bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In SituDetection of Trace Furfural in Aqueous Solution Based on Au Nanoparticle/Au Film Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Qi Wei , Chen Weigen , Wan Fu , Zou Jingxin , Gu Zhaoliang
Published: January 2016

Furfural is an important chemical solvent and intermediate. Sensitive detection of this compound has attracted great interest in various fields. Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a highly sensitive method for material detection because of its optical enhancement effect of plasmonic nanostructures. This study presents a simple and versatile method to synthesize a SERS substrate, where polyaminothiophenol (PATP) was used to realize the stable combination of Au nanoparticles (AuNPs) and Au film via self-assembly. The near-field electric field distribution was calculated using the finite difference time domain (FDTD) simulation to determine the parameters responsible for electric field enhancement. The simulation results show that SERS enhanced factors are sensitive to interparticle spacing and materials for solid support but insensitive to particle size. Moreover, the experimental results show that the optimized substrates with the highest Raman activity were formed by six layers of 60 nm AuNPs decorated on a 30 nm thick Au film, thereby validating the simulation results. The SERS factor of the optimal substrates is approximately 5.57 × 103, and thein situdetection limit is 4.8 ppm. The 3D Raman spectra, relative standard deviation values for major peaks, and changes in signal intensity with time show the good reproducibility and stability of the substrates.
Effects of Geometrical Clearances, Supports Friction, and Wear Rings on Hydraulic Actuators Bending Behavior
Authors: Baragetti Sergio , Villa Francesco
Published: January 2016

Hydraulic actuators are commonly adopted in machines and structures to provide translating forces with significant magnitudes. Although their application dates back to the industrial revolution, their bending behavior under compression is typically addressed by simple Euler’s instability analysis on the rod, neglecting effects such as the cylinder inertia and stiffness, the presence of contact elements in the cylinder-rod junction and on the piston, geometrical misalignments and imperfections, and friction moments at the support. Such simplifications lead to unjustified reduced critical load calculations on the component. In the present paper, a complete mathematical formulation, which accounts for such effects, is presented and validated against experimental data. A numerical sensitivity analysis is conducted, to assess the contributions of initial rectilinear imperfections, wear rings stiffness and dimension, and supports friction on the actuator’s limit buckling load and bending behavior under compression. Results are presented, including the effect of the cited parameters on the buckling load, providing a reliable tool for the mechanical designer. In particular, an optimum position for the wear ring distance is found. Moreover, increased wear ring stiffness and reduced imperfections increase the buckling load and reduce the bending stresses before the critical load.
Geodesic Distance Algorithm for Extracting the Ascending Aorta from 3D CT Images
Authors: Jang Yeonggul , Jung Ho Yub , Hong Youngtaek , Cho Iksung , Shim Hackjoon , Chang Hyuk-Jae
Published: January 2016

This paper presents a method for the automatic 3D segmentation of the ascending aorta from coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). The segmentation is performed in three steps. First, the initial seed points are selected by minimizing a newly proposed energy function across the Hough circles. Second, the ascending aorta is segmented by geodesic distance transformation. Third, the seed points are effectively transferred through the next axial slice by a novel transfer function. Experiments are performed using a database composed of 10 patients’ CCTA images. For the experiment, the ground truths are annotated manually on the axial image slices by a medical expert. A comparative evaluation with state-of-the-art commercial aorta segmentation algorithms shows that our approach is computationally more efficient and accurate under the DSC (Dice Similarity Coefficient) measurements.
Epithelial Electrolyte Transport Physiology and the Gasotransmitter Hydrogen Sulfide
Authors: Pouokam Ervice , Althaus Mike
Published: January 2016

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a well‐known environmental chemical threat with an unpleasant smell of rotten eggs. Aside from the established toxic effects of high‐dose H2S, research over the past decade revealed that cells endogenously produce small amounts of H2S with physiological functions. H2S has therefore been classified as a “gasotransmitter.” A major challenge for cells and tissues is the maintenance of low physiological concentrations of H2S in order to prevent potential toxicity. Epithelia of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tract are especially faced with this problem, since these barriers are predominantly exposed to exogenous H2S from environmental sources or sulfur‐metabolising microbiota. In this paper, we review the cellular mechanisms by which epithelial cells maintain physiological, endogenous H2S concentrations. Furthermore, we suggest a concept by which epithelia use their electrolyte and liquid transport machinery as defence mechanisms in order to eliminate exogenous sources for potentially harmful H2S concentrations.
Pupil Dilation with Intracameral Epinephrine Hydrochloride during Phacoemulsification and Intraocular Lens Implantation
Authors: Yu A-Yong , Guo Hua , Wang Qin-Mei , Bao Fang-Jun , Huang Jing-Hai
Published: January 2016

Objective. To investigate mydriatic effect of intracamerally injected epinephrine hydrochloride during phacoemulsification and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation.Methods. Eighteen cataract patients for bilateral phacoemulsification were enrolled. To dilate pupil, one eye was randomly selected to receive intracamerally 1 mL epinephrine hydrochloride 0.001% for 1 minute after corneal incision (intracameral group), and the contralateral eye received 3 drops of compound tropicamide 0.5% and phenylephrine 0.5% at 5-minute intervals 30 minutes before surgery (topical group). Pupil diameters were measured before corneal incision, before ophthalmic viscoelastic device (OVD) injection, after OVD injection, before IOL implantation, and at the end of surgery.Results. At each time point, the mean pupil diameter in the intracameral group was2.20±0.08,5.09±0.20,6.76±0.19,6.48±0.18, and5.97±0.24 mm, respectively, and in the topical group it was7.98±0.15,7.98±0.15,8.53±0.14,8.27±0.16, and7.93±0.20 mm, respectively. The topical group consistently had larger mydriatic effects than the intracameral group (P<0.05). The onset of mydriatic effect was rapid in the intracameral group. There was no difference in surgical performance or other parameters between groups.Conclusions. Intracameral epinephrine hydrochloride appears to be an alternative to the mydriatic modalities for phacoemulsification and IOL implantation. In comparison with topical mydriatics, intracameral epinephrine hydrochloride offers easier preoperative preparation, more rapid pupil dilation, and comparable surgical performance.
Sparsity Preserving Discriminant Projections with Applications to Face Recognition
Authors: Ren Yingchun , Wang Zhicheng , Chen Yufei , Zhao Weidong
Published: January 2016

Dimensionality reduction is extremely important for understanding the intrinsic structure hidden in high-dimensional data. In recent years, sparse representation models have been widely used in dimensionality reduction. In this paper, a novel supervised learning method, called Sparsity Preserving Discriminant Projections (SPDP), is proposed. SPDP, which attempts to preserve the sparse representation structure of the data and maximize the between-class separability simultaneously, can be regarded as a combiner of manifold learning and sparse representation. Specifically, SPDP first creates a concatenated dictionary by classwise PCA decompositions and learns the sparse representation structure of each sample under the constructed dictionary using the least square method. Secondly, a local between-class separability function is defined to characterize the scatter of the samples in the different submanifolds. Then, SPDP integrates the learned sparse representation information with the local between-class relationship to construct a discriminant function. Finally, the proposed method is transformed into a generalized eigenvalue problem. Extensive experimental results on several popular face databases demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Treatment of Copper Contaminated Municipal Wastewater by Using UASB Reactor and Sand-Chemically Carbonized Rubber Wood Sawdust Column
Authors: Biswas Swarup , Mishra Umesh
Published: January 2016

The performance of a laboratory scale upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor and its posttreatment unit of sand-chemically carbonized rubber wood sawdust (CCRWSD) column system for the treatment of a metal contaminated municipal wastewater was investigated. Copper ion contaminated municipal wastewater was introduced to a laboratory scale UASB reactor and the effluent from UASB reactor was then followed by treatment with sand-CCRWSD column system. The laboratory scale UASB reactor and column system were observed for a period of 121 days. After the posttreatment column the average removal of monitoring parameters such as copper ion concentration (91.37%), biochemical oxygen demand (BODT) (93.98%), chemical oxygen demand (COD) (95.59%), total suspended solid (TSS) (95.98%), ammonia (80.68%), nitrite (79.71%), nitrate (71.16%), phosphorous (44.77%), total coliform (TC) (99.9%), and fecal coliform (FC) (99.9%) was measured. The characterization of the chemically carbonized rubber wood sawdust was done by scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray fluorescence spectrum (XRF), and Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Overall the system was found to be an efficient and economical process for the treatment of copper contaminated municipal wastewater.
Ulcerative Colitis and Its Association withSalmonellaSpecies
Authors: Tripathi Manish Kumar , Pratap Chandra Bhan , Dixit Vinod K. , Singh Tej Bali , Shukla Sunit K. , Jain Ashok K. , Nath Gopal
Published: January 2016

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is characterized by presence of ulcer in colon and bloody diarrhea. The present study explores the possibility of association betweenSalmonellaand ulcerative colitis. The present study comprised 59 cases of UC, 28 of colon cancer (CC), 127 of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and 190 of healthy control. The serological study was done by Widal and Indirect Haemagglutination Assay (IHA) for ViAb. Nested PCR was performed targetingfliC,staA,andstkGgene for Typhi and Paratyphi A, respectively. A total of 15.3% patients were positive forSalmonella“O” antigen among them 18.6% UC, 35.5% CC, 12.6% IBS, and 15.3% healthy control. A total of 36.9% patients were positive for “H” antigen including 39.0%, 57.1%, and 67.7% UC, CC, and IBS, respectively. About 1.73% show positive agglutination for AH antigen including 3.4%, 3.6%, and 1.6%, UC, CC, and IBS. A total of 10.89% were positive for ViAb. While 6.8% of UC, 10.7% of CC, 11.0% of IBS, and 12.1% of healthy subjects were positive for the antibody, the PCR positivity rates forSalmonellaspecific sequences were 79.7% in UC, 53.6% in CC, 66.1% in IBS, and 16.3% in healthy controls. The present study suggested that higher prevalence ofSalmonellamight play important role in etiopathogenesis of UC, IBS, and CC.
Breaking the Thumb Sucking Habit: When Compliance Is Essential
Authors: Tanaka Orlando , Oliveira Wagner , Galarza Melissa , Aoki Vanessa , Bertaiolli Bruno
Published: January 2016

The anterior open bite (AOB) and posterior cross bite are the most frequent malocclusions associated with prolonged sucking habits. This clinical case illustrates and discusses the use of a Haas-type palatal expander for stopping a thumb sucking habit. The improvement in closing the open bite with discontinuation of the habit was observed. But with the return of the habit and lack of cooperation, the relapse of anterior open bite occurred. Therefore, different approaches are necessary. The need of a multidisciplinary approach, consent, and cooperation are keys to a good prognosis.
Clinicoepidemiological Observational Study of Acquired Alopecias in Females Correlating with Anemia and Thyroid Function
Authors: Deo Kirti , Sharma Yugal K. , Wadhokar Meenakshi , Tyagi Neha
Published: January 2016

Alopecia can either be inherited or acquired; the latter, more common, can be diffuse, patterned, and focal, each having cicatricial and noncicatricial forms. This observational study of 135 cases in a semiurban Indian population aimed to detect the prevalence of various forms of acquired alopecia in females and correlate the same with levels of hemoglobin, serum ferritin, triiodothyronine, thyroxin, and thyroid stimulating hormone. The majority (84, 62.2%) of our cases of alopecia had telogen effluvium followed by female pattern alopecia (32, 23.7%). Stress (86, 63.7%), topical application of chemicals (72, 53.3%), systemic medications for concurrent illnesses (62, 5%), and pregnancy (14, 10.3%) were the common exacerbating factors. Neither low hemoglobin (<12 gm%, 73.4%) nor low serum ferritin (<12 μg/L, 6.7%) was found to be statistically significant. A majority (90, 90.9%) of 99 cases with anemia (hemoglobin levels of <12 gm%) had serum ferritin levels >12 μg/L. Though lack of vitamin B12 testing was a limitation of our study, its deficiency could be the probable cause of iron deficiency as the majority (58, 64.4%) of these cases, as indeed majority (89, 65.4%) of our study population, were vegetarians. Thyroid disorders (23, 17%, including 9 newly diagnosed) were not of significance statistically.
Downregulation of the Yes‐Associated Protein Is Associated with Extracellular Matrix Disorders in Ascending Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Li Haiyang , Jiang Wenjian , Ren Weihong , Guo Dong , Guo Jialong , Wang Xiaolong , Liu Yuyong , Lan Feng , Du Jie , Zhang Hongjia
Published: January 2016

Previous studies indicate that extracellular matrix (ECM) disorders lead to the apoptosis of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells (VSMCs), which impairs the aortic wall by reducing the generation of elastic fibers, and ultimately result in ascending aortic aneurysm. The critical role of the Yes‐associated protein (YAP) has been elucidated in cardiac/SMC proliferation during cardiovascular development. However, the association of YAP expression and extracellular matrix disorders in ascending aortic aneurysms is not clear. Here, we present for the first time that the downregulation of YAP in VSMCs is associated with ECM disorders of the media in ascending aortic aneurysms. We found that aortic ECM deteriorated with increased apoptotic VSMCs. Moreover, expression of YAP was dramatically reduced in the aortic walls of patients with ascending aortic aneurysms, while the normal aortic samples exhibited abundant YAP in the VSMCs. These results suggest that downregulation of YAP leads to apoptosis of VSMCs, which are essential for the homeostasis of the aortic wall. The resultant ECM disorders affect aortic structure and function and contribute to the development of ascending aortic aneurysms. In summary, through assessment of clinical samples, we revealed the association between downregulation of YAP in VSMCs and the development of ascending aortic aneurysms, providing new insight into the pathogenesis of this disease.
12 Weeks of Combined Endurance and Resistance Training Reduces Innate Markers of Inflammation in a Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Deckx Nathalie , Wens Inez , Nuyts Amber H. , Hens Niel , De Winter Benedicte Y. , Koppen Gudrun , Goossens Herman , Van Damme Pierre , Berneman Zwi N. , Eijnde Bert O. , Cools Nathalie
Published: January 2016

Previously, we reported that patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) demonstrate improved muscle strength, exercise tolerance, and lean tissue mass following a combined endurance and resistance exercise program. However, the effect of exercise on the underlying disease pathogenesis remains elusive. Since recent evidence supports a crucial role of dendritic cells (DC) in the pathogenesis of MS, we investigated the effect of a 12-week combined exercise program in MS patients on the number and function of DC. We demonstrate an increased number of plasmacytoid DC (pDC) following the exercise program. These pDC display an activated phenotype, as evidenced by increased numbers of circulating CD62L+and CD80+pDC. Interestingly, the number of CD80+pDC positively correlates with the presence of IL-10-producing regulatory type 1 cells (Tr1), an important cell type for maintaining peripheral tolerance to self-antigens. In addition, decreased production of the inflammatory mediators, TNF-αand MMP-9, upon Toll-like receptor (TLR) stimulation was found at the end of the exercise program. Overall, our findings suggest that the 12-week exercise program reduces the secretion of inflammatory mediators upon TLR stimulation and promotes the immunoregulatory function of circulating pDC, suggestive for a favorable impact of exercise on the underlying immunopathogenesis of MS.
TGF‐β and Hypoxia/Reoxygenation Promote Radioresistance of A549 Lung Cancer Cells through Activation of Nrf2 and EGFR
Authors: Lee Sae-lo-oom , Ryu Hwani , Son A-rang , Seo Bitna , Kim Jooyoung , Jung Seung-Youn , Song Jie-Young , Hwang Sang-Gu , Ahn Jiyeon
Published: January 2016

Although many studies have examined the roles of hypoxia and transforming growth factor‐ (TGF‐) β separately in the tumor microenvironment, the effects of simultaneous treatment with hypoxia/reoxygenation and TGF‐β on tumor malignancy are unclear. Here, we investigated the effects of redox signaling and oncogenes on cell proliferation and radioresistance in A549 human lung cancer cells in the presence of TGF‐β under hypoxia/reoxygenation conditions. Combined treatment with TGF‐β and hypoxia activated epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and nuclear factor (erythroid‐derived 2)‐like 2 (Nrf2), a redox‐sensitive transcription factor. Interestingly, Nrf2 knockdown suppressed the effects of combined treatment on EGFR phosphorylation. In addition, blockade of EGFR signaling also suppressed induction of Nrf2 following combined treatment with hypoxia and TGF‐β, indicating that the combined treatment induced positive crosstalk between Nrf2 and EGFR. TGF‐β and hypoxia/reoxygenation increased the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), while treatment with N‐acetyl‐l‐cysteine abolished the activation of Nrf2 and EGFR. Treatment with TGF‐β under hypoxic conditions increased the proliferation of A549 cells compared with that after vehicle treatment. Moreover, cells treated with the combined treatment exhibited resistance to ionizing radiation (IR), and knockdown of Nrf2 increased IR‐induced cell death under these conditions. Thus, taken together, our findings suggested that TGF‐β and hypoxia/reoxygenation promoted tumor progression and radioresistance of A549 cells through ROS‐mediated activation of Nrf2 and EGFR.
Activity of Proteolytic Enzymes and Level of Cystatin C in the Peripartum Period
Authors: Cyganek Anna , Wyczalkowska-Tomasik Aleksandra , Jarmuzek Patrycja , Grzechocinska Barbara , Jabiry-Zieniewicz Zoulikha , Paczek Leszek , Wielgos Miroslaw
Published: January 2016

Objectives. The aim of the study was to evaluate the activity of cathepsin B, collagenases, trypsin, and plasmin and concentration of cystatin C in serum of healthy pregnant women in peripartum period.Study Design. The study group included 45 women in uncomplicated pregnancies. Blood samples were collected in four time points. Enzyme activity was measured by spectrofluorometric method. The level of cystatin C was measured using immunonephelometric method.Results. Mean activity of cathepsin B and the level of serum cystatin C were significantly higher in the study group. Collagenase activity was significantly lower in the study group than the control group. No differences in collagenase, plasmin, and trypsin activity on each day of the peripartum period were found.Conclusion. High activity of cathepsin B and increased level of cystatin C are typical for women in late pregnancy. Those levels significantly decrease after delivery which can be associated with potential role of those markers in placental separation. The insignificant changes of cystatin C level in the peripartum period seem to exclude the possibility of using cystatin C as a marker for renal insufficiency in the peripartum period but additional research is necessary to investigate the matter further.
Hib Vaccines: Past, Present, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Zarei Adi Essam , Almehdar Hussein A. , Redwan Elrashdy M.
Published: January 2016

Haemophilus influenzaetype b (Hib) causes many severe diseases, including epiglottitis, pneumonia, sepsis, and meningitis. In developed countries, the annual incidence of meningitis caused by bacteria is approximately 5–10 cases per population of 100,000. The Hib conjugate vaccine is considered protective and safe. Adjuvants, molecules that can enhance and/or regulate the fundamental immunogenicity of an antigen, comprise a wide range of diverse compounds. While earlier developments of adjuvants created effective products, there is still a need to create new generations, rationally designed based on recent discoveries in immunology, mainly in innate immunity. Many factors may play a role in the immunogenicity of Hib conjugate vaccines, such as the polysaccharides and proteins carrier used in vaccine construction, as well as the method of conjugation. A Hib conjugate vaccine has been constructed via chemical synthesis of a Hib saccharide antigen. Two models of carbohydrate-protein conjugate have been established, the single ended model (terminal amination-single method) and cross-linked lattice matrix (dual amination method). Increased knowledge in the fields of immunology, molecular biology, glycobiology, glycoimmunology, and the biology of infectious microorganisms has led to a dramatic increase in vaccine efficacy.
Carbachol-Induced Reduction in the Activity of Adult Male Zebra Finch RA Projection Neurons
Authors: Meng Wei , Wang Song-Hua , Li Dong-Feng
Published: January 2016

Cholinergic mechanism is involved in motor behavior. In songbirds, the robust nucleus of the arcopallium (RA) is a song premotor nucleus in the pallium and receives cholinergic inputs from the basal forebrain. The activity of projection neurons in RA determines song motor behavior. Although many evidences suggest that cholinergic system is implicated in song production, the cholinergic modulation of RA is not clear until now. In the present study, the electrophysiological effects of carbachol, a nonselective cholinergic receptor agonist, were investigated on the RA projection neurons of adult male zebra finches through whole-cell patch-clamp techniques in vitro. Our results show that carbachol produced a significant decrease in the spontaneous and evoked action potential (AP) firing frequency of RA projection neurons, accompanying a hyperpolarization of the membrane potential, an increase in the evoked AP latency, afterhyperpolarization (AHP) peak amplitude, and AHP time to peak, and a decrease in the membrane input resistance, membrane time constant, and membrane capacitance. These results indicate that carbachol reduces the activity of RA projection neurons by hyperpolarizing the resting membrane potential and increasing the AHP and the membrane conductance, suggesting that the cholinergic modulation of RA may play an important role in song production.
Linear Integer Model for the Course Timetabling Problem of a Faculty in Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Pereira Valdecy , Gomes Costa Helder
Published: January 2016

This work presents a linear integer programming model that solves a timetabling problem of a faculty in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The model was designed to generate solutions that meet the preferences of the faculty’s managers, namely, allocating the maximum number of lecturers with highest academic title and minimising costs by merging courses with equivalent syllabuses. The integer linear model also finds solutions that meet lecturers’ scheduling preferences, thereby generating more practical and comfortable schedules for these professionals. Preferences were represented in the objective function, each with a specific weight. The model outperformed manual solutions in terms of response time and quality. The model was also able to demonstrate that lecturers’ scheduling preferences are actually conflicting goals. The model was approved by the faculty’s managers and has been used since the second semester of 2011.
Electroacupuncture Reduces Weight Gain Induced by Rosiglitazone through PPARγ and Leptin Receptor in CNS
Authors: Jing Xinyue , Ou Chen , Chen Hui , Wang Tianlin , Xu Bin , Lu Shengfeng , Zhu Bing-Mei
Published: January 2016

We investigate the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on protecting the weight gain side effect of rosiglitazone (RSG) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) rats and its possible mechanism in central nervous system (CNS). Our study showed that RSG (5 mg/kg) significantly increased the body weight and food intake of the T2DM rats. After six‐week treatment with RSG combined with EA, body weight, food intake, and the ratio of IWAT to body weight decreased significantly, whereas the ratio of BAT to body weight increased markedly. HE staining indicated that the T2DM‐RSG rats had increased size of adipocytes in their IWAT, but EA treatment reduced the size of adipocytes. EA effectively reduced the lipid contents without affecting the antidiabetic effect of RSG. Furthermore, we noticed that the expression of PPARγ gene in hypothalamus was reduced by EA, while the expressions of leptin receptor and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) were increased. Our results suggest that EA is an effective approach for inhibiting weight gain in T2DM rats treated by RSG. The possible mechanism might be through increased levels of leptin receptor and STAT3 and decreased PPARγ expression, by which food intake of the rats was reduced and RSG‐induced weight gain was inhibited.
Beneficial Effects of Physical Exercise on Functional Capacity and Skeletal Muscle Oxidative Stress in Rats with Aortic Stenosis‐Induced Heart Failure
Authors: Gomes Mariana Janini , Martinez Paula Felippe , Campos Dijon Henrique Salomé , Pagan Luana Urbano , Bonomo Camila , Lima Aline Regina Ruiz , Damatto Ricardo Luiz , Cezar Marcelo D. M. , Damatto Felipe Cezar , Rosa Camila Moreno , Garcia Camila Marchiolli , Reyes David Rafael Abreu , Fernandes Ana Angélica Henrique , Fernandes Denise Castro , Laurindo Francisco Rafael , Okoshi Katashi , Okoshi Marina Politi
Published: January 2016

Objective. We evaluated the influence of exercise on functional capacity, cardiac remodeling, and skeletal muscle oxidative stress, MAPK, and NF‐κB pathway in rats with aortic stenosis‐ (AS‐) induced heart failure (HF). Methods and Results. Eighteen weeks after AS induction, rats were assigned into sedentary control (C‐Sed), exercised control (C‐Ex), sedentary AS (AS‐Sed), and exercised AS (AS‐Ex) groups. Exercise was performed on treadmill for eight weeks. Statistical analyses were performed with Goodman and ANOVA or Mann‐Whitney. HF features frequency and mortality did not differ between AS groups. Exercise improved functional capacity, assessed by maximal exercise test on treadmill, without changing echocardiographic parameters. Soleus cross‐sectional areas did not differ between groups. Lipid hydroperoxide concentration was higher in AS‐Sed than C‐Sed and AS‐Ex. Activity of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase was changed in AS‐Sed and restored in AS‐Ex. NADPH oxidase activity and gene expression of its subunits did not differ between AS groups. Total ROS generation was lower in AS‐Ex than C‐Ex. Exercise modulated MAPK in AS‐Ex and did not change NF‐κB pathway proteins. Conclusion. Exercise improves functional capacity in rats with AS‐induced HF regardless of echocardiographic parameter changes. In soleus, exercise reduces oxidative stress, preserves antioxidant enzyme activity, and modulates MAPK expression.
Exact Solutions of Travelling Wave Model via Dynamical System Method
Authors: Wang Heng , Chen Longwei , Liu Hongjiang
Published: January 2016

By using the method of dynamical system, the exact travelling wave solutions of the coupled nonlinear Schrödinger-Boussinesq equations are studied. Based on this method, the bounded exact travelling wave solutions are obtained which contain solitary wave solutions and periodic travelling wave solutions. The solitary wave solutions and periodic travelling wave solutions are expressed by the hyperbolic functions and the Jacobian elliptic functions, respectively. The results show that the presented findings improve the related previous conclusions. Furthermore, the numerical simulations of the solitary wave solutions and the periodic travelling wave solutions are given to show the correctness of our results.
Possible Protective Effect of Diacerein on Doxorubicin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats
Authors: Refaie Marwa M. M. , Amin Entesar F. , El-Tahawy Nashwa F. , Abdelrahman Aly M.
Published: January 2016

Nephrotoxicity is one of the limiting factors for using doxorubicin (DOX). Interleukin 1 has major role in DOX-induced nephrotoxicity, so we investigated the effect of interleukin 1 receptor antagonist diacerein (DIA) on DOX-induced nephrotoxicity. DIA (25 and 50 mg/kg/day) was administered orally to rats for 15 days, in the presence or absence of nephrotoxicity induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of DOX (15 mg/kg) at the 11th day. We measured levels of serum urea, creatinine, renal reduced glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), total nitrites (NOx), catalase, and superoxide dismutase (SOD). In addition, caspase-3, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) expressions, and renal histopathology were assessed. Our results showed that DOX-induced nephrotoxicity was ameliorated or reduced by both doses of DIA, but diacerein high dose (DHD) showed more improvement than diacerein low dose (DLD). This protective effect was manifested by significant improvement in all measured parameters compared to DOX treated group by using DHD. DLD showed significant improvement of creatinine, MDA, NOx, GSH, histopathology, and immunohistochemical parameters compared to DOX treated group.
Mastermind-Like 3 Controls Proliferation and Differentiation in Neuroblastoma
Authors: Heynen Guus J.J.E. , Nevedomskaya Ekaterina , Palit Sander , Jagalur Basheer Noorjahan , Lieftink Cor , Schlicker Andreas , Zwart Wilbert , Bernards Rene , Bajpe Prashanth Kumar
Published: January 2016

Neuroblastoma cell lines can differentiate upon treatment with retinoic acid (RA), a finding that provided the basis for the clinical use of RA to treat neuroblastoma. However, resistance to RA is often observed, which limits its clinical utility. Using a gain-of-function genetic screen, we identified an unexpected link between RA signaling and mastermind-like 3 (MAML3), a known transcriptional coactivator for NOTCH. Our findings indicate that MAML3 expression leads to the loss of activation of a subset of RA target genes, which hampers RA-induced differentiation and promotes resistance to RA. The regulatory DNA elements of this subset of RA target genes show overlap in binding of MAML3 and the RA receptor, suggesting a direct role for MAML3 in the regulation of these genes. In addition, MAML3 has RA-independent functions, including the activation of IGF1R and downstream AKT signaling via upregulation of IGF2, resulting in increased proliferation. These results demonstrate an important mechanistic role for MAML3 in proliferation and RA-mediated differentiation.

Implications: MAML3 coordinates transcription regulation with receptor tyrosine kinase pathway activation, shedding new light on why this gene is mutated in multiple cancers. Mol Cancer Res; 14(5); 411–22. ©2016 AACR.
Regulatory T Cells from Colon Cancer Patients Inhibit Effector T-cell Migration through an Adenosine-Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Sundström Patrik , Stenstad Hanna , Langenes Veronica , Ahlmanner Filip , Theander Lisa , Ndah Tapuka Gordon , Fredin Kamilla , Börjesson Lars , Gustavsson Bengt , Bastid Jérémy , Quiding-Järbrink Marianne
Published: January 2016

T cell–mediated immunity is a major component of antitumor immunity. In order to be efficient, effector T cells must leave the circulation and enter into the tumor tissue. Regulatory T cells (Treg) from gastric cancer patients, but not from healthy volunteers, potently inhibit migration of conventional T cells through activated endothelium. In this study, we compared T cells from colon cancer patients and healthy donors to determine the mechanisms used by Tregs from cancer patients to inhibit conventional T-cell migration. Our results showed that circulating Tregs from cancer patients expressed high levels of CD39, an ectoenzyme mediating hydrolysis of ATP to AMP, as a rate-determining first step in the generation of immunosuppressive adenosine. Tumor-associated Tregs expressed even more CD39, and we therefore examined the importance of adenosine in Treg-mediated inhibition of T-cell transendothelial migration in vitro. Exogenous adenosine significantly reduced migration of conventional T cells from healthy volunteers, and blocking either adenosine receptors or CD39 enzymatic activity during transmigration restored the ability of conventional T cells from cancer patients to migrate. Adenosine did not directly affect T cells or endothelial cells, but reduced the ability of monocytes to activate the endothelium. Taken together, our results indicate that Treg-derived adenosine acts on monocytes and contributes to reduced transendothelial migration of effector T cells into tumors. This effect of Tregs is specific for cancer patients, and our results indicate that Tregs may affect not only T-cell effector functions but also their migration into tumors. Cancer Immunol Res; 4(3); 183–93. ©2016 AACR.
Comprehensive Immune Profiling of Lung Adenocarcinomas Reveals Four Immunosubtypes with Plasma Cell Subtype a Negative Indicator
Authors: Kurebayashi Yutaka , Emoto Katsura , Hayashi Yuichiro , Kamiyama Ikuo , Ohtsuka Takashi , Asamura Hisao , Sakamoto Michiie
Published: January 2016

Neoplastic cancer cells and cancer stroma (including infiltrating immune cells) determine the biology and prognosis of cancer. Various types of adaptive and innate immune cells are known to infiltrate the cancer stroma. However, the patterns and spatial distribution of immune cell infiltration as well as its association with tumor histology remain poorly understood. To address these issues, we comprehensively analyzed the infiltrating immune cells present in lung adenocarcinoma. The principal types of both adaptive and innate infiltrating immune cells were immunohistochemically evaluated in the predominant histologic components of 111 lung adenocarcinomas. The same analysis was also carried out on 143 samples of histologic subtypes making up more than 20% of tumors. As a result, plasma cells and B cells with interfollicular distribution were almost exclusively observed in invasive histologic subtypes, while an increased number of mast cells were observed in noninvasive histologic subtypes. Cluster analysis revealed four distinct immunosubtypes (CD8, mast cell, macrophage/dendritic cell, and plasma cell subtypes) based on the infiltrating immune cell profiles. These immunosubtypes correlated with histologic subtypes, and univariate and multivariate analyses identified the plasma cell subtype as an independent negative prognostic factor. These plasma cells may be one of the major producers of the immunosuppressive cytokine IL35 in cancer stroma. Cancer Immunol Res; 4(3); 234–47. ©2016 AACR.
‘Living with Aphasia the Best Way I Can': A Feasibility Study Exploring Solution-Focused Brief Therapy for People with Aphasia
Authors: Northcott Sarah , Burns Kidge , Simpson Alan , Hilari Katerina
Published: January 2016

Objective: Post-stroke aphasia can profoundly affect a person's social and emotional well-being. This study explored the feasibility of solution-focused brief therapy as an accessible intervention and investigated its impact on participants' psychosocial well-being. Participants and Methods: This is a small-scale repeated-measures feasibility study. Participants received between 3 and 5 therapy sessions. They were assessed on psychosocial outcome measures before and after therapy and took part in post-therapy in-depth qualitative interviews. Three men and 2 women with chronic aphasia took part (age range: 40s-70s). Results: Participants found the therapy acceptable, and it was possible to adapt the approach so as to be communicatively accessible. Quantitative assessments showed encouraging trends in improved mood [pre-therapy General Health Questionnaire 12-item version (GHQ-12): mean (SD): 4.80 (4.60), median: 6; post-therapy GHQ-12: mean (SD): 2.00 (2.55), median: 1] and improved communicative participation [pre-therapy Communicative Participation Item Bank (CPIB): mean (SD): 7.80 (5.76), median: 7; post-therapy CPIB: mean (SD): 12.20 (4.44), median: 14]. Measures of social network and connectedness, however, remained stable. Themes emerging from the qualitative analysis included changes to mood, communicative participation, mobility, and everyday activities. Conclusions: This small-scale study suggests that solution-focused brief therapy is a promising approach to helping people with aphasia build positive change in their lives.
Decrease of Hyperintense Vessels on Fluid-Attenuated Inversion Recovery Predicts Good Outcome in t-PA Patients
Authors: Sakuta Kenichi , Saji Naoki , Aoki Junya , Sakamoto Yuki , Shibazaki Kensaku , Iguchi Yasuyuki , Kimura Kazumi
Published: January 2016

Background and Purpose: Hyperintense vessels (HV) detected on fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) indicate cerebral hypoperfusion. However, the clinical meaning of changes in HV is yet to be clarified. Here, we investigated serial changes to HV in patients with AIS who received tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) therapy. Methods: We studied t-PA patients presenting with HV on FLAIR in the middle cerebral artery territory. Patients underwent brain MRI 1 h before and after t-PA infusion. HV scores (range 1-7) were evaluated according to Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score territories, and then by subtracting HV scores at 1 h after t-PA infusion from those on admission, with a result of >1 defined as decrease in HV score (DHV). Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the presence or absence of DHV. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify variables independently associated with good outcome (modified Rankin Scale score at 90 days after stroke onset of 0-1). Results: A total of 118 consecutive patients were enrolled (73 men; mean age 76 ± 9.7; median initial National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) 13; median initial HV score 5), of whom 52 (44%) had DHV. Patients with DHV showed a significantly lower NIHSS time course (p < 0.001) and significantly smaller infarct volume time course (p < 0.001) compared to those without DHV. Multivariate analysis showed that DHV was independently associated with good outcome (OR 3.89; 95% CI 1.55-9.77; p < 0.01). The sensitivity and specificity of DHV for good outcome were 70 and 68%, respectively. Conclusion: A DHV on FLAIR predicts good outcome in patients receiving t-PA.
Dietary Acid Load and Incident Chronic Kidney Disease: Results from the ARIC Study
Authors: Rebholz Casey M. , Coresh Josef , Grams Morgan E. , Steffen Lyn M. , Anderson Cheryl A.M. , Appel Lawrence J. , Crews Deidra C.
Published: January 2016

Background: Higher dietary acid load can result in metabolic acidosis and is associated with faster kidney disease progression in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, the relationship between dietary acid load and incident CKD has not been evaluated. Methods: We conducted prospective analyses of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities study participants without CKD at baseline (1987-1989, n = 15,055). Dietary acid load was estimated using the equation for potential renal acid load by Remer and Manz, incorporating dietary intake data from a food frequency questionnaire. Incident CKD was assessed from baseline through 2010 and defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 ml/min/1.73 m2 accompanied by 25% eGFR decline, CKD-related hospitalization or death or end-stage renal disease identified by linkage to the US Renal Data System registry. Results: In the overall study population, 55% were female, 26% were African-American and mean age at baseline was 54 years. During a median follow-up of 21 years, there were 2,351 (15.6%) incident CKD cases. After adjusting for demographics (age, sex, race-center), established risk factors (diabetes status, hypertension status, overweight/obese status, smoking status, education level, physical activity), caloric intake and baseline eGFR, higher dietary acid load were associated with higher risk of incident CKD (hazard ratio [HR] for quartile 4 vs. 1: 1.13, 95% CI 1.01-1.28, p for trend = 0.02; HR per interquartile range increase: 1.06, 95% CI 1.00-1.11, p = 0.04). Conclusion: Dietary acid load is associated with incident CKD in a population-based sample. These data suggest a potential avenue for CKD risk reduction through diet.
Oxaliplatin-Based Chemotherapy in Advanced Neuroendocrine Tumors: Clinical Outcomes and Preliminary Correlation with Biological Factors
Authors: Spada Francesca , Antonuzzo Lorenzo , Marconcini Riccardo , Radice Davide , Antonuzzo Andrea , Ricci Sergio , Di Costanzo Francesco , Fontana Annalisa , Gelsomino Fabio , Luppi Gabriele , Nobili Elisabetta , Galdy Salvatore , Cella Chiara Alessandra , Sonzogni Angelica , Pisa Eleonora , Barberis Massimo , Fazio Nicola
Published: January 2016

Purpose: The role of chemotherapy in low-/intermediate-grade neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) is still debated. We present the results of an Italian multicenter retrospective study evaluating activity and toxicity of oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy in patients with advanced NETs. Methods: Clinical records from 5 referral centers were reviewed. Disease control rate (DCR) corresponding to PR + SD (partial response + stable disease) at 6 months, progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS) and toxicity were calculated. Ki67 labeling index, grade of differentiation and excision- repair-cross-complementing group 1 (ERCC-1) were analyzed in tissue tumor samples. Results: Seventy-eight patients entered the study. Primary sites were: pancreas in 46, gastrointestinal in 24, lung in 19 and unknown in 10% of patients. The vast majority were G2 (2010 WHO classification). Eighty-six percent of the patients were metastatic, and 87% were pretreated and progressive to previous therapies. Sixty-five percent of the patients received capecitabine/oxaliplatin (CAPOX), 6% gemcitabine/oxaliplatin (GEMOX), and 29% leucovorin/fluorouracil/oxaliplatin (FOLFOX-6). PR occurred in 26% of the patients, half of them with pancreatic NETs, and SD in 54%. With a median follow-up of 21 months, the median PFS and OS were 8 and 32 months with 70 and 45 events, respectively. The most frequent G3 toxicities were neurological and gastrointestinal. ERCC-1 immunohistochemical overexpression was positive in 4/28 evaluated samples, with no significant correlation with clinical outcome. Conclusion: This analysis suggests that oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy can be active with a manageable safety profile in advanced NETs irrespective of the primary sites and tumor grade. The 80% DCR and 8-month PFS could justify a prospective study in NETs with intermediate biological characteristics, especially with pancreatic primary tumors.
À luz da linguagem – um olhar histórico sobre as funções da iluminação cênica
Authors: Simões Cibele Forjaz
Published: January 2016

Este artigo busca relacionar alguns dos temas, movimentos artísticos e concepções específicas de iluminação cênica e encenação, a partir de uma leitura transversal, em busca de uma articulação que nos permita conceber um percurso de construção da linguagem da iluminação cênica como escritura do visível.
Corpos dilatados: relações contemporâneas brasileiras entre cena e tecnologias
Authors: Leite Marcelo Denny
Published: January 2016

Qual é o papel do corpo nas artes contemporâneas? Certamente esse está na lista dos principais questionamentos da estética. As questões que envolvem o corpo e aquelas que de certa forma o orbitam, como sexualidade, gênero, posse, limites e poder, configuram uma constelação de temas e subdivisões que perpassam o corpo e seus limites, até questões em que a tecnologia cruza por matizes ainda mais complexos, como o cyber body e o corpo pós-humano. É claro que as artes cênicas, em especial a performance e a dança, vão investigar de forma ostensiva as relações do corpo com a tecnologia, campo que na contemporaneidade tomou proporções inumeráveis. Todavia, neste artigo tentaremos apontar algumas relações possíveis entre as tecnologias da imagem e sua relação com o corpo dos atuantes, sejam atores, dançarinos ou performers. Tais relações podem mudar as expressões mais performativas em conjunto com as tecnologias que permitem um diálogo visando ampliar aproximações entre corpo/cena e também corpo/tecnologia.
O olhar no limite da perpepção
Authors: Machado Vinicius Torres
Published: January 2016

O artigo formula a ideia de que a variação de intensidades a partir da
luz pode levar o receptor a experimentar uma sensação de suspensão
do tempo cronológico na fruição de uma obra teatral.
O teatro de Christiane Jatahy: formação intelectual e pesquisa artística
Authors: Da Costa José
Published: January 2016

Este artigo aborda, a princípio, alguns aspectos da formação e da trajetória artística da dramaturga e encenadora Christiane Jatahy, a partir dos anos 1990. Mas o objetivo mais específico deste texto é apresentar uma análise e uma reflexão crítica sobre o espetáculo E se elas fossem para Moscou?, que a diretora estreou no Rio de Janeiro em 2014 e já apresentou em diferentes estados e em vários países, principalmente da Europa. 
Uma teia sobre o cotidiano: entrevista
Authors: Da Costa José
Published: January 2016

Entrevista concedida por Christiane Jatahy a José Da Costa, na casa e estúdio da Diretora, no Rio de Janeiro, em 19 de dezembro de 2014. A entrevista gravada foi transcrita por Graziela Laureano.
Repetição e diferença: dispositivos e mediações no teatro de Christiane Jatahy
Authors: Small Daniele Avila
Published: January 2016

O artigo aborda o trabalho da encenadora brasileira Christiane Jatahy
em cinco espetáculos (quatro peças de teatro e uma ópera), com o propósito
de analisar as encenações a partir das ideias de sistema, dispositivo,
mediação e repetição. Através da análise de suas operações
dramatúrgicas, procuramos identificar procedimentos adotados com
o objetivo de desestabilizar a repetição no teatro, como a criação de
contradispositivos, o trabalho com os sistemas para a criação de uma
dramaturgia cênica e atorial, além da relação entre teatro e cinema.
Do corpo e da tela: especificidade e hibridismo na zona fronteiriça do teatro com o cinema
Authors: Romagnolli Luciana Eastwood
Published: January 2016

Este artigo analisa a obra da encenadora Christiane Jatahy como propositora de uma pesquisa radical sobre as relações entre teatro e cinema, por meio da observação crítica de dois espetáculos – Julia(2011) e E se elas fossem para Moscou? (2014) –, considerando o jogo realizado com as especificidades de cada uma dessas artes e suas artesanias próprias, as experiências do convívio e do tecnovívio, assim como as zonas de hibridismo entre elas, com base em conceituações de Erika Fischer-Lichte, Jorge Dubatti e Jean-Louis Comolli.