bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Insulin signalling in Alzheimer′s disease and diabetes: from epidemiology to molecular links
Authors: Ribe E. M. , Lovestone S. 
Published: October 2016

AbstractAs populations across the world both age and become more obese, the numbers of individuals with Alzheimer′s disease and diabetes are increasing; posing enormous challenges for society and consequently becoming priorities for governments and global organizations. These issues, an ageing population at risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer′s disease and an increasingly obese population at risk of metabolic alterations such as type 2 diabetes, are usually considered as independent conditions, but increasing evidence from both epidemiological and molecular studies link these disorders. The aim of this review was to highlight these multifactorial links. We will discuss the impact of direct links between insulin and IGF‐1 signalling and the Alzheimer′s disease‐associated pathological events as well as the impact of other processes such as inflammation, oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction either common to both conditions or perhaps responsible for a mechanistic link between metabolic and neurodegenerative disease. An understanding of such associations might be of importance not only in the understanding of disease mechanisms but also in the search for novel therapeutic options.
Epigenomic and transcriptional control of insulin resistance
Authors: Rosen E. D. 
Published: October 2016

AbstractInsulin resistance is one of the defining features of type 2 diabetes and the metabolic syndrome and accompanies many other clinical conditions, ranging from obesity to lipodystrophy to glucocorticoid excess. Extraordinary efforts have gone into defining the mechanisms that underlie insulin resistance, with most attention focused on altered signalling as well as mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum stress. Here, nuclear mechanisms of insulin resistance, including transcriptional and epigenomic effects, will be discussed. Three levels of control involving transcription factors, transcriptional cofactors, and chromatin‐modifying enzymes will be considered. Well‐studied examples of the first include PPAR‐γ in adipose tissue and the glucocorticoid receptor and FoxO1 in a variety of insulin‐sensitive tissues. These proteins work in concert with cofactors such as PGC‐1α and CRTC2, and chromatin‐modifying enzymes including DNA methyltransferases and histone acetyltransferases, to regulate key genes that promote insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake, gluconeogenesis or other pathways that affect systemic insulin action. Furthermore, genetic variation associated with increased risk of type 2 diabetes is often related to altered transcription factor binding, either by affecting the transcription factor itself, or more commonly by changing the binding affinity of a noncoding regulatory region. Finally, several avenues for therapeutic exploitation in the battle against metabolic disease will be discussed, including small‐molecule inhibitors and activators of these factors and their related pathways.
Effect of experimental anterior temporalis muscle pain on jaw movements
Authors: Amhamed M. , Whittle T. , Maulina T. , Gal J. , Akhter R. , Murray G. M. 
Published: October 2016

SummaryTo test the hypotheses that experimental noxious stimulation of the anterior temporalis muscle results in significant decreases in jaw movement amplitude and velocity, and there are significant correlations between scores of mood or pain‐related cognitions and amplitude and velocity. The jaw movements of 14 asymptomatic participants were recorded during standardised open/close jaw movements and free and standardised chewing tasks. Tonic infusion of hypertonic saline into the right anterior temporalis muscle maintained pain intensity between 40 and 60 mm on a 100‐mm visual analogue scale. Tasks were performed in a single session in the following sequence: baseline condition, test 1 condition (during hypertonic or isotonic saline infusion), test 2 condition (during saline infusion) (10‐min rest between conditions). Participants completed the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS‐21) and the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS). Amplitude and velocity of opening and closing were compared between conditions with a repeated‐measures analysis of variance (anova), and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient explored correlations; statistical significance: P < 0·05. For any of the three tasks, there were no significant differences in kinematic variables between any condition and no significant correlations between DASS‐21 or PCS scores and kinematic variables during hypertonic saline infusion. The absence of a significant reduction in velocity or amplitude of open/close or chewing jaw movements during experimental temporalis muscle pain is not consistent with the Pain Adaptation Model proposing decreases in kinematic measures in pain. The lack of significant correlations between psychological variables and measures of jaw movement may reflect the low scores reported by our study sample.
Nanostructured hybrids for the improvement of folic acid biopharmaceutical properties
Authors: Pagano Cinzia , Tiralti Maria Cristina , Perioli Luana 
Published: October 2016

Abstract

Objectives
Folic acid (FA) is an important source for the prevention of many diseases. However, its use is limited because the very low solubility (&lt;10 mg/l particularly in the gastric environment) responsible for the incomplete adsorption of the administered dose. This study proposes a technological strategy to overcome this problem enhancing FA dissolution rate by means of a formulation able to make completely bioavailable the whole administered dose.

Methods
Folic acid was intercalated in the layered double hydroxides (LDHs) MgAl-LDH and ZnAl-LDH. The obtained inorganic–organic nanostructured hybrids MgAl-LDH-FA and ZnAl-LDH-FA were deeply characterized and used to prepare immediate release tablets presenting very simple compositions. The hybrids, both as simple powders and as tablets, were submitted to in-vitro release studies mimic the gastric environment conducted both in sink and non-sink conditions.

Key findings
Folic acid release from hybrids, as single powders or as tablets, resulted enhanced in both experiments in comparison with crystalline FA.

Conclusions
Obtained results showed that FA-LDH nanostructured hybrids are a promising strategy able to enhance the active ingredient dissolution at low pH values representing a promising approach suitable to realize innovative and effective nutraceutical products.
Pirfenidone ameliorates concanavalin A-induced hepatitis in mice via modulation of reactive oxygen species/nuclear factor kappa B signalling pathways
Authors: El-Agamy Dina S 
Published: October 2016

Abstract

Objectives
This study aimed to evaluate the potential protective effects of pirfenidone (PFD) against concanavalin A (Con A)-induced hepatitis in mice.

Methods
Autoimmune model of hepatitis was established using single intravenous injection of Con A. Mice were randomly assigned into four groups as follows: control group; Con A group; and two groups, receiving PFD in two dose levels (200, 300 mg/kg) for 5 days before Con A administration. Extent of hepatitis was studied using biochemical, histopathological and immunohistochemical estimations.

Key findings
Hepatitis was clearly evident through extensive hepatocellular lesions and elevated levels of serum transaminases, alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase. Con A induced an imbalance between oxidant and antioxidant status in the hepatic tissue. Furthermore, Con A significantly elevated hepatic nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) expression and inflammatory cytokines levels (tumour necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-6 and nitric oxide). PFD pretreatment potently ameliorated all these pathological changes.

Conclusions
Pirfenidone hepatoprotective activity may be mediated through its antioxidant ability that suppresses NF-κB activation signalling pathways suggesting that PFD may be a new candidate for treatment of acute hepatitis.
Melatonin enhances survival and preserves functional integrity of stem cells: A review
Authors: Lee Mel S. , Yin Tsung‐Cheng , Sung Pei‐Hsun , Chiang John Y. , Sun Cheuk‐Kwan , Yip Hon‐Kan 
Published: October 2016

AbstractDespite state‐of‐the‐art pharmaceutical regimens, continuous improvements in diagnostic techniques as well as refinements in equipment and interventional procedures, many diseases remain refractory to conventional therapies. Recent advances in stem cell (SC) biology have opened an avenue to exploring its therapeutic potential in various disease entities, especially those that are ischemia‐related and refractory to conventional treatment. A number of experimental studies and clinical trials have already demonstrated promising outcomes. On the other hand, SC therapy is associated with major problems. For instance, ischemia, inflammation, and oxidative stress are some of the factors unfavorable for SC survival once SCs are implanted into the ischemic area in an attempt to enhance tissue regeneration and restore organ function. Melatonin, which is originally derived from pineal gland in the regulation of human circadian rhythms and sleep, is a potent free radical scavenger and metal chelator with the capacity to alleviate oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions as well as stabilizing cell membranes. Accumulating data have demonstrated that melatonin‐supported SC therapy is superior to SC alone for improving ischemia‐related organ dysfunction. In this review, we describe and interpret the potential role of melatonin in sustaining the survival and preserving the functional integrity of SC.
IGFBP3 and MAPK/ERK signaling mediates melatonin‐induced antitumor activity in prostate cancer
Authors: Mayo Juan C. , Hevia David , Quiros‐Gonzalez Isabel , Rodriguez‐Garcia Aida , Gonzalez‐Menendez Pedro , Cepas Vanesa , Gonzalez‐Pola Iván , Sainz Rosa M. 
Published: October 2016

AbstractTreatment of prostate cancer (PCa), a leading cause of cancer among males, lacks successful strategies especially in advanced, hormone‐refractory stages. Some clinical studies have shown an increase in neuroendocrine‐like cells parallel to the tumor progression but their exact role is a matter of debate. The prostate is a well‐known target for melatonin, which reduces PCa cells proliferation and induces neuroendocrine differentiation. To evaluate the mechanisms underlying the indole effects on neuroendocrine differentiation and its impact on PCa progression, we used a cell culture model (LNCaP) and a murine model (TRAMP). Persistent ERK1/2 activation was found in both, melatonin and androgen‐deprived cells. Melatonin blocked nuclear translocation of androgen receptor (AR), thus confirming anti‐androgenic actions of the indole. However, using a comparative genome microarray to check the differentially expressed genes in control, melatonin, or androgen‐deprived cells, some differences were found, suggesting a more complex role of the indole. By comparing control cells with those treated with melatonin or depleted of androgen, a cluster of 26 differentially expressed genes (±2.5‐fold) was found. Kallikreins (KLK)2 and KLK3 (PSA) were dramatically downregulated by both treatments whereas IGFBP3 and IGF1R were up‐ and downregulated, respectively, in both experimental groups, thus showing a role for IGF in both scenarios. Finally, melatonin prolonged the survival of TRAMP mice by 33% when given at the beginning or at advances stages of the tumor. Serum IGFBP3 was significantly elevated by the indole in early stages of the tumor, confirming in vivo the role of the IGF signaling in the oncostatic action of the indole.
Biochemical evaluation of the effects of storage on feline erythrocytes
Authors: Heinz J. A. , Pashmakova M. B. , Wilson C. R. , Johnson M. C. , Minnard H. M. , Bishop M. A. , Barr J. W. 
Published: October 2016

ObjectiveTo describe the biochemical changes that occur during storage of feline packed red blood cells.MethodsFeline packed red blood cells were obtained from the manufacturer via overnight delivery immediately following collection. Bag spikes were placed using aseptic technique and samples were drawn on days 1, 4, 7, 14, 21, 28 and 35. Sodium, potassium, chloride, glucose, lactate, pH and ammonia were measured at each time point. Aerobic and anaerobic bacterial cultures were submitted following collection on day 35.ResultsThere were statistically significant increases in the median concentrations of lactate and ammonia within the first 2 weeks of storage to a concentration of 12·38 mmol/L and 447·96 µmol/L, respectively. Glucose concentrations decreased significantly by day 28 to a mean of 1·86 mmol/L. Median sodium and chloride concentrations increased throughout the course of storage to a concentration of 158·20 and 131·00 mmol/L, respectively. Mean potassium concentrations decreased to a concentration of 2·40 mmol/L.Clinical SignificanceThese results show that biochemical derangements within feline packed red blood cells are progressive, with some alterations, such as lactate and ammonia, occurring early within the storage periods, while others, including glucose and electrolytes, are slower to develop. Additional prospective research evaluating the clinical effects of these biochemical alterations is required.
Differential plant species responses to interactions of sand burial, precipitation enhancement and climatic variation promote co‐existence in Chinese steppe vegetation
Authors: Ye Xuehua , Liu Zhilan , Gao Shuqin , Cui Qingguo , Liu Guofang , Du Juan , Dong Ming , Huang Zhenying , Cornelissen Johannes H.C. 
Published: October 2016

AbstractAimsSand burial and precipitation play important roles in vegetation of inland deserts and desertified areas, and both are under strong influence of climate and land‐use change. Sand deposition and precipitation both vary greatly in space and time, and different plant species, with diverse adaptations, occupy different niches along spatial gradients in the combination of sand and water availability dynamics. We hypothesized that species specificity in spatial and temporal niche occupation along such gradients is a mechanism for their co‐existence and, thereby, a driver and stabilizer of biodiversity in dry, sandy areas.LocationOrdos Plateau, China.MethodsWe conducted a 2‐yr field experiment with factorial treatments of precipitation (control, slight enhancement, strong enhancement) and sand addition (control, medium addition, large addition). Plant cover of the six dominant species was followed over different seasons, as we expected different species to benefit from different treatments in different seasons and years with different weather regimes.ResultsSand burial alone significantly affected plant cover of all six dominant species, while precipitation enhancement had no significant effect. Effects of sand burial on plant cover changed overall during the two hydrologically contrasting years. Our key finding was that there were multiple significant two‐ and three‐way interactions between species, sand burial and precipitation enhancement on plant cover, while there were also multiple two‐ and three‐way interactions involving species, sand burial or precipitation treatment with year and/or season.ConclusionOur results supported our hypothesis, i.e. the co‐existence of species in a semi‐arid sand dune can be explained from the different niches they occupy in terms of seasonal and year‐to‐year variation in precipitation in combination with sand deposition regime. The interactions of these drivers on plant cover with experimental enhancement of precipitation, mimicking a realistic scenario for this region, suggest that shifts in species composition are to be expected this century. More generally, our findings advance our understanding of what drives species co‐existence and thereby biodiversity, now and in the future.
The role of soil features in shaping the bite force and related skull and mandible morphology in the subterranean rodents of genusCtenomys(Hystricognathi: Ctenomyidae)
Authors: Borges L. R. , Maestri R. , Kubiak B. B. , Galiano D. , Fornel R. , Freitas T. R. O. 
Published: October 2016

AbstractFor rodents that live underground, digging in highly compacted soils requires a higher energy expenditure than digging in poorly compacted soils. We tested how soil hardness affects the bite force as well as the shape and size of the skulls and mandibles of tuco‐tucos. Our hypothesis is that species that inhabit harder soils would show a stronger bite force, which should be reflected in the shape of the skull and mandible, while species living in softer soils should have a weaker bite force. We used 24 species of the genusCtenomysto estimate bite force (through the incisor strength formula) and quantify the shape and size of the skull and mandible. Information on soil bulk density in the regions occupied by each species was obtained from the literature. We used a combination of geometric morphometric and comparative methods to test our hypothesis. A phylogenetic linear regression (PGLS) between bite force (N) and centroid size was used to account for the dependence of bite force on size. We employed a series of two‐block partial least‐squares analyses to uncover the covariation between bite force and the shape of the skull and mandible. Finally, we ran five independentPGLSanalyses to assess the influence of bulk density on bite force, skull shape and mandible shape, taking into account phylogenetic non‐independence. Species with higher bite forces tend to inhabit more‐compact soils. However, for most species, the relationship between bite force and soil bulk density was unclear, resulting in a low overall correlation. Nonetheless, differences in skull and mandible shapes were generally associated with bite force (r = 0.60). In denser soils, species with high and low bite forces occur, whereas in lower density soils, we found only species with weak bite forces. Differences in the excavation strategies among species may be responsible for this pattern.
Prioritization of pollution potential zones for conservation activities of a lake system
Authors: Moses Sheela A. , Janaki Letha , Joseph Sabu , Joseph Justus , Thomas Jobin , Lal Pramod 
Published: October 2016

AbstractMany coastal lakes are under serious threats due to increased pressures associated with population growth, accelerated eutrophication, invasive species and toxic contamination. The extent of the pollution depends almost entirely on the characteristics and processes taking place in the lake basin. The objective of this study was to identify the pollution potential zones (very high, high, medium and low) in the Akkulam–Veli (A–V) Lake Basin (Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala) using GIS‐enabled, multithematic overlay analysis. The primary characteristics considered were geomorphology, lithology, land use, soil, slope and population density. The results of this study indicated the major portion of the lake basin exhibits very high or high pollution potential zones, with the drains passing through the very high pollution potential zone being mainly responsible for the contamination of the lake water. High population density, predominant commercial use and settlement with mixed tree crop, level and gentle slope (low slope) are the factors responsible for the very high pollution potential. The organic pollutants in the lake system increase with the increased extent of the very high pollution potential area. This analysis approach will help authorities to identify the underlying causes of lake water quality degradation and plan and implement effective measures for protecting the lake. This process can also be utilized by scientists elsewhere to facilitate lake protection.
Health and nutrition content claims on websites advertising infant formula available in Australia: A content analysis
Authors: Berry Nina J. , Gribble Karleen D. 
Published: October 2016

AbstractThe use of health and nutrition content claims in infant formula advertising is restricted by many governments in response to WHO policies and WHA resolutions. The purpose of this study was to determine whether such prohibited claims could be observed in Australian websites that advertise infant formula products. A comprehensive internet search was conducted to identify websites that advertise infant formula available for purchase in Australia. Content analysis was used to identify prohibited claims. The coding frame was closely aligned with the provisions of the Australian and New Zealand Food Standard Code, which prohibits these claims. The outcome measures were the presence of health claims, nutrition content claims, or references to the nutritional content of human milk. Web pages advertising 25 unique infant formula products available for purchase in Australia were identified. Every advertisement (100%) contained at least one health claim. Eighteen (72%) also contained at least one nutrition content claim. Three web pages (12%) advertising brands associated with infant formula products referenced the nutritional content of human milk. All of these claims appear in spite of national regulations prohibiting them indicating a failure of monitoring and/or enforcement. Where countries have enacted instruments to prohibit health and other claims in infant formula advertising, the marketing of infant formula must be actively monitored to be effective.
Relationships between soil and leaf mineral composition are element‐specific, environment‐dependent and geographically structured in the emerging model Arabidopsis halleri
Authors: Stein Ricardo J. , Höreth Stephan , de Melo J. Romário F. , Syllwasschy Lara , Lee Gwonjin , Garbin Mário L. , Clemens Stephan , Krämer Ute 
Published: October 2016

Summary

Leaf mineral composition, the leaf ionome, reflects the complex interaction between a plant and its environment including local soil composition, an influential factor that can limit species distribution and plant productivity. Here we addressed within‐species variation in plant–soil interactions and edaphic adaptation using Arabidopsis halleri, a well‐suited model species as a facultative metallophyte and metal hyperaccumulator.

We conducted multi‐element analysis of 1972 paired leaf and soil samples from 165 European populations of A. halleri, at individual resolution to accommodate soil heterogeneity. Results were further confirmed under standardized conditions upon cultivation of 105 field‐collected genotypes on an artificially metal‐contaminated soil in growth chamber experiments.

Soil‐independent between‐ and within‐population variation set apart leaf accumulation of zinc, cadmium and lead from all other nutrient and nonessential elements, concurring with differential hypothesized ecological roles in either biotic interaction or nutrition. For these metals, soil–leaf relationships were element‐specific, differed between metalliferous and nonmetalliferous soils and were geographically structured both in the field and under standardized growth conditions, implicating complex scenarios of recent ecological adaptation.

Our study provides an example and a reference for future related work and will serve as a basis for the molecular–genetic dissection and ecological analysis of the observed phenotypic variation.