bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cetuximab Attenuates Its Cytotoxic and Radiosensitizing Potential by Inducing Fibronectin Biosynthesis
Authors: Eke Iris , Storch Katja , Krause Mechthild , Cordes Nils
Published: August 2013

Inherent and acquired resistance to targeted therapeutics continues to emerge as a major clinical obstacle. For example, resistance to EGF receptor targeting occurs commonly, more so than was expected, on the basis of preclinical work. Given emerging evidence that cancer cell–substrate interactions are important determinants of therapeutic sensitivity, we examined the impact of cell–fibronectin interactions on the efficacy of the EGF receptor antibody cetuximab, which is used widely for lung cancer treatment. Our results revealed the potential for cell–fibronectin interactions to induce radioresistance of human non–small cell lung cancer cells. Cell adhesion to fibronectin enhanced tumor cell radioresistance and attenuated the cytotoxic and radiosensitizing effects of cetuximab. Both in vitro and in vivo, we found that cetuximab treatment led to a remarkable induction of fibronectin biosynthesis. Mechanistic analyses revealed the induction was mediated by a p38–MAPK–ATF2 signaling pathway and that RNAi-mediated inhibition of fibronectin could elevate the cytotoxic and radiosensitizing potential of cetuximab. Taken together, our findings show how cell adhesion blunts cetuximab, which, by inducing fibronectin, generates a self-attenuating mechanism of drug resistance. Cancer Res; 73(19); 5869–79. ©2013 AACR.
Parental Tobacco and Alcohol Use and Risk of Hepatoblastoma in Offspring: A Report from the Children's Oncology Group
Authors: Johnson Kimberly J. , Williams Katherine S. , Ross Julie A. , Krailo Mark D. , Tomlinson Gail E. , Malogolowkin Marcio H. , Feusner James H. , Spector Logan G.
Published: August 2013

Background: Hepatoblastoma is a rare pediatric liver tumor that has significantly increased in incidence over the last several decades. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) recently classified hepatoblastoma as a tobacco-related cancer. Parental alcohol use has shown no association. We examined associations between parental tobacco and alcohol use around the time of pregnancy and hepatoblastoma in a large case–control study.

Methods: Maternal interviews were completed for 383 cases diagnosed in the United States during 2000–2008. Controls (n = 387) were identified through U.S. birth registries and frequency-matched to cases on birth weight, birth year, and region of residence. We used unconditional logistic regression to calculate ORs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for associations between parental smoking and maternal drinking and offspring hepatoblastoma.

Results: We found no association between hepatoblastoma and maternal smoking at any time (OR, 1.0; 95% CI, 0.7–1.4), within the year before pregnancy (OR, 1.1; 95% CI, 0.8–1.6), early in pregnancy (OR, 1.0; 95% CI, 0.7–1.6), or throughout pregnancy (OR, 0.9; 95% CI, 0.5–1.6). We observed marginally positive associations between hepatoblastoma and paternal smoking in the year before pregnancy (OR, 1.4; 95% CI, 1.0–2.0) and during pregnancy (OR, 1.4; 95% CI, 0.9–2.0). Maternal alcohol use was not associated with hepatoblastoma.

Conclusion: Our results do not provide evidence for an etiologic relationship between maternal smoking or drinking and hepatoblastoma, and only weak evidence for an association for paternal smoking in the year before pregnancy.

Impact: Our study provides limited support for hepatoblastoma as a tobacco-related cancer; however, it remains wise to counsel prospective parents on the merits of smoking cessation. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(10); 1837–43. ©2013 AACR.
Fecal miR-106a Is a Useful Marker for Colorectal Cancer Patients with False-Negative Results in Immunochemical Fecal Occult Blood Test
Authors: Koga Yoshikatsu , Yamazaki Nobuyoshi , Yamamoto Yoshiyuki , Yamamoto Seiichiro , Saito Norio , Kakugawa Yasuo , Otake Yosuke , Matsumoto Minori , Matsumura Yasuhiro
Published: August 2013

Background: Immunochemical fecal occult blood test (iFOBT) is widely used for colorectal cancer screening; however, its sensitivity is insufficient. We recently reported a fecal microRNA (miRNA) test (FmiRT) to detect colorectal cancer. In this study, we investigated a new colorectal cancer screening method combining iFOBT and FmiRT to improve the sensitivity compared with iFOBT alone.

Methods: In total, 117 colorectal cancer patients and 107 healthy volunteers were enrolled. Ten-milligram fecal samples were collected and iFOBT was conducted. Fecal RNA was extracted from residuum of iFOBT and then the expression of 14 kinds of miRNA was analyzed for the FmiRT using real-time reverse transcription PCR.

Results: Levels of fecal miR-106a expression in iFOBT+ patients and iFOBT− patients were significantly higher than in healthy volunteers (P = 0.001). The sensitivity and specificity of FmiRT using miR-106a were 34.2% and 97.2%, and those of iFOBT were 60.7% and 98.1%, respectively. The overall sensitivity and specificity of the new screening method combining iFOBT and FmiRT were 70.9% and 96.3%, respectively. One quarter of colorectal cancer patients with false-negative iFOBT seemed to be true positive upon adding FmiRT using fecal miR-106a.

Conclusions: Fecal miR-106a is a good molecular marker to identify colorectal cancer patients from among those with negative iFOBT results. FmiRT combined with iFOBT may improve the sensitivity to detect colorectal cancer.

Impact: We have shown the usefulness of fecal miR-106a to detect the colorectal cancer patients among those with negative iFOBT results. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(10); 1844–52. ©2013 AACR.
Reproductive Factors, Heterogeneity, and Breast Tumor Subtypes in Women of Mexican Descent
Authors: Martinez Maria Elena , Wertheim Betsy C. , Natarajan Loki , Schwab Richard , Bondy Melissa , Daneri-Navarro Adrian , Meza-Montenegro Maria Mercedes , Gutierrez-Millan Luis Enrique , Brewster Abenaa , Komenaka Ian K. , Thompson Patricia A.
Published: August 2013

Background: Published data support the presence of etiologic heterogeneity by breast tumor subtype, but few studies have assessed this in Hispanic populations.

Methods: We assessed tumor subtype prevalence and associations between reproductive factors and tumor subtypes in 1,041 women of Mexican descent enrolled in a case-only, binational breast cancer study. Multinomial logistic regression comparing HER2+ tumors and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) to luminal A tumors was conducted.

Results: Compared with women with luminal A tumors, those with a later age at first pregnancy were less likely to have TNBC [OR, 0.61; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.39–0.95], whereas those with three or more full-term pregnancies were more likely to have TNBC (OR, 1.68; 95% CI, 1.10–2.55). A lower odds of TNBC was shown for longer menstruation duration, whether before first pregnancy (OR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.65–0.93 per 10 years) or menopause (OR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.69–0.91 per 10 years). Patients who reported breastfeeding for more than 12 months were over twice as likely to have TNBC than luminal A tumors (OR, 2.14; 95% CI, 1.24–3.68). Associations comparing HER2+ with luminal A tumors were weak or nonexistent except for the interval between last full-term pregnancy and breast cancer diagnosis.

Conclusions: Findings show etiologic heterogeneity by tumor subtype in a population of Hispanic women with unique reproductive profiles.

Impact: Identification of etiologically distinct breast tumor subtypes can further improve our understanding of the disease and help provide personalized prevention and treatment regimens. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(10); 1853–61. ©2013 AACR.
CD62L as a Therapeutic Target in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Burgess Melinda , Gill Devinder , Singhania Richa , Cheung Catherine , Chambers Lynne , Renyolds Brent A. , Smith Louise , Mollee Peter , Saunders Nicholas , McMillan Nigel AJ
Published: August 2013

Purpose: Despite advances in the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), the disease remains incurable with standard therapies and relapse is inevitable. A growing body of evidence indicates that alterations in the adhesion properties of neoplastic cells play a pivotal role in the development and progression of CLL.

Experimental Design: The expression of 71 cell surface molecules was examined on CLL peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) over 3 weeks in culture. The most highly upregulated marker, CD62L, was examined further for expression on CD5+/CD19+ CLL cells in vitro and in lymph node and bone marrow biopsies. The prosurvival role of CD62L was examined using a functional blocking antibody and therapeutic potential evaluated by comparison with current chemotherapy agents.

Results: Blocking CD62L resulted in apoptosis of CLL cells but not PBMCs from healthy donors suggesting a novel role for CD62L in CLL cell survival. The beneficial effect of coculturing CLL cells with bone marrow stromal cells or endothelial cells does not protect CLL cells from anti-CD62L–related toxicity. Moreover, combining fludarabine or mafosfamide with the anti-CD62L in vitro produced an additive effect both with and without stromal cells.

Conclusion: This is the first reported data showing that blocking the activation and homing marker, CD62L, regulates CLL cell survival in vitro. These data also suggest that therapeutic antibodies against CD62L may provide additional clinical benefit to patients with CLL receiving current standard chemotherapy protocols. Clin Cancer Res; 19(20); 5675–85. ©2013 AACR.
Attenuation of Experimental Atherosclerosis by Interleukin-19
Authors: Ellison Stephen , Gabunia Khatuna , Kelemen Sheri E. , England Ross N. , Scalia Rosario , Richards James M. , Orr A. Wayne , Traylor James G. , Rogers Thomas , Cornwell William , Berglund Lisa M. , Goncalves Isabel , Gomez Maria F. , Autieri Michael V.
Published: August 2013

Objective—

Interleukin-19 (IL-19) is a putative Th2, anti-inflammatory interleukin. Its expression and potential role in atherogenesis are unknown. IL-19 is not detected in normal artery and is expressed to a greater degree in plaque from symptomatic versus asymptomatic patients, suggesting a compensatory counter-regulatory function. We tested whether IL-19 could reduce atherosclerosis in susceptible mice and identified plausible mechanisms.

Approach and Results—

LDLR
−/−
mice fed an atherogenic diet and injected with either 1.0 or 10.0 ng/g per day recombinant mouse IL-19 had significantly less plaque area in the aortic arch compared with controls (
P
<0.0001). Weight gain, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels were not significantly different. Gene expression in splenocytes from IL-19–treated mice demonstrated immune cell Th2 polarization, with decreased expression of T-bet, interferon-γ, interleukin-1β, and interleukin-12β and increased expression of GATA3 and FoxP3 mRNA. A greater percentage of lymphocytes were Th2 polarized in IL-19–treated mice. Cellular characterization of plaque by immunohistochemistry demonstrated that IL-19–treated mice have significantly less macrophage infiltrate compared with controls (
P
<0.001). Intravital microscopy revealed significantly less leukocyte adhesion in wild-type mice injected with IL-19 and fed an atherogenic diet compared with controls. Treatment of cultured endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, and bone marrow–derived macrophages with IL-19 resulted in a significant decrease in chemokine mRNA and mRNA stability protein human antigen R.

Conclusions—

These data suggest that IL-19 is a potent inhibitor of experimental atherosclerosis, with diverse mechanisms including immune cell polarization, decrease in macrophage adhesion, and decrease in gene expression. This may identify IL-19 as a novel therapeutic to limit vascular inflammation.
Altered Expression of
Raet1e
, a Major Histocompatibility Complex Class 1–Like Molecule, Underlies the Atherosclerosis Modifier Locus
Ath11
10b
Authors: Rodríguez José M. , Wolfrum Susanne , Robblee Megan , Chen Kwan Y. , Gilbert Zachary N. , Choi Jae-Hoon , Teupser Daniel , Breslow Jan L.
Published: August 2013

Rationale
:

Quantitative trait locus mapping of an intercross between C57.
Apoe
−/−
and FVB.
Apoe
−/−
mice revealed an atherosclerosis locus controlling aortic root lesion area on proximal chromosome 10,
Ath11
. In a previous work, subcongenic analysis showed
Ath11
to be complex with proximal (10a) and distal (10b) regions.

Objective
:

To identify the causative genetic variation underlying the atherosclerosis modifier locus
Ath11
10b.

Methods and Results:

We now report subcongenic J, which narrows the 10b region to 5 genes,
Myb
,
Hbs1L
,
Aldh8a1
,
Sgk1
, and
Raet1e.
Sequence analysis of these genes revealed no amino acid coding differences between the parental strains. However, comparing aortic expression of these genes between F1.
Apoe
−/−
Chr10SubJ
(B/F)
and F1.
Apoe
−/−
Chr10SubJ
(F/F)
uncovered a consistent difference only for
Raet1e
, with decreased, virtually background, expression associated with increased atherosclerosis in the latter. The key role of
Raet1e
was confirmed by showing that transgene-induced aortic overexpression of
Raet1e
in F1.
Apoe
−/−
Chr10SubJ
(F/F)
mice decreased atherosclerosis. Promoter reporter constructs comparing C57 and FVB sequences identified an FVB mutation in the core of the major aortic transcription start site abrogating activity.

Conclusions
:

This nonbiased approach has revealed
Raet1e
, a major histocompatibility complex class 1–like molecule expressed in lesional aortic endothelial cells and macrophage-rich regions, as a novel atherosclerosis gene and represents one of the few successes of the quantitative trait locus strategy in complex diseases.
Further Thoughts on Church Growth and Secularization
Authors: Bruce Steve
Published: August 2013

My original paper criticized a collection of essays on church growth in the United Kingdom for presenting case studies of growing congregations as refutation of the sociological secularization thesis. It argued that pockets of growth within overall decline could only refute the thesis if it required that the decline of interest in the churches be universal, even, and rapid, which it does not. David Goodhew has responded to that critique by re-stating his case and elaborating some examples. This paper clarifies the key point at issue by stressing the need for comprehensive rather than illustrative and selective evidence of religious behavior.
Christian Churches and the European Union Immigration and Asylum Policy
Authors: Mudrov Sergei A.
Published: August 2013

This article examines how Christian churches have contributed to the European Union immigration and asylum policy. It briefly discusses the main developments of the EU policy in the area of migration and asylum, and then explains why issues of migration are important to the churches (particularly that these issues are closely connected with the Biblical call to take care of a stranger). The article identifies the main Christian organisations, which work in the area of migration and asylum at the EU level, as well as their areas of specific contribution. It is found out that the strategy, used by Christian organisations, is similar to that of other non-governmental organisations, but it also bears the impact of their specific status and ‘family links’ with churches. Overall, it is sometimes difficult to separate the influence of Christian organisations from the influence of their secular counterparts working in the area of migration and asylum. However, the importance of Christian organisations is particularly noticeable in the area of monitoring and assessment, even to an extent that Christian organisations can be regarded as more important than secular ones.
The Internet Movie Database and Online Discussions of Religion
Authors: Sjö Sofia
Published: August 2013

Religion and film scholars have long used the Internet Movie Database (IMDb) as a source for material on audience responses, but not much thought has been given to what the material found on the site constitutes. This article highlights possibilities and problems with researching sites such as the IMDb, discussing how studies of Internet communication, community, and fan culture can help contextualize the material and provide a better comprehension of the discussions of religion on the site. The potential of the IMDb to offer noteworthy voices on religion is exemplified with an analysis of reviews of three religiously themed Nordic films. The views on religion expressed are theorized as a form of ‘playable religion’ reflecting contemporary attitudes to religion.
Revision of Ooctonus in the Neotropical region and comparison with Boudiennyia (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae)
Authors: HUBER JOHN T.
Published: August 2013

Ooctonus Haliday (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae) contains four species in the Neotropical Region: O. clebschi Huber, sp. n., O. costaricensis Huber, sp. n., O. woolleyi Huber, sp. n., and O. zolnerowichi Huber, sp. n. Ooctonus costaricensis represents the furthest south Ooctonus has been recorded in the New World. An illustrated identification key to females is given. The genus is compared with Boudiennyia Girault, known only from Australia and New Caledonia. Despite many similarities, Ooctonus is treated as a somewhat isolated clade whereas Boudiennyia, apparently the most similar genus to Ooctonus, is treated as the basal clade of Mymarini sensu Annecke and Doutt. Reduction in tarsal number has occurred at least four times in three distantly related clades of extant Mymaridae: in Eoforesteria Mathot and Ptilomymar Annecke & Doutt, the latter newly placed in the Camptoptera-group of genera, in Kikiki Huber & Beardsley in the Anagrus group of genera, and in Mymarini except for Boudiennyia, and perhaps also Ooctonus.
The first record of the wolf spider subfamily Zoicinae from China (Araneae: Lycosidae), with the description of two new species
Authors: LI ZONGXU , WANG LU-YU , ZHANG ZHI-SHENG
Published: August 2013

The subfamily Zoicinae Lehtinen & Hippa, 1979 is here first recorded from China with the description of a new species in the genus Zoica Simon, 1898, Z. unciformis sp. nov. from Wild Elephant Valley (Yunnan) and a new species in the genus Lysania Thorell, 1890, L. deangia sp. nov., from a rubber plantation in Nangsang Village (Yunnan). Lysania pygmaea Thorell, 1890 is recorded for the first time in China, from three localities in Yunnan and Guangxi and is redescribed here.
Response of Ice and Liquid Water Paths of Tropical Cyclones to Global Warming Simulated by a Global Nonhydrostatic Model with Explicit Cloud Microphysics
Authors: Yamada Yohei , Satoh Masaki
Published: August 2013

Cloud feedback plays a key role in the future climate projection. Using global nonhydrostatic model (GNHM) simulation data for a present-day [control (CTL)] and a warmer [global warming (GW)] experiment, the authors estimate the contribution of tropical cyclones (TCs) to ice water paths (IWP) and liquid water paths (LWP) associated with TCs and their changes between CTL and GW experiments. They use GNHM with a 14-km horizontal mesh for explicitly calculating cloud microphysics without cumulus parameterization. This dataset shows that the cyclogenesis under GW conditions reduces to approximately 70% of that under CTL conditions, as shown in a previous study, and the tropical averaged IWP (LWP) is reduced by approximately 2.76% (0.86%). Horizontal distributions of IWP and LWP changes seem to be closely related to TC track changes. To isolate the contributions of IWP/LWP associated with TCs, the authors first examine the radial distributions of IWP/LWP from the TC center at their mature stages and find that they generally increase for more intense TCs. As the intense TC in GW increases, the IWP and LWP around the TC center in GW becomes larger than that in CTL. The authors next define the TC area as the region within 500 km from the TC center at its mature stages. They find that the TC’s contribution to the total tropical IWP (LWP) is 4.93% (3.00%) in CTL and 5.84% (3.69%) in GW. Although this indicates that the TC’s contributions to the tropical IWP/LWP are small, IWP/LWP changes in each basin behave in a manner similar to those of the cyclogenesis and track changes under GW.
On the Circulation of Atlantic Water in the Arctic Ocean
Authors: Spall Michael A.
Published: August 2013

An idealized eddy-resolving numerical model and an analytic three-layer model are used to develop ideas about what controls the circulation of Atlantic Water in the Arctic Ocean. The numerical model is forced with a surface heat flux, uniform winds, and a source of low-salinity water near the surface around the perimeter of an Arctic basin. Despite this idealized configuration, the model is able to reproduce many general aspects of the Arctic Ocean circulation and hydrography, including exchange through Fram Strait, circulation of Atlantic Water, a halocline, ice cover and transport, surface heat flux, and a Beaufort Gyre. The analytic model depends on a nondimensional number, and provides theoretical estimates of the halocline depth, stratification, freshwater content, and baroclinic shear in the boundary current. An empirical relationship between freshwater content and sea surface height allows for a prediction of the transport of Atlantic Water in the cyclonic boundary current. Parameters typical of the Arctic Ocean produce a cyclonic boundary current of Atlantic Water of O(1 − 2 Sv; where 1 Sv ≡ 106 m3 s−1) and a halocline depth of O(200 m), in reasonable agreement with observations. The theory compares well with a series of numerical model calculations in which mixing and environmental parameters are varied, thus lending credibility to the dynamics of the analytic model. In these models, lateral eddy fluxes from the boundary and vertical diffusion in the interior are important drivers of the halocline and the circulation of Atlantic Water in the Arctic Ocean.
Adaptive Reduction of Striping for Improved Sea Surface Temperature Imagery from Suomi National Polar-Orbiting Partnership (S-NPP) Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS)
Authors: Bouali Marouan , Ignatov Alexander
Published: August 2013

The Suomi National Polar-Orbiting Partnership (S-NPP) satellite was successfully launched on 28 October 2011. It carries five new-generation instruments, including the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS). The VIIRS is a whiskbroom radiometer that scans the surface of the earth using a rotating telescope assembly, a double-sided half-angle mirror, and 16 individual detectors. Substantial efforts are being made to accurately calibrate all detectors in orbit. As of this writing, VIIRS striping is reduced to levels below those seen in corresponding Terra and Aqua Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) bands and meets the program specifications and requirements. However, the level 2 SST products derived from level 1 sensor data records (SDRs) thermal emissive bands still show residual striping. These artifacts reduce the accuracy of SST measurements and adversely affect cloud masking and the output of downstream applications, such as thermal front detection. To improve the quality of SST imagery derived from the VIIRS sensor, an adaptive algorithm was developed for operational use within the National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS)’s SST system. The methodology uses a unidirectional quadratic variational model to extract stripe noise from the observed image prior to nonlocal filtering. Evaluation of the algorithm performance over an extended dataset demonstrates a significant improvement in the Advanced Clear-Sky Processor for Oceans (ACSPO) VIIRS SST image quality, with normalized improvement factors (NIF) varying between 5% and 25%.
Tensile properties of military chin-strap webbing
Authors: Carr Debra , Starling George , Wilton Thomas de , Horsfall Ian
Published: August 2013

Helmet security relies on a retention system that is usually manufactured from webbing. In many helmets (e.g. bicycle, climbing) this is polyester or nylon webbing. In UK military helmets, cotton webbing is currently used for the retention system, including the chin-strap. Cotton is the preferred fiber content rather than a synthetic-polymer fiber due to the potential melt hazard of the latter. Whether the retention system of military helmets is strain rate sensitive at quasi-static and dynamic rates and whether the webbing degrades when exposed to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) are of interest with reference to current conflicts. This paper (i) presents data on quasi-static tensile properties at varying strain rates, (ii) describes a method developed to measure the dynamic tensile strain rate sensitivity and (iii) uses that method to determine the effect of simulated UVR exposure on dynamic tensile properties of cotton webbing typical of that used in UK military helmets.
To Belong Is to Matter
Authors: Lambert Nathaniel M. , Stillman Tyler F. , Hicks Joshua A. , Kamble Shanmukh , Baumeister Roy F. , Fincham Frank D.
Published: August 2013

In four methodologically diverse studies ( N = 644), we found correlational (Study 1), longitudinal (Study 2), and experimental (Studies 3 and 4) evidence that a sense of belonging predicts how meaningful life is perceived to be. In Study 1 ( n = 126), we found a strong positive correlation between sense of belonging and meaningfulness. In Study 2 ( n = 248), we found that initial levels of sense of belonging predicted perceived meaningfulness of life, obtained 3 weeks later. Furthermore, initial sense of belonging predicted independent evaluations of participants essays on meaning in life. In Studies 3 ( n = 105) and 4 ( n = 165), we primed participants with belongingness, social support, or social value and found that those primed with belongingness (Study 3) or who increased in belongingness (Study 4) reported the highest levels of perceived meaning. In Study 4, belonging mediated the relationship between experimental condition and meaning.
Intergroup Helping in Response to Separatism
Authors: van Leeuwen Esther , Mashuri Ali
Published: August 2013

Despite its prevalence and widespread media coverage, separatism as a phenomenon is barely covered in psychological investigations, and the majority’s response to separatism has been completely ignored. We present two studies in which we investigated the notion that separatist movements threaten the continuation of the national identity, as well as the nation’s economic position. Moreover, we hypothesized and found that members of the majority group respond to continuation threat by supporting government measures to help the separatist group. Javanese students who were induced to believe that existing separatist movements in West Papua (Study 1, N = 322) or Aceh (Study 2, N = 180) were currently increasing their efforts to gain independence were more willing to support these groups than participants who believed these movements were dormant. Moreover, this effect was mediated by continuation threat but not economic threat. These results demonstrate the possibility of a peaceful response to separatism threat.
A Biomechanical Analysis of Controllable Intraoperative Variables Affecting the Strength of Rotator Cuff Repairs at the Suture-Tendon Interface
Authors: Ponce Brent A. , Hosemann Chad D. , Raghava Parthasarathy , Tate Janet P. , Sheppard Evan D. , Eberhardt Alan W.
Published: August 2013

Background:

The tissue-suture interface remains the weakest aspect of a rotator cuff repair, highlighting the importance of identifying techniques to improve stitch strength. Choice of suture-passing devices, size of the tissue bite, and stitch configuration are variables that may influence stitch strength and therefore repair stability.

Purpose:

To evaluate the effect that size of the tissue penetrator device and tissue bite size have upon the holding strength of commonly used stitches.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Three different-sized tissue-penetrating devices, small circular, midsized circular, and large rectangular, were used to place sutures in 192 infraspinatus tendon grafts of sheep. Tissue bite sizes of either 0.5 cm or 1.0 cm for 4 different stitches, a simple, mattress, modified Mason-Allen (MMA), and massive cuff (MAC) stitch, were tested. Grafts were cyclically loaded and then loaded to failure. Mixed multivariate regression analysis was used to test the effect of instrument, bite size, and stitch configuration on peak-to-peak displacement, cyclic elongation, and load to failure.

Results:

The average ultimate load to failure with the smallest penetrating device was 112 N, significantly higher than with both the midsized (95 N) and large devices (91 N) ( P < .001). The average load to failure was 31 N higher for a 1.0-cm bite size when compared with a 0.5-cm bite size ( P < .001). The largest load-to-failure differences were found with the type of stitch placed: simple, 48 N; mattress, 69 N; MMA, 130 N; and MAC, 152 N (all P < .02). For simple and mattress stitches, each additional pass of the suture increased the load to failure by 21 N. In MMA and MAC stitches, an additional pass resulted in an increase in the load to failure by 50 N. Cyclic elongation did not differ by instrument type (all P > .5). The elongation of stitches with a 1.0-cm bite size was 0.14 mm higher than stitches with a 0.5-cm bite size ( P < .001). No meaningful difference in peak-to-peak displacement was seen for bite size, instrument type, or stitch construct.

Conclusion:

The strength of rotator cuff stitches was significantly affected by the different-sized tissue-penetrating instruments and size of the bite. However, the greatest predictor of time-zero stitch strength is the type of stitch placed.

Clinical Relevance:

This study highlights the importance of stitch configuration in the repair of rotator cuff tears.
Biomechanical Characteristics of 3 Pivot-Shift Maneuvers for the Anterior Cruciate Ligament–Deficient Knee
Authors: Kitamura Nobuto , Yokota Masashi , Kondo Eiji , Miyatake Shin , Nagamune Kouki , Yasuda Kazunori
Published: August 2013

Background:

A disadvantage of pivot-shift maneuvers is that the examiner has to subjectively evaluate the degree of pivot shift observed. It is unknown whether the various maneuvers are biomechanically identical.

Purpose:

To compare biomechanical features of 3 clinical maneuvers for the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)–deficient knee: the pivot-shift test, the jerk test, and the N-test.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 28 patients with an isolated ACL injury were examined by use of 3 pivot-shift maneuvers (pivot-shift test, jerk test, and N-test). An electromagnetic sensor system was used to evaluate the 3-dimensional knee kinematics of each patient’s injured and uninjured knees during each maneuver. Peak coupled anterior tibial translation (pCAT) and maximal acceleration of posterior translation (APT) were measured relative to results during a flexion-extension motion in each test.

Results:

The pCAT of the pivot-shift test was significantly greater than that of both the jerk test and the N-test ( P = .0020 and P < .0001, respectively); there was no statistical difference in pCAT between the jerk test and the N-test. The APT of the N-test was significantly greater than that of both the pivot-shift test and the jerk test ( P < .0001), while there was no statistical difference between the pivot-shift and the jerk tests. There was no correlation between pCAT and APT in each test.

Conclusion:

The pivot-shift test, jerk test, and N-test have different biomechanical characteristics to induce the pivot-shift phenomenon in the ACL-deficient knee. The pivot-shift test produced the largest side-to-side difference in pCAT, whereas the N-test provoked the largest side-to-side difference in APT.

Clinical Relevance:

The biomechanical differences in pivot-shift maneuvers are caused by technical differences, and clinicians should understand these biomechanical differences while practicing the maneuvers. The electromagnetic sensor system is clinically useful for quantifying the pivot-shift phenomenon.
Biocomposites using waste whole chicken feathers and thermoplastic matrices
Authors: Carrillo Fernando , Rahhali Ahmed , Cañavate Javier , Colom Xavier
Published: August 2013

This study deals with the preparation and characterization of thermoplastic composites using polypropylene, high-density polyethylene and polylactic acid matrices and including whole chicken feathers as reinforcement. The behaviour of the composites was determined in terms of physical and mechanical properties, which were related to the fibre–matrix compatibility analysed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that the addition of chicken feathers into the thermoplastic matrices results in a slight increase in the stiffness when small amounts of chicken feathers (5–10% vol/vol) were incorporated into the composites. Tensile strength at maximum load, elongation at break and toughness properties decreased when the chicken feather concentration was increased. Results for chicken feather–polypropylene composites were analogous to chicken feather–high-density polyethylene and chicken feather–polylactic acid composites. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic study and the scanning electron micrographs suggest that the insufficient compatibility of chicken feather and polymer matrices is the main reason for the decrease in tensile properties.
Command filtered back-stepping control of a flexible air-breathing hypersonic flight vehicle
Authors: Ji Yuehui , Zong Qun , Zhou Hailiang
Published: August 2013

Abstract

A theoretical framework of nonlinear flight control is exploited and applied to nonlinear longitudinal dynamics of a generic air-breathing hypersonic flight vehicle. A combination of novelty command filtered back-stepping technology and dynamic inversion methodology is adopted for designing a dynamic state-feedback controller that provides stable tracking of the altitude and velocity reference commands. The novel command filtered back-stepping altitude control obviates the need to compute analytic derivatives in the traditional back-stepping design, providing a simple and effective way for controlling non-linear hypersonic flight vehicle. An input-to-state stability-modular approach is presented by combining command filtered back-stepping method with sliding-mode-based integral filters, input-to-state stability analysis, and small-gain theorem. The stability analysis of the closed-loop system including the flexible dynamic, and the convergence of the system outputs are derived. The proposed control scheme is verified in simulations in a climbing maneuver case of separate velocity and altitude reference commands.
Importance analysis for models with dependent input variables by sparse grids
Authors: Li Wei , Lu Zhenzhou , Zhou Changcong
Published: August 2013

To get a better understanding on the output uncertainty contributed by an individual variable as well as the correlated variables of models with dependent inputs, a method for decomposing Sobol’s first-order effect indices into uncorrelated variations and correlated variations is investigated. Instead of using Monte Carlo simulation or full tensor product-based numerical integration approaches, a new sparse grid numerical integration method is proposed for estimating Sobol’s main effect indices as well as the two decomposed sensitivity measures. Before conducting the sparse grid numerical integration-based algorithm, an orthogonal transformation is used to transform the dependent input variables and model performance function into independent space as the joint probability density function of the correlated variables cannot be written as the product of univariate density functions. An obvious advantage of the sparse grid numerical integration-based method is that it can decrease the computational cost of the conventional methods significantly while keeping the accuracy level controllable, particularly for high-dimensional problems. The proposed approach is compared with other alternative approaches through theoretical and applied numerical experiments to demonstrate its efficiency, accuracy and high-dimensional adaptivity.
‘No learned rhetorical flourishes!’ Anti-rhetorical narration and metaphorical agency in Raabe’s Celtic Bones
Authors: Elshout Helena
Published: August 2013

As Monika Fludernik (2011) points out, creative metaphors receive less attention than conceptual metaphors in cognitive studies. The complex role of metaphor in literature and its narrative function needs to be further explored. Realistic novellas do not display a predilection towards elaborate creative metaphors. They contain other figures of speech and more conventional figurative forms such as symbols, allegories and similes – the latter to approximate an experience or perception. My hypothesis is, however, that in realistic texts metaphorical agency is often contained and instigated by virtual micronarratives (digression, memory, association, imagination and dream). How does metaphoricity relate to virtual parts of the storyworld? In order to investigate this question I use Wilhelm Raabe’s poetic realist novella Keltische Knochen ( Celtic Bones, published 1864) as a case study. Raabe’s travel account shows how virtual passages can receive and entail a metaphorical dimension. In Raabe’s novella the narrator witness claims that it does not manipulate reality by rhetorical tricks and metaphorical transformations, and therefore makes a clear distinction between the virtual and real parts of the storyworld. At the same time this distinction is undermined because the virtual events interfere with the real events and transform them into metaphorical sequences. The metaphorical sequences open up alternative segments of the storyworld that can be coined as paranarratives. The case study exposes the negotiability and the co-text dependence of literary metaphoricity and contributes to the exploration of the narrative potential of figurativeness in literary texts.
Exploring News Apps and Location-Based Services on the Smartphone
Authors: Schmitz Weiss Amy
Published: August 2013

This study investigates how young adults use news and location-based services on their smartphones, in addition to examining how many news organizations offer mobile news apps with geo-location features. Based on the survey findings, young adults are consuming news on their smartphones. Furthermore, there is a high use of location-based services by smartphone consumers, but news organizations are only using geo-location features in their mobile apps for traffic and weather. This study highlights that a gap exists between what news consumers, particularly young adults, are doing and using on their smartphones and what news organizations are able to provide.
Beyond Cognitions
Authors: Ragas Matthew W. , Tran Hai
Published: August 2013

In an effort to advance agenda-setting theory in the web environment, this study examined shifts in newswire coverage and search interest among Internet users in President Obama during the first two years of his administration (2009-2010). Both the volume and valence of media coverage influenced search attention, with volume exerting a stronger effect. Coverage volume was also driven by search trends. The impact of coverage volume on search was relatively stronger than the reverse, though it moved at a slower pace. These findings suggest a reciprocal, more complex process of salience transmission online.
Competency-Based Training for PMH Nurse Generalists
Authors: Puntil Cheryl , York Janet , Limandri Barbara , Greene Pamela , Arauz Eric , Hobbs Deborah
Published: August 2013

Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the United States. Approximately 90,000 psychiatric mental health (PMH) nurse generalists work in hospitals in the United States, mostly on inpatient psychiatric units where the most acutely suicidal patients are hospitalized. Although competencies have been developed for mental health clinicians in assessing and managing suicide risk, there are no standard competencies for PMH nurse generalists. Widely accepted nursing practices do not meet suicide-specific standards of care or evidence-based criteria. Although both the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education Essentials for Baccalaureate Education and the Quality and Safety Education for Nurses competencies stress the necessity for comprehensive assessment, safe clinical practices, patient-centered care, evidence-based interventions, and interprofessional communication and collaboration, there are no specific requirements for suicide prevention training in educational and clinical programs. The American Psychiatric Nurses Association has an opportunity to provide leadership in developing, implementing, and evaluating competency-based training for nurses and partner with the national effort to increase the competencies in suicide prevention in the behavioral health workforce.
Second Place Is First of the Losers
Authors: Judde Chris , Booth Ross , Brooks Robert
Published: August 2013

This article analyses competitive balance in Formula 1 motor racing 1950-2010. It is shown that regulation change has had a significant positive impact on championship uncertainty but not on race uncertainty or long-term dominance. If television viewer suspense is positively related not only to championship uncertainty but also to absolute quality, then this suggests the purpose of such regulation change is to maximize television broadcasting revenues and gross sponsor exposure. A simple econometric model is employed to analyze competitive balance implications of the Resource Restriction Agreement, designed to restrict team expenditure following the global financial crisis.
Ubiquitin-mediated interaction of p210 BCR/ABL with β-catenin supports disease progression in a murine model for chronic myelogenous leukemia
Authors: Chen Ru , Hu Tinghui , Mahon Gwendolyn M. , Tala Ilona , Pannucci Nicole L. , Ozer Harvey L. , Whitehead Ian P.
Published: August 2013

Key Points

p210 BCR/ABL interacts with β-catenin in the bone marrow transplantation model for chronic myelogenous leukemia. Loss of the interaction results in an altered disease phenotype, suggesting a role for β-catenin in chronic phase disease.
PANORAMA 2: panobinostat in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone in patients with relapsed and bortezomib-refractory myeloma
Authors: Richardson Paul G. , Schlossman Robert L. , Alsina Melissa , Weber Donna M. , Coutre Steven E. , Gasparetto Cristina , Mukhopadhyay Sutapa , Ondovik Michael S. , Khan Mahmudul , Paley Carole S. , Lonial Sagar
Published: August 2013

Key Points

Panobinostat + bortezomib + dexamethasone recaptures responses in heavily pretreated, bortezomib-refractory multiple myeloma patients.
Domiciliary diurnal variation of exhaled nitric oxide fraction for asthma control
Authors: Saito Junpei , Gibeon David , Macedo Patricia , Menzies-Gow Andrew , Bhavsar Pankaj K. , Chung Kian Fan
Published: August 2013

A major goal of asthma management is maintaining optimal control. Current assessment is based on symptoms and lung function.

We evaluated whether domiciliary daily home exhaled nitric oxide fraction (FeNO) monitoring could be useful as an index of asthma control. 50 asthmatic subjects and 15 healthy volunteers with a range of asthma severity underwent asthma control questionnaire (ACQ), spirometry before and after salbutamol and sputum induction.FeNOand peak expiratory flow (PEF) were measured twice daily for 2 weeks. A record of exacerbations was obtained 3 months later.

DiurnalFeNOvariation in uncontrolled asthmatics was significantly greater than in controlled asthmatics (p<0.01). PEF variation was not different. The daily variation ofFeNOlevels was also greater in uncontrolled asthmatics compared with controlled asthmatic and healthy subjects (p<0.01). 80% of uncontrolled asthmatics experienced at least one or more exacerbations over the 3 months after the enrolment. The combination of diurnalFeNOvariation ≥16.6% and ACQ scores ≥1.8 was best at predicting uncontrolled asthma (area under curve 0.91, 95% CI 0.86–0.97; p<0.001).

Diurnal variation inFeNOcan be used as a biomarker of asthma control and as a predictor of the risk of future exacerbation. Prospective studies are warranted.
Severely reduced diffusion capacity in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension: patient characteristics and treatment responses
Authors: Trip Pia , Nossent Esther J. , de Man Frances S. , van den Berk Inge A.H. , Boonstra Anco , Groepenhoff Herman , Leter Edward M. , Westerhof Nico , Grünberg Katrien , Bogaard Harm-Jan , Vonk-Noordegraaf Anton
Published: August 2013

A subgroup of patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH) has severely reduced diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) and poor prognosis. Their characteristics are currently unknown. The aim of this study is to contrast clinical characteristics and treatment responses of IPAH-patients with a severely reduced and more preservedDLCO.

Retrospectively, 166 IPAH patients were included and grouped based on aDLCOcut-off value of 45% pred (IPAH<45%and IPAH≥45%). Clinical characteristics, treatment responses and survival were compared.

IPAH<45%were older, more often male, had a more frequent history of coronary disease and a higher tobacco exposure. Forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), FEV1/forced vital capacity, total lung capacity and alveolar volume values were slightly lower and computed tomography scan abnormalities more prevalent in patients with a lowDLCO. Age and number of pack years were independently associated withDLCO<45% pred. IPAH<45%showed no different haemodynamic profile, yet worse exercise performance and a worse survival rate, which were both related to age, sex and the presence of coronary disease.

To conclude, a severely reducedDLCOin IPAH is associated with advanced age and a greater tobacco exposure. These patients have a worse exercise performance despite a similar hemodynamic profile. We confirm the decreased survival in this patient group and now show that this poor outcome is related to age, sex and the presence of coronary disease.
Risks for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections among Asian men who have sex with men in Vancouver, British Columbia: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Maung Maung Thiha , Chen Becky , Moore David M , Chan Keith , Kanters Steve , Michelow Warren , Hogg Robert S , Nakamura Nadine , Robert Wayne , Gustafson Reka , Gilbert Mark ,   The ManCount Study Team
Published: August 2013

Background

Individuals of Asian heritage represent the largest ethnic minority in Canada. Approximately 10% of the new HIV diagnoses in men in British Columbia occur among Asian-Canadians. However, the HIV risk patterns of Asian men who have sex with men (MSM) have not been extensively studied.

Methods

Participants aged ≥ 19 years were enrolled in a venue-based HIV serobehavioural survey of MSM in Vancouver, Canada. We compared the demographic characteristics, risk behaviours, and prevalence of HIV and other sexual and blood borne infections between Asian and non-Asian MSM using bivariate analysis and logistic regression confounder modelling.

Results

Amongst 1132 participants, 110 (9.7%) self-identified as Asian. Asian participants were younger than non-Asian participants (median age 29 vs. 32 years; p < 0.001), but otherwise did not differ from other study participants. HIV prevalence was lower among Asian MSM compared to Non-Asian MSM (3.7% vs 19.0%, p <0.001). Among men who self-reported as HIV negative or unknown we found no differences in unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) with a discordant or unknown serostatus partner in the previous six months (11 vs. 13%; p = 0.503). However, Asian MSM were less likely to report ever using injection drugs (10.8% vs. 19.2%; p = 0.043) or using alcohol before having sex (52% vs. 64.4%; p = 0.017).

Conclusions

Asian MSM in our study reported similar rates of UAI as non-Asian MSM, but had a lower prevalence of HIV infection. Other factors, such as the use of drugs and alcohol, in relation to sex, may partly explain these differences. However this requires further investigation.