bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trypanosoma cruzi infection in captive Neotropical primates in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Bahia Michele , de Nazaré Leite Barros Flávia , Magalhães‐Matos Paulo Cesar , de Souza Gonçalves Thamirys , Chiesorin Neto Laerzio , Oliveira Faria Diogo Cesar Lagroteria , Aparecida Romeiro Sandra , Barros Monteiro Frederico Ozanan , Góes‐Cavalcante Gustavo , Scofield Alessandra
Published: November 2016

The aim of this study was to detect the infection by Trypanosoma cruzi in captive Neotropical primates in the Brazilian Amazon. From February 2013 to July 2014, 112 blood samples were collected from Neotropical primates from the Amazonas, Amapá, and Pará States, north of Brazil. The subjects belonged to the families Cebidae (N = 59), Atelidae (N = 41), Callitrichidae (N = 5), Pitheciidae (N = 4), and Aotidae (N = 3). Blood smears also were examined for the presence of trypomastigotes by optical microscopy. For the detection of T. cruzi DNA, a Nested‐PCR with primers TCZ1/TCZ2 and TCZ3/TCZ4 was performed. T. cruzi DNA was detected in 12.5% (14/112) of Neotropical primates examined. Positive samples were detected in 16%, 12.5%, and 11.11% of the different species of primates sampled from the Amapá, Pará, and Amazonas states, respectively. The analysis of the blood smears did not reveal trypomastigote forms of T. cruzi. In conclusion, Neotropical primates kept in captivity were infected by T. cruzi in the studied areas. We recommend that a health management protocol be put into place to prevent the transmission of infectious agents among captive populations, captive and wild populations, and between NHPs and the technicians who handle these animals.
The Stability Challenges of Oxygen Evolving Catalysts: Towards a Common Fundamental Understanding and Mitigation of Catalyst Degradation
Authors: Spöri Camillo , Kwan Jason Tai Hong , Bonakdarpour Arman , Wilkinson David P. , Strasser Peter
Published: November 2016

This Review addresses the technical challenges, scientific basis, recent progress, and outlook with respect to the stability and degradation of catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) operating at electrolyzer anodes in acidic environments with an emphasis on ion exchange membrane applications. First, the term “catalyst stability” is clarified, as well as current performance targets, major catalyst degradation mechanisms, and their mitigation strategies. Suitable in situ experimental methods are then evaluated to give insight into catalyst degradation and possible pathways to tune OER catalyst stability. Finally, the importance of identifying universal figures of merit for stability is highlighted, leading to a comprehensive accelerated lifetime test that could yield comparable performance data across different laboratories and catalyst types. The aim of this Review is to help disseminate and stress the important relationships between structure, composition, and stability of OER catalysts under different operating conditions.
Curcumin prevents mitochondrial dynamics disturbances in early 5/6 nephrectomy: Relation to oxidative stress and mitochondrial bioenergetics
Authors: Aparicio‐Trejo Omar Emiliano , Tapia Edilia , Molina‐Jijón Eduardo , Medina‐Campos Omar Noel , Macías‐Ruvalcaba Norma Angélica , León‐Contreras Juan Carlos , Hernández‐Pando Rogelio , García‐Arroyo Fernando E. , Cristóbal Magdalena , Sánchez‐Lozada Laura Gabriela , Pedraza‐Chaverri José
Published: November 2016

Five‐sixths nephrectomy (5/6NX) is a widely used model to study the mechanisms leading to renal damage in chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, early alterations on renal function, mitochondrial dynamics, and oxidative stress have not been explored yet. Curcumin is an antioxidant that has shown nephroprotection in 5/6NX‐induced renal damage. The aim of this study was to explore the effect of curcumin on early mitochondrial alterations induced by 5/6NX in rats. In isolated mitochondria, 5/6NX‐induced hydrogen peroxide production was associated with decreased activity of complexes I and V, decreased activity of antioxidant enzymes, alterations in oxygen consumption and increased MDA‐protein adducts. In addition, it was found that 5/6NX shifted mitochondrial dynamics to fusion, which was evidenced by increased optic atrophy 1 and mitofusin 1 (Mfn1) and decreased fission 1 and dynamin‐related protein 1 expressions. These data were confirmed by morphological analysis and immunoelectron microscopy of Mfn‐1. All the above‐described mechanisms were prevented by curcumin. Also, it was found that curcumin prevented renal dysfunction by improving renal blood flow and the total antioxidant capacity induced by 5/6NX. Moreover, in glomeruli and proximal tubules 5/6NX‐induced superoxide anion production by uncoupled nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase (NOX) dependent way, this latter was associated with increased phosphorylation of serine 304 of p47phox subunit of NOX. In conclusion, this study shows that curcumin pretreatment decreases early 5/6NX‐induced altered mitochondrial dynamics, bioenergetics, and oxidative stress, which may be associated with the preservation of renal function. © 2016 BioFactors, 43(2):293–310, 2017
Cooperation between the bacterial‐derived short‐chain fatty acid butyrate and interleukin‐22 detected in human Caco2 colon epithelial/carcinoma cells
Authors: Bachmann Malte , Meissner Carlotta , Pfeilschifter Josef , Mühl Heiko
Published: November 2016

By generating biologically active factors luminal microbiota shape the intestinal micro‐milieu thereby regulating pathological processes such as inflammation and carcinogenesis. Preclinical data suggest that bacterial‐derived butyrate and the signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)‐3 activating cytokine interleukin (IL)‐22 display concordant protective properties at the inflamed colonic epithelium. Herein, biochemical cooperation between the short‐chain fatty acid butyrate and IL‐22 was investigated by focusing on human Caco2 colon epithelial/carcinoma cells. We report that physiological levels of butyrate enhance IL‐22 signaling thereby enforcing expression of the prototypic STAT3‐downstrean target genes α1‐antichymotrypsin and suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS)‐3. A dual mode of butyrate action on the IL‐22/STAT3 axis was identified. Butyrate acted by upregulating IL‐22R1, the decisive chain of the heterodimeric IL‐22 receptor, and, independent from that, has the potential to directly amplify STAT3‐mediated gene activation as detected by chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis of STAT3 binding to the SOCS3 promoter. Since trichostatin A acted similarly, inhibition of histone deacetylases is likely at the root of these butyrate biological properties. The mutual benefit gained from interactions between the host and commensal intestinal bacteria‐derived factors is an expanding field of research beginning to affect clinical practice. Data presented herein propose a supportive and fine‐tuning role for butyrate in IL‐22 signaling that might be therapeutically exploited by local butyrate administration or by increasing its bacterial production in the context of a fiber‐rich diet. © 2016 BioFactors, 43(2):283–292, 2017
RETRACTED: Inhibition of the SphK1/S1P signaling pathway by melatonin in mice with liver fibrosis and human hepatic stellate cells
Authors: González‐Fernández Bárbara , Sánchez Diana I. , Crespo Irene , San‐Miguel Beatriz , Álvarez Marcelino , Tuñón María J. , González‐Gallego Javier
Published: November 2016

The sphingosine kinase 1/sphingosine 1‐phosphate (SphK1/S1P) system is involved in different pathological processes, including fibrogenesis. Melatonin abrogates activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and attenuates different profibrogenic pathways in animal models of fibrosis, but it is unknown if protection associates with its inhibitory effect on the SphK1/S1P axis. Mice in treatment groups received carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) 5 μL g−1 body wt i.p. twice a week for 4 or 6 weeks. Melatonin was given at 5 or 10 mg kg−1 day−1 i.p, beginning 2 weeks after the start of CCl4 administration. At both 4 and 6 weeks following CCl4 treatment, liver mRNA levels, protein concentration and immunohistochemical labelling for SphK1 increased significantly. S1P production, and expression of S1P receptor (S1PR)1, S1PR3 and acid sphingomyelinase (ASMase) were significantly elevated. However, there was a decreased expression of S1PR2 and S1P lyase (S1PL). Melatonin attenuated liver fibrosis, as shown by a significant inhibition of the expression of α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA), transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β and collagen (Col) Ι. Furthermore, melatonin inhibited S1P production, lowered expression of SphK1, S1PR1, SP1R3, and ASMase, and increased expression of S1PL. Melatonin induced a reversal of activated human HSCs cell line LX2, as evidenced by a reduction in α‐SMA, TGF‐β, and Col I expression. Melatonin‐treated cells also exhibited an inhibition of the SphK1/S1P axis. Antifibrogenic effect of SphK1 inhibition was confirmed by treatment of LX2 cells with PF543. Abrogation of the lipid signaling pathway by the indole reveals novel molecular pathways that may account for the protective effect of melatonin in liver fibrogenesis. © 2016 BioFactors, 43(2):272–282, 2017
Mutual benefit for foreign medical students and Chinese postgraduates: A mixed team‐based learning method overcomes communication problems in hematology clerkship
Authors: Chen Xianling , Chen Buyuan , Li Xiaofan , Song Qingxiao , Chen Yuanzhong
Published: November 2016

Hematology is difficult for students to learn. A beneficial education method for hematology clerkship training is required to help students develop clinical skills. Foreign medical students often encounter communication issues in China. To address this issue, Chinese post‐graduates from our institute are willing to assist with educating foreign students. Therefore, we propose a mixed team‐based learning method (MTBL) which might overcome communication problems in hematology clerkship. Twenty‐two foreign medical Students attended a 2‐week hematology clerkship in Fujian Medical University Union Hospital. Twenty‐one foreign African medical students were assigned randomly into two groups. Fourteen foreign African medical students were assigned to MTBL group. Each MTBL team included two foreign African medical students and one Chinese post‐graduate. Seven foreign African medical students were assigned to lecture‐based learning method (LBL) group, which had a foreign medical classmate from Hong Kong or Chinese intern volunteers to serve as translators. The practice test scores of MTBL were significantly higher than LBL group (p < 0.05). The MTBL group had increased motivation to prepare before class, an engaged classroom atmosphere, and an improvement in their understanding of difficult topics. Interestingly, the Chinese post‐graduates also benefited from this setting, as they found that this interaction improved their communication in the English language. The mixed team‐based learning method overcomes communication problems in hematology clerkship. Foreign medical students and Chinese post‐graduates alike can benefit from MTBL. © 2016 by The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 45(2):93–96, 2017.
Development of the Anatomical Quality Assurance (AQUA) Checklist: Guidelines for reporting original anatomical studies
Authors: Tomaszewski Krzysztof A. , Henry Brandon Michael , Kumar Ramakrishnan Piravin , Roy Joyeeta , Vikse Jens , Loukas Marios , Tubbs R. Shane , Walocha Jerzy A.
Published: November 2016

The rise of evidence‐based anatomy has emphasized the need for original anatomical studies with high clarity, transparency, and comprehensiveness in reporting. Currently, inconsistencies in the quality and reporting of such studies have placed limits on accurate reliability and impact assessment. Our aim was to develop a checklist of reporting items that should be addressed by authors of original anatomical studies. The study steering committee formulated a preliminary conceptual design and began to generate items on the basis of a literature review and expert opinion. This led to the development of a preliminary checklist. The validity of this checklist was assessed by a Delphi procedure, and feedback from the Delphi panelists, who were experts in the area of anatomical research, was used to improve it. The Delphi procedure involved 12 experts in anatomical research. It comprised two rounds, after which unanimous consensus was reached regarding the items to be included in the checklist. The steering committee agreed to name the checklist AQUA. The preliminary AQUA Checklist consisted of 26 items divided into eight sections. Following round 1, some of the items underwent major revision and three new ones were introduced. The checklist was revised only for minor language inaccuracies after round 2. The final version of the AQUA Checklist consisted of the initial eight sections with a total of 29 items. The steering committee hopes the AQUA Checklist will improve the quality and reporting of anatomical studies. Clin. Anat. 30:14–20, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Influence of Hydrophilicity on the Snβ‐Catalyzed Baeyer–Villiger Oxidation of Cyclohexanone with Aqueous Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Conrad Sabrina , Wolf Patrick , Müller Philipp , Orsted Hailey , Hermans Ive
Published: November 2016

Snβ zeolites are amongst the most effective heterogeneous catalysts for the Baeyer–Villiger (BV) oxidation of ketones with aqueous hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The high selectivity is rooted in the activation of the carbonyl substrate through interaction with the isolated SnIV sites. However, these sites are also accessible to other molecules in the reaction mixture (in particular the co‐solvent and product). In this contribution, we report the impact of competitive adsorption on the Snβ‐catalyzed BV oxidation of cyclohexanone with aqueous H2O2. We furthermore prepared a series of Snβ zeolites with varying amounts of framework silanols and quantified their hydrophilicities with water adsorption and IR experiments. By correlating the results with catalytic data, we show that Snβ zeolites with an intermediate hydrophilicity achieve the highest activity. Our adaptable post‐synthetic synthesis allows us to tune the material synthesis, resulting in enhanced activity compared with conventional hydrothermal Snβ.
Nickel‐Catalyzed N‐Arylation of Primary Amides and Lactams with Activated (Hetero)aryl Electrophiles
Authors: Lavoie Christopher M. , MacQueen Preston M. , Stradiotto Mark
Published: November 2016

The first nickel‐catalyzed N‐arylation of amides with (hetero)aryl (pseudo)halides is reported, enabled by use of the air‐stable pre‐catalyst (PAd‐DalPhos)Ni(o‐tolyl)Cl (C1). A range of structurally diverse primary amides and lactams were cross‐coupled successfully with activated (hetero)aryl chloride, bromide, triflate, tosylate, mesylate, and sulfamate electrophiles.
Mass Spectrometry‐Based Bottom‐Up Proteomics: Sample Preparation, LC‐MS/MS Analysis, and Database Query Strategies
Authors: Wither Matthew J. , Hansen Kirk C. , Reisz Julie A.
Published: November 2016

Recent technological advances in mass spectrometry (MS) have made possible the investigation and quantification of complex mixtures of biomolecules. The exceptional sensitivity and resolving power of today's mass spectrometers allow for the detection of proteins and peptides at low femtomole quantities; however, these attributes demand high sample purity to minimize artifacts and achieve the highest degree of biomolecule identification. Tissue preparation for proteomic studies is particularly challenging due to their heterogeneity in cell type, presence of insoluble biomaterials, and wide diversity of biomolecules. The workflow described herein details sample preparation from tissues through protein extraction, proteolysis, and purification to generate peptides for MS analysis. Increased peptide resolution and a corresponding increase in protein identification is accomplished using polarity‐based fractionation (C18 resin) at the peptide level. Additionally, approaches to instrument set up, including the use of nanoscale liquid chromatography and quadrupole Orbitrap MS, along with database searching, are described. © 2016 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Comparative Protein Structure Modeling Using MODELLER
Authors: Webb Benjamin , Sali Andrej
Published: November 2016

Comparative protein structure modeling predicts the three‐dimensional structure of a given protein sequence (target) based primarily on its alignment to one or more proteins of known structure (templates). The prediction process consists of fold assignment, target‐template alignment, model building, and model evaluation. This unit describes how to calculate comparative models using the program MODELLER and how to use the ModBase database of such models, and discusses all four steps of comparative modeling, frequently observed errors, and some applications. Modeling lactate dehydrogenase from Trichomonas vaginalis (TvLDH) is described as an example. The download and installation of the MODELLER software is also described. © 2016 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Basic Techniques in Mammalian Cell Tissue Culture
Authors: Phelan Katy , May Kristin M.
Published: November 2016

Cultured mammalian cells are used extensively in cell biology studies. It requires a number of special skills in order to be able to preserve the structure, function, behavior, and biology of the cells in culture. This unit describes the basic skills required to maintain and preserve cell cultures: maintaining aseptic technique, preparing media with the appropriate characteristics, passaging, freezing and storage, recovering frozen stocks, and counting viable cells. © 2016 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Development of a Hybrid Simulator for Power System Analysis for a High Penetration of Distributed Generations
Authors: KITAGAWA RYOUHEI , TAKAGI TERUO , YOKOI KOICHI , SHIMOMURA KIMIHIKO , HARADA ATSUSHI , TAKANO SACHIO , SUZUKI MOTOJI , KOJIMA TAKEHIKO , SHIMADA SEIICHIROU , HANZAKI YOSHISHIGE
Published: November 2016

Chubu Electric Power Co., Ltd.’s hybrid power system simulator consists of analog models and hybrid models. The power system facilities are downsized as an analog model, while the synchronous generators and the loads are modeled as an actual current source model through the amplifier and the digital model. In recent years, there is a growing interest in analyzing power system dynamic phenomena caused by a high penetration of distributed generations. Therefore, the multifunctional generator model that can simulate distributed generation has been developed.
Performance Evaluation of Lithium‐Ion Batteries on Small Electric Bus
Authors: HORITA TSUYOSHI , SHIMAZAKI JUNPEI
Published: November 2016

We evaluate performance of lithium‐ion batteries on the small electric bus, conducting tests of cell and battery pack using discharge/charge machine. We suggest the test item on distinction between good and bad of a battery. In the discharge/charge cycle tests of cell at environmental temperature (25 °C), the relative capacity was 60% at 10,000 cycles. In the discharge capacity test of battery packs on the small electric bus, the relative capacity maintained more than 90% in progress for approximately 900 days. Finally, based on these results, we analyzed about influence factor on a battery discharge capacity.
A Verification of Estimation Accuracy of Lightning Current Waveform and Charge Transfer from Measured E‐Field Waveform
Authors: KURIHARA SATOSHI , NAKATA HIDEHIRO , HASHIMOTO YOSUKE , MICHISHITA KOJI
Published: November 2016

To establish effective countermeasures on power facilities against lightning damage, it is necessary to clarify the lightning characteristics such as current parameters at the area of interest. In order to collect lightning current parameters effectively, the authors have observed electric and magnetic field waveforms simultaneously at south Kyushu, where the lightning flash density in summer is high. Based on observed electric field waveforms, the lightning current parameters have been estimated by adopting the Diendorfer–Uman model (DU model) as the return‐stroke model. In this paper, the accuracy of the estimated return‐stroke current waveform is verified by comparison with directly measured return‐stroke current waveform, along with the accuracy of the estimated charge transfer from the electric field waveform measured with a slow antenna.
Protein‐based nanoformulations for α‐tocopherol encapsulation
Authors: Ghaheh Fatemeh Shahmoradi , Khoddami Akbar , Alihosseini Farzaneh , Gomes Andreia , Ribeiro Artur , Cavaco‐Paulo Artur , Silva Carla
Published: November 2016

Nanoparticles of BSA and silk fibroin (SF) with entrapped α‐tocopherol were produced via ultrasonic emulsification. Populations with particle size of 200–300 nm and highly negatively charged were obtained for all the tested formulations. Entrapment efficiencies of around 99% revealed the effective encapsulation of α‐tocopherol into the produced nanoformulations. Generally, these nanodevices did not induce significant cytotoxicity to human skin keratinocytes for all the concentrations tested. The developed formulations showed free radical scavenging of ABTS.+ ability resulting from the synergistic effect between the proteins in formulation and the entrapped tocopherol. Overall, the results contribute for the establishment of BSA:VO and BSA:SF:VO as biodegradable and non‐toxic nanoformulations for the functionalization of textile devices and controlled delivery of tocopherol into the skin.
Mutations in apoptotic genes and micronucleus occurrence in vinyl chloride‐exposed workers in China
Authors: Feng Nannan , Zheng Guoqiao , Hao Yanhui , Li Yong , Xu Yandan , Xu Xiaowen , Zhang Guanghui , Wang Jinwei , Li Yongliang , Brandt‐Rauf Paul , Xia Zhao‐lin
Published: November 2016

Background: Vinyl chloride is an occupational carcinogen which caused micronuclei in human directly. It has recently been demonstrated that micronuclei formation could generate a spectrum of genomic rearrangements and play a key role in the early tumorigenesis process. We aimed to investigate the association between polymorphisms in the apoptosis process related genes and micronuclei rate in vinyl chloride‐exposed workers in China. Materials and methods: Cytokinesis block micronucleus test was performed on 342 vinyl chloride‐exposed workers and 107 nonexposed workers to determine chromosomal damage. The polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism technique were used to detect nine Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in the apoptosis process related genes. Results: There was a highly significant dose‐response relationship between vinyl chloride exposure and chromosomal damage. Individuals carrying the variant heterozygote MDM2 −309T > G (rs2279744) and variant homozygote BCL2 −938C > A (rs2279115) were at higher risk for chromosomal damage compared with their wild‐type genotype, respectively. Although individuals possessing the variant genotype of BAX −248G > A (rs4645878) had decreased risk compared with the corresponding wild type, this did not reach statistical significant. Conclusion: Genetic polymorphisms in genes related to apoptosis process may have an impact on chromosomal damage induced by vinyl chloride. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 58:39–45, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Human T lymphocytes bioactivate heterocyclic aromatic amines by forming DNA adducts
Authors: Bellamri Medjda , Le Hegarat Ludovic , Vernhet Laurent , Baffet Georges , Turesky Robert J. , Langouët Sophie
Published: November 2016

Heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAA) are formed in cooked meat, poultry and fish but also arise in tobacco smoke and exhaust gases. HAA are potential human carcinogens, which require metabolic activation to exert their genotoxicity. Human tissues can bioactivate HAA to produce reactive intermediates that bind to DNA. HAA DNA adduct formation occurs in human hepatocytes; however, the potential of HAA to form DNA adducts has not been investigated in human T lymphocytes. In this study, we investigated the ability of human T lymphocytes activated with PMA/Ionomycin or CD3/CD28 to express functional CYP1 activity and bioactivate three major HAA: 2‐amino‐1‐methyl‐6‐phenylimidazo[4,5‐b]pyridine (PhIP), 2‐amino‐3,8‐dimethylimidazo[4,5‐f]quinoxaline (MeIQx), and 2‐amino‐9H‐pyrido[2,3‐b]indole (AαC) to form DNA adducts. Adducts were measured by ultraperformance liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization/multistage scan mass spectrometry. The highest level of DNA adducts occurred for AαC (16 adducts per 109 nucleotides), followed by PhIP (9 adducts per 109 nucleotides). In contrast, DNA adducts formed from MeIQx and the structurally related aromatic amine 4‐aminobiphenyl, a known human carcinogen, were below the limit of detection (< 3 adducts per 109 nucleotides). Moreover, we demonstrate that AαC is a potent inducer of CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 activity through a transcriptional mechanism involving the AhR pathway. Overall, our results highlight the capacity of activated human T lymphocytes to more efficiently bioactivate AαC to form DNA adducts than other prominent HAA or 4‐ABP. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 57:656–667, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Conservation decision making: integrating the precautionary principle with uncertainty
Authors: Falcy Matthew R
Published: November 2016

The precautionary principle suggests that more conservative actions are prudent when levels of uncertainty are high. Decision makers often rely on intuition rather than specific methods to implement the precautionary principle. I demonstrate how Bayesian data analysis produces uncertainty metrics that can be easily blended with a mathematically explicit rendition of the precautionary principle. This results in decisions that are transparent, replicable, and exact. Societal values will often determine appropriate levels of precaution, so methods that elicit input from public stakeholders are needed.
Aberrant cytokine secretion and zinc uptake in chronic cadmium‐exposed lung epithelial cells
Authors: Xu Yan‐Ming , Gao Yang‐Min , Wu Dan‐Dan , Yu Fei‐Yuan , Zang Zhong‐Sheng , Yang Lei , Yao Yue , Cai Na‐Li , Zhou Yuan , Chiu Jen‐Fu , Ching Yick‐Pang , Lau Andy T. Y.
Published: November 2016

Purpose

Our previous results showed that cadmium (Cd)‐adapted lung epithelial cells (LECs) developed resistance to apoptosis due to non‐responsiveness of the c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase pathway and augmented expression of cytokeratin 8. Since cellular Cd entry is a prerequisite in order for Cd to elicit its cytotoxicity, therefore, we wonder if there are differential metal ion transport ability and also other phenotypic changes that occurred in these Cd‐resistant LECs.

Experimental design and results

Here, we explored further and found that the zinc (Zn) importer Zip8 was stably abolished in these cells along with a marked decrease of Cd and Zn accumulation. Moreover, by cell migration assays and cytokine antibody array analysis, we found that Cd‐adapted cells exhibit enhanced migratory ability possibly due to elevated secretions of vascular endothelial growth factor and macrophage inflammatory protein‐3 alpha (MIP‐3α).

Conclusion and clinical relevance

Taken together, our results show that during chronic Cd exposure, lung cells antagonize excessive cellular Cd‐influx by abolishing Zip8 expression to reduce Cd‐toxicity; however, this also renders cells with a diminished Zn uptake. The imbalance of Zn homeostasis and elevation of angiogenic and epithelial–mesenchymal transition‐promoting cytokines in Cd‐adapted cells might thus likely promote Zn deficiency, angiogenesis, and cell invasion.
Exposure to tobacco smoke in utero or during early childhood and risk of hypomania: Prospective birth cohort study
Authors: Mackay D.F. , Anderson J.J. , Pell J.P. , Zammit S. , Smith D.J.
Published: November 2016

Objectives

Using data from a prospective birth cohort, we aimed to test for an association between exposure to tobacco smoke in utero or during early development and the experience of hypomania assessed in young adulthood.

Methods

We used data on 2957 participants from a large birth cohort (Avon longitudinal study of parents and children [ALSPAC]). The primary outcome of interest was hypomania, and the secondary outcome was “hypomania plus previous psychotic experiences (PE)”. Maternally-reported smoking during pregnancy, paternal smoking and exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) in childhood were the exposures of interest. Multivariable logistic regression was used and estimates of association were adjusted for socio-economic, lifestyle and obstetric factors.

Results

There was weak evidence of an association between exposure to maternal smoking in utero and lifetime hypomania. However, there was a strong association of maternal smoking during pregnancy within the sub-group of individuals with hypomania who had also experienced psychotic symptoms (OR = 3.45; 95% CI: 1.49–7.98;P= 0.004). There was no association between paternal smoking, or exposure to ETS during childhood, and hypomania outcomes.

Conclusions

Exposure to smoking in utero may be a risk factor for more severe forms of psychopathology on the mood-psychosis spectrum, rather than DSM-defined bipolar disorder.
Cognitive behavioral therapy for compulsive buying behavior: Predictors of treatment outcome
Authors: Granero R. , Fernández-Aranda F. , Mestre-Bach G. , Steward T. , Baño M. , Agüera Z. , Mallorquí-Bagué N. , Aymamí N. , Gómez-Peña M. , Sancho M. , Sánchez I. , Menchón J.M. , Martín-Romera V. , Jiménez-Murcia S.
Published: November 2016

Background

Compulsive buying behavior (CBB) is receiving increasing consideration in both consumer and psychiatric-epidemiological research, yet empirical evidence on treatment interventions is scarce and mostly from small homogeneous clinical samples.

Objectives

To estimate the short-term effectiveness of a standardized, individual cognitive behavioral therapy intervention (CBT) in a sample of n = 97 treatment-seeking patients diagnosed with CBB, and to identify the most relevant predictors of therapy outcome.

Method

The intervention consisted of 12 individual CBT weekly sessions, lasting approximately 45 minutes each. Data on patients’ personality traits, psychopathology, sociodemographic factors, and compulsive buying behavior were used in our analysis.

Results

The risk (cumulative incidence) of poor adherence to the CBT program was 27.8%. The presence of relapses during the CBT program was 47.4% and the dropout rate was 46.4%. Significant predictors of poor therapy adherence were being male, high levels of depression and obsessive-compulsive symptoms, low anxiety levels, high persistence, high harm avoidance and low self-transcendence.

Conclusion

Cognitive behavioral models show promise in treating CBB, however future interventions for CBB should be designed via a multidimensional approach in which patients’ sex, comorbid symptom levels and the personality-trait profiles play a central role.
Unilateral EEG sweat artifacts in a patient of brainstem hemorrhage with central Horner's syndrome
Authors: Singh Pankaj , Bansal A.
Published: November 2016

We present an interesting EEG finding of persistent unilateral sweat artifacts in a 47 years old male patient with right hemiplegia secondary to left thalamic bleed with extension of hemorrhage into the left internal capsule, the left midbrain and ventricles. The EEG was done for altered sensorium. It showed unilateral (right sided) sweat artifacts throughout the EEG recording. The anhydrosis on left side of the face was due to left sided Horner's syndrome because of involvement of first order neurons in the left midbrain. This EEG finding is highlighted because of it being relatively less common but interesting finding.
Functional and Environmental Factors Are Associated With Sustained Participation in Adaptive Sports
Authors: Blauwet Cheri A. , Yang Heidi Y. , Cruz Sebastian A. , Collins Jamie E. , Smith Karen C. , Losina Elena , Katz Jeff N.
Published: November 2016

Background

Although community‐based adaptive sports have become a popular means of rehabilitation for individuals with disabilities, little is known regarding the factors that lead to sustained participation.

Objective

To determine the demographic, environmental, disability‐related, and functional factors associated with sustained participation in a community‐based adaptive sports program.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Community‐based adaptive sports program.

Participants

Adults with mobility‐related disabilities.

Methods

Data were collected from registration forms and participation logs. Participants were described as “sustainers” if they attended ≥2 sessions, or as “nonsustainers” if they attended 0 or 1 session. We examined the associations between sustained participation and demographic, environmental, disability‐related, and functional factors in bivariate and multivariable analyses.

Main Outcome Measurement

Sustained participation in the adaptive sports program.

Results

Of the 134 participants, 78 (58%) were sustainers and 56 (42%) were nonsustainers. In multivariable analyses, participants who ambulated independently had lower odds of being sustainers (odds ratio [OR] = 0.33, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.11, 0.96), and those who used an ambulatory assistive device had twice the odds of being sustainers (OR = 2.0, 95% CI = 0.65, 6.2) compared to those who used a manual wheelchair. Moreover, participants who lived within 5.3 miles of the program site (OR = 3.8, 95% CI = 1.1, 13.0) and those who lived between 5.3 and 24.4 miles from the program site (OR = 2.8, 95% CI = 1.0, 7.7) had significantly higher odds of sustained participation than those who lived more than 24.4 miles from the program site.

Conclusion

Sustained participation in community‐based adaptive sports is associated with living closer to the program site and the presence of a moderate level of functional impairment. These findings suggest that programs might consider increasing the number of satellite sites and expanding offerings for individuals with mild or more significant mobility‐related disabilities to effectively increase program participation.

Level of Evidence

II
Metabolic and physiological interdependencies in the Bathymodiolus azoricus symbiosis
Authors: Ponnudurai Ruby , Kleiner Manuel , Sayavedra Lizbeth , Petersen Jillian M , Moche Martin , Otto Andreas , Becher Dörte , Takeuchi Takeshi , Satoh Noriyuki , Dubilier Nicole , Schweder Thomas , Markert Stephanie
Published: November 2016

The hydrothermal vent mussel Bathymodiolus azoricus lives in an intimate symbiosis with two types of chemosynthetic Gammaproteobacteria in its gills: a sulfur oxidizer and a methane oxidizer. Despite numerous investigations over the last decades, the degree of interdependence between the three symbiotic partners, their individual metabolic contributions, as well as the mechanism of carbon transfer from the symbionts to the host are poorly understood. We used a combination of proteomics and genomics to investigate the physiology and metabolism of the individual symbiotic partners. Our study revealed that key metabolic functions are most likely accomplished jointly by B. azoricus and its symbionts: (1) CO2 is pre-concentrated by the host for carbon fixation by the sulfur-oxidizing symbiont, and (2) the host replenishes essential biosynthetic TCA cycle intermediates for the sulfur-oxidizing symbiont. In return (3), the sulfur oxidizer may compensate for the host’s putative deficiency in amino acid and cofactor biosynthesis. We also identified numerous ‘symbiosis-specific’ host proteins by comparing symbiont-containing and symbiont-free host tissues and symbiont fractions. These proteins included a large complement of host digestive enzymes in the gill that are likely involved in symbiont digestion and carbon transfer from the symbionts to the host.
Social support reduces stress hormone levels in wild chimpanzees across stressful events and everyday affiliations
Authors: Wittig Roman M. , Crockford Catherine , Weltring Anja , Langergraber Kevin E. , Deschner Tobias , Zuberbühler Klaus
Published: November 2016

Stress is a major cause of poor health and mortality in humans and other social mammals. Close social bonds buffer stress, however much of the underlying physiological mechanism remains unknown. Here, we test two key hypotheses: bond partner effects occur only during stress (social buffering) or generally throughout daily life (main effects). We assess urinary glucocorticoids (uGC) in wild chimpanzees, with or without their bond partners, after a natural stressor, resting or everyday affiliation. Chimpanzees in the presence of, or interacting with, bond partners rather than others have lowered uGC levels across all three contexts. These results support the main effects hypothesis and indicate that hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis regulation is mediated by daily engagement with bond partners both within and out of stressful contexts. Regular social support with bond partners could lead to better health through daily ‘micro-management’ of the HPA axis, a finding with potential medical implications for humans.
Retraction Note: Capturing carbon dioxide as a polymer from natural gas
Authors: Hwang Chih-Chau , Tour Josiah J. , Kittrell Carter , Espinal Laura , Alemany Lawrence B. , Tour James M.
Published: November 2016

Nature Communications 5: Article number: 3961 (2014); Published: 3 June 2014; Updated: 1 November 2016 In this Article, we reported the synthesis of nucleophilic sulfur- and nitrogen-containing porous carbons and their carbon dioxide uptake performance. Specifically, we described a mechanism where the carbon dioxide polymerized in the channels of the porous support.
Alterations in amygdala–prefrontal circuits in infants exposed to prenatal maternal depression
Authors: Posner J , Cha J , Roy A K , Peterson B S , Bansal R , Gustafsson H C , Raffanello E , Gingrich J , Monk C
Published: November 2016

Prenatal exposure to maternal depression is common and puts offspring at risk for developing a range of neuropsychiatric disorders. Despite its prevalence and adverse associations, neurobiological processes by which prenatal maternal depression (PMD) confers risk remain poorly understood. Maternal mood and fetal behavior were assessed between 34 and 37 gestational weeks. Using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and diffusion MRI, we examined functional and structural connectivity within amygdala–prefrontal circuits in 64 infants (mean age=5.8±1.7 weeks) with (n=20) and without (n=44) in utero exposure to PMD. Resting fMRI and diffusion MRI both indicated atypical amygdala–prefrontal connectivity in PMD-exposed infants: Resting fMRI indicated increased inverse, or negative, functional connectivity between the amygdala and the dorsal prefrontal cortex (PFC), bilaterally, and diffusion MRI indicated decreased structural connectivity between the right amygdala and the right ventral PFC. Spectral dynamic causal modeling supported these findings suggesting altered amygdala–PFC effective (or directed) connectivity in PMD-exposed infants. Last, path analyses supported a mechanistic account relating PMD to a third-trimester fetal behavior: PMD alters amygdala–PFC connectivity, which in turn, is associated with an increase in fetal heart rate reactivity to in utero perturbation. These data suggest that the maturation and coordination of central and peripheral physiology are altered by prenatal exposure to maternal depression. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to directly associate infant MRI measures with a behavior—fetal heart rate response, and supports hypotheses that PMD-associated variations in the development of amygdala–PFC circuits are relevant for future neurobehavioral maturation.
Composition-dependent surface chemistry of colloidal BaxSr1−xTiO3 perovskite nanocrystals
Authors: Margossian Tigran , Culver Sean P. , Larmier Kim , Zhu Feng , Brutchey Richard L. , Copéret Christophe
Published: November 2016

BaxSr1−xTiO3 perovskite nanocrystals, prepared by the vapor diffusion sol–gel method and characterized by state of the art surface techniques, display significantly different O–H stretching frequencies and adsorption properties towards CO2 as a function of the alkaline earth composition (Ba vs. Sr).
Supramolecular influence on cis–trans isomerization probed by ion mobility spectrometry
Authors: Czerwinska Izabella , Kulesza Alexander , Choi Changmin , Chirot Fabien , Simon Anne-Laure , Far Johann , Kune Chistopher , de Pauw Edwin , Dugourd Philippe
Published: November 2016

We used tandem ion mobility spectrometry measurements to investigate how the photo-isomerization of a chromophore (a methylpyridinium derivative) is affected by the complexation with a crown ether.
Observation of the chemical reaction equilibria of element 104, rutherfordium: solid–liquid extraction of Rf, Zr, Hf and Th with Aliquat 336 resin from HCl
Authors: Yokokita Takuya , Kasamatsu Yoshitaka , Kino Aiko , Haba Hiromitsu , Shigekawa Yudai , Yasuda Yuki , Nakamura Kouhei , Toyomura Keigo , Komori Yukiko , Murakami Masashi , Yoshimura Takashi , Takahashi Naruto , Morita Kosuke , Shinohara Atsushi
Published: November 2016

We successfully observed the equilibrium state of the chemical reactions for superheavy element, Rf.
Evaluation of functionalized mesoporous silica SBA-15 as a carrier system for Ph3Sn(CH2)3OH against the A2780 ovarian carcinoma cell line
Authors: Bensing Christian , Mojić Marija , Gómez-Ruiz Santiago , Carralero Sandra , Dojčinović Biljana , Maksimović-Ivanić Danijela , Mijatović Sanja , Kaluđerović Goran N.
Published: November 2016

A mesoporous silica-based material loaded with an organotin compound Ph3Sn(CH2)3OH diminished the metastatic properties of A2780 survived cells.
Retraction: Efficient microwave-promoted acrylonitrile sustainable synthesis from glycerol
Authors: Calvino-Casilda Vanesa , Guerrero-Pérez M. Olga , Bañares Miguel A.
Published: November 2016

Retraction of ‘Efficient microwave-promoted acrylonitrile sustainable synthesis from glycerol’ by Vanesa Calvino-Casilda, M. Olga Guerrero-Pérez and Miguel Bañares, Green Chem., 2009, 11, 939–941.
The emerging picture of CDK9/P-TEFb: more than 20 years of advances since PITALRE
Authors: Paparidis Nikolas Ferreira dos Santos , Durvale Maxwell Castro , Canduri Fernanda
Published: November 2016

CDK9 is a prominent member of the transcriptional CDKs subfamily, a group of kinases whose function is to control the primary steps of mRNA synthesis and processing by eukaryotic RNA polymerase II.
Thermogravimetric investigation on the interaction of formic acid with solder joint materials
Authors: Conti Fosca , Hanss Alexander , Fischer Carolin , Elger Gordon
Published: November 2016

Reaction mechanisms of gaseous formic acid with oxidized Cu and Sn–Ag–Cu alloy (SAC305) are investigated in the temperature range of soldering (40–260 °C).
Recent advances in the tandem reaction of azides with alkynes or alkynols
Authors: Song Xian-Rong , Qiu Yi-Feng , Liu Xue-Yuan , Liang Yong-Min
Published: November 2016

Over the past few decades, the development of versatile methodologies to employ azides as aminating agents for the formation of nitrogen-containing compounds has attracted significant attention in synthetic chemistry.
Synthesis of different types of alkoxy fullerene derivatives from chlorofullerene C60Cl6
Authors: Khakina Ekaterina A. , Kraevaya Ol'ga A. , Popova Maria L. , Peregudov Alexander S. , Troyanov Sergey I. , Chernyak Alexander V. , Martynenko Vyacheslav M. , Kulikov Alexander V. , Schols Dominique , Troshin Pavel A.
Published: November 2016

Synthetic routes for preparation of different types of alkoxy fullerene derivatives starting from chlorofullerene C60Cl6 have been developed. Water-soluble fullerene derivatives bearing five OCH2CH2COOH groups have demonstrated a promising anti-HIV activity.
Periodic introduction of a Hamilton receptor into a polystyrene backbone for a supramolecular graft copolymer with regular intervals
Authors: Lee Sang-Ho , Ouchi Makoto , Kim SangWon , Sawamoto Mitsuo
Published: November 2016

The Hamilton receptor group (–DADDAD–; D = hydrogen donor; A = hydrogen acceptor) was periodically introduced into a polystyrene backbone, starting from the ruthenium-catalyzed living radical polymerization of styrene with the Hamilton receptor-based bifunctional initiator.
Enhanced thermoelectric properties of the Dirac semimetal Cd3As2
Authors: Zhou Tong , Zhang Cheng , Zhang Huisheng , Xiu Faxian , Yang Zhongqin
Published: November 2016

The thermoelectric behavior of the Dirac semimetal Cd3As2can be much improved by electron or hole doping, especially the latter. The optimumZTis found to be about 0.5, much larger than that (0.15) obtained in pristine Cd3As2in experiments.
Emission enhancement and application of synthetic green fluorescent protein chromophore analogs
Authors: Deng Hongping , Zhu Xinyuan
Published: November 2016

Emission enhancement and application of GFPc analogs are achieved via chemical modification or physical encapsulation due to conformational motion inhibition.
Microbial stress response to heavy metals in the environment
Authors: Prabhakaran Pranesha , Ashraf Muhammad Aqeel , Aqma Wan Syaidatul
Published: November 2016

Heavy metal contamination is a global environmental issue as it poses a significant threat to public health, and exposure to metals above a certain threshold level can cause deleterious effects in all living organisms including microbes.
Improved performance of poly(vinyl pyrrolidone)/phosphonated poly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene oxide)/graphitic carbon nitride nanocomposite membranes for high temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells
Authors: Zou Gongwen , Wu Wei , Cong Chuanbo , Meng Xiaoyu , Zhao Kun , Zhou Qiong
Published: November 2016

To achieve desirable performance of a polymer electrolyte membrane with higher proton conduction and better mechanical strength is a challenging work in the development of the phosphoric acid (PA) doped solid-state membrane.
Synthesis of polystyrene-based Y-shaped asymmetric star by the combination of ATRP/RAFT and its thermal and rheological properties
Authors: Tan Haiying , Zhang Guangchun , Lin Yichao , Ma Li , Tang Tao
Published: November 2016

A2A′-type asymmetric stars and A2B-type miktoarm star polymers were prepared by the combination of atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) and reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer polymerization (RAFT) using the designed initiator.
Synthesis of dual functional pyrimidinium ionic liquids as reaction media and antimicrobial agents
Authors: Goel Kamna , Bera Smritilekha , Singh Man , Mondal Dhananjoy
Published: November 2016

This article describes a two-step synthesis of twenty N-alkyl pyrimidinium ionic liquids through N-alkylation of pyrimidine with n-alkyl (C1–C10) halides followed by anion metathesis and their dual applications as reaction media and antibacterial agents.
One-step molten salt carbonization (MSC) of firwood biomass for capacitive carbon
Authors: Lu Beihu , Hu Liangyou , Yin Huayi , Xiao Wei , Wang Dihua
Published: November 2016

Capacitive carbon is prepared via the molten salt carbonization of firwood biomass, and the size of the feedstock does matter.
Immobilizing AgPd alloy on Vulcan XC-72 carbon: a novel catalyst for highly efficient hydrogen generation from formaldehyde aqueous solution
Authors: Gao Shutao , Feng Tao , Wu Qiuhua , Feng Cheng , Shang Ningzhao , Wang Chun
Published: November 2016

A novel bimetallic catalyst, AgPd nanoalloy supported on Vulcan XC-72 carbon (AgPd@C-72), has been successfully fabricated and used for catalyzing H2 generation from formaldehyde aqueous solution at room temperature for the first time.
Bubble generation in liquid rope coiling
Authors: Hosseini Hossein , Farnudi Ali , Khatami Mohammad Hassan , Habibi Mehdi
Published: November 2016

In liquid rope coiling a corkscrew-like structure is formed and air bubbles get trapped inside the body of the fluid.