bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication of high-quality graphene oxide nanoscrolls and application in supercapacitor
Authors: Fan Tianju , Zeng Wenjin , Niu Qiaoli , Tong Songzhao , Cai Kaiyu , Liu Yidong , Huang Wei , Min Yong , Epstein Arthur J
Published: April 2015

We reported a simple and effective way of fabricating one-dimensional (1D) graphene oxide nanoscrolls (GONS) from graphene oxide (GO) sheets through shock cooling by liquid nitrogen. The corresponding mechanism of rolling was proposed. One possibility is the formation of ice crystals during the shock cooling process in liquid nitrogen to be the driving force. The other might be due to the uneven stress of the sheets inside or outside ice during the lyophilization. After reducing, graphene nanoscrolls (GNS) exhibited good structural stability, high specific surface area, and high specific capacitance. The capacitance properties were investigated by cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge-discharge, and electrical impedance spectroscopy. A specific capacity of 156 F/g for the GNS at the current density of 1.0 A/g was obtained comparing with the specific capacity of 108 F/g for graphene sheets. Those results indicated that GNS-based rolling structure could be a kind of promising electrode material for supercapacitors and batteries.
In Vivo Patch-Clamp Analysis of the Antinociceptive Actions of TRPA1 Activation in the Spinal Dorsal Horn
Authors: Yamanaka Manabu , Taniguchi Wataru , Nishio Naoko , Hashizume Hiroshi , Yamada Hiroshi , Yoshida Munehito , Nakatsuka Terumasa
Published: April 2015

Background

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are nonselective cation channels expressed in a variety of sensory structures, and are important molecular mediators of thermal, mechanical, cellular and chemical signals. We investigated the function of one key member of the TRP superfamily, TRPA1, in the spinal dorsal horn using in vivo patch-clamp recordings.

Results

The application of allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), a TRPA1 agonist, significantly increased the frequency and amplitude of inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs; holding potential (VH) = 0 mV) as well as excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs; VH = −70 mV) in substantia gelatinosa (SG) neurons. The AITC-induced increases in EPSC frequency and amplitude were resistant to the Na+ channel blocker tetrodotoxin (TTX). In the presence of the glutamate receptor antagonists CNQX and AP5, AITC did not generate any synaptic activity. The AITC-induced increases in IPSC frequency and amplitude were abolished by TTX or glutamate receptor antagonists. Moreover, the duration of IPSCs enhanced by TRPA1 activation were significantly longer than those of EPSCs enhanced by activation of this channel in the spinal dorsal horn. AITC induced hyperpolarization of the membrane potential of SG neurons in the spinal cord but depolarized the membrane potential in the presence of TTX. Furthermore, we examined the effects of mechanical stimuli to the skin during TRPA1 activation in the spinal dorsal horn in normal rats in both voltage-clamp and current-clamp modes. In the peripheral tissue stimuli test, AITC significantly suppressed EPSCs evoked by pinch or air puff stimulation of the skin. In current-clamp mode, AITC significantly suppressed excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) evoked by pinch stimuli.

Conclusions

TRPA1 appears to be localized not only at presynaptic terminals on SG neurons, enhancing glutamate release, but also in the terminals of primary afferents innervating spinal inhibitory interneurons, which have synaptic interactions with SG neurons. This study offers further insight into the mechanisms underlying the possible antinociceptive actions of TRPA1 activation in the spinal dorsal horn. Our findings suggest that pharmacological activation of spinal TRPA1 channels may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of pain.
A depauperate immune repertoire precedes evolution of sociality in bees
Authors: Barribeau Seth M , Sadd Ben M , du Plessis Louis , Brown Mark JF , Buechel Severine D , Cappelle Kaat , Carolan James C , Christiaens Olivier , Colgan Thomas J , Erler Silvio , Evans Jay , Helbing Sophie , Karaus Elke , Lattorff H Michael G , Marxer Monika , Meeus Ivan , Näpflin Kathrin , Niu Jinzhi , Schmid-Hempel Regula , Smagghe Guy , Waterhouse Robert M , Yu Na , Zdobnov Evgeny M , Schmid-Hempel Paul
Published: April 2015

Background

Sociality has many rewards, but can also be dangerous, as high population density and low genetic diversity, common in social insects, is ideal for parasite transmission. Despite this risk, honeybees and other sequenced social insects have far fewer canonical immune genes relative to solitary insects. Social protection from infection, including behavioral responses, may explain this depauperate immune repertoire. Here, based on full genome sequences, we describe the immune repertoire of two ecologically and commercially important bumblebee species that diverged approximately 18 million years ago, the North American Bombus impatiens and European Bombus terrestris.

Results

We find that the immune systems of these bumblebees, two species of honeybee, and a solitary leafcutting bee, are strikingly similar. Transcriptional assays confirm the expression of many of these genes in an immunological context and more strongly in young queens than males, affirming Bateman’s principle of greater investment in female immunity. We find evidence of positive selection in genes encoding antiviral responses, components of the Toll and JAK/STAT pathways, and serine protease inhibitors in both social and solitary bees. Finally, we detect many genes across pathways that differ in selection between bumblebees and honeybees, or between the social and solitary clades.

Conclusions

The similarity in immune complement across a gradient of sociality suggests that a reduced immune repertoire predates the evolution of sociality in bees. The differences in selection on immune genes likely reflect divergent pressures exerted by parasites across social contexts.
Inter-individual differences in the gene content of human gut bacterial species
Authors: Zhu Ana , Sunagawa Shinichi , Mende Daniel R , Bork Peer
Published: April 2015

Background

Gene content differences in human gut microbes can lead to inter-individual phenotypic variations such as digestive capacity. It is unclear whether gene content variation is caused by differences in microbial species composition or by the presence of different strains of the same species; the extent of gene content variation in the latter is unknown. Unlike pan-genome studies of cultivable strains, the use of metagenomic data can provide an unbiased view of structural variation of gut bacterial strains by measuring them in their natural habitats, the gut of each individual in this case, representing native boundaries between gut bacterial populations. We analyzed publicly available metagenomic data from fecal samples to characterize inter-individual variation in gut bacterial species.

Results

A comparison of 11 abundant gut bacterial species showed that the gene content of strains from the same species differed, on average, by 13% between individuals. This number is based on gene deletions only and represents a lower limit, yet the variation is already in a similar range as observed between completely sequenced strains of cultivable species. We show that accessory genes that differ considerably between individuals can encode important functions, such as polysaccharide utilization and capsular polysaccharide synthesis loci.

Conclusion

Metagenomics can yield insights into gene content variation of strains in complex communities, which cannot be predicted by phylogenetic marker genes alone. The large degree of inter-individual variability in gene content implies that strain resolution must be considered in order to fully assess the functional potential of an individual's human gut microbiome.
The primary study of low-dose pancreas perfusion by 640- slice helical CT: a whole-organ perfusion
Authors: Tan Zhengwu , Miao Qi , Li Xiaoling , Ren Ke , Zhao Yu , Zhao Li , Li Xuedan , Liu Yi , Chai Ruimei , Xu Ke
Published: April 2015

To discuss the feasibility of low-dose whole-pancreas imaging utilizing 640-slice dynamic volume CT.80 patients (40 cases of normal pancreas and 40 patients supposed of having pancreatic carcinoma or focal pancreatic space-occupying lesions were mainly refered) referred for CT pancreas perfusion were enrolled in the study. 80 patients randomly assigned to 3 groups: Group ① (whole sequence). Group ② (odd number sequence). Group ③ (even number group)(Compared to ①, the scanning times and effective radiate dose of ② and ③ decreased about 50% respectively). The head, body, tail of each normal pancreas without any pancreatic disease, lesion and lesion-surrounding areas of each pancreatic cancer were selected as ROI, and tissue peak, blood flow are measured.According to pathology and clinical materials, 27 patients were diagnosed as pancreatic cancer; 40 patients were diagnosed as normal pancreas. The tissue peak and blood flow of the head, body, tail of normal pancreas without any pancreatic disease are 109.63 ± 16.60 and 131.90 ± 41.61, 104.38 ± 19.39 and 127.78 ± 42.52, 104.55 ± 15. 44 and 123.50 ± 33.44 respectively. The tissue peak and blood flow of pancreatic cancer is 59.59 ± 18.20 and 60.00 ± 15.36. For and between each group, there is no significant statistical difference for the tissue peak and blood flow of normal areas of the head, body, tail of normal pancreas. There is statistical difference for the tissue peak and blood flow of lesion and lesion-surrounding areas of pancreatic cancer in each group. However, there is no statistical difference for the tissue peak and blood flow of normal and diseasing areas between 3 groups.Low-dose whole-pancreas perfusion with 640-slice dynamic volume CT is feasible.
Utility of five commonly used immunohistochemical markers TTF‐1, Napsin A, CK7, CK5/6 and P63 in primary and metastatic adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma of the lung: a retrospective study of 246 fine needle aspiration cases
Authors: Gurda Grzegorz T , Zhang Lei , Wang Yuting , Chen Li , Geddes Susan , Cho William C , Askin Frederic , Gabrielson Edward , Li Qing Kay
Published: April 2015

Background

Fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy plays a critical role in the diagnosis and staging of lung primary and metastatic lung carcinoma. Accurate subclassification of adenocarcinoma (ADC) and/or squamous cell carcinoma (SqCC) is crucial for the targeted therapy. However, the distinction between ADC and SqCC may be difficult in small FNA specimens. Here, we have retrospectively evaluated the utility of TTF‐1, Napsin A, CK7, P63 and CK5/6 immunohistochemical (IHC) markers in the distinguishing and subclassification of ADC and SqCC.

Methods

A total of 246 FNA cases were identified by a computer search over a two‐year period, including 102 primary NSCLC and 144 primary NSCLC which had metastasized to other sites. The immunostaining patterns of TTF‐1, Napsin A, CK7, P63 and CK5/6 were correlated with the histological diagnosis of the tumor.

Results

In 72 primary ADCs, TTF‐1, Napsin A and CK7 showed a sensitivity and specificity of 84.5%/96.4%, 92.0%/100%, and 93.8%/50.0%. In 30 primary SqCCs, CK5/6 and P63 showed a sensitivity and specificity of 100%/77.8% and 91.7%/78.3%. In 131 metastatic ADCs, Napsin A showed the highest specificity (100%), versus TTF‐1 (87.5%) and CK7 (25%) but decreased sensitivity (67.8% versus 86.9% and 100%); whereas in 13 metastatic SqCCs, CK5/6 and P63 showed a sensitivity/specificity of 100%/84.6% and 100%/68.4%. Bootstrap analysis showed that the combination of TTF‐1/CK7, TTF‐1/Napsin A and TTF‐1/CK7/Napsin A had a sensitivity/specificity of 0.960/0.732, 0.858/0.934, 0.972/0.733 for primary lung ADCs and 0.992/0.642, 0.878/0.881, 0.993/0.618 for metastatic lung ADCs.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that IHC markers had variable sensitivity and specificity in the subclassification of primary and metastatic ADC and SqCC. Based on morphological findings, an algorithm with the combination use of markers aided in the subclassification of NSCLCs in difficult cases.
New Occurrences of Social Wasps (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) in Semideciduous Seasonal Montane Forest and Tropical Dry Forest in Minas Gerais and in the Atlantic Forest in the State of Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Souza Marcos Magalhães , Pires Epifânio Porfiro , Eugênio Rafael , Silva-Filho Reinildes
Published: April 2015

The occurrence of Mischocyttarus consimilis Zikán, Mischocyttarus ignotus Zikán, Mischocyttarus nomurae Richards and Mischocyttarus paraguayensis Zikán for the state of Minas Gerais and Mischocyttarus garbei Zikán for the state of Rio de Janeiro are registered for the first time, collected through active search and attractive traps.

Novos Registros de Vespas Sociais (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) em Floresta Estacional Semidecidual Montana e Mata Seca em Minas Gerais e na Mata Atlântica no Estado do Rio de Janeiro

Resumo. Neste trabalho é registrado pela primeira vez a ocorrência de Mischocyttarus consimilis Zikán, Mischocyttarus ignotus Zikán, Mischocyttarus nomurae Richards e Mischocyttarus paraguayensis Zikán para o estado de Minas Gerais e Mischocyttarus garbei Zikán para o estado do Rio de Janeiro coletadas por meio de busca ativa e armadilhas atrativas.
Formigas em Carcaças de Rattus norvegicus (Berkenhout) em uma Área de Cerrado no Sudeste do Brasil: Riqueza e Abundância
Authors: Fonseca Alysson Rodrigo , Campos Renata Bernardes Faria , Silva Geiziane Ferreira
Published: April 2015

Buscou-se conhecer as principais espécies de formigas associadas a carcaças de Rattus norvegicus (Berkenhout) ao longo do processo de decomposição, nas diferentes estações do ano em uma área de Cerrado. Em cada uma das quatro estações foi disposta em campo uma carcaça e ao redor desta foram instaladas cinco armadilhas do tipo pitfall. As formigas presentes na bandeja com a carcaça e nas armadilhas foram coletadas diariamente até o final da decomposição em cada uma das estações. Foram amostradas formigas pertencentes a vinte e três espécies, sendo 63,85% do total de indivíduos nas armadilhas e o restante coletado diretamente nas bandejas. Foram registradas a presença de espécies predadoras e nectarívoras. A escassez de recursos disponíveis no ambiente no período seco, possivelmente faz com que as carcaças sejam uma importante fonte de recursos, explicando a maior riqueza de espécies ativas nas proximidades da bandeja (coletadas nas armadilhas de queda). Esta maior atividade também se reflete em maior número de espécies e indivíduos nas carcaças. O oposto também parece ocorrer uma vez que na campanha de outono, final da estação chuvosa, notou-se a menor abundância de formigas nas carcaças. A presença de formigas nas carcaças ao longo de todas as fases do processo de decomposição e em todas as estações do ano evidenciou a importância da associação entre representantes deste táxon e carcaças em ambientes de Cerrado.

Ants on Rattus norvegicus (Berkenhout) Carcass in a Savannah Area in Southeastern Brazil: Richness and Abundance

Abstract. We studied the main species of ants associated with carcasses of Rattus norvegicus (Berkenhout) during the decomposition process, in different seasons in a savannah area. In each of the four seasons a carcass was disposed in the field and we installed around it five pitfall traps. Ants were collected from the tray containing the carcass and from the traps daily, until the end of decomposition in each season. Ants belonging to twenty-three species, with 63.85% of the total individuals collected in the traps and the rest directly in the trays, were sampled. The presence of predatory and nectarivorous species were registered. The scarcity of available resources in the environment in the dry season possibly makes the carcasses important food sources, explaining the higher richness of active species near the trays (collected in the pitfall traps). This increased activity is also reflected in a higher number of species and individuals in the carcasses. The opposite also seems to occur once in the autumn, end of wet season, we observed lower abundance of ants in the carcasses. The presence of ants on carcasses throughout all stages of the decomposition process and in all seasons of the year highlighted the importance of the association between representatives of this taxon and carcasses in Cerrado environments.
O Grupo costatus de Ommatius Wiedemann (Diptera, Asilidae) no Brasil: Novos Registros e Distribuição de Ommatius costatus Rondani e Ommatius orenoquensis Bigot
Authors: Vieira Rodrigo
Published: April 2015

Os limites geográficos de quatro espécies de Ommatiinae são estendidos: Ommatius complanatus Scarbrough, 1993; Ommatius spatulatus Curran, 1928; Ommatius spinosus Scarbrough, 1993; Ommatius uncatus Scarbrough, 1993. Além disso, um espécime adicional de Ommatius didymus Scarbrough, 1993 é examinado e suas variações morfológicas são anotadas. São fornecidos ainda registros geográficos de Ommatius costatus Rondani e Ommatius orenoquensis Bigot para o Brasil.

The costatus Group of Ommatius Wiedemann (Diptera, Asilidae) in Brazil: New Records and Distribution of Ommatius costatus Rondani and Ommatius orenoquensis Bigot.

Abstract. The geographic ranges of four species of Ommatiinae are extended: Ommatius complanatus Scarbrough, 1993; Ommatius spatulatus Curran, 1928; Ommatius spinosus Scarbrough, 1993; Ommatius uncatus Scarbrough, 1993. Furthermore, an additional specimen of Ommatius didymus Scarbrough, 1993 is examined and their morphological variations are noted. Geographical records of Ommatius costatus Rondani, 1850 and Ommatius orenoquensis Bigot, 1876 are listed from Brazil.
Dancing in the merry month of May
Authors: Neville Sarah
Published: April 2015

May Day is an annual tradition, which is celebrated throughout the country on or around the first weekend in May; planned activities can support children to learn British values.
The flaw in the system
Authors: Webb Penny
Published: April 2015

This article explores the emotional impact of flawed inspections and the problems involved in trying to navigate the complaints system, which is heavily loaded against childminders.
Laryngoscopes in anaesthetic practice: what's available to ODPs?
Authors: Higginson Ray , Parry Andy
Published: April 2015

The laryngoscope is a vital piece of surgical equipment that all operating department practitioners (ODPs) need to be familiar with. It was initially developed to perform laryngoscopy, a procedure that is used to obtain a view of the vocal chords and the glottis. This is done to enable endotracheal intubation that will facilitate mechanical ventilation of a patient during a surgical procedure ( Adam and Osbourne, 2005 ). This paper will outline different types of laryngoscope blades and in what situations they may be used. Issues surrounding cross-contamination of laryngoscopes and the benefits of adopting single-use blades into practice will also be explored.
Prolonged stopover duration characterises migration strategy and constraints of a long-distance migrant songbird
Authors: Arlt Debora , Olsson Peter , Fox James W , Low Matthew , Pärt Tomas
Published: April 2015

Stopover behaviour is a central element of migration strategies. But in recent geolocator studies, despite now being able to track individual songbirds during their entire migration, their stopover behaviour has received little attention. We used light-sensitive geolocators to identify the migratory routes and schedules of 12 northern wheatears (Oenanthe oenanthe) breeding in Sweden. Three geolocators collected temperature data complementing inferences from light data by providing additional information on behaviour during migration. The wheatears performed a slow migration with considerable stopover time (84%/76% of autumn/spring migration), with short stops while traveling through Europe, and a prolonged stopover period in both autumn and spring in the Mediterranean region. Spring migration was faster than autumn migration, mainly because of decreased stopover time. Migration routes and time schedules were similar to those from a German breeding population. Compared to wheatears breeding in Alaska with a three-fold migration distance, Swedish wheatears spent more time during stopovers during autumn and spring migration, suggesting less time constraints and potential flexibility in migration schedules. The finding of prolonged stopovers, similar to other recent geolocator studies, shows that temporary residency periods may be common. This changes our current view on stopover ecology to one where temporary residency periods are part of spatio-temporal strategies optimising resource use during the entire annual cycle.
Molecular detection of Dirofilaria immitis, Hepatozoon canis, Babesia spp., Anaplasma platys and Ehrlichia canis in dogs on Costa Rica
Authors: Wei Lanjing , Kelly Patrick , Ackerson Kate , El-Mahallawy Heba S. , Kaltenboeck Bernhard , Wang Chengming
Published: April 2015

Although vector-borne diseases are important causes of morbidity and mortality in dogs in tropical areas, there is little information on these conditions in Costa Rica. In PCRs of blood from dogs in Costa Rica, we did not detect DNAs of Rickettsia (R.) felis and Coxiella (C.) burnetii but we did find evidence of infection with Dirofilaria (D.) immitis (9/40, 22.5%), Hepatozoon (H.) canis (15/40, 37.5%), Babesia spp. (10/40, 25%; 2 with B. gibsoni and 8 with B. vogeli), Anaplasma (A.) platys (3/40, 7.5%) and Ehrlichia (E.) canis (20/40, 50%). Nine dogs (22.5%) were free of any vector-borne pathogens while 14 (35%) were infected with a single pathogen, 11 (27.5%) with two, 4 (10%) with three, 1 (2.5%) with four, and 1 (2.5%) with five pathogens. Dogs in Costa Rica are commonly infected with vector-borne agents
Biological and molecular characterization of a Trypanosoma cruzi isolate obtained from Panstrongylus megistus captured in Sao Paulo State, Brazil
Authors: Martins Luciamáre P.A. , Castanho Roberto E.P. , Therezo Altino L.S. , Ribeiro Aline R. , Lima Luciana , Teixeira Marta M.G. , Sperança Márcia A. , Rodrigues Vera L.C. , Rosa João A. da
Published: April 2015

An isolate of Trypanosoma cruzi obtained from P. megistus captured in the peridomicile area of a home in Santo Antonio do Jardim city in the State of Sao Paulo, denominated T. cruzi Mogi, was characterized biologically and molecularly. The RFLP analysis of the D7 divergent domain in the 24Sα rDNA and of the mini-exon positioned the T. cruzi isolate within the TcI group. Phylogenetic analysis performed with the trypanosomatid barcode confirmed that the isolate belongs to the TcI group, with high homology to the 3014 c1 T.cruzi strain. The biological characterization of the isolate in rats showed a prepatent period of about 8 days, low parasitemia and tropism for cardiac, skeletal and colonic muscles. In Swiss mice the T. cruzi Mogi isolate showed a prepatent period of about 22 days, intermittent parasitemia in some animals, and tropism for cardiac and colonic muscles. Despite the inherent difficulty of identifying correlations amongst the molecular and biological characteristics of different T. cruzi groups, the tropism for colonic muscle demonstrated by T. cruzi Mogi represented a peculiarity of this isolate within the TcI group.
Population dynamic of two digenean species parasitizing the grass shrimp Palaemonetes argentinus Nobili 1901 (Decapoda: Palaemonidae) in a lentic environment from Argentina
Authors: Parietti Manuela , Merlo Matías Javier , Etchegoin Jorge Alejandro
Published: April 2015

The microphallids Microphallus szidati and Levinseniella cruzi parasitized at least three crustacean species as second intermediate host in Mar Chiquita coastal lagoon: the crabs Neohelice granulata and Cyrtograpsus angulatus and the grass shrimp Palaemonetes argentinus. Palaemonetes argentinus acts as host for both metacercariae in brackish and freshwater environments; however the seasonal variations of these digeneans in freshwater habitats remain unexplored. The aim of the present study was to analyze the seasonal dynamic of the larval digenean populations parasitizing P. argentinus in a lentic environment. From the total sample of 600 P. argentinus collected seasonally, 28.370 and 194 metacercariae of M. szidati and L. cruzi, respectively, were recovered. Microphallus szidati was characterized by high prevalence, 100% in all seasons. In contrast, L. cruzi presented low prevalence values, which increased towards summer. The two species of digeneans exhibit seasonal fluctuations in intensity of infection, which was related to host size. Temporal variation of larval digenean assemblage in the crustacean host is probably associated with the presence of the other hosts included in their life cycles. The high values of prevalence found for M. szidati in Nahuel Rucá lagoon suggest that P. argentinus could favor the contact between the larval digenean and the definitive hosts, establishing the presence of M. szidati also in freshwater environments and, thus, increasing the presence of the parasite in different areas of Mar Chiquita coastal lagoon.
Further studies on Toxascaris leonina (Linstow, 1902) (Ascaridida: Ascarididae) from Felis lynx (Linnaeus) and Panthera leo (Linnaeus) (Carnivora: Felidae)
Authors: Xue Li-Mei , Chai Jing-Bo , Guo Yan-Ning , Zhang Lu-Ping , Li Liang
Published: April 2015

Toxascaris leonina (Linstow, 1902) is a most common intestinal parasite of various animals in Felidae and Canidae. In the present paper, light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to study the morphological aspects of adult worms of this nematode in detail, based on the material collected from Panthera leo (Linnaeus) and Felis lynx (Linnaeus) (Carnivora: Felidae) in China. The results showed that there were some morphometric differences between the present material and the previous studies, including the body size, the width and length of cervical alae, the number of denticles on each lip and the tail length of the female. Previously unreported morphological features were also revealed. These supplementary morphological and morphometric data contributed to a more accurate identification of this worldwide distributed ascarid nematode.
Description of a new species of Podocotyle Dujardin, 1845 (Digenea: Opecoelidae: Plagioporinae) from the cusk-eel, Luciobrotula corethromycter Cohen, 1964 (Ophidiiformes: Ophidiidae), from the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea
Authors: Blend Charles K. , Dronen Norman O.
Published: April 2015

Podocotyle bathyhelminthos n. sp. (Opecoelidae: Plagioporinae) is described from the cusk-eel, Luciobrotula corethromycter Cohen, 1964 (Ophidiiformes: Ophidiidae), collected at depths of 622-1,280 m in the northern Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea off Colombia. The new species is distinguished by possessing a combination of the following features: an elongate oval body shape, a sucker width ratio of 1:1.4-1.9, deeply lobed and irregularly-shaped testes, a cirrus-sac that extends just in to the hindbody, a trilobed ovary and vitellarium that extend to the ventral sucker level. Several unique features in P. bathyhelminthos n. sp. were not present in all, or almost all, recognized species of Podocotyle including a conspicuous deep cleft at the posterior end of the worm, a small transverse ridge on the ventral surface immediately anterior to the ventral sucker, uterine loops extending ventral to the caeca and, at times, lateral to the caeca, a thick-walled metraterm extending 1/3 to 1/2 the length of the cirrus-sac and P. bathyhelminthos n. sp. parasitizes a deep water piscine host. Podocotyle etheostomae Aliff, 1973 is declared a nomen nudum. A brief discussion of Podocotyle Dujardin, 1845 in deep waters is presented, and a gastropod, caridean shrimp and cusk-eel are hypothesized as hosts in the life cycle of P. bathyhelminthos n. sp. in the deep sea.
On a new species of Cosmocerca (Nematoda: Cosmocercidae) from Microhyla rubra (Anura: Microhylidae) from West Bengal, India
Authors: Sou Sujan K. , Nandi Anadi P.
Published: April 2015

Cosmocerca microhylae sp. nov., recovered from the rectum of a red narrow-mouthed frog, Microhyla rubra (Jerdon, 1854) (Anura: Microhylidae), collected from Bolpur in the Birbhum district of West Bengal, India, is described and figured. This species is similar to C. acanthurum, C. banyulensis, C. cruzi, C. japonica, C. kalesari, C. novaeguineae, C. ornata, C. paraguayensis, C. parva, C. podicipinus and C. travassosi in having 5 pairs of plectanes supporting preanal papillae but differs from these species by smaller size, absence of somatic papillae in females and having only one pair of adanal papillae in males and one pair postanal papillae in females. Cosmocerca microhylae sp. nov. represents 27th species assigned to the genus, and 4
First report of Hepatozoon (Apicomplexa: Adeleorina) from king ratsnakes (Elaphe carinata) in Shanghai, with description of a new species
Authors: Han Hongyu , Wu Youling , Dong Hui , Zhu Shunhai , Li Liujia , Zhao Qiping , Wu Di , Pei Enle , Wang Yange , Huang Bing
Published: April 2015

Hepatozoon species are the most common hemoparasites of snakes. In this study, Hepatozoon parasites were examined for the first time in king rat snakes (Elaphe carinata) from Shanghai, China. All 10 snakes were found to be infected with Hepatozoon gamonts. The gamonts were folded back in a hook-wise fashion for about 3 μm at one end. Parasitemia levels ranged from 4-43 infected erythrocytes per 1,000 examined. The gamonts changed the morphology of the parasitized erythrocytes. Although the gamonts showed some distinct variations in both the parasite and its nucleus, phylogenetic analysis indicated that all the E. carinata in this study formed a monophyletic group, and were distinct from all other published Hepatozoon species. A new species, Hepatozoon chinensis, was proposed based on the molecular and morphologic evidence.
The lack of effectiveness of hyperbaric oxygenation as a treatment for Leishmania major in a mouse model
Authors: Livneh Ayelet , Youngster Ilan , El-On Yossef , Berkovitch Matitiahu , Abu-Kishk Ibrahim
Published: April 2015

We aimed to study the effectiveness of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HOT) (100% oxygen at 2 ATA for 70 minutes each session for 20 consecutive days) on BALB/c male mice infected with Leishmania major. Fifty-one mice were assigned to six groups. Group 1 was treated with HOT from 1 day after the inoculation. In Groups 2-5, treatment began when the cutaneous lesions appeared. Group 2 received HOT only, Group 3 received topical therapy with Leshcutan only, Groups 4 and 5 received a combination of HOT and Leshcutan for 5 and 10 days respectively, and Group 6 did not receive any treatment (control group). When comparing the control group with Group 1, treatment with HOT in Group 1 did not significantly affect the time of the appearance of the lesions. In contrast, mice treated with Leshcutan demonstrated a significant difference in lesion size and spleen dimensions as compared to the rest of the mice (p<0.001). The results show that HOT treatment has no positive effect on the course of Leishmaniasis in a BALB/c mice model infected with Leishmania major. Further studies are needed with a mouse model closer to humans and with different HOT protocols.
Increased plasma soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor levels in systemic sclerosis: possible association with microvascular abnormalities and extent of fibrosis
Authors: Legány Nóra , Toldi Gergely , Distler Jörg H.W. , Beyer Christian , Szalay Balázs , Kovács László , Vásárhelyi Barna , Balog Attila
Published: April 2015

Urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) is a key component of the fibrinolytic system involved in extracellular matrix remodeling and angiogenesis. Novel animal models supported the key role of uPAR not only in fibrosis but also in systemic sclerosis (SSc)-related microvascular abnormalities. The aim of this study was to investigate plasma soluble uPAR (suPAR) levels in SSc, and their association with organ-specific involvement.

suPAR concentrations were measured by ELISA in SSc patient (n=83) and in healthy controls (n=29). Simultaneously, CRP and ESR were assessed. Detailed clinical data including skin, lung, heart and microvascular characteristics were evaluated at sampling.

suPAR values were higher in SSc patients than in controls. Subgroup analysis showed higher suPAR values in diffuse cutaneous- than in limited cutaneous SSc and correlated with anti-Scl-70+. suPAR levels also associated with pulmonary function test parameters of fibrosis, presence of microvascular lesions (e.g., Raynaud phenomenon, naifold capillaroscopic abnormalities and digital ulcers) and arthritis.

Our data indicate that suPAR might be a valuable early diagnostic marker of SSc which also correlates with disease severity.
The Religiousness of “Confucianism”, and the Revival of Confucian Religion in China Today / 关于“儒”的宗教性与儒教在当代中国的复兴
Authors: Lizhu Fan , Na Chen
Published: April 2015

The English term “Confucianism” may refer to three different concepts in the Chinese language: the school of Confucianism, scholastic tradition of Confucianism, and the religious tradition of Confucianism. From a sociological perspective, Confucianism as an official political orthodoxy no longer exists. However, Confucianism as a cultural tradition remains, and it is expressed in various aspects of the Chinese social life, which echoes the diffused characteristics of a typical Chinese religion. In this research, we try to demonstrate that the religiousness of Confucianism fulfills the cultural and ethical needs of the on-going new religious movement in China. Also, it helps modern people in their search for a life of meaning in times of cultural crisis and socialanomie.
Fabrication of paper-based analytical device by silanisation of filter cellulose using alkyltrimethoxysilane coupled with UV radiation
Authors: Cai Long-Fei , Zhong Ming-Hua , Chen Wen-Yin , Xu Chun-Xiu , Wu Yun-Ying
Published: April 2015

A method was developed for the fabrication of microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPAD). This method was based on the silanisation of cellulose in filter paper using alkyltrimethoxysilane coupled with UV radiation. The filter paper sheet was hydrophobised by immersion in an octadecyltrimethoxysilane/heptane (OTMS/heptane) solution (0.25 vol. %) containing 5 vol. % of ethyl acetate (EtOAc). The hydrophobic-hydrophilic contrast was generated on the filter paper after the hydrophobised paper sheet was exposed to UV light with a metal mask creating the desired pattern on the sheet. The exposed area was oxidised to create a hydrophilic area, while the hydrophobic area was protected by the metal mask. The optimal conditions for the fabrication of μPAD were studied; these included ethyl acetate concentration (CEtOAc), immersion time, octadecyltrimethoxysilane concentration (COTMS) and exposure time. This method is costeffective and simple. In addition, different functional groups could be further grafted for various assay purposes. To demonstrate the feasibility of the μPAD in analytical applications, a flowershaped μPAD with eight channels and eight detection units was fabricated and used to determine the nitrite content in pickled vegetables. The nitrite content (124 μg g
Self-penetrating and interpenetrating 3D metal–organic frameworks constructed from 4-(4-carboxyphenoxy)-phthalic acid and N-donor auxiliary ligands
Authors: Wu He , Sun Wu-Juan , Zhao Wen-Jie , Shi Ting , Liao Xu-Zhao , Yang Xu-Wu
Published: April 2015

Two new interesting entangled structures, namely, [Ni
A concise route to 4-aminomethylpyrazoles and 4-aminomethylisoxazoles from acetylacetone-derived hexahydropyrimidines under mild conditions
Authors: Saleh Abdullah I. , Abu-Safieh Kayed A. , Salameh Bader A.
Published: April 2015

Acetylacetone was successfully used as a precursor of 4-aminomethylpyrazoles and 4-aminomethylisoxazoles in a two step process at ambient temperature. In the first step, acetylacetone was transformed to the corresponding hexahydropyrimidines (1,3-diazinanes) via two consecutive one-pot Mannich aminomethylations. Hexahydropyrimidines were then treated with hydrazine, phenylhydrazine, and hydroxylamine, respectively, to obtain the corresponding 4-aminomethylpyrazoles and 4-aminomethylisoxazoles in good yields. The hexahydropyrimidine ring decomposed providing the title compounds and a reasonable mechanism has been proposed.
Photochromic and molecular switching behaviour of Schiff base-containing pyrazolone ring
Authors: Surati Pratima R. , Shah Bhavna A.
Published: April 2015

A new Schiff base compound, 4-[[(5-hydroxy-3-methyl-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)methylidene] amino]-1,5-dimethyl-2-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-3-one (I ), was synthesised and characterised by elemental analysis and LC-MS, FTIR and 1H NMR spectra. The photochromic property of the synthesised compound investigated under 365 nm UV irradiation can be observed by solid state absorption and fluorescence spectra. The kinetic study showed that the photochromic reaction was of the pseudo-first-order. The photo-isomerisation was due to photo-induced intermolecular hydrogen bonding, which resulted in enol to keto transformation. The molecular switching behaviour was studied in solution with two inputs in three different systems (OH
Antioxidant activity of rosemary extracts in solution and embedded in polymeric systems
Authors: Ionita Petre , Dinoiu Vasile , Munteanu Cornel , Turcu Ioana Maria , Tecuceanu Victorita , Zaharescu Traian , Oprea Eliza , Ilie Cornelia , Anghel Dan , Ionita Gabriela
Published: April 2015

The rosemary extract was encapsulated in polyethylene or in covalently-based network gels. The covalent gels were obtained by the reaction of isocyanate end-capped polyethylene glycol (PEG) with β-cyclodextrin or glycerol. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay was used to evaluate the antioxidant activity (AA) of rosemary extract entrapped in polymeric structures and in ethanol or water solutions. The AA of the rosemary extract was determined using a DPPH radical for samples prepared in ethanol, and a water-soluble derivative, the sulphonated DPPH radical (DPPH-SO3Na), for the rosemary extract in water. Formulation of the rosemary extract in polymeric gels ensures a rapid release which determines the AA values similar to those in solution.
DNA aptamer-based detection of prostate cancer
Authors: Jolly Pawan , Formisano Nello , Estrela Pedro
Published: April 2015

The use of aptamers in biosensing has attracted considerable attention as an alternative to antibodies because of their unique properties such as long-term stability, cost-effectiveness and adjustability to various applications. Among cancers, the early diagnosis of prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the greatest concerns for ageing men worldwide. One of the most commonly used biomarkers for PCa is prostate-specific antigen (PSA), which can be found in elevated levels in patients with cancer. This review presents the gradual transition of research from antibody-based to aptamerbased biosensors, specifically for PSA. A brief description on aptamer-based biosensing for other PCa biomarkers is also presented. Special attention is given to electrochemical methods as analytical techniques for the development of simple, sensitive and cost-effective biosensors. The review also focuses on the different surface chemistries exploited for fabrication and their applications in clinical samples. The use of aptamers represents a promising tool for the development of point-ofcare biosensors for the early detection of prostate cancer. In view of the unmatched upper hand of aptamers, future prospects are also discussed, not only in the point-of-care format but also in other novel applications.
Biosensors based on molecular beacons
Authors: Stobiecka Magdalena , Chałupa Agata
Published: April 2015

A fundamental molecular beacon (MB) consists of a special short nucleic acid strand with a fluorophore-quencher pair attached to its ends. It provides a unique framework that is susceptible to conformational transitions between a hairpin (closed) conformation and an extended (open) conformation. These two conformations are readily discernible because of their differing fluorescence emission characteristics. The broad applicability of the robust MB sensing platform has attracted widespread interest, resulting in extensive research studies ranging from theoretical and bioanalytical chemistry to molecular biology and biomedical applications. In this paper, the principles of MB design and the modes and mechanisms of MB operation are reviewed, including MB modifications based on the utilisation of a thymidine-thymidine mismatch in hybridised MB stem, aptamers, peptides and locked nucleic acid strands in an MB loop, as well as plasmonic quenchers, quantum dots and interactions with graphene and graphene oxide. Specific applications of MBs in the analysis of enzymes, DNA mutation, phosphorylation, methylation and ligation, followed by the detection of pathogens and applications in cancer and other disease diagnostics and therapeutics are also reviewed. Molecular beacon-based sensing platforms are expanding rapidly and offer a promising bioanalytical tool for inexpensive and reliable analysis for research and field diagnostics.
Immobilisation of Aspergillus oryzae α-amylase and Aspergillus niger glucoamylase enzymes as cross-linked enzyme aggregates
Authors: Sahutoglu A. Sercan , Akgul Cahit
Published: April 2015

Cross-linked enzyme aggregates (CLEA) of Aspergillus oryzea α-amylase (AoAA) and Aspergillus niger glucoamylase (AnGA) were prepared using glutaraldehyde and dextran polyaldehyde as crosslinkers. The maximum activity recoveries for glutaraldehyde cross-linking were 21.8 % and 41.2 %, respectively. The addition of a proteic feeder (bovine serum albumin) exhibited a negative effect on the activity recoveries for both enzymes. Dextran polyaldehyde was used as a cross-linking agent instead of glutaraldehyde to reduce the activity losses. As a result, an activity recovery of 60.0 % was obtained for Aspergillus oryzea α-amylase. On the other hand, no activity recovery was observed for Aspergillus niger glucoamylase due to the latter enzyme’s affinity for dextran.
Volatile compounds composition and antioxidant activity of bee pollen collected in Lithuania
Authors: Kaškonienė Vilma , Kaškonas Paulius , Maruška Audrius
Published: April 2015

Characterization of volatile compounds composition and evaluation of antioxidant properties of bee pollen collected in Lithuania is presented in the paper, which is the first study on pollen of Lithuanian origin to our knowledge. Three polyfloral pollen samples collected by honey bees were analyzed. Characterization of volatile compounds was performed using solid phase microextraction (SPME) and GC-MS. Styrene was predominant in all samples contributing 19.6-27.0 mass %. Sample A distinguished by a high amount of limonene, 9.0 mass %, sample B differed from the rest by a high content of hexanal, 9.3 mass %, and nonanal, 12.3 mass %, while sample C showed the highest content of 1-tridecene, 43.3 mass %. Screening of antioxidant properties was carried out by spectrophotometric methods and liquid chromatography coupled with a post-column 1,1- diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) reaction detector and electrochemical detector. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents together with radical scavenging activity in the free radical (DPPH) model system were evaluated in the tested samples. Total phenolic content varied from 24.4 mg g
Stable UV absorption material synthesized by intercalation of squaric acid anion into layered double hydroxides
Authors: Li Shi-Feng , Shen Yan-Ming , Xiao Min , Zhang Zhi-Gang , Li Wen-Xiu
Published: April 2015

A novel UV absorption material of squaric acid (SA) anion (C
Conversion of phenylacetonitrile in supercritical alcohols within a system containing small volume of water
Authors: Hou Zhi-Qiang , Zhang Rui-Zhe , Luo Li-Gang , Yang Jing , Liu Chun-Ze , Wang Yuan-Yuan , Dai Li-Yi
Published: April 2015

The reaction of phenylacetonitrile in supercritical methanol and ethanol in a system containing a small volume of water was studied. The effects of various operating conditions, such as reaction temperature, reaction time, the mole ratio of phenylacetonitrile/water/methanol or ethanol on the product yield were systematically investigated. The optimal yield of methyl phenylacetate for phenylacetonitrile in supercritical methanol in a system containing a small volume of water was 70 % at 583 K and 2.5 h. The optimal yield of ethyl phenylacetate for phenylacetonitrile in supercritical ethanol with a small volume of water was 80 % at 583 K and 1.0 h. At the same time, a feasible mechanism was proposed for phenylacetonitrile in supercritical methanol and ethanol in a system containing a small volume of water.
Liquid–liquid extraction and cloud point extraction for spectrophotometric determination of vanadium using 4-(2-pyridylazo)resorcinol
Authors: Stefanova Teodora S. , Simitchiev Kiril K. , Gavazov Kiril B.
Published: April 2015

Liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) and cloud point extraction (CPE) of vanadium(V) ternary complexes with 4-(2-pyridylazo)resorcinol (PAR) and 2,3,5-triphenyl-2H-tetrazolum chloride (TTC) were investigated. The optimal conditions for vanadium extraction and spectrophotometric determination were identified. The composition (V : PAR : TTC) of the extracted species was 1 : 2 : 3 (optimal conditions; LLE), 2 : 2 : 2 (low reagents concentrations; LLE), 1 : 1 : 1 (short heating time; CPE), and 1 : 1 : 1 + 1 : 1 : 0 (optimal extraction conditions; CPE). LLE, performed in the presence of 1,2-diaminocyclohexane-N,N,N’,N’-tetraacetic acid and NH4F as masking agents, afforded the sensitive, selective, precise, and inexpensive spectrophotometric determination of vanadium. The absorption maximum, molar absorptivity, limit of detection, and linear working range were 559 nm, 1.95 × 105 dm3 mol−1 cm−1, 0.7 ng cm−3, and 2.2-510 ng cm−3, respectively. The procedure thus developed was applied to the analysis of drinking waters and steels. The relative standard deviations for V(V) determination were below 9.4 % (4-6 × 10−7 mass %; water samples) and 2.12 % (1-3 mass %; steel samples).
Flavonoids inhibiting glycation of bovine serum albumin: affinity–activity relationship
Authors: Liu Quan , Chen Ting-Ting , Cao Hui
Published: April 2015

Protein glycation leads to the formation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), which contribute to the pathogenesis of diabetic complications. The structure-activity relationship of dietary flavonoids for inhibiting the glycation of bovine serum albumin (BSA) in vitro was subjected to a detailed investigation. The structure-activity relationship revealed that: 1) the hydroxylation on ring B of the flavones enhanced the inhibition and the hydroxyl groups at the C-5 and C-7 positions of flavones favoured the inhibition; 2) the optimal number of hydroxyl groups on ring B of the flavonols was one (at the C-3 position) and the methylation of flavonols weakened the inhibition; 3) the methoxylation at the C-6 position and methylation at C-4' position of genistein clearly enhanced the inhibition; 4) the hydroxyl groups at the C-5 and C-7 positions of flavanones were in favour of the inhibition; 5) the glycosylation of flavonoids significantly weakened the inhibition. Obvious linear affinity-activity relationships exist between the BSA-flavonoid interaction and flavonoids as BSA glycation inhibitors (R