bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HHV-8 infection and multiple myeloma
Authors: Sjak-Shie N N , Vescio R A , Berenson J R
Published: January 2018

Human herpes virus 8 (HHV-8) also known as Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpes virus has been strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), primary effusion lymphoma, and multicentric Castleman disease. Recently, this gamma-herpes virus was also found in the nonmalignant bone marrow dendritic cells of the majority of myeloma patients. In addition, HHV-8 is also detectable in the peripheral blood of most myeloma patients. In contrast, this virus is rarely detected in close contacts of myeloma patients or healthy subjects. Furthermore, only about one-third of patients with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) are infected with HHV-8. Sequencing of HHV-8 DNA isolated from myeloma patients shows both interpatient differences and conserved differences unique to myeloma compared to HHV-8 in other malignancies. Consistent expression of both the viral homologs of interferon regulatory factor and interleukin-8 receptor in myeloma suggests a possible role for these transforming viral genes in the pathogenesis of this disease. J. Leukoc. Biol. 66: 357–360; 1999.
The potential application of ribozymes for the treatment of hematological disorders
Authors: James Helen A
Published: January 2018

With the identification and increasing understanding of the genes involved in neoplastic transformation has come the realization that abrogation of these genes' products may lead to cell death or a return to normalcy. The use of ribozymes and their nucleic acid cousins, antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs), are two such ways of perturbing the disease-related gene expression. This review will look at the development and application of ribozymes to abrogate gene expression, with particular relevance to hematological settings. Some examples of antisense ODNs will also be mentioned where appropriate. J. Leukoc. Biol. 66: 361–368; 1999.
Impact of the -308 TNF promoter polymorphism on the transcriptional regulation of the TNF gene: relevance to disease
Authors: Abraham Lawrence J , Kroeger Karen M
Published: January 2018

A biallelic G (TNF1 allele) to A (TNF2 allele) polymorphism 308 nucleotides upstream from the transcription initiation site in the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) promoter is associated with elevated TNF levels and disease susceptibilities observed in human subjects. The TNF2 allele is strongly associated with the high-TNF-producing autoimmune MHC haplotype HLA-A1, B8, DR3, with elevated serum TNF levels and a more severe outcome in infectious diseases, such as cerebral malaria. A number of groups have set out to determine whether the -308 polymorphism could affect transcription factor binding and hence influence TNF transcription and expression levels. Although some studies have failed to show any functional difference between the two allelic forms, others have shown that the -308 polymorphism effected transcription factor binding to the region encompassing -308, with the region in the TNF2 allele showing altered binding characteristics. The -308 polymorphism also has been found by some groups to be functionally significant in reporter gene assays in Raji B cells, Jurkat T cells, and U937 pre-monocytic cells. Up to fivefold differences can be measured between TNF1 and TNF2 allelic constructs when the TNF 3′UTR is present, indicating a role in the expression of the polymorphism. Although controversial, the majority of the data support a direct role for the TNF2 -308 allele in the elevated TNF levels observed in TNF2 homozygotes and HLA-A1, B8, DR3 individuals. Elevated TNF levels due to the -308 polymorphism may alter the immune response such that it confers susceptibility to certain autoimmune and infectious diseases. J. Leukoc. Biol. 66: 562–566; 1999.
Differentiating agents regulate cathepsin B gene expression in HL-60 cells
Authors: Berquin Isabelle M , Yan Shiqing , Katiyar Kamna , Huang Li , Sloane Bonnie F , Troen Bruce R
Published: January 2018

We utilized HL-60 cells as a model system to examine the regulation of ctsb gene expression by differentiating agents. Inducers of monocytic differentiation [phorbol ester (PMA), calcitriol (D3), and sodium butyrate (NaB)] and inducers of granulocytic differentiation [all-trans retinoic acid (RA) and 9-cis retinoic acid (9-cis RA)] increase ctsb mRNA levels in a dose-dependent manner as determined by Northern blot hybridization. D3 and retinoids exert additive effects, suggesting that these agents act in part through distinct pathways. Actinomycin D decay experiments indicate that D3, NaB, RA, and 9-cis RA do not alter mRNA stability. In contrast, PMA markedly increases the half-life of ctsb mRNA. In transient transfection assays, PMA and NaB both stimulate transcription of the luciferase reporter gene placed under the control of ctsb promoter fragments. Thus, inducers of HL-60 cell differentiation can regulate the expression of the ctsb gene at both transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels. J. Leukoc. Biol. 66: 609–616; 1999.
Murine fetal natural killer cells are functionally and structurally distinct from adult natural killer cells
Authors: van Beneden Katrien , De Creus An , Debacker Veronique , De Boever Jozef , Plum Jean , Leclercq Georges
Published: January 2018

Natural killer (NK) cell phenotype and activity was studied by analyzing uncultured and short-time-cultured murine NK cells from fetal day 17 spleen and thymus. In contrast to NK cells from adult mice, freshly sorted fetal NK cells did not contain NK receptor transcripts for Ly-49A, B, C/I, D, F, G2, or H. The only NK receptor transcripts that could be detected were Ly-49E and CD94. It is important that Ly-49E was present at a 10- to 30-fold higher level compared with uncultured NK cells from adult mice. After short-time interleukin-2 culture, the level of Ly-49E mRNA was comparable between fetal and adult NK cells. Functionally, fetal NK cells only killed MHC class I-negative tumor cells when activating NK receptors were cross-linked with antibody. We show that fetal NK cells are mature but are different from NK cells in adult mice regarding their NK cell receptor repertoire and function. J. Leukoc. Biol. 66: 625–633 1999.
Accessory cells with immunophenotypic and functional features of monocyte-derived dendritic cells are recruited to the lung during pulmonary inflammation
Authors: Tager Andrew M , Luster Andrew D , Leary Carol P , Sakamoto Hideo , Zhao Long-Hai , Preffer Frederick , Kradin Richard L
Published: January 2018

Pulmonary macrophages (M) increase in tissue and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid during inflammation caused by bleomycin (BLM). This study demonstrates that increasing numbers of exudate M in BLM lung injury exhibit dendritic cell (DC) features. After the intratracheal administration of BLM (0.075 U), adherent mononuclear cells from the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BAMC) of C57BL/6 mice were characterized for morphology, immunophenotype, and accessory cell activities. At day 7 post-BLM, 48% of CD11b+ BAMC displayed features of DC differentiation, as judged by dendritic morphology, expression of class II MHC, 33D1, Factor XIIIa, CD80, and CD86 antigens, and the ability to support a primary allogeneic lymphocyte response (MLR). After BLM treatment, CD11b+ peripheral blood monocytes also showed increased expression of 33D1, Factor XIIIa, CD86, and the ability to stimulate an MLR. We conclude that inflammatory DC with immunophenotypic features of monocyte-derived DC increase in the peripheral blood and lung after an inflammatory stimulus. J. Leukoc. Biol. 66: 901–908; 1999.
Dexamethasone inhibits dendritic cell maturation by redirecting differentiation of a subset of cells
Authors: Matasić Richard , Dietz Allan B , Vuk-Pavlović Stanimir
Published: January 2018

To investigate how corticosteroids affect differentiation of human dendritic cells (DC) in a defined inflammatory environment, we incubated immature DC with dexamethasone in the presence of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and prostaglandin E2. Dexamethasone inhibited differentiation into mature DC, as indicated by the reduced expression of antigen-presenting molecules, costimulatory and adhesion molecules, a marker of mature DC, and IL-12. Dexamethasone increased expression of CD14, CD36, and CD68, molecules characteristic of monocytes/macrophages and induced CD14+CD83− cells, a subset distinct both from immature DC and mature DC. The effects were concentration-dependent, with ID50 values between 2 and 30 nM dexamethasone. Unlike T and B cells, in DC dexamethasone induced no apoptosis, although it suppressed activated nuclear transcription factor NF-κB. Dexamethasone reduced the ability of DC to stimulate proliferation of allogeneic T cells in proportion to the level of CD14+CD83− cells in the population. CD83+ cells, isolated from dexamethasone-treated populations, retained the synthesis of IL-12 and the ability to stimulate proliferation of allogeneic T cells. Our data demonstrate that the dominant effect of the drug was redirecting differentiation of a subset of cells despite the presence of inflammatory cytokines. The observed ID50 values indicate that inhibition of DC differentiation might contribute significantly to in vivo immunosuppression by chronic administration of corticosteroids. J. Leukoc. Biol. 66: 909–914; 1999.
Transcriptional regulation of HIV-1 LTR during antigen-dependent activation of primary T cells by dendritic cells
Authors: Tsunetsugu-Yokota Yasuko , Kato Tamami , Yasuda Sachiko , Matsuda Zen-e , Suzuki Yo-ichi , Koyanagi Yoshio , Yamamoto Naoki , Akagawa Kiyoko , Cho Michael W , Takemori Toshitada
Published: January 2018

Numerous factors are known to bind human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) long terminal repeat (LTR) and activate viral transcription, but little is known as to how they function in naturally activated T cells and to what extent their binding is relevant to HIV replication in vivo. To characterize the HIV LTR-binding factors responsible for antigen-dependent activation of HIV, we examined replication of LTR mutant viruses in CD4+ T cells activated by different stimuli. NF-κB or Sp1 mutant virus replicated well in CD4+ T cells activated by phorbol ester and calcium ionophore. When they were activated by antigen-pulsed dendritic cells, the replication of the Sp1-deleted virus was severely impaired in CD45RA+, but not in CD45RO+ T cell subsets that dominantly produce interleukin-2 (IL-2). Stimulation via CD3/CD28 induced a high level of IL-2 production in both T cell subsets, but Sp1-deleted virus poorly replicated in CD45RA+ subset. The level of NF-κB and Sp1-binding factors did not differ between these subsets. Our results suggest that additional cofac-tors distinct from IL-2-inducing signaling molecules are important for LTR activation during antigen-dependent T cell activation. J. Leukoc. Biol. 67: 432–440; 2000.
Exploitation of host cell signaling machinery: activation of macrophage phosphotyrosine phosphatases as a novel mechanism of molecular microbial pathogenesis
Authors: Nandan Devki , Knutson Keith L , Lo Raymond , Reiner Neil E
Published: January 2018

Intracellular pathogens, particularly those that target host mononuclear phagocytes, have evolved strategies to either evade or inhibit cellular mechanisms of host defense. Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Leishmania donovani exemplify a diverse group of microorganisms that have developed the ability to invade and replicate within host macrophages, leading to disease expression. Recent studies have suggested that the pathogenesis of intracellular infection may involve interference with host cell signaling. Drawing upon examples from in vitro models that focused on M. tuberculosis and L. donovani, we review evidence that activation of host cell phosphotyrosine phosphatases may contribute to pathogenesis. A leading candidate appears to be the Src homology 2 domain containing phosphotyrosine phosphatase SHP-1, the activation of which may contribute to the development of infection and disease progression. J. Leukoc. Biol. 67: 464-470; 2000.
Scorpion venom-induced neutrophilia is inhibited by a PAF receptor antagonist in the rat
Authors: Borges Cynthia M , Silveira Micheline R , Aparecida M , Beker C L , Freire-Maia Lineu , Teixeira Mauro M
Published: January 2018

A dramatic blood neutrophilia is an important feature of the severe envenoming caused by the Brazilian scorpion Tityus serrulatus and may contribute to the development of lung injury in children. We examined the effects of an intravenous injection of T. serrulatus scorpion venom (TsV) on the total number of leukocytes and neutrophils in the blood of anesthetized rats. Injection of TsV (250 μg/kg) induces a significant leukocytosis 2 and 3 h after its injection, explained by an increase in the number of neutrophils. The release of catecholamines and action on adrenoceptors is responsible for most of the systemic manifestations of TsV. However, pretreatment with the β-adreno-ceptor antagonists metoprolol and propranolol or the α1-adrenoceptor antagonist prazosin (0.25 mg/kg) did not prevent TsV-induced neutrophilia. Blood neutrophilia induced by TsV occurred simultaneously with a significant reduction of mature neutrophils in bone marrow. Pretreatment with the platelet-activating factor (PAF) receptor antagonists UK-74505 or WEB-2086 prevented TsV-induced increase in blood neutrophils and reduction in the number of neutrophils in the bone marrow. It is concluded that scorpion venom induces blood neutrophilia in rats, explained by a PAF receptor-dependent mobilization of neutrophils from the bone marrow. J. Leukoc. Biol. 67:515–519; 2000.
Identification of a new murine eosinophil major basic protein (mMBP) gene: cloning and characterization of mMBP-2
Authors: Macias MiMi P , Welch Kenneth C , Denzler Karen L , Larson Kirsten A , Lee Nancy A , Lee James J
Published: January 2018

We have identified a new eosinophil major basic protein gene family member in the mouse and have given it the designation murine major basic protein-2 (mMBP-2). The gene was initially characterized as a unique expressed sequence tag (EST) clone having significant identity to the previously recognized member of this gene family, mMBP-1. The EST was used to screen and isolate mMBP-2 from a bone marrow cDNA library. In addition, a genomic clone of mMBP-2 was isolated and this gene was shown to be physically linked to within 100 kb of mMBP-1 on the central region of mouse chromosome 2. Progressive similarity alignment of the deduced mMBP-2 open reading frame demonstrates the apparent conservation of the “pre-pro-mature” protein structure found in the other known mammalian MBPs. Mature mMBP-2 maintains the cationic nature associated with these proteins with a predicted pI of 9.95. However, unlike the human MBPs, which display a three orders of magnitude charge difference [hMBP-1 (pI11.4) vs. hMBP-2 (pI8.7)], mMBP-2 is only slightly less cationic than mMBP-1 (pI 10.5). Expression studies demonstrate that transcription of the mMBP-2 gene parallels mMBP-1 and is confined to hematopoietic compartments engaged in eosinophilopoiesis. Moreover, using mMBP-1 knockout mice and immunohistochemistry with an antisera that recognizes both mMBP-1 and -2, we demonstrate that mMBP-2 protein expression is restricted to eosinophil lineage-committed cells. J. Leukoc. Biol. 67: 567–576; 2000.
The role of inflammation in vascular diseases
Authors: Sullivan Gail W , Sarembock Ian J , Linden Joel
Published: January 2018

When the body responds to an infectious insult, it initiates an immune response to eliminate the pathogen. The hallmark of the immune response is an inflammatory cascade that can also do extensive damage to host tissues. Inflammation is a major contributing factor to many vascular events, including atherosclerotic plaque development and rupture, aortic aneurysm formation, angiogenesis, and ischemia/reperfusion damage. The immune response is mediated by both circulating and resident leukocytes and the cells with which they interact (e.g., vascular endothelium and smooth muscle cells). The process is orchestrated by the activity of a changing series of released and displayed mediators. These include the expression of adhesion molecules on leukocytes and underlying vascular endothelium and the release of cytokines, chemokines, and tissue-destructive metalloproteases and reactive oxygen species. This review focuses on the causes, the inflammatory processes involved, and possible strategies for decreasing vascular disease through regulation of the inflammatory response. J. Leukoc. Biol. 67: 591–602; 2000.
Ceramide-mediated stimulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) accumulation in murine macrophages requires tyrosine kinase activity
Authors: Knapp Katherine M , English B Keith
Published: January 2018

In macrophages, bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) has been noted to mimic certain effects of the sphingolipid ceramide, suggesting that ceramide may be involved in macrophage activation by LPS and/or that LPS utilizes ceramide-related signaling pathways. Putative downstream targets of ceramide include a ceramide-activated (serine/threonine) protein kinase (CAPK) and phosphatase (CAPP). However, the potential role of tyrosine phosphorylation pathways in macrophage response to ceramide has not been examined. Herein we report that cell-permeable analogs of ceramide up-regulate both inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) production in RAW 264.7 murine macrophages. Herbimycin A and genistein, potent natural inhibitors of protein tyrosine (but not serine/threonine) phosphorylation, block ceramide-induced iNOS and TNF production. Furthermore, the highly src-family selective pyrazolopyrimidine inhibitor PP1 also blocks ceramide-induced iNOS and TNF production in RAW 264.7 cells. We found that PP1 also inhibits ceramide-mediated tyrosine phosphorylation of the src-family kinase hck. These data indicate that src-related tyrosine kinases play a critical role in macrophage activation by ceramide.
Alloantigenic stimulation bypasses CD28-B7 costimulatory blockade by an interleukin-2-dependent mechanism
Authors: Blazevic Vesna , Pinto Ligia A , Trubey C Mac , Shearer Gene M
Published: January 2018

Allogeneic leukocytes have been used as biological adjuvants for T cell-specific responses to tumor and recall antigens, but the mechanisms underlying this effect have not been fully understood. The present study investigates whether alloantigen stimulation of human T cells would bypass an in vitro T cell costimulatory dysfunction induced by CTLA4Ig blockage of CD28-B7 interaction. Here, we demonstrate that costimulation with intact allogeneic leukocytes plus viral antigen circumvented the inhibition of this costimulatory pathway via interleukin-2 (IL-2) production, resulting in the generation of influenza-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL). The alloantigen-induced help for influenza-specific CTL generation did not require cell-to-cell contact between responding and allogeneic stimulator cells. These results suggest that alloantigens can be used to bypass defects in the CD28-B7 costimulatory pathway and, therefore, may contribute to understanding the mechanisms of alloantigen-induced restoration of T cell-mediated immunity. J. Leukoc. Biol. 67: 817–824; 2000.
Impact of ranolazine on ventricular arrhythmias – A systematic review
Authors: Bazoukis George , Tse Gary , Letsas Konstantinos P. , Thomopoulos Costas , Naka Katerina K. , Korantzopoulos Panagiotis , Bazoukis Xenophon , Michelongona Paschalia , Papadatos Stamatis S. , Vlachos Konstantinos , Liu Tong , Efremidis Michael , Baranchuk Adrian , Stavrakis Stavros , Tsioufis Costas
Published: January 2018

Ranolazine is a new medication for the treatment of refractory angina. However, except its anti‐anginal properties, it has been found to act as an anti‐arrhythmic. The aim of our systematic review is to present the existing data about the impact of ranolazine in ventricular arrhythmias. We searched MEDLINE and Cochrane databases as well clinicaltrials.gov until September 1, 2017 to find all studies (clinical trials, observational studies, case reports/series) reported data about the impact of ranolazine in ventricular arrhythmias. Our search revealed 14 studies (3 clinical trials, 2 observational studies, 8 case reports, 1 case series). These data reported a beneficial impact of ranolazine in ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation, premature ventricular beats, and ICD interventions in different clinical settings. The existing data highlight the anti‐arrhythmic properties of ranolazine in ventricular arrhythmias.
A novel way to facilitate left ventricular lead implantation: Jailed catheter technique
Authors: Cay Serkan , Ozeke Ozcan , Ozcan Firat , Aras Dursun , Topaloglu Serkan
Published: January 2018

An important therapeutic modality for heart failure with left ventricular dyssynchrony, left ventricular lead placement, cannot be achieved due to anatomic challenges in some cases. In the current case, a novel implantation technique to overcome an anatomic difficulty, angled takeoff of the side branch of the coronary sinus, was presented.
Speaking up and moving up: How voice can enhance employees' social status
Authors: Weiss Mona , Morrison Elizabeth W.
Published: January 2018

A central argument in the literature on employee voice is that speaking up at work carries image risk. Challenging this assumption, we propose that voice can in fact positively affect how employees are viewed by others, thereby enhancing their social status. Using theory on status attainment and the fundamental social perception dimensions of agency and communion, we suggest that employee voice will result in higher status evaluations by increasing the extent to which an employee is judged as confident/competent (agency) and other‐oriented/helpful (communion). We conducted a survey study and two experiments to test these hypotheses. The results supported our predictions. Employees who voiced were ascribed higher status than those who did not, and this effect was mediated by judgments of agency (in all three studies) and communion (in two studies). These results highlight the implications of voice behavior for status enhancement within organizations.
Quality of fresh‐cut products as affected by harvest and postharvest operations
Authors: Ansah Francisca A , Amodio Maria L , Colelli Giancarlo
Published: January 2018

There is a rising demand for fresh‐cut convenience products with high quality and nutritional standards that needs to be met by the fresh‐cut industry. It is well known that harvest and postharvest handling of fresh produce has a paramount impact on its quality and storage, although most of the existing literature has focused on these impacts related only to fresh produce that is destined for the final consumers. Indeed, current harvest methods and postharvest technologies have improved fruit and vegetable handling and distribution processes by slowing down physiological processes and senescence. Nonetheless, these technologies and methods may influence the quality of fresh produce as raw material for fresh‐cut processing as a result of the dynamic responses of fresh produce to handling procedures and treatments. Here, we review the existing literature on the challenges facing the fresh‐cut industry, focusing on the impact of harvest, maturity, and handling of fruit and vegetables on the quality of raw materials, as well as the implications for fresh‐cut products. The review also highlights areas for further research with the aim of enhancing the sensorial, nutritional and biochemical quality of such products. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Quantification of total cholesterol in human milk by gas chromatography
Authors: Beggio Maurizio , Cruz‐Hernandez Cristina , Golay Pierre‐Alain , Lee Le Ye , Giuffrida Francesca
Published: January 2018

Human milk provides the key nutrients necessary for infant growth and development. The objective of this study was to develop and validate a method to analyze the cholesterol content in liquid human milk samples along lactation. Direct saponification of the sample using ethanolic potassium hydroxide solution under cold conditions was applied and unsaponifiable matter was separated by centrifugation. Cholesterol was converted into its trimethylsilyl ether and the derivative analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with a flame ionization detector. Cholesterol was quantified using epicoprostanol as internal standard. The method is suitable for the determination of cholesterol in only 0.3 g of human milk. It has been validated showing good repeatability (CV(r) < 15%) and intermediate reproducibility (CV(iR) < 15%). The method was used to analyze human milk obtained from five mothers collected at day 30(±3), 60 (±3) and 120 (±3) after delivery. The cholesterol content in human milk slightly decreased from 13.1 mg/100 g at 1 month to 11.3 mg/100 g 120 days after delivery. The method can also be used to determine desmosterol, an intermediate in cholesterol synthesis.
Development of manganese‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of the rostral ventrolateral medulla of conscious rats: Importance of normalization and comparison with other regions of interest
Authors: Huereca Daniel J. , Bakoulas Konstandinos A. , Ghoddoussi Farhad , Berkowitz Bruce A. , Holt Avril Genene , Mueller Patrick J.
Published: January 2018

Spinally projecting neurons in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) are believed to contribute to pathophysiological alterations in sympathetic nerve activity and the development of cardiovascular disease. The ability to identify changes in the activity of RVLM neurons in conscious animals and humans, especially longitudinally, would represent a clinically important advancement in our understanding of the contribution of the RVLM to cardiovascular disease. To this end, we describe the initial development of manganese‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MEMRI) for the rat RVLM. Manganese (Mn2+) has been used to estimate in vivo neuronal activity in other brain regions because of both its paramagnetic properties and its entry into and accumulation in active neurons. In this initial study, our three goals were as follows: (1) to validate that Mn2+ enhancement occurs in functionally and anatomically localized images of the rat RVLM; (2) to quantify the dose and time course dependence of Mn2+ enhancement in the RVLM after one systemic injection in conscious rats (66 or 33 mg/kg, intraperitoneally); and (3) to compare Mn2+ enhancement in the RVLM with other regions to determine an appropriate method of normalization of T1‐weighted images. In our proof‐of‐concept and proof‐of‐principle studies, Mn2+ was identified by MRI in the rat RVLM after direct microinjection or via retrograde transport following spinal cord injections, respectively. Systemic injections in conscious rats produced significant Mn2+ enhancement at 24 h (p < 0.05). Injections of 66 mg/kg produced greater enhancement than 33 mg/kg in the RVLM and paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (p < 0.05 for both), but only when normalized to baseline scans without Mn2+ injection. Consistent with findings from our previous functional and anatomical studies demonstrating subregional neuroplasticity, Mn2+ enhancement was higher in the rostral regions of the RVLM (p < 0.05). Together with important technical considerations, our studies support the development of MEMRI as a potential method to examine RVLM activity over time in conscious animal subjects.
Optimal control of a delayed hepatitis B viral infection model with HBV DNA‐containing capsids and CTL immune response
Authors: Danane Jaouad , Meskaf Adil , Allali Karam
Published: January 2018

This paper deals with an optimal control problem of a time‐delayed differential equation model that describes the interactions between hepatitis B virus (HBV) with HBV DNA‐containing capsids, liver cells (hepatocytes), and cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte immune response. Both the treatment and the intracellular delay are incorporated into the model. Furthermore, the existence of the optimal control pair is studied, and Pontryagin's minimum principle is used to characterize these 2 optimal controls. The first of them represents the efficiency of drug treatment in preventing new infections, whereas the second stands for the efficiency of drug treatment in inhibiting viral production. The optimality system is derived and solved numerically using the forward and backward difference approximation. Finally, numerical simulations are established to show the role of optimal therapy in controlling viral replication.
Kinetics study of oil sorption with open‐cell polypropylene/polyolefin elastomer blend foams prepared via continuous extrusion foaming
Authors: Pang Yongyan , Wang Shusheng , Wu Minghui , Liu Wei , Wu Fei , Lee Patrick C. , Zheng Wenge
Published: January 2018

The objective of the present work was to study the sorption kinetics of open‐cell polypropylene/polyolefin elastomer (PP/POE) blend foams. First, open‐cell PP/POE foams of different cell structures were prepared by controlling the foaming temperature via a continuous extrusion foaming process. Second, the effect of the cell structures on the sorption process, rate, and capacity was studied. Pseudo‐first order and pseudo‐second order models were applied to study the sorption kinetics of the PP/POE foams for cyclohexane. Third, the sorption rate and sorption capacity by both volume and weight of the PP/POE foam for different oils and solvents were studied to show how the intrinsic properties of the testing oils and solvents affected the sorption performance. The results showed that the sorption with the PP/POE foams followed the pseudo‐second order kinetics model. Both the cell structures of the foams and the intrinsic properties of the testing oils and solvents affected the sorption performance. For the same testing oil, a higher open‐cell content in the foam was favorable for a higher sorption rate, and a higher void fraction was favorable for a higher sorption capacity. For the same foam, a lower viscosity of the testing oil was favorable for a higher sorption rate. The sorption capacity by volume was closely related to the viscosity of the testing oil, while both the viscosity and the density of the testing oil determined the sorption capacity by weight.
Ultrasound findings provide clues to investigate founder mutations expressed as runs of homozygosity in chromosomal microarray studies
Authors: Daum Hagit , Lerer Israela , Frumkin Ayala , Rosenak Daniel , Yanai Nili , Porat Shay , Yagel Simcha , Meiner Vardiella
Published: January 2018

What's already known about this topic?

ROH mapping is a diagnostic tool in the investigation of genetic disease within consanguineous families; however, in isolated populations, no consanguinity is required as a result of long‐term ancestral isolation.

What does this study add?

Known founder mutations within isolated populations together with SNP array in the prenatal testing, and with corresponding ultrasound abnormalities assist in achieving an accurate prenatal diagnosis in a tight schedule.
Effect of matrix−nanoparticle supramolecular interactions on the morphology and mechanical properties of polymer foams
Authors: Jamalpour Seifollah , Ghaffarian Seyed Reza , Jangizehi Amir
Published: January 2018

In this study, we report the fabrication of supramolecular polymer nanocomposite foams with a uniform cell structure, high cell density and high expansion ratio using a soft matrix of poly(methyl acrylate‐co‐2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate) and silica nanoparticle fillers, both functionalized with ureido‐pyrimidinone (UPy) supramolecular groups. Microcellular structures were formed using a batch foaming process at 90 °C under a 9 MPa nitrogen atmosphere. Nanocomposites were characterized and compared before and after the foaming process to investigate the effect of supramolecular interactions on the thermomechanical properties and morphology of the foams. TEM images revealed that while strong inter‐filler supramolecular interactions do not have a positive effect on their dispersion state, matrix−filler interactions derived from hydrogen bonding UPy motifs result in a rather uniform distribution of nanoparticles. Competing filler−filler and matrix−filler supramolecular interactions can be balanced and optimized by adjusting UPy populations along the chains and on the surface of nanoparticles. At a given chain functionality, increasing the nanoparticle loading up to an optimum concentration improves the mechanical properties and formability of the system. Above such concentration strong interactions between fillers, which are not compensated by the matrix, result in large aggregates and consequently undermine the material performance. Supramolecular polymer foams illustrate a similar thermal and viscoelastic behavior to that of neat samples but after foaming, due to the formation of a cellular structure and rearrangement or dissociation of UPy dimers under the foaming conditions, the elastic modulus is reduced. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
The Saliva Proteome of Dogs: Variations Within and Between Breeds and Between Species
Authors: Pasha Sabah , Inui Taichi , Chapple Iain , Harris Stephen , Holcombe Lucy , Grant Melissa M.
Published: January 2018

Saliva is a complex multifunctional fluid that bathes the oral cavity to assist in soft and hard tissue maintenance, lubrication, buffering, defense against microbes, and initiating digestion of foods. It has been extensively characterized in humans but its protein composition in dogs remains poorly characterized, yet saliva composition could explain (patho) physiological differences between individuals, breeds and with humans. This pilot discovery study aimed to characterize canine saliva from two breeds, Labrador retrievers and Beagles, and to compare this with human saliva using quantitative mass spectrometry. The analysis demonstrated considerable inter‐individual variation and difference between breeds; however these were small in comparison to the differences between species. Functional mapping suggested roles of detected proteins similar to those found in human saliva with the exception of the initiation of digestion as salivary amylase was lacking or at very low abundance in canine saliva samples. Many potential anti‐microbial proteins were detected agreeing with the notion that the oral cavity is under continuous microbial challenge.
The Significance of Campus Visitations to College Choice and Strategic Enrollment Management
Authors: Secore Scott
Published: January 2018

The reasons a student may choose a particular institution when seeking a postsecondary education are many. However, campus visitation—more specifically, the campus tour—is frequently cited as the most important aspect of the college recruitment process. Correspondingly, in a hypercompetitive and fiscally afflicted higher education market, admissions officers are under immense pressure to attract new students and increase financial yield. As a result, marketers of higher education admissions have turned their attention to prioritizing the pivotal nature of a campus visit, and the overwhelming effect it has on both prospective students and higher education administrators. This article explores influences that affect a student's college choice and explains why campus visitation is the most important part of the recruitment process. Additionally, it reviews approaches and implications pertaining to campus visits and offers example‐based suggestions on how enrollment managers can make visitations to their institutions fortuitous.
Hinokitiol ablates myofibroblast activation in precancerous oral submucous fibrosis by targeting Snail
Authors: Yang Hui‐Wen , Lu Ming‐Yi , Chiu Yu‐Wei , Liao Yi‐Wen , Huang Yu‐Feng , Ju Chueh Pin , Hsieh Pei‐Ling , Yu Cheng‐Chia
Published: January 2018

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) is a precancerous condition with symptoms of limited mouth opening and areca nut chewing habit has been implicated in its pathogenesis. Hinokitiol, a natural tropolone derived from Chamacyparis taiwanensis, has been reported to improve oral lichen planus and inhibit various cancer cells. Here, we showed that hinokitiol reduced the myofibroblast activities in fBMFs and prevented the arecoline‐induced transdifferentiation. Treatment of hinokitiol dose‐dependently downregulated the myofibroblast markers as well as various EMT transcriptional factors. In particular, we identified that Snail was able to bind to the E‐box in the α‐SMA promoter. Our data suggested that exposure of fBMFs to hinokitiol mitigated the hallmarks of myofibroblasts, while overexpression of Snail eliminated the effect of hinokitiol. These findings revealed that the inhibitory effect of hinokitiol on myofibroblasts was mediated by repression of α‐SMA via regulation of Snail and showed the anti‐fibrotic potential of hinokitiol in the treatment of OSF.
Resetting the TSCA Inventory: Why This Is Important
Authors: Bergeson Lynn L.
Published: January 2018

On August 11, 2017, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published the third Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) framework final rule in the Federal Register, the TSCA Inventory Notification (Active‐Inactive) Requirements (EPA, 2017). This final rule is now in effect. This Washington Watch column explains why the rule is important, and what stakeholders should be doing to protect their interests.
Noncoding RNAs in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Idda M. Laura , Munk Rachel , Abdelmohsen Kotb , Gorospe Myriam
Published: January 2018

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder and the main cause of dementia among the elderly worldwide. Despite intense efforts to develop drugs for preventing and treating AD, no effective therapies are available as yet, posing a growing burden at the personal, medical, and socioeconomic levels. AD is characterized by the production and aggregation of amyloid β (Aβ) peptides derived from amyloid precursor protein (APP), the presence of hyperphosphorylated microtubule‐associated protein Tau (MAPT), and chronic inflammation leading to neuronal loss. Aβ accumulation and hyperphosphorylated Tau are responsible for the main histopathological features of AD, Aβ plaques, and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), respectively. However, the full spectrum of molecular factors that contribute to AD pathogenesis is not known. Noncoding (nc)RNAs, including microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), regulate gene expression at the transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels in various diseases, serving as biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets. There is rising recognition that ncRNAs have been implicated in both the onset and pathogenesis of AD. Here, we review the ncRNAs implicated posttranscriptionally in the main AD pathways and discuss the growing interest in targeting regulatory ncRNAs therapeutically to combat AD pathology. WIREs RNA 2018, 9:e1463. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1463

This article is categorized under:

RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease
On degenerate coupled transport processes in porous media with memory phenomena
Authors: Beneš Michal , Pažanin Igor
Published: January 2018

In this paper we prove the global existence of weak solutions to degenerate parabolic systems coupled with an integral condition arising from the fully coupled moisture movement, transport of dissolved chemical species and heat transfer through porous materials. The problem under consideration covers a large range of problems including hygro‐thermo‐chemical modelling of concrete at early ages taking into account hydration (memory) phenomena. In the model, all changes of material properties are expressed as functions of state variables and the memory function (the so called hydration degree). Physically relevant mixed Dirichlet‐Neumann boundary conditions and initial conditions are considered. Existence of global weak solutions of the problem is proved by means of semidiscretization in time, proving necessary uniform estimates and by passing to the limit from discrete approximations. Degeneration occurs in the nonlinear transport coefficients which are not assumed to be bounded below and above by positive constants. Degeneracies in transport coefficients are overcome by proving suitable a‐priori ‐estimates based on De Giorgi and Moser iteration technique.
Coffee with a high content of chlorogenic acids and low content of hydroxyhydroquinone improves postprandial endothelial dysfunction in patients with borderline and stage 1 hypertension
Authors: Kajikawa Masato , Maruhashi Tatsuya , Hidaka Takayuki , Nakano Yukiko , Kurisu Satoshi , Matsumoto Takeshi , Iwamoto Yumiko , Kishimoto Shinji , Matsui Shogo , Aibara Yoshiki , Yusoff Farina Mohamad , Kihara Yasuki , Chayama Kazuaki , Goto Chikara , Noma Kensuke , Nakashima Ayumu , Watanabe Takuya , Tone Hiroshi , Hibi Masanobu , Osaki Noriko , Katsuragi Yoshihisa , Higashi Yukihito
Published: January 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate acute effects of coffee with a high content of chlorogenic acids and different hydroxyhydroquinone contents on postprandial endothelial dysfunction.

Methods

This was a single-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover-within-subject clinical trial. A total of 37 patients with borderline or stage 1 hypertension were randomized to two study groups. The participants consumed a test meal with a single intake of the test coffee. Subjects in the Study 1 group were randomized to single intake of coffee with a high content of chlorogenic acids and low content of hydroxyhydroquinone or coffee with a high content of chlorogenic acids and a high content of hydroxyhydroquinone with crossover. Subjects in the Study 2 group were randomized to single intake of coffee with a high content of chlorogenic acids and low content of hydroxyhydroquinone or placebo coffee with crossover. Endothelial function assessed by flow-mediated vasodilation and plasma concentration of 8-isoprostanes were measured at baseline and at 1 and 2 h after coffee intake.

Results

Compared with baseline values, single intake of coffee with a high content of chlorogenic acids and low content of hydroxyhydroquinone, but not coffee with a high content of chlorogenic acids and high content of hydroxyhydroquinone or placebo coffee, significantly improved postprandial flow-mediated vasodilation and decreased circulating 8-isoprostane levels.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that a single intake of coffee with a high content of chlorogenic acids and low content of hydroxyhydroquinone is effective for improving postprandial endothelial dysfunction.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL for Clinical Trial: https://upload.umin.ac.jp; Registration Number for Clinical Trial: UMIN000013283.
Prehospital Emergencies in Illegal Gold Mining Sites in French Guiana
Authors: Egmann Gérald , Tattevin Pierre , Palancade Renaud , Nacher Matthieu
Published: January 2018

Introduction

Illegal gold mining is flourishing in French Guiana, existing outside the law due to both the high cost of gold mining permits and the challenges of law enforcement within the Amazon forest. We report the characteristics of, and the medical responses to, medical emergencies in illegal gold mining sites.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study of all medical emergencies reported from illegal gold mining sites to the centralized call office of SAMU 973 from 1998 through 2000 and from 2008 through 2010. According to the national health care system, any medical emergency within the territory is handled by the prehospital emergency medical service (SAMU 973), irrespective of the patients’ legal status. Data were extracted from the SAMU 973 notebook registry (1998–2000) or the SAMU 973 computerized database (2008–2010) and werre collected using a standardized questionnaire.

Results

Of 71,932 calls for medical emergencies in French Guiana during the study periods, 340 (0.5%) originated from illegal gold mining sites. Of these, 196 (58%) led to medical evacuation by helicopter, whereas the overall rate of evacuation by helicopter after placing a call to SAMU 973 was only 4% (3020/71,932; P<0.0001 for comparison with illegal gold mining sites). Medical emergencies were classified as illness (48%, mostly infectious), trauma (44%, mostly weapon wounds), and miscellaneous (8%).

Conclusions

Medical emergencies at illegal gold mining sites in the Amazon forest mostly include infectious diseases, followed by trauma, and often require medical evacuation by helicopter. Our study suggests that implementation of preventive medicine within gold mining sites, irrespective of their legal status, could be cost-effective and reduce morbidity.
Update on the Epidemiology of Scorpion Envenomation in the South of Tunisia
Authors: Chakroun-Walha Olfa , Karray Rim , Jerbi Mouna , Nasri Abdennour , Issaoui Fadhila , Amine Ben Rebeh , Bahloul Mabrouk , Bouaziz Mounir , Ksibi Hichem , Rekik Noureddine
Published: January 2018

Introduction

Scorpion envenomation is still a frequent occurance in tropical and subtropical regions. In Tunisia, multiple studies on scorpion envenoming have contributed to an improved understanding of cardiac dysfunction and factors predictive of poor prognosis. These previous studies have contributed to the current standardized management of envenomed patients. However, the epidemiology of scorpion envenoming in Tunisia has not been updated for more than 10 years. The aim of this study was to report an update of the epidemiological features of scorpion envenomation in the southern region of Tunisia.

Methods

This is a retrospective monocentric study including all patients admitted in the emergency room for scorpion envenomation. Cases were collected from emergency medical files during a 3-year period (2013–2015). The diagnosis of scorpion envenomation was made by history of a scorpion sting. All files in which scorpion envenomation was not certain were excluded. Data are presented as mean±SD with range or percentages, as appropriate.

Results

We enrolled 282 patients aged 27.4±22.8 years with a 1:1 sex ratio. During surveillance in the emergency room, 39 patients developed cardiac dysfunction. Overall, 42 patients (14.9%) were at stage 3 of severity, and 240 patients (85.1%) had moderate scorpion envenomation (stage 2). Only 1 patient died a few hours after admission. In the remaining cases, the outcome was good. Our results show the improvement in mortality rates even in severe presentations.

Conclusion

This study found that the outcome of scorpion-stung patients has clearly improved. This enhancement can be explained by early medical consultation and standardized management of patients with predictive factors for cardiac dysfunction.