bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soluble epoxide hydrolase is involved in the development of atherosclerosis and arterial neointima formation by regulating smooth muscle cell migration
Authors: Wang Qingjie , Huo Leijun , He Jinlong , Ding Wenshuang , Su Hang , Tian Dongping , Welch Carrie , Hammock Bruce D. , Ai Ding , Zhu Yi
Published: October 2015

Epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) have beneficial effects on cardiovascular disease. Soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) metabolizes EETs to less active diols, thus diminishing their biological activity. sEH inhibitors can suppress the progression of atherosclerotic lesions in animal models. However, the regulation of sEH in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and role of sEH in patients with atherosclerosis have not been evaluated. We hypothesize that sEH in VSMCs plays a pivotal role in atherosclerosis and injury-induced neointima formation. In this study, sEH expression in human autopsy atherosclerotic plaque was determined by immunohistochemistry. In cultured rat and human VSMCs, the phenotypic switching marker and sEH expression induced by platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) were examined by Western blot analysis. Carotid-artery balloon injury was performed after adenovirus-mediated overexpression of sEH or oral administration of a potent sEH inhibitor in Sprague-Dawley rats. sEH was highly expressed in VSMCs of the intima and media within human atherosclerotic plaque. In vitro, PDGF-BB upregulated the expression in VSMCs after transcription and promoted cell proliferation and migration; the latter effect could be largely attenuated by an sEH inhibitor. Adenovirus-mediated overexpression of sEH could mimic the effect of PDGF-BB and induce VSMC proliferation and migration. In vivo, the sEH inhibitor led to a significant decrease in injury-induced neointima formation in a rat carotid-artery injury model. These data establish the effect of sEH expression on atherosclerotic progression and vascular remodeling after injury, thus identifying a novel integrative role for sEH in VSMC phenotypic modulation and migration. Blocking sEH activity may be a potential therapeutic approach for ameliorating vascular occlusive disease.
Lipopolysaccharide modulates neutrophil recruitment and macrophage polarization on lymphatic vessels and impairs lymphatic function in rat mesentery
Authors: Chakraborty Sanjukta , Zawieja Scott D. , Wang Wei , Lee Yang , Wang Yuan J. , von der Weid Pierre-Yves , Zawieja David C. , Muthuchamy Mariappan
Published: October 2015

Impairment of the lymphatic system is apparent in multiple inflammatory pathologies connected to elevated endotoxins such as LPS. However, the direct mechanisms by which LPS influences the lymphatic contractility are not well understood. We hypothesized that a dynamic modulation of innate immune cell populations in mesentery under inflammatory conditions perturbs tissue cytokine/chemokine homeostasis and subsequently influences lymphatic function. We used rats that were intraperitoneally injected with LPS (10 mg/kg) to determine the changes in the profiles of innate immune cells in the mesentery and in the stretch-mediated contractile responses of isolated lymphatic preparations. Results demonstrated a reduction in the phasic contractile activity of mesenteric lymphatic vessels from LPS-injected rats and a severe impairment of lymphatic pump function and flow. There was a significant reduction in the number of neutrophils and an increase in monocytes/macrophages present on the lymphatic vessels and in the clear mesentery of the LPS group. This population of monocytes and macrophages established a robust M2 phenotype, with the majority showing high expression of CD163 and CD206. Several cytokines and chemoattractants for neutrophils and macrophages were significantly changed in the mesentery of LPS-injected rats. Treatment of lymphatic muscle cells (LMCs) with LPS showed significant changes in the expression of adhesion molecules, VCAM1, ICAM1, CXCR2, and galectin-9. LPS-TLR4-mediated regulation of pAKT, pERK pI-κB, and pMLC20 in LMCs promoted both contractile and inflammatory pathways. Thus, our data provide the first evidence connecting the dynamic changes in innate immune cells on or near the lymphatics and complex cytokine milieu during inflammation with lymphatic dysfunction.
Calpastatin overexpression impairs postinfarct scar healing in mice by compromising reparative immune cell recruitment and activation
Authors: Wan Feng , Letavernier Emmanuel , Le Saux Claude Jourdan , Houssaini Amal , Abid Shariq , Czibik Gabor , Sawaki Daigo , Marcos Elisabeth , Dubois-Rande Jean-Luc , Baud Laurent , Adnot Serge , Derumeaux Geneviève , Gellen Barnabas
Published: October 2015

The activation of the calpain system is involved in the repair process following myocardial infarction (MI). However, the impact of the inhibition of calpain by calpastatin, its natural inhibitor, on scar healing and left ventricular (LV) remodeling is elusive. Male mice ubiquitously overexpressing calpastatin (TG) and wild-type (WT) controls were subjected to an anterior coronary artery ligation. Mortality at 6 wk was higher in TG mice (24% in WT vs. 44% in TG, P < 0.05) driven by a significantly higher incidence of cardiac rupture during the first week post-MI, despite comparable infarct size and LV dysfunction and dilatation. Calpain activation post-MI was blunted in TG myocardium. In TG mice, inflammatory cell infiltration and activation were reduced in the infarct zone (IZ), particularly affecting M2 macrophages and CD4+ T cells, which are crucial for scar healing. To elucidate the role of calpastatin overexpression in macrophages, we stimulated peritoneal macrophages obtained from TG and WT mice in vitro with IL-4, yielding an abrogated M2 polarization in TG but not in WT cells. Lymphopenic Rag1−/− mice receiving TG splenocytes before MI demonstrated decreased T-cell recruitment and M2 macrophage activation in the IZ day 5 after MI compared with those receiving WT splenocytes. Calpastatin overexpression prevented the activation of the calpain system after MI. It also impaired scar healing, promoted LV rupture, and increased mortality. Defective scar formation was associated with blunted CD4+ T-cell and M2-macrophage recruitment.
Clinical and Translational Assessment of VEGFR1 as a Mediator of the Premetastatic Niche in High-Risk Localized Prostate Cancer
Authors: Pal Sumanta Kumar , Vuong Winston , Zhang Wang , Deng Jiehui , Liu Xueli , Carmichael Courtney , Ruel Nora , Pinnamaneni Manasvi , Twardowski Przemyslaw , Lau Clayton , Yu Hua , Figlin Robert A. , Agarwal Neeraj , Jones Jeremy O.
Published: October 2015

Preclinical studies have suggested that VEGFR1-positive cells potentially foster the development of metastases by establishing a “premetastatic niche.” We sought to test this hypothesis in high-risk localized prostate cancer and assess potential niche modulation by the VEGFR1-targeting drug axitinib. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue derived from benign lymph nodes was collected and VEGFR1-positive cell clustering was assessed in benign lymph nodes via IHC. Recursive partitioning was used to define a threshold for VEGFR1 clustering that could segregate patients based on time to biochemical recurrence (TTBR). Multivariate analyses were used to determine whether VEGFR1 clustering, age, pathologic T-stage, Gleason score, or baseline PSA could independently predict TTBR. A randomized, phase II clinical trial comparing axitinib for 28 days followed by radical prostatectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection (RP/PLND) to RP/LND alone was then conducted, with the primary endpoint of demonstrating downregulation of VEGFR1-positve cell clustering in benign lymph nodes. Our retrospective analysis assessed a cohort of 46 patients. A threshold of 1.65 VEGFR1-positive cells per high power field was identified, below which TTBR was delayed. VEGFR1 clustering was an independent predictor of TTBR in a multivariate analysis. Only 11 out of the planned 44 patients were accrued to the phase II trial. While preoperative axitinib was safe and well tolerated, there was no sign of clinical activity or VEGFR1 downregulation. Our results validate previous findings that suggest VEGFR1-positive cells in benign lymph nodes can predict clinical outcome. Further work is needed to develop a viable clinical strategy for modulating VEGFR1 in these tissues. Mol Cancer Ther; 14(12); 2896–900. ©2015 AACR.
The Functional Effects of Cigarette Smoking in Women on the Lower Urinary Tract
Authors: Madhu Chendrimada , Enki Doyo , Drake Marcus J. , Hashim Hashim
Published: October 2015

The aim of the study was to evaluate the urodynamic findings in women who smoke cigarettes, with bothersome lower urinary tract symptoms, to help develop an understanding of potential impact of smoking on the lower urinary tract function. Methods: A database of 11,678 women who underwent urodynamic testing in a tertiary referral centre in the United Kingdom, from January 1991 to December 2009 was retrospectively analysed. All women reporting cigarette smoking were included in the study group. Urodynamic testing and interpretation of results were done in accordance with the recommendations of the International Continence Society. Results: Overall, 2,476 (21.2%) women reported smoking cigarettes. Overactive bladder symptoms (OAB) were more common in smokers (OR 1.14, p = 0.006). Female smokers significantly complained of secondary nocturnal enuresis (OR 2.26, p < 0.001) and coital incontinence (CI; OR 1.14, p < 0.001). Detrusor overactivity (DO; OR 1.42, p < 0.001) and detrusor overactivity incontinence (DOI; OR 1.42, p < 0.001) were the most significant urodynamic findings. Smoking was not shown to be significantly associated with SUI (OR 1.08, p = 0.213) or urodynamic stress incontinence (OR 0.86, p = 0.001). Conclusion: Cigarette smoking is associated with OAB, secondary nocturnal enuresis and CI. DO and DOI are the most significant urodynamic findings.
Osteogenic Profile of Mesenchymal Cell Populations Contributing to Alveolar Bone Formation
Authors: Minaříková Monika , Oralová Veronika , Veselá Barbora , Radlanski Ralf J. , Matalová Eva
Published: October 2015

Teeth develop within the surrounding periodontal tissues, involving the alveolar bone, periodontal ligament and cementum. The alveolar bone originates through the process of intramembranous ossification involving mesenchymal cells from the tooth germ. As most available data are related to endochondral ossification, we examined the molecular background of alveolar bone development. We investigated the osteogenic profile of mesenchymal cells dissected from mouse mandible slices at the stage of early alveolar bone formation. Relative monitoring of gene expression was undertaken using PCR Arrays; this included the profiles of 84 genes associated with osteogenesis. To examine the tooth-bone interface, stages with detectable changes in bone remodelling during development (E13.0, E14.0 and E15.0) were chosen and compared with each other. These results showed a statistically significant increase in the expression of the genes Fgf3, Ctsk, Icam-1, Mmp9, Itga3 and Tuft1, and of a wide range of collagens (Col1a2, Col3a1, Col7a1, Col12a1, Col14a1). Decreased expression was detected in the case of Col2a1, Sox9, Smad2 and Vegfb. To confirm these changes in gene expression, immunofluorescence analyses of Mmp9 and Sox9 proteins were performed in situ. Our research has identified several candidate genes that may be crucial for the initiation of alveolar bone formation and is the basis for further functional studies.
Primary Amelanotic Rhabdoid Melanoma: A Case Report with Review of the Literature
Authors: Kaneko Takahide , Korekawa Ayumi , Akasaka Eijiro , Rokunohe Daiki , Nakano Hajime , Sawamura Daisuke
Published: October 2015

Primary rhabdoid melanoma (PRM) is a rare variant of melanoma. Herein, we describe a case of primary amelanotic rhabdoid melanoma and review the clinicopathological features of previously reported cases of PRMs. A 63-year-old Japanese man presented with a nonpigmented red granular tumor without peripheral pigmented macules on the left heel measuring 21 × 18 mm in size. Light microscopic examination revealed a tumor mass composed entirely of polygonal neoplastic cells resembling pulmonary alveoli. Tumor cells were also discohesive with bizarre nuclei, prominent nucleoli and large hyaline cytoplasmic inclusions. No melanin pigment was present. Tumor cells were strongly and diffusely positive for S-100, MART-1, HMB-45 and vimentin, while negative for desmin, αSMA and synaptophysin. According to previous reviews, PRM tends to be amelanotic and nodular. S-100 protein and vimentin stained in all cases contrary to low stainability for HMB-45, which was, by contrast, positive in our case. Prognosis of PRM remains controversial due to the very rare occurrence of this tumor and the small number of confirmed cases that have been reported. Recognition of this rare entity is important in clinical practice even for skillful dermatologists to avoid misdiagnosis with the other tumors and to determinate the subsequent treatment principles.
Estudar para ser feliz: análise semiótica de relatos orais de professores licenciados na modalidade de ensino a distância
Authors: Silva Luiza Helena Oliveira da , Moraes Carlos Wiennery da Rocha
Published: October 2015

Este trabalho analisa relatos de vida e de formação de professores concluintes de uma licenciatura em Matemática ofertada a distância, por uma instituição de natureza público-privada, no Tocantins. Os dados foram gerados em entrevistas realizadas ao longo de 2012 com cinco professores recém-formados, que encontraram no curso a distância a possibilidade de conciliação entre educação e exercício profissional. Na geração dos dados, mobilizamos orientações trazidas pela metodologia da história oral, que parte da perspectiva de que as histórias singulares e particulares dialogam expressamente com a história coletiva e plural e, desse modo, os relatos de experiência desses docentes poderiam contribuir para a compreensão de questões mais amplamente vividas na educação no contexto das práticas do Norte do país. Para análise das narrativas, utilizamos fundamentos da semiótica discursiva, mais especificamente relacionados ao que essa teoria denomina como sintaxe do nível narrativo. Pelas reiterações que emergem dos relatos, identificamos trajetórias comuns, que tantas vezes vão
servir para caracterizar os docentes como destinatários submetidos a uma ordem histórica. Discutimos ainda a
problemática da memória como construção de sentidos para experiências que guardam tonicidade. Longe da ilusão da verdade quanto ao que se diz, o que se busca é a compreensão para o que se diz sobre o vivido, assim como as expectativas e esperanças produzidas no presente.
A teoria da linguagem de Hjelmslev: uma epistemologia imanente do conhecimento
Authors: Beividas Waldir
Published: October 2015

Em continuidade ao pensamento de Saussure, Louis Hjelmslev nos legou elementos sólidos para estabelecer uma teoria com metodologia descritiva da língua natural, de cunho integralmente imanente, teoria e metodologia aprumadas para serem constantemente produzidas e conduzidas a partir do interior da própria língua – tal como pleiteava ele, ao modo de uma linguística linguística – que não deixasse invadir suas descrições com argumentos, critérios, conceitos e pontos de vista oriundos de regiões transcendentes à língua, seja no seu plano da expressão, por critérios físico-acústicos, fisiológicos e congêneres, seja no seu plano do conteúdo, por conceitos psicológicos, sociológicos ou filosóficos, dentre outros. Suas formulações sobre uma linguística sui generis, imanente, operada com uma metodologia também imanente, nos legaram algo não muito bem notado, pouco enfatizado, ou ao menos não levado às últimas consequências, pela literatura linguística e semiótica até hoje, e até onde pude acompanhá-la. Este texto examina algumas das teses peremptórias de L. Hjelmslev sobre a linguagem como a forma básica pela qual concebemos o mundo à escala da fenomenologia humana. Pretende arguir que, em formulações hjelmslevianas sobre a imanência e sobre a língua natural, desenha-se uma verdadeira epistemologia do conhecimento, também imanente. Mais que isso, essa epistemologia ultrapassa o campo restrito das linguísticas e de sua própria metodologia imanente, defendida sobretudo nos Prolegômenos. Ela se direciona para o amplo campo das ciências, arrisco-me a dizer, das ciências humanas e também das ciências naturais. Tal epistemologia veio, no meu entendimento, anunciada com o gesto saussuriano da proposição do princípio do arbitrário do signo, do pacto semiológico que ele instaura e do contínuo ato semiológico que dele deriva como modo de presença e vida dos signos na vida social.
A formação do Multiquadro na linguagem dos quadrinhos: O caso implicativo em Les Yeux Du Chat
Authors: Araujo Jônathas
Published: October 2015

Neste artigo, passaremos em revista o conceito de solidariedade icônica e multiquadro, desenvolvidos por Groensteen, na pretensão de introduzir um caminho para um abordagem mais abrangente e sistemática sobre o que o autor reconhece como estratégias necessárias da linguagem das ‘histórias’ em quadrinhos. Concentrando esforços sobre o multiquadro, ofereceremos uma aproximação semiótica, de linha francesa, através dos graus de sincretismo (Hjelmslev) e pela sintaxe das triagens e misturas (Zilberberg). Através da análise da história em quadrinhos Les Yeux du Chat (Moebius), defendemos que o multiquadro se faz pertinente na leitura por sua formação não se resolver plenamente, promovendo um conjunto plástico que enfatiza tanto o agrupamento de quadros e páginas, assim como cada quadro em sua singularidade. Seguindo o pensamento de Zilberberg, concebemos que tal processo pode se dar pautado pela implicação ou pela concessão. Assim, reconhecemos, através da repetição dos motivos gráficos e seu modo de ocorrência, que a promoção do multiquadro em Les Yeux du Chat tende à arquitetura implicativa do discurso plástico. Da mesma maneira, supomos a possibilidade de um desenvolvimento concessivo do multiquadro, embora pouco atualizada. Tais conclusões abrem a pesquisa para os modos poéticos do pervir e do sobrevir, anunciados por Zilberberg, sobretudo no que diz respeito aos modos de espera e temporalidade da leitura.
Myristoylated Alanine‐Rich Protein Kinase Substrate (MARCKS) Regulates Small GTPase Rac1 and Cdc42 Activity and Is a Critical Mediator of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Migration in Intimal Hyperplasia Formation
Authors: Yu Dan , Makkar George , Strickland Dudley K. , Blanpied Thomas A. , Stumpo Deborah J. , Blackshear Perry J. , Sarkar Rajabrata , Monahan Thomas S.
Published: October 2015

Background

Transcription of the myristoylated alanine‐rich C kinase substrate (
MARCKS
) is upregulated in animal models of intimal hyperplasia.
MARCKS
knockdown inhibits vascular smooth muscle cell (
VSMC
) migration in vitro; however, the mechanism is as yet unknown. We sought to elucidate the mechanism of
MARCKS
‐mediated motility and determine whether
MARCKS
knockdown reduces intimal hyperplasia formation in vivo.

Methods and Results

MARCKS
knockdown blocked platelet‐derived growth factor (
PDGF)
‐induced translocation of cortactin to the cell cortex, impaired both lamellipodia and filopodia formation, and attenuated motility of human coronary artery smooth muscle cells (
CASMC
s). Activation of the small
GTP
ases, Rac1 and Cdc42, was prevented by
MARCKS
knockdown. Phosphorylation of
MARCKS
resulted in a transient shift of
MARCKS
from the plasma membrane to the cytosol.
MARCKS
knockdown significantly decreased membrane‐associated phosphatidylinositol 4,5‐bisphosphate (
PIP
2
) levels. Cotransfection with an intact, unphosphorylated
MARCKS
, which has a high binding affinity for
PIP
2
, restored membrane‐associated
PIP
2
levels and was indispensable for activation of Rac1 and Cdc42 and, ultimately,
VSMC
migration. Overexpression of
MARCKS
in differentiated
VSMC
s increased membrane
PIP
2
abundance, Rac1 and Cdc42 activity, and cell motility.
MARCKS
protein was upregulated early in the development of intimal hyperplasia in the murine carotid ligation model. Decreased
MARKCS
expression, but not total knockdown, attenuated intimal hyperplasia formation.

Conclusions

MARCKS
upregulation increases
VSMC
motility by activation of Rac1 and Cdc42. These effects are mediated by
MARCKS
sequestering
PIP
2
at the plasma membrane. This study delineates a novel mechanism for
MARCKS
‐mediated
VSMC
migration and supports the rational for
MARCKS
knockdown to prevent intimal hyperplasia.
Cholinergic Pathway Suppresses Pulmonary Innate Immunity Facilitating Pneumonia After Stroke
Authors: Engel Odilo , Akyüz Levent , da Costa Goncalves Andrey C. , Winek Katarzyna , Dames Claudia , Thielke Mareike , Herold Susanne , Böttcher Chotima , Priller Josef , Volk Hans Dieter , Dirnagl Ulrich , Meisel Christian , Meisel Andreas
Published: October 2015

Background and Purpose—

Temporary immunosuppression has been identified as a major risk factor for the development of pneumonia after acute central nervous system injury. Although overactivation of the sympathetic nervous system was previously shown to mediate suppression of systemic cellular immune responses after stroke, the role of the parasympathetic cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway in the antibacterial defense in lung remains largely elusive.

Methods—

The middle cerebral artery occlusion model in mice was used to examine the influence of the parasympathetic nervous system on poststroke immunosuppression. We used heart rate variability measurement by telemetry, vagotomy, α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor–deficient mice, and parasympathomimetics (nicotine, PNU282987) to measure and modulate parasympathetic activity.

Results—

Here, we demonstrate a rapidly increased parasympathetic activity in mice after experimental stroke. Inhibition of cholinergic signaling by either vagotomy or by using α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor–deficient mice reversed pulmonary immune hyporesponsiveness and prevented pneumonia after stroke. In vivo and ex vivo studies on the role of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor on different lung cells using bone marrow chimeric mice and isolated primary cells indicated that not only macrophages but also alveolar epithelial cells are a major cellular target of cholinergic anti-inflammatory signaling in the lung.

Conclusions—

Thus, cholinergic pathways play a pivotal role in the development of pulmonary infections after acute central nervous system injury.
Intravenous Thrombolysis for Stroke Recurring Within 3 Months From the Previous Event
Authors: Karlinski Michal , Kobayashi Adam , Czlonkowska Anna , Mikulik Robert , Vaclavik Daniel , Brozman Miroslav , Gdovinova Zuzana , Švigelj Viktor , Csiba Laszlo , Fekete Klara , Kõrv Janika , Demarin Vida , Bašic-Kes Vanja , Vilionskis Aleksandras , Jatuzis Dalius , Krespi Yakup , Shamalov Nikolay , Andonova Silva , Ahmed Niaz , Wahlgren Nils ,   for the Safe Implementation of Treatments in Stroke–East Registry (SITS-EAST) Investigators
Published: October 2015

Background and Purpose—

According to the European license, alteplase can be given no sooner than 3 months after previous stroke. However, it is not known whether past history of stroke influences the effect of treatment. Our aim was to evaluate safety and functional outcome after intravenous thrombolysis administered in everyday practice to patients with previous stroke ≤3 months compared with those with first-ever stroke.

Methods—

We analyzed consecutive cases treated with alteplase between October 2003 and July 2014 contributed to the Safe Implementation of Thrombolysis for Stroke–Eastern Europe registry from 12 countries. Odds ratios were calculated using unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression.

Results—

Of 13 007 patients, 11 221 (86%) had no history of stroke and 249 (2%) experienced previous stroke ≤3 months before admission. Patients with previous stroke ≤3 months had a higher proportion of hypertension and hyperlipidemia. There were no significant differences in outcome, including symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage according to European Cooperative Acute Stroke Study (unadjusted odds ratio 1.27, 95% confidence interval: 0.74–2.15), and being alive and independent at 3 months (odds ratio 0.81, 95% confidence interval: 0.61–1.09).

Conclusions—

Patients currently treated with alteplase, despite a history of previous stroke ≤3 months, do not seem to achieve worse outcome than those with first-ever stroke. Although careful patient selection was probably of major importance, our findings provide reassurance that this group of patients may safely benefit from thrombolysis and should not be arbitrarily excluded as a whole. Further studies are needed to identify the shortest safe time lapse from the previous event to treatment with alteplase.
Risk Factors Associated With the Presence of Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms
Authors: Kang Hyun Goo , Kim Bum Joon , Lee Jisung , Kim Mi-Jung , Kang Dong-Wha , Kim Jong S. , Kwon Sun U.
Published: October 2015

Background and Purpose—

With the increased investigation of cerebral arteries using magnetic resonance angiography in the general population, the detection of unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIAs) has increased. Understanding the distribution and factors associated with UIAs might be helpful for understanding the pathomechanism.

Methods—

Subjects who underwent magnetic resonance angiography with a health examination at the Health Screening and Promotion Center were enrolled. The incidence and risk factors of UIAs (age, sex, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, smoking, alcohol, and coronary artery disease) were investigated by comparing patients with and without UIAs. These risk factors were also investigated by the UIA location, distal internal carotid artery, anterior cerebral artery and middle cerebral artery (MCA), MCA bifurcation, anterior and posterior communicating artery, and posterior circulation.

Results—

Among 187 166 subjects who received health examination, 18 954 underwent magnetic resonance angiography. Of them, 367 (1.93%) had UIAs. Age (odds ratio [OR], 1.02;
P
=0.003), women (OR, 2.00;
P
<0.001), hypertension (OR, 2.21;
P
<0.001), smoking (OR, 1.66;
P
=0.001), and coronary artery disease (OR, 0.23;
P
<0.001) were independently associated with the presence of UIAs. Hypertension was associated with most UIAs, except for those located at sidewalls (anterior cerebral artery and MCA). MCA aneurysms were associated with old age and smoking. Distal internal carotid artery, posterior communicating artery, and MCA-bifurcation aneurysms were associated with female sex. Anterior communicating artery aneurysms were associated with smoking and alcohol. Posterior circulation UIAs were only associated with hypertension. Coronary artery disease was negatively associated with anterior circulation aneurysms.

Conclusions—

The risk factors for UIAs differ by their location, compared with the control. Interestingly, the presence of coronary artery disease was protective against the presence of UIAs.
Characteristics and Synoptic Environment of Drylines Occurring over the Higher Terrain of Southeastern Wyoming
Authors: Bergmaier Philip T. , Geerts Bart
Published: October 2015

Commonly observed over the broadly sloped terrain of the southern Great Plains (SGP), drylines are frequent loci of warm season deep convection and have been the focus of numerous observational, theoretical, and climatological studies over last half century. In this study, a 3-yr (2010–12) analysis of the characteristics and synoptic environment of drylines occurring elsewhere, over the high terrain in southeastern Wyoming just east of the Rocky Mountains, is presented. Observed on ~11% of the days between May and August of the years examined, southeastern Wyoming drylines were often associated with large moisture gradients [~5–10 g kg−1 (100 km)−1], large horizontal virtual potential temperature differences (~2–5 K), and convergent zonal wind flow at the surface. The synoptic conditions leading to their formation and their relationship to thunderstorm activity are also explored in an effort to aid local forecasters in anticipating the development and convective impact of drylines across the region. Similarities exist between these drylines and those found over the SGP, especially with regard to their strength and close relationship to deep convection. However, the frequency at which they occur, some characteristics of their diurnal motion, and the synoptic conditions driving their formation differ noticeably.
A Lousy Reason for Surgery Cancellations
Authors: Walker Christian , Sebastian Roby , Krishna Senthil , Tobias Joseph D.
Published: October 2015

Cancellation of surgery has significant adverse impact on patients, health care providers, and their associated facilities. Although head lice infestation has not been shown to be associated with adverse surgical outcomes, it often prompts case cancellation by surgical and anesthesia personnel. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the extent and impact of surgery cancellations due to head lice infestation. In our study, a total of 9 patients were cancelled over a 3-year period. Although there is no direct evidence to show that head lice infestation poses a risk to surgical outcomes, the possibility of underlying secondary bacterial infection at the skin excoriation site is often the concern in these patients. This study offers the first investigation into the impact of head lice infections on operating room cancellations, which may prove to be a potential source of intervention to prevent cancellations.
Real-time graphic visualization of filament band winding for fiber-reinforced cylindrical vessels
Authors: Fu Jianhui , Yun Jaedeuk , Kim Jeong-Suk , Jung Yoongho
Published: October 2015

The filament winding method is widely used to manufacture lightweight, strong, composite products. To reduce winding time, the method of winding by filament band, which consists of several roving tows, is used. A computer numerical control winding machine is used with input path commands for precise winding operation. Before filament winding, users should verify by simulation that the input path is appropriate for the winding without any erroneous operation. Furthermore, prior to starting the winding operation, the usage length of each tow must to be checked because the manufacturing process stops unexpectedly if the tow on the creel runs out. In this work, we used the geodesic equation to generate a filament band surface and calculate the usage length of each tow. We also proposed a graphic display method to make the visual effect in accord with the real winding process. To verify the presented algorithm, a program for three-dimensional real-time graphic visualization of filament band winding process was developed.
The Effect of Accommodation on Academic Performance of College Students With Disabilities
Authors: Kim Won Ho , Lee Juyoung
Published: October 2015

Accommodating students with disabilities may influence their academic performance. This study investigates the effects of accommodations on grade point average (GPA) by examining a sample of 1,248 students from the Office of Disability Services at the Pennsylvania State University. The results showed the significant influence that both test accommodation, specifically extension of time and modification of materials, and course accommodation, specifically assignment accommodation, had on overall GPA while controlling demographic variables and types of disability. The authors also discuss the significance, limitations, and implications of such results.
Chinese Outbound Tourism Research
Authors: Jin Xin , Wang Ying
Published: October 2015

Chinese outbound tourism has been developing at a phenomenal pace, attracting the interest of both academics and industry practitioners. This article employs a hybrid review method that combines the narrative and systematic quantitative review methods to delineate the status of research on Chinese outbound tourism and to indicate areas that lack academic inquiry. It evaluates the scope, method, and themes of 161 articles published in 16 top tourism and hospitality journals between 2000 and 2014. The review calls for future research to shift from an advocacy stance to the sustainable and ethics platforms under research paradigms that are more fertile for cross-cultural research.
Effects of a Story Character’s Goal Achievement
Authors: Lee Tae Kyoung , Shapiro Michael A.
Published: October 2015

One set of media effect theories argues that people are more likely to model behaviors that lead to a rewarding outcome (goal-achieved) than those that lead to an unrewarding outcome (goal-failed); however, recent studies find that observing another person’s goal achievement deactivates the goal. In Experiment 1, a story in which a character’s diet goal is in progress activated participants’ diet goals more than a story in which the character’s goal is achieved. In Experiment 2, when a story character achieved a diet goal, participants’ perceived similarity with the character was related to a greater intention to model the character’s diet-related behaviors; that relationship was not significant when the character failed. When a story character continued to pursue a diet goal, however, participants’ goals were more activated than when the character discontinued to pursue the goal.
An Integrated Theory of Specialized Court Programs
Authors: Kaiser Kimberly A. , Holtfreter Kristy
Published: October 2015

Specialized court programs have expanded beyond drug treatment to address issues such as mental health, domestic violence, veterans, and reentry through evidenced-based treatment. Although these programs have been successful at reducing recidivism, their lack of an overarching theoretical framework has limited generalizability to other offender populations and contexts. The purpose of this article is to present an integrated model for specialized court programs that incorporates therapeutic jurisprudence and procedural justice concepts. We argue that although therapeutic jurisprudence offers guiding principles, it lacks the ability to explain how these programs work to change offender behavior and perceptions. Procedural justice can provide this missing piece of the puzzle in understanding the effectiveness of specialized courts. We conclude with a discussion of directions for future research and practice that is guided by this integrated perspective.
Social Predictors of Active Life Engagement
Authors: Sabbath Erika L. , Matz-Costa Christina , Rowe John W. , Leclerc Annette , Zins Marie , Goldberg Marcel , Berkman Lisa F.
Published: October 2015

Background:

Active life engagement is important for successful aging of societies and individuals. We tested predictors of engagement in French adults aged 60–74 (the GAZEL cohort).

Methods:

Participants ( n = 10,764) reported the previous day’s activities in a time-use survey. We modeled concurrent social, demographic, and health predictors of participation incidence and intensity in paid work, volunteering, caregiving, community involvement, and informal social interaction.

Results:

Men were more active in volunteering/community activities and women in caregiving and informal social interaction. Participation varied inversely with socioeconomic status (SES). Paid work participation declined linearly with age and health status, but this relationship did not hold for other activities.

Conclusions:

Men and those of higher SES were more likely to participate in certain activities than were women and those of low lifetime SES, potentially limiting the latter groups’ future health and well-being benefits from such activities. Findings suggest groups that could benefit from interventions to increase engagement.
Increased Expression of FGF19 Contributes to Tumor Progression and Cell Motility of Human Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Zhang Xiliang , Wang Zhonghua , Tian Lei , Xie Jiangping , Zou Guijun , Jiang Futing
Published: October 2015

Objective

Numerous reports indicate a role for aberrant expression of fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19) in tumor development and progression, and several drugs have been developed to target it. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical significance of FGF19 and examine whether it plays any roles in progression of thyroid cancer.

Study Design

Translation research.

Setting

Navy General Hospital of Chinese PLA, China.

Subjects and Methods

Expression patterns of FGF19 protein in 100 paired formalin‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded cancerous and adjacent noncancerous tissues from patients with thyroid cancer were detected by immunohistochemistry. Then, in vitro migration and invasion assays of siRNA‐targeted FGF19‐transfected cells were performed.

Results

Positive immunostaining of FGF19 protein expression was localized in cytoplasm with or without membrane of malignant cells and was observed in 82 (82.0%) of 100 patients with thyroid cancer. Statistically, the expression level of FGF19 protein in thyroid cancer tissues was significantly higher than that in normal tissues. In addition, FGF19 overexpression was significantly associated with the advanced tumor node metastasis staging (P =. 008), the presence of extrathyroidal invasion (P =. 01), lymph nodes metastasis (P =. 01), and distant metastasis (P =. 02). Furthermore, knockdown of FGF19 by transfection of siRNA‐FGF19 could efficiently suppress the migration and invasion abilities of thyroid cancer cells in vitro.

Conclusion

Our data revealed that the increased expression of FGF19 might be involved in the malignant behaviors of thyroid cancer, highlighting its potential as a molecular marker for early diagnosis and as a possible target for therapeutic intervention of this disease.
Sustaining business networks: Understanding the benefit bundles sought by members of local business associations
Authors: Newbery Robert , Gorton Matthew , Phillipson Jeremy , Atterton Jane
Published: October 2015

Local business associations can be important mechanisms for stimulating inter-firm cooperation leading to economic growth and development. However, previous research suggests that the unfulfilled expectations of their members can lead to low participation, high membership churn and network instability over time. As a departure from studies that have explored why local associations supply certain benefits and services, this paper draws on an original, demand side membership survey of local business associations to identify for the first time the bundles of benefits sought by members. Two bundles of benefits (instrumental and info-social) relating to thin and thick models of rational choice, respectively, are identified in explaining why firms join and remain part of associations. The relevance of these bundles to members was found to vary with business profile and length of membership, with the value of instrumental benefits reducing over time, whereas the demand for info-social benefits remained relatively stable. The findings have important implications for local strategies for sustaining business networks.
Collective Sexual Violence in Bosnia and Sierra Leone: A Comparative Case Study Analysis
Authors: ten Bensel Tusty , Sample Lisa L.
Published: October 2015

Social scientists have long studied the patterns, motivations, and recidivism rates of sexual offenders; however, the majority of prior research has examined rape, where victims are assaulted by a single offender in isolated events. Often overlooked are sexually violent assaults committed during armed conflicts, which often exhibit group-level sexual offending. This oversight could be a result of perceived notions that sexual violence during conflict is a rare or regrettable event; however, it has been documented consistently throughout history. The purpose of this study was to improve our understanding of sexual violence during war by comparing and contrasting preconflict characteristics, conflict framing, and justifications for sexual violence in the Bosnian and Sierra Leone armed conflicts. This greater understanding can then be used to identify factors that may contribute to the collectivization of sexual violence during war.
Urban hydrogeomorphology and the urban stream syndrome
Authors: Vietz Geoff J. , Walsh Christopher J. , Fletcher Tim D.
Published: October 2015

The urban stream syndrome is an almost universal physical and ecological response of streams to catchment urbanization. Altered channel geomorphology is a primary symptom that includes channel deepening, widening and instability. While the common approach is to treat the symptoms (e.g. modifying and stabilizing the channel), many stream restoration objectives will not be achieved unless the more vexing problem, treating the cause, is addressed in some way. Research demonstrates that the dominant cause of geomorphic change in streams in urban catchments is an altered flow regime and increase in the volume of stormwater runoff. Thus, managers can choose to treat the symptoms by modifying and controlling the channel to accommodate the altered flow regime, or treat the cause by modifying the flow regime to reduce the impact on channel morphology. In both cases treatments must, at the least, explicitly consider hydrogeomorphology—the science of the linkages between various hydrologic and geomorphic processes—to have a chance of success. This paper provides a review of recent literature (2010 to early 2015) to discuss fluvial hydrogeomorphology in the management of streams subject to urbanization. We suggest that while the dominant approach is focused on combating the symptoms of catchment urbanization (that we refer to as channel reconfiguration), there is increasing interest in approaches that attempt to address the causes by using stormwater control measures at a range of scales in the catchment (e.g. flow-regime management). In many settings in the oft-constrained urban catchment, effective management of stream morphology may require multiple approaches. To conclude, we identify five research areas that could inform urban hydrogeomorphology, one of the most challenging of which is the extent to which the volume of excess urban stormwater runoff can be reduced to mitigate the impact on stream geomorphology.
Role of the Gut Microbiome in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Aqel Bashar , DiBaise John K.
Published: October 2015

The incidence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) continues to increase with prevalence estimates ranging from 17%–33%, making it is the most common cause of chronic liver disease in North America. Its importance is due to not only its prevalence but also its association with increased cardiovascular morbidity and progression to cirrhosis in a subset of patients. NAFLD encompasses a pathologic spectrum of disease, from relatively benign accumulation of lipid (steatosis) to progressive nonalcoholic steatohepatitis associated with inflammation, fibrosis, and necrosis. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis remains an important phenotypic state because this subgroup of patients is deemed at high risk for developing cirrhosis and progressing to liver failure requiring transplantation or to death. Gut microbiota has recently been identified as regulators of energy homeostasis and fat deposition, thereby implicating them in the development of obesity and associated metabolic diseases. The growing evidence that alteration in gut microbiota (dysbiosis) may affect liver pathology may allow for a better understanding of its role in the pathogenesis of NAFLD, help to identify patients at risk of progression, and expose a microbial target for prevention and therapeutic intervention. In this review, we discuss the growing evidence that highlights the relationship between gut microbiota and its association with NAFLD.
It’s Not My Place: Formative Evaluation Research to Design a Bystander Intervention Campaign
Authors: DeMaria Andrea L. , Sundstrom Beth , Grzejdziak Maja , Booth Kathleen , Adams Helen , Gabel Colby , Cabot Jeri
Published: October 2015

Sexual misconduct remains a problem on college campuses despite years of documentation and research, and program development and implementation. The purpose of this study was to conduct systematic theory-based formative audience research to understand how college women and men make meaning of sexual assault and bystander intervention. A total of 69 men and women aged 18 to 24 years participated in eight gender-specific focus group discussions. A grounded theory approach was used to identify patterns and themes across the data. Themes emerging from the data included the following: (a) female participants’ experiences of sexism and misogyny, (b) the myth that rape is falsely reported, (c) complex understandings of consent and entitlement, (d) the reluctance to stop someone from having a “good time,” (e) the role of alcohol as a moderating factor in sexual misconduct and bystander intervention, and (f) preference for direct and impactful messaging. This study informs researchers and practitioners about college students’ perceptions of, and experiences with, bystander intervention and sexual assault. Practitioners can use this information to develop effective mixed media, campus-wide social marketing campaigns.
When the End Justifies the Means
Authors: Kopetz Catalina , Orehek Edward
Published: October 2015

We explore the possibility that self-defeating behaviors represent self-regulatory success rather than failure. Specifically, we suggest that drug use, overeating, risky sexual behavior, self-harm, and martyrdom represent means toward individuals’ goals. In this capacity, they may be initiated and pursued upon goal activation despite potentially negative consequences, and thus exemplify the long-held notion that the end justifies the means. We propose a means-end analysis, present evidence that these activities demonstrate the hallmarks of goal pursuit, and discuss novel implications for understanding these behaviors.
An unusual lipomatous brain mass in a Golden Retriever dog
Authors: Scott Steven J. , Elliot Kirsty , Philibert Helene , Summers Brian A. , Godson Dale , Singh Baljit , Simko Elemir
Published: October 2015

A 9-year-old Golden Retriever dog was presented to the Veterinary Medical Center with a 3-week history of grand mal seizures and was subsequently euthanized. At autopsy, a discrete, firm, expansile mass was found in the right pyriform lobe, which compressed the ipsilateral hippocampus, thalamus, and cerebral cortex. Histologically, the mass was composed of well-differentiated adipose tissue supported by fibrous and mucinous stroma. Adipocytes exhibited strong immunoreactivity for vimentin and were negative for pancytokeratin (AE1/AE3), glial fibrillary acidic protein, neuron-specific enolase, and synaptophysin. These findings are most compatible with an intracranial lipomatous hamartoma, which is an extraparenchymal lesion that has been identified in several species. The current report describes an intracerebral lipomatous hamartoma in a veterinary species.
Parents’ Perceptions of Primary Health Care Physiotherapy With Preterm Infants
Authors: Håkstad Ragnhild B. , Obstfelder Aud , Øberg Gunn Kristin
Published: October 2015

Having a preterm infant is a life-altering event for parents. The use of interventions intended to support the parents is recommended. In this study, we investigated how parents’ perceptions of physiotherapy in primary health care influenced their adaptation to caring for a preterm child. We conducted 17 interviews involving parents of seven infants, at infants’ corrected age (CA) 3, 6, and 12 months. The analysis was a systematic text condensation, connecting to theory of participatory sense-making. The parents described a progression toward a new normalcy in the setting of persistent uncertainty. Physiotherapists can ameliorate this uncertainty and support the parents’ progression toward normalization, by providing knowledge and acknowledging both the child as subject and the parent–child relationship. Via embodied interaction and the exploration of their child’s capacity, the parents learn about their children’s individuality and gain the confidence necessary to support and care for their children in everyday life.