bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MicroRNA as Biomarkers and Diagnostics
Authors: Wang Jin , Chen Jinyun , Sen Subrata
Published: May 2015

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of small non‐coding RNAs that are involved in regulating a range of developmental and physiological processes; their dysregulation has been associated with development of diseases including cancer. Circulating miRNAs and exosomal miRNAs have also been proposed as being useful in diagnostics as biomarkers for diseases and different types of cancer. In this review, miRNAs are discussed as biomarkers for cancer and other diseases, including viral infections, nervous system disorders, cardiovascular disorders, and diabetes. We summarize some of the clinical evidence for the use of miRNAs as biomarkers in diagnostics and provide some general perspectives on their use in clinical situations. The analytical challenges in using miRNAs in cancer and disease diagnostics are evaluated and discussed. Validation of specific miRNA signatures as biomarkers is a critical milestone in diagnostics. J. Cell. Physiol. 230: 25–30, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
In vivo quantitative whole‐brain T1 rho MRI of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Gonyea Jay V. , Watts Richard , Applebee Angela , Andrews Trevor , Hipko Scott , Nickerson Joshua P. , Thornton Lindsay , Filippi Christopher G.
Published: May 2015

Background

To apply quantitative whole‐brain T1‐rho (T1ρ) and T2 imaging to the detection and quantification of brain changes resulting from multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methods

Twenty‐three MS patients with clinically isolated syndrome (10) and relapsing remitting MS (13) phenotypes, compared with 24 age‐matched healthy controls were imaged at 3 Tesla. An axial T1ρ‐weighted three‐dimensional turbo spin echo sequence with a variable flip angle and fluid suppression was used. Spin‐lock times of 0, 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 ms were used. Corresponding T2 maps were also acquired.

Results

Whole brain white matter (WM) T1ρ maps were elevated compared with controls (P = 0.002). WM lesion T1ρ and T2 values were highly correlated (r = 0.83), but T1ρ demonstrated 25% better contrast to noise ratio (P < 0.001). WM lesion T1ρ correlated with disease duration. Gray matter T1ρ was negatively correlated with the Expanded Disability Status Scale, r = −0.45, P = 0.03. Normal appearing gray matter and cortical gray matter lesions were negatively correlated on T1ρ, but not on T2 (rT1ρ = −0.63, pT1ρ = 0.03; rT2 = −0.17, pT2 = 0.6).

Conclusion

T1ρ MRI demonstrates enhanced lesion contrast compared with T2, and in some cases may provide complementary information. T1ρ may provide a useful measure of demyelinating processes in MS. J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2015;42:1623–1630.
Chronic methamphetamine regulates the expression of MicroRNAs and putative target genes in the nucleus accumbens of mice
Authors: Zhu Li , Zhu Jie , Liu Yufeng , Chen Yanjiong , Li Yanlin , Chen Sisi , Li Tao , Dang Yonghui , Chen Teng
Published: May 2015

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are modulators of gene expression that play key regulatory roles in distinct cellular processes. Methamphetamine (METH) induces various aberrant changes in the limbic system by affecting a complex gene regulatory mechanism, yet the involvement of miRNAs in the effects of METH exposure remains unclear. This study identifies METH‐responsive miRNAs and their potential effects in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) of mice. Using miRNA sequencing, we examined the expression of miRNAs in the NAc of saline‐ and METH‐treated mice and identified 45 known miRNAs to be METH responsive. Additionally, we identified two novel miRNA candidates that were METH responsive (novel‐m002C and novel‐m009C). Our target prediction analysis suggested that the known METH‐regulated miRNAs might target genes that are involved in cellular autophagy, cellular metabolism, and immune responses and that the novel METH‐regulated miRNA candidates might target genes that are related to drug addiction. We also matched the predicted targets of METH‐regulated miRNAs with the NAc messenger RNA expression profile, revealing eight putative METH‐regulated target genes (Arc, Capn9, Gbp5, Lefty1, Patl2, Pde4c, Strc, and Vmn1r58). Thus, METH triggers an alteration in NAc miRNA expression, which could contribute to METH‐induced changes in neuron autophagy, metabolism, and immune responses. The differential expression of putative target genes suggests their involvement following exposure to METH. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of Shrub Islands Created by Rhodomyrtus tomentosa (Aiton) Hassk. on the Growth, Chlorophyll Fluorescence, and Chloroplast ultrastructure of Pine Seedlings in Degraded Land of South China
Authors: Yang Long , Chen Yanqiao , Huang Yuhui , Li Yu , Wen Meili , Liu Nan , Wang Jun
Published: May 2015

In degraded land of South China, the shrub Rhodomyrtus tomentosa (Aiton) Hassk. grows in aggregations and creates “shrub islands” with increased soil porosity and soil moisture but reduced soil nutrient content and light penetration. Previous researches indicated that these shrub islands can facilitate establishment of broad‐leaved tree seedlings. Because conifers are commonly used in reforestation projects, we determined whether shrub islands created by R. tomentosa also facilitate coniferous seedlings. Two common conifers, the native Pinus massoniana and the exotic Pinus elliottii, were transplanted on shrub islands and in open spaces (controls) between islands, and their growth, chlorophyll fluorescence, and chloroplast ultrastructure were investigated. Neither of the pine species was facilitated by the shrub islands. P. elliottii grew obviously higher in the open than under the R. tomentosa canopy, while P. massoniana was not facilitated by shrub islands, but it was not hindered either. The reduced growth of P. elliottii on shrub islands was associated with dilation of thylakoids in chloroplasts of mesophyll cells, lowered chlorophyll content, and reduced electron transport rate values. The results of this study indicate that P. elliottii should be transplanted in open spaces, and P.  massoniana can be transplanted in open spaces or on shrub islands as part of restoration efforts, and the restoration technology of shrub island should be carefully used in degraded land of South China according to the species identity. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Immobilization of sulfate waste simulate in polymer–cement composite based on recycled expanded polystyrene foam waste: Evaluation of the final waste form under freeze–thaw treatment
Authors: Bayoumi Talat A. , Tawfik Magda E.
Published: May 2015

A new polymer–cement composite matrix for solidification and stabilizing of low‐ and intermediate level radioactive sulfate waste, containing high concentration of sulfate as sodium salt (113.16 g/L), had been developed at the inorganic applied chemistry unit, radioisotope department, Egyptian atomic energy authority. The proposed composite is based on ordinary Portland cement and expanded polystyrene recycled from foam wastes. The integrity of the reached final waste forms (polymer–cement composite immobilizing sulfate wastes simulate) was evaluated after subjecting to freeze–thaw (FT) treatment. The cycling was performed for the final waste form at the end of 28 days curing period between (−20°C ± 1) and (60°C ± 1) for 180 days. Mass changes, compressive strength, porosity, and bulk density were determined for the solid blocks at the end of definite increasing FT cycles. To evaluate the changes in the internal structure accompanied the FT cycling, Fourier‐transform infrared, X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetry, and scanning electron microscopy tools were used. Based on the data obtained, it could be stated that the proposed polymer–cement composite can withstand the aggressive conditions exist during the disposal process and candidate it can be used adequately for incorporating the sulfate waste concentrate originated from the boiling water reactors. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:637–645, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Perinatal exposure to androgen excess and the effects on the rat uterine estradiol responsiveness
Authors: Guerra Marina T. , Sanabria Marciana , Petrusz Peter , De Grava Kempinas Wilma
Published: May 2015

Androgen exposure during sexual development induces alterations in steroidal target tissues. The objective of this study was to evaluate the uterine responsiveness to estradiol after perinatal androgenization. Pregnant Wistar rats were exposed to corn oil or testosterone propionate at 0.05, 0.1, or 0.2 mg/kg from gestational day 12 until postnatal day 21. Female offspring was challenged with estradiol (E2) after weaning (0.4 mg/kg) and at adulthood (10 or 100 µg/day), when the pituitary response was also evaluated. At adulthood, control and 0.05 mg/kg groups presented a uterine weight increment when exposed to 100 µg/day of E2, 0.1 mg/kg group only responded to 10 µg/day of E2, and the 0.2 mg/kg group showed increased uterine weight at both doses. The pituitary weight was similarly increased after estradiol stimulation in all experimental groups. In conclusion, testosterone propionate exposure induced an abnormal stimulation of uterine tissue growth by estrogen stimulus without affecting pituitary response. More studies are needed to clarify whether these alterations are capable of impairing the reproductive capacity of the female tract. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 31: 1460–1468, 2016.
Review: Morphofunctional and biochemical markers of stress in sea urchin life stages exposed to engineered nanoparticles
Authors: Gambardella Chiara , Ferrando Sara , Gatti Antonietta M. , Cataldi Edoardo , Ramoino Paola , Aluigi Maria Grazia , Faimali Marco , Diaspro Alberto , Falugi Carla
Published: May 2015

We describe the use of different life stages of the Mediterranean sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus for the assessment of the possible risk posed by nanoparticles (NPs) in the coastal water. A first screening for the presence of NPs in sea water may be obtained by checking their presence inside tissues of organisms taken from the wild. The ability of NPs to pass from gut to the coelomic fluid is demonstrated by accumulation in sea urchin coelomocytes; the toxicity on sperms can be measured by embryotoxicity markers after sperm exposure, whereas the transfer through the food chain can be observed by developmental anomalies in larvae fed with microalgae exposed to NPs. The most used spermiotoxicity and embryotoxicity tests are described, as well as the biochemical and histochemical analyses of cholinesterase (ChE) activities, which are used to verify toxicity parameters such as inflammation, neurotoxicity, and interference in cell‐to‐cell communication. Morphological markers of toxicity, in particular skeletal anomalies, are described and classified. In addition, NPs may impair viability of the immune cells of adult specimens. Molecular similarity between echinoderm and human immune cells is shown and discussed. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 31: 1552–1562, 2016.
Interpreting the multi-biomarker disease activity score in the context of tocilizumab treatment for patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Reiss William G. , Devenport Jenny N. , Low Jason M. , Wu George , Sasso Eric H.
Published: May 2015

The multi-biomarker disease activity (MBDA) score measures 12 proteins involved in the pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to assess disease activity (DA). Previous studies demonstrated correlations between MBDA and clinical DA scores with some RA therapies. In this analysis, the relationship between DA and MBDA scores and changes in MBDA component biomarkers were evaluated in tocilizumab (TCZ)-treated patients. Patients from the ACT-RAY study were included in this analysis if they had DA measures and serum collected at pre-specified time points with sufficient serum for MBDA testing at ≥1 visit. Descriptive statistics, associations between outcomes, and percentage agreement between DA categories were calculated. Seventy-eight patients were included and were similar to the ACT-RAY population. Correlations between MBDA score and DAS28-CRP were ρ = 0.50 at baseline and ρ = 0.26 at week 24. Agreement between low/moderate/high categories of MBDA score and DAS28-CRP was observed for 77.1 % of patients at baseline and 23.7 % at week 24. Mean changes from baseline to weeks 4, 12, and 24 were proportionately smaller for MBDA score than DAS28-CRP. Unlike some other MBDA biomarkers, interleukin-6 (IL-6) concentrations increased in most patients during TCZ treatment. Correlations and agreement between MBDA and DAS28-CRP or CDAI scores were lower at week 24 versus baseline. The proportionately smaller magnitude of response observed for MBDA score versus DAS28-CRP may be due to the influence of the increase in IL-6 concentrations on MBDA score. Thus, MBDA scores obtained during TCZ treatment should be interpreted cautiously and in the context of available clinical information.
The importance of reproductive interference in ecology and evolution: from organisms to communities
Authors: Cothran Rickey D.
Published: May 2015

Knowledge of species interactions is vital to understand ecological and evolutionary patterns in nature. Traditional species interactions (e.g., competition, predation, symbiosis) have received a great deal of deserved attention and their general importance in shaping the evolution of populations and structure of communities is unquestioned. Recently, reproductive interference has been receiving attention as an important species interaction. Reproductive interference is defined as interspecific reproductive activities that decrease the fitness of at least one of the species involved in the interaction. Reproductive interference has the potential to affect the evolutionary trajectories of populations and structure of communities. Here, I comment on seven papers that make up this special feature on reproductive interference. Along the way I highlight key discoveries of these studies and areas of research that may contribute to our understanding of the causes and consequences of reproductive interference.
Low Grade Metamorphism in the Lalsot-Bayana Sub-basin of the North Delhi Fold Belt and its Tectonic Implication
Authors: Mehdi Muntazir , Kumar Santosh , Pant Naresh C.
Published: May 2015

From west to east, the North Delhi Fold Belt (NDFB) is composed of the Khetri sub-basin, the Alwar sub-basin and the Lalsot-Bayana sub-basin. The metamorphic history of the easternmost Lalsot-Bayana sub-basin is considerably different from the other two as it has been reported to be nearly unmetamorphosed, while the other two subbasins display medium grade metamorphic assemblages. Textural, mineralogical and geothermometric data obtained for metabasic lithology, indicate metamorphism in the sub-greenschist facies conditions (~300°C temperature). This is corroborated by the development of chemically distinct authigenic phengitic muscovite in metasiltstone. The Alwar and the Khetri sub-basins preserve evidence of ~1000 Ma orogeny signifying closure of the Delhi basin in the form of amphibolites facies metamorphism which is lacking in the Lalsot-Bayana sub-basin. The lithopackage and metamorphism of this sub-basin suggests it to be a pre-Delhi intracratonic rift related volcanosedimentary sequence.
Chalcophile Element Depletion in Lower Deccan Trap Formations and Implications for Cu-Ni-PGE Sulphide Mineralization in the Deccan Traps, India akin to those of Norilsk-Talnakh, Siberian Traps, Russia
Authors: Krishnamurthy P.
Published: May 2015

Chalcophile element depletion in the basalts of Nadezhdinsky Formation, Siberian traps, manifested by the Cu/Zr ratios (< 1) has been recognized as one of the most critical geochemical features in the ore genesis model of the world class Norilsk-Talnakh Ni-Cu-PGE sulphide deposit. Such a feature has been brought to light from the c.3 km thick lava pile of Deccan traps from the Western Ghats. In the lowest Jawhar, Igatpuri and Thakurvadi formations (c. 1.3 km) in the Kalsubai sub-group, where 62 out of the 65 samples have Cu/Zr ratios < 1. Such depletion is also shared by several dykes from the Narmada and Tapti rift zones that are considered to be the source regions for the flows.

Sequential ore genetic processes envisaged for such depletion at Norilsk include, crustal contamination with country rocks, sulphur saturation, sulphide liquid immiscibility and finally enrichment in the tenor of Ni, Cu and PGE in the sulphides. Identification of such enriched zones in magma plumbing systems (chonoliths) and intrusions (dykes and sills) near the source regions within the Deccan traps is a huge challenge for exploration geologists in India.
First Estimate of Plate Motion at Maitri GPS Site, Indian Base Station at Antarctica
Authors: Ghavri Sapna , Catherine Joshi K , Gahalaut Vineet K
Published: May 2015

We analyse GPS data from the Indian permanent GPS station at Maitri for measuring the plate motion at this site. We find that this site moves at a velocity of 4.6 mm/year predominantly towards north, which is consistent with the expected plate motion of Antarctic plate at this site.
Slope Stability Monitoring by Quantification and Behavior of Microseismic Events in an Opencast Coal Mine
Authors: Vinoth S. , Kumar L. Ajay , Kumar E.
Published: May 2015

The application of a routine high resolution microseismic monitoring system installed in an opencast coal mine for monitoring highwall slope failures is discussed. A PC based microseismic network consisting of geophones, data loggers, GPS synchronization and Ethernet antennas for wireless communication is employed to study the impact of induced seismicity on the slope failures in real time. The study aimed to understand the rock mass response to mining induced seismicity from the behavior of seismic events within rock mass. The level of induced seismicity due to underground excavation is determined from the seismic source parameters such as locations, magnitude, and seismic energy. The status of the slope is assessed by the quantification of the microseismic events. The understanding of spatial and temporal distribution of the seismic events within the mining district correlated well with the existing geological structures and the excavation sequence. The application of microseismic system in the opencast mine has not only yielded confident results, but also marked as an effective tool for continuous monitoring of seismicity on the deep opencast slopes for mitigating the seismic risks and hazard management.
Spatial Assessment of Groundwater Over-exploitation in Northwestern Districts of Bangladesh
Authors: Shahid Shamsuddin , Wang Xian-June , Rahman M. Moshiur , Hasan Rashidul , Harun Sobri Bin , Shamsudin Supiah
Published: May 2015

Groundwater demand in northwestern districts of Bangladesh is increasing rapidly with the growth of population and the expansion of irrigated agriculture. Development and management of groundwater resources are essential to supply the growing population with sufficient water for economic development as well as for the sustainable environment of the region. In the present study, groundwater recharge-abstraction balance method has been used for the spatial assessment of groundwater development potential. The abstraction of groundwater is estimated from irrigation and domestic water demands in the study area. The net recharge calculated from groundwater table fluctuation data, whereas the abstraction of groundwater is estimated from irrigation and domestic water demands in the study area. The study shows that out of twenty-six sub-districts, groundwater exploitation has reached to a critical condition in fourteen subdistricts. Development of surface water resources and water conservation are essential to reduce the stress on groundwater exploitation.
The Mechanisms and Geotechnical Characteristics of Slope Failures at a Mining District, Southeast Nigeria
Authors: Igwe Ogbonnaya
Published: May 2015

A procedure encompassing field, laboratory and numerical analyses was employed to re-analyze the mechanism of slope failures at a mining district in south eastern Nigeria. The slopes have been re-evaluated on the basis of new evidence. The study identified 43 landslide events which were mainly shallow, short run-out slides triggered during rainfall. The sand grains were analysed by scanning electron microscope for evidence of microstructures, surface texture and grain crushing. The analysis revealed that the soil particles associated with landslide are somewhat rounded, fairly sorted, and absence of any grain crushing. Shearing tests were carried out at various normal stress and relative density conditions. The specimens with relative density of about 32 % responded to shearing in a strain-softening pattern; and as normal stress and over-consolidation ratio increased, there was no transition from contractive to dilative behaviour. On the contrary, under a constant normal stress (196 kPa) and increasing relative density (from 45.9 % to 75.5 %), the soils exhibited dilative behaviours. It is shown that increase in relative density, normal stress or over-consolidation ratio did not affect the brittleness index significantly. A numerical method based on strength reduction technique simulated a landslide which structure, run-out distance and distribution area were consistent with field observations. It is deduced that the slopes are unstable under intense rainfall conditions due to the effects of soil characteristics, excess pore water generation and the alternating swelling and shrinkage of the claystone layers interbedded with the sand bodies.
Assessment of Sedimentary Basin effect on Soil Structure in Kerman City Deposits Using Destructuring Coefficient Criterion
Authors: Bazanjani Mohammad Reza Aminizadeh , Lashkaripour Golam Reza , Ghafoori Mohammad , Moghadas Naser Hafezi
Published: May 2015

Destructuring coefficient is an index that shows effect of geological history and sedimentary processes on formation of fabric and structure in fine soils. In this research, the necessary studies for determining destructuring coefficient in Kerman city deposits were done by the behavior of natural and reconstituted soils. Thus, at first, reconstituted consolidation curves for the deposits called intrinsic compression curve was extracted. For evaluating soil destructuring coefficient, three different methods which are applicable in evaluating soil destructuring coefficient were applied. Thus, the required parameters of any model were extracted and natural compression curves were compared with intrinsic compression line or curves; then soil destructuring coefficient was calculated using theoretical model. The results showed that range of destructuring coefficient was less than unit and structure and fabric of soils were not developed. Also, formation of cement between the grains was not complete.
The Application of Velocity-Independent Normal Moveout Correction of Long-Offset Seismic Data
Authors: Si-Xin Zhu , Xing-Xiang Jian
Published: May 2015

The paper deals with the long offset hyperbolic curve with time, on the basis of double parameter normal moveout (NMO) velocity analysis. A non-hyperbolic time equation independent of velocity and the time-curve slope was derived. By replacing velocity and inhomogeneity parameter S with slope and slope derivative, long-offset normal moveout method independent of velocity was achieved. The simulated data and the actual data show that, this method can be used to solve the problems when the hyperbolic time equation was applied to velocity analysis. In the deep layers, the NMO will be increasingly smaller with the increase of reflection stratum depth, resulting in higher NMO velocity error and lower the accuracy of analysis. The most obvious characteristic of this method is the accuracy of NMO velocity analysis in the long offset and deep layer seismic data. This method with easy rule can be popularized and applied very widely.
Classification of Alteration Zones Based on Whole-rock Geochemical Data using Support Vector Machine
Authors: Abbaszadeh Maliheh , Hezarkhani Ardeshir , Soltani-Mohammadi Saeed
Published: May 2015

One of the most important steps in the mineral resource estimation and detailed exploration of porphyry copper deposit is separating the alteration zones as a control parameter of the copper grade. The most popular method for this separation is petrological investigations (other methods are not much popular), but the method lacks the ability to predict alteration zones of the un-sampled points. In this paper a new method has been proposed which is based on the support vector machine (SVM) classification of the analyzed whole rock samples and it has been used in Sungun porphyry copper deposit to separate potassic, phyllic and transition alteration zones. To apply the SVM method, use has been made of the radial basis function (RBF) as the kernel function and to obtain the optimal values for the SVM parameters (γ and C being the most important); the grid search method has been used. The best values for γ and C that have had good performance in the training and test steps are 0.0625 and 32, respectively. Results have revealed that the SVM classification (used in this study) can effectively separate the alteration zones in the Sungun deposit. Specifically, the accuracy of this method has been 75% which proves that the support vector machine can offer an inexpensive, fast and robust classification technique and it can be a valid alternative to the well established methodologies in this area.
Tendencias en el uso de las tecnologías de información y comunicación para la negociación internacional
Authors: Cano Jose Alejandro , Baena Jose Jaime
Published: May 2015

Este artículo identifica las principales tecnologías de información y comunicación (TIC) que se utilizan en el proceso de negociación internacional, clasificándolas por etapas y funcionalidad. Para esto se realizó una revisión de la literatura en bases de datos reconocidas y de alto impacto, con lo cual se construyó una propuesta de etapas en las que se divide el proceso de negociación internacional y una caracterización de las TIC teniendo en cuenta elementos como funcionalidad, herramientas comerciales, complejidad de uso y alcance, entre otros. Se concluye que existe una gran variedad de TIC que apoyan las etapas de la negociación internacional, brindando diversas soluciones a las necesidades específicas de cada empresa respecto al manejo de la información y comunicación.
Kindlin‐2 phosphorylation by Src at Y193 enhances Src activity and is involved in Migfilin recruitment to the focal adhesions
Authors: Liu Zhaoli , Lu Danyu , Wang Xiang , Wan Junhu , Liu Chang , Zhang Hongquan
Published: May 2015

Kindlin‐2 regulates external to internal cell signaling by interaction with integrins in a process that involves the tyrosine kinase, Src. However, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Here we report that Src binds to and phosphorylates Kindlin‐2 at Y193. Reciprocally, Kindlin‐2‐Y193 phosphorylation activates and maintains Src kinase activity. Kindlin‐2‐Y193 phosphorylation is also involved in its binding capacity with Migfilin and the recruitment of Migfilin to the focal adhesions. Functionally, we demonstrate that Kindlin‐2‐Y193 phosphorylation regulates Kindlin‐2‐mediated cell spreading and migration. These findings suggest that Src, Kindlin‐2 and Migfilin together constitute a positive feedback loop that controls Src activity and regulates integrin‐mediated cellular functions.
Secretin receptor involvement in prion‐infected cells and animals
Authors: Kimura Tomohiro , Nishizawa Keiko , Oguma Ayumi , Nishimura Yuki , Sakasegawa Yuji , Teruya Kenta , Nishijima Ichiko , Doh-ura Katsumi
Published: May 2015

The cellular mechanisms behind prion biosynthesis and metabolism remain unclear. Here we show that secretin signaling via the secretin receptor regulates abnormal prion protein formation in prion‐infected cells. Animal studies demonstrate that secretin receptor deficiency slightly, but significantly, prolongs incubation time in female but not male mice. This gender‐specificity is consistent with our finding that prion‐infected cells are derived from females. Therefore, our results provide initial insights into the reasons why age of disease onset in certain prion diseases is reported to occur slightly earlier in females than males.
Hyperproduction of IL‐6 caused by aberrant TDP‐43 overexpression in high‐fat diet‐induced obese mice
Authors: Lee Sungwook , Lee Taeyun A. , Song Su Jin , Park Taesun , Park Boyoun
Published: May 2015

Inclusion of Tat‐activating regulatory DNA‐binding protein‐43 (TDP‐43) due to hyperphosphorylation or hyperubiquitination is a cause of neurodegenerative disease. Cellular TDP‐43 expression is tightly controlled through a negative feedback loop involving its mRNA. Recently, we reported that the TDP‐43‐mediated sub‐nuclear body is an essential site of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) pre‐mRNA processing. Here we show that mice fed on a high‐fat diet exhibit increased TDP‐43 expression in the liver and adipose tissue with a prominent increase in IL‐6. TDP‐43 depletion in vivo reduces IL‐6 production in the liver. Overexpression or depletion of TDP‐43 in pre‐adipose and adipose cells causes reciprocal alteration of IL‐6 expression and RNA processing. Our findings provide evidence for a link between homeostasis of TDP‐43 expression and the risk of developing obesity.
Prefibrillar huntingtin oligomers isolated from HD brain potently seed amyloid formation
Authors: Morozova Olga A. , Gupta Sharad , Colby David W.
Published: May 2015

Many neurodegenerative diseases are associated with deposits of aggregated protein in the brain. The molecular pathways through which soluble proteins misfold to form amyloids and large protein aggregates often include diverse oligomeric species, only some of which progress to the amyloid state. Here we show that prefibrillar huntingtin (HTT) oligomers, isolated from Huntington's disease (HD) affected human brain samples or mouse models, stimulate polyglutamine amyloid formation. Fibrillar HTT oligomers have been shown to be unstable under denaturing conditions and appear not to lead to amyloid formation. Here we show that prefibrillar HTT oligomers are remarkably stable and are potent seeds of polyglutamine amyloid formation. Therefore, our findings help to dissect the complex molecular pathway of HTT misfolding.
Hyaluronic acid regulates a key redox control factor Nrf2 via phosphorylation of Akt in bovine articular chondrocytes
Authors: Onodera Yuta , Teramura Takeshi , Takehara Toshiyuki , Fukuda Kanji
Published: May 2015

One important pharmacological function of hyaluronic acid (HA) in chondrocytes is reduction of cellular superoxide generation and accumulation. Here we demonstrated a relationship between HA supplementation and accumulation of Nuclear factor‐erythroid‐2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2), which is a master transcription factor in cellular redox reactions, in cultured chondrocytes derived from bovine joint cartilage. In HA‐treated chondrocytes, expression of Nrf2 and its downstream genes was upregulated. In HA‐treated chondrocytes, Akt was phosphorylated, and inhibition of Akt activity or suppression of HA receptors CD44 and/or RHAMM with siRNAs prevented HA‐mediated Nrf2 accumulation. Furthermore, Nrf2 siRNA inhibited the HA effect on antioxidant enzymes. These results show that HA might contribute to ROS reduction through Nrf2 regulation by activating Akt. Our study suggests a new mechanism for extracellular matrix (ECM)‐mediated redox systems in chondrocytes.
Enhanced oleate uptake and lipotoxicity associated with laurate
Authors: Kitaura Yasuyuki , Inoue Kana , Kato Naoki , Matsushita Nahomi , Shimomura Yoshiharu
Published: May 2015

Free fatty acids have been reported to induce cell death (lipotoxicity), but the effects depend on the carbon chain length and number of double bonds. Medium‐chain saturated fatty acids (MC‐SFAs), such as laurate, have less lipotoxicity than long‐chain saturated fatty acids (LC‐SFAs), such as palmitate. Monounsaturated fatty acids, such as oleate, have also been reported not only to exert cytotoxic effects, but also to reduce the lipotoxicity of LC‐SFA. However the interaction between MC‐SFA and oleate with respect to cell death is unclear. In this report, we found that lipotoxicity was enhanced by a combination of laurate and oleate relative to either fatty acid alone. The possible mechanisms involved were examined by measuring the production of reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial depolarization, caspase‐3 activity, and lipid droplet formation. Although the stress signals and cell death pathways were distinct among different cell types, we found a common phenomenon of enhanced lipid droplet formation in all cells tested. Using fluorescent‐ or radioisotope‐labeled fatty acids, we found that oleate, but not laurate, increased the uptake of fluorescent‐labeled fatty acids, and the combinatory effect was more efficient than with oleate alone. We also found that laurate increased oleate uptake, but the effect of oleate on laurate uptake varied among cell types. These results suggest that laurate enhances the influx rate of oleate, the increased intracellular concentration of which not only enhances lipid storage, but also induces cell death by lipotoxic stress responses, which vary according to cell type.
Blockage of TGFβ‐SMAD2 by demethylation‐activated miR‐148a is involved in caffeic acid‐induced inhibition of cancer stem cell‐like propertiesin vitro andin vivo
Authors: Li Yuan , Jiang Fei , Chen Lijun , Yang Ye , Cao Shuyuan , Ye Yuting , Wang Xingxing , Mu Juan , Li Zhong , Li Lei
Published: May 2015

Current standard practices for treatment of cancers are less than satisfactory because of recurrence mediated by cancer stem cells (CSCs). Caffeic acid (CaA) is a novel anti‐tumor agent that inhibits proliferation, migration, and invasion in human cancer cells. However, little is known about the functions of CaA in regulating CSCs‐like properties and the potential molecular mechanisms. Here, we found that CaA attenuated the CSCs‐like properties by the microRNA‐148a (miR‐148a)‐mediated inhibition of transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ)‐SMAD2 signaling pathway bothin vitro andin vivo. CaA enhanced the expression of miR‐148a by inducing DNA methylation. MiR‐148a, which targeted theSMAD2‐3′UTR, decreased the expression of SMAD2. Knockdown of miR‐148a abolished the CaA‐induced inhibition of TGFβ‐SMAD2 signal pathway and the CSCs‐like properties. Our study found a novel mechanism that CaA inhibits the CSCs‐like properties via miR‐148a‐mediated inhibition of TGFβ‐SMAD2 signaling pathway, which may help to identify a new approach for the treatment of human cancers.
The effectiveness of combined abdominal myomectomy and uterine artery embolization
Authors: McLucas Bruce , Voorhees William D.
Published: May 2015

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of abdominal myomectomy after uterine artery embolization (UAE‐AM) among patients with myomas.

Methods

In a retrospective study, chart data were reviewed for patients attending a center in California, USA, who underwent UAE‐AM between 1999 and 2012. Patients had been offered the combined procedure if the diameter of the myoma was at least 4 cm, they wished to preserve fertility, or they were candidates for a traditional abdominal myomectomy. Estimated blood loss, fluoroscopy times, and hospital stay were recorded. Follow‐up data on uterine volume and fibroid size had been collected via magnetic resonance imaging or ultrasonography approximately 3–6 months after UAE‐AM.

Result

Overall, 20 patients underwent UAE‐AM. Approximately 6 months after the procedure, the mean decrease in uterine volume was 77.33% ± 14.25% and that in myoma diameter was 46.45% ± 25.61%. Six women subsequently became pregnant; one patient had two separate pregnancies. No patient required a conversion to hysterectomy or blood transfusion, and no recurrences were reported.

Conclusion

UAE‐AM was found to be an effective option available to women with large myomas who wished to preserve their uterus. With the combination procedure, patients had favorable outcomes with no fibroid recurrence.
Risk factors for heart failure during pregnancy among Chinese women with cardiac disease
Authors: Fu Qin , Lin Jianhua
Published: May 2015

Objective

To identify risk factors for heart failure (HF) during pregnancy among women with pre‐existing cardiac disease.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted of pregnant women with cardiac disease who attended Shanghai Obstetrical Cardiology Intensive Care Center, China, for delivery between January 1, 1993, and December 31, 2013. Independent predictors of HF were identified by logistic regression analysis.

Results

Among 1086 pregnant women with cardiac disease, 116 (10.7%) developed HF. In multivariate analysis, HF was associated with left ventricular systolic dysfunction (odds ratio [OR] 13.16, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.62–47.80; P < 0.001), history of HF before pregnancy (OR 11.66, 95% CI 5.83–23.33; P < 0.001), twin pregnancy (OR 11.63, 95% CI 4.10–32.99; P < 0.001), sinus tachycardia (OR 4.60, 95% CI 2.77–7.62; P < 0.001), New York Heart Association functional class higher than II (OR 3.36, 95% CI 1.11–10.25; P = 0.033), and severe pulmonary arterial hypertension (OR 1.40, 95% CI 1.10–1.78; P = 0.007).

Conclusion

Women with cardiac disease who wish to become pregnant should be guided by risk factors for HF. Those who do conceive should be closely monitored during pregnancy to improve outcomes and reduce maternal mortality and morbidity.
Risk factors associated with urinary incontinence in Portugal and the quality of life of affected women
Authors: Amaral Maria O.P. , Coutinho Emília C. , Nelas Paula A.A.B. , Chaves Claudia M.B. , Duarte João C.
Published: May 2015

Objective

To identify risk factors for urinary incontinence (UI) and assess the quality of life (QoL) of affected women.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted of all women with UI who attended the urology and gynecology services of four hospitals in central Portugal between March and December 2012. Information was obtained from participants using questionnaires assessing sociodemographic, obstetric, gynecologic, and lifestyle variables.

Results

Among 505 participants, 351 (69.5%) had urgency UI, 107 (21.2%) stress UI, and 47 (9.3%) mixed UI. Stress UI was associated with smoking, alcohol consumption, constipation, gravidity, parity, and vaginal infections (P ≤ 0.02 for all). Urgency UI was associated with age above 50 years, employment, smoking, and sitting for 2 hours or less per day (P ≤ 0.02 for all). Mixed UI was associated with age 50 years or younger, smoking, sitting for 2 hours or less per day, and frequently carrying more than 3 kg in weight (P < 0.001 for all). A negative impact on QoL was reported by 501 (99.2%) women. Compared with younger participants, women older than 50 years presented with more sleep/energy disturbances and performance limitations (P ≤ 0.04 for both).

Conclusion

UI is associated with several risk factors and has a negative impact on QoL. Appropriate investigation regarding the factors associated with the types of UI should be performed to diminish its impact on QoL.
Lessons from a geospatial analysis of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate sales by licensed chemical sellers in Ghana
Authors: Shelus Victoria , Lebetkin Elena , Keyes Emily , Mensah Stephen , Dzasi Kafui
Published: May 2015

Objectives

To map access to depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) from licensed chemical sellers (LCS); to estimate the proportion of women of reproductive age in areas with access; and to examine affordability and variability of costs.

Methods

A geospatial analysis was conducted using data collected from 298 women who purchased DMPA from 49 geocoded LCS shops in the Amansie West and Ejisu‐Juabeng districts of Ghana from June 4 to August 31, 2012. The women reported on cost and average distance traveled to purchase DMPA.

Results

In Amansie West, 21.1% of all women of reproductive age lived within average walking distance and 80.4% lived within average driving distance of an LCS. In Ejisu‐Juabeng, 41.9% and 60.1% of women lived within average walking and driving distance, respectively. Distribution of affordability varied across each district.

Conclusions

Access to LCS shops is high, and training LCS to administer DMPA would increase access to family planning in Ghana, with associated time and cost savings.
Gliomas with intratumoral abscess formation: Description of new cases, review of the literature, and the role of 99mTC‐Leukoscan
Authors: Campennì Alfredo , Caruso Gerardo , Barresi Valeria , Pino Mariangela , Cucinotta Mariapaola , Baldari Sergio , Caffo Maria
Published: May 2015

Abscess formation within a brain tumor is uncommon. Intrasellar or parasellar tumors are the most common neoplasms that develop such complications. Cerebral gliomas with abscesses are extremely rare. In this paper three rare cases of glioma associated with abscess formation are described. The diagnosis of brain tumor associated with abscess is particularly difficult by conventional neuroradiological studies. 99mTc‐labeled sulesomab can be useful in the diagnosis of brain tumors with intratumoral abscesses. There are no precise guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of cerebral gliomas associated with abscesses formation for the low number of cases reported to date. Appropriate treatment, aimed at radical surgery, and a suitable antibiotic‐protocol, deferring adjuvant postoperative therapy, is associated with a more favorable outcome. A review of the pertinent literature is also performed.
Submental Muscle Activity is Delayed and Shortened During Swallowing Following Stroke
Authors: Kim Hye‐Ri , Lee Seung Ah , Kim Keewon , Leigh Ja‐Ho , Han Tai Ryoon , Oh Byung‐Mo
Published: May 2015

Objective

To evaluate the activities of the submental muscles using surface electromyography (sEMG) in patients presenting with dysphagia secondary to middle cerebral artery (MCA) infarction, and to compare the results with those in healthy volunteers.

Design

Retrospective study design.

Setting

A dysphagia clinic at a tertiary care university hospital.

Participants

Twenty‐one patients presenting with dysphagia after unilateral MCA infarction were recruited into the study within 2 months of stroke onset. To serve as a control group, 13 healthy volunteers were enrolled.

Main Outcome Measures

The primary sEMG parameters were swallowing onset, pretrigger duration, swallowing duration, and swallowing amplitude. Swallowing functional outcome was evaluated using the Videofluoroscopic Dysphagia Scale and the American Speech‐Language‐Hearing Association National Outcome Measurement System.

Results

Patients with MCA infarction demonstrated significantly delayed swallowing onset (P < .001) and shorter swallowing duration (P = .003) compared with the controls. Duration from the start of sEMG activity and actual laryngeal elevation also was delayed in the patient group (P = .042). At a cut‐off point of 0.13 seconds for swallowing onset, sensitivity was 85.7% and specificity was 69.2%. For swallowing duration, sensitivity was 84.6% and specificity was 66.7% with 1.05 seconds as the cut‐off point.

Conclusions

Patients with MCA infarction showed not only delayed swallowing onset and pretrigger duration, but also shorter duration of sEMG activity compared with those in healthy volunteers. Our results suggest that dysphagia after stroke might be further compromised by delayed laryngeal response especially after the start of suprahyoid muscle activity, which represents impaired laryngeal protection mechanism.
Assessment of Spasticity With Sonoelastography Following Stroke: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Kesikburun Serdar , Yaşar Evren , Adıgüzel Emre , Güzelküçük Ümüt , Alaca Rıdvan , Tan Arif Kenan
Published: May 2015

Objective

To investigate the feasibility of sonoelastography to show muscle stiffness in poststroke spasticity, as well as the relationship between sonoelastography findings and muscle architecture features and clinical spasticity scores in the spastic gastrocnemius.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

University rehabilitation center.

Participants

A total of 26 stroke patients with gastrocnemius muscle spasticity (≥1 using the Modified Ashworth Scale score).

Interventions

None.

Main outcomes

Sonoelastography parameters (elasticity index and elasticity ratio) and muscle architecture features (muscle fascicle length, fascicle pennation angle, muscle thickness and compressibility) were measured from the medial and lateral gastrocnemius muscle on both the affected and unaffected sides.

Results

Both the elasticity index and elasticity ratio on the affected side were significantly increased in both the medial and lateral gastrocnemius compared with those on the unaffected side (P < .05). Of the muscle architecture parameters, the compressibility in the medial and lateral gastrocnemius and the fascicle pennation angle in the lateral gastrocnemius were significantly decreased on the affected side (P < .05). There was no significant difference in other parameters between the affected and unaffected side (P > .05). Sonoelastographic findings showed a weak negative correlation with compressibility and a weak positive correlation with the Modified Ashworth Scale score in the spastic medial gastrocnemius.

Conclusions

It was found to be feasible to assess stiffness in spastic gastrocnemius muscles of stroke patients with sonoelastography. Further studies are needed to confirm the potential role of sonoelastography to help guide treatment of spasticity and its sequelae.
Assessing the paleoenvironmental potential of Pliocene to Holocene tufa deposits along the Ghaap Plateau escarpment (South Africa) using stable isotopes
Authors: Doran Taylor Louise , Herries Andy I.R. , Hopley Philip J. , Sombroek Hank , Hellstrom John , Hodge Ed , Kuhn Brian F.
Published: May 2015

The tufa deposits of the Ghaap Plateau escarpment provide a rich, yet minimally explored, geological archive of climate and environmental history coincident with hominin evolution in South Africa. This study examines the sedimentary and geochemical records of ancient and modern tufas from Buxton-Norlim Limeworks, Groot Kloof, and Gorrokop, to assess the potential of these sediments for providing reliable chronologies of high-resolution, paleoenvironmental information. Chronometric dating demonstrates that tufa formation has occurred from at least the terminal Pliocene through to the modern day. The stable isotope records show a trend toward higher, more variable δ18O and δ13C values with decreasing age from the end of the Pliocene onwards. The long-term increase in δ18O values corresponds to increasingly arid conditions, while increasing δ13C values reflect the changing proportion of C3/C4 vegetation in the local environment. Analysis of the Thabaseek Tufa, in particular, provides valuable evidence for reconstructing the depositional and chronological context of the enigmatic Taung Child (Australopithecus africanus). Collectively, the results of the present study demonstrate the potential of these deposits for developing high-precision records of climate change and ultimately, for understanding the causal processes relating climate and hominin evolution.
Communicating Uncertainties in Sea Surface Temperature
Authors: Rayner Nick , Merchant Christopher , Corlett Gary
Published: May 2015

Sea Surface Temperature User Workshop on Uncertainties; Exeter, UK, 18–20 November 2014
Laser beam remodels liquid crystals on the fly
Authors: Smart Ashley G.
Published: May 2015

The laser can be used like a stylus to imprint microdomains of arbitrary shape and prescribed orientation.
Tobacco cells infused with carbon nanotubes feel the heat
Authors: Wilson R. Mark
Published: May 2015

The composite is hundreds of times more electrically sensitive to temperature than the best previous materials used for thermal sensors.
The neutron and proton weigh in, theoretically
Authors: Chang Sung
Published: May 2015

By adding electromagnetic effects to quantum chromodynamics calculations, theorists have achieved a leap in accuracy.
Remarkable gravitational lensing by the galaxy cluster Abell 3827
Authors: Blau Steven K.
Published: May 2015

The distorted image of a background galaxy may be a record of frictional dark-matter interactions.