bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of psyllium and gum Arabic biopolymers on the survival rate and storage stability in yogurt of Enterococcus duransIW3 encapsulated in alginate
Authors: Nami Yousef , Haghshenas Babak , Yari Khosroushahi Ahmad
Published: October 2016

Different herbal biopolymers were used to encapsulate Enterococcus durans IW3 to enhance its storage stability in yogurt and subsequently its endurance in gastrointestinal condition. Nine formulations of encapsulation were performed using alginate (ALG), ALG‐psyllium (PSY), and ALG‐gum Arabic (GA) blends. The encapsulation efficiency of all formulations, tolerance of encapsulated E. durans IW3 against low pH/high bile salt concentration, storage lifetime, and release profile of cells in natural condition of yogurt were evaluated. Result revealed 98.6% encapsulation efficiency and 76% survival rate for all formulation compared with the unencapsulated formulation cells (43%). The ALG‐PSY and ALG‐GA formulations have slightly higher survival rates at low pH and bile salt condition (i.e., 76–93% and 81–95%, respectively) compared with the ALG formulation. All encapsulated E. durans IW3 was released from the prepared beads of ALG after 90 min, whereas both probiotics encapsulated in ALG‐GA and ALG‐PSY were released after 60 min. Enterococcus durans IW3 was successfully encapsulated in ALG, ALG‐GA, and ALG‐PSY beads prepared by extrusion method. ALG‐GA and ALG‐PSY beads are suitable delivery carriers for the oral administration of bioactive compounds like probiotics. The GA and PSY gels exhibited better potential for encapsulation of probiotic bacteria cells because of the amendment of ALG difficulties and utilization of therapeutic and prebiotic potentials of these herbal biopolymers.
Low Cost and Rapidly Processed Randomly Oriented Carbon/Carbon Composite Bipolar Plate for PEM Fuel Cell
Authors: Raunija T. S. K. , Gautam R. K. , Bhradwaj V. M. , Nandikesan N. , Shaneeth M. , Sharma S. C. , Verma A.
Published: October 2016

The objective of the present work is to develop carbon/carbon (C/C) composite bipolar plate at low cost with rapid processing time by a novel process. Carbon/carbon composite was developed using exfoliated carbon fiber reinforcement, isroaniso as primary matrix precursor, and resole type phenolic resin as secondary matrix precursor. Randomly oriented hybrid carbon fiber (T‐800 and P‐75) reinforced hybrid carbon matrix composite was fabricated. The slicing and channel forming were carried out using simple and conventional machines. The competency of the material was investigated by characterizing and analyzing density, scanning electron miscroscopy (SEM), compressive strength, compressive modulus, flexural strength, tensile strength, impact strength, hardness, electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, coefficient of thermal expansion, permeability, and corrosion current. The C/C composite bipolar plate with exfoliated carbon fibers offered bulk density 1.75 g cm−3, tensile strength 45 MPa, flexural strength 98 MPa, compressive strength 205 MPa, electrical conductivity 190 (through‐plane) and 595 S cm−1 (in‐plane), and thermal conductivity 24 (through‐plane) and 51 W m−1 K−1 (in‐plane). Further, single cell test was performed to evaluate the effectiveness of the C/C composite bipolar plate in the PEM fuel cell and the performance was compared with the commercial graphite bipolar plate at different operating temperatures.
The intrinsic microglial clock system regulates interleukin‐6 expression
Authors: Nakazato Ryota , Hotta Shogo , Yamada Daisuke , Kou Miki , Nakamura Saki , Takahata Yoshifumi , Tei Hajime , Numano Rika , Hida Akiko , Shimba Shigeki , Mieda Michihiro , Hinoi Eiichi , Yoneda Yukio , Takarada Takeshi
Published: October 2016

Similar to neurons, microglia have an intrinsic molecular clock. The master clock oscillator Bmal1 modulates interleukin‐6 upregulation in microglial cells exposed to lipopolysaccharide. Bmal1 can play a role in microglial inflammatory responses. We previously demonstrated that gliotransmitter ATP induces transient expression of the clock gene Period1 via P2X7 purinergic receptors in cultured microglia. In this study, we further investigated mechanisms underlying the regulation of pro‐inflammatory cytokine production by clock molecules in microglial cells. Several clock gene transcripts exhibited oscillatory diurnal rhythmicity in microglial BV‐2 cells. Real‐time luciferase monitoring also showed diurnal oscillatory luciferase activity in cultured microglia from Per1::Luciferase transgenic mice. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) strongly induced the expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines in BV‐2 cells, whereas an siRNA targeting Brain and muscle aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator‐like protein 1 (Bmal1), a core positive component of the microglial molecular clock, selectively inhibited LPS‐induced interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) expression. In addition, LPS‐induced IL‐6 expression was attenuated in microglia from Bmal1‐deficient mice. This phenotype was recapitulated by pharmacological disruption of oscillatory diurnal rhythmicity using the synthetic Rev‐Erb agonist SR9011. Promoter analysis of the Il6 gene revealed that Bmal1 is required for LPS‐induced IL‐6 expression in microglia. Mice conditionally Bmal1 deficient in cells expressing CD11b, including microglia, exhibited less potent upregulation of Il6 expression following middle cerebral artery occlusion compared with that in control mice, with a significant attenuation of neuronal damage. These results suggest that the intrinsic microglial clock modulates the inflammatory response, including the positive regulation of IL‐6 expression in a particular pathological situation in the brain, GLIA 2016. GLIA 2017;65:198–208
Substituent impact of B, Si, or P main group elements on the photophysical properties of phenyleneethynylenes
Authors: Sanji Takanobu , Fuchigami Akemi , Tanaka Masato
Published: October 2016

The synthesis and photophysical properties of a series of phenyleneethynylenes containing a main group element moiety of B, Si, or P on the side chain as a simple model are reported. The HOMO‐LUMO energy levels are significantly altered due to a rise of the HOMO level (P) or a lowering of the LUMO level (B and PO) compared with the parent phenyleneethynylene, which is also supported by density functional theory calculations. In addition, the optical properties of boron‐ and phosphorus‐containing π systems are dramatically changed by the coordination of fluoride ion and oxidation, respectively.
Does the Timing of Food Stamp Distribution Matter? A Panel‐Data Analysis of Monthly Purchasing Patterns of US Households
Authors: Castellari Elena , Cotti Chad , Gordanier John , Ozturk Orgul
Published: October 2016

In this paper, we examine the relationship between the timing of food stamp receipt and purchasing patterns. We combine data on state distribution dates of food stamps with scanner data on a panel of households purchases tracked between 2004 and 2011. We find that purchases of a variety of goods are meaningfully higher on receipt days, consistent with previous work that suggests that recipients are very impatient. Additionally, and importantly, estimates indicate that when food stamp receipt days fall on weekends, total monthly purchases within the same households are affected. In particular, monthly purchases of beer are higher when food stamps are distributed on a weekend rather than in months where benefits are distributed on weekdays. For these households, total beer purchases are between 4 and 5% higher in those months. Among households ineligible for food stamps, no effect is identified. These results demonstrate that the ‘day‐of‐the‐week’ of SNAP treatment may have important impacts on household purchase habits. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
External Validity of Contingent Valuation: Comparing Hypothetical and Actual Payments
Authors: Ryan Mandy , Mentzakis Emmanouil , Jareinpituk Suthi , Cairns John
Published: October 2016

Whilst contingent valuation is increasingly used in economics to value benefits, questions remain concerning its external validity that is do hypothetical responses match actual responses? We present results from the first within sample field test. Whilst Hypothetical No is always an Actual No, Hypothetical Yes exceed Actual Yes responses. A constant rate of response reversals across bids/prices could suggest theoretically consistent option value responses. Certainty calibrations (verbal and numerical response scales) minimise hypothetical–actual discrepancies offering a useful solution. Helping respondents resolve uncertainty may reduce the discrepancy between hypothetical and actual payments and thus lead to more accurate policy recommendations. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Detection of L265P MYD‐88 mutation in a series of clonal B‐cell lymphocytosis of marginal zone origin (CBL‐MZ)
Authors: Kalpadakis Christina , Pangalis Gerassimos A. , Vassilakopoulos Theodoros P. , Roumelioti Maria , Sachanas Sotirios , Korkolopoulou Penelope , Koulieris Efstathios , Moschogiannis Maria , Yiakoumis Xanthi , Tsirkinidis Pantelis , Pontikoglou Charalampos , Rondoyianni Dimitra , Papadaki Helen A. , Panayiotidis Panayiotidis , Angelopoulou Maria K.
Published: October 2016

Clonal B‐cell lymphocytosis of marginal zone origin (CBL‐MZ) is a recently described entity characterized by the presence of clonal B cells in the blood and/or bone marrow (BM) with morphologic and immunophenotypic features consistent with marginal zone derivation in otherwise healthy individuals. CBL‐MZ is commonly associated with paraproteinemia, usually immunoglobulin M (IgM), raising diagnostic difficulties from Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia (WM). The aim of the present study was to determine the presence of MYD‐88 L265P mutation in a well‐characterized series of CBL‐MZ to identify cases that may in fact represent WM. Fifty‐three CBL‐MZ cases were retrospectively evaluated. MYD‐88 L265P mutation was determined by allele‐specific polymerase chain reaction in blood and/or BM mononuclear cells. Almost half of the CBL‐MZ cases (49%) were associated with paraproteinemia mainly of the IgM type (65%). MYD‐88 L265P mutation was identified in 10 cases (19%). These cases may truly represent WM, whereas 43 cases (81%) are still classified as CBL‐MZ. Mutated cases were all associated with paraproteinemia compared with 37% of the nonmutated ones (P < .0001). In addition, mutated cases displayed more frequently CD38 and CD25 positivity (P = .002 and P = .005, respectively). Moreover, cases without paraproteinemia presented more frequently with lymphocytosis, irrespective of the presence of the MYD‐88 mutation (P = .02). The present study demonstrates that MYD‐88 L265P mutation may represent the only sensitive marker for the differentiation of CBL‐MZ from probable WM. However, further studies are warranted to better define the biological significance of MYD‐88 L265P mutation and to clarify whether the presence of the mutation establishes WM diagnosis or that it can also be present in borderline cases associated with paraproteinemia.
Follicular dendritic cell sarcoma treated with a variety of chemotherapy
Authors: Sasaki Masaoki , Izumi Hiroaki , Yokoyama Takaaki , Kojima Motohiro , Hosono Ako
Published: October 2016

Follicular dendritic cell sarcoma (FDCS) is a very rare malignant tumor derived from follicular dendritic cells. Radical resection is the standard therapy for patients with local disease, but an optimal chemotherapy regimen has not been determined for unresectable disease. We report our experience of an FDCS patient with multiorgan involvement. In the present case, disease was only located in the pancreas initially and radical resection was performed. Multiple metastasis developed after the treatment and several factors that indicated a poor prognosis were observed. The present case had a very poor prognostic disease but survived for a long time with a good performance status because of the multiple chemotherapy regimens, which follow therapeutic strategies for malignant lymphoma and soft tissue sarcoma. As far as we know, this is the first study reporting the indication of bendamustine for FDCS patients.
Enteroviral infection in patients treated with rituximab for non‐Hodgkin lymphoma: a case series and review of the literature
Authors: Grisariu S. , Vaxman I. , Gatt M. , Elias S. , Avni B. , Arad A. , Pasvolsky O. , Raanani P. , Paltiel O.
Published: October 2016

In recent years, anti‐CD20 antibodies have been increasingly used to treat lymphoproliferative and immune disorders. Chronic viral infections are infrequently reported in patients receiving these therapies. Enteroviral infection can cause life‐threatening meningoencephalitis and other systemic chronic syndromes in immune deficient patients. We describe the clinical courses and outcomes of 6 patients from 2 tertiary care institutions who developed chronic enteroviral infection with neurological manifestations, after combined chemoimmunotherapy with rituximab for B‐cell lymphoma. We review the literature that includes 10 sporadic reported cases of chronic enteroviral meningoencephalitis attributed to rituximab therapy. It is a rare disease, and its diagnosis is often elusive. We propose that low immunoglobulin G levels are the main risk factor for developing chronic enteroviral infection and emphasize the need for a high index of suspicion, early diagnosis, and intervention in this iatrogenic and potentially fatal complication.
Distinct and shared three‐dimensional chromosome organization patterns in lymphocytes, monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance and multiple myeloma
Authors: Sathitruangsak Chirawadee , Righolt Christiaan H. , Klewes Ludger , Tung Chang Doris , Kotb Rami , Mai Sabine
Published: October 2016

The consistent appearance of specific chromosomal translocations in multiple myeloma has suggested that the positioning of chromosomes in the interphase nucleus might play a role in the occurrence of particular chromosomal rearrangements associated with malignant transformation. Using fluorescence in situ hybridization, we have determined the positions of selected chromosome pairs (18 and 19, 9 and 22, 4 and 14, 14 and 16, 11 and 14) in interphase nuclei of myeloma cells compared to normal lymphocytes of treatment‐naïve patients. All chromosome pairs were arranged in a nonrandom pattern. Chromosomes commonly involved in myeloma‐associated translocations (4 and 14, 14 and 16, 11 and 14) were found in close spatial proximity, and this is correlated with the occurrence of overlapping chromosome territories. The spatial distribution of chromosomes may increase the possibility of chromosomal translocations in multiple myeloma.
Macro News and Commodity Returns
Authors: Caporale Guglielmo Maria , Spagnolo Fabio , Spagnolo Nicola
Published: October 2016

This paper adopts a vector autoregression‐generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedasticity approach to model the dynamic linkages between both mean and variance of macro news and commodity returns (Gold, Corn, Wheat, Soybeans, Silver, Platinum, Palladium, Copper, Aluminium and Crude Oil) over the period 01/01/2001–26/09/2014. The chosen specification also controls for the effect of the exchange rate. The results can be summarized as follows. Mean spillovers running from news to commodity returns are positive with the exception of Gold and Silver. Volatility spillovers are bigger in size and affect most commodity returns. Both first‐moment and second‐moment linkages are stronger in the post‐September 2008 period. Overall, our findings confirm that commodities, despite not being financial assets, are sensitive to macro news (especially their volatility) and also suggest that the global financial crisis has strengthened such linkages. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effective cancer targeting and imaging using macrophage membrane‐camouflaged upconversion nanoparticles
Authors: Rao Lang , He Zhaobo , Meng Qian‐Fang , Zhou Ziyao , Bu Lin‐Lin , Guo Shi‐Shang , Liu Wei , Zhao Xing‐Zhong
Published: October 2016

Upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs), with fascinating optical and chemical features, are a promising new generation of fluorescent probes. Although UCNPs have been widely used in diagnosis and therapy, there is an unmet need for a simple and effective surface engineering method that can produce cancer‐targeting UCNPs. Here, we show that by coating particles with macrophage membranes, it becomes possible to utilize the adhesion between macrophages and cancer cells for effective cancer targeting. Natural macrophage membranes along with their associated membrane proteins were reconstructed into vesicles and then coated onto synthetic UCNPs. The resulting macrophage membrane‐camouflaged particles (MM‐UCNPs) exhibited effective cancer targeting capability inherited from the source cells and were further used for enhanced in vivo cancer imaging. Finally, the blood biochemistry, hematology testing and histology analysis results suggested a good in vivo biocompatibility of MM‐UCNPs. The combination of synthetic nanoparticles with biomimetic cell membranes embodies a novel design strategy toward developing biocompatible nanoprobes for potential clinical applications. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 521–530, 2017.
Gingival Stromal Cells as an In Vitro Model: Cannabidiol Modulates Genes Linked With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Rajan Thangavelu Soundara , Scionti Domenico , Diomede Francesca , Grassi Gianpaolo , Pollastro Federica , Piattelli Adriano , Cocco Lucio , Bramanti Placido , Mazzon Emanuela , Trubiani Oriana
Published: October 2016

Research in recent years has extensively investigated the therapeutic efficacy of mesenchymal stromal cells in regenerative medicine for many neurodegenerative diseases at preclinical and clinical stages. However, the success rate of stem cell therapy remains less at translational phase. Lack of relevant animal models that potentially simulate the molecular etiology of human pathological symptoms might be a reason behind such poor clinical outcomes associated with stem cell therapy. Apparently, self‐renewal and differentiation ability of mesenchymal stem cells may help to study the early developmental signaling pathways connected with the diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), etc., at in vitro level. Cannabidiol, a non‐psychotrophic cannabinoid, has been demonstrated as a potent anti‐inflammatory and neuroprotective agent in neurological preclinical models. In the present study, we investigated the modulatory role of cannabidiol on genes associated with ALS using human gingiva‐derived mesenchymal stromal cells (hGMSCs) as an in vitro model system. Next generation transcriptomic sequencing analysis demonstrated considerable modifications in the expression of genes connected with ALS pathology, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and excitotoxicity in hGMSCs treated with cannabidiol. Our results suggest the efficacy of cannabidiol to delineate the unknown molecular pathways, which may underlie ALS pathology at an early stage using hGMSCs as a compelling in vitro system. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 819–828, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
On the Stability of Cis‐ and Trans‐2‐Butene Isomers. An Insight Based on the FAMSEC, IQA, and ETS‐NOCV Schemes
Authors: Cukrowski Ignacy , Sagan Filip , Mitoraj Mariusz Paweł
Published: October 2016

In the present account, the real space fragment attributed molecular system energy change (FAMSEC) approach, interacting quantum atoms energy decomposition scheme as well as molecular orbitals based the extended transition state scheme coupled with natural orbitals for chemical valence (ETS‐NOCV) have been, for the first time, successfully used to delineate factors of importance for stability of the 2‐butene conformers (cis‐eq, cis‐TS, trans‐eq, trans‐TS). Our results demonstrate that atoms of the controversial H–H contact in cis‐eq (i) are involved in attractive interaction dominated by the exchange‐correlation term, (ii) are weekly stabilized, (iii) show trends in several descriptors found in other typical H‐bonds, and (iv) are part of most stabilized CH–HC fragment (loc‐FAMSEC = −3.6 kcal/mol) with most favourably changed intrafragment interactions on trans‐eq→cis‐eq. Moreover, lower stability of cis‐eq vs. trans‐eq is linked with the entire HCCH (ethylenic) fragment which destabilized cis‐eq (mol‐FAMSEC, +3.9 kcal/mol) the most. Although the H–H contact can be linked with smaller, relative to trans‐, rotational energy barrier in cis‐2‐butene, we have proven that to rationalize this phenomenon one must account for changes in interactions between various fragments that constitute the entire molecule. Importantly, we discovered a number of comparable trends in fundamental properties of equivalent molecular fragments on a methyl group rotation; for example, interaction between BP‐free H‐atoms in trans‐eq (involving CH bonds of the methyl and ethylenic units) and BP‐linked H‐atoms in cis‐eq. Clearly, rotational energy barrier cannot be entirely (i) rationalized by the properties of or (ii) attributed to the H–H contact in cis‐eq. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The impact of surface area, volume, curvature, and Lennard–Jones potential to solvation modeling
Authors: Nguyen Duc D. , Wei Guo‐Wei
Published: October 2016

This article explores the impact of surface area, volume, curvature, and Lennard–Jones (LJ) potential on solvation free energy predictions. Rigidity surfaces are utilized to generate robust analytical expressions for maximum, minimum, mean, and Gaussian curvatures of solvent–solute interfaces, and define a generalized Poisson–Boltzmann (GPB) equation with a smooth dielectric profile. Extensive correlation analysis is performed to examine the linear dependence of surface area, surface enclosed volume, maximum curvature, minimum curvature, mean curvature, and Gaussian curvature for solvation modeling. It is found that surface area and surfaces enclosed volumes are highly correlated to each other's, and poorly correlated to various curvatures for six test sets of molecules. Different curvatures are weakly correlated to each other for six test sets of molecules, but are strongly correlated to each other within each test set of molecules. Based on correlation analysis, we construct twenty six nontrivial nonpolar solvation models. Our numerical results reveal that the LJ potential plays a vital role in nonpolar solvation modeling, especially for molecules involving strong van der Waals interactions. It is found that curvatures are at least as important as surface area or surface enclosed volume in nonpolar solvation modeling. In conjugation with the GPB model, various curvature‐based nonpolar solvation models are shown to offer some of the best solvation free energy predictions for a wide range of test sets. For example, root mean square errors from a model constituting surface area, volume, mean curvature, and LJ potential are less than 0.42 kcal/mol for all test sets. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mechanistic Chemistry of Extraordinary Capacity of Salvianolic Acid B on Oxidatively‐damaged Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Wang Tingting , Li Xican , Li Yunrong , Wu Jianrun , Huang Yuyin , Wei Gang , Chen Dongfeng
Published: October 2016

As the main bioactive component of Chinese herbal medicine Danshen, salvianolic acid B (Sal B, or lithospermic acid B) was observed to maintain the viability of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) treated by Fenton's reagent in the study. Interestingly, at a higher concentration, Sal B could even increase the viability rate to 175.1%. In mechanistic analysis experiments, Sal B was found to resist DNA destruction by •OH radical, scavenge various radicals in vitro, reduce Cu2+ → Cu+, chelate Fe2+ to yield an absorption maximum at 710 nm. Based on these results, we concluded that, (1) Sal B can not only protect MSCs against •OH‐induced damages, but also promote their proliferation. This extraordinary capacity makes Sal B an ideal candidate in MSCs transplantation especially when MSCs are polluted by iron‐overload or other oxidative stress factors and, can partly be responsible for the versatile properties of Sal B in pharmacology. The possible mechanisms of its protective effect are hypothesized to include Fe2+ chelating, and direct radical scavenging which is involved in electron transfer (ET) or hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) from the catechol moieties. Its proliferation‐promoting effect is presumed to be from its ester group, carboxylic group, or benzofuran ring.
Short‐ and Long‐Term Hindlimb Immobilization and Reloading: Profile of Epigenetic Events in Gastrocnemius
Authors: Chacon‐Cabrera Alba , Gea Joaquim , Barreiro Esther
Published: October 2016

Skeletal muscle dysfunction and atrophy are characteristic features accompanying chronic conditions. Epigenetic events regulate muscle mass and function maintenance. We hypothesized that the pattern of epigenetic events (muscle‐enriched microRNAs and histone acetylation) and acetylation of transcription factors known to signal muscle wasting may differ between early‐ and late‐time points in skeletal muscles of mice exposed to hindlimb immobilization (I) and recovery following I. Body and muscle weights, grip strength, muscle‐enriched microRNAs, histone deacetylases (HDACs), acetylation of proteins, histones, and transcription factors (TF), myogenic TF factors, and muscle phenotype were assessed in gastrocnemius of mice exposed to periods (1, 2, 3, 7, 15, and 30 days, I groups) of hindlimb immobilization, and in those exposed to reloading for different periods of time (1, 3, 7, 15, and 30 days, R groups) following 7‐day immobilization. Compared to non‐immobilized controls, muscle weight, limb strength, microRNAs, especially miR‐486, SIRT1 levels, and slow‐ and fast‐twitch cross‐sectional areas were decreased in mice of I groups, whereas Pax7 and acetylated FoxO1 and FoxO3 levels were increased. Muscle reloading following splint removal improved muscle mass loss, strength, and fiber atrophy, by increasing microRNAs, particularly miR‐486, and SIRT1 content, while decreasing acetylated FoxO1 and FoxO3 levels. In this mouse model of disuse muscle atrophy, muscle‐enriched microRNAs, especially miR‐486, through Pax7 regulation delayed muscle cell differentiation following unloading of gastrocnemius muscle. Acetylation of FoxO1 and 3 seemed to drive muscle mass loss and atrophy, while deacetylation of these factors through SIRT1 would enable the muscle fibers to regenerate. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 1415–1427, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Role of Cardiac Myosin Binding Protein C3 in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy‐Progress and Novel Therapeutic Opportunities
Authors: Mohamed Iman A. , Krishnamoorthy Navaneethakrishnan T. , Nasrallah Gheyath K. , Da'as Sahar I.
Published: October 2016

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a common autosomal dominant genetic cardiovascular disorder marked by genetic and phenotypic heterogeneity. Mutations in the gene encodes the cardiac myosin‐binding protein C, cMYBPC3 is amongst the various sarcomeric genes that are associated with HCM. These mutations produce mutated mRNAs and truncated cMyBP‐C proteins. In this review, we will discuss the implications and molecular mechanisms involved in MYBPC3 different mutations. Further, we will highlight the novel targets that can be developed into potential therapeutics for the treatment of HMC. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 1650–1659, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells Infiltration Downregulates Decidual FAAH Activity in an LPS‐Induced Embryo Resorption Model
Authors: Wolfson Manuel Luis , Aisemberg Julieta , Correa Fernando , Franchi Ana María
Published: October 2016

Maternal infections with gram‐negative bacteria are associated with miscarriage and are one of the most common complications during pregnancy. Previous studies from our group have shown that lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐activated infiltrating peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) into decidual tissue plays an important role in the establishment of a local inflammatory process that results in embryo cytotoxicity and early embryo resorption. Moreover, we have also shown that an increased endocannabinoid tone mediates LPS‐induced deleterious effects during early pregnancy loss. Here, we sought to investigate whether the infiltrating PBMC modulates the decidual endocannabinoid tone and the molecular mechanisms involved. PBMC isolated from 7‐day pregnant mice subjected to different treatments were co‐cultured in a transwell system with decidual tissue from control 7‐day pregnant mice. Decidual fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) activity was measured by radioconvertion, total decidual protein nitration by Western blot (WB), and decidual FAAH nitration by immunoprecipitation followed by WB. We found that co‐culture of PBMC obtained from LPS‐treated mice increased the level of nitration of decidual FAAH, which resulted in a negative modulation of decidual FAAH activity. Interestingly, co‐treatment with progesterone or aminoguanidine prevented this effect. We found that LPS‐treated PBMC release high amounts of nitric oxide (NO) which causes tyrosine nitration of decidual FAAH, diminishing its enzymatic activity. Inactivation of FAAH, the main degrading enzyme of anandamide and similar endocannabinoids, could lead to an increased decidual endocannabinoid tone with embryotoxic effects. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 1441–1447, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Low Shear Stress Attenuates COX‐2 Expression Induced by Resistin in Human Osteoarthritic Chondrocytes
Authors: Su Yu‐Ping , Chen Cheng‐Nan , Chang Hsin‐I , Huang Kuo‐Chin , Cheng Chin‐Chang , Chiu Fang‐Yao , Lee Ko‐Chao , Lo Chun‐Min , Chang Shun‐Fu
Published: October 2016

Low shear stress has been proposed to play a reparative role in modulating cartilage homeostasis. Recently, epidemiological studies have found a positive correlation between the resistin level in serum and synovial fluid and osteoarthritis (OA) severity in patients. However, the effect of moderate shear stress on the catabolic stimulation of resistin in OA chondrocytes remains unclear. Hence, this study was to investigate whether low shear stress could regulate resistin‐induced catabolic cyclooxygenase (COX)‐2 expression in human OA chondrocytes and the underlying mechanism. Human OA chondrocytes and SW1353 chondrosarcoma cells were used in this study. Two modes of low shear stress (2 dyn/cm2), pre‐shear and post‐shear, were applied to the chondrocytes. A specific activator and siRNAs were used to investigate the mechanism of low shear stress‐regulated COX‐2 expression of resistin induction. We found that human OA chondrocytes exposed to different modes of low shear stress elicit an opposite effect on resistin‐induced COX‐2 expression: pre‐shear for a short duration attenuates the resistin effect by inhibiting the transcription factor nuclear factor (NF)‐κB‐p65 subunit and the cAMP response element binding protein; however, post‐shear over a longer duration enhances the resistin effect by activating only the NF‐κB‐p65 subunit. Moreover, our results demonstrated that the regulation of both shear modes in resistin‐stimulated COX‐2 expression occurs through increasing AMP‐activated protein kinase activation and then sirtuin 1 expression. This study elucidates the detailed mechanism of low shear stress regulating the resistin‐induced catabolic COX‐2 expression and indicates a possible reparative role of moderate shear force in resistin‐stimulated OA development. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 1448–1457, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Gluconobacter oxydans (ATCC 621H) catalyzed oxidation of furfural for detoxification of furfural and bioproduction of furoic acid
Authors: Zhou Xuelian , Zhou Xin , Xu Yong , Chen Rachel R
Published: October 2016

BACKGROUND

The bacterial strain Gluconobacter oxydans (ATCC 621H) was investigated for its potential biodetoxification properties through conversion of furfural to 2‐furoic acid (FA). Furfural is a common byproduct of lignocellulose feedstock pretreament processing and it is a putative inhibitor of several important microbial pathways.

RESULTS

Both furfural and furfuryl alcohol exhibit significant substrate inhibition to biooxidation. To overcome this inhibition, a fed‐batch bioprocess was developed to convert furfural and furfuryl alcohol to the low‐toxic FA product. The optimized fed‐batch bioprocess gave FA concentrations exceeding 40 g L−1 with a productivity of 0.167 g L−1 h−1 and a yield of nearly 100%. In order to improve productivity, the whole cell catalysis was carried out in a compressed oxygen supply‐sealed and stirred tank reactor (COS‐SSTR). Similar to the flask studies, 38.18 g L−1 FA was obtained in 24 h.

CONCLUSION

Gluconobacter oxydans was found to oxidize both furfural and furfuryl alcohol to a single product, FA, with a yield close to 100%. Unlike other microorganisms, this strain does not have a metabolic system to further degrade FA, demonstrating its potential to produce this useful product from renewable resources. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Evaluation of reaction parameters and kinetic modelling for Novozym 435 catalysed synthesis of isoamyl butyrate
Authors: Bansode Sneha R , Hardikar Mukta A , Rathod Virendra K
Published: October 2016

BACKGROUND

The work describes the synthesis of isoamyl butyrate, a fruity banana flavour using immobilised lipase [EC 3.1.1.3] as a biocatalyst in a solvent‐free system, under mild optimised reaction conditions. Kinetic modelling with Ping Pong Bi Bi models, and thermodynamic parameters were evaluated at different temperatures.

RESULT

The optimised parameters of temperature, mole ratio and enzyme loading attained 96% maximum conversion of ester in 10 h. Novozym 435 was successively recycled nine times with 33% loss of initial enzyme activity. The kinetic parameters were found as: maximum rate constant (Vmax) = 28.027 mmol min−1 g−1 (of catalyst), rate constant for acid (Ka) = 0.636 mol L−1, rate constant for alcohol (Kb) = 0.657 mol L−1, rate constant for alcohol inhibition (Kib) = 0.022 mol L−1 at optimum conditions by varying initial concentration of acid from 1.5 to 8.3 mol L−1 and concentration of alcohol from 2.12 to 7.9 mol L−1. The possibility of mass transfer resistance was investigated using an effectiveness factor which was determined as 1.

CONCLUSION

From kinetic modelling, the esterification reaction was found to obey the Ping Pong Bi Bi mechanism with substrate inhibition. From thermodynamic evaluation the activation energy (Ea) for reaction, Gibbs free energy change (ΔG), and the enthalpy change (ΔH) was obtained as 16 kJ mol−1, 71 kJ mol−1 and 13 kJ mol−1, respectively. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Porcine models for the study of small‐for‐size syndrome and portal inflow modulation: literature review and proposal for a standardized nomenclature
Authors: Mohkam Kayvan , Darnis Benjamin , Mabrut Jean‐Yves
Published: October 2016

Porcine models of extended hepatectomy and liver transplantation (LT) of reduced graft have been widely used for studying the small‐for‐size (SFS) syndrome and the various modalities of portal inflow modulation (PIM). However, considerable heterogeneity exists among the studies and their results. The aim of this review was to assess the main advantages and drawbacks of the different porcine models of SFS LT and SFS hepatectomy, and propose a standardized anatomical nomenclature for the various models. The MEDLINE database was searched for articles reporting porcine models of reduced graft LT or hepatectomy of more than 65%. Nineteen articles on SFS LT matched our inclusion criteria, including 10 articles reporting a model of PIM. Twenty‐seven articles reporting a model of posthepatectomy SFS were identified, of which 16 reported a model of PIM. Subtotal hepatectomy (i.e. resection of all segments except segment 1) without inflow occlusion, left trisectionectomy with inflow occlusion, and LT of a right lateral section including the caudate lobe in a larger recipient appeared to be the most suitable porcine models for studying the SFS syndrome. All three models were appropriate for assessing the surgical and pharmaceutical PIM modalities, except for those involving the splenic flow.
Mesopancreas is a misnomer: time to correct the nomenclature
Authors: Sharma Dhananjaya , Isaji Shuji
Published: October 2016

Focused pathological attention to tumor invasion of the retroperitoneal resection margin after pancreaticoduodenectomy for cancer of head of the pancreas led to the knowledge of strong tendency of cancer cells to infiltrate into the retropancreatic tissue and to spread along the peripancreatic neural plexuses as the cause of local recurrence. The term ‘mesopancreas’ was coined to describe perineural lymphatic layer located dorsally to the pancreas and it was suggested that its complete resection will minimize loco‐regional recurrence and improve outcome. This catchy title and concept attracted the attention of surgeons and “total meso‐pancreas excision” was introduced by ‘artery first’ or ‘posterior first’ surgical techniques to ensure ‘en‐bloc’ extended resection of retropancreatic lymphatics. However, mesopancreas is a misnomer and cannot be called a ‘true’ mesentery as it does not have a fascial envelope attaching the pancreas to the posterior wall of the abdomen and does not contain ‘all’ its blood vessels and ‘all’ its primary draining lymphatics and lymph nodes. Japan Pancreas Society's description of pancreatic head plexus II is anatomically consistent with ‘mesopancreas’ and it should be renamed as such. This nomenclature clearly illustrates its exact anatomical location and surgical relevance; and stands up to necessary rigorous scientific scrutiny.
Retracted: Effective and Green One‐Pot Multicomponent Synthesis of Novel Derivatives of 4H‐Pyrans in the Presence of Hexamethylenetetramine as Catalyst in Water Medium
Authors: Habibi Maysam , Habibi Azizollah , Hakimi Nasab Saber , Dolati Hadi , Mahdavi Seyedeh Mahbobeh
Published: October 2016

Hexamethylenetetramine (HMTA) catalyzes synthesis of new polyfunctionalized 4H‐pyrans by reaction of aromatic aldehyde, malononitrile, and β‐keto esters via one‐pot three‐component procedure in water medium. Addition of reactants was performed by two methods led to achieve similar results. Using HMTA in catalytic amount not only represents the economic face of the reaction, but also due to the use of water, a green and safe reaction condition is organized. Thus, the current strategy provides the benefits of high productivity, convenient operation, and environmental friendliness. Structure of all products was proved by elemental analysis, IR, 1H‐NMR, and 13C‐NMR spectroscopy.
Synthesis of Cyclic Vicinal Trifluoromethylated Hydroxylamine and Nitrone Based on Perfluorodiacetyl
Authors: Saloutina Lyudmila V. , Tretyakov Evgeny V. , Slepukhin Pavel A. , Saloutin Victor I. , Chupakhin Oleg N.
Published: October 2016

Perfluorodiacetyl (PFDA) demonstrates high‐synthetic potential in reaction with bifunctional nucleophilic reagents. Therefore, PFDA is a useful reagent in the synthesis of CF3‐substituted heterocycles. In this work, we explored the reaction of PFDA with a sterically hindered bis‐hydroxylamine, isolated the products and clarified their structures. It was found that the reaction initially gave the 5,5,6,6‐tetramethyl‐2,3‐bis(trifluoromethyl)pyperazine‐1,2,3,4‐tetraol heterocycle with a unique set of functional groups. This tetraol was shown to easily undergo dehydration with formation of the first cyclic α‐CF3‐substituted nitrone.
Brain capillary transit time heterogeneity in healthy volunteers measured by dynamic contrast‐enhanced T1‐weighted perfusion MRI
Authors: Larsson Henrik B.W. , Vestergaard Mark B. , Lindberg Ulrich , Iversen Helle K. , Cramer Stig P.
Published: October 2016

Purpose

Capillary transit time heterogeneity, measured as CTH, may set the upper limit for extraction of substances in brain tissue, e.g., oxygen. The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility of dynamic contrast‐enhanced T1 weighted MRI (DCE‐MRI) at 3 Tesla (T), in estimating CTH based on a gamma‐variate model of the capillary transit time distribution. In addition, we wanted to investigate if a subtle increase of the blood–brain barrier permeability can be incorporated into the model, still allowing estimation of CTH.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐three healthy subjects were scanned at 3.0T MRI system applying DCE‐MRI and using a gamma‐variate model to estimate CTH as well as cerebral blood flow (CBF), cerebral blood volume (CBV), and permeability of the blood–brain barrier, measured as the influx constant Ki. For proof of principle we also investigated three patients with recent thromboembolic events and a patient with a high grade brain tumor.

Results

In the healthy subjects, we found a narrow symmetric delta‐like capillary transit time distribution in basal ganglia gray matter with median CTH of 0.93 s and interquartile range of 1.33 s. The corresponding residue impulse response function was compatible with the adiabatic tissue homogeneity model. In two patients with complete occlusion of the internal carotid artery and in the patient with a brain tumor CTH was increased with values up to 6 s in the affected brain tissue, with an exponential like residue impulse response function.

Conclusion

Our results open the possibility of characterizing brain perfusion by the capillary transit time distribution using DCE‐MRI, theoretically a determinant of efficient blood to brain transport of important substances.

Level of Evidence: 2

J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2017;45:1809–1820
MRI assessment of pathological stage and surgical margins in anterior prostate cancer (APC) using subjective and quantitative analysis
Authors: Schieda Nicola , Lim Christopher S. , Idris Muhammad , Lim Robert S. , Morash Christopher , Breau Rodney H. , Flood Trevor A. , McInnes Matthew D.F.
Published: October 2016

Purpose

To evaluate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for assessment of extraprostatic extension (EPE) and positive surgical margins (PSM) in anterior prostate cancer (APC).

Materials and Methods

With Institutional Review Board approval, 25 APC (>2/3 of tumor anterior to urethra) were assessed using 3T MRI by two blinded radiologists for: size and maximal leading edge of tumor (relative to anterior fibromuscular stroma [AFMS]) on b ≥1000 sec/mm2 echo‐planar‐MRI fused onto T2‐weighted‐MRI, invasion of AFMS and EPE. Comparisons were performed between APCs by EPE/PSM using chi‐square, multivariable analysis, and receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis.

Results

The prevalence of EPE and PSM were 52% (13/25) and 36% (9/25). Tumor sizes were larger with EPE (22.5 ± 8.4 vs. 14.7 ± 6.3, P = 0.02) and PSM (23.0 ± 9.3 vs. 16.4 ± 7.0, P = 0.06). Area under ROC curve (AUC‐ROC) for the diagnosis of EPE by tumor size was 0.77 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.58–0.95); ≥16 mm size = sensitivity/specificity 69.2/66.7%. Maximal leading edge of tumor was greater with EPE (2.4 ± 2.2 vs. –0.2 ± 3.0) and PSM (2.8 ± 2.3 vs. –0.3 ± 2.5), (P = 0.023, 0.031). AUC‐ROC for diagnosis of EPE/PSM by leading edge was 0.78 (CI 0.57–0.97) and 0.75 (CI 0.56–0.94). A ≥1 mm leading edge yielded sensitivity/specificity of 76.9/75.0% and 77.8/62.5% for diagnosis of EPE/PSM. 60–72% (15–18/25) tumors invaded AFMS (k = 0.74), which was not associated with EPE/PSM (P = 0.12–0.14). Radiologists' assessment of EPE had sensitivity/specificity of 61.5–69.2/50.0–75.0% (k = 0.53).

Conclusion

Tumor size and leading edge of tumor relative to AFMS may enable diagnosis of EPE and positive surgical margins in APC.

Level of Evidence: 2

J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2017;45:1296–1303
Fusaricidins from Paenibacillus polymyxa M‐1, a family of lipohexapeptides of unusual complexity—a mass spectrometric study
Authors: Vater Joachim , Herfort Stefanie , Doellinger Joerg , Weydmann Max , Dietel Kristin , Faetke Sebastian , Lasch Peter
Published: October 2016

Paenibacillus polymyxa are rhizobacteria with a high potential to produce natural compounds of biotechnological and medical interest. Main products of P. polymyxa are fusaricidins, a large family of antifungal lipopeptides with a 15‐guanidino‐3‐hydroxypentadecanoic acid (GHPD) as fatty acid side chain. We use the P. polymyxa strain M‐1 as a model organism for the exploration of the biosynthetic potential of these rhizobacteria. Using matrix‐assisted laser‐desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS) about 40 new fusaricidins were detected which were fractionated by reversed‐phase (rp) HPLC. Their structure was determined by MALDI‐LIFT‐TOF/TOF fragment analysis. The dominant fragment in the product ion spectra of fusaricidins appeared at m/z 256.3, 284.3 and 312.4, respectively, indicating variations in their fatty acid part. Two new subfamilies of fusaricidins were introduced which contain guanidino‐3‐hydroxyhepta‐ and nonadecanoic acid as fatty acid constituents. Apparently, the end‐standing guanidine group is not modified as shown by direct infusion nano‐electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (nano‐ESI MS). The results of this study suggest that advanced mass spectrometry is the method of choice for investigating natural compounds of unusual diversity, like fusaricidins. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Brain Diffusivity and Structural Changes in the R6/2 Mouse Model of Huntington Disease
Authors: Vorisek Ivan , Syka Michael , Vargova Lydia
Published: October 2016

Diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance (DW‐MR) is an important diagnostic tool in Huntington disease (HD), a fatal hereditary neurodegenerative disorder. To clarify the nature of diffusivity changes in HD, we compared the apparent diffusion coefficient of water (ADCW) acquired by DW‐MR with extracellular space volume fraction α and tortuosity λ, measured by the iontophoretic method in the R6/2 mouse model of HD and in wild‐type controls (WT). In anisotropic globus pallidus (GP), diffusion measurements were performed in the mediolateral (x), rostrocaudal (y), and ventrodorsal (z) axes. In HD animals, we detected an increase in ADCW in all axes and larger α than in WT mice. No significant difference between WT and HD mice was found in the values of tortuosity (λx, λy, λz). Despite structural changes in GP, diffusion anisotropy was unaffected in HD mice. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed in HD mice weaker expression of extracellular matrix and a decrease in neuron numbers compared with WT mice. Glial fibrillary acidic protein staining detected astrogliosis‐like changes in the morphology of astrocytic processes in HD GP. In the somatosensory cortex, no significant differences in the studied parameters were found. We conclude that in the R6/2 model of HD, a decrease in the number of neurons in the GP results in increased ADCW and α values. Values of λ were not significantly changed as the increase of diffusion obstacles formed by reactive astrocytes was compensated for by the extracellular matrix reduction. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The effect of change in supervisor support and job control on change in vigor: Differential relationships for immigrant and native employees in Israel
Authors: Hoppe Annekatrin , Toker Sharon , Schachler Vivian , Ziegler Matthias
Published: October 2016

Building on the premises of the conservation of resources theory, the aim of this study was to investigate long‐term effects of job resources on vigor among native and immigrant employees in Israel. More specifically, we investigated the effects of baseline and change in job control and supervisor support on change in vigor levels, as well as the degree to which these effects differ among educated native and immigrant employees in Israel. We surveyed 235 white‐collar Eastern European and Russian immigrants and 235 white‐collar native Israelis matched on occupational and demographic characteristics at two points of measurement with a 30‐month time lag. Latent change score modeling revealed that among both immigrants and natives, change in job control was related to change in vigor. Multiple group analyses further revealed that among immigrant employees only, baseline levels of supervisor support were associated with change in vigor. In conclusion, these findings suggest that the utilization of resources as a means of acquiring new resources may be influenced by immigrant background. Managerial implications are discussed. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.