bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of the Macrophage CD163 Phenotype and Cytokine Profiles in a Human Model of Resolving Inflammation
Authors: Evans Betsy J. , Haskard Dorian O. , Sempowksi Gregory , Landis R. Clive
Published: May 2013

Cantharidin skin blisters were examined over two days to model the acute and resolving phases of inflammation in human skin. Four blisters were created by topical administration of cantharidin (0.1% v/v) to the forearm of healthy volunteers, with IRB approval. Duplicate skin blisters were aspirated at 16 and 40 hours to model the proinflammatory and resolving phases, respectively. There was a significant increase in leukocyte infiltrate at 40 h with appearance of a “resolving macrophage” phenotype CD14+CD163+by flow cytometry. Neutrophils acquired apoptotic markers at 40 h and were observed to be phagocytosed by macrophagic “Reiter’s” cells. Multiplex cytokine analysis demonstrated that monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP-1/CCL2), interleukin- (IL-) 6, IL-8/CXCL8, macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP1α/CCL3), MIP-1β/CCL4, tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-)α, and eotaxin (CCL11) were all significantly upregulated at 16 h compared with 40 h. In contrast, immunoregulatory transforming growth factor- (TGF-)β, macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC/CCL22), and interferon-inducible protein (IP-10/CXCL10) were significantly elevated at 40 h. Our results demonstrate that the phases of inflammation and resolution can be discriminated in a two-day model of dermal wound healing. This confirms and extends our understanding of wound repair in humans and provides a powerful research tool for use in clinical settings and to track the molecular benefits of therapeutic intervention.
Preventive and Prophylactic Mechanisms of Action of Pomegranate Bioactive Constituents
Authors: Viladomiu Monica , Hontecillas Raquel , Lu Pinyi , Bassaganya-Riera Josep
Published: May 2013

Pomegranate fruit presents strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiobesity, and antitumoral properties, thus leading to an increased popularity as a functional food and nutraceutical source since ancient times. It can be divided into three parts: seeds, peel, and juice, all of which seem to have medicinal benefits. Several studies investigate its bioactive components as a means to associate them with a specific beneficial effect and develop future products and therapeutic applications. Many beneficial effects are related to the presence of ellagic acid, ellagitannins (including punicalagins), punicic acid and other fatty acids, flavonoids, anthocyanidins, anthocyanins, estrogenic flavonols, and flavones, which seem to be its most therapeutically beneficial components. However, the synergistic action of the pomegranate constituents appears to be superior when compared to individual constituents. Promising results have been obtained for the treatment of certain diseases including obesity, insulin resistance, intestinal inflammation, and cancer. Although moderate consumption of pomegranate does not result in adverse effects, future studies are needed to assess safety and potential interactions with drugs that may alter the bioavailability of bioactive constituents of pomegranate as well as drugs. The aim of this review is to summarize the health effects and mechanisms of action of pomegranate extracts in chronic inflammatory diseases.
Brazilian Green Propolis Compared to Miconazole Gel in the Treatment ofCandida-Associated Denture Stomatitis
Authors: Capistrano Hermínia Marques , de Assis Eliene Magda , Leal Rosana Maria , Alvarez-Leite Maria Eugênia , Brener Sylvie , Bastos Esther Margarida Alves Ferreira
Published: May 2013

Aim. To evaluate the efficacy of Brazilian green propolis in comparison to miconazole gel in the treatment ofCandida-associated denture stomatitis.Methods. Forty-five denture stomatitis patients, with palatal mucosa erythema levels classified according to Newtons’s criteria and with positive culture toCandidaspp., were randomly divided into three treatment groups: 15 received miconazole gel 2%, 15 received propolis gel 2,5%, and 15 received propolis 24% for mouthwash. After four daily use lasting two weeks, they were reexamined for the denture stomatitis degree and for a second culture ofCandida. The Wilcoxon’s test was applied to compare the results of clinical classification of the denture stomatitis and theCandidaspp. colonies numbers, before and after each treatment. The Kruskall-Wallis’s test was used to compare efficacy among the three treatment groups.Results. There were a significant reduction or complete remission of denture stomatitis(P<0.05)and a significant decrease ofCandidacolonies for the three groups(P<0.05).There was no difference in the efficacy among the treatment groups(P>0.05).Conclusion. Brazilian green propolis has a similar effect as miconazole in the treatment ofCandida-associated denture stomatitis being an alternative in the therapeutics of this condition.
Pain and Its Consequences in Quality of Life: A Study with WHOQOL-Bref in Leprosy Patients with Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Reis Felipe J. J. , Gomes Maria Katia , Rodrigues Jéssica , Gosling Artur Padão , Fontana Ana Paula , Cunha Antonio José Ledo A.
Published: May 2013

Chronic neuropathic pain emerges as a challenge in the treatment of leprosy patients after multidrug therapy discharge. The aim of this study was to determine the quality of life and its repercussions in leprosy patients with chronic pain. We studied male and female patients with chronic neuropathic pain in the last year. Neuropathic pain was confirmed usingDouleur Neuropathique en 4(DN4) and its intensity evaluated by visual analogue scale (VAS). A general questionnaire was applied to evaluate quality of life (WHOQOL-bref). Statistical analyses were composed by descriptive and central tendency. Spearman correlation was used to identify the relation between pain intensity, quality of life domains, and facets. Multiple linear regressions were performed to verify the influence of pain intensity on each facet. Neuropathic pain patients scored worst in physical and environment domains. The low facets were related to pain and discomfort, thinking and concentration, sexual activity, and recreation opportunities. Pain intensity has a high negative influence on psychological domain and recreation opportunities. These findings should contribute to the development of rehabilitation programs considering patients needs to improve their quality of life and true social reintegration.
miR-124 Inhibits STAT3 Signaling to Enhance T Cell–Mediated Immune Clearance of Glioma
Authors: Wei Jun , Wang Fei , Kong Ling-Yuan , Xu Shuo , Doucette Tiffany , Ferguson Sherise D. , Yang Yuhui , McEnery Kayla , Jethwa Krishan , Gjyshi Olsi , Qiao Wei , Levine Nicholas B. , Lang Frederick F. , Rao Ganesh , Fuller Gregory N. , Calin George A. , Heimberger Amy B.
Published: May 2013

miRNAs (miR) have been shown to modulate critical gene transcripts involved in tumorigenesis, but their role in tumor-mediated immunosuppression is largely unknown. On the basis of miRNA gene expression in gliomas using tissue microarrays, in situ hybridization, and molecular modeling, miR-124 was identified as a lead candidate for modulating STAT3 signaling, a key pathway mediating immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment. miR-124 is absent in all grades and pathologic types of gliomas. Upon upregulating miR-124 in glioma cancer stem cells (gCSC), the STAT3 pathway was inhibited, and miR-124 reversed gCSC-mediated immunosuppression of T-cell proliferation and induction of forkhead box P3 (Foxp3)+ regulatory T cells (Treg). Treatment of T cells from immunosuppressed glioblastoma patients with miR-124 induced marked effector response including upregulation of interleukin (IL)-2, IFN-γ, and TNF-α. Both systemic administration of miR-124 or adoptive miR-124–transfected T-cell transfers exerted potent anti-glioma therapeutic effects in clonotypic and genetically engineered murine models of glioblastoma and enhanced effector responses in the local tumor microenvironment. These therapeutic effects were ablated in both CD4+- and CD8+-depleted mice and nude mouse systems, indicating that the therapeutic effect of miR-124 depends on the presence of a T-cell–mediated antitumor immune response. Our findings highlight the potential application of miR-124 as a novel immunotherapeutic agent for neoplasms and serve as a model for identifying miRNAs that can be exploited as immunotherapeutics. Cancer Res; 73(13); 3913–26. ©2013 AACR.
Targeting the CD20 and CXCR4 Pathways in Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma with Rituximab and High-Affinity CXCR4 Antagonist BKT140
Authors: Beider Katia , Ribakovsky Elena , Abraham Michal , Wald Hanna , Weiss Lola , Rosenberg Evgenia , Galun Eithan , Avigdor Abraham , Eizenberg Orly , Peled Amnon , Nagler Arnon
Published: May 2013

Purpose: Chemokine axis CXCR4/CXCL12 is critically involved in the survival and trafficking of normal and malignant B lymphocytes. Here, we investigated the effect of high-affinity CXCR4 antagonist BKT140 on lymphoma cell growth and rituximab-induced cytotoxicity in vitro and in vivo.

Experimental Design: In vitro efficacy of BKT140 alone or in combination with rituximab was determined in non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) cell lines and primary samples from bone marrow aspirates of patients with NHL. In vivo efficacy was evaluated in xenograft models of localized and disseminated NHL with bone marrow involvement.

Results: Antagonizing CXCR4 with BKT140 resulted in significant inhibition of CD20+ lymphoma cell growth and in the induction of cell death, respectively. Combination of BKT140 with rituximab significantly enhanced the apoptosis against the lymphoma cells in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, rituximab induced CXCR4 expression in lymphoma cell lines and primary lymphoma cells, suggesting the possible interaction between CD20 and CXCR4 pathways in NHL. Primary bone marrow stromal cells (BMSC) further increased CXCR4 expression and protected NHL cells from rituximab-induced apoptosis, whereas BKT140 abrogated this protective effect. Furthermore, BKT140 showed efficient antilymphoma activity in vivo in the xenograft model of disseminated NHL with bone marrow involvement. BKT140 treatment inhibited the local tumor progression and significantly reduced the number of NHL cells in the bone marrow. Combined treatment of BKT140 with rituximab further decreased the number of viable lymphoma cells in the bone marrow, achieving 93% reduction.

Conclusions: These findings suggest the possible role of CXCR4 in NHL progression and response to rituximab and provide the scientific basis for the development of novel CXCR4-targeted therapies for refractory NHL. Clin Cancer Res; 19(13); 3495–507. ©2013 AACR.
Triptolide Induces the Expression of miR-142-3p: A Negative Regulator of Heat Shock Protein 70 and Pancreatic Cancer Cell Proliferation
Authors: MacKenzie Tiffany N. , Mujumdar Nameeta , Banerjee Sulagna , Sangwan Veena , Sarver Aaron , Vickers Selwyn , Subramanian Subbaya , Saluja Ashok K.
Published: May 2013

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), one of the deadliest malignancies, is resistant to current chemotherapies. We previously showed that triptolide inhibits PDAC cell growth in vitro and blocks metastatic spread in vivo. Triptolide downregulates HSP70, a molecular chaperone upregulated in several tumor types. This study investigates the mechanism by which triptolide inhibits HSP70. Because microRNAs (miRNA) are becoming increasingly recognized as negative regulators of gene expression, we tested whether triptolide regulates HSP70 via miRNAs. Here, we show that triptolide as well as quercetin, but not gemcitabine, upregulated miR-142-3p in PDAC cells (MIA PaCa-2, Capan-1, and S2-013). Ectopic expression of miR-142-3p inhibited cell proliferation, measured by electric cell-substrate impedance sensing, and decreased HSP70 expression, measured by real-time PCR and immunoblotting, compared with controls. We showed that miR-142-3p directly binds to the 3′UTR of HSP70, and that this interaction is important as HSP70 overexpression rescued miR–142-3p-induced cell death. We found that miR–142-3p regulates HSP70 independently of heat shock factor 1. Furthermore, Minnelide, a water-soluble prodrug of triptolide, induced the expression of miR-142-3p in vivo. This is the first description of an miRNA-mediated mechanism of HSP70 regulation in cancer, making miR-142-3p an attractive target for PDAC therapeutic intervention. Mol Cancer Ther; 12(7); 1266–75. ©2013 AACR.
Impact of Tumor Vascularity on Responsiveness to Antiangiogenesis in a Prostate Cancer Stem Cell-Derived Tumor Model
Authors: Zhang Kexiong , Waxman David J.
Published: May 2013

Drugs that target the tumor vasculature and inhibit angiogenesis are widely used for cancer treatment. Individual tumors show large differences in vascularity, but it is uncertain how these differences affect responsiveness to antiangiogenesis. We investigated this question using two closely related prostate cancer models that differ markedly in tumor vascularity: PC3, which has very low vascularity, and the PC3-derived cancer stem-like cell holoclone PC3/2G7, which forms tumors with high microvessel density, high tumor blood flow, and low hypoxia compared with parental PC3 tumors. Three angiogenesis inhibitors (axitinib, sorafenib, and DC101) all induced significantly greater decreases in tumor blood flow and microvessel density in PC3/2G7 tumors compared with PC3 tumors, as well as significantly greater decreases in tumor cell proliferation and cell viability and a greater increase in apoptosis. The increased sensitivity of PC3/2G7 tumors to antiangiogenesis indicates they are less tolerant of low vascularity and suggests they become addicted to their oxygen- and nutrient-rich environment. PC3/2G7 tumors showed strong upregulation of the proangiogenic factors chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) and VEGFA compared with PC3 tumors, which may contribute to their increased vascularity, and they have significantly lower endothelial cell pericyte coverage, which may contribute to their greater sensitivity to antiangiogenesis. Interestingly, high levels of VEGF receptor-2 were expressed on PC3 but not PC3/2G7 tumor cells, which may contribute to the growth static response of PC3 tumors to VEGF-targeted antiangiogenesis. Finally, prolonged antiangiogenic treatment led to resumption of PC3/2G7 tumor growth and neovascularization, indicating these cancer stem-like cell-derived tumors can adapt and escape from antiangiogenesis. Mol Cancer Ther; 12(5); 787–98. ©2013 AACR.
Bowman Birk Inhibitor Concentrate and Oral Leukoplakia: A Randomized Phase IIb Trial
Authors: Armstrong William B. , Taylor Thomas H. , Kennedy Ann R. , Melrose Raymond J. , Messadi Diana V. , Gu Mai , Le Anh D. , Perloff Marjorie , Civantos Francisco , Goodwin William Jarrard , Wirth Lori J. , Kerr Alexander Ross , Meyskens Frank L.
Published: May 2013

Oral premalignancy serves as an ideal model for study of chemopreventive agents. Although 13-cis-retinoic acid showed reversal of oral premalignancy, toxicity, and reversal of clinical response after cessation of therapy obviated its widespread use. A search for nontoxic agents with cancer preventive activity led us to evaluate Bowman Birk Inhibitor (BBI) formulated as BBI Concentrate (BBIC). We previously reported encouraging results in a phase IIa trial of BBIC in patients with oral leukoplakia with measurable clinical responses and favorable biomarker changes. On the basis of these results, we undertook a randomized, placebo controlled phase IIb trial with patients receiving BBIC or placebo for 6 months, with assessment of clinical response and change in lesion area as primary end point and an intent-to-treat analysis. One hundred and thirty two subjects were randomized; and 89 subjects completed six months on study drug or placebo. Both placebo and BBIC showed a statistically significant decrease in mean lesion area of 17.1% and 20.6%, respectively, and partial or greater clinical responses of 30% and 28% respectively. No significant difference between placebo and study drug arms was observed. Histologic review, review of photographs of lesions, and comparison of serum neu protein and oral mucosal cell protease activity also did not show significant differences between study arms. Probable reasons for these negative results were considered, are discussed, and include a placebo with non-BBIC clinical activity and reduced pharmacokinetic availability of the second batch of BBIC. This experience should be a strong cautionary note to those considering “Green” chemoprevention. Cancer Prev Res; 6(5); 410–8. ©2013 AACR.
Not Significant But Important
Authors: Mulshine James L. , Ondrey Frank G.
Published: May 2013

Armstrong and colleagues report the result of a large Phase IIb randomized trial evaluating the effectiveness of a preparation of the Bowman Birk Inhibitor compared with an oral placebo in reversing the extent of oral leukoplakia as measured visually by pathology or a battery of intermediate end points. In this editorial, we review the report of this negative clinical trials result to highlight the clinical trial process used in evaluating this previously promising chemoprevention agent. Publishing this report is important to address concerns with publication bias. The challenges in running a chemoprevention trial are reviewed with suggestions to enhance progress going forward. Conceptually, developing drugs to intercept the early stages of carcinogenesis is very attractive, but progress in this area has been slow. Two opportunities to overcome this reality are discussed. These measures include the broader use of neoadjuvant, window-of-opportunity trials with new candidate chemoprevention agents to get more textured information about the mechanistic impact of the drug exposure in previously untreated early tumor tissue. In addition, we discuss the use of new intermediate end point markers such as with optical imaging tools to obtain a more objective and quantitative assessment of drug response. Cancer Prev Res; 6(5); 371–4. ©2013 AACR.
Elevated plasma factor VIII enhances venous thrombus formation in rabbits: Contribution of factor XI, von Willebrand factor and tissue factor
Authors: Sugita Chihiro , Yamashita Atsushi , Matsuura Yunosuke , Iwakiri Takashi , Okuyama Nozomi , Matsuda Shuntaro , Matsumoto Tomoko , Inoue Osamu , Harada Aya , Kitazawa Takehisa , Hattori Kunihiro , Shima Midori , Asada Yujiro
Published: May 2013

Elevated plasma levels of factor VIII (FVIII) are associated with increased risk of deep venous thrombosis. The aim of this study is to elucidate how elevated FVIII levels affect venous thrombus formation and propagation in vivo. We examined rabbit plasma FVIII activity, plasma thrombin generation, whole blood coagulation, platelet aggregation and venous wall thrombogenicity before and one hour after an intravenous infusion of recombinant human FVIII (rFVIII). Venous thrombus induced by the endothelial denudation of rabbit jugular veins was histologically assessed. Thrombus propagation was evaluated as indocyanine green fluorescence intensity. Argatroban, a thrombin inhibitor, and neutralised antibodies for tissue factor (TF), factor XI (FXI), and von Willebrand factor (VWF) were infused before or after thrombus induction to investigate their effects on venous thrombus formation or propagation. Recombinant FVIII (100 IU/kg) increased rabbit plasma FVIII activity two-fold and significantly enhanced whole blood coagulation and total plasma thrombin generation, but did not affect initial thrombin generation time, platelet aggregation and venous wall thrombogenicity. The rFVIII infusion also increased the size of venous thrombus 1 hour after thrombus induction. Argatroban and the antibodies for TF, FXI or VWF inhibited such enhanced thrombus formation and all except TF suppressed thrombus propagation. In conclusion, elevated plasma FVIII levels enhance venous thrombus formation and propagation. Excess thrombin generation by FXI and VWF-mediated FVIII recruitment appear to contribute to the growth of FVIII-driven venous thrombus.
Thin-Capped Atheromata With Reduced Collagen Content in Pigs Develop in Coronary Arterial Regions Exposed to Persistently Low Endothelial Shear Stress
Authors: Koskinas Konstantinos C. , Sukhova Galina K. , Baker Aaron B. , Papafaklis Michail I. , Chatzizisis Yiannis S. , Coskun Ahmet U. , Quillard Thibaut , Jonas Michael , Maynard Charles , Antoniadis Antonios P. , Shi Guo-Ping , Libby Peter , Edelman Elazer R. , Feldman Charles L. , Stone Peter H.
Published: May 2013

Objective—

The mechanisms promoting the focal formation of rupture-prone coronary plaques in vivo remain incompletely understood. This study tested the hypothesis that coronary regions exposed to low endothelial shear stress (ESS) favor subsequent development of collagen-poor, thin-capped plaques.

Approach and Results—

Coronary angiography and 3-vessel intravascular ultrasound were serially performed at 5 consecutive time points in vivo in 5 diabetic, hypercholesterolemic pigs. ESS was calculated along the course of each artery with computational fluid dynamics at all 5 time points. At follow-up, 184 arterial segments with previously identified in vivo ESS underwent histopathologic analysis. Compared with other plaque types, eccentric thin-capped atheromata developed more in segments that experienced lower ESS during their evolution. Compared with lesions with higher preceding ESS, segments persistently exposed to low ESS (<1.2 Pa) exhibited reduced intimal smooth muscle cell content; marked intimal smooth muscle cell phenotypic modulation; attenuated procollagen-I gene expression; increased gene and protein expression of the interstitial collagenases matrix-metalloproteinase-1, -8, -13, and -14; increased collagenolytic activity; reduced collagen content; and marked thinning of the fibrous cap.

Conclusions—

Eccentric thin-capped atheromata, lesions particularly prone to rupture, form more frequently in coronary regions exposed to low ESS throughout their evolution. By promoting an imbalance of attenuated synthesis and augmented collagen breakdown, low ESS favors the focal evolution of early lesions toward plaques with reduced collagen content and thin fibrous caps—2 critical determinants of coronary plaque vulnerability.
Rating Method for Dilated Virchow–Robin Spaces on Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Adams Hieab H.H. , Cavalieri Margherita , Verhaaren Benjamin F.J. , Bos Daniel , van der Lugt Aad , Enzinger Christian , Vernooij Meike W. , Schmidt Reinhold , Ikram M. Arfan
Published: May 2013

Background and Purpose—

Dilated Virchow–Robin spaces are an emerging neuroimaging biomarker, but their assessment on MRI needs standardization.

Methods—

We developed a rating method for dilated Virchow–Robin spaces in 4 brain regions (centrum semiovale, basal ganglia, hippocampus, and mesencephalon) and tested its reliability in a total of 125 MRI scans from 2 population-based studies. Six investigators with varying levels of experience performed the ratings. Intraclass correlation coefficients were calculated to determine intra- and interrater reliability.

Results—

Intrarater reliability was excellent for all 4 regions (intraclass correlation coefficient, >0.8). Interrater reliability was excellent for the centrum semiovale and hippocampus (intraclass correlation coefficient, >0.8) and good for the basal ganglia and mesencephalon (intraclass correlation coefficient, 0.6–0.8). This did not differ between the cohorts or experience levels.

Conclusions—

We describe a reliable rating method that can facilitate pathogenic and prognostic research on dilated Virchow–Robin spaces using MRI.
Synthesis of Resonance by Nonlinear Distortion Methods
Authors: Lazzarini Victor , Timoney Joseph
Published: May 2013

This article explores techniques for synthesizing resonant sounds using the principle of nonlinear distortion. These methods can be grouped under the heading of “subtractive synthesis without filters,” the case for which has been made in the literature. Starting with a simple resonator model, this article looks at how the source-modifier arrangement can be reconstructed as a heterodyne structure made of a sinusoidal carrier and a complex modulator. From this, we examine how the modulator signal can be created with nonlinear distortion methods, looking at the classic case of phase-aligned formant synthesis and then our own modified frequency-modulation technique. The article concludes with some application examples of this sound-synthesis principle.
The new synonymy of Horikawaea with Cryptogonium and a proposal of Pseudocryptogonium, gen. nov. (Musci, Pterobryaceae)
Authors: AKIYAMA HIROYUKI , TAN BENITO C.
Published: May 2013

Male organs and mature sporophytes of a calciphilous moss previously known as Horikawaea dubia are newly reported and described in detail based on a single specimen collected in Guangxi Province, southern China. Sporophytic features, such as the immersed and cylindrical capsule on a very short seta (ca. 1.2 mm long) and reduced peristome with 16 smooth and almost linear exostome teeth, as well as the gametophytic resemblance to Cryptogonium phyllogonioides in having complanate foliation, highly differentiated alar region of the stem and branch leaves, and more or less cucullate leaf apices, suggest a new synonymy of Horikawaea in Cryptogonium. Two new combinations, namely, C. dubia (Tixier) H.Akiyama & B.C.Tan comb. nov. and C. nitida (Nog.) H.Akiyama & B.C.Tan comb. nov. are made. Additionally, Pseudocryptogonium H.Akiyama & B.C.Tan gen. nov. is proposed to accommodate Horikawaea tjibodensis (syn. H. redfearnii).
Warm Winter Storms in Central Chile
Authors: Garreaud R.
Published: May 2013

Central Chile is a densely populated region along the west coast of subtropical South America (30°–36°S), limited to the east by the Andes. Precipitation is concentrated in austral winter, mostly associated with the passage of cold fronts. The freezing level over central Chile is typically between 1500 and 2500 m when precipitation is present. In about a third of the cases, however, precipitation occurs accompanied by warm temperatures and freezing levels above 3000 m, leading to a sizeable increment in the pluvial area of Andean basins and setting the stage for hydrometeorological hazards. Here, warm winter storms in central Chile are studied, including a statistical description of their occurrence and an estimate of their hydrological impacts. Remote-sensed data and high-resolution reanalysis are used to explore the synoptic-scale environment of a typical case, generalized later by a compositing analysis. The structure of warm storms is also contrasted with that of the more recurrent cold cases. Precipitation during warm events occurs in the warm sector of a slow-moving cold front because of the intense moisture flux against the mountains in connection with a land-falling atmospheric river. This is in turn driven by a strong zonal jet aloft and reduced mechanical blocking upstream of the Andes. On a broader scale, a key element is the presence of a slowly moving anticyclone over the south Pacific, fostering advection of cold air into midlatitudes. The intense and persistent zonal jet stretches a moist-air corridor from the central Pacific to the west coast of South America.
Principals’ Approaches to Cultivating Teacher Effectiveness
Authors: Donaldson Morgaen L.
Published: May 2013

Purpose: How principals hire, assign, evaluate, and provide growth opportunities to teachers likely have major ramifications for teacher effectiveness and student learning. This article reports on the barriers principals encountered when carrying out these functions and variations in the degree to which they identified obstacles and problem-solved to surmount them. Research Methods: I conducted semistructured interviews with 30 principals in charter or conventional schools in two adjacent northeastern states. State A has been at the national forefront of efforts to raise teacher effectiveness. State B is a particularly strong union setting. Charter school principals constituted 23.3% of the sample; 53% of principals worked in urban schools. After coding interview transcripts, I used thematic summaries, categorical matrices, and analytical memos to identify themes across participant experiences. Findings: Principals encountered barriers to cultivating teacher effectiveness that were economic, contractual, cultural, and interpersonal. Principals with more professional development regarding how to improve teachers’ instruction and principals of schools that were elementary, smaller, and in State A reported fewer barriers and more opportunities to developing human capital. Implications: Implications for policymakers include creating incentives to draw teachers to urban and rural schools and curtailing teacher assignments that prioritize seniority. Implications for practitioners include efforts to shift the culture of schools to support principals in providing accurate and frank feedback on instruction. Further research should examine whether the patterns identified here hold for a larger, random sample of principals including those in large, urban districts and right-to-work states.
Charting the Roots of Anti-Chinese Populism in Africa: A Comparison of Zambia and Ghana
Authors: Hess Steve , Aidoo Richard
Published: May 2013

In this article the authors conduct focused case studies on Zambia and Ghana to investigate the increasingly diverse popular reactions to Chinese engagement throughout the region of sub-Saharan Africa. In this effort they challenge the existing binary exploitation/opportunity paradigm through which growing Chinese engagement in sub-Saharan Africa is often analyzed. Instead, they propose an alternative framework, which centers less on the positive or nefarious nature of Chinese involvement and more on the institutional structures of African regimes. As opposed to closed autocracies and consolidated multiparty democracies, fluid transitional states create opportunities for the appearance of anti-Chinese populist movements akin to Michael Sata and the Patriotic Front in Zambia.
Modeling and simulation of train movements under scheduling and control for a fixed-block railway network using cellular automata
Authors: Zhou Yonghua , Mi Chao
Published: May 2013

The dynamics of train movements is not only determined by the control strength of the train, but also by the interdependence between trains and the scheduling command that specifies the allowable movement distance and speed. This paper attempts to propose a generalized simulation model of train movements using cellular automata so that the scheduling commands are incorporated into the model. Based on the concept of instantaneous movement authority, the proposed model generally decomposes the entire trip into a series of movements on each block section with speed limits at the start and endpoints of, as well as within, the section. It realizes the dynamic speed updates analogous to the feedback adjustments of realistic train movements, and describes both the dynamics of the train itself and the interactions between trains with adjustable parameters. The control strategies are reflected in the configurations of the acceleration and the deceleration. The autonomous, restrictive and synergistic aspects of train movements are completely represented. The model and the simulation algorithm are applied to simulate the train movements with and without the scheduling commands. The observed phenomena can be replicated, and the rationality of simulation results has been analyzed about the speed updates and the performances under the typical scheduling strategies. The proposed simulation model can facilitate the establishment of measures to maximize the transport efficiency of the railway network.
Young Adolescents’ Gender-, Ethnicity-, and Popularity-Based Social Schemas of Aggressive Behavior
Authors: Clemans Katherine H. , Graber Julia A.
Published: May 2013

Social schemas can influence the perception and recollection of others’ behavior and may create biases in the reporting of social events. This study investigated young adolescents’ ( N = 317) gender-, ethnicity-, and popularity-based social schemas of overtly and relationally aggressive behavior. Results indicated that participants associated overt aggression with being male and African American and relational aggression with being female. In addition, participants associated all types of aggression with high perceived popularity. The strength of endorsement of several subscales differed significantly as a function of raters’ gender and ethnicity. Findings highlight the importance of understanding how aggression-related social schemas may influence adolescents’ reporting of peer behaviors.
Statistical Matching of Administrative and Survey Data
Authors: Rasner Anika , Frick Joachim R. , Grabka Markus M.
Published: May 2013

Using population representative survey data from the German Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP) and administrative pension records from the Statutory Pension Insurance, the authors compare four statistical matching techniques to complement survey information on net worth with social security wealth (SSW) information from the administrative records. The unique properties of the linked data allow for a straight control of the quality of matches under each technique. Based on various evaluation criteria, Mahalanobis distance matching performs best. Exploiting the advantages of the newly assembled data, the authors include SSW in a wealth inequality analysis. Despite its quantitative relevance, SSW is thus far omitted from such analyses because adequate micro data are lacking. The inclusion of SSW doubles the level of net worth and decreases inequality by almost 25 percent. Moreover, the results reveal striking differences along occupational lines.
Success Patterns of Exploratory and Exploitative Innovation
Authors: Mueller Verena , Rosenbusch Nina , Bausch Andreas
Published: May 2013

Research has frequently argued that firms need to pursue exploratory and exploitative innovation strategies to be viable in an environment of technological change and intensified competition. However, it remains unclear whether exploratory and exploitative innovations are equally successful in different institutional environments. This meta-analysis synthesizes previous empirical findings to reveal under which institutional conditions firms benefit most from exploratory or exploitative innovation. We distinguish between institutional conditions that affect the success derived from exploratory and exploitative innovations through (a) the availability of resources and (b) attitudes toward innovation and the willingness of stakeholders to allocate resources to both innovation types. Our results show that national culture has a strong impact on the success of exploratory innovations, whereas only uncertainty avoidance influences the benefits derived from exploitative innovations. Socioeconomic conditions are equally important for the success of both innovation types. Our findings are of high practical relevance as due to increasing globalization more and more firms operate internationally and managers have choices regarding the location of their exploratory and exploitative innovation activities.
Vietnam – A New Economic Dragon in Southeast Asia?
Authors: Welle-Strand Anne , Vlaicu Monica , Tjeldvoll Arild
Published: May 2013

This study investigates and identifies some of the primary determinants of Vietnam’s growth during the Doi Moi era and provides an assessment of their relevance and application to contemporary challenges. The Socialist Republic of Vietnam has an impressive record of economic growth and poverty reduction over the past two decades. Capitalizing on the advantages of its cultural and economic features, the strategy of incremental Doi Moi reforms has demonstrated the strength and commitment of Vietnam’s political leadership. The country has achieved middle-income economy status in 2009 and is aiming to become an industrialized nation by 2020. However, on the background of mounting domestic challenges and less favorable international economic conditions, the achievement of this ambitious goal seems uncertain. Growing economic affluence may have hampered some of the positive features, which had previously been instrumental in catalyzing growth and development, and the current reform processes appear to be stalling.
Exploring the Perceptions of Success in an Exercise Referral Scheme
Authors: Mills Hayley , Crone Diane , James David V. B. , Johnston Lynne H.
Published: May 2013

Background:

Exercise referral schemes feature as one of the prevalent primary care physical activity interventions in the United Kingdom, without extensive understanding of how those involved in providing and participating view success. The present research explores and reveals the constituents of “success,” through comparison, contradiction, and integration of qualitative and quantitative research findings.

Method:

A population-based cohort design formed the basis for a mixed method approach to the research. The quantitative component used a three-stage binary logistic regression to identify patient sociodemographic characteristics and referral reasons associated with three outcomes ( n = 1,315). The qualitative component ( n = 28) comprised four focus groups with patients ( n = 17), individual interviews with exercise providers ( n = 4), and referring health professionals ( n = 7). The research components were compared at discussion stage to offer insights into the concept of “success.”

Results:

The integrated findings highlighted the multidimensional nature of the concept of success, containing a wide range of concepts such as empowerment, inclusion, and confidence. The traditional notions of success such as, attendance, weight loss, and blood pressure reduction featured amid a more holistic view which incorporated psychological and social aspects as both influences and outcomes.

Conclusion:

These findings can enable future development of more representative evaluations of the benefits of exercise referral. This mixed methods research approach can facilitate the development of sophisticated, tailored, evidence-based interventions in the future.
Dowsing from the Late Middle Ages to the Twentieth Century: The Practices, Uses and Interpretations of an Element of European Magic
Authors: Dillinger Johannes
Published: May 2013

Dowsing was an element of European folk magic. With the help of simple wooden rods persons with special magical abilities were supposed to be able to find hidden objects, from buried treasures to subterranean springs. The rise of dowsing can be traced to its use in the emerging mining centres of Central Europe around 1500. However, dowsers soon claimed nearly universal magical knowledge. Even though dowsing encountered strong scepticism, a number of early modern scholars and scientists tried to explain the alleged efficacy of the rod in a number of different ways, ranging from demonological arguments to the atom theory, and the idea of an all-encompassing world spirit. From the eighteenth century onwards, scientific mining techniques marginalized dowsing. However, the practice lingers on to the present day, mostly in the forms of water-witching and pseudo-medicinal diagnostics. The key to the continued popularity of dowsing is its cheapness and its simplicity. Insofar as it promises quick success without formal education, it is the very opposite of science. Dowsing is an example of the successful adaptation of magic with medieval roots to the esotericism that flourishes on the margins of Europe’s supposedly rational worldview.
Assisted desistance and experiences of probation supervision
Authors: King Sam
Published: May 2013

The impact of probation interventions upon processes of desistance has become an area of increased interest in recent years. Much of this research has been focused upon the longer term processes of secondary desistance, often to the relative neglect of processes associated with primary desistance. Some authors have recently begun to examine in closer detail the nature of initial transitions towards desistance, and this article aims to contribute to this area of research by examining the impact of probation interventions on these early transitions. The findings show that experiences of probation can have a positive impact upon these desistance transitions yet, in keeping with much recent research, probation offers little support for the socio-structural aspects of desistance. The article concludes that these structural factors are likely to be dealt with by external agencies, but that even these may not provide the necessary support to facilitate longer term processes of desistance.
Enhanced plasticity in spoken language acquisition for child learners: Evidence from phonetic training studies in child and adult learners of English
Authors: Giannakopoulou Anastasia , Uther Maria , Ylinen Sari
Published: May 2013

Speech sounds that contain multiple phonetic cues are often difficult for foreign-language learners, especially if certain cues are weighted differently in the foreign and native languages. Greek adult and child speakers of English were studied to determine the effect of native language on second-language (L2) cue weighting and, in particular, to explore whether perceptual training could help to improve accuracy in phoneme identification and discrimination. Two forms of stimuli were used: natural (unedited) stimuli and ‘modified’ vowel duration stimuli which were edited to ensure that duration could not be used as a cue in the tasks. Results show the Greek speakers performed poorly when they were unable to use the duration cue as compared with the native English speakers. After high-variability training, performance was improved for both Greek adult (20 –30 years) and child (7 –8 years) groups. However, the degree of improvement was most pronounced for children. This suggests enhanced plasticity for spoken language in this developmental stage. These data have impact on informing the strategies used for teaching spoken language in English as additional language (EAL) populations in different age groups.
The Role Played by the Family in Shaping Early and Middle Adolescent Civic Responsibility
Authors: Lenzi Michela , Vieno Alessio , Santinello Massimo , Nation Maury , Voight Adam
Published: May 2013

Adopting a multi-informant methodology, the current study examines the relative influence of multiple parental characteristics (civic responsibility, encouragement of civic action, parent-youth closeness) on adolescents’ civic responsibility (local and global). The participants were 384 early and middle adolescents (47.9% male), randomly selected from an Italian city (mean age = 13.6; SD = 1.63), and one parent for each adolescent. The results show a positive association between the parents’ local civic responsibility and the adolescents’ responsibility toward the local community, and between the parents’ global civic responsibility and the adolescents’ responsibility toward societal issues. Moreover, parental encouragement of civic action and parent-youth closeness were positively associated with the adolescents’ civic responsibility. Finally, an interaction between the parents’ local civic responsibility and parent-child closeness was found in which parents’ civic responsibility had stronger influence on youth civic responsibility when the parent-child relationship was characterized by medium or high levels of closeness.
Hospital Variation in Patient-Reported Outcomes at the Level of EQ-5D Dimensions
Authors: Gutacker Nils , Bojke Chris , Daidone Silvio , Devlin Nancy , Street Andrew
Published: May 2013

Background. The English Department of Health has introduced routine collection of patient-reported outcome data for selected surgical procedures to facilitate patient choice and increase hospital accountability. However, using aggregate health outcome scores, such as EQ-5D utilities, for performance assessment purposes causes information loss and raises statistical and normative concerns. Objectives. For hip replacement surgery, we explore a) the change in patient-reported outcomes between baseline and follow-up on 5 health dimensions (EQ-5D), b) the extent to which treatment impact varies across hospitals, and c) the extent to which hospital performance on EQ-5D dimensions is correlated with performance on the EQ-5D utility index. Methods. We combine information on pre- and postoperative EQ-5D outcomes with routine inpatient data for the financial year 2009–2010. The sample consists of 21,000 patients in 153 hospitals. We employ hierarchical ordered probit risk-adjustment models that recognize the multilevel nature of the data and the response distributions. The treatment impact is modeled as a random coefficient that varies at the hospital level. We obtain hospital-specific empirical Bayes (EB) estimates of this coefficient. We estimate separate models for each EQ-5D dimension and the EQ-5D utility index and analyze correlations of EB estimates across these. Results. Hospital treatment is associated with improvements in all EQ-5D dimensions. Variability in treatment impact is most pronounced on the mobility and usual activities dimensions. Conversely, only pain/discomfort and anxiety/depression correlate well with performance measures based on utilities. This leads to different assessments of hospital performance across metrics. Conclusions. Our results indicate which hospitals are better than others in improving health across particular EQ-5D dimensions. We demonstrate the importance of evaluating dimensions of the EQ-5D separately for the purposes of hospital performance assessment.
Value of D-dimer and protein S for diagnosis of portal vein thrombosis in patients with liver cirrhosis
Authors: Zhang Dong-Lei , Hao Jian-Yu , Yang Ning
Published: May 2013

Objective

To investigate the value of D-dimer and protein S plasma concentrations for diagnosis of portal vein thrombosis (PVT) in patients with liver cirrhosis.

Methods

D-dimer and protein S were quantified, PVT was diagnosed by dynamic enhanced computed tomography and liver function was classified using the Child–Pugh system. Receiver operating curve analysis was performed.

Results

D-dimer increased, and protein S decreased, with decreasing liver function in the total study population ( n = 188). D-dimer concentrations were significantly higher and protein S concentrations were significantly lower in patients with ( n = 51) than those without PVT ( n = 137). D-dimer had high specificity and negative predictive value (NPV) in Child–Pugh class A or B patients (cut-off values>0.56 mg/l and >1.18 mg/l, respectively). In class C patients>0.77 mg/l D-dimer had high sensitivity and NPV. Protein S had high sensitivity but low specificity in class A or B patients (cut-off values < 17.4 mg/l and <19.2 mg/l, respectively).

Conclusion

Plasma D-dimer and protein S are potential biomarkers for PVT diagnosis in patients with cirrhosis. PVT can be excluded when D-dimer is low and protein S is elevated.
Undoing War: War Ontologies and the Materiality of Drone Warfare
Authors: Holmqvist Caroline
Published: May 2013

The turn to military robotics is a striking feature of contemporary Western warfare. How then to make sense of the increasing reliance on unmanned weapons systems, in particular, the use of combat-enabled Unmanned Aerial Vehicles/drones? Questioning the intuitive and oft-repeated claim that robotics ‘take the human experience out of war’ (reducing it to a video game), I argue that in order to make sense of current developments, we need precisely to reconsider our understanding of the human, her role in, and experience of, war. In this, we are aided by a critical materialist inquiry that investigates the human–material assemblage as a complex whole, taking both fleshy and steely bodies into account. Drawing on the philosophies of Maurice Merleau-Ponty and Judith Butler, I show that only by considering what being human means – in ontological terms – and by asking how human experience is altered through new technologies will we be able to think politically and ethically about contemporary war.