bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiac structural and hemodynamic changes associated with physiological heart hypertrophy of pregnancy are reversed postpartum
Authors: Umar Soban , Nadadur Rangarajan , Iorga Andrea , Amjedi Marjan , Matori Humann , Eghbali Mansoureh
Published: August 2012

Pregnancy is associated with ventricular hypertrophy and volume overload. Here we investigated whether late pregnancy is associated with cardiac structural and hemodynamic changes, and if these changes are reversed postpartum. Female mice (C57BL/6) were used in nonpregnant diestrus (NP), late-pregnant (LP), or 7-day postpartum (PP7) stages. Echocardiography and cardiac catheterization were performed to monitor cardiac hemodynamics. Transcript expression of proangiogenic vascular endothelial growth factor, cardiac fetal gene osteopontin, cardiac extracellular matrix-degrading enzymes matrix metalloproteinase-2, and a disintegrin and metalloproteinase-15 and -17 were assessed by RT-PCR. Masson trichrome staining for cardiac fibrosis and endothelial marker CD31 immunostaining for angiogenesis were performed. Heart hypertrophy in LP was fully reversed in PP7 (heart weight: NP = 114 ± 4 mg; LP = 147 ± 2 mg; PP7 = 117 ± 8 mg, P < 0.05 for LP vs. PP7). LP had elevated left ventricular (LV) pressure (119 ± 5 mmHg in LP vs. 92 ± 7 mmHg in NP, P < 0.05) that was restored at PP7 (95 ± 8 mmHg, P < 0.001 vs. LP). LP had increased LV contractility (maximal rate of increase of LV pressure = 6,664 ± 297 mmHg/s in LP vs. 4,294 ± 568 mmHg/s in NP, P < 0.01) that was restored at PP7 (5,313 ± 636 mmHg/s, P < 0.05 vs. LP). LV ejection fraction was reduced in LP (LP = 58 ± 1% vs. NP = 70 ± 4%, P < 0.001) and was already restored at PP1 (77 ± 2%, P < 0.001 vs. LP). Myocardial angiogenesis was significantly increased in LP (capillary density = 1.25 ± 0.02 vs. 0.95 ± 0.01 capillaries/myocyte in NP, P < 0.001) and was fully restored in PP7 (0.98 ± 0.01, P < 0.001 vs. LP). Vascular endothelial growth factor was upregulated in LP (LP = 1.4 ± 0.1 vs. NP = 1 ± 0.1, normalized to NP, P < 0.001) and was restored in PP7 (PP7 = 0.83 ± 0.1, P < 0.001 vs. LP). There was no increase in cardiac fibrosis in LP. Matrix metalloproteinase-2 transcript levels were downregulated in LP (LP = 0.47 ± 0.03 vs. NP = 1 ± 0.01, normalized to NP, P < 0.001) and was restored at PP7 (0.70 ± 0.1, P < 0.001 vs. LP). In conclusion, pregnancy-induced heart hypertrophy is associated with transient cardiac dysfunction, increased cardiac angiogenesis, lack of fibrosis, and decreased expression of remodeling enzymes that are reversed postpartum.
Diurnal changes and levels of fibrin generation are not altered by continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) in obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA)
Authors: Morel-Kopp Marie-Christine , Yee Brendon J. , Sullivan David R. , Ward Christopher M. , Tofler Geoffrey H. , Grunstein Ronald R. , McEwen Bradley J. , Phillips Craig L.
Published: August 2012

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is associated with increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. In the general population, CVD events peak at 9:00–10:00 AM, associated with diurnal changes in thrombotic potential. However in OSA, these CVD events occur frequently at night. Measuring thrombotic potential across the sleep-wake cycle may provide insight into the temporal association of OSA with CVD. This study aimed to determine diurnal changes in fibrin generation in OSA and whether treatment of OSA with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) alters fibrin generation across the sleep-wake cycle. In a randomised placebo-controlled crossover trial, patients with OSA were assigned to two months each of therapeutic CPAP and placebo. After each treatment period, fibrin generation was determined by overall haemostatic potential assay at seven time points over 24 hours (h). Twenty-eight patients (25 men, 3 women) with severe OSA (Apnoea Hypopnoea Index = 37.9 ± 23.9/h, Oxygen Desaturation Index 31.3 ± 22.4/h) completed the study. All parameters, except lag time to fibrin generation, showed significant diurnal changes, both on CPAP and placebo. Compared to 9:00 AM, fibrin generation parameters were significantly lower at midnight and 3:00 AM for overall coagulation potential (OCP), overall haemostasis potential (OHP), maximum optical density, and maximum slope (all p≤0.001). CPAP produced no change in fibrin generation parameters compared to placebo. In severe OSA patients, fibrin generation peaked at 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM rather than during the sleep period (midnight and 3:00 AM). These findings suggest a prothrombotic shift in the morning similar to individuals without OSA. There was no difference between CPAP and placebo on fibrin generation.
Determinants of bleeding phenotype in adult patients with moderate or severe von Willebrand disease
Authors: de Wee Eva M. , Sanders Yvonne V. , Mauser-Bunschoten Eveline P. , van der Bom Johanna G. , Degenaar-Dujardin Manon E. L. , Eikenboom Jeroen , de Goede-Bolder Arja , Laros-van Gorkom Britta A. P. , Meijer Karina , Hamulyák Karly , Nijziel Marten R. , Fijnvandraat Karin , Leebeek Frank W. G. ,   for the WiN study group
Published: August 2012

We performed a nation-wide cross-sectional study to evaluate determinants of bleeding symptoms in a large unselected cohort of adults with von Willebrand disease (VWD). VWD patients were included (n=664), based on lowest historically measured VWF:Ag and VWF:Act levels ≤30 U/dl. Menorrhagia (85%), cutaneous bleeding (77%), bleeding from minor wounds (77%) and oral-cavity bleeding (62%) occurred most frequently. Higher age was associated with a higher bleeding score (BS), determined according to Tosetto, in females. A 10 year increase in age was associated with 0.8 point (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.4–1.1) higher BS. Females had higher BS than males (median 12 vs. 10, p=0.012). BS differed significantly between VWD type 1, 2 and 3: median 9 (-2–31), 13 (-1–33) and 19.5 (1–35), respectively (p<0.001). BS was strongly associated with VWF and FVIII levels: individuals with VWF:Ag levels ≤10 IU/dl, VWF:Act ≤10 IU/dl and FVIII:C ≤10 IU/dl had, respectively, 5.3 point (95%CI 3.2–7.3), 4.3 point (95%CI 2.9–5.8) and 9.6 point (95%CI 6.5–12.7) higher BS, than those with levels >30 IU/dl. In type 3 patients 1 IU/dl FVIII:C decrease was associated with 0.6 point (95% CI 0.1–1.1) BS increase (p=0.021). In conclusion, in VWD patients the bleeding phenotype is strongly associated with type of VWD and VWF and FVIII levels.
Extracellular Acidification Activates cAMP Responsive Element Binding Protein via Na+/H+ Exchanger Isoform 1–Mediated Ca
2+
Oscillation in Central Nervous System Pericytes
Authors: Nakamura Kuniyuki , Kamouchi Masahiro , Arimura Koichi , Nishimura Ataru , Kuroda Junya , Ishitsuka Koji , Tokami Himiko , Sugimori Hiroshi , Ago Tetsuro , Kitazono Takanari
Published: August 2012

Objective—

We have previously shown that Na
+
/H
+
exchanger isoform 1 (NHE1) plays an important role in Ca
2+
signaling and cell proliferation in human central nervous system (CNS) pericytes. The aims of the present study were to elucidate how NHE1–induced Ca
2+
signaling during acidosis is transformed into cellular responses in CNS pericytes.

Methods and Results—

Human CNS pericytes were cultured, and the activation of cAMP responsive element–binding protein (CREB) was evaluated by Western blotting analysis, immunofluorescence, and luciferase assays. In human CNS pericytes, low extracellular Na
+
or low pH generated Ca
2+
oscillation and subsequently phosphorylated Ca
2+
/calmodulin-dependent kinase II (CaMKII) and CREB in a time-dependent manner. Focal cerebral ischemia was applied using photothrombotic distal middle cerebral artery occlusion in mice, and the phosphorylation of CREB and the production of interleukin-6 were observed in pericytes migrating into the peri-infarct penumbra during the early phase after ischemic insult.

Conclusion—

Our results indicate that extracellular acidosis induces Ca
2+
oscillation via NHE1, leading to Ca
2+
/CaMKII–dependent CREB activation in human CNS pericytes. Acidosis may upregulate a variety of proteins, such as interleukin-6, through the NHE1-Ca2+/CaMKII–CREB pathway in brain pericytes and may thus modulate brain ischemic insult.
Intermedin
Authors: Zhang Wei , Wang Li-Jun , Xiao Fei , Wei Yi , Ke Wei , Xin Hong-Bo
Published: August 2012

Objective—

Intermedin (IMD), a member of calcitonin family, was suggested to play a role in angiogenesis and cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of IMD in the angiogenic process and the underlying mechanism, and the possibility for it to be used as a target for angiogenesis-based anticancer therapies.

Methods and Results—

Using in vivo and in vitro 3-dimensional angiogenic models, we found that IMD induced a well-ordered vasculature with hierarchical structure and had a synergistic effect with vascular endothelial growth factor. Using RNA interference, real-time polymerase chain reaction, and Western blot analysis, we found that IMD alleviated the undesirable effects of vascular endothelial growth factor by restricting the excessive vessel sprouting and uneven lumen formation through the regulation of vascular endothelial-cadherin and identified its receptor on the endothelial cells. Both mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal–regulated kinase and phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt activation were involved in the effects. Furthermore, using experimental tumor models, we demonstrated that IMD was involved in tumor angiogenesis, and the blockade of IMD severely impaired blood supply and eventually inhibited tumor growth.

Conclusion—

We demonstrated that IMD played a critical role in the vascular remodeling process and tumor angiogenesis and may serve as a novel target for the development of angiogenesis-based anticancer therapies.
Role of
BMPR2
Alternative Splicing in Heritable Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Penetrance
Authors: Cogan Joy , Austin Eric , Hedges Lora , Womack Bethany , West James , Loyd James , Hamid Rizwan
Published: August 2012

Background—

Bone morphogenic protein receptor 2 (
BMPR2
) gene mutations are the most common cause of heritable pulmonary arterial hypertension. However, only 20% of mutation carriers get clinical disease. Here, we explored the hypothesis that this reduced penetrance is due in part to an alteration in
BMPR2
alternative splicing.

Methods and Results—

Our data showed that
BMPR2
has multiple alternative spliced variants. Two of these, isoform-A (full length) and isoform-B (missing exon 12), were expressed in all tissues analyzed. Analysis of cultured lymphocytes of 47
BMPR2
mutation–positive heritable pulmonary arterial hypertension patients and 35
BMPR2
mutation–positive unaffected carriers showed that patients had higher levels of isoform-B compared with isoform-A (B/A ratio) than carriers (
P
=0.002). Furthermore, compared with cells with a low B/A ratio, cells with a high B/A ratio had lower levels of unphosphorylated cofilin after BMP stimulation. Analysis of exon 12 sequences identified an exonic splice enhancer that binds serine arginine splicing factor 2 (
SRSF2
). Because
SRSF2
promotes exon inclusion, reduced
SRSF2
expression would mean that exon 12 would not be included in final
BMPR2
mRNA (thus promoting increased isoform-B formation). Western blot analysis showed that SRSF2 expression was lower in cells from patients compared with cells from carriers and that siRNA-mediated knockdown of
SRSF2
in pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells resulted in elevated levels of isoform-B compared with isoform-A, ie, an elevated B/A ratio.

Conclusions—

Alterations in
BMPR2
isoform ratios may provide an explanation of the reduced penetrance among
BMPR2
mutation carriers. This ratio is controlled by an exonic splice enhancer in exon 12 and its associated splicing factor, SRSF2.
Cerebral Hemodynamic Reserve and Vascular Remodeling in C57/BL6 Mice Are Influenced by Age
Authors: Hecht Nils , He Jin , Kremenetskaia Irina , Nieminen Melina , Vajkoczy Peter , Woitzik Johannes
Published: August 2012

Background and Purpose—

Age is the most important risk factor for ischemic stroke. Recent experiments evidenced an age-associated rarefaction of the native collateral vasculature. The purpose of this study was to assess in what way age and arteriogenesis influence cortical perfusion and recovery of hemodynamic impairment in aged and young C57/BL6 mice.

Methods—

After model establishment of chronic cerebral hypoperfusion in the C57/BL6 strain, sustained hemodynamic impairment was induced by permanent unilateral internal carotid artery occlusion in animals aged 4 to 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and 18 months. Functional and morphological outcome was assessed by laser speckle imaging before and during acetazolamide challenge on Days 0, 3, 7, and 14 and latex/carbon black angiography and immunohistochemistry on Day 21.

Results—

Although internal carotid artery occlusion did not result in a reduction of baseline perfusion, it led to significant hemodynamic impairment in all age groups. Furthermore, baseline perfusion in sham and cerebrovascular reactivity after internal carotid artery occlusion were significantly lower in animals aged 18 months (468±57 Flux; 20.8%±17%) compared with mice aged 4 to 6 weeks (568±120 Flux; 30.3%±17%) and 12 weeks (591±72 Flux; 34.2%±12%) from the beginning until Day 7 of the monitoring period. Functional outcome was in line with a 27% reduction of native leptomeningeal anastomoses in aged mice and only limited collateral outgrowth compared with young animals. Strikingly, all age groups reached spontaneous functional compensation by Day 14.

Conclusions—

Next to limited collateral remodeling, our results suggest that a hampered cerebrovascular response with age could intensify the risk for hemodynamic stroke in the elderly.
Increased Cerebral Arterial Pulsatility in Patients With Leukoaraiosis
Authors: Webb Alastair J.S. , Simoni Michela , Mazzucco Sara , Kuker Wilhelm , Schulz Ursula , Rothwell Peter M.
Published: August 2012

Background and Purpose—

Arterial stiffening reduces damping of the arterial waveform and hence increases pulsatility of cerebral blood flow, potentially damaging small vessels. In the absence of previous studies in patients with recent transient ischemic attack or stroke, we determined the associations between leukoaraiosis and aortic and middle cerebral artery stiffness and pulsatility.

Methods—

Patients were recruited from the Oxford Vascular Study within 6 weeks of a transient ischemic attack or minor stroke. Leukoaraiosis was categorized on MRI by 2 independent observers with the Fazekas and age-related white matter change scales. Middle cerebral artery (MCA) stiffness (transit time) and pulsatility (Gosling's index: MCA-PI) were measured with transcranial ultrasound and aortic pulse wave velocity and aortic systolic, diastolic, and pulse pressure with applanation tonometry (Sphygmocor).

Results—

In 100 patients, MCA-PI was significantly greater in patients with leukoaraiosis (0.91 versus 0.73,
P
<0.0001). Severity of leukoaraiosis was associated with MCA-PI and aortic pulse wave velocity (Fazekas: χ
2
=0.39, MCA-PI
P
=0.01, aortic pulse wave velocity
P
=0.06; age-related white matter change: χ
2
=0.38, MCA-PI
P
=0.015; aortic pulse wave velocity
P
=0.026) for periventricular and deep white matter lesions independent of aortic systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and pulse pressure and MCA transit time with MCA-PI independent of age. In a multivariate model (
r
2
=0.68,
P
<0.0001), MCA-PI was independently associated with aortic pulse wave velocity (
P
=0.016) and aortic pulse pressure (
P
<0.0001) and inversely associated with aortic diastolic blood pressure (
P
<0.0001) and MCA transit time (
P
=0.001).

Conclusions—

MCA pulsatility was the strongest physiological correlate of leukoaraiosis, independent of age, and was dependent on aortic diastolic blood pressure and pulse pressure and aortic and MCA stiffness, supporting the hypothesis that large artery stiffening results in increased arterial pulsatility with transmission to the cerebral small vessels resulting in leukoaraiosis.
Evaluation of Carotid Plaque Neovascularization Using Contrast Ultrasound
Authors: Jaipersad Anthony S. , Shantsila Alena , Silverman Stanley , Lip Gregory Y. H. , Shantsila Eduard
Published: August 2012

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is increasingly used to improve visualization of carotid arteries. However, its reproducibility and utility for clinical research are not well established. The aim of the present study was to assess reproducibility of detection of carotid artery wall neovascularization using CEUS. Complete sequenced CEUS images from 10 individuals were analyzed for the presence of carotid arterial wall neovascularization. The images were acquired using Philips CompactXtreme CX50 ultrasound unit with an L12-3 probe and Bracco SonoVue contrast agent. The carotid wall neovascularization was graded by 2 independent observers with inter-/intraobserver agreement (κ) calculated. Interobserver κ values for intraplaque neovascularization (mean [95% confidence interval]) were 0.67 (0.40-0.94) for the left side. Interobserver κ values for intraplaque neovascularization were 0.65 (0.38-0.92). No study-related complications were observed. The CEUS method although semiquantitative shows moderate-to-strong intra- and interagreement for the results and can be used for clinical research purpose.
Projected and Perceived Destination Brand Personalities
Authors: Kim Soyeon , Lehto Xinran Y.
Published: August 2012

A destination can seek to convey a certain brand personality through various branding strategies and advertising messages. However, consumers may interpret the communicated messages through the prism of their own perceptions and thus may respond differently to a brand message than was intended. This research attempted to understand the relationship between the perceived and projected destination brand personalities, using South Korea as a case in point. The projected destination personality was assessed through analyzing the contents of the official Korean tourism website, while the perceived destination personality was determined from a survey conducted among a sample of U.S. travelers. The findings revealed significant discrepancies between the two. This research established a methodological framework that could become a practical tool for tourism marketing organizations in their efforts to determine and eliminate potential destination personality incongruence.
Tourism Value Chain Governance
Authors: Song Haiyan , Liu Jingyan , Chen Gezhi
Published: August 2012

Over the past two decades, researchers and practitioners have given considerable attention to issues of tourism value chain governance. To establish a systematic understanding of the current research contributions and gaps, this study provides a review of published studies on the topic. Various dimensions of tourism value chain governance, namely, policy, destination management and marketing, integration of distribution channels, and sustainability of the tourism value chain, are examined. Content analysis is used to provide quantitative evidence and hence a more objective evaluation. The results show that research on tourism value chain governance remains limited, and the development of each dimension unbalanced. An agenda for future research is proposed, given the indications that both qualitative and quantitative investigations are needed to establish the most appropriate governance models for tourism value chains.
Does Adolescent Family Structure Predict Military Enlistment? A Comparison of Post–High School Activities
Authors: Spence Naomi J. , Henderson Kathryn A. , Elder Glen H.
Published: August 2012

This article investigates the link between adolescent family structure and the likelihood of military enlistment in young adulthood as compared with alternative post–high school activities. The authors use data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health and multinomial logistic regression analyses to compare the odds of military enlistment with college attendance or labor force involvement. They find that alternative family structures predict enlistment relative to college attendance. Living in a single-parent household during adolescence increased odds of military enlistment, but the effect is accounted for by socioeconomic status and early feelings of social isolation. Living with a stepparent or with neither biological parent more than doubles the odds of enlistment, independent of socioeconomic status, characteristics of parent–child relationships, or feelings of social isolation. Although college attendance is widely promoted as a valued post–high school activity, military service may offer a route to independence and a greater sense of belonging.
A remote sensing approach to biodiversity assessment and regionalization of the Canadian boreal forest
Authors: Powers Ryan P. , Coops Nicholas C. , Morgan Jessica L. , Wulder Michael A. , Nelson Trisalyn A. , Drever Charles R. , Cumming Steven G.
Published: August 2012

Successful conservation planning for the Canadian boreal forest requires biodiversity data that are both accessible and reliable. Spatially exhaustive data is required to inform on conditions, trends and context, with context enabling consideration of conservation opportunities and related trade-offs. However, conventional methods for measuring biodiversity, while useful, are spatially constrained, making it difficult to apply over wide geographic regions. Increasingly, remotely sensed imagery and methods are seen as a viable approach for acquiring explicit, repeatable and multi-scale biodiversity data over large areas. To identify relevant remotely derived environmental indicators specific to biodiversity within the Canadian boreal forest, we assessed indicators of the physical environment such as seasonal snow cover, topography and vegetation production. Specifically, we determined if the indicators provided distinct information and whether they were useful predictors of species richness (tree, mammal, bird and butterfly species). Using cluster analysis, we also assessed the applicability of these indicators for broad ecosystem classification of the Canadian boreal forest and the subsequent attribution of these stratified regions (i.e. clusters). Our results reveal that the indicators used in the cluster creation provided unique information and explained much of the variance in tree (92.6%), bird (84.07%), butterfly (61.4%) and mammal (22.6%) species richness. Spring snow cover explained the most variance in species richness. Results further show that the 15 clusters produced using cluster analysis were principally stratified along a latitudinal gradient and, while varied in size, captured a range of different environmental conditions across the Canadian boreal forest. The most important indicators for discriminating between the different cluster groups were seasonal greenness, a multipart measure of climate, topography and land use, and wetland cover, a measure of the percentage of wetland within a 1 km2 cell.
The Emotionality of Participation
Authors: Diphoorn Tessa
Published: August 2012

This article explores methodological issues as a prominent subject in ethnographic fieldwork conducted on a specific group of private security officers, namely, armed response officers, in Durban, South Africa. Through analyzing several experiences from the field, this article highlights the dialectic between emotions and participation in the field and its imperative role in analysis of the research setting. This article explores three different modes of participation, namely, active participation, reluctant participation, and passive participation. As a heuristic device, such a typology allows us as researchers to analyze our position, as participants, in relation to other research participants. This exemplifies the importance of the emotionality of field experiences in researching violence (and the perpetrators of violence).
The mechanical and tribological properties of grafted LDPE-filled SiO2/PTFE composite
Authors: Chang Daofang , Huang Youfang , Tang Gang , Huang Jiahui , Huang Wanjuan
Published: August 2012

In this article, low-density polyethylene (LDPE) rubber and silica (SiO2) particles were employed to modify polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE) simultaneously. The distribution and dispersion of LDPE and SiO2 particles in PTFE matrix can be adjusted by the wettability of SiO2 particles toward PTFE and LDPE, so as to achieve a simultaneous enhancement of toughness and modulus of PTFE. A unique structure with the majority of PTFE surrounded by SiO2 particles was first observed using maleic anhydride (MAH)-grafted LDPE, resulting in a dramatical increase in Izod impact strength as the rubber content in the range of brittle–ductile transition (4–16 wt%). The friction and wear properties were obviously improved with the addition of MAH-grafted LDPE regardless of the content of SiO2.
Nonword-Repetition Ability Does Not Appear to Be a Causal Influence on Children’s Vocabulary Development
Authors: Melby-Lervåg Monica , Lervåg Arne , Lyster Solveig-Alma Halaas , Klem Marianne , Hagtvet Bente , Hulme Charles
Published: August 2012

In the study reported here, we assessed the theory that vocabulary learning in children depends critically on the capacity of a “phonological loop” that is indexed by nonword-repetition ability. A 3-year longitudinal study of 219 children assessed nonword-repetition ability and vocabulary knowledge at yearly intervals between the ages of 4 and 7 years. There was a considerable degree of longitudinal stability in children’s vocabulary and nonword-repetition skills, but there was no evidence of any influence of nonword-repetition ability on later vocabulary knowledge. These results seriously call into question the claim that vocabulary learning in children is constrained by nonword-repetition ability, and they cast doubt on the broader theory that the phonological loop functions as a language-learning device.
Efficacy of mycophenolate mofetil in adolescent patients with lupus nephritis: evidence from a two-phase, prospective randomized trial
Authors: Sundel R , Solomons N , Lisk L ,   Aspreva Lupus Management Study (ALMS) Group
Published: August 2012

The safety and efficacy of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) were evaluated in adolescent patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and active or active/chronic class III–V lupus nephritis. During the 24-week induction phase, patients were randomized to oral MMF (target dose 3.0 g/day) or intravenous cyclophosphamide (IVC) (0.5–1.0 g/m2/month), plus prednisone. Response was defined as a decrease in 24-hour urine protein:creatinine ratio (P:Cr) to <3 in patients with baseline nephrotic range proteinuria, or by ≥50% if subnephrotic baseline proteinuria, and stabilization (±25%) or improvement in serum creatinine. In the 36-month maintenance phase, induction therapy responders were randomized 1:1 to MMF (1.0 g twice daily) or oral azathioprine (AZA) (2 mg/kg/day), plus prednisone. In the induction phase, 10 patients received MMF and 14 received IVC; 15 (62.5%) achieved treatment response (MMF, 7 (70%); IVC, 8/15 (57.1%); p = 0.53, odds ratio (95% confidence interval) 2.0 (0.2, 15.5)). There was a non-statistically significant difference in maintenance of response to MMF (7/8; 87.5%) versus AZA (3/8; 37.5%). Seven patients withdrew (MMF, 2; AZA, 5). During both phases, rates of serious adverse events were similar in both arms. During both phases treatment response with MMF was as effective as the comparator.
Towards a Transformative Paradigm in the UK Response to Forced Marriage
Authors: Shariff Fauzia
Published: August 2012

Government plans to criminalise forced marriage have intensified debate over how to address the practice without alienating communities. Feminist and Critical Race literature on forced marriage castigates the government for treating forced marriage as a cultural event fostered by a deviant and alien ‘other’ and for seeking to ‘liberate’ women from their culture, but itself views community with suspicion and denies subject agency. Re-examining policy developments through personal experience – setting up the Forced Marriage Unit – I excavate the now forgotten imperative of community engagement and how government became invested in its exclusion. Given the porosity of the forced–arranged marriage distinction I then examine why engaging community is important. Young British Asians’ experience of the marriage process puts high value on family and community involvement. This power-laden paradigm, where consensus is valued over the Western liberal concept of ‘free consent’, is the context into which government policy must fit.
Patient Perceptions of the Path to Osteoporosis Care Following a Fragility Fracture
Authors: Beaton Dorcas E. , Sujic Rebeka , McIlroy Beaton Kristin , Sale Joanna , Elliot-Gibson Victoria , Bogoch Earl R.
Published: August 2012

Coordinator-based osteoporosis (OP) screening programs for fragility-fracture patients in orthopedic environments improve rates of OP testing and care, but there are still gaps in care. The purpose of this study was to understand the process by which patients decided whether to proceed with OP testing or care within these programs. Twenty-four fragility-fracture patients in the OP screening program at a large, urban, university hospital in Canada participated in one of five focus groups. Focus group transcripts were sorted and coded. Links between themes were developed to generate a description of the process leading to successful initiation of OP care after a fragility fracture. To initiate OP testing and care, patients had to both comprehend the link between their fragility fracture and OP, and make an action-oriented appraisal of what action to take. Several modifiable facilitators and barriers influenced the process between screening and undergoing OP testing and initiating treatment.
Mexican Immigrants’ and Mexican Americans’ Perceptions of Hypertension
Authors: Barnes Donelle M. , Lu Julie Hue
Published: August 2012

Although the rate of hypertension (HTN) is no higher for Mexican-origin clients than for non-Hispanic Whites, their rate of blood pressure (BP) control is lower. To effectively assist clients with their BP, health care providers must first understand barriers and facilitators to BP control from the clients’ perspectives. The purpose of this study was to describe the experience of living with HTN for Mexican immigrants and Mexican Americans. A phenomenological method was appropriate to describe their lived experience. We conducted one-time interviews with 26 adults who self-identified as Mexican-origin. Some participants did not know what caused HTN and others believed in causes they could control. Many believed HTN was of short duration. Some participants forgot to take medication or were not able to afford it. Mexican-origin clients need more assistance with BP control, and need it in both English and Spanish.
Public Health Insurance Eligibility and Labor Force Participation of Low-Income Childless Adults
Authors: Guy Gery P. , Atherly Adam , Adams E. Kathleen
Published: August 2012

The Affordable Care Act aims to substantially increase public health insurance eligibility among low-income childless adults. The literature suggests that public health insurance may have important implications for labor market participation. With data from the March supplement to the Current Population Survey, difference-in-difference multivariable regression modeling is used to examine the association between state-level public health insurance expansions and the likelihood of full-time employment, part-time employment, and not working among eligible childless adults. Results indicate that public health insurance eligibility is associated with a 2.2 percentage point decrease in full-time employment, a 0.8 percentage point increase in the likelihood of part-time employment, and a 1.4 percentage point increase in the likelihood of not working. These associations were greatest among those with worse health and those aged from 50 to 64 years. This analysis provides important insights into the potential labor market repercussions of health insurance expansions under the Affordable Care Act.
Single and Multiple Microphone Noise Reduction Strategies in Cochlear Implants
Authors: Kokkinakis Kostas , Azimi Behnam , Hu Yi , Friedland David R.
Published: August 2012

To restore hearing sensation, cochlear implants deliver electrical pulses to the auditory nerve by relying on sophisticated signal processing algorithms that convert acoustic inputs to electrical stimuli. Although individuals fitted with cochlear implants perform well in quiet, in the presence of background noise, the speech intelligibility of cochlear implant listeners is more susceptible to background noise than that of normal hearing listeners. Traditionally, to increase performance in noise, single-microphone noise reduction strategies have been used. More recently, a number of approaches have suggested that speech intelligibility in noise can be improved further by making use of two or more microphones, instead. Processing strategies based on multiple microphones can better exploit the spatial diversity of speech and noise because such strategies rely mostly on spatial information about the relative position of competing sound sources. In this article, we identify and elucidate the most significant theoretical aspects that underpin single- and multi-microphone noise reduction strategies for cochlear implants. More analytically, we focus on strategies of both types that have been shown to be promising for use in current-generation implant devices. We present data from past and more recent studies, and furthermore we outline the direction that future research in the area of noise reduction for cochlear implants could follow.
The Group Discussion Effect
Authors: Meleady Rose , Hopthrow Tim , Crisp Richard J.
Published: August 2012

One of the most consistent findings in experimental social dilemmas research is the positive effect group discussion has on cooperative behavior. At a time when cooperation and consensus is critical to tackle global problems, ranging from debt to deforestation, understanding the dynamics of group discussion is a pressing need. Unfortunately, research investigating the underlying processes and implementation of the effect has been inconclusive. The authors present a critical review of existing explanations and integrate these perspectives into a single process model of group discussion, providing a more complete theoretical picture of how interrelated factors combine to facilitate discussion-induced cooperation. On the basis of this theoretical analysis, they consider complimentary approaches to the indirect and feasible implementation of group discussion. They argue that such strategies may overcome the barriers to direct discussion observed across a range of groups and organizations.
A Biobehavioral Approach to Understanding Obesity and the Development of Obesogenic Illnesses Among Latino Immigrants in the United States
Authors: D’Alonzo Karen T. , Johnson Shanda , Fanfan Dany
Published: August 2012

The prevalence of obesity and obesity-related illnesses is higher among Hispanics (Latinos) than other racial and ethnic groups, and rates increase exponentially with the number of years living in the United States. Mounting evidence suggests that the origins of many chronic illnesses among disadvantaged minority groups may lie with cumulative exposure to chronic psychological and physiological stressors through the biobehavioral process of allostatic load (AL). Among immigrant Latinos, acculturation stress may contribute to an increase in AL and thus may be an independent risk factor for the development of obesity and obesogenic illnesses. The purpose of this theoretical article is to present a proposed model of the effects of acculturation stress on AL and obesity among Latino immigrants. Such a model can be useful to guide intervention efforts to decrease obesity among immigrant Latinos by adding education, skill building, and social integration strategies to healthy eating and physical activity to reduce the deleterious impact of acculturation stress.
Combined effect of polypropylene fiber and silica fume on workability and carbonation resistance of concrete composite containing fly ash
Authors: Zhang Peng , Li Qing-Fu
Published: August 2012

A parametric experimental study has been conducted to investigate the combined effect of polypropylene fiber and silica fume on the workability and carbonation resistance of concrete composite containing fly ash. Five different fiber volume fractions, four contents of fly ash and four silica fume contents were used. The results indicate that the workability of the concrete composite becomes better and better by increasing the fly ash content. The addition of fly ash has lowered the carbonation resistance of concrete composite, and the carbonation resistance is decreasing gradually with the increase of fly ash content. Besides, the addition of silica fume can evidently improve the carbonation resistance of concrete composites containing fly ash, and the carbonation resistance is becoming better and better as the silica fume content is increasing gradually. In addition, polypropylene fiber can greatly improve the carbonation resistance of concrete composites containing fly ash and silica fume, and there is a tendency of increase in the carbonation resistance with the increase of fiber volume fraction as the fiber volume fraction is below 0.12%. However, the addition of silica fume and polypropylene fiber has a little adverse effect on the workability of the concrete composites.
Network governance and regional equity: Shared agendas or problematic partners?
Authors: Lester T William , Reckhow Sarah
Published: August 2012

Over the past decade, scholars from various fields have argued that the salience of the metropolitan region as a scale of real economic interaction and public intervention has increased significantly. Simultaneously, many scholars have identified a shift in governing processes away from formal bureaucratic forms toward “network governance.” This article joins these fields by (1) evaluating the challenges and opportunities posed by network governance systems in a range of policy venues from the local to the global level, and (2) applying these insights to the problem of economic inequality within metropolitan regions and the multiple efforts to address it. Although we are sympathetic with the goals of regional equity and the participatory promise of network governance, our objective is to paint a realistic picture of the limits to joining these agendas. We conclude that, for equity issues, public deliberation does not take place around one fixed “table”—limiting the usefulness of much of the governance literature. Instead, public deliberation around social equity occurs in an evolutionary manner as members of progressive networks engage networks of business and pro-growth interests in a series of skirmishes throughout a region and over time. More often than not, these exchanges occur at “real scales” such as city-council chambers or state legislatures, and involve traditional forms of political action rather than “network governance” per se.
The longue durée of community engagement: New applications of critical theory in planning research
Authors: Matthews Peter
Published: August 2012

Habermas’ critical theory, and particularly his theory of communicative action, has been applied in the theory and practice of communicative planning. The concept of creating a public sphere in planning processes has been used as an ‘ought’ that planners should seek to achieve to create a communicative rationality. Accepting some of the critique of communicative planning from an agonist and Foucauldian perspective, this paper presents a new application of Habermas’ critical theory. Evidence is presented from community activists in two neighbourhoods of their ongoing reflection on the changes to their built environment over 20 years of regeneration. In this context, Habermas’ theoretical work does explain the long-term discourse as the community moved towards a shared consensus on their neighbourhood. This is used to suggest that instead of looking for consensus in the tense conflicting of moments of initial engagement, planners should focus on the longue durée, and the Lifeworld of lived experience, where shared subjectivities over the built environment can develop.
The Future of School Nursing
Authors: Fleming Robin
Published: August 2012

This article provides analysis and commentary on the cultural roots that promote the provision of minor first aid in schools by school nurses. Using the Institute of Medicine’s Future of Nursing report as a lens, this article illustrates how the focus on provision of first aid by school nurses dilutes larger public health contributions that school nurses could make if they were able to work to the full extent of their education, training and licensure. The article concludes with recommendations designed to support fuller use of nurses’ scope of practice in schools
Comedy, the Civic Subject, and Generic Mediation
Authors: Corner John , Richardson Kay , Parry Katy
Published: August 2012

This article explores the contribution of comedy to the mediation of politics in a number of genres outside the core forms of journalism. Using material collected during an extensive study of diverse media treatments of British politics, it raises questions about the functions that comedy performs within civic culture and civic subjectivity, giving emphasis to broadcasting. Selected accounts from respondent groups are used to investigate further the ways in which comedy contributes to the placing of politics within the everyday and to the naturalization, or questioning, of the power relations at work. The article concludes by suggesting that further work on comic treatments, alongside studies of other sources of political information and commentary, will be a valuable aspect of research on political culture.
The Team Online
Authors: Tully Melissa , Ekdale Brian
Published: August 2012

This article examines an entertainment-education program, The Team, which began airing in Kenya after the 2007–2008 postelection violence. The show promotes cooperation and national unity among Kenyans through the metaphor of Kenya as a football (soccer) team. The focus of this article is twofold: viewers’ identification with and reaction to certain morally ambiguous characters and audience members’ interaction with the program through the online social networking site Facebook. We argue that the producers’ attempt to create less didactic storylines and more complex characters resulted in unanticipated audience opposition to the death of a character the producers understood to be negative but audience members viewed as sympathetic. Second, the adoption of social media resulted in less controlled discussions in which Facebook users occasionally questioned, challenged, and sought to reshape the producers’ goals and strategies.
Adhesion strength behaviour of plasma pre-treated and laminated polypropylene nonwoven fabrics using acrylic and polyurethane-based adhesives
Authors: Armağan Osman Gazi , Kayaoglu Burcak Karaguzel , Karakas Hale Canbaz , Guner Fatma Seniha
Published: August 2012

The adhesion strength enhancement of oxygen plasma pre-treated laminated polypropylene nonwoven fabrics using two different types of adhesives was investigated in this study. Fabric surface modification was performed using low-pressure, radio-frequency oxygen plasma treatment. Effect of plasma treatment on fabric surface wettability was determined by vertical wicking measurements. Wettability of highly hydrophobic polypropylene nonwoven samples dramatically increased with increasing plasma power and exposure time. Plasma-treated polypropylene fibers showed rougher surfaces with increased plasma power and treatment times. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis showed that oxygen plasma treatment of polypropylene fiber surface led to a significant increase in atomic percentage of oxygen compound responsible for hydrophilic surface. Peel strength enhancement of produced laminated fabrics was observed for plasma-treated samples compared to untreated samples. PU-based adhesive attached on the surface of both plasma-treated and untreated polypropylene nonwoven, filling the spaces between the fibers due to the penetration of the adhesive agent. The improvement in surface wettability of polypropylene nonwoven and the introduced sites through oxygen plasma treatment resulted in good adhesive bonding. For both adhesives, peel strength improvement of produced laminated fabrics was observed for plasma-treated samples compared to untreated ones. After lamination with polyurethane-based adhesive and 20 wash cycles, decrease in peel bond strength was between 22% and 25% for plasma-treated samples, while it was 36% for untreated fabrics. Laminated samples using acrylic-based adhesives showed much lower peel strength values and washing resistance than samples laminated with polyurethane-based adhesives.
Pacific Crossing? From the American Bungalow Court to the Australian Cul-de-sac
Authors: Freestone Robert , Nichols David
Published: August 2012

A distinctive feature of suburban development in Melbourne, Australia, from the late 1920s was the fully serviced cul-de-sac subdivision in which houses, gardens, streetscape, and infrastructure were conceived as a planned entity. The typology can be linked to the Californian bungalow court concept, transmitted via professional journals, trade magazines, and study tours. While the standard American model evolved toward denser clusters of urban apartment buildings, the Melbourne paradigm remained resolutely suburban. The first planned estates in the 1920s featured detached, middle-class houses fronting handsome public streets. Later developments were less bespoke and connect to the rapid expansion of the cul-de-sac form in postwar suburban housing estates. In mass production, the holistic, collective integrity of the Pasadena prototype proved difficult to discern.
Spatial Transformation of Jerusalem
Authors: Thawaba Salem , Al-Rimmawi Hussein
Published: August 2012

This article investigates the spatial transformation of the holy city of Jerusalem from 1967 to present. Since the middle of nineteenth century, new foreign Jewish and other immigrants played a great role in changing the traditional landscape of this holy city. At present, this holy city is being transformed into segregated neighborhoods. New mega urban projects are being constructed regardless of the holiness of the place, in order to change its identity as well as its demographic balance. Only just and lasting peace between Palestinians and Israelis is the only guarantee to keep Jerusalem’s traditional landscape in place and at the same it may be modernized.
Sono-synthesis of polystyrene/alumina nanocomposites
Authors: Philip Mercy Anna , Natarajan Upendra , Nagarajan Ramamurthy
Published: August 2012

Polymer nanocomposites offer remarkable enhancement in properties compared to pristine polymers, and also compared to conventional micro- and macro-composites. The present study is focused on the preparation of nanocomposites by the usage of ultrasound. Polystyrene/alumina nanocomposites were synthesized using commercial alumina nanoparticles of approximately 200 nm size. These particles were dispersed in polystyrene solution by subjecting to ultrasound. Composites were synthesized at different filler loadings varying from 0.2% to 1% by weight. Dispersion characterization of these composites was carried out using scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. X-ray diffraction data revealed the incorporation of the filler into the polymer matrix. The mechanical properties, mainly tensile and impact properties, of the composites were studied to analyse the effect of nanofillers on the enhancement in functional properties compared to the neat polymer. Tensile strength and modulus varied with the filler loading in the polymer matrix. Theoretical prediction of the composite modulus was done using existing micromechanical models such as Halpin–Tsai and Mori–Tanaka. A comparison was made between the experimental moduli and the predicted values. Cavitation erosion studies were conducted on the composites and the mass eroded was quantified.