bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis in Tunisia: A Retrospective Study over 11 Years
Authors: Ben Achour Nedia , Rebai Ibtihel , Raddadi Sarra , Benrhouma Hanene , Klaa Hedia , Rouissi Aida , Kraoua Ichraf , Ben Youssef Turki Ilhem
Published: November 2017

Introduction. Pediatric multiple sclerosis (pMS) is a rare demyelinating disorder with an onset before the age of 18 years. In this study, we aimed to investigate the characteristics of pMS in Tunisian children. Patients and Methods. We conducted a retrospective study over 11 years (2005–2016) including all patients diagnosed with pMS according to the International Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis Study Group (IPMSSG) criteria of 2012 and followed up in a tertiary care research center. Epidemiological, clinical, neuroimaging, laboratory, and therapeutic data were collected and analyzed. Results. There were 21 patients. The male-female ratio was 1 : 3. Mean age at onset was 11 years (range: 3–17 years). Three patients had type 1 diabetes. Polyfocal presentation was preponderant (81%) with motor dysfunction in 57% of patients. Paroxysmal dystonia was noticed in 24%. All patients were diagnosed with relapsing-remitting form. Interferon beta was prescribed in 80% with a reduction of annual relapse rate. Conclusion. The annual incidence of pMS in Tunisian children aged below 18 years could be estimated as 0.05 per 100,000. Singular features in our cohort were the frequent association with type 1 diabetes and the increased occurrence of dystonia. Greater awareness of pMS may be helpful to improve management strategies of children and their families.
Recurrent Occipital Seizures with Transient MRI Changes
Authors: Kurukumbi Mohankumar , Jacobs Allison
Published: November 2017

Peri-ictal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings following seizure activity are a recognized phenomenon that is not well understood (Cole, 2004). Transient changes are not usually expected to be present in postictal MRI studies because of their rarity. Here, we present a unique case of peri-ictal MRI findings located in the occipital lobe, present in a 34-year-old female with recurrent occipital seizures occurring twice in four years. MRI changes completely resolved after both episodes with no residual focal damage. The peri-ictal occipital changes on MRI in this patient are unique because they have been captured on more than one occasion. Peri-ictal MRI findings are a known phenomenon with unknown pathophysiology, although attempts have been made to understand these findings. Though the MRI findings and presentation appear to be stroke-like or PRES-like, seizures should be kept in the differential for better treatment outcomes.
Burkholderia Aortic Aneurysm: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Panginikkod Sreelakshmi , Ramachandran Aishwarya , Bollimunta Pratyusha , Habibi Roshanak , Kumar Arjal Roshan , Gopalakrishnan Venu
Published: November 2017

Melioidosis is a frequently fatal infection caused by the Gram-negative bacillus Burkholderia pseudomallei endemic to Southeast Asia and Northern Australia. It is a rare imported pathogen in the United States and is a potential bioterror agent. We report the case of an 82-year-old previously healthy man who presented with 2 weeks of fever and epigastric pain after he returned from the Philippines. A diagnosis of nondissecting mycotic aneurysm in the descending thoracic aorta was made with the help of CT angiogram and positive blood cultures. The patient completely recovered with a 6-month antibiotic therapy followed by surgical repair of the aneurysm. Given the slight increase in the number of melioidosis cases reported by CDC since 2008, melioidosis might be considered an emerging infectious disease in the United States. The purpose of this report is to raise awareness of the disease among clinicians as well as travelers.
High-Sensitivity Determination of K, Ca, Na, and Mg in Salt Mines Samples by Atomic Emission Spectrometry with a Miniaturized Liquid Cathode Glow Discharge
Authors: Yu Jie , Zhang Zhichao , Lu Quanfang , Sun Duixiong , Zhu Shuwen , Zhang Xiaomin , Wang Xing , Yang Wu
Published: November 2017

An atomic emission spectrometer (AES) based on a novel atmospheric pressure liquid cathode glow discharge (LCGD) as one of the most promising miniaturized excitation sources has been developed, in which the glow discharge is produced between a needle-like Pt anode and the electrolyte (as cathode) overflowing from a quartz capillary. Lower energy consumption (<50 W) and higher excitation efficiency can be realized by point discharge of the needle-like Pt. The miniaturized LCGD seems particularly well suited to rapid and high-sensitivity determination of K, Ca, Na, and Mg in salt mines samples. The optimized analytical conditions of LCGD-AES were pH = 1 with HNO3 as electrolyte, 650 V discharge voltage, and 3 mL min−1 solution flow rate. The limits of detections (LODs) of K, Ca, Na, and Mg were 0.390, 0.054, 0.048, and 0.032 mg L−1, respectively. Measurement results of the LCGD-AES are in good agreement with the comparison value obtained by inductively coupled plasma (ICP) and ion chromatography (IC). All results suggested that the developed portable analytical instrument can be used for on-site and real-time monitoring of metal elements in field with further improvement.
Networked Multimodal Sensor Control of Powered 2-DOF Wrist and Hand
Authors: Shibuya Masaki , Ohnishi Kengo , Kajitani Isamu
Published: November 2017

A prosthetic limb control system to operate powered 2-DOF wrist and 1-DOF hand with environmental information, myoelectric signal, and forearm posture signal is composed and evaluated. Our concept model on fusing biosignal and environmental information for easier manipulation with upper limb prosthesis is assembled utilizing networking software and prosthetic component interlink platform. The target is to enhance the controllability of the powered wrist’s orientation by processing the information to derive the joint movement in a physiologically appropriate manner. We applied a manipulative skill model of prehension which is constrained by forearm properties, grasping object properties, and task. The myoelectric and forearm posture sensor signals were combined with the work plane posture and the operation mode for grasping object properties. To verify the reduction of the operational load with the proposed method, we conducted 2 performance tests: system performance test to identify the powered 2-DOF wrist’s tracking performance and user operation tests. From the system performance experiment, the fusion control was confirmed to be sufficient to control the wrist joint with respect to the work plane posture. Forearm posture angle ranges were reduced when the prosthesis was operated companying environmental information in the user operation tests.
Narrow-Energy-Width CT Based on Multivoltage X-Ray Image Decomposition
Authors: Wei Jiaotong , Han Yan , Chen Ping
Published: November 2017

A polychromatic X-ray beam causes the grey of the reconstructed image to depend on its position within a solid and the material being imaged. This factor makes quantitative measurements via computed tomography (CT) imaging very difficult. To obtain a narrow-energy-width reconstructed image, we propose a model to decompose multivoltage X-ray images into many narrow-energy-width X-ray images by utilizing the low frequency characteristics of X-ray scattering. It needs no change of hardware in the typical CT system. Solving the decomposition model, narrow-energy-width projections are obtained and it is used to reconstruct the image. A cylinder composed of aluminum and silicon is used in a verification experiment. Some of the reconstructed images could be regarded as real narrow-energy-width reconstructed images, which demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Visibility Restoration for Single Hazy Image Using Dual Prior Knowledge
Authors: Ju Mingye , Gu Zhenfei , Zhang Dengyin , Qin Haoxing
Published: November 2017

Single image haze removal has been a challenging task due to its super ill‐posed nature. In this paper, we propose a novel single image algorithm that improves the detail and color of such degraded images. More concretely, we redefine a more reliable atmospheric scattering model (ASM) based on our previous work and the atmospheric point spread function (APSF). Further, by taking the haze density spatial feature into consideration, we design a scene‐wise APSF kernel prediction mechanism to eliminate the multiple‐scattering effect. With the redefined ASM and designed APSF, combined with the existing prior knowledge, the complex dehazing problem can be subtly converted into one‐dimensional searching problem, which allows us to directly obtain the scene transmission and thereby recover visually realistic results via the proposed ASM. Experimental results verify that our algorithm outperforms several state‐of‐the‐art dehazing techniques in terms of robustness, effectiveness, and efficiency.
A Parametrization‐Invariant Fourier Approach to Planar Linkage Synthesis for Path Generation
Authors: Li Xiangyun , Chen Peng
Published: November 2017

This paper deals with the classic problem of the synthesis of planar linkages for path generation. Based on the Fourier theory, the task curve and the synthesized four‐bar coupler curve are regarded as the same curve if their Fourier descriptors match. Using Fourier analysis, a curve must be given as a function of time, termed a parametrization. In practical applications, different parametrizations can be associated with the same task and coupler curve, respectively; however, these parametrizations are Fourier analyzed to different Fourier descriptors, thus resulting in the mismatch of the task and coupler curve. In this paper, we present a parametrization‐invariant method to eliminate the influence of parametrization on the values of Fourier descriptors by unifying given parametrizations to the arc length parametrization; meanwhile, a new design space decoupling scheme is introduced to separate the shape, size, orientation, and location matching of the task and four‐bar curve, which leads naturally to an efficient synthesis approach.
Electrochemical Behaviour of Tinidazole at 1,4-Benzoquinone Modified Carbon Paste Electrode and Its Direct Determination in Pharmaceutical Tablets and Urine by Differential Pulse Voltammetry
Authors: Nikodimos Yosef , Hagos Beyene
Published: November 2017

A simple and highly sensitive electrochemical method based on a 1,4-benzoquinone modified carbon paste electrode (1,4-BQMCPE) was described for the determination of tinidazole (TDZ). In Britton Robinson buffer solution, TDZ yields well-defined irreversible reduction peak at −0.344 V on a 1,4-BQMCPE. Compared with that on a bare CPE, the reduction peak of TDZ increased significantly on the modified CPE and the effects of different parameters on the voltammetric responses were also investigated. Differential pulse voltammetric method was proposed and optimized for TDZ determination and its reductive peak current response at 1,4-BQMCPE was found to show linear dependence on the concentration of TDZ in the range of 1.0 × 10−6to 5.0 × 10−4 M with a linear regression equation, correlation coefficient, limit of detection (LOD), and limit of quantification (LOQ) ofIPC (μA) = 0.19958 + 0.02657C (μM), 0.99486, 1.10 × 10−7 M, and 3.77 × 10−7, respectively. Excellent recovery results for spiked TDZ in pharmaceutical tablet samples ranging within 97.44–97.51% and in urine ranging within 95.37–96.91% were observed. The selectivity of the method for TDZ was further studied in the presence of selected potential interferents and confirmed the potential applicability of the developed method for the determination of TDZ.
Applying a New Automated Perimetry Pattern Based on the Stimulus Distribution of the Multifocal ERG to Improve Structure-Function Investigation in Glaucoma
Authors: Brandão Lívia M. , Monhart Matthias , Schötzau Andreas , Ledolter Anna A. , Palmowski-Wolfe Anja M.
Published: November 2017

Purpose. To validate a new automated perimetry pattern (mf103 pattern) for the investigation of retinal structure-function relationships in glaucoma in comparison to the standard G2 pattern and to relate either field’s performance to optical coherence tomography (OCT). Methods. Automated perimetry data from the mfERG103 pattern were compared with the standard G2 pattern in glaucoma patients (18) and controls (15). The results of both (mean defect (MD) and mean sensitivity (MS)) were compared with optical coherence tomography (OCT): retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness, macular thickness (mT), and ganglion cell analysis (GCIPL). Nine patients were followed up after one year. Results. G2 pattern and mf103 pattern did not differ significantly in MD or MS. The mf103 pattern associated significantly with more RNFL sectors in both MD and MS (p<0.01 and p<0.05, resp.). GCIPL thickness was not significantly associated with either SAP protocols. Both protocols remained comparable after one-year follow-up. Conclusions. G2 and mf103 pattern can both differentiate patients from controls with no significant difference in performance. RNFL thickness defects correlated better with mf103 than G2 with POAG. The mfERG-103 perimetry pattern can be used to establish structure-function correlations in glaucoma and may enable a more direct comparison with objective electrophysiological data.
An Approach to Developing Customized Total Knee Replacement Implants
Authors: Li Xinyu , Wang Changjiang , Guo Yuan , Chen Weiyi
Published: November 2017

Total knee replacement (TKR) has been performed for patients with end-stage knee joint arthritis to relieve pain and gain functions. Most knee replacement patients can gain satisfactory knee functions; however, the range of motion of the implanted knee is variable. There are many designs of TKR implants; it has been suggested by some researchers that customized implants could offer a better option for patients. Currently, the 3-dimensional knee model of a patient can be created from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) data using image processing techniques. The knee models can be used for patient-specific implant design, biomechanical analysis, and creating bone cutting guide blocks. Researchers have developed patient-specific musculoskeletal lower limb model with total knee replacement, and the models can be used to predict muscle forces, joint forces on knee condyles, and wear of tibial polyethylene insert. These available techniques make it feasible to create customized implants for individual patients. Methods and a workflow of creating a customized total knee replacement implant for improving TKR kinematics and functions are discussed and presented in this paper.
Questionnaire for Assessing Preschoolers’ Organizational Abilities in Their Natural Environments: Development and Establishment of Validity and Reliability
Authors: Tubul-Lavy Gila , Lifshitz Nirit
Published: November 2017

Despite the consensus in the literature regarding the importance of organizational abilities in performing daily tasks, currently there is no assessment that focuses exclusively on such abilities among young children. The study aims to develop a Questionnaire for Assessing Preschoolers’ Organizational Abilities (QAPOA), Parents’ and Teachers’ versions, and to examine their reliability and validity. QAPOA was distributed to preschool teachers and parents of 215 typically developing 4–5.6-year-old children. The teachers’ and parents’ versions demonstrated good internal consistency. Factor analysis performed to examine the tool’s content validity yielded two factors: motor-based and language-based OA. Furthermore, both versions of the questionnaire demonstrated significant differences between OA among boys and girls. Concurrent validity was demonstrated between the QAPOA total scores and the equivalent subscale of the BRIEF-P. Given these findings, different cut-off scores were established for identifying boys and girls with either motor-based and/or language-based OA. The results indicate that both the teachers’ and parents’ versions of the QAPOA are reliable and valid measures of children’s organizational abilities. The questionnaires can assess and identify risk for organizational disabilities as early as preschool age. Thus, it can contribute to the planning of appropriate intervention programs and the prevention of difficulties in the future.
Downregulation of Profilin-1 Expression Attenuates Cardiomyocytes Hypertrophy and Apoptosis Induced by Advanced Glycation End Products in H9c2 Cells
Authors: Yang Dafeng , Wang Ya , Jiang Minna , Deng Xu , Pei Zhifang , Li Fei , Xia Ke , Zhu Lingyan , Yang Tianlun , Chen Meifang
Published: November 2017

Cardiomyocytes hypertrophy and apoptosis induced by advanced glycation end products (AGEs) is the crucial pathological foundation contributing to the onset and development of diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). However, the mechanism remains poorly understood. Here, we report that profilin-1 (PFN-1), a well-known actin-binding protein, serves as a potent regulator in AGEs-induced cardiomyocytes hypertrophy and apoptosis. PFN-1 was upregulated in AGEs-treated H9c2 cells, which was associated with increased cardiomyocytes hypertrophy and apoptosis. Silencing PFN-1 expression remarkably attenuated AGEs-induced H9c2 cell hypertrophy and apoptosis. Mechanistically, AGEs increased PFN-1 expression through elevating ROS production and RhoA and ROCK2 expression. Consequently, elevated PFN-1 promoted actin cytoskeleton disorganization. When either ROS production/ROCK activation was blocked or cells were treated with Cytochalasin D (actin depolymerizer), H9c2 cells were protected against AGEs-induced cardiac myocyte abnormalities, concomitantly with downregulated expression of PFN-1 and improved actin cytoskeleton alteration. Collectively, these data suggest that PFN-1 may play an important role in AGEs-induced hypertrophy and apoptosis in H9c2 cells.
Endophytic Fungi as Pretreatment to Enhance Enzymatic Hydrolysis of Olive Tree Pruning
Authors: Martín-Sampedro Raquel , López-Linares Juan Carlos , Fillat Úrsula , Gea-Izquierdo Guillermo , Ibarra David , Castro Eulogio , Eugenio María E.
Published: November 2017

Olive tree pruning, as one of the most abundant lignocellulosic residues in Mediterranean countries, has been evaluated as a source of sugars for fuel and chemicals production. A mild acid pretreatment has been combined with a fungal pretreatment using either two endophytes (Ulocladiumsp. andHormonemasp.) or a saprophyte (Trametessp. I-62). The use of endophytes is based on the important role that some of them play during the initial stages of wood decomposition. Without acid treatment, fungal pretreatment withUlocladiumsp. provided a nonsignificant enhancement of 4.6% in glucose digestibility, compared to control. When a mild acid hydrolysis was carried out after fungal pretreatments, significant increases in glucose digestibility from 4.9% to 12.0% (compared to control without fungi) were observed for all fungal pretreatments, with maximum values yielded byHormonemasp. However, despite the observed digestibility boost, the total sugar yields (taking into account solid yield) were not significantly increased by the pretreatments. Nevertheless, based on these preliminary improvements in digestibility, this work proves the potential of endophytic fungi to boost the production of sugar from olive tree pruning, which would add an extra value to the bioeconomy of olive crops.
An Echocardiographic Screening Program Helps to Identify Pulmonary Hypertension in Extremely Low Birthweight Infants with and without Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Mehler Katrin , Udink Ten Cate Floris E. , Keller Titus , Bangen Ursula , Kribs Angela , Oberthuer André
Published: November 2017

Background: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) affects 1 in 6 infants with a birthweight <1,000 g (extremely low birthweight; ELBW) and is frequently associated with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). If untreated, the mortality rates of the disease are high. Objectives: The aim of this study was to characterize risk factors for PH in ELBW infants and to describe the timing of onset of the disease by setting up a screening program. Methods: ELBW infants treated at the Department of Neonatology (level III neonatal intensive care unit at the University of Cologne Medical Centre, Germany) between January 2010 and March 2015 were included. Echocardiography screening for PH was performed either before discharge or if BPD was diagnosed. Additionally, infants had at least 1 echocardiographic scan after discharge. Survival with PH, age at diagnosis of PH, and risk factors associated with PH were assessed. Results: In total, 34/188 (18%) infants had PH. Of these, 14 (41%) were identified after discharge. Another 11 (32%) were diagnosed with PH without suffering from moderate or severe BPD. The risk factors for diagnosis of PH were moderate (odds ratio, OR 4 [2-8]) or severe BPD (OR 13 [2-71]), prolonged rupture of membranes >7 days (OR 5 [1-19]), and birthweight below the 3rd percentile (OR 3 [1-9]). All infants with PH before discharge and 50% diagnosed after discharge were treated with sildenafil (2.0 mg/kg/day). PH resolved and sildenafil was discontinued in all patients after a median duration of 13 months (IQR 8-20). Conclusions: An echocardiographic screening program may help to identify infants with PH. Examinations should include all ELBW infants irrespective of the presence of BPD and be continued after discharge.
Splanchnic-Cerebral Oxygenation Ratio Decreases during Enteral Feedings in Anemic Preterm Infants: Observations under Near-Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Braski Katherine , Weaver-Lewis Kimberlee , Loertscher Manndi , Ding Qian , Sheng Xiaoming , Baserga Mariana
Published: November 2017

Background: Anemia is common in premature infants. Due to risks with red blood cell transfusions, many anemic infants are not transfused. The implications of this pathophysiologic status, especially at times of increased metabolic demand (enteral feedings), is not well understood. Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) allows for the noninvasive determination of regional oxygen saturations (rSO2) in tissues such as the brain and mesentery, giving insight into their oxygen sufficiency. Objective: We tested the hypothesis that during enteral feedings very low birth weight (VLBW) infants with a hematocrit ≤28% will experience a decrease in splanchnic rSO2 and splanchnic-cerebral oxygenation ratio (SCOR). Methods: This prospective, observational, 2-centered study included VLBW infants receiving full enteral feedings with a hematocrit ≤28%. Cerebral and splanchnic rSO2 were monitored via NIRS for 24 h. Average values were calculated for periods immediately preceding, during, and after each feeding. SCOR was calculated from these values (rSO2 splanchnic/rSO2 cerebral), and data were analyzed using a linear mixed effect model. Results: Fifty neonates with a median gestational age of 28 weeks (range 23-32), a birth weight of 1,118 ± 284 g (mean ± SD), and a hematocrit of 26 ± 2% (mean ± SD) were studied. During feedings, SCOR decreased significantly from baseline (0.72 ± 0.17 to 0.69 ± 0.17, p = 0.043). With feedings, there was a trend of decreased splanchnic rSO2 (47 ± 11 to 45 ± 10, p = 0.057) and no change in cerebral rSO2 (66 ± 8 to 66 ± 7, p = 0.597). Conclusions: VLBW infants with a hematocrit ≤28% had a decrease in SCOR and a trend towards decreased splanchnic rSO2 with enteral feedings.
A Review of Anesthetic Effects on Renal Function: Potential Organ Protection
Authors: Motayagheni Negar , Phan Sheshanna , Eshraghi Crystal , Nozari Ala , Atala Anthony
Published: November 2017

Background: Renal protection is a critical concept for anesthesiologists, nephrologists, and urologists, since anesthesia and renal function are highly interconnected and can potentially interfere with one another. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of anesthetic drugs and their effects on renal function remains fundamental to the success of renal surgeries, especially transplant procedures. Some experimental studies have shown that some anesthetics provide protection against renal ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury, but there is limited clinical evidence. Summary: The effects of anesthetic drugs on renal failure are particularly important in the context of kidney transplantation, since the conditions of preservation following removal profoundly influence the recovery of organ function. Currently, preservation procedures are typically based on the usage of a cold-storage solution. Some anesthetic drugs induce anti-inflammatory, anti-necrotic, and anti-apoptotic effects. A more thorough understanding of anesthetic effects on renal function can present a novel approach for developing organ-protective strategies. The aim of this review is to discuss the effects of different anesthetic drugs on renal function, with particular focus on IR injury. Many studies have demonstrated the organ-protective effects of some anesthetic drugs, specifically propofol, which indicate the potential of some anesthetics to introduce novel organ protective targets. This is not surprising, since lipid emulsions are major components of propofol, which accumulating data show provide organ protective effects against IR injury. Key Messages: Thorough understanding of the interaction between anesthetic drugs and renal function remains fundamental to the delivery of safe perioperative care and to optimizing outcomes after renal surgeries, particularly transplant procedures. Anesthetics can be repurposed for organ protection with more information about their effects, especially during transplant procedures. Here, we review the effects of different anesthetic drugs – specifically those that contain lipids in their structure, with special reference to IR injury.
LncRNA UCA1 Promotes Mitochondrial Function of Bladder Cancer via the MiR-195/ARL2 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Li Hui-Jin , Sun Xiao-Min , Li Zheng-Kun , Yin Qian-Wen , Pang Huan , Pan Jing-Jing , Li Xu , Chen Wei
Published: November 2017

Background/Aims: This study aims to identify whether Urothelial Cancer Associated 1 (UCA1) regulates mitochondrial metabolic reprogramming in bladder cancer, and to explore how UCA1 participates in mitochondrial metabolism by the UCA1/miR-195/ARL2 signaling pathway; these findings may be aid in the development of tumor diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Methods: Bladder tissues were obtained from patients. Stable cell lines were constructed, with ectopic expression of UCA1 in UMUC2 cells and knockdown of UCA1 in 5637 cells. The expression levels of UCA1, miR-195, and ARL2 were detected by real-time PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry Cell viability was detected by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) assay; mitochondrial DNA copy numbers were tested by realtime PCR; ATP level was evaluated by ATP assay kit; mitochondrial membrane potential was analyzed by 5,5’,6,6’-tetrachloro-1,1’,3,3’- tetraethylbenzimidazolylcarbocyanine iodide (JC-1) fluorescent probe. miRNAs between UCA1 and ARL2 were predicted by TargetScan and RNAHybrid, and then determined by real-time PCR. Dual-luciferase activity assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay were used to verify the relationship between UCA1 and miR-195. The expression level of ARL2 was silenced by small interfering RNA(siRNA). For in vivo experiments, UCA1-silencing 5637 cells were subcutaneously injected into BALB/C nude mice to evaluate the effects of UCA1 on tumor progression by the regulation of miR-195 and ARL2. Results: We demonstrate here that UCA1 enhances mitochondrial function in bladder cancer cells. UCA1 contributes to ARL2-induced mitochondrial activity, which plays an important role in mitochondrial function. UCA1, as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA), regulates mitochondrial function through upregulating ARL2. In this way, it inhibited the miR-195 signaling pathway to enhance mitochondrial function in bladder cancer. Additionally, ARL2 is a direct target of miR-195 and can be repressed by either miR-195 overexpression or UCA1 inhibition. Knockdown of ARL2 was analogous to the inhibition of UCA1 and the upregulation of miR-195. Animal experiments further indicated that UCA1 promoted bladder tumor growth by regulating miR-195 /ARL2. Conclusion: These data suggest that UCA1 enhanced mitochondrial function and cell viability through the UCA1/miR-195/ARL2 axis in vitro and in vivo. The elucidation of this signaling network provides a more adequate theoretical basis for understanding the molecular pathology of bladder cancer, and also UCA1 as a potential diagnosis and treatment target for bladder cancer.
Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Promotes Autophagy and Apoptosis and Reduces Chemotherapy Resistance in Mutant p53 Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Gan Ping-Ping , Zhou Yang-Ying , Zhong Mei-Zuo , Peng Yun , Li Li , Li Jian-Huang
Published: November 2017

Background/Aims: Lung cancer (LC) continues to be one of the most prevalent cancers around the world. During this study we aimed to investigate the involvement of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) in autophagy, apoptosis, and chemotherapy resistance of mutant p53 LC cells. Methods: Immunohistochemistry was employed to help determine the p53 mutation status of cancer cells from 92 primary LC patients, who were subsequently assigned to either the mutant p53 (n = 39) or wild-type p53 group (n = 53). Results: Mutant p53 cells exhibited increased expression of the C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78), and inositol-requiring enzyme-1α (IRE1α). The Mutant p53 cells were also found to be sensitive to chemotherapy and displayed decreased expression of PI3K, Akt, and mTOR. The mutant p53 cell lines were treated with tunicamycin to induce ERS and rapamycin in order to inhibit mTOR. Both agents increased the expression of CHOP, GRP78, IRE1α, LC3-II/LC3-I, Atg5, Atg7, caspase-3, caspase-12, cleaved caspase-3, cleaved caspase-12, as well as decreases in cell proliferation as well as the expression levels of PI3K, Akt, and mTOR. Enhanced levels of cell apoptosis and reduced chemotherapy resistance were also detected. Conclusion: The findings of our study suggest that ERS promotes autophagy and apoptosis, while acting to reduce chemotherapy resistance in mutant p53 LC cells by downregulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.
Antonio Tabucchi: leitor e tradutor de Carlos Drummond de Andrade
Authors: Salatini Érica
Published: November 2017

Em 1987 foi publicada na Itália a primeira coletânea de poemas de Carlos Drummond de Andrade, com tradução de Antonio Tabucchi, importante escritor contemporâneo, lusitanista e tradutor. Antes disso o leitor italiano só teve acesso a poemas esparsos de Drummond, publicados em antologias de poetas brasileiros. Este artigo apresenta brevemente a tradução de dois destes poemas e reflete sobre as escolhas do tradutor, acenando para as implicações desta tradução de Tabucchi na divulgação da obra poética drummondiana no contexto literário italiano
Storia della traslatio del corpus Pirandelliano in Brasile
Authors: Dugo Sandra
Published: November 2017

Propongo un breve viaggio nella storia delle traduzioni delle opere pirandelliane dal lontano 1924 fino ai nostri giorni. Potremmo ipotizzare che i traduttori brasiliani hanno accettato sin dall’inizio una grande sfida: tornare all’originale? Oppure creare ex novo un’opera diversa? Attraverso gli articoli dei giornali suggerisco di riflettere sul contesto sociale in cui lavoravano, impegnati con la complessità delle trame pirandelliane. I loro contributi hanno creato la storia delle traduzioni, un ricco patrimonio ereditato dal lavoro di numerosi intellettuali brasiliani.
Crítica da esquerda, crítica da razão – uma visão de conjunto sobre o pensamento de Horkheimer nos anos 1940
Authors: Repa Luiz Sérgio
Published: November 2017

Para delinear uma visão de conjunto sobre o pensamento de Horkheimer nos 1940, procura-se defender duas teses: primeiramente, trata-se de apoiar a ideia de que a crítica da razão, que marca esse período, se deve em última instância a uma crítica endereçada à esquerda, que Horkheimer desenvolve no ensaio “Estado autoritário”. A segunda tese afirma, por sua vez, que a crítica da razão aponta para dois caminhos diferentes na obra de Horkheimer, traçados em dois livros quase simultâneos: Dialética do esclarecimento, em parceira com Th. W. Adorno, e Eclipse da razão. A primeira obra representa uma via que pode ser chamada de “nietzschiana”, caracterizada pela identidade entre razão e dominação. A segunda obra, por sua vez, mostra uma via “kantiana”, a qual deve lidar na modernidade com o conflito entre a razão subjetiva e a razão objetiva.
A soberania popular revisitada: autogoverno como modo de vida
Authors: Melo Rúrion
Published: November 2017

O conceito de soberania popular de Rousseau está vinculado a uma ideia radical de liberdade como autonomia: é livre aquele capaz de governar a si mesmo, não se submetendo à vontade de um outro. O presente artigo procura investigar o enraizamento social da autonomia não apenas como critério crítico de legitimidade política, mas tendo em vista compreender de que maneira ele se insere em contextos de ação da vida cotidiana da sociedade. Formas atuais de dominação social e novas gramáticas de lutas emancipatórias (em pautas ligadas ao feminismo radical ou às questões do antirracismo) mostram que a autonomia também precisa encontrar efetividade em dimensões sociais complementares à esfera pública política.
2017 American Heart Association Focused Update on Pediatric Basic Life Support and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Quality: An Update to the American Heart Association Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care
Authors: Atkins Dianne L. , de Caen Allan R. , Berger Stuart , Samson Ricardo A. , Schexnayder Stephen M. , Joyner Benny L. , Bigham Blair L. , Niles Dana E. , Duff Jonathan P. , Hunt Elizabeth A. , Meaney Peter A.
Published: November 2017

This focused update to the American Heart Association guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and emergency cardiovascular care follows the Pediatric Task Force of the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation evidence review. It aligns with the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation’s continuous evidence review process, and updates are published when the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation completes a literature review based on new science. This update provides the evidence review and treatment recommendation for chest compression–only CPR versus CPR using chest compressions with rescue breaths for children <18 years of age. Four large database studies were available for review, including 2 published after the “2015 American Heart Association Guidelines Update for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care.” Two demonstrated worse 30-day outcomes with chest compression–only CPR for children 1 through 18 years of age, whereas 2 studies documented no difference between chest compression–only CPR and CPR using chest compressions with rescue breaths. When the results were analyzed for infants <1 year of age, CPR using chest compressions with rescue breaths was better than no CPR but was no different from chest compression–only CPR in 1 study, whereas another study observed no differences among chest compression–only CPR, CPR using chest compressions with rescue breaths, and no CPR. CPR using chest compressions with rescue breaths should be provided for infants and children in cardiac arrest. If bystanders are unwilling or unable to deliver rescue breaths, we recommend that rescuers provide chest compressions for infants and children.
Atrioesophageal Fistula
Authors: Han Hui-Chen , Ha Francis J. , Sanders Prashanthan , Spencer Ryan , Teh Andrew W. , O’Donnell David , Farouque Omar , Lim Han S.
Published: November 2017

Background

Percutaneous or surgical ablation are increasingly used worldwide in the management of atrial fibrillation. The development of atrioesophageal fistula (AEF) is among the most serious and lethal complications of atrial fibrillation ablation. We sought to characterize the clinical presentation, procedural characteristics, diagnostic investigations, and treatment outcomes of all reported cases of AEF.

Methods and Results

Electronic searches were conducted in PubMed and Embase for English scientific literature articles. Out of 628 references, 120 cases of AEF were identified using various ablation modalities. Clinical presentation occurred between 0 and 60 days postablation (median 21 days). Fever (73%), neurological (72%), gastrointestinal (41%), and cardiac (40%) symptoms were the commonest presentations. Computed tomography of the chest was the commonest mode of diagnosis (68%), although 7 cases required repeat testing. Overall mortality was 55%, with significantly reduced mortality in patients undergoing surgical repair (33%) compared with endoscopic treatment (65%) and conservative management (97%) (adjusted odds ratio, 24.9;
P
<0.01, compared with surgery). Multivariable predictors of mortality include presentation with neurological symptoms (adjusted odds ratio, 16.0;
P
<0.001) and gastrointestinal bleed (adjusted odds ratio, 4.2;
P
=0.047).

Conclusions

AEF complicating atrial fibrillation ablation is associated with a high mortality. Clinicians should have a high suspicion for the development of AEF in patients presenting with infective, neurological, gastrointestinal, or cardiac symptoms within 2 months of an atrial fibrillation ablation. Investigation by contrast computed tomography of the chest with consideration of repeat testing can lead to prompt diagnosis. Surgical intervention is associated with improved survival rates.
Mitochondrial Oxidative Stress Reduces the Immunopotency of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in Adults With Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Kizilay Mancini Ozge , Lora Maximilien , Cuillerier Alexanne , Shum-Tim Dominique , Hamdy Reggie , Burelle Yan , Servant Marc J. , Stochaj Ursula , Colmegna Inés
Published: November 2017

Rationale:

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are promising therapeutic strategies for coronary artery disease; however, donor-related variability in cell quality is a main cause of discrepancies in preclinical studies. In vitro, MSCs from individuals with coronary artery disease have reduced ability to suppress activated T-cells. The mechanisms underlying the altered immunomodulatory capacity of MSCs in the context of atherosclerosis remain elusive.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to assess the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the impaired immunomodulatory properties of MSCs from patients with atherosclerosis.

Methods and Results:

Adipose tissue–derived MSCs were isolated from atherosclerotic (n=38) and nonatherosclerotic (n=42) donors. MSCs:CD4
+
T-cell suppression was assessed in allogeneic coculture systems. Compared with nonatherosclerotic-MSCs, atherosclerotic-MSCs displayed higher levels of both intracellular (
P
=0.006) and mitochondrial (
P
=0.03) reactive oxygen species reflecting altered mitochondrial function. The increased mitochondrial reactive oxygen species levels of atherosclerotic-MSCs promoted a phenotypic switch characterized by enhanced glycolysis and an altered cytokine secretion (interleukin-6
P
<0.0001, interleukin-8/C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 8
P
=0.04, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1/chemokine ligand 2
P
=0.01). Furthermore, treatment of atherosclerotic-MSCs with the reactive oxygen species scavenger N-acetyl-
l
-cysteine reduced the levels of interleukin-6, interleukin-8/C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 8, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1/chemokine ligand 2 in the MSC secretome and improved MSCs immunosuppressive capacity (
P
=0.03).

Conclusions:

An impaired mitochondrial function of atherosclerotic-MSCs underlies their altered secretome and reduced immunopotency. Interventions aimed at restoring the mitochondrial function of atherosclerotic-MSCs improve their in vitro immunosuppressive ability and may translate into enhanced therapeutic efficiency.
Vertical and Horizontal Spillovers from Foreign Direct Investment:  Evidence from Malaysian Manufacturing
Authors: Dogan Ergun , Wong Koi Nyen , Yap Michael M. C.
Published: November 2017

Given developing countries’ dependence on foreign direct investment (FDI) in manufacturing, it is important to assess the benefits that accompany FDI, given the cost of incentives that are used to attract foreign investments. We empirically analyze FDI spillover effects in Malaysia using unpublished establishment-level data, accounting for domestic firm size, the market orientation of local firms and foreign multinationals, and firm technology level and absorptive capacity. We find weak evidence of horizontal spillovers; backward and forward spillovers are negative in most cases. Because these results raise concerns about the technological capability of local firms, government policies on technology, human resource, education, and R&D should address this.
R&D Performance in High-Tech Firms in China
Authors: Chen Zhao , Lee Sang-Ho , Xu Wei
Published: November 2017

Using firm-level data from Changzhou, a prefectural city in China's Yangzi River Delta, we investigate the performance of both internal and external research and development (R&D) in high-tech firms. We find that, on average, high-tech firms with more internal R&D expenditure apply for more patents in terms of both the total number of patents and the number of invention patents. Internal R&D is most efficient in foreign firms, followed by private firms and then state-owned enterprises. These findings highlight the importance of privatizing high-tech firms in China if the government intends to accelerate industrial upgrading and convert the pattern of “Made in China” into “Created in China.”
Interest Liberalization and the Estimation of Implicit Interest Rates in China's Banking Sector
Authors: Shen Yan , Bian Wenlong
Published: November 2017

China's interest rate liberalization process has yet to be completed. Despite removal of deposit interest rate ceilings on 23 October 2015, controls like window guidance are still imposed to prevent commercial banks from setting interest rates freely. This paper estimates implicit interest rates in China (i.e., the additional yield to official interest rates that banks must pay to attract deposits) using headquarter-level data of 88 commercial banks from BankScope and branch-level data of 317 branches in 90 counties and 14 provinces for the period 2005–13. The econometric methods allow for both heterogeneity and spatial correlation in banks’ behavior to better capture the characteristics of the Chinese banking industry. Three main findings emerge from this study. First, the estimated mean implicit interest rate is between 70 percent and 78 percent of the explicit interest rate—ignoring implicit interest rates results in underestimation of funding costs. Second, a 1 percent increase in deposit interest rates is estimated to decrease implicit interest rates by 0.44 percent, implying that the cost of interest rate liberalization will be smaller than the increase in deposit interest rates. Third, small share-holding banks, city commercial banks and rural commercial banks pay higher implicit interest rates than large state-owned banks. To promote efficient resource allocation, therefore, interest rate liberalization needs to be firmly pursued but its impact on different types of banks needs to be closely monitored to minimize disruptions to the real economy.
High motivation enables smaller contestants to win the contests in fiddler crabs (Brachyura, Ocypodidae)
Authors: Tina Fahmida Wazed , Jaroensutasinee Mullica , Jaroensutasinee Krisanadej
Published: November 2017

We observed the outcomes of fights of smaller contestants against larger opponents during male-male contests in Uca annulipes (H. Milne Edwards, 1837), Uca bengali Crane, 1975, and Uca rosea (Tweedie, 1937). Smaller contestants won 30, 31 and 37% of the contests in U. annulipes, U. bengali and U. rosea, respectively, regardless of body size disadvantages. Smaller contestants won when body size asymmetries were lesser, but took a longer time to win the contests, while with greater size-asymmetries, smaller ones lost the contests in a short time. In U. bengali and U. rosea, most of the smaller winners were residents (burrow owners), but not in U. annulipes. This study shows that longer fighting duration or high motivation enables the smaller contestants, especially the residents, to overcome their inferior fighting ability and win contests against larger opponents.
On Schornikovdona gen. nov. (Ostracoda, Candonidae) from rheocrene springs in Texas (U.S.A.)
Authors: Külköylüoğlu Okan , Yavuzatmaca Mehmet , Akdemi̇r Derya , Diaz Peter H. , Gibson Randy
Published: November 2017

A new candonid genus, Schornikovdona gen. nov., with its type species Schornikovdona bellensis sp. nov., is described from rheocrene springs of Bell County, Texas. It is designated to the tribe Candonini due to the smooth carapace surface, normal pore openings with sensory seta, the presence of a 5-segmented first antenna, two long sexual bristles on the second antenna in males, the narrowly fused terminal segment of the Md palp, a long penultimate segment of the Mxl palp, two long and one short setae on the terminal segment of T3, the absence of an “e” seta on T3, the presence of a posterior seta on the uropod, the presence of 5 + 2 rows of spines on Zenker’s organ, and other characteristics found in the tribe. The main diagnostic characteristics separating the new genus from the other genera in the tribe are the shape of the carapace, the reduced numbers of segments in the first antenna, reduction or absence of exopodial setae in the second antenna, asymmetrical clasping organs, the uropod with one rod-shaped claw, the different shape of the hemipenis, and differences in parts of the chaetotaxy. Based on these differences, we propose Schornikovdona gen. nov. as a new genus, with the new species S. bellensis sp. nov., in the subfamily Candoninae in the family Candonidae.
Molecular characterization and expression of the p38 MAPK gene from the ridgetail white prawn, Palaemon carinicauda Holthuis, 1950 (Decapoda, Palaemonidae)
Authors: Xue Bei , Zhang Pei , Li Zhi H. , Zhao Lian , Lai Xiao F. , Chen Jian H. , Gao Huan , Yan Bin L.
Published: November 2017

The p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) are a kind of Ser/Thr protein kinases that convert extracellular stimuli into a wide range of cellular response, appearing to function not only in stress stimuli but also in development. To explore the function of p38 MAPK in Palaemon carinicauda Holthuis, 1950, we cloned and characterized the full-length cDNA sequence (GenBank accession number KX893515) (designated as Pc-p38). The results showed that the open reading frame (ORF) of Pc-p38 was 1098 bp and it encoded a protein of 365 amino acids. Pc-p38 contained the conserved structures of a Thr-Gly-Tyr (TGY) motif and a substrate-binding site, Ala-Thr-Arg-Trp (ATRW), and was shown to have a close phylogenetic relationship to other p38 MAPKs in crustaceans. The tissue distribution patterns showed that Pc-p38 was widely expressed in all tissues, with highest expression in the hepatopancreas and ovary. Quantitative real-time PCR revealed that Pc-p38 was upregulated during ecdysis, reaching a peak at 5 min post-moult, suggesting that Pc-p38 may be involved in muscle remodeling after moulting. In addition, the expression of Pc-p38 increased following exposure to different concentrations of mercury, in a dose- and time-dependent manner. In conclusion, an Pc-p38 gene was cloned and its role determined at different times post-moult and after stress from different concentrations of mercury, to further reveal the possible functions of p38 MAPK in P. carinicauda.