bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative proteome profiling of bleomycin‐induced lung toxicity in rats by 2D–nano‐LC–MS/MS and spectral counting
Authors: Zhou Xiang , Sun Xionghua , Jiang Xiaogang
Published: September 2016

Abstract

The mechanisms involved in bleomycin‐induced lung toxicity have not been fully understood to date. This work aimed to compare the proteome profiling of bleomycin‐induced lung toxicity by using 2D–nano‐LC–MS/MS and spectral counting. By comparing the spectral counts of identified proteins between control and bleomycin‐treated groups, we noted that 102 proteins were upregulated and 28 proteins were downregulated in the bleomycin‐treated group. Among these differently expressed proteins, five proteins were chosen for validation by Western blot analysis. The levels of these five proteins were consistent with proteomic results. These potential mediators can facilitate the translation of the underlying mechanisms of bleomycin‐induced lung toxicity to molecular targets in the clinical arena.
An anatomical study of the transversus nuchae muscle: Application to better understanding occipital neuralgia
Authors: Watanabe Koichi , Saga Tsuyoshi , Iwanaga Joe , Tabira Yoko , Yamaki Koh‐Ichi
Published: September 2016

The transversus nuchae muscle appears inconsistently in the occipital region. It has gained attention as one of the muscles composing the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS). The purpose of this study was to clarify its detailed anatomical features. We examined 124 sides of 62 cadavers. The transversus nuchae muscle was identified when present and examined after it had been completely exposed. We also examined its relationship to the occipital cutaneous nerves.The transversus nuchae muscle was detected in 40 sides (40/124, 32.2%) of 26 cadavers; it was present bilaterally in 14 and unilaterally in 12. It originated from the external occipital protuberance; 43% of the observed muscles inserted around the mastoid process, and 58% curved upward around the mastoid process and became the uppermost bundle of the platysma. In one case, an additional bundle originated from the lower posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle and coursed obliquely upward along with platysma. Ninety percent of the muscles ran below the sling through which the greater occipital nerve passed; 65% of the lesser occipital nerves ran deep to the muscle, and 55% of the great auricular nerves ran superficial to it. Our observations clarify the unique anatomical features of the transversus nuchae muscle. We found that it occurs at a rate similar to that described in previous reports, but its arrangement is variable. Further investigations will be performed to clarify its innervation and other anatomical features. Clin. Anat. 30:32–38, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Early discharge as a mediator of greater ICU‐level care requirements in patients not enrolled on the AAML0531 clinical trial: a Children's Oncology Group report
Authors: Getz Kelly D. , Miller Tamara P. , Seif Alix E. , Li Yimei , Huang Yuan‐Shung , Alonzo Todd , Gerbing Robert , Sung Lillian , Hall Matthew , Bagatell Rochelle , Gamis Alan , Fisher Brian T. , Aplenc Richard
Published: September 2016

Previous data suggest that patients enrolled on clinical trials for treatment of cancer have better overall survival than patients who do not enroll; however, short‐term outcomes relative to trial enrollment and corresponding mediators have not been assessed. A cohort of pediatric patients with newly‐diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia was assembled from the Pediatric Health Information System. We evaluated whether patients not enrolled onto Children's Oncology Group trial AAML0531 had greater intensive care unit (ICU)‐level requirements than enrolled patients and whether early discharge after chemotherapy administration mediated this association. Patients not enrolled on AAML0531 were more likely to be discharged early (aOR = 1.40, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02, 1.90) and to require ICU‐level care (aOR = 2.00, 95% CI: 1.06, 3.78) than enrolled patients, but early discharge explained only a small proportion (12.3%) of the absolute difference in ICU‐level care risk. The direct effect of nonenrollment on the need for ICU‐level care was significant (aOR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.00, 3.94), whereas the indirect effect mediated through early discharge was not (aOR = 1.07, 95% CI: 0.95, 1.19). Factors other than postchemotherapy discharge strategy drive the difference in ICU utilization by trial enrollment status.
Chemokine CXCL1 may serve as a potential molecular target for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Han Ke‐qi , Han Hui , He Xue‐qun , Wang Lei , Guo Xiao‐dong , Zhang Xue‐ming , Chen Jie , Zhu Quan‐gang , Nian Hua , Zhai Xiao‐feng , Jiang Ma‐wei
Published: September 2016

The purpose of this study was to screen for changes in chemokine and chemokine‐related genes that are expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) as potential markers of HCC progression. Total RNA was extracted from tumor and peritumor tissues from mice with HCC and analyzed using a PCR microarray comprising 98 genes. Changes in gene expression of threefold or more were screened and subsequently confirmed by immunohistochemical analyses and western blotting. Furthermore, whether chemokine knockdown by RNA interference (RNAi) could significantly suppress tumor growth in vivo was also evaluated. Finally, total serum samples were collected from HCC patients with HBV/cirrhosis (n = 16) or liver cirrhosis (n = 16) and from healthy controls (n = 16). The serum mRNA and protein expression levels of CXCL1 in primary liver cancer patients were detected by qRT‐PCR and western blot analysis, respectively. Several genes were up‐regulated in tumor tissues during the progression period, including CXCL1, CXCL2, CXCL3, and IL‐1β, while CXCR1 expression was down‐regulated. CBRH‐7919 cells carrying CXCL1 siRNA resulted in decreased tumor growth in nude mice. The differences in serum CXCL1 mRNA and protein levels among the HCC, hepatic sclerosis (HS), and control groups were significant (P < 0.001). The mRNA and protein levels of CXCL1 in the HCC group were up‐regulated compared with the HS group or the control group (P < 0.001). Several chemokine genes were identified that might play important roles in the tumor microenvironment of HCC. These results provide new insights into human HCC and may ultimately facilitate early HCC diagnosis and lead to the discovery of innovative therapeutic approaches for HCC.
On Dioxygen and Substrate Access to Soluble Methane Monooxygenases: An all‐Atom Molecular Dynamics Investigation in Water Solution
Authors: Pietra Francesco
Published: September 2016

In a preliminary exploration of the dummy model for diiron proteins, random‐acceleration molecular dynamics (RAMD) revealed that a pure four‐helix bundle structure, like hemerythrin, constitutes an efficient cage for dioxygen (O2), which can only leave from defined, albeit very broad, gates. However, this well ordered structure does not constitute an archetype on which to compare O2 permeation of other diiron proteins, like the complex of soluble methane monooxygenase hydroxylase with the regulatory protein (sMMOH‐MMOB). The reason is that with this complex, unlike hemerythrin, the four helices of the four‐helix bundle are heavily bent, and RAMD showed that most traps for O2 lie outside them. It was also observed that, in spite of a nearly identical van der Waals radius for O2 and the natural substrate CH4, the latter behaves under RAMD as a bulkier molecule than O2, requiring a higher external force to be brought out of sMMOH‐MMOB along trajectories of viable length. All that determined with sMMOH‐MMOB multiple gates and multiple pathways to each of them through several binding pockets, for both O2 and CH4. Of the two equally preferred pathways for O2, at right angle with one another, one proved to be in accordance with the Xe‐atom mapping for sMMOH. In contrast, none of the pathways identified for CH4 proved to be in accordance with such mapping, CH4 looking for more open avenues instead.
Crocin protects human erythrocytes from nitrite‐induced methemoglobin formation and oxidative damage
Authors: Ansari Fariheen Aisha , Ali Shaikh Nisar , Mahmood Riaz
Published: September 2016

Sodium nitrite (NaNO2) is a common contaminant of drinking water and food and feed chain. Nitrite induces oxidative damage in humans and animals. In this work, we studied the protective effect of crocin, the active constituent of Crocus sativus (saffron), on NaNO2‐induced oxidative damage in human erythrocytes. Changes in oxidative stress parameters following NaNO2 incubation of erythrocytes in presence and absence of crocin were determined. It was found that crocin pre‐treatment significantly attenuated NaNO2‐induced oxidative damage of proteins, lipids, and plasma membrane. Crocin reduced the level of methemoglobin, the primary acute effect of nitrite intoxication. It also improved the antioxidant capacity of cells and NaNO2‐induced morphological changes in erythrocytes. Crocin is thus a potent protective agent against nitrite‐induced cytotoxicity.
Cobalt‐Porphyrin‐Catalyzed Oxygen Reduction Reaction: A Scanning Tunneling Microscopy Study
Authors: Cai Zhen‐Feng , Wang Xiang , Wang Dong , Wan Li‐Jun
Published: September 2016

We report an in situ electrochemical scanning tunneling microscopy (ECSTM) investigation of the 5,10,15,20‐tetraphenyl‐21H,23H‐porphine cobalt(II) (CoTPP)‐catalyzed oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). A highly ordered CoTPP adlayer is revealed on the Au(111) electrode. High‐contrast adsorbed species are monitored in CoTPP adlayer in electrolyte containing oxygen, and are attributed to the formation of CoTPP–O2 complexes. In situ STM results reveal the sharp contrast changes upon switching the substrate potential to trigger the ORR. The results benefit the understanding of the catalytic role of metal porphyrins (MPs) in the ORR, which is important for the design of MP‐based catalysts.
Metal‐Free Hydrogen Atom Transfer from Water: Expeditious Hydrogenation of N‐Heterocycles Mediated by Diboronic Acid
Authors: Xia Yun‐Tao , Sun Xiao‐Tao , Zhang Ling , Luo Kai , Wu Lei
Published: September 2016

A hydrogenation of N‐heterocycles mediated by diboronic acid with water as the hydrogen atom source is reported. A variety of N‐heterocycles can be hydrogenated with medium to excellent yields within 10 min. Complete deuterium incorporation from stoichiometric D2O onto substrates further exemplifies the H/D atom sources. Mechanism studies reveal that the reduction proceeds with initial 1,2‐addition, in which diboronic acid synergistically activates substrates and water via a six‐membered ring transition state.
Effects of Nanoparticles on Gas Production, Viscosity Reduction, and Foam Formation during Nanofluid Alternating Gas Injection in Low and High Permeable Carbonate Reservoirs
Authors: Moradi Babak , Pourafshary Peyman , Jalali Farahani , Mohammadi Mohsen
Published: September 2016

Some carbonate reservoirs are low‐permeable and mixed‐wet to oil‐wet. Application of enhanced recovery methods to decrease residual oil saturation is the main challenge in such reservoirs. Water‐flooding is not an appropriate method to improve the recovery due to the wettability of carbonate reservoirs. Water alternating gas (WAG) injection is used as another method but it faces some problems. To enhance the performance of the WAG method, the wettability of rock should be changed and mobility of the injected gas should be controlled.

In our previous study (Moradi et al.[32]), to improve the WAG‐EOR process and overcome the problems, we developed the nanofluid‐alternating gas (NWAG) approach by adding nanoparticles to the aqueous phase. Our study indicated that the NWAG process could improve oil recovery in comparison to the conventional WAG method in different core samples with different lithology and permeability. In this study, core‐flooding experiments, dynamic foam generation, and viscosity measurement were performed to investigate the effect of nanoparticles on gas production, viscosity reduction, and possibility of foam formation in the NWAG process. The results indicated that the gas production was decreased in the NWAG process. In addition, viscosity of produced oil was lower in the NWAG process; CO2 dissolved in the oil and led to oil swelling and oil viscosity reduction. Oil recovery was higher in the samples with lower permeability due to the formation of foam in the porous media. Foam formation increased viscosity and controlled mobility, which led to better sweep efficiency.
Oxygen‐Molecule Adsorption and Dissociation on BCN Graphene: A First‐Principles Study
Authors: Tang Shaobin , Wu Weihua , Liu Liangxian , Gu Junjing
Published: September 2016

Boron and nitrogen co‐doped (BCN) graphene is an attractive material for use as a metal‐free oxygen reduction reaction electrocatalyst and as other catalysts due to its unique structure and electronic properties. Reported here is the structure, determined by using density functional theory, of the active O2‐dissociation site of BCN graphene containing different types of BN cluster. The results show that the edge termination and shape of substitutional BN clusters are two important factors that determine the catalytic activity of BCN graphene for the dissociation of molecular oxygen. N‐Terminated triangular BN (t‐BN) cluster doping can reduce the energy barrier more effectively compared to a t‐BN with a B edge or quadrangular BN cluster. Interestingly, the B atom neighboring the N edge, only in the case of N‐terminated t‐BN doping, is determined to be the most active site for O2 dissociation due to the barrier being as low as 0.08 eV. The electronic structure calculations reveal that in addition to the large positive charge densities, the catalytic activity of graphene enhanced by B,N doping is also attributed to the increased density of states of the π* states of the active site around the Fermi level.
Doping‐Induced Absorption Bands in P3HT: Polarons and Bipolarons
Authors: Enengl Christina , Enengl Sandra , Pluczyk Sandra , Havlicek Marek , Lapkowski Mieczyslaw , Neugebauer Helmut , Ehrenfreund Eitan
Published: September 2016

In this work, we focus on the formation of different kinds of charge carriers such as polarons and bipolarons upon p‐type doping (oxidation) of the organic semiconductor poly(3‐ hexylthiophene‐2,5‐diyl) (P3HT). We elucidate the cyclic voltammogram during oxidation of this polymer and present spectroscopic changes upon doping in the UV/Vis/near‐IR range as well as in the mid‐IR range. In the low‐oxidation regime, two absorption bands related to sub‐gap transitions appear, one in the UV/Vis range and another one in the mid‐IR range. The UV/Vis absorption gradually decreases upon further doping while the mid‐IR absorption shifts to lower energy. Additionally, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) measurements are performed, showing an increase of the EPR signal up to a certain doping level, which significantly decreases upon further doping. Furthermore, the absorption spectra in the UV/Vis range are analyzed in relation to the morphology (crystalline vs. amorphous) by using theoretical models. Finally, the calculated charge carriers from cyclic voltammogram are linked together with optical transitions as well as with the EPR signals upon p‐type doping. We stress that our results indicate the formation of polarons at low doping levels and the existence of bipolarons at high doping levels. The presented spectroscopic data are an experimental evidence of the formation of bipolarons in P3HT.
Fabrication of ferric oxide/reduced graphene oxide/cadmium sulfide heterostructure photoelectrode for enhanced photoelectrochemical performance
Authors: Bai Hong‐Ye , Chen Chao , Wu Hua , Da Zulin , Fan Weiqiang
Published: September 2016

A novel high‐efficiency photoelectrode (Fe2O3/reduced graphene oxide/CdS) built from heterostructure and conductive scaffold has been successfully designed and synthesized. Reduced graphene oxide works as a “bridge” which benefits for electron and hole transport. The obtained heterostructure photoelectrodes were systematically characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The photoconversion efficiency (η) and photocurrent densities vs. time (I‐t) curves responding to monochromatic lights have been further investigated in‐depth, which reveals that introduction of CdS and reduced graphene oxide played an important role in the enhancement of photoelectrochemical performance.
Reduced inflammation in expanding populations of a neotropical bird species
Authors: Bailly Juliette , Garnier Stéphane , Khimoun Aurélie , Arnoux Emilie , Eraud Cyril , Goret Jean‐Yves , Luglia Thomas , Gaucher Philippe , Faivre Bruno
Published: September 2016

The loss of regulating agents such as parasites is among the most important changes in biotic interactions experienced by populations established in newly colonized areas. Under a relaxed parasite pressure, individuals investing less in costly immune mechanisms might experience a selective advantage and become successful colonizers as they re‐allocate resources to other fitness‐related traits. Accordingly, a refinement of the evolution of increased competitive ability (EICA) hypothesis proposed that immunity of invasive populations has evolved toward a reduced investment in innate immunity, the most costly component of immunity, and an increased humoral immunity that is less costly. Biogeographical approaches comparing populations between native and expansion ranges are particularly relevant in exploring this issue, but remain very scarce. We conducted a biogeographical comparison between populations of Spectacled Thrush (Turdus nudigenis) from the native area (South America) and from the expansion range (Caribbean islands). First, we compared haemosporidian prevalence and circulating haptoglobin (an acute‐phase protein produced during inflammation). Second, we challenged captive birds from both ranges with Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and measured postchallenge haptoglobin production and body mass change. Birds from the expansion range showed lower haemosporidian prevalence and lower levels of haptoglobin than birds from the native range. In addition, the inflammation elicited by LPS injection and its associated cost in terms of body mass loss were lower in birds from the expansion range than in birds from the native range. In accordance with the enemy release hypothesis, our results suggest that range expansion is associated with a reduced infection risk. Our study also supports the hypothesis that individuals from newly established populations have evolved mechanisms to dampen the inflammatory response and are in accordance with one prediction of the refined EICA hypothesis, proposed to understand biological invasions.
Incorporating redispersal microsites into myrmecochory in eastern North American forests
Authors: Connell R. Kent , Pfennigwerth Alix A. , Classen Aimee T. , Kwit Charles
Published: September 2016

Studies addressing the benefits of “directed dispersal” in ant seed dispersal systems have highlighted the beneficial soil properties of the nests of ants that disperse their seeds. No studies, however, have explored the properties of soils nearby exemplary seed‐dispersing ant nests, where recent work indicates that seeds are quickly “redispersed” in eastern North America. To address this, we focused on a forested ecosystem in eastern United States where a keystone seed‐dispersing ant, Aphaenogaster rudis, commonly disperses the seeds of numerous understory herbs, including Jeffersonia diphylla. We collected soil cores beneath J. diphylla, around A. rudis nests where seeds are dispersed, and from other forest locations. We analyzed the collected soils for microbial activity using potential soil enzyme activity as a proxy, as well as a number of environmental parameters. We followed this with a glasshouse experiment testing whether the soils collected from near nests, beneath J. diphylla, and from other forested areas altered seedling emergence. We found that microbial activities were higher in near‐nest microsites than elsewhere. Specifically, the potential enzyme activities of a carbon‐degrading enzyme (β‐glucosidase), a phosphorus‐acquiring enzyme (phosphatase), and a sulfur‐acquiring enzyme (sulfatase) were all significantly higher in areas near ant nests than elsewhere; this same pattern, although not significant, was found for the nitrogen‐acquiring enzyme NAGase. No differences were found in other environmental variables we investigated (e.g., soil temperature, soil moisture, soil pH). Our field results indicate that soil biological processes are significantly different in near‐nest soils, where the seeds are ultimately dispersed. However, our glasshouse germination trials revealed no enhanced germination in near‐nest soils, thereby refuting any near‐term advantages of directed dispersal to near‐nest locations. Future work should be directed toward addressing whether areas near ant nests provide biologically meaningful escape from seed predation and enhanced establishment, and further characterization of soil microbial communities in such settings.
Modulating sphingosine 1‐phosphate signaling with DOP or FTY720 alleviates vascular and immune defects in mouse sepsis
Authors: Hemdan Nasr Y. A. , Weigel Cynthia , Reimann Christina‐Maria , Gräler Markus H.
Published: September 2016

Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response to pathogens and a leading cause of hospital related mortality worldwide. Sphingosine 1‐phosphate (S1P) regulates multiple cellular processes potentially involved in the pathogenesis of sepsis, including antigen presentation, lymphocyte egress, and maintenance of vascular integrity. We thus explored the impact of manipulating S1P signaling in experimental polymicrobial sepsis in mice. Administration of 4‐deoxypyridoxine (DOP), an inhibitor of the S1P‐degrading enzyme S1P‐lyase, or of the sphingosine analog FTY720 that serves as an S1P receptor agonist after phosphorylation ameliorated morbidity, improved recovery from sepsis in surviving mice, and reduced sepsis‐elicited hypothermia and body weight loss. Treated mice developed lymphopenia, leading to an accumulation of lymphocytes in peripheral lymph nodes, and reduced bacterial burden in liver, but not in blood. Sepsis‐induced upregulation of mRNA expression of cytokines in spleen remained unchanged, but reduction of IL‐6, TNF‐α, MCP‐1, and IL‐10 in plasma was evident. DOP and FTY720 treatment significantly reduced levels of Evans blue leakage from blood into liver and lung, decreased hematocrit values, and lowered plasma levels of VEGF‐A in septic mice. Collectively, our results indicate that modulation of S1P signaling showed a protective phenotype in experimental sepsis by modulating vascular and immune functions.
N‐Alkoxy Carboxamide Stabilized Tin(II) and Germanium(II) Complexes for Thin‐Film Applications
Authors: George Sheby Mary , Nam Ji Hyeun , Lee Ga Yeon , Han Jeong Hwan , Park Bo Keun , Kim Chang Gyoun , Jeon Dong Ju , Chung Taek‐Mo
Published: September 2016

A new series of germanium (1–5) and tin (6–10) complexes were successfully synthesized by employing N‐alkoxy‐functionalized carboxamides as stabilizing ligands, and these complexes could potentially serve as precursors for thin‐film applications. All of the complexes were characterized by FTIR and NMR spectroscopy as well as elemental and thermogravimetric (TG) analyses. The single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies of 5 and 10 revealed that they crystalize in the monoclinic space group P2(1)/c as monomers. The metal centers in these complexes are coordinated to four oxygen atoms and display distorted trigonal‐bipyramidal geometries. The thermogravimetric analysis and volatility studies of the complexes demonstrated the good volatilities and stabilities of 2–4 and 6–9. Among these complexes, Ge(mdpa)2 (3, mdpaH = N‐methoxy‐2,2‐dimethylpropanamide) and Sn(edpa)2 (9, edpaH = N‐ethoxy‐2,2‐dimethylpropanamide) exhibited excellent physicochemical properties with clean single‐step curves and low residual masses in their TG analyses.
Spatio‐temporal Bayesian model selection for disease mapping
Authors: Carroll Rachel , Lawson Andrew B. , Faes Christel , Kirby Russell S. , Aregay Mehreteab , Watjou Kevin
Published: September 2016

Spatio‐temporal analysis of small area health data often involves choosing a fixed set of predictors prior to the final model fit. In this paper, we propose a spatio‐temporal approach of Bayesian model selection to implement model selection for certain areas of the study region as well as certain years in the study time line. Here, we examine the usefulness of this approach by way of a large‐scale simulation study accompanied by a case study. Our results suggest that a special case of the model selection methods, a mixture model allowing a weight parameter to indicate if the appropriate linear predictor is spatial, spatio‐temporal, or a mixture of the two, offers the best option to fitting these spatio‐temporal models. In addition, the case study illustrates the effectiveness of this mixture model within the model selection setting by easily accommodating lifestyle, socio‐economic, and physical environmental variables to select a predominantly spatio‐temporal linear predictor.
Carbon sequestration potential in domestic sewage treatment plants of Indian cities
Authors: Viswanathan Balasubramanian , Kanchinadham Sri Bala Kameswari , Kalyanaraman Chitra
Published: September 2016

Carbon sequestration is a new technology that is gaining importance in combating the harmful effects of global warming. The potential for carbon sequestration from domestic sewage treatment plants operating in India was studied. Based on the data provided by the Government of India on the generation of domestic sewage by State, the organic load generation, sequestration potential and net release of CO2 were calculated. By going in for carbon sequestration, domestic sewage treatment in India has a potential to be a carbon neutral sector with a capacity to store 22 thousand tonnes of CO2 every day at current levels.

The Government of India's focus is on increasing the share of renewable energy sources to combat emissions; however, carbon sequestration technology would be an ideal solution for deployment over the time period required for renewable energy' share to become significant. Three metro cities, viz., Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai are immediate prospects that could adopt this technology, followed by other cities. The prevalent Renewable Energy Credit Trading Scheme in India can support carbon sequestration technology infusion. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 162–170, 2017
The impact of typhoons on sediment connectivity: lessons learnt from contaminated coastal catchments of the Fukushima Prefecture (Japan)
Authors: Chartin Caroline , Evrard Olivier , Laceby J. Patrick , Onda Yuichi , Ottlé Catherine , Lefèvre Irène , Cerdan Olivier
Published: September 2016

Sediment connectivity characterizes the physical transfer of sediment through different geomorphic compartments in catchments due to sediment detachment, transport and deposition. Quantifying and modelling sediment connectivity is therefore a key prerequisite to improving our understanding of the dispersion of particle‐borne contaminants, especially in catchments exposed to highly erosive climates. The objective of this study is to provide novel insights into typhoon impacts on sediment connectivity from hillslopes to rivers. The dispersion of particle‐bound caesium‐137 (137Cs) was investigated in two coastal catchments draining the main contamination plume from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident. Five sampling campaigns were carried out from November 2011 to November 2015, after each typhoon season. The spatial and temporal evolution of 137Cs contamination was investigated through the calculation of 137Cs enrichment ratios in sediment relative to nearby soils. Rainfall erosivity (EI30) associated with the main typhoons that occurred prior to each sampling campaign were computed, mapped, and finally used to improve a topographic‐based index of connectivity. From 2011 to 2015, mean contamination levels in Mano and Niida catchments decreased from 11.9 kBq kg−1 to 3.3 kBq kg−1 and from 34.1 kBq kg−1 to 8.0 kBq kg−1, respectively. Regional mean EI30 ranged from 262 MJ mm ha−1 h−1 for typhoon Jelawat (in 2012) to 1695 MJ mm ha−1 h−1 for typhoon Roke (in 2011). Typhoons Roke (2011) and Etau (2015) showed the highest connectivity from contaminated sources to the rivers, and induced a significant export of sediment to the ocean. In 2013 a slight increase in 137Cs levels in river sediments occurred, likely resulting from initial decontamination works and the occurrence of two consecutive typhoons. Importantly, this research provides new insights into the connectivity of the main sources of sediments contaminated with radiocaesium in Fukushima Prefecture and their temporal evolution, which will help with ongoing decontamination efforts. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Acoustic simulation using a novel approach for reducing dispersion error
Authors: Wang G. , Cui X.Y. , Li G.Y.
Published: September 2016

It is well‐known that the traditional finite element method (FEM) fails to provide accurate results to the Helmholtz equation with the increase of wave number because of the ‘pollution error’ caused by numerical dispersion. In order to overcome this deficiency, a gradient‐weighted finite element method (GW‐FEM) that combines Shepard interpolation and linear shape functions is proposed in this work. Three‐node triangular and four‐node tetrahedral elements that can be generated automatically are first used to discretize the problem domain in 2D and 3D spaces, respectively. For each independent element, a compacted support domain is then formed based on the element itself and its adjacent elements sharing common edges (or faces). With the aid of Shepard interpolation, a weighted acoustic gradient field is then formulated, which will be further used to construct the discretized system equations through the generalized Galerkin weak form. Numerical examples demonstrate that the present algorithm can significantly reduces the dispersion error in computational acoustics. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Role of Policy and Institutions on Health Spending
Authors: de la Maisonneuve Christine , Moreno‐Serra Rodrigo , Murtin Fabrice , Oliveira Martins Joaquim
Published: September 2016

This paper investigates the impact of policies and institutions on health expenditures for a large panel of Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development countries for the period of 2000–2010. A set of 20 policy and institutional indicators developed by the Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development are integrated into a theoretically motivated econometric framework, alongside control variables related to demographic (dependency ratio) and non‐demographic (income, prices and technology) drivers of health expenditures per capita. Although a large share of cross‐country differences in public health expenditures can be explained by demographic and economic factors (around 71%), cross‐country variations in policies and institutions also have a significant influence, explaining most of the remaining difference in public health spending (23%). Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
HPV for cervical cancer screening (HPV FOCAL): Complete Round 1 results of a randomized trial comparing HPV‐based primary screening to liquid‐based cytology for cervical cancer
Authors: Ogilvie Gina S. , Krajden Mel , van Niekerk Dirk , Smith Laurie W. , Cook Darrel , Ceballos Kathy , Lee Marette , Gentile Laura , Gondara Lovedeep , Elwood‐Martin Ruth , Peacock Stuart , Stuart Gavin , Franco Eduardo L. , Coldman Andrew J.
Published: September 2016

Complete Round 1 data (baseline and 12‐month follow‐up) for HPV FOCAL, a randomized trial establishing the efficacy of HPV DNA testing with cytology triage as a primary screen for cervical cancer are presented. Women were randomized to one of three arms: Control arm – Baseline liquid‐based cytology (LBC) with ASCUS results triaged with HPV testing; Intervention and Safety arms – Baseline HPV with LBC triage for HPV positives. Results are presented for 15,744 women allocated to the HPV (intervention and safety combined) and 9,408 to the control arms. For all age cohorts, the CIN3+ detection rate was higher in the HPV (7.5/1,000; 95%CI: 6.2, 8.9) compared to the control arm (4.6/1,000; 95%CI: 3.4, 6.2). The CIN2+ detection rates were also significantly higher in the HPV (16.5/1,000; 95%CI: 14.6, 18.6) vs. the control arm (10.1/1,000; 95%CI: 8.3, 12.4). In women ≥35 years, the overall detection rates for CIN2+ and CIN3+ were higher in the HPV vs. the control arm (CIN2+:10.0/1,000 vs. 5.2/1,000; CIN3+: 4.2/1,000 vs. 2.2/1,000 respectively, with a statistically significant difference for CIN2+). HPV testing detected significantly more CIN2+ in women 25–29 compared to LBC (63.7/1,000; 95%CI: 51.9, 78.0 vs. 32.4/1,000; 95%CI: 22.3, 46.8). HPV testing resulted in significantly higher colposcopy referral rates for all age cohorts (HPV: 58.9/1,000; 95%CI: 55.4, 62.7 vs. control: 30.9/1,000; 95%CI: 27.6, 34.6). At completion of Round 1 HPV‐based cervical cancer screening in a population‐based program resulted in greater CIN2+ detection of across all age cohorts compared to LBC screening.
Immune complexome analysis reveals the specific and frequent presence of immune complex antigens in lung cancer patients: A pilot study
Authors: Ohyama Kaname , Yoshimi Haruka , Aibara Nozomi , Nakamura Yoichi , Miyata Yasuyoshi , Sakai Hideki , Fujita Fumihiko , Imaizumi Yoshitaka , Chauhan Anil K , Kishikawa Naoya , Kuroda Naotaka
Published: September 2016

Cancer immunotherapies such as antibodies targeting T cell checkpoints, or adaptive tumor‐infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) transfer, have been developed to boost the endogenous immune response against human malignancies. However, activation of T cells by such antibodies can lead to the risk of autoimmune diseases. Also, the selection of tumor‐reactive T cells for TIL relies on information regarding mutated antigens in tumors and does not reflect other factors involved in protein antigenicity. It is therefore essential to engineer therapeutic interventions by which T cell reactivity against tumor cells is selectively enhanced (i.e., “focused cancer immunotherapy”) based on tumor antigens that are specifically expressed in the tumor of a certain cancer and in many patients with this cancer. Immune complexes (ICs) are the direct and stable products of immunological recognition by humoral immunity. Here, we searched for tumor‐specific IC antigens in each of five cancers (lung (n = 28), colon (n = 20), bladder (n = 20), renal cell (n = 15) and malignant lymphoma (n = 9)), by using immune complexome analysis that comprehensively identifies and profiles the constituent antigens in ICs. This analysis indicated that gelsolin and inter‐alpha‐trypsin inhibitor heavy chains were specifically and frequently detected (at a frequency higher than 80%), and that phosphoproteins (VENTX, VCIP135) were also specifically present in the ICs of lung cancer patients. Immune complexome analysis successfully identified several tumor‐specific IC antigens with high detection frequency in lung cancer patients. These specific antigens are required to validate the clinical benefit by further analysis using a large number of patients.
Autophagy function and its relationship to pathology, clinical applications, drug metabolism and toxicity
Authors: Petibone Dayton M. , Majeed Waqar , Casciano Daniel A.
Published: September 2016

Autophagy is a cellular process that facilitates nutrient turnover and removal of expended macromolecules and organelles to maintain homeostasis. The recycling of cytosolic macromolecules and damaged organelles by autophagosomes occurs through the lysosomal degradation pathway. Autophagy can also be upregulated as a prosurvival pathway in response to stress stimuli such as starvation, hypoxia or cell damage. Over the last two decades, there has been a surge in research revealing the basic molecular mechanisms of autophagy in mammalian cells. A corollary of an advanced understanding of autophagy has been a concurrent expansion of research into understanding autophagic function and dysfunction in pathology. Recent studies have revealed a pivotal role for autophagy in drug toxicity, and for utilizing autophagic components as diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets in treating disease and cancer. In this review, advances in understanding the molecular basis of mammalian autophagy, methods used to induce and evaluate autophagy, and the diverse interactions between autophagy and drug toxicity, disease progression and carcinogenesis are discussed. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Triggering of apoptosis in osteosarcoma cells by graphene/single‐walled carbon nanotube hybrids via the ROS‐mediated mitochondrial pathway
Authors: Yan Xinxin , Yang Wen , Shao Zengwu , Yang Shuhua , Liu Xianzhe
Published: September 2016

Carbon nanomaterials are increasingly significant in the biological and medical fields, especially becoming promising candidates in treating difficult and complicated disease. Graphene/single‐walled carbon nanotubes (G/SWCNT) hybrids is 3D structure which has been constructed by combining 1D single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and 2D graphene. However, the effects of the nanomaterial on biological systems are limited. In this study, we report a systematic investigation of the cytotoxicity and in vivo biodistribution of G/SWCNT hybrids on osteosarcoma cells (HOS and U2OS). The CCK‐8, neutral red, and lactic dehydrogenase assays demonstrated that the cytotoxicity of G/SWCNT hybrids exhibits a dose‐dependent behavior on osteosarcoma cells. In our conditions, the hybrids were less cytotoxic than graphene and single‐walled carbon nanotubes. The results also showed the apoptosis of osteosarcoma cells induced by G/SWCNT hybrids was through the increase of intracellular reactive oxygen species, the decrease of mitochondrial membrane potential, the alternation of apoptosis‐related proteins, and then triggered the ROS‐mediated mitochondrial pathway. Moreover, the in vivo biodistribution of G/SWCNT hybrids was observed by histological analysis of major organs in mice, and showed that organs were neither damaged nor inflammatory. This study demonstrated that G/SWCNT hybrids could serve as a potential platform in anticancer therapy. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 443–453, 2017.
Mixture of PLA–PEG and biotinylated albumin enables immobilization of avidins on electrospun fibers
Authors: Kumar Manish , Rahikainen Rolle , Unruh Daniel , Hytönen Vesa P. , Delbrück Cesare , Sindelar Ralf , Renz Franz
Published: September 2016

The application of nanotechnology in biomedical field has enormous potential in basic and applied research. Micro or nanofibers produced by electrospinning technique offer excellent properties because of large specific surface area, high porosity, and ability to incorporate functional additives. Here we embedded biotinylated bovine serum albumin into polylactic acid (PLA)–polyethylene glycol (PEG) fibers, which enabled specific immobilization of fluorescently labelled avidin. An alkaline phosphatase enzyme was immobilized via biotin‐streptavidin interaction on the hybrid nanofibers, demonstrating the suitability of the material for biosensing applications. These functional nanofibers provide a promising platform for development of biosensors and other biofunctional materials utilizing avidin–biotin as a generic and robust immobilization method. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 356–362, 2017.
Proteomic Profiling Reveals the Induction of UPR in Addition to DNA Damage Response in HeLa Cells Treated With the Thiazolo[5,4‐b]Quinoline Derivative D3ClP
Authors: Páez‐Franco José Carlos , González‐Sánchez Ignacio , Gutiérrez‐Nájera Nora A. , Valencia‐Turcotte Lilián G. , Lira‐Rocha Alfonso , Cerbón Marco A. , Rodríguez‐Sotres Rogelio
Published: September 2016

9‐[(3‐chloro)phenylamine]‐2‐[3‐(diethylamine)propylamine]thiazolo[5,4‐b]quinolone (D3ClP) is a bioisostere of N‐(4‐(acridin‐9‐ylamino)‐3‐methoxyphenyl)methanesulfonamide (m‐AMSA) a DNA topoisomerase II inhibitor with proven cytotoxic activity and known to induce DNA damage and apoptotic cell death in K562 cells. However, recent evidence is not consistent with DNA topoisomerase II (DNA TOP2) as the primary target of D3ClP, in contrast to m‐AMSA. We provide evidence of histone γH2AX phosphorylation at Ser135 in HeLa cells treated with D3ClP, a marker of DNA double strand repair through Mre11‐Rad50‐Nbs1 (MRN) pathway. Using two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry, the upregulation of the protein GRP78, the cleavage of Cytokeratin 18, and the downregulation of prothymosine, calumenin, and the α chain of the nascent polypeptide associated complex were observed in HeLa cells treated with D3ClP. An increase in GRP78 has been related with the onset and progression of the unfolded protein response (UPR), a process aimed to reduce endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and protein misfolding. The IRE1‐α dependent splicing of mRNA encoding X‐box binding protein 1 was detected. Microtubule‐associated Proteins 1A/1B, Light Chain 3‐II (LC3b‐II) accumulation was observed, and suggest some involvement of autophagy. The production of the pro‐apoptotic protein DNA‐damage‐inducible protein 153 (GADD‐153) was also detected. These results, are consistent with the induction of the UPR and the DNA‐Damage Response in D3ClP‐treated HeLa cells, and are also consistent with a concurrent apoptotic cell death. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 1164–1173, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Basic Signaling in Cardiac Fibroblasts
Authors: Chacar Stéphanie , Farès Nassim , Bois Patrick , Faivre Jean‐François
Published: September 2016

Cardiac fibroblasts are commonly known as supporting cells of the cardiac network and exert many essential functions that are fundamental for normal cardiac growth as well as for cardiac remodeling process during pathological conditions. This review focuses on the roles of cardiac fibroblasts in the formation and regulation of the extracellular matrix components, and in maintaining structural, biochemical and mechanical properties of the heart. Additionally, though considered as non‐excitable cells, we review the functional expression in cardiac fibroblasts of a wide variety of transmembrane ion channels which activity may contribute to key regulation of cardiac physiological processes. All together, cardiac fibroblasts which actively participate to fundamental regulation of cardiac physiology and physiopathology processes may represent pertinent targets for pharmacological approaches of cardiac diseases and lead to new tracks of therapeutic strategies. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 725–730, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Response of carboxylate metabolism to zinc deficiency in Lactuca sativa and Brassica oleracea plants
Authors: Navarro‐León Eloy , Albacete Alfonso , Romero Luis , Blasco Begoña , Ruiz Juan M.
Published: September 2016

Species or genotypes differ in their zinc use efficiency (ZnUE) under low Zn availability in the soil. Organic acids (OAs) synthetized by plant carboxylate metabolism may play a role in Zn‐deficiency tolerance. The main objective of the present work was to assess the response of two species of great agronomic interest such as Lactuca sativa and Brassica oleracea to Zn deficiency focusing on OAs and carboxylate metabolism. For this, L. sativa and B. oleracea plants were grown in hydroponic culture with two different Zn‐application rates: 10 µM Zn as control and 0.1 µM Zn as deficiency treatment. ZnUE parameters, concentrations of OAs and enzymes of carboxylate metabolism were analyzed. L. sativa showed better Zn uptake efficiency (ZnUpE), while B. oleracea demonstrated better Zn utilization efficiency (ZnUtE). In L. sativa, citrate and oxaloacetate concentrations and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase and citrate synthase activities increased, while fumarase and malate dehydrogenase activities declined. In B. oleracea no significant response was found in concentrations of carboxylate metabolism or enzyme activity except for a decrease in fumarase activity. These results suggest that a possible factor that induces the tricarboxylic acid cycle could be the low ZnUtE rather than the low Zn concentration under Zn‐deficiency conditions. In L. sativa citrate, oxaloacetate, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase, and citrate synthase may play a key role to face Zn deficiency, while in B. oleracea the higher ZnUtE cannot be explained in terms of a rise in OAs synthesis.
The dispersion of graphene in conductive epoxy composites investigated by Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Zhao Fanyu , Ling Liangzhong , Liu Liyan , Zafar Amina , Ni Zhenhua
Published: September 2016

The two‐dimensional structure and unique properties make graphene an efficient candidate to strengthen the electrical and mechanical characteristics of polymer composites. The effectiveness for improving the electrical property of composites strongly depends on the size, electrical conductivity and dispersion of graphene fillers in polymer matrix. Here, we demonstrate that Raman spectroscopy can be used to study the dispersion of conductive graphene layers in epoxy composite. The graphene area fraction obtained from Raman images shows a percolation threshold of around 25%, where a conductive network is formed within the epoxy matrix, which agrees well with conductivity results. Furthermore, it is observed that the conductivity and distribution of graphene in epoxy composites are highly influenced by the mixture temperature of graphene and epoxy system. Our results provide a strategy to effectively monitor the dispersion of graphene and study its relation with the properties of composite materials. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Targeting of sebaceous glands to treat acne by micro‐insulated needles with radio frequency in a rabbit ear model
Authors: Kwon Tae‐Rin , Choi Eun Ja , Oh Chang Taek , Bak Dong‐Ho , Im Song‐I , Ko Eun Jung , Hong Hyuck Ki , Choi Yeon Shik , Seok Joon , Choi Sun Young , Ahn Gun Young , Kim Beom Joon
Published: September 2016

Background and Objectives

Many studies have investigated the application of micro‐insulated needles with radio frequency (RF) to treat acne in humans; however, the use of a micro‐insulated needle RF applicator has not yet been studied in an animal model. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a micro‐insulated needle RF applicator in a rabbit ear acne (REA) model.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

In this study, we investigated the effect of selectively destroying the sebaceous glands using a micro‐insulated needle RF applicator on the formation of comedones induced by application of 50% oleic acid and intradermal injection ofP. acnesin the orifices of the external auditory canals of rabbits. The effects of the micro‐insulated needle RF applicator treatment were evaluated using regular digital photography in addition to 3D Primos imaging evaluation, Skin Visio Meter microscopic photography, and histologic analyses.

Results

Use of the micro‐insulated needle RF applicator resulted in successful selective destruction of the sebaceous glands and attenuated TNF‐alpha release in an REA model. The mechanisms by which micro‐insulated needles with RF using 1 MHz exerts its effects may involve inhibition of comedone formation, triggering of the wound healing process, and destruction of the sebaceous glands and papules.

Conclusion

The use of micro‐insulated needles with RF applicators provides a safe and effective method for improving the appearance of symptoms in an REA model. The currentin vivostudy confirms that the micro‐insulated needle RF applicator is selectively destroying the sebaceous glands. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:395–401, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.