bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of preference mapping methods: a case study on flavored kefirs
Authors: Gere Attila , Kovács Sándor , Pásztor‐Huszár Klára , Kókai Zoltán , Sipos László
Published: January 2014

The following preference mapping methods applied in sensory analysis were compared with the generally used internal preference mapping method (MDPREF): categorical principal component analysis (CATPCA), correspondence analysis (CAN), and penalty analysis (PAN). The aims, criteria, advantages, and disadvantages of the different methods are shown on the example of flavored kefir products. The pair correlation method (a robust variable selector method) has been applied for sensory data for the first time. It was also used for assessing the importance of “just about right” attributes of kefir products at first. The method is fast and easy to interpret and helps to identify product attributes having the highest impact on overall liking. Overall liking of the products was influenced mostly by the kefir flavor and fruit flavor intensity. Key factors when creating consumer questionnaires are simplicity, briefness, and comprehensibility. Instead of the long, one‐by‐one evaluation of the products, the consumers need to answer a simple ranking question. For such data, CATPCA produced very similar results to MDPREF. PAN gave more sensitive results about product discrimination compared with the MDPREF. A new way of applying CAN is the evaluation of a blind identification test. Results showed that two levels of flavoring could not be differentiated using MDPREF, CATPCA, and CAN, but PAN and pair correlation method reveals the differences. The first three methods are good choice for uncovering consumers' preference, while the last two are highly important for product developers. Combination of the proposed methodologies helps to uncover a higher degree of information in product development of flavored kefir products. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Copper‐Catalyzed Cascade Cyclization Reaction of 2‐Haloaryltriazenes and Sodium Azide: Selective Synthesis of 2 H‐Benzotriazoles in Water
Authors: Shang Xiaobo , Zhao Shixian , Chen Wanzhi , Chen Chao , Qiu Huayu
Published: January 2014

A new approach to the synthesis of 2 H‐benzotriazoles is described. This strategy is based on the copper‐catalyzed CN coupling of 2‐haloaryltriazenes or 2‐haloazo compounds with sodium azide and the intramolecular addition of nitrene to NN bonds. This approach allows the synthesis of various N‐amino‐ and N‐aryl‐2 H‐benzotriazoles in water, in good to excellent yields. The procedure is simple and the starting materials and catalyst are easily available, offering a practical and convenient synthetic route to 2‐substituted benzotriazoles.
Insertion of a Single‐Molecule Magnet inside a Ferromagnetic Lattice Based on a 3D Bimetallic Oxalate Network: Towards Molecular Analogues of Permanent Magnets
Authors: Clemente‐León Miguel , Coronado Eugenio , Gómez‐García Carlos J. , López‐Jordà Maurici , Camón Agustín , Repollés Ana , Luis Fernando
Published: January 2014

Invited for the cover of this issue are the groups of Eugenio Coronado at the Universidad de Valencia and Fernando Luis at the CSIC‐Universidad de Zaragoza. The image depicts a hybrid crystalline lattice formed by an anisotropic single‐molecule magnet. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.201303044.
Mind the Methyl: Methyllysine Binding Proteins in Epigenetic Regulation
Authors: Wagner Tobias , Robaa Dina , Sippl Wolfgang , Jung Manfred
Published: January 2014

Epigenetics is defined as the phenomenon of heritable phenotypic traits that are not governed by alteration of the genetic code. Major epigenetic control mechanisms include DNA methylation and post‐translational modifications of histones, such as reversible histone acetylation and methylation of lysine residues. Methyllysine binding proteins recognize various levels of lysine methylation and mediate the signaling events that are induced by histone methylation. Therefore, they are also referred to as readers of the epigenetic code. In this article we review the current literature on the structure and biology of methyllysine binding proteins, especially with regard to their potential as drug targets. We also present the available inhibitors that block the interaction of methylated histones with their binding proteins.
Anomalously Enhanced Hydration of Aqueous Electrolyte Solution in Hydrophobic Carbon Nanotubes to Maintain Stability
Authors: Ohba Tomonori
Published: January 2014

An understanding of the structure and behavior of electrolyte solutions in nanoenvironements is crucial not only for a wide variety of applications, but also for the development of physical, chemical, and biological processes. We demonstrate the structure and stability of electrolyte in carbon nanotubes using hybrid reverse Monte Carlo simulations of X‐ray diffraction patterns. Hydrogen bonds between water are adequately formed in carbon nanotubes, although some hydrogen bonds are restricted by the interfaces of carbon nanotubes. The hydrogen bonding network of water in electrolyte in the carbon nanotubes is further weakened. On the other hand, formation of the ion hydration shell is significantly enhanced in the electrolyte in the carbon nanotubes in comparison to ion hydration in bulk electrolyte. The significant hydrogen bond and hydration shell formation are a result of gaining stability in the hydrophobic nanoenvironment.
Synthesis of Carbon Materials–TiO2 Hybrid Nanostructures and Their Visible‐Light Photo‐catalytic Activity
Authors: Li Qian , Bian Juncao , Zhang Li , Zhang Ruiqin , Wang Guozhong , Ng Dickon H. L.
Published: January 2014

Activated carbon, graphene, carbon nanotubes and fullerene were incorporated into TiO2 by a solvothermal approach and thermal annealing to produce carbon materials–TiO2 hybrid nanostructures. The carbon materials–TiO2 products were characterised by using SEM, TEM, XRD, Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray photo‐electron spectroscopy, UV‐visible spectroscopy and photo‐luminescence. The aim was to study the interactions between the main TiO2 phase and the carbon components, and the relationships between morphology, structure and photo‐degradation of the rhodamine B (RhB) dye. An enhanced photo‐catalytic degradation of RhB was achieved when using these nanocomposites over that for only using pure TiO2. The superiority in photo‐catalytic activities on the RhB molecules resulted from contributions from the excellent adsorption property, favourable chemical bond formation (TiOC), narrower band gap, smaller particle size and effective charge‐carrier separation of the nanocomposites. Compared with the graphene–, carbon nanotube– and fullerene–TiO2 products, activated carbon–TiO2 exhibited weaker interactions between carbon and titania, lower adsorption for RhB and a larger band gap, which led to lower photo‐catalytic activity of RhB.
Mechanisms for Enhanced Performance of Platinum‐Based Electrocatalysts in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Su Liang , Jia Wenzhao , Li Chang‐Ming , Lei Yu
Published: January 2014

As a new generation of power sources, fuel cells have shown great promise for application in transportation. However, the expensive catalyst materials, especially the cathode catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), severely limit the widespread commercialization of fuel cells. Therefore, this review article focuses on platinum (Pt)‐based electrocatalysts for ORR with better catalytic performance and lower cost. Major breakthroughs in the improvement of activity and durability of electrocatalysts are discussed. Specifically, on one hand, the enhanced activity of Pt has been achieved through crystallographic control, ligand effect, or geometric effect; on the other hand, improved durability of Pt‐based cathode catalysts has been realized by means of the incorporation of another noble metal or the morphological control of nanostructures. Furthermore, based on these improvement mechanisms, rationally designed Pt‐based nanoparticles are summarized in terms of different synthetic strategies such as wet‐chemical synthesis, Pt‐skin catalysts, electrochemically dealloyed nanomaterials, and Pt‐monolayer deposition. These nanoparticulate electrocatalysts show greatly enhanced catalytic performance towards ORR, aiming not only to outperform the commercial Pt/C, but also to exceed the US Department of Energy 2015 technical target ($30/kW and 5000 h).
Rhenium Complexes with Red‐Light‐Induced Anticancer Activity
Authors: Wähler Kathrin , Ludewig Anja , Szabo Patrick , Harms Klaus , Meggers Eric
Published: January 2014

Rhenium(I) pyridocarbazole complexes with photoinduced antiproliferative activity are reported. The substitutionally inert complexes induce cell death by singlet oxygen generation upon irradiation with red light (λ ≥ 620 nm), whereas only weak background cytotoxicity is observed in the dark. Owing to their ability to inhibit protein kinases (nanomolar IC50 values against Pim1 at 10 μM ATP), this class of rhenium complexes point in the direction of dual function antiproliferative therapy with a single drug in which photodynamic therapy is combined with the inhibition of cancer‐related protein kinases.
Stable neutral double hydrophilic block copolymer capillary coating for capillary electrophoretic separations
Authors: Lipponen Katriina , Tähkä Sari , Kostiainen Mauri , Riekkola Marja‐Liisa
Published: January 2014

Quaternized diblock copolymer, poly(N‐methyl‐2‐vinylpyridinium iodide‐block‐ethylene oxide), was successfully used as a neutral, dynamic coating to suppress the electroosmotic flow. The block copolymer consisted of two polymers that were linked covalently together. The cationic block (poly(N‐methyl‐2‐vinylpyridinium iodide)) was bound efficiently to the negatively charged capillary wall via electrostatic interactions, and the hydrophilic block (ethylene oxide) stabilized the system and created a neutral capillary surface with ultralow electroosmotic flow (+2.0 ± 4.5 × 10−10 m2/Vs). The main advantages of the coating were simple and fast preparation, easy regeneration and automation, and stable electroosmotic flow. To emphasize the potential of this type of coating its stability was measured at a wide pH range demonstrating a high stability in the pH range of 4.0–10.5 and lifetime up to 8 days. The successful studies carried out with beta‐blockers, basic proteins, and lipoproteins proved the suitability of the coating for the separation of different sized analytes. Furthermore, the neutral coating developed is useful in a wide range of protein analysis and biological interaction studies under physiological condition.
Peptidomic study of Spanish blue cheese (Valdeón) and changes after simulated gastrointestinal digestion
Authors: Sánchez‐Rivera Laura , Diezhandino Isabel , Gómez‐Ruiz José Ángel , Fresno José María , Miralles Beatriz , Recio Isidra
Published: January 2014

It is increasingly evident that digestion can affect the biological activity of cheese by the release of new active peptides from their precursors or, on the contrary, giving rise to fragments without activity. The characterization of the peptidome of a Spanish blue cheese, Valdeón, has been conducted before and after gastrointestinal digestion, and the digests have been compared to those obtained from pasteurized skimmed milk powder (SMP) using a bioinformatics platform. Peptidomic profiling of digests revealed several regions that are especially resistant to digestion (among them β‐casein 60–93, 128–140, and 193–209). Some of them correspond to well‐conserved regions between species (human, cow, sheep, and goat) and include peptide sequences with reported bioactivity. The great peptide homology found between both digests, cheese and SMP, suggests that the gastrointestinal digestion could bring closer the profile of products with different proteolytic state. Although most of the biologically active peptides found in cheese after digestion were also present in SMP digest, there were some exceptions that can be attributed to the absence of the relevant precursor peptide before digestion.
Use of protein profiles established by CZE to predict the cultivar of olive leaves and pulps
Authors: Vergara‐Barberán María , Lerma‐García María Jesús , Herrero‐Martínez José Manuel , Simó‐Alfonso Ernesto Francisco
Published: January 2014

Intact protein profiles established by CZE have been used to predict the cultivar of olive leaves and pulps. For this purpose, proteins were extracted using a mild enzyme‐assisted extraction method, which provided higher protein recoveries and a lower environmental impact than other previously described methods. These extracts were subjected to CZE determination under basic conditions using a BGE composed of 50 mM phosphate, 50 mM tetraborate and 0.1% PVA at pH 9. Nine and 14 common peaks, for leaf and pulp samples, respectively, were identified in the nine cultivars studied in this work. In addition, and using linear discriminant analysis of the CZE data, olive leaf and pulp samples belonging to nine cultivars from different Spanish regions were correctly classified with an excellent resolution among all categories, which demonstrated that intact protein profiles are characteristic of each cultivar.
Assessment of adulteration of soybean proteins in dairy products by 2D microchip‐CE device
Authors: Wu Ruige , Wang Zhiping , Fung Ying Sing , Peng Seah Daphne Yen , Yeung William Shu‐Biu
Published: January 2014

To determine the adulteration of soybean proteins in dairy product, a microchip‐CE device was developed to isolate selected fraction of soybean and milk proteins in pI range from 5.5∼7.0 by 1D IEF, followed by ITP/CZE in the embedded capillary for preconcentration, separation and UV detection at 280 nm. Compared to IEF‐CZE without ITP preconcentration, the enhancement factor (EF) in detection of soybean proteins was 20 times. Adulteration of 0.1% soybean protein in total dairy proteins can be detected in less than 10 min.
Chip electrophoresis as a novel approach to measure the polyphenols reactivity toward human saliva
Authors: Rinaldi Alessandra , Iturmendi Néréa , Gambuti Angelita , Jourdes Michael , Teissedre Pierre‐Louis , Moio Luigi
Published: January 2014

Saliva is a biological fluid with a multifunctional role that makes it interesting in terms of research and diagnostic possibilities. In food research, human saliva represented a useful tool by which we measure the tactile sensation elicited by polyphenol‐rich beverages called astringency. A method based on SDS‐PAGE analysis of saliva before and after the binding reaction with wine polyphenols has been successfully used in previous studies for measuring wine astringency by means of the saliva precipitation index. In this work, chip electrophoresis was used alternatively to SDS‐PAGE and results were compared. Chip electrophoresis provides a very good reproducibility for wine and grape astringency. Moreover, this approach is much faster than the conventional SDS‐PAGE method requiring several hours for an analysis. Another advantage over traditional gel is lower sample and reagent volume requirements, as well as the lower and less toxic wastes, contributing benefits to health and environment. The application of this novel method allowed, using the principal component analysis, to distinguish grapes and wines according to the saliva precipitation index and structural characteristics determined by the phoroglucinolysis analysis.
Prostaglandin E2 promotes post‐infarction cardiomyocyte replenishment by endogenous stem cells
Authors: Hsueh Ying‐Chang , Wu Jasmine M F , Yu Chun‐Keung , Wu Kenneth K , Hsieh Patrick C H
Published: January 2014

Although self‐renewal ability of adult mammalian heart has been reported, few pharmacological treatments are known to promote cardiomyocyte regeneration after injury. In this study, we demonstrate that the critical period of stem/progenitor cell‐mediated cardiomyocyte replenishment is initiated within 7 days and saturates on day 10 post‐infarction. Moreover, blocking the inflammatory reaction with COX‐2 inhibitors may also reduce the capability of endogenous stem/progenitor cells to repopulate lost cells. Injection of the COX‐2 product PGE2 enhances cardiomyocyte replenishment in young mice and recovers cell renewal through attenuating TGF‐β1 signaling in aged mice. Further analyses suggest that cardiac stem cells are PGE2‐responsive and that PGE2 may regulate stem cell activity directly through the EP2 receptor or indirectly by modulating its micro‐environment in vivo. Our findings provide evidence that PGE2 holds great potential for cardiac regeneration.
Seismic shear distribution among interconnected cantilever walls of different lengths
Authors: Beyer Katrin , Simonini Sabrina , Constantin Raluca , Rutenberg Avigdor
Published: January 2014

Mid‐rise to high‐rise buildings in seismic areas are often braced by slender reinforced concrete (RC) walls, which are interconnected by RC floor diaphragms. In design, it is typically assumed that the lateral forces are distributed in proportion to the wall's elastic stiffness. Pushover analyses of systems comprising walls of different lengths have, however, shown that large compatibility forces can develop between them, which should be considered in design, but the analyses have also shown that the magnitude of the computed forces is very sensitive to the modelling assumptions. Using the results of a complex shell element model as benchmark, different simple hand‐calculation methods and inelastic beam element models are assessed and improved to yield reliable estimates of the base shear distribution among the individual walls comprising the interconnected wall system. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rice antioxidants: phenolic acids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, proanthocyanidins, tocopherols, tocotrienols, γ‐oryzanol, and phytic acid
Authors: Goufo Piebiep , Trindade Henrique
Published: January 2014

Epidemiological studies suggested that the low incidence of certain chronic diseases in rice‐consuming regions of the world might be associated with the antioxidant compound contents of rice. The molecules with antioxidant activity contained in rice include phenolic acids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, proanthocyanidins, tocopherols, tocotrienols, γ‐oryzanol, and phytic acid. This review provides information on the contents of these compounds in rice using a food composition database built from compiling data from 316 papers. The database provides access to information that would have otherwise remained hidden in the literature. For example, among the four types of rice ranked by color, black rice varieties emerged as those exhibiting the highest antioxidant activities, followed by purple, red, and brown rice varieties. Furthermore, insoluble compounds appear to constitute the major fraction of phenolic acids and proanthocyanidins in rice, but not of flavonoids and anthocyanins. It is clear that to maximize the intake of antioxidant compounds, rice should be preferentially consumed in the form of bran or as whole grain. With respect to breeding, japonica rice varieties were found to be richer in antioxidant compounds compared with indica rice varieties. Overall, rice grain fractions appear to be rich sources of antioxidant compounds. However, on a whole grain basis and with the exception of γ‐oryzanol and anthocyanins, the contents of antioxidants in other cereals appear to be higher than those in rice.
Genome‐wide analysis of esophageal adenocarcinoma yields specific copy number aberrations that correlate with prognosis
Authors: Frankel Adam , Armour Nicola , Nancarrow Derek , Krause Lutz , Hayward Nicholas , Lampe Guy , Smithers B. Mark , Barbour Andrew
Published: January 2014

The incidence of esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) has been increasing rapidly for the past 3 decades in Western (Caucasian) populations. Curative treatment is based around esophagectomy, which has a major impact on quality of life. For those suitable for treatment with curative intent, 5‐year survival is ∼30%. More accurate prognostic tools are therefore needed, and copy number aberrations (CNAs) may offer the ability to act as prospective biomarkers in this regard. We performed a genome‐wide examination of CNAs in 54 samples of EAC using single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays. Our aims were to describe frequent regions of CNA, to define driver CNAs, and to identify CNAs that correlated with survival. Regions of frequent amplification included oncogenes such as EGFR, MYC, KLF12, and ERBB2, while frequently deleted regions included tumor suppressor genes such as CDKN2A/B, PTPRD, FHIT, and SMAD4. The genomic identification of significant targets in cancer (GISTIC) algorithm identified 24 regions of gain and 28 regions of loss that were likely to contain driver changes. We discovered 61 genes in five regions that, when stratified by CNA type (gain or loss), correlated with a statistically significant difference in survival. Pathway analysis of the genes residing in both the GISTIC and prognostic regions showed they were significantly enriched for cancer‐related networks. Finally, we discovered that copy‐neutral loss of heterozygosity is a frequent mechanism of CNA in genes currently targetable by chemotherapy, potentially leading to under‐reporting of cases suitable for such treatment. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Acute hepatitis C: A 24-week course of pegylated interferon alpha-2b versus a 12-week course of pegylated interferon alpha-2b alone or with ribavirin
Authors: Santantonio Teresa , Fasano Massimo , Sagnelli Evangelista , Tundo Paolo , Babudieri Sergio , Fabris Paolo , Toti Mario , Di Perri Giovanni , Marino Nicoletta , Pizzigallo Eligio , Angarano Gioacchino
Published: January 2014

Therapy of acute hepatitis C (AHC) has not yet been standardized and several issues are still unresolved. This open, randomized, multicenter trial aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of a 24-week course of pegylated IFN (Peg-IFN) alpha-2b versus a 12-week course of Peg-IFN alpha-2b alone or with ribavirin (RBV) in AHC patients. One hundred and thirty HCV acutely infected patients who did not spontaneously resolve by week 12 after onset were consecutively enrolled and randomized to receive Peg-IFN alpha-2b monotherapy (1.5 μg/kg/week) for 24 or 12 weeks (arm 1, n = 44 and arm 2, n = 43, respectively) or in combination with RBV (10.6 mg/kg/day) for 12 weeks (arm 3, n = 43). The primary endpoint was undetectable HCV RNA at 6-month posttreatment follow-up (sustained virological response; SVR). All patients were followed for 48 weeks after therapy cessation. HCV RNA levels were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction (limit of detection: 15 IU/mL) at the central laboratory at baseline, week 4, end of treatment, and 6 and 12 months posttreatment. Using an intent-to-treat analysis, overall SVR rate was 71.5%. In particular, an SVR was achieved in 31 of 44 (70.5%), 31 of 43 (72.1%), and 31 of 43 (72.1%) patients in arms 1, 2, and 3, respectively (P = 0.898). Sixteen patients (12.3%) prematurely discontinued therapy or were lost to follow-up; thus, sustained response rates with per-protocol analysis were 81.6%, 81.6%, and 81.6% for patients in arms 1, 2, and 3 respectively. With multivariate analysis, virologic response at week 4 of treatment was an independent predictor of SVR. Peg-IFN alpha-2b was well tolerated. Conclusion: Peg-IFN alpha-2b induces a high SVR in chronically evolving AHC patients. Response rates were not influenced by combination therapy or treatment duration. (Hepatology 2014;59:2101-2109)
CLOCK/BMAL1 regulates circadian change of mouse hepatic insulin sensitivity by SIRT1
Authors: Zhou Ben , Zhang Yi , Zhang Fang , Xia Yulei , Liu Jun , Huang Rui , Wang Yuangao , Hu Yanan , Wu Jingxia , Dai Changgui , Wang Hui , Tu Yanyang , Peng Xiaozhong , Wang Yiqian , Zhai Qiwei
Published: January 2014

The protein deacetylase, sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), involved in regulating hepatic insulin sensitivity, shows circadian oscillation and regulates the circadian clock. Recent studies show that circadian misalignment leads to insulin resistance (IR); however, the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. Here, we show that CLOCK and brain and muscle ARNT-like protein 1 (BMAL1), two core circadian transcription factors, are correlated with hepatic insulin sensitivity. Knockdown of CLOCK or BMAL1 induces hepatic IR, whereas their ectopic expression attenuates hepatic IR. Moreover, circadian change of insulin sensitivity is impaired in Clock mutant, liver-specific Bmal1 knockout (KO) or Sirt1 KO mice, and CLOCK and BMAL1 are required for hepatic circadian expression of SIRT1. Further studies show that CLOCK/BMAL1 binds to the SIRT1 promoter to enhance its expression and regulates hepatic insulin sensitivity by SIRT1. In addition, constant darkness-induced circadian misalignment in mice decreases hepatic BMAL1 and SIRT1 levels and induces IR, which can be dramatically reversed by resveratrol. Conclusion: These findings offer new insights for coordination of the circadian clock and metabolism in hepatocytes by circadian regulation of hepatic insulin sensitivity via CLOCK/BMAL1-dependent SIRT1 expression and provide a potential application of resveratrol for combating circadian misalignment-induced metabolic disorders. (Hepatology 2014;59:2196–2206)
Inflammatory and metabolic biomarkers and risk of liver and biliary tract cancer
Authors: Aleksandrova Krasimira , Boeing Heiner , Nöthlings Ute , Jenab Mazda , Fedirko Veronika , Kaaks Rudolf , Lukanova Annekatrin , Trichopoulou Antonia , Trichopoulos Dimitrios , Boffetta Paolo , Trepo Elisabeth , Westhpal Sabine , Duarte-Salles Talita , Stepien Magdalena , Overvad Kim , Tjφnneland Anne , Halkjær Jytte , Boutron-Ruault Marie-Christine , Dossus Laure , Racine Antoine , Lagiou Pagona , Bamia Christina , Benetou Vassiliki , Agnoli Claudia , Palli Domenico , Panico Salvatore , Tumino Rosario , Vineis Paolo , Bueno-de-Mesquita Bas , Peeters Petra H. , Gram Inger Torhild , Lund Eiliv , Weiderpass Elisabete , Quirós Ramón J. , Agudo Antonio , Sánchez María-José , Gavrila Diana , Barricarte Aurelio , Dorronsoro Miren , Ohlsson Bodil , Lindkvist Björn , Johansson Anders , Sund Malin , Khaw Kay-Tee , Wareham Nicholas , Travis Ruth C. , Riboli Elio , Pischon Tobias
Published: January 2014

Obesity and associated metabolic disorders have been implicated in liver carcinogenesis; however, there are little data on the role of obesity-related biomarkers on liver cancer risk. We studied prospectively the association of inflammatory and metabolic biomarkers with risks of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), intrahepatic bile duct (IBD), and gallbladder and biliary tract cancers outside of the liver (GBTC) in a nested case-control study within the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition. Over an average of 7.7 years, 296 participants developed HCC (n = 125), GBTC (n = 137), or IBD (n = 34). Using risk-set sampling, controls were selected in a 2:1 ratio and matched for recruitment center, age, sex, fasting status, and time of blood collection. Baseline serum concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-peptide, total high-molecular-weight (HMW) adiponectin, leptin, fetuin-a, and glutamatdehydrogenase (GLDH) were measured, and incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using conditional logistic regression. After adjustment for lifestyle factors, diabetes, hepatitis infection, and adiposity measures, higher concentrations of CRP, IL-6, C-peptide, and non-HMW adiponectin were associated with higher risk of HCC (IRR per doubling of concentrations = 1.22; 95% CI = 1.02-1.46; P = 0.03; 1.90; 95% CI = 1.30-2.77; P = 0.001; 2.25; 95% CI = 1.43-3.54; P = 0.0005; and 2.09; 95% CI = 1.19-3.67; P = 0.01, respectively). CRP was associated also with risk of GBTC (IRR = 1.22; 95% CI = 1.05-1.42; P = 0.01). GLDH was associated with risks of HCC (IRR = 1.62; 95% CI = 1.25-2.11; P = 0.0003) and IBD (IRR = 10.5; 95% CI = 2.20-50.90; P = 0.003). The continuous net reclassification index was 0.63 for CRP, IL-6, C-peptide, and non-HMW adiponectin and 0.46 for GLDH, indicating good predictive ability of these biomarkers. Conclusion: Elevated levels of biomarkers of inflammation and hyperinsulinemia are associated with a higher risk of HCC, independent of obesity and established liver cancer risk factors. (Hepatology 2014;60:858–871)
Transcriptional profiling of pure fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma reveals an endocrine signature
Authors: Malouf Gabriel G. , Job Sylvie , Paradis Valérie , Fabre Monique , Brugières Laurence , Saintigny Pierre , Vescovo Laure , Belghiti Jacques , Branchereau Sophie , Faivre Sandrine , de Reyniès Aurélien , Raymond Eric
Published: January 2014

Fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma (FLC) is a rare subtype of liver cancer occurring mostly in children and young adults. We have shown that FLC comprises two separate entities: pure (p-FLC) and mixed-FLC (m-FLC), differing in clinical presentation and course. We show that p-FLCs have a distinct gene expression signature different from that of m-FLCs, which have a signature similar to that of classical hepatocellular carcinomas. We found p-FLC profiles to be unique among 263 profiles related to diverse tumoral and nontumoral liver samples. We identified two distinct molecular subgroups of p-FLCs with different outcomes. Pathway analysis of p-FLCs revealed ERBB2 overexpression and an up-regulation of glycolysis, possibly leading to compensatory mitochondrial hyperplasia and oncocytic differentiation. Four of the sixteen genes most significantly overexpressed in p-FLCs were neuroendocrine genes: prohormone convertase 1 (PCSK1); neurotensin; delta/notch-like EGF repeat containing; and calcitonin. PCSK1 overexpression was validated by immunohistochemistry, yielding specific, diffuse staining of the protein throughout the cytoplasm, possibly corresponding to a functional form of this convertase. Conclusion: p-FLCs have a unique transcriptomic signature characterized by the strong expression of specific neuroendocrine genes, suggesting that these tumors may have a cellular origin different from that of HCC. Our data have implications for the use of genomic profiling for diagnosis and selection of targeted therapies in patients with p-FLC. (Hepatology 2014;59:2228–2237)
NF-E2-related factor 2 promotes compensatory liver hypertrophy after portal vein branch ligation in mice
Authors: Shirasaki Keiichi , Taguchi Keiko , Unno Michiaki , Motohashi Hozumi , Yamamoto Masayuki
Published: January 2014

Hepatectomy is a standard therapy that allows liver cancer patients to achieve long-term survival. Preceding hepatectomy, portal vein embolization (PVE) is frequently performed to increase the remnant liver size and reduce complications. Although the clinical importance of PVE is widely accepted, molecular mechanisms by which PVE leads to compensatory hypertrophy of nonembolized lobes remain elusive. We hypothesized that NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a master regulator of cytoprotection, promotes compensatory liver hypertrophy after PVE. To address this hypothesis, we utilized three mouse lines and the portal vein branch ligation (PVBL) technique, which primarily induces the redistribution of the portal bloodstream in liver in a manner similar to PVE. PVBL was conducted in Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) conditional knockout (Keap1-CKO) mice in which Nrf2 is constitutively activated, along with Nrf2-deficient (Nrf2-KO) mice. We found that hypertrophy of nonligated lobes after PVBL was enhanced and limited in Keap1-CKO and Nrf2-KO mice, respectively, compared to wild-type mice. In Keap1-CKO mice, Nrf2 activity was increased, consistent with transient activation of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) pathway, and reactive hepatocyte proliferation was significantly prolonged after PVBL. Importantly, Nrf2 activation by a chemical inducer was also effective for enhancement of hypertrophy after PVBL. Conclusion: Nrf2 supports compensatory liver hypertrophy after PVBL. This finding is particularly intriguing, because the primary effect of PVBL is limited to the alteration of bloodstream; this effect is much milder than changes resulting from hepatectomy, in which intrahepatic bloodstream and bile production cease. Our results suggest that premedication with an Nrf2 inducer may be a promising strategy to improve the outcome of PVE; this approach expands the indication of hepatectomy to patients with poorer liver function. (Hepatology 2014;59:2371–2382)
The relationship between water loss, mechanical stress, and molecular structure of human stratum corneum ex vivo
Authors: Vyumvuhore Raoul , Tfayli Ali , Biniek Krysta , Duplan Hélène , Delalleau Alexandre , Manfait Michel , Dauskardt Reinhold , Baillet‐Guffroy Arlette
Published: January 2014

Proper hydration of the stratum corneum (SC) is important for maintaining skin's vital functions. Water loss causes development of drying stresses, which can be perceived as ‘tightness’, and plays an important role in dry skin damage processes. However, molecular structure modifications arising from water loss and the subsequent development of stress has not been established. We investigated the drying stress mechanism by studying, ex vivo, the behaviors of the SC components during water desorption from initially fully hydrated samples using Raman spectroscopy. Simultaneously, we measure the SC mechanical stress with a substrate curvature instrument.

Very good correlations of water loss to the mechanical stress of the stratum corneum were obtained, and the latter was found to depend mainly on the unbound water fraction. In addition to that, the water loss is accompanied with an increase of lipids matrix compactness characterized by lower chain freedom, while protein structure showed an increase in amount of α‐helices, a decline in α‐sheets, and an increase in folding in the tertiary structure of keratin.

The drying process of SC involves a complex interplay of water binding, molecular modifications, and mechanical stress. This article provides a better understanding of the molecular mechanism associated to SC mechanics. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH &Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Mathematical Model of Liver Regeneration in Human Live Donors
Authors: Periwal V. , Gaillard J.R. , Needleman L. , Doria C.
Published: January 2014

Liver regeneration after injury occurs in many mammals. Rat liver regenerates after partial hepatectomy over a period of 2 weeks while human liver regeneration takes several months. Notwithstanding this enormous difference in time‐scales, with new data from five human live liver transplant donors, we show that a mathematical model of rat liver regeneration can be transferred to human, with all biochemical interactions and signaling unchanged. Only six phenomenological parameters need change, and three of these parameter changes are rescalings of rate constants by the ratio of human lifespan to rat lifespan. Data from three donor subjects with approximately equal resections were used to fit the three parameters and the data from the other two donor subjects was used to independently verify the fit. J. Cell. Physiol. 229: 599–606, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
TNF‐α Upregulates Sclerostin Expression in Obese Mice Fed a High‐Fat Diet
Authors: Baek Kyunghwa , Hwang Hyo Rin , Park Hyun‐Jung , Kwon Arang , Qadir Abdul S. , Ko Seong‐Hee , Woo Kyung Mi , Ryoo Hyun‐Mo , Kim Gwan‐Shik , Baek Jeong‐Hwa
Published: January 2014

Sclerostin decreases bone mass by antagonizing the Wnt signaling pathway. We examined whether obesity‐induced bone loss is associated with the expression of sclerostin. Five‐week‐old male mice were assigned to one of two groups (n = 10 each) and fed either a control diet (10% kcal from fat; CON) or a high‐fat diet (60% kcal from fat; HF) for 12 weeks. Thex final body weight and whole body fat mass of the HF mice were higher than those of the CON mice. The distal femur cancellous bone mineral density and bone formation rate was lower in HF mice than in CON mice. The percent erosion surface was higher in the HF mice than the CON mice. The serum levels and femoral osteocytic protein expression levels of tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) were significantly higher in HF mice than in CON mice. Sclerostin mRNA levels and osteocytic sclerostin protein levels in femoral cortex were also higher in HF mice than in CON mice. Sclerostin expression in MLO‐Y4 osteocytes increased with TNF‐α treatment, and TNF‐α‐induced sclerostin expression was blocked by the inhibition of NF‐κB activation. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and a luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that NF‐κB directly binds to the NF‐κB binding elements on the mouse sost promoter and stimulates sclerostin expression. These results support a model in which, in the context of obesity or other inflammatory diseases that increase the production of TNF‐α, TNF‐α upregulates the expression of sclerostin through NF‐κB signaling pathway, thus contributing to bone loss. J. Cell. Physiol. 229: 640–650, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Estradiol administration to ovariectomized rats potentiates mephedrone‐induced disruptions of nonspatial learning
Authors: Weed Peter F. , Leonard Stuart T. , Sankaranarayanan Ananthakrishnan , Winsauer Peter J.
Published: January 2014

Mephedrone (4‐methylmethcathinone) has been found in several over‐the‐counter products that are abused by humans, but very little is known about its behavioral effects and abuse liability. The present study examined the effects of mephedrone (1–10 mg/kg) on learning in female rats, as well as its interaction with the ovarian hormone estradiol. More specifically, female rats were trained to respond under a multiple schedule of repeated acquisition and performance of response sequences and then ovariectomized. Following ovariectomy, mephedrone dose‐effect curves were obtained during periods of 17β‐estradiol administration and periods without estradiol administration. Unlike mephedrone, which was administered acutely (i.p.) before the experimental sessions, 17β‐estradiol was administered via subcutaneous Silastic capsules containing 25% 17β‐estradiol and 75% cholesterol. In general, mephedrone produced dose‐dependent rate‐decreasing and error‐increasing effects in the acquisition and performance components of the schedule in all subjects. However, when estradiol was present, three of the four rats were more sensitive to the rate‐decreasing effects of mephedrone, and all of the subjects were more sensitive to its error‐increasing effects. These data indicate that estradiol can potentiate the disruptive effects of mephedrone on both the acquisition and performance of complex behavior in female rats.
Naked eye sensing of toxic metal ions in aqueous medium using thiophene‐based ligands and its application in living cells
Authors: Udhayakumari Duraisamy , Suganya Sivalingam , Velmathi Sivan , MubarakAli Davoodbasha
Published: January 2014

Thiophene‐based diimine (R1) and monoimine (R2) were synthesized in a single step, and their cation binding affinity was tested using colorimetric and UV–vis spectral studies. R1 selectively shows a colorimetric turn‐on response for Pb2+, Hg2+ ions and colorimetric turn‐off with Sn2+ ions, and R2 shows visual response for Cu2+ and Hg2+ over other examined metal ions in aqueous medium. R1 forms 1:1 complex with Pb2+, Hg2+, and Sn2+ and exhibits fluorescence quenching, whereas R2 shows 2:1 complex with Hg2+, Cu2+ and shows fluorescence enhancement. The structural and electronic properties of the sensors and their metal complexes were also investigated using Density Functional Theory calculations. R2 was also successfully demonstrated as a fluorescent probe for detecting Cu2+ ions in living cells. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Accumulation of lipofuscin‐like pigments of walnuts (Carya cathayensis) during storage: potential roles of lipid oxidation and non‐enzymatic glycosylation
Authors: Li Wenjuan , Gao Haiyan , Fang Xiangjun , Tao Fei , Chen Hangjun , Mu Honglei , Jiang Yueming
Published: January 2014

BACKGROUND

Lipofuscin‐like pigments (LFLP) are considered a hallmark of aging. The intracellular LFLP formation rate is negatively correlated with the life expectancy of cell. In food quality, increase of LFLP not only affects the appearance but also causes loss of nutritional value.

RESULTS

The accumulation of LFLP increased during storage of all walnuts. LFLP fluorescent intensities of walnuts with 4%, 6%, 12% and 16% moisture at the end of storage were 8.1, 4.8, 4.3 and 2.8 times those at the beginning, respectively. The LFLP accumulation of walnuts with high moisture was found to be negatively correlated with soluble sugars and 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical quenching rate, but positively correlated with the content of hydroxymethylfuraldehyde (HMF). While the LFLP accumulation of walnuts with low moisture had a strong positive correlation with anisidine value, it exhibited high negative correlations with acid phosphatase activity, DPPH• quenching rate and tocopherol content.

CONCLUSION

In walnuts with low initial moisture, lipoxidation products increased markedly during storage and these products might provide the source for LFLP accumulation. On the other hand, in walnuts with high initial moisture, reducing sugars derived from the hydrolysis of soluble sugars might play an important role in initiating the Maillard‐like reaction, leading to LFLP accumulation. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Robustness of a method based on the serial coupling of reversed‐phase and zwitterionic hydrophilic interaction LC–MS for the analysis of phenols
Authors: Greco Giorgia , Grosse Sylvia , Letzel Thomas
Published: January 2014

We have recently proved that the serial coupling of RP and zwitterionic hydrophilic interaction LC with mass spectrometric detection is a versatile and reliable technique to simultaneously separate polar and apolar compounds in complex samples, for example, phenols in wine. In order to evaluate the system suitability for long‐term usage, the robustness of a method based on the serial coupling of RP and zwitterionic hydrophilic interaction LC was evaluated after one year of analyses comprising >1100 injections. The retention time and peak shape of phenol standards and phenols in a red wine were compared to the values previously published. Phenol retention times were shifted <30 s. However, the peak widths were increased, partially due to the deterioration of the stationary phases. Nevertheless, the method was still highly reliable for the analysis of phenols in wine.
Black bear use of seismic lines in Northern Canada
Authors: Tigner Jesse , Bayne Erin M , Boutin Stan
Published: January 2014

The development of hydrocarbon resources in northwestern Canada has resulted in a vast network of seismic lines. Seismic lines are a conservation concern because they are believed to alter the use of space by predators and ultimately change predator‐prey relationships. Such changes are believed to be a key factor influencing declines in boreal woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou). Using remote wildlife cameras, we measured the behavioral response of a known caribou predator, the black bear (Ursus americanus), to seismic lines at 2 spatial scales. At the line scale, we compared black bear use of lines that varied in width and vegetation recovery state to undisturbed forest interior locations. At a 5‐km2 scale, we compared the probability of bear use across a continuum of seismic line density. At both spatial scales, we also tested for an interaction between bear use of seismic lines and use of upland and lowland forest types. Black bears used most types of seismic lines more frequently than undisturbed forest interior and upland forest more than lowland forest. We found no evidence of an interaction between lines and forest type, as the relative difference in seismic line versus forest interior use was the same in lowland and upland forest. At the 5‐km2 scale, we found no evidence of increased use of lowland forest in areas with greater seismic line density. Thus, seismic lines did not appear to increase black bear use of lowland forest types per se. However, bears used seismic lines more than forest interiors, which might alter their ability to locate and capture caribou and other ungulate prey, thereby creating the potential for altered predator‐prey dynamics in landscapes with seismic lines. Bears do not appear to use seismic lines ≤2 m wide more often than the forest interior. We suggest that where new seismic lines are constructed, those seismic lines should be a maximum width of 2 m to reduce the potential for altered predator‐prey dynamics in areas being developed for oil and gas extraction. © 2014 The Wildlife Society.
17O and 33S nuclear magnetic shielding of sulfur trioxides from the experimental measurements and theoretical calculations
Authors: Makulski Włodzimierz , Tulewicz Adam , Leś Andrzej
Published: January 2014

In a recent 17O NMR spectra of liquid sulfur trioxide, several unexpected peaks appeared with the temperature‐dependent integrated peak ratio. In order to interpret NMR spectra and assign peaks to possible molecular structures, the theoretical quantum mechanical density functional theory and Møller–Plesset second‐order perturbation theory calculations were performed. It is suggested that in the liquid sulfur trioxide, apart from monomeric SO3, a significant amount of (SO3)3 cyclic trimers should appear. No theoretical data support hypothesis on (SO3)2 dimers formation. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Alumina nanoparticle filled epoxy resin: High strain rate compressive behavior
Authors: Naik N.K. , Pandya Kedar S. , Kavala V.R. , Zhang W. , Koratkar N.A.
Published: January 2014

This study demonstrates high strain rate behavior of neat epoxy and epoxy resin reinforced with 2 wt% and 5 wt% alumina nanoparticles. The present study investigates effect of strain rate as well as effect of alumina nanoparticle dispersion on the compressive stress – compressive strain behavior of epoxy resin. Studies were carried out on compressive split Hopkinson pressure bar apparatus in the strain rate range of 700–3200 per sec. Significant enhancement of compressive strength of epoxy resin up to 147% was noted at high strain rate compared with that at quasi‐static loading. The corresponding increase for alumina nanoparticle filled epoxy resin was up to 142%. It was also observed that the compressive strength of epoxy resin increases up to 8.6% with the addition of alumina nanoparticles at a strain rate of 3000 per sec. Synthesis of alumina nanoparticle filled epoxy resin, high strain rate and quasi‐static testing and main findings of the study are presented in this article. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 54:2896–2901, 2014. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Facile preparation and cytocompatibility of poly(lactic acid)/poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐4‐hydroxybutyrate) hybrid fibrous scaffolds
Authors: Wang Xinhui , Sang Lin , Wei Zhiyong , Zhai Lijie , Wang Hong , Song Kedong , Qi Min
Published: January 2014

A fibrous scaffold is required to provide three‐dimensional (3D) cell growth microenvironments and appropriate synergistic cell guidance cues. In this study, porous scaffolds with different mass ratio of poly(lactic acid) to poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐4‐hydroxybutyrate) (P(3HB‐co‐4HB)) for tissue engineering were prepared by a modified particle leaching method. The effect of the addition of P(3HB‐co‐4HB) on microstructural morphology, compression property, swelling behavior, and enzymatic degradation of hybrid scaffolds was systematically investigated. The results indicated that this method was simple but efficient to prepare highly interconnected biomimetic 3D hybrid scaffolds (PP50/50 and PP33/67) with fibrous pore walls. The cytocompatibility of hybrid scaffolds was evaluated by in vitro culture of mesenchymal stem cells. The cell‐cultured hybrid scaffolds presented a complete 3D porous structure, thus allowing cell proliferation on the surface and infiltration into the inner part of scaffolds. The obtained hybrid scaffolds with pore size ranging from 200 to 450 µm, over 90% porosity, adjustable biodegradability, and water‐uptake capability will be promising for cartilage tissue engineering applications. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 54:2902–2910, 2014. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers