bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Smoking-Related Knowledge, Attitudes, Behaviors, Smoking Cessation Idea and Education Level among Young Adult Male Smokers in Chongqing, China
Authors: Xu Xianglong , Liu Lingli , Sharma Manoj , Zhao Yong
Published: February 2015

Introduction: In 2012 in China, 52.9% of men were reported to smoke while only 2.4% of women smoked. This study explored the smoking-related Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP) among young adult male smokers. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in four municipal areas of Chongqing using a questionnaire administered to 536 natives young male smokers aged 18–45 years old. Results: The total score of smoking cognition, the total score of smoking attitude and the total score of positive behavior to quit smoking was significantly different among the three groups by education. Besides, 30.97% of male smokers never seriously thought about quitting smoking. Logistic regression analysis found smoking-related knowledge, attitudes, behaviors and sociodemographic factors affect having smoking cessation idea. But no statistically significant correlation was observed between smoking cognition and positive behavior to quit smoking in a sample of higher education. No statistically significant correlation was observed between smoking cognition and positive behavior to quit smoking (Pearson correlation coefficient = 0.03012, p = 0.6811), and also no statistically significant correlation was observed between smoking cognition and positive behavior to quit smoking (Pearson correlation coefficient = 0.08869, p = 0.2364) in the sample of higher education young adult males Conclusions: Young adult males with higher education have a better knowledge of smoking hazards and a more positive attitude toward smoking, however, this knowledge and attitude do not necessarily translate into health behavioral outcomes such as not smoking. Overall the present findings indicate that no statistically significant correlation between the education level and quitting smoking idea exists among young adult male smokers in China. This survey gives a snapshot of the impact of education on smoking-related KAP among young adults male smokers.
Antimicrobial Resistance in Commensal Escherichia coli from Pigs during Metaphylactic Trimethoprim and Sulfamethoxazole Treatment and in the Post-Exposure Period
Authors: Mazurek Justyna , Bok Ewa , Stosik Michał , Baldy-Chudzik Katarzyna
Published: February 2015

The prevalence of trimethoprim (TMP) and sulfamethoxazole (SMX) resistance in commensal E. coli from pigs was tested in this study. E. coli was derived from three groups of piglets in successive stages of metaphylactic therapy and from two groups of sows 10 and 18 weeks after the treatment. MIC values of TMP and SMX were determined for a total of 352 strains. The presence of resistance genes (dfrA1, dfrA5, dfrA7, dfrA12, dfrA17, sul1, sul2, sul3) and class 1 and 2 integron-associated dfrA gene cassettes was tested. Resistance to TMP was very high during the administration of the antimicrobial (from 97 to 100%) and amounted to 86% and 69% in the post-exposure period; MIC > 32 mg/L. The isolates from all groups of pigs were resistant to sulfamethoxazole, with MIC > 1028 mg/L. The dfrA1 and sul1 genes (as part of integrons) dominated in E. coli from piglets, but the dfrA12 and sul1 genes were prevalent in E. coli from sows. Coexistence of the different dfrA genes was detected in 71 isolates from all groups of swine. Transcription analysis revealed that most of these genes were not transcribed, particularly gene cassettes of class 1 integrons. The research revealed a high level of resistance associated with the metaphylactic treatment, persistence and circulation of resistance in bacterial populations. Diverse genetic background with multiple and not transcribed resistance genes was observed.
Health-Related Quality of Life and Health Service Utilization in Chinese Rural-to-Urban Migrant Workers
Authors: Lu Chu-Hong , Luo Zhong-Cheng , Wang Jia-Ji , Zhong Jian-Hu , Wang Pei-Xi
Published: February 2015

Objectives: The number of rural-to-urban migrant workers has been increasing rapidly in China over recent decades, but there is a scarcity of data on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and health service utilization among Chinese rural-to-urban migrant workers in comparison to local urban residents. We aimed to address this question. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of 2315 rural-to-urban migrant workers and 2347 local urban residents in the Shenzhen-Dongguan economic zone (China) in 2013. Outcomes included HRQOL (measured by Health Survey Short Form 36) and health service utilization (self-reported). Results: Compared to local urban residents, rural-to-urban migrant workers had lower scores in all domains of HRQOL, and were more likely to report chronic illnesses (9.2% vs. 6.0%, adjusted OR = 1.62, 95% CI 1.28–2.04) and recent two-week morbidity (21.3% vs. 5.0%, adjusted OR = 5.41, 95% CI 4.26–6.88). Among individuals who reported sickness in the recent two weeks, migrant workers were much less likely to see a doctor (32.7% vs. 66.7%, adjusted OR = 0.21, 95% CI 0.13–0.36). Conclusions: Chinese rural-to-urban migrant workers have lower HRQOL, much more frequent morbidity, but are also much less likely to see a doctor in times of sickness as compared to local urban residents, indicating the existence of significant unmet medical care needs in this population.
Isolation and Molecular Characterization of 1-Aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic Acid Synthase Genes in Hevea brasiliensis
Authors: Zhu Jia-Hong , Xu Jing , Chang Wen-Jun , Zhang Zhi-Li
Published: February 2015

Ethylene is an important factor that stimulates Hevea brasiliensis to produce natural rubber. 1-Aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid synthase (ACS) is a rate-limiting enzyme in ethylene biosynthesis. However, knowledge of the ACS gene family of H. brasiliensis is limited. In this study, nine ACS-like genes were identified in H. brasiliensis. Sequence and phylogenetic analysis results confirmed that seven isozymes (HbACS1–7) of these nine ACS-like genes were similar to ACS isozymes with ACS activity in other plants. Expression analysis results showed that seven ACS genes were differentially expressed in roots, barks, flowers, and leaves of H. brasiliensis. However, no or low ACS gene expression was detected in the latex of H. brasiliensis. Moreover, seven genes were differentially up-regulated by ethylene treatment. These results provided relevant information to help determine the functions of the ACS gene in H. brasiliensis, particularly the functions in regulating ethylene stimulation of latex production.
Major Peptides from Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus) Protein Inhibit HMG-CoA Reductase Activity
Authors: Soares Rosana , Mendonça Simone , De Castro Luíla  Ívini , Menezes Amanda , Arêas José
Published: February 2015

The objective of this study was to identify the major peptides generated by the in vitro hydrolysis of Amaranthus cruentus protein and to verify the effect of these peptides on the activity of 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA reductase (HMG-CoA reductase), a key enzyme in cholesterol biosynthesis. A protein isolate was prepared, and an enzymatic hydrolysis that simulated the in vivo digestion of the protein was performed. After hydrolysis, the peptide mixture was filtered through a 3 kDa membrane. The peptide profile of this mixture was determined by reversed phase high performance chromatography (RP-HPLC), and the peptide identification was performed by LC-ESI MS/MS. Three major peptides under 3 kDa were detected, corresponding to more than 90% of the peptides of similar size produced by enzymatic hydrolysis. The sequences identified were GGV, IVG or LVG and VGVI or VGVL. These peptides had not yet been described for amaranth protein nor are they present in known sequences of amaranth grain protein, except LVG, which can be found in amaranth α‑amylase. Their ability to inhibit the activity of HMG-CoA reductase was determined, and we found that the sequences GGV, IVG, and VGVL, significantly inhibited this enzyme, suggesting a possible hypocholesterolemic effect.
The Role of BH3-Mimetic Drugs in the Treatment of Pediatric Hepatoblastoma
Authors: Lieber Justus , Armeanu-Ebinger Sorin , Fuchs Jörg
Published: February 2015

Pediatric hepatoblastoma (HB) is commonly treated by neoadjuvant chemotherapy and surgical tumor resection according to international multicenter trial protocols. Complete tumor resection is essential and survival rates up to 95% have now been achieved in those tumors classified as standard-risk HB. Drug resistance and occurrence of metastases remain the major challenges in the treatment of HB, especially in high-risk tumors. These conditions urgently require the development of alternative therapeutic strategies. One of those alternatives is the modulation of apoptosis in HB cells. HBs regularly overexpress anti-apoptotic proteins of the Bcl-family in comparison to healthy liver tissue. This fact may contribute to the development of chemoresistance of HB cells. Synthetic small inhibitory molecules with BH3-mimetic effects, such as ABT-737 and obatoclax, enhance the susceptibility of tumor cells to different cytotoxic drugs and thereby affect initiator proteins of the apoptosis cascade via the intrinsic pathway. Besides additive effects on HB cell viability when used in combination with cytotoxic drugs, BH3-mimetics also play a role in preventing metastasation by reducing adhesion and inhibiting cell migration abilities. Presumably, including additive BH3-mimetic drugs into existing therapeutic regimens in HB patients might allow dose reduction of established cytotoxic drugs and thereby associated immanent side effects, while maintaining the antitumor activity. Furthermore, reduction of tumor growth and inhibition of tumor cell dissemination may facilitate complete surgical tumor resection, which is mandatory in this tumor type resulting in improved survival rates in high-risk HB. Currently, there are phase I and phase II clinical trials in several cancer entities using this potential target. This paper reviews the available literature regarding the use of BH3-mimetic drugs as single agents or in combination with chemotherapy in various malignancies and focuses on results in HB cells.
Cultivation of Chlorella vulgaris and Arthrospira platensis with Recovered Phosphorus from Wastewater by Means of Zeolite Sorption
Authors: Markou Giorgos , Depraetere Orily , Vandamme Dries , Muylaert Koenraad
Published: February 2015

In this study, zeolite was employed for the separation and recovery of P from synthetic wastewater and its use as phosphorus (P) source for the cultivation of the green microalga Chlorella vulgaris and the cyanobacterium Arthrospira (Spirulina) platensis. At P-loaded zeolite concentration of 0.15–1 g/L, in which P was limited, the two species displayed quite different behavior regarding their growth and biomass composition. C. vulgaris preferred to increase the intracellular P and did not synthesize biomass, while A. platensis synthesized biomass keeping the intracellular P as low as possible. In addition under P limitation, C. vulgaris did display some little alteration of the biomass composition, while A. platensis did it significantly, accumulating carbohydrates around 70% from about 15%–20% (control). Both species could desorb P from zeolite biologically. A. platensis could recover over 65% and C. vulgaris 25% of the P bounded onto zeolite. When P-loaded zeolite concentration increased to 5 g/L, P was adequate to support growth for both species. Especially in the case of C. vulgaris, growth was stimulated from the presence of P-loaded zeolite and produced more biomass compared to the control.
Cellular Mechanisms of Drosophila Heart Morphogenesis
Authors: Vogler Georg , Bodmer Rolf
Published: February 2015

Many of the major discoveries in the fields of genetics and developmental biology have been made using the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster. With regard to heart development, the conserved network of core cardiac transcription factors that underlies cardiogenesis has been studied in great detail in the fly, and the importance of several signaling pathways that regulate heart morphogenesis, such as Slit/Robo, was first shown in the fly model. Recent technological advances have led to a large increase in the genomic data available from patients with congenital heart disease (CHD). This has highlighted a number of candidate genes and gene networks that are potentially involved in CHD. To validate genes and genetic interactions among candidate CHD-causing alleles and to better understand heart formation in general are major tasks. The specific limitations of the various cardiac model systems currently employed (mammalian and fish models) provide a niche for the fly model, despite its evolutionary distance to vertebrates and humans. Here, we review recent advances made using the Drosophila embryo that identify factors relevant for heart formation. These underline how this model organism still is invaluable for a better understanding of CHD.
Cleaning Effectiveness of Three NiTi Rotary Instruments: A Focus on Biomaterial Properties
Authors: Poggio Claudio , Dagna Alberto , Chiesa Marco , Beltrami Riccardo , Bianchi Stefano
Published: February 2015

Nickel-titanium (NiTi) instruments are commonly used for shaping the root canal system in endodontic practice. They are more flexible and have better cutting efficiency than conventional stainless steel files. The superelasticity of NiTi rotary files allows the clinicians to produce the desirable tapered root canal form with a reduced tendency to canal transportation and instrument fracture. HyFlex CM instruments are new NiTi rotary instruments with shape memory produced by an innovative methodology (patent pending) that uses a complex heating and cooling treatment that controls the material’s memory. The aim of the present study was to compare the cleaning efficacy of two conventional (Mtwo, Revo-S) Ni-Ti rotary instruments with HyFlex CM. 30 single-rooted freshly extracted teeth were divided into three groups. Root canals were shaped with three NiTi instruments (Mtwo, Revo-S and HyFlex CM) using 5.25% NaOCl and 17% EDTA solutions. Specimens were fractured longitudinally and prepared for SEM analysis at standard magnification of 1000×. The presence/absence of debris smear layer and the presence/absence of smear layer at coronal, middle, and apical third of each canal were evaluated using a 5-step scale for scores. Numeric data were analyzed using Kruskall-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U statistical tests and significance was predetermined at P < 0.05. This study revealed significant differences among the various groups. Despite some minor differences, all instruments removed smear layer and debris produced during instrumentation. HyFlex CM seem to be not so effective in promoting cleanliness of root canal walls and in removing smear layer from dentine if compared to Mtwo and Revo-S.
Saving More Teeth—A Case for Personalized Care
Authors: Vieira Alexandre , Hilands Katelyn , Braun Thomas
Published: February 2015

Background: Certain risk factors such as tobacco use, diabetes, genetic variations on the IL1 gene, and other inflammatory conditions are hypothesized to predict tooth loss in patients treated in a large medical center. Tooth loss trends are hypothesized to be greater in patients with more risk factors. Methods: DNA samples for 881 individuals were taken from the Dental Registry and DNA Repository at University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. Clinical data for all 4137 subjects in the registry were also available. SNP genotyping was performed on the samples for IL1α (rs1800587) and IL1β (rs1143634). IL1 positive status was determined as having one or more of the recessive alleles for either SNP. Tooth loss status was determined based on dental records and data gathered for age, sex, ethnicity, and self-reported medical history. Various statistical analyses were performed on the data including genetic association analysis by the PLINK software, chi-square, Mann-Whitney U, and ANOVA tests to determine significance. Results: Tooth loss averages increased with age by all risk factors (smoking, diabetes, hypertension, and interleukin genotypes; p = 4.07E-13) and by number of risk factors (p = 0.006). Increased tooth loss is associated with age and number of risk factors including diabetes, tobacco use, IL1+, and cardiovascular disease. Conclusion: These trends suggest that older patients and those with more risk factors should seek further preventive care to reduce future tooth loss.
Regulation of Genes Involved in Heterocyst Differentiation in the Cyanobacterium Anabaena sp. Strain PCC 7120 by a Group 2 Sigma Factor SigC
Authors: Ehira Shigeki , Miyazaki Shogo
Published: February 2015

The filamentous cyanobacterium Anabaena sp. strain PCC 7120 differentiates specialized cells for nitrogen fixation called heterocysts upon limitation of combined nitrogen in the medium. During heterocyst differentiation, expression of approximately 500 genes is upregulated with spatiotemporal regulation. In the present study, we investigated the functions of sigma factors of RNA polymerase in the regulation of heterocyst differentiation. The transcript levels of sigC, sigE, and sigG were increased during heterocyst differentiation, while expression of sigJ was downregulated. We carried out DNA microarray analysis to identify genes regulated by SigC, SigE, and SigG. It was indicated that SigC regulated the expression of genes involved in heterocyst differentiation and functions. Moreover, genes regulated by SigC partially overlapped with those regulated by SigE, and deficiency of SigC was likely to be compensated by SigE.
Enhanced Hydrophilicity and Biocompatibility of Dental Zirconia Ceramics by Oxygen Plasma Treatment
Authors: Wu Ching-Chou , Wei Chung-Kai , Ho Chia-Che , Ding Shinn-Jyh
Published: February 2015

Surface properties play a critical role in influencing cell responses to a biomaterial. The objectives of this study were (1) to characterize changes in surface properties of zirconia (ZrO2) ceramic after oxygen plasma treatment; and (2) to determine the effect of such changes on biological responses of human osteoblast-like cells (MG63). The results indicated that the surface morphology was not changed by oxygen plasma treatment. In contrast, oxygen plasma treatment to ZrO2 not only resulted in an increase in hydrophilicity, but also it retained surface hydrophilicity after 5-min treatment time. More importantly, surface properties of ZrO2 modified by oxygen plasma treatment were beneficial for cell growth, whereas the surface roughness of the materials did not have a significant efficacy. It is concluded that oxygen plasma treatment was certified to be effective in modifying the surface state of ZrO2 and has the potential in the creation and maintenance of hydrophilic surfaces and the enhancement of cell proliferation and differentiation.
Low Temperature Synthesis and Characterization of AlScMo3O12
Authors: Truitt Rebecca , Hermes Ilka , Main Alyssa , Sendecki Anne , Lind Cora
Published: February 2015

Recent interest in low and negative thermal expansion materials has led to significant research on compounds that exhibit this property, much of which has targeted the A2M3O12 family (A = trivalent cation, M = Mo, W). The expansion and phase transition behavior in this family can be tuned through the choice of the metals incorporated into the structure. An undesired phase transition to a monoclinic structure with large positive expansion can be suppressed in some solid solutions by substituting the A-site by a mixture of two cations. One such material, AlScMo3O12, was successfully synthesized using non-hydrolytic sol-gel chemistry. Depending on the reaction conditions, phase separation into Al2Mo3O12 and Sc2Mo3O12 or single-phase AlScMo3O12 could be obtained. Optimized conditions for the reproducible synthesis of stoichiometric, homogeneous AlScMo3O12 were established. High resolution synchrotron diffraction experiments were carried out to confirm whether samples were homogeneous and to estimate the Al:Sc ratio through Rietveld refinement and Vegard’s law. Single-phase samples were found to adopt the orthorhombic Sc2W3O12 structure at 100 to 460 K. In contrast to all previously-reported A2M3O12 compositions, AlScMo3O12 exhibited positive thermal expansion along all unit cell axes instead of contraction along one or two axes, with expansion coefficients (200–460 K) of αa = 1.7 × 10−6 K−1, αb = 6.2 × 10−6 K−1, αc = 2.9 × 10−6 K−1 and αV = 10.8 × 10−6 K−1, respectively.
The Effect of Different Non-Metallic Inclusions on the Machinability of Steels
Authors: Ånmark Niclas , Karasev Andrey , Jönsson Pär
Published: February 2015

Considerable research has been conducted over recent decades on the role of non‑metallic inclusions and their link to the machinability of different steels. The present work reviews the mechanisms of steel fractures during different mechanical machining operations and the behavior of various non-metallic inclusions in a cutting zone. More specifically, the effects of composition, size, number and morphology of inclusions on machinability factors (such as cutting tool wear, power consumption, etc.) are discussed and summarized. Finally, some methods for modification of non-metallic inclusions in the liquid steel are considered to obtain a desired balance between mechanical properties and machinability of various steel grades.
Fucoidan from Fucus vesiculosus Protects against Alcohol-Induced Liver Damage by Modulating Inflammatory Mediators in Mice and HepG2 Cells
Authors: Lim Jung , Lee Sung , Kim Taeseong , Jang Seon-A , Kang Se , Koo Hyun , Sohn Eunsoo , Bak Jong , Namkoong Seung , Kim Hyoung , Song In , Kim Nari , Sohn Eun-Hwa , Han Jin
Published: February 2015

Fucoidan is an l-fucose-enriched sulfated polysaccharide isolated from brown algae and marine invertebrates. In this study, we investigated the protective effect of fucoidan from Fucus vesiculosus on alcohol-induced murine liver damage. Liver injury was induced by oral administration of 25% alcohol with or without fucoidan (30 mg/kg or 60 mg/kg) for seven days. Alcohol administration increased serum aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase levels, but these increases were suppressed by the treatment of fucoidan. Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), a liver fibrosis-inducing factor, was highly expressed in the alcohol-fed group and human hepatoma HepG2 cell; however, the increase in TGF-β1 expression was reduced following fucoidan administration. Treatment with fucoidan was also found to significantly reduce the production of inflammation-promoting cyclooygenase-2 and nitric oxide, while markedly increasing the expression of the hepatoprotective enzyme, hemeoxygenase-1, on murine liver and HepG2 cells. Taken together, the antifibrotic and anti-inflammatory effects of fucoidan on alcohol-induced liver damage may provide valuable insights into developing new therapeutics or interventions.
Fish Oil N-3 Fatty Acids Increase Adiponectin and Decrease Leptin Levels in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Lozovoy Marcell , Simão Andréa , Morimoto Helena , Scavuzzi Bruna , Iriyoda Tathiana , Reiche Edna , Cecchini Rubens , Dichi Isaias
Published: February 2015

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) has emerged as an important cause of death in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Reduced adiponectin and elevated leptin levels may contribute to CVD in SLE patients. The purpose of this study was to verify the effects of fish oil (FO) on adiponectin and leptin in patients with SLE. Biochemical and disease activity analysis were performed. Patients with SLE were divided in two groups: patients who used fish oil for four months and patients who did not use fish oil. Patients with SLE who used FO had a significant decrease in SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI) score (p ˂ 0.023) in relation to baseline. SLE patients who used fish oil had increased adiponectin levels (p ˂ 0.026) and decreased leptin levels (p ˂ 0.024) compared to baseline values, whereas there were no differences in adiponectin and leptin levels in patients with SLE who did not use fish oil. In conclusion, the findings of increased serum adiponectin an decreased leptin levels after 120 days in the fish oil group, reinforce the importance of evaluating prospective studies of fish and fish oil fish ingestion on these adipokines in an attempt to decrease cardiovascular risk factors in patients with SLE.
Taxonomic and Environmental Variation of Metabolite Profiles in Marine Dinoflagellates of the Genus Symbiodinium
Authors: Klueter Anke , Crandall Jesse , Archer Frederick , Teece Mark , Coffroth Mary
Published: February 2015

Microorganisms in terrestrial and marine ecosystems are essential to environmental sustainability. In the marine environment, invertebrates often depend on metabolic cooperation with their endosymbionts. Coral reefs, one of the most important marine ecosystems, are based on the symbiosis between a broad diversity of dinoflagellates of the genus Symbiodinium and a wide phyletic diversity of hosts (i.e., cnidarian, molluscan, poriferan). This diversity is reflected in the ecology and physiology of the symbionts, yet the underlying biochemical mechanisms are still poorly understood. We examined metabolite profiles of four cultured species of Symbiodinium known to form viable symbioses with reef-building corals, S. microadriaticum (cp-type A194), S. minutum (cp-type B184), S. psygmophilum (cp-type B224) and S. trenchii (cp-type D206). Metabolite profiles were shown to differ among Symbiodinium species and were found to be affected by their physiological response to growth in different temperatures and light regimes. A combined Random Forests and Bayesian analysis revealed that the four Symbiodinium species examined primarily differed in their production of sterols and sugars, including a C29 stanol and the two sterols C28Δ5 and C28Δ5,22, as well as differences in metabolite abundances of a hexose and inositol. Inositol levels were also strongly affected by changes in temperature across all Symbiodinium species. Our results offer a detailed view of the metabolite profile characteristic of marine symbiotic dinoflagellates of the genus Symbiodinium, and identify patterns of metabolites related to several growth conditions.
Researching the Aluminum Nitride Etching Process for Application in MEMS Resonators
Authors: Yang Jian , Si Chaowei , Han Guowei , Zhang Meng , Ma Liuhong , Zhao Yongmei , Ning Jin
Published: February 2015

We investigated the aluminum nitride etching process for MEMS resonators. The process is based on Cl2/BCl3/Ar gas chemistry in inductively coupled plasma system. The hard mask of SiO2 is used. The etching rate, selectivity, sidewall angle, bottom surface roughness and microtrench are studied as a function of the gas flow rate, bias power and chamber pressure. The relations among those parameters are reported and theoretical analyses are given. By optimizing the etching parameters, the bottom surface roughness of 1.98 nm and the sidewall angle of 83° were achieved. This etching process can meet the manufacturing requirements of aluminum nitride MEMS resonator.
Design, Synthesis, and Cytotoxicity of Perbutyrylated Glycosides of 4β-Triazolopodophyllotoxin Derivatives
Authors: Zi Cheng-Ting , Liu Zhen-Hua , Li Gen-Tao , Li Yan , Zhou Jun , Ding Zhong-Tao , Hu Jiang-Miao , Jiang Zi-Hua
Published: February 2015

A series of novel perbutyrylated glycosides of 4β-triazolopodophyllotoxin derivatives were synthesized by utilizing the copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) reaction. Evaluation of cytotoxicity against a panel of five human cancer cell lines (HL-60, SMMC-7721, A-549, MCF-7, SW480) using the MTT assay shows that some of these glycosylated derivatives have good anticancer activity. Among the synthesized compounds, compound 21a shows the highest activity, with IC50 values ranging from 0.49 to 6.70 μM, which is more potent than the control drugs etoposide and cisplatin. Compound 21a is characterized by a perbutyrylated α-D(+)-galactosyl residue, the absence of an additional linking spacer between the sugar residue and the triazole ring, as well as a 4'-OH group on the E ring of the podophyllotoxin scaffold.
Prevention of Protein Glycation by Natural Compounds
Authors: Sadowska-Bartosz Izabela , Bartosz Grzegorz
Published: February 2015

Non-enzymatic protein glycosylation (glycation) contributes to many diseases and aging of organisms. It can be expected that inhibition of glycation may prolong the lifespan. The search for inhibitors of glycation, mainly using in vitro models, has identified natural compounds able to prevent glycation, especially polyphenols and other natural antioxidants. Extrapolation of results of in vitro studies on the in vivo situation is not straightforward due to differences in the conditions and mechanism of glycation, and bioavailability problems. Nevertheless, available data allow to postulate that enrichment of diet in natural anti-glycating agents may attenuate glycation and, in consequence, ageing.
Lactones with Methylcyclohexane Systems Obtained by Chemical and Microbiological Methods and Their Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Grabarczyk Małgorzata , Wińska Katarzyna , Mączka Wanda , Żołnierczyk Anna , Żarowska Barbara , Anioł Mirosław
Published: February 2015

Eight new lactones (δ-chloro-, δ-bromo- and δ-iodo-γ-lactones), each with a methylcyclohexane ring, were obtained by chemical means from (4-methylcyclohex-2-en-1-yl) acetic acid or (6-methylcyclohex-2-en-1-yl) acetic acid. Whole cells of ten fungal strains (Fusarium species, Syncephalastrum racemosum and Botrytis cinerea) were tested on their ability to convert these lactones into other products. Some of the tested fungal strains transformed chloro-, bromo- and iodolactone with a methyl group at C-5 into 2-hydroxy-5-methyl-9-oxabicyclo[4.3.0]nonan-8-one during hydrolytic dehalogenation. When the same lactones had the methyl group at C-3, no structural modifications of halolactones were observed. In most cases, the optical purity of the product was low or medium, with the highest rate for chlorolactone (45.4%) and iodolactone (45.2% and 47.6%). All of the obtained compounds were tested with reference to their smell. Seven halolactones and the hydroxylactone obtained via biotransformation of halolactones with 5-methylcyclohexane ring were examined for their antimicrobial activity. These compounds were capable of inhibiting growth of some bacteria, yeasts and fungi.
Cell Wall Metabolism in Response to Abiotic Stress
Authors: Le Gall Hyacinthe , Philippe Florian , Domon Jean-Marc , Gillet Françoise , Pelloux Jérôme , Rayon Catherine
Published: February 2015

This review focuses on the responses of the plant cell wall to several abiotic stresses including drought, flooding, heat, cold, salt, heavy metals, light, and air pollutants. The effects of stress on cell wall metabolism are discussed at the physiological (morphogenic), transcriptomic, proteomic and biochemical levels. The analysis of a large set of data shows that the plant response is highly complex. The overall effects of most abiotic stress are often dependent on the plant species, the genotype, the age of the plant, the timing of the stress application, and the intensity of this stress. This shows the difficulty of identifying a common pattern of stress response in cell wall architecture that could enable adaptation and/or resistance to abiotic stress. However, in most cases, two main mechanisms can be highlighted: (i) an increased level in xyloglucan endotransglucosylase/hydrolase (XTH) and expansin proteins, associated with an increase in the degree of rhamnogalacturonan I branching that maintains cell wall plasticity and (ii) an increased cell wall thickening by reinforcement of the secondary wall with hemicellulose and lignin deposition. Taken together, these results show the need to undertake large-scale analyses, using multidisciplinary approaches, to unravel the consequences of stress on the cell wall. This will help identify the key components that could be targeted to improve biomass production under stress conditions.
Aerial Thermography for Energetic Modelling of Cities
Authors: Bitelli Gabriele , Conte Paolo , Csoknyai Tamas , Franci Francesca , Girelli Valentina , Mandanici Emanuele
Published: February 2015

The rising attention to energy consumption problems is renewing interest in the applications of thermal remote sensing in urban areas. The research presented here aims to test a methodology to retrieve information about roof surface temperature by means of a high resolution orthomosaic of airborne thermal infrared images, based on a case study acquired over Bologna (Italy). The ultimate aim of such work is obtaining datasets useful to support, in a GIS environment, the decision makers in developing adequate strategies to reduce energy consumption and CO2 emission. In the processing proposed, the computing of radiometric quantities related to the atmosphere was performed by the Modtran 5 radiative transfer code, while an object-oriented supervised classification was applied on a WorldView-2 multispectral image, together with a high-resolution digital surface model (DSM), to distinguish among the major roofing material types and to model the effects of the emissivity. The emissivity values were derived from literature data, except for some roofing materials, which were measured during ad hoc surveys, by means of a thermal camera and a contact probe. These preliminary results demonstrate the high sensitivity of the model to the variability of the surface emissivity and of the atmospheric parameters, especially transmittance and upwelling radiance.
Proposal of a Sustainability Index for the Automotive Industry
Authors: Salvado Miguel , Azevedo Susana , Matias João , Ferreira Luís
Published: February 2015

In a scenario of increasing globalization, sustainable development has emerged as an attractive and strategic issue for both countries and individual organizations and their supply chains. Companies have faced different challenges in seeking to combine the best economic performance with increased social and environmental responsibility. Monitoring sustainability is essential for decision-making and management of activities that comprise an organization’s system processes. Evaluation can be performed using indices or a set of indicators. In addition to increasing organizational effectiveness and improving competitiveness, customer service and profitability, it is also a crucial influence on the development of business sustainability. This paper proposes a sustainability index that provides companies with information about their level of economic, social and environmental sustainability, showing their performance at both individual and supply chain level. The importance of the indicators is assessed by using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) methodology applied to a case study of a supply chain in the automotive industry. The various stages experienced during the construction of the index are also shown. The final results achieved are then presented and discussed in light of the objectives.
A Study on Project Duration Incentives in a Retail Apparel Franchise
Authors: Peng Yichen , Zhou Jing , Wu Xiaoling
Published: February 2015

This paper studies the impact on project duration of different forms of over-confidence among general contractors executing such projects, in the context of retail apparel franchises. It goes on to consider the design of relevant incentives and, in particular, a compensation mechanism included in the initial contract that covers the event of contractor dismissal. This mechanism is examined as a means of hedging risk arising from the behavior of the principal. This includes a study of a two-way risk avoidance strategy, which is intended to make up for a shortfall in this regard in the existing literature. Outcomes derived from this research include the conclusion that different levels of confidence can have various impacts on optimal incentive coefficients and the effort level extracted from agents, thereby affecting the ultimate configuration of an optimal contract. Introducing a compensation mechanism covering the event of dismissal can serve to diminish the risk of an agent breaching their contract. This paper applies the concept of bounded rationality to a principal-agent model, ensuring conclusions that are attuned to reality.
Altered Gene Expression Profiles of Wheat Genotypes against Fusarium Head Blight
Authors: Kosaka Ayumi , Manickavelu Alagu , Kajihara Daniela , Nakagawa Hiroyuki , Ban Tomohiro
Published: February 2015

Fusarium graminearum is responsible for Fusarium head blight (FHB), which is a destructive disease of wheat that makes its quality unsuitable for end use. To understand the temporal molecular response against this pathogen, microarray gene expression analysis was carried out at two time points on three wheat genotypes, the spikes of which were infected by Fusarium graminearum. The greatest number of genes was upregulated in Nobeokabouzu-komugi followed by Sumai 3, whereas the minimum expression in Gamenya was at three days after inoculation (dai). In Nobeokabouzu-komugi, high expression of detoxification genes, such as multidrug-resistant protein, multidrug resistance-associated protein, UDP-glycosyltransferase and ABC transporters, in addition to systemic defense-related genes, were identified at the early stage of infection. This early response of the highly-resistant genotype implies a different resistance response from the other resistant genotype, Sumai 3, primarily containing local defense-related genes, such as cell wall defense genes. In Gamenya, the expression of all three functional groups was minimal. The differences in these molecular responses with respect to the time points confirmed the variation in the genotypes. For the first time, we report the nature of gene expression in the FHB-highly resistant cv. Nobeokabouzu-komugi during the disease establishment stage and the possible underlying molecular response.
Poxviral Ankyrin Proteins
Authors: Herbert Michael , Squire Christopher , Mercer Andrew
Published: February 2015

Multiple repeats of the ankyrin motif (ANK) are ubiquitous throughout the kingdoms of life but are absent from most viruses. The main exception to this is the poxvirus family, and specifically the chordopoxviruses, with ANK repeat proteins present in all but three species from separate genera. The poxviral ANK repeat proteins belong to distinct orthologue groups spread over different species, and align well with the phylogeny of their genera. This distribution throughout the chordopoxviruses indicates these proteins were present in an ancestral vertebrate poxvirus, and have since undergone numerous duplication events. Most poxviral ANK repeat proteins contain an unusual topology of multiple ANK motifs starting at the N-terminus with a C-terminal poxviral homologue of the cellular F-box enabling interaction with the cellular SCF ubiquitin ligase complex. The subtle variations between ANK repeat proteins of individual poxviruses suggest an array of different substrates may be bound by these protein-protein interaction domains and, via the F-box, potentially directed to cellular ubiquitination pathways and possible degradation. Known interaction partners of several of these proteins indicate that the NF-κB coordinated anti-viral response is a key target, whilst some poxviral ANK repeat domains also have an F-box independent affect on viral host-range.
eIF4E as a Control Target for Viruses
Authors: Montero Hilda , García-Román Rebeca , Mora Silvia
Published: February 2015

Translation is a complex process involving diverse cellular proteins, including the translation initiation factor eIF4E, which has been shown to be a protein that is a point for translational regulation. Viruses require components from the host cell to complete their replication cycles. Various studies show how eIF4E and its regulatory cellular proteins are manipulated during viral infections. Interestingly, viral action mechanisms in eIF4E are diverse and have an impact not only on viral protein synthesis, but also on other aspects that are important for the replication cycle, such as the proliferation of infected cells and stimulation of viral reactivation. This review shows how some viruses use eIF4E and its regulatory proteins for their own benefit in order to spread themselves.
Aptamers in Diagnostics and Treatment of Viral Infections
Authors: Wandtke Tomasz , Woźniak Joanna , Kopiński Piotr
Published: February 2015

Aptamers are in vitro selected DNA or RNA molecules that are capable of binding a wide range of nucleic and non-nucleic acid molecules with high affinity and specificity. They have been conducted through the process known as SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment). It serves to reach specificity and considerable affinity to target molecules, including those of viral origin, both proteins and nucleic acids. Properties of aptamers allow detecting virus infected cells or viruses themselves and make them competitive to monoclonal antibodies. Specific aptamers can be used to interfere in each stage of the viral replication cycle and also inhibit its penetration into cells. Many current studies have reported possible application of aptamers as a treatment or diagnostic tool in viral infections, e.g., HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), HBV (Hepatitis B Virus), HCV (Hepatitis C Virus), SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome), H5N1 avian influenza and recently spread Ebola. This review presents current developments of using aptamers in the diagnostics and treatment of viral diseases.
Bioinformatics Tools for Small Genomes, Such as Hepatitis B Virus
Authors: Bell Trevor , Kramvis Anna
Published: February 2015

DNA sequence analysis is undertaken in many biological research laboratories. The workflow consists of several steps involving the bioinformatic processing of biological data. We have developed a suite of web-based online bioinformatic tools to assist with processing, analysis and curation of DNA sequence data. Most of these tools are genome-agnostic, with two tools specifically designed for hepatitis B virus sequence data. Tools in the suite are able to process sequence data from Sanger sequencing, ultra-deep amplicon resequencing (pyrosequencing) and chromatograph (trace files), as appropriate. The tools are available online at no cost and are aimed at researchers without specialist technical computer knowledge.

The tools can be accessed at http://hvdr.bioinf.wits.ac.za/SmallGenomeTools, and the source code is available online at https://github.com/DrTrevorBell/SmallGenomeTools.
Éboulis et glaciers rocheux(Talus and rock-glaciers)
Authors: Jorda Maurice
Published: February 2015

On examine les relations spatiales, temporelles et génétiques entre les éboulis ou formations de pente à blocailles structurées et les glaciers rocheux, ainsi que la signification paléoclimatique et paléomorphologique de l'environnement des glaciers rocheux hérités.
Le massif du Dedegöl Dag (Taurus occidental, Turquie). Recherches de géomorphologie glaciaire et karstique(The massif of Dedegöl Dag, Western Taurus, Turkey. Researches of glacial and karst geomorphology)
Authors: Delanoy J.-J. , Maire R.
Published: February 2015

The Dedegöl Dag is the higher massif of Western Taurus. These mountains are fashioned in thick limestones (Trias) and are characterized by a wet sub-mediterranean climate of high altitude (P = 1 500 mm/year). The glacial phenomena (relic glaciers, rock glaciers...) and the karst phenomena (high alpine karst above 2 000 m) are analysed. The big underground system of Pinargozü is considered. Finaliy, the problem of pre-würmian deposits and old karst landforms (climatic breccias, old moraines trapped in the karst) is approached.
Le djebel Akhdar (Cyrénaïque, Libye) : évolution morphostructurale.(The djebel Akhdar-Libya : morphostructural evolution)
Authors: Bousquet Bernard , Péchoux Pierre-Yves
Published: February 2015

Description and interpretation of the djebel Akhdar 's relief because of the gradual break of the plio-quaternary subduction during the translation Africa-Europa.
Les tendances actuelles des stratégies internationales dans le monde des transports (Present tendencies for international strategies in the world of transportation)
Authors: Wackermann Gabriel
Published: February 2015

Zusammenfassung. - Die derzeitigen internationalen Verkehrsstrategien sind stark durch den technologischen Wandel bedingt, welcher die neuen Handels-beziehungstypen hervorruft oder begleitet. Die politischen Verflechtungen sind zahlreich ; die Staaten wirken oft ein. Die grossen Finanzmetropolen und die wichtigen Dienstleistungsraume spielen jedoch eine entscheidende Rolle.
Le comportement des entreprises industrielles et leurs stratégies vis-à-vis des transports internationaux (The behaviour of the industrial firms and their strategies, with respect to the international transportation)
Authors: Dezert Bernard
Published: February 2015

Abstract. - The industrial activities need growing of international trades often since the oil crisis. The transport occurs more and more in the cost manufacturer's price and in the competition between the firms. The factories must be able to count on a good serve of international transportation. The most of them call to a double system of transport upstream and downstream of fabrications and license such network, either in function of weight or product's cost or also in function of transport's time, of delays of transhipment and custom examination. A very important part is playing from now on the industrial zones in the neighbouring of international airports and seaports with the establishing of intermodal middle and great distance's networks. The optimal solution is to implant the new works in front of the great international axes (roads and railways) or near the focus of flows. The Third-World countries want to realize the direct connection from ship and from train to the work. The geographical results are considerable in the world.
L'influence militaire sur le tracé des voies ferrées et sur la localisation des gares (The military influence on localization of railways and stations in France)
Authors: Reitel François
Published: February 2015

Zusammenfassung. - Die Militarisierung der französischen Städte war ein Hindernis fur die städtische und industrielle Entwicklung. Somit konnte das Stadt-gefüge die industrielle Revolution nicht begleiten wie dies der Fall war in Grossbritannien, in den Vereinigten Staaten und in Deutschland. Der Fall der Errichtung der Eisenbahnlinie Paris-Strasbourg und der Lage im französischen Nordosten konkretisiert diese Situation.
Le renouveau de la géographie politique (A growing again interest for political geography)
Authors: Claval Paul
Published: February 2015

Abstract. - Political geography was built to answer problems of the time much more than as a fundamental part of general human geography. Interest is now growing again for this discipline, due partly to the energy crisis and to the new weapon race. But the change is deeper : by looking at the spatial properties of power relations, geographers have built a theoretical frame comprehensive enough to relate the many orientations of the field.
L'économie agricole des Dayak du centre de Kalimantan (Bornéo, Indonésie) (The agriculture of the Dayak, in the center of Kalimantan - Borneo, Indonesia)
Authors: Sevin Olivier
Published: February 2015

Résumé. - Acculturés depuis longtemps et frottés aux échanges, les Ngaju ont su profiter de l'ouverture de l'île de Bornéo au commerce dès la fin du siècle dernier. Sans rien renier des techniques agricoles qui les rattachent à la communauté dayak, ils en ont altéré les finalités et ont valorisé un milieu naturel peu attractif en articulant une agriculture de subsistance et une agriculture commerciale.
Quelques remarques concernant les anomalies pluviométriques (Some remarks about rainfall anomalies)
Authors: Dorize Lucien
Published: February 2015

Abstract. - Rainfall is connected with some various atmospheric factors (thermic, dynamic, physico-chemical factors...) wich explain its large variability in space and time. The notion of «anomaly» is interpreted as a standard-deviation. Strong rainfall anomalies appear as meridian strips in the middle latitudes, and present rather a zonal character in tropical areas.