bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Pomegranate and Orange Juice on Antioxidant Status in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Ekhlasi Golnaz , Shidfar Farzad , Agah Shahram , Merat Shahin , Hosseini Agha Fatemeh
Published: July 2016

Abstract. Aim: The fruit of the pomegranate (Punica granatum) has a high content of polyphenols and is renowned for its antioxidant capabilities. In particular, it is recognized as reducing oxidative stress and, therefore, playing a productive role in obstructing the pathogenesis of fatty liver disease. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of consumingpomegranate juice (high in antioxidant content) and orange juice (low in antioxidant content) when combined with a hypocaloric diet on liver enzymes and the antioxidant status of patients. Methods: In a randomized clinical trial, 65 patients who exhibited non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) at a mean age of 39+/-8 years received 250 mL pomegranate juice or orange juice per day as a substitute for two servings of fruit in a hypocaloric diet over a period of 12 weeks. The subjects’ levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were measured at the beginning and end of the study. Results: At the end of the study, the levels of liver enzymes and body mass index (BMI) had significantly decreased in both groups. A significant increase in TAC was also observed in the subjects in the pomegranate group (p <0.01). Conclusion: Consumption of fruits that are high in antioxidants could represent a useful means to improve the antioxidant status of NAFLD patients who follow a hypocaloric diet.
Global Risks and Research Priorities for Coastal Subsidence
Authors: Allison Mead , Yuill Brendan , Törnqvist Torbjörn , Amelung Falk , Dixon Timothy , Erkens Gilles , Stuurman Roelof , Jones Cathleen , Milne Glenn , Steckler Michael , Syvitski James , Teatini Pietro
Published: July 2016

Some of the world's largest cities are sinking faster than the oceans are rising. Humans are part of the problem, but we can also be part of the solution through monitoring and modeling.
Carbon Dioxide Frost May Keep Martian Soil Dusty
Authors: Shultz David
Published: July 2016

Temperature readings acquired from orbit show that Mars's surface gets cold enough at night to allow layers of solid carbon dioxide frost up to several hundred micrometers thick to build up near the equator.
Surveying Alaskan Minerals from Afar
Authors: Deatrick Elizabeth
Published: July 2016

By using hyperspectral imaging, researchers test their ability to find copper in remote areas.
The four and a half LIM domains 2 (FHL2) regulates ovarian granulosa cell tumor progression via controlling AKT1 transcription
Authors: Hua G , He C , Lv X , Fan L , Wang C , Remmenga S W , Rodabaugh K J , Yang L , Lele S M , Yang P , Karpf A R , Davis J S , Wang C
Published: July 2016

The four and a half LIM domains 2 (FHL2) has been shown to play important roles in the regulation of cell proliferation, survival, adhesion, motility and signal transduction in a cell type and tissue-dependent manner. However, the function of FHL2 in ovarian physiology and pathology is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine the role and functional mechanism of FHL2 in the progression of ovarian granulosa cell tumors (GCTs). Immunohistochemical analysis indicated that FHL2 was overexpressed in GCT tissues. Cellular localization of FHL2 in GCT cells was cell cycle dependent. Knockdown of FHL2 suppressed GCT cell growth, reduced cell viability and inhibited cell migration. Consistently, ectopic expression of FHL2 in GCT cells with very low endogenous FHL2 promoted cell growth, improved cell viability and enhance cell migration. Importantly, overexpression of FHL2 promoted GCT progression in vivo. Mechanistic studies indicated that FHL2 regulates AKT1 gene expression in vitro and in vivo. Knockdown of FHL2 or AKT1 in GCT cell lines induced very similar phenotypes. Ectopic expression of constitutively active AKT1 rescued FHL2 knockdown-induced arrest of GCT cell growth and reduction of GCT cell viability, suggesting that FHL2 regulates GCT cell growth and viability through controlling AKT1 expression. Finally, co-immunoprecipitation and chromatin immunoprecipitation analyses indicated that FHL2 functions as a co-activator of NFκB and AP-1 to regulate AKT1 gene transcription. In conclusion, results from the present study indicate that FHL2 exerts its oncogenic action in GCT cells via controlling AKT1 gene expression. FHL2 is a promising target for the development of novel drugs against ovarian granulosa cell tumor.
Opposite monosynaptic scaling of BLP–vCA1 inputs governs hopefulness- and helplessness-modulated spatial learning and memory
Authors: Yang Ying , Wang Zhi-Hao , Jin Sen , Gao Di , Liu Nan , Chen Shan-Ping , Zhang Sinan , Liu Qing , Liu Enjie , Wang Xin , Liang Xiao , Wei Pengfei , Li Xiaoguang , Li Yin , Yue Chenyu , Li Hong-lian , Wang Ya-Li , Wang Qun , Ke Dan , Xie Qingguo , Xu Fuqiang , Wang Liping , Wang Jian-Zhi
Published: July 2016

Different emotional states lead to distinct behavioural consequences even when faced with the same challenging events. Emotions affect learning and memory capacities, but the underlying neurobiological mechanisms remain elusive. Here we establish models of learned helplessness (LHL) and learned hopefulness (LHF) by exposing animals to inescapable foot shocks or with anticipated avoidance trainings. The LHF animals show spatial memory potentiation with excitatory monosynaptic upscaling between posterior basolateral amygdale (BLP) and ventral hippocampal CA1 (vCA1), whereas the LHL show memory deficits with an attenuated BLP–vCA1 connection. Optogenetic disruption of BLP–vCA1 inputs abolishes the effects of LHF and impairs synaptic plasticity. By contrast, targeted BLP–vCA1 stimulation rescues the LHL-induced memory deficits and mimics the effects of LHF. BLP–vCA1 stimulation increases synaptic transmission and dendritic plasticity with the upregulation of CREB and intrasynaptic AMPA receptors in CA1. These findings indicate that opposite excitatory monosynaptic scaling of BLP–vCA1 controls LHF- and LHL-modulated spatial memory, revealing circuit-specific mechanisms linking emotions to memory.
Critical role of RanBP2-mediated SUMOylation of Small Heterodimer Partner in maintaining bile acid homeostasis
Authors: Kim Dong-Hyun , Kwon Sanghoon , Byun Sangwon , Xiao Zhen , Park Sean , Wu Shwu-Yuan , Chiang Cheng-Ming , Kemper Byron , Kemper Jongsook Kim
Published: July 2016

Bile acids (BAs) are recently recognized signalling molecules that profoundly affect metabolism. Because of detergent-like toxicity, BA levels must be tightly regulated. An orphan nuclear receptor, Small Heterodimer Partner (SHP), plays a key role in this regulation, but how SHP senses the BA signal for feedback transcriptional responses is not clearly understood. We show an unexpected function of a nucleoporin, RanBP2, in maintaining BA homoeostasis through SUMOylation of SHP. Upon BA signalling, RanBP2 co-localizes with SHP at the nuclear envelope region and mediates SUMO2 modification at K68, which facilitates nuclear transport of SHP and its interaction with repressive histone modifiers to inhibit BA synthetic genes. Mice expressing a SUMO-defective K68R SHP mutant have increased liver BA levels, and upon BA- or drug-induced biliary insults, these mice exhibit exacerbated cholestatic pathologies. These results demonstrate a function of RanBP2-mediated SUMOylation of SHP in maintaining BA homoeostasis and protecting from the BA hepatotoxicity.
Photo-induced enhanced Raman spectroscopy for universal ultra-trace detection of explosives, pollutants and biomolecules
Authors: Ben-Jaber Sultan , Peveler William J. , Quesada-Cabrera Raul , Cortés Emiliano , Sotelo-Vazquez Carlos , Abdul-Karim Nadia , Maier Stefan A. , Parkin Ivan P.
Published: July 2016

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy is one of the most sensitive spectroscopic techniques available, with single-molecule detection possible on a range of noble-metal substrates. It is widely used to detect molecules that have a strong Raman response at very low concentrations. Here we present photo-induced-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, where the combination of plasmonic nanoparticles with a photo-activated substrate gives rise to large signal enhancement (an order of magnitude) for a wide range of small molecules, even those with a typically low Raman cross-section. We show that the induced chemical enhancement is due to increased electron density at the noble-metal nanoparticles, and demonstrate the universality of this system with explosives, biomolecules and organic dyes, at trace levels. Our substrates are also easy to fabricate, self-cleaning and reusable.
Quantum gate learning in qubit networks: Toffoli gate without time-dependent control
Authors: Banchi Leonardo , Pancotti Nicola , Bose Sougato
Published: July 2016

We put forward a strategy to encode a quantum operation into the unmodulated dynamics of a quantum network without the need for external control pulses, measurements or active feedback. Our optimisation scheme, inspired by supervised machine learning, consists in engineering the pairwise couplings between the network qubits so that the target quantum operation is encoded in the natural reduced dynamics of a network section. The efficacy of the proposed scheme is demonstrated by the finding of uncontrolled four-qubit networks that implement either the Toffoli gate, the Fredkin gate or remote logic operations. The proposed Toffoli gate is stable against imperfections, has a high fidelity for fault-tolerant quantum computation and is fast, being based on the non-equilibrium dynamics.
G-protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 terminates G-protein-coupled receptor function in steroid hormone 20-hydroxyecdysone signaling
Authors: Zhao Wen-Li , Wang Di , Liu Chun-Yan , Zhao Xiao-Fan
Published: July 2016

G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) transmit extracellular signals across the cell membrane. GPCR kinases (GRKs) desensitize GPCR signals in the cell membrane. However, the role and mechanism of GRKs in the desensitization of steroid hormone signaling are unclear. In this study, we propose that GRK2 is phosphorylated by protein kinase C (PKC) in response to induction by the steroid hormone 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E), which determines its translocation to the cell membrane of the lepidopteran Helicoverpa armigera. GRK2 protein expression is increased during the metamorphic stage because of induction by 20E. Knockdown of GRK2 in larvae causes accelerated pupation, an increase in 20E-response gene expression and advanced apoptosis and metamorphosis. 20E induces translocation of GRK2 from the cytoplasm to the cell membrane via steroid hormone ecdysone-responsive GPCR (ErGPCR-2). GRK2 is phosphorylated by PKC on serine 680 after induction by 20E, which leads to the translocation of GRK2 to the cell membrane. GRK2 interacts with ErGPCR-2. These data indicate that GRK2 terminates the ErGPCR-2 function in 20E signaling in the cell membrane by a negative feedback mechanism.
Transcriptomic analysis reveals abnormal muscle repair and remodeling in survivors of critical illness with sustained weakness
Authors: Walsh Christopher J. , Batt Jane , Herridge Margaret S. , Mathur Sunita , Bader Gary D. , Hu Pingzhao , dos Santos Claudia C.
Published: July 2016

ICU acquired weakness (ICUAW) is a common complication of critical illness characterized by structural and functional impairment of skeletal muscle. The resulting physical impairment may persist for years after ICU discharge, with few patients regaining functional independence. Elucidating molecular mechanisms underscoring sustained ICUAW is crucial to understanding outcomes linked to different morbidity trajectories as well as for the development of novel therapies. Quadriceps muscle biopsies and functional measures of muscle strength and mass were obtained at 7 days and 6 months post-ICU discharge from a cohort of ICUAW patients. Unsupervised co-expression network analysis of transcriptomic profiles identified discrete modules of co-expressed genes associated with the degree of muscle weakness and atrophy in early and sustained ICUAW. Modules were enriched for genes involved in skeletal muscle regeneration and extracellular matrix deposition. Collagen deposition in persistent ICUAW was confirmed by histochemical stain. Modules were further validated in an independent cohort of critically ill patients with sepsis-induced multi-organ failure and a porcine model of ICUAW, demonstrating disease-associated conservation across species and peripheral muscle type. Our findings provide a pathomolecular basis for sustained ICUAW, implicating aberrant expression of distinct skeletal muscle structural and regenerative genes in early and persistent ICUAW.
Breeding signature of combining ability improvement revealed by a genomic variation map from recurrent selection population in Brassica napus
Authors: Zhao Xinwang , Li Bao , Zhang Ka , Hu Kaining , Yi Bin , Wen Jing , Ma Chaozhi , Shen Jinxiong , Fu Tingdong , Tu Jinxing
Published: July 2016

Combining ability is crucial for parent selection in crop hybrid breeding. The present investigation and results had revealed the underlying genetic factors which might contribute in adequate combining ability, further assisting in enhancing heterosis and stability. Here, we conducted a large-scale analysis of genomic variation in order to define genomic regions affecting the combining ability in recurrent selection population of rapeseed. A population of 175 individuals was genotyped with the Brassica60K SNP chip. 525 hybrids were assembled with three different testers and used to evaluate the general combining ability (GCA) in three environments. By detecting the changes of the genomic variation, we identified 376 potential genome regions, spanning 3.03% of rapeseed genome which provided QTL-level resolution on potentially selected variants. More than 96% of these regions were located in the C subgenome, indicating that C subgenome had sustained stronger selection pressure in the breeding program than the A subgenome. In addition, a high level of linkage disequilibrium in rapeseed genome was detected, suggesting that marker-assisted selection for the population improvement might be easily implemented. This study outlines the evidence for high GCA on a genomic level and provided underlying molecular mechanism for recurrent selection improvement in B. napus.
The Synthetic Elicitor DPMP (2,4-dichloro-6-{(E)-[(3-methoxyphenyl)imino]methyl}phenol) Triggers Strong Immunity in Arabidopsis thaliana and Tomato
Authors: Bektas Yasemin , Rodriguez-Salus Melinda , Schroeder Mercedes , Gomez Adilene , Kaloshian Isgouhi , Eulgem Thomas
Published: July 2016

Synthetic elicitors are drug-like compounds that are structurally distinct from natural defense elicitors. They can protect plants from diseases by activating host immune responses and can serve as tools for the dissection of the plant immune system as well as leads for the development of environmentally-safe pesticide alternatives. By high-throughput screening, we previously identified 114 synthetic elicitors that activate expression of the pathogen-responsive CaBP22−333::GUS reporter gene in Arabidopsis thaliana (Arabidopsis), 33 of which are [(phenylimino)methyl]phenol (PMP) derivatives or PMP-related compounds. Here we report on the characterization of one of these compounds, 2,4-dichloro-6-{(E)-[(3-methoxyphenyl)imino]methyl}phenol (DPMP). DPMP strongly triggers disease resistance of Arabidopsis against bacterial and oomycete pathogens. By mRNA-seq analysis we found transcriptional profiles triggered by DPMP to resemble typical defense-related responses.
Uncovering the Relationship between Sulphation Patterns and Conformation of Iduronic Acid in Heparan Sulphate
Authors: Hsieh Po-Hung , Thieker David F. , Guerrini Marco , Woods Robert J. , Liu Jian
Published: July 2016

The L-iduronic acid (IdoA) residue is a critically important structural component in heparan sulphate polysaccharide for the biological functions. The pyranose ring of IdoA is present in 1C4-chair, 2SO-skew boat and less frequently, in 4C1-chair conformations. Here, we analyzed the conformation of IdoA residue in eight hexasaccharides by NMR. The data demonstrate a correlation between the conformation of IdoA and sulphations in the surrounding saccharide residues. For the 2-O-sulpho IdoA residue, a high degree of sulphation on neighboring residues drives ring dynamics towards the 2SO-skew boat conformer. In contrast, the nonsulphated IdoA residue is pushed towards the 1C4-chair conformer when the neighboring residues are highly sulphated. Our data suggest that the conformation of IdoA is regulated by the sulphation pattern of nearby saccharides that is genetically controlled by the heparan sulphate biosynthetic pathway.
Neonicotinoid-contaminated pollinator strips adjacent to cropland reduce honey bee nutritional status
Authors: Mogren Christina L. , Lundgren Jonathan G.
Published: July 2016

Worldwide pollinator declines are attributed to a number of factors, including pesticide exposures. Neonicotinoid insecticides specifically have been detected in surface waters, non-target vegetation, and bee products, but the risks posed by environmental exposures are still not well understood. Pollinator strips were tested for clothianidin contamination in plant tissues, and the risks to honey bees assessed. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) quantified clothianidin in leaf, nectar, honey, and bee bread at organic and seed-treated farms. Total glycogen, lipids, and protein from honey bee workers were quantified. The proportion of plants testing positive for clothianidin were the same between treatments. Leaf tissue and honey had similar concentrations of clothianidin between organic and seed-treated farms. Honey (mean±SE: 6.61 ± 0.88 ppb clothianidin per hive) had seven times greater concentrations than nectar collected by bees (0.94 ± 0.09 ppb). Bee bread collected from organic sites (25.8 ± 3.0 ppb) had significantly less clothianidin than those at seed treated locations (41.6 ± 2.9 ppb). Increasing concentrations of clothianidin in bee bread were correlated with decreased glycogen, lipid, and protein in workers. This study shows that small, isolated areas set aside for conservation do not provide spatial or temporal relief from neonicotinoid exposures in agricultural regions where their use is largely prophylactic.
Interferon regulatory factor 3 is a key regulation factor for inducing the expression of SAMHD1 in antiviral innate immunity
Authors: Yang Shen , Zhan Yuan , Zhou Yanjun , Jiang Yifeng , Zheng Xuchen , Yu Lingxue , Tong Wu , Gao Fei , Li Liwei , Huang Qinfeng , Ma Zhiyong , Tong Guangzhi
Published: July 2016

SAMHD1 is a type I interferon (IFN) inducible host innate immunity restriction factor that inhibits an early step of the viral life cycle. The underlying mechanisms of SAMHD1 transcriptional regulation remains elusive. Here, we report that inducing SAMHD1 upregulation is part of an early intrinsic immune response via TLR3 and RIG-I/MDA5 agonists that ultimately induce the nuclear translocation of the interferon regulation factor 3 (IRF3) protein. Further studies show that IRF3 plays a major role in upregulating endogenous SAMHD1 expression in a mechanism that is independent of the classical IFN-induced JAK-STAT pathway. Both overexpression and activation of IRF3 enhanced the SAMHD1 promoter luciferase activity, and activated IRF3 was necessary for upregulating SAMHD1 expression in a type I IFN cascade. We also show that the SAMHD1 promoter is a direct target of IRF3 and an IRF3 binding site is sufficient to render this promoter responsive to stimulation. Collectively, these findings indicate that upregulation of endogenous SAMHD1 expression is attributed to the phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of IRF3 and we suggest that type I IFN induction and induced SAMHD1 expression are coordinated.
Zwitterionic chitosan for the systemic treatment of sepsis
Authors: Cho Eun Jung , Doh Kyung-Oh , Park Jinho , Hyun Hyesun , Wilson Erin M. , Snyder Paul W. , Tsifansky Michael D. , Yeo Yoon
Published: July 2016

Severe sepsis and septic shock are life-threatening conditions, with Gram-negative organisms responsible for most sepsis mortality. Systemic administration of compounds that block the action of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a constituent of the Gram-negative outer cell membrane, is hampered by their hydrophobicity and cationic charge, the very properties responsible for their interactions with LPS. We hypothesize that a chitosan derivative zwitterionic chitosan (ZWC), previously shown to suppress the production of pro-inflammatory cellular mediators in LPS-challenged macrophages, will have protective effects in an animal model of sepsis induced by systemic injection of LPS. In this study, we evaluate whether ZWC attenuates the fatal effect of LPS in C57BL/6 mice and investigate the mechanism by which ZWC counteracts the LPS effect using a PMJ2-PC peritoneal macrophage cell line. Unlike its parent compound with low water solubility, intraperitoneally administered ZWC is readily absorbed with no local residue or adverse tissue reaction at the injection site. Whether administered at or prior to the LPS challenge, ZWC more than doubles the animals’ median survival time. ZWC appears to protect the LPS-challenged organisms by forming a complex with LPS and thus attenuating pro-inflammatory signaling pathways. These findings suggest that ZWC have utility as a systemic anti-LPS agent.
Persisting and Increasing Neutrophil Infiltration Associates with Gastric Carcinogenesis and E-cadherin Downregulation
Authors: Fu Hualin , Ma Yue , Yang Meng , Zhang Chunlei , Huang Hai , Xia Ying , Lu Lungen , Jin Weilin , Cui Daxiang
Published: July 2016

H. pylori-induced chronic inflammation is considered the most important cause of gastric cancer. The actual process how chronic inflammation triggers gastric carcinogenesis is still not clear. In this study, neutrophils and relative markers in gastric cancer development were examined with immunohistochemistry and fluorescence RNA in situ hybridization methods. On average, 24 times more neutrophils were found in gastric cancer tissues and about 9 times more neutrophils were found in gastric intestinal metaplasia tissues comparing to normal gastric tissue controls. CagA+ H. pylori infection in cancer adjacent tissues or EBV infection in cancer tissues did not increase neutrophil infiltration into gastric cancer tissues significantly. Neutrophil density was positively correlated with cell proliferation while negatively correlated with E-cadherin intensity. E-cadherin is also transcriptionally downregulated in gastric cancer tissues comparing to adjacent tissue controls. The increased neutrophils in the gastric cancer tissues appear to be related to increased chemoattractant IL-8 levels. In gastric cancers, neutrophil numbers were higher comparing to cancer adjacent tissues and not associated with patient ages, tumor invasion depth, tumor staging, metastasis or cancer types. The conclusion is that persisting and increasing neutrophil infiltration is associated with E-cadherin downregulation, cell proliferation and gastric carcinogenesis.
Intra-amniotic Candida albicans infection induces mucosal injury and inflammation in the ovine fetal intestine
Authors: Nikiforou Maria , Jacobs Esmee M.R. , Kemp Matthew W. , Hornef Mathias W. , Payne Matthew S. , Saito Masatoshi , Newnham John P. , Janssen Leon E.W. , Jobe Alan H. , Kallapur Suhas G. , Kramer Boris W. , Wolfs Tim G.A.M.
Published: July 2016

Chorioamnionitis is caused by intrauterine infection with microorganisms including Candida albicans (C.albicans). Chorioamnionitis is associated with postnatal intestinal pathologies including necrotizing enterocolitis. The underlying mechanisms by which intra-amnioticC.albicansinfection adversely affects the fetal gut remain unknown. Therefore, we assessed whether intra-amnioticC.albicansinfection would cause intestinal inflammation and mucosal injury in an ovine model. Additionally, we tested whether treatment with the fungistatic fluconazole ameliorated the adverse intestinal outcome of intra-amnioticC.albicansinfection. Pregnant sheep received intra-amniotic injections with 107colony-forming unitsC.albicansor saline at 3 or 5 days before preterm delivery at 122 days of gestation. Fetuses were given intra-amniotic and intra-peritoneal fluconazole treatments 2 days after intra-amniotic administration ofC.albicans. Intra-amnioticC.albicanscaused intestinal colonization and invasive growth within the fetal gut with mucosal injury and intestinal inflammation, characterized by increased CD3+lymphocytes, MPO+cells and elevated TNF-α and IL-17 mRNA levels. Fluconazole treatmentin uterodecreased intestinalC.albicanscolonization, mucosal injury but failed to attenuate intestinal inflammation. Intra-amnioticC.albicanscaused intestinal infection, injury and inflammation. Fluconazole treatment decreased mucosal injury but failed to ameliorateC.albicans-mediated mucosal inflammation emphasizing the need to optimize the applied antifungal therapeutic strategy.
Acetylome analysis reveals the involvement of lysine acetylation in diverse biological processes in Phytophthora sojae
Authors: Li Delong , Lv Binna , Tan Lingling , Yang Qianqian , Liang Wenxing
Published: July 2016

Lysine acetylation is a dynamic and highly conserved post-translational modification that plays an important regulatory role in almost every aspects of cell metabolism in both eukaryotes and prokaryotes. Phytophthora sojae is one of the most important plant pathogens due to its huge economic impact. However, to date, little is known about the functions of lysine acetylation in this Phytopthora. Here, we conducted a lysine acetylome in P. sojae. Overall, 2197 lysine acetylation sites in 1150 proteins were identified. The modified proteins are involved in diverse biological processes and are localized to multiple cellular compartments. Importantly, 7 proteins involved in the pathogenicity or the secretion pathway of P. sojae were found to be acetylated. These data provide the first comprehensive view of the acetylome of P. sojae and serve as an important resource for functional analysis of lysine acetylation in plant pathogens.
Environmental Exposure to Cadmium: Health Risk Assessment and its Associations with Hypertension and Impaired Kidney Function
Authors: Wu Haiyun , Liao Qilin , Chillrud Steven N. , Yang Qiang , Huang Lei , Bi Jun , Yan Beizhan
Published: July 2016

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic metal. This study was aimed to estimate the potential health risks in a Cd-polluted district in China, and examine the relationship between urinary cadmium(UCd) and hypertension and impaired kidney function at low exposure levels (UCd: GM 1.3 μg/g creatinine). Blood pressure measurement, questionnaires, and collection of urinary samples were conducted from 217 residents. Environmental samples, food, and cigarette samples were collected and detected to estimate the risks posed by Cd and the contribution of inhalation, ingestion, and dermal contact pathways to these risks. A logistic regression model was used in examining associations between exposure and hypertension and impaired kidney function. Results show that this population is at high risk. For non-smokers, incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) and hazard quotient (HQ) are 1.74E-04 and 2.96, and for smokers, they are 1.07E-03 and 52.5, respectively. Among all exposure pathways, smoking and foods cause the major increases in ILCR and HQ. UCd is significantly associated with hypertension (odds ratio (OR) = 1.468; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.104, 1.953; P = 0.008) and impaired kidney function (OR = 1.902, 95% CI: 1.054, 3.432; P = 0.033). The results demonstrate that Cd can potentially lead to adverse health effects.
Design, synthesis and excellent third-order NLO properties of two new polyoxometalates constructed from Keggin polyanions bonded by a solvent molecule
Authors: Miao Hao , Dong Yayu , Chen Ziwang , He Xingxiang , Hu Gonghao , Xu Yan
Published: July 2016

Two new monosubstituted polyoxometalates, with pyridine as a conjugated solvent molecule bound to polyanions, are developed, which give strong third-order NLO responses.
Hot off the press
Authors: Hill Robert A. , Sutherland Andrew
Published: July 2016

A personal selection of 32 recent papers is presented covering various aspects of current developments in bioorganic chemistry and novel natural products such as euphorikanin A from Euphorbia kansui.
Enhancing the thermophysical properties and tribological behaviour of engine oils using nano-lubricant additives
Authors: Ahmed Ali Mohamed Kamal , Xianjun Hou , Turkson Richard Fiifi , Peng Zhan , Chen Xiandong
Published: July 2016

This paper presents the enhancement of the thermophysical properties of engine oil using nano-lubricant additives and a characterization of tribological behaviour in terms of sliding contact interfaces in automotive engines.
Near-infrared asymmetrical heptamethine cyanines specifically imaging cancer cells by sensing their acidic lysosomal lumen
Authors: Xi Rui , Zhang Jingye , Zhang Yunfei , Li Sihan , Li Yang , Li Xinwei , Chen Liang , Li Cong
Published: July 2016

Asymmetrical heptamethine cyanine based near-infrared fluorophores specifically imaging cancer cells by sensing their acidic lysosomal lumen.
SON68 glass alteration under Si-rich solutions at low temperature (35–90 °C): kinetics, secondary phases and isotopic exchange studies
Authors: Bouakkaz Rachid , Abdelouas Abdesselam , El Mendili Yassine , Grambow Bernd , Gin Stéphane
Published: July 2016

Pristine and 29Si-doped SON68 glass were leached in dynamic mode in Si-rich COx water at 42 ppm, pH 8, (35–90 °C) and S/V (900–1800 m−1). Diffusion and surface reaction process governed the glass alteration. The residual rate at 90 °C to 653 days is about 10−3 g m−2 d−1.
Fosfomycin removal and phosphorus recovery in a schorl/H2O2 system
Authors: Shi Jing , Yin Danyang , Xu Zhengwen , Song Duanmei , Cao Feng
Published: July 2016

More than 90% organic phosphorus could be removed by the Fenton-like oxidation, and about one-third inorganic phosphorus could be adsorbed and recovered on the schorl.
Diglycidylether of iso-eugenol: a suitable lignin-derived synthon for epoxy thermoset applications
Authors: François Camille , Pourchet Sylvie , Boni Gilles , Fontaine Stéphane , Gaillard Yves , Placet Vincent , Galkin Maxim V. , Orebom Alexander , Samec Joseph , Plasseraud Laurent
Published: July 2016

Iso-eugenol (isoEu), catalytically fragmented from lignin, is converted into a diglycidylether of iso-eugenol (DGE-isoEu) which leads in the presence of anhydride acids based hardeners to new biobased epoxy thermosets.
Confined-space synthesis of nanostructured anatase, directed by genetically engineered living organisms for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Ping Hang , Xie Hao , Xiang Mingyu , Su Bao-Lian , Wang Yucheng , Zhang Jinyong , Zhang Fan , Fu Zhengyi
Published: July 2016

Genetically engineered living organisms direct the synthesis of nanostructured anatase with nanoparticle, mesoporous structure and carbon coating characteristics which shows excellent lithium storage performance.
Scalable and bendable organized mesoporous TiN films templated by using a dual-functional amphiphilic graft copolymer for solid supercapacitors
Authors: Kim Dong Jun , Kim Jin Kyu , Lee Jae Hun , Cho Hyung Hee , Bae Youn-Sang , Kim Jong Hak
Published: July 2016

An organized mesoporous (om-TiN) film prepared by the nitration of TiO2 templated by a graft copolymer. The solid supercapacitor based on a graft copolymer electrolyte shows a specific capacitance of 266.8 F g−1, the highest value reported for TiN-based electrodes.
Mitochondrial DNA disturbances and deregulated expression of oxidative phosphorylation and mitochondrial fusion proteins in sporadic inclusion body myositis
Authors: Catalán-García Marc , Garrabou Glòria , Morén Constanza , Guitart-Mampel Mariona , Hernando Adriana , Díaz-Ramos Àngels , González-Casacuberta Ingrid , Juárez Diana-Luz , Bañó Maria , Enrich-Bengoa Jennifer , Emperador Sonia , Milisenda José César , Moreno Pedro , Tobías Ester , Zorzano Antonio , Montoya Julio , Cardellach Francesc , Grau Josep Maria
Published: July 2016

Sporadic inclusion body myositis (sIBM) is one of the most common myopathies in elderly people. Mitochondrial abnormalities at the histological level are present in these patients. We hypothesize that mitochondrial dysfunction may play a role in disease aetiology. We took the following measurements of muscle and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from 30 sIBM patients and 38 age- and gender-paired controls: mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) deletions, amount of mtDNA and mtRNA, mitochondrial protein synthesis, mitochondrial respiratory chain (MRC) complex I and IV enzymatic activity, mitochondrial mass, oxidative stress and mitochondrial dynamics (mitofusin 2 and optic atrophy 1 levels). Depletion of mtDNA was present in muscle from sIBM patients and PBMCs showed deregulated expression of mitochondrial proteins in oxidative phosphorylation. MRC complex IV/citrate synthase activity was significantly decreased in both tissues and mitochondrial dynamics were affected in muscle. Depletion of mtDNA was significantly more severe in patients with mtDNA deletions, which also presented deregulation of mitochondrial fusion proteins. Imbalance in mitochondrial dynamics in muscle was associated with increased mitochondrial genetic disturbances (both depletion and deletions), demonstrating that proper mitochondrial turnover is essential for mitochondrial homoeostasis and muscle function in these patients.
Two constructions of binary sequences with optimal autocorrelation magnitude
Authors: Krengel E.I. , Ivanov P.V.
Published: July 2016

In this Letter, two constructions of new binary sequences with optimal autocorrelation magnitude of length 4N derived from binary sequences with optimal autocorrelation of length N = 2 (mod 4) and almost‐perfect binary sequences of length 2N using N × 2 interleaved structure is presented. The first construction is to use binary Sidelnikov sequences of length N = pn−1 whereas the second one is to use binary Ding–Helleseth–Martinsen sequences of length N = 2p. The obtained sequences have large linear complexity and can be used in communication and cryptography.
A Direct Approach to Enantiopure Propionate Derivatives from Ethyl Lactate
Authors: Clemente-Tejeda David , Lara Juan , Zard Samir
Published: July 2016

The S-propargyl xanthate derived from ethyl (S)-lactate reacts upon heating with various acidic substances to give the propionate transfer product in high yield and with complete inversion of configuration.
Study of genotype by environment interaction in tall fescue genotypes and their polycross progenies in Iran based on AMMI model analysis
Authors: Dehghani M. R. , Majidi M. M. , Mirlohi A. , Saeidi G.
Published: July 2016

Development of forage grass genotypes which maintain a high level of performance over a wide range of environments is a goal of most breeding programs. In this study the additive main effects and multiplicative interactions (AMMI) model analysis was used to understand the complexity of genotype by environment interaction and to evaluate the adaptability and yield stability of some tall fescue genotypes and their selected polycross progenies. Replicated forage yield data of 72 genotypes (24 parental, 24 early flowering and 24 late flowering progenies) from six main cropping seasons (2008–14) at two locations and under two levels of irrigation were used for this purpose. The AMMI-1 analysis results accounted for 47.6% of the genotype by environment interaction. Interaction patterns revealed by AMMI-1 biplots indicated that most of the tall fescue genotypes were narrowly adapted and among all evaluated genotypes, only four genotypes (G22, G50, G62 and G65) with yield performance above the average were considered broadly adapted. The AMMI-1 mega-environment analysis indicated that all the environments in Lavark were grouped in one mega-environment, except for E1 and E2. For this mega-environment the winning genotypes were the genotypes G9, G48 and G72. The environments in Isfahan location, except for E13, were grouped in another mega-environment. The genotypes G23, G8 and G15 were the winners in this mega-environment.
Effect of annealing conditions on in situ formation of Cr2O3 diffusion barrier
Authors: Xu Y.-X. , Luo X.-T. , Li C.-X. , Yang G.-J. , Li C.-J.
Published: July 2016

The previous investigation suggested the approach for an in situ formation of Cr2O3 diffusion barrier by annealing the cold-sprayed Ni coatings on 310SS. In this paper, the influences of annealing conditions on the growth kinetics of Cr2O3 and substrate microstructure were investigated. Results show that Cr2O3 formed at the selected annealing temperatures of 850, 900 and 950°C for different durations of 4, 8 and 20 h. Increasing temperature enhanced the growth kinetics of Cr2O3 and the Mn content in the oxide layer. The annealing process for the growth of Cr2O3 improves the coating adhesion compared to the as-deposited coating. However, annealing at 950°C resulted in the precipitation of chromium carbides and enhanced the element inter-diffusion across the substrate/coating interface.
Mode Effect and Response Rate Issues in Mixed-Mode Survey Research: Implications for Recreational Fisheries Management
Authors: Wallen Kenneth E. , Landon Adam C. , Kyle Gerard T. , Schuett Michael A. , Leitz Jeremy , Kurzawski Ken
Published: July 2016

While the social, economic, and ecological impact of recreational fisheries is well established, the inherent diversity of both fisheries resources and resource users, particularly anglers, continues to present a challenge for management agencies. To better understand the diversity of recreational anglers, agencies often utilize survey methods to collect data on angler characteristics and preferences. However, obtaining necessary and representative data is becoming more challenging, exacerbated by declining response rates and an increase in the number of single and mixed-mode survey designs researchers can choose to collect data. We examined three survey designs—surface mail with a Web push, e-mail, and mixed mode—each with varying modes of solicitation and response, in the context of a statewide survey of licensed Texas anglers. Our findings illustrated that response rates varied considerably among these three survey designs. We also observed significant variation in terms of anglers’ sociodemographic characteristics based on solicitation and response modes of each survey design. Interestingly, we observed limited variation in terms of anglers’ behaviors, preferences, and motivations. Our results highlight the need for researchers and managers to be aware of the various survey designs available and the variability that particular survey designs can introduce into data.

Received August 1, 2014; accepted March 2, 2016 Published online July 13, 2016
Patient portals and personal health information online: perception, access, and use by US adults
Authors: Peacock Sue , Reddy Ashok , Leveille Suzanne G , Walker Jan , Payne Thomas H , Oster Natalia V , Elmore Joann G
Published: July 2016

Background: Access to online patient portals is key to improving care, but we have limited understanding of patient perceptions of online portals and the characteristics of people who use them.

Methods: Using a national survey of 3677 respondents, we describe perceptions and utilization of online personal health information (PHI) portals.

Results: Most respondents (92%) considered online PHI access important, yet only 34% were offered access to online PHI by a health care provider, and just 28% accessed online PHI in the past year. While there were no differences across race or ethnicity in importance of access, black and Hispanic respondents were significantly less likely to be offered access (P = .006 and <.001, respectively) and less likely to access their online PHI (P = .041 and <.001, respectively) compared to white and non-Hispanic respondents.

Conclusion: Health care providers are crucial to the adoption and use of online patient portals and should be encouraged to offer consistent access regardless of patient race and ethnicity.
When the Security Council is Divided
Authors: Johnstone Ian
Published: July 2016

This chapter examines the scope and limits of the UN Security Council’s competence in dealing with situations requiring the use of force. It discusses the Charter provisions on the delegation of enforcement action to regional organizations or coalitions of the willing, and legal issues that have arisen in practice. It looks at the establishment or authorization of robust peacekeeping missions with some enforcement powers, with both regional organizations and coalitions either occasionally acting on the basis of implicit authorizations to use force or claiming retroactive approval. It analyses three types of case that tend to arise when the Security Council is divided: imprecise authorization, implied mandates, and failure to act due to ‘unreasonable’ exercise of the veto. Although wishing the Council to be clear and consistent, the contestation surrounding these cases is to be expected from a deeply political body and reinforces its value for managing international peace and security.
The Threat of the Use of Force and Ultimata
Authors: Lagerwall Anne , Dubuisson François
Published: July 2016

This chapter deals with international law governing the threat of force. More specifically, it discusses the conditions under which an act may be considered a threat of force contrary to the UN Charter. It shows that a threat is unlawful under Article 2(4) of the UN Charter when the use of force contemplated by the threat would itself be unlawful. The chapter also examines the application of the rule prohibiting the threat of force by focusing on three cases: the US and British threats of force against Iraq in 2002 and 2003; the dispute between Suriname and Guyana in 2007; and the conflict involving Russia and Georgia in 2009.
Rescuing Nationals Abroad
Authors: Forteau Mathias
Published: July 2016

This chapter examines one of the most contentious issues in the jus ad bellum: whether and when international law permits a state to use force unilaterally to rescue its nationals abroad when their lives or security are threatened. It first considers the definition of the phrase ‘rescuing nationals abroad’ and the legal scope and legal nature of the justification based on the necessity of carrying out such an act. It analyses the opinion of the International Court of Justice concerning the matter before assessing the current position of international law on the permissibility of rescuing nationals abroad. It also discusses whether the use of force to rescue nationals abroad can be invoked for humanitarian assistance purposes involving non-nationals. The chapter shows that the notion of ‘rescuing nationals abroad’ is ambiguous from a legal perspective and that the legality of using force to rescue nationals abroad has remained unclear since 1945.
The Effects of a State of War or Armed Conflict
Authors: Mancini Marina
Published: July 2016

This chapter explores how a state of war or armed conflict affects the relations between belligerents, between belligerents and third states, and the belligerents’ subjects. It begins by describing how a state of war arose between two states, along with its far-reaching consequences, in classical international law. The effects on diplomatic relations, trade relations, treaties, and contracts are highlighted. The chapter then considers the prohibition on the use or threat of armed force in international relations and its implications for the concept of a state of war as well as the consequences traditionally attached to it. It also looks at state practice regarding the creation of a state of war in the United Nations era and concludes by analysing the effects of an interstate armed conflict in contemporary international law.
Expert Surveys as a Measurement Tool
Authors: Maestas Cherie
Published: July 2016

Polling political elites, academics, or other types of knowledgeable experts has provided scholars with a trove of information about political institutions, processes, and local context. Expert surveys are an especially useful method for measuring concepts that would be difficult or impossible to measure through alternative strategies and permits scholars to create indicators that are comparable across diverse contextual settings. This chapter provides an overview of the key questions researchers face when using experts as a tool of measurement. It highlights considerations regarding survey design, questionnaire design, and aggregation procedures with an eye toward identifying ways to enhance the validity and reliability of expert-based measures. The chapter also emphasizes the importance of design transparency and systematic reporting of procedures and measures of uncertainty about scores derived from expert surveys.
Public–Private Partnerships in Health Care
Authors: Bishop Simon , Waring Justin
Published: July 2016

This chapter provides an introduction to Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in health care. It provides contextual background to the worldwide growth of PPPs and discusses the various meanings attached to the term as well as key controversies surrounding their adoption into the public service landscape. It then introduces key developments in PPPs within the field of health care, outlining different types of PPP that have been established across the globe in light of distinct national contexts for the provision of health care and health challenges. Drawing on the authors’ own research into UK Independent Sector Treatment Centres as well as wider literature, the chapter then outlines key areas of deliberation for management and organization within PPPs. This covers issues of governance and accountability, managing innovation, managing culture and values, and managing employment.
Re-humanizing Health Care
Authors: Rathert Cheryl , Vogus Timothy J. , McClelland Laura
Published: July 2016

Patient-centered care (PCC) has been a focus of health care management for many years, with emphasis ranging from the policy and health system levels to individual care at the bedside. This chapter examines the state of PCC research and practice in the early 21st Century. We discuss how PCC has been defined by scholars, practitioners, and patients. We then review current trends in the use of patient experience measures, a key focus in efforts to improve health care delivery. Conceptually, we show that an essential component of PCC is a therapeutic relationship between care provider and patient; yet, many PCC measures do not capture this. Next we review research on work environment characteristics that influence PCC. We suggest that work environments that support caring and compassion, for patients as well as for care providers, best provide a foundation upon which high quality PCC can flourish.
Modernist Opera’s Stigmatized Subjects
Authors: Lee Sherry D.
Published: July 2016

While nineteenth-century opera saw its share of damaged and acutely afflicted bodies, and its music more frequently aestheticized suffering than it either objectified or sympathized with it, the early twentieth century saw a shift in emphasis with regard to the staged and musical representation of subjects stigmatized by congenital or permanent physical disabilities. This essay considers the ways in which the musicodramatic framework for interpretation, spectatorship, and identification in modernist opera (including depictions by Strauss, Schreker, and Zemlinsky of dwarves and hunchbacks) is subtly reconfigured according to shifting modernist aesthetic and sociocultural contexts, such that the visual and sonic signification of physical disability is conceptualized as a kind of metaphor for damaged subjectivity or personhood—a status not infrequently understood as encapsulating the broader fate of the modern self.