bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
WS2 Nanowires as a High‐Performance Anode for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Yongchang , Zhang Ning , Kang Hongyan , Shang Minghui , Jiao Lifang , Chen Jun
Published: June 2015

We report the synthesis and anode application for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) of WS2 nanowires (WS2 NWs). WS2 NWs with very thin diameter of ≈25 nm and expanded interlayer spacing of 0.83 nm were prepared by using a facile solvothermal method followed by a heat treatment. The as‐prepared WS2 NWs were evaluated as anode materials of SIBs in two potential windows of 0.01–2.5 V and 0.5–3 V. WS2 NWs displayed a remarkable capacity (605.3 mA h g−1 at 100 mA g−1) but with irreversible conversion reaction in the potential window of 0.01–2.5 V. In comparison, WS2 NWs showed a reversible intercalation mechanism in the potential window of 0.5–3 V, in which the nanowire‐framework is well maintained. In the latter case, the interlayers of WS2 are gradually expanded and exfoliated during repeated charge–discharge cycling. This not only provides more active sites and open channels for the intercalation of Na+ but also facilitates the electronic and ionic diffusion. Therefore, WS2 NWs exhibited an ultra‐long cycle life with high capacity and rate capability in the potential window of 0.5–3 V. This study shows that WS2 NWs are promising as the anode materials of room‐temperature SIBs.
Perfluoroalkyl and ‐aryl Zinc Ate Complexes: Generation, Reactivity, and Synthetic Application
Authors: Wang Xuan , Hirano Keiichi , Kurauchi Daisuke , Kato Hisano , Toriumi Naoyuki , Takita Ryo , Uchiyama Masanobu
Published: June 2015

A combination of dimethylzinc, perfluoroalkyl iodide, and LiCl afforded a new type of perfluoroalkyl (RF) zinc ate complex. These complexes show much greater thermal stability than conventional perfluorinated metal species, such as RF–lithium species and Grignard reagents, and they can be used at room temperature or higher. The results of DFT calculations on the origin of the enhanced stability are reported and the synthetic utility of RF‐zincate complexes is demonstrated.
Utility ofCD54,CD229, andCD319 for the identification of plasma cells in patients with clonal plasma cell diseases
Authors: Pojero Fanny , Flores‐Montero Juan , Sanoja Luzalba , Pérez José Juan , Puig Noemí , Paiva Bruno , Bottcher Sebastian , van Dongen Jacques J. M. , Orfao Alberto ,   on behalf of the EuroFlow group
Published: June 2015

Background

Multiparameter flow cytometry (MFC) identification and characterization of plasma cells (PCs) is a useful tool to support diagnosis, prognostication, and monitoring of PC diseases (PCD). Currently, the number of MFC markers suited for the identification of PC remains limited. Moreover, antibody therapies against PC‐associated markers further compromise the utility of the most widely used reagents (e.g., CD38). Despite markers other than CD38 and CD138 are recognized as potentially useful PC‐identification markers, no study has comparatively evaluated their performance in combination with CD38 and CD138. Here we compared the utility of CD229, CD54, and CD319 for the identification of normal and aberrant PCs.

Methods

Bone marrow (BM) samples from 5 healthy controls, two noninfiltrated nonHodgkin lymphoma cases and 46 PCD patients plus 3 extraosseous plasmocytomas, and normal peripheral blood (PB) specimens, were studied.

Results

Our results showed adequate performance of all three markers once combined with CD38. In contrast, when combined with CD138 for the identification of PC, only CD229 provided a good discrimination between PCs and all other cells for all BM and PB samples analyzed; in contrast, CD54 and CD319 showed limited utility for the identification of PCs, mainly because of significant overlap of the staining for these two markers on PCs and other myeloid cells in the sample.

Conclusions

From the three markers evaluated, CD229 may be considered as the most reliable marker to replace CD38 or CD138 for the identification of PCs in patients undergoing anti‐CD38 or anti‐CD138 therapy, until a better alternative is available. © 2015 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Multiple functions of Maf in the regulation of cellular development and differentiation
Authors: Zhang Chuan , Guo Zhi‐Min
Published: June 2015

Cellular muscular aponeurotic fibrosarcoma (c‐Maf) is a member of the large macrophage‐activating factor family. C‐Maf plays important roles in the morphogenetic processes and cellular differentiation of the lens, kidneys, liver, T cells and nervous system, and it is particularly important in pancreatic islet and erythroblastic island formation. However, the exact role of c‐Maf remains to be elucidated. In this review, we summarize the research to clarify the functions of c‐Maf in the cellular development and differentiation. The expression of c‐Maf is higher in pancreatic duct cells than in pancreatic islet cells. Therefore, we suggest that pancreatic duct cells may be converted to the functional insulin‐secreting cells by regulating c‐Maf. © 2015 National Natural Science Foundation of China. Diabetes/Metabolism Research and Reviews Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
A phytometer study evaluating the effects of stream restoration on riparian vegetation
Authors: Dietrich Anna L. , Nilsson Christer , Jansson Roland
Published: June 2015

Channelization of streams and rivers to facilitate timber floating has cut off riparian zones from the channel, covered them with coarse sediment and resulted in less flooding. Restoration measures aiming to counteract these impacts are expected to create a higher, more natural hydrological variability and enhance site quality for riparian plants. In a long‐term field experiment, we evaluated the effect of flooding regime on riparian plant performance by measuring survival and biomass increment of two transplanted phytometer species, a grass (Molinia caerulea) and a forb (Filipendula ulmaria). We also analysed the number and duration of flooding events in channelized and restored stream and river reaches with an indirect method using diurnal temperature oscillation. We found that flow duration was higher, with significantly more flood events at restored compared with channelized sites in medium‐sized and large watercourses, particularly during the summer months. Phytometer performance was better at restored sites, and it was positively correlated with duration and frequency of summer flooding, indicating that more but less intense floods after restoration improved site conditions for phytometer growth. This may not only result from an increased heterogeneity in channel morphology caused by the return of boulders but can probably also be attributed to a reduced current velocity at restored sites. Flood variables were more often correlated with other abiotic variables at restored than at channelized sites, which points to an increased land–water connectivity as a result of restoration. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Solid‐Phase Friedländer Synthesis Using an Alkoxyamine Linker
Authors: Yamaguchi Kota , Noda Takeshi , Tomizawa Toshiki , Kanai Eriko , Hioki Hideaki
Published: June 2015

A quinoline library was prepared by combinatorial synthesis using an alkoxyamine linker. Substrates were loaded onto a solid support containing an oxime linkage. After selected reactions on the solid support, the products were cleaved by a Friedländer‐type reaction with ketones under acidic conditions to afford the corresponding quinolines. The recyclability of the solid support was also investigated.
Identifying Solid Luminogens through Gold‐Catalysed Intramolecular Hydroarylation of Alkynes
Authors: Shaikh Aslam C. , Shalini S. , Vaidhyanathan Ramanathan , Mane Manoj V. , Barui Ayan Kumar , Patra Chitta Ranjan , Venkatesh Yeduru , Bangal Prakriti Ranjan , Patil Nitin T.
Published: June 2015

The identification of a new class of luminogens based on pyrrolo‐quinoxaline embedded coumarin (PQC) structures is reported. The reaction relies on the gold‐catalyzed hydroarylation reaction of appropriately substituted aryl alkynoates that produces molecules that exhibit solvatochromism and aggregation‐induced emission enhancement (AIEE) phenomena. The application of PQCs for live cell imaging has also been demonstrated.
Electrochemical Determination of D‐Glucose Using Nortropine‐N‐oxyl under Physiological Conditions
Authors: Sato Katsuhiko , Ono Tetsuya , Yoshida Kentaro , Ito Toshinori , Kashiwagi Yoshitomo
Published: June 2015

Nortropine‐N‐oxyl (NNO) was synthesized in a single step from nortropine. The electrocatalytical activity of NNO was evaluated by cyclic voltammetry in pH7.0 phosphate buffer solution. The anodic peak current for ethanol, isopropanol and glucose was enhanced, showing these alcohols were oxidized by electrocatalytic effect of NNO. On the other hand, TEMPO derivative (4‐hydroxy‐2,2,6,6,‐terramethylpiperidine N‐oxyl free radical) could not oxidize the alcohols under the same condition. The electrochemical response of the NNO to glucose was investigated. The anodic peak current increased with an increase in the concentration of glucose. A linear response to the glucose concentration ranging from 0.1 to 10 mM was obtained.
Bioconcentration and depuration of 14C-labeled 17α-ethinyl estradiol and 4-nonylphenol in individual organs of the marine bivalve Mytilus edulis L.
Authors: Ricciardi Karen L. , Poynton Helen C. , Duphily Brian J. , Blalock Bonnie J. , Robinson William E.
Published: June 2015

Endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs), including 17α-ethinyl estradiol (EE2) and 4-nonylphenol (4-NP), enter coastal environments primarily in effluents of wastewater treatment facilities and have become ubiquitous in marine surface waters, sediments, and biota. Although EE2 and 4-NP have been detected in marine shellfish, the kinetics of bioconcentration and their tissue distribution have not been thoroughly investigated. The authors performed bioconcentration and depuration experiments in the blue mussel, Mytilus edulis, with 3.37 nM EE2 (0.999 μg/L) and 454 nM 4-NP (100.138 µg/L). Mussels and seawater were sampled throughout a 38-d exposure and a 35-d depuration period, and 6 tissues were individually assayed. Uptake of EE2 and 4-NP was curvilinear throughout exposure and followed a similar uptake pattern: digestive gland > gill ≥ remaining viscera > gonad > adductor > plasma. Depuration varied, however, with half-lives ranging from 2.7 d (plasma) to 92 d (gill) for EE2 and 15 d (plasma) to 57 d (gill) for 4-NP. An innovative modeling approach, with 3 coupled mathematical models, was developed to differentiate the unique roles of the gill and plasma in distributing the EDCs to internal tissues. Plasma appears pivotal in regulating EDC uptake and depuration within the whole mussel. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:863–873. © 2015 SETAC
Development and validation of an in-house quantitative analysis method for cylindrospermopsin using hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry: Quantification demonstrated in 4 aquatic organisms
Authors: Esterhuizen-Londt Maranda , Kühn Sandra , Pflugmacher Stephan
Published: June 2015

The cyanobacterial toxin cylindrospermopsin (CYN) is of great concern in aquatic environments because of its incidence, multiple toxicity endpoints, and, therefore, the severity of health implications. It may bioaccumulate in aquatic food webs, resulting in high exposure concentrations to higher-order trophic levels, particularly humans. Because of accumulation at primary levels resulting from exposure to trace amounts of toxin, a sensitive analytical technique with proven aquatic applications is required. In the present study, a hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatographic–tandem mass spectrometric method with a lower limit of detection of 200 fg on column (signal-to-noise ratio = 3, n = 9) and a lower limit of quantification of 1 pg on column (signal-to-noise ratio = 11, n = 9) with demonstrated application in 4 aquatic organisms is described. The analytical method was optimized and validated with a linear range (r2 = 0.999) from 0.1 ng mL–1 to 100 ng mL–1 CYN. Mean recovery of the extraction method was 98 ± 2%. Application of the method was demonstrated by quantifying CYN uptake in Scenedesmus subspicatus (green algae), Egeria densa (Brazilian waterweed), Daphnia magna (water flea), and Lumbriculus variegatus (blackworm) after 24 h of static exposure to 50 μg L–1 CYN. Uptake ranged from 0.05% to 0.11% of the nominal CYN exposure amount. This constitutes a sensitive and reproducible method for extraction and quantification of unconjugated CYN with demonstrated application in 4 aquatic organisms, which can be used in further aquatic toxicological investigations. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015;34:2878–2883. © 2015 SETAC
„Wie du mir, so ich dir”︁
Authors: Ockenfels Axel
Published: June 2015

Ob im Internethandel, in betrieblichen Boni‐Systemen oder bei multilateralen Verhandlungen — „Reziprozität”︁ kann ein Schlüssel zum Erfolg sein. Die Verhaltensökonomie will mit experimentellen Methoden und spieltheoretischen Modellen das Prinzip gezielt nutzbar machen.
Im Zeichen der Miniaturisierung
Authors: Ostendorf Andreas , König Karsten
Published: June 2015

Nanostrukturierung und Lasertechnologie: Mit ultrakurzen Pulsen lassen sich winzig kleine Strukturen einfacher und kostengünstiger herstellen. Das ermöglicht vielversprechende Anwendungen in Mikroelektronik und Biomedizin.
PKC412 normalizes mutation‐related keratin filament disruption and hepatic injury in mice by promoting keratin–myosin binding
Authors: Kwan Raymond , Chen Lu , Looi Koksun , Tao Guo‐Zhong , Weerasinghe Sujith V. , Snider Natasha T. , Conti Mary Anne , Adelstein Robert S. , Xie Qing , Omary M. Bishr
Published: June 2015

Keratins, among other cytoskeletal intermediate filament proteins, are mutated at a highly conserved arginine with consequent severe disease phenotypes due to disruption of keratin filament organization. We screened a kinase inhibitor library, using A549 cells that are transduced with a lentivirus keratin 18 (K18) construct, to identify compounds that normalize filament disruption due to K18 Arg90Cys mutation at the conserved arginine. High‐throughput screening showed that PKC412, a multikinase inhibitor, ameliorated K18 Arg90Cys‐mediated keratin filament disruption in cells and in the livers of previously described transgenic mice that overexpress K18 Arg90Cys. Furthermore, PKC412 protected cultured A549 cells that express mutant or wild‐type K18 and mouse livers of the K18 Arg90Cys‐overexpressing transgenic mice from Fas‐induced apoptosis. Proteomic analysis of proteins that associated with keratins after exposure of K18‐expressing A549 cells to PKC412 showed that nonmuscle myosin heavy chain‐IIA (NMHC‐IIA) partitions with the keratin fraction. The nonmuscle myosin‐IIA (NM‐IIA) association with keratins was confirmed by immune staining and by coimmunoprecipitation. The keratin–myosin association is myosin dephosphorylation–dependent; occurs with K8, the obligate K18 partner; is enhanced by PKC412 in cells and mouse liver; and is blocked by hyperphosphorylation conditions in cultured cells and mouse liver. Furthermore, NMHC‐IIA knockdown inhibits PKC412‐mediated normalization of K18 R90C filaments. Conclusion: The inhibitor PKC412 normalizes K18 Arg90Cys mutation‐induced filament disruption and disorganization by enhancing keratin association with NM‐IIA in a myosin dephosphorylation–regulated manner. Targeting of intermediate filament disorganization by compounds that alter keratin interaction with their associated proteins offers a potential novel therapeutic approach for keratin and possibly other intermediate filament protein–associated diseases.(Hepatology 2015;62:1858–1869)
Histone Deacetylase Inhibition Impairs Normal Intestinal Cell Proliferation and Promotes Specific Gene Expression
Authors: Roostaee Alireza , Guezguez Amel , Beauséjour Marco , Simoneau Aline , Vachon Pierre H. , Levy Emile , Beaulieu Jean‐François
Published: June 2015

Mechanisms that maintain proliferation and delay cell differentiation in the intestinal crypt are not yet fully understood. We have previously shown the implication of histone methylation in the regulation of enterocytic differentiation. In this study, we investigated the role of histone deacetylation as an important epigenetic mechanism that controls proliferation and differentiation of intestinal cells using the histone deacetylase inhibitor suberanilohydroxamic acid (SAHA) on the proliferation and differentiation of human and mouse intestinal cells. Treatment of newly confluent Caco‐2/15 cells with SAHA resulted in growth arrest, increased histone acetylation and up‐regulation of the expression of intestine‐specific genes such as those encoding sucrase‐isomaltase, villin and the ion exchanger SLC26A3. Although SAHA has been recently used in clinical trials for cancer treatment, its effect on normal intestinal cells has not been documented. Analyses of small and large intestines of mice treated with SAHA revealed a repression of crypt cell proliferation and a higher expression of sucrase‐isomaltase in both segments compared to control mice. Expression of SLC26A3 was also significantly up‐regulated in the colons of mice after SAHA administration. Finally, SAHA was also found to strongly inhibit normal human intestinal crypt cell proliferation in vitro. These results demonstrate the important implication of epigenetic mechanisms such as histone acetylation/deacetylation in the regulation of normal intestinal cell fate and proliferation. J. Cell. Biochem. 116: 2695–2708, 2015. © 2015 The Authors. Journal of Cellular Biochemistry published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Alterations in Skeletal Muscle Oxidative Phenotype in Mice Exposed to 3 Weeks of Normobaric Hypoxia
Authors: Slot Ilse G.M. , Schols Annemie M.W.J. , de Theije Chiel C. , Snepvangers Frank J.M. , Gosker Harry R.
Published: June 2015

Skeletal muscle of patients with chronic respiratory failure is prone to loss of muscle mass and oxidative phenotype. Tissue hypoxia has been associated with cachexia and emphysema in humans. Experimental research on the role of hypoxia in loss of muscle oxidative phenotype, however, has yielded inconsistent results. Animal studies are frequently performed in young animals, which may hinder translation to generally older aged patients. Therefore, in this study, we tested the hypothesis that hypoxia induces loss of skeletal muscle oxidative phenotype in a model of aged (52 weeks) mice exposed to 3 weeks of hypoxia. Additional groups of young (4 weeks) and adult (12 weeks) mice were included to examine age effects. To verify hypoxia‐induced cachexia, fat pad and muscle weights as well as muscle fiber cross‐sectional areas were determined. Muscle oxidative phenotype was assessed by expression and activity of markers of mitochondrial metabolism and fiber‐type distribution. A profound loss of muscle and fat was indeed accompanied by a slightly lower expression of markers of muscle oxidative capacity in the aged hypoxic mice. In contrast, hypoxia‐associated changes of fiber‐type composition were more prominent in the young mice. The differential response of the muscle of young, adult, and aged mice to hypoxia suggests that age matters and that the aged mouse is a better model for translation of findings to elderly patients with chronic respiratory disease. Furthermore, the findings warrant further mechanistic research into putative accelerating effects of hypoxia‐induced loss of oxidative phenotype on the cachexia process in chronic respiratory disease. J. Cell. Physiol. 231: 377–392, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Potential Role of Glycogen Synthase Kinase‐3β in Regulation of Myocardin Activity in Human Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Zhou Yi‐Xia , Shi Zhan , Singh Pavneet , Yin Hao , Yu Yan‐ni , Li Long , Walsh Michael P. , Gui Yu , Zheng Xi‐Long
Published: June 2015

Glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)‐3β, a serine/threonine kinase with an inhibitory role in glycogen synthesis in hepatocytes and skeletal muscle, is also expressed in cardiac and smooth muscles. Inhibition of GSK‐3β results in cardiac hypertrophy through reducing phosphorylation and increasing transcriptional activity of myocardin, a transcriptional co‐activator for serum response factor. Myocardin plays critical roles in differentiation of smooth muscle cells (SMCs). This study, therefore, aimed to examine whether and how inhibition of GSK‐3β regulates myocardin activity in human vascular SMCs. Treatment of SMCs with the GSK‐3β inhibitors AR‐A014418 and TWS 119 significantly reduced endogenous myocardin activity, as indicated by lower expression of myocardin target genes (and gene products), CNN1 (calponin), TAGLN1 (SM22), and ACTA2 (SM α‐actin). In human SMCs overexpressing myocardin through the T‐REx system, treatment with either GSK‐3β inhibitor also inhibited the expression of CNN1, TAGLN1, and ACTA2. These effects of GSK‐3β inhibitors were mimicked by transfection with GSK‐3β siRNA. Notably, both AR‐A014418 and TWS 119 decreased the serine/threonine phosphorylation of myocardin. The chromatin immunoprecipitation assay showed that AR‐A014418 treatment reduced myocardin occupancy of the promoter of the myocardin target gene ACTA2. Overexpression of a dominant‐negative GSK‐3β mutant in myocardin‐overexpressing SMCs reduced the expression of calponin, SM22, and SM α‐actin. As expected, overexpression of constitutively active or wild‐type GSK‐3β in SMCs without myocardin overexpression increased expression of these proteins. In summary, our results indicate that inhibition of GSK‐3β reduces myocardin transcriptional activity, suggesting a role for GSK‐3β in myocardin transcriptional activity and smooth muscle differentiation. J. Cell. Physiol. 231: 393–402, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Trends in hospital deaths among human immunodeficiency virus–infected patients during the antiretroviral therapy era, 1995 to 2011
Authors: Cowell Annie , Shenoi Sheela V. , Kyriakides Tassos C. , Friedland Gerald , Barakat Lydia Aoun
Published: June 2015

OBJECTIVE

Mortality in hospitalized human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐infected patients is not well described. We sought to characterize in‐hospital deaths among HIV‐infected patients in the antiretroviral (ART) era and identify factors associated with mortality.

METHODS

We reviewed the medical records of hospitalized HIV‐infected patients who died from January 1, 1995 to December 31, 2011 at an urban teaching hospital. We evaluated trends in early and late ART use and deaths due to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and non‐AIDS, and identified clinical and demographic correlates of non‐AIDS deaths.

RESULTS

In‐hospital deaths declined significantly from 1995 to 2011 (P < 0.0001); those attributable to non‐AIDS increased (43% to 70.5%, P < 0.0001). Non‐AIDS deaths were most commonly caused by non‐AIDS infection (20.3%), cardiovascular (11.3%) and liver disease (8.5%), and non‐AIDS malignancy (7.8%). Patients with non‐AIDS compared to AIDS‐related deaths were older (median age 48 vs 40 years, P < 0.0001), more likely to be on ART (74.1% vs 55.8%, P = 0.0001), less likely to have a CD4 count of <200 cells/mm3 (47.2% vs 97.1%, P < 0.0001), and more likely to have an HIV viral load of ≤400 copies/mL (38.1% vs 4.1%, P < 0.0001). Non‐AIDS deaths were associated with 4.5 and 4.2 times greater likelihood of comorbid underlying liver and cardiovascular disease, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Non‐AIDS deaths increased significantly during the ART era and are now the most common cause of in‐hospital deaths; non‐AIDS infection, cardiovascular and liver disease, and malignancies were major contributors to mortality. Higher CD4 cell count, liver, and cardiovascular comorbidities were most strongly associated with non‐AIDS deaths. Interventions targeting non–AIDS‐associated conditions are needed to reduce inpatient mortality among HIV‐infected patients. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2015;10:608–614. © 2015 Society of Hospital Medicine
SCAMPs: A new tool for an old problem
Authors: Rathod Rahul H.
Published: June 2015

Standardized Clinical Assessment and Management Plans (SCAMPs) are tools to facilitate learning and discovery in a rapid iterative fashion. SCAMPs aim to reduce practice variation, improve patient outcomes, and identify unnecessary resource utilization. They are a quality improvement initiative that captures targeted data about clinical decision making. These data are then analyzed to change and improve the SCAMP algorithm itself. The purpose of this article is to describe the general SCAMPs methodology and to compare SCAMPs to traditional tools like clinical practice guidelines. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2015;10:633–636. © 2015 Society of Hospital Medicine
High performance of combined HPV testing and genotyping for HPV16/18/52/58 in triaging women with minor cervical cytological abnormalities in northern Thailand
Authors: Khunamornpong Surapan , Settakorn Jongkolnee , Sukpan Kornkanok , Srisomboon Jatupol , Intaraphet Suthida , Siriaunkgul Sumalee
Published: June 2015

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is an important cause of cervical cancer. Screening with cytology or combined cytology and HPV testing helps to detect early cervical cancers and precancerous lesions (high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion or worse [HSIL+]). Minor cytological abnormalities (atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance and low‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion) account for the majority of abnormal cervical cytology results, but only 10–20% of women with minor cytological abnormalities have histologic HSIL+. Triage tests are useful to identify the high‐risk patients and reduce the colposcopy burden. This study was aimed to evaluate the triage performance of combined HPV DNA testing and genotyping. Cervical samples from women with minor cytological abnormalities, who underwent colposcopy at Chiang Mai University Hospital in northern Thailand between October 2010 and February 2014, were tested for HPV DNA using Hybrid Capture 2 (HC2). Genotyping was performed using Linear Array assay. Of 223 women with cervical histology confirmation, histologic HSIL+ was detected in 25 women (11.2%). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of 3 triage methods for histologic HSIL+ were; 100%, 47.5%, 19.4%, and 100% by HC2 only; 40.0%, 88.4%, 30.3%, and 92.1% by combined HC2 and genotypes HPV16/18; and 96.0%, 75.8%, 33.3%, and 99.3% by combined HC2 and genotypes HPV16/18/52/58. Triage using combined HC2 and genotypes HPV16/18/52/58 showed significantly greater area under the receiver operating curve than the other 2 methods (P < 0.001). Combined HPV DNA testing and genotyping for HPV16/18/52/58 is useful for triaging women with minor cervical cytological abnormalities in northern Thailand. J. Med. Virol. 88:135–143, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Giant two‐photon absorption in monolayer MoS2
Authors: Li Yuanxin , Dong Ningning , Zhang Saifeng , Zhang Xiaoyan , Feng Yanyan , Wang Kangpeng , Zhang Long , Wang Jun
Published: June 2015

Strong two‐photon absorption (TPA) in monolayer MoS2 is demonstrated in contrast to saturable absorption (SA) in multilayer MoS2 under the excitation of femtosecond laser pulses in the near‐infrared region. MoS2 in the forms of monolayer single crystal and multilayer triangular islands are grown on either quartz or SiO2/Si by employing the seeding method through chemical vapor deposition. The nonlinear transmission measurements reveal that monolayer MoS2 possesses a nonsaturation TPA coefficient as high as ∼(7.62 ±0.15) ×103 cm/GW, larger than that of conventional semiconductors by a factor of 103. As a result of TPA, two‐photon pumped frequency upconverted luminescence is observed directly in the monolayer MoS2. For the multilayer MoS2, the SA response is demonstrated with the ratio of the excited‐state absorption cross section to ground‐state cross section of ∼0.18. In addition, the laser damage threshold of the monolayer MoS2 is ∼97 GW/cm2, larger than that of the multilayer MoS2 of ∼78 GW/cm2.

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Uncovering the molecular pathogenesis of congenital hyperinsulinism by panel gene sequencing in 32 Chinese patients
Authors: Fan Zi‐chuan , Ni Jin‐wen , Yang Lin , Hu Li‐yuan , Ma Si‐min , Mei Mei , Sun Bi‐jun , Wang Hui‐jun , Zhou Wen‐hao
Published: June 2015

Congenital hyperinsulinism (CHI) has been mostly associated with mutations in seven major genes. We retrospectively reviewed a cohort of 32 patients with CHI. Extensive mutational analysis (ABCC8, KCNJ11, GCK, GLUD1, HADH, HNF4A, and UCP2) was performed on Ion torrent platform, which could analyze hundreds of genes simultaneously with ultrahigh‐multiplex PCR using up to 6144 primer pairs in a single primer pool and address time‐sensitive samples with single‐day assays, from samples to annotated variants, to identify the genetic etiology of this disease. Thirty‐seven sequence changes were identified, including in ABCC8/KCNJ11 (n = 25, 65.7%), GCK (n = 2), HNF4A (n = 3), GLUD1 (n = 2), HADH (n = 4), and UCP2 (n = 1); these mutations included 14 disease‐causing mutations, eight rare SNPs, 14 common SNPs, and one novel mutation. Mutations were identified in 21 of 32 patients (65.6%). Among the patients with an identified mutation, 14 had mutations in ABCC8, one of which was combined with a GLUD1 mutation. Four patients had mutations in KCNJ11, 1 had a GCK mutation, 1 had a mutation in HADH, and two had a mutation in HNF4A. Among the 32 patients, the age at the onset of hyperinsulinemia ranged from the neonatal period to 1 year of age; five patients underwent a pancreatectomy due to intractable hyperinsulinemia. This study describes novel and previously identified mutations in patients with CHI. The spectrum of mutations in CHI patients represents an important tool for the diagnosis and prognosis of CHI patients in the Chinese population as well as for the genetic counseling of CHI families.
Preparation, characterization, and oxygen scavenging capacity of biodegradable α‐tocopherol/PLA microparticles for active food packaging applications
Authors: Scarfato Paola , Avallone Elvira , Galdi Maria Rosaria , Di Maio Luciano , Incarnato Loredana
Published: June 2015

In this work, a biodegradable oxygen scavenger system, which consists of α‐tocopherol‐loaded poly(lactic)acid microparticles containing 40 wt% of the natural antioxidant agent, was prepared by an oil in water (O/W) emulsion‐solvent evaporation method. The preparation procedure assured high encapsulation efficiency and production yield and gives no noticeable alteration of the molecular structure of the microencapsulated active α‐tocopherol, as demonstrated by Fourier‐transform infrared and thermogravimetric analyses measurements. The produced active microparticles are semicrystalline and are characterized by suitable morphology (size and shape) to have satisfactory flowability to be used as active powder additive in conventional polymer extrusion technologies. Both the scavenging capacity and rate are in line with the values required for an effective oxygen scavenger system. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:981–986, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Morphological analysis of microcellular PP produced in a core‐back injection process using chemical blowing agents and gas counter pressure
Authors: Reglero Ruiz José Antonio , Vincent Michel , Agassant Jean‐François , Claverie Aurore , Huck Sébastien
Published: June 2015

A complete experimental analysis of the microcellular injection process using Chemical Blowing Agents (CBA) with Gas Counter Pressure (GCP) and core‐back expansion is presented. Three different types of polypropylene, neat and charged, were mixed with two different CBAs and injected into a plate mold with varying process parameters. First, an exhaustive cartographical mapping of the plate morphology is analyzed. In a second step, the relation between injection parameters and the resulting morphology is investigated. The results show that injection time affects the cellular structure. The formulation, especially the type of chemical foaming agent, controls the average bubble radius. Compared with classical injection process, the use of CBAs, combined to Gas Counter Pressure and core‐back process, allows obtaining parts with good surface aspect, more homogeneous cellular structures and smaller bubble radius. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 55:2465–2473, 2015. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Random propene/4‐methyl‐1‐pentene copolymers synthesized with C2 symmetric highly isospecific metallocenes
Authors: Sacchi Maria Carmela , Losio Simona , Fantauzzi Luigi , Stagnaro Paola , Utzeri Roberto , Galimberti Maurizio
Published: June 2015

Propene (P)/4‐methyl‐1‐pentene (Y) copolymers in a wide range of composition were prepared with isospecific single center catalysts, rac‐Et(IndH4)2ZrCl2 (EBTHI), rac‐Me2Si(2‐Me‐BenzInd)2ZrCl2 (MBI), and rac‐CH2(3‐tBuInd)2ZrCl2 (TBI). 13C NMR analysis of copolymers and statistical elaboration of microstructural data at triad level were performed. Unprecedented and surprising results are here reported. Random P/Y copolymers were prepared with the most isospecific catalyst, TBI, that is known to prepare ethene/propene and ethene/4‐methyl‐1‐pentene copolymers with long homosequences of both comonomers, whereas longer homosequences of both comonomers were observed in copolymers from the less enantioselective metallocenes EBTHI and MBI. These findings, which are against what is acknowledged in the field, can pave the way for the preparation on a large scale of random propene‐based copolymers. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2015, 53, 2575–2585
Thermoresponsive polymersome from a double hydrophilic block copolymer
Authors: Pramanik Prithankar , Ghosh Suhrit
Published: June 2015

The article describes synthesis and thermally triggered self‐assembly of a Poly (ethylene oxide)‐block‐poly (N‐insopropylacrylamide) (PEO‐b‐PNIPAm) in aqueous medium. At rt, the polymer remains as unimer, however, at lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of PNIPAm (32 °C), it forms a rather large undefined aggregate which at slightly elevated temperature (∼40 °C) converges to well defined polymersome structure (Critical aggregation concentration = 0.45 mg/mL) with hydrodynamic diameter of 40–50 nm. By lowering the temperature, initial swelling of the compact vesicle followed by reversible disassembly to unimer was noticed. The polymersome exhibits encapsulation ability to a hydrophilic dye Calcein which can be spontaneously released by lowering the temperature below cloud point. Likewise a hydrophobic dye namely 8‐Anilino‐1‐naphthalenesulfonic acid (ANS) can also be encapsulated and released by thermal trigger. Detail photoluminescence studies reveal ANS dye can be used as a generalized probe molecule for detecting LCST of a thermoresponsive polymer by “fluorescence on” above LCST even by cursory observation. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2015, 53, 2444–2451
Linking structural features of protein complexes and biological function
Authors: Sowmya Gopichandran , Breen Edmond J. , Ranganathan Shoba
Published: June 2015

Protein–protein interaction (PPI) establishes the central basis for complex cellular networks in a biological cell. Association of proteins with other proteins occurs at varying affinities, yet with a high degree of specificity. PPIs lead to diverse functionality such as catalysis, regulation, signaling, immunity, and inhibition, playing a crucial role in functional genomics. The molecular principle of such interactions is often elusive in nature. Therefore, a comprehensive analysis of known protein complexes from the Protein Data Bank (PDB) is essential for the characterization of structural interface features to determine structure–function relationship. Thus, we analyzed a nonredundant dataset of 278 heterodimer protein complexes, categorized into major functional classes, for distinguishing features. Interestingly, our analysis has identified five key features (interface area, interface polar residue abundance, hydrogen bonds, solvation free energy gain from interface formation, and binding energy) that are discriminatory among the functional classes using Kruskal‐Wallis rank sum test. Significant correlations between these PPI interface features amongst functional categories are also documented. Salt bridges correlate with interface area in regulator‐inhibitors (r = 0.75). These representative features have implications for the prediction of potential function of novel protein complexes. The results provide molecular insights for better understanding of PPIs and their relation to biological functions.
Comparison of intrinsic dynamics of cytochrome p450 proteins using normal mode analysis
Authors: Dorner Mariah E. , McMunn Ryan D. , Bartholow Thomas G. , Calhoon Brecken E. , Conlon Michelle R. , Dulli Jessica M. , Fehling Samuel C. , Fisher Cody R. , Hodgson Shane W. , Keenan Shawn W. , Kruger Alyssa N. , Mabin Justin W. , Mazula Daniel L. , Monte Christopher A. , Olthafer Augustus , Sexton Ashley E. , Soderholm Beatrice R. , Strom Alexander M. , Hati Sanchita
Published: June 2015

Cytochrome P450 enzymes are hemeproteins that catalyze the monooxygenation of a wide‐range of structurally diverse substrates of endogenous and exogenous origin. These heme monooxygenases receive electrons from NADH/NADPH via electron transfer proteins. The cytochrome P450 enzymes, which constitute a diverse superfamily of more than 8,700 proteins, share a common tertiary fold but < 25% sequence identity. Based on their electron transfer protein partner, cytochrome P450 proteins are classified into six broad classes. Traditional methods of protein classification are based on the canonical paradigm that attributes proteins’ function to their three‐dimensional structure, which is determined by their primary structure that is the amino acid sequence. It is increasingly recognized that protein dynamics play an important role in molecular recognition and catalytic activity. As the mobility of a protein is an intrinsic property that is encrypted in its primary structure, we examined if different classes of cytochrome P450 enzymes display any unique patterns of intrinsic mobility. Normal mode analysis was performed to characterize the intrinsic dynamics of five classes of cytochrome P450 proteins. The present study revealed that cytochrome P450 enzymes share a strong dynamic similarity (root mean squared inner product > 55% and Bhattacharyya coefficient > 80%), despite the low sequence identity (< 25%) and sequence similarity (< 50%) across the cytochrome P450 superfamily. Noticeable differences in Cα atom fluctuations of structural elements responsible for substrate binding were noticed. These differences in residue fluctuations might be crucial for substrate selectivity in these enzymes.
Progress in transparent diamond microelectrode arrays
Authors: Granado Talita Conte , Neusser Gregor , Kranz Christine , Filho João Batista Destro , Carabelli Valentina , Carbone Emilio , Pasquarelli Alberto
Published: June 2015

Diamond multi electrode arrays (MEAs) and ultra‐micro electrode array (uMEA) fabricated from boron‐doped nanocrystalline (BNCD) thin‐films, show excellent performances when detecting cell activity in both amperometric and potentiometric applications. Furthermore they are suitable for delivering electrical stimulation to elicit bioelectric events. Results obtained with our previous 9‐channels uMEA for single cells at high spatial resolution, and 16‐channels MEA for multicellular samples, validated the signal quality of diamond MEAs in comparison with competing technologies. The latest progresses are reported in this paper were we describe a new generation of devices with enhanced performances: a 12‐channel uMEA for recordings from a single cell at high spatial resolution, and a 64‐channel MEA to accommodate larger multicellular samples. The technology is based on a 200 μm thin high‐temperature glass with the same thermal expansion coefficient of silicon and a spin‐on seeding method. Preliminary experiments show excellent electrodes activity and a strongly improved transparency.
Study of hydrogen influence and conduction mechanism of amorphous indium tin oxide for heterojunction silicon wafer solar cells
Authors: Huang Mei , Hameiri Ziv , Aberle Armin G. , Mueller Thomas
Published: June 2015

The optoelectrical properties of the indium tin oxide (ITO) films are investigated at low‐power and low‐temperature conditions for heterojunction silicon wafer solar cell applications. ITO films deposited at 100 W in hydrogen‐diluted argon ambient have the best optoelectrical quality, giving transparent and conductive (carrier mobilities in the 50–60 cm2/Vs range) films. X‐ray diffraction analysis shows that the ITO films deposited at 100 W are primarily of amorphous (or quasi‐amorphous) nature, regardless of the deposition conditions. Based on several other characterisation methods, it is found that the high electron mobility achieved by the hydrogenated ITO films is mainly due to the reduction of scattering centres. A few In2O3 samples are prepared at similar deposition conditions to investigate the electrical conduction mechanism of ITO films. Due to the low doping efficiency of tin atoms in amorphous ITO, the main source of the free electron charge carriers are the oxygen vacancies.
Characterization of [123I]FP‐CIT binding to the dopamine transporter in the striatum of tree shrews by quantitative in vitro autoradiography
Authors: Geisler Stefanie , Beindorff Nicola , Cremer Markus , Hoffmann Kerstin , Brenner Winfried , Cumming Paul , Meyer Philipp T. , Langen Karl‐Josef , Fuchs Eberhard , Buchert Ralph
Published: June 2015

Objectives

Aim of this study was to quantify the binding of [123I]FP‐CIT in striatum of healthy tree shrews. [123I]FP‐CIT is widely used in clinical SPECT imaging to reveal nigrostriatal degeneration in aid of the diagnosis of clinically uncertain parkinsonian syndromes. Despite its wide clinical use, the saturation binding parameters of [123I]FP‐CIT for the dopamine transporter (DAT) have not yet been determined in any mammalian brain. Tree shrews are genetically and neuroanatomically more similar to humans than are rodents and might therefore be a valuable animal model for research of neurological disorders involving brain dopamine.

Experimental Design

Quantitative in vitro autoradiography with [123I]FP‐CIT was performed with brains of healthy tree shrews and, for comparison, brains of healthy rats. Dopamine D2/3 receptor autoradiography with [3H]raclopride was also performed.

Principal observations

Saturation analysis revealed high specificity of [123I]FP‐CIT for DAT in the striatum with considerably higher affinity in tree shrews than in rats (KD = 10.3 versus 36.4 nM). The density of DAT binding sites also was higher in tree shrews than in rats (Bmax = 2499 versus 1495 pmol/g wet weight (ww)). [3H]raclopride revealed D2/3 receptors in the tree shrew striatum with about the same density as in rats (Bmax = 78.4 versus 84.1 pmol/g ww), but with slightly lower affinity in tree shrews (KD = 1.27 versus 0.59 nM).

Conlusions

The higher affinity in combination with the higher abundance of DAT binding sites compared to rat striatum predicts substantially higher binding of [123I]FP‐CIT in SPECT studies of living tree shrews. Synapse 69:497–504, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Laparoscopic Approach for Primary Colorectal Cancer Improves Outcome of Patients Undergoing Combined Open Hepatic Resection for Liver Metastases
Authors: Ratti Francesca , Catena Marco , Di Palo Saverio , Staudacher Carlo , Aldrighetti Luca
Published: June 2015

Background

Safety and efficacy of simultaneous resections for patients with colorectal cancer and synchronous liver metastases have been widely reported, while the topic of approach (laparoscopic or open) to hepatic and colorectal resection is still a debated issue. The aim of this study was to assess short‐term outcome of combined resection of left colon or rectum cancer and liver metastases, comparing the results of the primary tumor resection performed by laparoscopic or open approach.

Study design

From January 2004 to March 2014, 106 patients underwent combined resection of colorectal cancer and synchronous liver metastases. Sixty‐nine patients underwent laparoscopic colorectal resection (laparoscopic colorectal surgery, LCS Group), and were compared with 37 patients undergoing colorectal resection by laparotomy (totally open surgery, TOS Group). Hepatic resection was performed by open approach in all the patients.

Results

Groups were comparable in terms of patients and disease characteristics, extent of liver resection, and length of surgery. In LCS Group, blood loss (400 vs. 650 mL, p < 0.001) and rate of intraoperative transfusions (19.3 vs. 47.2 %, p = 0.04) were lower compared to TOS Group. LCS Group was associated with reduced postoperative morbidity (24.6 vs. 44.4 %, p = 0.039), and shorter postoperative median hospital stay (9 vs. 13 days, p < 0.001). LCS and TOS Groups had comparable oncologic radicality in terms of primary tumor lymphadenectomy (median number of removed nodes 19 and 20, respectively, p NS) and rate of R1 colorectal resections (two patients in both Groups). Multivariate analysis revealed significant correlation morbidity with preoperative chemotherapy, blood loss, and approach to primary tumor.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic resection of colorectal cancer in patients undergoing simultaneous open resection of liver metastases is associated with a reduction of blood loss, morbidity, and postoperative hospital stay, without affecting oncologic radicality. Outcome is mainly conditioned by approach to intestinal surgery, rather than the extent of liver resection.
Differential nucleobase protection against 5-fluorouracil toxicity for squamous and columnar cells: implication for tissue function and oncogenesis
Authors: Vanden Heuvel John P. , Thompson Jerry T. , Albrecht Prajakta , Mandetta Donald , Kamerow Harry , Ford John P.
Published: June 2015

Purpose The goal of these studies was to test if local excess of a normal nucleobase substrate prevents the toxicity of protracted 5FU exposure used in human cancer treatment. Methods Messenger RNA expression studies were performed of 5FU activating enzymes in human colon cancer cells lines (CaCo-2, HT-29), primary human gingival cells (HEGP), and normal esophageal and gastric clinical tissue samples. Excess nucleobase was then used in vitro to protect cells from 5FU toxicity. Results Pyrimidine salvage pathways predominate in squamous cells of the gingiva (HEGP) and esophageal tissue. Excess salvage nucleobase uracil but not adenine prevented 5FU toxicity in HEGP cells. Pyrimidine de novo synthesis predominates in columnar Caco-2, HT-29 and gastric tissue. Excess nucleobase adenine but not uracil prevented 5FU toxicity to Caco-2 and HT-29 cells. Conclusion The directed application of the normal nucleobase uracil to the squamous cells of the oral mucosa and palms and soles together with the delivery of the normal nucleobase adenine to the columnar cells of the GI tract may enable the safe delivery of higher 5FU dose intensity. These results also suggest a feature of tissue function where squamous cells grow largely by recycling overlying tissue cell components. Columnar cells use absorbed surface nutrients for de novo growth. A disruption of this tissue function can result in growth derived from an underlying nutrient source. That change would also cause the loss of the region of cell turnover at the tissue surface. Subsequent cell proliferation with limiting nutrient availability could promote oncogenesis in such initiated tissue.