bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microcirculation at the supraspinatus tendon and shoulder external rotation explosive strength and fatigue are correlated
Authors: Wang Hsing-Kuo , Yu Chih-Wei , Hsu Chao-Yu , Chen Bang-Bin , Chen Hsin-Chia , Chen Chin-Yi , Lee Yong-Hsiang , Shih Tiffany Ting-Fang
Published: October 2016

BACKGROUND:

Tendons show morphological and vascular adaptations to mechanical loadings.

OBJECTIVE:

To measure and compare the features of regional microcirculation within the supraspinatus tendon, and to investigate the correlations between those features and shoulder strength in overhead athletes.

METHODS:

Seventeen badminton athletes were recruited. DCE-MRI was conducted on the tendons in each athlete's dominant arm, including measures for the volume transfer constant (K trans), reverse reflux rate constant(Kep) and the extravascular extracellular space volume (Ve). Isokinetic tests were used to measure the acceleration time and the relative fatigue ratio of the shoulder external rotation of the arm.

RESULTS:

The DCE-MRI measures for the anterior, posterior, and entirety of the tendon showed regional differences and correlations between the Kep values for the whole supraspinatus tendon and the acceleration time (r = -0.663, p= 0.005) and between the Vp value of the whole tendon and the relative fatigue ratio (r = -0.605, p= 0.01).

CONCLUSION:

There are differences in the microcirculatory features of the anterior and posterior portions of the supraspinatus tendon. In addition, microcirculation at the supraspinatus tendon and shoulder external rotation explosive strength and fatigue are correlated.
Familiarisation to maximal recumbent eccentric cycling
Authors: Green David James , Thomas Kevin , Ross Emma , Pringle Jamie , Howatson Glyn
Published: October 2016

BACKGROUND:

Isokinetic eccentric cycling is increasingly being utilised to examine the effect of chronic eccentric muscle training however little is known about how individuals familiarise to such a unique training modality.

OBJECTIVE:

To examine longitudinal variation in power output and lower limb muscle activation during familiarisation to maximal recumbent isokinetic eccentric cycling.

METHODS:

Twelve male volunteers, unfamiliar with eccentric cycling, completed four trials, separated by 7-10 days, each comprising 6 × 10 s maximal isokinetic eccentric efforts between 20-120 rpm. Peak power and average power output (PO), and surface electromyography (sEMG) of the rectus femoris (RF), vastus lateralis (VL), biceps femoris (BF), and medial gastrocnemius (MG) were recorded throughout. Systematic error across repeated trials was assessed using one-way ANOVA, and random error quantified using coefficient of variation (CV, %).

RESULTS:

Average PO at 60 rpm and RF activation at 20 rpm increased from trial 1-2 (p < 0.05), with no other systematic error between trials at any cadence. Across all cadences, the CV for peak PO (∼ 13%), average PO (∼ 10%), VL activation (∼ 13%) and RF activation(∼ 19%) was moderate and plateaued after one familiarisation (i.e. T2-T3). However, for BF (∼ 24%) and MG (∼ 22%) activation reliability was generally poor. For the majority of variables the reliability was best at 60 rpm.

CONCLUSIONS:

Therefore, with one familiarisation, 60 rpm is recommended to achieve moderate between-session reliability in the measurement of power output and lower limb muscle activation during recumbent, eccentric cycling.
Boundary element analysis of stress forces in pulsed electric field treatment of microorganism
Authors: Kawaguchi Hideki , Satoh Kohki , Timoshkin Igor V. , Given Martin J. , MacGregor Scott J.
Published: October 2016

Beyond on remarkable progresses in a technology of high-voltage pulse, it is considered to apply the high-voltage pulsed electric field to an inactivation of a microorganism. In particular, the method of the high-voltage pulse has advantage in the inactivation of bacteria in foods, since conventional methods such as heat disinfectant, X-ray or gamma-ray are expected to induce negative secondary effects, changes of flavor, taste, texture of the foods, and so on. In the treatment of the microorganism by the high-voltage pulse, the microorganism is destroyed by pure mechanical stress force created by externally applied electric field, and therefore there are no negative secondary effects. However, it should be carefully evaluated how much strong stress force can be produced by reasonable voltage and pulse duration of the high-voltage pulse for the inactivation of the microorganism. Then, evaluation of the stress force for cases of complete sphere and axis-symmetric shapes of the microorganism were presented by using an analytical formula or 2-D FEM. In this paper, an electrostatic field analysis by using 3-D BEM with a thin layer approximation for a membrane of the microorganism is presented to aim to evaluate the stress force for arbitrary shape microorganism.
Effects of Safinamide on Pain in Fluctuating Parkinson’s Disease Patients: A Post-Hoc Analysis
Authors: Cattaneo Carlo , Barone Paolo , Bonizzoni Erminio , Sardina Marco
Published: October 2016

Background: Pain, a frequent non-motor symptom in Parkinson’s Disease (PD), significantly impacts on quality of life. Safinamide is a new drug with dopaminergic and non-dopaminergic properties, approved in Europe as adjunct therapy to levodopa for the treatment of fluctuating PD patients. Results from two 24-month, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies demonstrated that safinamide has positive effects on both motor functions and quality of life in PD patients.

Objective: To investigate the effects of safinamide on pain management in PD patients with motor fluctuations using pooled data from studies 016 and SETTLE.

Methods: This post-hoc analysis evaluated the reduction of concomitant pain treatments and the changes in the scores of the items related to pain of the Parkinson’s Disease Quality of Life Questionnaire (PDQ-39). A path analysis was performed in order to examine direct and indirect associations between safinamide and PDQ-39 pain-related items assessed after 6-months of treatment.

Results: The percentage of patients with no pain treatments at the end of the trials was significantly lower in the safinamide group compared to the placebo group. Safinamide 100 mg/day significantly reduced on average the individual use of pain treatments by ≈24% and significantly improved two out of three PDQ-39 pain-related items of the “Bodily discomfort” domain.

Path analysis showed that the direct effect of safinamide on pain accounted for about 80% of the total effect.

Conclusions: These results suggest that safinamide may have a positive effect on pain, one of the most underestimated non-motor symptoms. Prospective studies are warranted to investigate this potential benefit.
Fault Sensing Using Fractal Dimension and Wavelet
Authors: Wang Mei , Zhu Liang , Guo Yanan
Published: October 2016

A new fusion sensing (FS) method was proposed by using the improved fractal box dimension (IFBD) and a developed maximum wavelet coefficient (DMWC) for fault sensing of an online power cable. There are four strategies that were used. Firstly, the traditional fractal box dimension was improved to enlarge the feature distances between the different fault classes. Secondly, the IFBD recognition algorithm was proposed by using the improved fractal dimension feature extracted from the three-phase currents for the first stage of fault recognition. Thirdly, the DMWC recognition algorithm was developed based on the K-transform and wavelet analysis to establish the relationship between the maximum wavelet coefficient and the fault class. Fourthly, the FS method was formed by combining the IFBD algorithm and the DMWC algorithm in order to recognize the 10 types of short circuit faults of online power. The designed test system proved that the FS method increased the fault recognition accuracy obviously. In addition, the parameters of the initial angle, transient resistance, and fault distance had no influence on the FS method.
Exploring Attitudes and Beliefs towards Implementing Cattle Disease Prevention and Control Measures: A Qualitative Study with Dairy Farmers in Great Britain
Authors: Brennan Marnie , Wright Nick , Wapenaar Wendela , Jarratt Susanne , Hobson-West Pru , Richens Imogen , Kaler Jasmeet , Buchanan Heather , Huxley Jonathan , O’Connor Heather
Published: October 2016

Disease prevention and control practices are frequently highlighted as important to ensure the health and welfare of farmed animals, although little is known as to why not many practices are carried out. The aim of this study was to identify the motivators and barriers of dairy cattle farmers towards the use of biosecurity measures on dairy farms using a health psychology approach. Twenty-five farmers on 24 farms in Great Britain (GB) were interviewed using the Theory of Planned Behaviour framework. Results indicated that farmers perceived they had the ability to control what happened on their farms in terms of preventing and controlling disease, and described benefits from being proactive and vigilant. However, barriers were cited in relation to testing inaccuracies, effectiveness and time-efficiency of practices, and disease transmission route (e.g., airborne transmission). Farmers reported they were positively influenced by veterinarians and negatively influenced by the government (Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA)) and the general public. Decisions to implement practices were influenced by the perceived severity of the disease in question, if disease was diagnosed on the farm already, or was occurring on other farms. Farmers described undertaking a form of personal risk assessment when deciding if practices were worth doing, which did not always involve building in disease specific factors or opinions from veterinarians or other advisors. These results indicate that further guidance about the intricacies of control and prevention principles in relation to specific animal diseases may be required, with an obvious role for veterinarians. There appears to be an opportunity for farm advisors and herd health professionals to further understand farmer beliefs behind certain attitudes and target communication and advice accordingly to further enhance dairy cattle health and welfare.
Technology and Poultry Welfare
Authors: Ben Sassi Neila , Averós Xavier , Estevez Inma
Published: October 2016

Consideration of animal welfare is essential to address the consumers’ demands and for the long term sustainability of commercial poultry. However, assessing welfare in large poultry flocks, to be able to detect potential welfare risks and to control or minimize its impact is difficult. Current developments in technology and mathematical modelling open new possibilities for real-time automatic monitoring of animal welfare and health. New technological innovations potentially adaptable to commercial poultry are appearing, although their practical implementation is still being defined. In this paper, we review the latest technological developments with potential to be applied to poultry welfare, especially for broiler chickens and laying hens. Some of the examples that are presented and discussed include the following: sensors for farm environmental monitoring, movement, or physiological parameters; imaging technologies such as optical flow to detect gait problems and feather pecking; infrared technologies to evaluate birds’ thermoregulatory features and metabolism changes, that may be indicative of welfare, health and management problems. All these technologies have the potential to be implemented at the commercial level to improve birds’ welfare and to optimize flock management, therefore, improving the efficiency of the system in terms of use of resources and, thus, long term sustainability.
Angiogenic and Osteogenic Coupling Effects of Deferoxamine-Loaded Poly(lactide-co-glycolide)-Poly(ethylene glycol)-Poly(lactide-co-glycolide) Nanoparticles
Authors: Qiu Manle , Wang Chongyang , Chen Daoyun , Shen Chaoyong , Zhao Huakun , He Yaohua
Published: October 2016

Angiogenesis and osteogenesis coupling processes are essential for bone regeneration, and human bone marrow stromal cells (hBMSCs) along with endothelial cells (ECs) are crucial participants. Deferoxamine (DFO), a hypoxia-mimetic agent, could activate the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α signaling pathway and trigger angiogenic and osteogenic effects in these cells. However, the lifetime of DFO is very short, thus a suitable delivery system is urgently needed. In this study, we encapsulated DFO in Poly(lactide-co-glycolide)-Poly(ethylene glycol)-Poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA-PEG-PLGA) nanoparticles (DFO-loaded NPs) to realize its long-term angiogenic and osteogenic bioactivities. Surface morphology, size, size distribution of DFO-loaded NPs as well as DFO loading content (LC), encapsulation efficiency (EE) and release profile were systematically evaluated. When hBMSCs were exposed to the vehicle with DFO concentration of 100 μM, cells showed good viability, increased HIF-1α expression and enhanced vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) secretion. The transcriptional levels of the angiogenic and osteogenic genes were also upregulated. Moreover, promoted alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity further confirmed better osteogenic differentiation. Similarly, angiogenic activity of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were enhanced after the addition of DFO-loaded NPs, evidenced by increased angiogenic genes expressions and tube formation. Taken together, DFO-loaded NPs could provide a sustained supply of DFO, with its angiogenic and osteogenic coupling effects preserved, which extends the potential of this system for bone defect repair.
Satellite Assessments of Tropopause Dry Intrusions Correlated to Mid-Latitude Storms
Authors: Shou Yi-Xuan , Lu Feng , Shou Shaowen
Published: October 2016

Dry intrusion is an important mid-latitude atmosphere phenomenon within the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere. It is often found to be related to the cyclogenesis, rainstorm, as well as convection generation and precipitation enhancement. Since the atmosphere environment for any of these above-mentioned weather is terribly complicated, those preexisting popular schemes which takes no account of water vapor may not suitable for detecting the dry intrusion related to such weather events. With regard to the merits and demerits of the current preexisting schemes, a new scheme based on Fengyun-2E geo-stationary satellite data is presented in this study to detect the tropopause dry intrusion. The scheme is set up based on the statistical relationship between water vapor at high level troposphere, the general moist potential vorticity, ozone concentration and upper-level jets. Validations are made by using Fengyun-3B observed ozone profiles and NCEP FNL analysis data. Two mid-latitude storm episodes occurred in China in 2012 and 2014 are selected as demonstration to show the applicability of the method we developed in this study. Good application effects in both cases suggest that the new method for detecting dry intrusion is applicable and can be helpful in middle-latitude disastrous weather monitoring and forecasting.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Lysosomal Storage Disorders
Authors: De la Mata Mario , Cotán David , Villanueva-Paz Marina , De Lavera Isabel , Álvarez-Córdoba Mónica , Luzón-Hidalgo Raquel , Suárez-Rivero Juan , Tiscornia Gustavo , Oropesa-Ávila Manuel
Published: October 2016

Lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) describe a heterogeneous group of rare inherited metabolic disorders that result from the absence or loss of function of lysosomal hydrolases or transporters, resulting in the progressive accumulation of undigested material in lysosomes. The accumulation of substances affects the function of lysosomes and other organelles, resulting in secondary alterations such as impairment of autophagy, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation and apoptosis. LSDs frequently involve the central nervous system (CNS), where neuronal dysfunction or loss results in progressive neurodegeneration and premature death. Many LSDs exhibit signs of mitochondrial dysfunction, which include mitochondrial morphological changes, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), diminished ATP production and increased generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Furthermore, reduced autophagic flux may lead to the persistence of dysfunctional mitochondria. Gaucher disease (GD), the LSD with the highest prevalence, is caused by mutations in the GBA1 gene that results in defective and insufficient activity of the enzyme β-glucocerebrosidase (GCase). Decreased catalytic activity and/or instability of GCase leads to accumulation of glucosylceramide (GlcCer) and glucosylsphingosine (GlcSph) in the lysosomes of macrophage cells and visceral organs. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been reported to occur in numerous cellular and mouse models of GD. The aim of this manuscript is to review the current knowledge and implications of mitochondrial dysfunction in LSDs.
Operation Modeling of Power Systems Integrated with Large-Scale New Energy Power Sources
Authors: Li Hui , Li Gengyin , Wu Yaowu , Wang Zhidong , Wang Jiaming
Published: October 2016

In the most current methods of probabilistic power system production simulation, the output characteristics of new energy power generation (NEPG) has not been comprehensively considered. In this paper, the power output characteristics of wind power generation and photovoltaic power generation are firstly analyzed based on statistical methods according to their historical operating data. Then the characteristic indexes and the filtering principle of the NEPG historical output scenarios are introduced with the confidence level, and the calculation model of NEPG’s credible capacity is proposed. Based on this, taking the minimum production costs or the best energy-saving and emission-reduction effect as the optimization objective, the power system operation model with large-scale integration of new energy power generation (NEPG) is established considering the power balance, the electricity balance and the peak balance. Besides, the constraints of the operating characteristics of different power generation types, the maintenance schedule, the load reservation, the emergency reservation, the water abandonment and the transmitting capacity between different areas are also considered. With the proposed power system operation model, the operation simulations are carried out based on the actual Northwest power grid of China, which resolves the new energy power accommodations considering different system operating conditions. The simulation results well verify the validity of the proposed power system operation model in the accommodation analysis for the power system which is penetrated with large scale NEPG.
Effectiveness of a Brief Dietetic Intervention for Hyperlipidaemic Adults Using Individually-Tailored Dietary Feedback
Authors: Schumacher Tracy , Burrows Tracy , Rollo Megan , Spratt Neil , Callister Robin , Collins Clare
Published: October 2016

Dietary modifications can improve serum lipids and reduce cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. However, attendance at multiple dietary consultations can be a barrier to achieving behaviour change. This study investigated the effectiveness of a brief dietetic intervention on CVD risk factors in hyperlipidaemic adults. Adults with total cholesterol ≥ 5.0 mmol/L or low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol ≥ 4.0 mmol/L and not currently taking lipid-lowering medication were eligible for a minimum 6-week dietary intervention. Dietary intake data and blood lipids were acquired prior to a single counselling session with an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD). The intervention used targeted feedback with purpose-developed education materials to supplement advice. CVD risk factors and dietary intakes were used to assess pre-post intervention change using linear mixed model regression analyses. Thirty-nine participants (59.3 ± 11.1 years, n = 28 female) were analysed. Mean ± SD follow-up from baseline time was 9.5 ± 2.5 weeks. Significant (p < 0.05) reductions in total cholesterol (−0.51 mmol/L), total:HDL (high density lipoprotein) ratio (−0.27 mmol/L), triglycerides (−0.38 mmol/L), total energy (−870 kJ/day), energy from nutrient-poor foods (−1006 kJ/day) and sodium (−325 mg/day), and improved dietary fat quality (−5.1% of energy/day saturated, +5.0% of energy/day polyunsaturated) and body mass index (−0.4 kg/m2) were achieved. A brief intervention by an APD incorporating targeted, personalised dietary feedback and education in a single counselling session can improve lipid profiles in adults with hyperlipidaemia.
Combined Effects of Fertilizer, Irrigation, and Paclobutrazol on Yield and Fruit Quality of Mango
Authors: Sarker Babul , Rahim Mohammad , Archbold Douglas
Published: October 2016

Combinations of fertilizer rates, foliar N sprays, irrigation practices, and paclobutrazol were studied to determine how much they could alter and/or improve mango (Mangifera indica L.) growth, flowering, and yield. Two treatment combinations derived from several years of prior studies of individual practices were compared: one combination was comprised of the best (BT) individual practices from the prior studies and included three applications of fertilizer, a 4% KNO3 spray application before flowering, paclobutrazol at 7.5 g/L, and weekly irrigation, and the other combination was comprised of the next best (NB) individual practices including two applications of the same amount of fertilizer, a 4% urea spray before flowering, paclobutrazol at 10.0 g/L, and biweekly irrigation. Both combinations significantly reduced terminal shoot growth and leaves per terminal shoot, advanced the date of flowering and harvest, increased panicle number, length and secondary branching, increased fruit set, fruit number at harvest, fruit size, and yield, with BT producing larger fruit and a greater yield than NB. Although both combinations produced fruit with higher quality than the control, the BT combination produced fruit with the higher total soluble solids, reducing, non-reducing, and total sugar content, and vitamin C content than the NB combination. Both BT and NB combinations of the optimums identified in the prior studies were successful at advancing bloom and harvest and increasing yield more than any of the optimum individual components alone, by 14-fold more than untreated trees for the BT combination, suggesting there were additive, if not synergistic, effects on mango. Further studies are warranted to assess the sustainability of these effects over longer periods of time, and to ascertain if the effects occur across mango cultivars and production environments.
Methionine Regulates mTORC1 via the T1R1/T1R3-PLCβ-Ca2+-ERK1/2 Signal Transduction Process in C2C12 Cells
Authors: Zhou Yuanfei , Ren Jiao , Song Tongxing , Peng Jian , Wei Hongkui
Published: October 2016

The mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) integrates amino acid (AA) availability to support protein synthesis and cell growth. Taste receptor type 1 member (T1R) is a G protein-coupled receptor that functions as a direct sensor of extracellular AA availability to regulate mTORC1 through Ca2+ stimulation and extracellular signal–regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) activation. However, the roles of specific AAs in T1R1/T1R3-regulated mTORC1 are poorly defined. In this study, T1R1 and T1R3 subunits were expressed in C2C12 myotubes, and l-AA sensing was accomplished by T1R1/T1R3 to activate mTORC1. In response to l-AAs, such as serine (Ser), arginine (Arg), threonine (Thr), alanine (Ala), methionine (Met), glutamine (Gln), and glycine (Gly), Met induced mTORC1 activation and promoted protein synthesis. Met also regulated mTORC1 via T1R1/T1R3-PLCβ-Ca2+-ERK1/2 signal transduction. Results revealed a new role for Met-regulated mTORC1 via an AA receptor. Further studies should be performed to determine the role of T1R1/T1R3 in mediating extracellular AA to regulate mTOR signaling and to reveal its mechanism.
Preparation of Low Molecular Weight Chondroitin Sulfates, Screening of a High Anti-Complement Capacity of Low Molecular Weight Chondroitin Sulfate and Its Biological Activity Studies in Attenuating Osteoarthritis
Authors: Li Lian , Li Yan , Feng Danyang , Xu Linghua , Yin Fengxin , Zang Hengchang , Liu Chunhui , Wang Fengshan
Published: October 2016

Chondroitin sulfate (CS) plays important roles in the complement system. However, the CS structure is complicated due to different sources and the number and positions of sulfate groups. The objective of this study was to prepare different low molecular weight chondroitin sulfates (LMWCSs) and to investigate the biological activity in anti-complement capacity. A series of LMWCSs was prepared from different sources and characterized by ultraviolet-visible (UV) spectroscopy, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), size exclusion chromatography-multiangle laser light scattering (SEC-MALLS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Hemolytic, anti-complement 3 deposition capacity and cell viability assays were carried out to investigate the biological activities in vitro. The results showed that LMWCS prepared from shark cartilage with the oxidative degradation method (LMWCS-S-O) had the best anti-complement capacity. LMWCS-S-O could inhibit the alternative pathway of the complement system and protect chondrocytes from cell death. The attenuating effect of LMWCS-S-O on Osteoarthritis (OA) was investigated by destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM) model in vivo. Functional wind-up, histological and C5b-9 analyses were used to evaluate the treatment effect on the OA model. In vivo results showed that LMWCS-S-O could attenuate OA. LMWCS-S-O with a high content of ΔDi-2,6diS and ΔDi-6S could be used for attenuating OA through regulating the complement system.
Modulatory Mechanism of Nociceptive Neuronal Activity by Dietary Constituent Resveratrol
Authors: Takeda Mamoru , Takehana Shiori , Sekiguchi Kenta , Kubota Yoshiko , Shimazu Yoshihito
Published: October 2016

Changes to somatic sensory pathways caused by peripheral tissue, inflammation or injury can result in behavioral hypersensitivity and pathological pain, such as hyperalgesia. Resveratrol, a plant polyphenol found in red wine and various food products, is known to have several beneficial biological actions. Recent reports indicate that resveratrol can modulate neuronal excitability, including nociceptive sensory transmission. As such, it is possible that this dietary constituent could be a complementary alternative medicine (CAM) candidate, specifically a therapeutic agent. The focus of this review is on the mechanisms underlying the modulatory effects of resveratrol on nociceptive neuronal activity associated with pain relief. In addition, we discuss the contribution of resveratrol to the relief of nociceptive and/or pathological pain and its potential role as a functional food and a CAM.
Sulforaphane Prevents Testicular Damage in Kunming Mice Exposed to Cadmium via Activation of Nrf2/ARE Signaling Pathways
Authors: Yang Shu-Hua , Long Miao , Yu Li-Hui , Li Lin , Li Peng , Zhang Yi , Guo Yang , Gao Feng , Liu Ming-Da , He Jian-Bin
Published: October 2016

Sulforaphane (SFN) is a natural and highly effective antioxidant. Studies suggest that SFN protects cells and tissues against cadmium (Cd) toxicity. This study investigated the protective effect of SFN against oxidative damage in the testes of Kunming mice exposed to cadmium, and explored the possible molecular mechanisms involved. Cadmium greatly reduced the serum testosterone levels in mice, reduced sperm motility, total sperm count, and increased the sperm deformity rate. Cadmium also reduces superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) and glutathione (GSH) levels and increases malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations. SFN intervention improved sperm quality, serum testosterone, and antioxidant levels. Both mRNA and protein expression of mouse testicular nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) was reduced in cadmium-treated group. Furthermore, the downstream genes of Nrf2, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), γ-glutamyl cysteine synthetase (γ-GCS), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase-1 (NQO1) were also decreased in cadmium-treated group. SFN intervention increases the expression of these genes. Sulforaphane prevents cadmium-induced testicular damage, probably via activation of Nrf2/ARE signaling.
Repurposing Treatments to Enhance Innate Immunity. Can Statins Improve Neutrophil Functions and Clinical Outcomes in COPD?
Authors: Walton Georgia , Stockley James , Griffiths Diane , Sadhra Charandeep , Purvis Thomas , Sapey Elizabeth
Published: October 2016

Drug classes used in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) have not changed for many years, and none to date have shown disease-modifying activity. Statins are used to help reduce cardiovascular risk, which is high in many patients with COPD. Their use has been associated with improvements in some respiratory manifestations of disease and reduction in all-cause mortality, with greatest reductions seen in patients with the highest inflammatory burden. The mechanism for these effects is poorly understood. Neutrophils are key effector cells in COPD, and correlate with disease severity and inflammation. Recent in vitro studies have shown neutrophil functions are dysregulated in COPD and this is thought to contribute both to the destruction of lung parenchyma and to the poor responses seen in infective exacerbations. In this article, we will discuss the potential utility of statins in COPD, with a particular emphasis on their immune-modulatory effects as well as presenting new data regarding the effects of statins on neutrophil function in vitro.
Clinical Application of 2D Speckle Tracking Strain for Assessing Cardio-Toxicity in Oncology
Authors: Stefani Laura , Pedrizzetti Gianni , Galanti Giorgio
Published: October 2016

Echocardiography has recently undergone innovations due to the availability of deformation parameters as strain, strain rate, torsion and rotation that allow an accurate assessment of myocardial function. Because of this general progress, the importance of myocardial deformation parameters has been highlighted, and some aspects of their clinical and research applications have recently been considered for the daily management of many acute and chronic metabolic diseases. The deformation parameters are largely proposed for the early detection of myocardial dysfunction, especially in the case of patients being completely asymptomatic. Strain analysis is extensively applied to cardiomyopathies, to coronary artery disease, or to the evaluation of the “forgotten chambers”, such as the right ventricles and atria. More recently, several other clinical contexts, like non-communicable chronic diseases (NCCD), have actually been benefitting from specific evaluation by strain analysis. Lately, some specific aspects of strain evaluation, particularly Global Longitudinal Strain (GLS) have been shown to provide useful information of clinical relevance in the case of cancer patients. This paper presents an initial review of the recent applications of strain analysis in cardio-oncology, in order to share the recent experience in this field and to support the role of these parameters in cardio-oncology.
Application of a Loop-Type Laboratory Biofilm Reactor to the Evaluation of Biofilm for Some Metallic Materials and Polymers such as Urinary Stents and Catheters
Authors: Kanematsu Hideyuki , Kudara Hikonaru , Kanesaki Shun , Kogo Takeshi , Ikegai Hajime , Ogawa Akiko , Hirai Nobumitsu
Published: October 2016

A laboratory biofilm reactor (LBR) was modified to a new loop-type closed system in order to evaluate novel stents and catheter materials using 3D optical microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Two metallic specimens, pure nickel and cupronickel (80% Cu-20% Ni), along with two polymers, silicone and polyurethane, were chosen as examples to ratify the system. Each set of specimens was assigned to the LBR using either tap water or an NB (Nutrient broth based on peptone from animal foods and beef extract mainly)—cultured solution with E-coli formed over 48–72 h. The specimens were then analyzed using Raman Spectroscopy. 3D optical microscopy was employed to corroborate the Raman Spectroscopy results for only the metallic specimens since the inherent roughness of the polymer specimens made such measurements difficult. The findings suggest that the closed loop-type LBR together with Raman spectroscopy analysis is a useful method for evaluating biomaterials as a potential urinary system.
Residues Responsible for the Selectivity of α-Conotoxins for Ac-AChBP or nAChRs
Authors: Lin Bo , Xiang Shihua , Li Mengsen
Published: October 2016

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are targets for developing new drugs to treat severe pain, nicotine addiction, Alzheimer disease, epilepsy, etc. α-Conotoxins are biologically and chemically diverse. With 12–19 residues and two disulfides, they can be specifically selected for different nAChRs. Acetylcholine-binding proteins from Aplysia californica (Ac-AChBP) are homologous to the ligand-binding domains of nAChRs and pharmacologically similar. X-ray structures of the α-conotoxin in complex with Ac-AChBP in addition to computer modeling have helped to determine the binding site of the important residues of α-conotoxin and its affinity for nAChR subtypes. Here, we present the various α-conotoxin residues that are selective for Ac-AChBP or nAChRs by comparing the structures of α-conotoxins in complex with Ac-AChBP and by modeling α-conotoxins in complex with nAChRs. The knowledge of these binding sites will assist in the discovery and design of more potent and selective α-conotoxins as drug leads.
Erylusamides: Novel Atypical Glycolipids from Erylus cf. deficiens
Authors: Gaspar Helena , Cutignano Adele , Grauso Laura , Neng Nuno , Cachatra Vasco , Fontana Angelo , Xavier Joana , Cerejo Marta , Vieira Helena , Santos Susana
Published: October 2016

Among marine organisms, sponges are the richest sources of pharmacologically-active compounds. Stemming from a previous lead discovery program that gathered a comprehensive library of organic extracts of marine sponges from the off-shore region of Portugal, crude extracts of Erylus cf. deficiens collected in the Gorringe Bank (Atlantic Ocean) were tested in the innovative high throughput screening (HTS) assay for inhibitors of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) and showed activity. Bioassay guided fractionation of the dichloromethane extract led to the isolation of four new glycolipids, named erylusamide A–D. The structures of the isolated compounds were established by 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HR-ESI-MS) and chemical derivatization. The metabolites shared a pentasaccharide moiety constituted by unusual highly acetylated ᴅ-glucose moieties as well as ᴅ-xylose and ᴅ-galactose. The aglycones were unprecedented long chain dihydroxyketo amides. Erylusamides A, B and D differ in the length of the hydrocarbon chain, while erylusamide C is a structural isomer of erylusamide B.
New Metabolites and Bioactive Actinomycins from Marine-Derived Streptomyces sp. ZZ338
Authors: Zhang Xiufang , Ye Xuewei , Chai Weiyun , Lian Xiao-Yuan , Zhang Zhizhen
Published: October 2016

An extract prepared from the culture of a marine-derived actinomycete Streptomyces sp. ZZ338 was found to have significant antimicrobial and antiproliferative activities. A chemical investigation of this active extract resulted in the isolation of three known bioactive actinomycins (1–3) and two new metabolites (4 and 5). The structures of the isolated compounds were identified as actinomycins D (1), V (2), X0β (3), 2-acetylamino-3-hydroxyl-4-methyl-benzoic acid methyl ester (4), and N-1S-(4-methylaminophenylmethyl)-2-oxo-propyl acetamide (5) based on their nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and high resolution electrospray ionization mass spectroscopy (HRESIMS) data as well as their optical rotation. This class of new compound 5 had never before been found from a natural resource. Three known actinomycins showed activities in inhibiting the proliferation of glioma cells and the growth of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans and are responsible for the activity of the crude extract. Actinomycin D (1) was also found to downregulate several glioma metabolic enzymes of glycolysis, glutaminolysis, and lipogenesis, suggesting that targeting multiple tumor metabolic regulators might be a new anti-glioma mechanism of actinomycin D. This is the first report of such a possible mechanism for the class of actinomycins.
Review of Microfluidic Photobioreactor Technology for Metabolic Engineering and Synthetic Biology of Cyanobacteria and Microalgae
Authors: Yang Ya-Tang , Wang Chun
Published: October 2016

One goal of metabolic engineering and synthetic biology for cyanobacteria and microalgae is to engineer strains that can optimally produce biofuels and commodity chemicals. However, the current workflow is slow and labor intensive with respect to assembly of genetic parts and characterization of production yields because of the slow growth rates of these organisms. Here, we review recent progress in the microfluidic photobioreactors and identify opportunities and unmet needs in metabolic engineering and synthetic biology. Because of the unprecedented experimental resolution down to the single cell level, long-term real-time monitoring capability, and high throughput with low cost, microfluidic photobioreactor technology will be an indispensible tool to speed up the development process, advance fundamental knowledge, and realize the full potential of metabolic engineering and synthetic biology for cyanobacteria and microalgae.
Biphasic Polyurethane/Polylactide Sponges Doped with Nano-Hydroxyapatite (nHAp) Combined with Human Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Stem Cells for Regenerative Medicine Applications
Authors: Marycz Krzysztof , Marędziak Monika , Grzesiak Jakub , Lis Anna , Śmieszek Agnieszka
Published: October 2016

Cartilage and bone tissue injuries are common targets in regenerative medicine. The degeneration of cartilage tissue results in tissue loss with a limited ability to regenerate. However, the application of mesenchymal stem cells in the course of such condition makes it possible to manage this disorder by improving the structure of the remaining tissue and even stimulating its regeneration. Nevertheless, in the case of significant tissue loss, standard local injection of cell suspensions is insufficient, due to the low engraftment of transplanted cells. Introduction of mesenchymal stem cells on the surface of a compatible biomaterial can be a promising tool for inducing the regeneration by both retaining the cells at the desired site and filling the tissue gap. In order to obtain such a cell-biomaterial hybrid, we developed complex, biphasic polymer blend biomaterials composed of various polyurethane (PU)-to-polylactide (PLA) ratios, and doped with different concentrations of nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAp). We have determined the optimal blend composition and nano-hydroxyapatite concentration for adipose mesenchymal stem cells cultured on the biomaterial. We applied biological in vitro techniques, including cell viability assay, determination of oxidative stress factors level, osteogenic and chondrogenic differentiation potentials as well as cell proteomic analysis. We have shown that the optimal composition of biphasic scaffold was 20:80 of PU:PLA with 20% of nHAp for osteogenic differentiation, and 80:20 of PU:PLA with 10% of nHAp for chondrogenic differentiation, which suggest the optimal composition of final biphasic implant for regenerative medicine applications.
Research Articles about Open Access Indexed by Scopus: A Content Analysis
Authors: Rodrigues Rosângela , Taga Vitor , Passos Mariana
Published: October 2016

This study analyzes research articles about open access (OA) indexed by the Scopus database, published from 2001 to 2015, in order to: (a) propose a categorization scheme about OA; (b) categorize the scientific production about OA; and (c) identify research trends on OA through disciplines at international level over time. The authors used descriptive statistical methods and deductive content analysis using an unconstrained matrix in 347 selected research articles. The most explored themes were found to be “overview, current state, and growth of OA” counting for 98 articles (28.2%), and “awareness, perceptions, and attitudes toward OA” for 75 articles (21.6%). As a conclusion, this study reveals a continuous and growing research interest by the OA community in studies focused on case studies regarding the development or evolution of OA in relation to certain groups, institutions, regions, periods, and how different actors perceive and address the OA movement.
Seasonal to Interannual Variability of Satellite-Based Precipitation Estimates in the Pacific Ocean Associated with ENSO from 1998 to 2014
Authors: Hou Xueyan , Long Di , Hong Yang , Xie Hongjie
Published: October 2016

Based on a widely used satellite precipitation product (TRMM Multi-satellite Precipitation Analysis 3B43), we analyzed the spatiotemporal variability of precipitation over the Pacific Ocean for 1998–2014 at seasonal and interannual timescales, separately, using the conventional empirical orthogonal function (EOF) and investigated the seasonal patterns associated with El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycles using season-reliant empirical orthogonal function (SEOF) analysis. Lagged correlation analysis was also applied to derive the lead/lag correlations of the first two SEOF modes for precipitation with Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) and two types of El Niño, i.e., central Pacific (CP) El Niño and eastern Pacific (EP) El Niño. We found that: (1) The first two seasonal EOF modes for precipitation represent the annual cycle of precipitation variations for the Pacific Ocean and the first interannual EOF mode shows the spatiotemporal variability associated with ENSO; (2) The first SEOF mode for precipitation is simultaneously associated with the development of El Niño and most likely coincides with CP El Niño. The second SEOF mode lagged behind ENSO by one year and is associated with post-El Niño years. PDO modulates precipitation variability significantly only when ENSO occurs by strengthening and prolonging the impacts of ENSO; (3) Seasonally evolving patterns of the first two SEOF modes represent the consecutive precipitation patterns associated with the entire development of EP El Niño and the following recovery year. The most significant variation occurs over the tropical Pacific, especially in the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and South Pacific Convergence Zone (SPCZ); (4) Dry conditions in the western basin of the warm pool and wet conditions along the ITCZ and SPCZ bands during the mature phase of El Niño are associated with warm sea surface temperatures in the central tropical Pacific, and a subtropical anticyclone dominating over the northwestern Pacific. These findings may be useful for prediction of seasonal precipitation anomalies over the Pacific Ocean during El Niño years and recovery years.
Adaptive Collaborative Gaussian Mixture Probability Hypothesis Density Filter for Multi-Target Tracking
Authors: Yang Feng , Wang Yongqi , Chen Hao , Zhang Pengyan , Liang Yan
Published: October 2016

In this paper, an adaptive collaborative Gaussian Mixture Probability Hypothesis Density (ACo-GMPHD) filter is proposed for multi-target tracking with automatic track extraction. Based on the evolutionary difference between the persistent targets and the birth targets, the measurements are adaptively partitioned into two parts, persistent and birth measurement sets, for updating the persistent and birth target Probability Hypothesis Density, respectively. Furthermore, the collaboration mechanism of multiple probability hypothesis density (PHDs) is established, where tracks can be automatically extracted. Simulation results reveal that the proposed filter yields considerable computational savings in processing requirements and significant improvement in tracking accuracy.
Low-Coherence Reflectometry for Refractive Index Measurements of Cells in Micro-Capillaries
Authors: Carpignano Francesca , Rigamonti Giulia , Mazzini Giuliano , Merlo Sabina
Published: October 2016

The refractive index of cells provides insights into their composition, organization and function. Moreover, a good knowledge of the cell refractive index would allow an improvement of optical cytometric and diagnostic systems. Although interferometric techniques undoubtedly represent a good solution for quantifying optical path variation, obtaining the refractive index of a population of cells non-invasively remains challenging because of the variability in the geometrical thickness of the sample. In this paper, we demonstrate the use of infrared low-coherence reflectometry for non-invasively quantifying the average refractive index of cell populations gently confined in rectangular glass micro-capillaries. A suspension of human red blood cells in plasma is tested as a reference. As a use example, we apply this technique to estimate the average refractive index of cell populations belonging to epithelial and hematological families.
Design and Evaluation of a Scalable and Reconfigurable Multi-Platform System for Acoustic Imaging
Authors: Izquierdo Alberto , Villacorta Juan , Del Val Puente Lara , Suárez Luis
Published: October 2016

This paper proposes a scalable and multi-platform framework for signal acquisition and processing, which allows for the generation of acoustic images using planar arrays of MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) microphones with low development and deployment costs. Acoustic characterization of MEMS sensors was performed, and the beam pattern of a module, based on an 8 × 8 planar array and of several clusters of modules, was obtained. A flexible framework, formed by an FPGA, an embedded processor, a computer desktop, and a graphic processing unit, was defined. The processing times of the algorithms used to obtain the acoustic images, including signal processing and wideband beamforming via FFT, were evaluated in each subsystem of the framework. Based on this analysis, three frameworks are proposed, defined by the specific subsystems used and the algorithms shared. Finally, a set of acoustic images obtained from sound reflected from a person are presented as a case study in the field of biometric identification. These results reveal the feasibility of the proposed system.
Morbillivirus Experimental Animal Models: Measles Virus Pathogenesis Insights from Canine Distemper Virus
Authors: Da Fontoura Budaszewski Renata , Von Messling Veronika
Published: October 2016

Morbilliviruses share considerable structural and functional similarities. Even though disease severity varies among the respective host species, the underlying pathogenesis and the clinical signs are comparable. Thus, insights gained with one morbillivirus often apply to the other members of the genus. Since the Canine distemper virus (CDV) causes severe and often lethal disease in dogs and ferrets, it is an attractive model to characterize morbillivirus pathogenesis mechanisms and to evaluate the efficacy of new prophylactic and therapeutic approaches. This review compares the cellular tropism, pathogenesis, mechanisms of persistence and immunosuppression of the Measles virus (MeV) and CDV. It then summarizes the contributions made by studies on the CDV in dogs and ferrets to our understanding of MeV pathogenesis and to vaccine and drugs development.