bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
JAK1/2 and Pan-Deacetylase Inhibitor Combination Therapy Yields Improved Efficacy in Preclinical Mouse Models of JAK2V617F-Driven Disease
Authors: Evrot Emeline , Ebel Nicolas , Romanet Vincent , Roelli Claudia , Andraos Rita , Qian Zhiyan , Dölemeyer Arno , Dammassa Ernesta , Sterker Dario , Cozens Robert , Hofmann Francesco , Murakami Masato , Baffert Fabienne , Radimerski Thomas
Published: October 2013

Purpose: The myeloproliferative neoplasm myelofibrosis is characterized by frequent deregulation of Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) signaling, and JAK inhibitors were shown to reduce splenomegaly and ameliorate disease-related symptoms. However, the mutant clone and bone marrow fibrosis persist in the majority of patients. Using preclinical models, we explored whether JAK and pan-deacetylase inhibitor combination yielded additional benefits.

Experimental Design: The combination of the JAK1/2 inhibitor ruxolitinib and panobinostat was investigated using two different mouse models of JAK2V617F-driven disease. A Ba/F3 JAK2V617F cell–driven leukemic disease model was used to identify tolerated and efficacious doses. The drugs were then evaluated alone and in combination in a mouse model of myeloproliferative neoplasm–like disease based on transplantation of bone marrow transduced with a retrovirus expressing JAK2V617F. Exposures were determined in blood and tissues, and phosphorylated STAT5 and acetylated histone H3 pharmacodynamic readouts were assessed in spleen and bone marrow. Histologic analysis was conducted on spleen and bone marrow, including staining of reticulin fibers in the latter organ.

Results: The combination of ruxolitinib and panobinostat was found to have a more profound effect on splenomegaly, as well as on bone marrow and spleen histology, compared with either agent alone, and the analysis of pharmacodynamic readouts showed that ruxolitinib and panobinostat have nonoverlapping and complementary effects.

Conclusion: Combining JAK1/2 and pan-deacetylase inhibitors was fairly well tolerated and resulted in improved efficacy in mouse models of JAK2V617F-driven disease compared with the single agents. Thus, the combination of ruxolitinib and panobinostat may represent a promising novel therapeutic modality for myeloproliferative neoplasms. Clin Cancer Res; 19(22); 6230–41. ©2013 AACR.
Chemopreventive Efficacy of Raloxifene, Bexarotene, and Their Combination on the Progression of Chemically Induced Colon Adenomas to Adenocarcinomas in Rats
Authors: Janakiram Naveena B. , Mohammed Altaf , Zhang Yuting , Brewer Misty , Bryant Taylor , Lightfoot Stan , Steele Vernon E. , Rao Chinthalapally V.
Published: October 2013

Estrogen receptor (ER)-β signaling is associated positively in colon tumor progression, whereas downregulation or loss of function of retinoid X receptor (RXR)-α occurs in colon tumors. The chemopreventive efficacies of the estrogen antagonist raloxifene and the selective RXR agonist bexarotene were tested individually and in combination, during promotion and progression stages of colon tumorigenesis. Colon tumors were induced in male F344 rats with azoxymethane and at early adenoma stage, groups of rats (36 or 45 per group) were fed diets containing raloxifene (1.5 or 3 ppm), bexarotene (50 or 100 ppm), or their low-dose combinations for 40 weeks. Raloxifene or bexarotene alone significantly suppressed colon adenocarcinoma formation in terms of multiplicities (mean ± SE): control, 3.59 ± 0.25; 1.5 ppm raloxifene, 2.51 ± 0.29 (P < 0.004); 3 ppm raloxifene, 2.14 ± 0.28 (P < 0.0001); 50 ppm bexarotene, 2.25 ± 0.32 (P < 0.001); 100 ppm bexarotene, 2.1 ± 0.27 (P < 0.0001); and 1.5 ppm raloxifene + 50 ppm bexarotene, 1.57 ± 0.21 (P < 0.0001). The low-dose combination caused significant (56%) inhibition of adenocarcinomas as compared with control diet fed rats. Tumors exposed to raloxifene, bexarotene and/or the combination showed significant suppression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen, cyclin D1, and β-catenin with an increased apoptotic cells (3-fold) and p21 expression (3.8-fold) as compared tumors of rats fed control diet. The combination of low doses of raloxifene and bexarotene significantly suppressed the progression of colonic adenomas to adenocarcinomas and may be useful for colon cancer prevention and/or treatment in high-risk individuals. Cancer Prev Res; 6(12); 1251–61. ©2013 AACR.
Study of VSX1 Mutations in Patients with Keratoconus in Southwest Iran Using PCR-Single-Strand Conformation Polymorphism/Heteroduplex Analysis and Sequencing Method
Authors: Dehkordi Fatemeh Azadegan , Rashki Ahmad , Bagheri Nader , Chaleshtori Minoo Hashemzadeh , Memarzadeh Ezzatollah , Salehi Ali , Ghatreh Homan , Zandi Farid , Yazdanpanahi Nasrin , Tabatabaiefar Mohammad Amin , Chaleshtori Morteza Hashemzadeh
Published: October 2013

Objective: Keratoconus (KC) is an eye disorder in which the cornea is swollen, thinned and deformed. Despite extensive studies, the pathophysiological processes and genetic etiology of KC are unknown. The disease incidence is approximately 1 in 2,000, and it is the most common cause of corneal transplantation in the USA. Many genes are involved in the disease, but evidence suggests a major role for VSX1 in the etiology of KC. This study aimed to determine the frequency of mutations in exons 2, 3 and 4 of the VSX1 gene in Chaharmahal va Bakhtiari province in the southwest of Iran. Study Design: In this experimental study, mutations in 3 exons, namely exons 2, 3 and 4, of VSX1 were investigated in 50 patients with KC and 50 healthy control subjects. DNA was extracted using a standard phenol-chloroform method. PCR-single-strand conformational polymorphism/heteroduplex analysis was performed, followed by DNA sequencing to confirm the identified motility shifts. Results: H244R mutations were found in 1 patient and also in 1 healthy control subject. Furthermore, 12 polymorphisms were identified in patients with KC and 7 in healthy control subjects [rs6138482 and c.546A>G (rs12480307)]. Conclusion: Our investigation showed that KC-related VSX1 mutations were found in a very small proportion of the studied patients from Iran. Further investigations on other genes are needed to clarify their roles in KC pathogenesis.
Whole Brain Radiation-Induced Vascular Cognitive Impairment: Mechanisms and Implications
Authors: Warrington Junie P. , Ashpole Nicole , Csiszar Anna , Lee Yong Woo , Ungvari Zoltan , Sonntag William E.
Published: October 2013

Mild cognitive impairment is a well-documented consequence of whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT) that affects 40-50% of long-term brain tumor survivors. The exact mechanisms for the decline in cognitive function after WBRT remain elusive and no treatment or preventative measures are available for use in the clinic. Here, we review recent findings indicating how changes in the neurovascular unit may contribute to the impairments in learning and memory. In addition to affecting neuronal development, WBRT induces profound capillary rarefaction within the hippocampus - a region of the brain important for learning and memory. Therapeutic strategies such as hypoxia, which restore the capillary density, result in the rescue of cognitive function. In addition to decreasing vascular density, WBRT impairs vasculogenesis and/or angiogenesis, which may also contribute to radiation-induced cognitive decline. Further studies aimed at uncovering the specific mechanisms underlying these WBRT-induced changes in the cerebrovasculature are essential for developing therapies to mitigate the deleterious effects of WBRT on cognitive function.
Spindle Cell Melanoma: A Comparison of the Cytomorphological Features with the Epithelioid Variant
Authors: Walia Ritika , Jain Deepali , Mathur Sandeep R. , Iyer Venkateswaran K.
Published: October 2013

Objectives: Fine-needle aspiration cytology serves as a rapid and cost-effective tool for the diagnosis of melanoma, especially in the recurrent and metastatic cases. The diagnosis poses a challenge due to the varied morphological patterns. Spindle cell melanoma mimics other sarcomas and carcinomas on morphology. This study highlights the cytomorphological features of spindle cell melanoma and compares them with the conventional epithelioid type. Study Design: Cytology smears of 55 aspirates from 45 diagnosed cases of melanoma from various sites were reviewed. Histopathology correlation was done in spindle and mixed cell tumors. Results: Melanomas with a pure or mixed spindle cell component occurred in 31% of the cases and in a slightly higher age group. These demonstrated prominent cellular cohesion (p < 0.0001), mild to moderate nuclear atypia and inconspicuous to small nucleoli as compared to the epithelioid variant. The presence of melanin pigment was a useful clue to the diagnosis. Most of the cases correlated well with the histomorphology. Conclusion: Spindle cell melanoma is a morphological variant which can be readily misinterpreted due to a lack of classical cytological features of melanoma. Hence, these are vulnerable to be misinterpreted as other neoplasms. An awareness of clinical and cytological features is important to reach the correct diagnosis.
Cardiovascular Consequences of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia in Prematurely Born Preschool Children
Authors: Koroglu Ozge Altun , Yalaz Mehmet , Levent Erturk , Akisu Mete , Kültürsay Nilgun
Published: October 2013

Background: A limited number of studies have reported various short-term cardiovascular changes in bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) patients in the postsurfactant era. Little is known about the course of these changes in children with BPD. Objectives: It was the aim of this study to investigate cardiovascular consequences of BPD at preschool ages and to find out possible risk factors related to cardiovascular sequelae. Methods: Prematurely born children with (n = 21) and without BPD (n = 20) were evaluated with conventional and myocardial tissue Doppler echocardiography at the age of 2-4 years. Results: BPD patients had a decreased pulmonary artery acceleration time and higher left and right ventricular myocardial performance indexes, consistent with higher pulmonary pressures and impaired biventricular systolic and diastolic functions at preschool ages. Low birth weight, disease severity and postnatal cumulative steroid dose were related to these changes. Conclusion: Negative effects of BPD on global cardiac performances of both ventricles and pulmonary arterial pressure persist up to preschool ages.
Speaking Fundamental Frequency and Phonation Time during Work and Leisure Time in Vocally Healthy Preschool Teachers Measured with a Voice Accumulator
Authors: Szabo Portela Annika , Hammarberg Britta , Södersten Maria
Published: October 2013

Objective: More knowledge is needed about preschool teachers' voice use to identify voice behaviours related to work demands that increase the risk for vocal dysfunction. The purpose of this study was to: (1) determine if speaking fundamental frequency (F₀) and phonation time differ between work and leisure time and (2) describe variation in F₀ and phonation time across the workday in preschool teachers with healthy voices. Methods: A portable voice accumulator was used to collect data on F₀ and phonation time. Twelve vocally healthy female preschool teachers participated in recordings during both work and leisure time for 2 successive days. Their mean age was 35 years (range 21-53 years). Results: Mean F₀ was high during the working day (266 Hz) and decreased significantly after work (p < 0.0001). F₀ was high also during leisure time (246 Hz) as compared to reference F₀ values for Swedish females based on laboratory recordings. Phonation time at work varied widely among the participants, with an average of 12.0%, and decreased significantly to 5.5% during leisure time (p < 0.0001). Most participants had few opportunities for voice rest during work. Conclusion: Swedish preschool teachers use high levels of F₀ and phonation time during work compared to leisure time indicating high vocal load caused by work. To clarify the role of daily voice use in the causation of vocal dysfunction in this profession, recordings over several days are needed. In addition to F₀ and phonation time, recordings of voice sound pressure level and background noise level seem important.
Noninvasive Fractional Flow Reserve Derived From Computed Tomography Angiography for Coronary Lesions of Intermediate Stenosis Severity
Authors: Nakazato Ryo , Park Hyung-Bok , Berman Daniel S. , Gransar Heidi , Koo Bon-Kwon , Erglis Andrejs , Lin Fay Y. , Dunning Allison M. , Budoff Matthew J. , Malpeso Jennifer , Leipsic Jonathon , Min James K.
Published: October 2013

Background—

Fractional flow reserve derived from computed tomography angiography (FFR
CT
) is a noninvasive method for diagnosis of ischemic coronary lesions. To date, the diagnostic performance of FFR
CT
for lesions of intermediate stenosis severity remains unexamined.

Methods and Results—

Among 407 vessels from 252 patients at 17 centers who underwent CT, FFR
CT
, invasive coronary angiography, and invasive FFR, we identified 150 vessels of intermediate stenosis by CT, defined as 30% to 69% stenosis. FFR
CT
, FFR, and CT were interpreted in blinded fashion by independent core laboratories. FFR
CT
and FFR ≤0.80 were considered hemodynamically significant, whereas CT stenosis ≥50% was considered obstructive. Diagnostic performance of FFR
CT
versus CT was assessed for accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive values, and negative predictive values. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve and net reclassification improvement were evaluated. For lesions of intermediate stenosis severity, accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of FFR
CT
were 71%, 74%, 67%, 41%, and 90%, whereas accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of CT stenosis were 63%, 34%, 72%, 27%, and 78%. FFR
CT
demonstrated superior discrimination compared with CT stenosis on per-patient (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.81 versus 0.50;
P
=0.0001) and per-vessel basis (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.79 versus 0.53;
P
<0.0001). FFR
CT
demonstrated significant reclassification of CT stenosis for lesion-specific ischemia (net reclassification improvement, 0.45; 95% confidence interval, 0.25–0.65;
P
=0.01).

Conclusions—

FFR
CT
possesses high diagnostic performance for diagnosis of ischemic for lesions of intermediate stenosis severity. Notably, the high sensitivity and negative predictive value suggest the ability of FFR
CT
to effectively rule out intermediate lesions that cause ischemia.
Thrombospondin-1 Induction in the Diabetic Myocardium Stabilizes the Cardiac Matrix in Addition to Promoting Vascular Rarefaction Through Angiopoietin-2 Upregulation
Authors: Gonzalez-Quesada Carlos , Cavalera Michele , Biernacka Anna , Kong Ping , Lee Dong-Wook , Saxena Amit , Frunza Olga , Dobaczewski Marcin , Shinde Arti , Frangogiannis Nikolaos G.
Published: October 2013

Rationale:

Diabetes mellitus is associated with cardiac fibrosis. Matricellular proteins are induced in fibrotic conditions and modulate fibrogenic and angiogenic responses by regulating growth factor signaling.

Objective:

Our aim was to test the hypothesis that the prototypical matricellular protein thrombospondin (TSP)-1, a potent angiostatic molecule and crucial activator of transforming growth factor-β, may play a key role in remodeling of the diabetic heart.

Methods and Results:

Obese diabetic db/db mice exhibited marked myocardial TSP-1 upregulation in the interstitial and perivascular space. To study the role of TSP-1 in remodeling of the diabetic heart, we generated and characterized db/db TSP-1
–/–
(dbTSP) mice. TSP-1 disruption did not significantly affect weight gain and metabolic function in db/db animals. When compared with db/db animals, dbTSP mice had increased left ventricular dilation associated with mild nonprogressive systolic dysfunction. Chamber dilation in dbTSP mice was associated with decreased myocardial collagen content and accentuated matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 activity. TSP-1 disruption did not affect inflammatory gene expression and activation of transforming growth factor-β/small mothers against decapendaplegic signaling in the db/db myocardium. In cardiac fibroblasts populating collagen pads, TSP-1 incorporation into the matrix did not activate transforming growth factor-β responses, but inhibited leptin-induced matrix metalloproteinase-2 activation. TSP-1 disruption abrogated age-associated capillary rarefaction in db/db mice, attenuating myocardial upregulation of angiopoietin-2, a mediator that induces vascular regression. In vitro, TSP-1 stimulation increased macrophage, but not endothelial cell, angiopoietin-2 synthesis.

Conclusions:

TSP-1 upregulation in the diabetic heart prevents chamber dilation by exerting matrix-preserving actions on cardiac fibroblasts and mediates capillary rarefaction through effects that may involve angiopoietin-2 upregulation.
Prevalence and Risk Factors for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in a Large Group of β-Thalassemia Patients Using Right Heart Catheterization
Authors: Derchi Giorgio , Galanello Renzo , Bina Patrizio , Cappellini Maria Domenica , Piga Antonio , Lai Maria-Eliana , Quarta Antonella , Casu Gavino , Perrotta Silverio , Pinto Valeria , Musallam Khaled M. , Forni Gian Luca
Published: October 2013

Background—

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) remains a concern in patients with β-thalassemia major (TM) and intermedia (TI); however, studies evaluating its prevalence and risk factors using systematic confirmation on right heart catheterization are lacking.

Methods and Results—

This was a multicenter cross-sectional study of 1309 Italian β-thalassemia patients (mean age 36.4±9.3 years; 46% men; 74.6% TM, 25.4% TI). Patients with a tricuspid-valve regurgitant jet velocity ≥3.2 m/s (3.6%) on transthoracic echocardiography further underwent right heart catheterization to confirm the diagnosis of PAH (mean pulmonary arterial pressure ≥25 mm Hg and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure ≤15mm Hg). The confirmed PAH prevalence on right heart catheterization was 2.1% (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.4–3.0) and was higher in TI (4.8%; 95% CI, 3.0–7.7) than TM (1.1%; 95% CI, 0.6–2.0). The positive predictive value for the tricuspid-valve regurgitant jet velocity ≥3.2 m/s threshold for the diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension was 93.9%. Considerable functional limitation and decrease in the 6-minute walk distance were noted in patients with confirmed PAH. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, independent risk factors for confirmed PAH were age (odds ratio, 1.102 per 1-year increase; 95% CI, 1.06–1.15) and splenectomy (odds ratio, 9.31; 95% CI, 2.57–33.7).

Conclusions—

The prevalence of PAH in β-thalassemia patients as confirmed on right heart catheterization was 2.1%, with an ≈5-fold higher prevalence in TI than TM. Advanced age and splenectomy are risk factors for PAH in this patient population.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.ClinicalTrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01496963.
Microvesicles of Women With Gestational Hypertension and Preeclampsia Affect Human Trophoblast Fate and Endothelial Function
Authors: Shomer Einat , Katzenell Sarah , Zipori Yaniv , Sammour Rami N. , Isermann Berend , Brenner Benjamin , Aharon Anat
Published: October 2013

Microvesicles shedding from cell membrane affect inflammation, apoptosis, and angiogenesis. We hypothesize that microvesicles of women with gestational vascular complications reflect pathophysiological state of the patients and affect their endothelial and trophoblast cell function. Microvesicles of healthy pregnant women, women with gestational hypertension, mild, or severe preeclampsia/toxemia, were characterized, and their effects on early-stage or term trophoblasts and endothelial cells were evaluated using apoptosis, migration, and tube formation assays. Patient subgroups differed significantly only in proteinuria levels, therefore their microvesicles were assessed as 1 group, demonstrating higher levels of inflammatory and angiogenic proteins compared with those of healthy pregnant women. In endothelial cells, microvesicles of healthy pregnant women reduced caspase 3/7 activity, increased migration, and induced tube formation. These processes were suppressed by microvesicles of women with gestational vascular complications. In early-stage trophoblasts, microvesicles of healthy pregnant women decreased apoptosis compared with untreated cells (6±5% versus 13.8±5.8%;
P
<0.001) and caspase 3/7 activity and induced higher migration (39.7±10.1 versus 20.3±8.3 mm
2
;
P
<0.001). This effect was mediated through extracellular signal-regulated kinase pathway. Conversely, microvesicles of women with gestational vascular complications increased term trophoblast apoptosis compared with cells exposed to microvesicles of healthy pregnant women (15.1±3.3% versus 6.5±2.1%;
P
<0.001) and inhibited early-stage trophoblasts migration (21.4±18.5 versus 39.7±10.1 mm
2
;
P
<0.001). In conclusion, microvesicle content and effects on endothelial and trophoblast cells vary according to the physiological/pathological state of a pregnant woman. Microvesicles seem to play a pivotal role in the course of pregnancy, which could potentially result in gestational vascular complications.
Association Between Circulating Endostatin, Hypertension Duration, and Hypertensive Target-Organ Damage
Authors: Carlsson Axel C. , Ruge Toralph , Sundström Johan , Ingelsson Erik , Larsson Anders , Lind Lars , Ärnlöv Johan
Published: October 2013

Our aim is to study associations between circulating endostatin, hypertension duration, and hypertensive target-organ damage. Long-term hypertension induces cardiovascular and renal remodeling. Circulating endostatin, a biologically active derivate of collagen XVIII, has been suggested to be a relevant marker for extracellular matrix turnover and remodeling in various diseases. However, the role of endostatin in hypertension and hypertensive target-organ damage is unclear. Serum endostatin was measured in 2 independent community-based cohorts: the Prospective Investigation of the Vasculature in Uppsala Seniors (PIVUS; women 51%; n=812; mean age, 75 years) and the Uppsala Longitudinal Study of Adult Men (ULSAM; n=785; mean age, 77.6 years). Retrospective data on blood pressure measurements and antihypertensive medication (PIVUS >5 years, ULSAM >27 years), and cross-sectional data on echocardiographic left ventricular mass, endothelial function (endothelium-dependent vasodilation assessed by the invasive forearm model), and urinary albumin/creatinine ratio were available. In PIVUS, participants with ≥5 years of history of hypertension portrayed 0.42 SD (95% confidence interval, 0.23–0.61;
P
<0.001) higher serum endostatin, compared with that of normotensives. This association was replicated in ULSAM, in which participants with 27 years hypertension duration had the highest endostatin (0.57 SD higher; 95% confidence interval, 0.35–0.80;
P
<0.001). In addition, higher endostatin was associated with higher left ventricular mass, worsened endothelial function, and higher urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (
P
<0.03 for all) in participants with prevalent hypertension. Circulating endostatin is associated with the duration of hypertension, and vascular, myocardial, and renal indices of hypertensive target-organ damage. Further studies are warranted to assess the prognostic role of endostatin in individuals with hypertension.
Deyeuxia debilis (Poaceae, Agrostidinae): typification, taxonomy and update of the Chinese distribution
Authors: PASZKO BEATA , CHEN WEN-LI , SZCZEPANIAK MAGDALENA
Published: October 2013

The name Deyeuxia debilis (Poaceae, Agrostidinae), based on Calamagrostis debilis, is lectotypified by a specimen originating from India (Sikkim, Chola) in accordance with the original description and with the current use of the name by the majority of Indian and Chinese authors. The taxonomy of the species is clarified and discussed, especially in relation to the similar Deyeuxia moupinensis and D. gaoligongensis. An amended circumscription of D. debilis is given, together with an illustration of the spikelet and culm morphology. The distribution area of D. debilis includes India and China. The range of this species in China is extended as it is recorded for the first time from the Gaoligong Shan region of NW Yunnan, SW China. A key to distinguish D. debilis, D. gaoligongensis and D. moupinensis is provided.
Two new species of Rhodacaridae (Acari: Mesostigmata) from Egypt and a key to the species of the family from the Mediterranean region
Authors: ABO-SHNAF REHAM I.A. , CASTILHO RAPHAEL C. , De Moraes Gilberto J.
Published: October 2013

Two species of rhodacarid mites, Multidentorhodacarus aegypticus n. sp. and Protogamasellopsis zaheri n. sp., are described from adult females and males collected from soil and litter in Egypt. A key to identify the species of Rhodacaridae reported from the Mediterranean region is provided.
Four new species of the subfamily Psilodercinae (Araneae: Ochyroceratidae) from Southwest China
Authors: Wang Chunxia , LI Shuqiang
Published: October 2013

Four new species of the family Ochyroceratidae are described from Southwest China: Althepus christae sp. nov., Leclercera undulatus sp. nov., Psiloderces incomptus sp. nov. from Yunnan; and P. exilis sp. nov. from Guangxi. The four species belong to the subfamily Psilodercinae.
Segmented Assimilation, Split Labor Markets, and Racial/Ethnic Inequality
Authors: Restifo Salvatore J. , Roscigno Vincent J. , Qian Zhenchao
Published: October 2013

Assimilation and split labor market dynamics are core foci in research on immigration, race/ethnicity, and inequality. Little work, however, systematically analyzes how assimilation and group-level power dynamics within labor markets intersect relative to employment trajectories and rewards. In this article, we do so by offering integrated analyses of racial/ethnic inequalities for an important case, New York City from 1910 to 1930. Our multi-method analyses draw from the Integrated Public Use Microdata Series (IPUMS) and content-coded coverage from the New York Times for the period. Quantitative and qualitative results demonstrate a clear racial/ethnic hierarchy as well as group-level variations in opportunity relative to industrial concentration, segregation, and discrimination. Assimilative attributes and generational status mattered, yet certain inequalities were more firmly entrenched. Most pronounced, as seen in our qualitative analyses, were processes of social closure, discrimination, and related exclusionary constraints—constraints encountered and eventually alleviated, to some degree, for new white ethnics but not for African Americans. We conclude by discussing the theoretical and empirical utility of considering the embedded nature of assimilation within broader contexts of racial/ethnic closure in labor market opportunities and also relative to historical and contemporary eras.
Unpacking “Self”
Authors: Bolden Galina B.
Published: October 2013

Goffman’s work on footing has paved the way to specifying the analytic concepts of speaker and hearer in social interaction. This article empirically examines participants’ moment-by-moment negotiated understandings of speakerhood in the context of conversational repair—sequences of talk dedicated to resolving problems of hearing, speaking, or understanding. I demonstrate that participation in repair sequences reflects interactants’ orientations to socially distributed rights to knowledge, or epistemics. Even though speakers are ordinarily entitled to speak on their own behalf and, thus, to repair their own talk, the application of this right is a contingent, negotiated, and sometimes contested matter. Using the methodology of conversation analysis to examine a large corpus of video-recorded English, Russian, and bilingual multiparty interactions, I show how asymmetries in participants’ experiences and expertise are drawn upon in the process of repair resolution, suggesting a respecification of the notion of “self” as it pertains to repair.
Diagnostic efficacy of PET and PET/CT for recurrent lung cancer: a meta-analysis
Authors: He Yan-Qi , Gong Han-Lin , Deng Yi-Fu , Li Wei-Min
Published: October 2013

Background

Lung cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors in the world, and is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Although there are no conclusive data to support the survival benefits of early detection or early treatment for recurrence, an early and accurate diagnosis of recurrence is critical to optimize therapy.

Purpose

To compare the diagnostic value of positron emission tomography (PET) and positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) using fluorine-18 deoxyglucose (18FDG) with conventional imaging techniques (CITs) for the detection of lung cancer recurrence.

Material and Methods

A meta-analysis was performed, with systematic searches conducted using PubMed and EMBASE databases (up to 31 December 2011). Pooled sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) values were calculated for 1035 patients reported in 13 articles. Summary receiver-operating characteristic curves (SROC) were also generated.

Results

The pooled sensitivity (95% CI) for PET, PET/CT, and CITs were 0.94 (0.91–0.97), 0.90 (0.84–0.95), and 0.78 (0.71–0.84), respectively. The pooled specificity (95% CI) for PET, PET/CT, and CITs were 0.84 (0.77–0.89), 0.90 (0.87–0.93), and 0.80 (0.75–0.84), respectively. Regarding sensitivity, lower values were associated with CITs than PET ( P = 0.000) and PET/CT ( P = 0.005), and there was no significant difference between PET/CT and PET ( P = 0.102). Regarding specificity, values for PET/CT and PET were significantly higher than for CITs (both P = 0.000), and there was no significant difference between PET/CT and PET ( P = 0.273). In the SROC curves, a better diagnostic accuracy was associated with PET/CT than PET and CITs.

Conclusion

PET/CT and PET were found to be superior modalities for the detection of recurrent lung cancer, and PET/CT was superior to PET.
Trends in alcohol portrayal in popular music: A longitudinal analysis of the UK charts
Authors: Hardcastle Katherine A. , Hughes Karen , Sharples Olivia , Bellis Mark A.
Published: October 2013

The exposure of young people to alcohol in the media is a major concern given its potential impact on drinking behaviours. Young people spend increasing amounts of time listening to popular music, within which US studies have found a growth in alcohol references and brand promotion. Little information exists on alcohol-related content in UK popular music despite its international influence. We examined the lyrics of Top 10 UK singles in 1981, 1991, 2001 and 2011 for references to alcohol. Prevalence of alcohol references increased sharply between 2001 and 2011, when almost one in five (18.5%) songs referred to alcohol and one in eight (12.6%) to heavy drinking. In multivariate analyses, alcohol-related lyrical content was associated with the year 2011, Urban music genres (R&B/Rap/Hip-Hop) and artists from the USA. Alcohol-related references were often positively framed, linking alcohol use to valued attributes and favourable outcomes. Up to 3.0% of songs contained branded alcohol references. Further research should identify the impacts of alcohol references in lyrics on drinking attitudes and behaviours. Health and other professionals should recognize increased alcohol promotion in popular music and ensure this does not reinforce binge drinking culture or contribute to already high burdens of alcohol on young people.
‘Less than human’: the detention of irregular immigrants in Malta
Authors: DeBono Daniela
Published: October 2013

The treatment of irregular migrants in Malta is problematic from a human rights perspective, for it contravenes the principle of universalism that is intrinsic to human rights philosophy. Malta is unusual among states in that it imposes mandatory detention on such migrants, including asylum seekers. Based on a reading of foundational documents of the modern human rights movement, especially the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the article argues that the principle of human dignity underlies the concept of human rights, but that the bypassing of this principle enables the Maltese government to continue its detention policies while claiming to uphold human rights. It is an approach contested by NGOs in this area, which point to the dehumanising effects of detention on migrants. It is not just the appalling conditions in which migrants are held that renders their lives miserable, but the dehumanisation produced by detention itself.
Experimental investigation of deformation and fracture in multilayered graded material
Authors: Liu Xiaoyu , Ma Yinji , Yao Xuefeng
Published: October 2013

Deformation and fracture of Al/SiC multilayered graded material under three-point-bending loading is investigated experimentally. First, the full-field deformations of Al/SiC multilayered graded material under different load levels are obtained by digital image correlation method; also, the crack propagation path and deflection of the layered graded material are visualized. Second, the strain histories of Al/SiC multilayered graded material are obtained, which show a good agreement with those from the strain gauge. Finally, the deformation characterizations and fracture mechanism in Al/SiC multilayered graded material are analyzed, including damage evolution, crack initiation, interfacial debonding and crack propagation. The results play an important role in designing and evaluating the advanced multilayered graded material.
The Woodcock–Johnson Tests of Cognitive Abilities III’s Cognitive Performance Model
Authors: Taub Gordon E. , McGrew Kevin S.
Published: October 2013

The Woodcock–Johnson Tests of Cognitive Ability Third Edition is developed using the Cattell–Horn–Carroll (CHC) measurement-theory test design as the instrument’s theoretical blueprint. The instrument provides users with cognitive scores based on the Cognitive Performance Model (CPM); however, the CPM is not a part of CHC theory. Within the instrument’s Technical Manual the authors provide some information about the CPM; however, the structural/theoretical support for the validity of the CPM is limited. Recent research found empirical support for the CPM as intermediate factors within Carroll’s three-stratum theory of intelligence. The results from the present study also provide empirical support of the CPM as intermediate factors lying between the second- and third-strata of a CHC-based theoretical model. In addition, a previously unidentified research-based two-factor CPM is identified as the best-fitting model among several competing CPM.
Psychological Sense of School Membership Scale
Authors: Ye Feifei , Wallace Tanner LeBaron
Published: October 2013

The Psychological Sense of School Membership (PSSM) scale has been used widely to measure adolescent perceptions of sense of school belonging in research investigating associations between the relational quality of educational contexts and motivational and achievement outcomes. Previous research examining the factor structure of the PSSM scale consistently identifies a factor named perception of rejection that consists of only negatively worded items. This study extends previous research by considering potential method effects associated with negatively worded items. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses of a diverse U.S. high school sample ( N = 890) identified three substantive factors— identification and participation in school, perception of fitting in among peers, and generalized connection to teachers. Our investigation determined the presence of method effects in this scale, and such method effects are best represented with a common negative wording factor.
Studies on fate and toxicity of nanoalumina in male albino rats
Authors: Morsy Gamal M , Abou El-Ala Kawther S , Ali Atef A
Published: October 2013

The present work aimed to evaluate the oxidative stress of nanoalumina (aluminium oxide nanoparticles, Al2O3-NPs) with a diameter <13 nm (9.83 ± 1.61 nm) as assessed by the perturbations in the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants as well as lipid peroxidation (LPO) in the brain, liver and kidney of male albino rats, after 2 days of single acute dose (3.9 or 6.4 or 8.5 g/kg) injection and a sublethal dose of 1.3 g/kg once in 2 days for a period of 28 days. According to two-way analysis of variance, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities as well as the levels of glutathione (GSH) and LPO were significantly affected by the injected doses, organs and their interactions. On the other hand, in sublethal experiments, these parameters were affected by the experimental periods, organs and their interactions. Regression analysis confirmed that the activities of SOD, CAT, GPx and GSH levels in the brain, liver and kidney were inversely proportional with the acute doses, the experimental periods, and aluminium accumulated in these tissues, whereas the levels of LPO exhibited a positive relationship. Correlation coefficient indicated that oxidative stress mainly depends on aluminium accumulated in the studied organs, followed by injected doses and the experimental periods. In comparison with the corresponding controls, the acute and sublethal doses of Al2O3-NPs caused significant inhibition of the brain, hepatic and renal SOD, CAT, GPx activities and a severe marked reduction in the concentrations of GSH that were associated with a significant elevation in the levels of malondialdehyde (an indicator of LPO). In conclusion, our data indicated that rats injected with nanoalumina suffered from the oxidative stresses that were dose and time dependent. In addition, Al2O3-NPs released into the biospheres could be potentiating a risk to the environment and causing hazard effects on living organisms, including mammals.
Physiological and biochemical changes after boldenone injection in adult rabbits
Authors: Tousson Ehab , El-Moghazy Mostafa , Massoud Ahmed , El-Atrash Afaf , Sweef Osama , Akel Amani
Published: October 2013

Boldenone (BOL) is an androgenic steroid that improves the growth and food conversion in food-producing animals. In most countries worldwide, this anabolic steroid is forbidden for human uses and meat production as it was developed for veterinary use. Recently, BOL is used by bodybuilders in both off season and pre-contest, where it is well known for increasing vascularity while preparing for a bodybuilding contest. The present study was designed to investigate the physiological and biochemical changes in rabbits after injection with the growth promoter BOL. A total of 32 adult New Zealand rabbits were divided into four groups, where the control group includes animals that were injected intramuscularly with olive oil and dissected after 3 weeks. The remaining three experimental groups included animals that received one, two and three intramuscular injections of 5 mg/kg body weight BOL, respectively, and were dissected after 3, 6 and 9 weeks, respectively. The animals from practice appeared healthy and did not show clinical signs of disease and none of the rabbits died during the experimental period. Serum total protein, globulin, alanine aminotransferase, asparate aminotransferase, urea, creatinine, testosterone, luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone levels were significantly increased while serum direct bilirubin, albumin and albumin/globulin ratio were significantly decreased ( p < 0.05) after one, two and three intramuscular injections of BOL as compared to their relative values in the control group. These findings explain the common phenomena in athletes and bodybuilders who suffer from infertility, renal and hepatic alterations following injection with some drugs as steroids (BOL) to build muscles.
Comment on 30 Years of the BMS
Authors: Barr Stephen
Published: October 2013

The author is President of SAGE International, the publisher of the BMS since 2010 but a friend of the BMS and its editor, Karl van Meter, since the late 1980s.
Reflections on Thirty Years of Methodology and the Next Thirty
Authors: Alwin Duane F.
Published: October 2013

The author1 is the “dean” of BMS Scientific Committee members and here traces seven different trends in sociological methodology – Big Data Social Science, Longitudinal Data, Comparative Sociology, Social Networks, Inferential Statistics, Survey Methods, Measurement – in contributions of the BMS.
Quelques traces chronologiques de l’exploration textométrique
Authors: Marchand Pascal
Published: October 2013

A Few Chronological Traces of Textometric Exploration: Development of the sociology of language seen through its four stages – the past, only yesterday, today and tomorrow – and the role of the BMS in these developments.
Sélection (français/English) d’articles du BMS sur CARME (Correspondance Analysis and Related Methods) et sur la régression logistique
Authors: Cibois Philippe , Deauvieau Jérôme
Published: October 2013

A Selection of BMS Articles on CARME (Correspondance Analysis and Related Methods) and on Logistic Regression: The authors, both members of the BMS Editorial Board and know specialists in the area of CARME and logistic regression made this commented selection of articles.
A Roy Model Study of Adapting to Being HIV Positive
Authors: Perrett Stephanie E. , Biley Francis C.
Published: October 2013

Roy’s adaptation model outlines a generic process of adaptation useful to nurses in any situation where a patient is facing change. To advance nursing practice, nursing theories and frameworks must be constantly tested and developed through research. This article describes how the results of a qualitative grounded theory study have been used to test components of the Roy adaptation model. A framework for “negotiating uncertainty” was the result of a grounded theory study exploring adaptation to HIV. This framework has been compared to the Roy adaptation model, strengthening concepts such as focal and contextual stimuli, Roy’s definition of adaptation and her description of adaptive modes, while suggesting areas for further development including the role of perception. The comparison described in this article demonstrates the usefulness of qualitative research in developing nursing models, specifically highlighting opportunities to continue refining Roy’s work.
A Case Study Based On Watson’s Theory of Human Caring
Authors: Özkan İlkay Arslan , Okumuş Hülya , Buldukoğlu Kadriye , Watson Jean
Published: October 2013

Nursing theories and models form a framework for systematizing nursing practices. In Turkey, nurses are generally organized on the basis of the medical model, which makes the essence of nursing invisible. The authors here aim to explain how to maintain a theory-based care approach for nurses working with persons experiencing infertility. The interaction between an infertile woman and a nurse is shared within the framework of Watson’s theory of human caring. Watson’s theory has been found useful for the infertile group in practice.
Building the Nightingale Initiative for Global Health—NIGH
Authors: Beck Deva-Marie , Dossey Barbara M. , Rushton Cynda H.
Published: October 2013

The Nightingale Initiative for Global Health (NIGH) is a major grassroots-to-global movement of “daring, caring and sharing” of nursing and others around the world inspired by the outstanding legacy of Florence Nightingale. The Nightingale Initiative envisions and emulates what Nightingale might have accomplished if she lived in the digital age and with international agencies such as the United Nations and World Health Organization. It challenges nurses everywhere to think and act both locally and globally, to raise their voices about the contribution of nursing, and to become authentic advocates, particularly in addressing the United Nations Millennium Development Goals.
Improving Medication Safety Through the Use of Metrics
Authors: Beckett Robert D. , Yazdi Marina , Hanson Laura J. , Thompson Ross W.
Published: October 2013

Purpose:

Describe medication safety metrics used at University HealthSystem Consortium (UHC) institutions and recommend a meaningful way to report and communicate medication safety information across an organization.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted using an electronically distributed, open-ended survey instrument.

Results:

Twenty percent of the UHC institutions responded to our survey. Seventy-seven percent of those institutions responding to our survey reported their organization has defined metrics to measure medication safety; an additional 21% of the institutions were still in the process of defining metrics. Of metrics that were reported, 33% were true medication safety metrics. Results are distributed to a wide variety of institutional venues.

Conclusion:

Institutions should take several actions related to medication safety including defining local metrics; building metrics addressing preventable adverse drug events, medication errors, and technology; and reporting results to a variety of venues in order to design specific interventions to improve local medication use.
Spirituality in Men With Advanced Prostate Cancer
Authors: Lepherd Laurence
Published: October 2013

Spirituality is often regarded as being helpful during an unwell person’s journey but definitions of the concept can be confusing, and its use synonymously with religion can be misleading. This research sought to answer the question, “What is the nature of spirituality in men with advanced prostate cancer,” and to discover the role spirituality may have in these men as they face the challenges of living with their disease. A qualitative approach and narrative method was used to explore the spirituality of nine men with advanced prostate cancer who volunteered to participate and to tell the story of their cancer journey with particular focus on their spirituality. The study found that spirituality for these men, who were all Caucasians, was a “holistic thing” that involved physical, psychosocial, and spiritual matters that enabled them to transcend the everyday difficulties of their journey. Through their spirituality they obtained greater comfort and peace of mind during what was for many of them a very traumatic time. The central theme in the men’s stories was that of connectedness—to themselves, to their partners, sometimes to a higher being, to other people such as their family and friends, and to other aspects of their lives.