bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bisdemethoxycurcumin inhibits ovarian cancer via reducing oxidative stress mediated MMPs expressions
Authors: Pei Haifeng , Yang Yi , Cui Lin , Yang Jiong , Li Xiuchuan , Yang Yongjian , Duan Haixia
Published: June 2016

As one main active compound of curcuminoids, Bisdemethoxycurcumin (BDMC) possesses several biological activities, such as anti-inflammation and anti-cancer activities. However, the detailed mechanism of BDMC’s anti-metastasis activity in ovarian cancer has not been clearly elucidated yet. In the present study, cell proliferation, wound healing motility, cell adhesion and invasion with or without BDMC were determined. In addition, western blot was used to examine proteins expressions. The lucigenin-enhanced luminescence was introduced to assess cellular oxidative stress. The luciferase reporter gene assay was introduced to evaluate the transcriptional activity of NF-κB. Finally, BDMC significantly inhibited the adhesion, migration, invasion and metastasis of SKOV-3 cells. Moreover, BDMC inhibited expressions of several degradation-associated proteins, such as matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), CD147, urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), whereas increased expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1), in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, BDMC reduced generation of cellular superoxide in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, BDMC inhibited the phosphorylation levels of NF-κB p65 and IκB-α and consequently reduced NF-κB-driven luciferase expression. Collectively, BDMC serves as a therapeutic medicine to suppress ovarian cancer, perhaps via inhibiting cellular oxidative stress and subsequently inactivating NF-κB pathway.
Urbilaterian origin of paralogous GnRH and corazonin neuropeptide signalling pathways
Authors: Tian Shi , Zandawala Meet , Beets Isabel , Baytemur Esra , Slade Susan E. , Scrivens James H. , Elphick Maurice R.
Published: June 2016

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is a key regulator of reproductive maturation in humans and other vertebrates. Homologs of GnRH and its cognate receptor have been identified in invertebrates–for example, the adipokinetic hormone (AKH) and corazonin (CRZ) neuropeptide pathways in arthropods. However, the precise evolutionary relationships and origins of these signalling systems remain unknown. Here we have addressed this issue with the first identification of both GnRH-type and CRZ-type signalling systems in a deuterostome–the echinoderm (starfish) Asterias rubens. We have identified a GnRH-like neuropeptide (pQIHYKNPGWGPG-NH2) that specifically activates an A. rubens GnRH-type receptor and a novel neuropeptide (HNTFTMGGQNRWKAG-NH2) that specifically activates an A. rubens CRZ-type receptor. With the discovery of these ligand-receptor pairs, we demonstrate that the vertebrate/deuterostomian GnRH-type and the protostomian AKH systems are orthologous and the origin of a paralogous CRZ-type signalling system can be traced to the common ancestor of the Bilateria (Urbilateria).
Heterologous expression of a rice miR395 gene in Nicotiana tabacum impairs sulfate homeostasis
Authors: Yuan Ning , Yuan Shuangrong , Li Zhigang , Li Dayong , Hu Qian , Luo Hong
Published: June 2016

Sulfur participates in many important mechanisms and pathways of plant development. The most common source of sulfur in soil –SO42−– is absorbed into root tissue and distributed into aerial part through vasculature system, where it is reduced into sulfite and finally sulfide within the subcellular organs such as chloroplasts and mitochondria and used for cysteine and methionine biosynthesis. MicroRNAs are involved in many regulation pathways by repressing the expression of their target genes. MiR395 family in Arabidopsis thaliana has been reported to be an important regulator involved in sulfate transport and assimilation and a high-affinity sulphate transporter and three ATP sulfurylases (ATPS) were the target genes of AthmiR395 (Arabidopsis thaliana miR395). We have cloned a miR395 gene from rice (Oryza sativa) and studied its function in plant nutritional response. Our results indicated that in rice, transcript level of OsamiR395 (Oryza sativa miR395) increased under sulfate deficiency conditions and the two predicted target genes of miR395 were down-regulated under the same conditions. Overexpression of OsamiR395h in tobacco impaired its sulfate homeostasis and sulfate distribution was also slightly impacted among leaves of different ages. One sulfate transporter (SULTR) gene NtaSULTR2 was identified to be the target of miR395 in Nicotiana tobacum, which belongs to low affinity sulfate transporter group. Both miR395 and NtaSULTR2 respond to sulfate starvation in tobacco.
Potential advantages of a novel chitosan-N-acetylcysteine surface modified nanostructured lipid carrier on the performance of ophthalmic delivery of curcumin
Authors: Liu Dandan , Li Jinyu , Pan Hao , He Fengwei , Liu Zhidong , Wu Qingyin , Bai Chunping , Yu Shihui , Yang Xinggang
Published: June 2016

The transient precorneal retention time and low penetration capacity into intraocular tissues are the key obstacles that hinder the ophthalmic drug delivery of many therapeutic compounds, especially for drugs with poor solubility and permeability. To break the stalemate, N-acetyl-L-cysteine functionalized chitosan copolymer (CS-NAC), which exhibit marked bioadhesion and permeation enhancing effect, was synthesized. The curcumin encapsulated NLC (CUR-NLC) was produced and optimized followed by surface absorption of CS-NAC. After coating, changed particle size from 50.76 ± 2.21 nm to 88.64 ± 1.25 nm and reversed zeta potential from −20.38 ± 0.39 mV to 22.51 ± 0.34 mV was observed. The in vitro CUR release from NLC was slower than that of CUR-NLC and chitosan hydrochlorides (CH) coated NLC due to the inter and/or intramolecular disulfide formation of thiomers on the surface of nanocarriers. The modification also significantly enhanced transcorneal penetration compared with CH-NLC and the uncoated ones. The effect on bioadhesion and precorneal retention were evaluated by in vivo imaging technique and ocular pharmacokinetics studies revealing that the clearance of the formulations was significantly delayed in the presence of CS-NAC and the effect was positively related to the degree of thiolation. In summary, CS-NAC-NLC presented a series of notable advantages for ophthalmic drug application.
Quantifying the effect of organic aerosol aging and intermediate-volatility emissions on regional-scale aerosol pollution in China
Authors: Zhao Bin , Wang Shuxiao , Donahue Neil M. , Jathar Shantanu H. , Huang Xiaofeng , Wu Wenjing , Hao Jiming , Robinson Allen L.
Published: June 2016

Secondary organic aerosol (SOA) is one of the least understood constituents of fine particles; current widely-used models cannot predict its loadings or oxidation state. Recent laboratory experiments demonstrated the importance of several new processes, including aging of SOA from traditional precursors, aging of primary organic aerosol (POA), and photo-oxidation of intermediate volatility organic compounds (IVOCs). However, evaluating the effect of these processes in the real atmosphere is challenging. Most models used in previous studies are over-simplified and some key reaction trajectories are not captured, and model parameters are usually phenomenological and lack experimental constraints. Here we comprehensively assess the effect of organic aerosol (OA) aging and intermediate-volatility emissions on regional-scale OA pollution with a state-of-the-art model framework and experimentally constrained parameters. We find that OA aging and intermediate-volatility emissions together increase OA and SOA concentrations in Eastern China by about 40% and a factor of 10, respectively, thereby improving model-measurement agreement significantly. POA and IVOCs both constitute over 40% of OA concentrations, and IVOCs constitute over half of SOA concentrations; this differs significantly from previous apportionment of SOA sources. This study facilitates an improved estimate of aerosol-induced climate and health impacts, and implies a shift from current fine-particle control policies.
Formation and characteristics of biomimetic mineralo-organic particles in natural surface water
Authors: Wu Cheng-Yeu , Martel Jan , Wong Tsui-Yin , Young David , Liu Chien-Chun , Lin Cheng-Wei , Young John D.
Published: June 2016

Recent studies have shown that nanoparticles exist in environmental water but the formation, characteristics and fate of such particles remain incompletely understood. We show here that surface water obtained from various sources (ocean, hot springs, and soil) produces mineralo-organic particles that gradually increase in size and number during incubation. Seawater produces mineralo-organic particles following several cycles of filtration and incubation, indicating that this water possesses high particle-seeding potential. Electron microscopy observations reveal round, bacteria-like mineral particles with diameters of 20 to 800 nm, which may coalesce and aggregate to form mineralized biofilm-like structures. Chemical analysis of the particles shows the presence of a wide range of chemical elements that form mixed mineral phases dominated by calcium and iron sulfates, silicon and aluminum oxides, sodium carbonate, and iron sulfide. Proteomic analysis indicates that the particles bind to proteins of bacterial, plant and animal origins. When observed under dark-field microscopy, mineral particles derived from soil-water show biomimetic morphologies, including large, round structures similar to cells undergoing division. These findings have important implications not only for the recognition of biosignatures and fossils of small microorganisms in the environment but also for the geochemical cycling of elements, ions and organic matter in surface water.
Optomechanically induced transparency in multi-cavity optomechanical system with and without one two-level atom
Authors: Sohail Amjad , Zhang Yang , Zhang Jun , Yu Chang-shui
Published: June 2016

We analytically study the optomechanically induced transparency (OMIT) in the N-cavity system with the Nth cavity driven by pump, probing laser fields and the 1st cavity coupled to mechanical oscillator. We also consider that one atom could be trapped in the ith cavity. Instead of only illustrating the OMIT in such a system, we are interested in how the number of OMIT windows is influenced by the cavities and the atom and what roles the atom could play in different cavities. In the resolved sideband regime, we find that, the number of cavities precisely determines the maximal number of OMIT windows. It is interesting that, when the two-level atom is trapped in the even-labeled cavity, the central absorptive peak (odd N) or dip (even N) is split and forms an extra OMIT window, but if the atom is trapped in the odd-labeled cavity, the central absorptive peak (odd N) or dip (even N) is only broadened and thus changes the width of the OMIT windows rather than induces an extra window.
Downregulation of stathmin 1 in human gallbladder carcinoma inhibits tumor growth in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Wang Jiwen , Yao Yanli , Ming Yue , Shen Sheng , Wu Nan , Liu Jiaqi , Liu Han , Suo Tao , Pan Hongtao , Zhang Dexiang , Ding Kan , Liu Houbao
Published: June 2016

Gallbladder carcinoma (GBC) is a highly lethal malignancy of the gastrointestinal tract. Despite extensive research, the underlying molecular mechanism of GBC remains largely unclear. Stathmin 1 (STMN1) is an important cytosolic protein associated with microtubule stability that was reported to be involved in tumorigenesis. Up to our knowledge, its role in gallbladder carcinoma has not been analyzed. In this study, we found that STMN1 was significantly highly expressed in GBC by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Further research demonstrated that silencing of STMN1 inhibited cell growth in vitro. Moreover, knockdown of STMN1 induced apoptosis and delayed G2/M phase transformation in GBC cells. Our data support a rationale for further studies that the silencing of STMN1 may regulate the activity of p38 MAPK kinase and p53/p21 signal pathway. Besides, xenografted gallbladder carcinoma cells growth were significantly impaired after STMN1 was silenced in vivo. These results suggested that STMN1 played an important role in cell proliferation and migration. This provided a potential clue for investigating the therapeutic target in GBC.
WISP1-αvβ3 integrin signaling positively regulates TLR-triggered inflammation response in sepsis induced lung injury
Authors: Chen Zhixia , Ding Xibing , Jin Shuqing , Pitt Bruce , Zhang Liming , Billiar Timothy , Li Quan
Published: June 2016

We recently noted that the matricellular protein WISP1 contributes to sepsis induced acute lung injury (ALI) via integrin β6. In the current study, we pursued further aspects of WISP1 modulation of TLR signaling in lungs of mice after sepsis and TLR4 mediated release of TNF-α in macrophages. After confirming that TLR4 and CD14 are critical in transducing sepsis mediated ALI, we now demonstrate that intrapulmonary αvβ3 is increased by polymicrobrial sepsis in a TLR4, CD14 dependent fashion. Comparison of cultured macrophages revealed that WISP1 increased release of TNF-α from RAW264.7 cells with baseline expression of αvβ3, but primary cultures of peritoneal macrophages (PMø) required activation of TLR4 to induce de novo synthesis of αvβ3 enabling WISP1 to stimulate release of TNF-α. The specific requirement for β3 integrin was apparent when the effect of WISP1 was lost in PMø isolated from β3−/− mice. WISP1 enhanced TLR4 mediated ERK signaling and U0126 (an ERK inhibitor) blocked LPS induced β3 integrin expression and WISP1 enhanced TNF-α release. Collectively these data suggest that WISP1-αvβ3 integrin signaling is involved in TLR4 pathways in macrophages and may be an important contributor to TLR4/CD14 mediated inflammation in sepsis induced lung injury.
The H3K9 methyltransferase Setdb1 regulates TLR4-mediated inflammatory responses in macrophages
Authors: Hachiya Rumi , Shiihashi Takuya , Shirakawa Ibuki , Iwasaki Yorihiro , Matsumura Yoshihiro , Oishi Yumiko , Nakayama Yukiteru , Miyamoto Yoshihiro , Manabe Ichiro , Ochi Kozue , Tanaka Miyako , Goda Nobuhito , Sakai Juro , Suganami Takayoshi , Ogawa Yoshihiro
Published: June 2016

Proinflammatory cytokine production in macrophages involves multiple regulatory mechanisms, which are affected by environmental and intrinsic stress. In particular, accumulating evidence has suggested epigenetic control of macrophage differentiation and function mainly in vitro. SET domain, bifurcated 1 (Setdb1, also known as Eset) is a histone 3 lysine 9 (H3K9)-specific methyltransferase and is essential for early development of embryos. Here we demonstrate that Setdb1 in macrophages potently suppresses Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-mediated expression of proinflammatory cytokines including interleukin-6 through its methyltransferase activity. As a molecular mechanism, Setdb1-deficiency decreases the basal H3K9 methylation levels and augments TLR4-mediated NF-κB recruitment on the proximal promoter region of interleukin-6, thereby accelerating interleukin-6 promoter activity. Moreover, macrophage-specific Setdb1-knockout mice exhibit higher serum interleukin-6 concentrations in response to lipopolysaccharide challenge and are more susceptible to endotoxin shock than wildtype mice. This study provides evidence that the H3K9 methyltransferase Setdb1 is a novel epigenetic regulator of proinflammatory cytokine expression in macrophages in vitro and in vivo. Our data will shed insight into the better understanding of how the immune system reacts to a variety of conditions.
Maraviroc Reduces Arterial Stiffness in PI-Treated HIV-infected Patients
Authors: Piconi Stefania , Pocaterra Daria , Rainone Veronica , Cossu Maria , Masetti Michela , Rizzardini Giuliano , Clerici Mario , Trabattoni Daria
Published: June 2016

The Δ32-CCR5 deletion of the CCR5 receptor is protective toward coronary artery pathology and myocardial infarction. Maraviroc (MVC), a CCR5 antagonist, was recently introduced in the therapy of HIV infection; we evaluated whether this drug could modulate the atherosclerotic burden in aviremic PI-treated HIV-positive individuals who underwent MVC intensification. Thus, the effect of MVC on intima media thickness, arterial stiffness, metabolic parameters, pro-inflammatory cytokines, endothelial dysfunction, and microbial traslocation markers was analyzed in 6 aviremic PI-treated HIV-positive individuals and were compared to those obtained in 9 additional aviremic PI-treated subjects that were enrolled retrospectively from our outpatients cohort. MVC intensification resulted in a significant reduction in intima media thickness, pulse wave velocity and triglycerides compared to baseline. Notably, MVC was also associated with a significant reduction of IL-6, microbial translocation indexes, sICAM and sVCAM; these changes were maintained throughout the 6 months of MVC intensification. No significant modifications were observed in CD4 counts, HIV viral load, and cholesterolemia. Results herein support a role of CCR5 antagonists in reducing the cardiovascular risk in HIV-infection. The hampering of inflammation, microbial translocation and the improvement of endothelial function could justify the protective role of CCR5 antagonists on atherosclerotic burden.
Soil Potassium Deficiency Reduces Cotton Fiber Strength by Accelerating and Shortening Fiber Development
Authors: Yang Jia-Shuo , Hu Wei , Zhao Wenqing , Meng Yali , Chen Binglin , Wang Youhua , Zhou Zhiguo
Published: June 2016

Low potassium (K)-induced premature senescence in cotton has been observed worldwide, but how it affects cotton fiber properties remain unclear. We hypothesized that K deficiency affects cotton fiber properties by causing disordered fiber development, which may in turn be caused by the induction of a carbohydrate acquisition difficulty. To investigate this issue, we employed a low-K-sensitive cotton cultivar Siza 3 and a low-K-tolerant cultivar Simian 3 and planted them in three regions of different K supply. Data concerning lint yield, Pn and main fiber properties were collected from three years of testing. Soil K deficiency significantly accelerated fiber cellulose accumulation and dehydration processes, which, together with previous findings, suggests that the low-K induced carbohydrate acquisition difficulty could cause disordered fiber development by stimulating the expression of functional proteins such as CDKA (cyclin-dependent kinase). As a result, fiber strength and lint weight were reduced by up to 7.8% and 2.1%, respectively. Additional quantitative analysis revealed that the degree of accelerated fiber development negatively correlated with fiber strength. According to the results of this study, it is feasible to address the effects of soil K deficiency on fiber properties using existing cultivation strategies to prevent premature senescence of cotton plants.
Ethoxyquin provides neuroprotection against cisplatin-induced neurotoxicity
Authors: Zhu Jing , Carozzi Valentina Alda , Reed Nicole , Mi Ruifa , Marmiroli Paola , Cavaletti Guido , Hoke Ahmet
Published: June 2016

Ethoxyquin was recently identified as a neuroprotective compound against toxic neuropathies and efficacy was demonstrated against paclitaxel-induced neurotoxicity in vivo. In this study we examined the efficacy of ethoxyquin in preventing neurotoxicity of cisplatin in rodent models of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy and explored its mechanism of action. Ethoxyquin prevented neurotoxicity of cisplatin in vitro in a sensory neuronal cell line and primary rat dorsal root ganglion neurons. In vivo, chronic co-administration of ethoxyquin partially abrogated cisplatin-induced behavioral, electrophysiological and morphological abnormalities. Furthermore, ethoxyquin did not interfere with cisplatin’s ability to induce tumor cell death in ovarian cancer cell line in vitro and in vivo. Finally, ethoxyquin reduced the levels of two client proteins (SF3B2 and ataxin-2) of a chaperone protein, heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) when co-administered with cisplatin in vitro. These results implied that the neuroprotective effect of ethoxyquin is mediated through these two client proteins of Hsp90. In fact, reducing levels of SF3B2 in tissue-cultured neurons was effective against neurotoxicity of cisplatin. These findings suggest that ethoxyquin or other compounds that inhibit chaperone activity of Hsp90 and reduce levels of its client protein, SF3B2 may be developed as an adjuvant therapy to prevent neurotoxicity in cisplatin-based chemotherapy protocols.
The impact of individual and combined abiotic factors on daily otolith growth in a coral reef fish
Authors: Wenger Amelia S. , Whinney James , Taylor Brett , Kroon Frederieke
Published: June 2016

Coral reefs are increasingly subjected to both local and global stressors, however, there is limited information on how reef organisms respond to their combined effects under natural conditions. This field study examined the growth response of the damselfish Neopomacentrus bankieri to the individual and combined effects of multiple abiotic factors. Turbidity, temperature, tidal movement, and wave action were recorded every 10 minutes for four months, after which the daily otolith growth of N. bankieri was aligned with corresponding abiotic conditions. Temperature was the only significant driver of daily otolith increment width, with increasing temperatures resulting in decreasing width. Although tidal movement was not a significant driver of increment width by itself, the combined effect of tidal movement and temperature had a greater negative effect on growth than temperature alone. Our results indicate that temperature can drive changes in growth even at very fine scales, and demonstrate that the cumulative impact of abiotic factors can be substantially greater than individual effects. As abiotic factors continue to change in intensity and duration, the combined impacts of them will become increasingly important drivers of physiological and ecological change.
Osteopontin deficiency reduces kidney damage from hypercholesterolemia in Apolipoprotein E-deficient mice
Authors: Pei Zouwei , Okura Takafumi , Nagao Tomoaki , Enomoto Daijiro , Kukida Masayoshi , Tanino Akiko , Miyoshi Ken-ichi , Kurata Mie , Higaki Jitsuo
Published: June 2016

Hypercholesterolemia is a well-established risk factor for kidney injury, which can lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD). Osteopontin (OPN) has been implicated in the pathology of several renal conditions. This study was to evaluate the effects of OPN on hypercholesterolemia induced renal dysfunction. Eight-week-old male mice were divided into 4 groups: apolipoprotein E knockout (ApoE−/−) and ApoE/OPN knockout (ApoE−/−/OPN−/−) mice fed a normal diet (ND) or high cholesterol diet (HD). After 4 weeks, Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) and oil red O staining revealed excessive lipid deposition in the glomeruli of ApoE−/−HD mice, however, significantly suppressed in ApoE−/−/OPN−/−HD mice. Lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1) expression was lower in the glomeruli of ApoE−/−/OPN−/−HD mice than ApoE−/−HD mice. In vitro study, primary mesangial cells were incubated with recombinant mouse OPN (rmOPN). RmOPN induced LOX-1 mRNA and protein expression in primary mesangial cells. Pre-treatment with an ERK inhibitor suppressed the LOX-1 gene expression induced by rmOPN. These results indicate that OPN contributes to kidney damage in hypercholesterolemia and suggest that inhibition of OPN may provide a potential therapeutic target for the prevention of hypercholesterolemia.
Long Non-coding RNA H19 Inhibits Adipocyte Differentiation of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells through Epigenetic Modulation of Histone Deacetylases
Authors: Huang Yiping , Zheng Yunfei , Jin Chanyuan , Li Xiaobei , Jia Lingfei , Li Weiran
Published: June 2016

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) exhibit an increased propensity toward adipocyte differentiation accompanied by a reduction in osteogenesis in osteoporotic bone marrow. However, limited knowledge is available concerning the role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the differentiation of BMSCs into adipocytes. In this study, we demonstrated that lncRNA H19 and microRNA-675 (miR-675) derived from H19 were significantly downregulated in BMSCs that were differentiating into adipocytes. Overexpression of H19 and miR-675 inhibited adipogenesis, while knockdown of their endogenous expression accelerated adipogenic differentiation. Mechanistically, we found that miR-675 targeted the 3′ untranslated regions of the histone deacetylase (HDAC) 4–6 transcripts and resulted in deregulation of HDACs 4–6, essential molecules in adipogenesis. In turn, trichostatin A, an HDAC inhibitor, significantly reduced CCCTC-binding factor (CTCF) occupancy in the imprinting control region upstream of the H19 gene locus and subsequently downregulated the expression of H19. These results show that the CTCF/H19/miR-675/HDAC regulatory pathway plays an important role in the commitment of BMSCs into adipocytes.
(-)-SCR1693 Protects against Memory Impairment and Hippocampal Damage in a Chronic Cerebral Hypoperfusion Rat Model
Authors: Zhu Xiaoyin , Tian Jingwei , Sun Songmei , Dong Qiuju , Zhang Fangxi , Zhang Xiumei
Published: June 2016

Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH) is one of the most common causes of vascular dementia (VaD) and is recognised as an etiological factor in the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). CCH can induce severe cognitive deficits, as assessed by the water maze task, along with neuronal loss in the hippocampus. However, there are currently no effective, approved pharmacological treatments available for VaD. In the present study, we created a rat model of CCH using bilateral common carotid artery occlusion and found that (-)-SCR1693, a novel compound, prevented rats from developing memory deficits and neuronal damage in the hippocampus by rectifying cholinergic dysfunction and decreasing the accumulation of the phospho-tau protein. These results strongly suggest that (-)-SCR1693 has therapeutic potential for the treatment of CCH-induced VaD.
Re-evaluation of EMG-torque relation in chronic stroke using linear electrode array EMG recordings
Authors: Bhadane Minal , Liu Jie , Rymer W. Zev , Zhou Ping , Li Sheng
Published: June 2016

The objective was to re-evaluate the controversial reports of EMG-torque relation between impaired and non-impaired sides using linear electrode array EMG recordings. Ten subjects with chronic stroke performed a series of submaximal isometric elbow flexion tasks. A 20-channel linear array was used to record surface EMG of the biceps brachii muscles from both impaired and non-impaired sides. M-wave recordings for bilateral biceps brachii muscles were also made. Distribution of the slope of the EMG-torque relations for the individual channels showed a quasi-symmetrical “M” shaped pattern. The lowest value corresponded to the innervation zone (IZ) location. The highest value from the slope curve for each side was selected for comparison to minimize the effect of electrode placement and IZ asymmetry. The slope was greater on the impaired side in 4 of 10 subjects. There were a weak correlation between slope ratio and strength ratio and a moderate to high correlation between slope ratio and M-wave ratio between two sides. These findings suggest that the EMG-torque relations are likely mediated and influenced by multiple factors. Our findings emphasize the importance of electrode placement and suggest the primary role of peripheral adaptive changes in the EMG-torque relations in chronic stroke.
High Fat Diets Induce Colonic Epithelial Cell Stress and Inflammation that is Reversed by IL-22
Authors: Gulhane Max , Murray Lydia , Lourie Rohan , Tong Hui , Sheng Yong H. , Wang Ran , Kang Alicia , Schreiber Veronika , Wong Kuan Yau , Magor Graham , Denman Stuart , Begun Jakob , Florin Timothy H. , Perkins Andrew , Cuív Páraic Ó. , McGuckin Michael A. , Hasnain Sumaira Z.
Published: June 2016

Prolonged high fat diets (HFD) induce low-grade chronic intestinal inflammation in mice, and diets high in saturated fat are a risk factor for the development of human inflammatory bowel diseases. We hypothesized that HFD-induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER)/oxidative stress occur in intestinal secretory goblet cells, triggering inflammatory signaling and reducing synthesis/secretion of proteins that form the protective mucus barrier. In cultured intestinal cells non-esterified long-chain saturated fatty acids directly increased oxidative/ER stress leading to protein misfolding. A prolonged HFD elevated the intestinal inflammatory cytokine signature, alongside compromised mucosal barrier integrity with a decrease in goblet cell differentiation and Muc2, a loss in the tight junction protein, claudin-1 and increased serum endotoxin levels. In Winnie mice, that develop spontaneous colitis, HFD-feeding increased ER stress, further compromised the mucosal barrier and increased the severity of colitis. In obese mice IL-22 reduced ER/oxidative stress and improved the integrity of the mucosal barrier, and reversed microbial changes associated with obesity with an increase in Akkermansia muciniphila. Consistent with epidemiological studies, our experiments suggest that HFDs are likely to impair intestinal barrier function, particularly in early life, which partially involves direct effects of free-fatty acids on intestinal cells, and this can be reversed by IL-22 therapy.
Integrative Network-based Analysis of Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy and Genome Wide Expression in Glioblastoma multiforme
Authors: Heiland Dieter Henrik , Mader Irina , Schlosser Pascal , Pfeifer Dietmar , Carro Maria Stella , Lange Thomas , Schwarzwald Ralf , Vasilikos Ioannis , Urbach Horst , Weyerbrock Astrid
Published: June 2016

The goal of this study was to identify correlations between metabolites from proton MR spectroscopy and genetic pathway activity in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Twenty patients with primary GBM were analysed by short echo-time chemical shift imaging and genome-wide expression analyses. Weighed Gene Co-Expression Analysis was used for an integrative analysis of imaging and genetic data. N-acetylaspartate, normalised to the contralateral healthy side (nNAA), was significantly correlated to oligodendrocytic and neural development. For normalised creatine (nCr), a group with low nCr was linked to the mesenchymal subtype, while high nCr could be assigned to the proneural subtype. Moreover, clustering of normalised glutamine and glutamate (nGlx) revealed two groups, one with high nGlx being attributed to the neural subtype and one with low nGlx associated with the classical subtype. Hence, the metabolites nNAA, nCr and nGlx correlate with a specific gene expression pattern reflecting the previously described subtypes of GBM. Moreover high nNAA was associated with better clinical prognosis, whereas patients with lower nNAA revealed a shorter progression-free survival (PFS).
Next-generation sequencing-based molecular diagnosis of neonatal hypotonia in Chinese Population
Authors: Wang Yan , Peng Wei , Guo Hong-Yan , Li Hui , Tian Jie , Shi Yu-Jing , Yang Xiao , Yang Yao , Zhang Wan-Qiao , Liu Xin , Liu Guan-Nan , Deng Tao , Sun Yi-Min , Xing Wan-li , Cheng Jing , Feng Zhi-Chun
Published: June 2016

Neonatal hypotonia is extremely challenging to diagnose because numerous disorders present similar clinical manifestations. Two panels for diagnosing neonatal hypotonia were developed, which enriches 35 genes corresponding to 61 neonatal hypotonia-related disorders. A cohort of 214 neonates with hypotonia was recruited from 2012 to 2014 in China for this study. Of these subjects, twenty-eight neonates with hypotonia were eliminated according to exclusion criteria and 97 were confirmed using traditional detection methods. The clinical diagnoses of the remaining 89 neonates with hypotonia were approached by targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS). Among the 89 tested neonates, 25 potentially pathogenic variants in nine genes (RYR1, MECP2, MUT, CDKL5, MPZ, PMM2, MTM1, LAMA2 and DMPK) were identified in 22 patients. Six of these pathogenic variants were novel. Of the 186 neonates with hypotonia, we identified the genetic causes for 117 neonates by the traditional detection methods and targeted NGS, achieving a high solving rate of 62.9%. In addition, we found seven neonates with RETT syndrome carrying five mutations, thus expanding the mutation profiles in Chinese neonates with hypotonia. Our study highlights the utility of comprehensive molecular genetic testing, which provides the advantage of speed and diagnostic specificity without invasive procedures.
Disentangling the autism−anxiety overlap: fMRI of reward processing in a community-based longitudinal study
Authors: Mikita N , Simonoff E , Pine D S , Goodman R , Artiges E , Banaschewski T , Bokde A L , Bromberg U , Büchel C , Cattrell A , Conrod P J , Desrivières S , Flor H , Frouin V , Gallinat J , Garavan H , Heinz A , Ittermann B , Jurk S , Martinot J L , Paillère Martinot M L , Nees F , Papadopoulos Orfanos D , Paus T , Poustka L , Smolka M N , Walter H , Whelan R , Schumann G , Stringaris A
Published: June 2016

Up to 40% of youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) also suffer from anxiety, and this comorbidity is linked with significant functional impairment. However, the mechanisms of this overlap are poorly understood. We investigated the interplay between ASD traits and anxiety during reward processing, known to be affected in ASD, in a community sample of 1472 adolescents (mean age=14.4 years) who performed a modified monetary incentive delay task as part of the Imagen project. Blood-oxygen-level dependent (BOLD) responses to reward anticipation and feedback were compared using a 2x2 analysis of variance test (ASD traits: low/high; anxiety symptoms: low/high), controlling for plausible covariates. In addition, we used a longitudinal design to assess whether neural responses during reward processing predicted anxiety at 2-year follow-up. High ASD traits were associated with reduced BOLD responses in dorsal prefrontal regions during reward anticipation and negative feedback. Participants with high anxiety symptoms showed increased lateral prefrontal responses during anticipation, but decreased responses following feedback. Interaction effects revealed that youth with combined ASD traits and anxiety, relative to other youth, showed high right insula activation when anticipating reward, and low right-sided caudate, putamen, medial and lateral prefrontal activations during negative feedback (all clusters PFWE<0.05). BOLD activation patterns in the right dorsal cingulate and right medial frontal gyrus predicted new-onset anxiety in participants with high but not low ASD traits. Our results reveal both quantitatively enhanced and qualitatively distinct neural correlates underlying the comorbidity between ASD traits and anxiety. Specific neural responses during reward processing may represent a risk factor for developing anxiety in ASD youth.
Atopic diseases and inflammation of the brain in the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Theoharides T C , Tsilioni I , Patel A B , Doyle R
Published: June 2016

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) affect as many as 1 in 45 children and are characterized by deficits in sociability and communication, as well as stereotypic movements. Many children also show severe anxiety. The lack of distinct pathogenesis and reliable biomarkers hampers the development of effective treatments. As a result, most children with ASD are prescribed psychopharmacologic agents that do not address the core symptoms of ASD. Autoantibodies against brain epitopes in mothers of children with ASD and many such children strongly correlate with allergic symptoms and indicate an aberrant immune response, as well as disruption of the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Recent epidemiological studies have shown a strong statistical correlation between risk for ASD and either maternal or infantile atopic diseases, such as asthma, eczema, food allergies and food intolerance, all of which involve activation of mast cells (MCs). These unique tissue immune cells are located perivascularly in all tissues, including the thalamus and hypothalamus, which regulate emotions. MC-derived inflammatory and vasoactive mediators increase BBB permeability. Expression of the inflammatory molecules interleukin (IL-1β), IL-6, 1 L-17 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is increased in the brain, cerebrospinal fluid and serum of some patients with ASD, while NF-kB is activated in brain samples and stimulated peripheral blood immune cells of other patients; however, these molecules are not specific. Instead the peptide neurotensin is uniquely elevated in the serum of children with ASD, as is corticotropin-releasing hormone, secreted from the hypothalamus under stress. Both peptides trigger MC to release IL-6 and TNF, which in turn, stimulate microglia proliferation and activation, leading to disruption of neuronal connectivity. MC-derived IL-6 and TGFβ induce maturation of Th17 cells and MCs also secrete IL-17, which is increased in ASD. Serum IL-6 and TNF may define an ASD subgroup that benefits most from treatment with the natural flavonoid luteolin. Atopic diseases may create a phenotype susceptible to ASD and formulations targeting focal inflammation of the brain could have great promise in the treatment of ASD.
Application of Transcriptomics in Exposed Human Populations: Benzene as an Example
Authors: McHale Cliona M. , Smith Martyn T. , Zhang Luoping
Published: June 2016

Benzene is an industrial chemical and widespread environmental contaminant that causes acute myeloid leukemia and probably other hematological malignancies. Human exposure to benzene below the current occupational exposure limit of 1 ppm causes hematotoxicity and other effects. Transcriptomics can identify biomarkers of exposure and early effect, particularly at low levels of exposure, which can be used to inform risk assessment. The human transcriptome is complex, with multiple transcript types and additional variation such as alternative splicing, all aspects of which can potentially be dysregulated by environmental exposures. Here, we provide an overview of our recent transcriptomic approaches and findings in a population of Chinese workers occupationally exposed to benzene. We describe our application of microarrays, RNA-sequencing, and NanoString as well as future approaches such as the L1000/S1500 platforms. Using microarrays, we have identified a signature of benzene exposure and shown that leukemia-related gene and pathway expression is altered at very low levels of exposure. Using RNA-sequencing, we have identified alternative splicing as a potential mechanism of benzene toxicity and have explored the identification of fusion transcripts and non-human sequences. We discuss our findings in the context of platform choice, study design considerations and application in risk assessment.
Toxicogenomics Case Study: Furan
Authors: Webster A. Francina , Lambert Iain B. , Yauk Carole L.
Published: June 2016

Development of pragmatic methodologies for human health risk assessment is required to address current regulatory challenges. We applied three toxicogenomic approaches—quantitative, predictive, and mechanistic—to a case study in mice exposed for 3 weeks to the hepatocarcinogen furan. We modeled the dose response of a variety of transcriptional endpoints and found that they produced benchmark doses similar to the furan-dependent cancer benchmark doses. Meta-analyses showed strong similarity between furan-dependent gene expression changes and those associated with several hepatic pathologies. Molecular pathways facilitated the development of a molecular mode of action for furan-induced hepatocellular carcinogenicity. Finally, we compared transcriptomic profiles derived from formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples with those from high-quality frozen samples to evaluate whether archival samples are a viable option for toxicogenomic studies. The advantage of using FFPE tissues is that they are very well characterized (phenotypically); the disadvantage is that formalin degrades biomacromolecules, including RNA. We found that FFPE samples can be used for toxicogenomics using a ribo-depletion RNA-seq protocol. Our case study demonstrates the utility of toxicogenomics data to human health risk assessment, the potential of archival FFPE tissue samples, and identifies viable strategies toward the reduction of animal usage in chemical testing.
Bioinformatics of Genomics in the Assessment of Cancer
Authors: Bushel Pierre R.
Published: June 2016

The development of genomic technologies has revolutionized the war against cancer. Platforms such as DNA sequencing, microarrays, next-generation sequencing and genotyping have armed investigators with a host of tools to generate a wealth of biological data related to cancer biology. The bottleneck in predictive carcinogenicity is managing and analyzing the high-dimensional disparate data. Bioinformatics brings together the expertise to store, disseminate, amalgamate and analyze biological and genomics data in highly informative ways. This chapter provides a cursory look at a sample of bioinformatics and computational approaches for genomic data used to champion the assessment of cancer. In particular, attention is paid to strategies utilized for classification and prediction of cancer samples, means of elucidating pathways and gene network underpinnings in the etiology of cancer and analytic approaches to capitalize on the integration of genomic data.
Surface-enhanced Raman scattering activities of carbon nanotubes decorated with silver nanoparticles
Authors: Zhang Xiaolei , Zhang Jie , Quan Jiamin , Wang Ning , Zhu Yong
Published: June 2016

We synthesized a carbon nanotube (CNT) loaded with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) composite as an effective surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate via a low-cost, simple citrate reduction method.
Ligand-controlled stereodivergent 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of azomethine ylides with 3-methyl-4-nitro-5-styrylisoxazoles
Authors: Liu Kang , Xiong Yong , Wang Zuo-Fei , Tao Hai-Yan , Wang Chun-Jiang
Published: June 2016

An unprecedented Ag(i)-catalyzed ligand-controlled stereodivergent 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of azomethine ylides with 3-methyl-4-nitro-5-styrylisoxazoles has been developed to afford heterocycles bearing both methylisoxazole and pyrrolidine moieties.
Palladium–gold catalyst for the electrochemical reduction of CO2 to C1–C5 hydrocarbons
Authors: Kortlever R. , Peters I. , Balemans C. , Kas R. , Kwon Y. , Mul G. , Koper M. T. M.
Published: June 2016

Electrochemical reduction of CO2 on PdAu electrodes yields the production of C1–C5 hydrocarbons.
Well-defined, persistent, chiral phthalocyanine nanoclusters via G-quadruplex assembly
Authors: García-Iglesias Miguel , Torres Tomas , González-Rodríguez David
Published: June 2016

Monodisperse nanoclusters are produced via G-quadruplex assembly with potassium salts in which red-absorbing phthalocyanine dyes are arranged in a well-defined chiral organization.
Cluster-like molybdenum phosphide anchored on reduced graphene oxide for efficient hydrogen evolution over a broad pH range
Authors: Yan Haijing , Jiao Yanqing , Wu Aiping , Tian Chungui , Zhang Xiaomeng , Wang Lei , Ren Zhiyu , Fu Honggang
Published: June 2016

Cluster-like MoP particles were anchored on rGO with high uniformity, and exhibit superior electrocatalytic activity towards the HER.
AgNO3 as nitrogen source for rhodium(iii)-catalyzed synthesis of 2-aryl-2H-benzotriazoles from azobenzenes
Authors: Li Jixing , Zhou Hui , Zhang Jinlong , Yang Huameng , Jiang Gaoxi
Published: June 2016

A new approach has been established for Rh(iii)-catalyzed direct aza oxidative cyclization of non-prefunctionalized azobenzenes to provide 2-aryl-2H-benzotriazoles in good yields.
Crystal engineering urea organic acid hydrogen bonded networks with solvent inclusion properties
Authors: Saunders Lucy K. , Nowell Harriott , Raithby Paul R. , Wilson Chick C.
Published: June 2016

Eleven structurally similar materials based on hydrogen bonded networks of N-phenylurea and 5-nitroisophthalic acid have been engineered where nine have interesting solvent inclusion and guest release properties.
Electronic origin of the dependence of hydrogen bond strengths on nearest-neighbor and next-nearest-neighbor hydrogen bonds in polyhedral water clusters (H2O)n, n = 8, 20 and 24
Authors: Iwata Suehiro , Akase Dai , Aida Misako , Xantheas Sotiris S.
Published: June 2016

Comparison of the sum of the characteristic factors for some of the typical hydrogen donor and acceptor pairs with the CT term/kJ mol−1 (the upper value) and the O⋯O distance/in cubic (H2O)8.
CO chemisorption at vacancies of supported graphene films: a candidate for a sensor?
Authors: Celasco E. , Carraro G. , Lusuan A. , Smerieri M. , Pal J. , Rocca M. , Savio L. , Vattuone L.
Published: June 2016

We investigate CO adsorption at single vacancies of graphene supported on Ni(111) and polycrystalline Cu.
Ring-polymer molecular dynamical calculations for the F + HCl → HF + Cl reaction on the ground 12A′ potential energy surface
Authors: Bai Mengna , Lu Dandan , Li Yongle , Li Jun
Published: June 2016

RPMD rate coefficients are consistent with exact QM calculations, indicating that a reliable potential energy surface is desirable to reproduce experiment.
Structural transformation in monolayer materials: a 2D to 1D transformation
Authors: Momeni Kasra , Attariani Hamed , LeSar Richard A.
Published: June 2016

The excess energy of surface atoms along with the surface stresses can be the source of structural instabilities in low dimensional materials, which here we revealed the 2D to 1D transformation.
An active, stable and recyclable Ru(ii) tetraphosphine-based catalytic system for hydrogen production by selective formic acid dehydrogenation
Authors: Mellone Irene , Bertini Federica , Peruzzini Maurizio , Gonsalvi Luca
Published: June 2016

Efficient catalytic formic acid dehydrogenation was achieved with Ru(ii) complexes ofmeso-tetraphos-1 under batch and continuous feed conditions.
A selective fluorescent probe for the detection of Cd2+ in different buffer solutions and water
Authors: Xu Zheng , Li Guoqiang , Ren Yuan-Yuan , Huang Hua , Wen Xiaoping , Xu Qiang , Fan Xiaotian , Huang Zhao , Huang Junhai , Xu Lin
Published: June 2016

A fluorescent probe NHQ, which exhibited excellent selectivity toward Cd2+ in different buffer solutions such as Tris-HCl buffer solution, HEPES buffer solution, and PBS buffer solution, and even in water, was developed.
Charging single Co atoms on ultrathin NaCl films
Authors: Li Na , Wang Hao , Song Dao-Liang , Li Chao , Li Ruoning , Hou Shi-Min , Wang Yong-Feng , Berndt Richard
Published: June 2016

Single Co adatoms adsorbed on a double-layer NaCl film were negatively charged after applying a positive voltage pulse by STM.
Five different types of η8-cyclooctatetraenyl-lanthanide half-sandwich complexes from one ligand set, including a “giant neodymium wheel”
Authors: Sroor Farid M. , Hrib Cristian G. , Liebing Phil , Hilfert Liane , Busse Sabine , Edelmann Frank T.
Published: June 2016

Using one ligand set, five different types of η8-cyclooctatetraenyl-lanthanide half-sandwich complexes, including a “giant neodymium wheel”, have been prepared and structurally characterized.
Kefir reduces insulin resistance and inflammatory cytokine expression in an animal model of metabolic syndrome
Authors: Rosa Damiana D. , Grześkowiak Łukasz M. , Ferreira Célia L. L. F. , Fonseca Ana Carolina M. , Reis Sandra A. , Dias Mariana M. , Siqueira Nathane P. , Silva Leticia L. , Neves Clóvis A. , Oliveira Leandro L. , Machado Alessandra B. F. , Peluzio Maria do Carmo G.
Published: June 2016

Kefir supplementation in rats with induced metabolic syndrome was able to lower fasting glucose, fasting insulin levels, and reduce insulin resistance.