao Wenfeng , Cao Shunan , Fung Ying‐Sing
Published: July 2015

A new method for the determination of taurine was developed based on indirect amperometric detection after capillary electrophoresis. A serial dual‐electrode detector comprising an on column Pt film electrode (upstream electrode) and an end column Pt microdisk electrode (downstream electrode) was utilized to conduct the indirect amperometric detection. Bromide is oxidized to bromine at upstream electrode and reduced back to bromide at downstream electrode. Since taurine can react with bromine quantitatively and rapidly, its concentration can therefore be determined by the decrease of the current for bromine reduction at the downstream electrode. Principal experimental parameters governing the analytical performance were investigated and optimized. Under the optimal conditions, taurine can be baseline separated from interfering amino acids and the detection limit of 0.18 μM was obtained with a linear correlation coefficient of 0.999 over the concentration range of 0.5–60 μM. The developed method has been successfully applied in the determination of taurine in human tear fluid. The taurine level obtained was in good agreement with previous reports and recoveries for taurine spiked ranged from 92–95% with relative standard deviations within 4.6%, demonstrating the reliability of the developed method in the determination of taurine in human tear fluid.
Synthesis of City Branding Literature (1988–2014) as a Research Domain
Authors: Oguztimur Senay , Akturan Ulun
Published: July 2015

The purpose of this study is to systematically review the city branding literature, organize the subject matters and draw a map of the development and change in the city branding research domain. As a result, city branding literature is categorized under four thematic areas: (1) city branding concept, processes and measurement; (2) branding strategies; (3) social urbanism; and (4) branding culture and tourism. Most of the studies are research based. The qualitative methods are commonly used. There is a general tendency to describe the data but not to interpret the relations between the concepts and theories. Therefore, the knowledge is idiographic.
In situ observations of a doliolid bloom in a warm water filament using a video plankton recorder: Bloom development, fate, and effect on biogeochemical cycles and planktonic food webs
Authors: Takahashi Kazutaka , Ichikawa Tadafumi , Fukugama Chika , Yamane Misaki , Kakehi Shigeho , Okazaki Yuji , Kubota Hiroshi , Furuya Ken
Published: July 2015

We investigated distribution patterns of a doliolid (Dolioletta gegenbauri) bloom in relation to the physical environment using a video plankton recorder in the Oyashio–Kuroshio mixed water region. Using 12 km transects, doliolid blooms were encountered at a horizontal scale of about 2–3 km, which corresponds to submesoscale physical events. Doliolids were also consistently encountered in the subsurface layer above the pycnocline in warmer (> 14ºC) and higher‐salinity (> 34) water masses, and seawater density was the most critical factor affecting distribution depth. Compared to previous studies, the density and biomass of the blooms observed in this study (77 mgC m−3and 4600 inds m−3) were highest in the open ocean. Bloom formation consisted of two phases; first, the seeding population of a nurse stage increased rapidly to 2000 inds m−3by asexual reproduction, followed by asexual production of phorozooids. Estimated population clearance rates revealed that these dense patches could potentially sweep the surrounding water within 2–3 d. The incidence of exhausted and shrunken zooids was significantly correlated with patch density, suggesting that mortality was due to overgrazing. Shrunken doliolids appeared to sink below the pycnocline, corresponding to 8–17% of the particulate organic carbon flux at 150 m. Hydromedusae, pelagic polycheates, and sapphirinid copepods preyed on the doliolids. These results indicate that doliolids, which were seeded by populations originating from the Kuroshio, formed dense blooms in response to submesoscale physical events and would alter the sinking particle properties (i.e., biological pump) and the epipelagic food web structure through their grazing and mortality.
Targeted Imaging and Chemo‐Phototherapy of Brain Cancer by a Multifunctional Drug Delivery System
Authors: Hao Yongwei , Wang Lei , Zhao Yalin , Meng Dehui , Li Dong , Li Haixia , Zhang Bingxiang , Shi Jinjin , Zhang Hongling , Zhang Zhenzhong , Zhang Yun
Published: July 2015

The aim of this study was to develop multifunctional poly lactide‐co‐glycolide (PLGA) nanoparticles with the ability to simultaneously deliver indocyanine green (ICG) and docetaxel (DTX) to the brain by surface decoration with the brain‐targeting peptide angiopep‐2 to achieve combined chemo‐phototherapy for glioma under near‐infrared (NIR) imaging. ICG was selected as a near‐infrared imaging and phototherapy agent and DTX was employed as a chemotherapeutic agent. ICG and DTX were simultaneously incorporated into PLGA nanoparticles with higher stability. These nanoparticles were further decorated with angiopep‐2 via the outer maleimide group of 1,2‐distearoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphoethanolamine‐N‐[methoxy(polyethyleneglycol)‐2000]‐maleinimide incorporated in the nanoparticles. The NIR image‐guided chemo‐phototherapy of the angiopep‐2 modified PLGA/DTX/ICG nanoparticles (ANG/PLGA/DTX/ICG NPs) not only highly induced U87MG cell death in vitro, but also efficiently prolonged the life span of the brain orthotopic U87MG glioma xenograft‐bearing mice in vivo. Thus, this study suggests that ANG/PLGA/DTX/ICG NPs have the potential for combinatorial chemotherapy and phototherapy for glioma.
Synthesis of High Molecular Weight Cyclic Poly(ε‐caprolactone)s of Variable Ring Size Based on a Light‐Induced Ring‐Closure Approach
Authors: Wang Haodi , Zhang Li , Liu Binyuan , Han Bing , Duan Zhongyu , Qi Cuiyun , Park Dae‐Won , Kim Il
Published: July 2015

High molecular weight cyclic poly(ε‐caprolactone)s (cPCLs) with variable ring size are synthesized via light‐induced ring closure of α,ω‐anthracene‐terminated PCL (An‐PCL‐An). The ring size of cPCL is tunable simply by adjusting the polymer concentration from 10 to 100 mg mL−1 in THF. The cyclo­addition via the bimolecular cyclization of An‐PC‐An is well characterized by a variety of analyses such as 1H NMR and UV–vis spectroscopies, gel‐permeation chromatography, and differential scanning calorimetry. The reversible dimerization of An induced by heating enables the cyclic PCL to have a switchable “on–off” capability. This novel light‐induced ring‐closure technique can be one of the most powerful candidates for producing various well‐defined cyclic polymers in highly concentrated polymer solution.

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More Time with Tremor: The Experience of Essential Tremor Versus Parkinson's Disease Patients
Authors: Louis Elan D.
Published: July 2015

Background

A broad range of tremors occur in patients with essential tremor (ET) and Parkinson's disease (PD); despite this, there are virtually no published data that focus on the patient perspective. The aims were to (1) assess the subjective experience of tremor, comparing ET and PD patients and (2) assess the clinical correlates of that experience (i.e., what specific clinical characteristics were associated with more experienced tremor)?

Methods

One hundred twenty‐one ET and 100 PD cases enrolled in a cross‐sectional, clinical‐epidemiological study underwent a detailed clinical assessment, which included a series of standardized questionnaires and neurological examination. The question, “On a typical day, how many waking hours do you have tremor in any body part?” was also administered.

Results

Essential tremor cases reported more than 3 times the median number of waking hours experiencing tremor than PD cases: 10.1 ± 7.8 (median, 10.0) versus 5.5 ± 6.3 (median, 3.0) hours (P < 0.001). A small number of cases (especially ET) reported spending ≥16 h/day shaking. Greater number of hours experiencing tremor was associated with female gender, higher Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale scores, greater perceived disability, and, in ET, higher Essential Tremor Embarrassment Assessment scores.

Conclusions

ET patients reported more than 3 times the median number of waking hours experiencing tremor than PD patients. Certain clinical characteristics tracked with more reported tremor, and the number of such hours had clear clinical ramifications—greater number of hours was associated with both psychosocial and functional consequences.
Application of free temporoparietal fascial flap for recurrent neural adhesion of superficial radial nerve—A case report
Authors: Yamamoto Reiji , Motomiya Makoto , Sakurai Keisuke , Sekiguchi Hirotake , Funakoshi Tadanao , Iwasaki Norimasa
Published: July 2015

Because of its anatomical location, the superficial radial nerve is vulnerable to trauma as well as injury during various surgical procedures. Once the nerve adheres to surrounding scar tissue, radiating pain often occurs due to nerve traction caused by loss of smooth gliding. Since it has been reported that the success rate with neurolysis only is lower, additional preventive procedures for recurrent neural readhesion are recommended. In the current report, we describe our experience performing neurolysis followed by nerve coverage using a free temporoparietal fascial flap for recurrent neural adhesion of the superficial radial nerve. A 45‐year‐old male complained of motion pain of the left wrist and thumb joints caused by recurrent neural adhesion of the superficial radial nerve after a chain saw trauma and following multiple reconstructive procedures. The radiating pain completely disappeared after neurolysis performed by a previous surgeon; however, it recurred 4 weeks later. Four months after the previous neurolysis the patient underwent external neurolysis and covering of the nerve with a free temporoparietal fascial flap to prevent neural readhesion because local soft tissue could not be used due to the massive scar tissues on the forearm. One year after the secondary neurolysis, the symptoms of radiating pain during wrist and thumb motion were drastically improved. A free adipofascial flap such as a temporoparietal flap may be an option for prevention of neural readhesion after neurolysis of the superficial radial nerve in cases where a local flap cannot be used on the forearm. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 35:489–493, 2015.
Maternal obesity in females born small: Pregnancy complications and offspring disease risk
Authors: Mahizir Dayana , Briffa Jessica F. , Hryciw Deanne H. , Wadley Glenn D. , Moritz Karen M. , Wlodek Mary E.
Published: July 2015

Obesity is a major public health crisis, with 1.6 billion adults worldwide being classified as overweight or obese in 2014. Therefore, it is not surprising that the number of women who are overweight or obese at the time of conception is increasing. Obesity during pregnancy is associated with the development of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. The developmental origins of health and disease hypothesis proposes that perturbations during critical stages of development can result in adverse fetal changes that leads to an increased risk of developing diseases in adulthood. Of particular concern, children born to obese mothers are at a greater risk of developing cardiometabolic disease. One subset of the population who are predisposed to developing obesity are children born small for gestational age, which occurs in 10% of pregnancies worldwide. Epidemiological studies report that these growth‐restricted children have an increased susceptibility to type 2 diabetes, obesity, and hypertension. Importantly during pregnancy, growth‐restricted females have a higher risk of developing cardiometabolic disease, indicating that they may have an exacerbated phenotype if they are also overweight or obese. Thus, the development of early pregnancy interventions targeted to obese mothers may prevent their children from developing cardiometabolic disease in adulthood.
Challenging the understanding of significant improvement and outcome in schizophrenia – the concept of reliable and clinically significant change methods
Authors: Schennach Rebecca , Möller Hans‐Jürgen , Obermeier Michael , Seemüller Florian , Jäger Markus , Schmauss Max , Laux Gerd , Pfeiffer Herbert , Naber Dieter , Schmidt Lutz G. , Gaebel Wolfgang , Klosterkötter Joachim , Heuser Isabella , Maier Wolfgang , Lemke Matthias R. , Rüther Eckart , Klingberg Stefan , Gastpar Markus , Musil Richard , Spellmann Ilja , Riedel Michael
Published: July 2015

Significant changes of schizophrenia patients during inpatient treatment were evalutaed and compared to established outcome criteria. The concept of reliable and clinically significant change methods was applied to three hundred and ninety‐six patients suffering from a schizophrenia spectrum disorder. First, information on whether or not the change of the patient's condition is sufficient in order to declare that it is beyond a measurement error or random effect (= reliable change) was evaluated and in a second step it was observed if the reliable change was clinically meaningful (= clinically significant change). Different Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale for Schizophrenia (PANSS) thresholds were applied to define the clinically significant change (40, 45 and 50 points). These changes were then compared to established outcome criteria such as response and remission. Seventy‐nine of the 396 patients (20%) showed a reliable improvement of symptoms, whereas 70% improved without achieving a reliable change of their condition. Of the 79 patients achieving a reliable change during treatment 8‐15% concurrently showed a clinically significant change depending on the respective PANSS threshold. In contrast, 56% of the patients achieved response and 60% were in remission at discharge when applying established outcome criteria. Our results showed that a rather small number of schizophrenia patients were found to reliably change during inpatient treatment, with even less patients achieving a clinically significant change. The concept of reliable and clinically significant changes revealed to be a lot more stringent than today's established outcome criteria and should be critically evaluated regarding its use in schizophrenia patients. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐resolution variable‐density 3D cones coronary MRA
Authors: Addy Nii Okai , Ingle R. Reeve , Wu Holden H. , Hu Bob S. , Nishimura Dwight G.
Published: July 2015

Purpose

To improve the spatial/temporal resolution of whole‐heart coronary MR angiography by developing a variable‐density (VD) 3D cones acquisition suitable for image reconstruction with parallel imaging and compressed sensing techniques.

Methods

A VD 3D cones trajectory design incorporates both radial and spiral trajectory undersampling techniques to achieve higher resolution. This design is used to generate a VD 3D cones trajectory with 0.8 mm/66 ms isotropic spatial/temporal resolution, using a similar number of readouts as our previous fully sampled cones trajectory (1.2 mm/100 ms). Scans of volunteers and patients are performed to evaluate the performance of the VD trajectory, using non‐Cartesian L1‐ESPIRiT for high‐resolution image reconstruction.

Results

With gridding reconstruction, the high‐resolution scans experience an expected drop in signal‐to‐noise and contrast‐to‐noise ratios, but with L1‐ESPIRiT, the apparent noise is substantially reduced. Compared with 1.2 mm images, in each volunteer, the L1‐ESPIRiT 0.8 mm images exhibit higher vessel sharpness values in the right and left anterior descending arteries.

Conclusion

Coronary MR angiography with isotropic submillimeter spatial resolution and high temporal resolution can be performed with VD 3D cones to improve the depiction of coronary arteries. Magn Reson Med 74:614–621, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
pH imaging of mouse kidneys in vivo using a frequency‐dependent paraCEST agent
Authors: Wu Yunkou , Zhang Shanrong , Soesbe Todd C. , Yu Jing , Vinogradov Elena , Lenkinski Robert E. , Sherry A. Dean
Published: July 2015

Purpose

This study explored the feasibility of using a pH responsive paramagnetic chemical exchange saturation transfer (paraCEST) agent to image the pH gradient in kidneys of healthy mice.

Methods

CEST signals were acquired on an Agilent 9.4 Tesla small animal MRI system using a steady‐state gradient echo pulse sequence after a bolus injection of agent. The magnetic field inhomogeneity across each kidney was corrected using the WASSR method and pH maps were calculated by measuring the frequency of water exchange signal arising from the agent.

Results

Dynamic CEST studies demonstrated that the agent was readily detectable in kidneys only between 4 to 12 min postinjection. The CEST images showed a higher signal intensity in the pelvis and calyx regions and lower signal intensity in the medulla and cortex regions. The pH maps reflected tissue pH values spanning from 6.0 to 7.5 in kidneys of healthy mice.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that pH maps of the kidney can be imaged in vivo by measuring the pH‐dependent chemical shift of a single water exchange CEST peak without prior knowledge of the agent concentration in vivo. The results demonstrate the potential of using a simple frequency‐dependent paraCEST agent for mapping tissue pH in vivo. Magn Reson Med 75:2432–2441, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Reproducibility of electromyographic and mechanical parameters of the triceps surae during submaximal and maximal plantar flexions
Authors: Stutzig Norman , Siebert Tobias
Published: July 2015

Introduction: Neuromuscular parameters must be reproducible to examine neuromuscular adaptations in interventional and clinical studies. The reproducibility of neuromuscular parameters for the soleus (SOL), lateral gastrocnemius (LG), and medial gastrocnemius (MG) was assessed over a period of 2 weeks. Methods: Thirteen subjects (27.4 years, 69.5 kg) were tested for numerous electromyographic (e.g., voluntary and electrical evoked EMG) and mechanical (e.g., voluntary activation level) parameters in 3 test sessions. Results: The majority of the data (28 of 34) revealed moderate and substantial reproducibility. Hmax20%/Mmax20% and Vsup/Msup were less reproducible in LG than in MG and SOL. Muscle activity and M‐waves did not differ between muscles. The ICC for the mechanical data was >0.79. Conclusions: The H‐reflex during voluntary contraction of the LG should be considered with caution. Mechanical data on muscle activation level are reproducible. The reproducibility of neuromuscular parameters is sufficient for interventional studies. Muscle Nerve 53: 464–470, 2016