bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rationale and Design of the Prevention of Cardiac Dysfunction during an Adjuvant Breast Cancer Therapy (PRADA) Trial
Authors: Heck Siri Lagethon , Gulati Geeta , Ree Anne Hansen , Schulz-Menger Jeanette , Gravdehaug Berit , Røsjø Helge , Steine Kjetil , Bratland Åse , Hoffmann Pavel , Geisler Jürgen , Omland Torbjørn
Published: November 2012

Objective: The PRevention of cArdiac Dysfunction during Adjuvant breast cancer therapy (PRADA) study is a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial to determine whether angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB), or beta-blockers or their combination may prevent the development of left ventricular (LV) dysfunction in patients on standard adjuvant treatment for early breast cancer. Methods: Following surgical resection, 120 breast cancer patients scheduled for adjuvant epirubicin-containing chemotherapy and, if indicated, trastuzumab, will be included. They will be randomized to an ARB (candesartan), a beta-blocker (metoprolol) and matching placebos in a 2 × 2 factorial design. The primary objective of the PRADA study is to assess whether prophylactic ARB and/or beta-blockers may prevent a reduction in LV ejection fraction (EF) after adjuvant treatment of early breast cancer, as evaluated by serial cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) performed at randomization, after the first chemotherapy cycle and on its completion, and for subgroups, on completion of radiotherapy or trastuzumab. Secondary outcome measures include echocardiographic indices of LV diastolic dysfunction, structural myocardial alterations assessed by CMR and changes in cardiac biomarkers. Conclusion: PRADA may provide new information on the prophylactic effect of ARB and beta-blockers in patients with early breast cancer regarding the risk of developing cardiac dysfunction from adjuvant cancer treatment.
Efficacy and safety of thromboprophylaxis with low-molecular-weight heparin or rivaroxaban in hip and knee replacement surgery
Authors: Lützner Jörg , Donath Lars , Tittl Luise , Knoth Holger , Radke Oliver C. , Kuhlisch Eberhard , Stange Thoralf , Hartmann Albrecht , Günther Klaus-Peter , Weiss Norbert , Werth Sebastian , Beyer-Westendorf Jan
Published: November 2012

Prospective trials have shown that rivaroxaban thromboprophylaxis is superior over low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) in patients undergoing hip and knee replacement surgery. However, patients treated under trial conditions are different from unselected routine patients, which may affect efficacy and safety of thromboprophylaxis. The objective was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of rivaroxaban or LMWH thromboprophylaxis in unselected patients undergoing hip and knee replacement surgery in daily care. In a monocentric, retrospective cohort study in 5,061 consecutive patients undergoing hip and knee replacement surgery a comparison of LMWH (hospital standard in 2006–2007) and rivaroxaban (since 2009) was made with regard to rates of symptomatic VTE, bleeding and surgical complications and length of hospital stay. Rates of symptomatic VTE were 4.1 % (LMWH) and 2.1 % (rivaroxaban; p=0.005) with rates for distal DVT 2.5 vs. 1.1 % (p<0.001). Rates of major VTE were numerically higher with LMWH (1.7 vs. 1.1%, not statistically significant). Rates of major bleeding (overt bleeding leading to surgical revision or death, occurring in a critical site, or transfusion of at least two units of packed red blood cells) were statistically lower with rivaroxaban (2.9 vs. 7.0%; p<0.001). Rivaroxaban patients had fewer surgical complications (1.1 vs. 3.7%; p<0.001) and a shorter length of hospitalisation (8.3 days; 95% CI 8.1– 8.5 vs. 11.1 days; 10.7– 11.5; p< 0.001). We conclude that rivaroxaban thromboprophylaxis is more effective than LMWH in unselected patients undergoing hip and knee replacement surgery in daily care and that switching from LMWH to rivaroxaban could be beneficial. Prospective comparisons are warranted to confirm our findings.
Penetrance of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Jensen Morten K. , Havndrup Ole , Christiansen Michael , Andersen Paal S. , Diness Birgitte , Axelsson Anna , Skovby Flemming , Køber Lars , Bundgaard Henning
Published: November 2012

Background—

The penetrance of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) during childhood and adolescence has been only sparsely described. We studied the penetrance of HCM and the short- and long-term outcomes of clinical screening and predictive genetic testing of child relatives of patients with HCM.

Methods and Results—

Ninety probands and 361 relatives were included in a family screening program for HCM (1994–2001). Eleven sarcomere genes, CRYAB, α-GAL, and titin were screened. Sixty-six relatives and 4 probands were <18 years of age at inclusion. Twelve child relatives were mutation carriers (age, 12 ± 5 years), and 26 had unknown genetic status, ie, relatives from families without identified mutations (n = 21) or not tested (n = 5) (age, 11 ± 5 years). Twenty-eight noncarriers (42%; age, 10 ± 4 years) served as control subjects. Two of 38 child relatives (5%) at risk of developing HCM fulfilled diagnostic criteria for HCM at inclusion. After 12 ± 1 years of follow-up, 2 of the 36 (6%; 95% confidence interval, 2–18) at-risk child relatives who were phenotype negative at inclusion had developed the HCM phenotype at 26 and 28 years of age. During follow-up, none of the child relatives experienced serious cardiac events. Participation in the screening program had no long-term negative psychological impact.

Conclusions—

The penetrance of HCM in phenotype-negative child relatives at risk of developing HCM was 6% after 12 years of follow-up. The finding of phenotype conversion in the mid-20s warrants continued screening into adulthood. Forty-two percent of the child relatives were noncarriers, and repeat clinical follow-up could be safely limited to the remaining children.
Brain and Circulating Levels of Aβ1–40 Differentially Contribute to Vasomotor Dysfunction in the Mouse Brain
Authors: Park Laibaik , Zhou Ping , Koizumi Kenzo , El Jamal Sleiman , Previti Mary Lou , Van Nostrand William E. , Carlson George , Iadecola Costantino
Published: November 2012

Background and Purpose—

Amyloid-β (Aβ), a peptide that accumulates in the brain and circulates in the blood of patients with Alzheimer disease, alters the regulation of cerebral blood flow and may contribute to the brain dysfunction underlying the dementia. However, the contributions of brain and circulating Aβ1–40 to the vascular dysfunction have not been elucidated.

Methods—

We used transgenic mice overexpressing mutated forms of the amyloid precursor protein in which Aβ1–40 is elevated in blood and brain (Tg-2576) or only in brain (Tg-SwDI). Mice were equipped with a cranial window, and the increase in cerebral blood flow induced by neural activity (whisker stimulation), or by topical application of endothelium-dependent vasodilators, was assessed by laser-Doppler flowmetry.

Results—

The cerebrovascular dysfunction was observed also in Tg-SwDI mice, but despite ≈40% higher levels of brain Aβ1–40, the effect was less marked than in Tg-2576 mice. Intravascular administration of Aβ1–40 elevated plasma Aβ1–40 and enhanced the dysfunction in Tg-SwDI mice, but not in Tg-2576 mice.

Conclusions—

The results provide evidence that Aβ1–40 acts on distinct luminal and abluminal vascular targets, the deleterious cerebrovascular effects of which are additive. Furthermore, the findings highlight the importance of circulating Aβ1–40 in the cerebrovascular dysfunction and may provide insight into the cerebrovascular alterations in conditions in which elevations in plasma Aβ1–40 occur.
Statistical Characteristics of Convective Storms in Belgium Derived from Volumetric Weather Radar Observations
Authors: Goudenhoofdt Edouard , Delobbe Laurent
Published: November 2012

High-resolution volumetric reflectivity measurements from a C-band weather radar are used to study the characteristics of convective storms in Belgium. After clutter filtering, the data are processed by the storm-tracking system Thunderstorm Identification, Tracking, Analysis, and Nowcasting (TITAN) using a 40-dBZ reflectivity threshold. The 10-yr period of 5-min data includes more than 1 million identified storms, mostly organized in clusters. A storm is observed at a given point 6 h yr−1 on average. Regions of slightly higher probability are generally correlated with orographic variations. The probability of at least one storm in the study area is 15%, with a maximum of 35% for July and August. The number of storms, their coverage, and their water mass are limited most of the time. The probability to observe a high number of storms reaches a maximum in June and in the early afternoon in phase with solar heating. The probability of large storm coverage and large water mass is highest in July and in the late afternoon. Convective storms are mostly small and weak. Deeper ones are found mainly in the afternoon whereas bigger and more intense ones also appear in the evening. The occurrence of the most intense storms does not vary along the day. Simple tracks have a mean duration of 25 min. Complex tracks, involving splitting or merging, last 70 min on average. Most convective storms move in the northeast direction, with a median speed of 30 km h−1. Their motion is slower in summer and in the afternoon. Regions with slightly higher convective initiation are related to orography.
Factors Controlling the Vertical Extent of Fair-Weather Shallow Cumulus Clouds over Land: Investigation of Diurnal-Cycle Observations Collected at the ARM Southern Great Plains Site
Authors: Zhang Yunyan , Klein Stephen A.
Published: November 2012

Summertime observations for 13 yr at the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Southern Great Plains site are used to study fair-weather shallow cumuli (ShCu). To roughly separate forced from active ShCu, days are categorized into “thin-” or “thick-” ShCu days according to whether the daytime-average cloud depth exceeds 300 m. By comparing diurnal-cycle composites of these two regimes, the authors document differences in cloud properties and their radiative impacts. The differences in environmental conditions provide clues as to what controls ShCu vertical extent.

Higher boundary layer (BL) relative humidity (RH) is found on thick-cloud days, associated with large-scale moisture advection before sunrise. This higher BL RH not only contributes to a lower cloud base but also to the penetrating ability of an air parcel to reach higher levels, and thus leads to larger cloud vertical extent.

Although not as significant as BL RH, ShCu vertical extent also varies with thermal stability and surface fluxes. Enhanced stability above cloud on thin-cloud days may limit cloud vertical extent. A larger sensible heat flux on thin-cloud days encourages greater entrainment of dry air into the BL, whereas a larger latent heat flux on thick-cloud days helps sustain higher afternoon BL RH. These heat flux differences help maintain the BL RH differences that appear to control cloud vertical extent.

This study provides observational evidence that forced clouds are related to BL large-eddy overshoots limited by a stronger inversion whereas higher moisture and a weaker stability above favor active cumuli with greater vertical extent.
The Vertical Structure of the Eddy Diffusivity and the Equilibration of the Extratropical Atmosphere
Authors: Jansen Malte , Ferrari Raffaele
Published: November 2012

Observations suggest that the time- and zonal-mean state of the extratropical atmosphere adjusts itself such that the so-called “criticality parameter” (which relates the vertical stratification to the horizontal temperature gradient) is close to one. T. Schneider has argued that the criticality parameter is kept near one by a constraint on the zonal momentum budget in primitive equations. The constraint relies on a diffusive closure for the eddy flux of potential vorticity (PV) with an eddy diffusivity that is approximately constant in the vertical.

The diffusive closure for the eddy PV flux, however, depends crucially on the definition of averages along isentropes that intersect the surface. It is argued that the definition favored by Schneider results in eddy PV fluxes whose physical interpretation is unclear and that do not satisfy the proposed closure in numerical simulations. An alternative definition, first proposed by T.-Y. Koh and R. A. Plumb, is preferred. A diffusive closure for the eddy PV flux under this definition is supported by analysis of the PV variance budget and can be used to close the near-surface zonal momentum budget in idealized numerical simulations. Following this approach, it is shown that O(1) criticalities are obtained if the eddy diffusivity decays from its surface value to about zero over the depth of the troposphere, which is likely to be the case in Earth’s atmosphere. Large criticality parameters, however, are possible if the eddy diffusivity decays only weakly in the vertical, consistent with results from quasigeostrophic models. This provides theoretical support for recent numerical studies that have found supercritical mean states in primitive equation models.
Spatial and Temporal Characterization of Sea Surface Temperature Response to Tropical Cyclones*
Authors: Mei Wei , Pasquero Claudia
Published: November 2012

The spatial structure and temporal evolution of the sea surface temperature (SST) anomaly (SSTA) associated with the passage of tropical cyclones (TCs), as well as their sensitivity to TC characteristics (including TC intensity and translation speed) and oceanic climatological conditions (represented here by latitude), are thoroughly examined by means of composite analysis using satellite-derived SST data. The magnitude of the TC-generated SSTA is larger for more intense, slower-moving, and higher-latitude TCs, and it occurs earlier in time for faster-moving and higher-latitude storms. The location of maximum SSTA is farther off the TC track for faster-moving storms, and it moves toward the track with time after the TC passage. The spatial extension of the cold wake is greater for more intense and for slower-moving storms, but its shape is quite independent of TC characteristics. Consistent with previous studies, the calculations show that the mean SSTA over a TC-centered box nearly linearly correlates with the wind speed for TCs below category 3 intensity while for stronger TCs the SSTA levels off, both for tropical and subtropical regions. While the linear behavior is expected on the basis of the more vigorous mixing induced by stronger winds and is derived from a simple mixed-layer model, the level-off for intense TCs is discussed in terms of the dependence of the maximum amplitude of the area-mean SSTA on TC translation speed and depth of the prestorm mixed layer. Finally, the decay time scale of the TC-induced SSTA is shown to be dominated by environmental conditions and has no clear dependence on its initial magnitude and on TC characteristics.
A Geographic Primitive-Based Bayesian Framework to Predict Cyclone-Induced Flooding*
Authors: Wijesundera Isuri , Halgamuge Malka N. , Nirmalathas Thas , Nanayakkara Thrishantha
Published: November 2012

The effectiveness of managing cyclone-induced floods is highly dependent on how fast reasonably accurate predictions can be made, which is a particularly difficult task given the multitude of highly variable physical factors. Even with supercomputers, collecting and processing vast amounts of data from numerous asynchronous sources makes it challenging to achieve high prediction efficiency. This paper presents a model that combines prior knowledge, including rainfall data statistics and topographical features, with any new precipitation data to generate a probabilistic prediction using Bayesian learning, where the advantages of data-oriented and heuristic modeling are combined. The terrain is partitioned into geographic primitives (GPs) based on manual inspection of flood propagation vector fields in order to simplify the stochastic system identification. High calculation efficiency is achieved through statistically summarizing simultaneous events spread across geography into primitives, allowing a distributed updating algorithm leading to parallel computing. Markov chain processes identified for each of these GPs, based on both simulation and measured rainfall data, are then used in real-time predictions of water flow probabilities. The model takes a comprehensive approach, which enables flood prediction even before the landfall of a cyclone through modularizing the algorithm into three prediction steps: cyclone path, rainfall probability density distribution, and temporal dynamics of flood density distribution. Results of comparative studies based on real data of two cyclones (Yasi and Tasha) that made landfall in Queensland, Australia, in 2010/11 show that the model is capable of predicting up to 3 h ahead of the official forecast, with a 33% improvement of accuracy compared to the models presently being used.
A Global Climatology of Baroclinically Influenced Tropical Cyclogenesis
Authors: McTaggart-Cowan Ron , Galarneau Thomas J. , Bosart Lance F. , Moore Richard W. , Martius Olivia
Published: November 2012

Tropical cyclogenesis is generally considered to occur in regions devoid of baroclinic structures; however, an appreciable number of tropical cyclones (TCs) form in baroclinic environments each year. A global climatology of these baroclinically influenced TC developments is presented in this study. An objective classification strategy is developed that focuses on the characteristics of the environmental state rather than on properties of the vortex, thus allowing for a pointwise “development pathway” classification of reanalysis data. The resulting climatology shows that variability within basins arises primarily as a result of local surface thermal contrasts and the positions of time-mean features on the subtropical tropopause. The pathway analyses are sampled to generate a global climatology of 1948–2010 TC developments classified by baroclinic influence: nonbaroclinic (70%), low-level baroclinic (9%), trough induced (5%), weak tropical transition (11%), and strong tropical transition (5%). All basins other than the North Atlantic are dominated by nonbaroclinic events; however, there is extensive interbasin variability in secondary development pathways. Within each basin, subregions and time periods are identified in which the relative importance of the development pathways also differs. The efficiency of tropical cyclogenesis is found to be highly dependent on development pathway. The peak efficiency defined in the classification subspace straddles the nonbaroclinic/trough-induced boundary, suggesting that the optimal environment for TC development includes a baroclinic contribution from an upper-level disturbance. By assessing the global distribution of baroclinically influenced TC formations, this study identifies regions and pathways whose further study could yield improvements in our understanding of this important subset of TC developments.
“Strange and Otherwise Unaccountable Actions”
Authors: Marcus Barbara F. , McNamara Susan
Published: November 2012

Despite recognizing that gender identity is a complex compromise formation, psychotherapists struggle to tolerate gender variance. We still tend to favor binary gender identities and clear developmental lines, rather than embracing a stance of subversive curiosity about the variability and fluidity of gender in our patients. When gender identity is fluid or ambiguous, countertransferential affective disturbances can arise that meld states of abjection and excitement, challenging theoretical constructs and threatening therapeutic neutrality. Case material from the treatment of a female-to-male trans person is presented from the perspective of the transference-countertransference matrix.
Factors Influencing the Usability of Mobile Destination Management Organization Websites
Authors: Stienmetz Jason L. , Levy Stuart E. , Boo Soyoung
Published: November 2012

Mobile devices, such as smartphones, are fast becoming the primary way for many travelers to access the Internet in search of travel-related information. While mobile devices provide travelers with ubiquitous access to the Internet, they also face limitations, such as small screens and slow loading times, which destination management organizations (DMOs) must consider when designing mobile websites. This study investigates the factors influencing the overall usability of mobile DMO websites. Based on a sample of U.S. travelers with mobile devices, findings indicate that design elements related to Ease of Use and Content contribute most significantly to the overall usability of mobile DMO websites. Also, travelers highly value mobile DMO websites that are well structured and organized, offer convenient services, and have an easy-to-understand appearance. Managerial implications and areas for further research are discussed.
Protected Area Visitor Willingness to Participate in Site Enhancement Activities
Authors: Weaver David Bruce
Published: November 2012

Cluster analysis of survey responses from 804 visitors to national parks in Australia’s Gold Coast hinterland indicated variable proclivity to participate in diverse site enhancement activities. The “enthused” (8%) are willing to engage in focused activism such as planting trees, and incidental activism such as opportunistic litter removal. Willingness to donate and pay an entry fee is also evident. Conversely, the “disengaged” (17%) are mostly unsupportive. Intermediate “incidentally enthused” (12%), “amenable” (25%), “casual” (12%), and “incidental” (26%) clusters display decreasing enthusiasm for focused activism but sustained support for incidental activism. Enthusiasm associates with altruistic values, environmental concern, self-empowerment, moral obligation, hard ecotourism tendencies, site loyalty, local residence, and age. The results suggest a small core of potential engagement with conventional volunteer tourism activity, but widespread support for unconventional and convenient activities that may serve as a platform for higher engagement with site enhancement.
Selective Inhibition of PDE4 in Wistar Rats Can Lead to Dilatation in Testis, Efferent Ducts, and Epididymis and Subsequent Formation of Sperm Granulomas
Authors: Heuser Anke , Mecklenburg Lars , Ockert Deborah , Kohler Manfred , Kemkowski Jörg
Published: November 2012

Testicular tubular dilatation and degeneration and epididymal sperm granulomas were frequently seen in 4-week toxicity studies using different phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibitors in Wistar rats, including the prototypic PDE4 inhibitor BYK169171. To investigate the pathogenesis of testicular and epididymal lesions, a time course study with BYK169171 was conducted with sequential necropsies after 7, 14, 21, and 28 days of treatment. After 7 days, a dilatation of efferent ducts and of the initial segment of the epididymis and a subacute interstitial inflammation were seen followed by a diffuse dilatation of seminiferous tubules in the testis. Dilatation and inflammation were most pronounced after 14 days. Single animals also exhibited vascular necrosis in the inflamed interstitium. Although dilatation decreased later in the study, the incidence and severity of tubular degeneration increased from 14 days onward. Sperm granulomas developed in efferent ducts and in the caput and cauda of the epididymis after 14 days. Our results demonstrate a clear time course of PDE4 inhibition-induced lesions, with dilatation preceding sperm granuloma formation. We conclude that the most likely mechanism of toxicity is a disturbance of fluid homeostasis in efferent and epididymal ducts resulting in abnormal luminal fluid and sperm contents, epithelial damage at specific sites of the excurrent duct system, sperm leakage, and granuloma formation.
Anchoring Hepatic Gene Expression with Development of Fibrosis and Neoplasia in a Toxicant-induced Fish Model of Liver Injury
Authors: Van Wettere Arnaud J. , Law J. Mac , Hinton David E. , Kullman Seth W.
Published: November 2012

Fish have been used as laboratory models to study hepatic development and carcinogenesis but not for pathogenesis of hepatic fibrosis. In this study, a dimethylnitrosamine-induced fish model of hepatic injury was developed in Japanese medaka ( Oryzias latipes) and gene expression was anchored with the development of hepatic fibrosis and neoplasia. Exposed livers exhibited mild hepatocellular degenerative changes 2 weeks’ postexposure. Within 6 weeks, hepatic fibrosis/cirrhosis was evident with development of neoplasia by 10 weeks. Stellate cell activation and development of fibrosis was associated with upregulation of transforming growth factor beta 1 ( tgfb1), tgfb receptor 2, mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 3 ( smad3a), smad3b, beta-catenin ( ctnnb1), myc, matrix metalloproteinase ( mmp2), mmp14a, mmp14b, tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase ( timp) 2a, timp2b, timp3, collagen type I alpha 1a ( col1a1a), and col1a1b and a less pronounced increase in mmp13 and col4a1 expression. Tgfb receptor I expression was unchanged. Immunohistochemistry suggested that biliary epithelial cells and stellate cells were the main producers of TGF-β1. This study identified a group of candidate genes likely to be involved in the development of hepatic fibrosis and demonstrated that the TGF-β pathway likely plays a major role in the pathogenesis. These results support the medaka as a viable fish model of hepatic fibrosis.
The Chemopreventive Capacity of Quercetin to Induce Programmed Cell Death in Hepatocarcinogenesis
Authors: Vásquez-Garzón Verónica Rocío , Macias-Pérez José Roberto , Jiménez-García Mónica Noemí , Villegas Vanessa , Fattel-Fazenta Samia , Villa-Treviño Saúl
Published: November 2012

In this study of chemoprevention in the rat modified resistant hepatocyte model, preneoplastic cells were diminished by >60% with quercetin pretreatment compared with those rats treated with N-Diethylnitrosamine (DEN) to induce liver cancer. This decrease occurred associated with an abolished DEN-induced lipid peroxidation as well as activation of caspase 9 and increased caspase 3, as determined by increased expression of cleaved caspase 3 and 9, but not cleaved caspase 8 and increased fragmentation of Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inducing apoptosis of presumed genetically injured cells, when quercetin was administered before the initiation agent.
The City Manager’s Role in Policy-Making
Authors: Zhang Yahong
Published: November 2012

The city manager’s role in policy-making has long been recognized in the public administrationliterature. However, it remains unclear why city managers participate in policy-making at different levels. Two alternative models have been proposed in the literature: the substitution model and the collaboration model. The present study considers multiple dimensions of political leadership and advances a more comprehensive theoretical framework. It then undertakes an empirical examination, using survey data collected from city managers in Georgia. The results uncover more complicated configurations of political dynamics in local government than described by either the substitution or the collaboration model.
Comparison of responses to vasoactive drugs in human and rat cerebral arteries using myography and pressurized cerebral artery method
Authors: Grände Gustaf , Nilsson Elisabeth , Edvinsson Lars
Published: November 2012

Background

Dilatation of cranial vessels has been proposed as a part of the cascade that initiates an episode of migraine. This is based on the observation that intravenous administration of several substances with vasodilator properties can trigger migraine-like symptoms in migraineurs.

Methods

We used in vitro myography of human cerebral arteries and in vitro pressurized arteriography of rat middle cerebral artery (MCA) to evaluate the vasomotor responses of cerebral arteries to increasing concentrations of vasoactive substances used to elicit migraine-like attacks.

Results

All substances except carbachol induced a strong vasodilatory response when applied to the abluminal side of a rat MCA but negligible response when applied to the luminal side. Luminal carbachol gave a strong dilatory response but a weak response at the abluminal side. The prostaglandins PGE2 and epoprostenol constricted the rat MCA while human cerebral arteries relaxed. The pEC50 of carbachol, histamine, epoprostenol, VIP and sildenafil differed significantly between cerebral arteries from man and rat. The differences in pEC50 for SNP, αCGRP, PACAP-27 and PACAP-38 were not significant between the species. PGE2 had no noticeable effect on human arteries in vitro.

Conclusion

All tested substances with the exception of VIP and carbachol have been found to elicit migraine-like attacks in migraineurs. Since these two agents have vasodilatory effects in humans, it suggests that vasodilatation is not the only reason for eliciting a migraine-like attack in migraineurs. In addition, there are significant species differences that show the importance of performing experiments in human vessels.
Use of cannabis among 139 cluster headache sufferers
Authors: Leroux Elizabeth , Taifas Irina , Valade Dominique , Donnet Anne , Chagnon Miguel , Ducros Anne
Published: November 2012

Aims

A case report suggested the efficacy of cannabis to treat cluster headache (CH) attacks. Our aims were to study the frequency of cannabis use in CH patients, and the reported effects on attacks.

Methods

A total of 139 patients with CH attending two French headache centers filled out questionnaires.

Results

Sixty-three of the 139 patients (45.3%) had a history of cannabis use. As compared to nonusers, cannabis users were more likely to be younger ( p < 0.001), male ( p = 0.002) and tobacco smokers ( p < 0.001). Among the 27 patients (19.4% of the total cohort) who had tried cannabis to treat CH attacks, 25.9% reported some efficacy, 51.8% variable or uncertain effects, and 22.3% negative effects.

Conclusions

Cannabis use is very frequent in CH patients, but its efficacy for the treatment of the attacks is limited. Less than one third of self-reported users mention a relief of their attacks following inhalation. Cannabis should not be recommended for CH unless controlled trials with synthetic selective cannabinoids show a more convincing therapeutic benefit.
Medical Staff Involvement in Nursing Homes
Authors: Shield Renée , Rosenthal Marsha , Wetle Terrie , Tyler Denise , Clark Melissa , Intrator Orna
Published: November 2012

Medical staff (physicians, nurse practitioners, physicians’ assistants) involvement in nursing homes (NH) is limited by professional guidelines, government policies, regulations, and reimbursements, creating bureaucratic burden. The conceptual NH Medical Staff Involvement Model, based on our mixed-methods research, applies the Donabedian “structure–process–outcomes” framework to the NH, identifying measures for a coordinated research agenda. Quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews conducted with medical directors, administrators and directors of nursing, other experts, residents and family members and Minimum Data Set, the Online Certification and Reporting System and Medicare Part B claims data related to NH structure, process, and outcomes were analyzed. NH control of medical staff, or structure, affects medical staff involvement in care processes and is associated with better outcomes (e.g., symptom management, appropriate transitions, satisfaction). The model identifies measures clarifying the impact of NH medical staff involvement on care processes and resident outcomes and has strong potential to inform regulatory policies.
Human Milk Fortification with Differing Amounts of Fortifier and Its Association with Growth and Metabolic Responses in Preterm Infants
Authors: Kanmaz Hayriye Gozde , Mutlu Banu , Canpolat Fuat Emre , Erdeve Omer , Oguz Serife Suna , Uras Nurdan , Dilmen Ugur
Published: November 2012

Background:

Fortification of human milk (HM) is a common clinical practice to adapt breast milk to the nutritional needs of very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. The optimal method for HM fortification remains to be determined, and a variety of protocols are currently used in neonatal intensive care units.

Objective:

It is believed that standard fortification is insufficient to meet the needs of VLBW infants. Therefore, we designed a randomized prospective study that investigated the effects of varying levels of blind fortification on short-term growth and metabolic responses of preterm infants.

Methods:

Eligible infants were randomized into 3 groups: standard fortification (SF), moderate fortification (MF), and aggressive fortification (AF). Short-term growth, feeding intolerance, and urea, calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase levels were assessed.

Results:

There were 26, 29, and 29 infants in the SF, MF, and AF groups, respectively. The baseline characteristics of the groups were similar. Daily weight gain and length at discharge did not differ among the groups; however, head circumference was significantly higher in the MF and AF groups compared with the SF group. Urea, calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase levels were similar between the groups.

Conclusion:

We demonstrated that blind fortification of HM, even with higher amounts than recommended by manufacturers, did not cause any measured adverse effects on the metabolic response of preterm infants. Anthropometric measurements (except head circumference) were not different between the different dosages of fortification.
Beyond the Deal
Authors: Lowe Nichola J.
Published: November 2012

Industrial recruitment continues to play a significant role in the development of manufacturing industries in the U.S. South. Still, there are signs of shifting practice that not only emphasize a different set of regional advantages from earlier decades but equally help bolster those same advantages to anchor outside firms to the region. This article presents a case study of the strategic use of industrial recruitment to build out North Carolina’s biopharmaceutical manufacturing industry. This case study helps shed light on how recruitment practices can be designed and improved to support continued manufacturing job growth, but in ways that also limit the recruitment of potentially footloose establishments. As such, it presents an alternative perspective to recent studies of industrial recruitment that focus narrowly on efforts to limit or curb locational incentives for industry attraction.
Negotiating the Micro-Macro Divide
Authors: Kuhn Timothy
Published: November 2012

Scholars of organization tend to apportion organizational phenomena into two distinct levels: micro and macro. In organization studies, efforts to overcome the problems resulting from the micro-macro split focus on locating appropriate microfoundations or engaging in multilevel theorizing, but these approaches ultimately reinforce rather than transcend the divide. In response, I argue that communicative constitution of organization (CCO) theory provides thought leadership that can both reconceptualize the micro-macro relationship and generate novel theoretical directions, with specific attention to three widely employed theories of organization: the knowledge-based theory of the firm, stakeholder theory, and Carnegie School decisional theory. Conceptions of organizing and organization offered by CCO thus hold the potential to foster strengthened relationships between organizational communication and organization theory.
Organizational Resilience and Using Information and Communication Technologies to Rebuild Communication Structures
Authors: Chewning Lisa V. , Lai Chih-Hui , Doerfel Marya L.
Published: November 2012

This study employs the perspective of organizational resilience to examine how information and communication technologies (ICTs) were used by organizations to aid in their recovery after Hurricane Katrina. In-depth interviews enabled longitudinal analysis of ICT use. Results showed that organizations enacted a variety of resilient behaviors through adaptive ICT use, including information sharing, (re)connection, and resource acquisition. Findings emphasize the transition of ICT use across different stages of recovery, including an anticipated stage. Key findings advance organizational resilience theory with an additional source of resilience, external availability. Implications and contributions to the literature of ICTs in disaster contexts and organizational resilience are discussed.
Combining Mail and E-Mail Contacts to Facilitate Participation in Mixed-Mode Surveys
Authors: Israel Glenn D.
Published: November 2012

This study examines how available e-mail addresses can be incorporated into mixed-mode procedures for surveys of the public, especially client groups. Cooperative Extension Service clients provide the basis for analyzing how implementation procedures affect response rates and substantive findings. These clients form three strata based on contact information provided: postal address only, e-mail only, and both. From clients who provided mail and e-mail addresses, four experimental groups were created, including two mixed-mode groups, a mail-only group and an e-mail-only group. Using mail and e-mail addresses to implement a sequence of e-mail and postal invitations in a mixed-mode design resulted in response rates that are equivalent to those for mail-only surveys. Also, clients who provided a postal address only differed on some attributes from those in the other strata. This study demonstrates the benefit of obtaining e-mail addresses and using them in mixed-mode surveys.
Reflections on the role of science in the evolution of dimensioning and tolerancing standards
Authors: Srinivasan Vijay
Published: November 2012

Dimensioning and tolerancing standards originated about 75 years ago in the form of various national and company standards that governed engineering draughting and documentation practices. They served the purpose of communicating to manufacturers what geometric variations designers could tolerate in a product without compromising the product’s intended function. These standards have evolved over time and are by now well entrenched in the engineering profession throughout the world. For several initial decades, this evolution was driven primarily by codification of best engineering practices without the benefit of any systematic scientific treatment. This trend encountered a major hurdle in early 1980s when the emergence of computer-aided design and manufacturing systems forced a drastic reexamination of these standards with a greater emphasis on mathematical formalism. Since then, scientific principles to explain past practices and to guide future evolution have emerged, and the role of science has now become more prominent in the development of these standards. This article describes some of the key scientific research results that have already had an impact, and the future scientific trends that are likely to have an influence, on these evolving standards.
Machine tool optimization strategies for ecologic and economic efficiency
Authors: Gontarz Adam M , Hänni Florian , Weiss Lukas B , Wegener Konrad
Published: November 2012

Optimization activities in manufacturing must be addressed in the multifaceted context that combines economic, social and environmental goals. Research activities of today not only strive to cope with the legislative pressure of the Directive of the European Parliament on Energy Using Products but also strive for economic advantages for the machine tool user by investigating and applying suitable procedures and methods that help to model, forecast and reduce overall energy consumption. A key issue is the reduction of the amount of resources consumed for the same output and the increased machine tool efficiency with the help of selective methods and a minimum investment. A bottom-up approach to identify potential initial points for optimization is given in the presented research work. This article introduces a methodology for detecting and evaluating reasonable investments for retrofit solutions with different approaches. A technical measurement and optimization approach, depending on the actual circumstances, and an economic approach, that is used to detect optimization potentials with the economic evaluation of selected solutions are proposed in this article.
A Dynamic Perspective on Subsidiary Strategy in China
Authors: De Beule Filip
Published: November 2012

This research is about multinational enterprises and their subsidiaries abroad. The specific focus of the research is on the foreign subsidiaries’ local embeddedness, global integration and multinational networks. As these linkages vary among subsidiaries and across time, the focal interest of this study is the processes of subsidiary strategic evolution. On the basis of a longitudinal survey of subsidiaries in China, the results show that most subsidiaries in China start as a quiescent-type of firm, which is clearly a stepping stone towards other more strategic roles as quiescent subsidiaries move out of this category towards autonomous-type or confederate-type firms and eventually active-type subsidiaries. The most prevalent trajectory of strategic evolution by multinational subsidiaries in China is by increasing the liaisons in the multinational network before gaining more local embeddedness towards a more globally active role for the foreign subsidiary. This is in contrast to previous research which found strategic evolution towards the quiescent-type firm in more developed economies. It is suggested that this contradictory result is linked to the emerging economy status of China, which still allows for much strategic progress to be made by foreign affiliates.
Reflexivity and the Capacity to Think
Authors: Doyle Sarah
Published: November 2012

Reflexivity is fundamental to qualitative health research, yet notoriously difficult to unpack. Drawing on Wilfred Bion’s work on the development of the capacity to think and to learn, I show how the capacity to think is an impermanent and fallible capacity, with the potential to materialize or evaporate at any number of different points. I use this conceptualization together with examples from published interview data to illustrate the difficulties for researchers attempting to sustain a reflexive approach, and to direct attention toward the possibilities for recovering and supporting the capacity to think. I counter some of the criticisms suggesting that reflexivity can be self-indulgent, and suggest instead that self-indulgence constitutes a failure of reflexivity. In the concluding discussions I acknowledge tensions accompanying the use of psychoanalytic theories for research purposes, and point to emerging psychosocial approaches as one way of negotiating these.
Primary brachial plexus neoplasia in cats
Authors: Hanna Fikry Younan
Published: November 2012

Conditions affecting the brachial plexus and its branches can cause lameness and/or neurological deficits. There are few reports of schwannomas in cats. In reported cases, the tumours arose from the dermis or subcutis of the limbs, head and neck and thorax, but there are no reports of primary tumours that arose from the brachial plexus itself. The purpose of this study is to present the clinical, radiological, ultrasonographical and pathological findings of primary brachial plexus tumour in three cats.
Becoming more conservative? Contrasting gender practices of two generations of Chechen women in Europe
Authors: Szczepanikova Alice
Published: November 2012

The article analyses the process of transformation and reinvention of patriarchal gender order at times of radical changes caused by violent conflict and life in emigration. The case study draws a comparison between younger and older generations of Chechen women in Austria, Poland and Germany and their radically different gender practices. The analysis shows that the turn towards more conservative gender relations, which can be observed among the younger generation, cannot be explained by a reference to the Chechen culture as inherently patriarchal. Nor can it be ascribed solely to the insufficient reception and the lack of recognition experienced by refugees in the receiving countries. Rather, it is an outcome of women’s different conditions of socialization that have affected their hierarchy of values and continue to exert significant influence on their adaptation strategies in exile; most notably, on how the women perceive and make use of the opportunity structures in the receiving contexts.
Engendering transnational space: Migrant mothers as cultural currency speculators
Authors: Erel Umut
Published: November 2012

This article opens new perspectives for the study of gender, transnationalism and cultural capital by exploring the role of gender in the formation of cultural capital in transnational contexts, focusing on how migrant mothers’ strategically deploy cultural resources from one national setting in another. Drawing on a study of middle-class European mothers in London, it shows how they mobilize transnational cultural resources to compensate for shortcomings of economic, national and local cultural capital, as well as accruing added value to their children’s education. Indeed, some mothers engage in transnational cultural currency speculation of cultural resources by converting the educational investment in their children into educational credentials in the national setting where they expect the highest returns. Bourdieu’s notions of cultural capital and field help explore the relationship between national and transnational cultural capital in the European middle-class migrants’ emergent mobility practices.
Child health care utilisation in families with young or single mothers in a Swedish county
Authors: Wallby Thomas , Modin Bitte , Hjern Anders
Published: November 2012

Young age and lone parenthood are risk factors for impaired health among mothers and their children. Due to the higher risks of negative influences on physical and mental health, young and single mothers should be of special concern to the Child Health Services (CHS). In the present study, we investigated consumption patterns of child health care services among young and single mothers in Uppsala County, Sweden to study whether they are reached by the universal CHS program and if selective or indicative measures were administered in daily CHS practice. Register data on CHS contacts and socio-demographic indicators were collected for 10692 infants, born in 1998-2006. Results show small differences in contact pattern and immunization status, between children of young versus older, and single versus cohabiting mothers. However, both young (RR 0.64) and single (RR 0.80) mothers had significantly lower rates of participation in parental group. The CHS were consequently successful in implementing the universal preventive child health programme for all families, including families with young or single mothers. There was no indication, however, of an established selective preventive strategy aimed at these high risk families. Programs for strengthening the support provided to vulnerable families by the CHS are needed.
Family factors associated with children's handwashing hygiene behavior
Authors: Song In Han , Kim Sang-A , Park Woong-Sub
Published: November 2012

Despite the importance of children’s hand hygiene and family influence on children’s behaviors, few studies have been dedicated to identifying family factors affecting handwashing practice. This study investigated the entire group of sixth-grade students (N = 2323) and their parents (N = 2089) at 11 elementary schools randomly selected from the Seoul Metropolitan Area, Korea. The results show that parents’ handwashing practice, parent and child bonding, and shared time have a significant correlation with children’s hand hygiene practice. The thoroughness of hand cleansing is more likely to be associated with health education, parents’ practice of proper handwashing, greater parent–child bonding, and a greater amount of shared time with parents. Parent–child bonding and shared time are crucial in promoting children’s hand hygiene. These results imply that public health policies need to be targeted at not only providing health education but at increasing parent–child bonding and shared time in order to promote children’s health more effectively.