bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum Stem Cell Growth Factor Beta for the Prediction of Therapy Response in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Sukowati Caecilia H. C. , Patti Riccardo , Pascut Devis , Ladju Rusdina B. , Tarchi Paola , Zanotta Nunzia , Comar Manola , Tiribelli Claudio , Crocè Lory S.
Published: August 2018

Introduction. Chronic inflammatory response is one of major contributors in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Inflammatory molecules, such as cytokines and growth factors in the circulation, can be useful in the diagnosis and prognosis of the patients. The stem cell growth factor beta (SCGFβ), a newly found protein, is a secreted sulfated glycoprotein and it functions as a growth factor for primitive hematopoietic progenitor cells. The level of SCGFβ had been reported to be elevated in several cancer types. However, there is very few or even no information on this protein in the study of HCC, even more in clinical studies. Methods. A multiplex immunoassay panel of 48 cytokines and growth factors were utilized to screen 68 sera from 29 HCC patients at pretreatment (T0), 1 month (T1), and 6 months (T6) after treatment by either radiofrequency ablation (RF) or transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). Treatment response was evaluated according to mRECIST criteria. Results. Immunoassay screening showed that the levels of IL-17, CTACK, TNFα, IL-2Rα, IL-8, and SCGFβ were different in Complete Responders (CR) and Nonresponders (NR) groups. At T0 and T1, the SCGFβ level was significantly the highest in NR (23.8 and 40.7 ng/mL, respectively), followed by early recurrence (25.4 and 25.0 ng/mL), and CR (6.7 and 5.3 ng/mL), independently from HCV, stages, and treatment type. Low basal SCGFβ level was associated with longer disease-free survival compared to high SCGFβ. Conclusion. In this study, for the first time, we demonstrate that the high level of serum SCGFβ at pre- and posttreatment is associated with HCC nonresponsiveness.
Planning of Electric Power Systems Considering Virtual Power Plants with Dispatchable Loads Included: An Inexact Two-Stage Stochastic Linear Programming Model
Authors: Zhou Changyu , Huang Guohe , Chen Jiapei
Published: August 2018

In this study, an inexact two-stage stochastic linear programming (ITSLP) method is proposed for supporting sustainable management of electric power system under uncertainties. Methods of interval-parameter programming and two-stage stochastic programming were incorporated to tackle uncertainties expressed as interval values and probability distributions. The dispatchable loads are integrated into the framework of the virtual power plants, and the support vector regression technique is applied to the prediction of electricity demand. For demonstrating the effectiveness of the developed approach, ITSLP is applied to a case study of a typical planning problem of power system considering virtual power plants. The results indicate that reasonable solutions for virtual power plant management practice have been generated, which can provide strategies in mitigating pollutant emissions, reducing system costs, and improving the reliability of power supply. ITSLP is more reliable for the risk-aversive planners in handling high-variability conditions by considering peak-electricity demand and the associated recourse costs attributed to the stochastic event. The solutions will help decision makers generate alternatives in the event of the insufficient power supply and offer insight into the tradeoffs between economic and environmental objectives.
Effects of Mantra Meditation versus Music Listening on Knee Pain, Function, and Related Outcomes in Older Adults with Knee Osteoarthritis: An Exploratory Randomized Clinical Trial (RCT)
Authors: Innes Kim E. , Selfe Terry Kit , Kandati Sahiti , Wen Sijin , Huysmans Zenzi
Published: August 2018

Objective. Disease‐modifying treatments for OA remain elusive, and commonly used medications can have serious side effects. Although meditation and music listening (ML) have been shown to improve outcomes in certain chronic pain populations, research in OA is sparse. In this pilot RCT, we explore the effects of two mind‐body practices, mantra meditation (MM) and ML, on knee pain, function, and related outcomes in adults with knee OA. Methods. Twenty‐two older ambulatory adults diagnosed with knee OA were randomized to a MM (N=11) or ML program (N=11) and asked to practice 15‐20 minutes, twice daily for 8 weeks. Core outcomes included knee pain (Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score [KOOS] and Numeric Rating Scale), knee function (KOOS), and perceived OA severity (Patient Global Assessment). Additional outcomes included perceived stress (Perceived Stress Scale), mood (Profile of Mood States), sleep (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), and health‐related quality of life (QOL, SF‐36). Participants were assessed at baseline and following completion of the program. Results. Twenty participants (91%) completed the study (9 MM, 11 ML). Compliance was excellent; participants completed an average of 12.1±0.83 sessions/week. Relative to baseline, participants in both groups demonstrated improvement post‐intervention in all core outcomes, including knee pain, function, and perceived OA severity, as well as improvement in mood, perceived stress, and QOL (Physical Health) (p’s≤0.05). Relative to ML, the MM group showed greater improvements in overall mood and sleep (p’s≤0.04), QOL‐Mental Health (p<0.07), kinesiophobia (p=0.09), and two domains of the KOOS (p’s<0.09). Conclusions. Findings of this exploratory RCT suggest that a simple MM and, possibly, ML program may be effective in reducing knee pain and dysfunction, decreasing stress, and improving mood, sleep, and QOL in adults with knee OA.
Microbiological Quality Assessment of Popular Fresh Date Samples Available in Local Outlets of Dhaka City, Bangladesh
Authors: Zamir Rausan , Islam A. B. M. Nazmul , Rahman Anisur , Ahmed Sunzid , Omar Faruque M.
Published: August 2018

It is evident that date fruits provide a wide variety of essential nutrients which impart potential human health benefits. In Bangladesh, the popularity of date and its consumption surge few-fold during Ramadan among Muslims owing to the profound emotion related to religious belief that breaking of dawn-to-dusk fasting with dates is fulfilling a Sunnah. The present study aimed to explore the microbiological quality of the five most popular fresh date samples (Nagal, Dhapas, Boroi, Morium, and Tunisia) purchased from different locations of Dhaka City, Bangladesh. Among 25 samples tested, 23 were observed to carry 3.30-5.65 Log CFU/gm aerobic bacteria and 3.30-5.36 Log CFU/gm yeasts and molds population. Coliform bacteria and Escherichia coli were not found in any of the samples analyzed in this study. However, except Nagal and Boroi from Mohammadpur and Mirpur, respectively, none of the samples were found safe to consume according to the microbiological grade recommended by Woolworths Quality Assurance Standard (WQAS), 2009, as fresh dates with microbial load can cause food poisoning or even foodborne intoxication. Date samples with less or no processing is responsible for this contamination which can be subsided and eliminated by appropriate handling and hygiene practices during postharvest processing.
Spatial Directionality Found in Frontal-Parietal Attentional Networks
Authors: Hossain Gahangir , Myers Mark H. , Kozma Robert
Published: August 2018

Research in last few years on neurophysiology focused on several areas across the cortex during cognitive processing to determine the dominant direction of electrical activity. However, information about the frequency and direction of episodic synchronization related to higher cognitive functions remain unclear. Our aim was to determine whether neural oscillations carry perceptual information as spatial patterns across the cortex, which could be found in the scalp EEG of human subjects while being engaged in visual sensory stimulation. Magnitude squared coherence of neural activity during task states that “finger movement with Eyes Open (EO) or Eyes Wandering (EW)” among all electrode combinations has the smallest standard deviation and variations. Additionally, the highest coherence among the electrode pairs occurred between alpha (8-12 Hz) and beta (12-16 Hz) ranges. Our results indicate that alpha rhythms seem to be regulated during activities when an individual is focused on a given task. Beta activity, which has also been implicated in cognitive processing to neural oscillations, is seen in our work as a manner to integrate external stimuli to higher cognitive activation. We have found spatial network organization which served to classify the EEG epochs in time with respect to the stimuli class. Our findings suggest that cortical neural signaling utilizes alpha-beta phase coupling during cognitive processing states, where beta activity has been implicated in shifting cognitive states. Significance. Our approach has found frontoparietal attentional mechanisms in shifting brain states which could provide new insights into understanding the global cerebral dynamics of intentional activity and reflect how the brain allocates resources during tasking and cognitive processing states.
A Fatal Case of Influenza B Myocarditis with Cardiac Tamponade
Authors: Roto Dominick , Malnoske Michelle L. , Winters Shira , Georas Steve N.
Published: August 2018

Background. Influenza B is generally regarded as a less severe counterpart to influenza A, typically causing mild upper respiratory symptoms. Myocardial involvement with influenza B is a rare complication, better described in children than adults. However, when it occurs, it can lead to profound myocarditis with progression to shock requiring aggressive supportive care. Case Presentation. We present a case of cardiac tamponade in the setting of influenza B infection in a previously healthy 57-year-old woman, with progression to refractory shock and death. Autopsy revealed myocardial necrosis with infiltration of CD3+ lymphocytes, and little evidence of viral pneumonia. Conclusions. Myocarditis is a rare complication of influenza B in adults, and subsequent pericardial effusion with tamponade physiology is a previously unreported event in an otherwise healthy adult without other medical comorbidities. While rare, this is a serious and potentially fatal complication that clinicians should be aware of when evaluating a patient with suspected viral illness who is exhibiting shock physiology.
Experimental and Numerical Study on Hydrodynamic Performance of an Underwater Glider
Authors: Liu Yanji , Ma Jie , Ma Ning , Huang Zhijian
Published: August 2018

The hydrodynamic coefficients are important parameters for predicting the motion of the glider and upgrading the hull design. In this paper, based on the Reynolds number similarity theory, 6 degrees of freedom (DOFs) of the fluid force and torque of a 1:1 full-scale glider model are measured. The present measurements were carried out at (2 - 14m/s) by varying attack angles and sideslip angles (-9 - 9°), respectively. The measurements were used to study the variation of the hydrodynamics of the glider, and the measurements have also been used to validate results obtained from a CFD code that uses RNG k-ε. The hydrodynamic force coefficients obtained from CFD accord well with the measurements. However, the torque coefficients difference is fairly large. Dynamics simulation results show that CFD results can be used to design and study the motion characteristics of gliders. In order to simplify the design process of gliders, we fit the empirical formula based on the experimental data and obtain a drag coefficient equation with Reynolds number. The influence of two kinds of appendages of the Conductance-Temperature-Depth (CTD) unit and thruster unit on the glider drag were studied by a contrast test. The analysis results can provide reference for design and the motion investigate of gliders.
In Situ Growth of ZnO Nanostructures on Cotton Fabric by Solochemical Process for Antibacterial Purposes
Authors: Souza D. A. R. , Gusatti M. , Ternus R. Z. , Fiori M. A. , Riella H. G.
Published: August 2018

A practical and economical method was developed for the production of an antibacterial cotton fabric using zinc oxide nanostructures without the use of surface modifying agents. In this process, zinc nitrate hexahydrate and potassium hydroxide were used as starting materials and the reaction was performed at 50°C. The in situ growth of ZnO nanostructures on cotton fabric occurred in a single-stage process, and it started when the fabric samples were dipped for 1 min in the solution containing all the starting materials. The treated and untreated fabric samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and EDS. The cotton fabrics coated with ZnO nanostructures presented an antibacterial efficiency towards Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a gram-negative bacteria, and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), a gram-positive bacteria.
ATR Inhibition Is a Promising Radiosensitizing Strategy for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Tu Xinyi , Kahila Mohamed M. , Zhou Qin , Yu Jia , Kalari Krishna R. , Wang Liewei , Harmsen William S. , Yuan Jian , Boughey Judy C. , Goetz Matthew P. , Sarkaria Jann N. , Lou Zhenkun , Mutter Robert W.
Published: August 2018

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is characterized by elevated locoregional recurrence risk despite aggressive local therapies. New tumor-specific radiosensitizers are needed. We hypothesized that the ATR inhibitor, VX-970 (now known as M6620), would preferentially radiosensitize TNBC. Noncancerous breast epithelial and TNBC cell lines were investigated in clonogenic survival, cell cycle, and DNA damage signaling and repair assays. In addition, patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models generated prospectively as part of a neoadjuvant chemotherapy study from either baseline tumor biopsies or surgical specimens with chemoresistant residual disease were assessed for sensitivity to fractionated radiotherapy, VX-970, or the combination. To explore potential response biomarkers, exome sequencing was assessed for germline and/or somatic alterations in homologous recombination (HR) genes and other alterations associated with ATR inhibitor sensitivity. VX-970 preferentially inhibited ATR-Chk1-CDC25a signaling, abrogated the radiotherapy-induced G2–M checkpoint, delayed resolution of DNA double-strand breaks, and reduced colony formation after radiotherapy in TNBC cells relative to normal-like breast epithelial cells. In vivo, VX-970 did not exhibit significant single-agent activity at the dose administered even in the context of genomic alterations predictive of ATR inhibitor responsiveness, but significantly sensitized TNBC PDXs to radiotherapy. Exome sequencing and functional testing demonstrated that combination therapy was effective in both HR-proficient and -deficient models. PDXs established from patients with chemoresistant TNBC were also highly radiosensitized. In conclusion, VX-970 is a tumor-specific radiosensitizer for TNBC. Patients with residual TNBC after neoadjuvant chemotherapy, a subset at particularly high risk of relapse, may be ideally suited for this treatment intensification strategy. Mol Cancer Ther; 17(11); 2462–72. ©2018 AACR.
Longitudinal Liquid Biopsy and Mathematical Modeling of Clonal Evolution Forecast Time to Treatment Failure in the PROSPECT-C Phase II Colorectal Cancer Clinical Trial
Authors: Khan Khurum H. , Cunningham David , Werner Benjamin , Vlachogiannis Georgios , Spiteri Inmaculada , Heide Timon , Mateos Javier Fernandez , Vatsiou Alexandra , Lampis Andrea , Damavandi Mahnaz Darvish , Lote Hazel , Huntingford Ian Said , Hedayat Somaieh , Chau Ian , Tunariu Nina , Mentrasti Giulia , Trevisani Francesco , Rao Sheela , Anandappa Gayathri , Watkins David , Starling Naureen , Thomas Janet , Peckitt Clare , Khan Nasir , Rugge Massimo , Begum Ruwaida , Hezelova Blanka , Bryant Annette , Jones Thomas , Proszek Paula , Fassan Matteo , Hahne Jens C. , Hubank Michael , Braconi Chiara , Sottoriva Andrea , Valeri Nicola
Published: August 2018

Sequential profiling of plasma cell-free DNA (cfDNA) holds immense promise for early detection of patient progression. However, how to exploit the predictive power of cfDNA as a liquid biopsy in the clinic remains unclear. RAS pathway aberrations can be tracked in cfDNA to monitor resistance to anti-EGFR monoclonal antibodies in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. In this prospective phase II clinical trial of single-agent cetuximab in RAS wild-type patients, we combine genomic profiling of serial cfDNA and matched sequential tissue biopsies with imaging and mathematical modeling of cancer evolution. We show that a significant proportion of patients defined as RAS wild-type based on diagnostic tissue analysis harbor aberrations in the RAS pathway in pretreatment cfDNA and, in fact, do not benefit from EGFR inhibition. We demonstrate that primary and acquired resistance to cetuximab are often of polyclonal nature, and these dynamics can be observed in tissue and plasma. Furthermore, evolutionary modeling combined with frequent serial sampling of cfDNA allows prediction of the expected time to treatment failure in individual patients. This study demonstrates how integrating frequently sampled longitudinal liquid biopsies with a mathematical framework of tumor evolution allows individualized quantitative forecasting of progression, providing novel opportunities for adaptive personalized therapies.

Significance: Liquid biopsies capture spatial and temporal heterogeneity underpinning resistance to anti-EGFR monoclonal antibodies in colorectal cancer. Dense serial sampling is needed to predict the time to treatment failure and generate a window of opportunity for intervention. Cancer Discov; 8(10); 1270–85. ©2018 AACR.

See related commentary by Siravegna and Corcoran, p. 1213.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1195
Inhibition of NF-κB by Pyrrolidine Dithiocarbamate Prevents the Inflammatory Response in a Ligature-Induced Peri-Implantitis Model: A Canine Study
Authors: He Chun-Yan , Jiang Li-Peng , Wang Cheng-Yue , Zhang Yue
Published: August 2018

Background/Aims: The roles of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) in peri-implantitis are unclear. Here, we used a canine model of peri-implantitis to explore the effects of inhibiting NF-κB with pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC) on the inflammatory response in ligature-induced peri-implantitis. Methods: After successfully establishing the peri-implantitis model, beagles were randomly assigned to normal, model or PDTC groups. ELISA tests were used to determine the levels of interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, IL-8 and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). Immunohistochemistry was employed to assess the expression of NF-κB p65. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was performed to determine the mRNA levels of TLR4 and NF-κB p65, and western blot analysis was used to measure the protein levels of TLR4 in periodontal tissues from each group. Periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PDLFs) were cultured and subsequently classified into PDLF normal, PDLF model, PDLF LPS, PDLF PDTC, and PDLF LPS + PDTC groups. An immunofluorescence assay was used to measure the expression level of NF-κB p65. The CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry were performed to evaluate cell proliferation and apoptosis. Results: The in vitro results indicated that NF-κB p65 and TLR4 were upregulated in canine periodontal tissues, and PDTC could suppress the expression levels of NF-κB p65 and TLR4. Inflammation could increase TLR4 protein expression in canine periodontal tissue, and PDTC could inhibit the inflammation-induced increase in TLR4 protein expression. These results revealed that PDTC could reverse the LPS-induced increases in the levels of IL-1, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α. In vivo, the results demonstrated that PDTC inhibited the LPS-induced NF-κB p65 upregulation, and PDTC could reverse the inhibitory effect of the PDLF model + LPS on the proliferation of periodontal fibroblasts. The results also showed that in the PDLF model, LPS promoted PDLF apoptosis by inducing implant periodontitis in canines, but PDTC inhibited the PDLF apoptosis and relieved implant periodontitis in canines. Conclusion: Based on our results, we concluded that PDTC can inhibit the expression of NF-κB and alleviate the inflammatory response induced by LPS, thereby preventing periodontal inflammation and reducing the development of peri-implantitis.
Carbon Monoxide Inhibits Cytokine and Chloride Secretion in Human Bronchial Epithelia
Authors: Zhang Rui-Gang , Yip Chung-Yin , Ko Wing-hung
Published: August 2018

Background/Aims: Carbon monoxide (CO) is an important gas produced endogenously by heme oxygenase (HO) that functions as an anti-inflammatory and in ion channel modulation, but the effects of CO on airway inflammation and ion transport remains unclear. Methods: The effect of CO on cell damage- and nucleotide-induced pro-inflammatory cytokine release in primary human bronchial epithelia cells (HBE) and in the 16HBE14o- human bronchial epithelial cell line were investigated. The effects of CO on calcium- and cAMP-dependent chloride (Cl-) secretion were examined using a technique that allowed the simultaneous measurement and quantification of real-time changes in signalling molecules (cAMP and Ca2+) and ion transport in a polarised epithelium. Results: CO suppressed the release of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 and decreased the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and NF-κB p65. Furthermore, CO inhibited UTP-induced increases in calcium and Cl- secretion, and forskolin-induced increases in cAMP and Cl- secretion. Conclusions: These findings suggest a novel anti-inflammatory role of CO in human bronchial epithelia via interactions with purinergic signalling pathways. Further, CO modulated both the Ca2+- and cAMP-dependent secretion of Cl-.
Elevated Interleukin-38 Level Associates with Clinical Response to Atorvastatin in Patients with Hyperlipidemia
Authors: Yang Ning , Song Yanqiu , Dong Bo , Li Yang , Kou Lu , Yang Jingyu , Qin Qin
Published: August 2018

Background/Aims: Hyperlipidemia is a risk factor for various cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. And it is tightly related to chronic inflammation. Interleukin-38 (IL-38) represents a new member of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Thus we studied the important role of IL-38 in hyperlipidemia development and treatment. Methods: The mRNA level of IL-38 in PBMCs (peripheral blood mononuclear cells) and serum IL-38 levels in hyperlipidemia patients and healthy controls were measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA). The hyperlipidemia patients were further divided into two groups (Sensitive and Resistant Group) according to their clinical response to Atorvastatin therapy. Finally, the effects of IL-38 on hyperlipidemia was evaluated in the mice model. Results: Data showed that the IL-38 mRNA and serum protein levels were higher in patients with hyperlipidemia compared with healthy controls. And the IL-38 mRNA and serum protein levels were higher in patients sensitive to Atorvastatin therapy than the resistant group. In vitro, IL-38 inhibited the production of IL-6, IL-1β and CRP in PBMCs of patients with hyperlipidemia. In the mice model of hyperlipidemia, IL-38 was also elevated during the hyperlipidemia development. Furthermore, the IL-38 over-expressed by adeno-associated virus significantly inhibited the hyperlipidemia development, inflammatory factor secretion and also the atherosclerosis process. Conclusion: Thus our data showed that IL-38 might present protective effects on hyperlipidemia treatment.
Overexpression of Toll-Like Receptor 4 Contributes to Phagocytosis of Salmonella Enterica Serovar Typhimurium via Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase Signaling in Sheep
Authors: Wang Sutian , Deng Shoulong , Cao Yang , Zhang Rui , Wang Zhixian , Jiang Xiaojing , Wang Jiahao , Zhang Xiaosheng , Zhang Jinlong , Liu Guoshi , Lian Zhengxing 
Published: August 2018

Background/Aims: Phagocytosis of bacteria by monocytes/macrophages can trigger the immune response and the clearance of bacteria. This innate immune response involves Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). However, much remains unknown about the mechanism of TLR4-regulated phagocytosis of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. typhimurium) within sheep monocytes/macrophages. Here, we aimed to address these knowledge gaps by infecting transgenic sheep overexpressing TLR4 with S. typhimurium and examining the phagocytic mechanisms involved. Methods: Transgenic sheep were generated by microinjection of the constructed plasmids into fertilized eggs. Monocytes/macrophages isolated from sheep blood were stimulated with LPS and S. typhimurium. Phagocytosis-related factor expression, phagocytic ability, and adhesion were then determined. TLR4/phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling was inhibited to investigate if this pathway is involved in changes in bacterial internalization in sheep. Results: We found that TLR4 overexpression effectively activated the PI3K signaling pathway and upregulated the expression of scavenger receptors. Additionally, actin polymerization and adhesive capacity were both enhanced in TLR4-overexpressing sheep monocytes/macrophages. TLR4 inhibition decreased S. typhimurium phagocytosis by reducing the actin polymerization and adhesive capacity of cells. Furthermore, inhibition of PI3K markedly impaired TLR4-dependent phagocytosis by restraining actin polymerization and scavenger receptor expression and reduced the adhesive capacity of the monocytes/macrophages. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that overexpression of TLR4 enhances phagocytosis through PI3K signaling and the subsequent activation of actin polymerization and scavenger receptors in sheep monocytes/macrophages infected with S. typhimurium.
MicroRNA-495 Ameliorates Cardiac Microvascular Endothelial Cell Injury and Inflammatory Reaction by Suppressing the NLRP3 Inflammasome Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhou Tao  , Xiang Dao-Kang , Li Sui-Ning , Yang Lie-Hong , Gao Lu-Fang , Feng Chao
Published: August 2018

Background/Aims: In recent years, microRNA-495 (miR-495) has been reported to be a tumor-suppressor miR that is down-modulated in cancers. However, its potential mechanism remains unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to demonstrate the role of miR-495 in cardiac microvascular endothelial cell (CMEC) injury and inflammatory reaction by mediating the pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome signaling pathway. Methods: Overall, 40 mice were assigned into myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MIR) and sham groups. After model establishment, the levels of troponin T (TnT), troponin I (TnI), N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), creatine kinase isoenzyme MB (CK-MB), myoglobin (MYO), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin 1beta (IL-1β) were detected by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Apoptosis was evaluated using Terminal deoxy (d)-UTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining, the level of NLRP3 protein was determined by immunohistochemical assay, and miR-495 was detected by in situ hybridization (ISH). The infarct size was determined using 2, 3, 5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining. The expression of miR-495 and the mRNA and protein levels of NLRP3, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-18 and caspase-1 were evaluated by RT-qPCR and western blot analysis. After transfection, the cells were treated with a miR-495 mimic, a miR-495 inhibitor, or siNLRP3. Cell proliferation was measured by the 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and cell cycle and apoptosis by flow cytometry. Results: Mice with myocardial I/R injury had elevated levels of TnT, TnI, NT-proBNP, CK-MB, MYO, TNF-α and IL-1β; enhanced cell apoptosis; increased expression of NLRP3, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-18 and caspase-1; and decreased miR-495 expression. MiR-495 was confirmed to target NLRP3. Moreover, miR-495 reduced the mRNA and protein levels of NLRP3, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-18 and caspase-1, inhibited cell apoptosis and decreased cells at the G0/G1 phase while improving cell proliferation and increasing cells at the S phase. However, the effects of NLRP4 were proved to be reciprocal. Conclusion: In conclusion, the current study indicated that miR-495 improved CMEC injury and inflammation by suppressing the NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathway.
Medida e Ordem: Elementos do Universo Cósmico e Ético-Antropológico de Heráclito
Authors: Oliveira Esmael Alves de
Published: August 2018

O universo humano é complexo e, em consonância com o pensamento heraclítico, só poderia ser compreendido levando-se em consideração seus diversos aspectos. É difícil, portanto, falar do âmbito propriamente humano sem levar em conta o aspecto cosmológico e sua estreita relação com o lógos universal. É importante ressaltar que, em Heráclito, a problemática do éthos não se dará de forma bem estruturada; no entanto, nada impede a tentativa de se pensar a questão ética evocando alguns elementos do pensamento do efesino, que contém já em germe aquilo que será aprofundado a partir da segunda metade do século V (com Sócrates e os sofi stas) e que será tema de discussão de sucessivas gerações de pensadores.
O cidadão e o legislador na ética e política de Aristóteles.
Authors: Smit Martin Prado Sander
Published: August 2018

O cidadão e o legislador são conceitos de grande importância tanto na Ética a Nicômacos quanto na Política. É dos dois que depende a autossuficiência da cidade e a felicidade de seus habitantes, ou seja, a realização da finalidade da ciência política e da ética. A partir disso, este trabalho se propõe a elaborar a relação entre essas duas figuras, considerando o que é necessário para que alguém seja um bom cidadão e, no caso do legislador, o que o torna capaz de instituir uma boa constituição, e aquilo em que ela consiste. Nessas questões, delineiase mais claramente a relação entre os dois: o bom cidadão depende de boas leis (em sua formação e em sua convivência com outros cidadãos), elaboradas por bons legisladores, assim como o trabalho desses legisladores só alcança de fato sua finalidade se as leis são respeitadas e promovidas por cidadãos virtuosos.
O conceito de individuação de Gilles Deleuze: estudo introdutório sobre seu recurso a Espinosa.
Authors: Coelho Bruna Martins
Published: August 2018

O objeto deste estudo é o conceito de ‘individuação’ na filosofia de Gilles Deleuze a partir de sua interpretação da Ética de Espinosa. A teoria da individuação, um dos eixos condutores da experiência intelectual do filósofo francês, recebe seus primeiros contornos já em Empirismo e subjetividade: ensaio sobre a natureza humana segundo Hume, pois é a crítica da noção de sujeito o primeiro passo que a torna possível. Mas será em seus estudos sobre Espinosa que poderemos ver seu acabamento, com uma compreensão do indivíduo como um processo, como diferença em relação a si mesmo, como aberto para o fora que lhe constitui: melhor seria pensar em pré-individualidades. A diferença é compreendida no interior da imanência por meio de conceitos como ‘potência’, ‘quantidade intensiva’ e ‘afeto’. Abordaremos, especificamente, a compilação de aulas recémeditada sob o nome En medio a Espinosa, pois esta comunicação é uma introdução a esta temática e os textos de aula possuem um caráter didático pouco encontrado na obra do autor. Aponta-se, ainda, para o vínculo existente entre esta ‘Teoria da Individuação em Espinosa’ proposta por Deleuze e a formulação de uma ética.
Algumas considerações sobre o estatuto da crítica em Nancy Fraser
Authors: Almeida Nathalie Bressiani de
Published: August 2018

Em Redistribution or Recognition?, Nancy Fraser reformula a sua teoria a partir de uma reflexão acerca do que é Teoria Crítica. Ao se dar conta dos diversos problemas presentes em uma primeira formulação dada a ela a seu projeto crítico, Fraser repensa o vínculo entre a crítica e o diagnóstico de época e tenta rearticular os dois momentos de sua teoria, o descritivo e o normativo, por meio do que ela chama de uma relação dialética entre imanência e transcendência. Tendo isso em vista, esse artigo procurará, explorando os desenvolvimentos e mudanças do estatuto da crítica no interior do modelo teórico proposto por Fraser, explicitar o que ela entende por Teoria Crítica; isso, com o objetivo de problematizar o critério normativo utilizado por ela na avaliação do presente e a relação que se estabelece entre ele e as configurações sociais atuais.
A Religião na História: Leituras Dialéticas
Authors: Pinheiro Flávio Macedo
Published: August 2018

O papel da religião na História pode ser entendido de diversas formas e a partir de diferentes teorias e métodos de estudo. Enquanto forma de entender a realidade proposta notadamente por Hegel, a dialética possibilita uma leitura riquíssima, já que não descarta as contradições entre as manifestações religiosas e a realidade, antes, analisa a religião a partir dessas contradições. Mais do que entender a religião segundo a filosofia hegeliana, serão analisados também desdobramentos dialéticos dessa filosofia segundo dois outros filósofos, a saber, Karl Marx e Walter Benjamin. Ambos empreendem uma análise materialista dialética da realidade e, no caso de Benjamin, sem abrir mão de elementos teológicos.
Contribuição à Inclusão Escolar de Pessoas com Necessidades Especiais
Authors: Barroca Rodrigo
Published: August 2018

Baseado no conceito de Educação como responsabilidade de todos, pautamo-nos em rever nosso trabalho cotidiano dentro de uma Unidade Básica de Saúde com o fim de verificar em que medida ele desenvolve suas potencialidades a favor da inclusão escolar de pessoas com necessidades educacionais especiais. O trabalho se propõe a superar os obstáculos que surgem no âmbito da competência dos trabalhadores da Unidade Básica de Saúde. Internamente, foram revistos os casos de pacientes considerados como portadores de deficiência, visando sua classificação diagnóstica através do CID 10 para a geração de mais pormenorizada demanda educacional, o que é necessário para orientar as políticas de atendimento à essa parcela da população que todos sabemos ser expressiva no Brasil. Foram bem sucedidos os encontros entre profissionais da educação e da saúde visando trocas de experiências e vivências. Casos específicos de indivíduos que eram atendidos pela Escola e pela Unidade Básica de Saúde foram discutidos e algumas estratégias de atendimento foram planejadas. Daí, a confiança de que oportunizar este tipo de encontro de trocas de experiências profissionais podem contribuir para a aceleração do aprimoramento do atendimento escolar e de saúde, fundamentais ao ser humano, razão pala qual as humanidades ora se põem em diálogo.
Conceituações teóricas: esquerda e direita
Authors: Silva Gustavo Jorge
Published: August 2018

O artigo pretende propor conceitos teóricos mais objetivos aos dois termos do debate político dispostos em seu título: esquerda e direita. O artigo tratará do uso desses termos na política em geral e, especialmente, da forma como eles têm sido trazidos ao debate político no Brasil, observando seu uso em estudos acadêmicos e em propostas anteriores, de definição do que seria esquerda e direita política. Feito isso, a nova proposta de definição será apresentada juntamente com as diversas reflexões que ela traz consigo, inclusive uma revisão sobre o sentido dos termos revolução e golpe.
Natureza, razão e sentimento: a paisagem oitocentista brasileira em Viagem pelo Brasil, de Spix e Martius
Authors: Carvalho Ana Paula
Published: August 2018

Este trabalho visa realizar, através da obra Viagem pelo Brasil: 1817-1820, de Spix e Martius, uma análise sobre estes viajantes do século XIX. Ainda imbuídos do espírito iluminista, estes naturalistas buscavam descrever na sua totalidade o que viam. A natureza neste relato é analisada como fonte de riquezas científicas e econômicas, mas se estabelece também uma afinidade afetiva, típica do Naturgefühl. Este fato, juntamente com a influência que Humboldt teve nos jovens naturalistas, ratifica como a dimensão romântica presente no relato evidencia a intenção dos autores em ligar a ciência à poesia. O estilo científico e poético inaugurado por Humboldt nasce do anseio de alcançar a compreensão total da natureza. Para estes viajantes de inspiração romântica a potência e a grandiosidade do mundo natural só conseguiria ser compreendida através da comunhão entre a ciência e a estética.
Limites e possibilidades da educação formal: um debate entre Paulo Freire e Ivan Illich
Authors: Estimado Roberta Baessa , Santos João Luís Lemos de Paula
Published: August 2018

Neste artigo, discutiremos a dimensão institucional da crise da educação a partir de dois autores: Ivan Illich e Paulo Freire. Tendo como base o registro de um debate realizado entre eles e algumas de suas principais publicações das décadas de 1960 e 1970, analisaremos suas formulações e críticas acerca do modelo escolar e da institucionalização educacional. Depois dessa primeira aproximação, buscaremos possíveis relações de convergência e divergência entre Illich e Freire. Por fim, inserindo-os no quadro mais geral de debates sobre a crise da educação – desde o século XX até mais recentemente –, refletiremos sobre a atualidade das contribuições desses dois pensadores e os limites e as possibilidades da educação formal.
A música em sua contemporaneidade digital: os desafios da construção de uma memória
Authors: Piotto Gabriel de Oliveira
Published: August 2018

Com a rápida evolução digital apresentada nos últimos doze anos, a maneira de arquivar, escutar, produzir e compartilhar música foi substancialmente alterada. Diversos fatores passaram, porém, a interferir substancialmente na dinâmica interna de funcionamento e lógica do próprio meio digital. Analisar como se dão essas novas práticas mostra-se como um exercício de compreender como esse novo meio engendra e preserva a memória musical, suscitando, também, necessidades de uma nova postura metodológica e discursiva frente a essas novas problemáticas.
Mulher-sujeito, mulher-poema: a imagem como configuração do feminino na poesia de Ana Paula Tavares
Authors: Carreira Nara Lasevicius
Published: August 2018

Este breve estudo da lírica da poetisa angolana Ana Paula Tavares busca articular seu lugar de fala com as especificidades de uma poesia escrita por uma mulher que se coloca como tal. Para pensar tão complexa obra, escolhi um poema de cada livro da autora e o exercício interpretativo será feito, sobretudo, a partir da configuração da imagem poética e seus desdobramentos, tendo em vista a questão da mulher constituída como sujeito pleno.
Arte e conhecimento: autonomização da obra de arte e verdade estética
Authors: Catalani Felipe
Published: August 2018

O presente artigo pretende esboçar a relação entre processo histórico e formação da estética enquanto forma de saber, isto é, como historicamente a arte se vincula à verdade na tradição dialética, tendo em vista principalmente as formulações de Kant, Hegel e a releitura materialista de Adorno. O diagnóstico de Peter Bürger a respeito da separação da arte da práxis vital é um ponto de partida para conceituar aquilo que veio a ser conhecido como “autonomia da arte”, condição histórica fundamental para o surgimento do tipo de reflexão estética que será aqui abordada.
O caso das creches e o Poder Judiciário: uma questão de justiças
Authors: Santos Maike Wile dos , Vieira Yan Villela
Published: August 2018

Este artigo pretende tratar, de forma simplificada e sintetizada, da distinção entre justiça distributiva e justiça comutativa no raciocínio jurídico. Também pretende apontar alguns dos problemas que a aplicação equivocada desses conceitos pode causar. Para isso, foi utilizado um caso judicial paradigmático, que permite a análise de como o Poder Judiciário lidou com uma questão envolvendo um bem comum. O tema julgado se insere na área dos direitos fundamentais, enquanto esse artigo pretende uma aplicação da teoria geral do direito e filosofia moral, relacionando estas duas disciplinas.
Deleuze e a desformatação da escola
Authors: Teza Rogério de Souza
Published: August 2018

Este artigo trata de um assunto cada vez mais presente no debate acadêmico, quer na filosofia, falando-se sobre a obra de Deleuze, quer na pedagogia, que é a superação da padronização no ato do pensar. Há, na filosofia, criação de novos conceitos que são, per se, superadores dos modelos do pensamento ordinário, segundo Deleuze. Seguindo os passos desse original filósofo, buscamos propor uma nova imagem do pensamento a se usar na escola que, em vez da repetição, almeja chegar ao novo.
“Precisamos resistir, resistir! Eu preciso cantar”: Terra em Transe e seu contexto histórico
Authors: Mendonça Joabe França
Published: August 2018

Glauber Rocha se destacou no cenário cinematográfico participando do movimento Cinema Novo. Desde então, o cinema brasileiro produziu milhares de filmes, porém esse diretor continua chamando a atenção de espectadores e estudiosos de diversos campos. Foi a partir de experiências com o filme Terra em Transe, em pleno século XXI, que começamos a deslindar o papel que a produção ocupou em nossa história, em aspectos tanto políticos como estéticos e técnicos. Portanto, neste artigo, analisaremos o filme a partir de uma perspectiva histórica.
A política imperial em Quincas Borba: um diálogo entre a história e a literatura
Authors: Silva Laila Correa e
Published: August 2018

Desenvolve-se uma breve análise histórica do romance-folhetim de Machado de Assis Quincas Borba, publicado pela revista feminina A Estação entre 1886 e 1891, enfatizando as interlocuções sociais entre a obra machadiana e os debates parlamentares do final da década de 1860 e meados da década de 1880. Com isso, mostra-se que a política imperial e os impasses da Coroa para a promoção da reforma da escravidão são o centro de significação da narrativa de Quincas.
O uso comercial do conhecimento tradicional: a venda de “fetiches” bateke à expedição de Frederick Starr em Leopoldville (1905)
Authors: Oliveira Paulo Roberto Marques de
Published: August 2018

Este artigo busca compreender alguns aspectos da comercialização de “fetiches” entre os Bateke e a expedição de Frederick Starr na estação de Leopoldville no ano de 1905, utilizando como fontes dois dos diários de campo redigidos por Starr. Por meio de uma leitura crítica deles, foi possível entender as intenções que se colocaram durante o momento da compra e venda dos “fetiches”. Essas intenções provinham tanto do antropólogo estadunidense quanto dos Bateke, que decidiram por vontade própria vender artefatos de sua cultura de origem. Empregando a perspectiva da história social, foi possível devolver a historicidade às referidas relações comerciais e constatar que, em grande parte delas, os centro-africanos conseguiram tirar vantagens sobre Frederick Starr e sua expedição.
Poemas Centro-oestinos, Kalungarias e sobre os Povos da Terra
Authors: Marques Georgia
Published: August 2018

O objetivo é apresentar poemas centro-oestinos escritos pela poética da GeoPoesia, que, com sua escrita da Terra, descreve em fotos e geo-grafias experiências verdes e ricas tais quais as montanhas de Minas Gerais, que desenham corpos negros e dourados como os que se banham nas águas quentes da Bahia, e gelados como os pés que tocam as mais profundas águas dos rios do estado de Goiás. Há, nessa poesia, relatos da vida pública envolta pelas Asas da Capital Federal que não tem mar, mas sobrevive em lagos e lados a céu aberto, mimeticamente pincelados pelas poeiras do Cerrado, do tempo e do vento, da memória viva composta por formas, cores e expressões arquitetônicas: símbolos e ideais que marcam a vida de todo o povo e fazem história nos conflitos burocráticos e civis sobre este território.
Duration Perception Versus Perception Duration: A Proposed Model for the Consciously Experienced Moment
Authors: Kent Lachlan
Published: August 2018

Duration perception is not the same as perception duration. Time is an object of perception in its own right and is qualitatively different to exteroceptive or interoceptive perception of concrete objects or sensations originating within the self. In reviewing evidence for and against the experienced moment, White (2017, Psychol. Bull., 143, 735–756) proposed a model of global integration of information dense envelopes of integration. This is a valuable addition to the literature because it supposes that, like Tononi’s (2004, BMC Neurosci., 5, 42) Integrated Information Theory, consciousness is an integral step above perception of objects or the self. Consciousness includes the perception of abstract contents such as time, space, and magnitude, as well as post-perceptual contents drawn from memory. The present review takes this logic a step further and sketches a potential neurobiological pathway through the salience, default mode, and central executive networks that culminates in a candidate model of how duration perception and consciousness arises. Global integration is viewed as a process of Bayesian Prediction Error Minimisation according to a model put forward by Hohwy, Paton and Palmer (2016, Phenomenol. Cogn. Sci., 15, 315–335) called ‘distrusting the present’. The proposed model also expresses global integration as an intermediate stage between perception and memory that spans an approximate one second duration, an analogue of Wittmann’s (2011, Front. Integr. Neurosci., 5, 66) experienced moment.
Echinostelium novozhilovii (Echinosteliaceae, Myxomycetes), a new species from Northern Asia
Authors: VLASENKO ANASTASIA VLADIMIROVNA , FILIPPOVA NINA V. , VLASENKO VYACHESLAV ALEKSANDROVICH
Published: August 2018

A new Echinostelium novozhilovii species from Northern Asia is described and illustrated. The species was collected in the Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Okrug-Yugra, Russia. This new species clearly differs from the previously known species by several morphological characters. Its sporocarps have very large dimensions of 700–2500 µm tall, which exceed the dimensions of E. minutum (up to 500 µm tall). Its spores are the biggest among all known species of the Echinostelium genus with 20–25(30) µm in diameter. Its columella consists of several spore-like bodies. We present a scanning electron micrograph study of E. novozhilovii and an updated identification key for species of the Echinostelium genus worldwide, which currently includes 15 taxa. Holotype specimen of E. novozhilovii is deposited in NSK. It is the first new species for the Echinostelium genus since 1997.
Oral Metolazone Versus Intravenous Chlorothiazide as an Adjunct to Loop Diuretics for Diuresis in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction
Authors: Bohn Brian C. , Hadgu Rim M. , Pope Hannah E. , Shuster Jerrica E.
Published: August 2018

Background: Thiazide diuretics are often utilized to overcome loop diuretic resistance when treating acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). In addition to a large cost advantage, several pharmacokinetic advantages exist when administering oral metolazone (MTZ) compared with intravenous (IV) chlorothiazide (CTZ), yet many providers are reluctant to utilize an oral formulation to treat ADHF. The purpose of this study was to compare the increase in 24-hour total urine output (UOP) after adding MTZ or CTZ to IV loop diuretics (LD) in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Methods and Results: From September 2013 to August 2016, 1002 patients admitted for ADHF received either MTZ or CTZ in addition to LD. Patients were excluded for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) (n = 469), <24-hour LD or UOP data prior to drug initiation (n = 129), or low dose MTZ/CTZ (n = 91). A total of 168 patients were included with 64% receiving CTZ. No significant difference was observed between the increase in 24-hour total UOP after MTZ or CTZ initiation (1458 [514, 2401] mL vs 1820 [890, 2750] mL, P = .251). Conclusions: Both MTZ and CTZ similarly increased UOP when utilized as an adjunct to IV LD. These results suggest that while thiazide agents can substantially increase UOP in ADHF patients with HFrEF, MTZ and CTZ have comparable effects.