bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Confidence in the curve: Establishing instantaneous cost mapping techniques using bilateral ankle exoskeletons
Authors: Koller Jeffrey R. , Gates Deanna H. , Ferris Daniel P. , Remy C. David
Published: November 2016

Lower extremity robotic prostheses and exoskeletons can require tuning a large number of control parameters on a subject-specific basis to reduce users’ metabolic power during locomotion. We refer to the functional relationship between control parameter configurations and users’ metabolic power as the metabolic cost landscape. Standard practice for estimating a metabolic cost landscape, and thus identifying optimal parameter configurations, is to vary control parameters while measuring steady-state metabolic power during walking. This approach is time consuming, tedious, and inefficient. We have developed an instantaneous cost mapping analysis that allows for an estimate of the metabolic cost landscape without the explicit need for steady-state measurements. Here we present novel methods to quantify the confidence in an estimated metabolic cost landscape, allowing for an objective subject-specific comparison of protocols regardless of which metabolic analysis is used. We validated these techniques by estimating metabolic cost landscapes for healthy subjects walking with bilateral robotic ankle exoskeletons using a standard practice protocol and two innovative protocols that use an instantaneous cost mapping analysis. All cost landscapes were a function of the devices’ actuation timing. Results showed that for this device a protocol using an instantaneous cost mapping analysis could accurately identify optimal parameter configurations in 20 min, where the standard practice protocol required 42 min. Additionally, using an instantaneous cost mapping analysis with the standard practice’s parameter exploration significantly improved fit confidence. These methods could greatly improve real-time optimization of robotic assistive devices or studies focused on biomechanical manipulations of locomotion.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We are presenting novel subject-specific metabolic cost landscape confidence analyses. These confidence analyses can greatly improve experimental design, intersubject analysis, and the comparison of landscape mapping protocols. We validated these methods by mapping subject-specific metabolic cost landscapes using bilateral ankle exoskeletons and are presenting the first full study using instantaneous cost mapping techniques to optimally tune an assistive robotic device.
The effect of obesity on the contractile performance of isolated mouse soleus, EDL, and diaphragm muscles
Authors: Tallis Jason , Hill Cameron , James Rob S. , Cox Val M. , Seebacher Frank
Published: November 2016

Obesity affects the major metabolic and cellular processes involved in skeletal muscle contractility. Surprisingly, the effect of obesity on isolated skeletal muscle performance remains unresolved. The present study is the first to examine the muscle-specific changes in contractility following dietary-induced obesity using an isolated muscle work-loop (WL) model that more closely represents in vivo muscle performance. Following 16-wk high-calorific feeding, soleus (SOL), extensor digitorum longus (EDL), and diaphragm (DIA) were isolated from female (CD-1) mice, and contractile performance was compared against a lean control group. Obese SOL produced greater isometric force; however, isometric stress (force per unit muscle area), absolute WL power, and normalized WL power (watts per kilogram muscle mass) were unaffected. Maximal isometric force and absolute WL power of the EDL were similar between groups. For both EDL and DIA, isometric stress and normalized WL power were reduced in the obese groups. Obesity caused a significant reduction in fatigue resistance in all cases. Our findings demonstrate a muscle-specific reduction in contractile performance and muscle quality that is likely related to in vivo mechanical role, fiber type, and metabolic profile, which may in part be related to changes in myosin heavy chain expression and AMP-activated protein kinase activity. These results infer that, beyond the additional requirement of moving a larger body mass, functional performance and quality of life may be further limited by poor muscle function in obese individuals. As such, a reduction in muscle performance may be a substantial contributor to the negative cycle of obesity.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The effect of obesity on isolated muscle function is surprisingly underresearched. The present study is the first to examine the effects of obesity on isolated muscle performance using a method that more closely represents real-world muscle function. This work uniquely establishes a muscle-specific profile of mechanical changes in relation to underpinning mechanisms. These findings may be important to understanding the negative cycle of obesity and in designing interventions for improving weight status.
Nondestructive cryomicro-CT imaging enables structural and molecular analysis of human lung tissue
Authors: Vasilescu Dragoş M. , Phillion André B. , Tanabe Naoya , Kinose Daisuke , Paige David F. , Kantrowitz Jacob J. , Liu Gang , Liu Hanqiao , Fishbane Nick , Verleden Stijn E. , Vanaudenaerde Bart M. , Lenburg Marc , Stevenson Christopher S. , Spira Avrum , Cooper Joel D. , Hackett Tillie-Louise , Hogg James C.
Published: November 2016

Micro-computed tomography (CT) enables three-dimensional (3D) imaging of complex soft tissue structures, but current protocols used to achieve this goal preclude cellular and molecular phenotyping of the tissue. Here we describe a radiolucent cryostage that permits micro-CT imaging of unfixed frozen human lung samples at an isotropic voxel size of (11 µm)3 under conditions where the sample is maintained frozen at −30°C during imaging. The cryostage was tested for thermal stability to maintain samples frozen up to 8 h. This report describes the methods used to choose the materials required for cryostage construction and demonstrates that whole genome mRNA integrity and expression are not compromised by exposure to micro-CT radiation and that the tissue can be used for immunohistochemistry. The new cryostage provides a novel method enabling integration of 3D tissue structure with cellular and molecular analysis to facilitate the identification of molecular determinants of disease.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The described micro-CT cryostage provides a novel way to study the three-dimensional lung structure preserved without the effects of fixatives while enabling subsequent studies of the cellular matrix composition and gene expression. This approach will, for the first time, enable researchers to study structural changes of lung tissues that occur with disease and correlate them with changes in gene or protein signatures.
Disparities in Kidney Transplantation Access among Korean Patients Initiating Dialysis: A Population-Based Cohort Study Using National Health Insurance Data (2003-2013)
Authors: Choi Young , Shin Jaeyong , Park Jung Tak , Cho Kyoung Hee , Park Eun-Cheol , Kim Tae Hyun
Published: November 2016

Background: The socioeconomic status of a person has an impact on his or her access to kidney transplantation as has been reported in western countries. This study examined the association between income level and kidney transplantation among chronic kidney disease patients undergoing dialysis in South Korea. Methods: We analyzed data from 1,792 chronic kidney disease patients undergoing dialysis and listed in the Korean National Health Insurance Claim Database (2003-2013). The likelihood of receiving the first kidney transplant over time was analyzed using competing risk proportional hazard models on time from initiating dialysis to receiving a transplant. Results: Of 1,792 patients on dialysis, only 184 patients (10.3%) received kidney transplants. Patients with medical aid had the lowest kidney transplantation rate (hazard ratio 0.29, 95% CI 0.16-0.51). A lower income level was significantly associated with a low kidney transplantation rate, after adjusting for covariates, compared to patients in the high-income level group. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that in South Korea, the total number of kidney transplants is remarkably low and there exists income disparity with regard to access to kidney transplantation. Thus, we suggest that plans be implemented to encourage organ donation and increase organ transplant accessibility for all patients irrespective of their socioeconomic status.
The Long Non-Coding RNA LncRNA8975-1 is Upregulated in Hypertrophic Scar Fibroblasts and Controls Collagen Expression
Authors: Li Jun , Chen Ling , Cao Chunyu , Yan Hui , Zhou Bei , Gao Yanli , Li Qian , Li Jingyun
Published: November 2016

Background/Aims: Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are thought to play crucial roles in human diseases. However, the function of lncRNAs in hypertrophic scar formation remains poorly understood. Methods: In this study, we investigated the expression of lncRNA8975-1 in hypertrophic scar tissues and fibroblasts by quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR). To investigate its function, overexpression and knockdown of lncRNA8975-1 were performed using lentivirus infection and Stealth RNAi transfection, respectively. Cell proliferation was detected by CCK-8 assay. The protein levels of collagens and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were analysed by western blot. Results: We found that lncRNA8975-1 was overexpressed in hypertrophic scar tissues and dermal fibroblasts. Overexpression of lncRNA8975-1 inhibited cell proliferation and reduced the protein expression levels of COL1A2, COL1A1, COL3A1 and α-SMA in hypertrophic scar fibroblasts, whereas knockdown of lncRNA8975-1 had the opposite effect. Conclusion: Our results show that the long non-coding RNA lncRNA8975-1 is upregulated in hypertrophic scar fibroblasts; furthermore, it inhibits fibroblast proliferation and reduces collagen and α-SMA expression. Further studies on the mechanisms regulated by lncRNA8975-1 would lead to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of hypertrophic scar formation.
Proteomic Analysis and Identification of Paracrine Factors in Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Conditioned Media under Hypoxia
Authors: Song Suk-Won , Kim Kyung-Eun , Choi Jung-Won , Lee Chang Youn , Lee Jiyun , Seo Hyang-Hee , Lim Kyu Hee , Lim Soyeon , Lee Seahyong , Kim Sang Woo , Hwang Ki-Chul
Published: November 2016

Background/Aims: We previously showed that a hypoxic environment modulates the antiarrhythmic potential of mesenchymal stem cells. Methods: To investigate the mechanism by which secreted proteins contribute to the pathogenesis of antiarrhythmic potential in mesenchymal stem cells, we used two-dimensional electrophoresis combined with MALDI-TOF-MS to perform a proteomic analysis to compare the paracrine media produced by normoxic and hypoxic cells. Results: The proteomic analysis revealed that 66 protein spots out of a total of 231 matched spots indicated differential expression between the normoxic and hypoxic conditioned media of mesenchymal stem cells. Interestingly, two tropomyosin isoforms were dramatically increased in the hypoxic conditioned medium of mesenchymal stem cells. An increase in tropomyosin was confirmed using Western blot to analyze the conditioned media between normoxic and hypoxic cells. In a network analysis based on gene ontology (GO) Molecular Function by GeneMANIA analysis, most of the identified proteins were found to be involved in the regulation of heart processes. Conclusion: Our results show that hypoxia up-regulates tropomyosin and other secreted proteins which suggests that tropomyosin may be involved in regulating proarrhythmic and antiarrhythmic functions.
Liver Transplantation in Wilson's Disease with Neurological Impairment: Evaluation in 4 Patients
Authors: Laurencin Chloé , Brunet Anne Sophie , Dumortier Jérôme , Lion-Francois Laurence , Thobois Stéphane , Mabrut Jean Yves , Dubois Rémi , Woimant France , Poujois Aurélia , Guillaud Olivier , Lachaux Alain , Broussolle Emmanuel
Published: November 2016

Background: The aim of this work is to report our early experiences about the benefits of liver transplantation (LT) in the treatment of persistent neurological symptoms in Wilson's disease (WD) patients. Methods: We describe our findings in 4 WD patients with neurological impairment or symptoms treated by LT: 2 patients had transplants due to worsening of neurological symptoms despite long-term appropriate medical treatment. The other 2 required LT because of symptoms associated with liver failure. Patients were evaluated using the modified Rankin scale and the Unified Wilson's Disease Rating Scale (UWDRS). Results: The 4 patients experienced neurological improvement after LT. The pre-LT Rankin score of the 2 patients transplanted due to neurological impairment was 4 compared to 3 and 2, respectively, post LT. The pre-LT Rankin scores of the 2 WD cases transplanted because of hepatic failure were 1 and 2, respectively, compared to 0 in both cases post LT. UWDRS score improved in 2 cases and remained stable in 1 less severely impaired case. Brain MRI abnormalities proved partially reversible in 3 patients and remained stable for 1 patient. Conclusions: These results suggest that LT could be envisaged for neurologically impaired WD patients.
Entzündungsbedingte Depression und assoziierte Risikofaktoren bei ambulanten Patienten
Authors: Peter Hannah L. , Hellhammer Dirk H.
Published: November 2016

Hintergrund: Verschiedene Studien deuten zunehmend darauf hin, dass Entzündungen ursächlich für psychische Krankheitssymptome bei therapieresistenten depressiven Patienten sein können. Das Risiko für eine entzündungsbedingte Depression scheint durch belastende Lebensereignisse während der frühen Entwicklungsphase des zentralen Nervensystems (ZNS) zu steigen. Da die meisten depressiven Patienten zunächst den Hausarzt aufsuchen, ist eine Früherkennung dieser Zusammenhänge hilfreich. Patienten und Methode: Explorative Analyse an 558 Patienten mit stressbezogenen Erkrankungen. Es wurde untersucht, ob sich depressive von nicht depressiven Patienten hinsichtlich der Häufigkeit entzündlicher Erkrankungen unterscheiden. Des Weiteren wurde die Bedeutsamkeit früher und aktueller Stressbelastung untersucht, und es wurde geprüft, ob depressive Patienten mit rezidivierenden Entzündungen charakteristische Merkmale aufweisen, die für eine Früherkennung nützlich sein können. Ergebnisse: Depressive Patienten zeigten anamnestisch häufiger rezidivierende Entzündungen und Infekte, sie berichteten häufiger über ein «Krankheitsgefühl» sowie über frühkindliche und aktuelle, chronische Stressbelastung. Patienten mit rezidivierenden Entzündungen schilderten ebenfalls häufiger eine frühe und chronische Stressbelastung. Depressive Patienten mit rezidivierenden Entzündungen unterschieden sich von depressiven Patienten ohne Entzündungen durch ein stärkeres Krankheitsgefühl, häufigere stressbezogene Infektionen und schlechtere Wundheilung. Schlussfolgerungen: Unsere Ergebnisse zeigen einen Zusammenhang zwischen einem erhöhten Entzündungsgeschehen, Depressionen und Stressbelastung. Wenn bei Patienten mit therapieresistenter Depression derartige Zusammenhänge erkennbar sind, kann diesem Verdacht nachgegangen und womöglich eine adäquate anti-entzündliche Therapie eingeleitet werden.
Urgent Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery in a Patient with Postinfarction Angina and Active Myelomonocytic Leukaemia
Authors: Galea Samuel Anthony , Galea Joseph
Published: November 2016

Chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia (CMML) is a myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasm affecting the production and differentiation of the monocyte cell lineage. Cardiac surgery in the context of CMML poses challenges that are not routinely encountered. This is the first reported case in the literature of a patient with active CMML undergoing urgent on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting. A 68-year-old Caucasian man with a history of hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, hypothyroidism, and hypercholesterolaemia, who had been diagnosed by the haematologists with CMML a few months earlier but had remained untreated, underwent urgent surgical coronary revascularisation because of postinfarction angina following a non-ST elevation myocardial infarction associated with troponin I rise. The patient had fulminant postoperative myelomonocytic leukaemoid reaction, with a clinical picture of severe systemic inflammatory response syndrome and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. This led to extensive vasodilation and heart failure that resulted in the death of the patient. Various authors have suggested different techniques and treatment options, each attempting to mitigate the effect of the postoperative inflammatory response. However, this is a high-risk endeavour with a myriad of inflammatory signals mobilised into action because of the surgical insult. Off-pump surgery or preoperative pharmacological attenuation of CMML activity might have dampened this response and resulted in a positive outcome for the patient.
Iliofemoral Venous Thrombosis Mainly Related to Iliofemoral Venous Obstruction by External Tumor Compression in Cancer Patients
Authors: Liao Tzu-Yao , Hsu Hui-Ching , Wen Min-Sheng , Juan Yu-Hsiang , Hung Yu-Hsin , Liaw Chuang-Chi
Published: November 2016

Background: To study iliofemoral venous thrombosis related to iliofemoral venous obstruction in cancer patients. Methods: In this case series study, 829 cancer patients were surveyed for iliofemoral obstruction/thrombosis within 10 years. The criteria for inclusion were: (1) presence of unilateral lower-extremity swelling; (2) computed tomography (CT) scans showing a tumor with external compression of the iliac or femoral vein, and (3) duplex ultrasound scans showing venous thrombosis or venous flow insufficiency over a femoral vein or saphenous vein. Results: Sixty-three patients (8%) developed an iliofemoral venous obstruction. The presence of iliofemoral venous thrombosis was detected in 21 of these patients (33%). The rate of iliofemoral venous thrombosis was significantly higher in patients with an invasion of the inguinal region, D-dimer levels >3,000 ng/ml, gastrointestinal cancer, or invasion of the inguinal lymph nodes. However, none of our patients with iliofemoral venous thrombosis had a detection of iliofemoral venous obstruction. Improved lower-extremity swelling was reported in 84% of the patients following combination therapy involving low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) and systemic therapy. Conclusion: Patients with an iliofemoral venous thrombosis mainly had iliofemoral venous obstruction by external tumor compression. Combination therapy with LMWH and systemic therapy were mandatory for these patients.
Kidney Cancer Linked to Chronic Hepatitis in the Asia-Pacific: A Population-Based Analysis
Authors: Lin Yu-Shan , Yeh Chih-Ching , Lin Yen-Chung , Su Chien-Tien , Sung Fung-Chang , Chang Shih-Ni , Liu Yun-Ru , Su Fu-Hsiung
Published: November 2016

Background: The association of renal cancer with viral hepatitis infection remains unclear. Using an insurance data set, this population-based case-control study evaluated the association of renal cancer with chronic hepatitis virus infection in an endemic area of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Methods: We enrolled 17,747 patients with renal cancer during the period from 2000 to 2011 from the National Health Insurance Research Database of Taiwan. The control group comprised 35,494 randomly selected people without renal cancer matched by age and gender to the patients in the study group. ORs were calculated to assess the association of chronic hepatitis virus infection with renal cancer by using logistic regression analysis. Results: Renal cancer was associated with HBV and HCV infection (OR 1.38, 95% CI 1.24-1.54; OR 1.24, 95% CI 1.07-1.44, respectively). An analysis stratified by gender and age revealed that young male HBV carriers had a higher risk of renal cancer compared with men without viral hepatitis (age <55 years: OR 1.94, 95% CI 1.57-2.39; 55≤ age <64 years: OR 1.40, 95% CI 1.05-1.86). Male HCV-infected patients aged <55 years (OR 1.90, 95% CI 1.11-3.26) and female HCV carriers aged between 55 and 64 years (OR 1.59, 95% CI 1.00-2.53) had a significantly higher risk of renal cancer compared with their counterparts. Conclusions: Renal cancer is significantly associated with chronic hepatitis infection, particularly in younger HBV-infected men.
Optimization of human somatic cells cryopreservation protocols by polyethylene glycols
Authors: Perepelytsina O. M. , Ugnivenko A. P. , Burlaka D. P. , Bezugly S. V. , Sydorenko M. V.
Published: November 2016

Using of polyethylene glycol in optimization of human somatic cells of cryopreservation protocols was analyzed. Low molecular weight PEG as vitrification solution supplement exhibited a high cooling speed and provided cell survival in 200 % comparing with control. It allows recommending the use of low molecular weight PEG in vitrification environment for effective cell vitrification protocols.
Determination of hydroxycinnamic acids in the herb of stachys sieboldii miq
Authors: Marchyshyn S. M. , Husak L. V. , Berdey T. S.
Published: November 2016

In the article the results of study of qualitative composition and quantitative content of hydroxycinnamic acids in the herb of Stachys sieboldii Miq. are presented. By the method  of HPLC it was established the presence of chlorogenic, rosemarinic, caffeic and p-coumaric acids. Quantitative content of hydroxycinnamic acids was determined by the method of spectrophotometry.
Condition of antioxidant system in experimental animals with compensatory and decompensatory cor pulmonale
Authors: Slabyi O. B.
Published: November 2016

There was studied the condition of antioxidant system experimental animals with compensatory and decompensatory cor pulmonale. It was established that antioxidant protection of organism at compensatory cor pulmonale intensifies, and at decompensatory cor pulmonale essentialy worses.
Low efficacy of simvastatin in treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in rats
Authors: Nekrut D. O. , Lutsyuk M. B. , Ilchenko O. V.
Published: November 2016

We determined the possibility of simvastatin in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in rats. The animals were kept for 2 months at high-fatty diet with additional input homocysteine thiolactone. Then, the animals were divided into groups according to the doses (20 or 40 mg/kg body weight) and duration of treatment (14 or 28 days). At the end of experiment there was determined the concentration of homocysteine, serum biochemical parameters, intensity of oxidative stress and antioxidant defense, and the degree of hepatic fibrogenesis and steatohenesis. It was shown that simvastatin did not improve the health of rats.
Roleofgasotransmitters: nitrogen oxide and hydrogen sulfide in smool intestine of rats under cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase inhibition
Authors: Sklyarova Yu. O. , Denysenko N. V. , Ilkiv I. I. , Fomenko I. S.
Published: November 2016

Inexperimentstherewerecomparedthecyclooxygenaseinhibitionbyindomethacinanddualcycloocygenaseandlipoxygenaseblockageby 4-thiazolidinonederivatives, capabletoreleasehydrogensulfidein small intestine. Itwasshownthatindomethacinwasaccompaniedbytheformationoflesions in the distal part ofsmall intestine, significantactivationofinducibleNO-synthase, thedecreaseofH2Sproduction, riseinmalonicdialdehydeconcentrationand activity of myeloperoxidase. Theadministrationof5-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxybenzylidene)-4-thyoxo-thiazolidine-2-onand 2-[(4-chlor-phenyl-carbamoyl)-methyl]-3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)-acrylicaciddidn’tdemonstrateanulcerogenicactioninsmallintestine, thatwasprobablycausedbythereleaseofH2S from these compounds.
Peculiarities of dynamics indicators of endogenous intoxication in acute lung injury induced by hydrochloric acid
Authors: Kostina O. O. , Hudyma A. A.
Published: November 2016

In experimental studies on rats we found out that in acute lung injury rates there is increasing an endogenous intoxication – content serum fractions of average molecular weight within 48 hours of observation and erythrocytic index of intoxication for 24 hours followed by 72 hours of decrease in the experiment.
Antioxidant profile for rats with the closed cranial cerebral trauma in the treatment of cerebrogermum
Authors: Lukianchuk V. D. , Ohloblina M. V. , Koveshnikov O. V.
Published: November 2016

The work is devoted to the research of the condition of the main components of the antioxidant system at the terms of the closed cranial cerebral trauma and at its pharmaceutical correction of Cerebrogermum.  It is determined that in case of using of Cerebrogermum the activity of superoxiddismutasa is rised in the blood serum in average on 35 % concerning the significations of the control group (the closed cranial cerebral trauma without treatment), on 72 hour of experiment the activity of this are fixed in the groups of both intact and reviewer rats. It does not also yield to reviewer preparation the ability of Cerebrogermum to resist to oxidizing stress because of the activity of catalasa. In relation to the estimation of antioxidant activity it considerably outweighs sizes for rats under influence of Cerebrogermum ( in average on 65 %) which are registered in the control group. The received in the experiment data give the basis to assert that the potential cerebral protector owns the exactly ability to resist to oxidative stress that is formed on a background of the mechanical damage of cerebrum.
Change humoral immunity in various types of inflammatory reactions in animals with gastroduodenit
Authors: Bondarchuk V. I.
Published: November 2016

Based on experimental research there were studied the changes of indicators of circulating immune complexes and different classes of immunoglobulin’s in the blood of animals gastroduodenitis in various types of inflammatory reactions. The study found that experimental animals are marked expressed violations of humoral immunity. In blood marked increase in the number of immunoglobulin’s and circulating immune complexes. The biggest changes were found in animals with hyperergic type of inflammatory reaction, the least – with hypoergic type, changes in animals with type normergic occupy an intermediate position.
TRABALHADORES DO BRASIL, MIS QUERIDOS DESCAMISADOS: UMA (RE) INVENÇÃO SOBRE OS TRABALHADORES NO VARGUISMO E NO PERONISMO
Authors: Lago Mayra Coan
Published: November 2016

Pretendemos estudar os imaginários sociais sobre os trabalhadores, produzidos pelo discurso oficial, no varguismo e no peronismo. Posteriormente, pretendemos comparar os imaginários sociais sobre os trabalhadores no Estado Novo, com os do Primeiro Peronismo, visando compará-los. Para tal, analisaremos a dimensão simbólica, a partir do estudo dos discursos políticos das festas cívicas dos Primeiros de Maio e a dimensão “material”, a partir do estudo da legislação trabalhista e das políticas sociais promulgadas nestes momentos. A partir da análise da dupla dimensão propomos a ideia de uma (re) invenção sobre os trabalhadores
SOMOS TODOS AMERICANOS? UNIDADE E DIVERSIDADE REGIONAL NAS AMÉRICAS
Authors: Penha Eli Alves
Published: November 2016

O texto analisa os discursos e projetos de unidade continental, colocando em questão a pertinência da construção de uma identidade comum, a partir da noção de “americanidade". A “americanidade” e suas diferentes dimensões regionais, serão aqui investigadas considerando dois níveis de análise. O primeiro nível abarca a formação étnica das sociedades americanas, considerando as matrizes europeia, ameríndia e africana. O segundo nível de análise detém-se na regionalização do continente, procurando identificar alguns pontos de convergência sócio-políticas, apesar dos movimentos de fragmentação produzidos por fatores geopolíticos e ideológicos.
O TRABALHO HUMANO NA AMÉRICA LATINA: EVOLUÇÃO HISTÓRICA E CONDIÇÕES ATUAIS
Authors: Martins Juliane Caraveri , Pires Julio Manuel
Published: November 2016

A pesquisa analisou a evolução histórica do trabalho na América Latina e as condições atuais em que ele é realizado em face da globalização. A forma como o trabalho é exercido nos diferentes períodos históricos pode explicar as condições nas quais os direitos humanos são respeitados ou não. Baseada na análise bibliográfica, esta investigação apontou que, no caso da América Latina, a condição atual do trabalho assalariado é reflexo de seu passado de colônia de exploração, ancorada num economia agrário-exportadora. Esta situação impactou na conformação do mercado de trabalho dos países latino-americanos ao longo do tempo até a atualidade.
Focal Adhesion Kinase Promotes the Progression of Aortic Aneurysm by Modulating Macrophage Behavior
Authors: Harada Takasuke , Yoshimura Koichi , Yamashita Osamu , Ueda Koshiro , Morikage Noriyasu , Sawada Yasuhiro , Hamano Kimikazu
Published: November 2016

Objective—

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a life-threatening vascular disease that is associated with persistent inflammation and extracellular matrix degradation. The molecular mechanisms underlying the macrophage-mediated progression of AAA remain largely unclear.

Approach and Results—

We show that focal adhesion kinase (FAK) expression and activity are enhanced in macrophages that are recruited to AAA tissue. FAK potentiates tumor necrosis factor-α–induced secretion of matrix-degrading enzymes and chemokines by cultured macrophages. FAK also promotes macrophage chemotaxis. In mice, the administration of a FAK inhibitor that tempers local macrophage accumulation markedly suppresses the development and progression of chemically induced AAA.

Conclusions—

FAK plays a key role in macrophage behavior, which underlies the chronic progression of AAA. These findings provide insights into AAA progression and identify FAK as a novel therapeutic target.
Reassessment of Cardiac Function and Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator Use Among Medicare Patients With Low Ejection Fraction After Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Pokorney Sean D. , Miller Amy L. , Chen Anita Y. , Thomas Laine , Fonarow Gregg C. , de Lemos James A. , Al-Khatib Sana M. , Velazquez Eric J. , Peterson Eric D. , Wang Tracy Y.
Published: November 2016

Background:

Guidelines recommend that patients with low ejection fraction (EF) after myocardial infarction (MI) have their EF reassessed 40 days after MI for implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) candidacy. This study examines rates of EF reassessment and their association with 1-year ICD implantation in post-MI patients with low EF.

Methods:

We examined rates of postdischarge EF reassessment and ICD implantation among 10 289 Medicare-insured patients ≥65 years of age with an EF≤35% during the index MI admission from January 2007 through September 2010 in ACTION Registry–GWTG (Acute Coronary Treatment and Intervention Outcomes Network Registry
–
Get With The Guidelines). Multivariable Cox models tested the association between time-dependent EF reassessment and 1-year ICD implantation, stratified by revascularization status during the index MI admission.

Results:

Among patients with EF ≤35% during the index MI admission, 66.8% (95% confidence interval [CI], 65.9–67.8) had EF reassessment within the next year. Revascularized patients were more likely to have EF reassessment (76.9% [95% CI, 75.8–78.0)] versus 53.7% [95% CI, 52.2–55.2];
P
<0.001) and had shorter times to EF reassessment (median, 67 versus 84 days;
P
<0.001) than nonrevascularized patients. Among patients with EF reassessment, only 11% received an ICD within 1 year. Reassessment of EF was associated with a higher likelihood of ICD implantation for both revascularized (unadjusted, 12.1% versus 2.4%,
P
<0.001; adjusted hazard ratio, 10.6, 95% CI, 7.7–14.8) and nonrevascularized (unadjusted, 10.0% versus 1.7%,
P
<0.001; adjusted hazard ratio, 6.1, 95% CI, 4.1–9.2) patients.

Conclusions:

In US practice, EF reassessments are commonly performed among patients with MI with an initially reduced EF. Although 1-year EF reassessment is associated with increased likelihood of ICD implantation, 1-year ICD implantation rates remain very low even among patients with EF reassessment, regardless of revascularization status.
Myocardial Immunocompetent Cells and Macrophage Phenotypes as Histopathological Surrogates for Diagnosis of Cardiac Sarcoidosis in Japanese
Authors: Honda Yasuyuki , Nagai Toshiyuki , Ikeda Yoshihiko , Sakakibara Mamoru , Asakawa Naoya , Nagano Nobutaka , Nakai Michikazu , Nishimura Kunihiro , Sugano Yasuo , Ohta‐Ogo Keiko , Asaumi Yasuhide , Aiba Takeshi , Kanzaki Hideaki , Kusano Kengo , Noguchi Teruo , Yasuda Satoshi , Tsutsui Hiroyuki , Ishibashi‐Ueda Hatsue , Anzai Toshihisa
Published: November 2016

Background

The histological diagnosis of cardiac sarcoidosis (
CS
) is based on the presence of myocardial granulomas; however, the sensitivity of endomyocardial biopsy is relatively low. We investigated whether immunocompetent cells including dendritic cells (
DC
) and macrophages in nongranuloma sections of endomyocardial biopsy samples could be histopathological surrogates for
CS
diagnosis.

Methods and Results

The numbers of
DC
and macrophages were investigated in 95 consecutive
CS
patients and 50 patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy as controls. All patients underwent endomyocardial biopsy, and immunohistochemical staining was performed on all samples. We examined these immunocompetent cells in nongranuloma sections in
CS
patients diagnosed by the presence of myocardial granulomas (n=26) and in
CS
patients without myocardial granulomas diagnosed by the Japanese Ministry of Health Welfare 2007 criteria (n=65) or the Heart Rhythm Society 2014 criteria (n=26). In
CS
patients with and without myocardial granulomas,
CD
209
+
DC
and
CD
68
+
macrophages were more frequently observed (
P
<0.01) and
CD
163
+
M2 macrophages were less frequently observed (
P
<0.01) in nongranuloma sections compared to controls. Furthermore, the combination of decreased
CD
163
+
M2/
CD
68
+
macrophage ratio and increased number of
CD
209
+
DC
in nongranuloma sections of
CS
patients demonstrated high specificity (100%, 95%
CI
92.7–100) for
CS
diagnosis with each diagnostic criteria and the presence of myocardial granulomas.

Conclusions

Increased number of
DC
and decreased M2 among all macrophages in nongranuloma sections of myocardium showed high specificity for
CS
diagnosis, suggesting
DC
and macrophage phenotypes as histopathological surrogates for the diagnosis of
CS
.
Repositionable Versus Balloon‐Expandable Devices for Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation in Patients With Aortic Stenosis
Authors: Pilgrim Thomas , Stortecky Stefan , Nietlispach Fabian , Heg Dik , Tueller David , Toggweiler Stefan , Ferrari Enrico , Noble Stéphane , Maisano Francesco , Jeger Raban , Roffi Marco , Grünenfelder Jürg , Huber Christoph , Wenaweser Peter , Windecker Stephan
Published: November 2016

Background

The safety and effectiveness of the fully repositionable
LOTUS
valve system as compared with the balloon‐expandable Edwards
SAPIEN
3 prosthesis for the treatment of aortic stenosis has not been evaluated to date.

Methods and Results

All patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation with the Edwards
SAPIEN
3 or the
LOTUS
valve system were included into the Swiss Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Registry. An adjusted analysis was performed to compare the early clinical safety outcome according to the Valve Academic Research Consortium‐2 definition. Between February 2014 and September 2015, 140 and 815 patients were treated with the
LOTUS
and the Edwards
SAPIEN
3 valve, respectively. There was no difference in crude and adjusted analyses of the early safety outcome between patients treated with
LOTUS
(14.3%) and those treated with Edwards
SAPIEN
3 (14.6%) (crude hazard ratio, 0.97; 95%
CI
, 0.61–1.56 [
P
=0.915]; adjusted hazard ratio, 1.03; 95%
CI
, 0.64–1.67 [
P
=0.909]). More than mild aortic regurgitation was <2% for both devices. A total of 34.3% of patients treated with
LOTUS
and 14.1% of patients treated with Edwards
SAPIEN
3 required a permanent pacemaker (
HR
, 2.76; 95%
CI
, 1.97–3.87 [
P
<0.001]).

Conclusions

The repositionable
LOTUS
valve system and the balloon‐expandable Edwards
SAPIEN
3 prosthesis appeared comparable in regard to the Valve Academic Research Consortium‐2 early safety outcome, and the rates of more than mild aortic regurgitation were exceedingly low for both devices. The need for new permanent pacemaker implantation was more frequent among patients treated with the
LOTUS
valve.
Taxonomic notes on the genus Salmoneus Holthuis, 1955 (Decapoda, Caridea, Alpheidae) from the South China Sea
Authors: Wang Yanrong , Sha Zhongli
Published: November 2016

Four species of the genusSalmoneusHolthuis, 1955 are described and illustrated in the present paper, including two newly recorded species,Salmoneus cristatus(Coutière, 1897) andSalmoneus tricristatusBanner, 1959. The mouthparts of these two species are illustrated herein. A key to all Indo-West Pacific species of the genusSalmoneusis provided as well.
Rapid development and characterization of microsatellite markers for the sandhopper Trinorchestia longiramus Jo, 1988 (Amphipoda, Talitridae) in Korea using a 454 pyrosequencing approach
Authors: Hyun Y. S. , Song H. Y. , Woo J. , Lim B. J. , Oh S. , An H. S.
Published: November 2016

The sandhopper Trinorchestia longiramus Jo, 1988 (Amphipoda, Talitridae) is indigenous to Korea and has great ecological importance as a key species in the food web. To assess the ecological impact of environmental disturbance, we developed microsatellite markers for T. longiramus using 454 pyrosequencing. Thirteen of 35 primer sets producing quality PCR products were polymorphic. In an analysis of 88 individuals from two T. longiramus populations, the mean number of alleles per locus was 8.5, and the mean observed and expected heterozygosities were 0.53 and 0.56, respectively. No linkage disequilibrium was found between any pair of loci. Significant genetic differentiation was detected between the populations. A significant deviation from the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was observed at one locus. The cross-amplification test in two sympatric species that are classified in the same family, showed the amplification of two loci. The high degree of polymorphism of these 13 microsatellites will be useful for future conservation genetic studies of this species.
Great Expectations: Sharing Confidences in eu Criminal Justice
Authors: Baker Estella
Published: November 2016

This paper considers the evolution of the European Union’s criminal justice competence using the analytical motif of “confidence”. In order to explain why this approach was chosen the first part describes three confidence “vignettes” –situations or senses in which “confidence” forms a key part of the narrative of the Union’s criminal justice development. Picking up upon the renaissance of interest among social scientists in the study of emotions, the paper then outlines the account of ‘Action and confidence’ that was provided by the sociologist Jack Barbalet, in the context of his seminal work, Emotion, Social Theory, and Social Structure. This is then used to provide a series of reflections on the role of confidence (and emotion more generally) in relation to the Union’s emergence as a criminal justice actor and, in turn, also on Barbalet’s account.
Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters in the Western Balkan
Authors: Klip André
Published: November 2016

The central focus of the study is what obstacles might exist in national legislation and practice of the Western Balkan states that might hinder or complicate the efficiency of international cooperation, according to European standards. The states that are included in the study are all states that have expressed their wish to accede to the European Union (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia) and Croatia that already has become a Member State. The question “What could amount to impediments to international cooperation?” has been leading throughout the study. The study is therefore to be considered as problem-focused. The study analyses various forms of international cooperation, such as exchange of information, mutual legal assistance, extradition, transfer of proceedings, joint investigation teams, confiscation, as well as the transfer of judgements and prisoners.
Pecunia Non Olet: The Case for the €500 Banknote
Authors: Murphy Christopher
Published: November 2016

In early 2016 the Governing Council of the European Central Bank announced that it has reached a formal decision to stop production and issuance of the €500 banknote by the end of 2018. This decision was ostensibly taken due to concerns that the Eurozone’s highest denomination banknote could be used to facilitate illegal activities of both a criminal and terrorist nature. Nevertheless, a host of significant questions remain about how this decision will affect European citizens and their savings, especially against the current backdrop of lacklustre financial growth and continued economic fragility.
“Angels in the Guise of Saints”: A Syrian Tradition in Constantinople
Authors: Baranov Vladimir
Published: November 2016

The article reconstructs the doctrine of Byzantine Iconoclasts on the postmortem inactivity of saints, and finds its background in the early Antiochean and Syrian doctrine on the “sleep of souls,” which occurs in Isaac the Syrian among many other writers.
Theology for Rent: Nicholas Mesarites as a Compiler of Andronicus Camaterus
Authors: Makarov Dmitry I.
Published: November 2016

Nicholas Mesarites (ca. 1163/1164 – post 1214) was rather a “theologian of transition”, than an independent thinker. Yannis Spiteris discovered in 1977 that the entire chapter on the primacy of Rome in Mesarites’ treatise The Account of the Political and Ecclesiastical Events of the Year 1214 turned out to be a large quote from the Sacred Arsenal (1173–1174) by Andronicus Camaterus. We have enlarged Spiteris’ observations by discovering that Chs. 35–50 of the treatise are a large quotation (with the elements of a paraphrase) of the triadological section of the Arsenal, which was centered on the Filioque. We can conclude that Mesarites’ piece might have served as a florilegium and a channel of transmission of Camaterus’ ideas concerning the interpenetration of the Persons within the Holy Trinity and the inadmissibility of confounding their hypostatic properties, like the Holy Spirit’s hypostatic projection by the Father, with the natural ones.
Note on Thomas Paine’s Collected Works in Progress
Authors: Claeys Gregory
Published: November 2016

Paine remains the most important contributor to the American and French revolutions for whom no reliable collection of writings has been published. All existing collections of Paine’s writings fall short of scholarly standards. At least twenty-six Paine’s texts have been deattributed and seventeen have been recently added to his collected works. A complete edition based on modern scholarly standards remains to be finalized and the author gives insights of the work that lies ahead.
Benjamin Franklin and the Holy See, 1783–1784
Authors: Codignola Luca
Published: November 2016

Benjamin Franklin played a significant role in the early encounter between Rome and the United States. By highlighting Franklin’s role one is likely to question the two main tenets of traditional Catholic historiography in this regard. First of all, that the Holy See did not unwillingly submit itself to any imposition of newly-devised American democratic procedures in selecting how best to deal with the new republic. Secondly, that Franklin did constantly intervene in religious matters, at least as far as these concerned the establishment of the Catholic Church in the United States. In fact, the adoption of a democratic form of selection of the higher hierarchy was easily accepted and indeed exploited by the Holy See. Furthermore, much was going on underneath the official doctrine of the separation between church and state. This resembled old-regime diplomatic wrangling and had Franklin as its main protagonist.
Paine’s Debt to Hume?
Authors: Potofsky Allan
Published: November 2016

It has been famously argued that Tom Paine was not much of an economic thinker. Indeed, in his published work, we see relatively scarce systematic commentary on the subject. But, as befitting his origins in a mercantile family, Paine as a young man had prepared for a career as an excise officer. He later fully participated in a broader Enlightenment conversation about the new world of credit, trade, commercial and monetary policies, among other fiscal issues of early globalization. In particular, Paine formulated a systematic critique of public debt as a compelling way to discuss political sovereignty, the social contract, and the true wealth of nations – among other issues. In 1796, in France, Paine published a critique of wartime funding of the British economy with the publication of The Decline and Fall of the English System of Finance inspired by the title of Gibbon’s The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire (1776). Paine’s denunciation of the economic self-mutilation caused by British wartime expansionism focused on a reform by the Prime Minister, William Pitt the Younger, who partially privatized the public debt of Britain. The British pound sterling was henceforth sustained by mysterious private loans whose very terms were obscured from public opinion. This article argues that the pamphlet had many parallels to David Hume’s 1752 essay Of Public Debt which Hume revised after the Seven Years War with a radical critique of public debt. The Humean origins of many of Paine’s arguments are manifest in the corrupting nature of public debt tied to military expenditure. To Hume and Paine, gimmicky forms of state borrowing in times of war lead to the bankruptcy of expansionist absolutism and to the eventual “decline and fall” of belligerent empires.
Between Assembly and Crown
Authors: Mirvis Stanley
Published: November 2016

This article explores the issue of discriminatory taxation against colonial Jamaican Jews and the trans-Atlantic Jewish lobby. Based on colonial correspondences, this article makes two main arguments. First, Collective Jewish taxation was debated in colonial correspondences to a far greater extent than its actual financial significance, as it became an issue symbolic of the growing rift between the Jamaican Assembly and the Board of Trade/Crown. Second, while Caribbean Jewish communities are usually understood as satellite dependencies on the Western Sephardic metropoles of Amsterdam or London, placing the Jewish tax in local Jamaican context reveals that colonial Jews deferred to Europe to intercede on their behalf by necessity rather than default. When local circumstances favored the Jews they attempted to lobby against it themselves.
Encyonema bonapartei sp. nov.: a new freshwater diatom species (Cymbellales, Bacillariophyceae) in canals of Great East region (France)
Authors: HEUDRE DAVID , WETZEL CARLOS E. , ECTOR LUC
Published: November 2016

As a part of the Monitoring Program of the European Water Framework Directive, the phytobenthos of streams and canals was studied in the Great East region of northeastern France (French part of Rhine-Meuse river basin and Seine-Normandy basin). A new species, Encyonema bonapartei was identified in canals. Its morphology was examined in detail using light and scanning electron microscopy, which showed a unique combination of measurements and shape: valves are clearly asymmetrical and semi-elliptical to semi-elliptical-lanceolate with central area extended on ventral margin by shorter or missing striae. The striation is almost parallel with areolae indistinguishable in the light microscope. This paper provides comparison with morphologically similar species: Cymbopleura hustedtii, Encyonema brehmii, E. kalbei, E. marvanii, E. reichardtii and E. yuwadeeanum. Encyonema bonapartei was first discovered in the East Canal in 2014. It was then found in the Rhône-to-Rhine Canal and Champagne and Burgundy Canal in 2015. Most likely it will spread further in connected waterways. Information on its autecology is presented using the physicochemical data of the type locality.