bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wnt5a Is Required for Endothelial Differentiation of Embryonic Stem Cells and Vascularization via Pathways Involving Both Wnt/β-Catenin and Protein Kinase Cα
Authors: Yang Dong-Hwa , Yoon Ju-Young , Lee Soung-Hoon , Bryja Vitezslav , Andersson Emma R. , Arenas Ernest , Kwon Young-Guen , Choi Kang-Yell
Published: December 2008

In this study, we examined the signaling pathways activated by Wnt5a in endothelial differentiation of embryonic stem (ES) cells and the function of Wnt5a during vascular development. We first found that
Wnt5a
−/−
mouse embryonic stem (mES) cells exhibited a defect in endothelial differentiation, which was rescued by addition of Wnt5a, suggesting that Wnt5a is required for endothelial differentiation of ES cells. Involvement of both β-catenin and protein kinase (PK)Cα pathways in endothelial differentiation of mES cells requiring Wnt5a was indicated by activation of both β-catenin and PKCα in
Wnt5a
+/−
but not in
Wnt5a
−/−
mES cells. We also found that β-catenin or PKCα knockdowns inhibited the Wnt5a-induced endothelial differentiation of ES cells. Moreover, the lack of endothelial differentiation of
Wnt5a
−/−
mES cells was rescued only by transfection of both β-catenin and
PKC
α, indicating that both genes are required for Wnt5a-mediated endothelial differentiation. Wnt5a was also found to be essential for the differentiation of mES cells into immature endothelial progenitor cells, which are known to play a role in repair of damaged endothelium. Furthermore, a defect in the vascularization of the neural tissue was detected at embryonic day 14.5 in
Wnt5a
−/−
mice, implicating Wnt5a in vascular development in vivo. Thus, we conclude that Wnt5a is involved in the endothelial differentiation of ES cells via both Wnt/β-catenin and PKC signaling pathways and regulates embryonic vascular development.
Fate Of Culture-Expanded Mesenchymal Stem Cells in The Microvasculature
Authors: Toma Catalin , Wagner William R. , Bowry Shivani , Schwartz Abigail , Villanueva Flordeliza
Published: December 2008

Vascular delivery of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) following myocardial infarction is under clinical investigation. Little is known about the microvascular fate of MSCs. We used intravital microscopy of rat cremaster muscle microcirculation to track intraarterially delivered MSCs. Rat MSCs (average diameter, 23 μm) were bolused into the ipsilateral common iliac artery. Interrogation of an arteriole–venule pair revealed that 92±7% (n=6) of MSCs arrest and interrupt flow during first pass at the precapillary level, resulting in decreased flow in the feeding arteriole (velocity decreased from 6.3±1.0 to 4.6±1.3 mm/sec;
P
<0.001). MSC deformability evaluated using filtration through polycarbonate membranes revealed that the cortical tension of MSCs (0.49±0.07 dyne/cm, n=9) was not different from that of circulating mononuclear cells (0.50±0.05 dyne/cm, n=7). When intravital microscopy was performed 3 days following injection, the number of MSCs in the cremaster further decreased to 14% of the initial number, because of cell death in situ. In vivo labeling of the basement membrane revealed that at 1 day, the surviving cells were spread out on the luminal side of the microvessel, whereas at 3 days, they integrated in the microvascular wall. Despite their deformability, intraarterially delivered MSCs entrap at the precapillary level because of their large size, with a small proportion of surviving MSCs integrating in a perivascular niche.
IL-10 Inhibits Inflammation and Attenuates Left Ventricular Remodeling After Myocardial Infarction via Activation of STAT3 and Suppression of HuR
Authors: Krishnamurthy Prasanna , Rajasingh Johnson , Lambers Erin , Qin Gangjian , Losordo Douglas W. , Kishore Raj
Published: December 2008

Persistent inflammatory response has adverse effects on left ventricular (LV) function and remodeling following acute myocardial infarction. We hypothesized that suppression of inflammation with interleukin (IL)-10 treatment attenuates LV dysfunction and remodeling after acute myocardial infarction. After the induction of acute myocardial infarction, mice were treated with either saline or recombinant IL-10, and inflammatory response and LV functional and structural remodeling changes were evaluated. IL-10 significantly suppressed infiltration of inflammatory cells and expression of proinflammatory cytokines in the myocardium. These changes were associated with IL-10-mediated inhibition of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase activation and repression of the cytokine mRNA-stabilizing protein HuR. IL-10 treatment significantly improved LV functions, reduced infarct size, and attenuated infarct wall thinning. Myocardial infarction-induced increase in matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 expression and activity was associated with increased fibrosis, whereas IL-10 treatment reduced both MMP-9 activity and fibrosis. Small interfering RNA knockdown of HuR mimicked IL-10-mediated reduction in MMP-9 expression and activity in NIH3T3 cells. Moreover, IL-10 treatment significantly increased capillary density in the infarcted myocardium which was associated with enhanced STAT3 phosphorylation. Taken together, our studies demonstrate that IL-10 suppresses inflammatory response and contributes to improved LV function and remodeling by inhibiting fibrosis via suppression of HuR/MMP-9 and by enhancing capillary density through activation of STAT3.
Pravastatin Improves Function in Hibernating Myocardium by Mobilizing CD133
+
and cKit
+
Bone Marrow Progenitor Cells and Promoting Myocytes to Reenter the Growth Phase of the Cardiac Cell Cycle
Authors: Suzuki Gen , Iyer Vijay , Cimato Thomas , Canty John M.
Published: December 2008

3-Hydroxy-3-methyl glutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors have been reported to increase circulating bone marrow progenitor cells and variably improve global function in heart failure. The potential role of improved perfusion versus direct effects of statins on cardiac myocytes has not been established. We chronically instrumented swine with a left anterior descending artery (LAD) stenosis to produce chronic hibernating myocardium with regional contractile dysfunction in the absence of heart failure. Hemodynamics, function, perfusion, and histopathology were assessed in pigs treated for 5 weeks with pravastatin (n=12) versus untreated controls (n=10). Regional LAD wall thickening was depressed under baseline conditions (LAD 3.7±0.3 versus 6.6±0.3 in remote regions,
P
<0.01). It remained unchanged in untreated animals but increased from 3.8±0.6 to 5.2±0.5 mm after pravastatin (
P
<0.01). There was no increase in myocardial perfusion at rest or during vasodilation. Pravastatin mobilized circulating CD133
+
/cKit
+
bone marrow progenitor cells and increased myocardial tissue levels (LAD CD133
+
cells from 140±33 to 884±167 cells/10
6
myocyte nuclei and cKit
+
cells from 223±49 to 953±123 cells/10
6
myocyte nuclei). Pravastatin increased myocytes in mitosis (phospho–histone-H3; 9±5 to 43±7 nuclei/10
6
myocyte nuclei,
P
<0.05) and the growth phase of the cell cycle (Ki67; 410±82 to 1261±235 nuclei/10
6
myocyte nuclei,
P
<0.05) in diseased but not normal hearts. As a result, pravastatin increased LAD myocyte nuclear density from 830±41 to 1027±55 nuclei/mm
2
(
P
<0.05). These data indicate that, in the absence of impaired endothelial function and heart failure, dysfunctional hibernating myocardium improves after pravastatin. This effect is independent of myocardial perfusion and related to mobilization of CD133
+
/cKit
+
bone marrow progenitor cells which stimulate myocyte proliferation resulting in quantitative increases in myocyte nuclear density.
Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A
2
and High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein Improve the Stratification of Ischemic Stroke Risk in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study
Authors: Nambi Vijay , Hoogeveen Ron C. , Chambless Lloyd , Hu Yijuan , Bang Heejung , Coresh Josef , Ni Hanyu , Boerwinkle Eric , Mosley Thomas , Sharrett Richey , Folsom Aaron R. , Ballantyne Christie M.
Published: December 2008

Background and Purpose—

Inflammation plays a critical role in the development of vascular disease, and increased levels of the inflammatory biomarkers, lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A
2
(Lp-PLA
2
), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) have been shown to be associated with an increased risk for ischemic stroke.

Methods—

In a prospective case-cohort (n=949) study in 12 762 apparently healthy, middle-aged men and women in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study, we first examined whether Lp-PLA
2
and hs-CRP levels improved the area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUC) for 5-year ischemic stroke risk. We then examined how Lp-PLA
2
and hs-CRP levels altered classification of individuals into low-, intermediate-, or high-risk categories compared with traditional risk factors.

Results—

In a model using traditional risk factors alone, the AUC adjusted for optimism was 0.732, whereas adding hs-CRP improved the AUC to 0.743, and adding Lp-PLA
2
significantly improved the AUC to 0.752. Addition of hs-CRP and Lp-PLA
2
together in the model improved the AUC to 0.761, and the addition of the interaction between Lp-PLA
2
and hs-CRP further significantly improved the AUC to 0.774. With the use of traditional risk factors to assess 5-year risk for ischemic stroke, 86% of participants were categorized as low risk (<2%); 11%, intermediate risk (2% to 5%); and 3%, high risk (>5%). The addition of hs-CRP, Lp-PLA
2
, and their interaction to the model reclassified 4%, 39%, and 34% of the low-, intermediate- and high-risk categories, respectively.

Conclusion—

Lp-PLA
2
and hs-CRP may be useful in individuals classified as intermediate risk for ischemic stroke by traditional risk factors.
Psychosocial Functioning of Spouses of Patients With Stroke From Initial Inpatient Rehabilitation to 3 Years Poststroke
Authors: Visser-Meily Anne , Post Marcel , van de Port Ingrid , Maas Cora , Forstberg-Wärleby Gunilla , Lindeman Eline
Published: December 2008

Background and Purpose—

Few studies have focused on long-term changes in the caregiving experience after stroke. This study assessed changes in the psychosocial functioning of spouses (burden, depressive symptoms, harmony in the relationship between patient and spouse, and social relations) during the first 3 years after stroke and identified predictors of the course of spouses’ psychosocial functioning based on the characteristics of patients and spouses with special emphasis on coping style.

Methods—

We examined 211 couples shortly after the patient’s admission to a rehabilitation center, 197 2 months after discharge, 187 1 year poststroke, and 121 3 years poststroke. Burden was assessed using the Caregiver Strain Index, depressive symptoms with the Goldberg Depression Scale, harmony in the relationship with the Interactional Problem Solving Inventory, and social relations with the Social Support List. Multilevel regression analyses were performed.

Results—

A significant effect of time (
P
<0.01) was found for all 4 aspects of spouses’ psychosocial functioning. Although burden decreased, harmony in the relationship and social relations also decreased. The depression score showed a nonlinear pattern with an initial decrease but a long-term increase. All outcomes were significantly related to caregiver coping strategies. A total of 15% to 27% of the variance in psychosocial functioning could be explained.

Conclusions—

Follow-up of spouses of patients with stroke requires not only assessment of burden, but also other aspects of psychosocial functioning like harmony in the relationship, depression, and social relations, because our results show negative long-term consequences of stroke for these aspects of caregiver quality of life.
The Prognostic Value of Capillary Glucose Levels in Acute Stroke
Authors: Fuentes Blanca , Castillo José , San José Belén , Leira Rogelio , Serena Joaquín , Vivancos José , Dávalos Antonio , Nuñez Antonio Gil , Egido José , Díez-Tejedor Exuperio
Published: December 2008

Background and Purpose—

Evidence is accumulating regarding the prognostic influence of hyperglycemia in patients with acute ischemic stroke. However, the level associated with poor outcome is unknown. Our objectives were to establish the capillary glucose threshold with the highest predictive accuracy of poor outcome and to evaluate its hypothetical value in influencing functional outcome by adjusting for other well-known prognostic factors in acute stroke.

Methods—

The authors conducted a multicenter, prospective, and observational cohort study of 476 patients with ischemic stroke within less than 24 hours from stroke onset. Capillary finger-prick glucose and stroke severity were determined on admission and 3 times a day during the first 48 hours. Poor outcome (modified Rankin Scale >2) was evaluated at 3 months.

Results—

The receiver operating characteristic curves showed the predictive value of maximum capillary glucose at any time within the first 48 hours with an area under the curve of 0.656 (95% CI, 0.592 to 0.720;
P
<0.01) and pointed to 155 mg/dL as the optimal cutoff level for poor outcome at 3 months (53% sensitivity; 73% specificity). This point was associated with a 2.7-fold increase (95% CI, 1.42 to 5.24) in the odds of poor outcome after adjustment for age, diabetes, capillary glucose on admission, infarct volume, and baseline stroke severity and with a 3-fold increase in the risk of death at 3 months (hazard ratio, 3.80; 95% CI, 1.79 to 8.10).

Conclusions—

Hyperglycemia ≥155 mg/dL at any time within the first 48 hours from stroke onset, and not only the isolated value of admission glycemia, is associated with poor outcome independently of stroke severity, infarct volume, diabetes, or age.
Potential Role of PUMA in Delayed Death of Hippocampal CA1 Neurons After Transient Global Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Niizuma Kuniyasu , Endo Hidenori , Nito Chikako , Myer D. Jeannie , Chan Pak H.
Published: December 2008

Background and Purpose—

p53-upregulated modulator of apoptosis (PUMA), a BH3-only member of the Bcl-2 protein family, is required for p53-dependent and -independent forms of apoptosis. PUMA localizes to mitochondria and interacts with antiapoptotic Bcl-2 and Bcl-X
L
or proapoptotic Bax in response to death stimuli. Although studies have shown that PUMA is associated with pathomechanisms of cerebral ischemia, clearly defined roles for PUMA in ischemic neuronal death remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to determine potential roles for PUMA in cerebral ischemia.

Methods—

Five minutes of transient global cerebral ischemia (tGCI) were induced by bilateral common carotid artery occlusion combined with hypotension.

Results—

PUMA was upregulated in vulnerable hippocampal CA1 neurons after tGCI as shown by immunohistochemistry. In Western blot and coimmunoprecipitation analyses, PUMA localized to mitochondria and was bound to Bcl-X
L
and Bax in the hippocampal CA1 subregion after tGCI. PUMA upregulation was inhibited by pifithrin-α, a specific inhibitor of p53, suggesting that PUMA is partly controlled by the p53 transcriptional pathway after tGCI. Furthermore, reduction in oxidative stress by overexpression of copper/zinc superoxide dismutase, which is known to be protective of vulnerable ischemic hippocampal neurons, inhibited PUMA upregulation and subsequent hippocampal CA1 neuronal death after tGCI.

Conclusions—

These results imply a potential role for PUMA in delayed CA1 neuronal death after tGCI and that it could be a molecular target for therapy.
Safety and Efficacy of Endovascular Thrombectomy in Patients With Abnormal Hemostasis
Authors: Nogueira Raul G. , Smith Wade S.
Published: December 2008

Background and Purpose—

Patients with abnormal hemostasis are not considered candidates for thrombolysis. We analyzed the MERCI/Multi MERCI cohort as an attempt to establish the risks and benefits of thrombectomy in this patient population.

Methods—

Two patient groups were identified: Group 1 (n=35): patients with INR >1.7 or PTT >45 seconds or platelet count <100 000/μL; Group 2 (n=270): patients with INR ≤1.7, PTT ≤45 seconds, and platelet count ≥100 000/μL. Clinical, radiographic, and revascularization outcomes were subsequently compared.

Results—

In Group 1, 20 patients had INR >1.7 (mean: 2.4; range: 1.8 to 4.9), 11 had PTT >45 seconds (mean: 95; range: 46 to 190), and 6 had platelets <100 000/μL (mean: 63 400; range: 16 000 to 94 000). Two patients had both INR >1.7 and PTT >45 seconds. The two groups did not significantly differ in terms of age, gender, baseline NIHSS scores, intraarterial thrombolytic use/dosage, or occlusion site. Time-to-treatment was slightly earlier in Group 1. There was no significant difference in the rates of revascularization (TIMI 2 to 3: 60% versus 65%), mortality (40% versus 38%), or major symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (SICH; 8.6% versus 8.5%). Group 2 had higher rates of good clinical outcomes (9% versus 35%;
P
=0.002). This was likely related to a lower prestroke health status in Group 1 patients. In Group 1, successful revascularization was associated with improved outcomes (
P
=0.015) and lower mortality (24% versus 64%;
P
=0.033).

Conclusion—

Patients with abnormal hemostasis who undergo thrombectomy do not appear to be at a higher risk for SICH but have lower rates of good outcomes. In this patient group, successful revascularization appears to be associated with improved clinical outcomes and lower mortality.
S
tem Cell
T
herapies as an
E
merging
P
aradigm in
S
troke (STEPS)
Authors:   The STEPS Participants
Published: December 2008

Investigators developing cellular therapy for stroke face many challenges. Preclinical models used for cellular therapy studies should be relevant to human stroke and predictive of benefit despite differences in stroke size, cerebrovascular anatomy, immune status, and neurological responses. Translating preclinical testing to human trials is compounded by consideration of delivery method and translation of dosing with cell survival. Many issues must be approached in designing clinical trials of cellular therapy for stroke, including appropriate outcome measures, controlling for confounding factors such as rehabilitation therapy, and possible surrogate outcomes using imaging such as MRI and newer imaging techniques. It is also important to establish standardized clinical protocols and clinical database registries in advance of early proof-of-concept studies. Investigators must adopt a standardized nomenclature and characterization schema for cell products to accurately define potency and determine clinical outcome from early proof-of-concept studies. The
S
tem Cell
T
herapies as an
E
merging
P
aradigm in
S
troke (STEPS) meeting was organized to bring together clinical and basic researchers with industry and regulatory representatives to assess the critical issues in the field and to create a framework to guide future investigations.
Atherosclerotic Burden Findings in Young Cryptogenic Stroke Patients With and Without a Patent Foramen Ovale
Authors: Rodés-Cabau Josep , Noël Martin , Marrero Alier , Rivest Donald , Mackey Ariane , Houde Christine , Bédard Elizabeth , Larose Eric , Verreault Steve , Peticlerc Marc , Pibarot Philippe , Bogaty Peter , Bertrand Olivier F.
Published: December 2008

Background and Purpose—

To further determine the mechanisms of cryptogenic stroke or transient ischemic attack in young patients, we evaluated indices of atherosclerosis in patients ≤55 years old diagnosed with cryptogenic cerebrovascular event comparing those with patent foramen ovale (PFO) with those without PFO.

Methods—

This was a prospective study including 100 consecutive patients ≤55 years old (mean age, 45±8 years; 56 males) diagnosed with cryptogenic stroke/transient ischemic attack. PFO was identified in 59 of these patients with the use of transesophageal echocardiography with contrast study. The following surrogate markers of atherosclerosis were evaluated in all patients: carotid intima media thickness as measured by carotid ultrasonography and endothelial function as determined by brachial flow-mediated vasodilation. The same measurements were obtained in a control group of 50 age- and sex-matched control subjects.

Results—

Patients without PFO were more likely to be current smokers and obese and more frequently had a history of hypertension and dyslipidemia. Carotid intima media thickness measurements were higher (
P
<0.0001) in patients without PFO (1.03±0.31 mm) compared with those with PFO (0.75±0.20 mm) and control subjects (0.79±0.17 mm). The absence of PFO was also associated with lower brachial flow-mediated vasodilation (without PFO: 5.04±3.39%; with PFO: 7.16±4.09%; control subjects: 7.33±4.07%;
P
=0.02). There were no differences in carotid intima media thickness and flow-mediated vasodilation between patients with stroke/transient ischemic attack with PFO and control subjects. The presence of PFO was independently associated with reduced carotid intima media thickness (
P
<0.0001) and increased flow-mediated vasodilation (
P
=0.019).

Conclusions—

In patients ≤55 years old diagnosed with cryptogenic stroke/transient ischemic attack, the presence of PFO was associated with a lower atherosclerotic burden as measured by carotid intima media thickness and endothelial function with no differences compared with a control group without cerebrovascular event. These results suggest that an atherosclerotic-mediated mechanism may be involved in cryptogenic stroke/transient ischemic attack in patients without PFO, whereas a nonatherosclerotic mechanism may mediate the cerebrovascular event in the presence of PFO.
Retinopathy in Ischemic Stroke Subtypes
Authors: Doubal Fergus N. , Dhillon Baljean , Dennis Martin S. , Wardlaw Joanna M.
Published: December 2008

Background and Purpose—

Lacunar stroke is associated with an intrinsic cerebral small vessel disorder of unknown etiology, although possible causes include increased blood-brain barrier permeability. Retinal arterioles are similar to cerebral small vessels and retinopathy occurs secondary to increased blood-retinal barrier permeability. We hypothesized that there would be higher rates of retinopathy in patients with acute lacunar versus cortical stroke.

Methods—

We prospectively recruited patients presenting with acute lacunar and cortical ischemic stroke. An experienced stroke physician diagnosed and subtyped the stroke based on clinical features and cerebral MRI. We performed 6 dilated digital retinal photographs of each eye in all patients. A carefully trained physician graded retinopathy (one or more of hard or soft exudates, microaneurysms, or hemorrhages) blind to stroke type as definitely present/absent or uncertain.

Results—

We recruited 220 patients; 6 were excluded with ungradeable photographs leaving 214 patients for analysis (105 lacunar and 109 cortical strokes). Mean age was 68 years (SD, 11 years) and median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale 2. Similar proportions of each group had diabetes (17% lacunar versus 10% cortical) and hypertension (56% lacunar and 66% cortical). Eighteen percent of lacunar and 19% of cortical patients had any retinopathy. After adjusting for baseline differences in age, hypertension, and diabetes, retinopathy was not associated with ischemic stroke subtype.

Conclusions—

We have not demonstrated a strong association between retinopathy and ischemic stroke subtype. However, larger samples or assessment of other retinal vascular abnormalities may yield positive associations.
Long-Term Health-Related Quality of Life After Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Visser-Meily J.M. Anne , Rhebergen Marloes L. , Rinkel Gabriel J.E. , van Zandvoort Martine J. , Post Marcel W.M.
Published: December 2008

Background and Purpose—

Many patients who survive an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage experience decreased health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Physical factors have been identified as determinants of HRQoL. We describe long-term HRQoL and assessed whether psychological symptoms and personality characteristics determine HRQoL after subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Methods—

In a cross-sectional study in 141 patients living independently in the community 2 to 4 years after subarachnoid hemorrhage, we assessed whether HRQoL, evaluated by the Stroke Specific Quality of Life scale, was related to psychological symptoms (mood disorders, fatigue, and cognitive complaints), personality characteristics (neuroticism and passive coping style), demographic characteristics, and subarachnoid hemorrhage disease characteristics.

Results—

Best Stroke Specific Quality of Life scale scores were found in the physical domain and worst in the emotional and social domains. Thirty-two percent reported anxiety, 23% depression, and 67% fatigue. Mood (beta between −0.42 and −0.18), fatigue (beta between −0.40 and −0.24), and cognitive complaints (beta between −0.46 and −0.16) were strongly associated with Stroke Specific Quality of Life scale scores in multivariate regression analyses.

Conclusion—

Depression, anxiety, and fatigue were present in a substantial proportion of patients and were strongly related to decreased HRQoL. These symptoms identified are helpful to tailor rehabilitation to the needs of patients in the chronic phase after subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Influencia social y discriminación: percepción de la capacidad de adaptación de los inmigrantes y amenaza para la identidad nacional
Authors: Falomir-Pichastor Juan-Manuel , Mugny Gabriel
Published: December 2008

Se ha examinado la influencia de una norma endogrupal (pro-discriminación vs. anti-discriminación) en una muestra de 222 estudiantes universitarios suizos (144 mujeres) en función del favoritismo endogrupal (participantes inicialmente igualitarios vs. moderadamente discriminadores), la percepción de la capacidad que tienen los inmigrantes para adaptarse en Suiza (moderada vs. alta) y la amenaza que los inmigrantes introducen para la identidad nacional suiza (baja vs. alta). La norma endogrupal y la amenaza intergrupo fueron manipuladas experimentalmente, mientras que el favoritismo endogrupal inicial y la capacidad de adaptación percibida fueron medidas al inicio del estudio. La variable dependiente era el cambio en el favoritismo endogrupal. Se observaron cambios significativos únicamente en los participantes que inicialmente eran moderadamente discriminadores. La norma anti-discriminación obtiene una mayor influencia (disminución del favoritismo endogrupal) cuando la amenaza es baja y los inmigrantes son percibidos como altamente adaptables en Suiza. La norma pro-discriminación obtiene una influencia (aumento del favoritismo endogrupal) cuando la amenaza es alta y los inmigrantes son percibidos sólo como moderadamente adaptables. Estos resultados confirman la importancia de factores, tanto contextuales como disposicionales, que legitiman los procesos de influencia normativa en las actitudes intergrupo.
¿Afectan los cambios en el contexto intergrupal a la percepción de los medios de comunicación? Un estudio longitudinal antes y después de las Elecciones Generales de 2004
Authors: Herrera Marina , Rodrigo María-Florencia
Published: December 2008

Se analiza el efecto de la fuerza de la identidad y de los cambios en el contexto intergrupal sobre la percepción de los medios de comunicación durante las elecciones generales de 2004. Ciento veinte sujetos identificados con uno de los dos principales partidos políticos formaron parte del estudio, el cual se realizó en dos fases (antes y después de las elecciones). La percepción de sesgos y de influencia de los medios de comunicación se analizó en ambas fases, y el impacto percibido de la información en relación con el atentado del 11-M en la segunda. Los resultados muestran diferencias en la percepción de los media en las dos fases, sobre todo entre los sujetos con una alta identificación (bien con el partido en el poder, que perdió las elecciones, o con el de la oposición, que las ganó). Antes de las elecciones, éstos últimos mostraron más sesgos de los media a favor del exogrupo. Después de las elecciones, aumentaron los sesgos evaluativos entre quienes perdieron, percibiendo una mayor influencia del contenido general y específico de los media sobre el exogrupo.
Bayesian Bigot? Statistical Discrimination, Stereotypes, and Employer Decision Making
Authors: Pager Devah , Karafin Diana
Published: December 2008

Much of the debate over the underlying causes of discrimination centers on the rationality of employer decision making. Economic models of statistical discrimination emphasize the cognitive utility of group estimates as a means of dealing with the problems of uncertainty. Sociological and social-psychological models, by contrast, question the accuracy of group-level attributions. Although mean differences may exist between groups on productivity-related characteristics, these differences are often inflated in their application, leading to much larger differences in individual evaluations than would be warranted by actual group-level trait distributions. In this study, the authors examine the nature of employer attitudes about black and white workers and the extent to which these views are calibrated against their direct experiences with workers from each group. They use data from fifty-five in-depth interviews with hiring managers to explore employers' group-level attributions and their direct observations to develop a model of attitude formation and employer learning.
Moynihan Was Right: Now What?
Authors: Haskins Ron
Published: December 2008

In 1965, Daniel Patrick Moynihan predicted that the exposure of so many black children, especially males, to fatherless families would prevent many from seizing new opportunities through the civil rights revolution. Although Moynihan was excoriated in the academic world and beyond, subsequent events have proven him correct. Today, in part because of the continuing demise of married-couple families, the average black is far behind the average white in educational achievement, employment rates, and earnings; blacks also have much higher crime and incarceration rates. These outcomes have led to growing recognition that the promise of the civil rights revolution will not be achieved until the black family is repaired. This article proposes a series of policies intended to increase and reward work, reduce nonmarital births and increase marriage rates, expand preschool education, and reduce incarceration rates and integrate former prisoners back into society—all designed to reduce lone parenting or deal with its effects.
Fragile Families and the Reproduction of Poverty
Authors: McLanahan Sara
Published: December 2008

In 1965, Daniel Patrick Moynihan warned that nonmarital childbearing and marital dissolution were undermining the progress of African Americans. The author argues that what Moynihan identified as a race-specific problem in the 1960s has now become a class-based phenomena as well. Using data from a new birth cohort study, the author shows that unmarried parents come from much more disadvantaged populations than married parents. The author further argues that nonmarital childbearing reproduces class and racial disparities through its association with partnership instability and multipartnered fertility. These processes increase maternal stress and mental health problems, reduce the quality of mothers' parenting, reduce paternal investments, and ultimately lead to poor outcomes in children. Finally, by spreading fathers' contributions across multiple households, partnership instability and multipartnered fertility undermine the importance of individual fathers' contributions of time and money, which is likely to affect the future marriage expectations of both sons and daughters.
The New U.S. Immigrants: How Do They Affect Our Understanding of the African American Experience?
Authors: Bean Frank D. , Feliciano Cynthia , Lee Jennifer , Van Hook Jennifer
Published: December 2008

Because Moynihan's 1965 report (in)famously emphasized the need to change black family culture to ameliorate black poverty, his work holds relevance for understanding factors affecting color lines. The implications of recent immigration for U.S. race relations depend on family cultural orientations among Mexican Americans, as well as on how Anglos culturally perceive this group. Mexican-origin family behaviors are often reified as either being unduly familistic or largely governed by culture of poverty tendencies. Here, we review research suggesting that neither of these is accurate, thus indicating that future Mexican-origin economic advancement is as likely to turn on the availability of structural opportunities as on cultural factors. In-depth interviews with Anglos further suggest that Mexican-origin persons are culturally viewed with less prejudice and discrimination than blacks, which implies that the integration of Mexican-origin persons into American society (unlike that of blacks) is progressing at a steady if not rapid pace.
Diagnosis and Office Management of Headaches in Children
Authors: Ferry Peggy C.
Published: December 2008

The headaches associated with muscle-contraction (tension) mi graine, increased intracranial pressure and occipital neuralgia have a reasonably typical clinical profile. The optimal out patient diagnostic evaluation of the child with headaches includes a thorough history and physical examination, and a skull x-ray. Radioactive brain scan, cervical spine x-rays, lumbar puncture, and psychiatric consultation are reserved for selected patients. Recommendations for therapy, based on the type of headache includes alleviation of family and environmental stresses, pro phylactic anticonvulsant medication and rarely Methysergide.
Does Prior Antibiotic Treatment Hamper the Diagnosis of Acute Bacterial Meningitis?
Authors: Jarvis Charles W. , Saxena Krishna M.
Published: December 2008

During the five-year period from January 1964 through De cember 1969, 135 children between one month and 15 years of age with bacterial meningitis were treated. Sixty (44%) had received some type of antibacterial drug before the diagnosis was made. Spinal fluid cultures and smears were positive more often in the "untreated" group, but there were no numerical differences between the groups in blood cultures or in causative organisms identified. Prior therapy did not produce significant differences in CSF properties, or have an adverse effect on the response to treatment, duration of hospitalization, or ultimate outcome.
The Psychological Adjustment of Rheumatic Fever Patients with and without Chorea
Authors: Stehbens James A. , Macqueen John C.
Published: December 2008

The contention that adults who have had Sydenham's chorea with rheumatic fever in childhood tend to suffer from per sonality maladjustment during adult life is not supported by this careful follow-up study of 65 such individuals.
Intracath Treatment of Tension Pneumothorax in the Neonate
Authors: Magill Eleanor A. , Walker Colin H.M.
Published: December 2008

Of 10 neonates with tension pneumothorax, three had been previously intubated; two of these had been given positive pressure ventilation prior to the onset of the pneumothorax. Treatment with a Bardic Intracath is simple and effective.
The Prevention and Treatment of Varicella- Zoster Infection in Patients at High Risk
Authors: Movassaghi Nasser
Published: December 2008

Disseminated herpes zoster or varicella can be life-threatening to patients with malignancy or immune deficiency and those receiving immunosuppres sive or cytotoxic drugs. For prevention of the infection, convalescent zoster plasma or Zoster Immune Globulin (ZIG) should be given within 72 hours after exposure to herpes zoster or varicella. For such patients already ill with herpes zoster infection or varicella, cytosine arabinoside should be infused continuously for several days until the infection is under control.
Extraintestinal Shigellosis: Bacteremia and Paroxysmal Atrial Tachycardia
Authors: Fernhoff Paul M. , Plotkin Stanley A.
Published: December 2008

A case of shigella bacteremia with paroxysmal atrial tachy cardia is described. The causative organism was Shigella sonnei which was also recovered from a sibling of the patient.
Lead on Wrappers of Specialty Foods as a Potential Hazard for Children
Authors: Hankin Lester , Heichel Gary H. , Botsford Richard A.
Published: December 2008

The lead content of the colored portions of wrappers from bakery confections, lollypops, chewing gum, and frozen confections ranged from 8 to 10,100 ppm (1.0%). This may endanger children.
Micrognathia and Glossoptosis in the Newborn
Authors: Hawkins Donald B. , Simpson John V.
Published: December 2008

This report discusses airway obstruction in newborn infants with micrognathia and glossop tosis, and describes three patients who required surgical relief of obstruction from glossoptosis. In two, glossoptosis was controlled by construction of lingual-labial flaps under local anesthesia. The third required tracheostomy because of absence of the mandibular symphysis; to be effective, a lingual-labial flap requires a complete mandibular arch for support.

The lingual-labial flap is the best surgical procedure for glossoptosis of the newborn. It can be constructed under local anesthesia in the nursery or in the operating room. It holds the tongue forward, yet it allows adequate tongue mobility for feeding. Composed of the patient's own tissues, it can remain for an indefinite time.
Ectopia Lentis et Pupillae
Authors: Buchta Richard M.
Published: December 2008

A case of ectopia lentis et pupillae in a nine-month-old male is presented. This entity is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by displacement of the pupils and lens. Marfan's syndrome, homocystinuria, Marchesani syn drome, hereditary microspherophakia, and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome are included in the differential diagnoses of displaced lens, but can be eliminated by physical examination and urinary aminoacid screening. Long-term ophthal mologic evaluation is recommended because of the tendency to diminished vision, cataract formation, glaucoma, and retinal detachment in patients with ectopic lentis et pupillae.
The Sonic Surrounds of an Elementary School
Authors: Lum Chee-Hoo , Shehan Campbell Patricia
Published: December 2008

In this ethnographic study, we examined the musicking behaviors of schoolchildren at one American elementary school. The aim was to gain an understanding of the nature and context of rhythmic and melodic expressions made and heard by children, emanating from other children, as well as adults within the school environment. Time, place, and function figured as contextual considerations in the investigation of the sonic surrounds of the school; knowing when, where, and why the music occurred added meaningful dimensions to the description of children's soundscapes. The open-ended sociability of music and its pervasiveness at play and in learning were reminders of music's role in serving human functions, finding its way into private spaces, and webbing within social interactions. Also intriguing were the variety of forms of children's expressions, ranging from rhythmic play and melodic utterances to familiar songs and their parodies, and the way teachers used music for social signaling and facilitating learning.
Individual Differences in Learning and Remembering Music: Auditory versus Visual Presentation
Authors: Korenman Lisa M. , Peynircioglu Zehra F.
Published: December 2008

We examined the effects of presentation modality and learning style preference on people's ability to learn and remember unfamiliar melodies and sentences. In Experiment 1, we gauged musicians' and nonmusicians' learning efficiency for meaningful and less meaningful melodies as well as sentences when presented visually or auditorily. In Experiment 2, we tested the effects of the same variables on memory. Presentation modality did not make a difference, but learning-style preference did. Visual learners learned visually presented items faster and remembered them better than auditorily presented ones, and auditory learners did the reverse. Also, as expected, meaningful sentences were learned faster and remembered better than less meaningful ones. However, although musicians also learned meaningful melodies faster and remembered them better than less meaningful melodies, this was not the case for nonmusicians.
An Exploration of Reflective Dialogue between Student Teachers in Music and Their Cooperating Teachers
Authors: Stegman Sandra Frey
Published: December 2008

The purpose of this study was to explore the content of reflective dialogues between student teachers in music and their cooperating teachers, as well as to understand the effects of reflective dialogue on professional development. I was guided in this analysis of 49 transcriptions of interviews and reflective dialogues between student teachers and their cooperating teachers by classifications and terminology from previous research. I identified patterns and found that student teachers reflect most frequently on technical, clinical, and personal issues; critical topics were less frequently discussed. From this analysis, I highlighted the process and benefits of reflective dialogues with experienced teachers and offered approaches for cooperating teachers and university supervisors in music education.
Peer Mentoring in a High School Jazz Ensemble
Authors: Goodrich Andrew
Published: December 2008

The use of peer mentoring in a successful high school jazz band was explored during one academic year of instruction using ethnographic techniques. Participants included primary informants (student jazz band members, director, assistant director, adult mentors) and secondary informants (guidance counselor, principal, parents, nonjazz band member students). Data analysis revealed that peer mentoring contributed to the success of a high school jazz band. Five themes emerged: (a) mentoring from the adult perspective, (b) peer mentoring for musicianship, (c) mentoring in rehearsals, (d) mentoring outside jazz band rehearsals, and (e) social mentoring. Suggestions for teacher educators include supporting, developing, and implementing peer mentoring, which can aid directors in instruction and rehearsal efficiency.
A Survey of Sight-Singing Instructional Practices in Florida Middle-School Choral Programs
Authors: Kuehne Jane M.
Published: December 2008

The purpose of this research was to discover materials and methods used and examine influences on how and why sight-singing is taught in Florida middle-school choral programs. Members of the Florida Vocal Association completed an online or paper version of a questionnaire (N = 152). Data yielded several results that support previous research and provide an in-depth look at respondents' instructional practices and techniques. Additional research must be conducted to make more specific conclusions about the teaching of sight-singing in the middle grades.
Attention, Preference, and Identity in Music Listening by Middle School Students of Different Linguistic Backgrounds
Authors: Abril Carlos R. , Flowers Patricia J.
Published: December 2008

Monolingual (English) and bilingual (English, Spanish) sixth-grade students (N = 60) from two urban school settings in the United States listened to three versions of the same song (English, Spanish, and instrumental). While listening to each example, students tapped a computer touch pad every time they became distracted from the music. After listening, students described the nature of their distractions, and rated each song version for preference and identity. Finally, students were asked to describe the reason for their preference decisions. Analysis revealed no significant difference between monolingual and bilingual students in the number of self-reported distractions. However, there were significant differences by song version, with fewer reported distractions for the instrumental version. Qualitative and quantitative differences in distractions were noted between monolingual and bilingual students. There was a significant positive correlation between identity and preference. Bilingual students preferred and identified most closely with the Spanish version; monolingual students preferred and identified most closely with the instrumental version.
The Chicago Reform School Band: 1862-1872
Authors: Hash Phillip M.
Published: December 2008

The purpose of this study was to document the history of the band founded at the Chicago Reform School (CRS) circa 1862. Research questions focused on the ensemble's (1) origin and time frame, (2) service to the school and community, (3) instructors, (4) instrumentation, (5) performances, (6) funding, and (7) influence on other school bands. The Chicago Reform School was established in 1855 to provide a home and education for juvenile offenders. In addition to their academic study and vocational training, several students participated in a band that was organized around 1862 and modeled after military bands of the time. By 1866, this ensemble consisted of a fife and drum corps and a brass band that were funded by performances given throughout the city. Alfred D. Langan was the first known director, followed by Thomas P. Westendorf and Hugh Goodwin. Instrumental music continued at the CRS until around 1872, when the institution was closed due to legal issues and the partial destruction of its facilities by the Great Chicago Fire.
Effects of Excerpt Duration, Tempo, and Performance Level on Musicians' Ratings of Wind Band Performances
Authors: Geringer John M. , Johnson Christopher M.
Published: December 2008

This study investigated effects of listening example duration on the musical evaluation of wind band performances. In it, 96 music majors rated wind band performances that varied in performance level (high school, university, and professional), tempo (fast and slow), and duration (approximately 12, 25, and 50 seconds). Results showed no main effect for duration; however, there was a significant interaction between duration, tempo, and performance level. Listener ratings were higher for the medium and long durations of the professional and university level performances than for short performances. In contrast, medium and long durations were rated lower than the short examples for high school performances. The slow excerpt was rated higher than the fast excerpt only for professional performances. Analysis of features most noticed by listeners showed that intonation was associated with the relatively low ratings of high school level performances and musical expression was associated with the professional recordings.
Perception of Choral Blend Among Choral, Instrumental, and Nonmusic Majors Using the Continuous Response Digital Interface
Authors: Killian Janice N. , Basinger Lynn
Published: December 2008

The concept of choral blend is often adjudicated but seldom researched. Voice matching to achieve choral blend (placing specific voices next to one another to achieve a blended sound within a section) is frequently recommended. The authors asked participants ( N = 55) comprised of vocal, instrumental, and nonmusic majors to move a continuous response digital interface dial to indicate judgment of blend quality while listening to voice-matched choral groupings. Graphic analyses indicated general agreement in judgments of good blend and bad blend among all three groups especially within alto and bass excerpts. Less agreement appeared for soprano and tenor excerpts. Pearson correlations between repeated excerpts were highly positive for vocalists but less consistent for others. Vocalists listened longer before making a judgment. Few group differences in judgment magnitude appeared, but general tendencies toward good blend judgments were evident. Discussion included future research implications and applications for educators.