bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heavy Metal Bioaccumulation in Native Plants in Chromite Impacted Sites: A Search for Effective Remediating Plant Species
Authors: Nawab Javed , Khan Sardar , Shah Mohammad Tahir , Gul Nayab , Ali Abid , Khan Kifayatullah , Huang Qing
Published: August 2015

Phytoremediation is an environmentally friendly and economically feasible technique used for reclamation of environment contaminated with toxic heavy metals. The present study was conducted to investigate the levels of heavy metals in chromite mining impacted soil and native plant species using atomic absorption spectrometry. The contaminated soil collected from mine‐impacted sites showed multifold enrichment of heavy metals Cr, Ni, Co, Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, while the pollution load index value was >3. Heavy metal concentrations were significantly (p < 0.01) higher in soil and plant species of chromite impacted sites as compared to the reference site. The high metal concentrations could be due to emission of dust during chromite mining and open dumping of mine wastes. High metal concentrations may cause potential threats to the local community as well as grazing animals (cows, sheep, and goats) of the study area. The plant species like Solanum surattense, Dodonaea viscosa, Rhazya stracta, Calotropis procera, and Artemisia scoparia showed good metal accumulation capacity grown in chromite mining impacted soils and could be used for phytoremediation.
Gain‐of‐function STAT1 mutations impair STAT3 activity in patients with chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis (CMC)
Authors: Zheng Jie , van de Veerdonk Frank L. , Crossland Katherine L. , Smeekens Sanne P. , Chan Chun M. , Al Shehri Tariq , Abinun Mario , Gennery Andrew R. , Mann Jelena , Lendrem Dennis W. , Netea Mihai G. , Rowan Andrew D. , Lilic Desa
Published: August 2015

Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) triggered production of Th‐17 cytokines mediates protective immunity against fungi. Mutations affecting the STAT3/interleukin 17 (IL‐17) pathway cause selective susceptibility to fungal (Candida) infections, a hallmark of chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis (CMC). In patients with autosomal dominant CMC, we and others previously reported defective Th17 responses and underlying gain‐of‐function (GOF) STAT1 mutations, but how this affects STAT3 function leading to decreased IL‐17 is unclear. We also assessed how GOF‐STAT1 mutations affect STAT3 activation, DNA binding, gene expression, cytokine production, and epigenetic modifications. We excluded impaired STAT3 phosphorylation, nuclear translocation, and sequestration of STAT3 into STAT1/STAT3 heterodimers and confirm significantly reduced transcription of STAT3‐inducible genes (RORC/IL‐17/IL‐22/IL‐10/c‐Fos/SOCS3/c‐Myc) as likely underlying mechanism. STAT binding to the high affinity sis‐inducible element was intact but binding to an endogenous STAT3 DNA target was impaired. Reduced STAT3‐dependent gene transcription was reversed by inhibiting STAT1 activation with fludarabine or enhancing histone, but not STAT1 or STAT3 acetylation with histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors trichostatin A or ITF2357. Silencing HDAC1, HDAC2, and HDAC3 indicated a role for HDAC1 and 2. Reduced STAT3‐dependent gene transcription underlies low Th‐17 responses in GOF‐STAT1 CMC, which can be reversed by inhibiting acetylation, offering novel targets for future therapies.
Impact of an innovative inpatient patient navigator program on length of stay and 30‐day readmission
Authors: Kwan Janice L. , Morgan Matthew W. , Stewart Thomas E. , Bell Chaim M.
Published: August 2015

BACKGROUND

The current climate of increasing patient complexity coupled with rising costs have prompted the need for adaptive innovation. There are limited data describing inpatient interventions targeting improvements in both communication and transitional care.

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the patient navigator (PN) program, an innovative inpatient intervention intended to enhance navigation through the complexity of hospital admissions for patients and providers.

INTERVENTION

PNs were dedicated patient‐care facilitators without clinical responsibilities integrated as full members of the inpatient care team responsible for enhancing communication between and among patients and providers.

DESIGN

Observational retrospective cohort study.

PATIENTS

All patients admitted to the general medical service between July 2010 and March 2014.

SETTING

Academic medical center.

MEASUREMENTS

Primary outcomes were hospital length of stay (LOS) and 30‐day readmission rate matched by case mix group, age category, and resource intensity weight.

RESULTS

Our matched cohort included 5628 admissions (4592 patients) exposed and 2213 admissions (1920 patients) not exposed to PNs. Admissions with PNs were 1.3 days (21%) shorter than admission without PNs (6.2 vs 7.5 days, P < 0.001). Thirty‐day readmission rate was not different between the 2 groups (13.1 vs 13.8%, P = 0.48).

CONCLUSION

Implementation of this intervention was associated with a reduction in LOS without an increase in 30‐day readmission. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2015;10:799–803. © 2015 Society of Hospital Medicine
Knockdown of EHF inhibited the proliferation, invasion and tumorigenesis of ovarian cancer cells
Authors: Cheng Zhongping , Guo Jing , Chen Li , Luo Ning , Yang Weihong , Qu Xiaoyan
Published: August 2015

Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecologic malignancy worldwide. ETS homologous factor (EHF), a member of E26 transformation specific (ETS) transcription factors, has been reported overexpressed in ovarian cancer. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the biological function of EHF in ovarian cancer is still unclear. Here, we found that EHF was elevated in ovarian cancer tissues compared with non‐tumorous tissues. Moreover, high EHF expression level was correlated with short survival time of patients with ovarian cancer. Knockdown of EHF in ovarian cancer cells, SKOV3 and OVCAR3, significantly inhibited cell proliferation and increased cells population in G1 phase. The proteins promoting cell cycles (Cyclin B1, Cyclin D1, and PCNA) were down‐regulated and the protein negatively regulating cell cycle progression (P21) was up‐regulated after EHF knockdown. Moreover, inhibition of EHF in ovarian cancer cells dramatically induced cell apoptosis, but impaired cell adhesion and cell invasion. Furthermore, phosphorylation levels of ERK and AKT were notably reduced in EHF knockdown cells. Finally, in vivo data showed that knockdown of EHF inhibited tumor growth in nude mice. Our data indicates that EHF could be a potential prognosis marker for ovarian cancer and work as an oncogene by targeting ERK and AKT signaling, which can serve as a new target for ovarian cancer treatment. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evaluation of genetic association of neurodevelopment and neuroimmunological genes with antipsychotic treatment response in schizophrenia in Indian populations
Authors: Jajodia Ajay , Kaur Harpreet , Kumari Kalpana , Kanojia Neha , Gupta Meenal , Baghel Ruchi , Sood Mamta , Jain Sanjeev , Chadda Rakesh K. , Kukreti Ritushree
Published: August 2015

Neurodevelopmental and neuroimmunological genes critically regulate antipsychotic treatment outcome. We report genetic associations of antipsychotic response in 742 schizophrenia patients from Indian populations of Indo‐European and Dravidian ancestry, segregated by disease severity. Meta‐analysis comparing the two populations identified CCL2 [rs4795893: OR (95% CI) = 1.79 (1.27–2.52), P = 7.62 × 10−4; rs4586: OR (95% CI) = 1.74 (1.24–2.43), P = 1.13 × 10−3] and GRIA4 [rs2513265: OR (95% CI) = 0.53 (0.36–0.78), P = 1.44 × 10−3] in low severity group; and, ADCY2 [rs1544938: OR (95% CI) = 0.36 (0.19–0.65), P = 7.68 × 10−4] and NRG1 [rs13250975, OR (95% CI) = 0.42 (0.23–0.79), P = 6.81 × 10−3; rs17716295, OR (95% CI) = 1.78 (1.15–2.75), P = 8.71 × 10−3] in high severity group, with incomplete response toward antipsychotics. To our knowledge, this is the first study to identify genetic polymorphisms associated with the efficacy of antipsychotic treatment of schizophrenia patients from two major India populations.
A simpler load‐balancing algorithm for range‐partitioned data in peer‐to‐peer systems
Authors: Chawachat Jakarin , Fakcharoenphol Jittat
Published: August 2015

Random hashing is a standard method to balance loads among nodes in Peer‐to‐Peer networks. However, hashing destroys locality properties of object keys, the critical properties to many applications, more specifically, those that require range searching. To preserve a key order while keeping loads balanced, Ganesan, Bawa, and Garcia‐Molina proposed a load‐balancing algorithm that supports both object's key insertion and deletion with a guaranteed max–min load ratio, the imbalance ratio, of 4.237 using constant amortized costs. Nonetheless, the algorithm is not straightforward to implement in real networks because of its recursiveness. The algorithm mostly uses local operations with global max–min load information. In this work, we present a simple nonrecursive algorithm using essentially the same primitive operations as in Ganesan et al.'s work. For insertions and deletions, our algorithm guarantees a proven constant imbalance ratio of 7.464 with constant amortized costs. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 66(3), 235–249 2015
MicroRNA regulation of viral immunity, latency, and carcinogenesis of selected tumor viruses and HIV
Authors: Wang Ling , Li Guangyu , Yao Zhi Q. , Moorman Jonathan P. , Ning Shunbin
Published: August 2015

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) function as key regulators in immune responses and cancer development. In the contexts of infection with oncogenic viruses, miRNAs are engaged in viral persistence, latency establishment and maintenance, and oncogenesis. In this review, we summarize the potential roles and mechanisms of viral and cellular miRNAs in the host–pathogen interactions during infection with selected tumor viruses and HIV, which include (i) repressing viral replication and facilitating latency establishment by targeting viral transcripts, (ii) evading innate and adaptive immune responses via toll‐like receptors, RIG‐I‐like receptors, T‐cell receptor, and B‐cell receptor pathways by targeting signaling molecules such as TRAF6, IRAK1, IKKε, and MyD88, as well as downstream targets including regulatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor α, interferon γ, interleukin 10, and transforming growth factor β, (iii) antagonizing intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis pathways by targeting pro‐apoptotic or anti‐apoptotic gene transcripts such as the Bcl‐2 family and caspase‐3, (iv) modulating cell proliferation and survival through regulation of the Wnt, PI3K/Akt, Erk/MAPK, and Jak/STAT signaling pathways, as well as the signaling pathways triggered by viral oncoproteins such as Epstein–Barr Virus LMP1, by targeting Wnt‐inhibiting factor 1, SHIP, pTEN, and SOCSs, and (v) regulating cell cycle progression by targeting cell cycle inhibitors such as p21/WAF1 and p27/KIP1. Further elucidation of the interaction between miRNAs and these key biological events will facilitate our understanding of the pathogenesis of viral latency and oncogenesis and may lead to the identification of miRNAs as novel targets for developing new therapeutic or preventive interventions. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NMR structural characterization of the N‐terminal active domain of the gyrase B subunit fromPseudomonas aeruginosa and its complex with an inhibitor
Authors: Li Yan , Wong Yun Xuan , Poh Zhi Ying , Wong Ying Lei , Lee Michelle Yueqi , Ng Hui Qi , Liu Boping , Hung Alvin W. , Cherian Joseph , Hill Jeffrey , Keller Thomas H. , Kang CongBao
Published: August 2015

The N‐terminal ATP binding domain of the DNA gyrase B subunit is a validated drug target for antibacterial drug discovery. Structural information for this domain (pGyrB) fromPseudomonas aeruginosa is still missing. In this study, the interaction between pGyrB and abis‐pyridylurea inhibitor was characterized using several biophysical methods. We further carried out structural analysis of pGyrB using NMR spectroscopy. The secondary structures of free and inhibitor bound pGyrB were obtained based on backbone chemical shift assignment. Chemical shift perturbation and NOE experiments demonstrated that the inhibitor binds to the ATP binding pocket. The results of this study will be helpful for drug development targetingP. aeruginosa.
Short term exendin‐4 treatment reduces markers of metabolic disorders in female offspring of obese rat dams
Authors: Chan Yik Lung , Saad Sonia , Simar David , Oliver Brian , McGrath Kristine , van Reyk David , Bertrand Paul P , Gorrie Cathy , Pollock Carol , Chen Hui
Published: August 2015

Objectives

Maternal obesity imposes significant health risks in the offspring including diabetes and dyslipidemia. We previously showed that the hypoglycaemic agent exendin‐4 (Ex‐4) administered from weaning can reverse the maternal impact of ‘transmitted disorders’ in such offspring. However daily injection for six‐weeks was required and the beneficial effect may lapse upon drug withdrawal. This study aimed to investigate whether short term Ex‐4 treatment during suckling period in a rodent model can reverse transmitted metabolic disorders due to maternal obesity.

Methods

Maternal obesity was induced in female Sprague Dawley rats by high‐fat diet feeding for 6 weeks, throughout gestation and lactation. Female offspring were treated with Ex‐4 (5 μg/kg/day) between postnatal day (P) 4 and 14. Female offspring were harvested at weaning (P20). Lipid and glucose metabolic markers were measured in the liver and fat. Appetite regulators were measured in the plasma and hypothalamus.

Results

Maternal obesity significantly increased body weight, fat mass, and liver weight in the offspring. There was an associated inhibition of peroxisomal proliferator activated receptor gamma coactivator 1α (PGC1α), increased fatty acid synthase (FASN) expression in the liver, and reduced adipocyte triglyceride lipase (ATGL) expression. It also increased the plasma gut hormone ghrelin and reduced glucagon‐like peptide‐1. Ex‐4 treatment partially reversed the maternal impact on adiposity and impaired lipid metabolism in the offspring, with increased liver PGC1α and inhibition of FASN mRNA expression. Ex‐4 treatment also increased the expression of a novel fat depletion gene a2‐zinc‐glycoprotein 1 in the fat tissue.

Conclusion

Short term Ex‐4 treatment during the suckling period significantly improved the metabolic profile in the offspring from the obese mothers at weaning. Long‐term studies are needed to follow such offspring to adulthood to examine the sustained effects of Ex‐4 in preventing the development of metabolic disease.
Networks, trust and capital mobilisation: challenges of embedded local entrepreneurial strategies in Ghana's oil and gas industry
Authors: Ablo Austin Dziwornu , Overå Ragnhild
Published: August 2015

In December 2010 Ghana pumped its first oil and a local content law was passed in 2013 to promote local participation in the oil and gas industry. This paper examines Ghanaian entrepreneurial activities and the dynamics of local participation in the emerging oil and gas sector. We explore Ghanaian entrepreneurs' strategies of mobilising networks to acquire information, build trust, raise financial capital and reduce risk with the aim to gain entry, win contracts and participate in the oil and gas industry. We argue that the resources and strategies activated by entrepreneurs embedded in the context of the Ghanaian business environment are inadequate and problematic when deployed in the context of the international oil and gas industry. The international oil companies' cost-intensive standard requirements and state officials' informal interventions further limit local firms' prospects for participation in the oil and gas industry.
Lower Oral Doses of Micellized α-Tocopherol Compared to α-Tocopheryl Acetate in Feed Modify Fatty Acid Profiles and Improve Oxidative Status in Pigs
Authors: Rey Ana , Amazan Daniel , Cordero Gustavo , Olivares Alvaro , López-Bote Clemente J.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. This study evaluated the effect of vitamin E supplementation source, and the dose given to sows or piglets, on the fatty acid profile of colostrum, milk, subcutaneous and intramuscular fat, and the oxidative status of piglets at 39 days of age. Sows (n = 10) were given 150 mg dl-α-tocopheryl acetate/d in feed, or 75 or 50 mg micellized-d-α-tocopherol/d in water from Day 103 of pregnancy. Weaning piglets from each group of sows (n = 7) received 3.33 mg dl-α-tocopheryl acetate/d in feed, or 1.7 mg micellized-d-α-tocopherol/d or 1.1 mg micellized-d-α-tocopherol/d in water for 14 days. Colostrum from sows supplemented with micellized-d-α-tocopherol had a lower proportion of C20:0 (P = 0.02), C18:4 n-3 (P = 0.03) and a higher C18:1 n-9 to C18:0 ratio than those given dl-α-tocopheryl acetate. Supplementation with micellized-d-α-tocopherol decreased the C18:0 proportion (P = 0.04) and the C18:1 n-9 to C18:0 ratio (P = 0.03) in milk, whereas the C18:1 n-7 proportion increased (P = 0.03) compared to dl-α-tocopheryl acetate. Composition was affected by the d-α-tocopherol dose. A similar trend to that observed in milk was observed in fatty acid composition in piglet fat. Piglets supplemented with micellized-d-α-tocopherol at low doses did not have different ferric reducing antioxidant power in muscle tissues (P = 0.31) than when they were supplemented with dl-α-tocopheryl acetate. Piglets given 1.7 mg micellized-d-α-tocopherol/d had lower oxidized glutathione than those given 1.1 mg/d (P = 0.0055). In conclusion, oral supplementation of sows (75 mg/d) and piglets (1.7 mg/d) with micellized natural vitamin E modified the fatty acid profile of piglet tissues and improved their oxidative status.
Demonstrating Nutrient Cost Gradients: A Brooklyn Case Study
Authors: Karp Robert J. , Wong Gary , Orsi Marguerite
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Introduction: Foods dense in micronutrients are generally more expensive than those with higher energy content. These cost-differentials may put low-income families at risk of diminished micronutrient intake. Objectives: We sought to determine differences in the cost for iron, folate, and choline in foods available for purchase in a low-income community when assessed for energy content and serving size. Methods: Sixty-nine foods listed in the menu plans provided by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for low-income families were considered, in 10 domains. The cost and micronutrient content for-energy and per-serving of these foods were determined for the three micronutrients. Exact Kruskal-Wallis tests were used for comparisons of energy costs; Spearman rho tests for comparisons of micronutrient content. Ninety families were interviewed in a pediatric clinic to assess the impact of food cost on food selection. Results: Significant differences between domains were shown for energy density with both cost-for-energy (p < 0.001) and cost-per-serving (p < 0.05) comparisons. All three micronutrient contents were significantly correlated with cost-for-energy (p < 0.01). Both iron and choline contents were significantly correlated with cost-per-serving (p < 0.05). Of the 90 families, 38 (42 %) worried about food costs; 40 (44 %) had chosen foods of high caloric density in response to that fear, and 29 of 40 families experiencing both worry and making such food selection. Conclusion: Adjustments to USDA meal plans using cost-for-energy analysis showed differentials for both energy and micronutrients. These differentials were reduced using cost-per-serving analysis, but were not eliminated. A substantial proportion of low-income families are vulnerable to micronutrient deficiencies.
Effect of Coenzyme Q10 on Oxidative Stress, Glycemic Control and Inflammation in Diabetic Neuropathy: A Double Blind Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Akbari Fakhrabadi Maryam , Zeinali Ghotrom Ahmad , Mozaffari-Khosravi Hassan , Hadi Nodoushan Hossein , Nadjarzadeh Azadeh
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Objective: This 12-week randomized placebo controlled clinical trial investigated the effect of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) on diabetic neuropathy, oxidative stress, blood glucose and lipid profile of patients with type 2 diabetes. Methods: Diabetic patients with neuropathic signs (n = 70) were randomly assigned to CoQ10 (200 mg/d) or placebo for 12 weeks. Blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis and neuropathy tests before and after the trial. Results: There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of mean fasting blood glucose, HbA1c and the lipid profile after the trial. The mean insulin sensitivity and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) concentration significantly increased in the Q10 group compared to the placebo after the trial (P < 0.05). C-reactive protein (hsCRP) significantly decreased in the intervention group compared to placebo after the trial (P < 0.05). In the control group, insulin sensitivity decreased and HOMA-IR increased, which revealed a significant difference between groups after the trial. Neuropathic symptoms and electromyography measurements did not differ between two groups after the trial. Conclusions: According to the present study, CoQ10, when given at a dose of 200 mg/d for 12 weeks to a group of neuropathic diabetic patients, did not improve the neuropathy signs compared to placebo, although it had some beneficial effects on TAC and hsCRP and probably a protective effect on insulin resistance.
Dietary Intake, Changes in Lipid Parameters and the Risk of Hypertriglyceridemia: A Prospective Approach in the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study
Authors: Mirmiran Parvin , Bahadoran Zahra , Mirzaei Sahar , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Background and aim: This study assessed the association of dietary factors with 3-year changes in serum triglycerides (TG), HDL-C and the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) among Iranian adults. Methods: This longitudinal study was conducted with 1938 adults. Demographics, anthropometrics and biochemical measurements, including serum (TG) and HDL-C and AIP, were assessed at baseline (2006 - 2008) and after a 3 year follow-up (2009 - 2011). Dietary data was collected using a validated food frequency questionnaire at baseline. The associations of dietary factors with 3-year changes in lipid parameters were evaluated using linear regression models and the incidence of hypertriglyceridemia after 3 years was assessed using logistic regression models with adjustment for potential confounders. Results: The mean age of the participants at baseline was 41.0 ± 13.0 years. Dietary energy density was negatively associated with HDL-C and positively associated with AIP changes (P < 0.05). A three-year change of serum TG was inversely related to energy intake from phytochemical rich foods, whole grains, and legumes (P < 0.05). Fast food intake was positively related to serum TG and AIP changes. Higher compared to lower intakes of dietary fiber and phytochemical-rich foods had similar impacts on a decreased risk of hypertriglyceridemia (OR = 0.58, 95 % CI = 0.34 - 1.00). Higher - compared to lower - dietary sodium to potassium ratios (Na/K ratio) increased the risk of hypertriglyceridemia by 63 % (OR = 0.1.63, 95 % CI = 0.34 - 1.00). Conclusion: These findings suggested that more dense diets, and a higher intake of fast food and fat, could have undesirable effects on lipid and lipoprotein levels; in contrast, higher intakes of fiber, and phytochemical rich foods, especially whole grain and legumes, could have protective effects against undesirable changes in lipid and lipid profiles.
Higher Bioavailability of Organic Bound Zinc from High Zinc-Enriched Fungi
Authors: Zhang Xin-Guo , Peng Yi-Nan , Li Xiao-Ru , Ma Guo-Di , Wang Ming-Gang
Published: August 2015

Abstract. The organic forms of trace elements are considered more bioavailable than the inorganic forms. Although yeast can enrich metal elements and convert inorganic zinc to organic species, its tolerability and transforming capacity are limited. It would therefore be very interesting to look for higher conversion and accumulation in zinc fungi to obtain organic bound zinc from the natural environment. In this paper, potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium containing 800 μg/mL zinc was used for initial screening, with twenty-two fungal strains that tolerated high zinc isolated from the natural environment, and one strain (No.LZ-1108) growing well at a zinc (II) concentration of 10,000 μg/mL. According to morphological analysis, 18S rDNA sequence analysis, and biophysical and biochemical characteristics, No.LZ-1108 was tentatively identiﬁed as Fusarium oxysporum. Using atomic absorption spectrometry, the zinc content in the No.LZ-1108 cells was found to be 6.7 mg/g dry cell. After oral administration to rats at a dose of 10 mg Zn (II)/kg body weight, the area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) and the maximum zinc blood concentration (Cmax) of No.LZ-1108 and zinc gluconate were 8.10 g/L.min and 4.28 g/L.min, 23.72 μg/mL and 6.23 μg/mL, respectively. The AUC of No.LZ-1108 was significantly higher than those of zinc gluconate (P<0.05), and the mean relative bioavailability of AUCtest/AUC zinc gluconate was 190 %, which showed that the bound zinc in No.LZ-1108 was more bioavailable than zinc gluconate. The present study reports an interesting alternative to developing zinc-based supplements from a natural source of zinc.
The Immunomodulating Effect of a Diet Consisting of Green Vegetables, Beef, Whole Milk and Full-Fat Butter for Children with Non-Specific Elevated IgE
Authors: van der Gaag Ellen Jose , Forbes Kristina
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Background: Non-specific elevated IgE and allergies are common in children, and their prevalence is increasing. Dietary changes could be an explanation for this increase. Zinc, iron, vitamins A, C and E, and polyunsaturated fatty acids all play possible roles in the etiology and possible treatment of allergies due to their numerous immunomodulating properties. Objectives: To investigate the immunomodulating effect of recommending a nutrient-rich diet consisting of green vegetables, beef, whole milk and full-fat butter. Methods: We conducted a case-controlled, non-randomized, retrospective study. Children between the ages of 1 and 18 years with non-specific elevated IgE were included. Baseline and follow-up measurements of serum total IgE and clinical outcomes were retrospectively collected and compared for 49 children who received the dietary advice (to eat green vegetables, beef, whole milk and full-fat butter) and 56 children who did not. Results: The initial analysis showed a significantly greater decrease in IgE in the intervention group compared to the control group; a 9.2 kU/l versus a 0.1 kU/l decrease, respectively (P = 0.02). When supplement (vitamin D) use was taken into account, however, no significant difference was produced by the dietary effect alone (unstandardized coefficient = 71.3 kU/l, P = 0.16). 53.2 % of participants in the intervention group reported considerable improvement in symptoms versus 28.6 % in the control group (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Overall, the effects of nutrients and vitamins on the decrease in IgE are promising. The separate contributions of dietary advice and/or supplements need to be investigated in the future.
PARP14 promotes the Warburg effect in hepatocellular carcinoma by inhibiting JNK1-dependent PKM2 phosphorylation and activation
Authors: Iansante Valeria , Choy Pui Man , Fung Sze Wai , Liu Ying , Chai Jian-Guo , Dyson Julian , Del Rio Alberto , D’Santos Clive , Williams Roger , Chokshi Shilpa , Anders Robert A , Bubici Concetta , Papa Salvatore
Published: August 2015

Most tumour cells use aerobic glycolysis (the Warburg effect) to support anabolic growth and evade apoptosis. Intriguingly, the molecular mechanisms that link the Warburg effect with the suppression of apoptosis are not well understood. In this study, using loss-of-function studies in vitro and in vivo, we show that the anti-apoptotic protein poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP)14 promotes aerobic glycolysis in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by maintaining low activity of the pyruvate kinase M2 isoform (PKM2), a key regulator of the Warburg effect. Notably, PARP14 is highly expressed in HCC primary tumours and associated with poor patient prognosis. Mechanistically, PARP14 inhibits the pro-apoptotic kinase JNK1, which results in the activation of PKM2 through phosphorylation of Thr365. Moreover, targeting PARP14 enhances the sensitization of HCC cells to anti-HCC agents. Our findings indicate that the PARP14-JNK1-PKM2 regulatory axis is an important determinant for the Warburg effect in tumour cells and provide a mechanistic link between apoptosis and metabolism.
Direct oriented growth of armchair graphene nanoribbons on germanium
Authors: Jacobberger Robert M. , Kiraly Brian , Fortin-Deschenes Matthieu , Levesque Pierre L. , McElhinny Kyle M. , Brady Gerald J. , Rojas Delgado Richard , Singha Roy Susmit , Mannix Andrew , Lagally Max G. , Evans Paul G. , Desjardins Patrick , Martel Richard , Hersam Mark C. , Guisinger Nathan P. , Arnold Michael S.
Published: August 2015

Graphene can be transformed from a semimetal into a semiconductor if it is confined into nanoribbons narrower than 10 nm with controlled crystallographic orientation and well-defined armchair edges. However, the scalable synthesis of nanoribbons with this precision directly on insulating or semiconducting substrates has not been possible. Here we demonstrate the synthesis of graphene nanoribbons on Ge(001) via chemical vapour deposition. The nanoribbons are self-aligning 3° from the Ge〈110〉 directions, are self-defining with predominantly smooth armchair edges, and have tunable width to <10 nm and aspect ratio to >70. In order to realize highly anisotropic ribbons, it is critical to operate in a regime in which the growth rate in the width direction is especially slow, <5 nm h−1. This directional and anisotropic growth enables nanoribbon fabrication directly on conventional semiconductor wafer platforms and, therefore, promises to allow the integration of nanoribbons into future hybrid integrated circuits.
Effects of the properties of short peptides conjugated with cell-penetrating peptides on their internalization into cells
Authors: Matsumoto Ryo , Okochi Mina , Shimizu Kazunori , Kanie Kei , Kato Ryuji , Honda Hiroyuki
Published: August 2015

Peptides, especially intracellular functional peptides that can play a particular role inside a cell, have attracted attention as promising materials to control cell fate. However, hydrophilic materials like peptides are difficult for cells to internalize. Therefore, the screening and design of intracellular functional peptides are more difficult than that of extracellular ones. An effective high-throughput screening system for intracellular functional peptides has not been reported. Here, we demonstrate a novel peptide array system for screening intracellular functional peptides, in which both cell-penetrating peptide (CPP) domain and photo-cleavable linkers are used. By using this screening system, we determined how the cellular uptake properties of CPP-conjugated peptides varied depending on the properties of the conjugated peptides. We found that the internalization ability of CPP-conjugated peptides varied greatly depending on the property of the conjugated peptides and anionic peptides drastically decreased the uptake ability. We summarized our data in a scatter diagram that plots hydrophobicity versus isoelectric point (pI) of conjugated peptides. These results define a peptide library suitable for screening of intracellular functional peptides. Thus, our system, including the diagram, is a promising tool for searching biological active molecules such as peptide-based drugs.
Electron Energy-loss Spectroscopy and Energy-dispersive X-ray Analysis
Authors: Ward M. B. , Hondow N. , Brown A. P. , Brydson R.
Published: August 2015

This chapter discusses the use of analytical transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to study the chemistry of materials at the nanoscale. Analytical TEM involves utilising the signals generated when a focused electron beam excites small volumes of material in a thin specimen. The most common analytical signals employed are emitted X-rays and direct energy losses induced in the transmitted primary electrons. These are measured using the spectroscopic techniques of energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). Both EDX and EELS can be performed in a variety of modes, including the collection of individual spectra from a particular point of interest, or the mapping of the distribution of different elements over a specified area of the sample. Further to this, spectra from both techniques can be used to quantitatively assess concentration values for individual elements, and in the case of EELS, be used to determine additional information on bonding and the oxidation state of certain elements. The capabilities of both techniques are explained using material examples, so that the reader can identify and employ the best analysis procedure to extract the most appropriate information from their sample.
Scanning Electron and Ion Microscopy of Nanostructures
Authors: Erdman Natasha , Bell David C.
Published: August 2015

This chapter discusses the basic principles of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and scanning helium ion microscopy (HeIM) and their application to nanoscale imaging and microanalysis. Different modes of imaging and their advantages for the examination of nanostructures are explained. A review of microscope design is included, as well as new developments of instrumentation and detectors. A discussion of analytical methods addresses the use of energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), wavelength dispersive spectroscopy (WDS), electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) and cathodoluminescence (CL) techniques in SEM. The emerging field of HeIM and its role in nanostructure imaging is discussed.
Biophysical approaches for the study of interactions between molecular chaperones and protein aggregates
Authors: Wright Maya A. , Aprile Francesco A. , Arosio Paolo , Vendruscolo Michele , Dobson Christopher M. , Knowles Tuomas P. J.
Published: August 2015

We give an overview of current biophysical methods that are being used to study molecular chaperones and their interactions with amyloid proteins.
Scaling properties of the shear modulus of polyelectrolyte complex coacervates: a time-pH superposition principle
Authors: Tekaat M. , Bütergerds D. , Schönhoff M. , Fery A. , Cramer C.
Published: August 2015

A novel time-pH superposition principle describes the complex shear moduli in polyelectrolyte complex coacervates.
Hydrolysis of the RNA model substrate catalyzed by a binuclear ZrIV-substituted Keggin polyoxometalate
Authors: Luong Thi Kim Nga , Absillis Gregory , Shestakova Pavletta , Parac-Vogt Tatjana N.
Published: August 2015

The kinetics and thermodynamics of 2-hydroxypropyl-4-nitrophenyl phosphate (HPNP) hydrolysis catalyzed by the binuclear ZrIV-substituted Keggin polyoxometalate (Et2NH2)8[{α-PW11O39Zr(μ-OH)(H2O)}2]·7H2O were fully reported.
Synthesis of oligodiaminomannoses and analysis of their RNA duplex binding properties and their potential application as siRNA-based drugs
Authors: Iwata Rintaro , Doi Akiko , Maeda Yusuke , Wada Takeshi
Published: August 2015

The synthesis of artificial cationic oligodiaminosaccharides, α-(1 → 4)-linked-2,6-diamino-2,6-dideoxy-d-mannopyranose oligomers (ODAMans), and their interactions with RNA duplexes are described.
Molecular architecture control in synthesis of spherical Ln-containing nanoparticles
Authors: Zhang Wuyuan , Martinelli Jonathan , Mayer Florian , Bonnet Célia S. , Szeremeta Frédéric , Djanashvili Kristina
Published: August 2015

The type of surfactant and the nature of the dispersed and continuous phases forming a miniemulsion, control the size and chemical composition of Ln-based nanoparticles.
Highly permeable ionic liquid membrane by both facilitated transport and the increase of diffusivity through porous materials
Authors: Chang Jungyun , Hong Gil Hwan , Kang Sang Wook
Published: August 2015

BMIM BF4/Cu nanoparticles/KIT-6 composite membrane for facilitating CO2 transport.
Ternary dye adsorption onto MnO2 nanoparticle-loaded activated carbon: derivative spectrophotometry and modeling
Authors: Asfaram Arash , Ghaedi Mehrorang , Hajati Shaaker , Goudarzi Alireza
Published: August 2015

MnO2 nanoparticle-loaded activated carbon (MnO2-NP-AC) as an efficient, environmental friendly and cost-effective adsorbent was synthesized and characterized using different techniques such as FE-SEM, EDX, XRD, BET and FTIR.
Effect of pre-imidization on the structures and properties of polyimide fibers
Authors: Chang Jingjing , Ge Qiyan , Zhang Mengying , Liu Weiwei , Cao Li , Niu Hongqing , Sui Gang , Wu Dezhen
Published: August 2015

The pre-imidization process was adopted in preparing high-performance polyimide fibers, resulting in the effectively improved mechanical properties of the resultant polyimide fibers.
Largely improved fracture toughness of an immiscible poly(l-lactide)/ethylene-co-vinyl acetate blend achieved by adding carbon nanotubes
Authors: Wang Xiong-fei , Zhang Zhi-xing , Li Jia-le , Yang Jing-hui , Wang Yong , Zhang Ji-hong
Published: August 2015

Through the bridging effect of CNTs, the fracture toughness of the immiscible PLLA/EVA blend was greatly improved.
In situ synthesis of g-C3N4/WO3 heterojunction plates array films with enhanced photoelectrochemical performance
Authors: Zhan Faqi , Xie Renrui , Li Wenzhang , Li Jie , Yang Yahui , Li Yaomin , Chen Qiyuan
Published: August 2015

g-C3N4/WO3 heterojunction plate array films with enhanced photoelectrochemical (PEC) performance were successfully synthesized through a combination of hydrothermal and dipping-annealing methods.
Effect of the content and distribution of ultraviolet absorbing groups on the UV protection and degradation of polylactide films
Authors: Ge Feijie , Ding Yanyun , Yang Long , Huang Yun , Jiang Long , Dan Yi
Published: August 2015

The effect of content and distribution of covalently bonded UV absorbing groups on the UV protection effect and UV irradiated degradation behavior of polylactide films were investigated.
Rational selection of solvents and fine tuning of morphologies toward highly efficient polymer solar cells fabricated using green solvents
Authors: Liu Delong , Wang Zaiyu , Zhang Shaoqing , Zheng Zhong , Yang Bei , Ma Wei , Hou Jianhui
Published: August 2015

The polymer solar cells fabricated by the green solvent (anisole/diphenyl ether) exhibited an outstanding PCE of 8.37%.
Chirality transfer through sulfur or selenium to chiral propellers
Authors: Skowronek Paweł , Ścianowski Jacek , Pacuła Agata J. , Gawroński Jacek
Published: August 2015

Steric and electronic effects to the structure of a trityl moiety due chirality transfer by ECD method and DFT calculation.
Oxygen permeation behavior through Ce0.9Gd0.1O2−δ membranes electronically short-circuited by dual-phase Ce0.9Gd0.1O2−δ–Ag decoration
Authors: Zhang Chi , Meng Xiuxia , Sunarso Jaka , Liu Lihong , Xu Rong , Shao Zongping , Liu Shaomin
Published: August 2015

A dual-phase thin porous decoration layer of Ce0.9Gd0.1O2−δ–Ag is applied to improve the Ce0.9Gd0.1O2−δ membrane performance via an electronically short-circuited design.
Carbon nanotube-supported Cu3N nanocrystals as a highly active catalyst for oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Su C.-Y. , Liu B.-H. , Lin T.-J. , Chi Y.-M. , Kei C.-C. , Wang K.-W. , Perng T.-P.
Published: August 2015

We report a heterostructured Cu3N@CNT electrocatalyst for application in alkaline fuel cells. The size of well-dispersed Cu3N nanoparticles can be precisely controlled by ALD. Superior catalytic oxygen reduction reaction performance was achieved with a mixed two- and four-electron process.
Facile synthesis of reduced graphene oxide wrapped nickel silicate hierarchical hollow spheres for long-life lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Tang Chunjuan , Sheng Jinzhi , Xu Chang , Khajehbashi S. M. B. , Wang Xuanpeng , Hu Ping , Wei Xiujuan , Wei Qiulong , Zhou Liang , Mai Liqiang
Published: August 2015

A NiSiO/RGO composite facilitates electron transportation and accommodates the large volume variation during lithium ion insertion and extraction.
The metabolism of benz[a]anthracene and dibenz[a,h]anthracene and their 5,6-epoxy-5,6-dihydro derivatives by rat-liver homogenates
Authors: Boyland E , Sims P
Published: August 2015

1. Benz[a]anthracene was hydroxylated by rat-liver homogenates on the 3,4-,5,6- or 8,9-bond to yield phenols and dihydrodihydroxy compounds. Metabolic action at the 7- and 12-positions was also detected. 5,6-Epoxy-5,6-dihydrobenzanthracene was converted into a phenol that is probably 5-hydroxybenzanthracene and 5,6-dihydro-5,6-dihydroxybenzanthracene. Both substrates yielded a product that is probably S-(5,6-dihydro-6-hydroxy-5-benzanthracenyl)glutathione. 2. Dibenz[a,h]anthracene was hydroxylated by rat-liver homogenates to yield products that are probably 3- and 4-hydroxydibenzanthracene, 1,2-dihydro-1,2-dihydroxydibenzanthracene, 3,4-dihydro-3,4-dihydroxydibenzanthracene and 5,6-dihydro-5,6-dihydroxydibenzanthracene. There was no evidence for metabolic action at the 7- and 14-positions. 5,6-Epoxy-5,6-dihydrodibenzanthracene was converted into a phenol that is probably 5-hydroxydibenzanthracene and 5,6-dihydro-5,6-dihydroxydibenzanthracene. Both substrates yielded a glutathione conjugate that is probably S-(5,6-dihydro-6-hydroxy-5-dibenzanthracenyl)glutathione. 3. The synthesis of 5,6-epoxy-5,6-dihydrodibenzanthracene is described and the reactions of this epoxide and 5,6-epoxy-5,6-dihydrobenzanthracene with water and thiols have been investigated. 4. The oxidation of dibenzanthracene in the ascorbic acid-Fe(2+) ion-oxygen model system is described.
The mechanism of the reaction catalysed by adenosine triphosphate-creatine phosphotransferase
Authors: Morrison JF , James E
Published: August 2015

1. The forward and reverse reactions catalysed by ATP-creatine phosphotransferase have been studied kinetically at pH8.0 in the presence and absence of products, under conditions in which the free Mg(2+) concentration was maintained constant at 1mm. Thus at fixed pH the reaction may be considered as being bireactant and expressed as:MgATP(2-)+creatine(0)right harpoon over left harpoonMgADP(-)+phosphocreatine(2-)2. The initial-velocity pattern in the absence of products and the product-inhibition pattern have been determined. These are consistent with a random mechanism in which all steps are in rapid equilibrium except that concerned with the interconversion of the central ternary complexes, and in which two dead-end complexes (enzyme-MgADP-creatine and enzyme-MgATP-phosphocreatine) are formed. The results are in accord with previous suggestions that the enzyme possesses distinct sites for the combination of the nucleotide and guanidino substrates. 3. Values have been determined for the Michaelis and dissociation constants involved in the combination of each substrate with various enzyme forms. Although these values cannot be regarded as absolute, they appear to indicate that the presence of one substrate on the enzyme enhances the combination of the second substrate. In addition, it would seem that in the formation of the enzyme-MgADP-creatine complex the concentration of one reactant does not affect the combination of the other. This contrasts with the formation of the enzyme-MgATP-phosphocreatine complex, where each reactant hinders the combination of the other.
Separation of acid and neutral proteinases of brain
Authors: Marks N , Lajtha A
Published: August 2015

1. Cerebral proteinases were separated on Sephadex G-100 columns into acid and neutral fractions free from cross-contamination. Acid proteinases were more stable and were purified by additional steps with salt and pH5.0 precipitations, column chromatography on DEAE- or CM-cellulose and free-flow electrophoresis. 2. The separation made it possible to study the properties of the partially purified enzyme fractions. Some of these properties, such as K(m) with selected protein substrates, pH optima and temperature-dependence in the presence and absence of substrates, are described. 3. No requirement for metal ions or added cofactors was demonstrated. Neutral-proteinase activity was more sensitive to inhibition by heavy-metal ions; its activity could be increased by thioglycollate and glutathione, and inhibited by thiol reagents. Neutral and acid proteinases were inhibited by the chymotrypsin inhibitor chloromethyl l-2-phenyl-1-toluene-p-sulphonamidoethyl ketone. 4. In the presence of the appropriate synthetic substrates no cathepsin A activity was found, and only trace quantities of cathepsin B or C activities, which were more than 50-fold less than cathepsin D-like activity.
Changes in the activities of respiratory enzymes during the aerobic growth of yeast on different carbon sources
Authors: Polakis ES , Bartley W , Meek GA
Published: August 2015

1. Unlike yeast cells grown on glucose (0.9%), cells grown on galactose aerobically or anaerobically as well as cells grown on very low glucose concentrations (0.09%) have been found to possess mitochondria. 2. Synthesis of respiratory enzymes was less in the presence of glucose than galactose. When either sugar was consumed, synthesis of these enzymes increased. 3. A possible mechanism is suggested for the repression of mitochondrial formation by glucose by means of a; high-energy' substance easily derived from glucose.
The effect of vitamin A deficiency and dietary α-tocopherol on the stability of rat-liver lysosomes
Authors: Roels OA , Trout M , Guha A
Published: August 2015

1. Vitamin A-deficient rats and pair-fed controls were maintained on either normal or raised amounts of dietary alpha-tocopherol. 2. Their livers were fractionated and; free' and; total' lysosomal phosphatase were determined in the various fractions. The rate of release of this enzyme was determined in the mitochondria-lysosome-rich fraction during incubation at pH5 and 37 degrees . 3. The deficient livers showed increased enzymic activity. 4. Prolonged incubation caused more rapid enzyme release from the mitochondria-lysosome-rich fraction of the vitamin A-deficient rats receiving the normal amount of dietary alpha-tocopherol than from the equivalent fraction of their pair-fed controls receiving vitamin A. Raised dietary alpha-tocopherol reversed this phenomenon.
The action of phospholipase C on ethanolamine plasmalogen (2-acyl-1-alkenylglycerylphosphorylethanolamine)
Authors: Ansell GB , Spanner S
Published: August 2015

1. The phospholipase C of Bacillus cereus attacks the ethanolamine plasmalogen of brain to yield a plasmalogenic diglyceride (2-acyl-1-alkenylglycerol). 2. This plasmalogenic diglyceride is analogous to the material obtained by the action of the phospholipase C of Clostridium welchii on the choline plasmalogen of heart.