bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Big Five Personality Factors and Leader Emergence in Virtual Teams
Authors: Cogliser Claudia C. , Gardner William L. , Gavin Mark B. , Broberg J. Christian
Published: October 2012

Using a sample of 243 undergraduate business students assigned to 71 virtual teams, this study explored the relationships between the Big Five personality factors, leader emergence, team trustworthiness, peer rated member performance contributions, and team performance. As predicted, agreeableness and conscientiousness were positively related to the task- and social-oriented dimensions of leader emergence, respectively. Contrary to expectations, emotional stability was not related to either dimension of leadership emergence. Evidence of the predicted relationships between emergent leadership and peer ratings of member contributions to team performance was obtained for task- but not social-oriented behaviors. At the team level, aggregated social-oriented leadership behaviors predicted aggregate perceptions of team trustworthiness. Only aggregated task-oriented emergent leadership behaviors predicted virtual team performance.
Neglect Subtypes, Race, and Poverty
Authors: Jonson-Reid Melissa , Drake Brett , Zhou Pan
Published: October 2012

Recent child maltreatment research has highlighted the very different context of poverty for Black and White children. Neglect is the most common form of maltreatment and strongly associated with poverty. Neglect is, however, not a unitary construct. We lack an understanding of whether reporting of and responding to different types of neglect may vary by poverty, race, or the intersection of the two. Administrative census, child welfare, welfare, health, and education data were used to examine how family and community poverty factors associate with various subtypes of neglect and subsequent case dispositions for Black and White children. Black children reported to child welfare reside in far poorer communities than Whites, even after taking into account family income (Aid to Families with Dependent Children [AFDC]/Temporary Aid to Needy Families [TANF]). Black children were more commonly reported and substantiated for severe and basic needs neglect. Community poverty indicators had a different relationship to report disposition for Black as compared to White children after controlling for neglect subtypes, child and family characteristics. Implications for practice and policy are discussed.
Knowledge differentially supports memory for nutrition information in later life
Authors: Miller Lisa M Soederberg , Zirnstein Megan , Chan Pauline K
Published: October 2012

We examined the extent to which prior knowledge about nutrition moderates age differences in remembering newly learned nutrition information. Younger and older adults with varying levels of knowledge read an article on fats and cholesterol and then completed a memory task. Participants responded to statements that were—or were not—presented in the text, which enabled us to examine memory accuracy overall as well as hits and memory errors. Results showed age differences were present in the low-knowledge group but not in the high-knowledge group. Findings illustrate the importance of knowledge for older adults’ memory for health information.
Design of the OPUS School Meal Study: A randomised controlled trial assessing the impact of serving school meals based on the New Nordic Diet
Authors: Damsgaard Camilla T. , Dalskov Stine-Mathilde , Petersen Rikke A. , Sørensen Louise B. , Mølgaard Christian , Biltoft-Jensen Anja , Andersen Rikke , Thorsen Anne V. , Tetens Inge , Sjödin Anders , Hjorth Mads F. , Vassard Ditte , Jensen Jørgen D. , Egelund Niels , Dyssegaard Camilla B. , Skovgaard Ib , Astrup Arne , Michaelsen Kim F.
Published: October 2012

Introduction: Danish children consume too much sugar and not enough whole grain, fish, fruit, and vegetables. The Nordic region is rich in such foods with a strong health-promoting potential. We lack randomised controlled trials that investigate the developmental and health impact of serving school meals based on Nordic foods. Aim: This paper describes the rationale, design, study population, and potential implications of the Optimal well-being, development and health for Danish children through a healthy New Nordic Diet (OPUS) School Meal Study. Methods: In a cluster-randomised cross-over design, 1021 children from 3rd and 4th grades (8–11 years old) at nine Danish municipal schools were invited to participate. Classes were assigned to two 3-month periods with free school meals based on the New Nordic Diet (NND) or their usual packed lunch (control). Dietary intake, nutrient status, physical activity, cardiorespiratory fitness, sleep, growth, body composition, early metabolic and cardiovascular risk markers, illness, absence from school, wellbeing, cognitive function, social and cultural features, food acceptance, waste, and cost were assessed. Results: In total, 834 children (82% of those invited) participated. Although their parents were slightly better educated than the background population, children from various socioeconomic backgrounds were included. The proportion of overweight and obese children (14%) resembled that of earlier examinations of Danish school children. Drop out was 8.3%. Conclusions: A high inclusion rate and low drop out rate was achieved. This study will be the first to determine whether school meals based on the NND improve children’s diet, health, growth, cognitive performance, and early disease risk markers.
Contribution of REN gene MBbo I polymorphism in conferring risk for essential hypertension: a case control study from South India
Authors: Vamsi U Mohana , Swapna N , Usha G , Vishnupriya S , Padma T
Published: October 2012

Background:

Renin is a rate-limiting enzyme of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) that plays a crucial role in the regulation of blood pressure. The renin gene has been suggested as a marker for genetic predisposition to essential hypertension (EHT) in humans. The purpose of the study is to explore the association of a genetic marker of renin gene Mbo I polymorphism with EHT in the South Indian population.

Methods:

A total of 279 hypertensive and 200 normotensive subjects were genotyped for REN Mbo I polymorphism (RFLP) using the PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism method.

Results:

There were no significant differences in the distribution of genotypes and alleles for REN gene Mbo I polymorphism between hypertensive cases and controls ( p>0.05). The genotypic and allele frequencies were in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium both in cases and controls. Females with Mbo I AA+GA genotypes had 1.87-fold higher risk to develop hypertension as compared with those with GG genotype (odds ratio 1.87; 95% confidence interval = 0.98–3.56, p = 0.057).

Conclusions:

Our results indicate that renin gene Mbo I site polymorphism is not associated with blood pressure levels and risk of hypertension. However, the present study demonstrates risk for females who are carriers of REN Mbo I A allele for developing essential hypertension.
An Experimental Test for “Backlash” Against Social Pressure Techniques Used to Mobilize Voters
Authors: Matland Richard E. , Murray Gregg R.
Published: October 2012

This research explores the possibility of psychological reactance, or “backlash,” against political candidates who use social pressure to mobilize voters. There is a compelling theoretical argument and solid empirical evidence suggesting social pressure substantially increases voter turnout. There is, however, equally noteworthy evidence suggesting social pressure frequently stimulates a negative reaction in targets. This research uses a lab-in-the-field experimental design that employs a hypothetical social pressure message to evaluate whether a candidate’s use of social pressure to turnout voters may increase anger and hostility toward that candidate, possibly to the point it increases the likelihood a citizen will actually vote against that candidate. Our findings indicate social pressure mobilization techniques evoke consequential psychological reactance against their sponsor. Until future research can further assess these effects, we suggest social pressure mobilization techniques should be used by campaigns only after careful consideration.
Study on effect of residual stress distributions on kinetics of static strain aging after cold rolling
Authors: Koohbor B , Serajzadeh S
Published: October 2012

In the present research, the effect of residual stress distribution on the static strain aging (SSA) phenomenon in cold rolled steel was investigated. A three-dimensional model was employed to evaluate the residual stress distributions within the rolled strips, and hole drilling experiments were also performed to verify the data obtained from the mathematical model. Hardness and tensile tests were then performed on the cold rolled samples at different temperatures and aging periods, and the results of these tests were utilised to assess SSA behaviour after different rolling programs. The results show that SSA occurs within the cold rolled steel in the employed aging period, and its kinetics is affected by residual hydrostatic stresses. Additionally, the variation in residual hydrostatic stress distribution due to deformation path, e.g. single- and two-pass rolling layouts, slightly affects the activation energy of SSA and changes the kinetics of SSA after cold rolling.
Transformation of precipitated phases in Zr50·5Cu34·5−xNi4Al11Agx alloy master ingots with adding Ag
Authors: Deng S T , Yan P F , Zhang H F , Wang A M , Hu Z Q
Published: October 2012

The transformation of precipitated phases of Zr50·5Cu34·5−xNi4Al11Agx alloy master ingots with Ag substitution of Cu was studied in detail by phase analysis. The precipitated (Zr–Cu) rich phases deteriorate the glass forming ability (GFA) of Zr50·5Cu34·5Ni4Al11. Two new (Zr–Cu) rich phases, A1 with bcc structure and a = 0·339 nm and A2 with fcc superlattice structure and a = 1·21 nm, were identified by a transmission electron microscope. When x = 2, A1 phase disappears, and A2 phase remains and is suppressed gradually with further Ag addition. When x = 13, one precipitated phase with Ag more than 13 at- begins to deteriorate GFA. In the view of chemistry, the precipitation of (Zr–Cu) rich phases means that the interaction between Cu and Zr atoms is rather drastic. The addition of Ag weakens the interaction between Cu and Zr. The similar competition mechanism proposed by the authors plays an important role in suppressing precipitated phases and improving GFAs.
Microstructure and micromechanism maps to optimise useful deformation processing conditions in magnesium alloy
Authors: Prasad B K , Narayan S P , Modi O P , Ramakrishnan N , Kumar A M , Sachdev A K
Published: October 2012

The present investigation examines the use of microstructure and micromechanism maps to develop a systematic understanding of the various microstructures that evolve in pure Mg and Mg–Al–Ce alloys during uniaxial compression deformation over a range of strain rates and temperatures. These maps further refine the safe deformation regimes that are predicted by dynamic materials modelling maps (or process modelling), which are based on efficiency of power dissipation for microstructure evolution η and the instability parameter Σ([Formula: see text] ). Operating mechanisms such as dynamic recrystallisation, cracking, twinning and grain coarsening are identified through careful microstructural analysis and mapped as a matrix at appropriate locations on a two-dimensional strain rate–temperature map. The study demonstrates that while conventional process maps delineate safe and unsafe working regimes based on power dissipation, it is the use of the microstructure and micromechanism maps in conjunction with the process maps that provide a more accurate and comprehensive picture of the processing window, which should be used for producing materials with certain defined end use. The process maps developed have been validated with a limited number of extrusion trials on pure Mg and Mg–Al–Ce alloys.
Influence of neodymium on microstructure and mechanical properties of AZ31B wrought magnesium alloy
Authors: Ren F Z , Li D J , Liu P , Zhao S Y , Su J H , Ma Z H , Tian B H
Published: October 2012

The influences of rare earth neodymium on microstructure and mechanical properties of as cast and hot rolled AZ31B wrought magnesium alloy were investigated. The results show that the mechanical properties of both as cast and hot rolled AZ31B alloys decrease due to Nd addition. Nd reacts with Al to form Al2Nd phase when Nd is added. Bulky and brittle Al2Nd intermetallic degrades the mechanical properties. Moreover, the addition of Nd weakens the grain refining effect of Al on as cast AZ31B alloy, resulting in grain coarsening. Coarse grains also cause the decline of the mechanical properties of as cast AZ31B–Nd alloy. The negative influence of the bulky and brittle intermetallics on mechanical properties of AZ31B alloy can be relieved by large deformation because the intermetallics can be sufficiently broken up during the deformation process.
Microstructure and properties of nc-TiC/a-C∶H films deposited by radio frequency reactive sputtering
Authors: Liu X Q , Yang J , Hao J Y , Liu W M
Published: October 2012

Amorphous carbon films containing titanium carbide (nc-TiC/a-C∶H) were deposited onto n-type silicon (100) by radio frequency reactive sputtering titanium target in an Ar–CH4 mixed atmosphere. The composition and microstructure of the films were characterised by means of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, field emitted SEM, XRD and Raman spectra. The mechanical and tribological properties of the films were measured by a nanoindentation tester and a ball-on-disc UMT–2MT tribometer. By adjusting the CH4 flowrate, Ti content in the films could be controlled, and a transition in structures of the films from loose polymer-like to glassy and dense nanostructure was observed. The density of coatings was improved by the introduction of TiC nanocrystalline particles. The mechanical and lubricious properties were different accordingly.
Microstructure evolution of friction welded dissimilar joint during subsequent hot work
Authors: Tan L J , Yao Z K , Wang T , Guo H Z , Yang X
Published: October 2012

The present paper reports the influence of hot working conditions on the microstructure of Ti2AlNb/TC11 dissimilar joint. Linear friction welding technique was used to fabricate the joints. The microhardness and tensile properties of the joints have been tested. It was found that the fine structure of linear friction welds underwent abnormal grain growth and abnormal grain boundary phase growth in the post-weld solution heat treated condition. This phenomenon significantly deteriorated the ductility of the joint. After appropriate hot work, abnormal big grains/phases disappeared, and the joint exhibited good tensile properties due to its fine structures.
Selective laser melting of in situ TiN–Ti5Si3 composites with RE–Si–Fe addition: comparative study
Authors: Gu D D , Liu J , Meng G B , Li C , Li Y F , Shen Y F
Published: October 2012

A comparative study was conducted to investigate the influence of rare earth (RE)–Si–Fe addition on the microstructures and tribological properties of in situ TiN–Ti5Si3 composites prepared by selective laser melting (SLM). With the addition of 3 wt- RE–Si–Fe, the shape of in situ TiN reinforcing particles became rounded and smoothened, the particle size was refined and the dispersion state was homogenised. Relative to TiN–Ti5Si3 composites without RE addition, the average friction coefficient of SLM processed RE containing composites decreased from 0·85 to 0·55, and the resultant wear rate decreased from 3·79×10−4 to 2·65×10−4 mm3 N−1m−1. Metallurgical functions of the RE elements in improving the SLM processability and the resultant wear performance of in situ composites were elucidated.
Influence of peritectic phase transformation on hot ductility of high aluminium TRIP steels containing Nb
Authors: Tuling A , Banerjee J R , Mintz B
Published: October 2012

Increasing Al from 0·05 to 1 in Nb containing transformation induced plasticity steel resulted in deepening and considerable widening of the hot ductility trough. Further increase in the Al level to 1·5 produced a trough similar to the low Al steel but having better ductility in the temperature range of 650–800°C. This improved ductility could be ascribed to its finer austenite grain size. Nb(CN) was able to precipitate readily in these steels and was important in influencing the hot ductility of the 0·05 and 1·5Al steel in the temperature range of 750–1000°C, with ductility improving as the particle size increased with test temperature. No AlN was found in 0·05Al containing steel, and there was no significant dendritic precipitation of AlN in 1·5Al containing steel, although precipitation of AlN in plate form was readily observed. In 1Al steel, copious dendritic precipitation of AlN was present at the γ grain boundaries, leading to rock candy fracture. The poor ductility shown in 1Al containing steel is due to a combination of this dendritic precipitation, which took place only in a steel of peritectic carbon composition, and its coarse grain size. Both low and 1·5Al containing steels had compositions outside the peritectic range. It is strongly advised that for this type of steel, the composition should be designed to fall outside the peritectic carbon range.
Identifying breast cancer risk loci by global differential allele-specific expression (DASE) analysis in mammary epithelial transcriptome
Authors: Gao Chuan , Devarajan Karthik , Zhou Yan , Slater Carolyn M , Daly Mary B , Chen Xiaowei
Published: October 2012

Background

The significant mortality associated with breast cancer (BCa) suggests a need to improve current research strategies to identify new genes that predispose women to breast cancer. Differential allele-specific expression (DASE) has been shown to contribute to phenotypic variables in humans and recently to the pathogenesis of cancer. We previously reported that nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) could lead to DASE ofBRCA1/2,which is associated with elevated susceptibility to breast cancer. In addition to truncation mutations, multiple genetic and epigenetic factors can contribute to DASE, and we propose that DASE is a functional index forcis-acting regulatory variants and pathogenic mutations, and that global analysis of DASE in breast cancer precursor tissues can be used to identify novel causative alleles for breast cancer susceptibility.

Results

To test our hypothesis, we employed the Illumina® Omni1-Quad BeadChip in paired genomic DNA (gDNA) and double-stranded cDNA (ds-cDNA) samples prepared from eight BCa patient-derived normal mammary epithelial lines (HMEC). We filtered original array data according to heterozygous genotype calls and calculated DASE values using the Log ratio of cDNA allele intensity, which was normalized to the corresponding gDNA. We developed two statistical methods, SNP- and gene-based approaches, which allowed us to identify a list of 60 candidate DASE loci (DASE ≥ 2.00,P≤ 0.01, FDR ≤ 0.05) by both methods. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis of DASE loci revealed one major breast cancer-relevant interaction network, which includes two known cancer causative genes,ZNF331(DASE = 2.31,P= 0.0018, FDR = 0.040) andUSP6(DASE = 4.80,P= 0.0013, FDR = 0.013), and a breast cancer causative gene,DMBT1(DASE=2.03,P= 0.0017, FDR = 0.014). Sequence analysis of a 5′ RACE product ofDMBT1demonstrated thatrs2981745,a putative breast cancer risk locus, appears to be one of the causal variants leading to DASE inDMBT1.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated for the first time that global DASE analysis is a powerful new approach to identify breast cancer risk allele(s).
Effects of manganese on routine semen quality parameters: results from a population-based study in China
Authors: Li Yuyan , Wu Junqing , Zhou Weijin , Gao Ersheng
Published: October 2012

Background

Manganese (Mn) is an essential element in humans but its effect on semen quality is unclear. This study therefore aimed to assess the effects of Mn on semen quality in healthy men with no occupational exposure to Mn.

Methods

Semen samples were obtained from healthy Chinese men 20–59 years old who were recruited from six provinces in China. Individuals with urogenital tract diseases, tuberculosis, or occupational exposure to heavy metals were excluded. A questionnaire survey was conducted, and the external genitalia, semen quality, and serum Mn levels were examined.

Results

A total of 1,179 volunteers were enrolled in this study. The median serum Mn concentration was 8.2 μg/L (25th percentile (P25)=3.7 μg/L, P75=16.2μg/L). After adjusted area (six provinces), abstinence interval, season, registered residence, age of subjects, education level, income, smoking, and drinking, the risk of teratospermia was increased at serum Mn concentrations >19.40 μg/L (P80) group, with an adjusted odds ratio of 2.27 (95% confidence interval: 1.18–4.37).

Conclusion

High serum Mn levels appeared to have harmful effects on sperm morphology and motility among healthy men with no occupational exposure to Mn.
Student tutors for hands-on training in focused emergency echocardiography – a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kühl Matthias , Wagner Robert , Bauder Markus , Fenik Yelena , Riessen Reimer , Lammerding-Köppel Maria , Gawaz Meinrad , Fateh-Moghadam Suzanne , Weyrich Peter , Celebi Nora
Published: October 2012

Background

Focused emergency echocardiography performed by non-cardiologists has been shown to be feasible and effective in emergency situations. During resuscitation a short focused emergency echocardiography has been shown to narrow down potential differential diagnoses and to improve patient survival. Quite a large proportion of physicians are eligible to learn focused emergency echocardiography. Training in focused emergency echocardiography usually comprises a lecture, hands-on trainings in very small groups, and a practice phase. There is a shortage of experienced echocardiographers who can supervise the second step, the hands-on training. We thus investigated whether student tutors can perform the hands-on training for focused emergency echocardiography.

Methods

A total of 30 volunteer 4th and 5th year students were randomly assigned to a twelve-hour basic echocardiography course comprising a lecture followed by a hands-on training in small groups taught either by an expert cardiographer (EC) or by a student tutor (ST). Using a pre-post-design, the students were evaluated by an OSCE. The students had to generate two still frames with the apical five-chamber view and the parasternal long axis in five minutes and to correctly mark twelve anatomical cardiac structures. Two blinded expert cardiographers rated the students’ performance using a standardized checklist. Students could achieve a maximum of 25 points.

Results

Both groups showed significant improvement after the training (p < .0001). In the group taught by EC the average increased from 2.3±3.4 to 17.1±3.0 points, and in the group taught by ST from 2.7±3.0 to 13.9±2.7 points. The difference in improvement between the groups was also significant (p = .03).

Conclusions

Hands-on training by student tutors led to a significant gain in echocardiography skills, although inferior to teaching by an expert cardiographer.
Educational application for visualization and analysis of electric field strength in multiple electrode electroporation
Authors: Mahnič-Kalamiza Samo , Kotnik Tadej , Miklavčič Damijan
Published: October 2012

Background

Electrochemotherapy is a local treatment that utilizes electric pulses in order to achieve local increase in cytotoxicity of some anticancer drugs. The success of this treatment is highly dependent on parameters such as tissue electrical properties, applied voltages and spatial relations in placement of electrodes that are used to establish a cell-permeabilizing electric field in target tissue. Non-thermal irreversible electroporation techniques for ablation of tissue depend similarly on these parameters. In the treatment planning stage, if oversimplified approximations for evaluation of electric field are used, such as U/d (voltage-to-distance ratio), sufficient field strength may not be reached within the entire target (tumor) area, potentially resulting in treatment failure.

Results

In order to provide an aid in education of medical personnel performing electrochemotherapy and non-thermal irreversible electroporation for tissue ablation, assist in visualizing the electric field in needle electrode electroporation and the effects of changes in electrode placement, an application has been developed both as a desktop- and a web-based solution. It enables users to position up to twelve electrodes in a plane of adjustable dimensions representing a two-dimensional slice of tissue. By means of manipulation of electrode placement, i.e. repositioning, and the changes in electrical parameters, the users interact with the system and observe the resulting electrical field strength established by the inserted electrodes in real time. The field strength is calculated and visualized online and instantaneously reflects the desired changes, dramatically improving the user friendliness and educational value, especially compared to approaches utilizing general-purpose numerical modeling software, such as finite element modeling packages.

Conclusion

In this paper we outline the need and offer a solution in medical education in the field of electroporation-based treatments, e.g. primarily electrochemotherapy and non-thermal irreversible tissue ablation. We present the background, the means of implementation and the fully functional application, which is the first of its kind. While the initial feedback from students that have evaluated this application as part of an e-learning course is positive, a formal study is planned to thoroughly evaluate the current version and identify possible future improvements and modifications.
Effects of corticosteroid on the expressions of neuropeptide and cytokine mRNA and on tenocyte viability in lateral epicondylitis
Authors: Han Soo Hong , An Hee Jung , Song Ji Ye , Shin Dong Eun , Kwon Young Do , Shim Jong Sup , Lee Soon Chul
Published: October 2012

Background

The purpose of this study was to determine the reaction mechanism of corticosteroid by analyzing the expression patterns of neuropeptides (substance P (SP), calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP)) and of cytokines (interleukin (IL)-1α, tumor growth factor (TGF)-β) after corticosteroid treatment in lateral epicondylitis. In addition, we also investigated whether corticosteroid influenced tenocyte viability.

Methods

The corticosteroid triamcinolone acetonide (TAA) was applied to cultured tenocytes of lateral epicondylitis, and the changes in the mRNA expressions of neuropeptides and cytokines and tenocyte viabilities were analyzed at seven time points. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and an MTT assay were used.

Results

The expression of SP mRNA was maximally inhibited by TAA at 24 hours but recovered at 72 hours, and the expressions of CGRP mRNA and IL-1α mRNA were inhibited at 24 and 3 hours, respectively. The expression of TGF-β mRNA was not significant. Tenocyte viability was significantly reduced by TAA at 24 hours.

Conclusions

We postulate that the reaction mechanism predominantly responsible for symptomatic relief after a corticosteroid injection involves the inhibitions of neuropeptides and cytokines, such as, CGRP and IL-1α. However the tenocyte viability was compromised by a corticosteroid.
TREM-1: intracellular signaling pathways and interaction with pattern recognition receptors
Authors: Arts Rob J W , Joosten Leo A B , van der Meer Jos W M , Netea Mihai G
Published: October 2012

Review of the intracellular pathway of TREM-1 signaling, its interactions with PRR pathways, focusing on TLRs and NLRs.

TREM-1 is an important signaling receptor expressed on neutrophils and monocytes that plays an important role in systemic infections. Here, we review the intracellular signaling pathways that mediate the immunological effects of TREM-1. Because of the absence of signaling motifs, TREM-1 constitutively associates with DAP12 for induction of intracellular signals. After phosphorylation of DAP12, production of chemokines and cytokines is induced. Moreover, TREM-1 also modulates signaling pathways induced by known classes of PRRs, such as TLRs and NLRs. The exact mechanisms through which TREM-1 influences TLR and NLR pathways are still largely elusive.
Thrombin-induced CCN2 expression in human lung fibroblasts requires the c-Src/JAK2/STAT3 pathway
Authors: Bai Kua-Jen , Chen Bing-Chang , Pai Hui-Chen , Weng Chih-Ming , Yu Chung-Chi , Hsu Ming-Jen , Yu Ming-Chih , Ma Hon-Ping , Wu Chih-Hsiung , Hong Chuang-Ye , Kuo Min-Liang , Lin Chien-Huang
Published: October 2012

Thrombin might activate c-Src to induce JAK2 activation, which causes STAT3 activation, inducing CCN2 expression in human lung fibroblasts.

Thrombin is a multifunctional serine protease and an important fibrotic mediator that induces CCN2 expression. We previously showed that thrombin induces CCN2 expression via an ASK1-dependent JNK/AP-1 pathway in human lung fibroblasts. In this study, we further investigated the roles of c-Src, JAK2, and STAT3 in thrombin-induced CCN2 expression. Thrombin-induced CCN2 expression and CCN2-Luc activity were attenuated by a JAK inhibitor (AG490) and JAK2DN, STAT3DN, and the STAT decoy ODN. Moreover, transfection of cells with a CCN2-mtSTAT-Luc construct inhibited thrombin-induced CCN2-Luc activity. Treatment of cells with thrombin caused JAK2 phosphorylation at Tyr1007/1008 and STAT3 phosphorylation at Tyr705 in time-dependent manners. Thrombin-induced STAT3 phosphorylation was inhibited by AG490 and JAK2DN. Thrombin-induced STAT3 binding to the CCN2 promoter was analyzed by a DNA-binding affinity pull-down assay. In addition, thrombin-induced CCN2 expression and CCN2-Luc activity were inhibited by c-SrcDN and PP2 (an Src inhibitor). Transfection of cells with c-SrcDN also inhibited thrombin-induced JAK2 and STAT3 phosphorylation. Taken together, these results indicate that thrombin might activate c-Src to induce JAK2 activation, which in turn, causes STAT3 activation, and finally induces CCN2 expression in human lung fibroblasts.
Symptomatic Treatment With Lanreotide Microparticles in Inoperable Bowel Obstruction Resulting From Peritoneal Carcinomatosis: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Phase III Study
Authors: Mariani Pascale , Blumberg Joëlle , Landau Alain , Lebrun-Jezekova Daniela , Botton Estelle , Beatrix Olivier , Mayeur Didier , Herve Robert , Maisonobe Pascal , Chauvenet Laure
Published: October 2012

Purpose

To investigate the somatostatin analog lanreotide as symptomatic treatment for inoperable bowel obstruction due to peritoneal carcinomatosis.

Patients and Methods

In all, 80 patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis, inoperable malignant digestive obstruction, and two or more vomiting episodes per day or nasogastric tube (NGT) who were previously treated with intravenous corticosteroids and proton pump inhibitors were randomly assigned to one 30-mg injection of lanreotide microparticles (n = 43) or placebo (n = 37) in a 10-day, double-blind, parallel-group phase. The primary end point was the proportion of patients responding on day 7 (one or fewer episodes of vomiting per day or no vomiting recurrence after NGT removal [for ≥ 3 consecutive days in both cases]). Vomiting frequency/NGT secretion volumes, nausea, abdominal pain, well-being, and safety were also assessed. Patients could then enter an open-label lanreotide-only phase. The study was conducted at 22 European hospitals.

Results

More patients receiving lanreotide than placebo were responders; this difference was not statistically significant for the intent-to-treat (ITT) population on the basis of diary cards (primary analysis; 41.9% [18 of 43] v 29.7% [11 of 37], respectively; odds ratio, 1.75; 95% CI, 0.68 to 4.49; P = .24) but was statistically significant for the corresponding supportive per protocol analysis (57.7% [15 of 26] v 30.4% [seven of 23]; P < .05) and ITT analysis, on the basis of investigators' assessments (50.0% [19 of 38] v 28.6% [10 of 35]; P < .05). Improvements in well-being were significantly greater with lanreotide on days 3, 6, and 7. No significant differences were observed for other secondary end points. Only two (mild/moderate) treatment-emergent adverse events were considered related to lanreotide.

Conclusion

These results show that lanreotide has some efficacy and is safe in the symptomatic treatment of patients with inoperable bowel obstruction due to peritoneal carcinomatosis.
CHEK2*1100delC Heterozygosity in Women With Breast Cancer Associated With Early Death, Breast Cancer–Specific Death, and Increased Risk of a Second Breast Cancer
Authors: Weischer Maren , Nordestgaard Børge G. , Pharoah Paul , Bolla Manjeet K. , Nevanlinna Heli , van't Veer Laura J. , Garcia-Closas Montserrat , Hopper John L. , Hall Per , Andrulis Irene L. , Devilee Peter , Fasching Peter A. , Anton-Culver Hoda , Lambrechts Diether , Hooning Maartje , Cox Angela , Giles Graham G. , Burwinkel Barbara , Lindblom Annika , Couch Fergus J. , Mannermaa Arto , Grenaker Alnæs Grethe , John Esther M. , Dörk Thilo , Flyger Henrik , Dunning Alison M. , Wang Qin , Muranen Taru A. , van Hien Richard , Figueroa Jonine , Southey Melissa C. , Czene Kamila , Knight Julia A. , Tollenaar Rob A.E.M. , Beckmann Matthias W. , Ziogas Argyrios , Christiaens Marie-Rose , Collée Johanna Margriet , Reed Malcolm W.R. , Severi Gianluca , Marme Frederik , Margolin Sara , Olson Janet E. , Kosma Veli-Matti , Kristensen Vessela N. , Miron Alexander , Bogdanova Natalia , Shah Mitul , Blomqvist Carl , Broeks Annegien , Sherman Mark , Phillips Kelly-Anne , Li Jingmei , Liu Jianjun , Glendon Gord , Seynaeve Caroline , Ekici Arif B. , Leunen Karin , Kriege Mieke , Cross Simon S. , Baglietto Laura , Sohn Christof , Wang Xianshu , Kataja Vesa , Børresen-Dale Anne-Lise , Meyer Andreas , Easton Douglas F. , Schmidt Marjanka K. , Bojesen Stig E.
Published: October 2012

Purpose

We tested the hypotheses that CHEK2*1100delC heterozygosity is associated with increased risk of early death, breast cancer–specific death, and risk of a second breast cancer in women with a first breast cancer.

Patients and Methods

From 22 studies participating in the Breast Cancer Association Consortium, 25,571 white women with invasive breast cancer were genotyped for CHEK2*1100delC and observed for up to 20 years (median, 6.6 years). We examined risk of early death and breast cancer–specific death by estrogen receptor status and risk of a second breast cancer after a first breast cancer in prospective studies.

Results

CHEK2*1100delC heterozygosity was found in 459 patients (1.8%). In women with estrogen receptor–positive breast cancer, multifactorially adjusted hazard ratios for heterozygotes versus noncarriers were 1.43 (95% CI, 1.12 to 1.82; log-rank P = .004) for early death and 1.63 (95% CI, 1.24 to 2.15; log-rank P < .001) for breast cancer–specific death. In all women, hazard ratio for a second breast cancer was 2.77 (95% CI, 2.00 to 3.83; log-rank P < .001) increasing to 3.52 (95% CI, 2.35 to 5.27; log-rank P < .001) in women with estrogen receptor–positive first breast cancer only.

Conclusion

Among women with estrogen receptor–positive breast cancer, CHEK2*1100delC heterozygosity was associated with a 1.4-fold risk of early death, a 1.6-fold risk of breast cancer–specific death, and a 3.5-fold risk of a second breast cancer. This is one of the few examples of a genetic factor that influences long-term prognosis being documented in an extensive series of women with breast cancer.
Clinical Outcome of the ACCORD 12/0405 PRODIGE 2 Randomized Trial in Rectal Cancer
Authors: Gérard Jean-Pierre , Azria David , Gourgou-Bourgade Sophie , Martel-Lafay Isabelle , Hennequin Christophe , Etienne Pierre-Luc , Vendrely Véronique , François Eric , de La Roche Guy , Bouché Olivier , Mirabel Xavier , Denis Bernard , Mineur Laurent , Berdah Jean-François , Mahé Marc-André , Bécouarn Yves , Dupuis Olivier , Lledo Gérard , Seitz Jean-François , Bedenne Laurent , Juzyna Béata , Conroy Thierry
Published: October 2012

Purpose

The ACCORD 12 trial investigated the value of two different preoperative chemoradiotherapy (CT-RT) regimens in T3-4 Nx M0 resectable rectal cancer. Clinical results are reported after follow-up of 3 years.

Patients and Methods

Between November 2005 and July 2008, a total of 598 patients were randomly assigned to preoperative CT-RT with CAP45 (45-Gy RT for 5 weeks with concurrent capecitabine) or CAPOX50 (50-Gy RT for 5 weeks with concurrent capecitabine and oxaliplatin). Total mesorectal excision was planned 6 weeks after CT-RT. The primary end point was sterilization of the operative specimen, which was achieved in 13.9% versus 19.2% of patients, respectively (P = .09). Clinical results were analyzed for all randomly assigned patients according to the intention-to-treat principle.

Results

At 3 years, there was no significant difference between CAP45 and CAPOX50 (cumulative incidence of local recurrence, 6.1% v 4.4%; overall survival, 87.6% v 88.3%; disease-free survival, 67.9% v 72.7%). Grade 3 to 4 toxicity was reported in four patients in the CAP45 group and in two patients in the CAPOX50 group. Bowel continence, erectile dysfunction, and social life disturbance were not different between groups. In multivariate analysis, the sterilization rate (Dworak score) of the operative specimen was the main significant prognostic factor (hazard ratio, 0.32; 95% CI, 0.21 to 0.50).

Conclusion

At 3 years, no significant difference in clinical outcome was achieved with the intensified CAPOX regimen. When compared with other recent randomized trials, these results indicate that concurrent administration of oxaliplatin and RT is not recommended.
Referral Practices of Oncologists to Specialized Palliative Care
Authors: Wentlandt Kirsten , Krzyzanowska Monika K. , Swami Nadia , Rodin Gary M. , Le Lisa W. , Zimmermann Camilla
Published: October 2012

Purpose

To describe current referral practices of oncologists to specialized palliative care (SPC) and define demographic characteristics, practice situations, and opinions associated with referral.

Methods

Physician members of the Canadian Association of Medical Oncologists, Canadian Association of Radiation Oncologists, and Canadian Society of Surgical Oncology were invited to participate in an anonymous survey assessing SPC referral practices. Participants received two e-mailed and two mailed invitations.

Results

The response rate was 72% (603 of 839 physicians); 37% were medical oncologists/hematologists, 50% were radiation oncologists, and 12% were surgical oncologists. Ninety-four percent reported that SPC was available to them, but only 37% reported that these services accepted patients on chemotherapy. Eighty-four percent referred terminally ill patients usually/always, but generally for uncontrolled symptoms or discharge planning late in the disease course. One third would refer to SPC earlier if it was renamed supportive care. Predictors of higher referral frequency included comprehensiveness of available SPC services (P = .004), satisfaction with SPC availability (P < .001), SPC acceptance of patients receiving chemotherapy (P < .001), and oncologist ease with referring patients to a palliative care service before they were close to death (P < .001). Controlling for specialty, predictors of referral at diagnosis or during chemotherapy, rather than later, included satisfaction with SPC service availability (P < .001) and SPC service acceptance of patients on chemotherapy (P < .001).

Conclusion

Oncologists referred patients frequently to SPC, but generally late in the disease course for patients with uncontrolled symptoms. Availability of comprehensive SPC, especially for patients receiving chemotherapy, and persisting definitional issues seem to be the main barriers preventing timely referral.
The RAD51 paralogs ensure cellular protection against mitotic defects and aneuploidy
Authors: Rodrigue Amélie , Coulombe Yan , Jacquet Karine , Gagné Jean-Phillipe , Roques Céline , Gobeil Stéphane , Poirier Guy , Masson Jean-Yves
Published: October 2012

The interplay between homologous DNA recombination and mitotic progression is poorly understood. The five RAD51 paralogs (RAD51B, RAD51C, RAD51D, XRCC2 and XRCC3) are key enzymes for DNA double-strand break repair. In our search for specific functions of the various RAD51 paralogs, we found that inhibition of XRCC3 elicits checkpoint defects, while inhibition of RAD51B or RAD51C induces G2/M cell cycle arrest in HeLa cells. Using live-cell microscopy we show that in XRCC3-knockdown cells the spindle assembly checkpoint persists and there is a higher frequency of chromosome misalignments, anaphase bridges, and aneuploidy. We observed centrosome defects in the absence of XRCC3. While RAD51B and RAD51C act early in homologous recombination, XRCC3 functions jointly with GEN1 later in the pathway at the stage of Holliday junction resolution. Our data demonstrate that Holliday junction resolution has critical functions for preventing aberrant mitosis and aneuploidy in mitotic cells.
Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection causes DNA damage and affects the expression of p21, p27 and p53 in non-tumor epithelial cells
Authors: Vielfort Katarina , Söderholm Niklas , Weyler Linda , Vare Daniel , Löfmark Sonja , Aro Helena
Published: October 2012

The constant shedding and renewal of epithelial cells maintain the protection of epithelial barriers. Interference with the processes of host cell-cycle regulation and barrier integrity permits the bacterial pathogen Neisseria gonorrhoeae to effectively colonize and invade epithelial cells. Here, we show that a gonococcal infection causes DNA damage in human non-tumor vaginal VK2/E6E7 cells with an increase of 700 DNA strand breaks per cell per hour as detected by an alkaline DNA unwinding assay. Infected cells exhibited elevated levels of DNA double-strand breaks, as indicated by a more than 50% increase in cells expressing DNA damage-response protein 53BP1-positive foci that co-localized with phosphorylated histone H2AX (γH2AX). Furthermore, infected cells abolished their expression of the tumor protein p53 and induced an increase in the expression of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors p21 and p27 to 2.6-fold and 4.2-fold of controls, respectively. As shown by live-cell microscopy, flow cytometry assays, and BrdU incorporation assays, gonococcal infection slowed the host cell-cycle progression mainly by impairing progression through the G2 phase. Our findings show new cellular players that are involved in the control of the human cell cycle during gonococcal infection and the potential of bacteria to cause cellular abnormalities.
Computer Vision Tools for 3D Modelling in Archaeology
Authors: Brutto M. Lo , Meli P.
Published: October 2012

In archaeological Cultural Heritage study 3D modelling has become a very useful process to obtain indispensable data for documentation and visualization. Nowadays the continuous request to achieve photorealistic 3D models has led to testing different techniques and methodologies to speed up both data acquisition and the data processing phase. There are many examples of surveys conducted with the use of range-based and image-based techniques, but, in the last few years, the scientific research has been increasingly moving towards automatic procedures using Computer Vision approach to reduce time during data processing. Computer Vision approach offers a great opportunity for archaeological survey since it can be very easily used by existing Computer Vision interfaces such as 3D web services and open source or low cost software. The aim of this work is to evaluate the performance offered by Computer Vision interfaces for 3D survey of archaeological ruins using some 3D web-service tools and a low cost software like PhotoScan package. Some tests have been performed to analyze the geometric accuracy of 3D models obtained by 3D web-service tools and PhotoScan package through the comparison with a 3D model achieved by laser scanning survey.
Immersive Cultural Experience through Innovative Multimedia Applications: The History of Monserrate Palace in Sintra (Portugal) Presented by Virtual Agents
Authors: Neto João Nuno , Neto Maria João
Published: October 2012

We are currently in the process of making a series of interconnected multimedia applications, in order to value and enliven the monuments of Sintra, Portugal - classified by Unesco as World Heritage site in 1995. This national project, Fala Comigo (Talk2Me), aspires to present new contents, not only to scholars but also to an unlimited number of visitors, and thus achieve a social, cultural, educational and civic mission. As an interdisciplinary project, the historians generate the content, while the engineers and technicians design content-driven multimedia applications. In this phase, our case study is the Monserrate Palace, a revivalist building of the 19 century. These applications profoundly rely on a balance between renewed heritage contents, a rigorous scientific approach and stunning designs. We encounter innovative multimodal ways of visitor-application interaction, mainly with the addition of virtual agents that works as guide assistants with educational purposes.
Open Access to Scientific Results and Data. European Union's Efforts through Openaire and Openaireplus FP7 Projects: Cypriot Participation
Authors: Tsimpoglou F.Ch. , Koukounidou V.V. , Prokopiou L.A.
Published: October 2012

The paper presents the introduction of Open Access movement in the Academic environment, pros and cons of the adoption of OA by Universities and how the European Union is enforcing the use of Open Access. The ways of implementing OA, the policies of publishers and journals regarding the deposits of publications and the RoMEO and Juliet projects are also referred in an effort to give an overview of the conditions in exploiting Open Access, either as authors, publishers or end users. The adoption of the Berlin declaration on Open Access to Knowledge in the Sciences and Humanities by the Senate of the University of Cyprus is commented in the paper. Furthermore an analysis of the projects OpenAIRE and OpenAIREplus in which the University of Cyprus Library is involved is provided.
The Museum Environment: A Complex Community of Objects, People and Devices
Authors: Hakvoort Gido , Ch'ng Eugene , Beale Russell
Published: October 2012

The beginning of the 21st century is an exciting time for museums in terms of new, engaging and interactive exhibits. Current technological developments offer museums ideal opportunities to meet the increasing expectations of their visitors, many of whom are the younger generation growing up in the digital age. With a multitude of devices and objects as well as people incorporated into an ever-growing network of interconnected systems, new patterns, forms of interactions and social relations will emerge. In order to engage visitors, museums are adopting new technologies which come with many possibilities, but also have their individual challenges and limitations. Museums should start looking at the unification of many such technologies in order to capture visitor attention, engage visitor interaction and facilitate social activities, since the large quantity of digital input and output capabilities of these technologies are hidden potentials. However, unless specifically designed for, many of these capabilities remain hidden and technologies remain oblivious of each other's features. Making them aware of each other's capabilities opens the channels for new synergy and engaging experiences for museum visitors. This paper proposes a framework which uniquely identifies a community of people, artefacts and devices within the museum environment and provides the means to discover, and make use of the technological properties of each element, treating them as an interacting ecosystem of complex adaptive systems and networks in physical spaces.