bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbial and host immune factors as drivers of COPD
Authors: Mika Moana , Nita Izabela , Morf Laura , Qi Weihong , Beyeler Seraina , Bernasconi Eric , Marsland Benjamin J. , Ott Sebastian R. , von Garnier Christophe , Hilty Markus
Published: July 2018

Compartmentalisation of the respiratory tract microbiota in patients with different chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) severity degrees needs to be systematically investigated. In addition, it is unknown if the inflammatory and emphysematous milieux in patients with COPD are associated with changes in the respiratory tract microbiota and host macrophage gene expression.

We performed a cross-sectional study to compare non-COPD controls (n=10) to COPD patients (n=32) with different disease severity degrees. Samples (n=187) were obtained from different sites of the upper and lower respiratory tract. Microbiota analyses were performed by 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing and host gene expression analyses by quantitative real-time PCR of distinct markers of bronchoalveolar lavage cells.

Overall, the microbial communities of severe COPD (Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) grade 3/4) patients clustered significantly differently to controls and less severe COPD (GOLD 1/2) patients (permutational multivariate ANOVA (MANOVA), p=0.001). However, we could not detect significant associations between the different sampling sites in the lower airways. In addition, the chosen set of host gene expression markers significantly separated COPD GOLD 3/4 patients, and we found correlations between the composition of the microbiota and the host data.

In conclusion, this study demonstrates associations between host gene expression and microbiota profiles that may influence the course of COPD.
3-O-acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid exerts anti-tumor effects in glioblastoma by arresting cell cycle at G2/M phase
Authors: Li Wan , Liu Jinyi , Fu Weiqi , Zheng Xiangjin , Ren Liwen , Liu Shiwei , Wang Jinhua , Ji Tengfei , Du Guanhua
Published: July 2018

Background

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common, malignant, and lethal primary brain tumor in adults accounting for about 50% of all gliomas. Up to now, the chemotherapy approaches for GBM were limited. 3-O-acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA), the major active ingredient of the gum resin from Boswellia serrata and Boswellia carteri Birdw., was reported to inhibit the growth of many types of cancer cells; however, the underlying mechanism of its anticancer effects are still unclear.

Methods

The effects of AKBA on cell viability and its cytotoxicity were determined using CCK8 and LDH kits respectively. The EdU-DNA synthesis assay was used to evaluate inhibition of cell proliferation by AKBA. The role of AKBA in glioblastoma cell functions such as migration/invasion, and colony formation was evaluated using transwell chambers and soft agar, respectively. Flow cytometry and western blotting were used to detect AKBA-induced apoptosis. Potential mechanisms of AKBA action were explored by RNA sequencing and the identified hub genes were validated by real-time quantitative PCR and western blotting. Finally, the in vivo anti-tumor activity of AKBA was evaluated against a human glioblastoma cell line, U87-MG, in a xenograft mouse model.

Results

AKBA inhibited cell proliferation, caused the release of LDH, decreased DNA synthesis, and inhibited the migration, invasion, and colony formation of U251 and U87-MG human glioblastoma cell lines. AKBA increased apoptosis as well as the activity of caspase 3/7 and the protein expression of cleaved-caspase 3 and cleaved PARP, while decreasing mitochondrial membrane potential. RNA-sequencing analyses showed that AKBA suppressed the expression of pRB, FOXM1, Aurora A, PLK1, CDC25C, p-CDK1, cyclinB1, Aurora B, and TOP2A while increasing the expression of p21 and GADD45A. These findings were validated by qRT-PCR and western blotting. The data are consistent with a mechanism in which AKBA arrested the cell cycle in glioblastoma cells at the G2/M phase by regulating the p21/FOXM1/cyclin B1 pathway, inhibited mitosis by downregulating the Aurora B/TOP2A pathway, and induced mitochondrial-dependent apoptosis. Oral administration of AKBA (100 mg/kg) significantly suppressed the tumorigenicity of U87-MG cells in a xenograft mouse model.

Conclusions

Taken together, these results suggest that AKBA (molecular weight, 512.7 Da) might be a promising chemotherapy drug in the treatment of GBM.
The volatilome – investigation of volatile organic metabolites (VOM) as potential tumor markers in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC)
Authors: Opitz Philipp , Herbarth Olf
Published: July 2018

Background

Different organisms such as bacteria, molds and humans produce and release a relative unknown class of metabolites which are responsible for the individual olfactory pattern. These volatile organic metabolites (VOM) represent a kind of biosignature that reflects the sum of all multifactorial influences, including genetics, environmental factors, nutritional and disease status. As a result of pathological processes the individual body odor can be influenced by newly produced or altered compositions of the VOM. Until now, human VOM have been detected in various body media, such as on the skin, in the exhaled air as well as in body fluids such as saliva, mother's milk, sweat, blood and urine.

Methods

In this retrospective case-control study urinary VOM of 53 therapy-naive patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and 82 healthy controls were semi-quantified by headspace solid-phase micro extraction (SPME) gas chromatography (GC) mass spectrometry (MS). At first, the procedure was optimized in respect to the extraction parameters. By using Student's t-test significant differences in the VOM pattern with the corresponding p-values were obtained. For multivariate metabolite pattern recognition the hierarchical cluster analysis by Ward was applied, followed by the supervised partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA).

Results

In total 81 VOMs could identified in the urine samples of all study participants, of which 25 were significantly increased and of which were 10 significantly reduced in HNSCC-patients compared to the controls. In addition, the multivariate statistics confirmed that on the basis of the renal excreted pattern of the volatile metabolites a high discrimination can be carried out between patients with a tumor in the head and neck region and controls. The substance group of the saturated, unbranched aldehydes makes a substantial contribution in this context.

Conclusions

The systematic pattern analysis of urinary VOMs appears to have potential clinical application as a diagnostic tool for cancer, especially HNSCC.
Introduction to this special section: Spotlight on the Mediterranean
Authors: Zimmer Ulrich
Published: July 2018

In recent years, the eastern Mediterranean Sea has seen a significant increase in exploration activities. Although it was probably Italian oil and gas company Eni's record-breaking Zohr find in 2015 that put the region on the radar of many geoscientists, the region has seen significant finds since 2009 with the discovery of the Tamar and Leviathan gas fields in Israeli waters. In 2011, Cyprus announced the Aphrodite discovery with an estimated gas reserve of 4.2 tcf. This was dwarfed in 2015 by the Zohr discovery's 30 tcf of potential reserves, which, if realized, would single-handedly almost double Egypt's gas reserves. All this activity is reason enough for The Leading Edge to take a closer look at the region.
Early Motor Unit Conduction Velocity Changes to High-Intensity Interval Training versus Continuous Training
Authors: MARTINEZ-VALDES EDUARDO , FARINA DARIO , NEGRO FRANCESCO , DEL VECCHIO ALESSANDRO , FALLA DEBORAH
Published: July 2018

Purpose

Moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) are associated with different adjustments in motor output. Changes in motor unit (MU) peripheral properties may contribute to these adjustments, but this is yet to be elucidated. This study evaluated early changes in MU conduction velocity (MUCV) and MU action potential amplitude after 2 wk of either HIIT or MICT.

Methods

Sixteen men were assigned to either an MICT group or HIIT group (n = 8 each), and participated in six training sessions over 14 d. HIIT: 8 to 12 × 60-s intervals at 100% peak power output. Moderate-intensity continuous training: 90 to 120 min continuous cycling at ~65% V˙O2peak. Preintervention and postintervention, participants performed maximal voluntary contractions (MVC) and submaximal (10%, 30%, 50%, and 70% of MVC) isometric knee extensions while high-density EMG was recorded from the vastus medialis (VM) and vastus lateralis (VL) muscles. The high-density EMG was decomposed into individual MU by convolutive blind-source separation and tracked preintervention and postintervention.

Results

Both training interventions induced changes in MUCV, but these changes depended on the type of training (P < 0.001). The HIIT group showed higher values of MUCV after training at all torque levels (P < 0.05), MICT only displayed changes in MUCV at low torque levels (10%–30% MVC, P < 0.002). There were no changes in MU action potential amplitude for either group (P = 0.2).

Conclusions

Two weeks of HIIT or MICT elicit differential changes in MUCV, likely due to the contrasting load and volume used in such training regimes. This new knowledge on the neuromuscular adaptations to training has implications for exercise prescription.
Reducing Impact Loading in Runners: A One-Year Follow-up
Authors: BOWSER BRADLEY J , FELLIN REBECCA , MILNER CLARE E. , POHL MICHAEL B. , DAVIS IRENE S.
Published: July 2018

Increased vertical impact loading during running has been associated with a variety of running related injuries including stress fractures, patellofemoral pain, and plantar fasciitis.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine the acute and long-term effect of a gait retraining program aimed at teaching runners with high impact loading to run softer.

Methods

Nineteen runners with high tibial shock (TS) first underwent a control period of eight sessions of treadmill running over 2 wk, progressing from 15 to 30 min. This was followed by eight sessions of gait retraining over 2 wk using the identical treadmill protocol. Real-time feedback of TS was provided as the participant ran. Feedback was gradually removed during the last four sessions. Variables of interest included peak TS, vertical impact peak and vertical average loading rate, and vertical instantaneous loading rate. These variables were assessed at intervals following the retraining and at a 1-yr follow-up.

Results

All variables of interest were significantly reduced post-retraining (P < 0.001). TS was reduced by 32%, vertical impact peak by 21%, vertical instantaneous loading rate by 27%, and vertical average loading rate by 25%. All variables continued to be significantly reduced at a 1-yr follow-up.

Conclusions

Impact loading can be reduced through gait retraining and the results persist at least 1 yr. As impact loading is associated with injury, this simple intervention may provide a powerful method of reducing musculoskeletal injury risk in runners.
Mismatch Unemployment and the Geography of Job Search
Authors: Marinescu Ioana , Rathelot Roland
Published: July 2018

Could we significantly reduce US unemployment by helping job seekers move closer to jobs? Using data from the leading employment board CareerBuilder.com, we show that, indeed, workers dislike applying to distant jobs: job seekers are 35 percent less likely to apply to a job 10 miles (mi.) away from their zip code of residence. However, because job seekers are close enough to vacancies on average, this distaste for distance is fairly inconsequential: our search and matching model predicts that relocating job seekers to minimize unemployment would decrease unemployment by only 5.3 percent. Geographic mismatch is thus a minor driver of aggregate unemployment. (JEL E24, J41, J61, J63, J64, R23)
ΣΤΑΘΕΡΑ ΚΑΙ AKTINΕΡΓΑ ΙΣΟΤΟΠΑ- Η ΧΡΗΣΙΣ ΤΩΝ ΑΚΤΙΝΕΡΓΩΝ ΙΣΟΤΟΠΩΝ ΕΝ ΤΗ ΒΙΟΧΗΜΕΙΑ, ΦΥΣΙΟΛΟΓΙΑ & ΙΑΤΡΙΚΗ
Authors: ΑΣΠΙΩΤΗΣ ΝΙΚ.
Published: July 2018

NO ABSTRACT AVAILABLE
An end to end workflow for differential gene expression using Affymetrix microarrays
Authors: Klaus Bernd , Reisenauer Stefanie
Published: July 2018

In this article, we walk through an end-to-end Affymetrix microarray differential expression workflow using Bioconductor packages. This workflow is directly applicable to current "Gene'' type arrays, e.g.the HuGene or MoGene arrays, but can easily be adapted to similar platforms. The data analyzed here is a typical clinical microarray data set that compares inflamed and non-inflamed colon tissue in two disease subtypes. For each disease, the differential gene expression between inflamed- and non-inflamed colon tissue was analyzed. We will start from the raw data CEL files, show how to import them into a Bioconductor ExpressionSet, perform quality control and normalization and finally differential gene expression (DE) analysis, followed by some enrichment analysis.
Suelos securitarios. Hacia una antropología urbana de las asociaciones vecinales por la seguridad en la ciudad de La Plata, Argentina
Authors: Vélez Joaquín
Published: July 2018

Este trabajo se propone reflexionar e indagar sobre diversas dimensiones en las que se manifiesta y construye el problema de la (in)seguridad y su gestión por diferentes actores. Para ello, se hará un foco en el espacio urbano delimitado por la ciudad de La Plata y en algunas organizaciones actuales, como Vecinos en alerta, Asambleas por la seguridad y otros emergentes, a partir de un trabajo de campo etnográfico que involucra usos de mensajería instantánea, políticas y agendas públicas y reflexiones metodológicas sobre el ejercicio de la etnografía en estos contextos. Una de las preguntas centrales de esta investigación, se entronca en el esfuerzo que existe en ámbitos académicos y políticos para comprender ciertas tendencias hacia una securización de la agenda pública y formas novedosas de gubernamentalidad, en parte marcadas por tendencias electorales conservadoras. En este sentido, en las sociedades definidas por algunos como ‘posneoliberales’ (Sozzo, 2016), queda aún por comprender ciertos suelos culturales (Kusch, 2007) y condiciones de posibilidad (Tiscornia, 2004) para que los discursos de inflacionismo penal y populismo punitivo, las prácticas de linchamiento y las diferentes formas de represión policial, que parecen estar en alza, sean compuestos. En una primera parte se abordarán problemas conceptuales y generales de la región para luego hacer foco en los casos y trabajo de campo que aquí competen.
La inseguridad en el transporte público del Área Metropolitana de Buenos Aires. Experiencias y percepciones de mujeres y varones
Authors: Pereyra Leda Paula , Gutiérrez Andrea , Nerome Mariela Mitsuko
Published: July 2018

El trabajo busca visibilizar una forma de la inseguridad ciudadana aun no analizada en profundidad: aquella en el transporte público. Si bien, la vulneración de la seguridad es un condicionante socioeconómico y espacial que limita el acceso a los bienes, servicios, actividades y oportunidades ofrecidas por las ciudades, tanto a mujeres como a varones, su percepción y experiencia son dos dimensiones de la inseguridad que tienen un efecto diferente sobre las mujeres. A partir de una exploración sobre las diferencias en la percepción de inseguridad y en la efectiva victimización de usuarias y usuarios del transporte público en el Área Metropolitana de Buenos Aires (amba), se indaga en las estrategias de movilidad cotidiana de las mujeres vinculadas con la inseguridad como problema en el transporte público. Se presenta evidencia —basada en información primariacualicuantitativa y relevada en el marco del estudio comparativo latinoamericano “Ella se mueve segura”— sobre el desempeño de la inseguridad como condicionante de género, y sobre una forma de violencia —el acoso— que afecta especialmente a las mujeres. Con esto se quiere aportar a desnaturalizar comportamientos cotidianos que colaboran en sostener desigualdades en el espacio urbano y en el transporte, y por su intermedio, en el derecho a la ciudad.
FORMAÇÃO DO ÍNDICE DE MODERNIZAÇÃO DA FRONTEIRA AGRÍCOLA - OESTE DA BAHIA / FORMATION OF THE AGRICULTURAL MODERNIZATION INDEX OF AGRICULTURAL FRONTIER - WESTERN BAHIA
Authors: Santos Crisliane Aparecida Pereira dos , Sano Edson Eyji , Santos Pablo Santana
Published: July 2018

A ocupação do Cerrado no Oeste da Bahia, a partir da década de 1970, e o processo da modernização agropecuária são responsáveis pela formação e expansão da fronteira agrícola. Este artigo tem como objetivo construir um índice de modernização agropecuária por meio de um conjunto de variáveis, provenientes de dados censitários, que expliquem o processo de modernização da fronteira agrícola no Oeste da Bahia. A pesquisa foi baseada nos dados censitários de 1970 a 2006 e submetidos à análise fatorial para a construção do índice de modernização agropecuária. Os dados mostraram que, em todos os anos analisados, o principal IMA para o Oeste da Bahia foi o F1, cujos valores mostraram-se superiores a 40% das variáveis. Assim como, a ocupação do espaço per si não se resume em nível de modernização, mas sim pelo uso contínuo de investimento e padrão tecnológico, o que explica uma falta de uniformidade no grau de modernização entre as distintas microrregiões, como também entre os municípios de cada microrregião.
PRODUÇÃO E (RE)ORGANIZAÇÃO DO ESPAÇO NA FESTA DE NOSSA SENHORA DA CONCEIÇÃO, RECIFE – PE / PRODUCTION AND (RE)ORGANIZATION OF THE SPACE AT NOSSA SENHORA DA CONCEIÇÃO FESTIVAL, RECIFE – PE
Authors: Oliveira Pedroso Ana Caroline , Teixeira Rosa Wedmo
Published: July 2018

O principal objetivo deste trabalho é analisar a dimensão espacial do sagrado no contexto da cidade do Recife – PE, durante a Festa de Nossa Senhora Conceição, além de compreender o papel que essa festa religiosa exerce sobre a produção e (re)organização do espaço no Morro da Conceição a partir da relação sagrado/profano. É importante salientar que as festas religiosas são manifestações culturais que têm valor significativo para alguns grupos sociais e imprime, ainda, ao local onde elas ocorrem, uma dinâmica diferente dos dias comuns, reconfigurando o espaço a partir do sagrado. Para desenvolvimento desta investigação adotou-se os seguintes procedimentos metodológicos: levantamento bibliográfico; observação in loco; aplicação de formulários de perguntas com devotos e visitantes; e entrevistas semiestruturadas com organizadores da festa e moradores do Morro da Conceição. Posteriormente, buscou-se inter-relacionar os dados e informações coletadas para realização das análises e discussão visando atingir os objetivos propostos. Em meio a dinâmica espacial do sagrado impressa durante a festa, foi possível identificar os espaços sagrados, os espaços profanos direta e indiretamente vinculados ao sagrado e os espaços híbridos, além de compreender alguns significados atribuídos à festa e aos diferentes espaços que fazem parte do roteiro devocional dos participantes desse evento religioso.
Thy 3F and 3a malignancy rate, a multisite regional retrospective case series
Authors: Alexander V , Rudd J , Walker D , Wong G , Lunt A , Hamakarim Z , Bell S , Balfour A , Davis J , Pitkin L , Pelser A
Published: July 2018

Introduction

The aim of this study was to ascertain the incidence of thyroid cancer for patients categorised as Thy3, 3a or 3f across four tertiary thyroid multidisciplinary centres in the UK.

Material and methods

This is a retrospective case series examining patients who presented with a thyroid nodule and diagnosed as Thy3, 3a or 3f according to the Royal College of Pathologists modified British Thyroid Association and Royal College of Physicians Thy system.

Results

In total, 395 patients were included in this study. Of these, 136 turned out to have benign thyroid disease and 24 had micropapillary thyroid carcinomas. The overall rate of thyroid malignancy was 28.8%. For each subcategory, the rate of malignancy was Thy3 24.7.7%, Thy3a 30.4% and Thy3f 29.2. However, the incidence of thyroid malignancy varied considerably between the four centres (Thy 3f 18-54%).

Discussion

The diagnosis of thyroid cancer is evolving but detection for malignancy for indeterminate nodules remains below 50% for most centres around the world. In 2014, the British Thyroid Association subdivided the original Thy3 category into Thy3a and Thy3f and recommended a more conservative approach to management for Thy3a nodules. Despite this, only two centres yielded a higher conversion rate of malignancy in the new higher graded Thy3f group compared with Thy3a.

Conclusion

It is debateable whether the new ‘Thy3’ subcategories are more useful than the original. Local thyroid malignancy rates may also be more useful than national averages to inform treatment decisions.
Evaluation of Lineage Changes in the Gastric Mucosa Following Infection With Helicobacter pylori and Specified Intestinal Flora in INS-GAS Mice
Authors: Pinzon-Guzman Carolina , Meyer Anne R. , Wise Rachel , Choi Eunyoung , Muthupalani Sureshkumar , Wang Timothy C. , Fox James G. , Goldenring James R.
Published: July 2018

Gastric adenocarcinoma develops in metaplastic mucosa associated with Helicobacter pylori infection in the stomach. We have sought to evaluate the precise lineage changes in the stomachs of insulin-gastrin (INS-GAS) mice infected with H. pylori and/or intestinal flora (Altered Schaedler’s Flora; ASF). Stomachs from groups infected with H. pylori contained progressive spasmolytic polypeptide-expressing metaplasia (SPEM) compared with germ-free and mice infected with ASF alone. The overall phenotype of the H. pylori-infected mice was dominated by Ulex europaeus lectin (UEAI)-positive foveolar hyperplasia that was distinct from GSII/CD44v9-positive SPEM. However, in the mice with H. pylori co-infected with ASF, we identified a subpopulation of UEAI-positive foveolar cells that co-expressed intestinal mucin 4 (MUC4). These regions of foveolar cells were variably positive for CD44v9 as well as TFF3. Interestingly, an intravascular lesion identified in a dual H. pylori/ASF-infected mouse expressed both UEAI and Muc4. Finally, we identified an increase in the number of tuft cells within the mucosa of H. pylori-infected groups. Our findings suggest that H. pylori infection promotes foveolar hyperplasia as well as metaplasia, while co-infection may promote progressive foveolar and metaplastic lesions as well as dysplasia. Grading of gastric lesions in mice as preneoplastic requires multiple immunostaining markers to assign lineage derivation and behavior.
Agitation Modules: Flexible Means to Accelerate Automated Freeze Substitution
Authors: Reipert Siegfried , Goldammer Helmuth , Richardson Christine , Goldberg Martin W. , Hawkins Timothy J. , Hollergschwandtner Elena , Kaufmann Walter A. , Antreich Sebastian , Stierhof York-Dieter
Published: July 2018

For ultrafast fixation of biological samples to avoid artifacts, high-pressure freezing (HPF) followed by freeze substitution (FS) is preferred over chemical fixation at room temperature. After HPF, samples are maintained at low temperature during dehydration and fixation, while avoiding damaging recrystallization. This is a notoriously slow process. McDonald and Webb demonstrated, in 2011, that sample agitation during FS dramatically reduces the necessary time. Then, in 2015, we (H.G. and S.R.) introduced an agitation module into the cryochamber of an automated FS unit and demonstrated that the preparation of algae could be shortened from days to a couple of hours. We argued that variability in the processing, reproducibility, and safety issues are better addressed using automated FS units. For dissemination, we started low-cost manufacturing of agitation modules for two of the most widely used FS units, the Automatic Freeze Substitution Systems, AFS(1) and AFS2, from Leica Microsystems, using three dimensional (3D)-printing of the major components. To test them, several labs independently used the modules on a wide variety of specimens that had previously been processed by manual agitation, or without agitation. We demonstrate that automated processing with sample agitation saves time, increases flexibility with respect to sample requirements and protocols, and produces data of at least as good quality as other approaches.
Between regulation mechanisms and professional essentials: Exploring current challenges in architectural education
Authors: Stang Våland Marianne , Møller Camilla Hedegaard
Published: July 2018

As new technologies and organizational arrangements establish in the market for building design, these developments represent important changes – for design practitioners as well as for the institutions responsible for the education of designers. We explore the tension between current mechanisms that aim to regulate the production of architects and architecture, and the fundamental tenets that characterize the profession. Providing data from a Danish school of architecture based on the Beaux-Art tradition, we use actor-network theory as a lens to explore how these mechanisms produce requirements that challenge the traditional understanding of knowledge and methodology in architectural training. While architects are reliant on their ability to act according to market conditions, they are concurrently obliged to work according to the essential tenets of their discipline. The article offers empirical illustrations and considerations of this dilemma facing the profession of architects and their practices, which is provisionally discussed in the light of a contemporary educational initiative.
El concepto del yo en la metafísica moderna del siglo XVII:Campanella y Descartes
Authors: Ponzio Paolo
Published: July 2018

El concepto del yo en la metafísica moderna del siglo XVII: de la autoconciencia de Tommaso Campanella al Cogito cartesiano. Estas son las coordenadas entre las que es posible indagar el concepto del yo en la edad moderna. El presente artículo, por tanto, intenta analizar las opciones filosóficas de estos dos autores capitales en la formación de la filosofía moderna, para poder preguntarse, finalmente: cuál es el precio que pagamos a la modernidad? La presunta afirmación “solipsista” de la subjetividad induce a que la realidad pierda interés; más aún, a que se pierda la realidad misma produciendo —como decía Hannah Arendt en Vida activa, citando a Whitehead- “el efecto del retraerse del sentido común”.
Michel Foucault: Sujeto e historia
Authors: Castro Edgardo
Published: July 2018

Este artículo describe la evolución del tema del sujeto en la obra de Michel Foucault. Más precisamente, desarrolla la relación entre sujeto e historia desde sus primeros trabajos, dedicados a la historia de la psicología y de la locura, hasta sus cursos consagrados a la biopolítica.
Fingerroot (Boesenbergia pandurata) : A Prospective Anticancer Therapy
Authors: Yonna Marsya , Fadliyah Hilyatul , Meiyanto Edy
Published: July 2018

Beside as a spice in Indonesian cooking, Fingerroot (Boesenbergia pandurata) regularly is used as a mixture of herbal medicine. Scientifically, the phytochemical content of the fingerroot rhizome showed some therapeutical effects such as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti or pro-oxidant, and also anticancer. In this article, we summarize some studies especially about anticancer activity of fingerroot and its constituent coumpound. We found that fingerroot is capable of inhibiting various pathways of cell physiology processes. One potential pathway to be inhibited by fingerroot is Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) which has role in apoptotic induction. In the future, it is necessary to purify the extract to obtain maximum efficacy and also formulation studies of fingerroot will be interesting to do to.
The Denominations of Metaphysics and its Science in the Late Antique Philosophy
Authors: Napoli Valerio
Published: July 2018

In late antiquity, in the context of the jagged tradition of Neo-Platonism,Aristotle’s Metaphysics and the specific science that is traced out in itare indicated with the current denominations of meta ta physika andtheologikē pragmateia, which are seen as consistent with one anotherand closely interconnected. In this connection, the Metaphysics, in thewake of previous philosophical readings, is considered as a treatise on“theological science” — the most elevated among the sciences — and thedenomination meta ta physika is seen in a specifically theological sense.According to a widespread Neo-Platonic reading, the science thematizedin the Metaphysics is “metaphysics” in that it is theological science,an epistemic discourse on divine realities, which, within the ordo rerum,transcend the physical ones, and, therefore, according to the ordo cognoscendi,must be studied after the latter.
Michael of Ephesus. A Commentator of Aristotle and a Thinker
Authors: Arabatzis Georges
Published: July 2018

The article examines the state of research on Michael of Ephesus as a probable author of the Commentaries on Metaphysics E–N, mainly the works of Leonardo Tarán and Concetta Luna. In spite of their opposed views (Tarán rejects Michael’s authorship of the commentaries, while Luna supports it), they both agree on the mediocrity of the Byzantine author. The article questions the criteria for this negative appraisal and offers some material for reconsidering Michael of Ephesus’ idea of philo­sophical culture.
The use of language learning strategies in a second and third language: The case of foreign language majors
Authors: Pawlak Mirosław , Kiermasz Zuzanna
Published: July 2018

Although multilingualism has become a fact of life in the last few decades, this phenomenon has largely failed to find a reflection in research on language learning strategies. Even when scholars have addressed this issue, it has mostly been done with the purpose of proving the advantage of multilingualism over bilingualism, and scant attention has been given to how the nature, utility or status of a particular additional language can impact the frequency and patterns of strategy use. The present paper seeks to partially fill this gap by investigating the employment of strategies by 107 Polish university students majoring in English and, at the same time, being required to reach a high level of proficiency in another additional language. The data were collected by means of the Strategy Inventory for Language Learning (Oxford, 1990) and interviews conducted with selected participants. A combination of quantitative and qualitative analysis demonstrated that strategy use in the second language was higher than in the third language, both overall and with respect to specific groups of strategies, mostly traditional and memory strategies were deployed, and the outcomes could be attributed to the proficiency level in both languages and varied motivation to master these languages.
Past its expiry date? The SILL in modern mixed-methods strategy research
Authors: Amerstorfer Carmen M.
Published: July 2018

Has the Strategy Inventory for Language Learning (SILL) passed its expiry date? The SILL (Oxford, 1990) was designed as a self-evaluation tool to measure the frequency of language learning strategies used by foreign and second language (L2) learners. With simple mathematics, learners can analyze their strategy preferences overall and in six categories (i.e., memory, cognitive, compensation, metacognitive, affective, and social strategies). Diverging from its original purpose, the SILL became the most popular instrument in LLS research, which brought widespread acclaim but also criticism. This article explains what makes the SILL an extraordinary tool for learners, teachers, and researchers and how it can be adapted to suit specific contexts and the demands of a modern world. An example of how the SILL can be integrated into mixed-methods research demonstrates how the instrument can fulfil additional purposes to those originally intended. Despite its naturally quantitative orientation, the SILL contributed to the acquisition of rich qualitative information, which enabled a holistic view of five individual L2 learners. In addition to new insights about strategic L2 learning, the study attests that the SILL has not expired yet, but perhaps needs a modern touch, for instance, in the form of adaptation or combination with other research methods and the inclusion of strategies for learning language with technology.
Researching pronunciation learning strategies: An overview and a critical look
Authors: Pawlak Mirosław , Szyszka Magdalena
Published: July 2018

Disparate goals that learners might have in learning second or foreign language pronunciation and the scant classroom time that can be dedicated to teaching this target language subsystem dictate that learner autonomy is of vital importance in this case and adept use of pronunciation learning strategies (PLS) can be viewed as key to the development of this attribute. Surprisingly, research on these strategies is scarce, mainly focusing on the identification and classification of PLS, diverse instruments are used for data collection and the findings are inconclusive. The paper provides an overview of the available research on PLS with respect to their identification, learners’ preferences concerning their use, factors mediating the application of PLS, and the effects of strategies-based instruction in this area. An attempt is also made to assess research of this kind and to suggest how it could be taken forward to provide insights that would be of value to practitioners.
Merchantability and assortment structure of pine stands affected by root rot in the Volyn Polissya region, Ukraine
Authors: Musienko Sergiy , Luk’yanets Volodymyr , Tarnopylska Oksana , Kobets Oleksii , Babenko Vira
Published: July 2018

The study was conducted in the forests of the State Enterprise “Gorodotske Forest Economy”, located in the Manevytsko-Volodymyretsky region of the Volyn Polissya in Ukraine. The annosum root rot (Heterobasidion annosum (Fr.) Bref.) impact on timber merchantability was investigated. The comparison of the cost estimation of stands assortment structure was carried out on the basis of the market value at current selling prices of the State Enterprise “Gorodotske Forest Economy” of the Volyn Regional Department of Forestry and Hunting as of 2017, taking into account the quality and the average length of the assortments. We present a comparative analysis of productivity, merchantability and assortment structure and financial value of timber volume by various assortments of pine and birch stands of the Volyn Polissya region affected by annosum root rot. We found that in the pine plantations, the overall productivity and the value of merchantable wood was higher by 42% in the control sites (areas between the fungal disease centers) as compared with those in the root rot disease centers. In the middle-aged birch-pine stands, the value of merchantable wood was higher than that in pine plantations of 34 the comparable age: by 9% in the disease centers and by 8% in control sites.
Trying to underline geotourist profile of National park visitors: Case study of NP Fruška Gora, Serbia (Typology of potential geotourists at NP Fruška Gora)
Authors: Vasiljević Đorđije A. , Vujičić Miroslav D. , Božić Sanja , Jovanović Tamara , Marković Slobodan B. , Basarin Biljana , Lukić Tin , Čarkadžić Jana
Published: July 2018

Geotourists, as visitors with a specific preference for geoheritage and attractive geodiversity, have been identified and typified by many authors worldwide. Considering that Serbia is recognized as an area of geotourism in its initiation phase, this type of research has not been conducted thus far. In spite of global trends, geotourism as a special interest form of travel does not exist in this region, and is principally related to speleotourism and pure admiration of aesthetic values of geodiversity. As one of the first studies of geotourism of such character in Serbia, the research presented within was conducted to reveal whether there is a certain level of interest for geoheritage amongst the general public. The questionnaire was conducted in 2015 on the territory of Vojvodina Province (North Serbia), counting a total of 198 respondents. Bearing in mind the lack of geotourism terminology within the study area, the general public is not familiar with the existence, attractiveness and even degradation of geodiversity. Hence, questions aimed to discover respondents’ habits and tendencies during travel, their attitude in everyday life, particularly towards nature (including the abiotic component). Last of all, the goal of the presented study is also to reveal whether there are certain types of potential geoheritage lovers - geotourists depending on their social-demographic characteristics. With specific profiles identified, results could be later used for geotourism planning, education, promotion and management in the Vojvodina region and wider.
Fluid-rock interaction and dissolution of feldspar in the Upper Triassic Xujiahe tight sandstone, western Sichuan Basin, China
Authors: Liu Sibing , Chen Anqing , Shen Zhongmin , Lv Zhengxiang , Zhang Xiaoxing
Published: July 2018

Secondary porosity in the Upper Triassic Xujiahe tight sandstone of the western Sichuan Basin is mainly the product of feldspar dissolution. In the Xu-4 Member, the upper reservoir of the Xujiahe Formation, feldspars are dissolved to a significant extent and observations indicate that nearly all feldspars have been dissolved completely, with only 1.73% content of feldspar remaining. In the Xu-2 Member, the lower reservoir, feldspars are well preserved; the current content of feldspar is 12.54% on average, and the secondary porosity derived from feldspar dissolution is less than 1%. Kaolinite occurs almost exclusively in the Xu-4, but it is nearly absent in the Xu-2. The K+ content in the Xu-2 is 3.3 times higher than that in Xu-4. The K+/H+ ratio in the Xu-2 is also higher than that in the Xu-4. These differences between the two reservoirs can be attributed to their distinguishing fluid-rock systems. The low K+ content and relatively high δ18O in the Xu-4 formation water are the result of intensive fluid-rock interaction in an open fluid-rock system. The upper Xu-4 is close to the overlying coal-measures of the Xu-5 from which organic acid flowed into the Xu-4. Meanwhile, K+ contained in sandstone migrated out to the mudstones. The resulting low K+/H+ ratio in the formation water of the Xu-4 was responsible for almost all the feldspar dissolution and kaolinite formation. In contrast, due to the relatively closed fluid-rock system in the Xu-2, K+ did not migrate into adjacent rocks and acidic fluids did not invade, which led to K+-rich formation waters maintaining a high K+/H+ ratio. Hence, K-feldspar was well preserved and kaolinite was completely transformed into illite. Therefore, in contrast to the Xu-2 tight sandstone, the Xu-4 sandstone has relatively higher secondary porosity, which favours the formation of better quality reservoirs.
Five decades of research on mitochondrial NADH-quinone oxidoreductase (complex I)
Authors: Ohnishi Tomoko , Ohnishi S. Tsuyoshi , Salerno John C.
Published: July 2018

NADH-quinone oxidoreductase (complex I) is the largest and most complicated enzyme complex of the mitochondrial respiratory chain. It is the entry site into the respiratory chain for most of the reducing equivalents generated during metabolism, coupling electron transfer from NADH to quinone to proton translocation, which in turn drives ATP synthesis. Dysfunction of complex I is associated with neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, and it is proposed to be involved in aging. Complex I has one non-covalently bound FMN, eight to 10 iron-sulfur clusters, and protein-associated quinone molecules as electron transport components. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) has previously been the most informative technique, especially in membrane in situ analysis. The structure of complex 1 has now been resolved from a number of species, but the mechanisms by which electron transfer is coupled to transmembrane proton pumping remains unresolved. Ubiquinone-10, the terminal electron acceptor of complex I, is detectable by EPR in its one electron reduced, semiquinone (SQ) state. In the aerobic steady state of respiration the semi-ubiquinone anion has been observed and studied in detail. Two distinct protein-associated fast and slow relaxing, SQ signals have been resolved which were designated SQNf and SQNs. This review covers a five decade personal journey through the field leading to a focus on the unresolved questions of the role of the SQ radicals and their possible part in proton pumping.
Surveying languages: the art of governing speakers with numbers
Authors: Duchêne Alexandre , Humbert Philippe N.
Published: July 2018

In this article, we propose a historical, political, and critical framework that situates language surveys and censuses as an object of sociolinguistic inquiry. First, we provide a brief history of the production of language statistics that aims to understand why authoritative bodies “need” language statistics, and what political agendas they help fulfil. Second, we highlight the epistemological and methodological challenges that emerge from the creation of language statistics. Third, we focus on the socio-political consequences of language statistics in society, including a focus on the actors and institutions that use or contest numbers in various contexts, and how language statistics impact the (un)equal distribution of resources. We argue that censuses and surveys are always embedded in political projects and constitute a complex combination of scientific and socio-political arguments that shape the way language and speakers are conceived of. As such, we emphasize the importance of recognizing censuses and surveys as a site for sociolinguistic inquiry, while anchoring our understanding of this instrument’s inner workings within the particularities of the historical and political conditions in which they emerge.
“In the mouth of an aborigine”: language ideologies and logics of racialization in the Linguistic Survey of India
Authors: Carlan Hannah
Published: July 2018

TheLinguistic Survey of India(LSI), edited and compiled by George Abraham Grierson, was the first systematic effort by the British colonial government to document the spoken languages and dialects of India. While Grierson advocated an approach to philology that dismissed the affinity of language to race, theLSImobilizes a complex, intertextual set of racializing discourses that form the ideological ground upon which representations of language were constructed and naturalized. I analyze a sub-set of theLSI’s volumes in order to demonstrate how Grierson’s linguistic descriptions and categorizations racialize minority languages and their speakers as corrupt, impure, and uncivilized. I highlight how semiotic processes in the text construct speakers as possessing essential “ethnic” characteristics that are seen as indexical of naturalized linguistic differences. I argue that metapragmatic statements within descriptions of languages and dialects are made possible by ethnological discourses that ultimately reinforce an indexical relationship between language and race. This analysis of the survey sheds light on the centrality of language in colonial constructions of social difference in India, as well as the continued importance of language as a tool for legitimating claims for political recognition in postcolonial India.
Computed tomography donor liver volumetry before liver transplantation in infants ≤10 kg: does the estimated graft diameter affect the outcome?
Authors: Schukfeh Nagoud , Schulze Maren , Holland Anna Charlotte , Dingemann Jens , Hoyer Dieter P. , Paul Andreas , Theysohn Jens M.
Published: July 2018

Aim of the study

Living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) is regularly performed in small-sized infants. Computed tomography (CT)-based donor liver volumetry is used to estimate the graft size. The aim of our study was to assess the results of CT liver volumetry and their impact on the clinical outcome after LDLT in extremely small-sized infants.

Patients and methods

In this study, we included all patients with a body weight of ≤10 kg who underwent living related liver transplantation at our centre between January 2004 and December 2014. In all cases of LDLT, a preoperative CT scan of the donor liver was performed, and the total liver and graft volumes were calculated. The graft shape was estimated by measuring the ventro-dorsal (thickness), cranio-caudal, and transversal (width) diameter of segment II/III. We assessed the impact of CT donor liver volumetry and other risk factors on the outcome, defined as patient and graft survival.

Results

In the study period, a total of 48 living related liver transplantations were performed at our centre in infants ≤10 kg [20 male (42%), 28 female (58%)]. The mean weight was 7.3 kg (range 4.4–10 kg). Among the recipients, 33 (69%) received primary abdominal closure and 15 (31%) had temporary abdominal closure. The patient and graft survival rates were 85% and 81%, respectively. In CT volumetry, the mean estimated graft volume was 255 mL (range 140–485 mL) and the actual measured mean graft weight was 307 g (range 127–463 g). The mean ventro-dorsal diameter of segment II/III was 6.9 cm (range 4.3–11.2 cm), the mean cranio-caudal diameter was 9 cm (range 5–14 cm), and the mean width was 10.5 cm (range 6–14.7 cm). The mean graft-body weight ratio (GBWR) was 4.38% (range 1.41–8.04%). A high graft weight, a GBWR >4%, and a large ventro-dorsal diameter of segment II/III were risk factors for poorer patient survival.

Conclusion

Preoperative assessment of the graft size is a crucial investigation before LDLT. For extremely small-sized recipients, not only the graft weight but also the graft shape seems to affect the outcome.
The E-Patient
Authors: Kovachev Ljubomir S. , Tonchev Pencho T. , Nedialkov Kiril L.
Published: July 2018

Advanced information technologies have entered all spheres of human activities. In healthcare, this happens much too fast and encompasses all its branches. How does the Internet form the relationship between patients and medical staff? What information do patients seek and how do they get it? What problems arise during the communication process via new means? How can we describe an e-patient? How does the Internet model the doctor-patient relationship in case of cancer, one of the most dramatic diseases? Are students prepared to face an e-patient and how are they trained to do it? What is to be done to optimize internet communication between patients and health providers? This review analyzes information on these issues and outlines some opportunities for solving problems arising against the background of IT use in health care.
Work Ability of Machinery Manufacturing Employees
Authors: Sandeva Gergana N. , Deliradeva Rositsa P. , Gidikova Pavlina L.
Published: July 2018

Assessment of work ability is an important aspect of occupational medical services, the main goal being to maintain employees’ health, well-being and efficiency. The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the work ability of workers employed by two machinery factories. We used the Work Ability Index (WAI) questionnaire to assess 165 workers of an iron casting factory A and 166 workers in a press-forging plant B. The data obtained were evaluated and compared based on gender, age, length of service and occupation. Mean WAI for the two factories were almost identical (43.3±4.9 for Factory A and 43.3±4.6 for Factory B), both indicating good overall work ability. The lowest mean WAI (37.7) was registered for the crane operators from Factory B, and the highest (47.2) - for the molders in Factory A. The female production workers in Factory A had a significantly lower WAI as compared to their male counterparts (p=0.001). WAI also varied significantly between different age groups and occupations in the two plants. Significant negative correlations were found between work ability and length of service, as well as between psychological resources and gender (Factory A) and the length of service (Factory B). WAI is a useful tool in finding vulnerable workers who need more attention from occupational health specialists.