bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trichomonas vaginalis Incidence Associated with Hormonal Contraceptive Use and HIV Infection among Women in Rakai, Uganda
Authors: Brahmbhatt Heena , Musoke Richard , Makumbi Frederick , Kigozi Godfrey , Serwadda David , Wawer Maria , Gray Ronald
Published: March 2014

Background. Data on the incidence of Trichomonas vaginalis and use of hormonal contraception (HC) are limited. Methods. 2,374 sexually active women aged 15–49 years from cohort surveys in Rakai, Uganda, were included. Incidence of T. vaginalis was estimated per 100 person years (py) and association between HC (DMPA, Norplant, and oral contraceptives) and T. vaginalis infection was assessed by incidence rate ratios (IRR), using Poisson regression models. Results. At baseline, 34.9% had used HC in the last 12 months, 12.8% HIV+, 39.7% with high BV-scores (7–10), and 3.1% syphilis positive. The 12-month incidence of T. vaginalis was 2.4/100 py; CI (1.90, 3.25). When stratified by type of HC used, compared to women who did not use HC or condoms, incidence of T. vaginalis was significantly higher among users of Norplant (adj.IRR = 3.01, CI: 1.07–8.49) and significantly lower among DMPA users (adj.IRR = 0.55, CI: 0.30, 0.98) and women who discontinued HC use at follow-up (adj.IRR = 0.30, CI: 0.09, 0.99). HIV infection was associated with an increase in incidence of T. vaginalis (adj.IRR = 2.34, CI: 1.44, 3.78). Conclusions. Use of Norplant and being HIV+ significantly increased the risk of T. vaginalis, while use of DMPA and discontinuation of overall HC use were associated with a decreased incidence of T. vaginalis.
The Effect of Minjingu Phosphate Rock and Triple Superphosphate on Soil Phosphorus Fractions and Maize Yield in Western Kenya
Authors: Nyambati Robert Orangi , Opala Peter Asbon
Published: March 2014

We tested the effects of triple superphosphate (TSP) and Minjingu phosphate rock (MPR), when applied at phosphorus (P) rates of 50 or 250 kg P ha−1 in a factorial combination with urea or Tithonia diversifolia green manure as nitrogen sources, on P availability and maize yields for two seasons at Nyabeda and Khwisero in Kenya. Phosphorus availability was determined by the Olsen method or sequential fractionation. There was no significant difference in Olsen P as influenced by TSP and MPR at 50 kg P ha−1 irrespective of the N source at both sites in both seasons. However, at 250 kg P ha−1, TSP gave significantly higher Olsen P than MPR. The labile P fractions generally followed the same trend as the Olsen P. Maize yields increased with increasing amount of P applied. Generally, there was no significant difference between TSP and MPR on maize yields irrespective of the N source. The Olsen-P, Resin-P, and sodium bicarbonate inorganic P correlated well with maize yields when TSP was used but the correlations between these P tests and maize yields for MPR were not consistent and therefore their use on soils treated with MPR should be exercised with caution.
Thermodynamic Analysis of Ethanol Dry Reforming: Effect of Combined Parameters
Authors: Kale Ganesh R. , Gaikwad Tejas M.
Published: March 2014

The prospect of ethanol dry reforming process to utilize CO2for conversion to hydrogen, syngas, and carbon nanofilaments using abundantly available biofuel—ethanol, and widely available environmental pollutant CO2is very enthusiastic. A thermodynamic analysis of ethanol CO2reforming process is done using Gibbs free energy minimization methodology within the temperature range 300–900°C, 1–10 bar pressure, and CO2to carbon (in ethanol) ratio (CCER) 1–5. The effect of individual as well as combined effect of process parameters such as temperature, pressure, and CCER was determined on the product distribution. Optimum process conditions for maximising desired products and minimizing undesired products for applications such as gas to liquids (GTL) via fischer tropsch synthesis, syngas generation for Solid oxide fuel cells, and carbon nanofilament manufacture were found in this study.
Appendicitis in De Garengeot's Hernia Presenting as a Nontender Inguinal Mass: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Ahmed K. , Bashar K. , McHugh T. J. , McHugh S. M. , Kavanagh E.
Published: March 2014

Introduction. De Garengeot first described a femoral hernia containing the appendix in 1731. Appendicitis occurring in this rare clinical setting represents a challenge in diagnosis and management.Case Presentation. We present the case of a 71-year-old male with a three-day history of a nontender inguinal mass. Computed tomography (CT) suggested a femoral hernia. Intraoperatively, the hernia sac was noted to contain a perforated appendix.Discussion. This is an infrequently reported clinical scenario and only the 14th reported case in peer-reviewed literature which includes preoperative CT images. Our case adds to previously reported low sensitivity of CT for diagnosing De Garengeot’s hernia. Furthermore, unlike our case the vast majority of previous reports noted a painful inguinal swelling.Conclusion. Perforated appendicitis in a femoral hernia is an extremely uncommon presentation. However, consideration should be given to De Garengeot’s hernia in patients with a groin mass, even if nontender.
Controversial Issues in Kyphoplasty and Vertebroplasty in Osteoporotic Vertebral Fractures
Authors: Papanastassiou Ioannis D. , Filis Andreas , Gerochristou Maria A. , Vrionis Frank D.
Published: March 2014

Kyphoplasty (KP) and vertebroplasty (VP) have been successfully employed for many years for the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral fractures. The purpose of this review is to resolve the controversial issues raised by the two randomized trials that claimed no difference between VP and SHAM procedure. In particular we compare nonsurgical management (NSM) and KP and VP, in terms of clinical parameters (pain, disability, quality of life, and new fractures), cost-effectiveness, radiological variables (kyphosis correction and vertebral height restoration), and VP versus KP for cement extravasation and complications profile. Cement types and optimal filling are analyzed and technological innovations are presented. Finally unipedicular/bipedicular techniques are compared.Conclusion. VP and KP are superior to NSM in clinical and radiological parameters and probably more cost-effective. KP is superior to VP in sagittal balance improvement and cement leaking. Complications are rare but serious adverse events have been described, so caution should be exerted. Unilateral procedures should be pursued whenever feasible. Upcoming randomized trials (CEEP, OSTEO-6, STIC-2, and VERTOS IV) will provide the missing link.
Contexts of HIV-Related Risk Behaviors among Male Customers at Asian Massage Parlors in San Francisco
Authors: Nemoto Tooru , Iwamoto Mariko , Eilkhani Elnaz , Sakata Maria , Le Mai Nhung , Morris Anne
Published: March 2014

Based on focus groups for male customers who frequented Asian massage parlors in San Francisco, the present study described their sexual and drug use behaviors and attitudes toward practicing safe sex with Asian masseuses. A pervasive view among patrons was that they could engage in sex with masseuses without using a condom if they offered extra money. Their sexual behaviors with Asian masseuses were influenced by perceptions about vulnerability toward HIV/STIs, substance use behaviors, and masseuses’ initiation of condom use, which was often governed by unspoken rules at parlors. Customers perceived massage parlors as being a safe place compared with street sex venues. Some customers sought emotional attachment with Asian masseuses and expressed stereotypical views toward them as being docile and submissive. Culturally appropriate HIV/STI prevention programs (e.g., communication about and practicing 100% condom use) are needed to target both customers and Asian masseuses at multiple levels (individual, owner/manager, work environment, and community levels). Also, customers’ and masseuses’ perceptions toward relationships at massage parlors and power dynamics need further investigation to promote safe work environments and 100% condom use at massage parlors.
Preoperative Butyrylcholinesterase Level as an Independent Predictor of Overall Survival in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma Patients Treated with Nephrectomy
Authors: Koie Takuya , Ohyama Chikara , Mikami Jotaro , Iwamura Hiromichi , Fujita Naoki , Sato Tendo , Kojima Yuta , Fukushi Ken , Yamamoto Hayato , Imai Atsushi , Hatakeyama Shingo , Yoneyama Takahiro , Hashimoto Yasuhiro , Kitayama Masato , Hirota Kazuyoshi
Published: March 2014

The prognostic factors for the overall survival (OS) of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) patients treated with nephrectomy are not well defined. In the present study, we investigated the prognostic significance of preoperative butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) levels in 400 ccRCC patients undergoing radical or partial nephrectomy from 1992 to 2013 at our institution. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the clinical factors associated with OS. Among the enrolled patients, 302 were diagnosed with organ-confined disease only (T1-2N0M0), 16 with lymph node metastases, and 56 with distant metastases. The median preoperative BChE level was 250 U/L (normal range, 168–470 U/L), and median follow-up period was 36 months. The 3-year OS rate in patients with preoperative BChE levels of ≥100 U/L was significantly higher than in those with levels of <100 U/L (89.3% versus 77.7%,P=0.004). On univariate analysis, performance status; anemia; hypoalbuminemia; preoperative levels of BChE, corrected calcium, and C-reactive protein; and distant metastasis status were significantly associated with OS. Multivariate analysis revealed that preoperative BChE levels and distant metastasis status were significantly associated with OS. Our findings suggest a possible role of preoperative BChE levels as an independent predictor of OS after nephrectomy in ccRCC patients.
Actual Incidence and Clinical Behaviour of Follicular Thyroid Carcinoma: An Institutional Experience
Authors: De Crea Carmela , Raffaelli Marco , Sessa Luca , Ronti Simona , Fadda Guido , Bellantone Chiara , Lombardi Celestino Pio
Published: March 2014

Follicular thyroid carcinoma classically accounts for 10–32% of thyroid malignancies. We determined the incidence and the behaviour of follicular thyroid carcinoma in an endemic goitre area. A comparative analysis between minimally invasive and widely invasive follicular thyroid carcinoma was performed. The medical records of all patients who underwent thyroidectomy from October 1998 to April 2012 for thyroid malignancies were reviewed. Those who had a histological diagnosis of follicular carcinoma were included. Among 5203 patients, 130 (2.5%) were included. Distant metastases at presentation were observed in four patients. Sixty-six patients had a minimally invasive follicular carcinoma and 64 a widely invasive follicular carcinoma. In 63 patients an oxyphilic variant was registered. Minimally/widely invasive ratio was 41/26 forusual follicular carcinomaand 25/38 for oxyphilic variant (P<0.05). Patients with widely invasive tumors had larger tumors (P<0.001) and more frequently oxyphilic variant (P<0.05) than those with minimally invasive tumours. No significant difference was found between widely invasive and minimally invasive tumors and betweenusual follicular carcinomaand oxyphilic variant regarding the recurrence rate (P=NS). The incidence of follicular thyroid carcinoma is much lower than classically retained. Aggressive treatment, includingtotal thyroidectomyand radioiodine ablation, should be proposed to all patients.
Structural and Acoustic Responses of a Submerged Stiffened Conical Shell
Authors: Chen Meixia , Zhang Cong , Tao Xiangfan , Deng Naiqi
Published: March 2014

This paper studies the vibrational behavior and far-field sound radiation of a submerged stiffened conical shell at low frequencies. The solution for the dynamic response of the conical shell is presented in the form of a power series. A smeared approach is used to model the ring stiffeners. Fluid loading is taken into account by dividing the conical shell into narrow strips which are considered to be local cylindrical shells. The far-field sound pressure is solved by the Element Radiation Superposition Method. Excitations in two directions are considered to simulate the loading on the surface of the conical shell. These excitations are applied along the generator and normal to the surface of the conical shell. The contributions from the individual circumferential modes on the structural responses of the conical shell are studied. The effects of the external fluid loading and stiffeners are discussed. The results from the analytical models are validated by numerical results from a fully coupled finite element/boundary element model.
Comparison between Peroneus Brevis Flap and Reverse Sural Artery Flap for Coverage of Lower One-Third Leg Defects
Authors: Thammannagowda Ramesha Kunchekoppal , Ashish Ghuge , Mudukappa Shankarappa , Pushkar Dehpande , Vijayakumar Abhishek
Published: March 2014

Posttraumatic wounds and soft tissue defects in the distal third of the leg and ankle remain a challenge. Defects at this site will often require flap cover. Free flap is ideal for these defects and gives good results but with its own limitations. The reverse sural artery flap (RSAF) and distal peroneus brevis flap (DPBF) have gained popularity for lower third leg defects among surgeons. We did a retrospective study on 64 patients admitted between 2011 and 2013 with posttraumatic moderate size defects of lower one-third leg who underwent RSAFs and DPBFs. These patients were followed up in the immediate and late postoperative period for complications and outcome assessment. The average surface area covered by DPBF was 27 cm2 and by RSAF was 38 cm2. Both flaps gave a good functional outcome. DPBF has better aesthetic appearance at donor site and recipient site, with the advantages of ease of surgery, speedy recovery, less hospital stay, and no donor site morbidity; DPBFs appear to be a preferred choice for moderate size lower third leg defects. RSAFs should be chosen over DPBFs for defects in medial malleolus and larger size defects.
Analysis of the Behrens-Fisher Problem Based on Bayesian Evidence
Authors: Yin Yuliang , Li Baoren
Published: March 2014

The Behrens-Fisher problem concerns the inferences for the difference between the means of two normal populations without making any assumption about the variances. Although the problem has been extensively studied in the literature, researchers cannot agree on its solution at present. In this paper, we propose a new method for dealing with the Behrens-Fisher problem in the Bayesian framework. The Bayesian evidence for testing the equality of two normal means and a credible interval at a specified level for the difference between the means are derived. Simulation studies are carried out to evaluate the performance of the provided Bayesian evidence.
Particle Production at CBM Energies in a Thermal Model Approach
Authors: Prakash A. , Srivastava P. K. , Singh B. K.
Published: March 2014

The compressed baryonic matter (CBM) experiment planned at the Facility for Antiproton and Ion Research (FAIR) will provide a major scientific effort for exploring the properties of strongly interacting matter in the high baryon density regime. One of the important goals behind such experiment is to precisely determine the equation of state (EOS) for the strongly interacting matter at extremely large baryon density. In this paper, we have used some successful models for RHIC and LHC energies to predict different particle ratios and the total multiplicity of various hadrons in the CBM energy range, that is, from 10 A GeV to 40 A GeV lab energies, which corresponds to 4.43 A GeV and 8.71 A GeV center-of-mass energies. Our main emphasis is to estimate the strange particles enhancement as well as an increase in the net baryon density at CBM experiment. We have also compared the model results with the experimental data obtained at alternating gradient synchrotron (AGS) and super proton synchrotron (SPS).
HO-3867, a Safe STAT3 Inhibitor, Is Selectively Cytotoxic to Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Rath Kellie S. , Naidu Shan K. , Lata Pushpa , Bid Hemant K. , Rivera Brian K. , McCann Georgia A. , Tierney Brent J. , ElNaggar Adam C. , Bravo Veronica , Leone Gustavo , Houghton Peter , Hideg Kálmán , Kuppusamy Periannan , Cohn David E. , Selvendiran Karuppaiyah
Published: March 2014

STAT3 is well corroborated preclinically as a cancer therapeutic target, but tractable translational strategies for its blockade by small molecule inhibitors have remained elusive. In this study, we report the development of a novel class of bifunctional STAT3 inhibitors, based on conjugation of a diarylidenyl-piperidone (DAP) backbone to an N-hydroxypyrroline (–NOH) group, which exhibits minimal toxicity against normal cells and good oral bioavailability. Molecular modeling studies of this class suggested direct interaction with the STAT3 DNA binding domain. In particular, the DAP compound HO-3867 selectively inhibited STAT3 phosphorylation, transcription, and DNA binding without affecting the expression of other active STATs. HO-3867 exhibited minimal toxicity toward noncancerous cells and tissues but induced apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells. Pharmacologic analysis revealed greater bioabsorption and bioavailability of the active (cytotoxic) metabolites in cancer cells compared with normal cells. The selective cytotoxicity of HO-3867 seemed to be multifaceted, eliciting differential activation of the Akt pathway in normal versus cancer cells. RNAi attenuation experiments confirmed the requirement of STAT3 for HO-3867–mediated apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells. In vivo testing showed that HO-3867 could block xenograft tumor growth without toxic side effects. Furthermore, in primary human ovarian cancer cells isolated from patient ascites, HO-3867 inhibited cell migration/invasion and survival. Our results offer preclinical proof-of-concept for HO-3867 as a selective STAT3 inhibitor to treat ovarian cancer and other solid tumors where STAT3 is widely upregulated. Cancer Res; 74(8); 2316–27. ©2014 AACR.
Genetic Suppression of Inflammation Blocks the Tumor-Promoting Effects of TGF-β in Gastric Tissue
Authors: Ota Mitsuhiko , Horiguchi Masahito , Fang Victoria , Shibahara Kotaro , Kadota Kyuichi , Loomis Cynthia , Cammer Michael , Rifkin Daniel B.
Published: March 2014

The contributions of TGF-β signaling to cancer are complex but involve the inflammatory microenvironment as well as cancer cells themselves. In mice encoding a TGF-β mutant that precludes its binding to the latent TGF-β binding protein (Tgfb1−/C33S), we observed multiorgan inflammation and an elevated incidence of various types of gastrointestinal solid tumors due to impaired conversion of latent to active TGF-β1. By genetically eliminating activators of latent TGF-β1, we further lowered the amount of TGF-β, which enhanced tumor frequency and multiorgan inflammation. This model system was used to further investigate the relative contribution of TGF-β1 to lymphocyte-mediated inflammation in gastrointestinal tumorigenesis. Toward this end, we generated Tgfb1−/C33S;Rag2−/− mice that lacked adaptive immune function, which eliminated tumor production. Analysis of tissue from Tgfb1−/C33S mice indicated decreased levels of P-Smad3 compared with wild-type animals, whereas tissue from Tgfb1−/C33S;Rag2−/− mice had normal P-Smad3 levels. Inhibiting the inflammatory response normalized levels of interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 and reduced tumor cell proliferation. In addition, Tgfb1−/C33S;Rag2−/− mice exhibited reduced paracrine signaling in the epithelia, mediated by hepatocyte growth factor produced by gastric stroma. Together, our results indicate that many of the responses of the gastric tissue associated with decreased TGF-β1 may be directly or indirectly affected by inflammatory processes, which accompany loss of TGF-β1, rather than a direct effect of loss of the cytokine. Cancer Res; 74(9); 2642–51. ©2014 AACR.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Reasons for Phase III Failure and Novel Perspectives on Trial Design
Authors: Llovet Josep M. , Hernandez-Gea Virginia
Published: March 2014

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major health problem. Most patients with HCC experience a recurrence after resection/ablation or are diagnosed at advanced stages. Sorafenib remains the only approved systemic drug for these patients. Molecular therapies targeting signaling cascades involved in hepatocarcinogenesis have been explored in phase III clinical trials. However, none of the drugs tested have shown positive results in the first-line (brivanib, sunitinib, erlotinib, and linifanib) or second-line (brivanib, everolimus) setting after sorafenib progression. Reasons for failure are heterogeneous and include lack of understanding of critical drivers of tumor progression/dissemination, liver toxicity, flaws in trial design, or marginal antitumoral potency. These trials are also challenging time to progression as a surrogate endpoint of survival. Trials ongoing testing drugs head-to-head versus sorafenib in “all comers” might have difficulties in achieving superior results in the first line. Novel trials are also designed testing drugs in biomarker-based subpopulations of patients with HCC. Most common mutations, however, are undruggable, such as p53 and CTNNB1. Two types of studies are proposed: (i) phase II pivotal proof-of-concept studies testing drugs blocking potential oncogenic addiction loops, such as the one testing MEK inhibitors in RAS+ patients or amplification of FGF19 as a target; and (ii) phase II to III studies using biomarker-based trial enrichment for defining HCC subpopulations, such as the case of enriching for MET-positive tumors. These strategies have been deemed successful in breast, melanoma, and lung cancers, and are expected to change the landscape of trial design of HCC. Clin Cancer Res; 20(8); 2072–9. ©2014 AACR.
Immune Cell–Poor Melanomas Benefit from PD-1 Blockade after Targeted Type I IFN Activation
Authors: Bald Tobias , Landsberg Jennifer , Lopez-Ramos Dorys , Renn Marcel , Glodde Nicole , Jansen Philipp , Gaffal Evelyn , Steitz Julia , Tolba Rene , Kalinke Ulrich , Limmer Andreas , Jönsson Göran , Hölzel Michael , Tüting Thomas
Published: March 2014

Infiltration of human melanomas with cytotoxic immune cells correlates with spontaneous type I IFN activation and a favorable prognosis. Therapeutic blockade of immune-inhibitory receptors in patients with preexisting lymphocytic infiltrates prolongs survival, but new complementary strategies are needed to activate cellular antitumor immunity in immune cell–poor melanomas. Here, we show that primary melanomas in Hgf-Cdk4R24C mice, which imitate human immune cell–poor melanomas with a poor outcome, escape IFN-induced immune surveillance and editing. Peritumoral injections of immunostimulatory RNA initiated a cytotoxic inflammatory response in the tumor microenvironment and significantly impaired tumor growth. This critically required the coordinated induction of type I IFN responses by dendritic, myeloid, natural killer, and T cells. Importantly, antibody-mediated blockade of the IFN-induced immune-inhibitory interaction between PD-L1 and PD-1 receptors further prolonged the survival. These results highlight important interconnections between type I IFNs and immune-inhibitory receptors in melanoma pathogenesis, which serve as targets for combination immunotherapies.

Significance: Using a genetically engineered mouse melanoma model, we demonstrate that targeted activation of the type I IFN system with immunostimulatory RNA in combination with blockade of immune-inhibitory receptors is a rational strategy to expose immune cell–poor tumors to cellular immune surveillance. Cancer Discov; 4(6); 674–87. ©2014 AACR.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 621
Efficacy of Intermittent Combined RAF and MEK Inhibition in a Patient with Concurrent BRAF- and NRAS-Mutant Malignancies
Authors: Abdel-Wahab Omar , Klimek Virginia M. , Gaskell Alisa A. , Viale Agnes , Cheng Donavan , Kim Eunhee , Rampal Raajit , Bluth Mark , Harding James J. , Callahan Margaret K. , Merghoub Taha , Berger Michael F. , Solit David B. , Rosen Neal , Levine Ross L. , Chapman Paul B.
Published: March 2014

Vemurafenib, a RAF inhibitor, extends survival in patients with BRAFV600-mutant melanoma but activates extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK) signaling in RAS-mutant cells. In a patient with a BRAFV600K-mutant melanoma responding to vemurafenib, we observed accelerated progression of a previously unrecognized NRAS-mutant leukemia. We hypothesized that combining vemurafenib with a MAP–ERK kinase (MEK) inhibitor would inhibit ERK activation in the melanoma and prevent ERK activation by vemurafenib in the leukemia, and thus suppress both malignancies. We demonstrate that intermittent administration of vemurafenib led to a near-complete remission of the melanoma, and the addition of the MEK inhibitor cobimetinib (GDC-0973) caused suppression of vemurafenib-induced leukemic proliferation and ERK activation. Antimelanoma and antileukemia responses have been maintained for nearly 20 months, as documented by serial measurements of tumor-derived DNA in plasma in addition to conventional radiographic and clinical assessments of response. These data support testing of intermittent ERK pathway inhibition in the therapy for both RAS-mutant leukemia and BRAF-mutant melanoma.

Significance: We show that in a patient with simultaneous RAS-mutant leukemia and BRAF-mutant melanoma, intermittent RAF inhibitor therapy induced a near-complete melanoma response, and addition of a MEK inhibitor prevented RAF inhibitor-induced activation of the RAS-mutant leukemia. Intermittent therapy may permit greater pathway inhibition with less toxicity, avoid chronic relief of pathway feedback, and have enhanced effectiveness compared with chronic administration. Cancer Discov; 4(5); 538–45. ©2014 AACR.

See related commentary by Davies, p. 510

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 495
In Preeclampsia, Maternal Third Trimester Subcutaneous Adipocyte Lipolysis Is More Resistant to Suppression by Insulin Than in Healthy Pregnancy
Authors: Huda Shahzya S. , Forrest Rachel , Paterson Nicole , Jordan Fiona , Sattar Naveed , Freeman Dilys J.
Published: March 2014

Obesity increases preeclampsia risk, and maternal dyslipidemia may result from exaggerated adipocyte lipolysis. We compared adipocyte function in preeclampsia with healthy pregnancy to establish whether there is increased lipolysis. Subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue biopsies were collected at caesarean section from healthy (n=31) and preeclampsia (n=13) mothers. Lipolysis in response to isoproterenol (200 nmol/L) and insulin (10 nmol/L) was assessed. In healthy pregnancy, subcutaneous adipocytes had higher diameter than visceral adipocytes (
P
<0.001). Subcutaneous and visceral adipocyte mean diameter in preeclampsia was similar to that in healthy pregnant controls, but cell distribution was shifted toward smaller cell diameter in preeclampsia. Total lipolysis rates under all conditions were lower in healthy visceral than subcutaneous adipocytes but did not differ after normalization for cell diameter. Visceral adipocyte insulin sensitivity was lower than subcutaneous in healthy pregnancy and inversely correlated with plasma triglyceride (
r
=−0.50;
P
=0.004). Visceral adipose tissue had lower
ADRB3, LPL
, and leptin and higher insulin receptor messenger RNA expression than subcutaneous adipose tissue. There was no difference in subcutaneous adipocyte lipolysis rates between preeclampsia and healthy controls, but subcutaneous adipocytes had lower sensitivity to insulin in preeclampsia, independent of cell diameter (
P
<0.05). In preeclampsia, visceral adipose tissue had higher
LPL
messenger RNA expression than subcutaneous. In conclusion, in healthy pregnancy, the larger total mass of subcutaneous adipose tissue may release more fatty acids into the circulation than visceral adipose tissue. Reduced insulin suppression of subcutaneous adipocyte lipolysis may increase the burden of plasma fatty acids that the mother has to process in preeclampsia.
Imatinib Mesylate Attenuates Myocardial Remodeling Through Inhibition of Platelet-Derived Growth Factor and Transforming Growth Factor Activation in a Rat Model of Hypertension
Authors: Jang Sung-Won , Ihm Sang-Hyun , Choo Eun-Ho , Kim Ok-Ran , Chang Kiyuk , Park Chan-Seok , Kim Hee-Yeol , Seung Ki-Bae
Published: March 2014

Imatinib mesylate is a specific tyrosine kinase inhibitor that may block the platelet-derived growth factor and transforming growth factor pathways. These pathways are known to provoke fibroblast activation. We evaluated whether imatinib, by inhibiting these pathways, prevents diastolic dysfunction and attenuates myocardial remodeling using spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). Eight-week-old male SHRs were randomly assigned to either imatinib treatment group (30 mg/kg per day; n=10; SHR-I) or hypertensive control group (distilled water, n=10; SHR-C). Wistar–Kyoto rats were used as normal controls (n=10). At 16 weeks, all rats underwent hemodynamic studies and Doppler echocardiography and then were euthanized. Their hearts were extracted for histopathologic, immunoblotting, and quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction analyses. Although imatinib did not affect blood pressure, it markedly reduced perivascular and interstitial fibrosis in the hearts of SHR. Echocardiogram showed that imatinib significantly reduced the left ventricular wall thickness (septal/posterior wall; SHR-C versus SHR-I, 18±1/19±2 versus 15±1/15±1 mm;
P
<0.001) and increased the E/A ratio (SHR-C versus SHR-I, 1.59±0.11 versus 1.84±0.16;
P
=0.001). Also, imatinib significantly reduced the mRNA expression of collagen type I, III, and platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β phosphorylation in the hearts of SHR. In addition, imatinib reduced collagen production by inhibiting the phosphorylation of c-abl and platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β in rat cardiac fibroblasts. In conclusion, these results suggest that imatinib could attenuate myocardial remodeling and improve left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in a hypertensive rat model by affecting platelet-derived growth factor and transforming growth factor-β1 pathway without the blood pressure–lowering effect.
The Tsene-rene and Purim Plays
Authors: Veidlinger Jeffrey
Published: March 2014

This article addresses some of the ways that Eastern European Jews in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries accessed the Bible. It argues that reading the Hebrew Scripture itself was just one of many ways that common Jews became acquainted with biblical stories, and suggests that historians place greater scholarly attention on the extra-canonical sources Jews commonly used to access biblical narratives. Jewish audiences also heard biblical stories through interpretations, popular retellings, and dramatic performances. The article discusses the most popular Yiddish interpretive retelling, the sixteenth-century Tsene-rene, and demonstrates how some of its variances from the canonical text may have influenced Jewish notions of time and redemption. The article concludes with a discussion of some Purimshpils (plays performed during the holiday of Purim) and how they reinforced the ideas of the Tsene-rene.
The Baltic Finnic People in the Medieval and Pre-Modern Eastern European Slave Trade
Authors: Korpela Jukka
Published: March 2014

Raids and the kidnapping of humans in East Europe together with a late medieval and pre-modern Black Sea slave trade are well known in the scholarly literature. This kind of slave trade also extended via the Volga to Caspia and Central Asia. Besides young male slaves, there was a market for small blond boys and girls in both regions, where they were expensive luxury items. Gangs from the Volga, at least, launched raids towards the north, and it is possible that the northern kidnapping raids and the transportation of prisoners from the northern forests to Novgorod were also connected with the southern slave trade.
Il mostro come figura metariflessiva nel teatro italiano del Seicento
Authors: Arnaudo Marco
Published: March 2014

Il saggio investiga la rappresentazione del mostro nel teatro italiano del Seicento, e interpreta come in diversi casi la presenza di questa figura in scena serva a creare un riferimento metateatrale all’opera medesima nella quale il mostro viene inserito. In tal senso, personaggi di mostri in parte umani e in parte animali all’interno di opere teatrali di genere misto assumono il valore di emblema scenico della natura ibrida del testo. E se l’idea di impiegare un mostro per simboleggiare il lavoro artistico “misto” si può rintracciare già in Aristotele e Orazio, gli autori moderni che ricorrono a questo espediente dimostrano sia conoscenza della tradizione letteraria antica, sia un desiderio di innovare rispetto a essa. Il caso più indicativo di tale tendenza viene identificato ne La centaura di Giovan Battista Andreini, che ha tra i protagonisti appunto una centaura, e che nel primo atto è una commedia, nel secondo atto una pastorale, e nel terzo atto una tragedia. Esempi ulteriori provengono da altre opere di Andreini, come anche da lavori di Giovanni Battista Leoni, Margherita Costa, Giulio Strozzi, e Giovanni Briccio.
Physical activity among older people living alone in Shanghai, China
Authors: Chen Yu , While Alison E , Hicks Allan
Published: March 2014

Objective:

To investigate physical activity among older people living alone in Shanghai, People’s Republic of China, and key factors contributing to their physical activity.

Methods:

A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was administered in nine communities in Shanghai, using a stratified random cluster sample: 521 community-dwelling older people living alone (aged 60 years and above) completed a structured questionnaire through face-to-face interviews. Their physical activity was measured using their self-reported frequency of engaging in different types of activities. Other data collected included self-rated health, number of chronic diseases, depression, functional ability, loneliness, social support and socio-demographic variables.

Results:

Only 16.7% of participants reported adequate physical activity, defined as performing at least 30 minutes of moderate/strenuous exercise on at least 5 days per week. A younger age, a lower level of education, better functional ability and walking outside the home 5 – 7 days per week increased the likelihood of adequate physical activity. Gender, self-rated health, number of chronic diseases, depression and social support also had relationships with physical activity levels.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of adequate physical activity in older people living alone in Shanghai was low. In this population, appropriate health education interventions to promote physical activity levels are needed.
Antimicrobial activity of cotton fabric treated with extracts from the lotus plant
Authors: Oh Kyung Wha , Na Young Joo
Published: March 2014

This study evaluated the application of medicinal plants to fabric finishes and the functionality of the fabrics finished with ethanolic extracts of the lotus plant, such as lotus leaf, lotus pot and lotus seed. Treated cotton was dyed a light orange and yellow-green color using lotus pot and lotus leaf, respectively, and the color difference ([Formula: see text]) of fabrics before/after treatment with extract solution of lotus leaf was a maximum of 36.4. When the processing concentration of extract solution and treatment temperature of cotton fabric were increased, the color and color ingredient uptake increased, but the optimal processing time was found to be 30 minutes. Regarding the dyeing properties, the fabrics treated with the lotus leaf extract showed the best color in terms of color intensity, whereas the antibacterial activity was highest in the case of fabric treated with lotus pot extract. Antibacterial activity was significant in the order of lotus pot > lotus leaf > lotus seed. The fabric treated with the lotus leaf extract exhibited significant antibacterial activity only when it was treated at high concentrations (>8%), whereas the fabric treated with the lotus pot extract showed significant antibacterial activity even when treated at low concentrations (4%) or low temperatures (40℃). Accordingly, ethanolic lotus pot extract is recommended as an environment-friendly antibacterial finishing.
Skin comfort of base layer knitted garments. Part 1: Description and evaluation of wearer test protocol
Authors: Stanton John H , Speijers Jane , Naylor Geoffrey RS , Pieruzzini Sara , Beilby John , Barsden Emma , Clarke Amy
Published: March 2014

An important role of garments is to provide adequate comfort. A study was undertaken of the sensory scores for perceived comfort of wool base layer long sleeve knitted T shirts. This paper, the first in a series, describes and evaluates the wearer trial protocol in which untrained female wearers scored tactile, thermal, and moisture-based sensations during a controlled series of activities in a range of controlled climatic environments. Wearer scores were sufficiently consistent, that significant differences in aggregate scores between garments were detected that reflected changes in the fiber type (wool, cashmere, and cotton) and fiber specifications. Prickle and discomfort scores responded to different factors. The importance of choosing appropriate test conditions when assessing garments for particular end uses was highlighted as both the environment and activity affected wearer's perception of garment performance. A novel test feature was the use of a ‘link’ garment common to separate trials. This, combined with the observed absence of an effect due to garment washing, enabled the testing to be expanded so that 38 garments were successfully compared over 30 months in nine trials. Finally while the first trial used 43 wearers to obtain good estimates of absolute comfort levels, it was demonstrated that a reduction to 25 wearers was adequate for later trials with minimal loss in sensitivity.
Optimal injection parameters for multiple qualities in poly lactic acid/nano mica composites
Authors: Kuo Chung-Feng Jeffrey , Huang Chang-Chiun , Lin Shin-Ann , Lan Wei-Lun
Published: March 2014

This study melted and mixed poly lactic acid and nano mica into a new nano composite material for injection molding. The injection parameters for the mixture included the melting time, screw speed, heating plate temperature, nano mica content, melting temperature, nozzle temperature, holding pressure, and injection speed. The quality considerations of the new nano composite material were ultraviolet (UV) absorption rate, far-infrared absorption rate, Rockwell hardness, and flame resistance. This study applied main effect analysis and variance analysis theory of the Taguchi method to analyze the single quality characteristic of the experimental results. The optimal factors and level combination was identified through multi-quality integration using the Analytic Hierarchy Process. After consistent examination and calculation of the total weighting of various parameter levels, as well as the ranking of the parameter levels, the optimal injection parameters were obtained. According to the confirmation experiment results, the Signal-to-Noise ratio of the four qualities for the new nano composite fell within the 95% confidence interval, indicating the experiment was reproducible and reliable. The results indicated that the best qualities for the new nano composite are UV absorption rate at 98.22%, far-infrared absorption rate at 90.53%, Rockwell hardness at 108.07, and the limiting oxygen index for fire resistance rating at 30.
Frictional behavior of carbon fiber tows: a contact mechanics model of tow–tow friction
Authors: Cornelissen Bo , de Rooij Matthijn B , Rietman Bert , Akkerman Remko
Published: March 2014

Composite-forming processes involve mechanical interactions at the ply, tow, and filament level. The deformations that occur during forming processes are governed by friction between the contacting tows on the mesoscopic level and consequently between filaments on the microscopic level. A thorough understanding of the frictional properties at the level of individual filaments is essential to understand and to predict the macroscopic deformations of a textile reinforcement during forming. This work presents a contact mechanics modeling approach to provide a theoretical background of the frictional behavior of dry fibrous tows in contact with each other. The predicted frictional behavior is in qualitative and quantitative agreement with experimentally observed frictional forces of carbon fiber tows in sliding contact. The relative orientation of the contacting tows is of great importance for the developed frictional forces in the contact.
Synthesis and application of a formaldehyde-free flame retardant for bamboo viscose fabric
Authors: Zhou Xiangdong , Chen Kun , Yi Hui
Published: March 2014

A formaldehyde-free flame retardant (EFFR) for bamboo viscose fabric was synthesized by raw materials of silanol, phosphorus pentoxide, and diethanolamine. The flame retardant had the dual function of imparting fire resistance and softness to bamboo viscose fabric; moreover, it had no halogen and free formaldehyde, and wouldn’t release formaldehyde during processing and end-use. The experimental results about choice of cross-linker stated that the cross-linker played a significant role in decreasing the flammability of bamboo viscose fabrics and improving durability of flame retardance. Cross-linkers of hexamethylol melamine (HMM) or dimethylol dihydroxy ethylene urea (DMDHEU) or water-soluble isocyanate-terminated (WIT) not only cross-linked with flame retardant and bamboo viscose cellulose to enhance durability of inflaming retarding, but also had nitrogen to improve nitrogen–phosphorus synergism. However, HMM and DMDHEU can release free formaldehyde. WIT is a kind of cross-linker which has no formaldehyde. The experimental results showed that the Limiting Oxygen Index (LOI) value of Vis-EFFR–WIT treated fabric was basically above 30%, and the handle of the finished fabric was ameliorated greatly because of its organosilyl constituent part, even after 30 laundry cycles, the fabric still had some flame retardancy and soft feeling.
A comparative study of polyvinylidene fluoride and polypropylene hernia meshes in creep behavior and elasticity
Authors: Wang Yingchu , Zhang Peihua
Published: March 2014

Polypropylene (PP) is widely used in hernia repair for its compatibility with most mesh constructions. Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) is a non-absorbable fluoropolymer with improved biostability, lower bending stiffness and less tissue reaction. Creep behavior and elasticity are significant properties of hernia mesh that influence the surgical handling of mesh and the postoperative recurrence. This work compares PVDF monofilament and hernia mesh with PP in creep deformation and elastic recovery percentage. The experimental results indicate that PVDF monofilament and mesh exhibit larger elastic recovery percentage, higher initial elongation and less creep deformation than PP mesh. The creep deformation of PVDF mesh in wale and course directions are 3.19 mm and 5.38 mm, which for PP mesh in wale and course directions are 7.73 mm and 8.30 mm. PVDF mesh has better performance in shape stability and elasticity. Additionally, creep models are used to analyze the experimental data and predict the long-term creep deformation. This method greatly reduces the time of creep experiment. In contrast to the four-element model and the Eyring's model, the modified generalized Maxwell model is more suitable to describe the creep curves of hernia meshes. Better agreements between theoretical and measured creep curves are observed. The predicted results demonstrate that PVDF mesh has better long-term shape stability than PP mesh.
Generative work: Day labourers’ Freirean praxis
Authors: Theodore Nik
Published: March 2014

This paper examines an important aspect of the politicisation of contingent work: the evolution of grassroots organising strategies by immigrant day labourers, an allegedly ‘unorganisable’ class of contingent workers. The paper focuses on the ways in which repertoires of contestation – based in a philosophy of social transformation through radical democracy and Popular Education – have defused from mass-movement social struggles in Latin America in the 1980s to street-corner organising in US cities today. Through a series of in-depth interviews with day labour organisers, the paper: (1) follows the continental travels of Popular Education methodologies; and (2) explores how organising approaches from the global South have been adapted and recombined to meet the challenges presented by day labour markets in the US which are characterised by rampant violations of core labour standards.
Personality and Opportunity
Authors: Wilcox Pamela , Sullivan Christopher J. , Jones Shayne , van Gelder Jean-Louis
Published: March 2014

This study examines the alternative ways that key personality traits—Agreeableness and Conscientiousness—work in conjunction with measures of situational opportunity in affecting offending and victimization simultaneously. More specifically, we explore (a) the extent to which the effects of Agreeableness and Conscientiousness on offending and victimization are mediated by opportunity, and (b) the extent to which the effects of Agreeableness and Conscientiousness on offending and victimization are moderated by opportunity. These interrelationships are estimated using path modeling of two waves of survey data from a 4-year panel study of 2,220 adolescents. Results suggest that the effects of Agreeableness and Conscientiousness on offending and/or victimization are partially mediated by situational opportunity. Regarding interaction effects, results show that the effects of Agreeableness and Conscientiousness are also moderated by measures of situational opportunity. These traits appear to protect against offending most notably at the highest levels of opportunity.
Crime Scene Behaviors Indicate Risk-Relevant Propensities of Child Molesters
Authors: Lehmann Robert J. B. , Goodwill Alasdair M. , Hanson R. Karl , Dahle Klaus-Peter
Published: March 2014

The current study used crime scene analysis (CSA) to identify the psychological characteristics of child molesters and examined the contribution of these behavioral themes for sexual offender risk assessment. CSA was conducted on a sample of 424 cases of child sexual abuse in Berlin (Germany) using non-metric Multi-Dimensional Scaling. The analysis revealed the behavioral themes of fixation, regression (sexualization), criminality, and (sexualized) aggression, consistent with previous theories and empirical research in child molestation. The construct validity of the four themes was demonstrated through correlational analyses with known sexual offending measures, ratings of offender motivation, and criminal histories. The themes of fixation and (sexualized) aggression were significant predictors of sexual recidivism and added incrementally to the Static-99 for the prediction of sexual recidivism. The results indicate that crime scene information can inform the assessment of child molesters’ risk-relevant propensities and improve the prediction of sexual recidivism.