bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time perspective as a predictor of acute postsurgical pain and coping with pain following abdominal surgery
Authors: Sobol‐Kwapinska M. , Plotek W. , Bąbel P. , Cybulski M. , Kluzik A. , Krystianc J. , Mandecki M.
Published: October 2016

Background

The aim of this study was to predict acute postsurgical pain and coping with pain following surgery based on preoperative time perspectives. Time perspective is a basic dimension of psychological time. It is a tendency to focus on a particular time area: the past, the present and the future.

Method

Seventy‐six patients completed measures of time perspective and pain 24 h before abdominal surgery. During the 3 days after surgery, measures of pain and coping with pain were completed.

Results

We performed hierarchical regression analyses to identify predictors of acute postsurgical pain and how patients cope with it. These analyses suggested that a preoperative past‐negative time perspective can be a predictor of postoperative pain level and catastrophizing after surgery.

Conclusion

The findings of our study indicate the importance of time perspective, especially the past perspective, in dealing with postoperative pain.

Significance

Our research indicates that a preoperative past‐negative time perspective is a significant predictor of acute postsurgical pain intensity and the strongest predictor of pain catastrophizing.
A Cantilever‐based Biosensor for Real‐time Monitoring of Interactions between Amyloid‐β(1–40) and Membranes Comprised of Phosphatidylcholine Lipids with Different Hydrophobic Acyl Chains
Authors: Zhang Ziyang , Murakami Yuki , Taniguchi Tomoya , Sohgawa Masayuki , Yamashita Kaoru , Noda Minoru
Published: October 2016

Accumulating evidence suggests that interaction between amyloid‐β (Aβ) and cell membrane is crucial to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD), and thus an increasing understanding of the impact of membrane composition on Aβ‐membrane interaction becomes essential for the mechanism elucidation of Aβ‐membrane interaction and the early diagnosis of AD. In this work, electrically neutral phosphatidylcholine (PC) as the most major class of membrane phospholipids, including 1,2‐dipalmitoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphocholine (DPPC), 1,2‐distearoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphocholine (DSPC), 1‐palmitoyl‐2‐oleoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphocholine (POPC), and Aβ(1–40) as the most common amyloid protein were selected as the research subjects, and a developed cantilever‐based biosensor, on which liposomes comprised of PC lipids were immobilized, was applied to characterize in real time the interactions between Aβ(1–40) and membranes comprised of PC lipids with different hydrophobic acyl chains, and to evaluate the effect of cholesterol incorporated in membrane on Aβ‐membrane interaction during the whole process of Aβ(1–40) fibrillization. The results illustrate that the interaction between Aβ(1–40) and PC membrane can be divided into three stages, which are related to the change in molecular states of Aβ. More importantly, it is found that membranes comprised of PC lipids with shorter saturated acyl chains show higher interaction ability with Aβ(1–40), and the incorporation of cholesterol into PC bilayer can remarkably accelerate and strengthen Aβ(1–40)‐membrane interaction. These results confirm that hydrophobicity is the main driving force for the interactions between Aβ(1–40) and PC membranes. In return, the above results enlightened us to apply the current micro‐cantilever immobilized with cholesterol‐containing DPPC liposomes to challenge the detection of low‐concentration Aβ(1–40). This time 50‐nM Aβ(1–40) in aqueous solution has been effectively detected, suggesting that this proposed detection technique would contribute to Aβ detection and early diagnosis of AD in the future.
Rapid and Easy Detection of Deoxynivalenol on a Bismuth Oxide Screen‐printed Electrode
Authors: María‐Hormigos Roberto , Gismera María Jesús , Sevilla María Teresa , Rumbero Ángel , Procopio Jesús R.
Published: October 2016

In this work we propose a rapid method for deoxynivalenol (DON) detection based on the differential pulse voltammetric (DPV) response of this mycotoxin on a bismuth oxide modified screen‐printed electrode (SPE). In alkaline media the reduction peak of Bi2O3 is modified and an additional peak at a more negative potential is observed due to the DON presence in solution. The experimental conditions and DPV instrumental parameters have been optimized in order to get adequate responses for DON analysis on the BiOx‐SPE devices. The best results are obtained in 0.10 mol L−1 KOH using a 60 mV s−1 scan rate and 40 mV pulse amplitude. The ratio of the DON peak current to the Bi(III) reduction peak current is used for quantification purposes of this mycotoxin. Two linear response ranges (r values >0.99) with a sensitivity of 0.0019 L μg−1 (5.5×105 L mol−1) in the lower concentration range have been obtained at these measurement conditions. The reproducibility of the method is adequate, with RSD values lower than 10 % using different SPE devices for each measurement. The LOD and LOQ values (7.1 μg L−1, 2.4×10−8 mol L−1 and 24 μg L−1, 8.1×10−8 mol L−1 respectively) permit to determine DON with adequate precision and accuracy at low concentration levels. These good analytical features and the disposable and economical devices and the portable and simple instrumentation used for the measurements could make possible the implementation of this methodology for the in‐situ determination of DON.
CE–MS for metabolomics: Developments and applications in the period 2014–2016
Authors: Ramautar Rawi , Somsen Govert W. , de Jong Gerhardus J.
Published: October 2016

CE–MS can be considered a useful analytical technique for the global profiling of (highly) polar and charged metabolites in various samples. Over the past few years, significant advancements have been made in CE–MS approaches for metabolomics studies. In this paper, which is a follow‐up of a previous review paper covering the years 2012–2014 (Electrophoresis 2015, 36, 212–224), recent CE–MS strategies developed for metabolomics covering the literature from July 2014 to June 2016 are outlined. Attention will be paid to new CE–MS approaches for the profiling of anionic metabolites and the potential of SPE coupled to CE–MS is also demonstrated. Representative examples illustrate the applicability of CE–MS in the fields of biomedical, clinical, microbial, plant, and food metabolomics. A complete overview of recent CE–MS‐based metabolomics studies is given in a table, which provides information on sample type and pretreatment, capillary coatings, and MS detection mode. Finally, general conclusions and perspectives are given.
Hybrid microfluidics combined with active and passive approaches for continuous cell separation
Authors: Yan Sheng , Zhang Jun , Yuan Dan , Li Weihua
Published: October 2016

Microfluidics, which is classified as either active or passive, is capable of separating cells of interest from a complex and heterogeneous sample. Active methods utilise external fields such as electric, magnetic, acoustic, and optical to drive cells for separation, while passive methods utilise channel structures, intrinsic hydrodynamic forces, and steric hindrances to manipulate cells. However, when processing complex biological samples such as whole blood with rare cells, separation with a single module microfluidic device is difficult. Hybrid microfluidics is an emerging technique, which utilises active and passive methods whilst fulfilling higher requirements for stable performance, versatility, and convenience, including (i) the ability to process multi‐target cells, (ii) enhanced ability for multiplexed separation, (iii) higher sensitivity, and (iv) tunability for a wider operational range. This review introduces the fundamental physics and typical formats for subclasses of hybrid microfluidic devices based on their different physical fields; presents current examples of cell sorting to highlight the advantage and usefulness of hybrid microfluidics on biomedicine, and then discusses the challenges and perspective of future development and the promising direction of research in this field.
Liquid‐phase based separation systems for depletion, prefractionation, and enrichment of proteins in biological fluids and matrices for in‐depth proteomics analysis—An update covering the period 2014–2016
Authors: El Rassi Ziad , Puangpila Chanida
Published: October 2016

This review article is an update of our previous one by C. Puangpila, E. Mayadunne, and Z. El Rassi, Electrophoresis 2015, 36, 238–252. Similarly to the previous article, this review has two main topics, including (i) proteomic sample preparation (e.g., depletion of high‐abundance proteins, reduction of the protein dynamic concentration range, and enrichment of a particular subproteome), and (ii) the subsequent chromatographic and/or electrophoretic prefractionation prior to protein separation and identification by LC–MS/MS. More than 70 papers published in the period extending from mid‐2014 to the present have been reviewed. Although an effort was made to yield a comprehensive review article, one may safely state that this review article is by no means thorough, and the aim was to rather provide a concise description of the latest developments in the field.
Solvothermal Synthesis of a Molybdenum Disulfide/Reduced Porous Graphene Oxide Nanocomposite as a High‐Performance Anode Material for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Bae Youngkuk , Seong Chae‐Yong , Yoo Suyeon , Park Seung‐Keun , Piao Yuanzhe
Published: October 2016

Although molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) has a higher theoretical capacity than graphite as an anode material for lithium‐ion batteries, its intrinsically poor electrical and ionic conductivity decrease its rate properties and lithium‐storage capacity. In this work, we prepared a MoS2/reduced porous graphene oxide (rPGO) composite by the solvothermal method to complement the conductivity and to improve the lithium‐storage properties of MoS2. PGO was synthesized by a convenient, low‐costing, and mass‐producible nitric acid treatment method. Owing to its large surface area and porous structure, the MoS2/rPGO sample exhibited improved capacity and cyclic stability over other MoS2/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and MoS2 nanoparticle samples. After 100 cycles, the MoS2/rPGO electrode showed an improved capacity of 932 mAh g−1, whereas the capacity of the MoS2/rGO electrode was 395 mAh g−1 at a current density of 200 mA g−1.
Improvement of Lithium‐Ion Battery Performance by Two‐Layered Slot–Die Coating Operation
Authors: Liu Darjen , Chen Li‐Chun , Liu Ta‐Jo , Chu Wen‐Bing , Tiu Carlos
Published: October 2016

The cathode and anode electrodes in lithium‐ion batteries typically contain a significant proportion of particles and binders. During the electrode drying process, high temperature will lead to the binder migration phenomenon. Uneven particle/binder distribution can cause poor adhesion between coating and substrate, disruption of conductive paths, and decrease in electrode performance. In this study, a two‐layered cathode was designed by using separate compositions of slurry ingredients in each layer, as produced by means of a simultaneous multilayer coating method. The two‐layered cathode with the top layer containing less binder than the bottom layer yielded a better particle/binder distribution in the final structure under high‐temperature drying. A battery made with the two‐layered cathode appeared to give a better overall performance.
Effectiveness of Solar Photo‐Fenton Process for Simultaneous Detoxification of Heavy Metals and Disinfection in Municipal Wastewater by Using Response Surface Method
Authors: Barwal Anjali , Chaudhary Rubina
Published: October 2016

The goal of this paper was to evaluate the effectiveness of solar photo‐Fenton (Fe2+/H2O2/UV–vis) treatment that is able to degrade heavy metal contents (Cu, Cd, Cr, Fe, Ni, Pb and Zn) and pathogenic microbial population (Fecal Coliform/100 mL) present in municipal wastewater with minimal iron and H2O2 concentrations. Photo‐Fenton experiments were performed in a solar parabolic trough reactor (PTR). Three level factorial design and response surface method (RSM) was used for characterization and optimization of the process in which a response of interest is influenced by four key variables (pH, solar exposure time, catalyst dose (Fe2+/Fe3+), and amount of oxidant (H2O2)). The performance of advanced oxidant process was investigated in terms of percentage degradation of heavy metals and Fecal Coliform (FC) bacteria present in municipal wastewater. The result shows that variables have significant effect on the degradation process of municipal wastewater. Photocatalytic degradation efficiency was found to be dependent on optimized catalyst dose (Fe2+ 100 mg/L) and amount of oxidant (H2O2 500 mg/L). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) exhibited a high coefficient (R2 = 0.72–0.89), thereby indicating a satisfactory fit between the experimental results. The statistical model of solar photo‐Fenton has shown excellent performance. Excessive hydrogen peroxide and iron have shown scavenging effects on hydroxyl radicals and reduced degradation of micro‐pollutants present in wastewater. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 448–459, 2017
Distributions of organic compounds to the products from hydrothermal liquefaction of microalgae
Authors: Chen Yu , Zhao Nannan , Wu Yulong , Wu Kejing , Wu Xiuyun , Liu Ji , Yang Mingde
Published: October 2016

In this study, the analysis of organic compounds in the products obtained from hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) of microalgae (Dunaliella tertiolecta) was carried out, with particular attention on the identification of compounds in aqueous phases via the integration of two pre‐treatment methods namely dried aqueous extracts (DAE) and solid‐phase micro‐extraction (SPME) along with GC‐MS analysis. The results showed that the strong polar compounds in aqueous phases, such as carboxylic acids, alcohols, amides, glycerol, and N‐containing compounds were determined through DAE method. The weak polar compounds like phenols, cyclic hydrocarbons, and indoles were identified via SPME method. In addition, CO2 and CO are the main components of the gaseous phase products, the rest of components include CH4, N2, H2, C2H4, C2H6, etc. Bio‐oil is mainly composed of ketones, phenols, alcohols, hydrocarbons and N‐containing compounds. Based on the compounds in the bio‐oil, aqueous and gaseous phases compared with the other previous published works, the plausible pathways of Dunaliella tertiolecta HTL are proposed. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 259–268, 2017
Passive dosing of triclosan in multigeneration tests with copepods – stable exposure concentrations and effects at the low μg/L range
Authors: Ribbenstedt Anton , Mustajärvi Lukas , Breitholtz Magnus , Gorokhova Elena , Mayer Philipp , Sobek Anna
Published: October 2016

Ecotoxicity testing is a crucial component of chemical risk assessment. Still, due to methodological difficulties related to controlling exposure concentrations over time, data on long-term effects of organic chemicals at low concentrations are limited. The aim of the present study was, therefore, to test the applicability of passive dosing to maintain stable concentrations of the organochlorine bacteriocide triclosan in the water phase during a 6-wk multigeneration population development test with the harpacticoid copepod Nitocra spinipes. Triclosan was loaded into silicone (1000 mg), which was used as passive dosing phase in the exposure vials. The distribution ratio for triclosan between silicone and water (Dsilicone-water) was 10466 ± 1927. A population development test was conducted at 3 concentration levels of triclosan that were measured to be 3 μg/L to 5 μg/L, 7 μg/L to 11 μg/L and 16 μg/L to 26 μg/L. The results demonstrate that passive dosing is applicable for long-term ecotoxicity testing of organic chemicals, including during significant growth of the test organism population. Shifts in the demographic structure of the population during exposure suggest the most severe effects were exerted on juvenile development. Progressively lower development index values in the populations exposed to increasing triclosan concentrations suggest developmental retardation. The results further stress the need for chronic exposure during ecotoxicity testing in chemical risk assessment because even the most sensitive endpoint was not significant until after 7 d of exposure. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:1254–1260. © 2016 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of SETAC.
School egress data: comparing the configuration and validation of five egress modelling tools
Authors: Cuesta Arturo , Ronchi Enrico , Gwynne Steven M. V. , Kinsey Michael J. , Hunt Aoife L. E. , Alvear Daniel
Published: October 2016

Data were collected between 2011 and 2014 from five evacuations involving the same school buildings located in Spain. Children from 6 to 16 years of age were observed during the evacuation exercises. Background information was collected on key factors deemed to influence evacuation performance: a description of the geometry, the population involved, the procedures employed and the organization of the drills conducted. Using live observations and video footage of these drills, evacuation data were collected, focusing on the pre‐evacuation times, the routes employed, the travel speeds adopted and the arrival times. These data informed a range of a posteriori simulations, conducted by using four computer models (buildingEXODUS, MassMotion, Pathfinder and STEPS) and the Society of Fire Protection Engineering hydraulic model (i.e. Society of Fire Protection Engineering hand calculations). Comparisons were drawn between the models' output and against the observed outcome for one of the trials to determine the accuracy of the model predictions given that they were configured by using the initial conditions for a specific evacuation. The purpose of this work is to (1) provide insight into the configuration of these models for equivalent scenarios, (2) examine any variation in the simulated conditions given equivalent initial conditions, and (3) provide suggestions on how to perform validation studies for multiple evacuation models. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Is it possible to assess the allergenicity of mixtures based on in chemico methods? Preliminary results on common fragrance aldehydes
Authors: Lang Matthieu , Giménez‐Arnau Elena , Lepoittevin Jean‐Pierre
Published: October 2016

Most perfume compositions and cosmetics contain mixtures of fragrance ingredients, synthetic or extracted from natural sources. Many of these are known to be weak or moderate allergens when tested individually. However, fragrances are one of the most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis to consumer products, ranking second after nickel. As consumers are exposed to mixtures of ingredients when using products that contain perfume, it was suggested that mixtures could enhance induction and elicitation of skin allergy to fragrances. Prediction of skin sensitization to chemicals is crucial for the cosmetics industry. Nowadays, methods to assess skin sensitization hazard replacing the use of animals have been developed and validated for the testing of pure substances. However, there is practically no experience with testing of mixtures. Here we evaluated in a very preliminary approach, and from a chemical reactivity perspective, if the validated DPRA, hapten‐peptide reactivity based assay, could be used at a first sight to evaluate the chemical reactivity of mixtures. Two simple binary combinations of fragrance aldehydes were studied, hydroxycitronellal‐citral and citral‐cinnamaldehyde. Their reactivity towards DPRA peptides was compared with that of the single constituents. In general, the chemical described as the most potent sensitizer was driving the reactivity in the mixtures. Therefore, it could be hypothesized that the DPRA would estimate the mixture chemical reactivity similar to that of the stronger sensitizer component. This will be reinforced by conditions described for the DPRA where the tested chemical or mixture of chemicals will be added in large excess to the peptides. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Literature review and meta‐analysis of risk factors for delayed post‐traumatic stress disorder in older adults after a fall
Authors: Bloch Frédéric
Published: October 2016

Objective

To test the hypothesis that post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can appear after a fall and try to identify predictive factors for its development in older fallers.

Methods

Systematic literature review and meta‐analyses of studies on PTSD post fall in older subjects.

Results

One hundred seventy‐seven indexed articles were identified, of which three had complete data on PTSD post fall in older subjects. Only the odds ratio of the association between history of fall and occurrence of PTSD was significant (odds ratio = 2.79 (95% CI, 1.03–7.53).

Conclusion

The trend in our results, even though limited, reveals two groups of subjects: frail subjects that are at risk of developing PTSD and subjects who seem to be resistant to its development. A clear description of these two groups may help us identify the population at risk for delayed PTSD who could then benefit from dedicated treatment. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Costs of Exhibiting Organizational Citizenship Behavior
Authors: Deery Stephen , Rayton Bruce , Walsh Janet , Kinnie Nicholas
Published: October 2016

Organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) has been associated with positive organizational outcomes and with higher managerial ratings of employee performance. However, concerns have been raised about the possible personal costs of performing such activities. This paper examines the relationship between OCB and emotional exhaustion and work‐family conflict and explores the moderating role of job performance in shaping those relationships. In a time‐lagged field study of customer‐contact center employees the research found that one particular dimension of OCB—conscientiousness—was associated with higher emotional exhaustion and with work‐family conflict. The study also revealed that conscientious employees who performed their in‐role job responsibilities at a high level experienced greater emotional exhaustion and work‐family conflict than conscientious employees who performed their in‐role job responsibilities at a low level. Our findings suggest that organizational pressures to increase the level at which both discretionary and formal role obligations are performed can carry negative consequences for employees. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cancer incidence and cancer control in Mongolia: Results from the National Cancer Registry 2008–12
Authors: Chimed Tuvshinjargal , Sandagdorj Tuvshingerel , Znaor Ariana , Laversanne Mathieu , Tseveen Badamsuren , Genden Purevsuren , Bray Freddie
Published: October 2016

Mongolia has a high burden from noncommunicable diseases, with cancer now the second leading cause of mortality. Given the paucity of situation analyses from the country, this study reports cancer data based on new cases 2008–12 from the National Cancer Registry of Mongolia covering the entire population (2.87 million). New cancer cases of 21,564 were diagnosed over the 5‐year period, with a slight predominance of cases (52%) in men. Liver cancer was the leading cancer site in both sexes (ASRs of 114.7 and 74.6 per 100,000 males and females), and responsible for almost two‐fifths of all cancer diagnoses, followed by cancers of stomach, lung and oesophagus in men and cervix, stomach and oesophagus in women. The cumulative risk of incidence for all cancers (27.7% and 20.8% in men and women, respectively) positions Mongolia above China (20.2% and 13.3%), below the United States (34.1% and 28.5%) and similar to Russia (26.1% and 19.1%). These figures shed light on the considerable magnitude of cancer in the country and the large fraction of cancers that can be prevented by lifestyle modifications and vaccine implementation. An expansion of activities of the cancer registry and the continued development of research are necessary steps in support of national cancer control planning in Mongolia.
Euro Effect on Trade in Final, Intermediate and Capital Goods
Authors: Martínez‐Zarzoso Inmaculada , Johannsen Florian
Published: October 2016

The aim of this paper is to provide fresh evidence on the effect of the adoption of the euro on exports of different types of goods. The novelty with respect to previous research is threefold. First, disaggregated trade data are used to allow for heterogeneous effects for final intermediate and capital goods. Second, we distinguish between the euro effect on the extensive and the intensive margins of trade. Finally, we estimate the impact of the Euro adoption controlling for exchange rate volatility, exchange rate movements and EU membership. This allows us to disentangle the effect of a common currency beyond the elimination of trade barriers and of any variation in the exchange rate. The main results indicate that the impact of the Euro on trade values (intensive margin) is around 9% for intermediates, 7% for final goods and it is negative for capital goods. Interestingly, the Euro effects on the extensive margin of trade are found to be negative and significant for the three types of goods, pointing to increasing specialization. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Active tuberculosis detection by pouched rats in 2014: More than 2,000 new patients found in two countries
Authors: Poling Alan , Valverde Emilio , Beyene Negussie , Mulder Christiaan , Cox Christophe , Mgode Georgies , Edwards Timothy L.
Published: October 2016

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major problem in poor countries because sensitive diagnostic tools are unavailable. In 2014, our pouched rats evaluated sputum from 21,600 Tanzanians and 9,048 Mozambicans whose sputum had previously been evaluated by microscopy, the standard diagnostic for TB. Evaluation by the rats revealed 1,412 new patients with active TB in Tanzania and 645 new patients in Mozambique, increases of 39% and 53%, respectively, when compared to detections by microscopy alone. These results provide further support for the applied use of scent‐detecting rats.
Biological factor related to Asian sand dust particles contributes to the exacerbation of asthma
Authors: Honda Akiko , Sawahara Takahiro , Hayashi Tomohiro , Tsuji Kenshi , Fukushima Wataru , Oishi Mizuki , Kitamura Gaku , Kudo Hitomi , Ito Sho , Yoshida Seiichi , Ichinose Takamichi , Ueda Kayo , Takano Hirohisa
Published: October 2016

Abstract

Epidemiologic studies have revealed that Asian sand dust particles (ASDs) can affect respiratory and immune health represented by asthma. Factors responsible for the exacerbation of asthma remain unclear. The fungus Bjerkandera adusta (B.ad) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons such as benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) have been identified in ASDs collected from the atmosphere when an ASD event occurred. We investigated the effects of B.ad and BaP related to ASDs on respiratory and immune systems. Bone marrow‐derived antigen‐presenting cells (APCs) and splenocytes from atopic prone NC/Nga mice and human airway epithelial cells were exposed to the B.ad or to BaP in the presence and absence of heated‐ASDs (H‐ASDs). B.ad and BaP in both the presence and absence of H‐ASDs increased the expression of cell surface molecules on APCs. H‐ASDs alone slightly activated APCs. The expressions induced by B.ad were higher than those induced by BaP in the presence and absence of H‐ASDs. There were no remarkable effects on the activation of splenocytes or the proinflammatory responses in airway epithelial cells. These results suggest that B.ad rather than BaP contributes to the exacerbation of asthma regardless of the presence or absence of sand particles, particularly by the activation of the immune system via APCs. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Raman spectroscopic identification of Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Stöckel Stephan , Meisel Susann , Lorenz Björn , Kloß Sandra , Henk Sandra , Dees Stefan , Richter Elvira , Andres Sönke , Merker Matthias , Labugger Ines , Rösch Petra , Popp Jürgen
Published: October 2016

In this study, Raman microspectroscopy has been utilized to identify mycobacteria to the species level. Because of the slow growth of mycobacteria, the per se cultivation‐independent Raman microspectroscopy emerges as a perfect tool for a rapid on‐the‐spot mycobacterial diagnostic test. Special focus was laid upon the identification of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTC) strains, as the main causative agent of pulmonary tuberculosis worldwide, and the differentiation between pathogenic and commensal nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM). Overall the proposed model considers 26 different mycobacteria species as well as antibiotic susceptible and resistant strains. More than 8800 Raman spectra of single bacterial cells constituted a spectral library, which was the foundation for a two‐level classification system including three support vector machines. Our model allowed the discrimination of MTC samples in an independent validation dataset with an accuracy of 94% and could serve as a basis to further improve Raman microscopy as a first‐line diagnostic point‐of‐care tool for the confirmation of tuberculosis disease.

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Low‐power laser irradiation in salivary glands reduces glycemia in streptozotocin‐induced diabetic female rats
Authors: Fukuoka Cíntia Yuki , Torres Schröter Gabriella , Nicolau José , Simões Alyne
Published: October 2016

Low‐power laser irradiation (LPLI) has been extensively employed to modulate inflammation in vitro and in vivo. Previous reports from our group indicated that LPLI might regulate glycemia in diabetic animals. Diabetes results in chronic hyperglycemia and therefore chronic inflammation by upregulation of inflammatory markers such as the high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) protein. Thus this study aimed to analyze the LPLI effects upon blood glucose levels, plasma insulin and HMGB1 concentrations in a diabetes experimental rat model. Streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats were irradiated in the salivary glands area with a diode laser applied at 660 nm, 70 mW, 20 J/cm2, 22.4 J, with a spot area of 0.028 cm2 and its effects were evaluated. LPLI significantly reduced diabetic rat hyperglycemia, without changing insulin or HMGB1 plasma levels, but possibly by ameliorating the insulin resistance in these animals. These findings suggest that LPLI might have a systemic effect, but more studies are necessary to better understand its mechanisms.

Fasting blood glucose measured by peroxidase‐glucose oxidase (PGO) method (A), showing a reduction of diabetic animals glycemia after LPLI. LPLI probably reduced the hyperglycemia in diabetes by improving the insulin resistance in these animals (B). C n = 10, CL n = 10, D n = 7 and DL n = 8. Data are expressed as mean ± SD; * P < 0.05 vs. respective control group; # P < 0.05 vs. D group.

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Fasting blood glucose measured by peroxidase‐glucose oxidase (PGO) method (A), showing a reduction of diabetic animals glycemia after LPLI. LPLI probably reduced the hyperglycemia in diabetes by improving the insulin resistance in these animals (B). C n = 10, CL n = 10, D n = 7 and DL n = 8. Data are expressed as mean ± SD; * P < 0.05 vs. respective control group; # P < 0.05 vs. D group.
The Effects of Aging and Sex Steroid Deficiency on the Murine Skeleton Are Independent and Mechanistically Distinct
Authors: Ucer Serra , Iyer Srividhya , Kim Ha-Neui , Han Li , Rutlen Christine , Allison Kelly , Thostenson Jeff D , de Cabo Rafael , Jilka Robert L , O'Brien Charles , Almeida Maria , Manolagas Stavros C
Published: October 2016

Old age and sex steroid deficiency are the two most critical factors for the development of osteoporosis. It remains unknown, however, whether the molecular culprits of the two conditions are similar or distinct. We show herein that at 19.5 months of age—a time by which the age-dependent decline of cortical and cancellous bone mass and cortical porosity were fully manifested in C57BL/6J mice—these animals remained functionally estrogen sufficient. Transgenic mice with conditional expression of mitochondria-targeted catalase—a potent H2O2 inactivating enzyme—in cells of the myeloid lineage (mitoCAT;LysM-Cre mice) were protected from the loss of cortical, but not cancellous, bone caused by gonadectomy in either sex. Consistent with these findings, in vitro studies with ERα-deficient Prx1+ cells and gonadectomized young adult mice showed that in both sexes decreased ERα signaling in Prx1+ cells leads to an increase in SDF1, a.k.a. CXCL12, an osteoclastogenic cytokine whose effects were abrogated in macrophages from mitoCAT;LysM-Cre mice. In contrast to sex steroid deficiency, the adverse effects of aging on either cortical or cancellous bone were unaffected in mitoCAT;LysM-Cre mice. On the other hand, attenuation of H2O2 generation in cells of the mesenchymal lineage targeted by Prx1-Cre partially prevented the loss of cortical bone caused by old age. Our results suggest the effects of sex steroid deficiency and aging on the murine skeleton are independent and result from distinct mechanisms. In the former, the prevailing mechanism of the cortical bone loss in both sexes is increased osteoclastogenesis caused by estrogen deficiency; this is likely driven, at least in part, by mesenchymal/stromal cell–derived SDF1. Decreased osteoblastogenesis, owing in part to increased H2O2, combined with increased osteoclastogenesis caused by aging mechanisms independent of estrogen deficiency, are the prevailing mechanisms of the loss of cortical bone with old age. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Red blood cell exchange: 2015 American Society for Apheresis consensus conference on the management of patients with sickle cell disease
Authors: Sarode Ravi , Ballas Samir K. , Garcia Alicia , Kim Haewon C , King Karen , Sachais Bruce , Williams Lance A.
Published: October 2016

The American Society for Apheresis (ASFA) conducted a one‐day consensus conference on red blood cell exchange (RBCx) in sickle cell disease (SCD) during its annual meeting in San Antonio, TX, on May 5, 2015. The authors of this article, a subcommittee of ASFA's Clinical Applications Committee, developed several questions with regard to pathophysiology of SCD and use of RBCx in the management of various complications. These questions were provided to the seven invited speakers who are the experts in the field of SCD. Two experts in the field moderated the proceedings of the conference, which was attended by more than 150 participants. After each presentation, there was a summary of the main points by the moderators and an open discussion with questions from the audience. A video recording of the proceedings, as well as each presentation, was made available to the authors. Each author's summary was reviewed and approved by the respective speaker before submission of this manuscript. The subcommittee also developed several key questions to generate a consensus amongst the speakers on key issues for using RBCx for patients with SCD.
Probing gas adsorption in MOFs using an efficient ab initio widom insertion Monte Carlo method
Authors: Lee Youhan , Poloni Roberta , Kim Jihan
Published: October 2016

We propose a novel biased Widom insertion method that can efficiently compute the Henry coefficient, KH, of gas molecules inside porous materials exhibiting strong adsorption sites by employing purely DFT calculations. This is achieved by partitioning the simulation volume into strongly and weakly adsorbing regions and selectively biasing the Widom insertion moves into the former region. We show that only few thousands of single point energy calculations are necessary to achieve accurate statistics compared to many hundreds of thousands or millions of such calculations in conventional random insertions. The methodology is used to compute the Henry coefficient for CO2, N2, CH4, and C2H2 in M‐MOF‐74(M = Zn and Mg), yielding good agreement with published experimental data. Our results demonstrate that the DFT binding energy and the heat of adsorption are not accurate enough indicators to rank the guest adsorption properties at the Henry regime. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Facile and Efficient Synthesis of 4‐Arylidene‐2‐phenyl‐5(4H)‐oxazolones and Their Antimicrobial Evaluation against Selected Human and Phytopathogens
Authors: Voosala Christopher , Kilaru Padma Suhasini , Dasari Uday Kumar
Published: October 2016

A simple and convenient method has been developed for the synthesis of a series of 2‐(4‐substituted phenyl)‐4‐(substituted arylidene)‐1,3‐oxazol‐5‐ones (5a–j) via reactions of hippuric acid with differently substituted aromatic aldehydes (4a–j) in sodium acetate, potassium acetate, calcium acetate, and ammonium acetate, respectively, which were tested for their efficiency as catalysts in both conventional and microwave‐assisted synthetic methods in presence of 4 Å zeolites. The title compounds were evaluated for their antimicrobial properties against selected human pathogens (bacterial and fungal) and phytopathogens (fungal) and were compared with standard drugs. The results of the study are reported.
Challenging of AS160/TBC1D4 Alters Intracellular Lipid milieu in L6 Myotubes Incubated With Palmitate
Authors: Mikłosz Agnieszka , Łukaszuk Bartłomiej , Żendzian‐Piotrowska Małgorzata , Brańska‐Januszewska Justyna , Ostrowska Halina , Chabowski Adrian
Published: October 2016

The Akt substrate of 160 kDa (AS160) is a key regulator of GLUT4 translocation from intracellular depots to the plasma membrane in myocytes. Likely, AS160 also controls LCFAs transport, which requires relocation of fatty acid transporters. The aim of the present study was to determine the impact of AS160 knockdown on lipid milieu in L6 myotubes incubated with palmitate (PA). Therefore, we compared two different settings, namely: 1) AS160 knockdown prior to palmitate incubation (pre‐PA‐silencing, AS160−/PA); 2) palmitate incubation with subsequent AS160 knockdown (post‐PA‐silencing, PA/AS160−). The efficiency of AS160 silencing was checked at mRNA and protein levels. The expression and localization of FA transporters were determined using Western Blot and immunofluorescence analyses. Intracellular lipid content (FFA, DAG, TAG, and PL) and FA composition were estimated by GLC, whereas basal palmitate uptake was analyzed by means of scintigraphy. Both groups with silenced AS160 were characterized by a greater expression of FA transporters (FAT/CD36, FATP‐1, 4) which had contributed to an increased FA cellular influx. Accordingly, we observed that post‐PA‐silencing of AS160 resulted in a marked decrement in DAG, TAG, and PL contents, but increased FFA content (PA/AS160− vs. PA). The opposite effect was observed in the group with pre‐PA‐silencing of AS160 in which AS160 knockdown did not affect the lipid pools (AS160−/PA vs. PA). Our results indicate that post‐PA‐silencing of AS160 has a capacity to decrease the lipotoxic effect(s) of PA by decreasing the content of lipids (DAG and PL) that promote insulin resistance in myotubes. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 2373–2386, 2017. © 2016 The Authors. Journal of Cellular Physiology Published by Wiley Periodicals Inc.
Dact1, a Wnt‐Pathway Inhibitor, Mediates Human Mesangial Cell TGF‐β1‐Induced Apoptosis
Authors: Jardim Daniele Pereira , Poço Paula Cristina Eiras , Campos Alexandre Holthausen
Published: October 2016

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a worldwide public health problem that affects millions of men and women of all ages and racial groups. Loss of mesangial cells (MC) represents an early common feature in the pathogenesis of CKD. Transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) is a key inducer of kidney damage and triggers several pathological changes in renal cells, notably MC apoptosis. However, the mechanism of MC apoptosis induced by TGF‐β1 remains elusive. Here, we demonstrate for the first time a novel regulatory pathway in which the disheveled‐binding antagonist of β‐catenin 1 (Dact1) gene is upregulated by TGF‐β1, inducing MC apoptosis. We also show that the inhibitory effect of Dact1 and TGF‐β1 on the transcriptional activation of the pro‐survival Wnt pathway is the mechanism of death induction. In addition, Dact1 mRNA/protein levels are increased in kidney remnants from 5/6 nephrectomized rats and strongly correlate with TGF‐β1 expression. Together, our results point to Dact1 as a novel element controlling MC survival that is causally related to CKD progression. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 2104–2111, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Inhibitory Effects of Quercetin on Progression of Human Choriocarcinoma Cells Are Mediated Through PI3K/AKT and MAPK Signal Transduction Cascades
Authors: Lim Whasun , Yang Changwon , Park Sunwoo , Bazer Fuller W. , Song Gwonhwa
Published: October 2016

As a major dietary flavonol, quercetin mitigates proliferation and progression of cancer due to its anti‐angiogenic, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐oxidant, and apoptotic biological effects on cells. Although its apoptotic effects have been reported for various cancers, little is known of the functional role of quercetin in gestational choriocarcinoma. Results of the present study indicated that quercetin reduced proliferation and induced cell death in two choriocarcinoma cell lines, JAR and JEG3 cells, with an increase in the sub‐G1 phase of the cell cycle. In addition, quercetin induced mitochondrial dysfunction significantly reduced mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in both JAR and JEG3 cells. Further, quercetin inhibited phosphorylation of AKT, P70S6K and S6 proteins whereas, it increased phosphorylation of ERK1/2, P38, JNK and P90RSK proteins in JAR and JEG3 cells. The decrease in viability of choriocarcinoma cells treated with quercetin was confirmed by using combinations of quercetin and pharmacological inhibitors of the PI3K and MAPK signaling pathways. Classical chemotherapeutic agents, cisplatin (a platinum‐based drug) and paclitaxel (a taxene‐based drug), inhibited proliferation of JAR and JEG3 cells, and when combined with quercetin, the antiproliferative effects of cisplatin and paclitaxel were enhanced for both choriocarcinoma cell lines. Collectively, these results suggest that quercetin prevents development of choriocarcinoma and may be a valuable therapeutic agent for treatment of choriocarcinoma through its regulation of PI3K and MAPK signal transduction pathways. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 1428–1440, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Osteogenic Differentiation of Periosteal Cells During Fracture Healing
Authors: Wang Tao , Zhang Xinping , Bikle Daniel D.
Published: October 2016

Five to ten percent of fractures fail to heal normally leading to additional surgery, morbidity, and altered quality of life. Fracture healing involves the coordinated action of stem cells primarily coming from the periosteum which differentiate into the chondrocytes and osteoblasts, forming first the soft (cartilage) callus followed by the hard (bone) callus. These stem cells are accompanied by a vascular invasion that appears critical for the differentiation process and which may enable the entry of osteoclasts necessary for the remodeling of the callus into mature bone. However, more research is needed to clarify the signaling events that activate the osteochondroprogenitor cells of periosteum and stimulate their differentiation into chondrocytes and osteoblasts. Ultimately a thorough understanding of the mechanisms for differential regulation of these osteochondroprogenitors will aid in the treatment of bone healing and the prevention of delayed union and nonunion of fractures. In this review, evidence supporting the concept that the periosteal cells are the major cell sources of skeletal progenitors for the fracture callus will be discussed. The osteogenic differentiation of periosteal cells manipulated by Wnt/β‐catenin, TGF/BMP, Ihh/PTHrP, and IGF‐1/PI3K–Akt signaling in fracture repair will be examined. The effect of physical (hypoxia and hyperoxia) and chemical factors (reactive oxygen species) as well as the potential coordinated regulatory mechanisms in the periosteal progenitor cells promoting osteogenic differentiation will also be discussed. Understanding the regulation of periosteal osteochondroprogenitors during fracture healing could provide insight into possible therapeutic targets and thereby help to enhance future fracture healing and bone tissue engineering approaches. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 913–921, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lipid modulation of skeletal muscle mass and function
Authors: Lipina Christopher , Hundal Harinder S
Published: October 2016

Loss of skeletal muscle mass is a characteristic feature of various pathologies including cancer, diabetes, and obesity, as well as being a general feature of ageing. However, the processes underlying its pathogenesis are not fully understood and may involve multiple factors. Importantly, there is growing evidence which supports a role for fatty acids and their derived lipid intermediates in the regulation of skeletal muscle mass and function. In this review, we discuss evidence pertaining to those pathways which are involved in the reduction, increase and/or preservation of skeletal muscle mass by such lipids under various pathological conditions, and highlight studies investigating how these processes may be influenced by dietary supplementation as well as genetic and/or pharmacological intervention.
Doxorubicin inhibits muscle inflammation after eccentric exercise
Authors: Huang Sheng‐Chih , Wu Jin‐Fu , Saovieng Suchada , Chien Wei‐Horng , Hsu Ming‐Fen , Li Xiao‐Fei , Lee Shin‐Da , Huang Chih‐Yang , Huang Chih‐Yang , Kuo Chia‐Hua
Published: October 2016

Background

Doxorubicin, a widely used anti‐tumour drug, is known to cause muscle loss in cancer patients.

Methods

Following an acute dose of doxorubicin injection (2.5 mg/kg per body weight), we examined macrophage distribution in rat soleus muscle challenged by eccentric exercise (downhill running). Long‐term doxorubicin treatment (one injection every 3 days) on muscle mass and survival were also determined.

Results

Under non‐exercised condition, increased tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐alpha mRNA and decreased IL‐10 mRNA were observed in soleus muscle of doxorubicin‐treated rats, compared with saline‐treated control rats. However, increases in inflammation score (leukocyte infiltration), nitrotyrosine level, and M1 macrophage (CD68+) invasion in exercised soleus muscle were absent in doxorubicin‐treated rats, whereas increased M2 macrophage (CD163+) localization in exercised muscle was less affected by doxorubicin. Despites coenzyme Q (Q10) supplementation significantly elevated TNF‐alpha mRNA, nitrotyrosine, and anti‐oxidant gamma‐glutamylcysteine synthetase (GCS) levels in non‐exercised soleus muscle, these pro‐inflammatory responses were also abolished in doxorubicin‐treated rats. Results from long‐term doxorubicin treatment show a significant muscle loss followed by an accelerated death, which cannot be reversed by Q10 supplementation.

Conclusions

(i) Doxorubicin impairs inflammation mechanism by depleting M1 macrophage in exercised skeletal muscle; (ii) Muscle loss and accelerated death during prolonged doxorubicin treatment cannot be reversed by Q10 supplementation.