bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of dietary supplementation with EPA and/or α‐lipoic acid on adipose tissue transcriptomic profile of healthy overweight/obese women following a hypocaloric diet
Authors: Huerta Ana E. , Prieto‐Hontoria Pedro L. , Fernández‐Galilea Marta , Escoté Xavier , Martínez J. Alfredo , Moreno‐Aliaga María J.
Published: August 2016

In obesity, the increment of adiposity levels disrupts the whole body homeostasis, promoting an over production of oxidants and inflammatory mediators. The current study aimed to characterize the transcriptomic changes promoted by supplementation with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 1.3 g/day), α‐lipoic acid (0.3 g/day), or both (EPA + α‐lipoic acid, 1.3 g/day + 0.3 g/day) in subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue from overweight/obese healthy women, who followed a hypocaloric diet (30% of total energy expenditure) during ten weeks, by using a microarray approach. At the end of the intervention, a total of 33,297 genes were analyzed using Affymetrix GeneChip arrays. EPA promoted changes in extracellular matrix remodeling gene expression, besides a rise of genes associated with either chemotaxis or wound repair. α‐Lipoic acid decreased expression of genes related with cell adhesion and inflammation. Furthermore, α‐lipoic acid, especially in combination with EPA, upregulated the expression of genes associated with lipid catabolism while downregulated genes involved in lipids storage. Together, all these data suggest that some of the metabolic effects of EPA and α‐lipoic acid could be related to their regulatory actions on adipose tissue metabolism. © 2016 BioFactors, 43(1):117–131, 2017
Population-based study of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm
Authors: Laine M T , Laukontaus S J , Kantonen I , Venermo M
Published: August 2016

Background

The incidence of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) and their rupture has been reported to be decreasing. The aim was to evaluate trends in ruptured AAA (rAAA) incidence in the hospital district of Helsinki and Uusimaa (HUS) in southern Finland. This was a population-based retrospective review of all patients with rAAA in this well defined geographical area during 2003–2013.

Methods

Data for all patients treated for rAAA at Helsinki University Hospital, the only vascular surgery centre in an area of 1·5 million inhabitants, were collected from local vascular registry. All deaths attributed to rAAA were obtained from the cause of death registry of Statistics Finland.

Results

The mean(s.d.) age of the 712 patients with rAAA was 76·5(9·6) years; 76·7 per cent of them were men. Only 330 patients (46·3 per cent of those with rAAA) arrived alive at Helsinki University Hospital. The turn-down rate for surgical treatment was 10·3 per cent. Of the 296 patients operated on, 199 (67·2 per cent) were alive at 30 days. Only 27·9 per cent of all patients were alive 30 days after rupture of the AAA. The incidence of rAAA was 4·3 per 100 000 inhabitants and the mortality rate was 3·2 per 100 000 inhabitants. A decreasing trend was seen in incidence and mortality during the 11-year study interval.

Conclusion

The incidence of rAAA is decreasing in the HUS district. Mortality from rAAA remains very high, because half of the patients die before reaching the hospital.
Effect of Hydrogen Pretreatment of Platinum Nanoparticles on their Catalytic Properties: Reactions with Alkyl Radicals – A Mechanistic Study
Authors: Bar‐Ziv Ronen , Zidki Tomer , Zilbermann Israel , Yardeni Guy , Meyerstein Dan
Published: August 2016

Methyl radicals react with platinum nanoparticles (NPs) suspended in aqueous solutions to form (Pt0‐NPs)‐(CH3)n as a stable major product. Hydrogen gas treatment of the Pt0‐NPs affects the composition of the products and the surface reactions. The results clearly point out that pretreatment of Pt0‐NPs and (Pt0‐NPs)‐(CH3)n with H2 considerably affects their reactions with methyl radicals. The implications of the results on catalytic processes are discussed.
Continuous‐Flow Synthesis and Functionalization of Magnetite: Intensified Process for Tailored Nanoparticles
Authors: Haseidl Franz , Müller Barbara , Hinrichsen Olaf
Published: August 2016

The spinning disc reactor (SDR) is used for the size‐selective synthesis and functionalization of nanoscale superparamagnetic iron oxide particles in a single‐step continuous‐flow process. Nanometer‐sized magnetite (Fe3O4) particles are precipitated in a highly sheared thin liquid film on a rapidly rotating disc. A novel liquid‐liquid synthesis is presented whereas control over particle size is reached via adjustable micromixing properties on the disc. The nanoparticles with tailored size, narrow size distribution, and high saturation magnetization can thus meet the special requirements for the use in biotechnological, medical, and catalytic applications. The functionalization of the particles with oleic acid for higher biocompatibility and better dispersibility is accomplished in the SDR in a single step.
Influence of Bubble Bouncing on Mass Transfer and Chemical Reaction
Authors: Timmermann Jens , Hoffmann Marko , Schlüter Michael
Published: August 2016

The hydrodynamics of bubbly flows is dominated by bubble‐induced turbulence and bubble‐bubble interactions. Both phenomena influence the gas‐liquid mass transfer as well as the mixing of reactants. If the time scales of mass transfer and mixing are in the same order as the time scales of a parallel‐consecutive reaction, the yield and selectivity will be affected by the local hydrodynamics. An experimental setup is presented that enables the investigation of mass transfer during well‐defined and adjustable bubble collisions. The influence of CO2 bubble collisions on mass transfer is measured and modeled with a modified Sherwood number correlation. Further visualization of the concentration field in the vicinity of O2 bubbles by means of laser‐induced fluorescence demonstrates the dependency of mass transfer from a chemical reaction and permits the development of a first model approach.
Thermally Prepared Mn2O3/RuO2/Ru Thin Films as Highly Active Catalysts for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction in Alkaline Media
Authors: Browne Michelle P. , Nolan Hugo , Twamley Brendan , Duesberg Georg S. , Colavita Paula E. , Lyons Michael E. G.
Published: August 2016

Herein, a thermal decomposition method was utilised to fabricate pure and mixed manganese and ruthenium oxides as catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) reveal the manganese and ruthenium species produced at an annealing temperature of 600 °C to be Mn2O3 and RuO2/Ru, respectively. A number of the mixed Mn/Ru oxides exhibit overpotential values approximately 200 mV lower than previously reported for Mn2O3/RuO2 oxides (at a current density of 10 mA cm−2) for the OER, whereas the Mn 50 material exhibits similar overpotentials reported in the literature for RuO2. Turnover frequency (TOF) numbers for the Mn/Ru oxides were also calculated, and the results show that the TOF values for some of the materials in this work are higher than RuO2. XPS analysis indicates a change in chemical environment of the Mn/Ru materials, which exhibit higher TOF values. Subsequently, the pure Ru 100 material used in this study has a lower overpotential at 10 mA cm−2, as compared to previously reported values in the literature for RuO2 in alkaline media. This may be attributed to the presence of metallic Ru found in the film or the decrease in crystallite size, as determined by XRD. XPS analysis was also carried out after the OER to help determine the order of activity of the materials in this work.
Kinetics of Multi‐Step Redox Processes by Time‐Resolved In Situ X‐ray Diffraction
Authors: Buelens Lukas C. , Galvita Vladimir V. , Poelman Hilde , Detavernier Christophe , Marin Guy B.
Published: August 2016

The kinetics of redox reactions of iron oxide in oxygen carrier 50Fe2O3/MgAl2O4 are examined using different time‐resolved techniques. Reduction kinetics are studied by H2 temperature‐programmed reduction (H2‐TPR) monitored by time‐resolved in situ XRD. In contrast to conventional TPR, in situ XRD distinguishes the three‐stage reduction of Fe2O3 → Fe3O4 → FeO → Fe. It also shows that the oxidation of Fe → Fe3O4 by CO2 has no intermediate crystalline phases, explaining why its kinetics can easily be investigated by conventional CO2 temperature‐programmed oxidation (CO2‐TPO). A shrinking core model which takes into account solid state diffusion allows describing the experimental data.
Magnetic demulsifier prepared by using one‐pot reaction and its performance for treating oily wastewater
Authors: Fang Shenwen , Zhu Ying , Chen Bin , Xiong Yan , Duan Ming
Published: August 2016

In this study, a magnetic demulsifier, called M‐DMEA, was prepared by “one‐pot” synthesis through the pyrolysis of ferric triacetylacetonate (Fe(acac)3) in DMEA 1231, which is a type of polyether demulsifier used in oil fields. The morphologies and phase compositions of the M‐DMEA nanoparticles were determined by transmission electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction, respectively. The presence of surface coating was confirmed by using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and thermogravimetric analyses (TGA). Magnetic property was measured by vibrating sample magnetometer. The demulsification of M‐DMEA for treating oily wastewater produced from polymer flooding (OWPF) was investigated. It was found that the oil removal of M‐DMEA reached 96.0 % at the concentration of 4.0 g/L. In addition, M‐DMEA can be recycled and reused by using an external magnet. The results showed that there was a significant decrease in the oil removal after two cycles because the polymer residue remaining in OPWF, namely partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM), was adsorbed onto the surface of M‐DMEA.
Electrochemical Determination of Salivary N‐Acetylneuraminic Acid by Miniaturized Capillary Electrophoresis Coupled with Sample Stacking
Authors: Zheng Yiliang , Wang Tingting , Kong Jiaxing , Ma Yaolu , Heng Yi , Ren Yujuan , Ye Jiannong , Chu Qingcui
Published: August 2016

Due to their important biological role as markers for different pathologies, sialic acid (SA) analyses are important for clinical research. In this work, a miniaturized capillary electrophoresis with amperometric detection (mini‐CE‐AD) was developed for the determination of N‐acetylneuraminic acid (NANA), which is the most widespread form of SAs. NANA was first oxidized by periodic acid in an acidic solution, and then the oxidation product β‐formyl pyruvic acid was derivatized with electroactive 2‐thiobarbituric acid (TBA) to form an electroactive NANA‐TBA adduct, which could be readily determined by mini‐CE‐AD. The limit of detection (LOD) of NANA‐TBA could achieve 0.50 µg/mL (1.6 µmol·L−1, S/N=3) based on an online enrichment approach of moving chemical reaction boundary. The proposed method was successfully applied to the analysis of NANA in human saliva, and the recoveries were in the range of 91.8% –109% with RSDs of 1.8% –3.9%. Due to its simple design and construction, low cost and portability, the mini‐CE‐AD device will possess more practicability in more field work as an alternative to conventional and microchip CE approaches.
Functional Polypyridine Co Complex as an Efficient Catalyst for Photo‐Induced Water Oxidation
Authors: Wang Hongyan , Xin Zhijuan , Xiang Ruijuan , Liu Si , Gao Xuewang , Li Chengbo
Published: August 2016

A novel mononuclear cobalt complex 1 was synthesized by treatment of CoCl2·6H2O with a COOMe functionalized TPA ligand (TPA=tris(2‐pyridylmethyl)amine). In a basic borate buffer, 1 acts as an efficient catalyst for water oxidation, which is confirmed by an extinct catalytic oxidant wave in electrochemistry. Visible light‐driven water oxidation has been achieved by 1 with a TON of 127.7 and a TOF of 3.8 s−1 respectively in a homogeneous system. In comparison to the reference RC with naked TPA, the higher efficiency of 1 evidences COOMe on ligand can improve the catalytic efficiency, leading to an effective pathway towards construction of a robust and stable artificial photosynthesis system.
Application of Response Surface Methodology to Electrocoagulation Treatment of Hospital Wastewater
Authors: Veli Sevil , Arslan Ayla , Bingöl Deniz
Published: August 2016

This study investigates the treatments of hospital wastewater by electrocoagulation using Fe, Al, and stainless steel (SS) electrodes in a batch electrochemical reactor. Parameters that affected the removal of total organic carbon (TOC) of the wastewater with a pH from 5 to 8 and a current density (CD) ranging from 2.03–4.87 mA/cm2 were examined. The optimum conditions were determined using response surface methodology. In accordance with the suggested mathematical models, maximum TOC removal efficiency was calculated as 99.11% (pH 7.56, CD 4.87 mA/cm2), 99.91% (pH 5.45, CD 4.46 mA/cm2), and 99.89% (pH 7.80, CD 2.68 mA/cm2) for the Fe, Al, and SS electrodes, respectively. The experimental results were also in reasonable agreement with the used model. For all electrodes, the removal efficiencies were high. After analysis of variance (ANOVA), the determination coefficients of the models were 99.87%, 96.02%, and 94.15% showing that the quadratic models were a good fit and of high significance. The model predictions were confirmed to be appropriate to the experimental data with a deviation of <2.5%. In addition, the SS electrode is better than the Fe and Al electrodes according to energy consumption cost.
Frequency, predictors, and outcomes of urine drug testing among patients with advanced cancer on chronic opioid therapy at an outpatient supportive care clinic
Authors: Arthur Joseph A. , Edwards Tonya , Lu Zhanni , Reddy Suresh , Hui David , Wu Jimin , Liu Diane , Williams Janet L. , Bruera Eduardo
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND

Data are limited on the use and outcomes of urine drug tests (UDTs) among patients with advanced cancer. The main objective of this study was to determine the factors associated with UDT ordering and results in outpatients with advanced cancer.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was conducted of 1058 patients who attended an outpatient supportive care clinic from March 2014 to November 2015. Sixty‐one patients who were receiving chronic opioid therapy and underwent UDTs were identified. A control group of 120 patients who did not undergo UDTs was selected for comparison.

RESULTS

Sixty‐one of 1058 patients (6%) underwent UDTs, and 33 of 61 patients (54%) had abnormal results. Multivariate analysis indicated that the odds ratio for UDT ordering was 3.9 in patients who had positive Cut Down, Annoyed, Guilty, and Eye Opener (CAGE) questionnaire results (P = .002), 4.41 in patients aged < 45 years (P < .001), 5.58 in patients who had moderate‐to‐severe pain (Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale pain scores ≥4; P < .001), 0.27 in patients with advanced‐stage cancer, (P = .008), and 0.25 in patients who had moderate‐to‐severe fatigue (P = .001). Among 52 abnormal UDT results in 33 patients, the most common opioid findings were prescribed opioids absent in urine (14 of 52 tests; 27%) and unprescribed opioids in urine (13 of 52 tests; 25%).

CONCLUSIONS

UDTs were used infrequently among outpatients with advanced cancer who were receiving chronic opioid therapy. Younger age, positive CAGE questionnaire results, early stage cancer or no evidence of disease status, higher pain intensity, and lower fatigue scores were significant predictors of UDT ordering. More than 50% of UDT results were abnormal. More research is necessary to better characterize aberrant opioid use in patients with advanced cancer. Cancer 2016;122:3732‐9. © 2016 American Cancer Society.
Variability in the number of abdominal leucokinergic neurons in adult Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Alvarez‐Rivero Javier , Moris‐Sanz Marta , Estacio‐Gómez Alicia , Montoliu‐Nerin Merce , Díaz‐Benjumea Fernando J. , Herrero Pilar
Published: August 2016

Developmental plasticity allows individuals with the same genotype to show different phenotypes in response to environmental changes. An example of this is how neuronal diversity is protected at the expense of neuronal number under sustained undernourishment during the development of the Drosophila optic lobe. In the development of the Drosophila central nervous system, neuroblasts go through two phases of neurogenesis separated by a period of mitotic quiescence. Although during embryonic development much evidence indicates that both cell number and the cell fates generated by each neuroblast are very precisely controlled in a cell autonomous manner, after quiescence extrinsic factors control the reactivation of neuroblast proliferation in a fashion that has not yet been elucidated. Moreover, there is very little information about whether environmental changes affect lineage progression during postembryonic neurogenesis. Using as a model system the pattern of abdominal leucokinergic neurons (ABLKs), we have analyzed how changes in a set of environmental factors affect the number of ABLKs generated during postembryonic neurogenesis. We describe the variability in ABLK number between individuals and between hemiganglia of the same individual and, by genetic analysis, we identify the bithorax‐complex genes and the ecdysone hormone as critical factors in these differences. We also explore the possible adaptive roles involved in this process. J. Comp. Neurol. 525:639–660, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Embryogenesis and early skeletogenesis in the antarctic bullhead notothen, Notothenia coriiceps
Authors: Postlethwait John H. , Yan Yi‐lin , Desvignes Thomas , Allard Corey , Titus Tom , Le François Nathalie R. , Detrich H. William
Published: August 2016

Background: Environmental temperature influences rates of embryonic development, but a detailed staging series for vertebrate embryos developing in the subzero cold of Antarctic waters is not yet available from fertilization to hatching. Given projected warming of the Southern Ocean, it is imperative to establish a baseline to evaluate potential effects of changing climate on fish developmental dynamics. Results: We studied the Bullhead notothen (Notothenia coriiceps), a notothenioid fish inhabiting waters between ‐1.9 and +2 °C. In vitro fertilization produced embryos that progressed through cleavage, epiboly, gastrulation, segmentation, organogenesis, and hatching. We compared morphogenesis spatially and temporally to Zebrafish and medaka. Experimental animals hatched after about 6 months to early larval stages. To help understand skeletogenesis, we analyzed late embryos for expression of sox9 and runx2, which regulate chondrogenesis, osteogenesis, and eye development. Results revealed that, despite their prolonged developmental time course, N. coriiceps embryos developed similarly to those of other teleosts with large yolk cells. Conclusions: Our studies set the stage for future molecular analyses of development in these extremophile fish. Results provide a foundation for understanding the impact of ocean warming on embryonic development and larval recruitment of notothenioid fish, which are key factors in the marine trophic system. Developmental Dynamics 245:1066–1080, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Human behavior in a staircase during a total evacuation drill in a high‐rise building
Authors: Sano Tomonori , Yajima Masanori , Kadokura Hiroyuki , Sekizawa Ai
Published: August 2016

Many studies have been conducted on the evacuation behavior on the staircases of buildings, but very little data are available for a situation with many occupants in a crowded high‐rise building. Therefore, this study investigated the evacuation behavior of a large number of evacuees on the staircase of a 25‐story high‐rise building. A total evacuation drill was conducted with 2088 evacuees, and the behavior of 1136 evacuees on the landings of the south staircase was recorded by a video recorder on the ceiling. The relationship between the density and speed of the evacuees on the landings was analyzed from the evacuation data for two situations: without and with merging in the stair flow. The evacuation stair flow in this drill had merging occupants entering from the floors, but no one entered from the lower floors during the latter period of the drill. Therefore, the flow during the latter period was treated as non‐merging flow, for which it was observed that, when the staircase was fully crowded, the density on the landings in the moving situation was different from that in the stopped situation. Moreover, the density on the landings was different from that on the treads. Furthermore, in the merging flow, a merging ratio of approximately 50:50 occurred during the congested evacuation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combination of phosphotidylinositol‐3‐kinase targeting with cetuximab and irradiation: A preclinical study on an orthotopic xenograft model of head and neck cancer
Authors: Bozec Alexandre , Ebran Nathalie , Radosevic–Robin Nina , Chamorey Emmanuel , Yahia Hedi Ben , Marcie Serge , Gautier Mathieu , Penault–Llorca Frédérique , Milano Gérard
Published: August 2016

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of combining the phosphotidylinositol‐3‐kinase (PI3K) inhibitor buparlisib (BKM)120 with the anti‐epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) agent cetuximab and radiotherapy (RT) on an orthotopic model of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Methods

We evaluated the antitumor efficacy of BKM120, cetuximab, and RT, administered alone or in combination, using the human PIK3CA‐mutated HNSCC cell line, CAL33, injected into the floor of the mouth of nude mice.

Results

Compared with control, the BKM120‐cetuximab and the BKM120‐cetuximab‐RT combinations led to the highest tumor inhibition (p < .001). The highest inhibitory effect of treatments on cell proliferation, mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) and PI3K/protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathways were found with the BKM120‐cetuximab association. The association of BKM120 and cetuximab with RT inhibited RT‐induced activation of the MAPK pathway.

Conclusion

These results can serve as a preclinical rationale for innovative treatments combining PI3K inhibition with anti‐EGFR therapies and irradiation in patients with HNSCC. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: 151–159, 2017
A cohort study of cervical screening using partial HPV typing and cytology triage
Authors: Schiffman Mark , Hyun Noorie , Raine‐Bennett Tina R. , Katki Hormuzd , Fetterman Barbara , Gage Julia C. , Cheung Li C. , Befano Brian , Poitras Nancy , Lorey Thomas , Castle Philip E. , Wentzensen Nicolas
Published: August 2016

HPV testing is more sensitive than cytology for cervical screening. However, to incorporate HPV tests into screening, risk‐stratification (“triage”) of HPV‐positive women is needed to avoid excessive colposcopy and overtreatment. We prospectively evaluated combinations of partial HPV typing (Onclarity, BD) and cytology triage, and explored whether management could be simplified, based on grouping combinations yielding similar 3‐year or 18‐month CIN3+ risks. We typed ∼9,000 archived specimens, taken at enrollment (2007–2011) into the NCI‐Kaiser Permanente Northern California (KPNC) HPV Persistence and Progression (PaP) cohort. Stratified sampling, with reweighting in the statistical analysis, permitted risk estimation of HPV/cytology combinations for the 700,000+‐woman KPNC screening population. Based on 3‐year CIN3+ risks, Onclarity results could be combined into five groups (HPV16, else HPV18/45, else HPV31/33/58/52, else HPV51/35/39/68/56/66/68, else HPV negative); cytology results fell into three risk groups (“high‐grade,” ASC‐US/LSIL, NILM). For the resultant 15 HPV group‐cytology combinations, 3‐year CIN3+ risks ranged 1,000‐fold from 60.6% to 0.06%. To guide management, we compared the risks to established “benchmark” risk/management thresholds in this same population (e.g., LSIL predicted 3‐year CIN3+ risk of 5.8% in the screening population, providing the benchmark for colposcopic referral). By benchmarking to 3‐year risk thresholds (supplemented by 18‐month estimates), the widely varying risk strata could be condensed into four action bands (very high risk of CIN3+ mandating consideration of cone biopsy if colposcopy did not find precancer; moderate risk justifying colposcopy; low risk managed by intensified follow‐up to permit HPV “clearance”; and very low risk permitting routine screening.) Overall, the results support primary HPV testing, with management of HPV‐positive women using partial HPV typing and cytology.
DJ‐1/Park7 Sensitive Na+/H+ Exchanger 1 (NHE1) in CD4+ T Cells
Authors: Zhou Yuetao , Shi Xiaolong , Chen Hong , Zhang Shaqiu , Salker Madhuri S. , Mack Andreas F. , Föller Michael , Mak Tak W. , Singh Yogesh , Lang Florian
Published: August 2016

DJ‐1/Park7 is a redox‐sensitive chaperone protein counteracting oxidation and presumably contributing to the control of oxidative stress responses and thus inflammation. DJ‐1 gene deletion exacerbates the progression of Parkinson's disease presumably by augmenting oxidative stress. Formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is paralleled by activation of the Na+/H+ exchanger 1 (NHE1). ROS formation in CD4+ T cells plays a decisive role in regulating inflammatory responses. In the present study, we explored whether DJ‐1 is expressed in CD4+ T cells, and affects ROS production as well as NHE1 in those cells. To this end, DJ‐1 and NHE1 transcript, and protein levels were quantified by qRT‐PCR and Western blotting, respectively, intracellular pH (pHi) utilizing bis‐(2‐carboxyethyl)‐5‐(and‐6)‐carboxyfluorescein (BCECF) fluorescence, NHE activity from realkalinization after an ammonium pulse, and ROS production utilizing 2′,7′ −dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCFDA) fluorescence. As a result DJ‐1 was expressed in CD4+ T cells. ROS formation, NHE1 transcript levels, NHE1 protein, and NHE activity were higher in CD4+ T cells from DJ‐1 deficient mice than in CD4+ T cells from wild type mice. Antioxidant N‐acetyl‐cysteine (NAC) and protein tyrosine kinase (PTK) inhibitor staurosporine decreased the NHE activity in DJ‐1 deficient CD4+ T cells, and blunted the difference between DJ‐1−/− and DJ‐1+/+ CD4+ T cells, an observation pointing to a role of ROS in the up‐regulation of NHE1 in DJ‐1−/− CD4+ T cells. In conclusion, DJ‐1 is a powerful regulator of ROS production as well as NHE1 expression and activity in CD4+ T cells. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 3050–3059, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Role of sonography in the diagnosis and treatment of a ganglion cyst compressing the lateral branch of deep peroneal nerve
Authors: Brestas Paraskevas , Protopsaltis Ioannis , Drossos Charalampos
Published: August 2016

Selective compression neuropathy of the lateral branch of the deep peroneal nerve is rare. A 55‐year‐old woman with ankle instability and mild weakness of extension of the toes was examined with sonography (US), which revealed the presence of a ganglion cyst compressing selectively the lateral branch of the deep peroneal nerve. US‐guided aspiration of the cyst resulted in nerve decompression and progressive resolution of symptoms. This case demonstrates the importance of examining the deep peroneal nerve and its branches when performing US in the clinical setting of ankle instability. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 45:108–111, 2017;
Sauropsids Cornification is Based on Corneous Beta‐Proteins, a Special Type of Keratin‐Associated Corneous Proteins of the Epidermis
Authors: ALIBARDI LORENZO
Published: August 2016

The evolution of the process of cornification in amniote epidermis from the general process of keratinization present in simple epithelia of anamniotes took place through the evolution of specialized intermediate filament (α) keratins, keratin‐associated proteins (KAPs) and corneous proteins (CPs). The scanty information on the three‐dimensional conformation of known KAPs and CPs indicate these proteins contain α‐helix, random coiled, or beta sheets with different lengths and organizations. CP genes originated in a chromosome locus indicated as epidermal differentiation complex (EDC), and transformed the epidermal keratinization of anamniotes into the cornified epidermis and skin appendages of amniotes (claws, beaks, and feathers). In particular, peculiar genes encoding for small proteins with a central region of 34 amino acids conformed as beta sheets were originated in the EDC of sauropsids (reptiles and birds). These proteins were traditionally indicated as beta‐keratins because they form filaments of 3–4 nm in diameter and show an X‐ray beta pattern. Different from other proteins of the EDC, dimers of these corneous beta‐proteins associate into long polymers of filamentous proteins utilized in sauropsids skin appendages, such as scales and feathers. Future challenges in this area of research will be the study on gene regulation and expression for these proteins, their origin and evolution in different lineages of sauropsids, and their role in determining the material properties of sauropsid scales and other skin appendages.
Urban–rural differences in near‐surface air temperature as resolved by the Central Europe Refined analysis (CER): sensitivity to planetary boundary layer schemes and urban canopy models
Authors: Jänicke Britta , Meier Fred , Fenner Daniel , Fehrenbach Ute , Holtmann Achim , Scherer Dieter
Published: August 2016

Model‐based studies on urban heat islands can be seriously affected by errors in near‐surface air temperature (T2), especially if errors differ between cities and their rural surroundings. Furthermore, errors in T2 strongly depend on selected parameterisation schemes, in particular on the planetary boundary layer (PBL) scheme and the urban canopy model (UCM). We developed the Central Europe Refined analysis (CER), a dataset generated by dynamically downscaling a global atmospheric reanalysis with the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model for Central Europe (30 km), Germany (10 km), and the region of Berlin‐Brandenburg (2 km). CER data were analysed to study urban–rural and intra‐urban differences in T2 for Berlin as well as to test the sensitivity of T2 against two different PBL schemes, a mosaic approach, and three UCMs with different levels of complexity. Results were evaluated using data from 22 weather stations. All tested configurations simulated T2 with small deviations from observations. The PBL schemes predominantly control the deviation of T2. From the tested PBL schemes, the Bougeault–Lacarrére scheme performed better than the Mellor–Yamada–Janjić scheme. The application of different UCMs and the mosaic approach also influenced the deviations, but not as strongly as the PBL schemes. The performance of the UCMs regarding the representation of intra‐urban and urban–rural differences showed that differences were largest when using a complex multi‐layer UCM. Overall, the simplest model showed lowest deviations. We conclude that more research on UCMs is required because complex UCMs showed potentials but did not outperform the simple slab model.
Potential application of microalga Spirulina platensis as a protein source
Authors: Lupatini Anne Luize , Colla Luciane Maria , Canan Cristiane , Colla Eliane
Published: August 2016

The high protein level of various microalgal species is one of the main reasons to consider them an unconventional source of this compound. Spirulina platensis stands out for being one of the richest protein sources of microbial origin (460–630 g kg−1, dry matter basis), having similar protein levels when compared to meat and soybeans. The use of S. platensis in food can bring benefits to human health owing to its chemical composition, since it has high levels of vitamins, minerals, phenolics, essential fatty acids, amino acids and pigments. Furthermore, the development of new protein sources to supply the shortage of this nutrient is an urgent need, and protein from S. platensis plays an important role in this scenario. In this sense, extraction processes that allow maximum protein yield and total utilization of biomass is an urgent need, and ultrasonic waves have proven to be an effective extraction technique. The number of scientific papers related to protein fraction from S. platensis is still limited; thus further studies on its functional and technological properties are needed. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Locating the electrical junctions in Cu(In,Ga)Se2 and Cu2ZnSnSe4 solar cells by scanning capacitance spectroscopy
Authors: Xiao Chuanxiao , Jiang Chun‐Sheng , Moutinho Helio , Levi Dean , Yan Yanfa , Gorman Brian , Al‐Jassim Mowafak
Published: August 2016

We determined the electrical junction (EJ) locations in Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) and Cu2ZnSnSe4 (CZTS) solar cells with ~20‐nm accuracy by developing scanning capacitance spectroscopy (SCS) applicable to the thin‐film devices. Cross‐sectional sample preparation for the SCS measurement was developed by high‐energy ion milling at room temperature for polishing the cross section to make it flat, followed by low‐energy ion milling at liquid nitrogen temperature for removing the damaged layer and subsequent annealing for growing a native oxide layer. The SCS shows distinct p‐type, transitional, and n‐type spectra across the devices, and the spectral features change rapidly with location in the depletion region, which results in determining the EJ with ~20‐nm resolution. We found an n‐type CIGS in the region next to the CIGS/CdS interface; thus, the cell is a homojunction. The EJ is ~40 nm from the interface on the CIGS side. In contrast, such an n‐type CZTS was not found in the CZTS/CdS cells. The EJ is ~20 nm from the CZTS/CdS interface, which is consistent with asymmetrical carrier concentrations of the p‐CZTS and n‐CdS in a heterojunction cell. Our results of unambiguously determination of the junction locations contribute significantly to understanding the large open‐circuit voltage difference between CIGS and CZTS. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Intrinsic protein disorder could be overlooked in cocrystallization conditions: An SRCD case study
Authors: Németh Eszter , Balogh Ria K. , Borsos Katalin , Czene Anikó , Thulstrup Peter W. , Gyurcsik Béla
Published: August 2016

X‐ray diffractometry dominates protein studies, as it can provide 3D structures of these diverse macromolecules or their molecular complexes with interacting partners: substrates, inhibitors, and/or cofactors. Here, we show that under cocrystallization conditions the results could reflect induced protein folds instead of the (partially) disordered original structures. The analysis of synchrotron radiation circular dichroism spectra revealed that the Im7 immunity protein stabilizes the native‐like solution structure of unfolded NColE7 nuclease mutants via complex formation. This is consistent with the fact that among the several available crystal structures with its inhibitor or substrate, all NColE7 structures are virtually the same. Our results draw attention to the possible structural consequence of protein modifications, which is often hidden by compensational effects of intermolecular interactions. The growing evidence on the importance of protein intrinsic disorder thus, demands more extensive complementary experiments in solution phase with the unligated form of the protein of interest.
Triply Halide‐Bridged Dinuclear Iridium(III) Complexes with Chiral Diphosphine Ligands as New Easy‐to‐Handle Iridium Catalysts for Asymmetric Hydrogenation of Imines and N‐Heteroaromatics
Authors: Mashima Kazushi , Higashida Kosuke , Iimuro Atsuhiro , Nagae Haruki , Kita Yusuke
Published: August 2016

Iridium(III) complexes bearing chiral ligands have proved to be active species in asymmetric hydrogenation of C=N bonds, though there are only a few iridium(III) precursors. We prepared triply halide‐bridged dinuclear iridium complexes bearing chiral diphosphine ligands by simple treatment of the iridium(I) precursor, chiral diphosphine, and aqueous hydrogen halide. The strong advantage of these dinuclear iridium complexes is that they are air and moisture stable, leading to easy handling in asymmetric synthesis. The dinuclear iridium complexes exhibited high catalytic activity toward asymmetric hydrogenation of imines and N‐heteroaromatics. Moreover, we demonstrated the application of triply halide‐bridged dinuclear ruthenium(II) and rhodium(III) catalyst precursors for the asymmetric hydrogenation of ketonic substrates and simple olefins, respectively.

image
Optimal reaction coordinates
Authors: Banushkina Polina V. , Krivov Sergei V.
Published: August 2016

The dynamic behavior of complex systems with many degrees of freedom is often analyzed by projection onto one or a few reaction coordinates. The dynamics is then described in a simple and intuitive way as diffusion on the associated free‐energy profile. In order to use such a picture for a quantitative description of the dynamics one needs to select the coordinate in an optimal way so as to minimize non‐Markovian effects due to the projection. For equilibrium dynamics between two boundary states (e.g., a reaction), the optimal coordinate is known as the committor or the pfold coordinate in protein folding studies. While the dynamics projected on the committor is not Markovian, many important quantities of the original multidimensional dynamics on an arbitrarily complex landscape can be computed exactly. In this study, we summarize the derivation of this result, discuss different approaches to determine and validate the committor coordinate, and present three illustrative applications: protein folding, the game of chess, and patient recovery dynamics after kidney transplant.WIREs Comput Mol Sci2016, 6:748–763. doi: 10.1002/wcms.1276

This article is categorized under:

Structure and Mechanism > Computational Biochemistry and Biophysics

Theoretical and Physical Chemistry > Reaction Dynamics and Kinetics

Theoretical and Physical Chemistry > Statistical Mechanics
The costs and benefits of brain dopamine for cognitive control
Authors: Cools Roshan
Published: August 2016

Cognitive control helps us attain our goals by resisting distraction and temptations. Dopaminergic drugs are well known to enhance cognitive control. However, there is great variability in the effects of dopaminergic drugs across different contexts, with beneficial effects on some tasks but detrimental effects on other tasks. The mechanisms underlying this variability across cognitive task demands remain unclear. I aim to elucidate this across‐task variability in dopaminergic drug efficacy by going beyond classic models that emphasize the importance of dopamine in the prefrontal cortex for cognitive control and working memory. To this end, I build on recent advances in cognitive neuroscience that highlight a role for dopamine in cost–benefit decision making. Specifically, I reconceptualize cognitive control as involving not just prefrontal dopamine but also modulation of cost–benefit decision making by striatal dopamine. This approach will help us understand why we sometimes fail to (choose to) exert cognitive control while also identifying mechanistic factors that predict dopaminergic drug effects on cognitive control. WIREs Cogn Sci 2016, 7:317–329. doi: 10.1002/wcs.1401

This article is categorized under:

Neuroscience > Cognition
ASD Validity
Authors: Waterhouse Lynn , London Eric , Gillberg Christopher
Published: August 2016

ASD research is at an important crossroads. The ASD diagnosis is important for assigning a child to early behavioral intervention and explaining a child’s condition. But ASD research has not provided a diagnosis-specific medical treatment, or a consistent early predictor, or a unified life course. If the ASD diagnosis also lacks biological and construct validity, a shift away from studying ASD-defined samples would be warranted. Consequently, this paper reviews recent findings for the neurobiological validity of ASD, the construct validity of ASD diagnostic criteria, and the construct validity of ASD spectrum features. The findings reviewed indicate that the ASD diagnosis lacks biological and construct validity. The paper concludes with proposals for research going forward.
Mild cognitive impairment and risk of depression and anxiety: A population‐based study
Authors: Mirza Saira Saeed , Ikram M. Arfan , Bos Daniel , Mihaescu Raluca , Hofman Albert , Tiemeier Henning
Published: August 2016

Introduction

Many people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) suffer from concomitant depression or anxiety. Whether MCI increases the risk of future depression or anxiety is unknown.

Methods

In the Rotterdam Study, cross‐sectional (n = 4168) and longitudinal associations (n = 2967) of MCI with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders—depressive and anxiety disorders—were assessed (2002–2005 to 2009–2011).

Results

At baseline, 413 persons had MCI; 125 (22 MCI and 103 non‐MCI) had a depressive disorder and 330 had an anxiety disorder (46 MCI and 284 non‐MCI). In longitudinal depression analysis, of the 212 persons with prevalent MCI, 6 (2.8%) developed depression compared with 29 (1%) in the nonexposed group. In longitudinal anxiety analysis, 11 (7.3%) of the 151 with prevalent MCI developed anxiety, compared with 75 (3.4%) in nonexposed group. Persons with MCI had more depressive and anxiety disorders and also a higher risk of developing depressive disorder, odds ratio (OR) 3.13 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.26, 7.77), and anxiety disorder, OR 2.59 (95% CI: 1.31, 5.12).

Discussion

MCI is a risk factor for dementia and for depressive and anxiety disorders, suggesting common pathological pathways for cognitive and psychiatric outcomes.
Alzheimer's disease‐associated TREM2 variants exhibit either decreased or increased ligand‐dependent activation
Authors: Song Wilbur , Hooli Basavaraj , Mullin Kristina , Jin Sheng Chih , Cella Marina , Ulland Tyler K. , Wang Yaming , Tanzi Rudolph E. , Colonna Marco
Published: August 2016

Introduction

TREM2 is a lipid‐sensing activating receptor on microglia known to be important for Alzheimer's disease (AD), but whether it plays a beneficial or detrimental role in disease pathogenesis is controversial.

Methods

We analyzed AD risk of TREM2 variants in the NIMH AD Genetics Initiative Study and AD Sequencing Project. We compared each variant's risk and functional impact by a reporter assay. Finally, we analyzed expression of TREM2 on human monocytes.

Results

We provide more evidence for increased AD risk associated with several TREM2 variants, and show that these variants decreased or markedly increased binding to TREM2 ligands. We identify HDL and LDL as novel TREM2 ligands. We also show that TREM2 expression in human monocytes is minimal compared to monocyte‐derived dendritic cells.

Discussion

Our results suggest that TREM2 signaling helps protect against AD but can cause harm in excess, supporting the idea that proper TREM2 function is important to counteract disease progression.
Constructs of health belief and disabling distal upper limb pain
Authors: Whibley Daniel , MacDonald Ross , Macfarlane Gary J. , Jones Gareth T.
Published: August 2016

Background

Musculoskeletal pain in the distal upper limb is common and is a cause of disability and healthcare consultation. At the time of presentation individuals reporting similar pain severities may report different levels of related disability. The biopsychosocial model proposes that health beliefs may help explain this difference. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to identify underlying constructs of health belief in those referred to physiotherapy with pain in the distal upper limb and investigate whether these constructs moderated the relationship between pain severity and extent of disability.

Method

Health beliefs were assessed using an instrument included in a questionnaire completed before randomisation to the Arm Pain Trial (ISRCTN79085082). Ordinal responses to statements about health beliefs were used to generate a polychoric correlation matrix. The output from this matrix was then used for Exploratory Factor Analysis to determine underlying constructs. The moderating influence of the identified health belief constructs was then tested using interaction terms in linear regression models.

Results

476 trial participants contributed data, age range 18–85 (mean 48.8, SD 13.7), 54% female. Five health belief constructs were identified: beliefs about hereditary factors, beliefs about movement and pain, beliefs about locus of control, beliefs about the role of lifecourse/lifestyle factors, and beliefs about prognosis. The only health belief construct found to moderate the pain-disability relationship was beliefs about prognosis, with greater pessimism resulting in higher levels of disability at mild-to-moderate levels of pain severity (B –0.17,95% CI –0.30, –0.036).

Conclusion

This exploratory cross-sectional study identified five constructs of health belief from responses to a previously used set of statements investigating fear avoidance and illness beliefs in a clinical population with pain in the distal upper limb. Of these constructs, beliefs about prognosis were found to moderate the relationship between pain and disability.

Implications

At the time of referral to physiotherapy it may be beneficial to assess patients’ perception of prognosis. For those with higher than expected disability for the presenting level of pain, and pessimism about prognosis, focused reassurance may play an important part in initial consultation. Longitudinal study is required to support the findings from this study and investigate whether a causal relationship exists. Future investigations should confirm the health belief constructs proposed.
Orientation
Authors: Somerville Boyle
Published: August 2016

The term “Orientation,” as applied to a structure of any kind, means the direction in which its principal line is laid out on the ground. Originally, as the word implies, orientation signified “eastwardness,” only, and had special reference to churches, because (in western Europe) practically all churches were built with the longer side laid out in an east-and-west direction. In some, the line is to True East, exactly; in others the axis lies at an angle of some degrees either to the northward or to the southward of True East. This divergence in either direction from the Orient is called “the angle of orientation.” Nowadays, the term “Orientation” has lost its original “Eastward” distinctiveness, and has become a general expression merely indicating “direction,” and may imply any point of the horizon, and not necessarily the eastward.

Originally the angle of orientation was measured from True East as a zero, but now it is reckoned from the Meridian, or North (true).
Place-names and Archæology
Authors: Mawer A.
Published: August 2016

Three years ago, when the Survey of English Place-names was initiated, the present editor of ANTIQUITY wrote an article for the opening volume of the Survey publications with the above title. In it he attempted to show how fruitful might be the mutual relations of place-names and archaeological studies. The Survey is now well under way. It has completed its work in four counties—Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, Huntingdonshire and Worcestershire (shortly to be published) and the time seems not inappropriate to take stock of some of the results achieved in this particular field of studies.
Stonehenge
Authors: Newall R. S.
Published: August 2016

John webb, in his preface to Inigo Jones's posthumously published Stonehenge, in 1655 says : ‘This discourse of Stonehenge is moulded off and cast into a rude Form, from some few indigested notes after the late judicious Architect, the Vitruvius of his Age, Inigo Jones’. Upon these notes, Webb undoubtedly dined not wisely but too well and I trust I shall not be accused of doing the same with Colonel Hawley's many and well digested notes. I have one advantage over Webb in that I have seen Stonehenge, and I very much doubt whether he had.

In describing the stones, I shall begin at the centre and work outwards, taking as centre the point where a line drawn from stone 91 just inside the bank to stone 93, and a line from hole 92 in the middle of the supposed barrow to hole 94 in a similar barrow in the NW quadrant, cut each other and the axis of Stonehenge. It is from this point as centre that all the black circles on the plan are drawn. The axis is a line through the centre, which divides the stones and earthworks into two equal parts.