bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uniaxial mechanical tension promoted osteogenic differentiation of rat tendon‐derived stem cells (rTDSCs) via the Wnt5a‐RhoA pathway
Authors: Shi Yu , Fu Yujie , Tong Wenxue , Geng Yiyun , Lui Pauline Po Yee , Tang Tingting , Zhang Xiaoling , Dai Kerong
Published: May 2012

Chronic tendinopathy is a tendon disorder that is common in athletes and individuals whose tendons are subjected to repetitive strain injuries. The presence of ossification worsened the clinical manifestation of the disorder. The change of tendon loading due to mechanical overload, compression, or disuse have been implicated as the possible etiologies, but the pathological mechanisms of tendinopathy remain unclear. In this study, we demonstrated that ossification in tendon tissue might be due to the osteogenesis of tendon‐derived stem cells (TDSCs) induced by uniaxial mechanical tension (UMT) which mimics the mechanical loading in tendon. Rat TDSCs (rTDSCs) could be induced to differentiate into osteogenic lineage after treatment with 2% elongation UMT for 3 days as shown by the increased expression Runx2 mRNA and protein, Alpl mRNA, collagen type 1 alpha 1 (Col1a1) mRNA, ALP activity, and ALP cytochemical staining. RhoA, an osteogenesis regulator, was activated in rTDSCs upon UMT stimulation. Blockage of RhoA activity in rTDSCs by C3 toxin or ROCK activity, a downstream target of RhoA, by Y‐27632 inhibited UMT‐induced osteogenesis in rTDSCs. UMT up‐regulated the mRNA expression of Wnt5a but not the other non‐canonical Wnts. The inhibition of Wnt5a expression by siRNA abolished UMT‐induced Runx2 mRNA expression and RhoA activation in rTDSCs and the inhibition of Runx2 expression could be rescued by addition of LPA, a RhoA activator. In conclusion, our results showed that UMT induced osteogenic differentiation of rTDSCs via the Wnt5a‐RhoA pathway, which might contribute to ectopic ossification in tendon tissue due to mechanical loading. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 3133–3142, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impaired biomechanical properties correlate with neoangiogenesis as well as VEGF and MMP‐3 expression during rat patellar tendon healing
Authors: Sahin Hacer , Tholema Nancy , Petersen Wolf , Raschke Michael J. , Stange Richard
Published: May 2012

Recent studies reveal an important role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐induced angiogenesis in degenerative tendon diseases. The way how VEGF influences mechanical properties of the tendons is not well understood yet. We here hypothesized that tendinopathy results in a hypoxia‐mediated stimulation of VEGF and that the mechanical stability of the tendon is impaired in an angiogenic process by VEGF‐induced matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). A modified in situ freezing model of patellar tendon was used to create a tendinopathy. 0, 7, 14, and 28 days post‐surgical animals were sacrificed and patellar tendons were dissected for biomechanical and immunohistochemical analysis. Native tendons were used as controls. Immunohistochemical staining revealed a peak in HIF‐1α stabilization immediately after surgery. Both VEGF and MMP‐3 were increased 7 days after surgery. Angiogenesis was also abundant 7 days after surgery. In contrast, biomechanical stability of the tendon was decreased 7 days after surgery. The current results reveal a time‐dependent correlation of HIF‐1/VEGF‐induced and MMP‐3‐supported angiogenesis with decreased biomechanical properties during tendon healing. The therapeutical modulation of neoangiogenesis by influencing the level of VEGF and MMP‐3 might be a promising target for new approaches in degenerative tendon diseases. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:1952–1957, 2012
E‐cadherin upregulates expression of matrix macromolecules aggrecan and collagen II in the intervertebral disc cells through activation of the intracellular BMP‐Smad1/5 pathway
Authors: Wang Zili , Kim Sung Soo , Hutton William C. , Yoon Sangwook Tim
Published: May 2012

E‐cadherin is a transmembrane protein that mediates cell–cell adhesion and cell–matrix interaction. Although the E‐cadherin has been shown to mediate a broad‐ranging cellular signals and functions, its effects on matrix metabolism of intervertebral discs (IVDs) are unknown. In this study, we investigated the effects of E‐cadherin on IVD matrix synthesis using pharmacological and molecular biology methods. We showed that high levels of the E‐cadherin are expressed in rabbits IVD cells. Our study indicates that the ectopic expression of E‐cadherin can stimulate matrix anabolism of the IVD cells, which was evidenced by increased expression of the matrix macromolecules aggrecan and collagen II. We found that E‐cadherin induces the expression of BMP‐4 and BMP‐7 genes and enhances Smad1/5 phosphorylation. Blocking BMP activity uses noggin suppressed E‐cadherin‐mediated upregulation of aggrecan and collagen II. Moreover, inhibition of Smad1/5 phosphorylation by dorsomorphin significantly repressed the E‐cadherin induced expression of aggrecan and collagen II at the both mRNA and protein levels. Together this study demonstrates that the E‐cadherin stimulates the synthesis of IVD matrix macromolecules aggrecan and collagen II through the induction of BMP genes and enhancement of the Smad1/5 phosphorylation. Thus E‐cadherin may have value in the treatment of degenerated discs. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:1746–1752, 2012
Growth, institutions, and entrepreneurial finance in China: a survey
Authors: Milana Carlo , Wu Harry X.
Published: May 2012

Recent studies confirm that financial support for innovative entrepreneurial firms is important for sustainable productivity growth in China and for a rebalanced global economy.
Optimism predicts resilience in repatriated prisoners of war: A 37‐year longitudinal study
Authors: Segovia Francine , Moore Jeffrey L. , Linnville Steven E. , Hoyt Robert E. , Hain Robert E.
Published: May 2012

Resilience, exhibiting intact psychological functioning despite exposure to trauma, is one perspective as to why some people who are exposed to trauma do not develop symptoms. This study examines the prisoner of war experience to expand our understanding of this phenomenon in extreme cases of trauma such as prolonged captivity, malnourishment, and physical and psychological torture. The study examined the United States' longest detained American prisoners of war, those held in Vietnam in the 1960s through early 1970s. A logistic regression analysis using resilience, defined as never receiving any psychiatric diagnosis over a 37‐year follow‐up period, as the outcome was performed (n = 224 with complete data). Six variables showing at least small effects emerged: officer/enlisted status, age at time of capture, length of solitary confinement, low antisocial/psychopathic personality traits, low posttraumatic stress symptoms following repatriation, and optimism. Odds ratios (ORs) and confidence intervals (CIs) confirmed the significance and relative strength of these variables, with a range from OR = 0.54, 95% CI [0.13, 2.29] to OR = 1.11, 95% CI [1.04, 1.17]. When all variables were examined continuously and categorically, dispositional optimism was the strongest variable, accounting for 17%, continuously, and 14%, categorically. We discuss optimism as a protective factor for confronting trauma and the possibility of training to increase it.
Review and assessment of interpolatory model order reduction methods for frequency response structural dynamics and acoustics problems
Authors: Hetmaniuk U. , Tezaur R. , Farhat C.
Published: May 2012

Frequency sweeps in structural dynamics, acoustics, and vibro‐acoustics require evaluating frequency response functions for a large number of frequencies. The brute force approach for performing these sweeps leads to the solution of a large number of large‐scale systems of equations. Several methods have been developed for alleviating this computational burden by approximating the frequency response functions. Among these, interpolatory model order reduction methods are perhaps the most successful. This paper reviews this family of approximation methods with particular attention to their applicability to specific classes of frequency response problems and their performance. It also includes novel aspects pertaining to the iterative solution of large‐scale systems of equations in the context of model order reduction and frequency sweeps. All reviewed computational methods are illustrated with realistic, large‐scale structural dynamic, acoustic, and vibro‐acoustic analyses in wide frequency bands. These highlight both the potential of these methods for reducing CPU time and their limitations. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Absent ductus venosus – outcomes and implications from a tertiary centre
Authors: Thomas Joseph T. , Petersen Scott , Cincotta Robert , Lee‐Tannock Alison , Gardener Glenn
Published: May 2012

Background

Absent ductus venosus (ADV) has been reported as case reports and series with suggestions that the outcome is variable. The prognosis depended on the associated abnormalities with ADV and the type of umbilical venous drainage.

Methodology

We performed a retrospective audit of all cases with ADV in our centre from 2004 to 2008 and prospectively collected cases from 2008 and analysed the associations and outcomes. To our 22 cases, we added 67 cases extracted from all the reported case series with isolated ADV in the English literature and analysed them together.

Results

Eight of the 22 cases in our centre had isolated ADV and all eight fetuses were live born with no adverse outcomes. This was similar when compiled with the 67 extracted cases. Of the 89 cases; 19 with isolated ADV had 100% survival. This was independent of the umbilical venous drainage in contrast to previous reports. The overall survival is 57% and 45% when there is an associated abnormality in the fetus.

Conclusion

Isolated ADV has a favourable outcome regardless of the umbilical venous drainage. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Leicester Foundation Group: successful implementation of structured education for newly‐diagnosed type 1 diabetes
Authors: Berkeley Hannah , Phillips Sarah , Fairfield Jane , Pidcock Rebecca , Henson Joseph , Troughton Jacqui
Published: May 2012

In the UK there are currently no national structured education programmes for people newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. In Leicester we developed a programme for people to attend within six months of diagnosis with the aim of increasing patients' self‐efficacy in managing their diabetes.

Forty‐two people attended the group over a 12‐month period. The participants completed a questionnaire based on a 10‐point Likert scale to assess confidence to participate in daily activities while managing their insulin and blood glucose levels, both at baseline and after the structured education intervention.

Participants self‐reported improved confidence levels aligned to different situations, including the ability to adjust insulin accordingly and achieve target blood glucose (4–7mmol/L). Scores increased significantly in a number of scenarios, e.g. confidence to do a sporting activity 8(6.5–8.2) to 9(8.0–9.0), confidence to adjust insulin for the activity 5(3.8–6.2) to 8(6.9–8.3), and confidence that glucose levels will be in target after insulin adjustment 4(3.4–5.6) to 8(6.6–8.0).

Attendance at a structured group education programme can significantly increase individuals' self‐efficacy to manage type 1 diabetes. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons.
Polymer brushes here, there, and everywhere: Recent advances in their practical applications and emerging opportunities in multiple research fields
Authors: Azzaroni Omar
Published: May 2012

Bottom‐up surface processing with well‐defined polymeric structures becomes increasingly important in many current technologies. Polymer brushes, that is, assemblies of macromolecules tethered at one end to a substrate, provide an exemplary system of materials capable of achieving such a goal. While the focus in the past decades has been mostly on their synthetic aspects and the in‐depth study of their interesting properties, from several years now the core area of research has already started to shift towards specific practical applications. Ample functional versatility and relative ease of preparation are special strengths of polymer brushes, lending them a strong interdisciplinary character. To this end, this work is entirely dedicated to bringing together the latest research on applications of polymer brushes in multiple research fields. The aim of this review are twofold: first, to give a critical discussion of the current status of development of application‐oriented research on polymer brushes, and second, to inform the reader as to what can be done with polymer brushes in multiple research fields. It is therefore hoped that the juxtaposition of perspectives from different disciplines in one place will stimulate and contribute to the ongoing process of cross‐fertilization that is driving this fascinating and emerging area of polymer science. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Quality and Outcomes Framework indicators for osteoporosis
Authors: Byrne Paul
Published: May 2012

The new Quality and Outcomes Framework indicators for osteoporosis came into practice on 1 April 2012. Here, the author introduces the new indicators, discusses their implications for practice and offers his top tips for managing osteoporosis in primary care.
Allergic rhinitis: guide to diagnosis, allergen avoidance and treatment
Authors: Farooque Sophie
Published: May 2012

Allergic rhinitis can lead to reduced quality of life and productivity at work and school and is a major risk factor for poor asthma control. Our Drug review discusses diagnosis, allergen avoidance strategies and the available drug treatments, followed by a review of the prescription data and sources of further information.
Diameter‐ and density‐controlled synthesis of well‐aligned ZnO nanowire arrays and their properties using a thermal evaporation technique
Authors: Van Khai Tran , Maneeratanasarn Prachuporn , Choi Bong Geun , Ham Heon , Shim Kwang Bo
Published: May 2012

Vertically well‐aligned ZnO nanowire (NW) arrays were synthesized directly on Si(100) substrate without any metal catalysts by conventional thermal evaporation. The effects of the substrate positions on the structures and properties of ZnO NW arrays were primarily discussed. The orientation and morphology of the resultant NWs were analyzed by using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The experimental results showed that the density and diameter of the ZnO NWs can be effectively controlled by changing the substrate position. The photoluminescence (PL) characteristics of the grown ZnO NW arrays show a sharp and strong ultraviolet (UV) emission at 380 nm and a very weak green emission at around 490 nm, indicating that the as‐synthesized NWs have outstanding optical properties with good crystalline quality and may have excellent application potential in optoelectronic devices.
Dielectric function and refractive index of GaBix As1‐x (x = 0.035, 0.052, 0.075)
Authors: Tumėnas Saulius , Karpus Vytautas , Bertulis Klemensas , Arwin Hans
Published: May 2012

MBE grown GaBiAs epitaxial layers with Bi content of 3.5%, 5.2%, and 7.5%, sandwiched between GaAs, have been investigated by spectroscopic ellipsometry in the infrared and absorption threshold spectral regions. The real and imaginary parts of the dielectric function of GaBiAs indicate bandgap Eg and spin‐orbit splitting Δ0+ values close to literature data. The refractive index of GaBiAs in the IR region 0.2–0.8 eV exceeds that of GaAs by ca. 0.8%, 2.3%, and 3.6%, for Bi content 3.5 %, 5.2%, and 7.5%, respectively (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
MOCVD growth and characterization of near‐surface InGaN/GaN single quantum wells for non‐radiative coupling of optical excitations
Authors: Svensk O. , Suihkonen S. , Sintonen S. , Kopylov O. , Shirazi R. , Lipsanen H. , Sopanen M. , Kardynal B. E.
Published: May 2012

We report a study of the structural and optical properties of near‐surface InGaN/GaN single quantum wells, grown by metalorganic chemical vapour deposition, as a function of underneath layer structure and GaN capping thickness. Special attention is paid to characterize properties which are important for non‐radiative coupling applications, such as emission intensity at peak wavelength and surface morphology. We observe that utilization of indium containing underneath structures results in high optical quality while increasing surface roughness. Optical performance can be further improved with InGaN/GaN superlattice structures instead of a single InGaN underneath layer. Time‐resolved photoluminescence measurements of samples with different GaN capping thicknesses show that room temperature photoluminescence decay time increases with decreasing GaN capping thickness until surface states related non‐radiative recombination processes start to play a significant role at very small capping thicknesses (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Assessment of the illumination dependency of Al2O3 and SiO2 rear‐passivated p‐type silicon solar cells
Authors: Vermang Bart , Cornagliotti Emanuele , Prajapati Victor , John Joachim , Poortmans Jef , Mertens Robert
Published: May 2012

This Letter discusses an important difference between positively charged SiO2 and negatively charged Al2O3 rear‐passivated p‐type Si solar cells: their illumination level dependency. For positively charged SiO2 rear‐passivated p‐type Si solar cells, a loss in short circuit current (JSC) and open circuit voltage (VOC) as a function of illumination level is mainly caused by parasitic shunting and a decrease in surface recombination, respectively. Hence, the relative loss in cell conversion efficiency, JSC, and VOC as a function of the illumination level for SiO2 compared to Al2O3 rear‐passivated p‐type Si solar cells has been measured and discussed. Subsequently, an exponential decay fit of the loss in cell efficiency is applied in order to estimate the difference in the energy output for both cell types in three different territories: Belgium (EU), Seattle and Austin (US). The observed trends in the difference in energy output between both cells, as a function of time of the year and region, are as expected and discussed. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
S‐Allylcysteine, a Garlic Compound, Increases ABCA1 Expression in Human THP‐1 Macrophages
Authors: Malekpour‐Dehkordi Zahra , Javadi Ebrahim , Doosti Mahmood , Paknejad Maliheh , Nourbakhsh Mitra , Yassa Narguess , Gerayesh‐Nejad Siavash , Heshmat Ramin
Published: May 2012

ATP‐binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) is a key mediator of cholesterol efflux to apoA‐I in lipid‐loaded macrophages, which is the first step of reverse cholesterol transport in vivo and a critical step in preventing atherosclerosis. Enhanced ABCA1 expression may inhibit foam cell formation and consequently reduce atherogenic risk. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of S‐allylcysteine (SAC), the most abundant organosulfur compound in aged garlic extract, on the expression of ATP‐binding cassette transporter A1 in human THP‐1 macrophages. The human monocyte THP‐1 cells were differentiated to macrophage cells in the presence of phorbol 12‐myristate13‐acetate (PMA). Macrophage cells were then treated with different concentrations (10, 20 and 40 mM) of SAC for 24 h. Total RNA of treated macrophages was extracted and analyzed with real‐time RT‐PCR. ABCA1 protein expression was also analyzed with western blotting. Results showed that SAC increased the ABCA1 mRNA (1.82‐, 2.07‐ and 2.23‐fold) and protein (1.37‐, 1.55‐ and 2.08‐fold) expression in macrophage THP‐1 cells compared with control (untreated cells). Results suggested that SAC can increase ABCA1 expression in macrophages and may be beneficial in promoting reverse cholesterol efflux. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ferulate Protects the Epithelial Barrier by Maintaining Tight Junction Protein Expression and Preventing Apoptosis in Tert‐Butyl Hydroperoxide‐Induced Caco‐2 Cells
Authors: Kim Hyun Jung , Lee Eun Kyeong , Park Min Hi , Ha Young Mi , Jung Kyung Jin , Kim Min‐Sun , Kim Mi Kyung , Yu Byung Pal , Chung Hae Young
Published: May 2012

Epithelial barrier function is determined by both transcellular and paracellular permeability, the latter of which is mainly influenced by tight junctions (TJs) and apoptotic leaks within the epithelium. We investigated the protective effects of ferulate on epithelial barrier integrity by examining permeability, TJ protein expression, and apoptosis in Caco‐2 cells treated with tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (t‐BHP), a strong reactive species inducer. Caco‐2 cells pretreated with ferulate (5 or 15 μM) were exposed to t‐BHP (100 μM), and ferulate suppressed the t‐BHP‐mediated increases in reactive species and epithelial permeability in Caco‐2 cells. Moreover, ferulate inhibited epithelial cell leakage induced by t‐BHP, which was accompanied by decreased expression of the TJ proteins zonula occludens‐1 and occludin. In addition, pretreatment with ferulate markedly protected cells against t‐BHP‐induced apoptosis, as evidenced by decreased nuclear condensation, cytochrome c release, and caspase‐3 cleavage and an increased Bax/Bcl‐2 ratio. These results suggest that ferulate protects the epithelial barrier of Caco‐2 cells against oxidative stress, which results in increased epithelial permeability, decreased TJ protein expression, and increased apoptosis. The most significant finding of our study is the demonstration of protective, ferulate‐mediated antioxidant effects on barrier integrity, with a particular focus on intracellular molecular mechanisms. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
DYNAMICS OF IN‐STREAM WOOD AND ITS IMPORTANCE AS FISH HABITAT IN A LARGE TROPICAL FLOODPLAIN RIVER
Authors: Pettit N. E. , Warfe D. M. , Kennard M. J. , Pusey B. J. , Davies P. M. , Douglas M. M.
Published: May 2012

The recruitment of wood from the riparian zone to rivers and streams provides a complex habitat for aquatic organisms and can influence both aquatic biodiversity and ecosystem function. The Daly River in the wet–dry tropics of northern Australia is a highly seasonal, perennially flowing sand‐bed river where surveys of river wood aggregations at the reach scale (~2 km) in 2008 and 2009 recorded densities of 37–78 km−1 and identified distinct types of river wood aggregations: key pieces, standing trees, fallen trees, wrack and single pieces. After larger than average flows in the 2008/2009 wet season, between 46% and 51% of the surveyed river wood had moved. The distribution of wood age classes indicated continual recruitment and slow turnover of wood within the river. Surveys of fish and habitat characteristics at the mesohabitat scale (~100 m) showed fish species richness; diversity and fish abundance were not correlated to the proportion of wood present. Fish assemblage structure was associated with wood cover as well as other environmental variables such as stream width and depth. The importance of in‐stream wood also varied for different species and age classes of fish. This study documents the dynamic nature of river wood aggregations and their complex and variable distribution and suggests their importance as fish habitat in this tropical river. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin on phytosterol biotransformation by different strains of Mycobacterium neoaurum
Authors: Shen Yan-Bing , Wang Min , Li Hua-Nan , Wang Yi-Bo , Luo Jian-Mei
Published: May 2012

Cyclodextrins (CDs) can improve productivity in the biotransformation of steroids by increasing conversion rate, conversion ratio, or substrate concentration. However, little is known of the proportion of products formed by multi-catabolic enzymes, e.g., via sterol side chain cleavage. Using three strains with different androst-1,4-diene-3,17-dione (ADD) to androst-4-ene-3,17-dione (AD) ratios, Mycobacterium neoaurum TCCC 11028 (MNR), M. neoaurum TCCC 11028 M1 (MNR M1), and M. neoaurum TCCC 11028 M3 (MNR M3), we found that hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) can appreciably increase the ratio of ADD to AD, the reaction rate, and the molar conversion. In the presence of HP-β-CD, conversion of 0.5 g/L of phytosterol (PS) was 2.4, 2.4, and 2.3 times higher in the MNR, MNR M1, and MNR M3 systems, respectively, than in the controls. The ADD proportion increased by 38.4, 61.5, and 5.9 % compared with the control experiment, which resulted in a strong shift in the ADD/AD ratio in the ADD direction. Our results imply that the three PS-biotransforming strains cause efficient side chain degradation of PS, and the increased conversion of PS when using HP-β-CD may be associated with the higher PS concentration in each case. A similar solubilizing effect may not induce a prominent influence on the ADD/AD ratio. However, the different activities of the Δ1-dehydrogenase of PS-biotransforming strains result in different incremental percentage yields of ADD and ADD/AD ratio in the presence of HP-β-CD.
Instantaneous energy and enstrophy variations in Euler-alpha point vortices via triple collapse
Authors: Sakajo Takashi
Published: May 2012

It has been pointed out that the anomalous enstrophy dissipation in non-smooth weak solutions of the two-dimensional Euler equations has a clue to the emergence of the inertial range in the energy density spectrum of two-dimensional turbulence corresponding to the enstrophy cascade as the viscosity coefficient tends to zero. However, it is uncertain how non-smooth weak solutions can dissipate the enstrophy. In the present paper, we construct a weak solution of the two-dimensional Euler equations from that of the Euler-$\ensuremath{\alpha} $equations proposed by Holm, Marsden & Ratiu (Phys. Rev. Lett., vol. 80, 1998, pp. 4173–4176) by taking the limit of$\ensuremath{\alpha} \ensuremath{\rightarrow} 0$. To accomplish this task, we introduce the$\ensuremath{\alpha} $-point-vortex ($\ensuremath{\alpha} \mathrm{PV} $) system, whose evolution corresponds to a unique global weak solution of the two-dimensional Euler-$\ensuremath{\alpha} $equations in the sense of distributions (Oliver & Shkoller,Commun. Part. Diff. Equ., vol. 26, 2001, pp. 295–314). Since the$\ensuremath{\alpha} \mathrm{PV} $system is a formal regularization of the point-vortex system and it is known that, under a certain special condition, three point vortices collapse self-similarly in finite time (Kimura,J. Phys. Soc. Japan, vol. 56, 1987, pp. 2024–2030), we expect that the evolution of three$\ensuremath{\alpha} $-point vortices for the same condition converges to a singular weak solution of the Euler-$\ensuremath{\alpha} $equations that is close to the triple collapse as$\ensuremath{\alpha} \ensuremath{\rightarrow} 0$, which is examined in the paper. As a result, we find that the three$\ensuremath{\alpha} $-point vortices collapse to a point and then expand to infinity self-similarly beyond the critical time in the limit. We also show that the Hamiltonian energy and a kinematic energy acquire a finite jump discontinuity at the critical time, but the energy dissipation rate converges to zero in the sense of distributions. On the other hand, an enstrophy variation converges to the$\delta $measure with a negative mass, which indicates that the enstrophy dissipates in the distributional sense via the self-similar triple collapse. Moreover, even if the special condition is perturbed, we can confirm numerically the convergence to the singular self-similar evolution with the enstrophy dissipation. This indicates that the self-similar triple collapse is a robust mechanism of the anomalous enstrophy dissipation in the sense that it is observed for a certain range of the parameter region.
The Influence of Federal Spending on Presidential Elections
Authors: KRINER DOUGLAS L. , REEVES ANDREW
Published: May 2012

Do voters reward presidents for increased federal spending in their local constituencies? Previous research on the electoral consequences of federal spending has focused almost exclusively on Congress, mostly with null results. However, in a county- and individual-level study of presidential elections from 1988 to 2008, we present evidence that voters reward incumbent presidents (or their party's nominee) for increased federal spending in their communities. This relationship is stronger in battleground states. Furthermore, we show that federal grants are an electoral currency whose value depends on both the clarity of partisan responsibility for its provision and the characteristics of the recipients. Presidents enjoy increased support from spending in counties represented by co-partisan members of Congress. At the individual level, we also find that ideology conditions the response of constituents to spending; liberal and moderate voters reward presidents for federal spending at higher levels than conservatives. Our results suggest that, although voters may claim to favor deficit reduction, presidents who deliver such benefits are rewarded at the ballot box.
The prognostic significance of subsyndromal symptoms emerging after remission of late-life depression
Authors: Kiosses D. N. , Alexopoulos G. S.
Published: May 2012

Background

Attainment of remission is viewed as the optimal outcome of acute antidepressant treatment. However, some patients experience subsyndromal symptoms after they achieve remission. This study examines the prognostic significance of subsyndromal symptoms occurring during the first 6 months after remission of late-life depression.

Method

Older (age 60–89 years) in-patients and out-patients with unipolar major depression were followed until remission (asymptomatic or almost asymptomatic for 3 consecutive weeks). Two hundred and forty-two achieved remission after uncontrolled antidepressant treatment. This analysis focused on remitted patients who had follow-up data over a 2.5-year period (n = 185).

Results

Approximately 18% of patients relapsed. Of the remainder (n = 152), 42.8% had subsyndromal depressive symptoms during the 6 months following remission. Cox's proportional survival analysis demonstrated that longer duration of subsyndromal symptoms [number of weeks with the Longitudinal Follow-up Examination (LIFE) Psychiatric Status Rating Scale (PSR) score of 3 or 4] in the first 6 months after remission was significantly associated with shorter time to recurrence and higher recurrence rate [hazard ratio (HR) 1.16, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.08–1.24]. Based on our analysis, patients with 0, 4, 8 and 12 weeks of subsyndromal symptoms in the first 6 months after remission have estimated recurrence rates of 28, 45, 66 and 86% respectively during the ensuing 2 years.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the clinical importance of subsyndromal symptoms occurring after remission in late-life depression. They also argue that studies of geriatric depression may complement the definition of remission with information on subsyndromal symptoms occurring after the initial asymptomatic period.
Adverse childhood experiences in relation to mood and anxiety disorders in a population-based sample of active military personnel
Authors: Sareen J. , Henriksen C. A. , Bolton S.-L. , Afifi T. O. , Stein M. B. , Asmundson G. J. G.
Published: May 2012

Background

Although it has been posited that exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) increases vulnerability to deployment stress, previous literature in this area has demonstrated conflicting results. Using a cross-sectional population-based sample of active military personnel, the present study examined the relationship between ACEs, deployment related stressors and mood and anxiety disorders.

Method

Data were analyzed from the 2002 Canadian Community Health Survey – Canadian Forces Supplement (CCHS-CFS;n = 8340, age 18–54 years, response rate 81%). The following ACEs were self-reported retrospectively: childhood physical abuse, childhood sexual abuse, economic deprivation, exposure to domestic violence, parental divorce/separation, parental substance abuse problems, hospitalization as a child, and apprehension by a child protection service. DSM-IV mood and anxiety disorders [major depressive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic attacks/disorder and social phobia] were assessed using the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI).

Results

Even after adjusting for the effects of deployment-related traumatic exposures (DRTEs), exposure to ACEs was significantly associated with past-year mood or anxiety disorder among men [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.34, 99% confidence interval (CI) 1.03–1.73,p < 0.01] and women [aOR 1.37, 99% CI 1.00–1.89,p = 0.01]. Participants exposed to both ACEs and DRTEs had the highest prevalence of past-year mood or anxiety disorder in comparison to those who were exposed to either ACEs alone, DRTEs alone, or no exposure.

Conclusions

ACEs are associated with several mood and anxiety disorders among active military personnel. Intervention strategies to prevent mental health problems should consider the utility of targeting soldiers with exposure to ACEs.
Poor attention rather than hyperactivity/impulsivity predicts academic achievement in very preterm and full-term adolescents
Authors: Jaekel J. , Wolke D. , Bartmann P.
Published: May 2012

Background

Very preterm (VP) children are at particular risk for attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) of the inattentive subtype. It is unknown whether the neurodevelopmental pathways to academic underachievement are the same as in the general population. This study investigated whether middle childhood attention or hyperactivity/impulsivity problems are better predictors of VP adolescents' academic achievement.

Method

In a geographically defined prospective whole-population sample of VP (<32 weeks gestation) and/or very low birth weight (<1500 g birth weight) (VLBW/VP; n = 281) and full-term control children (n = 286) in South Germany, ADHD subtypes were assessed at 6 years 3 months and 8 years 5 months using multiple data sources. Academic achievement was assessed at 13 years of age.

Results

Compared with full-term controls, VLBW/VP children were at higher risk for ADHD inattentive subtype [6 years 3 months: odds ratio (OR) 2.8, p < 0.001; 8 years 5 months: OR 1.7, p = 0.020] but not for ADHD hyperactive-impulsive subtype (6 years 3 months: OR 1.4, p = 0.396; 8 years 5 months: OR 0.9, p = 0.820). Childhood attention measures predicted academic achievement in VLBW/VP and also full-term adolescents, whereas hyperactive/impulsive behaviour did not.

Conclusions

Attention is an important prerequisite for learning and predicts long-term academic underachievement. As ADHD inattentive subtype and cognitive impairments are frequent in VLBW/VP children, their study may help to identify the neurofunctional pathways from early brain development and dysfunction to attention problems and academic underachievement.
The structure of common and uncommon mental disorders
Authors: Forbush K. T. , Watson D.
Published: May 2012

Background

Co-morbidity patterns in epidemiological studies of mental illness consistently demonstrate that a latent internalizing factor accounts for co-morbidity patterns among unipolar mood and anxiety disorders, whereas a latent externalizing factor underlies the covariation of substance-use disorders and antisocial behaviors. However, this structure needs to be extended to include a broader range of disorders.

Method

Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were used to examine the structure of co-morbidity using data from the Collaborative Psychiatric Epidemiological Surveys (n = 16 233).

Results

In the best-fitting model, eating and bipolar disorders formed subfactors within internalizing, impulse control disorders were indicators of externalizing, and factor-analytically derived personality disorder scales split between internalizing and externalizing.

Conclusions

This was the first large-scale nationally representative study that has included uncommon mental disorders with sufficient power to examine their fit within a structural model of psychopathology. The results of this study have important implications for conceptualizing myriad mental disorders.
Association between urine cotinine levels, continuous performance test variables, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and learning disability symptoms in school-aged children
Authors: Cho S.-C. , Hong Y.-C. , Kim J.-W. , Park S. , Park M.-H. , Hur J. , Park E.-J. , Hong S.-B. , Lee J.-H. , Shin M.-S. , Kim B.-N. , Yoo H.-J. , Cho I.-H. , Bhang S.-Y. , Han S.-K.
Published: May 2012

Background

We examined the cross-sectional relationship between environmental tobacco smoke exposure, continuous performance test (CPT) measures, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or learning disability symptoms in school-aged children.

Method

In total, 989 children (526 boys, mean age 9.1 ± 0.7 years), recruited from five South Korean cities participated in this study. We used urine cotinine as a biomarker for environmental tobacco smoke exposure, and obtained the children's scores on a CPT. Parents completed the Korean versions of the ADHD Rating Scale – IV (ADHD-RS) and Learning Disability Evaluation Scale (LDES). Using generalized linear mixed model (GLMM), we assessed the associations between urine cotinine concentrations, neuropsychological variables, and symptoms of ADHD and learning disabilities. Additionally, we conducted structural equation models to explore the effects' pathways.

Results

After adjusting for a range of relevant covariates, GLMM showed urinary cotinine levels were significantly and positively associated with CPT scores on omission errors, commission errors, response time, and response time variability, and with parent- and teacher-rated ADHD-RS scores. In addition, urine cotinine levels were negatively associated with LDES scores on spelling and mathematical calculations. The structural equation model revealed that CPT variables mediated the association between urine cotinine levels and parental reports of symptoms of ADHD and learning disabilities.

Conclusions

Our data indicate that environmental exposure to tobacco smoke is associated with ADHD and learning disabilities in children, and that impairments in attention and inhibitory control probably mediate the effect.
SUMS OF EXPONENTIALS OF RANDOM WALKS WITH DRIFT
Authors: Qu Xi , de Jong Robert
Published: May 2012

For many time series in empirical macro and finance, it is assumed that the logarithm of the series is a unit root process. Since we may want to assume a stable growth rate for the macroeconomics time series, it seems natural to potentially model such a series as a unit root process with drift. This assumption implies that the level of such a time series is the exponential of a unit root process with drift and therefore, it is of substantial interest to investigate analytically the behavior of the exponential of a unit root process with drift. This paper shows that the sum of the exponential of a random walk with drift converges in distribution, after rescaling by the exponential of the maximum value of the random walk process. A similar result was established in earlier work for unit root processes without drift. The results derived here suggest the conjecture that also in the case when the Dickey-Fuller test or the KPSS statistic is applied to the exponential of a unit root process with drift, these tests will asymptotically indicate stationarity.
A STATE SPACE CANONICAL FORM FOR UNIT ROOT PROCESSES
Authors: Bauer Dietmar , Wagner Martin
Published: May 2012

In this paper we develop a canonical state space representation of autoregressive moving average (ARMA) processes with unit roots with integer integration orders at arbitrary unit root frequencies. The developed representation utilizes a state process with a particularly simple dynamic structure, which in turn renders this representation highly suitable for unit root, cointegration, and polynomial cointegration analysis. We also propose a new definition of polynomial cointegration that overcomes limitations of existing definitions and extends the definition of multicointegration for I(2) processes of Granger and Lee (1989a, Journal of Applied Econometrics4, 145–159). A major purpose of the canonical representation for statistical analysis is the development of parameterizations of the sets of all state space systems of a given system order with specified unit root frequencies and integration orders. This is, e.g., useful for pseudo maximum likelihood estimation. In this respect an advantage of the state space representation, compared to ARMA representations, is that it easily allows one to put in place restrictions on the (co)integration properties. The results of the paper are exemplified for the cases of largest interest in applied work.
Marketing foods to children through product packaging: prolific, unhealthy and misleading
Authors: Mehta Kaye , Phillips Clare , Ward Paul , Coveney John , Handsley Elizabeth , Carter Patricia
Published: May 2012

Objective

To investigate marketing techniques used on the packaging of child-oriented products sold through supermarkets.

Design

Food and beverage products which met criteria for ‘marketed to children’ were recorded as child-oriented. The products were analysed for food categories, nutritional value, and type and extent of marketing techniques used.

Setting

A major supermarket chain in Adelaide, South Australia.

Subjects

Child-oriented food and beverage products.

Results

One hundred and fifty-seven discrete products were marketed to children via product packaging; most (75·2 %) represented non-core foods, being high in fat or sugar. Many marketing techniques (more than sixteen unique marketing techniques) were used to promote child-oriented food products. Claims about health and nutrition were found on 55·5 % of non-core foods. A median of 6·43 marketing techniques per product was found.

Conclusions

The high volume and power of marketing non-core foods to children via product packaging in supermarkets should be of concern to policy makers wanting to improve children's diet for their health and to tackle childhood obesity. Claims about health or nutrition on non-core foods deserve urgent attention owing to their potential to mislead and confuse child and adult consumers.
Relationship between markers of inflammation and anaemia in children of Papua New Guinea
Authors: Shinoda Naomi , Sullivan Kevin M , Tripp Katie , Erhardt Jürgen G , Haynes Bridgette MH , Temple Victor J , Woodruff Bradley
Published: May 2012

Objective

To assess the association of the acute-phase protein biomarkers, C-reactive protein (CRP) and α1-acid glycoprotein (AGP), with anaemia in children aged 6–59·9 months in Papua New Guinea.

Design

A nationally representative household-based cross-sectional survey of children aged 6–59·9 months was used to assess the relationships between various combinations of elevated CRP (>5 mg/l) and AGP (>1·2 g/l) with anaemia. Logistic regression was used to determine if other factors, such as age, sex, measures of anthropometry, region, urban/rural residence and household size, modified or confounded the acute-phase protein–anaemia association.

Setting

Papua New Guinea.

Subjects

A total of 870 children aged 6–59·9 months from the 2005 Papua New Guinea National Micronutrient Survey were assessed.

Results

The following prevalence estimates were found: anaemia 48 %; elevated CRP 32 %; and elevated AGP 33 %. Children with elevated CRP had a prevalence of anaemia of 66 % compared with children with normal CRP who had a prevalence of 40 %. Corresponding estimates for AGP were 61 % and 42 %, respectively. Similar results were found with combinations of elevated CRP and AGP. The higher prevalence of anaemia in children with elevated CRP and/or AGP was still present after controlling for confounders.

Conclusions

Elevated levels of CRP and AGP were significantly associated with a higher prevalence of anaemia in the children surveyed. There are no expert group recommendations on whether to or how to account for markers of inflammation in presenting results on anaemia prevalence. Additional research would be helpful to clarify this issue.
Iodine status of pregnant women in a population changing from high to lower fish and milk consumption
Authors: Gunnarsdottir Ingibjorg , Gustavsdottir Anita G , Steingrimsdottir Laufey , Maage Amund , Johannesson Ari J , Thorsdottir Inga
Published: May 2012

Objectives

Pregnancy is one of the most critical periods for iodine deficiency. The aim of the present study was to assess the iodine status and dietary intake of pregnant women in a population changing from high to lower consumption of milk and fish.

Design

Cross-sectional observational study. Urine samples were collected for measuring urinary iodine concentration (UIC) and creatinine, and blood samples for measuring serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Frequency of consumption of selected food and beverages was obtained through a semi-quantitative validated FFQ. The difference in the distribution of UIC, ratio of iodine to creatinine (I:Cr) and TSH between groups following recommendations on fish and dairy product intake or not (fish ≥2 times/week as a main meal, diary products ≥2 portions/d) was assessed.

Setting

Primary Health Care of the Capital Area, Reykjavik, Iceland.

Subjects

Randomly selected pregnant women (19–43 years old,n162).

Results

The median UIC was 180 μg/l, I:Cr 173 μg/g and TSH 1·5 mmol/l. Women who did not consume fish ≥2 times/week and also did not consume dairy products in line with the recommended intake level of ≥2 portions/d had median UIC of 160 μg/l (I:Cr 149 μg/g) compared with 220 μg/l (I:Cr 190 μg/g) in the group following both the recommendations for fish and those for dairy products. Use of dietary supplements in the two groups was similar.

Conclusions

Iodine status in the population studied was within the optimal range (150–249 μg/d) defined by the WHO.