bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obesity and Diabetes: The Increased Risk of Cancer and Cancer-Related Mortality
Authors: Gallagher Emily Jane , LeRoith Derek
Published: June 2015

Obesity and type 2 diabetes are becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide, and both are associated with an increased incidence and mortality from many cancers. The metabolic abnormalities associated with type 2 diabetes develop many years before the onset of diabetes and, therefore, may be contributing to cancer risk before individuals are aware that they are at risk. Multiple factors potentially contribute to the progression of cancer in obesity and type 2 diabetes, including hyperinsulinemia and insulin-like growth factor I, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, adipokines and cytokines, and the gut microbiome. These metabolic changes may contribute directly or indirectly to cancer progression. Intentional weight loss may protect against cancer development, and therapies for diabetes may prove to be effective adjuvant agents in reducing cancer progression. In this review we discuss the current epidemiology, basic science, and clinical data that link obesity, diabetes, and cancer and how treating obesity and type 2 diabetes could also reduce cancer risk and improve outcomes.
In Vitro Assessment of Cadmium Bioavailability in Chinese Cabbage Grown on Different Soils and Its Toxic Effects on Human Health
Authors: Aziz Rukhsanda , Rafiq Muhammad Tariq , He Zhenli , Liu Di , Sun Kewang , Xiaoe Yang
Published: June 2015

The minimum concentration of cadmium (Cd), by Chinese cabbage grown on Cd contaminated soils that can initiate toxicity in human liver cells using in vitro digestion coupled with Caco-2/HL-7702 cell models was studied. Cadmium bioaccessibility in the gastric phase for yellow soil (YS) cabbage (40.84%) and calcareous soil (CS) cabbage (21.54%) was significantly higher than small intestinal phase with the corresponding values of 21.2% and 11.11%, respectively. Cadmium bioavailability was higher in YS cabbage (5.27%–14.66%) than in CS cabbage (1.12%–9.64%). Cadmium concentrations (>0.74 μg) transported from YS and CS cabbage were able to induce oxidative (MDA, H2O2) stress by inhibiting antioxidant (SOD, GPx) enzyme activities in human liver cells (HL-7702). Additionally the study revealed that the ingestion of Cd contaminated Chinese cabbage grown in acidic soil (yellow soil) weakened the antioxidant defense system under all levels of contamination (2, 6, and 9 mg·kg−1) which ultimately escalated the oxidative stress in liver cells; however, in case of CS cabbage, a marked oxidative stress was observed only at 9 mg kg−1Cd level of soil. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor Cd concentrations in leafy vegetables grown on acidic soils to minimize human health risk.
Modification of Grout Properties in Prepacked Aggregate Concrete Incorporating Palm Oil Fuel Ash
Authors: Hodjati Reza , Aslani Hossein , Faridmehr Iman , Awal A. S. M. Abdul , Kazemi Ziba
Published: June 2015

Prepacked aggregate concrete (PAC) is a type of concrete that is placed in two stages where the coarse aggregates are first placed inside the formworks and then the grout is pumped from underneath through a manual pump. Grout properties including density, grout consistency, bleeding, and compressive strength are of great importance in PAC. Such properties could be improved by application of pozzolanic materials like palm oil fuel ash. This paper is aimed at finding the most optimum percentage of POFA replacement by weight of cement. It was concluded that 30% POFA replacement yielded the most optimum results.
Cervical Cancer Screening Program by Visual Inspection: Acceptability and Feasibility in Health Insurance Companies
Authors: Horo Apollinaire G. , Didi-Kouko Coulibaly Judith , Koffi Abdoul , Tchounga Boris , Seni Konan , Aka Kacou Edèle , Kone Mamourou
Published: June 2015

Objective. To assess willingness to participate and diagnostic accuracy of visual inspection for early detection of cervical neoplasia among women in a health insurance company.Patients and Method. Cervical cancer screening was systematically proposed to 800 women after consecutive information and awareness sessions. The screening method was visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) or Lugol’s iodine (VILI).Results. Among the 800 identified women, 640 (82%) have accepted the screening, their mean age was 39 years, and 12.0% of them were involved in a polygamist couple. 28.2% of women had prior cervical screening. VIA has been detected positive in 5.9% of women versus 8.6% for VILI. The sensitivity was 72.9% and specificity was 95.2% for VIA versus 71.2% and 97.3% for VILI respectively. The histological examination highlighted a nonspecific chronic cervicitis in 4.6%, CIN1 lesions in 5.91%, and CIN2/3 in 1.2% of the cases.Conclusion. Cervical cancer screening by visual inspection showed appropriate diagnostic accuracy when used to detect early cervical lesions. It is a simple and easy to perform method that could be introduced progressively in the health insurance policy while waiting for a national screening program.
An Inflammatory Pseudotumor Arising from Pterygopalatine Fossa with Invasion to the Maxillary Sinus and Orbital Cavity
Authors: Yokoi Hidenori , Yazawa Takuya , Matsumoto Yuma , Ikeda Tetsuya , Fujiwara Masachika , Ohkura Yasuo , Kohno Naoyuki
Published: June 2015

We report a patient who had an inflammatory pseudotumor (IPT) that invaded to the maxillary sinus and orbital cavity, with the left pterygopalatine fossa as the principal site; this is a very rare case. The patient was an 83-year-old woman who suddenly became aware of impairment in the eyesight and visual field of the left eye. CT images showed a neoplastic lesion that invaded to the maxillary sinus and orbital cavity, with the left pterygopalatine fossa as the principal site, and also showed contrast effects. To obtain a definitive diagnosis from histopathological analysis, the lesion was biopsied, and she was diagnosed as the inflammatory pseudotumor with the immunohistochemical study and multiplex polymerase chain reaction-based clonality assays. The patient had a lymphoid-predominant lesion that responded to radiotherapy but corticosteroids were not effective. It is important to scrutinize the pathology to avoid unnecessary and mutilating surgery.
A Mutagenesis Assay for Reporter Gene Screening Using Partially Degenerate Oligonucleotides of the Tandems NNT and NNC
Authors: Xu Huifen , Zhou Cuilan , Zhang Andy K. , Li Wen , Zhang Jia , Li Kai
Published: June 2015

Not all proteins are tolerable to mutations. Whether a specific protein can be a mutable target is of importance in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry. This study reported a novel mutagenesis assay using tandem NNT and NNC oligonucleotides to test the mutability of a candidate gene. These two tandem oligonucleotides avoid the risk of forming nonsense mutations and render flexibility of truncating or expanding the insertion size. As a reporter gene, ZeoR (zeocin resistance gene) was confirmed to have a high tolerance for mutagenesis by this new assay.
Neuropsychological Characteristics and Their Association with Higher-Level Functional Capacity in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Miura Kayoko , Matsui Mie , Takashima Shutaro , Tanaka Kortaro
Published: June 2015

Background/Aims: Little is known about the relationship between cognitive functions and higher-level functional capacity (e.g. intellectual activity, social role, and social participation) in Parkinson's disease (PD). The purpose of this study was to clarify neuropsychological characteristics and their association with higher-level functional capacity in PD patients. Methods: Participants were 31 PD patients and 23 demographically matched healthy controls. Neuropsychological tests were conducted. One year later, a questionnaire survey evaluated higher-level functional capacity in daily living. Results: The PD group scored significantly lower than the control group in all cognitive domains, particularly executive function and processing. Executive function, processing speed, language, and memory were significantly correlated with higher-level functional capacity in PD patients. Stepwise regression showed that only executive function (Trail Making Test-B), together with disease severity (HY stage), predicted the higher-level functional capacity. Conclusion: Our findings provide evidence of a relationship between executive function and higher-level functional capacity in patients with PD.
Early Evolution of Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus ON1 Strains: Analysis of the Diversity in the C-Terminal Hypervariable Region of Glycoprotein Gene within the First 3.5 Years since Their Detection
Authors: Ivancic-Jelecki Jelena , Forcic Dubravko , Mlinaric-Galinovic Gordana , Tesovic Goran , Nikic Hecer Ana
Published: June 2015

Objective: Characterization of the phylogeny and diversity of human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) genotype ON1 that occurred during its early evolution (within the first 3.5 years since the detection of the first ON1 strains). ON1 strains have a 72-nucleotide-long in-frame duplication within the second hypervariable domain of the glycoprotein gene (HVR2). Methods: All available HVR2 sequences of strains belonging to the ON1 genotype published prior to June 20, 2014 were collected. Multiple sequence alignments, phylogeny, phylogeography, sequence clustering and putative protein analyses were performed. Results: The worldwide spread and diversification of ON1 strains are presented. Only in a minority of ON1 strains do the two replicas remain identical, and various ON1 strains possess common differences between the first and the second copy (segments A and B). Mutations of the progenitor sequence were more frequent in segment B, a higher overall diversity on the protein level and more putative glycosylation sites exist in segment B, and, unlike in segment A, positive selection acts on that protein region. Conclusions: The fast spread of the novel HRSV genotype ON1 has been accompanied by its rapid concurrent diversification. Differences in variability of the two replicas within HVR2 were detected, with C-terminal replica being more variable.
Chlorhexidine Anaphylaxis Masquerading as Septic Shock
Authors: Hong Choon Chiet , Wang Siew May , Nather Aziz , Tan Jiong Hao , Tay Sen Hee , Poon Keah How
Published: June 2015

Chlorhexidine is a commonly used antiseptic and disinfectant in the health-care setting. Its usage has increased in recent years with intensive campaigns and infection control guidelines to combat hospital-acquired infections. As a result, patients and health-care workers (HCW) are exposed to increasing chlorhexidine usage. In recent years, adverse reactions to chlorhexidine ranging from allergic contact dermatitis, photosensitivity, fixed drug eruptions, urticaria and anaphylactic shock have been reported. Most have been isolated case reports on adverse reactions occurring in healthy individuals or HCW. We report a case of anaphylactic shock caused by applying chlorhexidine cleansing solution and masquerading as septic shock from left-leg necrotising fasciitis.
Differential Promoter Methylation of Macrophage Genes Is Associated With Impaired Vascular Growth in Ischemic Muscles of Hyperlipidemic and Type 2 Diabetic Mice
Authors: Babu Mohan , Durga Devi Thota , Mäkinen Petri , Kaikkonen Minna , Lesch Hanna P. , Junttila Sini , Laiho Asta , Ghimire Bishwa , Gyenesei Attila , Ylä-Herttuala Seppo
Published: June 2015

Rationale:

Hyperlipidemia and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) severely impair adaptive vascular growth responses in ischemic muscles. This is largely attributed to dysregulated gene expression, although details of the changes are unknown.

Objective:

To define the role of promoter methylation in adaptive vascular growth in hyperlipidemia (LDLR
–/–
ApoB
100/100
) and T2DM (IGF-II/LDLR
–/–
ApoB
100/100
) mouse models of hindlimb ischemia.

Methods and Results:

Unilateral hindlimb ischemia was induced by ligating femoral artery. Perfusion was assessed using ultrasound, and capillary and arteriole parameters were assessed using immunohistochemistry. Genome-wide methylated DNA sequencing was performed with DNA isolated from ischemic muscle, tissue macrophages (Mϕs), and endothelial cells. Compared with the controls, hyperlipidemia and T2DM mice showed impaired perfusion recovery, which was associated with impaired angiogenesis and arteriogenesis. Genome-wide proximal promoter DNA methylation analysis suggested differential patterns of methylation in Mϕ genes in ischemic muscles. Classically activated M1-Mϕ gene promoters, including Cfb, Serping1, and Tnfsf15, were significantly hypomethylated, whereas alternatively activated M2-Mϕ gene promoters, including Nrp1, Cxcr4, Plxnd1, Arg1, Cdk18, and Fes, were significantly hypermethylated in Mϕs isolated from hyperlipidemia and T2DM ischemic muscles compared with controls. These results combined with mRNA expression and immunohistochemistry showed the predominance of proinflammatory M1-Mϕs, compared with anti-inflammatory and proangiogenic M2-Mϕs in hyperlipidemia and T2DM ischemic muscles.

Conclusions:

We found significant promoter hypomethylation of genes typical for proinflammatory M1-Mϕs and hypermethylation of anti-inflammatory, proangiogenic M2-Mϕ genes in hyperlipidemia and T2DM ischemic muscles. Epigenetic alterations modify Mϕ phenotype toward proinflammatory M1 as opposed to anti-inflammatory, proangiogenic, and tissue repair M2 phenotype, which may contribute to the impaired adaptive vascular growth under these pathological conditions.
Sex Differences in the Rate, Timing, and Principal Diagnoses of 30-Day Readmissions in Younger Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Dreyer Rachel P. , Ranasinghe Isuru , Wang Yongfei , Dharmarajan Kumar , Murugiah Karthik , Nuti Sudhakar V. , Hsieh Angela F. , Spertus John A. , Krumholz Harlan M.
Published: June 2015

Background—

Young women (<65 years) experience a 2- to 3-fold greater mortality risk than younger men after an acute myocardial infarction. However, it is unknown whether they are at higher risk for 30-day readmission, and if this association varies by age. We examined sex differences in the rate, timing, and principal diagnoses of 30-day readmissions, including the independent effect of sex following adjustment for confounders.

Methods and Results—

We included patients aged 18 to 64 years with a principal diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction. Data were used from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project-State Inpatient Database for California (07–09). Readmission diagnoses were categorized by using an aggregated version of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ Condition Categories, and readmission timing was determined from the day after discharge. Of 42 518 younger patients with acute myocardial infarction (26.4% female), 4775 (11.2%) had at least 1 readmission. The 30-day all-cause readmission rate was higher for women (15.5% versus 9.7%,
P
<0.0001). For both sexes, readmission risk was highest on days 2 to 4 after discharge and declined thereafter, and women were more likely to present with noncardiac diagnoses (44.4% versus 40.6%,
P
=0.01). Female sex was associated with a higher rate of 30-day readmission, which persisted after adjustment (hazard ratio, 1.22; 95% confidence interval, 1.15–1.30). There was no significant interaction between age and sex on readmission.

Conclusions—

In comparison with men, younger women have a higher risk for readmission, even after the adjustment for confounders. The timing of 30-day readmission was similar in women and men, and both sexes were susceptible to a wide range of causes for readmission.
Disaster-Related Human Rights Violations and Corruption
Authors: Voigt Lydia , Thornton William E.
Published: June 2015

The main goal of this article is to share results of an examination of cases of institutional and structural violations of human rights stemming from various types of corruption, especially in their expression in the later stages of recovery and reconstruction in post-Katrina New Orleans. Utilizing the United Nations definitions of human rights and corruption, our 10-year review finds that a wide variety of disaster-related human rights violations and corruption can be identified in all phases of the disaster. These cases range from failure to plan/implement an adequate response to the impending danger of the hurricanes to failure to protect the public from inadequate products/services to enacting everyday public policies enabling discriminatory practices and denial of human rights to failure to shield the public from official corruption that has continued to prey on disaster victims. Based on our analysis, we recommend ways of safeguarding human rights, including the right to be free from corruption and reducing disaster risks, particularly for the most vulnerable populations in the future.
Resilience and the Neoliberal Project
Authors: Tierney Kathleen
Published: June 2015

Like sustainable development, disaster resilience can be conceptualized as a collective surge in science, policy, and practice. The strength of the resilience surge is based on the concept’s usefulness as a boundary object and in particular its resonance with the discourses and practices of neoliberalization, in which the role of the state is diminished and superseded by private–public partnerships and contracts. Current U.S. resilience approaches support particular types of state–society relationships, construct particular kinds of at-risk subjects, and privilege technocratic solutions to disaster vulnerability. Neoliberal disaster risk reduction strategies and their outcomes had a profound impact on post-Katrina recovery in New Orleans.
Factors Associated With Problems for Adolescents Returning to the Classroom After Sport-Related Concussion
Authors: Baker John G. , Leddy John J. , Darling Scott R. , Rieger Brian P. , Mashtare Terry L. , Sharma Tania , Willer Barry S.
Published: June 2015

The primary objective of this study was to determine factors in the clinic setting associated with concussion-related problems in the school setting. A total of 91 student athletes, 13 to 19 years old, completed the SCAT2 and computerized testing during their initial visit to the clinic. During a follow-up telephone interview, one-third reported problems with return to school. The presence of problems reported in school was associated with severity of concussion as represented by recovery time and the overall number of symptoms at the first clinic visit. Gender, age, and previous concussions were not associated with school problems. Athletes with computerized test scores below the ninth percentile were more likely to report school problems. The current study offers some descriptive information for clinicians and ideas for future research related to adolescent athletes with concussion and problems with return to the classroom.
Screening for Hematological Disorders in Mosaic Down Syndrome
Authors: Santoro Stephanie L. , Martin Lisa J. , Hopkin Robert J.
Published: June 2015

Children with Down syndrome (DS) have increased risk for multiple medical conditions with published health care guidelines. Current guidelines do not specify whether or not they apply to mosaic DS (mDS). We surveyed families of patients with mDS regarding screening, including monitoring practices as well as complications identified. Hematological complications were similar to those reported in nonmosaic DS. Of 91 parents of children with mDS surveyed, only 69% had ever had a screening lab; only 57% had ever had a screening complete blood count (CBC). Younger children were less likely to be screened (for CBC, 50% of 0- to 3-year-olds vs 90% of 4- to 12-year-olds; P = 0.0036). Screening practices are suboptimal, with the youngest children at greatest risk. Comparing reported screening practices with physician adherence, there was discrepancy between perceptions of adherence and perceptions of practice. Children with mDS should be monitored on the same schedule as other children with DS.
Attachment tHAIRapy
Authors: Ashley Wendy , Brown Jodi Constantine
Published: June 2015

Culturally competent, ethnically relevant treatment strategies are needed to address the attachment needs of foster youth in the child welfare system. Hair is a fundamental element in the lives of African American female youth and can be identified as a protective factor for this population. Furthermore, hair care can provide a context and vehicle for attachment, nurturing, and positive self-worth. Drawing from data obtained through interviews with nine foster girls, the authors endorse pairing two key services for African American female foster youth, namely, traditional psychotherapy and hair care (termed Attachment tHAIRapy). Utilizing a creative, culturally relevant, strengths-based intervention such as Attachment tHAIRapy potentially improves attachment, placement stability, treatment engagement, and self-esteem.
The 1990s: An increasingly postcolonial decade
Authors: Boehmer Elleke , Tickell Alex
Published: June 2015

The article offers a critical contextualized overview of the Journal of Commonwealth Literature in the decade of the 1990s, at a time when it was edited at the Universities of Leeds and Hull. It looks at the journal’s relations to the emerging and rapidly changing field of postcolonial literary studies, when JCL shifted from offering fairly predictable close readings of writers still predominantly described as “Commonwealth”, to more prominently theorized accounts of migrant and national narratives.
The Heart of Humanistic Psychology
Authors: Robbins Brent Dean
Published: June 2015

Through a philosophical analysis, guided by phenomenology, humanistic psychology is interpreted as a way of knowing that is guided by an interpretive stance of love. Hermeneutics, the study of interpretation, understands that interpretation is guided by certain moods or dispositions. Agape love, or a good will toward others, is an interpretive stance, or hermeneutic, by which others can be understood through an empathic attitude of charitability, which provides a safe space for the other person to disclose himself or herself. An approach to science and practice, when it is grounded in a hermeneutic of love, can be understood to be guided by a recognition that human beings have dignity, which calls us to an ethic of caring. As humanistic psychology is understood to be guided by a hermeneutics of love, its basic philosophical presuppositions are revealed with regard to its ontological, epistemological, and ethical foundations. Whereas dignity is a central concept of humanistic psychology, a hermeneutics of love may be a unique method of access for revealing concretely the reality of human dignity as a foundation for social ethics.
Notable Networks
Authors: Ocakli Feryaz
Published: June 2015

How do Islamists get non-Islamists to vote for them? The existing literature suggests that what drives support for Islamist parties are macro-social transformations, Islamic culture, or Islamist party moderation. These approaches do not explain the variation in Islamist electoral performance. Why do Islamists win elections in some but not in other, very similar, contexts? This article identifies the important role of local elite recruitment and organizational cohesiveness in Islamist electoral performance. It applies the subnational comparative method to demonstrate the causal mechanisms linking local party organizations to Islamist electoral success. Empirical evidence is drawn from in-depth studies of the Justice and Development Party’s (AKP) local branches in three closely-matched pairs of cities in Turkey. The findings bridge the literatures on political Islam and party politics with a new theory of Islamist electoral strategy and performance.
An alternative X-ray shielding material based on coated textiles
Authors: Aral Nebahat , Banu Nergis F , Candan Cevza
Published: June 2015

Lead-shielding products, such as lead aprons, are important materials for personal protection of physicians and patients from X-ray radiation during medical operations. However, lead has environmental disadvantages, with high toxicity. The aim of this study was to manufacture an environmentally friendly and flexible textile-based radiation shielding material. Tungsten, bismuth and barium sulfate powders were used as alternatives to lead with recognized shielding abilities against X-rays. The cotton fabrics were coated with silicone rubber that contains tungsten, bismuth or barium sulfate powders in equal weight fractions. X-ray attenuation ratios of the samples were measured at 80, 100 and 150 kV tube voltages in accordance with medical protection standards. Using the theoretical models, the thicknesses required for 90%, 95% and 99% attenuation ratios at the 100 kV energy level were also estimated for all the materials. The results showed that, at 60% weight ratio, 1.55 mm bismuth embedded coating can attenuate 90% of X-ray photons at the 100 kV level, while the required thickness of a tungsten embedded coating is 1.73 mm for the same protection level. At the same weight ratios the bismuth–silicone rubber blend reached better attenuation ratios per thickness in comparison with tungsten and barium sulfate powder–silicone rubber blends.
The use of problem- and simulation-based learning: The student’s perspective
Authors: Christiansen Sytter , Buus Bøje Rikke , Frederiksen Kirsten
Published: June 2015

The aim of this study was to examine the learning experiences of nursing students when problem-based learning was used as a pedagogical strategy in simulation-based learning. Simulation-based learning has been integrated in nursing curriculums worldwide to address the lack of clinical competency among newly graduated registered nurses. There is little known about the teaching and learning processes that support simulation-based learning. There is also a lack of research studies evaluating students’ experiences with the integration of simulation- and problem-based learning. Data were collected at a School of Nursing in Denmark, and used data from qualitative interviews with six first-year nursing students who had participated in a course about essentials of nursing where problem- and simulation-based learning were used as pedagogical strategies. Meaning condensation was used to analyse data. Our findings suggest that problem-based learning is appropriate in connection with simulation-based learning, but not ideal for the students’ reflections and self-directed problem-solving. The students found participation in the course very motivating and fun due to realism and engagement from facilitators. However, there was a gap between students’ expectations and the intentions of problem-based learning.
Atypical employment in crisis-hit Greek regions: Local production structures, flexibilization and labour market re/deregulation
Authors: Gialis Stelios , Tsampra Maria , Leontidou Lila
Published: June 2015

The article addresses the shifting patterns of atypical employment across the regions of Greece, severely hit by the 2009 crisis. Changes are depicted by NUTS-II level data for the pre- and post-crisis periods of 2005–2009 and 2009–2011. A regional categorization is suggested, as different forms of atypical employment, namely part-time, temporary, solo self-employment and family work, have expanded unevenly across space. The authors argue that different patterns are related to regional specialization and industrial structures differently affected by the crisis. Established forms of atypical employment have been shaken, while new highly precarious ones have been boosted. Moreover, regulatory reforms for higher labour flexibilization have also defined the emergent atypical employment patterns in Greece. The article points out that in the Greek labour market, already marked by high flexibility and poor job security and social benefits, recent regulatory reforms increasing flexibilization have deteriorated labour and devalued atypical employment.
Feeling High but Playing Low
Authors: Rios Kimberly , Fast Nathanael J. , Gruenfeld Deborah H.
Published: June 2015

Past research has demonstrated a causal relationship between power and dominant behavior, motivated in part by the desire to maintain the social distinctiveness created by one’s position of power. In this article, we test the novel idea that some individuals respond to high-power roles by displaying not dominance but instead submissiveness. We theorize that high-power individuals who are also high in the need to belong experience the social distinctiveness associated with power as threatening, rather than as an arrangement to protect and maintain. We predict that such individuals will counter their feelings of threat with submissive behaviors to downplay their power and thereby reduce their distinctiveness. We found support for this hypothesis across three studies using different operationalizations of power, need to belong, and submissiveness. Furthermore, Study 3 illustrated the mediating role of fear of (positive) attention in the relationship between power, need to belong, and submissive behavior.
Preoperative transaortic forward flow: Prediction of surgical outcomes in patients with DCM and mitral regurgitation
Authors: Hirota Masanori , Yoshida Minoru , Hoshino Joji , Kondo Taichi , Isomura Tadashi
Published: June 2015

Background

In patients with dilated cardiomyopathy and mitral regurgitation, preoperative prognostic factors are very important.

Methods

We hypothesized that preoperative transaortic forward flow might be related to postoperative survival, despite mitral regurgitant volume. We retrospectively evaluated surgical outcomes and echocardiographic parameters, including forward flow through the aortic valve.

Results

Seventy-nine patients (54 males, 25 females; mean age 59 ± 12 years) with dilated cardiomyopathy and mitral regurgitation were divided into two groups according to postoperative outcome: 19 patients in group A suffered cardiac death, 60 in group B survived or died of another cause. In group A, death occurred after 227 ± 116 days, group B patients survived (except one who died of infection) for 505 ± 446 days; p < 0.01. Preoperatively, there was no significant difference in ejection fraction, end-diastolic and end-systolic volume index, mitral regurgitant volume, effective regurgitant orifice area, or right ventricular systolic pressure. Preoperative transaortic forward flow was significantly lower in group A vs. group B (1.57 ± 0.33 vs. 1.81 ± 0.46 L m−2; p 0.04). In group B, transaortic forward flow was increased significantly before discharge (1.81 ± 0.51 vs. 2.43 ± 0.62 L m−2; p < 0.01). Ejection fraction was significantly alleviated before discharge (28% ± 9% vs. 23% ± 8%; p < 0.01) and recovered to the preoperative value without repeat dilation of the left ventricle in late follow-up.

Conclusions

Preoperative transaortic forward flow may be a predictor of survival in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy and mitral regurgitation, irrespective of mitral regurgitant volume.
National and Racial-Ethnic Identification
Authors: Rodriguez Victoria C. , Gillen-O’Neel Cari , Mistry Rashmita S. , Brown Christia Spears , Chow Kirby A. , White Elizabeth S.
Published: June 2015

This mixed-methods study explored early adolescents’ national American identification, and meanings attached to being American. Participants ( N = 102; 51% female; ages 10-12, [Formula: see text] = 11.45, SD = .70) were racially and ethnically diverse from primarily middle- to upper-middle class families (median household income = US$150,000-US$199,999; 75% had a college degree or higher). Youth attended a private, secular elementary school with practices designed to celebrate diversity. Participants associated Americans with positive trait stereotypes, symbols (e.g., American flag), nativity status, and particular racial-ethnic groups (e.g., White). Youth who self-identified as American ( n = 51) frequently asserted that being American, defined by their birthplace and residence in the United States, was important. Results suggest that early adolescence is an optimal developmental period to examine the emergence of an American identity, and validate the benefits of using mixed methods in the study of youths’ national and racial-ethnic identification and the accompanying meaning-making process.
Cross-Cultural Household Influence on Vaccination Decisions
Authors: Taylor Eric , Atkins Katherine E. , Medlock Jan , Li Meng , Chapman Gretchen B. , Galvani Alison P.
Published: June 2015

Uptake of vaccination against seasonal influenza is suboptimal in most countries, and campaigns to promote vaccination may be weakened by clustering of opinions and decisions not to vaccinate. This clustering can occur at myriad interacting levels: within households, social circles, and schools. Given that influenza is more likely to be transmitted to a household contact than any other contact, clustering of vaccination decisions is arguably most problematic at the household level. We conducted an international survey study to determine whether household members across different cultures offered direct advice to each other regarding influenza vaccination and whether this advice was associated with vaccination decisions. The survey revealed that household members across the world advise one another to vaccinate, although to varying degrees, and that advice correlates with an increase in vaccination uptake. In addition, respondents in Japan, China, and the United States were less likely to offer advice to older adults than to the young, despite older adults’ being the target age group for vaccination in both Far Eastern countries. Furthermore, advice was not primarily directed to household members within the age groups advised to vaccinate by national health policies. In Japan, advice was offered more to ages outside of the policy guidelines than inside. Harnessing the influence of household members may offer a novel strategy to improve vaccination coverage across cultures worldwide.
Commons-creating Society
Authors: Euler Johannes
Published: June 2015

The main purpose of this contribution is to give an insight into the radical German commons discourse. It rejects naturalist conceptualizations of commons and rather emphasizes the social dimensions. Combining free software and traditional commons, it builds on and goes beyond the Ostrom’s research. Commons are seen as an enabling form and potential foundation for a decentralized and needs-oriented post-capitalist society free of personal and structural domination and beyond the market and state.
The use of polypropylene in bamboo fibre composites and their mechanical properties – A review
Authors: Ibrahim Idowu D , Jamiru Tamba , Sadiku Rotimi E , Kupolati Williams K , Agwuncha Stephen C , Ekundayo Gbenga
Published: June 2015

Bamboo fibre has gained significant interest as a sustainable reinforcement fibre in natural fibre/polymer composites, which is as a result of specific mechanical properties and being a biodegradable material compared to glass fibres. The article also gives a summary of how to improve the mechanical properties of bamboo fibre reinforced polypropylene (BFRP) composites as presented in various researches and the methodology of attaining these ultimate properties of bamboo fibres with polymeric matrices leading to improved BFRP. Mechanical properties of BFRP composites are improved by introducing coupling agent. Fibre treatment and nanoclay addition, in the right proportion, as reported have improved mechanical properties of BFRP composite.
Reproductive toxicity of chlorpyrifos tested in zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Manjunatha Bangeppagari , Philip Gundala Harold
Published: June 2015

This study was carried out to find out whether exposure to environmentally relevant concentration of chlorpyrifos (CP) modulates reproductive competence. To understand this, eight adult male and eight adult female zebrafish ( Danio rerio) were exposed to 200 µg/L of CP for 24, 48, 72, and 96 h. Vitellogenin levels did not show much change in female fish, whereas in male the levels increased with increasing exposure time thereby indicating estrogenecity of the toxicant. Attenuation of serum 11-ketotestosterone in male and serum 17β-estradiol in female was noticed in the exposed fish and thus signified interference of CP in the reproductive endocrine system. Structural damage common to both the gonads was vacuolization. Elongation of seminiferous tubules in testes and atretic follicles in ovary was also observed.
Blends of shellac as nanofiber formulations for wound healing
Authors: Vannuruswamy Garikapati , Rathna Gundloori Venkata Naga , Gadgil Bhagyashri Shashikant Thorat , Gadad Anand Panchakshari
Published: June 2015

Shellac is being used in food, pharmaceutical, and agricultural industries. It is seldom used for biomedical applications due to its poor mechanical property and instability. We designed thermoresponsive shellac-based bioactive nanofiber mats that mimic extracellular matrix to extend their utility in wound healing. Various blend compositions of shellac, gelatin, and poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) enriched with a bioactive agent, nadifloxacin, were prepared and nanofiber mats were fabricated. The morphology of the nanofiber formation was influenced by the concentration of polymer, drug, and polymer blend composition. Polymer–drug interactions and thermal and crystalline properties of nanofiber mats were analyzed. The shellac/gelatin/poly(N−isopropylacrylamide) blend of composition 3%/7%/3% (w/v) was chosen to evaluate in vitro drug release. Release studies recorded slow, constant, and sustained release for 140 h. The release kinetics and mechanism confirmed zero-order release with resultant r2 values greater than 0.99, and the Korsmeyer–Peppas release exponent ( n) was slightly higher than 0.8, which indicated that drug diffusion was anomalous or non-Fickian type and drug release followed diffusion involving chain stretching. Indirect cytotoxicity studies recorded insignificant toxicity against normal human fibroblast cells. In vivo studies demonstrated that drug-loaded nanofiber mats were more suitable for faster tissue regeneration as compared to nanofiber mats without drug and commercial nadifloxacin cream.
Effect of cyclodextrins on the structure and functions of blood components in vitro
Authors: Fu Yeyun , Wang Xiaoyan , Zhang Yu , Liu Zonghua , Xue Wei
Published: June 2015

Cyclodextrins have been extensively used in various biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. In these applications, cyclodextrins administered in vivo would inevitably enter blood stream. However, there is not enough information on the hemocompatibility of cyclodextrins until now. In this study, we investigated the influences of cyclodextrins (α-cyclodextrin, β-cyclodextrin, and γ-cyclodextrin) on human blood components and functions in vitro, that is, morphology and lysis of red blood cells, structure and conformation of fibrinogen, complement activation, and blood coagulation. It was found that 10 mg/mL of α- or β-cyclodextrins caused abnormal red blood cell morphology and serious hemolysis, while γ-cyclodextrin at 10 mg/mL did not impair red blood cell membrane morphology and integrity. The three cyclodextrins at up to 10 mg/mL affected the local microstructure but did not change the conformation of fibrinogen. The three cyclodextrins from 0.01 to 1 mg/mL all significantly activated the complement system in a concentration-dependent way. The three cyclodextrins at up to 5 mg/mL in blood plasma did not cause significantly different coagulation times compared with the negative control. In addition, the three cyclodextrins at up to 5 mg/mL in whole blood did not cause abnormal coagulation parameters. These results provide significant information on blood safety of the three cyclodextrins for their biomedical and pharmaceutical applications.
Preparation and characterization of silk fibroin/poly(l-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) nanofibrous membranes for tissue engineering applications
Authors: Yao Yuan , Liu Haifeng , Ding Xili , Jing Xiaohui , Gong Xianghui , Zhou Gang , Fan Yubo
Published: June 2015

In recent years, silk fibroin has become one of the most promising tissue engineering materials because of its excellent cytocompatibility. Poly(l-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone), the copolymer of poly(l-lactide) and poly(ε-caprolactone), possesses good mechanical properties, and its degradation rates can be manipulated by varying the ratio of the constituent polymers. In this study, in order to combine their respective characteristics, silk fibroin/poly(l-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) nanofibrous membranes were fabricated through electrospinning with different mass ratios of 100:0, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75, and 0:100. The surface properties, thermodynamic properties, mechanical properties, and cytocompatibility of silk fibroin/poly(l-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) blended membranes were evaluated, and an optimal blending ratio was identified. The results showed that the silk fibroin/poly(l-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) blended membranes containing 75% of silk fibroin and 25% of poly(l-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) achieved the most improved performances compared with the single-component membranes or the blended membranes with other mixing ratios. The results from this study indicated that 75/25 silk fibroin/poly(l-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) blended membranes which combined the advantages of poly(l-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) and silk fibroin might be a suitable candidate material for use in tissue engineering.
Spousal Assaulters in Outpatient Mental Health Care: The Relevance of Structured Risk Assessment
Authors: Serie Colinda M. B. , van Tilburg Carola A. , van Dam Arno , de Ruiter Corine
Published: June 2015

This study examined whether a typology of perpetrators of intimate partner violence (IPV) could be replicated in a Dutch sample ( N = 154) of self-referred IPV perpetrators using a structured risk assessment tool for relational violence (Brief Spousal Assault Form for the Evaluation of Risk [B-SAFER]). Our findings support the previous IPV perpetrator subtypes: low-level antisocial (LLA), family only (FO), psychopathology (PP), and generally violent/antisocial (GVA). The subtypes differed on the descriptive dimensions general criminality, substance use, and mental health problems. The prevalence rates for each subtype were roughly comparable with those in previous studies. Contrary to expectation, the prevalence of the GVA subtype was relatively high in our self-referred sample compared with court-referred samples. Our findings suggest that structured risk assessment should be an integral part of the intake procedure for IPV perpetrators entering treatment, to assess their level of risk and to arrive at a tailored risk management strategy, regardless of setting or referral source.
Domestic Violence Protective Orders: A Qualitative Examination of Judges’ Decision-Making Processes
Authors: Agnew-Brune Christine , (Beth) Moracco Kathryn E. , Person Cara J. , Bowling J. Michael
Published: June 2015

Approximately one in three women in the United States experience intimate partner violence (IPV). IPV is associated with long-term negative health consequences; therefore, there is a need to examine potential prevention strategies. Evidence suggests that domestic violence protective orders (DVPOs), a legal intervention that prevents contact between two parties for up to 12 months, are an effective secondary prevention tool. However, because judges have relative autonomy in granting or denying DVPOs, research is needed to examine the processes they use to guide their decisions. The aim of the study was to investigate how District Court judges decide whether to issue a DVPO. Using in-depth interviews with 20 North Carolina District Court judges, the present study addressed three research questions: (a) what factors influence judges’ decisions to grant or deny a DVPO, (b) what heuristics or cognitive shortcuts potentially guide their decisions, and (c) what judges worry about when making decisions. Three themes emerged from the data analyses: (a) violent incidents must reach a certain threshold, (b) the presence of children creates competing concerns, and (c) judges worry about the negative impact their decisions may have on the lives of those involved. Recommendations for improving the DVPO issuance process are also discussed.
Solitary pulmonary amyloidoma mimicking lung cancer on 18F-FDG PET-CT scan in systemic lupus erythematosus patient
Authors: Barešić M , Sreter K B , Brčić L , Hećimović A , Janevski Z , Anić B
Published: June 2015

Localized amyloid deposits (tumoral amyloidosis or amyloidoma) are uncommon form of amyloidosis and nodular pulmonary amyloidomas are rarely found. This incidental finding can mimic a bronchopulmonary neoplasm and may occur secondarily to an infectious, inflammatory or lymphoproliferative disease. We report a case of a 62-year-old female with long-standing systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with low compliance who presented with radiologically-verified solitary pulmonary nodule. Work-up included positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET-CT) scan, which revealed hypermetabolic uptake of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose, and lobectomy was performed. Staining of the tissue was positive for Congo red and was green birefringent under polarized light. Immunohistochemical methods excluded lymphoproliferative disease and confirmed amyloidoma. SLE was controlled with antimalarials and glucocorticoids. Pulmonary amyloidoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of solitary lung nodules.
Strategies for Data Collection in Social Skills Group Interventions
Authors: Goforth Anisa N. , Rennie Brandon J. , Hammond Julia , Schoffer Closson Jennifer K.
Published: June 2015

For many practitioners in schools and clinics, collecting data to show the effectiveness of an intervention is probably one of the most important yet challenging components of intervention implementation. This article provides practitioners with an example case study of how data can be organized and collected to determine the effectiveness of a social skills group intervention. Techniques to establish individual and group goals, determine a method to collect data, collect baseline data, and monitor progress are described. Challenges and practical strategies are discussed, and useful and specific suggestions are provided.
Pericyte Antigens in Perivascular Soft Tissue Tumors
Authors: Shen Jia , Shrestha Swati , Yen Yu-Hsin , Asatrian Greg , Mravic Marco , Soo Chia , Ting Kang , Dry Sarah M. , Peault Bruno , James Aaron W.
Published: June 2015

Introduction. Perivascular soft tissue tumors are relatively uncommon neoplasms of unclear line of differentiation, although most are presumed to originate from pericytes or modified perivascular cells. Among these, glomus tumor, myopericytoma, and angioleiomyoma share a spectrum of histologic findings and a perivascular growth pattern. In contrast, solitary fibrous tumor (previously termed hemangiopericytoma) was once hypothesized to have pericytic differentiation. Methods. Here, we systematically examine pericyte immunohistochemical markers among glomus tumor (including malignant glomus tumor), myopericytoma, angioleiomyoma, and solitary fibrous tumor. Immunohistochemical staining and semiquantification was performed using well-defined pericyte antigens, including αSMA, CD146, and PDGFRβ. Results. Glomus tumor and myopericytoma demonstrate diffuse staining for all pericyte markers, including immunohistochemical reactivity for αSMA, CD146, and PDGFRβ. Malignant glomus tumors all showed some degree of pericyte marker immunoreactivity, although it was significantly reduced. Angioleiomyoma shared a similar αSMA + CD146 + PDGFRβ+ immunophenotype; however, this was predominantly seen in the areas of perivascular tumor growth. Solitary fibrous tumors showed patchy PDGFRβ immunoreactivity only. Discussion. In summary, pericyte marker expression is a ubiquitous finding in glomus tumor, myopericytoma, and angioleiomyoma. Malignant glomus tumor shows a comparative reduction in pericyte marker expression, which may represent partial loss of pericytic differentiation. Pericyte markers are essentially not seen in solitary fibrous tumor. The combination of αSMA, CD146, and PDGFRβ immunohistochemical stainings may be of utility for the evaluation of pericytic differentiation in soft tissue tumors.