bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INFLUENCE OF ANNEALING TEMPERATURE ON THE CHARACTERISTICS OF NANOCRYSTALLINE SnO2 THIN FILMS PRODUCED BY Sol–Gel AND CHEMICAL BATH DEPOSITION FOR GAS SENSOR APPLICATIONS
Authors: AL-JAWAD SELMA M. H. , ELTTAYF ABDULHUSSAIN K. , SABER AMEL S.
Published: March 2017

Pure nanocrystalline SnO2 films were grown on a clean glass substrate by using sol–gel dip coating and chemical bath deposition (CBD) techniques for gas sensor applications. The films were annealed in air at 300[Formula: see text]C, 400[Formula: see text]C, and 500[Formula: see text]C for 60[Formula: see text]min. The deposited films with a thickness of approximately 300 [Formula: see text] 20 nm were analyzed through X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and optical absorption spectroscopy. Results revealed that the films produced by dip coating exhibited a tetragonal rutile structure and those produced by CBD showed a tetragonal rutile and orthorhombic structure. The crystalline sizes of the films produced by dip coating annealed at 300[Formula: see text]C, 400[Formula: see text]C, and 500[Formula: see text]C were 8, 14, and 22.34 nm and those for CBD films at these temperatures were 10, 15, and 22 nm, respectively. AFM and SEM results indicated that the average grain size increased as annealing temperature increased. The transmittance and absorbance spectra were then recorded at wavelengths ranging from 300[Formula: see text]nm to 1000[Formula: see text]nm. The films produced by both the methods yielded high transmission at visible regions. The optical band gap energy of dip-coated films also increased as annealing temperature increased. In particular, their optical band gap energies were 3.5, 3.75, and 3.87[Formula: see text]eV at 300[Formula: see text]C, 400[Formula: see text]C, and 500[Formula: see text]C, respectively. By comparison, the energy band gap of CBD-prepared films decreased as annealing temperature increased, and their corresponding band gaps were 3.95, 3.85, and 3.8[Formula: see text]eV at the specified annealing temperatures. The films were further investigated in terms of their sensing abilities for carbon monoxide (CO) gas at 50 ppm by measuring their sensitivity to this gas at different times and temperatures. Our results demonstrated that dip-coated and CBD-prepared films were highly sensitive to CO at 200[Formula: see text]C and 250[Formula: see text]C, respectively.
Trend Extraction in Functional Data of Amplitudes of R and T Waves in Exercise Electrocardiogram
Authors: Cammarota Camillo , Curione Mario
Published: March 2017

The amplitudes of R and T waves of the electrocardiogram (ECG) recorded during the exercise test show both large inter- and intra-individual variability in response to stress. We analyze a dataset of 65 normal subjects undergoing ambulatory test. We model the dataset of R and T series in the framework of functional data, assuming that the individual series are realizations of a non-stationary process, centered at the population trend. We test the time variability of this trend computing a simultaneous confidence band and the zero crossing of its derivative. The analysis shows that the amplitudes of the R and T waves have opposite responses to stress, consisting respectively in a bump and a dip at the early recovery stage. Our findings support the existence of a relationship between R and T wave amplitudes and respectively diastolic and systolic ventricular volumes.
SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS AND SJÖGREN-LIKE SYNDROME IN A POODLE
Authors: Yang Pin Chen , Chiou Shiow-Her , Huang Chieh-Wen , Lee Ya-Jane
Published: March 2017

An eight-year-old neutered female miniature poodle was presented at National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital with the history of intermittent fever, papules, discoid rash, low appetite and activity and having been treated at local veterinary hospitals for about two months. The laboratory data showed non-regenerative anemia, leukopenia, elevated levels of alkaline phosphatase and asparatate aminotransferase activity, low total T4 concentration and proteinuria. Xerophthalmia and xerostomia were also noted. Antinuclear antibody (ANA) test revealed positive ANA at a titer of 256. The tentative diagnosis was systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) accompanied with Sjögren-like syndrome. After prednisolone and azathioprine administration, clinical signs and clinic pathologic abnormalities were improved gradually, and then prednisolone was tapered to reduce the side effects of steroid. Conclusively, this poodle was diagnosed as SLE and Sjögren-like syndrome.
A HINDCAST EXPERIMENT USING THE GCAM 3.0 AGRICULTURE AND LAND-USE MODULE
Authors: CALVIN KATHERINE , WISE MARSHALL , KYLE PAGE , CLARKE LEON , EDMONDS JAE
Published: March 2017

We report results of a “hindcast” experiment focusing on the agricultural and land-use component of the Global Change Assessment Model (GCAM). We initialize GCAM to reproduce observed agriculture and land use in 1990 and forecast agriculture and land use patterns on one-year time steps to 2010. We report overall model performance for nine crops in 14 regions. We report areas where the hindcast is in relatively good agreement with observations and areas where the correspondence is poorer. We find that when given observed crop yields as input data, producers in GCAM implicitly have perfect foresight for yields leading to over compensation for year-to-year yield variation. We explore a simple model in which planting decisions are based on expectations but production depends on actual yields and find that this addresses the implicit perfect foresight problem. Second, while existing policies are implicitly calibrated into IAMs, changes in those policies over the period of analysis can have a dramatic effect on the fidelity of model output. Third, we demonstrate that IAMs can employ techniques similar to those used by the climate modeling community to evaluate model skill. We find that hindcasting has the potential to yield substantial benefits to the IAM community.
β-Arrestin-biased AT1R stimulation promotes extracellular matrix synthesis in renal fibrosis
Authors: Wang Yandao , Huang Jieli , Liu Xi , Niu Yangyang , Zhao Liqin , Yu Ying , Zhou Li , Lu Limin , Yu Chen
Published: March 2017

The renin-angiotensin system plays a critical role in the progression of renal fibrosis. Angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) belongs to the B family of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family. β-Arrestins are known as negative regulators of GPCRs. Recently, β-arrestins have been found to regulate multiple intracellular signaling pathways independent of G proteins. In this study we investigated the role of β-arrestins in regulating extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis in renal fibrosis. The rat kidney fibroblast cell line (NRK-49F) was treated with the β-arrestin biased agonist [1-sar, 4, 8-ile]angiotensin II (SII), which does not initiate AT1R-G protein signaling. The cells were transfected with recombinant adenoviruses expressing β-arrestin-2 gene or small-interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting β-arrestin-2. The unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) model was used in vivo. mRNA and protein levels of β-arrestin-2, not β-arrestin-1, were significantly upregulated in the UUO kidney tissues. SII induced the tight binding of β-arrestin-2 with AT1R. SII increased the synthesis of collagen I and fibronectin in NRK-49F, which were abolished when pretreated with candesartan (AT1R blocker). Transfection of siRNA targeting β-arrestin-2 decreased the effects of SII on ECM synthesis. Overexpression of β-arrestin-2 enhanced SII-stimulated ECM synthesis. SII induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation in NRK-49F. Transfection of siRNA targeting β-arrestin-2 inhibited ERK phosphorylation. Overexpression of β-arrestin-2 increased ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Our study first showed that AT1R-β-arrestin-2 pathway signaling plays an important role in renal fibrosis, although it was previously believed that the AT1R-G protein pathway plays a major role. Targeting β-arrestin-2 may be a potential therapeutic agent for renal fibrosis.
Measurement of the distribution of ventilation-perfusion ratios in the human lung with proton MRI: comparison with the multiple inert-gas elimination technique
Authors: Sá Rui Carlos , Henderson A. Cortney , Simonson Tatum , Arai Tatsuya J. , Wagner Harrieth , Theilmann Rebecca J. , Wagner Peter D. , Prisk G. Kim , Hopkins Susan R.
Published: March 2017

We have developed a novel functional proton magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique to measure regional ventilation-perfusion (V̇A/Q̇) ratio in the lung. We conducted a comparison study of this technique in healthy subjects ( n = 7, age = 42 ± 16 yr, Forced expiratory volume in 1 s = 94% predicted), by comparing data measured using MRI to that obtained from the multiple inert gas elimination technique (MIGET). Regional ventilation measured in a sagittal lung slice using Specific Ventilation Imaging was combined with proton density measured using a fast gradient-echo sequence to calculate regional alveolar ventilation, registered with perfusion images acquired using arterial spin labeling, and divided on a voxel-by-voxel basis to obtain regional V̇A/Q̇ ratio. LogSDV̇ and LogSDQ̇, measures of heterogeneity derived from the standard deviation (log scale) of the ventilation and perfusion vs. V̇A/Q̇ ratio histograms respectively, were calculated. On a separate day, subjects underwent study with MIGET and LogSDV̇ and LogSDQ̇ were calculated from MIGET data using the 50-compartment model. MIGET LogSDV̇ and LogSDQ̇ were normal in all subjects. LogSDQ̇ was highly correlated between MRI and MIGET (R = 0.89, P = 0.007); the intercept was not significantly different from zero (−0.062, P = 0.65) and the slope did not significantly differ from identity (1.29, P = 0.34). MIGET and MRI measures of LogSDV̇ were well correlated (R = 0.83, P = 0.02); the intercept differed from zero (0.20, P = 0.04) and the slope deviated from the line of identity (0.52, P = 0.01). We conclude that in normal subjects, there is a reasonable agreement between MIGET measures of heterogeneity and those from proton MRI measured in a single slice of lung.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We report a comparison of a new proton MRI technique to measure regional V̇A/Q̇ ratio against the multiple inert gas elimination technique (MIGET). The study reports good relationships between measures of heterogeneity derived from MIGET and those derived from MRI. Although currently limited to a single slice acquisition, these data suggest that single sagittal slice measures of V̇A/Q̇ ratio provide an adequate means to assess heterogeneity in the normal lung.
Differences in postinjury auditory system pathophysiology after mild blast and nonblast acute acoustic trauma
Authors: Race Nicholas , Lai Jesyin , Shi Riyi , Bartlett Edward L.
Published: March 2017

Blasts exposures often produce hearing difficulties. Although cochlear damage typically occurs, the downstream effects on central auditory processing are less clear. Moreover, outcomes were compared between individuals exposed to the blast pressure wave vs. those who experienced the blast noise without the pressure wave. It was found that a single blast exposure produced changes at all stages of the ascending auditory path at least 4 wk postblast, whereas blast noise alone produced largely transient changes.
Impaired sweating responses to a passive whole body heat stress in individuals with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Allen Dustin R. , Huang Mu , Parupia Iqra M. , Dubelko Ariana R. , Frohman Elliot M. , Davis Scott L.
Published: March 2017

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS), disrupting autonomic function. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that individuals with MS have blunted control of thermoregulatory reflex increases in sweat rate (SR) and cutaneous vasodilation compared with controls during a passive whole body heat stress (WBH). Eighteen individuals with relapsing-remitting MS and 18 healthy controls (Con) participated in the study. Core temperature (Tcore), skin temperature, heart rate, arterial blood pressure (10-min intervals), skin blood flow (laser-Doppler flux, LDF), and SR were continuously measured during normothermic baseline (34°C water perfusing a tube-lined suit) and WBH (increased Tcore 0.8°C via 48°C water perfusing the suit). Following WBH, local heaters were warmed to 42°C, inducing peak cutaneous vasodilation at the site of LDF collection. Cutaneous vascular conductance (CVC) was calculated as the ratio of LDF to mean arterial pressure and expressed as a percentage of peak achieved during local heating. Individuals with MS had attenuated SR responses to WBH (ΔSR from baseline: Con, 0.65 ± 0.27; MS, 0.42 ± 0.17 mg·cm−2·min−1, P = 0.003), whereas Δ%CVC42C from baseline was similar between groups (Con, 42 ± 16%; MS, 38 ± 12%, P = 0.39). SR responses were blunted as a function of Tcore in MS (interaction: group × Tcore, P = 0.03), of which differences were evident at ΔTcore 0.7°C and 0.8°C ( P < 0.05). No interaction was observed in Δ%CVC42C. Taken together, the findings show MS blunts sweating responses, whereas control of the cutaneous vasculature is preserved, in response to WBH.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study is the first to assess the reflex control of the thermoregulatory system in individuals living with multiple sclerosis (MS). The novel findings are twofold. First, attenuated increases in sweat rate in subjects with MS compared with healthy controls were observed in response to a moderate increase (0.8°C) in core temperature via passive whole body heat stress. Second, it appears the reflex control of the cutaneous vasculature is preserved in MS.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles: Roles in Tumor Growth, Progression, and Drug Resistance
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyan , Tu Huaijun , Yang Yazhi , Fang Lijun , Wu Qiong , Li Jian
Published: March 2017

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are ubiquitously present in many tissues. Due to their unique advantages, MSCs have been widely employed in clinical studies. Emerging evidences indicate that MSCs can also migrate to the tumor surrounding stroma and exert complex effects on tumor growth and progression. However, the effect of MSCs on tumor growth is still a matter of debate. Several studies have shown that MSCs could favor tumor growth. On the contrary, other groups have demonstrated that MSCs suppressed tumor progression. Extracellular vesicles have emerged as a new mechanism of cell-to-cell communication in the development of tumor diseases. MSCs-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs) could mimic the effects of the mesenchymal stem cells from which they originate. Different studies have reported that MSC-EVs may exert various effects on the growth, metastasis, and drug response of different tumor cells by transferring proteins, messenger RNA, and microRNA to recipient cells. In the present review, we summarize the components of MSC-EVs and discuss the roles of MSC-EVs in different malignant diseases, including the related mechanisms that may account for their therapeutic potential. MSC-EVs open up a promising opportunity in the treatment of cancer with increased efficacy.
Further Stability Analysis of Time‐Delay Systems with Nonlinear Perturbations
Authors: Sun Jie , Zhang Jing
Published: March 2017

In this study, we focus on stability analysis for systems with time‐varying delay and nonlinear perturbations. In order to cut down the conservatism of the existing stability criteria, we utilize the triple integral forms of Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functional (LKF). In addition, by using single and double integral forms of Wirtinger‐based inequality, we overcome some conservatism which come from Jensen’s inequality. Three well‐known numerical examples are given at the end. Compared with some existing results, our results have less conservatism.
Computational Acoustic Beamforming for Noise Source Identification for Small Wind Turbines
Authors: Ma Ping , Lien Fue-Sang , Yee Eugene
Published: March 2017

This paper develops a computational acoustic beamforming (CAB) methodology for identification of sources of small wind turbine noise. This methodology is validated using the case of the NACA 0012 airfoil trailing edge noise. For this validation case, the predicted acoustic maps were in excellent conformance with the results of the measurements obtained from the acoustic beamforming experiment. Following this validation study, the CAB methodology was applied to the identification of noise sources generated by a commercial small wind turbine. The simulated acoustic maps revealed that the blade tower interaction and the wind turbine nacelle were the two primary mechanisms for sound generation for this small wind turbine at frequencies between 100 and 630 Hz.
Expression, Mutation, and Amplification Status of EGFR and Its Correlation with Five miRNAs in Salivary Gland Tumours
Authors: Boštjančič Emanuela , Hauptman Nina , Grošelj Aleš , Glavač Damjan , Volavšek Metka
Published: March 2017

Malignant salivary gland tumours are rare histologically and clinically heterogeneous group of tumours, missing prognostic factors and therapeutic targets. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), small noncoding RNAs, and posttranscriptional regulators of mRNA are poorly described in different subtypes of salivary gland tumours. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), an important therapeutic target and target of certain miRNAs (i.e.,miR-133b), shows variable degrees of expression in salivary gland tumours. Our study included 70 parotid gland tumours of different histological subtypes. Expression, mutations, and copy number variations (CNVs) of EGFR were determined using immunohistochemistry, single-stranded conformation polymorphism, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and fluorescence in situ hybridization. Expression ofmiR-99b,miR-133b,miR-140,miR-140-3p, andlet-7awas analysed using qPCR. Expression of EGFR was observed in 37% of tumours with low and 40% of tumours with high malignant potential. There were no mutations, with the majority of samples showing polysomy of chromosome 7. Based on histological subtypes, we found differential expression of all five miRNAs. We confirmed association of reactivity of EGFR,miR-133b,miR-140,miR-140-3p, andlet-7awith CNV of EGFR and a positive association betweenmiR-133b/let-7aand reactivity of EGFR. Age and need for postoperative radiotherapy were characterized as significant in multivariate survival analysis.
Finsler Geometry for Two‐Parameter Weibull Distribution Function
Authors: Dokur Emrah , Ceyhan Salim , Kurban Mehmet
Published: March 2017

To construct the geometry in nonflat spaces in order to understand nature has great importance in terms of applied science. Finsler geometry allows accurate modeling and describing ability for asymmetric structures in this application area. In this paper, two‐dimensional Finsler space metric function is obtained for Weibull distribution which is used in many applications in this area such as wind speed modeling. The metric definition for two‐parameter Weibull probability density function which has shape (k) and scale (c) parameters in two‐dimensional Finsler space is realized using a different approach by Finsler geometry. In addition, new probability and cumulative probability density functions based on Finsler geometry are proposed which can be used in many real world applications. For future studies, it is aimed at proposing more accurate models by using this novel approach than the models which have two‐parameter Weibull probability density function, especially used for determination of wind energy potential of a region.
No Decreased Risk of Gastrointestinal Cancers in Users of Metformin in The Netherlands; A Time-Varying Analysis of Metformin Exposure
Authors: de Jong Roy G. , Burden Andrea M. , de Kort Sander , van Herk-Sukel Myrthe P. , Vissers Pauline A. , Janssen Paddy K. , Haak Harm R. , Masclee Ad A. , de Vries Frank , Janssen-Heijnen Maryska L.
Published: March 2017

Previous studies on metformin use and gastrointestinal (GI) cancer risk have yielded inconclusive results on metformin's chemoprotective effects. We aimed to evaluate GI cancer risk in users of metformin in The Netherlands using a time-varying approach in a large population-based database. A cohort study was performed using the NCR-PHARMO database. Patients using ≥1 non-insulin antidiabetic drug (NIAD) during 1998 to 2011 were included (N = 57,621). Exposure to NIADs was modeled time-varyingly. Cox regression analysis estimated HRs of GI cancers in current metformin users versus current users of other NIADs. Covariables included age, sex, drugs known to impact cancer risk, history of hospitalization, and starting year of follow-up. A sensitivity analysis was performed, applying a new-user design. Current use of metformin was not associated with a decreased risk of GI cancer [HR, 0.97; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.82–1.15] or specific GI cancer sites. The sensitivity analysis yielded comparable results. No decreasing trends were observed with increasing cumulative dose of metformin [HR 1.05, 95% CI, 0.85–1.28; HR 0.89, 95% CI, 0.73–1.10; HR 0.96, 95% CI, 0.77–1.19 for dose tertiles low (<405 g), medium (405–999 g), and high (≥999 g)]. In contrast, an increased risk of pancreatic cancer was found in current users of metformin plus insulin (HR, 4.90; 95% CI, 2.64–9.10). In conclusion, no decreased risk of GI cancer was found in current metformin users compared with current users of other NIADs. Variations in the exposure definition of metformin use may be one of the explanations of previously found reduced cancer risks in metformin users. Cancer Prev Res; 10(5); 290–7. ©2017 AACR.
Thrombosis in Inherited Fibrinogen Disorders
Authors: Korte Wolfgang , Poon Man-Chiu , Iorio Alfonso , Makris Michael
Published: March 2017

Although inherited fibrinogen disorders (IFD) are primarily considered to be bleeding disorders, they are associated with a higher thrombotic complication risk than defects in other clotting factors. Managing IFD patients with thrombosis is challenging as anticoagulant treatment may exacerbate the underlying bleeding risk which can be life-threatening. Due to the low prevalence of IFD, there is little information on pathophysiology or optimal treatment of thrombosis in these patients. We searched the literature for cases of thrombosis among IFD patients and identified a total of 128 patient reports. In approximately half of the cases, thromboses were spontaneous, while in the others trauma, surgery, and parturition contributed to the risk. The true mechanism(s) of thrombosis in IFD patients remain to be elucidated. A variety of anticoagulant treatments have been used in the treatment or prevention of thrombosis, sometimes with concurrent fibrinogen replacement therapy. There is no definite evidence that fibrinogen supplementation increases the risk of thrombosis, and it may potentially be effective in the treatment and prevention of both thrombosis and hemorrhage in IFD patients.
Flare-Up of Rheumatoid Arthritis by Anti-CTLA-4 Antibody but Not by Anti-PD1 Therapy in a Patient with Metastatic Melanoma
Authors: Jaberg-Bentele Nicoletta F. , Kunz Michael , Abuhammad Shatha , Dummer Reinhard
Published: March 2017

A 47-year-old female patient with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treated with methotrexate, was diagnosed with metastatic melanoma. After surgical removal of the tumor, the patient started treatment with ipilimumab while methotrexate was stopped. One week after initiation of ipilimumab, the patient developed typical symptoms of RA. Analgetic therapy was started. After 4 cycles of ipilimumab, melanoma progression was radiologically evident. The treatment plan was changed to pembrolizumab (anti-PD1 antibody), and the patient did not show active signs of RA anymore. Despite treatment with pembrolizumab, the patient died 4 months later due to tumor progression. The exact mechanism by which ipilimumab (anti-CTLA-4 antibody) provoked RA symptoms is still not fully understood. This subject needs more investigation, especially in an era in which immunotherapies are a standard therapy for patients with malignancy.
Doubly Labeled Water Method and Accelerometer for the Measurement of Energy Expenditure in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Patients
Authors: Guimarães Mariana P. , Ferriolli Eduardo , Pfrimer Karina , Navarro Anderson M.
Published: March 2017

Background: Several studies have reported increased resting energy expenditure (REE) in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients with HIV-associated lipodystrophy syndrome (HALS). However, limited data exist on the total energy expenditure (TEE). This study was aimed at evaluating the REE and TEE of HIV-infected patients with and without HALS by using the doubly labeled water (DLW) technique and the activity monitor based on accelerometry system (AM), and comparing the results obtained using both methods. Methods: Evaluated total of 45 HIV+ men undergoing antiretroviral therapy, including 18 LIPO- (without lipodystrophy) and 27 LIPO+ (with lipodystrophy) individuals were evaluated. Habitual physical activity patterns were measured by using the ActivPAL™ AM system, REE by indirect calorimetry, and TEE by DLW and AM. Results: No significant differences were found between LIPO- and LIPO+ in REE (1,433 ± 196 vs. 1,510 ± 203 kcal), TEE-DLW (2,691 ± 856 vs. 2,618 ± 415 kcal) and TEE-AM (2,560 ± 458 vs. 2,594 ± 456 kcal), respectively. RQ was a predictor of REE in LIPO+. TEE estimated by the AM had a moderate correlation with DLW, but there was a wide variance in the intra-subject results. Conclusions: TEE is not increased in HIV-infected patients with HALS. AM should be used with caution for TEE evaluation during clinical practice.
Emotions in Motion: Myofascial Interoception
Authors: Bordoni Bruno , Marelli Fabiola
Published: March 2017

There are numerous articles in the literature dealing with the myofascial system, on the physiological, pathological, macroscopic and microscopic level; yet, we still do not have a thorough knowledge of its functions, just as there is still no shared vision of how to classify it. Many professional manual practitioners are involved in its treatment and there are many emerging therapeutic approaches. What is still missing is the awareness that the body is also emotion. The myofascial continuum is able to stimulate the areas of the brain that deal with the emotional state, and manual treatment activates the interoceptive system. To optimize myofascial treatment, a psychologist should work alongside the manual practitioner, creating a multidisciplinary team that takes into account both the physical and emotional aspects.
Aktuelle Situation der homöopathischen Versorgung von Querschnittgelähmten in der Schweiz
Authors: Pannek Jürgen , Pannek-Rademacher Susanne , Cachin-Jus Martine
Published: March 2017

Hintergrund: Bis heute ist eine Querschnittlähmung (QSL) nicht kurativ behandelbar. Obwohl eine additive homöopathische Therapie der Sekundärfolgen einer QSL dokumentiert erfolgreich ist und eine hohe Nachfrage seitens der Betroffenen besteht, existiert in der Schweiz keine systematische homöopathische Versorgung für diese Patientengruppe. Mögliche Ursachen hierfür sind eine mangelnde Barrierefreiheit der Einrichtungen oder fehlende Ausbildung der Therapeuten. Methoden: Mittels eines standardisierten Fragebogens wurden alle in Fachverbänden registrierten homöopathischen Therapeuten in der Schweiz bezüglich Barrierefreiheit, Anzahl von Patienten mit QSL, medizinischer Versorgung und Fortbildungsbedarf befragt. Ergebnisse: 108 Fragebögen waren auswertbar. Obwohl 68 Therapeuten eine barrierefreie Praxis besassen, haben lediglich 31 Therapeuten im Jahr 2015 QSL-Patienten behandelt. In drei Einrichtungen wurden pro Jahr mehr als 5 Patienten mit QSL behandelt. 74 Personen (69%) hatten einen Fortbildungsbedarf (65% homöopathische Therapie, 31% konventionelle Medizin). Offensichtlich wird lediglich ein geringer Teil der Personen mit QSL in der Schweiz homöopathisch betreut. Dabei konzentriert sich die Betreuung auf wenige Einrichtungen. Bauliche Hindernisse scheinen die Versorgung dieser Patientengruppe weniger einzuschränken als fehlende Fachkenntnisse. Aufgrund der komplexen Versorgung dieser Patientengruppe besteht ein erheblicher Fortbildungsbedarf. Schlussfolgerungen: Um die homöopathische Versorgung von Patienten mit QSL in der Schweiz zu optimieren, sind ein Netzwerk qualifizierter Homöopathen, Referenzzentren für komplexe Probleme, eine intensive Kooperation mit den konventionell medizinischen Therapeuten und eine gute Information der Betroffenen über die Grenzen und Möglichkeiten der Homöopathie vonnöten.
Hypoxia Enhances Immunosuppression by Inhibiting CD4+ Effector T Cell Function and Promoting Treg Activity
Authors: Westendorf Astrid M. , Skibbe Kathrin , Adamczyk Alexandra , Buer Jan , Geffers Robert , Hansen Wiebke , Pastille Eva , Jendrossek Verena
Published: March 2017

Background/Aims: Hypoxia occurs in many pathological conditions, including inflammation and cancer. Within this context, hypoxia was shown to inhibit but also to promote T cell responses. Due to this controversial function, we aimed to explore whether an insufficient anti-tumour response during colitis-associated colon cancer could be ascribed to a hypoxic microenvironment. Methods: Colitis-associated colon cancer was induced in wildtype mice, and hypoxia as well as T cell immunity were analysed in the colonic tumour tissues. In addition, CD4+ effector T cells and regulatory T cells were cultured under normoxic and hypoxic conditions and examined regarding their phenotype and function. Results: We observed severe hypoxia in the colon of mice suffering from colitis-associated colon cancer that was accompanied by a reduced differentiation of CD4+ effector T cells and an enhanced number and suppressive activity of regulatory T cells. Complementary ex vivo and in vitro studies revealed that T cell stimulation under hypoxic conditions inhibited the differentiation, proliferation and IFN-γ production of TH1 cells and enhanced the suppressive capacity of regulatory T cells. Moreover, we identified an active role for HIF-1α in the modulation of CD4+ T cell functions under hypoxic conditions. Conclusion: Our data indicate that oxygen availability can function as a local modulator of CD4+ T cell responses and thus influences tumour immune surveillance in inflammation-associated colon cancer.
Assessing the Feasibility of Replacing Standard-Dose Bacillus Calmette–Guérin Immunotherapy with Other Intravesical Instillation Therapies in Bladder Cancer Patients: A Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wu Cheng , Zhou Xunrong , Miao Chunqing , Zhang Jianzhong , Tang Qingsheng , Chang Xiumei , Ni Haodong
Published: March 2017

Background: Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) immunotherapy plays a key role in patients with bladder cancer. The shortage of intravesical BCG has motivated researchers to seek alternatives with equivalent efficacy If other alternative intravesical agents have equivalent efficacy compared to BCG, then it may be feasible to replace standard BCG with alternative options. Methods: We searched all relevant evidence in multiple sources and key data was extracted from included studies. Conventional and network meta-analysis were conducted so that pooled odds ratios (ORs) for the event of tumor recurrence and progression can be computed. The relative efficacy of different intravesical instillation procedures was computed by pooled odds ratios and their 95% confidence or creditable intervals. Besides, several key model assumptions were evaluated in our analysis. Results: Three intravesical instillation procedures have the potential for preventing tumor recurrence: standard-dose BCG (BCG_SD), Epirubicin (EPI) and Mitomycin C (MMC) (ORs < 1). Patients with BCG SD also exhibited a decreased risk of tumor recurrence and progression compared to those with EPI. No significant difference in the risk of tumor recurrence or progression was detected between patients treated with BCG_ SD and those with low-dose BCG (BCG_LD). Results of SUCRA indicated that BCG_EPI, BCG_ MMC and BCG SD had higher rankings with respect to tumor recurrence and progression. Conclusions: BCG SD, EPI and MMC exhibited established efficacy for preventing tumor recurrence in postoperative BC patients. The efficacy of BCG may not be significantly reduced if standard dose was reduced to a lower level. However, there is no consensus suggesting that intravesical BCG with standard dose can be replaced by alternating or sequentially combined intravesical instillation therapies.
Kaempferol Modulates DNA Methylation and Downregulates DNMT3B in Bladder Cancer
Authors: Qiu Wei , Lin Jun , Zhu Yichen , Zhang Jian , Zeng Liping , Su Ming , Tian Ye
Published: March 2017

Background: Genomic DNA methylation plays an important role in both the occurrence and development of bladder cancer. Kaempferol (Kae), a natural flavonoid that is present in many fruits and vegetables, exhibits potent anti-cancer effects in bladder cancer. Similar to other flavonoids, Kae possesses a flavan nucleus in its structure. This structure was reported to inhibit DNA methylation by suppressing DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs). However, whether Kae can inhibit DNA methylation remains unclear. Methods: Nude mice bearing bladder cancer were treated with Kae for 31 days. The genomic DNA was extracted from xenografts and the methylation changes was determined using an Illumina Infinium HumanMethylation 450 BeadChip Array. The ubiquitination was detected using immuno-precipitation assay. Results: Our data indicated that Kae modulated DNA methylation in bladder cancer, inducing 103 differential DNA methylation positions (dDMPs) associated with genes (50 hyper-methylated and 53 hypo-methylated). DNA methylation is mostly relied on the levels of DNMTs. We observed that Kae specifically inhibited the protein levels of DNMT3B without altering the expression of DNMT1 or DNMT3A. However, Kae did not downregulate the transcription of DNMT3B. Interestingly, we observed that Kae induced a premature degradation of DNMT3B by inhibiting protein synthesis with cycloheximide (CHX). By blocking proteasome with MG132, we observed that Kae induced an increased ubiquitination of DNMT3B. These results suggested that Kae could induce the degradation of DNMT3B through ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. Conclusion: Our data indicated that Kae is a novel DNMT3B inhibitor, which may promote the degradation of DNMT3B in bladder cancer.
The planktonic Cladocera (Crustacea) and aspects of the eutrophication of Americana Reservoir, Brazil
Authors: Zago Marlene Sofia Arcifa
Published: March 2017

Este trabalho refere-se a estudos levados a efeito na Represa de Americana, 22°44’20” S e 44°19’22” W. de junho de 1969 a abril de 1972. Esta represa é formada pelo represamento do Rio Atibaia, o qual recebe esgoto doméstico e industrial não sujeito a tratamento.As coletas foram feitas a intervalos de 30 a 40 dias, em três estações. As am ostras de plâncton foram obtidas com rede, através de puxadas verticais. Paralelamente foram feitas determinações de fatores físicos, químicos e bacteriológicos.Foram encontradas dez espécies de Cladocera: Daphnia gessneri, Ceriodaphnia cornuta, Ceriodaphnia reticulata, Moina cf. dubia, Moina sp., Diaphanosoma sp., Diaphanosoma neotropicum, Bosminopsis deitersi, Bosmina longirostris, and Eubos- mina or Neobosmina sp. As populações dessas espécies foram estimadas nas três estações. No decorrer dos três anos foram observados: aumento das concentrações de N e P inorgânicos o que indicaria uma sensível eutrofização; queda dos teores de OD no fundo; pequenas modificações da transparência, do número de bactérias coliformes, da DBO e do OD superficial; estratificações térmicas de curta duração. Quanto aos Cladocera, houve redução do número de espécies e das densidades populacionais, o que pode ter sido influenciado pelas alterações das condições tróficas ou mais provavelmente, por substâncias tóxicas inclusive o herbicida 2,4 D.
A preliminary investigation on the cyclomorphosis of Daphnia gessneri Herbst, 1967, in a Brazilian reservoir
Authors: Zago Marlene Sofia Arcifa
Published: March 2017

Este artigo não contém resumo.
Two species of Fridericia Mich., 1889 (Oligochaeta, Enchytraeidae) from Brazil
Authors: Christoffersen Martin Lindsey
Published: March 2017

Foram estudadas anatômica e sistematicamente Fridericia bulbosa (Rosa, 1887) e F. bollonsi Benham, 1914, comuns no Estado de São Paulo. De F. bulbosa foram reconhecidas três variedades que, de um modo geral, diferem pelo tamanho, número de segmentos e de cerdas, disposição das células clitelares e quilíferas, forma das espermatecas, dos peptonefrídios e das glândulas septais, pela origem do duto excretor nos nefrídios e do vaso dorsal, assim como pelo tamanho dos funis seminais e dos bulbos peniais.
Observations on a queenless colony of Plebeia saiqui (Friese) (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Meliponinae)
Authors: Fonseca Vera Lucia Imperatriz , Oliveira Maria Augusta Cabral de
Published: March 2017

O presente trabalho descreve observações feitas em uma colônia órfã de Plebeia saqui (Friese ), com relação a construção, ao aprovisionamento, a oviposiçãoe à operculação das células. Durante três meses as operárias apresentaram umaconstrução de células regular, que poderia ser resultante do grande número deabelhas existentes na colmeia, ou uma característica do gênero.Por volta do 3.° mês os processos de aprovisionamento e oviposição modificaram-se e houve o aparecimento de operárias que se comportaram como rainha.Foram observados machos na colônia, filhos das operárias, que executavam trabalhos com cerume e desidratavam nectar.São descritas outra s observações referentes a reutilização de células vazias, oofagia, forma e tamanho de favos.
Behavior of the army ant Eciton burchelli Westwood (Hymenoptera formicidae) in the Belem region. II. Bivouacs
Authors: Silva Madalena Teles da
Published: March 2017

O trabalho baseia-se em observações feitas sobre o comportamento de Eciton burchelli Westwood e Eciton hamatum Fabricius na região Amazônica, Belém, PA. durante os anos de 1966-1968. O objetivo do presente estudo refere-se ao processo de nidificação de ambas espécies e de suas variações de acordo com o tipo de mata, épocas do ano e condições internas da colônia.Durante o período de estudo fizeram-se as seguintes observações: tipo de locaisutilizados para nidificação.; padrões dos ninhos ou bivaques; grau de exposição; duração dos bivaques nômades e distância entre os bivaques estabelecidos durante a fase nômade. Estes caracteres foram relacionados com as condições das colônias das espécies estudadas, bem como com as estações do ano. Fizeram-se comparações dos resultados obtidos com os já coletados por outros autores na Ilha de Barro Colorado, Zona do Canal.
Physiological effects of mannose in Nannotrigona (Scaptotrigona) postica (Hymenoptera, apoidea, Meliponinae)
Authors: Zucoloto Fernando Sérgio , Penedo Maria Cecília Torres
Published: March 2017

Foram estudados os efeitos fisiológicos da manose erti Nannotrigona (Scaptotrigona) postica. Os resultados mostraram que a manose é tóxica para estas abelhas. A glicose protege contra esta toxidez, sendo que aumentando-se a quantidade de glicose na dieta, diminui a toxidez da manose. Foi proposta uma utilização da toxidez de carbohidratos no controle biológico.
On a new species of Bosellia
Authors: Marcus Eveline Du Bois-Reymond
Published: March 2017

Este artigo não contém resumo.
Studies on some specific biological and temporal factors affecting mating and/or oviposition in Tribolium castaneum (Hbst.) coleoptera: Tenebrionidae
Authors: Singh R. Narayan , Krishna S. S.
Published: March 2017

Machos a fêmeas de Tribolium castaneum, recém-eclcdidos, parearam para copulação durante os dois períodos de 8 horas (octetos) (de 6:00 até 14:00 ou de 14:00 até 22:00 hs) de um ciclo diário de 24 horas e começaram a oviposição no 1.o ou 2.o dia após o pareamento. O casal monogâmico, geralmente perfaz múltiplas copulações (na maioria das vezes, 3 ou 4) durante aqueles períodos. O coito é sempre curto e dura de 25 a 208 segundos. Diferenças em idade de machos e fêmeas na época da copulação produzem variações interessantes nos padrões de oviposição neste inseto. Ém todas as situações experimentais estudadas, não foi afetada a viabilidade de 100% dos ovos postos pelas fêmeas.
On the social behaviour of maned wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus)
Authors: Garcia Agnaldo
Published: March 2017

O presente trabalho analisa o desenvolvimento do relacionamento social entre um casal de guarás em cativeiro, aoresentando também algumas informações gerais sobre o seu comportamento nessas condições. Os animais foram observados no Farque Zoológico de São Paulo de fevereiro a junho de 1979 por cerca de 70 horas, aproximadamente duas vezes por semana, num recinto de 120 m 2. De fevereiro a meados de março a fêmea foi observada só no recinto, quando então o macho foi introduzido. No dia que o macho foi introduzido a fêmea foi mantida presa no abrigo, sendo o macho observado só no recinto. O restante do tempo macho e fêmea foram observados juntos. Com base nos dados coletados eu apresento a hipótese de que uma situação inicial na qual os animais se comportavam como “dono de território (fêmea) e intruso (macho)” foi finalmente substituída por uma organização do tipo “dono de território/dono de território”. Os-aspectos analisados foram a forma de depositar urina, a variação dos locais marcados com urina pelos animais, as mudanças na frequência de urinação, as mudanças dos pontos onde os animais se esfregavam, os locais onde defecavam, as variações na agressividade e as regiões preferencialmente ocupadas pelos indivíduos.
Desenvolvimento pós-embrionário de Clibanarius antillensis Stimpson, 1859 (Crustacea, Diogenidae), em laboratório
Authors: Brossi-Garcia Ana Luiza , Hebling Nilton José
Published: March 2017

Este trabalho foi realizado com a finalidade de descrever a anatomia externa das larvas de Clibanarius antillensis STIMPSON, 1859 criadas em laboratório. Os estádio de zoea e megalopa foram descritos. Fêmeas ovígeras foram coletadas em praias de S. Sebastião, São Paulo, Brasil. Os animais foram mantidos até a eclosão no laboratório em água do mar filtrada (salinidade 35 °/oo). As larvas foram criadas individualmente e alimentadas com nauplius de Artemia salina e a água foi mudada diariamente. Quatro ou cinco estádios de zoea e megalopa foram obtidos e o período de desenvolvimento foi completado em 39 dias (valor médio) à 18,8°C e 29 dias à 22°C. Comparações anatômicas foram feitas com larvas de outras espécies brasileiras particularmente com as do mesmo gênero. Observou- se estreita correlação entre C.antillensis e C. vittatus (Bosc, 1802).
Estágios de desenvolvimento ovariano em Atta sexdens rubropilosa Forel (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) durante o primeiro ciclo reprodutivo
Authors: Cunha Maria A. Staurengo da , Moraes Regina Lucia M. Silva de , Landim Carminda Da Cruz
Published: March 2017

Ovários de rainhas de Atta sexdens rubropilosa foram coletados, após o vôo nupcial e fundação de um novo ninho e submetidos a técnica de montagem total após a reação de Feulgen. O número de ovaríolos variou entre 160 e 170 em cada ovário. Ovários de rainhas com 5, 18, 35, 60 e 130 dias após o vôo nupcial foram examinados. Eles mostram que os estádios vitelcgênicos foram mais abundantes aos 35 e 60 dias. Em 130 dias todos os ovaríolos apresentaram um corpo lúteo o qual indicou que já havia ocorrido uma postura. Além disso, nesta etapa, os estádios pré-vitelogênicos foram mais abundantes, da mesma m aneira que ocorreu em 5 e 18 dias, tornando evidente que o desenvolvimento do ovário das rainhas de saúva é cíclico. Observações feitas ao microscópio óptico possibilitaram determ inar a ocorrência de seis estádios de desenvolvimento de ovaríolos em cada idade estudada.
The western atlantic Tritoniidae
Authors: Marcus Eveline Du Bois-Reymond
Published: March 2017

As sete Tritoniidae do Atlântico Ocidental são descritas e desenhadas. Os caracteres sistemáticos são discutidos e foram feitas lista e chave para os gêneros das Tritoniidae. A distribuição de Marionia cucullata é estendida para o norte até o Estreito da Flórida. As novas espécies, Tritonia eriosi da Ilha dos Lobos, Uruguai, e Marionia tedi do Estreito da Florida são descritas e desenhadas. Tritonia odhneri Tardy, 1963, da Bretanha é pré-ocupada por Tritonia odhne- ri Marcus, 1959, do Chile. Propondo chamar a espécie de Tardy de Tritonia nils- odhneri, nom. nov. A Marionia cucullata Vicente & Arnaud, 1979 da Terra Adelie, tem processos velares simples, e placas gástricas não são mencionadas. Portanto não pertence ao gênero Marionia. Tritonia episcopalis Bouchet, 1977, é provavelmente uma Tritoniella devido à forma da ponta do seu penis.
Descrição do gênero Pensacolops, G. N. e de nova espécie de Chira Peckham, 1896 (Araneae, Salticidae)
Authors: Vianna Maria José Bauab
Published: March 2017

Um novo gênero Pensacolops n g. e uma nova espécie Chira distincta n.sp. são descritas do Estado de São Paulo, Brasil.Prosseguindo no estudo das aranhas da família Salticidae, descrevemos, nesta nota, um novo gênero do grupo Pensacoleae e nova espécie do grupo Vicireae, procedentes do Estado de São Paulo, Brasil.
Topografia glandular da sola pediosa de Prosobranchia marinhos (Gastropoda, Mollusca)
Authors: Macha Newton
Published: March 2017

Foi realizado um estudo topográfico da sola pediosa de Prosobranchia marinhos com o objetivo de analisar as glândulas secretoras de muco. Especimens representativos de Archeogastropoda, Mesogastropoda e Neogastropoda foram utiliza dos. Ficou estabelecido que para fins morfológicos as mesmas podem ser classificadas em intra-epiteliais e intra-conjuntivais. Como fato novo foi verificado que as glándulas de Littorina flava e de Cypraea zebra são intra-epiteliais enquanto que Thais haemastoma apresenta glândulas intra-conjuntivais.
A polyclad turbellarian from oysters in the Gulf of California
Authors: Marcus Eveline Du Bois-Reymond , Harry Harold W.
Published: March 2017

Muitos platielmintes da cavidade inalante de Ostrea angelica no Golfo da California representam uma nova especie, Zygantroplana ups, spec. nov.
On the occurence of giant males in Nannotrigona (Scaptotrigona) postica Latreille (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Meliponinae)
Authors: Bego Luci Rolandi , Camargo Conceição Aparecida de
Published: March 2017

Machos normais e gigantes de Nannotrigona (Scapto - trigona) postiça Latr. foram analisados, através de caracteres morfológicos e morfométricos. Os resultados demonstram que não há diferenças entre os mesmos exceto em tamanho. A produção de machos gigantes nesta espécie é um fato raro, comparado com outras espécies de Meliponinae.