bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Context parsing (not only) of the object-file-format description language
Authors: Křoustek Jakub , Kolář Dusan
Published: September 2013

The very first step of each tool such as linker, disassembler, or debugger is
parsing of an input executable or object file. These files are stored in one
of the existing object file formats (OFF). Retargetable tools are not limited
to any particular target platform and they have to deal with handling of
several OFFs. Handling of these formats is similar to parsing of computer
languages - both of them have a predefined structure and a list of allowed
constructions. However, OFF constructions are heavily mutually interconnected
and they create context-sensitive units. In present, there is no generic
system, which can be used for OFF description and its effective parsing. In
this paper, we propose a formal language that can be used for OFF
description. Furthermore, we present a design of a context parser of this
language that is based on the formal models. The major advance of this
solution is an ability to describe context-sensitive properties on the level
of the language itself. This concept is planned to be used in the existing
retargetable decompiler developed within the Lissom project. In this project,
the language and its parser will be used for an object file parsing and its
automatic conversion into the internal uniform file format. It is important
to say that the concept of this parser can be utilized within other
programming languages.
Comparative analysis of the chosen properties of filtrating type protective masks
Authors: Rajic Dusan , Kamberovic Zeljko , Karkalic Radovan , Vitorovic-Todorovic Maja , Ivankovic Negovan , Bauk Sonja , Jovanovic Dalibor
Published: September 2013

The results of comparative experimental testing of different filtrating type
masks are presented in this study. Some of the most important functional
properties have been tested on available models of Italian, French, British,
Canadian, Swiss, American, and three models of Serbian military protective
masks (M3 of the latest generation, as well as M2, and M2FV models of the
previous generation). Using of the standardized testing methods, mask models
have been tested on protection factor, dynamic resistance of the exhaust
valve and its static permeability, the overall inhalation resistance of
protective masks, field of view and optical properties. Based on experimental
results obtained, it can be concluded that the Serbian mask M3 is on
approximately same quality level as tested foreign masks, and above Serbian
protective masks of the previous generation marked M2F and M2FV.
A study of the low-lying singlet and triplet electronic states of chlorophyll A and B
Authors: Etinski Mihajlo , Petkovic Milena , Ristic Miroslav
Published: September 2013

Chlorophylls have been extensively investigated both experimentally and
theoretically owing to the fact that they are essential for photosynthesis.
We have studied two forms of chlorophyll, chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b, by
means of density functional theory. Optimization of S0, S1 and T1 states was
performed with the B3-LYP functional. The computed fluorescence lifetimes
show good agreement with the available experimental data. The electronic
adiabatic energies of S1 and T1 states are 2.09/2.12 and 1.19/1.29 eV for
chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b respectively. We discussed the implications
of this results on the triplet formation. Also, the calculated vertical
ionization potentials shows good agreement with the experimental results.
The impact of anabolic androgenic steroids abuse and type of training on left ventricular remodeling and function in competitive athletes
Authors: Ilic Ivan , Djordjevic Vitomir , Stankovic Ivan , Vlahovic-Stipac Alja , Putnikovic Biljana , Babic Rade , Neskovic Aleksandar
Published: September 2013

Background/Aim. Long-term intensive training is associated with distinctive
cardiac adaptations which are known as athlete?s heart. The aim of this study
was to determine whether the use of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) could
affect echocardiographic parameters of left ventricular (LV) morphology and
function in elite strength and endurance athletes. Methods. A total of 20
elite strength athletes (10 AAS users and 10 non-users) were compared to 12
steroid-free endurance athletes. All the subjects underwent comprehensive
standard echocardiography and tissue Doppler imaging. Results. After being
indexed for body surface area, both left atrium (LA) and LV end-diastolic
diameter (LVEDD) were significantly higher in the endurance than strength
athletes, regardless of AAS use (p < 0.05, for both). A significant
correlation was found between LA diameter and LVEDD in the steroid-free
endurance athletes, showing that 75% of LA size variability depends on
variability of LVEDD (p < 0.001). No significant differences in ejection
fraction and cardiac output were observed among the groups, although mildly
reduced LV ejection fraction was seen only in the AAS users. The AAS-using
strength athletes had higher A-peak velocity when compared to steroidfree
athletes, regardless of training type (p < 0.05 for both). Both AAS-using and
AAS-free strength athletes had lower e? peak velocity and higher E/e? ratio
than endurance athletes (p < 0.05, for all). Conclusions. There is no
evidence that LV ejection fraction in elite athletes is altered by either
type of training or AAS misuse. Long-term endurance training is associated
with preferable effects on LV diastolic function compared to strength
training, particularly when the latter is combined with AAS abuse.
Do Stock Prices Influence Analysts' Earnings Forecasts?
Authors: Miller Jeffrey S. , Sedor Lisa M.
Published: September 2013

This study uses an experiment with professional financial analysts to examine whether stock prices influence analysts' earnings forecasts. The findings indicate that analysts' revised forecasts made in response to a management earnings forecast differ depending on the level of uncertainty communicated by management's guidance and the stock price reaction to it. Lower (higher) stock price leads to lower (higher) analysts' forecasts when uncertainty about future earnings is high, but not when uncertainty about future earnings is low. Overall, the evidence suggests that the documented association between prior security returns and analysts' earnings forecasts is due, at least in part, to the influence of stock price on analysts' earnings forecasts.

Data Availability: Contact the authors.
Six Minute Walk Test as a Monitoring tool in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease on Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Authors: Prakash Vignan Kumar Gali , Gogineni Sujath , Kumar Rajesh , Shaik Mahaboob V
Published: September 2013

Background and Aims- The six minute walk test is widely used as an outcome measure in pulmonary rehabilitation programs. The objective of this study is to report the magnitude of change in the six minute walk test with test repetition in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease on pulmonary rehabilitation program. Methods: A prospective study of 51 patients with moderate to very severe COPD was carried out. Clinical examination, spirometry, six minute walk distance were done. All were advised regular follow up visits at three, six and twelve months. Results: Four (8%) very severe cases completed all visits and one in those showed improvement in Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second by 6% and six minute walk distance by 71 metres. Seven (31.37%) severe cases completed all visits; showed improvement in Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second by 2.5%; the distance walked was a mean 381.5 metres and this was 2.5 % improvement over base line walking distance. Six (11%) moderately severe cases completed the study; the mean distance walked at the end of the study was 451 metres, which is an improvement of 53% and the mean change in Forced expiratory volume in 1 second was <2%. Totally, the mean of modified Burden of Lung disease Dyspnoea scale was 1.7 (baseline) and 4 (after the test). Conclusions: These findings support the recommendation of practice six minute walk test at baseline assessment in order to provide an accurate measure of the effects of rehabilitation on six minute walk distance.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jaim.v2i2.8774 Journal of Advances in Internal Medicine 2013;02(02):35-41.
Host Plant Specific Control of 2,4-Diacetylphloroglucinol Production in the Rhizosphere
Authors: Haichar Feth , Fochesato Sylvain , Achouak Wafa
Published: September 2013

To shed light on phytobeneficial bacterial gene expression in situ, we investigated the expression of phlD gene involved in 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol production. For that purpose, stable isotope probing (SIP) of DNA and mRNA approaches were used. Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings were grown under 13CO2 for 27 days, and the presence and expression of phlD gene was determined in the rhizosphere soil and on the roots of A. thaliana. Results showed that phlD was present and expressed by bacteria inhabiting rhizosphere soil and deriving nutrients from the breakdown of organic matter and from root exudates, whereas phlD gene expression seemed to be repressed on roots. These data were validated in vitro by inoculating four plant species by the phytobeneficial bacterium Pseudomonas brassicacearum. phlD gene expression was highly activated by root exudates of wheat and that of Medicago truncatula and to a lesser extent by that of Brassica napus while it was completely suppressed by root exudates of A. thaliana. Overall, these results lead us to the conclusion that the signals to down regulate phl gene expression may derive from A. thaliana root exudates.
Isolation, NMR Spectral Analysis and Hydrolysis Studies of a Hepta Pyranosyl Diterpene Glycoside from Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni
Authors: Chaturvedula Venkata , Chen Steven , Yu Oliver , Mao Guohong
Published: September 2013

From the commercial extract of the leaves of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni, a minor steviol glycoside, 13-[(2-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-3-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-β-D-glucopyranosyl)oxy] ent-kaur-16-en-19-oic acid-[(2-O-(3-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl)-3-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-β-D-glucopyranosyl) ester] (1); also known as rebaudioside O having seven sugar units has been isolated. Its structural characterization has been achieved by the extensive 1D (1H and 13C), and 2D NMR (COSY, HMQC, HMBC) as well as mass spectral data. Further, hydrolysis studies were performed on rebaudioside O using acid and enzymatic methods to identify aglycone and sugar residues in its structure as well as their configurations.
Potential for Cell-Mediated Immune Responses in Mouse Models of Pelizaeus-Merzbacher Disease
Authors: Southwood Cherie , Fykkolodziej Bozena , Dachet Fabien , Gow Alexander
Published: September 2013

Although activation of the innate and adaptive arms of the immune system are undoubtedly involved in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, it is unclear whether immune system activation is a primary or secondary event. Increasingly, published studies link primary metabolic stress to secondary inflammatory responses inside and outside of the nervous system. In this study, we show that the metabolic stress pathway known as the unfolded protein response (UPR) leads to secondary activation of the immune system. First, we observe innate immune system activation in autopsy specimens from Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease (PMD) patients and mouse models stemming from PLP1 gene mutations. Second, missense mutations in mildly- and severely-affected Plp1-mutant mice exhibit immune-associated expression profiles with greater disease severity causing an increasingly proinflammatory environment. Third, and unexpectedly, we find little evidence for dysregulated expression of major antioxidant pathways, suggesting that the unfolded protein and oxidative stress responses are separable. Together, these data show that UPR activation can precede innate and/or adaptive immune system activation and that neuroinflammation can be titrated by metabolic stress in oligodendrocytes. Whether or not such activation leads to autoimmune disease in humans is unclear, but the case report of steroid-mitigated symptoms in a PMD patient initially diagnosed with multiple sclerosis lends support.
The Fractional Differential Polynomial Neural Network for Approximation of Functions
Authors: Ibrahim Rabha
Published: September 2013

In this work, we introduce a generalization of the differential polynomial neural network utilizing fractional calculus. Fractional calculus is taken in the sense of the Caputo differential operator. It approximates a multi-parametric function with particular polynomials characterizing its functional output as a generalization of input patterns. This method can be employed on data to describe modelling of complex systems. Furthermore, the total information is calculated by using the fractional Poisson process.
Wood Quality and Growth Characterization across Intra- and Inter-Specific Hybrid Aspen Clones
Authors: Hart James , De Araujo Francis , Thomas Barb , Mansfield Shawn
Published: September 2013

Trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) is one of the most abundant poplar species in North America; it is native, displays substantial breadth in distribution inhabiting several geographical and climatic ecoregions, is notable for its rapid growth, and is ecologically and economically important. As the demand for raw material continues to increase rapidly, there is a pressing need to improve both tree quality and growth rates via breeding efforts. Hybridization is considered one of the most promising options to simultaneously accelerate these tree characteristics, as it takes advantage of heterosis. Two aspen species showing particular promise for hybridization with trembling aspen are European aspen (P. tremula) and Chinese aspen (P. davidiana) because their native climates are similar to that of P. tremuloides and are also very easy to hybridize. In 2003, aspen clones were planted in Athabasca, Alberta from the following species crosses: open pollinated (OP) P. tremuloides (NN), OP P. davidiana (CC), P. tremula × P. tremula (EE), P. tremula × P. tremuloides (EN), and P. tremuloides × P. davidiana (CN). In November 2010, growth measurements and core samples were taken from seven-year field grown clones. Comparisons of the mean growth and cell wall traits were made between crosses using generalized linear model least squares means tests for stem volume, fiber length, fiber width, coarseness, wood density, microfibril angle, total cell wall carbohydrate and lignin content, and lignin composition. The results clearly indicated that the inter-specific crosses offer a means to breed for more desirable wood characteristics than the intra-specific Populus spp. crosses.
Correction: Zhou, F.; Wang, Y. Characteristics of Antibiotic Resistance of Airborne Staphylococcus Isolated from Metro Stations. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2013, 10, 2412-2426.
Authors: Zhou Feng , Wang Yuyan
Published: September 2013

The authors wish to add the following amendments and corrections to their paper published in IJERPH [1].
The COX-2 Selective Blocker Etodolac Inhibits TNFα-Induced Apoptosis in Isolated Rabbit Articular Chondrocytes
Authors: Kumagai Kousuke , Kubo Mitsuhiko , Imai Shinji , Toyoda Futoshi , Maeda Tsutomu , Okumura Noriaki , Matsuura Hiroshi , Matsusue Yoshitaka
Published: September 2013

Chondrocyte apoptosis contributes to the disruption of cartilage integrity in osteoarthritis (OA). Recently, we reported that activation of volume-sensitive Cl− current (ICl,vol) mediates cell shrinkage, triggering apoptosis in rabbit articular chondrocytes. A cyclooxygenase (COX) blocker is frequently used for the treatment of OA. In the present study, we examined in vitro effects of selective blockers of COX on the TNFα-induced activation of ICl,vol in rabbit chondrocytes using the patch-clamp technique. Exposure of isolated chondrocytes to TNFα resulted in an obvious increase in membrane Cl− conductance. The TNFα-evoked Cl− current exhibited electrophysiological and pharmacological properties similar to those of ICl,vol. Pretreatment of cells with selective COX-2 blocker etodolac markedly inhibited ICl,vol activation by TNFα as well as subsequent apoptotic events such as apoptotic cell volume decrease (AVD) and elevation of caspase-3/7 activity. In contrast, a COX-1 blocker had no effect on the decrease in cell volume or the increase in caspase-3/7 activity induced by TNFα. Thus, the COX-2-selective blocker had an inhibitory effect on TNFα-induced apoptotic events, which suggests that this drug would have efficacy for the treatment of OA.
Carcinogenesis of Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma: Precursor Lesions
Authors: Gnoni Antonio , Licchetta Antonella , Scarpa Aldo , Azzariti Amalia , Brunetti Anna , Simone Gianni , Nardulli Patrizia , Santini Daniele , Aieta Michele , Delcuratolo Sabina , Silvestris Nicola
Published: September 2013

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma displays a variety of molecular changes that evolve exponentially with time and lead cancer cells not only to survive, but also to invade the surrounding tissues and metastasise to distant sites. These changes include: genetic alterations in oncogenes and cancer suppressor genes; changes in the cell cycle and pathways leading to apoptosis; and also changes in epithelial to mesenchymal transition. The most common alterations involve the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene, the HER2 gene, and the K-ras gene. In particular, the loss of function of tumor-suppressor genes has been documented in this tumor, especially in CDKN2a, p53, DPC4 and BRCA2 genes. However, other molecular events involved in pancreatic adenocarcinoma pathogenesis contribute to its development and maintenance, specifically epigenetic events. In fact, key tumor suppressors that are well established to play a role in pancreatic adenocarcinoma may be altered through hypermethylation, and oncogenes can be upregulated secondary to permissive histone modifications. Indeed, factors involved in tumor invasiveness can be aberrantly expressed through dysregulated microRNAs. This review summarizes current knowledge of pancreatic carcinogenesis from its initiation within a normal cell until the time that it has disseminated to distant organs. In this scenario, highlighting these molecular alterations could provide new clinical tools for early diagnosis and new effective therapies for this malignancy.
Generation of an ICF Syndrome Model by Efficient Genome Editing of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Using the CRISPR System
Authors: Horii Takuro , Tamura Daiki , Morita Sumiyo , Kimura Mika , Hatada Izuho
Published: September 2013

Genome manipulation of human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells is essential to achieve their full potential as tools for regenerative medicine. To date, however, gene targeting in human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) has proven to be extremely difficult. Recently, an efficient genome manipulation technology using the RNA-guided DNase Cas9, the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) system, has been developed. Here we report the efficient generation of an iPS cell model for immunodeficiency, centromeric region instability, facial anomalies syndrome (ICF) syndrome using the CRISPR system. We obtained iPS cells with mutations in both alleles of DNA methyltransferase 3B (DNMT3B) in 63% of transfected clones. Our data suggest that the CRISPR system is highly efficient and useful for genome engineering of human iPS cells.
Achyranthes bidentata Polypeptides Reduces Oxidative Stress and Exerts Protective Effects against Myocardial Ischemic/Reperfusion Injury in Rats
Authors: Tie Ru , Ji Lele , Nan Ying , Wang Wenqing , Liang Xiangyan , Tian Fei , Xing Wenjuan , Zhu Miaozhang , Li Rong , Zhang Haifeng
Published: September 2013

Achyranthes bidentata, a Chinese medicinal herb, is reported to be neuroprotective. However, its role in cardioprotection remains largely unknown. Our present study aimed to investigate the effects of Achyranthes bidentata polypeptides (ABPP) preconditioning on myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (MI/R) injury and to test the possible mechanisms. Rats were treated with ABPP (10 mg/kg/d, i.p.) or saline once daily for one week. Afterward, all the animals were subjected to 30 min of myocardial ischemia followed by 4 h of reperfusion. ABPP preconditioning for one week significantly improved cardiac function following MI/R. Meanwhile, ABPP reduced infarct size, plasma creatine kinase (CK)/lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities and myocardial apoptosis at the end of reperfusion in rat hearts. Moreover, ABPP preconditioning significantly inhibited superoxide generation, gp91phox expression, malonaldialdehyde formation and enhanced superoxide dismutase activity in I/R hearts. Furthermore, ABPP treatment inhibited PTEN expression and increased Akt phosphorylation in I/R rat heart. PI3K inhibitor wortmannin blocked Akt activation, and abolished ABPP-stimulated anti-oxidant effect and cardioprotection. Our study demonstrated for the first time that ABPP reduces oxidative stress and exerts cardioprotection against MI/R injury in rats. Inhibition of PTEN and activation of Akt may contribute to the anti-oxidant capacity and cardioprotection of ABPP.
Interplay between Cartilage and Subchondral Bone Contributing to Pathogenesis of Osteoarthritis
Authors: Sharma Ashish , Jagga Supriya , Lee Sang-Soo , Nam Ju-Suk
Published: September 2013

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common debilitating joint disorder, affecting large sections of the population with significant disability and impaired quality of life. During OA, functional units of joints comprising cartilage and subchondral bone undergo uncontrolled catabolic and anabolic remodeling processes to adapt to local biochemical and biological signals. Changes in cartilage and subchondral bone are not merely secondary manifestations of OA but are active components of the disease, contributing to its severity. Increased vascularization and formation of microcracks in joints during OA have suggested the facilitation of molecules from cartilage to bone and vice versa. Observations from recent studies support the view that both cartilage and subchondral bone can communicate with each other through regulation of signaling pathways for joint homeostasis under pathological conditions. In this review we have tried to summarize the current knowledge on the major signaling pathways that could control the cartilage-bone biochemical unit in joints and participate in intercellular communication between cartilage and subchondral bone during the process of OA. An understanding of molecular communication that regulates the functional behavior of chondrocytes and osteoblasts in both physiological and pathological conditions may lead to development of more effective strategies for treating OA patients.
Cytokines, Chaperones and Neuroinflammatory Responses in Heroin-Related Death: What Can We Learn from Different Patterns of Cellular Expression?
Authors: Neri Margherita , Panata Laura , Bacci Mauro , Fiore Carmela , Riezzo Irene , Turillazzi Emanuela , Fineschi Vittorio
Published: September 2013

Heroin (3,6-diacetylmorphine) has various effects on the central nervous system with several neuropathological alterations including hypoxic-ischemic brain damage from respiratory depressing effects and neuroinflammatory response. Both of these mechanisms induce the release of cytokines, chemokines and other inflammatory mediators by the activation of many cell types such as leucocytes and endothelial and glial cells, especially microglia, the predominant immunocompetent cell type within the central nervous system. The aim of this study is to clarify the correlation between intravenous heroin administration in heroin related death and the neuroinflammatory response. We selected 45 cases among autopsies executed for heroin-related death (358 total cases); immunohistochemical studies and Western blotting analyses were used to investigate the expression of brain markers such as tumor necrosis factor-α, oxygen-regulated protein 150, (interleukins) IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-15, cyclooxygenase-2, heat shock protein 70, and CD68 (MAC387). Findings demonstrated that morphine induces inflammatory response and cytokine release. In particular, oxygen-regulated protein 150, cyclooxygenase-2, heat shock protein 70, IL-6 and IL-15 cytokines were over-expressed with different patterns of cellular expression.
There is Something about Marrying… The Case of Human Rights vs. Migration Regimes using the Example of Austria
Authors: Messinger Irene
Published: September 2013

States pursue various juridical strategies to prevent ‘marriages of convenience’ seen as undermining tightening migration regimes. This article examines how Austrian Alien Law constitutes entering into such a marriage as a criminal offense and looks at the legal proceedings in district courts in Vienna where most cases of alleged ‘marriages of convenience’ are being dealt with. It also studies the work of the Viennese branch of alien police investigating into this offense. These practices are often in conflict with Article 8 and 12 of the European Convention of Human Rights, granting the right to respect for private and family life and the right to marry.
Preparation and Characterization of Cu and Ni on Alumina Supports and Their Use in the Synthesis of Low-Temperature Metal-Phthalocyanine Using a Parallel-Plate Reactor
Authors: Sánchez-De la Torre Fernando , De la Rosa Javier , Kharisov Boris , Lucio-Ortiz Carlos
Published: September 2013

Ni- and Cu/alumina powders were prepared and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electronic microscope (SEM), and N2 physisorption isotherms were also determined. The Ni/Al2O3 sample reveled agglomerated (1 μm) of nanoparticles of Ni (30–80 nm) however, NiO particles were also identified, probably for the low temperature during the H2 reduction treatment (350 °C), the Cu/Al2O3 sample presented agglomerates (1–1.5 μm) of nanoparticles (70–150 nm), but only of pure copper. Both surface morphologies were different, but resulted in mesoporous material, with a higher specificity for the Ni sample. The surfaces were used in a new proposal for producing copper and nickel phthalocyanines using a parallel-plate reactor. Phthalonitrile was used and metallic particles were deposited on alumina in ethanol solution with CH3ONa at low temperatures; ≤60 °C. The mass-transfer was evaluated in reaction testing with a recent three-resistance model. The kinetics were studied with a Langmuir-Hinshelwood model. The activation energy and Thiele modulus revealed a slow surface reaction. The nickel sample was the most active, influenced by the NiO morphology and phthalonitrile adsorption.
Characterisation of Crevice and Pit Solution Chemistries Using Capillary Electrophoresis with Contactless Conductivity Detector
Authors: Nie Mengyan , Wharton Julian , Cranny Andy , Harris Nick , Wood Robert , Stokes Keith
Published: September 2013

The ability to predict structural degradation in-service is often limited by a lack of understanding of the evolving chemical species occurring within a range of different microenvironments associated with corrosion sites. Capillary electrophoresis (CE) is capable of analysing nanolitre solution volumes with widely disparate concentrations of ionic species, thereby producing accurate and reliable results for the analysis of the chemical compositions found within microenvironment corrosion solutions, such as those found at crevice and pit corrosion sites. In this study, CE with contactless conductivity detection (CCD) has been used to characterize pitting and crevice corrosion solution chemistries for the first time. By using the capillary electrophoresis with contactless conductivity detection (CE-CCD) system, direct and simultaneous detection of seven metal cations (Cu2+, Ni2+, Fe3+, Fe2+, Cr3+, Mn2+, and Al3+) and chloride anions was achieved with a buffer solution of 10 mM 2,6-pyridinedicarboxylic acid and 0.5 mM cetyltrimethylammonium hydroxide at pH 4 using a pre-column complexation method. The detection limits obtained for the metal cations and chloride anions were 100 and 10 ppb, respectively. The CE-CCD methodology has been demonstrated to be a versatile technique capable of speciation and quantifying the ionic species generated within artificial pit (a pencil electrode) and crevice corrosion geometries for carbon steels and nickel-aluminium bronze, thus allowing the evolution of the solution chemistry to be assessed with time and the identification of the key corrosion analyte targets for structural health monitoring.
Fabrication of Well-Aligned ZnO Nanorods Using a Composite Seed Layer of ZnO Nanoparticles and Chitosan Polymer
Authors: Khun Kimleang , Ibupoto Zafar , AlSalhi Mohamad , Atif Muhammad , Ansari Anees , Willander Magnus
Published: September 2013

In this study, by taking the advantage of both inorganic ZnO nanoparticles and the organic material chitosan as a composite seed layer, we have fabricated well-aligned ZnO nanorods on a gold-coated glass substrate using the hydrothermal growth method. The ZnO nanoparticles were characterized by the Raman spectroscopic techniques, which showed the nanocrystalline phase of the ZnO nanoparticles. Different composites of ZnO nanoparticles and chitosan were prepared and used as a seed layer for the fabrication of well-aligned ZnO nanorods. Field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and infrared reflection absorption spectroscopic techniques were utilized for the structural characterization of the ZnO nanoparticles/chitosan seed layer-coated ZnO nanorods on a gold-coated glass substrate. This study has shown that the ZnO nanorods are well-aligned, uniform, and dense, exhibit the wurtzite hexagonal structure, and are perpendicularly oriented to the substrate. Moreover, the ZnO nanorods are only composed of Zn and O atoms. An optical study was also carried out for the ZnO nanoparticles/chitosan seed layer-coated ZnO nanorods, and the obtained results have shown that the fabricated ZnO nanorods exhibit good crystal quality. This study has provided a cheap fabrication method for the controlled morphology and good alignment of ZnO nanorods, which is of high demand for enhancing the working performance of optoelectronic devices.
Functional Genomics of Novel Secondary Metabolites from Diverse Cyanobacteria Using Untargeted Metabolomics
Authors: Baran Richard , Ivanova Natalia , Jose Nick , Garcia-Pichel Ferran , Kyrpides Nikos , Gugger Muriel , Northen Trent
Published: September 2013

Mass spectrometry-based metabolomics has become a powerful tool for the detection of metabolites in complex biological systems and for the identification of novel metabolites. We previously identified a number of unexpected metabolites in the cyanobacterium Synechococcus sp. PCC 7002, such as histidine betaine, its derivatives and several unusual oligosaccharides. To test for the presence of these compounds and to assess the diversity of small polar metabolites in other cyanobacteria, we profiled cell extracts of nine strains representing much of the morphological and evolutionary diversification of this phylum. Spectral features in raw metabolite profiles obtained by normal phase liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (MS) were manually curated so that chemical formulae of metabolites could be assigned. For putative identification, retention times and MS/MS spectra were cross-referenced with those of standards or available sprectral library records. Overall, we detected 264 distinct metabolites. These included indeed different betaines, oligosaccharides as well as additional unidentified metabolites with chemical formulae not present in databases of metabolism. Some of these metabolites were detected only in a single strain, but some were present in more than one. Genomic interrogation of the strains revealed that generally, presence of a given metabolite corresponded well with the presence of its biosynthetic genes, if known. Our results show the potential of combining metabolite profiling and genomics for the identification of novel biosynthetic genes.
Synthesis of Marine α-Methoxylated Fatty Acid Analogs that Effectively Inhibit the Topoisomerase IB from Leishmania donovani with a Mechanism Different from that of Camptothecin
Authors: Carballeira Néstor , Montano Nashbly , Alvarez-Velilla Raquel , Prada Christopher , Reguera Rosa , Balaña-Fouce Rafael
Published: September 2013

Sponges biosynthesize α-methoxylated fatty acids with unusual biophysical and biological properties and in some cases they display enhanced anticancer activities. However, the antiprotozoal properties of the α-methoxylated fatty acids have been less studied. In this work, we describe the total synthesis of (5Z,9Z)-(±)-2-methoxy-5, 9-eicosadienoic acid (1) and its acetylenic analog (±)-2-methoxy-5,9-eicosadiynoic acid (2), and report that they inhibit (EC50 values between 31 and 22 µM) the Leishmania donovani DNA topoisomerase IB enzyme (LdTopIB). The inhibition of LdTopIB (EC50 = 53 µM) by the acid (±)-2-methoxy-6-icosynoic acid (12) was studied as well. The potency of LdTopIB inhibition followed the trend 2 > 1 > 12, indicating that the effectiveness of inhibition depends on the degree of unsaturation. All of the studied α-methoxylated fatty acids failed to inhibit the human topoisomerase IB enzyme (hTopIB) at 100 µM. However, the α-methoxylated fatty acids were capable of inhibiting an active but truncated LdTopIB with which camptothecin (CPT) cannot interact suggesting that the methoxylated fatty acids inhibit LdTopIB with a mechanism different from that of CPT. The diunsaturated fatty acids displayed low cytotoxicity towards Leishmania infantum promastigotes (EC50 values between 260 and 240 µM), but 12 displayed a better cytotoxicity towards Leishmania donovani promastigotes (EC50 = 100 µM) and a better therapeutic index.
Microcystin-LR and Cylindrospermopsin Induced Alterations in Chromatin Organization of Plant Cells
Authors: Máthé Csaba , M-Hamvas Márta , Vasas Gábor
Published: September 2013

Cyanobacteria produce metabolites with diverse bioactivities, structures and pharmacological properties. The effects of microcystins (MCYs), a family of peptide type protein-phosphatase inhibitors and cylindrospermopsin (CYN), an alkaloid type of protein synthesis blocker will be discussed in this review. We are focusing mainly on cyanotoxin-induced changes of chromatin organization and their possible cellular mechanisms. The particularities of plant cells explain the importance of such studies. Preprophase bands (PPBs) are premitotic cytoskeletal structures important in the determination of plant cell division plane. Phragmoplasts are cytoskeletal structures involved in plant cytokinesis. Both cyanotoxins induce the formation of multipolar spindles and disrupted phragmoplasts, leading to abnormal sister chromatid segregation during mitosis. Thus, MCY and CYN are probably inducing alterations of chromosome number. MCY induces programmed cell death: chromatin condensation, nucleus fragmentation, necrosis, alterations of nuclease and protease enzyme activities and patterns. The above effects may be related to elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) and/or disfunctioning of microtubule associated proteins. Specific effects: MCY-LR induces histone H3 hyperphosphorylation leading to incomplete chromatid segregation and the formation of micronuclei. CYN induces the formation of split or double PPB directly related to protein synthesis inhibition. Cyanotoxins are powerful tools in the study of plant cell organization.
The Red Seaweed Gracilaria gracilis as a Multi Products Source
Authors: Francavilla Matteo , Franchi Massimo , Monteleone Massimo , Caroppo Carmela
Published: September 2013

In recent years seaweeds have increasingly attracted interest in the search for new drugs and have been shown to be a primary source of bioactive natural compounds and biomaterials. In the present investigation, the biochemical composition of the red seaweed Gracilaria gracilis, collected seasonally in the Lesina Lagoon (Southern Adriatic Sea, Lesina, Italy), was assayed by means of advanced analytical techniques, such as gas-chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry and spectrophotometric tests. In particular, analysis of lipids, fatty acids, sterols, proteins, phycobiliproteins and carbohydrates as well as phenolic content, antioxidant and radical scavenging activity were performed. In winter extracts of G. gracilis, a high content of R-phycoerythrin together with other valuable products such as arachidonic acid (PUFA ω-6), proteins and carbohydrates was observed. High antioxidant and radical scavenging activities were also detected in summer extracts of the seaweed together with a high content of total phenols. In conclusion, this study points out the possibility of using Gracilaria gracilis as a multi products source for biotechnological, nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications even although more investigations are required for separating, purifying and characterizing these bioactive compounds.
Identification of New Natural DNA G-Quadruplex Binders Selected by a Structure-Based Virtual Screening Approach
Authors: Artese Anna , Costa Giosuè , Ortuso Francesco , Parrotta Lucia , Alcaro Stefano
Published: September 2013

The G-quadruplex DNA structures are mainly present at the terminal portion of telomeres and can be stabilized by ligands able to recognize them in a specific manner. The recognition process is usually related to the inhibition of the enzyme telomerase indirectly involved and over-expressed in a high percentage of human tumors. There are several ligands, characterized by different chemical structures, already reported in the literature for their ability to bind and stabilize the G-quadruplex structures. Using the structural and biological information available on these structures; we performed a high throughput in silico screening of commercially natural compounds databases by means of a structure-based approach followed by docking experiments against the human telomeric sequence d[AG3(T2AG3)3]. We identified 12 best hits characterized by different chemical scaffolds and conformational and physicochemical properties. All of them were associated to an improved theoretical binding affinity with respect to that of known selective G-binders. Among these hits there is a chalcone derivative; structurally very similar to the polyphenol butein; known to remarkably inhibit the telomerase activity.
Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Iridoids and Verbascoside Isolated from Castilleja tenuiflora
Authors: Carrillo-Ocampo Danae , Bazaldúa-Gómez Sugeyla , Bonilla-Barbosa Jaime , Aburto-Amar Rola , Rodríguez-López Verónica
Published: September 2013

Castilleja tenuiflora (Orobanchaceae) has been used in Mexican traditional medicine as a treatment for cough, dysentery, anxiety, nausea and vomiting as well as hepatic and gastrointestinal diseases. The ethanolic extract of the aerial parts of Castilleja tenuiflora was separated by silica gel column chromatography. The fractions were evaluated using the induced edema acetate 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol (TPA) anti-inflammatory activity model. The most active fraction was subjected to medium-pressure liquid chromatography (MPLC) with UV detection at 206 and 240 nm. The following iridoids were isolated: geniposidic acid, aucubin, bartioside, 8-epi-loganin, mussaenoside, and the phenylpropanoid verbascoside. The most active iridoid was geniposidic acid, which was more active than the control (indomethacin), and the least active iridoid was mussaenoside. 8-epi-Loganin, and mussaenoside have not been previously reported to be anti-inflammatory compounds. The results of these investigations confirm the potential of Mexican plants for the production of bioactive compounds and validate the ethnomedical use of Castilleja tenuiflora-like anti-inflammatory plants.
Effect of Black Grape Juice against Heart Damage from Acute Gamma TBI in Rats
Authors: De Freitas Robson , Boligon Aline , Rovani Bruno , Piana Mariana , De Brum Thiele , Da Silva Jesus Roberta , Rother Fagner , Alves Nelson , Teixeira da Rocha João , Athayde Margareth , Barrio Juan , De Andrade Edson , De Freitas Bauerman Liliane
Published: September 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential positive effect of black grape juice (BGJ) on lipid peroxidation considering Total Body Irradiation (TBI) in Wistar rats. As a potential feasible means of evaluation in situ, blood serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels were evaluated as a marker for heart damage from acute radiation syndrome (ARS). Twenty rats were divided into four groups, two of them being irradiated by gamma-rays from a Co-60 source. Animals were treated by gavage with 2 mL per day of BGJ or placebo for one week before and 4 days after 6 Gy whole body gamma-irradiation, when they were euthanasiated. LDH on serum and lipid peroxidation on heart tissue were evaluated. High concentration of metabolites from lipid peroxidation in heart, and high LDH level on serum were found only in gamma-irradiated group given placebo, mainly at the first 24 h after radiation. Phytochemical analysis of BGJ was performed by determining total phenolics, flavonoids, and tannins followed by a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC/DAD) analysis, which showed resveratrol as the major constituent. Results suggest that BGJ is a good protective candidate compound against heart damage from ARS and its effects suggest its use as a radiomodifier.
Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis of Andrographis paniculata by Rapid Resolution Liquid Chromatography/Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Song Yong-Xi , Liu Shi-Ping , Jin Zhao , Qin Jian-Fei , Jiang Zhi-Yuan
Published: September 2013

A rapid resolution liquid chromatography/time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (RRLC-TOF/MS) method was developed for qualitative and quantitative analysis of the major chemical constituents in Andrographis paniculata. Fifteen compounds, including flavonoids and diterpenoid lactones, were unambiguously or tentatively identified in 10 min by comparing their retention times and accurate masses with standards or literature data. The characteristic fragmentation patterns of flavonoids and diterpenoid lactones were summarized, and the structures of the unknown compounds were predicted. Andrographolide, dehydroandrographolide and neoandrographolide were further quantified as marker substances. It was found that the calibration curves for all analytes showed good linearity (R2 > 0.9995) within the test ranges. The overall limits of detection (LODs) and limits of quantification (LOQs) were 0.02 μg/mL to 0.06 μg/mL and 0.06 μg/mL to 0.2 μg/mL, respectively. The relative standard deviations (RSDs) for intra- and inter-day precisions were below 3.3% and 4.2%, respectively. The mean recovery rates ranged from 96.7% to 104.5% with the relative standard deviations (RSDs) less than 2.72%. It is concluded that RRLC-TOF/MS is powerful and practical in qualitative and quantitative analysis of complex plant samples due to time savings, sensitivity, precision, accuracy and lowering solvent consumption.
In Vitro Anti-Candida Activity of Certain New 3-(1H-Imidazol-1-yl)propan-1-one Oxime Esters
Authors: Attia Mohamed , Zakaria Azza , Almutairi Maha , Ghoneim Soraya
Published: September 2013

Anti-Candida activities of certain new oximes 4a–d and their respective aromatic esters 5a–l are reported. The tested compounds 4a–d and 5a–l exhibited better anti-Candida profiles than fluconazole. Compound 5j, namely (E)-3-(1H-imidazol-1-yl)-1-phenylpropan-1-one O-4-chlorobenzoyl oxime emerged as the most active congener, with a MIC value of 0.0054 µmol/mL being more potent than both fluconazole (MIC > 1.6325 µmol/mL) and miconazole (MIC value = 0.0188 µmol/mL) as a new anti-Candida albicans agent.
Investigation of Effect of Nutritional Drink on Chemotherapy-Induced Mucosal Injury and Tumor Growth in an Established Animal Model
Authors: Bateman Emma , Bowen Joanne , Stringer Andrea , Mayo Bronwen , Plews Erin , Wignall Anthony , Greenberg Norman , Schiffrin Eduardo , Keefe Dorothy
Published: September 2013

Chemotherapy-induced mucositis represents a significant burden to quality of life and healthcare costs, and may be improved through enhanced nutritional status. We first determined the safety of two nutritional drinks (plus placebo), and then potential gut protection in tumor-bearing rats in a model of methotrexate-induced mucositis. In study 1, animals were fed one of two test diets (or placebo or control chow pellets) for a total of 60 days and were monitored daily. All diets were found to be safe to administer. In study 2, after seven days of receiving diets, a Dark Agouti Mammary Adenocarcinoma (DAMA) was transplanted subcutaneously. Ten days after starting diets, animals had 2 mg/kg intramuscular methotrexate administered on two consecutive days; after this time, all animals were given soaked chow. Animals were monitored daily for changes in bodyweight, tumor burden and general health. Animals were killed 10, 12 and 16 days after initially starting diets, and tissues were collected at necropsy. In study 1, animals receiving diets had gained 0.8% and 10.8% of their starting bodyweight after 60 days, placebo animals 4.4%, and animals fed on standard chow had gained 15.1%. In study 2, there was no significant influence of test diet on bodyweight, organ weight, tumor burden or biochemical parameters. Only animals treated with MTX exhibited diarrhea, although animals receiving Diet A and Diet C showed a non-significant increase in incidence of diarrhea. Administration of these nutritional drinks did not improve symptoms of mucositis.
Molecular Link between Vitamin D and Cancer Prevention
Authors: Moukayed Meis , Grant William
Published: September 2013

The metabolite of vitamin D, 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (also known as calcitriol), is a biologically active molecule required to maintain the physiological functions of several target tissues in the human body from conception to adulthood. Its molecular mode of action ranges from immediate nongenomic responses to longer term mechanisms that exert persistent genomic effects. The genomic mechanisms of vitamin D action rely on cross talk between 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 signaling pathways and that of other growth factors or hormones that collectively regulate cell proliferation, differentiation and cell survival. In vitro and in vivo studies demonstrate a role for vitamin D (calcitriol) in modulating cellular growth and development. Vitamin D (calcitriol) acts as an antiproliferative agent in many tissues and significantly slows malignant cellular growth. Moreover, epidemiological studies have suggested that ultraviolet-B exposure can help reduce cancer risk and prevalence, indicating a potential role for vitamin D as a feasible agent to prevent cancer incidence and recurrence. With the preventive potential of this biologically active agent, we suggest that countries where cancer is on the rise—yet where sunlight and, hence, vitamin D may be easily acquired—adopt awareness, education and implementation strategies to increase supplementation with vitamin D in all age groups as a preventive measure to reduce cancer risk and prevalence.