bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of serum tumor markers with interstitial lung disease in patients with or without connective tissue disease: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Xu Fei , Cui Wenqaing , Wei Ying , Dong Jingcheng , Liu Baojun
Published: June 2018

Background: Serum markers, such as Krebs von den Lungen-6 (KL-6), are reported to reflect the severity, progression and prognosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). We aimed to evaluate whether tumor markers could improve the diagnosis of connective tissue diseases (CTDs) and predict CTD-related interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) (CTD–ILD); and whether there was a significant difference between ILD patients with CTD and without CTD (non-CTD–ILD).

Methods: In this study, 146 patients with ILD only, 61 with CTD–ILD, 102 with lung cancer (LC), 111 with COPD, and 46 with CTD were enrolled. Serum levels of several tumor markers were collected.

Results: Compared with COPD, the serum levels of CEA, NSE, CYFRA21-1, CA19-9 and CA125 were higher, but the level of SCC was lower; meanwhile, there were significant differences in NSE, SCC, CYFRA21-1 and CA125 between CTD–ILD and non-CTD–ILD groups.

Conclusions: It appears that tumor-associated antigens may be the predictive factors for CTD–ILD that could be used to identify CTD from ILD before it is detected on autoimmune symptoms or auto-antibodies. However, further studies are needed to validate our findings and determine whether serum tumor markers have prognostic value or predict progressive CTD–ILD.
A Novel c.91dupG JAG1 Gene Mutation Is Associated with Early Onset and Severe Alagille Syndrome
Authors: Reyes-de la Rosa Alejandra del Pilar , Varela-Fascinetto Gustavo , García-Delgado Constanza , Vázquez-Martínez Edgar Ricardo , Valencia-Mayoral Pedro , Cerbón Marco , Morán-Barroso Verónica Fabiola
Published: June 2018

Alagille syndrome (MIM 118450) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by paucity of intrahepatic bile ducts, chronic cholestasis, pulmonary stenosis, butterfly-like vertebrae, posterior embryotoxon, and dysmorphic facial features. Most cases are caused by JAG1 gene mutations. We report the case of a 2-year-old Mexican mestizo patient with Alagille syndrome, having exhibited jaundice and cholestatic syndrome as of three weeks of age. Sequencing analysis of the JAG1 gene revealed the novel heterozygous mutation c.91dupG that originates a truncated protein and therefore a possibly diminished activation of the Notch signaling pathway. The latter may explain the severe phenotype of the patient. Since the mutation was not identified in the parents, it was considered a de novo event, highlighting the importance of molecular diagnosis and genetic counseling. In conclusion, this report widens the spectrum of JAG1 gene mutations associated with Alagille syndrome.
Global Attractivity and Extinction of a Discrete Competitive System with Infinite Delays and Single Feedback Control
Authors: Xue Yalong , Xie Xiangdong , Lin Qifa , Chen Fengde
Published: June 2018

A nonautonomous discrete two-species competition system with infinite delays and single feedback control is considered in this paper. Based on the discrete comparison theorem, a set of sufficient conditions which guarantee the permanence of the system is obtained. Then, by constructing some suitable discrete Lyapunov functionals, some sufficient conditions for the global attractivity and extinction of the system are obtained. It is shown that, by choosing some suitable feedback control variable, one of two species will be driven to extinction.
Existence of a Short-Run Equilibrium of the Dixit-Stiglitz-Krugman Model
Authors: Tabata Minoru , Eshima Nobuoki
Published: June 2018

Each short-run equilibrium of the Dixit-Stiglitz-Krugman model is defined as a solution to the wage equation when the distributions of workers and farmers are given functions. We extend the discrete nonlinear operator contained in the wage equation as a set-valued operator. Applying the Kakutani fixed-point theorem to the set-valued operator, under the most general assumptions, we prove that the model has a short-run equilibrium.
The Mechanical Properties of a Novel STMR Damper Based on Magnetorheological Silly Putty
Authors: Lin Xiao-Guo , Guo Fei , Du Cheng-Bin , Yu Guo-Jun
Published: June 2018

A novel shear thickening magnetorheological (STMR) damper with both speed locking and semiactive controlling properties was designed and fabricated based on multifunctional smart composite materials which was defined as magnetorheological Silly Putty (MRSP). The rate sensitive property and magnetorheological effect of MRSP samples were analyzed by using a rheometer to select the best filler for the STMR damper. The mechanical properties of the STMR damper were investigated through slow, fast, and dynamic experiments. The experimental results indicate that the STMR damper exhibits an obvious rate sensitive characteristic and semiactive control property. On one hand, when the STMR damper is simulated fast enough, it can realize the “speed switch” function, which enables it to instantly lock up and act as a shock transmission unit (STU). On the other hand, when the STMR damper is applied with current, the damping force can be adjusted by magnetic field strength to realize its semiactive controlling property. In addition, a multiparameter and symmetry model was established to describe the dynamic hysteretic behavior of the STMR damper, which is consistent with the experimental data.
Antileishmanial and Immunomodulatory Effect of Babassu‐Loaded PLGA Microparticles: A Useful Drug Target to Leishmania amazonensis Infection
Authors: Silva Mayara Cristina Pinto da , Brito Jefferson Mesquita , Ferreira Amalia dos Santos , Vale Andre Alvares Marques , Santos Ana Paula Azevedo dos , Silva Lucilene Amorim , Pereira Paulo Vitor Soeiro , Nascimento Flavia Raquel Fernandes , Nicolete Roberto , Guerra Rosane Nassar Meireles
Published: June 2018

The immunological and the anti-Leishmania amazonensis activity of babassu‐loaded poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) [PLGA] microparticles was evaluated. The anti‐Leishmania activity was evaluated against promastigotes or amastigotes forms, in Balb/c macrophages. The size of the microparticles ranged from 3 to 6.4 μm, with a zeta potential of −25 mV and encapsulation efficiency of 48%. The anti‐Leishmania activity of the PLGA microparticles loaded with the aqueous extract of babassu mesocarp (MMP) (IC50) was 10‐fold higher than that free extract (Meso). MMP exhibited overall bioavailability and was very effective in eliminating intracellular parasites. MMP also reduced ex vivo parasite infectivity probably by the increased production of nitric oxide, hydrogen peroxide, and TNF‐α indicating the activation of M1 macrophages. The overexpression of TNF‐α did not impair cell viability, suggesting antiapoptotic effects of MMP. In conclusion, babassu‐loaded microparticles could be useful for drug targeting in the treatment of leishmaniasis, due to the immunomodulatory effect on macrophage polarization and the increased efficacy as an anti‐Leishmania product after the microencapsulation. These findings are of great relevance since the development of new drugs for the treatment of neglected diseases is desirable, mainly if we consider the high morbidity and mortality rates of leishmaniasis worldwide.
Stop Plan of Express and Local Train for Regional Rail Transit Line
Authors: Luo Qin , Hou Yufei , Li Wei , Zhang Xiongfei
Published: June 2018

The urban rail transit line operating in the express and local train mode can solve the problem of disequilibrium passenger flow and space and meet the rapid arrival demand of long-distance passengers. In this paper, the Logit model is used to analyze the behavior of passengers choosing trains by considering the sensitivity of travel time and travel distance. Then, based on the composition of passenger travel time, an integer programming model for train stop scheme, aimed at minimizing the total passenger travel time, is proposed. Finally, combined with a certain regional rail line in Shenzhen, the plan is solved by genetic algorithm and evaluated through the time benefit, carrying capacity, and energy consumption efficiency. The simulation result shows that although the capacity is reduced by 6 trains, the optimized travel time per person is 10.34 min, and the energy consumption is saved by about 16%, which proves that the proposed model is efficient and feasible.
C-Kit Cardiac Progenitor Cell Based Cell Sheet Improves Vascularization and Attenuates Cardiac Remodeling following Myocardial Infarction in Rats
Authors: Dergilev K. , Tsokolaeva Z. , Makarevich P. , Beloglazova I. , Zubkova E. , Boldyreva M. , Ratner E. , Dyikanov D. , Menshikov M. , Ovchinnikov A. , Ageev F. , Parfyonova Ye.
Published: June 2018

The adult heart contains small populations of multipotent cardiac progenitor cells (CPC) that present a convenient and efficient resource for treatment of myocardial infarction. Several clinical studies of direct CPC delivery by injection have already been performed but showed low engraftment rate that limited beneficial effects of procedure. «Cell sheet» technology has been developed to facilitate longer retention of grafted cells and show new directions for cell-based therapy using this strategy. In this study we hypothesized that СPC-based cell sheet transplantation could improve regeneration after myocardial infarction. We demonstrated that c-kit+ CPC were able to form cell sheets on temperature-responsive surfaces. Cell sheet represented a well-organized structure, in which CPC survived, retained ability to proliferate, expressed progenitor cell marker Gata-4 formed connexin-43+ gap junctions, and were surrounded by significant amount of extracellular matrix proteins. Transplantation of cell sheets after myocardial infarction resulted in CPC engraftment as well as their proliferation, migration, and differentiation; cell sheets also stimulated neovascularization and cardiomyocyte proliferation in underlining myocardium and ameliorated left ventricular remodeling. Obtained data strongly supported potential use of CPC sheet transplantation for repair of damaged heart.
Pharmacoacupuncture for Idiopathic Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Cho Ki-Ho , Kim Tae-Hun , Jung Woo-Sang , Moon Sang-Kwan , Ko Chang-Nam , Cho Seung-Yeon , Jeon Chan-Yong , Choi Tae Young , Lee Myeong Soo , Lee Sang-Ho , Chung Eun Kyoung , Kwon Seungwon
Published: June 2018

Introduction. Pharmacoacupuncture is a new acupuncture treatment that stimulates acupuncture points by injecting herbal medicine into them. Recently, pharmacoacupuncture has been widely used in the treatment of idiopathic Parkinson’s disease in traditional East Asian medicine. The purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmacoacupuncture in the treatment of idiopathic Parkinson’s disease. Methods. The following electronic databases were searched for studies published in or before December 2016: Medline, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), EMBASE, OASIS, and CNKI, without language restriction. The main outcome assessed was the total Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) score. The details of the pharmacoacupuncture intervention, such as the herbal medicine and acupuncture points used, were also investigated. Results. From 138 studies, 3 randomized controlled trials were included; the number of patients analyzed was 134. Most of the studies showed considerable methodological flaws. There was heterogeneity of the intervention type and treatment duration in the included studies. Therefore, we could not conduct a meta‐analysis. In one study, adjunctive bee venom pharmacoacupuncture therapy significantly improved total UPDRS scores compared with conventional therapy alone. Another study, which used adjunctive Kakkonein pharmacoacupuncture, did not reveal significant improvement compared with conventional therapy alone. A third study reported that Mailuoning pharmacoacupuncture was able to significantly improve the modified Webster Symptom Score when compared with no treatment. Adverse events related to the pharmacoacupuncture were reported in only one case, itching caused by the bee venom. Conclusions. Our findings regarding the efficacy of pharmacoacupuncture as a therapy for idiopathic Parkinson’s disease are currently inconclusive. Further large and rigorous clinical trials are needed.
Establishment and Characterization of a Highly Metastatic Ovarian Cancer Cell Line
Authors: Ruibin Jiang , Guoping Cheng , Zhiguo Zheng , Maowei Ni , Danying Wan , Jianguo Feng , Linhui Gu
Published: June 2018

Ovarian cancer leads the worst prognosis among all types of gynecologic malignancies, and patients are often diagnosed at an advanced stage. Ovarian cancer also has a high rate of metastasis; however, the detailed mechanisms for ovarian cancer prone to metastasis remain unclear. In this study, we used continuous in vitro screening of the human ovarian cancer A2780 cell line to establish a cell line (A2780-M) which shows high invasiveness and motility. Compared to the parental cells, A2780-M cells express elevated protein levels of CD44, CD133, CD34, andβ-catenin. A2780-M cells are also more resistant to chemotherapeutic agents SN-38 and Docetaxel. Thus, the A2780-M cell line is a new ovarian metastatic cancer cell line that expresses tumor stem cell surface markers and adhesion-related membrane proteins and is with higher motility and invasiveness.
A Fractional‐Order System with Coexisting Chaotic Attractors and Control Chaos via a Single State Variable Linear Controller
Authors: Zhou Ping , Ke Meihua , Zhu Peng
Published: June 2018

A 3D fractional‐order nonlinear system with coexisting chaotic attractors is proposed in this paper. The necessary condition of the existence chaos is q ≥ 0.8477. The fractional‐order system exhibits chaotic attractors with the order as low as 2.5431. The largest Lyapunov exponent varying as fractional order q is given. Furthermore, there are the coexisting “positive attractor” and “negative attractor” in this fractional‐order chaotic system, and the necessary condition for “positive attractor” and “negative attractor” is obtained. Meanwhile, a control scheme for the stabilization of the unstable equilibrium is suggested via a single state variable linear controller. Numerical results show that the control scheme is valid.
Aucubin Protects against Myocardial Infarction‐Induced Cardiac Remodeling via nNOS/NO‐Regulated Oxidative Stress
Authors: Yang Zheng , Wu Qing-Qing , Xiao Yang , Duan Ming Xia , Liu Chen , Yuan Yuan , Meng Yan-Yan , Liao Hai Han , Tang Qi-Zhu
Published: June 2018

Whether aucubin could protect myocardial infarction‐ (MI‐) induced cardiac remodeling is not clear. In this study, in a mouse model, cardiac remodeling was induced by left anterior descending coronary artery ligation surgery. Mice were intraperitoneally injected with aucubin (10 mg/kg) 3 days post‐MI. Two weeks post‐MI, mice in the aucubin treatment group showed decreased mortality, decreased infarct size, and improved cardiac function. Aucubin also decreased cardiac remodeling post‐MI. Consistently, aucubin protected cardiomyocytes against hypoxic injury in vitro. Mechanistically, we found that aucubin inhibited the ASK1/JNK signaling. These effects were abolished by the JNK activator. Moreover, we found that the oxidative stress was attenuated in both in vivo aucubin‐treated mice heart and in vitro‐treated cardiomyocytes, which caused decreased thioredoxin (Trx) consumption, leading to ASK1 forming the inactive complex with Trx. Aucubin increased nNOS‐derived NO production in vivo and vitro. The protective effects of aucubin were reversed by the NOS inhibitors L‐NAME and L‐VINO in vitro. Furthermore, nNOS knockout mice also reversed the protective effects of aucubin on cardiac remodeling. Taken together, aucubin protects against cardiac remodeling post‐MI through activation of the nNOS/NO pathway, which subsequently attenuates the ROS production, increases Trx preservation, and leads to inhibition of the ASK1/JNK pathway.
Vertical Shaft Support Improvement Studies by Strata Grouting at Aquifer Zone
Authors: Yu Qing , Yin Kexin , Ma Jinrong , Shimada Hideki
Published: June 2018

The shaft lining failure which occurs in deep alluvium is a sudden coal mine hazard. The strata grouting is one of the treatment methods for the shaft lining failure. To investigate the impact of grout injection pressure on the shaft lining, the field measurement and the numerical analysis of the shaft lining stress variation during the grouting were conducted. To improve the strata grouting, the underground continuous impervious curtain (UCIC) is proposed as a new method by using the chain conveyor cutter technique without the impact on the shaft lining. The effects of the new method were also analyzed by means of the numerical methods. The results show that the strata grouting in the deep alluvium needs a high injection pressure, and in the horizontal direction, the shaft lining sustains the repeat tensile and compressive force during the grouting process. The negative influence of strata grouting on the stability of the shaft lining is obvious and serious. The UCIC built around the shaft lining can restrain the stress concentration induced by the aquifer drawdown. The triangular UCIC has a similar effect as that of the vertical one, and the small angle is better for preventing the shaft lining failure.
Xijiao Dihuang Decoction Alleviates Ischemic Brain Injury in MCAO Rats by Regulating Inflammation, Neurogenesis, and Angiogenesis
Authors: Fei Xiaojun , Zhang Xu , Wang Qi , Li Jingbo , Shen Hao , Wang Xuanye , Liu Hongquan , Tao Weiwei
Published: June 2018

Ischemic stroke is an increasingly important public health problem, and no effective treatments are approved. Xijiao Dihuang Decoction (XDD), a famous herbal formula for treating hemorrhagic fever syndromes, has been shown to exert powerful neuroprotective property. The aim of this study was to identify the chemical constituents in XDD, observe the neuroprotective effect of XDD against acute ischemic stroke, and explore the specific mechanisms by which these effects were mediated. With UHPLC‐Q/TOF‐MS, 47 components in XDD were detected and 25 of them were identified. In rats subjected to MCAO, XDD ameliorated neurological deficit, histopathology changes, and infarction volume. In addition, levels of TNF‐ɑ, IL‐6, and IL‐1β in XDD‐treated group were significantly lower compared to the model group. Mechanistic studies showed that XDD inhibited MCAO‐induced NF‐κB activation, presenting as downregulating the expression of phospho‐NF‐κB p65 and preventing IκBɑ degradation. Besides, BDNF, GDNF, VEGF, bFGF, and CD34 levels were significantly increased by XDD, suggesting that the protective effects of XDD may also be associated with the promotion of neurogenesis and angiogenesis. In conclusion, these findings provided a novel regulatory pathway of the neuroprotective effect of XDD that helped rehabilitate patients with stroke.
Tou Nong San Attenuates Inflammation in TNBS‐IBD Model by Inhibiting NF‐κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Hu Zhipeng , Yang Maoyi , Ye Qiaobo , Qin Kaihua , Wu Mingquan , Gu Rui , Zhou Yingguang
Published: June 2018

The incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which predominantly comprises Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, is increasing worldwide. However, the treatment of IBD still faces great challenges. The involved NF‐κB is the main signaling pathway in human IBD and thus is a prime target. There is abundant evidence that Tou Nong San (TNS), which is a traditional Chinese medicinal decoction used for treating sores and carbuncles, has a positive effect on the inflammation. This study investigated the effects of oral administration of TNS on colitis induced by 2,4,6‐trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS) and the underlying mechanism(s). Quality control of the major compounds in TNS was performed by high‐performance liquid chromatography, and six chemical constituents were identified in aqueous extracts. TNS led to improvements in weight loss and water and food intake in rats. The macroscopic and microscopic scores of rat tissues greatly decreased. Protein and mRNA levels of proinflammatory cytokines, including interleukin‐17 (IL‐17), tumour necrosis factor‐α, IL‐1β, and IL6, involved in the NF‐κB signaling pathway were greatly reduced. The results suggest that the anti‐inflammatory effect of TNS is associated with the regulation of the NF‐κB signaling pathway, which contributes to the network pharmacological effect of TNS on human IBD in clinical practice.
The Effects of Induction and Treatment of Intracranial Hypertension on Cerebral Autoregulation: An Experimental Study
Authors: de Lima Oliveira Marcelo , Salinet Angela Macedo , Nogueira Ricardo de Carvalho , Belon Alessandro Rodrigo , Paiva Wellingson Silva , Jeng Brasil Chian Ping , Teixeira Manoel Jacobsen , Bor-Seng-Shu Edson
Published: June 2018

Background. This study aimed to analyse cerebral autoregulation (CA) during induction and treatment of intracranial hypertension (ICH) in an experimental model. Materials and Methods. Landrace and Duroc piglets were divided into mild and severe ICH groups. Four or seven millilitres of saline solution was infused into paediatric bladder catheter inserted in the parietal lobe (balloon inflation). After 1.5 h, a 3% saline solution was infused via venous catheter, and 30 min later, the bladder catheter balloon was deflated (surgery). The cerebral static autoregulation (sCA) index was evaluated using cerebral blood flow velocities (CBFV) obtained with Doppler ultrasound. Results. Balloon inflation increased ICP in both groups. The severe ICH group showed significantly lower sCA index values (p=0.001, ANOVA) after balloon inflation (ICH induction) and a higher sCA index after saline injection (p=0.02) and after surgery (p=0.04). ICP and the sCA index were inversely correlated (r=−0.68 and p<0.05). CPP and the sCA index were directly correlated (r=0.74 and p<0.05). Conclusion. ICH was associated with local balloon expansion, which triggered CA impairment, particularly in the severe ICH group. Moreover, ICP-reducing treatments were associated with improved CA in subjects with severe ICH.
Seismic Response Characteristics of Stabilizing Pile Based on Elastic‐Plastic Analysis
Authors: Qu Honglue , Liu Ying , Luo Hao , Hu Huanguo , Hu Qindi
Published: June 2018

Stabilizing pile is widely used in the landslide controlling projects and shows excellent seismic performance under the action of earthquake. Therefore, in order to improve seismic design theory, it is of importance to study the seismic response characteristics of stabilizing pile based on elastic‐plastic analysis. In view of this, elastic‐plastic constitutive model was established to deduce the plastic zone of stabilizing pile. Based on elastic‐plastic analysis, the seismic response characteristics and the influence of different section sizes, material strengths, and peak ground motion acceleration (PGA) were analyzed by ANSYS 3D. Resultantly, the elastic‐plastic fourth‐order tensor was deduced, which can be used to calculate plastic strain of stabilizing pile under loading. Compared with Chinese code, the material of stabilizing pile working with elastic‐plastic state will be decreased under the same section size and the same property. Furthermore, stabilizing pile is in the elastic stage at the beginning under the action of earthquake. With the increase of ground motion time, the section starts to exhibit elastic‐plastic state and then the plastic zone expands gradually. Finally, the plastic zone runs through the whole section, resulting in the performance loss of the pile. In addition, under the different design parameters, pile shows different seismic response characteristics; namely, changing these parameters reasonably can improve the seismic design.
Andrographolide Ameliorates Diabetic Cardiomyopathy in Mice by Blockage of Oxidative Damage and NF‐κB‐Mediated Inflammation
Authors: Liang Ershun , Liu Xue , Du Zhanhui , Yang Ruixue , Zhao Yuxia
Published: June 2018

Andrographolide (Andro), a major bioactive component obtained from Andrographis paniculata Nees, has exerted wide antioxidant as well as cytoprotective properties. However, whether Andro treatment could retard the progress of diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) remains unknown. In this study, we evaluated the effects of Andro against diabetes‐induced myocardial dysfunction and explored the underlying mechanism in STZ‐induced diabetic mice. As a result, treatment with Andro dose dependently suppressed cardiac inflammation and oxidative stress, accompanied by decreasing cardiac apoptosis, which subsequently ameliorated cardiac fibrosis and cardiac hypertrophy. Further, Andro blocked hyperglycemia‐triggered reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation by suppressing NADPH oxidase (NOX) activation and augmenting nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) expression both in vitro and in vivo. Our results suggest that the cardioprotective effects afforded by Andro treatment involve the modulation of NOX/Nrf2‐mediated oxidative stress and NF‐κB‐mediated inflammation. The present study unravels the therapeutic potential of Andro in the treatment of DCM by attenuating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis.
Shock Energy Conversion from Translation to Rotation
Authors: Zhou Hongyuan , Wang Xiaojuan , Zhang Xuejian
Published: June 2018

To protect structures from short duration shock load in various engineering applications, a novel energy conversion mechanism with concept design is proposed. Different from conventional methods with cellular solid/structure dissipating input translational kinetic energy to plastic strain energy with large compressive deformation, the proposed approach converts part of incident translational kinetic energy to rotational kinetic energy, which is not detrimental to the protected structure. The mechanism of energy conversion is analyzed and formulated, with key factors governing the conversion efficiency identified and discussed, which sheds light on alternative approach for short duration load mitigation.
Perspectives on Structural, Physiological, Cellular, and Molecular Responses to Desiccation in Resurrection Plants
Authors: Neeragunda Shivaraj Yathisha , Barbara Plancot , Gugi Bruno , Vicré-Gibouin Maïté , Driouich Azeddine , Ramasandra Govind Sharatchandra , Devaraja Akash , Kambalagere Yogendra
Published: June 2018

Resurrection plants possess a unique ability to counteract desiccation stress. Desiccation tolerance (DT) is a very complex multigenic and multifactorial process comprising a combination of physiological, morphological, cellular, genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolic processes. Modification in the sugar composition of the hemicellulosic fraction of the cell wall is detected during dehydration. An important change is a decrease of glucose in the hemicellulosic fraction during dehydration that can reflect a modification of the xyloglucan structure. The expansins might also be involved in cell wall flexibility during drying and disrupt hydrogen bonds between polymers during rehydration of the cell wall. Cleavages by xyloglucan-modifying enzymes release the tightly bound xyloglucan-cellulose network, thus increasing cell wall flexibility required for cell wall folding upon desiccation. Changes in hydroxyproline-rich glycoproteins (HRGPs) such as arabinogalactan proteins (AGPs) are also observed during desiccation and rehydration processes. It has also been observed that significant alterations in the process of photosynthesis and photosystem (PS) II activity along with changes in the antioxidant enzyme system also increased the cell wall and membrane fluidity resulting in DT. Similarly, recent data show a major role of ABA, LEA proteins, and small regulatory RNA in regulating DT responses. Current progress in “-omic” technologies has enabled quantitative monitoring of the plethora of biological molecules in a high throughput routine, making it possible to compare their levels between desiccation-sensitive and DT species. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of structural, physiological, cellular, molecular, and global responses involved in desiccation tolerance.
Developing Viscosity Modelling for Traditional Liquids in Egypt
Authors: Sabry Aliaa , Abdelghany Amr M. , Coyle James L. , El-Mitwalli Ashraf , Abou-Elsaad Tamer
Published: June 2018

Objectives: The aim of this study was to develop a low-cost methodology for preparing different thickened liquids with different consistencies and viscosities that mimic the viscosities of culturally relevant traditional Egyptian liquids, which can be easily used in the fiberoptic-endoscopic evaluation of swallowing. Materials and Methods: The textures of 9 traditional Egyptian liquids were quantified with the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) Flow Test and spanned the entire range of the IDDSI scale. We then developed texture-modified fluids that matched each dietary fluid texture for endoscopic dysphagia assessment using a regionally available, inexpensive, starch-based thickening agent. Results: Our results indicate simple methods of assuring that fluids used during swallowing testing with endoscopy can be matched to dietary fluids to ensure appropriate dietary prescriptions for people with dysphagia. The changes in the thickness and viscosity of the prepared liquid samples were detected and studied separately. The measured samples include some traditional Egyptian fluids (molokhia, lentil soup) in addition to commercially available fluids and pudding. Conclusion: The method can be applied to develop thickened liquids with different consistencies to model the traditional, naturally thickened liquids in Egypt and many other developing countries.
Reduced Prevalence of Severe Intraventricular Hemorrhage in Very Preterm Infants Delivered after Maternal Preeclampsia
Authors: Morsing Eva , Maršál Karel , Ley David
Published: June 2018

Background: Very preterm (VPT) delivery after severe preeclampsia (PE) has been associated with adverse perinatal outcome. It is unclear whether fetal exposure to PE per se modifies the prevalence of neonatal morbidities associated with VPT birth. Objectives: To evaluate neonatal morbidity in VPT infants exposed to maternal PE compared to morbidity in nonexposed VPT infants. Methods: This retrospective study consisted of all inborn infants delivered before 30 gestational weeks admitted to a tertiary-level neonatal intensive care unit between 1998 and 2014: 195 infants exposed to maternal PE were compared to 957 infants without maternal PE (background group). Prevalence rates of neonatal morbidity, cerebral palsy (CP), and mortality at 2 years of age were obtained from patient records. Results: The PE group had a lower median (IQR) birth weight (795 [262] g) and a higher median gestational age (GA) (27 [3] weeks) at birth than the background group (890 [385] g and 26 [3] weeks, respectively; both p < 0.001). Exposure to maternal PE was associated with lower rates of severe intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) (2 vs. 11%), retinopathy of prematurity requiring treatment (2 vs. 7%), mortality (9 vs. 15%), and CP (4 vs. 8%). Exposure to PE remained associated with a reduced prevalence of severe IVH (OR 0.17, 95% CI 0.05–0.57) after adjustment for GA, multiple birth, Apgar score, delivery mode, sex, and antenatal steroid treatment. Conclusion: Fetal exposure to PE is associated with a decreased rate of severe IVH following VPT birth. Studies on underlying mechanisms may provide a basis for prevention of IVH in the VPT infant.
Survival of Immunoglobulins from Human Milk to Preterm Infant Gastric Samples at 1, 2, and 3 h Postprandial
Authors: Demers-Mathieu Veronique , Underwood Mark A. , Beverly Robert L. , Dallas David C. 
Published: June 2018

Background: Human milk immunoglobulins (Ig) are an important support for the naïve infant immune system; yet the extent to which these proteins survive within the infant digestive tract, particularly for preterm infants, is poorly studied. Objectives: Our objective was to evaluate the survival of human milk Igs in the preterm stomach across postprandial time. Methods: Human milk and infant gastric samples were collected from 11 preterm (23–32 weeks gestational age) mother-infant pairs within 7–98 days postnatal age. Preterm gastric samples were collected 1, 2, and 3 h after the beginning of the feeding. Samples were analyzed for concentration of total IgA (secretory IgA [SIgA]/IgA), total secretory component (SC/SIgA/SIgM), total IgM (SIgM/IgM), and IgG via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Ig-chain fragment peptides were determined using peptidomic analysis. One-way analysis of variance with repeated measures followed by Tukey’s multiple comparison tests was applied. Results: Concentrations of total IgA were lower in the gastric contents at 3 h postprandial compared with human milk and gastric contents at 1 and 2 h. Human milk SC/SIgA/SIgM, IgG, and total IgM concentrations remained stable in the preterm stomach across postprandial time. Peptide counts from the Ig alpha-chain and the Ig gamma-chain increased in gastric contents from 1 to 2 h postprandial. Peptide counts from the human milk Ig-chain, Ig-chain, and SC were stable across postprandial time. These peptides from Ig-chains were not present in human milk but were released in the stomach due to their partial degradation. Conclusions: Human milk total SC (SIgA/SC/SIgM), total IgM, and IgG survived mostly intact through the preterm infant stomach, while total IgA was ­partially digested.
Acute Small Bowel Perforation Caused by Obstruction of a Novel Tag-Less AgileTM Patency Capsule
Authors: Sawai Katsuji , Goi Takanori , Takegawa Yumi  , Ozaki Yoshihiko , Taguchi Seiichi  , Kurebayashi Hidetaka , Suto Hiroyuki
Published: June 2018

A 74-year-old man visited our hospital complaining of abdominal pain. An abdominal computed tomography scan showed multiple wall thickness of the small bowel. Capsule endoscopy was recommended for further evaluation, and patency capsule examination was performed. Eighteen hours after patency capsule ingestion, he experienced small bowel perforation with severe peritonitis caused by intestinal pressure rising because of the patency capsule trapped in his terminal ileum. An ileocolic resection was performed, including the removal of the sclerotic ileum as an emergency surgery. A pathological examination showed transmural inflammation and multiple ulcers with perforation of the small intestine, consistent with Crohn’s disease. Here, we report a rare and valuable case of novel tag-less AgileTM patency capsule (Given Imaging Ltd., Yoqneam, Israel) retention leading to small bowel perforation.
Association of Nesfatin-1, Acylated Ghrelin and Cortisol with Scores of Compulsion, Food Addiction, and Binge Eating in Adults with Normal Weight and with Obesity
Authors: Lopez-Aguilar Itzel , Ibarra-Reynoso Lorena del Rocio , Malacara Juan Manuel
Published: June 2018

Background/Aims: The alterations of eating behavior are insufficiently recognized in the clinical attention of adults with obesity. The objective of this study was to examine the characteristics of overeating behavior and its association with depression, perceived stress, acylated ghrelin, nestafin-1, and cortisol. Methods: This cross-sectional comparative study included 80 participants with obesity and 50 with normal weight. The volunteers completed questionnaires to evaluate symptoms of food addiction (FA), obsessive compulsive, binge eating (BE), depression, and perceived stress. We measured glucose, lipids, acylated ghrelin, nesfatin-1, and insulin in a fasting blood sample as well as urine cortisol. We compared groups with students t test, and analysis of variance, and tested associations by logistic and multiple regression. Results: By multiple regression, the BE total score was positively associated with the FA (p < 0.0001) and depression total score (p < 0.0001). By logistic regression, the positive score of FA was associated with ghrelin (p < 0.02). The perceived stress total score was associated negatively with cortisol (p < 0.0006). Conclusion: The BE and FA are strongly associated in agreement with the concept that both conditions have overlapping features. Depressive symptoms are associated with symptoms of disordered eating ­behavior. FA positive score was associated with ghrelin. BE total score was associated with nesfatin-1.
Emerging Role of High Mobility Group Box-1 in Thrombosis-Related Diseases
Authors: Wu Han , Li Ran , Pei Li-Gang , Wei Zhong-Hai , Kang Li-Na , Wang Lian , Xie Jun , Xu Biao
Published: June 2018

High mobility group box-1 (HMGB-1), a typical damage-associated molecular pattern protein released from various cells, was first identified in 1973. It is usually stored in the nuclei of cells. Several modifications of HMGB-1 promote its translocation to the cytosol, and it is actively or passively released from cells. When outside of the cells, HMGB-1is crucial in inflammation. It exerts its biological functions via interaction with its receptors, including receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) and Toll-like receptor 4(TLR4). A large number of studies showed a close link between inflammation and thrombosis. This review demonstrated the increased expression of HMGB-1 in thrombosis-related diseases, including coronary artery disease, stroke, peripheral arterial disease, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and venous thrombosis. Besides, it summarized the current understanding of the emerging link between HMGB-1 and thrombosis from three aspects: platelet, NETs, and coagulation and fibrinolysis factors. Finally, it explored the possible therapeutic strategies targeting HMGB-1 for treating thrombosis-related diseases.
Generation and Role of Oscillatory Contractions in Mouse Airway Smooth Muscle
Authors: Xu Hao , Zhao Ping , Zhang Wen-Jing , Qiu Jun-Ying , Tan Li , Liu Xiao-Cao , Wang Qian , Luo Xi , She Yu-Shan , Zang Dun-An , Liu Bei-Bei , Cao Lei , Zhao Xiao-Xue , Chen Yuan-Yuan , Li Meng-Yue , Shen Jinhua , Peng Yong-Bo , Xue Lu , Yu Meng-Fei , Chen Weiwei , Ma Li-Qun , Qin Gangjian , Liu Qing-Hua
Published: June 2018

Background/Aims: Tetraethylammonium chloride (TEA) induces oscillatory contractions in mouse airway smooth muscle (ASM); however, the generation and maintenance of oscillatory contractions and their role in ASM are unclear. Methods: In this study, oscillations of ASM contraction and intracellular Ca2+ were measured using force measuring and Ca2+ imaging technique, respectively. TEA, nifedipine, niflumic acid, acetylcholine chloride, lithium chloride, KB-R7943, ouabain, 2-Aminoethoxydiphenyl borate, thapsigargin, tetrodotoxin, and ryanodine were used to assess the mechanism of oscillatory contractions. Results: TEA induced depolarization, resulting in activation of L-type voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels (LVDCCs) and voltage-dependent Na+ (VNa) channels. The former mediated Ca2+ influx to trigger a contraction and the latter mediated Na+ entry to enhance the contraction via activating LVDCCs. Meanwhile, increased Ca2+-activated Cl- channels, inducing depolarization that resulted in contraction through LVDCCs. In addition, the contraction was enhanced by intracellular Ca2+ release from Ca2+ stores mediated by inositol (1,4,5)-trisphosphate receptors (IP3Rs). These pathways together produce the contractile phase of the oscillatory contractions. Furthermore, the increased Ca2+ activated the Na+-Ca2+ exchanger (NCX), which transferred Ca2+ out of and Na+ into the cells. The former induced relaxation and the latter activated Na+/K+-ATPase that induced hypopolarization to inactivate LVDCCs causing further relaxation. This can also explain the relaxant phase of the oscillatory contractions. Moreover, the depolarization induced by VNa channels and NCX might be greater than the hypopolarization caused by Na+/K+-ATPase alone, inducing LVDCC activation and resulting in further contraction. Conclusions: These data indicate that the TEA-induced oscillatory contractions were cooperatively produced by LVDCCs, VNa channels, Ca2+-activated Cl- channels, NCX, Na+/K+ ATPase, IP3Rs-mediated Ca2+ release, and extracellular Ca2+.
Circulating Tumor DNA as a Sensitive Marker in Patients Undergoing Irreversible Electroporation for Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Lin Mao , Alnaggar Mohammed , Liang Shuzhen , Chen Jibing , Xu Kecheng , Dong Shihua , Du Duanming , Niu Lizhi
Published: June 2018

Background/Aims: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, resulting in extremely poor 5-year survival. Late diagnosis of PDAC is mainly due to lack of a reliable method of early detection. Carbohydrate antigen (CA) 19-9 is often used as a tumor biomarker in PDAC; however, the test lacks sensitivity and specificity. Therefore, new sensitive and minimally invasive diagnostic tools are required to detect pancreatic cancer. Methods: Here, we investigated circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) which contained KRAS-mutated as a potential diagnostic tool for PDAC patients who underwent irreversible electroporation (IRE). We used droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) to detect the expression of KRAS-mutated genes in plasma samples of 65 PDAC patients who underwent IRE. Results: In these 65 cases, ctDNA was detected in 20 (29.2%) samples. The median overall survival (OS) was 11.4 months with ctDNA+ patients and 14.3 months for ctDNA- patients. ctDNA+ patients had a obviously poorer prognosis associated to overall survival (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Our results suggested that the existence of ctDNA was a predictor of survival for PDAC patients. Therefore, ctDNA may be a new sensitive biomarker for monitoring treatment outcome in PDAC.
Muscidae (Diptera) of medico-legal importance associated with ephemeral organic substrates in seasonally dry tropical forests
Authors: Barbosa Ticiano Moura , Vasconcelos Simão Dias
Published: June 2018

Muscidae (Diptera) comprises one of the most important taxa in medical, veterinary and forensic entomology, especially due to their association with decomposing carcasses and cadavers. Yet, knowledge on their distribution and behaviour is still incipient in several biomes, which is the case of dry tropical forests. This study aimed to evaluate the attractiveness of different organic substrates to species of Muscidae in areas of seasonally dry forests (Caatinga) in Northern Brazil. Sampling was carried out in five Caatinga areas between 2015 and 2017, using suspended traps baited with bovine spleen, fish or human faeces. When all samplings were combined, 3,176 adults of nine species were collected. The assemblages of muscids had higher richness and abundances on bovine spleen, which attracted 66% of all specimens, when compared to the other substrates. Musca domestica was the most abundant species, and it was dominant in assemblages associated with spleen and fish. Assemblages attracted to spleen and fish had higher similarity, differing from those associated with faeces. Differences in food attractiveness are presented for species of medical interest as pathogen vectors (e.g., Synthesiomyia nudiseta (Wulp, 1883)) and of forensic relevance as colonizers of human corpses (e.g., Ophyra aenescens (Wiedemann, 1830)).
André Bazin e a intermidialidade: por uma historicidade impura do cinema
Authors: Adamatti Margarida Maria
Published: June 2018

Pioneiro avant la lettre da intermidialidade, André Bazin não desprezou as possibilidades artísticas do diálogo entre o cinema e as demais mídias. Longe de uma postura purista, Bazin demonstrou como esses entrelaçamentos trouxeram uma inevitável historicidade ao cinema e a possibilidade de aprimoramento da forma fílmica. Num movimento pendular entre a noção de autoria e o elogio à criação anônima das artes, Bazin agregou a arqueologia das mídias ao debate do específico. Através da articulação entre a análise fílmica e o estudo do contexto, os artigos sobre a adaptação teatral e literária abrem-nos caminhos de pesquisa para abordagens intermidiáticas do cinema. A nossa proposta pretende decompor a metodologia baziniana e apresentar as disputas internas do campo cinematográfico em torno da autoria e do específico.
A narração de alteridade na ficção e na grande reportagem: apontamentos sobre os modos de representação do outro na televisão brasileira
Authors: Lobato José Augusto Mendes
Published: June 2018

O trabalho busca mapear, discutir e elencar marcos estruturais capazes de delimitar a narrativa de alteridade como um formato transversal do ambiente televisivo, com foco em dois gêneros: a grande reportagem jornalística e a ficção seriada. Com base nas ciências da linguagem e nos estudos culturais e da imagem, são adotadas três categorias de análise – as estratégias testemunhais/evenemenciais, os jogos de oposição e as interações entre ficcionalização e factualização – para examinar quatro telenovelas e 16 edições do programa jornalístico Globo Repórter. Ao fim, são mapeados oito elementos estruturantes da enunciação de alteridade, incluindo a retórica testemunhal, a intriga fundada no outro, a marcação de fronteiras e a contra-narração, reiterando as funções de reconfiguração e disciplinarização da experiência na televisão contemporânea.
Vozes e silenciamento em Veja e Época: o uso político das fontes na cobertura da Copa do Mundo em um ano eleitoral
Authors: Tavares Juliano Vasconcelos , Pires Teresinha Carvalho Cruz
Published: June 2018

O artigo analisa estratégias discursivas utilizadas no âmbito do jornalismo de revista com o fim de expressar e formar a opinião pública em um contexto de Copa do Mundo e eleições presidenciais. Para tanto, foram investigadas as falas de pessoas comuns nas coberturas de Época e Veja. Assim, por meio de uma análise de enquadramento, pôde-se perceber o uso político dessas falas e, em alguns momentos, o seu silenciamento.
Bourdieu e as cenas musicais: limites e barreiras
Authors: Garson Marcelo
Published: June 2018

Este artigo é uma reflexão acerca dos limites, barreiras e adaptações necessárias que os conceitos de Bourdieu relativos ao gosto e ao consumo cultural nos impõem quando investigamos objetos específicos. Nesse sentido, selecionamos cenas musicais como elemento de análise a fim de enxergar em que medida noções como campo, habitus e capital cultural e social dão conta de analisar as lógicas internas de expressões como essas, cada vez mais mutantes, efêmeras e híbridas.
Crítica de mídia em perspectiva aberta
Authors: Prado José Luiz Aidar
Published: June 2018

O que significa hoje fazer crítica midiática? Abordaremos o tema em duas vetorizações: a primeira, entendendo a crítica a partir de Judith Butler; a segunda, situando o midiático da crítica a partir da psicanálise, considerando os conceitos de sintoma e fantasia. Como objeto concreto, examinaremos o tema da polarização pós-2013 no país a partir da questão dos afetos. Como dar conta dessa polarização? Como a teoria do discurso, a psicanálise e a semiótica tensiva podem colaborar na tarefa de situar essa polarização a partir da política e do circuito dos afetos?
O lugar da morada no cinema de Lucrecia Martel e de Pablo Trapero: paisagens anestésicas ou espaços estésicos?
Authors: Fischer Sandra , Vaz Aline
Published: June 2018

O artigo se ocupa do Novo Cinema Argentino – particularmente dos filmes O pântano (La ciénaga, Lucrecia Martel, 2001) e Leonera (Pablo Trapero, 2008) – como potência das configurações domésticas que inscreve no detalhe da instituição familiar uma memória pósditatorial em que imobilidades, exclusões e barreiras são as imagens privilegiadas. Trata-se de um cinema que apresenta ambientes domésticos paradoxais, nos quais proliferam e convivem, lado a lado, práticas ambíguas de acolhimento/abrigo e de repressão/opressão – revelando as relações familiares como modos de experiências advindas do lugar da morada, que poderá se constituir em paisagem anestésica ou em espaço estésico.