bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Performance Decomposition and Fixation of Dry Etching Exhaust Perfluoro-Compound Gases and Study of Their Mechanism
Authors: Hattori Kei , Osato Masaaki , Maeda Takeshi , Okumura Katsuya , Sekine Makoto , Hori Masaru
Published: October 2011

We report on the high-performance decomposition and fixation of perfluoro compounds (PFCs) exhausted from dry etching processes and their reaction mechanism with the fixation material prepared from Ca(OH)2 and Al(OH)3 mixture. Using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and other analysis methods, it was found that PFCs were successfully decomposed and fixated by the reaction only with calcium compounds, resulting in calcium fluoride (CaF2). Aluminum compounds existing very close to calcium compounds work as a catalyst so that the reaction progresses at much lower temperatures, in the range of 650 to 750 °C, compared with the direct decomposition by combustion. The reaction mechanism is discussed on the basis of the proposed microscopic reaction model. These results are useful for the development of more efficient abatement systems for the greenhouse gases in the exhaust of dry etching processes.
“Live high–train low” using normobaric hypoxia: a double-blinded, placebo-controlled study
Authors: Siebenmann Christoph , Robach Paul , Jacobs Robert A. , Rasmussen Peter , Nordsborg Nikolai , Diaz Victor , Christ Andreas , Olsen Niels Vidiendal , Maggiorini Marco , Lundby Carsten
Published: October 2011

The combination of living at altitude and training near sea level [live high–train low (LHTL)] may improve performance of endurance athletes. However, to date, no study can rule out a potential placebo effect as at least part of the explanation, especially for performance measures. With the use of a placebo-controlled, double-blinded design, we tested the hypothesis that LHTL-related improvements in endurance performance are mediated through physiological mechanisms and not through a placebo effect. Sixteen endurance cyclists trained for 8 wk at low altitude (<1,200 m). After a 2-wk lead-in period, athletes spent 16 h/day for the following 4 wk in rooms flushed with either normal air (placebo group, n = 6) or normobaric hypoxia, corresponding to an altitude of 3,000 m (LHTL group, n = 10). Physiological investigations were performed twice during the lead-in period, after 3 and 4 wk during the LHTL intervention, and again, 1 and 2 wk after the LHTL intervention. Questionnaires revealed that subjects were unaware of group classification. Weekly training effort was similar between groups. Hb mass, maximal oxygen uptake (VO2) in normoxia, and at a simulated altitude of 2,500 m and mean power output in a simulated, 26.15-km time trial remained unchanged in both groups throughout the study. Exercise economy (i.e., VO2measured at 200 W) did not change during the LHTL intervention and was never significantly different between groups. In conclusion, 4 wk of LHTL, using 16 h/day of normobaric hypoxia, did not improve endurance performance or any of the measured, associated physiological variables.
The intramuscular contribution to the slow oxygen uptake kinetics during exercise in chronic heart failure is related to the severity of the condition
Authors: Bowen T. Scott , Cannon Daniel T. , Murgatroyd Scott R. , Birch Karen M. , Witte Klaus K. , Rossiter Harry B.
Published: October 2011

The mechanism for slow pulmonary O2uptake (V̇o2) kinetics in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) is unclear but may be due to limitations in the intramuscular control of O2utilization or O2delivery. Recent evidence of a transient overshoot in microvascular deoxygenation supports the latter. Prior (or warm-up) exercise can increase O2delivery in healthy individuals. We therefore aimed to determine whether prior exercise could increase muscle oxygenation and speed V̇o2kinetics during exercise in CHF. Fifteen men with CHF (New York Heart Association I–III) due to left ventricular systolic dysfunction performed two 6-min moderate-intensity exercise transitions ( bouts 1 and 2, separated by 6 min of rest) from rest to 90% of lactate threshold on a cycle ergometer. V̇o2was measured using a turbine and a mass spectrometer, and muscle tissue oxygenation index (TOI) was determined by near-infrared spectroscopy. Prior exercise increased resting TOI by 5.3 ± 2.4% ( P = 0.001), attenuated the deoxygenation overshoot (−3.9 ± 3.6 vs. −2.0 ± 1.4%, P = 0.011), and speeded the V̇o2time constant (τV̇o2; 49 ± 19 vs. 41 ± 16 s, P = 0.003). Resting TOI was correlated to τV̇o2before ( R2= 0.51, P = 0.014) and after ( R2= 0.36, P = 0.051) warm-up exercise. However, the mean response time of TOI was speeded between bouts in half of the patients (26 ± 8 vs. 20 ± 8 s) and slowed in the remainder (32 ± 11 vs. 44 ± 16 s), the latter group having worse New York Heart Association scores ( P = 0.042) and slower V̇o2kinetics ( P = 0.001). These data indicate that prior moderate-intensity exercise improves muscle oxygenation and speeds V̇o2kinetics in CHF. The most severely limited patients, however, appear to have an intramuscular pathology that limits V̇o2kinetics during moderate exercise.
Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Agonists Induce MicroRNA-335 Expression and Inhibit Lung Metastasis of Estrogen Receptor Negative Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Zhang Shu , Kim KyoungHyun , Jin Un Ho , Pfent Catherine , Cao Huojun , Amendt Brad , Liu Xinyi , Wilson-Robles Heather , Safe Stephen
Published: October 2011

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) was initially identified as a receptor that bound 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) and related environmental toxicants; however, there is increasing evidence that the AHR is an important new drug target for treating multiple diseases including breast cancer. Treatment of estrogen receptor (ER)-negative MDA-MB-231 and BT474 breast cancer cells with TCDD or the selective AHR modulator 6-methyl-1,3,-trichlorodibenzofuran (MCDF) inhibited breast cancer cell invasion in a Boyden chamber assay. These results were similar to those previously reported for the antimetastic microRNA-335 (miR-335). Both TCDD and MCDF induced miR-335 in MDA-MB-231 and BT474 cells and this was accompanied by downregulation of SOX4, a miR-335-regulated (inhibited) gene. The effects of TCDD and MCDF on miR-335 and SOX4 expression and interactions of miR-335 with the 3′-UTR target sequence in the SOX4 gene were all inhibited in cells transfected with an oligonucleotide (iAHR) that knocks down the AHR, thus confirming AHR-miR-335 interactions. MCDF (40 mg/kg/d) also inhibited lung metastasis of MDA-MB-231 cells in a tail vein injection model, showing that the AHR is a potential new target for treating patients with ER-negative breast cancer, a disease where treatment options and their effectiveness are limited. Mol Cancer Ther; 11(1); 108–18. ©2011 AACR.
The Scaffolding Protein EBP50 Promotes Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation and Neointima Formation by Regulating Skp2 and p21
cip1
Authors: Song Gyun Jee , Barrick Stacey , Leslie Kristen L. , Bauer Philip M. , Alonso Veronica , Friedman Peter A. , Fiaschi-Taesch Nathalie M. , Bisello Alessandro
Published: October 2011

Objective—

The Ezrin-radixin–moesin–binding phosphoprotein 50 (EBP50) is a scaffolding protein known to regulate ion homeostasis in the kidney and intestine. Previous work showed that EBP50 expression increases after balloon injury in rat carotids. This study was designed to determine the role of EBP50 on vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) proliferation and the development of neointimal hyperplasia.

Methods and Results—

Wire injury was performed in wild type (WT) and EBP50 knockout (KO) mice. Two weeks after injury, neointima formation was 80% lower in KO than in WT mice. Proliferation of KO VSMC was significantly lower than WT cells and overexpression of EBP50 increased VSMC proliferation. Akt activity and expression of S-phase kinase protein2 decreased in KO cells resulting in the stabilization of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor, p21
cip1
. Consequently, KO cells were arrested in G
0
/G
1
phase. Consistent with these observations, p21
cip1
was detected in injured femoral arteries of KO but not WT mice. No differences in apoptosis between WT and KO were observed.

Conclusion—

EBP50 is critical for neointima formation and induces VSMC proliferation by decreasing S-phase kinase protein2 stability, thereby accelerating the degradation of the cell cycle inhibitor p21
cip1
.
Aging Enhances the Basal Production of IL-6 and CCL2 in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Song Yang , Shen Hua , Schenten Dominik , Shan Peiying , Lee Patty J. , Goldstein Daniel R.
Published: October 2011

Objective—

Increased circulating cytokine levels are a prominent feature of aging that may contribute to atherosclerosis. However, the role vascular cells play in chronic inflammation induced by aging is not clear. Here, we examined the role of aging on inflammatory responses of vascular cells.

Methods and Results—

In an ex vivo culture system, we examined the inflammatory response of aortas from young (2–4 months) and aged (16–18 months) mice under nonstimulatory conditions. We found that basal levels of interleukin-6 were increased in aged aortas. Aged aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) exhibited a higher basal secretion of interleukin-6 than young VSMC. Gene and protein expression analysis revealed that aged VSMC exhibited upregulation of chemokines (eg, CCL2), adhesion molecules (eg, intracellular adhesion molecule 1), and innate immune receptors (eg, Toll-like receptor [TLR] 4), which all contribute to atherosclerosis. Using VSMC from aged TL4
−/−
and Myd88
−/−
mice, we demonstrate that signaling via TLR4 and its signal adaptor, MyD88, are in part responsible for the age-elevated basal interleukin-6 response.

Conclusion—

Aging induces a proinflammatory phenotype in VSMC due in part to increased signaling of TLR4 and MyD88. Our results provide a potential explanation as to why aging leads to chronic inflammation and enhanced atherosclerosis.
Wnt Signaling Exerts an Antiproliferative Effect on Adult Cardiac Progenitor Cells Through IGFBP3
Authors: Oikonomopoulos Angelos , Sereti Konstantina-Ioanna , Conyers Frank , Bauer Michael , Liao Annette , Guan Jian , Crapps Dylan , Han Jung-Kyu , Dong Hanhua , Bayomy Ahmad F. , Fine Gabriel C. , Westerman Karen , Biechele Travis L. , Moon Randall T. , Force Thomas , Liao Ronglih
Published: October 2011

Rationale:

Recent work in animal models and humans has demonstrated the presence of organ-specific progenitor cells required for the regenerative capacity of the adult heart. In response to tissue injury, progenitor cells differentiate into specialized cells, while their numbers are maintained through mechanisms of self-renewal. The molecular cues that dictate the self-renewal of adult progenitor cells in the heart, however, remain unclear.

Objective:

We investigate the role of canonical Wnt signaling on adult cardiac side population (CSP) cells under physiological and disease conditions.

Methods and Results:

CSP cells isolated from C57BL/6J mice were used to study the effects of canonical Wnt signaling on their proliferative capacity. The proliferative capacity of CSP cells was also tested after injection of recombinant Wnt3a protein (r-Wnt3a) in the left ventricular free wall. Wnt signaling was found to decrease the proliferation of adult CSP cells, both in vitro and in vivo, through suppression of cell cycle progression. Wnt stimulation exerted its antiproliferative effects through a previously unappreciated activation of insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP3), which requires intact IGF binding site for its action. Moreover, injection of r-Wnt3a after myocardial infarction in mice showed that Wnt signaling limits CSP cell renewal, blocks endogenous cardiac regeneration and impairs cardiac performance, highlighting the importance of progenitor cells in maintaining tissue function after injury.

Conclusions:

Our study identifies canonical Wnt signaling and the novel downstream mediator, IGFBP3, as key regulators of adult cardiac progenitor self-renewal in physiological and pathological states.
B-Cell Aortic Homing and Atheroprotection Depend on Id3
Authors: Doran Amanda C. , Lipinski Michael J. , Oldham Stephanie N. , Garmey James C. , Campbell Kirsti A. , Skaflen Marcus D. , Cutchins Alexis , Lee Daniel J. , Glover David K. , Kelly Kimberly A. , Galkina Elena V. , Ley Klaus , Witztum Joseph L. , Tsimikas Sotirios , Bender Timothy P. , McNamara Coleen A.
Published: October 2011

Rationale:

B cells are abundant in the adventitia of normal and diseased vessels. Yet, the molecular and cellular mechanisms mediating homing of B cells to the vessel wall and B-cell effects on atherosclerosis are poorly understood. Inhibitor of differentiation-3 (Id3) is important for atheroprotection in mice and polymorphism in the human ID3 gene has been implicated as a potential risk marker of atherosclerosis in humans. Yet, the role of Id3 in B-cell regulation of atherosclerosis is unknown.

Objective:

To determine if Id3 regulates B-cell homing to the aorta and atheroprotection and identify molecular and cellular mechanisms mediating this effect.

Methods and Results:

Loss of Id3 in
Apoe
−/−
mice resulted in early and increased atherosclerosis. Flow cytometry revealed a defect in
Id3
−/−
Apoe
−/−
mice in the number of B cells in the aorta but not the spleen, lymph nodes, and circulation. Similarly, B cells transferred from
Id3
−/−
Apoe
−/−
mice into B-cell–deficient mice reconstituted spleen, lymph node, and blood similarly to B cells from
Id3
+/+
Apoe
−/−
mice, but aortic reconstitution and B-cell–mediated inhibition of diet-induced atherosclerosis was significantly impaired. In addition to retarding initiation of atherosclerosis, B cells homed to regions of existing atherosclerosis, reduced macrophage content in plaque, and attenuated progression of disease. The chemokine receptor CCR6 was identified as an important Id3 target mediating aortic homing and atheroprotection.

Conclusions:

Together, these results are the first to identify the Id3-CCR6 pathway in B cells and demonstrate its role in aortic B-cell homing and B-cell–mediated protection from early atherosclerosis.
Outdoor Air Pollution and Incidence of Ischemic and Hemorrhagic Stroke
Authors: Maheswaran Ravi , Pearson Tim , Smeeton Nigel C. , Beevers Sean D. , Campbell Michael J. , Wolfe Charles D.
Published: October 2011

Background and Purpose—

Evidence linking outdoor air pollution and incidence of stroke is limited. We examined effects of outdoor air pollution on the incidence of ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke at the population level focusing on middle-aged and older people.

Methods—

We used a small-area level ecological study design and a stroke register set up to capture all incident cases of first-ever stroke occurring in a defined geographical area in south London (948 census output areas) where road traffic contributes to spatial variation in air pollution. Population-weighted averages were calculated for output areas using outdoor nitrogen dioxide and PM
10
concentrations modeled at a 20-m resolution.

Results—

There were 1832 ischemic and 348 hemorrhagic strokes in 1995 to 2004 occurring among a resident population of 267 839. Mean (SD) concentration was 25.1 (1.2) μg/m
3
(range, 23.3–36.4 μg/m
3
) for PM
10
and 41.4 (3.0) μg/m
3
(range, 35.4–68.0 μg/m
3
) for nitrogen dioxide. For ischemic stroke, adjusted rate ratios per 10-μg/m
3
increase, for all ages, 40 to 64 and 65 to 79 years, respectively, were 1.22 (0.77–1.93), 1.12 (0.55–2.28), and 1.86 (1.10–3.13) for PM
10
and 1.11 (0.93–1.32), 1.13 (0.86–1.50), and 1.23 (0.99–1.53) for nitrogen dioxide. For hemorrhagic stroke, the corresponding rate ratios were 0.52 (0.20–1.37), 0.78 (0.17–3.51), and 0.51 (0.12–2.22) for PM
10
and 0.86 (0.60–1.24), 1.12 (0.66–1.90), and 0.78 (0.44–1.39) for nitrogen dioxide.

Conclusions—

Although there was no significant association between outdoor air pollutants and ischemic stroke incidence for all ages combined, there was a suggestion of increased risk among people aged 65 to 79 years. There was no evidence of increased incidence in hemorrhagic stroke.
Restricted Diffusion in Spinal Cord Infarction Demonstrated by Magnetic Resonance Line Scan Diffusion Imaging
Authors: Nogueira Raul G. , Ferreira Rafael , Grant P. Ellen , Maier Stephan E. , Koroshetz Walter J. , Gonzalez Ramon G. , Sheth Kevin N.
Published: October 2011

Background and Purpose—

We report on the use of line scan diffusion magnetic resonance imaging in the evaluation of spinal cord infarctions.

Methods—

Data on 19 patients with clinical findings consistent with spinal cord infarctions and abnormal findings on line scan diffusion imaging were reviewed. The Apparent Diffusion Coefficient (ADC) measurements for the normal spinal cord and for the areas of abnormality were calculated from trace ADC maps.

Results—

Restricted diffusion was found in all 19 patients. Absolute ADC values in the ischemic area ranged between 395.4 and 575.8×10
−6
mm
2
/s, with ADC ratios ranging between 39.4% and 57.4%.

Conclusions—

Line scan diffusion imaging is technically feasible and appears to be a reliable method to diagnose spinal cord infarction in the acute setting.
Potential of Early [
18
F]-2-Fluoro-2-Deoxy-D-Glucose Positron Emission Tomography for Identifying Hypoperfusion and Predicting Fate of Tissue in a Rat Embolic Stroke Model
Authors: Walberer Maureen , Backes Heiko , Rueger Maria A. , Neumaier Bernd , Endepols Heike , Hoehn Mathias , Fink Gereon R. , Schroeter Michael , Graf Rudolf
Published: October 2011

Background and Purpose—

Experimental stroke models are essential to study in vivo pathophysiological processes of focal cerebral ischemia. In this study, an embolic stroke model in rats was applied (1) to characterize early development of regional cerebral blood flow and metabolism with positron emission tomography (PET) using [
15
O]H
2
O and [
18
F]-2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose (FDG); and (2) to identify potential parameters for predicting tissue fate.

Methods—

Remote occlusion of the middle cerebral artery was induced in 10 Wistar rats by injection of 4 TiO
2
macrospheres. Sequential [
15
O]H
2
O-PET (baseline, 5, 30, 60 minutes after middle cerebral artery occlusion) and FDG-PET measurements (75 minutes after middle cerebral artery occlusion) were performed. [
15
O]H
2
O-PET data and FDG kinetic parameters were compared with MRIs and histology at 24 hours.

Results—

Regional cerebral blood flow decreased substantially within 30 minutes after middle cerebral artery occlusion (41% to 58% of baseline regional cerebral blood flow;
P
<0.001) with no relevant changes between 30 and 60 minutes. At 60 minutes, regional cerebral blood flow correlated well with the unidirectional transport parameter
K1
of FDG in all animals (
r
=0.86±0.09;
P
<0.001). Tissue fate could be accurately predicted taking into account
K1
and net influx rate constant
Ki
of FDG. The infarct volume predicted by FDG-PET (375.8±102.3 mm
3
) correlated significantly with the infarct size determined by MRI after 24 hours (360.8±93.7 mm
3
;
r
=0.85).

Conclusions—

Hypoperfused tissue can be identified by decreased
K1
of FDG. Acute ischemic tissue can be well characterized using
K1
and
Ki
allowing for discrimination between infarct core and early viable tissue. Because FDG-PET is widely spread, our findings can be easily translated into clinical application for early diagnoses of ischemia.
Fasudil Decreases Lesion Burden in a Murine Model of Cerebral Cavernous Malformation Disease
Authors: McDonald David A. , Shi Changbin , Shenkar Robert , Stockton Rebecca A. , Liu Feifei , Ginsberg Mark H. , Marchuk Douglas A. , Awad Issam A.
Published: October 2011

Background and Purpose—

Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are characterized by grossly dilated capillaries, associated with vascular leak and hemorrhage, and occur in sporadic or inherited (autosomal-dominant) forms with mutations in 1 of 3 gene loci (CCM 1, 2 or 3). We previously reported that the CCM1 protein (KRIT1) localizes to endothelial cell–cell junctions and loss of KRIT1 leads to junctional instability associated with activation of RhoA and its effector Rho kinase. Although Rho kinase inhibition has been proposed as potential therapy for CCM, there has been no demonstration of a therapeutic effect on CCM lesion genesis in vivo.

Methods—

Our recently generated a model of CCM1 disease (
Ccm1
+/−
Msh2
−/−
) was treated with the Rho kinase inhibitor fasudil (100 mg/kg/day administered in drinking water from weaning to 5 months of age), or placebo, and blindly assessed CCM lesion burden by systematic survey of animals' brains. For comparison, we also assessed therapeutic effect in previously described
Ccm2
+/−
Trp53
−/−
mice treated with the same dose and duration of fasudil and placebo.

Results—

Fasudil-treated
Ccm1
+/−
Msh2
−/−
mice had a significantly decreased prevalence of CCM lesions compared with placebo controls. Lesions in treated animals were smaller and less likely associated with hemorrhage, inflammation, and endothelial proliferation and exhibited decreased expression of Rho kinase activation biomarkers. A therapeutic effect was also documented in
Ccm2
+/−
Trp53
−/−
mice.

Conclusions—

This represents the first report of therapeutic benefit of pharmacological therapy in development and progression of CCMs and indicates that Rho kinase activation is a critical step in CCM lesion genesis and maturation.
Carotid Arterial Wall Characteristics Are Associated With Incident Ischemic Stroke But Not Coronary Heart Disease in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study
Authors: Yang Eric Y. , Chambless Lloyd , Sharrett A. Richey , Virani Salim S. , Liu Xiaoxi , Tang Zhengzheng , Boerwinkle Eric , Ballantyne Christie M. , Nambi Vijay
Published: October 2011

Background and Purpose—

Ultrasound measurements of arterial stiffness are associated with atherosclerosis risk factors, but limited data exist on their association with incident cardiovascular events. We evaluated the association of carotid ultrasound-derived arterial stiffness measures with incident coronary heart disease (CHD) and ischemic stroke in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study.

Methods—

Carotid arterial strain and compliance, distensibility and stiffness indices, pressure–strain, and Young elastic moduli were measured in 10 407 individuals using ultrasound. Hazard ratios for incident CHD (myocardial infarction, fatal CHD, coronary revascularization) and stroke in minimally adjusted (age, sex, center, race) and fully adjusted models (minimally adjusted model+diabetes, height, weight, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, tobacco use, systolic blood pressure, antihypertensive medication use, and carotid intima-media thickness) were calculated.

Results—

The mean age was 55.3 years. Over a mean follow-up of 13.8 years, 1267 incident CHD and 383 ischemic stroke events occurred. After full adjustment for risk factors and carotid intima-media thickness, all arterial stiffness parameters (carotid arterial strain hazard ratio [HR], 1.14 [95% CI, 1.02–1.28]; arterial distensibility HR, 1.19 [1.02–1.39]; stiffness indices HR, 1.14 [1.04–1.25]; pressure–strain HR, 1.17 [1.06–1.28]; Young elastic moduli HR, 1.13 [1.03–1.24]), except arterial compliance (HR, 1.02 [0.90–1.16], were significantly associated with incident stroke but not with CHD.

Conclusions—

After adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors, ultrasound measures of carotid arterial stiffness are associated with incident ischemic stroke but not incident CHD events despite that the 2 outcomes sharing similar risk factors.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00005131.
Pilot Safety Trial of Deferiprone in 10 Subjects With Superficial Siderosis
Authors: Levy Michael , Llinas Rafael
Published: October 2011

Background and Purpose—

Superficial siderosis is a neurodegenerative disease caused by toxic accumulation of hemosiderin on the surface of the brain and spinal cord for which there is no known effective treatment.

Methods—

Oral deferiprone, a lipid-soluble iron chelator with ability to cross the blood–brain barrier, at a dose of 30 mg/kg per day was tested for safety in an open pilot study in 10 subjects with superficial siderosis.

Results—

Over a 90-day period, deferiprone had no significant adverse effects on hematologic, liver, or neurological function. Ad hoc MRI assessments of the brain indicated a reduction in hemosiderin deposition in some subjects.

Conclusions—

Deferiprone proved safe in this small population of superficial siderosis subjects. There was MRI evidence of reduced hemosiderin deposition with deferiprone. Prospectively designed efficacy studies are necessary to determine the clinical efficacy of deferiprone in superficial siderosis.
Effects of Gender on the Phenotype of CADASIL
Authors: Gunda Bence , Hervé Dominique , Godin Ophelia , Bruno Martina , Reyes Sonia , Alili Nassira , Opherk Christian , Jouvent Eric , Düring Marco , Bousser Marie-Germaine , Dichgans Martin , Chabriat Hugues
Published: October 2011

Background and Purpose—

In the general population, migraine, cerebrovascular diseases, and vascular dementia differ in many aspects between men and women. CADASIL is considered a unique model to investigate migraine with aura, stroke, and dementia related to ischemic small vessel disease. This study aims to evaluate the effect of gender on the main clinical and neuroimaging characteristics of CADASIL.

Methods—

Cross-sectional data from 313 CADASIL patients including various clinical and cognitive scores and MRI parameters were compared between men and women, and between those younger and older than the median age of the population corresponding to the usual age of menopause (51 years).

Results—

At younger than 51 years, migraine with aura was 50% more prevalent in women and stroke was 75% more prevalent in men. After the fifth decade, men had higher National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale and Rankin scores than women and more severe executive dysfunction, although global cognitive scores were similar. Age at first stroke, the number of stroke events, and the prevalence of dementia and psychiatric symptoms did not differ between men and women. Brain volume was lower in men with a trend for a larger volume of lacunar infarcts.

Conclusions—

In CADASIL, migraine with aura is more frequent in women and stroke is more frequent in men before the age of menopause. This difference seems to vanish after this age limit but may result in a higher degree of cognitive impairment and cerebral atrophy in men at the late stage of the disease. The presumable role of ovarian hormones in these gender-related differences remains to be explored.
Gross Domestic Product and Health Expenditure Associated With Incidence, 30-Day Fatality, and Age at Stroke Onset
Authors: Sposato Luciano A. , Saposnik Gustavo
Published: October 2011

Background and Purpose—

Differences in definitions of socioeconomic status and between study designs hinder their comparability across countries. We aimed to analyze the correlation between 3 widely used macrosocioeconomic status indicators and clinical outcomes.

Methods—

We selected population-based studies reporting incident stroke risk and/or 30-day case-fatality according to prespecified criteria. We used 3 macrosocioeconomic status indicators that are consistently defined by international agencies: per capita gross domestic product adjusted for purchasing power parity, total health expenditures per capita at purchasing power parity, and unemployment rate. We examined the correlation of each macrosocioeconomic status indicator with incident risk of stroke, 30-day case-fatality, proportion of hemorrhagic strokes, and age at stroke onset.

Results—

Twenty-three articles comprising 30 population-based studies fulfilled the eligibility criteria. Age-adjusted incident risk of stroke using the standardized World Health Organization World population was associated to lower per capita gross domestic product adjusted for purchasing power parity (ρ=−0.661,
P
=0.027,
R
2
=0.32) and total health expenditures per capita at purchasing power parity (ρ=−0.623,
P
=0.040,
R
2
=0.26). Thirty-day case-fatality rates and proportion of hemorrhagic strokes were also related to lower per capita gross domestic product adjusted for purchasing power parity and total health expenditures per capita at purchasing power parity. Moreover, stroke occurred at a younger age in populations with low per capita gross domestic product adjusted for purchasing power parity and total health expenditures per capita at purchasing power parity. There was no correlation between unemployment rates and outcome measures.

Conclusions—

Lower per capita gross domestic product adjusted for purchasing power parity and total health expenditures per capita at purchasing power parity were associated with higher incident risk of stroke, higher case-fatality, a greater proportion of hemorrhagic strokes, and lower age at stroke onset. As a result, these macrosocioeconomic status indicators may be used as proxy measures of quality of primary prevention and acute care and considered as important factors for developing strategies aimed at improving worldwide stroke care.
Behavioral Metabolution: The Adaptive and Evolutionary Potential of Metabolism-Based Chemotaxis
Authors: Egbert Matthew D. , Barandiaran Xabier E. , Di Paolo Ezequiel A.
Published: October 2011

We use a minimal model of metabolism-based chemotaxis to show how a coupling between metabolism and behavior can affect evolutionary dynamics in a process we refer to as behavioral metabolution. This mutual influence can function as an in-the-moment, intrinsic evaluation of the adaptive value of a novel situation, such as an encounter with a compound that activates new metabolic pathways. Our model demonstrates how changes to metabolic pathways can lead to improvement of behavioral strategies, and conversely, how behavior can contribute to the exploration and fixation of new metabolic pathways. These examples indicate the potentially important role that the interplay between behavior and metabolism could have played in shaping adaptive evolution in early life and protolife. We argue that the processes illustrated by these models can be interpreted as an unorthodox instantiation of the principles of evolution by random variation and selective retention. We then discuss how the interaction between metabolism and behavior can facilitate evolution through (i) increasing exposure to environmental variation, (ii) making more likely the fixation of some beneficial metabolic pathways, (iii) providing a mechanism for in-the-moment adaptation to changes in the environment and to changes in the organization of the organism itself, and (iv) generating conditions that are conducive to speciation.
Biological Design Principles of Complex Feedback Modules in theE. coliAmmonia Assimilation System
Authors: Masaki Koichi , Maeda Kazuhiro , Kurata Hiroyuki
Published: October 2011

To synthesize natural or artificial life, it is critically important to understand the design principles of how biochemical networks generate particular cellular functions and evolve complex systems in comparison with engineering systems. Cellular systems maintain their robustness in the face of perturbations arising from environmental and genetic variations. In analogy to control engineering architectures, the complexity of modular structures within a cell can be attributed to the necessity of achieving robustness. To reveal such biological design, the E. coli ammonia assimilation system is analyzed, which consists of complex but highly structured modules: the glutamine synthetase (GS) activity feedback control module with bifunctional enzyme cascades for catalyzing reversible reactions, and the GS synthesis feedback control module with positive and negative feedback loops. We develop a full-scale dynamic model that unifies the two modules, and we analyze its robustness and fine tuning with respect to internal and external perturbations. The GS activity control is added to the GS synthesis module to improve its transient response to ammonia depletion, compensating the tradeoffs of each module, but its robustness to internal perturbations is lost. These findings suggest some design principles necessary for the synthesis of life.
Mutation Rate Matters Even When Optimizing Monotonic Functions
Authors: Doerr Benjamin , Jansen Thomas , Sudholt Dirk , Winzen Carola , Zarges Christine
Published: October 2011

Extending previous analyses on function classes like linear functions, we analyze how the simple (1+1) evolutionary algorithm optimizes pseudo-Boolean functions that are strictly monotonic. These functions have the property that whenever only 0-bits are changed to 1, then the objective value strictly increases. Contrary to what one would expect, not all of these functions are easy to optimize. The choice of the constant c in the mutation probability p(n)=c/n can make a decisive difference.

We show that if c<1, then the (1+1) EA finds the optimum of every such function in [Formula: see text] iterations. For c=1, we can still prove an upper bound of O(n3/2). However, for [Formula: see text], we present a strictly monotonic function such that the (1+1) EA with overwhelming probability needs [Formula: see text] iterations to find the optimum. This is the first time that we observe that a constant factor change of the mutation probability changes the runtime by more than a constant factor.
Reversed Spatial Asymmetries between El Niño and La Niña and Their Linkage to Decadal ENSO Modulation in CMIP3 Models
Authors: Yu Jin-Yi , Kim Seon Tae
Published: October 2011

This study examines preindustrial simulations from Coupled Model Intercomparison Project, phase 3 (CMIP3), models to show that a tendency exists for El Niño sea surface temperature anomalies to be located farther eastward than La Niña anomalies during strong El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events but farther westward than La Niña anomalies during weak ENSO events. Such reversed spatial asymmetries are shown to force a slow change in the tropical Pacific Ocean mean state that in return modulates ENSO amplitude. CMIP3 models that produce strong reversed asymmetries experience cyclic modulations of ENSO intensity, in which strong and weak events occur during opposite phases of a decadal variability mode associated with the residual effects of the reversed asymmetries. It is concluded that the reversed spatial asymmetries enable an ENSO–tropical Pacific mean state interaction mechanism that gives rise to a decadal modulation of ENSO intensity and that at least three CMIP3 models realistically simulate this interaction mechanism.
Short Dental Implants
Authors: Annibali S. , Cristalli M.P. , Dell’Aquila D. , Bignozzi I. , La Monaca G. , Pilloni A.
Published: October 2011

Growing evidence has suggested the utility of short dental implants for oral reconstructive procedures in clinical situations of limited vertical bone height. The aim of this review was to systematically evaluate clinical studies of implants < 10 mm in length, to determine short implant-supported prosthesis success in the atrophic jaw. Implant survival, incidence of biological and biomechanical complications, and radiographic peri-implant marginal bone loss were evaluated. Screening of eligible studies, quality assessment, and data extraction were conducted by two reviewers independently. Meta-analyses were performed by the pooling of survival data by implant surface, surgical technique, implant location, type of edentulism, and prosthetic restoration. Two randomized controlled trials and 14 observational studies were selected and analyzed for data extraction. In total, 6193 short-implants were investigated from 3848 participants. The observational period was 3.2 ± 1.7 yrs (mean ± SD). The cumulative survival rate (CSR) was 99.1% (95%CI: 98.8-99.4). The biological success rate was 98.8% (95%CI: 97.8-99.8), and the biomechanical success rate was 99.9% (95%CI: 99.4-100.0). A higher CSR was reported for rough-surfaced implants. The provision of short implant–supported prostheses in patients with atrophic alveolar ridges appears to be a successful treatment option in the short term; however, more scientific evidence is needed for the long term.
Rapid Automatized Naming and Immediate Memory Functions in Chinese Children Who Read English as a Second Language
Authors: Ding Yi , Guo Jian-Peng , Yang Ling-Yan , Zhang Dake , Ning Huan , Richman Lynn C.
Published: October 2011

This study examined reading performance of 102 Chinese Mandarin-speaking 4th graders in their second language (L2, English) as a function of performance in their first language (L1, Chinese). The results revealed that for Rapid Automatized Naming (RAN) and Rapid Alternating Stimulus (RAS) measures, the mean naming time decreased monotonically in high-achieving, average, and low-achieving readers. RAN and RAS differentiated poor readers from good and average readers but failed to differentiate between good and average readers. RAN deficits occurred in poor readers in both languages. Comparison of memory profiles revealed that patterns varied depending on the mode of stimulus presentation or response. Low-achieving readers performed poorly on a subtest involving visual components only and did relatively better on a subtest involving verbal components only. Poor readers in Chinese also encountered difficulties in learning English as a L2. RAN-character accounted for unique variance in two Chinese reading measures. RAN-letter explained unique variance in English mid-term reading grade. The unique variance captured by the Color Span Subtest 1 (visual-visual) was found in Chinese reading comprehension but not in English reading comprehension. Reading performance in L1 was predictive of reading performance in L2 and vice versa.
A Concise Overview of Penology and Penal Practice in Slovenia
Authors: Meško Gorazd , Fields Chuck , Smole Tomaž
Published: October 2011

Although Slovenia has one of the lowest incarceration rates in the world, there are not enough facilities to house the current inmate population, and prison overcrowding is becoming a serious problem in the country. This article addresses this issue, beginning with an in-depth history of penology and penal practices in Slovenia and concluding with suggestions to deal with this potentially disastrous situation. If the imprisonment rate in Slovenia does not decrease in the near future, or if Slovenia cannot create more capacity, prison overcrowding will grow beyond acceptable standards. The present situation in Slovene prisons calls for a multidisciplinary research and cost/benefit analysis. The Slovenian prison administration is challenged by its budget and staff resources. However, it is argued that the problem goes beyond this capacity and requires a serious reconsideration of penal policy, criminal court practice, and parole committee practices as well. It is also necessary to emphasize that Slovenia is the only country in the European Union without a probation service system.
Low-income Families and Coping through Brands: Inclusion or Stigma?
Authors: Hamilton Kathy
Published: October 2011

This article highlights the paradoxical coping strategies employed by low-income families. Based on in-depth interviews with 30 families in the UK, it is demonstrated that individuals initiate strategies to avoid the social effects of stigmatization and alleviate threats to social identity. In particular, families engage in conspicuous consumption, with emphasis on ensuring children have access to the ‘right’ brands. This can be interpreted in two opposing ways. Low-income consumers, in particular single mothers, may be understood as coping within the challenging context of consumer culture to improve the standard of living for their families. However, drawing on underclass discourse surrounding ‘chav’ culture and single mothers, it is demonstrated that the coping strategies employed to achieve approval in fact fuel further stigmatization and instead of creating inclusion have the opposite outcome of exclusion and marginalization.
The Place of Religion in Public Life: School Ethos as a Lens on Society
Authors: Hemming Peter J
Published: October 2011

The place of religion in the English education system has always been an issue of debate, ever since the establishment of universal schooling around the turn of the 20th Century. Such questions have often focused on the extent to which religion should be viewed as a public or private affair, and hence whether or not it should have a role in state schooling. This article presents qualitative research that examines the role of religion in the ethos of two different schooling models and the associated construction of state institutional space and home/civic space in each. Drawing on Davie’s (2007) concept of ‘vicarious religion’, the article highlights the continued presence of certain types of religious and spiritual manifestations in the public sphere. In so doing, it contributes to wider debates about secularization and the role of religion in modern liberal democracies.
Off the Leash and Out of Control: Masculinities and Embodiment in Eastern European Stag Tourism
Authors: Thurnell-Read Thomas
Published: October 2011

Entrenched conceptions of masculinity have constructed the male body as bounded and controlled. This article discusses the centrality of a particular construction of the male body to the phenomenon of British premarital stag party tourism to Eastern European cities. Drawing on data from participant-observation in Kraków, Poland, it is shown that the tour participants enact an embodied masculinity which is unruly and unrestrained. The stag tour experience is embodied through the use of clothing and incidences of nudity, public urination and vomiting, and the detrimental physical effects of heavy alcohol consumption. This embodiment is self-destructive and frequently self-parodic. The failures of participants to sustain a controlled and contained body are celebrated as part of the enactment of a boisterous masculinity. This represents a release from normative pressures concerning the male body but, with transgression being only temporary, also acts to support the ritualistic reinscription of a wider hegemonic masculinity.
What Went Wrong? Lessons Learned from a Failed Group Intervention at a Family Company
Authors: Arenas Segura Iván
Published: October 2011

This article analyses the failure of an intervention made by a group in the management team of a family company to improve its workplace relations. The concepts discussed in this article include regression and paranoia genesis, fantasies of personality dissolution, imbalance between constructive and destructive forces, an illusory sense of equality and the anti-group. For the analysis, the author considers ideology, bureaucratization and characteristics of the setting, as well as the conductors’ focus and verbal interventions. The analysis reveals that the conductors failed to create a safe atmosphere that could contain destructive emotions and impulses. The conductors did not sufficiently stimulate or reinforce connections among the participants, positively connote the processes observed or formulate appropriate interpretations.
Group Analysis and Dementia: Reflections on Conducting an Analytic Space
Authors: Anderson Daniel
Published: October 2011

Group analysis, both as a treatment modality and theoretical body of knowledge, has seldom taken up the chance to think about and work with older adults and specifically dementia sufferers. This article reports an experience of conducting an analytic space for those suffering with mild dementia who requested an opportunity to discuss in detail the significance of that diagnosis upon their wellbeing and their families. Descriptions of personal experiences and clinical situations are provided as well as potential theoretical links into group analytic theory, specifically taking into account the impact of cognitive impairment and subsequent changes to personhood, and wider interpersonal relationships. The article further suggests that group analysis has much to offer older people, whether suffering with dementia or not, although flexibility of technique and style may be needed. The author asks for group analysis to embrace this group of people as being treatable and professionally rewarding to the analyst.
Therapeutic Factors in Patient Groups with Psychosis
Authors: García-Cabeza Ignacio , Ducajú Mauricio , Chapela Esther , González de Chávez Manuel
Published: October 2011

Therapeutic factors in group therapy are a series of action mechanisms that contribute to change in therapeutic processes. They are inherent to group dynamics and interaction, yet are not necessarily associated with a therapist’s intervention. These factors are elemental components of a therapeutic change phenomenon derived from the group matrix.

We present five studies that thoroughly evaluate these therapy factors within groups of patients diagnosed with psychosis. All factors are measured with the Yalom Q-sort questionnaire that defines factors based on their value given by the patients. We evaluate and report these value differences between group context, patient diagnosis, and therapeutic orientation.

Therapeutic factors act independently of diagnoses, theoretical framework, and classification; they are intrinsic components of unique group dynamics. In general, the factor claimed to be most important in patients with severe mental disorders was the instillation of hope.
Four Potential Disconnects in the Community Planning Process
Authors: Loh Carolyn G.
Published: October 2011

Although participatory planning has become a well-established emphasis in the planning field, planners often find that land-use outcomes conflict with community goals, resulting in a dissatisfied citizenry. I argue that these conflicts often result from disconnects between steps in the planning process, which tend to occur in instances where the “baton” of implementation passes from one document or one agency to the next. I identify four common areas of disconnect within the planning process, propose explanations for each of the disconnects, and suggest ways to overcome this tendency for the planning process to break down.
Hepatic megalocytosis due to vanadium inhalation: participation of oxidative stress
Authors: Cano-Gutiérrez Gumaro , Acevedo-Nava Sandra , Santamaría Abel , Altamirano-Lozano Mario , Cano-Rodríguez María Concepción , Fortoul Teresa I
Published: October 2011

The aim of this study was to evaluate the morphological changes, liver function test (LFT), and oxidative stress damage caused by thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), in mice exposed to vanadium via inhalation. Male CD-1 mice were exposed to vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) via inhalation (0.02 M), 1 hour twice a week for 6 weeks. At the end of the protocol, controls and exposed mice were killed to evaluate the changes. Histological analysis and LFT were performed to detect the damage. TBARS detection was assessed for oxidative stress. Inflammatory infiltration, binucleation, and meganucleus were detected in the liver of V2O5-exposed mice ( p < 0.05). Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels were also significantly increased ( p < 0.05). Lipid peroxidation was significantly higher in V2O5-exposed animals compared to controls ( p < 0.05). V2O5 exposure induced inflammation and cell damage detected by the increase in ALT and AST levels, as well as histological changes that suggest regenerative changes, such as binucleation and meganucleus.