bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knockdown of Host Antioxidant Defense Genes Enhances the Effect of Glucantime on Intracellular Leishmania braziliensis in Human Macrophages
Authors: Téllez Jair , Romero Ibeth , Soares Maurilio José , Steindel Mario , Romanha Alvaro José
Published: May 2017

Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease that affects millions of people worldwide and represents a major public health problem. Information on protein expression patterns and functional roles within the context of
Leishmania
-infected human monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) under drug treatment conditions is essential for understanding the role of these cells in leishmaniasis treatment. We analyzed functional changes in the expression of human MDM genes and proteins during
in vitro
infection by
Leishmania braziliensis
and treatment with Glucantime (Sb
V
), using quantitative PCR (qPCR) arrays, Western blotting, confocal microscopy, and small interfering RNA (siRNA) human gene inhibition assays. Comparison of the results from gene transcription and protein expression analyses revealed that glutathione
S
-transferase π1 (GSTP1), glutamate-cysteine ligase modifier subunit (GCLM), glutathione reductase (GSR), glutathione synthetase (GSS), thioredoxin (TRX), and ATP-binding cassette, subfamily B, member 5 (ABCB5), were strongly upregulated at both the mRNA and protein levels in human MDMs that were infected and treated, compared to the control group. Subcellular localization studies showed a primarily phagolysosomal location for the ABCB5 transporter, indicating that this protein may be involved in the transport of Sb
V
. By inducing a decrease in
L. braziliensis
intracellular survival in THP-1 macrophages, siRNA silencing of
GSTP1
,
GSS
, and
ABCB5
resulted in an increased leishmanicidal effect of Sb
V
exposure
in vitro
. Our results suggest that human MDMs infected with
L. braziliensis
and treated with Sb
V
express increased levels of genes participating in antioxidant defense, whereas our functional analyses provide evidence for the involvement of human MDMs in drug detoxification. Therefore, we conclude that GSS, GSTP1, and ABCB5 proteins represent potential targets for enhancing the leishmanicidal activity of Glucantime.
In Vitro
and
In Vivo
Efficacy of an LpxC Inhibitor, CHIR-090, Alone or Combined with Colistin against Pseudomonas aeruginosa Biofilm
Authors: Tan Jun Hou , Vidaillac Celine , Yam Joey Kuok Hoong , Chua Song Lin , Givskov Michael , Yang Liang
Published: May 2017

With the rapid spread of antimicrobial resistance in Gram-negative pathogens, biofilm-associated infections are increasingly harder to treat and combination therapy with colistin has become one of the most efficient therapeutic strategies. Our study aimed to evaluate the potential for the synergy of colistin combined with CHIR-090, a potent LpxC inhibitor, against
in vitro
and
in vivo
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
biofilms. Four
P. aeruginosa
isolates with various colistin susceptibilities were chosen for evaluation. The tested isolates of
P. aeruginosa
exhibited MIC values ranging from 1 to 64 and 0.0625 to 0.5 μg/ml for colistin and CHIR-090, respectively. Against 24-h static biofilms, minimum biofilm eradication concentration values ranged from 256 to 512 and 8 to >128 μg/ml for colistin and CHIR-090, respectively. Interestingly, subinhibitory concentrations of CHIR-090 contributed to the eradication of subpopulations of
P. aeruginosa
with the highest colistin MIC values. The combination of colistin and CHIR-090 at subinhibitory concentrations demonstrated synergistic activity both
in vivo
and
in vitro
and prevented the formation of colistin-tolerant subpopulations in
in vitro
biofilms. In summary, our study highlights the
in vivo
and
in vitro
synergistic activity of the colistin and CHIR-090 combination against both colistin-susceptible and -nonsusceptible
P. aeruginosa
biofilms. Further studies are warranted to investigate the clinical relevance of the combination of these two antimicrobials and outline the underlying mechanism for their synergistic action.
Host Serine/Threonine Kinases mTOR and Protein Kinase C-α Promote InlB-Mediated Entry of Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Bhalla Manmeet , Law Daria , Dowd Georgina C. , Ireton Keith
Published: May 2017

The bacterial pathogen
Listeria monocytogenes
causes foodborne illnesses resulting in gastroenteritis, meningitis, or abortion.
Listeria
induces its internalization into some human cells through interaction of the bacterial surface protein InlB with the host receptor tyrosine kinase Met. InlB-dependent entry requires localized polymerization of the host actin cytoskeleton. The signal transduction pathways that act downstream of Met to regulate actin filament assembly or other processes during
Listeria
uptake remain incompletely characterized. Here, we demonstrate important roles for the human serine/threonine kinases mTOR and protein kinase C-α (PKC-α) in InlB-dependent entry. Experiments involving RNA interference (RNAi) indicated that two multiprotein complexes containing mTOR, mTORC1 and mTORC2, are each needed for efficient internalization of
Listeria
into cells of the human cell line HeLa. InlB stimulated Met-dependent phosphorylation of mTORC1 or mTORC2 substrates, demonstrating activation of both mTOR-containing complexes. RNAi studies indicated that the mTORC1 effectors 4E-BP1 and hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) and the mTORC2 substrate PKC-α each control
Listeria
uptake. Genetic or pharmacological inhibition of PKC-α reduced the internalization of
Listeria
and the accumulation of actin filaments that normally accompanies InlB-mediated entry. Collectively, our results identify mTOR and PKC-α to be host factors exploited by
Listeria
to promote infection. PKC-α controls
Listeria
entry, at least in part, by regulating the actin cytoskeleton downstream of the Met receptor.
Bacterial PerO Permeases Transport Sulfate and Related Oxyanions
Authors: Hoffmann Marie-Christine , Pfänder Yvonne , Tintel Marc , Masepohl Bernd
Published: May 2017

Rhodobacter capsulatus
synthesizes the high-affinity ABC transporters CysTWA and ModABC to specifically import the chemically related oxyanions sulfate and molybdate, respectively. In addition,
R. capsulatus
has the low-affinity permease PerO acting as a general oxyanion transporter, whose elimination increases tolerance to molybdate and tungstate. Although PerO-like permeases are widespread in bacteria, their function has not been examined in any other species to date. Here, we present evidence that PerO permeases from the alphaproteobacteria
Agrobacterium tumefaciens
,
Dinoroseobacter shibae
,
Rhodobacter sphaeroides
, and
Sinorhizobium meliloti
and the gammaproteobacterium
Pseudomonas stutzeri
functionally substitute for
R. capsulatus
PerO in sulfate uptake and sulfate-dependent growth, as shown by assimilation of radioactively labeled sulfate and heterologous complementation. Disruption of
perO
genes in
A. tumefaciens
,
R. sphaeroides
, and
S. meliloti
increased tolerance to tungstate and, in the case of
R. sphaeroides
, to molybdate, suggesting that heterometal oxyanions are common substrates of PerO permeases. This study supports the view that bacterial PerO permeases typically transport sulfate and related oxyanions and, hence, form a functionally conserved permease family.

IMPORTANCE
Despite the widespread distribution of PerO-like permeases in bacteria, our knowledge about PerO function until now was limited to one species,
Rhodobacter capsulatus
. In this study, we showed that PerO proteins from diverse bacteria are functionally similar to the
R. capsulatus
prototype, suggesting that PerO permeases form a conserved family whose members transport sulfate and related oxyanions.
Implementation of the mouse frailty index
Authors: Kane Alice E. , Ayaz Omar , Ghimire Anjali , Feridooni Hirad A. , Howlett Susan E.
Published: May 2017

Frailty is considered a state of high vulnerability for adverse health outcomes for people of the same age. Those who are frail have higher mortality, worse health outcomes, and use more health care services than those who are not frail. Despite this, little is known about the biology of frailty, the effect of frailty on pharmacological or surgical outcomes, and potential interventions to attenuate frailty. In humans, frailty can be quantified using a frailty index (FI) based on the principle of deficit accumulation. The recent development of an FI in naturally ageing mice provides an opportunity to conduct frailty research in a validated preclinical model. The mouse FI has been successfully used across a wide range of applications; however, there are some factors that should be considered in implementing this tool. This review summarises the current literature, presents some original data, and suggests areas for future research on the current applications of the mouse FI, inter-rater reliability of the FI, the effect of observer characteristics and environmental factors on mouse FI scores, and the individual items that make up the FI assessment. The implementation of this tool into preclinical frailty research should greatly accelerate translational research in this important field.
Microplastics in the gastrointestinal tracts of fish and the water from an urban prairie creek
Authors: Campbell Samantha H. , Williamson Patrick R. , Hall Britt D.
Published: May 2017

Microplastics are defined as any plastic with a diameter ≤5 mm. Problems associated with these plastics such as contamination of both marine and freshwater environments and ingestion by aquatic organisms are of increasing concern. Our study quantifies the number of microplastics in a prairie creek immediately downstream of Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada. Water samples and five species of fish were collected from sample sites upstream and downstream of a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in the summers of 2015 and 2016. Samples were digested in either a Fe(II)/H2O2 or NaClO solution and observed under a microscope where plastics present were enumerated by colour and type. At least one microplastic was detected in 73.5% of fish and 95.6% of water samples, showing that the creek does, in fact, contain microplastics. Concentrations were higher in water from upstream sites, likely due to dilution of creek water by the release of treated effluent. The results of this study provide baseline conditions for the presence of plastics in the creek prior to a major upgrade of the WWTP scheduled for completion in 2016.
General construction of reproducing kernels on a quaternionic Hilbert space
Authors: Thirulogasanthar K. , Ali S. Twareque
Published: May 2017

A general theory of reproducing kernels and reproducing kernel Hilbert spaces on a right quaternionic Hilbert space is presented. Positive operator-valued measures and their connection to a class of generalized quaternionic coherent states are examined. A Naimark type extension theorem associated with the positive operator-valued measures is proved in a right quaternionic Hilbert space. As illustrative examples, real, complex and quaternionic reproducing kernels and reproducing kernel Hilbert spaces arising from Hermite and Laguerre polynomials are presented. In particular, in the Laguerre case, the Naimark type extension theorem on the associated quaternionic Hilbert space is indicated.
A distribution of rational homology 3-spheres captured by the CWL invariant Phase 1
Authors: Maruyama Noriko
Published: May 2017

Taking advantage of a numerical invariant, we visualize a distribution of rational homology 3-spheres on a plane via the Casson–Walker–Lescop (CWL) invariant and observe several aspects of the distribution. In particular, we study the characteristics of the distribution of lens spaces as a fundamental family of rational homology 3-spheres with a way to yield a family of estimation for the Dedekind sum. The CWL invariant captures the finiteness of lens space surgeries along knots. According to the finiteness, for example, the CWL invariant determines possible lens spaces as the results of integral surgeries along a knot [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text].
The bound state solutions of the D-dimensional Schrödinger equation for the Hulthén potential within SUSY quantum mechanics
Authors: Ahmadov H. I. , Qocayeva M. V. , Huseynova N. Sh.
Published: May 2017

In this paper, the analytical solutions of the [Formula: see text]-dimensional hyper-radial Schrödinger equation are studied in great detail for the Hulthén potential. Within the framework, a novel improved scheme to surmount centrifugal term, the energy eigenvalues and corresponding radial wave functions are found for any [Formula: see text] orbital angular momentum case within the context of the Nikiforov–Uvarov (NU) and supersymmetric quantum mechanics (SUSY QM) methods. In this way, based on these methods, the same expressions are obtained for the energy eigenvalues, and the expression of radial wave functions transforming each other is demonstrated. The energy levels are worked out and the corresponding normalized eigenfunctions are obtained in terms of orthogonal polynomials for arbitrary [Formula: see text] states for [Formula: see text]-dimensional space.
HAUSDORFF DIMENSION OF THE IRREGULAR SET IN NON-UNIFORMLY HYPERBOLIC SYSTEMS
Authors: MA GUAN-ZHONG , YAO XIAO
Published: May 2017

We prove that the irregular set is either empty or full of Hausdorff dimension in a class of one-dimensional non-uniformly hyperbolic dynamic systems.
Market Correlation Structure Changes Around the Great Crash: A Random Matrix Theory Analysis of the Chinese Stock Market
Authors: Han Rui-Qi , Xie Wen-Jie , Xiong Xiong , Zhang Wei , Zhou Wei-Xing
Published: May 2017

The correlation structure of a stock market contains important financial contents, which may change remarkably due to the occurrence of financial crisis. We perform a comparative analysis of the Chinese stock market around the occurrence of the 2008 crisis based on the random matrix analysis of high-frequency stock returns of 1228 Chinese stocks. Both raw correlation matrix and partial correlation matrix with respect to the market index in two time periods of one year are investigated. We find that the Chinese stocks have stronger average correlation and partial correlation in 2008 than in 2007 and the average partial correlation is significantly weaker than the average correlation in each period. Accordingly, the largest eigenvalue of the correlation matrix is remarkably greater than that of the partial correlation matrix in each period. Moreover, each largest eigenvalue and its eigenvector reflect an evident market effect, while other deviating eigenvalues do not. We find no evidence that deviating eigenvalues contain industrial sectorial information. Surprisingly, the eigenvectors of the second largest eigenvalues in 2007 and of the third largest eigenvalues in 2008 are able to distinguish the stocks from the two exchanges. We also find that the component magnitudes of the some largest eigenvectors are proportional to the stocks’ capitalizations.
Multiscale Symbolic Phase Transfer Entropy in Financial Time Series Classification
Authors: Zhang Ningning , Lin Aijing , Shang Pengjian
Published: May 2017

We address the challenge of classifying financial time series via a newly proposed multiscale symbolic phase transfer entropy (MSPTE). Using MSPTE method, we succeed to quantify the strength and direction of information flow between financial systems and classify financial time series, which are the stock indices from Europe, America and China during the period from 2006 to 2016 and the stocks of banking, aviation industry and pharmacy during the period from 2007 to 2016, simultaneously. The MSPTE analysis shows that the value of symbolic phase transfer entropy (SPTE) among stocks decreases with the increasing scale factor. It is demonstrated that MSPTE method can well divide stocks into groups by areas and industries. In addition, it can be concluded that the MSPTE analysis quantify the similarity among the stock markets. The symbolic phase transfer entropy (SPTE) between the two stocks from the same area is far less than the SPTE between stocks from different areas. The results also indicate that four stocks from America and Europe have relatively high degree of similarity and the stocks of banking and pharmaceutical industry have higher similarity for CA. It is worth mentioning that the pharmaceutical industry has weaker particular market mechanism than banking and aviation industry.
Symmetry and pseudosymmetry of v-Yetter–Drinfeld categories for Hom–Hopf algebras
Authors: Fang Xiao-Li , Kim Tae-Hwa , Zhang Xiao-Hui
Published: May 2017

The purpose of this paper is to introduce the category of [Formula: see text]-Yetter–Drinfeld modules ([Formula: see text]) over a Hom–Hopf algebra. We first prove that every category of [Formula: see text]-Yetter–Drinfeld modules over a Hom–Hopf algebra with a bijective antipode [Formula: see text] is a braided tensor category and that every [Formula: see text]-Yetter–Drinfeld module can provide the solution of the Hom–Yang–Baxter equation. Secondly, we find sufficient and necessary conditions for [Formula: see text] to be symmetric and pseudosymmetric, respectively. Finally, we construct examples of [Formula: see text]-Yetter–Drinfeld modules by a quasitriangular Hom–Hopf algebra and study their relationship.
Hecke operators on half-integral weight Siegel Eisenstein series
Authors: Walling Lynne H.
Published: May 2017

We construct a basis for the space of half-integral weight Siegel Eisenstein series of level [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] is odd and square-free. Then we restrict our attention to those Eisenstein series generated from elements of [Formula: see text], commenting on why this restriction is necessary for our methods. We directly apply to these forms all Hecke operators attached to odd primes, and we realize the images explicitly as linear combinations of Siegel Eisenstein series. Using this information, we diagonalize the subspace of Eisenstein series generated from elements of [Formula: see text], obtaining a multiplicity-one result.
Stability of Rankin–Selberg gamma factors for Sp(2n),Sp̃(2n) and U(n,n)
Authors: Zhang Qing
Published: May 2017

Let [Formula: see text] be a [Formula: see text]-adic field and [Formula: see text] be a quadratic extension. In this paper, we prove a stability result on partial Bessel functions associated with Howe vectors for generic representations of reductive group of type [Formula: see text]. As a consequence, we reprove the stability of Rankin–Selberg gamma factors for [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] when the characteristic of the residue field of [Formula: see text] is not [Formula: see text].
Diophantine approximation by unlike powers of primes
Authors: Liu Zhixin
Published: May 2017

Let [Formula: see text] be nonzero real numbers not all of the same sign, satisfying that [Formula: see text] is irrational, and [Formula: see text] be a real number. In this paper, we prove that for any [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text] has infinitely many solutions in prime variables [Formula: see text].
Additive bases of Cp ⊕ Cpn
Authors: Qu Yongke , Han Dongchun
Published: May 2017

Let [Formula: see text] be a finite abelian group, and [Formula: see text] be the smallest prime dividing [Formula: see text]. Let [Formula: see text] be a sequence over [Formula: see text]. We say that [Formula: see text] is regular if for every proper subgroup [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] contains at most [Formula: see text] terms from [Formula: see text]. Let [Formula: see text] be the smallest integer [Formula: see text] such that every regular sequence [Formula: see text] over [Formula: see text] of length [Formula: see text] forms an additive basis of [Formula: see text], i.e. [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we show that [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text].
Modeling of cognitive brain activity through the information images theory in terms of the bilingual Stroop test
Authors: Petukhov Alexander Y. , Polevaya Sophia A.
Published: May 2017

The paper presents the basic principles of the information image theory and a mathematical model developed using it. The hierarchy of information images in an individual mind, which determines his∖her real and virtual activity, is considered. Algorithms for describing transfer and distortion of information images by individuals in the communication process are constructed.

To corroborate the theory experimentally, the bilingual Stroop test is used. The results of the test are interpreted using the introduced theory, and are then compared with the results of computer modeling based on the theory. It is shown that information images can be used not only to explain a number of cognitive processes of the human mind, but also to predict their dynamics in a number of particular cases.
Comparative studies for the fractional optimal control in transmission dynamics of West Nile virus
Authors: Sweilam N. H. , Saad O. M. , Mohamed D. G.
Published: May 2017

In this paper, optimal control for a novel West Nile virus (WNV) model of fractional order derivative is presented. The proposed model is governed by a system of fractional differential equations (FDEs), where the fractional derivative is defined in the Caputo sense. An optimal control problem is formulated and studied theoretically using the Pontryagin maximum principle. Two numerical methods are used to study the fractional-order optimal control problem. The methods are, the iterative optimal control method (OCM) and the generalized Euler method (GEM). Positivity, boundedness and convergence of the IOCM are studied. Comparative studies between the proposed methods are implemented, it is found that the IOCM is better than the GEM.
On ID∗-derivations of Filippov algebras
Authors: Saeedi F. , Sheikh-Mohseni S.
Published: May 2017

Let [Formula: see text] be a Filippov algebra. A derivation of [Formula: see text] is called an [Formula: see text]-derivation if its image is contained in the derived algebra of [Formula: see text]. Let [Formula: see text] be the set of all [Formula: see text]-derivations which map central elements to [Formula: see text]. We prove that [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are isomorphic for any two isoclinic Filippov algebras [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text].
Motion of Skyrmions in Well-Separated Two-Lane Racetracks
Authors: Lai P. , Zhao G. P. , Morvan F. J. , Wu S. Q. , Ran N.
Published: May 2017

Magnetic skyrmions are topological structures which can be used to store information as data bits in metallic racetrack memories. Their good properties, such as their stability, small size and low currents needed to drive them make them better candidates than traditional magnetic domain walls for the building of the next generation data storage. A skyrmion racetrack memory has been suggested, with the binary data encoded in the distance between skyrmions when the racetrack is a single lane. Here, we propose a new skyrmion-based two-lane racetrack structure separated by a high-[Formula: see text] (high magnetocrystalline anisotropy) middle lane, which confines the skyrmions in their respective lanes. This design gives a new data presentation for the skyrmions on the racetrack. Phase diagrams for the skyrmion motion on the proposed racetrack as functions of the current density, middle lane anisotropy, middle lane width and DMI constant have been calculated and given, demonstrating that skyrmions can be driven in different lanes of the racetrack. This design offers the possibility of building an ultrafast and energy-efficient skyrmion transport device.
INDIVIDUAL FOREIGN EXCHANGE INVESTORS, RETURN PREDICTABILITY AND MARKET TIMING
Authors: ABUELFADL MOUSTAFA
Published: May 2017

This study tests whether individual foreign exchange (Forex) investors can predict future returns, time the market and generate alpha after transaction costs. Using a sample of 1,231 Forex trading accounts and 72,072 trades, the results show that individual Forex investors can predict future returns up to eight days after trade execution, even after controlling for Volatility. The results of return predictability are significant because they support the idea that linear independence is rejected as well as provide empirical evidence that private information is available in the foreign exchange market.
Ion–Molecule Reaction Dynamics
Authors: Meyer Jennifer , Wester Roland
Published: May 2017

We review the recent advances in the investigation of the dynamics of ion–molecule reactions. During the past decade, the combination of single-collision experiments in crossed ion and neutral beams with the velocity map ion imaging detection technique has enabled a wealth of studies on ion–molecule reactions. These methods, in combination with chemical dynamics simulations, have uncovered new and unexpected reaction mechanisms, such as the roundabout mechanism and the subtle influence of the leaving group in anion–molecule nucleophilic substitution reactions. For this important class of reactions, as well as for many fundamental cation–molecule reactions, the information obtained with crossed-beam imaging is discussed. The first steps toward understanding micro-solvation of ion–molecule reaction dynamics are presented. We conclude with the presentation of several interesting directions for future research.
Extending Quantum Chemistry of Bound States to Electronic Resonances
Authors: Jagau Thomas-C. , Bravaya Ksenia B. , Krylov Anna I.
Published: May 2017

Electronic resonances are metastable states with finite lifetime embedded in the ionization or detachment continuum. They are ubiquitous in chemistry, physics, and biology. Resonances play a central role in processes as diverse as DNA radiolysis, plasmonic catalysis, and attosecond spectroscopy. This review describes novel equation-of-motion coupled-cluster (EOM-CC) methods designed to treat resonances and bound states on an equal footing. Built on complex-variable techniques such as complex scaling and complex absorbing potentials that allow resonances to be associated with a single eigenstate of the molecular Hamiltonian rather than several continuum eigenstates, these methods extend electronic-structure tools developed for bound states to electronic resonances. Selected examples emphasize the formal advantages as well as the numerical accuracy of EOM-CC in the treatment of electronic resonances. Connections to experimental observables such as spectra and cross sections, as well as practical aspects of implementing complex-valued approaches, are also discussed.
Wideband RCS Reduction of Microstrip Array Antenna Based on Absorptive Frequency Selective Surface and Microstrip Resonators
Authors: Xue Jingjing , Jiang Wen , Gong Shuxi
Published: May 2017

An approach for wideband radar cross section (RCS) reduction of a microstrip array antenna is presented and discussed. The scheme is based on the microstrip resonators and absorptive frequency selective surface (AFSS) with a wideband absorptive property over the low band 1.9–7.5 GHz and a transmission characteristic at high frequency 11.05 GHz. The AFSS is designed to realize the out-of-band RCS reduction and preserve the radiation performance simultaneously, and it is placed above the antenna with the operating frequency of 11.05 GHz. Moreover, the microstrip resonators are loaded to obtain the in-band RCS reduction. As a result, a significant RCS reduction from 1.5 GHz to 13 GHz for both types of polarization has been accomplished. Compared with the reference antenna, the simulated results exhibit that the monostatic RCS of the proposed array antenna in x- and y-polarization can be reduced as much as 17.6 dB and 21.5 dB, respectively. And the measured results agree well with the simulated ones.
Low-Frequency Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Is Able to Modulate miRNAs in an Experimental Cell Model of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Capelli Enrica , Torrisi Filippo , Venturini Letizia , Granato Maria , Fassina Lorenzo , Lupo Giuseppe Francesco Damiano , Ricevuti Giovanni
Published: May 2017

The aim of the present study was to investigate on the effects of a low-frequency pulsed electromagnetic field (LF-PEMF) in an experimental cell model of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) to assess new therapies that counteract neurodegeneration. In recent scientific literature, it is documented that the deep brain stimulation via electromagnetic fields (EMFs) modulates the neurophysiological activity of the pathological circuits and produces clinical benefits in AD patients. EMFs are applied for tissue regeneration because of their ability to stimulate cell proliferation and immune functions via the HSP70 protein family. However, the effects of EMFs are still controversial and further investigations are required. Our results demonstrate the ability of our LF-PEMF to modulate gene expression in cell functions that are dysregulated in AD (i.e., BACE1) and that these effects can be modulated with different treatment conditions. Of relevance, we will focus on miRNAs regulating the pathways involved in brain degenerative disorders.
Chemical Characterization of Major and Minor Compounds of Nut Oils: Almond, Hazelnut, and Pecan Nut
Authors: Fernandes Gabriel D. , Gómez-Coca Raquel B. , Pérez-Camino María del Carmen , Moreda Wenceslao , Barrera-Arellano Daniel
Published: May 2017

The aim of this work was to characterize the major and minor compounds of laboratory-extracted and commercial oils from sweet almond, hazelnut, and pecan nut. Oils from sweet almond, hazelnut, and pecan nut were obtained by means of an expeller system, while the corresponding commercial oils were provided from Vital Âtman (BR). The contents of triacylglycerols, fatty acids, aliphatic and terpenic alcohols, desmethyl-, methyl-, and dimethylsterols, squalene, and tocopherols were determined. Oleic, palmitic, and linoleic acids were the main fatty acids. Desmethylsterols were the principal minor compounds withβ-sitosterol being the most abundant component. Low amounts of aliphatic and terpenic alcohols were also found. The major tocopherol in hazelnut and sweet almond oils wasα-tocopherol, whereasγ-tocopherol prevailed in pecan nut oil. Principal component analysis made it possible for us to differentiate among samples, as well as to distinguish between commercial and laboratory-extracted oils. Heatmap highlighted the main variables featuring each sample. Globally, these results have brought a new approach on nut oil characterization.
Influence of Crumb-Rubber in the Mechanical Response of Modified Portland Cement Concrete
Authors: Retama J. , Ayala A. G.
Published: May 2017

The influence of crumb-rubber on the mechanical properties of Portland cement concrete (PCC) is studied by experimental tests and numerical simulations. The main hypothesis of the study is that replacing part of the stone aggregate with crumb-rubber in the mix modifies the energy dissipation during the cracking process and affects the concrete behaviour under monotonically increasing loads. The experimental research program characterizes the mechanical properties of PCC for three different types of concrete with a variable content of crumb-rubber. The experimental results showed that fracture energy and other properties are directly related to the rubber fineness used in the mixture. The material properties derived for these laboratory tests are used to study, by numerical models, its response through its damage evolution. The numerical model used to simulate the damage evolution of the concrete is the Embedded Discontinuity Method (EDM). One characteristic of the EDM is that it does not need to modify the mesh topology to propagate the damage through the continuum solid. For this study, the Disk-Shaped Compact Tension specimen geometry, normed by the D7313-13 of the ASTM, is used. Results showed that the numerical methods provide good approximation of the experimental curve in the elastic and softening branches.
HIV‐1 Transactivator Protein Induces ZO‐1 and Neprilysin Dysfunction in Brain Endothelial Cells via the Ras Signaling Pathway
Authors: Jiang Wenlin , Huang Wen , Chen Yanlan , Zou Min , Peng Dingyue , Chen Debing
Published: May 2017

Amyloid beta (Aβ) deposition is increased in human immunodeficiency virus‐1‐ (HIV‐1‐) infected brain, but the mechanisms are not fully understood. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the role of Ras signaling in HIV‐1 transactivator protein‐ (Tat‐) induced Aβ accumulation in human cerebral microvascular endothelial cells (HBEC‐5i). Cell viability assay showed that 1 μg/mL Tat and 20 μmol/L of the Ras inhibitor farnesylthiosalicylic acid (FTS) had no significant effect on HBEC‐5i cell viability after 24 h exposure. Exposure to Tat decreased protein and mRNA levels of zonula occludens‐ (ZO‐) 1 and Aβ‐degrading enzyme neprilysin (NEP) in HBEC‐5i cells as determined by western blotting and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Exposure to Tat also increased transendothelial transfer of Aβ and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels; however, these effects were attenuated by FTS. Collectively, these results suggest that the Ras signaling pathway is involved in HIV‐1 Tat‐induced changes in ZO‐1 and NEP, as well as Aβ deposition in HBEC‐5i cells. FTS partially protects blood‐brain barrier (BBB) integrity and inhibits Aβ accumulation.
Genetic Variations and mRNA Expression of NRF2 in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Ran Caroline , Wirdefeldt Karin , Brodin Lovisa , Ramezani Mehrafarin , Westerlund Marie , Xiang Fengqing , Anvret Anna , Willows Thomas , Sydow Olof , Johansson Anders , Galter Dagmar , Svenningsson Per , Belin Andrea Carmine
Published: May 2017

Nuclear factor erythroid 2-like 2 (NRF2) encodes a transcription factor regulating mechanisms of cellular protection and is activated by oxidative stress. NRF2 has therefore been hypothesized to confer protection against Parkinson’s disease and so far an NRF2 haplotype has been reported to decrease the risk of developing disease and delay disease onset. Also NRF2 adopts a nuclear localization in Parkinson’s disease, which is indicative of increased NRF2 activity. We have investigated the association between NRF2 and Parkinson’s disease in a Swedish case-control material and whether NRF2 expression levels correlate with NRF2 genetic variants, disease, or disease onset. Using pyrosequencing, we genotyped one intronic and three promoter variants in 504 patients and 509 control subjects from Stockholm. Further, we quantified NRF2 mRNA expression in EBV transfected human lymphocytes from patients and controls using quantitative real-time reverse transcription PCR. We found that one of the promoter variants, rs35652124, was associated with age of disease onset (Χ2 = 14.19, p value = 0.0067). NRF2 mRNA expression levels however did not correlate with the rs35652124 genotype, Parkinson’s disease, or age of onset in our material. More detailed studies on NRF2 are needed in order to elucidate how this gene affects pathophysiology of Parkinson’s disease.
Experimental and Numerical Study on Modal Dynamic Response of Water-Surrounded Slender Bridge Pier with Pile Foundation
Authors: Deng Yulin , Guo Qingkang , Xu Lueqin
Published: May 2017

This paper presents an experimental program performed to study the effect of fluid-structure interaction on the modal dynamic response of water-surrounded slender bridge pier with pile foundation. A reduced scale slender bridge pier specimen is built and tested through forced vibration method. The vibration periods of the first four lateral modes, including the first two modes along x-axis and the first two modes along y-axis, are measured based on the specimen submerged by 16 levels of water and designated with 4 levels of tip mass. Three-dimensional (3D) finite-element models are established for the tested water-pier system and analyzed under various combined cases of water level and tip mass. Percentage increases of vibration periods with respect to dry vibration periods (i.e., vibration periods of the specimen without water) are determined as a function of water level and tip mass to evaluate the effect of fluid-structure interaction. The numerical results are successfully validated against the recorded test data. Based on the validated models, the modal hydrodynamic pressures are calculated to characterize the 3D distribution of hydrodynamic loads on the pier systems. The research provides a better illumination into the effect of fluid-structure interaction on the modal dynamic response of deepwater bridges.
ParacoccidioidesSpp.: Virulence Factors and Immune-Evasion Strategies
Authors: Camacho Emma , Niño-Vega Gustavo A.
Published: May 2017

Paracoccidioidesspp. are dimorphic fungal pathogens responsible for one of the most relevant systemic mycoses in Latin America, paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM). Their exact ecological niche remains unknown; however, they have been isolated from soil samples and armadillos (Dasypus novemcinctus), which have been proposed as animal reservoir for these fungi. Human infection occurs by inhalation of conidia or mycelia fragments and is mostly associated with immunocompetent hosts inhabiting and/or working in endemic rural areas. In this review focusing on the pathogen perspective, we will discuss some of the microbial attributes and molecular mechanisms that enableParacoccidioidesspp. to tolerate, adapt, and ultimately avoid the host immune response, establishing infection.
Comparison of Morphologic Parameters of Temporomandibular Joint for Asymptomatic Subjects Using the Two-Dimensional and Three-Dimensional Measuring Methods
Authors: Zhang Yuanli , Xu Xianchao , Liu Zhan
Published: May 2017

The differences of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) morphologic parameters by using two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) measuring methods were compared. Ten asymptomatic subjects (26.75 ± 4.89 years) were randomly recruited. The 3D models of the maxilla, mandible, and teeth were reconstructed according to cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) image data. The morphologic parameters of TMJs were measured by the 2D CBCT measuring method (group A) and the 3D reconstruction model measuring method (group B), respectively. The morphologic parameters in each group were assessed by paired samplest-test, and the statistical significance was achieved whenp<0.05. The horizontal condylar angle (HCA), sagittal ramus angle (SRA), medial joint space (MJS), lateral joint space (LJS), superior joint space (SJS), and anterior joint space (AJS) in group A were significantly smaller than those in group B (p<0.05). The HCA on the left side was significantly smaller than that on the right side in group A (p<0.05). However, all the morphologic parameters in group B were not significantly different between left and right sides. In conclusion, there were significant differences for the morphologic parameters of TMJ measured on 2D CBCT and 3D models. 3D measuring method should be used for the detection of TMJ morphology in clinical practice.
Comparative Transcriptome Analyses of Resistant and Susceptible Near-Isogenic Wheat Lines following Inoculation with Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici
Authors: Xing Piyi , Zhang Xueying , Bao Yinguang , Wang Yuhai , Wang Honggang , Li Xingfeng
Published: May 2017

Powdery mildew is one of the most important diseases of wheat. In this study, the leaf RNA samples of wheat NILs carrying powdery mildew resistant and susceptible Pm2 alleles (L031 and Chancellor) and its F1 hybrid at two time points (16 h and 96 h postinoculation) were used for RNA-seq analysis. We carry comparison between similar materials at different times and between different materials at same times. The overlapping DEGs between the dominant phenotypes (L031 and F1 hybrid) and the recessive phenotype (Chancellor) were 1028 and 2214 DEGs, which were clearly lower than those between the dominant and recessive parents and thus could provide relatively accurate and valuable information. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis of DEGs revealed that other than the expected defense-related genes, differential up- and downregulation of genes from many other signaling networks were also involved. Comparative transcriptome analysis also revealed that early-stage postinoculation is important and suitable time points to study expression profiles and signaling pathways of resistance-related genes following fungal inoculation. qRT-PCR analyses showed highly consistent expression patterns of genes with RNA-seq data. The results will aid in the identification of genes and signaling pathways involved in powdery mildew response in wheat.
Protective Effects of Methane‐Rich Saline on Rats with Lipopolysaccharide‐Induced Acute Lung Injury
Authors: Sun Aijun , Wang Weiheng , Ye Xiaojian , Wang Yang , Yang Xiangqun , Ye Zhouheng , Sun Xuejun , Zhang Chuansen
Published: May 2017

Objective. The aim of this research is to evaluate the protective effects of methane‐rich saline (MS) on lipopolysaccharide‐ (LPS‐) induced acute lung injury (ALI) and investigate its potential antioxidative, anti‐inflammatory, and antiapoptotic activities. Methods. LPS‐induced (20 mg/kg) ALI rats were injected with MS (2 ml/kg and 20 ml/kg) before the initiation of LPS induction. Survival rate was determined until 96 h after LPS was induced. Lung injury was assayed by oxygenation index, lung permeability index (LPI), wet‐to‐dry weight (W/D), and histology. The cells in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were counted. Oxidative stress was examined by the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Inflammatory factors including tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) in BALF were determined by ELISA. Lung tissue apoptosis was detected by TUNEL staining and western blotting of caspase‐3. Results. It was found that methane significantly prolonged the rat survival, decreased the lung W/D ratio and the content of the inflammatory factors, and reduced the amount of caspase‐3 and apoptotic index. In addition, MS increased the level of SOD and decreased the level of MDA significantly. Conclusions. MS protects the LPS‐challenged ALI via antioxidative, anti‐inflammatory, and antiapoptotic effect, which may prove to be a novel therapy for the clinical management of ALI.
Urinary Levels of IL-1β and GDNF in Preterm Neonates as Potential Biomarkers of Motor Development: A Prospective Study
Authors: Magalhães Rafael Coelho , Moreira Janaina Matos , Vieira Érica Leandro Marciano , Rocha Natália Pessoa , Miranda Débora Marques , Simões e Silva Ana Cristina
Published: May 2017

Objectives. To evaluate the association between inflammatory biomarkers, neurotrophic factors, birth conditions, and the presence of motor development abnormalities in preterm neonates. Methods. Plasma and urinary levels of cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNF, and IL-12p70), chemokines (CXCL8/IL-8, CCL2/MCP-1, CCL5/RANTES, CXCL10/IP-10, and CXCL9/MIG), and neurotrophic factors (BDNF and GDNF) were evaluated in 40 preterm neonates born between 28 and 32 incomplete weeks of gestation, at four distinct time points: at birth (umbilical cord blood) (T0), at 48 (T1), at 72 hours (T2), and at 3 weeks after birth (T3). Biomarkers levels were compared between different time points and then associated with Test of Infant Motor Performance (TIMP) percentiles. Results. Maternal age, plasma, and urinary concentrations of inflammatory molecules and neurotrophic factors were significantly different between groups with normal versus lower than expected motor development. Higher levels of GDNF were found in the group with lower than expected motor development, while IL-1β and CXCL8/IL-8 values were higher in the group with typical motor development. Conclusion. Measurements of cytokines and neurotrophic factors in spot urine may be useful in the follow-up of motor development in preterm neonates.
Therapeutic Hypothermia Reduces Oxidative Damage and Alters Antioxidant Defenses after Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Hackenhaar Fernanda S. , Medeiros Tássia M. , Heemann Fernanda M. , Behling Camile S. , Putti Jordana S. , Mahl Camila D. , Verona Cleber , da Silva Ana Carolina A. , Guerra Maria C. , Gonçalves Carlos A. S. , Oliveira Vanessa M. , Riveiro Diego F. M. , Vieira Silvia R. R. , Benfato Mara S.
Published: May 2017

After cardiac arrest, organ damage consequent to ischemia‐reperfusion has been attributed to oxidative stress. Mild therapeutic hypothermia has been applied to reduce this damage, and it may reduce oxidative damage as well. This study aimed to compare oxidative damage and antioxidant defenses in patients treated with controlled normothermia versus mild therapeutic hypothermia during postcardiac arrest syndrome. The sample consisted of 31 patients under controlled normothermia (36°C) and 11 patients treated with 24 h mild therapeutic hypothermia (33°C), victims of in‐ or out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest. Parameters were assessed at 6, 12, 36, and 72 h after cardiac arrest in the central venous blood samples. Hypothermic and normothermic patients had similar S100B levels, a biomarker of brain injury. Xanthine oxidase activity is similar between hypothermic and normothermic patients; however, it decreases posthypothermia treatment. Xanthine oxidase activity is positively correlated with lactate and S100B and inversely correlated with pH, calcium, and sodium levels. Hypothermia reduces malondialdehyde and protein carbonyl levels, markers of oxidative damage. Concomitantly, hypothermia increases the activity of erythrocyte antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione S‐transferase while decreasing the activity of serum paraoxonase‐1. These findings suggest that mild therapeutic hypothermia reduces oxidative damage and alters antioxidant defenses in postcardiac arrest patients.
Nonnegative Infinite Matrices that Preserve (p,q)-Convexity of Sequences
Authors: Selvaraj Chikkanna R. , Selvaraj Suguna
Published: May 2017

This paper deals with matrix transformations that preserve the (p,q)-convexity of sequences. The main result gives the necessary and sufficient conditions for a nonnegative infinite matrix A to preserve the (p,q)-convexity of sequences. Further, we give examples of such matrices for different values of p and q.
Surface Organic Modification of TiO2 Powder and Relevant Characterization
Authors: Zhou Hong , Sun Sijia , Ding Hao
Published: May 2017

Surface organic modification was conducted to TiO2 with modifiers to improve the dispersity and comparability of pigment TiO2 in application system by adjusting particle surface characteristics. Then, modification effects were characterized according to the changes in wetting contact angle and activation index of TiO2 before and after modification. Moreover, the modification mechanisms of sodium stearate and sodium oleate were studied by analyzing the characteristics of TiO2 surface functional groups in modification system and effects of modifiers. The results showed that, after being wet-processed with sodium stearate and sodium oleate, TiO2 could turn from surface hydrophilic to inductive hydrophobic with controllable degree. The wetting contact angle of modified TiO2 increased from 7° to 125.6° and 121.3°, respectively. The dispersity of TiO2 in organic medium was stronger than that in inorganic medium. The modifiers formed absorption with chemical property on TiO2 particle surface, so the inductive hydrophobicity of surface was stable.