bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differences in social support of caregivers living with partners suffering from COPD or dementia
Authors: Nordtug Bente , Krokstad Steinar , Sletvold Olav , Holen Are
Published: November 2011

nordtug b., krokstad s., sletvold o. & holen a. (2013) Differences in social support of caregivers living with partners suffering from COPD or dementia. International Journal of Older People Nursing 8, 93–103  doi: 10.1111/j.1748‐3743.2011.00302.x

Background.  Future patients with chronic diseases will probably remain longer in their homes. To enable family caregivers to meet these challenges, public services and informal support are essential.

Objectives.  This study compared social support between home‐dwelling caregivers of partners with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or dementia.

Methods.  A cross‐sectional study of 206 caregivers. Professional aid was quantified by the services utilised. Informal support from family and friends was rated by the number of helping persons and the degree of social withdrawal. The Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey Form captured perceived social support.

Results.  For both diseases, increased severity correlated with more utilisation of professional aid. The chronic obstructive pulmonary disease group perceived more social support, reported less social withdrawal and higher numbers of helping persons. Ill partners’ aggressive behaviour reduced perceived support. The use of professional aid was negatively associated with the ill partner’s level of self‐care, and positively correlated with social withdrawal. Professional aid was more utilised by the dementia group and by men.

Conclusions.  Differences in caregivers’ needs for social support were related to their partner’s disease.

Implications for practice.  Counteracting social withdrawal, considering type of illness and gender differences may increase the quality of informal care.
A combined project of prawns and poultry: a dynamical system
Authors: Sana Shib Sankar , Chaudhuri Kripasindhu
Published: November 2011

This review examines a joint project involving prawns and broilers. The growth rates of both species vary with available nutrients. The nutrients for both species are functions of the biomasses of the two species. The harvesting rates of prawns and broilers depend non‐linearly on effort functions. The existence of steady states and their stability (local and global) are investigated analytically. The joint profit of the project is maximized using Pontryagin’s maximum principle. The model is also illustrated using suitable numerical examples and demonstrated graphically.
Computational study of electron-irradiation effects in carbon nanomaterials on substrates
Authors: Chihara Yoshinori , Yasuda Masaaki , Wakuda Shinya , Kawata Hiroaki , Hirai Yoshihiko
Published: November 2011

Molecular dynamics simulation is performed to study electron-irradiation effects in carbon nanomaterials on substrates. The interaction between an incident electron and a carbon atom in target nanomaterials is introduced by the Monte Carlo method. Collisions of the backscattered electrons from the substrate are also introduced. The distributions of energy and the exit angle of backscattered electrons are calculated using Monte Carlo simulation of electron scattering in the substrate. Structural changes become more remarkable when the carbon nanomaterials are on the substrates. The threshold energy and the characteristics of structural changes by backscattered electrons are also discussed.
Impact of precursor chemistry on atomic layer deposition of lutetium aluminates
Authors: Nyns Laura , Shi Xiaoping , Tielens Hilde , Van Elshocht Sven , Date Lucien , Schreutelkamp Robert
Published: November 2011

Rare earth-based oxides are of interest for their potential application in future logic high-performance technologies where Germanium is the channel material. In addition, their aluminates are considered as promising high-k dielectrics for nonvolatile memory technologies. However, it has been found that the dielectric quality of these materials is highly dependent on the method of preparation. The authors have therefore examined the atomic layer deposition (ALD) of LuxAl2−xO3 layers by means of Tris(isopropyl cyclopentadienyl) Lutetium (Lu(iPrCp)3), Tris(diethyl-amido)aluminum and H2O or O3 in a nanolaminate approach. This manuscript covers the impact of the oxidizer on both the ALD process characteristics and LuxAl2−xO3 layer properties. Because of the hygroscopic nature of rare earth oxides, the O3-based ALD of LuxAl2−xO3 is well controlled compared to the H2O-based process. On the other hand, LuxAl2−xO3 dielectrics grown with H2O as the oxidizer show better electrical properties in terms of Equivalent Oxide Thickness (EOT) and leakage current density because of lower C impurities, especially in case of Lu-rich compositions.
Molecular layer deposition of polyethylene terephthalate thin films
Authors: Ivanova Tatyana V. , Maydannik Philipp S. , Cameron David C.
Published: November 2011

Thin films of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) have been grown using sequential surface chemical reactions on silicon substrates. The surface has been sequentially exposed to terephthaloyl chloride (TC) and ethylene glycol (EG) in an ASM F-120 atomic layer deposition reactor. Precursor pulses were alternated with 30 s of N2 purge. The process has been studied as a function of temperature, precursor pulsing time, and number of cycles. The films were deposited in the temperature range 145–175 °C and the precursors were held at 130 °C (TC) and 70 °C (EG). Before deposition the silicon surface was functionalized using 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane to ensure nucleation of the film. The film growth exhibits self-limiting behavior and linear growth rate dependence that confirms its molecular layer deposition nature. The deposited films have been identified as PET by means of attenuated total reflectance FTIR which reveals the presence of characteristic carbonyl and aromatic groups. Film thickness was measured by spectroscopic ellipsometry. The maximum deposition rate of 3.3Å/cycle was obtained. Surface morphology was investigated using AFM showing average roughness (Ra) of 3.5 nm.
Experimental verification of subwavelength acoustic focusing using a near-field array of closely spaced elements
Authors: Abasi Reza , Markley Loïc , Eleftheriades George V.
Published: November 2011

A linear array of closely spaced sound transducers is presented that can produce a subwavelength-focused intensity profile at a distance of a quarter wavelength. This work is related to research on super-resolution using metamaterials in both the acoustic and optical domains. It is designed using the principle of shifted beams, a near-field antenna array theory developed for the subwavelength focusing of electromagnetic waves. Once the spatial sound pattern is characterized for each source, the optimal weights for a minimum beam width can be calculated. An experiment operating at 4 kHz was able to successfully construct a super-focused beam.
Barcoding Hedgehog for Intracellular Transport
Authors: Kornberg Thomas B.
Published: November 2011

Cholesterol modification may alter the intracellular localization of Hedgehog, thereby influencing where Hedgehog is released.
Focus Issue: Fine-Tuning Hedgehog Signaling in Development and Disease
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: November 2011

The Hedgehog signaling cascade is regulated by a complex and diverse set of mechanisms.
New Nrps Nexus
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: November 2011

Neuropilins promote Hedgehog signaling by acting downstream of Smoothened.
Engineering Efficient Technology Transfer
Authors: Lutchen Kenneth , Ayers Jennifer , Gallagher Sean , Abu-Taleb Laith
Published: November 2011

Academic and industry leaders strategize for efficient translation of university-driven biomedical engineering innovations.
Glowing Tumors Make for Better Detection and Resection
Authors: Bouvet Michael , Hoffman Robert M.
Published: November 2011

Tumor-specific fluorescent probes that can be administered topically make tumors selectively fluorescent and thus have great potential for improving cancer detection and removal.
Leukemia: The Master Vampire
Authors: Emadi Ashkan
Published: November 2011

Secretion of VEGF by leukemia cells involves the activation of the FMS-like tyrosine kinase-3 pathway.
Lights Off—But Is Somebody Home?
Authors: Mashour George A.
Published: November 2011

High-resolution EEG reveals consciousness in patients diagnosed with vegetative state by current behavioral criteria.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation before defibrillation in the out-of-hospital setting: a literature review: Table 1
Authors: Winship Christian , Williams Brett , Boyle Malcolm J
Published: November 2011

Background

Many studies over the past decade have investigated delaying initial defibrillation to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), as it has been associated with increased rates of restoration of spontaneous circulation and/or survival. Since 2006, a number of studies have investigated these procedures. The objective of this study was to undertake a literature review examining the commencement of CPR before defibrillation in the out-of-hospital setting.

Methods

A literature review was undertaken using the electronic medical databases Ovid Medline, EMBASE, CINHAL Plus, Cochrane Systematic Review and Meditext, from their commencement to the end of June 2011. Keywords used in the search included: CPR, defibrillation, ventricular fibrillation, VF, EMS, EMT, paramedic, emergency medical service, emergency medical technician, prehospital, out-of-hospital and ambulance. References of relevant articles were also reviewed.

Findings

Of the 3079 articles located, 10 met the inclusion criteria. The results of these studies showed conflicting results. All retrospective studies (n=6) indicated a benefit in performing pre-shock CPR on patients with ventricular fibrillation for durations between 90 and 180 s. Conversely, all randomised controlled trials demonstrated no benefit from providing CPR before defibrillation compared with immediate defibrillation for return of spontaneous circulation, neurological outcome and/or survival to hospital discharge. However, none of the studies reported evidence that CPR before defibrillation is harmful.

Conclusion

Conflicting evidence remains regarding the benefit of CPR before defibrillation. The establishment of a consistent timeframe of chest compressions before defibrillation in the out-of-hospital setting will provide uniformity in standards in clinical practice and education and training.
High-sensitivity troponin T for early rule-out of myocardial infarction in recent onset chest pain
Authors: Aldous Sally , Pemberton Chris , Richards A Mark , Troughton Richard , Than Martin
Published: November 2011

Objective

To investigate whether a high-sensitivity troponin assay, shown to improve early detection of acute myocardial infarction (AMI), permits accelerated rule-in/rule-out of AMI.

Methods

Patients who presented to the emergency department within 4 h of the onset of chest pain suggestive of acute coronary syndrome were prospectively recruited from November 2007 to April 2010. Blood samples were taken at 0, 1, 2 and 12–24 h after presentation and were analysed for clinically applied troponin I and for high-sensitivity troponin T (hsTnT). The dynamic change in hsTnT levels between time points was measured. The primary outcome was admission diagnosis of AMI.

Results

Of the 385 patients recruited, 82 (21.3%) had AMI. The sensitivity of hsTnT by 2 h was 95.1% (88.7–98.1%), specificity 75.6% (73.8–76.5%), positive predictive value 53.8% (50.2–55.5%) and negative predictive value 98.3% (96.0–99.3%). The sensitivity was not statistically different between peak values at 2 h and 24 h. Adding ECG results reduced the false negative rate to 1.2%. The additional application of ≥20% delta criterion over the 2 h period for 0–2 h samples increased specificity to 92.4% (90.2–94.3%) but reduced sensitivity to 56.1% (48.0–63.2%).

Conclusion

hsTnT taken at 0 and 2 h after presentation, together with ECG results, could identify patients suitable for early stress testing with a false negative rate for AMI of 1.2%. Further trials of such an approach are warranted. The specificity of hsTnT for diagnosing AMI could be improved by the use of a delta of ≥20%, but at the cost of major reductions in sensitivity.
Proportion of out-of-hospital adult non-traumatic cardiac or respiratory arrest among calls for seizure
Authors: Dami Fabrice , Rossetti Andrea O , Fuchs Vincent , Yersin Bertrand , Hugli Olivier
Published: November 2011

Objectives

To measure the proportion of adult non-traumatic cardiac or respiratory arrest among calls for seizure to an emergency medical dispatch centre and to record whether known epileptic patients present cardiac or respiratory arrest together with seizure.

Methods

This 2-year prospective observational investigation involved the collection of tape recordings of all incoming calls to the emergency medical dispatch centre, in which an out-of-hospital non-traumatic seizure was the chief complaint in patients >18 years, in addition to the paramedics' records of all patients who presented with respiratory or cardiac arrest. The authors also recorded whether the bystander spontaneously mentioned to the dispatcher that the victim was known to have epilepsy.

Results

During the 24-month period, the call centre received 561 incoming calls for an out-of-hospital non-traumatic seizure in an adult. Twelve cases were classified as cardiac or respiratory arrest by paramedics. In one case, the caller spontaneously mentioned that the victim had a history of epilepsy. The proportion of cardiac or respiratory arrest among calls for seizure was 2.1%.

Conclusion

Although these cases are rare, dispatchers should closely monitor seizure patients with the help of bystanders to exclude an out-of-hospital cardiac or respiratory arrest, in which case the dispatcher can offer telephone cardiopulmonary resuscitation advice until the paramedics arrive. Whenever the activity of the centre allows it and no new incoming call is on hold, this can be achieved by staying on the line with the caller or by calling back. A history of epilepsy should not modify the type of monitoring performed by the dispatcher as those patients may also have an arrest together with seizure.
Doctors' working conditions in emergency care units in Germany: a real-time assessment
Authors: Mache Stefanie , Vitzthum Karin , Klapp Burghard F , Groneberg David A
Published: November 2011

Background and objectives

As interest in doctors' work in Germany has increased over the last few years, this study determines how doctors spend their work time in emergency departments. The study also provides information on patient load and working conditions in emergency units.

Methods and material

An observational time-and-motion study was carried out at three emergency departments. A single investigator followed emergency doctors and recorded the time spent on various work activities. Job activities were classified into 12 different main categories, including direct or indirect patient care.

Results

The data showed that doctors in emergency departments had to work overtime (M=09.17 h). They performed more than 80 tasks per day and were forced to handle multitasking situations. Indirect patient care and administrative duties were the main tasks doctors spent time on during the day. Direct patient care and contact represented only a small proportion of work time.

Conclusion

Doctors working in emergency care units have to deal with highly unpredictable workloads and overtime work, and simultaneously should also care for patients and interact with a large number of different persons during each work shift. The findings of this study are useful in efforts to improve emergency medical care and doctors' working conditions.
The arts and medicine: a challenging relationship
Authors: Macneill Paul Ulhas
Published: November 2011

This paper discusses various justifications for including medical humanities and art in healthcare education. It expresses concern about portrayals of the humanities and art as benign and servile in relation to medicine and the health professions. An alternative is for the humanities to take a more active role within medical education by challenging the assumptions and myths of the predominant biomedical model. Another is to challenge quiescent notions of the arts by examining examples of recent provocative work and, to this end, the paper considers the work of performance artists Stelarc and Orlan who have subjected their bodies to modifications and extensions. Their work challenges, and potentially undermines, conceptions of the body, medicine, and humanity's relationship with technology. Similarly, other artists, working with biological cultures, have raised controversial issues. Recent work of this kind defies easy understanding and resists being pressed into the service of medicine and other health professions for educational purposes by opening up topics for exploration and discussion without providing unitary explanatory frameworks. The paper goes on to discuss the implications for medical education if this is the approach to the arts and humanities in healthcare education. It suggests that there needs to be a shift in the foundational assumptions of medicine if the arts and humanities are to contribute more fully.
Race, gender and the impossibilities of care
Authors: Swartz Leslie
Published: November 2011

Informal care work is indispensible to healthcare but is often invisible. Using my own experience with carers who looked after my dying mother, I explore the submerged racial and gender politics of care work, issues which have a particular relevance in South Africa. I raise the question of whether it is possible for powerful professionals like myself to engage with care workers in ways which do not reproduce patterns of exclusion and exploitation. Telling of and thinking about ‘private’ stories which are intimate and visceral experiences may help us to think more clearly and more visibly about the politics of care work.
Patch dynamics and the development of structural and spatial heterogeneity in Pacific Northwest forests
Authors: Kane Van R. , Gersonde Rolf F. , Lutz James A. , McGaughey Robert J. , Bakker Jonathan D. , Franklin Jerry F.
Published: November 2011

Over time, chronic small-scale disturbances within forests should create distinct stand structures and spatial patterns. We tested this hypothesis by measuring the structure and spatial arrangement of gaps and canopy patches. We used airborne LiDAR data from 100 sites (cumulative 11.2 km2) in the Pacific Northwest, USA, across a 643 year chronosequence to measure canopy structure, patch and gap diversity, and scales of variance. We used airborne LiDAR’s ability to identify strata in canopy surface height to distinguish patch spatial structures as homogeneous canopy structure, matrix–patch structures, or patch mosaics. We identified six distinct stand structure classes that were associated with the canopy closure, competitive exclusion, maturation, and three patch mosaics stages of late seral forest development. Structural variance peaked in all classes at the tree-to-tree and tree-to-gap scales (10–15 m), but many sites maintained high variance at scales >30 m and up to 200 m, emphasizing the high patch-to-patch heterogeneity. The time required to develop complex patch and gap structures was highly variable and was likely linked to individual site circumstances. The high variance at larger scales appears to be an emergent property that is not a simple propagation of processes observed at smaller spatial scales.
Optimal structure and development of uneven-aged Norway spruce forests
Authors: Tahvonen Olli
Published: November 2011

Optimal harvesting of Norway spruce ( Picea abies (L.) Karst.) forests is studied applying an individual-tree model for uneven-aged management. Optimization is carried out by gradient-based, large-scale interior point methods. Assuming volume maximization and natural regeneration, it is optimal to apply uneven-aged management. Under artificial regeneration, the result is the reverse. Economically optimal solutions with a 20-year harvesting interval produce an annual sawn timber output of 4.4–2.4 m3·ha–1 depending on thermal zone and interest rate. Before harvest basal area varies between 18 and 12 m2·ha–1 and the diameter of harvested trees between 15 and 33 cm. In contrast with the classic inverted J-structure, optimal steady-state size structure resembles a serrate form. Profitability of even- and uneven-aged management is compared assuming that the initial stand state represents an optimal uneven-aged steady state. A switch to even-aged management is optimal given the most favorable growth conditions and interest rate below 1%–2%. In other cases, it is economically optimal to continue uneven-aged management although volume output remains lower than under even-aged management.
Butt rot incidence, causal fungi, and related yield loss in Picea abies stands of Latvia
Authors: Arhipova N. , Gaitnieks T. , Donis J. , Stenlid J. , Vasaitis R.
Published: November 2011

Root and butt rot is the most destructive disease of conifers in the Northern Hemisphere, but little is known about the dynamics of yield loss in stands of different ages, site types, and species composition. This study aimed to estimate butt rot incidence, causal fungi, and related wood yield loss in Picea abies (L.) H. Karst. stands in Latvia. A total of 24 745 stumps were examined on 318 forest sites, and 21.8% of them contained rot. There was a positive correlation between stand age and butt rot frequency. Proportion of other tree species in a stand had no influence on incidence of the rot, but significant differences were observed among different forest site types. The length of decay columns in 114 stems analysed was 6.6 ± 2.6 m on average. Based on the observed butt rot frequencies in Latvian P. abies stands of different age classes, volumes of decay-degraded wood in a fully stocked stand would comprise about 19.7 m3·ha–1 at the age of 40 years, 57.4 m3·ha–1 at 60 years, 54.9 m3·ha–1 at 80 years, 63.1 m3·ha–1 at 100 years, and 91.8 m3·ha–1 at 120 years, corresponding to 6%–16% of a total standing volume.
A mixed-modes approach for estimating hiking on trails through diverse forest landscapes: the case of the Appalachian Trail
Authors: Zarnoch Stanley J. , Bowker J.M. , Cordell H. Ken
Published: November 2011

Many hiking trails traverse the forests and public lands across North America. It has therefore become important for federal management to gain an understanding of total use on these trails. However, there has never been a formal attempt to estimate hiking on these long, backcountry trails. This paper presents an approach that utilizes two survey instruments (exit-site tallies and a trail-user questionnaire) and two primary estimation components (standard and augmented sites) to estimate hikers over a spatial and temporal span. For illustrative purposes, the methodology is applied to a 175 km segment of the Appalachian Trail from 1 June through 14 August 2007. Two alternative estimation methodologies are presented and compared. The model-based approach may be preferred to the design-based approach when sample size is small because it smoothes erratic strata estimates and yields smaller standard errors. However, the design-based approach relaxes an assumption and is more appropriate as sample size increases. In our survey of the Appalachian Trail, there was a 5.6% difference between the visitation estimates based on these two approaches, and such stability reinforces confidence in the methodology.
REMARKS ON A CHERN–SIMONS-LIKE COUPLING
Authors: GAETE PATRICIO
Published: November 2011

We consider the static quantum potential for a gauge theory which includes a light massive vector field interacting with the familiar U (1) QED photon via a Chern–Simons-like coupling, by using the gauge-invariant, but path-dependent, variables formalism. An exactly screening phase is then obtained, which displays a marked departure of a qualitative nature from massive axionic electrodynamics. The above static potential profile is similar to that encountered in axionic electrodynamics consisting of a massless axion-like field, as well as to that encountered in the coupling between the familiar U (1) QED photon and a second massive gauge field living in the so-called U (1)h hidden-sector, inside a superconducting box.
NADPH oxidase-mediated Rac1 GTP activity is necessary for nongenomic actions of the mineralocorticoid receptor in the CA1 region of the rat hippocampus
Authors: Kawakami-Mori Fumiko , Shimosawa Tatsuo , Mu Shengyu , Wang Hong , Ogura Sayoko , Yatomi Yutaka , Fujita Toshiro
Published: November 2011

Mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs) in the central nervous system play important roles in spatial memory, fear memory, salt sensitivity, and hypertension. Corticosterone binds to MRs to induce presynaptic vesicle release and postsynaptic α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor aggregation, which are necessary for induction of long-term potentiation under psychological stress. On the other hand, cognitive dysfunction is an important problem clinically in patients with hypertension, diabetes, and cerebral infarction, and all of these conditions are associated with an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Oxidative stress has been shown to modify the genomic actions of MRs in the peripheral organs; however, there have been no reports until now about the relation between the nongenomic actions of MRs and ROS in the central nervous system. In this study, we investigated the relationship between ROS and the nongenomic actions of MR. We examined the nongenomic actions of MR by measuring the slope of the field excitatory postsynaptic potentials and found that ROS induced an additive increase of these potentials, which was accompanied by Rac1 GTP activation and ERK1/2 phosphorylation. An NADPH oxidase inhibitor, apocynin, blocked the nongenomic actions of MRs. A Rac1 inhibitor, NSC23766, was also found to block synaptic enhancement and ERK1/2 phosphorylation induced by NADPH and corticosterone. We concluded that NADPH oxidase activity and Rac1 GTP activity are indispensable for the nongenomic actions of MRs and that Rac1 GTP activation induces ERK1/2 phosphorylation in the brain.
Multiple effects of a short-term dexamethasone treatment in human skeletal muscle and adipose tissue
Authors: Viguerie Nathalie , Picard Flora , Hul Gabby , Roussel Balbine , Barbe Pierre , Iacovoni Jason S. , Valle Carine , Langin Dominique , Saris Wim H. M.
Published: November 2011

Glucocorticoids are frequently prescribed drugs with important side-effects such as glucose intolerance and tissue remodeling. The goal was to explore the molecular basis of the response of skeletal muscle and adipose tissue during a short-term dexamethasone treatment to better understand the induction of side-effects of glucocorticoids on these metabolic tissues. Fifteen healthy male subjects were assigned to a 4-day treatment with dexamethasone at 4 mg/day. The primary outcome measures were changes in gene expression profiling of subcutaneous skeletal muscle and adipose tissue. Urinary cortisol, plasma, and metabolic biochemistry were also assessed. In both tissues the prominent observation was a response to stress and increased inflammatory responses. An upregulation of the serum amyloid A was detected in skeletal muscle, adipose tissue, and plasma, whereas circulating levels of C reactive protein, another acute phase protein, decreased along with a worsened insulin sensitivity index. As tissue-specific features, tissue remodeling was shown in skeletal muscle while the adipose tissue exhibited a decreased energy metabolism. Several limitations might be raised due to the small number of subjects investigated: a possible cross talk with the mineralocorticoid receptor, and a single time point may not identify regulations occurring during longitudinal treatment. In line with the known physiological effect of glucocorticoids the early modulation of stress response genes was observed. An unexpected feature was the upregulation of the inflammatory and immune pathways. The identification of novel impact on two glucocorticoid target tissues provides a molecular basis for the design of more specific glucocorticoids devoid of adverse effects.
A Success Story Leading Us to Think Big!
Authors: Kamboj Jasmine , Kamboj Rahul , Shah Tejas , Khosla Pam
Published: November 2011

Immune dysregulation is the hallmark of all autoimmune diseases. It is extremely interesting to study the associations and pathogenesis of the various autoimmune diseases, like the link between the AIHA and CLL. This link is well established and is based on the fact that there is loss of tolerance to the self-antigen, which in turn leads to immunebased hemolytic anemia. Around 30% of the patients with CLL are at the risk of developing AIHA, and 11% eventually develop AIHA. Whether there is any definite linkup between the corrupted immune system and “acute” leukemias/lymphomas is yet to be established. Needless to say, if there was an association between the pathogenesis of the ALLs and AIHA, it would be a landmark in the field of oncology as it would enforce early diagnosis and treatment for the disease which is much more aggressive and found in a comparatively younger age group (predominantly in children and a mean age of 40 years in adults) as compared to its chronic counterparts. The AIHA would serve as a “tip to the underlying iceberg” in these situations, warning us of the cryptic diagnosis.
Clinical Outcome of Hyperuricemia in IgA Nephropathy: A Retrospective Cohort Study and Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Shi Yongjun , Chen Wei , Jalal Diana , Li Zhibin , Chen Wenfang , Mao Haiping , Yang Qiongqiong , Johnson Richard J. , Yu Xueqing
Published: November 2011

Background: Hyperuricemia is an independent risk factor for renal progression in IgA nephropathy (IgAN). However, no study has evaluated the effect of allopurinol on the clinical outcome in hyperuricemic IgAN. Methods: First,a retrospective cohort study of 353 IgAN patients was conducted to explore the relationship between uric acid (UA) and the progression of renal disease over a mean period of 5 years. Then, 40 hyperuricemic IgAN patients were randomized to receive allopurinol (100–300 mg/day) or usual therapy for 6 months. The study outcomes were renal disease progression and/or blood pressure. Results: Hyperuricemia independently predicted renal survival at 1, 3, and 5 years after adjustment for different baseline estimated glomerular filtration rates. In the randomized controlled trial, allopurinol did not significantly alter renal progression or proteinuria. The antihypertensive drug dosage was reduced in 7 of 9 cases with hypertension in the allopurinol group compared to 0 of 9 cases in the control group (p < 0.01). UA levels correlated with mean arterial pressure in normotensive patients (r = 0.388, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Hyperuricemia predicts the progression of IgAN independently of baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate. Allopurinol may improve the control of blood pressure. Further studies are required to explore the effects of lowering UA on renal protection in IgAN.
In vitro/in vivo Correlation of Fast Release Mephenamic Acid Microspheres in Humans
Authors: Etman Mohamed A. , Farid Ragwa M. , Nada Aly H. , Ebian Abdel-Azim R.
Published: November 2011

Objectives: The objectives of this study were to assess the bioavailability of an optimized mephenamic acid (MFA) microspheres (test) against a Ponstan® capsule (reference) in healthy volunteers, and to establish a correlation with in vitro parameters. Subjects andMethods: Four subjects received the test and reference (250 mg MFA each) in a randomized crossover design, separated by a 1-week washout period. The drug was analyzed in plasma by a specific high-performance liquid chromatographic method. The relevant pharmacokinetic parameters [maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), time of peak concentration (Tmax), area under plasma concentration-time curves from 0 to 12 h (AUC0–12) and area under plasma concentration-time curves from zero to ∞ (AUC0–∞)] were calculated from the plasma drug concentration-time data. Results: The test product exhibited faster absorption (Tmax of 1.87 ± 0.482 vs. 2.14 ± 0.20 h; Cmax of 5.91 ± 0.604 vs. 3.58 ± 0.671 µg/ml) when compared to the reference. The relative bioavailability of the test compared to the reference capsule was 172%. Good correlations were established between the in vitro 90% dissolution (T90) and each of the AUC0–12 and Tmax, as well as between the percentage of drug released and plasma concentrations. Conclusion: The formulation of MFA microsphere with polyethylene glycol improved the dissolution rate and bioavailability of MFA, as evidenced by a higher Cmax, AUC0–12 and AUC0–∞, and shorter Tmax values. Good correlations between T90 and both AUC0–12 and Tmax as well as between the percentage of drug released and plasma concentrations were achieved.
Glomerular Density-Associated Changes in Clinicopathological Features of Minimal Change Nephrotic Syndrome in Adults
Authors: Koike Kentaro , Tsuboi Nobuo , Utsunomiya Yasunori , Kawamura Tetsuya , Hosoya Tatsuo
Published: November 2011

Background: Differences in nephron number and/or glomerular size between individuals, in relation to intrauterine growth retardation or low birth weight, have been suggested to affect the clinical course of minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) in children. However, no previous study has investigated the potential influences of these histological variables on the clinical course of adult patients with MCNS. Methods: The glomerular density (GD; the number of non-sclerotic glomeruli per renal cortical area) and the glomerular volume (GV) were evaluated using renal biopsy specimens from adult patients with a histological diagnosis of MCNS (n = 50). Relationships between these variables and clinicopathological features, including the initial response to corticosteroid therapy, were analyzed. Results: Both the GD (1.5–6.5/mm2) and the GV (1.2–4.4 × 106 µm3) showed about 4-fold variations, and a close inverse correlation was observed between these two variables. Notably, the MCNS patients with a low GD showed a trend towards having similar clinicopathological characteristics as patients with a histological diagnosis of focal segmental glomerular sclerosis, as compared to the MCNS patients with a high GD. In addition, during the initial treatment with corticosteroids, the number of patients achieving complete remission was significantly lower in the MCNS patients with a low GD than that in the MCNS patients with a high GD. Conclusion: These results suggest that the GD in renal biopsies may be an important determinant of the glomerular size variability, and can therefore influence the clinical phenotype, such as the response to corticosteroid therapy, in adult patients with MCNS.
Circadian Intraocular Pressure and Blood Pressure Reduction With Timolol 0.5% Solution and Timogel 0.1% in Patients With Primary Open‐Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Quaranta Luciano , Katsanos Andreas , Floriani Irene , Riva Ivano , Russo Andrea , Konstas Anastasios G. P.
Published: November 2011

Purpose: To investigate the circadian and blood pressure (BP) reduction obtained with timolol maleate 0.5% solution administered twice daily versus timolol 0.1% in gel‐forming carbomer administered in the morning in patients with primary open‐angle glaucoma (POAG). Methods: This investigator‐masked, crossover study prospectively enrolled naive POAG patients not receiving systemic cardiovascular medications. Following a baseline evaluation, they were randomized to receive a timolol 0.5% solution or timolol 0.1% hydrogel for 2 months and then switched to the alternative medication for a further 2 months. Intraocular pressure (IOP) phasing (sitting Goldmann tonometry at 10 AM, 2 PM, 6 PM, and 10 PM and supine Perkins tonometry at 2 AM and 6 AM) and ambulatory home BP monitoring were measured at baseline and after each treatment period. Results: On the basis of a prospective sample size estimate, 28 patients were analyzed. Mean 24‐hour IOP decreased from 23.1 ± 0.7 mm Hg at baseline to 18.9 ± 0.6 mm Hg after timolol 0.5% and 18.9 ± 0.8 mm Hg after timolol 0.1% hydrogel (P < .001); both formulations also significantly decreased diurnal, nocturnal, and individual time point IOP in a statistically similar manner. Systolic and diastolic BP remained generally unaffected. The calculated diastolic ocular perfusion pressure was either unaffected or tended to increase with either medication. Conclusion: Both timolol formulations show similar and significant circadian efficacy and have minimal effects on BP and calculated diastolic ocular perfusion pressure.
Pride and Prejudice
Authors: Ashton-James Claire E. , Tracy Jessica L.
Published: November 2011

The present research demonstrates that pride has divergent effects on prejudice, exacerbating or attenuating evaluative biases against stigmatized groups, depending on the form of pride experienced. Specifically, three experiments found that hubristic pride—associated with arrogance and self-aggrandizement—promotes prejudice and discrimination, whereas authentic pride—associated with self-confidence and accomplishment—promotes more positive attitudes toward outgroups and stigmatized individuals. Findings generalized to discriminatory judgments (Experiment 2) and were found to be mediated by empathic concern for the evaluative target. Together, these experiments suggest that pride may be a cause of everyday prejudice and discrimination but that these social consequences depend on whether hubristic or authentic pride is experienced, and the degree to which empathic concern is subsequently aroused.
Postsecularism, piety and fanaticism
Authors: Jansen Yolande
Published: November 2011

This article analyses how recent critiques of secularism in political philosophy and cultural anthropology might productively be combined and contrasted with each other. I will show that Jürgen Habermas' postsecularism takes insufficient account of elementary criticisms of secularism on the part of anthropologists such as Talal Asad and Saba Mahmood. However, I shall also criticize Saba Mahmood’s reading of secularism by arguing that, in the end, she replaces the secular–religious divide with a secularity–piety divide; for example, in her reading of Nasr Abu Zayd’s secular Islamic hermeneutics. This inhibits the use of her framework of analysis for a criticism of a problem central to Habermas' postsecularism, namely that it remains focused on specific intensities of belief. I shall then argue that, combined with the anthropological critiques of the secular, the political-historical nature of the fanaticism–piety–violence nexus should be integrated into political philosophical debates on secularism and postsecularism.
Interrater Reliability of Risk Matrix 2000/s
Authors: Wakeling Helen C. , Mann Ruth E. , Milner Rebecca J.
Published: November 2011

Actuarial risk assessment instruments for sexual offenders are often used in high-stakes decision making and therefore should be subject to stringent reliability and validity testing. Furthermore, those involved in the risk assessment of sexual offenders should be aware of the factors that may affect the reliability of these instruments. The present study examined the interrater reliability of the Risk Matrix 2000/s between one field rater and one independent rater with a sample of more than 100 sexual offenders. The results indicated good interrater reliability of the tool, although reliability varies from item to item. A number of factors were identified that seem to reduce the reliability of scoring. The present findings are strengthened by examining interrater reliability of the tool in the usual practitioner context and by calculating a range of reliability statistics. Strategies are suggested to increase reliability in the use of actuarial tools in routine practice.
Testing Healthy Immigrant Effects Among Late Life Immigrants in the United States
Authors: Choi Sunha H.
Published: November 2011

Objectives: This study tested a healthy immigrant effect (HIE) and postimmigration health status changes among late life immigrants. Methods: Using three waves of the Second Longitudinal Study of Aging (1994-2000) and the linked mortality file through 2006, this study compared (a) chronic health conditions, (b) longitudinal trajectories of self-rated health, (c) longitudinal trajectories of functional impairments, and (d) mortality between three groups (age 70+): (i) late life immigrants with less than 15 years in the United States ( n = 133), (ii) longer term immigrants ( n = 672), and (iii) U.S.-born individuals ( n = 8,642). Logistic and Poisson regression, hierarchical generalized linear modeling, and survival analyses were conducted. Results: Late life immigrants were less likely to suffer from cancer, had lower numbers of chronic conditions at baseline, and displayed lower hazards of mortality during the 12-year follow-up. However, their self-rated health and functional status were worse than those of their counterparts over time. Conclusion: A HIE was only partially supported among older adults.
Blockade of prostaglandin E2 signaling through EP1 and EP3 receptors attenuates Flt3L-dependent dendritic cell development from hematopoietic progenitor cells
Authors: Singh Pratibha , Hoggatt Jonathan , Hu Peirong , Speth Jennifer M. , Fukuda Seiji , Breyer Richard M. , Pelus Louis M.
Published: November 2011

Dendritic cell (DC) homeostasis, like all mature blood cells, is maintained via hierarchal generation from hematopoietic precursors; however, little is known about the regulatory mechanisms governing DC generation. Here, we show that prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is required for optimal Flt3 ligand–mediated DC development and regulates expression of the Flt3 receptor on DC-committed progenitor cells. Inhibition of PGE2 biosynthesis reduces Flt3-mediated activation of STAT3 and expression of the antiapoptotic protein survivin, resulting in increased apoptosis of DC-committed progenitor cells. Reduced DC development caused by diminished PGE2 signaling is reversed by overexpression of Flt3 or survivin in DC progenitors and conversely is mimicked by STAT3 inhibition. PGE2 regulation of DC generation is specifically mediated through the EP1 and EP3 G protein PGE2 receptors. These studies define a novel DC progenitor regulatory pathway in which PGE2 signaling through EP1/EP3 receptors regulates Flt3 expression and downstream STAT3 activation and survivin expression, required for optimal DC progenitor survival and DC development in vivo.
High VWF, low ADAMTS13, and oral contraceptives increase the risk of ischemic stroke and myocardial infarction in young women
Authors: Andersson Helena M. , Siegerink Bob , Luken Brenda M. , Crawley James T. B. , Algra Ale , Lane David A. , Rosendaal Frits R.
Published: November 2011

VWF and ADAMTS13 are major determinants of platelet adhesion after vessel injury. In the present study, we aimed to determine whether VWF or ADAMTS13 plasma antigen levels influence the risks of ischemic stroke (IS) or myocardial infarction (MI) in young women and how these risks are affected by oral contraceptive (OC) use. VWF and ADAMTS13 plasma antigen levels were measured in a frequency-matched case-control study of 1018 young (18-49 years) women including 175 IS patients and 205 MI patients. Increasing levels of VWF and decreasing levels of ADAMTS13 were associated with the risk of IS and MI in a dose-dependent manner. Having both high VWF and low ADAMTS13 resulted in an odds ratio (OR) of 6.9 (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 2.0-23.0) for IS and 11.3 (95% CI, 3.6-35.2) for MI. Use of OCs increased the risk of IS and MI associated with high VWF (OR = 12; 95% CI, 5.5-26.2 and OR = 7.5, 95% CI, 3.6-15.7, respectively) and the risk of IS associated with low ADAMTS13 (OR = 5.8, 95% CI, 2.7-12.4). We conclude that high VWF and low ADAMTS13 plasma levels both increase the risk of IS and MI. The risks associated with high VWF or low ADAMTS13 levels are further increased by the use of OCs.
Dynamic expression of synemin isoforms in mouse embryonic stem cells and neural derivatives
Authors: de Souza Martins Sheila C , Agbulut Onnik , Diguet Nicolas , Larcher Jean-Christophe , Paulsen Bruna S , Rehen Stevens K , Moura-Neto Vivaldo , Paulin Denise , Li Zhenlin , Xue Zhigang
Published: November 2011

Background

Intermediate filaments (IFs) are major components of the mammalian cytoskeleton and expressed in cell-type-specific patterns. Morphological changes during cell differentiation are linked to IF network remodeling. However, little is known concerning the presence and the role of IFs in embryonic stem (ES) cells and during their differentiation.

Results

We have examined the expression profile of synemin isoforms in mouse pluripotent ES cells and during their neural differentiation induced by retinoic acid. Using RT-PCR, Western blotting and immunostaining, we show that synemin M is present at both mRNA and protein levels in undifferentiated ES cells as early as pluripotency factor Oct-3/4 and IF keratin 8. Synemin H was produced only in neural precursors when neural differentiation started, concurrently with synemin M, nestin and glial fibrillary acidic protein. However, both synemin H and M were restricted to the progenitor line during the neural differentiation program. Our in vivo analysis also confirmed the expression of synemins H/M in multipotent neural stem cells in the subventricular zone of the adult brain, a neurogenic germinal niche of the mice. Knocking down synemin in ES cells by shRNA lentiviral particles transduction has no influence on expression of Oct4, Nanog and SOX2, but decreased keratin 8 expression.

Conclusions

Our study shows a developmental stage specific regulation of synemin isoforms in ES cells and its neural derivatives. These findings represent the first evidence that synemins could potentially be useful markers for distinguishing multipotent ES cells from undifferentiated neural stem cells and more committed progenitor cells.