bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Use of Harmonic Scalpel for Free Flap Dissection in Head and Neck Reconstructive Surgery
Authors: Albert Sebastien , Guedon Charles , Halimi Caroline , Cristofari Jean Pierre , Barry Beatrix
Published: May 2012

Surgeons conventionally use electrocautery dissection and surgical clip appliers to harvest free flaps. The ultrasonic Harmonic Scalpel is a new surgical instrument that provides high-quality dissection and hemostasis and minimizes tissue injury. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and advantages of the ultrasonic Harmonic Scalpel compared to conventional surgical instruments in free flap surgery. This prospective study included 20 patients who underwent head and neck reconstructive surgery between March 2009 and May 2010. A forearm free flap was used for reconstruction in 12 patients, and a fibular flap was used in 8 patients. In half of the patients, electrocautery and surgical clips were used for free flap harvesting (the EC group), and in the other half of the patients, ultrasonic dissection was performed using the Harmonic Scalpel (the HS group). The following parameters were significantly lower in the HS group compared to the EC group: the operative time of flap dissection (35% lower in the HS group), blood loss, number of surgical clips and cost of surgical materials. This study demonstrated the effectiveness of the Harmonic Scalpel in forearm and fibular free flap dissections that may be extended to other free flaps.
Chromium as an Environmental Pollutant: Insights on Induced Plant Toxicity
Authors: Oliveira Helena
Published: May 2012

In the past decades the increased use of chromium (Cr) in several anthropogenic activities and consequent contamination of soil and water have become an increasing concern. Cr exists in several oxidation states but the most stable and common forms are Cr(0), Cr(III) and Cr(VI) species. Cr toxicity in plants depends on its valence state. Cr(VI) as being highly mobile is toxic, while Cr(III) as less mobile is less toxic. Cr is taken up by plants through carriers of essential ions such as sulphate. Cr uptake, translocation, and accumulation depend on its speciation, which also conditions its toxicity to plants. Symptoms of Cr toxicity in plants are diverse and include decrease of seed germination, reduction of growth, decrease of yield, inhibition of enzymatic activities, impairment of photosynthesis, nutrient and oxidative imbalances, and mutagenesis.
Intraspecific and Intracolonial Variation in the Profile of Venom Alkaloids and Cuticular Hydrocarbons of the Fire AntSolenopsis saevissimaSmith (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Authors: Fox Eduardo Gonçalves Paterson , Pianaro Adriana , Solis Daniel Russ , Delabie Jacques Hubert Charles , Vairo Bruno Cunha , Machado Ednildo de Alcântara , Bueno Odair Correa
Published: May 2012

Fire ants are aggressive Neotropical ants that are extensively similar in general biology and morphology, making species identification difficult. Some fire ant species are top-rated pests spreading throughout the world by trade vessels. Many researchers attempted to sort between invasive and native species by using chemical characters, including patterns of venom alkaloids. The present study is the first to report intraspecific variation in some chemical characters, namely, cuticular hydrocarbons and venom alkaloids, within the Brazilian fire ant speciesSolenopsis saevissimaand also reports on within-nest variations among members of different castes. Two different haplotypes (cryptic species) ofS. saevissimawere clearly identified, one presenting a predominant combination of the venom alkaloidscis- andtrans-2-methyl-6-undecylpiperidine with the cuticular hydrocarbons C23, 3-Me-C23, 10-C25 : 1, C25, and 3-Me-C25, and the other a predominant combination ofcis- andtrans-2-methyl-6-tridecenylpiperidine with predominance of 12-C25 : 1, C25, 11-Me-C25, 3-Me-C25, 13-C27 : 1, C27, and 13-Me-C27. Intranest variations revealed that the proportions among these compounds varied sensibly among workers of different sizes, gynes, and males (no alkaloids were detected in the latter). Larva contained vestiges of the same compounds. The recorded chemical profiles are quite different from previous reports withS. saevissimasamples from São Paulo. The finds thus support other recent claims thatS. saevissimaincludes cryptic species; the study, moreover, adds the find that they can occur in the same geographical location.
Cell-Type-Specific Effects of Silibinin on Vitamin D-Induced Differentiation of Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells Are Associated with Differential Modulation of RXRα Levels
Authors: Wassermann Rina , Novik Victoria , Danilenko Michael
Published: May 2012

Plant polyphenols have been shown to enhance the differentiation of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells induced by the hormonal form of vitamin D3 (1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3; 1,25D). However, how these agents modulate 1,25D effects in different subtypes of AML cells remains poorly understood. Here, we show that both carnosic acid (CA) and silibinin (SIL) synergistically enhancd 1,25D-induced differentiation of myeloblastic HL60 cells. However, in promonocytic U937 cells, only CA caused potentiation while SIL attenuated 1,25D effect. The enhanced effect of 1,25D+CA was accompanied by increases in both the vitamin D receptor (VDR) and retinoid X receptor alpha (RXRα) protein levels and vitamin D response element (VDRE) transactivation in both cell lines. Similar increases were observed in HL60 cells treated with 1,25D + SIL. In U937 cells, however, SIL inhibited 1,25D-induced VDRE transactivation concomitant with downregulation of RXRα at both transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels. These inhibitory effects correlated with the inability of SIL, with or without 1,25D, to activate the Nrf2/antioxidant response element signaling pathway in U937 cells. These results suggest that opposite effects of SIL on 1,25D-induced differentiation of HL60 and U937 cells may be determined by cell-type-specific signaling and transcriptional responses to this polyphenol resulting in differential modulation of RXRα expression.
Racial Differences in the Use of Adjuvant Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer in a Large Urban Integrated Health System
Authors: Simon Michael S. , Lamerato Lois , Krajenta Richard , Booza Jason C. , Ruterbusch Julie J. , Kunz Sara , Schwartz Kendra
Published: May 2012

Background. Racial differences in breast cancer survival may be in part due to variation in patterns of care. To better understand factors influencing survival disparities, we evaluated patterns of receipt of adjuvant chemotherapy among 2,234 women with invasive, nonmetastatic breast cancer treated at the Henry Ford Health System (HFHS) from 1996 through 2005.Methods. Sociodemographic and clinical information were obtained from linked datasets from the HFHS, Metropolitan Detroit Cancer Surveillance Systems, and U.S. Census. Comorbidity was measured using the Charlson comorbidity index (CCI), and economic deprivation was categorized using a neighborhood deprivation index.Results. African American (AA) women were more likely than whites to have advanced tumors with more aggressive clinical features, to have more comorbidity and to be socioeconomically deprived. While in the unadjusted model, AAs were more likely to receive chemotherapy (odds ratio (OR) 1.22, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.02–1.46) and to have a delay in receipt of chemotherapy beyond 60 days (OR 1.68, 95% CI, 1.26–1.48), after multivariable adjustment there were no racial differences in receipt (odds ratio (OR) 1.02, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.73–1.43), or timing of chemotherapy (OR 1.18, 95 CI, 0.8–1.74).Conclusions. Societal factors and not race appear to have an impact on treatment delay among African American women with early breast cancer.
Endodontic Management of Mandibular First Molar with Middle Distal Canal: A Case Report
Authors: Venumuddala Vijay Reddy , Sridhar M. , Rajasekaran M. , Poorni Saravanan , Senthilkumaran Gnanaprakasam
Published: May 2012

The knowledge of variations in root canal morphology is critical for a successful endodontic treatment. This article presents the endodontic management of a unique case of mandibular molar with middle distal canal which is quite uncommon.
Osteochondral Avulsion Fracture of the Femoral Origin of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament in an 11-Year-Old Child
Authors: Pai Sunil Kumar , Aslam Pervez Nayef , Radcliffe Graham
Published: May 2012

Although tibial end avulsions of the anterior cruciate ligament are relatively common in clinical practice, avulsions of the femoral end of this ligament are by comparison rare. We present the case of an 11-year-old boy with a bony avulsion injury, which was presumed to have arisen from the tibial insertion of the anterior cruciate ligament but turned out instead to be an osteochondral avulsion fracture of the femoral origin. This unexpected finding that was not detected during preoperative workup resulted in the first attempt at surgical fixation being aborted. The need for a second planned definitive fixation procedure emphasises the importance of combining a thorough history and examination in association with appropriate imaging in the patient workup. The patient’s definitive operative treatment and outcome are described. Although rare, surgeons (and emergency room doctors) treating such patients should include femoral end avulsion injuries of the anterior cruciate ligament in the differential diagnosis of a child presenting with an acute haemarthrosis of the knee. Furthermore, once diagnosed, early onward referral to an experienced knee surgeon is advocated.
Integration between Primary Care and Mental Health Services in Italy: Determinants of Referral and Stepped Care
Authors: Rucci Paola , Piazza Antonella , Menchetti Marco , Berardi Domenico , Fioritti Angelo , Mimmi Stefano , Fantini Maria Pia
Published: May 2012

This study, carried out in the context of a collaborative care program for common mental disorders, is aimed at identifying the predictors of Primary Care Physician (PCP) referral to Community Mental Health Center (CMHC) and patterns of care. Patients with depression or anxiety disorders who had a first contact with CMHCs between January 1, 2007–December 31, 2009 were extracted from Bologna Local Health Authority database. A classification and regression tree procedure was used to determine which combination of demographic and diagnostic variables best distinguished patients referred by PCPs and to identify predictors of patterns of care (consultation, shared care, and treatment at the CMHC) for patients referred by PCPs. Of the 8570 patients, 57.4% were referred by PCPs. Those less likely to be referred by PCPs were living in the urban area, suffered from depressive disorder, and were young. As to the pattern of care, patients living in the urban area were more likely to receive shared care compared with those living in the nonurban area, while the reverse was true for consultation. Predictors of CMHC treatment were depression and young age. Prospective studies are needed to assess length, quantity, and quality of collaborative treatment for common mental disorder delivered at any step of care.
Positive Solutions of Eigenvalue Problems for a Class of Fractional Differential Equations with Derivatives
Authors: Zhang Xinguang , Liu Lishan , Wiwatanapataphee Benchawan , Wu Yonghong
Published: May 2012

By establishing a maximal principle and constructing upper and lower solutions, the existence of positive solutions for the eigenvalue problem of a class of fractional differential equations is discussed. Some sufficient conditions for the existence of positive solutions are established.
Phytocontact Dermatitis due to Mustard Seed Mimicking Burn Injury: Report of a Case
Authors: Yabanoglu Hakan , Akbulut Sami , Karakayali Feza
Published: May 2012

Mustard seeds have been used in traditional folk medicine as a stimulant, diuretic, and purgative and to treat a variety of ailments including peritonitis and neuralgia. Mustards are still used today in mustard plasters to treat rheumatism, arthritis, chest congestion, aching back, and sore muscles. To make a mustard plaster, mix equal parts of flour and powdered mustard and spread it as a paste on a doubled piece of soft cloth. Apply mustard plaster to the affected area for a maximum of 15 minutes. Prolonged application can result in burns to the skin and nerve damage. Skin lesions occur within hours after exposure, and there is no significant therapy procedure. This case report is about a patient with second-degree burn, occurred when a mixture including mustard seed was exposed to her skin in the pain therapy of the osteoarthritis in her left knee. There are no studies analyzing treatment of skin burns induced by mustard seed in the literature. While in this type of burns our experience is limited, we think that conservative approach should be first choice of treatment.
Diverse Functions of Pulmonary Collectins in Host Defense of the Lung
Authors: Ariki Shigeru , Nishitani Chiaki , Kuroki Yoshio
Published: May 2012

Pulmonary surfactant is a mixture of lipids and proteins that covers alveolar surfaces and keeps alveoli from collapsing. Four specific proteins have been identified in surfactant. Among them, two C-type lectins, surfactant proteins A and D (SP-A and SP-D), are known to be implicated in host defense and regulation of inflammatory responses of the lung. These host defense lectins are structurally characterized by N-terminal collagen-like domains and lectin domains and are called pulmonary collectins. They prevent dissemination of infectious microbes by their biological activities including agglutination and growth inhibition. They also promote clearance of microbes by enhancing phagocytosis in macrophages. In addition, they interact with the other pattern-recognition molecules, including Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and TLR-associated molecules, CD14 and MD-2, and regulate inflammatory responses. Furthermore, recent studies have demonstrated that these collectins modulate functions of neutrophil-derived innate immune molecules by interacting with them. These findings indicate that pulmonary collectins play critical roles in host defense of the lung.
Research on Fracture Toughness of C120 Ultra-High-Performance Concrete in Kingkey Financial Center Project
Authors: Ye Hao-Wen , Feng Nai-Qian , Ran Zhi-Wei , Lin Li-Xun , Ling-Hu Yan , Qi Shi-Kun , Dong Yi
Published: May 2012

By adding polypropylene fiber, fracture toughness of C120 ultra-high-performance concrete in Kingkey Financial Center project has been enhanced. The tests conducted by the Building Material Lab of the Civil and Water Conservancy Institute of Tsinghua University provided satisfactory results of mechanical property and fracture toughness of C120 ultra-high-performance concrete.
Exploration of New Electroacupuncture Needle Material
Authors: Lee Sanghun , Choi Gwang-Ho , Lee Chang Hoon , Kim Yu Kyoung , Lee Saebhom , Cho Sungjin , Yeon Sunhee , Choi Sun-Mi , Ryu Yeon-Hee
Published: May 2012

Background. Electro Acupuncture (EA) uses the acupuncture needle as an electrode to apply low-frequency stimulation. For its safe operation, it is essential to prevent any corrosion of the acupuncture needle.Objective. The aim of this study is to find an available material and determine the possibility of producing a standard EA needle that is biocompatible.Methods. Biocompatibility was tested by an MTT assay and cytotoxicity testing. Corrosion was observed with a scanning electron microscope (SEM) after 0.5 mA, 60 min stimulation. The straightness was measured using a gap length of 100 mm, and tensile testing was performed by imposing a maximum tensile load.Results. Phosphor bronze, Ni coated SS304, were deemed inappropriate materials because of mild-to-moderate cytotoxicity and corrosion. Ti-6Al-4V and SS316 showed no cytotoxicity or corrosion. Ti-6Al-4V has a 70 times higher cost and 2.5 times lower conductivity than SS316. The results of both straightness and tensile testing confirmed that SS316 can be manufactured as a standard product.Conclusion. As a result, we confirmed that SS316 can be used a new EA electrode material. We hope that a further study of the maximum capacity of low-frequency stimulation using an SS316 for safe operation.
Properties of Reaction Intermediates from Unzipping Nanotubes via the Diketone Formation: A Computational Study
Authors: Yumura Takashi , Kanemitsu Toshiyuki
Published: May 2012

We investigated properties of an armchair nanotube attached by specific numbers of diketone groups along the tube axis using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The results from DFT calculations show that multiple diketone attachments into an armchair nanotube cleave the CC bonds along the tube axis, forming a large hole. Then, the six‐membered rings surrounding the hole are planarized, and zigzag edges appear. Due to these geometrical changes, the functionalized armchair nanotubes exhibit properties similar to those in corresponding graphene ribbons with zigzag edges. For example, diketone‐attached nanotubes have a spin‐polarized ground state with frontier orbitals whose amplitudes are localized at diketone O atoms. As a consequence of the existence of the localized orbitals, unpaired electrons appear only on the diketone O atoms in an armchair nanotube.
The Genetics of Osteosarcoma
Authors: Martin Jeff W. , Squire Jeremy A. , Zielenska Maria
Published: May 2012

Osteosarcoma is a primary bone malignancy with a particularly high incidence rate in children and adolescents relative to other age groups. The etiology of this often aggressive cancer is currently unknown, because complicated structural and numeric genomic rearrangements in cancer cells preclude understanding of tumour development. In addition, few consistent genetic changes that may indicate effective molecular therapeutic targets have been reported. However, high-resolution techniques continue to improve knowledge of distinct areas of the genome that are more commonly associated with osteosarcomas. Copy number gains at chromosomes 1p, 1q, 6p, 8q, and 17p as well as copy number losses at chromosomes 3q, 6q, 9, 10, 13, 17p, and 18q have been detected by numerous groups, but definitive oncogenes or tumour suppressor genes remain elusive with respect to many loci. In this paper, we examine studies of the genetics of osteosarcoma to comprehensively describe the heterogeneity and complexity of this cancer.
Management of Agitation Following Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Is There a Role for Beta-Blockers?
Authors: Ibrahim Fayaz , Viswanathan Ramaswamy
Published: May 2012

Introduction. Stroke is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in the United States. About 20% of the stroke is hemorrhagic and about 50% of these is due to aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. A troublesome neuropsychiatric complication of subarachnoid hemorrhage is agitation/aggression.Case Presentation. A 45-year-old man with no prior psychiatric history, sustained subarachnoid hemorrhage. After initial stabilization for 2 days, he underwent craniotomy and clipping of anterior cerebral communicating artery aneurysm. Treatment was continued with labetalol, nimodipine, and levetiracetam. Beginning postoperative day 4, patient developed episodes of confusion and agitation/aggression. Switching of Levetiracetam to valproate did not show any improvement. Psychiatry team tried to manage him with intense nursing intervention and different medications like olanzapine, valproate, lorazepam, and haloperidol. However, patient continued to be agitated and aggressive. Switching from labetalol to metoprolol resulted in dramatic improvement within 3 days.Discussion. Antipsychotics and benzodiazepines are often not sufficiently effective in the control of agitation/aggression in patients with traumatic brain injury and similar conditions. Our case report and the literature review including a cochrane review suggests that beta-blockers may be helpful in this situation.
Controversies in the Treatment of Ingrown Nails
Authors: Haneke Eckart
Published: May 2012

Ingrown toenails are one of the most frequent nail disorders of young persons. They may negatively influence daily activities, cause discomfort and pain. Since more than 1000 years, many different treatments have been proposed. Today, conservative and surgical methods are available, which, when carried out with expertise, are able to cure the disease. Packing, taping, gutter treatment, and nail braces are options for relatively mild cases whereas surgery is exclusively done by physicians. Phenolisation of the lateral matrix horn is now the safest, simplest, and most commonly performed method with the lowest recurrence rate. Wedge excisions can no longer be recommended
New Exact Solutions to the KdV‐Burgers‐Kuramoto Equation with the Exp‐Function Method
Authors: Kim Jae-Myoung , Chun Changbum
Published: May 2012

Based on the characteristics of the truncated Painlevé expansion method and the Exp‐function method, new generalized solitary wave solutions are constructed for the KdV‐Burgers‐Kuramoto equation, which cannot be directly constructed from the Exp‐function method. This work highlights the power of the Exp‐function method in providing generalized solitary wave solutions of different physical structures.
Perianal Plaques of Cytomegalovirus in a Patient with Central Nervous System Lymphoma
Authors: Heysell Scott K. , Wispelwey Brian
Published: May 2012

Cutaneous manifestations of cytomegalovirus (CMV) in patients without human immunodeficiency virus remain rare. Perianal CMV may be observed due to periodic fecal shedding but may be confused for other pathogens, and definitive diagnosis requires histopathologic examination. An instructive case is described, and the literature reviewed.
On Generalized Bazilevic Functions Related with Conic Regions
Authors: Noor Khalida Inayat , Yousaf Kamran
Published: May 2012

We define and study some generalized classes of Bazilevic functions associated with convex domains. These convex domains are formed by conic regions which are included in the right half plane. Such results as inclusion relationships and integral‐preserving properties are proved. Some interesting special cases of the main results are also pointed out.
Proline Oxidase Promotes Tumor Cell Survival in Hypoxic Tumor Microenvironments
Authors: Liu Wei , Glunde Kristine , Bhujwalla Zaver M. , Raman Venu , Sharma Anit , Phang James M.
Published: May 2012

Proline is a readily released stress substrate that can be metabolized by proline oxidase (POX) to generate either reactive oxygen species (ROS) to induce apoptosis or autophagy or ATP during times of nutrient stress. However, the contribution of proline metabolism to tumorigenesis in hypoxic microenvironments has not been explored. In this study, we investigated the different functions of POX under hypoxia and glucose depletion. We found that hypoxia induced POX expression in cancer cells in vitro and that POX upregulation colocalized with hypoxic tissues in vivo. In addition, the combination of hypoxia and low glucose showed additive effects on POX expression. Similar to conditions of low glucose, hypoxia-mediated POX induction was dependent on AMP-activated protein kinase activation but was independent of HIF-1α and HIF-2α. Under low-glucose and combined low-glucose and hypoxic conditions, proline catabolized by POX was used preferentially for ATP production, whereas under hypoxia, POX mediated autophagic signaling for survival by generating ROS. Although the specific mechanism was different for hypoxia and glucose deprivation, POX consistently contributed to tumor cell survival under these conditions. Together, our findings offer new insights into the metabolic reprogramming of tumor cells present within a hostile microenvironment and suggest that proline metabolism is a potential target for cancer therapeutics. Cancer Res; 72(14); 3677–86. ©2012 AACR.
Brachyury, a Driver of the Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition, Is Overexpressed in Human Lung Tumors: An Opportunity for Novel Interventions against Lung Cancer
Authors: Roselli Mario , Fernando Romaine I. , Guadagni Fiorella , Spila Antonella , Alessandroni Jhessica , Palmirotta Raffaele , Costarelli Leopoldo , Litzinger Mary , Hamilton Duane , Huang Bruce , Tucker Joanne , Tsang Kwong-Yok , Schlom Jeffrey , Palena Claudia
Published: May 2012

Purpose: The epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is emerging as a critical factor for the progression and metastasis of carcinomas, as well as drug resistance. The T-box transcription factor Brachyury has been recently characterized as a driver of EMT in human carcinoma cells. The purpose of this study was to characterize Brachyury as a potential target for lung cancer therapy.

Experimental Design: The expression of Brachyury was evaluated by PCR and by immunohistochemistry in human lung tumors and adult normal tissues. Brachyury gene copy number and promoter methylation status were analyzed in tumor tissues with various levels of Brachyury expression. Lung carcinoma cells' susceptibility to T-cell lysis and EGF receptor (EGFR) kinase inhibition were also evaluated relative to the levels of Brachyury.

Results: Our results showed Brachyury protein expression in 41% of primary lung carcinomas, including 48% of adenocarcinomas and 25% of squamous cell carcinomas. With the exception of normal testis and some thyroid tissues, the majority of normal tissues evaluated in this study were negative for the expression of Brachyury protein. Brachyury-specific T cells could lyse Brachyury-positive tumors and the level of Brachyury corresponded to resistance of tumor cells to EGFR kinase inhibition.

Conclusion: We hypothesize that the elimination of Brachyury-positive tumor cells may be able to prevent and/or diminish tumor dissemination and the establishment of metastases. The ability of Brachyury-specific T-cell lines to lyse Brachyury-positive tumor cells, in vitro, supports the development of Brachyury-based immunotherapeutic approaches for the treatment of lung cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 18(14); 3868–79. ©2012 AACR.
The Outgrowth of Micrometastases Is Enabled by the Formation of Filopodium-like Protrusions
Authors: Shibue Tsukasa , Brooks Mary W. , Inan M. Fatih , Reinhardt Ferenc , Weinberg Robert A.
Published: May 2012

Disseminated cancer cells that have extravasated into the tissue parenchyma must interact productively with its extracellular matrix components to survive, proliferate, and form macroscopic metastases. The biochemical and cell biologic mechanisms enabling this interaction remain poorly understood. We find that the formation of elongated integrin β1–containing adhesion plaques by cancer cells that have extravasated into the lung parenchyma enables the proliferation of these cells via activation of focal adhesion kinase. These plaques originate in and appear only after the formation of filopodium-like protrusions (FLP) that harbor integrin β1 along their shafts. The cytoskeleton-regulating proteins Rif and mDia2 contribute critically to the formation of these protrusions and thereby enable the proliferation of extravasated cancer cells. Hence, the formation of FLPs represents a critical rate-limiting step for the subsequent development of macroscopic metastases.

Significance: Although the mechanisms of metastatic dissemination have begun to be uncovered, those involved in the establishment of extravasated cancer cells in foreign tissue microenvironments remained largely obscure. We have studied the behavior of recently extravasated cancer cells in the lungs and identified a series of cell biologic processes involving the formation of filopodium-like protrusions and the subsequent development of elongated, mature adhesion plaques, which contribute critically to the rapid proliferation of the micrometastatic cells and thus are prerequisites to the eventual lung colonization by these cells. Cancer Discov; 2(8); 706–21. ©2012 AACR.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 653.
β-Adrenergic Receptor Stimulation Transactivates Protease-Activated Receptor 1 via Matrix Metalloproteinase 13 in Cardiac Cells
Authors: Jaffré Fabrice , Friedman Alan E. , Hu Zhaoyang , Mackman Nigel , Blaxall Burns C.
Published: May 2012

Background—

Chronic β-adrenergic receptor (β-AR) overstimulation, a hallmark of heart failure, is associated with increased cardiac expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). MMP-1 has been shown to cleave and activate the protease-activated receptor 1 (PAR1) in noncardiac cells. In the present study, we hypothesized that β-AR stimulation would result in MMP-dependent PAR1 transactivation in cardiac cells.

Methods and Results—

β-AR stimulation of neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (NRVMs) or cardiac fibroblasts with isoproterenol transduced with an alkaline phosphatase–tagged PAR1 elicited a significant increase in alkaline phosphatase–PAR1 cleavage. This isoproterenol-dependent cleavage was significantly reduced by the broad-spectrum MMP inhibitor GM6001. Importantly, specific MMP-13 inhibitors also decreased alkaline phosphatase–PAR1 cleavage in isoproterenol-stimulated NRVMs, as well as in NRVMs stimulated with conditioned medium from isoproterenol-stimulated cardiac fibroblasts. Moreover, we found that recombinant MMP-13 stimulation cleaved alkaline phosphatase–PAR1 in NRVMs at DPRS
42
↓
43
FLLRN. This also led to the activation of the ERK1/2 pathway through Gαq in NRVMs and via the Gαq/ErbB receptor pathways in cardiac fibroblasts. MMP-13 elicited similar levels of ERK1/2 activation but lower levels of generation of inositol phosphates in comparison to thrombin. Finally, we demonstrated that either PAR1 genetic ablation or pharmacological inhibition of MMP-13 prevented isoproterenol-dependent cardiac dysfunction in mice.

Conclusions—

In this study, we demonstrate that β-AR stimulation leads to MMP-13 transactivation of PAR1 in both cardiac fibroblasts and cardiomyocytes and that this likely contributes to pathological activation of Gαq and ErbB receptor–dependent pathways in the heart. We propose that this mechanism may underlie the development of β-AR overstimulation–dependent cardiac dysfunction.
Clinical Significance of Ankle Systolic Blood Pressure Following Exercise in Assessing Calf Muscle Tissue Ischemia in Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Khurana Aman , Stoner Julie A. , Whitsett Thomas L. , Rathbun Suman , Montgomery Polly S. , Gardner Andrew W.
Published: May 2012

Our primary objective assessed whether a decline in ankle systolic blood pressure (SBP) to less than 50 mm Hg after treadmill exercise is associated with lower extremity ischemia, as measured by calf muscle hemoglobin oxygen saturation (StO2). Eighty-four patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) completed a treadmill test. Ankle SBP <50 mm Hg following exercise was observed in only 49% (group 1), whereas 51% had ankle SBP ≥50 mm Hg (group 2). No group differences were observed for the decline in calf muscle StO2 to a minimum value (group 1: 18 ± 21%, group 2: 20 ± 20%; P = .60) and for the time to reach minimum StO2 (group 1: 224 ± 251 seconds, group 2: 284 ± 283 seconds; P = .30). Requirement of ankle SBP to decrease below 50 mm Hg after exercise has little clinical significance for assessing ischemia in calf muscle of patients with PAD limited by intermittent claudication.
Shopping Around for Theories for Counseling Psychology Practice
Authors: Hill Clara E.
Published: May 2012

Three psychotherapy theories are summarized and critiqued for their applicability to counseling psychology. The lack of attention to psychodynamic and experiential theories in the special section and the lack of theorizing by counseling psychologists in general are lamented. A plea is made for encouraging counseling psychologists to construct more theories and to search for the mechanisms of change in psychotherapy.
Using Multisensory Cues to Facilitate Air Traffic Management
Authors: Ngo Mary K. , Pierce Russell S. , Spence Charles
Published: May 2012

Objective:

In the present study, we sought to investigate whether auditory and tactile cuing could be used to facilitate a complex, real-world air traffic management scenario.

Background:

Auditory and tactile cuing provides an effective means of improving both the speed and accuracy of participants’ performance in a variety of laboratory-based visual target detection and identification tasks.

Method:

A low-fidelity air traffic simulation task was used in which participants monitored and controlled aircraft. The participants had to ensure that the aircraft landed or exited at the correct altitude, speed, and direction and that they maintained a safe separation from all other aircraft and boundaries. The performance measures recorded included en route time, handoff delay, and conflict resolution delay (the performance measure of interest). In a baseline condition, the aircraft in conflict was highlighted in red (visual cue), and in the experimental conditions, this standard visual cue was accompanied by a simultaneously presented auditory, vibrotactile, or audiotactile cue.

Results:

Participants responded significantly more rapidly, but no less accurately, to conflicts when presented with an additional auditory or audiotactile cue than with either a vibrotactile or visual cue alone.

Conclusion:

Auditory and audiotactile cues have the potential for improving operator performance by reducing the time it takes to detect and respond to potential visual target events.

Application:

These results have important implications for the design and use of multisensory cues in air traffic management.
Investigation on tungsten inert gas welding of in situ Al-15 and 20 Mg2Si composites with an Al-Si filler
Authors: Jahangiri Amirreza , Idris Mohd Hasbullah , Farahany Saeed
Published: May 2012

The feasibility of joining an in situ Al-Mg2Si composite through the process of tungsten inert gas welding is investigated in this study. The study uses an in situ metal matrix composite reinforced with two different particulate percentages, namely 15 wt.% and 20 wt.% Mg2Si. Welding current was adjusted at five different values between 80 and 100 amp. When joint integrity was examined under an optical microscope, three areas distinct from the parent metal were identified in the weldment region. Tension and micro-hardness tests were subsequently performed to determine the mechanical properties of the joints. The results of the micro-hardness tests correlate with those of the microstructural analyses. Joints welded with a welding current in the range of 80–85 amp displayed the highest degree of micro-hardness, with the low heat input even providing higher weld strength and integrity. The fracture produced in the welded specimens was in the base metal matrix composite, indicating a strong interface between the base metal matrix composite and the weld. It can be concluded that the tungsten inert gas welding process is very promising for the welding of in situ Al-Mg2Si metal matrix composites.
Cultural Values and Group-Related Attitudes
Authors: Schiefer David
Published: May 2012

This article argues that individuals’ attitudes toward members of other groups are at least partly shaped by the cultural environment in which the individuals live. Based on the theory of cultural values by Schwartz, it was tested whether cross-country differences in cultural value preferences can explain individual differences in negative group-related attitudes. Furthermore, the present article postulates that individuals with a migration background are less strongly guided by the cultural values of the society in which they live, because they are additionally exposed to cultural values originating from their heritage culture. Samples from 24 countries that were part of the fourth wave of the European Social Survey were examined. Cultural values were assessed using the Portrait Value Questionnaire. Group-related attitudes were operationalized through an index of attitudes toward four different groups. Analyses of hierarchical linear models supported the hypotheses: Participants’ degree of negative group-related attitudes varied as a function of the cultural values inherent in the individuals’ countries. Moreover, weaker effects were found for individuals with migration background compared to individuals without migration background, especially for first-generation immigrants and immigrants from culturally more distant countries. Moreover, country-level cultural values were found to moderate the relationship of individual education and income level with group-related attitudes. Results are discussed with regard to their contribution to the literature on acculturation and with regard to the validity of Schwartz’s cultural value theory.
Perceptual Confusions of American-English Vowels and Consonants by Native Arabic Bilinguals
Authors: Shafiro Valeriy , Levy Erika S. , Khamis-Dakwar Reem , Kharkhurin Anatoliy
Published: May 2012

This study investigated the perception of American-English (AE) vowels and consonants by young adults who were either (a) early Arabic-English bilinguals whose native language was Arabic or (b) native speakers of the English dialects spoken in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where both groups were studying. In a closed-set format, participants were asked to identify 12 AE vowels presented in /hVd/ context and 20 AE consonants (C) in three vocalic contexts: /ɑCɑ/, /iCi/, and /uCu/. Both native Arabic and native English groups demonstrated high accuracy in identification of vowels (70 and 80% correct, respectively) and consonants (94 and 95% correct, respectively). For both groups, the least-accurately identified vowels were /ɑ/, /ɔ/, /æ/, while most consonant errors were found for /ð/, which was most frequently confused with /v/. However, for both groups, identification of /ð/ was vocalic-context dependent, with most errors occurring in /iCi/ context and fewest errors occurring in /uCu/ context. Lack of significant group differences suggests that speech sound identification patterns, including phonetic context effects for /ð/, were influenced more by the local English dialects than by listeners’ Arabic language background. The findings also demonstrate consistent perceptual error patterns among listeners despite considerable variation in their native and second language dialectal backgrounds.
(Implicitly) Judging a Book by Its Cover
Authors: Shariff Azim F. , Tracy Jessica L. , Markusoff Jeffrey L.
Published: May 2012

How do we decide who merits social status? According to functionalist theories of emotion, the nonverbal expressions of pride and shame play a key role, functioning as automatically perceived status signals. In this view, observers automatically make status inferences about expressers on the basis of these expressions, even when contradictory contextual information about the expressers’ status is available. In four studies, the authors tested whether implicit and explicit status perceptions are influenced by pride and shame expressions even when these expressions’ status-related messages are contradicted by contextual information. Results indicate that emotion expressions powerfully influence implicit and explicit status inferences, at times neutralizing or even overriding situational knowledge. These findings demonstrate the irrepressible communicative power of emotion displays and indicate that status judgments can be informed as much (and often more) by automatic responses to nonverbal expressions of emotion as by rational, contextually bound knowledge.
Antimicrobial Agent, Tetracycline, Enhanced Upper Alimentary Tract Candida albicans Infection and Its Related Mucosal Proliferation in Alloxan-induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Sano Tomoya , Ozaki Kiyokazu , Kodama Yasushi , Matsuura Tetsuro , Narama Isao
Published: May 2012

Alloxan-induced diabetic rats showed proliferative changes in the forestomach, accompanied by chronic inflammation, and one lesion progress to squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) without distant metastasis. The authors demonstrated that these lesions might be caused by Candida albicans infection. Antimicrobial therapy, particularly tetracycline treatment, has been blamed for a reduction in the number of competing bacterial organisms, which is frequently mentioned as a cause of candidiasis. The objective of this study is to ascertain whether or not tetracycline treatment can accelerate early-onset of C. albicans infection and the proliferative changes in this diabetic model. Alloxan-induced diabetic rats were given chlorinated water (AL group) and tetracycline solution (0.1% during week 1 and 0.01% thereafter) as drinking water (AT group). They were sacrificed after 25 weeks of drinking the treated water. The infection rate with C. albicans in the AT group was significantly higher than in the AL group. The incidence and severity of the squamous cell hyperplasia were enhanced in the AT group compared to the AL group. The proliferative lesions were consistently accompanied by inflammation and C. albicans infection in both groups. SCC was detected in one case in the AT group. These findings demonstrate that tetracycline induces C. albicans infection and enhances forestomach proliferative lesions in alloxan-induced diabetic rats.
Evolution of cerebral perfusion techniques in type a aortic dissection surgery: a single center experience
Authors: Salah K , van Straten AHM , Soliman Hamad MA , ter Woorst JF , Tan MESH
Published: May 2012

Background:

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of using antegrade selective cerebral perfusion (ASCP) with moderate hypothermia on hospital mortality after surgery for acute type A aortic dissection (AAAD).

Methods:

Between January 1998 and December 2008, 142 consecutive patients were operated on for AAAD. Patients were divided into two subgroups: the cohort of patients operated on from January 1998 until December 2003 (without ASCP) (P1998-2003, n=64) and the cohort operated on from January 2004 until December 2008 (with ASCP)(P2004-2008, n=78).

Results:

The difference in hospital mortality was statistically significant (P1998-2003: 42.2%; P2004-2008: 14.1%, p<0.0005). Survival rates were 51.6±6.2% vs. 75.1±5.5% and 45.9±6.2% vs. 69.7±7.3% for one and four years, respectively (p=0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that ASCP was the only independent protective factor of hospital mortality (p=0.047).

Conclusion:

In patients operated on for AAAD, antegrade selective cerebral perfusion with moderate hypothermia is a significant factor in decreasing hospital mortality.
Study of the therapeutic effects of a hippotherapy simulator in children with cerebral palsy: a stratified single-blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: Herrero Pablo , Gómez-Trullén Eva M , Asensio Ángel , García Elena , Casas Roberto , Monserrat Esther , Pandyan Anand
Published: May 2012

Objective:

To investigate whether hippotherapy (when applied by a simulator) improves postural control and balance in children with cerebral palsy.

Design:

Stratified single-blind randomized controlled trial with an independent assessor. Stratification was made by gross motor function classification system levels, and allocation was concealed.

Subjects:

Children between 4 and 18 years old with cerebral palsy.

Interventions:

Participants were randomized to an intervention (simulator ON) or control (simulator OFF) group after getting informed consent. Treatment was provided once a week (15 minutes) for 10 weeks.

Main measures:

Gross Motor Function Measure (dimension B for balance and the Total Score) and Sitting Assessment Scale were carried out at baseline (prior to randomization), end of intervention and 12 weeks after completing the intervention.

Results:

Thirty-eight children participated. The groups were balanced at baseline. Sitting balance (measured by dimension B of the Gross Motor Function Measure) improved significantly in the treatment group (effect size = 0.36; 95% CI 0.01–0.71) and the effect size was greater in the severely disabled group (effect size = 0.80; 95% CI 0.13–1.47). The improvements in sitting balance were not maintained over the follow-up period. Changes in the total score of the Gross Motor Function Measure and the Sitting Assessment Scale were not significant.

Conclusion:

Hippotherapy with a simulator can improve sitting balance in cerebral palsy children who have higher levels of disability. However, this did not lead to a change in the overall function of these children (Gross Motor Function Classification System level V).
Privileged Biofuels, Marginalized Indigenous Peoples
Authors: Montefrio Marvin Joseph F.
Published: May 2012

Biofuels development has assumed an important role in integrating Indigenous peoples and other marginalized populations in the production of biofuels for global consumption. By combining the theories of commoditization and the environmental sociology of networks and flows, the author analyzed emerging trends and possible changes in institutions and behaviors brought about by the introduction of biofuels as a development option on ancestral lands. Using the Indonesian oil palm and the Philippine Jatropha experiences, the author argues that although there are efforts to integrate smallholder systems to the global integrated biofuels network, the effects of commoditization continue to undermine the more sustainable, less commoditized agricultural practices of Indigenous peoples. Indigenous peoples and their traditional agricultural practices are at risk of being either phased out from or eventually transformed by the global integrated biofuels network to accommodate large-scale, consolidated biofuel plantation systems. However, there are also indications that persistent criticisms of and enduring reforms in the global integrated biofuels network challenge the future of highly commoditized biofuels. This suggests that the coevolutionary trajectory of both highly commoditized biofuels and noncommoditized Indigenous agricultural practices remains uncertain.
Pharyngeal Odontoma in an Adult Walleye (Sander vitreus)
Authors: Coffee L. L. , Bogdanovic L. B. , Cushing T. L. , Bowser P. R.
Published: May 2012

An adult walleye ( Sander vitreus) was submitted to Cornell University for evaluation of a hard pale-tan pharyngeal mass attached to the gill arches. Dozens of hard white conical structures radiated from the surface. Microscopically, conical structures were identified as denticles and rested on plates of dysplastic orthodentine, cementum, and acellular bone. A diagnosis of compound odontoma was made based upon the presence of proliferative epithelial and mesenchymal odontogenic tissues that recapitulated tooth structures normally present on gill rakers. Odontomas are classified as hamartomas and typically develop in immature diphyodont mammals. The pharyngeal location and lifelong regeneration of teeth in fish, however, both qualify the present diagnosis in the pharyngeal region of an adult teleost. Ontogenic and morphologic differences between mammalian and piscine dentition and differentials for tooth-bearing tumors in fish are presented within the context of a developmental anomaly.