bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Q510E mutation in Shp2 perturbs heart valve development by increasing cell migration
Authors: Edwards Michelle A. , Crombie Kathryn , Schramm Christine , Krenz Maike
Published: October 2014

Tightly regulated cellular signaling is critical for correct heart valve development, but how and why signaling is dysregulated in congenital heart disease is not very well known. We focused on protein tyrosine phosphatase Shp2, because mutations in this signaling modulator frequently cause valve malformations associated with Noonan syndrome or Noonan syndrome with multiple lentigines (NSML). To model NSML-associated valve disease, we targeted overexpression of Q510E-Shp2 to mouse endocardial cushions (ECs) using a Tie2-Cre-based approach. At midgestation, Q510E-Shp2 expression increased the size of atrioventricular ECs by 80%. To dissect the underlying cellular mechanisms, we explanted ECs from chick embryonic hearts and induced Q510E-Shp2 expression using adenoviral vectors. Valve cell outgrowth from cultured EC explants into surrounding matrix was significantly increased by Q510E-Shp2 expression. Because focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is a critical regulator of cell migration, we tested whether FAK inhibition counteracts the Q510E-Shp2-induced effects in explanted ECs. The FAK/src inhibitor PP2 normalized valve cell outgrowth from Q510E-Shp2-expressing ECs. Next, chick ECs were further dissociated to assess cell proliferation and migration. Valve cell proliferation was not increased by Q510E-Shp2 as determined by label incorporation. In contrast, valve cell migration as reflected in a wound-healing assay was increased by Q510E-Shp2 expression, indicating that increased migration is the predominant effect of Q510E-Shp2 expression in ECs. In conclusion, PP2-sensitive signaling mediates the pathogenic effects of Q510E-Shp2 on cell migration in EC explant cultures. This suggests a central role for FAK and provides new mechanistic insight into the molecular basis of valve defects in NSML.
Microvascular dilation evoked by chemical stimulation of C-fibers in rats
Authors: Roberts Andrew M. , Yu Jerry , Joshua Irving G.
Published: October 2014

Activation of pulmonary C-fibers can reflexively decrease heart rate, blood pressure, and peripheral vascular resistance. However, the effects of these afferents on microvascular tone remain incompletely understood. In this study, we examined the effects of these afferents on microvascular tone in a striated muscle vascular bed. The right cremaster muscle in pentobarbital-anesthetized rats with intact circulation and innervation was suspended in a tissue bath, and diameters of small arterioles were measured by intravital video microscopy. Stimulation of pulmonary C-fibers by injecting capsaicin (5 μg/kg) or phenylbiguanide (20 μg/kg) into the right atrium dilated small arterioles and decreased blood pressure and heart rate. The effects persisted when the cervical vagus nerves were cooled to 5 to 7°C (blocking myelinated fibers), but were prevented by cooling to 0°C (blocking C-fibers and myelinated fibers), by cutting the genital femoral nerve (GFN) supplying the cremaster to block the nerve supply to the muscle, or by adding 6-hydroxydopamine to the bathing medium to selectively block sympathetic effects by depleting norepinephrine from adrenergic nerve terminals. Our results show that stimulation of pulmonary C-fibers reflexively dilates small arterioles in striated muscle by a mechanism that could involve withdrawal of sympathetic adrenergic tone. In conclusion, pulmonary C-fibers can exert an inhibitory influence on neural tone of the microcirculation at an important site where microvascular resistance and tissue blood flow are regulated.
Cables1 Complex Couples Survival Signaling to the Cell Death Machinery
Authors: Shi Zhi , Park Hae R. , Du Yuhong , Li Zijian , Cheng Kejun , Sun Shi-Yong , Li Zenggang , Fu Haian , Khuri Fadlo R.
Published: November 2014

Cables1 is a candidate tumor suppressor that negatively regulates cell growth by inhibiting cyclin-dependent kinases. Cables1 expression is lost frequently in human cancer but little is known about its regulation. Here, we report that Cables1 levels are controlled by a phosphorylation and 14-3-3–dependent mechanism. Mutagenic analyses identified two residues, T44 and T150, that are specifically critical for 14-3-3 binding and that serve as substrates for phosphorylation by the cell survival kinase Akt, which by binding directly to Cables1 recruits 14-3-3 to the complex. In cells, Cables1 overexpression induced apoptosis and inhibited cell growth in part by stabilizing p21 and decreasing Cdk2 kinase activity. Ectopic expression of activated Akt (AKT1) prevented Cables1-induced apoptosis. Clinically, levels of phosphorylated Cables1 and phosphorylated Akt correlated with each other in human lung cancer specimens, consistent with pathophysiologic significance. Together, our results illuminated a dynamic regulatory system through which activated Akt and 14-3-3 work directly together to neutralize a potent tumor suppressor function of Cables1. Cancer Res; 75(1); 147–58. ©2014 AACR.
IPH4102, a Humanized KIR3DL2 Antibody with Potent Activity against Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma
Authors: Marie-Cardine Anne , Viaud Nicolas , Thonnart Nicolas , Joly Rachel , Chanteux Stéphanie , Gauthier Laurent , Bonnafous Cécile , Rossi Benjamin , Bléry Mathieu , Paturel Carine , Bensussan Armand , Bagot Martine , Sicard Hélène
Published: October 2014

Advanced cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) remains an unmet medical need, which lacks effective targeted therapies. In this study, we report the development of IPH4102, a humanized monoclonal antibody that targets the immune receptor KIR3DL2, which is widely expressed on CTCL cells but few normal immune cells. Potent antitumor properties of IPH4102 were documented in allogeneic human CTCL cells and a mouse model of KIR3DL2+ disease. IPH4102 antitumor activity was mediated by antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity and phagocytosis. IPH4102 improved survival and reduced tumor growth in mice inoculated with KIR3DL2+ tumors. Ex vivo efficacy was further evaluated in primary Sézary patient cells, sorted natural killer–based autologous assays, and direct spiking into Sézary patient peripheral blood mononuclear cells. In these settings, IPH4102 selectively and efficiently killed primary Sézary cells, including at unfavorable effector-to-target ratios characteristic of unsorted PBMC. Together, our results offer preclinical proof of concept for the clinical development of IPH4102 to treat patients with advanced CTCL. Cancer Res; 74(21); 6060–70. ©2014 AACR.
T Cells Bearing a Chimeric Antigen Receptor against Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen Mediate Vascular Disruption and Result in Tumor Regression
Authors: Santoro Stephen P. , Kim Soorin , Motz Gregory T. , Alatzoglou Dimitrios , Li Chunsheng , Irving Melita , Powell Daniel J. , Coukos George
Published: October 2014

Aberrant blood vessels enable tumor growth, provide a barrier to immune infiltration, and serve as a source of protumorigenic signals. Targeting tumor blood vessels for destruction, or tumor vascular disruption therapy, can therefore provide significant therapeutic benefit. Here, we describe the ability of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)–bearing T cells to recognize human prostate–specific membrane antigen (hPSMA) on endothelial targets in vitro as well as in vivo. CAR T cells were generated using the anti-PSMA scFv, J591, and the intracellular signaling domains: CD3ζ, CD28, and/or CD137/4-1BB. We found that all anti-hPSMA CAR T cells recognized and eliminated PSMA+ endothelial targets in vitro, regardless of the signaling domain. T cells bearing the third-generation anti-hPSMA CAR, P28BBζ, were able to recognize and kill primary human endothelial cells isolated from gynecologic cancers. In addition, the P28BBζ CAR T cells mediated regression of hPSMA-expressing vascular neoplasms in mice. Finally, in murine models of ovarian cancers populated by murine vessels expressing hPSMA, the P28BBζ CAR T cells were able to ablate PSMA+ vessels, cause secondary depletion of tumor cells, and reduce tumor burden. Taken together, these results provide a strong rationale for the use of CAR T cells as agents of tumor vascular disruption, specifically those targeting PSMA. Cancer Immunol Res; 3(1); 68–84. ©2014 AACR.
Indocyanine Green-Enhanced Thermotherapy for Retinoblastoma
Authors: Al-Haddad Christiane E. , Abdulaal Marwan , Saab Raya H. , Bashshur Ziad F.
Published: October 2014

Purpose: To report the outcome of pediatric patients with retinoblastoma refractory to traditional local therapy who were treated with indocyanine green (ICG)-enhanced thermotherapy. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective review of a case series of 3 patients with bilateral retinoblastoma who were treated with ICG-enhanced thermotherapy after showing no response to conventional chemothermotherapy or transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT) alone noted on two consecutive examinations under anesthesia. Results: The 3 patients had had one eye enucleated previously due to advanced disease, and the remaining eye was diagnosed with a large tumor, which showed either a marginal or no response to systemic chemotherapy and TTT. Addition of ICG enhancement during the subsequent TTT session shrunk the tumor to a measurable size that could then be followed by TTT alone as a means of treatment. One patient had tumor recurrence, at which time additional TTT without ICG was successfully applied after the tumor size had decreased; ICG enhancement was then added whenever TTT alone provided no response. Conclusions: ICG enhancement with TTT led to a measurable tumor regression in lesions that had previously not been responsive to traditional chemothermotherapy or isolated TTT. Message: These tumors had shown a minimal to no response to previous TTT treatment. However, adding ICG resulted in a measurable regression even though the same TTT treatment parameters were applied. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
Homocysteine Accelerates Senescence of Endothelial Cells via DNA Hypomethylation of Human Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase
Authors: Zhang Donghong , Sun Xiaoli , Liu Jianlan , Xie Xina , Cui Wei , Zhu Yi
Published: October 2014

Objective—

Homocysteine can accelerate the senescence of endothelial progenitor cells or endothelial cells (ECs) via telomerase inactivation and length shortening. However, the underlying mechanism is unclear. Here, we investigated whether homocysteine promotes endothelial senescence by reducing the expression and activity of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) by DNA methylation to reduce ECs telomerase activity.

Approach and Results—

When compared with primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells grown under standard conditions, ECs with chronic homocysteine treatment showed accelerated upregulation of p16, p21, and p53, markers of cellular senescence, during 6 to 10 passages. Interestingly, homocysteine-stimulated but not angiotensin II–stimulated ECs senescence could be reversed by hypermethylation induced by folic acid or s-adenosylmethionine supplementation. Meanwhile, homocysteine promoted the shortening of telomere length specifically related to restoration of hTERT transcriptional expression and CCCTC-binding factor binding sites with hTERT promoter hypomethylation, as detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction, and bisulfite sequencing assay. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation results showed that homocysteine-reduced telomere activity and homocysteine-induced EC senescence might contribute to hTERT promoter demethylation by increasing CCCTC-binding factor repression and interfering in the SP1 binding to the demethylated hTERT promoter, which might relate with reduced of DNA methyltransferase 1. Furthermore, the CCCTC-binding factor–dependent mechanism of homocysteine-reduced hTERT expression via DNA demethylation was confirmed in aortic endothelia of mice with hyperhomocysteine levels.

Conclusions—

CCCTC-binding factor and SP1 cross talk may contribute to homocysteine-reduced hTERT DNA methylation and expression in endothelial senescence.
Enhanced Caspase Activity Contributes to Aortic Wall Remodeling and Early Aneurysm Development in a Murine Model of Marfan Syndrome
Authors: Emrich Fabian C. , Okamura Homare , Dalal Alex R. , Penov Kiril , Merk Denis R. , Raaz Uwe , Hennigs Jan K. , Chin Jocelyn T. , Miller Miquell O. , Pedroza Albert J. , Craig Juliana K. , Koyano Tiffany K. , Blankenberg Francis G. , Connolly Andrew J. , Mohr Friedrich W. , Alvira Cristina M. , Rabinovitch Marlene , Fischbein Michael P.
Published: October 2014

Objective—

Rupture and dissection of aortic root aneurysms remain the leading causes of death in patients with the Marfan syndrome, a hereditary connective tissue disorder that affects 1 in 5000 individuals worldwide. In the present study, we use a Marfan mouse model (
Fbn1
C1039G/+
) to investigate the biological importance of apoptosis during aneurysm development in Marfan syndrome.

Approach and Results—

Using in vivo single-photon emission computed tomographic-imaging and ex vivo autoradiography for Tc99m-annexin, we discovered increased apoptosis in the
Fbn1
C1039G/+
ascending aorta during early aneurysm development peaking at 4 weeks. Immunofluorescence colocalization studies identified smooth muscle cells (SMCs) as the apoptotic cell population. As biological proof of concept that early aortic wall apoptosis plays a role in aneurysm development in Marfan syndrome,
Fbn1
C1039G/+
mice were treated daily from 2 to 6 weeks with either (1) a pan-caspase inhibitor, Q-V
D
-OPh (20 mg/kg), or (2) vehicle control intraperitoneally. Q-V
D
-OPh treatment led to a significant reduction in aneurysm size and decreased extracellular matrix degradation in the aortic wall compared with control mice. In vitro studies using
Fbn1
C1039G/+
ascending SMCs showed that apoptotic SMCs have increased elastolytic potential compared with viable cells, mostly because of caspase activity. Moreover, in vitro (1) cell membrane isolation, (2) immunofluorescence staining, and (3) scanning electron microscopy studies illustrate that caspases are expressed on the exterior cell surface of apoptotic SMCs.

Conclusions—

Caspase inhibition attenuates aneurysm development in an
Fbn1
C1039G/+
Marfan mouse model. Mechanistically, during apoptosis, caspases are expressed on the cell surface of SMCs and likely contribute to elastin degradation and aneurysm development in Marfan syndrome.
Confluence of Depression and Acute Psychological Stress Among Patients With Stable Coronary Heart Disease: Effects on Myocardial Perfusion
Authors: Burg Matthew M. , Meadows Judith , Shimbo Daichi , Davidson Karina W. , Schwartz Joseph E. , Soufer Robert
Published: October 2014

Background

Depression is prevalent in coronary heart disease (
CHD
) patients and increases risk for acute coronary syndrome (
ACS
) recurrence and mortality despite optimal medical care. The pathways underlying this risk remain elusive. Psychological stress (PS) can provoke impairment in myocardial perfusion and trigger
ACS
. A confluence of acute PS with depression might reveal coronary vascular mechanisms of risk. We tested whether depression increased risk for impaired myocardial perfusion during acute PS among patients with stable
CHD
.

Methods and Results

Patients (N=146) completed the
B
eck
D
epression
I
nventory‐I (
BDI
‐I), a measure of depression linked to recurrent
ACS
and post‐
ACS
mortality, and underwent single‐photon emission computed tomography myocardial perfusion imaging at rest and during acute
PS
. The likelihood of new/worsening impairment in myocardial perfusion from baseline to
PS
as a function of depression severity was tested. On the
BDI
‐I, 41 patients scored in the normal range, 48 in the high normal range, and 57 in the depressed range previously linked to
CHD
prognosis. A
BDI
‐I score in the depressed range was associated with a significantly greater likelihood of new/worsening impairment in myocardial perfusion from baseline to
PS
(odds ratio =2.89, 95%
CI
: 1.26 to 6.63,
P
=0.012). This remained significant in models controlling
ACS
recurrence/mortality risk factors and medications. There was no effect for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor medications.

Conclusions

Depressed patients with
CHD
are particularly susceptible to impairment in myocardial perfusion during PS. The confluence of PS with depression may contribute to a better understanding of the depression‐associated risk for
ACS
recurrence and mortality.
Four Encounters with Sculpture
Authors: Tabet Rayyane
Published: October 2014

In Four Encounters with Sculpture, Rayyane Tabet combines found material and short diary entries to explore four encounters with places, objects, and events. The project attempts to question sculpture as concept and material.
Introduction to İsmail Saray's Leonardo da
Vinci
Authors: Demir Duygu
Published: October 2014

Aiming to contextualize Turkish artist İsmail Saray's artist book Leonardo da Vinci (1976), this text centers around the artist's educational formation and the early years of his artistic practice between the years of 1973–1980, when he was based in Turkey. Tracing key moments in this period including his participation in the Paris Biennial of 1977, the Yeni Eğilimler [New Trends in Art] exhibition of 1979 in Istanbul as well as his guest appearance in the exhibition Sanat Olarak Betik [Book as Art] organized by the conceptualist artist collective Sanat Tanım Topluluğu. This essay also gives a glimpse of the conditions under which artists were operating at the time, heavily influenced by the political developments in Turkey. The dematerialization of Saray's practice is traced through the artist books and his production on paper, including correspondence that led to the production of his artworks by fellow artists elsewhere, a phenomenon that awaits further investigation.
Leonardo da Vinci
Authors: Saray İsmail
Published: October 2014

Aiming to contextualize Turkish artist İsmail Saray's artist book Leonardo da Vinci (1976), this text centers around the artist's educational formation and the early years of his artistic practice between the years of 1973–1980, when he was based in Turkey. Tracing key moments in this period including his participation in the Paris Biennial of 1977, the Yeni Eğilimler [New Trends in Art] exhibition of 1979 in Istanbul as well as his guest appearance in the exhibition Sanat Olarak Betik [Book as Art] organized by the conceptualist artist collective Sanat Tanım Topluluğu. This essay also gives a glimpse of the conditions under which artists were operating at the time, heavily influenced by the political developments in Turkey. The dematerialization of Saray's practice is traced through the artist books and his production on paper, including correspondence that led to the production of his artworks by fellow artists elsewhere, a phenomenon that awaits further investigation.
Compensation of Research-Related Injuries in the European Union
Authors: Avilés Miguel Angel Ramiro
Published: October 2014

The planned reform of the Clinical Trials Directive has re-opened the debate over how to implement and interpret research-related injuries regulation. In the European Union (eu), clinical trials are currently regulated by Directive 2001/20/ec, which establishes the provision of mandatory insurance before clinical trials commence but is silent on the system of liability. The proposed new Regulation will impact biomedical research assurance in all eu Member States because it points to insurance costs as being one of the causes of the fall in the number of clinical trials carried out in the eu. Despite the adoption of a risk-balance approach, the proposed new Regulation does not include a no-fault compensation system to protect subjects participating in clinical trials. An adequate protection of the rights and wellbeing of trial subjects would require not only mandatory insurance for clinical trials but also a no-fault compensation system. The new regulation should include a general clause requiring mandatory insurance and establishing liability insurance based on no-fault compensation; an exception clause, enabling the performance of clinical trials without insurance in the case of low-risk interventions or non-commercial clinical trials; and an exclusion clause, excluding compensation when there is no causal connection between injuries and clinical trial.
Handling Unsolicited Findings in Clinical Care: A Legal Perspective
Authors: Ploem Corrette
Published: October 2014

In this article, the phenomenon of unsolicited findings will be explored in the context of European and Dutch legal standards. It focuses on the responsibilities of care providers, and the rights of patients’ when unsolicited findings are discovered during regular diagnostics. On the basis of the latter, I will suggest some guidelines for the handling of unsolicited findings in clinical care; in doing so, some attention will be paid to the research context.
New species and combinations in Meniscium (Thelypteridaceae)
Authors: Fernandes Rozijane Santos , Yesilyurt Jovita Cislinski , Salino Alexandre
Published: October 2014

Two new species of Meniscium, M. divergens and M. triangularis are described and illustrated. In addition, four new combinations, M. cocleanum, M. hostmannii, M. lanceum, and M. maxonianum and one lectotypification—M. hostmannii—are made in Meniscium.
CARLA MALDONADO, FINN BORCHSENIUS & CHARLOTTE M. TAYLOR
Authors: Maldonado Carla , BORCHSENIUS FINN , TAYLOR CHARLOTTE M.
Published: October 2014

The new species Elaeagia coriacea (Condamineeae, Rubiaceae), from southern Ecuador, is here described and illustrated. It differs from Elaeagia ecuadorensis in its abaxially papillate leaves and by the short obtuse calyx lobes.
Typifications in the genus Cicendia Adans. (Gentianaceae)
Authors: Çiçek Mehmet
Published: October 2014

Nomenclatural types are confirmed for the majority of names associated with Cicendia Adanson (Gentianaceae); and a lectotype is here designated for Cicendia stricta.
An Observational Study of the Effects of Dry Air Produced in Dissipating Convective Storms on the Predictability of Severe Weather
Authors: Bluestein Howard B. , Snyder Jeffrey C.
Published: October 2014

This paper documents features that led to major forecast errors on the 12–24-h time scale in the nature and location of severe weather in the southern plains on 30 May 2012. Evidence is presented that the forecast errors were the result of 1) dry air that originated in a region of dissipating, elevated convective storms, and which was advected in a narrow tongue into western Oklahoma, inhibiting convective initiation; 2) the development of a cyclone along the dryline in western Texas, to the east of which several supercells formed; 3) the upscale development of the supercells into a mesoscale convective system (MCS) at nightfall; and 4) the dissipation of an MCS that had formed along a cold front in southwestern Kansas and was propagating into northwestern Oklahoma, as it encountered dry, subsiding air underneath the stratiform precipitation region of the rear portion of the MCS farther south. There was a meridionally oriented swath of high winds in clear air, in between the two MCSs. This swath of high winds may have been associated with a bore triggered at night by the MCSs approaching from the north, as the MCS collapsed, producing a gust front that propagated through stable, low-level air. This case study illustrates how the predictability of severe weather in a region can be extremely sensitive to the details of where nearby convective storms form and how they evolve. It also highlights the likely importance of the accurate representation of cloud microphysics and dynamics in numerical forecast models on predictability.
Effect of Septoplasty With a Caudal Septal Batten Graft on Changes in Nasal Shape
Authors: Yi Jong Sook , Jang Yong Ju
Published: October 2014

Objective:

This study aimed to determine frequency of external nasal deformities in patients with deviated septa and the effect of endonasalseptoplasty with batten grafting on the external nasal appearance.

Methods:

The 52 patients who underwent endonasalseptoplasty with a batten graft for the correction of caudal septal deviations were included in the study. The preoperative and postoperative photographs of 52 patients were reviewed retrospectively. Gross changes (nasal deviation, dorsal middle vault height, tip height change, and nostril asymmetry) were assessed. Anthropometric measurements (dorsal height, nasal tip projection, nasolabial angle, nasofrontal angle, and deviation angle) were performed.

Results:

Preoperative assessment showed that 71% of the 52 patients had deformities, including nasal deviation (n = 28), hump nose (n = 19), saddle nose (n = 3), and nostril asymmetry (n = 15). On postoperative analysis, favorable changes in dorsal deviations were seen in 61% of patients. There were no aesthetic changes for hump or saddle nose deformities, whereas nostril asymmetry was corrected in 20% of patients. Anthropometric measurements also showed that dorsal deviation angles were corrected after surgery ( P < .05), whereas other parameters showed no significant changes.

Conclusion:

In selected cases, deviated noses can be corrected to some extent by septoplasty with caudal septal batten grafting.
Training in Mental Health Recovery and Social Justice in the Public Sector
Authors: Carr Erika R. , Bhagwat Ranjit , Miller Rebecca , Ponce Allison N.
Published: November 2014

Individuals who experience serious mental illness (SMI) frequently encounter stigma and disenfranchisement. Attention to this concern necessitates a social justice focus within the mental health field. This article explores the significance and critical foundations of a psychology training experience grounded in a social justice and recovery-oriented perspective to answer the call for a focus on social justice and empowerment for individuals with SMI in mental health recovery. A specific training program is highlighted as an example of how social justice and recovery-oriented psychology training can be conducted. It includes theoretical foundations, trainee and supervision factors, a training model, and a description of didactic, clinical, consultation, interdisciplinary, and recovery-initiative training experiences. Last, specific successes and challenges of this type of training experience, as well as recommendations for future program development, are shared.
Suicidal behavior during economic hard times
Authors: Elliott Marta , Naphan Dara E , Kohlenberg Barbara L
Published: October 2014

Background:

Most research on suicide is quantitative, and qualitative research is needed to reveal how individuals subjectively experience and account for suicidal behaviors.

Aims:

The aim of this study is to learn about the circumstances, motivations and consequences of suicidal behavior among individuals hospitalized for attempted suicide and suicidal ideation during the global economic recession.

Methods:

In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with in-patients hospitalized for suicidal behavior in a state-subsidized public mental hospital and analyzed with framework analysis.

Results:

Interpersonal conflict in the context of severe economic hardship and inadequate mental health care preceded suicidal behavior, rescue and a subsequent respite from desperate situations. Attempted suicide led to increased attention and concern from loved ones and immediate access to mental health care.

Conclusions:

Government-subsidized funding for outpatient mental health care should be sustained or increased during economic recessions to protect the most vulnerable from suicidal behavior when it is the only viable path toward immediate psychiatric treatment.
Home-made epoxy emulsion sizing agent for treating carbon fibers: Thermal stability and mechanical properties
Authors: Zhang Qingbo , Liu Li , Jiang Dawei , Yan Xingru , Huang Yudong , Guo Zhanhu
Published: October 2014

The thermal degradation kinetics of a home-made epoxy emulsion sizing agent for carbon fiber has been investigated by thermogravimetric analysis (TG). The thermal degradation activation energy, calculated by Flynn–Wall–Ozawa method and Friedman method, is in good agreement with each other, and the values are 214.03 and 220.87 kJ/mol, respectively. The reaction order n (4.7414) and frequency factor A (1.6906 × 1017) were determined by Friedman method. The studies by scanning electron microscope, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), tensile strength of single fiber and interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) revealed that the sizing agent had improved the content of oxygen-containing groups on carbon fiber, increased the tensile strength of single fiber, and effectively enhanced the interfacial properties of carbon fiber/epoxy composites.
Predicting Cancer Risks from Dental Computed Tomography
Authors: Wu T.-H. , Lin W.-C. , Chen W.-K. , Chang Y.-C. , Hwang J.-J.
Published: October 2014

Dental computed tomography (CT) has become a common tool when carrying out dental implants, yet there is little information available on its associated cancer risk. The objective of this study was to estimate the lifetime-attributable risk (LAR) of cancer incidence that is associated with the radiation dose from dental CT scans and to evaluate the effect of scan position, sex, and age on the cancer risk. This retrospective cohort study involved 505 participants who underwent CT scans. The mean effective doses for male and female patients in the maxilla group were 408 and 389 µSv ( P = 0.055), respectively, whereas the mean effective doses for male and female patients in the mandible groups were 475 and 450 µSv ( P < 0.001), respectively. The LAR for cancer incidence after mandible CT scanning varied from 1 in 16,196 for a 30-y-old woman to 1 in 114,680 for a 70-y-old man. The organ-specific cancer risks for thyroid cancer, other cancers, leukemia, and lung cancer account for 99% of the LAR. Among patients of all ages, the estimated LAR of a mandible scan was higher than that of a maxilla scan. Furthermore, the LAR for female thyroid cancer had a peak before age 45 y. The risk for a woman aged 30 y is roughly 8 times higher than that of a woman aged 50 y. After undergoing a dental CT scan, the possible cancer risks related to sex and age across various different anatomical regions are not similar. The greatest risk due to a dental CT scan is for a mandible scan when the woman is younger than 45 y. Given the limits of the sample size, machine parameters, and the retrospective nature of this study, the results need to be interpreted within the context of this patient population. Future studies will be of value to corroborate these findings.
Late complication after repair of aortic coarctation
Authors: Lemaire Anaïs , Cuttone Fabio , Desgué Julien , Ivascau Calin , Caprio Sabino , Saplacan Vladimir , Belin Annette , Babatasi Gérard
Published: October 2014

Background

Coarctation of the aorta is a congenital malformation that has long been considered completely correctable with appropriate surgery in childhood. However, with the aging of these patients, many late complications have been reported, and this notion must be reevaluated.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all patients who underwent reoperation between 1992 and 2012 in our adult cardiac surgery department following surgical correction of coarctation in childhood; 18 patients over 15-years old were included in the study.

Results

The median time from coarctation repair to reoperation was 25 years. Patients were reoperated on for several late complications: aortic valve disease secondary to bicuspid aortic valve, ascending aortic aneurysm, recoarctation, aortic arch hypoplasia, pseudoaneurysm, associated recoarctation and pseudoaneurysm, subvalvular aortic obstruction, and descending thoracic aortic aneurysm. One patient died due to an intraoperative complication. In the other cases, the surgical results were satisfactory at the 6-month follow-up. According to literature data, age at coarctation repair and surgical technique appear to be essential factors in late complications: older age and surgical repair with prosthesis interposition are associated with a higher rate of reintervention.

Conclusion

Patients who have undergone repair of aortic coarctation frequently remain asymptomatic for a long time. Late complications can be appropriately treated when diagnosed early. Consequently, all coarctation patients need careful lifelong follow-up, especially those with congenital aortic valve disease or surgery in childhood with interposition of prosthetic material.
Coronary collateral circulation in patients with chronic coronary total occlusion; its relationship with cardiac risk markers and SYNTAX score
Authors: Börekçi A , Gür M , Şeker T , Baykan AO , Özaltun B , Karakoyun S , Karakurt A , Türkoğlu C , Makça İ , Çaylı M
Published: October 2014

Background:

Compared to patients without a collateral supply, long-term cardiac mortality is reduced in patients with well-developed coronary collateral circulation (CCC). Cardiovascular risk markers, such as N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and high-sensitive cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) are independent predictors for cardiovascular mortality.

Objectives:

The main goal of this study was to examine the relationship between CCC and cardiovascular risk markers.

Methods:

We prospectively enrolled 427 stable coronary artery disease patients with chronic total occlusion (mean age: 57.5±11.1 years). The patients were divided into two groups, according to their Rentrop scores: (a) poorly developed CCC group (Rentrop 0 and 1) and (b) well-developed CCC group (Rentrop 2 and 3). NT-proBNP, hs-CRP, hs-cTnT, uric acid and other biochemical markers were also measured. The SYNTAX score was calculated for all patients.

Results:

The patients in the poorly developed CCC group had higher frequencies of diabetes and hypertension (p<0.05 for both). Compared to the well-developed CCC group, the SYNTAX score, Hs-cTnT, hs-CRP, NT-proBNP, uric acid, neutrophil count and mean platelet volume (MPV) values were higher in patients with poorly developed CCC (p<0.05 for all). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, hs-cTnT (β=0.658, 95% CI=0.589-0.735, p<0.001) and NT-proBNP (β=0.991, 95% CI=0.987-0.995, p<0.001) as well as hs-CRP and diabetes were independent predictors of CCC.

Conclusion:

Cardiac risk markers, such as NT-proBNP, hs-cTnT and hs-CRP are independently associated with CCC in stable coronary artery disease with chronic total occlusion.
Filler networking in the highly nanofilled systems
Authors: Kourki Hajir , Mortezaei Mehrzad , Navid Famili Mohammad Hossein
Published: October 2014

Filler networking is considered as the most important parameter in controlling the mechanical and rheological properties of highly filled systems. Besides, the interparticle distance as a function of filler size and concentration seems to be the main parameter to govern the filler network strength or filler–filler interaction. In this article, considering the importance of filler networking, estimation of the interparticle distance for different values of filler size and concentration, investigation of the architecture of filler network in the nanocomposite for various filler sizes as well as analysis of the effects of filler size and concentration on the dynamic behavior of the filler networks are discussed and atomic force microscopic imaging is used to investigate the filler network parameters. In addition to the proposed filler network structure, the results suggest that the rheological properties of nanocomposites in the linear region could be related to the interparticle distance independent of filler size and concentration. On the other hand, by studying the linear and nonlinear viscoelastic properties of these highly filled systems, the results indicate that an increase in loss and storage modulus would occur by increasing the filler concentration and reducing the filler size.
Contraction process of the circular tubes on the conical die: Theory and experiment
Authors: Siyahpoosh Payam , Niknejad Abbas
Published: October 2014

A new theoretical model of plastic behavior of circular metal tubes during the contraction process as a metal forming and energy absorber processes is presented in this study. Some theoretical relations are developed to predict the axial load versus the axial displacement of the contraction process, based on the theoretical model. Some quasi-static experiments were performed on circular aluminum and brazen tubes to validate the theoretical analysis. In this research, effects of tube radius, contraction ratio, tube wall thickness and angle of conical die on energy absorption characteristics of circular tubes under axial quasi-static loading are investigated by the experimental and theoretical methods. Results show that there is an admissible agreement between the theoretical results and experimental measurements. Experimental results show that there is a steady force during the end zone of the process which is an important factor in viewpoint of the energy absorption. Also, the steady force increases by increment of die semi-angle, tube radius, friction coefficient and the contraction ratio.
A Randomized Trial of Loading Vancomycin in the Emergency Department
Authors: Rosini Jamie M. , Laughner Julie , Levine Brian J. , Papas Mia A. , Reinhardt John F. , Jasani Neil B.
Published: October 2014

Background: Optimizing vancomycin dosing may help eradicate bacteria while avoiding resistance. The guidelines recommend loading doses; however, there are no data to demonstrate that this may result in a more rapid achievement of therapeutic troughs. Objective: To evaluate the percentage of troughs reaching therapeutic levels at 12, 24, and 36 hours following an initial vancomycin dose of 30 mg/kg compared with 15 mg/kg. Methods: This prospective, randomized study was performed in a community academic medical center. Patients who were to receive vancomycin in the emergency department were randomized to an initial traditional dose of 15 mg/kg or a 30-mg/kg loading dose followed by 15 mg/kg every 12 hours for 3 doses. Patients weighing >120 kg or with creatinine clearances <50 mL/min were excluded. Results: In total, 99 patients were enrolled; 12 hours after the initial dose of vancomycin, there was a significantly greater proportion of patients reaching target trough levels of 15 mg/L among the patients who received a loading dose as compared with a traditional dose (34% vs 3%, P < 0.01). This trend continued at 24 hours but was not statistically significant. At 36 hours, there was no difference in the percentage of patients reaching target levels between the 2 groups. No statistically significant difference in nephrotoxicity or adverse events among the 2 groups was demonstrated. Conclusion: A loading dose of 30 mg/kg of vancomycin achieved a higher percentage of therapeutic levels at 12 hours when compared with the traditional dose of 15 mg/kg, without increased nephrotoxicity or adverse events.
A Preliminary Safety Evaluation of Polyhexamethylene Guanidine Hydrochloride
Authors: Asiedu-Gyekye Isaac Julius , Mahmood Seidu Abdulai , Awortwe Charles , Nyarko Alexander Kwadwo
Published: October 2014

Polyhexamethylene guanidine hydrochloride (PHMGH) is used worldwide as an antimicrobial agent with broad spectra of activity and also for treating pool water. This non-GLP preliminary study aims at investigating in a subchronic toxicity study possible effects at supra-optimal doses of this biocide. Both acute and subchronic toxicity studies were conducted. LD50 for PHMGH was estimated to be 600 mg/kg (ie LC50 2 ml of 7.5% solution) when administered as a single dose by gavage via a stomach tube in accordance with the expected route of administration. The acute studies showed that the median lethal dose (LD50) of 600 mg/kg was accompanied by signs of neurotoxicity. Haematological and biochemical parameters of subchronic toxicity studies were non-significant. Subchronic doses of 0.006 mg/kg, 0.012 mg/kg and 0.036 mg/kg were administered. 20% of the animals at a dose of 0.006 mg/kg and 0.036 mg/kg showed mild degrees of hydropic changes in proximal tubules while 10% of animals at all the doses had their liver tissues showing local areas of mild pericentral hepatocytes degeneration. PHMGH did not produce any major organ defect with regard to the kidney, heart, and liver. The LD50 was much higher than the recommended dosage by a factor of about 50,000. The recommended residual concentration is far less than the median lethal dose using rats as test subjects. These results could serve as a basis for investigating the full toxicological profile if it is to be used for the treatment of raw water to make it potable.
Afterword: Troubling identities and identifications
Authors: Luibhéid Eithne
Published: October 2014

This article argues that the essays in the special issue on ‘Queer Migration, Asylum and Displacement’ collectively problematize how official identity categories trouble, and are troubled by, queer and asylum-seeking migrants. It discusses the future research and activist possibilities that these essays open up.
The queer time of death: Temporality, geopolitics, and refugee rights
Authors: Shakhsari Sima
Published: October 2014

Using the ethnographic data from interviews with the Iranian queer and transgender refugee applicants in Turkey, the UNHCR, and NGOs in Istanbul, Ankara, Denizli, Kayseri, and Nevsehir, I explore the way that refugee rights as a temporally and spatially contingent concept normalizes queer and transgender refugee subjects, while managing the lives and deaths of different populations. Through examining the chronopolitics and geopolitics of rights within the refugee discourse, I point to inconsistencies in the universality of human rights and argue that while the designation of an act as “violation of human rights” committed by states or citizens, is arbitrary and contingent on the place and time of the act, the recognition of the refugee in the human rights regimes relies on essentialist and timeless notions of identity that travel in the teleological time of progress. The Iranian queer and trans refugees in Turkey are suspended in an in-between zone of recognition where rightfulness and rightlessness come together in a temporal standstill. The “protection” of trans and queer refugees under the rhetoric of rights in this in-between zone is tied to the management of life and death of populations through the politics of rightful killing.
Documenting the undocumented: Toward a queer politics of no borders
Authors: White Melissa Autumn
Published: October 2014

This article explores the challenges of developing queer migrant justice strategies within nation-state contexts. With a focus on the Toronto-based ‘Let Alvaro Stay’ campaign (2011) and Julio Salgado’s collaborative ‘I Am Undocuqueer’ project, I critically examine queer anti-deportation activists’ reliance on methodological nationalisms and visibility politics in making claims hearable to the state. While such tactics risk reinforcing the nation-state as a primary site of identification, thereby contributing to its naturalization as an inevitable horizon of belonging, I argue that they also open space for imagining queer(er) no borders futures.
Investigating the effects of mechanical parameters of fluid, cantilever orientation, and tip position on the sensitivity of higher modes of atomic force microscope to sample stiffness in liquid medium
Authors: Damircheli Mehrnoosh
Published: October 2014

In this paper, the resonance frequency sensitivity of the first four bending modes of an atomic force microscope with rectangular cross section to the changes of sample stiffness in liquid environment has been investigated. The cantilever has been modeled by employing the Timoshenko beam model, and the hydrodynamic and the interaction forces between cantilever tip and sample have been included in the simulations. A comparison has been made between the frequency sensitivities of higher modes in air and liquid environments. The obtained results indicate that a greater sensitivity exists in air medium than in liquid medium. Moreover, since the frequency response of the atomic force microscope is influenced by the environment in which it is used, the effects of the fluid’s mechanical parameters on the sensitivity of higher modes have been explored. The findings indicate the major impact of density and minor impact of viscosity on the frequency sensitivity of higher modes. Next, the frequency sensitivities of higher modes in various liquids have been studied and compared with one another in order to provide a guideline for the users, so that they can excite the best mode to achieve the highest contrast with regards to sample stiffness and the operating environment. Finally, the effect of angle between cantilever and sample and the probe position on the sensitivity of higher modes in water has been investigated. With the increase of angle, the higher modes become sensitive for softer samples at a faster rate; and as the tip are moved away from the cantilever end, the sensitivity of the higher modes delays.
The World Wars through tabletop wargaming: An innovative approach to university history teaching
Authors: Reynaud Daniel , Northcote Maria
Published: November 2014

This article explores the experiences of a lecturer and students in a class on the World Wars, where wargaming is used alongside traditional lecturing as a learning experience. It outlines the processes used and then evaluates the various kinds of learning, historical and other, that occur. Drawing on literature associated with history education approaches, authentic learning, reflective practice, slow pedagogy and productive failure, the study’s methods track the students’ learning experiences across a semester in which they engage in a mixture of traditional learning experiences and authentic wargaming sessions. The paper concludes with the strengths and weaknesses of wargaming as a form of history pedagogy.
Strategic ethnography 2.0: Four methods for advancing strategy process and practice research
Authors: Vesa Mikko , Vaara Eero
Published: October 2014

Although slow to enter mainstream strategy research, ethnographic methods play an important role in studies of strategy processes and practices. In this article, however, we argue that the potential of “strategic ethnography” has not yet been fully realized. In particular, we maintain that there is a need to complement conventional non-participant, observation-based ethnography with other ethnographic methods. This leads us to suggest four methods that will help advance contemporary research in strategy processes and practices: auto-ethnography which can provide a better understanding of the lived experiences of different types of strategists in different settings; video-ethnography, which allows detailed analysis of strategic practices in their sociomaterial context; comparative ethnography, which enables comparison of processes and practices in different settings, and virtual ethnography, which will further our understanding of the virtual aspects of organizational strategy work.