bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developmental regulation of molecular signalling in fetal and neonatal diaphragm protein metabolism
Authors: Song Yong , Pillow J Jane
Published: July 2013

Structural and functional immaturity of the preterm diaphragm predisposes the preterm baby to respiratory muscle weakness and consequent impaired efficiency of spontaneous respiration, potentially necessitating mechanical respiratory support. The ontogeny of several proteolytic genes (calpain, caspase-3, MAFbx and MuRF-1) changes dynamically with gestational and early postnatal development. We aimed to define the molecular signal cascades and triggers responsible for the dynamic changes in the proteolytic pathways during in utero and early postnatal development. Costal diaphragm was obtained immediately following euthanasia of fetal and newborn lambs from 75 to 200 days postconceptional age (term = 150 days). Gene expression of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and myostatin decreased steadily in utero from 75 to 145 days ( P < 0.05) and the transcripts increased again after birth except of myostatin. Rapid activation of the fork-head transcriptional factors of the O class (FOXO1) and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) pathways was observed at 24 h of postnatal age. Diaphragm reactive oxygen species (ROS) production increased over 29-fold at 24 h postnatal age, compared with the 145 days fetus ( P < 0.01). Local (diaphragmatic) ROS accumulation occurred earlier and was more predominant than systemic (plasma) ROS. There were positive correlations between signalling transduction molecules (FOXO1 and NF-κB) and antioxidant gene expression (superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase 1). We conclude that anabolic (IGF-1) and catabolic (TNF-α and myostatin) factors have a similar developmental pattern with a decreasing trend toward full term. This may reflect in utero integration of cellular events into low protein metabolism as the diaphragm matures in late gestation. On initiation of spontaneous breathing, ROS accumulated and potentially activated cascade of FOXO and NF-κB signal transduction. The finding provides new insights into developmental regulation of protein metabolism within development. The implication of these postnatal events for diaphragm adaptation to the ex utero environment needs further investigation.
Maytenus ilicifolia dry extract protects normal cells, induces apoptosis and regulates Bcl-2 in human cancer cells
Authors: Júnior Raimundo Fernandes de Araújo , Oliveira Ana Luiza Cabral de Sá Leitão , Pessoa Jonas Bispo , Garcia Vinícios Barreto , Guerra Gerlane Coelho Bernardo , Soares Luiz Alberto Lira , de Souza Tatiane Pereira , Petrovick Pedro Ros , de Araújo Aurigena Antunes
Published: July 2013

Maytenus is the largest genus of the family Celastraceae and the species Maytenus ilicifolia (popularly known as ‘Espinheira Santa’). It is widely used in traditional Brazilian medicine to treat stomach conditions including nausea, gastritis, and ulcers. In this study, the apoptotic effects of a spray-dried extract of M. ilicifolia (SDEMI) was evaluated using human hepatocellular cells (HepG2), colorectal carcinoma cells (HT-29), and normal keratinocytes (HaCaT). Cells were treated with SDEMI for 4 and 24 h, then were assayed for levels of apoptosis, caspase-3, and Bcl-2 by flow cytometry, immunostaining, and Western blot, respectively. Significant differences between groups were determined using analysis of variance ( P < 0.05). For HepG2 and HT-29 cells treated with SDEMI, various cytotoxic effects were observed compared with control cells at all timepoints assayed ( P < 0.001). Furthermore, positive caspase-3 staining and down-regulation of Bcl-2 were observed, consistent with the induction of cell death detected in these cell lines. In contrast, treatment of HaCaT cells with SDEMI was associated with a protective effect compared with control cells at both timepoints ( P < 0.001). For example, increased expression of Bcl-2 and negative caspase-3 staining were detected. Taken together, these results suggest that SDEMI protects normal cells, while SDEMI mediates induction of apoptosis via down-regulation of Bcl-2 and involvement of caspase-3 in human carcinoma cells.
Impaired phosphate and tension homologue deleted on chromosome 10 expression and its prognostic role in radical surgery for hepatocellular carcinoma with family aggregation resulting from hepatitis B and liver cirrhosis
Authors: Zhong Yuesi , Yan Jian , Deng Meihai , Hu Kunpeng , Yao Zhicheng , Zou Yong , Xu Ruiyun
Published: July 2013

This study aimed to retrospectively investigate the expression of the phosphate and tension homologue deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) protein and its prognostic role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with family aggregation resulting from hepatitis B and liver cirrhosis, which have not been established. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed to evaluate the PTEN protein expression in HCC and paired para-cancerous tissues from 79 patients with HCC caused by hepatitis B and liver cirrhosis. Of these cases, 34 represented HCC with family aggregation (HCCF group), and 45 represented HCC with no family aggregation (HCCN group). Follow-up data were collected for 3 months to 10 years and analysed for HCC recurrence, survival time and prognostic risk factors. The expression of the PTEN protein in the HCC tissue was dramatically lower in the HCCF group than in the HCCN group. The six-month, one-year and two-year overall recurrence (OR) rates of the HCCF group were significantly higher than those of the HCCN group. The one-year, two-year and five-year overall survival (OS) rates of the HCCF group were lower than those of the HCCN group. Impaired PTEN protein expression was an independent prognostic risk factor that was significantly correlated with OR and OS in HCC patients. Dramatically impaired PTEN protein expression in HCC patients with family aggregation resulting from hepatitis B and liver cirrhosis was correlated with OR and OS, and impaired PTEN expression was an independent risk factor for prognosis after radical surgery.
Advanced treatment of acute femoropopliteal bypass graft occlusion with Fogarty catheter guidance
Authors: Albayrak Gokhan , Aykut Koray , Guzeloglu Mehmet , Gulcu Aytac , Hazan Eyup
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The guiding role of the Fogarty catheter was investigated among patients suffering from limb ischemia due to acute femoropopliteal bypass graft occlusion.

Methods

A total of 27 patients with a history of femoropopliteal bypass operation who was admitted with acute limb ischemia were enrolled in this retrospective study. In cases in which the Fogarty catheter could not be passed through the popliteal anastomosis, the popliteal region was explored and a new bypass or patch plasty was performed for the distal anastomosis. The cases in which the blood circulation was observed in the graft, but in which the Fogarty catheter balloon was stuck in the native vessels on the proximal and distal side of the graft and the balloon could be withdrawn by deflation, were referred to conventional angiography. The stenosis observed in native vessels was managed by endovascular stent grafting and/or balloon dilatation.

Findings

Graft patency was achieved in all patients. In 11 patients, conventional angiography was implemented following embolectomy. In these patients, all the occlusions found as significant on angiography were removed by percutaneous transluminal angioplasty.

Conclusion

Effective use of Fogarty catheter is safe in acute femoropopliteal bypass graft occlusions and in particular, in the planning of further treatment following thrombectomy.
Primary Amyloid Goiter and Review of Imaging Characteristics
Authors: Chung R , Pilcher J
Published: July 2013

Clinically symptomatic amyloid goiter is extremely rare. We report the case of a 76-year-old male patient under the care of the nephrologists with end stage renal failure of unknown aetiology. Concurrent investigation for a dysphagia causing goiter allowed primary diagnosis of amyloid by targeted fine needle aspiration (FNA) under ultrasound guidance. The imaging features are reviewed across multimodalities. This report highlights the usefulness of FNA in establishing diagnosis and the importance of maintaining clinical suspicion in patients with a concomitant history of a chronic inflammatory process.
Robustness classification of materials, assemblies and buildings
Authors: Jelle Bjørn Petter , Sveipe Erland , Wegger Erlend , Gustavsen Arild , Grynning Steinar , Thue Jan Vincent , Time Berit , Lisø Kim Robert
Published: July 2013

Reliable methods are needed for classifying the robustness of buildings and building materials for many reasons, including ensuring that constructions can withstand the climate conditions resulting from global warming, which might be more severe than was assumed in an existing building’s design. Evaluating the robustness of buildings is also important for reducing process-induced building defects. We describe and demonstrate a flexible framework for classifying the robustness of building materials, building assemblies, and whole buildings that incorporates climate and service life considerations.
Successful weight management and health behaviour change using a health trainer model
Authors: Jennings Amy , Barnes Sarah , Okereke Uju , Welch Ailsa
Published: July 2013

Aim:

NHS Great Yarmouth and Waveney is an area of high deprivation and it is estimated that 49% of the adult population are overweight or obese. The health trainer model, which involves recruiting trainers from local communities, offers an innovative way of supporting individuals in managing their weight through one-to-one support. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a health trainer-led intervention in terms of weight loss and behaviour change.

Methods:

Data were collected from all participants who visited a health trainer for the purpose of weight loss between February 2008 and March 2011. All participants were seen on a one-to-one basis, with the setting and length of the intervention varying according to individual requirements (median 21 weeks, IQR 12.4–29.6). Weight change was the primary outcome measure; secondary outcomes were blood pressure, fruit and vegetable intake and physical activity levels, measured using established health trainer data recording systems. Data on secondary outcomes were not available for all participants due to lack of compliance.

Results:

Using intention-to-treat analysis, average weight change was -2.5 kg (95% CI - 2.7 – -2.1, n = 541, p < .001) and weight gain was prevented in 90% of participants ( n = 487). The number of participants classified as hypertensive reduced from 60% ( n = 66) to 41% ( n = 45) over the period of the intervention. In terms of behaviour change, fruit and vegetable intake increased significantly by 2.4 portions per day (95% CI 2.1–2.7, n = 248, p < .001) with 46% ( n = 115) of participants increasing their intake to five portions per day. 68% of participants for whom data were available ( n = 227) reported an increase in moderate physical activity, with time increasing by 59.3 minutes per week (95% CI 46.3–72.4, p < .001).

Conclusions:

The health trainer service in Great Yarmouth and Waveney may be effective in helping participants to manage their weight and change their health-related behaviour. Although the degree of weight loss reported was moderate given the high levels of deprivation and the health needs of the local population, these were promising findings. To improve the current evidence base for the effectiveness of health trainer-led interventions, studies need to see if these findings are replicable in other population groups and in other settings.
Audit of PSA requesting practices in primary care compared to guidelines established by the Prostate Cancer Risk Management programme in the Avon region of the South West of England
Authors: Hultin S , Hotston M , Day A , Taylor A , Goodall R , Thomas P , Bahl A , Persad R , Gjini A
Published: July 2013

Background

There is considerable challenge in transmitting the complicated information contained in the Prostate Cancer Risk Management (PCRM) programme in the primary care setting. 1 The practices surrounding requesting of PSA should be clearly understood by both GP and patient before requesting this investigation, and in order to further understand the needs and requirements of primary care practitioners in this regard we undertook an audit comparing practices in the Avon region of the Southwest of England compared to the guidelines of the PCRM programme. 1

Methods

Our study identified a consistent year-on-year increase in PSA requests over the study period across all age categories and regions of the southwest of England.

Results

Questionnaire review of practices surrounding the PCRM programme revealed overall good practice but with space for improvement surrounding advice regarding the limitations of prostate biopsy and the relevance of testing in the elderly.

Conclusions

Despite requesting practices generally conforming to NICE guidelines, nearly half of all abnormal primary-care PSA tests are repeated. Requests in some cases may fall short of best practice.
Digital genotyping of sorghum – a diverse plant species with a large repeat-rich genome
Authors: Morishige Daryl T , Klein Patricia E , Hilley Josie L , Sahraeian Sayed Mohammad Ebrahim , Sharma Arun , Mullet John E
Published: July 2013

Background

Rapid acquisition of accurate genotyping information is essential for all genetic marker-based studies. For species with relatively small genomes, complete genome resequencing is a feasible approach for genotyping; however, for species with large and highly repetitive genomes, the acquisition of whole genome sequences for the purpose of genotyping is still relatively inefficient and too expensive to be carried out on a high-throughput basis. Sorghum bicolor is a C4 grass with a sequenced genome size of ~730 Mb, of which ~80% is highly repetitive. We have developed a restriction enzyme targeted genome resequencing method for genetic analysis, termed Digital Genotyping (DG), to be applied to sorghum and other grass species with large repeat-rich genomes.

Results

DG templates are generated using one of three methylation sensitive restriction enzymes that recognize a nested set of 4, 6 or 8 bp GC-rich sequences, enabling varying depth of analysis and integration of results among assays. Variation in sequencing efficiency among DG markers was correlated with template GC-content and length. The expected DG allele sequence was obtained 97.3% of the time with a ratio of expected to alternative allele sequence acquisition of >20:1. A genetic map aligned to the sorghum genome sequence with an average resolution of 1.47 cM was constructed using 1,772 DG markers from 137 recombinant inbred lines. The DG map enhanced the detection of QTL for variation in plant height and precisely aligned QTL such as Dw3 to underlying genes/alleles. Higher-resolution NgoMIV-based DG haplotypes were used to trace the origin of DNA on SBI-06, spanning Ma1 and Dw2 from progenitors to BTx623 and IS3620C. DG marker analysis identified the correct location of two miss-assembled regions and located seven super contigs in the sorghum reference genome sequence.

Conclusion

DG technology provides a cost-effective approach to rapidly generate accurate genotyping data in sorghum. Currently, data derived from DG are used for many marker-based analyses, including marker-assisted breeding, pedigree and QTL analysis, genetic map construction, map-based gene cloning and association studies. DG in combination with whole genome resequencing is dramatically accelerating all aspects of genetic analysis of sorghum, an important genetic reference for C4 grass species.
A non-synonymous SNP within the isopentenyl transferase 2 locus is associated with kernel weight in Chinese maize inbreds (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Weng Jianfeng , Li Bo , Liu Changlin , Yang Xiaoyan , Wang Hongwei , Hao Zhuanfang , Li Mingshun , Zhang Degui , Ci Xiaoke , Li Xinhai , Zhang Shihuang
Published: July 2013

Background

Kernel weight, controlled by quantitative trait loci (QTL), is an important component of grain yield in maize. Cytokinins (CKs) participate in determining grain morphology and final grain yield in crops. ZmIPT2, which is expressed mainly in the basal transfer cell layer, endosperm, and embryo during maize kernel development, encodes an isopentenyl transferase (IPT) that is involved in CK biosynthesis.

Results

The coding region of ZmIPT2 was sequenced across a panel of 175 maize inbred lines that are currently used in Chinese maize breeding programs. Only 16 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and seven haplotypes were detected among these inbred lines. Nucleotide diversity (π) within the ZmIPT2 window and coding region were 0.347 and 0.0047, respectively, and they were significantly lower than the mean nucleotide diversity value of 0.372 for maize Chromosome 2 (P < 0.01). Association mapping revealed that a single nucleotide change from cytosine (C) to thymine (T) in the ZmIPT2 coding region, which converted a proline residue into a serine residue, was significantly associated with hundred kernel weight (HKW) in three environments (P <0.05), and explained 4.76% of the total phenotypic variation. In vitro characterization suggests that the dimethylallyl diphospate (DMAPP) IPT activity of ZmIPT2-T is higher than that of ZmIPT2-C, as the amounts of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), adenosine diphosphate (ADP), and adenosine monophosphate (AMP) consumed by ZmIPT2-T were 5.48-, 2.70-, and 1.87-fold, respectively, greater than those consumed by ZmIPT2-C. The effects of artificial selection on the ZmIPT2 coding region were evaluated using Tajima’s D tests across six subgroups of Chinese maize germplasm, with the most frequent favorable allele identified in subgroup PB (Partner B).

Conclusions

These results showed that ZmIPT2, which is associated with kernel weight, was subjected to artificial selection during the maize breeding process. ZmIPT2-T had higher IPT activity than ZmIPT2-C, and this favorable allele for kernel weight could be used in molecular marker-assisted selection for improvement of grain yield components in Chinese maize breeding programs.
DALI: Vitamin D and lifestyle intervention for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) prevention: an European multicentre, randomised trial – study protocol
Authors: Jelsma Judith GM , van Poppel Mireille NM , Galjaard Sander , Desoye Gernot , Corcoy Rosa , Devlieger Roland , van Assche Andre , Timmerman Dirk , Jans Goele , Harreiter Jurgen , Kautzky-Willer Alexandra , Damm Peter , Mathiesen Elisabeth R , Jensen Dorte M , Andersen Liselotte , Dunne Fidelma , Lapolla Annunziata , Di Cianni Graziano , Bertolotto Alessandra , Wender-Oegowska Ewa , Zawiejska Agnieszka , Blumska Kinga , Hill David , Rebollo Pablo , Snoek Frank J , Simmons David
Published: July 2013

Background

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is an increasing problem world-wide. Lifestyle interventions and/or vitamin D supplementation might help prevent GDM in some women.

Methods/design

Pregnant women at risk of GDM (BMI≥29 (kg/m2)) from 9 European countries will be invited to participate and consent obtained before 19+6 weeks of gestation. After giving informed consent, women without GDM will be included (based on IADPSG criteria: fasting glucose<5.1mmol; 1 hour glucose <10.0 mmol; 2 hour glucose <8.5 mmol) and randomized to one of the 8 intervention arms using a 2×(2×2) factorial design: (1) healthy eating (HE), 2) physical activity (PA), 3) HE+PA, 4) control, 5) HE+PA+vitamin D, 6) HE+PA+placebo, 7) vitamin D alone, 8) placebo alone), pre-stratified for each site. In total, 880 women will be included with 110 women allocated to each arm. Between entry and 35 weeks of gestation, women allocated to a lifestyle intervention will receive 5 face-to-face, and 4 telephone coaching sessions, based on the principles of motivational interviewing. The lifestyle intervention includes a discussion about the risks of GDM, a weight gain target <5kg and either 7 healthy eating ‘messages’ and/or 5 physical activity ‘messages’ depending on randomization. Fidelity is monitored by the use of a personal digital assistance (PDA) system. Participants randomized to the vitamin D intervention receive either 1600 IU vitamin D or placebo for daily intake until delivery. Data is collected at baseline measurement, at 24–28 weeks, 35–37 weeks of gestation and after delivery. Primary outcome measures are gestational weight gain, fasting glucose and insulin sensitivity, with a range of obstetric secondary outcome measures including birth weight.

Discussion

DALI is a unique Europe-wide randomised controlled trial, which will gain insight into preventive measures against the development of GDM in overweight and obese women.

Trial registration

ISRCTN70595832
Optimal schedule of bacillus calmette-guerin for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer: a meta-analysis of comparative studies
Authors: Zhu Shimiao , Tang Yang , Li Kai , Shang Zhiqun , Jiang Ning , Nian Xuewu , Sun Libin , Niu Yuanjie
Published: July 2013

Background

To explore the necessity of maintenance, efficacy of low-dose and superiority of various combination therapies of Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) in treatment of superficial bladder cancer (BCa).

Methods

Comprehensive searches of electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library) were performed, then a systematic review and cumulative meta-analysis of 21 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 9 retrospective comparative studies were carried out according to predefined inclusion criteria.

Results

Significantly better recurrence-free survivals (RFS) were observed respectively in patients who received BCG maintenance, standard-dose and BCG plus epirubicin therapy comparing to those received induction, low-dose and BCG alone. BCG maintenance therapy was also associated with significantly better progression-free survival (PFS), but there were more incidences of adverse events. Pooled results showed no remarkable advantage of BCG combined with Mitomycin C or with interferon α-2b in improving oncologic outcomes. Sensitivity-analyses stratified by study-design and tumor stage led to very similar overall results and often to a decrease of the between-study heterogeneity. Our data confirmed that non-RCT only affected strength rather than direction of the overall results.

Conclusions

All patients with superficial BCa should be encouraged to accept BCG maintenance therapy with standard-dose if well tolerated. Patients can benefit from BCG combined with epirubicin but not from BCG combined with Mitomycin C or interferon α-2b.
Prevalence and risk factors for diabetic retinopathy in a high-risk Chinese population
Authors: Wang Jiao , Zhang Ru-Yi , Chen Rong-Ping , Sun Jia , Yang Rui , Ke Xiao-Yun , Chen Hui , Cai De-Hong
Published: July 2013

Background

Lifestyle plays an important role in the development of diabetic retinopathy. The lifestyle in Guangzhou is different from other cities in China as the Cantonese prefer eating rice porridge, but not spicy foods. The objectives of this study were to investigate the prevalence and determinants of diabetic retinopathy in a high-risk population of Guangzhou.

Methods

Subjects (619 totals) aged over 45 years old, without known diabetes were recruited from five randomly selected Guangzhou communities in 2009–2010. All participants were invited to complete the Finnish Diabetes Risk Score (FINDRISC) questionnaire. Subjects with FINDRISC score ≥ 9 were included in the study, and underwent an investigation of demographic data, a standardized physical examination, ocular fundus examination, and laboratory analyses. The minimum criterion for diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy was the presence of at least one microaneurysm.

Results

Of 619 subjects, 208 eligible subjects (122 women) with FINDRISC score ≥ 9 were included in the study. The mean age was 69.2 ± 8.5 years. Diabetic retinopathy was detected in 31 subjects, and the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy in subjects with high risk for diabetes was 14.9%. In binary logistic regression analysis, risk factors associated with diabetic retinopathy were history of impaired glucose regulation [odds ratio (OR), 7.194; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.083, 47.810], higher hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c; OR, 2.912; 95% CI: 1.009, 8.402), higher two-hour postprandial plasma glucose level (OR, 1.014; 95% CI: 1.003, 1.025), and presence of microalbuminuria (OR, 5.387; 95% CI: 1.255, 23.129).

Conclusions

Diabetic retinopathy was prevalent in a high-risk Chinese population from Guangzhou. Histories of impaired glucose regulation and microalbuminuria were strong risk factors for diabetic retinopathy.
Decreased levels of physical activity in adolescents with down syndrome are related with low bone mineral density: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Matute-Llorente Ángel , González-Agüero Alejandro , Gómez-Cabello Alba , Vicente-Rodríguez Germán , Casajús José Antonio
Published: July 2013

Background

Down syndrome (DS) has been described as one of the main contributors for low bone mineral density (BMD). Physical activity (PA) is a key factor in skeletal health and thus, PA levels might be associated to the risk of developing osteoporosis. Therefore, the aims were (1) to describe PA patterns in adolescents with DS compared to their counterparts and (2) to determine the relationships between PA and the risk of having low bone mass in adolescents with DS.

Methods

Nineteen adolescents (10 girls) with DS and 14 without disabilities (7 girls) participated in the study. Minutes in different PA intensities were objectively assessed with accelerometers (ActiTrainer). Moreover adolescents with DS were classified into PA tertiles taking into account the amount of total minutes of PA at any intensity, resulting in those performing low, medium or high of PA (lowPA, medPA and highPA). BMD was measured at the whole body, hip and lumbar spine with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and the BMD Z-score was calculated for each region taking into account age- and sex-matched reference data. Student’s unpaired t-tests and analysis of covariance were used to compare variables between different conditions (DS vs. control) and PA levels (low, medium and high).

Results

None of the adolescents with DS achieved the minimum of 60 min of daily moderate to vigorous PA (VPA) intensity recommended by PA guidelines; adolescents with DS group spent less time in sedentary and in VPA and more time in light PA than those without DS (p < 0.05). Adolescents with DS showed lower BMD Z-score values than those without (p < 0.05). Those adolescents with DS allocated in the lowPA tertile showed significant lower BMD Z-score at the hip and a general tendency towards lower BMD Z-score was found at whole body and lumbar spine compared to those in highPA tertile and (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Adolescents with DS in the highPA tertile showed lower risk of developing future osteoporosis by having higher BMD Z-score at the hip. This data provides an idea regarding the importance of accumulated minutes of PA, and not only moderate or vigorous in the bone health in adolescents with DS.
Anti-HIV-1 activity, protease inhibition and safety profile of extracts prepared from Rhus parviflora
Authors: Modi Manoj , Nutan  , Pancholi Boskey , Kulshrestha Shweta , Rawat Ajay Kumar Singh , Malhotra Swadesh , Gupta Satish Kumar
Published: July 2013

Background

In the present study, extracts prepared from the leaves of Rhus parviflora Roxb. (Anacardiaceae) were evaluated for their anti-HIV activity, which have been traditionally used for the treatment of neurological disorders such as anxiety, insomnia and epilepsy.

Methods

Aqueous and 50% ethanolic extracts prepared from leaves of the plant were tested for their cytotoxicity and anti-HIV property using reporter gene based assays as well as human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs). Further these extracts were evaluated for their ability to inhibit HIV-1 reverse transcriptase (RT) and protease activity. Safety profile of the extracts was determined on viability of Lactobacillus sp., secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines by vaginal keratinocytes and transepithelial resistance.

Results

Both aqueous (IC50 = 15 μg/ml) and 50% ethanolic (IC50 = 26 μg/ml) extracts prepared from leaves of R. parviflora showed anti-HIV activity in TZM-bl cells wherein the virus was treated with the extracts prior to infection. Further, both the extracts also inhibited virus load in HIV infected CEM-GFP cells and human PBLs. The anti-HIV activity is mediated through inhibition of HIV-1 protease activity. Both the extracts did not disturb the integrity of monolayer formed by intestinal epithelial Caco-2 cells. The extracts when tested up to 100 μg/ml did not significantly reduce the viability of L. plantarum, L. fermentum, L. rhamnosus and L. casei. The extracts (100 μg/ml) did not reveal any cytotoxic effect on vaginal keratinocytes (Vk2/E6E7). Levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines secreted by Vk2/E6E7 cells treated with both the plant extracts were within the non-inflammatory range.

Conclusions

The studies reported herein showed in vitro anti-HIV activity and preliminary safety profile of the extracts prepared from the leaves of R. parviflora.
Gene expression profiling reveals underlying molecular mechanism of hepatoprotective effect of Phyllanthus niruri on thioacetamide-induced hepatotoxicity in Sprague Dawley rats
Authors: Amin Zahra A , Alshawsh Mohammed A , Kassim Mustafa , Ali Hapipah M , Abdulla Mahmood A
Published: July 2013

Background

The liver plays an essential role in the body by regulating several important metabolic functions. Liver injury is associated with the distortion of these functions causing many health problems. Pharmaceutical drugs treat liver disorders but cause further damage to it. Hence, herbal drugs are used worldwide and are becoming increasingly popular.

Methods

The hepatoprotective activity of Phyllanthus niruri (PN) was evaluated against liver cirrhosis induced by thioacetamide (TAA) in male Sprague Dawley rats. Rats received intraperitoneal injections of thioacetamide (TAA, 200 mg/kg, b.w. three times weekly) for eight weeks. Daily treatments with plant extract (200 mg/kg) were administered orally for eight weeks. At the end of the study, hepatic damage was evaluated by monitoring transforming growth factor (TGFβ), collagen α1 (Collα1), matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2) and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP1) gene expression by real-time PCR. Moreover, different chromatographic techniques including column chromatography, thin layer chromatography, and Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC) with Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (LC/MS) were used to isolate the active constituents of the plant.

Results

The results revealed that treatment with PN significantly reduced the effect of thioacetamide toxicity and exhibited effective hepatoprotective activity. The mechanism of the hepatoprotective effect of PN is proposed to be by normalizing ROSs. Additionally, PN treatment regulated the expression of TGFβ, Collα1, MMP2, and TIMP1 genes. In the active fraction of P. niruri, the isolated chemical constituents were 4-O-caffeoylquinic acid and quercetin 3-O-rhamnoside.

Conclusions

The results of the present study indicate that PN ethanol extracts possess hepatoprotective activity that is most likely because of the isolated chemical constituents.
Hemoglobin A1c variability as an independent correlate of cardiovascular disease in patients with type 2 diabetes: a cross-sectional analysis of the Renal Insufficiency and Cardiovascular Events (RIACE) Italian Multicenter Study
Authors: Penno Giuseppe , Solini Anna , Zoppini Giacomo , Orsi Emanuela , Fondelli Cecilia , Zerbini Gianpaolo , Morano Susanna , Cavalot Franco , Lamacchia Olga , Trevisan Roberto , Vedovato Monica , Pugliese Giuseppe ,   for the Renal Insufficiency and Cardiovascular Events (RIACE) Study Group
Published: July 2013

Background

Previous reports have clearly indicated a significant relationship between hemoglobin (Hb) A1c change from one visit to the next and microvascular complications, especially nephropathy (albuminuria and albuminuric chronic kidney disease, CKD). In contrast, data on macrovascular disease are less clear. This study was aimed at examining the association of HbA1c variability with cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the large cohort of subjects with type 2 diabetes from the Renal Insufficiency and Cardiovascular Events (RIACE) Italian Multicenter Study.

Methods

Serial (3–5) HbA1c values obtained during the 2-year period preceding recruitment, including that obtained at the enrolment, were available from 8,290 subjects from 9 centers (out of 15,773 patients from 19 centers). Average HbA1c and HbA1c variability were calculated as the intra-individual mean (HbA1c-MEAN) and standard deviation (HbA1c-SD), respectively, of 4.52±0.76 values. Prevalent CVD, total and by vascular bed, was assessed from medical history by recording previous documented major acute events. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) was assessed by dilated fundoscopy. CKD was defined based on albuminuria, as measured by immunonephelometry or immunoturbidimetry, and estimated glomerular filtration rate, as calculated from serum creatinine.

Results

HbA1c-MEAN, but not HbA1c-SD, was significantly higher (P<0.0001) in subjects with history of any CVD (n. 2,133, 25.7%) than in those without CVD (n. 6,157, 74.3%). Median and interquartile range were 7.78 (7.04-8.56) and 7.49 (6.81-8.31), respectively, for HbA1c-MEAN, and 0.47 (0.29-0.75) and 0.46 (0.28-0.73), respectively, for HbA1c-SD. Logistic regression analyses showed that HbA1c-MEAN, but not HbA1c-SD (and independent of it), was a significant correlate of any CVD. Similar findings were observed in subjects with versus those without any coronary or cerebrovascular event or myocardial infarction. Conversely, none of these measures were associated with stroke, whereas both correlated with any lower limb vascular event and HbA1c-SD alone with ulceration/gangrene. All these associations were independent of known CVD risk factors and microvascular complications (DR and CKD).

Conclusions

In patients with type 2 diabetes, HbA1c variability has not a major impact on macrovascular complications, at variance with average HbA1c, an opposite finding as compared with microvascular disease, and particularly nephropathy.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.Gov NCT00715481
The Chinese version of the pediatric quality of life inventory™ (PedsQL™) healthcare satisfaction generic module (version 3.0): psychometric evaluation
Authors: Li Jialing , Yuan Lianxiong , Wu Yu , Luan Yunzhu , Hao Yuantao
Published: July 2013

Background

Healthcare satisfaction is an important indicator in quality of healthcare evaluations. Instruments with psychometric evaluation for pediatric healthcare satisfaction in China have been rarely studied. The PedsQL™ 3.0 Healthcare Satisfaction Generic Module was a widely used instrument designed to measure parents’ satisfaction of the healthcare for their children with chronic diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the PedsQL™ 3.0 Healthcare Satisfaction Generic Module.

Methods

We used the standard procedure of cross-culture adaptation to develop the Chinese version of the PedsQL™ 3.0 Healthcare Satisfaction Generic Module. We administered the scale to 354 parents with children experiencing chronic diseases from 5 third-grade class-A hospitals in Guangzhou by the convenience sampling method. The psychometric properties of the scale were evaluated.

Results

The response rate was 94.4%. All the subscales reached the minimum reliability standard of 0.70 for Cronbach’s alpha coefficient and the recommended test-retest reliability standard of 0.80 for intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC s). There were higher correlation coefficients between items and their hypothesized subscales than those with other subscales. Confirmatory factor analysis showed that the scale had adequate construct validity with the main indexes of goodness of fit CFI and RMSEA as 0.99 and 0.078, respectively.

Conclusions

The results demonstrate that the Chinese version of the PedsQL™ 3.0 Healthcare Satisfaction Generic Module is a feasible instrument with adequate psychometric properties.
Surface grafting of electrospun fibers using ATRP and RAFT for the control of biointerfacial interactions
Authors: Ameringer Thomas , Ercole Francesca , Tsang Kelly M , Coad Bryan R , Hou Xueliang , Rodda Andrew , Nisbet David R , Thissen Helmut , Evans Richard A , Meagher Laurence , Forsythe John S
Published: July 2013

Background

The ability to present signalling molecules within a low fouling 3D environment that mimics the extracellular matrix is an important goal for a range of biomedical applications, both in vitro and in vivo. Cell responses can be triggered by non-specific protein interactions occurring on the surface of a biomaterial, which is an undesirable process when studying specific receptor-ligand interactions. It is therefore useful to present specific ligands of interest to cell surface receptors in a 3D environment that minimizes non-specific interactions with biomolecules, such as proteins.

Method

In this study, surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization (SI-ATRP) of poly(ethylene glycol)-based monomers was carried out from the surface of electrospun fibers composed of a styrene/vinylbenzyl chloride copolymer. Surface initiated radical addition-fragmentation chain transfer (SI-RAFT) polymerisation was also carried out to generate bottle brush copolymer coatings consisting of poly(acrylic acid) and poly(acrylamide). These were grown from surface trithiocarbonate groups generated from the chloromethyl styrene moieties existing in the original synthesised polymer. XPS was used to characterise the surface composition of the fibers after grafting and after coupling with fluorine functional XPS labels.

Results

Bottle brush type coatings were able to be produced by ATRP which consisted of poly(ethylene glycol) methacrylate and a terminal alkyne-functionalised monomer. The ATRP coatings showed reduced non-specific protein adsorption, as a result of effective PEG incorporation and pendant alkynes groups existing as part of the brushes allowed for further conjugation of via azide-alkyne Huisgen 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition. In the case of RAFT, carboxylic acid moieties were effectively coupled to an amine label via amide bond formation. In each case XPS analysis demonstrated that covalent immobilisation had effectively taken place.

Conclusion

Overall, the studies presented an effective platform for the preparation of 3D scaffolds which contain effective conjugation sites for attachment of specific bioactive signals of interest, as well as actively reducing non-specific protein interactions.
Some results for Apostol-type polynomials associated with umbral algebra
Authors: Lu Da-Qian , Xiang Chang-He , Luo Qiu-Ming
Published: July 2013

A family of the Apostol-type polynomials was introduced and investigated recently by Luo and Srivastava (see (Appl. Math. Comput. 217:5702-5728, 2011)). In this paper, we study this polynomial family on P, the algebra of polynomials in a single variable x over all linear functional on P. By using the way of the umbral algebra, we obtain some fundamental properties of the generalized Apostol-type polynomials. We also show some special cases which include the corresponding results of Dere and Simsek etc.

MSC:05A40, 11B68, 05A10, 05A15.
Isolation and multilineage differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells from abattoir-derived bovine fetuses
Authors: Cortes Yennifer , Ojeda Margarita , Araya Diego , Dueñas Fernando , Fernández María S , Peralta Oscar A
Published: July 2013

Background

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are multipotent progenitor cells localized in the stromal compartment of the bone marrow (BM). The potential of MSC for mesenchymal differentiation has been well documented in different animal models predominantly on rodents. However, information regarding bovine MSC (bMSC) is limited, and the differentiation potential of bMSC derived from fetal BM remains unknown. In the present study we sought to isolate bMSC from abattoir-derived fetal BM and to characterize the multipotent and differentiation potential under osteogenic, chondrogenic and adipogenic conditions by quantitative and qualitative analyses.

Results

Plastic-adherent bMSC isolated from fetal BM maintained a fibroblast-like morphology under monolayer culture conditions. These cells expressed high levels of MSC surface markers (CD73, CD90, and CD105) and low levels of hematopoietic surface markers (CD34 and CD45). Culture of bMSC under osteogenic conditions during a 27-day period induced up-regulation of the osteocalcin (OC) gene expression and alkaline phosphatase (ALPL) activity, and promoted mineralization of the matrix. Increasing supplementation levels of ascorbic acid to culture media enhanced osteogenic differentiation of bMSC; whereas, reduction of FBS supplementation compromised osteogenesis. bMSC increased expression of cartilage-specific genes aggrecan (ACAN), collagen 2A1 (COL2A1) and SRY (sex-determining region Y) box 9 (SOX9) at Day 21 of chondrogenic differentiation. Treatment of bMSC with adipogenic factors increased levels of fatty acid-binding protein 2 (AP2) mRNA and accumulation of lipid vacuoles after 18 days of culture. NANOG mRNA levels in differentiating bMSC were not affected during adipogenic culture; however, osteogenic and chondrogenic conditions induced higher and lower levels, respectively.

Conclusions

Our analyses revealed the potential multilineage differentiation of bMSC isolated from abattoir-derived fetal BM. NANOG mRNA pattern in differentiating bMSC varied according to differentiation culture conditions. The osteogenic differentiation of bMSC was affected by ascorbic acid and FBS concentrations in culture media. The simplicity of isolation and the differentiation potential suggest that bMSC from abattoir-derived fetal BM are appropriate candidate for investigating MSC biology and for eventual applications for regenerative therapy.
Palliative radiotherapy in patients with a poor performance status: the palliative effect is correlated with prolongation of the survival time
Authors: Yamaguchi Shinsaku , Ohguri Takayuki , Matsuki Yuichi , Yahara Katsuya , Narisada Hiroyuki , Imada Hajime , Korogi Yukunori
Published: July 2013

Background

The purpose of this study was to analyze the efficacy and tolerability of palliative radiotherapy (RT) in patients with a poor performance status (PS) and to evaluate the relationship between the palliative effect and survival time.

Methods

One hundred and thirty-three patients with a poor PS (Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group 3 or 4) were treated with palliative RT using the three-dimensional conformal technique and retrospectively analyzed. Each patient's primary symptom treated with palliative RT as the major cause of the poor PS was evaluated using the second item of the Support Team Assessment Schedule (STAS) at the start and one week after the completion of palliative RT.

Results

One hundred and fourteen (86%) of the 133 patients completed the planned palliative radiation dose. Grade 3 acute toxicity was observed in two patients (2%) and Grade 2 acute toxicity was observed in 10 patients (9%). No Grade 2 or higher late toxicities were observed, except for Grade 3 radiation pneumonitis in one patient. Improvement in the STAS scores between pre- and post-palliative RT was recorded in 76 (61%) of the 125 patients with available scores of STAS. A significant improvement in the mean STAS score between pre- and post-palliative RT was recognized (p < 0.0001). Improvement in the STAS score was found to be the most statistically significant prognostic factor for overall survival after palliative RT in both the multivariate and univariate analyses. The median overall survival time in the patients with an improvement in the STAS score was 6.4 months, while that in the patients without improvement was 2.4 months (p < 0.0005).

Conclusions

Palliative RT in patients with a poor PS provides symptomatic benefits in more than half of patients without inducing severe toxicities. The palliative effect is strongly correlated with prolongation of the survival time and may contribute to improving the remaining survival time in patients with metastatic/advanced cancer with a poor PS.
Surgery for subclavian arteriovenous fistula with ruptured pseudoaneurysm using total circulatory arrest
Authors: Jung Tae-Eun , Kwon Jin-Tae , Lee Dong-Hyup , Lee Jang-Hoon , Shon Oog-Jin
Published: July 2013

Subclavian arteriovenous (AV) fistula is an uncommon disease and rarely occurs secondary to injury. We herein report a case of a ruptured pseudoaneurysm with a subclavian AV fistula caused by clavicle fixation. In cases of a large ruptured pseudoaneurysm with a massive surrounding hematoma, bleeding control and vessel repair is very difficult. For treatment of this case, we decided that median sternotomy and cardiopulmonary bypass with total circulatory arrest would be a good alternative to surgery.
SURF1 deficiency: a multi-centre natural history study
Authors: Wedatilake Yehani , Brown Ruth M , McFarland Robert , Yaplito-Lee Joy , Morris Andrew A M , Champion Mike , Jardine Phillip E , Clarke Antonia , Thorburn David R , Taylor Robert W , Land John M , Forrest Katharine , Dobbie Angus , Simmons Louise , Aasheim Erlend T , Ketteridge David , Hanrahan Donncha , Chakrapani Anupam , Brown Garry K , Rahman Shamima
Published: July 2013

Background

SURF1 deficiency, a monogenic mitochondrial disorder, is the most frequent cause of cytochrome c oxidase (COX) deficient Leigh syndrome (LS). We report the first natural history study of SURF1 deficiency.

Methods

We conducted a multi-centre case notes review of 44 SURF1-deficient patients from ten different UK centres and two Australian centres. Survival data for LRPPRC-deficient LS and nuclear-encoded complex I-deficient LS patients were obtained from previous publications. The survival of SURF1-deficient patients was compared with these two groups using Kaplan- Meier survival analysis and logrank test.

Results

The majority of patients (32/44, 73%) presented in infancy (median 9.5 months). Frequent symptoms were poor weight gain (95%, median age 10 months), hypotonia (93%, median age 14 months), poor feeding/vomiting (89%, median age 10 months), developmental delay (88%, median age 14 months), developmental regression (71%, median age 19 months), movement disorder (52%, median age 24 months), oculomotor involvement (52%, median age 29 months) and central respiratory failure (78%, median age 31 months). Hypertrichosis (41%), optic atrophy (23%), encephalopathy (20%), seizures (14%) and cardiomyopathy (2%) were observed less frequently.

Lactate was elevated in CSF (mean 4.3 mmol/L) in all patients (30/30) and in blood (mean 4.4 mmol/L) in 31/38 (81%). Fibroblast COX activity was universally decreased (25/25). Normal COX histochemistry was noted in 30% of biopsies, whereas muscle COX activity was reduced in 96% (25/26). Neuroimaging demonstrated lesions characteristic of LS in 28/33 (85%) and atypical findings in 3/33 (9%). Peripheral neuropathy was present in 13/16 (81%) (demyelinating 7/16, axonal 2/16). Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated that SURF1-deficient patients experience longer survival (median 5.4 years, p < 0.001) compared to LRPPRC deficiency (median 1.8 years) and nuclear-encoded complex I-deficient LS (median 1.6 years). Survival >10 years was observed in 7 patients, 6 of these patients did not experience neurological regression. The most frequent mutation was c.312_320del10insAT. Five novel mutations (c.468_469delTC, c.799_800delCT, c.575G>A (p.Arg192Gln), c.751+5G>A and c.752-2A>G) were identified.

Conclusions

SURF1-deficient patients have a homogeneous clinical and biochemical phenotype. Early recognition is essential to expedite diagnosis and enable prenatal diagnosis.