bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monitoring Integration over Time Supports a Role for Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes and Ongoing Replication as Determinants of Reservoir Size
Authors: Pinzone Marilia Rita , Graf Erin , Lynch Lindsay , McLaughlin Brigit , Hecht Frederick M. , Connors Mark , Migueles Stephen A. , Hwang Wei-Ting , Nunnari Giuseppe , O'Doherty Una
Published: September 2016

The dynamics of HIV reservoir accumulation off antiretroviral therapy (ART) is underexplored. Levels of integrated HIV DNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were longitudinally monitored before and after antiviral therapy. HIV integration increased over time in both elite controllers (ECs;
n
= 8) and noncontrollers (NCs;
n
= 6) before ART, whereas integration remained stable in patients on ART (
n
= 4). The median annual fold change was higher in NCs than in ECs and negatively correlated with CD4/CD8 T-cell ratio. Cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) function as assessed by infected CD4 T-cell elimination (ICE) and granzyme B activity did not significantly change over time in ECs, suggesting that the gradual increase in integrated HIV DNA observed in ECs was not a result of progressive loss of immune-mediated control. Also, acutely infected (
n
= 7) but not chronically infected (
n
= 6) patients exhibited a significant drop in integrated HIV DNA 12 months after ART initiation. In conclusion, in the absence of ART, integrated HIV accumulates over time both in NCs and in ECs, at variable individual rates. Starting ART early in infection leads to a greater drop in integrated HIV DNA than does initiating treatment after years of infection. The increase in integrated HIV DNA over time suggests that early treatment may be of benefit in limiting HIV reservoirs.

IMPORTANCE
The establishment of a latent reservoir represents a barrier to cure among HIV-infected individuals. The dynamics of HIV reservoir accumulation over time in patients before antiviral therapy is underexplored, in large part because it is difficult to accurately and reproducibly measure the size of HIV reservoir in this setting. In our study, we compared the dynamics of integrated HIV DNA over time in ECs and NCs before and after ART was initiated. We found that integrated HIV DNA levels progressively increase over time in the absence of ART, but with a higher, albeit variable, rate in NCs compared to ECs. In addition, integrated HIV DNA declines more dramatically when ART is initiated in acute rather than chronic HIV infection, suggesting important differences between acute and chronic infection. Our study highlights the role of HIV replication and CTL control in reservoir accumulation in sanctuary sites and why ART appears to be more effective in acute infection.
Herpes Simplex Virus 1 Induces Phosphorylation and Reorganization of Lamin A/C through the γ
1
34.5 Protein That Facilitates Nuclear Egress
Authors: Wu Songfang , Pan Shuang , Zhang Liming , Baines Joel , Roller Richard , Ames Joshua , Yang Mengmeng , Wang Jiyan , Chen Da , Liu Yaohui , Zhang Cuizhu , Cao Youjia , He Bin
Published: September 2016

Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) remodels nuclear membranes during virus egress. Although the UL31 and UL34 proteins control nucleocapsid transit in infected cells, the molecular interactions required for their function are unclear. Here we report that the γ
1
34.5 gene product of HSV-1 facilitates nucleocapsid release to the cytoplasm through bridging the UL31/UL34 complex, cellular p32, and protein kinase C. Unlike wild-type virus, an HSV mutant devoid of γ
1
34.5 or its amino terminus is crippled for viral growth and release. This is attributable to a defect in virus nuclear egress. In infected cells, wild-type virus recruits protein kinase C to the nuclear membrane and triggers its activation, whereas the γ
1
34.5 mutants fail to exert such an effect. Accordingly, the γ
1
34.5 mutants are unable to induce phosphorylation and reorganization of lamin A/C. When expressed in host cells γ
1
34.5 targets p32 and protein kinase C. Meanwhile, it communicates with the UL31/UL34 complex through UL31. Deletion of the amino terminus from γ
1
34.5 disrupts its activity. These results suggest that disintegration of the nuclear lamina mediated by γ
1
34.5 promotes HSV replication.

IMPORTANCE
HSV nuclear egress is a key step that determines the outcome of viral infection. While the nuclear egress complex mediates capsid transit across the nuclear membrane, the regulatory components are not clearly defined in virus-infected cells. We report that the γ
1
34.5 gene product, a virulence factor of HSV-1, facilitates nuclear egress cooperatively with cellular p32, protein kinase C, and the nuclear egress complex. This work highlights a viral mechanism that may contribute to the pathogenesis of HSV infection.
Dynamics and Correlates of CD8 T-Cell Counts in Africans with Primary Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Infection
Authors: Prentice Heather A. , Lu Hailin , Price Matthew A. , Kamali Anatoli , Karita Etienne , Lakhi Shabir , Sanders Eduard J. , Anzala Omu , Allen Susan , Goepfert Paul A. , Hunter Eric , Gilmour Jill , Tang Jianming
Published: September 2016

In individuals with HIV-1 infection, depletion of CD4
+
T cells is often accompanied by a malfunction of CD8
+
T cells that are persistently activated and/or exhausted. While the dynamics and correlates of CD4 counts have been well documented, the same does not apply to CD8 counts. Here, we examined the CD8 counts in a cohort of 497 Africans with primary HIV-1 infection evaluated in monthly to quarterly follow-up visits for up to 3 years in the absence of antiretroviral therapy. Statistical models revealed that (i) CD8 counts were relatively steady in the 3- to 36-month period of infection and similar between men and women; (ii) neither geography nor heterogeneity in the HIV-1 set-point viral load could account for the roughly 10-fold range of CD8 counts in the cohort (
P
> 0.25 in all tests); and (iii) factors independently associated with relatively high CD8 counts included demographics (age ≤ 40 years, adjusted
P
= 0.010) and several human leukocyte antigen class I (HLA-I) alleles, including HLA-A*03:01 (
P
= 0.013), B*15:10 (
P
= 0.007), and B*58:02 (
P
< 0.001). Multiple sensitivity analyses provided supporting evidence for these novel relationships. Overall, these findings suggest that factors associated with the CD8 count have little overlap with those previously reported for other HIV-1-related outcome measures, including viral load, CD4 count, and CD4/CD8 ratio.

IMPORTANCE
Longitudinal data from 497 HIV-1 seroconverters allowed us to systematically evaluate the dynamics and correlates of CD8
+
T-cell counts during untreated primary HIV-1 infection in eastern and southern Africans. Our findings suggest that individuals with certain HLA-I alleles, including A*03 (exclusively A*03:01), persistently maintain relatively high CD8 counts following HIV-1 infection, a finding which may offer an intriguing explanation for the recently reported, negative association of A*03 with HIV-1-specific, broadly neutralizing antibody responses. In future studies, attention to HLA-I genotyping data may benefit in-depth understanding of both cellular and humoral immunity, as well as the intrinsic balances of these types of immunity, especially in settings where there is emerging evidence of antagonism between the two arms of adaptive immunity.
Electroacupuncture Ameliorates Abnormal Defaecation and Regulates Corticotrophin-Releasing Factor in a Rat Model of Stress
Authors: Zhao Yuxue , Cui Changxiang , Yu Xiaochun , Xin Juanjuan , Lu Fengyan , Gao Junhong , Zhu Bing
Published: September 2016

Objective

To examine the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) treatment on abnormal defaecation in a rat model of chronic heterotypic stress (CHS) and investigate the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

20 male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups: normal (n=6), CHS (n=7), and CHS+EA (n=7). Rats in the CHS group and CHS+EA groups received four different types of stressors for 7 days. For rats in the CHS+EA group, EA was applied at ST36 in the bilateral hind legs for 30 min before each stress-loading session. Rats in the normal group did not receive stressors or EA treatment. The faecal pellets of each rat were collected and weighed at a fixed time every day. Protein expression of corticotrophin-releasing factor (CRF) in the hypothalamus and colorectal tissues was measured by Western blotting at the end of the experiment on the 7th day.

Results

After 7 consecutive days of CHS, the number of faecal pellets, faecal wet weight, and faecal water content were significantly increased in the CHS group compared with the normal group (p=0.035, p=0.008 and p=0.008, respectively). All three parameters were significantly decreased in CHS+EA versus CHS groups (p=0.030, p=0.011 and p=0.006, respectively). Stress significantly increased CRF expression in both the hypothalamus and colorectal tissues. The excessive CRF responses seen following CHS were significantly suppressed by EA treatment.

Conclusions

EA treatment can ameliorate stress loading induced abnormal defaecation in rats and decrease protein expression of CRF centrally (hypothalamus) and peripherally (colorectal tissues), suggesting a potentially therapeutic role for EA in stress-related responses.
Treatment of T cell lymphoma in dogs
Authors: Moore Antony S.
Published: September 2016

Overall, canine lymphoma remains one of the most chemotherapy‐responsive cancers in the dog. In addition to the stage and the substage of disease, T cell phenotype is the most consistently important prognostic factor. T cell lymphoma (TCL) in dogs is a heterogeneous disease; dogs with a separate entity of indolent TCL can have a considerably better prognosis than dogs with other forms of lymphoma, and indolent TCL may not always require immediate treatment. In contrast, high‐grade TCL is an aggressive disease, and when treated with CHOP‐based protocols, dogs with this high‐grade TCL have a complete remission rate as low as 40 per cent, relapse earlier and have shorter survival time than dogs with a comparable stage, high‐grade B cell lymphoma. This review describes the different disease entities that comprise canine TCL, discusses prognosis for each and treatment options that appear to give the best outcomes.
Making public health exciting
Authors: Prestmo Pia Gjertsen
Published: September 2016

As a resident in veterinary public health at Bristol, Pia Gjertsen Prestmo helps introduce final‐year students to ante‐ and postmortem inspection in the abattoir
Impact mechanisms of granular and viscous flows on rigid and flexible barriers
Authors: Ng C.W.W. , Song D. , Choi C.E. , Liu L.H.D. , Kwan J.S.H. , Koo R.C.H. , Pun W.K.
Published: September 2016

Structural countermeasures such as rigid and flexible barriers are commonly installed in mountainous regions to intercept mass-wasting processes. Without sufficient and reliable comparable physical data, the study of impact mechanisms remains difficult and not well understood. In this study, a newly developed flexible model barrier together with a rigid barrier are used to simulate either dry granular or viscous liquid impacts on these model barriers in a geotechnical centrifuge. The novel flexible barrier is made of four instrumented cables controlled by spring mechanisms to replicate a bilinear prototype loading response. Tests revealed that regardless of barrier type, both dry granular and viscous flows could have similar frontal dynamic impact coefficients around unity. Compared with the kinetic energy of flow mass (∼10 MJ), only 249 kJ of flexible barrier energy capacity was mobilized. This implies that debris-resisting barriers may only be required to intercept the dynamic flow front as the subsequent flow energy may mainly be dissipated through internal shearing. Attributing to the large deformation of the flexible barrier, the granular static load acting on the flexible barrier could be 39% lower than that on the rigid barrier, resulting in an active failure mode and a lower earth pressure.
Performance and carcass characteristics of cattle fed lipid sources in the diet
Authors: Lima Erico da Silva , Morais Jozivaldo Prudêncio Gomes de , Roça Roberto de Oliveira , Valente Tiago Neves Pereira , Andrade Ernani Nery de , Deminicis Bruno Borges
Published: September 2016

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of the inclusion of different lipid sources [whole cottonseed (CS) and protected fat in diets containing sugarcane, corn, citrus pulp, CS meal, and urea] on animal performance, hot carcass dressing (HCD), ribeye area (RA), fat thickness (FT), and postmortem pH of the meat of Nellore cattle during finishing. The treatments evaluated were feed with 2.50% CS (control diet, T1 treatment); feed with 11.50% CS (high CS, T2 treatment); and feed with 3.13% CS added of protected lipid (PL) (T3 treatment), all on a DM basis. The forage:concentrate ratio of the diet was 50:50. Thirty-nine intact steers with average initial body weight of 494 kg and 36 months old were confined for 63 d. The addition of lipid sources tested in this study did not affect dry matter intake, crude protein intake, neutral detergent fiber intake, final live weight, average daily weight gain, HCD, RA, FT, and meat pH. It was concluded that the addition of PLs in the diet did not affect weight gain and carcass characteristics.
Bee, hummingbird, or mixed-pollinated Salvia species mirror pathways to pollination optimization: a morphometric analysis based on the Pareto front concept
Authors: Strelin Marina M. , Sazatornil Federico , Benitez-Vieyra Santiago , Ordano Mariano
Published: September 2016

Optimization of flower phenotypes to ensure pollination by agents differing in their match with fertile flower structures can involve fitness trade-offs if the aspects of the phenotype that enhance the fitness contribution of one pollinator are detrimental for pollination by the other agents. If these trade-offs are substantial, flower optimization for specialized pollination is expected. However, optimization for generalized pollination may also take place in trade-off scenarios, as long as the joint contribution of two or more types of pollinators to global pollination fitness is greater than each individual contribution. We used an observational approach to evaluate the role of pollination fitness trade-offs in flower trait optimization, a matter seldom addressed because of the difficulties in conducting experiments. A pattern-searching tool based on the Pareto front concept, borrowed from the fields of economics and engineering, was used to test for fitness trade-off patterns in the flower shape of four Salvia (Lamiaceae) species. Two are pollinated exclusively either by bees or by hummingbirds; the remaining species have mixed-pollination systems, with varying contributions of bee and hummingbird pollination. The patterning of flower shape in this study suggests a bee–hummingbird pollination trade-off in Salvia, and the optimization of generalized flower shapes.
A modified growth function with interpretable parameters applied to the age–height relationship of individual trees
Authors: Fischer Christoph , Schönfelder Egbert
Published: September 2016

Growth functions frequently used in forestry have in common that among the model parameters to be estimated, only the asymptote is expressed in the dimensions of the input data. By contrast, parameters determining rate and shape of the curve often exhibit indefinite scales. This might cause problems in specifying adequate starting values and in parameter interpretation. We present a mathematical derivation to obtain a modified growth function based on the four-parameter Richards function. Two of the rate and shape parameters were replaced by new parameters directly related to the growth process: time of maximum growth and maximum growth rate. Both the original model and its modified form were fitted to individual-tree height–age data from the National Forest Inventory in Germany. The modified function has several advantages: (i) easier interpretability of model parameters, (ii) easier specification of starting values, (iii) improved linear behavior allowing for more reliable asymptotic inferences and for better convergence, and (iv) reduced correlation between model parameters. As a further benefit, the presented model allows for deriving biologically interpretable forms of the Gompertz function, the von Bertalanffy function, and the logistic function. Based on the results, we suggest using the modified function provided for further applications in growth modeling.
MAPK/AP-1-Targeted Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Xanthium strumarium
Authors: Hossen Muhammad Jahangir , Kim Mi-Yeon , Cho Jae Youl
Published: September 2016

Xanthium strumarium L. (Asteraceae), a traditional Chinese medicine, is prescribed to treat arthritis, bronchitis, and rhinitis. Although the plant has been used for many years, the mechanism by which it ameliorates various inflammatory diseases is not yet fully understood. To explore the anti-inflammatory mechanism of methanol extracts of X. strumarium (Xs-ME) and its therapeutic potential, we used lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated murine macrophage-like RAW264.7 cells and human monocyte-like U937 cells as well as a LPS/D-galactosamine (GalN)-induced acute hepatitis mouse model. To find the target inflammatory pathway, we used holistic immunoblotting analysis, reporter gene assays, and mRNA analysis. Xs-ME significantly suppressed the up-regulation of both the activator protein (AP)-1-mediated luciferase activity and the production of LPS-induced proinflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-1[Formula: see text], IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-[Formula: see text]. Moreover, Xs-ME strongly inhibited the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 and U937 cells. Additionally, these results highlighted the hepatoprotective and curative effects of Xs-ME in a mouse model of LPS/D-GalN-induced acute liver injury, as assessed by elevated serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and histological damage. Therefore, our results strongly suggest that the ethnopharmacological roles of Xs-ME in hepatitis and other inflammatory diseases might result from its inhibitory activities on the inflammatory signaling of MAPK and AP-1.
Ethanol Extract of Fructus ligustri lucidi Increased Circulating 1,25(OH)2D3Levels, but Did Not Improve Calcium Balance in Mature Ovariectomized Rats
Authors: Dong Xiao-Li , Cao Si-Si , Zhou Li-Ping , Denney Liya , Wong Man-Sau , Feng Hao-Tian
Published: September 2016

Our previous studies found that different extracts or fractions of Fructus ligustri lucidi (FLL) played different roles in altering the regulation of bone and mineral metabolism in different animal models. The present study was designed to compare the actions of FLL ethanol (EE) and water extracts (WE) on bone and mineral metabolism in a 6-month-old mature ovariectomized (OVX) rat model. Our results showed that FLL extracts did not significantly improve systematic Ca balance in mature OVX rats. However, EE, but not WE treatment, significantly increased serum 1,25(OH)2D3levels in mature OVX rats. An in vitro study using human proximal tubule (HKC-8) cells showed that EE, but not WE, significantly enhanced renal 25-dihydroxyvitamin D3-1[Formula: see text]-hydroxylase (1-OHase) mRNA expressions and simultaneously repressed renal 25-dihydroxyvitamin D3-24-hydroxylase (24-OHase) mRNA expressions. Further investigation indicated that EE could significantly induce the protein expression of 1-OHase, but did not alter 24-OHase expression in HKC-8 cells. Our results demonstrated that EE increased circulating 1,25(OH)2D3levels in OVX rats, possibly via upregulation of renal 1-OHase expressions in renal proximal tubule cells. Our study indicates that FLL is a natural oral agent that could directly regulate renal vitamin D metabolism in vivo and in vitro.
Configuration space method for calculating binding energies of exciton complexes in quasi-1D/2D semiconductors
Authors: Bondarev I. V.
Published: September 2016

A configuration space method is developed for binding energy calculations of the lowest energy exciton complexes (trion, biexciton) in spatially confined quasi-1D semiconductor nanostructures such as nanowires and nanotubes. Quite generally, trions are shown to have greater binding energy in strongly confined structures with small reduced electron–hole masses. Biexcitons have greater binding energy in less confined structures with large reduced electron–hole masses. This results in a universal crossover behavior, whereby trions become less stable than biexcitons as the transverse size of the quasi-1D nanostructure increases. The method is also capable of evaluating binding energies for electron–hole complexes in quasi-2D semiconductors such as coupled quantum wells and bilayer van der Walls bound heterostructures with advanced optoelectronic properties.
Effects of speed bottleneck on traffic flow with feedback control signal
Authors: Zhu Kangli , Bi Jiantao , Wu Jianjun , Li Shubin
Published: September 2016

Various car-following models (CMs) have been developed to capture the complex characteristics of microscopic traffic flow, among which the coupled map CM can better reveal and reflect various phenomena of practical traffic flow. Capacity change at bottleneck contributes to high-density traffic flow upstream the bottleneck and contains very complex dynamic behavior. In this paper, we analyze the effect of speed bottleneck on the spatial-temporal evolution characteristics of traffic flow, and propose a method to reduce traffic congestion with the feedback control signal based on CM. Simulation results highlight the potential of using the feedback signal to control the stop-and-go wave and furthermore to alleviate the traffic congestion effectively.
Graded integral domains whose nonzero homogeneous ideals are invertible
Authors: Anderson David F. , Chang Gyu Whan
Published: September 2016

Let [Formula: see text] be an integral domain graded by a nontrivial torsionless grading monoid [Formula: see text]. Among other things, we show that if [Formula: see text], then every nonzero homogeneous ideal of [Formula: see text] is invertible if and only if [Formula: see text] is a field and [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is an indeterminate over [Formula: see text], if and only if [Formula: see text] is a Dedekind domain, if and only if [Formula: see text] is a PID.
A TWO-FACTOR JUMP-DIFFUSION MODEL FOR PRICING CONVERTIBLE BONDS WITH DEFAULT RISK
Authors: COONJOBEHARRY RADHA KRISHN , TANGMAN DÉSIRÉ YANNICK , BHURUTH MUDDUN
Published: September 2016

The current literature on convertible bonds (CBs) comprises only models where the stock price and the interest rate are governed by pure-diffusion processes. This paper fills a gap by developing and implementing a two-factor model where both underlying factors follow jump-diffusion processes, and which also incorporates default risk. We derive the partial integro-differential equation satisfied by the CB price in our model, and solve it by a spectral method based on Chebyshev discretizations and Clenshaw–Curtis quadratures. The conversion, call, and put constraints give rise to a linear complementarity problem, which is solved by an operator-splitting (OS) method. Through numerical experiments, we investigate the effects that the various parameters have on the CB price. In particular, our numerical experiments show that jumps in the stock price have a significant impact on the CB price, while jumps in the interest rate tend to have a minor effect on the price. In general, the dynamics of the stock price have more impact in pricing the CB than the dynamics of the interest rate.
MOVEMENT MEASUREMENT VALIDITY AND RELIABILITY OF THE IMAGE J PROGRAM FOR KINEMATIC ANALYSIS
Authors: LEE JEONG J. , YOU JOSHUA H.
Published: September 2016

Background: While advanced motion analysis systems can provide accurate kinematic information, the majorities of motion analysis systems are stationary, expensive and time consuming. Image J is a Java-based image processing program that was originally developed at the National Institutes of Health and has rapidly gained widespread acceptance among rehabilitation specialists as a portable and affordable alternative motion analysis system. However, the validity and reliability of the Image J program have not been well established. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the validity and test–retest reliability of the Image J kinematic analysis system. The Image J kinematic analysis system is designed to produce precise kinematic evidence during normal and pathological static and dynamic movement patterns. Methods: The Image J motion analysis system was concurrently compared with the electrogoniometer system as a reference standard measure by obtaining sagittal kinematic knee joint angle data. Results: Image J motion analysis system measurement revealed outstanding validity ([Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]). The test–retest reliability for kinematic knee angle data showed remarkable consistency (Cronbach’s [Formula: see text]). Conclusions: This study provides the first evidence highlighting the Image J kinematic analysis system’s excellent validity and reliability for evaluating human kinematic movements in elderly people with hemiparetic stroke.
Mice lacking β-carotene-15,15’-dioxygenase exhibit reduced serum testosterone, prostatic androgen receptor signaling, and prostatic cellular proliferation
Authors: Smith Joshua W. , Ford Nikki A. , Thomas-Ahner Jennifer M. , Moran Nancy E. , Bolton Eric C. , Wallig Matthew A. , Clinton Steven K. , Erdman John W.
Published: September 2016

β-Carotene-15,15’-dioxygenase (BCO1) cleaves dietary carotenoids at the central 15,15’ double bond, most notably acting on β-carotene to yield retinal. However, Bco1 disruption also impacts diverse physiological end points independent of dietary carotenoid feeding, including expression of genes controlling androgen metabolism. Using the Bco1−/−mouse model, we sought to probe the effects of Bco1 disruption on testicular steroidogenesis, prostatic androgen signaling, and prostatic proliferation. Male wild-type (WT) and Bco1−/−mice were raised on carotenoid-free AIN-93G diets before euthanasia between 10 and 14 wk of age. Weights of the prostate and seminal vesicles were significantly lower in Bco1−/−than in WT mice (−18% and −29%, respectively). Serum testosterone levels in Bco1−/−mice were significantly reduced by 73%. Bco1 disruption significantly reduced Leydig cell number and decreased testicular mRNA expression of Hsd17b3, suggesting inhibition of testicular testosterone synthesis. Immunofluorescent staining of the androgen receptor (AR) in the dorsolateral prostate lobes of Bco1−/−mice revealed a decrease in AR nuclear localization. Analysis of prostatic morphology suggested decreases in gland size and secretion. These findings were supported by reduced expression of the proliferation marker Ki-67 in Bco1−/−prostates. Expression analysis of 200 prostate cancer- and androgen-related genes suggested that Bco1 loss significantly disrupted prostatic androgen receptor signaling, cell cycle progression, and proliferation. This is the first demonstration that Bco1 disruption lowers murine circulating testosterone levels and thereby reduces prostatic androgen receptor signaling and prostatic cellular proliferation, further supporting the role of this protein in processes more diverse than carotenoid cleavage.
MRI tools for assessment of microstructure and nephron function of the kidney
Authors: Xie Luke , Bennett Kevin M. , Liu Chunlei , Johnson G. Allan , Zhang Jeff Lei , Lee Vivian S.
Published: September 2016

MRI can provide excellent detail of renal structure and function. Recently, novel MR contrast mechanisms and imaging tools have been developed to evaluate microscopic kidney structures including the tubules and glomeruli. Quantitative MRI can assess local tubular function and is able to determine the concentrating mechanism of the kidney noninvasively in real time. Measuring single nephron function is now a near possibility. In parallel to advancing imaging techniques for kidney microstructure is a need to carefully understand the relationship between the local source of MRI contrast and the underlying physiological change. The development of these imaging markers can impact the accurate diagnosis and treatment of kidney disease. This study reviews the novel tools to examine kidney microstructure and local function and demonstrates the application of these methods in renal pathophysiology.
From Phytocannabinoids to Cannabinoid Receptors and Endocannabinoids: Pleiotropic Physiological and Pathological Roles Through Complex Pharmacology
Authors: Ligresti Alessia , De Petrocellis Luciano , Di Marzo Vincenzo
Published: September 2016

Apart from having been used and misused for at least four millennia for, among others, recreational and medicinal purposes, the cannabis plant and its most peculiar chemical components, the plant cannabinoids (phytocannabinoids), have the merit to have led humanity to discover one of the most intriguing and pleiotropic endogenous signaling systems, the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This review article aims to describe and critically discuss, in the most comprehensive possible manner, the multifaceted aspects of 1) the pharmacology and potential impact on mammalian physiology of all major phytocannabinoids, and not only of the most famous one Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, and 2) the adaptive pro-homeostatic physiological, or maladaptive pathological, roles of the ECS in mammalian cells, tissues, and organs. In doing so, we have respected the chronological order of the milestones of the millennial route from medicinal/recreational cannabis to the ECS and beyond, as it is now clear that some of the early steps in this long path, which were originally neglected, are becoming important again. The emerging picture is rather complex, but still supports the belief that more important discoveries on human physiology, and new therapies, might come in the future from new knowledge in this field.
Antioxidant‐Enhancing Property of the Polar Fraction of Mangosteen Pericarp Extract and Evaluation of Its Safety in Humans
Authors: Suthammarak Wichit , Numpraphrut Pornpayom , Charoensakdi Ratiya , Neungton Neelobol , Tunrungruangtavee Vachara , Jaisupa Nattapon , Charoensak Suwit , Moongkarndi Primchanien , Muangpaisan Weerasak
Published: September 2016

Crude extract from the pericarp of the mangosteen (mangosteen extract [ME]) has exhibited several medicinal properties in both animal models and human cell lines. Interestingly, the cytotoxic activities were always observed in nonpolar fraction of the extract whereas the potent antioxidant was often found in polar fraction. Although it has been demonstrated that the polar fraction of ME exhibited the antioxidant activity, the safety of the polar fraction of ME has never been thoroughly investigated in humans. In this study, we investigated the safety of oral administration of the polar fraction of ME in 11 healthy Thai volunteers. During a 24‐week period of the study, only minor and tolerable side effects were reported; no serious side effects were documented. Blood chemistry studies also showed no liver damage or kidney dysfunction in all subjects. We also demonstrated antioxidant property of the polar fraction of ME both in vitro and in vivo. Interestingly, oral administration of the polar fraction of ME enhanced the antioxidant capability of red blood cells and decreased oxidative damage to proteins within red blood cells and whole blood.
Slowly Delivered Icariin/Allogeneic Bone Marrow‐Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Promote the Healing of Calvarial Critical‐Size Bone Defects
Authors: Liu Tianlin , Zhang Xin , Luo Yuan , Huang Yuanliang , Wu Gang
Published: September 2016

Bone tissue engineering technique is a promising strategy to repair large‐volume bone defects. In this study, we developed a 3‐dimensional construct by combining icariin (a small‐molecule Chinese medicine), allogeneic bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), and a siliceous mesostructured cellular foams‐poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyhexanoate) (SMC‐PHBHHx) composite scaffold. We hypothesized that the slowly released icariin could significantly promote the efficacy of SMC‐PHBHHx/allogeneic BMSCs for repairing critical‐size bone defects in rats. In in vitro cellular experiments, icariin at optimal concentration (10−6 mol/L) could significantly upregulate the osteogenesis‐ and angiogenesis‐related genes and proteins, such as Runx2, ALP, osteocalcin, vascular endothelial growth factors, and fibroblast growth factors, as well as the mineralization of BMSCs. Icariin that was adsorbed onto the SMC‐PHBHHx scaffold showed a slow release profile within a 2‐week monitoring span. Eight weeks after implantation in calvarial critical‐size bone defects, the constructs with icariin were associated with significantly higher bone volume density, trabecular thickness, trabecular number, and significantly lower trabecular separation than the constructs without icariin. Histomorphometric analysis showed that icariin was also associated with a significantly higher density of newly formed blood vessels. These data suggested a promising application potential of the icariin/SMC‐PHBHHx/allogeneic BMSCs constructs for repairing large‐volume bone defects in clinic.
Identification and Characterization of Small Noncoding RNAs in Genome Sequences of the Edible FungusPleurotus ostreatus
Authors: Qu Jibin , Zhao Mengran , Hsiang Tom , Feng Xiaoxing , Zhang Jinxia , Huang Chenyang
Published: September 2016

Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been identified in many fungi. However, no genome-scale identification of ncRNAs has been inventoried for basidiomycetes. In this research, we detected 254 small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs) in a genome assembly of an isolate (CCEF00389) ofPleurotus ostreatus, which is a widely cultivated edible basidiomycetous fungus worldwide. The identified sncRNAs include snRNAs, snoRNAs, tRNAs, and miRNAs. SnRNA U1 was not found in CCEF00389 genome assembly and some other basidiomycetous genomes by BLASTn. This implies that if snRNA U1 of basidiomycetes exists, it has a sequence that varies significantly from other organisms. By analyzing the distribution of sncRNA loci, we found that snRNAs and most tRNAs (88.6%) were located in pseudo-UTR regions, while miRNAs are commonly found in introns. To analyze the evolutionary conservation of the sncRNAs inP. ostreatus, we aligned all 254 sncRNAs to the genome assemblies of some other Agaricomycotina fungi. The results suggest that most sncRNAs (77.56%) were highly conserved inP. ostreatus, and 20% were conserved in Agaricomycotina fungi. These findings indicate that most sncRNAs ofP. ostreatuswere not conserved across Agaricomycotina fungi.
Inserting Stress Analysis of Combined Hexagonal Aluminum Honeycombs
Authors: Li Xiangcheng , Li Kang , Lin Yuliang , Chen Rong , Lu Fangyun
Published: September 2016

Two kinds of hexagonal aluminum honeycombs are tested to study their out-of-plane crushing behavior. In the tests, honeycomb samples, including single hexagonal aluminum honeycomb (SHAH) samples and two stack-up combined hexagonal aluminum honeycombs (CHAH) samples, are compressed at a fixed quasistatic loading rate. The results show that the inserting process of CHAH can erase the initial peak stress that occurred in SHAH. Meanwhile, energy-absorbing property of combined honeycomb samples is more beneficial than the one of single honeycomb sample with the same thickness if the two types of honeycomb samples are completely crushed. Then, the applicability of the existing theoretical model for single hexagonal honeycomb is discussed, and an area equivalent method is proposed to calculate the crushing stress for nearly regular hexagonal honeycombs. Furthermore, a semiempirical formula is proposed to calculate the inserting plateau stress of two stack-up CHAH, in which structural parameters and mechanics properties of base material are concerned. The results show that the predicted stresses of three kinds of two stack-up combined honeycombs are in good agreement with the experimental data. Based on this study, stress-displacement curve of aluminum honeycombs can be designed in detail, which is very beneficial to optimize the energy-absorbing structures in engineering fields.
An Improved Performance Measurement Approach for Knowledge-Based Companies Using Kalman Filter Forecasting Method
Authors: Hasanzadeh Mohammad Reza , Shirani Behrooz Arbab , Raissi Ardali Gholam Ali
Published: September 2016

Performance measurement and forecasting are crucial for effective management of innovative projects in emerging knowledge-based companies. This study proposes an integrated performance assessment and forecasting model based on a combination of earned schedule methodology and the learning curve theory under risk condition. The operational performance is measured in terms of time and cost at completion indicators. As a novelty, the learning effects and Kalman filter forecasting method are employed to accurately estimate the future performance of the company. Furthermore, in order to predict the cost performance accurately, a logistic growth model is utilized. The validity of this integrated performance measurement model is demonstrated based on a case study. The computational results confirmed that the developed performance measurement framework provides, on average, more accurate forecast in terms of mean and standard deviation of the forecasting error for the future performance as against the traditional deterministic performance measurement methods.
Assessment of the Utility of the SeptalE/(E′×S′)Ratio and Tissue Doppler Index in Predicting Left Ventricular Remodeling after Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Kenar Tiryakioglu Selma , Ozkan Hakan , Ari Hasan , Yalin Kıvanc , Coskun Senol , Tiryakioglu Osman
Published: September 2016

Background. The aim of this study is to show whether the septalE/(E′×S′)ratio assessed by tissue Doppler echocardiography can predict left ventricular remodeling after first ST segment elevation myocardial infarction treated successfully with primary percutaneous intervention.Methods. Consecutive patients (n=111) presenting with acute anterior myocardial infarction for the first time in their life were enrolled. All patients underwent successful primary percutaneous coronary intervention. Standard and tissue Doppler echocardiography were performed in the first 24-36 hours of admission. Echocardiographic examination was repeated after 6 months to reassess left ventricular volumes. SeptalE/(E′×S′)ratio was assessed by pulsed Doppler echocardiography.Results. Group 1 consisted of 33 patients with left ventricular (LV) remodeling, and Group 2 had 78 patients without LV remodeling.E/(E′×S′)was significantly higher in Group 1 (4.1±1.9versus1.65±1.32,p=0.001). The optimal cutoff value forE/(E′×S′)ratio was 2.34 with 87.0% sensitivity and 82.1% specificity.Conclusion. SeptalE/(E′×S′)values measured after the acute anterior myocardial infarction can strongly predict LV remodeling in the 6-month follow-up. In the risk assessment, the septalE/(E′×S′)can be evaluated together with the conventional echocardiographic techniques.
Synthesis of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Using Isobutanol
Authors: Kostyukova Diana , Chung Yong Hee
Published: September 2016

Iron oxide nanoparticles were synthesized by precipitation in isobutanol with sodium hydroxide and ammonium hydroxide. The isobutanol played a role of a surfactant in the synthesis. The nanoparticles were calcined for 100 min to 5 hours in the range of 300 to 600°C. The characterization of the samples by FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared) and XRD (X-ray diffraction) confirmed the formation ofγ-Fe2O3(maghemite) from Fe3O4(magnetite) at calcination at 300°C. The morphology and particle size were studied by SEM (scanning electron microscope). Nanoparticles in the range of 11–22 nm prepared at 0.09 M of ferrous chloride exhibited superparamagnetic properties. Nanoparticles synthesized with ferrous chloride and ammonium hydroxide at 75°C and calcined at 530°C for 2 h wereα-Fe2O3(hematite).
Determinants of Antenatal Care Attendance among Pregnant Women Living in Endemic Malaria Settings: Experience from the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Nsibu Célestin Ndosimao , Manianga Célestin , Kapanga Serge , Mona Esther , Pululu Philippe , Aloni Michel Ntetani
Published: September 2016

Background. Antenatal care (ANC) attendance helps pregnant women to benefit from preventive and curative services.Methods. Determinants for ANC attendance were identified through a cross-sectional survey in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Sociocultural bottlenecks were assessed via focus groups discussion of married men and women.Results. In this survey, 28 of the 500 interviewed pregnant women (5.6%) did not attend ANC services and 82.4% booked over the first trimester. The first visit is positively influenced by the reproductive age (OR: 0.52, 95% CI(0.28–0.95),p<0.04), the educational level (OR: 0.41,95% CI(0.17–0.97),p<0.04), the nearby health center (OR: 0.43, 95% CI(0.2–0.92),p<0.03), and the presence of a male partner (OR: 10.48, 95% CI(2.1–52.23),p<0.001). The barriers to early booking were (i) the cost of service; (ii) the appearance or individual income; (iii) the geographical inaccessibility or distance to health facilities; (iv) social and religious prohibitions; (v) the stigmatization from other women when conceiving in the late ages or young or while still lactating (parity); (vi) the time for waiting for services.Conclusion. The early ANC attendance is delayed among poor women with little education and living alone.
Crystallization and Mechanical Properties of Polypropylene under Processing-Relevant Cooling Conditions with respect to Isothermal Holding Time
Authors: Fischer Christopher , Drummer Dietmar
Published: September 2016

For semicrystalline thermoplastics, aside from pressure and shear, the temperature-time behavior while cooling the melt significantly affects the geometry and degree of ordered structures (e.g., spherulite size, degree of crystallization, and crystal modification) and, as a consequence, the resulting global component properties. Previous research has shown that a higher isothermal holding temperature (e.g., mold temperature and chill-roll temperature) leads to the formation of more distinct ordered structures and, therefore, can lead to greater stiffness and strength. Nevertheless, isothermal holding time during manufacturing is typically not taken into account. In this paper, fast scanning calorimetry (FSC) measurements were taken using polypropylene to analyze the crystallization during idealized temperature-time profiles based on the dynamic temperature process and to investigate the crystallization behavior at different temperatures and isothermal holding times analytically. Furthermore, iPP foils were extruded and tested mechanically to investigate the knowledge gained experimentally. Analytical and mechanical results show that foils produced at the same isothermal holding temperature can obtain significantly different ordered structures and mechanical properties depending primarily on the isothermal holding time.
Personalized Kampo Medicine Facilitated Both Cytotoxic T Lymphocyte Response and Clinical Benefits Induced by Personalized Peptide Vaccination for Advanced Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Muroya Daisuke , Yutani Shigeru , Shichijo Shigeki , Yamada Akira , Sakamoto Shinjiro , Naito Masayasu , Okuda Koji , Morita Michi , Yamaguchi Rin , Itoh Kyogo
Published: September 2016

We retrospectively evaluated if personalized Kampo medicine (PKM) could facilitate CTL responses and clinical benefits induced by personalized peptide vaccination (PPV), in which HLA‐matched vaccines were selected and administered based on the preexisting host immunity, for advanced esophageal cancer (aEC) patients. Among 34 aEC patients entered in the clinical study, 23 patients received PKM and PPV without (n = 12) or with chemotherapy (n = 11), while the remaining 11 patients did not receive PKM but received PPV without (n = 6) or with chemotherapy (n = 5), respectively. Incidence of adverse events was significantly lower or higher in PKM and PPV arm (n = 23) or PPV and chemotherapy arm (n = 16) as compared to that of the counter arm (n = 11 or 18), respectively. Postvaccination PBMCs from the patients undergoing PKM and PPV showed significantly higher CTL responses as compared to the counter arm. The median progression‐free survival (PFS) or median survival time (MST) of 34 patients was 2.9 or 7.6 months, respectively. The combination therapy in PPV and PKM arm, but not that in PPV and chemotherapy arm, significantly (P = 0.02) prolonged MST. These results could warrant a next step of prospective clinical study of PKM and PPV for aEC patients.
Design of Tunnel Magnetoresistive-Based Circular MFL Sensor Array for the Detection of Flaws in Steel Wire Rope
Authors: Xiucheng Liu , Yujue Wang , Bin Wu , Zhen Gao , Cunfu He
Published: September 2016

Tunnel magnetoresistive (TMR) devices have superior performances in weak magnetic field detection. In this study, TMR devices were first employed to form a circular magnetic flux leakage (MFL) sensor for slight wire rope flaw detection. Two versions of this tailor-made circular TMR-based sensor array were presented for the inspection of wire ropes with the diameters of 14 mm and 40 mm, respectively. Helmholtz-like coils or a ferrite magnet-based magnetizer was selected to provide the proper magnetic field, in order to meet the technical requirements of the TMR devices. The coefficient of variance in the flaw detection performance of the sensor array elements was experimentally estimated at 4.05%. Both versions of the MFL sensor array were able to detect multiple single-broken wire flaws in the wire ropes. The accurate axial and circumferential positions of these broken wire flaws were estimated from the MFL scanning image results. In addition, the proposed TMR-based sensor array was applied to detect the MFL signal induced by slight surface wear defects. A mutual correlation analysis method was used to distinguish the signals caused by the lift-off fluctuation from the MFL scanning image results. The MFL sensor arrays presented in this study provide inspiration for the designing of tailor-made TMR-based circular sensor arrays for cylindrical ferromagnetic structural inspections.
Rate and Timing Effects of Growth Regulating Herbicides Applications on Grain Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) Growth and Yield
Authors: Besançon Thierry E. , Riar Ranjit , Heiniger Ronnie W. , Weisz Randy , Everman Wesley J.
Published: September 2016

Dicamba and 2,4-D are among the most common and inexpensive herbicides used to control broadleaf weeds. However, different studies have pointed the risk of crop injury and grain sorghum yield reduction with postemergence applications of 2,4-D. No research data on grain sorghum response to 2,4-D or dicamba exists in the Southeastern United States. Consequently, a study was conducted to investigate crop growth and yield response to 2,4-D (100, 220, and 330 g acid equivalent ha−1) and dicamba (280 g acid equivalent ha−1) applied on 20 to 65 cm tall sorghum. Greater stunting resulted from 2,4-D applied at 330 g acid equivalent ha−1or below 45 cm tall sorghum whereas lodging prevailed with 2,4-D at 330 g acid equivalent ha−1and dicamba applied beyond 35 cm tall crop. Regardless of local environmental conditions, 2,4-D applied up to 35 cm tall did not negatively impact grain yield. There was a trend for yields to be somewhat lower when 2,4-D was applied on 45 or 55 cm tall sorghum whereas application on 65 cm tall sorghum systematically decreased yields. More caution should be taken with dicamba since yield reduction has been reported as early as applications made on 35 cm tall sorghum for a potentially dicamba sensitive cultivar.