bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Should all patients with COPD be exercise trained?
Authors: Ribeiro Fernanda , Thériault Marie-Eve , Debigaré Richard , Maltais François
Published: February 2013

Exercise training is one of the most powerful interventions to provide symptomatic relief in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The purpose of this minireview is to discuss how exercise training can improve limb muscle dysfunction in this disease. Various exercise training strategies will be outlined, along with their beneficial effects and potential limitations. Strategies to optimize the gains achievable with exercise training will be presented. Whether exercise training may exert deleterious effects in some patients will also be discussed.
Low Glomerular Filtration Rate Increases Hemorrhagic Transformation in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Lee Jung-Gon , Lee Kyung Bok , Jang Il-Mi , Roh Hakjae , Ahn Moo-Young , Woo Hee-Yeon , Hwang Hye-Won
Published: February 2013

Background: Decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR) can increase the risk of bleeding tendency and hemorrhagic stroke. However, the relationship between the levels of GFR and hemorrhagic transformation (HT) after acute ischemic stroke is largely unknown. The aim of this study was to assess whether GFR level is associated with HT in acute ischemic stroke. Methods: We reviewed 770 consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke within 7 days from September 2007 to February 2012 in a prospective stroke registry database. We calculated the patient’s GFR using the Cockcroft-Gault equation, and divided them into 3 groups: ≥60, 30–59 and <30 ml/min/1.73 m2. HTs were identified by follow-up computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging, and were defined as (1) any degree of high density within the area of low attenuation of vascular territory on noncontrast brain CT, or (2) low-signal intensity area in gradient echo within high-signal intensity meaning acute infarct on diffusion-weighted imaging. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to estimate the risk of GFR for HT. Stratification analyses were done according to the presence of HT high risk factors: atrial fibrillation (AF), thrombolysis and large size infarction. Additional logistic regression model for symptomatic HTs was established with the same variables. Results: HTs were noted in 131 patients (17.0%) and symptomatic HTs in 63 patients (8.2%). In univariate analysis, HTs were more frequent in patients with AF (51.9 vs. 16.7%, p < 0.001) and large-size infarction (42.0 vs. 5.3%, p < 0.001). The risk of HT was associated with decreased GFR among 3 subgroups classified according to the value of estimated GFR: 49/394 (12.4%) in the GFR ≥60 group, 66/312 (21.2%) in the 30≤ GFR <59 group and 16/64 (25.0%) in the GFR <30 group (p = 0.002). We found a significant association between the GFR <30 group and HTs in acute ischemic stroke (OR 2.90; 95% CI 1.26–6.68, p = 0.012) after adjusting for other risk factors. Moreover, the incidence of HTs was higher in the subgroups without thrombolysis (OR 3.49; 95% CI 1.44–8.46) and without AF (OR 3.44; 95% CI 1.10–10.76). Decreased GFR also had a tendency of increasing symptomatic HTs (OR 2.39; 95% CI 0.72–7.94, p = 0.154). Conclusions: Low levels of GFR are associated with a high risk of HT after acute ischemic stroke. Further studies are needed to elucidate whether HT in the patients with renal insufficiency are related to a worse outcome after acute ischemic stroke.
A Highly Sensitive and Specific Chemiluminescent Enzyme Immunoassay for Placental Alkaline Phosphatase in the Cerebrospinal Fluid of Patients with Intracranial Germinomas
Authors: Watanabe Shinichiro , Aihara Yasuo , Kikuno Akira , Sato Toyoji , Komoda Tsugikazu , Kubo Osami , Amano Kosaku , Okada Yoshikazu , Koyamaishi Yoshihiro
Published: February 2013

Background: Placental alkaline phosphatase (PLAP) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) has been proposed as a tumor marker for intracranial germinomas. The purpose of the present study was to develop a sensitive assay for measuring CSF PLAP and to evaluate the clinical significance of PLAP in patients with germinomas. Methods: A chemiluminescent enzyme assay for PLAP was developed using an anti-human-PLAP monoclonal antibody. PLAP concentrations were determined in 37 controls, 36 germinomas, 3 nongerminomatous germ cell tumors, 21 gliomas and 12 other brain tumors. Results: The assay detection limit was 5 pg/ml. The median PLAP concentration in the control group was below the detection limit. Significantly higher PLAP levels were detected in all 36 germinoma patients, with values ranging from 16 to 3,700 pg/ml. The high PLAP concentrations of 17 germinoma patients decreased to below the detection limit after complete remission had been achieved with radiochemotherapy. The sensitivity and specificity of PLAP for germinomas were 94 and 97%, respectively, with a cutoff value of 30 pg/ml. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that the determination of CSF PLAP by the chemiluminescent method described here provides a clinically useful tumor marker for the diagnosis and monitoring of intracranial germinomas.
Using Aerobic Exercise to Improve Health Outcomes and Quality of Life in Stroke: Evidence-Based Exercise Prescription Recommendations
Authors: Pang Marco Y.C. , Charlesworth Sarah A. , Lau Ricky W.K. , Chung Raymond C.K.
Published: February 2013

Background: Stroke patients often suffer from poor cardiovascular health and deficits in physical, psychosocial and cognitive functioning. Aerobic exercise training may be a viable treatment approach to address these health issues. The objective of this systematic review was to determine the effects of aerobic exercise on various indicators of health, functioning and quality of life in stroke patients. It was hypothesized that the systematic review would reveal compelling support for the effectiveness of aerobic exercise in stroke patients, such that detailed evidence-based exercise prescription recommendations could be derived. Methods: Major electronic databases were searched systematically to identify randomized controlled studies that examined the effects of aerobic exercise in stroke patients (last search performed in January 2012). The methodological quality of each study was evaluated using the PEDro scale (9–10 = excellent; 6–8 = good; 4–5 = fair; <4 = poor). Based on the methodological quality and sample size used, the level of evidence was determined for each study (level 1: PEDro ≥6 and sample size >50; level 2: PEDro ≤5 or sample size ≤50). Meta-analysis was performed on a given outcome when appropriate. Results: Twenty-five trials fulfilled the selection criteria, of which 8 were level 1 studies. Treadmill and cycle ergometer were the two most popular modalities used to provide aerobic training. The most commonly adopted exercise session duration and frequency was 21–40 min and 3–5 days per week, respectively. The duration of the training programme varied, ranging from 3 weeks to 6 months. Over 60% of the trials used a high training intensity [60–80% heart rate reserve (HRR)]. Meta-analysis showed a significant effect on peak oxygen consumption (p < 0.001), peak workload (p < 0.001), maximal gait speed (p = 0.003) and walking endurance (p < 0.001) in favour of aerobic exercise. Meta-analysis revealed no significant effect on self-selected gait speed, Berg balance score and Functional Independence Measure score. The efficacy of aerobic exercise in improving other health outcomes in physical, psychosocial and cognitive domains as well as quality of life was inconclusive. The health risk associated with engaging in such exercise is small. Conclusions: There is strong evidence that aerobic exercise (40–50% HRR progressing to 60–80%) conducted 20–40 min and 3–5 days per week is beneficial for enhancing aerobic fitness, walking speed and walking endurance in people who have had mild to moderate stroke and are deemed to have low cardiovascular risk with exercise after proper screening assessments (grade A recommendation). The effects of aerobic exercise on other health outcomes require further study.
Slow-Release Oral Morphine Sulfate Abuse: Results of the Postmarketing Surveillance Systems for Psychoactive Prescription Drug Abuse in France
Authors: Peyriere Hélène , Eiden Céline , Micallef Joëlle , Lapeyre-Mestre Maryse , Faillie Jean-Luc , Blayac Jean-Pierre ,   and the network of the French Centre for Evaluation and Information on Pharmacodependence
Published: February 2013

Background: Few data are available concerning the diversion and abuse of morphine sulfate. In France, morphine sulfate abuse is currently investigated by the health authorities. The aim of our study was to provide data on morphine sulfate abuse in France, collected during the period 1996–2011. Methods: The French monitoring system for psychoactive medication abuse collected data from several sources: spontaneous reporting of cases of abuse or dependence (NotS; ‘Notifications Spontanées’), specific periodic surveys from specialized care centers (OPPIDUM; ‘Observation des Produits Psychotropes Illicites ou Détournés de leur Utilisation Médicamenteuse’), and community pharmacists (OSIAP; ‘Ordonnances Suspectes Indicateur d’Abus Possible’). Results: A total of 649 cases (75% men, median age: 34 years) were spontaneously reported: 578 cases of abuse and 71 cases of use as opiate maintenance treatment. The medication formulation was Skenan® (614 cases), and Moscontin® (35 cases). All surveys (NotS, OPPIDUM, and OSIAP) showed an overrepresentation of Skenan® (87.9–94.6% of cases) that was intravenously injected in 60.4–61.2% of the cases. Data analysis showed that patients abusing morphine sulfate have a long history of drug abuse and a history of polydrug use. Conclusion: All the data presented in this study highlight the level of morphine sulfate abuse, specify the modalities of use (intravenous route), and show the risks associated with abuse (infectious diseases). This study outlines the usefulness of our epidemiological tools, and provides evidence supporting intensive surveillance.
Assessment of the Effect of 24-Hour Aldosterone Administration on Protein Abundance in Fluorescence-Sorted Mouse Distal Renal Tubules by Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Jensen Thomas B. , Pisitkun Trairak , Hoffert Jason D. , Jensen Uffe B. , Fenton Robert A. , Praetorius Helle A. , Knepper Mark A. , Praetorius Jeppe
Published: February 2013

Background/Aims: Aldosterone exerts multiple long-term effects on the distal renal tubules. The aim of this study was to establish a method for identifying proteins in these tubules that change in abundance by only 24-hour aldosterone administration. Methods: Mice endogenously expressing green fluorescent protein (eGFP) in the connecting tubule and cortical collecting ducts were treated with a subcutaneous injection of 2.0 mg/kg aldosterone or vehicle (n = 5), and sacrificed 24 h later. Suspensions of single cells were obtained enzymatically, and eGFP-positive cells were isolated by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). Samples of 100 µg of proteins were digested with trypsin and labeled with 8-plex isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation reagents and processed for liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Results: FACS yielded 1.4 million cells per mouse. The LC-MS/MS spectra were matched to peptides by the SEQUEST search algorithm, which identified 3,002 peptides corresponding to 506 unique proteins, of which 20 significantly changed abundance 24 h after aldosterone injection. Conclusion: We find the method suitable and useful for studying hormonal effects on protein abundance in distal tubular segments.
Cyclosporine-Induced Tubular Vacuolization: The Role of Bip/Grp78
Authors: Cheng Chi-Hung , Shu Kuo-Hsiung , Chang Horng-Rong , Chou Ming-Chih
Published: February 2013

Cyclosporine (CsA) nephrotoxicity shows characteristic tubular vacuolization (TV) which is endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in origin. However, the cellular events of CsA-induced TV and CsA-induced ER remained unclear. The aim of the present study was to study the nature of TV and the correlation to ER stress. Using proximal tubule NRK-52E cells in vitro and an in vivo model of acute CsA nephrotoxicity, we confirmed that CsA-induced TV was ER in origin and potentially reversible. Our results showed that CsA-induced ER stress and involved ER integrated stress response-related proteins (Bip/Grp78, ATF6, IRE1 and CHOP) but not cytoplasmic ER stress-related chaperones (HSP70, HSP40, HSP27, HSP90 and HSP60). Importantly, Bip/Grp78 was overexpressed on the membrane of TV and suppression of Bip/Grp78 blocked TV formation. In addition, suppression of Bip/Grp78-enhanced CsA-induced cell death and CsA-induced TV formation and Bip/Grp78 overexpression had a characteristic striped pattern in the tubulointerstitium. In summary, we demonstrate that CsA-induced TV was a potentially reversible process in which Bip/Grp78 overexpression is essential for TV formation. It is possible that Bip/Grp78 expression and TV formation may be involved in cellular defense mechanism against CsA nephrotoxicity.
Deletion of the Activated Protein-1 Transcription Factor JunD Induces Oxidative Stress and Accelerates Age-Related Endothelial Dysfunction
Authors: Paneni Francesco , Osto Elena , Costantino Sarah , Mateescu Bogdan , Briand Sylvie , Coppolino Giuseppe , Perna Enrico , Mocharla Pavani , Akhmedov Alexander , Kubant Ruslan , Rohrer Lucia , Malinski Tadeusz , Camici Giovanni G. , Matter Christian M. , Mechta-Grigoriou Fatima , Volpe Massimo , Lüscher Thomas F. , Cosentino Francesco
Published: February 2013

Background—

Reactive oxygen species are major determinants of vascular aging. JunD, a member of the activated protein-1 family of transcription factors, is emerging as a major gatekeeper against oxidative stress. However, its contribution to reactive oxygen species homeostasis in the vasculature remains unknown.

Methods and Results—

Endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation was impaired in young and old
JunD
−/−
mice (6 and 22 months old) compared with age-matched wild-type mice.
JunD
−/−
mice displayed an age-independent decline in endothelial nitric oxide release and endothelial nitric oxide synthase activity and increased mitochondrial superoxide formation and peroxynitrite levels. Furthermore, vascular expression and activity of the free radical scavengers manganese and extracellular superoxide dismutase and aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 were reduced, whereas the NADPH oxidase subunits p47phox, Nox2, and Nox4 were upregulated. These redox changes were associated with premature vascular aging, as shown by reduced telomerase activity, increased β-galactosidase–positive cells, upregulation of the senescence markers p16
INK4a
and p53, and mitochondrial disruption. Interestingly, old wild-type mice showed a reduction in JunD expression and transcriptional activity resulting from promoter hypermethylation and binding with tumor suppressor menin, respectively. In contrast, JunD overexpression blunted age-induced endothelial dysfunction. In human endothelial cells, JunD knockdown exerted a similar impairment of the O
2
−
/nitric oxide balance that was prevented by concomitant NADPH inhibition. In parallel, JunD expression was reduced in monocytes from old versus young healthy subjects and correlated with mRNA levels of scavenging and oxidant enzymes.

Conclusions—

JunD provides protection in aging-induced endothelial dysfunction and may represent a novel target to prevent reactive oxygen species–driven vascular aging.
Cerebral Atrophy is an Independent Risk Factor for Unfavorable Outcome After Spontaneous Supratentorial Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Herweh Christian , Prager Eric , Sykora Marek , Bendszus Martin
Published: February 2013

Background and Purpose—

To investigate the influence of cerebral atrophy on clinical outcome in patients with supratentorial intracerebral hemorrhage.

Methods—

Computed tomography scans of 320 patients included in a prospective, multicenter trial were used for a segmentation analysis to determine the supratentorial cerebral volume. A logistic regression analysis was used to explore its effect on outcome after 90 days in addition to other clinical and imaging parameters.

Results—

Cerebral volume loss significantly reduced the odds for favorable outcome after 90 days (odds ratio=0.91; confidence interval, 0.85–0.99;
P
=0.02).

Conclusions—

Cerebral atrophy is an independent predictor of unfavorable outcome after intracerebral hemorrhage, indicating reduced functional recovery potential in these individuals.
Estimating the Willingness to Pay of Industrial Firms for Japanese Industrial Parks
Authors: Itoh Ryo
Published: February 2013

This study aims to investigate the determinants of the willingness to pay (WTP) of industrial firms and the sales price of public companies for industrial parks, and the gap between the two. The sales price is estimated using ordinary least squares (OLS), while WTP and the gap are estimated using random-WTP probit models and disaggregated sales data of Japanese industrial parks between 2002 and 2007. Testing the model reveals two important differences between firms’ WTP and sales price. First, the sale price is decided in order to cover the development cost since only the sale price is influenced by the average land price of each region while WTP is not. Secondly, the current demand of the industrial sector is insufficiently represented in the sales price; this is because firms’ WTP is significantly more sensitive than suppliers’ sales prices in terms of accessibility to both large and small cities and agglomeration economies.
Institutional Conflict and the Bolivarian Revolution
Authors: Nelson Marcel
Published: February 2013

A case study of the shift in Venezuela’s attitude toward the negotiation of the Free Trade Area of the Americas sheds light on Jorge Castañeda’s distinction between a “wrong left” and a “right left” in Latin America. Castañeda’s reliance on the “origins” of Latin American leaders as the primary explanation for their governance styles is both deterministic and incomplete. By employing Nicos Poulantzas’s “relational” approach to the state, which conceptualizes the state as a strategic field of social relations, it becomes possible to conceive that the policies and governance styles of leftist governments in Latin America are as much the result of pressures emanating from the institutions of the state as of the origins of their leaders.

Un estudio del caso del cambio en la actitud venezolana a las negociaciones del Acuerdo de Libre Comercio de las Américas demuestra la distinción que hiciera Jorge Castañeda entre una “mala izquierda” y una “buena izquierda” en América Latina. La dependencia de Castañeda en el tema del “origen” de los líderes latinoamericanos para explicar sus estilos de gobernar es determinista e incompleta. Empleando el acercamiento “relacional” al Estado de Nicos Poulantzas, según el cual el Estado se ve como un campo estratégico de relaciones sociales, es posible concebir que las políticas y los estilos de gobernar de los gobiernos de izquierda latinoamericanos sean tanto el resultado de presiones emanantes de las instituciones del Estado como del origen de sus líderes.
Roles and Strategies of Diabetes Support Group Facilitators
Authors: Costello Joanne F.
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to explore the roles and strategies implemented by diabetes support group facilitators.

Methods

A descriptive exploratory design that included 2 in-depth interviews and 1 group interview of 6 diabetes support group facilitators was implemented over a 2-month period.

Results

The participants described the role of facilitator as involving 4 major aspects: (1) a philosophy of shared authority and group ownership; (2) a conception of diabetes as a highly complex disease interconnected with all aspects of one’s life; (3) a focus on quality of life; and (4) recognition of perfectionism as neither possible nor desirable in self-management. These role aspects formed the context for facilitator strategies in working with support groups. Four strategies were identified based on the individual and group interviews: (1) connecting, (2) exchanging information, (3) managing group dynamics, and (4) promoting problem solving. A facilitator support group model was developed from the study results.

Conclusions

A clear need exists to develop and teach best practices for support group facilitation. Education in this area should occur systematically at the baccalaureate and master’s levels as the role of health providers increasingly expands to include populations living with chronic diseases. Health care providers who are functioning in this role need continuing education to provide proficient care in this area of practice.
Gearing Up for the 2012 Presidential Race
Authors: Copes April E.
Published: February 2013

This study assessed the inclusiveness of New York Times coverage prior to the 2012 presidential election as it relates to the lived experiences of African American voters. The study specifically asked, does the newspaper include substantive information about African American voters, the most pressing social justice concerns facing Black communities, and African American voices? The sampled news discourse is compared to the defining issues for the 21st century identified by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP): racial disparity, economic disparity, health care disparity, education disparity, voter empowerment, and criminal justice. Findings reveal a paucity of coverage about African American voters in 2011. Although most of the articles discussed at least one social justice issue, when the scant coverage is considered, it becomes clear that the attention these issues received was severely lacking. African American voice was also seriously underrepresented.
Mini-extracorporeal circulation minimizes coagulation abnormalities and ameliorates pulmonary outcome in coronary artery bypass grafting surgery
Authors: Zeitani J , Buccisano F , Nardella S , Flaminio M , Prati P , Chiariello G , Venditti A , Chiariello L
Published: February 2013

Hemostasis is impaired during CABG and coagulation abnormalities often result in clinically relevant organ dysfunctions, eventually increasing morbidity and mortality rates. Fifteen consecutive patients with coronary artery disease submitted to conventional extracorporeal circulation (cECC) have been compared with 15 matched patients, using mini-ECC (MECC). Postoperative lung function was evaluated according to gas exchange, intubation time and lung injury score. In the MECC group, thrombin-antithrombin complex levels (TaTc), prothrombin fragments (PF1+2) formation and thromboelastography (TEG) clotting times were lower compared to the cECC group (p=0.002 and p<0.001, respectively) whereas postoperative blood loss was higher in the cECC group (p=0.030) and more patients required blood transfusion (p=0.020). In the MECC group, postoperative gas exchange values were better, intubation time shorter and lung injury score lower (p<0.001 for all comparisons). Our study suggests that MECC induces less coagulation disorders, leading to lower postoperative blood loss and better postoperative lung function. This approach may be advantageous in high-risk patients.
Localism and the community shop
Authors: Calderwood Eric , Davies Keri
Published: February 2013

There has been considerable interest in recent years in the establishment of community retail enterprises; local shops owned and run by the local community often as an alternative to the closure of the last privately-owned shop in the area. Government efforts to give local communities more rights and powers, including a community right to bid for ‘assets of community value,’ would seem to offer new opportunities for such enterprises. However, there are more barriers to the establishment and continued running of these enterprises than might appear at first sight. Community retail enterprises often need specific support from local and national organisations tailored to the different stages in their development if they are to fulfil their potential.
Sexual Health and Overall Wellness (SHOW) survey in men and women in selected European and Middle Eastern countries
Authors: Dean John , Shechter Arik , Vertkin Arkadiy , Weiss Petr , Yaman Onder , Hodik Michal , Ginovker Anna
Published: February 2013

Objective

To investigate whether better sexual health is associated with improvements in overall health and wellness, a more loving and intimate relationship, and a more positive outlook on life.

Methods

The Sexual Health and Overall Wellness survey used self-administered questionnaires to collect data from men and women aged 25–74 years who had had sexual intercourse at least once within the previous 12 months.

Results

Across nine countries, 3780 self-administered questionnaires were completed: 1893 from men (mean age, 44.6 years); 1887 from women (mean age, 44.2 years). The majority of men and women were satisfied with the frequency of sexual intercourse over the previous 4 weeks (59% and 66%, respectively); the majority (67% and 55%, respectively) reported that having sex was ‘very important’ or ‘absolutely essential’. For men and women, there was a strong association between satisfaction with sex and overall health, and between satisfaction with sex and an overall positive outlook on life.

Conclusion

For men and women, satisfaction with different aspects of sex was important, and was strongly associated with satisfaction with general health, relationships and other aspects of wellbeing.
Description of a novel approach to engineer cartilage with porous bacterial nanocellulose for reconstruction of a human auricle
Authors: Feldmann Eva-Maria , Sundberg JF , Bobbili B , Schwarz S , Gatenholm P , Rotter N
Published: February 2013

In this study, we investigated the effects of human primary chondrocytes, derived from routine septorhino- and otoplasties on a novel nondegradable biomaterial. This biomaterial, porous bacterial nanocellulose, is produced by Gluconacetobacter xylinus. Porosity is generated by paraffin beads embedded during the fermentation process. Human primary chondrocytes were able to adhere to bacterial nanocellulose and produce cartilaginous matrix proteins such as aggrecan (after 14 days) and collagen type II (after 21 days) in the presence of differentiation medium. Cells were located within the pores and in a dense cell layer covering the surface of the biomaterial. Cells were able to re-differentiate, as cell shape and extra cellular matrix gene expression showed a chondrogenic phenotype in three-dimensional bacterial nanocellulose culture. Collagen type I and versican expression decreased during three-dimensional culture. Variations in pore sizes of 150–300 µm and 300–500 µm did not influence cartilaginous extra cellular matrix synthesis. Varying seeding densities from 9.95 × 102 to 1.99 × 103 cells/mm2 and 3.98 × 103 cells/mm2 did not result in differences in quality of extra cellular matrix neo-synthesis. Our results demonstrated that both nasal and auricular chondrocytes are equally suitable to synthesize new extra cellular matrix on bacterial nanocellulose. Therefore, we propose both cell sources in combination with bacterial nanocellulose as promising candidates for the special needs of auricular reconstruction.
State Education Agencies, Information Systems, and the Expansion of State Power in the Era of Test-Based Accountability
Authors: Anagnostopoulos Dorothea , Rutledge Stacey , Bali Valentina
Published: February 2013

This article examines how SEAs in three states designed, installed, and operated statewide, longitudinal student information systems (SLSIS). SLSIS track individual students’ progress in K-12 schools, college, and beyond and link it to individual schools and teachers. They are key components of the information infrastructure of test-based accountability. Drawing on science and technology studies, this study documents the strategies SEAs use to assemble and coordinate the vast amounts of technology and people across and beyond the educational system needed to collect, process, and disseminate test-based accountability data through SLSIS. We find that while SLSIS expand state power through what we refer to as informatic power, SEA control over these systems and the data they produce depends on whether SEA staff can manage the competing interests of federal, state, district, and external actors. SLSIS are thus sites of the ongoing contestation of state power within and beyond the educational system.
Critical operating conditions for assemblies with parameter-dependent dimensions
Authors: Armillotta Antonio , Semeraro Quirico
Published: February 2013

This article deals with the analysis of tolerances for an assembly that is bound to meet some functional requirements over a specified range of operating parameters (e.g. temperature, pressure and speed). These can influence part dimensions due to physical effects such as thermal expansion, deformation and wear. When these influences are added to manufacturing errors, unacceptable values of functional requirements can occur under critical conditions on operating parameters. To avoid this, a designer should be able to readily evaluate the operating window allowed to the assembly by a given set of tolerance specifications. A method is proposed to help this task on the assumption that requirements are verified through worst-case linear chains of dimensional tolerances.
Interdisciplinary Conversations and Chocolate Consumption
Authors: Waller Mary J.
Published: February 2013

The use of discipline-specific methodologies can, over time, shape what we believe is important to know about a phenomenon, and can hinder initial conversations about that phenomenon among scholars from different disciplines. In this paper, I suggest ways in which interdisciplinary conference cultures and conference attendee interactions might attenuate these methodological influences and increase the probability of effective interdisciplinary collaboration.
Methylphenidate Reduces State Anxiety During a Continuous Performance Test That Distinguishes Adult ADHD Patients From Controls
Authors: Bloch Yuval , Aviram Shai , Segev Aviv , Nitzan Uri , Levkovitz Yechiel , Braw Yoram , Mimouni Bloch Aviva
Published: February 2013

Objective: We hypothesized that patients with ADHD were typified by distress more than by functional difficulties. Thus, a decline in state anxiety while performing a cognitive task when taking methylphenidate would discriminate between ADHD patients and controls. Method: State anxiety and cognitive performance on a continuous performance test were assessed in ADHD patients and controls with and without taking methylphenidate. Results: State anxiety and cognitive performance improved from baseline in 36 ADHD adults after taking methylphenidate. In 25 controls, cognitive performance improved, but state anxiety did not abate after a recess. In two additional studies, 5 controls were evaluated at baseline and after receiving methylphenidate, and showed improvement in cognitive assessment but not in state anxiety. Five ADHD adults were assessed at baseline and after a recess, and showed no improvement. Conclusion: Our results support the hypothesis that adult ADHD patients are characterized by distress and the relief of this distress under effective therapy as expressed by a decline in state anxiety while they perform a cognitive task.
Xanthine urolithiasis causing bilateral ureteral obstruction in a 10-month-old cat
Authors: Mestrinho Lisa A , Gonçalves Tiago , Parreira Pedro B , Niza Maria MRE , Hamaide Annick J
Published: February 2013

Xanthine urolithiasis was diagnosed in a 10-month-old intact female domestic shorthair cat presented with acute renal failure due to bilateral ureteral obstruction. Ultrasonography revealed the presence of multiple uroliths in both kidneys and ureters that were not detectable on previous survey radiographs. Medical management failed and ureteral obstruction persisted with no evidence of stone migration into the bladder. Bilateral ureterotomy with urolith removal was performed in order to relieve the obstruction. The cat recovered from surgery, and blood urea nitrogen and creatinine values decreased within normal limits 6 days postoperatively. Urolith analysis by infrared spectrometry determined xanthine composition, and a higher blood and urine concentration of hypoxanthine and xanthine was also found. At 1-year follow-up, the cat was free of clinical signs. However, ultrasonography of the abdomen revealed small-size calculi in both kidneys, despite the low protein diet intake. The very young age of the animal suggests a possible congenital xanthinuria.
Prospective evaluation of healthy Ragdoll cats for chronic kidney disease by routine laboratory parameters and ultrasonography
Authors: Paepe Dominique , Bavegems Valérie , Combes Anaïs , Saunders Jimmy H , Daminet Sylvie
Published: February 2013

Ragdoll breeder organisations often forewarn Ragdoll cat owners that renal problems may develop as a result of polycystic kidney disease (PKD), chronic interstitial nephritis, familial renal dysplasia or nephrocalcinosis. Healthy Ragdoll and non-Ragdoll cats were prospectively evaluated by measuring serum creatinine and urea concentrations, routine urinalysis and abdominal ultrasonography. All Ragdoll cats also underwent genetic PKD testing. One hundred and thirty-three Ragdoll and 62 control cats were included. Ragdoll cats had significantly lower serum urea concentrations and higher urinary specific gravity. However, median creatinine concentration, median urinary protein-to-creatinine ratio, and the proportion of cats with serum creatinine or urea concentration exceeding the reference interval did not differ. One or more renal ultrasonographical changes were detected in 66/133 (49.6%) Ragdoll and in 25/62 (40%) control cats. Ragdoll cats showed significantly more frequent segmental cortical lesions (7.5% versus 0%), abnormal renal capsule (19.5% versus 8%) and echogenic urine (51.9% versus 25.8%). Chronic kidney disease (CKD) was ultrasonographically suspected in 7/133 (5.3%) Ragdoll and in none of the control cats, which approached significance. Laboratory parameters confirmed kidney dysfunction only in 1/7 of these Ragdoll cats. All Ragdoll cats were PKD negative. In conclusion, first, breed-specific serum creatinine reference intervals are not likely required for Ragdoll cats. Second, renal ultrasonographical abnormalities are common, both in Ragdoll and non-Ragdoll cats. Third, healthy young Ragdoll cats are uncommonly affected by PKD and CKD, but an increased susceptibility of Ragdoll cats to develop CKD cannot be excluded. Finally, Ragdoll cats are predisposed to segmental cortical lesions, which may indicate renal infarction or cortical scarring.
Cardiovascular and respiratory effects, and quality of anesthesia produced by alfaxalone administered intramuscularly to cats sedated with dexmedetomidine and hydromorphone
Authors: Grubb Tamara L , Greene Stephen A , Perez Tania E
Published: February 2013

The cardiovascular and respiratory effects, and the quality of anesthesia of alfaxalone administered intramuscularly (IM) to cats sedated with dexmedetomidine and hydromorphone were evaluated. Twelve healthy adult cats were anesthetized, with six cats receiving dexmedetomidine (0.01 mg/kg IM) followed by alfaxalone (5 mg/kg IM; group DA) and six receiving dexmedetomidine (0.01 mg/kg IM) plus hydromorphone (0.1 mg/kg IM) followed by alfaxalone (5 mg/kg IM; group DHA). Cardiorespiratory (pulse rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, saturation of oxygen with hemoglobin, end tidal carbon dioxide partial pressure) and bispectral index (BIS) data were collected every 10 mins for 90 mins starting immediately after intubation. The quality of anesthesia was scored by a blinded researcher at induction and at 5 and 60 mins after extubation. Recovery scores ranged from 1 (prolonged struggling) to 4 (no struggling). There were no clinically significant ( P >0.05) differences in any data between groups or over time. Physiologic parameters were within normal limits for cats at all times. BIS values were consistent with light anesthesia in both groups. However, recovery was prolonged and marked with excitement, ataxia and hyper-reactivity in all cats. Thus, although cardiovascular and respiratory parameters are stable following IM injection of alfaxalone to cats sedated with dexmedetomidine and hydromorphone, recovery is extremely poor and this route of administration is not recommended for anesthesia in cats.
Assessing interactions between HLA-DRB1*15 and infectious mononucleosis on the risk of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Disanto Giulio , Hall Carolina , Lucas Robyn , Ponsonby Anne-Louise , Berlanga-Taylor Antonio J , Giovannoni Gavin , Ramagopalan Sreeram V ,   the Ausimmune Investigator Group, Chapman Caron , Coulthard Alan , Dear Keith , Dwyer Terry , Kilpatrick Trevor , Lucas Robyn , McMichael Tony , Pender Michael P , Ponsonby Anne-Louise , Taylor Bruce , Valery Patricia , van der Mei Ingrid , Williams David
Published: February 2013

Gene–environment interactions may shed light on the mechanisms underlying multiple sclerosis (MS). We pooled data from two case-control studies on incident demyelination and used different methods to assess interaction between HLA-DRB1*15 (DRB1-15) and history of infectious mononucleosis (IM). Individuals exposed to both factors were at substantially increased risk of disease (OR=7.32, 95% CI=4.92–10.90). In logistic regression models, DRB1-15 and IM status were independent predictors of disease while their interaction term was not (DRB1-15*IM: OR=1.35, 95% CI=0.79–2.23). However, interaction on an additive scale was evident (Synergy index=2.09, 95% CI=1.59–2.59; excess risk due to interaction=3.30, 95%CI=0.47–6.12; attributable proportion due to interaction=45%, 95% CI=22–68%). This suggests, if the additive model is appropriate, the DRB1-15 and IM may be involved in the same causal process leading to MS and highlights the benefit of reporting gene–environment interactions on both a multiplicative and additive scale.
Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder blame game: A study on the positioning of professionals, teachers and parents
Authors: Frigerio Alessandra , Montali Lorenzo , Fine Michelle
Published: February 2013

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder is currently the most debated childhood psychiatric diagnosis. Given the circulation of competing perspectives about the ‘real’ causes of children’s behaviour and the ‘best’ way to treat them, we aim to analyse the interactions of the central social actors’ discourses about attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder children within the Italian context. Adopting a multi-method approach, we focus on the polyphonic chorus of voices surrounding the child, studying the discourses of mental health professionals, teachers and parents. These actors are representative of three contexts that are deeply engaged with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder: medical institutions, schools and families. Our theoretical and methodological approach integrates positioning theory, the Bakhtinian notion of dialogical thinking and discourse analysis to study stakeholders’ reflexive and interactive positioning in terms of the attribution of rights, duties, responsibilities and power issues. The results show that mutual blame is a constitutive element of relational dynamics among the key adults surrounding attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder children. We argue that these conflicting relationships are not merely related to the debate regarding the validity of the attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder diagnosis. Rather, the mutual blame centres on questions of compliance, recognition of authority and morality. Through the blame game, adults negotiate their own and others’ subjectivity in ways that simultaneously (re)produce power relationships and resistance efforts.
De Martino’s concept of critical ethnocentrism and its relevance to transcultural psychiatry
Authors: Stanghellini Giovanni , Ciglia Raffaella
Published: February 2013

Ethnography and hermeneutics help us think of the clinical encounter as a meeting of cultures. In this paper, we examine Ernesto De Martino’s concept of critical ethnocentrism and its relevance for psychiatry, arguing for the necessity of a cultural self-assessment on the part of the clinician as a means of optimizing analyses of the patient’s culture. Conceptualizing the clinician as an “ethnologist,” we argue that clinicians should be able to describe and acknowledge patients’ cultural backgrounds, while remaining aware of their own culturally rooted prejudices. Focusing on the case of persons affected by schizophrenia, we suggest that De Martino’s work invites an openness to hermeneutic dialogue that aims for the coconstruction of shared narratives by clinician and patient.
Factitious disorders and Münchausen syndrome
Authors: Ferrara Pietro , Vitelli Ottavio , Bottaro Giorgia , Gatto Antonio , Liberatore Pio , Binetti Paola , Stabile Achille
Published: February 2013

This population-based study evaluates the prevalence of factitious disorders, Münchausen syndrome, and Münchausen syndrome by proxy in a clinical setting. All children referred to the Pediatric Unit of the Department of Pediatrics of the Catholic University Medical School (Agostino Gemelli Hospital) in Rome were recruited between November 2007 and March 2010. An experienced interdisciplinary team of medical professionals analyzed all suspected cases. A total of 751 patients were hospitalized. Factitious disorders were diagnosed in 14/751 patients, resulting in a prevalence of 1.8%. Three of 14 (21.4%) patients fulfilled the criteria for Münchausen syndrome. Münchausen syndrome by proxy was identified in four of 751 patients, resulting in a prevalence of 0.53%. The perpetrator was the mother in three of four of these cases. The epidemiological data obtained in this population-based study indicate that the prevalence of factitious disorders, Münchausen syndrome, and Münchausen syndrome by proxy is higher than previously observed. Moreover, early detection was possible thanks to the awareness of an expert interdisciplinary team. We suggest that physicians must consider the possibility of these diagnoses whenever there are discrepancies in a child’s illness presentation.
Foundation impedance and tower transfer functions for offshore wind turbines
Authors: Harte M , Basu B
Published: February 2013

This article investigates the dynamic interaction between a horizontal-axis wind turbine, modelled as a discrete Euler–Lagrangian system, and the soil–foundation system, modelled in a finite element framework. The model comprises a rotor blade system, a nacelle and a flexible tower connected to the soil–foundation system using a substructuring approach. The aerodynamic loading on the rotor blades is modelled using blade element momentum theory. The offshore wind turbine is founded on a monopod suction caisson foundation. The soil–foundation system is modelled using a finite element method (Plaxis 3D dynamics) and a 1D strength of materials based on wave propagation approach (cone method) for comparison. A dynamic-stiffness matrix and a static stiffness matrix formulation are used to represent the soil–foundation behaviour at the mudline. Tower displacement response transfer functions are generated using each soil–foundation model at various soil stiffness. The effects of the soil stiffness on the displacement transfer functions and the wind turbine dynamics are discussed. Results from a static stiffness formulation (with coupling) are seen to match those given by frequency-dependent models, indicating that such simplified models maybe used for analysis under certain conditions.
The angiotensin-converting enzyme insertion/deletion polymorphism and susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis, vitiligo and psoriasis: A meta-analysis
Authors: Song Gwan Gyu , Bae Sang-Cheol , Kim Jae-Hoon , Lee Young Ho
Published: February 2013

Introduction:

The purpose of this study was to examine whether the insertion (I) and deletion (D) of angiotensin-converting enzyme ( ACE) polymorphism confers susceptibility to psoriasis, vitiligo and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Materials and methods:

A meta-analysis was conducted on the association between the ACE I/D polymorphisms and psoriasis, vitiligo and RA.

Results:

Fifteen studies comprising five on psoriasis, five on vitiligo and five on RA were available for the meta-analysis consisting of 2094 cases and 2871 controls. Meta-analysis of the DD+ID genotype showed significant associations with psoriasis (odds ratio (OR) 0.753, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.601–0.921, p = 0.006). Meta-analysis showed no association between vitiligo and the ACE I/D polymorphism. Meta-analysis of the DD+ID genotype showed an association with RA (OR 2.199, 95% CI 1.379–3.506, p = 0.001). Ethnicity-specific meta-analysis of the D allele showed no association with psoriasis in Europeans, and vitiligo in South Asians. However, subgroup analysis by ethnicity revealed a significant association between the D allele and RA in Arab populations (OR 2.697, 95% CI 1.803–4.034, p = 1.3 × 10−5).

Conclusions:

Our meta-analysis demonstrates that the ACE I/D polymorphism is associated with susceptibility to RA, especially in Arab populations.
Modeling multivariate distributions using Monte Carlo simulation for structural reliability analysis with complex performance function
Authors: Li Dian-Qing , Jiang Shui-Hua , Wu Shuai-Bing , Zhou Chuang-Bing , Zhang Li-Min
Published: February 2013

The simulation of multivariate distributions has not been investigated extensively. This article aims to propose Monte Carlo simulation (MCS)-based procedures for modeling the joint probability distributions and estimating the probabilities of failure of complex performance functions. Two approximate methods, namely method P and method S, often used to construct multivariate distributions with given marginal distributions and covariance, are introduced. The MCS-based procedures are proposed to simulate the theoretical multivariate distributions or approximate multivariate distributions constructed by methods P and S, which are further used to compute the probabilities of failure of complex performance functions. Four illustrative examples with known theoretical joint probability distributions are investigated to examine the accuracy of the proposed procedures in modeling the multivariate distributions and estimating the probabilities of failure. The results indicate that the bivariate distributions can be effectively simulated by the proposed procedures, which can evaluate the reliability of complex performance functions efficiently. These provide a useful tool for solving the reliability problems with complex performance functions involving correlated random variables under incomplete probability information. The performance of the simulation procedures associated with the two approximate methods highly depends on the level of probability of failure, the form of performance function, and the degree of correlation between variables.