bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary intake of fat and fibre according to reference values relates to higher gut microbiota richness in overweight pregnant women
Authors: Röytiö Henna , Mokkala Kati , Vahlberg Tero , Laitinen Kirsi
Published: September 2017

The diet–microbiota–metabolism relationships during pregnancy are mostly unknown. We explored the effect of the habitual diet and adherence to the dietary reference values on gut microbiota composition and diversity. Further, the association of gut microbiota with serum lipidomics and low-grade inflammation was evaluated. Overweight and obese women (BMI 30·7 (sd4·4) kg/m2,n100) were studied at early pregnancy (≤17 weeks). Intakes of nutrients were calculated from 3-d food diaries. Faecal microbiota composition was analysed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Fasting serum lipidomic profiles were determined by NMR. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein, glycoprotein acetylation (GlycA) and lipopolysaccharide activity were used as markers for low-grade inflammation. The recommended dietary intake of fibre and fat was related to higher gut microbiota richness and lower abundance of Bacteroidaceae. Correlations were observed between gut microbiota richness and GlycA and between a few microbiota genera and serum lipoprotein particles. As a conclusion, adherence to the dietary reference intake of fat and fibre was associated with beneficial gut microbiota composition, which again contributed to lipidomic profile. Higher gut microbiota richness and nutrient intakes were linked to a lower level of low-grade inflammation marker GlycA. This finding offers novel insights and opportunities for dietary modification during pregnancy with potential of improving the health of the mother and the child.
Effect of breakfast omission and consumption on energy intake and physical activity in adolescent girls: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Zakrzewski-Fruer Julia K. , Plekhanova Tatiana , Mandila Dafni , Lekatis Yannis , Tolfrey Keith
Published: September 2017

It is not known if breakfast consumption is an effective intervention for altering daily energy balance in adolescents when compared with breakfast omission. This study examined the acute effect of breakfast consumption and omission on free-living energy intake (EI) and physical activity (PA) in adolescent girls. Using an acute randomised cross-over design, forty girls (age 13·3 (sd 0·8) years, BMI 21·5 (sd 5·0) kg/m2) completed two, 3-d conditions in a randomised, counter-balanced order: no breakfast (NB) and standardised (approximately 1962 kJ) breakfast (SB). Dietary intakes were assessed using food diaries combined with digital photographic records and PA was measured via accelerometry throughout each condition. Statistical analyses were completed using repeated-measures ANOVA. Post-breakfast EI was 483 (sd 1309) kJ/d higher in NB v. SB (P=0·025), but total daily EI was 1479 (sd 11311) kJ/d higher in SB v. NB (P<0·0005). Daily carbohydrate, fibre and protein intakes were higher in SB v. NB (P<0·0005), whereas daily fat intake was not different (P=0·405). Effect sizes met the minimum important difference of ≥0·20 for all significant effects. Breakfast manipulation did not affect post-breakfast macronutrient intakes (P≥0·451) or time spent sedentary or in PA (P≥0·657). In this sample of adolescent girls, breakfast omission increased post-breakfast free-living EI, but total daily EI was greater when a SB was consumed. We found no evidence that breakfast consumption induces compensatory changes in PA. Further experimental research is required to determine the effects of extended periods of breakfast manipulation in young people.
Using item response theory to address vulnerabilities in FFQ
Authors: Kazman Josh B. , Scott Jonathan M. , Deuster Patricia A.
Published: September 2017

The limitations for self-reporting of dietary patterns are widely recognised as a major vulnerability of FFQ and the dietary screeners/scales derived from FFQ. Such instruments can yield inconsistent results to produce questionable interpretations. The present article discusses the value of psychometric approaches and standards in addressing these drawbacks for instruments used to estimate dietary habits and nutrient intake. We argue that a FFQ or screener that treats diet as a ‘latent construct’ can be optimised for both internal consistency and the value of the research results. Latent constructs, a foundation for item response theory (IRT)-based scales (e.g. Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System) are typically introduced in the design stage of an instrument to elicit critical factors that cannot be observed or measured directly. We propose an iterative approach that uses such modelling to refine FFQ and similar instruments. To that end, we illustrate the benefits of psychometric modelling by using items and data from a sample of 12 370 Soldiers who completed the 2012 US Army Global Assessment Tool (GAT). We used factor analysis to build the scale incorporating five out of eleven survey items. An IRT-driven assessment of response category properties indicates likely problems in the ordering or wording of several response categories. Group comparisons, examined with differential item functioning (DIF), provided evidence of scale validity across each Army sub-population (sex, service component and officer status). Such an approach holds promise for future FFQ.
Educational level and employment status in adults with congenital heart disease
Authors: Pfitzer Constanze , Helm Paul C. , Rosenthal Lisa-Maria , Walker Christoph , Ferentzi Hannah , Bauer Ulrike M. M. , Berger Felix , Schmitt Katharina R. L.
Published: September 2017

Purpose

Through this study we aimed to assess the educational level and employment status of adults with CHD in Germany.

Methods

Data were acquired from an online survey carried out in 2015 by the German National Register for Congenital Heart Defects. A total of 1458 adults with CHD participated in the survey (response rate: 37.6%). For 1198 participants, detailed medical information, such as main cardiac diagnosis and information from medical reports, was available.

Results

Of the participants surveyed (n=1198), 54.5% (n=653) were female, and the mean age was 30 years. The majority of respondents (59.4%) stated that they had high education levels and that they were currently employed (51.1%). Patients with simple CHD had significantly higher levels of education (p<0.001) and were more likely to be employed (p=0.01) than were patients with complex CHD.

Conclusions

More than half of the participants had high education levels and the majority were employed. The association between CHD and its severity and individuals’ educational attainment should be investigated more closely in future studies.
PARTIAL LIABILITY—CORRIGENDUM
Authors: Kaiserman Alex
Published: September 2017

At the top of page 7 of the article by Kaiserman in the March 2017 issue of Legal Theory, two equations are reversed. The sentence containing these equations should read as follows:

Suppose for the sake of argument that P(c │ d ˄ b) = 0.9 and P(c │ r ˄ b) = 0.2; then it follows from Causal Contribution that f(D, [R, D]→C)b ≈ 0.82 and f(R, [R, D]→C)b ≈ 0.18.
Missions and Missionaries in the Americas:A Special Teaching and Research Collection of The Americas
Authors: Woolley Christopher
Published: September 2017

For more than 70 years,The Americas, a publication of the Academy of American Franciscan History, has been a leading forum for scholars studying the history of Spanish America's colonial missions. As the articles collected from the journal for this special issue show, the general trend has been to move beyond the hagiographic treatment of missionaries and towards a more complex understanding of the historical roles played by the colonial missions in rural life.
Genome-wide association and HLA region fine-mapping studies identify susceptibility loci for multiple common infections
Authors: Tian Chao , Hromatka Bethann S. , Kiefer Amy K. , Eriksson Nicholas , Noble Suzanne M. , Tung Joyce Y. , Hinds David A.
Published: September 2017

Infectious diseases have a profound impact on our health and many studies suggest that host genetics play a major role in the pathogenesis of most of them. We perform 23 genome-wide association studies for common infections and infection-associated procedures, including chickenpox, shingles, cold sores, mononucleosis, mumps, hepatitis B, plantar warts, positive tuberculosis test results, strep throat, scarlet fever, pneumonia, bacterial meningitis, yeast infections, urinary tract infections, tonsillectomy, childhood ear infections, myringotomy, measles, hepatitis A, rheumatic fever, common colds, rubella and chronic sinus infection, in over 200,000 individuals of European ancestry. We detect 59 genome-wide significant (P < 5 × 10−8) associations in genes with key roles in immunity and embryonic development. We apply fine-mapping analysis to dissect associations in the human leukocyte antigen region, which suggests important roles of specific amino acid polymorphisms in the antigen-binding clefts. Our findings provide an important step toward dissecting the host genetic architecture of response to common infections.
Stochastic priming and spatial cues orchestrate heterogeneous clonal contribution to mouse pancreas organogenesis
Authors: Larsen Hjalte List , Martín-Coll Laura , Nielsen Alexander Valentin , Wright Christopher V. E. , Trusina Ala , Kim Yung Hae , Grapin-Botton Anne
Published: September 2017

Spatiotemporal balancing of cellular proliferation and differentiation is crucial for postnatal tissue homoeostasis and organogenesis. During embryonic development, pancreatic progenitors simultaneously proliferate and differentiate into the endocrine, ductal and acinar lineages. Using in vivo clonal analysis in the founder population of the pancreas here we reveal highly heterogeneous contribution of single progenitors to organ formation. While some progenitors are bona fide multipotent and contribute progeny to all major pancreatic cell lineages, we also identify numerous unipotent endocrine and ducto-endocrine bipotent clones. Single-cell transcriptional profiling at E9.5 reveals that endocrine-committed cells are molecularly distinct, whereas multipotent and bipotent progenitors do not exhibit different expression profiles. Clone size and composition support a probabilistic model of cell fate allocation and in silico simulations predict a transient wave of acinar differentiation around E11.5, while endocrine differentiation is proportionally decreased. Increased proliferative capacity of outer progenitors is further proposed to impact clonal expansion.
Cross-talk between miR-471-5p and autophagy component proteins regulates LC3-associated phagocytosis (LAP) of apoptotic germ cells
Authors: Panneerdoss Subbarayalu , Viswanadhapalli Suryavathi , Abdelfattah Nourhan , Onyeagucha Benjamin C. , Timilsina Santosh , Mohammad Tabrez A. , Chen Yidong , Drake Michael , Vuori Kristiina , Kumar T. Rajendra , Rao Manjeet K.
Published: September 2017

Phagocytic clearance of apoptotic germ cells by Sertoli cells is vital for germ cell development and differentiation. Here, using a tissue-specific miRNA transgenic mouse model, we show that interaction between miR-471-5p and autophagy member proteins regulates clearance of apoptotic germ cells via LC3-associated phagocytosis (LAP). Transgenic mice expressing miR-471-5p in Sertoli cells show increased germ cell apoptosis and compromised male fertility. Those effects are due to defective engulfment and impaired LAP-mediated clearance of apoptotic germ cells as miR-471-5p transgenic mice show lower levels of Dock180, LC3, Atg12, Becn1, Rab5 and Rubicon in Sertoli cells. Our results reveal that Dock180 interacts with autophagy member proteins to constitute a functional LC3-dependent phagocytic complex. We find that androgen regulates Sertoli cell phagocytosis by controlling expression of miR-471-5p and its target proteins. These findings suggest that recruitment of autophagy machinery is essential for efficient clearance of apoptotic germ cells by Sertoli cells using LAP.
Tango7 regulates cortical activity of caspases during reaper-triggered changes in tissue elasticity
Authors: Kang Yunsik , Neuman Sarah D. , Bashirullah Arash
Published: September 2017

Caspases perform critical functions in both living and dying cells; however, how caspases perform physiological functions without killing the cell remains unclear. Here we identify a novel physiological function of caspases at the cortex of Drosophila salivary glands. In living glands, activation of the initiator caspase dronc triggers cortical F-actin dismantling, enabling the glands to stretch as they accumulate secreted products in the lumen. We demonstrate that tango7, not the canonical Apaf-1-adaptor dark, regulates dronc activity at the cortex; in contrast, dark is required for cytoplasmic activity of dronc during salivary gland death. Therefore, tango7 and dark define distinct subcellular domains of caspase activity. Furthermore, tango7-dependent cortical dronc activity is initiated by a sublethal pulse of the inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP) antagonist reaper. Our results support a model in which biological outcomes of caspase activation are regulated by differential amplification of IAP antagonists, unique caspase adaptor proteins, and mutually exclusive subcellular domains of caspase activity.
A comprehensive characterization of PncA polymorphisms that confer resistance to pyrazinamide
Authors: Yadon Adam N. , Maharaj Kashmeel , Adamson John H. , Lai Yi-Pin , Sacchettini James C. , Ioerger Thomas R. , Rubin Eric J. , Pym Alexander S.
Published: September 2017

Tuberculosis chemotherapy is dependent on the use of the antibiotic pyrazinamide, which is being threatened by emerging drug resistance. Resistance is mediated through mutations in the bacterial gene pncA. Methods for testing pyrazinamide susceptibility are difficult and rarely performed, and this means that the full spectrum of pncA alleles that confer clinical resistance to pyrazinamide is unknown. Here, we performed in vitro saturating mutagenesis of pncA to generate a comprehensive library of PncA polymorphisms resultant from a single-nucleotide polymorphism. We then screened it for pyrazinamide resistance both in vitro and in an infected animal model. We identify over 300 resistance-conferring substitutions. Strikingly, these mutations map throughout the PncA structure and result in either loss of enzymatic activity and/or decrease in protein abundance. Our comprehensive mutational and screening approach should stand as a paradigm for determining resistance mutations and their mechanisms of action.
The expression and function of miR-424 in infantile skin hemangioma and its mechanism
Authors: Yang Lili , Dai Jun , Li Fan , Cheng Henghui , Yan Dan , Ruan Qiurong
Published: September 2017

Infantile hemangioma is the most common benign tumor in infants. Many studies have confirmed that basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and its key receptor FGFR1 are highly expressed in hemangioma. Moreover, several miRNAs can regulate angiogenesis. In this regard, miR-424 often plays a role as tumor suppressor gene. This study was designed to investigate the mechanism of miR-424 in infantile skin hemangioma. Our results showed low expression of miR-424 in infantile skin hemangioma tissues, and that miR-424 overexpression downregulated FGFR1 expression in hemangioma-derived endothelial cells, while miR-424 inhibition upregulated FGFR1 expression. Luciferase reporter analysis confirmed that FGFR1 was a target gene of miR-424. CCK-8, flow cytometry, transwell migration and tube formation assays demonstrated that miR-424 overexpression inhibited cell proliferation, migration and tube formation, at least in part by blocking the bFGF/FGFR1 pathway. In contrast, miR-424 inhibition significantly enhanced these functions. Furthermore, miR-424 overexpression significantly inhibited ERK1/2 phosphorylation, whereas miR-424 inhibition enhanced ERK1/2 phosphorylation. In conclusion, miR-424 could suppress the bFGF/FGFR1 pathway, thereby inhibit ERK1/2 phosphorylation, and thus inhibit cell proliferation, migration and tube formation capabilities and the development of infantile skin hemangioma.
Characterization of a new member of Iridoviridae, Shrimp hemocyte iridescent virus (SHIV), found in white leg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei)
Authors: Qiu Liang , Chen Meng-Meng , Wan Xiao-Yuan , Li Chen , Zhang Qing-Li , Wang Ruo-Yu , Cheng Dong-Yuan , Dong Xuan , Yang Bing , Wang Xiu-Hua , Xiang Jian-Hai , Huang Jie
Published: September 2017

A newly discovered iridescent virus that causes severe disease and high mortality in farmed Litopenaeus vannamei in Zhejiang, China, has been verified and temporarily specified as shrimp hemocyte iridescent virus (SHIV). Histopathological examination revealed basophilic inclusions and pyknosis in hematopoietic tissue and hemocytes in gills, hepatopancreas, periopods and muscle. Using viral metagenomics sequencing, we obtained partial sequences annotated as potential iridoviridae. Phylogenetic analyses using amino acid sequences of major capsid protein (MCP) and ATPase revealed that it is a new iridescent virus but does not belong to the five known genera of Iridoviridae. Transmission electron microscopy showed that the virus exhibited a typical icosahedral structure with a mean diameter of 158.6 ± 12.5 nm (n = 30)(v-v) and 143.6 ± 10.8 nm (n = 30)(f-f), and an 85.8 ± 6.0 nm (n = 30) nucleoid. Challenge tests of L. vannamei via intermuscular injection, per os and reverse gavage all exhibited 100% cumulative mortality rates. The in situ hybridization showed that hemopoietic tissue, gills, and hepatopancreatic sinus were the positively reacting tissues. Additionally, a specific nested PCR assay was developed. PCR results revealed that L. vannamei, Fenneropenaeus chinensis, and Macrobrachium rosenbergii were SHIV-positive, indicating a new threat existing in the shrimp farming industry in China.
Biomimetically engineered Amphotericin B nano-aggregates circumvent toxicity constraints and treat systemic fungal infection in experimental animals
Authors: Zia Qamar , Mohammad Owais , Rauf Mohd Ahmar , Khan Wasi , Zubair Swaleha
Published: September 2017

Biomimetic synthesis of nanoparticles offers a convenient and bio friendly approach to fabricate complex structures with sub-nanometer precision from simple precursor components. In the present study, we have synthesized nanoparticles of Amphotericin B (AmB), a potent antifungal agent, using Aloe vera leaf extract. The synthesis of AmB nano-assemblies (AmB-NAs) was established employing spectro-photometric and electron microscopic studies, while their crystalline nature was established by X-ray diffraction. AmB-nano-formulation showed much higher stability in both phosphate buffer saline and serum and exhibit sustained release of parent drug over an extended time period. The as-synthesized AmB-NA possessed significantly less haemolysis as well as nephrotoxicity in the host at par with Ambisome®, a liposomized AmB formulation. Interestingly, the AmB-NAs were more effective in killing various fungal pathogens including Candida spp. and evoked less drug related toxic manifestations in the host as compared to free form of the drug. The data of the present study suggest that biomimetically synthesized AmB-NA circumvent toxicity issues and offer a promising approach to eliminate systemic fungal infections in Balb/C mice.
Two NAD-linked redox shuttles maintain the peroxisomal redox balance in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Al-Saryi Nadal A. , Al-Hejjaj Murtakab Y , van Roermund Carlo W. T. , Hulmes Georgia E. , Ekal Lakhan , Payton Chantell , Wanders Ronald J. A. , Hettema Ewald H.
Published: September 2017

In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, peroxisomes are the sole site of fatty acid β-oxidation. During this process, NAD+ is reduced to NADH. When cells are grown on oleate medium, peroxisomal NADH is reoxidised to NAD+ by malate dehydrogenase (Mdh3p) and reduction equivalents are transferred to the cytosol by the malate/oxaloacetate shuttle. The ultimate step in lysine biosynthesis, the NAD+-dependent dehydrogenation of saccharopine to lysine, is another NAD+-dependent reaction performed inside peroxisomes. We have found that in glucose grown cells, both the malate/oxaloacetate shuttle and a glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase 1(Gpd1p)-dependent shuttle are able to maintain the intraperoxisomal redox balance. Single mutants in MDH3 or GPD1 grow on lysine-deficient medium, but an mdh3/gpd1Δ double mutant accumulates saccharopine and displays lysine bradytrophy. Lysine biosynthesis is restored when saccharopine dehydrogenase is mislocalised to the cytosol in mdh3/gpd1Δ cells. We conclude that the availability of intraperoxisomal NAD+ required for saccharopine dehydrogenase activity can be sustained by both shuttles. The extent to which each of these shuttles contributes to the intraperoxisomal redox balance may depend on the growth medium. We propose that the presence of multiple peroxisomal redox shuttles allows eukaryotic cells to maintain the peroxisomal redox status under different metabolic conditions.
Differential Serum Cytokine Profiles in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B, C, and Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Estevez Jacqueline , Chen Vincent L. , Podlaha Ondrej , Li Biao , Le An , Vutien Philip , Chang Ellen T. , Rosenberg-Hasson Yael , Jiang Zhaoshi , Pflanz Stefan , Ge Dongliang , Gaggar Anuj , Nguyen Mindie H.
Published: September 2017

Cytokines play an important role in the pathogenesis of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), most cases of which are related to either hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV). Prior studies have examined differences in individual cytokine levels in patients with chronic liver disease, but comprehensive cytokine profiling data across different clinical characteristics are lacking. We examined serum cytokine profiles of 411 patients with HCC (n = 102: 32% HBV, 54% HCV, 14% non-viral) and without HCC (n = 309: 39% HBV, 39% HCV, 22% non-viral). Multiplex analysis (Luminex 200 IS) was used to measure serum levels of 51 common cytokines. Random forest machine learning was used to obtain receiver operator characteristic curves and to determine individual cytokine importance using Z scores of mean fluorescence intensity for individual cytokines. Among HCC and non-HCC patients, cytokine profiles differed between HBV and HCV patients (area under curve (AUC) 0.82 for HCC, 0.90 for non-HCC). Cytokine profiles did not distinguish cirrhotic HBV patients with and without HCC (AUC 0.503) or HCV patients with and without HCC (AUC 0.63). In conclusion, patients with HBV or HCV infection, with or without HCC, have distinctly different cytokine profiles, suggesting potential differences in disease pathogenesis and/or disease characteristics.
The effect of frozen-thawed embryo transfer performed concurrently with hysteroscopy on the reproductive outcomes during assisted reproductive treatments
Authors: Zhu Xiuxian , Ye Hongjuan , Fu Yonglun
Published: September 2017

The uterine environment is vital to the successful conception; recently, hysteroscopy was used to remove uterine anomalies in patients undergoing assisted reproductive treatments in combination with a “freeze-all” strategy. However, the rapid recurrence of uterine anomalies impose a negative impact on pregnancy. A possible way to avoid this issue is to implement frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) as soon as possible. Thus, we sought to investigate the impact of performing FET concurrently with hysteroscopy in the same mense on the pregnancy outcome. Patients enrolled were divided into two groups: group 1 (n = 272, FET in this mense) and group 2 (n = 251, FET in the next mense). There were no differences in the clinical pregnancy rate (55.15% vs. 53.78%), implantation rate (39.32% vs. 37.2%), spontaneous miscarriage rate (10% vs. 8.89%), or live birth rate (45.96% vs. 45.02%) when comparing the two groups. Binary logistic regression indicated maternal age was negatively associated with the live birth rate, while FET following hysteroscopy in the same mense had no adverse effects on the live birth rate. Our data indicate performing FET concurrently with hysteroscopy in the same menstrual cycle does not impair the pregnancy outcomes, but additional studies with larger populations are needed to confirm these results.
AS1411 Aptamer-Anionic Linear Globular Dendrimer G2-Iohexol Selective Nano-Theranostics
Authors: Mohammadzadeh Pardis , Cohan Reza Ahangari , Ghoreishi Seyedeh Masoumeh , Bitarafan-Rajabi Ahmad , Ardestani Mehdi Shafiee
Published: September 2017

Molecular theranostics is of the utmost interest for diagnosis as well as treatment of different malignancies. In the present study, anionic linear globular dendrimer G2 is employed as a suitable carrier for delivery and AS1411 aptamer is exploited as the targeting agent to carry Iohexol specifically to the human breast cancer cells (MCF-7). Dendrimer G2 was prepared and conjugation of dendrimer and aptamer was carried out thereafter. Based on the data yielded by AFM, morphology of smooth and spherical non-targeted dendrimer changed to the rough aspherical shape when it conjugated. Then, conjugation was confirmed using DLS, ELS and SLS methods. Toxicity on nucleolin positive MCF-7 cells and nucleolin negative HEK-293 cells was assessed by XTT and apoptosis/necrosis assays. In vitro uptake was determined using DAPI-FITC staining and ICP-MS methods. In vivo studies including in vivo CT imaging, pathology and blood tests were done to confirm the imaging ability, bio-safety and targeted nature of the Nano-Theranostics in vivo. In a nutshell, the prepared construction showed promising effects upon decreasing the toxicity of Iohexol on normal cells and accumulation of it in the cancer tumors as well as reducing the number of cancer cells.
The roles of wettability and surface tension in droplet formation during inkjet printing
Authors: He Bing , Yang Sucui , Qin Zhangrong , Wen Binghai , Zhang Chaoying
Published: September 2017

This paper describes a lattice Boltzmann-based binary fluid model for inkjet printing. In this model, a time-dependent driving force is applied to actuate the droplet ejection. As a result, the actuation can be accurately controlled by adjusting the intensity and duration of the positive and negative forces, as well as the idle time. The present model was verified by reproducing the actual single droplet ejection process captured by fast imaging. This model was subsequently used to investigate droplet formation in piezoelectric inkjet printing. It was determined that the wettability of the nozzle inner wall and the surface tension of the ink are vital factors controlling the print quality and speed. Increasing the contact angle of the nozzle inner delays the droplet breakup time and reduces the droplet velocity. In contrast, higher surface tension values promote earlier droplet breakup and faster drop velocity. These results indicate that the hydrophilic modification of the nozzle inner wall and the choice of inks with high surface tensions will improve printing quality.
Activation of miR-34a-5p/Sirt1/p66shc pathway contributes to doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity
Authors: Zhu Jie-Ning , Fu Yong-Heng , Hu Zhi-qin , Li Wen-Yu , Tang Chun-Mei , Fei Hong-Wen , Yang Hui , Lin Qiu-xiong , Gou De-Ming , Wu Shu-Lin , Shan Zhi-Xin
Published: September 2017

The molecular mechanisms underlying anthracyclines-induced cardiotoxicity have not been well elucidated. MiRNAs were revealed dysregulated in the myocardium and plasma of rats received Dox treatment. MicroRNA-34a-5p (miR-34a-5p) was verified increased in the myocardium and plasma of Dox-treated rats, but was reversed in rats received Dox plus DEX treatments. Human miR-34a-5p was also observed increased in the plasma of patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma after 9- and 16-week epirubicin therapy. Up-regulation of miR-34a-5p was observed in Dox-induced rat cardiomyocyte H9c2 cells. MiR-34a-5p could augment Bax expression, but inhibited Bcl-2 expression, along with the increases of the activated caspase-3 and mitochondrial potentials in H9C2 cells. MiR-34a-5p was verified to modulate Sirt1 expression post-transcriptionally. In parallel to Sirt1 siRNA, miR-34a-5p could enhance p66shc expression, accompanied by increases of Bax and the activated caspase-3 and a decrease of Bcl-2 in H9c2 cells. Moreover, enforced expression of Sirt1 alleviated Dox-induced apoptosis of H9c2 cells, with suppressing levels of p66shc, Bax, the activated caspase-3 and miR-34a-5p, and enhancing Bcl-2 expression. Therefore, miR-34a-5p enhances cardiomyocyte apoptosis by targeting Sirt1, activation of miR-34a-5p/Sirt1/p66shc pathway contributes to Dox-induced cardiotoxicity, and blockage of this pathway represents a potential cardioprotective effect against anthracyclines.
Polydatin inhibits mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation by targeting PI3K/Akt, MAPK, NF-κB and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways
Authors: Ye Jing , Piao Hongmei , Jiang Jingzhi , Jin Guangyu , Zheng Mingyu , Yang Jinshi , Jin Xiang , Sun Tianyi , Choi Yun Ho , Li Liangchang , Yan Guanghai
Published: September 2017

Polydatin(PD) shows anti-allergic inflammatory effect, and this study investigated its underlying mechanisms inin vitroandin vivomodels. IgE-mediated passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) and passive systemic anaphylaxis (PSA) models were used to confirm PD effectin vivo. Various signaling pathway proteins in mast cell were examined. RT-PCR, ELISA and western blotting were applied when appropriate. Activity of Lyn and Fyn kinasesin vitrowas measured using the Kinase Enzyme System. PD dose-dependently reduced the pigmentation of Evans blue in the PCA model and decreased the concentration of serum histamine in PSA model, and attenuated the degranulation of mast cells without generating cytotoxicity. PD decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine expression (TNF-α, IL-4, IL-1β, and IL-8). PD directly inhibited activity of Lyn and Syk kinases and down-regulated downstream signaling pathway including MAPK, PI3K/AKT and NF-kB. In addition, PD also targets Nrf2/HO-1 pathway to inhibit mast cell-derived allergic inflammatory reactions. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that PD is a possible therapeutic candidate for allergic inflammatory diseases. It directly inhibited activity of Lyn and Syk kinases and down-regulates the signaling pathway of MAPK, PI3K/AKT and NF-κB, and up-regulates the signaling pathway of Nrf2/HO-1 to inhibit the degranulation of mast cells.
Correlation between polymorphisms of the NR3C1 gene and glucocorticoid effectiveness in patients with pemphigus vulgaris
Authors: Fang Si-Yue , Li Chun-Lei , Liu Xiao-Song , Chen Feng , Hua Hong
Published: September 2017

Abstracts

Glucocorticoid (GC) resistance is the major obscule in the treatment of pemphigus vulgaris (PV) for both patients and clinicans with unclear mechanism. A hypotheis for this resistance is the mutations or polymorphisms present in the nuclear receptor subfamily 3, group C, member 1 (NR3C1) gene that encodes receptors for steroid hormones. This study aimed to investigate the association between NR3C1 gene polymorphisms and GC effectiveness in PV patients. 94 PV patients (64 GC-sensitive and 30 GC-resistant) and 100 healthy volunteers were enrolled in this case-control study. The genotyping of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in BCL1, Arg23Lys, Asn363Ser 1548 t-insert, and le747Met, together with tag-SNP sites of the NR3C1 gene were evaluated. No significant differences were observed in genotypic and allelic frequencies of the 16 SNPs between PV patients and healthy volunteers. However, SNPs rs 11745958 C/T (OR: 8.95) and rs17209237 A/G (OR: 4.07) may be associated with an increased risk of GC resistance, while rs 33388 A/T (OR: 0.45) and rs7701443 A/G (OR: 0.51) may indicate a decreased risk of GC resistance in PV patients. NR3C1 gene variation may be associated with GC resistance in PV patients. More extensive genetic analyses and mechanistic analysis are required for further exploration.
Efficient incorporation of diverse components into metal organic frameworks via metal phenolic networks
Authors: Long Yangke , Xiao Ling , Cao Qihua , Shi Xiaowen , Wang Yunan
Published: September 2017

A general and rapid strategy was explored for metal organic frameworks coating on various core components mediated by metal phenolic networks.
Correction: An unsymmetrical non-fullerene acceptor: synthesis via direct heteroarylation, self-assembly, and utility as a low energy absorber in organic photovoltaic cells
Authors: Payne Abby-Jo , Li Shi , Dayneko Sergey V. , Risko Chad , Welch Gregory C.
Published: September 2017

Correction for ‘An unsymmetrical non-fullerene acceptor: synthesis via direct heteroarylation, self-assembly, and utility as a low energy absorber in organic photovoltaic cells’ by Abby-Jo Payne et al., Chem. Commun., 2017, 53, 10168–10171.
Highly sensitive iridium(iii) complex-based phosphorescent probe for thiophenol detection
Authors: Xiong Li , Yang Lin , Luo Shuai , Huang Yan , Lu Zhiyun
Published: September 2017

An iridium(iii) complex could serve as a highly sensitive, long-lifetime phosphorescence thiophenol probe, obtained through rational design.
In situ growth of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) on the surface of other MOFs: a new strategy for constructing magnetic resonance/optical dual mode imaging materials
Authors: Gao Xuechuan , Ji Guanfeng , Cui Ruixue , Liu Jingjuan , Liu Zhiliang
Published: September 2017

This work presents for the first time the synthesis of a novel nanoscale Fe-MOF/Eu-MOF heterostructure, which exhibits excellent magnetic resonance/optical imaging capacity and satisfactory drug delivery behavior.
Slow magnetisation relaxation in tetraoxolene-bridged rare earth complexes
Authors: Dunstan Maja A. , Rousset Elodie , Boulon Marie-Emmanuelle , Gable Robert W. , Sorace Lorenzo , Boskovic Colette
Published: September 2017

Two tetraoxolene-bridged dinuclear Dy(iii) complexes exhibit slow relaxation in ac magnetic susceptibility studies with zero-field quantum tunnelling of the magnetisation that is suppressed by the application of a dc magnetic field.
Highly enhanced visible light water splitting of CdS by green to blue upconversion
Authors: Chandrasekaran Sundaram , Ngo Yen-Linh Thi , Sui Lijun , Kim Eui Jung , Dang Dinh Khoi , Chung Jin Suk , Hur Seung Hyun
Published: September 2017

This paper reports a new class of visible light water splitting photocatalysts based on a triplet–triplet annihilation (TTA) upconversion (UC) process.
Degradation-induced capacitance: a new insight into the superior capacitive performance of polyaniline/graphene composites
Authors: Zhang Qin’e , Zhou An’an , Wang Jingjing , Wu Jifeng , Bai Hua
Published: September 2017

Degradation of PANI induces superior performance of PANI/graphene composite electrodes with the high conductivity matrix of graphene.
Photoassisted methanation using Cu2O nanoparticles supported on graphene as a photocatalyst
Authors: Mateo Diego , Albero Josep , García Hermenegildo
Published: September 2017

Photoassisted CO2 methanation can be carried out efficiently at 250 °C using Cu2O nanoparticles supported on few layer graphene (Cu2O/G) as a photocatalyst.
“Non-invasive” portable laser ablation sampling of art and archaeological materials with subsequent Sr–Nd isotope analysis by TIMS using 1013 Ω amplifiers
Authors: Knaf A. C. S. , Koornneef J. M. , Davies G. R.
Published: September 2017

A new integrated trace element and multi-isotope provenancing methodology is presented that uses a portable “non-invasive” pulsed laser ablation sampling device.
Screening for concanavalin A binders from a mannose-modified α-helix peptide phage library
Authors: Ven Chang Iou , Tsutsumi Hiroshi , Mihara Hisakazu
Published: September 2017

Mannose-modified ConA-binding peptides with a helical structure were obtained from a designed peptide phage library.
Hierarchical bilayered hybrid nanostructural arrays of NiCo2O4micro-urchins and nanowires as a free-standing electrode with high loading for high-performance lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Wang Yu , Liu Pengcheng , Zhu Kongjun , Wang Jing , Liu Jinsong
Published: September 2017

Fabrication of free-standing binary transition metal oxides, especially NiCo2O4, has attracted significant research interests since these metal oxides are promising candidates for free-standing anodes of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs).
A self-healable and tough nanocomposite hydrogel crosslinked by novel ultrasmall aluminum hydroxide nanoparticles
Authors: Jiang Haoyang , Zhang Gongzheng , Li Feibo , Zhang Yaqian , Lei Yu , Xia Yanhong , Jin Xianghu , Feng Xianqi , Li Huanjun
Published: September 2017

A tough hydrogel crosslinked by novel and ultrasmall aluminum hydroxide nanoparticles exhibits high self-healing efficiency.
Fully alloyed Ag/Au nanorods with tunable surface plasmon resonance and high chemical stability
Authors: Bai Yaocai , Gao Chuanbo , Yin Yadong
Published: September 2017

Fully alloyed Ag/Au nanorods were synthesized with highly tunable plasmonic properties and great chemical stability.
Enantioselective aminocatalytic synthesis of tetrahydropyrano[2,3-c]pyrazoles via a domino Michael-hemiacetalization reaction with alkylidene pyrazolones
Authors: Maity Rajendra , Pan Subhas Chandra
Published: September 2017

An enantioselective organocatalytic synthesis of fused tetrahydropyranopyrazole products has been achieved via a domino Michael-hemiacetalization reaction between alkylidene pyrazolones and cyclic ketones/pentanal.
Retraction: Self-limited growth of Pr3+-doped LaF3 nanocrystals in oxyfluoride glass and glass-ceramics
Authors: Mallik Amit , Barik Anil K. , Pal Biswajit
Published: September 2017

Retraction of ‘Self-limited growth of Pr3+-doped LaF3 nanocrystals in oxyfluoride glass and glass-ceramics’ Biswajit Pal et al., RSC Adv., 2017, 7, 14824–14831.
Optical tracking of relaxation dynamics in semi-dilute hydroxypropylcellulose solutions as a precise phase transition probe
Authors: Garate Hernan , Li King-Wo , Bouyer Denis , Guenoun Patrick
Published: September 2017

Phase separation of thermo-responsive polymers in solution is a complex process, whose understanding is improved by following the dynamical modes as the transition is approached.
Simulation-guided synthesis of graphitic carbon nitride beads with 3D interconnected and continuous meso/macropore channels for enhanced light absorption and photocatalytic performance
Authors: Li Yudong , Jiang Yanqiu , Ruan Zhaohui , Lin Kaifeng , Yu Zhuobin , Zheng Zhanfeng , Xu Xianzhu , Yuan Yuan
Published: September 2017

Millimeter-scale g-C3N4 beads with 3D continuous meso/macropore channels are synthesized guided by optical simulation confirming enhanced light absorption.
Gaudefroyite: a mineral with excellent magnetocaloric effect suitable for liquefying hydrogen
Authors: Li Rukang , Li Guangjing , Greaves Colin
Published: September 2017

A natural mineral, gaudefroyite, displays excellent low temperature magnetocaloric properties that are suitable for liquefying hydrogen.
Engineering defects into nickel-based nanosheets for enhanced water permeability
Authors: Ang Huixiang , Hong Liang
Published: September 2017

Engineering defects: the novel defect-rich structure introduces additional nanochannels into the membranes, which significantly enhances the water permeability.
Oxygen transport phenomena in (La,Sr)2(Ni,Fe)O4 materials
Authors: Gilev A. R. , Kiselev E. A. , Cherepanov V. A.
Published: September 2017

Oxygen conductivity of La1.5Sr0.5Ni1−yFeyO4+δ membranes.
Leakage-free polypyrrole–Au nanostructures for combined Raman detection and photothermal cancer therapy
Authors: Luo Xiaojun , Liu Xiaoyan , Pei Yinuo , Ling Yawen , Wu Ping , Cai Chenxin
Published: September 2017

A novel PPy–Au nanostructure with the bifunctionality of Raman detection and photothermal therapy of cancer is reported.
Organometallic phosphors as building blocks in sol–gel chemistry: luminescent organometallo-silica materials
Authors: Ezquerro C. , Sepúlveda A. E. , Grau-Atienza A. , Serrano E. , Lalinde E. , Berenguer J. R. , García-Martínez J.
Published: September 2017

When organometallics meet silica, the solid state mimics solution! Condensation of organometallic Ir(iii) and Pt(ii) phosphors with TEOS yields highly stable luminescent hybrid organometallo-silica materials with excellent optical and textural properties.
Novel liquid crystalline copolyester containing amphi-mesogenic units toward multiple stimuli-response behaviors
Authors: Zhong Hai-Yi , Chen Li , Liu Xiao-Feng , Yang Rong , Wang Yu-Zhong
Published: September 2017

Liquid crystalline copolyesters with amphi-mesogenic units consisting of azobenzene and biphenyl groups showed shape memory, revisible photo response and self-healing behaviors.
An intrinsic dual-emitting gold thiolate coordination polymer, [Au(+I)(p-SPhCO2H)]n, for ratiometric temperature sensing
Authors: Veselska Oleksandra , Okhrimenko Larysa , Guillou Nathalie , Podbevšek Darjan , Ledoux Gilles , Dujardin Christophe , Monge Miguel , Chevrier Daniel M. , Yang Rui , Zhang Peng , Fateeva Alexandra , Demessence Aude
Published: September 2017

Lamellar gold(i)-carboxythiophenolate exhibits intrinsic dual emission and a high sensitivity as a ratiometric thermometer.
Novel endogenous retrovirus-derived transcript expressed in the bovine placenta is regulated by WNT signaling
Authors: Sakurai Toshihiro , Nakagawa So , Bai Hanako , Bai Rulan , Kusama Kazuya , Ideta Atsushi , Aoyagi Yoshito , Kaneko Kazuyuki , Iga Kosuke , Yasuda Jiro , Miyazawa Takayuki , Imakawa Kazuhiko
Published: September 2017

Endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) are involved in placentation; perhaps, the most well-known ERVs are the syncytins, actively transcribed env genes involved in cell–cell fusion and possible morphological variations. However, ERVs other than syncytins that play an important role in placental development have not been well characterized. To identify ERV genes expressed during the onset of placentation in the bovine species, we characterized the expression profiles of bovine conceptus transcripts during the peri-attachment period using RNA-seq analysis, and confirming some candidates through real-time PCR. Using in silico and PCR analyses, we identified a novel ERV proviral sequence derived from a gag region, designated bovine endogenous retroviruses (BERV)-K3, containing Gag_p10 and Gag_p24, zinc finger domain. Initial expression of this ERV in bovine conceptuses was on day 20 (day 0 = day of estrus), soon after conceptus attachment to the endometrial epithelium, and its high placental expression was maintained up to the middle of pregnancy. The BERV-K3 transcript was also found in the uterine luminal and glandular epithelia, liver, kidney, intestine, and skin. BERV-K3 is located on chromosome 7 and integrated within LOC100848658, from which noncoding RNA could be transcribed. Furthermore, the expression of endogenous BERV-K3 in bovine trophoblast cell lines was induced by a WNT agonist, a signaling system common to genes expressed in placentas. These data support the argument that during the evolutionary process, mammals incorporated not only similar ERV sequences, but also ERVs unique to individual species. BERV-K3 is in the latter case, likely providing functions unique to ruminant gestation.
X-ray data processing
Authors: Powell Harold R.
Published: September 2017

The method of molecular structure determination by X-ray crystallography is a little over a century old. The history is described briefly, along with developments in X-ray sources and detectors. The fundamental processes involved in measuring diffraction patterns on area detectors, i.e. autoindexing, refining crystal and detector parameters, integrating the reflections themselves and putting the resultant measurements on to a common scale are discussed, with particular reference to the most commonly used software in the field.
Interior permanent magnet motor‐based isolated on‐board integrated battery charger for electric vehicles
Authors: Abdel‐Khalik Ayman S. , Massoud Ahmed , Ahmed Shehab
Published: September 2017

This study proposes an isolated on‐board integrated battery charger using an interior permanent magnet (IPM) machine with a nine‐slot/eight‐pole combination or its multiples, and equipped with a non‐overlapped fractional slot concentrated winding. The proposed winding layout comprises three three‐phase winding sets that are connected in such a way as to provide six motor terminals. Hence, a six‐phase or two three‐phase converters will be required for propulsion. Under motoring mode, the machine can be effectively regarded as a six‐phase machine, which provides a high fault‐tolerant capability, and allows for a ‘limp home’ mode of operation. Additionally, all magneto motive force subharmonics are eliminated, which significantly reduces the induced rotor eddy current losses, when compared with a conventional three‐phase motor having the same slot/pole combination. In battery charging mode, the winding is reconfigured, so that the machine is considered as a three‐phase to six‐phase rotating transformer. A 40 kW IPM machine is designed and simulated under different modes of operation using two‐dimensional finite element analysis to validate the proposed concept. A small‐scale prototype machine is also used for experimental validation.
Printing technologies for the manufacturing of passive microwave components: antennas
Authors: Godlinski Dirk , Zichner Ralf , Zöllmer Volker , Baumann Reinhard R.
Published: September 2017

In this study, the application of printing technologies for the manufacturing of passive microwave components such as antennas is highlighted, and a detailed example is given. Common printing technologies such as inkjet, screen, and gravure printing become adjusted to print conductive inks for the manufacturing of printed antennas on flat substrates or even on three‐dimensional (3D) surfaces. Especially, printing technologies such as pad printing, micro‐jetting, dispensing, and aerosol jetting are candidates for the manufacturing of microwave components onto challenging 3D surfaces, which may facilitate new designs. Depending on the substrate, one technical challenge is to choose a proper metal ink in combination with a suitable thermal treatment to reach critical requirements such as electrical conductivity above 106 S/m or proper adhesion of the printed pattern for an antenna application. This study gives an overview and comparison of the state‐of‐the‐art materials, inks, printing processes, and options of subsequent thermal treatment. The challenges and possibilities for printed‐passive microwave components are discussed with regard to microwave applications. The development of a printed radio‐frequency identification antenna on a 3D surface is demonstrated, and the performance of the manufactured antenna is discussed in detail.
Realising advanced waveguide bandpass filters using additive manufacturing
Authors: Booth Paul A , Valles Lluch Elena
Published: September 2017

This study describes the realisation of an advanced waveguide bandpass filter using shaping of the resonator and coupling structures to enhance the radiofrequency performance. Additive manufacturing's inherent geometrical freedom is exploited in these structures. The method of creating a good starting point for optimisation using electro‐magnetic (EM) simulation tools is compared with standard techniques for waveguide filters. A simple filter is given as an example to demonstrate the suitability of the structures and manufacturing techniques followed by a more advanced filter function. Simulations are presented and compared with both measured performance and rectangular waveguide realisations. The advantages and disadvantages of the manufacturing process and complex geometries are discussed.