bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epigenetic Signature: A New Player as Predictor of Clinically Significant Prostate Cancer (PCa) in Patients on Active Surveillance (AS)
Authors: Ferro Matteo , Ungaro Paola , Cimmino Amelia , Lucarelli Giuseppe , Busetto Gian , Cantiello Francesco , Damiano Rocco , Terracciano Daniela
Published: May 2017

Widespread prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing notably increased the number of prostate cancer (PCa) diagnoses. However, about 30% of these patients have low-risk tumors that are not lethal and remain asymptomatic during their lifetime. Overtreatment of such patients may reduce quality of life and increase healthcare costs. Active surveillance (AS) has become an accepted alternative to immediate treatment in selected men with low-risk PCa. Despite much progress in recent years toward identifying the best candidates for AS in recent years, the greatest risk remains the possibility of misclassification of the cancer or missing a high-risk cancer. This is particularly worrisome in men with a life expectancy of greater than 10–15 years. The Prostate Cancer Research International Active Surveillance (PRIAS) study showed that, in addition to age and PSA at diagnosis, both PSA density (PSA-D) and the number of positive cores at diagnosis (two compared with one) are the strongest predictors for reclassification biopsy or switching to deferred treatment. However, there is still no consensus upon guidelines for placing patients on AS. Each institution has its own protocol for AS that is based on PRIAS criteria. Many different variables have been proposed as tools to enrol patients in AS: PSA-D, the percentage of freePSA, and the extent of cancer on biopsy (number of positive cores or percentage of core involvement). More recently, the Prostate Health Index (PHI), the 4 Kallikrein (4K) score, and other patient factors, such as age, race, and family history, have been investigated as tools able to predict clinically significant PCa. Recently, some reports suggested that epigenetic mapping differs significantly between cancer patients and healthy subjects. These findings indicated as future prospect the use of epigenetic markers to identify PCa patients with low-grade disease, who are likely candidates for AS. This review explores literature data about the potential of epigenetic markers as predictors of clinically significant disease.
Knockdown of XBP1 by RNAi in Mouse Granulosa Cells Promotes Apoptosis, Inhibits Cell Cycle, and Decreases Estradiol Synthesis
Authors: Wang Nan , Zhao Fan , Lin Pengfei , Zhang Guangle , Tang Keqiong , Wang Aihua , Jin Yaping
Published: May 2017

Granulosa cells are crucial for follicular growth, development, and follicular atresia. X-box binding protein 1 (XBP1), a basic region-leucine zipper protein, is widely involved in cell differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, cellular stress response, and other signaling pathways. In this study, RNA interference, flow cytometry, western blot, real-time PCR, Cell Counting Kit (CCK8), and ELISA were used to investigate the effect of XBP1 on steroidogenesis, apoptosis, cell cycle, and proliferation of mouse granulosa cells. ELISA analysis showed that XBP1 depletion significantly decreased the concentrations of estradiol (E2). Additionally, the expression of estrogen synthesis enzyme Cyp19a1 was sharply downregulated. Moreover, flow cytometry showed that knockdown of XBP1 increased the apoptosis rate and arrests the cell cycle in S-phase in granulosa cells (GCs). Further study confirmed these results. The expression of CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP), cysteinyl aspartate specific proteases-3 (caspase-3), cleaved caspase-3, and Cyclin E was upregulated, while that of Bcl-2, Cyclin A1, and Cyclin B1 was downregulated. Simultaneously, CCK8 analysis indicated that XBP1 disruption inhibited cell proliferation. In addition, XBP1 knockdown also alters the expression of Has2 and Ptgs2, two essential genes for folliculogenesis. Collectively, these data reveal a novel critical role of XBP1 in folliculogenesis by regulating the cell cycle, apoptosis, and steroid synthesis of mouse granulosa cells.
Product Selectivity in Homogeneous Artificial Photosynthesis Using [(bpy)Rh(Cp*)X]n+-Based Catalysts
Authors: Mengele Alexander , Rau Sven
Published: May 2017

Due to the limited amount of fossil energy carriers, the storage of solar energy in chemical bonds using artificial photosynthesis has been under intensive investigation within the last decades. As the understanding of the underlying working principle of these complex systems continuously grows, more focus will be placed on a catalyst design for highly selective product formation. Recent reports have shown that multifunctional photocatalysts can operate with high chemoselectivity, forming different catalysis products under appropriate reaction conditions. Within this context [(bpy)Rh(Cp*)X]n+-based catalysts are highly relevant examples for a detailed understanding of product selectivity in artificial photosynthesis since the identification of a number of possible reaction intermediates has already been achieved.
Symmetric Assembly of a Sterically Encumbered Allyl Complex: Mechanochemical and Solution Synthesis of the Tris(allyl)beryllate, K[BeA′3] (A′ = 1,3-(SiMe3)2C3H3)
Authors: Boyde Nicholas , Rightmire Nicholas , Hanusa Timothy , Brennessel William
Published: May 2017

The ball milling of beryllium chloride with two equivalents of the potassium salt of bis(1,3-trimethylsilyl)allyl anion, K[A′] (A′ = [1,3-(SiMe3)2C3H3]), produces the tris(allyl)beryllate K[BeA’3] (1) rather than the expected neutral BeA’2. The same product is obtained from reaction in hexanes; in contrast, although a similar reaction conducted in Et2O was previously shown to produce the solvated species BeA’2(OEt2), it can produce 1 if the reaction time is extended (16 h). The tris(allyl)beryllate is fluxional in solution, and displays the strongly downfield 9Be NMR shift expected for a three-coordinate Be center (δ22.8 ppm). A single crystal X-ray structure reveals that the three allyl ligands are bound to beryllium in an arrangement with approximate C3 symmetry (Be–C (avg) = 1.805(10) Å), with the potassium cation engaging in cation–π interactions with the double bonds of the allyl ligands. Similar structures have previously been found in complexes of zinc and tin, i.e., M[M′A′3L] (M′ = Zn, M = Li, Na, K; M′ = Sn, M = K; L = thf). Density functional theory (DFT) calculations indicate that the observed C3-symmetric framework of the isolated anion ([BeA′3]−) is 20 kJ·mol−1 higher in energy than a C1 arrangement; the K+ counterion evidently plays a critical role in templating the final conformation.
Synthesis, Characterization and Hexavalent Chromium Adsorption Characteristics of Aluminum- and Sucrose-Incorporated Tobermorite
Authors: Zhao Zhiguang , Wei Jiangxiong , Li Fangxian , Qu Xiaoling , Shi Liang , Zhang Haidong , Yu Qijun
Published: May 2017

Tobermorites were synthesized from the lime-quartz slurries with incorporations of aluminum and sucrose under hydrothermal conditions, and then used for adsorption of Cr(VI). The chemical components, and structural and morphological properties of tobermorite were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric-differential scanning calorimetry (TG-DSC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic (XPS) and N2 adsorption–desorption measurements. The formation and crystallinity of tobermorite could be largely enhanced by adding 2.3 wt.% aluminum hydroxide or 13.3 wt.% sucrose. Sucrose also played a significantly positive role in increasing the surface area. The adsorption performances for Cr(VI) were tested using a batch method taking into account the effects of pH, the adsorption kinetics, and the adsorption isotherms. The adsorption capacities of the aluminum- and sucrose-incorporated tobermorites reached up to 31.65 mg/g and 28.92 mg/g, respectively. Thus, the synthesized tobermorites showed good adsorption properties for removal of Cr(VI), making this material a promising candidate for efficient bulk wastewater treatment.
Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, Antibiotic, and Cytotoxic Activities of Tanacetum vulgare L. Essential Oil and Its Constituents
Authors: Coté Héloïse , Boucher Marie-Anne , Pichette André , Legault Jean
Published: May 2017

Background: Tanacetum vulgare L. (Asteraceae) is a perennial herb that has been used to treat multiple ailments. Regional variability of the chemical composition of T. vulgare essential oils is well-known. Despite these regional chemotypes, most relevant studies did not analyze the complete chemical composition of the T. vulgare essential oil and its constituents in relation to their biological activities. Here, we assess the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, and cytotoxic activities of T. vulgare collected from northern Quebec (Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean), Canada. Methods: Essential oil was extracted from plants by steam distillation and analyzed using GC-FID. Biological activities of essential oil and its main constituents were evaluated in vitro. Results: We identified the major compounds as camphor, borneol, and 1,8-cineole. The oil possesses anti-inflammatory activity inhibiting NO production. It also inhibits intracellular DCFH oxidation induced by tert-butylhydroperoxide. Anti-inflammatory activity of essential oil appears driven mainly by α-humulene while antioxidant activity is provided by α-pinene and caryophyllene oxide. Essential oil from T vulgare was active against both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus with camphor and caryophyllene oxide responsible for antibacterial activity. Finally, T. vulgare essential oil was slightly cytotoxic against the human healthy cell line WS1 while α-humulene and caryophyllene oxide were moderately cytotoxic against A-549, DLD-1, and WS1. Conclusion: We report, for the first time, links between the specific compounds found in T. vulgare essential oil and anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, and cytotoxic activities. T. vulgare essential oil possesses interesting biological properties.
Table Olive Fermentation Using Starter Cultures with Multifunctional Potential
Authors: Bonatsou Stamatoula , Tassou Chrysoula , Panagou Efstathios , Nychas George-John
Published: May 2017

Table olives are one of the most popular plant-derived fermented products. Their enhanced nutritional value due to the presence of phenolic compounds and monounsaturated fatty acids makes olives an important food commodity of the Mediterranean diet. However, despite its economic significance, table olive fermentation is mainly craft-based and empirically driven by the autochthonous microbiota of the olives depending on various intrinsic and extrinsic factors, leading to a spontaneous process and a final product of variable quality. The use of microorganisms previously isolated from olive fermentations and studied for their probiotic potential and technological characteristics as starter cultures may contribute to the reduction of spoilage risk resulting in a controlled fermentation process. This review focuses on the importance of the development and implementation of multifunctional starter cultures related to olives with desirable probiotic and technological characteristics for possible application on table olive fermentation with the main purpose being the production of a health promoting and sensory improved functional food.
Antinociceptive Effect of the Essential Oil from Croton conduplicatus Kunth (Euphorbiaceae)
Authors: De Oliveira Júnior Raimundo , Ferraz Christiane , Silva Juliane , De Oliveira Ana , Diniz Tâmara , E Silva Mariana , Quintans Júnior Lucindo , De Souza Ana , Dos Santos Uiliane , Turatti Izabel , Lopes Norberto , Lorenzo Vitor , Almeida Jackson
Published: May 2017

Medicinal plants have been widely used in the treatment of chronic pain. In this study, we describe the antinociceptive effect of the essential oil from Croton conduplicatus (the EO 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg, i.p.), a medicinal plant native to Brazil. Antinociceptive activity was investigated by measuring the nociception induced by acetic acid, formalin, hot plate and carrageenan. A docking study was performed with the major constituents of the EO (E-caryophyllene, caryophyllene oxide, and camphor). The EO reduced nociceptive behavior at all doses tested in the acetic acid-induced nociception test (p < 0.05). The same was observed in both phases (neurogenic and inflammatory) of the formalin test. When the hot-plate test was conducted, the EO (50 mg/kg) extended the latency time after 60 min of treatment. The EO also reduced leukocyte migration at all doses, suggesting that its antinociceptive effect involves both central and peripheral mechanisms. Pretreatment with glibenclamide and atropine reversed the antinociceptive effect of the EO on the formalin test, suggesting the involvement of KATP channels and muscarinic receptors. The docking study revealed a satisfactory interaction profile between the major components of the EO and the different muscarinic receptor subtypes (M2, M3, and M4). These results corroborate the medicinal use of C. conduplicatus in folk medicine.
The Antidiabetic Mechanisms of Polyphenols Related to Increased Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP1) and Insulin Signaling
Authors: Domínguez Avila J. , Rodrigo García Joaquín , González Aguilar Gustavo , De la Rosa Laura
Published: May 2017

Type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is an endocrine disease related to impaired/absent insulin signaling. Dietary habits can either promote or mitigate the onset and severity of T2DM. Diets rich in fruits and vegetables have been correlated with a decreased incidence of T2DM, apparently due to their high polyphenol content. Polyphenols are compounds of plant origin with several documented bioactivities related to health promotion. The present review describes the antidiabetic effects of polyphenols, specifically related to the secretion and effects of insulin and glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP1), an enteric hormone that stimulates postprandial insulin secretion. The evidence suggests that polyphenols from various sources stimulate L-cells to secrete GLP1, increase its half-life by inhibiting dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4), stimulate β-cells to secrete insulin and stimulate the peripheral response to insulin, increasing the overall effects of the GLP1-insulin axis. The glucose-lowering potential of polyphenols has been evidenced in various acute and chronic models of healthy and diabetic organisms. Some polyphenols appear to exert their effects similarly to pharmaceutical antidiabetics; thus, rigorous clinical trials are needed to fully validate this claim. The broad diversity of polyphenols has not allowed for entirely describing their mechanisms of action, but the evidence advocates for their regular consumption.
Protective Effect of Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa L.) Extract against Cadmium Impact on the Biomechanical Properties of the Femur: A Study in a Rat Model of Low and Moderate Lifetime Women Exposure to This Heavy Metal
Authors: Brzóska Małgorzata , Roszczenko Alicja , Rogalska Joanna , Gałażyn-Sidorczuk Małgorzata , Mężyńska Magdalena
Published: May 2017

The hypothesis that the consumption of Aronia melanocarpa berries (chokeberries) extract, recently reported by us to improve bone metabolism in female rats at low-level and moderate chronic exposure to cadmium (1 and 5 mg Cd/kg diet for up to 24 months), may increase the bone resistance to fracture was investigated. Biomechanical properties of the neck (bending test with vertical head loading) and diaphysis (three-point bending test) of the femur of rats administered 0.1% aqueous chokeberry extract (65.74% of polyphenols) or/and Cd in the diet (1 and 5 mg Cd/kg) for 3, 10, 17, and 24 months were evaluated. Moreover, procollagen I was assayed in the bone tissue. The low-level and moderate exposure to Cd decreased the procollagen I concentration in the bone tissue and weakened the biomechanical properties of the femoral neck and diaphysis. Chokeberry extract administration under the exposure to Cd improved the bone collagen biosynthesis and femur biomechanical properties. The results allow for the conclusion that the consumption of chokeberry products under exposure to Cd may improve the bone biomechanical properties and protect from fracture. This study provides support for Aronia melanocarpa berries being a promising natural agent for skeletal protection under low-level and moderate chronic exposure to Cd.
Chronic Fructose Ingestion as a Major Health Concern: Is a Sedentary Lifestyle Making It Worse? A Review
Authors: Bidwell Amy
Published: May 2017

Obesity contributes to metabolic abnormalities such as insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and glucose intolerance, all of which are risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome. The growing prevelance of metabolic syndrome seems to be an end result of our current lifestyle which promotes high caloric, high-fat foods and minimal physical activity, resulting in a state of positive energy balance. Increased adiposity and physical inactivity may represent the beginning of the appearance of these risk factors. Understanding the metabolic and cardiovascular disturbances associated with diet and exercise habits is a crucial step towards reducing the risk factors for metabolic syndrome. Although considerable research has been conducted linking chronic fructose ingestion to the increased prevalence of obesity and metabolic syndrome risk factors, these studies have mainly been performed on animals, and/or in a post-absorptive state. Further, the magnitude of the effect of fructose may depend on other aspects of the diet, including the total amount of carbohydrates and fats in the diet and the overall consumption of meals. Therefore, the overall aim of this review paper is to examine the effects of a diet high in fructose on postprandial lipidemia, inflammatory markers and glucose tolerance, all risk factors for diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Moreover, an objective is to investigate whether increased physical activity can alter such effects.
Unfolding Kinetics of a Wormlike Chain under Elongational Flow
Authors: Odijk Theo
Published: May 2017

A simple theory of the unfolding kinetics of a semi-flexible polymer chain is presented in terms of a Kramers type picture for the energy of elongation. The hydrodynamic interactions are discussed in terms of slender body theory. It turns out that the elongation of the chain is basically linear in time and independent of the viscosity. The former prediction agrees with experiments on the stretching dynamics of DNA under planar elongational flow. Nevertheless, the theory overestimates the experimental rate by a significant amount for reasons that are unclear.
Development of a Flexible Artificial Lateral Line Canal System for Hydrodynamic Pressure Detection
Authors: Jiang Yonggang , Ma Zhiqiang , Fu Jianchao , Zhang Deyuan
Published: May 2017

Surface mounted ‘smart skin’ can enhance the situational and environmental awareness of marine vehicles, which requires flexible, reliable, and light-weight hydrodynamic pressure sensors. Inspired by the lateral line canal system in fish, we developed an artificial lateral line (ALL) canal system by integrating cantilevered flow-sensing elements in a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) canal. Polypropylene and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) layers were laminated together to form the cantilevered flow-sensing elements. Both the ALL canal system and its superficial counterpart were characterized using a dipole vibration source. Experimental results showed that the peak frequencies of both the canal and superficial sensors were approximately 110 Hz, which was estimated to be the resonance frequency of the cantilevered flow-sensing element. The proposed ALL canal system demonstrated high-pass filtering capabilities to attenuate low-frequency stimulus and a pressure gradient detection limit of approximately 11 Pa/m at a frequency of 115 ± 1 Hz. Because of its structural flexibility and noise immunity, the proposed ALL canal system shows significant potential for underwater robotics applications.
Adaptive Data Aggregation and Compression to Improve Energy Utilization in Solar-Powered Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Yoon Ikjune , Kim Hyeok , Noh Dong
Published: May 2017

A node in a solar-powered wireless sensor network (WSN) collects energy when the sun shines and stores it in a battery or capacitor for use when no solar power is available, in particular at night. In our scheme, each tiny node in a WSN periodically determines its energy budget, which takes into account its residual energy, and its likely acquisition and consumption. If it expects to acquire more energy than it can store, the data which has it has sensed is aggregated with data from other nodes, compressed, and transmitted. Otherwise, the node continues to sense data, but turns off its wireless communication to reduce energy consumption. We compared several schemes by simulation. Our scheme reduced the number of nodes forced to black out due to lack of energy so that more data arrives at the sink node.
Corrosivity Sensor for Exposed Pipelines Based on Wireless Energy Transfer
Authors: Lawand Lydia , Shiryayev Oleg , Al Handawi Khalil , Vahdati Nader , Rostron Paul
Published: May 2017

External corrosion was identified as one of the main causes of pipeline failures worldwide. A solution that addresses the issue of detecting and quantifying corrosivity of environment for application to existing exposed pipelines has been developed. It consists of a sensing array made of an assembly of thin strips of pipeline steel and a circuit that provides a visual sensor reading to the operator. The proposed sensor is passive and does not require a constant power supply. Circuit design was validated through simulations and lab experiments. Accelerated corrosion experiment was conducted to confirm the feasibility of the proposed corrosivity sensor design.
Multi-Site Simultaneous Time-Resolved Photometry with a Low Cost Electro-Optics System
Authors: Gasdia Forrest , Barjatya Aroh , Bilardi Sergei
Published: May 2017

Sunlight reflected off of resident space objects can be used as an optical signal for astrometric orbit determination and for deducing geometric information about the object. With the increasing population of small satellites and debris in low Earth orbit, photometry is a powerful tool in operational support of space missions, whether for anomaly resolution or object identification. To accurately determine size, shape, spin rate, status of deployables, or attitude information of an unresolved resident space object, multi-hertz sample rate photometry is required to capture the relatively rapid changes in brightness that these objects can exhibit. OSCOM, which stands for Optical tracking and Spectral characterization of CubeSats for Operational Missions, is a low cost and portable telescope system capable of time-resolved small satellite photometry, and is field deployable on short notice for simultaneous observation from multiple sites. We present the electro-optical design principles behind OSCOM and light curves of the 1.5 U DICE-2 CubeSat and simultaneous observations of the main body of the ASTRO-H satellite after its fragmentation event.
Why Are Naturally Ventilated Office Spaces Not Popular in New Zealand?
Authors: Rasheed Eziaku , Byrd Hugh , Money Blair , Mbachu Jasper , Egbelakin Temtiope
Published: May 2017

In this paper, we investigated the reason(s) why natural ventilation is not as popular as air-conditioned or mixed-mode ventilation systems in Green-rated office buildings in New Zealand. To achieve this, we had three objectives. Firstly, we reviewed the Green Star criteria for thermal comfort in office buildings to ascertain which ventilation system the NZ Green Star rating tool promotes. Secondly, we ascertained the perception of occupants in office buildings regarding thermal comfort. This was followed by an interview with building experts regarding factors that affect the use of natural ventilation in New Zealand offices. The findings showed that the NZ Green Star thermal comfort criteria encourage the use of mechanical ventilation over natural ventilation which results in designers opting for air conditioning systems in office designs. We observed that occupants of naturally ventilated spaces were least satisfied with the thermal comfort of their offices when compared with occupants of mixed-mode and air-conditioned offices. This study fulfils the need to encourage the use of natural ventilation in office environments by designers and building owners. Further study on other aspects of the indoor environment quality that is related to naturally ventilated systems such as lighting and noise is required in a bid to ascertain its viability in office environments.
Potentials for Improvement of Resource Efficiency in Printed Circuit Board Manufacturing: A Case Study Based on Material Flow Cost Accounting
Authors: Wang Yi-Xuan , Kuo Chien-Hung , Song Rui , Hu Allen , Zhang Shu-Shen
Published: May 2017

The pursuit of sustainable resource use by manufacturing companies is driven by resource scarcity, environmental awareness, and cost savings potentials. To address these issues, Material Flow Cost Accounting (MFCA) has been developed and applied as an effective environmental management tool. Within MFCA’s general allocation, the accounts of products and losses are overrated by weight or volume. However, such a method is incompatible with Printed Circuit Board (PCB) manufacturing because of industry characteristics in which primary inputs and products are measured by area. Based on MFCA, this case study systematically established several linear cost calculation models along the production process for capturing the actual waste flows as well as performing cost-benefit analysis. The recognition of previously ignored losses offered the incentive to find appropriate indicators to conduct cost-benefit analysis on hotspots for losses. Loss identification and analysis indicated that machining and wiring are the necessities and priorities of process optimization for resource efficiency improvement measures. Therefore, this research could not only advance the achievement of a profitable and sustainable production while improving resource efficiency at the source but could also provide support for decision making in PCB manufacturing.
Maxwell–Wagner Effect in Multi-Layered Dielectrics: Interfacial Charge Measurement and Modelling
Authors: Vu Thi Thu Nga , Teyssedre Gilbert , Roy Séverine Le , Laurent Christian
Published: May 2017

The development of high voltage direct current (HVDC) technologies generates new paradigms in research. In particular and contrary to the AC case, investigation of electrical conduction is not only needed for understanding the dielectric breakdown but also to describe the field distribution inside the insulation. Here, we revisit the so-called Maxwell–Wagner effect in multi-layered dielectrics by considering on the one hand a non-linear field dependent model of conductivity and on the other hand by performing space charge measurements giving access to the interfacial charge accumulated between different dielectrics. We show that space charge measurements give access to the amount of interfacial charge built-up by the Maxwell–Wagner effect between two dielectrics of different natures. Measurements also demonstrate that the field distribution undergoes a transition from a capacitive distribution to a resistive one, under long lasting stress.
Inhibitory Activities of Blasticidin S Derivatives on Aflatoxin Production by Aspergillus Flavus
Authors: Yoshinari Tomoya , Sugita-Konishi Yoshiko , Ohnishi Takahiro , Terajima Jun
Published: May 2017

Blasticidin S (BcS) is a protein synthesis inhibitor which shows strong growth inhibitory activity against a number of microorganisms. However, BcS inhibited aflatoxin production by Aspergillus flavus without affecting its growth. In order to obtain information about the structure–activity relationship of BcS as an aflatoxin production inhibitor, BcS derivatives were prepared and their aflatoxin production inhibitory activities were evaluated. Among five derivatives, blasticidin S carboxymethyl ester, deaminohydroxyblasticidin S, and pyrimidinoblasticidin S showed inhibitory activity, while the others did not. The IC50 value for aflatoxin production of the carboxymethyl ester derivative was one-fifth of that of BcS although their antimicrobial activities were almost the same. These results indicate that the inhibitory activity of BcS against aflatoxin production was enhanced by esterification of its carboxyl group and that the carboxymethyl ester derivative might be more suitable for practical use than BcS because of the specificity of the carboxymethyl ester derivative, which inhibited aflatoxin production more than BcS.
Radio Pulse Search and X-Ray Monitoring of SAX J1808.4−3658: What Causes Its Orbital Evolution?
Authors: Patruno Alessandro , Jaodand Amruta , Kuiper Lucien , Bult Peter , Hessels Jason W. T. , Knigge Christian , King Andrew R. , Wijnands Rudy , van der Klis Michiel
Published: May 2017

The accreting millisecond X-ray pulsar SAX J1808.4−3658 shows a peculiar orbital evolution that proceeds at a very fast pace. It is important to identify the underlying mechanism responsible for this behavior because it can help to understand how this system evolves and which physical processes (such as mass loss or spin–orbit coupling) are occurring in the binary. It has also been suggested that, when in quiescence, SAX J1808.4−3658 turns on as a radio pulsar, a circumstance that might provide a link between accreting millisecond pulsars and black-widow (BW) radio pulsars. In this work, we report the results of a deep radio pulsation search at 2 GHz using the Green Bank Telescope in 2014 August and an X-ray study of the 2015 outburst with Chandra, Swift XRT, and INTEGRAL. In quiescence, we detect no radio pulsations and place the strongest limit to date on the pulsed radio flux density of any accreting millisecond pulsar. We also find that the orbit of SAX J1808.4−3658 continues evolving at a fast pace. We compare the orbital evolution of SAX J1808.4−3658 to that of several other accreting and nonaccreting binaries, including BWs, redbacks, cataclysmic variables, black holes, and neutron stars in low-mass X-ray binaries. We discuss two possible scenarios: either the neutron star has a large moment of inertia and is ablating the donor, generating mass loss with an efficiency of 40%, or the donor star has a strong magnetic field of at least 1 kG and is undergoing quasi-cyclic variations due to spin–orbit coupling.
Chapitre 4. Encadrement institutionnel de la recherche dans trois pays d’Afrique subsaharienne
Authors: Kedoté N. M. , Salami A. , Tsala Tsala J. P. , Grimaud M. A. , Bergeron M. , Fayomi Benjamin
Published: May 2017

Cet article présente l’état des lieux de l’encadrement institutionnel de la recherche en Afrique subsaharienne, en particulier au Bénin, Cameroun et Nigéria. Concernant la méthodologie, une revue documentaire a porté sur les régulations afin d’apprécier la régulation du cadre institutionnel. Ensuite, 28 entrevues semi-dirigées ont été faites auprès des membres de comités d’éthique pour évaluer leur composition et leur mode de fonctionnement. Enfin, nous avons décrit les cours existant d’éthique de la recherche dans les programmes de premier, deuxième et troisième cycles dans les principales universités. En termes d’encadrement, tous les pays disposent d’instruments normatifs et de comités fonctionnels d’éthique qui posent l’essence même de l’éthique de la recherche en santé. Néanmoins, les comités d’éthique rencontrent plusieurs difficultés dont principalement le manque de financement, la formation des membres et la question de l’évaluation des recherches qualitatives et mixtes.
Reynaldo Hahn et le chant significatif : réflexions intersémiotiques sur la musique vocale et la pratique de la comédie musicale
Authors: de Villeneuve Roselyne
Published: May 2017

Pour ce musicien « littéraire » qu’est Reynaldo Hahn, le concept de « voix parlée du chant » s’inscrit dans une tentative de modélisation de la musique par la langue doublement articulée, la langue venant parfaire la configuration sémiotique de la musique afin d’amplifier son effet pragmatique. En retour, la musique explore et révèle les virtualités « étymologiques » du mot. Grâce à cette synergie, la musique agence des unités signifiantes, dont la fonctionnalité est contextuelle (non prédéfinie). C’est ce que prouve l’étude de l’hétérogénéité énonciative dans un air de O mon bel inconnu (1933) : la dialogisation est exhibée par la structure tonale tandis que l’ironie est marquée par l’opposition entre les grands intervalles et le recto tono ou la cadence d’autre part, ainsi que dans l’écriture par imitation ou le traitement musical de la syllepse sémantique.
Fragilisation de la fonction narrative et impasses du sujet
Authors: Pirone Ilaria
Published: May 2017

Résumé En suivant le fil narratif proposé par Paul Ricœur, l’auteur analyse certaines impasses de l’“imaginaire narratif” d’enfants et d’adolescents, comme l’expression d’une forme de fragilisation de la “fonction narrative” propre à notre contemporanéité. Ces difficultés conduisent l’auteur à proposer l’idée que le récit change, se modifie, mais la fonction fictionnelle constitutive de l’existence, notre besoin narratif, persiste.
Bertrand Russell, philosophe de l’éducation
Authors: Mosconi Nicole
Published: May 2017

Résumé Bertrand Russell (1872-1970), célèbre par sa philosophie des mathématiques et de la connaissance, l’est aussi par sa philosophie morale et politique, dont sa philosophie de l’éducation est une pièce centrale. À travers ses deux livres, On education, especially in early childhood (1926) – qui traite de l’éducation du jeune enfant et qui défend, dans la scolarisation, une instruction rénovée – et Education and the social order (1932) – qui est une réflexion politique plus large sur ce que devrait être « l’éducation dans une société moderne », industrielle et démocratique – j’examinerai d’abord la philosophie morale et politique qui fonde sa philosophie de l’éducation et l’influence qu’a exercée sur celle-ci le mouvement anglais de l’“éducation nouvelle” ; puis sa conception des rapports, dans l’éducation, entre liberté et autorité et, plus largement, des rapports entre éducation et société ; enfin, ses conceptions pro-féministes en faveur de la co-éducation, de la co-instruction et d’une égale éducation sexuelle des deux sexes.
Genomic diversity and immunomodulatory activity of Lactobacillus plantarum isolated from dairy products
Authors: Zago M. , Scaltriti E. , Bonvini B. , Fornasari M.E. , Penna G. , Massimiliano L. , Carminati D. , Rescigno M. , Giraffa G.
Published: May 2017

In this study, we aimed to investigate some functional characteristics and the immunomodulatory properties of three strains of Lactobacillus plantarum of dairy origin which, in a previous screening, showed to be candidate probiotics. Genome sequencing and comparative genomics, which confirmed the presence of genes involved in folate and riboflavin production and in the immune response of dendritic cells (DCs), prompted us to investigate the ability of the three strains to accumulate the two vitamins and their immunomodulation properties. The ability of the three strains to release antioxidant components in milk was also investigated. Small amounts of folate and riboflavin were produced by the three strains, while they showed a good antioxidant capacity in milk with FRAP method. The immune response experiments well correlated with the presence of candidate genes influencing in DCs cytokine response to L. plantarum. Specifically, the amounts of secreted cytokins by DCs after stimulation with cells of Lp790, Lp813 and Lp998 resulted pro-inflammatory whereas stimulation with culture supernatants (postbiotics) inhibited the release of interleukin (IL)-12p70 and increased the release of the anti-inflammatory IL-10 cytokine. This study adds further evidence on the importance of L. plantarum in human health. Understanding how probiotics (or postbiotics) work in preclinical models can allow a rational choice of the different strains for clinical and/or commercial use.
Medication Adherence Interventions for Older Adults With Heart Failure: A Systematic Review
Authors: Andrews Angela M. , Russell Cynthia L. , Cheng An-Lin
Published: May 2017

Medication adherence is crucial in patients with heart failure; however, the rate of medication nonadherence in the heart failure population is 50%, making it a significant problem. The purpose of the current review was to summarize intervention studies designed to improve medication adherence in older adults with heart failure. A search was conducted to locate randomized controlled trials or quasi-experimental studies that tested interventions to improve medication adherence in patients 45 or older with heart failure. Five of eight studies (63%) showed a statistically significant improvement in medication adherence in intervention groups. Five of these six studies used a combination of educational, behavioral, and affective interventions, and focused on medication adherence alone versus multiple health behaviors. Interventions using combined approaches and focusing only on medication adherence show the most promise for future studies. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 43
(10), 37-45.]
Voicing Ageism in Nursing Home Dementia Care
Authors: Williams Kristine , Shaw Clarissa , Lee Alexandria , Kim Sohyun , Dinneen Emma , Turk Margaret , Jao Ying-Ling , Liu Wen
Published: May 2017

Elderspeak (i.e., infantilizing communication) is a common form of ageism that has been linked to resistiveness to care in nursing home residents with dementia. Nursing home staff use elderspeak by modifying speech with older residents based on negative stereotypes, which results in patronizing communication that provides a message of incompetence. The purpose of the current secondary analysis was to describe communication practices used by nursing home staff that reflect ageism. Transcripts of 80 video recordings of staff–resident communication collected during nursing home care activities were re-analyzed to identify specific elderspeak patterns, including diminutives, collective pronouns, tag questions, and reflectives. Elderspeak was used in 84% of transcripts, and specifically during bathing, dressing, oral care, and other activities. Collective pronoun substitution occurred most frequently—in 69% of recorded conversations. Subgroup analysis of the inappropriate terms of endearment found that “honey”/”hon” and “sweetheart”/”sweetie” were most commonly used. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 43
(9), 16–20.]
Establishing a Student-Centered Environment to Support All Learners
Authors: Basham James D. , Stahl Skip , Hall Tracey , Carter Jr. Richard Allen
Published: May 2017

Within this chapter, technology-enhanced personalized learning is highlighted as a model for supporting all students in an inclusionary setting. Content of the chapter is focused on the birth, development, growth, and the eventual demise of a student-centered-model in one turn-around school district. The chapter focuses on the interplay of teacher methods and expectations; the impact of real-time progress data by students and teachers, and the points of contact where innovation collided with the expectations of traditional education practice. The authors also discuss various political elements that emerged as a result of the turnaround process. Finally, elements of the roles of teachers, technology, data, self-regulated learning, and competency-based education are discussed relative to establishing a student-centered learning environment.
Resenha – IBEX 35: una historia herética del poder en España de Rubén Juste
Authors: Paula Guilherme Tadeu de
Published: May 2017

JUSTE, Rubén. IBEX 35: una historia herética del poder en España, Capitán Swing Libros, Madrid, 2017, 330p.
Comparing the effect of cardiac biomarkers on the outcome of normotensive patients with acute pulmonary embolism
Authors: Jenab Yaser , Pourjafari Marzieh , Sotoudeh Maryam , Lotfi-tokaldany Masoumeh , Etesamifard Nasrin , Shirani Shapour , Jalali Arash , Nozari Younes , Poorhosseini Hamid-reza
Published: May 2017

Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is a cardiovascular challenge with potentially fatal consequences. This study was designed to observe the association of novel cardiac biomarkers with outcome in this setting. In this prospective study, from 86 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of PE, 59 patients met the inclusion criteria (22 men, 37 women; mean age, 63.36Â±15.04 y).The plasma concentrations of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15), heart-type fatty acid-binding protein (H-FABP), tenascin-C, and D-dimer were measured at the time of confirmed diagnosis. The endpoints of the study were defined as the short-term adverse outcome and long-term all-cause mortality. Totally, 11.8% (7/59) of the patients had the short-term adverse outcome. The mean value of logNT-proBNP was 6.40Â±1.66 pg/ml. Among all the examined biomarkers, only the mean value of logNT-proBNP was significantly higher in the patients with the short-term adverse outcome (7.88Â±0.67 vs. 6.22Â± 1.66 pg/ml; OR, 2.359; 95% CI, 1.037 to 5.367; P=0.041). After adjustment, a threefold increase in the short-term adverse outcome was identified (OR, 3.239; 95% CI, 0.877 to 11.967; P=0.078).Overall, 18.64% (11/59) of the patients had expired by the long-term follow-up. Moreover, adjustment revealed an evidence regarding association between increased logNT-proBNP levels and long-term mortality (HR, 2.163; 95%CI, 0.910 to 5.142; P=0.081). Our study could find evidences on association between increased level of NT-proBNP and short-term adverse outcome and/or long-term mortality in PE. This biomarker may be capable of improving prediction of outcome and clinical care in non-high-risk PE.
Unusual symptomatic late onset presentation of aberrant right subclavian artery: report of two cases and short literature review
Authors: Dimitroglou Yannis , Loulakas Ioannis , Chounti Maria , Megalakakis Michail , Karavana Eleni , Hountis Panagiotis
Published: May 2017

Aberrant subclavian arteries are congenital vascular anomalies that usually do not cause any symptoms. When symptomatic they are considered as a rare cause of dysphagia. This presentation is known as dysphagia lusoria. They are diagnosed by barium swallow or contrast-enhanced computed tomography, although it may be an incidental finding. Management varies from life modifications and drug therapy to surgical intervention. We report two cases of the unusual form of late onset symptomatic presentation because of the presence of aberrant right subclavian artery. Main symptom was chest pain without dysphagia. Due to age and medical comorbidities both patients where managed conservatively.
Hamman-Rich syndrome: a forgotten entity
Authors: Newmarch William , Puopolo Angelica , Weiler Madina , Casserly Brian
Published: May 2017

The following report outlines the case of a 76-year-old gentleman who presented to the hospital with acute interstitial pneumonitis, a rare and rapidly progressive type of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia. The patient initially presented with a three-week history of progressive shortness of breath and cough which was diagnosed as community acquired pneumonia. Treatment with oral antibiotics was unsuccessful resulting in re-presentation the following week with type one respiratory failure. Investigations revealed widespread inflammatory changes consistent with an acute inflammatory process. Intravenous steroids, antibiotics and antiviral medications were initiated before an urgent transfer to the intensive care unit was required for intubation. An open lung biopsy, in conjunction with the clinical picture, confirmed the diagnosis of acute interstitial pneumonitis. The significance of this report is to highlight the rapid and destructive clinical course of a rare type of pneumonitis, which initially presented as a routine and innocuous diagnosis in our patient.
Recurrence of right lower lobe pneumonia 3 years after the first episode in an otherwise healthy 13-year-old girl
Authors: Capizzi Antonino , Sacco Oliviero , Rossi Giovanni A. , Silvestri Michela
Published: May 2017

Recurrent pneumonia is one of the most frequent reasons for referral to paediatric chest physicians. The diagnostic work-up is dependent on whether infection repeatedly occurs in the same lung lobe, or affects multiple lobes and/or different areas in different episodes. A 13-year-old girl was admitted with a second episode of right lower lobe pneumonia. The chest x-ray demonstrated an inhomogeneous opacity, without a clearly recognizable segmental distribution. A contrast-enhanced CT scan, was therefore performed that showed a polycyclic consolidation with blood supply from a systemic artery, originated from the thoracic aorta. A diagnosis of superinfection of an intralobar sequestration was made. The patient was treated with systemic antibiotics and, four weeks later, a segmental resection of the lesion was performed. The histological evaluation of the surgical specimen confirmed the diagnosis.Â
A new deal for the Monaldi Archives for Chest Disease
Authors: Editors The
Published: May 2017

The Editors:Â Antonio Spanevello, Bruno Balbi, Francesco Fattirolli, Furio Colivicchi.This issue marks a change in the Editorial Board of Monaldi Archives for Chest Disease. We would like to take this opportunity to impart some news on the current status of the journal. Our submissions are increasing, citations to our papers are rising, and recognition of the journal is broadening. Overall, 2016 has been a good year for the journal. Several changes are being made and several more are coming soon. Yet, focussing on the results achieved only is not our main goal, hence we now direct our efforts toward reaching an even greater impact.
Waterbird flight initiation distances at Barberspan Bird Sanctuary, South Africa
Authors: Coetzer Carina , Bouwman Hindrik
Published: May 2017

With tourism in South Africa expanding, the number of avitourists increases. The increase in infrastructure and human activities in protected areas, if not managed properly, can be harmful to birds. Flight initiation distances (FID) can be used as a method to monitor habituation to disturbances. This study was performed at the Barberspan Bird Sanctuary, North West province, South Africa, to determine the levels of habituation among waterbirds and make appropriate recommendations regarding the management of the reserve. Our results indicated a 0.29 m increase in FID per gram reported mean biomass. Compared with conspecific or congeneric birds from Australia, Europe and North America, South African birds have relatively larger FIDs to human disturbance, which may indicate lower habituation. We also calculated buffer zones based on the maximum FID of the waterbirds for three mass groups. These buffer zones were then matched with the spatial distribution of the birds along the shoreline. We recommend that the mean FID for the blacksmith lapwing, Vanellus armatus (62 m), can be used as approach distance outside the breeding season in areas where the birds are sparsely distributed and 104 m during the breeding season in breeding areas. A large buffer of 200 m is suggested for areas with threatened, sensitive and skittish species. However, it is still preferable for avitourists to use the bird hides along the shores.Conservation implications: This study provides information for conservation management at Barberspan, based on typical birder activity. Smaller birds would need smaller buffer zones, while larger birds need much greater distances from observers to minimise disturbance. Similar studies can be applied elsewhere.