bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anti-fibrotic effect of Cordyceps sinensis polysaccharide: Inhibiting HSC activation, TGF-β1/Smad signalling, MMPs and TIMPs
Authors: Peng Jinghua , Li Xuemei , Feng Qin , Chen Liang , Xu Lili , Hu Yiyang
Published: August 2013

Cordyceps sinensis has been used to treat liver disease in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Polysaccharide extracted from cultured Cordyceps sinensis mycelia (CS-PS) is the major active components of cordyceps sinensis with anti-liver injury effects. In the present study, the effects of CS-PS on hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)/Smad pathway, as well as matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 2, MMP9 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP) 1, TIMP2, were investigated in liver fibrosis in rats induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). Colchicine was used as a positive control. The effect of CS-PS inhibition liver injury and fibrosis was confirmed by decreasing serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total bilirubin, hepatic hydroxyproline and increasing serum albumin, as well as alleviation of histological changes, which was comparable to that of colchicine. With CS-PS treatment, hepatic α-smooth muscle actin, TGF-β1, TGF-β1 receptor (TβR)-I, TβR-II, p-Smad2, p-Smad3 and TIMP2 proteins expression were down-regulated comparing to that in CCl4 group. The activities of MMP2 and MMP9 in liver tissue were also inhibited in CS-PS-treated group. It is indicated that the effects of CS-PS anti-liver fibrosis are probably associated with the inhibition on HSC activation, TGF-β1/Smads signalling pathway, as well as MMP2, MMP9 activity and TIMP2 expression.
Reconstitution of anti-allergic activities of PG102 derived fromActinidia argutaby combining synthetic chemical compounds
Authors: Kim Donghyun , Choi Jinyong , Kim Mi-Jeong , Kim Seon Hee , Cho Sang Heon , Kim Sunyoung
Published: August 2013

PG102, a water-soluble extract from an edible fruit, Actinidia arguta, has previously been shown to control various factors involved in allergy pathogenesis. It was investigated whether the original activities of PG102 could be reconstituted by mixing chemical compounds present in PG102. Six compounds present in PG102 were, individually or in the form of mixtures, tested for their effects on the expression of various Th2 cytokines and inflammatory mediators in the cell-based assay. Each chemical inhibited IL-4 expression to varying degrees. The chemical compounds were combined at a ratio present in PG102, resulting in two formulations, CQMIIH and CQM, consisting of all or the first three of the following chemicals, citric, quinic, and malic acids, myo-inositol, isoquercitrin, and 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furaldehyde. The mixtures reconstituted original activities of PG102 to a significant level. In the murine asthma model, CQM ameliorated asthmatic symptoms and significantly decreased the level of IgE and IL-5. The decreased phosphorylation of ERK1/2 was observed in cells and mice treated with PG102 and the mixtures. Our data indicated that the substantial portion of PG102’s anti-allergic activities could be reconstituted, in vitro and in vivo, by mixing six chemical compounds, suggesting the possibility of developing a new type of anti-allergic agent. This approach may be useful for developing chemically defined functional products from complex botanical extracts.
Erythropoietin promotes the repair effect of acute kidney injury by bone-marrow mesenchymal stem cells transplantation
Authors: Liu Nanmei , Han Guofeng , Cheng Jin , Huang Jian , Tian Jun
Published: August 2013

Bone-marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) transplantation is effective for acute kidney injury (AKI) repair but with limited efficiency. In the present study, BMSCs marked by bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) were transplanted to the AKI mouse model with erythropoietin (EPO) being subcutaneously injected. The blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (Scr) levels, pathological changes, distribution of BMSCs, expressions of the cytokeratin 18 (CK18) and the stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1) in the nephridial tissues were measured. The directional migration of BMSCs to the AKI microenvironment in vitro was also tested. The results showed that BMSCs transplantation or EPO injection alone decreased the BUN and Scr levels and the acute tubular necrosis (ATN) scoring in varied degrees. The combination of these decreased the above indicators’ levels significantly. BrdU+ cells (BMSCs) were observed in the AKI nephridial tissues, and CK18 expressed in the cytoplasm of these cells. EPO injection increased the proportion of BrdU+ cells with the enhanced expression of SDF-1 in the AKI nephridial tissues. EPO increased the migrating number of BMSCs to the AKI microenvironment in vitro, and additional anti-SDF-1 treatment with SDF-1 antibody neutralized this effect. Our results showed that EPO increased the number of the transplanted BMSCs in the injured nephridial tissues and enhanced the AKI repair effect of BMSCs transplantation. The enhanced kidney-homing efficiency for BMSCs mediated by the SDF-1/CXCR4 pathway is one of the possible mechanisms for EPO performance.
Role of HO-1 in protective effect of electro-acupuncture against endotoxin shock-induced acute lung injury in rabbits
Authors: Jianbo Yu , Shuan Dong , Xiaoqing Luo , Lirong Gong , Yuan Zhang , Man Wang , Xinshun Cao , Daquan Liu
Published: August 2013

Heme oxygenase (HO)-1 has been reported to play a great role in attenuating lung injury during endotoxic shock in our previous research. Although electro-acupuncture has been explored to reduce oxidative stress and decrease inflammatory reaction in animals with endotoxic shock, the mechanism of this effect is still unclear. The aim of this study was to determine whether HO-1 is involved in the effect of electro-acupuncture on the injured lung during endotoxic shock in rabbits. Sixty New England white rabbits were randomly divided into groups C, Z, ES, EA, AP, and EAZ. Before inducing endotoxic shock, group ES received no electro-acupuncture, while group EA received electro-acupuncture at ST36 (zusanli) and BL13 (feishu) acupoints on both sides for five days and group AP received electro-acupuncture (EA) stimulation at a non-acupoint. Groups ES, AP, EA, and EAZ received LPS to replicate the experimental model of injured lung induced by endotoxic shock, and electro-acupuncture was performed throughout the procedure with the same parameter. Groups EAZ and Z received the HO-1 inhibitor, ZnPP-IX, intraperitoneally. The animals were sacrificed by blood-letting at 6 h after LPS administration. The blood samples were collected for serum examination, and the lungs were removed for pathology examination, detection of alveolaer epithelial cell apoptosis by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling assay (TUNEL assay), determination of wet to dry ratio, measurement of Evans blue (EB) contents, and determination of HO-1protein and mRNA expression. According to the results , EA at ST36 and BL13 could increase the expression of HO-1. At the same time, index of quantitative assessment (IQA) score and the number of TUNEL-positive cells decreased, while electro-acupuncture at the other points did not exert this effect, and pretreatment with ZnPP-IX in group EAZ suppressed the efficacy of electro-acupuncture preconditioning. In summary, electro-acupuncture stimulation at ST36 and BL13, while not the non-acupoint, could attenuate the lung injury during the endotoxic shock, and this effect was due to increased expression of HO-1.
Effect of mesenchymal stem cells on renal injury in rats with severe acute pancreatitis
Authors: Chen Zhiyao , Lu Fengchun , Fang Haizong , Huang Heguang
Published: August 2013

The aim of this study was to preliminarily investigate the effect of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on structural change of capillary endothelial barrier and expression variation of aquaporin 1 (AQP1) in kidney at the onset of renal injury caused by severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). Ninety male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were divided into the control group, the SAP group in which animals received induction of SAP and the MSCs-treated group in which SAP-induced animals were injected with MSCs. They were further subdivided according to the time point that the animals were killed; 6 h, 12 h and 24 h after the closure of the incision, serum, pancreatic and renal samples were collected, respectively. The level of serum amylase (AMY), creatinine (Cr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were analysed, the change of pancreatic histology was assessed, the structural change of the renal interstitial capillaries was evaluated using the transmission electron microscope (TEM) and the location and expression of AQP1 in kidney were analysed using immunohistochemistry, quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. The outcomes showed that the level of serum AMY, Cr, BUN elevated, the damage of pancreatic tissue and renal capillary endothelial barrier was aggravated and the expression of AQP1 was reduced significantly after induced pancreatitis. But after treatments with MSCs, the elevation of AMY, Cr and BUN was inhibited, the damage of pancreatic tissue and renal interstitial capillary barrier was alleviated and the down-regulation of AQP1 was reversed. In summary, the MSCs therapy could alleviate renal injury in rats with SAP, the mechanism of which might be related to reduction of the damage to renal interstitial capillary endothelial barrier, and up-expression of AQP1 in kidney.
The Contribution of Kinematics in the Assessment of Upper Limb Motor Recovery Early After Stroke
Authors: van Dokkum Liesjet , Hauret Isabelle , Mottet Denis , Froger Jerome , Métrot Julien , Laffont Isabelle
Published: August 2013

Background. Kinematic assessment of upper limb motor recovery after stroke may be related to clinical scores while being more sensitive and reliable than clinical evaluation alone. Objective. To identify the potential of kinematics in assessing upper limb recovery early poststroke. Methods. Thirteen patients were included within 1 month poststroke and evaluated once a week for 6 weeks and at 3 months with ( a) the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) and ( b) kinematic analysis of reach-to-grasp movements. The link between clinical and kinematic data was identified using mixed model with random coefficient analysis. Results. Movement time, trajectory length, directness, smoothness, mean and maximum velocity of the hand were sensitive to change over time and distinguished between movements of paretic, nonparetic, and healthy control limbs. The FMA score increased with movement smoothness over time, explaining 62.5% of FMA variability. Conclusion. Kinematic analysis of reach-to-grasp movements is relevant to assess upper limb recovery early poststroke, and is linked to the FMA. Kinematics could provide more accurate real-time indicators of patients’ recovery as compared with the sole use of clinical scores, although it remains challenging to establish the universality of the reaching model in relation to motor recovery after stroke.
Dietary Strategy to Repair Plasma Membrane After Brain Trauma
Authors: Wu Aiguo , Ying Zhe , Gomez-Pinilla Fernando
Published: August 2013

Background. Damage to the plasma membrane is a prevalent but often neglected aspect of traumatic brain injury (TBI), which can impair neuronal signaling and hamper neurological recovery. Objective. This study was performed to assess a new noninvasive intervention to counteract peroxidative damage to the phospholipids in the membrane using the powerful action of foods. Although dietary docosahexaenoic acid (C22:6n-3; DHA) provides protection against TBI, the pervasive effects of TBI that cause phospholipid damage, including to DHA, raises concerns about how to preserve DHA in the brain for optimal functional recovery. Methods. Rats were maintained on curcumin and/or DHA-enriched diets for 2 weeks postinjury, and their brains were subjected to analyses. Results. Fluid percussion injury reduced DHA levels as well as levels of enzymes involved in the metabolism of DHA such as FADS2 and 17β-HSD4 and elevated levels of markers of lipid peroxidation such as 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE) and 4-hydroxy-2-hexenal (4-HHE). These effects were counteracted by DHA or curcumin, whereas the combination of curcumin and DHA had an enhanced effect on DHA and 4-HNE. The combination of curcumin and DHA was also efficient in counteracting reductions in the plasticity markers, brain-derived neurotrophic factor and its receptor p-trkB, and learning ability, which had been lessened after TBI. Conclusions. Curcumin complements the action of DHA on TBI pathology, and this property appears to be a viable strategy to counteract neuronal dysfunction after TBI and complement the application of rehabilitative interventions to foster functional recovery.
Emerging therapies and latest development in the treatment of unresectable pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors: an update for clinicians
Authors: Sharma Jaya , Duque Marvin , Saif M. Wasif
Published: August 2013

Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) differ in their clinical behavior, presentation and prognosis based on their initial histological features and disease stage. While small resectable tumors can be treated surgically, metastatic and locally advanced disease carries a significant mortality and treatment options have been limited in terms of their efficacy. Streptozocin-based regimens were the only agents available before but recent advances have improved the armamentarium to treat pNETs. Newer chemotherapeutic agents such as temozolomide, somatostatin analogs and targeted therapies including everolimus and sunitinib are now available to treat these tumors. Several combination regimens with targeted therapies and newer agents such as pazopanib are being developed and tested in ongoing trials.
Symptom attribution and risk perception in individuals with idiopathic environmental intolerance to electromagnetic fields and in the general population
Authors: van Dongen Diana , Smid Tjabe , Timmermans Daniëlle RM
Published: August 2013

Aim:

To investigate differences in health perception and electromagnetic fields (EMF) between people within the general population reporting sensitivity or non-sensitivity to EMF, and people who registered themselves as sensitive to EMF at a non-governmental organisation (NGO).

Methods:

Correlations and regression analysis to compare a sample of the general population recruited via internet panel to individuals with idiopathic environmental intolerance to EMF (IEI-EMF) recruited via an interest group.

Results:

The general population sensitive group was more similar to the non-sensitive group in personal characteristics than to the NGO sensitive group. They experienced more – and more frequent – non-specific symptoms, reported higher perceived risk of EMF, and attributed their symptoms more to EMF than the non-sensitive group, but less than the NGO sensitive group. There was a positive association between attribution of symptoms to EMF and reported intensity of non-specific symptoms, which was stronger for the NGO sensitive subjects than for the general population.

Conclusions:

People sensitive to EMF and recruited via an internet panel differ from people sensitive to EMF and recruited via an NGO, who reported a higher frequency of non-specific symptoms. Attribution of symptoms to EMF is one of the predictors of the intensity of physical symptoms. Changing the perceived association between EMF and health problems in individuals with IEI-EMF might contribute to a better health experience.
The effect of material characteristics and mould parameters on the thermoforming of thick polypropylene sheets
Authors: Kumar P Shyam , Kumar G Kiran , Kommoji Satish , Banerjee Ritima , Ghosh Anup K
Published: August 2013

Two grades of 5 mm thick polypropylene (PP) sheets, one having linear polymer chains (PP-TF-1) and the other having long-chain branches (PP-TF-2), were drape formed, using moulds of different parameters. Single-sided heating of sheet was found to be suitable only at lower depths of draw. Double-sided heating gave good part shape conformance at all depths of draw. PP-TF-2 was found to have lower crystallinity than PP-TF-1, suggesting that it would have a lower sagging tendency and would give parts with more uniform wall thickness distribution. This was confirmed in formability studies. At higher depths of draw, an increase in draft angle was found to give more uniform wall thickness distribution, maintaining reasonable values of wall thickness. At lower depths of draw, draft angle was found to have no influence on product quality. Irrespective of material characteristics and other mould parameters, only moulds with generous values of corner radii gave strong corners.
Pyocyanin-induced mucin production is associated with redox modification of FOXA2
Authors: Hao Yonghua , Kuang Zhizhou , Xu Ying , Walling Brent E , Lau Gee W
Published: August 2013

Background

The redox-active pyocyanin (PCN) is a toxic, secondary metabolite secreted by the respiratory pathogenPseudomonas aeruginosa (PA). Previously, we have shown that mouse lungs chronically exposed to PCN develop goblet cell hyperplasia and metaplasia (GCHM) and mucus hypersecretion, fibrosis and emphysema. These pathological features are commonly found in the airways of several chronic lung diseases, including cystic fibrosis (CF), as well as in mouse airways deficient in the forkhead box A2 (FOXA2), a transcriptional repressor of goblet GCHM and mucus biosynthesis. Furthermore, PCN inhibits FOXA2 by activating the pro-GCHM signaling pathways Stat6 and EGFR. However, it is not known whether PCN-generated reactive oxygen (ROS) and nitrogen (RNS) species posttranslationally modify and inactivate FOXA2.

Methods

We examined the posttranslational modifications of FOXA2 by PCN using specific antibodies against oxidation, nitrosylation, acetylation and ubiquitination. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) was used to examine the ability of modified FOXA2 to bind the promoter ofMUC5Bmucin gene. In addition, we used quantitative real time PCR, ELISA, immunofluorescence and mouse lung infection to assess whether the loss of FOXA2 function caused GCHM and mucin overexpression. Finally, we examined the restoration of FOXA2 function by the antioxidant glutathione (GSH).

Results

We found that PCN-generated ROS/RNS caused nitrosylation, acetylation, ubiquitination and degradation of FOXA2. Modified FOXA2 had reduced ability to bind the promoter of theMUC5Bgene. The antioxidant GSH alleviated the modification of FOXA2 by PCN, and inhibited the overexpression of MUC5AC and MUC5B mucins.

Conclusion

These results suggest that PCN-mediated posttranslational modifications of FOXA2 are positively correlated with GCHM and overexpression of airway mucins. Furthermore, antioxidant treatment restores the function of FOXA2 to attenuate GCHM and mucus hypersecretion.
Interferon beta 1b following natalizumab discontinuation: one year, randomized, prospective, pilot trial
Authors: Gobbi Claudio , Meier Dominik S , Cotton François , Sintzel Martina , Leppert David , Guttmann Charles R G , Zecca Chiara
Published: August 2013

Background

Natalizumab (NTZ) discontinuation leads to multiple sclerosis reactivation.

The objective of this study is to compare disease activity in MS patients who continued on NTZ treatment to those who were switched to subcutaneous interferon 1b (IFNB) treatment.

Methods

1-year randomized, rater-blinded, parallel-group, pilot study (ClinicalTrial.gov ID: NCT01144052). Relapsing remitting MS patients on NTZ for ≥12 months who had been free of disease activity on this therapy (no relapses and disability progression for ≥6 months, no gadolinium-enhancing lesions on baseline MRI) were randomized to NTZ or IFNB. Primary endpoint was time to first on-study relapse. Additional clinical, MRI and safety parameters were assessed. Analysis was based on intention to treat.

Results

19 patients (NTZ n=10; IFNB n=9) with similar baseline characteristics were included. 78% of IFNB treated patients remained relapse free (NTZ group: 100%), and 25% remained free of new T2 lesions (NTZ group: 62.5%). While time to first on-study relapse was not significantly different between groups (p=0.125), many secondary clinical and radiological endpoints (number of relapses, proportion of relapse free patients, number of new T2 lesions) showed a trend, or were significant (new T2 lesions at month 6) in favoring NTZ.

Conclusions

De-escalation therapy from NTZ to IFNB over 1 year was associated with some clinical and radiological disease recurrence. Overall no major safety concerns were observed.
Bone marrow-derived progenitor cells in end-stage lung disease patients
Authors: Gilpin Sarah E , Lung Kalvin , de Couto Geoffrey T , Cypel Marcelo , Sato Masaaki , Singer Lianne G , Keshavjee Shaf , Waddell Thomas K
Published: August 2013

Background

Chronic lung diseases are marked by progressive inflammation, tissue damage and remodelling. Bone marrow-derived progenitor cells may contribute to these processes. The objectives of this study were to (1) to quantify CD45+Collagen-1+ fibrocytes and a novel epithelial-like population of bone marrow-derived cells, which express Clara Cell Secretory Protein, in patients at the time of lung transplant and (2) to evaluate mediators that may act to recruit these cells during injury.

Methods

Using an observational design, progenitor cells were quantified by flow cytometry from both bone marrow (BM) and peripheral blood (PB). Migration was tested using in vitro transwell assays. Multiplex bead-based assays were used to quantify plasma cytokines.

Results

An increase in CD45+Collagen-1+ fibrocytes was found in pulmonary fibrosis and bronchiolitis obliterans patients. Cystic fibrosis patients had an increase in CCSP+ cells in both the BM and PB. The proportion of CCSP+ cells in the BM and PB was correlated. CCSP+ cells express the chemokine receptors CCR2, CCR4, CXCR3, and CXCR4, and significantly migrated in vitro toward Stromal Derived Factor-1 (SDF-1) and Stem Cell Growth Factor-β (SCGF-β). Plasma cytokine levels differed between disease groups, with a significant correlation between SCGF-β and CCSP+ cells and between Monocyte Chemotactic Protein-1 and fibrocytes.

Conclusions

Different bone marrow-derived cells are found in various lung diseases. Increased fibrocytes were associated with fibrotic lung diseases. An increase in the novel CCSP+ epithelial-like progenitors in cystic fibrosis patients was found. These differences may be mediated by alterations in plasma cytokines responsible for cell recruitment.
Frequent use of blood-saving measures in elective orthopaedic surgery: a 2012 Dutch blood management survey
Authors: Voorn Veronique MA , Marang-van de Mheen Perla J , Wentink Manon M , So-Osman Cynthia , Vliet Vlieland Thea PM , Koopman-van Gemert Ankie WMM , Nelissen Rob GHH , Van Bodegom-Vos Leti ,   for the LISBOA study group
Published: August 2013

Background

Blood loss in hip and knee arthroplasties may necessitate allogeneic blood transfusions. Different blood-saving measures (BSMs) were introduced to reduce these transfusions. Purpose of the present study was to assess the frequency of BSM use, stratified by type and hospital setting of orthopaedic departments in the Netherlands.

Methods

An internet-based questionnaire was sent to all heads of orthopaedic departments of Dutch hospitals and private clinics (n = 99). Questions were asked on how often BSMs were used, reported on a 5-point Likert scale (never, almost never, regularly, almost always, always). In addition there were questions about discontinuation of anticoagulants preoperatively, the number of annually performed arthroplasties (size) and hospital setting.

Results

The survey was completed by 81 (82%) departments. BSMs used frequently (regularly, almost always, always) were erythropoietine (EPO), with 55 (68%) departments being frequent users; acute normovolemic hemodilution, used frequently in 26 (32%) departments; cell saver in 25 (31%) and postoperative drainage and re-infusion in 56 (69%) departments. When compared by size, frequent EPO use was more common in large departments (with 22 (88%) large departments being frequent users versus 13 (63%) small departments and 16 (55%) intermediate departments, p = 0.03). No differences by size or type were observed for other BSMs.

Conclusions

Compared with previous survey’s there is a tremendous increase in use of BSMs. EPO and autologous blood salvage techniques are the most often used modalities. Costs might be saved if use of non-cost-effective BSMs is stopped.
Potential biomarkers for adult acute myeloid leukemia minimal residual disease assessment searched by serum peptidome profiling
Authors: Bai Ju , He Aili , Zhang Wanggang , Huang Chen , Yang Juan , Yang Yun , Wang Jianli , Zhang Yang
Published: August 2013

Background

Post treatment minimal residual disease (MRD) determination contributes to impending relapse prediction, chemotherapy response and clinical outcomes assessment, guiding clinicians to develop reasonable and effective individual chemotherapy options after induction/consolidation. This study was to identify serum candidate peptides for monitoring adult acute myeloid leukemia (AML) MRD.

Results

47 statistically different expressed peptide peaks were obtained in the molecular weight range of 700-10000 Da. Quick classifier (QC) model had optimal distinction efficiency, in the training set with a sensitivity of 90% and a specificity of 93.33%. Peptides were identified as ubiquitin-like modifier activating enzyme 1(UBA1), isoform 1 of fibrinogen alpha chain precursor and platelet factor 4(PF4). The peptide up-regulated in newly diagnosed AML patients were decreased to the normal level after CR. When refractory & relapsed, relative intensity was elevated again. Results were contrary to down-regulated peptide peaks. Western blot demonstrated that levels of the UBA1 protein did not differ between the leukemia and normal cells. Levels of isoform 1 of fibrinogen alpha chain precursor protein and PF4 protein were both decreased in leukemia cells comparing with normal cells. The serum levels of the PF4 in the newly diagnosed AML patients and healthy controls were significantly different. Further correlation analysis did not indicate the correlated relation between platelet counts and PF4 content, the correlation coefficient was 0.097. Kaplan–Meier analyses of overall survival showed that relative intensity of peptides was correlated with patient’s clinical outcome.

Conclusions

We speculate the peptides can be used as potential markers for monitoring minimal residual disease and clinical outcome assessment.
Sulfur/graphitic hollow carbon sphere nano-composite as a cathode material for high-power lithium-sulfur battery
Authors: Shin Eon Sung , Kim Min-Seop , Cho Won Il , Oh Si Hyoung
Published: August 2013

The intrinsic low conductivity of sulfur which leads to a low performance at a high current rate is one of the most limiting factors for the commercialization of lithium-sulfur battery. Here, we present an easy and convenient method to synthesize a mono-dispersed hollow carbon sphere with a thin graphitic wall which can be utilized as a support with a good electrical conductivity for the preparation of sulfur/carbon nano-composite cathode. The hollow carbon sphere was prepared from the pyrolysis of the homogenous mixture of the mono-dispersed spherical silica and Fe-phthalocyanine powder in elevated temperature. The composite cathode was manufactured by infiltrating sulfur melt into the inner side of the graphitic wall. The electrochemical cycling shows a capacity of 425 mAh g−1 at 3 C current rate which is more than five times larger than that for the sulfur/carbon black nano-composite prepared by simple ball milling.
CSIT: channel state and idle time predictor using a neural network for cognitive LTE-Advanced network
Authors: Shahid Adnan , Aslam Saleem , Kim Hyung Seok , Lee Kyung-Geun
Published: August 2013

Cognitive radio (CR) is a novel methodology that facilitates unlicensed users to share a licensed spectrum without interfering with licensed users. This intriguing approach is exploited in the Long Term Evolution-Advanced (LTE-A) network for performance improvement. Although LTE-A is the foremost mobile communication standard, future underutilization of the spectrum needs to be addressed. Therefore, dynamic spectrum access is explored in this study. The performance of CR in LTE-A can significantly be enhanced by employing predictive modeling. The neural network-based channel state and idle time (CSIT) predictor is proposed in this article as a learning scheme for CR in LTE-A. This predictive-based learning is helpful in two ways: sensing only those channels that are predicted to be idle and selecting the channels for CR transmission that have the largest predicted idle time. The performance gains by exploiting CSIT prediction in CR LTE-A network are evaluated in terms of spectrum utilization, sensing energy, channel switching rate, packet loss ratio, and average instantaneous throughput. The results illustrate that significant performance is achieved by employing CSIT prediction in LTE-A network.
Viral protein R of human immunodeficiency virus type-1 induces retrotransposition of long interspersed element-1
Authors: Iijima Kenta , Okudaira Noriyuki , Tamura Masato , Doi Akihiro , Saito Yoshikazu , Shimura Mari , Goto Motohito , Matsunaga Akihiro , Kawamura Yuki I , Otsubo Takeshi , Dohi Taeko , Hoshino Shigeki , Kano Shigeyuki , Hagiwara Shotaro , Tanuma Junko , Gatanaga Hiroyuki , Baba Masanori , Iguchi Taku , Yanagita Motoko , Oka Shinichi , Okamura Tadashi , Ishizaka Yukihito
Published: August 2013

Background

Viral protein R (Vpr), a protein of human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1) with various biological functions, was shown to be present in the blood of HIV-1-positive patients. However, it remained unclear whether circulating Vpr in patients’ blood is biologically active. Here, we examined the activity of blood Vpr using an assay system by which retrotransposition of long interspersed element-1 (L1-RTP) was detected. We also investigated thein vivoeffects of recombinant Vpr (rVpr) by administrating it to transgenic mice harboring human L1 as a transgene (hL1-Tg mice). Based on our data, we discuss the involvement of blood Vpr in the clinical symptoms of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Results

We first discovered that rVpr was active in induction of L1-RTP. Biochemical analyses revealed that rVpr-induced L1-RTP depended on the aryl hydrocarbon receptor, mitogen-activated protein kinases, and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein β. By using a sensitive L1-RTP assay system, we showed that 6 of the 15 blood samples from HIV-1 patients examined were positive for induction of L1-RTP. Of note, the L1-RTP-inducing activity was blocked by a monoclonal antibody specific for Vpr. Moreover, L1-RTP was reproducibly induced in various organs, including the kidney, when rVpr was administered to hL1-Tg mice.

Conclusions

Blood Vpr is biologically active, suggesting that its monitoring is worthwhile for clarification of the roles of Vpr in the pathogenesis of AIDS. This is the first report to demonstrate a soluble factor in patients’ blood active for L1-RTP activity, and implies the involvement of L1-RTP in the development of human diseases.
Serum peptidome patterns of hepatocellular carcinoma based on magnetic bead separation and mass spectrometry analysis
Authors: Ying Xia , Han Su-xia , Wang Jun-lan , Zhou Xia , Jin Gui-hua , Jin Long , Wang Hao , Wu Lei , Zhang Jianying , Zhu Qing
Published: August 2013

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers in the world,and the identification of biomarkers for the early detection is a relevant target. The purpose of the study is to discover specific low molecular weight (LMW) serum peptidome biomarkers and establish a diagnostic pattern for HCC.

Methods

We undertook this pilot study using a combined application of magnetic beads with Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) technique and ClinPro Tools v2.2 to detect 32 patients with HCC, 16 patients with chronic hepatitis (CH), 16 patients with liver cirrhosis (LC) and 16 healthy volunteers.

Results

The results showed 49, 33 and 37 differential peptide peaks respectively appeared in HCC, LC and CH groups. A Supervised Neural Network (SNN) algorithm was used to set up the classification model. Eleven of the identified peaks at m/z 5247.62, 7637.05, 1450.87, 4054.21, 1073.37, 3883.64, 5064.37, 4644.96, 5805.51, 1866.47 and 6579.6 were used to construct the peptides patterns. According to the model, we could clearly distinguish between HCC patients and healthy controls as well as between LC or CH patients and healthy controls.

Conclusions

The study demonstrated that a combined application of magnetic beads with MALDI-TOF MB technique was suitable for identification of potential serum biomarkers for HCC and it is a promising way to establish a diagnostic pattern.

Virtual slides

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/1503629821958720.
The effect of the time interval between coronary angiography and on-pump cardiac surgery on risk of postoperative acute kidney injury: a meta-analysis
Authors: Hu Yijie , Li Zhiping , Chen Jianming , Shen Cheng , Song Yi , Zhong Qianjin
Published: August 2013

Background

Reports of the association between the time interval from coronary angiography (CAG) to cardiac surgery and risk of postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) are controversial. We attempted to examine this association by conducting a meta-analysis.

Methods

We searched the Pubmed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science databases, and the Cochrane Library from January 1966 to March 2013. A meta-analysis of studies reporting data for 1-day and 3-day time intervals between CAG and cardiac surgery was conducted after evaluation of heterogeneity and publication bias. Study-specific estimates were combined with inverse variance-weighted averages of logarithmic odds ratios (ORs) in fixed-effects models.

Results

From 8 studies involving 11542 persons, the pooled OR of AKI associated with an interval of 1 day or less between CAG and surgery was 1.21 (95% confidence interval (CI), 1.04 to 1.39) relative to an interval of more than 1 day. From 4 studies involving 5420 persons in the cardiopulmonary-bypass subgroup, the pooled OR of AKI associated with an interval of 3 days or less between CAG and surgery was 1.25 (95% CI, 1.07 to 1.43) relative to an interval of more than 3 days. The adjusted OR of the study in the cardiopulmonary bypass/ deep hypothermic circulatory arrest subgroup was 0.35 (95% CI, 0.17 to 0.73).

Conclusions

A time interval of 1 day or less between CAG and on-pump cardiac surgery was significantly associated with increased risk of AKI. A delay of on-pump cardiac surgery until 24 hours after CAG can potentially decrease postoperative AKI.
The synergistic action of accessory enzymes enhances the hydrolytic potential of a “cellulase mixture” but is highly substrate specific
Authors: Hu Jinguang , Arantes Valdeir , Pribowo Amadeus , Saddler Jack N
Published: August 2013

Background

Currently, the amount of protein/enzyme required to achieve effective cellulose hydrolysis is still too high. One way to reduce the amount of protein/enzyme required is to formulate a more efficient enzyme cocktail by adding so-called accessory enzymes such as xylanase, lytic polysaccharide monooxygenase (AA9, formerly known as GH61), etc., to the cellulase mixture. Previous work has shown the strong synergism that can occur between cellulase and xylanase mixtures during the hydrolysis of steam pretreated corn stover, requiring lower protein loading to achieve effective hydrolysis. However, relatively high loadings of xylanases were required. When family 10 and 11 endo-xylanases and family 5 xyloglucanase were supplemented to a commercial cellulase mixture varying degrees of improved hydrolysis over a range of pretreated, lignocellulosic substrates were observed.

Results

The potential synergistic interactions between cellulase monocomponents and hemicellulases from family 10 and 11 endo-xylanases (GH10 EX and GH11 EX) and family 5 xyloglucanase (GH5 XG), during hydrolysis of various steam pretreated lignocellulosic substrates, were assessed. It was apparent that the hydrolytic activity of cellulase monocomponents was enhanced by the addition of accessory enzymes although the “boosting” effect was highly substrate specific. The GH10 EX and GH5 XG both exhibited broad substrate specificity and showed strong synergistic interaction with the cellulases when added individually. The GH10 EX was more effective on steam pretreated agriculture residues and hardwood substrates whereas GH5 XG addition was more effective on softwood substrates. The synergistic interaction between GH10 EX and GH5 XG when added together further enhanced the hydrolytic activity of the cellulase enzymes over a range of pretreated lignocellulosic substrates. GH10 EX addition could also stimulate further cellulose hydrolysis when added to the hydrolysis reactions when the rate of hydrolysis had levelled off.

Conclusions

Endo-xylanases and xyloglucanases interacted synergistically with cellulases to improve the hydrolysis of a range of pretreated lignocellulosic substrates. However, the extent of improved hydrolysis was highly substrate dependent. It appears that those accessory enzymes, such as GH10 EX and GH5 XG, with broader substrate specificities promoted the greatest improvements in the hydrolytic performance of the cellulase mixture on all of the pretreated biomass substrates.
Trypanosoma livingstonei: a new species from African bats supports the bat seeding hypothesis for the Trypanosoma cruzi clade
Authors: Lima Luciana , Espinosa-Álvarez Oneida , Hamilton Patrick B , Neves Luis , Takata Carmen SA , Campaner Marta , Attias Márcia , de Souza Wanderley , Camargo Erney P , Teixeira Marta MG
Published: August 2013

Background

Bat trypanosomes have been implicated in the evolutionary history of the T. cruzi clade, which comprises species from a wide geographic and host range in South America, Africa and Europe, including bat-restricted species and the generalist agents of human American trypanosomosis T. cruzi and T. rangeli.

Methods

Trypanosomes from bats (Rhinolophus landeri and Hipposideros caffer) captured in Mozambique, southeast Africa, were isolated by hemoculture. Barcoding was carried out through the V7V8 region of Small Subunit (SSU) rRNA and Fluorescent Fragment Length barcoding (FFLB). Phylogenetic inferences were based on SSU rRNA, glyceraldehyde phosphate dehydrogenase (gGAPDH) and Spliced Leader (SL) genes. Morphological characterization included light, scanning and transmission electron microscopy.

Results

New trypanosomes from bats clustered together forming a clade basal to a larger assemblage called the T. cruzi clade. Barcoding, phylogenetic analyses and genetic distances based on SSU rRNA and gGAPDH supported these trypanosomes as a new species, which we named Trypanosoma livingstonei n. sp. The large and highly polymorphic SL gene repeats of this species showed a copy of the 5S ribosomal RNA into the intergenic region. Unique morphological (large and broad blood trypomastigotes compatible to species of the subgenus Megatrypanum and cultures showing highly pleomorphic epimastigotes and long and slender trypomastigotes) and ultrastructural (cytostome and reservosomes) features and growth behaviour (when co-cultivated with HeLa cells at 37°C differentiated into trypomastigotes resembling the blood forms and do not invaded the cells) complemented the description of this species.

Conclusion

Phylogenetic inferences supported the hypothesis that Trypanosoma livingstonei n. sp. diverged from a common ancestral bat trypanosome that evolved exclusively in Chiroptera or switched at independent opportunities to mammals of several orders forming the clade T. cruzi, hence, providing further support for the bat seeding hypothesis to explain the origin of T. cruzi and T. rangeli.
Length of dsRNA (poly I:C) drives distinct innate immune responses, depending on the cell type
Authors: Mian M Firoz , Ahmed Amna N , Rad Mehrnaz , Babaian Artem , Bowdish Dawn , Ashkar Ali A
Published: August 2013

Poly I:C, a synthetic dsRNA analogue, has been used extensively for decades to study innate responses in vivo and in different cell types. We have found substantial variability while using poly I:C from different sources. In this study we found that poly I:C from 2 commercial sources induced sharply opposite responses in myeloid and fibroblasts, depending on the length of the poly I:C. Although short poly I:C (∼1–1.5 kb) induced greater amounts of TNF-α, IL-8, and IFN-β and a stronger antiviral response in myeloid cells, it was a poor inducer in fibroblasts. By contrast, long poly I:C (>5 kb) preferentially elicited higher cytokine and antiviral responses in fibroblasts and showed diminished responses in myeloid cells. Poly I:C activated NF-κB and STAT-1 signaling in a length- and cell-type–dependent fashion. Mechanistically, short poly I:C was better internalized in the myeloid cells and long poly I:C in the fibroblasts. Finally, long poly I:C required SR-A, whereas short poly I:C required RIG-I and Raftlin. We provide evidence that the length of dsRNA drives distinct innate responses in different cell lineages. These findings may augment in selecting the appropriate poly I:C type to design cell-type–specific potent adjuvants for vaccines against infectious diseases or cancers.
High glucose enhances HIV entry into T cells through upregulation of CXCR4
Authors: Lan Xiqian , Cheng Kang , Chandel Nirupama , Lederman Rivka , Jhaveri Aakash , Husain Mohammad , Malhotra Ashwani , Singhal Pravin C
Published: August 2013

It is well known that patients with HIV are prone to diabetes mellitus because of the side effects of HARRT. However, whether high glucose affects the HIV infection of T cells is not clear. Recent studies have shown that upregulation of GLUT-1 renders T cells susceptible to HIV infection. We hypothesized that hyperglycemia has the potential to increase HIV infection by enhancing its entry into immune cells. The effect of high glucose on HIV entry into T cells (Jurkat cells and PBMCs) and the mechanisms involved were investigated. High glucose significantly enhanced HIV entry, which was associated with increased T-cell expression of CXCR4. However, T cells with silenced HIF-1α displayed attenuated expression of CXCR4, whereas T cells with silenced CXCR4 showed decreased HIV entry in a high-glucose milieu. On the one hand, high glucose stimulated T-cell ROS generation, and H2O2 at low concentrations enhanced the entry of HIV into T cells. On the other hand, inhibition of ROS not only attenuated high-glucose–mediated T-cell expression of CXCR4 and HIF-1α but also mitigated T-cell HIV entry in a high-glucose milieu. In our study, high glucose enhanced HIV entry into T cells by increasing expression of CXCR4 and HIF-1α.
Nucleotide receptor P2RX7 stimulation enhances LPS-induced interferon-β production in murine macrophages
Authors: Gavala M L , Liu Y-P , Lenertz L Y , Zeng L , Blanchette J B , Guadarrama A G , Denlinger L C , Bertics P J , Smith J A
Published: August 2013

Stimulation of P2RX7 with extracellular ATP potentiates numerous LPS-induced proinflammatory events, including cytokine induction in macrophages, but the molecular mechanisms underlying this process are not well defined. Although P2RX7 ligation has been proposed to activate several transcription factors, many of the LPS-induced mediators affected by P2RX7 activation are not induced by P2RX7 agonists alone, suggesting a complementary role for P2RX7 in transcriptional regulation. Type I IFN production, whose expression is tightly controlled by multiple transcription factors that form an enhanceosome, is critical for resistance against LPS-containing bacteria. The effect of purinergic receptor signaling on LPS-dependent type I IFN is unknown and would be of great relevance to a diverse array of inflammatory conditions. The present study demonstrates that stimulation of macrophages with P2RX7 agonists substantially enhances LPS-induced IFN-β expression, and this enhancement is ablated in macrophages that do not express functional P2RX7 or when the MAPK MEK1/2 pathways are inhibited. Potentiation of LPS-induced IFN-β expression following P2RX7 stimulation is likely transcriptionally regulated, as this enhancement is observed at the IFN-β promoter level. Furthermore, P2RX7 stimulation is able to increase the phosphorylation and subsequent IFN-β promoter occupancy of IRF-3, a transcription factor that is critical for IFN-β transcription by TLR agonists. This newly discovered role for P2RX7 in IFN regulation may have implications in antimicrobial defense, which has been linked to P2RX7 activation in other studies.
President's Page
Authors: Annan Peter
Published: August 2013

Working on a number of recent initiatives of the Board of Directors caused me to reflect on the SEG of the future. SEG has been my professional home for more than 40 years. While I belong to a number of organizations, SEG has always provided me with the member benefits that I value—a high level of solid applied science and a great community of people with similar shared values. I suspect that I am like many members whose expectations have largely been met and believe that SEG will continue into the future with little effort. The past eight months as a member of the Board have given me a unique in-depth view of SEG. My opinion now is that the membership cannot be complacent and must progressively seek change for SEG to remain relevant.
Sections/Associated Societies Focus
Authors: Selfe Gavin
Published: August 2013

The South African Geophysical Association (SAGA) was originally founded in 1977 to foster and encourage the development of geophysics in South Africa, but has now come to represent the broader Southern African geophysical community as well. SAGA has approximately 350 members and constantly strives to attract new geophysics student members and members from closely affiliated professions throughout Africa.
SEAM Update
Authors: Fehler Mike
Published: August 2013

The SEAM Phase I RPSEA project has now completed all simulations. Quality control has been completed on all the resulting data. The final distributions of data have been made to SEAM participants and soon will be available to the public. The simulations that have been completed on the SEAM Phase I deepwater subsalt model have been described in previous articles in The Leading Edge (TLE) and a table summarizing the characteristics of the acquisitions was provided in the May 2012 TLE. Here, we provide a brief overview of the simulations.