bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transient Free Convective MHD Flow Past an Exponentially Accelerated Vertical Porous Plate with Variable Temperature through a Porous Medium
Authors: Paul Ashish
Published: January 2017

This paper is concerned with analytical solution of one-dimensional unsteady laminar boundary layer MHD flow of a viscous incompressible fluid past an exponentially accelerated infinite vertical plate in presence of transverse magnetic field. The vertical plate and the medium of flow are considered to be porous. The fluid is assumed to be optically thin and the magnetic Reynolds number is considered small enough to neglect the induced hydromagnetic effects. The governing boundary layer equations are first converted to dimensionless form and then solved by Laplace transform technique. Numerical values of transient velocity, temperature, skin friction, and Nusselt number are illustrated and are presented in graphs for various sets of physical parametric values, namely, Grashof number, accelerating parameter, suction parameter, permeability parameter, radiation parameter, magnetic parameter, and time. It is found that the velocity decreases with increases of the suction parameter for both cases of cooling and heating of the porous plate whereas skin friction increases with increase of suction parameter.
The Hyperlipidemia Caused by Overuse of Glucocorticoid after Liver Transplantation and the Immune Adjustment Strategy
Authors: Meng Xueqin , Chen Xinhua , Wu Liming , Zheng Shusen
Published: January 2017

The overuse of glucocorticoid may cause the metabolic disorders affecting the long term outcome of liver transplantation. This study aims to investigate the immune adjustment strategy by decreasing use of glucocorticoid after liver transplantation. The follow-up study was carried out on liver function and lipid metabolism. This study included adult recipients of liver transplantation. There were 3 groups according to their use of glucocorticoid: long term (>3 months, n=18), short term (<3 months, n=20), and control group (no use of glucocorticoid, radical hepatic resection, n=22). The laboratory results of liver function (AST/ALT ratio) and serum lipid were compared 6 months after liver transplantation. AST/ALT ratio, the marker of liver function, showed no significant difference between long and short term group (P>0.05). The acute rejection had no significant difference between short and long term groups, while TG, HDL, LDL, and glucose showed significant change in the long term group (P<0.05). At 6 months after liver transplantation, the long term group showed higher metabolic disorders (P<0.05). The proper immune adjustment strategy should be made to avoid overuse of glucocorticoid. It can decrease hyperlipidemia and other metabolic disorders after liver transplantation without increasing the acute rejection or liver function damage.
Quercetin and Quercetin-Rich Red Onion Extract AlterPgc-1αPromoter Methylation and Splice Variant Expression
Authors: Devarshi Prasad P. , Jones Aarin D. , Taylor Erin M. , Stefanska Barbara , Henagan Tara M.
Published: January 2017

Pgc-1αand its various isoforms may play a role in determining skeletal muscle mitochondrial adaptations in response to diet. 8 wks of dietary supplementation with the flavonoid quercetin (Q) or red onion extract (ROE) in a high fat diet (HFD) ameliorates HFD-induced obesity and insulin resistance in C57BL/J mice while upregulatingPgc-1αand increasing skeletal muscle mitochondrial number and function. Here, mice were fed a low fat (LF), high fat (HF), high fat plus quercetin (HF + Q), or high fat plus red onion extract (HF + RO) diet for 9 wks and skeletal musclePgc-1αisoform expression and DNA methylation were determined. Quantification of variousPgc-1αisoforms, including isoformsPgc-1α-a,Pgc-1α-b,Pgc-1α-c,Pgc-1α4, totalNT-Pgc-1α, andFL-Pgc-1α, showed that only totalNT-Pgc-1αexpression was increased in LF, HF + Q, and HF + RO compared to HF. Furthermore, Q supplementation decreasedPgc-1α-aexpression compared to LF and HF, and ROE decreasedPgc-1α-aexpression compared to LF.FL-Pgc-1αwas decreased in HF + Q and HF + RO compared to LF and HF. HF exhibited hypermethylation at the −260 nucleotide (nt) in thePgc-1αpromoter. Q and ROE prevented HFD-induced hypermethylation. −260 nt methylation levels were associated withNT-Pgc-1αexpression only.Pgc-1αisoform expression may be epigenetically regulated by Q and ROE through DNA methylation.
Elucidation of the Anti-Inflammatory Mechanisms of Bupleuri and Scutellariae Radix Using System Pharmacological Analyses
Authors: Shen Xia , Zhao Zhenyu , Wang Hao , Guo Zihu , Hu Benxiang , Zhang Gang
Published: January 2017

Objective.This study was aimed at elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying the anti-inflammatory effect of the combined application of Bupleuri Radix and Scutellariae Radix and explored the potential therapeutic efficacy of these two drugs on inflammation-related diseases.Methods.After searching the databases, we collected the active ingredients of Bupleuri Radix and Scutellariae Radix and calculated their oral bioavailability (OB) and drug-likeness (DL) based on the absorption-distribution-metabolism-elimination (ADME) model. In addition, we predicted the drug targets of the selected active components based on weighted ensemble similarity (WES) and used them to construct a drug-target network. Gene ontology (GO) analysis and KEGG mapper tools were performed on these predicted target genes.Results.We obtained 30 compounds from Bupleuri Radix and Scutellariae Radix of good quality as indicated by ADME assays, which possess potential pharmacological activity. These 30 ingredients have a total of 121 potential target genes, which are involved in 24 biological processes related to inflammation.Conclusions.Combined application of Bupleuri Radix and Scutellariae Radix was found not only to directly inhibit the synthesis and release of inflammatory cytokines, but also to have potential therapeutic effects against inflammation-induced pain. In addition, a combination therapy of these two drugs exhibited systemic treatment efficacy and provided a theoretical basis for the development of drugs against inflammatory diseases.
The Potential of MicroRNAs as Novel Biomarkers for Transplant Rejection
Authors: Hamdorf Matthias , Kawakita Satoru , Everly Matthew
Published: January 2017

The control of gene expression by microRNAs (miRNAs, miR) influences many cellular functions, including cellular differentiation, cell proliferation, cell development, and functional regulation of the immune system. Recently, miRNAs have been detected in serum, plasma, and urine and circulating miR profiles have been associated with a variety of diseases. Rejection is one of the major causes of allograft failure and preventing and treating acute rejection are the central task for clinicians working with transplant patients. Invasive biopsies used in monitoring rejection are burdensome and risky to transplant patients. Novel and easily accessible biomarkers of acute rejection could make it possible to detect rejection earlier and make more fine-tuned calibration of immunosuppressive or new target treatment possible. In this review, we discuss whether circulating miRNA can serve as an early noninvasive diagnostic biomarker and an expression fingerprint of allograft rejection and transplant failure. Understanding the regulatory interplay of relevant miRNAs and the rejecting allograft will result in a better understanding of the molecular pathophysiology of alloimmune injury.
The Neuroprotective Effects of Carvacrol on Ethanol‐Induced Hippocampal Neurons Impairment via the Antioxidative and Antiapoptotic Pathways
Authors: Wang Peng , Luo Qian , Qiao Hui , Ding Hui , Cao Yonggang , Yu Juan , Liu Ruxia , Zhang Qianlong , Zhu Hui , Qu Lihui
Published: January 2017

Chronic alcohol consumption causes hippocampal neuronal impairment, which is associated with oxidative stress and apoptosis. Carvacrol is a major monoterpenic phenol found in essential oils from the family Labiatae and has antioxidative stress and antiapoptosis actions. However, the protective effects of carvacrol in ethanol‐induced hippocampal neuronal impairment have not been fully understood. We explored the neuroprotective effects of carvacrol in vivo and in vitro. Male C57BL/6 mice were exposed to 35% ethanol for 4 weeks to establish ethanol model in vivo, and hippocampal neuron injury was simulated by 200 mM ethanol in vitro. Morris water maze test was performed to evaluate the cognitive dysfunction. The oxidative stress injury of hippocampal neurons was evaluated by measuring the levels of oxidative stress biomarkers. Histopathological examinations and western blot were performed to evaluate the apoptosis of neurons. The results showed that carvacrol attenuates the cognitive dysfunction, oxidative stress, and apoptosis of the mice treated with ethanol and decreases hippocampal neurons apoptosis induced by ethanol in vitro. In addition, western blot analysis revealed that carvacrol modulates the protein expression of Bcl‐2, Bax, caspase‐3, and p‐ERK, without influence of p‐JNK and p‐p38. Our results suggest that carvacrol alleviates ethanol‐mediated hippocampal neuronal impairment by antioxidative and antiapoptotic effects.
Comparison of Functional Connectivity Estimated from Concatenated Task-State Data from Block-Design Paradigm with That of Continuous Task
Authors: Zhu Yang , Cheng Lin , He Naying , Yang Yang , Ling Huawei , Ayaz Hasan , Tong Shanbao , Sun Junfeng , Fu Yi
Published: January 2017

Functional connectivity (FC) analysis with data collected as continuous tasks and activation analysis using data from block-design paradigms are two main methods to investigate the task-induced brain activation. If the concatenated data of task blocks extracted from the block-design paradigm could provide equivalent FC information to that derived from continuous task data, it would shorten the data collection time and simplify experimental procedures, and the already collected data of block-design paradigms could be reanalyzed from the perspective of FC. Despite being used in many studies, such a hypothesis of equivalence has not yet been tested from multiple perspectives. In this study, we collected fMRI blood-oxygen-level-dependent signals from 24 healthy subjects during a continuous task session as well as in block-design task sessions. We compared concatenated task blocks and continuous task data in terms of region of interest- (ROI-) based FC, seed-based FC, and brain network topology during a short motor task. According to our results, the concatenated data was not significantly different from the continuous data in multiple aspects, indicating the potential of using concatenated data to estimate task-state FC in short motor tasks. However, even under appropriate experimental conditions, the interpretation of FC results based on concatenated data should be cautious and take the influence due to inherent information loss during concatenation into account.
Clinicopathological Features and Prognostic Factors of Colorectal Neuroendocrine Neoplasms
Authors: Jiang Mengjie , Tan Yinuo , Li Xiaofen , Fu Jianfei , Hu Hanguang , Ye Xianyun , Cao Ying , Xu Jinghong , Yuan Ying
Published: January 2017

Background. Limited research is available regarding colorectal NENs and the prognostic factors remain controversial. Materials and Methods. A total of 68 patients with colorectal NENs were studied retrospectively. Clinical characteristics and prognosis between colonic and rectal NENs were compared. The Cox regression models were used to evaluate the predictive capacity. Results. Of the 68 colorectal NENs patients, 43 (63.2%) had rectal NENs, and 25 (36.8%) had colonic NENs. Compared with rectal NENs, colonic NENs more frequently exhibited larger tumor size (P<0.0001) and distant metastasis (P<0.0001). Colonic NENs had a worse prognosis (P=0.027), with 5-year overall survival rates of 66.7% versus 88.1%. NET, NEC, and MANEC were noted in 61.8%, 23.5%, and 14.7% of patients, respectively. Multivariate analyses revealed that tumor location was not an independent prognostic factor (P=0.081), but tumor size (P=0.037) and pathological classification (P=0.012) were independent prognostic factors. Conclusion. Significant differences exist between colonic and rectal NENs. Multivariate analysis indicated that tumor size and pathological classification were associated with prognosis. Tumor location was not an independent factor. The worse outcome of colonic NENs observed in clinical practice might be due not only to the biological differences, but also to larger tumor size in colonic NENs caused by the delayed diagnosis.
Assessment of Pulmonary Toxicity Induced by Inhaled Toner with External Additives
Authors: Tomonaga Taisuke , Izumi Hiroto , Yoshiura Yukiko , Myojo Toshihiko , Oyabu Takako , Lee Byeong-Woo , Okada Takami , Li Yunshan , Kawai Kazuaki , Higashi Toshiaki , Morimoto Yasuo
Published: January 2017

We investigated the harmful effects of exposure to a toner with external additives by a long-term inhalation study using rats, examining pulmonary inflammation, oxidative stress, and histopathological changes in the lung. Wistar rats were exposed to a well-dispersed toner (mean of MMAD: 2.1 μm) at three mass concentrations of 1, 4, and 16 mg/m3for 22.5 months, and the rats were sacrificed after 6 months, 12 months, and 22.5 months of exposure. The low and medium concentrations did not induce statistically significant pulmonary inflammation, but the high concentration did, and, in addition, a histopathological examination showed fibrosis in the lung. Although lung tumor was observed in one sample of high exposure for 22.5 months, the cause was not statistically significant. On the other hand, a persistent increase in 8-OHdG was observed in the high exposure group, indicating that DNA damage by oxidative stress with persistent inflammation leads to the formation of tumorigenesis. The results of our studies show that toners with external additives lead to pulmonary inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis only at lung burdens beyond overload. These data suggest that toners with external additives may have low toxicity in the lung.
In‐Depth Investigation of Statistical and Physicochemical Properties on the Field Study of the Intermittent Filling of Large Water Tanks
Authors: Kim Do-Hwan , Choi Doo Yong , Choi Taeho , Geem Zong Woo
Published: January 2017

Large‐demand customers, generally high‐density dwellings and buildings, have dedicated ground or elevated water tanks to consistently supply drinking water to residents. Online field measurement for Nonsan‐2 district meter area demonstrated that intermittent replenishment from large‐demand customers could disrupt the normal operation of a water distribution system by taking large quantities of water in short times when filling the tanks from distribution mains. Based on the previous results of field measurement for hydraulic and water quality parameters, statistical analysis is performed for measured data in terms of autocorrelation, power spectral density, and cross‐correlation. The statistical results show that the intermittent filling interval of 6.7 h and diurnal demand pattern of 23.3 h are detected through autocorrelation analyses, the similarities of the flow‐pressure and the turbidity‐particle count data are confirmed as a function of frequency through power spectral density analyses, and a strong cross‐correlation is observed in the flow‐pressure and turbidity‐particle count analyses. In addition, physicochemical results show that the intermittent refill of storage tank from large‐demand customers induces abnormal flow and pressure fluctuations and results in transient‐induced turbid flow mainly composed of fine particles ranging within 2–4 μm and constituting Fe, Si, and Al.
Performance of NiFe2O4-SiO2-TiO2 Magnetic Photocatalyst for the Effective Photocatalytic Reduction of Cr(VI) in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Ojemaye Mike O. , Okoh Omobola O. , Okoh Anthony I.
Published: January 2017

Investigation into the reduction of Cr(VI) in aqueous solution was carried out through some batch photocatalytic studies. The photocatalysts used were silica coated nickel ferrite nanoparticles (NiFe2O4-SiO2), nickel ferrite titanium dioxide (NiFe2O4-TiO2), nickel ferrite silica titanium dioxide (NiFe2O4-SiO2-TiO2), and titanium dioxide (TiO2). The characterization of the materials prepared via stepwise synthesis using coprecipitation and sol-gel methods were carried out with the aid of X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM). The reduction efficiency was studied as a function of pH, photocatalyst dose, and contact time. The effects of silica interlayer between the magnetic photocatalyst materials reveal that reduction efficiency of NiFe2O4-SiO2-TiO2 towards Cr(VI) was higher than that of NiFe2O4-TiO2. However, TiO2 was observed to have the highest reduction efficiency at all batch photocatalytic experiments. Kinetics study shows that photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI) obeyed Langmuir-Hinshelwood model and first-order rate kinetics. Regenerability study also suggested that the photocatalyst materials can be reused.
Antineoplastic Effects of Honokiol on Melanoma
Authors: Guillermo-Lagae Ruth , Santha Sreevidya , Thomas Milton , Zoelle Emily , Stevens Jonathan , Kaushik Radhey S. , Dwivedi Chandradhar
Published: January 2017

Honokiol, a plant lignan has been shown to have antineoplastic effects against nonmelanoma skin cancer developments in mice. In this study, antineoplastic effects of honokiol were investigated in malignant melanoma models. In vitro effects of honokiol treatment on SKMEL-2 and UACC-62 melanoma cells were evaluated by measuring the cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle analysis, and expressions of various proteins associated with cell cycle progression and apoptosis. For the in vivo study, male nude mice inoculated with SKMEL-2 or UACC-62 cells received injections of sesame oil or honokiol for two to seven weeks. In vitro honokiol treatment caused significant decrease in cell viability, proliferation, cell cycle arrest, increased apoptosis, and modulation of apoptotic and cell cycle regulatory proteins. Honokiol caused an accumulation of cells in the G2/M phase of the cell cycle in SKMEL-2 and G0/G1 phase in UACC-62 cells. An elevated level of caspases and PARP were observed in both cell lines treated with honokiol. A decrease in the expression of various cell cycle regulatory proteins was also observed in honokiol treated cells. Honokiol caused a significant reduction of tumor growth in SKMEL-2 and UACC-62 melanoma xenografts. These findings suggest that honokiol is a good candidate for further studies as a possible treatment for malignant melanoma.
Quality, Microstructure, and Technological Properties ofSheepMeat Marinated in Three Different Ways
Authors: Vlahova-Vangelova Dessislava Borislavova , Dragoev Stefan Georgiev , Balev Dessislav Kostadinov , Assenova Bahytkul Kajkenovna , Amirhanov Kumarbek Junusbekovich
Published: January 2017

The objective of this study was to explore the effect of 24 and 48 h alkaline (2% pentasodium tripolyphosphate), acid (2% sodium lactate), and water-oil marinating (water : sun flavor oil = 1 : 1 and 2% salt) as well as brine soaking (2% salt) on microstructure, changes in protein, and lipid fractions and technological properties of sheep (m. Longissimus dorsi). Strong myofibrillar fragmentation after 48 h alkaline marinating was observed. Significant swelling and increasing of spaces between myofibrils were found after 24 h brine soaking. Marinating in water-oil emulsions did not show a significant impact on the muscle microstructure. Alkaline and acid marinating as well as salt soaking promote the myofibrillar protein solubility and increased the free amino nitrogen content. After 24 h acid and 48 h alkaline marinating SDS-PAGE electrophoresis showed increasing of 25–30 kDa protein bands. The results obtained for the lipid and protein oxidation confirm prooxidant action of the sodium lactate (2%) and antioxidant effect of polyphosphates (2%) in marinated sheep.
Intestinal Barrier Disturbances in Haemodialysis Patients: Mechanisms, Consequences, and Therapeutic Options
Authors: March D. S. , Graham-Brown M. P. M. , Stover C. M. , Bishop N. C. , Burton J. O.
Published: January 2017

There is accumulating evidence that the intestinal barrier and the microbiota may play a role in the systemic inflammation present in HD patients. HD patients are subject to a number of unique factors, some related to the HD process and others simply to the uraemic milieu but with common characteristic that they can both alter the intestinal barrier and the microbiota. This review is intended to provide an overview of the current methods for measuring such changes in HD patients, the mechanisms behind these changes, and potential strategies that may mitigate these modifications. Lastly, intradialytic exercise is an increasingly employed intervention in HD patients; however the potential implications that this may have for the intestinal barrier are not known; therefore future research directions are also covered.
Acute Acalculous Cholecystitis: A Rare Presentation of Primary Epstein-Barr Virus Infection in Adults—Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Yesilbag Zuhal , Karadeniz Asli , Kaya Fatih Oner
Published: January 2017

Primary Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is almost always a self-limited disease characterized by sore throat, fever, and lymphadenopathy. Hepatic involvement is usually characterized by mild elevations of aminotransferases and resolves spontaneously. Although isolated gallbladder wall thickness has been reported in these patients, acute acalculous cholecystitis is an atypical presentation of primary EBV infection. We presented a young women admitted with a 10-day history of fever, nausea, malaise who had jaundice and right upper quadrant tenderness on the physical examination. Based on diagnostic laboratory tests and abdominal ultrasonographic findings, cholestasis and acute acalculous cholecystitis were diagnosed. Serology performed for EBV revealed the acute EBV infection. Symptoms and clinical course gradually improved with the conservative therapy, and at the 1-month follow-up laboratory findings were normal. We reviewed 16 adult cases with EBV-associated AAC in the literature. Classic symptoms of EBV infection were not predominant and all cases experienced gastrointestinal symptoms. Only one patient underwent surgery and all other patients recovered with conservative therapy. The development of AAC should be kept in mind in patients with cholestatic hepatitis due to EBV infection to avoid unnecessary surgical therapy and overuse of antibiotics.
Mouse Mesenchymal Progenitor Cells Expressing Adipogenic and Osteogenic Transcription Factors Suppress the Macrophage Inflammatory Response
Authors: Fernandez Natalie , Renna Heather , McHugh Lauren , Mazolkova Katie , Crugnola William , Evans Jodi F.
Published: January 2017

Mesenchymal progenitor cell characteristics that can identify progenitor populations with specific functions in immunity are actively being investigated. Progenitors from bone marrow and adipose tissue regulate the macrophage (MΦ) inflammatory response by promoting the switch from an inflammatory to an anti-inflammatory phenotype. Conversely, mesenchymal progenitors from the mouse aorta (mAo) support and contribute to the MΦ response under inflammatory conditions. We used cell lines with purported opposing immune-regulatory function, a bone marrow derived mesenchymal progenitor cell line (D1) and a mouse aorta derived mesenchymal progenitor cell line (mAo). Their interaction and regulation of the MΦ cell response to the inflammatory mediator, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), was examined by coculture. As expected, D1 cells suppressed NO, TNF-α, and IL-12p70 production but MΦ phagocytic activity remained unchanged. The mAo cells enhanced NO and TNF-αproduction in coculture and enhanced MΦ phagocytic activity. Using flow cytometry and PCR array, we then sought to identify sets of MSC-associated genes and markers that are expressed by these progenitor populations. We have determined that immune-supportive mesenchymal progenitors highly express chondrogenic and tenogenic transcription factors while immunosuppressive mesenchymal progenitors highly express adipogenic and osteogenic transcription factors. These data will be useful for the isolation, purification, and modification of mesenchymal progenitors to be used in the treatment of inflammatory diseases.
Study of Fatty Acids Profile in Kernel Oil of Heynea trijuga Roxb. Ex Sims. (syn. Trichilia connaroides (Wight & Arn.) Bentv.)
Authors: Mittal Ashutosh K. , Tandon Shishir
Published: January 2017

Seed oils have been used for centuries by communities as food, medicine, cosmetic applications, and fuel. Recently, there has been a renewed interest in these nontimber forest products specifically for use in cosmetic formulations. The fatty acid compositions of kernel oil of Heynea trijuga was analyzed by GC-FID. The results showed that the oil content was 37.61 percent (w/w) in seed. Seed oil was rich in unsaturated fatty acids. Important fatty acids present were palmitic acid (22.12%), stearic acid (7.51%), oleic acid (25.20%), and linoleic acid (11.65%).
Essential Oil Constituents ofTanacetum cilicicum: Antimicrobial and Phytotoxic Activities
Authors: Ulukanli Zeynep , Demirci Salih , Yilmaztekin Murat
Published: January 2017

Aerial parts ofTanacetum cilicicumwere hydrodistillated for 3 h using Clevenger. Essential oil (EO) yield was 0.4% (v/w). According to the GC/MS analyses, EO ofT. cilicicumconsisted of monoterpenes [α-pinene (2.95 ± 0.19%), sabinene (2.32 ± 0.11%), and limonene (3.17 ± 0.25)], oxygenated monoterpenes [eucalyptol (5.08 ± 0.32%), camphor (3.53 ± 0.27%), linalool (7.01 ± 0.32%),α-terpineol (3.13 ± 0.23%), and borneol (4.21 ± 0.17%)], and sesquiterpenes [sesquisabinene hydrate (6.88 ± 0.41%), nerolidol (4.90 ± 0.33%),α-muurolol (4.57%  ± 0.35), spathulanol (2.98 ± 0.12%), juniper camphor (2.68 ± 0.19%), (-)-caryophyllene oxide (2.64 ± 0.19%), 8-hydroxylinalool (2.62 ± 0.15%), andΔ-cadinene (2.48 ± 0.16%)]. In the antimicrobial assay, MIC/MBC values of the EO were the most significant onB. subtilis(0.39/0.78 µL/mL) andB. cereus(0.78/1.56 µL/mL).The most prominent phytotoxic activities of the EO were observed onL. sativa,L. sativum, andP. oleracea. The results of the present study indicated that EO ofT. cilicicumincludes various medicinally and industrially crucial phytoconstituents that could be in use for industrial applications. The finding of this study is the first report on this species from the East Mediterranean region.
Physicochemical and Nutritional Characterization of Brebas for Fresh Consumption from Nine Fig Varieties (Ficus caricaL.) Grown in Extremadura (Spain)
Authors: Pereira Cristina , López Corrales Margarita , Martín Alberto , Villalobos María del Carmen , Córdoba María de Guía , Serradilla Manuel Joaquín
Published: January 2017

The quality characteristics of brebas for fresh consumption from nine fig varieties at different commercial ripening stages were determined. Physicochemical and nutritional parameters were analyzed for both skin and flesh, and the findings were compared among varieties and ripening stages. The results revealed that the major nutrient components in brebas are sugars, such as glucose and fructose, and mineral elements, including K, Ca, P, and Mg. Most nutrients evaluated are important elements that contribute to the commercial quality of brebas. “Brown Turkey” and “Banane” varieties showed the highest weight and width. The concentrations of the monomer sugars studied were higher in flesh than skin, and the “Cuello Dama Blanco” and “Colar Elche” varieties showed the highest content of these sugars. The early ripening stage, coinciding with a fast increase in fruit size, was also associated with a higher fiber and protein contents, TA, and firmness for “Banane,” “Brown Turkey,” and “Blanca Bétera” varieties. Conversely, the later ripening stage was related to a significant increase of TSS, MI, and color intensity. Finally, no clear changes in the concentrations of organic acids were observed between different varieties and commercial ripening stages.
Localizing Age-Related Changes in Brain Structure Using Voxel-Based Morphometry
Authors: Mu Shu Hua , Xu Min , Duan Jun Xiu , Zhang Jian , Tan Li Hai
Published: January 2017

Aim. We report the dynamic anatomical sequence of human cortical gray matter development from late childhood to young adults using VBM and ROI-based methods.Method. The structural MRI of 91 normal individuals ranging in age from 6 to 26 years was obtained and the GMV for each region was measured.Results. Our results showed that the earliest loss of GMV occurred in left olfactory, right precuneus, caudate, left putamen, pallidum, and left middle temporal gyrus. In addition, the trajectory of maturational and aging showed a linear decline in GMV on both cortical lobes and subcortical regions. The most loss of gray matter was observed in the parietal lobe and basal ganglia, whereas the less loss occurred in the temporal lobe and hippocampus, especially in the left middle temporal pole, which showed no decline until 26 years old. Moreover, the volumes of GM, WM, and CSF were also assessed for linear age effects, showing a significant linear decline in GM with age and a significant linear increase in both WM and CSF with age.Interpretation. Overall, our findings lend support to previous findings of the normal brain development of regional cortex, and they may help in understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders.
Optimization of the Extraction and Stability of Antioxidative Peptides from Mackerel (Pneumatophorus japonicus) Protein
Authors: Wang Xueqin , Yu Huahua , Xing Ronge , Chen Xiaolin , Liu Song , Li Pengcheng
Published: January 2017

This study optimizes the preparation conditions for mackerel protein hydrolysate (MPH) by response surface methodology (RSM) and investigates the stability of the antioxidant activity of MPHs (<2.5 kDa). The optimal conditions were as follows: enzyme concentration of 1726.85 U/g, pH of 7.00, temperature of 39.55°C, time of 5.5 h, and water/material ratio of 25 : 1, and the maximum DPPH scavenging activity was 79.14%. The MPHs indicated significant cellular antioxidant activity at low concentrations. Furthermore, the temperature and freeze-thaw cycles had little effect on the antioxidative stability while pH had significant effect on the antioxidative stability. In addition, the MPHs were sensitive to the metal ions, such as Fe2+, Fe3+, Zn2+, and Cu2+. Notably, when the concentrations of Fe2+and Fe3+were 5 mM, the DPPH scavenging activities were only 1.1% and 0.6%, respectively; furthermore, Cu2+at a 5 mM concentration could completely inhibit the DPPH scavenging activity of MPHs. In contrast, K+and Mg2+had no notable effect on the antioxidant activity of MPHs. These results may provide a scientific basis for the processing and application of MPHs.
Anti-TNF-Mediated Modulation of Prohepcidin Improves Iron Availability in Inflammatory Bowel Disease, in an IL-6-Mediated Fashion
Authors: Cavallaro Flaminia , Duca Lorena , Pisani Laura Francesca , Rigolini Roberta , Spina Luisa , Tontini Gian Eugenio , Munizio Nadia , Costa Elena , Cappellini Maria Domenica , Vecchi Maurizio , Pastorelli Luca
Published: January 2017

Background.Anaemia is common in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), frequently resulting from a combination of iron deficiency and of anaemia of chronic disease (ACD). ACD is characterized by macrophage iron retention induced by proinflammatory cytokines. Hepcidin is the master inducer of iron accumulation during ACD, and its production is mainly regulated by IL-6 and the novel erythroid hormone erythroferrone (ERFE). This study evaluates whether anti-TNF monoclonal antibodies therapy modurates hepcidin production and the levels of its main regulators, leading to a restoration of iron homeostasis.Methods.Sera were collected from 21 IBD patients, before each anti-TNF administration, for the first 6 weeks of therapy. Prohepcidin, erythropoietin, erythroferrone, C reactive protein, interleukin-6, iron markers, and haemoglobin levels were measured and clinical activity indexes were evaluated.Results.Serum prohepcidin, IL-6, CRP, and ferritin were significantly reduced after 6-week treatment; an increase in serum iron and total transferrin was observed. No changes in the EPO-ERFE axis were found. Remarkably, haemoglobin was significantly increased.Conclusions.Anti-TNF therapy improves iron metabolism and, subsequently, anaemia in IBD. This effect appears to be related to the modulation of the cytokine network and specifically IL-6 leading to a relevant decrease of hepcidin, a master regulator of ACD.
Lipids: A Suitable Therapeutic Target in Diabetic Neuropathy?
Authors: Perez-Matos M. C. , Morales-Alvarez M. C. , Mendivil C. O.
Published: January 2017

Diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN) encompasses multiple syndromes with a common pathogenesis. Glycemic control shows a limited correlation with DPN, arguing in favor of major involvement of other factors, one of which is alterations of lipid and lipoprotein metabolism. Consistent associations have been found between plasma triglycerides/remnant lipoproteins and the risk of DPN. Studies in cultured nerve tissue or in murine models of diabetes have unveiled mechanisms linking lipid metabolism to DPN. Deficient insulin action increases fatty acids flux to nerve cells, inducing mitochondrial dysfunction, anomalous protein kinase C signaling, and perturbations in the physicochemical properties of the plasma membrane. Oxidized low-density lipoproteins bind to cellular receptors and promote generation of reactive oxygen species, worsening mitochondrial function and altering the electrical properties of neurons. Supplementation with specific fatty acids has led to prevention or reversal of different modalities of DPN in animal models. Post hoc and secondary analyses of clinical trials have found benefits of cholesterol reducing (statins and ezetimibe), triglyceride-reducing (fibrates), or lipid antioxidant (thioctic acid) therapies over the progression and severity of DPN. However, these findings are mostly hypothesis-generating. Randomized trials are warranted in which the impact of intensive plasma lipids normalization on DPN outcomes is specifically evaluated.
Metastatic Invasive Lobular Breast Cancer Presenting Clinically with Esophageal Dysphagia
Authors: Karapetyan Lilit , Laird-Fick Heather , Cuison Reuben
Published: January 2017

Background. Intra-abdominal metastases of invasive lobular breast cancer (ILBC) may be insidious. We report a case of metastatic ILBC that presented with dysphagia within weeks of a negative mammogram and before the development of intra-abdominal symptoms. Case. A 70-year-old female developed esophageal dysphagia. She underwent EGD which showed a short segment of stricture of the distal esophagus without significant mucosal changes. Biopsy was unremarkable and patient underwent lower esophageal sphincter (LES) dilation. Severe progressive dysphagia led to esophageal impaction and three LES dilatations. CT scan showed bilateral pleural effusions, more prominent on right side, and ascites. The pleural effusions were transudative. Repeat EGD with biopsy showed lymphocytic esophagitis, and she was started on swallowed fluticasone. Abdominal ultrasound with Doppler showed that the main portal vein had atypical turbulent flow that was felt to possibly be due to retroperitoneal process. The patient underwent diagnostic laparoscopy which revealed diffuse punctate lesions on the peritoneum. Pathology was consistent with metastatic ILBC. Conclusion. Dysphagia in the setting of peritoneal carcinomatosis from metastatic ILBC is a rare finding. The case highlights the importance of metastatic ILBC as a differential diagnosis for female patients with progressive dysphagia and associated ascites or pleural effusions.
Effect of Hypoxia on the Differentiation and the Self-Renewal of Metanephrogenic Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Liu Shaopeng , Song Nana , He Jianqiang , Yu Xiaofang , Guo Jia , Jiao Xiaoyan , Ding Xiaoqiang , Teng Jie
Published: January 2017

Hypoxia is an important and influential factor in development. The embryonic kidney is exposed to a hypoxic environment throughout its development. The Wnt/β-catenin pathway plays vital roles in the differentiation and self-renewal of metanephrogenic mesenchymal stem cells (MMSCs) from which the kidney is derived. Thus, we hypothesized that hypoxia can regulate the differentiation and pluripotency of MMSCs through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. To test this hypothesis, MMSCs from rats at embryonic day 18.5 were cultured in normoxic (21% O2) and hypoxic (1% O2) conditions. The effects of hypoxia on differentiation, stemness, proliferation, and apoptosis of cultured MMSCs and on the activity of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway were tested. Our results revealed that the hypoxic condition increased the number of epithelial cells (E-cadherin+or CK18+) as well the expression of markers of renal tubule epithelia cells (CDH6, Aqp1, and OPN), decreased the number and proliferation of stem cells (SIX-2+or CITED1+), and induced apoptosis. Additionally, hypoxia reduced the expression of Wnt4 as well as its downstream moleculesβ-catenin, LEF-1, and Axin2. Activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway by LiCl or BIO modified the effects of hypoxia on the differentiation and self-renewal of MMSCs. Thus, we concluded that hypoxia induces the differentiation and inhibits the self-renewal of MMSCs by inhibiting the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. The observations further our understanding of the effects of hypoxia on kidney.
Simulation and Performance Evaluations of the New GPS L5 and L1 Signals
Authors: Saleem Tahir , Usman Mohammad , Elahi Atif , Gul Noor
Published: January 2017

The Global Positioning System (GPS) signals are used for navigation and positioning purposes by a diverse set of users. As a part of GPS modernization effort L5 has been recently introduced for better accuracy and availability service. This paper intends to study and simulate the GPS L1/L5 signal in order to fulfill the following two objectives. The first aim is to point out some important features/differences between current L1 (whose characteristics have been fairly known and documented) and new L5 GPS signal for performance evaluation purpose. The second aim is to facilitate receiver development, which will be designed and assembled later for the actual acquisition of GPS data. Simulation has been carried out for evaluation of correlation properties and link budgeting for both L1 and L5 signals. The necessary programming is performed in Matlab.
Black Holes and Information: A New Take on an Old Paradox
Authors: Bryan K. L. H. , Medved A. J. M.
Published: January 2017

Interest in the black hole information paradox has recently been catalyzed by the newer “firewall” argument. The crux of the updated argument is that previous solutions which relied on observer complementarity are in violation of the quantum condition of monogamy of entanglement, with the prescribed remedy being to discard the equivalence principle in favor of an energy barrier (or firewall) at the black hole horizon. Differing points of view have been put forward, including the “ER = EPR” counterargument and the final-state solution, both of which can be viewed as potential resolutions to the apparent conflict between quantum monogamy and Einstein equivalence. After reviewing these recent developments, this paper argues that the ER = EPR and final-state solutions can—thanks to observer complementarity—be seen as the same resolution of the paradox but from two different perspectives: inside and outside the black hole.
Prediction and Analysis of Key Genes in Glioblastoma Based on Bioinformatics
Authors: Long Hao , Liang Chaofeng , Zhang Xi’an , Fang Luxiong , Wang Gang , Qi Songtao , Huo Haizhong , Song Ye
Published: January 2017

Understanding the mechanisms of glioblastoma at the molecular and structural level is not only interesting for basic science but also valuable for biotechnological application, such as the clinical treatment. In the present study, bioinformatics analysis was performed to reveal and identify the key genes of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). The results obtained in the present study signified the importance of some genes, such as COL3A1, FN1, and MMP9, for glioblastoma. Based on the selected genes, a prediction model was built, which achieved 94.4% prediction accuracy. These findings might provide more insights into the genetic basis of glioblastoma.
Progranulin Inhibits Human T Lymphocyte Proliferation by Inducing the Formation of Regulatory T Lymphocytes
Authors: Kwack Kyu Hwan , Lee Hyeon-Woo
Published: January 2017

We have examined the effect of progranulin (PGRN) on human T cell proliferation and its underlying mechanism. We show that PGRN inhibits the PHA-induced multiplication of T lymphocytes. It increases the number of iTregs when T lymphocytes are activated by PHA but does not do so in the absence of PHA. PGRN-mediated inhibition of T lymphocyte proliferation, as well as the induction of iTregs, was completely reversed by a TGF-βinhibitor or a Treg inhibitor. PGRN induced TGF-βsecretion in the presence of PHA whereas it did not in the absence of PHA. Our findings indicate that PGRN suppresses T lymphocyte proliferation by enhancing the formation of iTregs from activated T lymphocytes in response to TGF-β.
AH-MAC: Adaptive Hierarchical MAC Protocol for Low-Rate Wireless Sensor Network Applications
Authors: Al-Sulaifanie Adnan Ismail , Biswas Subir , Khorsheed Al-Sulaifanie Bayez
Published: January 2017

This paper proposes an adaptive hierarchical MAC protocol (AH-MAC) with cross-layer optimization for low-rate and large-scale wireless sensor networks. The main goal of the proposed protocol is to combine the strengths of LEACH and IEEE 802.15.4 while offsetting their weaknesses. The predetermined cluster heads are supported with an energy harvesting circuit, while the normal nodes are battery-operated. To prolong the network’s operational lifetime, the proposed protocol transfers most of the network’s activities to the cluster heads while minimizing the node’s activity. Some of the main features of this protocol include energy efficiency, self-configurability, scalability, and self-healing. The simulation results showed great improvement of the AH-MAC over LEACH protocol in terms of energy consumption and throughput. AH-MAC consumes eight times less energy while improving throughput via acknowledgment support.
Suppression of Excessive Histone Deacetylases Activity in Diabetic Hearts Attenuates Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury via Mitochondria Apoptosis Pathway
Authors: Wu Yang , Leng Yan , Meng Qingtao , Xue Rui , Zhao Bo , Zhan Liying , Xia Zhongyuan
Published: January 2017

Background. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) play a pivotal role in signaling modification and gene transcriptional regulation that are essential for cardiovascular pathophysiology. Diabetic hearts with higher HDACs activity were more vulnerable to myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (MI/R) injury compared with nondiabetic hearts. We are curious about whether suppression of excessive HDACs activity in diabetic heart protects against MI/R injury. Methods. Diabetic rats were subjected to 45 min of ischemia, followed by 3 h of reperfusion. H9C2 cardiomyocytes were exposed to high glucose for 24 h, followed by 4 h of hypoxia and 2 h of reoxygenation (H/R). Results. Both MI/R injury and diabetes mellitus elevated myocardium HDACs activity. MI/R induced apoptotic cell death was significantly decreased in diabetic rats treated with HDACs inhibitor trichostatin A (TSA). TSA administration markedly moderated dissipation of mitochondrial membrane potential, protected the integrity of mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP), and decreased cell apoptosis. Notably, cotreatment with Akt inhibitor partly or absolutely inhibited the protective effect of TSA in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, TSA administration activated Akt/Foxo3a pathway, leading to Foxo3a cytoplasm translocation and attenuation proapoptosis protein Bim expression. Conclusions. Both diabetes mellitus and MI/R injury increased cardiac HDACs activity. Suppression of HDACs activity triggered protective effects against MI/R and H/R injury under hyperglycemia conditions through Akt-modulated mitochondrial apoptotic pathways via Foxo3a/Bim.
The Impact of Perception toward the Built Environment in Airport Access Mode Choice Using Hybrid Choice Modeling
Authors: Yazdanpanah Mahdi , Hadji Hosseinlou Mansour
Published: January 2017

Built environment (BE), as an objective variable, plays a substantial role in urban residents’ behavior. However, the perception toward a BE, as a subjective variable, varies among people. To identify the role of perception toward BE, we used a stated preference (SP) survey conducted in January–February 2015 at the Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKIA), Tehran, Iran. The data was drawn from 641 individuals; 359 of them were residents of Tehran. For the estimation of the model, a hybrid discrete choice model was used to capture the latent variable, in addition to mode attributes and trip conditions, with 1795 SP observations. Psychometric questions concerned the perception of ease in access to main streets or highways and good traffic conditions within their residential areas. The results showed that the latent variable (positive perception toward built environment or PBE) had a significant positive effect on people’s willingness to park at the airport. Moreover, the gender, age, marital status, level of education, experience living in a foreign country, and income level also influenced the formation of perception toward the BE and airport transportation mode choice.
Screening and Expression of a Silicon Transporter Gene(Lsi1)in Wild-Type Indica Rice Cultivars
Authors: Sahebi Mahbod , Hanafi Mohamed M. , Rafii M. Y. , Azizi Parisa , Abiri Rambod , Kalhori Nahid , Atabaki Narges
Published: January 2017

Silicon (Si) is one of the most prevalent elements in the soil. It is beneficial for plant growth and development, and it contributes to plant defense against different stresses. TheLsi1gene encodes a Si transporter that was identified in a mutant Japonica rice variety. This gene was not identified in fourteen Malaysian rice varieties during screening. Then, a mutant version ofLsi1was substituted for the native version in the three most common Malaysian rice varieties, MR219, MR220, and MR276, to evaluate the function of the transgene. Real-time PCR was used to explore the differential expression ofLsi1in the three transgenic rice varieties. Silicon concentrations in the roots and leaves of transgenic plants were significantly higher than in wild-type plants. Transgenic varieties showed significant increases in the activities of the enzymes SOD, POD, APX, and CAT; photosynthesis; and chlorophyll content; however, the highest chlorophyll A and B levels were observed in transgenic MR276. Transgenic varieties have shown a stronger root and leaf structure, as well as hairier roots, compared to the wild-type plants. This suggests thatLsi1plays a key role in rice, increasing the absorption and accumulation of Si, then alters antioxidant activities, and improves morphological properties.