bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of obesity on severity of colitis and cytokine expression in mouse mesenteric fat. Potential role of adiponectin receptor 1
Authors: Sideri Aristea , Stavrakis Dimitris , Bowe Collin , Shih David Q. , Fleshner Phillip , Arsenescu Violeta , Arsenescu Razvan , Turner Jerrold R. , Pothoulakis Charalabos , Karagiannides Iordanes
Published: January 2015

In inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), obesity is associated with worsening of the course of disease. Here, we examined the role of obesity in the development of colitis and studied mesenteric fat-epithelial cell interactions in patients with IBD. We combined the diet-induce obesity with the trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) colitis mouse model to create groups with obesity, colitis, and their combination. Changes in the mesenteric fat and intestine were assessed by histology, myeloperoxidase assay, and cytokine mRNA expression by real-time PCR. Medium from human mesenteric fat and cultured preadipocytes was obtained from obese patients and those with IBD. Histological analysis showed inflammatory cell infiltrate and increased histological damage in the intestine and mesenteric fat of obese mice with colitis compared with all other groups. Obesity also increased the expression of proinflammatory cytokines including IL-1β, TNF-α, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1, and keratinocyte-derived chemokine, while it decreased the TNBS-induced increases in IL-2 and IFN-γ in mesenteric adipose and intestinal tissues. Human mesenteric fat isolated from obese patients and those with and IBD demonstrated differential release of adipokines and growth factors compared with controls. Fat-conditioned media reduced adiponectin receptor 1 (AdipoR1) expression in human NCM460 colonic epithelial cells. AdipoR1 intracolonic silencing in mice exacerbated TNBS-induced colitis. In conclusion, obesity worsens the outcome of experimental colitis, and obesity- and IBD-associated changes in adipose tissue promote differential mediator release in mesenteric fat that modulates colonocyte responses and may affect the course of colitis. Our results also suggest an important role for AdipoR1 for the fat-intestinal axis in the regulation of inflammation during colitis.
Regulation of nonclassical renin-angiotensin system receptor gene expression in the adrenal medulla by acute and repeated immobilization stress
Authors: Nostramo Regina , Serova Lidia , Laukova Marcela , Tillinger Andrej , Peddu Chandana , Sabban Esther L.
Published: January 2015

The involvement of the nonclassical renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in the adrenomedullary response to stress is unclear. Therefore, we examined basal and immobilization stress (IMO)-triggered changes in gene expression of the classical and nonclassical RAS receptors in the rat adrenal medulla, specifically the angiotensin II type 2 (AT2) and type 4 (AT4) receptors, (pro)renin receptor [(P)RR], and Mas receptor (MasR). All RAS receptors were identified, with AT2receptor mRNA levels being the most abundant, followed by the (P)RR, AT1Areceptor, AT4receptor, and MasR. Following a single IMO, AT2and AT4receptor mRNA levels decreased by 90 and 50%, respectively. Their mRNA levels were also transiently decreased by repeated IMO. MasR mRNA levels displayed a 75% transient decrease as well. Conversely, (P)RR mRNA levels were increased by 50% following single or repeated IMO. Because of its abundance, the function of the (P)RR was explored in PC-12 cells. Prorenin activation of the (P)RR increased phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 and tyrosine hydroxylase at Ser31, likely increasing its enzymatic activity and catecholamine biosynthesis. Together, the broad and dynamic changes in gene expression of the nonclassical RAS receptors implicate their role in the intricate response of the adrenomedullary catecholaminergic system to stress.
Modeling the contribution of individual proteins to mixed skeletal muscle protein synthetic rates over increasing periods of label incorporation
Authors: Miller Benjamin F. , Wolff Christopher A. , Peelor Fredrick F. , Shipman Patrick D. , Hamilton Karyn L.
Published: January 2015

Advances in stable isotope approaches, primarily the use of deuterium oxide (2H2O), allow for long-term measurements of protein synthesis, as well as the contribution of individual proteins to tissue measured protein synthesis rates. Here, we determined the influence of individual protein synthetic rates, individual protein content, and time of isotopic labeling on the measured synthesis rate of skeletal muscle proteins. To this end, we developed a mathematical model, applied the model to an established data set collected in vivo, and, to experimentally test the impact of different isotopic labeling periods, used 2H2O to measure protein synthesis in cultured myotubes over periods of 2, 4, and 7 days. We first demonstrated the influence of both relative protein content and individual protein synthesis rates on measured synthesis rates over time. When expanded to include 286 individual proteins, the model closely approximated protein synthetic rates measured in vivo. The model revealed a 29% difference in measured synthesis rates from the slowest period of measurement (20 min) to the longest period of measurement (6 wk). In support of these findings, culturing of C2C12 myotubes with isotopic labeling periods of 2, 4, or 7 days revealed up to a doubling of the measured synthesis rate in the shorter labeling period compared with the longer period of labeling. From our model, we conclude that a 4-wk period of labeling is ideal for considering all proteins in a mixed-tissue fraction, while minimizing the slowing effect of fully turned-over proteins. In addition, we advocate that careful consideration must be paid to the period of isotopic labeling when comparing mixed protein synthetic rates between studies.
The effect of age on postural and cognitive task performance while using vibrotactile feedback
Authors: Lin Chia-Cheng , Whitney Susan L. , Loughlin Patrick J. , Furman Joseph M. , Redfern Mark S. , Sienko Kathleen H. , Sparto Patrick J.
Published: January 2015

Vibrotactile feedback (VTF) has been shown to improve balance performance in healthy people and people with vestibular disorders in a single-task experimental condition. It is unclear how age-related changes in balance affect the ability to use VTF and if there are different attentional requirements for old and young adults when using VTF. Twenty younger and 20 older subjects participated in this two-visit study to examine the effect of age, VTF, sensory condition, cognitive task, duration of time, and visit on postural and cognitive performance. Postural performance outcome measures included root mean square of center of pressure (COP) and trunk tilt, and cognitive performance was assessed using the reaction time (RT) from an auditory choice RT task. The results showed that compared with younger adults, older adults had an increase in COP in fixed platform conditions when using VTF, although they were able to reduce COP during sway-referenced platform conditions. Older adults also did not benefit fully from using VTF in their first session. The RTs for the secondary cognitive tasks increased significantly while using the VTF in both younger and older adults. Older adults had a larger increase compared with younger adults, suggesting that greater attentional demands were required in older adults when using VTF information. Future training protocols for VTF should take into consideration the effect of aging.
Electrogenic properties of the Na+/K+ATPase control transitions between normal and pathological brain states
Authors: Krishnan Giri P. , Filatov Gregory , Shilnikov Andrey , Bazhenov Maxim
Published: January 2015

Ionic concentrations fluctuate significantly during epileptic seizures. In this study, using a combination of in vitro electrophysiology, computer modeling, and dynamical systems analysis, we demonstrate that changes in the potassium and sodium intra- and extracellular ion concentrations ([K+] and [Na+], respectively) during seizure affect the neuron dynamics by modulating the outward Na+/K+pump current. First, we show that an increase of the outward Na+/K+pump current mediates termination of seizures when there is a progressive increase in the intracellular [Na+]. Second, we show that the Na+/K+pump current is crucial in maintaining the stability of the physiological network state; a reduction of this current leads to the onset of seizures via a positive-feedback loop. We then present a novel dynamical mechanism for bursting in neurons with a reduced Na+/K+pump. Overall, our study demonstrates the profound role of the current mediated by Na+/K+ATPase on the stability of neuronal dynamics that was previously unknown.
Hopf Bifurcation of an SIQR Computer Virus Model with Time Delay
Authors: Zhang Zizhen , Yang Huizhong
Published: January 2015

A delayed SIQR computer virus model is considered. It has been observed that there exists a critical value of delay for the stability of virus prevalence by choosing the delay as a bifurcation parameter. Furthermore, the properties of the Hopf bifurcation such as direction and stability are investigated by using the normal form method and center manifold theory. Finally, some numerical simulations for supporting our theoretical results are also performed.
Protection from Endotoxic Uveitis by Intravitreal Resolvin D1: Involvement of Lymphocytes, miRNAs, Ubiquitin‐Proteasome, and M1/M2 Macrophages
Authors: Rossi S. , Di Filippo C. , Gesualdo C. , Potenza N. , Russo A. , Trotta M. C. , Zippo M. V. , Maisto R. , Ferraraccio F. , Simonelli F. , D’Amico M.
Published: January 2015

This study investigated the protective effects of intravitreal Resolvin D1 (RvD1) against LPS‐induced rat endotoxic uveitis (EIU). RvD1 was administered into the right eye at a single injection of 5 μL volume containing 10–100–1000 ng/kg RvD1 1 h post‐LPS injection (200 μg, Salmonella minnesota) into thefootpad of Sprague‐Dawley rats. 24 h later, the eye was enucleated and examined for clinical, biochemical, and immunohistochemical evaluations. RvD1 significantly and dose‐dependently decreased the clinical score attributed to EIU, starting from the dose of 10 ng/kg and further decreased by 100 and 1000 ng/kg. These effects were accompanied by changes in four important determinants of the immune‐inflammatory response within the eye: (i) the B and T lymphocytes, (ii) the miRNAs pattern, (iii) the ubiquitin‐proteasome system (UPS), and (iv) the M1/M2 macrophage phenotype. LPS+RvD1 treated rats showed reduced presence of B and T lymphocytes and upregulation of miR‐200c‐3p, miR 203a‐3p, miR 29b‐3p, and miR 21‐5p into the eye compared to the LPS alone. This was paralleled by decreases of the ubiquitin, 20S and 26S proteasome subunits, reduced presence of macrophage M1, and increased presence of macrophage M2 in the ocular tissues. Accordingly, the levels of the cytokine TNF‐α, the chemokines MIP1‐α and NF‐κB were reduced.
Assessment of Hyperactive Reflexes in Patients with Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Xu Dali , Guo Xin , Yang Chung-Yong , Zhang Li-Qun
Published: January 2015

Hyperactive reflexes are commonly observed in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) but there is a lack of convenient and quantitative characterizations. Patellar tendon reflexes were examined in nine SCI patients and ten healthy control subjects by tapping the tendon using a hand-held instrumented hammer at various knee flexion angles, and the tapping force, quadriceps EMG, and knee extension torque were measured to characterize patellar tendon reflexes quantitatively in terms of the tendon reflex gain (Gtr), contraction rate (Rc), and reflex loop time delay (td). It was found that there are significant increases inGtrandRcand decrease intdin patients with spinal cord injury as compared to the controls (P<0.05). This study presented a convenient and quantitative method to evaluate reflex excitability and muscle contraction dynamics. With proper simplifications, it can potentially be used for quantitative diagnosis and outcome evaluations of hyperreflexia in clinical settings.
Shelf Life Determination of Fresh Blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum) Stored under Controlled Atmosphere and Ozone
Authors: Concha-Meyer Anibal , Eifert Joseph D. , Williams Robert C. , Marcy Joseph E. , Welbaum Gregory E.
Published: January 2015

Fresh blueberries are commonly stored and transported by refrigeration in controlled atmospheres to protect shelf life for long periods of storage. Ozone is an antimicrobial gas that can extend shelf life and protect fruit from microbial contamination. Shelf life of fresh highbush blueberries was determined over 10-day storage in isolated cabinets at 4°C or 12°C under different atmosphere conditions, including air (control); 5% O2 : 15% CO2 : 80% N2(controlled atmosphere storage (CAS)); and ozone gas (O3) 4 ppm at 4°C or 2.5 ppm at 12°C, at high relative humidity (90–95%). Samples were evaluated for yeast and molds growth, weight loss, and firmness. CAS and O3did not delay or inhibit yeast and molds growth in blueberries after 10 days at both temperatures. Fruit stored at 4°C showed lower weight loss values compared with 12°C. Blueberries stored under O3atmosphere showed reduced weight loss at 12°C by day 10 and loss of firmness when compared to the other treatments. Low concentrations of ozone gas together with proper refrigeration temperature can help protect fresh blueberries quality during storage.
The Direct Assignment Option as a Modular Design Component: An Example for the Setting of Two Predefined Subgroups
Authors: An Ming-Wen , Lu Xin , Sargent Daniel J. , Mandrekar Sumithra J.
Published: January 2015

Background. A phase II design with an option for direct assignment (stop randomization and assign all patients to experimental treatment based on interim analysis, IA) for a predefined subgroup was previously proposed. Here, we illustrate the modularity of the direct assignment option by applying it to the setting of two predefined subgroups and testing for separate subgroup main effects.Methods. We power the 2-subgroup direct assignment option design with 1 IA (DAD-1) to test for separate subgroup main effects, with assessment of power to detect an interaction in a post-hoc test. Simulations assessed the statistical properties of this design compared to the 2-subgroup balanced randomized design with 1 IA, BRD-1. Different response rates for treatment/control in subgroup 1 (0.4/0.2) and in subgroup 2 (0.1/0.2, 0.4/0.2) were considered.Results. The 2-subgroup DAD-1 preserves power and type I error rate compared to the 2-subgroup BRD-1, while exhibiting reasonable power in a post-hoc test for interaction.Conclusion. The direct assignment option is a flexible design component that can be incorporated into broader design frameworks, while maintaining desirable statistical properties, clinical appeal, and logistical simplicity.
Cascade Support Vector Machines with Dimensionality Reduction
Authors: Kramer Oliver
Published: January 2015

Cascade support vector machines have been introduced as extension of classic support vector machines that allow a fast training on large data sets. In this work, we combine cascade support vector machines with dimensionality reduction based preprocessing. The cascade principle allows fast learning based on the division of the training set into subsets and the union of cascade learning results based on support vectors in each cascade level. The combination with dimensionality reduction as preprocessing results in a significant speedup, often without loss of classifier accuracies, while considering the high-dimensional pendants of the low-dimensional support vectors in each new cascade level. We analyze and compare various instantiations of dimensionality reduction preprocessing and cascade SVMs with principal component analysis, locally linear embedding, and isometric mapping. The experimental analysis on various artificial and real-world benchmark problems includes various cascade specific parameters like intermediate training set sizes and dimensionalities.
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Pomegranate (Punica granatum) onEimeria papillata-Induced Infection in Mice
Authors: Amer Omar S. O. , Dkhil Mohamed A. , Hikal Wafaa M. , Al-Quraishy Saleh
Published: January 2015

Coccidiosis is the most prevalent disease causing widespread economic loss, especially in poultry farms. Here, we investigated the effects of pomegranate peel extract (PPE) on the outcome of coccidiosis caused byEimeria papillatain mice. The data showed that mice infected withE. papillataand treated with PPE revealed a significant decrease in the output of oocysts in their faeces by day 5 p.i. Infection also induced inflammation and injury of the jejunum. This was evidenced (i) as increases in reactive oxygen species, (ii), as increased neutrophils and decreased lymphocytes in blood (ii) as increased mRNA levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), Bcl-2 gene, and of the cytokines interferon gamma (IFN-γ), tumour necrosis factor-α(TNF-α), and interleukin-1β(IL-1β), and (iv) as downregulation of mucin gene MUC2 mRNA. All these infection-induced parameters were significantly altered during PPE treatment. In particular, PPE counteracted theE. papillata-induced loss of the total antioxidant capacity. Our data indicated that PPE treatment significantly attenuated inflammation and injury of the jejunum induced byE. papillatainfections.
Geophysical Contribution in the Characterization of Deep Water Tables Geometry (Sidi Bouzid, Central Tunisia)
Authors: Khazri D. , Gabtni H.
Published: January 2015

Geophysical data combined with geological and hydrogeological data were analyzed to characterize the geometry of Oued El Hajel and Ouled Asker deep water tables (Sidi Bouzid). The obtained results allowed refining the geostructural schema by highlighting the individualization of the NE-SW underground convexity of Ouled Asker and the anticline of axis Es Souda-Hmaeima and Ezaouia on either sides of two hydrogeological thresholds. The geometrical analysis determined the spatial extension of Ouled Asker and Oued El Hajel subbasins. The seismic cartography of semideep and deep reservoirs (Oligo-Miocene; Eocene and upper Cretaceous) associated with the main subbasins contributed to proposing hydrogeological prospect zones for a rationalized groundwater exploitation.
Micronutrients Deficiency, a Hidden Hunger in Nepal: Prevalence, Causes, Consequences, and Solutions
Authors: Bhandari Shiva , Banjara Megha Raj
Published: January 2015

Micronutrient deficiency is a global challenge to health as in Nepal. In Nepal, the targeted beneficiaries are less aware about importance of micronutrients (MNs), which has resulted in low intake of foods rich in MNs. Micronutrient deficiencies (MNDs) have huge impact on health of vulnerable population like women and children and have jeopardized the national economy and prosperity of developing countries including Nepal. However, less attention has been paid towards MNDs, which can be prevented. Therefore, this study aims to draw attention of the concerned authorities and researchers to combat against MNDs in Nepal. This study showed that different types of MNDs with higher prevalence exist in Nepal. The major causes of MNDs were poor diet, diseases and infestations, and poor health caring practices. The results of MNDs were unwanted child and maternal mortality, impairments of lives, and reduction in productivity and intellectual capacity. School health and nutrition education and supplementation and fortification of essential MNs proved to be effective while dietary diversification and economic growth and poverty eradication seemed promising. Control and prevention of MNDs can help to achieve Millennium Development Goals as well, so studies in this sector should be emphasized.
Actual Application of a H2-Based Polyvinyl Chloride Hollow Fiber Membrane Biofilm Reactor to Remove Nitrate from Groundwater
Authors: Zhang Yanhao , Huang Lilong , Zhang Zhibin , Sun Cuizhen , Li Jixiang
Published: January 2015

To evaluate the actual performance of the H2-based polyvinyl chloride hollow fiber membrane biofilm reactor (HF-MBfR), we used HF-MBfR to remove nitrate from the nitrate contaminated groundwater with the dissolved oxygen (~6.2 mg/L) in Zhangqiu city (Jinan, China). The reactor was operated over 135 days with the actual nitrate contaminated groundwater. The result showed that maximum of nitrate denitrification rate achieved was over 133.8 gNO3--N/m3d (1.18 gNO3--N/m2d) and the total nitrogen removal was more than 95.0% at the conditions of influent nitrate 50 mg/L, hydrogen pressure 0.05 MPa, and dissolved oxygen (DO) 6.2 mg/L, with the nitrate in effluent under the value limits of drinking water. The fluxes analysis showed that the electron-equivalent fluxes of nitrate, sulfate, and oxygen account for about 81.2%, 15.2%, and 3.6%, respectively, which indicated that nitrate reduction could consume more electrons than that of sulfate reduction and dissolved oxygen reduction. The nitrate reduction was not significantly influenced by sulfate reduction and the dissolved oxygen reduction. Based on the actual groundwater quality on site, the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) was 0.4, and the membrane could be at the risk of surface scaling.
Antitumor Phenylpropanoids Found in Essential Oils
Authors: Carvalho Adriana Andrade , Andrade Luciana Nalone , de Sousa Élida Batista Vieira , de Sousa Damião Pergentino
Published: January 2015

The search for new bioactive substances with anticancer activity and the understanding of their mechanisms of action are high-priorities in the research effort toward more effective treatments for cancer. The phenylpropanoids are natural products found in many aromatic and medicinal plants, food, and essential oils. They exhibit various pharmacological activities and have applications in the pharmaceutical industry. In this review, the anticancer potential of 17 phenylpropanoids and derivatives from essential oils is discussed. Chemical structures, experimental report, and mechanisms of action of bioactive substances are presented.
Multidrug Resistance in Escherichia coli Strains Isolated from Infections in Dogs and Cats in Poland (2007–2013)
Authors: Rzewuska Magdalena , Czopowicz Michał , Kizerwetter-Świda Magdalena , Chrobak Dorota , Błaszczak Borys , Binek Marian
Published: January 2015

The antimicrobial susceptibility of Escherichia coli isolates associated with various types of infections in dogs and cats was determined. The studied isolates were most frequently susceptible to fluoroquinolones and the extended‐spectrum cephalosporins (ESCs), antimicrobials commonly used in treatment of infections in companion animals. However, an increase in the percentage of strains resistant to β‐lactam antibiotics including ESCs was noted between January 2007 and December 2013. The frequency of multidrug‐resistant (MDR) E. coli isolation (66.8% of isolates) is alarming. Moreover, the statistically significant increase of the percentage of MDR isolates was observed during the study period. No difference in the prevalence of multidrug resistance was found between bacteria causing intestinal and extraintestinal infections and between canine and feline isolates. Nonhemolytic E. coli isolates were MDR more often than hemolytic ones. Our study showed the companion animals in Poland as an important reservoir of MDR bacteria. These results indicate that continuous monitoring of canine and feline E. coli antimicrobial susceptibility is required. Furthermore, introduction and application of recommendations for appropriate use of antimicrobials in small animal practice should be essential to minimize the emergence of multidrug resistance among E. coli in companion animals.
The Synergistic Effects of Heat Shock Protein 70 and Ginsenoside Rg1 against Tert-Butyl Hydroperoxide Damage Model In Vitro
Authors: Lu Dan , Xu Anding , Mai Hongcheng , Zhao Jiayi , Zhang Chanjuan , Qi Renbin , Wang Huadong , Lu Daxiang , Zhu Lihong
Published: January 2015

Neural stem cells (NSCs) transplanted is one of the hottest research to treat Alzheimer’s disease (AD), but cholinergic neurons from stem cells were also susceptible to cell death which Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) was affirmed to reverse. Related to cognitive impairment, cholinergic nervous cells should be investigated and ginsenoside Rg1 (G-Rg1) was considered to increase them. We chose tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BHP) damage model to study in vitro. Functional properties of our recombination plasmid pEGFP-C2-HSP70 were affirmed by SH-SY5Y cells. To opposite the transitory appearance of HSP70, NSCs used as the vectors of HSP70 gene overexpressed HSP70 for at least 7 days in vitro. After transfection for 3 days, G-Rg1 pretreatment for 4 hours, and coculture for 3 days, the expression of acetylcholinesterase (ChAT), synaptophysin, and the ratio of NeuN and GFAP were assessed by western blot; Morphological properties were detected by 3D reconstruction and immunofluorescence. ChAT was markedly improved in the groups contained G-Rg1. In coculture system, the ratio of neurons/astrocytes and the filaments of neurons were increased; apoptosis cells were decreased, compared to monotherapy (P<0.05). In conclusion, we demonstrated that, as a safe cotreatment affirmed in vitro, overexpression of HSP70 in NSCs plus G-Rg1 promoted nervous cells regeneration from chronic oxidative damage.
Boundedness of Marcinkiewicz Integrals and Their Commutators on Generalized Weighted Morrey Spaces
Authors: Cui Runqing , Li Zhang
Published: January 2015

We will study the boundedness of Marcinkiewicz integrals with rough kernel on the generalized weighted Morrey spaces. We will also prove that the commutator operators formed by aBMORnfunction and Marcinkiewicz integrals are also bounded on the generalized weighted Morrey spaces.
miR-136 Modulates TGF-β1-Induced Proliferation Arrest by Targeting PPP2R2A in Keratinocytes
Authors: Zhang Dianbao , Wang Jing , Wang Zhe , Zhang Tao , Shi Ping , Wang Xiliang , Zhao Feng , Liu Xiaoyu , Lin Xuewen , Pang Xining
Published: January 2015

Keratinocytes proliferation is critical for the capacity to heal wounds and accumulating evidences have proved that dysregulation of microRNAs is involved in proliferation of keratinocytes. However, the molecular mechanisms remain to be completely elucidated. Here, we show that miR-136 was significantly decreased by TGF-β1 treatment in HaCaT cells and normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEK), and it was a Smad3-dependent manner. By cell proliferation assay and cell cycle analysis, we found that reintroduction of miR-136 by transfection, as well as PPP2R2A silencing, counteracted TGF-β-induced proliferation arrest in HaCaT cells. Further, PPP2R2A was verified as a direct target of miR-136 by dual-luciferase reporter assays and Western blotting. These data suggest that miR-136 may play an important role during TGF-β1-induced proliferation arrest by targeting PPP2R2A in keratinocytes, which might represent a potential target for improving skin wound healing.
The Vasorelaxant Effect of p‐Cymene in Rat Aorta Involves Potassium Channels
Authors: Silva Martapolyana T. M. , Ribeiro Fernanda P. R. A. , Medeiros Maria Alice M. B. , Sampaio Pedrita A. , Silva Yonara M. S. , Silva Morganna T. A. , Quintans Jullyana S. S. , Quintans-Júnior Lucindo J. , Ribeiro Luciano A. A.
Published: January 2015

The monoterpenes are the main constituents of most essential oils and p‐cymene is a monoterpene commonly found in various species of aromatic herbs, which has been reported for anti‐inflammatory, antinociceptive, and antimicrobial activities. However, there is no report concerning its pharmacological activity on the vascular smooth muscle. The aim of current work was to investigate the effects of p‐cymene in isolated rat aorta and also study its mechanism of action. In this work, we show that p‐cymene has a relaxant effect, in a dose‐dependent way, on the vascular smooth muscle, regardless of the presence of the endothelium. Using a nonselective potassium channel blocker, the CsCl, the relaxant effect of p‐cymene was attenuated. In the presence of more selective potassium channels blockers, such as TEA or 4‐AP, no change in the relaxant effect of p‐cymene was evidenced, indicating that BKCa and KV channels are not involved in that relaxant effect. However, in the presence of glibenclamide or BaCl2, KATP and Kir blockers, respectively, the relaxant effect of p‐cymene was attenuated. The data presented indicate that p‐cymene has a relaxing effect on rat aorta, regardless of the endothelium, but with the participation of the KATP and Kir channels.
Analysis of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms within ADAM12 and Risk of Knee Osteoarthritis in a Chinese Han Population
Authors: Wang Lin , Guo Lin , Tian Fengde , Hao Ruihu , Yang Tiejun
Published: January 2015

Objective. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a complex arthritic condition in which the genetic factor plays a major role. One of the candidate genes of is the ADAM12 gene, but no consistency has been reached till now. This study aims to investigate the potential role of four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the ADAM12 gene in susceptibility to knee OA and its progression in Chinese Han population.Methods. The rs1278279, rs3740199, rs1044122, and rs1871054 polymorphisms were genotyped and compared in a population based cohort consisting of 164 OA subjects and 200 age- and gender-matched controls.Results. The SNP rs1871054 was found with increased risk of OA susceptibility in comparing the genotype frequencies between the case and control groups no matter for which model of comparison (allele level, dominant model, recessive model, and extreme genotype model). Additionally, the SNP rs1871054 was found associated with increased OA severity according to the K/L grade.Conclusion. In summary, we have identified that the rs1871054 variant within the ADAM12 gene is a risk factor for increased osteoarthritis susceptibility and severity.
Comparisons of Thyroid Hormone, Intelligence, Attention, and Quality of Life in Children with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Hypopnea Syndrome before and after Endoscopic Adenoidectomy
Authors: Feng Hui-Wei , Jiang Tao , Zhang Hong-Ping , Wang Zhe , Zhang Hai-Ling , Zhang Hui , Chen Xue-Mei , Fan Xian-Liang , Tian Yu-Dong , Jia Tao
Published: January 2015

Objective. The aim of this study was to compare the differences in thyroid hormone, intelligence, attention, and quality of life (QoL) of children with obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) before and after endoscopic adenoidectomy.Method. A total of 35 OSAHS children (21 males and 14 females with a mean age of6.81±1.08years) were included in this study for analyzing the levels of thyroid hormone, intelligence, attention, and QoL. There were 22 children underwent endoscopic adenoidectomy with bilateral tonsillectomy (BT), while the other 13 children who underwent endoscopic adenoidectomy without bilateral tonsillectomy without BT.Results. Our results revealed no significant difference in serum free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4), and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels in OSAHS children before and after endoscopic adenoidectomy (allP>0.05). However, there were significant differences in full-scale intelligence quotient (FIQ) (92.45±5.88versus106.23±7.39,P<0.001), verbal intelligence quotient (VIQ) (94.17±15.01versus103.91±9.74,P=0.006), and performance intelligence quotient (PIQ) (94.12±11.04versus104.31±10.05,P=0.001), attention (98.48±8.74versus106.87±8.58,P<0.001), and total OSA-18 scores (87.62±17.15versus46.61±10.15,P<0.001) between before and after endoscopic adenoidectomy in OSAHS children.Conclusion. Our findings provided evidence that the intelligence, attention, and QoL of OSAHS children may be significantly improved after endoscopic adenoidectomy.
Atypical Intracranial Epidermoid Cysts: Rare Anomalies with Unique Radiological Features
Authors: Law Eric K. C. , Lee Ryan K. L. , Ng Alex W. H. , Siu Deyond Y. W. , Ng Ho-Keung
Published: January 2015

Epidermoid cysts are benign slow growing extra-axial tumours that insinuate between brain structures, while their occurrences in intra-axial or intradiploic locations are exceptionally rare. We present the clinical, imaging, and pathological findings in two patients with atypical epidermoid cysts. CT and MRI findings for the first case revealed an intraparenchymal epidermoid cyst that demonstrated no restricted diffusion. The second case demonstrated an aggressive epidermoid cyst that invaded into the intradiploic spaces, transverse sinus, and the calvarium. The timing of ectodermal tissue sequestration during fetal development may account for the occurrence of atypical epidermoid cysts.
Mature Cystic Teratoma of the Fallopian Tube in a Postmenopausal Woman: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Sari Mustafa Erkan , Ozdemir Ozhan , Kadirogullari Pinar , Ertugrul Funda Arpaci , Atalay Cemal Resat
Published: January 2015

Background. Mature cystic teratomas of the fallopian tube are extremely rare and only 54 cases have been reported in the literature. In this paper, we report a mature cystic teratoma of the fallopian tube in a postmenopausal woman and we report the review of literature of tubal cystic teratomas.Case. A 62-year-old, gravida 4 postmenopausal woman presented with pain in the right lower abdominal region for a long time. An 88 × 72 × 95 mm heterogeneous mass which contained calcifications and lipoid components was detected in the right adnexal region by transvaginal ultrasonogram (TV-USG). Serum tumour markers, namely, CA125, CA15-3, and CA19-9, were within normal range. A laparotomy revealed a 9 × 10 cm cystic mass within the fimbrial region in the right fallopian tube, and right salpingoopherectomy was performed consequently. Microscopic examination revealed squamous epithelium with sebaceous glands and hair follicles, and pseudostratified ciliated respiratory epithelium with cartilage and mucous glands. Because the frozen section resulted in a benign dermoid cyst, no further operative procedure was performed. The postoperative follow-up was uneventful and the patient was discharged on the second postoperative day.Conclusion. In cases of undetermined pelvic or abdominal masses, a teratoma of the fallopian tube should be considered.
A Coupling Vibration Test Bench and the Simulation Research of a Maglev Vehicle
Authors: Ma Weihua , Song Rongrong , Xu Junqi , Zang Yu , Luo Shihui
Published: January 2015

To study the characteristics of the coupling vibration between a maglev vehicle and its track beam system and to improve the performance of the levitation system, a new type of vibration test bench was developed. Take a single maglev frame as the study object; simulation of the coupling vibration of the maglev vehicle, levitation system, and track beam were achieved. In addition, all types of real track irregularity excitations can be simulated using hydraulic actuators of the test bench. To expand the research scope, a simulation model was developed that can conduct the simulation research synergistically with the test bench. Based on a dynamics model of the test bench, the dynamics simulation method determined the influence on the levitation control performance of three factors: the track beam support stiffness, the track beam mass, and the track irregularity. The vibration resonance phenomenon of the vehicle/track system was reproduced by the dynamics simulation, and a portion of the simulation results were validated by the test results. By combining the test bench and the dynamics model, experiments can be guided by the simulation results, and the experimental results can validate the dynamics simulation results.
Receptor Binding Domain Based HIV Vaccines
Authors: Liu Huan , Bi Wenwen , Wang Qian , Lu Lu , Jiang Shibo
Published: January 2015

This paper analyzes the main trend of the development of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) vaccines in recent years. Designing an HIV-1 vaccine that provides robust protection from HIV-1 infection remains a challenge despite many years of effort. Therefore, we describe the receptor binding domain of gp120 as a target for developing AIDS vaccines. And we recommend some measures that could induce efficiently and produce cross-reactive neutralizing antibodies with high binding affinity. Those measures may offer a new way of the research and development of the potent and broad AIDS vaccines.
The Macrophage Galactose-Type Lectin-1 (MGL1) RecognizesTaenia crassicepsAntigens, Triggers Intracellular Signaling, and Is Critical for Resistance to This Infection
Authors: Montero-Barrera Daniel , Valderrama-Carvajal Héctor , Terrazas César A. , Rojas-Hernández Saúl , Ledesma-Soto Yadira , Vera-Arias Laura , Carrasco-Yépez Maricela , Gómez-García Lorena , Martínez-Saucedo Diana , Becerra-Díaz Mireya , Terrazas Luis I.
Published: January 2015

C-type lectins are multifunctional sugar-binding molecules expressed on dendritic cells (DCs) and macrophages that internalize antigens for processing and presentation. Macrophage galactose-type lectin 1 (MGL1) recognizes glycoconjugates expressing Lewis X structures which contain galactose residues, and it is selectively expressed on immature DCs and macrophages. Helminth parasites contain large amounts of glycosylated components, which play a role in the immune regulation induced by such infections. Macrophages from MGL1−/−mice showed less binding ability toward parasite antigens than their wild-type (WT) counterparts. Exposure of WT macrophages toT. crassicepsantigens triggered tyrosine phosphorylation signaling activity, which was diminished in MGL1−/−macrophages. FollowingT. crassicepsinfection, MGL1−/−mice failed to produce significant levels of inflammatory cytokines early in the infection compared to WT mice. In contrast, MGL1−/−mice developed a Th2-dominant immune response that was associated with significantly higher parasite loads, whereas WT mice were resistant. Flow cytometry and RT-PCR analyses showed overexpression of the mannose receptors, IL-4Rα, PDL2, arginase-1, Ym1, and RELM-αon MGL1−/−macrophages. These studies indicate that MGL1 is involved inT. crassicepsrecognition and subsequent innate immune activation and resistance.
Fibrinolytic Activity and Dose-Dependent Effect of Incubating Human Blood Clots in Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester:In VitroAssays
Authors: Elnager Abuzar , Hassan Rosline , Idris Zamzuri , Mustafa Zulkifli , Wan-Arfah Nadiah , Sulaiman S. A. , Gan Siew Hua , Abdullah Wan Zaidah
Published: January 2015

Background. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) has been reported to possess time-dependent fibrinolytic activity byin vitroassay. This study is aimed at investigating fibrinolytic dose-dependent activity of CAPE usingin vitroassays.Methods. Standardized human whole blood (WB) clots were incubated in either blank controls or different concentrations of CAPE (3.75, 7.50, 15.00, 22.50, and 30.00 mM). After 3 hours, D-dimer (DD) levels and WB clot weights were measured for each concentration. Thromboelastography (TEG) parameters were recorded following CAPE incubation, and fibrin morphology was examined under a confocal microscope.Results. Overall, mean DD (μg/mL) levels were significantly different across samples incubated with different CAPE concentrations, and the median pre- and postincubation WB clot weights (grams) were significantly decreased for each CAPE concentration. Fibrin removal was observed microscopically and indicated dose-dependent effects. Based on the TEG test, the Ly30 fibrinolytic parameter was significantly different between samples incubated with two different CAPE concentrations (15.0 and 22.50 mM). The 50% effective dose (ED50) of CAPE (based on DD) was 1.99 mg/mL.Conclusions. This study suggests that CAPE possesses fibrinolytic activity followingin vitroincubation and that it has dose-dependent activities. Therefore, further investigation into CAPE as a potential alternative thrombolytic agent should be conducted.
Antibacterial Mechanisms of Polymyxin and Bacterial Resistance
Authors: Yu Zhiliang , Qin Wangrong , Lin Jianxun , Fang Shisong , Qiu Juanping
Published: January 2015

Multidrug resistance in pathogens is an increasingly significant threat for human health. Indeed, some strains are resistant to almost all currently available antibiotics, leaving very limited choices for antimicrobial clinical therapy. In many such cases, polymyxins are the last option available, although their use increases the risk of developing resistant strains. This review mainly aims to discuss advances in unraveling the mechanisms of antibacterial activity of polymyxins and bacterial tolerance together with the description of polymyxin structure, synthesis, and structural modification. These are expected to help researchers not only develop a series of new polymyxin derivatives necessary for future medical care, but also optimize the clinical use of polymyxins with minimal resistance development.
Aluminium Process Fault Detection and Diagnosis
Authors: Abd Majid Nazatul Aini , Taylor Mark P. , Chen John J. J. , Young Brent R.
Published: January 2015

The challenges in developing a fault detection and diagnosis system for industrial applications are not inconsiderable, particularly complex materials processing operations such as aluminium smelting. However, the organizing into groups of the various fault detection and diagnostic systems of the aluminium smelting process can assist in the identification of the key elements of an effective monitoring system. This paper reviews aluminium process fault detection and diagnosis systems and proposes a taxonomy that includes four key elements: knowledge, techniques, usage frequency, and results presentation. Each element is explained together with examples of existing systems. A fault detection and diagnosis system developed based on the proposed taxonomy is demonstrated using aluminium smelting data. A potential new strategy for improving fault diagnosis is discussed based on the ability of the new technology, augmented reality, to augment operators’ view of an industrial plant, so that it permits a situation-oriented action in real working environments.
A Photoperiod-Regulating GeneCONSTANSIs Correlated to Lipid Biosynthesis inChlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Deng Xiaodong , Fan Xinzhao , Li Ping , Fei Xiaowen
Published: January 2015

Background.The regulation of lipid biosynthesis is essential in photosynthetic eukaryotic cells. Thus far, no regulatory genes have been reported in the lipid metabolism pathway. PlantCONSTANS (CO)gene regulates blooming by participating in photoperiod and biological clock. Apart from regulating photoperiod, theChlamydomonas COgene also regulates starch content.Results.In this study, the results showed that, under HSM-S condition, cells accumulated more lipids at short-day conditions than at long-day conditions. The silencing of theCrCOgene via RNA interference resulted in an increase in lipid content and an increase in triacylglyceride (TAG) level by 24.5%.CrCORNAi strains accumulated more lipids at short-day conditions than at long-day conditions. The decrease inCrCOexpression resulted in the increased expression of TAG biosynthesis-related genes, such asDGAT2, PAP2,andPDAT3, whereasCISandFBP1genes showed a decrease in their mRNA when theCrCOexpression was suppressed. On the other hand, the overexpression ofCrCOresulted in the decrease in lipid content and TAG level.Conclusions.The results of this study revealed a relationship betweenCrCOgene and lipid metabolism inChlamydomonas, suggesting that increasing oil by suppressingCrCOexpression in microalgae is feasible.
Theoretical Modelling and Effectiveness Study of Slotted Stand-Off Layer Damping Treatment for Rail Vibration and Noise Control
Authors: Zhao Caiyou , Wang Ping
Published: January 2015

A promising means of reducing railway noise is to increase the damping of the rail, which decreases the vibration of the rail to reduce noise. To achieve this goal, a slotted stand-off layer damping treatment has been developed, and a compound track model with this treatment is developed for investigating the effectiveness of this treatment in terms of the vibration reduction. Through the dynamic analysis of the track undergoing the slotted stand-off layer damping treatment, some guidelines are proposed on the selection of materials and structure parameters for this treatment. In addition, the prototype of the optimal slotted stand-off layer damping treatment has been built and tested in the laboratory. It is found that the slotted stand-off damping treatment shows significant effects in decreasing the amplitude of the accelerance of the rail and a significant reduction of sound emission reflected as the radiation sound pressure level decreases by 8.2 and 9.4 dB at vertical excitation and lateral excitation, respectively, in the frequency range of 0–4000 Hz.
Increase in the Tibial Slope Reduces Wear after Medial Unicompartmental Fixed-Bearing Arthroplasty of the Knee
Authors: Weber Patrick , Schröder Christian , Schwiesau Jens , Utzschneider Sandra , Steinbrück Arnd , Pietschmann Matthias F. , Jansson Volkmar , Müller Peter E.
Published: January 2015

Introduction. Unicompartmental arthroplasty of the knee in patients with isolated medial osteoarthritis gives good results, but survival is inferior to that of total knee prosthesis. Knees may fail because positioning of the prosthesis has been suboptimal. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of the tibial slope on the rate of wear of a medial fixed-bearing unicompartmental knee arthroplasty.Materials and Methods. We simulated wear on a medial fixed-bearing unicompartmental knee prosthesis (Univation) in vitro with a customised, four-station, and servohydraulic knee wear simulator, which exactly reproduced the walking cycle (International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) 14243-1:2002(E)). The medial prostheses were inserted with 3 different posterior tibial slopes: 0°, 4°, and 8° (n= 3 in each group).Results. The wear rate decreased significantly between 0° and 4° slope from 10.4 (SD 0.62) mg/million cycles to 3.22 (SD 1.71) mg/million cycles. Increasing the tibial slope to 8° did not significantly change the wear rate.Discussion. As an increase in the tibial slope reduced the wear rate in a fixed-bearing prosthesis, a higher tibial slope should be recommended. However, other factors that are influenced by the tibial slope (e.g., the tension of the ligament) must also be considered.
Superficial Tunica Albuginea Rupture as Initial Starting Point of Peyronie’s Disease: A Topic for Interdisciplinary Consideration
Authors: Herwig Ralf , Bayerl Manfred
Published: January 2015

Peyronie’s disease is a connective tissue disorder in the soft tissue of the penis. The underlying cause of Peyronie’s disease is not well understood but is thought to be caused by trauma or injury to the penis during sexual intercourse. The purpose of the interdisciplinary cooperation between urological surgery and physics is the development of a physical simulation tool in order to give prognosis of possible tunica albuginea fibre rupture at a certain degree of deviation of the penis. For our group the first challenge was to translate the human organ of the penis into a physical model. Starting and marginal parameters had to be defined, whereby some of them had to be based on assumption, as physical data of the human living tissue have rarely been measured up to now. The algorithm and its dependencies had to be developed. This paper is a first step of a three-dimensional mathematical-physical simulation with the assumption of a 100% filled rigid penis. The calculation gives proof of the hypothesis that the fibre-load-angle of the penis is less than 12 degrees. Thus physical simulation is able to provide the surgeon with a simple instrument to calculate and forecast the risk of the individual patient.