bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Organic Catalyst for Li–O2 Batteries: Dilithium Quinone‐1,4‐Dicarboxylate
Authors: Liu Jia , Renault Stéven , Brandell Daniel , Gustafsson Torbjörn , Edström Kristina , Zhu Jiefang
Published: June 2015

Solid organic electrocatalysts have hardly been tested in Li–O2 batteries. Here, a new solid organic electrocatalyst, dilithium quinone‐1,4‐dicarboxylate (Li2C8H2O6) is presented, which is expected to overcome the shortcomings of inorganic catalysts. The function‐oriented synthesis is low cost and low polluting. The electrocatalytic performance is evaluated by following the degradation of Li2O2 during the charge process in a Li–O2 cell through in situ XRD and operando synchrotron radiation powder XRD (SR‐PXD) measurements. The results indicate that the electrocatalytic activity of Li2C8H2O6 is similar to that of commercial Pt. The Li2O2 decomposition in a cell with Li2C8H2O6 catalyst follows a pseudo‐zero‐order reaction, virtually without any side reactions. These results provide an insight into the development of new organic catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in Li–O2 batteries.
Titanium(IV) in the Organic‐Structure‐Directing‐Agent‐Free Synthesis of Hydrophobic and Large‐Pore Molecular Sieves as Redox Catalysts
Authors: Wang Jingui , Yokoi Toshiyuki , Kondo Junko N. , Tatsumi Takashi , Zhao Yanli
Published: June 2015

Titanium(IV) incorporated into the framework of molecular sieves can be used as a highly active and sustainable catalyst for the oxidation of industrially important organic molecules. Unfortunately, the current process for the incorporation of titanium(IV) requires a large amount of expensive organic molecules used as organic‐structure‐directing agents (OSDAs), and this significantly increases the production costs and causes environmental problems owing to the removal of OSDAs by pyrolysis. Herein, an OSDA‐free process was developed to incorporate titanium(IV) into BEA‐type molecular sieves for the first time. More importantly, the hydrophobic environment and the robust, 3 D, and large pore structure of the titanium(IV)‐incorporated molecular sieves fabricated from the OSDA‐free process created a catalyst that was extremely active and selective for the epoxidation of bulky cyclooctene in comparison to Ti‐incorporated BEA‐type molecular sieves synthesized with OSDAs and commercial titanosilicate TS‐1.
Assessment of Transition Metals Toxicity in Environmental Matrices Using Potentiometric Electrodes: Inorganic Mercury(II) in the Seawater as a Case Study
Authors: Matos Marina R. A. , Gomes M. Teresa S. R. , Oliveira Joao A. B. P. , Alves Eliana , Cunha M. Angela S. D. A. , Almeida Adelaide , Rudnitskaya Alisa
Published: June 2015

Chalcogenide glass electrode was applied to the detection of mercury(II) activity in the saline bromide buffers and artificial seawater at the activity levels corresponding to the acute toxicity. Mercury(II) toxicity in artificial seawater buffers and estuarine water was assessed using bioassay based on the luminescence of the marine bacterium A. fischeri. Electrode could detect mercury activity in the artificial seawater at the level of acute toxicity, which corresponded to pHg 23.2 (time of exposure 5 min.). Both electrode and bioassay indicated higher Hg2+ activity/toxicity in the estuarine water collected in the contaminated area. Quantification of Hg2+ activity in estuarine water using the mercury‐selective electrode requires calibration procedure to account for matrix effects.
Electrochemically Stimulated DNA Release from a Polymer‐Brush Modified Electrode
Authors: Sempionatto Juliane R. , Gamella Maria , Guz Nataliia , Pingarrón José M. , Pedrosa Valber A. , Minko Sergiy , Katz Evgeny
Published: June 2015

Single‐stranded DNA molecules were loaded on the mixed poly(2‐vinylpyridine) (P2VP)/polyacrylic acid (PAA) brush covalently attached to an indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode. The DNA deposition was performed at pH 3.0 when the polymer brush is positively charged due to protonation of pyridine groups in P2VP, thus resulting in electrostatic binding of the negatively charged DNA. By applying electrolysis at −1.0 V (vs. Ag/AgCl reference) oxygen reduction resulted in the consumption of hydrogen ions and local pH increase in the vicinity of the electrode surface. The process resulted in the local pH ca. 7.5 which yielded the negative state of the mixed polymer‐brush due to dissociation of carboxylic groups of PAA. This resulted in the electrostatic repulsion and release of the loaded DNA. The developed approach allows cyclic load‐release of the DNA with the significantly increased amount of the released DNA comparing with previously reported systems. Further options for the improvements of the system are discussed.
Identification of compounds from high‐fat and extra virgin olive oil‐supplemented diets in whole mouse liver extracts and isolated mitochondria using mass spectrometry
Authors: dos Santos Gustavo Aparecido , Ferreira Mônica Siqueira , de Oliveira Diogo Noin , de Oliveira Vanessa , Siqueira‐Santos Edilene S. , Cintra Dennys Esper Corrêa , Castilho Roger Frigério , Velloso Lício Augusto , Catharino Rodrigo Ramos
Published: June 2015

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a fatty liver disorder that could be improved with extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) supplementation in diet. We propose the monitoring, in whole mouse liver extracts and in isolated mitochondria, of the absorption of compounds from three different diets: standard (CT), high‐fat (HFD) and high‐fat supplemented with EVOO (HFSO). Male mice were submitted to one of the following three diets: CT or HFD for 16 weeks or HFD for 8 weeks followed by additional 8 weeks with HFSO. Following this period, liver was extracted for histological evaluation, mitochondria isolation and mass spectrometry analyses. Diets, liver extracts and Percoll‐purified mitochondria were analyzed using ESI‐MS and the lipidomics approach. Morphological, histological and spectrometric results indicated a decrease in NASH severity with EVOO supplementation in comparison with animals maintained with HFD. Spectrometric data also demonstrated that some compounds presented on the diets are absorbed by the mitochondria. EVOO was shown to be a potential therapeutic alternative in food for NASH. Our results are in accordance with the proposition that the major factor that influences different responses to diets is their composition – and not only calories – especially when it comes to studies on obesity. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Doctors’ perspectives towards a bedside aminoglycoside therapeutic drug monitoring service: a collaboration between pharmacy and clinical pharmacology
Authors: Phillips Cameron J. , Chee Celine T. L. , Eaton Vaughn S. , Woodman Richard J. , Mangoni Arduino A.
Published: June 2015

Background

A computerised area‐under‐the‐curve aminoglycoside therapeutic drug monitoring (A‐TDM) and dosing service was implemented at Flinders Medical Centre.

Aim

To assess attitudes and perceptions of junior medical officers and A‐TDM service providers towards the use and impact of A‐TDM.

Methods

An electronic survey was sent to junior medical officers containing questions on: A‐TDM awareness, impact on dosing, duration of therapy, minimisation of toxicity and the effect of provision of the service on knowledge of TDM principles. To determine whether respondents also had generally negative or positive attitudes, we used K‐means cluster analysis. A‐TDM service providers were also surveyed.

Results

From 145 junior medical officers contacted, 49 (33%) responded: 34 interns and 15 residents. The majority of officers provided generally positive responses, with 38 stating that they were aware of A‐TDM, 17 that it often assisted in their patient management, 34 that it improved optimal dosing, 22 that it improved duration, 32 that it improved toxicity minimisation and 33 that it improved their understanding of TDM principles. Cluster analysis produced a positive attitudes group (n = 35) and a negative attitudes group (n = 14) with significantly different responses for each of the six questions (p < 0.01 for each), indicating consistently different attitudes towards the service. Twelve of thirteen A‐TDM service providers responded: eight pharmacy and four medical, reporting positive attitudes towards A‐TDM on treatment efficacy (n = 11), dose optimisation (n = 11) and patient safety (n = 12).

Conclusion

A significant proportion of respondents were aware of A‐TDM principles and demonstrated favourable attitudes towards its use for dose optimisation and for minimising toxicity.
Evaluation of the physicochemical compatibility of cyclosporin infusion and parenteral nutrition when intravenously administered via the same central line lumen
Authors: Coutsouvelis John , Dong Yao‐Da , Witney Kate , Li Wenyuan , Corallo Carmela
Published: June 2015

Background

Patients undergoing allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation require cyclosporin (CsA) infusion to be administered concurrently with parenteral nutrition (PN).

Aims

To evaluate the physicochemical compatibility of parenteral CsA and PN administered via the same lumen of a central venous access device and to quantify and identify any particulate matter.

Methods

Three PN formulations were tested. Standard PN solution and PN solution with glutamine manufactured by Baxter Healthcare and standard PN solution manufactured by Fresenius Kabi. CsA concentrate for intravenous infusion 250 mg/5 mL (Sandimmun, Novartis Pharmaceuticals) was used.

PN solutions were mixed with CsA at different volume ratios to simulate different rates of co‐infusion in clinical practice.

A real‐life simulation was also performed with CsA in glucose 5% co‐infused with the PN solution via the same lumen of a central venous access device.

The size of colloidal species in the resulting samples was measured using dynamic light scattering.

Results

The static experiments for all dilution ratios and types of PN with CsA indicated average particle diameters of less than 500 nm. Only one sample indicated a particle larger than 5 µm.

The ‘real‐life’ simulation did not detect any particle with diameter greater than 5 µm. This was across all types of PN solutions and for all samples taken at a number of time points up to 24 h.

Conclusion

Commercially available PN formulations can be administered concurrently with CsA via the same lumen of a central venous access device. For infusions running up to 24 h, there is minimal risk of particle formation with a diameter greater than 5 µm.
Advanced practice: a survey of current perspectives of Australian pharmacists
Authors: Jackson Shane , Martin Grant , Bergin Jennifer , Clark Bronwyn , Halstead Peter , Rowett Debra , Stupans Ieva , Galbraith Kirstie , Yeates Gilbert , Nissen Lisa , Marty Stephen , Gysslink Paul , Kirsa Sue , Coombes Ian , Matthews Andrew , Deans Kerry , Sorimachi Kay
Published: June 2015

Background

An Advanced Pharmacy Practice Framework for Australia (the ‘APPF’) was published in October 2012. Further to the release of the APPF, the Advanced Pharmacy Practice Framework Steering Committee planned to develop an advanced practice recognition model for Australian pharmacists.

Aim

To gauge the perspectives of the pharmacy profession relating to advanced practice, via an online survey, in order to inform the design of the model.

Method

A survey was developed and administered to Australian pharmacists through
SurveyMonkey
. The survey content was based on findings from a review of national and international initiatives for recognition of advanced practice in pharmacy and other health disciplines, including medicine and nursing.

Results

The results of the survey showed that a high proportion of respondents considered they were already working at, or working towards achieving, an advanced level of practice. The responses relating to the assessment methods showed a clear preference for ‘submission of a professional portfolio’. A ‘written examination’ had a low level of support and in relation to an ‘oral examination by a panel’ there was a marked preference for a panel of multidisciplinary health professionals over a panel of pharmacists.

Conclusion

The survey outcomes will inform the development of an advanced pharmacy practice recognition model for Australian pharmacists, particularly in relation to the assessment methods. Survey outcomes also demonstrated that there is scope to further enhance the application of the APPF in the development and recognition of advanced practitioners, and to build greater awareness of the breadth of competencies encompassed by ‘advanced practice’.
Liver resection and ablation for metastatic melanoma: A single center experience
Authors: Doussot Alexandre , Nardin Charlée , Takaki Haruyuki , Litchman Tess D. , D'Angelica Michael I. , Jarnagin William R. , Postow Michael A. , Erinjeri Joseph P. , Kingham T. Peter
Published: June 2015

BACKGROUND

The median survival for patients with stage IV metastatic melanoma is usually limited to approximately 1 year. In the case of liver metastasis, resection and ablation can achieve long‐term survival. This study aimed to describe the outcomes after liver resection or ablation for metastatic melanoma to the liver and identify preoperative prognostic factors.

METHODS

Forty eight patients who underwent liver resection (n = 32) or percutaneous ablation (n = 16) were identified from the 1,523 patients with melanoma liver metastases evaluated between January1993 and January 2013.

RESULTS

Median OS was 25.9 months. Median OS was not different after ablation (18 months) and resection (26 months; P > 0.2). Patients in the ablation group more often presented with extrahepatic disease (EHD) (P = 0.008) and received more frequently systemic therapy before ablation (P = 0.005). Patients without EHD tended to have longer OS (26.5 vs. 12 months; P = 0.076) and PFS (13 vs. 5 months; P = 0.11) in the whole cohort. EHD was significantly associated with a worse OS in the resection group (P = 0.034).

CONCLUSION

Liver resection is associated to prolonged survival over 24 months and should be considered only in selected patients with metastatic disease confined to the liver. In patients not candidate for surgery, tumor ablation can be considered. J. Surg. Oncol. 2015 111:962–968. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Factorial Validity of the Decisional Involvement Scale as a Measure of Content and Context of Nursing Practice
Authors: Yurek Leo A. , Havens Donna S. , Hays Spencer , Hughes Linda C.
Published: June 2015

Decisional involvement is widely recognized as an essential component of a professional nursing practice environment. In recent years, researchers have added to the conceptualization of nurses’ role in decision‐making to differentiate between the content and context of nursing practice. Yet, instruments that clearly distinguish between these two dimensions of practice are lacking. The purpose of this study was to examine the factorial validity of the Decisional Involvement Scale (DIS) as a measure of both the content and context of nursing practice. This secondary analysis was conducted using data from a longitudinal action research project to improve the quality of nursing practice and patient care in six hospitals (N = 1,034) in medically underserved counties of Pennsylvania. A cross‐sectional analysis of baseline data from the parent study was used to compare the factor structure of two models (one nested within the other) using confirmatory factor analysis. Although a comparison of the two models indicated that the addition of second‐order factors for the content and context of nursing practice improved model fit, neither model provided optimal fit to the data. Additional model‐generating research is needed to develop the DIS as a valid measure of decisional involvement for both the content and context of nursing practice. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Novel synthesis and characterization of conductive and flame retardant textile fabrics
Authors: Attia Nour F. , El Ebissy Amal A. , Hassan Mohamed A.
Published: June 2015

New smart flame retardant textile fabrics have been developed. Halloysite nanotubes have been used as flame retardant filler for textile fabrics. A facile and environmentally friendly vapor phase polymerization method was used for the polymerization of polypyrrole layer covering the surface of halloysite nanotubes and textile fabrics. The developed fabrics achieved interesting electrical conductivity properties. The electrical resistance of the developed one reached up to 0.21 kΩ compared with the 45,000 kΩ for blank textile fabrics, which represent the enhancement in the electrical conductivity of the new textile nanocomposites. The flame retardancy and thermal stability of the new textile nanocomposites were improved. The rate of burning was recorded as zero and 149.3 mm min−1 for developed textile nanocomposites and blank, respectively, achieving high class fire resistant fabrics. The electrical and flame retardancy properties were controlled by the preparation method. In addition, the mechanical properties of the developed fabrics were studied to achieve an enhancement in elongation. The blank and developed textiles were characterized by microscopic and spectroscopic techniques, thermal gravimetric analysis, mechanical testing and electrical resistivity measurements. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pharmacological profiling of the hemodynamic effects of cannabinoid ligands: a combined in vitro and in vivo approach
Authors: Walsh Sarah K. , Hepburn Claire Y. , Keown Oliver , Åstrand Annika , Lindblom Anna , Ryberg Erik , Hjorth Stephan , Leslie Stephan J. , Greasley Peter J. , Wainwright Cherry L.
Published: June 2015

The receptors mediating the hemodynamic responses to cannabinoids are not clearly defined due to the multifarious pharmacology of many commonly used cannabinoid ligands. While both CB1 and TRPV1 receptors are implicated, G protein‐coupled receptor 55 (GPR55) may also mediate some of the hemodynamic effects of several atypical cannabinoid ligands. The present studies attempted to unravel the pharmacology underlying the in vivo hemodynamic responses to ACEA (CB1 agonist), O‐1602 (GPR55 agonist), AM251 (CB1 antagonist), and cannabidiol (CBD; GPR55 antagonist). Agonist and antagonist profiles of each ligand were determined by ligand‐induced GTPγS binding in membrane preparations expressing rat and mouse CB1 and GPR55 receptors. Blood pressure responses to ACEA and O‐1602 were recorded in anesthetized and conscious mice (wild type, CB1−/− and GPR55−/−) and rats in the absence and presence of AM251 and CBD. ACEA demonstrated GTPγS activation at both receptors, while O‐1602 only activated GPR55. AM251 exhibited antagonist activity at CB1 and agonist activity at GPR55, while CBD demonstrated selective antagonist activity at GPR55. The depressor response to ACEA was blocked by AM251 and attenuated by CBD, while O‐1602 did not induce a depressor response. AM251 caused a depressor response that was absent in GPR55−/− mice but enhanced by CBD, while CBD caused a small vasodepressor response that persisted in GPR55−/− mice. Our findings show that assessment of the pharmacological profile of receptor activation by cannabinoid ligands in in vitro studies alongside in vivo functional studies is essential to understand the role of cannabinoids in hemodynamic control.
TRO40303, a mitochondrial‐targeted cytoprotective compound, provides protection in hepatitis models
Authors: Schaller Sophie , Michaud Magali , Latyszenok Virginie , Robert Fabrice , Hocine Mélanie , Arnoux Thomas , Gabriac Mélanie , Codoul Hélène , Bourhane Ahmed , de Bellefois Isabel Clémançon , Afxantidis Jean , Pruss Rebecca M.
Published: June 2015

TRO40303 is cytoprotective compound that was shown to reduce infarct size in preclinical models of myocardial infarction. It targets mitochondria, delays mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening and reduces oxidative stress in cardiomyocytes submitted to ischemia/reperfusion in vitro. Because the involvement of the mitochondria and the mPTP has been demonstrated in chronic as well as acute hepatitis, we investigated the potential of TRO40303 to prevent hepatocyte injury. A first set of in vitro studies showed that TRO40303 (from 0.3 to 3 μmol/L) protected HepG2 cells and primary mouse embryonic hepatocytes (PMEH) from palmitate intoxication, a model mimicking steatohepatitis. In PMEH, TRO40303 provided similar protection against cell death due to Jo2 anti‐Fas antibody intoxication. Further studies were then preformed in a mouse model of Fas‐induced fulminant hepatitis induced by injecting Jo2 anti‐Fas antibody. When mice received a sublethal dose of Jo2 at 125 μg/kg, TRO40303 pretreatment prevented liver enzyme elevation in plasma in parallel with a decrease in cytochrome C release from mitochondria and caspase 3 and 7 activation in hepatic tissue. When higher, lethal doses of Jo2 were administered, TRO40303 (10 and 30 mg/kg) significantly reduced mortality by 65–90% when administered intraperitoneally (i.p.) 1 h before Jo2 injection, a time when TRO40303 plasma concentrations reached their peak. TRO40303 (30 mg/kg, i.p.) was also able to reduce mortality by 30–50% when administered 1 h postlethal Jo2 intoxication. These results suggest that TRO40303 could be a promising new therapy for the treatment or prevention of hepatitis.
Dimeric human sulfotransferase 1B1 displays cofactor‐dependent subunit communication
Authors: Tibbs Zachary E. , Falany Charles N.
Published: June 2015

The cytosolic sulfotransferases (SULTs) are dimeric enzymes that catalyze the transformation of hydrophobic drugs and hormones into hydrophilic sulfate esters thereby providing the body with an important pathway for regulating small molecule activity and excretion. WhileSULTdimerization is highly conserved, the necessity for the interaction has not been established. To perform its function, aSULTmust efficiently bind the universal sulfate donor, 3′‐phosphoadenosine‐5′‐phosphosulfate (PAPS), and release the byproduct, 3′, 5′‐diphosphoadenosine (PAP), following catalysis. We hypothesize this efficient binding and release ofPAPS/PAPmay be connected toSULTdimerization. To allow for the visualization of dynamic protein interactions critical for addressing this hypothesis and to generate kinetically testable hypotheses, molecular dynamic simulations (MDS) ofhSULT1B1 were performed withPAPSandPAPbound to each dimer subunit in various combinations. The results suggest the dimer subunits may possess the capability of communicating with one another in a manner dependent on the presence of the cofactor.PAPorPAPSbinding to a single side of the dimer results in decreased backbone flexibility of both the bound and unbound subunits, implying the dimer subunits may not act independently. Further, binding ofPAPto one subunit of the dimer andPAPSto the other caused increased flexibility in the subunit bound to the inactive cofactor (PAP). These results suggestSULTdimerization may be important in maintaining cofactor binding/release properties ofSULTs and provide hypothetical explanations forSULThalf‐site reactivity and substrate inhibition, which can be analyzed in vitro.
Evaluation of biomarkers for in vitro prediction of drug‐induced nephrotoxicity: comparison of HK‐2, immortalized human proximal tubule epithelial, and primary cultures of human proximal tubular cells
Authors: Huang Johnny X. , Kaeslin Geraldine , Ranall Max V. , Blaskovich Mark A. , Becker Bernd , Butler Mark S. , Little Melissa H. , Lash Lawrence H. , Cooper Matthew A.
Published: June 2015

There has been intensive effort to identify in vivo biomarkers that can be used to monitor drug‐induced kidney damage and identify injury before significant impairment occurs. Kidney injury molecule‐1 (KIM‐1), neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL), and human macrophage colony stimulating factor (M‐CSF) have been validated as urinary and plasma clinical biomarkers predictive of acute and chronic kidney injury and disease. Similar validation of a high throughput in vitro assay predictive of nephrotoxicity could potentially be implemented early in drug discovery lead optimization to reduce attrition at later stages of drug development. To assess these known in vivo biomarkers for their potential for in vitro screening of drug‐induced nephrotoxicity, we selected a panel of nephrotoxic agents and examined their effects on the overexpression of nephrotoxicity biomarkers in immortalized (HK‐2) and primary (commercially available and freshly in‐house produced) human renal proximal tubule epithelial cells. Traditional cytotoxicity was contrasted with expression levels of KIM‐1, NGAL, and M‐CSF assessed using ELISA and real‐time quantitative reverse transcription PCR. Traditional cytotoxicity assays and biomarker assays using HK‐2 cells were both unsuitable for prediction of nephrotoxicity. However, increases in protein levels of KIM‐1 and NGAL in primary cells were well correlated with dose levels of known nephrotoxic compounds, with limited correlation seen in M‐CSF protein and mRNA levels. These results suggest that profiling compounds against primary cells with monitoring of biomarker protein levels may have potential as in vitro predictive assays of drug‐induced nephrotoxicity.
Parental problem drinking and adolescent externalizing behaviors: The mediating role of family functioning
Authors: Finan Laura J. , Schulz Jessica , Gordon Mellissa S. , Ohannessian Christine McCauley
Published: June 2015

This study explored relationships among parental problem drinking, family functioning, and adolescent externalizing behaviors. The unique effects of maternal and paternal drinking were examined separately for girls and boys. The sample included 14–19 year old U.S. adolescents (Mage = 16.15; SD = .75; 52.5% female) and their parents. Participants completed surveys in the spring of 2007 and 2008. Structural equation modeling was used to conduct path analysis models. Results showed the distinctive and adverse effects of parental problem drinking on adolescent alcohol use, drug use, rule breaking, and aggressive behavior over time. Findings also highlighted the indirect and mediating roles of family functioning. For both girls and boys, family cohesion mediated the relationship between parental problem drinking and adolescent externalizing behaviors. For girls, adolescent–father communication predicted increased externalizing behaviors over time. These findings draw attention to the importance of exploring adolescent and parent gender when examining parental problem drinking, family functioning, and externalizing behaviors.
miR‐362‐5p inhibits proliferation and migration of neuroblastoma cells by targeting phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase‐C2β
Authors: Wu Kai , Yang Liucheng , Chen Jianfeng , Zhao Haijun , Wang Jianjun , Xu Shuai , Huang Zonghai
Published: June 2015

miR‐362‐5p is down‐regulated in high‐risk neuroblastoma and can function as a tumor suppressor. However, its role remains poorly understood. We show that miR‐362‐5p is down‐regulated in metastatic neuroblastoma compared with primary neuroblastoma. Overexpression of miR‐362‐5p inhibits cell proliferation, migration and invasion of neuroblastoma cells in vitro and suppresses tumor growth of neuroblastoma in vivo. Phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K)‐C2β is a target of miR‐362‐5p. Knockdown of PI3K‐C2β by siRNA had a similar effect to overexpression of miR‐362‐5p on SH‐SY5Y cells. Overexpression of PI3K‐C2β partially reversed tumor‐suppressive effects of miR‐362‐5p. We suggest that miR‐362‐5p suppresses neuroblastoma cell growth and motility, partially by targeting PI3K‐C2β.
Functional advantages of dynamic protein disorder
Authors: Berlow Rebecca B. , Dyson H. Jane , Wright Peter E.
Published: June 2015

Intrinsically disordered proteins participate in many important cellular regulatory processes. The absence of a well‐defined structure in the free state of a disordered domain, and even on occasion when it is bound to physiological partners, is fundamental to its function. Disordered domains are frequently the location of multiple sites for post‐translational modification, the key element of metabolic control in the cell. When a disordered domain folds upon binding to a partner, the resulting complex buries a far greater surface area than in an interaction of comparably‐sized folded proteins, thus maximizing specificity at modest protein size. Disorder also maintains accessibility of sites for post‐translational modification. Because of their inherent plasticity, disordered domains frequently adopt entirely different structures when bound to different partners, increasing the repertoire of available interactions without the necessity for expression of many different proteins. This feature also adds to the faithfulness of cellular regulation, as the availability of a given disordered domain depends on competition between various partners relevant to different cellular processes.
Firing properties of auditory primary afferents from the basilar papilla in the chick
Authors: Galicia Salvador , Cortes Celso , Cebada Jorge , Méndez‐Balbuena Ignacio , Flores Amira
Published: June 2015

We performed intracellular and single‐unit extracellular recordings of neurons from different regions of the basilar papilla in the isolated chicken inner ear. We compared the spontaneous activity and the response properties of these neurons in embryos at E15 versus posthatching animals at P1. The recordings were carried out from the apical (position 0) to the basal extension at three positions of the basilar papilla, at 5%, 10% and 40% of the entire length of the cochlea. We found that the neurons at E15 recorded from these three regions exhibited a significant higher coefficient of variation compared with those neurons at P1 recorded in the same positions. This shows that in the posthatching age P1 the neurons from the whole basilar papilla become less irregular. We found that the intracellular action potential waveforms generated at E15 had small amplitudes and small depolarization slopes in comparison to those recorded at P1, respectively (53 ± 1 mV vs. 62 ± 2 mV; 66 ± 12 mV/msec vs. 166 ± 23 mV/msec). Furthermore, we also found that the response patterns to injection of current steps were phasic, tonic, or in the form of a not yet reported “burst” pattern. Our study shows that the low irregular discharge, the immature action potential waveforms, and the differences in the response patterns to current injection, highlights the important differences between neurons at E15 and P1, consistent with the incapacity of auditory neurons at embryonic age E16, to respond at sound levels <100 decibels.
Chronic overexpression of cerebral Epo improves the ventilatory response to acute hypoxia during the postnatal development
Authors: Caravagna Céline , Schneider Gasser Edith M. , Ballot Orlane , Joseph Vincent , Soliz Jorge
Published: June 2015

Clinicians observed that the treatment of premature human newborns for anemia with erythropoietin (Epo) also improved their respiratory autonomy. This observation is in line with our previous in vitro studies showing that acute and chronic Epo stimulation enhances fictive breathing of brainstem‐spinal cord preparations of postnatal day 3–4 mice during hypoxia. Furthermore, we recently reported that the antagonization of the cerebral Epo (by using the soluble Epo receptor; sEpoR) significantly reduced the basal ventilation and the hypoxic ventilatory response of 10 days old mice. In this study, we used transgenic (Tg21) mice to investigate the effect of the chronic cerebral Epo overexpression on the modulation of the normoxic and hypoxic ventilatory drive during the post‐natal development. Ventilation was evaluated by whole body plethysmography at postnatal ages 3 (P3), 7 (P7), 15 (P15) and 21 (P21). In addition Epo quantification was performed by RIA and mRNA EpoR was evaluated by qRT‐PCR. Our results showed that compared to control animals the chronic Epo overexpression stimulates the hypoxic (but not the normoxic) ventilation assessed as at the ages of P3 and P21. More interestingly, we observed that at P7 and P15 the chronic Epo stimulation of ventilation was attenuated by the down regulation of the Epo receptor in brainstem areas. We conclude that Epo, by stimulating ventilation in brainstem areas crucially helps tolerating physiological (e.g., high altitude) and/or pathological (e.g., respiratory disorders, prematurity, etc.) oxygen deprivation at postnatal ages.
Association between pre-hospital vitamin D status and hospital-acquired new-onset delirium
Authors: Quraishi Sadeq A. , Litonjua Augusto A. , Elias Kevin M. , Gibbons Fiona K. , Giovannucci Edward , Camargo Carlos A. , Christopher Kenneth B.
Published: June 2015

The goal of the present study was to determine whether pre-hospital 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels are associated with the risk of hospital-acquired new-onset delirium (HANOD). We performed a retrospective cohort study of 4508 adult inpatients at two teaching hospitals in Boston from 1993 to 2006. All patients had 25(OH)D levels measured before hospital admission. The main outcome measure was HANOD, defined as the onset of delirium during an acute care hospitalisation. Patients with a history of delirium or dementia, or those with a diagnosis of delirium or dementia upon acute care hospitalisation were excluded from the analysis. To test the association of pre-hospital 25(OH)D levels with HANOD, we constructed a multivariable logistic regression model to adjust for clinically relevant covariates. Among our patient cohort, the mean 25(OH)D level was 22 (sd13) ng/ml and approximately 4 % of patients met the criteria for HANOD. Following adjustment for age, sex, race (non-whitev.white), patient type (medicalv.surgical) and Deyo–Charlson Index, patients with 25(OH)D levels < 10, 10–19·9 and 20–29·9 ng/ml had higher odds of HANOD than patients with 25(OH)D levels ≥ 30 ng/ml: OR 2·15 (95 % CI 1·32, 3·50), OR 1·54 (95 % CI 0·98, 2·43) and OR 1·23 (95 % CI, 0·76, 1·99), respectively. These data support the rationale for randomised, controlled trials to test the role of vitamin D supplementation in the prevention of HANOD.
‘ENTIRELY CHRISTIAN AND ENTIRELY AFRICAN’: CATHOLIC AFRICAN STUDENTS IN FRANCE IN THE ERA OF INDEPENDENCE
Authors: FOSTER ELIZABETH
Published: June 2015

This article examines the activism of militant Catholic African students in France in the 1950s. Largely left out of the historiography of the period, they developed a unique perspective on Africa's future, informed by their dual (and often fraught) identity as Africans and Catholics. They undertook a strident campaign to convince French Catholics and the Church hierarchy of the necessity of decolonization, trying to change the Church from the inside.
Une lésion cutanée pas si exotique
Authors: Ebiner Jérôme , Gaide Olivier , Pedrazzini Baptiste
Published: June 2015

Wir präsentieren den Fall eines 71-jährigen Mannes, der von einer Reise aus einem exotischen Land zurück gekommen ist und krustige, persistierende Ulzera an den Beinen aufweist. Nach zahlreichen Untersuchungen zum Auschluss einer tropischen Krankheit konnten wir anhand des Wundabstrichs die Diagnose stellen.
Neonatal environment exerts a sustained influence on the development of the intestinal microbiota and metabolic phenotype
Authors: Merrifield Claire A , Lewis Marie C , Berger Bernard , Cloarec Olivier , Heinzmann Silke S , Charton Florence , Krause Lutz , Levin Nadine S , Duncker Swantje , Mercenier Annick , Holmes Elaine , Bailey Mick , Nicholson Jeremy K
Published: June 2015

The postnatal environment, including factors such as weaning and acquisition of the gut microbiota, has been causally linked to the development of later immunological diseases such as allergy and autoimmunity, and has also been associated with a predisposition to metabolic disorders. We show that the very early-life environment influences the development of both the gut microbiota and host metabolic phenotype in a porcine model of human infants. Farm piglets were nursed by their mothers for 1 day, before removal to highly controlled, individual isolators where they received formula milk until weaning at 21 days. The experiment was repeated, to create two batches, which differed only in minor environmental fluctuations during the first day. At day 1 after birth, metabolic profiling of serum by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy demonstrated significant, systemic, inter-batch variation which persisted until weaning. However, the urinary metabolic profiles demonstrated that significant inter-batch effects on 3-hydroxyisovalerate, trimethylamine-N-oxide and mannitol persisted beyond weaning to at least 35 days. Batch effects were linked to significant differences in the composition of colonic microbiota at 35 days, determined by 16 S pyrosequencing. Different weaning diets modulated both the microbiota and metabolic phenotype independently of the persistent batch effects. We demonstrate that the environment during the first day of life influences development of the microbiota and metabolic phenotype and thus should be taken into account when interrogating experimental outcomes. In addition, we suggest that intervention at this early time could provide ‘metabolic rescue’ for at-risk infants who have undergone aberrant patterns of initial intestinal colonisation.
Diversity and functions of bacterial community in drinking water biofilms revealed by high-throughput sequencing
Authors: Chao Yuanqing , Mao Yanping , Wang Zhiping , Zhang Tong
Published: June 2015

The development of biofilms in drinking water (DW) systems may cause various problems to water quality. To investigate the community structure of biofilms on different pipe materials and the global/specific metabolic functions of DW biofilms, PCR-based 454 pyrosequencing data for 16S rRNA genes and Illumina metagenomic data were generated and analysed. Considerable differences in bacterial diversity and taxonomic structure were identified between biofilms formed on stainless steel and biofilms formed on plastics, indicating that the metallic materials facilitate the formation of higher diversity biofilms. Moreover, variations in several dominant genera were observed during biofilm formation. Based on PCA analysis, the global functions in the DW biofilms were similar to other DW metagenomes. Beyond the global functions, the occurrences and abundances of specific protective genes involved in the glutathione metabolism, the SoxRS system, the OxyR system, RpoS regulated genes and the production/degradation of extracellular polymeric substances were also evaluated. A near-complete and low-contamination draft genome was constructed from the metagenome of the DW biofilm, based on the coverage and tetranucleotide frequencies and identified as a Bradyrhizobiaceae-like bacterium according to a phylogenetic analysis. Our findings provide new insight into DW biofilms, especially in terms of their metabolic functions.
High resolution imaging of intracellular oxygen concentration by phosphorescence lifetime
Authors: Kurokawa Hiromi , Ito Hidehiro , Inoue Mai , Tabata Kenji , Sato Yoshifumi , Yamagata Kazuya , Kizaka-Kondoh Shinae , Kadonosono Tetsuya , Yano Shigenobu , Inoue Masahiro , Kamachi Toshiaki
Published: June 2015

Optical methods using phosphorescence quenching by oxygen are suitable for sequential monitoring and non-invasive measurements for oxygen concentration (OC) imaging within cells. Phosphorescence intensity measurement is widely used with phosphorescent dyes. These dyes are ubiquitously but heterogeneously distributed inside the whole cell. The distribution of phosphorescent dye is a major disadvantage in phosphorescence intensity measurement. We established OC imaging system for a single cell using phosphorescence lifetime and a laser scanning confocal microscope. This system had improved spatial resolution and reduced the measurement time with the high repetition rate of the laser. By the combination of ubiquitously distributed phosphorescent dye with this lifetime imaging microscope, we can visualize the OC inside the whole cell and spheroid. This system uses reversible phosphorescence quenching by oxygen, so it can measure successive OC changes from normoxia to anoxia. Lower regions of OC inside the cell colocalized with mitochondria. The time-dependent OC change in an insulin-producing cell line MIN6 by the glucose stimulation was successfully visualized. Assessing the detailed distribution and dynamics of OC inside cells achieved by the presented system will be useful to understanding a physiological and pathological oxygen metabolism.
Generation of a variety of stable Influenza A reporter viruses by genetic engineering of the NS gene segment
Authors: Reuther Peter , Göpfert Kristina , Dudek Alexandra H. , Heiner Monika , Herold Susanne , Schwemmle Martin
Published: June 2015

Influenza A viruses (IAV) pose a constant threat to the human population and therefore a better understanding of their fundamental biology and identification of novel therapeutics is of upmost importance. Various reporter-encoding IAV were generated to achieve these goals, however, one recurring difficulty was the genetic instability especially of larger reporter genes. We employed the viral NS segment coding for the non-structural protein 1 (NS1) and nuclear export protein (NEP) for stable expression of diverse reporter proteins. This was achieved by converting the NS segment into a single open reading frame (ORF) coding for NS1, the respective reporter and NEP. To allow expression of individual proteins, the reporter genes were flanked by two porcine Teschovirus-1 2A peptide (PTV-1 2A)-coding sequences. The resulting viruses encoding luciferases, fluorescent proteins or a Cre recombinase are characterized by a high genetic stability in vitro and in mice and can be readily employed for antiviral compound screenings, visualization of infected cells or cells that survived acute infection.
Wooden-tip electrospray ionization mass spectrometry for trace analysis of toxic and hazardous compounds in food samples
Authors: Yang Bi-cheng , Wang Feng , Deng Wei , Zou Yang , Liu Fa-ying , Wan Xi-di , Yang Xiao , Liu Huai , Huang Ou-ping
Published: June 2015

Wooden-tip electrospray ionization (wooden-tip ESI) is applied to the rapid, in situ, direct qualitative and quantitative trace analysis of toxic and hazardous compounds in food samples.
Electrophilic phosphonium cations catalyze hydroarylation and hydrothiolation of olefins
Authors: Pérez Manuel , Mahdi Tayseer , Hounjet Lindsay J. , Stephan Douglas W.
Published: June 2015

Electrophilic phosphonium cations (EPCs) are efficient main group catalysts for the hydroarylation and hydrothiolations of olefins under mild conditions, providing a facile route to substituted aniline, bis-arylamine, phenol, furan, thiophene, pyrrole, indole and thioether derivatives.
A microRNA-activated molecular machine for non-enzymatic target recycling amplification detection of microRNA from cancer cells
Authors: Li Xin , Li Daxiu , Zhou Wenjiao , Chai Yaqin , Yuan Ruo , Xiang Yun
Published: June 2015

A DNA-fueled molecular machine enables non-enzymatic target recycling amplification detection of microRNA from human prostate cancer cells.
Creating a synergistic interplay between tubular MoS2 and particulate Fe3O4 for improved lithium storage
Authors: Zhu Xiao-Dong , Wang Ke-Xin , Yan Du-Juan , Le Shi-Ru , Ma Ru-Jia , Sun Ke-Ning , Liu Yi-Tao
Published: June 2015

A novel 3D MoS2@Fe3O4 nanohybrid, composed of tubular MoS2 uniformly and densely decorated with particulate Fe3O4, is constructed, which exhibits significantly improved lithium storage performances through an impressive synergistic interplay between the two active materials.
Combined chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy using a nanohybrid based on layered double hydroxides to conquer cisplatin resistance
Authors: Wang Zhigang , Ma Rong , Yan Li , Chen Xianfeng , Zhu Guangyu
Published: June 2015

Combined chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy using a nanohybrid based on layered double hydroxides is very effective in killing cisplatin-resistant cancer cells.
Analysis of the structure of nanocomposites of triglyceride platelets and DNA
Authors: Schmiele Martin , Knittel Charlotte , Unruh Tobias , Busch Sebastian , Morhenn Humphrey , Boesecke Peter , Funari Sérgio S. , Schweins Ralf , Lindner Peter , Westermann Martin , Steiniger Frank
Published: June 2015

DNA-complexes with platelet-like, cationically modified lipid nanoparticles (cLNPs) are studied with regard to the formation of nanocomposite structures with a sandwich-like arrangement of the DNA and platelets.
Magnetic liposomes based on nickel ferrite nanoparticles for biomedical applications
Authors: Rodrigues Ana Rita O. , Gomes I. T. , Almeida Bernardo G. , Araújo J. P. , Castanheira Elisabete M. S. , Coutinho Paulo J. G.
Published: June 2015

Aqueous and dry magnetoliposomes containing NiFe2O4nanoparticles were prepared using a new method and fusion with model membranes was demonstrated.
Contrasting the optical properties of the different isomers of oligophenylene
Authors: Guiglion Pierre , Zwijnenburg Martijn A.
Published: June 2015

We use a combination of Time-Dependent Density Functional Theory (TD-DFT) and approximate Coupled Cluster Theory (RI-CC2) to compare trends in the optical gap and fluorescence energies of ortho-, meta- and para-oligomers of phenylene.
Advanced lipid systems containing β-carotene: stability under UV-vis radiation and application on porcine skin in vitro
Authors: Fernández Estibalitz , Rodríguez Gelen , Cócera Mercedes , Barbosa-Barros Lucyanna , Alonso Cristina , López-Iglesias Carmen , Jawhari Tariq , de la Maza Alfonso , López Olga
Published: June 2015

Phospholipid-based nanostructures, bicelles and bicosomes, are proposed as carriers of the antioxidant β-carotene.
Water as a morphological probe to study polymer–filler interfaces: an original application of thermoporosimetry
Authors: Sidi Ahmedou , Larché Jean-François , Bussière Pierre-Olivier , Gardette Jean-Luc , Therias Sandrine , Baba Mohamed
Published: June 2015

This paper is devoted to the characterization of polymer–filler interfaces by thermoporosimetry using water as a probe.
An investigation of a novel MnO2network-Ni/PVDF double shell/core membrane as an anode for lithium ion batteries
Authors: Zhang Yan , Xiao Qizhen , Lei Gangtie , Li Zhaohui
Published: June 2015

A novel MnO2network-Ni/PVDF double shell/core fiber 3D membrane composite has been synthesised for the first time and applied as an anode material in lithium-ion batteries, delivering excellent electrochemical performance.
The origin of specificity and insight into recognition between an aminoacyl carrier protein and its partner ligase
Authors: Maršavelski Aleksandra , Močibob Marko , Gruić-Sovulj Ita , Vianello Robert
Published: June 2015

Molecular dynamics simulations reveal how a ligase discriminates between the three types of the aminoacyl carrier proteins differing only in the form of the attached prosthetic group.
Effects of electrolyte, catalyst, and membrane composition and operating conditions on the performance of solar-driven electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide
Authors: Singh Meenesh R. , Clark Ezra L. , Bell Alexis T.
Published: June 2015

Identified optimal cell design and operating conditions for efficient solar-driven electrochemical reduction of CO2. Developed a method to predict polarization losses from the experimental data.
Thermal properties of lignin in copolymers, blends, and composites: a review
Authors: Sen Sanghamitra , Patil Shradha , Argyropoulos Dimitris S.
Published: June 2015

Modulating thermal propertiesvialignin copolymers, blends, and composites.
Microwave-assisted synthesis, molecular docking and antiproliferative activity of (3/5-aryl-1,2,4-oxadiazole-5/3-yl)(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)methanone oxime derivatives
Authors: Guan Qi , Feng Dongjie , Bai Zhaoshi , Cui Yuanhang , Zuo Daiying , Zhai Min'an , Jiang Xuewei , Zhou Wenbo , Bao Kai , Wu Yingliang , Zhang Weige
Published: June 2015

A microwave-assisted synthesis method of building a 1,2,4-oxadiazole skeleton was developed.
O-Glycosylation methods in the total synthesis of complex natural glycosides
Authors: Yang You , Zhang Xiaheng , Yu Biao
Published: June 2015

We highlight the total syntheses of 33 complex natural O-glycosides, with a particular focus on the O-glycosylation methods that enable the connection of the saccharides and aglycones.