bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prolonged but Not Short Negative Energy Condition Restored Corticoadrenal Leptin Sensitivity in the Hypothalamic Obese Rat
Authors: Perello Mario , Castrogiovanni Daniel , Giovambattista Andrés , Gaillard Rolf C. , Spinedi Eduardo
Published: January 2009

Background/Aim: We have reported that neonatal treatment with monosodium L-glutamate (MSG), which causes damage to the arcuate nucleus, leads to severe hyperleptinemia and reduced adrenal leptin receptor (ob-Rb) expression in adulthood. As a result, rats given MSG neonatally display corticoadrenal leptin-resistance, a defect that is overridden by normalization of corticoadrenal hyperfunction. The aim of the present study was to determine whether negative energy conditions could correct corticoadrenal cell dysfunction in rats given MSG neonatally. Methods: Normal (CTR) and MSG-treated female rats were subjected to food removal for 1–5 days, or prolonged (24–61 days) food restriction (FR). Plasma levels of several biomarkers and in vitro corticoadrenal function were evaluated following starvation or FR. Results: Fasting for 1–5 days reduced plasma leptin levels in CTR and MSG rats, compared to levels in the respective groups fed ad libitum(p < 0.05), but adrenal leptin-resistance was unchanged. With prolonged FR, isolated adrenal cells from MSG rats became sensitive to leptin, which lowered ACTH-induced glucocorticoid release. This restoration of leptin response was associated with normalization of adrenal ob-Rb gene expression. Conclusion: Dietary restriction in some leptin-resistant obese phenotypes may normalize adrenocortical function.
From Here to JUPITER
Authors: Spatz Erica S. , Canavan Maureen E. , Desai Mayur M.
Published: January 2009

Background—

Guidelines for statin use currently focus on patients with elevated low-density lipoprotein levels. Recent findings from the Justification for the Use of Statins in Primary Prevention: An Intervention Trial Evaluating Rosuvastatin (JUPITER), however, indicate that statin therapy to reduce cardiovascular risk is also effective among older persons with at-goal low-density lipoprotein but elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels. We estimate the size of and describe this new population for whom statin therapy may now be indicated based on JUPITER’s findings.

Methods and Results—

Using data from the 1999 to 2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, we estimate that 57.9% of older adults (men ≥50 years and women ≥60 years), or 33 547 000 (95% CI, 32 217 000 to 34 877 000) Americans, are currently taking a statin (24.4%) or indicated for statin therapy (33.5%). In addition, we estimate that 19.2%, or 11 144 000 (95% CI, 10 053 000 to 12 235 000), may become newly eligible for statin therapy. This includes 8 071 000 (13.9%; 95% CI, 7 173 000 to 8 969 000) with high-sensitivity C-reactive protein ≥2 mg/L and low-density lipoprotein <130 mg/dL (ie, those meeting “strict” JUPITER criteria) and an additional 3 073 000 (5.3%; 95% CI, 2 404 000 to 3 743 000) with high-sensitivity C-reactive protein ≥2 mg/L and low-density lipoprotein of 130 to 160 mg/dL for whom JUPITER’s findings might reasonably be extended. Thus, ≈80% of older persons may now have an indication for statin therapy. Compared with those who would continue to have no indication for statin therapy, the JUPITER group was more likely to be female, to be older, and to have obesity, hypertension, and the metabolic syndrome.

Conclusions—

JUPITER’s findings have the potential to impact treatment recommendations for ≈20% of middle-aged to elderly adults, thus increasing the proportion of this segment of the population with an indication for statin therapy to nearly 80%.
Low-Level Jets, Orographic Effects, and Extreme Events in Nares Strait: A Model-Based Mesoscale Climatology
Authors: Samelson R. M. , Barbour P. L.
Published: January 2009

A mesoscale atmospheric model, nested in operational global numerical weather prediction fields, is used to estimate low-level winds and surface wind stress through Nares Strait, between Ellesmere Island and Greenland, during 2 yr from August 2003 to July 2005. During most of the year, the model low-level winds are dominated by intense, southward along-strait flow, with monthly-mean southward 10-m winds reaching 10 m s−1 in winter. Summertime flow is weak and distributions of hourly along-strait winds during the 2-yr period are strongly bimodal. The strong southward low-level winds are associated with ageostrophic, orographically channeled flow down the pressure gradient from the Lincoln Sea to Baffin Bay and are highly correlated with the pressure difference along Nares Strait. The 2-yr means and leading EOFs of monthly-mean 10-m winds and wind stress place the strongest winds and stress in the southern parts of Smith Sound and of Kennedy Channel, at the openings to Baffin Bay and Kane Basin, at known sites of polynya formation, including the North Water polynya in Smith Sound, suggesting that the locally intensified winds may cause these persistent polynyas. An intense wind event observed in Nares Strait by a field camp, with surface winds exceeding 30 m s−1, generally follows the typical pattern of these low-level flows. Based on the model correlation of winds and pressure difference, a 51-yr time series of estimated winds in Nares Strait is reconstructed from historical surface pressure measurements at Thule, Greenland, and Alert, Canada. The pressure difference and reconstructed wind time series are correlated with the Arctic Oscillation at annual and longer periods, but not on monthly periods.
The Porous Prison
Authors: Baumer Eric P. , O'Donnell Ian , Hughes Nicola
Published: January 2009

A follow-up study of 19,955 releases from Irish prisons shows interesting variation in rates of recidivism. Prisoners who, during their sentences, were occasionally allowed to venture outside for vocational or family-related purposes were significantly less likely to be reimprisoned. This held true up to 4 years after their eventual release and is a clear empirical demonstration of the benefits, other than humanitarian, of maintaining prisoners' social capital.
The Effect of Online Information Search on Image Development
Authors: Li Xiang , Pan Bing , Zhang Lixuan , Smith Wayne W.
Published: January 2009

This study explores the potential effects of online information search on tourists' destination image development. Specifically, the terms baseline image and enhanced image are proposed to distinguish the different stages of image development in tourists' minds before and after active online information search. A mixed-methods study, which asked college students to develop a one-week travel plan in China via online search, was designed. Results show that participants' overall image and affective image about China experienced significant and positive changes after online search, while cognitive image basically remained the same. Nevertheless, when asked to describe their image changes, most participants reported changes regarding their cognitive beliefs about China. Furthermore, the qualitative data evidenced the interaction between participants' online information search process and image development.
Competition in the Best of Cities
Authors: Skultety Steven C.
Published: January 2009

By examining his account of individual virtues, making inferences from his analyses of flawed cities, and teasing out the tacit assumptions behind claims about the nature of political activity, I argue that Aristotle thinks of competition as being a political ideal rather than as an inevitable corruption of civic life. Virtuous citizens compete for civic honor through traditional “competitive outlays” and contend against one another for prestigious offices in the city. Moreover, I argue that the very structure of political deliberation is competitive. It is through a “vis-à-vis” competition among proposals that a winning policy is adopted, and the speakers who offer these proposals are themselves involved in a competition for political influence.
Publius and Political Imagination
Authors: Frank Jason
Published: January 2009

The Federalist is commonly read as an exemplar of political realism. However, alongside Publius' arguments against the enthusiastic imagination— its tendency to inflame the passions, betray the intellect, and subvert political authority—are formative appeals to the imagination's role in reconstituting the public authority shaken during the postrevolutionary years. This essay explores three central aspects of Publius' restorative appeal to the imagination: the appeal to the public veneration required for sustaining political authority across time; the strategies for shifting citizen loyalty from the state and local level to that of a newly energized federal government; and the rhetorical elicitation of the public's imagination in aestheticized portrayals of Providential nationality. These aspects of Publius' argument make up the core of The Federalist's aesthetics of (self) rule. In each instance, Publius invokes the imagination as a heteronomic support to navigate familiar dilemmas of democratic self-authorization.
Stereotype Threat Paradigm in Search of a Phenomenon: A Comment on Kellow and Jones’s (2008) Study
Authors: Whaley Arthur L.
Published: January 2009

In a recent study, Kellow and Jones apply the stereotype threat paradigm to a sample of African American students attending an urban high school. The purpose of this commentary is to provide a conceptual and methodological critique of Kellow and Jones’s study. Implications for the role of Black psychologists in evaluating research on African American populations are discussed.
LPV gain-scheduling controller design for a non-linear quarter-vehicle active suspension system
Authors: Onat C. , Kucukdemiral I.B. , Sivrioglu S. , Yuksek I. , Cansever G.
Published: January 2009

There always exists a conflict between ride comfort and suspension deflection performances during the vibration control of suspension systems. Active suspension control systems, which are designed by linear methods, can only serve as a trade-off between these conflicting performance criteria. Both performance objectives can only be accomplished at the same time by using a nonlinear controller. This paper addresses the non-linear induced L2 control of an active suspension system, which contains non-linear spring and damper elements. The design method is based on the linear parameter varying (LPV) model of the system. The proposed method utilizes the bilinear damping characteristic, stiffening spring characteristic when the suspension deflection approaches the structural limits, mass variations and parameter-dependent weighting filters. Simulation studies both in time and frequency domain demonstrate that the active suspension system controlled by the proposed method always guarantees an agreement between acceleration (comfort) and suspension deflection magnitudes together with a high ride performance.
Linear time-varying sliding surface design based on co-ordinate transformation for high-order systems
Authors: Tokat S. , Eksin I. , Guzelkaya M.
Published: January 2009

In this study, a sliding mode controller with a linear time-varying sliding surface is proposed for high-order systems by generalizing the co-ordinate transformed sliding surface design algorithm devised by the authors for second-order systems. The sliding mode control law is formulated for the sliding surface that has been defined by using a time-varying function. The equivalent control term of the proposed controller is expressed as a sum of the equivalent control term of the conventional sliding mode controller and an additive signal, which is a linear function of system tracking error vector and a time-dependent monotonous function. Simulations are performed on a third-order non-linear model with external disturbances and parameter variations. The performance of the sliding mode controller with the proposed design methodology is compared both with a conventional sliding mode controller and with another sliding mode controller that also uses an additive term in the control law to minimize the reaching time. The simulation results have shown that the proposed method has improved the robustness and the transient response with respect to related sliding mode controllers.
Seven tuning schemes for an ADALINE model to predict floor pressures in a subsonic cavity flow
Authors: Efe Mehmet Önder , Debiasi Marco , Peng Yan  , Özbay Hitay , Samimy Mohammad
Published: January 2009

This paper presents a simple yet effective one-step-ahead predictor based on an adaptive linear element (ADALINE). Several tuning schemes are studied to see whether the obtained model is consistent. The process under investigation is a subsonic cavity flow system. The experimental data obtained from the system is post-processed to obtain a useful predictor. The contribution of the paper is to demonstrate that despite the spectral richness of the observed data, a simple model with various tuning schemes can help to a satisfactory extent. Seven algorithms are studied, including the least mean squares (LMS), recursive least squares (RLS), modified Kaczmarz's algorithm (MK), stochastic approximation algorithm (SA), gradient descent (GD), Levenberg—Marquardt optimization technique (LM) and sliding mode-based tuning (SM). The model and its properties are discussed comparatively.
The Effect of Anticipated Affect on Persistence and Performance
Authors: Greitemeyer Tobias
Published: January 2009

The aim of the present research was to examine the interplay between predictions of the affective impact of future events and goal-relevant behavior. More concretely, three studies tested the hypothesis that affective forecasts influence persistent goal behavior and achievement. In Studies 1 and 2, participants who predicted that success would make them happier and failure would make them feel worse were more persistent and correctly solved more tasks of an intelligence test. However, as Study 3 revealed, extreme affective forecasts also led to persistent efforts to find solutions for unsolvable tasks and, consequently, decreased overall performance. In all studies, participants anticipated more intense emotional reactions than they actually experienced (impact bias).
First Thought, Best Thought: Positive Mood Maintains and Negative Mood Degrades Implicit-Explicit Attitude Correspondence
Authors: Huntsinger Jeffrey R. , Smith Colin Tucker
Published: January 2009

Two studies investigate the effect of mood on the relationship between implicit and explicit attitudes toward African Americans (Experiment 1) and implicit and explicit academic attitudes (Experiment 2). Because explicit and implicit attitudes are more related when people validate their automatic attitudes as true (the associative-propositional evaluation model) and because people tend to validate their immediate reactions when they are in positive rather than negative moods (the affect-as-information model), the authors predicted a stronger implicit-explicit attitude correspondence among positive versus negative mood participants. As predicted, in both studies, participants exhibited a significant correspondence between implicit and explicit attitudes when in positive moods but not when in negative moods.
Regret for Errors of Commission and Omission in the Distant Term Versus Near Term: The Role of Level of Abstraction
Authors: Leach Frederick R. , Plaks Jason E.
Published: January 2009

Why are errors of omission regretted more than errors of commission in the distant past, whereas the reverse is true for the near past? The authors hypothesized that abstract versus concrete representation is a significant contributor to this effect. In Study 1, the authors assessed participants' regret for errors of commission versus omission occurring in the distant versus near past while measuring the level of abstraction at which participants spontaneously described the dilemma. As predicted, participants' greater regret for errors of omission (vs. commission) in the distant term (vs. near term) was mediated by level of abstraction. In Study 2, temporal distance, level of abstraction, and error type were all independently manipulated. As expected, participants reported more regret for an error of omission in the distant past when it was represented abstractly versus concretely. The authors discuss the role of mental abstraction in the phenomenology of binary decisions and error-related regret.
Public Support for Regional Integration in Northeast Asia: An Empirical Test of Affective and Utilitarian Models
Authors: Jhee Byong-Kuen
Published: January 2009

Using data from the Global View 2004 survey, this research examines the extent to which the idea of creating a regional community in Northeast Asia is supported by Korean citizens, and investigates the determinants of public support for this novel idea. It finds that both widely adopted affective and utilitarian models of public support for regional integration have critical limitations in accounting for the proposed regional integration in Northeast Asia. It shows that security-related utilitarian factors have the greatest explanatory power. Finally, it is suggested that enhancing cooperation with China and Japan in unraveling security problems is necessary to initiate regional integration, especially in Northeast Asia.
Competing Visions of Democracy and Development in the Era of Neoliberalism in Mexico and Chile
Authors: Teichman Judith A.
Published: January 2009

This article takes as its starting point the current scholarly concern with democratic quality, poverty, and inequality. It notes the tendency of political leaderships at the federal level in Mexico and Chile to exclude political pressures that contravene their neoliberal imperatives. It develops this argument with specific reference to the contestation over conditional cash transfer programs. Research reveals the existence of two competing visions of democracy and development at the root of this conflict. The neoliberal perspective is supported by political-technocratic leaders who developed these programs, while the community development perspective is found among their civil society critics. The community development perspective challenges the key tenets of the neoliberal viewpoint, making its exclusion from policy development and monitoring understandable. However, this exclusion may give rise to increased criticism of the responsiveness of democratic institutions and to less than efficacious policy outcomes.
Intranasal sufentanil for cancer-associated breakthrough pain
Authors: Good P , Jackson K , Brumley D , Ashby M
Published: January 2009

The objective of this study was to demonstrate the efficacy, safety and patient acceptability of the use of intranasal sufentanil for cancer-associated breakthrough pain. This was a prospective, open label, observational study of patients in three inpatient palliative care units in Australia. Patients on opioids with cancer-associated breakthrough pain and clinical evidence of opioid responsiveness to their breakthrough pain were given intranasal (IN) Sufentanil via a GO Medical™ patient controlled IN analgesia device. The main outcome measures were pain scores, need to revert to previous breakthrough opioid after 30 min, number of patients who chose to continue using IN sufentanil, and adverse effects. There were 64 episodes of use of IN sufentanil for breakthrough pain in 30 patients. There was a significant reduction in pain scores at 15 ( P < 0.0001) and 30 min ( P < 0.0001). In only 4/64 (6%) episodes of breakthrough pain did the participants choose to revert to their prestudy breakthrough medication. Twenty-three patients (77%) rated IN sufentanil as better than their prestudy breakthrough medication. The incidence of adverse effects was low and most were mild. Our study showed that IN sufentanil can provide relatively rapid onset, intense but relatively short lasting analgesia and in the palliative care setting it is an effective, practical, and safe option for breakthrough pain.
Early Adolescent Attachment to Parents, Emotional Problems, and Teacher-Academic Worries About the Middle School Transition
Authors: Duchesne Stéphane , Ratelle Catherine F. , Poitras Sarah-Caroline , Drouin Evelyne
Published: January 2009

This study examines how attachment to mother and father predicts worries about academic demands and relationships with teachers generated by the transition from elementary to middle school through its contribution to adolescents’ emotional problems (depression and anxiety). The study sample includes 626 young adolescents (289 boys and 337 girls) in sixth grade who completed the Security Scale to assess security of attachment to their mothers and fathers. The results of analyses based on structural equation modeling showed that attachment to mother predicts adolescents’ teacher-academic worries about the middle school transition through anxiety symptoms. These results are discussed in light of the literature on attachment theory, emotional problems during adolescence, and the context of the middle school transition.
Self-Silencing and Age as Risk Factors for Sexually Acquired HIV in Midlife and Older Women
Authors: Jacobs Robin J. , Thomlison Barbara
Published: January 2009

Objectives: This study explores the contribution of psychosocial factors on sex behaviors of midlife and older women. Methods: A community-based sample of ethnically diverse women ( N = 572) between the ages of 50 and 93 completed standardized measures of self-silencing, self-esteem, sensation-seeking behavior, HIV-related stigma behavior, sexual assertiveness, and safer sex behaviors. Results : Results from the regression analysis indicated the model significantly predicted safer sex behaviors ( p < .001), with self-silencing (β = —.115, p < .05) and age (β = .173, p < .001) as significant predictors. Bivariate correlation analysis indicated an inverse correlation between HIV stigma ( p < .05) and safer sex behaviors. Discussion: Implications for further study and practice are discussed to include considerations for development of age- and gender-appropriate prevention interventions assisting women with interpersonal processes combined with skills for active involvement in addressing high-risk sex behaviors.
Network Bridging Potential in Later Life
Authors: Cornwell Benjamin
Published: January 2009

Objectives: Much work in social gerontology has examined older adults' social connectedness, but we know little about the extent to which older adults occupy positions of power and independence in their networks. The author uses health and life-course frameworks to understand older adults' prospects of occupying bridging positions between otherwise unconnected individuals. Methods: Egocentric social network data were collected from a nationally representative sample of 3,005 older adults between the ages of 57 and 85 in 2005-2006. A series of multivariate regression analyses was used to examine how health and life-course factors relate to bridging. Results: Age is not significantly associated with bridging. However, retirees and people with poor health are less likely to have bridging potential. At the same time, widows are more likely to serve as bridges. Discussion: The discusses the need for more dialogue between social network researchers and social gerontologists to help explain older adults' bridging prospects.
Assisted Living Pilot Program
Authors: Guihan Marylou , Thomas Mark D. , Mambourg Floss J. , Li Wang  , Chapko Michael K. , Hedrick Susan C.
Published: January 2009

Objectives: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) funded assisted living (AL), adult family home (AFH), and residential care for the first time in the Assisted Living Pilot Program (ALPP). This article describes the background and methods of the ALPP evaluation and the characteristics and experiences of the facilities. Method: Facility data were collected from the contracting/inspection process and a survey of ALPP facilities and those contacted but not participating in ALPP. Results: Data on 131 participating facilities are presented: 41 AFHs, 47 assisted living facilities (ALFs), and 43 residential care facilities (RCFs). The average facility had 33 beds (about one quarter Medicaid beds), for-profit ownership, and private rooms for ALPP residents, and about half had private baths. About two thirds of ALPP AFH providers spoke a primary language other than English. Discussion: Findings indicate that a wide range of community facilities were willing to provide care to residents with heterogeneous needs on VA funding.
Cultural Competence in Qualitative Interview Methods with Asian Immigrants
Authors: Suh Eunyoung E. , Kagan Sarah , Strumpf Neville
Published: January 2009

The growth in Asian immigration and a diversity of Asian populations living in Western English-speaking societies pose many opportunities for qualitative research. Cultural competence is essential to credible qualitative nursing research employing interview data. The purpose of this article is to describe culturally competent qualitative research with Asian immigrants, especially in the design, interview phases, and analysis. Strategies to achieve cultural competence are synthesized within the model of cultural competence, integrating the literature review and data exemplars. Strategies for successful conduct of qualitative research in Asian immigrant populations, including preparation of the research team, techniques for the conduct of research interviews with Asian immigrants, and contextual meanings and timing of translation are offered. The article concludes with a summary of implications for future research.
Gender and the Perception of Knowledge in Political Discussion
Authors: Morehouse Mendez Jeanette , Osborn Tracy
Published: January 2009

Differences in knowledge about politics between men and women have the potential to affect political discussion. We examine differences in the perception of political knowledge between men and women and the effects these differences have on how often men and women talk about politics. We find both men and women perceive women to be less knowledgeable about politics and men to be more knowledgeable, regardless of the actual level of knowledge each discussion partner holds. This perceptual knowledge gap could have ramifications for discussion as political participation, since people turn to those they perceive to be experts to gather political information.
Integrating Social Class Into Vocational Psychology
Authors: Diemer Matthew A. , Rasheed Ali Saba
Published: January 2009

Although social class plays a salient and significant role in career development and occupational attainment, social class is underrepresented in vocational psychology theory, scholarship, and practice. Vocational psychologists are in a unique position to meet the career development needs of persons from all social classes by integrating a fuller understanding of social class into their scholarship and practice. This article provides an interdisciplinary review of conceptualization and operationalization of social class, the consideration of social class by theories of career development, the impact of social class upon career development processes, and implications of social class for career counseling and assessment. Through helping vocational psychologists more deeply understand social class and its interconnections to career development and occupational attainment, this article intends to create a springboard for the further integration of social class into vocational psychology scholarship and practice.
MR Molecular Imaging of Thrombus: Development and Application of a Gd-based Novel Contrast Agent Targeting to P-selectin
Authors: Wang Xue-Feng , Jin Pei-Pei , Tong Zhou  , Zhao Ya-Peng , Ding Qiu-Lan , Wang Deng-Bin , Zhao Guang-Ming , Jing-Dai  , Wang Hong-Li , Ge Hai-Liang
Published: January 2009

Molecular imaging of thrombus formation at initial stage requires a robust thrombus-specific contrast agent with high sensitivity. In this study, we report a novel P-selectin-targeted paramagnetic molecular imaging agent and the agent’s potential to sensitively detect occult microthrombi on the intimal surface of endothelium. Platelet clots and blood clots targeted in vitro with paramagnetic nanoparticles presented a highly detectable, homogeneous T1-weighted contrast enhancement that was improved with increasing gadolinium level. In vivo contrast enhancement under part of circulation conditions was assessed in dogs. The micro-thrombi around the femoral vein of dog demonstrated higher signal intensities than the control clots and the adjacent muscle. Histology was performed on regions likely to contain thrombus as indicated by MRI. These results suggest that molecular imaging of P-selectin-targeted paramagnetic nanoparticles can provide sensitive detection and localization of P-selectin and may allow for early, direct identification of microthrombi, leading to early diagnosis.
Effects of Sex Offender Registration Policies on Juvenile Justice Decision Making
Authors: Letourneau Elizabeth J. , Bandyopadhyay Dipankar , Sinha Debajyoti , Armstrong Kevin
Published: January 2009

This study examines effects of sex offender registration policies on juvenile judicial decision making. Prosecutor decisions and disposition outcomes are examined across a 15-year period. Results indicate that prosecutors are significantly less likely to move forward on both serious sexual and assault offense charges after registration implementation, with the estimated effect nearly twice as large for sexual offenses. There also is increased likelihood of guilty findings for sexual and assault offenses over time. As new policies legislate harsher consequences for juvenile offenses, prosecutors become less likely to move forward on sexual and assault charges. This effect is especially strong for juvenile sexual offenders, who face reforms targeting both violent and sexual crimes. Results suggest that state and national policies requiring long-term public registration of juveniles might unintentionally decrease the likelihood of prosecution. If replicated, the results indicate a need to reform registration policies as applied to juveniles.
Commonality and the Complexity of “We”: Social Attitudes and Social Change
Authors: Dovidio John F. , Gaertner Samuel L. , Saguy Tamar
Published: January 2009

The present article explores the complex role of collective identities in the development of intergroup biases and disparities, in interventions to improve orientations toward members of other groups, and in inhibiting or facilitating social action. The article revolves around the common ingroup identity model, examining general empirical support but also acknowledging potential limitations and emphasizing new insights and extensions. It proposes that the motivations of majority group members to preserve a system that advantages them and the motivations of minority group members to enhance their status have direct implications for preferred group representations and consequent intergroup relations. In particular, the effects of majority group members' preferences for a common, one-group identity and minority group members' preference for a dual identity (in which differences are acknowledged within the context of a superordinate identity) are considered in terms of intergroup attitudes, recognition of unfair disparities, and support for social action.
Prevalence of hypoechoic carotid plaques in coronary artery disease: relationship with coexistent peripheral arterial disease and leukocyte number
Authors: Brevetti Gregorio , Sirico Giusy , Giugliano Giuseppe , Lanero Simona , De Maio Julieta Isabel , Luciano Rossella , Laurenzano Eugenio , Chiariello Massimo
Published: January 2009

Abstract

In coronary artery disease (CAD), a concomitant peripheral arterial disease (PAD) entails a more severe coronary atherosclerosis. We hypothesized that the severity of carotid artery disease is greater in CAD+PAD than in CAD alone. In 90 CAD and 79 CAD+PAD patients, carotid plaque echolucency was measured by gray-scale median (GSM), and the degree of carotid stenosis by routine Doppler criteria. Plaques were absent in 20 (22.2%) CAD and 8 (10.1%) CAD+PAD patients ( p = 0.035), while the prevalence of carotid stenosis ≥ 50% was 16.7% and 25.3%, respectively ( p = 0.166). The GSM score was 45.1 [21.7–67.7] in CAD+PAD vs 60.1 [44.9–83.1] in CAD alone ( p < 0.001). Consistently, hypoechoic plaques (GSM < 25th percentile) were more common in CAD+PAD than in CAD patients (38.0% vs 11.4%, p < 0.001). On multivariate analysis, CAD+PAD was the only variable significantly associated with hypoechoic plaques (OR = 4.16, 95% CI 1.68–10.28). However, when the leukocyte count was added to the model, it showed the strongest association with hypoechoic plaques (OR = 6.70, 95% CI 2.13–21.10). In conclusion, compared with CAD alone patients, those with concomitant PAD showed a greater prevalence of plaques with characteristics of instability. Thus, our data suggest that in CAD+PAD, evaluation of carotid plaque echogenicity could contribute to improve clinical decision-making and differentiate treatments for individual patients.
Multidetector computed tomographic angiography of aberrant subclavian arteries
Authors: Türkvatan Aysel , Büyükbayraktar Fatma Gül , Ölçer Tülay , Cumhur Turhan
Published: January 2009

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the utility of 16-slice multidetector computed tomographic (MDCT) angiography for identifying anatomic features of aberrant subclavian arteries. Seventeen patients with aberrant subclavian arteries were assessed by MDCT angiography. The aortic arch position, the presence of a Kommerell’s diverticulum, aneurysm, vascular compression of trachea and oesophagus and associated cardiovascular abnormalities were evaluated. MDCT findings were confirmed by surgery in eight patients but in the other nine patients no further evaluation or management was warranted as the aberrant subclavian artery had no significant clinical consequence. Eleven patients had an aberrant right subclavian artery arising from the left aortic arch and six patients had an aberrant left subclavian artery arising from the right aortic arch. Kommerell’s diverticulum was identified in three patients with an aberrant right subclavian artery and in five patients with an aberrant left subclavian artery. In two patients it was aneurysmal. Oesophageal compression was detected in eight patients, and tracheal compression was identified in only one paediatric patient. An aberrant subclavian artery was associated with complex congenital heart disease in one patient, intracardiac defects in two patients, aortic coarctation in two patients, patent ductus arteriosus in two patients and an aberrant vertebral artery in one patient. In conclusion, MDCT angiography is superior to digital subtraction angiography for the assessment of aberrant subclavian arteries since digital subtraction angiography has only a poor ability to visualize adjacent structures completely and is invasive in nature. MDCT angiography or magnetic resonance angiography are the current standard in the initial evaluation of thoracic vascular anomalies.
Lipid goal achievement and trends in lipid-lowering therapy in veterans undergoing carotid endarterectomy
Authors: Fitzgerald Tamara N , Popp Cathy , Dardik Alan , Federman Daniel G
Published: January 2009

Abstract

Secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease after carotid endarterectomy should include management of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, but increased LDL levels are undertreated in these patients. We examined trends in statin use and LDL goal achievement in veterans undergoing carotid endarterectomy (CEA), a medically high-risk group with high rates of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The records of all CEA performed between 1995 and 2005 in the Connecticut Veterans’ Affairs (VA) hospital were reviewed. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to analyze long-term outcomes. ANOVA was used for comparisons between groups. A total of 309 CEA procedures were performed in 298 patients. The mean follow-up was 4.1 years. Statin use increased over time (12% in 1995, 84% in 2005) and mean LDL levels decreased (105 mg/dl in 1997, 90 mg/dl in 2007). The number of patients achieving LDL goals of 100 mg/dl or 70 mg/dl increased. Mean HDL levels decreased (53 mg/dl in 1997 and 38 mg/dl in 2007). Patients with three or more comorbid medical conditions were more likely to achieve LDL goals. At 12 years, freedom from stroke was 91%, freedom from myocardial infarction was 46% and survival was 12%. In conclusion, over the last decade, among patients who have undergone CEA, statin use has increased and LDL levels have improved.
Population-wide changes in reported lifestyle are associated with redistribution of adipose tissue
Authors: Krachler Benno , Eliasson Mats , Stenlund Hans , Johansson Ingegerd , Hallmans Goran , Lindahl Bernt
Published: January 2009

Aims: The Northern Sweden MONICA project 1986—2004 demonstrated a marked increase in average body mass, an unchanged prevalence of diabetes, and a decrease in myocardial infarctions and lately also in stroke. This study estimates the relative importance of time-trends in lifestyle on average waist and hip circumference on a population level. Methods: From a series of independent cross-sectional surveys, a study population of 2,831 men and 2,976 women was formed. Associations between lifestyle factors and waist and hip circumference were estimated. Partial regression coefficients for every level of the lifestyle factors were multiplied by the differences in the proportion of the population reporting the corresponding levels of the respective lifestyle factors in 1986 and 2004. The sum of the product terms for each item represents the respective estimated impact of change in waist and hip circumference. Results: Lifestyle trends associated with changes in hip circumference were (women/men): higher education level (+4.0 mm/+2.4 mm), fewer smokers (+0.4 mm/+0.9 mm), a slight increase in alcohol consumption (+0.4 mm/+0.3 mm), and more saturated fat from meat in women (-0.9 mm) and more fibre from grains in men (+0.6 mm). Average waist circumference was influenced by increased levels of physical activity (-2.2 mm/-4.6 mm), fewer female smokers (-0.3 mm), and a higher intake of saturated fatty acids from meat among men (+1.8 mm). Conclusions: We identified physical activity and the intake of meat and whole-grain products as prime candidates for lifestyle interventions in northern Sweden.
Detection of undiagnosed diabetes using UK general practice data
Authors: Holt Tim A
Published: January 2009

An estimated 750,000 people in the UK have diabetes that is either undiagnosed or unrecorded on diabetes registers. Opportunities are missed to prevent or delay complications and reduce cardiovascular risk. This `missing population' problem has been addressed at various levels: raising awareness among the public; targeted case finding in at-risk groups; and lowering the threshold for investigation of suggestive symptoms among clinicians. Cardiovascular risk assessments are recommended in the UK for the over 40-year-old population and include blood glucose measurements. To further support these measures, this article discusses a recently reported technique for identifying possible cases of undiagnosed diabetes using simple searches on primary care databases, and its implications for practice and future research. Br J Diabetes Vasc Dis 2008; 8: 291—294
Achieving blood pressure control in patients with type 2 diabetes and diabetic renal disease by a nurse-led protocol based clinic
Authors: Mugarza Julie A , Wilding John P , Woodward Ann , Hayden Katharine , Gill Geoffrey V
Published: January 2009

Evidence-based management of type 2 diabetic renal disease requires use of angiotensin - converting enzyme inhibitor (ACE inhibitor) inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), with strict blood pressure control which is difficult to achieve in standard doctor-led diabetic clinics and we have therefore developed a nurse-led clinic using a therapeutic algorithm. ACE inhibitor or ARB treatment was maximised, and antihypertensive drugs titrated or added to optimise blood pressure control. Patients were seen monthly until target blood pressure was met, and then discharged for review of blood pressure control 12 months later. Of 71 patients completing the programme, 52 (72%) had microalbuminuria, and 19 (28%) nephropathy. ACE inhibitor or ARB usage increased from 66 to 91% at review (p=0.0004). Systolic blood pressure fell from152±21 to 131±18mmHg (p< 0.0001) and diastolic blood pressure from 76±13 to 68±10mmHg (p<0.0001). Microalbuminuria rates fell but estimated glomerular filtration rates rose. Structured nurse-led clinics are useful in the optimisation of treatment for type 2 diabetic patients with renal disease. Br J Diabetes Vasc Dis, 2008, 8: 279—284
Perspectives and challenges to undertake diabetes prevention in clinical practice
Authors: Schwarz Peter E H , Schwarz J. , Bergmann Antje , Hühmer Ulrich , Bornstein Stefan R
Published: January 2009

The marked increase in newly diagnosed cases of type 2 diabetes is a major public health concern within the European Union. However, it has been shown that prevention programmes can significantly reduce the risk of developing diabetes. The challenge is to implement proven intervention methods effectively into clinical reality. To achieve this, action is needed in the field of policy development. Targeted intervention programmes, especially to address the needs of people at increased diabetes risk are required for clinical and community-based healthcare professionals and for the general population. Herein we try to address some of the questions arising during the implementation of a prevention management concept into clinical practice. Br J Diabetes Vasc Dis 2008; 8: 295—298
Review: The problem of diabetic nephropathy and practical prevention of its progression
Authors: Wright Julian , Vardhan Anand
Published: January 2009

In common with all countries in the developed world, the United Kingdom is experiencing a dramatic increase in the incidence of diabetes and chronic kidney disease. The most common cause of renal impairment is diabetes. The evolution of diabetic nephropathy is usually predictable with evidence-based interventions available at each stage. This review examines this evidence and gives practical advice on the management of patients with diabetic nephropathy. Br J Diabetes Vasc Dis, 2008; 8: 272—277
Early identification and management of chronic kidney disease in adults in primary and secondary care: a commentary on NICE Guideline No 73, Sept 2008
Authors: Andrews Peter A
Published: January 2009

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is common, but more than 30% of people with CKD are referred late, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. An updated classification of CKD, using estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) allows the severity of CKD to be determined and when it is appropriate to refer to a consultant nephrologist. New approaches to the measurement of protein excretion are stressed with particular reference to using urine albumin:creatinine ratio or urine protein:creatinine ratio. Annual measurement of serum creatinine in at-risk patients is clearly outlined as are the indications for renal ultrasound examination. Two algorithms for the management of newly detected abnormal eGFR and for the management of CKD, Stages 3—5, are not in the NICE Guideline No 73 document but reflect the author's clinical experience of working in this area, with the aim of simplifying these two important topics. The safe use of angiotensin-converting-enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin blocking agents in the everyday clinical work place is outlined.

The management of CKD due to diabetic nephropathy and hypertension is an important part of diabetes management and this review of NICE Guideline No 73 on the early identification and management of CKD in adults in both primary and secondary care settings will further enable the better care of type 1 and type 2 diabetic subjects with renal impairment. Br J Diabetes Vasc Dis 2008; 8: 257—262
A road map for European diabetes research: DIAMAP
Authors: Halban Philippe A ,   DIAMAP Group
Published: January 2009

A Road Map for Diabetes Research in Europe (DIAMAP) is a European Commission initiative to develop a strategic plan for future diabetes research in Europe. The DIAMAP project aims to identify diabetes research priorities for Europe, and will propose practical ways to integrate and co-ordinate European research expertise to focus research for the benefit of the patient. Br J Diabetes Vasc Dis;8: 299—300
Effect of Manufacturing Parameters on the Tensile Properties and Yarn Damage of Glass Fiber Warp-knitted Net Preforms
Authors: Liu Xiao-Ming , Jiang Jin-Hua , Chen Nan-Liang , Feng Xun-Wei
Published: January 2009

Knitted fabric reinforcements gain interest in the composite industry for their excellent drapability, impact resistance, and net-shape manufacturability. Much research on the mechanical properties of knitted fabric reinforced thermoset and thermoplastic composites are available in the literature. However, to reduce the complexity in analysis and calculation, the loop architectures studied in these researches, either weft-knit or warp-knit, were very simple and lack of diversity. Additionally, limited attention has been given to the glass yarn damage during knitting, which have been proved to have a significant effect on the performance of the final composites. In this article, six-bar warp-knitted net preforms fabricated of glass plied yarns were studied. Eleven kinds of net preforms with different lapping movements, different take-up values, and different run-in ratios were fabricated and their mechanical performances as well as yarn damage during knitting were evaluated. The results showed that yarn damage and preform performance are highly related with the manufacture parameters from which optimum machine settings for each kind of preform could be delivered.
Processing and Characterization of Flame Retardant Cotton Blend Nonwovens for Soft Furnishings to Meet Federal Flammability Standards
Authors: Kamath M.G. , Bhat G.S. , Parikh D.V. , Condon B.D.
Published: January 2009

Effective from July 1, 2007 it is mandatory that all mattress sets meet the federal flammability standard CFR 1633. It is necessary to impart flame resistance that would provide at least 30 min for occupants to escape fire. Changes in the flammability laws are expected on other soft furnishings of sleep products like comforters and pillows. Generally these products are often the first to be engulfed by the fire. Currently many inherently flame retardant (FR) fibers and chemicals are available in the market. We have developed barrier fabrics with FR properties by incorporating these fibers in blends with cotton that either meet or exceed the standard. Results from this ongoing research are discussed in this article.
Measurement of Return Leaks in Residential Buildings in North Louisiana
Authors: Erinjeri Jinson J. , Witriol Norman M. , Katz Myron
Published: January 2009

Heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) duct leaks in residential buildings can occur both at the supply side and the return side of the duct system. The objective of this study is to develop a methodology to measure return duct leakage at the actual HVAC system operating pressure. Two techniques are developed and field studies are performed to measure return leakage in residential homes. The weighted-average return leakage in residential homes in North Louisiana is determined to be 58L/s (116 ft3/min) and the weighted-average equivalent orifice leakage area is determined to be 0.018 m2 (28.5 in.2). The weighted flow exponent of return leakage is determined to be 0.55.