bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of methylisothiazolinone and methylchloroisothiazolinone in cosmetic products by ultra high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Wittenberg James B. , Canas Benjamin J. , Zhou Wanlong , Wang Perry G. , Rua Diego , Krynitsky Alexander J.
Published: June 2015

Isothiazolinone biocides are broad‐spectrum preservatives that are widely used in cosmetics, household, and industrial products. An increase in the number of cases of allergic contact dermatitis to isothiazolinone preservatives, namely, methylisothiazolinone and methylchloroisothiazolinone, have been recently noticed. The Food and Drug Administration relies on analytical methods to quantify levels of use of cosmetic ingredients and support enforcement action against products that are not in compliance with the law. In this study, an efficient ultra high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry method was developed and validated for the determination of methylisothiazolinone and methylchloroisothiazolinone in selected cosmetic products. The lower limit of quantitation was determined to be 0.1 μg/g for both preservatives. A survey of 24 cosmetic products was conducted and found concentrations of methylisothiazolinone and methylchloroisothiazolinone ranging from not quantified, or below the lower limit of quantitation, to 89.64 μg/g and not quantified to 10.31 μg/g, respectively.
Hydrolysis‐Sensitive Dithiolethione Prodrug Micelles
Authors: Hasegawa Urara , Tateishi Naoya , Uyama Hiroshi , van der Vlies André J.
Published: June 2015

Prodrug micelles carrying 5‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl)‐3H‐1,2‐dithiole‐3‐thione (ADT‐OH), a compound possessing chemopreventive properties, are prepared from amphiphilic block copolymers linking ADT‐OH via an ester bond using glycine (PAM‐PGlyADT) and isoleucine linkers (PAM‐PIleADT). The release of ADT‐OH from the PAM‐PIleADT micelles is much slower than the PAM‐PGlyADT micelles. The PAM‐PGlyADT micelles show comparable toxicity with ADT‐OH in different cancer cell lines, whereas the PAM‐PIleADT micelles are not toxic up to 400 µM. This ADT‐ester prodrug micelle approach enables to modulate the release rate of ADT‐OH and thus might find application in cancer therapy and prevention.
Probing the Mucoadhesive Interactions Between Porcine Gastric Mucin and Some Water‐Soluble Polymers
Authors: Albarkah Yasser A. , Green Rebecca J. , Khutoryanskiy Vitaliy V.
Published: June 2015

This study investigates the structural features of porcine gastric mucin (PGM) in aqueous dispersions and its interactions with water‐soluble polymers (poly(acrylic acid) (PAA), poly(methacrylic acid) (PMAA), poly(ethylene oxide), and poly(ethylene glycol)) using isothermal titration calorimetry, turbidimetric titration, dynamic light scattering, and transmission electron microscopy. It is established that PAA (450 kDa) and PMAA (100 kDa) exhibit strong specific interactions with PGM causing further aggregation of its particles, while PAA (2 kDa), poly(ethylene oxide) (1 000 kDa), and poly(ethylene glycol) (10 kDa) do not show any detectable effects on mucin. Sonication of mucin dispersions prior to their mixing with PAA (450 kDa) and PMAA (100 kDa) leads to more pronounced intensity of interactions.
Zinc‐containing yeast extract promotes nonrapid eye movement sleep in mice
Authors: Cherasse Yoan , Saito Hitomi , Nagata Nanae , Aritake Kosuke , Lazarus Michael , Urade Yoshihiro
Published: June 2015

Zinc is an essential trace element for humans and animals, being located, among other places, in the synaptic vesicles of cortical glutamatergic neurons and hippocampal mossy fibers in the brain. Extracellular zinc has the potential to interact with and modulate many different synaptic targets, including glutamate and GABA receptors. Because of the central role of these neurotransmitters in brain activity, we examined in this study the sleep‐promoting activity of zinc by monitoring locomotor activity and electroencephalogram after its administration to mice. Zinc‐containing yeast extract (40 and 80 mg/kg) dose dependently increased the total amount of nonrapid eye movement sleep and decreased the locomotor activity. However, this preparation did not change the amount of rapid eye movement sleep or show any adverse effects such as rebound of insomnia during a period of 24 h following the induction of sleep; whereas the extracts containing other divalent cations (manganese, iron, and copper) did not decrease the locomotor activity. This is the first evidence that zinc can induce sleep. Our data open the way to new types of food supplements designed to improve sleep.
Weatherability of conventional and nanocomposites of LDPE and Zinc Oxide
Authors: Redhwi Halim Hamid , Siddiqui Mohammad Nahid , Andrady Anthony L. , Muhammad Younas , Syed Hussain
Published: June 2015

LDPE thermoplastic composites prepared using 1–4 wt% of conventional filler‐grade ZnO and nanoscale ZnO were investigated to determine whether the presence of either grade of filler affected the weatherability of the composite material. Outdoor exposure (natural weathering) studies and accelerated weathering was performed and tensile properties were used to assess the weather‐induced damage. Weatherability under outdoor exposure and under laboratory‐ accelerated conditions, primarily quantified using tensile properties, were found to be the same for composites with conventional and nanoscale ZnO filler. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:341–348, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
PSYCHOLOGICAL, BEHAVIORAL, AND EDUCATIONAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR CHILDREN WITH CLASSIFIED DISABILITIES AND DIABETES WITHIN THE SCHOOL SETTING
Authors: Wyckoff Leah , Hanchon Timothy , Gregg S. Renee
Published: June 2015

School nurses are answering a call to action to provide day‐to‐day care for an increasing number of students diagnosed with chronic illnesses. Diabetes mellitus is one of the most prevalent chronic health conditions identified among school‐age children and presents a host of complex challenges for the school nurse, educators, and other support personnel to address in an effort to keep these children healthy and optimally prepared to learn. In working with this student population, it is critical that all educators possess an adequate working knowledge of type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus. This article provides a comprehensive overview of diabetes, including common measures and provisions necessary for managing students’ daily needs, associated conditions that may compromise aspects of psychosocial and academic functioning, and commonly used medications and treatment plans for diabetes, with consideration for impact on students’ daily school routines. Additionally, diabetes is reviewed within the context of multiple disabling conditions, with an emphasis on the psychological and behavioral features. Guidance and recommendations are offered to adequately prepare and position school nurses and other school‐based personnel to fully support the student with diabetes in the school setting.
Synthesis, Characterization, and thermoresponsive properties of Helical Polypeptides Derivatized from Poly(γ−4‐(3‐chloropropoxycarbonyl)benzyl‐L‐glutamate)
Authors: Deng Yong , Wang Xi , Yuan Qiulin , Zhu Mengxiang , Ling Ying , Tang Haoyu
Published: June 2015

A series of side‐chain‐functionalized α‐helical polypeptides, i.e., poly(γ‐4‐(3‐chloropropoxycarbonyl)benzyl‐L‐glutamate) (6) have been prepared from n‐butylamine initiated ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of γ‐4‐(3‐chloropropoxycarbonyl)benzyl‐L‐glutamic acid‐based N‐carboxyanhydride. Polypeptides bearing oligo‐ethylene‐glycol (OEG) groups or 1‐butylimidazolium salts were prepared from 6 via copper‐mediated [2+3] alkyne‐azide 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition or nuleophilic substitution, respectively. CD and FTIR analysis revealed that the polymers adopt α‐helical conformations both in solution and the solid state. Polymers bearing OEG (m = 3) side‐chains showed reversible LCST‐type phase transition behaviors in water while polymers bearing 1‐butylimidazolium and I− counter‐anions exhibited reversible UCST‐type transitions in water. Variable‐temperature UV‐vis analysis revealed that the phase transition temperatures (Tpts) were dependent on the main‐chain length and polymeric concentration. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2015, 53, 2469–2480
Synthesis, Structure, and Magnetic Properties of a Mn4 Cluster derived from Benzimidazole‐Alcohol Ligands
Authors: Wang Feng , Ding Yu , Guo Liangui , Du Jun , Zhang Xiaowen
Published: June 2015

The synthesis, crystal structure, and magnetic properties of a [MnIII3MnII(μ3‐O)(mbp)3(OAc)3]·4H2O (1) [H2mbp = 2‐(1H‐benzimidazol‐2‐yl)‐2‐ methylpropane‐1,3‐diol] cluster are reported herein. Mn ions in compound 1 have a tetrahedron topology. Solid‐state direct current and alternating current magnetic susceptibility measurements on compound 1 reveal a ground state with ST = 7/2 as well as the probable single‐molecule magnetic behavior.
Crystal and Electronic Structure of Y5Al3C4
Authors: Kotyrba Martin R. , Cuervo‐Reyes Eduardo , Nesper Reinhard
Published: June 2015

The novel ternary aluminum carbide Y5Al3C4 was synthesized using lithium metal as flux at high temperature (1523 K). Single‐crystal structure determination of the title compound revealed a new structure type with the Wyckoff‐sequence jhg2da. Y5Al3C4 crystallizes in the tetragonal space group P4/mbm (no. 127) with Z = 2 and lattice parameters a = 10.8442(11) and c = 3.5234(4) Å. The compound has metallic appearance and shows remarkable structural features at the border between intermetallics and Zintl phases. The electronic band structure and the electron localization function (ELF) were calculated, both of which support the view of the infinite 1∞[C–(Al–C)–]6– chain as a Zintl‐type anion containing aluminum and carbon. Surface cuts of the ELF also disclose intermetallic features such as yttrium‐assisted Al–Al (or multicenter) bonds in the aluminum substructure. Possible views of the charge partitioning are discussed.
Reactivity of an Octanuclear Copper(I) Siloxide Compound – Isolation of a Copper(II) Oxo Compound with a Supertetrahedral Core
Authors: Schax Fabian , Limberg Christian
Published: June 2015

The reactivity of the octanuclear copper(I) siloxide compound [L4Cu8], (1) (L2– = –OPh2SiOSiPh2O–), towards external substrates was tested. In the presence of N‐donor molecules like acetonitrile and propionitrile 1 decomposes with formation of cyclic siloxane rings. Contact with 2,2′‐bipyridine (bipy) leads to the formation of a mixed valent tricopper complex [L2Cu3(bipy)2], (3), which likely represents an intermediate of the disproportion of 1 to elemental copper and a mononuclear copper(II) complex [LCu1(bipy)], (2), which was isolated and characterized as the final product. The addition of O2 to 1 leads to an unprecedented supertetrahedral copper(II) complex [L6Cu10(μ4‐O)4(MeCN)4], (4), that incorporates four μ4‐oxido ligands. The structural parameters for compounds 2–4 were elucidated by single‐crystal X‐ray crystallography.
Differential Diagnosis of Colonic Strictures: Pictorial Review with Illustrations from Computed Tomography Colonography
Authors: Wan Daniel , Bruni Silvio G. , Dufton John A. , O'Brien Paul
Published: June 2015

Strictures of the colon can lead to significant morbidity requiring surgical management. The etiology of strictures is broad and generally categorized as benign, malignant, or pseudostrictures. Computed tomography (CT) is a crucial imaging modality in the assessment and characterization of colonic pathologies but colonoscopy remains the diagnostic gold standard. However, in the setting of incomplete colonoscopy due to strictures, the imaging features of CT will be relied on. This review will focus on the CT features of different colon pathologies leading to strictures and will be illustrated with images from 10 years of experience with CT colonography at our institutions from 2002-2012 (Hotel Dieu Hospital, Queen's University and Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto).
Radiology of Osteoporosis
Authors: Link Thomas M.
Published: June 2015

The radiologist has a number of roles not only in diagnosing but also in treating osteoporosis. Radiologists diagnose fragility fractures with all imaging modalities, which includes magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrating radiologically occult insufficiency fractures, but also lateral chest radiographs showing asymptomatic vertebral fractures. In particular MRI fragility fractures may have a nonspecific appearance and the radiologists needs to be familiar with the typical locations and findings, to differentiate these fractures from neoplastic lesions. It should be noted that radiologists do not simply need to diagnose fractures related to osteoporosis but also to diagnose those fractures which are complications of osteoporosis related pharmacotherapy. In addition to using standard radiological techniques radiologists also use dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and quantitative computed tomography (QCT) to quantitatively assess bone mineral density for diagnosing osteoporosis or osteopenia as well as to monitor therapy. DXA measurements of the femoral neck are also used to calculate osteoporotic fracture risk based on the Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) score, which is universally available. Some of the new technologies such as high-resolution peripheral computed tomography (HR-pQCT) and MR spectroscopy allow assessment of bone architecture and bone marrow composition to characterize fracture risk. Finally radiologists are also involved in the therapy of osteoporotic fractures by using vertebroplasty, kyphoplasty, and sacroplasty. This review article will focus on standard techniques and new concepts in diagnosing and managing osteoporosis.
Reported and Intended Behaviour Towards Those With Mental Health Problems in the Czech Republic and England
Authors: Winkler P. , Csémy L. , Janoušková M. , Mladá K. , Bankovská Motlová L. , Evans-Lacko S.
Published: June 2015

This is one of the first studies, which compares the level of stigmatizing behaviour in countries that used to be on the opposite sides of the Iron Curtain. The aim was to identify the prevalence of reported and intended stigmatizing behaviour towards those with mental health problems in the Czech Republic and to compare these findings with the findings from England. The 8-item Reported and Intended Behaviour Scale (RIBS) was used to assess stigmatising behaviour among a representative sample of the Czech population (n = 1797). Results were compared with the findings of an analogous survey from England (n = 1720), which also used the RIBS. The extent of reported behaviour (i.e., past and present experiences with those with mental health problems) was lower in the Czech Republic than in England. While 12.7% of Czechs reported that they lived, 12.9% that they worked, and 15.3% that they were acquainted with someone who had mental health problems, the respective numbers for England were 18.5%, 26.3% and 32.5% (P < 0.001 in each of these items). On the other hand, the extent of intended stigmatizing behaviour towards those with mental health problems is considerably higher in the Czech Republic. Out of maximum 20 points attached to possible responses to the RIBS items 5–8, Czechs had a lower total score (x = 11.0, SD = 4.0) compared to English respondents (x = 16.1, SD = 3.6), indicating lower willingness to accept a person with mental health problems (P < 0.001). The prevalence of stigmatizing behaviour in the Czech Republic is worrying. Both, further research and evidence based anti-stigma interventions, should be pursued in order to better understand and decrease stigmatizing behaviour in the Czech Republic and possibly across the post-communist countries in Central and Eastern Europe.
The C‐terminal α‐helix of YsxC is essential for its binding to 50S ribosome and rRNAs
Authors: Wicker-Planquart Catherine , Ceres Nicoletta , Jault Jean-Michel
Published: June 2015

YsxC is an essential P‐loop GTPase that interacts with the 50S subunit of the ribosome. The putative implication in ribosome binding of two basic clusters of YsxC, a conserved positively charged patch including R31, R116, H117 and K146 lying adjacent to the nucleotide‐binding site, and the C‐terminal alpha helix, was investigated. C‐terminal truncation variants of YsxC were unable to bind to both ribosome and rRNAs, whereas mutations in the other cluster did not affect YsxC binding. Our results indicate that the basic C‐terminal region of YsxC is required for its binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit.
Entropic clocks in the service of electrical signaling: ‘Ball and chain’ mechanisms for ion channel inactivation and clustering
Authors: Zandany Nitzan , Lewin Limor , Nirenberg Valerie , Orr Irit , Yifrach Ofer
Published: June 2015

Electrical signaling in the nervous system relies on action potential generation, propagation and transmission. Such processes are dynamic in nature and rely on precisely timed events associated with voltage‐dependent ion channel conformational transitions between their primary open, closed and inactivated states and clustering at unique membrane sites. In voltage‐dependent potassium (Kv) channels, fast inactivation and clustering processes rely on entropic clock chains as described by ‘ball and chain’ mechanisms, suggesting important roles for such chains in electrical signaling. Here, we consider evidence supporting the proposed ‘ball and chain’ mechanisms for Kv channel fast inactivation and clustering associated with intrinsically disorderedN‐ andC‐terminal regions of the protein, respectively. Based on this comparison, we delineate the requirements that argue for such a process and establish the thermodynamic signature of a ‘ball and chain’ mechanism. Finally, we demonstrate how ‘chain’‐level alternative splicing of the Kv channel gene modulates the entropic clock‐based ‘ball and chain’ inactivation and clustering channel functions underlying changes in electrical signaling. As such, the Kv channel model system exemplifies how linkage between alternative splicing and intrinsic disorder enables functional diversity.
Cep70 regulates microtubule stability by interacting with HDAC6
Authors: Shi Xingjuan , Yao Yanjun , Wang Yujue , Zhang Yu , Huang Qinghai , Zhou Jun , Liu Min , Li Dengwen
Published: June 2015

Microtubules, highly dynamic components of the cytoskeleton, are involved in mitosis, cell migration and intracellular trafficking. Our previous work has shown that the centrosomal protein Cep70 regulates microtubule organization and mitotic spindle orientation in mammalian cells. However, it remains elusive whether Cep70 is implicated in microtubule stability. Here we demonstrate that Cep70 enhances microtubule resistance to cold or nocodazole treatment. Our data further show that Cep70 promotes microtubule stability by regulating tubulin acetylation, and plays an important role in stabilizing microtubules. Mechanistic studies reveal that Cep70 interacts and colocalizes with histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) in the cytoplasm. These findings suggest that Cep70 promotes microtubule stability by interaction with HDAC6 and regulation of tubulin acetylation.
2D DIGE proteomic analysis highlights delayed postnatal repression of α‐fetoprotein expression in homocystinuria model mice
Authors: Kamata Shotaro , Akahoshi Noriyuki , Ishii Isao
Published: June 2015

Cystathionine β‐synthase‐deficient (Cbs−/−) mice, an animal model for homocystinuria, exhibit hepatic steatosis and juvenile semilethality via as yet unknown mechanisms. The plasma protein profile ofCbs−/− mice was investigated by proteomic analysis using two‐dimensional difference gel electrophoresis and matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization‐time of flight/mass spectrometry. We found hyperaccumulation of α‐fetoprotein (AFP) and downregulation of most other plasma proteins. AFP was highly expressed in fetal liver, but its expression declined dramatically via transcriptional repression after birth in both wild‐type andCbs−/− mice. However, the repression was delayed inCbs−/− mice, causing high postnatal AFP levels, which may relate to transcriptional repression of most plasma proteins originating from liver and the observed hepatic dysfunction.
Availability, Cost or Culture? Obstacles to Childcare Services for Low-Income Families
Authors: ABRASSART AURÉLIEN , BONOLI GIULIANO
Published: June 2015

Recent research has highlighted the existence of a social bias in the extent to which children have access to childcare. In general, children living in higher income households are more likely to be cared for in childcare centres. While the existence of a social bias in access to childcare services has been clearly demonstrated, we currently lack a clear explanation as to why this is the case. This paper uses a unique dataset based on survey data collected specifically to study patterns of childcare use in the Swiss canton of Vaud (N = 875). The paper exploits the variation in the way childcare is organised within the canton. Childcare is a municipal policy, as a result of which there are twenty-nine different systems in operation. Fees are progressive everywhere, but variation is substantial. Availability is also very different. This peculiar institutional setup provides an ideal situation to examine the determinants of childcare use by different income groups. Our findings suggest that differences in the fees charged to low-income households, as well as the degree of progressivity of the fee structure, are significant predictors of use, while availability seems to matter less.
SHRINKAGE ESTIMATION OF REGRESSION MODELS WITH MULTIPLE STRUCTURAL CHANGES
Authors: Qian Junhui , Su Liangjun
Published: June 2015

In this paper, we consider the problem of determining the number of structural changes in multiple linear regression models via group fused Lasso. We show that with probability tending to one, our method can correctly determine the unknown number of breaks, and the estimated break dates are sufficiently close to the true break dates. We obtain estimates of the regression coefficients via post Lasso and establish the asymptotic distributions of the estimates of both break ratios and regression coefficients. We also propose and validate a data-driven method to determine the tuning parameter. Monte Carlo simulations demonstrate that the proposed method works well in finite samples. We illustrate the use of our method with a predictive regression of the equity premium on fundamental information.
Medical and Disaster Preparedness of US Marathons
Authors: Glick Joshua , Rixe Jeffrey , Spurkeland Nancy , Brady Jodi , Silvis Matthew , Olympia Robert P.
Published: June 2015

Background

Despite the events that occurred at the 2013 Boston Marathon (Boston, Massachusetts USA), there are currently no evidence-based guidelines or published data regarding medical and disaster preparedness of marathon races in the United States.

Purpose

To determine the current state of medical disaster preparedness of marathons in the US and to identify potential areas for improvement.

Methods

A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted from January through May of 2014. The questionnaire was distributed to race directors of US road and trail marathons, as identified by a comprehensive internet database.

Results

One hundred twenty-three questionnaires were available for analysis (19% usable response rate). Marathon races from all major regions of the US were represented. Runner medical information was not listed on race bibs in 53% of races. Only 45% of races held group training and planning sessions prior to race day. Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) were immediately available on 50% of courses, and medications such as albuterol (30%), oxygen (33%), and IV fluids (34%) were available less frequently. Regarding medical emergencies, 55% of races did not have protocols for the assessment of dehydration, asthma, chest pain, syncope, or exercise-induced cramping. With regard to disaster preparedness, 50% of races did not have protocols for the management of disasters, and 21% did not provide security personnel at start/finish lines, aid stations, road crossings, and drop bag locations.

Conclusions

Areas for improvement in the preparedness of US marathons were identified, such as including printed medical information on race bibs, increasing pre-race training and planning sessions for volunteers, ensuring the immediate availability of certain emergency equipment and medications, and developing written protocols for specific emergencies and disasters.

GlickJRixeJASpurkelandNBradyJSilvisMOlympiaRP. Medical and disaster preparedness of US marathons. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2015;30(4):1–7.
Exploring the scope for transboundary collaboration in the Blue Nile river basin: downstream willingness to pay for upstream land use changes to improve irrigation water supply
Authors: Tesfaye Abonesh , Brouwer Roy
Published: June 2015

In this study we model the preferences and willingness to pay (WTP) of downstream farmers in one of the largest irrigation schemes worldwide in Sudan for improved irrigation water supply through transboundary collaboration with farmers upstream in Ethiopia. In a choice experiment, Sudanese farmers are asked to pay an increase in existing irrigation fees to secure future irrigation water availability by either enhancing the removal of sediments in their local irrigation channels or compensating farmers in the Ethiopian highlands for taking soil conservation measures to prevent land degradation and soil erosion. Although Sudanese farmers downstream do not feel very connected to farmers upstream in Ethiopia, we find a high degree of trust in international cooperation and a positive WTP for improved irrigation water supply and water use efficiency through transboundary collaboration.
Sexual Cognitions in Victims of Childhood and Adolescence/Adulthood Sexual Abuse
Authors: Moyano Nieves , Sierra Juan Carlos
Published: June 2015

This study explored the relationship between 1) child sexual abuse (CSA), adolescent/adult sexual abuse (AASA), and both (CSA+AASA), and 2) the frequency of positive and negative sexual cognitions according to their content –intimate, exploratory, dominance, submission, and impersonal– in men and women. We also analyzed the severity of the sexual contact of individuals who had experienced AASA. We assessed a Spanish sample of 228 men and 333 women, aged between 18 and 50 years old. In the sample, 341 individuals reported having experienced some type of sexual victimization (victims group), while 220 individuals reported no victimization (non-victims group). Overall, sexual victims reported a higher frequency of positive sexual cognitions compared to non-victims, particularly when they had experienced CSA+AASA and the severity of the sexual contact was greater. Men and women who had experienced abuse reported a higher frequency of exploratory cognitions (p < .01). Male victims reported more cognitions of submission (p < .01), whereas female victims reported more cognitions of dominance (p < .05), which indicates lack of congruence with traditional gender roles. Finally, only intimate cognitions (p < .001) were experienced as negative by male victims. We discuss the relevance of the findings for therapeutic interventions with sexual abuse victims.
PI3K-C2γ is a Rab5 effector selectively controlling endosomal Akt2 activation downstream of insulin signalling
Authors: Braccini Laura , Ciraolo Elisa , Campa Carlo C. , Perino Alessia , Longo Dario L. , Tibolla Gianpaolo , Pregnolato Marco , Cao Yanyan , Tassone Beatrice , Damilano Federico , Laffargue Muriel , Calautti Enzo , Falasca Marco , Norata Giuseppe D. , Backer Jonathan M. , Hirsch Emilio
Published: June 2015

In the liver, insulin-mediated activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway is at the core of metabolic control. Multiple PI3K and Akt isoenzymes are found in hepatocytes and whether isoform-selective interplays exist is currently unclear. Here we report that insulin signalling triggers the association of the liver-specific class II PI3K isoform γ (PI3K-C2γ) with Rab5-GTP, and its recruitment to Rab5-positive early endosomes. In these vesicles, PI3K-C2γ produces a phosphatidylinositol-3,4-bisphosphate pool specifically required for delayed and sustained endosomal Akt2 stimulation. Accordingly, loss of PI3K-C2γ does not affect insulin-dependent Akt1 activation as well as S6K and FoxO1-3 phosphorylation, but selectively reduces Akt2 activation, which specifically inhibits glycogen synthase activity. As a consequence, PI3K-C2γ-deficient mice display severely reduced liver accumulation of glycogen and develop hyperlipidemia, adiposity as well as insulin resistance with age or after consumption of a high-fat diet. Our data indicate PI3K-C2γ supports an isoenzyme-specific forking of insulin-mediated signal transduction to an endosomal pool of Akt2, required for glucose homeostasis.
Arbitrary lattice symmetries via block copolymer nanomeshes
Authors: Majewski Pawel W. , Rahman Atikur , Black Charles T. , Yager Kevin G.
Published: June 2015

Self-assembly of block copolymers is a powerful motif for spontaneously forming well-defined nanostructures over macroscopic areas. Yet, the inherent energy minimization criteria of self-assembly give rise to a limited library of structures; diblock copolymers naturally form spheres on a cubic lattice, hexagonally packed cylinders and alternating lamellae. Here, we demonstrate multicomponent nanomeshes with any desired lattice symmetry. We exploit photothermal annealing to rapidly order and align block copolymer phases over macroscopic areas, combined with conversion of the self-assembled organic phase into inorganic replicas. Repeated photothermal processing independently aligns successive layers, providing full control of the size, symmetry and composition of the nanoscale unit cell. We construct a variety of symmetries, most of which are not natively formed by block copolymers, including squares, rhombuses, rectangles and triangles. In fact, we demonstrate all possible two-dimensional Bravais lattices. Finally, we elucidate the influence of nanostructure on the electrical and optical properties of nanomeshes.
Prognostic significance of kynurenine 3-monooxygenase and effects on proliferation, migration and invasion of human hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Jin Haojie , Zhang Yurong , You Haiyan , Tao Xuemei , Wang Cun , Jin Guangzhi , Wang Ning , Ruan Haoyu , Gu Dishui , Huo Xisong , Cong Wenming , Qin Wenxin
Published: June 2015

Kynurenine 3-monooxygenase (KMO) is a pivotal enzyme in the kynurenine pathway of tryptophan degradation and plays a critical role in Huntington’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. This study aimed to examine the expression of KMO in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and investigate the relationship between its expression and prognosis of HCC patients. We first analyzed KMO expression in 120 paired HCC samples (HCC tissues vs matched adjacent non-cancerous liver tissues) and 205 clinical HCC specimens using immunohistochemistry (IHC). Kaplan-Meier survival and Cox regression analyses were executed to evaluate the prognosis of HCC. The results of IHC analysis showed that KMO expression was significantly higher in HCC tissues than that in normal liver tissues (all p < 0.05). Survival and recurrence analyses showed that KMO was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival (OS) and time to recurrence (TTR) (both p<0.01). And in vitro studies revealed that KMO positively regulated proliferation, migration and invasion of HCC cells. These results suggest that KMO exhibits tumor-promoting effects towards HCC and it may serve as a novel prognostic marker in HCC.
Reassortment and distinct evolutionary dynamics of Rift Valley Fever virus genomic segments
Authors: Freire Caio C. M. , Iamarino Atila , Soumaré Peinda O. Ly , Faye Ousmane , Sall Amadou A. , Zanotto Paolo M. A.
Published: June 2015

Rift Valley Fever virus (RVFV) is a member of Bunyaviridae family that causes a febrile disease affecting mainly ruminants and occasionally humans in Africa, with symptoms that range from mid to severe. RVFV has a tri-segmented ssRNA genome that permits reassortment and could generate more virulent strains. In this study, we reveal the importance of reassortment for RVFV evolution using viral gene genealogy inference and phylodynamics. We uncovered seven events of reassortment that originated RVFV lineages with discordant origins among segments. Moreover, we also found that despite similar selection regimens, the three segments have distinct evolutionary dynamics; the longer segment L evolves at a significant lower rate. Episodes of discordance between population size estimates per segment also coincided with reassortment dating. Our results show that RVFV segments are decoupled enough to have distinct demographic histories and to evolve under different molecular rates.
Ionizing air affects influenza virus infectivity and prevents airborne-transmission
Authors: Hagbom Marie , Nordgren Johan , Nybom Rolf , Hedlund Kjell-Olof , Wigzell Hans , Svensson Lennart
Published: June 2015

By the use of a modified ionizer device we describe effective prevention of airborne transmitted influenza A (strain Panama 99) virus infection between animals and inactivation of virus (>97%). Active ionizer prevented 100% (4/4) of guinea pigs from infection. Moreover, the device effectively captured airborne transmitted calicivirus, rotavirus and influenza virus, with recovery rates up to 21% after 40 min in a 19 m3 room. The ionizer generates negative ions, rendering airborne particles/aerosol droplets negatively charged and electrostatically attracts them to a positively charged collector plate. Trapped viruses are then identified by reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR. The device enables unique possibilities for rapid and simple removal of virus from air and offers possibilities to simultaneously identify and prevent airborne transmission of viruses.
Metabolomics reveals impaired maturation of HDL particles in adolescents with hyperinsulinaemic androgen excess
Authors: Samino Sara , Vinaixa Maria , Díaz Marta , Beltran Antoni , Rodríguez Miguel A. , Mallol Roger , Heras Mercedes , Cabre Anna , Garcia Lorena , Canela Nuria , de Zegher Francis , Correig Xavier , Ibáñez Lourdes , Yanes Oscar
Published: June 2015

Hyperinsulinaemic androgen excess (HIAE) in prepubertal and pubertal girls usually precedes a broader pathological phenotype in adulthood that is associated with anovulatory infertility, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. The metabolic derangements that determine these long-term health risks remain to be clarified. Here we use NMR and MS-based metabolomics to show that serum levels of methionine sulfoxide in HIAE girls are an indicator of the degree of oxidation of methionine-148 residue in apolipoprotein-A1. Oxidation of apo-A1 in methionine-148, in turn, leads to an impaired maturation of high-density lipoproteins (HDL) that is reflected in a decline of large HDL particles. Notably, such metabolic alterations occur in the absence of impaired glucose tolerance, hyperglycemia and hypertriglyceridemia and were partially restored after 18 months of treatment with a low-dose combination of pioglitazone, metformin and flutamide.
ZnO nanowires array grown on Ga-doped ZnO single crystal for dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Hu Qichang , Li Yafeng , Huang Feng , Zhang Zhaojun , Ding Kai , Wei Mingdeng , Lin Zhang
Published: June 2015

High quality ZnO nanowires arrays were homoepitaxial grown on Ga-doped ZnO single crystal (GZOSC), which have the advantages of high conductivity, high carrier mobility and high thermal stability. When it was employed as a photoanode in the DSSCs, the cell exhibited a 1.44% power-conversion efficiency under the illumination of one sun (AM 1.5G). The performance is superior to our ZnO nanowires/FTO based DSSCs under the same condition. This enhanced performance is mainly attributed to the perfect interface between the ZnO nanowires and the GZOSC substrate that contributes to lower carrier scattering and recombination rates compared with that grown on traditional FTO substrate.
Latent progenitor cells as potential regulators for tympanic membrane regeneration
Authors: Kim Seung Won , Kim Jangho , Seonwoo Hoon , Jang Kyung-Jin , Kim Yeon Ju , Lim Hye Jin , Lim Ki-Taek , Tian Chunjie , Chung Jong Hoon , Choung Yun-Hoon
Published: June 2015

Tympanic membrane (TM) perforation, in particular chronic otitis media, is one of the most common clinical problems in the world and can present with sensorineural healing loss. Here, we explored an approach for TM regeneration where the latent progenitor or stem cells within TM epithelial layers may play an important regulatory role. We showed that potential TM stem cells present highly positive staining for epithelial stem cell markers in all areas of normal TM tissue. Additionally, they are present at high levels in perforated TMs, especially in proximity to the holes, regardless of acute or chronic status, suggesting that TM stem cells may be a potential factor for TM regeneration. Our study suggests that latent TM stem cells could be potential regulators of regeneration, which provides a new insight into this clinically important process and a potential target for new therapies for chronic otitis media and other eardrum injuries.
A predictive machine learning approach for microstructure optimization and materials design
Authors: Liu Ruoqian , Kumar Abhishek , Chen Zhengzhang , Agrawal Ankit , Sundararaghavan Veera , Choudhary Alok
Published: June 2015

This paper addresses an important materials engineering question: How can one identify the complete space (or as much of it as possible) of microstructures that are theoretically predicted to yield the desired combination of properties demanded by a selected application? We present a problem involving design of magnetoelastic Fe-Ga alloy microstructure for enhanced elastic, plastic and magnetostrictive properties. While theoretical models for computing properties given the microstructure are known for this alloy, inversion of these relationships to obtain microstructures that lead to desired properties is challenging, primarily due to the high dimensionality of microstructure space, multi-objective design requirement and non-uniqueness of solutions. These challenges render traditional search-based optimization methods incompetent in terms of both searching efficiency and result optimality. In this paper, a route to address these challenges using a machine learning methodology is proposed. A systematic framework consisting of random data generation, feature selection and classification algorithms is developed. Experiments with five design problems that involve identification of microstructures that satisfy both linear and nonlinear property constraints show that our framework outperforms traditional optimization methods with the average running time reduced by as much as 80% and with optimality that would not be achieved otherwise.
Constructal thermodynamics combined with infrared experiments to evaluate temperature differences in cells
Authors: Lucia Umberto , Grazzini Giuseppe , Montrucchio Bartolomeo , Grisolia Giulia , Borchiellini Romano , Gervino Gianpiero , Castagnoli Carlotta , Ponzetto Antonio , Silvagno Francesca
Published: June 2015

The aim of this work was to evaluate differences in energy flows between normal and immortalized cells when these distinct biological systems are exposed to environmental stimulation. These differences were considered using a constructal thermodynamic approach and were subsequently verified experimentally. The application of constructal law to cell analysis led to the conclusion that temperature differences between cells with distinct behaviour can be amplified by interaction between cells and external fields. Experimental validation of the principle was carried out on two cellular models exposed to electromagnetic fields. By infrared thermography we were able to assess small changes in heat dissipation measured as a variation in cell internal energy. The experimental data thus obtained are in agreement with the theoretical calculation, because they show a different thermal dispersion pattern when normal and immortalized cells are exposed to electromagnetic fields. By using two methods that support and validate each other, we have demonstrated that the cell/environment interaction can be exploited to enhance cell behavior differences, in particular heat dissipation. We propose infrared thermography as a technique effective in discriminating distinct patterns of thermal dispersion and therefore able to distinguish a normal phenotype from a transformed one.
Translational utility of rodent hippocampal auditory gating in schizophrenia research: a review and evaluation
Authors: Smucny J , Stevens K E , Olincy A , Tregellas J R
Published: June 2015

Impaired gating of the auditory evoked P50 potential is one of the most pharmacologically well-characterized features of schizophrenia. This deficit is most commonly modeled in rodents by implanted electrode recordings from the hippocampus of the rodent analog of the P50, the P20–N40. The validity and effectiveness of this tool, however, has not been systematically reviewed. Here, we summarize findings from studies that have examined the effects of pharmacologic modulation on gating of the rodent hippocampal P20–N40 and the human P50. We show that drug effects on the P20–N40 are highly predictive of human effects across similar dose ranges. Furthermore, mental status (for example, anesthetized vs alert) does not appear to diminish the predictive capacity of these recordings. We then discuss hypothesized neuropharmacologic mechanisms that may underlie gating effects for each drug studied. Overall, this review supports continued use of hippocampal P20–N40 gating as a translational tool for schizophrenia research.
Nanospot welding of carbon nanotubes using near-field enhancement effect of AFM probe irradiated by optical fiber probe laser
Authors: Yang Lijun , Cui Jianlei , Wang Yang , Hou Chaojian , Xie Hui , Mei Xuesong , Wang Wenjun , Wang Kedian
Published: June 2015

The carbon nanotubes interconnection can be achieved by the new nanospot welding method with the near-field enhancement effect of the metallic AFM probe tip irradiated by optical fiber probe laser.
DNA modulates solvent isotope effects in a nanopore
Authors: Watson Matthew A. , Cockroft Scott L.
Published: June 2015

Solvent isotope effects are examined in protein nanopores.
A metal–organic framework with immobilized Ag(i) for highly efficient desulfurization of liquid fuels
Authors: Huang Minhui , Chang Ganggang , Su Ye , Xing Huabin , Zhang Zhiguo , Yang Yiwen , Ren Qilong , Bao Zongbi , Chen Banglin
Published: June 2015

A metal–organic framework immobilized with Ag(i) sites, namely, (Cr)-MIL-101-SO3Ag, was successfully developed as a highly efficient desulfurization adsorbent.
Photocurrent generation in a light-harvesting system with multifunctional artificial nanochannels
Authors: Zhang Qianqian , Liu Zhaoyue , Zhai Jin
Published: June 2015

Inspired by the biological light-driven proton pump, a light-harvesting system based on multifunctional artificial nanochannels is developed for photocurrent generation.
Hessian facilitated analysis of optimally controlled quantum dynamics of systems with coupled primary and secondary states
Authors: Shu Chuan-Cun , Edwalds Melanie , Shabani Alireza , Ho Tak-San , Rabitz Herschel
Published: June 2015

Hessian of the state-to-state transition probability control landscape contains rich information on the controlled quantum dynamics.
The Raman optical activity of β-d-xylose: where experiment and computation meet
Authors: Zielinski François , Mutter Shaun T. , Johannessen Christian , Blanch Ewan W. , Popelier Paul L. A.
Published: June 2015

By further refining our DFT/MM protocol that allows for the crucial influence of hydration, we show that it is possible to achieve near-perfect agreement between observed and calculated ROA spectra.
Production of long chain alcohols and alkanes upon coexpression of an acyl-ACP reductase and aldehyde-deformylating oxygenase with a bacterial type-I fatty acid synthase in E. coli
Authors: Coursolle Dan , Lian Jiazhang , Shanklin John , Zhao Huimin
Published: June 2015

An orthogonal type I FAS was introduced into E. coli to increase the production of long chain alcohols and alkanes.
On the stability of noble gas bound 1-tris(pyrazolyl)borate beryllium and magnesium complexes
Authors: Pan Sudip , Saha Ranajit , Chattaraj Pratim K.
Published: June 2015

1-Tris(pyrazolyl)borate beryllium and magnesium cationic complexes are found to bind Ar–Rn atoms quite effectively.
Chemical signals in terrestrial vertebrates: search for design features
Authors: Apps Peter J. , Weldon Paul J. , Kramer Matthew
Published: June 2015

We review current information on intraspecific chemical signals and search for patterns in signal chemistry among modern terrestrial vertebrates (Amniota), including tortoises, squamate reptiles (amphisbaenians, lizards, and snakes), birds, and mammals.
Axially assembled photosynthetic reaction center mimics composed of tetrathiafulvalene, aluminum(iii) porphyrin and fullerene entities
Authors: Poddutoori Prashanth K. , Lim Gary N. , Sandanayaka Atula S. D. , Karr Paul A. , Ito Osamu , D'Souza Francis , Pilkington Melanie , van der Est Art
Published: June 2015

Vertical supramolecular triads constructed using tetrathiafulvalene (TTF), aluminum(iii) porphyrin (AlPor) and fullerene (C60) generate the spin-polarized radical pair TTF˙+C˙−60.
Enhanced thermoelectric performance of layered SnS crystals: the synergetic effect of temperature and carrier concentration
Authors: Sun Bao-Zhen , Ma Zuju , He Chao , Wu Kechen
Published: June 2015

The synergistic deployment of the effects of temperature and carrier concentration raises the ZT of SnS to a high value (1.61 ± 0.02).
Ultrafast thermal charging of inorganic nano-phase change material composites for solar thermal energy storage
Authors: Kardam Abhishek , Narayanan S. Shankara , Bhardwaj Nitin , Madhwal Devinder , Shukla Prashant , Verma Abhishek , Jain V. K.
Published: June 2015

Ultrafast charging of NG–PCM and CNT–PCM nanocomposites has been demonstrated using a conventional heating approach and direct solar illumination experimental setups.
Biomimetic synthesis of C3N4/TiO2/Ag nanosheet composites with high visible-light photocatalytic performance
Authors: Tong Zhen Wei , Yang Dong , Sun Yuan Yuan , Jiang Zhong Yi
Published: June 2015

A C3N4/TiO2/Ag nanosheet photocatalyst was designed and synthesizedviaa biomimetic method, achieving high visible-light photocatalytic performances.
Layer-by-layer self-assembly of 2D graphene nanosheets, 3D copper oxide nanoflowers and 0D gold nanoparticles for ultrasensitive electrochemical detection of alpha fetoprotein
Authors: Wang Yulan , Wu Dan , Zhang Yong , Ren Xiang , Wang Yaoguang , Ma Hongmin , Wei Qin
Published: June 2015

In this work, a novel and ultrasensitive label-free electrochemical immunosensor was developed for the quantitative detection of alpha fetoprotein (AFP).
Synthesis, characterization and photocatalytic activity of magnetically separable γ-Fe2O3/N,Fe codoped TiO2 heterojunction for degradation of Reactive Blue 4 dye
Authors: Kaur Navneet , Kaur Shahi Satwant , Singh Vasundhara
Published: June 2015

Nanocrystalline undoped, N-doped and N,Fe codoped TiO2 have been synthesized using a sol–gel method for the photocatalytic degradation of Reactive Blue 4 dye under visible light, with N,Fe codoped TiO2 exhibiting the best activity.
Advances in cellulose-based superabsorbent hydrogels
Authors: Ma Jianzhong , Li Xiaolu , Bao Yan
Published: June 2015

This contribution provides a brief overview of recent progress in cellulose-based superabsorbent hydrogels, fabrication approaches, materials and promising applications.
Nanodiamond–TiO2 composites for photocatalytic degradation of microcystin-LA in aqueous solutions under simulated solar light
Authors: Sampaio Maria J. , Pastrana-Martínez Luisa M. , Silva Adrián M. T. , Buijnsters Josephus G. , Han Changseok , Silva Cláudia G. , Carabineiro Sónia A. C. , Dionysiou Dionysios D. , Faria Joaquim L.
Published: June 2015

Microcystin MC-LA degradation by a nanostructured solar photocatalyst.