bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Structural Characterization of Some New Magnesium Formamidinates
Authors: Cole Marcus L. , Junk Peter C.
Published: October 2015

[Mg(Form)2(THF)] [Form = bis(2,6‐dimethylphenyl)formamidinate (XylForm) (1), bis(2,6‐diethylphenyl)formamidinate, (EtForm) (2), bis(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)formamidinate (DippForm) (3)] are conveniently synthesized by treating bis(2,6‐dimethylphenyl)formamidine, bis(2,6‐diethylphenyl)formamidine, or bis(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)formamidine, respectively, with half an equivalent of dibutylmagnesium in THF. Compounds 1–3 are mononuclear species in the solid state with five coordinate central metal atoms. The 1H NMR chemical shift of the formamidinate formyl proton exhibits a correlation with ligand sterics wherein increasing bulk leads to a shift to higher field.
MicroRNA‐145 regulates osteoblastic differentiation by targeting the transcription factor Cbfb
Authors: Fukuda Toru , Ochi Hiroki , Sunamura Satoko , Haiden Akina , Bando Waka , Inose Hiroyuki , Okawa Atsushi , Asou Yoshinori , Takeda Shu
Published: October 2015

Osteoblastic differentiation is regulated by various factors, including hormones and transcription factors. Runt‐related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) is an essential player in osteoblastogenesis and transactivates its molecular target by creating a protein complex with its hetero‐dimeric partner core binding factor beta (Cbfb). However, the molecular regulation of Cbfb expression remains unknown. Here, we identified miR‐145 as a crucial regulator of Cbfb expression. The expression of miR‐145 increased during osteoblastogenesis, indicating that miR‐145 works as an inhibitor of osteoblastogenesis. Stable expression of miR‐145 decreased endogenous Cbfb expression and inhibited osteoblastogenesis, in cooperation with miR‐34c. Furthermore, miR‐145 decreased bone regeneration in vivo. Our results indicate that miR‐145 physiologically regulates osteoblast differentiation and bone formation via Cbfb expression by forming a regulatory microRNA network.
Mixed assemblages of drilling predators and the problem of identity in the fossil record: A case study using the muricid gastropodEcphora
Authors: Casey Michelle M. , Farrell Úna C. , Dietl Gregory P. , Veilleux David J.
Published: October 2015

Drillholes made by naticid and muricid gastropods are frequently used in evolutionary and ecological studies because they provide direct, preservable evidence of predation. The muricidEcphorais common in many Neogene Atlantic Coastal Plain assemblages in the United States, but is frequently ignored in studies of naticid predation. We used a combination of Pliocene fossil, modern beach, and experimentally derived samples to evaluate the hypothesis thatEcphorawas an important source of drillholes in infaunal bivalve prey shared with naticids. We focused on the large, thick-shelled venerid,Mercenaria,which is commonly drilled by naticids today. Laboratory experiments, modern beach samples, and the published literature confirm that naticids preferentially drill near the umbo (significant clumping of holes), show a significant correlation between prey size and predator size (estimated by outer borehole diameter), and preferMercenaria<50 mm antero-posterior width when other prey are present. Fossil samples containingEcphora(with or without other large muricids) show no drillhole site stereotypy (no significant clumping, greater variability in placement), no significant predator: prey size correlation, drilled prey shells larger than the largest modern naticids could produce in an experimental setting, and drillholes larger in diameter than those estimated for the largest Pliocene naticids, thus supporting our hypothesis. Substantial overlap in the placement of holes drilled by naticids and muricids, however, made identifying predators from drillhole position problematic. The lack of overlapping ranges of prey shell thickness between fossil and other samples precluded the use of drillhole morphology to establish predator identity (e.g., ratio of inner borehole diameter to outer borehole diameter, drillhole angle). Whereas the difficulty in determining predator identity from drillholes limits the types of analyses that can be reliably performed in mixed-predator assemblages, recognizingEcphoraas a prominent drilling predator creates the opportunity to investigate previously unrecognized questions.
Ottoman Customs Registers (Gümrük Defterleri) as Sources for Global Exchange and Interaction
Authors: Darling Linda T.
Published: October 2015

The Ottoman Empire, contrary to the stereotype, was a key player in global commerce until well into the nineteenth century. Customs registers (gümrük defterleri) compiled by the Ottoman administration provide abundant information on ships, seamen, merchants, goods, and prices. This article summarizes the history of Ottoman customs taxation, enumerates the various types of records that contain information on trade and customs dues, and surveys current scholarship on the customs registers. It also includes lists of customs registers found in the Maliyeden Müdevver collection of the Prime Minister's Ottoman Archive (Başbakanlık Osmanlı Arşivi) and other collections also containing customs registers and related documents. The purpose is to stimulate further research into the Ottoman Empire's role in global interaction and exchange, a core topic in the growing field of world history.
Melvillipteris quadriseriatagen. et sp. nov., a new plant assigned to Rhacophytales from the Upper Devonian (Famennian) of Arctic Canada
Authors: XUE JIN-ZHUANG , BASINGER JAMES F.
Published: October 2015

A new plant of Late Devonian (Famennian) age,Melvillipteris quadriseriatagen. et sp. nov., is reported from Melville Island, Nunavut, Canadian Arctic Archipelago. Main axes and two orders of lateral branches are recognized. The main axes are monopodial in habit, with a zigzag and/or upright appearance and dense adventitious roots attached on some internodes. First-order branches are inserted on the main axes in distichous pairs, showing a quadriseriate pattern (i.e. alternate pairs); they bear one or two sterile ultimate appendages on the proximal portions, and then distally bear alternate second-order branches. Second-order branches bear alternate ultimate appendages which may be fertile or sterile; the sterile ultimate appendages are composed of one or two successive dichotomies, terminating in oppositely recurved tips, and fertile appendages show an elaborate branching system. Each fertile appendage has an initial dichotomy forming two sister branches, each of which further divides three or four times to produce ultimate divisions terminated by sporangia. Two to four small fusiform sporangia are grouped in a truss which is supplied by penultimate division of the fertile appendage. The sporangia have a pointed tip and a longitudinal dehiscence. This new plant resembles other plants with a quadriseriate branching pattern (e.g.RhacophytonCrépin,CephalopterisNathorst,ProtocephalopterisAnaniev,EllesmerisHill, Scheckler & Basinger andProtopteridophytonLi & Hsü), and is assigned to the Rhacophytales. Its similarity to and divergence from the rhacophytaleans, cladoxylopsids and other related plants are discussed.
The Armenian Genocide, AKA the Elephant in the Room
Authors: Erbal Ayda
Published: October 2015

The summer of 2015 will perhaps be remembered as a watershed moment in the annals of racism in the United States. What had been normalized for decades by the southern states and giant retailers in “postracist” America was institutionally delegitimized almost overnight. Upping the ante, the department store giant Macy's announced it will discontinue Donald Trump merchandise because of Trump's racist remarks. A mere half century after the 1964 Civil Rights Act, in a perfect act of Foucauldian governmentality and market regulation from above, American business interests aggressively interfered in redefining the discursive and symbolic boundaries of the new mainstream normativity and truth in the United States. One can safely say that symbolic and actual denial of slavery and racist essentialism as normalized discourses in mainstream US culture and scholarship took another institutional blow, even though some reactionary book review here and there can still make its way into the mainstream, and even though defeating “dog whistle politics” is much more difficult than defeating outright racist symbols or speech.
Partisan Participation and Ethnic Autonomy: The Case of the Mapuche Organisation Admapu, in Chile
Authors: NEIRA CHRISTIAN MARTÍNEZ , RODRÍGUEZ PATRICIA
Published: October 2015

This article examines the formation of Admapu – an organisation representing a broad sector of Mapuche society that resisted the actions of the Chilean dictatorship during the 1980s. In political memory, the period of agrarian reform marks a time of hope and strong participation, but here we show how an autonomy project developed within Admapu conflicted with those making political alliances with the Chilean Left. We examine the internal dynamics within Admapu, and argue that at the end of the decade the organisation divided into factions that cemented a rupture with the political system and brought about the formation of contemporary resistance movements.
D-SPECTRUM AND RELIABILITY OF A BINARY SYSTEM WITH TERNARY COMPONENTS
Authors: Gertsbakh Ilya B. , Shpungin Yoseph , Vaisman Radislav
Published: October 2015

We consider a monotone binary system with ternary components. “Ternary” means that each component can be in one of three states: up, middle (mid) and down. Handling such systems is a hard task, even if a part of the components have no mid state. Nevertheless, the permutation Monte Carlo methods, that proved very useful for dealing with binary components, can be efficiently used also for ternary monotone systems. It turns out that for “ternary” system there also exists a combinatorial invariant by means of which it becomes possible to count the number C(r;x) of system failure sets which have a given number r and x of components in up and down states, respectively. This invariant is called ternary D-spectrum and it is an analogue of the D-spectrum (or signature) of a system with binary components. Its value is the knowledge of system failure or path set properties which do not depend on stochastic mechanism governing component failures. In case of independent and identical components, knowing D-spectrum makes it easy to calculate system UP or DOWN probability for a variety of UP/DOWN definitions suitable for systems of many types, like communication networks, flow and supply networks, etc.
Advance care planning in motor neuron disease: A systematic review
Authors: Murray Leigh , Butow Phyllis N.
Published: October 2015

Objective:

Motor neuron disease (MND) is an incurable progressive illness, characterized by incessant deterioration of neuromuscular function. Timely commencement of advance care planning (ACP) may enable patients to participate in future care choices. The present systematic review aimed to summarize what is known about the prevalence, content, patient/caregiver benefits, healthcare professional (HCP) awareness/support, and healthcare outcomes associated with ACP in the MND setting.

Method:

Quantitative and qualitative studies were identified through database searches and eligibility assessed by one author and verified by her coauthor. Data extraction and quality assessments against standardized criteria were completed by the two authors.

Results:

Of the 422 studies identified, 16 were included. The research methods generally lacked rigor. Advance directive (AD) prevalence varied considerably across studies. Disease progression was the strongest predictor of AD completion. ACP processes may clarify patients' wishes and promote communication. HCP attitudes or lack of awareness may limit ACP processes. Varying patient preferences may make flexible approaches and timing necessary.

Significance of results:

Important benefits may be associated with ACP in the context of a motor neuron disease (e.g., feelings of control/relief and refusal of unwanted treatments). However, further evidence is required to verify findings and identify optimal streamlined approaches (e.g., use of decision aids) consistent with patients' (and caregivers') needs over time.
Underwater Gliders Find Swirling Vortices of Warm, Salty Water
Authors: Shultz David
Published: October 2015

Vortices formed off the west coast of Sardinia could play a large role in Mediterranean water circulation and mixing and are significant for marine ecosystems and regional climate.
STAT3-mediated IGF-2 secretion in the tumour microenvironment elicits innate resistance to anti-IGF-1R antibody
Authors: Lee Ji-Sun , Kang Ju-Hee , Boo Hye-Jin , Hwang Su-Jung , Hong Sungyoul , Lee Su-Chan , Park Young-Jun , Chung Tae-Moon , Youn Hyewon , Mi Lee Seung , Jae Kim Byoung , Chung June-Key , Chung Yeonseok , William William N. , Kee Shin Young , Lee Hyo-Jong , Oh Seung-Hyun , Lee Ho-Young
Published: October 2015

Drug resistance is a major impediment in medical oncology. Recent studies have emphasized the importance of the tumour microenvironment (TME) to innate resistance, to molecularly targeted therapies. In this study, we investigate the role of TME in resistance to cixutumumab, an anti-IGF-1R monoclonal antibody that has shown limited clinical efficacy. We show that treatment with cixutumumab accelerates tumour infiltration of stromal cells and metastatic tumour growth, and decreases overall survival of mice. Cixutumumab treatment stimulates STAT3-dependent transcriptional upregulation of IGF-2 in cancer cells and recruitment of macrophages and fibroblasts via paracrine IGF-2/IGF-2R activation, resulting in the stroma-derived CXCL8 production, and thus angiogenic and metastatic environment. Silencing IGF-2 or STAT3 expression in cancer cells or IGF-2R or CXCL8 expression in stromal cells significantly inhibits the cancer–stroma communication and vascular endothelial cells’ angiogenic activities. These findings suggest that blocking the STAT3/IGF-2/IGF-2R intercellular signalling loop may overcome the adverse consequences of anti-IGF-1R monoclonal antibody-based therapies.
Notch signal strength controls cell fate in the haemogenic endothelium
Authors: Gama-Norton Leonor , Ferrando Eva , Ruiz-Herguido Cristina , Liu Zhenyi , Guiu Jordi , Islam Abul B. M. M. K. , Lee Sung-Uk , Yan Minhong , Guidos Cynthia J. , López-Bigas Nuria , Maeda Takahiro , Espinosa Lluis , Kopan Raphael , Bigas Anna
Published: October 2015

Acquisition of the arterial and haemogenic endothelium fates concurrently occur in the aorta–gonad–mesonephros (AGM) region prior to haematopoietic stem cell (HSC) generation. The arterial programme depends on Dll4 and the haemogenic endothelium/HSC on Jag1-mediated Notch1 signalling. How Notch1 distinguishes and executes these different programmes in response to particular ligands is poorly understood. By using two Notch1 activation trap mouse models with different sensitivity, here we show that arterial endothelial cells and HSCs originate from distinct precursors, characterized by different Notch1 signal strengths. Microarray analysis on AGM subpopulations demonstrates that the Jag1 ligand stimulates low Notch strength, inhibits the endothelial programme and is permissive for HSC specification. In the absence of Jag1, endothelial cells experience high Dll4-induced Notch activity and select the endothelial programme, thus precluding HSC formation. Interference with the Dll4 signal by ligand-specific blocking antibodies is sufficient to inhibit the endothelial programme and favour specification of the haematopoietic lineage.
Phosphoinositide 3-kinase enables phagocytosis of large particles by terminating actin assembly through Rac/Cdc42 GTPase-activating proteins
Authors: Schlam Daniel , Bagshaw Richard D. , Freeman Spencer A. , Collins Richard F. , Pawson Tony , Fairn Gregory D. , Grinstein Sergio
Published: October 2015

Phagocytosis is responsible for the elimination of particles of widely disparate sizes, from large fungi or effete cells to small bacteria. Though superficially similar, the molecular mechanisms involved differ: engulfment of large targets requires phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), while that of small ones does not. Here, we report that inactivation of Rac and Cdc42 at phagocytic cups is essential to complete internalization of large particles. Through a screen of 62 RhoGAP-family members, we demonstrate that ARHGAP12, ARHGAP25 and SH3BP1 are responsible for GTPase inactivation. Silencing these RhoGAPs impairs phagocytosis of large targets. The GAPs are recruited to large—but not small—phagocytic cups by products of PI3K, where they synergistically inactivate Rac and Cdc42. Remarkably, the prominent accumulation of phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate characteristic of large-phagosome formation is less evident during phagocytosis of small targets, accounting for the contrasting RhoGAP distribution and the differential requirement for PI3K during phagocytosis of dissimilarly sized particles.
RelB activation in anti-inflammatory decidual endothelial cells: a master plan to avoid pregnancy failure?
Authors: Masat Elisa , Gasparini Chiara , Agostinis Chiara , Bossi Fleur , Radillo Oriano , De Seta Francesco , Tamassia Nicola , Cassatella Marco A. , Bulla Roberta
Published: October 2015

It is known that excessive inflammation at fetal-maternal interface is a key contributor in a compromised pregnancy. Female genital tract is constantly in contact with microorganisms and several strategies must be adopted to avoid pregnancy failure. Decidual endothelial cells (DECs) lining decidual microvascular vessels are the first cells that interact with pro-inflammatory stimuli released into the environment by microorganisms derived from gestational tissues or systemic circulation. Here, we show that DECs are hypo-responsive to LPS stimulation in terms of IL-6, CXCL8 and CCL2 production. Our results demonstrate that DECs express low levels of TLR4 and are characterized by a strong constitutive activation of the non-canonical NF-κB pathway and a low responsiveness of the canonical pathway to LPS. In conclusion, DECs show a unique hypo-responsive phenotype to the pro-inflammatory stimulus LPS in order to control the inflammatory response at feto-maternal interface.
Boosting thermoelectric efficiency using time-dependent control
Authors: Zhou Hangbo , Thingna Juzar , Hänggi Peter , Wang Jian-Sheng , Li Baowen
Published: October 2015

Thermoelectric efficiency is defined as the ratio of power delivered to the load of a device to the rate of heat flow from the source. Till date, it has been studied in presence of thermodynamic constraints set by the Onsager reciprocal relation and the second law of thermodynamics that severely bottleneck the thermoelectric efficiency. In this study, we propose a pathway to bypass these constraints using a time-dependent control and present a theoretical framework to study dynamic thermoelectric transport in the far from equilibrium regime. The presence of a control yields the sought after substantial efficiency enhancement and importantly a significant amount of power supplied by the control is utilised to convert the wasted-heat energy into useful-electric energy. Our findings are robust against nonlinear interactions and suggest that external time-dependent forcing, which can be incorporated with existing devices, provides a beneficial scheme to boost thermoelectric efficiency.
Connecting marine productivity to sea-spray via nanoscale biological processes: Phytoplankton Dance or Death Disco?
Authors: O’Dowd Colin , Ceburnis Darius , Ovadnevaite Jurgita , Bialek Jakub , Stengel Dagmar B. , Zacharias Merry , Nitschke Udo , Connan Solene , Rinaldi Matteo , Fuzzi Sandro , Decesari Stefano , Cristina Facchini Maria , Marullo Salvatore , Santoleri Rosalia , Dell’Anno Antonio , Corinaldesi Cinzia , Tangherlini Michael , Danovaro Roberto
Published: October 2015

Bursting bubbles at the ocean-surface produce airborne salt-water spray-droplets, in turn, forming climate-cooling marine haze and cloud layers. The reflectance and ultimate cooling effect of these layers is determined by the spray’s water-uptake properties that are modified through entrainment of ocean-surface organic matter (OM) into the airborne droplets. We present new results illustrating a clear dependence of OM mass-fraction enrichment in sea spray (OMss) on both phytoplankton-biomass, determined from Chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) and Net Primary Productivity (NPP). The correlation coefficient for OMss as a function of Chl-a increased form 0.67 on a daily timescale to 0.85 on a monthly timescale. An even stronger correlation was found as a function of NPP, increasing to 0.93 on a monthly timescale. We suggest the observed dependence is through the demise of the bloom, driven by nanoscale biological processes (such as viral infections), releasing large quantities of transferable OM comprising cell debris, exudates and other colloidal materials. This OM, through aggregation processes, leads to enrichment in sea-spray, thus demonstrating an important coupling between biologically-driven plankton bloom termination, marine productivity and sea-spray modification with potentially significant climate impacts.
Reference of Temperature and Time during tempering process for non-stoichiometric FTO films
Authors: Yang J. K. , Liang B. , Zhao M. J. , Gao Y. , Zhang F. C. , Zhao H. L.
Published: October 2015

In order to enhance the mechanical strength of Low-E glass, Fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) films have to be tempered at high temperatures together with glass substrates. The effects of tempering temperature (600 °C ~ 720 °C) and time (150 s ~ 300 s) on the structural and electrical properties of FTO films were investigated. The results show all the films consist of non-stoichiometric, polycrystalline SnO2 without detectable amounts of fluoride. 700 °C and 260 s may be the critical tempering temperature and time, respectively. FTO films tempered at 700 °C for 260 s possesses the resistivity of 7.54 × 10−4 Ω•cm, the average transmittance in 400 ~ 800 nm of ~80% and the calculated emissivity of 0.38. Hall mobility of FTO films tempered in this proper condition is mainly limited by the ionized impurity scattering. The value of [O]/[Sn] at the film surface is much higher than the stoichiometric value of 2.0 of pure crystalline SnO2.
Intraperitoneal Administration of a Novel TAT-BDNF Peptide Ameliorates Cognitive Impairments via Modulating Multiple Pathways in Two Alzheimer’s Rodent Models
Authors: Wu Yuanyuan , Luo Xiaobin , Liu Xinhua , Liu Deyi , Wang Xiong , Guo Ziyuan , Zhu Lingqiang , Tian Qing , Yang Xifei , Wang Jian-Zhi
Published: October 2015

Although Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has been reported for more than 100 years, there is still a lack of effective cures for this devastating disorder. Among the various obstacles that hold back drug development, the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is one of them. Here, we constructed a novel fusion peptide by linking the active domain of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) with an HIV-encoded transactivator of transcription (TAT) that has a strong membrane-penetrating property. After intraperitoneal injection, the eGFP-TAT could be robustly detected in different brain regions. By using scopolamine-induced rats and APPswe mice representing AD-like cholinergic deficits and amyloidosis, respectively, we found that intraperitoneal administration of the peptide significantly improved spatial memory with activation of the TrkB/ERK1/2/Akt pathway and restoration of several memory-associated proteins in both models. Administration of the peptide also modulated β-amyloid and tau pathologies in APPswe mice and it increased the amount of M receptor with modulation of acetylcholinesterase in scopolamine-induced rats. We conclude that intraperitoneal administration of our TAT-BDNF peptide could efficiently target multiple molecular pathways in the brain and improve the cognitive functions in AD-like rodent models.
Stability and conductivity of self assembled wires in a transverse electric field
Authors: Stephenson C. , Hubler A.
Published: October 2015

Self assembling wire networks typically evolve to minimize the resistance across electrical contacts which are frequently used in a manner comparable to Hebbian learning. In this work, we demonstrate that electrical fields can also be used to cause an increase in the resistance of the wire network. We show that if such a wire is exposed to a transverse electric field, the wire is deformed in a way that depends on it’s tensile strength. We measure the wire resistance as a function of transverse field for several field strengths and show that by deforming the wire, the amplitude of the resulting shape can be modified in a controllable fashion. At a critical value of the transverse field, we show that the wire loses stability. At this point we observe thresholding behavior in that the resistance increases abruptly to a maximum value and the wire is destroyed. This thresholding behavior suggests that self assembled wires may be manipulated via an transverse electric field and demonstrates that a mechanism exists for the destruction of undesirable connections.
Stimulation of Toll-Like Receptors profoundly influences the titer of polyreactive antibodies in the circulation
Authors: Gunti Sreenivasulu , Messer Ronald J. , Xu Chengfu , Yan Ming , Coleman William G. , Peterson Karin E. , Hasenkrug Kim J. , Notkins Abner L.
Published: October 2015

Polyreactive antibodies are a major component of the natural antibody repertoire and bind to a variety of structurally unrelated molecules. These antibodies are thought to provide a first line of defense against bacterial infections and play a major role in the clearance of apoptotic cells. What triggers the secretion of these antibodies has remained an enigma. Using a surrogate assay for measuring polyreactive antibodies, we found that about 50% of serum IgM is polyreactive and that stimulation of TLR4+/+, but not TLR4−/−, mice resulted in a 40 fold increase in polyreactive antibodies. Stimulation of TLRs 3, 7, 9 also increased the secretion of polyreactive antibodies. Infection with a virus or tissue damage induced by a toxin similarly led to an increase in polyreactive antibodies in MyD88+/+, but not MyD88−/− mice. We conclude that stimulation of TLRs is a key link in the mechanism of polyreactive antibody secretion into the circulation.
Generation of three-dimensional multiple spheroid model of olfactory ensheathing cells using floating liquid marbles
Authors: Vadivelu Raja K. , Ooi Chin H. , Yao Rebecca-Qing , Tello Velasquez Johana , Pastrana Erika , Diaz-Nido Javier , Lim Filip , Ekberg Jenny A. K. , Nguyen Nam-Trung , St John James A.
Published: October 2015

We describe a novel protocol for three-dimensional culturing of olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs), which can be used to understand how OECs interact with other cells in three dimensions. Transplantation of OECs is being trialled for repair of the paralysed spinal cord, with promising but variable results and thus the therapy needs improving. To date, studies of OEC behaviour in a multicellular environment have been hampered by the lack of suitable three-dimensional cell culture models. Here, we exploit the floating liquid marble, a liquid droplet coated with hydrophobic powder and placed on a liquid bath. The presence of the liquid bath increases the humidity and minimises the effect of evaporation. Floating liquid marbles allow the OECs to freely associate and interact to produce OEC spheroids with uniform shapes and sizes. In contrast, a sessile liquid marble on a solid surface suffers from evaporation and the cells aggregate with irregular shapes. We used floating liquid marbles to co-culture OECs with Schwann cells and astrocytes which formed natural structures without the confines of gels or bounding layers. This protocol can be used to determine how OECs and other cell types associate and interact while forming complex cell structures.
The Expression of c-Myb Correlates with the Levels of Rhabdomyosarcoma-specific Marker Myogenin
Authors: Kaspar Petr , Zikova Martina , Bartunek Petr , Sterba Jaroslav , Strnad Hynek , Kren Leos , Sedlacek Radislav
Published: October 2015

The transcription factor c-Myb is required for modulation of progenitor cells in several tissues, including skeletal muscle and its upregulation is observed in many human malignancies. Rhabdomyosarcomas (RMS) are a heterogeneous group of mesodermal tumors with features of developing skeletal muscle. Several miRNAs are downregulated in RMS, including miR-150, a negative regulator of c-Myb expression. Using the C2C12 myoblast cell line, a cellular model of skeletal muscle differentiation, we showed that miR-150 controls c-Myb expression mainly at the level of translation. We hypothesized that a similar mechanism of c-Myb regulation operates in RMS tumors. We examined expression of c-Myb by immunohistochemistry and revealed c-Myb positivity in alveolar and embryonal tumors, the two most common subgroups of RMS. Furthermore, we showed direct correlation between c-Myb production and myogenin expression. Interestingly, high myogenin levels indicate poor prognosis in RMS patients. c-Myb could, therefore, contribute to the tumor phenotype by executing its inhibitory role in skeletal muscle differentiation. We also showed that c-Myb protein is abundant in migratory C2C12 myoblasts and its ectopic expression potentiates cell motility. In summary, our results implicate that metastatic properties of some RMS subtypes might be linked to c-Myb function.
Progressive structural changes of Avicel, bleached softwood and bacterial cellulose during enzymatic hydrolysis
Authors: Kafle Kabindra , Shin Heenae , Lee Christopher M. , Park Sunkyu , Kim Seong H.
Published: October 2015

A comprehensive picture of structural changes of cellulosic biomass during enzymatic hydrolysis is essential for a better understanding of enzymatic actions and development of more efficient enzymes. In this study, a suite of analytical techniques including sum frequency generation (SFG) spectroscopy, infrared (IR) spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction (XRD) and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were employed for lignin-free model biomass samples—Avicel, bleached softwood and bacterial cellulose—to find correlations between the decrease in hydrolysis rate over time and the structural or chemical changes of biomass during the hydrolysis reaction. The results showed that the decrease in hydrolysis rate over time appears to correlate with the irreversible deposition of non-cellulosic species (either reaction side products or denatured enzymes, or both) on the cellulosic substrate surface. The crystallinity, degree of polymerization and meso-scale packing of cellulose do not seem to positively correlate with the decrease in hydrolysis rate observed for all three substrates tested in this study. It was also found that the cellulose Iα component of the bacterial cellulose is preferentially hydrolyzed by the enzyme than the cellulose Iβ component.
Bacterial growth, detachment and cell size control on polyethylene terephthalate surfaces
Authors: Wang Liyun , Fan Daming , Chen Wei , Terentjev Eugene M.
Published: October 2015

In medicine and food industry, bacterial colonisation on surfaces is a common cause of infections and severe illnesses. However, the detailed quantitative information about the dynamics and the mechanisms involved in bacterial proliferation on solid substrates is still lacking. In this study we investigated the adhesion and detachment, the individual growth and colonisation and the cell size control of Escherichia coli (E. coli) MG1655 on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) surfaces. The results show that the bacterial growth curve on PET exhibits the distinct lag and log phases, but the generation time is more than twice longer than in bulk medium. Single cells in the lag phase are more likely to detach than clustered ones in the log phase; clustered bacteria in micro-colonies have stronger adhesive bonds with surfaces and their neighbours with the progressing colonisation. We show that the cell size is under the density-dependent pathway control: when the adherent cells are at low density, the culture medium is responsible for coordinating cell division and cell size; when the clustered cells are at high population density, we demonstrate that the effect of quorum sensing causes the cell size decrease as the cell density on surfaces increases.
Writable electrochemical energy source based on graphene oxide
Authors: Wei Di
Published: October 2015

Graphene oxide (GO) was mainly used as raw material for various types of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) as a cost effective method to make graphene like materials. However, applications of its own unique properties such as extraordinary proton conductivity and super-permeability to water were overlooked. Here GO based battery-like planar energy source was demonstrated on arbitrary insulating substrate (e.g. polymer sheet/paper) by coating PEDOT, GO ink and rGO on Ag charge collectors. Energy from such GO battery depends on its length and one unit cell with length of 0.5 cm can generate energy capacity of 30 Ah/L with voltage up to 0.7 V when room temperature ionic liquid (RTIL) is added. With power density up to 0.4 W/cm3 and energy density of 4 Wh/L, GO battery was demonstrated to drive an electrochromic device. This work is the first attempt to generate decent energy using the fast transported water molecules inside GO. It provides very safe energy source that enables new applications otherwise traditional battery technology can not make including building a foldable energy source on paper and platform for futuristic wearable electronics. A disposable energy source made of GO was also written on a plastic glove to demonstrate wearability.
Teeth loss, teeth brushing and esophageal carcinoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Hui , Nie Shuping , Zhu Yuhui , Lu Ming
Published: October 2015

Esophageal carcinoma (EC) is a serious malignancy and its epidemiologic etiology is not fully explained. We performed this review to investigate the association between teeth loss and teeth brushing and the risk of EC. A systematic search was conducted to identify all relevant studies. The Q test and I2 statistic were used to examine between-study heterogeneity. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were considered by fixed or random effects models. Furthermore, we conducted subgroup analyses based on study design, the studies’ geographic regions and case type of origin. Modified Egger linear regression test was used to estimate publication bias. Ten articles were included. Pooled analyses indicated that teeth loss was associated with an increased risk of EC for Asians (OR, 1.52; 95% CI: 1.30, 1.78) and high frequency of teeth brushing was associated with a lower incidence of EC (OR, 0.62; 95%CI: 0.43, 0.89). Subgroup analyses showed consistent results and no publication bias existed. Teeth loss and teeth brushing play potential roles in the progressing of EC. People should take care of their oral health in daily life. And large well-designed researches are needed to fully describe the association between teeth health and EC risk.
Meat, dairy and plant proteins alter bacterial composition of rat gut bacteria
Authors: Zhu Yingying , Lin Xisha , Zhao Fan , Shi Xuebin , Li He , Li Yingqiu , Zhu Weiyun , Xu Xinglian , Li Chunbao , Zhou Guanghong
Published: October 2015

Long-term consumption of red meat has been considered a potential risk to gut health, but this is based on clinic investigations, excessive intake of fat, heme and some injurious compounds formed during cooking or additions to processed meat products. Whether intake of red meat protein affects gut bacteria and the health of the host remains unclear. In this work, we compared the composition of gut bacteria in the caecum, by sequencing the V4-V5 region of 16S ribosomal RNA gene, obtained from rats fed with proteins from red meat (beef and pork), white meat (chicken and fish) and other sources (casein and soy). The results showed significant differences in profiles of gut bacteria between the six diet groups. Rats fed with meat proteins had a similar overall structure of caecal bacterial communities separated from those fed non-meat proteins. The beneficial genus Lactobacillus was higher in the white meat than in the red meat or non-meat protein groups. Also, rats fed with meat proteins and casein had significantly lower levels of lipopolysaccharide-binding proteins, suggesting that the intake of meat proteins may maintain a more balanced composition of gut bacteria, thereby reducing the antigen load and inflammatory response in the host.
Smoke-free legislation and the incidence of paediatric respiratory infections and wheezing/asthma: interrupted time series analyses in the four UK nations
Authors: Been Jasper V. , Szatkowski Lisa , van Staa Tjeerd-Pieter , Leufkens Hubert G. , van Schayck Onno C. , Sheikh Aziz , de Vries Frank , Souverein Patrick
Published: October 2015

We investigated the association between introduction of smoke-free legislation in the UK (March 2006 for Scotland, April 2007 for Wales and Northern Ireland and July 2007 for England) and the incidence of respiratory diseases among children. We extracted monthly counts of new diagnoses of wheezing/asthma and RTIs among children aged 0–12 years from all general practices in the Clinical Practice Research Datalink during 1997–2012. Interrupted time series analyses were performed using generalised additive mixed models, adjusting for underlying incidence trends, population size changes, seasonal factors and pandemic influenza, as appropriate. 366,642 new wheezing/asthma diagnoses and 4,324,789 RTIs were observed over 9,536,003 patient-years. There was no statistically significant change in the incidence of wheezing/asthma after introduction of smoke-free legislation in England (incidence rate ratio (IRR) 0.94, 95% CI 0.81–1.09) or any other UK country (Scotland: IRR 0.99, 95% CI 0.83–1.19; Wales: IRR 1.09, 95% CI 0.89–1.35; Northern Ireland: IRR 0.96, 95% CI 0.76–1.22). Similarly no statistically significant changes in RTI incidence were demonstrated (England: IRR 0.95, 95% CI 0.86–1.06; Scotland: IRR 0.96, 95% CI 0.83–1.11; Wales: IRR 0.97, 95% CI 0.86–1.09; Northern Ireland: IRR 0.90, 95% CI 0.79–1.03). There were no demonstrable reductions in the incidence of paediatric wheezing/asthma or RTIs following introduction of smoke-free legislation in the UK.
Applications of Starch Nanocrystal-based Blends, Composites and Nanocomposites
Authors: Calado Verônica M. A. , Ramos Andresa
Published: October 2015

Starch nanocrystals are crystalline platelets obtained by the acid hydrolysis of starch. They are readily available, non-toxic, biodegradable and biocompatible and have high reactivity and easy processability. These properties, added to their capacity for exhibiting a reinforcing function similar to that of inorganic nanofillers, make them interesting for incorporation into polymeric matrices in order to improve the physical–mechanical properties. This chapter highlights recent research on the preparation, characterization and properties of polymeric matrix–starch nanocrystal nanocomposites. Results indicate that starch nanocrystals are able to improve the properties of polymers because strong interactions between the matrix and the nanofillers were formed. The particular characteristics, such as the polymer used as the matrix and the amount of nanofillers, that also affect the properties of the nanocomposites are discussed.
Starch-based Blends
Authors: Li Jiwei , Luo Xuegang
Published: October 2015

Recently, the development of environmentally friendly and biodegradable materials from starch has attracted increasing attention in an attempt to substitute petroleum-based materials, which present significant concerns in terms of pollution and sustainability. However, pure starch and thermoplastic starch (TPS) materials cannot meet all the application requirements owing to their poor mechanical properties and high sensitivity to moisture, hence a blending approach is essential. This chapter outlines the development of starch-based blends. Modification methods, processing techniques and current applications of starch-based blends are also discussed.
Fracture and Failure of Starch-based Composites
Authors: Bernal Celina R.
Published: October 2015

Although a large number of studies have already been published on biodegradable polymers and particularly on starch-based materials, most of them have not been specifically focused on their mechanical performance and their fracture behavior is usually disregarded. In order to extend the applications of this type of polymer and their blends and composites, a full understanding of their performance is required. Their ultimate performance properties, such as their fracture properties, should be deeply analyzed and the different toughening mechanisms operative in these materials and responsible for this behavior should be identified. The fracture behavior of these materials affects their resistance during processing, handling and transport, determining the extent to which biopolymers can replace synthetic polymers in many applications. In this chapter, recent results on the fracture and failure of different starch-based composites, including starch reinforced with natural fibers, carbon nanotubes or nanoclays, are discussed. A summary of these results and future trends on this issue are also presented.
A concise iterative method using the Bezier technique for baseline construction
Authors: Liu Yuanjie , Zhou Xiaoguang , Yu Yude
Published: October 2015

A novel approach, coined the Corner-Cutting method (CC, for short), is presented in this paper which affords the efficient construction of the baseline for analytical data streams.
Nanomaterial-based approaches for the detection and speciation of mercury
Authors: Xu Xiaohan , Li Yu-Feng , Zhao Jiating , Li Yunyun , Lin Jing , Li Bai , Gao Yuxi , Chen Chunying
Published: October 2015

Detection and speciation of Hg through the T–Hg–T coordination, Hg–S and/or Hg–Au/Ag interactions based colorimetric or fluorescent changes.
Electrochemistry-based approaches to low cost, high sensitivity, automated, multiplexed protein immunoassays for cancer diagnostics
Authors: Dixit Chandra K. , Kadimisetty Karteek , Otieno Brunah A. , Tang Chi , Malla Spundana , Krause Colleen E. , Rusling James F.
Published: October 2015

Early detection and reliable diagnostics are keys to effectively design cancer therapies with better prognoses.
Structures, physicochemical properties, and applications of T–HgII–T, C–AgI–C, and other metallo-base-pairs
Authors: Tanaka Yoshiyuki , Kondo Jiro , Sychrovský Vladimír , Šebera Jakub , Dairaku Takenori , Saneyoshi Hisao , Urata Hidehito , Torigoe Hidetaka , Ono Akira
Published: October 2015

In this feature article, recent progress and future perspectives of metal-mediated base-pairs such as T–Hg(ii)–T and C–Ag(i)–C are presented.
The first report of direct inhibitors that target the C-terminal MEEVD region on heat shock protein 90
Authors: Buckton L. K. , Wahyudi H. , McAlpine S. R.
Published: October 2015

Inhibitors binding to the C-terminus of Hsp90 and blocking access to the TPR co-chaperones.
Two-dimensional soft supramolecular networks
Authors: Palma Carlos-Andres , Ciesielski Artur , Öner Murat Anil , Schaeffer Gaël , Lehn Jean-Marie , Barth Johannes V. , Samorì Paolo
Published: October 2015

Soft networks are self-assembled at the solid/liquid interface and characterized by local disorder arising from multivalent flexible intermolecular interactions.
A rapid and facile preparation of novel macroporous silicone-based cryogels via photo-induced thiol–ene click chemistry
Authors: Ozmen Mehmet Murat , Fu Qiang , Kim Jinguk , Qiao Greg G.
Published: October 2015

We prepared novel cryogelsviafacile thiol–ene reaction at low temperatures, which can selectively remove oils with excellent recyclability.
Dipyrrolyphenol as a precursor of π-electronic anion that forms ion pairs with cations
Authors: Maeda Hiromitsu , Fukui Ayaka , Yamakado Ryohei , Yasuda Nobuhiro
Published: October 2015

A nitro-substituted dipyrrolylphenol was synthesized as a precursor of a π-electronic anion, whose phenolate (phenoxide) moiety upon deprotonation was stabilized by the hydrogen-bond-donating pyrrole NH, thus forming solid-state ion pairs with various cationic species.
Metal Ni-loaded g-C3N4for enhanced photocatalytic H2evolution activity: the change in surface band bending
Authors: Bi Lingling , Xu Dandan , Zhang Lijing , Lin Yanhong , Wang Dejun , Xie Tengfeng
Published: October 2015

The change of surface band bending, resulted from the difference of work function between g-C3N4and Ni, leading to a better separation efficiency.
A fluorosurfactant and photoreducible CuII-tren click catalyst: surfactant and catalytic properties at liquid/liquid interfaces
Authors: Jochyms Quentin , Guillot Pierre , Mignard Emmanuel , Vincent Jean-Marc
Published: October 2015

The fluorous copper(ii)-tren complex2is a powerful surfactant which strongly reduces the perfluorodecalin/water and diisopropyl ether/water interface tensions. When photoreduced by light it catalyzes the Huisgen click cycloaddition.
Slight synthetic changes eliciting different topologies: synthesis, structure and magnetic properties of novel dinuclear and nonanuclear dysprosium complexes
Authors: Kuo Che-Jung , Holmberg Rebecca J. , Lin Po-Heng
Published: October 2015

Using the Schiff-base ligand, H2hmc, dinuclear and nonanuclear compounds are generated through the addition of different bases. The unique Dy9 core structure of complex 2 was obtained and the magnetic properties of both compounds are fully studied.
Synthesis of water-soluble silicon-porphyrin: protolytic behaviour of axially coordinated hydroxy groups
Authors: Remello Sebastian Nybin , Kuttassery Fazalurahman , Hirano Takehiro , Nabetani Yu , Yamamoto Daisuke , Onuki Satomi , Tachibana Hiroshi , Inoue Haruo
Published: October 2015

A new water-soluble silicon(iv)-tetra(4-carboxyphenyl)porphyrin (SiTCPP) with silicon(iv), the second most abundant element on Earth, in the center of porphyrin was synthesized.
Dinuclear lanthanide(iii)/zinc(ii) complexes with methyl 2-pyridyl ketone oxime
Authors: Anastasiadis Nikolaos C. , Polyzou Christina D. , Kostakis George E. , Bekiari Vlasoula , Lan Yanhua , Perlepes Spyros P. , Konidaris Konstantis F. , Powell Annie K.
Published: October 2015

The bridging potential of 2-pyridyloximate ligands has been realised in a family of dinuclear ZnII/LnIII compounds (Ln = Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho) and the Dy member is a field induced SMM.
A highly stable but highly reactive zinc catalyst for transesterification supported by a bis(imidazole) ligand
Authors: Nakatake Daiki , Yokote Yuki , Matsushima Yoshimasa , Yazaki Ryo , Ohshima Takashi
Published: October 2015

We designed highly active and practical bis(imidazole)/zinc complexes for transesterification reactions.
Towards ultra-high peak capacities and peak-production rates using spatial three-dimensional liquid chromatography
Authors: Wouters Bert , Davydova Ekaterina , Wouters Sam , Vivo-Truyols Gabriel , Schoenmakers Peter J. , Eeltink Sebastiaan
Published: October 2015

Spatial three-dimensional (3D-)LC is based on a novel concept and potentially offers unprecedented resolving power.
Quantitative and highly selective sensing of sodium houttuyfonate via long-aliphatic chains hydrophobic assembly and aggregation-induced emission
Authors: Yu Feifei , Yang Yunxu , Wang Aizhi , Hu Biwei , Luo Xiaofei , Sheng Ruilong , Dong Yajun , Fan Weiping
Published: October 2015

An α-cyanostilbene derivative was synthesized for the selective detection of sodium houttuyfonate via AIEE with an obvious fluorescence enhancement.
Self-assembly synthesis of Co3O4/multiwalled carbon nanotube composites: an efficient enzyme-free glucose sensor
Authors: Prasad Raghavendra , Bhat Badekai Ramachandra
Published: October 2015

Electrochemical detection and sensing of glucose by direct glucose oxidation using a non-enzymatic sensor with high efficiency and greater stability.