bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CDK4 Amplification Reduces Sensitivity to CDK4/6 Inhibition in Fusion-Positive Rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Olanich Mary E. , Sun Wenyue , Hewitt Stephen M. , Abdullaev Zied , Pack Svetlana D. , Barr Frederic G.
Published: March 2015

Purpose: Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common pediatric soft tissue sarcoma and includes a PAX3– or PAX7–FOXO1 fusion-positive subtype. Amplification of chromosomal region 12q13–q14, which contains the CDK4 proto-oncogene, was identified in an aggressive subset of fusion-positive RMS. CDK4/6 inhibitors have antiproliferative activity in CDK4-amplified liposarcoma and neuroblastoma, suggesting CDK4/6 inhibition as a potential therapeutic strategy in fusion-positive RMS.

Experimental Design: We examined the biologic consequences of CDK4 knockdown, CDK4 overexpression, and pharmacologic CDK4/6 inhibition by LEE011 in fusion-positive RMS cell lines and xenografts.

Results: Knockdown of CDK4 abrogated proliferation and transformation of 12q13–14-amplified and nonamplified fusion-positive RMS cells via G1-phase cell-cycle arrest. This arrest was mediated by reduced RB phosphorylation and E2F-responsive gene expression. Significant differences in E2F target expression, cell-cycle distribution, proliferation, or transformation were not observed in RMS cells overexpressing CDK4. Treatment with LEE011 phenocopied CDK4 knockdown, decreasing viability, RB phosphorylation, and E2F-responsive gene expression and inducing G1-phase cell-cycle arrest. Although all fusion-positive cell lines showed sensitivity to CDK4/6 inhibition, there was diminished sensitivity associated with CDK4 amplification and overexpression. This variable responsiveness to LEE011 was recapitulated in xenograft models of CDK4-amplified and nonamplified fusion-positive RMS.

Conclusions: Our data demonstrate that CDK4 is necessary but overexpression is not sufficient for RB–E2F–mediated G1-phase cell-cycle progression, proliferation, and transformation in fusion-positive RMS. Our studies indicate that LEE011 is active in the setting of fusion-positive RMS and suggest that low CDK4-expressing fusion-positive tumors may be particularly susceptible to CDK4/6 inhibition. Clin Cancer Res; 21(21); 4947–59. ©2015 AACR.

See related commentary by Gatz and Shipley, p. 4750
Targeting Survivin Inhibits Renal Cell Carcinoma Progression and Enhances the Activity of Temsirolimus
Authors: Carew Jennifer S. , Espitia Claudia M. , Zhao Weiguo , Mita Monica M. , Mita Alain C. , Nawrocki Steffan T.
Published: March 2015

Elevated expression of the antiapoptotic factor survivin has been implicated in cancer cell survival and disease progression. However, its specific contribution to renal cell carcinoma (RCC) pathogenesis is not well defined. We investigated the roles of survivin in RCC tumor progression, resistance to mTOR inhibitors, and evaluated the therapeutic activity of the survivin suppressant YM155 in RCC models. Here, we report that survivin expression levels were significantly higher in RCC cell lines compared with normal renal cells. Stable targeted knockdown of survivin completely abrogated the ability of 786-O RCC tumors to grow in mice, thus demonstrating its importance as a regulator of RCC tumorigenesis. We next explored multiple strategies to therapeutically inhibit survivin function in RCC. Treatment with the mTOR inhibitor temsirolimus partially diminished survivin levels and this effect was augmented by the addition of YM155. Further analyses revealed that, in accordance with their combined anti-survivin effects, YM155 significantly improved the anticancer activity of temsirolimus in a panel of RCC cell lines in vitro and in xenograft models in vivo. Similar to pharmacologic inhibition of survivin, shRNA-mediated silencing of survivin expression not only inhibited RCC tumor growth, but also significantly sensitized RCC cells to temsirolimus therapy. Subsequent experiments demonstrated that the effectiveness of this dual survivin/mTOR inhibition strategy was mediated by a potent decrease in survivin levels and corresponding induction of apoptosis. Our findings establish survivin inhibition as a novel approach to improve RCC therapy that warrants further investigation. Mol Cancer Ther; 14(6); 1404–13. ©2015 AACR.
Growth Hormone Treatment Improves Cognitive Function in Short Children with Growth Hormone Deficiency
Authors: Chaplin John Eric , Kriström Berit , Jonsson Björn , Tuvemo Torsten , Albertsson-Wikland Kerstin
Published: March 2015

Background/Aims: We investigated the association between cognition and growth hormone (GH) status and GH treatment in short prepubertal children with broadly ranging GH secretion. Methods: A total of 99 children (age 3-11 years), 41 with GH deficiency (GHD) and 58 with idiopathic short stature (ISS), were randomized to a fixed dose (43 µg/kg/day) or a prediction model-guided individualized dose (17-100 µg/kg/day) and followed up for 24 months. In a longitudinal and mixed within- and between-subjects study, we examined clinical effect size changes, measured by Cohen's d, in full-scale IQ (FSIQ) and secondary IQ indices. Results: Significant increases giving medium effect size in FSIQ (p = 0.001, Cohen's d = 0.63), performance IQ (p = 0.001, Cohen's d = 0.65) and processing speed (p = 0.005, Cohen's d = 0.71) were found in the GH-deficient group. In contrast, perceptual organization only increased in the ISS group (p = 0.001, Cohen's d = 0.53). Baseline IQ was normally distributed with small but significant differences between the groups: GH-deficient children had lower FSIQ (p = 0.042) and lower performance IQ (p = 0.021). Using multiple regression analysis, 40% of the variance in delta processing speed scores (0-24 months) was explained by GHmax and IGF-ISDS at baseline. Conclusion: IQ, specifically fluid intelligence, increased in the GH-deficient children. The pretreatment status of the GH/IGF-I axis was significantly predictive for these changes.
Liquid-Based Cytology Preparation Can Improve Cytological Assessment of Endobronchial Ultrasound-Guided Transbronchial Needle Aspiration
Authors: Qiu Ting , Zhu Hui , Cai Min , Han Qingbin , Shi Jingyu , Wang Ke
Published: March 2015

Objective: This study investigated whether liquid-based cytology (LBC) can improve diagnostic values of cytological assessment of endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA). Study Design: A cohort of 600 cases in West China Hospital was prospectively studied from June 2012 to September 2013. EBUS-TBNA was carried out in outpatients under local anesthesia and moderate sedation. The procedure was performed with an echobronchoscope (BF-UC160F-OL8, Olympus, Tokyo, Japan). Histological cores were stained with hematoxylin and eosin for further study. Additional immunohistological analysis was performed for establishing a reliable diagnosis when necessary. Aspirates were smeared on glass slides and separate aspirates were processed by the monolayer SurePath method. Results: In total, 480 malignant tumors and 120 benign lesions were confirmed by histological examination. The sensitivity of SurePath liquid-based preparations and conventional smears was 82.1 and 56%, and the specificity was 87.5 and 82.5%, respectively. The combined specificity was 100%. Positive predictive values of the two groups were 96.3 and 92.8%, whereas negative predictive values were 54.9 and 31.9%, respectively. The difference between the two groups was significant (p < 0.001). Conclusions: LBC preparation can improve cytological assessment of EBUS-TBNA. Histological study is necessary in cases in which the cytological diagnosis is obscure.
Update on the Autoimmune Pathology of Multiple Sclerosis: B-Cells as Disease-Drivers and Therapeutic Targets
Authors: von Büdingen H.-Christian , Palanichamy Arumugam , Lehmann-Horn Klaus , Michel Brady A. , Zamvil Scott S.
Published: March 2015

Background: Collectively, research on the role of B-cells in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS) illustrates how translational medicine has given rise to promising therapeutic approaches for one of the most debilitating chronic neurological diseases in young adults. First described in 1935, the experimental autoimmune/allergic encephalomyelitis model is a key animal model that has provided the foundation for important developments in targeted therapeutics. Summary: While additional B-cell therapies for MS are presently being developed by the pharmaceutical industry, much remains to be understood about the role played by B-cells in MS. The goal of this review is to summarize how B-cells may contribute to MS pathogenesis and thereby provide a basis for understanding why B-cell depletion is so effective in the treatment of this disease. Key Messages: B-cells are key players in the pathogenesis of MS, and their depletion via B-cell-targeted therapy ameliorates disease activity. Clinical Implications: In 2008, data from the first CD20-targeting B-cell depleting therapeutic trials using rituximab in MS were published. Since then, there has been a large body of evidence demonstrating the effectiveness of B-cell depletion mediated via anti-CD20 antibodies. Intense research efforts focusing on the immunopathological relevance of B-cells has gained significant momentum and given rise to a constellation of promising therapeutic agents for this complex B-cell-driven disease, including novel anti-CD20 antibodies, as well as agents targeting CD19 and BAFF-R.
Down-Regulation of Renal Gluconeogenesis in Type II Diabetic Rats Following Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery: A Potential Mechanism in Hypoglycemic Effect
Authors: Wen Yi , Lin Ning , Yan Hong-Tao , Luo Hao , Chen Guang-Yu , Cui Jian-Feng , Shi Li , Chen Tao , Wang Tao , Tang Li-Jun
Published: March 2015

Objective: This study was initiated to evaluate the effects of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery on renal gluconeogenesis in type 2 diabetic rats and its relationship with hormonal parameters. Methods: Diabetic rats were induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ; 35 mg/kg) combined with a high-fat diet. They were then randomly divided into three groups: diabetes model group (DM group, n = 8), sham Roux-en-Y gastric bypass group (SRYGB group, n = 8), and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass group (RYGB group, n = 14). Another 8 normal rats comprised the normal control group (NC group, n = 8). Body weight, glucose, serum lipid, insulin, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), leptin, and adiponectin were measured pre- and postoperatively. Glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase), phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK), insulin receptor-α (IR-α), insulin receptor-β (IR-β), and glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (Gsk3b) were measured in renal cortex by using RT-PCR and Western immune-blot analyses on the 4th week after operation. Results: Following RYGB surgery, surgery-treated rats showed significantly improved oral glucose tolerance, dyslipidemia and insulin resistance as well as increased post-gavage insulin levels and serum circulating levels of GLP-1 and adiponectin. RT-PCR and Western immune-blot analyses showed PEPCK and G6Pase protein and mRNA to be significantly decreased in the renal cortex in the RYGB group (p < 0.05 vs. DM or SRYGB group); in addition, IR-α and Gsk3b phosphorylation levels increased in the RYGB group (p < 0.05 vs. DM or SRYGB group). Conclusion: Down-regulation of renal gluconeogenic enzymes might be a potential mechanism in hypoglycemia. An improved insulin signal pathway in the renal cortex and increased circulating adiponectin concentrations may contribute to the decline of renal gluconeogenesis following RYGB surgery.
Efficacy and spatial distribution of ultrasound-mediated clot lysis in the absence of thrombolytics
Authors: Lindner Jonathan R. , Zhao Yan , Porter Thomas , Siegel Robert , Kaul Sanjiv , Ammi Azzdine Y.
Published: March 2015

Ultrasound and microbubble (MB) contrast agents accelerate clot lysis, yet clinical trials have been performed without defining optimal acoustic conditions. Our aim was to assess the effect of acoustic pressure and frequency on the extent and spatial location of clot lysis. Clots from porcine blood were created with a 2-mm central lumen for infusion of lipid-shelled perfluorocarbon MBs (1×107 ml-1) or saline. Therapeutic ultrasound at 0.04, 0.25, 1.05, or 2.00 MHz was delivered at a wide range of peak rarefactional acoustic pressure amplitudes (PRAPAs). Ultrasound was administered over 20 minutes grouped on-off cycles to allow replenishment of MBs. The region of lysis was quantified using contrast-enhanced ultrasound imaging. In the absence of MBs, sonothrombolysis did not occur at any frequency. Sonothrombolysis was also absent in the presence of MBs despite their destruction at 0.04 and 2.00 MHz. It occurred at 0.25 and 1.05 MHz in the presence of MBs for PRAPAs > 1.2 MPa and increased with PRAPA. At 0.25 MHz the clot lysis was located in the far wall. At 1.05 MHz, however, there was a transition from far to near wall as PRAPA was increased. The area of clot lysis measured by ultrasound imaging correlated with that by micro-CT and quantification of debris in the effluent. In conclusion, sonothrombolysis with MBs was most efficient at 0.25 MHz. The spatial location of sonothrombolysis varies with pressure and frequency indicating that the geometric relation between therapeutic probe and vascular thrombosis is an important variable for successful lysis clinically.

Supported by grant (NIH R01-HL-095868).
NR4A receptors up-regulate the antiproteinase alpha-2 macroglobulin (A2M) and modulate MMP-2 and MMP-9 in vascular smooth muscle cells
Authors: Rodríguez-Calvo Ricardo , Ferrán Beatriz , Alonso Judith , Martí-Pàmies Ingrid , Aguiló Silvia , Calvayrac Olivier , Rodríguez Cristina , Martínez-González José
Published: March 2015

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are associated with tissue remodelling and repair. In non-vascular tissues, NR4A receptors have been involved in the regulation of MMPs by transcriptional repression mechanisms. Here, we analyse alternative mechanisms involving NR4A receptors in the modulation of MMP activity in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). Lentiviral overexpression of NR4A receptors (NOR-1, Nurr1 and Nur77) in human VSMC strongly decreased MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities (analysed by zymography and DQ-gelatin assays) and protein levels. NR4A receptors also down-regulated MMP-2 mRNA levels. Real-time PCR analysis evidenced that alpha-2-macroglobulin (A2M), but not other MMP inhibitors (TIMP-1 and TIMP-2) were up-regulated in NR4A-transduced cells. Interestingly, A2M was expressed in human vascular tissues including the smooth muscle media layer. While NR4A receptors increased A2M expression and secretion in VSMC, NR4A knockdown significantly reduced basal A2M expression in these cells. The direct transcriptional regulation of the human A2M promoter by NR4A receptors was characterised in luciferase reporter assays, electrophoretic mobility shift assays and by chromatin immunoprecipitation, identifying a NGFI-B response element (NBRE-71/-64) essential for the NR4A-mediated induction. The blockade of A2M partially prevented the reduction of MMPs activity observed in NR4A-transduced cells. Although mouse A2M promoter was unresponsive to NR4A receptors, vascular MMP expression was attenuated in transgenic mice over-expressing human NOR-1 in VSMC challenged with lipopolysaccharide. Our results show that the panproteinase inhibitor A2M is expressed in the vasculature and that NR4A receptors modulate VSMC MMP activity by several mechanisms including the up-regulation of A2M.
Blood coagulation and fibrinolysis in aortic valve stenosis: links with inflammation and calcification
Authors: Natorska Joanna , Undas Anetta
Published: March 2015

Aortic valve stenosis (AS) increasingly afflicts our aging population. However, the pathobiology of the disease is still poorly understood and there is no effective pharmacotherapy for treating those at risk for clinical progression. The progression of AS involves complex inflammatory and fibroproliferative processes that resemble to some extent atherosclerosis. Accumulating evidence indicates that several coagulation proteins and its inhibitors, including tissue factor, tissue factor pathway inhibitor, prothrombin, factor XIII, von Willebrand factor, display increased expression within aortic stenotic valves, predominantly on macrophages and myofibroblasts around calcified areas. Systemic impaired fibrinolysis, along with increased plasma and valvular expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, has also been observed in patients with AS in association with the severity of the disease. There is an extensive cross-talk between inflammation and coagulation in stenotic valve tissue which contributes to the calcification and mineralisation of the aortic valve leaflets. This review summarises the available data on blood coagulation and fibrinolysis in AS with the emphasis on their interactions with inflammation and calcification.
Cardiac Electrophysiological Substrate Underlying the ECG Phenotype and Electrogram Abnormalities in Brugada Syndrome Patients
Authors: Zhang Junjie , Sacher Frédéric , Hoffmayer Kurt , O’Hara Thomas , Strom Maria , Cuculich Phillip , Silva Jennifer , Cooper Daniel , Faddis Mitchell , Hocini Mélèze , Haïssaguerre Michel , Scheinman Melvin , Rudy Yoram
Published: March 2015

Background—

Brugada syndrome (BrS) is a highly arrhythmogenic cardiac disorder, associated with an increased incidence of sudden death. Its arrhythmogenic substrate in the intact human heart remains ill-defined.

Methods and Results—

Using noninvasive ECG imaging, we studied 25 BrS patients to characterize the electrophysiological substrate and 6 patients with right bundle-branch block for comparison. Seven healthy subjects provided control data. Abnormal substrate was observed exclusively in the right ventricular outflow tract with the following properties (in comparison with healthy controls;
P
<0.005): (1) ST-segment elevation and inverted T wave of unipolar electrograms (2.21±0.67 versus 0 mV); (2) delayed right ventricular outflow tract activation (82±18 versus 37±11 ms); (3) low-amplitude (0.47±0.16 versus 3.74±1.60 mV) and fractionated electrograms, suggesting slow discontinuous conduction; (4) prolonged recovery time (381±30 versus 311±34 ms) and activation-recovery intervals (318±32 versus 241±27 ms), indicating delayed repolarization; (5) steep repolarization gradients (Δrecovery time/Δx=96±28 versus 7±6 ms/cm, Δactivation-recovery interval/Δx=105±24 versus 7±5 ms/cm) at right ventricular outflow tract borders. With increased heart rate in 6 BrS patients, reduced ST-segment elevation and increased fractionation were observed. Unlike BrS, right bundle-branch block had delayed activation in the entire right ventricle, without ST-segment elevation, fractionation, or repolarization abnormalities on electrograms.

Conclusions—

The results indicate that both slow discontinuous conduction and steep dispersion of repolarization are present in the right ventricular outflow tract of BrS patients. ECG imaging could differentiate between BrS and right bundle-branch block.
Risk of Stroke in Chronic Heart Failure Patients Without Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Abdul-Rahim Azmil H. , Perez Ana-Cristina , Fulton Rachael L. , Jhund Pardeep S. , Latini Roberto , Tognoni Gianni , Wikstrand John , Kjekshus John , Lip Gregory Y.H. , Maggioni Aldo P. , Tavazzi Luigi , Lees Kennedy R. , McMurray John J.V.
Published: March 2015

Background—

Our aim was to describe the incidence and predictors of stroke in patients who have heart failure without atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods and Results—

We pooled 2 contemporary heart failure trials, the Controlled Rosuvastatin in Multinational Trial Heart Failure (CORONA) and the Gruppo Italiano per lo Studio della Sopravvivenza nell’Insufficienza cardiaca-Heart Failure trial (GISSI-HF). Of the 9585 total patients, 6054 did not have AF. Stroke occurred in 165 patients (4.7%) with AF and in 206 patients (3.4%) without AF (rates 16.8/1000 patient-years and 11.1/1000 patient-years, respectively). Using Cox proportional-hazards models, we identified the following independent predictors of stroke in patients without AF (ranked by χ
2
value): age (hazard ratio, 1.34; 95% confidence interval, 1.18–1.63 per 10 years), New York Heart Association class (1.60, 1.21–2.12 class III/IV versus II), diabetes mellitus treated with insulin (1.87, 1.22–2.88), body mass index (0.74, 0.60–0.91 per 5 kg/m
2
up to 30), and previous stroke (1.81, 1.19–2.74). N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (available in 2632 patients) was also an independent predictor of stroke (hazard ratio, 1.31; 1.11–1.57 per log unit) when added to this model. With the use of a risk score formulated from these predictors, we found that patients in the upper third of risk had a rate of stroke that approximated the risk in patients with AF.

Conclusions—

A small number of demographic and clinical variables identified a subset of patients who have heart failure without AF at a high risk of stroke.
The Contribution of Attentional Lapses to Individual Differences in Visual Working Memory Capacity
Authors: Adam Kirsten C. S. , Mance Irida , Fukuda Keisuke , Vogel Edward K.
Published: March 2015

Attentional control and working memory capacity are important cognitive abilities that substantially vary between individuals. Although much is known about how attentional control and working memory capacity relate to each other and to constructs like fluid intelligence, little is known about how trial-by-trial fluctuations in attentional engagement impact trial-by-trial working memory performance. Here, we employ a novel whole-report memory task that allowed us to distinguish between varying levels of attentional engagement in humans performing a working memory task. By characterizing low-performance trials, we can distinguish between models in which working memory performance failures are caused by either (1) complete lapses of attention or (2) variations in attentional control. We found that performance failures increase with set-size and strongly predict working memory capacity. Performance variability was best modeled by an attentional control model of attention, not a lapse model. We examined neural signatures of performance failures by measuring EEG activity while participants performed the whole-report task. The number of items correctly recalled in the memory task was predicted by frontal theta power, with decreased frontal theta power associated with poor performance on the task. In addition, we found that poor performance was not explained by failures of sensory encoding; the P1/N1 response and ocular artifact rates were equivalent for high- and low-performance trials. In all, we propose that attentional lapses alone cannot explain individual differences in working memory performance. Instead, we find that graded fluctuations in attentional control better explain the trial-by-trial differences in working memory that we observe.
A Cross-Cultural Comparison of American and Japanese Experiences of Personal and Vicarious Shame
Authors: Yamawaki Niwako , Spackman Matthew P. , Parrott W. Gerrod
Published: March 2015

The purpose of this study was to examine cultural influences on shame. In particular, the focus was to assess the influence of the following factors on the object of shame (specifically, personal vs. vicarious shame): (1) the effect of individualism/collectivism, measured by a widely used standardized measurement; (2) the role of tightness/looseness (based on ecological factors); and (3) the patterns of within- and between-cultural differences and similarities. Data were collected from two American and two Japanese universities to test within- and between-cultural influences on the object of shame. Participants were asked to describe and rate three autobiographical experiences of shame, with each successive request being increasingly specific in asking for shame about something for which the participant did not feel responsible. Cultural differences in tightness and looseness, both within and between the two nations, were predictive of the likelihood that participants would report vicarious shame. In contrast, standard measures of individualism-collectivism did not predict these differences. These findings suggest that culture affects the object of shame. However, in contrast to our hypothesis, attitudinal measures of individualism/collectivism were not a significant predictor. Rather, tightness/looseness determined by ecological factors was the better predictor of some cultural differences on the object of shame. Furthermore, these findings imply that attitudinal measures of individualism/collectivism may not agree with ecological measures, and that including multiple samples from each language/nation effectively reduces the confound between culture and language.
Environmental Law in Investment Arbitration: Procedural Means of Incorporation
Authors: Asteriti Alessandra
Published: March 2015

The present article explores the relationship between investment and environmental law by examining the use of counterclaims and jurisdictional and applicable law clauses in IIAs. Environmental issues arising contextually to investment disputes have given rise to sustained debates on the legitimacy deficit of the system; one possible way forward for the debates is through the incorporation of environmental law in the investment regime, and many substantive avenues have been explored, including the reconceptualisation of certain provisions, the adoption of proportionality and balancing by tribunals, and the adjustment of the quantum of compensation. This article focuses on the procedural means of incorporation as the first, inevitable step towards any of the above solutions. Additionally, the article deals in detail with the possibility of asserting counterclaims as a little explored avenue potentially allowing for international and domestic environmental obligations to enter the investment dispute.
A new species of Dysphania (Chenopodioideae, Chenopodiaceae) from South-West Tibet and East Himalaya
Authors: Sukhorukov Alexander P. , Zhang Mingli , Kushunina Maria
Published: March 2015

Dysphania geoffreyi is described as a new species, with records in China (Xizang and Yunnan provinces) and Bhutan. It differs from morphologically similar taxa by virtue of the clustered flowers in the inflorescence, indumentum set on the perianth, terminally concave pericarp papillae, and smaller seeds 0.5–0.6 mm in diameter. In total eight native Dysphania species are identified in Himalaya and Tibet, and revised distribution patterns of D. bhutanica, D. himalaica and D. tibetica are presented. The most significant reproductive features of all native Dysphania taxa are summarized.
Disa staerkeriana (Orchidaceae): a new species from Mpumalanga, South Africa
Authors: McMurtry Douglas , Bytebier Benny
Published: March 2015

A new orchid species, Disa staerkeriana is described from the Hartebeesvlakte in the Mpumalanga Province of South Africa. It is a member of Disa section Stenocarpa and is affiliated to D. amoena and D. montana. An updated artificial key to Disa section Stenocarpa is provided.
Taxonomic revision of the genus Massularia (Rubiaceae, Gardenieae), with a new species from Central Africa
Authors: Sonké Bonaventure , Bidault Ehoarn , Droissart Vincent
Published: March 2015

Based on a careful examination of more than 700 herbarium specimens and field investigation, a comprehensive revision of the genus Massularia is given. Massularia stevartiana, a new species from Central African Republic, Cameroon and Gabon is described and illustrated. The novelty is distinguished from M. acuminata, the only other species previously recognized in the genus, by its smaller leaves and flowers. For the two species recognized we provide a morphological description, distribution, habitat, phenology and IUCN conservation status assessment. Distribution maps and a dichotomous key are also provided.Based on a careful examination of more than 700 herbarium specimens and field investigation, a comprehensive revision of the genus Massularia is given. Massularia stevartiana, a new Rubiaceae species from Central African Republic, Cameroon and Gabon is described and illustrated. The novelty is distinguished from M. acuminata, the only other species recognized within the genus, by its smaller leaves and flowers. Another typical character for M. stevartiana is its leaves always cunate. For the two recognized taxa we provide a morphological description, distribution, habitat, phenology and IUCN conservation status assessment. Distribution maps and a taxonomic key are also provided.
Complete morphological re-description of mud-dwelling axiid Leonardsaxius amurensis (Kobjakova, 1937) with remarks on Axiidae (Crustacea: Decapoda: Axiidea) from the Russian coast of the Sea of Japan
Authors: MARIN IVAN
Published: March 2015

The first complete re-description of mud-dwelling axiid Leonardsaxius amurensis (Kobjakova, 1937) (Crustacea: Decapoda: Axiidea) is presented based on the holotype and freshly collected specimens from Vostok Bay, Russia coast of the Sea of Japan. The species is mostly morphologically similar to Leonardsaxius spinulicauda (Rathbun, 1902) known from Pacific coasts of North America from Vancouver to California but can be morphologically separated mainly by morphology of carapace and coloration of cornea of eyes. Remarks on distribution of Leonardsaxius amurensis (Kobjakova, 1937) and the second axiid species, Boasaxius princeps (Boas, 1880), known along Russian coastline of the Sea of Japan are given.
An updated review of the genus Martensopoda Jäger, 2006 (Araneae: Sparassidae: Heteropodinae)
Authors: SANKARAN PRADEEP M. , MALAMEL JOBI J. , JOSEPH MATHEW M. , SEBASTIAN POTHALIL A.
Published: March 2015

A new species of the huntsman spider genus Martensopoda Jäger, 2006, M. sanctor sp. nov., is described and illustrated from the southern Western Ghats of India. Detailed first description and illustration of the male of M. minuscula (Reimoser, 1934) with a redescription and illustration of its female are provided. The female of M. transversa Jäger, 2006 is redescribed and illustrated. An identification key and a distribution map of all three Martensopoda species are presented.
p16INK4a Status and Response to Induction Low-Dose Fractionated Radiation in Advanced Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Silver Natalie L. , Arnold Susanne M. , Gleason John F. , Kudrimoti Mahesh , Brill Yolanda , Dressler Emily V. , Valentino Joseph
Published: March 2015

Objective:

To evaluate the impact of p16INK4a (p16) expression on clinical efficacy of induction low-dose fractionated radiation therapy (LDFRT) with concurrent chemotherapy in patients with locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN).

Study Design:

Historical cohort study.

Setting:

Tertiary medical center.

Methods:

A total of 66 Patients with locally advanced SCCHN were enrolled in 2 clinical trials using paclitaxel, carboplatin, and concurrent LDFRT induction therapy. Patients were evaluated for response to induction by a multidisciplinary team and then were given definitive treatment. Adequate tissue samples from the pretreatment biopsies of 42 individuals were identified and analyzed for p16 expression. Expression was correlated with clinical outcomes.

Results:

Of 42 tumors, 15 (35.7%) were positive for p16. Patients with p16-positive tumors had improved response to induction, but this was not statistically significant ( P = .06). Five-year overall survival was 80% in p16-positive patients and 58% in p16-negative patients ( P = .025).

Conclusions:

p16 Expression affects treatment response in patients treated with induction LDFRT with concurrent chemotherapy. This is similar to results reported for standard induction chemotherapy.
On Statistical Wizardry, Construct Proliferation, and Other Challenges for Our Science
Authors: Brown Steven D.
Published: March 2015

Research in counseling psychology (and most social sciences) has come to rely on powerful data analytic strategies and computer software that allow researchers to test complex multivariate models quickly and easily. New constructs also appear in our literature with regularity. Although complex models and new constructs have benefits for advancing knowledge and application, they also have drawbacks. The purpose of this article is to caution readers to (a) choose designs and data analytic strategies that are minimally sufficient to address their research questions, and (b) ensure that new constructs are empirically as well as conceptually distinguishable from extant constructs.
Best Design for Multidimensional Computerized Adaptive Testing With the Bifactor Model
Authors: Seo Dong Gi , Weiss David J.
Published: March 2015

Most computerized adaptive tests (CATs) have been studied using the framework of unidimensional item response theory. However, many psychological variables are multidimensional and might benefit from using a multidimensional approach to CATs. This study investigated the accuracy, fidelity, and efficiency of a fully multidimensional CAT algorithm (MCAT) with a bifactor model using simulated data. Four item selection methods in MCAT were examined for three bifactor pattern designs using two multidimensional item response theory models. To compare MCAT item selection and estimation methods, a fixed test length was used. The Ds-optimality item selection improved θ estimates with respect to a general factor, and either D- or A-optimality improved estimates of the group factors in three bifactor pattern designs under two multidimensional item response theory models. The MCAT model without a guessing parameter functioned better than the MCAT model with a guessing parameter. The MAP (maximum a posteriori) estimation method provided more accurate θ estimates than the EAP (expected a posteriori) method under most conditions, and MAP showed lower observed standard errors than EAP under most conditions, except for a general factor condition using Ds-optimality item selection.
The Mediated MIMIC Model for Understanding the Underlying Mechanism of DIF
Authors: Cheng Ying , Shao Can , Lathrop Quinn N.
Published: March 2015

Due to its flexibility, the multiple-indicator, multiple-causes (MIMIC) model has become an increasingly popular method for the detection of differential item functioning (DIF). In this article, we propose the mediated MIMIC model method to uncover the underlying mechanism of DIF. This method extends the usual MIMIC model by including one variable or multiple variables that may completely or partially mediate the DIF effect. If complete mediation effect is found, the DIF effect is fully accounted for. Through our simulation study, we find that the mediated MIMIC model is very successful in detecting the mediation effect that completely or partially accounts for DIF, while keeping the Type I error rate well controlled for both balanced and unbalanced sample sizes between focal and reference groups. Because it is successful in detecting such mediation effects, the mediated MIMIC model may help explain DIF and give guidance in the revision of a DIF item.
Reflexivity in practice: Tools and conditions for developing organizational authorship
Authors: Gorli Mara , Nicolini Davide , Scaratti Giuseppe
Published: March 2015

In this article, we build on the results of a participatory action research project in healthcare to discuss a number of methods that can strengthen the link between reflexive work and authoring in organizational contexts. We argue that, from an organizational point of view, the challenge is to devise new ways to configure (and consider) people as the authors of their work. This means assuming responsibility for, and constructively contributing to, the goals of the organizations to which they belong. Combining insights from theoretical reflection and experience from the field, the article discusses the tools, process and material conditions for fostering practical reflexivity and organizational authorship. We conclude that much is to be gained if we distinguish between authorship and authoring. Authorship is the general process whereby managers and organizational members contribute to the reproduction of organizational realities. Authoring is constituted by the special circumstances whereby authorship is brought to critical consciousness and becomes open to deliberate reorientation.
Fabrication and characterization of silicon carbide/epoxy nanocomposite using silicon carbide nanowhisker and nanoparticle reinforcements
Authors: Naeimirad Mohammadreza , Zadhoush Ali , Neisiany Rasoul Esmaeely
Published: March 2015

In this study, the influence of filler shape and filler content on the physical and mechanical properties of silicon carbide/epoxy nanocomposites was investigated using silicon carbide nanoparticles and nanowhiskers. Samples containing 0.5, 1, 2 and 4 wt% of β-silicon carbide nanowhiskers and nanoparticles in epoxy resin were prepared using a high-intensity ultrasonic liquid processor and casting technique. Mechanical and physical tests such as tensile, flexural, hardness, and wear along with a morphological investigation by FT-IR, scanning electron microscopy and transition electron microscopy were performed. Results of mechanical tests indicating about 20% and 40% improvement were achieved in nanoparticle (1 wt%) and nanowhisker (2 wt%) reinforced samples, respectively. Also mechanical experiment results have been evaluated with theoretical models. Tribological results show that wear and frictional properties improved about 50% and 30%, respectively, by adding silicon carbide nanoparticles (4 wt%) and nanowhiskers (4 wt%) to epoxy resin. TEM and SEM observations showed that nano-fillers are dispersed in low weight ratio but agglomerated above a critical content.
IL-33 Exacerbates Periodontal Disease through Induction of RANKL
Authors: Malcolm J. , Awang R.A. , Oliver-Bell J. , Butcher J.P. , Campbell L. , Adrados Planell A. , Lappin D.F. , Fukada S.Y. , Nile C.J. , Liew F.Y. , Culshaw S.
Published: March 2015

Cytokines mediate the balance between protective and destructive immunity in periodontitis. We sought to investigate the role of IL-33 in periodontitis. The expression of IL-33 in gingival tissue from healthy controls ( n = 10) and patients with chronic periodontitis ( n = 17) was investigated. Based on a murine model of periodontal disease, the function of IL-33 was determined first by administration of exogenous IL-33 and second by inhibition of IL-33 signaling using mice deficient in the IL-33 receptor ST2. Alveolar bone level, serum antibody, and lymphocyte responses were assessed in the murine model. Expression of IL-33 and ST2 was elevated in gingival tissues from patients with chronic periodontitis as compared with healthy tissues ( P < 0.05). Similarly, Il33 expression was higher in periodontal tissues of Porphyromonas gingivalis–infected mice as compared with sham-infected controls ( P < 0.05). IL-33 treatment of P. gingivalis–infected mice significantly exacerbated alveolar bone loss when compared with infection or IL-33 treatment alone ( P < 0.001). Conversely, P. gingivalis infection–induced alveolar bone loss was attenuated in mice lacking ST2. The percentages of T and B lymphocytes expressing nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL) in the gingival tissues and T lymphocytes expressing RANKL in the cervical draining lymph nodes were higher in IL-33-treated P. gingivalis–infected mice versus phosphate buffered saline–treated P. gingivalis–infected controls (all P < 0.001). Targeting the RANKL pathway by osteoprotegerin administration abrogated periodontal bone destruction in P. gingivalis–infected, IL-33-treated mice. These data demonstrate a previously unrecognized role for IL-33 in exacerbating bone loss in a RANKL-dependent manner in the context of bacterial infection and suggest that this pathway may be amenable to manipulation as a novel therapeutic target in periodontitis.
Effects of fabric structures on the tensile properties of warp-knitted fabrics used as concrete reinforcements
Authors: Stolyarov Oleg , Quadflieg Till , Gries Thomas
Published: March 2015

High-performance textiles are now widely used in civil engineering applications. This work explores the differences between the tensile properties of weft inlay warp-knitted fabrics of high-strength glass and carbon rovings as concrete reinforcements. In this study, 12 types of warp-knitted fabrics with different stitch patterns, including tricot, cord, and pillar stitches, were produced. The effect of the stitch type on the tensile properties of the fabrics was examined. The stitch type was found to significantly affect the tensile properties of the warp-knitted fabrics. The results showed that the tensile strength of fabrics with tricot and cord stitches is greater than that of fabrics with the pillar stitch. The increase in tensile strength was 14% for fabrics made of glass roving and 21% for fabrics made of carbon rovings. A similar gradation was observed for the Young’s modulus of the fabrics. The Young’s modulus was 11% and 25% higher for glass and carbon fabrics, respectively. The structural parameters of the warp-knitted fabrics, including the geometry of the stitch pattern and the yarn cross-sectional shape in a fabric that affect the tensile properties, were analyzed.
UV protection performance of textiles affected by fiber cross-sectional shape
Authors: Yu Yao , Hurren Christopher , Millington Keith , Sun Lu , Wang Xungai
Published: March 2015

In this study, a model was set up for simulating the effects of varying fiber cross-sectional shapes on ultraviolet protection of fibers. The fiber diameter and fiber type were also involved in the model setting. Experiments of diffuse reflectance spectra measurement on natural (wool, cotton, silk), regenerated (bamboo viscose) and synthetic (polyester, nylon) fibers were conducted to verify the model predicted results. When a more complex shape was assumed as the fiber cross-section for model calculation, the predicted results have a better agreement with the actual results. The effects on ultraviolet absorption from fibers with different cross-sectional shapes were investigated at a single fiber, fiber bundle and yarn levels. With the same material, when the fiber cross-sectional area and the areal coverage of a single fiber were constant, the triangular shape had the lowest ultraviolet transmittance and the highest ultraviolet reflectance for a single fiber and also for a fiber bundle. The difference of fiber cross-sectional shapes was also significant in the ultraviolet protection of a single yarn.
The Association of Ethnic Pride With Health and Social Outcomes Among Young Black and Latino Men After Release From Jail
Authors: Upadhyayula Satyasree , Ramaswamy Megha , Chalise Prabhakar , Daniels Jessie , Freudenberg Nicholas
Published: March 2015

The goal of this study was to understand whether ethnic pride among young, incarcerated Black and Latino men was associated with successful community reentry. We interviewed 397 Black and Latino men 16 to 18 years old in a New York City jail and then again 1 year after their release to determine the relationship between participants’ sense of ethnic pride during incarceration, and substance use, violence, recidivism, and education/employment after release from jail. Participants with higher ethnic pride scores were less likely to engage in illegal activities and be reincarcerated. Ethnic pride was also associated with feeling safe in gangs and positive attitudes toward avoiding violence in situations of conflict. Ethnic pride was not associated with substance use, education, or engagement in community-based organizations post release. This study demonstrated that ethnic pride might be a source of strength that young men of color can harness for successful community reentry after release from jail.
Family cancer caregiving in urban Africa: interrogating the Kenyan model
Authors: Githaiga Jennifer Nyawira
Published: March 2015

This article interrogates the complexities of the family cancer caregiver role in an urban (Nairobi) context within the framework of the model of palliative care in sub-Saharan Africa. Individual interviews and focus groups were utilized to explore the phenomenon of family cancer caregiving. Data were analysed from an interpretative phenomenological approach. Emergent themes demonstrate the ambiguities inherent in the cultural context of cosmopolitan Nairobi where, in addition to their traditional designated roles, women caregivers simultaneously took on non-traditional roles including single-parenting and full-time professions. Findings point to the need for a more nuanced understanding of the complexities of family cancer caregiving, a process which inevitably entails interrogating assumptions about the ‘African’ and, more specifically, the ‘Kenyan’ model of caring.
Problematizations in Alcohol Policy
Authors: Bacchi Carol
Published: March 2015

This article examines how the issue of alcohol use has been problematized using past and current World Health Organization reports and associated publications as illustrations. The 2010 Global Strategy to Reduce the Harmful Use of Alcohol serves as a salient example. Applying an approach to policy analysis called “What’s the Problem Represented to be?” this article highlights grounding presuppositions in selected alcohol policies and policy proposals. Particular attention is directed to the genesis and continually evolving and changing key concept “alcohol problems” (or “alcohol-related problems” and other variations). The objective is to raise questions about the implications of public health frameworks of meaning around alcohol policy for how governing takes place and for governed subjects. On the basis of this analysis, this article signals the importance of interrogating the meaning and role of taken-for-granted categories of analysis.
Semantic Information Influences Race Categorization From Faces
Authors: Tskhay Konstantin O. , Rule Nicholas O.
Published: March 2015

It is well established that low-level visual features affect person categorization in a bottom-up fashion. Few studies have examined top-down influences, however, and have largely focused on how information recalled from memory or from motivation influences categorization. Here, we investigated how race categorizations are affected by the context in which targets are perceived by manipulating semantic information associated with the faces being categorized. We found that presenting faces that systematically varied in racial ambiguity with race-congruent (vs. incongruent) semantic labels shifted the threshold at which perceivers distinguished between racial groups. The semantic information offered by the labels therefore appeared to influence the categorization of race. These findings suggest that semantic information creates a context for the interpretation of perceptual cues during social categorization, highlighting an active role of top-down information in race perception.
The Prosocial Versus Proself Power Holder
Authors: Righetti Francesca , Luchies Laura B. , van Gils Suzanne , Slotter Erica B. , Witcher Betty , Kumashiro Madoka
Published: March 2015

Romantic partners often have to sacrifice their interests to benefit their partner or to maintain the relationship. In the present work, we investigated whether relative power within the relationship plays an important role in determining the extent to which partners are likely to sacrifice. Drawing from both classic theories and recent research on power, we tested two competing predictions on the relationship between power and sacrifice in romantic relationships. We tested whether (a) power is negatively related to sacrifice and (b) power is positively related to sacrifice. Furthermore, we also explored whether the association between power and sacrifice is moderated by commitment and inclusion of the other in the self. To test our hypotheses, we used different methodologies, including questionnaires, diary studies, and videotaped interactions. Results across the five studies ( N = 1,088) consistently supported the hypothesis that power is negatively related to tendencies to sacrifice in close relationships.