bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association Between Education and Domestic Violence Among Women Being Offered an HIV Test in Urban and Rural Areas in Kenya
Authors: Abuya Benta A. , Onsomu Elijah O. , Moore DaKysha , Piper Crystal N.
Published: February 2012

The objective of this study was to examine the association between education and domestic violence among women being offered an HIV test in urban and rural areas in Kenya. A sample selection of women who experienced physical ( n = 4,308), sexual ( n = 4,309), and emotional violence ( n = 4,312) aged 15 to 49 allowed for the estimation of the association between education and domestic violence with further analysis stratified by urban and rural residence. The main outcome of interest was a three-factor (physical, sexual, and emotional) measure for violence with the main predictor being education. Nearly half of all domestic violence, physical (46%), sexual (45%), and emotional (45%) occurred among women aged 15 to 29. After adjusting for confounding variables, women who resided in urban areas and had a postprimary/vocational/secondary and college/university education were 26% (OR = 0.74, 95% CI: [0.64, 0.86]), p < .001 and 22% (OR = 0.78, 95% CI: [0.66, 0.92]), p < .01 less likely to have experienced physical violence compared to those who had a primary education respectively. This was 17% (OR = 0.83, 95% CI: [0.73, 0.94]), p < .01 and 17% (OR = 0.83, 95% CI: [0.72, 0.96]), p < .05 less likely among women who resided in rural areas. A surprising finding was that women residing in rural areas with less than a primary education were 35% less likely to have experienced sexual violence (OR = 0.65, 95% CI: [0.43, 0.99]), p < .01 compared to those who had a primary education. These findings suggest that physical, sexual, and emotional violence were prevalent in Kenya among married and formerly married women. This study indicates that more research is needed to understand factors for HIV/AIDS among Kenyan women who have specifically tested positive for HIV or identified as AIDS-positive and the implications for women’s health.
Expertise and Sexual Offending
Authors: Bourke Patrice , Ward Tony , Rose Chelsea
Published: February 2012

Rehabilitation and treatment perspectives and interventions have concentrated efforts on areas where perpetrators of sexual abuse are deficient, neglecting those where offenders actively seek and strategically plan sexual offence situations and scenarios. Whereas sexual offenders may display deficiencies in some aspects of their lives, there are domain-relevant competencies such as the selection and manipulation of victims, decision making and problem solving, and eluding detection, in which some individuals appear to excel. Semistructured interviews are conducted with 47 male child sexual offenders in New Zealand, and data are analyzed using grounded theory to generate a model of offence-specific decision making. The outcome of the research is a descriptive model of expertise-related competency (ERC) of child sexual offending. The model identifies and emphasizes the variability of knowledge and skill acquisition among offenders.
Distress Resulting From Perceivers’ Own Intimate Partner Violence Experiences Predicts Culpability Attributions Toward a Battered Woman on Trial for Killing Her Abuser
Authors: Stein Michelle L. , Miller Audrey K.
Published: February 2012

Intimate partner violence (IPV) constitutes the majority of assaults against women in the United States, and greater than one third of female homicide victims are murdered by an intimate partner. In a small percentage of cases, battered women kill their abusers, and evidence of battering and its effects may be used to support a plea of self-defense in these cases. Prior research has shown that culpability attributions toward battered women who have killed their abusers are influenced by perceiver variables, including gender. The present study expands on this research by examining the influence of psychological distress resulting from perceivers’ own IPV experiences—and the mechanisms of this influence—on their culpability attributions toward a battered woman defendant. Female undergraduates in the present sample ( N = 154) read a vignette, adapted from an actual criminal case about a battered woman who had killed her abuser. Data supported a hypothesized path model, wherein participants reporting greater psychological distress resulting from IPV perpetrated against them perceived themselves more similar to the defendant, in turn empathized with her to a greater extent, and, in turn, attributed less legal culpability to her. Implications for future research are discussed.
Sexual Attitudes Mediate the Relationship Between Sexual Victimization History and Women’s Response Effectiveness
Authors: Nason Erica E. , Yeater Elizabeth A.
Published: February 2012

This study evaluated the effects of a sexual victimization history, sexual attitudes, and psychopathology on the effectiveness of women’s responses to high- and low-risk dating and social situations. Two hundred fifteen undergraduate women listened to a description of each situation, viewed a clip of an actor making a verbal request, and provided a videotaped, verbal response to each situation. Participants then completed measures assessing their victimization history, sexual attitudes, and symptoms of psychopathology. Finally, participants viewed their responses and rated how effective each response was at decreasing their risk for having an unwanted sexual experience, defined as one in which they would be verbally or physically coerced into having sexual contact of any kind with a man. Experts in the sexual violence research area also rated the effectiveness of participants’ responses using the same instructions. Results revealed that sexual attitudes mediated the relationship between victimization history and the effectiveness of participants’ responses to high- and low-risk situations. Specifically, more severe victimization experiences were linked to more liberal sexual attitudes, which, in turn, were related to responses that were rated by experts as less effective in decreasing risk of sexual victimization.
Non-linear parametric vibrations of a composite column under uniform compression
Authors: Warmiński Jerzy , Teter Andrzej
Published: February 2012

Parametric oscillations of a prismatic, thin-walled composite column with a channel section are considered in the article. The simply supported column is made of a seven-layer composite with a symmetric ply alignment. The non-linear problem of buckling is solved with Koiter’s asymptotic theory within the first-order approximation by adoption of a plate model. The asymptotic approximation leads to non-linear equations allowing evaluation of the two mode buckling effect. Parametric vibrations, produced by a periodically changing load component, are investigated near the principal parametric resonances. The approximate analytical solutions are determined by the multiple time scales of method. The influence of amplitude and frequency of parametric excitation on the structure response is investigated. An example bifurcation scenario and a possible transition to chaotic oscillations are also presented.
A Suggestion for Evaluating the Redistributional Effects of Tax Changes: With an Application to the 2006 Norwegian Tax Reform
Authors: Thoresen Thor O. , Bø Erlend E. , Fjærli Erik , Halvorsen Elin
Published: February 2012

An evaluation strategy for answering the question, “Is the tax schedule more redistributive after a reform than prior to a reform?” is presented. The procedure builds upon addressing measures of tax redistribution, utilizing micro data from periods before and after the reform. Tax redistributional effects are measured in terms of a “common base” approach, which means that a benchmark is established which facilitates identifying how the redistributional efforts of policy makers develop over time. When applying this method for evaluation of the 2006 Norwegian tax reform, the results suggest that the modification of the dual income tax system of the 2006 reform has improved the redistributional effect of the schedule. This conclusion is qualified by addressing measurement challenges brought up by the reform, such as behavioral responses and timing effects.
The Influences of Verbal Smell References in Radio Advertisements
Authors: Davis Eric A. , Magnini Vincent P. , Weaver Pamela A. , McGehee Nancy Gard
Published: February 2012

In an industry plagued by high failure rates and exorbitant amounts spent on marketing, restaurants must find ways to increase the effectiveness of their advertising. The purpose of this study is to explore how verbal smell references in restaurants’ radio advertisements (e.g., “You can almost smell the smoky and delicious aroma of your steak grilling to perfection”) affect consumers’ perceived ability to “almost taste” and “almost smell” the advertised product, affective response, and purchase intentions. In a between-subjects experiment conducted on undergraduate students, this research finds that a verbal smell reference in a radio ad significantly influences a potential consumer’s ability to almost smell and almost taste the advertised product. The smell reference also significantly affects individuals’ affective responses to the ad and purchase intent for the product. Interestingly, this research also finds that the level of “brand excitement” associated with the advertised brand perfectly mediates the relationship between the verbal smell reference and affective responses. From a managerial perspective, these results seem to indicate that verbal smell descriptions in restaurant radio ads can be associated with a number of desirable outcomes.
An Analysis of Maintenance Demand, Manpower, and Performance of Hotel Engineering Facilities
Authors: Lai Joseph H. K.
Published: February 2012

Research on maintenance for hotel engineering facilities is rare. Aimed at providing empirical findings for this niche area, an exploratory study was conducted based on the computerized maintenance management data of a hotel and the relevant records of its maintenance works. Segregated according to the period, place, and physical installation (“3P”) of the works, the data were analyzed by a series of statistical, regression and correlation analyses. The maintenance demand of the daytime electrical work in the guest rooms was found to dominate over those of the air-conditioning, plumbing and drainage, and builder’s works. The performances of the four trades of work, although exhibiting strong correlations with their demands, were not correlated with their manpower inputs. A range of statistical benchmarks and regression models were developed, which can help hoteliers evaluate their maintenance works and serve as a reference for future research in this area.
Feline intestinal parasites in Finland: prevalence, risk factors and anthelmintic treatment practices
Authors: Näreaho Anu , Puomio Jutta , Saarinen Kaisa , Jokelainen Pikka , Juselius Tiina , Sukura Antti
Published: February 2012

The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of feline intestinal parasites in Finland and to determine the possible risk factors for infection. Altogether 411 feline fecal samples were analyzed with a flotation method to reveal helminth eggs and protozoan oocysts. Of the samples, 402 were also screened for Giardia species antigens with a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. The cat owners completed a questionnaire. Toxocara cati prevalence was 5.4% and Toxascaris leonina 0.2%. Taenia species eggs were found in 1.5% of the samples and Isospora felis in 0.7%, whilst 3.2% of the samples tested positive for Giardia species antigen. Risk factors for Toxocara/ Toxascaris species infection included being a non-pedigree cat, having access to the outdoors, living outside of the cities and receiving home-made food. Pedigree cats were at greater risk of contracting Giardia duodenalis. The majority of the cat owners (62.4%) treated their cat with anthelmintics 2–4 times per year.
Health-related quality of life (EQ-5D) among homeless persons compared to a general population sample in Stockholm County, 2006
Authors: Sun Sun , Irestig Robert , Burström Bo , Beijer Ulla , Burström Kristina
Published: February 2012

Aims: To describe and compare health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among homeless persons with a general population sample in Stockholm County, 2006, and to analyse the importance of certain social determinants of health among the homeless. Methods: Face-to-face interviews with 155 homeless persons and a postal survey to a general population sample, mainly based on the same questionnaire, including questions on social determinants of health and HRQoL measured with the EQ-5D. Results: Chronic illness was three times more common among the homeless. HRQoL was worse among homeless persons than in the general population sample: the homeless reported more problems, especially more severe problems, in all the EQ-5D dimensions and had considerably lower EQ-5Dindex and EQVAS score than the general population. Most problems were reported in the dimension anxiety/depression. Among the homeless, longer duration and more severe degree of homelessness lowered HRQoL, but few determinants were statistically significantly related to HRQoL. Having mental disease significantly lowered HRQoL. Conclusions: This study was an attempt to include hard-to-reach groups in an assessment of population health. Homeless persons had considerably worse HRQoL than the general population and reported most problems in the dimension anxiety/depression. Some diseases may contribute to causing homelessness; others may be seen as consequences. Homeless persons are a vulnerable group in society. Further interview studies are needed based on larger sample of homeless persons to explore health determinants such as sex, age, socioeconomic factors, duration and degree of homelessness, and health-related behaviours among the homeless persons.
The Risk Factors and Clinical Outcomes of Upper Extremity Deep Vein Thrombosis
Authors: Lee Jung-Ah , Zierler Brenda K. , Zierler R. Eugene
Published: February 2012

The prevalence of upper extremity deep vein thrombosis (UEDVT) has shown a dramatic increase with the use of central venous catheters (CVCs) for patient care. The objective of this study was to identify risk factors and clinical outcomes in patients diagnosed with UEDVT at an academic medical center over a 1-year period. Medical records of 373 consecutive patients who underwent upper extremity venous duplex ultrasound (VDU) examination were retrospectively reviewed. A quarter of the patients screened by VDU (94 of 373) had acute UEDVT; 63% presented with arm swelling or arm pain; 48% had cancer; and 93% had indwelling CVCs. Cancer patients with CVCs were more likely to develop UEDVT (48%). Of the 94 UEDVTs, 16% had concurrent lower extremity DVT. The incidence of objectively confirmed pulmonary embolism (PE) was 9% (8 of 94 patients), and the 1-month mortality rate was 6.4%. The majority of patients (80%) with UEDVT received anticoagulation therapy and 20% were not treated. The most common risk factors for UEDVT were indwelling CVCs and a diagnosis of cancer. The incidence rate of PE and mortality rate from UEDVT were not insignificant at 9% and 6%, respectively. There were no institutional screening protocols for patients at risk of UEDVT associated with CVCs. Future research should focus on risk assessment and management protocols for patients at risk of UEDVT. In addition, a comparison of clinical outcomes associated with the type, size, and duration of catheter placement should be conducted in patients at risk of or diagnosed with UEDVT.
Relating Brain Damage to Brain Plasticity in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Tomassini Valentina , Johansen-Berg Heidi , Jbabdi Saad , Wise Richard G. , Pozzilli Carlo , Palace Jacqueline , Matthews Paul M.
Published: February 2012

Background. Failure of adaptive plasticity with increasing pathology is suggested to contribute to progression of disability in multiple sclerosis (MS). However, functional impairments can be reduced with practice, suggesting that brain plasticity is preserved even in patients with substantial damage. Objective. Here, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to probe systems-level mechanisms of brain plasticity associated with improvements in visuomotor performance in MS patients and related to measures of microstructural damage. Methods. 23 MS patients and 12 healthy controls underwent brain fMRI during the first practice session of a visuomotor task (short-term practice) and after 2 weeks of daily practice with the same task (longer-term practice). Participants also underwent a structural brain MRI scan. Results. Patients performed more poorly than controls at baseline. Nonetheless, with practice, patients showed performance improvements similar to controls and independent of the extent of MRI measures of brain pathology. Different relationships between performance improvements and activations were found between groups: greater short-term improvements were associated with lower activation in the sensorimotor, posterior cingulate, and parahippocampal cortices for patients, whereas greater long-term improvements correlated with smaller activation reductions in the visual cortex of controls. Conclusions. Brain plasticity for visuomotor practice is preserved in MS patients despite a high burden of cerebral pathology. Cognitive systems different from those acting in controls contribute to this plasticity in patients. These findings challenge the notion that increasing pathology is accompanied by an outright failure of adaptive plasticity, supporting a neuroscientific rationale for recovery-oriented strategies even in chronically disabled patients.
Vibration Elicits Involuntary, Step-Like Behavior in Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Field-Fote Edelle , Ness Lanitia L. , Ionno Michele
Published: February 2012

Background. Impaired walking is a debilitating consequence of spinal cord injury (SCI). This impairment arises, to some degree, from disruption of supraspinal pathways that activate the spinal locomotor central pattern generator (CPG). Evidence in nondisabled (ND) individuals suggests that vibration activates locomotor CPGs, eliciting involuntary step-like behavior. Objective. To compare vibration-elicited step-like behavior in individuals with chronic SCIs with the responses of ND individuals and to assess the influence of locomotor training on these responses. Methods. Participants included 7 individuals with motor-incomplete SCIs (MISCIs) and 6 with motor-complete SCIs (MCSCIs) who were untrained, 6 individuals with MISCIs who underwent locomotor training, and 8 ND individuals. Kinematic and EMG data were collected while vibration was applied to the quadriceps, hamstrings, or tensor fascia latae (TFL) muscles. Consistency and robustness of vibration-elicited responses was determined from hip and knee angle data. Results. Consistent and reliable step-like behaviors were elicited in individuals with MISCIs and MCSCIs, although responses were not as robust as those in ND individuals. Vibration to the TFL elicited the most robust responses. Consistency and robustness were not influenced by SCI severity or locomotor training but appeared to increase with repeated testing. Conclusion. These results confirm that vibration elicits step-like behaviors in individuals with SCIs, even those with no voluntary motor function in the legs. Further research is warranted to investigate the use of vibration as an approach to activating the spinal CPGs associated with stepping, perhaps as an adjunct to locomotor training for individuals with SCIs.
Hypertension in women: latest findings and clinical implications
Authors: Gudmundsdottir Helga , Høieggen Aud , Stenehjem Aud , Waldum Bård , Os Ingrid
Published: February 2012

Cardiovascular disease claims more women’s lives than any other disease. Hypertension is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease in women but is often underestimated and undiagnosed and there is an ongoing misperception that women are at a lower risk of cardiovascular disease than men. The attainment of clinical blood pressure goals can markedly reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, yet approximately two-thirds of treated hypertensive women have uncontrolled blood pressure. Furthermore, there are special risk factors that are unique for women that needs acknowledgement in order to help prevent the great number of hypertension-related events in women. Guidelines for treatment of hypertension are similar for men and women. More studies on the interaction between gender and response to antihypertensive drugs would be of interest.
Evidence for both innate and acquired mechanisms of protection from Plasmodium falciparum in children with sickle cell trait
Authors: Gong Lauren , Maiteki-Sebuguzi Catherine , Rosenthal Philip J. , Hubbard Alan E. , Drakeley Chris J. , Dorsey Grant , Greenhouse Bryan
Published: February 2012

Sickle cell trait (HbAS) is known to be protective against Plasmodium falciparum malaria, but it is unclear when during the course of infection this protection occurs and whether protection is innate or acquired. To address these questions, a cohort of 601 children 1-10 years of age were enrolled in Kampala, Uganda, and followed for 18 months for symptomatic malaria and asymptomatic parasitemia. Genotyping was used to detect and follow individual parasite clones longitudinally within subjects. Children with HbAS were protected against the establishment of parasitemia, as assessed by the molecular force of infection at older but not younger ages (at 2 years of age: incidence rate ratio [IRR] = 1.16; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.62-2.19; P = .6; at 9 years of age: IRR = 0.50; 95% CI, 0.28-0.87; P = .01), suggesting an acquired mechanism of protection. Once parasitemic, children with HbAS were less likely to progress to symptomatic malaria, with protection again being the most pronounced at older ages (at 2 years of age: relative risk [RR] = 0.92; 95% CI, 0.77-1.10; P = .3; at 9 years of age: RR = 0.68; 95% CI, 0.51-0.91; P = .008). Conversely, the youngest children were best protected against high parasite density (at 2 years of age: relative density = 0.24; 95% CI, 0.10-0.54; P = .001; at 9 years of age: relative density = 0.59; 95% CI, 0.30-1.19; P = .14), suggesting an innate mechanism of protection against this end point.
Outcomes after matched unrelated donor versus identical sibling hematopoietic cell transplantation in adults with acute myelogenous leukemia
Authors: Saber Wael , Opie Shaun , Rizzo J. Douglas , Zhang Mei-Jie , Horowitz Mary M. , Schriber Jeff
Published: February 2012

Approximately one-third of patients with an indication for hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) have an HLA-matched related donor (MRD) available to them. For the remaining patients, a matched unrelated donor (MUD) is an alternative. Prior studies comparing MRD and MUD HCT provide conflicting results, and the relative efficacy of MRD and MUD transplantation is an area of active investigation. To address this issue, we analyzed outcomes of 2223 adult acute myelogenous leukemia patients who underwent allogeneic HCT between 2002 and 2006 (MRD, n = 624; 8/8 HLA locus matched MUD, n = 1193; 7/8 MUD, n = 406). The 100-day cumulative incidence of grades B-D acute GVHD was significantly lower in MRD HCT recipients than in 8/8 MUD and 7/8 MUD HCT recipients (33%, 51%, and 53%, respectively; P < .001). In multivariate analysis, 8/8 MUD HCT recipients had a similar survival rate compared with MRD HCT recipients (relative risk [RR], 1.03; P = .62). 7/8 MUD HCT recipients had higher early mortality than MRD HCT recipients (RR, 1.40; P < .001), but beyond 6 months after HCT, their survival rates were similar (RR, 0.88; P = .30). These results suggest that transplantation from MUD and MRD donors results in similar survival times for patients with acute myelogenous leukemia.
Cyclophosphamide, bortezomib, and dexamethasone therapy in AL amyloidosis is associated with high clonal response rates and prolonged progression-free survival
Authors: Venner Christopher P. , Lane Thirusha , Foard Darren , Rannigan Lisa , Gibbs Simon D. J. , Pinney Jennifer H. , Whelan Carol J. , Lachmann Helen J. , Gillmore Julian D. , Hawkins Philip N. , Wechalekar Ashutosh D.
Published: February 2012

Bortezomib has shown great promise in the treatment of amyloid light-chain (AL) amyloidosis. We present our experience of 43 patients with AL amyloidosis who received cyclophosphamide, bortezomib, and dexamethasone (CVD) upfront or at relapse. Of these, 74% had cardiac involvement and 46% were Mayo Cardiac Stage III. The overall hematologic response rate was 81.4%, including complete response (CR) in 41.9% and very good partial response with > 90% decrease in difference between involved/uninvolved light chain (VGPR-dFLC) in 51.4%. Patients treated upfront had higher rates of CR (65.0%) and VGPR-dFLC (66.7%). The estimated 2-year progression-free survival was 66.5% for patients treated upfront and 41.4% for relapsed patients. Those attaining a CR or VGPR-dFLC had a significantly better progression-free survival (P = .002 and P = .026, respectively). The estimated 2-year overall survival was 97.7% (94.4% in Mayo Stage III patients). CVD is a highly effective regimen producing durable responses in AL amyloidosis; the deep clonal responses may overcome poor prognosis in advanced-stage disease.
HIV-1 Subtype distribution in morocco based on national sentinel surveillance data 2004-2005
Authors: Akrim Mohammed , Lemrabet Sanae , Elharti Elmir , Gray Rebecca R , Tardy Jean Claude , Cook Robert L , Salemi Marco , Andre Patrice , Azarian Taj , Aouad Rajae El
Published: February 2012

Background

Little is known about HIV-1 subtype distribution in Morocco. Some data suggest an emergence of new HIV subtypes. We conducted phylogenetic analysis on a nationally representative sample of 60 HIV-1 viral specimens collected during 2004-2005 through the Morocco national HIV sentinel surveillance survey.

Results

While subtype B is still the most prevalent, 23.3% of samples represented non-B subtypes, the majority of which were classified as CRF02_AG (15%). Molecular clock analysis confirmed that the initial introduction of HIV-1B in Morocco probably came from Europe in the early 1980s. In contrast, the CRF02_AG strain appeared to be introduced from sub-Saharan Africa in two separate events in the 1990s.

Conclusions

Subtype CRF02_AG has been emerging in Morocco since the 1990s. More information about the factors introducing HIV subtype-specific transmission will inform the prevention strategy in the region.
Diet supplementation with green tea extract epigallocatechin gallate prevents progression to glucose intolerance in db/db mice
Authors: Ortsäter Henrik , Grankvist Nina , Wolfram Swen , Kuehn Nicolas , Sjöholm Åke
Published: February 2012

Background

Green tea was suggested as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of diabetes more than 70 years ago, but the mechanisms behind its antidiabetic effect remains elusive. In this work, we address this issue by feeding a green tea extract (TEAVIGO™) with a high content of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) or the thiazolidinedione PPAR-γ agonist rosiglitazone, as positive control, to db/db mice, an animal model for diabetes.

Methods

Young (7 week-old) db/db mice were randomized and assigned to receive diets supplemented with or without EGCG or rosiglitazone for 10 weeks. Fasting blood glucose, body weight and food intake was measured along the treatment. Glucose and insulin levels were determined during an oral glucose tolerance test after 10 weeks of treatment. Pancreata were sampled at the end of the study for blinded histomorphometric analysis. Islets were isolated and their mRNA expression analyzed by quantitative RT-PCR.

Results

The results show that, in db/db mice, EGCG improves glucose tolerance and increases glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. EGCG supplementation reduces the number of pathologically changed islets of Langerhans, increases the number and the size of islets, and heightens pancreatic endocrine area. These effects occurred in parallel with a reduction in islet endoplasmic reticulum stress markers, possibly linked to the antioxidative capacity of EGCG.

Conclusions

This study shows that the green tea extract EGCG markedly preserves islet structure and enhances glucose tolerance in genetically diabetic mice. Dietary supplementation with EGCG could potentially contribute to nutritional strategies for the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Elucidating the role of ferrous ion cocatalyst in enhancing dilute acid pretreatment of lignocellulosic biomass
Authors: Wei Hui , Donohoe Bryon S , Vinzant Todd B , Ciesielski Peter N , Wang Wei , Gedvilas Lynn M , Zeng Yining , Johnson David K , Ding Shi-You , Himmel Michael E , Tucker Melvin P
Published: February 2012

Background

Recently developed iron cocatalyst enhancement of dilute acid pretreatment of biomass is a promising approach for enhancing sugar release from recalcitrant lignocellulosic biomass. However, very little is known about the underlying mechanisms of this enhancement. In the current study, our aim was to identify several essential factors that contribute to ferrous ion-enhanced efficiency during dilute acid pretreatment of biomass and to initiate the investigation of the mechanisms that result in this enhancement.

Results

During dilute acid and ferrous ion cocatalyst pretreatments, we observed concomitant increases in solubilized sugars in the hydrolysate and reducing sugars in the (insoluble) biomass residues. We also observed enhancements in sugar release during subsequent enzymatic saccharification of iron cocatalyst-pretreated biomass. Fourier transform Raman spectroscopy showed that major peaks representing the C-O-C and C-H bonds in cellulose are significantly attenuated by iron cocatalyst pretreatment. Imaging using Prussian blue staining indicated that Fe2+ions associate with both cellulose/xylan and lignin in untreated as well as dilute acid/Fe2+ion-pretreated corn stover samples. Analyses by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy revealed structural details of biomass after dilute acid/Fe2+ion pretreatment, in which delamination and fibrillation of the cell wall were observed.

Conclusions

By using this multimodal approach, we have revealed that (1) acid-ferrous ion-assisted pretreatment increases solubilization and enzymatic digestion of both cellulose and xylan to monomers and (2) this pretreatment likely targets multiple chemistries in plant cell wall polymer networks, including those represented by the C-O-C and C-H bonds in cellulose.
An immunocompetent migrant presenting with neurosyphilis with an unusual unilateral papillitis: a case report
Authors: Turchetti Paolo , Pacella Fernanda , Pacella Elena , Mirisola Concetta , Uccella Ilaria
Published: February 2012

Unilateral papillitis caused by Treponema pallidum was found in an immunocompetent homosexual patient with severe vision loss who had received previous antibiotics treatment. Syphilis-related ocular manifestation is more common in the early stages of the disease and it can be associated with a central nervous system localization. In this patient, neurosyphilis was diagnosed on the basis of clinical and laboratory findings. Optical examination revealed unilateral papillitis in the left eye and no relative afferent pupillary defects. The patient underwent visual field examinations with conventional perimetry using the 30-2 program of the Humphrey Visual Field Analyzer, which indicated a blind spot enlargement in the left eye. Optical coherence tomography, visual evoked potentials (VEP), and fluorescein angiograms revealed inflammation of the optic nerve head with edematous and blurred margins. A reactive T. pallidum hemagglutination assay with low rapid plasma reagin (RPR) serum titer was performed; an HIV antibody test and MRI of the orbits and head with contrast gave negative results. Resolution of the ocular inflammation after intravenous penicillin treatment was obtained. The reported case illustrates the importance of early recognition of this treatable disease. The rise of syphilis, especially in urban areas, necessitates a high level of suspicion when dealing with patients with intraocular inflammation of unknown origin. Lues serology should be incorporated into routine laboratory diagnostics to aid in the detection of such cases. Considering the re-emergence of syphilis, screening of migrants from countries with high syphilis seroprevalences should be recommended.
Consistent Source-to-Site Distance Metrics in Ground-Motion Prediction Equations and Seismic Source Models for PSHA
Authors: Bommer Julian J. , Akkar Sinan
Published: February 2012

Most modern ground-motion prediction equations (GMPE) use definitions of the source-to-site distance that reflect the dimensions of the fault rupture for larger earthquakes rather than using point-source measures relative to the epicenter or hypocenter. This is a positive development since it more realistically reflects the fact that energy is released from the crust around the entire fault rupture during a large earthquake. However, seismic source configurations defined for probabilistic seismic hazard analysis (PSHA) almost invariably include areas of distributed point-source seismicity in addition to linear fault sources, particularly in regions of lower earthquake activity. Herein, two GMPEs are derived from the same dataset to demonstrate the errors that can result from combining point-source simulations and extended-source distance metrics. The case is made for all ground-motion model developers to consider deriving pairs of equations, one using an extended-source distance metric, the other a point-source measure.
Estimated Temporal Variation of Losses Due to a Recurrence of the 1933 Long Beach Earthquake
Authors: Swift Jennifer , Wilson John , Nguyen Le Toan
Published: February 2012

The temporal variation of damage and loss estimates are presented in decadal increments since 1950 for an earthquake on the Newport-Inglewood Fault (NIF) equivalent to the Mw 6.4 1933 Long Beach earthquake. Deterministic damage and loss calculations were performed utilizing Hazus-MH software and updated structural inventories. We estimate that building stock loss density (total losses within each census tract divided by tract area) due to the recurrence of this event in 1950 would have been about $84 million, increasing to $300 million in 2006 (2002 replacement costs). With the phenomenal growth in new construction in Long Beach over the past 50 years, the results indicate that the proportion of wood and unreinforced masonry (URM) buildings predicted to suffer at least moderate damage has stabilized. Given the many seismic sources in this region which also pose significant threats, we demonstrate that modeling tools such as Hazus-MH can provide meaningful estimates of future losses from earthquakes.
Ground Motion Recordings from the Mw 6.3 2009 L'Aquila Earthquake in Italy and their Engineering Implications
Authors: Stewart Jonathan P. , Lanzo Giuseppe , Pagliaroli Alessandro , Scasserra Giuseppe , Di Capua Giuseppe , Peppoloni Silvia , Darragh Robert , Gregor Nicholas
Published: February 2012

The 2009 L'Aquila earthquake sequence includes the April 6 Mw 6.3 main shock and triggered events on April 7 and 9, each recorded on a digital network having five stations on the hanging wall of the main shock fault. We describe a geometric source model drawing upon inversions by others. We describe record-specific ground motion data processing that includes the incorporation of static displacements of up to 13 cm (downdrop of hanging wall). The resulting database includes 47, 38, and 31 corrected triaxial recordings from the April 6, 7, and 9 events, respectively. We present site conditions for recording stations, including recent surface wave and borehole geophysics. We demonstrate that the high-frequency data are weaker than expected for normal fault earthquakes of these magnitudes and that the data attenuate with distance at rates generally consistent with modified next generation attenuation (NGA) equations for Italy that were available prior to the event.
Empirical Correlations between Cumulative Absolute Velocity and Amplitude-Based Ground Motion Intensity Measures
Authors: Bradley Brendon A.
Published: February 2012

Empirical correlation equations are developed between cumulative absolute velocity ( CAV) and other common ground motion intensity measures, namely, peak ground acceleration ( PGA), peak ground velocity ( PGV), 5% damped pseudo spectral acceleration ( SA), acceleration spectrum intensity ( ASI), spectrum intensity ( SI), and displacement spectrum intensity ( DSI). It is found that, for a given earthquake rupture, CAV has the strongest correlation with high and moderate frequency intensity measures (IMs), that is, ASI, PGA, PGV and high-frequency SA, and to a lesser extent with low frequency IMs ( DSI and low-frequency SA). The largest positive correlations of approximately 0.7 however are not high in an absolute sense, a result of the cumulative nature of CAV. The equations allow estimation of the joint distribution of these intensity measures for a given earthquake rupture, enabling the inclusion of CAV, and its benefit as a cumulative intensity measure, in seismic hazard analysis, ground motion selection, and seismic response analysis.
Empirical Correlations between Peak Ground Velocity and Spectrum-Based Intensity Measures
Authors: Bradley Brendon A.
Published: February 2012

Empirical correlation equations between peak ground velocity ( PGV) and several spectrum-based ground motion intensity measures are developed. The intensity measures examined in particular were: peak ground acceleration ( PGA), 5% damped pseudo-spectral acceleration ( SA), acceleration spectrum intensity ( ASI), and spectrum intensity ( SI). The computed correlations were obtained using ground motions from active shallow crustal earthquakes and four ground motion prediction equations. Results indicate that PGV is strongly correlated (i.e., a correlation coefficient of [Formula: see text]) with SI, moderately correlated with medium to long-period SA (i.e., [Formula: see text] for vibration periods 0.5-3.0 seconds), and also moderately correlated with short period SA, PGA and ASI ([Formula: see text]). A simple example is used to illustrate one possible application of the developed correlation equations for ground motion selection.
First-Line Treatment of Advanced Breast Cancer With Sunitinib in Combination With Docetaxel Versus Docetaxel Alone: Results of a Prospective, Randomized Phase III Study
Authors: Bergh Jonas , Bondarenko Igor M. , Lichinitser Mikhail R. , Liljegren Annelie , Greil Richard , Voytko Nataliya L. , Makhson Anatoly N. , Cortes Javier , Lortholary Alain , Bischoff Joachim , Chan Arlene , Delaloge Suzette , Huang Xin , Kern Kenneth A. , Giorgetti Carla
Published: February 2012

Purpose

To investigate whether sunitinib plus docetaxel improves clinical outcomes for patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)/neu–negative advanced breast cancer (ABC) versus docetaxel alone.

Patients and Methods

In this phase III study, patients were randomly assigned to open-label combination therapy (sunitinib 37.5 mg/d, days 2 to 15 every 3 weeks; and docetaxel 75 mg/m2, day 1 every 3 weeks) or monotherapy (docetaxel 100 mg/m2 every 3 weeks). Progression-free survival (PFS) was the primary end point.

Results

Two hundred ninety-six patients were randomly assigned to combination therapy, and 297 patients were assigned to monotherapy. Median PFS times were 8.6 and 8.3 months with combination therapy and monotherapy, respectively (hazard ratio, 0.92; one-sided P = .265). The objective response rate (ORR) was significantly higher with the combination (55%) than with monotherapy (42%; one-sided P = .001). Duration of response was similar in both arms (7.5 months with the combination v 7.2 months with monotherapy). Median overall survival (OS) times were 24.8 and 25.5 months with combination therapy and monotherapy, respectively (one-sided P = .904). There were 107 deaths with the combination and 91 deaths with monotherapy. The frequency of common adverse events (AEs) was higher with the combination, as were treatment discontinuations caused by AEs.

Conclusion

The combination of sunitinib plus docetaxel improved ORR but did not prolong either PFS or OS compared with docetaxel alone when given to an unselected HER2/neu-negative cohort as first-line treatment for ABC. Sunitinib combination therapy may also have resulted in AEs that yield an unfavorable risk-benefit ratio. The sunitinib-docetaxel regimen evaluated in this study is not recommended for further use in ABC.
Involvement of actin polymerization in podosome dynamics
Authors: Luxenburg Chen , Winograd-Katz Sabina , Addadi Lia , Geiger Benjamin
Published: February 2012

Podosomes, formed by different monocyte derivatives, are small adhesion structures whose coordinated dynamics and cytoskeletal reorganization drive their motile and invasive features. Using live-cell microscopy, we explored the temporal molecular steps of the de novo assembly and disassembly of podosomes in cultured osteoclasts. We demonstrate here that the earliest visible step in podosome assembly is the local accumulation of the plaque protein paxillin, along with cortactin, which stabilizes actin networks, followed by robust polymerization of actin filaments, and their association with α-actinin. Only then, a local increase in integrin β3 levels is apparent in the podosome ring domain. Thus, local actin polymerization in paxillin-rich locations nucleates podosome assembly prior to the local accumulation of β3 integrin. We further show that actin polymerization is also critical for the recruitment and maintenance of plaque proteins in the mature podosome ring domain. Our model implies that core bundle dynamics play a central role in regulating podosome stability.
Identifying a novel functional domain within the p115 tethering factor required for Golgi ribbon assembly and membrane trafficking
Authors: Grabski Robert , Balklava Zita , Wyrozumska Paulina , Szul Tomasz , Brandon Elizabeth , Alvarez Cecilia , Holloway Zoe G. , Sztul Elizabeth
Published: February 2012

The tethering factor p115 has been shown to facilitate Golgi biogenesis and membrane traffic in cells in culture. However, the role of p115 within an intact animal is largely unknown. Here, we document that RNAi-mediated depletion of p115 in C. elegans causes accumulation of the yolk protein (YP170) in body cavity and the retention of the yolk receptor RME-2 in the ER and the Golgi within oocytes.

Structure-function analyses of p115 have identified two homology (H1-2) regions within the N-terminal globular head and the coiled-coil 1 (CC1) domain as essential for p115 function. We identify a novel C-terminal domain of p115 as necessary for Golgi ribbon formation and cargo trafficking. We show that p115 mutants lacking the fourth CC domain (CC4) act in a dominant negative manner to disrupt Golgi and prevent cargo trafficking in cells containing endogenous p115. Furthermore, using RNAi-mediated "replacement" strategy we show that CC4 is necessary for Golgi ribbon formation and membrane trafficking in cells depleted of endogenous p115.

p115 has been shown to bind a subset of ER-Golgi SNAREs through CC1 and CC4 domains (Shorter et al., 2002). Our findings show that CC4 is required for p115 function and suggest that both the CC1 and the CC4 SNARE-binding motifs may participate in p115-mediated membrane tethering.
IGFBP-5 induces cell adhesion, increases cell survival and inhibits cell migration in MCF-7 human breast cancer cells.
Authors: Sureshbabu A. , Okajima H. , Yamanaka D. , Tonner E. , Shastri S. , Maycock J. , Szymanowska M. , Shand J. , Takahashi S.-I. , Beattie J , Allan G.J. , Flint D.J.
Published: February 2012

Maintenance of tissue boundaries is crucial for control of metastasis. We describe a novel signalling pathway in which epithelial cell disruption can be minimised and thereby restricts epithelial-mesenchymal transgressions. This involves IGFBP-5 release from apoptotic cells, which increases epithelial cell adhesion on mesenchymal but not epithelial ECM and involves direct interaction of IGFBP-5 with α2β1 integrins. IGFBP-5 also induced adhesion to vitronectin in the absence of αVβ3 integrin, the vitronectin receptor, again via an α2β1 integrin-dependent action, suggesting that IGFBP-5 can induce spreading on matrices, even in the absence of the integrins normally used. Using IGFBP-5 mutants we demonstrate that the effect is IGF-independent but requires the heparin-binding domain in the c-terminus of IGFBP-5. A truncated c-terminal mutant of IGFBP-5 also induced adhesion. Adhesion induced by IGFBP-5 was cdc42-dependent and resulted in activation of ILK and Akt. Consistent with these changes, IGFBP-5 facilitated prolonged cell survival in nutrient-poor conditions and decreased phosphorylation of the stress-activated kinase p38MAPK. Whilst IGFBP-5 enhanced adhesion, it inhibited cell migration although this was not evident using the truncated c-terminal mutant, suggesting that effects of IGFBP-5 on adhesion and migration involve different mechanisms. These responses to IGFBP-5 would be anticipated to reduce metastatic potential.
AP1 is essential for generation of autophagosomes from trans-Golgi network
Authors: Guo Yajuan , Chang Chunmei , Huang Rui , Liu Bo , Bao Lan , Liu Wei
Published: February 2012

Despite recent advances in understanding the functions of autophagy in developmental and pathological conditions, the underlying mechanism of where and how autophagosomal structures acquire membrane remains enigmatic. Here, we provide evidence that post-Golgi membrane traffic plays a critical role in autophagosome formation. Increased secretion of constitutive cargo from the trans-Golgi network (TGN) to plasma membrane induced the formation of microtubule-associated protein light chain 3 (LC3)-positive structures. At the early phase of autophagy, LC3 associated with and then budded off from a distinct TGN domain without constitutive TGN-to-plasma cargo and TGN-to-endosome proteins. Adaptor protein-1 (AP1), a clathrin adaptor, and clathrin, localized to starvation- and rapamycin-induced autophagosomes. Dysfunction of the AP1-dependent clathrin coating at the TGN but not at the plasma membrane prevented autophagosome formation. Our results thus suggest an essential role of the TGN in autophagosome biogenesis, providing membrane to autophagosomes through an AP1-dependent pathway.
The 14-3-3 genepar-5is required for germline development and DNA damage response inCaenorhabditis elegans.
Authors: Aristizábal-Corrales David , Fontrodona Laura , Porta-de-la-Riva Montserrat , Guerra-Moreno Angel , Cerón Julián , Schwartz Simo
Published: February 2012

14-3-3 proteins have been extensively studied from yeast to mammals and associated with multiple roles ranging from fundamental processes such as cell cycle, apoptosis and stress response to diseases such as cancer. In Caenorhabditis elegans, there are two 14-3-3 genes, ftt-2 and par-5. The ftt-2 gene is expressed only in somatic lineages, whereas par-5 expression is detected in both soma and germline. In early embryonic development, par-5 is necessary to establish cell polarity. Although it is known that par-5 inactivation results in sterility, the role of this gene in germline development is poorly characterized. In the present study, we use a par-5 mutation and RNA interference to characterize par-5 functions in the germline. The lack of par-5 in germ cells causes cell cycle deregulation, the accumulation of endogenous DNA damage and genomic instability. Moreover, par-5 is required for checkpoint-induced cell cycle arrest in response to DNA-damaging agents. We propose a model where PAR-5 regulates CDK-1 phosphorylation to prevent premature mitotic entry. This study opens a new path to investigate the mechanisms of 14-3-3 functions, which are not only essential for worm development but also have been shown altered in human diseases.