bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Profiling Cellular Processes in Adipose Tissue during Weight Loss Using Time Series Gene Expression
Authors: Tareen Samar H. K. , Adriaens Michiel E. , Arts Ilja C. W. , De Kok Theo M. , Vink Roel G. , Roumans Nadia J. T. , Van Baak Marleen A. , Mariman Edwin C. M. , Evelo Chris T. , Kutmon Martina
Published: October 2018

Obesity is a global epidemic identified as a major risk factor for multiple chronic diseases and, consequently, diet-induced weight loss is used to counter obesity. The adipose tissue is the primary tissue affected in diet-induced weight loss, yet the underlying molecular mechanisms and changes are not completely deciphered. In this study, we present a network biology analysis workflow which enables the profiling of the cellular processes affected by weight loss in the subcutaneous adipose tissue. Time series gene expression data from a dietary intervention dataset with two diets was analysed. Differentially expressed genes were used to generate co-expression networks using a method that capitalises on the repeat measurements in the data and finds correlations between gene expression changes over time. Using the network analysis tool Cytoscape, an overlap network of conserved components in the co-expression networks was constructed, clustered on topology to find densely correlated genes, and analysed using Gene Ontology enrichment analysis. We found five clusters involved in key metabolic processes, but also adipose tissue development and tissue remodelling processes were enriched. In conclusion, we present a flexible network biology workflow for finding important processes and relevant genes associated with weight loss, using a time series co-expression network approach that is robust towards the high inter-individual variation in humans.
Computer-Aided Surgical Simulation for Yaw Control of the Mandibular Condyle and Its Actual Application to Orthognathic Surgery: A One-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Kim Ju-Won , Kim Jong-Cheol , Cheon Kyeong-Jun , Cho Seoung-Won , Kim Young-Hee , Yang Byoung-Eun
Published: October 2018

Background: Favourable occlusal interdigitation and an optimized position of the mandibular condyle after surgery are essential for obtaining favourable results. The position of the condyle is determined during the operation. However, it is difficult to maintain the condyle’s original position post-surgery despite the efforts of the surgeons. Indeed, a degree of rotation of the condyle is unavoidable, since it is difficult to verify whether the condyle is positioned correctly during surgery. Purpose: To maximize contact between the bone segments, the condyle was rotated around the vertical axis using surgical simulations. We examined changes to the condyle-fossa relationship after comparing virtual surgery to actual surgery. Methods: From 2015 to 2017, 20 patients were diagnosed with skeletal malocclusion and participated in computer-aided surgical simulation before undergoing orthognathic surgery. In the simulation, the mandibular condyles were rotated around the vertical axis, and the proximal segments were fixed to the distal segments using a customized miniplate and positioning device during actual surgery. This study investigated the relationship between the condyle and fossa using cone-beam computed tomography for several different time periods (preoperative (T0), virtual surgery (Tv), postoperative three days (T1) and one year (T2)). Results: The coronal and sagittal view exhibited significant differences in the mean values between T1and T0, Tv, and T2 for all joint spaces. As a result of the distance, the mean value of T2 in both the superior joint space (JS) and the lateral JS was significantly higher than that of Tv. In contrast, the mean value of Tv in the medial JS was significantly higher than that of T2. Moreover, the mean value of T2 on the axial plane was significantly larger than the values of Tv and T1. The mean value of T0 was also significantly larger than those of Tv and T1, and the mean value of Tv was larger than that of T1. Although the condyle was rotated, it exhibited a tendency to return to its preoperative position. There was no statistically significant difference in functional evaluation between T0 and T2. Conclusion: Our method of using yaw control for the condyle during virtual surgery and transferring this technique to the actual surgery can improve the conventional surgical technique by positioning the proximal segment in a pre-planned position, thus achieving optimal results.
Mental Health Recovery of Evacuees and Residents from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Accident after Seven Years—Contribution of Social Network and a Desirable Lifestyle
Authors: Orui Masatsugu , Nakajima Satomi , Takebayashi Yui , Ito Akiko , Momoi Maho , Maeda Masaharu , Yasumura Seiji , Ohto Hitoshi
Published: October 2018

The 2011 Fukushima nuclear accident resulted in the exposure to radiation and evacuation, which has created psychological distress among the Fukushima residents. With the provision of multi-faceted support and the progress of the reconstruction, their mental health has appeared to show signs of recovery. However, there have been few studies investigating their recovery. To clarify the related factors associated with mental health recovery, a cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted. Subjects whose answers were associated with Resilience, Recovery, and Remitting patterns of mental health status were categorized in the Recovery group, while those associated with Delayed/Chronic dysfunction were placed in the Non-recovered group. In a multivariable logistic regression analysis, disaster-related unemployment (odds ratio (OR): 0.80, 95% CI (confidence interval): 0.65–0.99) and economic hardship (OR: 0.80, 95% CI: 0.65–0.98) were associated with the hindrance of recovery. In contrast, overall good health (OR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.20–1.80), regular physical activity (OR: 1.23, 95% CI: 1.01–1.50), social interaction with friends (OR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.00–1.55), and established social roles (OR: 1.44, 95% CI: 1.14–1.82) were associated with the promotion of recovery. In conclusion, our study showed a positive association between mental health recovery and a desirable lifestyle and social network, particularly with social roles. Thus, the provision of active social roles can promote recovery related to a disaster as with multi-faceted support.
Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in People with Rare Hereditary Connective Tissue Disorders: Marfan Syndrome
Authors: Hanisch Marcel , Wiemann Sabrina , Jung Susanne , Kleinheinz Johannes , Bohner Lauren
Published: October 2018

Background: The aim of this study was to analyze data on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in people with Marfan syndrome and to obtain information on the diagnosis period, orthodontic treatment, and oral symptoms. Methods: A questionnaire was developed consisting of open questions and the standardized German version of the OHIP-14 (Oral Health Impact Profile) questionnaire for the evaluation of OHRQoL. The age of diagnosis, time period from the first signs of the disease to diagnosis, and OHIP-values were compared between male and female participants. Additionally, the OHIP-values between participants who were orthodontically treated and those who were not treated were assessed. The statistical analysis was performed using the Mann–Whitney test with a significance level at p = 0.05. Results: A total of 51 questionnaires were evaluated, which included 34 female and 17 male participants. Overall, 84% of respondents reported oral symptoms. Male respondents tended to diagnose the disease earlier (p = 0.00), with a smaller period between the first symptom and the diagnosis (p = 0.04). The OHIP-14 score was gender-neutral at 13.65 ± 13.53 points. Conclusion: In Marfan syndrome, many years (12.01 ± 11.61) elapse between the onset of first symptoms and correct diagnosis of the disease. People with Marfan syndrome have a worse OHRQoL than do the general population.
Spatial Analysis of Socio-Economic and Demographic Factors Associated with Contraceptive Use among Women of Childbearing Age in Rwanda
Authors: Habyarimana Faustin , Ramroop Shaun
Published: October 2018

Contraceptive use is considered as essential for protecting women’s health and rights, influencing fertility and population growth, and helping to promote economic development. The main objective of this study was to analysis the factors and spatial correlates of contraceptive use among women of childbearing age. The 2015 Rwanda Demographic and Health Survey (RDHS) data were used to identify the factors associated with contraceptive use in Rwanda. A Bayesian geo-additive model was used in order to account for fixed effects, nonlinear effects, spatial and random effects inherent in the data. The overall prevalence of use of any contraceptive method among married women of childbearing age in Rwanda was 52.7%. A woman’s age, wealth quintile, level of education, working status, number of living children, and exposure to the media was found to increase contraceptive use. The findings from the study also found disparities in contraceptive use at provincial and district level, where prevalence was higher in districts of Northern provinces and lower in districts of western provinces. The findings of this study suggest that exposure to information on contraceptive use in health centres, empowerment of women to access quality contraceptive-use services and religions to play an important role in explaining and informing their adherents on the importance of using a contraceptive method.
Media Exposure and General Trust as Predictors of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder: Ten Years after the 5.12 Wenchuan Earthquake in China
Authors: He Lingnan , Lai Kaisheng , Lin Zhongxuan , Ma Zhihao
Published: October 2018

There is a paucity of literature on the roles of media exposure, general trust, and their interactions in long-term post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms after a natural disaster. Trying to address this knowledge gap, our study aimed to (a) investigate whether exposure to media coverage during the traumatic event and general trust directly affected adult survivors’ long-term PTSD symptoms 10 years after the 5.12 Wenchuan earthquake, and (b) to identify the potential differential pattern of the influence of media exposure on PTSD symptoms for adult survivors with various levels of general trust. Using cross-sectional methodology, we surveyed participants (N = 1000) recruited from six disaster-affected counties. We assessed PTSD symptoms, media exposure, general trust, demographic characteristics, socioeconomic status, and earthquake exposure. Data were analyzed descriptively and with Tobit regression analyses. Reversed relationships between general trust and PTSD were verified, whereas no direct links were found between media exposure and PTSD. Interaction tests revealed that media exposure alleviated PTSD for high-trust survivors, but aggravated PTSD for low-trust survivors. These results suggest that general trust building should be considered in post-disaster construction activities.
The Status of Cardiovascular Health in Rural and Urban Areas of Janów Lubelski District in Eastern Poland: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Nowicki Grzegorz Józef , Ślusarska Barbara , Piasecka Honorata , Bartoszek Agnieszka , Kocka Katarzyna , Deluga Alina
Published: October 2018

Ideal cardiovascular health (CVH) has been defined by the American Heart Association as the lack of cardiovascular disease and the presence of seven key factors and health behaviors. In this study, we aimed to estimate the prevalence of ideal and poor CVH among the Polish adult population based on the example of the inhabitants of Janów district in Lubelskie Voivodship, taking the chosen socio-demographic factors into consideration. This is a cross-sectional study conducted among 3901 adults without cardiovascular diseases, aged between 35 and 64 years. Participants completed a questionnaire, and they had anthropometric and physiological measurements taken. Blood samples were analyzed for fasting glucose and cholesterol levels. Ideal CVH was found in 5.4% of the participants, with the advantage of being toward city dwellers over those living in the rural areas (6.3% vs. 5.0%) p = 0.02. In the case of the residents of rural areas, their likelihood of having an ideal body mass index (BMI) was found to be 22% lower (odds ratio (OR) = 0.78; 95% CI: 0.66–0.92), their likelihood of having an ideal diet was found to be 27% lower (OR = 0.71; 95% CI: 0.54–0.94), their likelihood of having perfect blood pressure was found to be 29% lower (OR = 0.71; 95% CI: 0.56–0.89), and their likelihood of having the perfect glucose levels was found to be 28% lower (OR = 0.72; 95% CI: 0.63–0.84), than the residents of urban areas. The prevalence of ideal cardiovascular behaviors and factors is lower in the rural community compared with people living in the city. Results indicate that more effort should be dedicated toward the country’s health policy, specifically concerning primary prevention. Preventive actions in the field of cardiovascular disease should be addressed to the residents of rural areas to a larger extent.
Associations between Positive Health-Related Effects and Soundscapes Perceptual Constructs: A Systematic Review
Authors: Aletta Francesco , Oberman Tin , Kang Jian
Published: October 2018

In policy-making and research alike, environmental sounds are often considered only as psychophysical stressors, leading to adverse health effects. The soundscape approach, on the other hand, aims to extend the scope of sound-related research to consider sounds as resources, promoting healthy and supportive environments. The ISO 12913-1 standard defined soundscapes as acoustic environments “as perceived by people, in context.” The aim of this study was assessing associations between positive soundscapes (e.g., pleasant, calm, less annoying) and positive health-related effects (e.g., increased restoration, reduced stress-inducing mechanisms, etc.). Studies collecting data about individual responses to urban acoustic environments, and individual responses on psychophysical well-being were selected, looking at cases where positive effects were observed. The Web of Science, Scopus and PubMed databases were searched for peer-reviewed journal papers published in English between 1 January 1991 and 31 May 2018, with combinations of the keywords “soundscape” and at least one among “health”, “well-being” or “quality of life.” An additional manual search was performed on the reference lists of the retrieved items. Inclusion criteria were: (1) including at least one measure of soundscape dimensions as per the ISO 12913-1 definition; (2) including at least one health-related measure (either physiological or psychological); (3) observing/discussing a “positive” effect of the soundscape on the health-related outcome. The search returned 130 results; after removing duplicates, two authors screened titles and abstracts and selected 19 papers for further analysis. Seven studies were eventually included, with 2783 participants in total. Each study included at least a valence-related soundscape measure. Regarding the health-related measures, four studies included physiological monitoring and the remaining three included self-reported psychological measures. Positive soundscapes were associated with faster stress-recovery processes in laboratory experiments, and better self-reported health conditions in large-scale surveys. Due to the limited number of items and differences in measures across studies, no statistical analysis was performed, and a qualitative approach to data synthesis was sought. Results support the claim that, in contrast with looking at noise only as an environmental stressor, sound perception can act as an enhancer of the human experience in the urban realm, from a health-related point of view.
Understanding Health Promotion Policy Processes: A Study of the Government Adoption of the Achievement Program in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Clarke Brydie , Swinburn Boyd , Sacks Gary
Published: October 2018

Despite the growing health and economic burden associated with overweight and obesity, preventive policy progress has been deficient globally. This study investigated the policy process involved in the adoption of the Achievement Program, a settings-based health promotion intervention that was a key pillar of the Healthy Together Victoria obesity prevention initiative. The qualitative study utilised multiple theories of the policy process, as well as Causal Loop Diagramming (CLD) methods, to understand the policy systems underlying the decision to adopt the Achievement Program. Factors that impacted this obesity prevention policy adoption included problem prioritisation at Federal and state government levels; political risks regarding policy action and inaction, and framing used by policy advocates to reduce risks and highlight the opportunities related to the Achievement Program policy implementation. The use of CLD methods was advantageous to further conceptualise potential leverage points and effective ways to influence obesity prevention policy in future. As such, the findings contribute to the obesity prevention policy evidence base and toward developing a number of recommended actions for policy actors seeking to increase future policy action.
Street Dust—Bound Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in a Saudi Coastal City: Status, Profile, Sources, and Human Health Risk Assessment
Authors: Shabbaj Ibrahim I. , Alghamdi Mansour A. , Khoder Mamdouh I.
Published: October 2018

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in street dust pose a serious problem threatening both the environment and human health. Street dust samples were collected from five different land use patterns (traffic areas TRA, urban area URA, residential areas REA, mixed residential commercial areas MCRA and suburban areas SUA) in Jeddah, a Saudi coastal city, and one in in Hada Al Sham, a rural area (RUA). This study aimed to investigate the status, profile, sources of PAHs and estimate their human health risk. The results revealed an average concentration of total PAHs of 3320 ng/g in street dust of Jeddah and 223 ng/g in RUA dust. PAHs with high molecular weight represented 83.38% of total PAHs in street dust of Jeddah, while the carcinogenic PAH compounds accounted 57.84%. The highest average concentration of total PAHs in street dust of Jeddah was found in TRA (4980 ng/g) and the lowest in REA (1660 ng/g). PAHs ratios indicated that the principal source of PAHs in street dust of Jeddah is pyrogenic, mainly traffic emission. Benzo(a)anthracene/chrysene (BaA/CHR) ratio suggests that PAHs in street dusts of Jeddah come mainly from emission of local sources, while PAHs in RUA might be transported from the surrounding urban areas. The estimated Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk (ILCR) associated with exposure to PAHs in street dusts indicated that both dermal contact and ingestion pathways are major contributed to cancer risk for both children and adults. Based on BaPequivalence concentrations of total PAHs, ILCRIngestion, ILCRdermal and cancer risk values for children and adults exposed to PAHs in street dust of different areas in Jeddah were found between 10−6 and 10−4, indicating potential risk. The sequence of cancer risk was TRA > URA > MCRA > SUA > REA. Only exposure to BaP and DBA compounds had potential risk for both children and adults.
Earthworms, Rice Straw, and Plant Interactions Change the Organic Connections in Soil and Promote the Decontamination of Cadmium in Soil
Authors: Elyamine Ali Mohamed , Moussa Mohamed G. , Ismael Marwa A. , Wei Jia , Zhao Yuanyuan , Wu Yupeng , Hu Chengxiao
Published: October 2018

The joint effects of earthworms and crop straw on toxic metal speciation are not clear, and very limited information is available regarding the effects of their interaction on Cd mobility in Cd contaminated soil or in remediation processes involving plants. This study evaluated their impacts on Cd mobile form changes in soil and their effects on Cd uptake by plants. Treatments included both planted and unplanted-Cd-contaminated soil with or without rice straw and/or earthworms. The results revealed that earthworms, rice straw, and plant interactions change the Cd mobile forms in soil. The order of Cd concentration of different chemical forms was as follows: exchangeable > residual > bound to Fe-Mn oxide > bound to organic matter for earthworms, and exchangeable > bound to organic matter > residual > bound to Fe-Mn oxide for rice straw treatment, with a recovery rate of 96 ± 3%. The accumulation of Cd in plants increased in the presence of earthworms and decreased in the presence of rice straw. FT-IR spectra indicated that the degradation of rice straw increases C–O, C–O–H, C–H, and O–H functional groups which could complex with Cd ions. These findings highlighted that earthworms’ activities and crop straw can modify soil properties and structure and promote the remediation of heavy metal. This study suggests that the ecological context of remediation instead of being limiting on soil-earthworms-plant interaction, should integrate the natural resources forsaken which can provide a positive influence on both plant health and the remediation of heavy metal in contaminated soil.
Air Quality and Health
Authors: Buonanno Giorgio , Hänninen Otto
Published: October 2018

In the Editorial “Air pollution and health” that appeared in Environ. [...]
WHO Environmental Noise Guidelines for the European Region: A Systematic Review on Environmental Noise and Quality of Life, Wellbeing and Mental Health
Authors: Clark Charlotte , Paunovic Katarina
Published: October 2018

This systematic review assesses the quality of the evidence across studies on the effect of environmental noise (road traffic noise, aircraft noise, railway noise, wind-turbine noise) on quality of life, wellbeing and mental health. Quantitative studies of noise effects on children and adults published from January 2005 up to October 2015 were reviewed. A total of 29 papers were identified. 90% of the papers were of cross-sectional design, with fewer studies of longitudinal or intervention design. Outcomes included depression and anxiety, medication use and childhood emotional problems. The quality of the evidence across the studies for each individual noise source was assessed using an adaptation of the GRADE methodology. Overall, given the predominance of cross-sectional studies, most evidence was rated as very low quality, with evidence of effects only being observed for some noise sources and outcomes. These ratings reflect inconsistent findings across studies, the small number of studies and a lack of methodological robustness within some domains. Overall, there are few studies of clinically significant mental health outcomes; few studies of railway noise exposure; and studies of large samples are needed. The lack of evidence for noise effects across studies for many of the quality of life, wellbeing and mental health domains examined does not necessarily mean that there are no effects: rather, that they have not yet been studied robustly for different noise sources.
Measurement of Opportunity Cost of Travel Time for Predicting Future Residential Mobility Based on the Smart Card Data of Public Transportation
Authors: Maeda Takashi Nicholas , Mori Junichiro , Ochi Masanao , Sakimoto Tetsuo , Sakata Ichiro
Published: October 2018

This study attempts to investigate a method for creating an index from mobility data that not only correlates with the number of people who relocate to a place, but also has causal influence on the number of such individuals. By creating an index based on human mobility data, it becomes possible to predict the influence of urban development on future residential movements. In this paper, we propose a method called the travel cost method for multiple places (TCM4MP) by extending the conventional travel cost method (TCM). We assume that the opportunity cost of travel time on non-working days reflects the convenience and amenities of a neighborhood. However, conventional TCM does not assume that the opportunity cost of travel time varies according to the departure place. In this paper, TCM4MP is proposed to estimate the opportunity cost of travel time with respect to the departure place. We consider such estimation to be possible due to the use of massive mobility data. We assume that the opportunity cost of travel time on non-working days reflects the convenience and amenities of the neighborhood. Therefore, we consider that the opportunity cost of travel time has a causal influence on future residential mobility. In this paper, the validity of the proposed method is tested using the smart card data of public transportation in Western Japan. Our proposed method is beneficial for urban planners in estimating the effects of urban development and detecting the shrinkage and growth of a population.
Reactive Oxygen Species-Mediated Damage of Retinal Neurons: Drug Development Targets for Therapies of Chronic Neurodegeneration of the Retina
Authors: Rohowetz Landon J. , Kraus Jacob G. , Koulen Peter
Published: October 2018

The significance of oxidative stress in the development of chronic neurodegenerative diseases of the retina has become increasingly apparent in recent years. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are free radicals produced at low levels as a result of normal cellular metabolism that are ultimately metabolized and detoxified by endogenous and exogenous mechanisms. In the presence of oxidative cellular stress, ROS are produced in excess, resulting in cellular injury and death and ultimately leading to tissue and organ dysfunction. Recent studies have investigated the role of excess ROS in the pathogenesis and development of chronic neurodegenerative diseases of the retina including glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration. Findings from these studies are promising insofar as they provide clear rationales for innovative treatment and prevention strategies of these prevalent and disabling diseases where currently therapeutic options are limited. Here, we briefly outline recent developments that have contributed to our understanding of the role of ROS in the pathogenesis of chronic neurodegenerative diseases of the retina. We then examine and analyze the peer-reviewed evidence in support of ROS as targets for therapy development in the area of chronic neurodegeneration of the retina.
The Controversial Role of TGF-β in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration Pathogenesis
Authors: Tosi Gian Marco , Orlandini Maurizio , Galvagni Federico
Published: October 2018

The multifunctional transforming growth factors-beta (TGF-βs) have been extensively studied regarding their role in the pathogenesis of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), a major cause of severe visual loss in the elderly in developed countries. Despite this, their effect remains somewhat controversial. Indeed, both pro- and antiangiogenic activities have been suggested for TGF-β signaling in the development and progression of nAMD, and opposite therapies have been proposed targeting the inhibition or activation of the TGF-β pathway. The present article summarizes the current literature linking TGF-β and nAMD, and reviews experimental data supporting both pro- and antiangiogenic hypotheses, taking into account the limitations of the experimental approaches.
Guided Evolution of Recombinant Bombyx mori Acetylcholinesterase II by Homology Modeling to Change Pesticide Sensitivity
Authors: Cai Jun , Wang Bingfeng , Li Jiadong , Chen Zijian , Rao Meifang , Muyldermans Serge , Hua Xiude , Xie Xi , Wang Hong , Yang Jinyi , Xu Zhenlin , Shen Yudong , Sun Yuanming
Published: October 2018

Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) has been widely used for the detection of organophosphate and carbamate pesticides, due to its high sensitivity and low limit of detection to the presence of pesticides. The homology modeled recombinant Bombyx mori Acetylcholinesterase II (rBm-AChE II) and docking results with multiple pesticides inferred that Y398, located at the bottleneck of the active site gorge, might be important for enzyme sensitivity. Thus, three mutants (Y398G, Y398F, Y398W) were constructed and exhibited different enzyme activities and sensitivities. The results showed that Y398W possessed a remarkably increased enzyme activity, while Y398F had a significant reduction. The Y398F has an approximately 2-fold lower IC50 for some pesticides than the wild type enzyme, indicating a higher sensitivity. With the detailed investigation of the conformations of computer simulation, we propose that for the positively charged and small substrate ATChI, a larger side chain at position 398 improves the fixation of the substrate in an appropriate conformation for catalysis. For bulky substrates such as pesticides, the diffusion in the active site gorge may be related to the enlargement of the bottleneck by having proper orientations more easily. In addition, a more hydrophobic side chain at the bottleneck seemed to be beneficial for ligand diffusion.
Role of the Complement System in the Response to Orthopedic Biomaterials
Authors: Mödinger Yvonne , Teixeira Graciosa Q. , Neidlinger-Wilke Cornelia , Ignatius Anita
Published: October 2018

Various synthetic biomaterials are used to replace lost or damaged bone tissue that, more or less successfully, osseointegrate into the bone environment. Almost all biomaterials used in orthopedic medicine activate the host-immune system to a certain degree. The complement system, which is a crucial arm of innate immunity, is rapidly activated by an implanted foreign material into the human body, and it is intensely studied regarding blood-contacting medical devices. In contrast, much less is known regarding the role of the complement system in response to implanted bone biomaterials. However, given the increasing knowledge of the complement regulation of bone homeostasis, regeneration, and inflammation, complement involvement in the immune response following biomaterial implantation into bone appears very likely. Moreover, bone cells can produce complement factors and are target cells of activated complement. Therefore, new bone formation or bone resorption around the implant area might be greatly influenced by the complement system. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge on biomaterial-mediated complement activation, with a focus on materials primarily used in orthopedic medicine. In addition, methods to modify the interactions between the complement system and bone biomaterials are discussed, which might favor osseointegration and improve the functionality of the device.
Administration of Downstream ApoE Attenuates the Adverse Effect of Brain ABCA1 Deficiency on Stroke
Authors: Wang Xiaohui , Li Rongwen , Zacharek Alex , Landschoot-Ward Julie , Wang Fengjie , Wu Kuan-Han Hank , Chopp Michael , Chen Jieli , Cui Xu
Published: October 2018

The ATP-binding cassette transporter member A1 (ABCA1) and apolipoprotein E (ApoE) are major cholesterol transporters that play important roles in cholesterol homeostasis in the brain. Previous research demonstrated that specific deletion of brain-ABCA1 (ABCA1−B/−B) reduced brain grey matter (GM) and white matter (WM) density in the ischemic brain and decreased functional outcomes after stroke. However, the downstream molecular mechanism underlying brain ABCA1-deficiency-induced deficits after stroke is not fully understood. Adult male ABCA1−B/−B and ABCA1-floxed control mice were subjected to distal middle-cerebral artery occlusion and were intraventricularly infused with artificial mouse cerebrospinal fluid as vehicle control or recombinant human ApoE2 into the ischemic brain starting 24 h after stroke for 14 days. The ApoE/apolipoprotein E receptor 2 (ApoER2)/high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels and GM/WM remodeling and functional outcome were measured. Although ApoE2 increased brain ApoE/HDL levels and GM/WM density, negligible functional improvement was observed in ABCA1-floxed-stroke mice. ApoE2-administered ABCA1−B/−B stroke mice exhibited elevated levels of brain ApoE/ApoER2/HDL, increased GM/WM density, and neurogenesis in both the ischemic ipsilateral and contralateral brain, as well as improved neurological function compared with the vehicle-control ABCA1−B/−B stroke mice 14 days after stroke. Ischemic lesion volume was not significantly different between the two groups. In vitro supplementation of ApoE2 into primary cortical neurons and primary oligodendrocyte-progenitor cells (OPCs) significantly increased ApoER2 expression and enhanced cholesterol uptake. ApoE2 promoted neurite outgrowth after oxygen-glucose deprivation and axonal outgrowth of neurons, and increased proliferation/survival of OPCs derived from ABCA1−B/−B mice. Our data indicate that administration of ApoE2 minimizes the adverse effects of ABCA1 deficiency after stroke, at least partially by promoting cholesterol traffic/redistribution and GM/WM remodeling via increasing the ApoE/HDL/ApoER2 signaling pathway.
β-Naphtoflavone and Ethanol Induce Cytochrome P450 and Protect towards MPP+ Toxicity in Human Neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y Cells
Authors: Fernandez-Abascal Jesus , Ripullone Mariantonia , Valeri Aurora , Leone Cosima , Valoti Massimo
Published: October 2018

Cytochrome P450 (CYP) isozymes vary their expression depending on the brain area, the cell type, and the presence of drugs. Some isoforms are involved in detoxification and/or toxic activation of xenobiotics in central nervous system. However, their role in brain metabolism and neurodegeneration is still a subject of debate. We have studied the inducibility of CYP isozymes in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells, treated with β-naphtoflavone (β-NF) or ethanol (EtOH) as inducers, by qRT-PCR, Western blot (WB), and metabolic activity assays. Immunohistochemistry was used to localize the isoforms in mitochondria and/or endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Tetrazolium (MTT) assay was performed to study the role of CYPs during methylphenyl pyridine (MPP+) exposure. EtOH increased mRNA and protein levels of CYP2D6 by 73% and 60% respectively. Both β-NF and EtOH increased CYP2E1 mRNA (4- and 1.4-fold, respectively) and protein levels (64% both). The 7-ethoxycoumarin O-deethylation and dextromethorphan O-demethylation was greater in treatment samples than in controls. Furthermore, both treatments increased by 22% and 18%, respectively, the cell viability in MPP+-treated cells. Finally, CYP2D6 localized at mitochondria and ER. These data indicate that CYP is inducible in SH-SY5Y cells and underline this in vitro system for studying the role of CYPs in neurodegeneration.
Integration between ROS Regulatory Systems and Other Signals in the Regulation of Various Types of Heat Responses in Plants
Authors: Katano Kazuma , Honda Kohey , Suzuki Nobuhiro
Published: October 2018

Because of their sessile lifestyle, plants cannot escape from heat stress and are forced to alter their cellular state to prevent damage. Plants, therefore, evolved complex mechanisms to adapt to irregular increases in temperature in the natural environment. In addition to the ability to adapt to an abrupt increase in temperature, plants possess strategies to reprogram their cellular state during pre-exposure to sublethal heat stress so that they are able to survive under subsequent severe heat stress. Such an acclimatory response to heat, i.e., acquired thermotolerance, might depend on the maintenance of heat memory and propagation of long-distance signaling. In addition, plants are able to tailor their specific cellular state to adapt to heat stress combined with other abiotic stresses. Many studies revealed significant roles of reactive oxygen species (ROS) regulatory systems in the regulation of these various heat responses in plants. However, the mode of coordination between ROS regulatory systems and other pathways is still largely unknown. In this review, we address how ROS regulatory systems are integrated with other signaling networks to control various types of heat responses in plants. In addition, differences and similarities in heat response signals between different growth stages are also addressed.
Spatial Distribution of Glucan Type and Content between Caps and Stalks in Pleurotus eryngii: Impact on the Anti-inflammatory Functionality
Authors: Vetvicka Vaclav , Gover Ofer , Hayby Hilla , Danay Ofer , Ezov Nirit , Hadar Yitzhak , Schwartz Betty
Published: October 2018

Pleurotus eryngii is recognized for its prominent nutritional and medicinal value. In our study, we tested the effect of glucans on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced production of TNF-α. We demonstrated that glucan extracts are more effective than mill mushroom preparations. Additionally, the effectiveness of stalk-derived glucans were slightly more pronounced than of caps. Cap and stalk glucans from mill or isolated glucan competed dose-dependently with anti-Dectin-and anti-CR-3 antibodies, indicating that they contain β-glucans recognized by these receptors. Using the dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-inflammatory bowel disease mice model, intestinal inflammatory response to the mill preparations was measured and compared to extracted glucan fractions from caps and stalks. We found that mill and glucan extracts were very effective in downregulating IFN-γ and MIP-2 levels and that stalk-derived preparations were more effective than from caps. The tested glucans were equally effective in regulating the number of CD14/CD16 monocytes and upregulating the levels of fecal-released IgA to almost normal levels. In conclusion, the most effective glucans in ameliorating some IBD-inflammatory associated symptoms induced by DSS treatment in mice were glucan extracts prepared from the stalk of P. eryngii. These spatial distinctions may be helpful in selecting more effective specific anti-inflammatory mushrooms-derived glucans.
Efficient Heterologous Production of Rhizopus oryzae Lipase via Optimization of Multiple Expression-Related Helper Proteins
Authors: Jiao Liangcheng , Zhou Qinghua , Su Zhixin , Yan Yunjun
Published: October 2018

This study is dedicated to efficiently produce Rhizopus oryzae lipase (ROL) by optimizing the expression of multiple expression-related helper proteins in Pichia pastoris. A series of engineered strains harboring different copy numbers of the ROL gene and different copies of the chaperone Pdi gene were first constructed to examine the influence of Pdi gene copy number on ROL production. The results showed that multiple copies of Pdi gene did not significantly improve ROL expression. Then, the effect of the co-overexpression of 10 expression-related helper proteins on ROL secretion was investigated by screening 20 colonies of each transformants. The data from shaking-flask fermentation suggested that Ssa4, Bmh2, Sso2, Pdi, Bip, Hac1, and VHb had positive effects on ROL expression. Subsequently, Ssa4, Bmh2, and Sso2, which all participate in vesicular trafficking and strongly promote ROL expression, were combined to further improve ROL production level. ROL activity of the screened strain GS115/5ROL-Ssa4-Sso2-Bmh2 4# attained 5230 U/mL. Furthermore, when the helper proteins Pdi, Bip, Hac1, and VHb were individually co-expressed with ROL in the strain GS115/5ROL-Ssa4-Sso2-Bmh2 4#, lipase activity increased to 5650 U/mL in the strain GS115/5ROL-Ssa4-Sso2-Bmh2-VHb 9#. Additionally, the maximum ROL activity of 41,700 U/mL was achieved in a 3 L bioreactor for high-density fermentation via a sorbitol–methanol co-feeding strategy, reaching almost twofold the value of the initial strain GS115/pAOα-5ROL 11#. Thus, the strategies in this study significantly increased ROL expression level, which is of great potential for the large-scale production of ROL in P. pastoris.
A Novel Design Combining Isothermal Exponential Amplification and Gold-Nanoparticles Visualization for Rapid Detection of miRNAs
Authors: Jiang Jiquan , Zhang Bin , Zhang Chi , Guan Yifu
Published: October 2018

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in a wide range of biological processes, and their aberrant expressions are associated with various diseases. The levels of miRNAs can be useful biomarkers for cellular events or disease diagnosis; thus, sensitive and selective detection of microRNAs is of great significance in understanding biological functions of miRNAs, early-phase diagnosis of cancers, and discovery of new targets for drugs. However, traditional approaches for the detection of miRNAs are usually laborious and time-consuming, with a low sensitivity. Here, we develop a simple, rapid, ultrasensitive colorimetric assay based on the combination of isothermal Exponential Amplification Reaction (EXPAR) and AuNP-labeled DNA probes for the detection of miRNAs (taking let-7a as a model analyte). In this assay, the presence of let-7a is converted to the reporter Y through EXPAR under isothermal conditions. The subsequent sandwich hybridization of the reporter Y with the AuNP-labeled DNA probes generates a red-to-purple color change. In other words, if the reporter Y is complementary to the AuNP-labeled DNA probes, the DNA-functionalized AuNPs will be aggregated, resulting in the change of solution color from red to purple/blue, while when the AuNP-labeled DNA probes are mismatched to the reporter Y, the solution remains red. This assay represents a simple, time-saving technique, and its results can be visually detected with the naked eye due to the colorimetric change. The method provides superior sensitivity, with a detection limit of 4.176 aM over a wide range from 1 nM to 1 aM under optimal conditions. The method also shows high selectivity for discriminating even single-nucleotide differences between let-7 miRNA family members. Notably, it is comparable to the most sensitive method reported to date, thus providing a promising alternative to standard approaches for the direct detection of let-7a miRNA. Importantly, through combination with specific templates, different miRNAs can be converted to the same reporter Y, which can hybridize with the same set of AuNP-labeled DNA probes to form sandwich hybrids. The color change of the solution can be observed in the presence of the target miRNA. This technique has potential as a routine method for assessing the levels of miRNAs, not only for let-7, but also for various miRNAs in the early phase of cancers. In addition, it can be a useful tool in biomedical research and clinical diagnosis, as well as diagnosis or surveillance programs in field conditions.
The Potential Role of a Soluble γ-Chain Cytokine Receptor as a Regulator of IL-7-Induced Lymphoproliferative Disorders
Authors: Kim Geona , Jo Yuna , Lee Byunghyuk , Ali Laraib Amir , Lee Boae , Hong Changwan
Published: October 2018

IL-7 is an essential, nonredundant growth factor for T and B cell generation and maintenance. While IL-7 deficiency results in lymphopenia, overexpression of IL-7 can cause neoplasia in experimental models. IL-7’s involvement in neoplasia has been appreciated through studies of IL-7 transgenic (Tg) mice models and human lymphoma patients. Since we recently found that a soluble form of the common γ-chain (γc) cytokine receptor (sγc) antagonistically regulates IL-7 signaling, IL-7 and sγc double-Tg mice were generated to investigate the effects of sγc overexpression in IL-7-mediated lymphoproliferative disorders (LPDs). The overexpression of sγc prevents IL-7Tg-induced abnormal increase of LN cell numbers and the development of splenomegaly, resulting in striking amelioration of mortality and disease development. These results suggest that modification of γc cytokine responsiveness by sγc molecules might control various γc cytokine-associated hematologic malignancy, and also provide an alternative view to approach antitumor therapy.
Effects of an Interchain Disulfide Bond on Tropomyosin Structure: A Molecular Dynamics Study
Authors: Koubassova Natalia A. , Bershitsky Sergey Y. , Tsaturyan Andrey K.
Published: October 2018

Tropomyosin (Tpm) is a coiled-coil actin-binding dimer protein that participates in the regulation of muscle contraction. Both Tpm chains contain Cys190 residues which are normally in the reduced state, but form an interchain disulfide bond in failing heart. Changes in structural and functional properties of Tpm and its complexes with actin upon disulfide cross-linking were studied using various experimental methods. To understand the molecular mechanism underlying these changes and to reveal the possible mechanism of the involvement of the cross-linking in heart failure, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of the middle part of Tpm were performed in cross-linked and reduced states. The cross-linking increased bending stiffness of Tpm assessed from MD trajectories at 27 °C in agreement with previous experimental observations. However, at 40 °C, the cross-linking caused a decrease in Tpm stiffness and a significant reduction in the number of main chain hydrogen bonds in the vicinity of residues 133 and 134. These data are in line with observations showing enhanced thermal unfolding of the least stable part of Tpm at 30–40 °C and accelerated trypsin cleavage at residue 133 at 40 °C (but not at 27 °C) upon cross-linking. These results allow us to speculate about the possible mechanism of involvement of Tpm cross-linking to heart failure pathogenesis.
5-Aminolevulinic Acid Improves Nutrient Uptake and Endogenous Hormone Accumulation, Enhancing Low-Temperature Stress Tolerance in Cucumbers
Authors: Anwar Ali , Yan Yan , Liu Yumei , Li Yansu , Yu Xianchang
Published: October 2018

5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) increases plant tolerance to low-temperature stress, but the physiological and biochemical mechanisms that underlie its effects are not fully understood. To investigate them, cucumber seedlings were treated with different ALA concentrations (0, 15, 30 and 45 mg/L ALA) and subjected to low temperatures (12/8 °C day/night temperature). The another group (RT; regular temperature) was exposed to normal temperature (28/18 °C day/night temperature). Low-temperature stress decreased plant height, root length, leaf area, dry mass accumulation and the strong seedling index (SSI), chlorophyll contents, photosynthesis, leaf and root nutrient contents, antioxidant enzymatic activities, and hormone accumulation. Exogenous ALA application significantly alleviated the inhibition of seedling growth and increased plant height, root length, hypocotyl diameter, leaf area, and dry mass accumulation under low-temperature stress. Moreover, ALA increased chlorophyll content (Chl a, Chl b, Chl a+b, and Carotenoids) and photosynthetic capacity, net photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (Gs), intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci), and transpiration rate (Tr), as well as the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD, catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and glutathione reductase (GR) enzymes, while decreasing hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), superoxide (O2•−), and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents under low-temperature stress. In addition, nutrient contents (N, P, K, Mg, Ca, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn) and endogenous hormones (JA, IAA, BR, iPA, and ZR) were enhanced in roots and leaves, and GA4 and ABA were decreased. Our results suggest the up-regulation of antioxidant enzyme activities, nutrient contents, and hormone accumulation with the application of ALA increases tolerance to low-temperature stress, leading to improved cucumber seedling performance.