bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probiotic Bacteria for Healthier Aging: Immunomodulation and Metabolism of Phytoestrogens
Authors: Landete José María , Gaya Pilar , Rodríguez Eva , Langa Susana , Peirotén Ángela , Medina Margarita , Arqués Juan L.
Published: October 2017

Age-related degeneration gives rise to a number of pathologies, many of them associated with imbalances of the microbiota and the gut-associated immune system. Thus, the intestine is considered a key target organ to improve the quality of life in senescence. Gut microbiota can have a powerful impact in the deterioration linked to aging by its nutritional and immunomodulatory activity. Reduced numbers of beneficial species and low microbial biodiversity in the elderly have been linked with pathogenesis of many diseases. A healthy lifestyle with an elderly customized diet including probiotics can contribute to reducing the chronic proinflammatory status and other age-related pathologies. Beneficial effects of probiotic lactic acid bacteria and bifidobacteria to alleviate some of these disorders based on their immunomodulatory properties as well as their capacity to produce bioactive metabolites from dietary phytoestrogens are summarized. On one hand, the preservation of gut barrier integrity and an increased ability to fight infections are the main reported immune benefits of probiotics. On the other hand, the intake of a diet rich in phytoestrogens along with the presence of selected probiotic bacteria may lead to the production of equol, enterolignans, and urolithins, which are considered protective against chronic diseases related to aging.
PDE5 Overexpression in Well-Differentiated Thyroid Carcinomas Is Associated with Lymph Node Metastasis
Authors: Zhang Ning , Fang Zeng , Li Qiufang , Wang Kebing , Li Songqi , Li Wen , Wang Shenming
Published: October 2017

Overexpression of PDE5 is observed in certain human cancers, but PDE5 expression in well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma (WDTC) is unknown. We therefore examined PDE5 expression and its relationship with the clinicopathological features of WDTC. Real-time qPCR and Western blotting were performed to analyze the expression of PDE5 mRNA and protein in paired WDTC tumor and adjacent nontumor tissues. Immunohistochemistry was used to analyze the expression of PDE5 in paraffin-embedded tissues obtained from 103 cases of WDTC. Statistical analyses were performed to examine the correlation between PDE5 expression and clinicopathological features. The expression of PDE5 mRNA and protein was upregulated in WDTC lesions compared to their paired noncancerous tissues. The expression of PDE5 was significantly correlated with age (P=0.032), regional lymph node status (P=0.004), and the presence of distant metastasis (P=0.020). High PDE5 expression was more closely associated with lymph node involvement in patients over 45 years (OR = 15.60,P≤0.05). Thus, PDE5 may be a potential biomarker in WDTC, particularly in patients with regional lymph node metastasis, which is associated with disease recurrence, treatment failure, and morbidity. PDE5 expression may also help predict the prognosis and recurrence of WDTC after surgery.
Transition from Deep Regional Blocks toward Deep Nerve Hydrodissection in the Upper Body and Torso: Method Description and Results from a Retrospective Chart Review of the Analgesic Effect of 5% Dextrose Water as the Primary Hydrodissection Injectate to Enhance Safety
Authors: Lam Stanley K. H. , Reeves Kenneth Dean , Cheng An-Lin
Published: October 2017

Deep nerve hydrodissection uses fluid injection under pressure to purposely separate nerves from areas of suspected fascial compression, which are increasingly viewed as potential perpetuating factors in recalcitrant neuropathic pain/complex regional pain. The usage of 5% dextrose water (D5W) as a primary injectate for hydrodissection, with or without low dose anesthetic, could limit anesthetic-related toxicity. An analgesic effect of 5% dextrose water (D5W) upon perineural injection in patients with chronic neuropathic pain has recently been described. Here we describe ultrasound-guided methods for hydrodissection of deep nerve structures in the upper torso, including the stellate ganglion, brachial plexus, cervical nerve roots, and paravertebral spaces. We retrospectively reviewed the outcomes of 100 hydrodissection treatments in 26 consecutive cases with a neuropathic pain duration of16±12.2months and the mean Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) 0–10 pain level of8.3±1.3. The mean percentage of analgesia during each treatment session involving D5W injection without anesthetic was 88.1%  ±  9.8%. The pretreatment Numeric Pain Rating Scale score of8.3±1.3improved to1.9±0.9at 2 months after the last treatment. Patients received3.8±2.6treatments over9.7±7.8months from the first treatment to the 2-month posttreatment follow-up. Pain improvement exceeded 50% in all cases and 75% in half. Our results confirm the analgesic effect of D5W injection and suggest that hydrodissection using D5W provides cumulative pain reduction.
Late Onset Streptococcus agalactiae Meningitis following Early Onset Septicemia: A Preventable Disease?
Authors: Hon Kam Lun , Chan King Hang , Ko Pak Long , So King Woon , Leung Alexander K. C.
Published: October 2017

We report a neonate who presented with early onset Streptococcus agalactiae or group B streptococcus (GBS) septicemia within 24 hours of birth. After discharge at day 14, she went on to develop late onset GBS meningitis at 36 days of age. The infant was treated with intravenous antibiotics on both occasions and eventually discharged home with no apparent sequelae. We address issues associated with GBS infection in infancy including the demographics, risk factors, and the risk of late onset GBS meningitis following an early onset GBS infection. The major source of GBS in early onset GBS disease is maternal birth canal GBS colonization. On the other hand, nosocomial cross-infection is an important source of GBS in late onset disease. Penicillin remains the current treatment of choice for GBS infection. Given the rapid onset and progression within hours of birth and lack of an effective solution for preventing late onset GBS, administration of an effective GBS vaccine in pregnancy could provide a sensible and cost-effective solution in all settings.
Autologous Bone Marrow-Derived Stem Cells for Treating Diabetic Neuropathy in Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Liu Wei , Yu Fengchun , Zhou Zhenghong , Li Yi-Chen , Fan Dongsheng , Zhu Kai
Published: October 2017

Diabetic neuropathy is one of the most common and serious complications of diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome. The current therapy strategies, including glucose control and pain management, are not effective for most patients. Growing evidence suggests that infiltration of inflammation factors and deficiency of local neurotrophic and angiogenic factors contribute significantly to the pathologies of diabetic neuropathy. Experimental and clinical studies have shown that bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMCs) therapy represents a novel and promising strategy for tissue repair through paracrine secretion of multiple cytokines, which has a potential to inhibit inflammation and promote angiogenesis and neurotrophy in diabetic neuropathy. In this review, we discuss the clinical practice in diabetic neuropathy and the therapeutic effect of BMC. We subsequently illustrate the functional impairment of autologous BMCs due to the interrupted bone marrow niche in diabetic neuropathy. We anticipate that the functional restoration of BMCs could improve their therapeutic effect and enable their wide applications in diabetic neuropathy.
Processing Challenges and Opportunities of Camel Dairy Products
Authors: Berhe Tesfemariam , Seifu Eyassu , Ipsen Richard , Kurtu Mohamed Y. , Hansen Egon Bech
Published: October 2017

A review on the challenges and opportunities of processing camel milk into dairy products is provided with an objective of exploring the challenges of processing and assessing the opportunities for developing functional products from camel milk. The gross composition of camel milk is similar to bovine milk. Nonetheless, the relative composition, distribution, and the molecular structure of the milk components are reported to be different. Consequently, manufacturing of camel dairy products such as cheese, yoghurt, or butter using the same technology as for dairy products from bovine milk can result in processing difficulties and products of inferior quality. However, scientific evidence points to the possibility of transforming camel milk into products by optimization of the processing parameters. Additionally, camel milk has traditionally been used for its medicinal values and recent scientific studies confirm that it is a rich source of bioactive, antimicrobial, and antioxidant substances. The current literature concerning product design and functional potential of camel milk is fragmented in terms of time, place, and depth of the research. Therefore, it is essential to understand the fundamental features of camel milk and initiate detailed multidisciplinary research to fully explore and utilize its functional and technological properties.
Computer-Aided Cobb Measurement Based on Automatic Detection of Vertebral Slopes Using Deep Neural Network
Authors: Zhang Junhua , Li Hongjian , Lv Liang , Zhang Yufeng
Published: October 2017

Objective. To develop a computer-aided method that reduces the variability of Cobb angle measurement for scoliosis assessment. Methods. A deep neural network (DNN) was trained with vertebral patches extracted from spinal model radiographs. The Cobb angle of the spinal curve was calculated automatically from the vertebral slopes predicted by the DNN. Sixty-five in vivo radiographs and 40 model radiographs were analyzed. An experienced surgeon performed manual measurements on the aforementioned radiographs. Two examiners used both the proposed and the manual measurement methods to analyze the aforementioned radiographs. Results. For model radiographs, the intraclass correlation coefficients were greater than 0.98, and the mean absolute differences were less than 3°. This indicates that the proposed system showed high repeatability for measurements of model radiographs. For the in vivo radiographs, the reliabilities were lower than those from the model radiographs, and the differences between the computer-aided measurement and the manual measurement by the surgeon were higher than 5°. Conclusion. The variability of Cobb angle measurements can be reduced if the DNN system is trained with enough vertebral patches. Training data of in vivo radiographs must be included to improve the performance of DNN. Significance. Vertebral slopes can be predicted by DNN. The computer-aided system can be used to perform automatic measurements of Cobb angle, which is used to make reliable and objective assessments of scoliosis.
Normalized Study of Three-Parameter System in the Time Domain and Frequency Domain
Authors: Jiao Xiao-Lei , Zhao Yang , Ma Wen-Lai
Published: October 2017

Three-parameter isolation system can be used to isolate microvibration for control moment gyroscopes. Normalized analytical model for three-parameter system in the time domain and frequency domain is proposed by using analytical method. Dynamic behavior of three-parameter system in the time domain and frequency domain is studied. Response in the time domain under different types of excitations is analyzed. In this paper, a regulatory factor is defined in order to analyze dynamic behavior in the frequency domain. For harmonic excitation, a comparison study is made on isolation performance between the case when the system has optimal damping and the case when regulatory factor is 1. Besides, phase margin of three-parameter system is obtained. Results show that dynamic behavior in the time domain and frequency domain changes with regulatory factor. Phase margin has the largest value when the value of regulatory factor is 1. System under impulse excitation and step excitation has the shortest settling time for the response in the time domain when the value of regulatory factor is 1. When stiffness ratio is small, isolation performances of two cases are nearly the same; when system has a large stiffness ratio, isolation performance of the first case is better.
Psychotropic Effects of an Alcoholic Extract from the Leaves of Albizia zygia (Leguminosae‐Mimosoideae)
Authors: Amoateng Patrick , Osei-Safo Dorcas , Kukuia Kennedy Kwami Edem , Adjei Samuel , Akure Obed Awintuma , Agbemelo-Tsomafo Constance , Adu-Poku Shirley Nyarko , Agyeman-Badu Kenneth Yaw
Published: October 2017

Background. Albizia zygia is used in Ghanaian traditional medicine for the management of mental disorders. The present study tested the hypothesis that an extract of the leaves of Albizia zygia (AZE) may possess antipsychotic and antidepressant properties. Method. The novelty‐ and apomorphine‐induced locomotor and rearing behaviours of AZE in mice were explored in an open‐field observational test system. The effects of AZE in apomorphine‐induced cage climbing test, extract‐induced catalepsy, and haloperidol‐induced catalepsy on mice were also investigated. Lastly, the forced swimming and tail suspension tests in mice were employed to screen the possible antidepressant effects of AZE. Results. AZE (100–3000 mg/kg) showed signs of central nervous system (CNS) depression under observation, with no lethality, 24 h after treatment in mice. AZE (100–1000 mg/kg) produced a significant decrease in the frequency of novelty‐ and apomorphine‐induced locomotor activities in mice. The extract also significantly decreased the frequency and duration of apomorphine‐induced climbing activities in mice. AZE, while failing to produce any cataleptic event in naïve mice, significantly enhanced haloperidol‐induced catalepsy at a dose of 1000 mg/kg. However, AZE did not produce any significant antidepressant effects in the test models employed. Conclusion. The extract of Albizia zygia exhibited an antipsychotic‐like activity in mice.
Torque Ripple Minimization in PMSM Based on an Indirect Adaptive Robust Controller
Authors: Tao Ruichao , Ma Jie , Zhao Hui
Published: October 2017

This paper addresses the problem of torque ripple minimization in permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM), which plays an important role in modern aerospace industry. Accurate motion control and disturbance compensation are challenging issues of PMSM systems, where the nonlinear disturbances are quite complicated and various uncertainties exist. To overcome these control problems, based on the adaptive robust control (ARC) algorithm, an indirect adaptive robust controller (IARC) with a robust recursive least square (RRLS) adaption law is proposed as a solution. A modified PMSM model which indicates the torque ripple generation is first derived. The IARC in current loop is then described, holding the good tracking performance of ARC algorithm and minimizing the torque ripples while speed tracking. The RRLS adaption law in IARC is synthesized based on modified model and then a correction factor is added to enhance the robustness of this adaptation law. This can enable the better parametric estimation and adaptive compensation to minimize the torque ripples. The stability of the system with the proposed controller is proved. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated by the simulation results.
Effect of Indium Additions on the Formation of Interfacial Intermetallic Phases and the Wettability at Sn-Zn-In/Cu Interfaces
Authors: Pstruś Janusz , Gancarz Tomasz , Fima Przemyslaw
Published: October 2017

The wettability of copper substrates by Sn-Zn eutectic solder alloy doped with 0, 0.5, 1, and 1.5 at.% of indium was studied using the sessile drop method, with flux, in air, at 250°C and reflow time of 3, 8, 15, 30, and 60 min. Wetting tests were performed at 230, 250, 280, 320, and 370°C for an alloy containing 1.5 at.% of indium, in order to determine activation energy of diffusion. Solidified solder/substrate couples were studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the intermetallic phases from Cu-Zn system which formed at the solder/substrate interface were identified, and their growth kinetics was investigated. The ε-CuZn4 was formed first, as a product of the reaction between liquid solder and the Cu substrate, whereas γ-Cu5Zn8 was formed as a product of the reaction between ε-CuZn4 and the Cu substrate. With increasing wetting time, the thickness of ε-CuZn4 increases, while the thickness of ε-CuZn4 does not change over time for indium-doped solders and gradually disappears over time for Sn-Zn eutectic solder.
Mechano-Signal Transduction in Mesenchymal Stem Cells Induces Prosaposin Secretion to Drive the Proliferation of Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Ishihara Seiichiro , Inman David R. , Li Wan-Ju , Ponik Suzanne M. , Keely Patricia J.
Published: October 2017

In response to chemical stimuli from cancer cells, mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) can differentiate into cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) and promote tumor progression. How mechanical stimuli such as stiffness of the extracellular matrix (ECM) contribute to MSC phenotype in cancer remains poorly understood. Here, we show that ECM stiffness leads to mechano-signal transduction in MSC, which promotes mammary tumor growth in part through secretion of the signaling protein prosaposin. On a stiff matrix, MSC cultured with conditioned media from mammary cancer cells expressed increased levels of α-smooth muscle actin, a marker of CAF, compared with MSC cultured on a soft matrix. By contrast, MSC cultured on a stiff matrix secreted prosaposin that promoted proliferation and survival of mammary carcinoma cells but inhibited metastasis. Our findings suggest that in addition to chemical stimuli, increased stiffness of the ECM in the tumor microenvironment induces differentiation of MSC to CAF, triggering enhanced proliferation and survival of mammary cancer cells. Cancer Res; 77(22); 6179–89. ©2017 AACR.
Multiregional Sequencing Reveals Genomic Alterations and Clonal Dynamics in Primary Malignant Melanoma of the Esophagus
Authors: Li Jingjing , Yan Shi , Liu Zhen , Zhou Yong , Pan Yaqi , Yuan WenQin , Liu Mengfei , Tan Qin , Tian Geng , Dong Bin , Cai Hong , Wu Nan , Ke Yang
Published: October 2017

Primary malignant melanoma of the esophagus (PMME) is a rare and aggressive disease with high tendency of metastasis. To characterize the genetic basis and intratumor heterogeneity of PMME, we performed multiregion exome sequencing and whole genome SNP array genotyping of 12 samples obtained from a patient with PMME. High intratumor heterogeneity was observed in both somatic mutation and copy-number alteration levels. Nine geographically separate samples including two normal samples were clonally related and followed a branched evolution model. Most putative oncogenic drivers such as BRAF and KRAS mutations as well as CDKN2A biallelic inactivation were observed in trunk clones, whereas clinically actionable mutations such as PIK3CA and JAK1 mutations were detected in branch clones. Ancestor tumor clones evolved into three subclonal clades: clade1 fostered metastatic subclones that carried metastatic features of PIK3CA and ARHGAP26 point mutations as well as chr13 arm-level deletion, clade2 owned branch-specific JAK1 mutations and PTEN deletion, and clade3 was found in two vertical distribution samples below the primary tumor area, highlighting the fact that it is possible for PMME to disseminate by the submucosal longitudinal lymphatic route at an early stage of metastasis. These findings facilitate interpretation of the genetic essence of this rare melanoma subtype as well as the pattern of cancer evolution, thus reinforcing the therapeutic challenges associated with PMME.

Significance: This study highlights the use of multiregion exome sequencing and whole genome SNP array genotyping to comprehensively characterize the genetic landscape of a rare type of esophogeal melanoma. Cancer Res; 78(2); 338–47. ©2017 AACR.
Healthcare System Distrust, Physician Trust, and Patient Discordance with Adjuvant Breast Cancer Treatment Recommendations
Authors: Dean Lorraine T. , Moss Shadiya L. , McCarthy Anne Marie , Armstrong Katrina
Published: October 2017

Background: Adjuvant therapy after breast cancer surgery decreases recurrence and increases survival, yet not all women receive and complete it. Previous research has suggested that distrust in medical institutions plays a role in who initiates adjuvant treatment, but has not assessed treatment completion, nor the potential mediating role of physician distrust.

Methods: Women listed in Pennsylvania and Florida cancer registries, who were under the age of 65 when diagnosed with localized invasive breast cancer between 2005 and 2007, were surveyed by mail in 2007 to 2009. Survey participants self-reported demographics, cancer stage and treatments, treatment discordance (as defined by not following their surgeon or oncologist treatment recommendation), healthcare system distrust, and physician trust. Age and cancer stage were verified against cancer registry records. Logistic regression assessed the relationship between highest and lowest tertiles of healthcare system distrust and the dichotomous outcome of treatment discordance, controlling for demographics and clinical treatment factors, and testing for mediation by physician trust.

Results: Of the 2,754 participants, 30.2% (n = 832) reported not pursing at least one recommended treatment. The mean age was 52. Patients in the highest tertile of healthcare system distrust were 22% more likely to report treatment discordance than the lowest tertile; physician trust did not mediate the association between healthcare system distrust and treatment discordance.

Conclusions: Healthcare system distrust is positively associated with treatment discordance, defined as failure to initiate or complete physician-recommended adjuvant treatment after breast cancer.

Impact: Interventions should test whether or not resolving institutional distrust reduces treatment discordance. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(12); 1745–52. ©2017 AACR.
Pharmacogenetic Analysis of the UK MRC (Medical Research Council) MAGIC Trial: Association of Polymorphisms with Toxicity and Survival in Patients Treated with Perioperative Epirubicin, Cisplatin, and 5-fluorouracil (ECF) Chemotherapy
Authors: Smyth Elizabeth , Zhang Shenli , Cunningham David , Wotherspoon Andrew , Soong Richie , Peckitt Clare , Valeri Nicola , Fassan Matteo , Rugge Massimo , Okines Alicia , Allum William , Stenning Sally , Nankivell Matthew , Langley Ruth , Tan Patrick
Published: October 2017

Purpose: Germline polymorphisms may affect chemotherapy efficacy and toxicity. We examined the effect of polymorphisms in drug metabolism and DNA repair genes on pathologic response rates, survival, and toxicity for patients randomized to surgery alone or perioperative ECF chemotherapy in the MRC MAGIC trial.

Experimental Design: DNA was extracted from nontumor resection formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) blocks. ERCC1, ERCC2, XRCC1, DYPD, and OPRT SNPs were evaluated using Sequenom, GSTP1, GSTT1 deletion, and TYMS (TS) 5′ 2R/3R using multiplex PCR. Post PCR amplification, TS 2R/3R and GSTT1 samples underwent gel electrophoresis.

Results: Polymorphism data were available for 289 of 456 (63.4%) operated patients. No polymorphism was statistically significantly associated with pathologic response to chemotherapy. Median overall survival (OS) for patients treated with surgery alone with any TS genotype was not different (1.76 years 2R/2R, 1.68 years 2R/3R, 2.09 years 3R/3R). Median OS for patients with a TS 2R/2R genotype treated with chemotherapy was not reached, whereas median OS for 2R/3R and 3R/3R patients were 1.44 and 1.60 years, respectively (log rank P value = 0.0053). The P value for the interaction between treatment arm and genotype (3R/3R and 3R/2R vs. 2R/2R) was 0.029. No polymorphism was statistically significantly associated with chemotherapy toxicity.

Conclusions: In MAGIC, patients with a TS 2R/2R genotype appeared to derive a larger benefit from perioperative ECF chemotherapy than patients with 3R containing genotypes. Further exploration of this potential predictive biomarker in this patient population is warranted. Clin Cancer Res; 23(24); 7543–9. ©2017 AACR.
More T Cells versus Better T Cells in Patients with Breast Cancer
Authors: Speiser Daniel E. , Verdeil Grégory
Published: October 2017

Summary: Characterization of intratumoral leukocyte populations may help in estimating patients' prognosis and predictions. A new study shows remarkable differences between the in situ and invasive breast cancer stages and highlights that cell number analyses should be complemented with characterization of T-cell functions, increasing the likelihood that immune competent antitumor T cells and further biomarkers are identified for guiding therapy choices. Cancer Discov; 7(10); 1062–4. ©2017 AACR.

See related article by Gil Del Alcazar et al., p. 1098.
Soils and Seeds That Initiate Pancreatic Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Vakoc Christopher R. , Tuveson David A.
Published: October 2017

Summary: Pathways that stimulate metastasis of pancreatic cancer cells are critical for understanding tumor evolution and can serve as potential therapeutic targets. The microenvironment produces a host of metabolic perturbations and tropic factors that may play a formative role in this process. Cancer Discov; 7(10); 1067–8. ©2017 AACR.

See related article by Chiou et al., p. 1184.
Stereotactic Radiotherapy Increases Functionally Suppressive Regulatory T Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Muroyama Yuki , Nirschl Thomas R. , Kochel Christina M. , Lopez-Bujanda Zoila , Theodros Debebe , Mao Wendy , Carrera-Haro Maria A. , Ghasemzadeh Ali , Marciscano Ariel E. , Velarde Esteban , Tam Ada J. , Thoburn Christopher J. , Uddin Muniza , Meeker Alan K. , Anders Robert A. , Pardoll Drew M. , Drake Charles G.
Published: October 2017

Radiotherapy (RT) enhances innate and adaptive antitumor immunity; however, the effects of radiation on suppressive immune cells, such as regulatory T cells (Treg), in the tumor microenvironment (TME) are not fully elucidated. Although previous reports suggest an increased Treg infiltration after radiation, whether these Tregs are functionally suppressive remains undetermined. To test the hypothesis that RT enhances the suppressive function of Treg in the TME, we selectively irradiated implanted tumors using the small animal radiation research platform (SARRP), which models stereotactic radiotherapy in human patients. We then analyzed tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) with flow-cytometry and functional assays. Our data showed that RT significantly increased tumor-infiltrating Tregs (TIL-Treg), which had higher expression of CTLA-4, 4-1BB, and Helios compared with Tregs in nonirradiated tumors. This observation held true across several tumor models (B16/F10, RENCA, and MC38). We found that TIL-Tregs from irradiated tumors had equal or improved suppressive capacity compared with nonirradiated tumors. Our data also indicated that after RT, Tregs proliferated more robustly than other T-cell subsets in the TME. In addition, after RT, expansion of Tregs occurred when T-cell migration was inhibited using Fingolimod, suggesting that the increased Treg frequency was likely due to preferential proliferation of intratumoral Treg after radiation. Our data also suggested that Treg expansion after irradiation was independent of TGFβ and IL33 signaling. These data demonstrate that RT increased phenotypically and functionally suppressive Tregs in the TME. Our results suggest that RT might be combined effectively with Treg-targeting agents to maximize antitumor efficacy. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(11); 992–1004. ©2017 AACR.
Entre o sensível e o inteligível: paixão e memória em Dois irmãos e em Leite derramado
Authors: Sousa Silvia Maria de , Virginio Cinthia Paes
Published: October 2017

O artigo investiga o discurso empreendido por meio da estratégia memorialística pelos narradores dos romances Dois irmãos, de Milton Hatoum, e Leite derramado, de Chico Buarque. A partir do exame dos aspectos sensíveis presentes nesses textos, busca-se analisar de que forma as paixões projetadas no discurso organizam a narrativa e regem a apresentação das memórias. Seguindo ritmos distintos, as lembranças evocadas assumem um papel fundamental na constituição do discurso dos narradores Nael (Dois irmãos) e Eulálio (Leite Derramado), seja devido às experiências postas em cena ou à intencionalidade que reveste a narrativa desses sujeitos. O estudo da arquitetura do discurso desses romances revela mais do que dois sujeitos que querem contar suas histórias de vida, cada um a seu modo, daí a necessidade de a análise considerar os aspectos sensíveis do texto.  Compreende-se, assim, a narrativa a partir da projeção da carga passional que toma esses sujeitos, alterando a condição de existência de cada um deles e instituindo, então, projetos enunciativos marcados por essa particularidade. Para isso, a análise seguirá os princípios da semiótica discursiva, enfatizando a abordagem tensiva, a partir da qual serão discutidos os efeitos de sentido de minimização e recrudescimento.
Da anestesia à estesia: o acontecimento na letra da canção “A banda”
Authors: Magalhães Marcela Ulhôa Borges
Published: October 2017

A publicação de Da imperfeição (2002), de Algirdas Greimas, fez com que a problemática do aconteci- mento emergisse dentro da teoria semiótica, chamando atenção para a necessidade de se colocar em relevo o estudo da continuidade, que, até então, havia sido deixado em segundo plano. A semiótica passou assim a direcionar suas preocupações para o universo do sensível, de modo a deixar-se influenciar pelas teorias fenomenológicas. Nessa nova configuração, Claude Zilberberg traz o acontecimento para o centro de suas preocupações e passa a abordá-lo sob a perspectiva da tensividade, desenvolvendo, assim, um instrumental de análise que passou a contribuir também para o estudo de narrativas que nascem do excesso. Este artigo tem como objetivo evocar esse arcabouço teórico desenvolvido em torno do acontecimento para analisar a letra da canção “A banda” (2007), de Chico Buarque, que apresenta o evento extraordinário em sua centralidade.
Análise dos Atrativos Naturais da Serra dos Alves, Senhora do Carmo, Itabira, MG, Brasil: uma contribuição para o desenvolvimento do turismo sustentável
Authors: Oliveira Dias Raphaela Silva de , Cordeiro Juni Silveira
Published: October 2017

O turismo é uma modalidade econômica que busca promover a  reservação dos recursos naturais e o desenvolvimento social de uma comunidade, abrangendo os aspectos peculiares de uma região, como natureza, história e até mesmo elementos geológicos.Dessa forma, este trabalho objetivou avaliar o potencial turístico de trilhas na região da Serra dos Alves em Senhora do Carmo, distrito de Itabira (MG), bem como verificar a infraestrutura existente no local para atendimento ao turismo. Assim, análise documental e entrevistas foram utilizadas como instrumentos de coleta de dados e observação. Comrelação ao potencial das trilhas, podem ser citados aspectos negativos, como a falta de sinalização para acesso aos pontos turísticos. Porém, todos os atrativos apresentaram grande possibilidade para desenvolvimento de diversas modalidades turísticas, entre as quais podem ser ressaltadas o ecoturismo, o geoturismo e o turismo de aventura.
Reflexiones sobre la Tecnificación y Deshumanización de los Servicios Turísticos
Authors: Arias Castañeda Esteban
Published: October 2017

Se reconoce la relación entre turismo y tecnología o más bien, la adecuación de esta a procesos de los servicios turísticos, los cuales mejoran la experiencia del viajero. Los adelantos tecnológicos impactan positivamente en la rentabilidad de la empresa; es posible que la tecnificación lleve a excluir lo humano de la actividad turística, debido a la dependencia de dispositivos y herramientas que alejan al hombre de sí mismo. En el afán humano de querer conocer y predecir todo, se ha caído en una idea de sentido antropocéntrica que se caracteriza por la premisa de dominio del hombre sobre la naturaleza en aras del bienestar y del progreso; lo que resulta en la inminente pérdida de sentido originario. Es menester reflexionar acerca de que la técnica o tecnología se considere exclusivamente como una herramienta, con el fin de devolver lo humano al turismo y no de reemplazarlo.
Uso e Influência das Mídias Sociais no Planejamento de Viagens: um estudo quantitativo
Authors: Souza Sheila Cristina de , Machado Danielle Fernandes Costa
Published: October 2017

A expansão da internet e a ascensão das mídias digitais transformaram a comunicação interpessoal e as relações humanas e comerciais. As mídias sociais são, hoje, ferramentas populares para comunicar, compartilhar e expressar opiniões pessoais e cada vez mais se estabelecem como alternativas aos meios tradicionais no processo de planejamento e decisão de viagens, permitindo uma atualização, quase em tempo real, das informações. O objetivo geral do estudo foi medir o uso e a influência das mídias sociais durante o processo de planejamento de viagens turísticas, bem como o nível de confiança atribuído pelos turistas a essas ferramentas on-line, comparativamente a outras fontes de informação disponíveis. A metodologia aplicada foi desenvolvida a partir da adaptação da pesquisa feita anteriormente por Fotis, Buhalis e Rossides, com análises descritivas e críticas dos resultados, e se justifica pela necessidade de ampliar a observação para outros mercados a fim de conhecer as especificidades de cada grupo. A amostragem foi não probabilística, concentrada majoritariamente em residentes da cidade de Belo Horizonte, com participação voluntária on-line. Os achados demonstraram o uso frequente das mídias sociais em todas as fases do planejamento de viagens entre os respondentes, sendo essas ferramentas consideradas as fontes de informação mais confiáveis, atrás apenas dos sites oficiais de turismo e indicações de parentes e amigos.
Mitochondrial Respiration Is Reduced in Atherosclerosis, Promoting Necrotic Core Formation and Reducing Relative Fibrous Cap Thickness
Authors: Yu Emma P.K. , Reinhold Johannes , Yu Haixiang , Starks Lakshi , Uryga Anna K. , Foote Kirsty , Finigan Alison , Figg Nichola , Pung Yuh-Fen , Logan Angela , Murphy Michael P. , Bennett Martin
Published: October 2017

Objective—

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) damage is present in murine and human atherosclerotic plaques. However, whether endogenous levels of mtDNA damage are sufficient to cause mitochondrial dysfunction and whether decreasing mtDNA damage and improving mitochondrial respiration affects plaque burden or composition are unclear. We examined mitochondrial respiration in human atherosclerotic plaques and whether augmenting mitochondrial respiration affects atherogenesis.

Approach and Results—

Human atherosclerotic plaques showed marked mitochondrial dysfunction, manifested as reduced mtDNA copy number and oxygen consumption rate in fibrous cap and core regions. Vascular smooth muscle cells derived from plaques showed impaired mitochondrial respiration, reduced complex I expression, and increased mitophagy, which was induced by oxidized low-density lipoprotein. Apolipoprotein E–deficient (ApoE
−/−
) mice showed decreased mtDNA integrity and mitochondrial respiration, associated with increased mitochondrial reactive oxygen species. To determine whether alleviating mtDNA damage and increasing mitochondrial respiration affects atherogenesis, we studied ApoE
−/−
mice overexpressing the mitochondrial helicase Twinkle (Tw
+
/ApoE
−/−
). Tw
+
/ApoE
−/−
mice showed increased mtDNA integrity, copy number, respiratory complex abundance, and respiration. Tw
+
/ApoE
−/−
mice had decreased necrotic core and increased fibrous cap areas, and Tw
+
/ApoE
−/−
bone marrow transplantation also reduced core areas. Twinkle increased vascular smooth muscle cell mtDNA integrity and respiration. Twinkle also promoted vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and protected both vascular smooth muscle cells and macrophages from oxidative stress–induced apoptosis.

Conclusions—

Endogenous mtDNA damage in mouse and human atherosclerosis is associated with significantly reduced mitochondrial respiration. Reducing mtDNA damage and increasing mitochondrial respiration decrease necrotic core and increase fibrous cap areas independently of changes in reactive oxygen species and may be a promising therapeutic strategy in atherosclerosis.
Identification of MicroRNA-124 as a Major Regulator of Enhanced Endothelial Cell Glycolysis in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension via PTBP1 (Polypyrimidine Tract Binding Protein) and Pyruvate Kinase M2
Authors: Caruso Paola , Dunmore Benjamin J. , Schlosser Kenny , Schoors Sandra , Dos Santos Claudia , Perez-Iratxeta Carol , Lavoie Jessie R. , Zhang Hui , Long Lu , Flockton Amanda R. , Frid Maria G. , Upton Paul D. , D’Alessandro Angelo , Hadinnapola Charaka , Kiskin Fedir N. , Taha Mohamad , Hurst Liam A. , Ormiston Mark L. , Hata Akiko , Stenmark Kurt R. , Carmeliet Peter , Stewart Duncan J. , Morrell Nicholas W.
Published: October 2017

Background:

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is characterized by abnormal growth and enhanced glycolysis of pulmonary artery endothelial cells. However, the mechanisms underlying alterations in energy production have not been identified.

Methods:

Here, we examined the miRNA and proteomic profiles of blood outgrowth endothelial cells (BOECs) from patients with heritable PAH caused by mutations in the bone morphogenetic protein receptor type 2 (
BMPR2
) gene and patients with idiopathic PAH to determine mechanisms underlying abnormal endothelial glycolysis. We hypothesized that in BOECs from patients with PAH, the downregulation of microRNA-124 (miR-124), determined with a tiered systems biology approach, is responsible for increased expression of the splicing factor
PTBP1
(polypyrimidine tract binding protein), resulting in alternative splicing of pyruvate kinase muscle isoforms 1 and 2 (PKM1 and 2) and consequently increased PKM2 expression. We questioned whether this alternative regulation plays a critical role in the hyperglycolytic phenotype of PAH endothelial cells.

Results:

Heritable PAH and idiopathic PAH BOECs recapitulated the metabolic abnormalities observed in pulmonary artery endothelial cells from patients with idiopathic PAH, confirming a switch from oxidative phosphorylation to aerobic glycolysis. Overexpression of miR-124 or siRNA silencing of
PTPB1
restored normal proliferation and glycolysis in heritable PAH BOECs, corrected the dysregulation of glycolytic genes and lactate production, and partially restored mitochondrial respiration.
BMPR2
knockdown in control BOECs reduced the expression of miR-124, increased
PTPB1
, and enhanced glycolysis. Moreover, we observed reduced miR-124, increased
PTPB1
and
PKM2
expression, and significant dysregulation of glycolytic genes in the rat SUGEN-hypoxia model of severe PAH, characterized by reduced
BMPR2
expression and endothelial hyperproliferation, supporting the relevance of this mechanism in vivo.

Conclusions:

Pulmonary vascular and circulating progenitor endothelial cells isolated from patients with PAH demonstrate downregulation of miR-124, leading to the metabolic and proliferative abnormalities in PAH ECs via PTPB1 and PKM1/PKM2. Therefore, the manipulation of this miRNA or its targets could represent a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of PAH.
Heavy Metal: An Interactive Environmental Art Installation
Authors: Helyer Nigel , Potts John , Taylor Mark Patrick
Published: October 2017

This article discusses Heavy Metal, an interactive installation work by Nigel Helyer. The authors situate this work within the context of a collaboration among environmental science, art and media theory, a three-year research project entitled When Science Meets Art: An Environmental Portrait of the Shoalhaven River Valley.
Weeding the nettles VI: Taxonomic and phylogenetic studies of the Southeast Asian Urtica fissa-clade (Urticaceae)
Authors: BECKER KARIN , GROSSE-VELDMANN BERNADETTE , WEIGEND MAXIMILIAN
Published: October 2017

Urtica L. (Urticaceae) is a subcosmopolitan genus common throughout temperate Asia. Species delimitation is very difficult and the present study investigates a group of taxa associated with Urtica fissa from East-Southeast Asia and based mainly on herbarium collections, including most of the type specimens and cultivated plants. Species limits especially of U. mairei, U. fissa and U. himalayensis have been consistently confused in both herbaria and floristic treatments. As part of a taxonomic revision we produced a molecular phylogeny of the group based on ITS1-5.8S-ITS2, psbA–trnH, trnL–trnF and trnS–trnG markers. Our revision recovers a total of five species and two subspecies: U. fissa E.Pritz. ex Diels, U. grandidentata Miq. subsp. grandidentata, U. grandidentata Miq. subsp. lombok K.Becker & Weigend, U. himalayensis Kunth & C.D.Boché, U. mairei Lév. and U. parviflora Roxb. We provide type information, diagnostic characters, a key to species identification, species conservation assessments and a list of exsiccatae for each taxon.
Russula (Russulaceae) in western Himalaya 1: Two new species from subg. Russula
Authors: GHOSH ANIKET , DAS KANAD
Published: October 2017

A couple of forays to the temperate to subalpine regions of the western Himalaya uncovered two new species: Russula rajendrae and R. petersenii. Russula rajendrae (subg. Russula sec. Russula subsect. Russula), is characterized by a pale red to venetian pink or pastel red colored pileus with grayish yellow patches in the center, a white spore print, an acrid taste, and cystidia with variably shaped apices (capitate, rounded, moniliform, appendiculate or pointed) whereas, Russula petersenii (subg. Russula sec. Paraincrustatae subsect. Integrae), is characterized by a white pileus with pale yellow to light yellow patches and a concolorous stipe, white to yellowish white lamellae with 3 series of lamellulae, a white spore print, an acrid taste, basidiospores with isolated warts (sparsely connected in places), and different types of cystidial apices. Macro- and micromorphological descriptions together with illustrations and phylogenetic inferences are presented for both species. Allied taxa (endemic and extralimital) are also compared.
A new species of Cyperus (Cyperaceae) from Brazil
Authors: VERLOOVE FILIP , TUCKER GORDON
Published: October 2017

Cyperus bampsii is described as a species new to science. It was collected in 1976 in a single locality near Belterra in Pará, Brazil. The species most likely belongs to section Haspani and, based on morphology and leaf anatomy, its closest relatives probably are C. haspan and C. tenuispica. The new species is described and copiously illustrated and its conservation status is assessed.
Discovery of another new species of Charadrahyla (Anura, Hylidae) from the cloud forest of northern Oaxaca, México
Authors: CANSECO-MÁRQUEZ LUIS , RAMÍREZ-GONZÁLEZ CYNTHIA GRISELL , GONZÁLEZ-BERNAL EDNA
Published: October 2017

Charadrahyla esperancensis, a new species of tree frog, is described from the cloud forest of Sierra d Juárez on the northern slopes of Oaxaca. This species is sympatric with C. nephila and is distinguished by the presence of a protuding snout with a distinctive downward slope posterior to the nostril in lateral view, with an evident rostral keel, and the flanks and anterior and posterior surfaces of limbs with yellow spots. With the discovery of this new species, the species number of the genus increases to seven and adds another species of Charadrahyla for the assemblage of anurans from northern Oaxaca. This is the first instance of sympatry of species in the genus Charadrahyla. Additionally, we provide a key to the species of the genus.
Forecasting Tropical Cyclone Eye Formation and Dissipation in Infrared Imagery
Authors: Knaff John A. , DeMaria Robert T.
Published: October 2017

The development of an infrared (IR; specifically near 11 μm) eye probability forecast scheme for tropical cyclones is described. The scheme was developed from an eye detection algorithm that used a linear discriminant analysis technique to determine the probability of an eye existing in any given IR image given information about the storm center, motion, and latitude. Logistic regression is used for the model development and predictors were selected from routine information about the current storm (e.g., current intensity), forecast environmental factors (e.g., wind shear, oceanic heat content), and patterns/information (e.g., convective organization, tropical cyclone size) extracted from the current IR image. Forecasts were created for 6-, 12-, 18-, 24-, and 36-h forecast leads. Forecasts were developed using eye existence probabilities from North Atlantic tropical cyclone cases (1996–2014) and a combined North Atlantic and North Pacific (i.e., Northern Hemisphere) sample. The performance of North Atlantic–based forecasts, tested using independent eastern Pacific tropical cyclone cases (1996–2014), shows that the forecasts are skillful versus persistence at 12–36 h, and skillful versus climatology at 6–36 h. Examining the reliability and calibration of those forecasts shows that calibration and reliability of the forecasts is good for 6–18 h, but forecasts become a little overconfident at longer lead times. The forecasts also appear unbiased. The small differences between the Atlantic and Northern Hemisphere formulations are discussed. Finally, and remarkably, there are indications that smaller TCs are more prone to form eye features in all of the TC areas examined.
Study on the Characteristic Spectral Properties for Species Identification of Animal-Derived Feedstuff Using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Gao Fei , Zhou Simiao , Yang Zengling , Han Lujia , Liu Xian
Published: October 2017

The objective of the present study was to explore the effective spectral bands related to lipid characteristics in spectra of raw animal-derived feedstuff and figure out which marked spectral regions (single or combined) contributed more to species discrimination. A total of 82 meat and bone meals, including porcine, poultry, bovine, ovine, and fish, were studied. Raw materials, extracted lipid, and defatted samples were simultaneously analyzed and calculated using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy in combination with chemometric methods. Taking the spectra of lipid as references, five marked spectral regions considered the main lipid characteristic regions were found in the raw animal-derived feedstuff spectra. In the study, single and combined marked spectral bands were investigated and proved to have better performance than the whole spectra of raw terrestrial animal-derived feedstuff and fishmeal. For the discrimination of five animal species, the regions of 1800–1650 cm–1, 1500–1330 cm–1, 1260–1060 cm–1, and 790–640 cm–1 presented better results; for the classification of three categories, the regions of 3100–2800 cm–1, 1800–1650 cm–1, and 1500–1330 cm–1 showed the best results.
Injuries Caused by Falls From Playground Equipment in the United States
Authors: Tuckel Peter , Milczarski William , Silverman David G.
Published: October 2017

The objective of this study is to document the incidence of falls from playground equipment in the United States over time and to provide a detailed profile of the individuals injured in playground falls using several state and national databases. During the past decade, there has been a steep decline in the number of injuries treated in emergency departments caused by falls from playground equipment in the United States. Males, children between the ages of 5 to 9 years, and individuals from lower economic strata are overrepresented among those suffering an injury. Falls from monkey bars result in the greatest number of injuries (52%). Schools/day care centers and recreation areas each account for approximately 40% of injuries. The incidence of injuries occurring at home playgrounds has declined sharply in recent years. Fracture of the upper limb is the type of injury most often associated with a fall from playground equipment (43%).