bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ABT-737 Induces Apoptosis in Mantle Cell Lymphoma Cells with a Bcl-2high/Mcl-1low Profile and Synergizes with Other Antineoplastic Agents
Authors: Touzeau Cyrille , Dousset Christelle , Bodet Linda , Gomez-Bougie Patricia , Bonnaud Stéphanie , Moreau Anne , Moreau Philippe , Pellat-Deceunynck Catherine , Amiot Martine , Le Gouill Steven
Published: August 2011

Purpose: Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is considered to be incurable. ABT-737 is a BH3 mimetic that targets Bcl-2, which is overexpressed in MCL and implicated in drug resistance. The present work investigated the antitumor effect of ABT-737.

Experimental Design: Six MCL cell lines and primary MCL cells (n = 13) were used. Sensitivity to ABT-737 was assessed, and expression levels of Bcl-2 and Mcl-1 were analyzed. Finally, ABT-737 was combined with other cytotoxic agents to promote tailored therapy.

Results: MINO and GRANTA-519 cell lines were highly sensitive to ABT-737 [the median lethal dose (LD50) = 20 and 80 nmol/L, respectively], whereas other cell lines were resistant. In primary MCL cells, 46% of patients' samples were sensitive to ABT-737. The analysis of protein expression levels revealed that both sensitive cell lines and primary MCL cells could be characterized by a Bcl-2high/Mcl-1low profile, whereas resistant MCL cells contained high levels of Mcl-1. ABT-737 induced a rapid disruption of both Bcl-2/Bax and Bcl-2/Bik complexes. In addition, silencing of Mcl-1 by siRNA sensitized MCL cell lines to ABT-737. Similarly, flavopiridol, which induces Mcl-1 downregulation, in combination with ABT-737 led to a synergistic anti-MCL effect in ABT-737–resistant cell lines. This synergy was also observed when ABT-737 was combined with either bortezomib or cytarabine.

Conclusions: The present work shows that ABT-737 induces strong apoptosis in MCL cells expressing a Bcl-2high/Mcl-1low profile. In ABT-737–resistant MCL cells, downregulation of Mcl-1 overcomes Mcl-1–induced resistance and synergizes ABT-737 effects. Our results strongly support the use of ABT-737 according to the Bcl-2/Mcl-1 tumor cell profiles in the treatment of MCL. Clin Cancer Res; 17(18); 5973–81. ©2011 AACR.
IKKβ Overexpression Leads to Pathologic Lesions in Stratified Epithelia and Exocrine Glands and to Tumoral Transformation of Oral Epithelia
Authors: Page Angustias , Cascallana José L. , Casanova M. Llanos , Navarro Manuel , Alameda Josefa P. , Pérez Paloma , Bravo Ana , Ramírez Angel
Published: August 2011

Alterations in nuclear factor kappaB (NFκB) signaling have been related with several diseases and importantly also with cancer. Different animal models with increased or diminished NFκB signaling have shown that NFκB subunits and their regulators are relevant to the pathophysiology of different organs and tissues. In particular, both the deletion of the regulatory subunit β of the kinase of the inhibitor of NFκB (IKKβ) and its overexpression in epidermis lead to the development of skin inflammatory diseases not associated with tumoral lesions. In this work, we have studied the consequences of IKKβ overexpression in other organs and tissues. We found that elevated IKKβ levels led to altered development and functionality of exocrine glands (i.e., mammary glands) in transgenic female mice. In oral epithelia, increased IKKβ expression produced lichenoid inflammation with abundant granulocytes, macrophages, and B cells, among other inflammatory cells. This inflammatory phenotype was associated with high incidence of tumoral lesions in oral epithelia, contrary to what was found in skin. Moreover, IKKβ also increased the malignant progression of both spontaneous and experimentally induced oral tumors. These results highlight the importance of IKKβ in epithelial and glandular homeostasis as well as in oral tumorigenesis and open the possibility that IKKβ activity might be implicated in the development of oral cancer in humans. Mol Cancer Res; 9(10); 1329–38. ©2011 AACR.
On the use of indicators of the generosity of unemployment compensation in quantitative cross-national research
Authors: Smith Michael R , Zhang Heather
Published: August 2011

Interest in unemployment compensation transcends disciplinary boundaries. Research on it deals with both the sources of relative generosity in national systems and the consequences of that generosity for work incentives and the incidence of poverty. A significant proportion of the research on these subjects involves cross-national analyses using data sets from the OECD containing information on components of the unemployment compensation system. In this article we examine the adequacy of the data used for the purposes to which it is put – and find it seriously wanting in several respects.
Positive body image: Inter-ethnic and rural–urban differences among an indigenous sample from Malaysian Borneo
Authors: Swami Viren , Kannan Kumaraswami , Furnham Adrian
Published: August 2011

Background:

Previous studies examining body image from a cross-cultural perspective have tended to neglect samples from different ethnic groups or along a rural–urban continuum. To overcome this limitation, the present study examined positive body image among rural and urban women from three major indigenous ethnic groups in Sabah, Malaysia.

Method:

A total of 202 women completed the Body Appreciation Scale, as well as measures of media exposure and financial security, and provided their demographic details.

Results:

Results showed that there were significant rural–urban differences in body appreciation, with rural participants having significantly higher body appreciation than urban participants. A comparison with a previous data set of West Malaysian women (Swami & Chamorro-Premuzic, 2008) showed that the current urban sample had significantly lower body appreciation and that the rural group had significantly higher body appreciation. Further results showed that research site (urban vs rural) explained 11.0% of the variance in body appreciation. Participant body mass index and exposure to western forms of media explained an additional 2.0% of the variance.

Conclusion:

These results suggest that there are differences in body image between rural and urban women. Results are discussed in relation to the promotion of positive body image, particularly in developing societies where health care resources may be limited.
Redefining Soldierly Role Models in Germany
Authors: Mannitz Sabine
Published: August 2011

The developments global politics has experienced over the past twenty years have altered the conditions for being a soldier in Germany like in many other countries as well. The way in which national defense had been understood lost plausibility with the end of the Cold War. Conflict and threat scenarios changed and the missions of the armed forces were largely reconceptualized to include multinational crisis management. The effects of this redefinition of tasks and of the unconventional military engagements are as yet underexplored. In particular, there are gaps in our knowledge of how institutional regulations and the formulation of the norms which inform social practices in society and the armed forces relate to one another under the changed political circumstances of contemporary military missions. The article addresses the related changes with particular consideration of the ways in which soldiers in Germany make new sense of their contemporary tasks and roles.
Contraception as Health? The Framing of Issue Categories in Contemporary Policy Making
Authors: Rasmussen Amy Cabrera
Published: August 2011

This study examines the changing classification of contraception vis-à-vis health insurance within legislative, legal, and administrative venues at the state and national levels. It brings together research on categorization and framing in public policy discourse to show (a) how categorization processes shape not only groups of people but also policy issues and (b) how framing can operate not only within issue categories but also to construct issue categories themselves. Through attention to the larger policy-making trajectory and an in-depth state-level case study, the author develops a typology of categorization frames and explores the likely outcomes of categorization in recent health care reform.
A Research Agenda on Feminist Texts and the Gendered Constitution of International Politics in Rebecca West’s Black Lamb and Grey Falcon
Authors: Hansen Lene
Published: August 2011

This article starts from two interventions made at the 2008 Millennium Roundtable Discussion on Gender and International Relations: Vivienne Jabri’s suggestion that feminist IR might benefit from a closer engagement with the constitution of ‘the international’ and ‘the political’ in feminist texts and Christine Sylvester’s call for incorporating ‘difficult feminisms’ that challenge dominant understandings of which political and analytical perspective should be adopted. In response, this article lays out a more concrete research agenda focused on feminist texts that takes an empirically open view of what ‘feminism’ is and which incorporates factual genres and disciplines beyond political science and philosophy. To provide an example of a reading of ‘the international’ and ‘the political’ in a (difficult) feminist text, I turn to Rebecca West’s Black Lamb and Grey Falcon, a non-fiction genre-hybrid tome of almost 1200 pages published in 1941. Known to an IR audience mainly through its alleged impact on the Bosnian War, I draw upon works in literary theory and women’s studies to bring out West’s gendered vision of international politics, giving particular attention to her constitution of the relationship between national, international and women’s security. The analysis is divided into four parts which examine the gendering and embodying of empires, the politics of art and aesthetics, sacrifice and submission, and the feminist politics of writing.
Predictive Accuracy of Dynamic Risk Factors for Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal Sex Offenders
Authors: Helmus Leslie , Babchishin Kelly M. , Blais Julie
Published: August 2011

Although Aboriginal offenders are overrepresented in Canadian prisons, there is limited research examining the extent to which commonly used risk factors and risk scales are applicable to Aboriginals. Aboriginal ( n = 88) and non-Aboriginal ( n = 509) sex offenders on community supervision were compared on the dynamic risk factors of STABLE-2007. Data on sexual, violent, any crime, and any recidivism (including breaches) were collected with an average follow-up of 3.4 years. Aboriginal offenders scored significantly higher than non-Aboriginal offenders on STABLE-2007 total scores and on several items measuring general criminality. STABLE-2007 did not significantly predict recidivism with Aboriginal offenders (although it did for non-Aboriginals). The general antisociality items were generally significantly less predictive for Aboriginals than non-Aboriginals, whereas items assessing sexual self-regulation and relationship stability predicted similarly for both groups. These exploratory results suggest that Aboriginal sex offenders are a higher-needs group but that some STABLE-2007 items are not predictive with this population.
The Changing Relationship between Education and Marriage in the United States, 1940–2000
Authors: Torr Berna M.
Published: August 2011

In 1940, when gender specialization was high, there was a negative relationship between education and marriage for women. College-educated women were least likely to be currently married and most likely to be never married. Declines in specialization were accompanied by a transition in this relationship. By 2000, when gender specialization was low, there was a positive relationship between education and marriage for women. College-educated women were most likely to be currently married, in part because they were more likely to stay married or remarry after divorce or widowhood. This transition occurred earlier and more completely for black women than for white women. These changes suggest that the relationship between education and marriage is shaped in part by the gender-role context.
Ethnic Identity, Self-Efficacy, and Intercultural Attitudes in East African and U.S. Youth
Authors: Johnson Laura R. , Kim Eun Ha , Johnson-Pynn Julie S. , Schulenberg Stefan E. , Balagaye Herieth , Lugumya Douglas
Published: August 2011

Positive intercultural attitudes and civic action are increasingly important for youth around the world given the economic, social justice, and environmental challenges they face. Among U.S. youth and emerging adults, ethnic identity and self-efficacy are related to positive intercultural attitudes and may prompt civic engagement. Youth’s efficacy and civic involvement are critically important in sub-Saharan Africa, where rates of civil conflict are among the highest in the world. However, little research has been conducted with East African youth. In this paper, we discuss contextual challenges facing East African youth and the potential role of ethnic identity and self-efficacy in promoting peaceful and sustainable societies. We report qualitative results and scores on standard measures of self -efficacy, ethnic identity, and intercultural attitudes for 554 youth members of environmental clubs in Tanzania, Uganda, and the United States. Ethnic identity was associated with enhanced self-efficacy in East African, but not U.S. participants. East Africans scored higher on ethnic identity compared to U.S. youth and were more likely to reference intercultural attitudes in open-ended responses. Results provide some support for construct relevance in East Africa, however psychometric results, including internal consistency, validity, and factor structure, were mixed. Our results provide a cautionary tale about the import of measures across cultures and contexts. There is a need for international research, measurement development, and further explication of the meaning and function of ethnic identity across cultures.
Cure kinetics and chemorheological behavior of a wind epoxy resin system and its viscoelastic properties reinforced by glass fiber matt with process of vacuum assisted resin transfer molding
Authors: Wen Xiufang , Wang Xiaofei , Cai Zhi-Qi , Pi Pihui , Cheng Jiang , Yang Zhuoru
Published: August 2011

In order to investigate the processability of a wind epoxy resin for the vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) process, a differential scanning calorimeter and rheometry instrument were applied to characterize the curing properties and study the chemorheological behavior to obtain a better understanding of the resin system in order to define the implementation of the process. The curing temperature parameters were established along with a cure kinetic model to predict the cure behavior. In addition, the influence of the gelation and vitrification was also examined by rheological methods. No obvious vitrification appeared in the epoxy system and the apparent active energy of the cure reaction calculated by gel time was almost the same as the differential scanning calorimetry result. What is more, the viscoelastic properties of the composite reinforced by glass fiber matt was characterized through dynamic mechanical analysis, and it proved that post-cure was necessary to ensure complete cure and that the stiffness increased several magnitudes after glass fiber reinforcement.
RETRACTED: Money and Mimicry
Authors: Liu Jia (Elke) , Vohs Kathleen D. , Smeesters Dirk
Published: August 2011

The following article has been retracted by the Editor and publishers of Psychological Science:

Liu, J. (E.), Vohs, K. D., & Smeesters, D. (2011). Money and mimicry: When being mimicked makes people feel threatened. Psychological Science, 22, 1150–1151. doi: 10.1177/0956797611418348

The retraction follows the results of an investigation into the work of author Dirk Smeesters. The Smeesters Follow-Up Investigation Committee of Erasmus University Rotterdam has determined the following in regard to the retracted article: The paper indicates that the variable Liking of the confederate consists of two items with α = 0.91, whereas a reconstruction of the data proves that three items were used with α = 0.90. The authors state that respondents were randomly assigned to the different experimental conditions. However a test of independence of gender with the experimental conditions shows that this is not the case ( p < 0.001). In a response, Smeesters acknowledged this observation. The Committee considers this to be a major methodological mistake that can affect the interpretation of the paper referring to Criterion 7: committing imputable inaccuracies when undertaking research. As Smeesters was in charge of data collection the Committee holds him solely responsible. The Committee recommends retraction of this paper. ( Smeesters Follow-Up Investigation Committee, 2014 , p. 7)

The committee found no blame on the part of Smeesters’s coauthors, who have seen and agreed to this retraction.
Impact of a multi-splitter vane configuration on the losses in a 1.5 turbine stage
Authors: Yasa T , Lavagnoli S , Paniagua G
Published: August 2011

This study presents the influence of a multi-body architecture on the aerodynamic performance of a low-pressure stator. The novel design has been studied numerically in a one-and-a-half stage turbine by means of a three-dimensional Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes simulation. This numerical research compares the behaviour of low-pressure stator composed of two different vanes against a conventional axisymmetric single airfoil row. The computational fluid dynamics predictions were calibrated using experimental aerodynamic measurements. Loss generation mechanisms were evaluated for the conventional and multi-splitter cascades at nominal and off-design conditions. At design conditions, the novel stator and conventional designs show comparable performances. However, the performance is drastically reduced at off-design conditions due to the sensitivity of the structural vanes to flow incidence. This article addresses the performance limitation for the multi-splitter vane configuration and presents a new tool to analyse the non-uniform flow conditions associated with such novel design. This procedure should help researchers in addressing any non-axisymmetric design.
Influence of internal parallel and v-shaped ribs on the discharge coefficient of a cylindrical film cooling hole
Authors: Heneka C , Schulz A , Bauer H-J
Published: August 2011

An experimental study has been conducted to investigate the discharge behaviour of cylindrical film cooling holes with the main focus on the effects of rib arrangement and crossflow velocity inside the internal cooling passage of a gas turbine blade. Two straight flow channels of rectangular cross-section simulate the crossflow situations present at the inlet and outlet of a filmcooling hole. The two channels are connected by a single scaled-up film cooling hole with adiameter of 10 mm, an inclination angle of 30°, and a length-to-diameter ratio of 6. Measurements have been performed at various internal crossflow Mach numbers and rib geometries for both parallel and perpendicular orientations of internal and external crossflows. Parallel and v-shaped ribs with quadratic cross-section and four different angles with respect to the internal crossflow direction (45°, 60°, 75°, and 90°) have been placed upstream and downstream of the entrance of the hole at one wall of the cooling passage. The rib height equals the hole diameter, the rib pitch to height ratio is 10. The internal crossflow Mach number has been varied between 0 and 0.37.

The data show that placing ribs onto the wall of the coolant passage may result in reduced, unchanged, or even increased discharge coefficients. Internal crossflow Mach number and orientation of the coolant passage in respect to the hole axis have been identified as major influencing parameters.
Assessing Health Care Reform
Authors: Gettens John , Henry Alexis D. , Himmelstein Jay
Published: August 2011

The changes enacted by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act are designed to substantially increase health insurance coverage. The authors analyze the health care reforms to assess the potential for increased insurance coverage among persons with disabilities. They estimate that approximately 2 million persons with disabilities will be newly insured; however, they also find a probable unintended consequence of the health care reforms: that some persons with disabilities will lose their current Medicaid coverage. The article outlines policy changes that would prevent this unintended consequence before full implementation of the changes in 2014.
Magnetoelectric Energy Harvesting from Vibrations of Multiple Frequencies
Authors: Yang Jin , Wen Yumei , Li Ping
Published: August 2011

A novel multi-frequency vibration energy harvester has been designed and fabricated, which consists of two cantilever beams, two magnetoelectric (ME) transducers and a magnetic circuit. In the harvester, the magnetic forces between the ME transducers and the magnetic circuit will result in additional magnetic stiffness on the two cantilever beams, on which the frequency response of the harvester is highly dependent. In addition, the magnet circuit should provide the best magnetic field conditions for the ME transducers to obtain large ME conversion outputs. Therefore, in this article, a theoretical model is developed to analyze the effects of the structure parameters on the frequency response and the electrical-output for achieving the optimal vibration energy-harvesting performances. A prototype was fabricated and tested. The experimental results showed that, the harvester had a bandwidth of 5.6 Hz and a maximum average power value of 0.25 mW at an acceleration of 0.2  g (with g = 9.8 m/s2).
Transverse Strain Effects on the Measurement of the Thermal Expansion of Composite Structure Using Surface-Mounted Fiber Bragg Grating Sensors
Authors: Kim Hong-Il , Yoon Jae-San , Han Jae-Hung
Published: August 2011

The effects of transverse strain on the wavelength shifts of surface-mounted fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors are investigated. A new FBG model including the concept of strain transmissibility coefficients along the longitudinal and transverse directions of the sensors is proposed. The finite element method is applied to obtain the strain transmissibility coefficients between the FBG sensor and surface of the base structure. The wavelength shifts of each FBG sensor are calculated with respect to the assumed thermal strain condition of the base structures; the estimated strains by the proposed FBG model are compared with the results from conventional FBG model. The numerical results show that the surface strains of the composite structure can be predicted well using the proposed FBG model, while the conventional FBG model results in a larger error when the transverse strain of the base structure is much larger than longitudinal strain of the base structure, as in composite structures under thermal loadings.
Experimental Analysis of a Cantilever Beam with a Shunted Piezoelectric Periodic Array
Authors: Beck Benjamin S. , Cunefare Kenneth A. , Ruzzene Massimo , Collet Manuel
Published: August 2011

The use of both shunted piezoelectric elements and periodic arrays have been investigated independently as well as used in conjunction to modify the vibration of a system. Piezoelectric patches bonded to a cantilever beam which is shunted with an active circuit, specifically a negative capacitance shunt, can control broadband flexural vibrations of a structure. Also, periodic arrays integrated into a structure allow for modification of propagating waves through the mechanical ‘‘stop-bands’’. The performance of a combined shunted periodic piezoelectric patch array will be analyzed in this study by investigating the velocity amplitude of the beam upstream and downstream of the array section and the number of control elements in the array. The negative capacitance shunts caused a global spatial average velocity reduction of 5 dB at the modal peaks from 500 to 5000 Hz. The reduction is shown to be greater in the downstream section of the beam. Also, by increasing the number of patches in the array, the attenuation of the resonances increased non-linearly. The results show that a negative capacitance periodic control array is an effective global vibration reduction system and has the ability to localize energy near the forcing of a structure.
Identification of Multiple Impacts on a Plate Using the Time-Frequency Analysis and the Kalman Filter
Authors: Moon Yoo-Sung , Lee Sang-Kwon , Shin Kihong , Lee Young-Sup
Published: August 2011

This article presents the method of identifying the locations of the multiple impacts on a plate where the impacts occur sequentially. The main aim of this research is to provide the basis on the human-interaction technology using variety of methods used in the area of signal processing, piezoelectric materials, and wave propagation. The work concerning the location identification of a single impact on a plate has been previously studied by means of the time-frequency analysis applied to accelerometer signals. In this article, a novel approach for the location identification of the discrete multiple impacts is presented to investigate the feasibility of applying to a more practical human-interaction system. For the identification of the series of impact locations, the major axisymmetry mode of the Lamb wave on the plate is considered and the CWT is applied to obtain the arrival time difference of the Lamb waves between sensors. Then, the Kalman filtering technique is employed to continuously track the locations of the impact load and to improve the estimation results. The results may well be applied to the real-time health monitoring of the steam generator in a nuclear power plant.
Seismic Response Control Using Shape Memory Alloys: A Review
Authors: Ozbulut O. E. , Hurlebaus S. , Desroches R.
Published: August 2011

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) are a class of alloys that possess numerous unique characteristics. They offer complete shape recovery after experiencing large strains, energy dissipation through hysteresis of response, excellent resistance to corrosion, high fatigue resistance, and high strength. These features of SMAs, which can be exploited for the use in control of civil structures subjected to seismic events, have attracted the interest of many researchers in structural engineering over the past decades. This article presents an extensive review of seismic applications of SMAs. First, a basic description of two unique effects of SMAs, namely shape memory and superelastic effect, is provided. Then, the mechanical characteristics of the most commonly used SMAs are discussed. Next, the material models proposed to capture the response of SMAs in seismic applications are briefly introduced. Finally, applications of SMAs to buildings and bridges to improve seismic response are thoroughly reviewed.
Piezoceramic-based 2D Spiral Array and Multiple Actuators for Structural Health Monitoring: Thin Isotropic Panel with Straight Boundaries
Authors: Yoo Byungseok , Purekar Ashish S. , Pines Darryll J.
Published: August 2011

A new and robust 2D phased array technique with multiple distributed actuators is experimentally studied for damage detection in a thin isotropic panel. This array technique is combined with guided Lamb wave (GLW) interrogation. A 2D phased array technique using a single actuator, located near the center of the array, is unable to detect a linear crack whose orientation is normal to the wavefront of the GLW excited from the actuator. To overcome this limitation, the array is coupled with multiple actuators positioned at four different locations on a test panel, while the array is mounted at the center of the panel. A piezoceramic-based 2D spiral phased array is used as a sensor array. The associated array signal processing is used to produce array responses and detect two types of damages, such as a rubber patch and linear crack. An innovative GLW propagation and reflection analysis method is implemented to evaluate the damage locations within the panel geometry. Experimental results demonstrate that the spiral array damage detection technique, using multiple distributed actuators, can provide more robust damage detection scheme, in thin isotropic panels, than the array technique with a single actuator collocated at the center of the array.
Vibration control of adjacent buildings considering pile-soil-structure interaction
Authors: Zou Lihua , Huang Kai , Wang Liyuan , Butterworth John , Ma Xing
Published: August 2011

This paper presents an investigation of the influence of pile-soil-structure interaction (PSSI) on the vibration control of adjacent buildings with pile foundations. With the initial assumption that adjacent buildings are linked by the control actuator of an ideal hydraulic servo-system, based on the Penzien model, the calculation model for adjacent structures with piled foundations considering PSSI is established. The motion and control equations of adjacent structures are then derived, and the influences of PSSI on vibration control of adjacent buildings analyzed. Finally, the influences of soil and structural parameters on structural vibration control are investigated. The results show that the PSSI has an obvious influence on the response of adjacent structures, but little obvious influence on the change in control force. However, the soil and structural parameters, such as shear-wave velocity and pile stiffness, play a significant role in the control process.
A Rodent Model to Advance the Field Treatment of Crush Muscle Injury During Earthquakes and Other Natural Disasters
Authors: Speck Kirsten , Schneider Barbara St. Pierre , Deashinta Nadia
Published: August 2011

Approximately 170 earthquakes of 6.0 or higher magnitude occur annually worldwide. Victims often suffer crush muscle injuries involving impaired blood flow to the affected muscle and damage to the muscle fiber membrane. Current rescue efforts are directed toward preventing acute kidney injury (AKI), which develops upon extrication and muscle reperfusion. But field-usable, muscle-specific interventions may promote muscle regeneration and prevent or minimize the pathologic changes of reperfusion. Although current rodent crush injury models involve reperfusion upon removal of the crush stimulus, an analysis of their methodological aspects is needed to ensure adequate simulation of the earthquake-related crush injury. The objectives of this systematic review are to (a) describe rodent crush muscle injury models, (b) discuss the benefits and limitations of these models, and (c) offer a recommendation for animal models that would increase our understanding of muscle recovery processes after an earthquake-induced crush muscle injury. The most commonly used rodent model uses a clamping or pressing crush stimulus directly applied to murine hindlimb muscle. This model has increased our understanding of muscle regeneration but its open approach does not adequately represent the earthquake-related crush injury. The model we recommend for developing field-usable, muscle-specific interventions is a closed approach that involves a nonclamping crush stimulus. Findings from studies employing this recommended model may have greater relevance for developing interventions that lessen the earthquake’s devastating impact on individual and community health and quality of life, especially in developing countries.
Social media and social movements: Facebook and an online Guatemalan justice movement that moved offline
Authors: Harlow Summer
Published: August 2011

In May of 2009, a posthumous video surfaced in which prominent lawyer Rodrigo Rosenberg blamed Guatemalan president Alvaro Colom for murdering him. The accusations prompted the creation of numerous Facebook pages calling for Colom’s resignation, and for justice for Rosenberg. Using interviews and a content analysis of Facebook comments from the two most-active Facebook groups, this study found that the social network site was used to mobilize an online movement that moved offline. Users’ protest-related and motivational comments, in addition to their use of links and other interactive elements of Facebook, helped organize massive protests demanding justice and an end to violence.
Mobile communication and strong network ties: Shrinking or expanding spheres of public discourse?
Authors: Campbell Scott W. , Kwak Nojin
Published: August 2011

This study tests theoretical propositions that intensive mobile communication in small networks of like-minded strong ties hinders open dialogue with others. Using multi-wave panel data from a representative sample of adults in the US, the study found that reported levels of open dialogue decreased slightly with mobile-mediated political discussion in small and like-minded strong-tie networks. Interestingly, a more pronounced positive effect was found for mobile-mediated discussion in larger networks of like-minded close ties. In this case, open dialogue was facilitated by mobile-mediated discussion, revealing potential for mobile communication among close personal ties to expand spheres of public discourse and deliberation. Theoretical implications and directions for future research are offered in the discussion.
Tales from the sequestered room: Client experiences of social work in Norway and Sweden
Authors: Ylvisaker Signe
Published: August 2011

• Summary: This article focuses on accounts made by clients and social workers about their encounters with one another at social welfare agencies in Norway and Sweden. These are drawn from interviews conducted with 24 women and men asked about their experiences of being social welfare clients. Additional data drawn from interviews conducted with 14 social workers in Norway about their experiences with clients are also explored. In interviewing clients, a main concern was with discussing their recollections of these meetings. Interviews with social workers, too, focused on their recollections, both positive and negative, of encounters with clients.

• Findings: The main patterns revealed by analyses of transcribed accounts show that social work is experienced by clients as being extremely beneficial when it provides them with space and opportunities to bring forth aspects of their lives and life stories often not properly acknowledged in other arenas. Conversely, social work is experienced as least beneficial by clients when they feel their concerns are being belittled, redefined and/or ignored. Both social workers and clients agree that good social work involves empathy, sensitivity and opportunities allowing clients to voice their own concerns.

• Applications: This study’s findings indicate that one rich source of knowledge about the possibilities as well as limitations of social work practice at welfare agencies is represented by what can be gained by listening attentively to and recording exactly what clients and social workers tell of their encounters in these special sequestered arenas.
Medicinal Plants as Antiemetics in the Treatment of Cancer
Authors: Haniadka Raghavendra , Popouri Sandhya , Palatty Princy Louis , Arora Rajesh , Baliga Manjeshwar Shrinath
Published: August 2011

Chemotherapy- and radiotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting are the most common, intractable and unpleasant side effects in patients undergoing treatment for cancer. 5-Hydroxytryptamine-3 (5-HT3) receptor antagonists plus dexamethasone have significantly improved the control of acute nausea and vomiting, but delayed nausea and vomiting remains a significant clinical problem. Combined neurokinin-1 receptor antagonists with 5-HT3 antagonists and steroids are observed to be better in the control of both acute and delayed emesis. However, the use of these antiemetics is observed to possess inherent side effects. The medicinal plants such as Scutellaria baicalensis, Korean red ginseng, American ginseng berry, Ganoderma lucidum, Zingiber officinale, grape seed extract, and the oil of Mentha spicata are reported to be effective in the treatment of nausea and vomiting mostly in preclinical studies. Of these, ginger has also been evaluated for its efficacy in humans and the results have been contradictory. The current review for the first time summarizes the results related to these properties. An attempt is also made to address the lacunae in these published studies and to emphasize aspects that need further investigations for these plants to be of use in clinics in the future.
Use of a Superficial Femoral Artery Autograft as a Femoral Vein Replacement During En Bloc Sarcoma Resection
Authors: Ghosh Jonathan , Naik Jagjeeth , Chandrasekar Coonoor , Yin Qi , Vallabhaneni Srinivasa R.
Published: August 2011

Introduction: Soft tissue malignancy encasing axial vessels presents a surgical challenge when the goal is limb-preserving radical excision. Report: We describe a case where limb-preserving resection of a myxoid liposarcoma involving the femoral vessels was successfully performed in the absence of autologous superficial vein for vascular reconstruction. The proximal ipsilateral superficial femoral artery was harvested as an autograft for venous reconstruction, with the arterial defect bridged using a polytetrafluoroethylene interposition graft. Discussion: This technique may be selectively extended to other indications where limb viability is dependent upon availability of a high-quality graft, and conventional conduits are either unavailable or unreliable.
Exposure to Acute Intermittent Hypoxia Augments Somatic Motor Function in Humans With Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Trumbower Randy D. , Jayaraman Arun , Mitchell Gordon S. , Rymer William Z.
Published: August 2011

Background. Neural plasticity may contribute to motor recovery following spinal cord injury (SCI). In rat models of SCI with respiratory impairment, acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH) strengthens synaptic inputs to phrenic motor neurons, thereby improving respiratory function by a mechanism known as respiratory long-term facilitation. Similar intermittent hypoxia-induced facilitation may be feasible in somatic motor pathways in humans. Objective. Using a randomized crossover design, the authors tested the hypothesis that AIH increases ankle strength in people with incomplete SCI. Methods. Ankle strength was measured in 13 individuals with chronic, incomplete SCI before and after AIH. Voluntary ankle strength was estimated using changes in maximum isometric ankle plantar flexion torque generation and plantar flexor electromyogram activity following 15 low oxygen exposures (Fio2 = 0.09, 1-minute intervals). Results were compared with trials where subjects received sham exposure to room air. Results. AIH increased plantar flexion torque by 82 ± 33% ( P < .003) immediately following AIH and was sustained above baseline for more than 90 minutes ( P < .007). Increased ankle plantar flexor electromyogram activity ( P = .01) correlated with increased torque ( r2 = .5; P < .001). No differences in plantar flexion strength or electromyogram activity were observed in sham experiments. Conclusions. AIH elicits sustained increases in volitional somatic motor output in persons with chronic SCI. Thus, AIH has promise as a therapeutic tool to induce plasticity and enhance motor function in SCI patients.
IGF binding protein 2 supports the survival and cycling of hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Huynh HoangDinh , Zheng Junke , Umikawa Masato , Zhang Chaozheng , Silvany Robert , Iizuka Satoru , Holzenberger Martin , Zhang Wei , Zhang Cheng Cheng
Published: August 2011

The role of IGF binding protein 2 (IGFBP2) in cell growth is intriguing and largely undefined. Previously we identified IGFBP2 as an extrinsic factor that supports ex vivo expansion of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). Here we showed that IGFBP2-null mice have fewer HSCs than wild-type mice. While IGFBP2 has little cell-autonomous effect on HSC function, we found decreased in vivo repopulation of HSCs in primary and secondary transplanted IGFBP2-null recipients. Importantly, bone marrow stromal cells that are deficient for IGFBP2 have significantly decreased ability to support the expansion of repopulating HSCs. To investigate the mechanism by which IGFBP2 supports HSC activity, we demonstrated that HSCs in IGFBP2-null mice had decreased survival and cycling, down-regulated expression of antiapoptotic factor Bcl-2, and up-regulated expression of cell cycle inhibitors p21, p16, p19, p57, and PTEN. Moreover, we found that the C-terminus, but not the RGD domain, of extrinsic IGFBP2 was essential for support of HSC activity. Defective signaling of the IGF type I receptor did not rescue the decreased repopulation of HSCs in IGFBP2-null recipients, suggesting that the environmental effect of IGFBP2 on HSCs is independent of IGF-IR mediated signaling. Therefore, as an environmental factor, IGFBP2 supports the survival and cycling of HSCs.
Dual-functional capability of CD3+CD56+ CIK cells, a T-cell subset that acquires NK function and retains TCR-mediated specific cytotoxicity
Authors: Pievani Alice , Borleri Gianmaria , Pende Daniela , Moretta Lorenzo , Rambaldi Alessandro , Golay Josée , Introna Martino
Published: August 2011

CD3+CD56+ cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells display a potent cytolytic activity. The adhesion molecule lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 plays a crucial role in binding as well as in cytolytic activity of CIK cells against tumor target cells expressing the corresponding ligands. CIK cells express activating natural killer (NK) receptors, including NKG2D, DNAX accessory molecule-1 (DNAM-1), and low levels of NKp30. Cell signaling not only through TCR/CD3 but also through NKG2D, DNAM-1, and NKp30 leads to CIK cell activation resulting in granule exocytosis, cytokine secretion, and cytotoxicity. Antibody blocking experiments showed that DNAM-1, NKG2D, and NKp30 are involved in the TCR-independent tumor cell recognition and killing. Anti–CMV-specific CIK cells could be expanded in standard CIK cultures and mediate both specific, MHC-restricted recognition and TCR-independent NK-like cytolytic activity against leukemic cell lines or fresh leukemic blasts. Antibody blocking of lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 and DNAM-1 led to significant reduction of both CTL and NK-cell functions, whereas blocking of NKG2D and NKp30 only inhibited NK-like cytotoxicity. Their dual-effector function suggests that CIK cells, when used in a clinical setting, may control both neoplastic relapses and viral infections, 2 frequently associated complications in patients who received a transplant.
Follicular lymphoma tumor–infiltrating T-helper (TH) cells have the same polyfunctional potential as normal nodal TH cells despite skewed differentiation
Authors: Hilchey Shannon P. , Rosenberg Alexander F. , Hyrien Ollivier , Secor-Socha Shelley , Cochran Matthew R. , Brady Michael T. , Wang Jyh-Chiang E. , Sanz Iñaki , Burack W. Richard , Quataert Sally A. , Bernstein Steven H.
Published: August 2011

The follicular lymphoma (FL) T-cell microenvironment plays a critical role in the biology of this disease. We therefore determined the lineage, differentiation state, and functional potential of FL-infiltrating CD4+ T-helper cells (TH) compared with reactive and normal lymph node (NLN) TH cells. Relative to NLNs, FL cells have decreased proportions of naive and central memory but increased proportions of effector memory TH cells. We further show differences in the distribution and anatomical localization of CXCR5+ TH populations that, on the basis of transcription factor analysis, include both regulatory and follicular helper T cells. On Staphylococcus enterotoxin-B stimulation, which stimulates T cells through the T-cell receptor, requires no processing by APCs, and can overcome regulator T cell-mediated suppression, the proportion of uncommitted primed precursor cells, as well as TH2 and TH17 cells is higher in FL cells than in reactive lymph nodes or NLNs. However, the proportion of TH1 and polyfunctional TH cells (producing multiple cytokines simultaneously) is similar in FL cells and NLNs. These data suggest that, although TH-cell differentiation in FL is skewed compared with NLNs, FL TH cells should have the same intrinsic ability to elicit antitumor effector responses as NLN TH cells when tumor suppressive mechanisms are attenuated.
KLF1 gene mutations cause borderline HbA2
Authors: Perseu Lucia , Satta Stefania , Moi Paolo , Demartis Franca Rosa , Manunza Laura , Sollaino Maria Carla , Barella Susanna , Cao Antonio , Galanello Renzo
Published: August 2011

Increased hemoglobin A2 (HbA2; ie, levels > 3.9%) is the most important feature of β-thalassemia carriers. However, it is not uncommon to find persons with borderline HbA2 (levels, 3.3%-3.8%), who pose a relevant screening problem. Several genotypes have been associated with borderline HbA2, but sometimes the reasons for this unusual phenotype are unknown. In this paper, we report, for the first time, that mutations of KLF1 result in HbA2 levels in the borderline range. Six different KLF1 mutations were identified in 52 of 145 subjects with borderline HbA2 and normal mean corpuscular volume and mean corpuscular hemoglobin. Two mutations (T327S and T280_H283del) are here reported for the first time. The prevalent mutation in Sardinians is S270X, which accounts for 80.8% of the total. The frequent discovery of KLF1 mutations in these atypical carriers may contribute significantly to the thalassemia screening programs aimed at identification of at risk couples.
Phase 2 study of cladribine followed by rituximab in patients with hairy cell leukemia
Authors: Ravandi Farhad , O'Brien Susan , Jorgensen Jeffrey , Pierce Sherry , Faderl Stefan , Ferrajoli Alessandra , Koller Charles , Challagundla Pramoda , York Sergernne , Brandt Mark , Luthra Rajyalakshmi , Burger Jan , Thomas Deborah , Keating Michael , Kantarjian Hagop
Published: August 2011

We conducted this study to determine the feasibility and safety of cladribine followed by rituximab in patients with hairy cell leukemia including the vari-ant form (HCLv). Cladribine 5.6 mg/m2 given IV over 2 hours daily for 5 days was followed ∼ 1 month later with rituximab 375 mg/m2 IV weekly for 8 weeks. Responses were recorded and BM minimal residual disease (MRD) was evaluated after the completion of rituximab. Thirty-six patients have been treated including 5 with HCLv. Median age was 57 years (range, 37-89). All patients (100%) have achieved complete response (CR), defined as presence of no hairy cells in BM and blood with normalization of counts (absolute neutrophil count [ANC]> 1.5 × 109/L, hemoglobin [Hgb] > 12.0 g/dL, platelets [PLT] > 100 × 109/L), as well as resolution of splenomegaly. There were no grade 3 or 4 nonhematologic adverse events directly related to the treatment. Only 1 patient (with HCLv) has relapsed; median CR duration has not been reached (range,1+-63+ months). Three patients with HCLv died including 1 with relapsed disease and 2 from unrelated malignancies. Median survival duration has not been reached (range, 2+-64+ months). Treatment with clad-ribine followed by rituximab is effective tk;4and may increase CR rate. This study was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00412594.