bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oncolytic Measles Virus Expressing the Sodium Iodide Symporter to Treat Drug-Resistant Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Galanis Evanthia , Atherton Pamela J. , Maurer Matthew J. , Knutson Keith L. , Dowdy Sean C. , Cliby William A. , Haluska Paul , Long Harry J. , Oberg Ann , Aderca Ileana , Block Matthew S. , Bakkum-Gamez Jamie , Federspiel Mark J. , Russell Stephen J. , Kalli Kimberly R. , Keeney Gary , Peng Kah Whye , Hartmann Lynn C.
Published: November 2014

Edmonston vaccine strains of measles virus (MV) have significant antitumor activity in mouse xenograft models of ovarian cancer. MV engineered to express the sodium iodide symporter gene (MV-NIS) facilitates localization of viral gene expression and offers a tool for tumor radiovirotherapy. Here, we report results from a clinical evaluation of MV-NIS in patients with taxol- and platinum-resistant ovarian cancer. MV-NIS was given intraperitoneally every 4 weeks for up to 6 cycles. Treatment was well tolerated and associated with promising median overall survival in these patients with heavily pretreated ovarian cancer; no dose-limiting toxicity was observed in 16 patients treated at high-dose levels (108–109 TCID50), and their median overall survival of 26.5 months compared favorably with other contemporary series. MV receptor CD46 and nectin-4 expression was confirmed by immunohistochemistry in patient tumors. Sodium iodide symporter expression in patient tumors after treatment was confirmed in three patients by 123I uptake on SPECT/CTs and was associated with long progression-free survival. Immune monitoring posttreatment showed an increase in effector T cells recognizing the tumor antigens IGFBP2 and FRα, indicating that MV-NIS treatment triggered cellular immunity against the patients' tumor and suggesting that an immune mechanism mediating the observed antitumor effect. Our findings support further clinical evaluation of MV-NIS as an effective immunovirotherapy. Cancer Res; 75(1); 22–30. ©2014 AACR.
Intake of Toxic and Carcinogenic Volatile Organic Compounds from Secondhand Smoke in Motor Vehicles
Authors: St.Helen Gideon , Jacob Peyton , Peng Margaret , Dempsey Delia A. , Hammond S. Katharine , Benowitz Neal L.
Published: November 2014

Background: Volatile organic compounds (VOC) from tobacco smoke are associated with cancer, cardiovascular, and respiratory diseases. The objective of this study was to characterize the exposure of nonsmokers to VOCs from secondhand smoke (SHS) in vehicles using mercapturic acid metabolites.

Methods: Fourteen nonsmokers were individually exposed in the backseat to one hour of SHS from a smoker seated in the driver's seat who smoked three cigarettes at 20-minute intervals in a stationary car with windows opened by 10 cm. Baseline and 0- to 8-hour postexposure mercapturic acid metabolites of nine VOCs were measured in urine. Air-to-urine VOC ratios were estimated on the basis of respirable particulate matter (PM2.5) or air nicotine concentration, and lifetime excess risk (LER) of cancer death from exposure to acrylonitrile, benzene, and 1,3-butadiene was estimated for adults.

Results: The greatest increase in 0- to 8-hour postexposure concentrations of mercapturic acids from baseline was MHBMA-3 (parent, 1,3-butadiene; 2.1-fold), then CNEMA (acrylonitrile; 1.7-fold), PMA (benzene; 1.6-fold), MMA (methylating agents; 1.6-fold), and HEMA (ethylene oxide; 1.3-fold). The LER of cancer death from exposure to acrylonitrile, benzene, and 1,3-butadiene in SHS for 5 hours a week ranged from 15.5 × 10−6 to 28.1 × 10−6 for adults, using air nicotine and PM2.5 to predict air VOC exposure, respectively.

Conclusion: Nonsmokers have significant intake of multiple VOCs from breathing SHS in cars, corresponding to health risks that exceed the acceptable level.

Impact: Smoking in cars may be associated with increased risks of cancer, respiratory, and cardiovascular diseases among nonsmokers. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(12); 2774–82. ©2014 AACR.
Radiation Protection of the Gastrointestinal Tract and Growth Inhibition of Prostate Cancer Xenografts by a Single Compound
Authors: Alexeev Vitali , Lash Elizabeth , Aguillard April , Corsini Laura , Bitterman Avi , Ward Keith , Dicker Adam P. , Linnenbach Alban , Rodeck Ulrich
Published: November 2014

Normal tissue toxicity markedly reduces the therapeutic index of genotoxic anticancer agents, including ionizing radiation. Countermeasures against tissue damage caused by radiation are limited by their potential to also protect malignant cells and tissues. Here, we tested a panel of signal transduction modifiers for selective radioprotection of normal but not tumor tissues. These included three inhibitors of GSK3 (LiCl, SB216763, and SB415286) and two inhibitors of NF-κB (ethyl pyruvate and RTA 408). Among these, the thiol-reactive triterpenoid RTA 408 emerged as a robust and effective protector of multiple organ systems (gastrointestinal, skin, and hemopoietic) against lethal doses of radiation. RTA 408 preserved survival and proliferation of intestinal crypt cells in lethally irradiated mice while reducing apoptosis incidence in crypts and villi. In contrast, RTA 408 uniformly inhibited growth of established CWR22Rv1, LNCaP/C4-2B, PC3, and DU145 xenografts either alone or combined with radiation. Antitumor effects in vivo were associated with reduced proliferation and intratumoral apoptosis and with inhibition of NF-κB–dependent transcription in PC3 cells. Selective protection of normal tissue compartments by RTA 408 critically depended on tissue context and could not be replicated in vitro. Collectively, these data highlight the potential of RTA 408 as a cytoprotective agent that may be safely used in chemoradiation approaches. Mol Cancer Ther; 13(12); 2968–77. ©2014 AACR.
Risk of Heart Failure Among Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Donneyong Macarius M. , Hornung Carlton A. , Taylor Kira C. , Baumgartner Richard N. , Myers John A. , Eaton Charles B. , Gorodeski Eiran Z. , Klein Liviu , Martin Lisa W. , Shikany James M. , Song Yiqing , Li Wenjun , Manson JoAnn E.
Published: November 2014

Background—

Vitamin D supplementation may be an inexpensive intervention to reduce heart failure (HF) incidence. However, there are insufficient data to support this hypothesis. This study evaluates whether vitamin D plus calcium (CaD) supplementation is associated with lower rates of HF in postmenopausal women and whether the effects differ between those at high versus low risk for HF.

Methods and Results—

Analyses were restricted to 35 983 (of original 36 282) women aged 50 to 79 years old in the Women’s Health Initiative randomized trial of CaD supplementation who were randomized 1:1 in a double-blinded fashion to receive 1000 mg/d of calcium plus 400 IU/d of vitamin D
3
or placebo. Overall, 744 adjudicated incident HF cases (intervention, 363; control, 381) occurred during a median follow-up of 7.1 (interquartile range, 1.6) years. CaD supplementation, compared with placebo, was not associated with reduced HF risk in the overall population, hazard ratio, 0.95;
P
=0.46. However, CaD supplementation had differential effects (
P
interaction=0.005) in subgroups stratified by baseline risk status of HF defined by the presence (high risk=17 449) or absence (low risk=18 534) of pre-existing HF precursors including coronary heart diseases, diabetes mellitus, or hypertension: 37% (hazard ratio, 0.63 [95% confidence interval, 0.46–0.87]) lower risk of HF in the low-risk versus hazard ratio, 1.06;
P
=0.51, in the high-risk subgroups.

Conclusions—

CaD supplementation did not significantly reduce HF incidence in the overall cohort, however, it was beneficial among postmenopausal women without major HF precursors while of little value in high-risk subgroups. Additional studies are warranted to confirm these findings and investigate the underlying mechanism.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00000611.
Circulating Cells Contribute to Cardiomyocyte Regeneration After Injury
Authors: Wu Jasmine M.F. , Hsueh Ying-Chang , Ch’ang Hui-Ju , Luo Chwan-Yau , Wu Li-Wha , Nakauchi Hiromitsu , Hsieh Patrick C.H.
Published: November 2014

Rationale:

The contribution of bone marrow–borne hematopoietic cells to the ischemic myocardium has been documented. However, a pivotal study reported no evidence of myocardial regeneration from hematopoietic-derived cells. The study did not take into account the possible effect of early injury–induced signaling as the test mice were parabiotically paired to partners immediately after surgery-induced myocardial injury when cross-circulation has not yet developed.

Objective:

To re-evaluate the role of circulating cells in the injured myocardium.

Methods and Results:

By combining pulse-chase labeling and parabiosis model, we show that circulating cells derived from the parabiont expressed cardiac-specific markers in the injured myocardium. Genetic fate mapping also revealed that circulating hematopoietic cells acquired cardiac cell fate by means of cell fusion and transdifferentiation.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that circulating cells participate in cardiomyocyte regeneration in a mouse model of parabiosis when the circulatory system is fully developed before surgery-induced heart injury.
CD4
+
Natural Killer T Cells Potently Augment Aortic Root Atherosclerosis by Perforin- and Granzyme B-Dependent Cytotoxicity
Authors: Li Yi , To Kelly , Kanellakis Peter , Hosseini Hamid , Deswaerte Virginie , Tipping Peter , Smyth Mark J. , Toh Ban-Hock , Bobik Alexander , Kyaw Tin
Published: November 2014

Rationale:

CD4
+
natural killer T (NKT) cells augment atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E–deficient (
ApoE
)
−/−
mice but their mechanisms of action are unknown.

Objectives:

We investigated the roles of bystander T, B, and NK cells; NKT cell–derived interferon-γ, interleukin (IL)-4, and IL-21 cytokines; and NKT cell–derived perforin and granzyme B cytotoxins in promoting CD4
+
NKT cell atherogenicity.

Methods and Results:

Transfer of CD4
+
NKT cells into T- and B-cell–deficient

ApoE
−/−
Rag2
−/−

mice augmented aortic root atherosclerosis by ≈75% that was ≈30% of lesions in ApoE
−/−
mice; macrophage accumulation similarly increased. Transferred NKT cells were identified in the liver and atherosclerotic lesions of recipient mice. Transfer of CD4
+
NKT cells into T-, B-cell–deficient, and NK cell–deficient

ApoE
−/−
Rag2
−/−
γC
−/−

mice also augmented atherosclerosis. These data indicate that CD4
+
NKT cells can exert proatherogenic effects independent of other lymphocytes. To investigate the role of NKT cell–derived interferon-γ, IL-4, and IL-21 cytokines and perforin and granzyme B cytotoxins, CD4
+
NKT cells from mice deficient in these molecules were transferred into NKT cell–deficient

ApoE
−/−
Jα18
−/−

mice. CD4
+
NKT cells deficient in IL-4, interferon-γ, or IL-21 augmented atherosclerosis in

ApoE
−/−
Jα18
−/−

mice by ≈95%, ≈80%, and ≈70%, respectively. Transfer of CD4
+
NKT cells deficient in perforin or granzyme B failed to augment atherosclerosis. Apoptotic cells, necrotic cores, and proinflammatory VCAM-1 (vascular cell adhesion molecule) and MCP-1 (monocyte chemotactic protein) were reduced in mice receiving perforin-deficient NKT cells. CD4
+
NKT cells are twice as potent as CD4
+
T cells in promoting atherosclerosis.

Conclusions:

CD4
+
NKT cells potently promote atherosclerosis by perforin and granzyme B–dependent apoptosis that increases postapoptotic necrosis and inflammation.
Topographic–Thermal Circulations and GPS-Measured Moisture Variability around Mayaguez, Puerto Rico
Authors: Villamil-Otero Gian , Meiszberg Ryan , Haase Jennifer S. , Min Ki-Hong , Jury Mark R. , Braun John J.
Published: November 2014

To investigate topographic–thermal circulations and the associated moisture variability over western Puerto Rico, field data were collected from 15 to 31 March 2011. Surface meteorological instruments and ground-based GPS receivers measured the circulation and precipitable water with high spatial and temporal resolution, and the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model was used to simulate the mesoscale flow at 1-km resolution. A westerly onshore flow of ~4 m s−1 over Mayaguez Bay was observed on many days, due to an interaction between thermally driven [3°C (10 km)−1] sea-breeze circulation and an island wake comprised of twin gyres. The thermally driven sea breeze occurred only when easterly synoptic winds favorably oriented the gyres with respect to the coast. Moisture associated with onshore flow was characterized by GPS measured precipitable water (PW). There is diurnal cycling of PW > 3 cm over the west coast during periods of onshore flow. The WRF Model tends to overestimate PW on the west side of the island, suggesting evapotranspiration as a process needing further attention. Fluctuations of PW affect local rainfall in times of convective instability.
The Effects of Diversity and Network Ties on Innovations
Authors: Lungeanu Alina , Contractor Noshir S.
Published: November 2014

This study examines the influence of different types of diversity, both observable and unobservable, on the creation of innovative ideas. Our framework draws on theory and research on information processing, social categorization, coordination, and homophily to posit the influence of cognitive, gender, and country diversity on innovation. Our longitudinal model is based on a unique data set of 1,354 researchers who helped create the new scientific field of oncofertility, by collaborating on 469 publications over a 4-year period. We capture the differences among researchers along cognitive, country, and gender dimensions, as well as examine how the resulting diversity or homophily influences the formation of collaborative innovation networks. We find that innovation, operationalized as publishing in a new scientific discipline, benefits from both homophily and diversity. Homophily in country of residence and working with prior collaborators help reduce uncertainty in the interactions associated with innovation, while diversity in knowledge enables the recombinant knowledge required for innovation.
Pediatric Hypertension Specialists’ Perspectives About Adolescent Hypertension Management
Authors: Yoon Esther , McCool Brigitte , Filipp Stephanie , Rocchini Albert , Kershaw David , Clark Sarah
Published: November 2014

Background. The current specialty-centric hypertension paradigm is unsustainable given the high prevalence of primary hypertension in adolescents. Objective. To describe specialists’ perspectives on referral and comanagement for adolescents with hypertension. Methods. Cross-sectional mailed survey of a national sample of 397 pediatric cardiologists and 389 pediatric nephrologists, conducted January to May 2014. Results. Response rate was 61%. Both specialties agreed that primary care providers can make the hypertension diagnosis, try lifestyle changes, and comanage monitoring of patient blood pressure control and medication side effects, but they felt antihypertensive medication use should mainly occur in the specialty setting. Conclusions. Our study suggests specialist support for changing the hypertension paradigm to encourage primary care providers, in collaboration with specialists, to diagnose hypertension, initiate lifestyle changes, and monitor progress and side effects. Future work should focus on supporting primary care physician comanagement of adolescents with hypertension.
Bruising in Children
Authors: Jackson Jami , Miller Melissa , Moffatt Mary , Carpenter Shannon , Sherman Ashley , Anderst James
Published: November 2014

The evaluation for children with bruising may be affected by the specialty to which they are referred. We conducted a 3-year retrospective review of subjects referred for bruising to Child Abuse Pediatrics (CAP) or Pediatric Hematology to identify characteristics associated with referral to each specialty and to compare the diagnostic evaluations and diagnoses based on specialty. Of 369 subjects, 275 were referred to CAP and 94 to Hematology. Clinical exam findings were similar in both groups. Hematology referrals were significantly more likely to have laboratory evaluations. Among those referred to CAP, 9.5% had head computed tomography scans and 27.3% had skeletal surveys. No children referred to Hematology had these imaging studies performed. Hematology never diagnosed child physical abuse, and CAP never diagnosed bleeding disorders. Pediatric hematologists and CAPs perform different evaluations and reach different diagnostic conclusions for similar patients with bruising. Further investigation of these practice patterns is warranted.
Early Dental Epithelial Transcription Factors Distinguish Ameloblastoma from Keratocystic Odontogenic Tumor
Authors: Heikinheimo K. , Kurppa K.J. , Laiho A. , Peltonen S. , Berdal A. , Bouattour A. , Ruhin B. , Catón J. , Thesleff I. , Leivo I. , Morgan P.R.
Published: November 2014

The aim of the study was to characterize the molecular relationship between ameloblastoma and keratocystic odontogenic tumor (KCOT) by means of a genome-wide expression analysis. Total RNA from 27 fresh tumor samples of 15 solid/multicystic intraosseous ameloblastomas and 12 sporadic KCOTs was hybridized on Affymetrix whole genome arrays. Hierarchical clustering separated ameloblastomas and KCOTs into 2 distinct groups. The gene set enrichment analysis based on 303 dental genes showed a similar separation of ameloblastomas and KCOTs. Early dental epithelial markers PITX2, MSX2, DLX2, RUNX1, and ISL1 were differentially overexpressed in ameloblastoma, indicating its dental identity. Also, PTHLH, a hormone involved in tooth eruption and invasive growth, was one of the most differentially upregulated genes in ameloblastoma. The most differentially overexpressed genes in KCOT were squamous epithelial differentiation markers SPRR1A, KRTDAP, and KRT4, as well as DSG1, a component of desmosomal cell-cell junctions. Additonally, the epithelial stem cell marker SOX2 was significantly upregulated in KCOT when compared with ameloblastoma. Taken together, the gene expression profile of ameloblastoma reflects differentiation from dental lamina toward the cap/bell stage of tooth development, as indicated by dental epithelium-specific transcription factors. In contrast, gene expression of KCOT indicates differentiation toward keratinocytes.
Acquisition of Politeness Markers in an EFL Context: Impact of Input Enhancement and Output Tasks
Authors: Tajeddin Zia , Pezeshki Maryam
Published: November 2014

Although politeness markers are frequently used in written and spoken communication, pragmatic studies have not sufficiently explored the instruction of such markers to English as a foreign language (EFL) learners who lack sufficient opportunity to communicate with native speakers to acquire them in the context of use. Ignoring politeness as a subject of instruction could be due to the hypothesis that politeness is ingrained in the culture of its use and hence cannot be taught to EFL learners. To investigate this hypothesis, politeness markers proposed by House and Kasper (1981) in their politeness framework were used as the point of departure to teach these markers to two groups of EFL students using film-driven input-enhancement tasks and output tasks. The results of the study revealed the beneficial effect of teaching politeness markers through the two tasks. Whereas the input-enhancement group improved significantly in their comprehension of politeness markers, the output group manifested more gains in their production of these markers. Findings from this study have implications for interlanguage pragmatic instruction, suggesting that politeness is teachable and that different instructional tasks bring about different effects on the production and comprehension of politeness markers.
Examining How Teachers’ Beliefs about Communicative Language Teaching Affect Their Instructional and Assessment Practices: A Qualitative Study of EFL University Instructors in Colombia
Authors: Kim Ah-Young Alicia
Published: November 2014

Although there has been a plethora of research on how Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) has been implemented in instruction, few have examined how teacher’s beliefs about CLT affects assessment of their students and peers. Thus, this study examined how English as a foreign language (EFL) instructors’ teaching beliefs affected not only their instruction but also assessment practices. Nine EFL university instructors from Colombia first completed a teaching beliefs survey, designed to examine how beliefs about CLT influence instruction and assessment. They also completed a peer evaluation form, which was used to understand how they evaluated other teachers’ EFL lessons. In addition, three instructors (1) participated in a semi-formal interview to further discuss their beliefs about CLT and instructional practices, and (2) submitted tests they had previously developed to evaluate their students. Data were analyzed qualitatively and highlighted the specific challenges instructors experienced in implementing CLT into their instruction and assessment. Study findings provide practical implications for employing CLT in Colombian university settings.
Time Matters
Authors: Aybek Can M.
Published: November 2014

This article presents selected results from the analysis of marriage migration processes from Turkey to Germany, based on fieldwork and interviews conducted with intraethnic transnational couples. The findings indicate that the relationships of these transnational couples are marked by specificities due to the spatial distance between them and the legislation regulating spousal immigration to Germany. The marriage rituals differ from local marriages as the temporal spacing of events is adapted to the steps that have to be taken in order to obtain a family unification visa. The period during which the marriage migrant attends a language course in Turkey to prepare for the obligatory exam is particularly stressful. By combining the analysis of temporal aspects of marriage processes with perceptions and evaluations of individuals who are engaged in these relationships, the article provides a fine-grained picture of the dynamics of transnational intimate relationships in the premigration period.
Long-distance wh-movement and long-distance wh-movement avoidance in L2 English: Evidence from French and Bulgarian speakers
Authors: Slavkov Nikolay
Published: November 2014

This article investigates spoken productions of complex questions with long-distance wh-movement in the L2 English of speakers whose first language is (Canadian) French or Bulgarian. Long-distance wh-movement is of interest as it can be argued that it poses difficulty in acquisition due to its syntactic complexity and related high processing load. Adopting the derivational complexity hypothesis, which has so far been applied to long-distance (LD) wh-movement in L1 acquisition and child second language acquisition, I argue that adult L2 learners also show evidence that questions with LD wh-movement are often replaced by alternative utterances with lower derivational complexity. I propose that such utterances, which are sometimes of equivalent length and with similar meaning to the targeted LD wh-structures, are avoidance strategies used by the learners as an intermediate acquisition resource. That is, such strategies are used as an escape-hatch from the derivational complexity of LD wh-movement. Overall, the results of this research indicate that the link between the number and complexity of derivational steps in a given structure is a fruitful area with strong potential in the second language acquisition field.
Impact of dual-energy CT prior to radioembolization (RE)
Authors: Altenbernd Jens-Christian , von der Stein Ilka , Wetter Axel , Nagarajah James , Umutlu Lale , Heusner Till , Theysohn Jens M , Ringelstein Adrian , Forsting Michael , Lauenstein Thomas
Published: November 2014

Background

Depiction of the exact arterial liver anatomy as well as identifying potential extrahepatic non-target vessels is crucial for a successful preparation of radioembolization (RE).

Purpose

To compare the diagnostic impact of dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) to digital subtraction angiography prior to RE.

Material and Methods

DECT was applied in 46 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) prior to RE. Eighty kV DE as well as reconstructed 120 kV equivalent DE datasets were evaluated in comparison to correlating digital subtraction angiography (DSA) datasets. Two radiologists evaluated in consensus the delineation of liver arteries and extrahepatic non-target vessels utilizing a 4-point scale (4 = excellent delineation; 1 = non-diagnostic). In addition, the arterial vascularization of liver segment IV was evaluated and classified: signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR; liver arteries to adjacent liver tissue) were obtained via ROI analysis.

Results

Both imaging techniques (DECT, DSA) enabled high-quality assessment of all analyzed liver arteries. Out of the two CT datasets, 80 kVp-DE datasets offered superior delineation of the right gastric artery (3.5 ± 0.7 vs. 2.5 ± 0.5), the vascularization of segment IV (3.9 ± 0.2 vs. 3.3 ± 0.5) as well as potential extrahepatic non-target vessels (3.9 ± 0.1 vs. 3.3 ± 0.5). In accordance to the results of the qualitative analysis, 80 kVp-DE datasets also yielded higher SNR (34.84 vs. 29.31) and CNR (28.29 vs. 21.8) values in comparison to the 120 kVp datasets.

Conclusion

Eighty kVp DECT enables a significantly better assessment of the arteries of the upper abdomen for therapy planning in comparison to correlating 120 kVp datasets. This may allow for identification of potential extrahepatic non-target vessels and assessment of target volume for therapy planning prior to DSA.
Temporal Artery Thermometry to Detect Pediatric Fever
Authors: Moore Ann Hudson , Carrigan Julie Dagenhart , Solomon David M. , Tart Rebecca Creech
Published: November 2014

This research investigated effectiveness of temporal artery thermometry (TAT) to detect high rectal fever in children ≥91 days and ≤4 years old. Rectal temperature was initially evaluated immediately followed by TAT. As expected, the difference between mean rectal (38.05 ± .99 °C) and mean TA (37.55 ± .8 °C) temperatures in subjects ( N = 239) was significant ( p < .0001). Linear regression revealed TAT underestimated rectal thermometry with greater frequency at higher temperatures. This observation provides probable explanation for the disparity between these thermometry methods. A TAT sensitivity of 75% and specificity of 85% were determined for detecting high fever (39 °C)—a finding clinically unacceptable. In contrast, among the small number of injured subjects enrolled, TAT detected high rectal fever with 100% sensitivity and specificity. This finding, if confirmed, suggests TAT screening for well and injured children has potential for clinical practice by diminishing rectal measurements and their associated risks in the acute care and/or ambulatory practice setting.
Factors Increasing the Likelihood of Sole and Dual Charging of Women for Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Poon Julie , Dawson Myrna , Morton Mavis
Published: November 2014

Sole and dual charging of women for intimate partner violence (IPV) has risen in some Canadian and American jurisdictions since the implementation of pro-charging policies. Adding to the limited research within Canada by examining court cases from a small, Ontario city, sociodemographic and situational characteristics are assessed to determine if the context in which women were charged differs from that of men, or in which dual charges were laid. Women were more likely to be charged if they were younger, in legal or common-law relationships, and in rural jurisdictions. Dual charging was more likely among women in current and dating relationships.
Interest level in 2-year-olds with autism spectrum disorder predicts rate of verbal, nonverbal, and adaptive skill acquisition
Authors: Klintwall Lars , Macari Suzanne , Eikeseth Svein , Chawarska Katarzyna
Published: November 2014

Recent studies have suggested that skill acquisition rates for children with autism spectrum disorders receiving early interventions can be predicted by child motivation. We examined whether level of interest during an Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule assessment at 2 years predicts subsequent rates of verbal, nonverbal, and adaptive skill acquisition to the age of 3 years. A total of 70 toddlers with autism spectrum disorder, mean age of 21.9 months, were scored using Interest Level Scoring for Autism, quantifying toddlers’ interest in toys, social routines, and activities that could serve as reinforcers in an intervention. Adaptive level and mental age were measured concurrently (Time 1) and again after a mean of 16.3 months of treatment (Time 2). Interest Level Scoring for Autism score, Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule score, adaptive age equivalent, verbal and nonverbal mental age, and intensity of intervention were entered into regression models to predict rates of skill acquisition. Interest level at Time 1 predicted subsequent acquisition rate of adaptive skills (R2 = 0.36) and verbal mental age (R2 = 0.30), above and beyond the effects of Time 1 verbal and nonverbal mental ages and Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule scores. Interest level at Time 1 also contributed (R2 = 0.30), with treatment intensity, to variance in development of nonverbal mental age.
Creative interactions with data: using visual and metaphorical devices in repeated focus groups
Authors: Nind Melanie , Vinha Hilra
Published: November 2014

This article presents some of the emergent methods developed to fit a study of quality in inclusive research with people with learning disabilities. It addresses (i) the ways in which the methodology was a response to the need for constructive, transformative dialogue through use of repeated focus groups in a design interspersing dialogic and reflective spaces; and (ii) how stimulus materials for the focus groups involved imaginative and creative interactions with data. Particular innovations in the blending of narrative and thematic analyses and data generation and analysis processes are explored, specifically the creative use of metaphor as stimulus and the playful adaptation of I-poems from the Listening Guide approach as writing and performance. In reflecting on these methodological turns we also reflect on creativity as an interpretive lens. The paper is an invitation for further methodological dialogue and development.
Simple analysis of non-Markov models: A case study on heart transplant data
Authors: Murawska Magdalena , Rizopoulos Dimitris
Published: November 2014

In transplantation studies, often several response measurements are collected for patients while they are on the waiting list. In this settings it is often of primary interest to assess whether the available history of a patient can be used for predicting patient survival as well as further performance on the list. In this work, we use a multi-state model approach to analyze the performance of patients described by their urgency status that changes in time while waiting for a new organ. We use the pseudo-value approach introduced by Andersen et al. ( 2003 ) and apply it for the Aalen-Johansen estimator of the state occupation probabilities since the transition probabilities were found to depend on the history. This approach allows us to study the impact of baseline information on the occupation probabilities treating the dependence on the history as a nuisance. It was found that the previous state, the current state and time from the moment of entering the waiting list had an impact on the future performance of the patient. Depending on those, patients were more likely to come back to the particular status in which they were before, die or get a transplant. To address the problem of those competing events, a multinomial approach was used for the next state given the previous state observed.
Efficacy of Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy in Early Stroke Rehabilitation
Authors: Thrane Gyrd , Askim Torunn , Stock Roland , Indredavik Bent , Gjone Ragna , Erichsen Anne , Anke Audny
Published: November 2014

Background. There is limited evidence for the effects of constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) in the early stages of stroke recovery. Objective. To evaluate the effect of a modified CIMT within 4 weeks poststroke. Methods. This single-blinded randomized multisite trial investigated the effects of CIMT in 47 individuals who had experienced a stroke in the preceding 26 days. Patients were allocated to a CIMT or a usual care (control) group. The CIMT program was 3 h/d over 10 consecutive working days, with mitt use on the unaffected arm for up to 90% of waking hours. The follow-up time was 6 months. The primary outcome was the Wolf Motor Function test (WMFT) score. Secondary outcomes were the Fugl-Meyer upper-extremity motor score, Nine-Hole Peg test (NHPT) score, the arm use ratio, and the Stroke Impact Scale. Analyses of covariance with adjustment for baseline values were used to assess differences between the groups. Results. After treatment, the mean timed WMFT score was significantly better in the CIMT group compared with the control group. Moreover, posttreatment dexterity, as tested with the NHPT, was significantly better in the CIMT group, whereas the other test results were similar in both the groups. At the 6-month follow-up, the 2 groups showed no significant difference in arm impairment, function, or use in daily activities. Conclusions. Despite a favorable effect of CIMT on timed movement measures immediately after treatment, significant effects were not found after 6 months.
The presentation of police in everyday life: Police–press relations, impression management and the Leveson Inquiry
Authors: Mawby Rob C
Published: November 2014

In 2012 the Leveson Inquiry investigated relations between the police and the press, examining the routine systems and processes of police–press relations in the UK and, more specifically, the conduct of senior Metropolitan Police Service officers during an investigation into phone-hacking (Operation Caryatid). The Inquiry is notable in that it shone a light on a normally hidden policing function; it brought the backstage processes of police–media relations, part of police ‘image work’, to the frontstage area. This article considers the Leveson Inquiry and the data it collected as a case study of police impression management; it examines how the police sought to manage impressions about how they manage impressions. It takes a dramaturgical approach drawing on the work of Erving Goffman and Peter K Manning, combined with impression management concepts drawn from management and organisational studies. The article concludes that the identified impression management tactics used by different police ‘teams’ combined to protect the collective police image and to reinforce, for the present, the dominant position of the police in their relationship with the press.
Aspirin-induced increase in intestinal paracellular permeability does not affect the levels of LPS in venous blood of healthy women
Authors: Gnauck Anne , Lentle Roger G , Kruger Marlena C
Published: November 2014

The presence of subclinical levels of LPS from Gram-negative bacteria, also referred to as endotoxin, in the circulation may induce a pro-inflammatory immune response that leads to the development of obesity and insulin resistance. Recent data indicate that high-fat meals may elevate circulating levels of LPS. However, it is currently unclear how the LPS transits from the gut lumen to the general circulation. We determined whether aspirin-induced damage of the small intestinal mucosa, evidenced by an increase in the paracellular permeability, allows greater transit of LPS into the systemic circulation. The 3-h cumulative excretion of lactulose was significantly increased after the consumption of aspirin solution relative to that after the consumption of an equal volume of water in 15 healthy women (median after aspirin 0.09% of dose vs. median after water 0.03% of dose; P = 0.004). Dosage with aspirin also significantly increased the lactulose : mannitol ratio (median after aspirin 0.014 vs. median after water 0.005; P = 0.017). However, serum LPS levels after the consumption of the aspirin solution were not significantly different from those after consumption of the control (plain water). Further, there was no correlation between body fat content and circulating levels of LPS.
The Effect of Tourism Clusters on U.S. Hotel Performance
Authors: Peiró-Signes Angel , Segarra-Oña Maria-del-Val , Miret-Pastor Luis , Verma Rohit
Published: November 2014

A cluster is a geographical concentration of interrelated firms. Cluster theory states that the synergies created inside the cluster (by the interactions between firms that compete and those that collaborate) enhance the productivity and innovation of firms and therefore their economic performance. While manufacturing industries have been widely studied from the clustering perspective, service clusters and specifically touristic clusters have received less attention. In this paper, we identify U.S. touristic clusters using a concentration measure, the Location Quotient. Then we check whether hotels located in touristic clusters obtain higher economic results than those hotels located in areas where the level of touristic-related business concentration does not get the critical mass to consider it a cluster (instead of reducing their benefits due to the high level of competitors nearby). Our results find significant differences between the two sets of hotels. The effect is stronger for subsegments of hotels based on their star category, location, and management structure. Specifically, we demonstrate that the differences are more pronounced within luxury and upscale hotel categories and within chain-managed hotels. The differences are less important in resort and airport locations than in small-metro/town, urban, and suburban areas. These results have important location implications for managers. They also contribute to understanding that economies of agglomeration lead to benefits from being located closely and in highly concentrated industries. But there is still a lot of research needed to better understand the relations between cooperation and competition within touristic clusters and how these enhance the economic performance of hotels.
Prevention of rare diseases: how revolutionary techniques can help vulnerable individuals—the example of serogroup B meningococcal infection
Authors: McIntosh E. David , Carey Victor , Toneatto Daniela , Dull Peter , Wassil James
Published: November 2014

In countries with established programmes for vaccination of infants, toddlers and adolescents with meningococcal conjugate vaccines, serogroup B invasive meningococcal disease remains the major cause of septicaemia and meningitis in the paediatric and adolescent age groups. Novartis has developed a serogroup B meningococcal vaccine, 4CMenB, to meet this need. We reviewed all 4CMenB studies. The studies found 4CMenB to be highly immunogenic when administered in all schedules, with protective antibody levels (serum bactericidal antibody titres ≥4 or ≥5 with human complement, hSBA) against serogroup B strains expressing vaccine antigens in >95% of vaccinated cohorts. When antibody levels waned, all tested groups demonstrated booster responses. Although possibly an underestimation, the Meningococcal Antigen Typing System (MATS) technique predicts that global coverage of 4CMenB against all serogroup B strains is in the range 66% (Canada) to 91% (USA). The vaccine was found to be generally well tolerated, although local and systemic reactions, notably fever in infants, typical of many vaccines, were increased following concomitant administration of 4CMenB with routine vaccines. When tested, prophylactic paracetamol significantly decreased the frequency and severity of reactions in infants, with no clinically significant impact on immunogenicity of 4CMenB or concomitant routine vaccines. The vaccine is approved for use in the following age groups in the European Union (2 months+), Canada (2 months through 17 years), Australia (2 months+) and Chile (2 months+), following clinical evaluation in 4843 infants and toddlers, and 1712 adolescents and adults, in schedules including a three-dose (2, 3, 4 or 2, 4, 6 months) and a two-dose (6–11 months) infant series with a booster in the second year of life, a two-dose series in toddlers (12–23 months) and children (2–10 years) given 2 months apart (with a booster at least in the EU), and a two-dose series in adolescents (11–17 years) given 1–6 months apart. 4CMenB presents a solution to the unmet medical need of offering protection against serogroup B invasive meningococcal disease in all age groups above 2 months.
Gender dimorphism and age of onset in malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor preclinical models and human patients
Authors: Shurell Elizabeth , Tran Linh M , Nakashima Jonathan , Smith Kathleen B , Tam Brenna M , Li Yunfeng , Dry Sarah M , Federman Noah , Tap William D , Wu Hong , Eilber Fritz C
Published: November 2014

Background

Gender-based differences in disease onset in murine models of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) and in patients with Neurofibromatosis type-1-(NF-1)-associated or spontaneous MPNST has not been well studied.

Methods

Forty-three mGFAP-Cre+;Pten

loxp/+;LSL-K-ras

G12D/+ mice were observed for tumor development and evaluated for gender disparity in age of MPNST onset. Patient data from the prospectively collected UCLA sarcoma database (1974–2011, n = 113 MPNST patients) and 39 published studies on MPNST patients (n = 916) were analyzed for age of onset differences between sexes and between NF-1 and spontaneous MPNST patients.

Results

Our murine model showed gender-based differences in MPNST onset, with males developing MPNST significantly earlier than females (142 vs. 162 days, p = 0.015). In the UCLA patient population, males also developed MPNST earlier than females (median age 35 vs. 39.5 years, p = 0.048). Patients with NF-1-associated MPNST had significantly earlier age of onset compared to spontaneous MPNST (median age 33 vs. 39 years, p = 0.007). However, expanded analysis of 916 published MPNST cases revealed no significant age difference in MPNST onset between males and females. Similar to the UCLA dataset, patients with NF-1 developed MPNST at a significantly younger age than spontaneous MPNST patients (p < 0.0001, median age 28 vs. 41 years) and this disparity was maintained across North American, European, and Asian populations.

Conclusions

Although our preclinical model and single-institution patient cohort show gender dimorphism in MPNST onset, no significant gender disparity was detected in the larger MPNST patient meta-dataset. NF-1 patients develop MPNST 13 years earlier than patients with spontaneous MPNST, with little geographical variance.
Sepsis-induced lung inflammation is modulated by insulin
Authors: Filgueiras Luciano Ribeiro , Capelozzi Vera L , Martins Joilson O , Jancar Sonia
Published: November 2014

Background

We have previously shown that diabetic rats are more susceptible to sepsis, but that the Acute lung injury (ALI) secondary to sepsis is less intense than in non-diabetics. In the present study, we further investigated the ALI-secondary to sepsis in diabetic rats and the effect of insulin treatment.

Methods

Diabetes was induced in male Wistar rats by alloxan and sepsis by cecal ligation and puncture surgery (CLP). Some diabetic rats were given neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH) insulin (4 IU, s.c.) 2 h before CLP. Six h later, the lungs were examined for edema, cell infiltration and prostaglandin-E2 (PGE2) levels in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL).

Results

The results confirmed that leukocyte infiltration and edema were milder in diabetic rats with sepsis. After insulin treatment, the lung inflammation in diabetics increased to levels comparable to the non-diabetics. The BAL concentration of PGE2 was also lower in diabetics with sepsis, and increased after insulin treatment. Sepsis was followed by early fibroblast activation in the lung parenchyma, evaluated by increased transforming growth factor (TGF)-β and smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression, as well as an elevated number of cells with myofibroblasts morphology. These events were significantly lower in diabetic rats and increased after insulin treatment.

Conclusion

The results show that insulin modulates the early phase of inflammation and myofibroblast differentiation in diabetic rats.
A modified shape context method for shape based object retrieval
Authors: Madireddy Radhika Mani , Gottumukkala Pardha Saradhi Varma , Murthy Potukuchi Dakshina , Chittipothula Satyanarayana
Published: November 2014

The complexity in shape context method and its simplification is addressed. A novel, but simple approach to design shape context method including Fourier Transform for the object recognition is described. Relevance of shape context, an important descriptor for the recognition process is detailed. Inclusion of information regarding all the contour points (with respect to a reference point) in computing the distribution is discussed. Role of similarity checking the procedure details regarding the computation of matching errors through the alignment transform are discussed. Present case of shape context (for each point with respect to the centroid) descriptor is testified for its invariance to translation, rotation and scaling operations. Euclidean distance is used during the similarity matching. Modified shape context based descriptor is experimented over three standard databases. The results evidence the relative efficiency of the modified shape context based descriptor than that reported for other descriptor of concurrent interests.
Macrophage migration inhibitory factor is required for recruitment of scar-associated macrophages during liver fibrosis
Authors: Barnes Mark A , McMullen Megan R , Roychowdhury Sanjoy , Madhun Nabil Z , Niese Kathryn , Olman Mitchell A , Stavitsky Abram B , Bucala Richard , Nagy Laura E
Published: November 2014

Recruitment of peripheral monocytes to the liver is a key contributor to the response to injury. MIF can act as a chemokine and cytokine, regulating innate immune responses in many tissues and cell types. We hypothesized that MIF contributes to the progression of CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis by regulating recruitment of SAM. SAMs dynamically regulate HSC activation and ECM degradation. To gain insight into the role of MIF in progression of liver fibrosis, we investigated markers of fibrosis and immune responses after chronic CCl4 administration to female C57BL/6 and MIF−/− mice. Chronic CCl4 exposure increased activation of HSC in WT mice, indicated by increased expression of αSMA mRNA and protein, as well as mRNA for collagen 1α1; these responses were blunted in female MIF−/− mice. Despite lower activation of HSC in MIF−/− mice, accumulation of ECM was similar in WT and MIF−/−mice, suggesting a decreased rate of ECM degradation. Recruitment of SAMs was lower in MIF−/− mice compared with WT mice, both in their initial inflammatory phenotype, as well as in the later phase as proresolution macrophages. The decreased presence of resolution macrophages was associated with lower expression of MMP13 in MIF−/− mice. Taken together, these data indicate that MIF-dependent recruitment of SAMs contributes to degradation of ECM via MMP13, highlighting the importance of appropriate recruitment and phenotypic profile of macrophages in the resolution of fibrosis.
American Society of Clinical Oncology Clinical Expert Statement on Cancer Survivorship Care Planning
Authors: Mayer Deborah K. , Nekhlyudov Larissa , Snyder Claire F. , Merrill Janette K. , Wollins Dana S. , Shulman Lawrence N.
Published: November 2014

Once SCPs are adopted on a wider scale, their value for improving the process of survivorship care planning should be evaluated, and other questions regarding improved outcomes can be addressed by research and implementation studies.