bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mutation‐Specific Phenotypes in hiPSC‐Derived Cardiomyocytes Carrying Either Myosin‐Binding Protein C Or α‐Tropomyosin Mutation for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Ojala Marisa , Prajapati Chandra , Pölönen Risto-Pekka , Rajala Kristiina , Pekkanen-Mattila Mari , Rasku Jyrki , Larsson Kim , Aalto-Setälä Katriina
Published: December 2015

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetic cardiac disease, which affects the structure of heart muscle tissue. The clinical symptoms include arrhythmias, progressive heart failure, and even sudden cardiac death but the mutation carrier can also be totally asymptomatic. To date, over 1400 mutations have been linked to HCM, mostly in genes encoding for sarcomeric proteins. However, the pathophysiological mechanisms of the disease are still largely unknown. Two founder mutations for HCM in Finland are located in myosin‐binding protein C (MYBPC3-Gln1061X) and α‐tropomyosin (TPM1-Asp175Asn) genes. We studied the properties of HCM cardiomyocytes (CMs) derived from patient‐specific human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) carrying either MYBPC3-Gln1061X or TPM1-Asp175Asn mutation. Both types of HCM‐CMs displayed pathological phenotype of HCM but, more importantly, we found differences between CMs carrying either MYBPC3-Gln1061X or TPM1-Asp175Asn gene mutation in their cellular size, Ca2+ handling, and electrophysiological properties, as well as their gene expression profiles. These findings suggest that even though the clinical phenotypes of the patients carrying either MYBPC3-Gln1061X or TPM1-Asp175Asn gene mutation are similar, the genetic background as well as the functional properties on the cellular level might be different, indicating that the pathophysiological mechanisms behind the two mutations would be divergent as well.
Development of QCM Biosensor with Specific Cow Milk Protein Antibody for Candidate Milk Adulteration Detection
Authors: Sakti Setyawan P. , Chabibah Nur , Ayu Senja P. , Padaga Masdiana C. , Aulanni’am Aulanni’am
Published: December 2015

Adulteration of goat milk is usually done using cow’s milk product. Cow milk is used as it is widely available and its price is cheaper compared to goat milk. This paper shows a development of candidate tools for milk adulteration using cow milk. A quartz crystal microbalance immunosensor was developed using commercial crystal resonator and polyclonal antibody specific to cow milk protein. A specific protein at 208 KDa is found only in cow milk and does not exist in goat milk. The existence of this protein can be used as an indicator of cow milk content in a target solution. To detect the PSS 208 kDa protein, antibody specific to the PSS 208 was developed. The purified antibody was immobilized on top of the sensor surface on a polystyrene layer. The fraction of the immobilized antibody on the sensor was found at 1.5% of the given antibody. Using a static reaction cell, the developed immunosensor could detect the specific cow milk protein in buffer solution. The detection limit is 1 ppm. A linear relationship between frequency change and specific protein of cow milk concentration is found from a concentration of 1 ppm to 120 ppm.
Immune Cells and Inflammation in Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Zheng Zihan , Zheng Feng
Published: December 2015

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a serious complication of diabetes. At its core, DN is a metabolic disorder which can also manifest itself in terms of local inflammation in the kidneys. Such inflammation can then drive the classical markers of fibrosis and structural remodeling. As a result, resolution of immune-mediated inflammation is critical towards achieving a cure for DN. Many immune cells play a part in DN, including key members of both the innate and adaptive immune systems. While these cells were classically understood to primarily function against pathogen insult, it has also become increasingly clear that they also serve a major role as internal sensors of damage. In fact, damage sensing may serve as the impetus for much of the inflammation that occurs in DN, in a vicious positive feedback cycle. Although direct targeting of these proinflammatory cells may be difficult, new approaches that focus on their metabolic profiles may be able to alleviate DN significantly, especially since dysregulation of the local metabolic environment may well be responsible for triggering inflammation to begin with. In this review, the authors consider the metabolic profile of several relevant immune types and discuss their respective roles.
The Improvement of DS Evidence Theory and Its Application in IR/MMW Target Recognition
Authors: Li Yibing , Chen Jie , Ye Fang , Liu Dandan
Published: December 2015

ATR system has a broad application prospect in the military field, especially in the field of modern defense technology. When paradoxes are in existence in ATR system due to adverse battlefield environment, integration cannot be effectively and reliably carried out only by traditional DS evidence theory. In this paper, a modified DS evidence theory is presented and applied in IR/MMW target recognition system. The improvement of DS evidence theory is realized by three parts: the introduction of sensor priority and evidence credibility to realize the discount processing of evidences, the modification of DS combination rule to enhance the accuracy of synthesis results, and the compound decision-making rule. The application of the modified algorithm in IR/MMW system is designed to deal with paradoxes, improve the target recognition rate, and ensure the reliability of target recognition system. Experiments are given to illustrate that the introduction of the modified DS evidence theory in IR/MMW system is better able to realize satisfactory target recognition performance through multisensor information fusion than any single-mode system.
BQ123 Stimulates Skeletal Muscle Antioxidant Defense via Nrf2 Activation in LPS‐Treated Rats
Authors: Kowalczyk Agata , Jeleń Agnieszka , Żebrowska Marta , Balcerczak Ewa , Gorąca Anna
Published: December 2015

Little is understood of skeletal muscle tissue in terms of oxidative stress and inflammation. Endothelin‐1 is an endogenous, vasoconstrictive peptide which can induce overproduction of reactive oxygen species and proinflammatory cytokines. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether BQ123, an endothelin‐A receptor antagonist, influences the level of TNF‐α, IL‐6, SOD‐1, HO‐1, Nrf2 mRNA, and NF‐κB subunit RelA/p65 mRNA in the femoral muscle obtained from endotoxemic rats. Male Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups (n = 6) and received iv (1) saline (control), (2) LPS (15 mg/kg), (3) BQ123 (1 mg/kg), (4) BQ123 (1 mg/kg), and LPS (15 mg/kg, resp.) 30 min later. Injection of LPS led to significant increase in levels of RelA/p65 mRNA, TNF‐α, and IL‐6, while content of SOD‐1, HO‐1, and Nrf2 mRNA was unchanged. Administration of BQ123 prior to LPS challenge resulted in a significant reduction in RelA/p65 mRNA, TNF‐α, and IL‐6 levels, as well as markedly elevated concentrations of SOD‐1, HO‐1, and Nrf2 mRNA. BQ123 appears to enhance antioxidant defense and prevent production of TNF‐α and IL‐6 in skeletal muscle of LPS‐treated rat. In conclusion, endothelin‐A receptor antagonism exerts significant impact on the skeletal muscle favouring anti‐inflammatory effects and protection against oxidative stress.
Modulation of Hydrogen Peroxide‐Induced Oxidative Stress in Human Neuronal Cells by Thymoquinone‐Rich Fraction and Thymoquinone via Transcriptomic Regulation of Antioxidant and Apoptotic Signaling Genes
Authors: Ismail Norsharina , Ismail Maznah , Azmi Nur Hanisah , Abu Bakar Muhammad Firdaus , Basri Hamidon , Abdullah Maizaton Atmadini
Published: December 2015

Nigella sativa Linn. (N. sativa) and its bioactive constituent Thymoquinone (TQ) have demonstrated numerous pharmacological attributes. In the present study, the neuroprotective properties of Thymoquinone‐rich fraction (TQRF) and TQ against hydrogen peroxide‐ (H2O2‐) induced neurotoxicity in differentiated human SH‐SY5Y cells were investigated. TQRF was extracted using supercritical fluid extraction while TQ was acquired commercially, and their effects on H2O2 were evaluated using cell viability assay, reactive oxygen species (ROS) assay, morphological observation, and multiplex gene expression. Both TQRF and TQ protected the cells against H2O2 by preserving the mitochondrial metabolic enzymes, reducing intracellular ROS levels, preserving morphological architecture, and modulating the expression of genes related to antioxidants (SOD1, SOD2, and catalase) and signaling genes (p53, AKT1, ERK1/2, p38 MAPK, JNK, and NF‐κβ). In conclusion, the enhanced efficacy of TQRF over TQ was likely due to the synergism of multiple constituents in TQRF. The efficacy of TQRF was better than that of TQ alone when equal concentrations of TQ in TQRF were compared. In addition, TQRF also showed comparable effects to TQ when the same concentrations were tested. These findings provide further support for the use of TQRF as an alternative to combat oxidative stress insults in neurodegenerative diseases.
From Six Gene Polymorphisms of the Antioxidant System, Only GPX Pro198Leu and GSTP1 Ile105Val Modulate the Risk of Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Bănescu Claudia , Iancu Mihaela , Trifa Adrian P. , Cândea Marcela , Benedek Lazar Erzsebet , Moldovan Valeriu G. , Duicu Carmen , Tripon Florin , Crauciuc Andrei , Dobreanu Minodora
Published: December 2015

Oxidative stress might contribute to the occurrence of cancers, including the hematological ones. Various genetic polymorphisms were shown to increase the quantity of reactive oxygen species, a phenomenon that is able to induce mutations and thus promote cancers. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the association between CAT C262T, GPX1 Pro198Leu, MnSOD Ala16Val, GSTM1, GSTT1, and GSTP1 Ile105Val gene polymorphisms and acute myeloid leukemia risk, in a case‐control study comprising 102 patients and 303 controls. No association was observed between AML and variant genotypes of CAT, MnSOD, GSTM1, and GSTT1 polymorphisms. Our data revealed a statistically significant difference regarding the frequencies of GPX1 Pro198Leu and GSTP1 Ile105Val variant genotypes between AML patients and controls (p < 0.001). Our results showed no association in the distribution of any of the CAT C262T, GPX1 Pro198Leu, GSTM1, GSTT1, and GSTP1 polymorphisms regarding age, gender, FAB subtype, cytogenetic risk groups, FLT3 and DNMT3 gene mutations, and overall survival. Our data suggests that the presence of variant allele and genotype of GPX1 Pro198Leu and GSTP1 Ile105Val gene polymorphisms may modulate the risk of developing AML.
Damage Detection and Localization from Dense Network of Strain Sensors
Authors: Laflamme Simon , Cao Liang , Chatzi Eleni , Ubertini Filippo
Published: December 2015

Structural health monitoring of large systems is a complex engineering task due to important practical issues. When dealing with large structures, damage diagnosis, localization, and prognosis necessitate a large number of sensors, which is a nontrivial task due to the lack of scalability of traditional sensing technologies. In order to address this challenge, the authors have recently proposed a novel sensing solution consisting of a low-cost soft elastomeric capacitor that transduces surface strains into measurable changes in capacitance. This paper demonstrates the potential of this technology for damage detection, localization, and prognosis when utilized in dense network configurations over large surfaces. A wind turbine blade is adopted as a case study, and numerical simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of a data-driven algorithm relying on distributed strain data in evidencing the presence and location of damage, and sequentially ranking its severity. Numerical results further show that the soft elastomeric capacitor may outperform traditional strain sensors in damage identification as it provides additive strain measurements without any preferential direction. Finally, simulation with reconstruction of measurements from missing or malfunctioning sensors using the concepts of virtual sensors and Kriging demonstrates the robustness of the proposed condition assessment methodology for sparser or malfunctioning grids.
Inhibition of the RhoA GTPase Activity Increases Sensitivity of Melanoma Cells to UV Radiation Effects
Authors: Espinha Gisele , Osaki Juliana Harumi , Costa Erico Tosoni , Forti Fabio Luis
Published: December 2015

Ultraviolet radiation is the main cause of DNA damage to melanocytes and development of melanoma, one of the most lethal human cancers, which leads to metastasis due to uncontrolled cell proliferation and migration. These phenotypes are mediated by RhoA, a GTPase overexpressed or overactivated in highly aggressive metastatic tumors that plays regulatory roles in cell cycle progression and cytoskeleton remodeling. This work explores whether the effects of UV on DNA damage, motility, proliferation, and survival of human metastatic melanoma cells are mediated by the RhoA pathway. Mutant cells expressing dominant‐negative (MeWo‐RhoA‐N19) or constitutively active RhoA (MeWo‐RhoA‐V14) were generated and subjected to UV radiation. A slight reduction in migration and invasion was observed in MeWo and MeWo‐RhoA‐V14 cells but not in MeWo‐RhoA‐N19 cells, which presented inefficient motility and invasiveness associated with stress fibers fragmentation. Proliferation and survival of RhoA‐deficient cells were drastically reduced by UV compared to cells displaying normal or high RhoA activity, suggesting increased sensitivity to UV. Loss of RhoA activity also caused less efficient DNA repair, with elevated levels of DNA lesions such as strand breaks and cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs). Thus, RhoA mediates genomic stability and represents a potential target for sensitizing metastatic tumors to genotoxic agents.
Optimal Value of Series Capacitors for Uniform Field Distribution in Transmission Line MRI Coils
Authors: Zhurbenko Vitaliy
Published: December 2015

Transmission lines are often used as coils in high field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Due to the distributed nature of transmission lines, coils based on them produce inhomogeneous field. This work investigates application of series capacitors to improve field homogeneity along the coil. The equations for optimal values of evenly distributed capacitors are derived and expressed in terms of the implemented transmission line parameters. The achieved magnetic field homogeneity is estimated under quasistatic approximation and compared to the regular transmission line resonator. Finally, a more practical case of a microstrip line coil with two series capacitors is considered.
Impact of Pancreatic Rat Islet Density on Cell Survival during Hypoxia
Authors: Rodriguez-Brotons A. , Bietiger W. , Peronet C. , Magisson J. , Sookhareea C. , Langlois A. , Mura C. , Jeandidier N. , Pinget M. , Sigrist S. , Maillard E.
Published: December 2015

In bioartificial pancreases (BP), the number of islets needed to restore normoglycaemia in the diabetic patient is critical. However, the confinement of a high quantity of islets in a limited space may impact islet survival, particularly in regard to the low oxygen partial pressure (PO2) in such environments. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact of islet number in a confined space under hypoxia on cell survival. Rat islets were seeded at three different concentrations (150, 300, and 600 Islet Equivalents (IEQ)/cm2) and cultured in normal atmospheric pressure (160 mmHg) as well as hypoxic conditions (15 mmHg) for 24 hours. Cell viability, function, hypoxia-induced changes in gene expression, and cytokine secretion were then assessed. Notably, hypoxia appeared to induce a decrease in viability and increasing islet density exacerbated the observed increase in cellular apoptosis as well as the loss of function. These changes were also associated with an increase in inflammatory gene transcription. Taken together, these data indicate that when a high number of islets are confined to a small space under hypoxia, cell viability and function are significantly impacted. Thus, in order to improve islet survival in this environment during transplantation, oxygenation is of critical importance.
A Multiobjective Approach to Homography Estimation
Authors: Osuna-Enciso Valentín , Cuevas Erik , Oliva Diego , Zúñiga Virgilio , Pérez-Cisneros Marco , Zaldívar Daniel
Published: December 2015

In several machine vision problems, a relevant issue is the estimation of homographies between two different perspectives that hold an extensive set of abnormal data. A method to find such estimation is the random sampling consensus (RANSAC); in this, the goal is to maximize the number of matching points given a permissible error (Pe), according to a candidate model. However, those objectives are in conflict: a low Pe value increases the accuracy of the model but degrades its generalization ability that refers to the number of matching points that tolerate noisy data, whereas a high Pe value improves the noise tolerance of the model but adversely drives the process to false detections. This work considers the estimation process as a multiobjective optimization problem that seeks to maximize the number of matching points whereas Pe is simultaneously minimized. In order to solve the multiobjective formulation, two different evolutionary algorithms have been explored: the Nondominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) and the Nondominated Sorting Differential Evolution (NSDE). Results considering acknowledged quality measures among original and transformed images over a well-known image benchmark show superior performance of the proposal than Random Sample Consensus algorithm.
Real-Time Obstacle Detection System in Indoor Environment for the Visually Impaired Using Microsoft Kinect Sensor
Authors: Pham Huy-Hieu , Le Thi-Lan , Vuillerme Nicolas
Published: December 2015

Any mobility aid for the visually impaired people should be able to accurately detect and warn about nearly obstacles. In this paper, we present a method for support system to detect obstacle in indoor environment based on Kinect sensor and 3D-image processing. Color-Depth data of the scene in front of the user is collected using the Kinect with the support of the standard framework for 3D sensing OpenNI and processed by PCL library to extract accurate 3D information of the obstacles. The experiments have been performed with the dataset in multiple indoor scenarios and in different lighting conditions. Results showed that our system is able to accurately detect the four types of obstacle: walls, doors, stairs, and a residual class that covers loose obstacles on the floor. Precisely, walls and loose obstacles on the floor are detected in practically all cases, whereas doors are detected in 90.69% out of 43 positive image samples. For the step detection, we have correctly detected the upstairs in 97.33% out of 75 positive images while the correct rate of downstairs detection is lower with 89.47% from 38 positive images. Our method further allows the computation of the distance between the user and the obstacles.
A Registration Scheme for Multispectral Systems Using Phase Correlation and Scale Invariant Feature Matching
Authors: Li Hanlun , Zhang Aiwu , Hu Shaoxing
Published: December 2015

In the past few years, many multispectral systems which consist of several identical monochrome cameras equipped with different bandpass filters have been developed. However, due to the significant difference in the intensity between different band images, image registration becomes very difficult. Considering the common structural characteristic of the multispectral systems, this paper proposes an effective method for registering different band images. First we use the phase correlation method to calculate the parameters of a coarse-offset relationship between different band images. Then we use the scale invariant feature transform (SIFT) to detect the feature points. For every feature point in a reference image, we can use the coarse-offset parameters to predict the location of its matching point. We only need to compare the feature point in the reference image with the several near feature points from the predicted location instead of the feature points all over the input image. Our experiments show that this method does not only avoid false matches and increase correct matches, but also solve the matching problem between an infrared band image and a visible band image in cases lacking man-made objects.
Planetary Gearbox Fault Diagnosis Using Envelope Manifold Demodulation
Authors: Wen Weigang , Gao Robert X. , Cheng Weidong
Published: December 2015

The important issue in planetary gear fault diagnosis is to extract the dependable fault characteristics from the noisy vibration signal of planetary gearbox. To address this critical problem, an envelope manifold demodulation method is proposed for planetary gear fault detection in the paper. This method combines complex wavelet, manifold learning, and frequency spectrogram to implement planetary gear fault characteristic extraction. The vibration signal of planetary gear is demodulated by wavelet enveloping. The envelope energy is adopted as an indicator to select meshing frequency band. Manifold learning is utilized to reduce the effect of noise within meshing frequency band. The fault characteristic frequency of the planetary gear is shown by spectrogram. The planetary gearbox model and test rig are established and experiments with planet gear faults are conducted for verification. All results of experiment analysis demonstrate its effectiveness and reliability.
Acute Hypoglycemia Induces Painful Neuropathy and the Treatment of Coenzyme Q10
Authors: Zhang Yan Ping , Mei Shanshan , Yang Jinfeng , Rodriguez Yiliam , Candiotti Keith A.
Published: December 2015

Diabetic neuropathic pain is reduced with tight glycemic control. However, strict control increases the risk of hypoglycemic episodes, which are themselves linked to painful neuropathy. This study explored the effects of hypoglycemia-related painful neuropathy. Pretreatment with coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) was performed to explore the preventive effect of CoQ10 on hypoglycemia-related acute neuropathic pain. Two strains of mice were used and 1 unit/kg of insulin was given to induce hypoglycemia. Mechanical sensitivity of hindpaw withdrawal thresholds was measured using von Frey filaments. Blood glucose levels were clamped at normal levels by joint insulin and glucose injection to test whether insulin itself induced hypersensitivity. Results suggest that the increased mechanical sensitivity after insulin injection is related to decreased blood glucose levels. When blood glucose levels remained at a normal level by the linked administration of insulin and glucose, mice demonstrated no significant change in mechanical sensitivity. Pretreatment with CoQ10 prevented neuropathic pain and the expression of the stress factor c-Fos. These results support the concept that pain in the diabetic scenario can be the result of hypoglycemia and not insulin itself. Additionally, pretreatment with CoQ10 may be a potent preventive method for the development of neuropathic pain.
Myocardial Perfusion and Function Are Distinctly Altered by Sevoflurane Anesthesia in Diet-Induced Prediabetic Rats
Authors: van den Brom Charissa E. , Boly Chantal A. , Bulte Carolien S. E. , van den Akker Rob F. P. , Kwekkeboom Rick F. J. , Loer Stephan A. , Boer Christa , Bouwman R. Arthur
Published: December 2015

Preservation of myocardial perfusion during surgery is particularly important in patients with increased risk for perioperative complications, such as diabetes. Volatile anesthetics, like sevoflurane, have cardiodepressive effects and may aggravate cardiovascular complications. We investigated the effect of sevoflurane on myocardial perfusion and function in prediabetic rats. Rats were fed a western diet (WD;n=18) or control diet (CD;n=18) for 8 weeks and underwent (contrast) echocardiography to determine perfusion and function during baseline and sevoflurane exposure. Myocardial perfusion was estimated based on the product of microvascular filling velocity and blood volume. WD-feeding resulted in a prediabetic phenotype characterized by obesity, hyperinsulinemia, hyperlipidemia, glucose intolerance, and hyperglycemia. At baseline, WD-feeding impaired myocardial perfusion and systolic function compared to CD-feeding. Exposure of healthy rats to sevoflurane increased the microvascular filling velocity without altering myocardial perfusion but impaired systolic function. In prediabetic rats, sevoflurane did also not affect myocardial perfusion; however, it further impaired systolic function. Diet-induced prediabetes is associated with impaired myocardial perfusion and function in rats. While sevoflurane further impaired systolic function, it did not affect myocardial perfusion in prediabetic rats. Our findings suggest that sevoflurane anesthesia leads to uncoupling of myocardial perfusion and function, irrespective of the metabolic state.
Developing and Demonstrating Climate Indicators for Monitoring the Changing Water Cycle
Authors: Feng Xia , Houser Paul
Published: December 2015

In this study, we developed a suite of spatially and temporally scalable Water Cycle Indicators (WCI) to examine the long-term changes in water cycle variability and demonstrated their use over the contiguous US (CONUS) during 1979–2013 using the MERRA reanalysis product. The WCI indicators consist of six water balance variables monitoring the mean conditions and extreme aspects of the changing water cycle. The variables include precipitation (P), evaporation (E), runoff (R), terrestrial water storage (dS/dt), moisture convergence flux (C), and atmospheric moisture content (dW/dt). Means are determined as the daily total value, while extremes include wet and dry extremes, defined as the upper and lower 10th percentile of daily distribution. Trends are assessed for annual and seasonal indicators at several different spatial scales. Our results indicate that significant changes have occurred in most of the indicators, and these changes are geographically and seasonally dependent. There are more upward trends than downward trends in all eighteen annual indicators averaged over the CONUS. The spatial correlations between the annual trends in means and extremes are statistically significant across the country and are stronger forP,E,R, andCcompared todS/dtanddW/dt.
A Comparison of hs-CRP Levels in New Diabetes Groups Diagnosed Based on FPG, 2-hPG, or HbA1c Criteria
Authors: Tutuncu Yildiz , Satman Ilhan , Celik Selda , Dinccag Nevin , Karsidag Kubilay , Telci Aysegul , Genc Sema , Issever Halim , Tuomilehto Jaakko , Omer Beyhan
Published: December 2015

Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) have been used to diagnose new-onset diabetes mellitus (DM) in order to simplify the diagnostic tests compared with the 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT; 2-hPG). We aimed to identify optimal cut-off points of high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in new-onset DM people based on FPG, 2-hPG, or HbA1c methods. Data derived from recent population-based survey in Turkey (TURDEP-II). The study included 26,499 adult people (63% women, response rate 85%). The mean serum concentration of hs-CRP in women was higher than in men (p<0.001). The people with new-onset DM based on HbA1c had higher mean hs-CRP level than FPG based and 2-hPG based DM cases. In HbA1c, 2-hPG, and FPG based new-onset DM people, cut-off levels of hs-CRP in women were 2.9, 2.1, and 2.5 mg/L [27.5, 19.7, and 23.5 nmol/L] and corresponding values in men were 2.0, 1.8, and 1.8 mg/L (19.0, 16.9, and 16.9 nmol/L), respectively (sensitivity 60–65% and specificity 54–64%). Our results revealed that hs-CRP may not further strengthen the diagnosis of new-onset DM. Nevertheless, the highest hs-CRP level observed in new-onset DM people diagnosed with HbA1c criterion supports the general assumption that this method might recognize people in more advanced diabetic stage compared with other diagnostic methods.
Quantum Sensors: Improved Optical Measurement via Specialized Quantum States
Authors: Simon David S.
Published: December 2015

Classical measurement strategies in many areas are approaching their maximum resolution and sensitivity levels, but these levels often still fall far short of the ultimate limits allowed by the laws of physics. To go further, strategies must be adopted that take into account the quantum nature of the probe particles and that optimize their quantum states for the desired application. Here, we review some of these approaches, in which quantum entanglement, the orbital angular momentum of single photons, and quantum interferometry are used to produce optical measurements beyond the classical limit.
Overview of Alzheimer’s Disease and Some Therapeutic Approaches Targeting Aβ by Using Several Synthetic and Herbal Compounds
Authors: Singh Sandeep Kumar , Srivastav Saurabh , Yadav Amarish Kumar , Srikrishna Saripella , Perry George
Published: December 2015

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a complex age‐related neurodegenerative disease. In this review, we carefully detail amyloid‐β metabolism and its role in AD. We also consider the various genetic animal models used to evaluate therapeutics. Finally, we consider the role of synthetic and plant‐based compounds in therapeutics.
Relationship between Oxidative Stress, Circadian Rhythms, and AMD
Authors: Fanjul-Moles María Luisa , López-Riquelme Germán Octavio
Published: December 2015

This work reviews concepts regarding oxidative stress and the mechanisms by which endogenous and exogenous factors produce reactive oxygen species (ROS). It also surveys the relationships between oxidative stress, circadian rhythms, and retinal damage in humans, particularly those related to light and photodamage. In the first section, the production of ROS by different cell organelles and biomolecules and the antioxidant mechanisms that antagonize this damage are reviewed. The second section includes a brief review of circadian clocks and their relationship with the cellular redox state. In the third part of this work, the relationship between retinal damage and ROS is described. The last part of this work focuses on retinal degenerative pathology, age‐related macular degeneration, and the relationships between this pathology, ROS, and light. Finally, the possible interactions between the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), circadian rhythms, and this pathology are discussed.
Hericium erinaceus Inhibits TNF‐α‐Induced Angiogenesis and ROS Generation through Suppression of MMP‐9/NF‐κB Signaling and Activation of Nrf2‐Mediated Antioxidant Genes in Human EA.hy926 Endothelial Cells
Authors: Chang Hebron C. , Yang Hsin-Ling , Pan Jih-Hao , Korivi Mallikarjuna , Pan Jian-You , Hsieh Meng-Chang , Chao Pei-Min , Huang Pei-Jane , Tsai Ching-Tsan , Hseu You-Cheng
Published: December 2015

Hericium erinaceus (HE) is an edible mushroom that has been shown to exhibit anticancer and anti‐inflammatory activities. We investigated the antiangiogenic and antioxidant potentials of ethanol extracts of HE in human endothelial (EA.hy926) cells upon tumor necrosis factor‐α‐ (TNF‐α‐) stimulation (10 ng/mL). The underlying molecular mechanisms behind the pharmacological efficacies were elucidated. We found that noncytotoxic concentrations of HE (50–200 μg/mL) significantly inhibited TNF‐α‐induced migration/invasion and capillary‐like tube formation of endothelial cells. HE treatment suppressed TNF‐α‐induced activity and/or overexpression of matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) and intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1). Furthermore, HE downregulated TNF‐α‐induced nuclear translocation and transcriptional activation of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) followed by suppression of I‐κB (inhibitor‐κB) degradation. Data from fluorescence microscopy illustrated that increased intracellular ROS production upon TNF‐α‐stimulation was remarkably inhibited by HE pretreatment in a dose‐dependent manner. Notably, HE triggered antioxidant gene expressions of heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1), γ‐glutamylcysteine synthetase (γ‐GCLC), and glutathione levels, which may contribute to inhibition of ROS. Increased antioxidant status was associated with upregulated nuclear translocation and transcriptional activation of NF‐E2 related factor‐2 (Nrf2) in HE treated cells. Our findings conclude that antiangiogenic and anti‐inflammatory activities of H. erinaceus may contribute to its anticancer property through modulation of MMP‐9/NF‐κB and Nrf2‐antioxidant signaling pathways.
Multifocus Color Image Fusion Based on NSST and PCNN
Authors: Jin Xin , Nie Rencan , Zhou Dongming , Wang Quan , He Kangjian
Published: December 2015

This paper proposed an effective multifocus color image fusion algorithm based on nonsubsampled shearlet transform (NSST) and pulse coupled neural networks (PCNN); the algorithm can be used in different color spaces. In this paper, we take HSV color space as an example, H component is clustered by adaptive simplified PCNN (S-PCNN), and then the H component is fused according to oscillation frequency graph (OFG) of S-PCNN; at the same time, S and V components are decomposed by NSST, and different fusion rules are utilized to fuse the obtained results. Finally, inverse HSV transform is performed to get the RGB color image. The experimental results indicate that the proposed color image fusion algorithm is more efficient than other common color image fusion algorithms.
Clopidogrel Protects Endothelium by Hindering TNFα-Induced VCAM-1 Expression through CaMKKβ/AMPK/Nrf2 Pathway
Authors: Yang Huabing , Zhao Pengjun , Tian Shiliu
Published: December 2015

Clopidogrel (INN), an oral antiplatelet drug, has been revealed to have a number of biological properties, for instance, anti-inflammation and antioxidation. Oxidative stress plays an imperative role in inflammation, diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis, and cancer. In the present study, human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) were employed to explore the anti-inflammatory activity of INN. INN reduced TNFα-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and time-dependently prompted the expression and activity of heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1). Cellular glutathione (GSH) levels were augmented by INN. shHO-1 blocked the INN suppression of TNFα-induced HL-60 cell adhesion. The CaMKKβ/AMPK pathway and Nrf2 transcriptional factor were implicated in the induction of HO-1 by INN. Additionally, TNFαdramatically augmented VCAM-1 expression at protein and mRNA levels. INN treatment strikingly repressed TNFα-induced expression of VCAM-1 and HL-60 cell adhesion. Compound C, an AMPK inhibitor, and shNrf2 abolished TNFα-induced expression of VCAM-1 and HL-60 cell adhesion. Our data suggest that INN diminishes TNFα-stimulated VCAM-1 expression at least in part via HO-1 induction, which is CaMKKβ/AMPK pathway-dependent.
Reinforced Epithelial Barrier Integrity via Matriptase Induction with Sphingosine‐1‐Phosphate Did Not Result in Disturbances in Physiological Redox Status
Authors: Pászti-Gere E. , Jerzsele Á. , Balla P. , Ujhelyi G. , Székács A.
Published: December 2015

Objectives. The relationship among matriptase function, cellular redox status, and maintenance of intestinal barrier integrity has not been established yet. The aim of this study is to reveal if the crosstalk between matriptase activators and intestinal epithelial monolayers can lead to perturbations in physiological redox regulation in vitro. Methods. The effects of suramin and sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P) were tested on viability of intestinal porcine epithelial IPEC‐J2 cells using MTS assay. Measurements of transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) were performed to determine changes in barrier integrity of cell monolayers. Amplex Red assay was used to monitor extracellular hydrogen peroxide production. Occludin distribution pattern was detected prior to and after matriptase activation using immunofluorescent staining technique. Results. TER reduction was observed in suramin‐treated IPEC‐J2 cell monolayers, which could be attributed to cell cytotoxic properties of 48 hr 50 μM suramin administration. In contrast, S1P treatment increased TER significantly and elevated occludin accumulation in tight junctions. It was also found that extracellular hydrogen peroxide levels were maintained in IPEC‐J2 cells exposed to matriptase activators. Discussion. S1P administration not accompanied by redox imbalance might be one of the key strategies in the improvement of barrier function and consequently in the therapy of intestinal inflammations.
Oxidative Stress and Carbonyl Lesions in Ulcerative Colitis and Associated Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Wang Zhiqi , Li Sai , Cao Yu , Tian Xuefei , Zeng Rong , Liao Duan-Fang , Cao Deliang
Published: December 2015

Oxidative stress has long been known as a pathogenic factor of ulcerative colitis (UC) and colitis‐associated colorectal cancer (CAC), but the effects of secondary carbonyl lesions receive less emphasis. In inflammatory conditions, reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as superoxide anion free radical (), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and hydroxyl radical (HO∙), are produced at high levels and accumulated to cause oxidative stress (OS). In oxidative status, accumulated ROS can cause protein dysfunction and DNA damage, leading to gene mutations and cell death. Accumulated ROS could also act as chemical messengers to activate signaling pathways, such as NF‐κB and p38 MAPK, to affect cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. More importantly, electrophilic carbonyl compounds produced by lipid peroxidation may function as secondary pathogenic factors, causing further protein and membrane lesions. This may in turn exaggerate oxidative stress, forming a vicious cycle. Electrophilic carbonyls could also cause DNA mutations and breaks, driving malignant progression of UC. The secondary lesions caused by carbonyl compounds may be exceptionally important in the case of host carbonyl defensive system deficit, such as aldo‐keto reductase 1B10 deficiency. This review article updates the current understanding of oxidative stress and carbonyl lesions in the development and progression of UC and CAC.
Hemorrhagic Moyamoya Disease in Children
Authors: Liu Peng , Han Cong , Li De-Sheng , Lv Xian-Li , Li You-Xiang , Duan Lian
Published: December 2015

Background and Purpose—

Here, we describe the clinical, angiographic characteristics, and long-term surgical outcome of hemorrhagic moyamoya disease in children.

Methods—

We retrospectively collected 374 consecutive children with moyamoya disease (hemorrhagic 30 and ischemic 344) between 2004 and 2012 in our hospital. The clinical and radiological characteristics of the hemorrhagic patients were retrospectively described and analyzed. All the hemorrhagic patients underwent encephalo-duro-arterio-synangiosis procedure. Digital subtraction angiography was performed to evaluate the efficacy of vascularization. Clinical follow-up outcomes were obtained through clinical visits, telephone, or letter interview.

Results—

In our study, the ratio of female to male patients in the hemorrhagic group was significantly higher than the ischemic group (2:1 versus 0.9:1;
P
<0.05). The most frequent hemorrhagic location was intraventricular hemorrhage (n=22, 73%). In addition, significantly greater dilatation of the anterior choroidal artery and the posterior communicating artery were seen in the hemorrhagic group (
P
<0.05). Good or fair vascularization were observed in all the 15 children with digital subtraction angiography follow-up. Clinical outcomes showed that 25 of 30 (83%) patients had no disability (modified Rankin scale score, 0 and 1); 1 patient (3.3%) died of recurrent hemorrhagic stroke.

Conclusions—

The presence of anterior choroidal artery and posterior communicating artery dilation may be associated with the bleeding episode in the children with hemorrhagic moyamoya disease. The encephalo-duro-arterio-synangiosis surgery can effectively increase the cerebral blood flow in children, which may decrease the incidence of recurrent hemorrhage.
Problem-Solving Therapy During Outpatient Stroke Rehabilitation Improves Coping and Health-Related Quality of Life
Authors: Visser Marieke M. , Heijenbrok-Kal Majanka H. , van‘t Spijker Adriaan , Lannoo Engelien , Busschbach Jan J.V. , Ribbers Gerard M.
Published: December 2015

Background and Purpose—

This study investigated whether problem-solving therapy (PST) is an effective group intervention for improving coping strategy and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with stroke.

Methods—

In this multicenter randomized controlled trial, the intervention group received PST as add-on to standard outpatient rehabilitation, the control group received outpatient rehabilitation only. Measurements were performed at baseline, directly after the intervention, and 6 and 12 months later. Data were analyzed using linear-mixed models. Primary outcomes were task-oriented coping as measured by the Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations and psychosocial HRQoL as measured by the Stroke-Specific Quality of Life Scale. Secondary outcomes were the EuroQol EQ-5D-5L utility score, emotion-oriented and avoidant coping as measured by the Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations, problem-solving skills as measured by the Social Problem Solving Inventory-Revised, and depression as measured by the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale.

Results—

Included were 166 patients with stroke, mean age 53.06 years (SD, 10.19), 53% men, median time poststroke 7.29 months (interquartile range, 4.90–10.61 months). Six months post intervention, the PST group showed significant improvement when compared with the control group in task-oriented coping (
P
=0.008), but not stroke-specific psychosocial HRQoL. Furthermore, avoidant coping (
P
=0.039) and the utility value for general HRQoL (
P
=0.034) improved more in the PST group than in the control after 6 months.

Conclusions—

PST seems to improve task-oriented coping but not disease-specific psychosocial HRQoL after stroke >6-month follow-up. Furthermore, we found indications that PST may improve generic HRQoL recovery and avoidant coping.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.trialregister.nl/trialreg/admin/rctview.asp?TC=2509
. Unique identifier: CNTR2509.
Rates, Predictors, and Outcomes of Early and Late Recurrence After Stroke
Authors: Callaly Elizabeth , Ni Chroinin Danielle , Hannon Niamh , Marnane Michael , Akijian Layan , Sheehan Orla , Merwick Aine , Hayden Derek , Horgan Gillian , Duggan Joseph , Murphy Sean , O’Rourke Killian , Dolan Eamon , Williams David , Kyne Lorraine , Kelly Peter J.
Published: December 2015

Background and Purpose—

Few recent studies have investigated the rates and predictors of early and late stroke recurrence using prospective population–based methodology. We investigated recurrent stroke at 2 years in the North Dublin Population Stroke Study (NDPSS).

Methods—

Patients were ascertained from December 2005 to 2006 from overlapping community and hospital sources using hot and cold pursuit. Stroke recurrence, survival, and functional outcome were ascertained at 72 hours, 7 days, 28 days, 90 days, 1 year, and 2 years.

Results—

Of 567 patients, cumulative 2-year stroke recurrence rate was 10.8% and case fatality was 38.6%. Recurrence subtype was associated with initial stroke subtype (
P
<0.001). On multivariable Cox regression, hyperlipidemia (adjusted hazard ratio, 3.32;
P
=0.005) and prior stroke (adjusted hazard ratio, 2.92;
P
=0.01) were independent predictors of 2-year recurrence in 28-day survivors.

Conclusions—

Despite rigorous ascertainment, recurrent stroke rates were lower in current study than in earlier studies. Our data suggest that large sample sizes may be needed for future secondary prevention trials in patients treated with modern preventive medications.
Ability of Early Literacy Measures to Predict Future State Assessment Performance
Authors: Utchell Lynn A. , Schmitt Ara J. , McCallum Elizabeth , McGoey Kara E. , Piselli Kate
Published: December 2015

The purpose of this study was to determine the extent to which early literacy measures administered in kindergarten and Oral Reading Fluency (ORF) measures administered in Grade 1 are related to and predict future state reading assessment performances up to 7 years later. Results indicated that early literacy and ORF performances were significantly and moderately related to performances in Grades 3, 5, and 7. Grade 3 achievement was best predicted by ORF, followed by Phoneme Segmentation Fluency (PSF), and then Initial Sound Fluency (ISF). After controlling for the effects of previous state assessment scores in Grade 3, additional significant variance in Grade 5 performance was accounted for by ORF. Finally, after controlling for the effects of Grades 5 and 3 state assessment performances, early literacy and ORF measures did not significantly predict Grade 7 achievement. Discussion focuses on the implications of these findings for theory and practice, as well as limitations and directions for future research.
Considerations on combustion and fire behaviour of materials: A change of mind during the 18th century
Authors: Guillaume Eric , Marlair Guy , Delacroix Alain , Drysdale Dougal
Published: December 2015

Our knowledge of fire has advanced rapidly over the last few decades to a point where we now have a good understanding of the complex interactions between combustion chemistry, fluid dynamics and heat transfer. It took many centuries before the basic principles were resolved and we should not forget the remarkable achievements of early generations of scientists in the 17th and 18th centuries. This article traces the ideas that led to the development of our understanding oxidation, combustion and fire, from the age of the alchemist to the discovery of oxygen at the end of the 18th century. Fire was first understood in terms of its chemical aspect before its thermal one, but the discovery took time, as earlier theories adopted by alchemists were only replaced at the end of the 17th century by the ‘phlogiston’ theory from Becher and Stahl. This theory has been replaced less than a century after by the actual theory of oxidation, established on the basis of a rigorous theoretical and experimental work from Lavoisier and the discovery of oxygen by Priestley. In a few years, this theory passed from being marginal and resisted strongly by partisans of phlogiston, to being the only one commonly adopted. This history is an excellent example of how science advances, with conflicting theories being tested until one gains general acceptance after careful experimental work and subjection to the peer-review process.
Resilience Intervention for Young Adults With Adverse Childhood Experiences
Authors: Chandler Genevieve E. , Roberts Susan Jo , Chiodo Lisa
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND: Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are correlated with risk behaviors of smoking, disordered eating, and alcohol and substance abuse. Such behaviors can lead to significant public health problems of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, obesity, liver disease, and hypertension, yet some individuals do not appear to suffer negative consequences but rather bounce back. OBJECTIVE: To pilot the feasibility and potential efficacy of the Empower Resilience Intervention to build capacity by increasing resilience and health behaviors and decreasing symptoms and negative health behaviors with young adults in an educational setting who have had ACEs. DESIGN: A two-group pre–post repeated measures design to compare symptoms, health behaviors, and resilience and written participant responses. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant cohort by time interaction for physical activity in the intervention group. There was no significant change in risk behaviors or resilience score by cohort. Young adults in the intervention group reported building strengths, reframing resilience, and creating support connections. CONCLUSIONS: An increase in health behavior is theoretically consistent with this strengths-based intervention. Evaluating this intervention with a larger sample is important. Interrupting the ACE to illness trajectory is complex. This short-term empower resilience intervention, however, holds promise as an opportunity to reconsider the negative effects of the trauma of the past and build on strengths to develop a preferred future.