bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obesity, Inflammation, and Lung Injury (OILI): The Good
Authors: Wang Cheryl
Published: May 2014

Obesity becomes pandemic, predisposing these individuals to great risk for lung injury. In this review, we focused on the anti-inflammatories and addressed the following aspects: adipocytokines and obesity, inflammation and other mechanisms, adipocytokines and lung injury in obesity bridged by inflammation, and potential therapeutic targets. To sum up, the majority of evidence supported that adiponectin, omentin, and secreted frizzled-related protein 5 (SFRP5) were reduced significantly in obesity, which is associated with increased inflammation, indicated by increase of TNFαand IL-6, through activation of toll-like receptor (TLR4) and nuclear factor light chainκB (NF-κB) signaling pathways. Administration of these adipocytokines promotes weight loss and reduces inflammation. Zinc-α2-glycoprotein (ZAG), vaspin, IL-10, interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA), transforming growth factorβ(TGF-β1), and growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) are also regarded as anti-inflammatories. There were controversial reports. Furthermore, there is a huge lack of studies for obesity related lung injury. The effects of adiponectin on lung transplantation, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD), and pneumonia were anti-inflammatory and protective in lung injury. Administration of IL-10 agonist reduces mortality of acute lung injury in rabbits with acute necrotizing pancreatitis, possibly through inhibiting proinflammation and strengthening host immunity. Very limited information is available for other adipocytokines.
Alkylation of Histidine Residues ofBothrops jararacussuVenom Proteins and Isolated PhospholipasesA2: A Biotechnological Tool to Improve the Production of Antibodies
Authors: Guimarães C. L. S. , Andrião-Escarso S. H. , Moreira-Dill L. S. , Carvalho B. M. A. , Marchi-Salvador D. P. , Santos-Filho N. A. , Fernandes C. A. H. , Fontes M. R. M. , Giglio J. R. , Barraviera B. , Zuliani J. P. , Fernandes C. F. C. , Calderón L. A. , Stábeli R. G. , Albericio F. , da Silva S. L. , Soares A. M.
Published: May 2014

Crude venom ofBothrops jararacussuand isolated phospholipases A2(PLA2) of this toxin (BthTX-I and BthTX-II) were chemically modified (alkylation) byp-bromophenacyl bromide (BPB) in order to study antibody production capacity in function of the structure-function relationship of these substances (crude venom and PLA2native and alkylated). BthTX-II showed enzymatic activity, while BthTX-I did not. Alkylation reduced BthTX-II activity by 50% while this process abolished the catalytic and myotoxic activities of BthTX-I, while reducing its edema-inducing activity by about 50%. Antibody production against the native and alkylated forms of BthTX-I and -II and the cross-reactivity of antibodies to native and alkylated toxins did not show any apparent differences and these observations were reinforced by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) data. Histopathological analysis of mouse gastrocnemius muscle sections after injection of PBS, BthTX-I, BthTX-II, or both myotoxins previously incubated with neutralizing antibody showed inhibition of the toxin-induced myotoxicity. These results reveal that the chemical modification of the phospholipases A2(PLA2) diminished their toxicity but did not alter their antigenicity. This observation indicates that the modified PLA2may provide a biotechnological tool to attenuate the toxicity of the crude venom, by improving the production of antibodies and decreasing the local toxic effects of this poisonous substance in animals used to produce antivenom.
Histology of the Suprapubic and Anogenital Cutaneous Glands in Male Cotton Top Tamarins (Saguinus oedipus)
Authors: Fontani Sara , Tanteri Gianfranco , Vaglio Stefano , Delfino Giovanni , Moggi-Cecchi Jacopo
Published: May 2014

In cotton top tamarins (Saguinus oedipus), scent glands have been mostly studied in females from museum collections. This work aims to extend the investigation to male specimens, introducing a novel source of skin samples. Two adult males from zoo populations, one intact and one castrated, were immediately frozen after natural death. Skin samples were later collected at the thawing onset, soaked with cold fixative and processed for light microscopy. Sebaceous units of scent glands showed phasic secretory activity in the intact male and marked fibrosis in the castrated male. It appears, therefore, that light microscopy samples from frozen tissues provide detailed features that can disclose distinctive traits in specimens characterized by different hormonal balances.
The CHA2DS2-VASc Score as a Predictor of Left Atrial Thrombus in Patients with Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Uz Omer , Atalay Murat , Doğan Mehmet , Isilak Zafer , Yalcin Murat , Uzun Mehmet , Kardesoglu Ejder , Cebeci Bekir Sitki
Published: May 2014

Objective: To investigate whether or not the CHA2DS2-VASc score predicts left atrial (LA) thrombus detected on pre-cardioversion transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE). Materials and Methods: The medical records of patients who had undergone TEE were reviewed to assess the presence of LA thrombus prior to direct-current cardioversion for atrial fibrillation (AF). The CHA2DS2-VASc score was calculated for each patient. Clinical TEE reports were reviewed for the presence of LA thrombus. Patients with a valve prosthesis or rheumatic mitral valve disease were excluded from this study. Results: A total of 309 patients were identified. The mean age was 70.1 ± 9.8 years and 151 (49%) patients were males and 158 (51%) were females. LA thrombus was seen in 32 (10.3%) of the 309 patients. Fifty (16.2%) patients had a low CHA2DS2-VASc score (0-1), 230 (74.4%) had an intermediate score (2-4) and 29 (9.4%) had a high score (5-9). The incidence of LA thrombus in the low, intermediate and high CHA2DS2-VASc score groups was 0, 4.4 and 68.7%, respectively. The LA thrombus risk increased with increasing CHA2DS2-VASc scores. On multivariate logistic analysis, the CHA2DS2-VASc score (OR 3.26, 95% CI 2.3-4.65; p = 0.001) and age (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.88-0.98; p = 0.004) were independent risk factors for LA thrombus in patients with non-valvular AF. Conclusion: A high CHA2DS2-VASc score was independently associated with the presence of LA thrombus in patients with non-valvular AF.
Transthoracic Echocardiography and 6-Minute Walk Test in Kuwaiti Sickle Cell Disease Patients
Authors: Marouf Rajaa , Behbehani Nasser , Zubaid Mohammed , Al Wazzan Hanan , El Muzaini Hadeel , Abdulla Rasha , Mojiminiyi Olusegun A. , Adekile Adekunle D.
Published: May 2014

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate cardiac abnormalities in Kuwaiti sickle cell disease (SCD) patients using markers such as tricuspid regurgitant jet velocity (TRJV), pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP), and the 6-minute walk (6MW) test and correlate these findings with clinical, hematological, and biochemical parameters. Materials and Methods: Seventy-three patients with SCD and 70 matched controls were studied. The cardiac status was investigated using transthoracic echocardiography in 57 patients; the 6MW test was carried out in patients and controls. Complete blood counts and hemolytic parameters were assessed. Results: Reticulocytes, bilirubin, and lactate dehydrogenase were significantly higher (p < 0.0001) in patients, while hemoglobin (Hb) and haptoglobin were lower (p < 0.0001) than in controls. The mean fetal Hb among patients was 15.85 ± 8.7%. Of the 57 patients, 14 (24.5%) and 15 (26%) had mild tricuspid and mitral regurgitation, respectively. The mean ejection fraction, TRJV, and PASP were 63.9 ± 6.3%, 1.7 ± 0.5 m/s, and 23.0 ± 7.3 mm Hg, respectively. Three (5.2%) patients had mildly raised TRJV (2.6-2.97 m/s, normal range <2.5 m/s) while 8 (14%) had high PASP (mean 35.3 ± 5.1 mm Hg, normal range <30 mm Hg). Hb, hematocrit, and reticulocytes were different (p = 0.010, p = 0.006, and p = 0.011, respectively) between patients with normal and high PASP. All 3 patients who had a high TRJV had a high PASP, and 2 of these patients died during follow-up. The systolic and diastolic blood pressure, oxygen saturation before and after the 6MW test, and distance walked were lower (p = 0.006, p = 0.000, p = 0.002, p = 0.000, and p = 0.000, respectively) in patients compared to controls. Conclusion: Raised PASP was common in Kuwaiti SCD patients while raised TRJV was not.
Thismia mucronata (Thismiaceae), a new species from Southern Vietnam
Authors: NURALIEV MAXIM S. , BEER ANTON S. , KUZNETSOV ANDREY N. , KUZNETSOVA SVETLANA P.
Published: May 2014

Thismia mucronata, a new species of Thismiaceae, is described and illustrated. The species was discovered in 2013 during a botanical survey of a forest in the vicinity of Bao Loc town (Lam Dong province, Southern Vietnam). Thismia mucronata is characterised by vermiform roots and mitriform inner tepals. It differs from related species mainly by the short and appressed to each other appendages of inner tepals, which together resemble a short mucro, the narrow mitre without foveae, the almost horizontal annulus and the absence of interstaminal glands. A key to Vietnamese species of Thismia is provided.
Phylogenetic affinities of Monarea Szépligeti, 1904 (Hymenoptera: Braconidae, Doryctinae, with description of a new species from Mexico
Authors: BELOKOBYLSKIJ SERGEY A. , ZALDÍVAR-RIVERÓN ALEJANDRO , CORONADO-BLANCO JUANA M.
Published: May 2014

The genus Monarea Szépligeti is recorded from Mexico for the first time. A new species, Monarea fridae sp. nov., is described and illustrated from the states of Morelos, Puebla and Jalisco, Mexico. The phylogenetic placement of the genus is investigated based on nuclear (28S) and mitochondrial (COI) DNA sequence data. Based on the relationships recovered, Monarea is transferred to the tribe Holcobraconini, which is also supported by features of the internal ovipositor structure and the venom glands and reservoir. A key to the four currently recognised species of Monarea is provided.
Loricaseius lepontinus gen. nov., sp. nov., a new genus and species of eviphidid mite from the Italian Alps (Acari: Mesostigmata), with an updated key to
European genera of the family Eviphididae
Authors: PLUMARI MASSIMO , MAŠÁN PETER
Published: May 2014

A new monotypic genus and a new free-living edaphic species of the family Eviphididae, Loricaseius lepontinus gen. nov., sp. nov., are described on the basis of adults and deutonymphs collected from litter detritus in the Italian Lepontine Alps (Piemonte, Val d’Ossola). The new genus is characterized by a widened and truncate idiosomal vertex with widely spaced setae j2, peritrematal shields extensively expanded laterally in adult stages, narrowed intercoxal region, tarsus I dorsally concave, and strong sexual dimorphism of some secondary sexual characters (dorsal sculpture, posteroventral sclerotization of soft integument, shape of anal shield, opisthogastric and posterodorsal chaetotaxy). Also, the female’s anal shield is surrounded by a large area of strongly sclerotized skin that resembles a ventri-anal shield, with well-developed anterolateral extensions projecting between the dorsal and peritrematal shields, and posteriorly and laterally fused with the dorsal shield. We show that this may be an unusual type of age-related secondary sclerotization unknown in the family. An updated key to European genera of the family is presented.
Lissothuria caboblanquensis n. sp., a new species of sea cucumber (Holothuroidea: Dendrochirotida: Psolidae) from Costa Rica
Authors: ARRIAGA-OCHOA J. A. , ALVARADO J. J. , SOLÍS-MARÍN F. A. , Laguarda-Figueras Alfredo
Published: May 2014

A new species of sea cucumber of the genus Lissothuria Verrill, 1867 is described. Lissothuria caboblanquensis n. sp. was found in the Costa Rican Pacific, at 17 m depth. The presence of towers with spiny apex and the elaborated shape of the hourglasses in the dorsal body wall, make this species unique among the species of this genus. This species is distinctive within the genus. The shape of the ossicles shows some similarities with L. nutriens H. L. Clark, 1901 and L. hancocki (Deichmann, 1941).
To systematics of the genus Saetheria Jackson (Diptera, Chironomidae) from the Russian Far East
Authors: OREL OKSANA V.
Published: May 2014

The genus Saetheria Jackson from the Russian Far East is reviewed. The males of S. reissi Jackson, 1977, S. tamanipparai (Sasa, 1983) and S. tylus (Townes, 1945) are redescribed and figured. The pupa of S. reissi is redescribed and illustrated. The larva of S. reissi Jackson is described for the first time. Comments on the systematics and distribution of each species are provided. Paracladopelma kisopediformis Sasa, Kondo, 1993 is designated a new junior synonym of S. reissi Jackson, 1977. Keys to the males, pupae and larvae of the Russian Saetheria are given.
Why Should Ensemble Spread Match the RMSE of the Ensemble Mean?
Authors: Fortin V. , Abaza M. , Anctil F. , Turcotte R.
Published: May 2014

When evaluating the reliability of an ensemble prediction system, it is common to compare the root-mean-square error of the ensemble mean to the average ensemble spread. While this is indeed good practice, two different and inconsistent methodologies have been used over the last few years in the meteorology and hydrology literature to compute the average ensemble spread. In some cases, the square root of average ensemble variance is used, and in other cases, the average of ensemble standard deviation is computed instead. The second option is incorrect. To avoid the perpetuation of practices that are not supported by probability theory, the correct equation for computing the average ensemble spread is obtained and the impact of using the wrong equation is illustrated.
An Advanced Radiosonde System for Aerospace Applications
Authors: Divya U. S. , Girija J. , Satyanarayana S. , Zachariah John P.
Published: May 2014

The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO)’s Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) has developed a new GPS radiosonde, called Pisharoty sonde, with its ground station for atmospheric research and operational meteorology. The latest version of this radiosonde weighs 125 g and uses a bead thermistor, a capacitive humidity sensor, and a GPS receiver module. It computes geopotential heights and pressures using the temperature and GPS altitude profile. This paper describes the radiosonde and its associated ground system, summarizes its different versions, and discusses balloon tests of the newly developed version, including comparisons with internationally accepted high-quality radiosondes.
Ironie et ambiguïtés en Qohélet 10,12–15
Authors: Lavoie Jean-Jacques
Published: May 2014

L’auteur présente un état de la recherche des critiques des sources et des analyses structurelle et littéraire de Qohélet 10,12–15. Puis, il poursuit son enquête en montrant comment l’ironie emprunte les voies de l’ambiguïté sémantique.
The Validity of the Achievement-Orientation Model for Gifted Middle School Students
Authors: Ritchotte Jennifer A. , Matthews Michael S. , Flowers Claudia P.
Published: May 2014

Gifted underachievement represents a frustrating loss of potential for society. Although attempts have been made to develop interventions to reverse gifted underachievement, the theoretical underpinnings of these interventions have yet to be empirically validated. The purpose of this study was to investigate the validity of the Achievement-Orientation Model for gifted middle school students. Based on a sample of 156 gifted sixth- and seventh-grade mathematics students, results of the current study suggest two unique clusters of gifted students, those whose attitudes toward each of the model’s constructs are positive and those who attitudes are not as positive. Furthermore, results of a path analysis demonstrate that most of the relationships posited by the model do appear to exist. The findings of this study suggest that the Achievement-Orientation Model may hold promise for the development of interventions to address gifted underachievement.
Mechanical properties, tribological behavior, and biocompatibility of high-density polyethylene/carbon nanofibers nanocomposites
Authors: Xu Songbo , Akchurin Aydar , Liu Tian , Wood Weston , Tangpong XW , Akhatov Iskander S , Zhong Wei-Hong
Published: May 2014

Carbon nanofibers (CNFs) with silane coatings were used as the reinforcement to enhance the mechanical and tribological properties of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) at different loading levels (0.5 wt% and 3 wt%). To improve the interfacial bonding between the CNFs and HDPE matrix, two types of silane coating thicknesses, 2.8 nm and 46 nm, were applied onto oxidized CNFs. Mechanical properties of the HDPE/CNF nanocomposites including Young’s modulus, ultimate stress, strain at fracture, as well as work of fracture, were investigated through tensile testing. The wear tests were performed on a pin-on-disk tribometer under the bovine serum lubricated condition. The coefficient of friction of the materials in contact with steel balls was monitored over the duration of the wear test. The addition of CNFs not only decreased the coefficients of friction of the nanocomposites, but also reduced their wear rates. The thicker silane-treated CNFs were found to be more effective in reducing the coefficients of friction and elongating the strain of fracture compared with the pristine CNFs and thinner silane-treated ones. The biocompatibility of the nanocomposites against a mouse osteoblast precursor cell line was also evaluated. Among the several types of nanocomposites, the one reinforced with the thicker silane-treated CNFs (46 nm) at 0.5 wt% loading level yielded the highest strain at fracture, the best wear resistance with a wear rate reduction of nearly 57.9% compared to the neat HDPE, and good biocompatibility, making it a promising material for biomedical applications.
Will the Real Scientists Please Stand Up? Taboo Topics, Creative Risk, and Paradigm Shift
Authors: Richards Ruth
Published: May 2014

The “real scientist” brings not only investigative ingenuity but also courage and integrity that permit a challenging of the status quo. Here, three issues and their relationship are considered: (a) Taboo Topics as per Norman Farberow’s 1963 book, where conscious/unconscious fears and prohibitions can hinder scientific progress, (b) creative qualities catalyzing open-mindedness and pursuit of truth, and (c) factors heightening or lowering resistance to paradigm shift as per Thomas Kuhn—including sudden change when the data become overwhelming. A key illustration involves parapsychology and the work of Stanley Krippner and colleagues—showing long-standing and rigorous research, plus efforts to disseminate findings and to open minds.
Alcohol, duty-of-care and common law – where do the consequences of drunken behaviour lie?
Authors: Brett Francesca , Tormey William
Published: May 2014

Legal issues around the duty of care in common law with regard to addictive legal drugs are evolving. Two recent cases came before the Irish courts dealing with the issue of duty of care of alcohol suppliers to intoxicated individuals. In both cases the intoxication was self-induced and the consequences were lethal. The juxtaposition of personal autonomy and duty of care cannot ignore personal responsibility. Do we need protection from ourselves?
A (Creative) Portrait of the Uncertain Individual
Authors: Rios Kimberly , Markman Keith D. , Schroeder Juliana , Dyczewski Elizabeth A.
Published: May 2014

Building on findings that self-uncertainty motivates attempts to restore certainty about the self, particularly in ways that highlight one’s distinctiveness from others, we show that self-uncertainty, relative to uncertainty in general, increases creative generation among individualists. In Studies 1 to 3, high (but not low) individualists performed better on a creative generation task after being primed with self-uncertainty as opposed to general uncertainty. In Study 4, this effect emerged only among those who were told that the task measured creative as opposed to analytical thinking, suggesting that the positive effects of self-uncertainty on performance are specific to tasks that bolster perceptions of uniqueness. In Study 5, self-uncertain individualists experienced a restoration of self-clarity after being induced to think about themselves as more (vs. less) creative. Implications for compensatory responses to self-uncertainty and factors that influence creativity are discussed.
Honor and the Stigma of Mental Healthcare
Authors: Brown Ryan P. , Imura Mikiko , Mayeux Lara
Published: May 2014

Most prior research on cultures of honor has focused on interpersonal aggression. The present studies examined the novel hypothesis that honor-culture ideology enhances the stigmatization of mental health needs and inhibits the use of mental health services. Study 1 demonstrated that people who strongly endorsed honor-related beliefs and values were especially concerned that seeking help for mental health needs would indicate personal weakness and would harm their reputations. Studies 2 and 3 showed that honor states in the U.S. South and West invested less in mental healthcare resources, compared with non-honor states in the North (Study 2), and that parents living in honor states were less likely than parents in non-honor states to use mental health services on behalf of their children (Study 3). Together, these studies reveal an overlooked consequence of honor ideology for psychological well-being at the individual, social, and institutional levels.
The Failure of Cross-country Regression Analysis in Measuring the Impact of Foreign Aid
Authors: Collodel Andrew Giovanni , Kotzé Derica Alba
Published: May 2014

Foreign aid is publicly motivated by a moral obligation to help the poor and develop underdeveloped countries. Despite the vast amount of foreign aid spent annually to address the poverty of millions of people and the economic decline of underdeveloped countries, very little headway has been made. First, this article argues that aid does not work in isolation and many variables influence growth and development and thus the impact of foreign aid; and second that cross-country regression analysis is an inappropriate method to measure the effectiveness of aid. It emphasizes that the methodology used to measure the impact of foreign aid is too generalist. It concludes that foreign aid cannot be treated as a homogenous entity that works equally in all countries in all types of environment and across all times. There is an urgent need to develop a new methodology for measuring the effectiveness of foreign aid.
The Logic of External Reform Resistance
Authors: Parke Dana M. , Fails Matthew D.
Published: May 2014

Thanks in large part to survey efforts such as the Afrobarometer, scholars have developed and tested a variety of theoretical models explaining why citizens in sub-Saharan Africa hold supportive or, conversely, dissatisfied attitudes toward the economic and political reforms of the last several decades. Much of this research highlights citizens’ rational evaluation of the new regimes’ performance as the critical component. In this article, we advance an alternative argument, namely that citizens also care about the origins of these political and economic transformations. When citizens view these changes as externally imposed, they are less likely to develop supportive and satisfied attitudes toward the process of economic reform and democracy. Original interview data from Dakar, Senegal strongly supports our argument. The findings have important implications for a continent where economic and political institutions have long been shaped by outside actors.
Prevalence of neck pain in migraine and tension-type headache: A population study
Authors: Ashina Sait , Bendtsen Lars , Lyngberg Ann C , Lipton Richard B , Hajiyeva Nazrin , Jensen Rigmor
Published: May 2014

Background

We assessed the prevalence of neck pain in the population in relation to headache.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study, a total of 797 individuals completed a headache interview and provided self-reported data on neck pain. We identified migraine, TTH or both migraine and TTH (M+TTH) groups. Pericranial tenderness was recorded in 496 individuals. A total tenderness score (TTS) was calculated as the sum of local scores with a maximum score of 48.

Results

The one-year prevalence of neck pain was 68.4% and higher in those with vs. without primary headache (85.7% vs. 56.7%; adjusted OR 3.0, 95% CI 2.0–4.4, p < 0.001). Adjusting for age, gender, education and poor self-rated health, in comparison with those without headaches, the prevalence of neck pain (56.7%) was significantly higher in those with M+TTH (89.3%), pure TTH (88.4%) and pure migraine (76.2%) ( p < 0.05 for all three group comparisons). Individuals with neck pain had higher TTS than individuals without neck pain (15.1 ± 10.5 vs. 8.4 ± 8.0, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Neck pain is highly prevalent in the general population and even more prevalent in individuals with primary headaches. Prevalence is highest in coexistent M+TTH, followed by pure TTH and migraine. Myofascial tenderness is significantly increased in individuals with neck pain.
Evaluating environmental impacts of alternative construction waste management approaches using supply-chain-linked life-cycle analysis
Authors: Kucukvar Murat , Egilmez Gokhan , Tatari Omer
Published: May 2014

Waste management in construction is critical for the sustainable treatment of building-related construction and demolition (C&D) waste materials, and recycling of these wastes has been considered as one of the best strategies in minimization of C&D debris. However, recycling of C&D materials may not always be a feasible strategy for every waste type and therefore recycling and other waste treatment strategies should be supported by robust decision-making models. With the aim of assessing the net carbon, energy, and water footprints of C&D recycling and other waste management alternatives, a comprehensive economic input–output-based hybrid life-cycle assessment model is developed by tracing all of the economy-wide supply-chain impacts of three waste management strategies: recycling, landfilling, and incineration. Analysis results showed that only the recycling of construction materials provided positive environmental footprint savings in terms of carbon, energy, and water footprints. Incineration is a better option as a secondary strategy after recycling for water and energy footprint categories, whereas landfilling is found to be as slightly better strategy when carbon footprint is considered as the main focus of comparison. In terms of construction materials’ environmental footprint, nonferrous metals are found to have a significant environmental footprint reduction potential if recycled.
In vitro and in vivo characterization of a fully resorbable and composite surgical mesh
Authors: Sandor Maryellen , Scott Nalinai , Edwards Marianne , Qi Shijie , De Deyne Patrick G
Published: May 2014

Fully resorbable and composite synthetic meshes are intended to provide advantages over nonabsorbable synthetic meshes, such as minimization of visceral adhesions and improved biocompatibility, but the inflammatory response to these materials has not previously been fully characterized. We compared resorbable and composite synthetic meshes using in vitro characterization and evaluated the host response in a nonhuman primate acute abdominal wall defect. After a 2-week in vitro incubation, resorbable synthetic mesh mechanical strength decreased to 0.12 ± 0.09 N (0.25% of initial strength), which preceded acidification and a fractured morphology at 1 month. The composite synthetic mesh strength decreased to 10.0 ± 3.2 N (41.1% of initial strength), coincident with morphological changes. In vivo, resorbable synthetic mesh elicited an intense yet transient foreign-body response, with macrophages and myofibroblasts persisting through 3 months of implantation. At 6 months, resorbable synthetic mesh was undetectable and the mesh–host tissue interface strength (14.7 ± 7.9 N) was equivalent to that of primary repair (21.4 ± 4.9 N). The composite synthetic mesh elicited a significant foreign-body response following 1 month of implantation. By 3 months, the composite synthetic mesh resorbable films had fully degraded, with foreign-body reaction localized to polypropylene fibers. By 6 months, macrophages had surrounded these polypropylene fibers, with a myofibroblast-positive capsule encircling a macrophage-rich layer. Resorbable and composite synthetic meshes may ultimately not be the most ideal biomaterials in situations where the biological response is expected to lead to a regeneration of host soft tissues.
In vitro degradation and in vivo biocompatibility of chitosan–poly(butylene succinate) fiber mesh scaffolds
Authors: Costa-Pinto Ana R , Martins Ana M , Castelhano-Carlos Magda J , Correlo Vitor M , Sol Paula C , Longatto-Filho Adhemar , Battacharya Mrinal , Reis Rui L , Neves Nuno M
Published: May 2014

In tissue engineering, the evaluation of the host response to the biomaterial implantation must be assessed to determine the extent of the inflammatory reaction. We studied the degradation of poly(butylene succinate) and chitosan in vitro using lipase and lysozyme enzymes, respectively. The subcutaneous implantation of the scaffolds was performed to assess tissue response. The type of inflammatory cells present in the surrounding tissue, as well as within the scaffold, was determined histologically and by immunohistochemistry. In the presence of lipase or lysozyme, the water uptake of the scaffolds increased. Based on the weight loss data and scanning electron microscopy analysis, the lysozyme combined with lipase had a notable effect on the in vitro degradation of the scaffolds. The in vivo implantation showed a normal inflammatory response, with presence of neutrophils, in a first stage, and macrophages, lymphocytes, and giant cells in a later stage. Vascularization in the surrounding tissue and within the implant increased with time. Moreover, the collagen deposition increased with time inside the implant. In vivo, the scaffolds maintained the structural integrity. The degradation in vitro was faster and greater compared to that observed in vivo within the same time periods.
Immuno- and hemocompatibility of amino acid pairing peptides for potential use in anticancer drug delivery
Authors: Naahidi Sheva , Jafari Mousa , Logan Megan , Edalat Faramarz , Khademhosseini Ali , Dixon Brian , Chen Pu
Published: May 2014

Amino acid pairing peptide-based nanoparticles were recently introduced as promising carriers for hydrophobic anticancer drugs. The AC8 peptide, n-FEFQFNFK-c, is based on the amino acid pairing (AAP) design with 8 amino acids and hence the designated name AAP8. The nanoparticles (NPs) AAP8 have modified either on the C-terminal or on both terminal, by conjugation with diethylene glycol (DEG) . Here, the in vitro biocompatibilities of the NPs and their modified versions were compared and the potential of these NPs as carriers for the hydrophobic anticancer drug pirarubicin was determined as well as the peptide-drug co-assembly complexes. The toxicity of the NPs, DEGylated NPs, and blended mixtures with pirarubicin, was tested against the human adenocarcinoma lung cancer cell line, A549. The amino-end DEGylated NP, (NP-I), had superior biocompatibility over the non-modified NPs or double DEGylated NPs (NP-II). NP-I had very low hemolytic activity (1%) while NP and NP-II had marginal (8%) and acceptable (5%) hemolytic activity, respectively. All three types of NPs did not activate the complement system via the classical and alternative pathways nor did they activate the anaphylotoxin C3a. However, NP-II and its drug complex effectively activate the complement terminal attack complex. The lectin pathway was not activated by NP-I and NP-II, but was to a small extent by the non-modified NPs, with no lectin activation when complexed with drug. These results indicate NP-I is the most promising peptide for use as a drug delivery system, highlighting the importance of proper modification in peptides for drug delivery systems.
Putting path dependence in its place: toward a Taxonomy of institutional change
Authors: Rixen Thomas , Viola Lora Anne
Published: May 2014

Stalled progress on explaining institutional change is, in part, the result of two conceptual challenges that hinder effective theory building: concept stretching and concept proliferation. These problems affect a hallmark concept of institutional change, path dependence, whose usefulness has been curtailed by the variety of meanings attributed to it. This article seeks to remedy concept stretching and proliferation by developing a taxonomy of institutional change explanations. Starting with the core attributes of path dependence, increasing returns and endogeneity, we use the procedure of ‘negative identification’ to derive a logically complete set of possible change explanations. The result is a taxonomy in which the scope of path dependence is delimited vis-à-vis other change explanations. We illustrate the usefulness of the taxonomy by assessing stretching in the literature.
Fault detection and isolation based on bond graph modeling and empirical residual evaluation
Authors: Niu Gang , Zhao Yajun , Tran Van Tung
Published: May 2014

Fault detection and isolation are critical for safety related complex systems like aircraft, trains, automobiles, power plants and chemical plants. In order to realize a robust and real time monitoring and diagnosis for these types of multi-energy domain systems, this paper presents a novel scheme that integrates bond graph modeling for fault signatures establishment, and a multivariate state estimation technique-based empirical estimation for residual generation followed by a Sequential Probability Ratio Test-based residual evaluation for monitoring alarm. Once a fault is detected and alerted, a synthesized non-null coherence vector is created, and then matched with the pre-designed fault signatures matrix to isolate possible faults. To identify the effectiveness of the proposed methodology, a simulation for pneumatic equalizer control unit of locomotive electronically controlled pneumatic brake is conducted. The experimental results show that satisfied performance of fault detection and isolation can be obtained with lower miss alarm and timely response, which make it suitable for complex systems modeling and intelligent maintenance.
Gas pulsation study for reciprocating compressors in chemical plants
Authors: Ghanbariannaeeni A , Ghazanfarihashemi Gh
Published: May 2014

Steps for studying pressure variation resulting from oscillatory flow in reciprocating compressors is the main subject of this article. These variations in pressure are referred to as “pulsation”. Interacting between plant piping and equipment, possibility of resonance conditions, high vibrations, support degradation, and high risk of fatigue failures caused by dynamic forces and induced by the pulsation, are the most commonly observed problems.
Soft tissue augmentation with PMMA-microspheres for the treatment of HIV-associated buttock lipodystrophy
Authors: Serra Marcio Soares , Gonçalves Leonardo Zacharias , Ramos-e-Silva Marcia
Published: May 2014

Summary

Progression of lipodystrophy syndrome is a big challenge in HIV treatment. Nowadays, fat loss at the lower part of buttocks has become another problem as patients have started to complain that it is painful to be seated for a long time and/or on hard surfaces. We developed a method for buttock lipoatrophy treatment with PMMA-microspheres, as silicone prostheses and autologous fat transplant were not completely efficient. The treatment consisted of net-crossed injections, in the subcutaneous layer, of a 30% PMMA-microspheres solution on the atrophic areas of the buttock. One hundred and fifty-four patients were included. The amount of PMMA-microspheres used to treat buttock lipoatrophy depended on the degree of atrophy and size of the area to be treated. Patients were satisfied with this treatment and reported to be more comfortable to be seated for longer period of time. We demonstrated that soft tissue augmentation with PMMA-microspheres is safe and efficient for the treatment of buttock lipoatrophy associated with HIV lipodystrophy.
Design, simulation, and testing of a magnetorheological fluid–based haptic actuator for mobile applications
Authors: Ryu Semin , Koo Jeong-Hoi , Yang Tae-Heon , Pyo Dongbum , Kyung Ki-Uk , Kwon Dong-Soo
Published: May 2014

This article presents a novel design of a miniature haptic actuator based on magnetorheological fluids for mobile applications with the aim of providing various haptic sensations to users in mobile devices. The primary design goal for a haptic actuator for mobile applications is to miniaturize its size while achieving large forces and low power consumption. To this end, this study proposes to design the actuator’s piston head (or plunger) in cone shape and activate multiple modes of magnetorheological fluids. A prototype actuator was designed and fabricated based on a simulation model. Using a dynamic test frame, the performance of the prototype actuator was evaluated in terms of the force (resistive force) produced by the prototype. The results show that the small actuator (10 mm × 10 mm × 6.5 mm) produced a maximum resistive force of about 5 N and the force rate of nearly 80% at 0.3 W. This change in resistive force or the force rate is sufficient to provide several steps of force variation that is explicitly perceivable for operators, depending on the input power. The results demonstrate a feasibility of using the proposed actuator’s applications in mobile devices, conveying realistic haptic sensations to users.
The May 1 Marchers in Los Angeles
Authors: Dionne Kim Yi , DeWitt Darin , Stone Michael , Chwe Michael Suk-Young
Published: May 2014

In this article, we study protest participants in the May 2006 immigration rights marches in Los Angeles. Analysis of original survey data of 876 march participants yields five main results. First, despite substantial dispute among organizers on how to frame the marches, we find protest participants were similar across march locations organized by different coalitions. Second, we find Spanish-English bilingual participants seemed to benefit from being in two media environments, as they reported more information sources about the protest events than monolingual participants. Third, women reported hearing about the protest events from more information sources, and Spanish-English bilingual women reported hearing from more information sources than any other group, suggesting they acted as social connectors behind the massive participation. Fourth, we confirm the importance of Spanish-language radio as an information source, but our data also point to the significance of television and English-language radio. Finally, analyzing data of first-time protesters, we estimate the immigrant rights marches newly politicized 125,000 people in Los Angeles who spoke Spanish and not English.
An examination of barriers to physical education for Christian and Muslim girls attending comprehensive secondary schools in the UK
Authors: Elliott Dave , Hoyle Kathryn
Published: May 2014

This study examined barriers to Physical Education (PE) in a sample of Christian and Muslim schoolgirls attending UK comprehensive secondary schools. Also assessed was whether religion and school year (age) had any impact upon barrier strength and if school year × religion interactions existed. A questionnaire was developed and exploratory factor analysis was utilised to uncover barrier factors. Six factors were found; these were: ‘Self-Conscious’, ‘Sensations’, ‘Embarrassment’, ‘Dislike/Unimportant’, ‘PE Uniform’ and ‘Religiosity’. For the total sample, the highest quotient was assigned to the ‘PE Uniform’ barrier factor. The remaining barrier factors received relatively low quotients. When analysed by religious persuasion, it was found that four of the barrier factors were rated significantly higher by the Muslim girls. For both Christian and Muslim samples, barrier strength tended to increase in line with school year (age). School year × religion interactions were also evident. These results provide a contemporary picture of potential barriers to PE for girls attending comprehensive secondary schools in the UK.
Contextualizing condom use: Intimacy Interference, stigma, and unprotected sex
Authors: Starks Tyrel J , Payton Gregory , Golub Sarit A , Weinberger Corina L , Parsons Jeffrey T
Published: May 2014

Intimate relationships have received increasing attention as a context for HIV transmission. We examined the relationships among perceptions that condoms interfere with intimacy, gay-related stigma, and unprotected/protected anal intercourse. Participants included 245 single-identified men who have sex with men. Intimacy Interference was positively associated with number of unprotected anal intercourse acts, and this effect was stronger among participants who reported high levels of gay-related stigma. In contrast, Intimacy Interference was negatively associated with number of protected anal intercourse acts, and gay-related stigma was positively associated with this outcome with no evidence of interaction effects. The findings are explained in the context of rejection sensitivity theory, and implications for public health and clinical intervention are discussed.
The relationship between worry tendency and sleep quality in Chinese adolescents and young adults: The mediating role of state–trait anxiety
Authors: Yan Youwei , Lin Rongmao , Tang Xiangdong , He Fei , Cai Weiling , Su Yankui
Published: May 2014

To investigate the relationship between worry tendency and sleep quality and the mediating effect of state–trait anxiety, 1072 adolescents and young adults from Jiangxi and Fujian Provinces in China were administered questionnaires pertaining to worry tendency, sleep quality, and state–trait anxiety. The results showed significant grade differences for worry tendency, sleep quality, and state–trait anxiety. Worry tendency was negatively associated with sleep quality, which was mediated by state anxiety and trait anxiety. There is a need for interventions that aim to reduce the level of worry tendency to ensure good sleep quality and the progression from worry tendency to anxiety and to poor sleep quality.
Rural Latino adolescent health: Preliminary examination of health risks and cultural correlates
Authors: Nelson Timothy D , Kidwell Katherine M , Armenta Brian E , Crockett Lisa J , Carlo Gustavo , Whitbeck Les B
Published: May 2014

Latino adolescents living in rural settings may be at increased risk of health problems; however, data describing the health status of this population are limited. This study examined 60 rural Latino adolescents and found high rates of health risk, including at-risk/clinical results for hemoglobin A1C (23.3%), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (55%), systolic blood pressure (21.7%), and overweight/obesity (55%). Time in sedentary behaviors was high and physical activity was limited. Adolescent language use was associated with health risk status, with greater use of English associated with lower risk. Health psychologists could promote improved health by providing health behavior interventions to this underserved population.
Dans Le Noir? Eating in the dark: sensation and conviviality in a lightless place
Authors: Edensor Tim , Falconer Emily
Published: May 2014

Drawing on ethnographic interviews with customers, this paper looks at the experience of dining at Dans le Noir?, a restaurant in London where eating is carried out in complete darkness. As an exemplary gastro-tourist site within the expanding leisure economy at which sensory alterity is sought, we argue that the transformation of the usual unreflexive habits of sensing while dining offer opportunities to encounter difference and reflect upon our culturally located ways of sensing the world. In focusing upon the altered experience of apprehending space, eating and socialising in the absence of light, we contend that this dining experience offers broader suggestions about how we might reconsider the qualities and potentialities of darkness, a condition which has been historically feared and reviled in the west.
The relationship between blood pressure and sciatic nerve blood flow velocity in rats with insulin-treated experimental diabetes
Authors: Olver T Dylan , Grisé Kenneth N , McDonald Matthew W , Dey Adwitia , Allen Matti D , Rice Charles L , Lacefield James C , Melling CW James , Noble Earl G , Shoemaker J Kevin
Published: May 2014

Peripheral nerve blood flow (NBF) does not autoregulate but, instead, responds passively to changes in mean arterial pressure (MAP). How this relationship is impacted by insulin-treated experimental diabetes (ITED) is unknown. We tested the hypothesis that ITED will reduce NBF across a range of MAP in Sprague Dawley rats. Following 10 weeks of control or ITED conditions, conscious MAP (tail-cuff) was measured, and under anaesthesia, the MAP (carotid artery catheter, pressure transducer) and NBF (Doppler ultrasound, 40 MHz) responses to sodium nitroprusside (60 µg/kg) and phenylephrine (12 µg/kg) infusion were recorded (regression equations for MAP vs NBF were created for each rodent). Thereafter, motor nerve conduction velocity (MNCV) and nerve vascularization (haematoxylin and eosin stain) were determined. Conscious MAP was higher and MNCV was lower in the ITED group ( p < 0.01). In response to drug infusions, the ΔMAP and ΔNBF were similar between groups ( p ≥ 0.18). Estimated conscious NBF (based on substituting conscious MAP values into each individual regression equation) was greater in the ITED group ( p < 0.01). Sciatic nerve vascularization was similar between groups ( p ≥ 0.50). In contrast to the hypothesis, NBF was not reduced across a range of MAP. In spite of increased estimated conscious NBF values, MNCV was reduced in rats with ITED.
“‘Do This! Do That!’ and Nothing Will Happen”
Authors: Kennedy Joshua B.
Published: May 2014

How effective is unilateral presidential power? Recent developments have shifted presidential scholarship in the direction of a more institutional approach, and one of the most important tenets of this work holds that the president has the ability to make policy on his own. However, there is significant anecdotal evidence suggesting that agency responsiveness to executive orders is not at all guaranteed. This study leverages a unique data set tracing the implementation of executive orders across 10 government agencies, and the results indicate that despite conventional wisdom, presidential directives are not universally implemented, and a host of factors come to bear on an agency’s decision as to whether they will respond. This project represents among the first quantitative empirical assessments of the utility of unilateral power and suggests that the field may benefit most from shifting toward a bargaining-based model similar to those used in legislative scholarship.
Management of stable angina
Authors: Yerrakalva Dharani , Yerrakalva Dhrupadh
Published: May 2014

Stable angina is a common but significant condition. Coronary artery disease is the most common cause of this disease. As well as symptom management, there is significant potential for secondary prevention of cardiovascular events in all patients with angina. This article gives a structured, evidence-based framework for managing stable angina and the risk factors for coronary artery disease in the primary care setting.