bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Steroid‐Based Amphiphiles for Membrane Protein Study: The Importance of Alkyl Spacers for Protein Stability
Authors: Ehsan Muhammad , Das Manabendra , Stern Valerie , Du Yang , Mortensen Jonas S. , Hariharan Parameswaran , Byrne Bernadette , Loland Claus J. , Kobilka Brian K. , Guan Lan , Chae Pil Seok
Published: April 2018

Membrane proteins allow effective communication between cells and organelles and their external environments. Maintaining membrane protein stability in a non‐native environment is the major bottleneck to their structural study. Detergents are widely used to extract membrane proteins from the membrane and to keep the extracted protein in a stable state for downstream characterisation. In this study, three sets of steroid‐based amphiphiles—glyco‐diosgenin analogues (GDNs) and steroid‐based pentasaccharides either lacking a linker (SPSs) or containing a linker (SPS‐Ls)—have been developed as new chemical tools for membrane protein research. These detergents were tested with three membrane proteins in order to characterise their ability to extract membrane proteins from the membrane and to stabilise membrane proteins long‐term. Some of the detergents, particularly the SPS‐Ls, displayed favourable behaviour with the tested membrane proteins. This result indicates the potential utility of these detergents as chemical tools for membrane protein structural study and a critical role of the simple alkyl spacer in determining detergent efficacy.
The novel truncated isoform of human manganese superoxide dismutase has a differential role in promoting metastasis of lung cancer cells
Authors: Li Shuaiguang , Yang Enze , Shen Lianghua , Niu Dewei , Breitzig Mason , Tan Lee Charles , Wu Xiaocong , Huang Meiyan , Sun Hanxiao , Wang Feng
Published: April 2018

Growing evidences have demonstrated alternative splicing makes great contribution to tumor metastasis since multiple protein isoforms from a single gene that often display different functions in the cell. Human manganese superoxide dismutase (hMnSOD) was revealed dysregulation in progress of tumor metastasis, while the effect of hMnSOD isoforms on metastasis remained unclear. In this study, we showed a novel truncated hMnSOD isoform hMnSOD183, which lacked 39 amino acids compared with hMnSOD222. We expressed two hMnSOD protein isoforms in Escherichia coli, respectively, and found that the MnSOD activity of truncated hMnSOD isoform was especially weaker. In 95‐D cells, mRNA levels of hMnSOD variants and MnSOD activity were significantly increased than that in A549 cells. Furthermore, the hMnSODc exhibited lower mRNA level than hMnSODa/b in A549 and 95‐D cells. Additionally, the effects of two isoforms were assessed about cell invasion, overexpression of hMnSOD222 but not hMnSOD183 promoted 95‐D cells metastasis, and hMnSOD knockdown significantly reduced cells invasive behavior. Overexpression of hMnSOD isoforms also caused changes of metastasis associated proteins, such as up‐regulation of MMPs, VEGF and Vimentin and down‐regulation of E‐cadherin. Moreover, overexpression of hMnSOD183 had weaker effect on metastasis related signaling proteins, such as Akt, JNK and IKKβ, compared to hMnSOD222. In conclusion, our study identified that hMnSOD isoforms induced lung cancer cells invasion through Akt‐JNK‐IKKβ signaling pathways and the hMnSOD183 isoform played a weaker role than hMnSOD222. Characterization of hMnSOD isoforms is useful for future investigation on metastasis of lung cancer cells.
Role of NCoR1 in mitochondrial function and energy metabolism
Authors: Lima Tanes I. , Valentim Rafael R. , Araújo Hygor N. , Oliveira André G. , Favero Bianca C. , Menezes Eveline S. , Araújo Rafaela , Silveira Leonardo R.
Published: April 2018

Mitochondrial number and shape are constantly changing in response to increased energy demands. The ability to synchronize mitochondrial pathways to respond to energy fluctuations within the cell is a central aspect of mammalian homeostasis. This dynamic process depends on the coordinated activation of transcriptional complexes to promote the expression of genes encoding for mitochondrial proteins. Recent evidence has shown that the nuclear corepressor NCoR1 is an essential metabolic switch which acts on oxidative metabolism signaling. Here, we provide an overview of the emerging role of NCoR1 in the transcriptional control of energy metabolism. The identification and characterization of NCoR1 as a central, evolutionary conserved player in mitochondrial function have revealed a novel layer of metabolic control. Defining the precise mechanisms by which NCoR1 acts on energy homeostasis will ultimately contribute towards the development of novel therapies for the treatment of metabolic diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Flexible Fe2O3 and V2O5 Nanofibers as Binder‐Free Electrodes for High‐Performance All‐Solid‐State Asymmetric Supercapacitors
Authors: Jiang He , Niu Hao , Yang Xue , Sun Zhiqin , Li Fuzhi , Wang Qian , Qu Fengyu
Published: April 2018

Flexible, highly porous Fe2O3 and V2O5 nanofibers (NFs) have been synthesized by a facile electrospinning method followed by calcination. They have been directly used as binder‐free electrodes for high‐performance supercapacitors. These Fe2O3 and V2O5 NFs interconnect with one another and construct three‐dimensional hierarchical porous films with high specific surface areas. Benefitting from their unique structural features, binder‐free Fe2O3 and V2O5 porous nanofiber electrodes offer high specific capacitances of 255 F g−1 and 256 F g−1, respectively, at 2 mV s−1 in 1 m aqueous Na2SO4 as electrolyte. An all‐solid‐state asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) has been fabricated using Fe2O3 and V2O5 nanofibers as negative and positive electrodes, respectively. It could be operated at up to 1.8 V, taking advantage of the wide and opposite potential windows of the respective electrodes. The assembled all‐solid‐state ASC achieved a high energy density up to 32.2 W h kg−1 at an average power density of 128.7 W kg−1, and exhibited excellent cycling stability and power capability. The effective and facile synthesis method and superior electrochemical performance described herein make electrospun Fe2O3 and V2O5 NFs promising electrode materials for high‐performance ASCs.
Redox‐Switchable Calix[6]arene‐Based Isomeric Rotaxanes
Authors: Zanichelli Valeria , Bazzoni Margherita , Arduini Arturo , Franchi Paola , Lucarini Marco , Ragazzon Giulio , Secchi Andrea , Silvi Serena
Published: April 2018

Operating molecular machines are based on switchable systems whose components can be set in motion in a controllable fashion. The presence of nonsymmetrical elements is a mandatory requirement to obtain and demonstrate the unidirectionality of motion. Calixarene‐based macrocycles have proved to be very efficient hosts in the design of oriented rotaxanes and of pseudorotaxanes with strict control over the direction of complexation. A series of two‐station rotaxanes based on bipyridinium–ammonium axles was synthesized and characterized. A recently reported supramolecularly assisted strategy for the synthesis of different orientational isomers was exploited, and the ammonium unit was identified as a proper secondary station for the calixarene. Displacement of the macrocycle was triggered by electrochemical reduction of the bipyridinium primary station, and it was shown that the shuttling is influenced both by the length of the chain of the axle component and by the position of the secondary station with respect to the calixarene rims.
“Butterfly Wings” Stabilize Heptacene
Authors: Müller Matthias , Rüdiger Elias C. , Koser Silke , Tverskoy Olena , Rominger Frank , Hinkel Felix , Freudenberg Jan , Bunz Uwe H. F.
Published: April 2018

The synthesis of bisalkynylated derivatives of tetrabenzo[a,c,p,r]heptacene and tetrabenzo[a,c,l,n]pentacene via two‐/fourfold Stille reactions involving a 9‐stannafluorene and suitable tetrabromoacenes is reported. These triphenylene‐“winged” heptacenes are surprisingly stable and maintain a significant portion of the electronic properties of heptacenes.
Atypical tuberous sclerosis complex presenting as familial renal cell carcinoma with leiomyomatous stroma
Authors: Bah Ismaël , Fahiminiya Somayyeh , Bégin Louis R , Hamel Nancy , D'Agostino Maria D , Tanguay Simon , Foulkes William D
Published: April 2018

We report an atypical tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) phenotype presenting as familial multiple renal cell carcinomas (RCCs) with (angio)leiomyomatous stroma (RCCLS) (5/7 familial RCCs) on a background of multiple angiomyolipomas, hypopigmented skin macules, and absence of neurological anomalies. In the index case and three relatives, germline genetic testing identified a heterozygous TSC2 missense pathogenic variant [c.2714 G > A, (p.Arg905Gln)], a rare TSC‐associated alteration which has previously been associated with a milder TSC phenotype. Whole‐exome sequencing of five RCCs from the index case and one RCC from his mother demonstrated either unique tumour‐specific deleterious second hits in TSC2 or significant allelic imbalance at the TSC2 gene locus (5/6 RCCs). This study confirms the key tumourigenic role of tumour‐specific TSC2 second hits in TSC‐associated RCCs and supports the notion that RCCLS may be strongly related to abnormalities of the mTOR pathway.
Screening for emotional disorders in patients with cancer using the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI) and the BSI‐18 versus a standardized psychiatric interview (the World Health Organization Composite International Diagnostic Interview)
Authors: Grassi Luigi , Caruso Rosangela , Mitchell Alex J. , Sabato Silvana , Nanni Maria Giulia
Published: April 2018

BACKGROUND

Given the adverse consequences of psychiatric and psychosocial morbidity on the quality of life for patients with cancer, prompt detection of psychological symptoms is mandatory. The authors examined the properties and accuracy of the Brief Symptom Inventory (the 53‐item version [BSI] and the 18‐item version [BSI‐18]) for the detection of psychiatric morbidity compared with the World Health Organization Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI) for International Classification of Diseases‐10th Revision psychiatric diagnoses.

METHODS

A convenience sample of 498 patients with newly diagnosed cancer who were recruited in cancer outpatient services participated in the CIDI interview and in BSI and BSI‐18 assessments.

RESULTS

The prevalence of psychiatric morbidity was 39.75%. When participants were classified as cases using the BSI standard case rule, agreement with the CIDI was potentially acceptable (sensitivity, 72.7%; specificity, 88.7%). In contrast, the accuracy of the BSI‐18 in identifying cases was poor according to the standard case rule, with very low sensitivity (29.3%) (misclassification rate, 28.7%). By using a first alternative case‐rule system (a BSI‐18 global severity index [GSI] T‐score ≥57), sensitivity marginally improved (45%), whereas a second alternative case‐rule system (a GSI T‐score ≥50) significantly increased sensitivity (77.3%). In receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, a further cutoff GSI T‐score ≥48 exhibited good discrimination levels (sensitivity, 82.3%; specificity, 72.4%). There were some differences in GSI cutoff T‐scores according to the International Classification of Diseases‐10th Revision diagnosis and sex.

CONCLUSIONS

The BSI appeared to have acceptable diagnostic accuracy compared with a standardized psychiatric interview. For the BSI‐18, it is mandatory to use alternative case‐rule systems, to identify patients with psychiatric morbidity. Cancer 2018;124:2415‐26. © 2018 American Cancer Society.
Architectonic characteristics of the visual thalamus and superior colliculus in titi monkeys
Authors: Baldwin Mary K L , Krubitzer Leah
Published: April 2018

Titi monkeys are arboreal, diurnal New World monkeys whose ancestors were the first surviving branch of the New World radiation. In the current study, we use cytoarchitectonic and immunohistochemical characteristics to compare titi monkey subcortical structures associated with visual processing with those of other well‐studied primates. Our goal was to appreciate features that are similar across all New World monkeys, and primates in general, versus those features that are unique to titi monkeys and other primate taxa. We examined tissue stained for Nissl substance, cytochrome oxidase (CO), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), calbindin (Cb), parvalbumin (Pv), and vesicular glutamate transporter 2 (VGLUT2) to characterize the superior colliculus, lateral geniculate nucleus, and visual pulvinar. This is the first study to characterize VGLUT2 in multiple subcortical structures of any New World monkey. Our results from tissue processed for VGLUT2, in combination with other histological stains, revealed distinct features of subcortical structures that are similar to other primates, but also some features that are slightly modified compared to other New World monkeys and other primates. These included subdivisions of the inferior pulvinar, sublamina within the stratum griseum superficiale (SGS) of the superior colliculus, and specific koniocellular layers within the lateral geniculate nucleus. Compared to other New World primates, many features of the subcortical structures that we examined in titi monkeys were most similar to those in owl monkeys and marmosets, with the lateral geniculate nucleus consisting of two main parvocellular layers and two magnocellular layers separated by interlaminar zones or koniocellular layers.
Overview of Flow Cytometry and Microbiology
Authors: Robinson J. Paul
Published: April 2018

Although in recent years flow cytometry has become commonplace in hematology and immunology laboratories, application of the technology to microbiology remains largely unrealized. This overview presents the historical background, discusses applications in various areas of the field, and speculates on the directions of future developments. The availability of high‐quality methods should be a prime factor in convincing microbiologists that flow cytometry may have certain advantages over traditional methods and that it does indeed have much to contribute to microbiology. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Bioequivalence of Oral Formulations of Anastrozole in Healthy Chinese Male Volunteers: A Randomized, Single‐Dose, Two‐Period, Two‐Sequence Crossover Study
Authors: Chen Jiangying , Zhuang Jialang , Wu Jingguo , Chen Xiaoyan , Wang Xueding , Huang Lihui , Zeng Guixiong , Chen Jie , Liao Xiaoxing , Chen Xiao , Ma Zhongfu , Zhong Guoping , Huang Min , Zhong Dafang , Zhao Xianglan
Published: April 2018

Anastrozole is currently used as first‐line treatment in locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer. A generic anastrozole tablet was developed to offer an alternative to the marketed tablet formulation. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the bioequivalence between the test and reference formulations of anastrozole in a single‐dose, 2‐period, 2‐sequence crossover study with a 14‐day washout interval. A total of 20 healthy male Chinese volunteers were enrolled and completed the study, after oral administration of a single dose of 1.0‐mg test and reference formulations of anastrozole. The blood samples were collected at different times and were determined by a fully validated high‐pressure liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method. The evaluated pharmacokinetic parameters, including Cmax, AUC0–t, and AUC0–∞, were assessed for bioequivalence based on current guidelines. The observed pharmacokinetic parameters of anastrozole of the test drug were similar to those of the reference formulation. The 90% confidence intervals of test/reference ratios for Cmax, AUC0−t, and AUC0−∞ were within the bioequivalence acceptance range of 80%–125%. The results obtained from these healthy Chinese subjects in this study suggest that the test formulation of anastrozole 1.0‐mg tablet is bioequivalent to the reference formulation (Arimidex 1.0‐mg tablet).
Ropivacaine Wound Infiltration for Pain Management After Breast Cancer Mastectomy: A Population Pharmacokinetic Analysis
Authors: Riff Camille , Guilhaumou Romain , Marsot Amelie , Beaussier Marc , Cohen Monique , Blin Olivier , Francon Daniel
Published: April 2018

Ropivacaine continuous wound infusions (CWIs) are extensively used as a component of multimodal analgesia. The rational application of CWI of ropivacaine requires a thorough understanding of its pharmacokinetics to investigate the risk of potential systemic toxicity. A population pharmacokinetic (popPK) study was undertaken to describe the pharmacokinetics of ropivacaine CWI during 75 hours. Women undergoing a unilateral mastectomy were scheduled to receive CWI for 40 hours for postoperative analgesia. A 10‐mL ropivacaine 0.75% bolus followed by continuous infusion (400 mL of 0.2% ropivacaine at a flow rate of 10 mL/h) was administered via a multihole catheter placed on the major pectoral muscle. PopPK analysis was performed using the nonlinear mixed‐effects model. A 1‐compartment disposition model with an absorption compartment and a transit compartment for the infusion best describes the data (67 observations from 10 women). Population parameter estimates (between‐subject variability, %) are apparent central volume (V/F) 269 L (39.1%), apparent clearance (CL/F) 18.8 h‐1 (74.9%), and absorption rate (K12) 0.406 h‐1. The model predicted Cmax as 1.45 ± 0.80 μg/mL, which occurred in the 42.4th hour (39–45.9 hours). This popPK model describes the pharmacokinetics of ropivacaine during continuous wound infusion and confirms the safety profile of the present technique.
Hydroxyapatite with Permanent Electrical Polarization: Preparation, Characterization, and Response against Inorganic Adsorbates
Authors: Rivas Manuel , del Valle Luis J. , Armelin Elaine , Bertran Oscar , Turon Pau , Puiggalí Jordi , Alemán Carlos
Published: April 2018

Permanently polarized hydroxyapatite (HAp) particles have been prepared by applying a constant DC of 500 V at 1000 °C for 1 h to the sintered mineral. This process causes important chemical changes, as the formation of OH−defects (vacancies), the disappearance of hydrogenophosphate ions at the mineral surface layer, and structural variations reflected by the increment of the crystallinity. As a consequence, the electrochemical properties and electrical conductivity of the polarized mineral increase noticeably compared with as‐prepared and sintered samples. Moreover, these increments remain practically unaltered after several months. In addition, permanent polarization favours significantly the ability of HAp to adsorb inorganic bioadsorbates in comparison with as‐prepared and sintered samples. The adsorbates cause a significant increment of the electrochemical stability and electrical conductivity with respect to bare polarized HAp, which may have many implications for biomedical applications of permanently polarized HAp.
Gnotobiotic and Conventional Mouse Systems to Support Microbiota Based Studies
Authors: Lavin Richard , DiBenedetto Nicholas , Yeliseyev Vladimir , Delaney Mary , Bry Lynn
Published: April 2018

Animal models are essential to dissect host‐microbiota interactions that impact health and the development of disease. In addition to providing pre‐clinical models for the development of novel therapeutics and diagnostic biomarkers, mouse systems actively support microbiome studies by defining microbial contributions to normal development and homeostasis, as well as the role of microbes in promoting diseases such as inflammatory auto‐immune disorders, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and susceptibility to infectious agents. Mice provide a genetically tenable host that can be reared under gnotobiotic (germ‐free) conditions, allowing colonization studies with human‐ or mouse‐origin defined or complex microbial communities to define specific in vivo effects. The protocols and background information detail key aspects to consider in designing host‐microbiome experiments with mouse models, and in developing robust systems that leverage gnotobiotic mice, microbial consortia, and specific environmental perturbations to identify causal effects in vivo. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Production and Expansion from Blood using a Non‐Integrating Viral Reprogramming Vector
Authors: Sharma Arun , Mücke Michael , Seidman Christine E.
Published: April 2018

We describe a method to transform blood lymphocytes into human‐induced pluripotent stem cells by delivering four transcription factors with a non‐integrative virus. Using human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) as the source cell type for hiPSC reprogramming is advantageous since blood samples are rapidly and safely obtained from nearly‐all subjects. Reprogramming factors needed to make hiPSCs are introduced by infecting the PBMCs with non‐integrating Sendai virus vectors. Reprogrammed cells can subsequently be quickly expanded for downstream use. In this unit, we present current protocols for the isolation of PBMCs from a small sample of human blood and subsequent viral reprogramming and expansion of PBMCs into hiPSCs. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Analysis of Histone Modifications by Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Völker‐Albert Moritz Carl , Schmidt Andreas , Forne Ignasi , Imhof Axel
Published: April 2018

Histone N termini undergo diverse post‐translational modifications that significantly extend the information potential of the genetic code. Moreover, these modifications mark specific chromatin regions, modulating epigenetic control, lineage commitment, and overall function of chromosomes. It is widely accepted that histone modifications affect chromatin function, but the exact mechanisms by which modifications on histone tails and specific combinations of modifications are generated, and how they cross‐talk with one another, are still enigmatic. Mass spectrometry is the gold‐standard method for analyzing histone modifications, as it allows the quantification of modifications and combinations. This unit describes how high‐resolution mass spectrometry can be used to study histone post‐translational modifications. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Overview of Gene Expression Using Filamentous Fungi
Authors: Nevalainen Helena , Peterson Robyn , Curach Natalie
Published: April 2018

Filamentous fungi are lower eukaryotes increasingly used for expression of foreign proteins ranging from industrial enzymes originating from other fungi and bacteria to proteins of mammalian origin, such as antibodies and growth factors. Their strengths include an excellent capacity for protein secretion and their eukaryotic protein processing machinery. Proteins secreted from filamentous fungi are modified in the secretory pathway, with folding, proteolytic processing, and addition of glycans being the main modifications. Unlike from many other expression systems, however, plasmids and host strains for expression of gene products in filamentous fungi are not readily available commercially, and the expression system must thus be stitched together in the laboratory. In this overview, the key elements of fungal expression systems are discussed from a practical point of view and with a view towards the future. The principles and considerations presented here can be applied to a range of filamentous fungi. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Overview of Relaxation Dispersion NMR Spectroscopy to Study Protein Dynamics and Protein‐Ligand Interactions
Authors: Walinda Erik , Morimoto Daichi , Sugase Kenji
Published: April 2018

Proteins and nucleic acids are central to all biological processes. NMR spectroscopy has proven to be excellent for studying the dynamics of these macromolecules over various timescales. Relaxation rates and heteronuclear nuclear Overhauser‐effect values can resolve motion on pico‐ to nanosecond timescales, residual dipolar couplings provide information on submicro‐ to millisecond timescales, and even slower dynamics over seconds to hours can be resolved by hydrogen‐exchange experiments. Relaxation dispersion experiments are especially valuable because they resolve motion on micro‐ to millisecond timescales, encompassing biomolecular motions associated with ligand binding, enzymatic catalysis, and domain‐domain opening. These experiments provide structural, kinetic, and thermodynamic information on “invisible” excited conformational states. Relaxation dispersion can be applied not only to single biomolecules but also to protein‐ligand complexes to study the kinetics and thermodynamics of association and dissociation. We review recent developments in relaxation dispersion methodology, outline the R1ρ relaxation dispersion experiment, and discuss application to biomolecular interactions. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Be proactive to make your institution fully accessible
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: April 2018

In April 2016, Wichita State University in Kansas received a complaint filed with the Office for Civil Rights. The complaint alleged the university had discriminated against a blind student in violation of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 by using inaccessible electronic and information technology, including inaccessible class assignments and tests; providing inaccessible work stations; and not providing alternative accessible formats of print materials and class assignments in a timely manner. In July 2016, WSU entered into an agreement with the National Federation of the Blind to resolve these complaints.
Accommodating chronic health conditions in medical education
Authors: Meeks Lisa M. , Jain Neera R.
Published: April 2018

Many students with chronic health conditions successfully attend and graduate from medical school. The barriers students encounter are often related to symptom flares, which may occur suddenly and can be brought on by multiple factors. Flares may include a period of symptoms such as joint pain and stiffness, fatigue, headache, slowed cognitive processing, and gastrointestinal disruption. Students also live with the potential for disease progression that further impacts their health and functioning, creating uncertainty about future accommodation needs.
What House Bill 620 may mean for private colleges and universities
Authors: Charmatz Marc
Published: April 2018

On Feb. 15, 2018, the House of Representatives passed House Bill 620, entitled the ADA Education and Reform Act of 2017, to amend Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. According to the language of the House bill, its purpose is to “promote compliance through education, to clarify the requirements for demand letters, to provide for a notice and cure period before the commencement of a private civil action, and for other purposes.”
The use of antimicrobials as adjuvant therapy for the treatment of obesity and insulin resistance: Effects and associated mechanisms
Authors: dos Reis Sandra Aparecida , do Carmo Gouveia Peluzio Maria , Bressan Josefina
Published: April 2018

The intestinal microbiota has come to be considered an additional risk factor for the development of metabolic diseases. Considering the potential role of antimicrobials as modulators of the intestinal microbiota, they have been investigated for use in the adjuvant treatment of obesity and insulin resistance (IR). In this regard, the present manuscript aimed to review the effect of regular use of antimicrobials on the treatment of obesity and/or IR, as well as its associated mechanisms. The regular use of antimicrobials does not seem to influence the body weight and adiposity of its consumer. Regarding IR, clinical trials did not observe positive effects, on the other hand, most of the experimental studies observed an increase in insulin sensitivity. The mechanisms used by antimicrobials that could lead to the improvement of insulin sensitivity are dependent on the modulation of the intestinal microbiota. This modulation would lead to a reduction in the stimulation of the immune system, as a consequence of improved intestinal barrier and/or the reduction of gram‐negative bacteria in the microbiota. In addition, the secretion of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 would be modulated by metabolites produced by the intestinal microbiota, such as secondary bile acids and short‐chain fatty acids. Based on the results obtained to date, more studies should be performed to elucidate the effect of these drugs on obesity and IR, as well as the mechanisms involved. In addition, the cost‐benefit of the regular use of antimicrobials should be investigated, as this practice may lead to the development of antimicrobial‐resistant microorganisms.
Neural crest and the patterning of vertebrate craniofacial muscles
Authors: Ziermann Janine M. , Diogo Rui , Noden Drew M.
Published: April 2018

Patterning of craniofacial muscles overtly begins with the activation of lineage‐specific markers at precise, evolutionarily conserved locations within prechordal, lateral, and both unsegmented and somitic paraxial mesoderm populations. Although these initial programming events occur without influence of neural crest cells, the subsequent movements and differentiation stages of most head muscles are neural crest‐dependent. Incorporating both descriptive and experimental studies, this review examines each stage of myogenesis up through the formation of attachments to their skeletal partners. We present the similarities among developing muscle groups, including comparisons with trunk myogenesis, but emphasize the morphogenetic processes that are unique to each group and sometimes subsets of muscles within a group. These groups include branchial (pharyngeal) arches, which encompass both those with clear homologues in all vertebrate classes and those unique to one, for example, mammalian facial muscles, and also extraocular, laryngeal, tongue, and neck muscles. The presence of several distinct processes underlying neural crest:myoblast/myocyte interactions and behaviors is not surprising, given the wide range of both quantitative and qualitative variations in craniofacial muscle organization achieved during vertebrate evolution.
The influence of diet and environment on the gut microbial community of field crickets
Authors: Ng Soon Hwee , Stat Michael , Bunce Michael , Simmons Leigh W.
Published: April 2018

The extent to which diet and environment influence gut community membership (presence or absence of taxa) and structure (individual taxon abundance) is the subject of growing interest in microbiome research. Here, we examined the gut bacterial communities of three cricket groups: (1) wild caught field crickets, (2) laboratory‐reared crickets fed cat chow, and (3) laboratory‐reared crickets fed chemically defined diets. We found that both environment and diet greatly altered the structure of the gut bacterial community. Wild crickets had greater gut microbial diversity and higher Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratios, in contrast to laboratory‐reared crickets. Predictive metagenomes revealed that laboratory‐reared crickets were significantly enriched in amino acid degradation pathways, while wild crickets had a higher relative abundance of peptidases that would aid in amino acid release. Although wild and laboratory animals differ greatly in their bacterial communities, we show that the community proportional membership remains stable from Phylum to Family taxonomic levels regardless of differences in environment and diet, suggesting that endogenous factors, such as host genetics, have greater control in shaping gut community membership.
High CO2 decreases the long‐term resilience of the free‐living coralline algae Phymatolithon lusitanicum
Authors: Sordo Laura , Santos Rui , Barrote Isabel , Silva João
Published: April 2018

Mäerl/rhodolith beds are protected habitats that may be affected by ocean acidification (OA), but it is still unclear how the availability of CO2 will affect the metabolism of these organisms. Some of the inconsistencies found among OA experimental studies may be related to experimental exposure time and synergetic effects with other stressors. Here, we investigated the long‐term (up to 20 months) effects of OA on the production and calcification of the most common mäerl species of southern Portugal, Phymatolithon lusitanicum. Both the photosynthetic and calcification rates increased with CO2 after the first 11 months of the experiment, whereas respiration slightly decreased with CO2. After 20 months, the pattern was reversed. Acidified algae showed lower photosynthetic and calcification rates, as well as lower accumulated growth than control algae, suggesting that a metabolic threshold was exceeded. Our results indicate that long‐term exposure to high CO2 will decrease the resilience of Phymatolithon lusitanicum. Our results also show that shallow communities of these rhodoliths may be particularly at risk, while deeper rhodolith beds may become ocean acidification refuges for this biological community.
Parasite richness and abundance within aquatic macroinvertebrates: testing the roles of host‐ and habitat‐level factors
Authors: McDevitt‐Galles Travis , Calhoun Dana Marie , Johnson Pieter T. J.
Published: April 2018

The importance of parasites as both members of biological communities and structuring agents of host communities has been increasingly emphasized. Yet parasites of aquatic macroinvertebrates and the environmental factors regulating their richness and abundance remain poorly studied. Here, we quantified parasite richness and abundance within 12 genera of odonate naiads and opportunistically sampled four additional orders of aquatic macroinvertebrates from 35 freshwater ponds in the San Francisco Bay Area of California,U.S.A. We also tested the relative contributions of host‐ and habitat‐level factors in driving patterns of infection abundance for the most commonly encountered parasite (the trematodeHaematoloechussp.) in nymphal damselflies and dragonflies using hierarchical generalized linear mixed models. Over the course of two years, we quantified the presence and intensity of parasites from 1612 individuals. We identified six parasite taxa: two digenetic trematodes, one larval nematode, one larval acanthocephalan, one gregarine, and a mite, for which the highest infection prevalence (39%) occurred in the damselfly genus,Ishnurasp. Based on the hierarchical analysis ofHaematoloechussp. occurrence, infection prevalence and abundance were associated predominantly with site‐level factors, including definitive host (frog) presence, nymphal odonate density, waterpH, and conductivity. In addition, host suborder interacted with the presence of fishes, such that damselflies had higher infection rates in sites with fish relative to those without, whereas the opposite was true for dragonfly nymphs. These findings offer insights into the potential interaction between host‐ and site‐level factors in shaping parasite populations within macroinvertebrate taxa.
Characteristics and long‐term prognosis of patients with heart failure and mid‐range ejection fraction compared with reduced and preserved ejection fraction: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lauritsen Josephine , Gustafsson Finn , Abdulla Jawdat
Published: April 2018

Aims

This study aimed to assess by a meta‐analysis the clinical characteristics, all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality, and hospitalization of patients with heart failure (HF) with mid‐range ejection fraction (HFmrEF) compared with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).

Methods and results

Data from 12 eligible observational studies including 109 257 patients were pooled. HFmrEF patients were significantly different and occupied a mid‐position between HFrEF and HFpEF: mean age 73.6 ± 9.8 vs. 72.6 ± 9.8 and 77.6 ± 7.2 years, male gender 59% vs. 68.5% and 40%, ischaemic heart disease 49% vs. 52.6% and 39.4%, hypertension 67.3% vs. 61.5% and 76.5%, atrial fibrillation 45.2% vs. 39.6% and 46%, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease 26.4% vs. 24.9% and 30.5%, estimated glomerular filtration rate 62 ± 30 vs. 63.3 ± 23 and 59 ± 22.5, use of renin–angiotensin system inhibitors 79.6% vs. 90.1% and 68.7%, beta‐blockers 82% vs. 89% and 73.5%, and aldosterone antagonists 20.3 vs. 31.5% and 26%, P‐values < 0.05. After a mean follow‐up of 31 ± 5 months, all‐cause mortality was significantly lower in HFmrEF than in HFrEF and HFpEF (26.8% vs. 29.5% and 31%): risk ratio (RR) 0.95 [0.93–0.98; 95% confidence interval (CI)], P < 0.001, and 0.97 (0.94–0.99; 95% CI), P = 0.014, respectively. Cardiovascular mortality was lowest in HFmrEF (9.7% vs. 13% and 12.8%): RR = 0.81 (0.73–0.91), P < 0.001, and 1.10 (0.97–1.24; 95% CI), P = 0.13, respectively. HF hospitalization in HFmrEF compared to that in HFrEF and HFpEF was 23.9% vs. 27.6% and 23.3% with RR = 0.89 (0.85–0.93), P < 0.001, and RR = 1.12 (1.07–1.17), P < 0.001, respectively.

Conclusions

The results of this study support that HFmrEF is a distinct category characterized by a mid‐position between HFrEF and HFpEF and with the lowest all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality.
Applications of the Wittig Reaction on the Synthesis of Natural and Natural‐Analogue Heterocyclic Compounds
Authors: Rocha Djenisa H. A. , Pinto Diana C. G. A. , Silva Artur M. S.
Published: April 2018

More than sixty years after its discovery, the Wittig reaction still is a powerful tool to create carbon–carbon double bonds. The large diversity of high‐yielding and stereoselective reactions that can be achieved, even for highly functionalized molecules, is presented, demonstrating that the Wittig reaction is an efficient and attractive strategy in synthetic organic chemistry. The principles of the reaction will be briefly presented and discussed, but the focus will be on the most recent reports using this reaction in the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds. A comprehensive discussion on its application in the total synthesis of natural products and in the synthesis of natural analogues will be presented. Emphasis will be given to important organic molecules that present interesting biological activities. The purpose of this short review is to highlight the advances in this general area by presenting such newer applications in organic synthesis and eventually guide future researchers.
Why Cyclopropanation is not Involved in Photoinduced α‐Alkylation of Ketones with Diazo Compounds
Authors: Rybicka‐Jasińska Katarzyna , Orłowska Katarzyna , Karczewski Maksymilian , Zawada Katarzyna , Gryko Dorota
Published: April 2018

Diazo compounds are widely used reagents in organic synthesis. Direct photolysis leads to singlet carbenes whereas, in the presence of a photosensitizer, carbenes in the triplet state are generated. However, their reactivity under light irradiation remains poorly understood. Herein, we report photocatalytic, direct alkylation of enamines, generated from ketones, with diazo esters in the presence of free‐base porphyrins acting as photoredox catalysts. Based on the experimental and theoretical studies, we propose a plausible mechanism involving generation of an enamine radical cation that subsequently reacts with diazo compounds giving the radical thus excluding the controversial cyclopropanation–ring opening pathway.
A Straightforward Deracemization of sec‐Alcohols Combining Organocatalytic Oxidation and Biocatalytic Reduction
Authors: Liardo Elisa , Ríos‐Lombardía Nicolás , Morís Francisco , González‐Sabín Javier , Rebolledo Francisca
Published: April 2018

An efficient organocatalytic oxidation of racemic secondary alcohols, mediated by sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and 2‐azaadamantane N‐oxyl (AZADO), has been conveniently coupled with a highly stereoselective bioreduction of the intermediate ketone, catalyzed by ketoreductases, in aqueous medium. The potential of this one‐pot two‐step deracemization process has been proven by a large set of structurally different secondary alcohols. Reactions were carried out up to 100 mm final concentration enabling the preparation of enantiopure alcohols with very high isolated yields (up to 98 %). When the protocol was applied to the stereoisomeric rac/meso mixture of diols, these were obtained with very high enantiomeric excesses and diastereomeric ratios (95 % yield, >99 % ee, >99: < 1 dr).
Reducing Hysteresis Losses by Heating Minor Loops in Magnetocaloric Ni–Mn–Ga–Co Films
Authors: Diestel Anett , Niemann Robert , Schleicher Benjamin , Nielsch Kornelius , Fähler Sebastian
Published: April 2018

Magnetocaloric materials relying on first‐order phase transitions give the highest entropy changes compared to second‐order transitions. However, they have the drawback of a transformation hysteresis, which reduces the efficiency of a cooling cycle. Here an approach to reduce the thermal hysteresis losses by performing incomplete transformation cycles, so called minor loops, is presented. A freestanding, epitaxially grown Ni–Mn–Ga–Co film is used as a model system to analyze the direct martensitic and reverse transformation paths in detail. The additional residual phase fraction only facilitates the forward martensitic transformation, but not the reverse transformation. This pronounced asymmetry between cooling and heating demonstrates that the forward transformation to martensite is controlled by nucleation and the associated excess energy contributes to hysteresis losses. For the reverse transformation, however, nuclei of austenite are always present and accordingly this transformation is controlled by growth of the austenitic phase. The experiments reveal that only the use of heating minor loops is useful to improve the efficiency of magnetocaloric epitaxial films and by this, the ratio of usable magnetization difference divided by hysteresis loss can be increased by 64 %.
An Electrospun Nanofiber Membrane as Gel‐Based Electrolyte for Room‐Temperature Sodium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Lim Du‐Hyun , Agostini Marco , Ahn Jou‐Hyeon , Matic Aleksandar
Published: April 2018

We report on the synthesis and characterization of an electrospun gel polymer electrolyte (GPE) membrane based on polyacrylonitrile nanofibers (PAN) swollen in a polyethylene glycol dimethyl ether/Na‐salt electrolyte solution, for application in room temperature sodium–sulfur (Na–S) batteries. The membranes show a high ionic conductivity, wide electrochemical stability window, and good thermal stability. We demonstrate the performance of the membrane in an Na–S cell using a sulfur–carbon nanotubes composite cathode and Na metal as anode. Our results show that the GPE membrane stabilizes the Na metal anode resulting in stable cycling behavior. The capacity of the Na–S cell, using the GPE membrane and operating at room temperature, is approximately 500 mAh g−1 over 40 cycles. The selected electrolyte configuration also provides improved safety by replacing the highly reactive sodium perchlorate (NaClO4) salt previously used in literature. All these benefits make the gel‐polymer electrolyte membrane a very promising system for application in room‐temperature sodium and sodium–sulfur batteries.
Every Practitioner a “Knowledge Worker”: Promoting Evaluative Thinking to Enhance Learning and Adaptive Management in International Development
Authors: Archibald Thomas , Sharrock Guy , Buckley Jane , Young Stacey
Published: April 2018

International community development involves complex, dynamic processes. Evaluation capacity building (ECB) designed to promote evaluative thinking among community development practitioners can foster more complexity‐aware monitoring and evaluation for learning and adaptive management. Instead of simply executing technical processes based on predetermined plans, development practitioners can be “knowledge workers” who use evaluative thinking to promote collaboration, learning, and adaptation. In this chapter, framed in the context of the United States Agency for International Development's ongoing efforts to become a more effective learning organization, we describe one such ECB initiative implemented by Catholic Relief Services in Zambia, Ethiopia, and Malawi. The chapter provides reflections on a practical application and empirical grounding of theoretical concepts related to complexity‐aware and learning‐focused evaluation.
A Historical Perspective on the Evolution of Evaluative Thinking
Authors: Patton Michael Quinn
Published: April 2018

This chapter reviews the historical emergence of evaluative thinking as an essential approach to evaluation practice. The contributions of evaluation pioneers to the identification and development of evaluation logic as a specialized form of critical thinking are honored. The conclusion articulates the high stakes involved, the life and death importance of thinking evaluatively in these uncertain and perilous times.
Financial density forecasts: A comprehensive comparison of risk‐neutral and historical schemes
Authors: Crisóstomo Ricardo , Couso Lorena
Published: April 2018

We investigate the forecasting ability of the most commonly used benchmarks in financial economics. We approach the usual caveats of probabilistic forecasts studies—small samples, limited models, and nonholistic validations—by performing a comprehensive comparison of 15 predictive schemes during a time period of over 21 years. All densities are evaluated in terms of their statistical consistency, local accuracy and forecasting errors. Using a new composite indicator, the integrated forecast score, we show that risk‐neutral densities outperform historical‐based predictions in terms of information content. We find that the variance gamma model generates the highest out‐of‐sample likelihood of observed prices and the lowest predictive errors, whereas the GARCH‐based GJR‐FHS delivers the most consistent forecasts across the entire density range. In contrast, lognormal densities, the Heston model, or the nonparametric Breeden–Litzenberger formula yield biased predictions and are rejected in statistical tests.
Using Thymus carmanicus and Myrtus communis essential oils to enhance the physicochemical properties of potato chips
Authors: Boroujeni Leila Sedaghat , Hojjatoleslamy Mohammad
Published: April 2018

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant effects of the essential oils of Myrtus communis leaves and Thymus caramanicus aerial parts in order to improve the physicochemical properties of potato chips. Sunflower oil without any antioxidant (control group) was fortified with BHA or TBHQ antioxidants (200 ppm), and M. communis or T. caramanicus essential oils (3,000 ppm). The effects of the antioxidant behavior of these compounds on the physicochemical properties of potato chips were analyzed by measuring peroxide value (PV), acid value (AV), and thiobarbituric acid (TBA). In addition, changes occurring in oxidation stability, texture, and color were evaluated. The results revealed that samples containing either M. communis or T. carmanicus showed a significant decrease in PV, as compared to the control sample. Compared with the control, the extracted oil of potato chips with M. communis or T. carmanicus led to the significant reduction in AV (p < .05). The results also revealed the addition of the essential oils of M. communis or T. carmanicus was obviously effective in preventing the TBA increasing value. Based on the results obtained by the Rancimat test, either T. carmanicus or M. communis essential oils could significantly increase the shelf‐life of potato chips, as compared with the control sample (p < .05). The hardness of potato chips was decreased in M. communis or T. carmanicus groups (p < .05), as compared to the control sample. Neither M. communis nor T. carmanicus essential oils had any negative effects on the lightness values, as compared to the control (p > .05). Based on the results, the physicochemical properties of potato chips could be improved with the addition of these essential oils.