bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum β2-Microglobulin Correlates Positively with Left Ventricular Hypertrophy in Long-Term Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Masuda Mio , Ishimura Eiji , Ochi Akinobu , Tsujimoto Yoshihiro , Tahahra Hideki , Okuno Senji , Tabata Tsutomu , Nishizawa Yoshiki , Inaba Masaaki
Published: December 2014

Background/Aims: β2-Microglobulin (β2-MG) is a major protein component of dialysis-related amyloidosis. In long-term hemodialysis (HD) patients, β2-MG amyloid deposits not only in osteoarticular tissues, but also in systemic tissues, including the heart. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between serum β2-MG concentrations and echocardiographic parameters in long-term HD patients in a cross-sectional study. Methods: Measurement of serum β2-MG concentrations and echocardiography were performed in 251 patients who had undergone HD therapy for more than 10 years. Results: The left ventricular mass index (LVMI) of the higher serum β2-MG (≥30 mg/l) group was significantly higher than that of the lower serum β2-MG (<30 mg/l) group (151.5 ± 45.7 vs. 137.0 ± 44.5 g/m2, p = 0.020). In simple regression analyses, serum β2-MG concentrations correlated significantly and positively with interventricular septum thickness (IVST) (r = 0.215, p < 0.001), posterior left ventricular wall thickness (PWT) (r = 0.249, p < 0.001), left ventricular wall thickness (LVWT) (r = 0.252, p < 0.001), relative wall thickness (RWT) (r = 0.153, p = 0.015) and LVMI (r = 0.171, p = 0.007). Multiple regression analyses revealed that serum β2-MG concentrations correlated significantly and positively with IVST, PWT, LVWT and RWT. Conclusion: Serum β2-MG concentrations correlated significantly and positively with the echocardiographic parameters of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) in long-term HD patients. Thus, deposition of β2-MG amyloid in the heart may be associated with LVH progression.
Role of Reactive Oxygen Species-Mediated Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Contrast-Induced Renal Tubular Cell Apoptosis
Authors: Yang Yifei , Yang Dingwei , Yang Dingping , Jia Ruhan , Ding Guohua
Published: December 2014

Background: Renal tubular cell apoptosis is a key mechanism of contrast-induced acute kidney injury. It has been reported that endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is the underlying mechanism of high osmolar contrast-induced renal tubular cell apoptosis. Whether ER stress is involved in low osmolar contrast-induced renal tubular cell injury remains unclear. In the present study, the roles of ER stress in iopromide-induced (a low osmolar contrast) renal tubular cell apoptosis and the effects of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on ER stress were investigated. Methods: NRK-52E cells were exposed to different concentrations of iopromide [50, 100 and 150 mg iodine (I)/ml] for 4 h. In a separate experiment, NRK-52E cells were exposed to iopromide (100 mg I/ml, 4 h) with or without NAC (10 mmol/l). NAC was added 1 h before incubation with iopromide. Apoptosis was determined by Hoechst staining and flow cytometry. The intracellular formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was detected by confocal microscopy with fluorescent probe CM-H2DCFDA. The expression of glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) and CAAT/enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP) was determined by Western blot. Results: Iopromide induced NRK-52E cell apoptosis in a concentration-dependent manner. The intracellular ROS production increased significantly following iopromide exposure in the NRK-52E cells. Significantly increased expressions of GRP78 and CHOP were observed in the NRK-52E cells exposed to iopromide for 4 h; NAC attenuated iopromide-induced NRK-52E cell apoptosis by inhibiting the overproduction of intracellular ROS and subsequently suppressing the overexpression of GRP78 and CHOP. Conclusion: ROS-mediated ER stress is involved in contrast-induced renal tubular cell apoptosis.
Increased Macrophage Activation Inhibited by Tacrolimus in the Kidney of Diabetic Rats
Authors: Wu Yonggui , Wang Yan , Qi Xiangming , Zhang Pei , Zhang Chaoqun , Zhang Wei
Published: December 2014

Background/Aims: Accumulating evidence suggests that macrophage-induced inflammation may be the mechanism of development and progression of diabetic nephropathy. A previous study by our group has shown that tacrolimus, like cyclosporin A, has a renoprotective effect in diabetic rats. The present study aimed to elucidate the underlying molecular events. Methods: Diabetic rats were induced by using streptozotocin. Diabetic rats were subjected to oral tacrolimus treatment at a dose of 0.5 or 1.0 mg/kg daily for 4 weeks. Body weight, blood glucose, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and renal pathology were assessed, followed by analyses of renal calcineurin (CaN) expression, changes in renal macrophage infiltration, proliferation and activation, and detection of renal TLR2+ and TLR4+ as well as NF-κB-p-p65+ in macrophages. Results: Diabetic rats had a reduced body weight and increased blood glucose and HbA1c levels, whereas tacrolimus treatment did not affect body weight or blood glucose and HbA1c. Increased relative kidney weight was only significantly reduced by tacrolimus treatment at a dose of 1.0 mg/kg, while the elevated albumin excretion rate was markedly attenuated after treatment with tacrolimus (0.5 and 1.0 mg/kg) in diabetic rats. Elevated glomerular volume was significantly attenuated by tacrolimus treatment with 0.5 and 1.0 mg/kg, and increased indices for tubulointerstitial injury were only ameliorated by tacrolimus treatment with 1.0 mg/kg. Western blot data showed that expression of CaN protein was induced 2.4-fold in the kidneys of positive control diabetic rats, whereas tacrolimus treatment at 0.5 and 1.0 mg/kg doses reduced the increased expression of CaN protein by 38.0 and 73.2%, respectively. Histologically there was a marked accumulation of ED-1+ cells (macrophages) in diabetic kidneys and tacrolimus treatment failed to inhibit it. In contrast, tacrolimus treatment at 0.5 and 1.0 mg/kg doses significantly inhibited the elevated ED-1+/PCNA+ cells and ED-1+/iNOS+ cells in the kidneys of diabetic rats, while tacrolimus treatment at a dose of 0.5 or 1.0 mg/kg significantly suppressed the increased ED-1+/TLR2+ cells, ED-1+/TLR4+ cells and ED-1+/NF-κB-p-p65+ cells in the kidneys of diabetic rats. Conclusion: The data from the current study demonstrated that tacrolimus could ameliorate early renal injury through a mechanism to suppress macrophage activation.
Noninvasive Estimation of Oxygen Consumption in Human Calf Muscle through Combined NMR Measurements of ASL Perfusion and T2 Oxymetry
Authors: Decorte Nicolas , Buehler Tania , Caldas de Almeida Araujo Ericky , Vignaud Alexandre , Carlier Pierre G.
Published: December 2014

The objective of this work was to demonstrate the feasibility of measuring muscle O2 consumption (V)O2) noninvasively with a combination of functional nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) imaging methods, and to verify that changes in muscle V)O2 can be detected with a temporal resolution compatible with physiological investigation and patient ease. T2-based oxymetry of arterial and venous blood was combined with the arterial-spin labeling (ASL)-based determination of muscle perfusion. These measurements were performed on 8 healthy volunteers under normoxic and hypoxic conditions in order to assess the sensitivity of measurements over a range of saturation values. Blood samples were drawn simultaneously and used to titrate blood T2 measurements versus hemoglobin O2 saturation (%HbO2) in vitro. The in vitro calibration curve of blood T2 fitted very well with the %HbO2 (r2: 0.95). The in vivo venous T2 measurements agreed well with the in vitro measurements (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.82, 95% confidence interval 0.61-0.91). Oxygen extraction at rest decreased in the calf muscles subjected to hypoxia (p = 0.031). The combination of unaltered muscle perfusion and pinched arteriovenous O2 difference (p = 0.038) pointed towards a reduced calf muscle V)O2 during transient hypoxia (p = 0.018). The results of this pilot study confirmed that muscle O2 extraction and V)O2 can be estimated noninvasively using a combination of functional NMR techniques. Further studies are needed to confirm the usefulness in a larger sample of volunteers and patients. i 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
Population-Based Estimated Reference Creatinine Values: A Novel Method of a Robust Electronic Acute Kidney Injury Alert System
Authors: Ahmed Shahed , Curtis Sarah , Hill Charlotte , Hine Trevor
Published: December 2014

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is common in hospitalized patients. Despite the progress that has been made in the last decade, early identification of AKI cases remains a challenge. In recent years, electronic AKI alert (e-AKI alert) systems have been tested and are usually based on changes in serum creatinine (Cr) values. However, these methods do not include one of the common scenarios, i.e. when there is no available preadmission Cr value available for a patient to compare and hence an e-AKI alert cannot be issued. Therefore, it is essential to have an alternative algorithm to produce e-AKI alerts in such scenarios. Method: We have developed e-AKI alert algorithms which compare serum Cr values at presentation with previous results, within KDIGO AKI guideline-specified classifications. However, where a comparator is not available, we have produced a ‘population-based reference Cr value' age and sex matched from 137,000 serum Cr values extracted from blood tests in general practice from our Telepath system. Results: Cr results were split by gender, and then within each group the Cr were stratified according to year of age. The median Cr for each individual year of age was identified and plotted versus age to give separate graphs for males and females that gave excellent fits (R2) to cubic regressions. Conclusion: Population-based estimated reference Cr measurements from community blood test results is a more robust method of baseline Cr value estimation in generating potential e-AKI alerts to help early recognition and treatment of AKI cases leading to improved outcome.
The Evolution of Helicobacter Pylori Antibiotics Resistance Over 10 Years in Greece
Authors: Karamanolis Georgios P. , Daikos George L. , Xouris Dimitrios , Goukos Dimitrios , Delladetsima Ioanna , Ladas Spiros D.
Published: December 2014

Background: Increasingly, over time, antibiotic resistance is considered a problem for the efficacy of H. pylori eradication treatment. The aim of our study was to evaluate the changes in clarithromycin and levofloxacin resistance of H. pylori strains in Greek patients in two different time periods (in 2000 and in 2010). Methods: Gastric biopsies of consecutive H. pylori-positive patients were investigated retrospectively. Mutations in H. pylori 23S rRNA and gyrA genes associated with resistance to clarithromycin and quinolones, respectively, were determined by allelic specific polymerase chain reaction. Results: In the first time period (2000), H. pylori resistance patterns were evaluated in 50 and in the second period (2010) in 57 patients. During the first time period 30 and 0% of patients were infected with clarithromycin- or quinolone-resistant strains, respectively. In the second time period (2010), the percentage of patients infected with clarythromycin or quinolone resistance strains increased to 42 and 5.3%, respectively. Conclusions: Our study showed an increase in the prevalence of both clarithromycin and quinolones resistance of H. pylori. Although the resistance rate to quinolones increased over the years, it is relatively low justifying its use for the eradication of H. pylori infections. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel
The NHLBI-Sponsored Consortium for preclinicAl assESsment of cARdioprotective Therapies (CAESAR)
Authors: Jones Steven P. , Tang Xian-Liang , Guo Yiru , Steenbergen Charles , Lefer David J. , Kukreja Rakesh C. , Kong Maiying , Li Qianhong , Bhushan Shashi , Zhu Xiaoping , Du Junjie , Nong Yibing , Stowers Heather L. , Kondo Kazuhisa , Hunt Gregory N. , Goodchild Traci T. , Orr Adam , Chang Carlos C. , Ockaili Ramzi , Salloum Fadi N. , Bolli Roberto
Published: December 2014

Rationale:

Despite 4 decades of intense effort and substantial financial investment, the cardioprotection field has failed to deliver a single drug that effectively reduces myocardial infarct size in patients. A major reason is insufficient rigor and reproducibility in preclinical studies.

Objective:

To develop a multicenter, randomized, controlled, clinical trial-like infrastructure to conduct rigorous and reproducible preclinical evaluation of cardioprotective therapies.

Methods and Results:

With support from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, we established the Consortium for preclinicAl assESsment of cARdioprotective therapies (CAESAR), based on the principles of randomization, investigator blinding, a priori sample size determination and exclusion criteria, appropriate statistical analyses, and assessment of reproducibility. To validate CAESAR, we tested the ability of ischemic preconditioning to reduce infarct size in 3 species (at 2 sites/species): mice (n=22–25 per group), rabbits (n=11–12 per group), and pigs (n=13 per group). During this validation phase, (1) we established protocols that gave similar results between centers and confirmed that ischemic preconditioning significantly reduced infarct size in all species and (2) we successfully established a multicenter structure to support CAESAR’s operations, including 2 surgical centers for each species, a Pathology Core (to assess infarct size), a Biomarker Core (to measure plasma cardiac troponin levels), and a Data Coordinating Center—all with the oversight of an external Protocol Review and Monitoring Committee.

Conclusions:

CAESAR is operational, generates reproducible results, can detect cardioprotection, and provides a mechanism for assessing potential infarct-sparing therapies with a level of rigor analogous to multicenter, randomized, controlled clinical trials. This is a revolutionary new approach to cardioprotection. Importantly, we provide state-of-the-art, detailed protocols (“CAESAR protocols”) for measuring infarct size in mice, rabbits, and pigs in a manner that is rigorous, accurate, and reproducible.
Resistive and Pulsatile Arterial Hemodynamics and Cardiovascular Events: The Multiethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Lilly Scott M. , Jacobs David , Bluemke David A. , Duprez Daniel , Zamani Payman , Chirinos Julio
Published: December 2014

Background

Arterial blood pressure is dependent on interactions between the heart and arteries. Resistive and pulsatile components of arterial load can be assessed by systemic vascular resistance (
SVR
, a microvascular property) and the ratio of stroke volume to pulse pressure (a surrogate of total arterial compliance,
TAC
), respectively. The relationship between arterial function and cardiovascular events in populations without cardiovascular disease is unknown.

Methods and Results

We studied 4806 adults enrolled in the Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis who were free of clinical cardiovascular disease at baseline.
SVR
and stroke volume/pulse pressure (
SV
/
PP
) were derived by sphygmomanometry and magnetic resonance imaging. The relationship between these measures of arterial function and incident cardiovascular events was assessed using Cox regression. With a mean follow‐up of 7.5 years, cardiovascular events occurred in 358 participants (7.4%). There was no relationship between
SVR
and subsequent cardiovascular events. However, increased stroke volume/pulse pressure was associated with reduced event rate in unadjusted (hazard ratio=0.67, 95%
CI
=0.58 to 0.77,
P
<0.001) and analyses that adjusted for multiple confounders (
HR
=0.75; 95%
CI
=0.62 to 0.90;
P
<0.001).

Conclusions

Greater total arterial compliance, manifest by higher stroke volume/pulse pressure is associated with a reduced incidence of subsequent
CVE
. In contrast,
SVR
was not independently associated with
CVE
in subjects free of overt cardiovascular disease at baseline. These findings support the concept that alternations in the large conduit vessels, rather than changes in microvascular resistance, are primarily related to incident cardiovascular disease.
Phenotypic Analysis of Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy in the Hutterite Population: Role of Electrocardiogram in Identifying High‐Risk Desmocollin‐2 Carriers
Authors: Wong Jorge A. , Duff Henry J. , Yuen Tiffany , Kolman Louis , Exner Derek V. , Weeks Sarah G. , Gerull Brenda
Published: December 2014

Background

The p.Gln554X mutation in desmocollin‐2 (
DSC
2) is prevalent in ≈10% of the Hutterite population. While the homozygous mutation causes severe biventricular arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy, the phenotypic features and prognosis of heterozygotes remain incompletely understood.

Methods and Results

Eleven homozygotes (mean age 32±8 years, 45% female), 28 heterozygotes (mean age 40±15 years, 50% female), and 22 mutation‐negatives (mean age 43±17 years, 41% female) were examined. Diagnostic testing was performed as per the arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy modified Task Force Criteria. Inverted T waves in the right precordial leads on
ECG
were seen in all homozygotes but not in their counterparts (
P
<0.001). Homozygotes had higher median daily
premature ventricular complex
burden than did heterozygotes or mutation‐negatives (1407 [
IQR
1080 to 2936] versus 2 [
IQR
0 to 6] versus 6 [
IQR
0 to 214],
P
=0.0002). Ventricular tachycardia was observed in 60% of homozygotes but in none of the remaining individuals (
P
<0.001). On cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, homozygotes had significantly larger indexed end‐diastolic volumes (right ventricular: 122±24 versus 83±17 versus 83±12 mL/m
2
,
P
<0.0001; left ventricular: 93±18 versus 76±13 versus 80±11 mL/m
2
,
P
=0.0124) and lower ejection fraction values compared with heterozygotes and mutation‐negatives (right ventricular ejection fraction: 41±9% versus 59±9% versus 61±6%,
P
<0.0001; left ventricular ejection fraction: 53±8% versus 65±5% versus 64±5%,
P
<0.0001). Most affected individuals lacked right ventricular wall motion abnormalities. Thus, few met cardiac magnetic resonance imaging task force criteria.

Conclusions

The
ECG
reliably identifies homozygous p.Gln554X carriers and may be useful as an initial step in the screening of high‐risk Hutterites. The cardiac phenotype of heterozygotes appears benign, but further prospective follow‐up of their arrhythmic risk is needed.
Clinical Prediction Algorithm (BRAIN) to Determine Risk of Hematoma Growth in Acute Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Wang Xia , Arima Hisatomi , Al-Shahi Salman Rustam , Woodward Mark , Heeley Emma , Stapf Christian , Lavados Pablo M. , Robinson Thompson , Huang Yining , Wang Jiguang , Delcourt Candice , Anderson Craig S.
Published: December 2014

Background and Purpose—

We developed and validated a simple algorithm to predict the risk of hematoma growth in acute spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) to better inform clinicians and researchers in their efforts to improve outcomes for patients.

Methods—

We analyzed data from the computed tomography substudies of the pilot and main phases of the Intensive Blood Pressure Reduction in Acute Cerebral Hemorrhage Trials (INTERACT1 and 2, respectively). The study group was divided into a derivation cohort (INTERACT2, n=964) and a validation cohort (INTERACT1, n=346). Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with clinically significant (≥6 mL) increase in hematoma volume at 24 hours after symptom onset. A parsimonious risk score was developed on the basis of regression coefficients derived from the logistic model.

Results—

A 24-point BRAIN score was derived from INTERACT2 (C-statistic, 0.73) based on baseline ICH volume (mL per score, ≤10=0, 10–20=5, >20=7), recurrent ICH (yes=4), anticoagulation with warfarin at symptom onset (yes=6), intraventricular extension (yes=2), and number of hours to baseline computed tomography from symptom onset (≤1=5, 1–2=4, 2–3=3, 3–4=2, 4–5=1, >5=0) predicted the probability of ICH growth (ranging from 3.4% for 0 point to 85.8% for 24 points) with good discrimination (C-statistic, 0.73) and calibration (Hosmer–Lemeshow
P
=0.82) in INTERACT1.

Conclusions—

The simple BRAIN score predicts the probability of hematoma growth in ICH. This could be used to improve risk stratification for research and clinical practice.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00226096 and NCT00716079.
A new synonym for Pristimantis luscombei (Duellman and Mendelson 1995) and the description of a new species of Pristimantis from the upper Amazon basin (Amphibia: Craugastoridae)
Authors: ORTEGA-ANDRADE H. MAURICIO , VENEGAS PABLO J.
Published: December 2014

We consider Pristimantis achuar as junior synonym of P. luscombei, based on morphological and genetic evidence. Paratype specimens of P. luscombei are part of a new species, which lead to taxonomic confusion regarding the identity of P. luscombei. We describe and name this new species as Pristimantis miktos sp. nov. from Juyuintza, Pastaza province, eastern lowlands of Ecuador. Morphological diagnostic characters used to distinguish the new species from other brownish Amazonian Pristimantis are: (1) skin of dorsum shagreen with scattered tubercles or pustules; (2) tympanum prominent; (3) a thick X-shaped scapular dermal ridge in males; and (4) an orange iris in life. Pristimantis miktos is an inhabitant of the lowlands forests of the Pastaza and Napo drainages in eastern Ecuador and northern Loreto in Peru, reaching elevations of up to 350 m; P. luscombei is widely distributed in the upper Amazon Basin of Ecuador, northern Peru and extreme western Brazil, up to 1000 m. Phylogenetic analyses reveals that P. luscombei and the new species are not closest relatives, as also deduced from morphological evidence.
Review of the Lutrochidae (Coleoptera) of the Guianas and Lesser Antilles, with description of four new species
Authors: MAIER CRYSTAL A. , SHORT ANDREW EDWARD Z.
Published: December 2014

The species of Lutrochidae from the Guianas, and the Lesser Antilles are reviewed, including the first reports of the family from Guyana, Suriname, and Grenada. Four species are described as new: Lutrochus funkae n. sp. and L. wao n. sp. from Guyana and French Guiana, L. grenadensis n. sp. from Grenada, and L. leeanneae n. sp. from Suriname. Photographs, genitalia illustrations, and distribution maps are provided for all species, and habitat photos and notes are presented for the species for which they are available.
Analysis of plumage, morphology, and voice reveals species-level differences between two subspecies of Prevost’s Ground-sparrow Melozone biarcuata (Prévost and Des Murs) (Aves: Emberizidae)
Authors: SANDOVAL LUIS , BITTON PIERRE-PAUL , DOUCET STÉPHANIE M. , MENNILL DANIEL J.
Published: December 2014

Melozone biarcuata (Prevost’s Ground-sparrow) has traditionally been divided into two allopatric groups based on differences in vocalizations and plumage characteristics: M. b. cabanisi in Costa Rica and M. b. biarcuata/M. b. hartwegi in northern Central America. However, the relationship between these subspecies has not been studied using a modern taxonomic approach. In this study, our objective was to provide the first detailed taxonomic comparison between these three subspecies using an integrative multi-trait analysis. We analyzed morphometric features, qualitative plumage patterns, and quantitative plumage measurements using spectral reflectance from all three subspecies, and we analyzed vocalizations for subspecies M. b. biarcuata and M. b. cabanisi. Our results show that M. b. cabanisi can be readily distinguished from the two other subspecies on the basis of morphometrics (M. b. cabanisi are smaller), plumage patterns (M. b. cabanisi have different facial markings and plumage patches), color differences (M. b. cabanisi have plumage patches that differ in color and brightness), and vocalizations (M. b. cabanisi have songs and calls that are acoustically distinct from those of M. b. biarcuata). By contrast, the two northern subspecies M. b. biarcuata and M. b. hartwegi were very similar for most traits, supporting previous suggestions that the two northern subspecies should be considered a single subspecies. Our data reveal that the differentiation in phenotypic characteristics between M. b. cabanisi versus M. b. biarcuata and M. b. hartwegi is similar to that reported for other complexes of subspecies where species status has been recognized. We argue that M. b. cabanisi should be treated as a species separate from M. biarcuata and propose that it be called Melozone cabanisi, White-faced Ground-sparrow. Our findings will contribute to the conservation efforts of the White-faced Ground-sparrow, which is endemic to Costa Rica’s Central Valley and Turrialba Valley, by bringing focus to conservation policies that preserve ground-sparrow habitat (thickets, shade coffee plantations, and young secondary forest).
Species of the genus Aragara Walker (Diptera: Chloropidae: Chloropinae:
Mindini) from China with key to species of the world
Authors: LIU XIAOYAN , YANG DING
Published: December 2014

The genus Aragara Walker is newly recorded from China. The following two species are described new to science: A. flavaristata sp. nov. and A. menglaensis sp. nov. One species, A. trilineata Cherian, is newly recorded from China, and one new combination, A. sinensis (Yang & Yang), is proposed. A key to world species of genus Aragara is given.
Optimal Excitation of Asymmetric Perturbations on an Axisymmetric Barotropic Vortex: A Linear Singular-Value Analysis
Authors: Itano Toshihisa
Published: December 2014

Singular vectors on a barotropic circular vortex consisting of three regions of piecewise-constant vorticity are investigated under the L2 norm to reveal the shape and growth rate of possible perturbations that may contribute to the formation of the hierarchal structure seen in natural and artificial vortices. Here, the analytical form of the singular values and the forward and backward singular vectors are derived for comparison with the corresponding eigenvalues and vectors. The results indicate no notable difference between the growing eigenvector and the singular vectors for Michalke and Timme’s profile, which is characterized by a ring of high vorticity. In contrast, for Syōno’s profile, which incorporates a negative vorticity region between a solidly rotating core and potentially rotating surroundings, the pattern of the forward singular vector giving the maximum growth in a specified time interval differs crucially from that of the growing eigenvector: whereas the radial peak of the streamfunction exists solely at the maximum-wind radius of the basic vortex in the growing eigenvector, it shifts outward in the growing forward singular vector. This implies the injection of considerable energy into the outer part of the basic vortex, rather than in the inner ring of the highest wind, facilitating the formation of hierarchal structure concentrated around the core region of the vortex.
French Military Action in Spain from Dictatorship to Democracy: Arms, Technology and Convergence
Authors: Sánchez Sánchez Esther M.
Published: December 2014

This article explores the evolution of French–Spanish military relations during the Franco dictatorship and the first democratic governments in Spain. After examining the origins, implications and limits of the bilateral general rapprochement, we will focus on French transfers of defence technology and arms to Spain. During the Cold War, Spain was part of the western bloc and the United States of America was the main international partner of the Franco regime. Nevertheless, western European countries, led by France, started to compete with the USA in Spain's political, economic and military external relations. After more than two decades of contact amongst French and Spanish armies, governments and arms companies (mainly state-owned), the most significant results in the military field appeared at the beginning of the 1970s, still during the dictatorship, and were consolidated and expanded during the democratic transition after 1975. French offers of co-manufacturing agreements, expert training and aid for exports, as well as the Spanish wish to approach Europe to counteract US predominance, largely explain the success of French military action in Spain during this period.
A Comparative Examination of Student Teacher and Intern Perceptions of Teaching Ability at the Preservice and Inservice Stages
Authors: Clark Sarah K. , Byrnes Deborah , Sudweeks Richard R.
Published: December 2014

This study investigates how the culminating teacher preparation program (TPP) experience (either student teaching assignment or internship) influences the perceptions teachers report about their ability to perform instructional tasks required of teachers. A multivariate ANOVA test ( N = 502) was conducted to compare perceptions of student teachers (those who taught 15 weeks) and interns (those who taught a full academic year) at two points in time—once at the conclusion of their TPP and again after their first year of teaching. Results indicate that overall, student teachers report higher perceptions of their ability to perform instructional tasks than interns do at both the preservice and inservice teacher stages. Interns reported higher scores at the inservice stage on only the mathematics subscale, suggesting that there is some change in self-efficacy as teachers gain teaching experience. Findings suggest that the student teaching context provides more modeling and verbal support and produces teachers with higher perceptions of teaching ability than those who complete an internship.
Categorical phonotactic knowledge filters second language input, but probabilistic phonotactic knowledge can still be acquired
Authors: Lentz Tomas O. , Kager René W. J.
Published: December 2014

Probabilistic phonotactic knowledge facilitates perception, but categorical phonotactic illegality can cause misperceptions, especially of non-native phoneme combinations. If misperceptions induced by first language (L1) knowledge filter second language input, access to second language (L2) probabilistic phonotactics is potentially blocked for L2 acquisition. The facilitatory effects of L2 probabilistic phonotactics and categorical filtering effects of L1 phonotactics were compared and contrasted in a series of cross-modal priming experiments. Dutch native listeners and L1 Spanish and Japanese learners of Dutch had to perform a lexical decision task on Dutch words that started with /sC/ clusters that were of different degrees of probabilistic wellformedness in Dutch but illegal in Spanish and Japanese. Versions of target words with Spanish illegality resolving epenthesis in the clusters primed the Spanish group, showing an L1 filter; a similar effect was not found for the Japanese group. In addition, words with wellformed /sC/ clusters were recognised faster, showing a positive effect on processing of probabilistic wellformedness. However, Spanish learners with higher proficiency were facilitated to a greater extent by wellformed but epenthesised clusters, showing that although probabilistic learning occurs in spite of the L1 filter, the acquired probabilistic knowledge is still affected by L1 categorical knowledge. Categorical phonotactic and probabilistic knowledge are of a different nature and interact in acquisition.
Comparing Surface and Underlying Local Dependence Levels via Polychoric Correlations
Authors: Houts Carrie R. , Edwards Michael C.
Published: December 2014

Item response theory (IRT) is a set of psychometric models used in the social and behavioral sciences. As part of applying these models in practice, a number of assumptions are made. A large literature exists assessing the extent to which these assumptions are satisfied in a given data set. One of these assumptions, local independence, is the focus of the research described here. When the local independence assumption is violated, there is said to be local dependence (LD). Several different models of LD have been proposed, and a number of studies have been conducted examining the performance of different methods at detecting LD. Underlying LD (ULD) and surface LD (SLD) were proposed as two possible mechanisms underlying observed LD in an early exploration of detection procedures. In a number of previous studies, it appears as though ULD is more difficult to detect than SLD. In this article, the authors demonstrate a procedure to examine comparability of induced LD and present results, which suggest a re-interpretation of existing studies on LD detection.
You empower us and then what? A practitioner reflection on work with women offenders
Authors: McDermott Shelly-Ann
Published: December 2014

Having completed a research project with a small group of women offenders for The Griffins Society, I developed a new understanding of the importance of a range of empowerment approaches. The interventions with women who offend must incorporate both pragmatic and structural aspects alongside any confidence building support. Moreover, the limited services that exist for women require sustained funding. In fact, the community based provisions that remain accessible to women beyond their contact with the criminal justice system can make a real difference to their desistance journey.
Probation officers and child protection work
Authors: Ansbro Maria
Published: December 2014

This research was an examination of 31 probation service cases that required some level of child protection work. The work was undertaken for a large metropolitan probation trust to establish the characteristics of child protection cases, and evaluate standards of practice. The sample was found to be predominantly low or medium risk. It was characterized by widespread domestic violence, and mothers struggling to parent on their own. Substance misuse was a very common feature, and to a lesser extent poor mental health. A great deal of impressive practice, as well as some poor practice was encountered, and the cases provide much instruction as to just what a ‘think family’ approach means. Probation officers were excluded from multi-agency work in a worrying number of cases.
Predictors of traditional medical knowledge transmission and acquisition in South West Nigeria
Authors: Adekannbi Janet , Olatokun Wole M , Ajiferuke Isola
Published: December 2014

This study investigated the roles of demographic variables in the transmission and acquisition of traditional medical knowledge (TMK) in rural communities of South West Nigeria. Survey research design was adopted. Three communities from each of the six states in South West Nigeria were purposively selected. Snowball technique was used in selecting 228 Traditional Medical Practitioners (TMPs), while convenience sampling was used in selecting 529 traditional medicine apprentices. The structured questionnaire used focused on the demographic characteristics of the TMPs and their apprentices. Three key informant interviews and two focus group discussion sessions were also conducted in each state. The quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, binary logistic regression and Chi square analysis, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. Logistic regression analyses showed that years of experience (Exp(B) = 1.875) was a significant predictor of knowledge transmission by the TMPs. Apprentices’ marital status (Exp(B) = 2.250), expected length of apprenticeship (Exp(B) = 0.305) and completed length of apprenticeship (Exp(B) = 15.782) were significant predictors of TMK acquisition. Qualitative results also showed a relationship between age, sex, education and TMK transmission. Enhanced level of education improved transmission, while religion reportedly hindered acquisition. Improved access to basic and adult education and the need to stop gender discrimination is recommended to improve TMK transmission.
Actual position of interleukin(IL)-33 in atherosclerosis and heart failure: Great Expectations or En attendant Godot?
Authors: Kunes P , Mandak J , Holubcova Z , Kolackova M , Krejsek J
Published: December 2014

Atherosclerosis has been recognized as an inflammatory/autoimmune disease. The long-standing low-grade inflammation which fuels its development is primarily focused on the components of the vessel wall. Originally, inflammation in atherogenesis was supposed to be driven by the pro-inflammatory Th1 cellular and cytokine immune response. On the basis of accumulating evidence, this view has been re-evaluated to include the Th17/Th1 axis which is shared by most diseases of sterile inflammation. The anti-inflammatory Th2 cellular and cytokine immune response is initiated concomitantly with the former two, the latter dampening their harmful reactions which culminate in full-blown atherosclerosis. Interleukin-33, a novel member of the IL-1 cytokine superfamily, was suggested to take part in the anti-atherogenic response by mediating the Th1-to-Th2 switch of the immune reactions. However, IL-33 is a multifaceted mediator with both pro- and anti-inflammatory activities, also called a “dual factor” or a “Janus face” interleukin. IL-33 occurs both in an extracellular (cytokine-like) and in a nuclear-bound (transcription factor-like) form, each of them performing distinct activities of their own. This review article presents the latest data relevant to IL-33’s role in atherosclerosis and cardiac diseases as perceived by a cardiologist and a cardiac surgeon.
Geographies of ageing
Authors: Skinner Mark W. , Cloutier Denise , Andrews Gavin J.
Published: December 2014

This article examines two-decades of progress toward developing ‘geographies of ageing’ as a distinct field of human geography. Reflecting on the last review in this journal by Harper and Laws (1995), we elucidate the longstanding, emergent, and hidden pathways of scholarship involved in the constitution of the field since the mid-1990s. We consider contemporary developments relating to the empirical gap in understanding the contributions of older people and the potential for relational and nonrepresentational perspectives to expand the breadth of the field. The still nascent profile of ageing within the discipline is contrasted with the interdisciplinary spatial turn underway in gerontology.
Characterization of composites based on biodegradable poly(vinyl alcohol) and nanostructured fly ash with an emphasis on polymer–filler interaction
Authors: Patil Akshata G , Selvakumar M , Anandhan S
Published: December 2014

A thermal power station fly ash (FA) was mechanochemically activated by high-energy ball milling that yielded nanostructured FA. This nanostructured FA was incorporated into biodegradable poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) matrix by solution mixing and ultrasonication. Transmission electron micrographs revealed that the smooth spherical particles of FA were changed into irregular and rough ones; in addition, the particle size of FA was reduced to a few hundred nanometers, and its specific surface area value increased after the high-energy milling process. All these factors, in turn, led to a thermodynamically favorable interaction between the mechanochemically activated FA and PVA as evidenced by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The incorporation of a very small amount of the nanostructured FA led to an increase in crystallinity of the polymer matrix. The glass transition temperature of the PVA matrix increased by about 18°C when 5 wt% of the nanostructured FA was used as the reinforcement.
Anchors Weigh More Than Power
Authors: Schaerer Michael , Swaab Roderick I. , Galinsky Adam D.
Published: December 2014

The current research shows that having no power can be better than having a little power. Negotiators prefer having some power (weak negotiation alternatives) to having no power (no alternatives). We challenge this belief that having any alternative is beneficial by demonstrating that weak alternatives create low anchors that reduce the value of first offers. In contrast, having no alternatives is liberating because there is no anchor to weigh down first offers. In our experiments, negotiators with no alternatives felt less powerful but made higher first offers and secured superior outcomes compared with negotiators who had weak alternatives. We established the role of anchoring through mediation by first offers and through moderation by showing that weak alternatives no longer led to worse outcomes when negotiators focused on a countervailing anchor or when negotiators faced an opponent with a strong alternative. These results demonstrate that anchors can have larger effects than feelings of power. Absolute powerlessness can be psychologically liberating.
Cortical Excitability During Passive Action Observation in Hospitalized Adults With Subacute Moderate to Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Fecteau Shirley , Dickler Maya , Pelayo Raul , Kumru Hatice , Bernabeu Monste , Opisso Salleras Eloy , Tormos José Maria , Pascual-Leone Alvaro
Published: December 2014

Studies indicate that motor functions in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) can be improved with action observation. It has been hypothesized that this clinical practice relies on modulation of motor cortical excitability elicited by passive action observation in patients with TBI, a phenomenon shown thus far only in normal controls. The purpose of this work was to test this hypothesis and characterize the modulation of motor cortex excitability during passive action observation in patients with subacute moderate to severe TBI. We measured motor evoked potentials induced by single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation to the left primary motor cortex and recorded from the contralateral first dorsal interosseus while 20 participants observed videos of static and moving right index finger. Results were compared with those of 20 age-and gender-matched healthy controls. As expected, greater excitability was elicited during moving than static stimuli in healthy subjects. However, this was not observed in patients with TBI. Modulation of motor excitability during action observation is impaired in patients with TBI depending on motor dysfunction, lesion site, and number of days postinjury. These preliminary results suggest a strategy to identify patients in whom action observation might be a valuable neurorehabilitative strategy.
Factors associated with surgical intervention in children with high-grade congenital hydronephrosis
Authors: Chalmers David J , Siomos Vassilis J , Gilsdorf Daniel J , Torok Michelle R , Vemulakonda Vijaya M
Published: December 2014

Purpose:

A lack of uniform guidelines regarding ureteropelvic junction obstruction may be associated with demographic variations in pyeloplasty timing. This study objective was to determine if children who undergo surgery are more likely to be of minority race.

Materials and methods:

Children with Society for Fetal Urology (SFU) 3–4 hydronephrosis were reviewed. Demographic and clinical characteristics were abstracted. Bivariable associations between clinical/demographic characteristics and pyeloplasty versus observation as well as follow-up findings were assessed with chi-square testing. The bivariable relationship between race and time from first clinic visit to surgery was evaluated by Kaplan-Meier curve. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to estimate the relationship between clinical characteristics and management decision.

Results:

Thirty-nine patients underwent pyeloplasty and 50 were observed. There were no differences in demographics, including race/ethnicity. Factors associated with surgery included higher SFU grade ( p = 0.01), preoperative MAG3 ( p = 0.02), and T½ >20 ( p = 0.01). On multivariate analysis, MAG3 T½ >20 was associated with surgery (OR = 0.20, 95% CI: 0.07–0.61). Median time to surgery for whites versus non-whites was not significant (232 vs 208 days, p = 0.16).

Conclusions:

In our cohort, the decision to perform pyeloplasty is associated with clinical rather than demographic characteristics. Despite controversy regarding T½ interpretation, delayed radiotracer clearance remained a significant predictor of surgery.
Behavioral Health Screening in Pediatric Primary Care
Authors: Valleley Rachel J. , Romer Natalie , Kupzyk Sara , Evans Joseph H. , Allen Keith D.
Published: December 2014

This pilot study investigated the effect of the Pediatric Symptom Checklist (PSC) on identification of and physician response to behavioral health (BH) concerns. Researchers reviewed 1211 charts of youth aged 4 to 16 years. Records were compared during baseline and an intervention consisting of implementation of the PSC to determine the rate of BH identification and pediatrician response. Access to PSC data resulted in a trivial difference in BH concerns identified by physicians and did not affect physician responses. This case study demonstrates that simply implementing BH screening in primary care may not result in improved outcomes for these children.
Correlates of Low Birth Weight
Authors: Barua Ankur , Hazarika Jayant , Dutta Sudip
Published: December 2014

Background. Low birth weight is the single most important factor that determines the chances of child survival. A recent annual estimation indicated that nearly 8 million infants are born with low birth weight in India. The infant mortality rate is about 20 times greater for all low birth weight babies. Methods. A matched case–control study was conducted on 130 low birth weight babies and 130 controls for 12 months (from August 1, 2007, to July 31, 2008) at the Central Referral Hospital, Tadong, East District of Sikkim, India. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 10.0 for Windows. Chi-square test and multiple logistic regression were applied. A P value less than .05 was considered as significant. Results. In the first phase of this study, 711 newborn babies, borne by 680 mothers, were screened at the Central Referral Hospital of Sikkim during the 1-year study period, and the proportion of low birth weight babies was determined to be 130 (18.3%). Conclusion. Multiple logistic regression analysis, conducted in the second phase, revealed that low or middle socioeconomic status, maternal underweight, twin pregnancy, previous history of delivery of low birth weight babies, smoking and consumption of alcohol during pregnancy, and congenital anomalies had independent significant association with low birth weight in this study population.
Regional Variations in the Provision of Orthodontic Treatment in England and Wales
Authors: Stephens C. D. , Bass T. P.
Published: December 2014

A notable feature of British Orthodontics in recent years has been the enormous increase in the number of cases taken on for treatment by practitioners in the National Health Service. Whilst references have been made in the past to possible regional variations in demand, no effort has been made to relate this to the local child population. The present study attempts this. The familiar North and South difference is found with some discrepancies and an explanation is offered.
The Influence of Pre-surgical Orthodontic Treatment upon the Surgery of Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Maisels D. O.
Published: December 2014

Pre-surgical orthodontics has certain minor undesirable influences upon the surgery. These are the slight delay in the primary lip operation and the need for anterior palate repair in the bilateral case. When balanced against the very considerable advantages however there can be few surgeons who would not willingly accept the drawbacks in the interests of achieving a relatively easy definitive lip repair at the primary operation. One wonders whether there is significance in the fact that most of the criticism of pre-surgical orthodontics has come not from surgeons but from orthodontists who are either unable or unwilling to provide this service for their surgical colleagues and through them for their patients.