bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Wide-Band Circularly Polarized Wide-Gap Antenna Loaded with a Y-Shaped Metal Strip for L-Band Application
Authors: Kang Chun-Ying , Lin Shu , Zong Hua , Zhao Zhi-Hua , Zhang Xue-Ying
Published: May 2015

A wide-band circularly polarized wide-gap antenna loaded with a Y-shaped metal strip applied to L-band is proposed in this paper. The Y-shaped metal strip coupling motivates the wide gap to achieve wide-band circularly polarized radiation. Both the simulated results by CST Microwave Studio and the measured results indicate that the antenna impedance bandwidth (reflection coefficient less than −10 dB) and axial ratio bandwidth (AR < 3 dB) are 35.9% (1.1–1.71 GHz). The antenna produces a dual circularly polarized radiation with gain of 0.8–3.2 dBic. The equivalent current array model of the antenna is also presented, which well explains the radiation characteristics of the antenna. The introduction of the metal reflecting plate makes the antenna a directional one, whose gain is above 4 dBic within the band. This design enables the satellite communication for most frequency bands with high gain, which has a vast potential for future development.
Body Image Disturbances Have Impact on the Sexual Problems in Chinese Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients
Authors: Shen Biyu , He Yan , Chen Haoyang , Zhao Chunmei , Zhu Li , Gao Yingying , Ren Yunli , Wang Xueqing , Liu Jingwei
Published: May 2015

SLE might affect all aspects of life including sexual functioning; previous study found that body image disturbance (BID) was the most powerful predictors of impaired partner relationships and sexual function. The current study investigated the relationship among disease parameters, quality of life, the psychological status, BID, and sexual problems in Chinese patients with SLE. A self-report survey design was administered to 168 SLE patients and 210 healthy individuals. Our results showed that 86 (55.1%) SLE patients reported impaired relationships with a sexual partner or partners, and 100 (64.1%) patients reported impaired sexual function which were significantly higher than the control group (31.6%, 35.7%, rep.). Age, marital status, depression, and BIDQ were the most powerful predictors of impaired partner relationships, while BIDQ3 and education, disease activity, and depression were the most significant causes of impaired sexual function. The study for first time reported Chinese SLE patients had sexual problems and BID was associated with sexual problems. So, early detection and interventions might not only rehabilitate the patients and their loved ones, but also improve overall health outcomes and reduce the direct and indirect costs of their medical care.
Transfection of Platyhelminthes
Authors: Moguel Bárbara , Bobes Raúl J. , Carrero Julio C. , Laclette Juan P.
Published: May 2015

Flatworms are one of the most diverse groups within Lophotrochozoa with more than 20,000 known species, distributed worldwide in different ecosystems, from the free-living organisms in the seas and lakes to highly specialized parasites living in a variety of hosts, including humans. Several infections caused by flatworms are considered major neglected diseases affecting countries in the Americas, Asia, and Africa. For several decades, a particular interest on free-living flatworms was due to their ability to regenerate considerable portions of the body, implying the presence of germ cells that could be important for medicine. The relevance of reverse genetics for this group is clear; understanding the phenotypic characteristics of specific genes will shed light on developmental traits of free-living and parasite worms. The genetic manipulation of flatworms will allow learning more about the mechanisms for tissue regeneration, designing new and more effective anthelmintic drugs, and explaining the host-parasite molecular crosstalk so far partially inaccessible for experimentation. In this review, availability of transfection techniques is analyzed across flatworms, from the initial transient achievements to the stable manipulations now developed for free-living and parasite species.
Secretome Identifies Tenascin-X as a Potent Marker of Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Kramer Marianne , Pierredon Sandra , Ribaux Pascale , Tille Jean-Christophe , Petignat Patrick , Cohen Marie
Published: May 2015

CA-125 has been a valuable marker for the follow-up of ovarian cancer patients but it is not sensitive enough to be used as diagnostic marker. We had already used secretomic methods to identify proteins differentially secreted by serous ovarian cancer cells compared to healthy ovarian cells. Here, we evaluated the secretion of these proteins by ovarian cancer cells during the follow-up of one patient. Proteins that correlated with CA-125 levels were screened using serum samples from ovarian cancer patients as well as benign and healthy controls. Tenascin-X secretion was shown to correlate with CA-125 value in the initial case study. The immunohistochemical detection of increased amount of tenascin-X in ovarian cancer tissues compared to healthy tissues confirms the potent interest in tenascin-X as marker. We then quantified the tenascin-X level in serum of patients and identified tenascin-X as potent marker for ovarian cancer, showing that secretomic analysis is suitable for the identification of protein biomarkers when combined with protein immunoassay. Using this method, we determined tenascin-X as a new potent marker for serous ovarian cancer.
Multidisciplinary Approach to Hepatic Metastases of Intracranial Hemangiopericytoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Manatakis Dimitrios K. , Delis Spiridon G. , Ptohis Nikolaos , Korkolopoulou Penelope , Dervenis Christos
Published: May 2015

Hemangiopericytoma is a rare primary tumor originating from Zimmerman’s pericytes, with significant metastatic potential. Hepatic metastatic disease requires an aggressive approach by a multidisciplinary team of dedicated oncology specialists, to prolong survival in selected patients. We report on a patient with recurrent hepatic metastases of grade II intracranial hemangiopericytoma 5 years after initial treatment, managed by a stepwise combination of liver resection, radiofrequency ablation, and transarterial embolization. Although metastatic disease implies hematogenous dissemination, long-term survival after liver resection has been reported and major hepatectomies are justified in patients with adequate local control. Liver resections combined with transarterial embolization are highly recommended, due to hypervascularity of the tumor.
Roles of ERβand GPR30 in Proliferative Response of Human Bladder Cancer Cell to Estrogen
Authors: Huang Weiren , Chen Yuanbin , Liu Yuchen , Zhang Qiaoxia , Yu Zhou , Mou Lisha , Wu Hanwei , Zhao Li , Long Ting , Qin Danian , Gui Yaoting
Published: May 2015

Bladder cancer belongs to one of the most common cancers and is a leading cause of deaths in our society. Urothelial carcinoma of the bladder (UCB) is the main type of this cancer, and the estrogen receptors in UCB remain to be studied. Our experiment aimed to investigate the possible biological effect of 17β-estradiol on human bladder-derived T24 carcinoma cells and to indicate its related mechanisms. T24 cells were treated with various doses of 17β-estradiol, and cell proliferation was detected using MTT assays. 17β-estradiol promoted T24 cell proliferation independent of ERβ/GPR30-regulated EGFR-MAPK pathway, while it inhibited cell growth via GPR30. Furthermore, the expression levels of downstream genes (c-FOS, BCL-2,andCYCLIN D1) were increased by 17β-estradiol and this effect was independently associated with activity of the EGFR-MAPK pathway. The two estrogen receptors might be potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of bladder cancer.
GDF15(MIC1)H6D Polymorphism Does Not Influence Cardiovascular Disease in a Latin American Population with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Amaya-Amaya Jenny , Rojas-Villarraga Adriana , Molano-Gonzalez Nicolas , Montoya-Sánchez Laura , Nath Swapan K. , Anaya Juan-Manuel
Published: May 2015

Objective. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common autoimmune arthropathy worldwide. The increased prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in RA is not fully explained by classic risk factors. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of rs1058587 SNP withinGDF15(MIC1)gene on the risk of CVD in a Colombian RA population.Methods. This was a cross-sectional analytical study in which 310 consecutive Colombian patients with RA and 228 age- and sex-matched controls were included and assessed for variables associated with CVD. The mixed cluster methodology based on multivariate descriptive methods such as principal components analysis and multiple correspondence analyses and regression tree (CART) predictive model were performed.Results. Of the 310 patients, 87.4% were women and CVD was reported in 69.5%. Significant differences concerningGDF15polymorphism were not observed between patients and controls. Mean arterial pressure, current smoking, and some clusters were significantly associated with CVD.Conclusion.GDF15(rs1058587) does not influence the development of CVD in the population studied.
Improving Osteogenesis Activity on BMP-2-Immobilized PCL Fibers Modified by theγ-Ray Irradiation Technique
Authors: Yun Young-Pil , Lee Jae Yong , Jeong Won Jae , Park Kyeongsoon , Kim Hak-Jun , Song Jae-Jun , Kim Sung Eun , Song Hae-Ryong
Published: May 2015

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the ability of BMP-2-immobilized polycaprolactone (PCL) fibers modified using theγ-ray irradiation technique to induce the osteogenic differentiation of MG-63 cells. Poly acrylic acid (AAc) was grafted onto the PCL fibers by theγ-ray irradiation technique. BMP-2 was then subsequently immobilized onto the AAc-PCL fibers (BMP-2/AAc-PCL). PCL and surface-modified PCL fibers was characterized by evaluation with a scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and contact angle. The biological activity of the PCL and surface-modified PCL fibers were characterized by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, calcium deposition, and the mRNA expression of osteocalcin and osteopontin in MG-63 cells. Successfully grafted AAc and PCL fibers with immobilized BMP-2 were confirmed by XPS results. The results of the contact angle showed that BMP-2/AAc-PCL fibers have more hydrophilic properties in comparison to PCL fibers. The ALP activity, calcium deposition, and gene expressions of MG-63 cells grown on BMP-2/AAc-PCL fibers showed greatly induced osteogenic differentiation in comparison to the PCL fibers. In conclusion, these results demonstrated that BMP-2/AAc-PCL fibers have the potential to effectively induce the osteogenic differentiation of MG-63 cells.
Human Urine as a Noninvasive Source of Kidney Cells
Authors: Oliveira Arcolino Fanny , Tort Piella Agnès , Papadimitriou Elli , Bussolati Benedetta , Antonie Daniel J. , Murray Patricia , van den Heuvel Lamberthus , Levtchenko Elena
Published: May 2015

Urine represents an unlimited source of patient-specific kidney cells that can be harvested noninvasively. Urine derived podocytes and proximal tubule cells have been used to study disease mechanisms and to screen for novel drug therapies in a variety of human kidney disorders. The urinary kidney stem/progenitor cells and extracellular vesicles, instead, might be promising for therapeutic treatments of kidney injury. The greatest advantages of urine as a source of viable cells are the easy collection and less complicated ethical issues. However, extensive characterization andin vivostudies still have to be performed before the clinical use of urine-derived kidney progenitors.
Chewing and Attention: A Positive Effect on Sustained Attention
Authors: Hirano Yoshiyuki , Onozuka Minoru
Published: May 2015

Chewing is crushing food not only to aid swallowing and digestion, but also to help stress relief and regulate cognitive function, especially in attention. It is well known that chewing gum is used for sleepiness prevention during work, learning, and driving, suggesting a link between chewing and sustained attention. We hypothesized that chewing elevates attention and/or alertness, leading to improvements in cognitive performance. We carried out a systematic review of the PubMed database. We inspected the attributes of effects on attention in studies investigating the effects of chewing on attention or alertness conducted with pre-post design in healthy subjects, except elderly. We identified 151 references, 22 of which were included: 14 (64%) showed positive attributes of effects on attention, 1 (5%) showed negative attributes of effects on attention, 5 (23%) showed both positive and negative attributes of effects on attention, and 2 (9%) showed no significant attributes of effects on attention. Thus, positive attributes of effects of chewing on attention, especially on sustained attention, were shown in over half of the reports. These effects also appeared with improvement in mood and stress relief and were influenced by time-on-task effect. Further studies are needed, but chewing could be useful for modifying cognitive function.
Targeting C‐Reactive Protein in Inflammatory Disease by Preventing Conformational Changes
Authors: Thiele J. R. , Zeller J. , Bannasch H. , Stark G. B. , Peter K. , Eisenhardt S. U.
Published: May 2015

C‐reactive protein (CRP) is a pentraxin that has long been employed as a marker of inflammation in clinical practice. Recent findings brought up the idea of CRP to be not only a systemic marker but also a mediator of inflammation. New studies focused on structural changes of the plasma protein, revealing the existence of two distinct protein conformations associated with opposed inflammatory properties. Native, pentameric CRP (pCRP) is considered to be the circulating precursor form of monomeric CRP (mCRP) that has been identified to be strongly proinflammatory. Recently, a dissociation mechanism of pCRP has been identified on activated platelets and activated/apoptotic cells associated with the amplification of the proinflammatory potential. Correspondingly, CRP deposits found in inflamed tissues have been identified to exhibit the monomeric conformation by using conformation‐specific antibodies. Here we review the current literature on the causal role of the dissociation mechanism of pCRP and the genesis of mCRP for the amplification of the proinflammatory potential in inflammatory reactions such as atherosclerosis and ischemia/reperfusion injury. The chance to prevent the formation of proinflammatory mediators in ubiquitous inflammatory cascades has pushed therapeutic strategies by targeting pCRP dissociation in inflammation. In this respect, the development of clinically applicable derivatives of the palindromic compound 1,6‐bis(phosphocholine)‐hexane (1,6‐bis PC) should be a major focus of future CRP research.
Molar Tooth Sign with Deranged Liver Function Tests: An Indian Case with COACH Syndrome
Authors: Sanjeev Rama Krishna , Kapoor Seema , Goyal Manisha , Kapur Rajiv , Gleeson Joseph Gerard
Published: May 2015

We report the first genetically proven case of COACH syndrome from the Indian subcontinent in a 6-year-old girl who presented with typical features of Joubert syndrome along with hepatic involvement. Mutation analysis revealed compound heterozygous missense mutation in the known geneTMEM67(also called MKS3).
A Novel Protein Interaction between Nucleotide Binding Domain of Hsp70 and p53 Motif
Authors: Elengoe Asita , Naser Mohammed Abu , Hamdan Salehhuddin
Published: May 2015

Currently, protein interaction ofHomo sapiensnucleotide binding domain (NBD) of heat shock 70 kDa protein (PDB: 1HJO) with p53 motif remains to be elucidated. The NBD-p53 motif complex enhances the p53 stabilization, thereby increasing the tumor suppression activity in cancer treatment. Therefore, we identified the interaction between NBD and p53 using STRING version 9.1 program. Then, we modeled the three-dimensional structure of p53 motif through homology modeling and determined the binding affinity and stability of NBD-p53 motif complex structure via molecular docking and dynamics (MD) simulation. Human DNA binding domain of p53 motif (SCMGGMNR) retrieved from UniProt (UniProtKB: P04637) was docked with the NBD protein, using the Autodock version 4.2 program. The binding energy and intermolecular energy for the NBD-p53 motif complex were −0.44 Kcal/mol and −9.90 Kcal/mol, respectively. Moreover, RMSD, RMSF, hydrogen bonds, salt bridge, and secondary structure analyses revealed that the NBD protein had a strong bond with p53 motif and the protein-ligand complex was stable. Thus, the current data would be highly encouraging for designing Hsp70 structure based drug in cancer therapy.
Iron-Binding Protein Degradation by Cysteine Proteases ofNaegleria fowleri
Authors: Martínez-Castillo Moisés , Ramírez-Rico Gerardo , Serrano-Luna Jesús , Shibayama Mineko
Published: May 2015

Naegleria fowlericauses acute and fulminant primary amoebic meningoencephalitis. This microorganism invades its host by penetrating the olfactory mucosa and then traveling up the mesaxonal spaces and crossing the cribriform plate; finally, the trophozoites invade the olfactory bulbs. During its invasion, the protozoan obtains nutrients such as proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and cationic ions (e.g., iron, calcium, and sodium) from the host. However, the mechanism by which these ions are obtained, particularly iron, is poorly understood. In the present study, we evaluated the ability ofN. fowlerito degrade iron-binding proteins, including hololactoferrin, transferrin, ferritin, and hemoglobin. Zymography assays were performed for each substrate under physiological conditions (pH 7 at 37°C) employing conditioned medium (CM) and total crude extracts (TCEs) ofN. fowleri. Different degradation patterns with CM were observed for hololactoferrin, transferrin, and hemoglobin; however, CM did not cause ferritin degradation. In contrast, the TCEs degraded only hololactoferrin and transferrin. Inhibition assays revealed that cysteine proteases were involved in this process. Based on these results, we suggest that CM and TCEs ofN. fowleridegrade iron-binding proteins by employing cysteine proteases, which enables the parasite to obtain iron to survive while invading the central nervous system.
Identification of Mitral Annulus Hinge Point Based on Local Context Feature and Additive SVM Classifier
Authors: Zhang Jianming , Liu Yangchun , Xu Wei
Published: May 2015

The position of the hinge point of mitral annulus (MA) is important for segmentation, modeling and multimodalities registration of cardiac structures. The main difficulties in identifying the hinge point of MA are the inherent noisy, low resolution of echocardiography, and so on. This work aims to automatically detect the hinge point of MA by combining local context feature with additive support vector machines (SVM) classifier. The innovations are as follows: (1) designing a local context feature for MA in cardiac ultrasound image; (2) applying the additive kernel SVM classifier to identify the candidates of the hinge point of MA; (3) designing a weighted density field of candidates which represents the blocks of candidates; and (4) estimating an adaptive threshold on the weighted density field to get the position of the hinge point of MA and exclude the error from SVM classifier. The proposed algorithm is tested on echocardiographic four-chamber image sequence of 10 pediatric patients. Compared with the manual selected hinge points of MA which are selected by professional doctors, the mean error is in 0.96 ± 1.04 mm. Additive SVM classifier can fast and accurately identify the MA hinge point.
A Randomised Controlled Trial to Delay or Prevent Type 2 Diabetes after Gestational Diabetes: Walking for Exercise and Nutrition to Prevent Diabetes for You
Authors: Peacock A. S. , Bogossian F. E. , Wilkinson S. A. , Gibbons K. S. , Kim C. , McIntyre H. D.
Published: May 2015

Aims. To develop a program to support behaviour changes for women with a history of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) and a Body Mass Index (BMI) > 25 kg/m2to delay or prevent Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.Methods. Women diagnosed with GDM in the previous 6 to 24 months and BMI > 25 kg/m2were randomized to an intervention (I) (n=16) or a control (C) (n=15) group. The intervention was a pedometer program combined with nutrition coaching, with the primary outcome increased weight loss in the intervention group. Secondary outcomes included decreased waist and hip measurements, improved insulin sensitivity and body composition, increased physical activity, and improved self-efficacy in eating behaviours.Results. Median (IQR) results were as follows: weight: I −2.5 (2.3) kg versus C +0.2 (1.6) kg (P=0.009), waist: I −3.6 (4.5) cm versus C −0.1 (3.6) cm (P=0.07), and hip: I −5.0 (3.3) cm versus C −0.2 (2.6) cm (P=0.002). There was clinical improvement in physical activity and eating behaviours and no significant changes in glucose metabolism or body composition.Conclusion. A pedometer program and nutrition coaching proved effective in supporting weight loss, waist circumference, physical activity, and eating behaviours in women with previous GDM.
Physicochemical and Biological Characterization of a Biosimilar Trastuzumab
Authors: López-Morales Carlos A. , Miranda-Hernández Mariana P. , Juárez-Bayardo L. Carmina , Ramírez-Ibáñez Nancy D. , Romero-Díaz Alexis J. , Piña-Lara Nelly , Campos-García Víctor R. , Pérez Néstor O. , Flores-Ortiz Luis F. , Medina-Rivero Emilio
Published: May 2015

According to the World Health Organization, the incidence of malignant neoplasms and endocrine, blood, and immune disorders will increase in the upcoming decades along with the demand of affordable treatments. In response to this need, the development of biosimilar drugs is increasing worldwide. The approval of biosimilars relies on the compliance with international guidelines, starting with the demonstration of similarity in their physicochemical and functional properties against the reference product. Subsequent clinical studies are performed to demonstrate similar pharmacological behavior and to diminish the uncertainty related to their safety and efficacy. Herein we present a comparability exercise between a biosimilar trastuzumab and its reference product, by using a hierarchical strategy with an orthogonal approach, to assess the physicochemical and biological attributes with potential impact on its pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and immunogenicity. Our results showed that the high degree of similarity in the physicochemical attributes of the biosimilar trastuzumab with respect to the reference product resulted in comparable biological activity, demonstrating that a controlled process is able to provide consistently the expected product. These results also constitute the basis for the design of subsequent delimited pharmacological studies, as they diminish the uncertainty of exhibiting different profiles.
Effect of Particle Size of Additives on the Flammability and Mechanical Properties of Intumescent Flame Retarded Polypropylene Compounds
Authors: Bocz Katalin , Krain Tamás , Marosi György
Published: May 2015

The effect of particle size reduction of the components of a common intumescent flame retardant system, consisting of pentaerythritol (PER) and ammonium polyphosphate (APP) in a weight ratio of 1 to 2, was investigated on the flammability and mechanical performance of flame retarded polypropylene (PP) compounds. Additives of reduced particle size were obtained by ball milling. In the case of PER, the significant reduction of particle size resulted in inferior flame retardant and mechanical performance, while the systems containing milled APP noticeably outperformed the reference intumescent system containing as-received additives. The beneficial effect of the particle size reduction of APP is explained by the better distribution of the particles in the polymer matrix and by the modified degradation mechanism which results in the formation of an effectively protecting carbonaceous foam accompanied with improved mechanical resistance. Nevertheless, 10% higher tensile strength was measured for the flame retarded PP compound when as-received APP was substituted by milled APP.
Swimming Activity Prevents the Unloading Induced Loss of Bone Mass, Architecture, and Strength in Rats
Authors: Falcai Maurício J. , Zamarioli Ariane , Leoni Graziela Bianchi , Sousa Neto Manoel Damião de , Volpon Jose B.
Published: May 2015

We investigated whether swimming activity associated with a three-week period of hypoactivity could prevent the deleterious effects of disuse on the tibias of tail-suspended rats. Forty Wistar rats were divided into five groups: (HS) permanently hindlimb suspension rats; (HS + Swim) rats submitted to unloading interrupted by swimming exercise; (HS + WB) hindlimb suspension rats with interruption for regular weight bearing for the same length of time as the HS+Swim rats; (Control) control rats that were allowed regular cage activities; and (Control + Swim) control rats that underwent swimming exercise. At the end of the experiment, bone mineral density, bone strength, and trabecular quantification were analyzed. The hindlimb-suspended rats exhibited bone quality loss (significant decrease in BMD, bone strength, and deterioration of trabecular and cortical bone architecture; decrease in BV/TV, TbN, TbTh, ConnD, CtV, and CtTh; and increase in TbSp) when compared to control rats. In contrast, trained rats showed a significant increase of 43% in bone mass, 29% in bone strength, 58% in trabecular thickness, 85% in bone volume, 27% in trabeculae number, and 30% in cortical volume, when compared to the hindlimb-suspended rats. We conclude that swimming activity not only ameliorates but also fully prevents the deleterious effects on bone quality in osteopenic rats.
Expression and Characterization ofGeobacillus stearothermophilusSR74 Recombinantα-Amylase inPichia pastoris
Authors: Gandhi Sivasangkary , Salleh Abu Bakar , Rahman Raja Noor Zaliha Raja Abd , Chor Leow Thean , Oslan Siti Nurbaya
Published: May 2015

Geobacillus stearothermophilusSR74 is a locally isolated thermophilic bacteria producing thermostable and thermoactiveα-amylase. Increased production and commercialization of thermostableα-amylase strongly warrant the need of a suitable expression system. In this study, the gene encoding the thermostableα-amylase inG. stearothermophilusSR74 was amplified, sequenced, and subcloned intoP. pastorisGS115 strain under the control of a methanol inducible promoter, alcohol oxidase (AOX). Methanol induced recombinant expression and secretion of the protein resulted in high levels of extracellular amylase production. YPTM medium supplemented with methanol (1% v/v) was the best medium and once optimized, the maximum recombinantα-amylase SR74 achieved in shake flask was 28.6 U mL−1at 120 h after induction. The recombinant 59 kDaα-amylase SR74 was purified 1.9-fold using affinity chromatography with a product yield of 52.6% and a specific activity of 151.8 U mg−1. The optimum pH ofα-amylase SR74 was 7.0 and the enzyme was stable between pH 6.0–8.0. The purified enzyme was thermostable and thermoactive, exhibiting maximum activity at 65°C with a half-life (t1/2) of 88 min at 60°C. In conclusion, thermostableα-amylase SR74 fromG. stearothermophilusSR74 would be beneficial for industrial applications, especially in liquefying saccrification.
Trophic Factors from Tissue Stem Cells for Renal Regeneration
Authors: Tsuji Kenji , Kitamura Shinji
Published: May 2015

Stem cell therapies against renal injury have been advancing. The many trials for renal regeneration are reported to be effective in many kinds of renal injury models. Regarding the therapeutic mechanism, it is believed that stem cells contribute to make regeneration via not only direct stem cell differentiation in the injured space but also indirect effect via secreted factors from stem cells. Direct differentiation from stem cells to renal composed cells has been reported. They differentiate to renal composed cells and make functions. However, regarding renal regeneration, stem cells are discussed to secrete many kinds of growth factors, cytokines, and chemokines in paracrine or autocrine manner, which protect against renal injury, too. In addition, it is reported that stem cells have the ability to communicate with nearby cells via microvesicle-related RNA and proteins. Taken together from many reports, many secreted factors from stem cells were needed for renal regeneration orchestrally with harmony. In this review, we focused on the effects and insights of stem cells and regenerative factors from stem cells.
Suppression of Specular Reflections by Metasurface with Engineered Nonuniform Distribution of Reflection Phase
Authors: Yang Xin Mi , Jiang Ge Lan , Liu Xue Guan , Weng Cheng Xiang
Published: May 2015

We make preliminary investigations on a new approach to reducing radar cross section (RCS) of conducting objects. This approach employs novel planar metasurfaces characterizing nonuniform distribution of reflection phase. The operation principle of this approach and the design rule of the associated metasurfaces are explained using a simplified theoretical model. We then present a design example of such metasurfaces, in which three-layer stacked square patches with variable sizes are utilized as the reflecting elements. The proposed RCS-reduction approach is verified by both numerical simulations and measurements on the example, under the assumption of normal plane wave incidence. It is observed that, in a fairly wide frequency band (from 3.6 to 5.5 GHz), the presented example is capable of suppressing the specular reflections of conducting plates significantly (by more than 7 dB) for two orthogonal incident polarizations.
Local Angiotensin Pathways in Human Carotid Atheroma: Towards a Systems Biology Approach
Authors: Bricca Giampiero , Legedz Liliana , Nehme Ali , Ayari Hanène , Paultre Christian , Hodroj Wassim , Li Jacques-Yuan , Randon Jacques , Lohez Olivier , Dhaouadi Nedra , Gustin Marie Paule , Cerutti Catherine
Published: May 2015

We will summarize the data we have obtained in human carotid artery concerning the organization of an extended local renin angiotensin aldosterone system and its variations at different stages of atheroma. In a system view, we propose a model where concomitant increase in angiotensin and glucocorticoid signaling is induced and amplified in VSMC while vascular smooth muscle cells transdifferentiate toward a lipid storing phenotype.
The Dual Role of Nrf2 in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Regulation of Antioxidant Defenses and Hepatic Lipid Metabolism
Authors: Chambel Sílvia S. , Santos-Gonçalves Andreia , Duarte Tiago L.
Published: May 2015

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a progressive liver disease with ever-growing incidence in the industrialized world. It starts with the simple accumulation of lipids in the hepatocyte and can progress to the more severe nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which is associated with inflammation, fibrosis, and cirrhosis. There is increasing awareness that reactive oxygen species and electrophiles are implicated in the pathogenesis of NASH. Transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a positive regulator of the expression of a battery of genes involved in the protection against oxidative/electrophilic stress. In rodents, Nrf2 is also known to participate in hepatic fatty acid metabolism, as a negative regulator of genes that promote hepatosteatosis. We review relevant evidence in the literature that these two mechanisms may contribute to the protective role of Nrf2 in the development of hepatic steatosis and in the progression to steatohepatitis, particularly in young animals. We propose that age may be a key to explain contradictory findings in the literature. In summary, Nrf2 mediates the crosstalk between lipid metabolism and antioxidant defense mechanisms in experimental models of NAFLD, and the nutritional or pharmacological induction of Nrf2 represents a promising potential new strategy for its prevention and treatment.
Recent Experiences and Advances in Contrast-Enhanced Subharmonic Ultrasound
Authors: Eisenbrey John R. , Sridharan Anush , Liu Ji-Bin , Forsberg Flemming
Published: May 2015

Nonlinear contrast-enhanced ultrasound imaging schemes strive to suppress tissue signals in order to better visualize nonlinear signals from blood-pooling ultrasound contrast agents. Because tissue does not generate a subharmonic response (i.e., signal at half the transmit frequency), subharmonic imaging has been proposed as a method for isolating ultrasound microbubble signals while suppressing surrounding tissue signals. In this paper, we summarize recent advances in the use of subharmonic imagingin vivo. These advances include the implementation of subharmonic imaging on linear and curvilinear arrays, intravascular probes, and three-dimensional probes for breast, renal, liver, plaque, and tumor imaging.
Transferrin: Endocytosis and Cell Signaling in Parasitic Protozoa
Authors: Reyes-López Magda , Piña-Vázquez Carolina , Serrano-Luna Jesús
Published: May 2015

Iron is the fourth most abundant element on Earth and the most abundant metal in the human body. This element is crucial for life because almost all organisms need iron for several biological activities. This is the case with pathogenic organisms, which are at the vanguard in the battle with the human host for iron. The latest regulates Fe concentration through several iron-containing proteins, such as transferrin. The transferrin receptor transports iron to each cell that needs it and maintains it away from pathogens. Parasites have developed several strategies to obtain iron as the expression of specific transferrin receptors localized on plasma membrane, internalized through endocytosis. Signal transduction pathways related to the activation of the receptor have functional importance in proliferation. The study of transferrin receptors and other proteins with action in the signaling networks is important because these proteins could be used as therapeutic targets due to their specificity or to differences with the human counterpart. In this work, we describe proteins that participate in signal transduction processes, especially those that involve transferrin endocytosis, and we compare these processes with those found inT. brucei,T. cruzi,Leishmaniaspp., andE. histolyticaparasites.
Assurance of Medical Device Quality with Quality Management System: An Analysis of Good Manufacturing Practice Implementation in Taiwan
Authors: Li Tzu-Wei , Tu Pei-Weng , Liu Li-Ling , Wu Shiow-Ing
Published: May 2015

The implementation of an effective quality management system has always been considered a principal method for a manufacturer to maintain and improve its product and service quality. Globally many regulatory authorities incorporate quality management system as one of the mandatory requirements for the regulatory control of high-risk medical devices. The present study aims to analyze the GMP enforcement experience in Taiwan between 1998 and 2013. It describes the regulatory implementation of medical device GMP requirement and initiatives taken to assist small and medium-sized enterprises in compliance with the regulatory requirement. Based on statistical data collected by the competent authority and industry research institutes, the present paper reports the growth of Taiwan local medical device industry after the enforcement of GMP regulation. Transition in the production, technologies, and number of employees of Taiwan medical device industry between 1998 and 2013 provides the competent authorities around the world with an empirical foundation for further policy development.
Revealing Genomic Profile That Underlies Tropism of Myeloma Cells Using Whole Exome Sequencing
Authors: Koh Youngil , Kim Daeyoon , Jung Woo-June , Ahn Kwang-Sung , Yoon Sung-Soo
Published: May 2015

Background.Previously we established two cell lines (SNU_MM1393_BM and SNU_MM1393_SC) from different tissues (bone marrow and subcutis) of mice which were injected with single patient’s myeloma sample. We tried to define genetic changes specific for each cell line using whole exome sequencing (WES).Materials and Methods.We extracted DNA from SNU_MM1393_BM and SNU_MM1393_SC and performed WES. For single nucleotide variants (SNV) calling, we used Varscan2. Annotation of mutation was performed using ANNOVAR.Results.When calling of somatic mutations was performed, 68 genes were nonsynonymously mutated only in SNU_MM1393_SC, while 136 genes were nonsynonymously mutated only in SNU_MM1393_BM.KIAA1199, FRY, AP3B2,andOPTCwere representative genes specifically mutated in SNU_MM1393_SC. When comparison analysis was performed using TCGA data, mutational pattern of SNU_MM1393_SC resembled that of melanoma mostly. Pathway analysis using KEGG database showed that mutated genes specific of SNU_MM1393_BM were related to differentiation, while those of SNU_MM1393_SC were related to tumorigenesis.Conclusion.We found out genetic changes that underlie tropism of myeloma cells using WES. Genetic signature of cutaneous plasmacytoma shares that of melanoma implying common mechanism for skin tropism.KIAA1199, FRY, AP3B2,andOPTCare candidate genes for skin tropism of cancers.
Parthenolide Relieves Pain and Promotes M2 Microglia/Macrophage Polarization in Rat Model of Neuropathy
Authors: Popiolek-Barczyk Katarzyna , Kolosowska Natalia , Piotrowska Anna , Makuch Wioletta , Rojewska Ewelina , Jurga Agnieszka M. , Pilat Dominika , Mika Joanna
Published: May 2015

Neuropathic pain treatment remains a challenge because pathomechanism is not fully understood. It is believed that glial activation and increased spinal nociceptive factors are crucial for neuropathy. We investigated the effect of parthenolide (PTL) on the chronic constriction injury to the sciatic nerve (CCI)-induced neuropathy in rat. We analyzed spinal changes in glial markers and M1 and M2 polarization factors, as well as intracellular signaling pathways. PTL (5 µg;i.t.) was preemptively and then daily administered for 7 days after CCI. PTL attenuated the allodynia and hyperalgesia and increased the protein level of IBA1 (a microglial/macrophage marker) but did not change GFAP (an astrocyte marker) on day 7 after CCI. PTL reduced the protein level of M1 (IL-1β, IL-18, and iNOS) and enhanced M2 (IL-10, TIMP1) factors. In addition, it downregulated the phosphorylated form of NF-κB, p38MAPK, and ERK1/2 protein level and upregulated STAT3. In primary microglial cell culture we have shown that IL-1β, IL-18, iNOS, IL-6, IL-10, and TIMP1 are of microglial origin. Summing up, PTL directly or indirectly attenuates neuropathy symptoms and promotes M2 microglia/macrophages polarization. We suggest that neuropathic pain therapies should be shifted from blanketed microglia/macrophage suppression toward maintenance of the balance between neuroprotective and neurotoxic microglia/macrophage phenotypes.
A Novel Multiobject Tracking Approach in the Presence of Collision and Division
Authors: Lu Mingli , Xu Benlian , Sheng Andong , Jiang Zhengqiang , Wang Liping , Zhu Peiyi , Shi Jian
Published: May 2015

This paper aims to develop a general framework for accurately tracking and quantitatively characterizing multiple cells (objects) when collision and division between cells arise. Through introducing three types of interaction events among cells, namely, independence, collision, and division, the corresponding dynamic models are defined and an augmented interacting multiple model particle filter tracking algorithm is first proposed for spatially adjacent cells with varying size. In addition, to reduce the ambiguity of correspondence between frames, both the estimated cell dynamic parameters and cell size are further utilized to identify cells of interest. The experiments have been conducted on two real cell image sequences characterized with cells collision, division, or number variation, and the resulting dynamic parameters such as instant velocity, turn rate were obtained and analyzed.
Mass Spectral Profile for Rapid Differentiating Beta-Lactams from Their Ring-Opened Impurities
Authors: Wang Hecheng , Huang Haiwei , Cao Jin , Chui Dehua , Xiao Shengyuan
Published: May 2015

High performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC MS) has been widely used forβ-lactam antibiotics determination. However, its application to identify impurities of these frequently used drugs is not sufficient at present. In this job, characteristic profiles of the collision induced dissociation (CID) spectra of bothβ-lactams and ring-openedβ-lactams were extracted from the MS data of sixβ-lactam antibiotics and their forty-five impurities, and were confirmed by the MS data reported in the literature. These characteristics have been successfully applied to rapid differentiation ofβ-lactam and ring-openedβ-lactam impurities in cefixime, cefdinir, and cefaclor. However, these characteristic profiles can only be obtained under low activating voltage. They did not display in the high energy activated CID spectra. Diagnostic fragmentations for determining the localization of double bond and substituents on the thiazine ring and the side chain were also observed. In addition, several characteristic fragmentations are hopeful to be used to differentiate the configurations of C-2 on the thiazine ring of ring-opened impurities, which is generally disadvantageous of mass spectrometry. Taken together, forty-five impurities were identified from the capsules of cefixime, cefdinir, and cefaclor.
Do Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs Cause Endoprosthetic Loosening? Mid- to Long-Term Follow-Up of 100 Total Hip Arthroplasties after Local NSAID Infiltration
Authors: Nizam Ikram , Kohan Lawrence , Field Clarice , Kerr Dennis
Published: May 2015

We evaluated the effect of local infiltration of NSAIDs on prosthetic fixation at mid- to long-term follow-up of total hip arthroplasties. Intra-articular local NSAID (ketorolac) was injected into hip joints and surrounding tissues intraoperatively and postoperatively as a part of multimodal pain management protocol. Clinical and radiographic evaluation was performed for any evidence of component loosening or failure and clinical outcomes in 100 total hip joint arthroplasties with a mean follow-up of 7.3 years (4.9 to 11 yrs). Radiographic analysis at the most recent follow-up showed no evidence of loosening, subsidence, or migration and no evidence of impending failure. Clinical outcomes showed improved Harris hip scores. Intra-articular NSAID used in the intraoperative/postoperative period in hip arthroplasty showed no evidence of prosthetic loosening at mid- to long-term follow-up.
Maternal Alcohol Consumption during Pregnancy and Early Age Leukemia Risk in Brazil
Authors: Ferreira Jeniffer Dantas , Couto Arnaldo Cézar , Emerenciano Mariana , Pombo-de-Oliveira Maria S. , Koifman Sergio
Published: May 2015

Objectives. To investigate the association between the maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy and early age leukemia (EAL) in offspring.Methods. Datasets were analyzed from a case-control study carried out in Brazil during 1999–2007. Data were obtained by maternal interviews using a standardized questionnaire. The present study included 675 children (193 acute lymphoid leukemia (ALL), 59 acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and 423 controls). Unconditional logistic regression was performed, and adjusted odds ratios (adj. OR) on the association between alcohol consumption and EAL were ascertained.Results. Alcohol consumption was reported by 43% of ALL and 39% of AML case mothers and 35.5% of controls’. Beer consumption before and during pregnancy was associated with ALL in crude analysis (OR = 1.54, 95% CI, 1.08–2.19), although in adjusted analysis no statistical significance was found. For weekly intake of ≤1 glass (adj. OR = 1.30, 95% CI, 0.71–2.36) and ≥1 glass/week (adj. OR = 1.47, 95% CI, 0.88–2.46) a potential dose-response was observed (Ptrend < 0.03).Conclusion. This study failed to support the hypothesis of an increased risk of EAL associated with maternal alcohol intake during pregnancy, neither with the interaction with tobacco nor with alcohol consumption.
The Difference Quantity of Urinary Peptides between Two Groups of Type 2 Diabetic Patients with or without Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Fu Guangzhen , Hu Mei , Chu Lina , Zhang Man
Published: May 2015

Objectives. We aim to explore urinary biomarkers that could monitor CAD in type 2 diabetic patients.Materials and Methods. Urine samples from two groups, twenty-eight type 2 diabetic patients with coexisting CAD and thirty type 2 diabetic patients without CAD, were purified by MB-WCX and then analyzed by MALDI-TOF-MS. Subsequently, we compared the urinary peptide signatures of the two groups by use of ClinProTools2.1 and evaluated the potential ability of the differently expressed peptides to distinguish type 2 diabetic patients with coexisting CAD from type 2 diabetic patients without CAD by ROC analysis. Finally, the differently expressed peptides were identified by nanoliquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.Results. There were six differently expressed peptides (m/z1305.2, 1743.9, 2184.9, 2756.1, 3223.2, and 6196.1) between the two groups of subjects, and they were identified as fragments of isoform 1 of fibrinogen alpha chain precursor, prothrombin precursor, and interalpha-trypsin inhibitor heavy chain H4. The diagnostic efficacy ofm/z2756.1 andm/z3223.2 was better than the other peptides. Area under ROC of them/z2756.1, andm/z3223.2 was 0.98 and 0.93, respectively.Conclusions. These urinary peptides are potential urinary biomarkers for monitoring of type 2 diabetic patients with CAD.
Methotrexate, Cyclosporine A, and Biologics Protect against Atherosclerosis in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Kisiel Bartłomiej , Kruszewski Robert , Juszkiewicz Aleksandra , Raczkiewicz Anna , Bachta Artur , Tłustochowicz Małgorzata , Staniszewska-Varga Jadwiga , Kłos Krzysztof , Duda Krzysztof , Bogusławska-Walecka Romana , Płoski Rafał , Tłustochowicz Witold
Published: May 2015

Introduction. The risk of cardiovascular disease is increased in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A meta-analysis showed increased intima media thickness (IMT) in RA. It has been shown that disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) may influence the progression of atherosclerosis. However, it was suggested that biologics may be more efficient than other DMARDs (including methotrexate—MTX) in protecting against atherosclerosis.Objectives. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of different RA characteristics and treatment regimens on IMT and atherosclerotic plaques.Patients and Methods. 317 RA patients and 111 controls were included in the study. IMT was measured in carotid (CIMT) and femoral (FIMT) arteries. Arteries were screened for the presence of plaques.Results. CIMT, FIMT, and prevalence of plaques were lower in patients treated with methotrexate (MTX) ≥ 20 mg/wk, cyclosporine (CsA), or biologics than in patients treated with lower doses of MTX and other disease modifying antirheumatic drugs. No differences in IMT between patients treated with MTX ≥ 20 mg/wk, biologics, or CsA were found.Conclusions. We found a beneficial effect of MTX ≥ 20 mg/wk, biologics, and CsA on atherosclerosis. We do not confirm a stronger influence of biologics on IMT compared with therapeutic doses of MTX.