bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tumor Cell–Independent Estrogen Signaling Drives Disease Progression through Mobilization of Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells
Authors: Svoronos Nikolaos , Perales-Puchalt Alfredo , Allegrezza Michael J. , Rutkowski Melanie R. , Payne Kyle K. , Tesone Amelia J. , Nguyen Jenny M. , Curiel Tyler J. , Cadungog Mark G. , Singhal Sunil , Eruslanov Evgeniy B. , Zhang Paul , Tchou Julia , Zhang Rugang , Conejo-Garcia Jose R.
Published: October 2016

The role of estrogens in antitumor immunity remains poorly understood. Here, we show that estrogen signaling accelerates the progression of different estrogen-insensitive tumor models by contributing to deregulated myelopoiesis by both driving the mobilization of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) and enhancing their intrinsic immunosuppressive activity in vivo. Differences in tumor growth are dependent on blunted antitumor immunity and, correspondingly, disappear in immunodeficient hosts and upon MDSC depletion. Mechanistically, estrogen receptor alpha activates the STAT3 pathway in human and mouse bone marrow myeloid precursors by enhancing JAK2 and SRC activity. Therefore, estrogen signaling is a crucial mechanism underlying pathologic myelopoiesis in cancer. Our work suggests that new antiestrogen drugs that have no agonistic effects may have benefits in a wide range of cancers, independently of the expression of estrogen receptors in tumor cells, and may synergize with immunotherapies to significantly extend survival.

Significance: Ablating estrogenic activity delays malignant progression independently of the tumor cell responsiveness, owing to a decrease in the mobilization and immunosuppressive activity of MDSCs, which boosts T-cell–dependent antitumor immunity. Our results provide a mechanistic rationale to block estrogen signaling with newer antagonists to boost the effectiveness of anticancer immunotherapies. Cancer Discov; 7(1); 72–85. ©2016 AACR.

See related commentary by Welte et al., p. 17.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1
Acquired METD1228V Mutation and Resistance to MET Inhibition in Lung Cancer
Authors: Bahcall Magda , Sim Taebo , Paweletz Cloud P. , Patel Jyoti D. , Alden Ryan S. , Kuang Yanan , Sacher Adrian G. , Kim Nam Doo , Lydon Christine A. , Awad Mark M. , Jaklitsch Michael T. , Sholl Lynette M. , Jänne Pasi A. , Oxnard Geoffrey R.
Published: October 2016

Amplified and/or mutated MET can act as both a primary oncogenic driver and as a promoter of tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) resistance in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the landscape of MET-specific targeting agents remains underdeveloped, and understanding of mechanisms of resistance to MET TKIs is limited. Here, we present a case of a patient with lung adenocarcinoma harboring both a mutation in EGFR and an amplification of MET, who after progression on erlotinib responded dramatically to combined MET and EGFR inhibition with savolitinib and osimertinib. When resistance developed to this combination, a new MET kinase domain mutation, D1228V, was detected. Our in vitro findings demonstrate that METD1228V induces resistance to type I MET TKIs through impaired drug binding, while sensitivity to type II MET TKIs is maintained. Based on these findings, the patient was treated with erlotinib combined with cabozantinib, a type II MET inhibitor, and exhibited a response.

Significance: With several structurally distinct MET inhibitors undergoing development for treatment of NSCLC, it is critical to identify mechanism-based therapies for drug resistance. We demonstrate that an acquired METD1228V mutation mediates resistance to type I, but not type II, MET inhibitors, having therapeutic implications for the clinical use of sequential MET inhibitors. Cancer Discov; 6(12); 1334–41. ©2016 AACR.

See related commentary by Trusolino, p. 1306.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1293
Racial Difference in Symptom Onset to Door Time in ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Bolorunduro Oluwaseyi , Smith Blake , Chumpia Mason , Valasareddy Poojitha , Heckle Mark R. , Khouzam Rami N. , Reed Guy L. , Ibebuogu Uzoma N.
Published: October 2016

Background

There are poorer outcomes following
ST
elevation myocardial infarction in blacks compared to white patients despite comparable door‐to‐reperfusion time. We hypothesized that delays to hospital presentation may be contributory.

Methods and Results

We conducted a retrospective analysis of the 1144 patients admitted for
STEMI
in our institution from 2008 to 2013. The door‐to‐balloon time (D2
BT
) and symptom‐onset‐to‐door time (
SODT
) were compared by race. Bivariate analysis was done comparing the median D2
BT
and
SODT
. Stratified analyses were done to evaluate the effect of race on D2
BT
and
SODT
, accounting for insurance status, age, sex and comorbidities. The mean age was 59±13 years; 56% of this population was black and 41% was white. Males accounted for 66% of this population. The median D2
BT
was 60 minutes (interquartile range [
IQR
] 42–82), and median
SODT
was 120 minutes (
IQR
60–720). There was no significant difference in D2
BT
by race (
P
=0.86). Black patients presented to the emergency room (
ER
) later than whites (
SODT
=180 [
IQR
60–1400] vs 120 [
IQR
60–560] minutes,
P
<0.01) and were more likely to be uninsured (
P
<0.01). After controlling for comorbidities, insurance, and socioeconomic status, blacks were 60% more likely to present late after a
STEMI
(
OR
1.6,
P
<0.01). A subset analysis excluding transferred patients showed similar results.

Conclusions

Black patients present later to the
ER
after
STEMI
with no difference in D2
BT
compared to whites. This difference in time to presentation may be one of the factors accounting for poor outcomes in this population.
Nonsustained Atrial Fibrillation in Ischemic Stroke Patients and Stroke‐Free Controls From the Perspective of Stroke Pathophysiology
Authors: Yetim Ezgi , Topcuoglu Mehmet Akif , Canpolat Ugur , Gocmen Rahsan , Oguz Kader K. , Ozer Necla , Aytemir Kudret , Arsava Ethem Murat
Published: October 2016

Background

Short‐lasting (<30 s), nonsustained episodes of atrial fibrillation (
NS
‐
AF
) are considered a risk factor for future development of paroxysmal or persistent
AF
. Nonetheless, their causal role in stroke pathogenesis is currently unknown. In this study we determined the frequency of
NS
‐
AF
, together with the associated clinical and imaging features, in stroke‐free controls and ischemic stroke patients.

Methods and Results

A total of 332 controls, ≥50 years of age and no prior history of stroke or
AF
, were evaluated with 24‐hour Holter monitoring for the presence of <30‐s‐long
AF
episodes. The demographic and cardiovascular features of this cohort, together with imaging finding on magnetic resonance imaging, were compared to a consecutive series of ≥50‐year‐old ischemic stroke patients without
AF
(n=498). The prevalence of
NS
‐
AF
was significantly higher among ischemic stroke patients in comparison to controls (37% versus 27%;
P
=0.002). In multivariable analyses, after adjustment for demographic and cardiovascular risk factors, patients with ischemic stroke were more likely to harbor
NS
‐
AF
episodes (odds ratio 1.43; 95% CI 1.01–2.02;
P
=0.041). The association between ischemic stroke and
NS
‐
AF
weakened when the analyses were restricted to cryptogenic stroke patients (odds ratio 1.31; 95%
CI
0.82–2.08). No significant association was observed between the presence of chronic cortical infarcts and
NS
‐
AF
.

Conclusions

Our study shows a higher prevalence of
NS
‐
AF
episodes in ischemic stroke patients in comparison to controls. Nonetheless, the lack of a stronger association with cryptogenic strokes and absence of a relationship with chronic cortical infarcts brings into question the causal influence of
NS
‐
AF
in the ischemic stroke setting.
Percutaneous Pulmonary Valve Implantation Alters Electrophysiologic Substrate
Authors: Nguyen Hoang H. , Shahanavaz Shabana , Van Hare George F. , Balzer David T. , Nicolas Ramzi , Avari Silva Jennifer N.
Published: October 2016

Background

Percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation (
PPVI
) is first‐line therapy for some congenital heart disease patients with right ventricular outflow tract dysfunction. The hemodynamics improvements after
PPVI
are well documented, but little is known about its effects on the electrophysiologic substrate. The objective of this study is to assess the short‐ and medium‐term electrophysiologic substrate changes and elucidate postprocedure arrhythmias.

Methods and Results

A retrospective chart review of patients undergoing
PPVI
from May 2010 to April 2015 was performed. A total of 106 patients underwent
PPVI
; most commonly these patients had tetralogy of Fallot (n=59, 55%) and pulmonary insufficiency (n=60, 57%). The median follow‐up time was 28 months (7‐63 months). Pre‐
PPVI
, 25 patients (24%) had documented arrhythmias: nonsustained ventricular tachycardia (
NSVT
) (n=9, 8%), frequent premature ventricular contractions (
PVC
s) (n=6, 6%), and atrial fibrillation/flutter (
AF
/
AFL
) (n=10, 9%). Post‐
PPVI
, arrhythmias resolved in 4 patients who had
NSVT
(44%) and 5 patients who had
PVC
s (83%). New arrhythmias were seen in 16 patients (15%): 7
NSVT
, 8
PVC
s, and 1
AF
/
AFL
. There was resolution at medium‐term follow‐up in 6 (86%) patients with new‐onset
NSVT
and 7 (88%) patients with new‐onset
PVC
s. There was no difference in
QRS
duration pre‐
PPVI
, post‐
PPVI
, and at medium‐term follow‐up (
P
=0.6). The median corrected
QT
lengthened immediately post‐
PPVI
but shortened significantly at midterm follow‐up (
P
<0.01).

Conclusions

PPVI
reduced the prevalence of
NSVT
. The majority of postimplant arrhythmias resolve by 6 months of follow‐up.
Laryngotracheal Stenosis in Children and Infants With Neurological Disorders
Authors: Nicollas Richard , Moreddu Eric , Le Treut-Gay Claire , Roman Stéphane , Mancini Julien , Triglia Jean-Michel
Published: October 2016

Introduction:

The goal of this retrospective study is to compare the management and outcome of surgical treatment of laryngotracheal stenosis in children and infants with and without an associated neurological disorder.

Patients and Method:

In a series of children operated on for subglottic stenosis (SGS), patients with an associated neurological disorder were identified. The following criteria were compared in children with and without neurological disease: grade of stenosis, age, technique (Crico-Tracheal Resection (CTR), Laryngo-Tracheo-Plasty (LTP) in single and 2 stage, laser), analyzing duration, preoperative tracheostomy, decannulation rate, preoperative gastrostomy, and number of days in intensive care unit and in hospital.

Results:

Two hundred twenty-three children were operated on for subglottic stenosis, of whom 68 (30.5%) had an associated neurological disorder. Some criteria were found to be statistically different between the 2 populations: mean age of 43 months in neurological population versus 13 months ( P < .001). The distribution of the grades of SGS appeared similar in the 2 groups ( P = .088), and the mean duration of stay in hospital and in ICU were not statistically different (respectively, P = .186 and P = .056) between the 2 groups; a 2-stage procedure was performed more frequently than 1-stage in the cases with associated neurological disorder—66.6% versus 36.5% ( P = .013); the median duration of stenting was 20 days in those with neurological disease versus 12 ( P = .021). Preoperative tracheotomy was noted in 75% of neurological patients versus 47.7% of the others ( P < .001). The outcome was considered to be good (decannulation and no further treatment) following a single procedure in 82.4% of patients with neurological disorder, as against 86.5% of neurologically unimpaired subjects. The difference in outcome of surgery was not statistically different ( P = .392) between the 2 groups.

Discussion and Conclusion:

It appears that subglottic stenosis in children with associated neurological disorder is not more severe than in neurologically normal patients. In three-quarters of the neurologically impaired cases, a preoperative tracheostomy was needed, but the rates of failure of postoperative decannulation are not statistically significant between the 2 groups. In our experience, 2-stage techniques are more often performed than single stage in this population in order to allow airway safety, for example after feeding. If properly managed, the final results are similar in the 2 populations.
Sinus Penetration of a Pulsating Device Versus the Classic Squeeze Bottle in Cadavers Undergoing Sinus Surgery
Authors: Chen Philip G. , Murphy Jae , Alloju Les M. , Boase Sam , Wormald Peter-John
Published: October 2016

Objectives:

Nasal irrigation is standard in the management of chronic rhinosinusitis both before and after surgical intervention. Numerous irrigation devices are commercially available. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of a handheld pulse irrigation device against the gold standard manual squeeze bottle after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS).

Methods:

Five cadaveric specimens were prepared with video visualization ports into each sinus. Endoscopic sinus surgery was performed on each cadaver from minimal to maximal dissection. Sinuses were irrigated with fluorescein solution using both devices following each dissection. The irrigations were video recorded. A blinded independent observer scored each irrigation according to a defined scale.

Results:

Comparison of the 2 devices using an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC = 0.39) showed the 2 systems differed. Observation of individual sinuses showed the squeeze bottle consistently provided greater irrigation in the maxillary ( P < .006), frontal ( P < .0001), and sphenoid ( P < .0001) sinuses. Pulse irrigation improved only in the maxillary sinus following ESS.

Conclusion:

The squeeze bottle consistently demonstrated superior irrigation in both native and operated conditions. Interestingly, saline penetration was not significantly improved after opening of the frontal and sphenoid sinuses. This is likely due to decreased backpressure in the nasal passage after opening the sinus cavities.
Determination of Nickel and Manganese Contaminants in Pharmaceutical Iron Supplements Using Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence
Authors: Cardoso Pedro , Amaro Pedro , Santos José Paulo , de Assis Joaquim T. , Carvalho Maria Luisa
Published: October 2016

In this study, we investigate the capability of energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXF) spectrometry in a triaxial geometry apparatus as a fast and nondestructive determination method of both dominant and contaminant elements in pharmaceutical iron supplements. The following iron supplements brands with their respective active ingredients were analyzed: Neutrofer fólico (iron gylcinate), Anemifer (iron(II) sulfate monohydrate), Noripurum (iron(III)-hydroxide polymaltose complex), Sulferbel (iron(II) sulfate monohydrate), and Combiron Fólico (carbonyl iron). Although we observe a good agreement between the iron content obtained by the present method and that indicated in the supplement's prescribed dose, we observe contamination by manganese and nickel of up to 180 μg and 36 μg, respectively. These contents correspond to 7.2% and 14.4% of the permitted daily exposure of manganese and nickel, respectively, for an average adult individual as determined by the European Medicine Agency (EMEA). The method was successfully validated against the concentrations of several certified reference materials of biological light matrices with similar concentrations of contaminants. Moreover, we also validated our method by comparing the concentrations with those obtained with the inductively coupled plasma–atomic emission technique.
Background Subtraction of Raman Spectra Based on Iterative Polynomial Smoothing
Authors: Wang Tuo , Dai Liankui
Published: October 2016

In this paper, a novel background subtraction algorithm is presented that can automatically recover Raman signal. This algorithm is based on an iterative polynomial smoothing method that highly reduces the need for experience and a priori knowledge. First, a polynomial filter is applied to smooth the input spectrum (the input spectrum is just an original spectrum at the first iteration). The output curve of the filter divides the original spectrum into two parts, top and bottom. Second, a proportion is calculated between the lowest point of the signal in the bottom part and the highest point of the signal in the top part. The proportion is a key index that decides whether to go into a new iteration. If a new iteration is needed, the minimum value between the output curve and the original spectrum forms a new curve that goes into the same filter in the first step and continues as another iteration until no more iteration is needed to finally get the background of the original spectrum. Results from the simulation experiments not only show that the iterative polynomial smoothing algorithm achieves good performance, processing time, cost, and accuracy of recovery, but also prove that the algorithm adapts to different background types and a large signal-to-noise ratio range. Furthermore, real measured Raman spectra of organic mixtures and non-organic samples are used to demonstrate the application of the algorithm.
Free-text comments as a tool for developing the self-report method: Parents’ responses to a survey on violence against children
Authors: Ellonen Noora , Fagerlund Monica , Pösö Tarja
Published: October 2016

Self-report measures are used to study the degree of victimisation in children that have experienced violence. Very little methodological attention is, however, paid to development of these measures. In this article, we will analyse parents’ free-text comments in response to a self-report survey of their own violent behaviour towards their children. Themes presented by parents concerning violence against children as a phenomenon will be analysed and methodological input of these free-text comments in a self-report survey will be examined. Analysis is based on survey data collected in Finland in 2011 (N = 3170) including 2047 free-text comments. Based on the thematic analysis of those comments, four themes were phrased: making sense of the responses, defining violence, children and violence in society and experiencing exclusion. Parents’ comments with respect to these themes reflected the complexity of what actually constitutes violence against children. Analysis also showed that free-text comments are a valuable and ethically sound tool for developing the self-report measure.
Improving access to primary mental health care for Australian children
Authors: Bassilios Bridget , Nicholas Angela , Reifels Lennart , King Kylie , Spittal Matthew J , Fletcher Justine , Pirkis Jane
Published: October 2016

Objective:

This study examines the uptake by children aged predominantly 0–11 years of an Australian primary mental health service – the Access to Allied Psychological Services programme – which began in 2001. In particular, it considers access to, and use of, the child component of Access to Allied Psychological Services, the Child Mental Health Service, introduced in 2010.

Method:

Using routinely collected programme data from a national minimum dataset and regional population data, we conducted descriptive and regression analysis to examine programme uptake, predictors of service reach and consumer- and treatment-based characteristics of service.

Results:

Between 2003 and 2013, 18,631 referrals for children were made and 75,178 sessions were scheduled via Access to Allied Psychological Services, over 50% of which were via the Child Mental Health Service in its first 3 years of operation. The rate of referrals for children to the Child Mental Health Service was associated with the rate of Access to Allied Psychological Services referrals for consumers aged 12+ years.

Conclusions:

The Child Mental Health Service has increased services provided within the Access to Allied Psychological Services programme for children with emotional and behavioural issues and their families, and is potentially filling a service gap in the area of prevention and early intervention for children who have significant levels of need but are unable to access other mental health services. Our findings are policy-relevant for other developed countries with a similar primary mental health care system that are considering means of improving service access by children.
The impact of potentially traumatic events on the mental health of males who have served in the military: Findings from the Australian National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing
Authors: Wade Darryl , Mewton Louise , Varker Tracey , Phelps Andrea , Forbes David
Published: October 2016

Objective:

The study investigated the impact of potentially traumatic events on mental health outcomes among males who had ever served in the Australian Defence Force.

Method:

Data from a nationally representative household survey of Australian residents, the 2007 National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing, were used for this study.

Results:

Compared with community members, Australian Defence Force males were significantly more likely to have experienced not only deployment and other war-like events but also accidents or other unexpected events, and trauma to someone close. For non-deployed males, Australian Defence Force members were at increased risk of accidents or other unexpected events compared to community members. After controlling for the effect of potentially traumatic events that were more prevalent among all Australian Defence Force members, the increased risk of mental disorders among Australian Defence Force members was no longer evident. For non-deployed males, Australian Defence Force and community members were at comparable risk of poor mental health outcomes. A significant minority of Australian Defence Force members had onset of a mental disorder prior to their first deployment.

Conclusions:

Deployment and other potentially traumatic events among Australian Defence Force members can help to explain their increased vulnerability to mental disorders compared with community members. Providers should routinely enquire about a range of potentially traumatic events among serving and ex-serving military personnel.
Assessing the Possible Relationship between the Sentiment of Church-related Tweets and Church Growth
Authors: Cooper Anthony-Paul
Published: October 2016

This article examines the possible relationship between the sentiment of church-related tweets and church growth. It finds that within the sample of tweets analysed, there is a statistically significant relationship between the sentiment of a church-related tweet and the presence of church growth in the geographical area from which the tweet was posted. This work builds on the body of knowledge surrounding church growth and decline in the United Kingdom, by seeking to better understand how new sources of data, in this case freely available social media data, can be used to gain a better understanding of the behaviours of churches which regularly form, merge, move, split and close.
Building Support From Below? Subnational Elections, Diffusion Effects, and the Growth of the Opposition in Mexico, 1984-2000
Authors: Lucardi Adrián
Published: October 2016

Can subnational elections contribute to democratization? In autocracies that hold competitive elections at multiple levels of government, subnational executive offices provide opposition parties with access to resources, increase their visibility among voters, and let them gain experience in government. This allows opposition parties to use subnational executives as “springboards” from which to increase their electoral support in future races, and predicts that their electoral support should follow a diffusion process, that is, a party’s electoral performance in municipality m at time t should be better if that party already governs some of m’s neighbors since t − 1. I evaluate this claim with data from municipal-level elections in Mexico between 1984 and 2000. Consistent with the fact that the Partido Acción Nacional (National Action Party, PAN) followed an explicit strategy of party-building from below but the Partido de la Revolución Democrática (Party of the Democratic Revolution, PRD) did not, the results indicate that diffusion effects contributed to the growth of the former but not the latter.
Kindergarteners’ Achievement on Geometry and Measurement Units That Incorporate a Gifted Education Approach
Authors: Casa Tutita M. , Firmender Janine M. , Gavin M. Katherine , Carroll Susan R.
Published: October 2016

This research responds to the call by early childhood educators advocating for more challenging mathematics curriculum at the primary level. The kindergarten Project M2 units focus on challenging geometry and measurement concepts by positioning students as practicing mathematicians. The research reported herein highlights the features of the kindergarten units and reports on student achievement, including the differences between the intervention and comparison groups. Hierarchical linear modeling results indicate that students in the intervention group ( n = 210) outperformed those in the comparison group ( n = 196) on the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills Mathematics subscale ( p < .01; d = 0.25), and an open-response assessment ( p < .001; d = 2.68) encompassing performance-based, verbal, and written components. These results suggest that kindergarteners can achieve at high levels of mathematical understanding when given the opportunity to learn from more challenging curriculum.
Foam extrusion of PP-based wood plastic composites with chemical blowing agents and the Celuka technique
Authors: Hoffmann Christina , Lang Marieluise , Heidemeyer Peter , Bastian Martin , Fischer Katja , Sonntag Martin
Published: October 2016

Wood plastic composites have gained relevance in recent years as an alternative to wood boards. However, because the cavities in wood fibres are compressed by high processing pressure during the extrusion of wood plastic composites, the product densities show a range of up to 1.5 g/cm3depending on wood content and base material. Particularly in large-sized products, this may be disadvantageous for processors and end users. Foaming of the plastic matrix is a promising approach to reduce the density of wood plastic composites products. This article discusses the foam extrusion of PP-based wood plastic composites with chemical blowing agents in combination with the Celuka technique. Integral wood plastic composites foam with a rigid and plain outer layer was produced using a parallel, counter rotating twin screw extruder. The profiles obtained were analysed with respect to foam structure and mechanical properties. It was possible to achieve a density reduction of up to 0.7 g/cm3in the foamed wood plastic composites profiles. Furthermore, we demonstrate that wood fibre length and type of chemical blowing agent have a strong effect on the resulting foam morphology.
Improved expansion ratio and heat resistance of microcellular poly(L-lactide) foam via in-situ formation of stereocomplex crystallites
Authors: Xue Shuaiwei , Jia Pin , Ren Qian , Liu Xincai , Lee Richard E , Zhai Wentao
Published: October 2016

It is critical to broaden the applications of poly(L-lactic acid) foams by improving heat resistance properties. The stereocomplex crystallites that are formed by melt blending of poly(L-lactic acid)/polylactide possess high melting point of about 220℃ and thus exhibit high heat resistance; therefore, the introduction of stereocomplex crystallites tends to improve the thermal stability of poly(lactic acid) foam. Unfortunately, using the solid-state foaming method, it was found that the expansion ratio of the obtained poly(lactic acid) foams was compromised with the value of 1.7 times once the stereocomplex crystallites were formed during the sample saturation stage. In this study, by applying a high compression molding temperature of 230℃, the as-prepared poly(L-lactic acid) and poly(L-lactic acid)/polylactide blends were amorphous. After being CO2 saturated at a mild condition, the specimens were foamed at 90–160℃. The wide-angle X-ray diffraction profiles presented that the stereocomplex crystallites and PLA homocrystals were in-situ generated during the foaming process. It is observed that the in-situ formed stereocomplex crystallites could act as the physical cross-linking agent to stabilize the nucleated bubbles and suppress cell coalescence, resulting in the increased expansion ratio (with value of about 23.6–25.6 times) and cell density, especially at high foaming temperatures and extended foaming time. Furthermore, the in-situ formed stereocomplex crystallites during the foaming increased the heat resistance performance of poly(L-lactic acid) foams. This novel crystallization control method helps us to find a balance point in preparing poly(L-lactic acid) foam with high expansion ratio, well-defined cell structure and high heat resistance performance.
Extracellular ATP Induces Calcium Signaling in Odontoblasts
Authors: Lee B.M. , Jo H. , Park G. , Kim Y.H. , Park C.K. , Jung S.J. , Chung G. , Oh S.B.
Published: October 2016

Odontoblasts form dentin at the outermost surface of tooth pulp. An increasing level of evidence in recent years, along with their locational advantage, implicates odontoblasts as a secondary role as sensory or immune cells. Extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is a well-characterized signaling molecule in the neuronal and immune systems, and its potential involvement in interodontoblast communications was recently demonstrated. In an effort to elaborate the ATP-mediated signaling pathway in odontoblasts, the current study performed single-cell reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunofluorescent detection to investigate the expression of ATP receptors related to calcium signal in odontoblasts from incisal teeth of 8- to 10-wk-old rats, and demonstrated an in vitro response to ATP application via calcium imaging experiments. While whole tissue RT-PCR analysis detected P2Y2, P2Y4, and all 7 subtypes (P2X1 to P2X7) in tooth pulp, single-cell RT-PCR analysis of acutely isolated rat odontoblasts revealed P2Y2, P2Y4, P2X2, P2X4, P2X6, and P2X7 expression in only a subset (23% to 47%) of cells tested, with no evidence for P2X1, P2X3, and P2X5 expression. An increase of intracellular Ca2+ concentration in response to 100μM ATP, which was repeated after pretreatment of thapsigargin or under the Ca2+-free condition, suggested function of both ionotropic and metabotropic ATP receptors in odontoblasts. The enhancement of ATP-induced calcium response by ivermectin and inhibition by 5-(3-bromophenyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-benzofuro[3,2-e]-1,4-diazepin-2-one (5-BDBD) confirmed a functional P2X4 subtype in odontoblasts. Positive calcium response to 2′,3′-O-(benzoyl-4-benzoyl)-ATP (BzATP) and negative response to α,β-methylene ATP suggested P2X2, P2X4, and P2X7 as functional subunits in rat odontoblasts. Single-cell RT-PCR analysis of the cells with confirmed calcium response and immunofluorescent detection further corroborated the expression of P2X4 and P2X7 in odontoblasts. Overall, this study demonstrated heterogeneous expression of calcium-related ATP receptor subtypes in subsets of individual odontoblasts, suggesting extracellular ATP as a potential signal mediator for odontoblastic functions.
Glue sniffing
Authors: Jayanth SH , Hugar Basappa S , Praveen S , Girish Chandra YP
Published: October 2016

Inhalant abuse refers to the inhalation of volatile substances for their euphoric effects. Glues and adhesives have been abused inhalants for decades and so the term “glue sniffing” attached to the habit. These days many substances used are not adhesives and the most accurate title of “solvent abuse” has been given to this widespread and dangerous habit. The various methods of inhalational abuse include huffing, bagging, dusting, glading, and sniffing. We report one such case of a 22-year-old male who was found in an unresponsive state at his residence with a plastic cover around his head and empty tubes of “Fevibond” glue beside him. He died on the way to hospital. At autopsy, conjunctival and visceral congestion were found with pulmonary edema and petechiae over visceral pericardium. The viscera were analyzed, and the presence of toluene in his liver and blood was reported.
Immobilizing hydroxyapatite microparticles on poly(lactic acid) nonwoven scaffolds using layer-by-layer deposition
Authors: Houdali Anssar , Behary Nemeshwaree , Hornez Jean-Christophe , Vroman Philippe , Campagne Christine , Chai Feng
Published: October 2016

A composite porous scaffold for bone cell culture was fabricated by immobilizing HA (hydroxyapatite) (Ca10 (PO4)6 (OH)2) microparticles on PLA (poly(lactic acid)) nonwoven fibers using the layer-by-layer deposition technique. A nonwoven PLA of thickness 1 mm, with average pore size of 230 µm and a porosity of 94%, was used. The nonwoven was functionalized with aqueous 65% deacetylated chitosan followed by rinsing, and then a second padding with aqueous sodium alginate loaded with varying percentages of HA microparticles (0.01%, 0.1% and 0.2%), resulting in a composite porous nonwoven. Sodium alginate was revealed to be an efficient polymer for obtaining a stable dispersion of the HA microparticles in an aqueous medium.

Atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy images, zeta potential and wettability tests showed successfully the different surface modifications occurring at each step of surface functionalization. The chitosan coating cationized the PLA fiber surface, providing good adhesion of the HA-loaded anionic alginate coating. HA was almost homogeneously distributed at the PLA fiber surfaces with only a small reduction in the scaffold porosity, which reached 75%.

The composite PLA/chitosan/alginate/HA nonwoven structures were tested as scaffold for adhesion and proliferation of rat pre-osteoblast MC3T3-E1 cells. The results showed that higher loading with HA improved the MC3T3 cell adhesion and proliferation after 3 and 6 days of culture.
Comparison of clothing thermal comfort properties measured on female and male sweating manikins
Authors: Sun Chao , Fan Jintu
Published: October 2016

Thermal manikins simulating human body’s thermal regulatory system are essential tools for understanding the heat exchange between human body and the environment and also for evaluating the thermal comfort of clothing and near environment. However, most existing thermal manikins adopt a male’s body shape and no sweating female thermal manikin has been reported so far. Furthermore, it is unclear how body shape (viz. male vs female) affects the heat loss and perspiration from the body. We report on a novel female sweating thermal manikin “Wenda”. Thermal properties of the nude body and clothing ensembles measured on “Wenda” are compared with those measured on the male manikin “Walter”. It was found that, although the more curvaceous female body reduces the thermal insulation of the nude manikin, it increases the apparent evaporative resistance at the same time. This may be due to the fact that the more curvaceous female body increases the surface still air layer to add resistance to heat loss by conduction and evaporative water loss by diffusion, and significantly increases the percentage of effective radiative area and the resultant radiative heat loss per unit surface area. It was further shown that clothing thermal insulation and apparent evaporative resistance measured on Wenda are typically 0 ∼ 11% higher than those measured on the male sweating fabric manikin-Walter, probably due to the greater clothing microclimate volume on the female manikin resulting from the looser fitting of the garments on the smaller female body and the more curvaceous surface of the female body.
Historical textiles – a review of microbial deterioration analysis and disinfection methods
Authors: Gutarowska Beata , Pietrzak Katarzyna , Machnowski Waldemar , Milczarek Jakub M
Published: October 2016

All historical textile materials, due to their chemical composition (cellulose, protein), under conditions of high humidity are potentially exposed to microbial degradation. Numerous examples of microbial deterioration of archaeological textile materials demonstrate the need for the use of modern analytical methods for examination of diversity of organisms inhabiting them, as well as an analysis of their behavior. It is recommended that objects with a high degree of microbiological contamination are disinfected before being incorporated to a collection. Today, due to the progress in research on the effects of disinfection on historical material, risks to health and the environment, new methods of disinfection are still being developed. The presented literature review describes the testing methods of microbial deterioration of historical textile materials, including the latest methods for assessing biodiversity (called Next Generation Sequencing) and properties of historical textiles (chemical, microscopic, mechanical). It is particularly suitable for conservators and scientists who are interested in biodeterioration, disinfection technology, and maintenance problems of this type. Characteristics of test methods and disinfection include their application to historical objects, description, advantages, and disadvantages, as well as directions for future studies that aim to even better protect cultural heritage using the latest scientific and technical innovations.
Melamine formaldehyde microcapsules with fragrance core material: Preparation, properties, and end use
Authors: Elesini Urška S , Švarc Jernej , Šumiga Boštjan , Urbas Raša
Published: October 2016

The aim of this research was to prepare and analyze suitable microcapsules for the chosen end use—that is, bow-ties. The produced microcapsules were composed of melamine formaldehyde microcapsules with fragrance oils in the core. Regarding the properties, the surface morphology (studied by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)), thermal properties (measured by Simultaneous Thermal Analysis [STA]), size and size distribution (by SEM and ImageJ software), and release behavior of the microcapsules were analyzed. The microcapsules were further (in two trials) applied with a screen-printing technique to textile materials which were investigated by microscopy (SEM) and tested for thickness, mass per unit area, and crease recovery angle. Finally, the scented bow-ties were designed and a subjective wear test was performed by the participants. According to the results, the prepared microcapsules were undamaged, with a spherical and smooth surface. An impermeable shell enabled the fragrance to be released simply by rupturing the microcapsules. This property was desired, since a stronger release through the permeable shell could be annoying for the wearer. During wear, the fragrance faded, but by rubbing the surface of the bow-tie and consequently rupturing the microcapsules, the release of the fragrance was initiated again, before or after wear.
When and Where to Travel? A Longitudinal Multilevel Investigation on Destination Choice and Demand
Authors: Wong IpKin Anthony , Law Rob , Zhao Xinyuan (Roy)
Published: October 2016

This study aims to reconcile two contrasting research perspectives on tourist decision making. The first perspective contends that tourists are constrained with limited resources and are inhibited to travel, whereas the second perspective contends that tourists search for means to develop a career in traveling and are thereby intrigued to travel to more destinations. This study employs a multilevel design by assessing the relationships of tourist travel frequencies among three outbound markets, namely, in-state, out-of-state domestic, and international markets, through a longitudinal study. By modeling a situational factor—unemployment rate—at the macro level, this study reveals a significant cross-level moderating effect on the relationship between the travel frequencies of domestic and international markets. The findings not only reveal which of these two perspectives is more applicable at a particular situation but also enrich the theories germane to travel career, destination choice, and distance decay.
Adjective Intensification as a Means of Characterization
Authors: Reichelt Susan , Durham Mercedes
Published: October 2016

This paper examines the use of intensifiers on the television show Buffy the Vampire Slayer in order to establish the ways in which they can be used for characterization. We found that the male and female characters used intensifiers differently (similarly to what is found in natural speech), but also that intensifier choice was related to changes in social networks for several of the female characters on the show ( so and totally). Furthermore, intensifiers were also used to distinguish the British characters on the show from the American ones ( extremely, terribly, and bloody). By comparing our results to findings for other television shows ( Friends) and for natural speech, we were able to establish the extent to which the show makes use of (then) innovative linguistic features for characterization. These findings underline the extent to which scriptwriters and/or actors were able to use linguistic features to index specific types of character.
Ten-Year Course of Cosmic Transcendence in Older Adults in the Netherlands
Authors: Braam Arjan W. , Galenkamp Henrike , Derkx Peter , Aartsen Marja J. , Deeg Dorly J. H.
Published: October 2016

Objectives

Gerotranscendence is defined as a transition from a materialistic and rationalistic perspective to a more cosmic and transcendent view of life accompanying the aging process. Would gerotranscendence levels still increase in later life? The current prospective study investigates 10-year trajectories of cosmic transcendence (a core dimension of gerotranscendence).

Methods

Four interview cycles of the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam with 3-year intervals from 1995 to 2006 provide data on cosmic transcendence, demographics (ages 57–85), religiousness, health, sense of mastery, and humor coping. Data are available for 2,257 respondents and 1,533 respondents in multivariate models.

Results

Latent Class Growth Analysis shows three course trajectories of cosmic transcendence: stable high, intermediate with a decrease, and stable low. Higher levels are predicted by age, importance of prayer, Roman Catholic affiliation, a low sense of mastery, higher cognitive ability, and humor coping. Similar results were obtained for the respondents who died during the study ( N = 378).

Discussion

Although levels of cosmic transcendence do not show much change during 10 years of follow-up, the oldest respondents nonetheless attain the highest cosmic transcendence levels. An inclination toward relativism and contemplation may facilitate cosmic transcendence. However, lower cognitive ability probably impairs the development toward cosmic transcendence.
Desistance From Sexual and Other Violent Offending Among Child Sexual Abusers
Authors: Lasher Michael P. , McGrath Robert J.
Published: October 2016

Most sex offenders appear to desist from sexual and other violent offending; however, research on this population has historically focused more on the characteristics of individuals who persist offending versus those who desist from offending. The present study examined change patterns of 563 child sexual abusers’ scores on the Sex Offender Treatment Intervention and Progress Scale, a dynamic risk measure, at three points of time over 2 years. Individuals who did versus did not commit a new serious offense, defined as a new sexual or other violent offense, at 5-year follow-up were contrasted. Desisters demonstrated most changes during their first year in treatment, whereas change among persisters more often occurred during their second year in treatment. All classes of offenders made gains in addressing dynamic risk related to sexually specific needs, whereas desisters made significantly greater gains in social stability needs. Findings are discussed in light of treatment dose allocation and community reentry needs.
The Impact of Deployment on Children From Canadian Military Families
Authors: Skomorovsky Alla , Bullock Amanda
Published: October 2016

Children in military families experience various stressors associated with the demands of military life, such as parental absences due to deployments. However, there is a limited understanding of children’s well-being to parental deployment from Canadian military families. This study was conducted to examine the impact of deployment on the well-being of school age children from Canadian Armed Forces families and to consider the resilience factors in their well-being. Focus groups with children ( N = 85) showed that deployment negatively impacted children’s well-being, routines, and family dynamics. Active distraction and social support seeking served as the most effective protective factors against deployment stress. Recommendations for mitigating the impact of deployment are offered.
Prospect Theory and Civil–Military Conflict
Authors: Winger Gregory
Published: October 2016

This article investigates the potential use of prospect theory to understand civil–military disputes over the use of force. Specifically, I argue that distinct realms of responsibility can lead civilian and military authorities to inhabit different frames of reference when confronting the same crisis. This divergence in perspective causes each to asses risk in fundamentally disparate ways and ultimately produces competing policy recommendations. To illustrate this theory, I analyze the case of the 1976 Korean tree cutting incident. During this crisis, American military authorities define the situation narrowly as pertaining to the Korean peninsula, whereas the civilian leadership viewed it as part of a global challenge to American resolve. As a result, each party weighed the risks of escalation differently and promoted conflicting policy prescriptions.
New insights into informal migrant employment: Hand car washes in a mid-sized English city
Authors: Clark Ian , Colling Trevor
Published: October 2016

This article provides new analytical insight into migrant labour by examining a newly emergent low-margin sector, hand car washes (HCWs). The sector is co-created by pressures from above in the form of economic restructuring and from below by employers and migrants who diffuse fluid and flexible low-wage employment. The diffusion of HCWs demonstrates how exploitative privatized employment generates autonomous economic growth in the unregulated economy. The formal and informal economies are however interlinked and overlapping within and beyond the labour process. Locally, HCWs have the potential to become the established car wash sector, putting regulated outlets in a state of uncertainty as informalization in employment if not business practice becomes the norm.
Effect of Interstitial Fluid Pressure on Ultrasound Axial Strain and Axial Shear Strain Elastography
Authors: Chaudhry Anuj , Kim Namhee , Unnikrishnan Ginu , Nair Sanjay , Reddy J. N. , Righetti Raffaella
Published: October 2016

Ultrasound elastography is an imaging modality that has been used to diagnose tumors of the breast, thyroid, and prostate. Both axial strain elastography and axial shear strain elastography (ASSE) have shown significant potentials to differentiate between benign and malignant tumors. Elevated interstitial fluid pressure (IFP) is a characteristic of many malignant tumors and a major barrier in targeted drug delivery therapies. This parameter, however, has not received significant attention in ultrasound elastography and, in general, in most diagnostic imaging modalities yet. In this paper, we investigate the effect of an underlying IFP contrast on ultrasound axial strain and axial shear strain imaging using finite element analysis. Our results show that an underlying contrast in IFP creates a new contrast mechanism in both the axial strain and axial shear strain elastographic images. This information might be important for a better interpretation of elastographic images of tumors.