bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Mitral Regurgitation Repair on Survival in the Surgical Treatment for Ischemic Heart Failure Trial
Authors: Deja Marek A. , Grayburn Paul A. , Sun Benjamin , Rao Vivek , She Lilin , Krejca Michał , Jain Anil R. , Leng Chua Yeow , Daly Richard , Senni Michele , Mokrzycki Krzysztof , Menicanti Lorenzo , Oh Jae K. , Michler Robert , Wróbel Krzysztof , Lamy Andre , Velazquez Eric J. , Lee Kerry L. , Jones Robert H.
Published: May 2012

Background—

Whether mitral valve repair during coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) improves survival in patients with ischemic mitral regurgitation (MR) remains unknown.

Methods and Results—

Patients with ejection fraction ≤35% and coronary artery disease amenable to CABG were randomized at 99 sites worldwide to medical therapy with or without CABG. The decision to treat the mitral valve during CABG was left to the surgeon. The primary end point was mortality. Of 1212 randomized patients, 435 (36%) had none/trace MR, 554 (46%) had mild MR, 181 (15%) had moderate MR, and 39 (3%) had severe MR. In the medical arm, 70 deaths (32%) occurred in patients with none/trace MR, 114 (44%) in those with mild MR, and 58 (50%) in those with moderate to severe MR. In patients with moderate to severe MR, there were 29 deaths (53%) among 55 patients randomized to CABG who did not receive mitral surgery (hazard ratio versus medical therapy, 1.20; 95% confidence interval, 0.77–1.87) and 21 deaths (43%) among 49 patients who received mitral surgery (hazard ratio versus medical therapy, 0.62; 95% confidence interval, 0.35–1.08). After adjustment for baseline prognostic variables, the hazard ratio for CABG with mitral surgery versus CABG alone was 0.41 (95% confidence interval, 0.22–0.77;
P
=0.006).

Conclusion—

Although these observational data suggest that adding mitral valve repair to CABG in patients with left ventricular dysfunction and moderate to severe MR may improve survival compared with CABG alone or medical therapy alone, a prospective randomized trial is necessary to confirm the validity of these observations.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00023595.
Noninvasive Assessment of Myocardial Inflammation by Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance in a Rat Model of Experimental Autoimmune Myocarditis
Authors: Moon Hyeyoung , Park Hyo Eun , Kang Jongeun , Lee Hyunseung , Cheong Chaejoon , Lim Yong Taik , Ihm Sang-Hyun , Seung Ki-Bae , Jaffer Farouc A. , Narula Jagat , Chang Kiyuk , Hong Kwan Soo
Published: May 2012

Background—

Limited availability of noninvasive and biologically precise diagnostic tools poses a challenge for the evaluation and management of patients with myocarditis.

Methods and Results—

The feasibility of cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging with magneto-fluorescent nanoparticles (MNPs) for detection of myocarditis and its effectiveness in discriminating inflammation grades were assessed in experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM) (n=65) and control (n=10) rats. After undergoing CMR, rats were administered with MNPs, followed by a second CMR 24 hours later. Head-to-head comparison of MNP-CMR with T
2
-weighted, early and late gadolinium enhancement CMR was performed in additional EAM (n=10) and control (n=5) rats. Contrast-to-noise ratios were measured and compared between groups. Flow cytometry and microscopy demonstrated that infiltrating inflammatory cells engulfed MNPs, resulting in altered myocardial T
2
* effect. Changes in contrast-to-noise ratio between pre- and post-MNP CMR were significantly greater in EAM rats (1.08±0.10 versus 0.48±0.20;
P
<0.001). In addition, contrast-to-noise ratio measurement in MNP-CMR clearly detected the extent of inflammation (
P
<0.001) except for mild inflammation. Compared with conventional CMR, MNP-CMR provided better image contrast (CNR change 8% versus 46%,
P
<0.001) and detectability of focal myocardial inflammation. Notably, MNP-CMR successfully tracked the evolution of myocardial inflammation in the same EAM rats.

Conclusions—

Magneto-fluorescent nanoparticle CMR permitted effective visualization of myocardial inflammatory cellular infiltrates and distinction of the extent of inflammation compared with conventional CMR in a preclinical model of EAM. Magneto-fluorescent nanoparticle CMR performs best in EAM rats with at least moderate inflammatory response.
1981–2010 U.S. Hourly Normals
Authors: Applequist Scott , Arguez Anthony , Durre Imke , Squires Michael F. , Vose Russell S. , Yin Xungang
Published: May 2012

The 1981–2010 U.S. Climate Normals released by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) National Climatic Data Center (NCDC) include a suite of descriptive statistics based on hourly observations. For each hour and day of the year, statistics of temperature, dew point, mean sea level pressure, wind, clouds, heat index, wind chill, and heating and cooling degree hours are provided as 30-year averages, frequencies of occurrence, and percentiles. These hourly normals are available for 262 locations, primarily major airports, from across the United States and its Pacific territories. We encourage use of these products specifically for examination of the diurnal cycle of a particular variable, and how that change may shift over the annual cycle.
NOAA's 1981–2010 U.S. Climate Normals: An Overview
Authors: Arguez Anthony , Durre Imke , Applequist Scott , Vose Russell S. , Squires Michael F. , Yin Xungang , Heim Richard R. , Owen Timothy W.
Published: May 2012

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) released the 1981–2010 U.S. Climate Normals in July 2011, representing the latest decadal installment of this long-standing product line. Climatic averages (and other statistics) of temperature, precipitation, snowfall, and numerous derived quantities were calculated for ~9,800 stations operated by the U.S. National Weather Service (NWS). They include estimated normals, or “quasi normals,” for approximately 2,000 active short-record stations such as those in the U.S. Climate Reference Network. The 1981–2010 installment features several new products and methodological enhancements: 1) state-of-the-art temperature homogenization at the monthly scale, 2) extensive utilization of quality-controlled daily climate data, 3) new statistical approaches for calculating daily temperature normals and heating and cooling degree days, and 4) a comprehensive suite of precipitation, snowfall, and snow depth statistics. This paper provides a general overview of this new suite of climate normals products.
Raindrop Size Distribution and Radar Parameters in Coastal Tropical Rain Systems of Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Tenório Ricardo Sarmento , Cristina da Silva Moraes Marcia , Sauvageot Henri
Published: May 2012

A dataset on raindrop size distribution (DSD) gathered in a coastal site of the Alagoas state in northeastern Brazil is used to analyze some differences between continental and maritime rainfall parameters. The dataset is divided into two subsets. One is composed of rainfall systems coming from the continent and moving eastward (i.e., offshore), representing the continental subset. The other is composed of rainfall systems that developed over the sea and are moving westward (i.e., inshore), representing the maritime subset. The mean conditional rain rate (i.e., for rain rate R > 0) is found to be higher for maritime (4.6 mm h−1) than for continental (3.2 mm h−1) conditions. The coefficient of variation of the conditional rain rate is lower for the maritime (1.75) than for the continental (2.25) subset. The continental and maritime DSDs display significant differences. For drop diameter D smaller than about 2 mm, the number of drops is higher for maritime rain than for continental rain. This reverses for D > 2 mm, in such a way that radar reflectivity factor Z for the maritime case is lower than for the continental case at the same rain rate. These results show that, to estimate precipitation by radar in the coastal area of northeastern Brazil, coefficients of the Z–R relation need to be adapted to the direction of motion of the rain-bearing system, inshore or offshore.
A Comparative Analysis of Upper-Ocean Heat Content Variability from an Ensemble of Operational Ocean Reanalyses
Authors: Xue Yan , Balmaseda Magdalena A. , Boyer Tim , Ferry Nicolas , Good Simon , Ishikawa Ichiro , Kumar Arun , Rienecker Michele , Rosati Anthony J. , Yin Yonghong
Published: May 2012

Ocean heat content (HC) is one of the key indicators of climate variability and also provides ocean memory critical for seasonal and decadal predictions. The availability of multiple operational ocean analyses (ORAs) now routinely produced around the world is an opportunity for estimation of uncertainties in HC analysis and development of ensemble-based operational HC climate indices. In this context, the spread across the ORAs is used to quantify uncertainties in HC analysis and the ensemble mean of ORAs to identify, and to monitor, climate signals. Toward this goal, this study analyzed 10 ORAs, two objective analyses based on in situ data only, and eight model analyses based on ocean data assimilation systems. The mean, annual cycle, interannual variability, and long-term trend of HC in the upper 300 m (HC300) from 1980 to 2009 are compared.

The spread across HC300 analyses generally decreased with time and reached a minimum in the early 2000s when the Argo data became available. There was a good correspondence between the increase of data counts and reduction of the spread. The agreement of HC300 anomalies among different ORAs, measured by the signal-to-noise ratio (S/N), is generally high in the tropical Pacific, tropical Indian Ocean, North Pacific, and North Atlantic but low in the tropical Atlantic and extratropical southern oceans where observations are very sparse. A set of climate indices was derived as HC300 anomalies averaged over the areas where the covariability between SST and HC300 represents the major climate modes such as ENSO, Indian Ocean dipole, Atlantic Niño, Pacific decadal oscillation, and Atlantic multidecadal oscillation.
Mechanisms Contributing to the Warming Hole and the Consequent U.S. East–West Differential of Heat Extremes
Authors: Meehl Gerald A. , Arblaster Julie M. , Branstator Grant
Published: May 2012

A linear trend calculated for observed annual mean surface air temperatures over the United States for the second-half of the twentieth century shows a slight cooling over the southeastern part of the country, the so-called warming hole, while temperatures over the rest of the country rose significantly. This east–west gradient of average temperature change has contributed to the observed pattern of changes of record temperatures as given by the ratio of daily record high temperatures to record low temperatures with a comparable east–west gradient. Ensemble averages of twentieth-century climate simulations in the Community Climate System Model, version 3 (CCSM3), show a slight west–east warming gradient but no warming hole. A warming hole appears in only several ensemble members in the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 3 (CMIP3) multimodel dataset and in one ensemble member of simulated twentieth-century climate in CCSM3. In this model the warming hole is produced mostly from internal decadal time-scale variability originating mainly from the equatorial central Pacific associated with the Interdecadal Pacific Oscillation (IPO). Analyses of a long control run of the coupled model, and specified convective heating anomaly experiments in the atmosphere-only version of the model, trace the forcing of the warming hole to positive convective heating anomalies in the central equatorial Pacific Ocean near the date line. Cold-air advection into the southeastern United States in winter, and low-level moisture convergence in that region in summer, contribute most to the warming hole in those seasons. Projections show a disappearance of the warming hole, but ongoing greater surface temperature increases in the western United States compared to the eastern United States.
Propagating Atmospheric Patterns Associated with Midwest Winter Precipitation
Authors: Strong Courtenay , Liptak Jessica
Published: May 2012

For winters over eastern North America, complex Hilbert empirical orthogonal function (HEOF) analysis was used to objectively identify propagating patterns in four atmospheric fields that have potential relevance to precipitation: jet stream–level wind speed, 850-hPa moisture transport (qv), temperature advection (TA), and vorticity advection (VA). A novel phase shift method was used to show the location where each propagating pattern was most correlated with Midwest precipitation, and each of the four phase-shifted HEOF patterns was compared to its respective high-precipitation composite view. The leading HEOFs of the three transport fields (qv, TA, and VA), which collectively represented the dynamics associated with a midlatitude cyclone, accounted for almost half of Midwest precipitation variability and were associated with lake effect snow when propagating downstream from the Midwest. Correlation and spectral analyses revealed how the propagating transport patterns were related to the Pacific–North American pattern and other teleconnections. The leading HEOF of jet stream–level wind speed, which represented the tendency for the jet stream to migrate equatorward over the study region during winter, accounted for only about 4% of Midwest daily precipitation variability. In contrast, the second HEOF of jet stream–level wind speed, which represented an eastward propagating trough dynamically consistent with a midlatitude cyclone, accounted for 16% of Midwest daily precipitation variability.
Implications of Representing Snowpack Stratigraphy for the Assimilation of Passive Microwave Satellite Observations
Authors: Andreadis Konstantinos M. , Lettenmaier Dennis P.
Published: May 2012

Under certain conditions, passive microwave satellite observations can be used to estimate snow water equivalent (SWE) across large areas, either through direct retrieval or data assimilation. However, the layered character of snowpacks increases the complexities of estimation algorithms. A multilayer model of snowpack stratigraphy that can serve as the forward model of a snow data assimilation system is described and evaluated. The model’s ability to replicate large-scale snowpack layer features is evaluated using observations from the Cold Land Processes Experiment (Colorado, 2002 and 2003) and a 2002 Nome–Barrow snowpit transect [Snow Science Traverse—Alaska Region (SnowSTAR2002)]. The multilayer model linked with a radiative transfer scheme improved the estimation of brightness temperatures both in terms of absolute values and frequency/polarization differences (error reductions ranging from 47% to 72%) relative to a one-layer model with similar, but depth-averaged, physics at the Colorado sites. The two models were also employed along the SnowSTAR2002 transect of snowpit measurements. The general unavailability of meteorological forcings along the transect made the use of coarse-scale reanalysis data necessary to simulate snow properties and microwave radiances. Errors in the precipitation forcings led to overestimation of SWE, and the simulated brightness temperatures from the two models showed large differences, due mostly to the inability of the single-layer model to simulate the observed larger grain sizes. These differences had implications for the estimation of snow depth; assimilation of Special Sensor Microwave Imager (SSM/I) observations into the multilayer model resulted in improved snow depth estimates (RMSEs of 18.1 cm versus 34.1 cm without assimilation), while the single-layer assimilation slightly decreased the estimation skill (RMSEs of 34.1 versus 33.6 cm).
Two-Component Horizontal Aerosol Motion Vectors in the Atmospheric Surface Layer from a Cross-Correlation Algorithm Applied to Scanning Elastic Backscatter Lidar Data*
Authors: Mayor Shane D. , Lowe Jennifer P. , Mauzey Christopher F.
Published: May 2012

Two-component horizontal motion vectors of aerosol features were calculated by applying a cross-correlation algorithm to square image blocks extracted from consecutive pairs of elastic backscatter lidar scans. The resulting vector components were compared with corresponding horizontal wind components from tower-mounted sonic anemometers located at the center of the image blocks. In the analysis 180 245 pairs of vectors derived from 75 days of field data collected between 19 March and 11 June 2007 were used. Examples of time series comparisons from 4-h periods during light, strong, and changing wind conditions are presented. Mean signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) of the block backscatter data, maxima of the cross-correlation functions (CCFs), observed wind speed, and turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) were also calculated for each velocity component comparison. The correlation between the lidar-derived motion components and sonic anemometer wind components tends to be highest during light wind conditions with low TKE. An empirical relationship is presented that enables the elimination of vectors that are likely to be significantly different than the anemometer measurement. When applied to the entire set of scans available, this quality control (QC) method increases the correlation between the two forms of measurements. Finally, the cross-correlation algorithm and QC method are applied to a mesh of locations over pairs of scans. Two examples of two-dimensional and two-component vector flow fields are shown. In one case, the flow field reveals a rotational circulation associated with a vortex and, in the other case, convergence and transport near the leading edge of a density current front.
New Measures of Workforce Skills in the EU
Authors: Kang Lili , O'Mahony Mary , Peng Fei
Published: May 2012

This paper presents new data series designed to yield a more complete picture of the growth in average skill levels embedded in the EU workforce, comparing with competitor countries such as the US and China. Harmonised data from EU surveys are employed to extend coverage in existing databases to more countries, to cover the period of the financial crisis, and to skills acquired through informal workforce training. The results indicate growth in labour quality in the EU15 marginally below the US, convergence of the group of new member states to the EU15 but no sign of convergence of China to more developed regions. There is evidence of a pronounced rise in labour quality in most countries after 2007, consistent with theories of labour hoarding, but with some notable exceptions. Expanding the conventional measures of labour quality to include informal training leads to small but significant increases in the growth of human capital in some EU15 member states.
The Impact of the Financial Crisis on Financial Integration, Growth and Investment
Authors: Inklaar Robert , de Guevara Juan Fernández , Maudos Joaquín
Published: May 2012

Financial crises, and in particular those of the past few years, have severe consequences for the affected economies. In this paper we analyse the impact of financial development and European financial integration on growth and we find no reversal of the growth benefits of financial development and integration in recent years. This highlights the economic cost of regulatory changes that would reverse European financial integration. We also find that, following a financial crisis, investment declines more in countries with a greater degree of uncertainty aversion, which can be informative for evaluating post-crisis economic performance.
Continuous Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition Induces Metabolic Dysfunction in Neonatal Pigs
Authors: Stoll Barbara , Puiman Patrycja Jolanta , Cui Liwei , Chang Xiaoyan , Benight Nancy Marie , Bauchart‐Thevret Caroline , Hartmann Bolette , Holst Jens Juul , Burrin Douglas Guy
Published: May 2012

Background:

We previously showed that parenteral nutrition (PN) compared with formula feeding results in hepatic insulin resistance and steatosis in neonatal pigs. The current aim was to test whether the route of feeding (intravenous [IV] vs enteral) rather than other feeding modalities (diet, pattern) had contributed to the outcome.

Methods:

Neonatal pigs were fed enterally or parenterally for 14 days with 1 of 4 feeding modalities as follows: (1) enteral polymeric formula intermittently (FORM), (2) enteral elemental diet (ED) intermittently (IEN), (3) enteral ED continuously (CEN), and (4) parenteral ED continuously (PN). Subgroups of pigs underwent IV glucose tolerance tests (IVGTT) and hyperinsulinemic‐euglycemic clamps (CLAMP). Following CLAMP, pigs were euthanized and tissues collected for further analysis.

Results:

Insulin secretion during IVGTT was significantly higher and glucose infusion rates during CLAMP were lower in CEN and PN than in FORM and IEN. Endogenous glucose production rate was suppressed to zero in all groups during CLAMP. In the fed state, plasma glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), glucagon‐like peptide (GLP)–1, and GLP‐2 were different between feeding modalities. Insulin receptor phosphorylation in liver and muscle was decreased in IEN, CEN, and PN compared with FORM. Liver weight was highest in PN. Steatosis and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity tended to be highest in PN and CEN. Enterally fed groups had higher plasma GLP‐2 and jejunum weight compared with PN.

Conclusions:

PN and enteral nutrition (EN) when given continuously as an elemental diet reduces insulin sensitivity and the secretion of key gut incretins. The intermittent vs continuous pattern of EN produced the optimal effect on metabolic function.
Efferent Duct Toxicity with Secondary Testicular Changes in Rats Following Administration of a Novel Leukotriene A4 Hydrolase Inhibitor
Authors: La David K. , Creasy Dianne M. , Hess Rex A. , Baxter Elizabeth , Pereira Marcia E. , Johnson Charles A. , Vinken Petra , Snook Sandra S.
Published: May 2012

The efferent ducts represent an important site of toxicity in the male reproductive tract but are not routinely examined in toxicity studies. This article describes a primary efferent duct toxicity that resulted in secondary testicular changes in rats. Male rats were administered LTI-1, a leukotriene A4 hydrolase inhibitor, at doses up to 250 mg/kg/d for 3 month or 150 mg/kg/d for 6 month. At the highest dose levels, testicular changes were predominantly unilateral and characterized by diffuse dilation or atrophy of the seminiferous tubules. These testicular changes correlated with granulomatous inflammation in the corresponding efferent ducts, suggesting that the mechanism for the testicular changes involves obstruction and impaired fluid reabsorption in the efferent ducts. Subsequent buildup in fluid volume and back-pressure upstream of the blockage cause dilation of the seminiferous tubules, which, in its late stages, progress to tubular atrophy. There are important differences in efferent duct anatomy between rats and larger mammals, including humans, such that the latter are less susceptible to testicular injury by this mechanism. Because of the limited relevance of this rat-specific finding to humans, it is important to distinguish testicular changes secondary to efferent duct toxicity from primary drug-induced testicular toxicity.
Renal Histopathology of a Baboon Model with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Rincon-Choles Hernan , Abboud Hanna E. , Lee Shuko , Shade Robert E. , Rice Karen S. , Carey K. Dee , Comuzzie Anthony G. , Barnes Jeffrey L.
Published: May 2012

Naturally occurring type 2 diabetes has been found in a colony of baboons. Ongoing characterization of the baboon colony maintained at the Southwest National Primate Research Center has revealed a significant range of glucose sensitivity with some animals clearly diabetic.   Seven baboons, four with diabetes and three without diabetes, underwent histopathological investigation. Three diabetic animals were diagnosed using fasting blood glucose, hemoglobin A1C, and intravenous glucose tolerance test, and a fourth one was known to have hyperglycemia. One control baboon and three baboons with diabetes had microalbuminuria. On kidney biopsy, diabetic baboons had thickening of the glomerular basement membrane and mesangial matrix expansion compared to controls. Immunohistochemistry showed the diabetic animals had increased mesangial expression of cellular fibronectin ED-A. Two diabetic animals with microalbuminuria had evidence of mesangiolysis with the formation of an early nodule. One diabetic animal had a Kimmestiel–Wilson nodule. We conclude that the baboon represents a useful primate model of diabetes and nephropathy that resembles the nephropathy associated with type 2 diabetes in humans.
Metaphor comprehension in autistic spectrum disorders: Case studies of two high-functioning children
Authors: Melogno Sergio , D’Ardia Caterina , Pinto Maria Antonietta , Levi Gabriel
Published: May 2012

This article presents case studies on metaphor comprehension in two boys with high-functioning autistic spectrum disorder, aged 9;1 (9 years, 1 month) and 8;11. The participants were assessed twice, before and after an intervention program aimed at improving their social skills. The focus of the article is on the specific patterns exhibited by each child in a test of metaphor comprehension that elicits verbal explanation of metaphors, and is targeted at 4–6-year-old typically developing children. The two children had age-appropriate cognitive and verbal abilities, as measured by WISC-III and Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test. At the first assessment, performance on both children was within the average range of typically developing 5-year-old children, but they differed in their patterns of response. At the second time of assessment both the children’s performance had improved, but each in a different manner. The discussion reconsiders the qualitative aspects emerging from the assessments performed at the two time points of the study, raises theoretical issues about metaphor comprehension, and points to possible implications for diagnosis and intervention.
Explaining the Relationship Between Insecure Attachment and Partner Abuse
Authors: Buck Nicole M. L. , Leenaars Ellie P. E. M. , Emmelkamp Paul M. G. , van Marle Hjalmar J. C.
Published: May 2012

Studies have found that male batterers are more often insecurely attached as compared with nonbatterers. However, it is still not clear how insecure attachment is related to domestic violence. Many studies compared batterers and nonbatterers regarding pathological personality characteristics that are related to attachment (e.g., dependency, jealousy) and generally found that batterers report more personality characteristics. However, these studies did not investigate which role these characteristics played in the relationship between insecure attachment and battering. The first aim of this study is to test which personality characteristics are good candidates to explain the relationship between insecure attachment and domestic violence. The second aim is to test whether personality characteristics are predictive of battering over and above attachment. Seventy-two mainly court-mandated family-only males who were in group treatment for battering are allocated to a securely and an insecurely attached group and compared with 62 nonbatterers. Using questionnaires, self-esteem, dependency, general distrust, distrust in partner, jealousy, lack of empathy, separation anxiety, desire for control, and impulsivity were assessed. This was the first study that examined distrust, separation anxiety, and desire for control in relation to battering. The results show that the relationship between insecure attachment and domestic violence can be explained by separation anxiety and partner distrust. Moreover, only partner distrust increased the risk for battering over and above insecure attachment. The findings suggest the presence of two subtypes among batterers based on attachment style, which has similarities to the family-only and dysphoric-borderline subtypes suggested by Holtzworth-Munroe and Stuart. Implications of the present findings for therapy are discussed.
The Clinical Use of Denosumab for the Management of Low Bone Mineral Density in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Harris Kira B. , Nealy Kimberly L. , Jackson Delilah J. , Thornton Phillip L.
Published: May 2012

Osteoporosis is a leading cause of debility and declining quality of life in postmenopausal women worldwide. Treatment of osteoporosis has been ubiquitous throughout the developed world since the mid-1990s, most notably with the introduction of bisphosphonates in 1995. Nonetheless, the incidence of hip fractures increased by 25% between 1990 and 2000, despite advances in osteoporosis therapy. Studies indicate that bone density increases over the first 3 years of bisphosphonate therapy and then plateaus or perhaps even declines, placing these patients at greater risk of fracture. Since hip fractures are associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and increased cost of health care, improvements in treating osteoporosis are critical. Denosumab is a novel monoclonal antibody targeted against the receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) that inhibits osteoclast activity. Initial data suggest that denosumab increases bone mineral density for greater than 3 years. Of greater importance, denosumab has been shown to decrease vertebral fractures by 68%, nonvertebral fractures by 19%, and hip fractures by 42% for at least 36 months. Data also indicate that the safety profile of denosumab is equivalent to other drugs used in osteoporosis management, but potential risks of immunosuppression and cancer have been hypothesized.
A Multilevel Evaluation of a Comprehensive Child Abuse Prevention Program
Authors: Lawson Michael A. , Alameda-Lawson Tania , Byrnes Edward C.
Published: May 2012

Objectives:

The purpose of this study is to examine the extent to which participation in a county-wide prevention program leads to improvements in protective factors associated with child abuse prevention (CAP) and whether improvements in measured protective factors relate to decreased odds of child abuse.

Method:

Using multilevel growth modeling, our analyses focus on an economically poor, culturally diverse sample of 1,184 mothers who maintained their involvement in the program for at least 6 months.

Results:

Our results support a limited association between program participation and improvements in maternal protective factors. Nevertheless, pursuant to the working theory of many CAP programs, improvements in maternal social support and mental health, when evident, were significantly associated with reduced odds of child abuse.

Conclusion:

More robustly specified interventions and supports are needed to enhance outcomes for the majority of families targeted by the program, including those who present the greatest vulnerability for child abuse.
Retrospective Relatedness Reconstruction
Authors: Dionne Shelley D. , Akaishi Jin , Chen Xiujian , Gupta Alka , Sayama Hiroki , Yammarino Francis J. , Serban Andra , Hao Chanyu , Head Hadassah J. , Bush Benjamin James
Published: May 2012

Examination of temporally changing adaptive social networks has been difficult given the need for extensive and usually real-time data collection. Building from interdisciplinary advances, the authors propose a web search engine–based method (called retrospective relatedness reconstruction or 3R) for collecting approximated historical data of temporally changing adaptive social networks. As quantifying relatedness among people in social networks leads to difficulty in assigning proper weights to relationship ties, 3R offers a means for assessing relatedness between people over time. Additionally, 3R can be applied beyond people relatedness to include word associations. To illustrate these two novel contributions, the authors reconstructed the temporal evolution of a social network from 2005 to 2009 of 92 individuals (key leaders) related to the U.S. financial crisis and also examined the temporal evolution of social sentiment (i.e., fear, shame, blame, confidence) related to the same 92 individuals. We found several illustrative cases where temporal changes in centrality and/or sentiment captured actual events related to these individuals during this time period.
How Does Language Matter for Services? Challenges and Propositions for Service Research
Authors: Holmqvist Jonas , Grönroos Christian
Published: May 2012

The service encounter depends on the interaction between consumer and company, with an active role for the consumer as a participant. Building on existing literature, this article argues that language influences how consumers perceive the service encounter in several important ways. In turn, service providers and service researchers must understand the impact of the language used before, during, and after the service encounter. Across these three phases, 11 propositions pertaining to language use help clarify the service encounter, the role of the consumer in services, and how consumers are influenced by language. These propositions also offer ways forward for service research to study the influence of language use on the service encounter. From a managerial perspective, this article highlights language as an increasingly important challenge and suggests ways for companies to meet this challenge.
The Item Veto's Sting
Authors: Brown Adam R.
Published: May 2012

Despite lofty expectations from the item veto's proponents (and fears from its opponents), formal models have suggested that the item veto is unlikely to have much effect beyond what a full veto could render. However, I show that different findings obtain when item vetoes are appreciated more fully as a dimensionality-reducing institution. I begin by developing a package veto model in a generalized multidimensional space. I then show how introducing the item veto changes the outcome by forcing veto bargaining into what is essentially a unidimensional space. As a result, executives with an item veto or other dimensionality-reducing institution (such as a single-subject rule) can be far more powerful in legislative bargaining than executives who lack these tools, other things being equal. I use simulations to demonstrate the model's main implications.
Demographic Similarity/Difference, Intercultural Sensitivity, and Leader–Member Exchange
Authors: Matkin Gina S. , Barbuto John E.
Published: May 2012

This study examined demographic similarity/difference between leaders and followers and level of intercultural sensitivity of leaders as predictors of followers’ ratings of leader–member exchange (LMX) in a U.S. higher education environment. A significant positive relationship was found between leaders’ levels of intercultural sensitivity and followers’ ratings of LMX. Specifically, as leaders’ levels of intercultural sensitivity increased, followers’ rating of LMX also increased. Demographic similarity/difference did not have a predictive relationship with followers’ ratings of LMX.
NF-κB p50 subunit knockout impairs late LTP and alters long term memory in the mouse hippocampus
Authors: Oikawa Kensuke , Odero Gary L , Platt Eric , Neuendorff Melanie , Hatherell Avril , Bernstein Michael J , Albensi Benedict C
Published: May 2012

Background

Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) is a transcription factor typically expressed with two specific subunits (p50, p65). Investigators have reported that NF-κB is activated during the induction of in vitro long term potentiation (LTP), a paradigm of synaptic plasticity and correlate of memory, suggesting that NF-κB may be necessary for some aspects of memory encoding. Furthermore, NF-κB has been implicated as a potential requirement in behavioral tests of memory. Unfortunately, very little work has been done to explore the effects of deleting specific NF-κB subunits on memory. Studies have shown that NF-κB p50 subunit deletion (p50−/−) leads to memory deficits, however some recent studies suggest the contrary where p50−/− mice show enhanced memory in the Morris water maze (MWM). To more critically explore the role of the NF-κB p50 subunit in synaptic plasticity and memory, we assessed long term spatial memory in vivo using the MWM, and synaptic plasticity in vitro utilizing high frequency stimuli capable of eliciting LTP in slices from the hippocampus of NF-κB p50−/− versus their controls (p50+/+).

Results

We found that the lack of the NF-κB p50 subunit led to significant decreases in late LTP and in selective but significant alterations in MWM tests (i.e., some improvements during acquisition, but deficits during retention).

Conclusions

These results support the hypothesis that the NF-κ p50 subunit is required in long term spatial memory in the hippocampus.
Cross-sectional study of availability and pharmaceutical quality of antibiotics requested with or without prescription (Over The Counter) in Surabaya, Indonesia
Authors: Hadi Usman , van den Broek Peterhans , Kolopaking Erni P , Zairina Nun , Gardjito Widjoseno , Gyssens Inge C ,   the Study Group 'Antimicrobial Resistance in Indonesia: Prevalence and Prevention' (AMRIN)
Published: May 2012

Background

Antimicrobial resistance is an increasing problem in developing countries and antibiotic use is widespread. Our previous surveys in Java, Indonesia, revealed that most antibiotic use was probably unnecessary or ineffective. The aim of this study was to explore a potential connection between resistance and substandard antibiotics sold in the area.

Methods

A cross-sectional field study using the simulated client method was conducted in Surabaya. Five first-line antibiotics were requested with or without prescription (OTC). A certified laboratory analysed the drug content using validated methods. Possible determinants of substandard quality were explored.

Results

In total, 104 samples from 75 pharmacies, ten drug stores and 39 roadside stalls (kiosks) were obtained. Pharmacy employees filled all OTC requests. Three quarters of kiosks sold antibiotics. Antibiotics were dispensed as single blister strips or repackaged (16%) without label. Ninety five percent of samples carried the label of 14 Indonesian manufacturers. The pharmaceutical quality did not meet BP standards for 18% of samples. Deviations (less active ingredient) were small. There was no association between low content and type of outlet, sold with or without prescription, registration type, price or packaging. Median retail prices of products carrying the same label varied up to 20 fold.

Conclusions

Antibiotics were available OTC in all visited pharmacies and sold in the streets of an Indonesian city. Most samples contained an active ingredient. We urge to increase enforcement of existing regulations, including legislation that categorizes antibiotics as prescription-only drugs for all types of medicine outlets, to limit further selection of antimicrobial resistance.
Extraperitoneal urine leak after renal transplantation: the role of radionuclide imaging and the value of accompanying SPECT/CT - a case report
Authors: Son Hongju , Heiba Sherif , Kostakoglu Lale , Machac Josef
Published: May 2012

Background

The differentiation of the nature of a fluid collection as a complication of kidney transplantation is important for management and treatment planning. Early and delayed radionuclide renography can play an important role in the evaluation of a urine leak. However, it is sometimes limited in the evaluation of the exact location and extent of a urine leak.

Case Presentation

A 71-year-old male who had sudden anuria, scrotal swelling and elevated creatinine level after cadaveric renal transplantation performed Tc-99 m MAG3 renography to evaluate the renal function, followed by an ultrasound which was unremarkable. An extensive urine leak was evident on the planar images. However, an exact location of the urine leak was unknown. Accompanying SPECT/CT images confirmed a urine leak extending from the lower aspect of the transplant kidney to the floor of the pelvic cavity, presacral region and the scrotum via right inguinal canal as well as to the right abdominal wall.

Conclusions

Renal scintigraphy is very useful to detect a urine leak after renal transplantation. However, planar imaging is sometimes limited in evaluating the anatomical location and extent of a urine leak accurately. In that case accompanying SPECT/CT images are very helpful and valuable to evaluate the anatomical relationships exactly.
Clinical outcomes and immune benefits of anti-epileptic drug therapy in HIV/AIDS
Authors: Lee Kathy , Vivithanaporn Pornpun , Siemieniuk Reed A , Krentz Hartmut B , Maingat Ferdinand , Gill M John , Power Christopher
Published: May 2012

Background

Anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) are frequently prescribed to persons with HIV/AIDS receiving combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) although the extent of AED use and their interactions with cART are uncertain. Herein, AED usage, associated toxicities and immune consequences were investigated.

Methods

HIV replication was analysed in proliferating human T cells during AED exposure. Patients receiving AEDs in a geographically-based HIV care program were assessed using clinical and laboratory variables in addition to assessing AED indication, type, and cumulative exposures.

Results

Valproate suppressed proliferation in vitro of both HIV-infected and uninfected T cells (p < 0.05) but AED exposures did not affect HIV production in vitro. Among 1345 HIV/AIDS persons in active care between 2001 and 2007, 169 individuals were exposed to AEDs for the following indications: peripheral neuropathy/neuropathic pain (60%), seizure/epilepsy (24%), mood disorder (13%) and movement disorder (2%). The most frequently prescribed AEDs were calcium channel blockers (gabapentin/pregabalin), followed by sodium channel blockers (phenytoin, carbamazepine, lamotrigine) and valproate. In a nested cohort of 55 AED-treated patients receiving cART and aviremic, chronic exposure to sodium and calcium channel blocking AEDs was associated with increased CD4+ T cell levels (p < 0.05) with no change in CD8+ T cell levels over 12 months from the beginning of AED therapy.

Conclusions

AEDs were prescribed for multiple indications without major adverse effects in this population but immune status in patients receiving sodium or calcium channel blocking drugs was improved.
Contractile properties and movement behaviour in neonatal rats with axotomy, treated with the NMDA antagonist DAP5
Authors: Petsanis Konstantinos , Chatzisotiriou Athanasios , Kapoukranidou Dorothea , Simeonidou Constantina , Kouvelas Dimitrios , Albani Maria
Published: May 2012

Background

It is well known that axotomy in the neonatal period causes massive loss of motoneurons, which is reflected in the reduction of the number of motor units and the alteration in muscle properties. This type of neuronal death is attributed to the excessive activation of the ionotropic glutamate receptors (glutamate excitotoxicity). In the present study we investigated the effect of the NMDA antagonist DAP5 [D-2-amino-5-phosphonopentanoic acid] in systemic administration, on muscle properties and on behavioural aspects following peripheral nerve injury.

Methods

Wistar rats were subjected to sciatic nerve crush on the second postnatal day. Four experimental groups were included in this study: a) controls (injection of 0.9% NaCl solution) b) crush c) DAP5 treated and d) crush and DAP5 treated. Animals were examined with isometric tension recordings of the fast extensor digitorum longus and the slow soleus muscles, as well as with locomotor tests at four time points, at P14, P21, P28 and adulthood (2 months).

Results

1. Administration of DAP5 alone provoked no apparent adverse effects. 2. In all age groups, animals with crush developed significantly less tension than the controls in both muscles and had a worse performance in locomotor tests (p<0.01). Crush animals injected with DAP5 were definitely improved as their tension recordings and their locomotor behaviour were significantly improved compared to axotomized ones (p<0.01). 3. The time course of soleus contraction was not altered by axotomy and the muscle remained slow-contracting in all developmental stages in all experimental groups. EDL, on the other hand, became slower after the crush (p<0.05). DAP5 administration restored the contraction velocity, even up to the level of control animals 4. Following crush, EDL becomes fatigue resistant after P21 (p<0.01). Soleus, on the other hand, becomes less fatigue resistant. DAP5 restored the profile in both muscles.

Conclusions

Our results confirm that contractile properties and locomotor behaviour of animals are severely affected by axotomy, with a differential impact on fast contracting muscles. Administration of DAP5 reverses these devastating effects, without any observable side-effects. This agent could possibly show a therapeutic potential in other models of excitotoxic injury as well.
Angiotensin II directly regulates intestinal epithelial NHE3 in Caco2BBE cells
Authors: Musch Mark W , Li Yan Chun , Chang Eugene B
Published: May 2012

Background

Angiotensin II (AII) effects on intestinal Na+ transport may be multifactorial. To determine if AII might have a direct effect on intestinal epithelial Na+ transport, we investigated its actions on Na+ transport in human intestinal epithelial Caco2BBE cells.

Results

AII increased apical (brush border) sodium-hydrogen exchanger (NHE)-3, but not NHE2, activity within one hour. Similarly, only apical membrane NHE3 abundance increased at 1–2 hours without any change in total NHE3 protein abundance. From 4–48 hours, AII stimulated progressively larger increases in apical NHE3 activity and surface abundance, which was associated with increases in NHE3 protein expression. At 4–24 hours, NHE3 mRNA increases over baseline expression, suggesting increased gene transcription. This was supported by AII induced increases in rat NHE3 gene promoter-reporter activity. AII induction of NHE3 was blocked by the AII type I receptor antagonist losartan. Acute changes in AII-induced increases in NHE3 exocytosis were blocked by a phospholipase C inhibitor, an arachidonic acid cytochrome P450 epoxygenase inhibitor, as well as phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K) inhibitors and Akt inhibitor, partially blocked by a metalloproteinase inhibitor and an EGF (epidermal growth factor) receptor kinase inhibitor, but not affected by an inhibitor of MEK-1 (MAPKK-1, mitogen activated protein kinase kinase-1).

Conclusion

We conclude that angiotensin II has a direct role in regulating intestinal fluid and electrolyte absorption which may contribute to its overall effects in regulation systemic volume and blood pressure. AII activates several key signaling pathways that induce acute and chronic changes in NHE3 membrane trafficking and gene transcription.