bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geology, Fluid Inclusion and Stable Isotope Constraints on the Fluid Evolution and Resource Potential of the Xiadian Gold Deposit, Jiaodong Peninsula
Authors: Chai Peng , Hou Zeng‐qian , Zhang Zhi‐yu
Published: June 2017

The Xiadan gold deposit from Jiaodong Peninsula contains more than 200 t of gold, and is one of the representative largest deposits within south part of the Zhaoping Fault zone. The gold orebodies consist of auriferous altered rocks that show disseminated and stockwork mineralization. Mineralization and alteration are structurally controlled by the NE‐ to NNE‐striking Linglong detachment fault. Mineralization can be divided into three stages: (K‐feldspar)–sericite–quartz–pyrite, quartz–gold–polymetallic sulfide, and quartz–carbonate, with the majority of the gold being produced during the middle stage. Based on a combination of petrography, microthermometry, and laser Raman spectroscopy, three types of fluid inclusion were identified in the vein mineral assemblages: NaCl–H2O (A‐type), CO2–H2O–NaCl (AC‐type), and pure CO2(PC‐type). Quartz crystals in veins that formed during the early stage contain mainly AC‐type primary fluid inclusions, with rare PC‐type inclusions. These fluid inclusions homogenize completely at temperatures of 253°C–408°C and have medium–low salinities (1.62–11.89 wt.% NaCl equivalent). Quartz crystals that formed during the middle stage contain all three types of fluid inclusion, and these fluid inclusions homogenize completely at temperatures of 176°C–335°C and have salinities of 0.70–14.73 wt.% NaCl equivalent. In contrast, quartz that formed during the last stage contains only A‐type fluid inclusions; these inclusions have homogenization temperatures of 108°C–253°C and salinities of 1.73–11.60 wt.% NaCl equivalent. The above data indicate that the ore‐forming system evolved from a CO2‐rich mesothermal fluid into a CO2‐poor fluid as a result of an influx of meteoric water. Fluid immiscibility is an essential prerequisite for metals precipitation in Xiadian. The characteristics of fluid inclusions, combined with H–O–S isotopes suggest that the ore‐forming fluids might be of metamorphic origin. Based on the immiscibility of AC‐type fluid inclusions, trapping pressures have been estimated at 88–339 MPa during ore formation, with a depth of metallogenesis of 8.8–12.6 km. The depth of erosion of study area has been calculated as about 10.3 km between 130 Ma and the present. Considering the gold mineralization occurred at around 130 Ma, the space with deep gold exploration is expectable at Xiadian.
Pronase treatment improves flow cytometry crossmatching results
Authors: Apithy M.‐J. , Desoutter J. , Gicquel A. , Guiheneuf E. , Westeel P.‐F. , Lesage A. , Piot V. , Choukroun G. , Guillaume N.
Published: June 2017

Flow cytometry crossmatching (FC‐XM) is the most sensitive cell‐based method for detecting donor‐specific antibodies in clinical organ transplantation. Unfortunately, background FC‐XM reactivity is elevated in assays with B lymphocytes—partly because of nonspecific immunoglobulin binding by Fc receptors and B‐cell surface immunoglobulins. To reduce the background reactivity in a B‐cell FC‐XM assay, we treated lymphocytes with pronase (1 mg/mL for 30 minutes). This treatment drastically reduced the presence of kappa light chains and Fc receptors (CD32b), while the concomitant decrease in CD19, CD20 and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) I and II expression on B‐cells was acceptable. Higher pronase concentrations (>2 mg/mL) started to significantly affect CD19, CD20, MHC‐I and ‐II expression on B‐cells. In subsequent prospective experiments (on 42 donor cells tested with 102 sera), we found that pronase treatment was associated with a relative increase of the sensitivity and specificity in our B‐cell FC‐XM assay.
HLA‐DQB1*05:144, a novel allele, discovered in a Southeast Asian donor for stem cell transplantation
Authors: Mostafa A. A. , Khan F. M. , Stamm L. , Petrosenko M. , Berka N.
Published: June 2017

HLA‐DQB1*05:144 differs from HLA‐DQB1*05:01:01 by a single substitution in exon 3.
Atomic hydrogen induced defect kinetics in amorphous silicon
Authors: Peeters Floran J. J. , Zheng Jie , Aarts Igor M. P. , Pipino Andrew C. R. , Kessels Wilhelmus M. M. , van de Sanden Mauritius C. M.
Published: June 2017

Near-infrared evanescent-wave cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS) has been applied to study the defect evolution in an amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) thin film subjected to a directed beam of atomic H with a flux of (0.4–2) × 1014 cm−2 s−1. To this end, a 42 ± 2 nm a-Si:H film was grown on the total internal reflection surface of a folded miniature optical resonator by hot-wire chemical vapor deposition. A fully reversible defect creation process is observed, with a nonlinear dependence on H flux, with a time resolution of 33 ms and a relative sensitivity of 10−7. Using polarizing optics, the CRDS signal was split into s- and p-polarized components, which, combined with E-field calculations, provides depth sensitivity. Extensive kinetic modeling of the observed process is used to determine rate constants for the hydrogen–material interactions and defect formation in a-Si:H, as well as revealing a high diffusion coefficient for atomic H on the order of 10−11 cm2 s−1. A novel reaction pathway is proposed, whereby H inserted into weak Si–Si bonds recombines with mobile H, resulting in a limited penetration depth for atomic H from the gas-phase on the order of 10–15 nm.
In-Water Resisted Swim Training for Age-Group Swimmers: An Evaluation of Training Effects
Authors: Kojima Kosuke , Brammer Christopher L. , Sossong Tyler D. , Abe Takashi , Stager Joel M.
Published: June 2017

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to compare the efficacy of resisted sprint swim training with that of nonresisted sprint swim training on 50-m freestyle competition time (Vmax50) in age-group swimmers. Methods: Twenty-four age-group swimmers (age 10.6–14.9 y) were divided into resisted or nonresisted sprint swim training groups and completed a sprint swim training intervention 2 times per week for 10 weeks. Repeated 10-m sprints with progressively increasing resistance were used to determine measures of swim power. Skeletal muscle mass was estimated using B-mode ultrasound. Maturity status was estimated using predicted adult height (%Htadult) and maturity offset. Results: A 2-way repeated-measures analysis of variance revealed no group × time interaction for measured variables. Vmax50 was correlated with skeletal muscle mass and swim power variables, but no significant relationship was found between relative changes in these variables. Estimated maturity status (%Htadult) appeared to be associated with initial measures of swim power and performance variables. Conclusions: Ten weeks of resisted sprint swim training was not any more effective than nonresisted sprint swim training at improving sprint swim performance in age-group swimmers.
Gene-by-Activity Interactions on Obesity Traits of 6-Year-Old New Zealand European Children: A Children of SCOPE Study
Authors: Krishnan Mohanraj , Shelling Andrew N. , Wall Clare R. , Mitchell Edwin A. , Murphy Rinki , McCowan Lesley M.E. , Thompson John M.D.
Published: June 2017

Purpose: The decline of physical activity in children is considered an important determinant to explain the rising rates of obesity. However, this risk may be augmented in children who are genetically susceptible to increased weight gain. We hypothesized that a sedentary lifestyle and moderate activity will interact with genetic loci, resulting in differential effects in relation to obesity risk. Methods: We recruited 643 European children born to participants in the New Zealand-based Screening for Pregnancy Endpoints (SCOPE) study. Seventy gene variants were evaluated by the Sequenom assay. Interaction analyses were performed between the genetic variants and the activity type derived from actigraphy, in relation to percentage body fat. Results: We found a statistically significant association between increased proportions of sedentary activity with increased percentage body fat scores (P = .012). The OLFM4-9568856 (P = .01) and GNPDA2-rs10938397 (P = .044) gene variants showed genotype differences with proportions of sedentary activity. Similarly, the OLFM4-9568856 (P = .021), CLOCK-rs4864548 (P = .029), and LEPR-1045895 (P = .047) showed genotype differences with proportions of moderate activity. We found evidence for unadjusted gene-by-activity interactions of SPACA3/SPRASA-rs16967845, PFKP-rs6602024, and SH2B1-rs7498665 on percentage body fat scores. Conclusions: These findings indicate a differential effect of physical activity in relation to obesity risk, suggesting that children genetically predisposed to increased weight gain may benefit from higher levels of moderate activity.
Space ripples may untangle black hole tango
Authors: Cho Adrian
Published: June 2017

Latest gravitational-wave observation suggests stellar ghosts form first, pair later.
Saving the ‘God of ugly things’
Authors: Pennisi Elizabeth
Published: June 2017

Nearly wiped out by invasive mammals, New Zealand's mouse-sized insects, called giant weta, are making a comeback.
Rethinking the dreaded r-word
Authors: Enserink Martin
Published: June 2017

Two groups propose ways to make it easier to retract a paper—by not calling it a retraction.
India resurrects forgotten leprosy vaccine
Authors: Kumar Sanjay
Published: June 2017

Large-scale use of vaccine aims to break stalemate against the disease by protecting people most at risk.
The Invisible Army
Authors: Gilligan Peter H.
Published: June 2017

The “invisible army” of clinical microbiologists is facing major changes and challenges. The rate of change in both the science and technology is accelerating with no end in sight, putting pressure on our army to learn and adapt as never before. Health care funding in the United States is undergoing dramatic change which will require a new set of assumptions about how clinical microbiology is practiced here. A major challenge facing the discipline is the replacement of a generation of clinical microbiologists. In my opinion, it is incumbent on us in the invisible army to continue to work with the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) in meeting the future challenges faced by our discipline. In this commentary, I will first discuss some recent history of clinical microbiology within ASM and then some current challenges we face.
Parenting stress trajectories in mothers of very preterm infants to 2 years
Authors: Gray Peter H , Edwards Dawn M , Gibbons Kristen
Published: June 2017

Objective

To examine levels of parenting stress in mothers of preterm and term infants when the children were 2 years old; to determine the trajectory of stress over three time periods and to examine the association of maternal and neonatal factors and developmental outcomes with parenting stress.

Design

It is a prospective longitudinal study to determine parenting stress in mothers of preterm and term infants with outcomes having been previously obtained at 4 and 12 months. At 2 years, 79 preterm mothers (96 babies) and 64 term mothers (77 babies) participated. The mothers completed the Parenting Stress Index-Short Form (PSI-SF), the Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale (DASS) and the Child Behaviour Checklist (CBCL). The infants had a neurological examination and the Bayley-III scales were administered.

Results

The mean total PSI-SF at 2 years was significantly higher for the preterm group compared with the term group of mothers (p=0.007). There was a significant increase in the mean total PSI over time for the preterm mothers (p<0.001). For mothers at 2 years, there was an association with high levels of parenting stress and abnormal scores on the DASS (p<0.001) and high total T-scores on the CBCL (internalising p<0.001; externalising p=0.006). There was no association between parenting stress and maternal demographics, neonatal factors or Bayley-III results.

Conclusions

Parenting stress in mothers of preterm infants continues to be high at 2 years having increased over time. Maternal mental health problems and infant behavioural issues contribute to the stress.
Evaluation of a multiple-encounter in situ simulation for orientation of staff to a new paediatric emergency service: a single-group pretest/post-test study
Authors: Davison Michelle , Kinnear Frances B , Fulbrook Paul
Published: June 2017

Aim

To assess the utility of a multiple-encounter in-situ (MEIS) simulation as an orientation tool for multidisciplinary staff prior to opening a new paediatric emergency service.

Methods

A single-group pretest/post-test study was conducted. During the MEIS simulation, multidisciplinary staff with participant or observer roles managed eight children (mannequins) who attended triage with their parent/guardians (clinical facilitators) for a range of emergency presentations (structured scenarios designed to represent the expected range of presentations plus test various clinical pathways/systems). Participants were debriefed to explore clinical, systems and crisis-resource management issues. Participants also completed a pre-intervention and post-intervention questionnaire comprising statements about role confidence and orientation adequacy. Pre-test and post-test results were analysed using t-test and Wilcoxon signed rank test.

Results

Eighty-nine staff participated in the MEIS simulation, with the majority completing the pre-simulation and post-simulation questionnaire. There was a significant improvement in post-intervention versus pre-intervention Likert scores for role confidence and orientation adequacy (p=0.001 and <0.001, respectively); effect sizes suggested the greatest impact was on orientation adequacy. Nearly all scenarios resulted in significant increases in participants’ confidence levels.

Conclusions

The MEIS simulation was of utility in orientation of staff, at least with respect to self-reported role confidence and orientation adequacy. Its effectiveness in practice or compared with other orientation techniques was not assessed, but it did identify several flaws in planned systems allowing remediation prior to opening.
A Review on Annona squamosa L.: Phytochemicals and Biological Activities
Authors: Ma Chengyao , Chen Yayun , Chen Jianwei , Li Xiang , Chen Yong
Published: June 2017

Annona squamosa L. (Annonaceae) is a fruit tree with a long history of traditional uses. A. squamosa is an evergreen plant mainly located in tropical and subtropical regions. Srikayas, the fruits of A. squamosa, are extensively used to prepare candies, ice creams and beverages. A wide range of ethno-medicinal uses has been related to different portions of A. squamosa, such as tonic, apophlegmatisant, cool medicine, abortient and heart sedative. Numerous research projects on A. squamosa have found that it has anticancer, anti-oxidant, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, hepatoprotective, antiparasitic, antimalarial, insecticidal, microbicidel and molluscicidal activities. Phytochemistry investigations on A. squamosa have considered annonaceous acetogenins (ACGs), diterpenes (DITs), alkaloids (ALKs) and cyclopeptides (CPs) as the main constituents. Until 2016, 33 DITs, 19 ALKs, 88 ACGs and 13 CPs from this species were reported. On the basis of the multiple researches on A. squamosa, this review strives to integrate available information on its phytochemicals, folklore uses and bioactivities, hoping to promote a better understanding of its medicinal values.
Geraniin Promotes Recovery of Hematopoietic Cells after Radiation Injury
Authors: Bing So Jin , Cho Jinhee , Kim Areum , Herath Kalahe Hewage Iresha Nadeeka Madush , Ahn Ginnae , Lee Nam Ho , Park Jae Woo , Jee Youngheun
Published: June 2017

Cells of the hematopoietic system are uniquely radiosensitive due to their rapid proliferation. Consequently, immune suppression readily and undesirably results from irradiation. Our previous studies demonstrated that geraniin isolated from Nymphaea tetragona var. angusta (water lily) had a protective effect on the splenocytes and intestinal tract of irradiated mice. This study was designed to assess the effectiveness of geraniin, an ellagitannin isolated from the water lily, in decreasing gamma ray irradiation-induced destruction of the hematopoietic system in mice. Geraniin treatment improved the survival time of bone marrow cells and maintained bone marrow integrity and also up-regulated the expression of stem cell receptors and the extent of cell mitosis. Geraniin also enhanced the proliferation and differentiation of immune cells that had been suppressed by irradiation. These results suggest geraniin is a promising agent for reconstituting hematopoietic cells after exposure to irradiation.
Cinnamomum cassiaPrevents High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity in Mice through the Increase of Muscle Energy
Authors: Song Mi Young , Kang Seok Yong , Kang Anna , Hwang Ji Hye , Park Yong-Ki , Jung Hyo Won
Published: June 2017

The cortex of Cinnamomum cassia Presl (Cinnamomi Cortex: CC) has commonly been used for weight control in traditional medicines, but without a scientific basis. Therefore, this study was undertaken to investigate the anti-obesity effect of CC extract in a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mouse model and in C2C12 mouse skeletal muscle cells. Male C57BL/6 mice were fed a normal diet or a HFD for 16 consecutive weeks, and orally administered CC extract (100 or 300[Formula: see text]mg/kg) or metformin (250[Formula: see text]mg/kg; positive control) daily for 16 weeks. CC extract administration significantly decreased body weights, food intakes, and serum levels of glucose, insulin, total cholesterol and ALT levels, prevented oral glucose tolerance and insulin resistance, inhibited the protein expressions of MyHC and PGC1[Formula: see text] and the phosphorylation of AMPK, suppressed lipid accumulation in liver, decreased adipocyte size and increased muscle mass in obese mice. For this in vitro study, C2C12 myoblasts were differentiated into the myotubes for five days, and then treated with CC extract (0.1 or 0.2[Formula: see text]mg/ml) for 24[Formula: see text]h. CC extract significantly increased ATP levels by increasing the mRNA expressions of mitochondrial biogenesis-related factors, such as, PGC1[Formula: see text], NRF-1, and Tfam, and the phosphorylations of AMPK and ACC. Our results suggest CC extract controls weight gain in obese mice by inhibiting lipid accumulation and increasing energy expenditure, and that its action mechanism involves the up-regulation of mitochondrial biogenesis in skeletal muscle cells.
Joint Optimization of Production Plan and Preventive Maintenance Schedule by Stackelberg Game
Authors: Hu Jiawen , Jiang Zuhua , Wang Hong
Published: June 2017

This paper considers the situation where the production planning sector has decision making priority over the maintenance sector. The production rate of each production period (PP) varies with different lot size of each PP. An extended imperfect preventive maintenance (PM) model is proposed for a system running with time-varying production rate. The Stackelberg game theory model is adopted to handle the interactive effect between production plan and PM schedule; meanwhile, it embodies the decision priority of the production planning sector. In the Stackelberg game theory model, the production planning sector is assigned to be the leader with the decision variable of production rate of each PP, and the maintenance sector to be the follower with the decision variable of PM schedule. Firstly, the optimal lot size of each item for each PP is obtained for the production planning sector. Then, the optimal production rate of each PP and PM sequences are obtained simultaneously by regarding the total lot size of each PP as the objective. The availability loss caused by maintenance operations and effect of production rate on hazard rate function of system have been considered. An example is studied to illustrate the effectiveness of the model, also the results are fully analyzed.
Two-state magnetic field Aharonov–Bohm effect and the wave–particle duality in a Mach–Zehnder interferometer
Authors: Bendahane M. , El Atiki M. , Kassou-Ou-Ali A.
Published: June 2017

In this work, we study the wave particle duality and the Aharonov–Bohm effect in a Mach–Zehnder interferometer in a magnetic field which is in a superposition of two opposite directions. In addition, a “classical” experimental scheme is proposed which mimics such an interferometer.
Synthesis of novel single site tin porphyrin complexes and the catalytic activity of tin tetrakis(4-fluorophenyl)porphyrin over 𝜀-caprolactone
Authors: Yaman Hanifi , Kayan Asgar
Published: June 2017

Tin tetrakis(4-fluorophenyl)porphyrin, tin tetrakis(4-chlorophenyl)porphyrin and tin tetrakis(4-bromophenyl)porphyrin complexes were prepared by reaction of butyltin trichloride with tetrakis(4-fluorophenyl)porphyrin, tetrakis(4-chlorophenyl)porphyrin, and tetrakis(4-bromophenyl)porphyrin in tetrahydrofuran and toluene, respectively. These novel complexes were characterized by [Formula: see text]H, [Formula: see text]C NMR, FTIR, mass spectroscopy and elemental analysis. The single site tin complex including fluoride was tested as a catalyst in polymerization of [Formula: see text]-caprolactone and was very effective. Polycaprolactone was characterized by [Formula: see text]H, [Formula: see text]C NMR, and gel permeation chromatography.
China’s Trade Faces Mounting Difficulties in 2017
Authors: TONG Sarah Y
Published: June 2017

Dismal trade performance contributed to China’s recent growth deceleration. In 2017, China’s trade will likely be impacted by persistent weak external demand, rising trade remedies by importing countries and intense competition from other developing countries. Trade frictions between China and the United States may intensify. To sustain trade development, the Chinese government has modified its policy orientations and is accelerating regional trade talks such as the Free Trade Area of the Asia Pacific and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership.
Binormal Motion of Curves with Constant Torsion in 3-Spaces
Authors: Arroyo Josu , Garay Óscar J. , Pámpano Álvaro
Published: June 2017

We study curve motion by the binormal flow with curvature and torsion depending velocity and sweeping out immersed surfaces. Using the Gauss-Codazzi equations, we obtain filaments evolving with constant torsion which arise from extremal curves of curvature energy functionals. They are “soliton” solutions in the sense that they evolve without changing shape.
Radiosensitization of Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma with MDM2 Inhibition
Authors: Prabakaran Prashanth J. , Javaid Amal M. , Swick Adam D. , Werner Lauryn R. , Nickel Kwangok P. , Sampene Emmanuel , Hu Rong , Ong Irene M. , Bruce Justine Y. , Hartig Gregory K. , Wieland Aaron M. , Canon Jude , Harari Paul M. , Kimple Randall J.
Published: June 2017

Purpose: Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is a rare cancer arising from the major or minor salivary gland tissues of the head and neck. There are currently no approved systemic agents or known radiosensitizers for ACC. Unlike the more common head and neck squamous cell carcinomas that frequently harbor TP53 mutations, ACCs contain TP53 mutations at a rate of <5%, rendering them an attractive target for MDM2 inhibition.

Experimental Design: We report the successful establishment and detailed characterization of a TP53-WT ACC patient-derived xenograft (PDX), which retained the histologic features of the original patient tumor. We evaluated this model for response to the MDM2 inhibitor AMG 232 as monotherapy and in combination with radiotherapy.

Results: AMG 232 monotherapy induced modest tumor growth inhibition, and radiation monotherapy induced a transient tumor growth delay in a dose-dependent fashion. Strikingly, combination treatment of AMG 232 with radiotherapy (including low-dose radiotherapy of 2 Gy/fraction) induced dramatic tumor response and high local tumor control rates 3 months following treatment. Posttreatment analysis revealed that although both AMG 232 and radiotherapy alone induced TP53 tumor-suppressive activities, combination therapy amplified this response with potent induction of apoptosis after combination treatment.

Conclusions: These data identify that MDM2 inhibition can provide potent radiosensitization in TP53-WT ACC. In light of the absence of effective systemic agents for ACC, the powerful response profile observed here suggests that clinical trial evaluation of this drug/radiotherapy combination may be warranted to improve local control in this challenging malignancy. Clin Cancer Res; 23(20); 6044–53. ©2017 AACR.
Effects of N-Nitrosodiethylamine, a Potent Carcinogen, on Sexual Development, Gametogenesis, and Oocyte Maturation
Authors: Nair U Reshma , Victor Anju C. , Paul Vinod , Paul-Prasanth Bindhu
Published: June 2017

N-Nitrosodiethylamine (DEN), a well-known hepatocarcinogen, is found in certain food products as such or as a metabolic byproduct. This study investigated the effects of DEN on sexual development, gametogenesis, and oocyte maturation in Japanese medaka (Oryzias latipes). DEN reduced the germ cell number dose-dependently during early stages of sexual differentiation in XX larvae, resulting in underdeveloped ovaries in adulthood at low doses. This effect was sex-specific as no such changes were seen in XY larvae. Furthermore, XX and XY larvae that were exposed at a low dose during early life showed a significant reduction in body weight in adulthood. Gonads in sexually immature adult medaka males and females exposed to DEN were in advanced stages in comparison to that of the controls. Gonado-somatic indices were significantly high in treated males and females. DEN induced oocyte maturation in vitro, which was inhibited by cordycepin, demonstrating that it stimulated oocyte maturation through polyadenylation of cyclin B mRNA as in the case of the endogenous maturation-inducing hormone. Altogether, our results have proven that DEN could disrupt or mimic the signaling pathways involved in germ cell development, proliferation, and maturation.
Preventing Hereditary Angioedema Attacks in Children Using Cinryze®: Interim Efficacy and Safety Phase 3 Findings
Authors: Aygören-Pürsün Emel , Soteres Daniel , Moldovan Dumitru , Christensen Jim , Van Leerberghe Arthur , Hao James , Schranz Jennifer , Jacobson Kraig W. , Martinez-Saguer Inmaculada
Published: June 2017

Background: Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare genetic disease causing unpredictable and potentially life-threatening subcutaneous and submucosal edematous attacks. Cinryze® (Shire ViroPharma Inc., Lexington, MA, USA), a nanofiltered C1 inhibitor (C1-INH), is approved in Europe for the treatment, preprocedure prevention, and routine prophylaxis of HAE attacks, and for the routine prophylaxis of attacks in the USA. This phase 3 study assessed the safety and efficacy of 2 C1-INH doses in preventing attacks in children aged 6-11 years. Methods: A randomized single-blind crossover study was initiated in March 2014. Results for the first 6 patients completing the study are reported here. After a 12-week qualifying observation period, patients were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 C1-INH doses, 500 or 1,000 U, every 3-4 days for 12 weeks and crossed over to the alternative dose for a second 12-week period. The primary efficacy endpoint was the number of angioedema attacks per month. Results: Six females with HAE type I and a median age of 10.5 years received 2 doses of C1-INH (500 and 1,000 U). The mean (SD) difference in the number of monthly angioedema attacks between the baseline observation period and the treatment period was -1.89 (1.31) with 500 U and -1.89 (1.11) with 1,000 U. During the treatment periods, cumulative attack severity, cumulative daily severity, and the number of attacks needing acute treatment were lower. No serious adverse events or study drug discontinuations occurred. Conclusions: Interim findings from this study indicate that routine prevention with intravenous administration of C1-INH is efficacious, safe, and well tolerated in children ≥6 years of age.
The Effects of Switching to Vonoprazan, a Novel Potassium-Competitive Acid Blocker, on Gastric Acidity and Reflux Patterns in Patients with Erosive Esophagitis Refractory to Proton Pump Inhibitors
Authors: Yamashita Hiroshi , Kanamori Atsushi , Kano Chise , Hashimura Hiroki , Matsumoto Kei , Tsujimae Masahiro , Yoshizaki Tetsuya , Momose Kenji , Obata Daisuke , Eguchi Takaaki , Fujita Mikio , Okada Akihiko
Published: June 2017

Background/Aim: The effects of vonoprazan and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) in patients with reflux esophagitis (RE) have not yet been compared using multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH (MII-pH). Methods: A total of 8 patients with persistent gastric mucosal injury, despite completing an 8-week standard PPI therapy, were enrolled in the study. While they were on standard PPI therapy, the baseline values of reflux parameters, holding time ratio (HTR) of gastric pH >4, and esophageal pH <4 were obtained by using 24 h MII-pH monitoring. They were re-evaluated after discontinuation of the therapy and 4 weeks of subsequent treatment with vonoprazan 20 mg/day. Results: The patients were found to be CYP2C19 extensive metabolizers and negative for Helicobacter pylori infection. In 7 patients (87.5%), the mucosal lesions had healed completely after vonoprazan therapy. A significant increase in gastric pH >4 HTR was observed, from 26.5 to 78.0% (p = 0.029). A reduction in esophageal pH <4 HTR was also observed but it was not statistically significant. Furthermore, acid clearance time and the total number of reflux events, including acid and proximal reflux events, were significantly reduced. Conclusion: Vonoprazan may be a better therapy for the treatment of patients with PPI-refractory RE.
Levistolide A Induces Apoptosis via ROS-Mediated ER Stress Pathway in Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Yang Yingjuan , Zhang Yanhua , Wang Lan , Lee Shaochin
Published: June 2017

Background/Aims: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide. Levistolide A (LA), a natural compound isolated from the traditional Chinese herb Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort, is used for treating cancer. In this study, we investigated the anticancer effect of LA in HCT116 and its isogenic p53-/- colon cancer cells, as well as the underlying mechanisms. Methods: MTT assay was used to evaluate the effect of LA on the viability of cancer cells. Apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by the cells were determined by flow cytometry. Protein expression was detected by western blotting. Results: The results showed that LA inhibited viability and caused apoptosis of both wild-type and p53-/- HCT116 cells. LA was able to trigger production of ROS and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Inhibition of ROS using N-acetylcysteine abrogated LA-induced ER stress and apoptosis, as well as the reduction in cancer cell viability. Conclusion: Our results indicate that LA causes apoptosis of colon cancer cells via ROS-mediated ER stress pathway. It will be interesting to develop the natural compound for chemotherapy of cancers such as CRC.
Neuroprotective Effects of Pycnogenol Against Oxygen-Glucose Deprivation/Reoxygenation-Induced Injury in Primary Rat Astrocytes via NF-κB and ERK1/2 MAPK Pathways
Authors: Xia Ruixue , Ji Chunxue , Zhang Leguo
Published: June 2017

Backgrounds/Aims: Pycnogenol (PYC) is a patented mix of bioflavonoids with potent anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, we investigated the effects of PYC on oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R)-induced injury in primary rat astrocytes. Methods: The primary rat astrocytes were randomly divided into 6 groups, blank control, OGD/R, OGD/R+PYC (10, 20, 40, and 60 µg/mL). The cell activity were detected by MTT and LDH assays, then the levels of oxidant products [malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS)] , antioxidants [superoxide dismutase (SOD)], mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and inflammatory cytokines were detected. In addition, the expression levels of apoptosis-related proteins (Bax, Bcl-2 and Cleaved caspase 3), proinflammatory factors (NF-κB p65), and p-ERK1/2 were measured by Western blot analysis. Results: The results showed that PYC incubation dose-dependently attenuated cell viability loss, LDH leakage, oxidative stress, inflammatory cytokines accumulation and cell apoptosis caused by OGD/R. Furthermore, PYC pretreatment dose-dependently suppressed OGD/R-induced NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation, NF-κB activity and ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Similarly to PYC, NF-κB inhibitor PDTC and ERK1/2 inhibitor PD098059 dramatically inhibited OGD/R-induced NF-κB activation, ERK1/2 phosphorylation, and ROS production, as well as TNF-α secretion. Conclusions: These findings revealed that PYC has neuroprotective effects against OGD/R-induced injury via NF-κB and ERK1/2 pathways in primary rat astrocytes.
Modulation of Oxidative Stress by 17 β-Estradiol and Genistein in Human Hepatic Cell Lines In Vitro
Authors: Surico Daniela , Ercoli Alfredo , Farruggio Serena , Raina Giulia , Filippini Davide , Mary David , Minisini Rosalba , Surico Nicola , Pirisi Mario , Grossini Elena
Published: June 2017

Background/Aims: estrogens and phytoestrogens exert hepatoprotection through mechanisms not clearly examined yet. Here, we investigated the protective effects exerted by 17β-estradiol and genistein against oxidative stress in hepatocytes and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and the involvement of specific receptors and the intracellular signalling. Methods: Huh7.5 and LX-2, alone or in co-culture with Huh7.5, were treated with 17β-estradiol and genistein alone or in the presence of menadione and of estrogen receptors (ERs) and G protein-coupled-estrogenic-receptors (GPER) blockers. Cell viability, mitochondrial membrane potential and oxidant/antioxidant system were measured by specific kits. Western Blot was used for the analysis of Akt and p38-mitogen-activated-protein kinases (MAPK) activation and α-smooth-muscle actin expression. Results: In Huh7.5, 17β-estradiol and genistein prevented the effects of peroxidation by modulating Akt and p38MAPK activation. Similar antioxidant and protective findings were obtained in LX-2 of co-culture experiments, only. ERs and GPER blockers were able to prevent the effects of 17β-estradiol and genistein. Conclusion: In Huh7.5 and LX-2, 17β-estradiol and genistein counteract the effects of peroxidation through the involvement of ERs and GPER and by an intracellular signalling related to Akt and p38MAPK. As concerning LX-2, paracrine factors released by Huh7.5 play a key role in protection against oxidative stress.
Atores políticos e Parlamento brasileiro no Mercosul
Authors: Oliveira Marcelo Fernandes de
Published: June 2017

O objetivo deste artigo é buscar compreender como agem e se posicionam os partidos políticos e seus respectivos parlamentares na representação do poder Legislativo brasileiro na Comissão Parlamentar Conjunta do Mercosul. A importância dessa análise deriva do fato de serem esses atores políticos responsáveis pela garantia da manutenção dos processos legislativos básicos do sistema democrático no âmbito da integração regional, bem como da fiscalização das ações do poder Executivo nele. Além disso, são atores essenciais para a representação de grupos de interesses econômicos e sociais brasileiros no desenvolvimento do processo de integração regional
A legitimidade da democracia
Authors: Facundo Calegari Nahuel
Published: June 2017

A assimilação mais óbvia das eleições gerais e será constituída de uma morfologia do casal, quer como uma das tensões mais importante da vida democrática, ou como um serviço de primeira ordem reflexiva. A este respeito, embora o princípio da soberania popular foi imediata e, como parceiros principalis aos regimes monárquicos historicamente sem precedentes, a verdade é que uma concepção mecânica e formalista da soberania popular e da regra da maioria foi a nota comum desenvolvimento político posterior, caracterizado por problemas que ocorreram, como corolário dessa tensão, como resultado da consolidação do processo democrático e representativo.
A atuação do Poder Executivo e dos Partidos Políticos no Presidencialismo Chileno (1990-2010): Sistema Eleitoral, Apoio Legislativo, Negociações e Distribuição de Cargos
Authors: Pasquarelli Bruno Vicente Lippe
Published: June 2017

No presidencialismo chileno, após 1990, deu-se início a um novo período democrático que modificou as relações entre o Poder Executivo e o Poder Legislativo, assim como a configuração do sistema eleitoral e dos partidos políticos. Apesar do presidente do país possuir diversos poderes legislativos e não-legislativos, a cooperação e a atuação dos partidos políticos, por meio das coalizões Concertación e Alianza por Chile, é uma característica intrínseca do sistema político-institucional. Sendo assim, o artigo analisa o presidencialismo chileno a partir de variáveis implícitas no processo decisório e no sistema eleitoral, com o objetivo de demonstrar como ocorre a cooperação entre os poderes, a dinâmica partidária, e o processo de indicação ministerial e de eleição para a Presidência da Câmara dos Deputados. Destacam-se, então, as implicações das forças relativas dos poderes do governo e o impacto de variáveis eleitorais, institucionais e partidárias para a cooperação entre os ramos
Sobre esa particular relación entre política y felicidad en el pensamiento aristotélico
Authors: Branda Corina Inés
Published: June 2017

El trabajo analiza y problematiza, a parir de la Ética a Nicómaco y la Política de Aristóteles, la relación entre la vida contemplativa y la vida política, estudiando los puntos de encuentro y tensión entre ambas. La política es de las ciencias prácticas la ciencia soberana. Teniendo presente dicha concepción, se estudiará la relación que guarda con la vida teorética. Si la finalidad de la contemplación es alcanzar la verdadera felicidad para el Estagirita, ¿cuál es el estatuto de la vida política en relación a dicho fin? ¿Cuál es la importancia que le asigna el autor a la política en relación a la verdadera felicidad que la vida filosófica promete?
A democracia nos limites de seu esgarçamento conceitual
Authors: Goulart Mayra
Published: June 2017

Este trabalho visa situar as contribuições antipodais de Carl Schmitt e Jürgen Habermas em um espectro em cujos extremos estão, por um lado, a fé iluminista e, por outro, o ceticismo weberiano. No entanto, mais do que uma análise sobre as contribuições de dois autores, enriquecida pela contraposição, esta reflexão foi concebida com o intuito de desenvolver um embate entre duas perspectivas a respeito da própria filosofia. Em particular, objetivo da pesquisa é apresentar as formas pelas quais estes dois autores se apropriam dos conceitos de soberania popular e direitos humanos, chegando a conclusões que podem ser vistas como antitéticas. Ao final, buscar-se-á imaginar uma possível resposta de Schmitt às críticas que lhe são empreendidas por Jürgen Habermas.
Inclusão, Contribuição, Representação, Participação e Orientação: considerações institucionais e político-culturais
Authors: Figueiredo Alessandro Farage , Rauschenbach Rolf
Published: June 2017

Nos estudos sobre instituições e cultura política as questões de representação e participação tendem a ser limitadas por perspectivas de como e por quem as decisões são tomadas e de que forma esses mecanismos podem ser justificados. Apesar de significativas, essas perspectivas tendem a ignorar que há dimensões de inclusão, contribuição e orientação nas relações entre o cidadão e o Estado. Desse modo, a principal proposta deste estudo é contextualizar os mecanismos de representação e participação em um quadro institucional mais complexo. Soma-se a isso o fato de que o debate sobre representação e participação no âmbito das instituições políticas tende a ignorar a influência da cultura política, sendo que o estudo somente fundamentado nas instituições formais não possibilita explicar o comportamento dos diversos atores políticos nem o desempenho das instituições
Fundamentos y tensiones del sistema político moderno - Comentario a la obra de David Easton, Esquema para el análisis político
Authors: San Román Pablo De
Published: June 2017

El presente trabajo profundiza sobre la teoría política de David Easton y la incidencia que sus ideas tuvieron para la comprensión del sistema político y de las relaciones sociales en la época actual. Indaga sobre el concepto de “asignación autoritaria de valor” y la construcción de un ideario que explica el orden político como persistencia de la autoridad. Analiza las particularidades de este sistema y las formas que configuran y justifican las relaciones de jerarquía en su interior. Enfatiza sobre el valor del sistema político como instancia de resolución de conflictos originados en la distribución de unos bienes escasos, colectivamente valorados. De imposiciones distributivas cuyos efectos, modificando el esquema de relaciones vigentes, son globalmente aceptados. Las preguntas que formula este trabajo son: ¿qué condiciones posibilitan esta aceptación?; ¿cómo administra el sistema político la imposición de costos?, ¿qué situaciones (tensiones) suponen un desafío para su autoridad?; ¿cómo pueden estas tensiones invalidar la legitimidad del sistema? El trabajo contiene una sección metodológica que explica la aportación de Easton a la teoría política y social. A la construcción de un “esquema narrativo” que analiza la trascendencia de los comportamientos y estímulos que impactan significativamente en el sistema político. Estas consideraciones corresponden a la primera parte de la obra Esquema para el análisis político, tomada como referencia para la realización de este trabajo
Lutas contra o Um: notas do diálogo entre uma antropologia e um Marx contra o Estado
Authors: Tible Jean
Published: June 2017

Este artigo propõe um diálogo entre duas abordagens; de Marx, por um lado;da antropologia de Clastres e Viveiros de Castro, por outro. Trata -se de trocas acerca do Estado a partir das respectivas concepções de extinção e recusa deste. Inicia-se com uma apresentação e justificativa desse diálogo, além de explanar também acerca de que Marx se está falando. Após colocar de modo inicial ambos os conceitos-chave e seus elos, tal encontro ganha outros desdobramentos, graças aos Mil Platôs de Deleuze e Guattari. Enfim, a análise de certas lutas, antigas e contemporâneas, que ambas as perspectivas trabalham do ponto de vista teórico, permite aprofundar tal propost
Democracia e república: o dissenso sobre a liberdade e as linguagens modernas da política
Authors: Moreira Marcelo Sevaybricker
Published: June 2017

O presente trabalho discorre sobre a relação entre democracia e república. A análise inicia-se com o debate sobre conceito de liberdade no fim do século XX, caracterizado pelo avanço conservador do liberalismo e, como reação a ele, pela recuperação da tradição política do republicanismo. Distante de ser uma mera querela entre eruditos, a disputa entre essas linguagens fundantes da era moderna indica e constituiu um fator do debate em que se definem as funções do Estado e da democracia. A concepção de liberdade dos chamados neorrepublicanos, todos antagonistas, em maior ou menor grau, do liberalismo e proponentes de uma visão alternativa da liberdade é, então, avaliada. Embora o neorrepublicanismo não apresente uma concepção acabada de democracia, ele permite formular uma visão integradora dos seus principais problemas, tendo como norte a eliminação de todos os obstáculos à liberdade
Aspectos da governança local: inserção internacional das cidades através de redes de cidades
Authors: Vital Graziela C.
Published: June 2017

Os efeitos dos processos da globalização ocorridos nas últimas décadas impulsionaram o debate acerca do papel das cidades em um contexto de aprofundamento da competição por recursos, acesso a investimentos estrangeiros, tecnologia, entre outros aspectos. Destaca-se neste debate a intensificação da inserção internacional das cidades como estratégia de criação de novos padrões de governança local. Este artigo argumentará que um dos mecanismos de inserção internacional é a formação de redes de cidades, que despontam como instrumentos de organização para promoção da integração e melhoria das políticas públicas das cidades, através do desenvolvimento de acordos e programas. Neste contexto, o artigo apresentará a Rede de Mercocidades em um estudo de caso
Political Deliberation & the Adversarial Principle
Authors: Manin Bernard
Published: June 2017

Retrieving an insight dating back to antiquity, this essay argues that the confrontation of opposing views and arguments is desirable in political deliberation. But freedom of speech and diversity among deliberators do not suffice to secure that outcome. Therefore we should actively facilitate and encourage the presentation of contrary opinions during deliberation. Such confrontation is our best means of improving the quality of collective decisions. It also counteracts the pernicious fragmentation of the public sphere. It facilitates the comprehension of choices. Lastly, arguing for and against a given decision treats the minority with respect. This essay proposes practical ways of promoting adversarial deliberation, in particular the organization of debates disconnected from electoral competition.
Deliberative Democracy as Open, Not (Just) Representative Democracy
Authors: Landemore Hélène
Published: June 2017

Deliberative democracy is at risk of becoming collateral damage of the current crisis of representative democracy. If deliberative democracy is necessarily representative and if representation betrays the true meaning of democracy as rule of, by, and for the people, then how can deliberative democracy retain any validity as a theory of political legitimacy? Any tight connection between deliberative democracy and representative democracy thus risks making deliberative democracy obsolete: a dated paradigm fit for a precrisis order, but maladjusted to the world of Occupy, the Pirate Party, the Zapatistas, and other antirepresentative movements. This essay argues that the problem comes from a particular and historically situated understanding of representative democracy as rule by elected elites. I argue that in order to retain its normative appeal and political relevance, deliberative democracy should dissociate itself from representative democracy thus understood and reinvent itself as the core of a more truly democratic paradigm, which I call “open democracy.” In open democracy, popular rule means the mediated but real exercise of power by ordinary citizens. This new paradigm privileges nonelectoral forms of representation and in it, power is meant to remain constantly inclusive of and accessible–in other words open–to ordinary citizens.
Deliberative Citizens, (Non)Deliberative Politicians: A Rejoinder
Authors: Bächtiger André , Beste Simon
Published: June 2017

Are citizens or politicians (more) capable of deliberation, and when should they be willing to do so? In this essay, we first show that both politicians and citizens have the capacity to deliberate when institutions are appropriate. Yet high-quality deliberation sometimes collides with democratic principles and ideals. Therefore, we employ a “need-oriented” perspective, asking when and where citizens and the political workings of democracy need high-quality deliberation and when and where this is less the case. On this account, we propose a number of institutional interventions and reforms that may help boost deliberation in ways that both exploit its unique epistemic and ethical potential while simultaneously making it compatible with democratic principles and ideals.