bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Whorled Urothelial Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Patriarca Carlo , Comperat Eva , Bollito Enrico , Ussia Agazio , Scola Giovanni , Cavallero Alessandra , Ferrari Lucia , Giunta Paolo , Conti Giario
Published: March 2014

Twelve cases of urothelial cell papillary carcinoma with a whorled pattern of growth are described. This variant is reported with clinicopathological correlations and immunohistochemical findings. All cases showed this peculiar and distinctive curlicue histological pattern, ranging from 50% to 100% of the neoplastic population. Despite the disordered/turbulent growth pattern, the cytological grade was uniformly low. All the lesions were Ta staged and no patient experienced progression after transurethral resection, while 2 showed clinical recurrences. The immunophenotype (low p53, high p27, low Ki67, and high GATA3) of the cases contributes to define this rare variant as a low-grade tumor.
Delayed Remote Ischemic Preconditioning Produces an Additive Cardioprotection to Sevoflurane Postconditioning Through an Enhanced Heme Oxygenase 1 Level Partly Via Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 Nuclear Translocation
Authors: Zhou Chenghui , Li Huatong , Yao Yuntai , Li Lihuan
Published: March 2014

Although both sevoflurane postconditioning (SPoC) and delayed remote ischemic preconditioning (DRIPC) have been proved effective in various animal and human studies, the combined effect of these 2 strategies remains unclear. Therefore, this study was designed to investigate this effect and elucidate the related signal mechanisms in a Langendorff perfused rat heart model. After 30-minute balanced perfusion, isolated hearts were subjected to 30-minute ischemia followed by 60-minute reperfusion except 90-minute perfusion for control. A synergic cardioprotective effect of SPoC (3% v/v) and DRIPC (4 cycles 5-minute occlusion/5-minute reflow at the unilateral hindlimb once per day for 3 days before heart isolation) was observed with facilitated cardiac functional recovery and decreased cardiac enzyme release. The infarct size-limiting effect was more pronounced in the combined group (6.76% ± 2.18%) than in the SPoC group (16.50% ± 4.55%, P < .001) or in the DRIPC group (10.22% ± 2.57%, P = .047). Subsequent analysis revealed that an enhanced heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) expression, but not protein kinase B/AKt or extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 activation, was involved in the synergic cardioprotective effect, which was further confirmed in the messenger RNA level of HO-1. Such trend was also observed in the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) nuclear translocation, an upstream regulation of HO-1. In addition, correlation analysis showed a significantly positive relationship between HO-1 expression and Nrf2 translocation ( r = 0.729, P < .001). Hence, we conclude that DRIPC may produce an additive cardioprotection to SPoC through an enhanced HO-1 expression partly via Nrf2 translocation.
The Beneficial Effects of Ranolazine on Cardiac Function After Myocardial Infarction Are Greater in Diabetic Than in Nondiabetic Rats
Authors: Mourouzis Iordanis , Mantzouratou Polixeni , Galanopoulos Georgios , Kostakou Erietta , Dhalla Arvinder K. , Belardinelli Luiz , Pantos Constantinos
Published: March 2014

Ranolazine (RAN) is known to exert both anti-ischemic and antidiabetic actions. Thus, this study has explored the hypothesis that RAN would have greater effect on the recovery of cardiac function in diabetic mellitus (DM) rat hearts following myocardial infarction (MI). Myocardial infarction was induced in nondiabetic (MI, n = 14) and diabetic (streptozotocin induced; DM-MI, n = 13) Wistar rats by permanent ligation of the left coronary artery. Cardiac function was evaluated using echocardiography (left ventricular ejection fraction %) and in isolated heart preparations by measuring left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP), and the positive and negative first derivative of LVDP (±dp/dt). Ranolazine (20 mg/kg, ip once a day) was administered 24 hours after surgical procedure for 4 weeks to nondiabetic (MI + RAN, n = 17) and diabetic rats (DM-MI + RAN, n = 15). The RAN improved the recovery of function in both the nondiabetic and the diabetic postinfarcted hearts but this effect was greater and achieved statistical significance only in the diabetic group. The RAN resulted in increased levels of phosphorylated protein kinase B (Akt) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR, a component of Akt signaling) in both nondiabetic and diabetic infarcted hearts without changes in the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs; p38 MAPK, c-Jun N-terminal kinase, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase). In addition, in diabetic hearts, RAN resulted in a significant increase in the ratio of sarcoplasmic Ca2+-ATPase/phospholamban (a target of Akt signaling, 2.0-fold increase) and increased levels of phosphorylated calcium-regulated adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK; 2.0-fold increase). In diabetic animals, RAN increased insulin and lowered glucose levels in serum. In conclusion, the beneficial effect of RAN on the recovery of cardiac function after MI was greater in DM rats. This response was associated with activation of Akt/mTOR and AMPK. These findings provide a plausible explanation for the results of the Type 2 Diabetes Evaluation of Ranolazine in Subjects With Chronic Stable Angina (TERISA) trial, which showed a greater antianginal effect of RAN in patients with coronary artery disease and diabetes.
Comparative Biochemical and Functional Studies on a Branded Human Recombinant Factor VIIa and a Biosimilar Equivalent Product
Authors: Sadeghi Nasiredin , Kahn Daniel , Syed Daneyal , Iqbal Omer , Abro Schuharazad , Eshraghi Reza , Hoppensteadt Debra , Fareed Jawed
Published: March 2014

Recombinant factor VIIa (rFVIIa; NovoSeven, Novo Nordisk, Copenhagen, Denmark) is used to control bleeding in patients with hemophilia. A generic version of FVIIa was developed by AryoGen (Tehran, Iran). This study compared the composition and functional activities of AryoSeven and NovoSeven. Each product was compared at equigravimetric (1 mg/mL) stock solution for protein content. The proteomic profile was obtained using surface-enhanced laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) analysis was carried out to determine the protein profile and Western blotting was performed using a polyclonal rabbit antihuman FVIIa antibody. The FVIIa-related antigen was also measured using a commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. Functional assay included the prothrombin time correction in FVII-deficient plasma. The protein content was comparable in 2 products and the mass spectra analysis showed a single peak at 50 kDa in all products. The SDS-PAGE and immunoblotting studies were comparable. Both products exhibited similar coagulant properties in different assays.
Natural frequencies and mode shapes of variable thickness elastic cylindrical shells resting on a Pasternak foundation
Authors: Ahmed Mousa Khalifa
Published: March 2014

According to the framework of the Flügge’s shell theory, the Winkler and Pasternak foundations model, the transfer matrix approach and the Romberg integration method, the vibration behavior of an isotropic and orthotropic cylindrical shell with variable thickness is investigated. The governing equations of the shell based on the Pasternak foundation model are formulated and solved. The analysis is formulated to overcome the mathematical difficulties related to mode coupling which comes from the variable curvature and thickness of the shell. The vibration equations of the shell are reduced to eight first order differential equations in the circumferential coordinate. Using the transfer matrix of the shell, these equations can be written in a matrix differential equation. The proposed model is adopted to get the vibration frequencies and the corresponding mode shapes for the symmetrical and antisymmetrical modes of vibration. The sensitivity of the frequency parameters and the bending deformations to the Winkler and Pasternak foundations moduli, the thickness ratio, and the orthotropic parameters are demonstrated.
Sustainable community movement organisations
Authors: Forno Francesca , Graziano Paolo R
Published: March 2014

In the current economic crisis, social movements are simultaneously facing two types of challenges: first, they are confronting institutions which are less able (or willing) to mediate new demands for social justice and equity emerging from various sectors of society, and second, given the highly individualised structure of contemporary society, they are also experiencing difficulties in building bonds of solidarity and cooperation among people, bonds which are a fundamental resource for collective action. It is in this context that protests waves, which may be very relevant, are in fact often short-lived, and it is in this context that we detect the rise and consolidation of new mutualistic and cooperative experiences within which (similarly to the past) new ties and frames for collective action are created. This article discusses and analyses social movement organisations which focus on both the intensification of economic problems and the difficulties of rebuilding social bonds and solidarity within society, emphasising solidarity and the use of ‘alternative’ forms of consumption as means to re-embed the economic system within social relations, starting from the local level. While discussing what is new and/or what has been renewed in new Sustainable Community Movement Organisations, the article will develop an analytical framework which will combine social movements and political consumerism theories by focusing on two basic dimensions: consumer culture and identity and organisational resources and repertoire of action.
Voluntary simplifiers as political consumers: Individuals practicing politics through reduced consumption
Authors: Zamwel Einat , Sasson-Levy Orna , Ben-Porat Guy
Published: March 2014

This article seeks to contribute to the discourse on the politicization of voluntary simplifiers’ consumption patterns. Some scholars argue that voluntary simplifiers’ consumption practices are individualistic and escapist in nature, and therefore cannot be defined as political, and that they are likely to become such only if they organize for collective action. Conversely, we argue that voluntary simplifiers’ lifestyle is an individual political choice that should be analyzed using theories of political consumption. This article, based on interviews with voluntary simplifiers in Israel, identifies four characteristics of voluntary simplifiers that attest to their political nature: (1) multidimensional political discourse, (2) embracement of a holistic and uncompromising lifestyle of simplicity, (3) lifestyle changes as ongoing political process, and (4) the desire to exert influence. We therefore argue that voluntary simplifiers are not only political, but they represent a clear-cut instance of noninstitutionalized political activity realized through individual practices in the private realm.
Against ‘permanent sovereignty’ over natural resources
Authors: Armstrong Chris
Published: March 2014

The doctrine of permanent sovereignty over natural resources is a hugely consequential one in the contemporary world, appearing to grant nation-states both jurisdiction-type rights and rights of ownership over the resources to be found in their territories. But the normative justification for that doctrine is far from clear. This article elucidates the best arguments that might be made for permanent sovereignty, including claims from national improvement of or attachment to resources, as well as functionalist claims linking resource rights to key state functions. But it also shows that these defences are insufficient to justify permanent sovereignty and that in many cases they actually count against it as a practice. They turn out to be compatible, furthermore, with the dispersal of resource rights away from the nation-state which global justice appears to demand.
Ideological traces in plans for compact cities: Is neo-liberalism hegemonic?
Authors: Sager Tore
Published: March 2014

The aim is to study how ideologies come through in urban regeneration plans. Neo-liberalism, participatory democracy and environmentalism are systems of ideas competing for the minds of citizens in large parts of the world. Typical urban policies linked to each ideology are listed to provide a basis for identifying features of development plans that reflect aspirations for an entrepreneurial, green or open and inclusive society. A case study from Trondheim, Norway, maps ideological traces in waterfront development plans. The central question to be addressed is whether the internationally widespread allegations of neo-liberal hegemony over urban plans are reasonable. In light of the case data, it can be questioned whether neo-liberal ideology, although influential, is hegemonic in the plans. This doubt lingers, even if the chosen case Nedre Elvehavn is the kind of large-scale transformation of former dockyards close to the central business district that is often regarded as prototypical neo-liberal development in academic planning literature.
Promising Role of ANGPTL4 Gene in Diabetic Wound Healing
Authors: Arya Awadhesh K. , Tripathi Kamlakar , Das Parimal
Published: March 2014

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the severe metabolic disorders of carbohydrate metabolism worldwide. Developing countries are at higher risk of DM, and there is significant evidence that it is epidemic in many economically developing and newly industrialized countries. Among all other complications associated with DM, delayed wound healing is a major concern in diabetic patients. Wound healing is a natural healing process that starts immediately after injury. This involves interaction of a complex cascade of cellular events that generates resurfacing, reconstitution, and restoration of the tensile strength of injured skin. There are multiple factors responsible for delayed wound healing among which the contribution of DM has been well documented. The wound healing process is also delayed by the metabolic, vascular, neurological, and inflammatory alterations, which are well known in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Keratinocytes are crucial for wound re-epithelialization, and defects in directed migration of keratinocytes due to DM are associated with the delayed wound healing process. Many factors responsible for re-epithelialization have been identified, characterized, and well described; however, the genes responsible for the healing process have only partially been illustrated. This article will therefore focus on the efficacy of ANGPTL4 (angiopoietin-like 4) gene, which plays a novel role in keratinocyte migration during wound healing.
Pharmacological Evaluation and Chemical Standardization of an Ayurvedic Formulation for Wound Healing Activity
Authors: Gangopadhyay Karuna Sagar , Khan Madhuchanda , Pandit Srikanta , Chakrabarti Shrabana , Mondal Tapan Kumar , Biswas Tuhin Kanti
Published: March 2014

Wound healing is a topic of substantial prominence in Ayurveda, the Indian traditional system of medicine. Test drug Kshatantak Malam (KM), otherwise named as Baharer Nani, is described in Ayurveda since a long time for wound healing activity but necessitates scientific base. The test drug was prepared in the form of natural ointment with the plants like Achyranthes aspera, Allium cepa, and Canabis sativa under the base of butter in a specialized form of preparation. Chemical standardization was made on the basis of the physical character, rancidity test, extractive value, thin-layer chromatography, and gas chromatography. An 8-mm-diameter full-thickness punch was produced in Wistar rats. The test drug was applied topically and compared with standard comparators like framycetin ointment and povidone iodine ointment. Effects were observed on the basis of physical parameters like wound contraction size (mm2), wound index, healing period (days), tensile strength (g) and biochemical parameters like tissue DNA (mg/g), RNA (mg/g), total protein (mg/g), hydroxyproline (mg/g), PAGE study, and histopathological observations. Significant results ( P < .05) were observed with KM in the punch wound model on the basis of various physical, biochemical, and histopathological parameters. The drug was found to be safe in acute and chronic toxicity models in animals. Chemically it is enriched with fatty substances.
Reducing Major Lower Extremity Amputations After the Introduction of a Multidisciplinary Team for the Diabetic Foot
Authors: Rubio José Antonio , Aragón-Sánchez Javier , Jiménez Sara , Guadalix Gregorio , Albarracín Agustín , Salido Carmen , Sanz-Moreno José , Ruiz-Grande Fernando , Gil-Fournier Nuria , Álvarez Julia
Published: March 2014

We analyzed the incidence of lower extremity amputations (LEAs) in the 3rd Health Care Area of Madrid before and after the March 2008 introduction of a multidisciplinary team for managing diabetic foot disease. We compared the amputation rates in people with and without diabetes during 2 periods: before (2001-2007) and after (2008-2011) the introduction of a Multidisciplinary Diabetic Foot Unit (MDFU). We also analyzed the trend of the amputation rates by joinpoint regression analysis and measured the annual percentage change (APC). During the study period, 514 nontraumatic LEAs were performed, 374 (73%) in people with diabetes and 140 (27%) in people without the disease. The incidence of LEAs showed a significant reduction in major amputations in people with diabetes, from 6.1 per 100 000 per year (95% confidence interval [CI] = 4.9 to 7.2), in the 2001 to 2007 period, to 4.0 per 100 000 per year (95% CI = 2.6 to 5.5) in the 2008 to 2011 period ( P = .020). There were no changes in incidence of minor or total amputations in the diabetic population or in amputations in the nondiabetic population during the study period. Joinpoint regression analysis showed a significant reduction in the incidence of major LEAs in diabetic population with an APC of −6.6% (95% CI = −10.2 to −2.8; P = .003), but there were no other significant changes. This study demonstrates that the introduction of a multidisciplinary team, coordinated by an endocrinologist and a podiatrist, for managing diabetic foot disease is associated with a reduction in the incidence of major amputations in patients with diabetes.
Impairment of aldehyde dehydrogenase-2 by 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal adduct formation and cardiomyocyte hypertrophy in mice fed a high-fat diet and injected with low-dose streptozotocin
Authors: Mali Vishal R , Ning Ruizhuo , Chen Jieli , Yang Xiao-Ping , Xu Jiang , Palaniyandi Suresh S
Published: March 2014

Reactive aldehydes such as 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4HNE) are generated in the myocardium in cardiac disease. 4HNE and other toxic aldehydes form adducts with proteins, leading to cell damage and organ dysfunction. Aldehyde dehydrogenases (ALDHs) metabolize toxic aldehydes such as 4HNE into nontoxic metabolites. Both ALDH levels and activity are reduced in cardiac disease. We examined whether reduced ALDH2 activity contributes to cardiomyocyte hypertrophy in mice fed a high-fat diet and injected with low-dose streptozotocin (STZ). These mice exhibited most of the characteristics of metabolic syndrome/type-2 diabetes mellitus (DM): increased blood glucose levels depicting hyperglycemia (415.2 ± 18.7 mg/dL vs. 265.2 ± 7.6 mg/dL; P < 0.05), glucose intolerance with normal plasma insulin levels, suggesting insulin resistance and obesity as evident from increased weight (44 ± 3.1 vs. 34.50 ± 1.32 g; P < 0.05) and body fat. Myocardial ALDH2 activity was 60% lower in these mice (0.1 ± 0.012 vs. 0.04 ± 0.015 µmol/min/mg protein; P < 0.05). Myocardial 4HNE levels were also elevated in the hyperglycemic hearts. Co-immunoprecipitation study showed that 4HNE formed adducts on myocardial ALDH2 protein in the mice exhibiting metabolic syndrome/type-2 DM, and they had obvious cardiac hypertrophy compared with controls as evident from increased heart weight (HW), HW to tibial length ratio, left ventricular (LV) mass and cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Cardiomyocyte hypertrophy was correlated inversely with ALDH2 activity ( R2 = 0.7; P < 0.05). Finally, cardiac dysfunction was observed in mice with metabolic syndrome/type-2 DM. Therefore, we conclude that reduced ALDH2 activity may contribute to cardiac hypertrophy and dysfunction in mice presenting with some of the characteristics of metabolic syndrome/type-2 DM when on a high-fat diet and low-dose STZ injection.
Case Series of First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Injuries in Division 1 College Athletes
Authors: Faltus John , Mullenix Kerry , Moorman Claude T. , Beatty Kyle , Easley Mark E.
Published: March 2014

Context:

Injuries of the first metatarsophalangeal (hallux MP) joint can be debilitating in the athletic population. Turf toe and plantar plate injuries are typically diagnosed similarly. However, variance in injury mechanism as well as compromised integrity of soft tissue and ligamentous structures make it difficult to accurately diagnose specific hallux MP injuries. Recent literature has supported the use of both radiographic imaging and the Lachman test as reliable indicators of joint instability in the presence of hallux MP injuries. To date, research supporting specific rehabilitation interventions and return-to-play decision making for hallux MP injuries has been limited to case studies and suggested guidelines from literature reviews. There is limited evidence suggesting specific criteria for surgical and nonsurgical decision making in conjunction with rehabilitation progressions to return an athlete to sport when managing hallux MP injuries.

Evidence Acquisition:

A literature search was performed using Medline, PubMed, and Google Scholar to find and review articles from 1970 to 2013 that addressed the basic anatomy of the plantar plate, injuries to this anatomical structure, and the evaluation, diagnosis, surgical and nonsurgical management, and rehabilitation of these injuries, specifically in the athletic population. Medical information for each case was gathered from electronic medical records from the individual athletes cited in this case series, which included imaging reports, rehabilitation documentation, and both evaluation and surgical reports. No statistical analysis was used.

Study Design:

Case series.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Results:

Treatment plans for each case varied depending on surgical and nonsurgical intervention and rehabilitation outcomes. However, each athlete was able to return to sports-specific activities.

Conclusion:

Successful outcomes for hallux MP injuries are contingent on thorough evaluation, appropriate clinical decision making with regard to surgical versus nonsurgical treatment planning, and a multidisciplinary team approach for ensuring a safe return to sport.

Strength-of-Recommendation Taxonomy (SORT):

C.
Effects of Avatar Race in Violent Video Games on Racial Attitudes and Aggression
Authors: Yang Grace S. , Gibson Bryan , Lueke Adam K. , Huesmann L. Rowell , Bushman Brad J.
Published: March 2014

The media often link Black characters and violence. This is especially true in video games, in which Black male characters are virtually always violent. This research tested the effects of playing a violent game as a Black (vs. White) avatar on racial stereotypes and aggression. In Experiment 1, White participants ( N = 126) who played a violent video game as a Black avatar displayed stronger implicit and explicit negative attitudes toward Blacks than did participants who played a violent video game as a White avatar or a nonviolent game as a Black or White avatar. In Experiment 2, White participants ( N = 141) who played a violent video game as a Black (vs. White) avatar displayed stronger implicit attitudes linking Blacks to weapons. Implicit attitudes, in turn, related to subsequent aggression. Black violent video game avatars not only make players more aggressive than do White avatars, they also reinforce stereotypes that Blacks are violent.
The Exploration of Political Conflicts and Personal Relationships in Ian McEwan’s The Innocent
Authors: Abbasiyannejad Mina , Talif Rosli
Published: March 2014

Political conflicts have historically affected the relationships of nations. Ian McEwan’s The Innocent is an excellent example of a story set within the web of such a conflict—the Cold War—that was brought about by U.S. and Soviet confrontation over spheres of influence after the Second World War. This article aims to show how Ian McEwan pictures Americanization as a form of cultural politics aimed at spreading American influence throughout the occupied countries such as Germany for political domination. Max Weber’s theory of political power along with semiotics as a tool is the framework of the article. Signs that refer to the Americanization process, including inferences in the dialogues, gestures, choice of food, and even clothing, are scrutinized and interpreted within the socio-political context the of Cold War. The analysis of The Innocent provides an example of the ways in which fiction represents political conflicts permeating personal and intimate relationships, and how such conflicts may result in a sense of mistrust and intrigue among both people and nations.
Rate of and Predicting Factors for Virologic Failure in HIV-Infected Patients with Persistent Low-Level Viremia under Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Charuratananon Sastra , Sungkanuparph Somnuek
Published: March 2014

To determine the rate of and predicting factors for virologic failure among HIV-infected patients with persistent low-level viremia (PLV) under antiretroviral therapy (ART), a retrospective cohort study was conducted among HIV-infected patients who experienced PLV under ART. Persistent low-level viremia was defined as HIV RNA level at 50 to 1000 copies/mL for at least 2 consecutive visits. Of 68 patients, mean ± standard deviation age was 35.2 ± 9.0 years and 64.7% were males. Median (interquartile range [IQR]) CD4 count was 94 (26-264) cells/mm3 and baseline HIV RNA was 112 000 (1 090-461 500) copies/mL. During the median (IQR) follow-up period of 5.7 (3.4-10.3) years of ART, the rate of virologic failure was 38.2%. In multivariate analyses, only maximum amplitude of HIV RNA >400 copies/mL during PLV (hazard ratio = 5.668; 95% confidence interval, 1.888-17.014; P = .002) significantly predicted virologic failure. Patients with PLV >400 copies/mL are more likely to develop virologic failure and should be closely monitored. Interventional studies to prevent virologic failure in these patients are needed.
Surgery for Patients With Recalcitrant Plantar Fasciitis
Authors: Wheeler Patrick , Boyd Kevin , Shipton Mary
Published: March 2014

Background:

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of foot pain, and although many episodes are self-limiting with short duration, 10% leave chronic symptoms. Recalcitrant cases can be managed surgically, with studies demonstrating good results in the short term but uncertainties over longer term outcomes.

Purpose:

To assess the outcome following surgical intervention for patients with plantar fasciitis.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Seventy-nine patients were identified from operative diaries undergoing plantar fasciotomy surgery between 1993 and 2009. They were contacted to investigate long-term results using self-reported outcome measures.

Results:

Sixty-eight responses were received (86% response rate), with an average of 7 years (range, 1-15 years) of follow-up. Patients reported an average reduction in pain by visual analog scale of 79%, and 84% of patients were happy with the surgical results. Greater success was achieved in patients with shorter duration of symptoms preoperatively. No deterioration in success was seen over time.

Conclusion:

Plantar fasciotomy surgery for plantar fasciitis remains controversial, with biomechanical arguments against surgery; however, this article reports good success following surgery over a long follow-up period. The results of current operative techniques need to be fully investigated for longer term success, as do the outcomes of newer nonoperative management strategies.
Materiality, Technology, and Constructing Social Knowledge through Bodily Representation: A View from Prehistoric Guernsey, Channel Islands
Authors: Kohring Sheila
Published: March 2014

The role of the human body in the creation of social knowledge—as an ontological and/or aesthetic category—has been applied across social theory. In all these approaches, the body is viewed as a locus for experience and knowledge. If the body is a source of subjective knowledge, then it can also become an important means of creating ontological categories of self and society. The materiality of human representations within art traditions, then, can be interpreted as providing a means for contextualizing and aestheticizing the body in order to produce a symbolic and structural knowledge category. This paper explores the effect of material choices and techniques of production when representing the human body on how societies order and categorize the world.
Effect of electrospark deposited surface layers on bond strength of titanium–porcelain
Authors: Xue J. Q. , Dang L. T. , Zhang J. , Tang C. B. , Gao Y. , Gao B.
Published: March 2014

Casting of titanium can be successfully used in prosthodontic applications, but it demands special machines and protection gas to avoid oxidation of the metal. The aims of this study are to investigate the bond compatibility between porcelain and titanium using three-point bending, oxide adherence and thermal expansion tests, and to compare the results with those of a conventional titanium–porcelain system. Titanium alloy surfaces were modified with Nb, YG8 and silicon electrode by electrospark surface modification process. The effect of electrospark surface depositing (ESD) layers on bond strength of titanium to porcelain was evaluated comparatively. Some reasons about bond strength of titanium to porcelain were discussed. Results indicate that ESD modified layer prepared in atmosphere using Si electrode can obtain the strongest bonding to porcelain. The ESD modified layer show metallurgical bond to Ti substrate. In addition, the facts that rough surface can help to improve physic bond, similar nature can also help to chemical link and compact ESD layer represent good high temperature oxidation resistance are the reasons that enhance good bond strength of titanium to porcelain.
Overlapping tracks processed by TIG melting TiC preplaced powder on low alloy steel surfaces
Authors: Mridha S. , Baker T. N.
Published: March 2014

An overlapping composite track coating was produced on a steel surface by preplacing a 0·5 mm thick layer of TiC powder and then melting using a tungsten inert gas torch of constant energy input. The influence of the overlapping operation on preheating of the substrate, the dissolution of TiC particulates and the subsequent depth and hardness of the composite layer was analysed. The melt microstructure consisted of both undissolved and partially dissolved TiC particulates, together with a variety of morphologies and sizes of TiC particles precipitated during solidification. Preheating, resulting from the overlapping operation, occurred, producing additional melting of the TiC particulates and deeper melt depths but with a reduced volume fraction of TiC precipitates in the subsequent tracks. A maximum hardness of over 800 HV was developed in the composite layer. The high hardness was unevenly distributed in tracks melted at the initial and final stages, while it varied across the melt depths in other tracks.
Somatic activating ARAF mutations in Langerhans cell histiocytosis
Authors: Nelson David S. , Quispel Willemijn , Badalian-Very Gayane , van Halteren Astrid G. S. , van den Bos Cor , Bovée Judith V. M. G. , Tian Sara Y. , Van Hummelen Paul , Ducar Matthew , MacConaill Laura E. , Egeler R. Maarten , Rollins Barrett J.
Published: March 2014

Key Points

Whole exome sequencing reveals novel mutations in ARAF that activate the kinase and are inhibitable by vemurafenib in a patient with LCH. Requiring the presence of BRAF V600E in LCH to qualify for rat fibrosarcoma inhibitor treatment may be overly exclusionary.
CD16xCD33 bispecific killer cell engager (BiKE) activates NK cells against primary MDS and MDSC CD33+ targets
Authors: Gleason Michelle K. , Ross Julie A. , Warlick Erica D. , Lund Troy C. , Verneris Michael R. , Wiernik Andres , Spellman Stephen , Haagenson Michael D. , Lenvik Alexander J. , Litzow Mark R. , Epling-Burnette Pearlie K. , Blazar Bruce R. , Weiner Louis M. , Weisdorf Daniel J. , Vallera Daniel A. , Miller Jeffrey S.
Published: March 2014

Key Points

NK cells and their expression of FcRγIII (CD16) are decreased in MDS and inversely correlate with a substantial increase in MDSCs. CD16xCD33 BiKE potently activates blood and marrow MDS-NK cells at all diseases stages to lyse CD33+ MDS and CD33+ MDSC targets.
Glycophorin C (CD236R) mediates vivax malaria parasite rosetting to normocytes
Authors: Lee Wenn-Chyau , Malleret Benoit , Lau Yee-Ling , Mauduit Marjorie , Fong Mun-Yik , Cho Jee Sun , Suwanarusk Rossarin , Zhang Rou , Albrecht Letusa , Costa Fabio T. M. , Preiser Peter , McGready Rose , Renia Laurent , Nosten Francois , Russell Bruce
Published: March 2014

Key Points

P vivax infected cells rosette exclusively to normocytes. Thus, rosetting does not directly facilitate P vivax merozoite invasion. Glycophorin C (CD236R) mediates vivax malaria parasite rosetting. This finding will help in the search for the P vivax rosette ligand.
Objective responses in relapsed T-cell lymphomas with single-agent brentuximab vedotin
Authors: Horwitz Steven M. , Advani Ranjana H. , Bartlett Nancy L. , Jacobsen Eric D. , Sharman Jeff P. , O’Connor Owen A. , Siddiqi Tanya , Kennedy Dana A. , Oki Yasuhiro
Published: March 2014

Key Points

Objective responses observed with brentuximab vedotin in 41% of patients with relapsed T-cell lymphomas, including 54% of AITL patients. Objective responses observed across a wide range of CD30 expression, including undetectable CD30 expression per central review.
Alpha-enolase as a potential cancer prognostic marker promotes cell growth, migration, and invasion in glioma
Authors: Song Ye , Luo Qisheng , Long Hao , Hu Zheng , Que Tianshi , Zhang Xi’an , Li Zhiyong , Wang Gang , Yi Liu , Liu Zhen , Fang WeiYi , Qi Songtao
Published: March 2014

Background

The success of using glycolytic inhibitors for cancer treatment relies on better understanding the roles of each frequently deregulated glycolytic genes in cancer. This report analyzed the involvement of a key glycolytic enzyme, alpha-enolase (ENO1), in tumor progression and prognosis of human glioma.

Methods

ENO1 expression levels were examined in glioma tissues and normal brain (NB) tissues. The molecular mechanisms of ENO1 expression and its effects on cell growth, migration and invasion were also explored by 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, Transwell chamber assay, Boyden chamber assay, Western blot and in vivo tumorigenesis in nude mice.

Results

ENO1 mRNA and protein levels were upregulated in glioma tissues compared to NB. In addition, increased ENO1 was associated disease progression in glioma samples. Knocking down ENO1 expression not only significantly decreased cell proliferation, but also markedly inhibited cell migration and invasion as well as in vivo tumorigenesis. Mechanistic analyses revealed that Cyclin D1, Cyclin E1, pRb, and NF-κB were downregulated after stable ENO1 knockdown in glioma U251 and U87 cells. Conversely, knockdown of ENO1 resulted in restoration of E-cadherin expression and suppression of mesenchymal cell markers, such as Vimentin, Snail, N-Cadherin, β-Catenin and Slug. Furthermore, ENO1 suppression inactivated PI3K/Akt pathway regulating the cell growth and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) progression.

Conclusion

Overexpression of ENO1 is associated with glioma progression. Knockdown of ENO1 expression led to suppressed cell growth, migration and invasion progression by inactivating the PI3K/Akt pathway in glioma cells.
Growth mechanisms of MgO nanocrystals via a sol-gel synthesis using different complexing agents
Authors: Mastuli Mohd Sufri , Kamarulzaman Norlida , Nawawi Mohd Azizi , Mahat Annie Maria , Rusdi Roshidah , Kamarudin Norashikin
Published: March 2014

In the preparation of nanostructured materials, it is important to optimize synthesis parameters in order to obtain the desired material. This work investigates the role of complexing agents, oxalic acid and tartaric acid, in the production of MgO nanocrystals. Results from simultaneous thermogravimetric analysis (STA) show that the two different synthesis routes yield precursors with different thermal profiles. It is found that the thermal profiles of the precursors can reveal the effects of crystal growth during thermal annealing. X-ray diffraction confirms that the final products are pure, single phase and of cubic shape. It is also found that complexing agents can affect the rate of crystal growth. The structures of the oxalic acid and tartaric acid as well as the complexation sites play very important roles in the formation of the nanocrystals. The complexing agents influence the rate of growth which affects the final crystallite size of the materials. Surprisingly, it is also found that oxalic acid and tartaric acid act as surfactants inhibiting crystal growth even at a high temperature of 950°C and a long annealing time of 36 h. The crystallite formation routes are proposed to be via linear and branched polymer networks due to the different structures of the complexing agents.
A robust cooperative spectrum sensing scheme based on Dempster-Shafer theory and trustworthiness degree calculation in cognitive radio networks
Authors: Wang Jinlong , Feng Shuo , Wu Qihui , Zheng Xueqiang , Xu Yuhua , Ding Guoru
Published: March 2014

Cognitive radio (CR) is a promising technology that brings about remarkable improvement in spectrum utilization. To tackle the hidden terminal problem, cooperative spectrum sensing (CSS) which benefits from the spatial diversity has been studied extensively. Since CSS is vulnerable to the attacks initiated by malicious secondary users (SUs), several secure CSS schemes based on Dempster-Shafer theory have been proposed. However, the existing works only utilize the current difference of SUs, such as the difference in SNR or similarity degree, to evaluate the trustworthiness of each SU. As the current difference is only one-sided and sometimes inaccurate, the statistical information contained in each SU's historical behavior should not be overlooked. In this article, we propose a robust CSS scheme based on Dempster-Shafer theory and trustworthiness degree calculation. It is carried out in four successive steps, which are basic probability assignment (BPA), trustworthiness degree calculation, selection and adjustment of BPA, and combination by Dempster-Shafer rule, respectively. Our proposed scheme evaluates the trustworthiness degree of SUs from both current difference aspect and historical behavior aspect and exploits Dempster-Shafer theory's potential to establish a ‘soft update’ approach for the reputation value maintenance. It can not only differentiate malicious SUs from honest ones based on their historical behaviors but also reserve the current difference for each SU to achieve a better real-time performance. Abundant simulation results have validated that the proposed scheme outperforms the existing ones under the impact of different attack patterns and different number of malicious SUs.
Vpx complementation of ‘non-macrophage tropic’ R5 viruses reveals robust entry of infectious HIV-1 cores into macrophages
Authors: Mlcochova Petra , Watters Sarah A , Towers Greg J , Noursadeghi Mahdad , Gupta Ravindra K
Published: March 2014

Background

It is now known that clinically derived viruses are most commonly R5 tropic with very low infectivity in macrophages. As these viruses utilize CD4 inefficiently, defective entry has been assumed to be the dominant restriction. The implication is that macrophages are not an important reservoir for the majority of circulating viruses.

Results

Macrophage infection by clinical transmitted/founder isolates was 10-100 and 30-450 fold less efficient as compared to YU-2 and BaL respectively. Vpx complementation augmented macrophage infection by non-macrophage tropic viruses to the level of infectivity observed for YU-2 in the absence of Vpx. Augmentation was evident even when Vpx was provided 24 hours post-infection. The entry defect was measured as 2.5-5 fold, with a further 3.5-10 fold block at strong stop and subsequent stages of reverse transcription as compared to YU-2. The overall block to infection was critically dependent on the mechanism of entry as demonstrated by rescue of infection after pseudotyping with VSV-G envelope. Reverse transcription in macrophages could not be enhanced using a panel of cytokines or lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

Conclusions

Although the predominant block to clinical transmitted/founder viruses is post-entry, infectivity is determined by Env-CD4 interactions and can be rescued with VSV-G pseudotyping. This suggests a functional link between the optimal entry pathway taken by macrophage tropic viruses and downstream events required for reverse transcription. Consistent with a predominantly post-entry block, replication of R5 using viruses can be greatly enhanced by Vpx. We conclude therefore that entry is not the limiting step and that macrophages represent clinically relevant reservoirs for ‘non-macrophage tropic’ viruses.
The IZA evaluation dataset survey: a scientific use file
Authors: Arni Patrick , Caliendo Marco , Künn Steffen , Zimmermann Klaus F
Published: March 2014

This reference paper describes the sampling and contents of the IZA Evaluation Dataset Survey and outlines its vast potential for research in labor economics. The data have been part of a unique IZA project to connect administrative data from the German Federal Employment Agency with innovative survey data to study the out-mobility of individuals to work. This study makes the survey available to the research community as a Scientific Use File by explaining the development, structure, and access to the data. Furthermore, it also summarizes previous findings with the survey data.

JEL codes

C81; H43; J68
Increased expression of Mer tyrosine kinase in circulating dendritic cells and monocytes of lupus patients: correlations with plasma interferon activity and steroid therapy
Authors: Hilliard Brendan A , Zizzo Gaetano , Ulas Mehriban , Linan Margaret K , Schreiter Jessica , Cohen Philip L
Published: March 2014

Introduction

The requirement for the immunoregulatory Mer tyrosine kinase (Mer) for optimal removal of apoptotic cells prompted us to look at its expression in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), in which apoptotic cell clearance is abnormal. We compared the levels of expression of Mer in normal human subjects and in patients with SLE.

Methods

We used flow cytometry of isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells to compare the levels of Mer on leukocyte subsets. We used a Mer-specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to quantify soluble Mer (sMer) in plasmas.

Results

Monocytes, CD1c+ myeloid dendritic cells (mDCs), and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) from both normal individuals and from SLE patients expressed Mer. In both normal and SLE patients, the CD14++CD16+ subpopulation of monocytes expressed the highest levels of Mer, with somewhat lower levels on the CD14intCD16+ population. Mer levels on CD1c+ mDCs and pDCs, and sMer levels in blood were increased in SLE patients compared with controls. In patients, Mer levels on CD14intCD16+, CD14++CD16- monocytes, and CD1c+ dendritic cells correlated positively with type I interferon (IFN-I) activity detected in blood. In SLE patients treated with corticosteroids, Mer expression on monocytes correlated with prednisone dose, CD1c+ myeloid dendritic cells in patients treated with prednisone had higher levels of Mer expression than those in patients not receiving prednisone.

Conclusions

We found no global defect in Mer expression in lupus blood. In contrast, we observed increased levels of Mer expression in DC populations, which could represent a response to increased IFN-I in SLE patients. Enhanced Mer expression induced by corticosteroids may contribute to its beneficial effects in SLE.
Human monocytes respond to extracellular cAMP through A2A and A2B adenosine receptors
Authors: Sciaraffia Ester , Riccomi Antonella , Lindstedt Ragnar , Gesa Valentina , Cirelli Elisa , Patrizio Mario , De Magistris Maria Teresa , Vendetti Silvia
Published: March 2014

In this study, we test the hypothesis that cAMP, acting as an extracellular mediator, affects the physiology and function of human myeloid cells. The cAMP is a second messenger recognized as a universal regulator of several cellular functions in different organisms. Many studies have shown that extracellular cAMP exerts regulatory functions, acting as first mediator in multiple tissues. However, the impact of extracellular cAMP on cells of the immune system has not been fully investigated. We found that human monocytes exposed to extracellular cAMP exhibit higher expression of CD14 and lower amount of MHC class I and class II molecules. When cAMP-treated monocytes are exposed to proinflammatory stimuli, they exhibit an increased production of IL-6 and IL-10 and a lower amount of TNF-α and IL-12 compared with control cells, resembling the features of the alternative-activated macrophages or M2 macrophages. In addition, we show that extracellular cAMP affects monocyte differentiation into DCs, promoting the induction of cells displaying an activated, macrophage-like phenotype with reduced capacity of polarized, naive CD4+ T cells into IFN-γ-producing lymphocytes compared with control cells. The effects of extracellular cAMP on monocytes are mediated by CD73 ecto-5′-nucleotidase and A2A and A2B adenosine receptors, as selective antagonists could reverse its effects. Of note, the expression of CD73 molecules has been found on the membrane of a small population of CD14+CD16+ monocytes. These findings suggest that an extracellular cAMP-adenosine pathway is active in cells of the immune systems.
Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide Modulation of the Steroid-Induced LH Surge Involves Kisspeptin Signaling in Young but Not in Middle-Aged Female Rats
Authors: Kauffman Alexander S. , Sun Yan , Kim Joshua , Khan Azim R. , Shu Jun , Neal-Perry Genevieve
Published: March 2014

Age-related LH surge dysfunction in middle-aged rats is characterized, in part, by reduced responsiveness to estradiol (E2)-positive feedback and reduced hypothalamic kisspeptin neurotransmission. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) neurons in the suprachiasmatic nucleus project to hypothalamic regions that house kisspeptin neurons. Additionally, middle-age females express less VIP mRNA in the suprachiasmatic nucleus on the day of the LH surge and intracerebroventricular (icv) VIP infusion restores LH surges. We tested the hypothesis that icv infusion of VIP modulates the LH surge through effects on the kisspeptin and RFamide-related peptide-3 (RFRP-3; an estradiol-regulated inhibitor of GnRH neurons) neurotransmitter systems. Brains were collected for in situ hybridization analyses from ovariectomized and ovarian hormone-primed young and middle-aged females infused with VIP or saline. The percentage of GnRH and Kiss1 cells coexpressing cfos and total Kiss1 mRNA were reduced in saline-infused middle-aged compared with young females. In young females, VIP reduced the percentage of GnRH and Kiss1 cells coexpressing cfos, suggesting that increased VIP signaling in young females adversely affected the function of Kiss1 and GnRH neurons. In middle-aged females, VIP increased the percentage of GnRH but not Kiss1 neurons coexpressing cfos, suggesting VIP affects LH release in middle-aged females through kisspeptin-independent effects on GnRH neurons. Neither reproductive age nor VIP affected Rfrp cell number, Rfrp mRNA levels per cell, or coexpression of cfos in Rfrp cells. These data suggest that VIP differentially affects activation of GnRH and kisspeptin neurons of female rats in an age-dependent manner.