bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Various Pretreatments on Quality Attributes of Vacuum-Fried Shiitake Mushroom Chips
Authors: Ren Aiqing , Pan Siyi , Li Weirong , Chen Guobao , Duan Xu
Published: January 2018

The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of pretreatments on the quality of vacuum-fried shiitake mushroom slices. Four different pretreatments addressed in this study were (1) blanching as control, (2) blanching and osmotic dehydration with maltodextrin (MD) solution, (3) blanching, osmotic dehydration, and coating with sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), (4) blanching and osmotic dehydration, followed by freezing. All samples were pretreated and then fried in palm oil at 90°C with vacuum degree of −0.095 MPa for 30 min. The results showed that pretreatments significantly (p<0.05) affected the moisture content, oil content, color, water activity (aw), total phenolic content, and sensory evaluation of shiitake mushroom chips. The blanching, osmotic dehydration, and coating pretreatment could improve color and sensory evaluation and also minimize the oil uptake of fried chips, whereas this treatment caused the highest reduction of total phenolic contents. There were no significant (p>0.05) differences of fried chip in the texture among the four different pretreatments. The aw values of all the fried chips were less than 0.38, indicating that the products had a long shelf life. Therefore, the blanching, osmotic dehydration, and coating pretreatment before vacuum frying was the most suitable pretreatment for vacuum-fried shiitake mushroom chips.
The Role of Actin Dynamics and Actin-Binding Proteins Expression in Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition and Its Association with Cancer Progression and Evaluation of Possible Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Izdebska Magdalena , Zielińska Wioletta , Grzanka Dariusz , Gagat Maciej
Published: January 2018

Metastasis causes death of 90% of cancer patients, so it is the most significant issue associated with cancer disease. Thus, it is no surprise that many researchers are trying to develop drugs targeting or preventing them. The secondary tumour site formation is closely related to phenomena like epithelial-to-mesenchymal and its reverse, mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition. The change of the cells’ phenotype to mesenchymal involves the acquisition of migratory potential. Cancer cells movement is possible due to the development of invasive structures like invadopodia, lamellipodia, and filopodia. These changes are dependent on the reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton. In turn, the polymerization and depolymerization of actin are controlled by actin-binding proteins. In many tumour cells, the actin and actin-associated proteins are accumulated in the cell nucleus, suggesting that it may also affect the progression of cancer by regulating gene expression. Once the cancer cell reaches a new habitat it again acquires epithelial features and thus proliferative activity. Targeting of epithelial-to-mesenchymal or/and mesenchymal-to-epithelial transitions through regulation of their main components expression may be a potential solution to the problem of metastasis. This work focuses on the role of these processes in tumour progression and the assessment of therapeutic potential of agents targeting them.
Palmitoylethanolamide Dampens Reactive Astrogliosis and Improves Neuronal Trophic Support in a Triple Transgenic Model of Alzheimer’s Disease: In Vitro and In Vivo Evidence
Authors: Bronzuoli Maria Rosanna , Facchinetti Roberta , Steardo Luca , Romano Adele , Stecca Claudia , Passarella Sergio , Steardo Luca , Cassano Tommaso , Scuderi Caterina
Published: January 2018

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder responsible for the majority of dementia cases in elderly people. It is widely accepted that the main hallmarks of AD are not only senile plaques and neurofibrillary tangles but also reactive astrogliosis, which often precedes detrimental deposits and neuronal atrophy. Such phenomenon facilitates the regeneration of neural networks; however, under some circumstances, like in AD, reactive astrogliosis is detrimental, depriving neurons of the homeostatic support, thus contributing to neuronal loss. We investigated the presence of reactive astrogliosis in 3×Tg‐AD mice and the effects of palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), a well‐documented anti‐inflammatory molecule, by in vitro and in vivo studies. In vitro results revealed a basal reactive state in primary cortical 3×Tg‐AD‐derived astrocytes and the ability of PEA to counteract such phenomenon and improve viability of 3×Tg‐AD‐derived neurons. In vivo observations, performed using ultramicronized‐ (um‐) PEA, a formulation endowed with best bioavailability, confirmed the efficacy of this compound. Moreover, the schedule of treatment, mimicking the clinic use (chronic daily administration), revealed its beneficial pharmacological properties in dampening reactive astrogliosis and promoting the glial neurosupportive function. Collectively, our results encourage further investigation on PEA effects, suggesting it as an alternative or adjunct treatment approach for innovative AD therapy.
Performance Trades for Multiantenna GNSS Multisensor Attitude Determination Systems
Authors: Tehrani Nathan A. , Gross Jason N.
Published: January 2018

We present various performance trades for multiantenna global navigation satellite system (GNSS) multisensor attitude estimation systems. In particular, attitude estimation performance sensitivity to various error sources and system configurations is assessed. This study is motivated by the need for system designers, scientists, and engineers of airborne astronomical and remote sensing platforms to better determine which system configuration is most suitable for their specific application. In order to assess performance trade-offs, the attitude estimation performance of various approaches is tested using a simulation that is based on a stratospheric balloon platform. For GNSS errors, attention is focused on multipath, receiver measurement noise, and carrier-phase breaks. For the remaining attitude sensors, different performance grades of sensors are assessed. Through a Monte Carlo simulation, it is shown that, under typical conditions, sub-0.1-degree attitude accuracy is available when using multiple antenna GNSS data only, but that this accuracy can degrade to degree level in some environments warranting the inclusion of additional attitude sensors to maintain the desired level of accuracy. Further, we show that integrating inertial sensors is more valuable whenever accurate pitch and roll estimates are critical.
Remarks on Perfection in Plastic Surgery of the Face
Authors: Kobus Kazimierz , Kobus-Zaleśna Katarzyna
Published: January 2018

An expectation of perfect and close to ideal outcomes is attributed not only to aesthetic, but also to reconstructive surgery. Contrary to quite common belief and despite great potential, the real chances for achieving attractive appearance are limited to relatively simple cases with moderately abnormal morphology, sufficient homogenous material, and hardly conspicuous scars potential. Therefore, the expectations for fully satisfactory outcomes should be limited to jaw surgery, cosmetic rhinoplasty, otoplasty, and some rejuvenation procedures, provided the best and uneventful surgery is secured. On the basis of over 40 years of clinical practice (KK) and survey of about 30,000 photos presenting both early and long term outcomes, the authors present their own subjective opinion on the value and potential of plastic surgery with regard to aesthetic evaluation. The paper is illustrated by numerous examples of plastic and esthetic procedures.
Surgical Technique and Clinical Analysis of Twelve Cases of Isolated Laparoscopic Resection of the Hepatic Caudate Lobe
Authors: Jin Bin , Jiang Zhengchen , Hu Sanyuan , Du Gang , Shi Binyao , Kong Du , Yang Jinhuan
Published: January 2018

Objective. To describe the surgical procedures of laparoscopic caudate lobectomy and analyze its clinical efficiency for treating cancer.Methods. Twelve consecutive patients of hepatocellular carcinoma, hepatic hemangioma, and focal nodular hyperplasia who received laparoscopic caudate lobectomy in Qilu Hospital of Shandong University from January 2013 to January 2017 were included in this study. The clinical data, intraoperative parameters, and postoperative outcomes were assessed.Results. All 12 patients received totally laparoscopic technique. The operative time was140.8±95.34minutes. The average estimated blood loss was 97.92 ± 90.54 ml, and no blood transfusions were required. The mean duration of hospital stay was9.17±2.88days. There was no perioperative complication or patient mortality in this series.Conclusions. Laparoscopic caudate lobectomy is safe and feasible in the selected patients.
Apocynum venetum Leaf Extract Exerts Antidepressant‐Like Effects and Inhibits Hippocampal and Cortical Apoptosis of Rats Exposed to Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress
Authors: Wu Ting , Li Xiangting , Li Tingting , Cai Min , Yu Zhonghai , Zhang Jingsi , Zhang Zhennian , Zhang Wen , Xiang Jun , Cai Dingfang
Published: January 2018

We investigated the effects of Apocynum venetum leaf extract (AVLE) on depressive behaviors and neuronal apoptosis in a chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) rat model of depression. Rats were randomly divided into six groups: control, chronic unpredictable mild stress, fluoxetine, AVLE30, AVLE60, and AVLE120. Except for the control group, all rats were submitted to chronic unpredictable mild stress paradigms for four weeks to induce depressive behavior. Neuronal apoptosis was assessed by the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐ (TDT‐) mediated dUTP‐biotin nick end‐labeling (TUNEL) method. The expression levels of apoptosis‐related proteins, such as B‐cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl‐2), Bcl‐2 Associated X Protein (Bax), cysteine‐aspartic acid protease‐3 and protease‐9 (caspase‐3 and caspase‐9), cytochrome c (cyt‐C), brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and cAMP‐response element binding (CREB) protein, were evaluated by western blot. Treatment with AVLE (60 or 120 mg/kg/day) significantly improved depressive behavior. Increased apoptosis of hippocampus and cortical neurons were observed in CUMS rats, while 120 mg/kg/day of AVLE significantly reversed these changes and achieved the best antidepressant‐like effects among the doses tested. Moreover, AVLE (120 mg/kg) significantly increased Bcl‐2, BDNF, and CREB protein expression and decreased Bax, cyt‐C, and caspase family protein expression. Our results indicate that AVLE has potent antidepressant activity, likely due to its ability to suppress neuronal apoptosis.
Enteroparasites in Riverside Settlements in the Pantanal Wetlands Ecosystem
Authors: Silva Patrícia Vieira da , Maciel Lucimare dos Santos , Castro Ludiele Souza , Murat Paula Guerra , Higa Junior Minoru German , Zerlotti Patrícia Honorato , Motta-Castro Ana Rita Coimbra , Pontes Elenir Rose Jardim Cury , Dorval Maria Elizabeth Cavalheiros
Published: January 2018

Background. Intestinal parasites are a major source of health problems in developing countries, where socioeconomic, cultural, and environmental conditions contribute in maintaining the biological cycles of various parasites and facilitating their spread. The objective of this study, conducted in Corumbá, Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil, was to investigate the occurrence of intestinal parasites in riverside communities in the South Pantanal wetlands and conduct educational interventions focused on health and environmental preservation. Method. In total, 196 stool samples were tested for parasites using the merthiolate-iodine-formaldehyde concentration (MIFC) technique and spontaneous sedimentation and educational activities were carried out. Results. Enteroparasite prevalence was 72% (65.6–78.2%; 95% CI). Of the 141 positive cases, monoparasitism was found in 34.7%, biparasitism in 23%, and polyparasitism in 14.3%. Entamoeba coli was the most frequent protozoan (70.2%). Among helminths, hookworms were the most prevalent. Enteroparasitosis prevalence did not differ for sex or place of abode but proved higher in individuals older than 10 years. Conclusion. The high positivity rate for enteroparasites found for the communities stems from lack of sanitation and poor personal and environmental hygiene habits, indicating that effective health policies and educational interventions are needed to reduce the current risk levels.
Different Setting Conditions Affect Surface Characteristics and Microhardness of Calcium Silicate-Based Sealers
Authors: Yang Dong-Kyu , Kim Sunil , Park Jeong-Won , Kim Euiseong , Shin Su-Jung
Published: January 2018

Objective. To investigate the effect of different setting conditions on surface microhardness and setting properties of calcium silicate-based sealers. Methods. Three sealers, EndoSequence Bioceramic (BC; Brasseler USA, Savannah, GA, USA), Endoseal MTA (ES; Maruchi, Wonju, Korea), and Well-Root ST (WR; Vericom, Chuncheon, Korea), were compared. Specimens were exposed to either butyric acid (pH 5.4) or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS [pH 7.4]) for 48 h and stored at 100% humidity for 12 days. The control specimens were stored at 100% humidity for 14 days. Surface microhardness was measured, topographic changes were observed, and phase analysis was performed using X-ray diffraction. Microhardness according to storage conditions was compared using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey’s multiple comparison tests (P<.05). Results. The BC and ES sealers exhibited decreased microhardness when stored in acid or PBS compared with control (P<.05). In the WR group, acid exposure lowered microhardness of the specimens compared with control (P<.05). Scanning electron microscopy revealed different topographies in specimens from all tested sealers exposed to acid or PBS. Conclusion. The surface microhardness of calcium silicate-based sealers was reduced by exposure to either acid or PBS. Acid solutions, however, had a more detrimental effect than PBS.
Effects of Huanglian Jiedu Decoration in Rat Gingivitis
Authors: Zhang Fangbo , Geng Ya , Zhao Haiyu , Wang Hongjie , Zhang Yi , Li Defeng , Bian Baolin , Yang Hongjun
Published: January 2018

Gingivitis is an inflammatory disease that affects gingival tissues through a microbe‐immune interaction. Huanglian Jiedu decoction (HLJD) is used traditionally for clearing and detoxifying in China, which had been reported to possess many pharmacological effects. Rat gingival inflammation model was established by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection for 3 consecutive days, and HLJD was given by gavage before LPS injection. After 3 days rats were sacrificed and tissue samples were evaluated. Serum cytokine levels such as interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) were measured by enzyme‐linked immunoabsorbent assay (ELISA). Oxidative stress related molecules such as total antioxidant capacity (T‐AOC), malondialdehyde (MDA), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were determined. Expression of AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) and extracellular signal‐regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) signaling pathway were inspected by western blotting. Histological changes of gingival tissues were tested with hematoxylin‐eosin (HE) staining. HLJD significantly decreased serum levels of IL‐6 and TNF‐α, suppressed generation of MDA and ROS, and enhanced T‐AOC creation. Moreover, HLJD inhibited expressions of AMPK and ERK1/2. The inflammation severity of gingival tissue by HE staining was severe in model group but relieved in HLJD group obviously. HLJD exhibited protective effects against gingival damage through suppressing inflammation reaction and elevating antioxidation power.
An Experimental Investigation of Unbonded Laminated Elastomeric Bearings and the Seismic Evaluations of Highway Bridges with Tested Bearing Components
Authors: Wu Gang , Wang Kehai , Lu Guanya , Zhang Panpan
Published: January 2018

This paper presents an experimental program performed to investigate the behavioral characteristics of unbonded steel‐reinforced laminated elastomeric bearings (U‐SLEBs), which have been widely used for highway bridges in China. The influences on the friction behaviors, stiffness, and energy dissipations of the different parameters, such as compressive stresses, loading rates, and rubber material, were discussed. The responses of the U‐SLEBs were compared with those of the bonded steel‐reinforced laminated elastomeric bearings (B‐SLEBs). Then, effective analytical models were developed, which considered the mechanical degradation of the U‐SLEBs and simulated the realistic behaviors of the B‐SLEBs. The seismic responses of a multispan continuous bridge with tested bearing components were also evaluated. The results showed that the mechanical properties of the U‐SLEBs tended to degrade due to friction sliding. However, the degrees of the decrease were found to be dependent on the influencing parameters. Meanwhile, the B‐SLEBs exhibited stiffening behaviors that led to tearing under large displacement demands. The bridges using U‐SLEBs were found to suffer less damage due to the reliable sliding behavior of U‐SLEBs. It is recommended that shear keys, which are reasonably designed in the transverse direction, be constructed in order to achieve better seismic performance.
Preliminary Characterization of a Homogeneous Polysaccharide with Anticomplement Activity from Sijunzi Decoction
Authors: Wang Ruijun , Ji Yunfei , Peng Ying , Li Xiaobo
Published: January 2018

Sijunzi decoction (SJZD) is a classical herbal prescription in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) used for enhancing the function of immune system. In previous studies, a polysaccharide fraction S-3 was screened from SJZD by assessment of immune system regulation, intestinal microbiota, and SCFA in order to explore the immune active ingredients in SJZD. In the present study, S-3 was further purified, and a homogeneous polysaccharide S-3-1 with a molecular mass of 13.5 × 104 Da was obtained after further fractionation by Sephadex G-150 size-exclusion chromatography. The immunological activities of S-3-1 were assayed in vitro for the first time. The determination of the anticomplement activity showed that S-3-1 displayed inhibitory effects on classical pathway of the complement system, with CH50 values of 530 μg/mL. The FT-IR analysis showed that S-3-1 had absorptive peaks characteristic of polysaccharides. The methylation and GC-MS analysis showed that it is comprised of Rha, Ara, Xyl, Man, Gal, and Glc in a relative molar ratio of 0.35 : 0.37 : 1.4 : 0.31 : 3 : 0.8 and that it mainly contained 1,4-linked-Glc and 1,6-linked-Gal glycosidic bonds. The morphology of S-3-1 was observed by atomic force microscope (AFM). These results provided evidences for tracking the material basis of SJZD immune activity.
Effects of Human Connection through Social Drones and Perceived Safety
Authors: Kong Hwayeon , Biocca Frank , Lee Taeyang , Park Kihyuk , Rhee Jeonghoon
Published: January 2018

This study investigates whether people perceive social drones differently depending on pilot type and perceived safety. A “drone campus tour guide” social drone service was examined to explore these values. This study involves a between-subjects experiment using two drone control types (human-driven and algorithm-driven) and two levels of perceived safety (low and high). The results demonstrate that the drone pilot type changes the service experience when the drone is flying in an unsafe manner. In the group where the drones were flown in an unsafe manner, participants exhibited higher levels of satisfaction with the algorithm-driven drone guide, while both types of drones received the same level of satisfaction when they were flown safely. The results have implications for understanding how expectations influence service evaluations in relation to human connection.
Herbal Formula Modified Buzhong‐Yiqi‐Tang for Functional Constipation in Adults: A Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Gong Hanlin , Qin Feng , He Hongbo
Published: January 2018

Background. Herbal formula Modified Buzhong‐Yiqi‐Tang (MBYT) has been widely used for the treatment of functional constipation in East Asia, but its efficacy and safety are unclear. Methods. The study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of MBYT for adult patients with functional constipation. Randomized clinical trials were selected according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results. In total, twenty‐five randomized controlled clinical trials were included with 2089 patients. There was evidence that MBYT treatment significantly improved the symptoms of functional constipation compared with stimulant laxatives, osmotic laxatives, and prokinetic agents. Our results also demonstrated that, when used as an adjuvant therapy, MBYT significantly improved the symptoms of functional constipation, when compared with osmotic laxatives alone, prokinetic agents alone, and biofeedback alone. Moreover, patients taking MBYT experienced fewer adverse events compared to the control groups. Conclusion. This review suggests that MBYT appears to have excellent therapeutic effect on adult patients with functional constipation and no serious side effects were identified. However, due to overall limited quality, the therapeutic benefit of MBYT may be substantiated to a limited degree. Better methodological quality and large controlled trials are expected to further quantify the therapeutic effect of MBYT.
A Novel Boundary-Type Meshless Method for Modeling Geofluid Flow in Heterogeneous Geological Media
Authors: Xiao Jing-En , Ku Cheng-Yu , Liu Chih-Yu , Yeih Wei-Chung
Published: January 2018

A novel boundary-type meshless method for modeling geofluid flow in heterogeneous geological media was developed. The numerical solutions of geofluid flow are approximated by a set of particular solutions of the subsurface flow equation which are expressed in terms of sources located outside the domain of the problem. This pioneering study is based on the collocation Trefftz method and provides a promising solution which integrates the T-Trefftz method and F-Trefftz method. To deal with the subsurface flow problems of heterogeneous geological media, the domain decomposition method was adopted so that flux conservation and the continuity of pressure potential at the interface between two consecutive layers can be considered in the numerical model. The validity of the model is established for a number of test problems. Application examples of subsurface flow problems with free surface in homogenous and layered heterogeneous geological media were also carried out. Numerical results demonstrate that the proposed method is highly accurate and computationally efficient. The results also reveal that it has great numerical stability for solving subsurface flow with nonlinear free surface in layered heterogeneous geological media even with large contrasts in the hydraulic conductivity.
Genes Predisposed to DNA Hypermethylation during Acquired Resistance to Chemotherapy Are Identified in Ovarian Tumors by Bivalent Chromatin Domains at Initial Diagnosis
Authors: Curry Edward , Zeller Constanze , Masrour Nahal , Patten Darren K. , Gallon John , Wilhelm-Benartzi Charlotte S. , Ghaem-Maghami Sadaf , Bowtell David D. , Brown Robert
Published: January 2018

Bivalent chromatin domains containing both active H3K4me3 and repressive H3K27me3 histone marks define gene sets poised for expression or silencing in differentiating embryonic stem (ES) cells. In cancer cells, aberrantly poised genes may facilitate changes in transcriptional states after exposure to anticancer drugs. In this study, we used ChIP-seq to characterize genome-wide positioning of H3K4me3- and H3K27me3-associated chromatin in primary high-grade serous ovarian carcinomas and in normal ovarian surface and fallopian tube tissue. Gene sets with proximal bivalent marks defined in this manner were evaluated subsequently as signatures of systematic change in DNA methylation and gene expression, comparing pairs of tissue samples taken from patients at primary presentation and relapse following chemotherapy. We found that gene sets harboring bivalent chromatin domains at their promoters in tumor tissue, but not normal epithelia, overlapped with Polycomb-repressive complex target genes as well as transcriptionally silenced genes in normal ovarian and tubal stem cells. The bivalently marked genes we identified in tumors before chemotherapy displayed increased promoter CpG methylation and reduced gene expression at relapse after chemotherapy of ovarian cancer. Overall, our results support the hypothesis that preexisting histone modifications at genes in a poised chromatin state may lead to epigenetic silencing during acquired drug resistance.

Significance: These results suggest epigenetic targets for intervention to prevent the emergence of cancer drug resistance. Cancer Res; 78(6); 1383–91. ©2018 AACR.
AMPK–Akt Double-Negative Feedback Loop in Breast Cancer Cells Regulates Their Adaptation to Matrix Deprivation
Authors: Saha Manipa , Kumar Saurav , Bukhari Shoiab , Balaji Sai A. , Kumar Prashant , Hindupur Sravanth K. , Rangarajan Annapoorni
Published: January 2018

Cell detachment from the extracellular matrix triggers anoikis. Disseminated tumor cells must adapt to survive matrix deprivation, while still retaining the ability to attach at secondary sites and reinitiate cell division. In this study, we elucidate mechanisms that enable reversible matrix attachment by breast cancer cells. Matrix deprival triggered AMPK activity and concomitantly inhibited AKT activity by upregulating the Akt phosphatase PHLPP2. The resultant pAMPKhigh/pAktlow state was critical for cell survival in suspension, as PHLPP2 silencing also increased anoikis while impairing autophagy and metastasis. In contrast, matrix reattachment led to Akt-mediated AMPK inactivation via PP2C-α-mediated restoration of the pAkthigh/pAMPKlow state. Clinical specimens of primary and metastatic breast cancer displayed an Akt-associated gene expression signature, whereas circulating breast tumor cells displayed an elevated AMPK-dependent gene expression signature. Our work establishes a double-negative feedback loop between Akt and AMPK to control the switch between matrix-attached and matrix-detached states needed to coordinate cell growth and survival during metastasis.

Significance: These findings reveal a molecular switch that regulates cancer cell survival during metastatic dissemination, with the potential to identify targets to prevent metastasis in breast cancer. Cancer Res; 78(6); 1497–510. ©2018 AACR.
Radioresistant Cervical Cancers Are Sensitive to Inhibition of Glycolysis and Redox Metabolism
Authors: Rashmi Ramachandran , Huang Xiaojing , Floberg John M. , Elhammali Adnan E. , McCormick Michael L. , Patti Gary J. , Spitz Douglas R. , Schwarz Julie K.
Published: January 2018

Highly glycolytic cervical cancers largely resist treatment by cisplatin and coadministered pelvic irradiation as the present standard of care. In this study, we investigated the effects of inhibiting glycolysis and thiol redox metabolism to evaluate them as alternate treatment strategies in these cancers. In a panel of multiple cervical cancer cell lines, we evaluated sensitivity to inhibition of glycolysis (2-deoxyglucose, 2-DG) with or without simultaneous inhibition of glutathione and thioredoxin metabolism (BSO/AUR). Intracellular levels of total and oxidized glutathione, thioredoxin reductase activity, and indirect measures of intracellular reactive oxygen species were compared before and after treatment. Highly radioresistant cells were the most sensitive to 2-DG, whereas intermediate radioresistant cells were sensitive to 2-DG plus BSO/AUR. In response to 2-DG/BSO/AUR treatment, we observed increased levels of intracellular oxidized glutathione, redox-sensitive dye oxidation, and decreased glucose utilization via multiple metabolic pathways including the tricarboxylic acid cycle. 2-DG/BSO/AUR treatment delayed the growth of tumors composed of intermediate radioresistant cells and effectively radiosensitized these tumors at clinically relevant radiation doses both in vitro and in vivo. Overall, our results support inhibition of glycolysis and intracellular redox metabolism as an effective alternative drug strategy for the treatment of highly glycolytic and radioresistant cervical cancers.

Significance: This study suggests a simple metabolic approach to strike at an apparent Achilles' heel in highly glycolytic, radioresistant forms of cervical cancers, possibly with broader applications in cancer therapy. Cancer Res; 78(6); 1392–403. ©2018 AACR.
Role of Chromatin Damage and Chromatin Trapping of FACT in Mediating the Anticancer Cytotoxicity of DNA-Binding Small-Molecule Drugs
Authors: Nesher Elimelech , Safina Alfiya , Aljahdali Ieman , Portwood Scott , Wang Eunice S. , Koman Igor , Wang Jianmin , Gurova Katerina V.
Published: January 2018

Precisely how DNA-targeting chemotherapeutic drugs trigger cancer cell death remains unclear, as it is difficult to separate direct DNA damage from other effects in cells. Recent work on curaxins, a class of small-molecule drugs with broad anticancer activity, shows that they interfere with histone–DNA interactions and destabilize nucleosomes without causing detectable DNA damage. Chromatin damage caused by curaxins is sensed by the histone chaperone FACT, which binds unfolded nucleosomes becoming trapped in chromatin. In this study, we investigated whether classical DNA-targeting chemotherapeutic drugs also similarly disturbed chromatin to cause chromatin trapping of FACT (c-trapping). Drugs that directly bound DNA induced both chromatin damage and c-trapping. However, chromatin damage occurred irrespective of direct DNA damage and was dependent on how a drug bound DNA, specifically, in the way it bound chromatinized DNA in cells. FACT was sensitive to a plethora of nucleosome perturbations induced by DNA-binding small molecules, including displacement of the linker histone, eviction of core histones, and accumulation of negative supercoiling. Strikingly, we found that the cytotoxicity of DNA-binding small molecules correlated with their ability to cause chromatin damage, not DNA damage. Our results suggest implications for the development of chromatin-damaging agents as selective anticancer drugs.

Significance: These provocative results suggest that the anticancer efficacy of traditional DNA-targeting chemotherapeutic drugs may be based in large part on chromatin damage rather than direct DNA damage. Cancer Res; 78(6); 1431–43. ©2018 AACR.
Effect of Remote Ischemic Preconditioning on Systemic Toxicity and Ototoxicity Induced by Cisplatin in Rats: Role of TNF-α and Nitric Oxide
Authors: Martins Marcos Jullian Barreto , Batista Avner Marcos Alves , Brito Yuri Neyson Ferreira , Soares Pedro Marcos Gomes , Martins Conceição da Silva , Ribeiro Ronaldo de Albuquerque , Brito Gerly Anne de Castro , de Freitas Marcos Rabelo
Published: January 2018

Background/Aims: Cisplatin is a chemotherapeutic agent. The use of remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) was proposed after the observation that ischemic preconditioning of a cardiac vascular area could protect another completely distinctly. Methods: This is an experimental study. Male Wistar rats were anesthetized, and they underwent a hearing evaluation via measurement of the brainstem auditory evoked potential (BSAEP). Then, cisplatin was administered intraperitoneally (IP) at a dose of 8 mg/kg/day for 4 consecutive days to group 1, whereas saline solution was administered IP to group 2. In groups 3 and 4, ischemia of the right hind paw was performed for 10 min, followed by reperfusion for 30 min, after which cisplatin or saline was administered IP to group 3 or group 4, respectively. Afterwards, all animals were evaluated via the BSAEP. The right cochlea was dissected for immunohistochemistry. Results: RIPC lowered the increase in BSAEP of the animals treated with cisplatin (p = 0.0146). Weight loss decreased in the animals subjected to RIPC (p < 0.005). In group 3, RIPC reversed immunostaining for tumor necrosis factor-α and inducible nitric oxide synthase in the stria vascularis injured by cisplatin (p < 0.05). Conclusion: RIPC protects against systemic toxicity and ototoxicity induced by cisplatin in rats.
Application of Immunocytochemistry on Cell Block Sections for the Investigation of Thyroid Lesions
Authors: Margari Niki , Giovannopoulos Ilias , Pouliakis Abraham , Mastorakis Emmanouil , Gouloumi Alina Roxani , Panayiotides Ioannis G. , Karakitsos Petros
Published: January 2018

Objective: To investigate the potential of Classification and Regression Trees (CARTs) for the diagnosis of thyroid lesions based on cell block immunocytochemistry and cytological outcome. Study Design: A total of 956 histologically confirmed cases (673 benign and 283 malignant) from patients with thyroid nodules were prepared via liquid-based cytology and evaluated; 4 additional slides were stained for cytokeratin 19 (CK-19), galectin 3 (Gal-3), Hector Battifora mesothelial cell 1 (HBME-1), and thyroglobulin. On the basis of immunocytochemistry and the cytological diagnosis, a CART algorithm was constructed and used for evaluation. Results: The major important factors contributing to the diagnostic CART model were: cytological outcome, CK-19, Gal-3, and HBME-1. The sensitivity and specificity of the cytological diagnosis were 96.27% and 88.26%, respectively (cut-off: category 3 of The Bethesda System [TBS-3]). The introduction of immunocytochemistry and the CART model increased the sensitivity and specificity to 98.88% and 99.11%, respectively. CK-19 presented the best performance for discriminating papillary thyroid carcinomas, followed by HBME-1 and Gal-3. In the TBS-2 cases, CK-19 and, subsequently, Gal-3 were important immunocytochemistry markers. Ultimately, CK-19 and HBME-1 on TBS-5 or TBS-6 cases demonstrated the best results. Conclusions: The hierarchical structure of the CART model provides a diagnostic algorithm linked with the risk of malignancy at every step of the procedure. It also provides guidance on the use of ancillary examinations as it goes by simple, human understandable rules.
Further Evidence of the Positive Influence of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation on Speech and Language in Patients with Aphasia after Stroke: Results from a Double-Blind Intervention with Sham Condition
Authors: Haghighi Mohammad , Mazdeh Mehrdokht , Ranjbar  Nazila , Seifrabie Mohammad Ali
Published: January 2018

Background: After a stroke, up to 20% of patients suffer from aphasia. The preferred treatment for stroke-related aphasia (SRA) is regular speech and language training (SLT). In the present study, we investigated to what extent adjuvant repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) might enhance recovery. While there is growing evidence of the positive effect of adjuvant rTMS on aphasia, no study has yet been based on an Iranian sample. Method: A total of 12 patients (mean age: 55 years; right-handed; 7 women) underwent treatment for SRA 1 month after stroke. The standard treatment consisted of regular 45-min SLT sessions 5 times a week for 2 consecutive weeks. Additionally, patients were randomly assigned either to adjuvant rTMS (5 times a week for 30 min) or to a sham condition (5 times a week for 30 min). At baseline and after 2 weeks of intervention, the degree of aphasia was assessed with the Farsi version of the Western Aphasia Battery. rTMS was applied to the inferior posterior frontal gyrus of the right hemisphere. Results: Speech and language improved over time, but more so in the rTMS than in the sham condition. Large effect sizes were observed for content, fluency, and the aphasia quotient; medium effect sizes were observed for command comprehension and repetition, while effect sizes were small for auditory comprehension and naming. Conclusions: Among patients with SRA, compared to a sham condition, adjuvant rTMS improved speech and language skills. The present results add to the accumulating evidence that rTMS as a neuromodulation technique has the capacity to enhance the effect of conventional SLT.
A desconstrução de Cabo Verde como um brasilin: um cabo-verdiano em terras brasileiras
Authors: Furtado Cláudio Alves
Published: January 2018

O artigo procura, a partir de um registro pessoal, refletir sobre as múltiplas e por vezes ambíguas visões que marcam um desconhecimento de africanos do Brasil e dos brasileiros em relação aos africanos, levando, não raras vezes, a construção de narrativas que tendem a essencializar e reificar o Outro. A matriz africana da cultura brasileira e a influência da ancestralidade africana na formação da identidade cultural brasileira, de um lado, e a visão de um Brasil racialmente mestiço e cordial, veiculada tanto em trabalhos acadêmicos quanto nos produtos de exportação como as telenovelas, tende a conformar uma imagem, no mínimo, romântica dos africanos. Tendo como foco de análise, especificamente, a construção imagética do Brasil em Cabo Verde, o texto confronta tal construção com a vivência de uma realidade que teima em não aceitá-la.
Barbaridades e violências
Authors: Bagnol Brigitte
Published: January 2018

A autora delineia a sua trajetória de convivência íntima com as violências e com as consequências infligidas na mente e no corpo de todas as pessoas que estão envolvidas nelas. Com exemplo de Moçambique, África do Sul e Ruanda e violências ligadas a guerra, a fome, ao HIV/AIDS e ao gênero ela articula, percorrendo fragmentos de suas experiências, as diferentes camadas e formas de violência que afligem os/as mais desemparados/as. A aproximação da violência física, da violência estrutural, da violência simbólica e das suas várias combinações destroem os seres humanas e, sobretudo, os/as que têm de conviver com a multiplicidade das suas formas. A proposta é de encontrar formas de desenvolver uma nova ética de cidadania, de empatia e solidariedade que procura desarmar estas violências.
Lembranças do pós-guerra no sul de Angola: vivências e reconstrução da vida cotidiana
Authors: Sampaio Camila A. M.
Published: January 2018

Neste artigo enfatizo a presença da guerra como evento crítico na trajetória de alguns habitantes da província do Cunene, ao sul de Angola. Percorro aspectos históricos gerais da região, mapeando o contexto de episódios de violência que marcaram o território. Apresento como o próprio Estado elege um heterodoxo monumento como símbolo da destruição gerada pela guerra, forjando para si uma imagem de Estado em prol da paz. São analisadas trajetórias e percepções de pessoas que vivenciaram a guerra em diferentes intensidades e reelaboram cotidianamente formas de estar no mundo. Ter visto “uma guerra só”; estar “à espera do marido”; receber a ajuda financeira e afetiva de uma “amizade interessada”; trabalhar de forma itinerante e nem sempre remunerada: todas essas são formas que ultrapassam o lugar do trauma e que se adaptam diariamente às possibilidades diante daquele contexto.
Vida e Morte do “Agrupamento 26” (2011-2013): breve etnografia do Morar Carioca na “Barra Olímpica”
Authors: Cavalcanti Mariana
Published: January 2018

O artigo constrói a breve trajetória do programa Morar Carioca, lançado pela Prefeitura do Rio de Janeiro em 2010 com o objetivo de urbanizar todas as favelas da cidade até 2020. A narrativa se desenrola a partir da experiência e dos dados coletados em campo ao longo dos seis meses em que fui responsável pelo componente “social” do trabalho do escritório Corcovado Arquitetura e Design, no dito “agrupamento 26”, formado por 8 favelas localizadas nas proximidades de onde se encontram em construção alguns dos principais equipamentos destinados as Olimpiadas de 2016.
Registros de um olhar pelo sul da Etiópia
Authors: Novaes Sylvia Caiuby
Published: January 2018

Imagens são sempre construídas, a partir do olhar que as registra. As que aqui apresento foram captadas no sul da Etiópia, em viagens que fiz a esse país em 2005, 2013 e 2017. Meu objetivo é contrapor essas imagens àquela que as pessoas têm em mente quando pensam nesse país, imagem que se cristalizou após um período de fome entre 1983-1985 em que morreram cerca de um milhão de pessoas.
Querença: construção de uma cena afro-brasileira
Authors: Soares Vanessa S.
Published: January 2018

Este artigo trata de Querença, vivência cênica realizada pelo Grupo Saramuná, inspirada nas reminiscências acerca da religiosidade afro-brasileira presente nas manifestações populares. Esta pesquisa foi desenvolvida pela autora usando como metodologia o laboratório de criação “Ancestralidade – Matrizes – Cena Afro-brasileira”, com a finalidade de colocar em questão os desdobramentos da cultura tradicional em diálogo com as artes da cena, na perspectiva de construção de uma cena afro-brasileira fundamentada, cuja estrutura baseia-se na compreensão da memória ancestral e nas suas correlações com o religioso e o sagrado, as artes cênicas e a educação. Conclui-se que é importante para a artista negra fazer vibrar o potencial da participação e pertencimento que as culturas de matriz africana possibilitam.
Um intérprete africano do Brasil: Kabengele Munanga
Authors: Dantas Sylvia , Ferreira Ligia , Véras Maura Pardini Bicudo
Published: January 2018

On September 28, 2006 the Intercultural Dialogue Group from the Institute for Advanced Study (IEA) of the University of São Paulo (USP), organized a talk with Professor Kabengele Munanga, named A pathway between cultures: Kabengele Munanga, an African interpreter of Brazil. The meeting was coordinated by Ligia Ferreira and Maura Véras; and was attended by the group coordinator Sylvia Dantas and Professors Adriana Capuano and Paulo Farah.
Saúde mental, interculturalidade e imigração
Authors: Dantas Sylvia
Published: January 2018

Displacements and intercultural contact present deep subjective challenges both for migrants and receiving societies. Immigration and refuge entail institutional changes the country must be prepared for. Although there are successful immigrant-receiving initiatives, we also witness situations of discriminating, stigmatizing and pathologizing situations in a society commonly seen as hospitable. Based on our research at USP and Unifesp on intercultural psychological assistance and counseling to immigrants, returnees and refugees, we present the development of a new model for understanding the migratory phenomenon, the intercultural psychodynamic approach, and case studies to illustrate it.
Evolution of the cloacal and genital musculature, and the genitalia morphology in liolemid lizards (Iguania: Liolaemidae) with remarks on their phylogenetic bearing
Authors: Quipildor Matías , Abdala Virginia , Santa Cruz Farfán Roy , Lobo Fernando
Published: January 2018

In this study, we describe the intra- and interspecific anatomical variations of cloacal and related muscles of male and female genitalia in species of five iguanian genera (three liolemid: Ctenoblepharys, Liolaemus, and Phymaturus plus Diplolaemus leopardinus and Tropidurus melanopleurus as outgroups). We found variations (seventeen characters) in topology, origin and insertion areas, tendon morphology and size of the musculature of this region. We also describe the variations of hemipeneal morphology, which is especially notable for the hemipenis of C. adspersa, D. leopardinus, and T. melanopleurus, as this is first time they are described in the literature. Among the most significant findings are the identification of three new muscles, two of them inserted on the roof of the cloacal chamber (anterior and posterior cloacal retractor) and the third inserted superficially in the floor of the cloaca, just before anterior to the precloacal glands row (superficialis cloacalis retractor). We report sexual dimorphism in seven muscle characters. Musculature related to hemiclitoris is reduced in proportion to its size in comparison to the degree of development of male genitalia and associated musculature. The evolution of characters was traced on the known phylogenetic hypotheses of relationships among families. Characters taken from the cloacal/genital myology bring similar support to the liolaemid tree even rooting the analysis using different outgroups. In addition, a phylogenetic study using only myological characters was performed. In this case, C. adspersa was found to be more related to Liolaemus species instead of being basal to Liolaemus plus Phymaturus.
Allium istanbulense, a new autumnal species of A. sect. Codonoprasum (Amaryllidaceae) from Turkey and its taxonomic position among allied species
Authors: ÖZHATAY NERIMAN , KOÇYIGIT MINE , BRULLO SALVATORE , SALMERI CRISTINA
Published: January 2018

Allium istanbulense, a new species of Allium sect. Codonoprasum, is described and illustrated from Istanbul surroundings (European Turkey). It is a late-flowering diploid species (2n = 16), occurring in the undergrowth of oak or pine woods mainly on sandy or incoherent soils. Its morphology, karyology, leaf anatomy, seed micromorphology, ecology, conservation status and taxonomic relationships are examined. A taxonomic comparison with the most allied late flowering species of sect. Codonoprasum and identification keys of the group are also provided.
Flora of Nam Kading National Protected Area III: Begonia namkadingensis (Begoniaceae), a new species in limestone area
Authors: YANG CHEN-JUI , TAGANE SHUICHIRO , SOULADETH PHETLASY , OKABE NORIKAZU , HU JER-MING , YAHARA TETSUKAZU
Published: January 2018

A new species of Begonia (Begoniaceae), B. namkadingensis, is described. This species was collected on moist mossy limestone rocks in the Nam Kading National Protected Area in central Laos during our field survey in 2017. The species resembles B. pteridiformis, which is endemic to Peninsular Thailand, but can be distinguished by its smaller habit, fewer and smaller leaves, less hairy stems and leaves, narrower inner dorsal tepal of pistillate flowers, fewer stamens, and smaller fruits.
Memory Matters: A Case for Granger Causality in Climate Variability Studies
Authors: McGraw Marie C. , Barnes Elizabeth A.
Published: January 2018

In climate variability studies, lagged linear regression is frequently used to infer causality. While lagged linear regression analysis can often provide valuable information about causal relationships, lagged regression is also susceptible to overreporting significant relationships when one or more of the variables has substantial memory (autocorrelation). Granger causality analysis takes into account the memory of the data and is therefore not susceptible to this issue. A simple Monte Carlo example highlights the advantages of Granger causality, compared to traditional lagged linear regression analysis in situations with one or more highly autocorrelated variables. Differences between the two approaches are further explored in two illustrative examples applicable to large-scale climate variability studies. Given that Granger causality is straightforward to calculate, Granger causality analysis may be preferable to traditional lagged regression analysis when one or more datasets has large memory.