bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Delamination Effect on Flexural Responses of Layered Curved Shallow Shell Panel-Experimental and Numerical Analysis
Authors: Hirwani Chetan Kumar , Panda Subrata Kumar , Mahapatra Trupti Ranjan , Mandal Sanjib Kumar , Mahapatra Siba Sankar , De Apurba Kumar
Published: September 2017

The bending responses of the delaminated composite curved (single and doubly) shallow shell panel computed numerically and validated with subsequent experimental results. The laminated shell panel model is developed mathematically with the help of two higher-order mid-plane theories and finite element method. The generalized governing equations of the shell panel model is obtained via the variational method and solved numerically using a home-made computer code developed in MATLAB. The consistency of the developed models has been established through the convergence test and validated by comparing the present numerical results with available published data including experimental values. The experimental bending results are obtained via three-point bend test of the fabricated woven Glass/Epoxy composite plate including the delamination (different size and location) and utilized for the comparison purpose. The numerical and experimental comparison reveals the necessity of the current higher-order models for the delaminated structure. In order to report the comprehensive conclusions related to the flexural strength of laminated structure with internal damage, a detailed parametric study has been carried out numerically and discussed in detail including the effect delamination (size, position and location).
Well-posedness of a model of nonhomogeneous compressible–incompressible fluids
Authors: Bianchini Roberta , Natalini Roberto
Published: September 2017

We propose a model of a density-dependent compressible–incompressible fluid, which is intended as a simplified version of models based on mixture theory as, for instance, those arising in the study of biofilms, tumor growth and vasculogenesis. Though our model is, in some sense, close to the density-dependent incompressible Euler equations, it presents some differences that require a different approach from an analytical point of view. In this paper, we establish a result of local existence and uniqueness of solutions in Sobolev spaces to our model, using the Leray projector. Besides, we show the convergence of both a continuous version of the Chorin–Temam projection method, viewed as a singular perturbation approximation, and the artificial compressibility method.
Multimodal probe for optical coherence tomography epidetection and micron-scale indentation
Authors: Bartolini L. , Feroldi F. , Weda J. J. A. , Slaman M. , de Boer J. F. , Iannuzzi D.
Published: September 2017

We present a multimodal ferrule-top sensor designed to perform the integrated epidetection of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) depth-profiles and micron-scale indentation by all-optical detection. By scanning a sample under the probe, we can obtain structural cross-section images and identify a region-of-interest in a nonhomogeneous sample. Then, with the same probe and setup, we can immediately target that area with a series of spherical-indentation measurements, in which the applied load is known with a [Formula: see text]N precision, the indentation depth with sub-[Formula: see text]m precision and a maximum contact radius of 100[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m. Thanks to the visualization of the internal structure of the sample, we can gain a better insight into the observed mechanical behavior. The ability to impart a small, confined load, and perform OCT [Formula: see text]-scans at the same time, could lead to an alternative, high transverse resolution, Optical Coherence Elastography (OCE) sensor.
A Student Information Management System Based on Fingerprint Identification and Data Security Transmission
Authors: Yang Pengtao , Sun Guiling , He Jingfei , Zhou Peiyao , Liu Jiangjiang
Published: September 2017

A new type of student information management system is designed to implement student information identification and management based on fingerprint identification. In order to ensure the security of data transmission, this paper proposes a data encryption method based on an improved AES algorithm. A new S-box is cleverly designed, which can significantly reduce the encryption time by improving ByteSub, ShiftRow, and MixColumn in the round transformation of the traditional AES algorithm with the process of look-up table. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm can significantly improve the encryption time compared with the traditional AES algorithm.
Anti-CD137 Suppresses Tumor Growth by Blocking Reverse Signaling by CD137 Ligand
Authors: Kang Sang W. , Lee Sang C. , Park So H. , Kim Juyang , Kim Hyeon H. , Lee Hyeon-Woo , Seo Su K. , Kwon Byoung S. , Cho Hong R. , Kwon Byungsuk
Published: September 2017

CD137 (4-1BB) is a T-cell costimulatory molecule, and agonstic CD137 antibodies are currently being evaluated in the clinic as cancer immunotherapy. Recently, it was found that CD137−/− mice or mice injected with agonistic anti-CD137 antibodies exhibit heightened antitumor responses, contrary to expectations based on other knowledge of CD137 function. Here, we report findings related to reverse signaling by CD137 ligand (CD137L) in antigen-presenting dendritic cells (DC) in tumors that address these paradoxical results. Specifically, CD137L suppressed intratumoral differentiation of IL12-producing CD103+ DC and type 1 tumor-associated macrophages (TAM). Differentiation of these cell types is important because they are required to generate IFNγ-producing CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (Tc1). Notably, CD137L blockade increased levels of IL12 and IFNγ, which promoted intratumoral differentiation of IFNγ-producing Tc1, IL12-producing CD103+ DC, and type 1 TAM within tumors. Our results offer an explanation for the paradoxical effects of CD137 blockade, based on differential immunomodulatory effects of CD137 signaling and reverse signaling in T cells and DC, respectively. Further, they show how CD137L blockade can seed a forward-feedback loop for activation of CD103+ DC/type 1 TAM and Tc1 that can create a self-perpetuating cycle of highly effective immunosurveillance. Cancer Res; 77(21); 5989–6000. ©2017 AACR.
MetaLnc9 Facilitates Lung Cancer Metastasis via a PGK1-Activated AKT/mTOR Pathway
Authors: Yu Tao , Zhao Yingjun , Hu Zhixiang , Li Jing , Chu Dandan , Zhang Jiwei , Li Zhe , Chen Bing , Zhang Xiao , Pan Hongyu , Li Shengli , Lin Hechun , Liu Lei , Yan Mingxia , He Xianghuo , Yao Ming
Published: September 2017

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA) participate in carcinogenesis and tumor progression in lung cancer. Here, we report the identification of a lncRNA signature associated with metastasis of non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In particular, elevated expression of LINC00963 (MetaLnc9) in human NSCLC specimens correlated with poor prognosis, promoted migration and invasion of NSCLC cells in vitro, and enhanced lung metastasis formation in vivo. Mechanistic investigations showed that MetaLnc9 interacted with the glycolytic kinase PGK1 and prevented its ubiquitination in NSCLC cells, leading to activation of the oncogenic AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. MetaLnc9 also interacted with P54nrb/NonO (NONO) to help mediate the activity of CRTC, a coactivator for the transcription factor CREB, reinforcing a positive feedback loop for metastasis. Taken together, our results establish MetaLnc9 as a driver of metastasis and a candidate therapeutic target for treating advanced NSCLC. Cancer Res; 77(21); 5782–94. ©2017 AACR.
In Silico Modeling of Immunotherapy and Stroma-Targeting Therapies in Human Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Kather Jakob Nikolas , Poleszczuk Jan , Suarez-Carmona Meggy , Krisam Johannes , Charoentong Pornpimol , Valous Nektarios A. , Weis Cleo-Aron , Tavernar Luca , Leiss Florian , Herpel Esther , Klupp Fee , Ulrich Alexis , Schneider Martin , Marx Alexander , Jäger Dirk , Halama Niels
Published: September 2017

Despite the fact that the local immunological microenvironment shapes the prognosis of colorectal cancer, immunotherapy has shown no benefit for the vast majority of colorectal cancer patients. A better understanding of the complex immunological interplay within the microenvironment is required. In this study, we utilized wet lab migration experiments and quantitative histological data of human colorectal cancer tissue samples (n = 20) including tumor cells, lymphocytes, stroma, and necrosis to generate a multiagent spatial model. The resulting data accurately reflected a wide range of situations of successful and failed immune surveillance. Validation of simulated tissue outcomes on an independent set of human colorectal cancer specimens (n = 37) revealed the model recapitulated the spatial layout typically found in human tumors. Stroma slowed down tumor growth in a lymphocyte-deprived environment but promoted immune escape in a lymphocyte-enriched environment. A subgroup of tumors with less stroma and high numbers of immune cells showed high rates of tumor control. These findings were validated using data from colorectal cancer patients (n = 261). Low-density stroma and high lymphocyte levels showed increased overall survival (hazard ratio 0.322, P = 0.0219) as compared with high stroma and high lymphocyte levels. To guide immunotherapy in colorectal cancer, simulation of immunotherapy in preestablished tumors showed that a complex landscape with optimal stroma permeabilization and immune cell activation is able to markedly increase therapy response in silico. These results can help guide the rational design of complex therapeutic interventions, which target the colorectal cancer microenvironment. Cancer Res; 77(22); 6442–52. ©2017 AACR.
Apoptotic Bodies Elicit Gas6-Mediated Migration of AXL-Expressing Tumor Cells
Authors: Zweemer Annelien J.M. , French Cory B. , Mesfin Joshua , Gordonov Simon , Meyer Aaron S. , Lauffenburger Douglas A.
Published: September 2017

Metastases are a major cause of cancer mortality. AXL, a receptor tyrosine kinase aberrantly expressed in many tumors, is a potent oncogenic driver of metastatic cell motility and has been identified as broadly relevant in cancer drug resistance. Despite its frequent association with changes in cancer phenotypes, the precise mechanism leading to AXL activation is incompletely understood. In addition to its ligand growth arrest specific-6 (Gas6), activation of AXL requires the lipid moiety phosphatidylserine (PS). Phosphatidylserine is only available to mediate AXL activation when it is externalized on cell membranes, an event that occurs during certain physiologic processes such as apoptosis. Here, it is reported that exposure of cancer cells to phosphatidylserine-containing vesicles, including synthetic liposomes and apoptotic bodies, contributes to enhanced migration of tumor cells via a PS–Gas6–AXL signaling axis. These findings suggest that anticancer treatments that induce fractional cell killing enhance the motility of surviving cells in AXL-expressing tumors, which may explain the widespread role of AXL in limiting therapeutic efficacy.

Implications: This study demonstrates that motility behavior of AXL-expressing tumor cells can be elicited by Gas6-bearing apoptotic bodies generated from tumor treatment with therapeutics that produce killing of a portion of the tumor cells present but not all, hence generating potentially problematic invasive and metastatic behavior of the surviving tumor cells. Mol Cancer Res; 15(12); 1656–66. ©2017 AACR.
Why Do Students Engage in Elective Courses on Acupuncture and Homeopathy at Medical School? A Survey
Authors: Jocham Alexandra , Berberat Pascal O. , Schneider Antonius , Linde Klaus
Published: September 2017

Background: We aimed to investigate why medical students in Germany participate in elective courses on acupuncture or homeopathy. Methods: The study was a nationwide, cross-sectional survey. Elective courses on acupuncture and homeopathy in the academic half-year 2013/14 were identified by inquiries directed to all 37 German medical schools, to student initiatives, and organizations supporting such courses. Participants of courses were asked to fill in a questionnaire consisting of a free-text question on their motives and closed questions regarding personal experiences, personal environment, evidence, role of the therapy as a complement to conventional medicine, and opportunistic aspects in relation to the therapy chosen. Results: Students participating in 16 of 18 identified acupuncture courses (n = 220) and 12 of 13 identified homeopathy courses (n = 113) filled in the questionnaire. Content analysis of the free text showed that personal experience, a feeling that conventional medicine is somehow incomplete, the belief that acupuncture or homeopathy could help to overcome this shortcoming, and positive characteristics attributed to the therapies were the main motives for participation. Quantitative analyses showed that own experiences and considering the therapy a useful complement to conventional medicine were similarly rated motives in both groups, while opportunistic aspects played almost no role. The influence of the personal environment was more important among homeopathy students, while acupuncture students considered their therapy better backed by evidence. Conclusion: In our survey, personal experiences and the belief that acupuncture or homeopathy allows grasping the patient more holistically were primary motives for participation.
Neonatal Exposure to 6-n-Propyl-Thiouracil, an Anti-Thyroid Drug, Alters Expression of Hepatic DNA Methyltransferases, Methyl CpG-Binding Proteins, Gadd45a, p53, and PCNA in Adult Male Rats
Authors: Bunker Suresh Kumar , Dandapat Jagneshwar , Chainy Gagan B.N. , Sahoo Sunil Kumar , Nayak Prabhat Kumar
Published: September 2017

Background: Neonatal 6-n-propyl-2-thiouracil (PTU) exposure to male rats is reported to impair liver function in adulthood. However, the mechanism by which the drug impairs liver function is not well known. Objectives: The objectives of the study were to investigate the effects of neonatal exposure of PTU on the expression of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs), methyl-DNA binding proteins (MBDs), Gadd45a, p53, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in adult rat liver. Methods: The effects of neonatal transient (from birth to 30 days of age) and persistent (from birth to 90 days of age) treatment of PTU on DNA damage and on the expression of p53, PCNA, DNMTs, and MBDs were investigated at transcriptional and translational levels in male adult liver. Results: Persistent exposure to PTU from birth caused significant downregulation of expression of DNMT1 and DNMT3a and upregulation of DNMT3b, MBD4, and Gadd45a without any damage to DNA. Although MeCp2 transcripts were significantly low in the liver of adult rats after persistent exposure to PTU compared to controls, its translated products were significantly higher than in controls. The expression of p53 and PCNA in PTU-treated rats was significantly higher and lower, respectively, than that in control rats. Conclusion: The results suggest that neonatal exposure of male rats to PTU resulted in alteration in the expression of proteins that are associated with DNA methylation and genome stabilization in adult rat liver.
A Low Cerebroplacental Ratio at 20-24 Weeks of Gestation Can Predict Reduced Fetal Size Later in Pregnancy or at Birth
Authors: Hernandez-Andrade Edgar , Maymon Eli , Erez Offer , Saker Homam , Luewan Suchaya , Garcia Maynor , Ahn Hyunyoung , Tarca Adi L. , Done Bogdan , Korzeniewski Steven J. , Hassan Sonia S. , Romero Roberto
Published: September 2017

Aim: To determine whether Doppler evaluation at 20-24 weeks of gestation can predict reduced fetal size later in pregnancy or at birth. Methods: Fetal biometry and Doppler velocimetry were performed in 2,986 women with a singleton pregnancy at 20-24 weeks of gestation. Predictive performances of the umbilical artery pulsatility index (UA-PI) or the mean uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA-PI) >95th percentile, middle cerebral artery pulsatility index, or cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) <5th percentile for early small for gestational age (SGA; <34 weeks of gestation), late SGA (≥34 weeks of gestation), or SGA at birth (birthweight <10th percentile) were analyzed. Results: The prevalence of early SGA, late SGA, and SGA at birth was 1.1, 9.6, and 14.7%, respectively. A CPR <5th percentile had a positive likelihood ratio (LR+) of 8.2 (95% confidence interval [CI] 5.7-12.0) for early SGA, a LR+ of 1.6 (95% CI 1.1-1.2) for late SGA, and a LR+ of 1.9 (95% CI 1.4-2.6) for SGA at birth. A UtA-PI >95th percentile was associated with late SGA and SGA at birth, while an UA-PI >95th percentile was associated with early SGA. Associations were higher in fetuses with an estimated fetal weight <10th percentile. Conclusion: Fetal biometry and Doppler evaluation at 20-24 weeks of gestation can predict early and late SGA as well as SGA at birth.
Atypical Presentation of a Pediatric Cerebellar Ganglioglioma
Authors: Bram Richard , Seidman Roberta J. , Chesler David
Published: September 2017

Background/Aims: Gangliogliomas (GGs) are rare central nervous system tumors occurring primarily in the supratentorial compartment with infratentorial instances most often involving the brain stem. Infratentorial GGs typically present with signs and symptoms of increased intracranial pressure (ICP), cranial nerve deficits, or focal cerebellar findings; rarely, these tumors have been associated with focal seizures. Methods: In this report, we describe an atypical presentation of a cerebellar GG in a 20-month-old male who initially presented with syncope and emesis in the absence of electrographic evidence of seizures, radiographic evidence of hydrocephalus, or elevated ICP. The epidemiology, radiographic, and pathological findings as well as the treatment of these tumors are also discussed. Results: After gross total resection, the patient experienced full resolution of all his preoperative symptoms without the development of new neurological deficits. Conclusions: Unlike their supratentorial counterparts, infratentorial GGs do not commonly present with seizures although rare reports exist in the literature of seizures attributed to cerebellar GG. Moreover, cerebellar GGs may produce nonspecific symptoms in the absence of concrete diagnostic findings. Such a presentation should prompt further neurological evaluation. Most cases of isolated cerebellar GG can be successfully treated with surgical resection and carry a favorable prognosis.
Pharmacotherapy with Thymoquinone Improved Pancreatic β-Cell Integrity and Functional Activity, Enhanced Islets Revascularization, and Alleviated Metabolic and Hepato-Renal Disturbances in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes in Rats
Authors: El-Shemi Adel Galal , Kensara Osama Adnan , Alsaegh Aiman , Mukhtar Mohammed Hasan
Published: September 2017

Aims: This study is aimed at evaluating the antidiabetic effects of thymoquinone (TQ) on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes in rats, and exploring the possible underlying mechanisms. Methods: Diabetes was induced in adult male Wistar rats by intraperitoneal injection of freshly prepared STZ (65 mg/kg). After disease induction, 42 rats were equally assigned to: controls, STZ-diabetic group, and STZ-diabetic group treated with oral TQ (35 mg/kg/day) for 5 weeks. Fasting blood glucose levels were determined weekly, and the animals were euthanized at day 38 post-STZ injection. Blood samples were assessed for glucose-insulin homeostasis parameters (plasma glucose, glycated hemoglobin, serum insulin, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance, and insulin sensitivity index) and lipid profile. Resected pancreases were subjected to histological examination and immunohistochemical or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay assessment to determine the pancreatic expression of insulin sensitizing β-cells, anti-apoptotic protein “survivin,” apoptosis-inducer “caspase-3,” prototypic angiogenic factors (vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF] and endothelial cluster of differentiation 31 [CD31]), pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1beta [IL-1β] and interleukin-10 [IL-10], respectively), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), total glutathione (GSH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). The hepato-renal statuses were assessed biochemically and histologically. Results: Therapy with TQ markedly improved the integrity of pancreatic islets, glucose-insulin homeostasis-related parameters, lipid profile parameters, and hepato-renal functional and histomorphological statuses that collectively were severely deteriorated in untreated diabetic group. Mechanistically, TQ therapy efficiently increased insulin producing β-cells, upregulated survivin, VEGF, CD31, IL-10, GSH and SOD, and downregulated caspase-3, IL-1β, and TBARSs in the pancreatic tissues of STZ-diabetic rats. Conclusions: These findings prove the anti-diabetic potential of TQ and its efficacy in regenerating pancreatic β-cells and ameliorating pancreatic inflammation and oxidative stress, and highlight its novelty in repressing apoptosis of β-cells and enhancing islet revascularization in STZ-diabetic rats. Further studies are required to support these findings and realize their possible clinical significance.
Beneficial Combination of Lacosamide with Retigabine in Experimental Animals: An Isobolographic Analysis
Authors: Luszczki Jarogniew J. , Zagaja Mirosław , Miziak Barbara , Kondrat-Wrobel Maria W. , Zaluska Katarzyna , Wroblewska-Luczka Paula , Adamczuk Piotr , Czuczwar Stanislaw J. , Florek-Luszczki Magdalena
Published: September 2017

Background/Aim: To isobolographically determine the types of interactions that occur between retigabine and lacosamide (LCM; two third-generation antiepileptic drugs) with respect to their anticonvulsant activity and acute adverse effects (sedation) in the maximal electroshock-induced seizures (MES) and chimney test (motor performance) in adult male Swiss mice. Methods: Type I isobolographic analysis for nonparallel dose-response effects for the combination of retigabine with LCM (at the fixed-ratio of 1:1) in both the MES and chimney test in mice was performed. Brain concentrations of retigabine and LCM were measured by high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) to characterize any pharmacokinetic interactions occurring when combining these drugs. Results: Linear regression analysis revealed that retigabine had its dose-response effect line nonparallel to that of LCM in both the MES and chimney tests. The type I isobolographic analysis illustrated that retigabine combined with LCM (fixed-ratio of 1:1) exerted an additive interaction in the mouse MES model and sub-additivity (antagonism) in the chimney test. With HPLC, retigabine and LCM did not mutually change their total brain concentrations, thereby confirming the pharmacodynamic nature of the interaction. Conclusion: LCM combined with retigabine possesses a beneficial preclinical profile (benefit index ranged from 2.07 to 2.50) and this 2-drug combination is worth recommending as treatment plan to patients with pharmacoresistant epilepsy.
0 Espaço Cenográfico do Espetáculo - presença na cidade e no edifício
Authors: Caron Jorge O.
Published: September 2017

0 trabalho procura estabelecer uma definição para cenário como exclusivo do planejamento do ambiente cênico do espetáculo. Verifica-se uma duplicidade de espaços, um físico e eficiente, outro imaginário e cúmplice. Através da análise dos elementos significativos da ação cênica pode se estabelecer uma relação entre o público e a cena, no âmbito do imaginário. Verifica-se de que maneira este ambiente intervém no espaço físico, tanto urbano quanto edificado. Descreve-se, a seguir, uma intervenção com uma linha dramática (promovida por luzes coloridas) em um ambiente arquitetônico conhecido pelo público, e suas reações diante da intervenção
Alterações na estrutura urbana da região metropolitana de São Paulo
Authors: Jorge Wilson Edson , Salgado Elizabeth Carvalho De Oliverira
Published: September 2017

Esse artigo trata das alterações verificadas na estrutura urbana da Região Metropolitana de São Paulo, considerando densidades demográficas e rendas médias familiares. A área urbana da RMSP, no período de 1881 a 1991, apresentou uma variação de densidades demográficas brutas, de 110 hab/ha em 1914 até 47 hab/ha em 1930, estabilizando-se em torno de 81 hab/ha, na última década. Esse valor médio, bastante favorável considerando os custos de aglomeração, se descaracteriza quando se observa sua variação internamente à área urbana. As densidades internas à área urbana apresentaram em 1987, uma variação de 9 a 146 hab/ha, nas zonas em que o estudo considerou para desagregar a área urbana. A maior parte dessas zonas apresentaram densidades abaixo de 50 hab/ha. A variação das rendas médias familiares analisadas para o período recente, de 1977 a 1987, sugerem novas interpretações para esse fenômeno, em relação aos padrões normalmente aceitos nas relações centro-periferia. Áreas periféricas apresentaram aumento da renda familiar e áreas de maior renda apresentaram perda de renda. O estudo aponta também para muitas mudanças da renda familiar nas zonas, o que significa uma grande dinâmica ocorrendo na estrutura urbana da RMSP. Essa dinâmica, em um período relativamente curto precisa ser melhor conhecida, para orientação e crítica das políticas públicas
Avaliação Pós-Ocupação aplicada em edifícios de escritórios: Alguns aspectos metodológicos e resultados
Authors: Ornstein Sheila Walbe
Published: September 2017

Este artigo pretende demonstrar alguns dos aspectos metodológicos e dos resultados de Avaliação Pós-Ocupação (APO), aplicada em dois edifícios de escritórios, cujas instalações e serviços de apoio apresentam parcialmente características automatizadas e estão situados na região do corredor comercial da avenida Carlos Berrini, no Brooklin Novo, São Paulo. Abordará e discutirá o formato, o conteúdo e os procedimentos para aplicação de questionário visando aferir a satisfação dos usuários dos dois edifícios e apresentará algumas análises e resultados comparativos no que diz respeito ao ponto de vista dos avaliadores e ao ponto de vista dos usuários, com ênfase nos aspectos funcionais e comportamentais. Esta discussão é uma contribuição aos procedimentos para aplicação da APO em edifícios de escritórios no Brasil, a qual se iniciou muito recentemente e poderá tomar corpo tendo em vista o crescim ento acelerado do setor te rciá rio nas regiões metropolitanas do país. A pesquisa conta com apoio da Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo - Fapesp
Apontamentos sobre missionários, pioneiros e produtos norte-americanos na modernização industrial brasileira
Authors: Pamplona Telmo
Published: September 2017

Os apontamentos aqui apresentados abordam a “colonização voluntária" em preendida por imigrantes norte-americanos a partir da metade do século 19, em sua maioria composta por missionários e sulistas vitima dos pela Guerra de Secessão. Esses pioneiros pretendiam difundira doutrina presbiteria na em nosso território. o texto também aborda a “colonização silenciosa" empreendida, menos de um século depois, no pós-guerra, pelos produtos industriais norte-americanos, que verdadeiramente consagram a doutrina do capitalismo industrial dependente no Brasil (centrado em São Paulo). Neste sentido, analisa-se o histórico de quatro empresas de eletrodomésticos instaladas no país nessa ocasião, procurando assim contemplara questão da dependência tecnológica e a do style norte-americano como doutrina estética
Padrões de ocupação do solo e microclimas urbanos na região de clima tropical continental
Authors: Duarte Denise
Published: September 2017

0 objeto deste trabalho são os microclimas urbanos nas cidades brasileiras na região de clima tropical continental. Partindo do princípio que há uma correlação entre microclimas urbanos e ocupação do solo, 0 objetivo é medir numericamente a correlação entre a temperatura do ar e algumas variáveis familiares ao planejamento, e que podem ser regulamentadas pela legislação municipal. Faz-se uma descrição qualitativa e quantitativa das variáveis urbanísticas envolvidas, bem como medições de temperatura e umidade do ar em diferentes estações e horários. Os resultados mostram que as variáveis taxa de ocupação e coeficiente de aproveitamento mantêm correlação positiva com a temperatura do ar, e refletem uma maior influência da densidade construída sobre 0 período noturno, 0 que concorda com a teoria existente. Já com as variáveis arborização e água a correlação foi negativa em relação à temperatura do ar, em todos os horários
Os Anos Obscuros
Authors: Weimer Günter
Published: September 2017

0 presente trabalho trata das criticas que têm sido feitas à arquitetura do século passado e da primeira metade do presente; analisa as características das arquiteturas européia e brasileira deste período nrtostrando seus diferentes significados nos dois lados do Atlântico
P2Y
2
Nucleotide Receptor Prompts Human Cardiac Progenitor Cell Activation by Modulating Hippo Signaling
Authors: Khalafalla Farid G. , Greene Steven , Khan Hashim , Ilves Kelli , Monsanto Megan M. , Alvarez Roberto , Chavarria Monica , Nguyen Jonathan , Norman Benjamin , Dembitsky Walter P. , Sussman Mark A.
Published: September 2017

Rationale:

Autologous stem cell therapy using human c-Kit
+
cardiac progenitor cells (hCPCs) is a promising therapeutic approach for treatment of heart failure (HF). However, hCPCs derived from aged patients with HF with genetic predispositions and comorbidities of chronic diseases exhibit poor proliferative and migratory capabilities, which impair overall reparative potential for injured myocardium. Therefore, empowering functionally compromised hCPCs with proregenerative molecules ex vivo is crucial for improving the therapeutic outcome in patients with HF.

Objective:

To improve hCPC proliferation and migration responses that are critical for regeneration by targeting proregenerative P2Y
2
nucleotide receptor (P2Y
2
R) activated by extracellular ATP and UTP molecules released following injury/stress.

Methods and Results:

c-Kit
+
hCPCs were isolated from cardiac tissue of patients with HF undergoing left ventricular assist device implantation surgery. Correlations between P2 nucleotide receptor expression and hCPC growth kinetics revealed downregulation of select P2 receptors, including P2Y
2
R, in slow-growing hCPCs compared with fast growers. hCPC proliferation and migration significantly improved by overexpressing or stimulating P2Y
2
R. Mechanistically, P2Y
2
R-induced proliferation and migration were dependent on activation of YAP (yes-associated protein)—the downstream effector of Hippo signaling pathway.

Conclusions:

Proliferation and migration of functionally impaired hCPCs are enhanced by P2Y
2
R-mediated YAP activation, revealing a novel link between extracellular nucleotides released during injury/stress and Hippo signaling—a central regulator of cardiac regeneration. Functional correlations exist between hCPC phenotypic properties and P2 purinergic receptor expression. Lack of P2Y
2
R and other crucial purinergic stress detectors could compromise hCPC responsiveness to presence of extracellular stress signals. These findings set the stage for subsequent studies to assess purinergic signaling modulation as a potential strategy to improve therapeutic outcome for use of hCPCs in patients with HF.
GJA1-20k Arranges Actin to Guide Cx43 Delivery to Cardiac Intercalated Discs
Authors: Basheer Wassim A. , Xiao Shaohua , Epifantseva Irina , Fu Ying , Kleber Andre G. , Hong TingTing , Shaw Robin M.
Published: September 2017

Rationale:

Delivery of Cx43 (connexin 43) to the intercalated disc is a continuous and rapid process critical for intercellular coupling. By a pathway of targeted delivery involving microtubule highways, vesicles of Cx43 hemichannels are efficiently trafficked to adherens junctions at intercalated discs. It has also been identified that actin provides rest stops for Cx43 forward trafficking and that Cx43 has a 20 kDa internally translated small C terminus isoform, GJA1-20k (Gap Junction Protein Alpha 1- 20 kDa), which is required for full-length Cx43 trafficking, but by an unknown mechanism.

Objective:

We explored the mechanism by which the GJA1-20k isoform is required for full-length Cx43 forward trafficking to intercalated discs.

Methods and Results:

Using an in vivo Adeno-associated virus serotype 9–mediated gene transfer system, we confirmed in whole animal that GJA1-20k markedly increases endogenous myocardial Cx43 gap junction plaque size at the intercalated discs. In micropatterned cell pairing systems, we found that exogenous GJA1-20k expression stabilizes filamentous actin without affecting actin protein expression and that GJA1-20k complexes with both actin and tubulin. We also found that filamentous actin regulates microtubule organization as inhibition of actin polymerization with a low dose of latrunculin A disrupts the targeting of microtubules to cell–cell junctions. GJA1-20k protects actin filament from latrunculin A disruption, preserving microtubule trajectory to the cell–cell border. For therapeutic implications, we found that prior in vivo Adeno-associated virus serotype 9–mediated gene delivery of GJA1-20k to the heart protects Cx43 localization to the intercalated discs against acute ischemic injury.

Conclusions:

The internally translated GJA1-20k isoform stabilizes actin filaments, which guides growth trajectories of the Cx43 microtubule trafficking machinery, increasing delivery of Cx43 hemichannels to cardiac intercalated discs. Exogenous GJA1-20k helps to maintain cell–cell coupling in instances of anticipated myocardial ischemia.
Twenty‐Year Predictors of Peripheral Arterial Disease Compared With Coronary Heart Disease in the Scottish Heart Health Extended Cohort (SHHEC)
Authors: Tunstall‐Pedoe Hugh , Peters Sanne A. E. , Woodward Mark , Struthers Allan D. , Belch Jill J. F.
Published: September 2017

Background

Coronary heart disease and peripheral arterial disease (
PAD
) affect different vascular territories. Supplementing baseline findings with assays from stored serum, we compared their 20‐year predictors.

Methods and Results

We randomly recruited 15 737 disease‐free men and women aged 30 to 75 years across Scotland between 1984 and 1995 and followed them through 2009 for death and hospital diagnoses. Of these, 3098 developed coronary heart disease (19.7%), and 499
PAD
(3.2%). Hazard ratios for 45 variables in the Cox model were adjusted for age and sex and for factors in the 2007
ASSIGN
cardiovascular risk score. Forty‐four of them were entered into parsimonious predictive models, tested by c‐statistics and net reclassification improvements. Many hazard ratios diminished with adjustment and parsimonious modeling, leaving significant survivors. The hazard ratios were mostly higher in
PAD
. New parsimonious models increased the c‐statistic and net reclassification improvements over
ASSIGN
variables alone but varied in their components and ranking. Coronary heart disease and
PAD
shared 7 of the 9 factors from
ASSIGN
: age, sex, family history, socioeconomic status, diabetes mellitus, tobacco smoking, and systolic blood pressure (but neither total nor high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol); plus 4 new ones:
NT
‐pro‐
BNP
, cotinine, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein, and cystatin‐C. The highest ranked hazard ratios for continuous factors in coronary heart disease were those for age, total cholesterol, high‐sensitivity troponin,
NT
‐pro‐
BNP
, cotinine, apolipoprotein A, and waist circumference (plus 10 more); in
PAD
they were age, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein, systolic blood pressure, expired carbon monoxide, cotinine, socioeconomic status, and lipoprotein (a) (plus 5 more).

Conclusions

The mixture of shared with disparate determinants for arterial disease in the heart and the legs implies nonidentical pathogenesis: cholesterol dominant in the former, and inflammation (high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein, diabetes mellitus, smoking) in the latter.
Socio-Economic Factors in Companion Animal Relinquishment on the Sunshine Coast, Australia
Authors: Carter Jennifer , Taylor Clark Scott
Published: September 2017

There is a critical need to reduce the surrender rates of companion animals by understanding the socio-economic circumstances of caretakers. This research analyzed questionnaires with 117 relinquishers and 13 interviews. Interviews were conducted with relinquishers and staff at Sunshine Coast Animal Refuge Society and Sunshine Coast Animal Pound. Most companion animals relinquished were from litters and around half were de-sexed and micro-chipped. A caretaker’s living situation was a critical reason for relinquishment. Humans need to understand the time and space needs of companion species, how these might change with time, and the relationality between humans and companion animals. Alongside regulated breeding and accessible sterilization, shelter staff and other organizations might offer more tailored solutions, especially temporary care, during times of socio-economic crisis. Fundamentally, individuals need to critically examine their commitment to caretaking, but solutions are also structural and should be tailored to the underpinning socio-economic geography of different regions.
Geneva International Discussions – Negotiating the Possible
Authors: Giuashvili Teona , Devdariani Jaba
Published: September 2017

This paper describes the role that the osce has played in the Geneva International Discussions, discussing the key political and institutional obstacles to effective mediation, as well as the creative institutional solutions that helped the osce to mediate and implement several specific projects of significant practical importance.
osce Mediation in an Eroding International Order
Authors: Remler Philip
Published: September 2017

The feeling is widespread in the West that the post wwii normative international order has been under severe challenge since Russia’s seizure of Crimea, now exacerbated by statements from the American president casting doubt on the institutions that underpin that order. Is there a future role for osce mediation as this order erodes? Study of the Ukraine crisis in light of other protracted conflicts on the territory of the former Soviet Union shows that the same challenges have existed for a generation. Because the conflicts were small, however, the international community chose to accept a fiction of convenience to isolate them from an otherwise functioning international order: the narrative that the separatists sought independence, not (as in reality) a re-drawing of post-Soviet borders. This isolation is under pressure both from the new experience in Ukraine and from the extension of ever-greater Russian control over the separatists, amounting to crypto-annexation, despite a backlash from Moscow’s clients, including in Armenia. There is little likelihood of a resolution to the Ukraine crisis, including Russia’s annexation of Crimea, and prospects for mediation to resolve the conflicts remain dim. However, continued talks may resolve some humanitarian issues and provide a release valve to prevent pressures boiling over into renewed open warfare.

In 2015 the present author published an article outlining some effects of the Ukraine crisis on protracted conflicts in the osce area and on osce mediation in those conflicts.
1
He has been asked to revisit his assessment of that time in light of subsequent events in world politics (in particular the advent of a new administration in the United States) and in the region. The new developments give little cause for optimism that settlement in any of the conflicts is closer. Rather, the question for the osce is whether the international community, in view of the challenges posed by the Ukraine crisis, should continue to engage in the fictions that have allowed it to manage the conflicts since their beginnings in the collapsing Soviet Union.
Forty-five Years of Dialogue Facilitation (1972–2017)
Authors: Crump Laurien
Published: September 2017

The aim of this article is to investigate how the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe (csce) succeeded in channelling the Cold War in a peaceful direction by facilitating a Pan-European dialogue during the second half of the Cold War (1972–1990), and what lessons we can learn from it today in terms of dialogue facilitation, so as to raise the profile of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe and reduce international tensions. It is based on the hypothesis that the csce facilitated the ‘multilateralisation of European security’ through dialogue, and stabilised European relations by turning security into a joint venture. This article concludes with ten recommendations for facilitating dialogue through the osce so as to multilateralise European security again today.
Semenovia torilifolia is conspecific with S. malcolmii (Apiaceae) based on morphology and molecular data
Authors: XIAO QUN-YING , HU HAO-YU , TONG FEN , LI MIN-JIE , HE XING-JIN
Published: September 2017

Semenovia torilifolia and S. malcolmii have been recorded to co-occur in Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau and adjacent regions. However, there were no available diagnostic characters to distinguish them. In the present study, we reconstructed the phylogeny based on nuclear ITS and ETS regions, and explored valid morphological traits through extensive fieldwork, specimen examinations and literature reviews, to determine the relationship between S. torilifolia and S. malcolmii. Our field investigations found that the morphological characters between S. torilifolia and S. malcolmii are continuous. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that S. torilifolia and S. malcolmii are nested together and formed a well-supported monophyletic taxa (90% BS, 1.00 PP) within Semenovia clade. It is thus sweeping concluded that S. torilifolia is conspecific with S. malcolmii.
A Study of the Effect of a Protein on the Structure of Water in Solution Using Terahertz Time-Domain Spectroscopy
Authors: Penkov Nikita , Yashin Valery , Fesenko Eugeny , Manokhin Andrew , Fesenko Eugeny
Published: September 2017

Terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) was used to determine the spectra (range = 1.2–120 cm−1) of aqueous solutions of bovine serum albumin (BSA) at pH range 2.5–10. Under each of the selected pH, BSA molecules exist in a different conformation, compared to other pH values. The spectra were used to calculate the functions of the dielectric permittivity of BSA solutions. Dielectric functions of the aqueous phase of BSA solutions were calculated based on the Bruggeman model, without the contribution of BSA itself. Fitting of the dielectric functions was performed using a model which includes three water spectral bands: two relaxation bands with relaxation times of about 8.28 and 0.3 ps and a vibrational band with a maximum of about 180 cm−1. The parameters of these bands were determined through fitting and physical interpretation at the molecular level can be provided for each of them. A comparison between the values of model parameters of solutions with BSA and without BSA allowed to conclude that the main effect of BSA is the formation of strongly bound hydration shells in the immediate proximity to the protein molecule. At the same time, the structure of more distant layers of the hydration shells is destroyed, with an increased formation of free water molecules. Some differences are observed in the effect of different BSA conformations on the aqueous phase of solution. The proposed approach can be generalized and applied for studying of a wide class of biological macromolecules in aqueous solutions.
Edge-Preserving Image Smoothing Constraint in Multivariate Curve Resolution–Alternating Least Squares (MCR-ALS) of Hyperspectral Data
Authors: Hugelier Siewert , Vitale Raffaele , Ruckebusch Cyril
Published: September 2017

This article explores smoothing with edge-preserving properties as a spatial constraint for the resolution of hyperspectral images with multivariate curve resolution–alternating least squares (MCR-ALS). For each constrained component image (distribution map), irrelevant spatial details and noise are smoothed applying an L1- or L0-norm penalized least squares regression, highlighting in this way big changes in intensity of adjacent pixels. The feasibility of the constraint is demonstrated on three different case studies, in which the objects under investigation are spatially clearly defined, but have significant spectral overlap. This spectral overlap is detrimental for obtaining a good resolution and additional spatial information should be provided. The final results show that the spatial constraint enables better image (map) abstraction, artifact removal, and better interpretation of the results obtained, compared to a classical MCR-ALS analysis of hyperspectral images.
Turning an idea into reality: Creating the European Institute of Peace
Authors: Bergmann Julian
Published: September 2017

This article explains the creation of the European Institute of Peace (EIP) in May 2014. Combining constructivist insights on policy ideas with a framing approach, it proposes a conceptual framework to analyse the dynamics of interaction between state and non-state actors (NSAs) with regard to formulating new policies and creating new institutions. Focusing on the role of frame entrepreneurs, framing strategies and frame resonance, it argues that the creation of the EIP was a result of framing undertaken by an advocacy coalition in which Sweden and Finland, together with specialized NGOs and individual Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), played the role of frame entrepreneurs. This advocacy coalition managed to convince a number of European states there was a certain gap in the EU’s mediation capacities and that a new institution independent of the EU was needed to address it. The limited degree of frame resonance among the majority of EU member states and their reluctance to join the institute explain why the EIP initiative struggled to receive broad political support.
Impact of Frequent Interruption on Nurses’ Patient-Controlled Analgesia Programming Performance
Authors: Campoe Kristi R. , Giuliano Karen K.
Published: September 2017

Objective:

The purpose was to add to the body of knowledge regarding the impact of interruption on acute care nurses’ cognitive workload, total task completion times, nurse frustration, and medication administration error while programming a patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pump.

Background:

Data support that the severity of medication administration error increases with the number of interruptions, which is especially critical during the administration of high-risk medications. Bar code technology, interruption-free zones, and medication safety vests have been shown to decrease administration-related errors. However, there are few published data regarding the impact of number of interruptions on nurses’ clinical performance during PCA programming.

Method:

Nine acute care nurses completed three PCA pump programming tasks in a simulation laboratory. Programming tasks were completed under three conditions where the number of interruptions varied between two, four, and six. Outcome measures included cognitive workload (six NASA Task Load Index [NASA-TLX] subscales), total task completion time (seconds), nurse frustration (NASA-TLX Subscale 6), and PCA medication administration error (incorrect final programming).

Results:

Increases in the number of interruptions were associated with significant increases in total task completion time ( p = .003). We also found increases in nurses’ cognitive workload, nurse frustration, and PCA pump programming errors, but these increases were not statistically significant.

Applications:

Complex technology use permeates the acute care nursing practice environment. These results add new knowledge on nurses’ clinical performance during PCA pump programming and high-risk medication administration.