bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Investigation on Suppressing High Frequency Self-Excited Noises of Armature Assembly in a Torque Motor Using Ferrofluid
Authors: Han Hasiaoqier , Li Songjing , Guo Liang , Wu Qingwen
Published: May 2017

Attempting to suppress high frequency self-excited noises of armature assembly, ferrofluid is added to the working clearances of torque motor. The mathematical model of resistance force of ferrofluid applied to armature is derived theoretically from parallel plate squeeze flow theory and ferrofluid constitutive model in which shear thickening and shear thinning effects are taken into account. Then the equivalent physical model of ferrofluid is established according to the resistance force, and, through analysis, it can be further simplified as viscous damping model. Finally, the suppressing effect introduced by ferrofluid on high frequency noises of armature assembly is verified by comparing the results of numerical simulation with ferrofluid and that without ferrofluid.
Genetic Types and Source of the Upper Paleozoic Tight Gas in the Hangjinqi Area, Northern Ordos Basin, China
Authors: Wu Xiaoqi , Ni Chunhua , Liu Quanyou , Liu Guangxiang , Zhu Jianhui , Chen Yingbin
Published: May 2017

The molecular and stable isotopic compositions of the Upper Paleozoic tight gas in the Hangjinqi area in northern Ordos Basin were investigated to study the geochemical characteristics. The tight gas is mainly wet with the dryness coefficient (C1/C1–5) of 0.853–0.951, andδ13C1andδ2H-C1values are ranging from-36.2‰to-32.0‰and from-199‰to-174‰, respectively, with generally positive carbon and hydrogen isotopic series. Identification of gas origin indicates that tight gas is mainly coal-type gas, and it has been affected by mixing of oil-type gas in the wells from the Shilijiahan and Gongkahan zones adjacent to the Wulanjilinmiao and Borjianghaizi faults. Gas-source correlation indicates that coal-type gas in the Shiguhao zone displays distal-source accumulation. It was mainly derived from the coal-measure source rocks in the Upper Carboniferous Taiyuan Formation (C3t) and Lower Permian Shanxi Formation (P1s), probably with a minor contribution from P1s coal measures from in situ Shiguhao zone. Natural gas in the Shilijiahan and Gongkahan zones mainly displays near-source accumulation. The coal-type gas component was derived from in situ C3t-P1s source rocks, whereas the oil-type gas component might be derived from the carbonate rocks in the Lower Ordovician Majiagou Formation (O1m).
Antiviral Activity of Fridericia formosa (Bureau) L. G. Lohmann (Bignoniaceae) Extracts and Constituents
Authors: Brandão Geraldo Célio , Kroon Erna G. , Souza Filho José D. , Oliveira Alaíde Braga
Published: May 2017

A phytochemical study of Fridericia formosa (Bignoniaceae) ethanol extracts of leaves, stems, and fruits was guided by in vitro assays against vaccinia virus Western Reserve (VACV-WR), human herpes virus 1 (HSV-1), murine encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV), and dengue virus type 2 (DENV-2) by the MTT method. All the ethanol extracts were active against DENV-2, HSV-1, and VACV-WR with best results for the fruits extract against DENV-2 (SI > 38.2). For VACV-WR and HSV-1, EC50 values > 200 μg mL−1 were determined, while no inhibition of the cytopathic effect was observed with EMCV. Five compounds were isolated and identified as the C-glucosylxanthones mangiferin (1), 2′-O-trans-caffeoylmangiferin (2), 2′-O-trans-coumaroylmangiferin (3), 2′-O-trans-cinnamoylmangiferin (5), and the flavonoid chrysin (4). The most active compound was 2′-O-trans-coumaroylmangiferin (3) with SI > 121.9 against DENV-2 and 108.7 for HSV-1. These results indicate that mangiferin cinnamoyl esters might be potential antiviral drugs.
Disability in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Correlations with Quality of Life and Patient’s Characteristics
Authors: Argyriou Konstantinos , Kapsoritakis Andreas , Oikonomou Konstantinos , Manolakis Anastassios , Tsakiridou Eirini , Potamianos Spyridon
Published: May 2017

Background. Inflammatory bowel diseases may cause significant disability. However, little is known regarding the life domains where patients encounter most limitations. Objectives. To assess patients’ overall disability and determine the life domains where most restrictions were applied. Secondarily, we sought for possible relationships among disability, quality of life (HRQoL), and population characteristics. Method. The study lasted for two years (2013–2015) and included 200 patients [52%  ulcerative  colitis  (UC)] from a referral centre. Disability was evaluated using the 36-item version of WHODAS 2.0 questionnaire. The influence of population characteristics on overall disability was assessed with linear regression. Results. Crohn’s disease (CD) patients showed greater overall disability compared to UC (19.22 versus 15.01, p=0.001), with higher scores in the domains of relationships, life activities, and participation. Disability was negatively associated with HRQoL (p<0.001). Long activity, extensive disease, rural residence, and employment independently influenced the overall disability in both groups. Additionally, significant influence was recorded for lower education in the UC and for operation and celibacy in the CD group. Conclusions. CD patients were facing more limitations compared to those with UC, especially in the domains of relationships, activities, and participation. Other than clinical factors, sociodemographic characteristics were also associated with increased disability.
Study on the High Temperature Friction and Wear Behaviors of Cu-Based Friction Pairs in Wet Clutches by Pin-on-Disc Tests
Authors: Zhao Er-Hui , Ma Biao , Li He-Yan
Published: May 2017

This work is devoted to the study of the high temperature friction and wear behaviors of Cu-based friction pairs in wet clutches under different temperatures, rotation speeds, and loads. Pin-on-disc tests are carried out on the UMT-3. The friction coefficient, wear factor, and high temperature wear mechanism are primarily analyzed. The results show that as the temperature rises from 120°C to 420°C, the friction coefficient increases from 0.28 to 0.35 at first and then decreases to 0.30, when the vibration of friction coefficient is significantly identified. Meanwhile, the wear factor grows gradually from K=7.9×10-8 g/Nm to K=41.8×10-8 g/Nm at first and then grows sharply to K=112.2×10-8 g/Nm. The main wear mechanisms are abrasive wear and ploughing wear when the temperature is below 345°C, and the wear seriously deteriorates when the temperature exceeds 345°C, when the wear mechanism changes to adhesive wear and delamination wear.
Effectiveness of Different Preventive Programs in Cariogram Parameters of Young Adults at High Caries Risk
Authors: Karabekiroğlu Said , Ünlü Nimet
Published: May 2017

Objective. To evaluate the effectiveness of different preventive programs in young adults at high caries risk using Cariogram software. Methods. Sixty-six young adults with high caries risk were evaluated. Dental caries risk for all subjects was determined according to WHO criteria. Subjects were divided into three different preventive groups (control: OH, fluoride varnish: FV, and chlorhexidine varnish: CV). They were followed for 12 weeks (baseline: T0, 1 week: T1, 4 weeks: T2, and 12 weeks: T3). Plaque index, diet frequency, and salivary chairside tests (to record the flow rate, buffer capacity, and mutans streptococci and lactobacillus counts) were performed at each visit. Based on these data, ten caries-related variables were collected and inserted into the Cariogram software to calculate the predicted chance of avoiding caries for each subject. Results. Significant changes were obtained about the Cariogram parameters (diet, bacteria, susceptibility, circumstances, and Cariogram risk group). No significant differences were found between the three methods regarding mean Cariogram scores after 3 months (p>0.05). Conclusions. The regular and effective short-term (three months) use of 1450 ppm fluoridated toothpaste, one visit application of fluoride, and chlorhexidine varnishes were effective for reducing caries risk in young adults, which can be clearly demonstrated using Cariogram software.
Serum Dried Samples to Detect Dengue Antibodies: A Field Study
Authors: Maldonado-Rodríguez Angelica , Rojas-Montes Othon , Vazquez-Rosales Guillermo , Chavez-Negrete Adolfo , Rojas-Uribe Magdalena , Posadas-Mondragon Araceli , Aguilar-Faisal Leopoldo , Cevallos Ana Maria , Xoconostle-Cazares Beatriz , Lira Rosalia
Published: May 2017

Background. Dried blood and serum samples are useful resources for detecting antiviral antibodies. The conditions for elution of the sample need to be optimized for each disease. Dengue is a widespread disease in Mexico which requires continuous surveillance. In this study, we standardized and validated a protocol for the specific detection of dengue antibodies from dried serum spots (DSSs).Methods. Paired serum and DSS samples from 66 suspected cases of dengue were collected in a clinic in Veracruz, Mexico. Samples were sent to our laboratory, where the conditions for optimal elution of DSSs were established. The presence of anti-dengue antibodies was determined in the paired samples.Results. DSS elution conditions were standardized as follows: 1 h at 4°C in 200 µl of DNase-, RNase-, and protease-free PBS (1x). The optimal volume of DSS eluate to be used in the IgG assay was 40 µl. Sensitivity of 94%, specificity of 93.3%, and kappa concordance of 0.87 were obtained when comparing the antidengue reactivity between DSSs and serum samples.Conclusion. DSS samples are useful for detecting anti-dengue IgG antibodies in the field.
Long Noncoding RNAs as Biomarkers in Cancer
Authors: Bolha Luka , Ravnik-Glavač Metka , Glavač Damjan
Published: May 2017

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a relatively well-characterized class of noncoding RNA (ncRNA) molecules, involved in the regulation of various cell processes, including transcription, intracellular trafficking, and chromosome remodeling. Their deregulation has been associated with the development and progression of various cancer types, the fact which makes them suitable as biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and prognosis. In recent years, detection of cancer-associated lncRNAs in body fluids of cancer patients has proven itself as an especially valuable method to effectively diagnose cancer. Cancer diagnosis and prognosis employing circulating lncRNAs are preferential when compared to classical biopsies of tumor tissues, especially due to their noninvasiveness, and have great potential for routine usage in clinical practice. Thus, this review focuses on summarizing the perspectives of lncRNAs as biomarkers in cancer, based on evaluating their expression profiles determined in body fluids of cancer patients.
Exercise Metabolism in Nonobese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Following the Acute Restoration of Normoglycaemia
Authors: Gaffney Christopher J. , Mansell Peter , Stephens Francis B. , Macdonald Ian A. , Tsintzas Kostas
Published: May 2017

This study investigated how acute restoration of normoglycaemia affected energy metabolism during exercise in nonobese patients with type 2 diabetes. Six subjects (mean ± SEM) aged 56.2 ± 2.7 years, with a BMI of 24.5 ± 1.5 kg/m2and a VO2 peakof 28.7 ml/kg/min, attended the lab on two randomised occasions for a four-hour resting infusion of insulin or saline, followed by 30 minutes cycling at 50% VO2 peak. During the 4 h resting infusion, there was a greater (P<0.0001) reduction in blood glucose in insulin treatment (INS) (from 11.2 ± 0.6 to 5.6 ± 0.1 mmol/l) than in saline treatment/control (CON) (from 11.5 ± 0.7 to 8.5 ± 0.6 mmol/l). This was associated with a lower (P<0.05) resting metabolic rate in INS (3.87 ± 0.17) than in CON (4.39 ± 0.30 kJ/min). During subsequent exercise, blood glucose increased significantly in INS from 5.6 ± 0.1 at 0 min to 6.3 ± 0.3 mmol/l at 30 min (P<0.01), which was accompanied by a lower blood lactate response (P<0.05). Oxygen uptake, rates of substrate utilization, heart rate, and ratings of perceived exertion were not different between trials. Insulin-induced normoglycaemia increased blood glucose during subsequent exercise without altering overall substrate utilization.
Mental and Reproductive Health Correlates of Academic Performance among Debre Berhan University Female Students, Ethiopia: The Case of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
Authors: Alemu Sisay Mulugeta , Habtewold Tesfa Dejenie , Haile Yohannes Gebreegziabhere
Published: May 2017

Background. Globally 3 to 8% of reproductive age women are suffering from premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Several mental and reproductive health-related factors cause low academic achievement during university education. However, limited data exist in Ethiopia. The aim of the study was to investigate mental and reproductive health correlates of academic performance.Methods. Institution based cross-sectional study was conducted with 667 Debre Berhan University female students from April to June 2015. Academic performance was the outcome variable. Mental and reproductive health characteristics were explanatory variables. Two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test of association was applied to examine group difference in academic performance.Result. Among 529 students who participated, 49.3% reported mild premenstrual syndrome (PMS), 36.9% reported moderate/severe PMS, and 13.8% fulfilled PMDD diagnostic criteria. The ANOVA test of association revealed that there was no significant difference in academic performance between students with different level of PMS experience (F-statistic = 0.08,pvalue = 0.93). Nevertheless, there was a significant difference in academic performance between students with different length of menses (F-statistic = 5.15,pvalue = 0.006).Conclusion. There was no significant association between PMS experience and academic performance, but on the other hand, the length of menses significantly associated with academic performance.
Alterungs- und Regenerationsprozesse der Lunge: Salutogenese sollte im Vordergrund stehen
Authors: Frohnhofen Helmut
Published: May 2017

Der natürliche Alterungsprozess der Lunge ist durch molekulare Veränderungen im Verlauf der Entwicklung und der Ausreifung sowie des Abbaus im höheren Alter gekennzeichnet. Sowohl auf zellulärer als auch auf organweiter Ebene erreichen degenerative Veränderungen, die zur natürlichen Alterung gehören (kürzere Telomere, erhöhte Expression zellulärer Seneszenzmarker, erhöhte DNA-Schädigung, oxidativer Stress und Apoptose, begleitet durch verminderte Elastizität), beim alternden Menschen ein pathologisches Ausmaß in Form einer chronischen Atemwegserkrankung. Das Alter korreliert eng mit der Entwicklung und dem Auftreten von chronischen Atemwegserkrankungen einschließlich Krebs und idiopathischer Lungenfibrose, am stärksten jedoch mit der Entwicklung von chronisch-obstruktiver Lungenerkrankung. Altersbedingte pulmonale Insuffizienz ist auf den Verlust der Regenerationsfähigkeit der Lungenstammzellen innerhalb der distinkten Stammzellnischen in den verschiedenen Lungenkompartimenten zurückzuführen. Das derzeitige Wissen über die Identität und die Funktion dieser Stammzell-Kompartimente beruht vorwiegend auf einer Reihe transgener und spontan mutierter Mausmodelle, die besonders schnell altern oder verwendet wurden, um die Regeneration nach Verletzungen im Kontext der natürlichen oder beschleunigten Alterung zu untersuchen. Während viele Arbeiten sich mit dem Versagen von epithelialen Zellpopulationen als Schlüsselkomponente des Alterungsprozesses beschäftigt haben, belegen weitere Studien, dass die Alterung als globales Phänomen in der Lunge auch Auswirkungen auf die lokalen Endothel-, Mesenchym- und Immunzellpopulationen hat. In dieser Übersichtsarbeit untersuchen wir die Alterung als Prozess, der von spezifischen Veränderungen der molekularen Pfade in mehreren Lungenzellpopulationen abhängig ist.
Schnelles Ansprechen auf hochdosiertes pulsatiles Erlotinib bei Afatinib-refraktärer leptomeningealer Karzinomatose aufgrund eines Adenokarzinoms der Lunge: ein Fallbericht
Authors: Fan Frank S.
Published: May 2017

Eine leptomeningeale Karzinomatose entwickelte sich bei einer Patientin höheren Alters, die wegen eines nicht-kleinzelligen Bronchialkarzinoms mit Tyrosinkinasehemmer-sensitiver Mutation des epidermalen Wachstumsfaktor-Rezeptor-Gens mit Afatinib in Standarddosierung behandelt wurde; die extrakraniellen Läsionen waren durch diese Behandlung unter Kontrolle. Nach Umstellung auf hochdosiertes pulsatiles Erlotinib verbesserte sich ihr Zustand innerhalb kürzester Zeit in erheblichem Ausmaß. Es besteht Anlass zu der Vermutung, dass die Afatinib-Konzentration im Liquor cerebrospinalis unzureichend war, daher ist die Prüfung von hochdosiertem Afatinib bei leptomeningealer Karzinomatose im Rahmen klinischer Studien angezeigt. Übersetzung aus Case Rep Oncol 2016;9:537-542 (DOI: 10.1159/000449405)
Nutzen der Positivdrucktherapie für OSA-Patienten: Viele Fragen bleiben offen
Authors: Dohrn Wiebke
Published: May 2017

Hintergrund: Schlafbezogene Atmungsstörungen können zu kardiovaskulären (CV) Erkrankungen beitragen. Für die Behandlung der obstruktiven Schlafapnoe (OSA) wurde ein neuartiger und differenzierter Ansatz zur Analyse der nächtlich photoplethysmographisch aufgezeichneten Pulswellen evaluiert, der die Risikobewertung und die Messung verschiedener Pulswellencharakteristika umfasst. Ziele: Zweck dieser Studie war es, zu untersuchen, ob und welche der differenzierten Pulswellencharakteristika von der OSA-Behandlung mit positivem Atemwegsdruck (PAP) beeinflusst werden könnten. Methoden: Die Studie umfasste zwei Protokolle. In der Fall-Kontroll-Studie (Gruppe A) wurden von Pulswellen abgeleitete CV-Risikoindizes, die während der PAP-Therapie aufgezeichnet wurden, mit denen von Patienten mit unbehandelter OSA verglichen, die nach Alter, Body-Mass-Index und CV-Risikoklassen parallelisiert waren (n = 67/67). In der prospektiven PAP-Behandlungsstudie (Gruppe B) nahmen 17 unselektierte Patienten an Schlaftests über die ganze Nacht teil und wurden bei Behandlungsbeginn und nach 23 ± 19 Behandlungswochen analysiert. Ergebnisse: Bei den unbehandelten OSA-Patienten (Gruppe A) war die hypoxische Belastung über Nacht erhöht (SpO2-Index 38,7 ± 17,5 vs. 24,0 ± 11,1, p <0,001) und der Pulswellendämpfungsindex (PWA-I) niedriger (29,4 ± 9,2 vs. 33,5 ± 11,8, p=0,022) als bei den behandelten Patienten. In Gruppe B reduzierte die PAP-Therapie die hypoxische Belastung und erhöhte den PWA-I signifikant. Der kombinierte CV-Risikoindex war geringfügig, jedoch nicht signifikant reduziert. Schlussfolgerungen: Die PAP-Therapie modifizierte die hypoxische Belastung und die von Pulswellen abgeleiteten Marker. Der PWA-I - der mit dem sympathischen Gefäßtonus assoziiert ist - wurde am stärksten durch PAP modifiziert. Dieser neuartige Ansatz für Marker der CV-Funktion sollte in prospektiven Studien weiter evaluiert werden.
Embryonic Stem Cells for Tissue Biocompatibility, Angiogenesis, and Inflammation Testing
Authors: Sharifpanah Fatemeh , Reinhardt Matthias , Schönleben Johanna , Meyer Claudia , Richter Madeleine , Schnabelrauch Matthias , Rode Claudia , Wartenberg Annika , Bekhite Mohamed , Sauer Heinrich , Wartenberg Maria
Published: May 2017

Aim: To introduce embryoid bodies derived from mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells, which differentiate blood vessel-like structures and leukocytes, as a novel in vitro model system for biocompatibility, inflammation, and angiogenesis studies. Methodology/Results: Punched spherical discs of bioabsorbable polymers (ε-caprolactone and L-lactide in different compositions) with a diameter of 2 mm and a thickness of 0.2 mm were inoculated with embryoid bodies for cocultivation. As reference material for biocompatible, nonbioabsorbable, and bioincompatible materials, polymer punched discs of petriPERM (PP) membrane (polytetrafluoroethylene) as well as polyvinylchloride (PVC) were used. Tissue outgrowth on the polymer discs decreased and cell toxicity increased upon confrontation on bioabsorbable biomaterials and PVC. Bioabsorbable polymers as well as PVC decreased the branching points and total tube length of CD31-positive vascular structures in embryoid bodies. With the exception of PP, all applied materials increased the differentiation of CD68-positive macrophages and the generation of reactive oxygen species, which is indicative of proinflammatory processes upon contact of tissue with biomaterials. Consequently, cocultivation with polymers increased secretion of the cytokines interleukin-6, monocyte chemotactic protein-1, and tumor necrosis factor-α. Conclusion: Three-dimensional tissues cultivated from ES cells are well-suited for testing the biocompatibility, the vascular response, and the inflammatory reaction towards bioabsorbable and nonbioabsorbable polymers.
Vertebral Artery Dissection in a Bouncy Castle Injury: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Ripa Valeria , Urakov Timur M. , Jernigan Sarah C.
Published: May 2017

There is an increased rate of injuries associated with activities on bouncy castles. The purpose of this article was to describe the case of a 6-year-old boy who sustained a brain infarct as a consequence of a left posterior inferior cerebellar artery dissection due to improper landing in a bouncy castle and who required a suboccipital craniotomy. The second goal was to outline the literature review regarding cervical trauma related to trampoline or bouncy castle accidents in pediatric populations. Based on the described case and reviewed studies, bouncy castle or any other activity resulting in hyperflexion or hyperextension of the neck should be carefully evaluated for cervical spine fractures and vascular injuries.
Fine-Needle Aspiration of Metastatic Central Type Primitive Neuroectodermal Tumors in Patients with a Germ Cell Tumor
Authors: Chen Shaoxiong , Idrees Muhammad , Lin Jingmei , Wu Howard H.
Published: May 2017

Objective: Central type primitive neuroectodermal tumors (PNET) are some of the most frequent somatic type tumors derived from germ cell tumors and can metastasize. We studied the cytomorphological features of metastatic central type PNET by fine-needle aspiration (FNA). Materials and Methods: A computerized search of our laboratory information system was performed for the 9-year period from 2005 through 2014 to identify all cytology cases in which a diagnosis of metastatic central type PNET had been rendered. A total of 5 FNA cases were collected and direct smears were reexamined. Results: All patients had a history of testicular or ovarian germ cell tumors. Direct smears displayed single and clusters of atypical round to oval cells with scant to moderate cytoplasm. Abundant naked nuclei were present in Diff-Quik-stained smears with mild to marked crushed artifacts and nuclear molding. Tumor cells showed fine granular chromatin, nuclear size variation (up to 1:3), and one or more small nucleoli. Pseudorosettes (Homer Wright-like rosette) were noticed in 1 case. Tumor cells were commonly positive for synaptophysin. Conclusion: Metastatic PNET can be reliably diagnosed by FNA. Differential diagnoses include Ewing sarcoma/peripheral PNET, alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, neuroblastoma, etc. It is important to be familiar with this entity to avoid diagnostic pitfalls.
Exposure to Cadmium Impairs Sperm Functions by Reducing CatSper in Mice
Authors: Wang Hua-Feng , Chang Meng , Peng Ting-Ting , Yang Yi , Li Na , Luo Tao , Cheng Yi-Min , Zhou Meng-Zhi , Zeng Xu-Hui , Zheng Li-Ping
Published: May 2017

Background: Cadmium (Cd), a common environmental heavy metal and endocrine disruptor, is known to exert toxic effects on the testes. However, the mechanisms accounting for its toxicity in mature spermatozoa remain unclear. Methods: Adult male C57BL/6 mice were orally administered with CdCl2 for 5 weeks at 3 mg·kg-1·day-1. Additionally, mouse spermatozoa were incubated in vitro with different doses of CdCl2 (0, 10, 50, 250 µM). Several sperm functions including the sperm motility, viability and acrosome reaction (AR) ratio were then examined. Furthermore, the current and expression levels of both the sperm-specific Ca2+ channel (CatSper) and the sperm-specific K+ channel (KSper) were evaluated by patch-clamping and western blotting, respectively. Results: Our data showed that the motility, viability and AR of sperm exposed to cadmium significantly decreased in vivo and in vitro. Interestingly, these changes were correlated with changes in CatSper but not KSper. Conclusion: The findings indicate sperm dysfunction during both chronic and acute cadmium exposure as well as a specific role for CatSper in the reproductive toxicity of cadmium.
Cytosolic Cl- Affects the Anticancer Activity of Paclitaxel in the Gastric Cancer Cell Line, MKN28 Cell
Authors: Tanaka Sachie , Miyazaki Hiroaki , Shiozaki Atsushi , Ichikawa Daisuke , Otsuji Eigo , Marunaka Yoshinori
Published: May 2017

Background/Aims: Our previous study revealed that cytosolic Cl- affected neurite elongation promoted via assembly of microtubule in rat pheochromocytoma PC12D cells and Cl-–induced blockade of intrinsic GTPase enhanced tubulin polymerization in vitro. Paclitaxel (PTX) is a microtubule-targeted chemotherapeutic drug and stabilizes microtubules resulting in mainly blockade of mitosis at the metaphase-anaphase transition and induction of apoptosis. In the present study, we tried to clarify whether the cytosolic Cl- affected PTX ability to inhibit cell growth in the gastric cancer cell line, MKN28. Methods: To clarify the cytosolic Cl- action on PTX-induced cell death and metaphase-anaphase transition in the gastric cancer cell line, MKN28 cell, and PTX-induced tubulin polymerization, we performed cell proliferation assay, cytosolic Cl- concentration measurement, immunofluorescence microscopy, and in vitro tubulin polymerization assay. Results: The decline of cytosolic Cl- weakened the cytotoxic effect of PTX on cell proliferation of MKN28 cells, which could pass through the metaphase-anaphase transition. Moreover, in vitro PTX-induced tubulin polymerization was diminished under the low Cl- condition. Conclusions: Our results strongly suggest that the upregulation of cytosolic Cl- concentration would enhance the antitumor effect of PTX, and that the cytosolic Cl- would be one of the key targets for anti-cancer therapy.
Everolimus in Neuroendocrine Tumors of the Gastrointestinal Tract and Unknown Primary
Authors: Singh Simron , Carnaghi Carlo , Buzzoni Roberto , Pommier Rodney F. , Raderer Markus , Tomasek Jiri , Lahner Harald , Valle Juan W. , Voi Maurizio , Bubuteishvili-Pacaud Lida , Lincy Jeremie , Wolin Edward , Okita Natsuko , Libutti Steven K. , Oh Do-Youn , Kulke Matthew , Strosberg Jonathan , Yao James C. , Pavel Marianne E. , Fazio Nicola ,   for the RAD001 in Advanced Neuroendocrine Tumors, Fourth Trial (RADIANT-4) Study Group
Published: May 2017

Purpose: The RADIANT-4 randomized phase 3 study demonstrated significant prolongation of median progression-free survival (PFS) with everolimus compared to placebo (11.0 [95% CI 9.2-13.3] vs. 3.9 [95% CI 3.6-7.4] months) in patients with advanced, progressive, nonfunctional gastrointestinal (GI) and lung neuroendocrine tumors (NET). This analysis specifically evaluated NET patients with GI and unknown primary origin. Methods: Patients in the RADIANT-4 trial were randomized 2:1 to everolimus 10 mg/day or placebo. The effect of everolimus on PFS was evaluated in patients with NET of the GI tract or unknown primary site. Results: Of the 302 patients enrolled, 175 had GI NET (everolimus, 118; placebo, 57) and 36 had unknown primary (everolimus, 23; placebo, 13). In the GI subset, the median PFS by central review was 13.1 months (95% CI 9.2-17.3) in the everolimus arm versus 5.4 months (95% CI 3.6-9.3) in the placebo arm; the hazard ratio (HR) was 0.56 (95% CI 0.37-0.84). In the unknown primary patients, the median PFS was 13.6 months (95% CI 4.1-not evaluable) for everolimus versus 7.5 months (95% CI 1.9-18.5) for placebo; the HR was 0.60 (95% CI 0.24-1.51). Everolimus efficacy was also demonstrated in both midgut and non-midgut populations; a 40-46% reduction in the risk of progression or death was reported for patients in the combined GI and unknown primary subgroup. Everolimus had a benefit regardless of prior somatostatin analog therapy. Conclusions: Everolimus showed a clinically meaningful PFS benefit in patients with advanced progressive nonfunctional NET of GI and unknown primary, consistent with the overall RADIANT-4 results, providing an effective new standard treatment option in this patient population and filling an unmet treatment need for these patients.
Fervor e melancolia: A experiência urbana em Jorge Luis Borges
Authors: Leme Patrícia
Published: May 2017

Este trabalho propõe uma interpretação da experiência urbana em Fervor de Buenos Aires, primeiro livro de Jorge Luis Borges, a ser modulada pela poética de Charles Baudelaire. A relação será estabelecida por meio da temporalidade mobilizada nos poemas eleitos, aspecto poético que constitui configurações espaciais específicas: enquanto a Paris de Baudelaire não se fixa, a Buenos Aires borgeana permanece congelada no tempo, diferença que coloca em questão as abordagens poéticas do tema da cidade na modernidade literária.
Gravity's Rainbow, de Thomas Pynchon: A paranoia como "estilo de conexao"
Authors: Encinas Luis Fernando Catelan
Published: May 2017

O objeto deste pequeno artigo é o problema da paranoia no livro de Pynchon, entendida não como desordem mental, mas como uma visão “sistemática” da realidade, onde as tramas estão inseridas em tramas ainda maiores, que, por sua vez, estão inseridas no conjunto ainda maior de suas quatro partes. É o que se poderia chamar de “estilo de conexão”, em que tudo está ligado, e cujo modelo, como veremos, é a paranoia.
Três Poemas
Authors: Lucas Leda Maria
Published: May 2017

Três Poemas
A filosofia do mictório – considerações sobre o romance O Casamento (1967), de Nelson Rodrigues
Authors: Lopes João Gabriel Mostazo
Published: May 2017

Este ensaio procura traçar, através da análise do romance O Casamento (1967), de Nelson Rodrigues, algumas linhas de força para pensar a existência de diferentes projetos de modernidade na literatura brasileira da primeira metade do século XX. A análise se concentra sobretudo no romance de Nelson Rodrigues, e aposta na obra do autor como representativa de um projeto distinto, e mesmo oposto, à tradição inaugurada sobretudo pelo Modernismo paulista. Para isso, procuramos ler o romance e as questões que ele levanta em comparação com o Manifesto Antropófago (1928) de Oswald de Andrade, lançando mão ainda, quando é conveniente à ampliação da discussão, de um atravessamento por conceitos da psicanálise lacaniana para pensar não apenas os dois autores em questão, mas a corrente de influências que as suas obras tiveram ao longo do século passado sobre a literatura e a cultura brasileiras.
Um Rumor no Quarto ao Lado: subjetividade e pós-colonialismo em “Dancing Girls” e “The Man from Mars” de Margaret Atwood.
Authors: Moyano Thiago M.
Published: May 2017

Este trabalho tem por objetivo estabelecer uma discussão a partir de dois contos da coletânea Dancing Girls and Other Stories (1977) de Margaret Atwood: “The Man from Mars” e “Dancing Girls”. Levando-se em consideração a crescente relevância dos estudos ligados a este gênero literário, bem como à pertinência da teoria pós-colonial e de gênero, esta investigação mostrará como a autora se utiliza desta estrutura na elaboração de uma crítica a partir da constituição de subjetividades subalternas, as quais estão inseridas em um ambiente já demarcado por uma consciência do Outro, fenômeno que as leva a um constante exercício de auto-correção, reforçando aquilo que pretensamente evitam. Trabalhos de Julio Cortázar, Ricardo Piglia, Gayatri Spivak e Edward Said responderão teoricamente a esta proposta.
Saying Goodbye to Family
Authors: Dickinson George E. , Hoffmann Heath C.
Published: May 2017

Many humans treat their companion animals as “fictive kin” and thus want them to be treated with dignity and respect in death and disposal. Limited research exists on how caretakers themselves experience the euthanasia of their companion animal, including how they handle the remains and honor their legacy. This research fills this void by reporting the results of a survey of 567 individuals. Euthanasia was typically performed in the veterinary clinic, with the client remaining 74% of the time. Ninety percent or more of the clients expressed satisfaction with how the veterinarian treated the companion animal and the client. The majority of companion animals were cremated and honored their companion animals in individualized and diverse ways (e.g., shrines, tattoos, and photographs).
Aggression towards unfamiliar intruders by male lizards Eurolophosaurus nanuzae depends on contestant’s body traits: a test of the dear enemy effect
Authors: Quintana Eduardo C. , Galdino Conrado A.B.
Published: May 2017

A reduction of territory owners’ aggression towards their neighbours in relation to the intrusion of strangers characterises the dear enemy phenomenon. Supposedly, the disparity in aggression levels of territory owners is due to a higher threat imposed by strangers compared to the threat imposed by neighbours. To evaluate the occurrence of the phenomenon in males of the small-sized lizard Eurolophosaurus nanuzae we performed a field manipulative study. We considered three models to run intrusions in males’ territories: neighbour, tailed stranger (unfamiliar) and tailless stranger intruders. Our results lend support to the presence of dear enemy for this species as residents acted more aggressively towards strangers than to neighbours. In addition, the information we provide supports the relative threat hypothesis as territory owners were more aggressive towards tailed stranger intruders than to tailless stranger intruders. In this sense, tail condition can represent a trait that signals the ‘resource holding power’ (RHP) of a lizard. Therefore, we show that beyond neighbourhood recognition, residents are able to evaluate the potential threat of stranger intruders in general, thereby extending the evolutionary gains of the dear enemy by saving energy even in the context they are expected to acts with higher costs.
The European Field of Government Debt in Times of Stability and in Times of Crisis
Authors: Preunkert Jenny
Published: May 2017

The aim of the article is to understand how the introduction of the euro changed the environment for government debt managers and therefore altered government debt management strategies. The argument of the article is that the common currency has led to the institutionalization of a transnational field. In this new European field, the strategies of its members are a treatment of both the common shared rules and the mutual awareness of each other and their role in the field. In times of stability, the European field pushed the competition among government debt managers and therefore resulted in converging tendencies in government debt management approaches without overcoming all differences. Contrary to this, during the crisis and therefore in times of an unstable environment, government debt management approaches became more divergent and more hierarchic.
The Impact of Secularity on Attitudes of Gender Equality: A Multi-Level Analysis of 49 Nations
Authors: Wernet Christine A.
Published: May 2017

This research uses a series of hierarchical linear regression models fitted to data from the 2014 World Values Survey (wvs) and national statistics for 49 countries to specify the relationship between variables at the macro, meso, and micro level with attitudes of gender equality. In addition to the development of an updated and more robust Gender Equality Scale, the findings show that economic development increases support for gender equality, in line with Inglehart’s postmaterialist hypothesis. A history of communist rule and income inequality also increase attitudes of gender equality. Secularity has the greatest explanatory power in the equation; the results show that being educated, female, and less religious significantly increases one’s likelihood to support gender equality.
Three Types of Asymmetry in the Muscovite Engagement with Print
Authors: Franklin Simon
Published: May 2017

Muscovite awareness and use of printed books both predated and extended beyond the scope of native Muscovite printing. The three types of “asymmetry” explored in this survey relate to the wider reception of print in Muscovy. The first and most widely noted is the chronological and cultural mismatch between the spread of print culture in Russia and in Western Europe. The second is the differential chronology and repertoire of local print production by comparison with the use of imported printed materials. The third – the main focus of the survey – is the phenomenon of “reverse technology transfer,” whereby West European printed materials were appropriated into manuscript culture in Muscovy. Examples are adduced from diverse and unrelated fields: medical knowledge, newspapers, and biblical illustration. Taken together, these patterns of asymmetry not only pose a challenge to “techno-determinist” approaches to the history of writing and print, but reflect a distinctive ecology of media, a distinctive set of cultural filters in the translation of print to Muscovy.
Ivan Fedorov’s Text of the Apostolos
Authors: Cleminson R.M.
Published: May 2017

The article considers the text of the Catholic Epistles in the four editions printed by Ivan Fedorov, i.e. the 1564 Apostolos, 1574 Apostolos, 1580 New Testament and Psalms, and the 1581 Ostroh Bible. The 1564 text follows the East Slavonic variant of the Fourth Redaction of the Apostolos, but with a number of revisions. Some of these are the result of linguistic updating, bringing the text into line with current norms of Russian Church Slavonic. Others represent readings from the First-Redaction text, particularly its commentated variant. Yet others have been introduced from the Vulgate or from one of the vernacular versions derived from it. This shows that some comparison was made with existing Slavonic and West European texts. There is no evidence that any Greek text was consulted. The 1574 text is almost exactly the same as that of 1564, but some further changes have been made to the texts of 1580 and 1581 (which are almost identical to each other). These are not numerous. In part they result from continued linguistic updating, and in part they restore some Fourth-Redaction readings, but in some cases the reason for them is unclear.
Something New about the 1564 Apostol from the Diaghilev-Lifar Collection
Authors: Bogatyrev Sergei
Published: May 2017

This note reveals new facts about the 1564 Apostol from the Diaghilev-Lifar Collection by examining some previously unknown notations in the book. In the middle of the seventeenth century a high-ranking hierarch, Metropolitan Kornilii of Kazan and Sviiazhsk, donated the book to a church in the Kazan district.
Assessing Individual Variation in Personality and Empathy Traits in Self-Reported Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response
Authors: Janik McErlean Agnieszka B. , Banissy Michael J.
Published: May 2017

Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) is a self-reported multi-sensory phenomenon described as a pleasant tingling sensation, triggered by certain auditory and visual stimuli, which typically originates at the back of the head and tends to spread throughout the whole body resulting in a relaxed and sedated state. Despite growing reports of ASMR there is a lack of scientific investigation of this intriguing phenomenon. This study is the first to examine whether self-reported ASMR is associated with individual differences in personality characteristics compared to general population. To do so we administered the Big Five Inventory (BFI) and the Inter-Personal Reactivity Index (IRI) to a group of individuals reporting to experience ASMR and a matched control group. Our findings showed that ASMR self-reporters scored higher on Openness to Experience and lower on Conscientiousness measures of BFI. They also showed greater scores on Empathic Concern and Fantasizing subscale of IRI. These findings are discussed in the context of the personality profile found in synaesthesia, which has been recently suggested to be more prevalent among people reporting ASMR experiences.
Randomized Controlled Trial of a Clinic-Based Intervention to Promote Healthy Beverage Consumption Among Latino Children
Authors: Beck Amy L. , Fernandez Alicia , Rojina Jenssy , Cabana Michael
Published: May 2017

The objective of this study was to evaluate an educational module for Latino parents about the health effects of sweet beverages. Latino parents were randomized to receive the beverage module or a control module. Child beverage consumption was assessed at baseline, 2 weeks, 2 months, and 3 months via a beverage recall survey. At 2-week follow-up, children of intervention participants had a mean reduction in 7-day total sugar-sweetened beverage and 100% fruit juice consumption of 16 ounces while controls had a mean increase of 4 ounces ( P = .01). At 2-month and 3-month follow-up, there was a reduction in mean total sugar-sweetened beverage and 100% fruit juice consumption among both intervention and control children. An educational module on beverages for Latino parents reduced child consumption of sweet beverages at 2-week follow-up. However, study participation appears to have also reduced controls’ beverage consumption suggesting that frequent intensive surveys of beverage intake may be an intervention unto itself.
Social stigma, legal and public health barriers faced by the third gender phenomena in Brazil, India and Mexico: Travestis, hijras and muxes
Authors: Diehl Alessandra , Vieira Denise Leite , Zaneti Marina Milograna , Fanganiello Ana , Sharan Pratap , Robles Rebecca , de Jesus Mari Jair
Published: May 2017

Aim and Methods:

The aim of this article is to provide a narrative literature review of the ‘third gender’ phenomenon in Brazil ( Travestis), India ( Hijras) and Mexico ( Muxes), considering the social stigma, the legal and health aspects of these identities.

Results:

These three groups share similar experiences of stigmatisation, marginalisation, sexual abuse, HIV infection, infringement of civil rights and harassment accessing health services. Brazil, India and Mexico public services for the third gender conditions are still very scarce and inadequate for the heavy demand from potential users.

Discussion and Conclusion:

Although all three countries have used legislation to promote provision of comprehensive healthcare services for third gender, there is still strong resistance to implementation of such laws and policies. Brazil, India and Mexico face a huge challenge to become countries where all human rights are respected.
What About the Different Shortened Versions of the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale?
Authors: Chiesi Francesca , Donati Maria Anna , Panno Angelo , Giacomantonio Mauro , Primi Caterina
Published: May 2017

Given the mixed conclusions on the psychometric properties of the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS) and the variety of subsets of items identified as abbreviated forms, the current study aimed to (a) further investigate the performance of single items and different combinations of items of the MAAS from within an Item Response Theory framework, (b) to expand upon existing knowledge about the coverage of the construct of the scale and its shortened versions. A sample of 914 participants (67.6% women; mean age 23.28, SD = 4.77) completed the MAAS. To fulfill the second aim of the study, of the total sample, two subsamples ( N = 156 and N = 158, respectively) were administered a battery of self-report questionnaires. Analyses attested that four items of the MAAS have weak psychometric properties and that the reliability of the scale remains unchanged when these items are excluded. The relationships with several constructs (consciousness, present-time attitude, emotional intelligence, alexithymia, emotion regulation strategies, behavioral inhibition and activation, affect, anxiety, and depression) provided evidence that the scale adequately reflects the operationalization of the construct, although some facets of the construct are only partially covered. The current findings confirm that the MAAS might be slightly shortened without reducing its reliability and validity, but drastically abbreviated forms, such as the proposed five-item version, fail to maintain adequate psychometric properties.
Migrating Learning Management Systems in Higher Education: Faculty Members’ Perceptions of System Usage and Training When Transitioning From Blackboard Vista to Desire2Learn
Authors: Rucker Ryan D. , Frass Lydia R.
Published: May 2017

This study examined a migration from Blackboard Vista to Desire2Learn (D2L) within a multiuniversity system. Faculty members’ perceptions from two of the systems’ colleges were evaluated using a questionnaire based on Davis’ technology acceptance model. Researchers analyzed responses for differences in system usage experience of faculty and in faculty usage of training and support services. Overall, faculty had positive experiences (or experienced few issues) with use of D2L and seemed to use fewer training and support resources during the migration. Although no statistically significant difference was found, recommendations were made to inform future migrations’ success.
Character development among youth
Authors: Lerner Richard M.
Published: May 2017

This article embeds the study of character development within the two-decades-long research program framed by the Lerner and Lerner model of positive youth development. Character development involves attaining the feelings, thoughts, and skills needed to act coherently across time and place to serve self and others in mutually beneficial, positive ways. Research in the U.S. and other nations suggests that there are three key features of successful character development initiatives for children and adolescents: Mentors and models, skill-building opportunities, and opportunities to participate in and to take a leadership role in valued family, school, and community activities. Implications of this research include the idea that character development can be the foundation on which other key facets of a person’s thriving can be built (e.g., competence, confidence, connection, and caring), and can provide a key basis for enabling every young person to contribute positively to their own lives and to the enhancement of their families, schools, and communities.
Rehabilitation in the internet age
Authors: Stacey Christopher
Published: May 2017

The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 provides people with criminal records protection from discrimination once their criminal record becomes ‘spent’. In this article, I highlight how media reports are increasingly available online and often mean spent convictions continue to be accessible to employers and others. However, I also look at a landmark case in 2014 that established a ‘right to be forgotten’, which enables people to ask for search results to be delisted from internet search engines. I examine to what extent this helps people with convictions.