bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Redox Process of Zn2+/Zn on Au/Ionic Liquid Interface Studied by In-Situ Surface-Enhanced Infrared Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Qi ChengZi , Zhou Wei
Published: September 2014

In-situ surface-enhanced infrared absorption spectroscopy (SEIRAS) is employed to investigate the redox process of Zn2+/Zn on Au electrode surface in ionic liquid (IL) system containing [Bmim]BF4 (1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate) mixed with zinc tetrafluoroborate (Zn(BF4)2), within the potential range of 0.2 V~ -2.6 V. The interface structure as well as the rearrangement of the ions during the zinc electrodeposition process has been traced and explained in details. The results suggest that [Bmim]+
cations integrates with anions to form high-order ions with positive charge in pure [Bmim]BF4
. The high-order ions will be broken by Zn2+ absorbed at the interface during zinc reduction, which leads to the reorientation of the [Bmim]+ cations from a vertical configuration to a more parallel one at negative potential. Meanwhile, the [Bmim]+
cations are gradually desorbed from the interface during the zinc electrodeposition process. The feature of the anions behavior is also discussed.
Reversible Zn/Zn2+ Redox in [Bmim]BF4+H2O Mixed System
Authors: Li Ning , Huang Hongyan , Zhou Wei
Published: September 2014

The electrodeposition of zinc from ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([Bmim]BF4) containing Zn(BF4)2 and its mixture with water is studied. Water addition significantly enhances the Zn/Zn2+ redox current density, and improves the reversibility largely. SEM measurements shows that the morphology of Zn deposits is dependent on the content of water. Temperature effect on the kinetics of Zn/Zn2+ redox and the Zn deposition is also investigated. Reversible Zn/Zn2+ redox in water mixed ionic liquid system is hopefully to be employed for the development of rechargeable Zn-air battery.
(Keynote Presentation) Electrocatalysis of Oxygen Reduction Reaction and Ethanol Oxidation Reaction on "Multi-Functional“ Catalysts in Alkaline Media
Authors: Chen Rongrong , Guo Junsong
Published: September 2014

In recent years, we have conducted extensive studies of electrocatalysis of oxygen reduction reactions (ORRs) and ethanol oxidation reactions (EORs) in both alkaline liquid electrolytes and alkaline exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs). ORR kinetics on carbon supported AgxCoy and CoPc-treated Ag nano-particle catalysts were improved significantly in comparisons with those on carbon supported Ag nano-particle catalysts. Electrocatalysis of EORs in alkaline media was demonstrated to be significantly faster than those in acid media. Single metal catalysts (Pt/C and Pd/C) are found to perform much poorer than those modified with the second metal, such as PdxRuy/C. It is concluded that developing multifunctional catalysts for ORRs and EORs is the key to improve ORR and EOR electrocatalytic activities in AEMFCs.
Nitrate Reduction at Electrodeposited Copper on Copper Cathode
Authors: Rajmohan Kunjuvaikarar Soundararajan , Chetty Raghuram
Published: September 2014

We report on the synthesis and characterization of low-cost copper electrodeposited on a copper substrate (Cu/Cu), and its applicability towards nitrate reduction. The surface area of Cu was increased by the electrodeposition of Cu, and at a chosen deposition potential and pH, optimum electrodeposition parameters corresponding to better catalytic activity of nitrate reduction were determined. The electrodeposited catalysts were physically characterized using scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Cyclic voltammetry was employed to screen the catalytic activity of the electrodeposited Cu/Cu catalysts towards nitrate reduction. Electrolysis was performed using potentiostatic technique and the effect of potential was studied. Product analysis showed 10% increase in nitrate removal efficiency on Cu/Cu system over bare Cu. Nitrate removal efficiency up to 97% was achieved while treating high concentration (1 M) nitrate with the optimized Cu/Cu cathode.
Effects of Iron-Oxidizing Bacteria on Carbon Steel in Oilfield Produced Water
Authors: Liu Hong Wei , Chen Bi , Zhang Fan , Qin Shuang , Zhang Guo-an , Liu Hong Fang
Published: September 2014

The effects of iron-oxidizing bacteria (IOB) on the corrosion of carbon steel in oilfield produced water was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), weight loss and electrochemical measurements including open-circuit potential (OCP), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization curve measurements. SEM morphologies showed that the biofilm was mainly composed of corrosion products, extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and little IOB. Additionally, without IOB, the corrosion products were only iron oxides. EIS indicated that the integrity of biofilm on the specimen surface changed with time and the biofilm removed partly at later stage. Potentiodynamic polarization curves indicated that IOB mainly influenced the cathodic process at later stage, and enhanced local corrosion of specimen.
The Effects of Hydrogen on Reactivation of Iron in Alkaline Solutions
Authors: Ejaz Ahsan , Lu Zhanpeng , Shoji Tetsuo , Chen Junjie , Zhou Bangxin
Published: September 2014

Effects of hydrogen on interfacial behavior of iron in alkaline solutions were investigated by electrochemical measurements using a Devanathan dual cell. Hydrogen could cause a change of open circuit state from passivity to active dissolution, caused the active dissolution range and current density peaks in anodic polarization curves, and decreased the electrochemical impedance for iron in dilute bicarbonate solutions. Hydrogen increased the anodic current and decreased the electrochemical impedance for iron in solutions with high pH values and high concentrations of bicarbonate. The effects of charged hydrogen on reactivation of iron dissolution and passive film stability as well as the interaction with solution chemistry were investigated analyzed.
Effects of Magnetic Fields, Solution Composition and Electrode Potential on Anodic Dissolution and Passivation
Authors: Lu Zhanpeng
Published: September 2014

The effects of magnetic fields, solution composition and electrode potential on anodic dissolution, current oscillation and passivity of iron and copper were investigated by electrochemical measurements. Enhancing effects of magnetic field and solution acidity on anodic dissolution of copper in sulfate-bearing solutions were observed. The effects of magnetic field on anodic current oscillations of iron and copper during potentiodynamic polarization and potentiostatic polarization were observed. Synergistic effects of magnetic fields and anions on passivity breakdown of iron was analyzed. It is proposed that magneto-electrochemistry could serve a novel approach for investigating reaction mechanisms and kinetics for complex electrode systems.
Effects of Hydrogen on Electrochemical Behavior of a Nickel Based Alloy
Authors: Xia Xiaofeng , Lu Zhanpeng , Shoji Tetsuo , Xiong Ru , Chen Junjie , Xiao Qian , Zhou Bangxin
Published: September 2014

The effects of pre-charged hydrogen on electrochemical behavior of Alloy 690 in solutions of various bicarbonate concentrations were investigated by measurements of open circuit potential, anodic polarization curves and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Charged-hydrogen shifted the open circuit potential in the negative direction, decreased the electrochemical impedance, increased the anodic current density. In general, charged hydrogen accelerated the interfacial reaction kinetics for Alloy 690 in bicarbonate solutions.
Electrochemical Preparation of Copper Nanoparticles in Choline Chloride-Urea Deep Eutectic Solvent
Authors: Wang Rui , Hua Yixin , Zhang Qibo
Published: September 2014

Copper nanoparticles (narrowly dispersed in diameter) were electrochemically prepared in the 33.3-66.7% mole fraction (m/o) choline chloride (ChCl)-urea based deep eutectic solvent. The copper source was introduced into the solvent by dissolution of Cu(I) oxide (Cu2O). The study was performed by means of cyclic voltammetry and constant voltage electrolysis, and the electrodeposits were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and particle size analyzer (PSA). Cyclic voltammogram analysis exhibited that the electrodeposition of copper in the deep eutectic solvent was a diffusion-controlled quasi-reversible process with a relatively low diffusion coefficient of 9.78×10-
8 cm2 s-1. Depended on the voltage applied, the as-prepared copper particle size was evaluated as 28±7 and 57±6 nm at 2.5 and 2.2 V, respectively. It’s expected that the ChCl–urea based deep eutectic solvent has the potential to replace the traditional hydrogen evolution suffered aqueous baths for preparation of copper nanoparticles.
Peripheral fatigue is not critically regulated during maximal, intermittent, dynamic leg extensions
Authors: Christian Ryan J. , Bishop David J. , Billaut François , Girard Olivier
Published: September 2014

Central motor drive to active muscles is believed to be reduced during numerous exercise tasks to prevent excessive peripheral fatigue development. The purpose of the present study was to use hypoxia to exacerbate physiological perturbations during a novel, intermittent exercise task and to explore the time-course and interplay between central and peripheral neuromuscular adjustments. On separate days, 14 healthy men performed four sets of 6 × 5 maximal-intensity, isokinetic leg extensions (1 repetition lasting ∼7 s) at 300°/s (15 and 100 s of passive rest between repetitions and sets, respectively) under normoxia (NM, fraction of inspired O2 0.21), moderate (MH, 0.14), and severe normobaric hypoxia (SH, 0.10). Neuromuscular assessments of the knee extensors were conducted before and immediately after each set. There was an interaction between time and condition on the mean peak torque produced during each set ( P < 0.05). RMS/M-wave activity of the rectus femoris decreased across the four sets of exercise, but there was no difference between conditions (8.3 ± 5.1% all conditions compounded, P > 0.05). Potentiated twitch torque decreased post set 1 in all conditions (all P < 0.05) with greater reductions following each set in SH compared with NM but not MH (end-exercise reductions 41.3 ± 3.0% vs. 28.0 ± 3.2%, P < 0.05 and 32.1 ± 3.3%, P > 0.05). In conclusion, severe hypoxia exacerbates both peripheral fatigue development and performance decrements during maximal, intermittent, dynamic leg extensions. In contrast to observations with other exercise modes, during exercise involving a single muscle group the attenuation of central motor drive does not appear to independently regulate the development of peripheral muscle fatigue.
PAD2 Overexpression in Transgenic Mice Promotes Spontaneous Skin Neoplasia
Authors: McElwee John L. , Mohanan Sunish , Horibata Sachi , Sams Kelly L. , Anguish Lynne J. , McLean Dalton , Cvitaš Iva , Wakshlag Joseph J. , Coonrod Scott A.
Published: September 2014

Peptidylarginine deiminase 2 (PAD2/PADI2) has been implicated in various inflammatory diseases and, more recently, cancer. The goal of this study was to test the hypothesis that PAD2 promotes oncogenesis using a transgenic mouse model. We found that about 37% of transgenic mice overexpressing human FLAG-PAD2 downstream of the MMTV-LTR promoter develop spontaneous neoplastic skin lesions. Molecular and histopathologic analyses of the resulting lesions find that they contain increased levels of markers for invasion, inflammation, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and that a subset of the lesions progress to invasive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). We then stably overexpressed FLAG-PAD2 in the human SCC cell line, A431, and found that the PAD2-overexpressing cells were more tumorigenic in vitro and also contained elevated levels of markers for inflammation and EMT. Collectively, these studies provide the first genetic evidence that PAD2 functions as an oncogene and suggest that PAD2 may promote tumor progression by enhancing inflammation within the tumor microenvironment. Cancer Res; 74(21); 6306–17. ©2014 AACR.
SCCA1/SERPINB3 Promotes Oncogenesis and Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition via the Unfolded Protein Response and IL6 Signaling
Authors: Sheshadri Namratha , Catanzaro Joseph M. , Bott Alex J. , Sun Yu , Ullman Erica , Chen Emily I. , Pan Ji-An , Wu Song , Crawford Howard C. , Zhang Jianhua , Zong Wei-Xing
Published: September 2014

The serine/cysteine protease inhibitor SCCA1 (SERPINB3) is upregulated in many advanced cancers with poor prognosis, but there is limited information about whether it makes functional contributions to malignancy. Here, we show that SCCA1 expression promoted oncogenic transformation and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in mammary epithelial cells, and that SCCA1 silencing in breast cancer cells halted their proliferation. SCCA1 overexpression in neu+ mammary tumors increased the unfolded protein response (UPR), IL6 expression, and inflammatory phenotypes. Mechanistically, SCCA1 induced a prolonged nonlethal increase in the UPR that was sufficient to activate NF-κB and expression of the protumorigenic cytokine IL6. Overall, our findings established that SCCA1 contributes to tumorigenesis by promoting EMT and a UPR-dependent induction of NF-κB and IL6 autocrine signaling that promotes a protumorigenic inflammation. Cancer Res; 74(21); 6318–29. ©2014 AACR.
The Renin–Angiotensin System Mediates EGF Receptor–Vitamin D Receptor Cross-Talk in Colitis-Associated Colon Cancer
Authors: Dougherty Urszula , Mustafi Reba , Sadiq Farhana , Almoghrabi Anas , Mustafi Devkumar , Kreisheh Maggi , Sundaramurthy Sumana , Liu Weicheng , Konda Vani J. , Pekow Joel , Khare Sharad , Hart John , Joseph Loren , Wyrwicz Alice , Karczmar Gregory S. , Li Yan Chun , Bissonnette Marc
Published: September 2014

Purpose: We previously showed that EGF receptor (EGFR) promotes tumorigenesis in the azoxymethane/dextran sulfate sodium (AOM/DSS) model, whereas vitamin D suppresses tumorigenesis. EGFR–vitamin D receptor (VDR) interactions, however, are incompletely understood. Vitamin D inhibits the renin–angiotensin system (RAS), whereas RAS can activate EGFR. We aimed to elucidate EGFR–VDR cross-talk in colorectal carcinogenesis.

Experimental Design: To examine VDR–RAS interactions, we treated Vdr+/+ and Vdr−/− mice with AOM/DSS. Effects of VDR on RAS and EGFR were examined by Western blotting, immunostaining, and real-time PCR. We also examined the effect of vitamin D3 on colonic RAS in Vdr+/+ mice. EGFR regulation of VDR was examined in hypomorphic EgfrWaved2 (Wa2) and Egfrwild-type mice. Angiotensin II (Ang II)–induced EGFR activation was studied in cell culture.

Results: Vdr deletion significantly increased tumorigenesis, activated EGFR and β-catenin signaling, and increased colonic RAS components, including renin and angiotensin II. Dietary VD3 supplementation suppressed colonic renin. Renin was increased in human colon cancers. In studies in vitro, Ang II activated EGFR and stimulated colon cancer cell proliferation by an EGFR-mediated mechanism. Ang II also activated macrophages and colonic fibroblasts. Compared with tumors from EgfrWaved2 mice, tumors from Egfrwild-type mice showed upregulated Snail1, a suppressor of VDR, and downregulated VDR.

Conclusions: VDR suppresses the colonic RAS cascade, limits EGFR signals, and inhibits colitis-associated tumorigenesis, whereas EGFR increases Snail1 and downregulates VDR in colonic tumors. Taken together, these results uncover a RAS-dependent mechanism mediating EGFR and VDR cross-talk in colon cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 20(22); 5848–59. ©2014 AACR.
Deficient Cutaneous Antibacterial Competence in Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphomas: Role of Th2-Mediated Biased Th17 Function
Authors: Wolk Kerstin , Mitsui Hiroshi , Witte Katrin , Gellrich Sylke , Gulati Nicholas , Humme Daniel , Witte Ellen , Gonsior Melanie , Beyer Marc , Kadin Marshall E. , Volk Hans-Dieter , Krueger James G. , Sterry Wolfram , Sabat Robert
Published: September 2014

Purpose: Primary cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCL) are neoplastic disorders of skin-homing T cells. Affected skin areas show morphologic similarities with alterations in other T-cell–mediated dermatoses. Furthermore, as in atopic dermatitis but in contrast with psoriasis, patients with CTCL are frequently afflicted by cutaneous bacterial infections that support the survival of lymphoma cells. Our aim was to investigate the mechanisms of elevated susceptibility to cutaneous infections in patients with CTCL.

Experimental Design: Skin samples from CTCL, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis patients were used to illuminate the antibacterial competence status and the presence of its modulating cytokines. For substantiation of findings, 3-dimensional epidermis models, isolated and in vitro generated Th-subpopulations, were applied. Parameters were analyzed via qPCR and IHC.

Results: CTCL lesions compared with psoriatic lesions presented an impaired upregulation of antibacterial proteins (ABPs), with levels even below those in atopic dermatitis. This was associated with a relative deficiency of the ABP-inducing cytokine IL-17 and a strong presence of the ABP-downregulating cytokine IL-13. The simultaneous presence of the Th17-cell cytokine IL-26 indicated that IL-17 deficiency in CTCL lesions results from functional deviation of Th17 cells. Accordingly, IL-17 but not IL-26 production by Th17 cells in vitro was inhibited by IL-4Rα ligand. Levels of other ABP inducers were comparable between CTCL and psoriasis lesions. The same was true about IL-22/TNF-α targets, including the keratinocyte hyper-regeneration marker K16 and the matrix-degrading enzyme MMP1.

Conclusion: Our results suggest that the cutaneous bacterial infections in CTCL are caused by impaired ABP induction as consequence of Th2-mediated biased Th17-cell function. Clin Cancer Res; 20(21); 5507–16. ©2014 AACR.
11β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Enzymes Modulate Effects of Glucocorticoids in Rheumatoid Arthritis Synovial Cells
Authors: Schmidt Martin , Straub Rainer H.
Published: September 2014

The tissue availability of active glucocorticoids (cortisol in humans) depends on their rate of synthesis from cholesterol, downstream metabolism, excretion and interconversion. The latter is mediated by the 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (11βHSDs). In this review, we summarize the features of the two isoenzymes, 11βHSD1 and 11βHSD2, and current available experimental data related to 11βHSDs, which are relevant in the context of synovial cells in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We conclude that due to complex feedback mechanisms inherent to the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, currently available transgenic animal models cannot display the full potential otherwise inherent to the techniques. Studies with tissue explants, mixed synovial cell preparations, cell lines derived from synovial cells, and related primary cells or established cell lines indicate that there are relatively clear differences between the two isoenzymes. 11βHSD1 is expressed primarily in fibroblasts and osteoblasts, and may be responsible for fibroblast survival and aid in the resolution of inflammation, but it is also involved in bone damage. 11βHSD2 is expressed primarily in macrophages and lymphocytes, and may be responsible for their survival, suggesting that it is critical in chronic inflammation. The situation in synovial tissue would allow 11βHSD2-expressing cells to tap the energy resources of 11βHSD1-expressing cells. The overall properties of this local glucocorticoid interconversion system might limit therapeutic use of glucocorticoids in RA.
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis Function in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis Treated with Different Glucocorticoid Approaches
Authors: Alten Rieke , Wiebe Edgar
Published: September 2014

Glucocorticoids (GCs) continue to be an important treatment option in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) - despite their multitude of side effects. Amongst those, suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis plays a dominant role. In clinical practice, low-dose GC therapy of 5 mg or less per day seems to be safest in eschewing these undesirable effects and assuring function of the HPA axis. Further research has shown that, apart from dosage, the degree of HPA axis suppression by exogenous GCs is not only dependent on the duration of therapy, but that it also underlies a significant diurnal variation. The recent development of a novel modified-release (MR) prednisone formula reflects an attempt at targeting these circadian neuroendocrine pathways of the HPA axis' function and their interplay with the immune system in RA. Data from a subset of 28 patients included in the CAPRA-1 study indicated that chronotherapy with MR prednisone has no adverse effect on HPA function. Whether adapting GC therapy to a pathophysiological circadian pattern might even be beneficial will have to be further investigated.
The Past versus the Present, 1980-2004: Reduction of Mean Initial Low-Dose, Long-Term Glucocorticoid Therapy in Rheumatoid Arthritis from 10.3 to 3.6 mg/Day, Concomitant with Early Methotrexate, with Long-Term Effectiveness and Safety of Less than 5 mg/Day
Authors: Pincus Theodore , Sokka Tuulikki , Cutolo Maurizio
Published: September 2014

Quantitative observations are presented concerning treatment with glucocorticoids of 308 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) at a weekly academic rheumatology setting over 25 years from 1980 to 2004. A database of all visits included medications and multidimensional health assessment questionnaire scores for physical function, pain and routine assessment of patient index data (RAPID3; and a surrogate RAPID3-EST), completed by each patient at each visit in routine care. Over the 5-year periods of 1980-1984, 1985-1989, 1990-1994, 1995-1999 and 2000-2004, the mean initial prednisone daily dose declined from 10.3 to 6.5, 5.1, 4.1 and 3.6 mg/day, as initial doses were >5 mg/day in 49, 16, 7, 7 and 3% of patients, 5 mg/day in 51, 80, 70, 26 and 10%, and <5 mg/day in 0, 4, 23, 67 and 86%. Reduction of prednisone doses in the respective five-year periods was accompanied by increased and earlier use of methotrexate as the first disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) in 10, 26, 57, 71 and 78%, and methotrexate treatment in 10, 26, 74, 82 and 92% of patients within the first year of disease. Higher methotrexate doses in the respective five-year periods were used after 1990, along with lower prednisone doses. Most patients were treated indefinitely with both low-dose prednisone and methotrexate; 80% continued both medications for more than 5 years. The primary adverse events were skin-thinning and bruising. New hypertension, diabetes and cataracts were seen in fewer than 10% of patients. While efficacy and safety cannot be analyzed definitively from observational data, the data suggest that many patients with RA might be treated effectively with weekly low-dose methotrexate along with initial and long-term, low-dose prednisone of <5 mg/day.
Metagenome of Mehsani Buffalo Rumen Microbiota: An Assessment of Variation in Feed-Dependent Phylogenetic and Functional Classification
Authors: Parmar Nidhi R. , Solanki Jitendra V. , Patel Anand B. , Shah Tejas M. , Patel Amrutlal K. , Parnerkar Subhash , Kumar J.I. Nirmal , Joshi Chaitanya G.
Published: September 2014

Aim: To gain a greater understanding of the ecology and metabolic potential of the rumen microbiome with the changes in the animal diet. Methods: Diet composed of varying proportion of green and dry roughages along with grains was given to 8 Mehsani buffaloes, and rumen metagenome was sketched using shotgun semiconductor sequencing. Results: In the present study, the Bacteroidetes were found to be dominant at the phyla level and Prevotella at the genus level. The ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes was found to be higher in the solid fraction as compared to the liquid fraction. In the solid fraction of the dry roughage group, the significant increment (p < 0.05) in Bacteroidetes abundance was observed with increment of roughage concentration. At the genus level, Clostridium significantly increased with the increment in roughage concentration. A comparison of glycoside hydrolase and cellulosome functional genes revealed more glycoside hydrolase 3 encoding genes with higher fiber diet and significant difference in carbohydrate-active enzymes family composition between green and dry roughage groups of the liquid fraction. Conclusion: The present study provides a base to understand the modulating behavior of microbiota which can be manipulated to improve livestock nutrient utilization efficiency and for targeting the efficient catabolism of complex carbohydrate molecules as well.
Association Between the Metabolic Syndrome, Its Individual Components, and Unprovoked Venous Thromboembolism
Authors: Ageno Walter , Di Minno Matteo N.D. , Ay Cihan , Jang Moon Ju , Hansen John-Bjarne , Steffen Lyn M. , Vayà Amparo , Rattazzi Marcello , Pabinger Ingrid , Oh Doyeun , Di Minno Giovanni , Braekkan Sigrid K. , Cushman Mary , Bonet Elena , Pauletto Paolo , Squizzato Alessandro , Dentali Francesco
Published: September 2014

Objective—

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) may contribute to the pathogenesis of venous thromboembolism (VTE), but this association requires additional investigation.

Approach and Results—

We performed a patient-level meta-analysis of case–control and cohort studies that evaluated the role of MetS and risk of unprovoked VTE. For case–control studies, odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated using logistic regression analysis to estimate the influence of individual variables on the risk of VTE; χ
2
tests for trend were used to investigate the effect of increasing number of components of MetS on the risk of VTE and to explore the influence of abdominal obesity on this relationship. For cohort studies, hazard ratios and 95% confidence interval were calculated using multivariable Cox regression analysis. Six case–control studies were included (908 cases with unprovoked VTE and 1794 controls): in multivariate analysis, MetS was independently associated with VTE (odds ratio, 1.91; 95% confidence interval, 1.57–2.33), and both MetS and abdominal obesity were better predictors of unprovoked VTE than obesity defined by the body mass index. Two prospective cohort studies were included (26 531 subjects and 289 unprovoked VTE events): age, obesity, and abdominal obesity, but not MetS were associated with VTE.

Conclusions—

Case–control but not prospective cohort studies support an association between MetS and VTE. Abdominal adiposity is a strong risk factor for VTE.
Importance of Exercise Capacity in Predicting Outcomes and Determining Optimal Timing of Surgery in Significant Primary Mitral Regurgitation
Authors: Naji Peyman , Griffin Brian P. , Barr Tyler , Asfahan Fadi , Gillinov A. Marc , Grimm Richard A. , Rodriguez L. Leonardo , Mihaljevic Tomislav , Stewart William J. , Desai Milind Y.
Published: September 2014

Background

In primary mitral regurgitation (MR), exercise echocardiography aids in symptom evaluation and timing of mitral valve (MV) surgery. In patients with grade ≥3 primary MR undergoing exercise echocardiography followed by MV surgery, we sought to assess predictors of outcomes and whether delaying MV surgery adversely affects outcomes.

Methods and Results

We studied 576 consecutive such patients (aged 57±13 years, 70% men, excluding prior valve surgery and functional MR). Clinical, echocardiographic (MR, LVEF, indexed LV dimensions, RV systolic pressure) and exercise data (metabolic equivalents) were recorded. Composite events of death, MI, stroke, and congestive heart failure were recorded. Mean LVEF was 58±5%, indexed LV end‐systolic dimension was 1.7±0.5 mm/m
2
, rest RV systolic pressure was 32±13 mm Hg, peak‐stress RV systolic pressure was 47±17 mm Hg, and percentage of age‐ and gender‐predicted metabolic equivalents was 113±27. Median time between exercise and MV surgery was 3 months (MV surgery delayed ≥1 year in 28%). At 6.6±4 years, there were 53 events (no deaths at 30 days). On stepwise multivariable survival analysis, increasing age (hazard ratio of 1.07 [95% confidence interval, 1.03 to 1.12],
P
<0.01), lower percentage of age‐ and gender‐predicted metabolic equivalents (hazard ratio of 0.82 [95% confidence interval, 0.71 to 0.94],
P
=0.007), and lower LVEF (0.94 [0.89 to 0.99],
P
=0.04) independently predicted outcomes. In patients achieving >100% predicted metabolic equivalents (n=399), delaying surgery by ≥1 year (median of 28 months) did not adversely affect outcomes (
P
=0.8).

Conclusion

In patients with primary MR that underwent exercise echocardiography followed by MV surgery, lower achieved metabolic equivalents were associated with worse long‐term outcomes. In those with preserved exercise capacity, delaying MV surgery by ≥1 year did not adversely affect outcomes.
Predictors of Carotid Thickness and Plaque Progression During a Decade
Authors: Tattersall Matthew C. , Gassett Amanda , Korcarz Claudia E. , Gepner Adam D. , Kaufman Joel D. , Liu Kiang J. , Astor Brad C. , Sheppard Lianne , Kronmal Richard A. , Stein James H.
Published: September 2014

Background and Purpose—

Carotid artery intima-media thickness (IMT) and plaque are noninvasive markers of subclinical arterial injury that predict incident cardiovascular disease. We evaluated predictors of longitudinal changes in IMT and new plaque during a decade in a longitudinal multiethnic cohort.

Methods—

Carotid IMT and plaque were evaluated in Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) participants at exams 1 and 5, a mean (standard deviation) of 9.4 (0.5) years later. Far wall carotid IMT was measured in both common and internal carotid arteries. A plaque score was calculated from all carotid segments. Mixed-effects longitudinal and multivariate regression models evaluated associations of baseline risk factors and time-updated medication use with IMT progression and plaque formation.

Results—

The 3441 MESA participants were aged 60.3 (9.4) years (53% women; 26% blacks, 22% Hispanic, 13% Chinese); 1620 (47%) had carotid plaque. Mean common carotid artery IMT progression was 11.8 (12.8) μm/year, and 1923 (56%) subjects developed new plaque. IMT progressed more slowly in Chinese (β=−2.89;
P
=0.001) and Hispanic participants (β=−1.81;
P
=0.02), and with higher baseline high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (per 5 mg/dL; β=−0.22;
P
=0.03), antihypertensive use (β=−2.06;
P
=0.0004), and time on antihypertensive medications (years; β=−0.29;
P
<0.0001). Traditional risk factors were associated with new plaque formation, with strong associations for cigarette use (odds ratio, 2.31;
P
<0.0001) and protection by black ethnicity (odds ratio, 0.68;
P
<0.0001).

Conclusions—

In a large, multiethnic cohort with a decade of follow-up, ethnicity was a strong, independent predictor of carotid IMT and plaque progression. Antihypertensive medication use was associated with less subclinical disease progression.
Trends in Incidence and Early Outcomes in a Black Afro-Caribbean Population From 1999 to 2012
Authors: Olindo Stephane , Chausson Nicolas , Mejdoubi Mehdi , Jeannin Severine , Rosillette Karine , Saint-Vil Martine , Signate Aissatou , Edimonana-Kaptue Mireille , Larraillet Veronique , Cabre Philippe , Smadja Didier , Joux Julien
Published: September 2014

Background and Purpose—

Seldom studies are available on trends in stroke incidence in blacks. We aimed to evaluate whether stroke risk prevention policies modified first-ever stroke incidence and outcomes in the black Afro-Caribbean population of Martinique.

Methods—

Etude Réalisée en Martinique et Centrée sur l’Incidence des Accidents Vasculaires Cérébraux (ERMANCIA) I and II are 2 sequential prospective population-based epidemiological studies. There have assessed temporal trends in first-ever stroke incidence, risk factors, pathological types, and early outcomes in the black Afro-Caribbean population of Martinique comparing two 12-month periods (1998–1999 and 2011–2012). Crude and age-standardized incidence and 30-day outcomes for stroke in the 2 study periods were compared using Poisson regression.

Results—

We identified 580 and 544 first-ever strokes in the 2 studies. World age-standardized incidence rates decreased by 30.6% in overall (111 [95% confidence interval, 102–120] versus 77 [95% confidence interval, 70–84]). Rate decline was greater in women than in men (34% versus 26%) particularly in women aged 65 to 74 years (−69%) and 75 to 84 years (−43%). Frequencies of hypertension and diabetes mellitus were unchanged, whereas dyslipidemia, smoking, and atrial fibrillation significantly increased. Only ischemic stroke types showed significant rate reduction in overall and in women, incidence rate ratio (95% confidence intervals) of 0.69 (0.50–0.97) and 0.61 (0.42–0.88), respectively. The overall 30-day case-fatality ratio remained stable (19.3%/17.6%), whereas a better 30-day outcome was found (modified Rankin Score, ≤2 in 47%/37.6%;
P
=0.03).

Conclusions—

Over 13 years, there has been a significant decrease (30.6%) in the age-specific first-ever stroke incidence in our Afro-Carribean population. Although prevention policies seem effective, we need to focus on new risk factors limitation and on male population adherence to prevention program.
Growth and reproduction of the deep-water rose shrimp, Parapenaeus longirostris (Lucas, 1846) (Decapoda, Penaeidae), in the Southern Tyrrhenian Sea
Authors: Arculeo Marco , Arculeo Marco , Lo Brutto Sabrina , Arculeo Marco , Lo Brutto Sabrina , Cannizzaro Leonardo , Arculeo Marco , Lo Brutto Sabrina , Cannizzaro Leonardo , Vitale Sergio
Published: September 2014

From June 2006 to May 2007, monthly samples ofParapenaeus longirostris(Lucas, 1846) were collected on land from the landings of two different, although contiguous, fishing grounds exploited by the bottom trawl fisheries of the two fishing harbours of Terrasini and Porticello, located on the north-western coast of Sicily. Carapace length (CL) of the female and male deep-water rose shrimp in Terrasini ranged from 9 to 32 mm and 13 to 26 mm, respectively, whereas in Porticello the length ranged from 8 to 31 mm and 13 to 26 mm, respectively. The Von Bertalanffy Growth Function parameters for Terrasini females and males were CL∞ = 38.5 mm, year−1and CL∞ = 32.5 mm, year−1, respectively. For Porticello females and males, the parameters were CL∞ = 40 mm, year−1and CL∞ = 30 mm, year−1, respectively. Analysis of maturity stages indicates that the deep-water rose shrimp is an asynchronous batch of almost continuous spawners, although one to two peaks of activity can be detected. In both fishing areas, the reproductive phase peaked twice, once in January and again from August to September. The sizes at first maturity (CL50%) were 27.8 and 26.6 mm CL for Terrasini and Porticello, respectively.
Immunocytochemical studies of axial resin canals. II. Localization of non-cellulosic polysaccharides in epithelium and subsidiary cells of Scots pine
Authors: Kim Jong Sik , Daniel Geoffrey
Published: September 2014

Axial resin canals in wood are distinguished into two types based on the morphology of epithelial cells; resin canals with narrow canals and thick-walled epithelial cells (Type I), and resin canals with wide canals and thin-walled epithelial cells (Type II). Following studies on Norway spruce (Type I), the distribution of non-cellulosic polysaccharides in axial resin canals of Scots pine (Type II) is reported here using cytochemical and immunocytochemical methods. The distribution of (1→4)-β-galactan (LM5), (1→5)-α-arabinan (LM6), homogalacturonan (LM19, LM20), xyloglucan (LM15), xylan (LM10, LM11) and mannan (LM21, LM22) epitopes were examined. Axial resin canal complexes in the xylem were composed of canal, epithelium and subsidiary cells (parenchyma and strand tracheids). Strand tracheids were absent in axial resin canals in the phloem. Strand tracheids showed a completely different ultrastructure and chemistry from normal mature tracheids and other types of axial resin canal cells. Immunolocalization of non-cellulosic polysaccharides in axial resin canals showed an overall similar cell wall composition in epithelial cells and subsidiary parenchyma between the xylem and phloem. All types of axial resin canal cells in both xylem and phloem contained homogalacturonan (HG), rhamnogalacturonan-I (RG-I) and xyloglucan with a high variation in amount and chemical structure depending on cell wall region and between cell types. In particular, epithelial cell walls facing the canal showed significant differences in HG distribution from other epithelial cell wall regions. No xylan and mannan epitopes were detected in any of axial resin canal cells. Together, our results suggest that the chemistry of axial resin canal cells in Scots pine may be highly compartmentalized depending on functional differences between both cell types and cell wall regions.
Spiel Appeal: Play, Drug Use and the Culture of 1968 in West Germany
Authors: Morris Will
Published: September 2014

‘Spiel Appeal’ offers a cultural reading of one important element of the youth consciousness which underpinned events in West Germany between 1967 and 1969 and which shaped the legacy of those years: drug consumption. Drugs were part and parcel of a new vision of leftism, primarily among the nation’s young adults, that helped enable West Germany’s 1968. Sixty-eighters did not use recreational drugs as a simple form of juvenile protest or as a pure escape, nor was drug use a regrettable excess, as some rueful sixty-eighters later argued. In the individual life stories of sixty-eighters, as reflected in both autobiographies and novels, the drugs’ primary roles were as facilitators of community and ‘awakening’. They were essential elements of the playful leftist counterculture which youth and leftists invented concretely throughout Germany at the onset of the 1970s in the form of urban sub-cultures and alternative ‘scenes’, the invention of which constitutes one of the most important social legacies of 1968.
Perceived Musculoskeletal Discomfort Among Elementary, Middle, and High School String Players
Authors: Russell Joshua A. , Benedetto Rachel L.
Published: September 2014

The purposes of this study were to identify the body regions where young string players report experiencing musculoskeletal discomfort and explore factors that may impact their perceived discomfort. A purposive yet nonprobability sample of elementary ( n = 101), middle school ( n = 97), and high school ( n = 159) students participated in the study by completing a questionnaire developed from previous research. Participants responded to items designed to collect data regarding the extent and location of discomfort, warm-up activities, physical activities, and psychological issues thought to impact perceived discomfort. Participants reported experiencing little musculoskeletal discomfort, and no relationship was found between discomfort and warm-up or physical activities. Participants’ school level, instrument, and gender were not related to musculoskeletal discomfort. On the basis of participants’ responses, we were able to identify five regions of the body where young string players experience varying levels of discomfort. We found significant relationships between string class frequency, stress about playing the instrument, and enjoyment of the instrument and reported musculoskeletal discomfort.
Inequality in Access to Social Capital in the Netherlands
Authors: van Tubergen Frank , Volker Beate
Published: September 2014

Whereas much research has been done on the benefits of social capital, less is known about the causes of the unequal distribution of social capital in people’s networks. This study examines inequalities in access to social capital in terms of the socio-economic resources that are embedded in personal networks. Using data from NELLS, a nationally representative survey of the Dutch population aged 15–45 years, results show that within this age group access to social capital increases with age and educational qualifications, and is lower among women. Residing in a less affluent neighbourhood and scoring lower on a measurement for cognitive abilities are associated with less social capital. Participation in voluntary associations and having an ethnically diverse network are associated with more access to social capital. Surprisingly, when studying differences across national origin groups, we do not find that Turkish immigrants are disadvantaged in access to social capital.
“Closer to God”
Authors: Skerrett Allison
Published: September 2014

This article uses case study methods and theories of literacy as social practice to explore how an adolescent developed her religious identity and religious literacies in relationship with more secular identities and literacy practices across multiple social contexts. It further examines how the youth engaged her religious identity and religious literacies concomitantly with other identities and literacy practices for developing and displaying academic identity and academic literacies in school. In so doing, the article offers important theoretical understandings and pedagogical implications relative to the potential of religious identity and religious literacies in the education of increasingly diverse urban school populations.
The Sociohistorical Context of Imposition in Substrate Effects
Authors: Wilkerson Miranda E. , Livengood Mark , Salmons Joe
Published: September 2014

A growing literature directly connects historical demographic patterns to the emergence of new dialects or languages. This article moves beyond the usual macro view of such data, relying on simple numbers of speakers and similar information, to focus on the input to new generations of speakers in a so-called substrate setting. The English now spoken in eastern Wisconsin shows a range of influences from German, and we work to reconstruct the kinds of input that the first large generation of English L1, mostly monolingual English-speaking children in the community,likely received at the level of the household and the individual. Evidence strongly suggests that most children in the community would have been widely exposed to heavily German-influenced English, in part due to a critical moment of shift from German to English as the home language in many households.
Adorno’s radio phenomenology
Authors: Babich Babette
Published: September 2014

Adorno’s phenomenological study of radio offers a sociology of music in a political and cultural context. Situating that phenomenology in the context of Adorno’s philosophical background and the world political circumstances of Adorno’s collaboration with Paul Lazarsfeld on the Princeton Radio Project, illuminates both Adorno’s Current of Music and the Dialectic of Enlightenment with Max Horkheimer and the ‘Culture Industry’. Together with an analysis of popular music in social practice/culture, this article also explores Adorno’s spatial reflections on Paul Bekker’s notion of the community-building power of the symphony, including his reflection on the radio face which he elaborated in terms of both time and the physiognomics of the time-space of sound, private and communal, and adds connections with today’s Internet and related media.
Evaluation of the Poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid)/Pluronic F127 for Injection Laryngoplasty in Rabbits
Authors: Lee Jin Ho , Kim Dong Wook , Kim Eun Na , Park Seok‐Won , Kim Hee‐Bok , Oh Se Heang , Kwon Seong Keun
Published: September 2014

Objective

Poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) is an aliphatic polyester and one of the most commonly used synthetic biodegradable polymers for tissue engineering. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the biocompatibility of PLGA/Pluronic F127 in the vocal fold.

Study Design

A randomized, prospective, controlled animal study.

Setting

University laboratory.

Subjects and Methods

We used 18 New Zealand white rabbits, which were divided into 5% PLGA solution (n = 9) and 10% PLGA solution (n = 9) groups. The PLGA/Pluronic F127 solutions were injected into the rabbit vocal fold. Laryngoscopic exams were performed at 1, 4, and 8 weeks after implantation; then larynx specimens were sampled. High‐speed video camera examination was performed for functional analysis of vocal mucosa vibration at 8 weeks after implantation. Also, we evaluated the amplitude of the mucosal wave from the laryngeal midline on high‐speed recording. Histologic study of larynx specimen was performed at 4 and 8 weeks.

Results

All animals survived until the scheduled period. Laryngoscopic analysis showed that both 5% and 10% PLGA/Pluronic F127 maintained after 8 weeks after injection without significant inflammatory response. On functional analysis, high‐speed camera examination revealed regular and symmetric contact of vocal fold mucosa without a distorted movement by injected PLGA/Pluronic F127. Histologically, no significant inflammation was observed in the injected vocal fold.

Conclusion

As a vocal fold injection material, PLGA/Pluronic F127 showed a good bio‐compatibility without significant inflammatory response. Further experiment will follow to elucidate its role for drug or gene delivery into the vocal fold.
Diagnostic Approach, Treatment, and Outcomes of Cervical Sympathetic Chain Schwannomas: A Global Narrative Review
Authors: Navaie Maryam , Sharghi Leighla H. , Cho‐Reyes Soojin , Keefe Michael A. , Howie Benjamin A. , Setzen Gavin
Published: September 2014

Objective

This review examined the diagnostic approach, surgical treatment, and outcomes of cervical sympathetic chain schwannomas (CSCS) to guide clinical decision making.

Data Sources

Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases.

Review Methods

A literature review from 1998 to 2013 identified 156 articles of which 51 representing 89 CSCS cases were evaluated in detail. Demographic, clinical, and outcomes data were extracted by 2 independent reviewers with high interrater reliability (κ =. 79). Cases were mostly international (82%), predominantly from Asia (50%) and Europe (27%).

Conclusions

On average, patients were 42.6 years old (SD = 13.3) and had a neck mass ranging between 2 to 4 cm (52.7%) or >4 cm (43.2%). Nearly 70% of cases were asymptomatic at presentation. Presurgical diagnosis relied on CT (63.4%), MRI (59.8%), or both (19.5%), supplemented by cytology (33.7%), which was nearly always inconclusive (96.7%). US‐treated cases were significantly more likely to receive presurgical MRI than internationally treated cases but less likely to have cytology (P <. 05). Presurgical diagnosis was challenging, with only 11% confirmatory accuracy postsurgically. Irrespective of mass size, extracapsular resection (ie, complete resection with nerve sacrifice) was the most frequently (87.6%) performed surgical procedure. Common postsurgical adverse events included Horner's syndrome (91.1%), first bite syndrome (21.1%), or both (15.7%), with higher prevalence when mass size was >4 cm. Adverse events persisted in 82.3% of cases at an average 30.0 months (SD = 30.1) follow‐up time.

Implications for Practice

Given the typical CSCS patient is young and asymptomatic and the likelihood of persistent morbidity is high with standard surgical approaches, less invasive treatment options warrant consideration.