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Background: Developing contrast-associated acute kidney injury (CA-AKI) following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is closely related to patient-related risk factors as well as contrast administration. The diagnostic and prognostic roles of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) in CA-AKI following PCI are not well established. Methods: Consecutive patients undergoing PCI were enrolled prospectively. CA-AKI was defined as an increase in the serum creatinine level ≥0.3 mg/dL within 48 hours or ≥1.5 times the baseline within 7 days after PCI. Serum NGAL concentrations were determined immediately before and 6 hours after PCI. The participants were classified into four NGAL groups according to the pre- and post-PCI NGAL values at 75th percentile. Results: CA-AKI occurred in 38 (6.4%) of 590 patients. With chronic kidney disease status (hazard ratio [HR] 1.63, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.06–2.52), NGAL groups defined by the combination of pre- and 6 h post-PCI values were independently associated with the occurrence of CA-AKI (HR 1.69, 95% CI: 1.16–2.45). All-cause mortality for 29-month follow-ups was different among NGAL groups (log-rank p<0.001). Pre-PCI NGAL levels significantly correlated with baseline cardiac, inflammatory, and renal markers. Although post-PCI NGAL levels increased in patients with larger contrast administration, contrast media made a relatively limited contribution to the development of CA-AKI. Conclusion: In patients undergoing PCI, the combination of pre- and post-PCI NGAL values may be a useful adjunct to current risk-stratification of CA-AKI and long-term mortality. CA-AKI is likely caused by systemic reserve deficiency rather than contrast administration itself. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the role of the CXCR5 and TLR4 signaling pathways in the progression of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The researchers found that the up-regulation of CXCR5 and CXCL13 or CXCR5 and TLR4 in lung tumor tissues was associated with gene sets related to cancer, lung fibrosis, VEGF, chemokine, cytokine, and TLR signaling pathways. They also discovered that the CXCR5-CXCL13 axis is functionally linked to TLR4 signaling through activation of NF-κB, suggesting its potential as a target for therapeutic agents. The study provides valuable insights into the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying lung cancer progression and highlights the significance of the CXCR5-TLR4 signaling network in this process. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Free fatty acid receptors (FFARs) and toll-like receptors (TLRs) recognize microbial metabolites and conserved microbial products, respectively, and are functionally implicated in inflammation and cancer. However, whether the crosstalk between FFARs and TLRs affects lung cancer progression has never been addressed. Methods: We analyzed the association between FFARs and TLRs using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) lung cancer data and our cohort of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patient data (n = 42), and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was performed. For the functional analysis, we generated FFAR2-knockout (FFAR2KO) A549 and FFAR2KO H1299 human lung cancer cells and performed biochemical mechanistic studies and cancer progression assays, including migration, invasion, and colony-formation assays, in response to TLR stimulation. Results: The clinical TCGA data showed a significant down-regulation of FFAR2, but not FFAR1, FFAR3, and FFAR4, in lung cancer, and a negative correlation with TLR2 and TLR3. Notably, GSEA showed significant enrichment in gene sets related to the cancer module, the innate signaling pathway, and the cytokine-chemokine signaling pathway in FFAR2DownTLR2UpTLR3Up lung tumor tissues (LTTs) vs. FFAR2upTLR2DownTLR3Down LTTs. Functionally, treatment with propionate (an agonist of FFAR2) significantly inhibited human A549 or H1299 lung cancer migration, invasion, and colony formation induced by TLR2 or TLR3 through the attenuation of the cAMP-AMPK-TAK1 signaling axis for the activation of NF-κB. Moreover, FFAR2KO A549 and FFAR2KO H1299 human lung cancer cells showed marked increases in cell migration, invasion, and colony formation in response to TLR2 or TLR3 stimulation, accompanied by elevations in NF-κB activation, cAMP levels, and the production of C-C motif chemokine ligand (CCL)2, interleukin (IL)-6, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 2 cytokines. Conclusion: Our results suggest that FFAR2 signaling antagonized TLR2- and TLR3-induced lung cancer progression via the suppression of the cAMP-AMPK-TAK1 signaling axis for the activation of NF-κB, and its agonist might be a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of lung cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Clinical courses of acute myocarditis are heterogeneous in populations and geographic regions. There is a dearth of long-term outcomes data for acute myocarditis prior to the coronavirus disease pandemic, particularly in the older and female population. This study aimed to provide the nationwide epidemiologic approximates of clinically suspected acute myocarditis across adults of all ages over the long term. Methods: From the nationwide governmental health insurance database, a retrospective cohort comprised all patients aged 20–79 who were hospitalized for clinically suspected acute myocarditis without underlying cardiac diseases from 2006 to 2018. The complicated phenotype was defined as requiring hemodynamic or major organ support. Over 10 years, all-cause mortality and index event-driven excess mortality were evaluated according to young-adult (20–39 years), mid-life (40–59 years), and older-adult (60–79 years) age groups. Results: Among 2,988 patients (51.0±16.9 years, 46.2% women), 362 (12.1%) were of complicated phenotype. Of these, 163 (45.0%) had died within 1 month. All-cause death at 30 days occurred in 40 (4.7%), 52 (4.8%), and 105 (10.0%) patients in the young-adult, mid-life, and older-adult groups, respectively. For 10 years of follow-up, all-cause death occurred in 762 (25.5%). Even in young adult patients with non-complicated phenotypes, excess mortality remained higher compared to the general population. Conclusion: In hospitalized patients with clinically suspected acute myocarditis, short-term mortality is high both in young and older adults, particularly those with comorbidities and severe clinical presentation. Furthermore, excess mortality remains high for at least 10 years after index hospitalization in young adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reduction in face-to-face contact and the increase in time spent at home during the ongoing coronavirus disease pandemic have resulted in increasing interest and demand for smart homes. Further, the rapid increase in the number of one-person and two-person households in Korea recently has led to these becoming representative household types. This study identifies the wellness characteristics of such households and proposes a direction for smart home development to help them lead healthy, happy lives. It focuses on mapping residents' perceptions and experiences to scenarios and on identifying the functions required in smart homes and the technologies needed to provide these functions. It uses data from a survey to investigate and analyze the wellness characteristics of one- and two-person households in five dimensions and develops five scenarios of representative household types. By analyzing the developed scenarios, this study proposes smart homes that support the wellness of such households in six categories: exercise/sports, hobby/entertainment, social communications, occupation/work, self-development/education, and energy conservation. These households are exposed to digital environments from an early age and are familiar with the internet and technologies. Therefore, they are likely to adopt innovative technologies in housing. Thus, the smart home development proposed in this study is a promising strategic approach to housing planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microfluidic systems with large surface‐to‐volume ratios and superior light transmission are used to efficiently transfer mass and convert energy, and to enhance photocatalytic reactions. Utilizing the entire solar spectrum for promoting photocatalytic reactions is highly desirable and near‐infrared (NIR) radiation, in particular, has a high transmission efficiency through common polymers and materials used to construct microfluidic devices. Herein, a reliable microfluidic system using bimodal light‐harvesting technique is reported to improve the photocatalytic efficiency of C(sp3)‐H functionalization reactions using coumarin dye (C153) and lanthanide‐doped upconversion nanocrystals (UCNs). Using two light‐harvesting components (C153 and UCNs) in polycarbosilane polymer matrix, a bimodal light‐harvesting microfluidic reactor is realized in which the inner surface of the microfluidic channel is reliably coated with a transparent composite of C153/UCNs to simultaneously downshift visible light and upconvert NIR light. A double‐stacked microfluidic system that successfully enhanced the photocatalytic conversion efficiency of Rose Bengal‐based aza‐Henry photocatalytic reactions by twofold (≈93% conversion). The study provides a design principle of next‐generation microfluidic reactor for a robust photocatalytic organic synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among upregulated genes, 12 genes (Figure 2A and Table S18) in A549 cells and 21 genes (Figure 2B and Table S19) in H1299 cells have been involved in lung cancer progression. Eventually, autophagy and these cytokines facilitate TLR2-, TLR4- and TLR7-induced lung cancer progression gl In summary, CRBN is downregulated in lung cancer cells and associated with lung cancer progression (Figure 4E, upper right). Lastly, we found that I CRBN i KO A549 cells treated with TLR agonists significantly increased single-cell mobility and the number of colonies compared to those of Ctrl A549 cells (Figure 4A,B, single-cell mobility; Figure 4C,D, number of colonies). [Extracted from the article]

This review conducts a systematic analysis of a total of 90 Smart City articles from an urban context perspective based on the 'Urban Engagement and Impact Analytical Framework'. Many previous smart city reviews have been conducted through bibliometric analysis from a holistic viewpoint, finding the performance, trend and focused area of smart city research. Therefore, the principal objective of this review is to explore the gap in the adequacy of smart city research engagement with diverse urban contexts, to provide a smart urban environment focusing on Smart Urbanism. This paper highlights three principal aspects of each article; 1) Whose perspective that Smart City research mostly conducted by, 2) The depth of Urban context engagement conducted during Smart City development, 3) Which part of urban development is particularly affected by. These three dimensions are significant factors correlated to each other, that form healthy smart urbanism. By doing so, the findings from this review will lead the smart city research to a practical intervention in urban planning through engagement with the insightful urban contexts. This will offer a positive impact on developing a sustainable urban livelihood for the inhabitants by extending the view of the smart city development towards Smart urbanism within the urban context viewpoint. • In-depth urban contextual engagement is lacking in current Smart City research. • An Extension view of Smart City embracing balanced urban context is essential. • Taxonomy analytical framework is proposed for the review analysis. • The practical intervention urges for Smart City growth as urban planning. • Active engagement of scholars from architecture and urban planning is significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals are commonly released into the environment through industrial processes such as mining and refining. The rapid industrialization that occurred in South Korea during the 1960s and 1970s contributed significantly to the economy of the country; however, the associated mining and refining led to considerable environmental pollution, and although mining is now in decline in South Korea, the detrimental effects on residents inhabiting the surrounding areas remain. The bioaccumulation of toxic heavy metals leads to metabolic alterations in human homeostasis, with disruptions in this balance leading to various health issues. This study used metabolomics to explore metabolomic alterations in the plasma samples of residents living in mining and refining areas. The results showed significant increases in metabolites involved in glycolysis and the surrounding metabolic pathways, such as glucose-6-phosphate, phosphoenolpyruvate, lactate, and inosine monophosphate, in those inhabiting polluted areas. An investigation of the associations between metabolites and blood clinical parameters through meet-in-the-middle analysis indicated that female residents were more affected by heavy metal exposure, resulting in more metabolomic alterations. For women, inhabiting the abandoned mine area, metabolites in the glycolysis and pentose phosphate pathways, such as ribose-5-phosphate and 3-phosphoglycerate, have shown a negative correlation with albumin and calcium. Finally, Mendelian randomization(MR) was used to determine the causal effects of these heavy metal exposure-related metabolites on heavy metal exposure-related clinical parameters. Metabolite biomarkers could provide insights into altered metabolic pathways related to exposure to toxic heavy metals and improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the health effects of toxic heavy metal exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Moreover, 34 cancer suppressors genes were down-regulated in tumour tissues of the seven primary LUAD patients (Figure 2I, Table S8), and 18 genes were functionally associated with lung cancer (Figure 2I, green box; Table S8, green letters). Lung cancer progression is regulated by various extrinsic factors derived from tumour microenvironment as well as intrinsic factors.1 Recent studies have shown that toll-like receptors (TLRs) are expressed in lung cancers, suggesting that TLRs may be implicated in lung cancer progression.2,3 Although several studies have shown that stratifin ( I SFN i , 14-3-3 sigma) facilitated lung cancer development and progression,4-6 the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which I SFN i is functionally involved in lung cancer progression, and the role of I SFN i in lung cancer progression in response to extrinsic stimulation, such as TLR agonist, are largely unknown. Stratifin (SFN) regulates lung cancer progression via nucleating the Vps34-BECN1-TRAF6 complex for autophagy induction Importantly, the ubiquitination of BECN1 was markedly enhanced in the presence of SFN as compared to the absence of SFN (Figure 3F, lane 4 and 5 vs. lane 3), indicating that SFN nucleates the molecular association of TRAF6-BECN1 and enhances the ubiquitination of BECN1 (Figure 3G). [Extracted from the article]

The advancement in information and communication technologies (ICTs), the Internet of Things (IoT), machine learning (ML), and artificial intelligence (AI) have enabled the implementation of smart systems and interactive environments. Practitioners in the domains of architecture, engineering, and construction have conducted considerable research on smart homes and smart environments. The authors of [[1]] systematically characterize smart environments as interactive and collective platforms in a digital ecosystem by reviewing scholarly sources to understand intelligent environments from an architectural perspective. The authors of [[2]] performed a critical review of approaches to developing GD-BIM, allowing the analysis of the methodological relationships, skill requirements, and improvement strategies of GD-BIM systems. [Extracted from the article]

Kombucha biofilm, a microbial cellulose pellicle formed during kombucha fermentation, has gained increasing attention in the food industry because of its unique properties and potential uses. Although kombucha biofilms have shown promise in various food applications, their full potential remains unexplored. This comprehensive review explores various aspects of kombucha biofilms, including the associated terminology, microbial ecology, formation mechanisms, influencing factors, characteristics, and applications in non-food and food sectors. We investigate their potential for food applications and sustainable food product development. Despite their potential, we comply with the limitations of scientific evidence and technological innovations surrounding kombucha biofilms in the food industry. Further research is required to uncover innovative ways of utilizing kombucha biofilms for sustainable food product development. Kombucha biofilm formation is a complex process influenced by factors, such as microorganism composition, substrate conditions, environmental factors, and fermentation parameters. With an increasing understanding of their distinctive properties, kombucha biofilms have applications in various sectors. Although their use in food applications has been explored by several researchers, continued research and collaborative efforts are necessary to fully unlock their potential and drive their application in the food industry. [Display omitted] • Kombucha biofilms have high potential applications in the food industry. • The microbial ecology, influencing factors, and characteristics of kombucha biofilms were reviewed. • Kombucha biofilms have applications in environmental, fashion, health, and medical fields. • Kombucha biofilms are promising functional foods, packaging material, and nutrient supplements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both Curcuma longa (CL) and Citrus junos Tanaka (CJ) have been used to treat various diseases due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidative stress activities. In this study, we investigated the ameliorative effect of the combination of CL extract and CJ extract (CCC) against beta-amyloid (Aβ) peptide-induced neurological damage. CCC prevented neurocytotoxicity in vitro. In addition, it was confirmed that abnormal alternation behavior and memory impairment caused by Aβ peptide were reversed by treatment with CCC. Furthermore, CCC treatment led to recovery of the cholinergic system and reactive oxygen species (ROS) oxidative damage defense system. CCC induced expressions of cyclic-adenosine monophosphate response element-binding protein (CREB)-responsive element-binding protein and brain-derived neurotrophic factor were confirmed as was the significantly improved processing in the hippocampus of the mouse Aβ peptides. Accordingly, these results suggest that CCC can prevent and/or reverse neurocytotoxicity and cognitive deficits in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Angiogenesis plays a crucial role in tumor growth and metastasis. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-stimulated endothelial cell proliferation and migration are critical steps in tumor angiogenesis. Here, we investigated the anti-angiogenic activity of xanthorrhizol, a sesquiterpenoid isolated from the Indonesian medicinal plant Curcuma xanthorrhiza. Xanthorrhizol at noncytotoxic concentrations inhibited the proliferation, migration, and formation of capillary-like tubes in VEGF-treated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Xanthorrhizol inhibited the phosphorylation of Akt and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and the expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM)-1 and E-selectin in VEGF-treated HUVECs. The expression and transcriptional activity of NF- κ B were downregulated by xanthorrhizol in VEGF-treated HUVECs. Furthermore, xanthorrhizol significantly inhibited VEGF-induced angiogenesis in the chorioallantoic membrane of fertilized eggs and Matrigel plugs subcutaneously injected into mice. Xanthorrhizol inhibited tumor volume and tumor-derived angiogenesis in mice inoculated with breast cancer cells. The in vitro and in vivo anti-angiogenic activities of xanthorrhizol were as potent as those of curcumin, a well-known anticancer agent derived from C. longa. Taken together, xanthorrhizol inhibits VEGF-induced angiogenesis of endothelial cells by blocking the activation of the PI3K/Akt/eNOS axis and subsequent upregulation of adhesion molecules induced by the transcriptional activation of NF- κ B. Xanthorrhizol is a promising anti-angiogenic agent and can serve as a beneficial agent to enhance anticancer treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This report presents the improved mechano‐electric sustainability of Ag NWs network with enhanced crystallinity (c‐Ag NW) based on the systematic bending‐fatigue study of Ag NWs network and its application toward electronic device built on patterned electrode. First, the mechano‐electric stability of Ag NWs network film is found to be highly associated with their crystalline structural deformation, i.e., defects or dislocation density by externally applied strains. Based on this result, c‐Ag NWs are prepared by the solution based thermal annealing at 70 °C and integrated into c‐Ag NWs network film. By analyzing crystalline structures and nano‐morphologies, as‐formed c‐Ag NW network film exhibits enhanced crystallinity and reduced dislocation density. In the bending fatigue tests under application of strain (6.7%, bending radius: 1 mm) during the 200 000 cycles, c‐Ag NWs network film shows highly reduced (>500%) resistance change (ΔR/ΔRo: 45%) than that of pristine Ag NW network film (ΔR/ΔRo: 241%). In the application of c‐Ag NW network toward patterned electrode, the electrode demonstrates the comparable electrical property (9.41 kΩ) to that of ITO based one (8.01 kΩ) despite the reduced number of nanowires in 6 µm neck diamond electrode pattern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methylation induces epigenetic silencing of tumor suppressor genes in human lung cancer. Inhibition of DNA methyltransferases by decitabine (DAC) can demethylate and activate epigenetically silenced tumor suppressor genes. Epigenetic therapy using DAC should be an attractive strategy for lung cancer therapy. FBW7 is a tumor suppressor that functions as an Mcl-1 E3 ligase to degrade Mcl-1 by ubiquitination. Here we discovered that treatment of various human lung cancer cells with DAC resulted in activation of FBW7 expression, decreased levels of Mcl-1 protein, and growth inhibition. DAC-activated FBW7 expression promoted Mcl-1 ubiquitination and degradation leading to a significant reduction in the half-life of Mcl-1 protein. Mechanistically, treatment of lung cancer cells or lung cancer xenografts with DAC induced the conversion of the FBW7 gene from a methylated form to an unmethylated form, which was associated with the increased expression of FBW7 and decreased expression of Mcl-1 in vitro and in vivo. DAC suppressed lung cancer growth in a dose-dependent manner in vivo. Combined treatment with DAC and a Bcl2 inhibitor, venetoclax, exhibited strong synergistic potency against lung cancer without normal tissue toxicity. These findings uncover a novel mechanism by which DAC suppresses tumor growth by targeting the FBW7/Mcl-1 signaling pathway. Combination of DAC with Bcl2 inhibitor venetoclax provides more effective epigenetic therapy for lung cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic fibrosing interstitial lung disease with a poor prognosis similar to that of malignancy. The causes of IPF are not clearly known, and there is no effective therapy to date. In this study, the natural compound plumbagin, which was isolated from Plumbago rosea root extract, was screened for p300 inhibitory activity. Plumbagin specifically inhibited the activity of p300 toward histone acetyltransferases. Plumbagin treatment significantly suppressed transforming growth factor-β-induced profibrotic target-gene expression and proliferation of fibroblast cell lines. Moreover, plumbagin significantly inhibited bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice. Taken together, these data demonstrate the inhibitory effects of plumbagin on lung fibrosis and its promise as a therapeutic agent for IPF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The invasive alien leaf‐footed bug Leptoglossus gonagra (Fabricius 1775), native to the Americas, is herein recorded from South Korea for the first time. Forty nymphs and adults were collected on 22 September 2016 from arable lands of two separate sites. These individuals were identified based on the analysis of morphological characters and cytochrome oxidase c subunit 1 sequences. A neighbor‐joining tree indicated the existence of two clades: Group A from Brazil, and Group B from Asia and Oceania. Mean genetic distance between clades was 8.11%, range 7.60–8.57%. Within clades, mean genetic distance was 0.42% (0.17–0.83%) in Group A and, 0.45% (0.00–0.83%) in Group B. Colonies of 2nd‐final instar nymphs and adults were found, on top of leaves, flowers, fruits, and between the stems of pumpkins (Cucurbita moschata). Nymphs and adults damaged host plants by sucking their leaves, stems, fruits, and buds. After the first discovery in 2016, we were unable to find the bugs again (in 2017–2019). Therefore, the invasion of this species seems to have occurred only temporarily, during the warm season. We suggest that the species may have failed to overwinter as it is normally distributed in regions warmer than Korea. Nevertheless, possible appearances of this species must be continuously monitored as it is a potential pest of various plants cultivated in South Korea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of the partial replacement of Zn2+ ions with paramagnetic Co2+ ions on the physical properties of (CH 3 NH 3) 2 Zn 1- x Co x Cl 4 (x = 0, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, and 1) crystals are discussed. These crystals are grown using the slow evaporation method, and their structures and phase-transition temperatures are measured through X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry experiments. The structures and phase transition temperatures for cases, where x = 0.3 and 0.5, and x = 0.7 are similar to those for x = 0, and x = 1, respectively. In addition, the spin-lattice relaxation time, T 1ρ, in the rotating frame are measured for the 1H and 13C nuclei of the (CH 3 NH 3)+ cations to understand the molecular motions with respect to the Co2+ ion quantity. The molecular motions for 1H and 13C with x = 0.5 are similar to those with x = 0, whereas those with x = 0.7 are similar to the x = 1 case. The molecular motions of (CH 3 NH 3)+ ions bounded to the Co2+ layer through N–H⋯Cl bonds differ from those bounded to the Zn2+ ions. Image 104061 • Structure and phase transition temperature of (CH 3 NH 3) 2 Zn 1- x Co x Cl 4. • Effects of partial replacement of Zn2+ ions with Co2+ ions. • Molecular motions of (CH 3 NH 3)+ cations. • Spin-lattice relaxation time T 1ρ in the rotating frame. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: 2-Deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-D-glucose ([18F]FDG) accumulation in inflammatory lesions can confound the diagnosis of cancer. In this study, we investigated [18F]FDG accumulation and efflux in relation to the genes and proteins involved in glucose metabolism in murine inflammation and cancer models.Procedures: [18F]FDG accumulation and [18F]FDG efflux were measured in cancer cells (breast cancer, glioma, thyroid cancer, and hepatoma cells) and RAW 264.7 cells (macrophages) activated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The levels of mRNA expression were measured by real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR). The expression of glucose metabolism-related proteins was detected by western blotting. Dynamic [18F]FDG positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET/CT) images were acquired for 2 h in tumor-bearing BALB/c nude mice and inflammatory mice induced by turpentine oil.Results: [18F]FDG accumulation in MDA-MB-231 (breast cancer) increased with time, but that of HepG2 (hepatoma) reached a constant level after 120 min. [18F]FDG efflux in HepG2 was faster than that in MDA-MB-231. HepG2 strongly expressed glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase) compared with MDA-MB-231. [18F]FDG accumulation increased with time, and [18F]FDG efflux accelerated after the activation of RAW 264.7 cells. The expression levels of G6Pase, glucose transporter1 and glucose transporter3 (GLUT1 and GLUT3), and hexokinase II (HK II) increased after the activation of RAW 264.7 cells. [18F]FDG efflux in activated macrophages was faster than that in MDA-MB-231 cancer cells. MDA-MB-231 strongly expressed HK II protein compared with the activated RAW 264.7. In murine models, [18F]FDG accumulation in MDA-MB-231 cancer and inflammatory lesions increased with time, but that in HepG2 tumor increased until 20-30 min (SUVmeans ± SD (tumor/muscle), 3.0 ± 1.3) and then decreased (2.1 ± 0.9 at 110-120 min).Conclusions: There was no difference in the pattern of [18F]FDG accumulation with time in MDA-MB-231 tumors and inflammatory lesions. We found that [18F]FDG efflux accelerated in activated macrophages reflecting increased G6Pase expression after activation and lower expression of HK II protein than that in MDA-MB-231 cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Although glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) and hexokinase 2 (HK2) are known as major proteins involved in the molecular mechanisms for accumulating 2-deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-D-glucose ([18F]FDG) in cancer cells, sometimes, [18F] FDG accumulation cannot be explained by the expression of these two proteins. We investigated the involvement of adenine nucleotide translocase 2 (ANT2), which catalyzes ADP/ATP exchange at the mitochondrial inner membrane, in [18F] FDG accumulation.Procedures: ANT2 expression was evaluated in various cancer cell lines and human cancer tissues (microarrays) using western blot and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining, respectively. The expression levels of ANT2 were compared to [18F] FDG accumulation and pathologic findings, including differentiation grade. Additionally, we modulated ANT2 expression levels using ANT2 siRNA and an ANT2 expression vector in cancer cells and murine xenografted tumors.Results: [18F] FDG accumulation correlated with ANT2 expression in various cancer cell lines; this was not explained by GLUT1 and/or HK2 expression. At both the cell and tissue levels, ANT2 expression was high in less-differentiated or more malignant type of cancers. [18F] FDG accumulation changed according to the modulation of the ANT2 expression level.Conclusion: In various cancer cells and tissues, the expression levels of ANT2 explained [18F] FDG accumulation better than those of GLUT1 and HK2. ANT2 can be used as a marker of dedifferentiated pathology and aggressiveness of cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The effects of candesartan and irbesartan, antagonists of the type I angiotensin II receptor, were investigated on allergic asthma. The antigen-induced degranulation was measured by evaluating β-hexosaminidase activity in vitro. Additionally, a murine ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma model was used to test the in vivo efficacy. It was observed that while candesartan inhibited the antigen-induced degranulation in rat RBL-2H3 mast cells, irbesartan did not. Administration of candesartan and irbesartan decreased the number of immune cells in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and reduced the expression of Th2 (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13) and Th1 cytokines (IL-2 and IFN-γ) in the lung tissues of mice with ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma. Histological studies revealed that both antagonists reduced inflammation and mucin production in the lungs. Therefore, these findings provide evidence that candesartan and irbesartan could have potential applications as anti-allergic agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease accounts for the majority of dementia and shows hallmarks such as sequential cognitive dysfunction and abnormal behavior. Dendropanax morbifera (DM) has traditionally been used to treat a variety of diseases in East Asia. The aim of this study was to assess the therapeutic effects of DM on brain neuron damage and on cognitive deficit in neuronal cell induced by Aβ1–42 in mice. Treatment with DM reduced the levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species and protected against the death of neuronal cells induced by Aβ1–42 peptide. In addition, it was also found that pretreatment with DM decreased cognitive damage induced by Aβ peptide via enhancing the cholinergic system and antioxidant defense system in mice. Furthermore, the study verified that the change in the expression of both cyclic-adenosine monophosphate response element binding protein and of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in the hippocampus in Aβ peptide-treated mice was significantly ameliorated after treatment with DM. Accordingly, these results suggest that pretreatment with DM defends against oxidative stress and cognitive impairment caused by Aβ peptide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate bacterial communities and health-benefit-related parameters in doenjang prepared with various brine concentrations (8, 12, 16, and 20%). Phenolic, flavonoid, melanoidin and isoflavone contents, antioxidation, and antiproliferation of doenjang (AD8, AD12, AD16, and AD20) aged for 3 months were compared with those of initial doenjang (ID8, ID12, ID16, and ID20). The ID8 and AD8 doenjang , made with 8% brine, contained higher phenolics, melanoidins, and isoflavones than those with high salinity. As results of bacterial communities, Enterococcus was a dominant bacterium in most doenjang , while Lactobacillus was predominant in AD8. Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (32.5 µmol TE/g dwb) and DPPH radical-scavenging capacity (57 µmol TE/g dwb) values of AD8 were the highest among samples. The EC 50 of HT-29 cell proliferation treated with AD8 was 0.47 mg/mL, while EC 50 of AD20 was 1.07 mg/mL, indicating stronger antiproliferative activity in low-salinity doenjang . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the utilisation of immature wheat flour (IWF) as an alternative flour with antioxidant activity. Antioxidant properties and phenolic acid compositions of IWF and IWF madeleine were compared with those of commercial wheat flour (WF) and WF madeleine. Consumer perception of madeleine was studied using a blind test followed by an informed test, which provided information on antioxidant properties of flours. The bound ferulic acid in IWF (5.54 mg/100 g) was seven times higher than that in WF (0.74 mg/100 g). Oxygen radical absorbance capacity of IWF (34.47 µmol TE/g) and IWF madeleine (14.63 µmol TE/g) were higher than those of WF. The results of blind test showed that consumer acceptability and willingness to pay (WTP) of IWF madeleine were lower than those of WF madeleine. However, about 25% of consumers preferred IWF madeleine, implying small niche market for IWF as alternative flour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of this study were to investigate quality changes in whole flour of immature wheat (WFIW) stored during 24 wk at different temperatures (0, 25, 35 or 45 °C) and to develop Arrhenius models to predict its quality. Color coordinates a* and b*, α-amylase activity, falling number (FN), setback, and final viscosity as quality attributes of WFIW during storage were measured every 4 wk for 24 wk and the changes were kinetically modeled using the Arrhenius equation. The activation energy ( Ea ) of quality attributes was in the range of 23,000–70,000 kJ/mol and that for FN was the highest, which was 70,000 kJ/mol. Additionally, volatile compounds in WFIW and consumer acceptance of cookies baked with WFIW as an end-product were measured. Among the volatile compounds, the propan-2-one and hexanal dramatically increased in WFIW stored at relative high temperature (35 or 45 °C) for prolonged period. Consumer acceptance of cookies showed that consumers prefer cookies made with WFIW stored relatively low temperature (0–25 °C). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway is pivotal in controlling survival and apoptosis of cancer cells. Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), a cytokine that regulates the immune response and tumorigenesis under inflammatory conditions, is upregulated in various tumors. However, the intracellular functions of MIF are unclear. In this study, we found that MIF directly interacted with thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP), a tumor suppressor and known inhibitor of NF-κB activity, and MIF significantly induced NF-κB activation. MIF competed with TXNIP for NF-κB activation, and the intracellular MIF induced NF-κB target genes, including c -IAP2, Bcl-xL, ICAM-1, MMP2 and uPA, by inhibiting the interactions between TXNIP and HDACs or p65. Furthermore, we identified the interaction motifs between MIF and TXNIP via site-directed mutagenesis of their cysteine (Cys) residues. Cys 57 and Cys 81 of MIF and Cys 36 and Cys 120 of TXNIP were responsible for the interaction. MIF reversed the TXNIP-induced suppression of cell proliferation and migration. Overall, we suggest that MIF induces NF-κB activity by counter acting the inhibitory effect of TXNIP on the NF-κB pathway via direct interaction with TXNIP. These findings reveal a novel intracellular function of MIF in the progression of cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two perylenediimides ( PDIs), PT and PT2, functionalized with thiophene heterocycles on the 1,7-positions of the bay region were synthesized and utilized in inverted bulk-heterojunction ( BHJ) polymer solar cells as acceptors in the photoactive layer. The synthesized PDIs were thermally stable up to 453°C and soluble in chlorinated solvents such as dichloromethane and chloroform. PT or PT2 was blended with poly[4,8-bis(5-(2-ethylhexyl)thiophen-2-yl)benzo[1,2- b:4,5- b′]bithiophene- co-3-fluorothieno[3,4- b]thiophene-2-carboxylate] ( PCE -10) as a donor material. The inverted BHJ solar cell fabricated using the PCE -10: PT photoactive layer showed the highest power conversion efficiency ( PCE) of 2.06%. Film morphology studies of PCE -10: PDI blends revealed a relationship between the film nanostructure and device performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radioiodine whole body scan (WBS), related to sodium iodide symporter (NIS) function, is widely used to detect recurrence/metastasis in postoperative patients with thyroid cancer. However, the normal thymic uptake of radioiodine has occasionally been observed in young patients. We evaluated the expression of thyroid-related genes and proteins in the human thymus. Thymic tissues were obtained from 22 patients with thyroid cancer patients of all ages. The expression of NIS, thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor (TSHR), thyroperoxidase (TPO), and thyroglobulin (Tg) was investigated using immunohistochemistry and quantitative RT-PCR. NIS and TSHR were expressed in 18 (81.8%) and 19 samples (86.4%), respectively, whereas TPO was expressed in five samples (22.7%). Three thyroid-related proteins were localized to Hassall’s corpuscles and thymocytes. In contrast, Tg was detected in a single patient (4.5%) localized to vascular endothelial cells. The expression of thyroid-related proteins was not increased in young thymic tissues compared to that in old thymic tissues. In conclusion, the expression of NIS and TSHR was detected in the majority of normal thymus samples, whereas that of TPO was detected less frequently, and that of Tg was detected rarely. The increased thymic uptake of radioiodine in young patients is not due to the increased expression of NIS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new quinoxaline-based electron-accepting building block with thieno[3,2- b ]thiophene side chains was synthesized and copolymerized with the alkoxy-substituted benzodithiophene (BDT) donor building block to obtain poly[(4,8-bis[(2-butyloctyl)oxy]-benzo[1,2- b :4,5- b ′]dithiophene)- alt -(2,3-bis(5-octylthieno[3,2- b ]thiophene-2-yl)-5,8-di(thiophen-2-yl)quinoxaline)] (PBDT- TTDTQx) copolymer. To compare the effect of the addition of the thieno[3,2- b ]thiophene side chain in the quinoxaline moiety, an analogous copolymer with a thienyl side chain in the quinoxaline unit was also synthesized to yield the poly[(4,8-bis[(2-butyloctyl)oxy]-benzo[1,2- b :4,5- b ′]dithiophene)- alt -(2,3-bis(5-octylthiophene-2-yl)-5,8-di(thiophen-2-yl)quinoxaline)] (PBDT-TDTQx) copolymer. The optical, electrochemical, morphological, and photovoltaic properties of the two polymers were investigated. Bulk heterojunction photovoltaic devices were fabricated using the polymers as a p-type donor and [6,6]-phenyl C 71 -butyric acid methyl ester (PC 71 BM) as the n-type acceptor. The power conversion efficiencies of the devices fabricated using PBDT-TTDTQx and PBDT-TDTQx are 3.42 and 2.26%, respectively. The replacement of the alkylthienyl moiety with thieno[3,2- b ]thiophene on quinoxaline could expand the UV–visible absorption range due to extended π-conjugation and also enhance the crystallinity of the polymer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate health benefit-related parameters such as antioxidant contents and antiproliferative activities in immature wheat compared to mature wheat. Immature and mature wheats were harvested 35 and 45 days after the heading date, respectively; steamed immature wheat was also tested. The phenolic, flavonoid and vitamin E contents of immature and steamed immature wheat were compared with those of mature wheat. Additionally, antiproliferative activities against colon cancer cells (HT-29 and Caco-2) and cervical cancer cells (HeLa) were evaluated in three samples. The immature wheat contained higher phenolic and flavonoid contents but lower vitamin E contents than mature wheat. The antioxidant capacity, as measured by oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), was higher in immature wheat than in other samples. In the antiproliferation assays, immature wheat had the lowest EC 50 values in HT-29 (39.3 mg/mL) and HeLa (31.4 mg/mL) cells, indicating stronger antiproliferative activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Residents’ illnesses related to new houses have recently become a popular topic for Sick Building Syndrome research. Compared to the research dealing with symptoms experienced by residents in newly built houses, little attention has been paid to the healthy life of residents in old houses. Thus, we investigate residents’ experience of healthy life in two apartment complexes that have been in service for different amounts of time and ascertain whether any difference exists between them. It is generally believed that the energy efficiency of old apartments has decreased, and thus residents’ comfort and health in such apartments would deteriorate according to the apartments’ service life. This study aims to obtain an insight into residents’ perceived experience in older apartments. We use three survey methods for the investigation and analyze the data from the residents’ perspective. The results show that the physical properties of the apartments do not have much influence on the residents’ perceived comfort and health; further, energy efficiency does not affect their perceived comfort and health either. The critical influencing factor for residents’ discomfort is the indoor temperature, not any of the other physical conditions of the apartments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The onset and progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is closely associated with amyloidβ(Aβ) peptide-induced cytotoxicity and abnormal protein transportation caused by breakdown of endoplasmic reticulum (ER)–Golgi apparatus trafficking network. Although the fragmentation of Golgi apparatus has been reported in AD human patients and various AD model animals, the molecular mechanisms causing the morpho-functional impairments of Golgi apparatus during AD progression remain poorly understood. Thus, we investigated the ultrastructure of Golgi apparatus and coat protein I (COPI) expression inβ-amyloid precursor protein/presenilin-1 double transgenic mouse and Aβ-stimulated BV-2 cell as an AD model using cryo-immunogold electron microscopy. In the neurons of the hippocampus of transgenic mouse and BV-2 cell, the cisternae of Golgi stacks were fragmented in difference with that of wild type mouse and cells. In addition, we further showed the COPI depletion in Golgi apparatus, which demonstrated the impairment of molecular integrities of Golgi apparatus. Taken together, our results provide insights into the Golgi apparatus-involved morphopathology of AD and we suggest that the Golgi fragmentation is caused by the depletion of COPI affecting the intra-Golgi transport through stimulation and accumulation of Aβduring AD development. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

A design studio is a critical venue for design students, as they are educated to develop design thinking and other skills through studio courses. This article introduces a design studio project in which Korean and Malaysian students worked jointly for one semester to design affordable urban housing. The Korean students were interior design majors and the Malaysian students were architecture majors; thus it was thought that the students' areas of expertise were likely to differ. It was also anticipated that the students would display cultural differences in terms of housing and planning practices. The motive for starting the joint design studio was the idea that a cross-cultural collaborative working setting could redefine students' thinking styles and stimulate students to obtain non-routine perspectives on the design of buildings and spaces. Through observation and interviews, we explored how students tackled affordable housing problems within the context of cross-cultural and interdisciplinary design education. Collaborative learning in a joint studio situation supplemented students' expertise, re-orienting approaches to design and opening up a holistic approach to the design issues of affordability, sustainability and community. Overall, the practical learning in the joint studio project validated the importance of exploring alternative solutions based on varied levels of information, and input of those from different educational and cultural backgrounds. The cross-cultural and interdisciplinary collaboration allowed for a previously unavailable enhancement of design education by encouraging students to obtain divergent thinking for innovative design ideas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cytoplasmic C-terminal domain of amyloid-β protein precursor (AβPP) binds to several proteins that regulate the trafficking and processing of AβPP and affects amyloid-β (Aβ) production. We previously reported that levels of AT-motif binding factor 1 (ATBF1) are increased in the brains of 17-month-old Tg2576 mice compared with wild-type controls, and that Aβ42 increases ATBF1 expression, inducing death in primary rat cortical neurons. Here, we show that ATBF1 levels are increased in the cytoplasm of hippocampal neurons in Alzheimer's disease (AD) brains compared with non-AD brains. Furthermore, cotransfection of human embryonic kidney (HEK293T) and human neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) cells with ATBF1 and AβPP695 increased steady-state levels of AβPP via the binding of ATBF1 to the AβPP cytoplasmic domain (amino acids 666-690), resulting in increased Aβ production and cellular and soluble AβPP (sAβPP) levels without affecting the activity or levels of AβPP processing enzymes (α-, β-, or γ-secretase). Conversely, knockdown of endogenous ATBF1 reduced levels of cellular AβPP, sAβPP, and Aβ in HEK293 cells overexpressing human AβPP695. Our findings provide insight into the dynamics of AβPP processing and Aβ production, and suggest that ATBF1 is a novel AβPP binding protein that may be a suitable therapeutic target for AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyphenol oxidase ( PPO) activity, hue angle, chroma and browning index ( BI) of alkaline electrolyzed ( EO) water-treated apples were compared with apples treated with other anti-browning agents (ascorbic acid, citric acid and sodium metabisulfite). Alkaline EO water was shown to reduce PPO activity by about 66%. Apples treated in alkaline EO water for 5 min had less reduction on hue angle (97.0-91.1) after 24-h storage than apples treated with deionized water (93.4-83.7) and hence less brown. Apples treated in alkaline EO water also had lower BI (40.8) after 24 h than ascorbic acid-treated apples (47.6). Alkaline EO water when combined with other anti-browning agents to treat apple was more effective on preventing browning than with the individual anti-browning agents alone. This study demonstrated that alkaline EO water can be a promising treatment solution to prevent browning and thereby enhance the quality of fresh-cut apples. Practical Applications The prevention of browning in fresh-cut produce is important for maintaining the quality of minimally processed products. A lot of anti-browning agents were used to prevent the enzymatic browning. However, some anti-browning compounds are associated with potential health hazards. Therefore, the use of natural anti-browning agents is still needed to produce healthy products with high quality. The anti-browning properties observed in alkaline electrolyzed ( EO) water suggested that it can be a promising treatment solution to prevent browning and thereby enhance the quality of fresh-cut apples. Alkaline EO water is environment friendly, safe for human contact and can be produced on site when needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] The existing studies in this area adopt mostly quantitative methods, so there is a lack of qualitative evaluation regarding users’ interaction with green buildings. [•] Our research aims to develop a method for evaluating green building performance, which includes user experience. [•] We conducted a case study to evaluate the performance of a KGBC-certified green apartment. [•] We have used a customized method, with a focus on user-oriented factors, to present the results. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] This study aims to obtain an insight into the effect of residents’ behaviors on energy use. [•] In-depth interviews were conducted to investigate the residents’ energy use behaviors. [•] The service life of buildings do not affect much energy consumption. [•] Energy conservation behaviors have more effect on energy consumption. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Orientia tsutsugamushi is an intracellular parasite that causes scrub typhus. After entering the cytoplasm by induced phagocytosis, O. tsutsugamushi escapes from the primary phagosome into the host cytosol, where it replicates slowly. Subsequently, it is released from the host cells by a process resembling viral budding with a remaining bacterial aggregate near the nucleus. Lipid rafts have been implicated in the life cycle of a wide variety of pathogenic microorganisms. We have observed that proteins of O. tsutsugamushi were co-fractionated with the lipid rafts over a sucrose density gradient, suggesting the possible involvement of lipid rafts during the intracellular life cycle of O. tsutsugamushi. The entry of O. tsutsugamushi into the host cells was shown to be independent on lipid rafts as judged by the inability of lipid raft-disrupting agents to inhibit bacterial entry and no co-localization of bacterial proteins with caveolin. To our interest, a 47-kDa protein (HtrA) was observed to be co-localized with caveolin at the cell membrane at 72 h after infection, when bacterial particles move to the cell membrane and initiate the exit into the extracellular environment. Our results suggest that O. tsutsugamushi involves lipid rafts of the host cells in the budding-like process to exit from host cells. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Research on augmented reality has mostly explored technical options; thus, currently, there is a limited understanding of human experiences with digitally augmented environments in mobile devices. Through the reviews of related works, this paper proposes a novel concept of context immersion, with the key features emphasizing the potential of augmented reality embodied in smart phones. The framework of the context immersion is structured around a combination of three dimensions, time and location-based context, object-based context and user-based context, where users can experience immersion in augmented environments, but still be connected to a real context in the physical world. A customized questionnaire was developed based on the factors of the context immersion, and the experience of creating a digital exhibition was presented as a case study to illustrate the utility of context immersion as an analytical tool for mobile augmented reality applications. Through understanding the user experience in mobile digital exhibitions, crucial components of context immersion were identified for the design and implementation of mobile augmented reality. Finally, implications of the results and the direction for the development of mobile augmented reality are presented. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Augmented Reality (AR) has the potential to change how people interact and experience their surrounding environment. During the last decade a considerable amount of research has been undertaken within the built environment. With this in mind, this paper aims to provide a state-of-the-art review of mainstream studies undertaken between 2005 and 2011 within the normative literature. We found that a total of 120 articles were published in the normative built environment literature within this period. Articles were classified according to their concept and theory, implementation, evaluation (effectiveness and usability) and industrial adoption. The classification of the literature has enabled gaps in the AR literature to be identified and future research directions to be proposed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Most of the studied organic dyes for dye-sensitized solar cell have exhibited low photovoltage due to fast charge recombination. Here, we report on synthetic strategy of organic dye to get high photovoltage. Phenothiazine (PTZ) moieties are incorporated between electron donating triphenylamine (D) and electron accepting cyanoacrylic acid (A) to enhance non-planarity. Compared to one PTZ incorporation (D-PTZ-A), hypsochromic shift in absorption is observed by incorporation of two PTZs (D-PTZ1–PTZ2-A) due to transition from HOMO-1 to LUMO as confirmed by density functional theory (DFT) calculation. D-PTZ1–PTZ2-A shows higher photovoltage (0.804V) than D-PTZ-A (0.781V), those which are even higher than that of the ruthenium-based N719-snesitized one (0.775V). Little difference in electron transport rate is observed for PTZ derivatives and N719, while electron life time is increased in the order of D-PTZ1–PTZ2-A > D-PTZ-A > N719. Retardation of electron recombination is responsible for the high photovoltage, which is associated with bent conformation induced by PTZ spacer group. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Purpose: To evaluate the effects of two major polymorphisms of CYP2C9, CYP2C9*3 and CYP2C9*13, on the pharmacokinetics of irbesartan in healthy Korean volunteers. Methods: A single 150-mg oral dose of irbesartan was given to 28 Korean volunteers, who had different CYP2C9 genotypes (12, 10, and 6 carriers of CYP2C9*1/*1, *1/*3, and *1/*13 genotypes respectively). Irbesartan levels were analyzed using HPLC fluorescence in plasma samples collected up to 36 h after the drug intake. Results: Compared with CYP2C9*1 homozygous subjects, not only were the maximum plasma concentrations (C) of irbesartan in CYP2C9*1/*3 and *1/*13 subjects 1.56- and 1.50-fold higher ( P = 0.001), but the half-lives were also 1.38- and 1.50-fold longer ( P = 0.001). The area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) was 1.64- and 1.79-fold higher ( P < 0.001). The oral clearance of irbesartan was 39.3% and 44.0% lower in the CYP2C9*1/*3 and *1/*13 subjects respectively, than in the *1/*1 subjects ( P < 0.001). Likewise, the increases in half-life and decreases in oral clearance observed in CYP2C9*1/*13 individuals were similar to those in participants expressing the CYP2C9*1/*3 genotype. Conclusions: CYP2C9 genetic polymorphisms markedly affected the pharmacokinetics of irbesartan in this study sample. The CYP2C9*3 and CYP2C9*13 alleles appear to be associated with the decreased metabolism of irbesartan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lornoxicam is extensively metabolized by CYP2C9, and a CYP2C9*13 is one of the principal variant alleles in East Asian populations. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of CYP2C9*1/*13 on the pharmacokinetic parameters of lornoxicam in healthy individuals. A single oral dose of 8 mg lornoxicam was given to 22 Korean volunteers with different CYP2C9 genotypes (8, 8 and 6 carriers of CYP2C9*1/*1, *1/*3 and *1/*13 genotypes, respectively). Lornoxicam and 5′-hydroxylornoxicam levels were analysed using HPLC-UV in plasma samples collected up to 24 hr after taking the drug. In individuals with CYP2C9*1/*13, lornoxicam had a higher Cmax ( p < 0.001), a longer half-life ( p < 0.001), a lower oral clearance ( p < 0.001) and a higher area under the plasma concentration-time curve from zero to infinity (AUCinf) than in CYP2C9*1/*1 individuals ( p < 0.001). The Cmax and AUCinf of 5′-hydroxylornoxicam were lower in CYP2C9*1/*13 individuals than in CYP2C9*1/*1 individuals, but the half-life of 5′-hydroxylornoxicam did not differ between the two groups. The half-life, oral clearance and AUCinf of lornoxicam were similar in individuals with CYP2C9*1/*13 and those with CYP2C9*1/*3. The Cmax, half-life and AUCinf of 5′-hydroxylornoxicam were also similar in both groups, although Cmax was higher in CYP2C9*1/*13 individuals ( p < 0.01). A CYP2C9*1/*13 genotype markedly reduced the conversion of lornoxicam to 5′-hydroxylornoxicam, to a similar extent as that observed with the CYP2C9*1/*3 genotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper presents and evaluates two current advancements of collaborative technologies for architectural design. The paper focuses on technologies that support synchronous design collaboration, in particular, 3D virtual worlds for supporting remote design collaboration, and tangible user interfaces (TUIs) for enhancing co-located design collaboration. Both technologies enable designers to collaborate by interacting with 3D models as the design representations. The paper analyzes the effect of these technologies on design collaboration and cognition through a comprehensive interpretation of the results from two independent studies. These two studies, using protocol analysis and each focusing on a different mode of design collaboration, provide the foundation for characterizing the designers'' cognition, communication and interaction when using the new technologies. The 3D virtual worlds study investigates remote design collaboration in a 3D virtual world in order to understand the changes of design behavior when designers are physically remote but virtually co-located as avatars within their design representation in the form of a 3D model. The TUI study measures the effect of a tabletop system that integrates TUIs together with augmented reality (AR) on designers'' cognitive activities and design process in co-located design collaboration. Finally, the analysis and comparison of the results converge in a set of recommendations for the future development of collaborative design technologies. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The generation of oxygen free radicals and oxidative damage is believed to be involved in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders. Eriobotrya japonica has been used to treat several diseases in East Asia. In this study, we investigated the protective effect of an E. japonica extract against Aβ peptide-induced oxidative stress. The 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay demonstrated that the E. japonica extract scavenged approximately 40% of DPPH radicals. Also, treatment of the E. japonica extract inhibited Aβ1–42-mediated neuronal cell death. Furthermore, treatment of E. japonica extract efficiently suppressed the increase in intracellular ROS triggered by the Aβ1-42 peptide. Importantly, mice pre-treated with the E. japonica extract showed restoration of alternation behavior and reversal of Aβ1-42-induced memory impairment. Consequently, the E. japonica extract substantially inhibited the increase in lipid peroxidation and restored superoxide dismutase activity. These results suggest that E. japonica protects from oxidative stress and cognitive deficits induced by the Aβ peptide. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress pathway known as the Unfolded Protein Response (UPR) is an adaptive survival pathway that protects cells from the buildup of misfolded proteins, but under certain circumstances it can lead to apoptosis. ER stress has been causally associated with macrophage apoptosis in advanced atherosclerosis of mice and humans. Because atherosclerosis shares certain features with tuberculosis (TB) with regard to lesional macrophage accumulation, foam cell formation, and apoptosis, we investigated if the ER stress pathway is activated during TB infection. Principal Findings: Here we show that ER stress markers such as C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP; also known as GADD153), phosphorylated inositol-requiring enzyme 1 alpha (Ire1α) and eukaryotic initiation factor 2 alpha (eIF2α), and activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) are expressed in macrophage-rich areas of granulomas in lungs of mice infected with virulent Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). These areas were also positive for numerous apoptotic cells as assayed by TUNEL. Microarray analysis of human caseous TB granulomas isolated by laser capture microdissection reveal that 73% of genes involved in the UPR are upregulated at the mRNA transcript level. The expression of two ER stress markers, ATF3 and CHOP, were also increased in macrophages of human TB granulomas when assayed by immunohistochemistry. CHOP has been causally associated with ER stress-induced macrophage apoptosis. We found that apoptosis was more abundant in granulomas as compared to non-granulomatous tissue isolated from patients with pulmonary TB, and apoptosis correlated with CHOP expression in areas surrounding the centralized areas of caseation. Conclusions: In summary, ER stress is induced in macrophages of TB granulomas in areas where apoptotic cells accumulate in mice and humans. Although macrophage apoptosis is generally thought to be beneficial in initially protecting the host from Mtb infection, death of infected macrophages in advanced granulomas might favor dissemination of the bacteria. Therefore future work is needed to determine if ER-stress is causative for apoptosis and plays a role in the host response to infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The root of Angelica gigas Nakai contains two major coumarins, which have been previously identified as decursin and decursinol. Decursin has been demonstrated to exhibit potent anti-cancer activity both in vitro and in vivo. In this study, we found that decursin and decursinol at non-cytotoxic doses inhibited the VEGF-induced proliferation, migration, and capillary-tube formation of HUVECs. Moreover, decursin and decursinol suppressed microvessel formation on chorioallantoic membranes in fertilized eggs and into mouse Matrigel plugs. The oral administration of decursin and decursinol also reduced VEGF-induced angiogenesis in Matrigel. Furthermore, decursin and decursinol reduced the phosphorylation of ERK and JNK, but not p38 MAPK, in VEGF-stimulated HUVECs. Taken together, our results reveal that decursin and decursinol inhibit VEGF-induced angiogenesis by reducing the activation of ERK and JNK in HUVECs, and possess potent in vivo anti-angiogenic activity, coupled with the advantage of oral dosing. Thus, these compounds may have the potential for the treatment of cancers dependent on VEGF-induced vascularization. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Amyloid beta peptide (Aβ)-induced oxidative stress may be linked to neurodegenerative disease. Ethanol extracts of Rosa laevigata protected PC12 cells from hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress. (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) reduction assays revealed a significant increase in cell viability when oxidatively stressed PC12 cells were treated with R. laevigata extract. The effect of R. laevigata on oxidative stress-induced cell death was further investigated by lactate dehydrogenase release assays and trypan blue exclusion assays. Administration of 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid dinonyl ester from R. laevigata extract to mice infused with Aβ significantly reversed learning and memory impairment in behavioural tests. After behavioural testing, the mice were sacrificed and brains were collected for the examination of lipid peroxidation, catalase activity and acetylcholinesterase (AchE) activity. These results suggest that 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid dinonyl ester from R. laevigata extract may be able to reduce Aβ-induced neurotoxicity, possibly by reducing oxidative stress. Therefore, R. laevigata extract may be useful for the prevention of oxidative stress-induced neurodegenerative disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]