bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Volumetric, Viscometric and Excess Properties of Binary Mixtures of 1-Iodobutane with Benzene, Toluene, o-Xylene, m-Xylene, p-Xylene, and Mesitylene at Temperatures from 303.15 to 313.15 K
Authors: Sharma Sangita , Thakkar Khushbu , Patel Paras , Makavana Madhuresh
Published: August 2013

Densities and viscosities have been determined for binary mixtures of 1-iodobutane with benzene, toluene, o-xylene, m-xylene, p-xylene, and mesitylene at 303.15, 308.15, and 313.15 K for the entire composition range at atmospheric pressure. The excess molar volumes, , deviations in viscosity, Δη, and excess Gibbs’ free energy of activation flow, Δ have been calculated from the experimental values. The experimental data were fitted to Redlich-Kister polynomial equation. The variations of these parameters with composition of the mixtures and temperature have been discussed in terms of molecular interactions occurring in these mixtures. Further, the viscosities of these binary mixtures were calculated theoretically from their corresponding pure component data by using empirical relations like Bingham, Arrhenius and Eyring, Kendall and Munroe, Hind, Katti and Chaudhari, Grunberg and Nissan, and Tamura and Kurata. Comparison of various interaction parameters has been expressed to explain the intermolecular interactions between iodobutane and selected hydrocarbons.
Estimation of Approximation with Jacobi Weights by Multivariate Baskakov Operator
Authors: Wang Jianjun , Guo Haifeng , Jing Jia
Published: August 2013

We first give the unboundedness of multivariate Baskakov operators with the normal weighted norm. By introducing new norms, using the multivariate decomposition technique and the modulus of smoothness with Jacobi weight, the upper bound estimation of multivariate Baskakov operators is obtained. The obtained results not only generalize the corresponding ones for multivariate Baskakov operators without weights, but also give the approximation accuracy with the Jacobi weights approximation.
A Pooled Analysis of Alcohol Consumption and Risk of Multiple Myeloma in the International Multiple Myeloma Consortium
Authors: Andreotti Gabriella , Birmann Brenda , De Roos Anneclaire J. , Spinelli John , Cozen Wendy , Camp Nicola J. , Moysich Kirsten , Chiu Brian , Steplowski Emily , Krzystan Joseph , Boffetta Paolo , Benhaim-Luzon Véronique , Brennan Paul , de Sanjosé Silvia , Costas Laura , Costantini Adele Seniori , Miligi Lucia , Cocco Pierluigi , Becker Nikolaus , Foretová Lenka , Maynadié Marc , Nieters Alexandra , Staines Anthony , Tricot Guido , Milliken Kevin , Weisenburger Dennis , Zheng Tongzhang , Baris Dalsu , Purdue Mark P.
Published: August 2013

Background: Recent findings suggest that alcohol consumption may reduce risk of multiple myeloma.

Methods: To better understand this relationship, we conducted an analysis of six case–control studies participating in the International Multiple Myeloma Consortium (1,567 cases, 7,296 controls). Summary ORs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) relating different measures of alcohol consumption and multiple myeloma risk were computed by unconditional logistic regression with adjustment for age, race, and study center.

Results: Cases were significantly less likely than controls to report ever drinking alcohol (men: OR = 0.72; 95% CI, 0.59–0.89; women: OR = 0.81; 95% CI, 0.68–0.95). The inverse association with multiple myeloma was stronger when comparing current to never drinkers (men: OR = 0.57; 95% CI, 0.45–0.72; women: OR = 0.55; 95% CI, 0.45–0.68), but null among former drinkers. We did not observe an exposure–response relationship with increasing alcohol frequency, duration, or cumulative lifetime consumption. Additional adjustment for body mass index, education, or smoking did not affect our results; and the patterns of association were similar for each type of alcohol beverage examined.

Conclusions: Our study is, to our knowledge, the largest of its kind to date, and our findings suggest that alcohol consumption may be associated with reduced risk of multiple myeloma.

Impact: Prospective studies, especially those conducted as pooled analyses with large sample sizes, are needed to confirm our findings and further explore whether alcohol consumption provides true biologic protection against this rare, highly fatal malignancy. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(9); 1620–7. ©2013 AACR.
β-Escin Inhibits NNK-Induced Lung Adenocarcinoma and ALDH1A1 and RhoA/Rock Expression in A/J Mice and Growth of H460 Human Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Patlolla Jagan M.R. , Qian Li , Biddick Laura , Zhang Yuting , Desai Dhimant , Amin Shantu , Lightfoot Stan , Rao Chinthalapally V.
Published: August 2013

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. β-Escin, a triterpene saponin isolated from horse chestnut seeds, was tested for inhibition of lung adenoma and adenocarcinoma induced by the tobacco carcinogen 4-(methyl-nitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) in female A/J mice; and its possible mode of action was evaluated using the H460 human lung cancer cell line. At 6 weeks of age, 35 mice were fed AIN-76A–modified diet, and one week later, lung tumors were induced with a single intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of 10 μmol NNK/mouse. Three weeks after the NNK treatment, groups of mice were fed either control or experimental diets containing 500 ppm for 20 weeks (10 control, 5 β-escin) or 36 weeks (15 control, 5 β-escin) and evaluated for lung tumor via histopathologic methods. Administration of 500 ppm β-escin significantly suppressed lung tumor (adenoma + adenocarcinoma) formation by more than 40% (P < 0.0015) at 20 weeks and by 53.3% (P < 0.0001) at 37 weeks. β-Escin inhibited NNK-induced lung adenocarcinoma formation by 65% (P < 0.001) at 20 weeks and by 53% (P < 0.0001) at 37 weeks. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that lung tumors from mice exposed to β-escin showed significantly reduced aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH)1A1 and phospho-Akt (p-Akt) expression when compared with those in mice fed control diet. Aldefluor assay for ALDH revealed that among H460 lung cancer cells treated with different concentrations of β-escin (0–40 μmol/L), the subpopulation of cells with elevated ALDH activity was inhibited significantly. Our findings suggest that β-escin inhibits tobacco carcinogen–induced lung tumor formation by modulating ALDH1A1-positive cells and RhoA/Rock signaling. Cancer Prev Res; 6(10); 1140–9. ©2013 AACR.
Choroid Metastasis from Testicular Carcinoma: A Rare Entity
Authors: Singh Dig Vijay , Gupta Vishali , Singh Shrawan Kumar
Published: August 2013

The aim of this report is to contribute to the clinical understanding of choroid metastasis from testicular carcinoma. A young male patient presented with loss of vision in his left eye with ptosis and proptosis. Fundoscopy revealed bullous retinal detachment with dark hazy vitreous. The preliminary diagnosis of choroid carcinoma with vitreous involvement was made by an ophthalmologist. Later in the physical examination, there was a firm painless left testicular swelling. Testicular tumor markers were raised. Based on ultrasonography, MRI and PET-CT, a clinical diagnosis of left testicular carcinoma metastasizing to the left choroid and vitreous was made. A mixed germ cell tumor was reported on histopathological examination. After cisplatin-based chemotherapy, serum tumor markers normalized and vision improved. Exceptional choroidal and vitreous metastases with absence of other visceral and bony involvement constituted the presenting sign. Although rare, testicular carcinoma must be considered to metastasize to the eye, especially if loss of vision is the chief complaint.
Variation in Reptilian Brains and Cognition
Authors: Northcutt R. Glenn
Published: August 2013

The class Reptilia is monophyletic, if all synapsid tetrapods are excluded and birds are included. The phylogenetic position of turtles within the reptilian clade is still problematic, but recent microRNA data suggest that turtles are the sister group to lepidosaurians. Brain-body data for approximately 60 reptilian taxa indicate that the relative brain size for a given body weight varies some six-fold among reptiles, with some turtles and lizards having relatively large brains and other turtles and lizards having relatively small brains. Snakes appear to be characterized by relatively small brains, and crocodilians appear to possess the largest brains among living reptiles, with the exception of birds. Data on the relative size of major brain divisions among tetrapods are limited, but the telencephalic and cerebellar hemispheres account for much of the variation. Telencephalic hemispheres in reptiles are approximately twice as large as those in amphibians, and the relative size of the telencephalic hemispheres in monitor lizards and crocodilians approaches that in basal birds and mammals. New data on the relative volumes of telencephalic pallial divisions in tetrapods reveal that the dorsal ventricular ridge, a ventral pallial derivative, accounts for much of the increase in pallial size that characterizes reptiles. Studies of spatial and visual cognition in nonavian reptiles reveal that they learn mazes and make visual discriminations as rapidly as most birds and mammals. Studies of social cognition and novel behavior, including play, reveal levels of complexity not previously believed to exist among nonavian reptiles. Given this level of neural and cognitive complexity, it is possible that consciousness has evolved numerous times, independently, among reptiles.
Y-39983, a Selective Rho-Kinase Inhibitor, Attenuates Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis via Inhibition of Demyelination
Authors: Gao Cong , Huang Li , Long Youming , Zheng Jianzheng , Yang Jie , Pu Shuxiang , Xie Longchang
Published: August 2013

Objective: Rho-associated kinase (ROCK) is a serine/threonine kinase and a major downstream effector of the small GTP-binding protein, Rho. Rho-ROCK triggers an intracellular signaling cascade that controls actin cytoskeleton and is essential for cell motility and adhesion, neurite outgrowth and retraction. In chronic disabling disease, multiple sclerosis (MS) and its animal model experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), demyelination and axonal damage are the major pathological changes contributing to neurological disability. We investigated the protective effect of a specific ROCK inhibitor, Y-39983, on demyelination and axonal damage in chronic EAE. Methods: Western blotting for myelin proteins, electron microscopy and solochrome cyanine staining was performed to evaluate demyelination while neurofilament proteins and cytoskeletal proteins including β-actin and β-tubulin were used to determine axonal damage in a chronic mouse model of EAE treated with Y-39983. Results: Y-39983 significantly suppressed clinical symptoms of EAE and prevented its relapse while increasing the amount of myelin proteins. No significant changes in neurofilaments and cytoskeletal proteins were observed compared with control EAE mice. The inhibition of demyelination by Y-39983 was confirmed by solochrome cyanine staining and electron microscopy. To further study the effect of Y-39983 on demyelination in EAE, we tested three major ROCK substrates, including myosin light chain phosphorylation, LIMK2 and collapsin response mediator protein-2. The activity of these molecules was decreased in EAE animals treated with Y-39983. Conclusion: The inhibitory effect of Y-39983 on demyelination is probably due to the inactivation of ROCK substrates, which are important for neurite outgrowth, growth cone collapse and demyelination of oligodendrocytes.
Role of the Cathelicidin-Related Antimicrobial Peptide in Inflammation and Mortality in a Mouse Model of Bacterial Meningitis
Authors: Merres Julika , Höss Jonas , Albrecht Lea-Jessica , Kress Eugenia , Soehnlein Oliver , Jansen Sandra , Pufe Thomas , Tauber Simone C. , Brandenburg Lars-Ove
Published: August 2013

Antimicrobial peptides (AP) are important components of the innate immune system, yet little is known about their expression and function in the brain. Our previous work revealed upregulated gene expression of cathelicidin-related AP (CRAMP) following bacterial meningitis in primary rat glial cells as well as bactericidal activity against frequent meningitis-causing bacteria. However, the effect of cathelicidin expression on the progression of inflammation and mortality in bacterial meningitis remains unknown. Therefore, we used CRAMP-deficient mice to investigate the effect of CRAMP on bacterial growth, inflammatory responses and mortality in meningitis. Meningitis was induced by intracerebral injection of type 3 Streptococcus pneumoniae. The degree of inflammation was analyzed in various brain regions by means of immunohistochemistry and real-time RT-PCR. CRAMP deficiency led to a higher mortality rate that was associated with increased bacterial titers in the cerebellum, blood and spleen as well as decreased meningeal neutrophil infiltration. CRAMP-deficient mice displayed a higher degree of glial cell activation that was accompanied by a more pronounced proinflammatory response. Taken together, this work provides insight into the important role of CRAMP as part of the innate immune defense against pathogens in bacterial CNS infections. © 2013 S. Karger AG, Basel
Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery for Esophagus for Treating Locally Recurrent Gastric Cancer at the Anastomotic Site
Authors: Ojima Hitoshi , Sano Akihiko , Fukai Yasuyuki , Soda Makoto , Kuwano Hiroyuki
Published: August 2013

Objective: To report a case of video-assisted thoracic surgery for esophagus (VATS-E) for the treatment of locally recurrent gastric cancer at the anastomotic site. Clinical Presentation and Intervention: A 59-year-old man underwent total gastrectomy for gastric cancer. Histopathologically, it was mucinous adenocarcinoma [pT1(sm), pN1, sM0, PM(-), DM(-), stage IB]. Local recurrence was detected and he received chemotherapy and radiotherapy; histopathologically, it was identified as mucinous adenocarcinoma [pT1(sm), pN0, sM0, stage IA]. As the local recurrence was uncontrollable, he underwent VATS-E. At the 1-year follow-up, he was recurrence-free. Conclusion: The VATS-E minimally invasive surgery was a very useful technique for anastomotic recurrence after total gastrectomy in our patient.
Laser Therapy for Twin-Twin Transfusion Syndrome in the Absence of Fetoscopically Visible Placental Vascular Anastomoses
Authors: Ishii Keisuke , Taguchi Takako , Yamamoto Ryo , Murata Masaharu , Sasahara Jun , Mitsuda Nobuaki
Published: August 2013

Fetoscopic laser photocoagulation (FLP) was performed at 22 weeks of gestation for a pregnancy complicated with twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) and an anterior placenta. However, vascular anastomoses could not be identified by the fetoscope. To dichotomize the circulation between the twins, the terminal ends of the paired artery and vein of the recipient twin were coagulated. In addition, a line was drawn with the laser connecting the dots, which had been coagulated. The Doppler waveform as well as the amniotic fluid volume of each twin normalized after the procedure. The twins were delivered by cesarean section subsequent to onset of labor at gestational week 30; the recipient twin weighed 1,350 g and the donor twin weighed 550 g. Both twins had a normal neurologic exam at 6 months of age. Patent placental vascular anastomoses could not be detected. This case demonstrates that vascular anastomoses in TTTS may not be identified by a fetoscope and that FLP to coagulate the entire vascular equator closer to the area of the recipient twin was effective in this rare situation.
Bilateral Masseter and Internal Pterygoid Muscle Hypertrophy: A Diagnostic Challenge
Authors: Andreadis Dimitrios , Stylianou Florentia , Link-Tsatsouli Iris , Markopoulos Anastasios
Published: August 2013

Objective: To describe an unusual case of bilateral masseter and pterygoid muscle hypertrophy. Clinical Presentation and Intervention: A 53-year-old female patient presented with a bilateral, painless swelling at the parotid areas without improvement after using antibiotics/systemic corticosteroids/nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents. Her medical history included thyroid nodules, but no dental/occlusal disorders were observed. The initial differential diagnosis included salivary gland/jaw bone/masseter pathology, but the CT/MRI revealed only an increase in the size of the masseter and pterygoid muscles. The patient was informed of the benign nature of the swelling and was advised to discontinue the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents. Conclusion: The bilateral hypertrophy of masseter muscles should be considered in differential diagnosis in cases of unilateral or bilateral swelling of the parotid or lateral mandible area.
The Imperative of Public Health Education: A Global Perspective
Authors: White Franklin
Published: August 2013

This review positions public health as an endeavour that requires a high order of professionalism in addressing the health of populations; this requires investment in an educational capacity that is designed to meet this need. In the global context, the field has evolved enormously over the past half century, supported by institutions such as the World Bank, the World Health Organization and the Institute of Medicine. Operational structures are formulated by strategic principles, with educational and career pathways guided by competency frameworks, all requiring modulation according to local, national and global realities. Talented and well-motivated individuals are attracted by its multidisciplinary and transdisciplinary environment, and the opportunity to achieve interventions that make real differences to people's lives. The field is globally competitive and open to many professional backgrounds based on merit. Its competencies correspond with assessments of population needs, and the ways in which strategies and services are formulated. Thus, its educational planning is needs-based and evidence-driven. This review explores four public health education levels: graduate, undergraduate, continuing professional education and promotion of health literacy for general populations. The emergence of accreditation schemes is examined, focusing on their relative merits and legitimate international variations. The role of relevant research policies is recognized, along with the need to foster professional and institutional networks in all regions of the world. It is critically important for the health of populations that nations assess their public health human resource needs and develop their ability to deliver this capacity, and not depend on other countries to supply it.
Prognostic Factors and Survival after Resection of Colorectal Liver Metastasis in the Era of Preoperative Chemotherapy: An 11-Year Single-Centre Study
Authors: John S.K.P. , Robinson S.M. , Rehman S. , Harrison B. , Vallance A. , French J.J. , Jaques B.C. , Charnley R.M. , Manas D.M. , White S.A.
Published: August 2013

Introduction: A variety of factors have been identified in the literature which influence survival following resection of colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). Much of this literature is historical, and its relevance to contemporary practice is not known. The aim of this study was to identify those factors which influence survival during the era of preoperative chemotherapy in patients undergoing resection of CRLM in a UK centre. Methods: All patients having liver resection for CRLM during an 11-year period up to 2011 were identified from a prospectively maintained database. Prognostic factors analysed included tumour size (≥5 or <5 cm), lymph node status of the primary tumour, margin positivity (R1; <1 mm), neo-adjuvant chemotherapy (for liver), tumour differentiation, number of liver metastases (≥4), preoperative carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA; ≥200 ng/ml) and whether metastases were synchronous (i.e. diagnosed within 12 months of colorectal resection) or metachronous to the primary tumour. Overall survival (OS) was compared using Kaplan-Meier plots and a log rank test for significance. Multivariate analysis was performed using a Cox regression model. Statistical analysis was performed in SPSS v19, and p < 0.05 was considered to be significant. Results: 432 patients underwent resection of CRLM during this period (67% male; mean age 64.5 years), and of these, 54 (13.5%) had re-resections. The overall 5-year survival in this series was 43% with an actuarial 10-year survival of 40%. A preoperative CEA ≥200 ng/ml was present in 10% of patients and was associated with a poorer 5-year OS (24 vs. 45%; p < 0.001). A positive resection margin <1 mm was present in 16% of patients, and this had a negative impact on 5-year OS (15 vs. 47%; p < 0.001). Tumour differentiation, number, biliary or vascular invasion, size, relationship to primary disease, nodal status of the primary disease or the use of neo-adjuvant chemotherapy had no impact on OS. Multivariate analysis identified only the presence of a positive resection margin (OR 1.75; p < 0.05) and a preoperative CEA ≥200 ng/ml (OR 1.88; p < 0.01) as independent predictors of poor OS. Conclusion: Despite the wide variety of prognostic factors reported in the literature, this study was only able to identify a preoperative CEA ≥200 ng/ml and the presence of tumour within 1 mm of the resection margin as being of value in predicting survival. These variables are likely to identify patients who may benefit from intensive follow-up to enable early aggressive treatment of recurrent disease.
T-Cell Immunoglobulin and Mucin Domain 3 Acts as a Negative Regulator of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Foks Amanda C. , Ran Ingrid A. , Wasserman Loes , Frodermann Vanessa , ter Borg Mariëtte N.D. , de Jager Saskia C.A. , van Santbrink Peter J. , Yagita Hideo , Akiba Hisaya , Bot Ilze , Kuiper Johan , van Puijvelde Gijs H.M.
Published: August 2013

Objective—

Atherosclerosis is a chronic autoimmune-like disease in which lipids and fibrous elements accumulate in the arterial blood vessels. T cells are present within atherosclerotic plaques, and their activation is partially dependent on costimulatory signals, which can either provide positive or negative signals that promote T-cell activation or limit T-cell responses, respectively. T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 3 (Tim-3) is a coinhibitory type 1 transmembrane protein that affects the function of several immune cells involved in atherosclerosis, such as monocytes, macrophages, effector T cells, and regulatory T cells. In the present study, we determined the role of Tim-3 in the development of atherosclerosis.

Approach and Results—

Western-type diet–fed low-density lipoprotein receptor–deficient (LDLr
−/−
) mice were treated with an anti–Tim-3 antibody for 3 and 8 weeks. Anti–Tim-3 administration increased fatty streak formation with 66% and increased atherosclerotic plaque formation after 8 weeks with 35% in the aortic root and with 50% in the aortic arch. Furthermore, blockade of Tim-3 signaling increased percentages of circulating monocytes with 33% and lesional macrophages with 20%. In addition, anti–Tim-3 administration increased CD4
+
T cells with 17%, enhanced their activation status, and reduced percentages of regulatory T cells with 18% and regulatory B cells with 37%.

Conclusions—

It is known that Tim-3 acts as a negative regulator of both innate and adaptive immune responses, and in the present study, we show that anti–Tim-3 treatment augments lesion development, accompanied by an increase in the number of monocytes/macrophages and CD4
+
T cells and by decreased regulatory T cells and regulatory B cells.
Designation as “Unfit for Open Repair” Is Associated With Poor Outcomes After Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm Repair
Authors: De Martino Randall R. , Brooke Benjamin S. , Robinson William , Schanzer Andres , Indes Jeffrey E. , Wallaert Jessica B. , Nolan Brian W. , Cronenwett Jack L. , Goodney Philip P.
Published: August 2013

Background—

Endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) is often offered to patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) considered preoperatively to be unfit for open AAA repair (oAAA). This study describes the short- and long-term outcomes of patients undergoing EVAR with AAAs <6.5 cm who are considered unfit for oAAA.

Methods and Results—

We analyzed elective EVARs for AAAs <6.5 cm diameter in the Vascular Study Group of New England (2003–2011). Patients were designated as fit or unfit for oAAA by the treating surgeon. End points included in-hospital major adverse events and long-term mortality. We identified patient characteristics associated with being unfit for open repair and predictors of survival using multivariable analyses. Of 1653 EVARs, 309 (18.7%) patients were deemed unfit for oAAA. These patients were more likely to have advanced age, cardiac disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and larger aneurysms at the time of repair (54 versus 56 mm,
P
=0.001). Patients unfit for oAAA had higher rates of cardiac (7.8% versus 3.1%,
P
<0.01) and pulmonary (3.6 versus 1.6,
P
<0.01) complications and worse survival rates at 5 years (61% versus 80%; log rank
P
<0.01) compared with those deemed fit for oAAA. Finally, patients designated as unfit for oAAA had worse survival, even adjusting for patient characteristics and aneurysm size (hazard ratio, 1.6; 95% confidence interval, 1.2–2.2;
P
<0.01).

Conclusions—

In patients with AAAs <6.5 cm, designation by the operating surgeon as unfit for oAAA provides insight into both short- and long-term efficacy of EVAR. Patients unable to tolerate oAAA may not benefit from EVAR unless their risk of AAA rupture is very high.
Quaking, an RNA-Binding Protein, Is a Critical Regulator of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Phenotype
Authors: van der Veer Eric P. , de Bruin Ruben G. , Kraaijeveld Adriaan O. , de Vries Margreet R. , Bot Ilze , Pera Tonio , Segers Filip M. , Trompet Stella , van Gils Janine M. , Roeten Marko K. , Beckers Cora M. , van Santbrink Peter J. , Janssen Anique , van Solingen Coen , Swildens Jim , de Boer Hetty C. , Peters Erna A. , Bijkerk Roel , Rousch Mat , Doop Merijn , Kuiper Johan , Schalij Martin Jan , van der Wal Allard C. , Richard Stéphane , van Berkel Theo J.C. , Pickering J. Geoffrey , Hiemstra Pieter S. , Goumans Marie Jose , Rabelink Ton J. , de Vries Antoine A.F. , Quax Paul H.A. , Jukema J. Wouter , Biessen Erik A.L. , van Zonneveld Anton Jan
Published: August 2013

Rationale
:

RNA-binding proteins are critical post-transcriptional regulators of RNA and can influence pre-mRNA splicing, RNA localization, and stability. The RNA-binding protein Quaking (QKI) is essential for embryonic blood vessel development. However, the role of QKI in the adult vasculature, and in particular in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), is currently unknown.

Objective
:

We sought to determine the role of QKI in regulating adult VSMC function and plasticity.

Methods and Results
:

We identified that QKI is highly expressed by neointimal VSMCs of human coronary restenotic lesions, but not in healthy vessels. In a mouse model of vascular injury, we observed reduced neointima hyperplasia in Quaking viable mice, which have decreased QKI expression. Concordantly, abrogation of QKI attenuated fibroproliferative properties of VSMCs, while potently inducing contractile apparatus protein expression, rendering noncontractile VSMCs with the capacity to contract. We identified that QKI localizes to the spliceosome, where it interacts with the myocardin pre-mRNA and regulates the splicing of alternative exon 2a. This post-transcriptional event impacts the Myocd_v3/Myocd_v1 mRNA balance and can be modulated by mutating the quaking response element in exon 2a of myocardin. Furthermore, we identified that arterial damage triggers myocardin alternative splicing and is tightly coupled with changes in the expression levels of distinct QKI isoforms.

Conclusions
:

We propose that QKI is a central regulator of VSMC phenotypic plasticity and that intervention in QKI activity can ameliorate pathogenic, fibroproliferative responses to vascular injury.
Effect of Premeasurement Rest Time on Systolic Ankle Pressure
Authors: Chuter Vivienne H. , Casey Sarah L.
Published: August 2013

Background

Systolic ankle pressures are routinely measured as part of an ankle‐brachial index to screen for lower extremity peripheral arterial disease. Despite widespread use of this measurement, the effect of premeasurement duration of rest on the magnitude, or reliability of the ankle systolic pressure measurement is unknown. This study assessed the effect of premeasurement rest duration on systolic ankle pressures.

Methods and Results

One hundred and forty participants meeting guidelines for peripheral arterial disease screening volunteered for this study. Following 5 minutes of rest in the supine horizontal position, ankle systolic pressures of the lower extremity were taken. Measurements were repeated at 10 and 15 minutes. Testing was repeated 7 to 10 days later. A significant drop in ankle pressure of 5.02 mm Hg occurred between 5 and 10 minutes (
P
=0.004). No significant change occurred between 10 and 15 minutes (mean change 0.15 mm Hg,
P
=0.99). Presence of diabetes was associated with a smaller drop between 5 and 15 minutes (mean change 1.85 mm Hg) and predicted 13.4% of the variance in change in ankle pressure (β=−3.61,
P
=0.0001). Test‐retest reliability after 5 minutes was excellent (intraclass correlation coefficient: 0.84, 95%
CI
: 0.76 to 0.91) however increased for measurements taken at 10 and 15 minutes (intraclass correlation coefficient: 0.89 95%
CI
: 0.83 to 0.94 and 0.89 95%
CI
: 0.82 to 0.93).

Conclusions

Results suggest ankle systolic pressures stabilise after 10 minutes of rest. Longer periods of premeasurement rest did not improve reliability significantly. Though diabetes affects ankle pressure changes after rest, further investigation is required to identify the cause.
Trials to Improve Blood Pressure Through Adherence to Antihypertensives in Stroke/TIA: Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: De Simoni Anna , Hardeman Wendy , Mant Jonathan , Farmer Andrew J. , Kinmonth Ann Louise
Published: August 2013

Background

The purpose of this study was to determine whether interventions including components to improve adherence to antihypertensive medications in patients after stroke/transient ischemic attack (
TIA
) improve adherence and blood pressure control.

Methods and Results

We searched
MEDLINE
,
EMBASE
,
CINAHL
,
BNI
, Psyc
INFO
, and article reference lists to October 2012. Search terms included stroke/
TIA
, adherence/prevention, hypertension, and randomized controlled trial (
RCT
). Inclusion criteria were participants with stroke/
TIA
; interventions including a component to improve adherence to antihypertensive medications; and outcomes including blood pressure, antihypertensive adherence, or both. Two reviewers independently assessed studies to determine eligibility, validity, and quality. Seven
RCT
s were eligible (n=1591). Methodological quality varied. All trials tested multifactorial interventions. None targeted medication adherence alone. Six trials measured blood pressure and 3 adherence. Meta‐analysis of 6 trials showed that multifactorial programs were associated with improved blood pressure control. The difference between intervention versus control in mean improvement in systolic blood pressure was −5.3 mm Hg (95%
CI
, −10.2 to −0.4 mm Hg,
P
=0.035;
I
2
=67% [21% to 86%]) and in diastolic blood pressure was −2.5 mm Hg (−5.0 to −0.1 mm Hg,
P
=0.046;
I
2
=47% [0% to 79%]). There was no effect on medication adherence where measured.

Conclusions

Multifactorial interventions including a component to improve medication adherence can lower blood pressure after stroke/
TIA
. However, it is not possible to say whether or not this is achieved through better medication adherence. Trials are needed of well‐characterized interventions to improve medication adherence and clinical outcomes with measurement along the hypothesized causal pathway.
Admission Insular Infarction >25% Is the Strongest Predictor of Large Mismatch Loss in Proximal Middle Cerebral Artery Stroke
Authors: Kamalian Shervin , Kemmling Andre , Borgie Roderick C. , Morais Livia T. , Payabvash Seyedmehdi , Franceschi Ana M. , Kamalian Shahmir , Yoo Albert J. , Furie Karen L. , Lev Michael H.
Published: August 2013

Background and Purpose—

Previous univariate analyses have suggested that proximal middle cerebral artery infarcts with insular involvement have greater severity and are more likely to progress into surrounding penumbral tissue at risk. We hypothesized that a practical, simple scoring method to assess percent insular ribbon infarction (PIRI score) would improve prediction of penumbral loss over other common imaging biomarkers.

Methods—

Of consecutive acute stroke patients from 2003 to 2008, 45 with proximal middle cerebral artery–only occlusion met inclusion criteria, including available penumbral imaging. Infarct (diffusion-weighted imaging), tissue at risk (magnetic resonance mean transit time), and final infarct volume (magnetic resonance/computed tomography) were manually segmented. Diffusion-weighted imaging images were rated according to the 5-point PIRI score (0, normal; 1, <25%; 2, 25%–49%; 3, 50%–74%; 4, ≥75% insula involvement). Percent mismatch loss was calculated as an outcome measure of infarct progression. Receiver operating characteristic curve and multivariate analyses were performed.

Results—

Mean admission diffusion-weighted imaging infarct volume was 30.9 (±38.8) mL and median (interquartile range) PIRI score was 3 (0.75–4). PIRI score was significantly correlated with percent mismatch loss (
P
<0.0001). When percent mismatch loss was dichotomized based on its median value (30.0%), receiver operating characteristic curve area under curve was 0.89 (
P
=0.0001) with a 25% insula infarction optimal threshold. After adjusting for time to imaging and treatment, binary logistic regression, including dichotomized PIRI (25% threshold), age, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, diffusion-weighted imaging infarct volume, and computed tomography angiography collateral score as covariates, revealed that only dichotomized insula score (
P
=0.03) and age (
P
=0.02) were independent predictors of large (68.2%) versus small (8.1%) mismatch loss. There was excellent interobserver agreement for dichotomized PIRI scoring (κ=0.91).

Conclusions—

Admission insular infarction >25% is the strongest predictor of large mismatch loss in this cohort of proximal middle cerebral artery occlusive stroke. This outcome marker may help to identify treatment-eligible patients who are in greatest need of rapid reperfusion therapy.
Explaining the Prevalence of Voluntary Associations among 351 Massachusetts Municipalities circa 1965: Testing a Theory
Authors: Smith David Horton
Published: August 2013

Abstract

Data from an extensive research project in the state of Massachusetts (USA), collected in the 1960s and never before reported, are used to test a theory of association prevalence among 351 municipalities. The dependent variable to be explained was an Association Prevalence Index (total number existing) in each municipality. The Index was derived from Massachusetts Statehouse physical records for all incorporated Nonprofit Organizations (NPOs), and showed an average of 33 associations per municipality. Using bivariate correlations, the results confirmed the theory generally. Association prevalence (raw number of associations) in a municipality was positively and significantly related to larger population size, being a county administrative center, more business telephones, greater circulation of weekly newspapers (local newspapers), more service businesses, more state government agencies, more churches, larger percentage of African-Americans, and more halls/buildings available for association gatherings (meetings, events). Contrary to the theory, the socioeconomic status of municipalities was not significantly related to association prevalence. The Statehouse Association Prevalence Index was correlated very highly (r = .92) with an independent measure of association prevalence, derived from coding the “Yellow Pages” of phone books. This result indicates the reliability and general validity of both prevalence measures.
A molecular phylogeny of African Dainty Frogs, with the description of four new species (Anura: Pyxicephalidae: Cacosternum)
Authors: Channing Alan , SCHMITZ ANDREAS , Burger Marius , KIELGAST JOS
Published: August 2013

We examined specimens from all eleven described species of African Dainty Frogs, Cacosternum. Advertisement calls, 16S and tyr sequences were obtained from voucher specimens of all known species plus undescribed taxa. A phylogenetic analysis indicated that there were 15 species. We describe four new species from South Africa that can be diagnosed by their advertisement calls: Cacosternum aggestum sp. nov. from the interior of the south-western Cape, the large C. nanogularum sp. nov. from KwaZulu-Natal, C. australis sp. nov. from the Western Cape Province and C. rhythmum sp. nov. from the KwaZulu-Natal midlands. Cacosternum schebeni is confirmed as a junior synonym of C. boettgeri, and we agree that C. poyntoni is a junior synonym of C. nanum. The populations of dainty frogs on the Ethiopian highlands remain to be investigated. Shared tyr haplotypes occur between species that are not necessarily closely related, but always sympatric, at least in the recent past. This is evidence for hybridisation that requires further investigation. A provisional identification key to the species is provided.
The classification and diversity of dragonflies and damselflies (Odonata). In: Zhang, Z.-Q. (Ed.) Animal Biodiversity: An Outline of Higher-level Classification and Survey of Taxonomic Richness (Addenda 2013)
Authors: Dijkstra Klaas-Douwe B. , Bechly Günter , Bybee Seth M. , Dow Rory A. , Dumont Henri J. , Fleck Günther , Garrison Rosser W. , Hämäläinen Matti , Kalkman Vincent J. , Karube Haruki , May Michael L. , Orr Albert G. , Paulson Dennis R. , Rehn Andrew C. , Theischinger Günther , Trueman John W.H. , Van Tol Jan , Von Ellenrieder Natalia , Ware Jessica
Published: August 2013

An updated classification and numbers of described genera and species (until 2010) are provided up to family level. We argue for conserving the family-group names Chlorocyphidae, Euphaeidae and Dicteriadidae, as well as retaining Epiophlebiidae in the suborder Anisozygoptera. Pseudostigmatidae and New World Protoneuridae are sunk in Coenagrionidae and Old World Protoneuridae in Platycnemididae. The families Amphipterygidae and Megapodagrionidae as traditionally recognized are not monophyletic, as may be the superfamily Calopterygoidea. The proposal to separate Chlorogomphidae, Cordulegastridae and Neopetaliidae from Libelluloidea in their own superfamily Cordulegastroidea is adopted. Macromiidae, Libellulidae and Synthemistidae and a restricted Corduliidae are accepted as families, but many genera of Libelluloidea are retained as incertae sedis at present. 5952 extant species in 652 genera have been described up to 2010. These are placed here in 30 families; recent proposals to separate additional families from Amphipterygidae and Megapodagrionidae have not yet been incorporated.
Polarimetric Radar Characteristics of Melting Hail. Part II: Practical Implications
Authors: Ryzhkov Alexander V. , Kumjian Matthew R. , Ganson Scott M. , Zhang Pengfei
Published: August 2013

The results of theoretical modeling in Part I are utilized to develop practical recommendations for developing the algorithms for hail detection and determination of its size as well as attenuation correction and rainfall estimation in the presence of hail. A new algorithm for discrimination between small hail (with maximal size of less than 2.5 cm), large hail (with diameters between 2.5 and 5.0 cm), and giant hail with size exceeding 5.0 cm is proposed and implemented for applications with the S-band dual-polarization Weather Surveillance Radar-1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) systems. The fuzzy-logic algorithm is based on the combined use of radar reflectivity Z, differential reflectivity ZDR, and cross-correlation coefficient ρhv. The parameters of the membership functions depend on the height of the radar resolution volume with respect to the freezing level, exploiting the size-dependent melting characteristics of hailstones. The attenuation effects in melting hail are quantified in this study, and a novel technique for polarimetric attenuation correction in the presence of hail is suggested. The use of a rainfall estimator that is based on specific differential phase KDP is justified on the basis of the results of theoretical simulations and comparison of actual radar retrievals at S band with gauge measurements for storms containing large hail with diameters exceeding 2.5 cm.
Examining Internal and External Contributors to Greenland Climate Variability Using CCSM3
Authors: Andres Heather J. , Peltier W. R.
Published: August 2013

Greenland climate variability is connected to internal and external sources of global climate forcing in six millennium simulations using Community Climate System Model, version 3. The external forcings employed are consistent with the protocols of Paleoclimate Modelling Intercomparison Project Phase 3. Many simulated internal climate modes are characterized over the years 850–1850, including the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC), the Atlantic multidecadal oscillation (AMO), the east Atlantic pattern (EA), the El Niño–Southern Oscillation, the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), the North Atlantic sea ice extent, and the Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO). Lagged correlation and multivariate regression methods connect Greenland temperatures and precipitation to these internal modes and external sources of climate variability.

Greenland temperature and precipitation are found to relate most strongly to North Atlantic sea ice extent, the AMO, and the AMOC, that are themselves strongly interconnected. Furthermore, approximately half of the multidecadal variability in Greenland temperature and precipitation are captured through linear relationships with volcanic aerosol optical depth, solar insolation (including total solar irradiance and local orbital variability), the NAO, the EA, and the PDO. Relationships are robust with volcanic aerosol optical depth, solar insolation, and an index related to latitudinal shifts of the North Atlantic jet. Differences attributable to model resolution are also identified in the results, such as lower variability in the AMOC and Greenland temperature in the higher-resolution simulations. Finally, a regression model is applied to simulations of the industrial period to show that natural sources alone only explain the variability in simulated Greenland temperature and precipitation up to the 1950s and 1970s, respectively.
ENSO-Modulated Cyclogenesis over the Bay of Bengal*
Authors: Felton Clifford S. , Subrahmanyam Bulusu , Murty V. S. N.
Published: August 2013

The role of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on the modulation of tropical cyclone activity over the Bay of Bengal (BoB) for the 1979–2011 period is examined. It is shown that Niño-3.4 sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies are negatively correlated with the BoB tropical cyclone activity to a statistically significant percentage by a lead time of 5 months. Composites of 10-m zonal winds exhibit greater variance during La Niña events, favoring the development of low-level cyclonic vorticity. Low vertical wind shear over the central and northern BoB also aids in the development of tropical cyclones during La Niña events. Increased relative humidity is the result of enhanced moisture transport and higher precipitable water under La Niña conditions. Furthermore, storm-relative composites of relative humidity show stronger moisture pulses over the BoB during La Niña. The enhanced moisture associated with tropical cyclogenesis likely aids in the development and strengthening of the systems. ENSO forces modulations in oceanic conditions as well. The observed negative (positive) SST anomalies during La Niña (El Niño) could be seen as the result of increased (decreased) net heat flux across the sea surface. Tropical cyclone activity varies between El Niño and La Niña as a result of anomalous wind and moisture patterns during each ENSO phase.
Learning Analytics
Authors: Siemens George
Published: August 2013

Recently, learning analytics (LA) has drawn the attention of academics, researchers, and administrators. This interest is motivated by the need to better understand teaching, learning, “intelligent content,” and personalization and adaptation. While still in the early stages of research and implementation, several organizations (Society for Learning Analytics Research and the International Educational Data Mining Society) have formed to foster a research community around the role of data analytics in education. This article considers the research fields that have contributed technologies and methodologies to the development of learning analytics, analytics models, the importance of increasing analytics capabilities in organizations, and models for deploying analytics in educational settings. The challenges facing LA as a field are also reviewed, particularly regarding the need to increase the scope of data capture so that the complexity of the learning process can be more accurately reflected in analysis. Privacy and data ownership will become increasingly important for all participants in analytics projects. The current legal system is immature in relation to privacy and ethics concerns in analytics. The article concludes by arguing that LA has sufficiently developed, through conferences, journals, summer institutes, and research labs, to be considered an emerging research field.
Age, prostitution and punishment in the late nineteenth century
Authors: Wimshurst Kerry
Published: August 2013

Considerable research has been undertaken by historians to understand the meanings of prostitution as it evolved in the nineteenth century. Initially, commercial sex was considered in terms of criminality and deviance. Later studies, influenced by the seminal work of Walkowitz (1980) , explored the role of local economies in shaping the lived experiences of prostitutes. This article investigates the incarceration of women labelled as prostitutes in late nineteenth century Queensland, using prison and police sources. The analysis identifies similarities and differences between prostitutes and other female prisoners as a way of exploring the place of prostitutes in patterns of ‘offending’ in their communities. While situated in a criminal justice framework, the article takes account of recent work on historical images and representations of prostitutes. There is general agreement among historians on some core interpretations, but debate still surrounds the role of age, and particularly how concerns about age might have informed strategies of governance. In fact, it seems that age was less important in terms of control strategies. Instead, the reputation of women as street rowdies, petty criminals, and the carriers of disease were deciding factors in official regulation of their lives. However, considerations of age did inform contemporary visions of ‘deviant’ women, and especially popular views about divisions between deviant women themselves. Examples are provided of the formation of views about older and younger female offenders. Such views about generational divisions between ‘fallen’ women have exerted a tenacious hold on modern imaginations.