bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aluminum Contamination in Parenteral Nutrition Admixtures for Low‐Birth‐Weight Preterm Infants in Mexico
Authors: Lima‐Rogel Victoria , Romano‐Moreno Silvia , de Jesús López‐López Esperanza , de Jesús Escalante‐Padrón Francisco , Hurtado‐Torres Gilberto Fabian
Published: September 2014

Background: Aluminum contamination from intravenous solutions still represents an unsolved clinical and biochemical problem. Increased aluminum intake constitutes a risk factor for the development to metabolic bone disease, anemia, cholestasis, and neurocognitive alterations. Low‐birth‐weight preterm infants (LBWPIs) are one of the most exposed populations for aluminum toxicity. Methods: To determine the presence of aluminum in components employed in the preparation of parenteral nutrition (PN) admixtures in Mexico and compare with the maximal aluminum recommended intake from the Food and Drug Administration. Results: Cysteine, trace elements, levocarnitine, phosphate, and calcium salts tested positive for aluminum contamination. All components analyzed were contained in glass vials. Total aluminum intake for 2 sample PN admixtures were calculated in basis to cover nutrition requirements of 2 hypothetical LBWPIs. Aluminum contents, stratified in micrograms per kilogram of weight, exceeded maximal aluminum recommendations, particularly for the very LBWPIs. Substituting sodium phosphate for potassium phosphate salts reduced aluminum intake by 52.7%. Calcium gluconate was the leading aluminum contamination source and confers the greatest risk for aluminum overdose, even with the salt substitution of potassium phosphate by sodium phosphate salts. Adding cysteine and trace elements might increase aluminum content in PN admixtures. Conclusion: Cysteine, trace elements, phosphate, and gluconate salts are the main sources of aluminum in PN prepared in Mexico. Substituting sodium phosphate for potassium phosphate salts reduces aluminum intake but does not resolve aluminum contamination risk. Mineral salts contained in plastic vials should be explored as an additional measure to reduce aluminum contamination.
The Shortest Covering Path Problem
Authors: Niblett Timothy J. , Church Richard L.
Published: September 2014

The shortest covering path (SCP) problem involves finding the shortest path between an origin node and a destination node, where the path traverses the network and passes within a maximal covering distance of all nodes of the network. This problem was originally proposed by Current, ReVelle, and Cohon. Since that time researchers have proposed both heuristic and optimal approaches for this problem as well as have developed more general forms, including the maximal covering shortest path problem. From the outset, it has been assumed that any optimal covering path would never loop or double back on itself. This assumption is examined in detail. We demonstrate that this assumption can lead to longer than necessary covering paths. We also present a new, more general construct, which can be used to generate optimal SCPs and demonstrate its use on an example problem.
Evaluation with 3.0-T MR imaging: predicting the pathological response of triple-negative breast cancer treated with anthracycline and taxane neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Kim Min Jung , Kim Eun-Kyung , Park Seho , Moon Hee Jung , Kim Seung , Park Byeong-Woo
Published: September 2014

Background

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) which expresses neither hormonal receptors nor HER-2 is associated with poor prognosis and shorter survival. Several studies have suggested that TNBC patients attaining pathological complete response (pCR) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) show a longer survival than those without pCR.

Purpose

To assess the accuracy of 3.0-T breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in predicting pCR and to evaluate the clinicoradiologic factors affecting the diagnostic accuracy of 3.0-T breast MRI in TNBC patients treated with anthracycline and taxane (ACD).

Material and Methods

This retrospective study was approved by the institutional review board; patient consent was not required. Between 2009 and 2012, 35 TNBC patients with 3.0-T breast MRI prior to ( n = 26) or after ( n = 35) NAC were included. MRI findings were reviewed according to pCR to chemotherapy. The diagnostic accuracy of 3.0-T breast MRI for predicting pCR and the clinicoradiological factors affecting MRI accuracy and response to NAC were analyzed.

Results

3.0-T MRI following NAC with ACD accurately predicted pCR in 91.4% of TNBC patients. The residual tumor size between pathology and 3.0-T MRI in non-pCR cases showed a higher correlation in the Ki-67-positive TNBC group ( r = 0.947) than in the Ki-67 negative group ( r = 0.375) with statistical trends ( P = 0.069). Pre-treatment MRI in the non-pCR group compared to the pCR group showed a larger tumor size ( P = 0.030) and non-mass presentation ( P = 0.015).

Conclusion

3.0-T MRI in TNBC patients following NAC with ACD showed a high accuracy for predicting pCR to NAC. Ki-67 can affect the diagnostic accuracy of 3.0-T MRI for pCR to NAC with ACD in TNBC patients.
Making Bodies Matter in IR
Authors: Wilcox Lauren
Published: September 2014

Neumann’s call for taking bodies more seriously in IR is a welcome intervention but is framed problematically. Through a reading of Butler, I argue that Neumann’s invocation of a ‘physical body’ that needs to be brought into IR is itself an object of discourse, and that Butler would deny the distinction Neumann makes between the social and physical body. I also discuss Neumann’s call for a dialogue with the physical sciences in reference to recent works associated with the ‘new materialisms’ and conclude by calling for critical attention to the ways in which bodies are brought into IR theory.
Medium-term effectiveness of online behavioral training in migraine self-management: A randomized trial controlled over 10 months
Authors: Sorbi MJ , Kleiboer AM , van Silfhout HG , Vink G , Passchier J
Published: September 2014

Aim

This randomized, controlled trial examined the medium-term effectiveness of online behavioral training in migraine self-management (oBT; N = 195) versus waitlist control (WLC; N = 173) on attack frequency, indicators of self-management (primary outcomes), headache top intensity, use of rescue medications, quality of life and disability (secondary outcomes).

Methods

An online headache diary following the ICHD-II and questionnaires were completed at baseline (T0), post-training (T1) and six months later (T2). Missing data (T1: 24%; T2: 37%) were handled by multiple imputation. We established effect sizes (ES) and tested between-group differences over time with linear mixed modelling techniques based on the intention-to-treat principle.

Results

At T2, attack frequency had improved significantly in oBT (−23%, ES = 0.66) but also in WLC (−19%; ES = 0.52). Self-efficacy, internal and external control in migraine management – and triptan use – improved only in oBT, however. This indicates different processes in both groups and could signify (the start of) active self-management in oBT. Also, only oBT improved migraine-specific quality of life to a sizable extent.

Conclusions

oBT produced self-management gains but could not account for improved attack frequency, because WLC improved as well. The perspective that BT effects develop gradually, and that online delivery will boost BT outreach, justifies further research.
A new hybrid methodology according to near surface mounted carbon fiber reinforced polymer technique for the flexural strengthening of reinforced concrete beams
Authors: Rezazadeh Mohammadali , Barros Joaquim
Published: September 2014

The objective of this paper is to propose a new hybrid methodology according to near surface mounted (NSM) technique, using carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) reinforcement for the flexural strengthening of reinforced concrete (RC) beams. This NSM hybrid flexural strengthening technique combines non-prestressed and prestressed CFRP laminates in the same application in order to provide a good balance in terms of load-carrying and ultimate displacement capacity to the strengthened elements. An experimental program composed of six RC beams was carried out to assess the benefits of this NSM hybrid technique when compared to the use of non-prestressed or prestressed NSM CFRP laminates (NSM prestressing technique). For this purpose, the performance of both techniques in terms of crack width, prevailing failure mode, ultimate displacement capacity, energy absorption, and load-carrying capacity of the strengthened beams was assessed. The experimental tests were also simulated by executing advanced 3D nonlinear finite element analysis. Moreover, the potentialities of other configurations for the NSM hybrid technique by adopting different non-prestressed CFRP reinforcement ratios were numerically assessed executing a parametric study, and the relevant results are presented and discussed.
Development and validation of a high-performance liquid chromatography method with post-column derivatization for the detection of aflatoxins in cereals and grains
Authors: Asghar Muhammad Asif , Iqbal Javed , Ahmed Aftab , Khan Mobeen Ahmed , Shamsuddin Zuzzer Ali , Jamil Khalid
Published: September 2014

A novel, reliable and rapid high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method with post-column derivatization was developed and validated. The HPLC method was used for the simultaneous determination of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), B2 (AFB2), G1 (AFG1) and G2 (AFG2) in various cereals and grains. Samples were extracted with 80:20 (v/v) methanol:water and purified using C18 (40–63 μm) solid-phase extraction cartridges. AFs were separated using a LiChroCART–RP-18 (5 μm, 250 × 4.0 mm2) column. The mobile phase consisted of methanol:acetonitrile:buffer (17.5:17.5:65 v/v) (pH 7.4) delivered at the flow rate of 1.0 mL min−1. The fluorescence of each AF was detected at λex = 365 nm and λem = 435 nm. All four AFs were properly resolved within the total run time of 20 min. The established method was extensively validated as a final verification of the method development by the evaluation of selectivity (AFB1, AFB2, AFG1 and AFG2), linearity ( R2 ≥ 0.9994), precision (average SD ≤ 2.79), accuracy (relative mean error ≤ −5.51), robustness ( p < 0.0080), ruggedness ( p < 0.0100) and average recoveries (89.2–97.8%). The limits of quantification of AFB1, AFB2, AFG1 and AFG2 were 0.080, 0.073, 0.062 and 0.066 ng g−1, respectively. Finally, the developed method was applied for the analysis of AFs in 45 samples comprising rice ( n = 20), wheat ( n = 15) and maize ( n = 10). The results showed that 65% of rice, 20% of wheat and 80% of maize samples were found contaminated with AFs. Thus, according to the achieved results, it is suggested that the newly developed HPLC method could be effectively applied for the routine analysis of the AFs in different cereals and grains.
Making a Home for the Homeless in Hate Crime Legislation
Authors: Al-Hakim Mohamad
Published: September 2014

Several jurisdictions in the United States (e.g., Florida and Washington) have recently incorporated the status of “homeless” under the protection of hate crime legislation. This was largely promoted by new data and reports by the National Coalition for the Homeless urging added protection for the homeless. The issue of whether the homeless belong under hate crime provisions raises the following question: What criteria must a group meet to be eligible for its inclusion? What similarities do the homeless have with other protected groups? Finally, what implications does the recognition of economic status have on other economic groups, particularity the top wealthy 1%? In this article, I explore some of the issues raised by including the homeless as a protected group. I survey several rationales offered for the selection of protected characteristics. I argue that the rationales currently offered suffer from descriptive inadequacy by either being under- or over-inclusive. I turn instead to the political conception of “disadvantage” for an identity marker that better explains the link between the various protected groups and identities under hate crime legislation. Moreover, the use of disadvantage allows for the inclusion of the homeless without the need for incorporating other socio-economic identities.
Peeking in the Black Box
Authors: Summers-Effler Erika , Van Ness Justin , Hausmann Christopher
Published: September 2014

The discovery of mirror neurons opens new doors for ethnography. By attending to these advancements in cognitive science, ethnographers are provided firmer ground for investigating perceptual and emotional dynamics that are outside the realm of conscious deliberative processes. In this article, we explore these extra-deliberative processes in order to posit a new way to collect, analyze, and present findings. By examining how extra-deliberative dynamics shape action in systematic ways, we endeavor to bring together two aspects of sociological practice that have been assumed to be incompatible: (1) analytic efforts to build general theory and (2) a focus on emotions and other extra-deliberative dynamics. We conclude by suggesting that insights garnered through the analysis of extra-deliberative processes are optimally communicated using emotionally evocative writing.
Gender and Health Control Beliefs Among Middle-Aged and Older Adults
Authors: Pudrovska Tetyana
Published: September 2014

Objective: Internal health locus of control (HLOC) reflects individuals’ beliefs that their own behavior influences their health. This study explores the gender difference in internal HLOC among middle-aged and older adults. Method: Using data from two waves of the National Survey of Midlife Development in the United States (MIDUS; N = 1,748), I estimate two-level random-intercept models predicting internal HLOC. Results: Women report higher levels of health control beliefs than men, especially in older cohorts born in the 1920s and 1930s. Adjustment for health, socioeconomic status, generalized control, and masculinity increases this gender gap, whereas adjustment for femininity and religiosity significantly reduces this difference. Women’s higher religiosity and more feminine traits, such as warmth, nurturance, and care, partly explain their higher internal HLOC relative to men. Discussion: Because femininity and religiosity are positively associated with other-orientation, interventions to increase communal orientation may enhance beliefs in proactive responsibility for one’s health among older adults.
A multi-stage drop-the-losers design for multi-arm clinical trials
Authors: Wason James , Stallard Nigel , Bowden Jack , Jennison Christopher
Published: September 2014

Multi-arm multi-stage trials can improve the efficiency of the drug development process when multiple new treatments are available for testing. A group-sequential approach can be used in order to design multi-arm multi-stage trials, using an extension to Dunnett’s multiple-testing procedure. The actual sample size used in such a trial is a random variable that has high variability. This can cause problems when applying for funding as the cost will also be generally highly variable. This motivates a type of design that provides the efficiency advantages of a group-sequential multi-arm multi-stage design, but has a fixed sample size. One such design is the two-stage drop-the-losers design, in which a number of experimental treatments, and a control treatment, are assessed at a prescheduled interim analysis. The best-performing experimental treatment and the control treatment then continue to a second stage. In this paper, we discuss extending this design to have more than two stages, which is shown to considerably reduce the sample size required. We also compare the resulting sample size requirements to the sample size distribution of analogous group-sequential multi-arm multi-stage designs. The sample size required for a multi-stage drop-the-losers design is usually higher than, but close to, the median sample size of a group-sequential multi-arm multi-stage trial. In many practical scenarios, the disadvantage of a slight loss in average efficiency would be overcome by the huge advantage of a fixed sample size. We assess the impact of delay between recruitment and assessment as well as unknown variance on the drop-the-losers designs.
Financial Deepening and Economic Growth in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Marashdeh Hazem A. , Al-Malkawi Husam-Aldin N.
Published: September 2014

This article draws on the authors’ previously published work. It aims to examine the relationship between financial deepening and economic growth in one of the major emerging economies, namely Saudi Arabia. Using time series data from 1970 to 2010, the study employs the autoregressive distributed lag approach to co-integration. The financial depth or size of the financial intermediaries’ sector is measured by the monetisation ratio (M2/GDP). On the one hand, the results show a positive and statistically significant long-run relationship between financial deepening, as measured by M2/GDP, and economic growth, as measured by gross domestic product (GDP) per capita growth. On the other hand, there is no evidence of the short-run dynamic bidirectional relationship between the variables. By and large, the result supports the supply-leading hypothesis that financial deepening spurs economic growth in the case of Saudi Arabia.

JEL Classification: G20, O40, C22
Oxidant-induced damage to equine erythrocytes from exposure to Pistacia atlantica, Pistacia terebinthus, and Pistacia chinensis
Authors: Walter Kyla M. , Moore Caroline E. , Bozorgmanesh Rana , Magdesian K. Gary , Woods Leslie W. , Puschner Birgit
Published: September 2014

Two horses were referred for methemoglobinemia and hemolytic anemia following 5 acute deaths in their herd from an unidentified toxin source. Horses have a greater risk than other mammalian species of developing methemoglobinemia and hemolytic anemia following ingestion of oxidizing toxins, due to deficiencies in the mechanisms that protect against oxidative damage in erythrocytes. Their susceptibility to oxidative erythrocyte damage is evident in the numerous cases of red maple ( Acer rubrum) toxicosis. The suspected toxins causing A. rubrum toxicosis are tannic acid, gallic acid, and a metabolite of gallic acid, pyrogallol. These compounds can be found in a variety of plants, posing a risk to equine health. In order to quickly identify toxin sources, 2 rapid in vitro assays were developed to screen plant extracts for the ability to induce methemoglobin formation or cause hemolysis in healthy equine donor erythrocytes. The plant extract screening focused on 3 species of the genus Pistacia: P. atlantica, P. terebinthus, and P. chinensis, which were located in the horse pasture. Extracts of the seeds and leaves of each species induced methemoglobin formation and resulted in hemolysis, with seed extracts having greater potency. The in vitro assays used in the current study provide a useful diagnostic method for the rapid identification of oxidizing agents from unidentified sources. There is no effective treatment for oxidative erythrocyte damage in horses, making rapid identification and removal of the source essential for the prevention of poisoning.
Somali Immigrant Perceptions of Mental Health and Illness
Authors: Wolf Kimberly M. , Zoucha Rich , McFarland Marilyn , Salman Khlood , Dagne Ahmed , Hashi Naimo
Published: September 2014

Purpose: Knowledge of Somali immigrants’ mental health care beliefs and practices is needed so that nurses can promote culturally congruent care. The purpose of this study was to explore, discover, and understand mental health meanings, beliefs, and practices from the perspective of immigrant Somalis. Method: Leininger’s qualitative ethnonursing research method was used. Thirty informants (9 key and 21 general) were interviewed in community settings. Leininger’s ethnonursing enablers and four phases of analysis for qualitative data were used. Results: Analysis of the interviews revealed 21 categories and nine patterns from which two main themes emerged. The themes are the following: (a) Our religion significantly influences our mental health and (b) Our tribe connectedness, cultural history, and khat usage are significant in mental health. Conclusions: Somali cultural and religious beliefs and practices influence their health care choices. Implications: The findings will improve care by promoting culturally congruent care for the Somali immigrant population.
Using the Theory of Planned Behavior to Predict Aggression and Weapons Carrying in Urban African American Early Adolescent Youth
Authors: Finigan-Carr Nadine M. , Cheng Tina L. , Gielen Andrea , Haynie Denise L. , Simons-Morton Bruce
Published: September 2014

Aggressive and weapons carrying behaviors are indicative of youth violence. The theory of planned behavior is used in the current analysis to improve our understanding of violence-related behaviors. We examine the influence of perceived behavioral control (self-control and decision making) as a part of the overall framework for understanding the risk and protective factors for aggressive behaviors and weapons carrying. As the baseline assessment of an intervention trial, survey data were collected on 452 sixth-grade students (50% girls; 96.6% African American; mean age 12.0 years) from urban middle schools. A total of 18.4% carried a weapon in the prior 12 months, with boys more likely to carry a weapon than girls (22.5% vs. 14.2%, p = .02). Of the youth, 78.4% reported aggressive behaviors with no significant differences found between girls (81.3%) and boys (75.5%). In logistic regression models, having peers who engage in problem behaviors was found to be a significant risk factor. Youth with peers who engaged in numerous problem behaviors were five times more likely to be aggressive than those who reported little or no peer problem behaviors. Teens who reported that their parents opposed aggression (odds ratio [OR] = 0.76; confidence interval [CI] = 0.66, 0.88) and who used self-control strategies (OR = 0.59; CI = 0.39, 0.87) were found to report less aggressive behaviors. For weapons carrying, being a girl (OR = 0.56; CI = 0.32, 0.97) and self-control (OR = 0.52; CI = 0.29, 0.92) were protective factors. This study demonstrated that the theory of planned behavior may provide a useful framework for the development of violence prevention programs. Practitioners should consider integrating strategies for developing healthy relationships and improving self-control.
Active Commuting to School, Weight Status, and Cardiometabolic Risk in Children From Rural Areas
Authors: Gutiérrez-Zornoza Myriam , Sánchez-López Mairena , García-Hermoso Antonio , González-García Alberto , Chillón Palma , Martínez-Vizcaíno Vicente
Published: September 2014

Purpose. The aim of this study was to examine (a) whether distance from home to school is a determinant of active commuting to school (ACS), (b) the relationship between distance from home to heavily used facilities (school, green spaces, and sports facilities) and the weight status and cardiometabolic risk categories, and (c) whether ACS has a positive impact on schoolchildren’s health. Method. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 956 schoolchildren aged 10 to 12 years from the province of Cuenca, Spain. Height, weight, fat mass, waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting plasma lipid profile, insulin, fitness, physical activity, and ACS were measured. Distances from home to facilities were measured by a geographic information system, and a validated metabolic syndrome index was used. Findings. Children living closer to school (less than 600 m) commuted actively to school more frequently than children living further away (more than 800 m). Normoweight boys lived further away from sports facilities than overweight/obese peers, and children presenting higher cardiometabolic risk levels lived closer to school than those who did not. No differences were found between children who daily walked/cycled to school and those commuting actively to school less frequently in body mass index, metabolic syndrome index, fitness, and physical activity. Conclusions. ACS had no positive impact on schoolchildren’s health. Distance to school is an indicator of active commuting. However, it seems that not enough physical activity is done to prevent obesity and cardiometabolic risk factors in rural areas.
Cellular Deficiency of Werner Syndrome Protein or RECQ1 Promotes Genotoxic Potential of Hydroquinone and Benzo[a]pyrene Exposure
Authors: Garige Mamatha , Sharma Sudha
Published: September 2014

The 5 known RecQ helicases in humans (RECQ1, BLM, WRN, RECQL4, and RECQ5) have demonstrated roles in diverse genome maintenance mechanisms but their functions in safeguarding the genome from environmental toxicants are poorly understood. Here, we have evaluated a potential role of WRN (mutated in Werner syndrome) and RECQ1 (the most abundant homolog of WRN) in hydroquinone (HQ)- and benzo[a]pyrene (BaP)-induced genotoxicity. Silencing of WRN or RECQ1 expression in HeLa cells increased their sensitivity to HQ and BaP but elicited distinct DNA damage response. The RECQ1-depleted cells exhibited increased replication protein A phosphorylation, Chk1 activation, and DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) as compared to control or WRN-depleted cells following exposure to BaP treatment. The BaP-induced DSBs in RECQ1-depleted cells were dependent on DNA-dependent protein kinase activity. Notably, loss of WRN in RECQ1-depleted cells ameliorated BaP toxicity. Collectively, our results provide first indication of nonredundant participation of WRN and RECQ1 in protection from the potentially carcinogenic effects of BaP and HQ.
Which matters more in the electoral success of Islamist (successor) parties – religion or performance? The Turkish case
Authors: Gidengil Elisabeth , Karakoç Ekrem
Published: September 2014

Does the electoral success of Islamist parties depend on the support of religious voters or does it owe as much or more to their performance in dealing with key political and economic issues? The repeated electoral success of an Islamist-rooted party, the Justice and Development Party (AKP) of Turkey, provides an important opportunity to answer this question. Using a nation-wide survey conducted in 2011 in Turkey, our findings suggest that in addition to religiosity the party’s performance with respect to social services, the economy and democracy were determining factors in the AKP’s success. We also found that the popularity of political leaders has an independent effect on party preference. We discuss similar tendencies in the aftermath of the Arab Spring elections where the Islamist parties emerged as the major winners.
Bicameralism, intra-party bargaining, and the formation of party policy positions
Authors: Bäck Hanna , Debus Marc , Klüver Heike
Published: September 2014

How do political parties arrive at their policy positions? We conceptualize position formation in federalist countries as an intra-party bargaining process in which subnational parties compete with each other in an attempt to get their own positions into their national party manifesto. Drawing on theories about inter-party bargaining over ministerial portfolios, we hypothesize that the bargaining success of subnational parties depends on their parliamentary strength. We evaluate our hypotheses based on a comprehensive dataset on policy positions of national and subnational parties in Germany from 1990 until 2009. Our results show that German subnational parties that are powerful in the second parliamentary chamber ( Bundesrat) are particularly successful in shaping the manifesto of their national party. The findings have important implications for our understanding of intra-party politics and position formation within political parties in Germany more specifically and federalist countries more generally.
Public involvement in research: making sense of the diversity
Authors: Oliver Sandy , Liabo Kristin , Stewart Ruth , Rees Rebecca
Published: September 2014

This paper presents a coherent framework for designing and evaluating public involvement in research by drawing on an extensive literature and the authors’ experience. The framework consists of three key interrelated dimensions: the drivers for involvement; the processes for involvement and the impact of involvement. The pivotal point in this framework is the opportunity for researchers and others to exchange ideas. This opportunity results from the processes which bring them together and which support their debates and decisions. It is also the point at which research that is in the public interest is open to public influence and the point at which the interaction can also influence anyone directly involved. Judicious choice of methods for bringing people together, and supporting their debate and decisions, depends upon the drivers of those involved; these vary with their characteristics, particularly their degree of enthusiasm and experience, and their motivation.
Durational variability of schwa in early and late Spanish–English bilinguals
Authors: Byers Emily , Yavaş Mehmet
Published: September 2014

Aims:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether bilinguals categorically displayed shorter or longer schwa durations between fixed word pairs where one word contains a deletable syllable and the other does not (as in “rational” [ræʃənəl] → [ræʃnəl] compared with “rationality” [ræʃənæləti]). We hypothesized that monolingual and early bilingual speakers would produce shorter values for “deletable” schwas whereas late bilinguals would not.

Methodology:

Twenty native English speakers and 40 Miami-based Spanish–English bilinguals (20 early and 20 late bilinguals) were asked to read sentences containing target words from 10 semantically related word pairs.

Analysis:

A three-way mixed model ANOVA was performed to determine the relationship between schwa duration and the following factors: language group, word root, and deletable/non-deletable category. Pairwise t-tests were also performed on individual categories to determine if semantically related pairs differed in duration.

Conclusions:

Results indicated that native English speakers produce significantly shorter durations for schwa in deletable versus non-deletable position. Early bilingual productions are very similar to those of English-only speakers, whereas late bilinguals display much longer durations in both categories.

Originality:

This study is the first to directly compare word-internal vowel duration patterns in Spanish–English bilingual speakers.

Implications:

These results indicate that age of L2 acquisition is a predictive factor in determining how native-like an L2 speaker’s pronunciation of reduced vowels will be.

Limitations:

Given the specific nature of the word pairs tested, a reading instrument was the most efficient manner of eliciting target word pairs. Future studies should try to evaluate this issue using other types of stimuli.
Attributions of responsibility and punishment for ingroup and outgroup members: The role of just world beliefs
Authors: Halabi Samer , Statman Yael , Dovidio John F.
Published: September 2014

People have a need to believe that the world is a just place. When confronted with injustice, this just world belief (JWB) is threatened. The present research, conducted in the context of relations between Israeli Jews and Arabs, examined how group membership of actor and participants’ beliefs in a just world affect attributions of responsibility and punishment as a function of culpability of the actor. In particular, after measuring their JWB, Jewish participants ( n = 214) read a description of a Jewish or Arab driver who was guilty or nonguilty in a car accident in which an innocent pedestrian was injured. As predicted, participants attributed less blame and recommended less severe punishment for an ingroup than an outgroup member for the same event and stronger beliefs in a just world predicted recommendations for less severe punishment for ingroup members. Theoretical and applied implications are discussed.
Endovascular coil embolisation of a giant pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysm from a gunshot wound
Authors: Kumar Abhishek , Yoon John , Kunac Anastasia , Contractor Sohail , Kisza Piotr
Published: September 2014

A 38-year-old female was brought to the trauma emergency room after sustaining multiple gunshot wounds to the right chest and abdomen. She had pulmonary contusions involving the right lung and a haemopneumothorax initially managed with chest tube placement. A few weeks into her hospitalisation, she was found to have a giant right pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysm, which corresponded to a bullet tract. The pseudoaneurysm was causing a steal phenomenon and impaired perfusion of the right middle lobe and right lower lobe. Endovascular coil embolisation of the pseudoaneurysm was performed with restoration of perfusion to the right lung.
On the meaning of life: A qualitative interpretive meta synthesis of the lived experience of life without parole
Authors: Sliva Shannon M
Published: September 2014

This Qualitative Interpretive Meta Synthesis (QIMS) develops a more complete understanding of the lived experience of serving a Life Without Parole (LWOP) sentence by synthesizing the results of existing qualitative studies focused on this population. The four studies selected for this QIMS contain interviews with 86 male prisoners serving a sentence of LWOP. The current synthesis uses phenomenology and grounded theory as methods to obtain a new understanding from the limited data on this specialized vulnerable population.

Findings

The conceptual model emerging from this QIMS indicates that prisoners experience the sentence of LWOP with feelings of deep loss which mimic the grief response of the dying patient as described by Kubler-Ross (1969). Upon the initial shock of sentencing and imprisonment, inmates pass through stages of denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and ultimately, acceptance. In order to cope with the harsh reality of life imprisonment, ‘lifers’ find ways to exercise personal choice, keep a positive outlook, and forge meaning from their sufferings. Those who are successful in these tasks discover great resilience.

Applications

This synthesis suggests that the application of grief and resilience theories may be relevant with prisoners and other similarly marginalized populations coping with extraordinary loss of self. Given the potential of inmates in this study to discover personal resilience and engage in attempts at social reconciliation, policy makers should consider whether a sentence of LWOP shortchanges both inmates and society.
Investigation on pullout behavior of different polymeric fibers from fine aggregates concrete
Authors: Halvaei Mana , Jamshidi Masoud , Latifi Masoud
Published: September 2014

Nowadays, the advantages of staple fibers applied as reinforcement in cementitious composites are well known. The interaction of fiber to cement matrix affects on the mechanical properties of composites. In this research, bonding of three types of polymeric fibers (acrylic, polypropylene, and nylon 66) to a fine aggregates concrete has been studied. Single fiber pullout test was carried out to investigate the bonding and fiber–matrix adhesion. Afterwards, scanning electron microscopy was performed to characterize pulled out fibers surfaces. The effect of water-to-binder (w/b) ratio on the fiber–matrix bonding was also assessed. It was found that the pullout strength of acrylic fiber is more than polypropylene (29%) and nylon 66 (10%) fibers. It was also found that the pullout energy of polypropylene and nylon 66 fibers is 75% higher than the acrylic fiber. The best result of bonding strength was obtained at w/b ratio of 0.25. It was concluded that it is possible to improve the mechanical properties of concrete using low price polymeric fibers.
Spinal Cord Stimulation as Adjuvant During Chemotherapy and Reirradiation Treatment of Recurrent High-Grade Gliomas
Authors: Clavo Bernardino , Robaina Francisco , Jorge Ignacio J. , Cabrera Raquel , Ruiz-Egea Eugenio , Szolna Adam , Otermin Emilio , Llontop Pedro , Carames Miguel A. , Santana-Rodríguez Norberto , Sminia Peter
Published: September 2014

Aims. Relapsed high-grade gliomas (HGGs) have poor prognoses and there is no standard treatment. HGGs have ischemia/hypoxia associated and, as such, drugs and oxygen have low access, with increased resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Tumor hypoxia modification can improve outcomes and overall survival in some patients with these tumors. In previous works, we have described that cervical spinal cord stimulation can modify tumor microenvironment in HGG by increasing tumor blood flow, oxygenation, and metabolism. The aim of this current, preliminary, nonrandomized, study was to assess the clinical effect of spinal cord stimulation during brain reirradiation and chemotherapy deployed for the treatment of recurrent HGG; the hypothesis being that an improvement in oxygenated blood supply would facilitate enhanced delivery of the scheduled therapy. Materials and methods. Seven patients had spinal cord stimulation applied during the scheduled reirradiation and chemotherapy for the treatment of recurrent HGG (6 anaplastic gliomas and 1 glioblastoma). Median dose of previous irradiation was 60 Gy (range = 56-72 Gy) and median dose of reirradiation was 46 Gy (range = 40-46 Gy). Primary end point of the study was overall survival (OS) following confirmation of HGG relapse. Results. From the time of diagnosis of last tumor relapse before reirradiation, median OS was 39 months (95% CI = 0-93) for the overall study group: 39 months (95% CI = 9-69) for those with anaplastic gliomas and 16 months for the patient with glioblastoma. Posttreatment, doses of corticosteroids was significantly decreased ( P = .026) and performance status significantly improved ( P = .046). Conclusions. Spinal cord stimulation during reirradiation and chemotherapy is feasible and well tolerated. In our study, spinal cord stimulation was associated with clinical improvement and longer survival than previously reported in recurrent anaplastic gliomas. Spinal cord stimulation as adjuvant during chemotherapy and reirradiation in relapsed HGGs merits further research.
Renal Infarction Complicating Fibromuscular Dysplasia
Authors: Gavalas M. , Meisner R. , Labropoulos N. , Gasparis A. , Tassiopoulos A.
Published: September 2014

Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a nonatherosclerotic, noninflammatory vascular disease that most commonly affects the renal and extracranial carotid arteries. We present 3 cases of renal infarction complicating renal artery FMD in 42-, 43-, and 46-year-old females and provide a comprehensive review of the literature on this topic. In our patients, oral anticoagulation therapy was used to treat all cases of infarction, and percutaneous angioplasty was used nonemergently in one case to treat refractory hypertension. All patients remained stable at 1-year follow-up. This is consistent with outcomes in previously published reports where conservative medical management was comparable to surgical and interventional therapies. Demographic differences may also exist in patients with renal infarction and FMD. A higher prevalence of males and a younger age at presentation have been found in these patients when compared to the general population with FMD.
Using the Venom of a Snake for an Antidote: exploring strategies and services for sex workers in preparation for the World Cup 2014
Authors: Ewen Janine Elizabeth
Published: September 2014

Aims:

This article considers the public health implications that were predicted by sex workers a year prior to the FIFA World Cup 2014, with considerations towards the Olympic Games in 2016. Primary research conducted in 2013 in Brazil’s second largest city, Rio de Janeiro, gave sex workers and civil society organizations the opportunity to voice concerns of the everyday disadvantages faced by those involved in the sex industry, with emphasis on what could cause further detriments from acting as a double draw international sporting host. This research largely took place through invitation at the 2013 Rio State Conference on HIV/AIDS, Equality and Human Rights.

Methods:

Mixed methods research – pre-arrival questionnaires and interviews led by a semi-structured interview guide – was deemed suitable for the primary research collection. The use of the research software NVivo allowed data to be categorised into key themes to form the basis of this research article. Working with a Portuguese translator, case studies of transsexual sex workers and civil society organizations were developed.

Results:

Police violence was the main re-occurring theme expressed as a continued fear, alongside the added increase of security measures that the games would bring, to reduce organized crime, and through the Pacification programme. The majority of sex workers and organizations believed that there was no support from the Brazilian government to continue to provide services of high demand, including social care and legal assistance. Sex workers also felt prejudice in receiving HIV/AIDS treatment from government-led health services. A desirable outcome for the sex worker community would be for the government to consider the following: recommendations devised for further health and well being support; an act or law of non-violence against them; and recommendations to decimalize the sex industry.

Conclusions:

The Brazilian government has received global recognition for its response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, however the treatment based and contraception promotion does not extend itself to consider the social implications that put sex workers at huge public health risks, especially physical violence. This research provides an important case for explicit revisions of policies in Brazil regarding the health and safety of sex workers.
Diagnosis of cardiac metastasis from cervical cancer in a 33-year-old patient using multimodal imaging studies: a case report and literature review
Authors: Schawkat Khoschy , Hoksch Beatrix , Schwerzmann Markus , Puig Stefan , Klink Thorsten
Published: September 2014

We report a case of a 33-year-old woman with emergency admission due to dyspnoea and fever. History included squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix in complete remission. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) scanning of the chest, which was indicated to rule out pneumonia, revealed an infiltrative cardiac mass. Further assessment of the tumour by echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed transmural infiltration of the apical interventricular septum with a mass extending into the left and right ventricle cavities. The mass was highly suspicious for a cardiac metastasis. Cardiac metastases from cervical cancer are extremely rare. Recurrence of cervical carcinoma involving the heart should be considered even after a curative therapy approach. Non-invasive imaging plays a paramount role in investigating cardiac masses. Echocardiography, CT and MRI are complementary imaging modalities for complete work-up of intracardiac lesions.
A novel role for ezrin in breast cancer angio/lymphangiogenesis
Authors: Ghaffari Abdi , Hoskin Victoria , Szeto Alvin , Hum Maaike , Liaghati Navid , Nakatsu Kanji , Madarnas Yolanda , Sengupta Sandip , Elliott Bruce E
Published: September 2014

Introduction

Recent evidence suggests that tumour lymphangiogenesis promotes lymph node metastasis, a major prognostic factor for survival of breast cancer patients. However, signaling mechanisms involved in tumour-induced lymphangiogenesis remain poorly understood. The expression of ezrin, a membrane cytoskeletal crosslinker and Src substrate, correlates with poor outcome in a diversity of cancers including breast. Furthermore, ezrin is essential in experimental invasion and metastasis models of breast cancer. Ezrin acts cooperatively with Src in the regulation of the Src-induced malignant phenotype and metastasis. However, it remains unclear if ezrin plays a role in Src-induced tumour angio/lymphangiogenesis.

Methods

The effects of ezrin knockdown and mutation on angio/lymphangiogenic potential of human MDA-MB-231 and mouse AC2M2 mammary carcinoma cell lines were examined in the presence of constitutively active or wild-type (WT) Src. In vitro assays using primary human lymphatic endothelial cells (hLEC), an ex vivo aortic ring assay, and in vivo tumour engraftment were utilized to assess angio/lymphangiogenic activity of cancer cells.

Results

Ezrin-deficient cells expressing activated Src displayed significant reduction in endothelial cell branching in the aortic ring assay in addition to reduced hLEC migration, tube formation, and permeability compared to the controls. Intravital imaging and microvessel density (MVD) analysis of tumour xenografts revealed significant reductions in tumour-induced angio/lymphangiogenesis in ezrin-deficient cells when compared to the WT or activated Src-expressing cells. Moreover, syngeneic tumours derived from ezrin-deficient or Y477F ezrin-expressing (non-phosphorylatable by Src) AC2M2 cells further confirmed the xenograft results. Immunoblotting analysis provided a link between ezrin expression and a key angio/lymphangiogenesis signaling pathway by revealing that ezrin regulates Stat3 activation, VEGF-A/-C and IL-6 expression in breast cancer cell lines. Furthermore, high expression of ezrin in human breast tumours significantly correlated with elevated Src expression and the presence of lymphovascular invasion.

Conclusions

The results describe a novel function for ezrin in the regulation of tumour-induced angio/lymphangiogenesis promoted by Src in breast cancer. The combination of Src/ezrin might prove to be a beneficial prognostic/predictive biomarker for early-stage metastatic breast cancer.
Potentiometric determination of moxifloxacin in some pharmaceutical formulation using PVC membrane sensors
Authors: Hefnawy Mohammed M , Homoda Atef M , Abounassif Mohammed A , Alanazi Amer M , Al-Majed Abdulrahaman , Mostafa Gamal A
Published: September 2014

Background

The construction and electrochemical response characteristics of Poly (vinyl chloride) membrane sensors for moxifloxacin HCl (MOX) are described. The sensing membranes incorporate ion association complexes of moxifloxacin cation and sodium tetraphenyl borate (NaTPB) (sensor 1), phosphomolybdic acid (PMA) (sensor 2) or phosphotungstic acid (PTA) (sensor 3) as electroactive materials.

Results

The sensors display a fast, stable and near-Nernstian response over a relative wide moxifloxacin concentration range (1 × 10-2 - 4.0 × 10-6, 1 × 10-2 - 5.0 × 10-6, 1 × 10-2 - 5.0 × 10-6 M), with detection limits of 3 × 10-6, 4 × 10-6 and 4.0 × 10-6 M for sensor 1, 2 and 3, respectively over a pH range of 6.0 - 9.0. The sensors show good discrimination of moxifloxacin from several inorganic and organic compounds. The direct determination of 400 μg/ml of moxifloxacin show an average recovery of 98.5, 99.1 and 98.6% and a mean relative standard deviation of 1.8, 1.6 and 1.8% for sensors 1, 2 and 3 respectively.

Conclusions

The proposed sensors have been applied for direct determination of moxifloxacin in some pharmaceutical preparations. The results obtained by determination of moxifloxacin in tablets using the proposed sensors are comparable favorably with those obtained using the US Pharmacopeia method. The sensors have been used as indicator electrodes for potentiometric titration of moxifloxacin.
Trends in Medical Oncology Outreach Clinics in Rural Areas
Authors: Gruca Thomas S. , Nam Inwoo , Tracy Roger
Published: September 2014

The Affordable Care Act seeks to expand access for vulnerable populations—for example, the rural elderly—making it critical to better understand the existing system of rural cancer care delivery.
Oncologists' Response to New Data Regarding the Use of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitors in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Dotan Efrat , Li Tianyu , Hall Michael J. , Meropol Neal J. , Beck J. Robert , Wong Yu-Ning
Published: September 2014

The authors found that oncologists respond rapidly to new evidence and professional guidelines, and readily incorporate predictive biomarkers into clinical practice.