bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CHEMICAL PROFILE AND ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITIES OF TWO EDIBLE MUSHROOMS (Termitomyces robustus and Lentinus squarrosulus)
Authors: Borokini Funmilayo , Lajide Labunmi , Olaleye Tolu , Boligon Aline , Athayde Margareth , Adesina Isaac
Published: April 2016

The methanol extracts of two edible mushrooms; Termitomyces robustus (ewe) and Lentinus squarrosulus (erirokiro) were screened for phytochemicals of medicinal importance and the chemical profile investigated using standard analytical methods with the aim of assessing their health promoting properties. Both mushrooms tested positive to flavonoids, saponin, tannin and terpenoid but negative to steroid, anthraquinone and phlobatannin. The results of proximate compositions in % were; moisture contents (7.22 ± 0.07; 11.03 ± 0.21), crude protein (31.34 ± 0.01; 42.77 ± 0.57), ash (7.07 ± 0.04; 10.45 ± 0.43), crude fibre (4.07 ± 0.18; 9.48 ± 0.04), crude fat (3.71 ± 0.16; 6.76 ± 0.22), carbohydrate by difference (24.90 ±0.11; 41.27 ± 0.19), calorific value in kcal (331.55±3.41; 342.35±3.09), and total dietary fibre (10.21 ± 0.00; 11.68 ± 0.00). The anti-nutrient factors in mg/g were; tannin (3.25 ± 0.80; 7.40 ± 0.14) oxalate (1.53 ± 0.00; 1.71 ± 0.07), and phytate (1.48 ± 0.06; 1.94 ± 0.05). Mineral elements, vitamins, essential and non-essential amino acids in substantial quantities were detected in the mushrooms. The phenolic compounds identified and quantified were gallic acid, catechin,chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, ellagic acid, epicatechin, rutin, isoquercitrin, quercitrin, quercetin and kaempferol.The mushrooms exhibited various antifungi and antimicrobial activities. The two mushrooms possessed good nutritional and chemical qualities and could be sources of many different nutraceuticals.
Life-cycle parameters of Copitarsia uncilata (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on three natural diets
Authors: Castro Marquez Ana Milena , Rodriguez Caicedo Daniel
Published: April 2016

This study describes the life cycle of Copitarsia uncilata Burgos & Leiva (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) under laboratory conditions without photophase and a second experiment with photophase of 12 hours on three natural diets. The life cycle of C. uncilata was significantly shorter for females (76.46 ± 1.01 days, p=0.033) reared on alstroemeria (Alstroemeria sp.) diet without photophase, and for males (79.78 ± 0.36 days, p=0.046) reared on broccoli (Brassica oleracea italica), with photophase. The emergence of the adults was 100% and 73.33% from larvae fed on alstroemeria, 90.9% and 88.88% for individuals fed on broccoli, 86.2% and 50% for those fed on cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis), without and with photophase respectively. The sex ratio (male:female) of individuals reared without photophase, evidenced a higher rate of females on alstroemeria (1:1.3), followed by cauliflower (1:0.6) and broccoli (1:0.5). In the experiment with photophase, the sex ratio was higher on alstroemeria (1:1.5), followed by cauliflower (1:0.9) and broccoli (1:0.6). As a conclusion, the most suitable diet for laboratory mass rearing in terms of life cycle parameters of C. uncilata is broccoli followed by alstroemeria and cauliflower.
Association between FSHR polymorphism with productive and reproductive traits in Antioquia Holstein cattle
Authors: Madrid Gaviria Stephania , López Herrera Albeiro , Echeverri Zuluaga José Julián
Published: April 2016

Because FSH and its receptor play a fundamental role in reproduction, the objective of this research was determining the effect of the A-320T polymorphism in productive and reproductive traits in Antioquia Holstein cows. The PCR-RFLP was used to amplify a segment of 970 bp of the bovine follicle stimulating hormone receptor gene (FSHR) which was digested with the restriction enzyme TaqI. The effect of the FSHR genotypes on productive and reproductive traits was determinate by a Mixed Linear Model and Tukey Test was used to establish significant differences between means for the three genotypes. The effect of allelic substitution was studied through a linear regression model where the genotypes AA, AT and TT were transformed into a quantitative scale of 0, 1 and 2, respectively according to the number of possessed T alleles. In Antioquia Holstein cattle the most common genotype was the AT (0.485) followed by TT (0.417) and AA (0.096) genotypes. Allele frequencies were 0.339 for A and 0.660 for T, respectively. The FSHR genotypes did not exert a significant effect on the principal productive parameters, except for fat percentage (P<0.01) where the TT individuals presented the highest percent. Results showed that T allele seems to improve the solids in milk while A allele improves dairy yield. The reproductive parameters were not affected by this SNP but AT animals showed a higher number of services per conception. Further studies are required to determine whether this SNP may be used as a molecular marker.
The Addition of Dicamba to POST Applications of Quizalofop-p-ethyl or Clethodim Antagonizes Volunteer Glyphosate-Resistant Corn Control in Dicamba-Resistant Soybean
Authors: Underwood Matthew G. , Soltani Nader , Hooker David C. , Robinson Darren E. , Vink Joseph P. , Swanton Clarence J. , Sikkema Peter H.
Published: April 2016

Two studies consisting of six field experiments each were conducted at three locations in southwestern Ontario, Canada, in 2014 and 2015 to evaluate the possible antagonism when dicamba was added to quizalofop-p-ethyl or clethodim for the control of volunteer glyphosate-resistant (GR) corn. At 4 wk after application (WAA), quizalofop-p-ethyl at 24, 30, or 36 g ai ha−1provided 88, 94, and 95% control of volunteer GR corn, respectively. The addition of dicamba at 300 or 600 g ae ha−1to quizalofop-p-ethyl (24 g ha−1) reduced the activity of quizalofop-p-ethyl on volunteer GR corn by 12 and 20%. At 4 WAA, clethodim at 30, 37.5, and 45 g ai ha−1provided 85, 91, and 95% control of volunteer GR corn, respectively. The addition of dicamba at 300 or 600 g ha−1to clethodim (30 g ha−1) resulted in antagonism, causing a reduction in volunteer GR corn by 12 and 11%, respectively. In general, there was greater antagonism when the high rate of dicamba was tank-mixed with the lower rate of the graminicide. There was no antagonistic effect on soybean yield by tank-mixing dicamba with either graminicide at all rates evaluated. Based on these results, volunteer GR corn can be controlled effectively by increasing the rate of the graminicide when tankmixed with dicamba.
Phase I Study of the Prolactin Receptor Antagonist LFA102 in Metastatic Breast and Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Agarwal Neeraj , Machiels Jean-Pascal , Suárez Cristina , Lewis Nancy , Higgins Michaela , Wisinski Kari , Awada Ahmad , Maur Michela , Stein Mark , Hwang Andy , Mosher Rebecca , Wasserman Ernesto , Wu Gang , Zhang Hefei , Zieba Renata , Elmeliegy Mohamed
Published: April 2016

Lessons Learned

Despite evidence for a role for prolactin signaling in breast and prostate tumorigenesis, a prolactin receptor-binding monoclonal antibody has not produced clinical efficacy. Increased serum prolactin levels may be a biomarker for prolactin receptor inhibition. Results from the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics (PD) studies suggest that inappropriately long dosing intervals and insufficient exposure to LFA102 may have resulted in lack of antitumor efficacy. Based on preclinical data, combination therapy of LFA102 with those novel agents targeting hormonal pathways in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer and metastatic breast cancer is promising. Given the PD evidence of prolactin receptor blockade by LFA102, this drug has the potential to be used in conditions such as hyperprolactinemia that are associated with high prolactin levels.

Background.

Prolactin receptor (PRLR) signaling is implicated in breast and prostate cancer. LFA102, a humanized monoclonal antibody (mAb) that binds to and inhibits the PRLR, has exhibited promising preclinical antitumor activity.

Methods.

Patients with PRLR-positive metastatic breast cancer (MBC) or metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) received doses of LFA102 at 3–60 mg/kg intravenously once every 4 weeks. Objectives were to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and/or recommended dose for expansion (RDE) to investigate the safety/tolerability of LFA102 and to assess pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD), and antitumor activity.

Results.

A total of 73 patients were enrolled at 5 dose levels. The MTD was not reached because of lack of dose-limiting toxicities. The RDE was established at 60 mg/kg based on PK and PD analysis and safety data. The most common all-cause adverse events (AEs) were fatigue (44%) and nausea (33%) regardless of relationship. Grade 3/4 AEs reported to be related to LFA102 occurred in 4% of patients. LFA102 exposure increased approximately dose proportionally across the doses tested. Serum prolactin levels increased in response to LFA102 administration, suggesting its potential as a biomarker for PRLR inhibition. No antitumor activity was detected.

Conclusion.

Treatment with LFA102 was safe and well tolerated, but did not show antitumor activity as monotherapy at the doses tested.
A Comparison of Proposed Biosimilar LA-EP2006 and Reference Pegfilgrastim for the Prevention of Neutropenia in Patients With Early-Stage Breast Cancer Receiving Myelosuppressive Adjuvant or Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: Pegfilgrastim Randomized Oncology (Supportive Care) Trial to Evaluate Comparative Treatment (PROTECT-2), a Phase III, Randomized, Double-Blind Trial
Authors: Blackwell Kimberly , Donskih Roman , Jones C. Michael , Nixon Allen , Vidal Maria J. , Nakov Roumen , Singh Pritibha , Schaffar Gregor , Gascón Pere , Harbeck Nadia
Published: April 2016

Background.

Pegfilgrastim is widely used for the prevention of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia. In highly regulated markets, there are currently no approved biosimilars of pegfilgrastim. Pegfilgrastim Randomized Oncology (Supportive Care) Trial to Evaluate Comparative Treatment (PROTECT-2) was a confirmatory efficacy and safety study designed to compare proposed biosimilar LA-EP2006 with reference pegfilgrastim (Neulasta, Amgen) in early-stage breast cancer patients receiving adjuvant or neoadjuvant myelosuppressive chemotherapy.

Methods.

A total of 308 patients were randomized to LA-EP2006 or reference pegfilgrastim. Each patient received TAC (intravenous docetaxel 75 mg/m2, doxorubicin 50 mg/m2, and cyclophosphamide 500 mg/m2) on day 1 of each cycle, for six or more cycles. Pegfilgrastim (LA-EP2006 or reference) was given subcutaneously (6 mg in 0.6 mL) on day 2 of each cycle. The primary endpoint was duration of severe neutropenia (DSN) during cycle 1 (number of consecutive days with an absolute neutrophil count <0.5 × 109/L), with equivalence confirmed if 90% and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were within a 1-day margin.

Results.

Baseline characteristics were well balanced. DSN was equivalent between groups at mean ± SD 1.36 ± 1.13 (LA-EP2006, n = 155) and 1.19 ± 0.98 (reference, n = 153) in cycle 1. With a treatment difference (reference minus LA-EP2006) of −0.16 days (90% CI −0.36 to 0.04; 95% CI −0.40 to 0.08), LA-EP2006 was equivalent to reference pegfilgrastim. Secondary efficacy parameters were similar between groups during cycle 1 and across cycles. Safety profiles were also similar between groups. No neutralizing antibodies against pegfilgrastim, filgrastim, or polyethylene glycol were detected.

Conclusion.

LA-EP2006 and reference pegfilgrastim were therapeutically equivalent and comparable regarding efficacy and safety in the prevention of neutropenia in patients with early-stage breast cancer receiving TAC.
GENETICS AND EPIGENETICS OF AGING AND LONGEVITY
Authors: Moskalev Aleksey Aleksandrovich
Published: April 2016

This review covers the main groups of genes that determine the rate of aging and longevity in model animals and humans. The focus is on genes of insulin/IGF-1, PI3K-, TOR-, MAPK-, NF-kB-, TGF-β-, WNT-signaling pathways, stress resistance genes (chaperones, antioxidant genes, autophagy, proteasomal degradation, DNA repair) and genes of cellular senescence (pRB, p21, p16, p53). The groups of genes that alter their activity during human aging and epigenetic mechanisms of age-related changes are described
GENOTYPIC ANALYSIS OF NODULE BACTERIA NODULATING SOYBEAN IN UKRAINE SOILS
Authors: Krutylo Dmitriy Valeriyevich , Zotov Vasiliy Sergeyevich
Published: April 2016

Background. Distribution of root nodule bacteria of soybean in soils of Ukraine is the result of intensive cultivation of soybeans over the last 20 years. During the observation the structure of soybean rhizobia populations for the first time we have determined the strains which significantly differ in phenotypic properties from typical slow-growing bacteria of B. japonicum species previously described. These strains are characterized by high speed growth and we tentatively called them “stains with intensive growth”. The aim of our work was to investigate the genotypic properties of microsymbionts of soybeans with different rates of growth spreading in soils of Ukraine. Materials and methods. The 16S rRNA gene and intergenic 16S-23S rRNA region of six strains - typical representatives of soybean nodule bacteria with slow- and intensive growth-rates was carried out. The strains were picked up from different Ukrainian soils. Results. Analysis of the 16S rRNA nucleotide sequences showed the 100% similarity of slow-growing strains to B. japonicum USDA 6T and USDA 4 ones. This analysis proved propinquity of strains with intensive growth to the strain B. japonicum USDA 127 (USDA 123 group). Representatives of this group possessed increased saprophytic competence so as the examined strains. With use of restriction analysis of ITS intergenic region soybean rhizobia were divided among two ITS types: 1st ITS type - strains with intensive growth, 2nd ITS type - slow- growing strains. According to results of ITS-region sequencing soybean rhizobia form 3 reliably different clusters: two of which include slow-growing strains (group USDA 6 and USDA 4), and a third include soybean microsymbionts with intensive growth (USDA 123 group). Conclusion. On the basis of phenotypic and genotypic (16S rRNA and 16S-23S rRNA) analysis all of the investigated soybean strains of root nodule bacteria were related to the Bradyrhizobium japonicum species. The division of strains by the structure of the ITS-region into two genotypes corresponds to the division of strains into two physiological groups: the strains of an intense and slow growth.
Cryptic species in plants and their detection by genetic differentiation between populations
Authors: Shneyer Viktoriya Semenovna , Kotseruba Violetta Vladimirovna
Published: April 2016

Many cryptic species were found during last years in animals, fungi, algae by their intraspecious genetic differentiation revealed by PCR-based methods. But they were rarely found yet in plants. In this review, we summarized the information on detection of cryptic species of spore and seed plants by the data on genetic differentiation between populations. Reasons for their rare discovery, the surrounding circumstances, the distinguishing features, and other issues are discussed.
Prospects for the use of multi-component symbiotic systems of the Legumes
Authors: Shtark Oksana Yur’yevna , Zhukov Vladimir Aleksandrovich , Sulima Anton Sergeevich , Singh Reena , Naumkina Tat’yana Sergeevna , Akhtemova Gul’nar Asanovna , Borisov Aleksey Yur’yevich
Published: April 2016

Legume-Rhizobial Symbiosis (LRS), Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (AM) and associations with Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria (PGPB) implement nutritional and defensive functions in plant, improve soil fertility, and thus are appropriate to be used for sustainable crop production and soil restoration. Based on synergism and evolutional commonality of the symbioses, we propose a multi-component plant-microbe system with legume plant as a main component. Advances obtained from simultaneous inoculation of legumes with various beneficial microbes are summarized. Basic principles of legume breeding to improve effectiveness of interaction with a complex of the microbes along with problems and prospects for development of multi-microbial inoculants for legumes (and non-legumes) are stated.
Obtaining of transgenic alfalfa for improved phytoremediation the petroleum contaminated soils
Authors: Stepanova Anna Yurievna , Orlova Ekaterina Vladimirovna , Tereshonok Dmitriy Viktorovich , Dolgikh Yulia Ivanovna
Published: April 2016

Background. The possibility of using transgenic plants and their complexes with microorganisms to clean up soil from oil pollution is a topical area of researches. In our work the transgenic alfalfa plants with a gene rhlA, responsible for the biosynthesis of biosurfactant - ramnolipid, were obtained. Rhamnolipids help to reduce the surface tension of the hydrocarbon oil and its desorbtion from soil particles, thereby facilitating its recycling by microorganism. Material and methods. The protocol for agrobacterium-mediated transformation was optimized, transgenic alfalfa plants with a gene rhlA were obtained and their status was confirmed by molecular analysis. Results. Cultivation of the control and the transgenic alfalfa plants in soil polluted with 4 % oil showed the advantage of plants emitting ramnolipids: recycle oil was 71 % for 56 days and it was 20 % higher compared with the control plants. When used together, the transgenic plants and microorganism Candida maltosa increased the degree of degradation of the oil to 86 %. Conclusion. The results suggest promising application of transgenic plants and the complex “transgenic plants - microorganisms” to increase the efficiency of bioremediation.
Mutagenic potential of some heavy metals
Authors: Reutova Nina Vasilievna
Published: April 2016

Heavy metals are drastically different group from the point of view of its mutagenic properties. The mutagenic potential of eight heavy metals (Ag, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mo, Pb, W) was investigated using plant test-system Crepis capillaris L. Ag and Cr were mutagens at the lowest concentrations (up to 10-8M), Cu and W were not mutagens. Analysis of the results obtained with other plant test-systems was done and good correlations were established. Toxic and mutagenic sequences of these metals were made up.
Planejamento Governamental e Acesso à Informação no Brasil: Lacunas, Complementariedade e Mudança Institucional
Authors: Oliveira Júnior Temístocles Murilo , Jordão Claudia Silva , Castro Júnior Joel Lima Pereira
Published: April 2016

Este trabalho examina e busca explicações para a permanência de eventuais lacunas entre o planejamento governamental e o acesso à informação no Brasil, mais especificamente entre as regras e mecanismos relacionados ao monitoramento e à avaliação (M&A) de programas no plano plurianual (PPA) federal para o quadriênio 2012-2015 e as diretrizes voltadas à promoção da transparência, formalmente instituídas pela lei de acesso à informação (LAI). Confirmada aquela permanência, verificou-se que tais podem ser em alguma medida explicadas pela complementariedade entre as instituições formais relacionadas a estes temas e pelos modos com que se deram os recentes processos de mudança por que estas passaram.
Goat Productivity Kept Under a Group Management System in Yogyakarta
Authors: Baliarti E.
Published: April 2016

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The Effect of Dietary Palm Kernel Cake on Body Fat and Carcass of Barrows
Authors: Kamal M. , Putri T. I.
Published: April 2016

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Effects of B-Agonist _-644,969 on Energy Metabolism in Broiler
Authors: (Maksudi) Maksudi
Published: April 2016

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Evaluation on Physiological Responses of Working Bali Cattle
Authors: Yupardhi W. Sayang
Published: April 2016

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Identifikasi Karakteristik Genetik Sapi Peranakan Ongole di Peternakan Rakyat (The Identification of Genetic Characteristic of Ongole Grade Cattle in Smallholder Farmers)
Authors: (Hartati) Hartati , (Sumadi) Sumadi , Hartatik Tety
Published: April 2016

The aim of this research was to identity genetic characteristic of Ongole Grade cattle and to analyse the diversity of Ongole grade cattle in smallholder farmers. This research was conducted at breeding stock in East Java and Central Java
include Tuban, Lamongan and Blora regencies, since June until December 2008. The animal use were PO cattle of 18 months until 24 months of age and cow of 24 months until 36 months of age or have once of calving as many 30 head
from location, were used as sampling for the observation of genetic diversity which was based on quantitative and qualitative characteristic. Whole blood collection was conducted to get the data of polymorphism DNA microsatellite
by using technology of PCR and elektroforesis. Data and information were analysed in descriptive, explanatory and laboratoris. The result showed that Blora subpopulation had genetic distance which was close to Tuban subpopulation
compared to Lamongan. The result of molecular genetic analyses by using microsatellite showed that highest frequency alel was presented by HEL9 locus at Tuban population. Heterozigosity value at 3 subpopulation of PO cattle was very
low, representing an indication of leading to inbreeding cases.

(Key words : Genetic characteristic, PO cattle, Smallholder farmers)
Pengaruh Pejantan dan Pakan terhadap Pertumbuhan Itik Turi sampai Umur delapan Minggu (The Effect of Sires and Diets on the Growth of Turi Duck Until the Age of 8 Weeks)
Authors: Dewanti Ratih , Sidadolog Jafendi Hasoloan Purba , (Zuprizal) Zuprizal
Published: April 2016

The experiment was carried out to observe the effect of sires and diets on the growth traits of Turi duck up to the age of eight weeks. There were five sires and 25 dams which produced 151 offspring used in the experiment. Three diets with equal nutrient balance but different concentration P1: {CP:EM= 1:145,EM 2482 kcal/kg:protein 17%}; P2 {CP:EM= 1:146 EM 2628 kcal/kg:protein 18%}; dan P3 {CP:EM= 1:144 (EM 2774 kcal/kg: protein 19%} were then applied. Phenotypic datasets on body weight, body weight gain, feed consumption and feed conversion parameters were collected. The result showed that sire had no effect on body weight, body weight gain and feed conversions of the offspring. Different diets, on the other hand affected feed consumption (lowest P3:822.37 g/head/weeks). Interactions between sires x age were then found to be significantly affected feed consumption.

(Key words: Sires, Diets, Growth, and Turi duck)
EFEKTIVITAS KEBIJAKAN STRATEGI PENGENDALIAN WABAH FLU BURUNG DI PROPINSI D.I. YOGYAKARTA, INDONESIA
Authors: Romadhoni R. Ahmad , Haryadi F. Trisakti
Published: April 2016

Wabah flu burung (AI) merebak di Indonesia mulai tahun 2004. Departemen Pertanian telah menerbitkan kebijakan mengenai program pengendalian AI. Program tersebut adalah sembilan (9) langkah pengendalian AI, program ini terdiri dari 9 langkah untuk melindungi peternak dari bahaya wabah AI. Tahun 2007, AI masih terjadi dan peternak mengalami kerugian hingga 33 milyar pada bulan Januari hingga April. Tujuan dari penelitian adalah mengetahui implementasi kebijakan strategi pencegahan flu burung dan efektivitas kebijakan dalam rangka mencegah penyebaran flu burung di tingkat peternak. Penelitian dilakukan menggunakan survei pada responden sampel yang diambil secara purposif. Berdasarkan pada analysis maka dapat disimpulkan bahwa: pertama, pelaksanaan kebijakan pengendalian AI ini perlu adanya pembenahan dari pihak-pihak yang terkait. Kedua, program pengendalian ini tidak efektif karena implementasinya hanya mencapai 45,22% dari seluruh langkah yang telah ditetapkan.

(Kata kunci: Flu burung, Pelaksanaan kebijakan, Efektivitas)
PHYSIOLOGICAL STATUS, BLOOD PROFILE AND BODY COMPOSITION OF SHEEP FED WITH CA-SAPONIFIED LEMURU OIL COATED BY HERBS
Authors: Astuti Dewi Apri , Sudarman Asep
Published: April 2016

This study was aimed to evaluate the physiological status, blood profiles and body composition of sheep fed with Ca-saponified lemuru oil coated by herbs. Twenty fat-tailed sheep (av. BW 23±1.2 kg) were used in this experiment by using Completely Randomized Design with five treatments ration and four replications of each. Sheep fed with concentrate containing 3% Ca-saponified lemuru oil and king grass (1:1) ad libitum. Treatments were control diet without herbs (R1); Ca-saponified lemuru oil coated by curcumae domestica (R2); coated by Zingiber officinale Rosc (R3); coated by Eugenia polyantha (R4) and coated by Pluchea indica Less (R5). Data of physiological parameters were measured three times a day, in the morning, at noon and afternoon. Blood samples were collected at the end of the experiment through jugular vein, together with zero sample for Urea Space measurement. The variables observed were physiological data (heart rate, respiration rate, and rectal temperature), blood profiles (erythrocyte, hemoglobin, packed cell volume (PCV), leucocytes) and body composition (water, protein and fat) measured using Urea Space technique. Results of the study showed that sheep fed with Ca-saponified lemuru oil coated by herbs was not significantly different on heart rate, respiration rate and rectal temperature among treatments. Meanwhile, total leucocytes, neutrophil cell, and lymphocytes significantly increased (P<0.05) by the treatment. Body composition percentage (water, protein and fat) were same in all treatments, except the total body fat and energy retained. In conclusion, supplementation of 3% Ca-saponified lemuru oil coated by Curcumae domestica, Zingiber officinale Rosc, Eugenia polyantha and Pluchea indica Less in fat-tailed sheep had no effect on physiological parameters, but improved the leucocyte and neutrophil cells. Total body fat and energy retained lower compared to control treatment.

(Key words: Body composition, Ca-saponified, Herbs, Lemuru oil, Urea space)
Mitochondria and Synaptic Plasticity in the Mature and Aging Nervous System
Authors: Todorova Vyara , Blokland Arjan
Published: April 2016

Synaptic plasticity in the adult brain is believed to represent the cellular
mechanisms of learning and memory. Mitochondria are involved in the regulation
of the complex processes of synaptic plasticity. This paper reviews the current
knowledge on the regulatory roles of mitochondria in the function and plasticity of
synapses and the implications of mitochondrial dysfunctions in synaptic transmission.
First, the importance of mitochondrial distribution and motility for maintenance and
strengthening of dendritic spines, but also for new spines/synapses formation is
presented. Secondly, the major mitochondrial functions as energy supplier and
calcium buffer organelles are considered as possible explanation for their essential
and regulatory roles in neuronal plasticity processes. Thirdly, the effects of synaptic
potentiation on mitochondrial gene expression are discussed. And finally, the relation between age-related
alterations in synaptic plasticity and mitochondrial dysfunctions is considered. It appears that memory
loss and neurodegeneration during aging are related to mitochondrial (dys)function. Although, it is clear
that mitochondria are essential for synaptic plasticity, further studies are indicated to scrutinize the
intracellular and molecular processes that regulate the functions of mitochondria in synaptic plasticity.
Association of Reduced eGFR and Albuminuria with Serious Fall Injuries among Older Adults
Authors: Bowling C. Barrett , Bromfield Samantha G. , Colantonio Lisandro D. , Gutiérrez Orlando M. , Shimbo Daichi , Reynolds Kristi , Wright Nicole C. , Curtis Jeffrey R. , Judd Suzanne E. , Franch Harold , Warnock David G. , McClellan William , Muntner Paul
Published: April 2016

Background and objectives

Falls are common and associated with adverse outcomes in patients on dialysis. Limited data are available in earlier stages of CKD.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

We analyzed data from 8744 Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke Study participants ≥65 years old with Medicare fee for service coverage. Serious fall injuries were defined as a fall-related fracture, brain injury, or joint dislocation using Medicare claims. Hazard ratios (HRs) for serious fall injuries were calculated by eGFR and albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR). Among 2590 participants with CKD (eGFR<60 ml/min per 1.73 m2 or ACR≥30 mg/g), cumulative mortality after a serious fall injury compared with age-matched controls without a fall injury was calculated.

Results

Overall, 1103 (12.6%) participants had a serious fall injury over 9.9 years of follow-up. The incidence rates per 1000 person-years of serious fall injuries were 21.7 (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 20.3 to 23.2), 26.6 (95% CI, 22.6 to 31.3), and 38.3 (95% CI, 31.2 to 47.0) at eGFR levels ≥60, 45–59, and <45 ml/min per 1.73 m2, respectively, and 21.3 (95% CI, 20.0 to 22.8), 31.7 (95% CI, 27.5 to 36.5), and 42.2 (95% CI, 31.3 to 56.9) at ACR levels <30, 30–299, and ≥300 mg/g, respectively. Multivariable adjusted HRs for serious fall injuries were 0.91 (95% CI, 0.76 to 1.09) and 1.09 (95% CI, 0.86 to 1.37) for eGFR=45–59 and <45 ml/min per 1.73 m2, respectively, versus eGFR≥60 ml/min per 1.73 m2 and 1.31 (95% CI, 1.11 to 1.54) and 1.81 (95% CI, 1.30 to 2.50) for ACR=30–299 and ≥300 mg/g, respectively, versus ACR<30 mg/g. Among participants with CKD, cumulative 1-year mortality rates among patients with a serious fall and age-matched controls were 21.0% and 5.5%, respectively.

Conclusions

Elevated ACR but not lower eGFR was associated with serious fall injuries. Evaluation for fall risk factors and fall prevention strategies should be considered for older adults with elevated ACR.
Association Between Use of Lipid-Lowering Therapy and Cardiovascular Diseases and Death in Individuals With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Hero Christel , Rawshani Araz , Svensson Ann-Marie , Franzén Stefan , Eliasson Björn , Eeg-Olofsson Katarina , Gudbjörnsdottir Soffia
Published: April 2016

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of lipid-lowering therapy (LLT) in primary prevention on cardiovascular disease (CVD) and death in type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We used the Swedish National Diabetes Register (NDR) to perform a propensity score–based study. Propensity scores for treatment with LLT were calculated from 32 baseline clinical and socioeconomic variables. The propensity score was used to estimate the effect of LLT in the overall cohort (by stratification). We estimated risk of acute myocardial infarction, stroke, coronary heart disease, and cardiovascular and all-cause mortality in individuals with and without LLT using Cox regression. A total of 24,230 individuals included in 2006–2008 NDR with type 1 diabetes without a history of CVD were followed until 31 December 2012; 18,843 were untreated and 5,387 treated with LLT (97% statins). The mean follow-up was 6.0 years.

RESULTS

The propensity score allowed balancing of all 32 covariates, with no differences between treated and untreated after accounting for propensity score. Hazard ratios (HRs) for treated versus untreated were as follows: cardiovascular death 0.60 (95% CI 0.50–0.72), all-cause death 0.56 (0.48–0.64), fatal/nonfatal stroke 0.56 (0.46–0.70), fatal/nonfatal acute myocardial infarction 0.78 (0.66–0.92), fatal/nonfatal coronary heart disease 0.85 (0.74–0.97), and fatal/nonfatal CVD 0.77 (0.69–0.87).

CONCLUSIONS

This observational study shows that LLT is associated with 22–44% reduction in the risk of CVD and cardiovascular death among individuals with type 1 diabetes without history of CVD and underlines the importance of primary prevention with LLT to reduce cardiovascular risk in type 1 diabetes.
Backlash Goes Global: Men's Groups, Patriarchal Family Policy, and the False Promise of Gender-Neutral Laws
Authors: Halperin-Kaddari Ruth , Freeman Marsha A.
Published: April 2016

In every country and every culture, the level of equality in the family has a direct impact on all aspects of women's participation in economic, social, cultural, and political life as well as in their exposure to violence. Its significance as a human rights issue is underscored by the level of overt and covert resistance to the pursuit of equality in families in all regions of the world. This article explores the major local and global expressions of patriarchal resistance to equality in the family, all of which share an antipathy to women's human rights: men's rights movements, a backlash phenomenon sited largely in economically advanced countries; the battle to maintain progress on the international policy level, where resistance is sited in United Nations bodies, using women's lives as proxies for political agendas and frequently calling on the language of respect for culture and tradition; and the adoption or retention by many states, North and South, of apparently gender-neutral legislation that in fact results in stalled progress or outright regression from equality norms. It explores the significance of the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and the critical role of the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women in identifying the sites of resistance and maintaining state-specific accountability for the promotion of equality.
Publicly evaluable pseudorandom functions and their applications
Authors: Chen Yu , Zhang Zongyang
Published: April 2016

We put forth the notion of publicly evaluable pseudorandom functions (PEPRFs), which can be viewed as a counterpart of standard pseudorandom functions (PRFs) in the public-key setting. Briefly, PEPRFs are defined over domain X containing a language L associated with a hard relation [Formula: see text], and each secret key [Formula: see text] is associated with a public key [Formula: see text]. For any [Formula: see text], in addition to evaluate [Formula: see text] using [Formula: see text] as standard PRFs, one is also able to evaluate [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text], x and a witness w for [Formula: see text]. We consider two security notions for PEPRFs. The basic one is weak pseudorandomness which stipulates a PEPRF cannot be distinguished from a real random function on uniformly random chosen inputs. The strengthened one is adaptive weak pseudorandomness which requires a PEPRF remains weak pseudorandom even when an adversary is given adaptive access to an evaluation oracle. We conduct a formal study of PEPRFs, focusing on applications, constructions, and extensions.

∙ We show how to construct chosen-plaintext secure (CPA) and chosen-ciphertext secure (CCA) public-key encryption (PKE) schemes from (adaptive) PEPRFs. The construction is simple, black-box, and admits a direct proof of security. We provide evidence that (adaptive) PEPRFs exist by showing constructions from injective trapdoor functions, hash proof systems, extractable hash proof systems, as well as a construction from puncturable PRFs with program obfuscation.

∙ We introduce the notion of publicly sampleable PRFs (PSPRFs), which is a relaxation of PEPRFs, but nonetheless imply PKE. We show (adaptive) PSPRFs are implied by (adaptive) trapdoor relations. This helps us to unify and clarify many PKE schemes from seemingly unrelated general assumptions and paradigms under the notion of PSPRFs.

∙ We explore similar extension on recently emerging constrained PRFs, and introduce the notion of publicly evaluable constrained PRFs, which, as an immediate application, implies attribute-based encryption.

∙ We propose a twist on PEPRFs, which we call publicly evaluable and verifiable functions (PEVFs). Compared to PEPRFs, PEVFs have an additional promising property named public verifiability while the best possible security degrades to unpredictability. We justify the applicability of PEVFs by presenting a simple construction of “hash-and-sign” signatures, both in the random oracle model and the standard model.
Stable Gene Regulatory Network Modeling From Steady-State Data
Authors: Larvie Joy , Sefidmazgi Mohammad , Homaifar Abdollah , Harrison Scott , Karimoddini Ali , Guiseppi-Elie Anthony
Published: April 2016

Gene regulatory networks represent an abstract mapping of gene regulations in living cells. They aim to capture dependencies among molecular entities such as transcription factors, proteins and metabolites. In most applications, the regulatory network structure is unknown, and has to be reverse engineered from experimental data consisting of expression levels of the genes usually measured as messenger RNA concentrations in microarray experiments. Steady-state gene expression data are obtained from measurements of the variations in expression activity following the application of small perturbations to equilibrium states in genetic perturbation experiments. In this paper, the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator-vector autoregressive (LASSO-VAR) originally proposed for the analysis of economic time series data is adapted to include a stability constraint for the recovery of a sparse and stable regulatory network that describes data obtained from noisy perturbation experiments. The approach is applied to real experimental data obtained for the SOS pathway in Escherichia coli and the cell cycle pathway for yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Significant features of this method are the ability to recover networks without inputting prior knowledge of the network topology, and the ability to be efficiently applied to large scale networks due to the convex nature of the method.
AC and Phase Sensing of Nanowires for Biosensing
Authors: Crescentini Marco , Rossi Michele , Ashburn Peter , Lombardini Marta , Sangiorgi Enrico , Morgan Hywel , Tartagni Marco
Published: April 2016

Silicon nanowires are label-free sensors that allow real-time measurements. They are economical and pave the road for point-of-care applications but require complex readout and skilled personnel. We propose a new model and technique for sensing nanowire sensors using alternating currents (AC) to capture both magnitude and phase information from the sensor. This approach combines the advantages of complex impedance spectroscopy with the noise reduction performances of lock-in techniques. Experimental results show how modifications of the sensors with different surface chemistries lead to the same direct-current (DC) response but can be discerned using the AC approach.
Interference Energy Spectrum of the Infinite Square Well
Authors: Waegell Mordecai , Aharonov Yakir , Patti Taylor
Published: April 2016

Certain superposition states of the 1-D infinite square well have transient zeros at locations other than the nodes of the eigenstates that comprise them. It is shown that if an infinite potential barrier is suddenly raised at some or all of these zeros, the well can be split into multiple adjacent infinite square wells without affecting the wavefunction. This effects a change of the energy eigenbasis of the state to a basis that does not commute with the original, and a subsequent measurement of the energy now reveals a completely different spectrum, which we call the interference energy spectrum of the state. This name is appropriate because the same splitting procedure applied at the stationary nodes of any eigenstate does not change the measurable energy of the state. Of particular interest, this procedure can result in measurable energies that are greater than the energy of the highest mode in the original superposition, raising questions about the conservation of energy akin to those that have been raised in the study of superoscillations. An analytic derivation is given for the interference spectrum of a given wavefunction Ψ ( x , t ) with N known zeros located at points s i = ( x i , t i ) . Numerical simulations were used to verify that a barrier can be rapidly raised at a zero of the wavefunction without significantly affecting it. The interpretation of this result with respect to the conservation of energy and the energy-time uncertainty relation is discussed, and the idea of alternate energy eigenbases is fleshed out. The question of whether or not a preferred discrete energy spectrum is an inherent feature of a particle’s quantum state is examined.
Making Mechanization Accessible to Smallholder Farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Sims Brian , Kienzle Josef
Published: April 2016

This paper summarizes the deliberations at a meeting convened by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation held in Beijing in October 2015. Farm power and mechanization are agricultural production inputs that will be essential to raise the labor and land productivity required if Sustainable Development Goals 1 and 2 (ending poverty and hunger) are to be achieved. The smallholder farm sector demand for mechanization needs to be raised to stimulate the product value chain and activate input supply (that is to raise farm productivity, stimulate value addition, and encourage private sector custom hire service provision). The sustainability of mechanization from a natural resource conservation point of view is discussed with reference to conservation agriculture principles. Mechanization appropriate for the smallholder sector covers the range of possible power sources human, draft animal and motorized. The key is to engage all the stakeholders in the supply chain and offer a range of suitable options from which the user can select. Sustainability of mechanization includes financial and social, as well as environmental factors. Local manufacturers should be supported where feasible as they can provide implements and machines adapted to local conditions—and better technical service and replacement part supply. The public sector role in providing access to mechanization should be restricted to promulgating enabling policies, building technical and business management skills and stimulating demand. The lessons to be learnt from Chinese experience in making mechanization available to smallholder farmers include subsidies, strong extension services, infrastructure development and a solid manufacturing sector that prioritizes the smallholder sector. The implications for sub-Saharan Africa appear to be that group ownership and custom hire service provision are the models to follow. Finally, the relevance of an African Center for Sustainable Agricultural Mechanization, on the model of CSAM in Beijing, is considered and recommended.
Antiviral Activity of Graphene–Silver Nanocomposites against Non-Enveloped and Enveloped Viruses
Authors: Chen Yi-Ning , Hsueh Yi-Huang , Hsieh Chien-Te , Tzou Dong-Ying , Chang Pai-Ling
Published: April 2016

The discovery of novel antiviral materials is important because many infectious diseases are caused by viruses. Silver nanoparticles have demonstrated strong antiviral activity, and graphene is a potential antimicrobial material due to its large surface area, high carrier mobility, and biocompatibility. No studies on the antiviral activity of nanomaterials on non-enveloped viruses have been reported. To investigate the antiviral activity of graphene oxide (GO) sheets and GO sheets with silver particles (GO-Ag) against enveloped and non-enveloped viruses, feline coronavirus (FCoV) with an envelope and infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) without an envelope were chosen. The morphology and sizes of GO and GO-Ag were characterized by transmission, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. A virus inhibition assay was used to identify the antiviral activity of GO and GO-Ag. Go-Ag inhibited 25% of infection by FCoV and 23% by IBDV, whereas GO only inhibited 16% of infection by FCoV but showed no antiviral activity against the infection by IBDV. Further application of GO and GO-Ag can be considered for personal protection equipment to decrease the transmission of viruses.
Modulating Composition and Metabolic Activity of the Gut Microbiota in IBD Patients
Authors: Matijašić Mario , Meštrović Tomislav , Perić Mihaela , Čipčić Paljetak Hana , Panek Marina , Vranešić Bender Darija , Ljubas Kelečić Dina , Krznarić Željko , Verbanac Donatella
Published: April 2016

The healthy intestine represents a remarkable interface where sterile host tissues come in contact with gut microbiota, in a balanced state of homeostasis. The imbalance of gut homeostasis is associated with the onset of many severe pathological conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a chronic gastrointestinal disorder increasing in incidence and severely influencing affected individuals. Despite the recent development of next generation sequencing and bioinformatics, the current scientific knowledge of specific triggers and diagnostic markers to improve interventional approaches in IBD is still scarce. In this review we present and discuss currently available and emerging therapeutic options in modulating composition and metabolic activity of gut microbiota in patients affected by IBD. Therapeutic approaches at the microbiota level, such as dietary interventions alone or with probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics, administration of antibiotics, performing fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) and the use of nematodes, all represent a promising opportunities towards establishing and maintaining of well-being as well as improving underlying IBD symptoms.
Phytochemical and Pharmacological Profiles of Three Fagopyrum Buckwheats
Authors: Jing Rui , Li Hua-Qiang , Hu Chang-Ling , Jiang Yi-Ping , Qin Lu-Ping , Zheng Cheng-Jian
Published: April 2016

The genus Fagopyrum (Polygonaceae), currently comprising 15 species of plants, includes three important buckwheat species: Fagopyrum esculentum (F. esculentum) Moench. (common buckwheat), Fagopyrum tataricum (F. tataricum) (L.) Gaertn. (tartary buckwheat) and Fagopyrum dibotrys (F. dibotrys) (D. Don) Hara. (perennial buckwheat), which have been well explored due to their long tradition of both edible and medicinal use. This review aimed to present an up-to-date and comprehensive analysis of the phytochemistry and pharmacology of the three Fagopyrum buckwheats. In addition, the scope for future research was also discussed. All available references included in this paper were compiled from major databases, such as MEDLINE, Pubmed, Scholar, Elsevier, Springer, Wiley and CNKI. A total of 106 compounds isolated from three Fagopyrum buckwheats can be mainly divided into six classes: flavonoids, phenolics, fagopyritols, triterpenoids, steroids and fatty acids. Flavonoids and phenolic compounds were considered to be the major active components. Considerable pharmacological experiments both in vitro and in vivo have validated that Fagopyrum buckwheats possess antitumor, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, anti-diabetic activities, etc. All reported data lead us to conclude that Fagopyrum buckwheats have convincing medicinal potential. However, further research is needed to explore its bioactive constituents, the relationship to their structural activities and the molecular mechanisms of action.
Hepatoprotective Limonoids from Andiroba (Carapa guianensis)
Authors: Ninomiya Kiyofumi , Miyazawa Seiya , Ozeki Kaiten , Matsuo Natsuko , Muraoka Osamu , Kikuchi Takashi , Yamada Takeshi , Tanaka Reiko , Morikawa Toshio
Published: April 2016

Three gedunin-type limonoids, gedunin (1), 6α-acetoxygedunin (2), and 7-deacetoxy-7-oxogedunin (3), which were isolated from the seed and flower oils of andiroba (Carapa guianensis Aublet, Meliaceae), exhibited hepatoprotective effects at doses of 25 mg/kg, p.o. against d-galactosamine (d-GalN)/lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced liver injury in mice. To characterize the mechanisms of action of 1–3 and clarify the structural requirements for their hepatoprotective effects, 17 related limonoids (1–17) isolated from the seed and/or flower oils of C. guianensis were examined in in vitro studies assessing their effects on (i) d-GalN-induced cytotoxicity in primary cultured mouse hepatocytes, (ii) LPS-induced nitric oxide (NO) production in mouse peritoneal macrophages, and (iii) tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)-induced cytotoxicity in L929 cells. The mechanisms of action of 1–3 are likely to involve the inhibition of LPS-induced macrophage activation and reduced sensitivity of hepatocytes to TNF-α; however, these compounds did not decrease the cytotoxicity caused by d-GalN. In addition, the structural requirements of limonoids (1–17) for inhibition of LPS-induced NO production in mouse peritoneal macrophages and TNF-α-induced cytotoxicity in L929 cells were evaluated.