Eldorado Community:http://hdl.handle.net/2003/337792024-03-29T15:46:52Z2024-03-29T15:46:52ZAge-dependent changes of the antioxidant system in rat livers are accompanied by altered MAPK activation and a decline in motor signalingYang, WeiBurkhardt, BrittaFischer, LuiseBeirow, MajaBork, NadjaWönne, Eva C.Wagner, CorneliaHusen, BettinaZeilinger, KatrinLiu, LiegangNussler, Andreas K.http://hdl.handle.net/2003/350632016-07-06T01:40:50Z2015-12-22T00:00:00ZTitle: Age-dependent changes of the antioxidant system in rat livers are accompanied by altered MAPK activation and a decline in motor signaling
Authors: Yang, Wei; Burkhardt, Britta; Fischer, Luise; Beirow, Maja; Bork, Nadja; Wönne, Eva C.; Wagner, Cornelia; Husen, Bettina; Zeilinger, Katrin; Liu, Liegang; Nussler, Andreas K.
Abstract: Aging is characterized by a progressive decrease of cellular functions, because cells gradually lose their capacity to respond to injury. Increased oxidative stress is considered to be one of the major contributors to age-related changes in all organs including the liver. Our study has focused on elucidating whether important antioxidative enzymes, the mTOR pathway, and MAPKs exhibit age-dependent changes in the liver of rats during aging. We found an age-dependent increase of GSH in the cytosol and mitochondria. The aged liver showed an increased SOD enzyme activity, while the CAT enzyme activity decreased. HO-1 and NOS-2 gene expression was lower in adult rats, but up-regulated in aged rats. Western blot analysis revealed that SOD1, SOD2, GPx, GR, γ-GCL, and GSS were age-dependent up-regulated, while CAT remained constant. We also demonstrated that the phosphorylation of Akt, JNK, p38, and TSC2Ser1254 decreased while ERK1/2 and TSC2Thr1462 increased agedependently. Furthermore, our data show that the mTOR pathway seems to be activated in livers of aged rats, and hence stimulating cell proliferation/regeneration, as confirmed by an age-dependent increase of PCNA and p-eIF4ESer209 protein expression. Our data may help to explain the fact that liver cells only proliferate in cases of necessity, like injury and damage. In summary, we have demonstrated that, age-dependent changes of the antioxidant system and stress-related signaling pathways occur in the livers of rats, which may help to better understand organ aging.2015-12-22T00:00:00ZAn enhanced algorithm for multiple sequence alignment of protein sequences using genetic algorithmKumar, Manishhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350622016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-12-15T00:00:00ZTitle: An enhanced algorithm for multiple sequence alignment of protein sequences using genetic algorithm
Authors: Kumar, Manish
Abstract: One of the most fundamental operations in biological sequence analysis is multiple sequence alignment (MSA). The basic of multiple sequence alignment problems is to determine the most biologically plausible alignments of protein or DNA sequences. In this paper, an alignment method using genetic algorithm for multiple sequence alignment has been proposed. Two different genetic operators mainly crossover and mutation were defined and implemented with the proposed method in order to know the population evolution and quality of the sequence aligned. The proposed method is assessed with protein benchmark dataset, e.g., BALIBASE, by comparing the obtained results to those obtained with other alignment algorithms, e.g., SAGA, RBT-GA, PRRP, HMMT, SBPIMA, CLUSTALX, CLUSTAL W, DIALIGN and PILEUP8 etc. Experiments on a wide range of data have shown that the proposed algorithm is much better (it terms of score) than previously proposed algorithms in its ability to achieve high alignment quality.2015-12-15T00:00:00ZEffect of Syzygium cumini and Bauhinia forficata aqueous-leaf extracts on oxidative and mitochondrial parameters in vitroEcker, AssisAraujo Vieira, Franciellide Souza Prestes, AlessandroMulling dos Santos, MatheusRamos, AngelicaDias Ferreira, RafaelTeixeira de Macedo, GabrielVargas Klimaczewski, ClaudiaLopes Seeger, RodrigoTeixeira da Rocha, João Batistade Vargas Barbosa, Nilda B.http://hdl.handle.net/2003/350612016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-11-27T00:00:00ZTitle: Effect of Syzygium cumini and Bauhinia forficata aqueous-leaf extracts on oxidative and mitochondrial parameters in vitro
Authors: Ecker, Assis; Araujo Vieira, Francielli; de Souza Prestes, Alessandro; Mulling dos Santos, Matheus; Ramos, Angelica; Dias Ferreira, Rafael; Teixeira de Macedo, Gabriel; Vargas Klimaczewski, Claudia; Lopes Seeger, Rodrigo; Teixeira da Rocha, João Batista; de Vargas Barbosa, Nilda B.
Abstract: Aqueous-leaf extract of Syzygium cumini and Bauhinia forficata are traditionally used in the treatment of diabetes and cancer, especially in South America, Africa, and Asia. In this study, we analyzed the effects of these extracts on oxidative and mitochondrial parameters in vitro, as well as their protective activities against toxic agents. Phytochemical screenings of the extracts were carried out by HPLC analysis. The in vitro antioxidant capacities were compared by DPPH radical scavenging and Fe2+ chelating activities. Mitochondrial parameters observed were swelling, lipid peroxidation and dehydrogenase activity. The major chemical constituent of S. cumini was rutin. In B. forficata were predominant quercetin and gallic acid. S. cumini reduced DPPH radical more than B. forficata, and showed iron chelating activity at all tested concentrations, while B. forficata had not similar property. In mitochondria, high concentrations of B. forficata alone induced a decrease in mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity, but low concentrations of this extract prevented the effect induced by Fe2++H2O2. This was also observed with high concentrations of S. cumini. Both extracts partially prevented the lipid peroxidation induced by Fe2+/citrate. S. cumini was effective against mitochondrial swelling induced by Ca2+, while B. forficata alone induced swelling more than Ca2+. This study suggests that leaf extract of S. cumini might represent a useful therapeutic for the treatment of diseases related with mitochondrial dysfunctions. On the other hand, the consumption of B. forficata should be avoided because mitochondrial damages were observed, and this possibly may pose risk to human health.2015-11-27T00:00:00ZEye-blinks in choice response tasks uncover hidden aspects of information processingWascher, EdmundHeppner, HolgerMöckel, TinaKobald, Sven OliverGetzmann, Stephanhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350602016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-11-27T00:00:00ZTitle: Eye-blinks in choice response tasks uncover hidden aspects of information processing
Authors: Wascher, Edmund; Heppner, Holger; Möckel, Tina; Kobald, Sven Oliver; Getzmann, Stephan
Abstract: Spontaneous eye-blinks occur much more often than it would be necessary to maintain the tear film on the eyes. Various factors like cognitive demand, task engagement, or fatigue are influencing spontaneous blink rate. During cognitive information processing there is evidence that blinks occur preferably at moments that can be assigned to input stream segmentation. We investigated blinking behavior in three different visual choice response experiments (Experiment 1: spatial Stimulus-Response correspondence, Experiment 2: Change Detection, Experiment 3: Continuous performance Test - AX version). Blinks during the experimental tasks were suppressed when new information was expected, as well as during cognitive processing until the response was executed. Blinks in go trials occurred within a short and relatively constant interval after manual responses. However, blinks were not a side effect of manual behavior, as they occurred in a similar manner in no-go trials in which no manual response was executed. In these trials, blinks were delayed when a prepared response had to be inhibited, compared to trials in which no response was intended. Additionally, time on task effects for no-go blinks mirrored those obtained in go trials. Thus, blinks seem to provide a reliable measure for cognitive processing beyond (or rather additional to) manual responses.2015-11-27T00:00:00ZGenome-wide investigation and expression analysis of AP2-ERF gene family in salt tolerant common beanKavas, MusaKurt Kızıldoğan, AslıhanGökdemir, GökhanBaloğlu, Mehmet Cengizhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350592021-04-07T22:37:01Z2015-11-27T00:00:00ZTitle: Genome-wide investigation and expression analysis of AP2-ERF gene family in salt tolerant common bean
Authors: Kavas, Musa; Kurt Kızıldoğan, Aslıhan; Gökdemir, Gökhan; Baloğlu, Mehmet Cengiz
Abstract: Apetala2-ethylene-responsive element binding factor (AP2-ERF) superfamily with common AP2-DNA binding domain have developmentally and physiologically important roles in plants. Since common bean genome project has been completed recently, it is possible to identify all of the AP2-ERF genes in the common bean genome. In this study, a comprehensive genome-wide in silico analysis identified 180 AP2-ERF superfamily genes in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris). Based on the amino acid alignment and phylogenetic analyses, superfamily members were classified into four subfamilies: DREB (54), ERF (95), AP2 (27) and RAV (3), as well as one soloist. The physical and chemical characteristics of amino acids, interaction between AP2-ERF proteins, cis elements of promoter region of AP2-ERF genes and phylogenetic trees were predicted and analyzed. Additionally, expression levels of AP2-ERF genes were evaluated by in silico and qRT-PCR analyses. In silico micro-RNA target transcript analyses identified nearly all PvAP2-ERF genes as targets of by 44 different plant species’ miRNAs were identified in this study. The most abundant target genes were PvAP2/ERF-20-25-62-78-113-173. miR156, miR172 and miR838 were the most important miRNAs found in targeting and BLAST analyses. Interactome analysis revealed that the transcription factor PvAP2-ERF78, an ortholog of Arabidopsis At2G28550, was potentially interacted with at least 15 proteins, indicating that it was very important in transcriptional regulation. Here we present the first study to identify and characterize the AP2-ERF transcription factors in common bean using whole-genome analysis, and the findings may serve as a references for future functional research on the transcription factors in common bean.2015-11-27T00:00:00ZImpaired glucose and lipid metabolism in ageing aryl hydrocarbon receptor deficient miceBiljes, DanielHammerschmidt-Kamper, ChristianeKadow, StephanieDiel, PatrickWeigt, CarmenBurkart, VolkerEsser, Charlottehttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350582016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-11-18T00:00:00ZTitle: Impaired glucose and lipid metabolism in ageing aryl hydrocarbon receptor deficient mice
Authors: Biljes, Daniel; Hammerschmidt-Kamper, Christiane; Kadow, Stephanie; Diel, Patrick; Weigt, Carmen; Burkart, Volker; Esser, Charlotte
Abstract: Disturbed homeostasis of glucose and lipid metabolism are dominant features of the so-called metabolic syndrome
(MetS) and can increase the risk for the development of type 2 diabetes (T2D), a severe metabolic disease.
T2D prevalence increases with age. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a sensor of small molecules including dietary components. AHR has been identified as potential regulator of glucose homeostasis and lipid metabolism. Epidemiologically, exposure to xenobiotic AHR ligands such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons is linked to T2D. We assess here the potential role of the AHR in disturbances of glucose and lipid metabolism in young (age 2-5 months) and old (age > 1,5 years) AHR-deficient (AHR KO) mice. Fasted young wildtype (WT) and AHR-KO mice displayed similar blood glucose kinetics after challenge with intra-peritoneal glucose injection. However, old AHR-KO mice showed lower tolerance than WT to i.p. administered glucose, i.e. glucose levels rose higher and returned more slowly to normal levels. Old mice had overall higher insulin levels than young mice, and old AHR-KO had a somewhat disturbed insulin kinetic in the serum after glucose challenge. Surprisingly, young AHR-KO mice had significantly lower triglycerides, cholesterol, high density lipoprotein values than WT, i.e., a dyslipidemic profile. With ageing, AHR-KO and WT mice did not differ in these lipid levels, except for slightly reduced levels of triglycerides and cholesterol. In conclusion, our findings in AHR KO mice suggest that AHR expression is relevant for the maintenance of glucose and lipid homeostasis in old mice.2015-11-18T00:00:00ZFunctional near-infrared spectroscopy: a continuous wave type based system for human frontal lobe studiesVenclove, SigitaDaktariunas, AlgisRuksenas, Osvaldashttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350572016-07-06T01:40:50Z2015-10-23T00:00:00ZTitle: Functional near-infrared spectroscopy: a continuous wave type based system for human frontal lobe studies
Authors: Venclove, Sigita; Daktariunas, Algis; Ruksenas, Osvaldas
Abstract: Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) is an optical non-invasive brain monitoring technology that registers changes in hemodynamic responses within the cortex of the human brain. Over the last decades fNIRS became a promising method in neurosciences: it is non-invasive, portable and can be used in long term studies. All these advantages make it suitable for educational purposes as well. This paper presents basic methodological concept of optical engineering principles and suitable applications of fNIRS. We represent a continuous wave (cw-fNIRS) system that could be used for frontal lobe studies in human adults or as demonstration equipment for physiological measurements. This system has been validated by comparing it with commercial device fNIR400 from Biopac. A comparison of geometry, data and statistical analyses suggests similar hemodynamic responses recorded by both devices. Our study suggests that this system can be used for further development and as a guideline for researchers to develop a specific tool for applications in human brain studies.2015-10-23T00:00:00ZA genetically immortalized human stem cell line: a promising new tool for Alzheimer's disease therapyPuangmalai, NichaSomani, AlymaThangnipon, WipawanBallard, CliveBroadstock, Martinhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350562016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-10-21T00:00:00ZTitle: A genetically immortalized human stem cell line: a promising new tool for Alzheimer's disease therapy
Authors: Puangmalai, Nicha; Somani, Alyma; Thangnipon, Wipawan; Ballard, Clive; Broadstock, Martin
Abstract: Amyloid-β peptides and hyper-phosphorylated tau are the main pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Given the recent failure of several large-scale clinical trials and the lack of disease-modifying pharmacological treatments, there is an urgent need to develop alternative therapies. A clinical grade human CTX0E03 neural stem cell line has recently passed phase I trials in people with stroke. However, this cell line has not been investigated in other neurodegenerative disorders. This study investigates the survival of CTX0E03 cells under conditions based on the underlying AD pathology. Cell viability assays showed a concentration dependence of this cell line to the toxic effects of Aβ1-42, but not Aβ1-40, and okadaic acid, a phosphatase 2A inhibitor. Notably, CTX0E03 cell line displayed toxicity at concentrations significantly higher than both rat neural stem cells and those previously reported for primary cultures. These results suggest CTX0E03 cells could be developed for clinical trials in AD patients.2015-10-21T00:00:00ZAnti-inflammatory effects of enzymatic hydrolysates of velvet antler in RAW 264.7 cells in vitro and zebrafish modelLee, Seung-HongYang, Hye-WonDing, YulingWang, YanmeiJeon, You-JinMoon, Sang-HoJeon, Byong-TaeSung, Si-Heunghttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350552016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-10-20T00:00:00ZTitle: Anti-inflammatory effects of enzymatic hydrolysates of velvet antler in RAW 264.7 cells in vitro and zebrafish model
Authors: Lee, Seung-Hong; Yang, Hye-Won; Ding, Yuling; Wang, Yanmei; Jeon, You-Jin; Moon, Sang-Ho; Jeon, Byong-Tae; Sung, Si-Heung
Abstract: Enzymatic hydrolysis has been successfully used for the extraction of numerous biologically active components from a wide variety of natural sources. In the present study, velvet antler was subjected to the extraction process using Alcalase protease. We analyzed bioactive components, such as uronic acid, sulfated-glycosaminoglycans (sulfated-GAGs), and sialic acid, present in the velvet antler Alcalase hydrolysate (VAAH) and assessed their anti-inflammatory effects in zebrafish as well as in vitro using cell lines. VAAH mainly contained uronic acid (78.22 mg/g) and sulfated-GAGs (50.47 mg/g), while the amount of sialic acid was negligible (5.55 mg/g). VAAH inhibited the production of nitric oxide (NO) by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cells in a dosedependent manner and the inhibitory effect of VAAH on NO production was higher than that of hot water extracts. VAAH treatment also reduced the expression of inflammatory mediators such as nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Furthermore, we evaluated anti-inflammatory effects of VAAH using LPS-stimulated zebrafish. Treatment with LPS significantly increased cell death, NO, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in zebrafish. Notably, VAAH significantly inhibited the extent of LPS-stimulated cell death and generation of NO and ROS in zebrafish. These results suggest that VAAH alleviated inflammation and cell death by inhibiting the generation of ROS induced by LPS treatment. Thus, VAAH could be used as a potential natural remedy with a trong anti-inflammatory effect. Taken together, we believe that based on our present results, enzymatic hydrolysis of velvet antler may be an effective process to make antler products acceptable as elements of health foods and nutraceutical components with increased biological activity.2015-10-20T00:00:00ZAnti-inflammatory effects of isoketocharbroic acid from brown alga, Sargassum micracanthumHam, Young MinYoon, Weon-JongLee, Wook JaeKim, Sang-CheolBaik, Jong SeokKim, Jin HwaLee, Geun SooLee, Nam HoHyun, Chang-Guhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350542016-07-05T12:55:25Z2015-10-15T00:00:00ZTitle: Anti-inflammatory effects of isoketocharbroic acid from brown alga, Sargassum micracanthum
Authors: Ham, Young Min; Yoon, Weon-Jong; Lee, Wook Jae; Kim, Sang-Cheol; Baik, Jong Seok; Kim, Jin Hwa; Lee, Geun Soo; Lee, Nam Ho; Hyun, Chang-Gu
Abstract: During our on-going screening program designed to isolate natural compounds from marine environments, we isolated isoketochabrolic acid (IKCA) from Sargassum micracanthum, an important brown algae distributed in Jeju Island, Korea. Furthermore, we evaluated the inhibitory effects of IKCA on nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-triggered macrophages. IKCA strongly inhibited NO production, with an IC50 value of 58.31 μM. Subsequent studies demonstrated that IKCA potently and concentration-dependently reduced prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6 cytokine production. In conclusion, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to show that IKCA isolated from S. micracanthum has a potent anti-inflammatory activity. Therefore, IKCA might be useful as an anti-inflammatory health supplement or functional cosmetics.2015-10-15T00:00:00ZSynergistic effects of nitric oxide and exercise on revascularisation in the infarcted ventricle in a murine model of myocardial infarctionRanjbar, KamalNazem, FarzadNazari, AfshinGholami, MohammadrezaNezami, Ali RezaArdakanizade, MaliheSohrabi, MaryamAhmadvand, HasanMottaghi, MohammadAzizi, Yaserhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350532016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-10-14T00:00:00ZTitle: Synergistic effects of nitric oxide and exercise on revascularisation in the infarcted ventricle in a murine model of myocardial infarction
Authors: Ranjbar, Kamal; Nazem, Farzad; Nazari, Afshin; Gholami, Mohammadreza; Nezami, Ali Reza; Ardakanizade, Malihe; Sohrabi, Maryam; Ahmadvand, Hasan; Mottaghi, Mohammad; Azizi, Yaser
Abstract: It has been shown that density of microvessels decreases in the left ventricular after myocardial infarction (MI). The change of angiogenic and angiostatic factors as the main factors in revascularisation after exercise training in area at risk is not determined yet in MI. Therefore, the aim of the present study was the effect of exercise training and L-arginine supplementation on area at risk angiogenesis in myocardial infarction rat. Four weeks after surgery (Left Anterior Descending Coronary artery Ligation), myocardial infarction rats were divided into 4 groups: Sedentary rats (Sed-MI); L-arginine supplementation (La-MI); Exercise training (Ex-MI) and Exercise + L-arginine (Ex+La). Exercise training (ET) lasted for 10 weeks at 17 m/min for 10–50 min day−1. Rats in the Larginine-treated groups drank water containing 4 % L-arginine. After ET and L-arginine supplementation, ventricular function was evaluated and angiogenic and angiostatic indices were measured at ~1 mm from the edge of scar tissue (area at risk). Statistical analysis revealed that gene expression of VEGF as an angiogenic factor, angiostatin as an angiostatic factor and caspase-3 at area at risk decrease significantly in response to exercise training compared to the sedentary group. The capillary and arteriolar density in the Ex groups were significantly higher than those of the Sed groups. Compared to the Ex-MI group, the Ex+La group showed a markedly increase in capillary to fiber ratio. No significant differences were found in infarct size among the four groups, but cardiac function increased in response to exercise. Exercise training increases revascularization at area at risk by reduction of angiostatin. L-arginine supplementation causes additional effects on exercise-induced angiogenesis by preventing more reduction of VEGF gene expression in response to exercise. These improvements, in turn, increase left ventricular systolic function and decrease mortality in myocardial infarction rats.2015-10-14T00:00:00ZHypophosphatemic effect of niacin extended release in ischemic kidney diseaseYasmeen, GhazalaDawani, Manohar LalMahboob, Tabassumhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350522016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-10-14T00:00:00ZTitle: Hypophosphatemic effect of niacin extended release in ischemic kidney disease
Authors: Yasmeen, Ghazala; Dawani, Manohar Lal; Mahboob, Tabassum
Abstract: Ischemic nephropathy is an emerging cause of end stage renal disease, associated with many co-morbidities especially cardiovascular disease risk and derangement in calcium-phosphorus homeostasis resulting in hyperphosphatemia, influencing bones, a characteristic of advancing chronic kidney disease. The management of elevated serum phosphorus has been a challenge in this patient population with compromised kidney performance, as available phosphorus lowering agents possess many undesirable hazardous secondary effects and/or are very expensive. While niacin in different formulation is known to not only correct dyslipidemia but also reduce phosphorus level, but its clinical use restricted owing to side effects. The objective of present study is to evaluate such effect of niacin extended release (NER) in ischemic nephropathy. The chronic kidney disease patients fulfilling the pre-defined criteria were randomly categorized into two groups of equal size (n=60) and prescribed either atorvastatin 20 mg/day or NER 500 mg/day with the same dose of statin for four months. A control of 50 healthy characters matched was also incorporated for local reference range. Baseline and follow up phosphorus concentration was measured and means were compared using t-test at SPSS version 17 with 0.05 chosen alpha. There was no difference in the baseline levels in both groups while significant (p<0.001) hyperphosphatemia was observed in both units as compared with healthy controls. The administration of atorvastatin alone for four weeks showed an insignificant decrease in phosphorus, whereas, NER significantly reduced phosphorus (p<0.001). The mean percent change from baseline to follow up further endorsed the finding as statin alone brought -13.8 % reduction in phosphorus and NER -47 % from baseline. NER, at its lowest prescribed dose once a day was well tolerated by most of the patients and demonstrated significant goal achievement of phosphorus reduction. It is concluded that NER even at low doses in renal compromised dyslipidemic patients may be a promising approach to prevent the harmful vascular, valvular effects caused by hyperphosphatemia in addition to its principal target of HDL-C elevation.2015-10-14T00:00:00ZPolymorphism analysis in estrogen receptors alpha and beta genes and their association with infertile population in PakistanLiaqat, SinhaHasnain, ShahidaMuzammil, SaimaHayat, Sumreenhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350512016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-10-08T00:00:00ZTitle: Polymorphism analysis in estrogen receptors alpha and beta genes and their association with infertile population in Pakistan
Authors: Liaqat, Sinha; Hasnain, Shahida; Muzammil, Saima; Hayat, Sumreen
Abstract: Studies on polymorphism of estrogen receptor (ESR) alpha and beta genes have been mostly implicated in infertility, but the results have been controversial due to lack of comprehensive data. The present study focused on association of ESR genes with both male and female infertility. In ESRα, PvuII (rs2234693) and XbaI (rs9340799) were studied while in ESRβ gene, risk of infertility was determined for silent G/A RsaI (rs1256049) polymorphism. Total 124 subjects (74 cases and 50 controls) were part of this study having primary infertility. Restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) was performed with PvuII, XbaI and RsaI to determine polymorphism. Correlation between age and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) of cases and controls was determined and no association was found between infertility and FSH hormone. Heterozygous AG genotype of XbaI polymorphism (P= 2.505e-06) and heterozygous TC genotype (P= 0.00003) in PvuII polymorphism were strongly associated with risk of infertility. In ESRβ gene, there was lack of polymorphism for RsaI in our population as all subjects were homozygous (GG). Haplotype frequencies showed that XbaI and PvuII polymorphisms are in strong linkage disequilibrium. This study shows that in our population XbaI and PvuII polymorphisms of ESRα are associated with risk of infertility.2015-10-08T00:00:00ZSimplest identification, O-specific polysaccharide purification and antigenic evaluation of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi Vi negative isolateSalman, MuhammadAli, AamirJabbar, AbdulSarwar, YasraRahman, MoazurIqbal, MazharHaque, Abdulhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350502016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-10-07T00:00:00ZTitle: Simplest identification, O-specific polysaccharide purification and antigenic evaluation of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi Vi negative isolate
Authors: Salman, Muhammad; Ali, Aamir; Jabbar, Abdul; Sarwar, Yasra; Rahman, Moazur; Iqbal, Mazhar; Haque, Abdul
Abstract: Currently licensed typhoid vaccines are based on Vi capsular polysaccharides. Recent molecular reports from typhoid endemic countries state that Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi (S. Typhi) Vi negative strains occur naturally and cause typhoid fever which is indistinguishable from disease caused by Vi positive strains. Vaccine based on Vi polysaccharide may not protect patients if the invading S. Typhi are negative for Vi. The lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is an essential component of S. Typhi outer membrane in which O-specific polysaccharide (OSP) is a protective antigen and universal candidate for vaccine development. In this study, S. Typhi Vi negative isolates were discriminated from Vi positive isolates through a duplex PCR using primers of fliC-d (599bp) and tviA (495bp) genes. The LPS of S. Typhi Vi negative isolates was extracted by hot phenol method and OSP was purified by core hydrolysis. The yield of extracted LPS was 91 mg/L and that of purified OSP was 49.14 mg/L of culture broth. LPS showed ladder like appearance by zinc imidazole staining following SDSPAGE. Whole cell challenged mice sera were used for in vitro antigenicity evaluation of the purified LPS and OSP. The antigenicity was found adequate by immunodiffusion assay. To our knowledge, this is the first report of purification and antigenic evaluation of LPS of a Vi negative S. Typhi isolate. The purified OSP from S. Typhi Vi negative isolate may be coupled with a carrier protein to produce universal low cost conjugate vaccine candidates for use in typhoid endemic regions.2015-10-07T00:00:00ZStudy on genotoxicity, oxidative stress biomarkers and clinical symptoms in workers of an asbestos-cement factoryAfaghi, AzamOryan, ShahrbanooRahzani, KobraAbdollahi, Mohammadhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350492016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-09-28T00:00:00ZTitle: Study on genotoxicity, oxidative stress biomarkers and clinical symptoms in workers of an asbestos-cement factory
Authors: Afaghi, Azam; Oryan, Shahrbanoo; Rahzani, Kobra; Abdollahi, Mohammad
Abstract: The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether the markers of oxidative stress could be altered in workers exposed to asbestos. A comparative cross-sectional research was conducted in a group of 50 subjects exposed to asbestos and another group of 50 with the same age and sex unexposed to asbestos. Malondialdehyde (MDA), total thiol molecule (TTM), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and DNA damage, were measured in the blood samples of workers and controls. Compared to the control group, the workers showed higher blood levels of DNA damage (P=0.0001) and MDA (P=0.0001). The workers showed lower TTM (P=0.02) as compared with the control group. There was no considerable difference on the level of TAC (P=0.1) between the groups. The workers indicated clinical symptoms such as breathlessness, phlegm, coughing and wheezing. There was a positive correlation between levels of 8-OHdG and MDA of asbestos workers and the smoking status suggesting the negative role of smoking.2015-09-28T00:00:00ZBiochemical and immunological parameters as indicators of osteoarthritis subjects: role of OH-collagen in auto-antibodies generationAshraf, Jalaluddin M.Haque, Quazi S.Tabrez, ShamsChoi, InhoAhmad, Saheemhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350482016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-09-23T00:00:00ZTitle: Biochemical and immunological parameters as indicators of osteoarthritis subjects: role of OH-collagen in auto-antibodies generation
Authors: Ashraf, Jalaluddin M.; Haque, Quazi S.; Tabrez, Shams; Choi, Inho; Ahmad, Saheem
Abstract: Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by inflammation of the knee joint, which is caused by accumulation of cytokines and C-reactive protein (CRP) in the extracellular matrix as an early immune response to infection. The articular cartilage destruction is discernible by elevated tumour necrosis factor-a (TNF-a). In this study, blood samples of knee osteoarthritis patients were analyzed for biochemical and physiological parameters based on the lipid profile, uric acid, total leukocyte count (TLC), hemoglobin percentage (Hb%) and absolute lymphocyte count (ALC). Furthermore, immunological parameters including TNF-a, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and CRP were analyzed. The presence of antibodies against hydroxyl radical modified collagen-II (•OH-collagen-II) was also investigated in arthritis patients using direct binding ELISA. The uric acid and lipid profiles changed extensively. Specifically, increased uric acid levels were associated with OA in both genders, as were enhanced immunological parameters. The TNF-a level also increased in both genders suffering from OA. Finally, auto-antibodies against OH-collagen II antigen were found in the sera of arthritis patients. These results indicated that immunological parameters are better predictors or indexes for diagnosis of OA than biochemical parameters.2015-09-23T00:00:00ZImpact of socioeconomic and environmental factors on atopic eczema and allergic rhinitis: a cross sectional studyTorfi, YasaminBitarafan, NiloofarRajabi, Mehdihttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350472016-07-06T01:40:50Z2015-09-11T00:00:00ZTitle: Impact of socioeconomic and environmental factors on atopic eczema and allergic rhinitis: a cross sectional study
Authors: Torfi, Yasamin; Bitarafan, Niloofar; Rajabi, Mehdi
Abstract: The prevalence of allergic rhinitis and atopic eczema is on the rise in recent decades. Many factors can be related to the development of these diseases. We aimed to investigate the association between socioeconomic status (SES), environmental risk factors and these conditions. In this study, the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) questionnaire was translated and validated. Then it was used to determine the prevalence, severity and possible related factors for both diseases in 1904 schoolchildren aged 6-7 and 13-14 years from various regions of Tehran. The prevalence of rhinitis and eczema in the past year was 33.2 % and 8.2 %, respectively. The prevalence of rhinoconjunctivitis in the past year was 30 %. The risk factors such as birth order, nursery attendance, pet ownership, past allergic experiences as well as some SES factors were associated with both conditions. The prevalence of allergic rhinitis and atopic eczema was on the rise in comparison to the previous studies and SES as well as environmental factors are thought to be associated with the prevalence of these conditions.2015-09-11T00:00:00ZIn vitro production of functional immune cells derived from human hematopoietic stem cellsPayuhakrit, WitchudaPanichakul, TasaneeCharoenphon, NatthawutChalermsaenyakorn, PanusJaovisidha, AdithepWongborisuth, ChokdeeUdomsangpetch, Rachaneehttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350462016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-09-09T00:00:00ZTitle: In vitro production of functional immune cells derived from human hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Payuhakrit, Witchuda; Panichakul, Tasanee; Charoenphon, Natthawut; Chalermsaenyakorn, Panus; Jaovisidha, Adithep; Wongborisuth, Chokdee; Udomsangpetch, Rachanee
Abstract: Hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) from cord blood are potentially high sources for transplantation due to their low immunogenicity and the presence of the multipotent cells. These cells are capable of differentiating to produce various lineages of blood cells under specific conditions. We have enriched highly purified CD34+ cells from cord blood, determined in vitro growth of the cells in culture systems in the absence (condition A) or presence of GM-CSF and G-CSF (condition B), and determined the profile of immune cells during the period of cultivation by using flow cytometry. PhytohemagglutininA (PHA) was used as a mitogen to stimulate T lymphocytes derived from hematopoietic stem cells. GM-CSF and G-CSF prolonged the survival of the growing cells and also maintained expansion of cells in blastic stage. By day 12 of cultivation, when cell numbers peaked, various types of immune cells had appeared (CD14+ cells, CD40+HLA-DR+ cells, CD3+CD56+ cells, CD19+ cells, CD3+CD4+ cells, CD3+CD8+cells and CD3-CD56+). A significantly higher percentage of monocytes (p = 0.002) were observed under culture with GM-CSF, G-CSF when compared with culture without GM-CSF, G-CSF. In addition, T lymphocytes derived from HSC responded to 50 μg/ml of PHA. This is the first report showing the complete differentiation and proliferation of immune cells derived from CD34+ HSC under in vitro culture conditions. Lymphocytes, monocytes, dendritic cells and polymorph nuclear cells derived from HSC in vitro are unique, and thus may benefit various studies such as innate immunity and pathophysiology of immune disorders.2015-09-09T00:00:00ZChemical profile and antioxidant capacity verification of Psidium guajava (Myrtaceae) fruits at different stages of maturationAraújo, Heverton M.Rodrigues, Fabíola F. G.Costa, Wégila D.Nonato, Carla de F. A.Rodrigues, Fábio F. G.Boligon, Aline A.Athayde, Margareth L.Costa, José G. M.http://hdl.handle.net/2003/350452016-07-05T12:55:25Z2015-09-07T00:00:00ZTitle: Chemical profile and antioxidant capacity verification of Psidium guajava (Myrtaceae) fruits at different stages of maturation
Authors: Araújo, Heverton M.; Rodrigues, Fabíola F. G.; Costa, Wégila D.; Nonato, Carla de F. A.; Rodrigues, Fábio F. G.; Boligon, Aline A.; Athayde, Margareth L.; Costa, José G. M.
Abstract: Psidium guajava (Myrtaceae), a common plant in Cariri region, Ceara, Brazil, as well as in various parts of the world, contains high concentrations of bioactive compounds and in many communities its parts are used for therapeutic purposes. Studies describe antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-diarrheal actions from extracts obtained from leaves, but information about the activities of the fruits and comparison of these at different maturity stages (immature, partially mature and mature) are scarce. This study aims to evaluate the antioxidant properties by quantifying the levels of phenolic and flavonoid compounds, carotenoids and vitamin C of P. guajava fruits at different stages of maturation. The content of phenolic compounds for the immature fruit, partially mature and mature were: 22.41; 34.61 and 32.92 mg of AG/g fraction. The flavonoid content for immature fruits, intermediate and mature were: 2.83; 5.10 and 5.65 mg RUT/g fraction, respectively. Following the same standards of maturation stages, the ascorbic acid content was determined with values of 0.48; 0.38 and 0.21 mg AA/g fraction, respectively. HPLC analysis identified and quantified the presence of gallic acid, catechin, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, epicatechin, rutin, quercitrin, isoquercitrin, quercetin, kaempferol, glycosylated campeferol, tocopherol, β-carotene and lycopene. The antioxidant activity carried out by DPPH method showed the mature fruits bearing the best results, whereas chelation of Fe2+ ions showed higher percentage for the immature fruit. The results obtained by lipidic peroxidation were not satisfactory.2015-09-07T00:00:00ZRetinol-binding protein 4 and its potential roles in hypercholesterolemia revealed by proteomicsJugnam-ang, WatcharapongPannengpetch, SupitchaIsarankura-Na-Ayudhya, PatchareeThippakorn, ChadineeIsarankura-Na-Ayudhya, ChartchalermLawung, RatanaPrachayasittikul, Viraponghttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350442016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-08-28T00:00:00ZTitle: Retinol-binding protein 4 and its potential roles in hypercholesterolemia revealed by proteomics
Authors: Jugnam-ang, Watcharapong; Pannengpetch, Supitcha; Isarankura-Na-Ayudhya, Patcharee; Thippakorn, Chadinee; Isarankura-Na-Ayudhya, Chartchalerm; Lawung, Ratana; Prachayasittikul, Virapong
Abstract: Effects of hypercholesterolemia on alterations of serum proteins have not been fully elucidated. Herein, using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) in conjunction with LC-MS searching has successfully been carried out to investigate the change of protein expression profiles as consequences of raised blood cholesterol at different levels (normal group: total cholesterol < 200 mg/dL; borderline high group: total cholesterol 200-239 mg/dL; and high group: total cholesterol ≥ 240 mg/dL) (n = 45). Results revealed that down-regulation of retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) (-2.26 fold), transthyretin (-1.25 fold) and gelsolin (-1.47 fold) was observed in the high group. Meanwhile, the other proteins such as haptoglobin, complement factor B and CD5 antigen-like protein were upregulated upto +3.24, +1.96 and +2.04 fold, respectively. Confirmation by Western blotting revealed a significant reduction of RBP4 (approximately 50 %) in individual samples derived from the high group. Presumptive conclusion can be drawn that down-regulation of RBP4 might be attributable to the inflammation of adipocytes caused by the release of proinflammatory cytokines (e.g. tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin-1β) from adipose tissues. Moreover, the decrease of transthyretin might also be taken into accounts since it is known that the transthyretin usually forms complex with RBP4 to prevent glomerular filtration and excretion through the kidney. The suppressing effect on RBP4 should be potentiated by the increase of complement factor B and CD5 antigen-like protein, which rendered the adipose tissues to overwhelm the liberation of RBP4 to blood circulation by metabolic and inflammatory processes. Such inflammation could further modulate the induction of cytokine release (e.g. IL-6 and IL-1β), resulting in the synthesis of acute phase protein, in particular, haptoglobin and Creactive proteins from hepatocytes. However, the mechanism of gelsolin reduction remains unclear. Among these differentially expressed proteins, the RBP4 has been proposed as a major linkage between hypercholesterolemia, adipose tissues, liver and kidney, which is believed to be a potential biomarker for metabolic and cardiovascular disorders associated with dyslipidemia in the future.2015-08-28T00:00:00ZMulti-criteria optimisation problems for chemical engineering systems and algorithms for their solution based on fuzzy mathematical methodsOrazbayev, B. B.Orazbayeva, K. N.Kurmangaziyeva, L. T.Makhatova, V. E.http://hdl.handle.net/2003/350432016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-08-26T00:00:00ZTitle: Multi-criteria optimisation problems for chemical engineering systems and algorithms for their solution based on fuzzy mathematical methods
Authors: Orazbayev, B. B.; Orazbayeva, K. N.; Kurmangaziyeva, L. T.; Makhatova, V. E.
Abstract: Mathematical equations for the multi-criteria task of the optimisation of chemical engineering systems, for example for the optimisation of working regimes for industrial installations for benzene production, have been formulated and developed, and based on fuzzy mathematical methods, algorithms for their solution have been developed. Since the chemical engineering system, which is being researched, is characterised by multiple criteria and often functions in conditions of uncertainty, the presenting problem is formulated in the form of multicriteria equations for fuzzy mathematical programming. New mathematical formulations for the problems being solved in a fuzzy environment and heuristic algorithms for their solution have been developed by the modification of various optimisation principles based on fuzzy mathematical methods.2015-08-26T00:00:00ZIn vitro evaluation of the comprehensive antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of Curtisia dentata (Burm.f) C.A. Sm: toxicological effect on the human embryonic kidney (HEK293) and human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cell linesFadipe, VOMongalo, NIOpoku, ARhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350422016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-08-24T00:00:00ZTitle: In vitro evaluation of the comprehensive antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of Curtisia dentata (Burm.f) C.A. Sm: toxicological effect on the human embryonic kidney (HEK293) and human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cell lines
Authors: Fadipe, VO; Mongalo, NI; Opoku, AR
Abstract: Curtisia dentata is used in African traditional medicine to treat variety of infections. C. dentata leaves were collected from Buffelskloof Nature Reserve, South Africa. The ethanol, chloroform, ethyl acetate and acetone extracts were evaluated for antimicrobial activity using micro dilution assay against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Mycobacterium smegmatis, Mycoplasma hominis, Candida albicans and some clinical isolates of Moraxella catarrhalis, Proteus mirabilis and Staphylococcus aureus isolated from HIV patient. Acetone extract exhibited lowest MIC of 0.01 mg/ml against Candida albicans compared to other extracts. Besides lupeol, betulinic acid and ursolic acid, β-sitosterol was isolated for the first time from C. dentata leaves and exhibited antimicrobial activity with MIC values ranging from 0.20 to 6.25 mg/ml. Furthermore, the ethanol extract and the four isolated compounds revealed microbicidal effect, with MIC index of less than 4. Ethanol extract revealed the best total activity of 2400 ml/g against Mycoplasma hominis. Cytotoxicity of the isolated compounds was further investigated against the Human embryonic kidney (HEK293) and Human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cell lines using the MTT assay. Ursolic acid exhibited the lowest LD50 of 122.4 μg/ml against HEK293 cell line while lupeol exhibited LD50 of 278.8 and 289.4 μg/ml against HEK293 and HepG2 respectively. Lupeol exhibited low selectivity index. Ethyl acetate and acetone extracts were further investigated for antioxidant activity against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). The acetone extract exhibited potent inhibition of DPPH compared to ethyl acetate extract. The findings of the current work validate the use of the plant species in the treatment of various human infections.2015-08-24T00:00:00ZClassification of P-glycoprotein-interacting compounds using machine learning methodsPrachayasittikul, VedaWorachartcheewan, ApilakShoombuatong, WatsharaPrachayasittikul, VirapongNantasenamat, Chaninhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350412016-07-06T01:40:50Z2015-08-19T00:00:00ZTitle: Classification of P-glycoprotein-interacting compounds using machine learning methods
Authors: Prachayasittikul, Veda; Worachartcheewan, Apilak; Shoombuatong, Watshara; Prachayasittikul, Virapong; Nantasenamat, Chanin
Abstract: P-glycoprotein (Pgp) is a drug transporter that plays important roles in multidrug resistance and drug pharmacokinetics. The inhibition of Pgp has become a notable strategy for combating multidrug-resistant cancers and improving therapeutic outcomes. However, the polyspecific nature of Pgp, together with inconsistent results in experimental assays, renders the determination of endpoints for Pgp-interacting compounds a great challenge. In this study, the classification of a large set of 2,477 Pgp-interacting compounds (i.e., 1341 inhibitors, 913 noninhibitors, 197 substrates and 26 non-substrates) was performed using several machine learning methods (i.e., decision tree induction, artificial neural network modelling and support vector machine) as a function of their physicochemical properties. The models provided good predictive performance, producing MCC values in the range of 0.739-1 for internal cross-validation and 0.665-1 for external validation. The study provided simple and interpretable models for important properties that influence the activity of Pgp-interacting compounds, which are potentially beneficial for screening and rational design of Pgp inhibitors that are of clinical importance.2015-08-19T00:00:00ZSesamol ameliorates hypotension by modulating cytokines and PPAR-gamma in systemic inflammatory responsePeriasamy, SrinivasanChu, Pei-YiLi, Ya-HuiHsu, Dur-ZongLiu, Ming-Yiehttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350402016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-08-13T00:00:00ZTitle: Sesamol ameliorates hypotension by modulating cytokines and PPAR-gamma in systemic inflammatory response
Authors: Periasamy, Srinivasan; Chu, Pei-Yi; Li, Ya-Hui; Hsu, Dur-Zong; Liu, Ming-Yie
Abstract: Sepsis is one of the major causes of death reported in intensive care units. Acute kidney injury (AKI) and hypotension are important in the pathogenesis and mortality of systemic inflammatory response (SIR). Sesamol delays mortality in sepsis; however, its effects on AKI and hypotension and the role of peroxisome proliferatoractivated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) activation have not been established. We investigated the effect of sesamol on SIR in cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced acute kidney injury and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced hypotension in rats. Sesamol was subcutaneously injected 1 h after SIR. Renal function (BUN and CRE) and proinflammatory mediators interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 were increased after CLP. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-1β, IL-10, and nitrite production were significantly increased 6 h after LPS-induced hypotension (mean arterial pressure was significantly decreased). Sesamol significantly inhibited BUN, CRE, IL-1β, IL-6, and nitrite after CLP-induced acute renal injury. In addition, sesamol increased mean arterial pressure and IL-10, inhibited TNF-α and IL-1β, but did not affect nitrite production in LPS-induced hypotension. Sesamol increased PPAR-γ in the leucocytes and peritoneal macrophages in LPS-induced SIR. We conclude that sesamol regulates leucocyte and macrophage PPAR-γ-associated systemic cytokines expression, thereby ameliorates acute kidney injury and hypotension in rats.2015-08-13T00:00:00ZEfficient one-pot synthesis, molecular docking and in silico ADME prediction of bis-(4-hydroxycoumarin-3-yl) methane derivatives as antileishmanial agentsZaheer, ZahidKhan, Firoz A. KalamSangshetti, Jaiprakash N.Patil, Rajendra H.http://hdl.handle.net/2003/350392016-07-06T01:40:50Z2015-08-10T00:00:00ZTitle: Efficient one-pot synthesis, molecular docking and in silico ADME prediction of bis-(4-hydroxycoumarin-3-yl) methane derivatives as antileishmanial agents
Authors: Zaheer, Zahid; Khan, Firoz A. Kalam; Sangshetti, Jaiprakash N.; Patil, Rajendra H.
Abstract: Bis-(4-hydroxycoumarin-3-yl) methane derivatives 3(a-l) were synthesized from 4-hydroxycoumarin and substituted aromatic aldehydes using succinimide-N-sulfonic acid as catalyst and evaluated for their in vitro antileishmanial activity against promastigotes form of Leishmania donovani. Compounds 3a (IC50= 155 μg/mL), 3g (IC50= 157.5 μg/mL) and 3l (IC50= 150 μg/mL) were shown significant antileishmanial activity when compared with standard sodium stibogluconate (IC50= 490 μg/mL). Also, synthesized compounds 3(a-l) did not show cytotoxicity against HeLa cell line upto tested concentrations. Further, molecular docking study against Adenine phosphoribosyltransferase of Leishmania donovani showed good binding interactions. ADME properties were analyzed and showed good oral drug candidate like properties. The synthesized compounds were also shown good drug likeness and drug score values when compared with drugs currently used in therapy. The present study has helped us in identifying a new lead that could be exploited as a potential antileishmanial agent.2015-08-10T00:00:00ZA comparative study of natural immune responses against Plasmodium vivax C-terminal merozoite surface protein-1 (PvMSP-1) and apical membrane antigen-1 (PvAMA-1) in two endemic settingsXia, HuiFang, QiangJangpatarapongsa, KulachartZhiyong, TaoCui, LiwangLi, BaiqingUdomsangpetch, Rachaneehttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350382016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-08-06T00:00:00ZTitle: A comparative study of natural immune responses against Plasmodium vivax C-terminal merozoite surface protein-1 (PvMSP-1) and apical membrane antigen-1 (PvAMA-1) in two endemic settings
Authors: Xia, Hui; Fang, Qiang; Jangpatarapongsa, Kulachart; Zhiyong, Tao; Cui, Liwang; Li, Baiqing; Udomsangpetch, Rachanee
Abstract: The mechanisms of cellular and humoral immune responses against P. vivax parasite remain poorly understood. Several malaria immunological studies have been conducted in endemic regions where both P. falciparum and P. vivax parasites co-exist. In this study, a comparative analysis of immunity to Plasmodium vivax antigens in different geography and incidence of Plasmodium spp. infection was performed. We characterised antibodies against two P. vivax antigens, PvMSP-1 and PvAMA-1, and the cross-reactivity between these antigens using plasma from acute malaria infected patients living in the central region of China and in the western border of Thailand. P. vivax endemicity is found in central China whereas both P. vivax and P. falciparum are endemic in Thailand. There was an increased level of anti-PvMSP-1/anti-PvAMA-1 in both populations. An elevated level of antibodies to total P. vivax proteins and low level of antibodies to total P. falciparum proteins was found in acute P. vivax infected Chinese, suggesting antibody cross-reactivity between the two species. P. vivax infected Thai patients had both anti-P. vivax and anti-P. falciparum antibodies as expected since both species are present in Thailand. More information on humoral and cell mediated immunity during acute P. vivax-infection in the area where only single P. vivax species existed is of great interest in the relation of building up anti-disease severity caused by P. falciparum. This knowledge will support vaccine development in the future.2015-08-06T00:00:00ZThe erratic antibiotic susceptibility patterns of bacterial pathogens causing urinary tract infectionsAhmed, IftkharSajed, MuhammadSultan, AneesaMurtaza, IramYousaf, SohailMaqsood, BushraVanhara, PetrAnees, Mariamhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350372016-07-06T01:40:50Z2015-08-04T00:00:00ZTitle: The erratic antibiotic susceptibility patterns of bacterial pathogens causing urinary tract infections
Authors: Ahmed, Iftkhar; Sajed, Muhammad; Sultan, Aneesa; Murtaza, Iram; Yousaf, Sohail; Maqsood, Bushra; Vanhara, Petr; Anees, Mariam
Abstract: Increasing trend of antibiotic resistance and expression of Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamases (ESBLs) are serious threats for public health as they render the treatment ineffective. Present study was designed to elucidate the antibiotic-susceptibility patterns of ESBL and non-ESBL producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae causing urinary tract infections so that the ineffective antibiotics could be removed from the line of treatment. The bacterial isolates obtained from the urine of patients visiting a tertiary health care facility were cultured for strain identification using API20E. Antimicrobial susceptibility and ESBL detection were done by Kirby-bauer diffusion technique. Almost 53.4 % isolates of E. coli and 24.5 % isolates of K. pneumoniae were found to be ESBL producers. The ESBL producing bacteria were found to be more resistant towards various antibiotics. The most effective drugs against E. coli ESBL isolates were imipenem (99.54 %), ampicillin-sulbactam (97.48 %), piperacillin-tazobactam (96.86 %), fosfomycin (94.51 %), amikacin (92.26 %) and nitrofurantoin (90.68 %). The most effective drugs against K. pneumoniae ESBL isolates were imipenem (97.62 %), piperacillin-tazobactam (95.35 %), ampicillin-sulbactam (90.48 %) and amikacin (88.37 %). The antibiotics having the highest resistance, particularly by the ESBL producers were amoxicillin clavulanic acid, sulphamethoxalzole/ trimethoprim, cefuroxime, cefpirome, ceftriaxone and ciprofloxacin. Most of the isolates showed multi drug resistance (MDR). High frequency of ESBL producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae were observed as compared to previous data. Penicillins, cephalosporins and some representatives of fluoroquinolones were least effective against the common UTIs and are recommended to be removed from the line of treatment.2015-08-04T00:00:00ZAnti-atherogenic potential of jujube, saffron and barberry: anti-diabetic and antioxidant actionsHemmati, MinaZohoori, ElhamMehrpour, OmidKaramian, MehdiAsghari, SomayeZarban, AsgharNasouti, Royahttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350262016-08-30T11:16:00Z2015-08-04T00:00:00ZTitle: Anti-atherogenic potential of jujube, saffron and barberry: anti-diabetic and antioxidant actions
Authors: Hemmati, Mina; Zohoori, Elham; Mehrpour, Omid; Karamian, Mehdi; Asghari, Somaye; Zarban, Asghar; Nasouti, Roya
Abstract: Atherogenic dyslipidemia, characterized by an increased level of lipoprotein (a) and a decreased level of adiponectin, is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases in diabetic patients. To reduce cardiovascular risk in diabetic patients, use of agents with antidiabetic and anti-atherogenic potential is required. Using an animal model of diabetes, we investigated the antiatherogenic potential of extracts of three medicinal plants: jujube, barberry, and saffron. For this, serum level of fasting blood glucose, lipid profile, malondialdehyde, total antioxidant capacity, adiponectin and lipoprotein (a) in diabetic control and extract treated groups were measured. Statistical analysis of measurements showed that serum levels of fasting blood glucose, triglyceride, and VLDL decreased significantly (P < 0.05) in all treated groups. Treatment with all extracts reduced lipid peroxidation and increased antioxidant capacity of the experimental diabetic groups. Serum adiponectin levels increased in all treated groups, whereas lipoprotein (a) levels decreased, most markedly when treated with jujube extract. Jujube, saffron, and barberry extracts are beneficial in ameliorating oxidative stress and atherogenic risk of diabetic rats. This highlights the benefits of further investigating the cardio-protective potential of medicinal plant extracts and evaluating their usefulness as cardio protective agents in clinical practice.2015-08-04T00:00:00ZTrans-1,3-diphenyl-2,3-epoxypropan-1-one, a chalcone derivative, induces apoptosis via ROS-mediated down-regulation of Bcl-xL in human leukemia HL-60 cellsKo, Eun-YiLee, Seung-HongKo, Ji-YeonMoon, Jeong YongYoon, Weon-JongAhn, GinnaeRoh, Seong WoonCho, KichulJeon, You-JinKim, DaekyungKim, Kil-Namhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350252016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-08-03T00:00:00ZTitle: Trans-1,3-diphenyl-2,3-epoxypropan-1-one, a chalcone derivative, induces apoptosis via ROS-mediated down-regulation of Bcl-xL in human leukemia HL-60 cells
Authors: Ko, Eun-Yi; Lee, Seung-Hong; Ko, Ji-Yeon; Moon, Jeong Yong; Yoon, Weon-Jong; Ahn, Ginnae; Roh, Seong Woon; Cho, Kichul; Jeon, You-Jin; Kim, Daekyung; Kim, Kil-Nam
Abstract: The anticancer effects of trans-1,3-diphenyl-2,3-epoxypropan-1-one (DPEP), a chalcone derivative, were investigated in human leukemia HL-60 cells. Treatment of HL-60 cells with various concentration of DPEP resulted in a sequence of events characteristic of apoptosis, including loss of cell viability, morphological changes, and increased sub-G1 DNA content. We demonstrated that DPEP elevates reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in HL-60 cells, and that the ROS scavenger N-acetylcysteine (NAC) could block DPEP-induced ROS generation and apoptosis. Western blot analysis revealed that DPEP inhibits Bcl-xL expression, leading to caspase-3 activation and poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) cleavage, thereby inducing apoptosis. However, NAC pretreatment significantly inhibited the activation of caspase-3 and PARP cleavage and reduced Bcl-xL levels. These findings provide the first evidence that DPEP may inhibit the growth of HL-60 cells and induce apoptosis through a ROS-mediated Bcl-xL pathway.2015-08-03T00:00:00ZGenotoxic effects of boric acid and borax in zebrafish, Danio rerio using alkaline comet assayGülsoy, NagihanYavaş, CüneydMutlu, Özalhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350242016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-07-30T00:00:00ZTitle: Genotoxic effects of boric acid and borax in zebrafish, Danio rerio using alkaline comet assay
Authors: Gülsoy, Nagihan; Yavaş, Cüneyd; Mutlu, Özal
Abstract: The present study is conducted to determine the potential mechanisms of Boron compounds, boric acid (BA) and borax (BX), on genotoxicity of zebrafish Danio rerio for 24, 48, 72 and 96-hours acute exposure (level:1, 4, 16, 64 mg/l BA and BX) in semi-static bioassay experiment. For that purpose, peripheral erythrocytes were drawn from caudal vein and Comet assay was applied to assess genotoxicity. Acute (96 hours) exposure and high concentrations of boric acid and borax increases % tail DNA and Olive tail moment. Genotoxicity was found for BA as concentration-dependent and BX as concentration and time dependent manner. In general, significant effects (P < 0,05) on both concentrations and exposure times were observed in experimental groups. DNA damage was highest at 96 h and 24 h for all BX and BA concentrations, respectively in peripheral blood of D. rerio. For the first time, our study demonstrates the effect of waterborne BA and BX exposure on genotoxicity at the molecular level, which may contribute to understanding the mechanism of boric acid and borax-induced genotoxicity in fish.2015-07-30T00:00:00ZUltrasonic-assisted enzymatic extraction of silymarin from the Silybum marianum seed shell and evaluation of its antioxidant activity in vitroZhao, FeiLi, XinHuahttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350232016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-07-27T00:00:00ZTitle: Ultrasonic-assisted enzymatic extraction of silymarin from the Silybum marianum seed shell and evaluation of its antioxidant activity in vitro
Authors: Zhao, Fei; Li, XinHua
Abstract: This study revealed the optimal conditions for the Ultrasonic-Assisted Enzymatic Extraction (UAEE) of silymarin, and include: the concentration of ethanol, 50 %; enzyme concentration, 30 U/mg; liquid-solid ratio, 6:1; an extraction time of 120 min; and the ultrasonic power at 180 W. The extraction rate was 7.86 %, which is higher, by 74.67 %, than that of the silymarin extract from the Silybum marianum meal prepared by a distinct approach. SEM micrographs of the inner and outer surfaces of the Silybum marianum shell obtained by variant extractions demonstrated that the extraction of silymarin required the destruction of cell walls. The results suggest that UAEE is a promising alternative for the extraction of silymarin. The antioxidant activities of the silymarin were evaluated in vitro by its capabilities to scavenger the DPPH, hydroxyl and superoxide free radicals, as well as by its tyrosinase inhibitory activity. The results showed that silymarin has significant antioxidant activity, thus it can be used as a functional food material against oxidative stress. We believe that the knowledge gained from this study should contribute to the further development and application of this resource.2015-07-27T00:00:00ZDevelopment and characterization of a new human hepatic cell lineRamboer, EvaDe Craene, BramDe Kock, JoeyBerx, GeertRogiers, VeraVanhaecke, TamaraVinken, Mathieuhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350222016-07-06T01:40:50Z2015-07-28T00:00:00ZTitle: Development and characterization of a new human hepatic cell line
Authors: Ramboer, Eva; De Craene, Bram; De Kock, Joey; Berx, Geert; Rogiers, Vera; Vanhaecke, Tamara; Vinken, Mathieu
Abstract: The increasing demand and hampered use of primary human hepatocytes for research purposes have urged scientists to search for alternative cell sources, such as immortalized hepatic cell lines. The aim of this study was to develop a human hepatic cell line using the combined overexpression of TERT and the cell cycle regulators cyclin D1 and mutant isoform CDK4R24C. Following transduction of adult human primary hepatocytes with the selected immortalization genes, cell growth was triggered and a cell line was established. When cultured under appropriate conditions, the cell line expressed several hepatocytic markers and liver-enriched transcription factors at the transcriptional and/or translational level, secreted liver-specific proteins and showed glycogen deposition. These results suggest that the immortalization strategy applied to primary human hepatocytes could generate a novel hepatic cell line that seems to retain some key hepatic characteristics.2015-07-28T00:00:00ZCytocompatibility of a conductive nanofibrous carbon nanotube/poly(L-lactic acid) composite scaffold intended for nerve tissue engineeringKabiri, MahboubehOraee-Yazdani, SaeedDodel, MasumehHanaee-Ahvaz, HanaSoudi, SaraSeyedjafari, EhsanSalehi, MohammadSoleimani, Masoudhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350212016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-07-27T00:00:00ZTitle: Cytocompatibility of a conductive nanofibrous carbon nanotube/poly(L-lactic acid) composite scaffold intended for nerve tissue engineering
Authors: Kabiri, Mahboubeh; Oraee-Yazdani, Saeed; Dodel, Masumeh; Hanaee-Ahvaz, Hana; Soudi, Sara; Seyedjafari, Ehsan; Salehi, Mohammad; Soleimani, Masoud
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to fabricate a conductive aligned nanofibrous substrate and evaluate its suitability and cytocompatibility with neural cells for nerve tissue engineering purposes. In order to reach these goals, we first used electrospinning to fabricate single-walled carbon-nanotube (SWCNT) incorporated poly(L-Lactic acid) (PLLA) nanofibrous scaffolds and then assessed its cytocompatibility with olfactory ensheathing glial cells (OEC). The plasma treated scaffolds were characterized using scanning electron microscopy and water contact angle. OECs were isolated from olfactory bulb of GFP Sprague-Dawley rats and characterized using OEC specific markers via immunocytochemistry and flow cytometery. The cytocompatibility of the conductive aligned nano-featured scaffold was assessed using microscopy and MTT assay. We indicate that doping of PLLA polymer with SWCNT can augment the aligned nanosized substrate with conductivity, making it favorable for nerve tissue engineering. Our results demonstrated that SWCNT/PLLA composite scaffold promote the adhesion, growth, survival and proliferation of OEC. Regarding the ideal physical, topographical and electrical properties of the scaffold and the neurotrophic and migratory features of the OECs, we suggest this scaffold and the cell/scaffold construct as a promising platform for cell delivery to neural defects in nerve tissue engineering approaches.2015-07-27T00:00:00ZEquivalence and practice effect of alternate forms for Malay version of Auditory Verbal Learning Test (MAVLT)Munjir, NorulsuhadaOthman, ZahiruddinZakaria, RahimahShafin, NazlahshanizaHussain, Noor AiniDesa, Anisah MatAhmad, Asma Hayatihttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350202016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-07-07T00:00:00ZTitle: Equivalence and practice effect of alternate forms for Malay version of Auditory Verbal Learning Test (MAVLT)
Authors: Munjir, Norulsuhada; Othman, Zahiruddin; Zakaria, Rahimah; Shafin, Nazlahshaniza; Hussain, Noor Aini; Desa, Anisah Mat; Ahmad, Asma Hayati
Abstract: This study aims to develop two alternate forms for Malay version of Auditory Verbal Learning Test (MAVLT) and to determine their equivalency and practice effect. Ninety healthy volunteers were subjected to the following neuropsychological tests at baseline, and at one month interval according to their assigned group; group 1 (MAVLT - MAVLT), group 2 (MAVLT – Alternate Form 1 - Alternate Form 1), and group 3 (MAVLT - Alternate Form 2 - Alternate Form 2). There were no significant difference in the mean score of all the trials at baseline among the three groups, and most of the mean score of trials between MAVLT and Alternate Form 1, and between MAVLT and Alternate Form 2. There was significant improvement in the mean score of each trial when the same form was used repeatedly at the interval of one month. However, there was no significant improvement in the mean score of each trial when the Alternate Form 2 was used during repeated neuropsychological testing. The MAVLT is a reliable instrument for repeated neuropsychological testing as long as alternate forms are used. The Alternate Form 2 showed better equivalency to MAVLT and less practice effects.2015-07-07T00:00:00ZAntihypercholesterolemic effect of Cleome arabica L on high cholesterol diet induced damage in ratsSamout, NouraBouzenna, HafsiaEttaya, AmaniElfeki, AbdelfattahHfaiedh, Najlahttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350102016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-07-06T00:00:00ZTitle: Antihypercholesterolemic effect of Cleome arabica L on high cholesterol diet induced damage in rats
Authors: Samout, Noura; Bouzenna, Hafsia; Ettaya, Amani; Elfeki, Abdelfattah; Hfaiedh, Najla
Abstract: Dietary cholesterol is known to be one of the main risk factors that accelerate oxidation process leading to hypercholesterolemia and attendant cardiovascular diseases. The purpose of this study, carried out on adult male Wistar rats, was to evaluate the inhibitory effects of supplementation with aqueous of Cleome arabica leaf extract on hypercholesterolemia. After 3 months of treatment, animals were sacrificed by decapitation. Blood serum was obtained by centrifugation. Under our experimental conditions, administration of Cleome arabica leaf extract decreased the total cholesterol (TC), LDL-cholesterol (LDL-chol) and triglycerides (TG) levels by 27 %, 52 %, 37 %, respectively, and reduced SGOT, SGPT, LDH and PAL levels in blood serum compared to untreated hypercholesterolemic rats. TBARS concentrations decreased by 21 % in liver, 22 % in heart and 30 % in kidney in a group of rats treated with cholesterol and Cleome arabica (Chol C.ar) compared to a Chol-treated group. The same treatment with Cleome arabica leaf extract increased superoxide dismutase and enhanced glutathione peroxidase activity. Catalase activity was found to increase in liver, heart and kidney by 17 %, 16 % and 23 %, respectively, in the C.ar Chol-treated group. The protective effect of Cleome arabica on hypercholesterolemia inducing oxidative stress in several organs was mainly attributed to antioxidant properties. The latter were due to the presence of phenolic acids and flavonoids shown by the obtained HPLC profiles.2015-07-06T00:00:00ZEfficacy of Caltropis procera and Ficus sycomorus extracts in treating MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus)-keratitis in rabbitSayed, Waiel F.Salem, Wesam M. A.Haridy, Mohie A. M.Hassan, Ne’mat H.http://hdl.handle.net/2003/350092016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-06-16T00:00:00ZTitle: Efficacy of Caltropis procera and Ficus sycomorus extracts in treating MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus)-keratitis in rabbit
Authors: Sayed, Waiel F.; Salem, Wesam M. A.; Haridy, Mohie A. M.; Hassan, Ne’mat H.
Abstract: MRSA-induced keratitis in rabbit was used to evaluate the therapeutic effect of F. sycomorus leaves and C. procera latex extracts. Within the 6 rabbit groups tested, group 1 received sterilized saline, while other groups (2 to 6) received 100 μl of intrastromal injections of 1.5×103 colony forming unit (cfu) ml-1 of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). After 12 hours, groups 3 to 6 also received chloramphenicol, aqueous extract of C. procera latex, aqueous and alcoholic extracts of F. sycomorus leaves, respectively 3 times daily for 12 successive days. The tested extracts inhibited MRSA growth in vitro (i.e. on culture medium). Colony counts in cornea discs from groups 3 to 6 were significantly reduced (P ≤ 0.001) compared to group 2 (untreated). Clinical signs of keratitis were observed on group 2 until the end of experiment. In groups 3 to 6, gradual recovery was observed and signs disappeared by the 12th DPI (days post inoculation). Only mild symptoms persisted in group 5 (aqueous extract of leaves). In group 3 and 5, cornea, iris, ciliary body and conjunctiva showed mild leukocytic infiltration and depigmentation of melanin cells while recovery of cornea and iris was observed in groups 4 and 6. In conclusion, the used extracts have potential therapeutic effects on MRSA-induced keratitis in rabbit.2015-06-16T00:00:00ZShort-interference RNAs: becoming medicinesMartínez, TamaraJiménez, Ana IsabelPañeda, Covadongahttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350082016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-06-15T00:00:00ZTitle: Short-interference RNAs: becoming medicines
Authors: Martínez, Tamara; Jiménez, Ana Isabel; Pañeda, Covadonga
Abstract: RNA interference is a cellular mechanism by which small molecules of double stranded RNA modulate gene expression acting on the concentration and/or availability of a given messenger RNA. Almost 10 years after Fire and Mello received the Nobel Prize for the discovery of this mechanism in flat worms, RNA interference is on the edge of becoming a new class of therapeutics. With various phase III studies underway, the following years will determine whether RNAi-therapeutics can rise up to the challenge and become mainstream medicines. The present review gives a thorough overview of the current status of this technology focusing on the path to the clinic of this new class of compounds.2015-06-15T00:00:00ZAnti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antitumor activities of ingredients of Curcuma phaeocaulis ValHou, YanLu, Chuan-LiZeng, Qiao-HuiJiang, Jian-Guohttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350072016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-06-12T00:00:00ZTitle: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antitumor activities of ingredients of Curcuma phaeocaulis Val
Authors: Hou, Yan; Lu, Chuan-Li; Zeng, Qiao-Hui; Jiang, Jian-Guo
Abstract: Curcuma phaeocaulis Val. is used in Chinese Pharmacopoeia as health food and folk medicine for removing blood stasis, alleviating pain and tumor therapy. This research was aimed to explore and compare three main bioactivities including anti-oxidant, antitumor and anti-inflammatory activities between the ethanol extract of C. Phaeocaulis and its fractions using different in vitro models. Firstly, 70 % ethanol was used to extract C. Phaeocaulis, and then the crude extract was re-extracted, resulting in petroleum ether (EZ-PE), ethyl acetate (EZ-EA), and water fractions (EZ-W), respectively, and then a series of index was detected. Results showed that all the extracts had medium DPPH radical scavenging activity when the concentration was 200 μg/ml and their DPPH radical scavenging activity was in a concentration-dependent manner. The extracts except ethanol extract of C. Phaeocaulis had almost no cytotoxicity to the survival of RAW264.7 cell when the concentration reached 80 μg/ml, and all of them had medium inhibitory effect on nitrite release. Extracts of C. Phaeocaulis had medium intensity antitumor activity, EZ-PE and EZ-EA fractions significantly inhibited the proliferation of four tumor cells (SMMC-7721 cell lines, HepG-2 cell lines, A549 cell lines and Hela cell lines). C. Phaeocaulis had antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which did not carry out centralized phenomenon when re-extracted. EZ-PE and EZ-EA were active antitumor sites of C. Phaeocaulis.2015-06-12T00:00:00ZMolecular detection of antimicrobial resistance in local isolates of Staphylococcus epidermidis from urinary tract infections in Faisalabad region of PakistanFarid, AnamNaz, IramAshraf, AsmaAli, AamirRehman, Asad-urSarwar, YasraHaque, Abdulhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350062016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-06-08T00:00:00ZTitle: Molecular detection of antimicrobial resistance in local isolates of Staphylococcus epidermidis from urinary tract infections in Faisalabad region of Pakistan
Authors: Farid, Anam; Naz, Iram; Ashraf, Asma; Ali, Aamir; Rehman, Asad-ur; Sarwar, Yasra; Haque, Abdul
Abstract: Staphylococci are one of the foremost causes of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in humans. The emergence of multiple drug resistance (MDR) among Staphylococci poses serious challenges in antimicrobial therapy for UTIs. Most work has been done on S. aureus while coagulase negative Staphylococci (mainly S. epidermidis) are often neglected. This study was conducted to establish a baseline profile of drug resistance in local S. epidermidis isolates from UTIs. Eighty urine samples were collected from suspected UTIs cases and screened for S. epidermidis. Twenty isolates were suspected as S. epidermidis based on colony morphology and Gram staining. Molecular detection by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) confirmed 13 isolates as S. epidermidis. Using disc diffusion method, phenotypic drug resistance of the isolates was observed towards erythromycin (100 %), gentamycin, azithromycin and tetracycline (92.3 %), ampicillin and oxytetracyclin (84.6 %), amikacin and srteptomycin (76.9 %), methicillin (69.2 %), cephradine, cefaclor and cefazolin (53.8 %) and vancomycin (15.3 %). Eighteen most commonly reported genes responsible for conferring resistance towards these drugs were targeted by PCR: among these tetM gene was found most prevalent (46.1 %) followed by tetK (30.7 %), aac(6’)/aph(2”) (30.7 %), aacA-aphD (23 %), ermA (23 %), blaZ (23 %), mecA (23 %) blaTEM-1 (23 %), MeccA (23 %) and mecA (15.3 %). No gene fragment for vancomycin resistance was detected. The salient finding was that all S. epidermidis isolates were multiple drugs resistant as they showed resistance against at least three structurally different antimicrobial agents. It is concluded that in addition to the mostly used antimicrobial agent vancomycin, the cephalosporins including cephradine, cefaclor and cefazolin are also the drugs of choice against UTIs caused by S. epidermidis.2015-06-08T00:00:00ZSleep deprivation-induced multi-organ injury: role of oxidative stress and inflammationPeriasamy, SrinivasanHsu, Dur-ZongFu, Yu-HsuanLiu, Ming-Yiehttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350052016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-05-18T00:00:00ZTitle: Sleep deprivation-induced multi-organ injury: role of oxidative stress and inflammation
Authors: Periasamy, Srinivasan; Hsu, Dur-Zong; Fu, Yu-Hsuan; Liu, Ming-Yie
Abstract: Sleep deprivation affects all aspects of health. Adverse health effects by sleep deviation are still underestimated and undervalued in clinical practice and, to a much greater extent in monitoring human health. We hypothesized that sleep deprivation-induced mild organ injuries; oxidative stress and inflammation might play a crucial role in inducing multi-organ injury. Male C57BL/6J mice (n = 6-7) were sleep-deprived for 0-72 h using a modified multiple platform boxes method. Blood and tissue were collected. Liver, heart, kidney, lung, and pancreatic injuries were evaluated using biochemical and histological analyses. Glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT), glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT), total billirubin (TBIL), creatine phosphokinase (CPK), creatine phosphokinase-myocardial band (CKMB), lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), creatinine (CRE), and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were assayed in blood. Malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-ɑ, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6 levels were measured. Histology revealed mild-to-moderate liver and lung injury in sleep-deprived mice. Sleep-deprived mice had significantly higher GOT, GPT, TBIL, CPK, CKMB, LDH, BUN, and ɑ-amylase (AMYL) levels, which indicated liver, heart, kidney, and pancreatic injuries. Serum IL-1β at 24 h and IL-6 at 72 h were significantly higher in sleep-deprived than in control mice. Hepatic TNF-ɑ and IL-1β were significantly higher, but IL-6 significantly lower in mice that had been sleep-deprived for 72 h. Sleep deprivation-mediated inflammation may be associated with mild to moderate multi-organ damage in mice. The implication of this study indicates sleep deprivation in humans may induce multi-organ injury that negatively affects cardiovascular and gastrointestinal health.2015-05-18T00:00:00ZProtective role of taurine in developing offspring affected by maternal alcohol consumptionAnanchaipatana-Auitragoon, PilantAnanchaipatana-Auitragoon, YutthanaSiripornpanich, VorasithKotchabhakdi, Naiphinichhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350042016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-05-18T00:00:00ZTitle: Protective role of taurine in developing offspring affected by maternal alcohol consumption
Authors: Ananchaipatana-Auitragoon, Pilant; Ananchaipatana-Auitragoon, Yutthana; Siripornpanich, Vorasith; Kotchabhakdi, Naiphinich
Abstract: Maternal alcohol consumption is known to affect offspring growth and development, including growth deficits, physical anomalies, impaired brain functions and behavioral disturbances. Taurine, a sulfur-containing amino acid, is essential during development, and continually found to be protective against neurotoxicity and various tissue damages including those from alcohol exposure. However, it is still unknown whether taurine can exert its protection during development of central nervous system and whether it can reverse alcohol damages on developed brain later in life. This study aims to investigate protective roles of taurine against maternal alcohol consumption on growth and development of offspring. The experimental protocol was conducted using ICR-outbred pregnant mice given 10 % alcohol, with or without maternal taurine supplementation during gestation and lactation. Pregnancy outcomes, offspring mortality and successive bodyweight until adult were monitored. Adult offspring is supplemented taurine to verify its ability to reverse damages on learning and memory through a water maze task performance. Our results demonstrate that offspring of maternal alcohol exposure, together with maternal taurine supplementation show conserved learning and memory, while that of offspring treated taurine later in life are disturbed. Taurine provides neuroprotective effects and preserves learning and memory processes when given together with maternal alcohol consumption, but not shown such effects when given exclusively in offspring.2015-05-18T00:00:00ZThe effect of BLA GABAA receptors in anxiolytic-like effect and aversive memory deficit induced by ACPAKangarlu-Haghighi, KatayoonOryan, ShahrbanooNasehi, MohammadZarrindast, Mohammad-Rezahttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350032016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-05-11T00:00:00ZTitle: The effect of BLA GABAA receptors in anxiolytic-like effect and aversive memory deficit induced by ACPA
Authors: Kangarlu-Haghighi, Katayoon; Oryan, Shahrbanoo; Nasehi, Mohammad; Zarrindast, Mohammad-Reza
Abstract: The roles of GABAergic receptors of the Basolateral amygdala (BLA) in the cannabinoid CB1 receptor agonist (arachydonilcyclopropylamide; ACPA)-induced anxiolytic-like effect and aversive memory deficit in adult male mice were examined in elevated plus-maze task. Results showed that pre-test intra-peritoneal injection of ACPA induced anxiolytic-like effect (at dose of 0.05 mg/kg) and aversive memory deficit (at doses of 0.025 and 0.05 mg/kg). The results revealed that Pre-test intra-BLA infusion of muscimol (GABAA receptor agonist; at doses of 0.1 and 0.2 µg/mouse) or bicuculline (GABAA receptor antagonist; at all doses) impaired and did not alter aversive memory, respectively. All previous GABA agents did not have any effects on anxiety-like behaviors. Interestingly, pretreatment with a sub-threshold dose of muscimol (0.025 µg/mouse) and bicuculline (0.025 µg/mouse) did not alter anxiolytic-like behaviors induced by ACPA, while both drugs restored ACPA-induced amnesia. Moreover, muscimol or bicuculline increased and decreased ACPA-induced locomotor activity, respectively. Finally the data may indicate that BLA GABAA receptors have critical and different roles in anxiolytic-like effect, aversive memory deficit and locomotor activity induced by ACPA.2015-05-11T00:00:00ZmicroRNA-15b target Sall4 and diminish in vitro UCB-derived HSCs expansionAkhavan Rahnama, MahshidMovassaghpour, Ali AkbarSoleimani, MasoudAtashi, AmirAnbarlou, AzadehShams Asenjan, Karimhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350022016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-05-08T00:00:00ZTitle: microRNA-15b target Sall4 and diminish in vitro UCB-derived HSCs expansion
Authors: Akhavan Rahnama, Mahshid; Movassaghpour, Ali Akbar; Soleimani, Masoud; Atashi, Amir; Anbarlou, Azadeh; Shams Asenjan, Karim
Abstract: Hematopoietic Stem Cells (HSCs) are cells that have the ability to self-renewal and differentiate into all of hematopoietic lineages. The lack of donors and unavailable efficient protocols for ex vivo expansion of HSCs, are obstacles in successful cell therapies. MicroRNAs (also refer as miRNAs or miRs) have significant roles in hematopoiesis; they can effect on HSCs expansion, maintaining undifferentiated state, self-renewal and differentiation. Recently attentions have been given to these small regulatory molecules to utilize them in order to expand HSCs. Using bioinformatics analysis we identified Sall4 as putative target of miR-15b and miR-219-5p. Relative expression levels of miRNAs and Sall4 were evaluated by qRT-PCR. Here we show 247-fold and 4.2-fold increasing Sall4 expression level compared to control group in CD34+ cells nucleofected by anti-miR-15b and anti-miR-219-5p, respectively. These data showed that anti-miR-15b can promote clonogenic capacity of HSCs and also we found that miR-15b alone was able to increase the number of CD34+HSCs in vitro by more than 2 fold by targeting Sall4. Moreover, level of CD34 marker in HSCs nucleofected by anti-miR-15b increased more than 50 %. Our analysis showed no statistically difference in mRNA level of Sall4 after nucleofection of anti-miR-219-5p. Sall4 is a factor capable of enhancing HSC expansion significantly. We demonstrated that inhibition of miR-15b can enhance ex vivo expansion of UCB-derived HSCs and also expression of Sall4 allowed expansion and preserve self- renewal of CD34+ HSCs.2015-05-08T00:00:00ZEffects of Trichostatin A on drug uptake transporters in primary rat hepatocyte culturesRamboer, EvaRogiers, VeraVanhaecke, TamaraVinken, Mathieuhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350012016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-05-05T00:00:00ZTitle: Effects of Trichostatin A on drug uptake transporters in primary rat hepatocyte cultures
Authors: Ramboer, Eva; Rogiers, Vera; Vanhaecke, Tamara; Vinken, Mathieu
Abstract: The present study was set up to investigate the effects of Trichostatin A (TSA), a prototypical epigenetic modifier, on the expression and activity of hepatic drug uptake transporters in primary cultured rat hepatocytes. To this end, the expression of the sinusoidal transporters sodium-dependent taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (Ntcp) and organic anion transporting polypeptide 4 (Oatp4) was monitored by real-time quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction analysis and immunoblotting. The activity of the uptake transporters was analyzed using radiolabeled substrates and chemical inhibitors. Downregulation of the expression and activity of Oatp4 and Ntcp was observed as a function of the cultivation time and could not be counteracted by TSA. In conclusion, the epigenetic modifier TSA does not seem to exert a positive effect on the expression and activity of the investigated uptake transporters in primary rat hepatocyte cultures.2015-05-05T00:00:00ZApoptotic potential of C-phycoerythrin from Phormidium sp. A27DM and Halomicronema sp. A32DM on human lung carcinoma cellsApoptotic potential of C-phycoerythrin from Phormidium sp. A27DM and Halomicronema sp. A32DM on human lung carcinoma cellsMadamwar, DattaPatel, Dipak KDesai, Swati NUpadhyay, Kapil KDevkar, Ranjitsinh Vhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/350002017-07-14T12:18:14Z2015-04-10T00:00:00ZTitle: Apoptotic potential of C-phycoerythrin from Phormidium sp. A27DM and Halomicronema sp. A32DM on human lung carcinoma cellsApoptotic potential of C-phycoerythrin from Phormidium sp. A27DM and Halomicronema sp. A32DM on human lung carcinoma cells
Authors: Madamwar, Datta; Patel, Dipak K; Desai, Swati N; Upadhyay, Kapil K; Devkar, Ranjitsinh V
Abstract: Phycobilisomes present in cyanobacteria are photosynthetic macromolecular protein complexes that are categorized into three types - phycoerythrins (high energy), phycocyanin (intermediate energy) and allophycocyanin (low energy). Structurally, they consist of α and β protein subunits and open chain tetrapyrrole prosthetic group (bilin chromophore), known for its antioxidant properties and therapeutic potential against a variety of physiological ailments. Phycoerythrins (C-PE) were purified from cyanobacterial strains Phormidium sp. A27DM and Halomicronema sp. A32DM and their respective apoptotic potentials were assessed on A549 human lung carcinoma cells. Both strains of cyanobacteria were cultured and the C-PE from each strain was extracted, quantified and characterized. C-PE accounted for a dose dependent decrement in cell viability, mitochondrial membrane potential and an increment in lactate dehydrogenase release. Higher doses of C-PE (of both strains) accounted for loss of cell viability and nuclear pycnosis. These findings were further substantiated with flow cytometry that revealed a cell arrest at G0/G1 phase and a high percentage of cells undergoing apoptosis following C-PE treatment. These results confirm the efficacy of C-PE from Phormidium sp. or Halomicronema sp. in triggering apoptotic cell death. This study is the first to report on apoptotic property of C-PE against A549 human lung carcinoma cells and warrants further studies to establish its anti-cancer potential.2015-04-10T00:00:00ZSerial measurement of lipid profile and inflammatory markers in patients with acute myocardial infarctionShrivastava, Amit KumarSingh, Harsh VardhanRaizada, ArunSingh, Sanjeev Kumarhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349992016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-04-10T00:00:00ZTitle: Serial measurement of lipid profile and inflammatory markers in patients with acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Shrivastava, Amit Kumar; Singh, Harsh Vardhan; Raizada, Arun; Singh, Sanjeev Kumar
Abstract: Serum concentration of lipids and lipoproteins changes during the course of acute coronary syndrome as a consequence of the inflammatory response. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) on the levels of lipid profile and inflammatory markers. We investigated 400 patients with AMI who were admitted within 24 h of onset of symptoms. Serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low density lipoprotein (LDL) and high density lipoprotein (HDL) were determined by standard enzymatic methods along with high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (latex enhanced immunoturbidimetric assay) and cytokines, interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-10 (quantitative ‘‘sandwich’’ enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). The results indicate a trend of reduced TC, LDL, and HDL, and elevated TG levels, along with pro- and anti-inflammatory markers (p < 0.001), between day 1 and the day 2 serum samples of AMI patients. However, corrections in the serum levels have been observed at day 7. Our results demonstrate significant variations in the mean lipid levels and inflammatory markers between days 1, 2 and 7 after AMI. Therefore, it is recommended that the serum lipids should be assessed within 24 hours after infarction. Early treatment of hyperlipidemia provides potential benefits. Exact knowledge regarding baseline serum lipids and lipoprotein levels as well as their varying characteristics can provide a rational basis for clinical decisions about lipid lowering therapy.2015-04-10T00:00:00ZA review of environmental and occupational exposure to xylene and its health concernsNiaz, KamalBahadar, HajiMaqbool, FaheemAbdollahi, Mohammadhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349982016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-11-23T00:00:00ZTitle: A review of environmental and occupational exposure to xylene and its health concerns
Authors: Niaz, Kamal; Bahadar, Haji; Maqbool, Faheem; Abdollahi, Mohammad
Abstract: Xylene is a cyclic hydrocarbon, and an environmental pollutant. It is also used in dyes, paints, polishes, medical technology and different industries as a solvent. Xylene easily vaporizes and divides by sunlight into other harmless chemicals. The aim of the present review is to collect the evidence of the xylene toxicity, related to non-cancerous health hazards, as well as to provide possible effective measurement to minimize its risk ratio. For current study a bibliographic search of more than 250 peer-reviewed papers in scientific data including PubMed, and Google Scholar about xylene was done. But approximately 130 peer-reviewed papers relevant to xylene were included (Figure 1). All scientific data was reviewed with key words of “xylene toxicity”, “xylene toxic health effects”, “environmental volatile organic compounds”, “human exposure to xylene”, “xylene poisoning in laboratory workers”, “effects of xylene along with other hydrocarbons”, “neurotoxicity of selected hydrocarbons”, and “toxic effects of particular xylene isomers in animals”. According to these studies, xylene is released into the atmosphere as fugitive emissions from petrochemical industries, fire, cigarette, from different vehicles. Short term exposure to mixed xylene or their individual isomers result in irritation of the nose, eyes and throat subsequently leading toward neurological, gastrointestinal and reproductive harmful effects. In addition long term exposure to xylene may cause hazardous effects on respiratory system, central nervous system, cardiovascular system, and renal system. The health concerns of xylene are well documented in animals and human. It is important to improve health policies, launch xylene related health and toxicity awareness campaigns, to get rid of its dangerous outcomes. Chronic diseases have become a threat to human globally, with special prominence in regions, where xylene is used with other chemicals (benzene, toluene etc.) especially in petroleum and rubber industry. The mechanism of toxicity and interactions with endocrine system should be followed up which is the main threat to human health.2015-11-23T00:00:00ZRegulatory RNAs controlling vascular (dys)function by affecting TGF-ß family signallingKurakula, KondababuGoumans, Marie-Joseten Dijke, Peterhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349972016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-07-10T00:00:00ZTitle: Regulatory RNAs controlling vascular (dys)function by affecting TGF-ß family signalling
Authors: Kurakula, Kondababu; Goumans, Marie-Jose; ten Dijke, Peter
Abstract: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Over the last few years, microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as master regulators of gene expression in cardiovascular biology and di¬sease. miRNAs are small endogenous non-coding RNAs that usually bind to 3′ untranslated region (UTR) of their target mRNAs and inhibit mRNA stability or translation of their target genes. miRNAs play a dynamic role in the pathophysiology of many CVDs through their effects on target mRNAs in vascular cells. Recently, numerous miRNAs have been implicated in the regulation of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signalling pathway which plays crucial roles in diverse biological processes, and is involved in pathogenesis of many diseases including CVD. This review gives an overview of current literature on the role of miRNAs targeting TGF-β/BMP signalling in vascular cells, including endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells. We also provide insight into how this miRNA-mediated regulation of TGF-β/BMP signalling might be used to harness CVD.2015-07-10T00:00:00ZPlants with potential use on obesity and its complicationsGamboa-Gómez, Claudia I.Rocha-Guzmán, Nuria E.Gallegos-Infante, J. AlbertoMoreno-Jiménez, Martha R.Vázquez-Cabral, Blanca D.González-Laredo, Rubén F.http://hdl.handle.net/2003/349962016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-07-09T00:00:00ZTitle: Plants with potential use on obesity and its complications
Authors: Gamboa-Gómez, Claudia I.; Rocha-Guzmán, Nuria E.; Gallegos-Infante, J. Alberto; Moreno-Jiménez, Martha R.; Vázquez-Cabral, Blanca D.; González-Laredo, Rubén F.
Abstract: Obesity is the most prevalent nutritional disease and a growing public health problem worldwide. This disease is a causal component of the metabolic syndrome related with abnormalities, including hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, hypertension, inflammation, among others. There are anti-obesity drugs, affecting the fundamental processes of the weight regulation; however they have shown serious side effects, which outweigh their beneficial effects. Most recent studies on the treatment of obesity and its complications have focused on the potential role of different plants preparation that can exert a positive effect on the mechanisms involved in this pathology. For instance, anti-obesity effects of green tea and its isolated active principles have been reported in both in vitro (cell cultures) and in vivo (animal models) that possess healthy effects, decreasing adipose tissue through reduction of adipocytes differentiation and proliferation. A positive effect in lipid profile, and lipid and carbohydrates metabolisms were demonstrated as well. In addition, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities were studied. However, the consumption of green tea and its products is not that common in Western countries, where other plants with similar bioactivity predominate; nevertheless, the effect extension has not been analyzed in depth, despite of their potential as alternative treatment for obesity. In this review the anti-obesity potential and reported mechanisms of action of diverse plants such as: Camellia sinensis, Hibiscus sabdariffa, Hypericum perforatum, Persea americana, Phaseolus vulgaris, Capsicum annuum, Rosmarinus officinalis, Ilex paraguariensis, Citrus paradisi, Citrus limon, Punica granatum, Aloe vera, Taraxacum officinale and Arachis hypogaea is summarized. We consider the potential of these plants as natural alternative treatments of some metabolic alterations associated with obesity.2015-07-09T00:00:00ZExperimental procedures to identify and validate specific mRNA targets of miRNAsElton, Terry S.Yalowich, Jack C.http://hdl.handle.net/2003/349952016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-07-02T00:00:00ZTitle: Experimental procedures to identify and validate specific mRNA targets of miRNAs
Authors: Elton, Terry S.; Yalowich, Jack C.
Abstract: Functionally matured microRNAs (miRNAs) are small single-stranded non-coding RNA molecules which are emerging as important post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression and consequently are central players in many physiological and pathological processes. Since the biological roles of individual miRNAs will be dictated by the mRNAs that they regulate, the identification and validation of miRNA/mRNA target interactions is critical for our understanding of the regulatory networks governing biological processes. We promulgate the combined use of prediction algorithms, the examination of curated databases of experimentally supported miRNA/mRNA interactions, manual sequence inspection of cataloged miRNA binding sites in specific target mRNAs, and review of the published literature as a reliable practice for identifying and prioritizing biologically important miRNA/mRNA target pairs. Once a preferred miRNA/mRNA target pair has been selected, we propose that the authenticity of a functional miRNA/mRNA target pair be validated by fulfilling four well-defined experimental criteria. This review summarizes our current knowledge of miRNA biology, miRNA/mRNA target prediction algorithms, validated miRNA/mRNA target data bases, and outlines several experimental methods by which miRNA/mRNA targets can be authenticated. In addition, a case study of human endoglin is presented as an example of the utilization of these methodologies.2015-07-02T00:00:00ZRole of anti-diabetic drugs as therapeutic agents in Alzheimer's diseaseRizvi, Syed Mohd. DanishShaikh, SibhghatullaWaseem, Shah Mohammad AbbasShakil, ShaziAbuzenadah, Adel M.Biswas, DeboshreeTabrez, ShamsAshraf, Ghulam Md.Kamal, Mohammad Amjadhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349942016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-05-19T00:00:00ZTitle: Role of anti-diabetic drugs as therapeutic agents in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Rizvi, Syed Mohd. Danish; Shaikh, Sibhghatulla; Waseem, Shah Mohammad Abbas; Shakil, Shazi; Abuzenadah, Adel M.; Biswas, Deboshree; Tabrez, Shams; Ashraf, Ghulam Md.; Kamal, Mohammad Amjad
Abstract: Recent data have suggested a strong possible link between Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Alzheimer’s disease (AD), although exact mechanisms linking the two are still a matter of research and debate. Interestingly, both are diseases with high incidence and prevalence in later years of life. The link appears so strong that some scientists use Alzheimer’s and Type 3 Diabetes interchangeably. In depth study of recent data suggests that the anti diabetic drugs not only have possible role in treatment of Alzheimer’s but may also arrest the declining cognitive functions associated with it. The present review gives an insight into the possible links, existing therapeutics and clinical trials of anti diabetic drugs in patients suffering from AD primarily or as co-morbidity. It may be concluded that the possible beneficial effects and usefulness of the current anti diabetic drugs in AD cannot be neglected and further research is required to achieve positive results. Currently, several drug trials are in progress to give conclusive evidence based data.2015-05-19T00:00:00ZOsmoregulation in zebrafish: ion transport mechanisms and functional regulationGuh, Ying-JeyLin, Chia-HaoHwang, Pung-Punghttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349932016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-05-11T00:00:00ZTitle: Osmoregulation in zebrafish: ion transport mechanisms and functional regulation
Authors: Guh, Ying-Jey; Lin, Chia-Hao; Hwang, Pung-Pung
Abstract: Fish, like mammals, have to maintain their body fluid ionic and osmotic homeostasis through sophisticated
iono-/osmoregulation mechanisms, which are conducted mainly by ionocytes of the gill (the skin in embryonic stages), instead of the renal tubular cells in mammals. Given the advantages in terms of genetic database availability and manipulation, zebrafish is an emerging model for research into regulatory and integrative physiology. At least five types of ionocytes, HR, NaR, NCC, SLC26, and KS cells, have been identified to carry out Na+ uptake/H+ secretion/NH4+ excretion, Ca2+ uptake, Na+/Cl- uptake, K+ secretion, and Cl- uptake/HCO3- secretion, respectively, through distinct sets of transporters. Several hormones, namely isotocin, prolactin, cortisol, stanniocalcin-1, calcitonin, endothelin-1, vitamin D, parathyorid hormone 1, catecholamines, and the renin-angiotensin-system, have been demonstrated to positively or negatively regulate ion transport through specific receptors at different ionocytes stages, at either the transcriptional/translational or posttranslational level. The knowledge obtained using zebrafish answered many long-term contentious or unknown issues in the field of fish iono-/osmoregulation. The homology of ion transport pathways and hormone systems also means that the zebrafish model informs studies on mammals or other animal species, thereby providing insights into related fields.2015-05-11T00:00:00ZA systematic review of the cardiotoxicity of methadoneAlinejad, SamiraKazemi, TobaZamani, NasimHoffman, Robert S.Mehrpour, Omidhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349922016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-05-05T00:00:00ZTitle: A systematic review of the cardiotoxicity of methadone
Authors: Alinejad, Samira; Kazemi, Toba; Zamani, Nasim; Hoffman, Robert S.; Mehrpour, Omid
Abstract: Methadone is one of the most popular synthetic opioids in the world with some favorable properties making it useful both in the treatment of moderate to severe pain and for opioid addiction. Increased use of methadone has resulted in an increased prevalence of its toxicity, one aspect of which is cardiotoxicity. In this paper, we review the effects of methadone on the heart as well as cardiac concerns in some special situations such as pregnancy and childhood. Methods: We searched for the terms methadone, toxicity, poisoning, cardiotoxicity, heart, dysrhythmia, arrhythmia, QT interval prolongation, torsade de pointes, and Electrocardiogram (ECG) in bibliographical databases including TUMS digital library, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. This review includes relevant articles published between 2000 and 2013. The main cardiac effects of methadone include prolongation of QT interval and torsade de pointes. Other effects include changes in QT dispersion, pathological U waves, Taku-Tsubo syndrome (stress cardiomyopathy), Brugada-like syndrome, and coronary artery diseases. The aim of this paper is to inform physicians and health care staff about these adverse effects. Effectiveness of methadone in the treatment of pain and addiction should be weighed against these adverse effects and physicians should consider the ways to lessen such undesirable effects. This article presents some recommendations to prevent heart toxicity in methadone users.2015-05-05T00:00:00ZPersimmon (Diospyros kaki) fruit: hidden phytochemicals and health claimsButt, Masood SadiqSultan, M. TauseefAziz, MahwishNaz, AmbreenAhmed, WaqasKumar, NareshImran, Muhammadhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349912016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-05-04T00:00:00ZTitle: Persimmon (Diospyros kaki) fruit: hidden phytochemicals and health claims
Authors: Butt, Masood Sadiq; Sultan, M. Tauseef; Aziz, Mahwish; Naz, Ambreen; Ahmed, Waqas; Kumar, Naresh; Imran, Muhammad
Abstract: Currently, nutrition and health linkages focused on emerging strategy of diet based regimen to combat various physiological threats including cardiovascular disorders, oxidative stress, diabetes mellitus, etc. In this context, consumption of fruits and vegetables is gaining considerable importance as safeguard to maintain human health. Likewise, their phytochemicals and bioactive molecules are also becoming popular as promising demulcent against various ailments. The current review is an effort to sum up information regarding persimmon fruit with special reference to its phytochemistry and associated health claims. Accordingly, the role of its certain bioactive molecules like proanthocyanidin, carotenoids, tannins, flavonoids, anthocyanidin, catechin, etc. is highlighted. Owing to rich phytochemistry, persimmon and its products are considered effective in mitigating oxidative damage induced by reactive oxygen species (ROS). The antioxidant potential is too responsible for anti-malignant and anti-melanogenic perspectives of persimmon functional ingredients. Additionally, they are effectual in soothing lifestyle related disparities e.g. cardiovascular disorders and diabetes mellitus. There are proven facts that pharmacological application of persimmon or its functional ingredients like proanthocyanidin may helps against hyperlipidemia and hyperglycemia. Nevertheless, astringent taste and diospyrobezoars formation are creating lacuna to prop up its vitality. In toto, persimmon and its components hold potential as one of effective modules in diet based therapy; however, integrated research and meta-analysis are still required to enhance meticulousness.2015-05-04T00:00:00ZProstate cancer and glutathione S-transferase deletionsMalik, Saima ShakilMasood, NosheenYasmin, Azrahttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349902016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-09-21T00:00:00ZTitle: Prostate cancer and glutathione S-transferase deletions
Authors: Malik, Saima Shakil; Masood, Nosheen; Yasmin, Azra
Abstract: GSTM1 and GSTT1 gene polymorphisms have been studied in many populations to evaluate their association with prostate cancer risk with contrasting results. The current study was aimed to find out the association of GSTM1 and GSTT1 gene polymorphisms with prostate cancer in Pakistani men. This case control study included pathologically confirmed prostate cancer patients and age matched male controls. Epidemiological data was collected by a standard questionnaire and presence or absence of GSTM1 and GSTT1 gene was observed by multiplex PCR using CYP1A1 as housekeeping gene. Prostate cancer was more prevalent in age of >60 years and most of the patients were at stage IV (70 %) and have undergone surgery. Family history of cancer, smoking, metastasis and surgery were found to be significant (P<0.05) risk factors in prostate cancer development. Gleason score 7 was most prevalent (40.5 %) in prostate cancer patients. Source of drinking water, residential area, occupation, eating habits and number of family members had no association (P>0.05) with prostate cancer risk. No significant association was found when comparing GSTM1 (OR=0.78) and GSTT1 (OR=0.89) gene deletions with prostate cancer risk. Smoking and TNM staging were also not associated with deletion of GSTM1 and GSTT1 genes. Comparison of dual null deletion of both genes with prostate cancer also showed nonsignificant associations. Deletion of GSTM1 gene at stage IV prostate cancer patients was significantly higher compared with other stages of cancer while no significance was shown by GSTT1 gene deletion. GSTM1, GSTT1 and deletion of both GSTM1 and GSTT1 genes do not contribute towards increased risk of prostate cancer in Pakistani population.2015-09-21T00:00:00ZDrug-induced mitochondrial impairment in liver cellsStoeber, Reginahttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349892016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-12-22T00:00:00ZTitle: Drug-induced mitochondrial impairment in liver cells
Authors: Stoeber, Regina2015-12-22T00:00:00ZIdentification of carcinogens by a selected panel of DNA damage response associated genesStoeber, Reginahttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349882016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-12-22T00:00:00ZTitle: Identification of carcinogens by a selected panel of DNA damage response associated genes
Authors: Stoeber, Regina2015-12-22T00:00:00ZExpression classifiers for developmental toxicantsReif, Raymondhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349872016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-12-22T00:00:00ZTitle: Expression classifiers for developmental toxicants
Authors: Reif, Raymond2015-12-22T00:00:00ZTherapy of hyperammonemiaWidera, Agatahttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349862016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-12-22T00:00:00ZTitle: Therapy of hyperammonemia
Authors: Widera, Agata2015-12-22T00:00:00ZSystems ToxicologyGhallab, Ahmedhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349852016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-12-22T00:00:00ZTitle: Systems Toxicology
Authors: Ghallab, Ahmed2015-12-22T00:00:00ZHighlight report: New methods for quantification of bile canalicular dynamicsGhallab, Ahmedhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349842016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-12-21T00:00:00ZTitle: Highlight report: New methods for quantification of bile canalicular dynamics
Authors: Ghallab, Ahmed2015-12-21T00:00:00ZInterspecies extrapolation by physiologically based pharmacokinetic modelingGhallab, Ahmedhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349832016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-12-21T00:00:00ZTitle: Interspecies extrapolation by physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling
Authors: Ghallab, Ahmed2015-12-21T00:00:00ZTranscriptomic signature for drug-induced steatosisStoeber, Reginahttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349822016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-12-21T00:00:00ZTitle: Transcriptomic signature for drug-induced steatosis
Authors: Stoeber, Regina2015-12-21T00:00:00ZHighlight report: Erroneous sample annotation in a high fraction of publicly available genome-wide expression datasetsGrinberg, Mariannahttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349812016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-12-21T00:00:00ZTitle: Highlight report: Erroneous sample annotation in a high fraction of publicly available genome-wide expression datasets
Authors: Grinberg, Marianna2015-12-21T00:00:00ZHighlight report: Software for tissue analysis and reconstructionHaridy, Mohie A. M.El-Sayed, Yasser S.http://hdl.handle.net/2003/349802016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-09-23T00:00:00ZTitle: Highlight report: Software for tissue analysis and reconstruction
Authors: Haridy, Mohie A. M.; El-Sayed, Yasser S.2015-09-23T00:00:00ZHighlight report: Blueprint for stem cell differentiation into liver cellsGhallab, Ahmedhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349792016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-09-02T00:00:00ZTitle: Highlight report: Blueprint for stem cell differentiation into liver cells
Authors: Ghallab, Ahmed2015-09-02T00:00:00ZHighlight report: Interspecies extrapolation by physiologically based pharmacokinetic modelingWidera, Agatahttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349782016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-09-01T00:00:00ZTitle: Highlight report: Interspecies extrapolation by physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling
Authors: Widera, Agata2015-09-01T00:00:00ZHighlight report: Role of the circadian clock system in breast cancerGhallab, Ahmedhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349772016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-04-14T00:00:00ZTitle: Highlight report: Role of the circadian clock system in breast cancer
Authors: Ghallab, Ahmed2015-04-14T00:00:00ZUse of medicinal plants by breast cancer patients in AlgeriaBenarba, Bachirhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349762016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-11-20T00:00:00ZTitle: Use of medicinal plants by breast cancer patients in Algeria
Authors: Benarba, Bachir2015-11-20T00:00:00ZELISA for detection of humoral immunity against measlesZahoor, Muhammad AsifSaqalein, MuhammadNawaz, Zeeshanhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349752016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-10-20T00:00:00ZTitle: ELISA for detection of humoral immunity against measles
Authors: Zahoor, Muhammad Asif; Saqalein, Muhammad; Nawaz, Zeeshan2015-10-20T00:00:00ZRecent developments in animal sciencesHammad, SeddikSobor, IsabelleAbdallah, Mohammed F.Abdel-Wareth, Ahmed A. A.Al-Aboody, Mohammad S.Omar, Mosaab A.http://hdl.handle.net/2003/349742016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-05-11T00:00:00ZTitle: Recent developments in animal sciences
Authors: Hammad, Seddik; Sobor, Isabelle; Abdallah, Mohammed F.; Abdel-Wareth, Ahmed A. A.; Al-Aboody, Mohammad S.; Omar, Mosaab A.2015-05-11T00:00:00ZAn updated review of cucurbitacins and their biological and pharmacological activitiesChung, Sun OkKim, Yong JooPark, Sang Unhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349722016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-05-05T00:00:00ZTitle: An updated review of cucurbitacins and their biological and pharmacological activities
Authors: Chung, Sun Ok; Kim, Yong Joo; Park, Sang Un2015-05-05T00:00:00ZPrevalence of measles in vaccinated and non-vaccinated childrenZahoor, Muhammad AsifRasool, Muhammad HidayatWaseem, MuhammadAslam, BilalZahoor, Muhammad KashifSaqalein, MuhammadNawaz, ZeeshanSahar, Rabiahttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/349712016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-04-01T00:00:00ZTitle: Prevalence of measles in vaccinated and non-vaccinated children
Authors: Zahoor, Muhammad Asif; Rasool, Muhammad Hidayat; Waseem, Muhammad; Aslam, Bilal; Zahoor, Muhammad Kashif; Saqalein, Muhammad; Nawaz, Zeeshan; Sahar, Rabia2015-04-01T00:00:00ZInvestigations on Leucas cephalotes (Roth.) Spreng. for inhibition of LPS-induced pro-inflammatory mediators in murine macrophages and in rat modelPatel, Neeraj K.Khan, Mohd. ShahidBhutani, Kamlesh K.http://hdl.handle.net/2003/349672016-07-05T12:55:24Z2015-04-10T00:00:00ZTitle: Investigations on Leucas cephalotes (Roth.) Spreng. for inhibition of LPS-induced pro-inflammatory mediators in murine macrophages and in rat model
Authors: Patel, Neeraj K.; Khan, Mohd. Shahid; Bhutani, Kamlesh K.
Abstract: Silica gel column chromatography fractionation of the dichloromethane extract (LCD) of Leucas cephalotes
(Roth.) Spreng. led to the isolation of five compounds namely β-sitosterol (1) + stigmasterol (2), lupeol (3),
oleanolic acid (4) and laballenic acid (5). Also, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of
sub-fraction (LCD-F1) of this extract showed the presence of eleven (6-16) compounds. In addition to this, 3-5
and LCD-F1 were evaluated for lipopolysachharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor
(TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-1β production in RAW 264.7 and J774A.1 cells. Results directed that 4 and 5 were
found to inhibit these mediators at half maximal inhibitory concentration of 17.12 to 57.20 μM while IC50 for
LCD-F1 was found to be 15.56 to 31.71 μg/mL. Furthermore, LCD at a dose of 50, 100 and 400 mg/Kg was
found to reduce significantly LPS induced tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-1β production in
female Sprague Dawley (SD) rats. All the results findings evoked that the anti-inflammatory effects of Leucas
cephalotes is partially mediated through the suppression of pro-inflammatory mediators and hence can be utilized for the development of anti-inflammatory candidates.2015-04-10T00:00:00ZObesity pharmacotherapyKumar, ParveenBhandari, Umahttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340642015-08-12T20:06:33Z2015-02-20T00:00:00ZTitle: Obesity pharmacotherapy
Authors: Kumar, Parveen; Bhandari, Uma2015-02-20T00:00:00ZRecent studies on betulinic acid and its biological and pharmacological activityLee, Sook YoungKim, Haeng HoonPark, Sang Unhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340632015-08-12T20:05:49Z2015-02-02T00:00:00ZTitle: Recent studies on betulinic acid and its biological and pharmacological activity
Authors: Lee, Sook Young; Kim, Haeng Hoon; Park, Sang Un2015-02-02T00:00:00ZAn up-to-date review of rutin and its biological and pharmacological activitiesAl-Dhabi, Naif AbdullahValan Arasu, MariadhasPark, Chang HaPark, Sang Unhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340622015-08-13T01:48:05Z2015-01-09T00:00:00ZTitle: An up-to-date review of rutin and its biological and pharmacological activities
Authors: Al-Dhabi, Naif Abdullah; Valan Arasu, Mariadhas; Park, Chang Ha; Park, Sang Un2015-01-09T00:00:00ZPerspectives of tissues in silicoHammad, SeddikOmar, Mosaab A.Abdallah, Mohammed F.Ahmed, Hassanhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340612015-08-12T20:27:12Z2015-03-11T00:00:00ZTitle: Perspectives of tissues in silico
Authors: Hammad, Seddik; Omar, Mosaab A.; Abdallah, Mohammed F.; Ahmed, Hassan2015-03-11T00:00:00ZPresence of anti-mitochondrial antibodies and elevated serum immunoglobulin G levelsMuttaqillah, Najihan Abdul SamatAbdul Wahab, AsrulDing, Chuan HunMohammad, MarlynBiswas, SuvraRahman, Md. Mostafizurhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340602015-08-12T20:27:39Z2015-01-30T00:00:00ZTitle: Presence of anti-mitochondrial antibodies and elevated serum immunoglobulin G levels
Authors: Muttaqillah, Najihan Abdul Samat; Abdul Wahab, Asrul; Ding, Chuan Hun; Mohammad, Marlyn; Biswas, Suvra; Rahman, Md. Mostafizur
Abstract: Primary biliary cirrhosis in combination with autoimmune hepatitis has been termed “overlap syndrome”, but its diagnosis is challenging. We report a case of a 43-year-old lady who presented with a six-month history of jaundice and pruritus. She subsequently developed gum bleeds. Laboratory investigations revealed hypochromic microcytic anemia, abnormal coagulation profiles, elevated serum alanine transferase and alkaline phosphatase levels, and raised serum IgG and IgM levels. Her serum was also positive for anti-nuclear and anti-mitochondrial antibodies. The findings from her abdominal CT scan were suggestive of early liver cirrhosis and the histopathological examination results of her liver biopsy were consistent with primary biliary cirrhosis. The patient was treated with ursodeoxycholic acid and her liver function test parameters normalized after six months.2015-01-30T00:00:00ZData- and knowledge-based modeling of gene regulatory networks: an updateLinde, JörgSchulze, SylvieHenkel, Sebastian G.Guthke, Reinhardhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340592015-08-13T01:48:03Z2015-03-02T00:00:00ZTitle: Data- and knowledge-based modeling of gene regulatory networks: an update
Authors: Linde, Jörg; Schulze, Sylvie; Henkel, Sebastian G.; Guthke, Reinhard
Abstract: Gene regulatory network inference is a systems biology approach which predicts interactions between genes with the help of high-throughput data. In this review, we present current and updated network inference methods focusing on novel techniques for data acquisition, network inference assessment, network inference for interacting species and the integration of prior knowledge. After the advance of Next-Generation-Sequencing of cDNAs derived from RNA samples (RNA-Seq) we discuss in detail its application to network inference. Furthermore, we present progress for large-scale or even full-genomic network inference as well as for small-scale condensed network inference and review advances in the evaluation of network inference methods by crowdsourcing. Finally, we reflect the current availability of data and prior knowledge sources and give an outlook for the inference of gene regulatory networks that reflect interacting species, in particular pathogen-host interactions.2015-03-02T00:00:00ZA review on biological and chemical diversity in Berberis (Berberidaceae)Srivastava, SharadSrivastava, ManjooshaMisra, AnkitaPandey, GarimaRawat, AKShttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340582015-08-13T01:46:34Z2015-02-20T00:00:00ZTitle: A review on biological and chemical diversity in Berberis (Berberidaceae)
Authors: Srivastava, Sharad; Srivastava, Manjoosha; Misra, Ankita; Pandey, Garima; Rawat, AKS
Abstract: Berberis is an important genus and well known in the Indian as well as European systems of traditional medicine. It is used since ancient times for curing eye disease, fever, jaundice, rheumatism, vomiting during pregnancy, kidney and gall balder stones and various other ailments due to the presence of biologically active alkaloid berberine. Action of the root extracts of few species are believed to be as powerful as quinine in the treatment of malarial fever.
A plethora of literature pertaining to the taxonomy, biology, chemistry, traditional and ethnic uses of Berberis in different countries and indigenous cultures was collected by both offline (library, journals, textbooks etc.) and online mode (electronic search of available databases). In addition to this, books on traditional medicine and ethno pharmacological knowledge were also referred to extract ancient uses of Berberis in different traditional medicine systems. Most of the folklore, traditional and ethno botanical claims about Berberis species were validated by broad spectrum in vitro and vivo pharmacological studies. The present article summarizes its usage in eye and liver disorder, fever, kidney and gall stones along with anticancer activity.
This comprehensive review will not only help researchers for further evaluation but also provide substantial information for future exploitation of species to develop novel herbal formulations.2015-02-20T00:00:00ZDeep sea as a source of novel-anticancer drugsRusso, PatriziaDel Bufalo, AlessandraFini, Massimohttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340572015-08-13T01:46:32Z2015-02-10T00:00:00ZTitle: Deep sea as a source of novel-anticancer drugs
Authors: Russo, Patrizia; Del Bufalo, Alessandra; Fini, Massimo
Abstract: The deep-sea habitat is a source of very potent marine-derived agents that may inhibit the growth of human cancer cells “in vitro” and “in vivo”. Salinosporamide-A, Marizomib, by Salinispora species is a proteasome inhibitor with promising anticancer activity (Phase I/II trials). Different deep-sea-derived drugs are under preclinical evaluation. Cancer is a complex disease that may be represented by network medicine. A simple consequence is the change of the concept of target entity from a single protein to a whole molecular pathway and or cellular network. Deep-sea-derived drugs fit well to this new concept.2015-02-10T00:00:00ZNeutrophil biologyKobayashi, Yoshirohttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340562015-08-12T20:24:11Z2015-02-10T00:00:00ZTitle: Neutrophil biology
Authors: Kobayashi, Yoshiro
Abstract: Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are involved in bacterial killing as well as autoimmunity, because NETs contain proteases, bactericidal peptides, DNA and ribonucleoprotein. NETs are formed via a novel type of cell death called NETosis. NETosis is distinct from apoptosis, but it resembles necrosis in that both membranes are not intact so that they allow intracellular proteins to leak outside of the cells. Removal of NETs and neutrophils undergoing NETosis by phagocytes and its subsequent response are not completely clarified, as compared with the response after removal of either apoptotic or necrotic neutrophils by phagocytes. How neutrophil density in peripheral blood is kept within a certain range is important for health and disease. Although the studies on severe congenital neutropenia and benign ethnic neutropenia have provided unbiased views on it, the studies are rather limited to human neutropenia, and mice with a mutation of mouse counterpart gene often fail to exhibit neutropenia. Degranulation plays a critical role in bactericidal action. The recent studies revealed that it is also involved in immunomodulation, pain control and estrous cycle control. N1 and N2 are representative of neutrophil subpopulations. The dichotomy holds true in patients or mice with severe trauma or cancer, providing the basis of differential roles of neutrophils in diseases.2015-02-10T00:00:00ZMicroRNAs in endometrial cancerYanokura, MegumiBanno, KoujiIida, MihoIrie, HarukoUmene, KiyokoMasuda, KentaKobayashi, YusukeTominaga, EiichiroAoki, Daisukehttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340552015-08-12T20:19:26Z2015-02-02T00:00:00ZTitle: MicroRNAs in endometrial cancer
Authors: Yanokura, Megumi; Banno, Kouji; Iida, Miho; Irie, Haruko; Umene, Kiyoko; Masuda, Kenta; Kobayashi, Yusuke; Tominaga, Eiichiro; Aoki, Daisuke
Abstract: Endometrial cancer is a common malignant gynecological tumor, but there are few biomarkers that are useful for early and accurate diagnosis and few treatments other than surgery. However, use of microRNAs (miRNAs) that induces gene downregulation in cells may permit effective and minimally invasive diagnosis and treatment. In endometrial cancer cells, expression levels of miRNAs including miR-185, miR-210 and miR-423 are upregulated and those of miR-let7e, miR-30c and miR-221 are downregulated compared to normal tissues, and these miRNAs are involved in carcinogenesis, invasion and metastasis. miRNAs with expression changes such as miR-181b, miR-324-3p and miR-518b may be used as prognostic biomarkers and transfection of miR-152 may inhibit cancer growth. However, most current studies of miRNAs are at a basic level and further work is needed to establish clinical applications targeting miRNAs.2015-02-02T00:00:00ZMolecular mechanisms of etoposideMontecucco, AlessandraZanetta, FrancescaBiamonti, Giuseppehttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340542015-08-12T20:06:24Z2015-01-19T00:00:00ZTitle: Molecular mechanisms of etoposide
Authors: Montecucco, Alessandra; Zanetta, Francesca; Biamonti, Giuseppe
Abstract: Etoposide derives from podophyllotoxin, a toxin found in the American Mayapple. It was first synthesized in 1966 and approved for cancer therapy in 1983 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (Hande, 1998). Starting from 1980s several studies demonstrated that etoposide targets DNA topoisomerase II activities thus leading to the production of DNA breaks and eliciting a response that affects several aspects of cell metabolisms. In this review we will focus on molecular mechanisms that account for the biological effect of etoposide.2015-01-19T00:00:00ZHeat shock protein 90 targeting therapyTatokoro, ManabuKoga, FumitakaYoshida, SoichiroKihara, Kazunorihttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340532015-08-12T20:16:42Z2015-01-06T00:00:00ZTitle: Heat shock protein 90 targeting therapy
Authors: Tatokoro, Manabu; Koga, Fumitaka; Yoshida, Soichiro; Kihara, Kazunori
Abstract: Heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) is an ATP-dependent molecular chaperone that plays a role in stabilizing and activating more than 200 client proteins. It is required for the stability and function of numerous oncogenic signaling proteins that determine the hallmarks of cancer. Since the initial discovery of the first Hsp90 inhibitor in the 1970s, multiple phase II and III clinical trials of several Hsp90 inhibitors have been undertaken. This review provides an overview of the current status on clinical trials of Hsp90 inhibitors and future perspectives on novel anticancer strategies using Hsp90 inhibitors.2015-01-06T00:00:00ZAdvances in hepatic stem/progenitor cell biologyVerhulst, StefaanBest, Janvan Grunsven, Leo A.Dollé, Laurenthttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340522015-08-12T20:13:03Z2015-01-06T00:00:00ZTitle: Advances in hepatic stem/progenitor cell biology
Authors: Verhulst, Stefaan; Best, Jan; van Grunsven, Leo A.; Dollé, Laurent
Abstract: The liver is famous for its strong regenerative capacity, employing different modes of regeneration according to type and extent of injury. Mature liver cells are able to proliferate in order to replace the damaged tissue allowing the recovery of the parenchymal function. In more severe scenarios hepatocytes are believed to arise also from a facultative liver progenitor cell compartment. In human, severe acute liver failure and liver cirrhosis are also both important clinical targets in which regeneration is impaired, where the role of this stem cell compartment seems more convincing. In animal models, the current state of ambiguity regarding the identity and role of liver progenitor cells in liver physiology dampens the enthusiasm for the potential use of these cells in regenerative medicine. The aim of this review is to give the basics of liver progenitor cell biology and discuss recent results vis-à-vis their identity and contribution to liver regeneration.2015-01-06T00:00:00ZPhytomedical investigation of Najas minor All. in the view of the chemical constituentsTopuzović, Marina D.Radojević, Ivana D.Dekić, Milan S.Radulović, Niko S.Vasić, Sava M.Čomić´, Ljiljana R.Ličina, Braho Z.http://hdl.handle.net/2003/340512015-08-12T20:11:22Z2015-03-30T00:00:00ZTitle: Phytomedical investigation of Najas minor All. in the view of the chemical constituents
Authors: Topuzović, Marina D.; Radojević, Ivana D.; Dekić, Milan S.; Radulović, Niko S.; Vasić, Sava M.; Čomić´, Ljiljana R.; Ličina, Braho Z.
Abstract: Plants are an abundant natural source of effective antibiotic compounds. Phytomedical investigations of certain plants haven’t still been conducted. One of them is Najas minor (N. minor), an aquatic plant with confirmed allelopathy. Research conducted in this study showed the influence of water and ethyl acetate extracts of N. minor on microorganisms, in the view of chemical profiling of volatile constituents and the concentrations of total phenols, flavonoids and tannins. Antimicrobial activity was defined by determining minimum inhibitory and minimum microbicidal concentrations using microdilution method. Influence on bacterial biofilm formation was performed by tissue culture plate method. The total phenolics, flavonoids and condensed tannins were determined by Folin-Ciocalteu, aluminum chloride and butanol-HCl colorimetric methods. Chemical profiling of volatile constituents was investigated by GC and GC-MS. Water extract didn't have antimicrobial activity below 5000 µg/mL. Ethyl acetate extract has shown strong antimicrobial activity on G+ bacteria - Staphylococcus aureus PMFKGB12 and Bacillus subtilis (MIC < 78.13 µg/mL). The best antibiofilm activity was obtained on Escherichia coli ATCC25922 (BIC50 at 719 µg/mL). Water extract had higher yield. Ethyl acetate extract had a significantly greater amount of total phenolics, flavonoids and tannins. As major constituent hexahydrofarnesyl acetone was identified. The ethyl acetate extract effected only G+ bacteria, but the biofilm formation of G-bacteria was suppressed. There was a connection between those in vivo and in vitro effects against pathogenic bacterial biofilm formation. All of this points to a so far unexplored potential of N. minor.2015-03-30T00:00:00Z2D-QSAR study of some 2,5-diaminobenzophenone farnesyltransferase inhibitors by different chemometric methodsGhanbarzadeh, SaeedGhasemi, SaeedShayanfar, AliEbrahimi-Najafabadi, Heshmatollahhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340502015-08-12T20:08:18Z2015-03-30T00:00:00ZTitle: 2D-QSAR study of some 2,5-diaminobenzophenone farnesyltransferase inhibitors by different chemometric methods
Authors: Ghanbarzadeh, Saeed; Ghasemi, Saeed; Shayanfar, Ali; Ebrahimi-Najafabadi, Heshmatollah
Abstract: Quantitative structure activity relationship (QSAR) models can be used to predict the activity of new drug candidates in early stages of drug discovery. In the present study, the information of the ninety two 2,5-diaminobenzophenone-containing farnesyltranaferase inhibitors (FTIs) were taken from the literature. Subsequently, the structures of the molecules were optimized using Hyperchem software and molecular descriptors were obtained using Dragon software. The most suitable descriptors were selected using genetic algorithms-partial least squares and stepwise regression, where exhibited that the volume, shape and polarity of the FTIs are important for their activities. The two-dimensional QSAR models (2D-QSAR) were obtained using both linear methods (multiple linear regression) and non-linear methods (artificial neural networks and support vector machines). The proposed QSAR models were validated using internal validation method. The results showed that the proposed 2D-QSAR models were valid and they can be used for prediction of the activities of the 2,5-diaminobenzophenone-containing FTIs. In conclusion, the 2D-QSAR models (both linear and non-linear) showed good prediction capability and the non-linear models were exhibited more accuracy than the linear models.2015-03-30T00:00:00ZDetermining a new formula for calculating low-density lipoprotein cholesterol: data mining approachDansethakul, PrabhopThapanathamchai, LalinSaichanma, SarawutWorachartcheewan, ApilakPidetcha, Phanneehttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340492015-08-13T01:44:08Z2015-03-26T00:00:00ZTitle: Determining a new formula for calculating low-density lipoprotein cholesterol: data mining approach
Authors: Dansethakul, Prabhop; Thapanathamchai, Lalin; Saichanma, Sarawut; Worachartcheewan, Apilak; Pidetcha, Phannee
Abstract: Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is a risk factor of coronary heart diseases. The estimation of LDL-C (LDL-Cal) level was performed using Friedewald’s equation for triglyceride (TG) level less than 400 mg/dL. Therefore, the aim of this study is to generate a new formula for LDL-Cal and validate the correlation coefficient between LDL-Cal and LDL-C directly measured (LDL-Direct). A data set of 1786 individuals receiving annual medical check-ups from the Faculty of Medical Technology, Mahidol University, Thailand in 2008 was used in this study. Lipid profiles including total cholesterol (TC), TG, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and LDL-C were determined using Roche/Hitachi modular system analyzer. The estimated LDL-C was obtained using Friedewald’s equation and the homogenous enzymatic method. The level of TG was divided into 6 groups (TG<200, <300, <400, <500, <600 and < 1000 mg/dL) for constructing the LDL-Cal formula. The pace regression model was used to construct the candidate formula for the LDL-Cal and determine the correlation coefficient (r) with the LDL-Direct. The candidate LDL-Cal formula was generated for 6 groups of TG levels that displayed well correlation between LDL-Cal and LDL-Direct. Interestingly, The TG level was less than 1000 mg/dL, the regression model was able to generate the equation as shown as strong r of 0.9769 with LDL-Direct. Furthermore, external data set (n = 666) with TG measurement (36-1480 mg/dL) was used to validate new formula which displayed high r of 0.971 between LDL-Cal and LDL-direct. This study explored a new formula for LDL-Cal which exhibited higher r of 0.9769 and far beyond the limitation of TG more than 1000 mg/dL and potential used for estimating LDL-C in routine clinical laboratories.2015-03-26T00:00:00ZBlood pressure percentiles by age and body mass index for adultsHosseini, MostafaBaikpour, MasoudYousefifard, MahmoudFayaz, MohammadKoohpayehzadeh, JalilGhelichkhani, ParisaAsady, HadiAsgari, FereshtehEtemad, KooroshRafei, AliGouya, Mohammad Mehdihttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340482015-08-12T20:06:38Z2015-03-24T00:00:00ZTitle: Blood pressure percentiles by age and body mass index for adults
Authors: Hosseini, Mostafa; Baikpour, Masoud; Yousefifard, Mahmoud; Fayaz, Mohammad; Koohpayehzadeh, Jalil; Ghelichkhani, Parisa; Asady, Hadi; Asgari, Fereshteh; Etemad, Koorosh; Rafei, Ali; Gouya, Mohammad Mehdi
Abstract: Since no comprehensive study has been conducted on blood pressure (BP) percentiles established upon nationally representative sample population of adults, the present study aimed to construct the blood pressure percentiles by age, sex and body mass index (BMI) of the subjects. Analyses were based on data collected in 2011 from 8,425 adults aged 25 to 69 years old. Data on demographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements, and blood pressure was recorded for each subject. Linear Regression analysis was used to assess the adjusted relationship of age-sex-specific standard deviation scores of BMI, height, and weight with blood pressure. Four separate models for systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) of men and women were constructed for BP percentiles according to age and BMI. Blood pressure increased with the rise in BMI and weight, but showed a negative correlation with height. SBP and DBP rose steadily with increasing age, but the rise in SBP was greater than DBP. Overweight and obese population, seem to fall into the category of hypertensive. The findings of present study show that BP percentiles are steadily increased by age and BMI. In addition, most obese or overweight adults are hypertensive.2015-03-24T00:00:00ZPrediction of aromatase inhibitory activity using the efficient linear method (ELM)Shoombuatong, WatsharaPrachayasittikul, VedaPrachayasittikul, VirapongNantasenamat, Chaninhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340472015-08-12T20:06:36Z2015-03-20T00:00:00ZTitle: Prediction of aromatase inhibitory activity using the efficient linear method (ELM)
Authors: Shoombuatong, Watshara; Prachayasittikul, Veda; Prachayasittikul, Virapong; Nantasenamat, Chanin
Abstract: Aromatase inhibition is an effective treatment strategy for breast cancer. Currently, several in silico methods have been developed for the prediction of aromatase inhibitors (AIs) using artificial neural network (ANN) or support vector machine (SVM). In spite of this, there are ample opportunities for further improvements by developing a simple and interpretable quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) method. Herein, an efficient linear method (ELM) is proposed for constructing a highly predictive QSAR model containing a spontaneous feature importance estimator. Briefly, ELM is a linear-based model with optimal parameters derived from genetic algorithm. Results showed that the simple ELM method displayed robust performance with 10-fold cross-validation MCC values of 0.64 and 0.56 for steroidal and non-steroidal AIs, respectively. Comparative analyses with other machine learning methods (i.e. ANN, SVM and decision tree) were also performed. A thorough analysis of informative molecular descriptors for both steroidal and non-steroidal AIs provided insights into the mechanism of action of compounds. Our findings suggest that the shape and polarizability of compounds may govern the inhibitory activity of both steroidal and non-steroidal types whereas the terminal primary C(sp3) functional group and electronegativity may be required for non-steroidal AIs. The R code of the ELM method is available at http://dx.doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.1274030.2015-03-20T00:00:00ZProliferation of macrophages due to the inhibition of inducible nitric oxide synthesis by oxidized low-density lipoproteinsBrunner, MonikaGruber, MiriamSchmid, DiethartBaran, HalinaMoeslinger, Thomashttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340462015-08-12T20:06:34Z2015-03-20T00:00:00ZTitle: Proliferation of macrophages due to the inhibition of inducible nitric oxide synthesis by oxidized low-density lipoproteins
Authors: Brunner, Monika; Gruber, Miriam; Schmid, Diethart; Baran, Halina; Moeslinger, Thomas
Abstract: Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox–LDL) is assumed to be a major causal agent in hypercholesteraemia-induced atherosclerosis. Because the proliferation of lipid-loaden macrophages within atherosclerotic lesions has been described, we investigated the dependence of macrophage proliferation on the inhibition of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) by hypochlorite oxidized LDL. Ox–LDL induces a dose dependent inhibition of inducible nitric oxide synthesis in lipopolysaccharide-interferon stimulated mouse macrophages (J774.A1) with concomitant macrophage proliferation as assayed by cell counting, tritiated-thymidine incorporation and measurement of cell protein. Native LDL did not influence macrophage proliferation and inducible nitric oxide synthesis. iNOS protein and mRNA was reduced by HOCl-oxidized LDL (0–40 µg/ml) as revealed by immunoblotting and competitive semiquantitative PCR. Macrophage proliferation was increased by the addition of the iNOS inhibitor L–NAME. The addition of ox–LDL to L–NAME containing incubations induced no further statistically significant increase in cell number. Nitric oxide donors decreased ox–LDL induced macrophage proliferation and nitric oxide scavengers restored macrophage proliferation to the initial values achieved by ox–LDL. The decrease of cytosolic DNA fragments in stimulated macrophages incubated with ox-LDL demonstrates that the proliferative actions of ox-LDL are associated with a decrease of NO-induced apoptosis. Our data show that inhibition of iNOS dependent nitric oxide production caused by hypochlorite oxidized LDL enhances macrophage proliferation. This might be a key event in the pathogenesis of atherosclerotic lesions.2015-03-20T00:00:00ZComparison of five pretreatments for the production of fermentable sugars obtained from Pinus pseudostrobus L. woodFarías-Sánchez, Juan CarlosLópez-Miranda, JavierCastro-Montoya, Agustín JaimeSaucedo-Luna, JaimeCarrillo-Parra, ArtemioLópez-Albarrán, PabloPineda-Pimentel, María GuadalupeRutiaga-Quiñones, José Guadalupehttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340452015-08-12T20:12:53Z2015-03-13T00:00:00ZTitle: Comparison of five pretreatments for the production of fermentable sugars obtained from Pinus pseudostrobus L. wood
Authors: Farías-Sánchez, Juan Carlos; López-Miranda, Javier; Castro-Montoya, Agustín Jaime; Saucedo-Luna, Jaime; Carrillo-Parra, Artemio; López-Albarrán, Pablo; Pineda-Pimentel, María Guadalupe; Rutiaga-Quiñones, José Guadalupe
Abstract: To benefit from the use of a waste product such as pine sawdust from a sawmill in Michoacán, Mexico, five different pretreatments for the production of reducing sugars by enzymatic hydrolysis were evaluated (sodium hydroxide, sulfuric acid, steam explosion, organosolv and combined method nitric acid / sodium hydroxide). The main finding of the study was that the pretreatment with 6 % HNO3 and 1 % NaOH led to better yields than those obtained with sodium hydroxide, dilute sulfuric acid, steam explosion, and organosolv pretreatments. Also, HNO3 yields were maximized by the factorial method. With those results the maxima concentration of reducing sugar found was 97.83 ± 1.59, obtained after pretreatment with 7.5 % HNO3 at 120 °C for 30 minutes; followed by 1 % of NaOH at 90 °C for 30 minutes at pH 4.5 for 168 hours with a load enzyme of 25 FPU/g of total carbohydrates. Comparing the results obtained by the authors with those reported in the literature, the combined method was found to be suitable for use in the exploitation of sawdust.2015-03-13T00:00:00ZLeukemia cell microvesicles promote survival in umbilical cord blood hematopoietic stem cellsRazmkhah, FarnazSoleimani, MasoudMehrabani, DavoodKarimi, Mohammad HosseinKafi-abad, Sedigheh Aminihttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340442015-08-12T20:12:28Z2015-03-13T00:00:00ZTitle: Leukemia cell microvesicles promote survival in umbilical cord blood hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Razmkhah, Farnaz; Soleimani, Masoud; Mehrabani, Davood; Karimi, Mohammad Hossein; Kafi-abad, Sedigheh Amini
Abstract: Microvesicles can transfer their contents, proteins and RNA, to target cells and thereby transform them. This may induce apoptosis or survival depending on cell origin and the target cell. In this study, we investigate the effect of leukemic cell microvesicles on umbilical cord blood hematopoietic stem cells to seek evidence of apoptosis or cell survival. Microvesicles were isolated from both healthy donor bone marrow samples and Jurkat cells by ultra-centrifugation and were added to hematopoietic stem cells sorted from umbilical cord blood samples by magnetic associated cell sorting (MACS) technique. After 7 days, cell count, cell viability, flow cytometry analysis for hematopoietic stem cell markers and qPCR for P53 gene expression were performed. The results showed higher cell number, higher cell viability rate and lower P53 gene expression in leukemia group in comparison with normal and control groups. Also, CD34 expression as the most important hematopoietic stem cell marker, did not change during the treatment and lineage differentiation was not observed. In conclusion, this study showed anti-apoptotic effect of leukemia cell derived microvesicles on umbilical cord blood hematopoietic stem cells.2015-03-13T00:00:00ZProtective effects of the aqueous extract of Crocus sativus against ethylene glycol induced nephrolithiasis in ratsAmin, BaharehFeriz, Hanieh MoghriHariri, Alireza TimchehMeybodi, Naser TayyebiHosseinzadeh, Hosseinhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340432015-08-12T20:16:37Z2015-03-12T00:00:00ZTitle: Protective effects of the aqueous extract of Crocus sativus against ethylene glycol induced nephrolithiasis in rats
Authors: Amin, Bahareh; Feriz, Hanieh Moghri; Hariri, Alireza Timcheh; Meybodi, Naser Tayyebi; Hosseinzadeh, Hossein
Abstract: This study evaluated the possible protective effect of Crocus sativus L. (saffron) in the treatment of renal calculi. Aqueous extract of saffron (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg, daily) was administered intraperitoneally in two regimens of protective or curative, using male Wistar rats. Urolithiasis was induced by ethylene glycol (% 0.75) in drinking water. Urine was collected for biochemical analysis and the kidneys were prepared for total lipid peroxide and histological evaluation. Ethylene glycol feeding resulted in an increased urine output, renal excretion of oxalate and decreased excretion of citrate and magnesium. Saffron did not show diuretic effect; however, it significantly reduced the elevated urinary oxalate in prophylactic (50 and 100 mg/kg) and curative (100 mg/kg) studies. Only the high dose of prophylactic regimen restored citrate concentration of urine. Increased number of calcium oxalate crystals deposits in the kidney tissue of calculogenic rats was significantly reverted by the prophylactic and high dose of curative saffron treatment. Malondialdehyde (MDA, a lipid peroxidation product) in the kidneys was increased following the lithogenic treatment; however, prophylactic (50, 100 mg/kg) and curative (100 mg/kg) regimens with saffron reduced the elevated levels of MDA. Results in the current study indicate that saffron can protect against ethylene glycol induced calcium oxalate (CaOx) nephrolithiasis. The mechanisms underlying this effect are mediated possibly through effect on the urinary concentration of stone-forming constituents and an antioxidant effect.2015-03-12T00:00:00ZEco-friendly synthesis, physicochemical studies, biological assay and molecular docking of steroidal oxime-ethersAlam, MahboobLee, Dong-Unghttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340422015-08-12T20:22:13Z2015-03-02T00:00:00ZTitle: Eco-friendly synthesis, physicochemical studies, biological assay and molecular docking of steroidal oxime-ethers
Authors: Alam, Mahboob; Lee, Dong-Ung
Abstract: The aim of this study was to report the synthesis of biologically active compounds; 7-(2′-aminoethoxyimino)-cholest-5-ene (4), a steroidal oxime-ether and its derivatives (5, 6) via a facile microwave assisted solvent free reaction methodology. This new synthetic, eco-friendly, sustainable protocol resulted in a remarkable improvement in the synthetic efficiency (85–93 % yield) and high purity using basic alumina. The synthesized compounds were screened for their antibacterial against six bacterial strains by disc diffusion method and antioxidant potential by DPPH assay. The binding capabilities of a compound 6 exhibiting good antibacterial potential were assessed on the basis of molecular docking studies and four types of three-dimensional molecular field descriptors. Moreover the structure–antimicrobial activity relationships were studied using some physicochemical and quantum-chemical parameters with GAMESS interface as well as WebMO Job Manager by using the basic level of theory. Hence, this synthetic approach is believed to provide a better scope for the synthesis of steroidal oxime-ether analogues and will be a more practical alternative to the presently existing procedures. Moreover, detailed in silico docking studies suggested the plausible mechanism of steroidal oxime-ethers as effective antimicrobial agents.2015-03-02T00:00:00ZPost-operative acute kidney injury in non-suprainguinal vascular surgery patients with a pre-operative history of hypertensionMoodley, YoshanBiccard, Bruce M.http://hdl.handle.net/2003/340412015-08-12T20:05:40Z2015-03-02T00:00:00ZTitle: Post-operative acute kidney injury in non-suprainguinal vascular surgery patients with a pre-operative history of hypertension
Authors: Moodley, Yoshan; Biccard, Bruce M.
Abstract: Hypertension is an independent predictor of acute kidney injury (AKI) in non-cardiac surgery patients. There are a few published studies which report AKI following non-suprainguinal vascular procedures, but these studies have not investigated predictors of AKI, including anti-hypertensive medications and other comorbidities, in the hypertensive population alone. We sought to identify independent predictors of post-operative AKI in non-suprainguinal vascular surgery patients with a pre-operative history of hypertension. We performed univariate (chi-squared, or Fisher’s exact testing) and multivariate (binary logistic regression) statistical analysis of prospectively collected data from 243 adult hypertensive patients who underwent non-suprainguinal vascular surgery (lower limb amputation or peripheral artery bypass surgery) at a tertiary hospital between 2008 and 2011 in an attempt to identify possible associations between comorbidity, acute pre-operative antihypertensive medication administration, and post-operative AKI (a post-operative increase in serum creatinine of ≥ 25 % above the pre-operative measurement) in these patients. The incidence of post-operative AKI in this study was 5.3 % (95 % Confidence Interval: 3.2-8.9 %). Acute pre-operative β-blocker administration was independently associated with post-operative AKI in non-suprainguinal vascular surgery patients with a pre-operative history of hypertension (Odds Ratio: 3.24; 95 % Confidence Interval: 1.03-10.25). The acute pre-operative administration of β-blockers should be carefully considered in non-suprainguinal vascular surgery patients with a pre-operative history of hypertension, in lieu of an increased risk of potentially poor post-operative renal outcomes.2015-03-02T00:00:00ZNootropic activity of Crataeva nurvala Buch-Ham against scopolamine induced cognitive impairmentBhattacharjee, AtanuShashidhara, Shastry ChakrakodiSaha, Santanuhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340402015-08-12T20:21:59Z2015-02-27T00:00:00ZTitle: Nootropic activity of Crataeva nurvala Buch-Ham against scopolamine induced cognitive impairment
Authors: Bhattacharjee, Atanu; Shashidhara, Shastry Chakrakodi; Saha, Santanu
Abstract: Loss of cognition is one of the age related mental problems and a characteristic symptom of neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s. Crataeva nurvala Buch-Ham, a well explored traditional Indian medicinal plant of Westernghats, is routinely used as folkloric medicine to treat various ailments in particular urolithiasis and neurological disorders associated with cognitive dysfunction. The objective of the study was to evaluate the nootropic activity of Crataeva nurvala Buch-Ham stem bark in different learning and memory paradigm viz. Elevated plus maze and Y-maze against scopolamine induced cognitive impairment. Moreover, to elucidate possible mechanism, we studied the influence of Crataeva nurvala ethanolic extract on central cholinergic activity via estimating the whole brain acetyl cholinesterase enzyme. Ethanolic extracts of Crataeva nurvala (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight) were administered to adult Wistar rats for successive seven days and the acquisition, retention and retrieval of spatial recognition memory was determined against scopolamine (1 mg/kg, i.p.) induced amnesia through exteroceptive behavioral models viz. Elevated plus maze and Y-maze models. Further, whole brain acetyl cholinesterase enzyme was estimated through Ellman’s method. Pretreatment with Crataeva nurvala ethanolic extract significantly improved spatial learning and memory against scopolamine induced amnesia. Moreover, Crataeva nurvala extract decreased rat brain acetyl cholinesterase activity in a dose dependent manner and comparable to the standard drug Piracetam. The results indicate that ethanolic extract of Crataeva nurvala might be a useful as nootropic agent to delay the onset and reduce the severity of symptoms associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. The underlying mechanism of action of its nootropic potentiality might be attributed to its anticholinesterase property.2015-02-27T00:00:00ZGrowth, physiology and yield of durum wheat (Triticum durum) treated with sewage sludge under water stress conditionsBoudjabi, SoniaKribaa, MohammedChenchouni, Harounhttp://hdl.handle.net/2003/340392015-08-12T20:24:09Z2015-02-26T00:00:00ZTitle: Growth, physiology and yield of durum wheat (Triticum durum) treated with sewage sludge under water stress conditions
Authors: Boudjabi, Sonia; Kribaa, Mohammed; Chenchouni, Haroun
Abstract: In arid and semi-arid areas, low soil fertility and water deficit considerably limit crop production. The use of sewage sludge as an organic amendment could contribute to the improvement of soil fertility and hence the agronomic production. The study aims to highlight the behaviour of durum wheat to the application of sewage sludge associated with water stress. The assessment focused on morphophysiological parameters of the wheat plant and yield. Under greenhouse conditions, the variety Mohamed Ben Bachir was treated by four water stress levels (100 %, 80 %, 50 % and 30 %). Each stress level comprised five fertilizer treatments: 20, 50 and 100 t/ha of dry sludge, 35 kg/ha of urea, and a control with no fertilization. Results revealed a significant loss in water content and chlorophyll a in leaves. Water stress negatively affected the development of wheat plants by reducing significantly seed yield, leaf area and biomass produced. Plant’s responses to water stress manifested by an accumulation of proline and a decrease in total phosphorus. However, the increasing doses of sewage sludge limited the effect of water stress. Our findings showed an increase in the amount of chlorophyll pigments, leaf area, total phosphorus, biomass and yield. In addition, excessive accumulation of proline (1.11 ± 1.03 μg/g DM) was recorded as a result of the high concentration of sludge (100 t/ha DM). The application of sewage sludge is beneficial for the wheat crop, but the high accumulation of proline in plants treated with high dose of sludge suggests to properly consider this fact. The application of sludge should be used with caution in soils where water is limited. Because the combined effect of these two factors could result in a fatal osmotic stress to crop development.2015-02-26T00:00:00Z