bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Concomitant Administration of a Histamine2 Receptor Antagonist and Proton Pump Inhibitor Enhances Gastric Acid Suppression
Authors: Abdul‐Hussein Mustafa , Freeman Janice , Castell Donald
Published: December 2015

Study Objective

Because it has been hypothesized that histamine2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs) might interfere with the action of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) when the drugs are given concomitantly, we sought to compare the pharmacodynamic effects of simultaneous administration of a PPI and an H2RA with the effects of each drug administered alone.

Design

Prospective, randomized, double‐blind, three‐way crossover study.

Setting

Esophageal motility laboratory at a large teaching hospital.

Subjects

Twenty‐one healthy volunteers.

Intervention

Subjects were randomized to one of three treatment arms: an H2RA (ranitidine 300 mg) plus placebo, a PPI (omeprazole 40 mg) plus placebo, or ranitidine 300 mg plus omeprazole 40 mg, all given once/day at 8 a.m., 30 minutes before a standard breakfast, for 1 week. The subjects then received the other two treatments, with each treatment period separated by a 1‐week washout period.

Measurements and Main Results

The primary outcome was length of time that the gastric pH remained higher than 4. Secondary outcomes were median gastric pH higher than 4 and percentage of time that the gastric pH remained higher than 4. On day 7, ambulatory intragastric pH was recorded over an 8‐hour period in each treatment arm. The combination of ranitidine and omeprazole resulted in a significantly longer time that the gastric pH remained higher than 4 (median 410.5 min [interquartile range (IQR) 298.5–454.25 min]) versus either omeprazole alone (median 356.7 min [IQR 254.9–419.2 min], p=0.023) or ranitidine alone (134.1 min [IQR 99.9–302.5 min], p<0.0001). Median gastric pH was also significantly higher when omeprazole and ranitidine were given in combination (pH 5.92 [IQR 4.75–6.46]) than either omeprazole alone (pH 4.88 [IQR 4.27–6.11], p=0.001) or ranitidine alone (pH 2.31 [IQR 2.04–5.27], p=0.0003). Likewise, the percentage of time that the gastric pH remained higher than 4 was significantly higher when omeprazole and ranitidine were given in combination (median 85.52%) than either omeprazole alone (74.31%, p=0.027) or ranitidine alone (27.94%, p=0.0002).

Conclusion

When a PPI and H2RA were administered concomitantly 30 minutes before breakfast, the H2RA did not decrease the acid suppressive ability of the PPI; rather, it improved gastric acid control. Thus these results failed to support the initial hypothesis of this study. Further prospective studies are needed to test these findings in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease as well as those with erosive esophagitis.
Idiographic quality of life assessment before radical cystectomy
Authors: Anderson Christopher B. , Rapkin Bruce , Reaves Brieyona C. , Sun Arony J. , Morganstern Bradley , Dalbagni Guido , Donat Machele , Herr Harry W. , Laudone Vincent P. , Bochner Bernard H.
Published: December 2015

Background

We sought to determine if idiographic, or self‐defined, measures added to our understanding of patients with bladder cancer's quality of life (QOL) prior to radical cystectomy (RC). We tested whether idiographic measures increased prediction of global QOL beyond standard (nomothetic) measures of QOL components.

Methods

We administered the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaires (QLQ)‐C30 and QLQ‐BLM30, and our own idiographic Quality of Life Appraisal Profile prior to RC. Idiographic measures included number of goal statements, distance from goal attainment, and ability to complete goal attainment activities. Multivariate linear regression was used to predict measures of global QOL and related constructs of life satisfaction and mental health.

Results

Two hundred fiftheen patients reported a median of 8 (interquartile range [IQR] 6, 11) goals and half had an average goal attainment rating above 6.9 out of 10 (IQR 5.5, 8.2). On multivariable analysis, QLQ‐C30 role functioning and QLQ‐BLM30 future perspective explained 15.7% of the variability in preoperative global QOL. Including goal attainment and activity difficulty explained an additional 12% of global QOL variance. Smaller gains were seen on measures of global health, life satisfaction, mental health, and activity, suggesting that idiographic measures capture aspects of QOL distinct from health and functional status defined by nomothetic scales.

Conclusions

Idiographic assessment of QOL added to prediction of global QOL above and beyond health‐related components measured using nomothetic instruments. This self‐defined information may be valuable in communicating with cancer patients about their QOL. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Scutellaria radix Extract as a Natural UV Protectant for Human Skin
Authors: Seok Jin Kyung , Kwak Jun Yup , Choi Go Woon , An Sang Mi , Kwak Jae‐Hoon , Seo Hyeong‐Ho , Suh Hwa‐Jin , Boo Yong Chool
Published: December 2015

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation induces oxidative injury and inflammation in human skin. Scutellaria radix (SR, the root of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi) contains flavonoids with high UV absorptivity and antioxidant properties. The purpose of this study was to examine the potential use of SR extract as an additive in cosmetic products for UV protection. SR extract and its butanol (BuOH) fraction strongly absorbed UV radiation and displayed free radical scavenging activity against 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radials and 2,2′‐azinobis‐(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) radicals. They also attenuated the UV‐induced death of HaCaT cells. Sunscreen creams, with or without supplementation of SR extract BuOH fraction, were tested in vivo in human trials to evaluate potential skin irritation and determine the sun protection factor (SPF). Both sunscreen creams induced no skin irritation. A sunscreen cream containing 24% ZnO showed an SPF value of 17.8, and it increased to 22.7 when supplemented with 5% SR extract BuOH fraction. This study suggests that SR‐derived materials are useful as safe cosmetic additives that provide UV protection. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Insights into the behavioral difference of water in the presence of GM1
Authors: Basu Ipsita , Manna Moutusi , Mukhopadhyay Chaitali
Published: November 2015

Studies on the structure and dynamics of interfacial water, emphasizing on the properties of water near the surface of biomolecules, are well reported, but there is a lack of evidence on the behavior of water near a comparatively rough surface containing molecules with a bulky head group like GM1. In this report we comparatively analyze the structure and dynamics of water as a function of distance from the lipid head group in GM1 containing lipid bilayers, with the lipid bilayers where GM1 is not present. This approach effectively demonstrates the behavioral difference and hence delayed convergence from bound water to bulk water in the presence of GM1 compared to a relatively smooth surface.
Internal Audit of Compliance with a Perioperative Checklist in a Tertiary Care Neurosurgical Unit
Authors: Gagné Jean-François , Labidi Moujahed , Turmel André
Published: December 2015

Background: In 1999, the Institute of Medicine reported that, in the United States, 44,000 to 98,000 people die annually as a result of avoidable medical errors. Among the many initiatives undertaken to stem avoidable surgical errors, the World Health Organization (WHO) Surgical Safety Checklist has certainly been one of the most successful. Many surgical units have implemented adapted versions of the WHO Surgical Safety Checklist, audited their performance and discussed issues relating to the implementation process. However, such literature is still lacking in neurosurgery. Methods: A prospective observational study of 171 neurosurgical cases was conducted over an 8-week period. An independent observer assessed compliance with and completeness of the three steps in the perioperative checklist: Sign-in, Time-out and Sign-out. Factors that may reduce compliance were also analyzed. Results: Compliance with the Sign-in, Time-out and Sign-out steps was 82%, 99% and 93% respectively. On average, 92% of the Time-out elements were verified. The emergent nature of a surgery was the only factor that caused a statistically significant reduction in compliance with the checklist. Overall compliance diminished during the observation period. Conclusion: In this internal audit study, compliance with the preoperative checklist reached a satisfactory level. Further work is still needed, however, on some aspects of our surgical strategy, namely, a relatively low compliance rate with the Sign-in process was recorded and emergent cases were associated with decreased performance.
Arginine behaviour after arginine or citrulline administration in older subjects
Authors: Moinard C. , Maccario J. , Walrand S. , Lasserre V. , Marc J. , Boirie Y. , Cynober L.
Published: December 2015

Arginine (ARG) and its precursor citrulline (CIT) are popular dietary supplements, especially for the elderly. However, age-related reductions in lean body mass and alterations in organ functions could change their bioavailability. Pharmacokinetics and tolerance to amino acid (AA) loads are poorly documented in elderly subjects. The objective here was to characterise the plasma kinetics of CIT and ARG in a single-dosing study design. Eight fasting elderly men underwent two separate isomolar oral loading tests (10 g of CIT or 9·94 g of ARG). Blood was withdrawn over an 8-h period to measure plasma AA concentrations. Only CIT, ornithine and ARG plasma concentrations were changed. Volume of distribution was not dependent on AA administered. Conversely, parameters related to ARG kinetics were strongly dependent on AA administered: after ARG load, elimination was higher (ARG>CIT; P=0·041) and admission period+time at peak concentration was lower (ARG<CIT; P=0·033), and the combination of both phenomena results in a marked increase in ARG availability when CIT was administered (ARG<CIT; P=0·033) compared with ARG administration itself. In conclusion, a single CIT administration in the elderly is safe and well tolerated, and CIT proves to be a better in vivo ARG precursor than ARG itself in healthy elderly subjects.
Vitamin D is associated with cardiopulmonary exercise capacity: results of two independent cohorts of healthy adults
Authors: Kaul A. , Gläser S. , Hannemann A. , Schäper C. , Nauck M. , Felix S. B. , Bollmann T. , Ewert R. , Friedrich N.
Published: December 2015

Vitamin D has an important role in calcium homeostasis and is known to have various health-promoting effects. Moreover, potential interactions between vitamin D and physical activity have been suggested. This study aims to investigate the relationship between 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and exercise capacity quantified by cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET). For this, 1377 participants from the Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP-1) and 750 participants from the independent SHIP-TREND cohort were investigated. Standardised incremental exercise tests on a cycle ergometer were performed to assess exercise capacity by VO2at anaerobic threshold, peakVO2, O2pulse and peak power output. Serum 25(OH)D levels were measured by an automated chemiluminescence immunoassay. In SHIP-1, 25(OH)D levels were positively associated with all considered parameters of cardiopulmonary exercise capacity. Subjects with high 25(OH)D levels (4th quartile) showed an up to 25 % higher exercise capacity compared with subjects with low 25(OH)D levels (1st quartile). All associations were replicated in the independent SHIP-TREND cohort and were independent of age, sex, season and other interfering factors. In conclusion, significant positive associations between 25(OH)D and parameters of CPET were detected in two large cohorts of healthy adults.
Variational formulation of relaxed and multi-region relaxed magnetohydrodynamics
Authors: Dewar R. L. , Yoshida Z. , Bhattacharjee A. , Hudson S. R.
Published: December 2015

Ideal magnetohydrodynamics (IMHD) is strongly constrained by an infinite number of microscopic constraints expressing mass, entropy and magnetic flux conservation in each infinitesimal fluid element, the latter preventing magnetic reconnection. By contrast, in the Taylor relaxation model for formation of macroscopically self-organized plasma equilibrium states, all these constraints are relaxed save for the global magnetic fluxes and helicity. A Lagrangian variational principle is presented that leads to a new, fully dynamical, relaxed magnetohydrodynamics (RxMHD), such that all static solutions are Taylor states but also allows state with flow. By postulating that some long-lived macroscopic current sheets can act as barriers to relaxation, separating the plasma into multiple relaxation regions, a further generalization, multi-region relaxed magnetohydrodynamics (MRxMHD) is developed.
Processed meat: the real villain?
Authors: Rohrmann Sabine , Linseisen Jakob
Published: December 2015

Meat is a food rich in protein, minerals such as iron and zinc as well as a variety of vitamins, in particular B vitamins. However, the content of cholesterol and saturated fat is higher than in some other food groups. Processed meat is defined as products usually made of red meat that are cured, salted or smoked (e.g. ham or bacon) in order to improve the durability of the food and/or to improve colour and taste, and often contain a high amount of minced fatty tissue (e.g. sausages). Hence, high consumption of processed foods may lead to an increased intake of saturated fats, cholesterol, salt, nitrite, haem iron, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and, depending upon the chosen food preparation method, also heterocyclic amines. Several large cohort studies have shown that a high consumption of processed (red) meat is related to increased overall and cause-specific mortality. A meta-analysis of nine cohort studies observed a higher mortality among high consumers of processed red meat (relative risk (RR) = 1·23; 95 % CI 1·17, 1·28, topv. bottom consumption category), but not unprocessed red meat (RR = 1·10; 95 % CI 0·98, 1·22). Similar associations were reported in a second meta-analysis. All studies argue that plausible mechanisms are available linking processed meat consumption and risk of chronic diseases such as CVD, diabetes mellitus or some types of cancer. However, the results of meta-analyses do show some degree of heterogeneity between studies, and it has to be taken into account that individuals with low red or processed meat consumption tend to have a healthier lifestyle in general. Hence, substantial residual confounding cannot be excluded. Information from other types of studies in man is needed to support a causal role of processed meat in the aetiology of chronic diseases, e.g. studies using the Mendelian randomisation approach.
Personality diatheses and Hurricane Sandy: effects on post-disaster depression
Authors: Kopala-Sibley D. C. , Kotov R. , Bromet E. J. , Carlson G. A. , Danzig A. P. , Black S. R. , Klein D. N.
Published: December 2015

Background

According to diathesis–stress models, personality traits, such as negative emotionality (NE) and positive emotionality (PE), may moderate the effects of stressors on the development of depression. However, relatively little empirical research has directly examined whether NE and PE act as diatheses in the presence of stressful life events, and no research has examined whether they moderate the effect of disaster exposure on depressive symptoms. Hurricane Sandy, the second costliest hurricane in US history, offers a unique opportunity to address these gaps.

Method

A total of 318 women completed measures of NE and PE 5 years prior to Hurricane Sandy. They were also assessed for lifetime depressive disorders on two occasions, the latter occurring an average of 1 year before the hurricane. Approximately 8 weeks after the disaster (mean = 8.40, s.d. = 1.48 weeks), participants completed a hurricane stress exposure questionnaire and a measure of current depressive symptoms.

Results

Adjusting for lifetime history of depressive disorders, higher levels of stress from Hurricane Sandy predicted elevated levels of depressive symptoms, but only in participants with high levels of NE or low levels of PE.

Conclusions

These findings support the role of personality in the development of depression and suggest that personality traits can be useful in identifying those most vulnerable to major stressors, including natural disasters.
The structure of adolescent psychopathology: a symptom-level analysis
Authors: Carragher N. , Teesson M. , Sunderland M. , Newton N. C. , Krueger R. F. , Conrod P. J. , Barrett E. L. , Champion K. E. , Nair N. K. , Slade T.
Published: December 2015

Background

Most empirical studies into the covariance structure of psychopathology have been confined to adults. This work is not developmentally informed as the meaning, age-of-onset, persistence and expression of disorders differ across the lifespan. This study investigates the underlying structure of adolescent psychopathology and associations between the psychopathological dimensions and sex and personality risk profiles for substance misuse and mental health problems.

Method

This study analyzed data from 2175 adolescents aged 13.3 years. Five dimensional models were tested using confirmatory factor analysis and the external validity was examined using a multiple-indicators multiple-causes model.

Results

A modified bifactor model, with three correlated specific factors (internalizing, externalizing, thought disorder) and one general psychopathology factor, provided the best fit to the data. Females reported higher mean levels of internalizing, and males reported higher mean levels of externalizing. No significant sex differences emerged in liability to thought disorder or general psychopathology. Liability to internalizing, externalizing, thought disorder and general psychopathology was characterized by a number of differences in personality profiles.

Conclusions

This study is the first to identify a bifactor model including a specific thought disorder factor. The findings highlight the utility of transdiagnostic treatment approaches and the importance of restructuring psychopathology in an empirically based manner.
A CELL GROWTH MODEL ADAPTED FOR THE MINIMUM CELL SIZE DIVISION
Authors: VAN BRUNT B. , GUL S. , WAKE G. C.
Published: December 2015

We study a cell growth model with a division function that models cells which divide only after they have reached a certain minimum size. In contrast to the cases studied in the literature, the determination of the steady size distribution entails an eigenvalue that is not known explicitly, but is defined through a continuity condition. We show that there is a steady size distribution solution to this problem.
The Racialization of Legal Categories in the First U.S. Census
Authors: Jean Emigh Rebecca , Riley Dylan , Ahmed Patricia
Published: December 2015

This paper examines the demographic categories in the first few US censuses, which are asymmetrical combinations of race and legal status not mandated by the US Constitution. State actors explicitly introduced and revised these categories; however, these state actors successfully introduced these categories into the census only when they were already widespread throughout society. Thus, more generally, the paper points to flaws in a “state-centered” view of information gathering, which stresses how state actors create census categories that, in turn, shape social conditions as they become subsequently widespread. In contrast, this paper suggests that politicians draw on widespread social categories when creating census categories, showing how state and social influences interact to create the information in censuses.
Dating Violence Victimization, Interpersonal Needs, and Suicidal Ideation Among College Students
Authors: Wolford-Clevenger Caitlin , Elmquist JoAnna , Brem Meagan , Zapor Heather , Stuart Gregory L.
Published: December 2015

Abstract. Background: Victims of dating violence experience suicidal ideation at a higher rate than the general population. However, very few studies have examined the relationship between dating violence and suicidal ideation within an empirically supported theory of suicide. The interpersonal-psychological theory of suicide posits that thwarted interpersonal needs (i.e., thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness) are proximal antecedents to suicidal ideation. The experience of dating violence may thwart such interpersonal needs, thus increasing risk for suicidal ideation. Aims: We aimed to examine the relationships among dating violence, thwarted interpersonal needs, and suicidal ideation and test the interpersonal-psychological theory of suicide. Method: We conducted two cross-sectional studies on college students in dating relationships to examine these research questions. Results: Study 1 indicated positive correlations among dating violence (i.e., physical and psychological), thwarted belongingness, and perceived burdensomeness. Study 2 generally replicated the bivariate relationships of Study 1 and demonstrated that, at high levels of thwarted belongingness, perceived burdensomeness was correlated with suicidal ideation, while accounting for the effects of depressive symptoms and drug use. Conclusion: These results highlight the importance of using theory-guided research to understand the relationship between dating violence and suicidal ideation.
Emergency Department Visits Prior to Suicide and Homicide
Authors: Cerel Julie , Singleton Michael D. , Brown Margaret M. , Brown Sabrina V. , Bush Heather M. , Brancado Candice J.
Published: December 2015

Abstract. Background: Emergency departments (EDs) serve a wide range of patients who present at risk of impending suicide and homicide. Aims: Two statewide surveillance systems were probabilistically linked to understand who utilizes EDs and then dies violently within 6 weeks. Method: Each identified case was matched with four randomly selected controls on sex, race, date of birth, resident zip code, and date of ED visit vs. date of death. Matched-pair odds ratios were estimated by conditional logistic regression to assess differences between cases and controls on reported diagnoses and expected payment sources. Results: Of 1,599 suicides and 569 homicides in the 3-year study period, 10.7% of decedents who died by suicide (x = 13.6 days) and 8.3% who died by homicide (x = 16.3 days) were seen in a state ED within 6 weeks prior to death. ED attendees who died by suicide were more likely to have a diagnosis of injury/ poisoning diagnosis or mental disorder and more likely to have Medicare. Those who died by homicide were more likely to have a diagnosis of injury/poisoning and less likely to have commercial insurance. Conclusion: It is essential for research to further explore risk factors for imminent suicide and homicide in ED patients who present for psychiatric conditions and general injuries.
Convection Cycles, Atmosphere, and Ocean Work Symbiotically
Authors: Strelich Lily
Published: December 2015

Scientists review studies of the tropical Madden-Julian Oscillation to better frame its role in air-sea interactions.
A biomimetic hybrid nanoplatform for encapsulation and precisely controlled delivery of theranostic agents
Authors: Wang Hai , Agarwal Pranay , Zhao Shuting , Yu Jianhua , Lu Xiongbin , He Xiaoming
Published: December 2015

Nanoparticles have demonstrated great potential for enhancing drug delivery. However, the low drug encapsulation efficiency at high drug-to-nanoparticle feeding ratios and minimal drug loading content in nanoparticle at any feeding ratios are major hurdles to their widespread applications. Here we report a robust eukaryotic cell-like hybrid nanoplatform (EukaCell) for encapsulation of theranostic agents (doxorubicin and indocyanine green). The EukaCell consists of a phospholipid membrane, a cytoskeleton-like mesoporous silica matrix and a nucleus-like fullerene core. At high drug-to-nanoparticle feeding ratios (for example, 1:0.5), the encapsulation efficiency and loading content can be improved by 58 and 21 times, respectively, compared with conventional silica nanoparticles. Moreover, release of the encapsulated drug can be precisely controlled via dosing near infrared laser irradiation. Ultimately, the ultra-high (up to ∼87%) loading content renders augmented anticancer capacity both in vitro and in vivo. Our EukaCell is valuable for drug delivery to fight against cancer and potentially other diseases.
Comparative proteomic analysis of compartmentalised Ras signalling
Authors: Hernandez-Valladares Maria , Prior Ian A.
Published: December 2015

Ras proteins are membrane bound signalling hubs that operate from both the cell surface and endomembrane compartments. However, the extent to which intracellular pools of Ras can contribute to cell signalling is debated. To address this, we have performed a global screen of compartmentalised Ras signalling. We find that whilst ER/Golgi- and endosomal-Ras only generate weak outputs, Ras localised to the mitochondria or Golgi significantly and distinctly influence both the abundance and phosphorylation of a wide range of proteins analysed. Our data reveal that ~80% of phosphosites exhibiting large (≥1.5-fold) changes compared to control can be modulated by organellar Ras signalling. The majority of compartmentalised Ras-specific responses are predicted to influence gene expression, RNA splicing and cell proliferation. Our analysis reinforces the concept that compartmentalisation influences Ras signalling and provides detailed insight into the widespread modulation of responses downstream of endomembranous Ras signalling.
Targeting TRPV1 for Body Weight Control using TRPV1−/− Mice and Electroacupuncture
Authors: Choowanthanapakorn Monchanok , Lu Kung-Wen , Yang Jun , Hsieh Ching-Liang , Lin Yi-Wen
Published: December 2015

Obesity is a global social medical problem resulting in morbidity as high as 20–30%. Here we investigated whether the manipulation of TRPV1 can control mice body weight through electroacupuncture (EA). The results demonstrated that body weight increased with time in the control group (108.19 ± 1.31%, n = 7). The increase of mice body weight was significantly less in the EA group (104.41 ± 0.76%, p < 0.05, compared with the control group, n = 7) but not in the sham EA group (109.1 ± 0.63%, p < 0.05, compared with EA group, n = 7). EA did not decrease the gain of body weight in TRPV1 knock mice (107.94 ± 0.41% and 107.79 ± 1.04% for TRPV1−/− and TRPV1−/− with EA, respectively, p > 0.05). The visceral white adipose tissue (WAT) weight was lower in the EA group at 4 weeks after manipulation. Moreover, the protein levels of TRPV1, pPKA, pPKC and pERK were increased in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and spinal cord (SC) after EA treatment but not in the sham EA and TRPV1−/− mice. This study suggests that targeting TRPV1 is beneficial in controlling body weight and TRPV1-associated mechanisms in mice.
Acetylation of glucokinase regulatory protein decreases glucose metabolism by suppressing glucokinase activity
Authors: Park Joo-Man , Kim Tae-Hyun , Jo Seong-Ho , Kim Mi-Young , Ahn Yong-Ho
Published: December 2015

Glucokinase (GK), mainly expressed in the liver and pancreatic β-cells, is critical for maintaining glucose homeostasis. GK expression and kinase activity, respectively, are both modulated at the transcriptional and post-translational levels. Post-translationally, GK is regulated by binding the glucokinase regulatory protein (GKRP), resulting in GK retention in the nucleus and its inability to participate in cytosolic glycolysis. Although hepatic GKRP is known to be regulated by allosteric mechanisms, the precise details of modulation of GKRP activity, by post-translational modification, are not well known. Here, we demonstrate that GKRP is acetylated at Lys5 by the acetyltransferase p300. Acetylated GKRP is resistant to degradation by the ubiquitin-dependent proteasome pathway, suggesting that acetylation increases GKRP stability and binding to GK, further inhibiting GK nuclear export. Deacetylation of GKRP is effected by the NAD+-dependent, class III histone deacetylase SIRT2, which is inhibited by nicotinamide. Moreover, the livers of db/db obese, diabetic mice also show elevated GKRP acetylation, suggesting a broader, critical role in regulating blood glucose. Given that acetylated GKRP may affiliate with type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), understanding the mechanism of GKRP acetylation in the liver could reveal novel targets within the GK-GKRP pathway, for treating T2DM and other metabolic pathologies.
Spliced leader RNA trans-splicing discovered in copepods
Authors: Yang Feifei , Xu Donghui , Zhuang Yunyun , Yi Xiaoyan , Huang Yousong , Chen Hongju , Lin Senjie , Campbell David A. , Sturm Nancy R. , Liu Guangxing , Zhang Huan
Published: December 2015

Copepods are one of the most abundant metazoans in the marine ecosystem, constituting a critical link in aquatic food webs and contributing significantly to the global carbon budget, yet molecular mechanisms of their gene expression are not well understood. Here we report the detection of spliced leader (SL) trans-splicing in calanoid copepods. We have examined nine species of wild-caught copepods from Jiaozhou Bay, China that represent the major families of the calanoids. All these species contained a common 46-nt SL (CopepodSL). We further determined the size of CopepodSL precursor RNA (slRNA; 108-158 nt) through genomic analysis and 3′-RACE technique, which was confirmed by RNA blot analysis. Structure modeling showed that the copepod slRNA folded into typical slRNA secondary structures. Using a CopepodSL-based primer set, we selectively enriched and sequenced copepod full-length cDNAs, which led to the characterization of copepod transcripts and the cataloging of the complete set of 79 eukaryotic cytoplasmic ribosomal proteins (cRPs) for a single copepod species. We uncovered the SL trans-splicing in copepod natural populations and demonstrated that CopepodSL was a sensitive and specific tool for copepod transcriptomic studies at both the individual and population levels and that it would be useful for metatranscriptomic analysis of copepods.
Within patient microevolution of Mycobacterium tuberculosis correlates with heterogeneous responses to treatment
Authors: Liu Qingyun , Via Laura E. , Luo Tao , Liang Lili , Liu Xin , Wu Sufang , Shen Qingyu , Wei Wang , Ruan Xianglin , Yuan Xing , Zhang Guolong , Barry Clifton E. , Gao Qian
Published: December 2015

Genetic heterogeneity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) within a patient has caused great concern as it might complicate antibiotic treatment and cause treatment failure. But the extent of genetic heterogeneity has not been described in detail nor has its association with heterogeneous treatment response. During treatment of a subject with MDR-TB, serial computed tomography (CT) scans showed this subject had six anatomically discrete lesions and they responded to treatment with disparate kinetics, suggesting heterogeneous MTB population may exist. To investigate this heterogeneity, we applied deep whole genome sequencing of serial sputum isolates and discovered that the MTB population within this patient contained three dominant sub-clones differing by 10 ~ 14 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Differential mutation patterns in known resistance alleles indicated these sub-clones had different drug-resistance patterns, which may explain the heterogeneous treatment responses between lesions. Our results showed clear evidence of branched microevolution of MTB in vivo, which led to a diverse bacterial community. These findings indicated that complex sub-populations of MTB might coexist within patient and contribute to lesions’ disparate responses to antibiotic treatment.
Quantum Zeno and Zeno-like effects in nitrogen vacancy centers
Authors: Qiu Jing , Wang Yang-Yang , Yin Zhang-Qi , Zhang Mei , Ai Qing , Deng Fu-Guo
Published: December 2015

We present a proposal to realize the quantum Zeno effect (QZE) and quantum Zeno-like effect (QZLE) in a proximal 13C nuclear spin by controlling a proximal electron spin of a nitrogen vacancy (NV) center. The measurement is performed by applying a microwave pulse to induce the transition between different electronic spin states. Under the practical experimental conditions, our calculations show that there exist both QZE and QZLE in a 13C nuclear spin in the vicinity of an NV center.
The significant association of Taq1A genotypes in DRD2/ANKK1 with smoking cessation in a large-scale meta-analysis of Caucasian populations
Authors: Ma Y , Wang M , Yuan W , Su K , Li M D
Published: December 2015

Although a number of studies have analyzed the relation between the DRD2/ANKK1 gene Taq1A polymorphism and smoking cessation, the results remain controversial. The primary objective of the present study was to determine whether this variant indeed has any effect on smoking cessation. The A1-dominant model that considers A1/* (*=A1 or A2) and A2/A2 as two genotypes and compares their frequencies in current and former smokers was applied. A total of 22 studies with 11 075 subjects were included in the meta-analyses. Considering the potential influence of between-study heterogeneity, we conducted stratified meta-analyses with the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis statistical software (version 2.0). Results based on either cross-sectional or longitudinal studies consistently showed a statistically significant association between Taq1A A1/* genotypes and smoking cessation. Further, a more significant association of the variant with smoking cessation was detected when both types of studies were combined. However, there was marginal evidence of heterogeneity among studies (I2=33.9%; P=0.06). By excluding other ethnicities and subjects with cancer, the meta-analysis on the basis of 9487 Caucasians demonstrated that Taq1A A1/* genotypes indeed were significantly associated with smoking cessation under both the fixed- and random-effects models (pooled OR 1.22; 95% CI 1.11–1.34; P=3.9 × 10−5 for both models). No evidence of between-study heterogeneity or publication bias was observed. Thus, we conclude that the polymorphism of Taq1A has an important role in the process of abstaining from smoking, and smokers carrying A2/A2 genotype have a higher likelihood of smoking cessation than those who carry A1/A1 or A1/A2.
Tetra-cationic imidazoliumyl-substituted phosphorus–sulfur heterocycles from a cationic organophosphorus sulfide
Authors: Henne Florian D. , Watt Fabian A. , Schwedtmann Kai , Hennersdorf Felix , Kokoschka Malte , Weigand Jan J.
Published: December 2015

The formation of novel tetracationic cyclo-P4S4 derivatives [LPS]44+via oligomerization of [LPS]+ is presented. Subsequent deoligomerization- and dismutation reactions induced by 4-dimethylaminopyridine are discussed herein.
Template-free synthesis of porous graphitic carbon nitride/carbon composite spheres for electrocatalytic oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Fu Xiaorui , Hu Xiaofei , Yan Zhenhua , Lei Kaixiang , Li Fujun , Cheng Fangyi , Chen Jun
Published: December 2015

Porous graphitic carbon nitride/carbon composite spheres synthesized from glucose, melamine and cyanuric acid precursors via a template-free route efficiently catalyze the electrochemical oxygen reduction.
A perspective on the growth-only zone, the secondary nucleation threshold and crystal size distribution in solution crystallisation
Authors: Threlfall Terence L. , Coles Simon J.
Published: December 2015

The metastable zone between the solubility curve and the crystallisation curve can be divided into two regions, separated by the secondary nucleation threshold.
Growth of sub-nanometric palladium clusters on boron nitride nanotubes: a DFT study
Authors: Schimmenti Roberto , Cortese Remedios , Ferrante Francesco , Prestianni Antonio , Duca Dario
Published: December 2015

Boron nitride nanotubes as a template for the growth of sub-nanometric palladium clusters.
TiO2/CdS porous hollow microspheres rapidly synthesized by salt-assistant aerosol decomposition method for excellent photocatalytic hydrogen evolution performance
Authors: Huang Yu , Chen Jun , Zou Wei , Zhang Linxing , Hu Lei , He Min , Gu Lin , Deng Jinxia , Xing Xianran
Published: December 2015

TiO2/CdS porous hollow microspheres have been one-pot rapidly synthesized and exhibit an excellent photocatalytic activity of 996 μmol h−1 under visible light.
Photoinduced charge transfer processes in solar photocatalysis based on modified TiO2
Authors: Park Hyunwoong , Kim Hyoung-il , Moon Gun-hee , Choi Wonyong
Published: December 2015

High efficiency solar photocatalysis requires an effective separation of photogenerated charge carriers and their rapid transport to the semiconductor interface.
A mild biomass pretreatment using γ-valerolactone for concentrated sugar production
Authors: Shuai Li , Questell-Santiago Ydna M. , Luterbacher Jeremy S.
Published: December 2015

Here we report that γ-valerolactone (GVL), a biomass-derived solvent, can be used to facilitate the mild pretreatment of lignocellulosic biomass.
Prediction of drug–target interaction by label propagation with mutual interaction information derived from heterogeneous network
Authors: Yan Xiao-Ying , Zhang Shao-Wu , Zhang Song-Yao
Published: December 2015

By implementing label propagation on drug/target similarity network with mutual interaction information derived from drug–target heterogeneous network, LPMIHN algorithm identifies potential drug–target interactions.
Neurospora crassa transcriptomics reveals oxidative stress and plasma membrane homeostasis biology genes as key targets in response to chitosan
Authors: Lopez-Moya Federico , Kowbel David , Nueda Ma José , Palma-Guerrero Javier , Glass N. Louise , Lopez-Llorca Luis Vicente
Published: December 2015

In this work we performed the first transcriptional study of a filamentous fungus (N. crassa) in response to chitosan.
Nanogenerators based on vertically aligned InN nanowires
Authors: Liu Guocheng , Zhao Songrui , Henderson Robert D. E. , Leonenko Zoya , Abdel-Rahman Eihab , Mi Zetian , Ban Dayan
Published: December 2015

Piezoelectric nanogenerators (NGs) based on vertically aligned InN nanowires (NWs) are fabricated, characterized, and evaluated.
(7S)-Kaitocephalin as a potent NMDA receptor selective ligand
Authors: Yasuno Yoko , Hamada Makoto , Kawasaki Masanori , Shimamoto Keiko , Shigeri Yasushi , Akizawa Toshifumi , Konishi Motomi , Ohfune Yasufumi , Shinada Tetsuro
Published: December 2015

A structure–activity relationship (SAR) study of kaitocephalin, known to be a potent naturally occurring NMDA receptor ligand, was performed.
Stimuli-responsive supramolecular materials: photo-tunable properties and molecular recognition behavior
Authors: Huang Cheng-Wei , Wu Pei-Wei , Su Wei-Hung , Zhu Chao-Yuan , Kuo Shiao-Wei
Published: December 2015

A supramolecular system stabilized through complementary hydrogen bonding and displaying stimuli-responsive behavior has been fabricated into “recordable” and “rewritable” surface relief gratings operated under laser illumination.
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)-armed polymer–lipid nanoparticles for the targeted delivery of cisplatin in thyroid cancers: therapeutic efficacy evaluation
Authors: Gao Xue-jun , Li Ai-qin , Zhang Xin , Liu Ping , Wang Jue-Ru , Cai Xia
Published: December 2015

Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)-conjugated polymer–lipid hybrid nanoparticles (TPLHC) were developed for the targeted delivery of cisplatin (CDDP) in thyroid cancers.
Towards understanding the stability of the N5+-containing salts: the role of counterions
Authors: Yu Yi , Li Yu-chuan , Chen Ji-feng , Sun Cheng-hui , Li Jin-shan , Fan Gui-juan , Pang Si-ping , Zhang Ru-bo
Published: December 2015

The role of counterions of N5+-containing salts in stabilizing N5+ cations was studied by means of density functional theory.
Towards comprehension of complex chemical evolution and diversification of terpene and phenylpropanoid pathways in Ocimum species
Authors: Singh Priyanka , Kalunke Raviraj M. , Giri Ashok P.
Published: December 2015

Evolution of chemical diversity and diversification of terpene and phenylpropanoid pathway inOcimumspecies.
Investigating the effect of sparger configuration on the hydrodynamics of a full-scale membrane bioreactor using computational fluid dynamics
Authors: Amini Ershad , Mehrnia Mohammad Reza , Mousavi Seyyed Mohammad , Azami Hamed , Mostoufi Navid
Published: December 2015

A three-phase computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation was carried out in a full-scale membrane bioreactor to investigate the effect of sparger configuration on various hydrodynamic parameters.
Antibacterial surfaces based on functionally graded photocatalytic Fe3O4@TiO2 core–shell nanoparticle/epoxy composites
Authors: Nardi Tommaso , Rtimi Sami , Pulgarin Cesar , Leterrier Yves
Published: December 2015

Functionally graded epoxy composites with various concentration profiles of Fe3O4@TiO2 core–shell nanoparticles (NPs) were synthetized and characterized, with focus on their antibacterial properties.
Following heterogeneous nucleation of CO2 on H2O ice nanoparticles with microsecond resolution
Authors: Tanimura Shinobu , Park Yensil , Amaya Andrew , Modak Viraj , Wyslouzil Barbara E.
Published: December 2015

Heterogeneous nucleation of CO2 on H2O ice particles in supersonic nozzles.
A scandium-doped manganate anode for a proton-conducting solid oxide steam electrolyzer
Authors: Gan Lizhen , Ye Lingting , Liu Mingzhou , Tao Shanwen , Xie Kui
Published: December 2015

In this work, catalytic active Sc has been doped into perovskite La0.8Sr0.2MnO3−δlattice to enhance electrode activity and promising electrode performance for steam oxidation has been obtained.
Advances in hydrogen sulphide utilisation: phase transfer catalysed selective reduction of nitronaphthalene
Authors: Mondal Ujjal , Sen Sujit , Singh Gaurav
Published: December 2015

Phase transfer catalysed selective Zinin reduction of 1-nitronaphthalene by hydrogen sulphide laden aqueousN-methyldiethanolamine.
Facile synthesis of pure phase γ-AlOOH and γ-Al2O3nanofibers in a recoverable ionic liquid via a low temperature route
Authors: Cai Yuan , Huang Huihui , Wang Lei , Zhang Xiaojun , Yuan Yuewei , Li Rui , Wan Hui , Guan Guofeng
Published: December 2015

Mesoporous γ-AlOOH and γ-Al2O3with fibrous morphology were successfully synthesized by an ionic liquid ([OMim]Br) assisted low temperature precipitation method using aluminum nitrate and ammonia as aluminum source and precipitant, respectively.
Synthesis and characterization of organotriphosphonate-functionalized TM-containing polyoxotungstates
Authors: Huo Yu , Li Dandan , Wan Rong , Ma Pengtao , Zhang Dongdi , Niu Jingyang , Wang Jingping
Published: December 2015

A new family of organotriphosphonate-functionalized TM-containing polyoxotungstates, K4H6[H4{(AsW9O33)TM(H2O)W5O11(N(CH2PO3)3)}2(μ2-O)2]·24H2O [TM = Ni (1), Co (2), Mn (3)], have been synthesized from the preformed POM precursor [As2W19O67(H2O)]14−.
Hierarchical TiO2–B/anatase core/shell nanowire arrays for efficient dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Chen Hong-Yan , Fan Jie , Rao Hua-Shang , Feng Hao-Lin , Li Wen-Guang , Kuang Dai-Bin , Su Cheng-Yong
Published: December 2015

Hierarchical TiO2–B/anatase core/shell heterojunction nanowire arrays on a titanium plate substrate are synthesized and used as novel photoanode materials for DSSCs.
pH-Switchable electroactive composite films of carboxylated multi-walled carbon nanotubes and Prussian blue
Authors: Tong Ying , Wang Yuanyuan , Gao Bowen , Su Lei , Zhang Xueji
Published: December 2015

Here the combination of carboxylated multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CMWCNTs) and Prussian blue (PB) for fabricating pH-responsive electroactive composite thin films is reported.
Photo-cross-linked poly(ether amine) micelles for controlled drug release
Authors: He Haozhe , Ren Yanrong , Dou Yuge , Ding Tao , Fang Xiaomin , Xu Yuanqing , Xu Hao , Zhang Wenkai , Xie Zhigang
Published: December 2015

In order to improve the stability of micelles and decrease the burst release of loaded drugs, photo-cross-linked micelles were prepared via photodimerization of the coumarin moiety on amphiphilic poly(ether amine) (PEAC).
Observation of high-temperature magnetic transition and existence of ferromagnetic short-range correlations above transition in double perovskite La2FeMnO6
Authors: Pezhumkattil Palakkal Jasnamol , Lekshmi P. Neenu , Thomas Senoy , Suresh K. G. , Varma Manoj Raama
Published: December 2015

We present the observation of a high-temperature magnetic transition along with ferromagnetic short-range correlations (FSCs) in La2FeMnO6 perovskite system.
Oxidation of lignin and lignin β-O-4 model compounds via activated dimethyl sulfoxide
Authors: Mobley Justin K. , Yao Soledad G. , Crocker Mark , Meier Mark
Published: December 2015

Oxidation of lignin and β-O-4 models using activated DMSO compounds can give ketones or enol ethers.
Rational design of a water-soluble, lipid-compatible fluorescent probe for Cu(i) with sub-part-per-trillion sensitivity
Authors: Morgan M. T. , McCallum A. M. , Fahrni C. J.
Published: December 2015

Knowledge-driven optimization of the ligand and fluorophore architectures yielded an ultrasensitive Cu(i)-selective fluorescent probe featuring a 180-fold fluorescence contrast and 41% quantum yield.
Dichotomous mechanistic behavior in Narasaka–Heck cyclizations: electron rich Pd-catalysts generate iminyl radicals
Authors: Race Nicholas J. , Faulkner Adele , Shaw Megan H. , Bower John F.
Published: December 2015

Pd-catalyzed cyclizations of oxime esters with pendant alkenes undergo ligand controlled mechanistic divergence. Electron deficient phosphines promote aza-Heck cyclization; electron rich systems favour a SET pathway. Mechanistic experiments differentiate the two manifolds.
Activity and durability of the oxygen reduction reaction in a nitrogen-doped rutile-shell on TiN-core nanocatalysts synthesised via solution-phase combustion
Authors: Chisaka M. , Ando Y. , Itagaki N.
Published: December 2015

The ORR active rutile-shell successfully protected the TiN-core without altering the mechanism during 20 000 cycles in acidic media.
Using membrane composition to fine-tune the pKa of an optical liposome pH sensor
Authors: Clear Kasey J. , Virga Katelyn , Gray Lawrence , Smith Bradley D.
Published: December 2015

Anionic phospholipids in liposomes can be used to fine-tune membrane-anchored dye pKa by up to 1 pH unit.