bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Projections in donor organs available for liver transplantation in the United States: 2014‐2025
Authors: Parikh Neehar D. , Hutton David , Marrero Wesley , Sanghani Kunal , Xu Yongcai , Lavieri Mariel
Published: April 2015

With the aging US population, demographic shifts, and obesity epidemic, there is potential for further exacerbation of the current liver donor shortage. We aimed to project the availability of liver grafts in the United States. We performed a secondary analysis of the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network database of all adult donors from 2000 to 2012 and calculated the total number of donors available and transplanted donor livers stratified by age, race, and body mass index (BMI) group per year. We used National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention historical data to stratify the general population by age, sex, race, and BMI. We then used US population age and race projections provided by the US Census Bureau and the Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service and made national and regional projections of available donors and donor liver utilization from 2014 to 2025. We performed sensitivity analyses and varied the rate of the rise in obesity, proportion of Hispanics, population growth, liver utilization rate, and donation after cardiac death (DCD) utilization. The projected adult population growth in the United States from 2014 to 2025 will be 7.1%. However, we project that there will be a 6.1% increase in the number of used liver grafts. There is marked regional heterogeneity in liver donor growth. Projections were significantly affected by changes in BMI, DCD utilization, and liver utilization rates but not by changes in the Hispanic proportion of the US population or changes in the overall population growth. Overall population growth will outpace the growth of available donor organs and thus potentially exacerbate the existing liver graft shortage. The projected growth in organs is highly heterogeneous across different United Network for Organ Sharing regions. Focused strategies to increase the liver donor pool are warranted. Liver Transpl 21:855‐863, 2015. © 2015 AASLD.
Nitrogen‐Doped Multilayer Graphene as Functional Filler for Carbon/Polyamide 12 Nanocomposites
Authors: Beckert Michaela , Tölle Folke Johannes , Bruchmann Bernd , Mülhaupt Rolf
Published: April 2015

Herein, we report on the facile thermolysis process for producing nitrogen‐doped few‐layer graphene (CN) as a functional filler derived from graphite oxide (GO) and cyanamide (CA). The nitrogen content is governed by the thermolysis temperature and CA content. As compared to conventional thermally reduced GO, the nitrogen doping by GO/CA thermolysis at 800 °C accounts for a substantial increase of electrical filler conductivity from 48 to 467 S · cm−1. According to XPS measurements, pyridinic, pyrrolic, and graphitic nitrogen groups were incorporated into graphene during thermolysis. Graphene/polyamide 12 (PA12) composites containing between 1 and 5 wt% were prepared by melt compounding. At 5 wt% graphene filler content, the Young's modulus was increased by +53% with respect to PA12. Whereas nitrogen doping did not affect mechanical properties of graphene/PA12, it greatly improved the electrical conductivity of both graphene and the corresponding graphene/PA12 nanocomposites. Hence, the nitrogen doping of graphene holds a great promise for improving the performance of functional graphene fillers.
Thermoresponsive Properties of Copolymer Gels Induced by Appropriate Hydrophilic/Hydrophobic Balance of Monomer Combination
Authors: Ida Shohei , Kawahara Toru , Fujita Yuki , Tanimoto Satoshi , Hirokawa Yoshitsugu
Published: April 2015

The novel thermoresponsive polymer gels were found to be designed by copolymerization of hydrophilic and hydrophobic monomers. Thermoresponsive properties of these novel copolymer gels could be easily regulated by the monomer structures and the feed ratio. First, we copolymerized hydrophilic N,N‐dimethylacrylamide (DMAAm) and hydrophobic N‐n‐butylacrylamide (NBAAm) in various feed ratio, and found that certain compositions (DMAAm : NBAAm = 70 : 30 ∼ 40 : 60) gave the thermoresponsive gels with sharp volume phase transition. It was because of appropriate hydrophilic/hydrophobic balance in the network as same as poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) gel, in which the balance of hydrophilic amide group and hydrophobic isopropyl group produces thermoresponsive property. Then, we examined the effect of comonomer structures on thermoresponsive behavior of the copolymer gels by utilizing butyl acrylamide isomers (s‐butyl, i‐butyl, and t‐butyl) as hydrophobic component. As a result, all the gels copolymerized by butylacrylamide having isomeric butyl groups with DMAAm were found to show the thermoresponsive properties such as sharp change of the degree of swelling and collapsed temperature, which would be related to the hydration structure of water.
Ring‐Expansion Living Cationic Polymerization of Vinyl Ethers: Optimized Ring Propagation
Authors: Kammiyada Hajime , Ouchi Makoto , Sawamoto Mitsuo
Published: April 2015

For the “ring‐expansion” living cationic polymerization of vinyl ethers that has recently been achieved for the first time with a hemiacetal ester‐embedded cyclic initiator (1), we investigated the effects of reaction conditions (Lewis acid catalysts/activators, solvents, temperature, and reagent concentration) on the selectivity and controllability for construction of ring chains. For example, the choice of the Lewis acid catalysts turned out crucial. Specifically, tin tetrabrommide (SnBr4) was suitable, with which an undisturbed ring‐expansion propagation proceeded without irreversible side reactions, to selectively construct the ring topology, though accompanied by “ring fusion” into fused ring polymers of higher molelcular weights. The fusion event, however, could be suppressed by decreasing concentration of the initiator, namely, polymers to be formed therefrom. Under these optimized conditions, the propagation is controlled enough to allow sequential addition of monomers to give either chain‐extended homopolymers or block copolymers. Thus, the ring‐expansion cationic polymerization is potentially a powerful tool to construct ring polymer architectures with precision control similar to that for linear living polymers.
Temperature Dependence of Structural Properties and Chain Configurational Study: A Molecular Dynamics Simulation of Polyethylene Chains
Authors: Lu Haifeng , Zhou Zhiping , Hao Tongfan , Ye Xubo , Ne Yijing
Published: April 2015

Micro‐structural evolution of polyethylene (PE) across the glass transition temperature (Tg) is investigated by full atom molecular dynamic (MD) simulation. The specific volume as a function of temperature for PE is obtained, through which the volumetric glass transition temperature was determined. The dihedral distribution of the overall bonds of the amorphous polyethylene chain system keeps consistent with the rotational isomeric state scheme. The dependence of isomer probability of skeletal bonds and average radius of gyration on temperature also can be used to estimate the glass temperature. The micro‐structural information obtained from MD simulation should be helpful to understand glass transition mechanism of polymer system.
Genetic variability of the retromer cargo recognition complex in parkinsonism
Authors: Gustavsson Emil K. , Guella Ilaria , Trinh Joanne , Szu‐Tu Chelsea , Rajput Alex , Rajput Ali H. , Steele John C. , McKeown Martin , Jeon Beom S. , Aasly Jan O. , Farrer Matthew J.
Published: April 2015

Background

A pathogenic mutation (VPS35 p.D620N) within the retromer complex has been shown to segregate with late‐onset Parkinson's disease (PD). Several studies have subsequently detected the mutation in patients with PD and not in controls.

Methods

Mutation screening of the coding regions of the retromer cargo recognition complex genes (VPS26A/B, VPS29, and VPS35) was carried out in patients with PD (n = 396), atypical parkinsonism (n = 229), and in 368 controls.

Results

Overall, we identified five rare nonsynonymous mutations in VPS26A and one in VPS35; none were observed in VPS26B or VPS29. Three VPS26A variants (p.K93E, p.M112V, and p.K297X), identified in patients with atypical parkinsonism, were not observed in controls from this study (n = 368) or from publically available data sets (n = 4,426).

Conclusion

Our results support the hypothesis that rare variants in the retromer complex genes may be involved in the development of parkinsonism, although further studies are warranted before any solid conclusions can be drawn. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Experiences with the flow‐through radial forearm flap as a bridge in lower extremity reconstruction
Authors: Ozkan Omer , Ozkan Ozlenen , Bektas Gamze , Cinpolat Ani
Published: April 2015

Various techniques have been proposed in order to overcome recipient vessel problems in microsurgery. In cases with no suitable recipient vessels close to the defect, the flow‐through flap is a valuable and reliable alternative for accessing healthy recipient vessels in a single stage. We describe our experiences with combined flaps and discuss the advantages of the flow‐through radial forearm flap as a bridge. Between 2003 and 2009, eight combined flaps were used to reconstruct soft‐tissue defects of lower extremities. Seven patients had acute or subacute wound with exposed bone and vascular injury caused by trauma, one had a chronic nonhealing wound. The flow‐through radial forearm flap was used as a bridge flap with combined a cover flap in all cases. Radial forearm flaps provided recipient vessel lengthening. In one patient, the distal ALT flap failed and replaced with latissimus dorsi flap. Other postoperative courses were uneventful and all of flaps survived. In one patient although the flaps were healthy, sepsis developed and the extremity was amputated. Recovery and ambulation were achieved in the remaining patients. Combined flaps with the flow‐through radial forearm flap are an appropriate technique for overcoming recipient vessel problems. Although the technique involves a more complicated procedure and increases the number of microvascular anastomoses, it is a valuable, safe and comfortable alternative in selected cases. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 36:128–133, 2016.
Comparisons of the results of peripheral nerve defect repair with fibrin conduit and autologous nerve graft: An experimental study in rats
Authors: Longo Marco Vinicius Losso , Marques de Faria José Carlos , Isaac Cesar , Nepomuceno Andre Coelho , Teixeira Nuberto Hopfgartner , Gemperli Rolf
Published: April 2015

Introduction

The standard treatment for nerve defects is nerve autograft. There is no conduit available that provides the same regenerative capacity of nerve autograft. This study evaluated the histological and functional recovery of nerve defects treated with fibrin conduit in comparison to the nerve autograft, in a rat model.

Method

A sciatic nerve injury model (10‐mm defect) was performed in 20 Wistar rats, nerve defect was reconstructed using a fibrin conduit (n = 10). A nerve autograft was used as control (n = 10). The walking behavior was measured by footprint analysis at 4, 8, and 12 weeks and sciatic function index was determined. After 12 weeks, histological analysis was performed to evaluate the regenerated nerve and measured axonal density. The triceps surae muscle weight was also evaluated.

Results

The fibrin conduit group showed less improvement in walking behavior compared to nerve autograft (−53 ± 2 vs. −36 ± 2; P < 0.001 at 12 weeks). The fibrin conduit group presented axonal density of 40.0 axons/10.995μm2 and the nerve autograft group had 67.2 axons/10.995μm2 (P < 0.001). The triceps surae muscle weight ratio of the fibrin conduit group was 41 ± 3% versus 71 ± 4% of the nerve autograft group (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The fibrin conduit could be used for nerve reconstruction following peripheral nerve injury in the rat model. However, the functional recovery in the fibrin conduit repair group was worse than that in nerve autograft group and the nerve repair with the fibrin conduit has less myelinated fibers when compared to the repair with nerve autograft. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 36:59–65, 2016.
An electrodiagnostic technique for assessing palmar proper digital nerves of the hand: Normative data and clinical application
Authors: Zanette Giampietro , Lauriola Matteo Francesco , Tamburin Stefano
Published: April 2015

Introduction: There is no standard electrodiagnostic technique for palmar proper digital nerves (PaPDNs). In this study we investigated sensory nerve action potentials (SNAPs) to PaPDN stimulation in normal subjects and patients. Methods: SNAPs of PaPDNs were recorded in response to selective antidromic stimulation at the web space and mixed nerve stimulation at the wrist in 14 controls. The selectivity of PaPDN stimulation and the effect of recording electrode position on SNAP amplitude were studied. The technique was tested in 2 patients with PaPDN lesions. Results: The technique yielded selective PaPDN stimulation at the web space. SNAP amplitude to PaPDN stimulation was influenced by age and was larger than SNAP amplitude to wrist stimulation. The recording electrode positions influenced SNAP amplitude. In patients, we documented PaPDN lesions, which were confirmed at surgery, whereas conventional wrist mixed nerve stimulation yielded negative findings. Conclusions: Selective PaPDN stimulation at the web space is feasible and may be helpful for electrodiagnosis of PaPDN lesions. Muscle Nerve 52: 972–980, 2015
High sensitivity sensing of nitroaromatic explosive vapors based on polytriphenylamines with AIE‐active tetraphenylethylene side groups
Authors: Dong Wenyue , Pan Yuyu , Fritsch Martin , Scherf Ullrich
Published: April 2015

Two polytriphenylamines (PTPAs) (P1 and P2) with aggregation induced emission (AIE)‐active tetraphenylethylene side groups have been designed and successfully synthesized. Both polymers only faintly emit in dilute solution but show strong emission in aggregated state, meaning that they are AIE‐active. The detection of 1,3,5‐trinitrobenzene (TNB) vapors has been investigated by photoluminescence (PL) quenching in polymer films. High solid state quantum yields and donor‐acceptor interactions of the electron‐rich PTPA chains with the TNB analyte, hereby, induce a high sensing sensitivity, both for P1 and P2 films towards TNB vapor. Contacting thin P1 and P2 films with saturated TNB vapor, the PL intensity was quenched by 85% for P1 and 89% for P2 within 600 s, respectively. The sensing process is reversible, >90% of the PL is recovered, also after repeated cycling. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2014, 53, 1753–1761
Fabrication of asymmetrically superhydrophobic cotton fabrics via mist copolymerization of 2,2,2‐trifluoroethyl methacrylate
Authors: Xi GuangHui , Fan WanChao , Wang Lu , Liu XiangDong , Endo Takeshi
Published: April 2015

We report here a simple strategy for fabricating asymmetrically superhydrophobic cotton fabric via a mist copolymerization of three monomers, 2,2,2‐trifluoroethyl methacrylate (TFMA), 2‐isocyanatoethyl methacrylate (IEM), and divinylbenzene (DVB). The copolymer layer on the cotton surface was confirmed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis and attenuated total reflection (ATR) accessory, and the nanoscale hierarchical structures in the polymeric layer were demonstrated by observation of field emission scanning electron microscope (FE‐SEM). Surface characterization reveals that the modified surface is superhydrophobic, but the opposite side of the modified cotton fabric has the hydrophilic nature of cotton. More experimental data suggest that the good water adsorptivity and vapor transmissibility of the original cotton fabric were inherited after the surface modification. These properties are of great significance in textile and medical applications. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2015, 53, 1862–1871
Crystal structure of a novel two domain GH78 family α‐rhamnosidase from Klebsiella oxytoca with rhamnose bound
Authors: O'Neill Ellis C. , Stevenson Clare E. M. , Paterson Michael J. , Rejzek Martin , Chauvin Anne‐Laure , Lawson David M. , Field Robert A.
Published: April 2015

The crystal structure of the GH78 family α‐rhamnosidase from Klebsiella oxytoca (KoRha) has been determined at 2.7 Å resolution with rhamnose bound in the active site of the catalytic domain. Curiously, the putative catalytic acid, Asp 222, is preceded by an unusual non‐proline cis‐peptide bond which helps to project the carboxyl group into the active centre. This KoRha homodimeric structure is significantly smaller than those of the other previously determined GH78 structures. Nevertheless, the enzyme displays α‐rhamnosidase activity when assayed in vitro, suggesting that the additional structural domains found in the related enzymes are dispensible for function. Proteins 2015; 83:1742–1749. © 2015 The Authors. Proteins: Structure, Function, and Bioinformatics Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Preoperative Imaging Features are Associated with Surgical Complications Following Carotid Body Tumor Resection
Authors: Straughan David M. , Neychev Vladimir K. , Sadowski Samira M. , Ellis Ryan J. , Thomas Francine , Patronas Nicholas J. , Pacak Karel , Kebebew Electron , Nilubol Naris
Published: April 2015

Background

Surgical resection remains the treatment of choice for carotid body tumors (CBTs). Although perioperative complications such as carotid artery injury and neurological deficits occur infrequently, they can be devastating. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether clinical factors or preoperative imaging findings can accurately predict perioperative complications.

Methods

Twenty CBTs were resected from 19 patients. Preoperative computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the neck were used to measure the degree of circumferential involvement of the CBT to the internal carotid artery (ICA), carotid artery narrowing, tumor length, tumor volume, and the distance from the tip of the C2 dens to the superior aspect of the CBT (dens‐CBT). Operative reports and Shamblin classification (I–III) of each tumor were independently reviewed. Preoperative imaging features were compared to perioperative cranial nerve injury (CNI), rates of carotid artery injury, and major carotid artery repairs, as well as Shamblin classifications ≥II.

Results

CNI was associated with a high‐lying CBT (dens‐CBT = 1.8 vs. 2.9 cm, p < 0.01). All four patients with CNI had a dens‐CBT of <3 cm. Neither tumor length and tumor volume nor the involvement of the ICA (≥180° as measured by CT or MRI) was associated with CNI, carotid artery injury, major carotid artery repair, or Shamblin II or III classification. No carotid artery narrowing was observed in any of the cases.

Conclusions

Preoperative measurement of the dens‐CBT is helpful in identifying CBTs at risk for CNI after surgical resection.
Overexpression and characterization of a Ca2+ activated thermostable β-glucosidase with high ginsenoside Rb1 to ginsenoside 20(S)-Rg3 bioconversion productivity
Authors: Xie Jingcong , Zhao Dongxia , Zhao Linguo , Pei Jianjun , Xiao Wei , Ding Gang , Wang Zhenzhong
Published: April 2015

The thermostable β-glucosidase gene from Thermotoga petrophila DSM 13995 was cloned and overexpressed in Escherichia coli. The activity of the recombinant β-glucosidase was 21 U/mL in the LB medium. Recombinant β-glucosidase was purified, and its molecular weight was approximately 81 kDa. The optimal activity was at pH 5.0 and 90 °C, and the thermostability of the enzyme was improved by Ca2+. The β-glucosidase had high selectivity for cleaving the outer and inner glucopyranosyl moieties at the C-20 carbon of ginsenoside Rb1, which produced the pharmacologically active minor ginsenoside 20(S)-Rg3. In a reaction at 90 °C and pH 5.0, 10 g/L of ginsenoside Rb1 was transformed into 6.93 g/L of Rg3 within 90 min, with a corresponding molar conversion of 97.9 %, and Rg3 productivity of 4620 mg/L/h. This study is the first report of a GH3-family enzyme that used Ca2+ to improve its thermostability, and it is the first report on the high substrate concentration bioconversion of ginsenoside Rb1 to ginsenoside 20(S)-Rg3 by using thermostable β-glucosidase under high temperature.
On the Link between Cognitive Diagnostic Models and Knowledge Space Theory
Authors: Heller Jürgen , Stefanutti Luca , Anselmi Pasquale , Robusto Egidio
Published: April 2015

The present work explores the connections between cognitive diagnostic models (CDM) and knowledge space theory (KST) and shows that these two quite distinct approaches overlap. It is proved that in fact the Multiple Strategy DINA (Deterministic Input Noisy AND-gate) model and the CBLIM, a competence-based extension of the basic local independence model (BLIM), are equivalent. To demonstrate the benefits that arise from integrating the two theoretical perspectives, it is shown that a fairly complete picture on the identifiability of these models emerges by combining results from both camps. The impact of the results is illustrated by an empirical example, and topics for further research are pointed out.
The Reduced RUM as a Logit Model: Parameterization and Constraints
Authors: Chiu Chia-Yi , Köhn Hans-Friedrich
Published: April 2015

Cognitive diagnosis models (CDMs) for educational assessment are constrained latent class models. Examinees are assigned to classes of intellectual proficiency defined in terms of cognitive skills called attributes, which an examinee may or may not have mastered. The Reduced Reparameterized Unified Model (Reduced RUM) has received considerable attention among psychometricians. Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) or Expectation Maximization (EM) are typically used for estimating the Reduced RUM. Commercial implementations of the EM algorithm are available in the latent class analysis (LCA) routines of Latent GOLD and Mplus, for example. Fitting the Reduced RUM with an LCA routine requires that it be reparameterized as a logit model, with constraints imposed on the parameters. For models involving two attributes, these have been worked out. However, for models involving more than two attributes, the parameterization and the constraints are nontrivial and currently unknown. In this article, the general parameterization of the Reduced RUM as a logit model involving any number of attributes and the associated parameter constraints are derived. As a practical illustration, the LCA routine in Mplus is used for fitting the Reduced RUM to two synthetic data sets and to a real-world data set; for comparison, the results obtained by using the MCMC implementation in OpenBUGS are also provided.
Comparison of Ethyl Acetate with Hexane for Oil Extraction from Various Oilseeds
Authors: Lohani Umesh C. , Fallahi Parisa , Muthukumarappan K.
Published: April 2015

The aim of the current research was to determine a less hazardous, cheaper and less toxic alternative solvent for hexane for extraction of oil from different oilseeds showing equivalent oil yield and oil quality. A full factorial design with three levels of extraction temperature (80, 100 and 120 °C) and three levels of extraction time (40, 65 and 90 min) with constant solvent to seed ratio value of 4:1 was used to extract the oil. Maximum oil was recovered from canola followed by flax, mustard and camelina. The oil content of canola was found in range of 21.08–36.44, and 25.12–40.38 % for hexane and ethyl acetate, respectively. The heating values of oil extracted from all oilseeds using hexane and ethyl acetate were found in the range of 38.04–39.98 and 37.98–39.37 MJ/kg, respectively. Least viscosity was found for flax seed using hexane followed by camelina, canola and mustard as compared to ethyl acetate. Viscosity of flax oil ranged from 27.23–37.19, and 31.16–55.52 cP for hexane and ethyl acetate solvents, respectively. Considering human safety, less environmental impact, comparable oil yield and quality parameters, ethyl acetate can be a promising alternative to hexane.
Conjuring the Ghosts of Missing Children: A Monte Carlo Simulation of Reproductive Restraint in Tokugawa Japan
Authors: Drixler Fabian F.
Published: April 2015

This article quantifies the frequency of infanticide and abortion in one region of Japan by comparing observed fertility in a sample of 4.9 million person-years (1660–1872) with a Monte Carlo simulation of how many conceptions and births that population should have experienced. The simulation uses empirical values for the determinants of fertility from Eastern Japan itself as well as the best available studies of comparable populations. This procedure reveals that in several decades of the eighteenth century, at least 40 % of pregnancies must have ended in either an induced abortion or an infanticide. In addition, the simulation results imply a rapid decline in the incidence of infanticide and abortion during the nineteenth century, when in a reverse fertility transition, this premodern family-planning regime gave way to a new age of large families.
Hippocampal subfield surface deformity in nonsemantic primary progressive aphasia
Authors: Christensen Adam , Alpert Kathryn , Rogalski Emily , Cobia Derin , Rao Julia , Beg Mirza Faisal , Weintraub Sandra , Mesulam M.‐Marsel , Wang Lei
Published: April 2015

Background

Alzheimer neuropathology is found in almost half of patients with nonsemantic primary progressive aphasia (PPA). This study examined hippocampal abnormalities in PPA to determine similarities to those described in amnestic Alzheimer disease.

Methods

In 37 PPA patients and 32 healthy controls, we generated hippocampal subfield surface maps from structural magnetic resonance images and administered a face memory test. We analyzed group and hemisphere differences for surface shape measures and their relationship with test scores and APOE genotype.

Results

The hippocampus in PPA showed inward deformity (CA1 and subiculum subfields) and outward deformity (CA2–4 + dentate gyrus subfield) and smaller left than right volumes. Memory performance was related to hippocampal shape abnormalities in PPA patients, but not controls, even in the absence of memory impairments.

Conclusions

Hippocampal deformity in PPA is related to memory test scores. This may reflect a combination of intrinsic degenerative phenomena with transsynaptic or Wallerian effects of neocortical neuronal loss.
Combination of Vitamin E and Folic Acid Ameliorate Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis in Diabetic Rat Uterus
Authors: Zal Fatemeh , Mahdian Zeinab , Zare Razieh , Bahmanpour Soghra , Mostafavi-Pour Zohreh
Published: April 2015

This study was designed to assess oxidative damage and cell apoptosis in the uterus of rats with streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes. The role of vitamin E (VE) and/or folic acid (FA) in the protection from such damage was also evaluated. The treatments were performed for 4 weeks on six groups of rats: 1) normal control 2) diabetic control 3) diabetic rats receiving olive oil as a vehicle (without VE) 4) diabetic rats treated with VE (200 mg/kg) in olive oil 5) diabetic rats treated with FA (25 mg/kg) and 6) diabetic rats treated with VE + FA (200 and 25 mg/kg, respectively). We measured the malondialdehyde level (MDA), glutathione content (GSH) and the activity of GSH peroxidase (GPx), GSH reductase (GR) and catalase. Changes in caspase-3 activity were quantified in uterine tissue to assess the rate of apoptosis. In the rat uterine tissues, MDA content and caspase-3 activity were significantly elevated, while GPx, GR and CAT activities and the GSH level were significantly decreased in the diabetic control compared with those in normal rats (p < 0.05). The combination of the vitamins (VE + FA) restored uterine GSH content and enzymatic activities of GPx, GR and CAT and reduced the MDA level (p < 0.05). A prominent reduction in apoptosis of uterine cells was detected in diabetic rats treated with two vitamins (p < 0.05). Overall, VE alone, not FA, produced results similar to those of the VE + FA combination. Thus, in the uterine tissue of diabetic rats, diabetes complications (that are caused by oxidative damage and apoptosis induction) can be prevented by the systemic administration of VE and FA.
Lipopolysaccharides as Microbe-associated Molecular Patterns: A Structural Perspective
Authors: Di Lorenzo Flaviana , De Castro Cristina , Lanzetta Rosa , Parrilli Michelangelo , Silipo Alba , Molinaro Antonio
Published: April 2015

The lipopolysaccharide (LPS) macromolecule is the major constituent of the external leaflet of the Gram-negative outer membrane, exerting a plethora of biological activities in animals and plants. Among all, it represents a defensive barrier which helps bacteria to resist antimicrobial compounds and external stress factors and is involved in most aspects of host–bacterium interactions such as recognition, adhesion and colonization. One of the most interesting and studied LPS features is its key role in the pathogenesis of Gram-negative infections potentially causing fever or circulatory shock. On the other hand, the LPS acts as a beneficial factor for the host since it is recognized by specific receptors of the host innate immune system; this recognition activates the host defenses culminating, in most cases, in destruction of the pathogen. Most of the biological roles of the LPS are strictly related to its primary structure; thus knowledge of the structural architecture of such a macromolecule, which is different even among bacterial strains belonging to the same species, is a first step but is essential in order to understand the molecular bases of the wide variety of biological activities exerted by LPSs.
Synthetic Glycosylated Ether Glycerolipids as Anticancer Agents
Authors: Arthur Gilbert , Schweizer Frank , Ogunsina Makanjuola
Published: April 2015

Glycosylated antitumor ether lipids (GAELs) are a class of synthetic antitumor ether lipids (AELs) with a sugar moiety in place of the phosphocholine found in the prototypical AEL, edelfosine. This chapter reviews the development of GAELs as antitumor agents. Studies on structure–activity relationships, mechanism of induction of cell death, metabolism, selectivity against cancer cells, toxicity, hemolysis and thrombogenic effects are discussed. The requirements for significant cytotoxic activity include a glycerol moiety, a cationic sugar other than mannose and an O- or C-glycosidic bond with either α- or β-configuration. Compounds with S- and N-glycosidic linkages are not very active. The most active GAEL to date, 1-O-hexadecyl-2-O-methyl-3-O-(2′-amino-2′-deoxy-α-d-galactopyranosyl)-sn-glycerol, displays greater in vitro activity than edelfosine, the AEL “gold standard”. The unique properties of GAELs as antitumor agents include their apoptotic-independent mechanism of inducing cell death and the ability to kill cancer stem cells. These characteristics of GAELs offer the potential for their development into chemotherapeutic agents to prevent the recurrence of tumors as well as for treatment against drug-resistant cancers.
Carbohydrates and Glycomimetics in Alzheimer's Disease Therapeutics and Diagnosis
Authors: Dias Catarina , Rauter Amélia P.
Published: April 2015

Alzheimer's disease is the most prevalent form of late-life dementia, affecting millions worldwide. The devastating nature of the disease, unsuccessful treatment options and high socio-economic impact has inspired scientists to develop new structures with neuroprotective properties. Although currently available drugs target cholinergic neurotransmission, investigation towards disease-modifying therapies has been growing and carbohydrates have been playing an active role in the latest discoveries. Sugars, as polyfunctional compounds particularly important in biology and widely involved in human health and disease, have great potential to generate bioactive and bioavailable interesting molecules. Herein we discuss the importance of carbohydrates and glycomimetic structures, addressing different aspects of neuroprotection under investigation, targeting amyloid, tau and cholinergic hypotheses. The potential of carbohydrates in diagnosis is also discussed.
Amphiphilic Aminoglycoside Antimicrobials in Antibacterial Discovery
Authors: Gorityala Bala Kishan , Guchhait Goutam , Schweizer Frank
Published: April 2015

Amphiphilic aminoglycoside antimicrobials (AAAs) are an emerging class of polycationic antibacterial agents with broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. In contrast to aminoglycosides, which interfere with protein synthesis by interacting with the 30S ribosomal subunit, AAAs appear to target the bacterial cell wall by interactions with extracellular lipids or proteins or by enhancing the permeability of the bacterial cell wall. The physicochemical similarities between amphiphilic aminoglycosides and antimicrobial peptides, another class of polycationic amphiphiles with broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, suggest similar mode(s) of action. However, in contrast to antimicrobial peptides, AAAs are not composed of peptide bonds and as such promise to display superior metabolic stability. As a result, AAAs may be considered to be a novel class of antimicrobial peptidomimetics. Many AAAs possess impressive potent antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, especially against bacterial strains that are resistant to clinically used antibiotics. In summary, AAAs promise to provide a new and rich source of antibacterial lead structures to combat antibiotic-resistant and multidrug-resistant pathogens.
From the Capsular Polysaccharide to a Conjugate Vaccine Containing Haemophilus influenzae Type b Synthetic Oligosaccharide
Authors: Rodríguez Montero Maria C. , Ruíz García José A. , Valdés Balbín Yury , Vérez Bencomo Vicente
Published: April 2015

Haemophilus influenzae type b was a leading cause of bacterial meningitis, pneumonia and other infections in children under five years of age. Such an important world health problem prompted the discovery and introduction almost 25 years ago of a new vaccine, the so-called glycoconjugate vaccine. The bacterial capsular polysaccharide, chemically modified by a covalent linkage to a bacterial protein, became the ideal pharmaceutical preparation for the induction of a suitable immune response in infants, which then protects them against the deadly disease. Almost 10 years ago, a successful attempt to produce a vaccine with a synthetic oligosaccharide became the first vaccine based on a fully synthetic carbohydrate molecule. This vaccine, under the name Quimi-Hib, was first licensed in Cuba for use in infants. Since then, more than 34 million doses have been produced and used in several countries, proving that the synthetic approach is feasible. The present chapter reviews the most salient features of this development.
Vertically-aligned carbon nanotubes on aluminum as a light-weight positive electrode for lithium-polysulfide batteries
Authors: Liatard S. , Benhamouda K. , Fournier A. , Ramos R. , Barchasz C. , Dijon J.
Published: April 2015

A light-weight, high specific surface current collector made of vertically-aligned carbon nanotubes grown on an aluminum substrate was fabricated and studied as a positive electrode in a semi-liquid lithium/polysulfide battery.
Gas-phase rate coefficients of the reaction of ozone with four sesquiterpenes at 295 ± 2 K
Authors: Richters Stefanie , Herrmann Hartmut , Berndt Torsten
Published: April 2015

Room temperature rate coefficients of the reaction of ozone with four sesquiterpenes were measured using absolute and relative rate techniques.
Controllability analysis of transcriptional regulatory networks reveals circular control patterns among transcription factors
Authors: Österlund Tobias , Bordel Sergio , Nielsen Jens
Published: April 2015

Transcriptional regulation is the most committed type of regulation in living cells where transcription factors (TFs) control the expression of their target genes and TF expression is controlled by other TFs forming complex transcriptional regulatory networks that can be highly interconnected.
Reactivity of copper–α-synuclein peptide complexes relevant to Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Dell’Acqua Simone , Pirota Valentina , Anzani Cecilia , Rocco Michela M , Nicolis Stefania , Valensin Daniela , Monzani Enrico , Casella Luigi
Published: April 2015

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the presence of abnormal α-synuclein (αSyn) deposits in the brain. Alterations in metal homeostasis and metal-induced oxidative stress may play a crucial role in the aggregation of αSyn and, consequently, in the pathogenesis of PD. We have therefore investigated the capability of copper–αSyn6 and copper–αSyn15 peptide complexes, with the 1–6 and 1–15 terminal fragments of the protein, to promote redox reactions that can be harmful to other cellular components. The pseudo-tyrosinase activity of copper–αSyn complexes against catecholic (di-tert-butylcatechol (DTBCH2), 4-methylcatechol (4-MC)) and phenolic (phenol) substrates is lower compared to that of free copper(ii). In particular, the rates (kcat) of DTBCH2 catalytic oxidation are 0.030 s−1 and 0.009 s−1 for the reaction promoted by free copper(ii) and [Cu2+–αSyn15], respectively. On the other hand, HPLC/ESI-MS analysis of solutions of αSyn15 incubated with copper(ii) and 4-MC showed that αSyn is competitively oxidized with remarkable formation of sulfoxide at Met1 and Met5 residues. Moreover, the sulfoxidation of methionine residues, which is related to the aggregation of αSyn, also occurs on peptides not directly bound to copper, indicating that external αSyn can also be oxidized by copper. Therefore, this study strengthens the hypothesis that copper plays an important role in oxidative damage of αSyn which is proposed to be strongly related to the etiology of PD.
Colloidal synthesis and optical properties of type-II CdSe–CdTe and inverted CdTe–CdSe core–wing heteronanoplatelets
Authors: Antanovich A. V. , Prudnikau A. V. , Melnikau D. , Rakovich Y. P. , Chuvilin A. , Woggon U. , Achtstein A. W. , Artemyev M. V.
Published: April 2015

We developed colloidal synthesis to investigate the structural and electronic properties of CdSe–CdTe and inverted CdTe–CdSe heteronanoplatelets.
Peculiar pressure effect on Poisson ratio of graphone as a strain damper
Authors: Peng Qing , Dearden Albert K. , Chen Xiao-Jia , Huang Chen , Wen Xiaodong , De Suvranu
Published: April 2015

Abnormal increase in the Poisson ratio of graphone in response to an increase in pressure.
Zwitterionic copolymer-based and hydrogen bonding-strengthened self-healing hydrogel
Authors: Liu He , Xiong Chunming , Tao Zhen , Fan Yujiao , Tang Xiaofen , Yang Haiyang
Published: April 2015

We report here a zwitterionic copolymer based non-covalently cross-linked hydrogel with intrinsic self-healing nature for potential use in enhanced oil recovery.
Electrochemical properties of Ce(iii) in an equimolar mixture of LiCl–KCl and NaCl–KCl molten salts
Authors: Sahoo D. K. , Satpati A. K. , Krishnamurthy N.
Published: April 2015

Cyclic voltammetry of Ce(iii) in LiCl–KCl molten salt medium and the morphology of Ce metal deposited by electrochemical deposition.
Design of mesoporous silica hybrid materials as sorbents for the selective recovery of rare earth metals
Authors: Zheng Xudong , Wang Chun , Dai Jiangdong , Shi Weidong , Yan Yongsheng
Published: April 2015

The importance of rare earth metals in the global economy has increased significantly in recent years due to their essential role in advanced technologies in the electronics and biomedical industries.
Structural impact of graft and block copolymers based on poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone) and poly(2-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) in gene delivery
Authors: Zheng Xiang , Zhang Tingbin , Song Xiaoyan , Zhang Ling , Zhang Chunqiu , Jin Shubin , Xing Jinfeng , Liang Xing-Jie
Published: April 2015

The characteristics of graft and block copolymers based on PVP and PDMAEMA in pDNA compaction, cytotoxicity, transfection efficiency, internalization and intracellular distribution were systematically investigated.
Printed microwells with highly stable thin-film enzyme coatings for point-of-care multiplex bioassay of blood samples
Authors: Zhang Liting , Cao Xiaodan , Wang Lu , Zhao Xueyan , Zhang Songping , Wang Ping
Published: April 2015

A paper-based colorimetric biosensor suitable for point-of-care bioassay of blood samples is developed using highly stable enzyme thin-film coatings confined within inkjet printed polymeric microwells.
Application of vibrational spectroscopy techniques to non-destructively monitor plant health and development
Authors: Butler Holly J. , McAinsh Martin R. , Adams Steven , Martin Francis L.
Published: April 2015

Characterisation of plant leaf growth employing vibrational spectroscopy approaches.
Electrochemical study of the antiplatelet agent ticlopidine and its voltammetric determination in pharmaceutical and urine samples using a boron-doped diamond electrode
Authors: Scremin Jessica , Karimi-Maleh Hassan , Sartori Elen Romão
Published: April 2015

A new voltammetric method was developed for the determination of ticlopidine in pharmaceutical and urine samples using a cathodically pretreated boron-doped diamond electrode.
Co3O4 nanocrystal ink printed on carbon fiber paper as a large-area electrode for electrochemical water splitting
Authors: Du Shichao , Ren Zhiyu , Zhang Jun , Wu Jun , Xi Wang , Zhu Jiaqing , Fu Honggang
Published: April 2015

A large-area, self-supported Co3O4 nanocrystal/carbon fiber electrode for oxygen and hydrogen evolution reaction was fabricated via thermal decomposition of the [Co(NH3)n]2+–oleic acid complex and subsequent spray deposition.
Integrated, highly crystalline and water stable coordination framework films on various substrates and water-assisted protonic conductivity
Authors: Xiao Chen , Chu Zhengyu , Ren Xiao-Ming , Chen Tian-Yu , Jin Wanqin
Published: April 2015

The integrated, highly crystalline and water stable Prussian blue analogue films were successfully fabricated on the porous α-Al2O3, the conducting ITO and the flexible non-woven fabric substrates, respectively, using the self-assembly approach.
Defect-dependent colossal negative thermal expansion in UiO-66(Hf) metal–organic framework
Authors: Cliffe Matthew J. , Hill Joshua A. , Murray Claire A. , Coudert François-Xavier , Goodwin Andrew L.
Published: April 2015

Thermally densified UiO-66(Hf) shows the strongest reported isotropic negative thermal expansion (NTE) in a metal–organic framework. Incorporation of defects allows for tuning of the magnitude of both the densification and the NTE.
Large piezoelectric response of BiFeO3/BaTiO3 polycrystalline films induced by the low-symmetry phase
Authors: Hou Y. F. , Li W. L. , Zhang T. D. , Wang W. , Cao W. P. , Liu X. L. , Fei W. D.
Published: April 2015

Large piezoelectricity of BiFeO3/BaTiO3 polycrystalline films, whose d33 = 119.5 pm V−1, is derived from the low-symmetry phase and upward self-polarization.
What is the transfer mechanism of photogenerated carriers for the nanocomposite photocatalyst Ag3PO4/g-C3N4, band–band transfer or a direct Z-scheme?
Authors: Meng Sugang , Ning Xiaofeng , Zhang Tao , Chen Shi-Fu , Fu Xianliang
Published: April 2015

The transfer mechanism of photogenerated carriers for the Ag3PO4/g-C3N4nanocomposite has been clarified: Ag3PO4/g-C3N4exhibits highly efficient activity that is attributed to a Z-scheme.
A review of BiPO4, a highly efficient oxyacid-type photocatalyst, used for environmental applications
Authors: Pan Chengsi , Zhu Yongfa
Published: April 2015

This review presents the recent progress on the oxyacid-type photocatalyst, BiPO4, which possesses excellent UV-activity for environmental applications.
Decarboxylation and simultaneous reduction of silver(i) β-ketocarboxylates with three types of coordinations
Authors: Hatamura Mariko , Yamaguchi Shunro , Takane Shin-ya , Chen Yu , Suganuma Katuaki
Published: April 2015

A series of silver(i) β-ketocarboxylates decomposed over a narrow temperature range to form metallic silver. The structures of a model compound calculated using DFT and AIM methods showed three types of coordination around the Ag ion differing significantly in Ag–O bond strengths.
Synthesis of a novel organic–inorganic hybrid of polyaniline/titanium phosphate for Re(vii) removal
Authors: Gao Yang , Chen Changlun , Chen He , Zhang Rui , Wang Xiangke
Published: April 2015

The organic–inorganic hybrid material of polyaniline/titanium(iv) (PANI/Ti(HPO4)2) was synthesized by an oxidative polymerization reaction.
Synthesis of magnesium ZIF-8 from Mg(BH4)2
Authors: Horike S. , Kadota K. , Itakura T. , Inukai M. , Kitagawa S.
Published: April 2015

Porous Mg(2-methyl imidazolate)2 (Mg-ZIF-8) was synthesised from Mg(BH4)2, and it possesses an uncommon tetrahedral Mg2+–N coordination geometry.
Stability of polyphenols and carotenoids in strawberry and peach yoghurt throughout in vitro gastrointestinal digestion
Authors: Oliveira Ana , Pintado Manuela
Published: April 2015

The aim of this research was to evaluate the influence ofin vitrogastrointestinal digestion on the stability and bio-accessibility of phenolic compounds and carotenoids, as well as on the antioxidant activity in strawberry and peach enriched yoghurt.
Fabrication and characterization of optogenetic, multi-strip cardiac muscles
Authors: Chan Vincent , Neal Devin M. , Uzel Sebastien G. M. , Kim Hyeonyu , Bashir Rashid , Asada H. Harry
Published: April 2015

We demonstrate a novel technique to construct parallel assemblies of smaller muscle strips that maximize the volume of active muscle layers. In tandem with multiple muscle strips, external control through the use of optogenetics can selectively recruit muscle strips for the gradation of these forces.
Synthesis and biological evaluation of 2,3-diarylthiophene analogues of combretastatin A-4
Authors: Wang Zhan , Yang Qingkun , Bai Zhaoshi , Sun Jun , Jiang Xuewei , Song Hongrui , Wu Yingliang , Zhang Weige
Published: April 2015

A series of novel 2,3-diarylthiophene analogues of combretastatin A-4 were synthesised and evaluated for their in vitro anti-proliferative activities.
Triazole-stabilized gold and related noble metal nanoparticles for 4-nitrophenol reduction
Authors: Huang Deshun , Yang Guiying , Feng Xingwen , Lai Xinchun , Zhao Pengxiang
Published: April 2015

The preparation of N-substituted triazole–polyethylene glycol-stabilized metal nanoparticles and their high catalytic activities for 4-nitrophenol reduction.
Colorimetric logic response based on aptamer functionalized colloidal crystal hydrogels
Authors: Ye Baofen , Wang Huan , Ding Haibo , Zhao Yuanjin , Pu Yuepu , Gu Zhongze
Published: April 2015

A novel colorimetric logic system with visualization output signals was developed in aptamer-cross-linked colloidal crystal hydrogels.
Role of hydrogen in the chemical vapor deposition growth of MoS2atomic layers
Authors: Li Xiao , Li Xinming , Zang Xiaobei , Zhu Miao , He Yijia , Wang Kunlin , Xie Dan , Zhu Hongwei
Published: April 2015

In the two-step chemical vapor deposition growth of MoS2, hydrogen plays crucial roles as an inhibitor of the thermal-induced etching effect and as a promoter of desulfurization and oxidation of the obtained MoSxfilms.
Smart nanoparticles as targeting platforms for HIV infections
Authors: Adhikary Rishi Rajat , More Prachi , Banerjee Rinti
Published: April 2015

The review highlights the strategies to overcome challenges of conventional antiretroviral therapy through the development of smart nanoparticles.
Photocleavable ligands for protein decoration of DNA nanostructures
Authors: Brglez Josipa , Ahmed Ishtiaq , Niemeyer Christof M.
Published: April 2015

Amino-reactive, photocleavable modifiers bearing small-molecule hapten groups were incorporated into DNA origami to control binding of cognate proteins.
A short synthesis of (±)-antroquinonol in an unusual scaffold of 4-hydroxy-2-cyclohexenone
Authors: Hsu Che-Sheng , Chou Ho-Hsuan , Fang Jim-Min
Published: April 2015

A short synthesis of the anticancer agent antroquinonol having an unusual core structure of 2,3-dimethoxy-4-hydroxycyclohex-2-enone with substituents at three contiguous stereocenters.