bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hg4O3[ReO4]2, Featuring a 2D Polycationic Framework [Hg4O3]2+ with Tetrahedral Rhenate(VII) Anions Embedded
Authors: Prasad Beluvalli E. , Nuss Jürgen , Felser Claudia , Jansen Martin
Published: November 2016

New Hg4O3[ReO4]2 was obtained via low temperature synthesis, at 65–70 °C. The coarse crystalline, single phase product is pale yellow, starts to decompose at 540 °C and sublimes without leaving behind any solid residue at 685 °C in an argon atmosphere. Its crystal structure [P21/n (14), a = 7.0104(10), b = 12.5046(18), c = 12.1692(18) Å, β = 91.838(3)°, Z = 4] can be rationalized as a stuffed HgRe2 sub lattice, adopting the MgZn2 Laves phase arrangement. The resulting structure after inserting the oxygen atoms consists of heavily corrugated 2D polycationic Hg/O networks stacked along [001] with the tetrahedral oxorhenate(VII) anions accommodated in the folds of individual layers.
Phase Behavior and Micro‐Structure of Fat–Oil Mixtures: Engineering the Shape of Fat Clusters
Authors: Ramamirtham Sashikumar , Shahin A. , Basavaraj Madivala G. , Deshpande Abhijit P.
Published: November 2016

The mechanical properties of fat–oil mixtures are dictated by the morphology of the fat crystal network, which in turn is strongly affected by the processing conditions. In this work the effect of uniform (linear) cooling rates on the size and shape of tribehenin (fat) clusters in isopropyl myristate (oil) was studied. The state of the fat–oil mixtures was comprehensively analyzed by establishing pseudo‐phase diagrams via visual observations, brightfield and polarization microscopy at various cooling rates and fat concentrations. The microstructure of the constituent fat clusters undergo a shape transition from bundles of needles at low cooling rates to spherical clusters at high cooling rates. The network structures formed with these different shaped fat clusters were examined using rheology. At a given cooling rate, the storage modulus (Gʹ) of fat–oil mixtures versus fat concentration followed a power law relationship. For a given fat concentration, the fat crystal networks comprising of bundles of needles showed higher Gʹ values as compared to fat networks made of spherical clusters. While the fractal dimension of networks cooled at different cooling rates varied over a small range of 2.78–2.86, considerable change in the pre‐exponential factor (γ) was observed. The results show the critical importance of processing conditions on the shape and size of fat clusters and its impact on the rheological properties of the fat crystal network.
Evaluating Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) to Measure Lipid Oxidation Lag Phase for Shelf‐Life Determination of Oils
Authors: Cui Leqi , Lahti Paul M. , Decker Eric A.
Published: November 2016

Lipid oxidation is one of the major causes of oil deterioration causing off‐flavors and consumer rejection. Fast, easy, and dependable assays for predicting lipid oxidation rates in foods are important for shelf‐life prediction. In this study, an electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spin‐trapping technique with N‐tert‐butyl‐α‐phenylnitrone (PBN) was tested to determine the lag phase of lipid oxidation in stripped soybean oil (SSO), SSO with added α‐tocopherol, and commercial soybean, canola and corn oils. EPR intensity of spin‐trapped products from SSO correlated well with lipid hydroperoxides formation for samples stored at 37 and 55 °C respectively. When the antioxidant α‐tocopherol was added, the EPR signal intensity of oil samples increased—indicating sample deterioration—after 50–65% of α‐tocopherol was consumed. When using the EPR method with commercial soybean, canola or corn oil stored at 55 °C, there was a poor relationship between EPR intensity and lipid hydroperoxides lag phases. However, a linear correlation was found between EPR signal intensity and hexanal formation. For example, EPR signal intensity lag phases were 5, 13 and 27 days for soybean, canola and corn oils, respectively which was similar to the hexanal lag phases of 5, 13 and 25 days for the same oils. The EPR spin‐trapping assay method has several advantages over headspace hexanal measurements, especially with regard to easier sample handling and shorter analysis times.
The Significance of Test Failures in Noninvasive Prenatal Screening for Fetal Aneuploidy Using Cell-free DNA
Authors: Benn Peter
Published: November 2016

Noninvasive prenatal screening (NIPS) for fetal aneuploidy is less effective when there is a small fraction of fetal cell-free DNA in the maternal plasma. In this study, modeling was used to assess the impact of a low fetal fraction (FF) in NIPS when (a) FF is not measured; (b) low FF cases receive invasive testing; (c) low FF cases receive the combined test; (d) low FF cases receive the quadruple test. Modeling was based on expected performance of NIPS, invasive testing, and conventional screening. NIPS failure rates of 0–6% due to low FF were considered under the assumption that aneuploidy rates were the same in successful and unsuccessful cases. In a secondary analysis, the effect of higher rates of aneuploidy in failed cases was assessed. Failure to measure FF can result in lower detection rates. Providing invasive tests to all women with low FF restores a high level of detection but at the expense of many unnecessary invasive tests. Utilization of conventional screening results in only a modest loss in detection and limited deterioration in the false-positive rate. These trends are more apparent when higher rates of fetal aneuploidy are present in low FF women. Recognizing those cases where an NIPS result is invalid due to low FF is important from both the individual patient and overall population screening perspectives. When there is a NIPS test failure due to low FF, utilization of conventional maternal serum marker screening and ultrasound should be considered for women who have previously not received conventional screening.
Bedside Chest Radiographs and How Ambiguous Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter Tips Happen: A Case Report
Authors: Gordon Stuart
Published: November 2016

Verification of peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) tip location with radiographic imaging is at times challenging. This case report details the experience of 1 patient and the difficulties encountered identifying the PICC tip using bedside chest radiographs. It examines, offers to explain the issues, and reviews the results of 209 chest radiographs post-PICC placement for consistency.
Acute Brown-Séquard Syndrome Caused by Cervical Prolapsed Intervertebral Disc: First Reported Local Case and Literature Review
Authors: Lau Janice C.K. , Kin Li Ka
Published: November 2016

Cervical prolapsed intervertebral disc is a common pathology that may have a wide range of presentations, from incidental finding on imaging to neck pain to different neurological symptoms. Brown-Séquard syndrome is a rare presentation of cervical disc prolapse but it usually carries a good prognosis for recovery. We present an uncommon case of C3/4 cervical prolapsed intervertebral disc causing acute Brown-Séquard syndrome, the first-ever reported in the local literature.
The need for an integrated approach for chronic disease research and care in Africa
Authors: Barr A. L. , Young E. H. , Smeeth L. , Newton R. , Seeley J. , Ripullone K. , Hird T. R. , Thornton J. R. M. , Nyirenda M. J. , Kapiga S. , Adebamowo C. A. , Amoah A. G. , Wareham N. , Rotimi C. N. , Levitt N. S. , Ramaiya K. , Hennig B. J. , Mbanya J. C. , Tollman S. , Motala A. A. , Kaleebu P. , Sandhu M. S.
Published: November 2016

With the changing distribution of infectious diseases, and an increase in the burden of non-communicable diseases, low- and middle-income countries, including those in Africa, will need to expand their health care capacities to effectively respond to these epidemiological transitions. The interrelated risk factors for chronic infectious and non-communicable diseases and the need for long-term disease management, argue for combined strategies to understand their underlying causes and to design strategies for effective prevention and long-term care. Through multidisciplinary research and implementation partnerships, we advocate an integrated approach for research and healthcare for chronic diseases in Africa.
Diabetes, pre-diabetes and their risk factors in Malta: a study profile of national cross-sectional prevalence study
Authors: Cuschieri S. , Vassallo J. , Calleja N. , Pace N. , Mamo J.
Published: November 2016

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus constitutes a global epidemic and a major burden on health care systems across the world. Prevention of this disease is essential, and the development of effective prevention strategies requires validated information on the disease burden and the risk factors. Embarking on a nationally representative cross-sectional study is challenging and costly. Few countries undertake this process regularly, if at all.

Method

This paper sets out the evidence-based protocol of a recent cross-sectional study that was conducted in Malta. Data collection took place from November 2014 to January 2016.

Results

This study presents up-to-date national data on diabetes and its risk factors (such as obesity, smoking, physical activity and alcohol intake) that will soon be publicly available.

Conclusion

This protocol was compiled so that the study can be replicated in other countries. The protocol contains step-by-step descriptions of the study design, including details on the population sampling, the permissions required and the validated measurement tools used.
Nano-Sized Cuboid-Shaped Phase in Mg–Nd–Y Alloy and its Behavior During Isothermal Aging
Authors: Zheng Jingxu , Luo Zhongyuan , Tan Lida , Chen Bin
Published: November 2016

In the present study, nano-sized cuboid-shaped particles in Mg–Nd–Y are studied by means ofCs-corrected atomic-scale high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy. The structure of the cuboid-shaped phase is identified to be yttrium (major component) and neodymium atoms in face-centered cubic arrangement without the participation of Mg. The lattice parametera=5.15 Å. During isothermal aging at 225°C, Mg3(Nd,Y) precipitates adhere to surface (100) planes of the cuboid-shaped particles with the orientation relationship:$[100]_{{{\rm Mg}_{{\rm 3}} {\rm RE}}} \,/\,\,/\,[100]_{{{\rm Cuboid}}} $and$[310]_{{{\rm Mg}_{{\rm 3}} {\rm RE}}} \,/\,\,/\,[012]_{{{\rm Cuboid}}} $. The fully coherent interfaces between the precipitates and the cuboid-shaped phases are reconstructed and categorized into two types:$(400)_{{{\rm Mg}_{{\rm 3}} {\rm RE}}} $interface and$(200)_{{{\rm Mg}_{{\rm 3}} {\rm RE}}} $interface.
Continuity in Well-Being in the Transition to Retirement
Authors: Henning Georg , Lindwall Magnus , Johansson Boo
Published: November 2016

Abstract. We review recent longitudinal studies on change and continuity in well-being during the retirement transition. Our conclusion is that most retirees maintain their level of well-being over retirement. Some studies, however, provide evidence for a substantial heterogeneity and dynamic effects. A smaller subgroup experiences losses in resources and challenges which compromise their well-being. Various adaptive actions seem to help to cope with losses, but we still lack more detailed information about the role and effects of these coping strategies. Future longitudinal studies need to address the role of and interplay among these adaptive behaviors over the retirement transition to improve our understanding of continuity and change in postretirement well-being.
Earth's Carbon-Climate Feedbacks Varied in Past Warming Episodes
Authors: Cook Terri
Published: November 2016

Records from drill holes in the eastern equatorial Pacific indicate that Earth's orbital eccentricity played an important role in controlling climate as the planet warmed.
Non-oral dopaminergic therapies for Parkinson’s disease: current treatments and the future
Authors: Ray Chaudhuri K , Qamar Mubasher A , Rajah Thadshani , Loehrer Philipp , Sauerbier Anna , Odin Per , Jenner Peter
Published: November 2016

Dysfunction of the gastrointestinal tract has now been recognized to affect all stages of Parkinson’s disease (PD). The consequences lead to problems with absorption of oral medication, erratic treatment response, as well as silent aspiration, which is one of the key risk factors in developing pneumonia. The issue is further complicated by other gut abnormalities, such as small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and an altered gut microbiota, which occur in PD with variable frequency. Clinically, these gastrointestinal abnormalities might be associated with symptoms such as nausea, early-morning “off”, and frequent motor and non-motor fluctuations. Therefore, non-oral therapies that avoid the gastrointestinal system seem a rational option to overcome the problems of oral therapies in PD. Hence, several non-oral strategies have now been actively investigated and developed. The transdermal rotigotine patch, infusion therapies with apomorphine, intrajejunal levodopa, and the apomorphine pen strategy are currently in clinical use with a few others in development. In this review, we discuss and summarize the most recent developments in this field with a focus on non-oral dopaminergic strategies (excluding surgical interventions such as deep brain stimulation) in development or to be licensed for management of PD.
A-Kinase Anchoring Protein 4 (AKAP4) is an ERK1/2 substrate and a switch molecule between cAMP/PKA and PKC/ERK1/2 in human spermatozoa
Authors: Rahamim Ben-Navi Liat , Almog Tal , Yao Zhong , Seger Rony , Naor Zvi
Published: November 2016

Mammalian spermatozoa undergo capacitation and acrosome reaction in order to fertilize the egg. The PKC-ERK1/2 pathway plays an important role in human spermatozoa motility, capacitation and the acrosome reaction. Here we demonstrate that ERK1/2 phosphorylates proAKAP4 on Thr265 in human spermatozoain vitro and in vivo. Cyclic AMP (cAMP) had no effect on ERK1/2 activity in human spermatozoa, but stimulated the MAPK in mouse pituitary LβT2 gonadotrope cells. cAMP via PKA attenuates PKC-dependent ERK1/2 activation only in the presence of proAKAP4. St-HT31, which disrupts PKA-regulatory subunit II (PKA-RII) binding to AKAP abrogates the inhibitory effect of cAMP in human spermatozoa and in HEK293T cells expressing proAKAP4. In transfected HEK293T cells, PMA relocated proAKAP4, but not proAKAP4-T265A to the Golgi in an ERK1/2-dependnet manner. Similarly, AKAP4 is localized to the spermatozoa principal piece and is relocated to the mid-piece and the postacrosomal region by PMA. Furthermore, using capacitated sperm we found that cAMP reduced PMA-induced ERK1/2 activation and acrosome reaction. Thus, the physiological role of the negative crosstalk between the cAMP/PKA/AKAP4 and the PKC/ERK1/2 pathways is to regulate capacitation and acrosome reaction.
Nanomechanical properties of distinct fibrillar polymorphs of the protein α-synuclein
Authors: Makky Ali , Bousset Luc , Polesel-Maris Jérôme , Melki Ronald
Published: November 2016

Alpha-synuclein (α-Syn) is a small presynaptic protein of 140 amino acids. Its pathologic intracellular aggregation within the central nervous system yields protein fibrillar inclusions named Lewy bodies that are the hallmarks of Parkinson’s disease (PD). In solution, pure α-Syn adopts an intrinsically disordered structure and assembles into fibrils that exhibit considerable morphological heterogeneity depending on their assembly conditions. We recently established tightly controlled experimental conditions allowing the assembly of α-Syn into highly homogeneous and pure polymorphs. The latter exhibited differences in their shape, their structure but also in their functional properties. We have conducted an AFM study at high resolution and performed a statistical analysis of fibrillar α-Syn shape and thermal fluctuations to calculate the persistence length to further assess the nanomechanical properties of α-Syn polymorphs. Herein, we demonstrated quantitatively that distinct polymorphs made of the same protein (wild-type α-Syn) show significant differences in their morphology (height, width and periodicity) and physical properties (persistence length, bending rigidity and axial Young’s modulus).
Structural basis for the dissociation of α-synuclein fibrils triggered by pressure perturbation of the hydrophobic core
Authors: de Oliveira Guilherme A. P. , Marques Mayra de A. , Cruzeiro-Silva Carolina , Cordeiro Yraima , Schuabb Caroline , Moraes Adolfo H. , Winter Roland , Oschkinat Hartmut , Foguel Debora , Freitas Mônica S. , Silva Jerson L.
Published: November 2016

Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disease in which aggregated forms of the α-synuclein (α-syn) protein are found. We used high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) coupled with NMR spectroscopy to study the dissociation of α-syn fibril into monomers and evaluate their structural and dynamic properties. Different dynamic properties in the non-amyloid-β component (NAC), which constitutes the Greek-key hydrophobic core, and in the acidic C-terminal region of the protein were identified by HHP NMR spectroscopy. In addition, solid-state NMR revealed subtle differences in the HHP-disturbed fibril core, providing clues to how these species contribute to seeding α-syn aggregation. These findings show how pressure can populate so far undetected α-syn species, and they lay out a roadmap for fibril dissociation via pathways not previously observed using other approaches. Pressure perturbs the cavity-prone hydrophobic core of the fibrils by pushing water inward, thereby inducing the dissociation into monomers. Our study offers the molecular details of how hydrophobic interaction and the formation of water-excluded cavities jointly contribute to the assembly and stabilization of the fibrils. Understanding the molecular forces behind the formation of pathogenic fibrils uncovered by pressure perturbation will aid in the development of new therapeutics against Parkinson’s disease.
Pharmacological characterization of a high-affinity p-tyramine transporter in rat brain synaptosomes
Authors: Berry Mark D. , Hart Shannon , Pryor Anthony R. , Hunter Samantha , Gardiner Danielle
Published: November 2016

p-Tyramine is an archetypal member of the endogenous family of monoamines known as trace amines, and is one of the endogenous agonists for trace amine-associated receptor (TAAR)1. While much work has focused on the function of TAAR1, very little is known about the regulation of the endogenous agonists. We have previously reported that p-tyramine readily crosses lipid bilayers and that its release from synaptosomes is non-exocytotic. Such release, however, showed characteristics of modification by one or more transporters. Here we provide the first characterization of such a transporter. Using frontal cortical and striatal synaptosomes we show that p-tyramine passage across synaptosome membranes is not modified by selective inhibition of either the dopamine, noradrenaline or 5-HT transporters. In contrast, inhibition of uptake-2 transporters significantly slowed p-tyramine re-uptake. Using inhibitors of varying selectivity, we identify Organic Cation Transporter 2 (OCT2; SLC22A2) as mediating high affinity uptake of p-tyramine at physiologically relevant concentrations. Further, we confirm the presence of OCT2 protein in synaptosomes. These results provide the first identification of a high affinity neuronal transporter for p-tyramine, and also confirm the recently described localization of OCT2 in pre-synaptic terminals.
Body composition and bone mineral status in patients with Turner syndrome
Authors: Shi Kun , Liu Li , He Yao-Juan , Li Duan , Yuan Lian-Xiong , Lash Gendie E. , Li Li
Published: November 2016

Turner syndrome (TS) is associated with decreased bone mineral density and increased fracture rate. However, the developmental trajectory of bone density or body composition in patients with TS is still unclear. The present study tested the hypothesis that different karyotypes and/or age contributes to abnormal body composition and decreased bone mineral status parameters in patients with TS. This study included 24 girls with TS, in which 13 girls exhibited X0 karyotype and 11 had mosaicism. Quantitative ultrasound (QUS) assessed the bone mineral status of the calcaneus, including bone mineral density (BMD), amplitude-dependent speed of sound (AD-SOS), broadband ultrasound attenuation (BUA) and InBody 770 assessed body composition. Pearson’s test was performed to correlate measured parameters with patient age. The body composition and bone mineral status parameters were not significantly influenced by patient karyotype. There was a correlation between patient age and AD-SOS (r = −0.61, P = 0.002) and BUA (r = 0.50, P = 0.013) but not BMD (r = −0.19, P = 0.379). In conclusion, there was no effect of karyotype on body composition or body mineral status. Bone mineral status, as evidenced by changes in AD-SOS and BUA, alters with age regardless of karyotype. The developmental trajectory demonstrated in the current study warrants further validation in a longitudinal study.
Sequencing-based breast cancer diagnostics as an alternative to routine biomarkers
Authors: Rantalainen Mattias , Klevebring Daniel , Lindberg Johan , Ivansson Emma , Rosin Gustaf , Kis Lorand , Celebioglu Fuat , Fredriksson Irma , Czene Kamila , Frisell Jan , Hartman Johan , Bergh Jonas , Grönberg Henrik
Published: November 2016

Sequencing-based breast cancer diagnostics have the potential to replace routine biomarkers and provide molecular characterization that enable personalized precision medicine. Here we investigate the concordance between sequencing-based and routine diagnostic biomarkers and to what extent tumor sequencing contributes clinically actionable information. We applied DNA- and RNA-sequencing to characterize tumors from 307 breast cancer patients with replication in up to 739 patients. We developed models to predict status of routine biomarkers (ER, HER2,Ki-67, histological grade) from sequencing data. Non-routine biomarkers, including mutations in BRCA1, BRCA2 and ERBB2(HER2), and additional clinically actionable somatic alterations were also investigated. Concordance with routine diagnostic biomarkers was high for ER status (AUC = 0.95;AUC(replication) = 0.97) and HER2 status (AUC = 0.97;AUC(replication) = 0.92). The transcriptomic grade model enabled classification of histological grade 1 and histological grade 3 tumors with high accuracy (AUC = 0.98;AUC(replication) = 0.94). Clinically actionable mutations in BRCA1, BRCA2 and ERBB2(HER2) were detected in 5.5% of patients, while 53% had genomic alterations matching ongoing or concluded breast cancer studies. Sequencing-based molecular profiling can be applied as an alternative to histopathology to determine ER and HER2 status, in addition to providing improved tumor grading and clinically actionable mutations and molecular subtypes. Our results suggest that sequencing-based breast cancer diagnostics in a near future can replace routine biomarkers.
THD-Module Extractor: An Application for CEN Module Extraction and Interesting Gene Identification for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Kakati Tulika , Kashyap Hirak , Bhattacharyya Dhruba K.
Published: November 2016

There exist many tools and methods for construction of co-expression network from gene expression data and for extraction of densely connected gene modules. In this paper, a method is introduced to construct co-expression network and to extract co-expressed modules having high biological significance. The proposed method has been validated on several well known microarray datasets extracted from a diverse set of species, using statistical measures, such as p and q values. The modules obtained in these studies are found to be biologically significant based on Gene Ontology enrichment analysis, pathway analysis, and KEGG enrichment analysis. Further, the method was applied on an Alzheimer’s disease dataset and some interesting genes are found, which have high semantic similarity among them, but are not significantly correlated in terms of expression similarity. Some of these interesting genes, such as MAPT, CASP2, and PSEN2, are linked with important aspects of Alzheimer’s disease, such as dementia, increase cell death, and deposition of amyloid-beta proteins in Alzheimer’s disease brains. The biological pathways associated with Alzheimer’s disease, such as, Wnt signaling, Apoptosis, p53 signaling, and Notch signaling, incorporate these interesting genes. The proposed method is evaluated in regard to existing literature.
Photodegradation of organic pollutants RhB dye using UV simulated sunlight on ceria based TiO2 nanomaterials for antibacterial applications
Authors: Kasinathan Kaviyarasu , Kennedy John , Elayaperumal Manikandan , Henini Mohamed , Malik Maaza
Published: November 2016

To photo-catalytically degrade RhB dye using solar irradiation, CeO2 doped TiO2 nanocomposites were synthesized hydrothermally at 700 °C for 9 hrs. All emission spectra showed a prominent band centered at 442 nm that was attributed to oxygen related defects in the CeO2-TiO2 nanocrystals. Two sharp absorption bands at 1418 cm−1 and 3323 cm−1 were attributed to the deformation and stretching vibration, and bending vibration of the OH group of water physisorbed to TiO2, respectively. The photocatalytic activities of Ce-TiO2 nanocrystals were investigated through the degradation of RhB under UV and UV+ visible light over a period of 8 hrs. After 8 hrs, the most intense absorption peak at 579 nm disappeared under the highest photocatalytic activity and 99.89% of RhB degraded under solar irradiation. Visible light-activated TiO2 could be prepared from metal-ion incorporation, reduction of TiO2, non-metal doping or sensitizing of TiO2 using dyes. Studying the antibacterial activity of Ce-TiO2 nanocrystals against E. coli revealed significant activity when 10 μg was used, suggesting that it can be used as an antibacterial agent. Its effectiveness is likely related to its strong oxidation activity and superhydrophilicity. This study also discusses the mechanism of heterogeneous photocatalysis in the presence of TiO2.
Experimental temporal quantum steering
Authors: Bartkiewicz Karol , Černoch Antonín , Lemr Karel , Miranowicz Adam , Nori Franco
Published: November 2016

Temporal steering is a form of temporal correlation between the initial and final state of a quantum system. It is a temporal analogue of the famous Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen (spatial) steering. We demonstrate, by measuring the photon polarization, that temporal steering allows two parties to verify if they have been interacting with the same particle, even if they have no information about what happened with the particle in between the measurements. This is the first experimental study of temporal steering. We also performed experimental tests, based on the violation of temporal steering inequalities, of the security of two quantum key distribution protocols against individual attacks. Thus, these results can lead to applications for secure quantum communications and quantum engineering.
Prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its risk factors among rural adults in Nantong, China
Authors: Xiao Jing , Wu Chuan-Li , Gao Yue-Xia , Wang Shu-Lan , Wang Lei , Lu Qing-Yun , Wang Xiao-Jian , Hua Tian-Qi , Shen Huan , Cai Hui
Published: November 2016

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS) varies worldwide due to genetic and environmental factors. A population-based cross-sectional study, with 37,582 participants recruited in Nantong, China in 2007-2008 (stage I) and 2013 (stage II). Socio-demographic, lifestyle factors, disease history and fasting blood sample were collected. The prevalence of MS was much higher in 2013 (42.6%) than that in 2007-2008 (21.6%), which was significantly higher in older people in both stages. Participants with two or more familial history of diseases were associated with a higher MS prevalence compared to those who didn’t have familial history of diseases. Total physical activity (PA) was associated with 24 and 19% decreased risk of MS in men and women. Occupational PA in moderate and vigorous intensity was associated with a 25%-45% decreased risk of MS. Female smokers who smoked more than 10 cigarettes per day or over 25 years were associated with 96 and 74% increased MS risk, respectively. The highest quartile of rice wine consumption was associated with a lower risk of MS with OR of 0.63 in women, compared with female non-drinkers. These findings indicated that PA and rice wine are two protective factors in MS prevention in rural areas of East China.
Block of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors by philanthotoxins is strongly dependent on their subunit composition
Authors: Kachel Hamid S. , Patel Rohit N. , Franzyk Henrik , Mellor Ian R.
Published: November 2016

Philanthotoxin-433 (PhTX-433) is an active component of the venom from the Egyptian digger wasp, Philanthus triangulum. PhTX-433 inhibits several excitatory ligand-gated ion channels, and to improve selectivity two synthetic analogues, PhTX-343 and PhTX-12, were developed. Previous work showed a 22-fold selectivity of PhTX-12 over PhTX-343 for embryonic muscle-type nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in TE671 cells. We investigated their inhibition of different neuronal nAChR subunit combinations as well as of embryonic muscle receptors expressed in Xenopus oocytes. Whole-cell currents in response to application of acetylcholine alone or co-applied with PhTX analogue were studied by using two-electrode voltage-clamp. α3β4 nAChRs were most sensitive to PhTX-343 (IC50 = 12 nM at −80 mV) with α4β4, α4β2, α3β2, α7 and α1β1γδ being 5, 26, 114, 422 and 992 times less sensitive. In contrast α1β1γδ was most sensitive to PhTX-12 along with α3β4 (IC50 values of 100 nM) with α4β4, α4β2, α3β2 and α7 being 3, 3, 26 and 49 times less sensitive. PhTX-343 inhibition was strongly voltage-dependent for all subunit combinations except α7, whereas this was not the case for PhTX-12 for which weak voltage dependence was observed. We conclude that PhTX-343 mainly acts as an open-channel blocker of nAChRs with strong subtype selectivity.
Development and evaluation of near-isogenic lines for brown planthopper resistance in rice cv. 9311
Authors: Xiao Cong , Hu Jie , Ao Yi-Ting , Cheng Ming-Xing , Gao Guan-Jun , Zhang Qing-Lu , He Guang-Cun , He Yu-Qing
Published: November 2016

Brown planthopper (BPH) is the most destructive pest of rice in Asia. To date 29 BPH resistance genes have been identified, but only a few genes are being used in breeding due to inefficient markers for marker-assisted selection (MAS) and little knowledge of the real effects of the genes. In this study we individually transferred 13 genes or QTLs (Bph14, QBph3, QBph4, Bph17, Bph15, Bph20, Bph24, Bph6, Bph3, Bph9, Bph10, Bph18 and Bph21) into cultivar 9311 by marker assisted backcross breeding (MABB). Through positive and negative selection we narrowed the segments from donors containing Bph14, Bph15, Bph6 and Bph9 to 100–400 kb. Whole-genome background selection based on a high resolution SNP array was performed to maximize reconstitution of the recurrent parent genome (RPG 99.2–99.9%). All genes reduced BPH growth and development and showed antibiotic responses in seedlings. Based on genetic effects and amino acid sequences of genes in three clusters we inferred that Bph10 and Bph21 might be identical to Bph26, whereas Bph9 and Bph18 were different. Bph15 might be same with Bph17, but QBph4, Bph20 and Bph24 might be different. We believe that these NILs will be useful in rice BPH resistance research and breeding.
Membrane Core-Specific Antimicrobial Action of Cathelicidin LL-37 Peptide Switches Between Pore and Nanofibre Formation
Authors: Shahmiri Mahdi , Enciso Marta , Adda Christopher G. , Smith Brian J. , Perugini Matthew A. , Mechler Adam
Published: November 2016

Membrane-disrupting antimicrobial peptides provide broad-spectrum defence against localized bacterial invasion in a range of hosts including humans. The most generally held consensus is that targeting to pathogens is based on interactions with the head groups of membrane lipids. Here we show that the action of LL-37, a human antimicrobial peptide switches the mode of action based on the structure of the alkyl chains, and not the head groups of the membrane forming lipids. We demonstrate that LL-37 exhibits two distinct interaction pathways: pore formation in bilayers of unsaturated phospholipids and membrane modulation with saturated phospholipids. Uniquely, the membrane modulation yields helical-rich fibrous peptide-lipid superstructures. Our results point at alternative design strategies for peptide antimicrobials.
A SILAC-Based Method for Quantitative Proteomic Analysis of Intestinal Organoids
Authors: Gonneaud Alexis , Jones Christine , Turgeon Naomie , Lévesque Dominique , Asselin Claude , Boudreau François , Boisvert François-Michel
Published: November 2016

Organoids have the potential to bridge 3D cell culture to tissue physiology by providing a model resembling in vivo organs. Long-term growing organoids were first isolated from intestinal crypt cells and recreated the renewing intestinal epithelial niche. Since then, this technical breakthrough was applied to many other organs, including prostate, liver, kidney and pancreas. We describe here how to apply a SILAC-based quantitative proteomic approach to measure protein expression changes in intestinal organoids under different experimental conditions. We generated SILAC organoid media that allow organoids to grow and differentiate normally, and confirmed the incorporation of isotopically labelled amino acids. Furthermore, we used a treatment reported to affect organoid differentiation to demonstrate the reproducibility of the quantification using this approach and to validate the identification of proteins that correlate with the inhibition of cellular growth and development. With the combined use of quantitative mass spectrometry, SILAC and organoid culture, we validated this approach and showed that large-scale proteome variations can be measured in an “organ-like” system.
Free Energy Calculations for Understanding Membrane Receptors
Authors: Pohorille Andrew
Published: November 2016

Free energy is probably the single, most informative quantity that can be obtained from atomistic computer simulations of chemical and biological systems. In this chapter, the basic methods that have been most frequently applied to calculating free energy differences between different states of membrane receptors are outlined. These methods are based on free energy perturbation theory, probability density approaches, and thermodynamic integration. The emphases are on the conceptual connection between different methods and on “good practices” in their applications. A number of techniques, including replica exchange, can be used to enhance sampling of the relevant regions of the configurational space and, by doing so, improve the reliability of calculated free energies. Several illustrative examples in which free energy calculations have been applied to improve our understanding of membrane receptors are presented. They involve binding of anesthetic ligands to receptors, transitions between inactive and active states of receptors, and estimating the ionic conductance from the free energy profile of ions along a channel. They were selected in part to demonstrate the diversity of approaches that can be brought to bear to study membrane receptors computationally.
Computer Simulation of Ion Channels
Authors: Corry Ben
Published: November 2016

Ion channels provide a pathway for charged and polar solutes to cross cell membranes, thereby regulating the electrical excitability of cells and helping to initiate cellular responses. Computer simulations have been an important tool in understanding how this family of proteins work. In this chapter, we describe how simulations have been used to address issues such as how ions move through ion channels, how channels distinguish between ion types, how channels open and close in response to stimuli and how channels can be modulated by drugs and toxins. In doing so, we hope to demonstrate how different simulation approaches can be used to gain a mechanistic understanding of the function of this important protein family.
Use of β-cyclodextrin-tethered cationic polymer based fluorescence enhancement of pyrene and hybridization chain reaction for the enzyme-free amplified detection of DNA
Authors: Song Chunxia , Li Bingjie , Yang Xiaohai , Wang Kemin , Wang Qing , Liu Jianbo , Huang Jin
Published: November 2016

An enzyme-free amplified DNA detection method based on prominent fluorescence enhancement of a β-cyclodextrin-tethered cationic polymer and a hybridization chain reaction was developed.
A simply triggered peptide-based hydrogel as an injectable nanocarrier of tanshinone IIA and tanshinones
Authors: Yin Yajun , Wu Can , Wang Junling , Song Fengjuan , Yue Wanqing , Zhong Wenying
Published: November 2016

An easily self-assembled and gelated octa-peptide FHFDFHFD was chosen as a novel drug delivery system (DDS) for both tanshinone IIA and total tanshinone extract.
Adsorption and diffusion of lithium in a graphene/blue-phosphorus heterostructure and the effect of an external electric field
Authors: Fan Kaimin , Tang Jing , Wu Shiyun , Yang Chengfu , Hao Jiabo
Published: November 2016

The adsorption and diffusion behavior of Li in a G/BP heterostructure can be modulated by an external electric field.
Correlation of annealing time with crystal structure, composition, and electronic properties of CH3NH3PbI3−xClxmixed-halide perovskite films
Authors: Ralaiarisoa Maryline , Busby Yan , Frisch Johannes , Salzmann Ingo , Pireaux Jean-Jacques , Koch Norbert
Published: November 2016

Perovskite films composition evolves from a phase separation into uniform single phase with high preferred crystal orientation upon annealing.
Investigating the behavior of various cocatalysts on LaTaON2 photoanode for visible light water splitting
Authors: Si Wenping , Pergolesi Daniele , Haydous Fatima , Fluri Aline , Wokaun Alexander , Lippert Thomas
Published: November 2016

NiOx, Ni0.7Fe0.3Ox, CoOx and IrOx were loaded as cocatalysts on LaTaON2 photoanode to improve the photoelectrochemical performance for water splitting.
Kinetic evidence: the rate-determining step for ammonia synthesis over electride-supported Ru catalysts is no longer the nitrogen dissociation step
Authors: Kobayashi Yasukazu , Kitano Masaaki , Kawamura Shigeki , Yokoyama Toshiharu , Hosono Hideo
Published: November 2016

The rate-determining step for ammonia synthesis over Ru catalysts supported by electrides, such as [Ca24Al28O64]4+(e−)4 and Ca2N:e−, is suggested to be the surface reactions of N and H adatoms, in which case the Langmuir–Hinshelwood model should be used to describe the kinetics.
Impact of multiwall carbon nanotubes on the accumulation and distribution of carbamazepine in collard greens (Brassica oleracea)
Authors: Deng Yingqing , Eitzer Brian , White Jason C. , Xing Baoshan
Published: November 2016

Pre-existing pharmaceutical residues in agricultural soils may encounter engineered nanomaterials, resulting in poorly understood co-contamination interactions.
Evaluation of pollutant removal efficiency of a bioretention basin and implications for stormwater management in tropical cities
Authors: Wang Jia , Chua Lloyd H. C. , Shanahan Peter
Published: November 2016

Field-scale bioretention basin performance in treating a full suite of nutrients is critically evaluated in the data-scarce tropics.
Development of solid-state emissive o-carboranes and theoretical investigation of the mechanism of the aggregation-induced emission behaviors of organoboron “element-blocks”
Authors: Tanaka Kazuo , Nishino Kenta , Ito Shunichiro , Yamane Honami , Suenaga Kazumasa , Hashimoto Kazushi , Chujo Yoshiki
Published: November 2016

This paper presents the aggregation-induced emission (AIE) properties of o-carborane derivatives and proposes a potential strategy for constructing AIE-active organoboron complexes via the enhancement of freedom of intramolecular mobility. Initially, the optical properties of o-carborane derivatives with or without the fused ring structure at the C–C bond in o-carborane in which elongation should be induced by photo-excitation according to theoretical calculations were compared. Accordingly, it was shown that large mobility at the C–C bond in o-carborane should be responsible for the annihilation of emission in solution, leading to the AIE property. From this result, it was presumed that by enhancing the freedom of intramolecular mobility in conventional luminescent organoboron complexes, the deactivation of the excited state in solution and emission recovery in the aggregate can be induced. Based on this idea, we have performed several studies and introduce two representative results. Firstly, the decrease in luminescent properties of boron dipyrromethene (BODIPY) in solution by introducing a movable functional group is explained. Next, the AIE behaviors of boron ketoiminates and the potential mechanism concerning conformational changes for the deactivation of the excited state in the solution state are illustrated. It is proposed that enhancement of the freedom of mobility in the excited state of luminescent organoboron complexes could be a potential strategy for realizing AIE behaviors.
Mechanistic insight into the acid-catalyzed isomerization of biomass-derived polysubstituted pyrrolidines: an experimental and DFT study
Authors: Gerosa Gabriela G. , Grimblat Nicolás , Spanevello Rolando A. , Suárez Alejandra G. , Sarotti Ariel M.
Published: November 2016

The mechanism of the acid-catalyzed isomerization of polysubstituted pyrrolidines was unravelled by a combination of experimental, spectroscopic and computational studies.
Isoselective mechanism of the ring-opening polymerization of rac-lactide catalyzed by chiral potassium binolates
Authors: Cui Yaqin , Chen Changjuan , Sun Yangyang , Wu Jincai , Pan Xiaobo
Published: November 2016

A chain end control mechanism for the isoselective ring-opening polymerization of rac-lactide catalyzed by potassium complexes was proven via three different methods.
Determination of p-aminohippuric acid with β-cyclodextrin sensitized fluorescence spectrometry
Authors: Alremeithi Rashed H. , Meetani Mohammed A. , Mousa Mu'ath K. , Saleh Na'il I. , Graham John
Published: November 2016

Sensitive spectrofluorometric and HPLC with fluorescence detection methods have been developed for detection and determination of para-aminohippuric acid (a marker used for estimating effective renal plasma flow) in the presence of β-cyclodextrin.
Mesoporous carbonated hydroxyapatite/chitosan porous materials for removal of Pb(ii) ions under flow conditions
Authors: Wen Xi , Shao Chun-Tao , Chen Wei , Lei Yong , Ke Qin-Fei , Guo Ya-Ping
Published: November 2016

Mesoporous carbonated hydroxyapatite/chitosan porous materials are fabricated for the first time, which show good adsorption properties for Pb(ii) ions even under flow conditions.
Microporous organic polymers based on tetraethynyl building blocks with N-functionalized pore surfaces: synthesis, porosity and carbon dioxide sorption
Authors: Zhang Hongjiang , Zhang Chong , Wang Xunchang , Qiu Zexiong , Liang Xinmiao , Chen Bing , Xu Jiawei , Jiang Jia-Xing , Li Yuda , Li Hui , Wang Feng
Published: November 2016

We have synthesized nitrogen-rich polymers by copolymerization of tetraethynyl monomers with tris(4-iodophenyl)amine or 4,4′-diiodoazobenzene. Azobenzene-based polymers exhibited excellent CO2 adsorption selectivity against N2.
Synthesis, characterization and electrochemical evaluation of mixed oxides of nickel and cobalt from spent lithium-ion cells
Authors: Sandhya C. P. , John Bibin , Gouri C.
Published: November 2016

A simple and easy strategy for the synthesis of mixed oxides of Ni and Co from spent Li-ion cell cathodes based on LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 (LNCAO) active material is presented here.
Zeylenone promotes apoptosis in chronic myelogenous leukemia-derived K562 cells by a mechanism involving Jak2 and Src kinase
Authors: Huo Xiaowei , Liao Yonghong , Tian Yu , Gao Li , Cao Li
Published: November 2016

Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) is a hematopoietic malignancy caused by the constitutive activation of BCR–ABL tyrosine kinase.
Dual signal amplification by an “on-command” pure DNA hydrogel encapsulating HRP for colorimetric detection of ochratoxin A
Authors: Zhou Lu , Sun Na , Xu Lijun , Chen Xing , Cheng Hui , Wang Jine , Pei Renjun
Published: November 2016

A pure DNA hydrogel, consisting of two kinds of Y-scaffold nucleic acid subunits and the aptamer domain of ochratoxin A, undergoes a switchable gel-to-sol transition in the presence of ochratoxin A.
One-step immobilization antibodies using ferrocene-containing thiol aromatic aldehyde for the fabrication of a label-free electrochemical immunosensor
Authors: Liu Xiaoying , Li Qiang , Chen Lijuan , Zhou Jiheng , Liu Meiling , Shen Youming
Published: November 2016

This work focuses on a facile method for antibody immobilization to fabricate a label-free electrochemical immunosensor using ferrocene-containing thiol aromatic aldehyde (FcSA) synthesized by us.
High oxygen reduction activity on a metal–organic framework derived carbon combined with high degree of graphitization and pyridinic-N dopants
Authors: Li Liangjun , Dai Pengcheng , Gu Xin , Wang Ying , Yan Liting , Zhao Xuebo
Published: November 2016

A type of metal–organic framework derived carbon combined with high density of pyridinic-N dopants and high degree of graphitization was prepared for effective oxygen reduction.
Synthesis of few-layer 1T′-MoTe2 ultrathin nanosheets for high-performance pseudocapacitors
Authors: Liu Ming , Wang Zhaojie , Liu Junxue , Wei Guijuan , Du Jiao , Li Yanpeng , An Changhua , Zhang Jun
Published: November 2016

A colloidal chemical strategy has been developed for the synthesis of ultrathin 1T′-MoTe2 nanosheets, showing an enhanced supercapacitor performance.
Highly efficient thermogenesis from Fe3O4 nanoparticles for thermoplastic material repair both in air and underwater
Authors: Yin Xiangyu , Zhang Yue , Lin Peng , Liu Yupeng , Wang Zuankai , Yu Bo , Zhou Feng , Xue Qunji
Published: November 2016

A robust photothermal healing method relies on the NIR photothermal effect of Fe3O4 NPs in the matrix. It allows thermoplastic materials and coatings to be repaired in air, and the coatings to be repaired more effectively underwater.
Morphogenesis of cement hydrate
Authors: Moghaddam Sakineh E. , Hejazi Vahid , Hwang Sung Hoon , Sreenivasan Sreeprasad , Miller Joseph , Shi Benhang , Zhao Shuo , Rusakova Irene , Alizadeh Aali R. , Whitmire Kenton H. , Shahsavari Rouzbeh
Published: November 2016

As the most widely used synthetic material on the planet, concrete poses a serious societal concern regarding its significant environmental footprint.
A superhydrophobic manhole for drops
Authors: Kim Chung Dwayne Chung , Huynh So Hung , Wang Shufen , Jiang Xuchuan , Liew Oi Wah , Muradoglu Murat , Ng Tuck Wah
Published: November 2016

An evaporative pre-concentration method towards environmental monitoring for sustainability working in an energy conserving manner.
Plasmon resonance enhanced colloidal HgSe quantum dot filterless narrowband photodetectors for mid-wave infrared
Authors: Tang Xin , Wu Guang fu , Lai King Wai Chiu
Published: November 2016

HgSe CQD based narrowband photodetectors with plasmonic nano-disk arrays were developed for the detection of mid-wave infrared.