bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Celiac Artery Thrombosis and Superior Mesenteric Artery Stenoses with Essential Thrombocythemia: A Case Report
Authors: Keskin Hasan Attila , Yetisir Fahri , Bayram Huseyin , Bayraktaroglu Mehmet Selahattin , Simsek Erdal , Kilic Mehmet , Katircioglu Salih Fehmi
Published: December 2012

Thrombosis of the celiac artery trunk is a rare cause of acute abdominal pain. Thrombosis of the celiac artery carries a high mortality and morbidity when the diagnoses and treatment are delayed. It is frequently associated with other cardiovascular events. The most common etiology is atherosclerosis. 20–30% of cases may have symptoms of chronic mesenteric ischemia. Main goal of the treatment is to reestablish the diminished or stopped mesenteric blood flow and to avoid end-organ ischemia. Essential thrombocythemia is a chronic myeloproliferative disorder characterized by marked increase in thrombocyte number and clinical presentation may be with thrombotic episodes, hemorrhage, or both. To our knowledge this is the first report of celiac artery thrombosis and superior mesenteric artery stenoses in a patient with essential thrombocythemia. The patient was managed successfully with surgical treatment.
Improved Estimators of the Mean of a Normal Distribution with a Known Coefficient of Variation
Authors: Srisodaphol Wuttichai , Tongmol Noppakun
Published: December 2012

This paper is to find the estimators of the meanθfor a normal distribution with meanθand varianceaθ2,a>0,θ>0. These estimators are proposed when the coefficient of variation is known. A mean square error (MSE) is a criterion to evaluate the estimators. The results show that the proposed estimators have preference for asymptotic comparisons. Moreover, the estimator based on jackknife technique has preference over others proposed estimators with some simulations studies.
Evaluation of Genetic Polymorphism ofLeishmania (V.) braziliensisIsolates Obtained from the Same Patient before and after Therapeutic Failure or Reactivation of Cutaneous Lesions
Authors: Baptista Cibele , Schubach Armando de Oliveira , Madeira Maria de Fatima , de Freitas Campos Miranda Luciana , Guimarães de Souza Pinto Andressa , Helena da Silva Barros Juliana , Conceição-Silva Fatima , Fernandes Pimentel Maria Ines , da Silva Pacheco Raquel
Published: December 2012

The aim of this study was to investigate genetic polymorphism inLeishmania braziliensispopulation previously typed through isoenzyme electrophoresis, isolated from the same patient in two different moments: (A) before the beginning of treatment and (B) after treatment failure to meglumine antimoniate or reactivation after successful initial treatment. Fifteen pairs of isolates were assessed using the polymorphic molecular marker LSSP-PCR and following the phenetic analysis. The genetic profiles of the 30 samples were grouped in four clusters. Only two patients presented total identity in the A and B isolates. Most isolates presented similarity coefficients varying from 0.63 to 0.91. In this group of patients genetic polymorphisms could be observed indicating low similarity between the pairs of isolates. The results demonstrate the existence of genetic polymorphism between the samples isolated before treatment and after reactivation or treatment failure, suggesting a possible differentiation of the structure of the original parasite population which could be involved in the mechanisms of resistance to treatment or reactivation of lesions in the ATL. This phenomenon is important, although other factors also could be involved in this context and are discussed in this paper.
Aggressive Adenocarcinoma of the Cervical Esophagus: Importance of a Multidisciplinary Approach
Authors: Fashoyin Adedayo , Hartig Gregory , Schelman William R. , Ritter Mark , Agni Rashmi , Gopal Deepak V. , Pfau Patrick R. , Weiss Jennifer M.
Published: December 2012

Adenocarcinoma of the cervical esophagus is a rare tumor, in comparison to adenocarcinoma of the distal esophagus which is on the rise and is often associated with Barrett's esophagus. We present a case of aggressive cervical esophageal adenocarcinoma in a 46-year-old female with no endoscopic or histopathologic evidence of Barrett’s esophagus. We discuss the possible etiology of this tumor and review the treatment options, highlighting the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to the management of this rare disease.
Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine among People with Multiple Sclerosis in the Nordic Countries
Authors: Skovgaard L. , Nicolajsen P. H. , Pedersen E. , Kant M. , Fredrikson S. , Verhoef M. , Meyrowitsch D. W.
Published: December 2012

Aims. The aim of the study was to describe and compare (1) the types and prevalence of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatments used among individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) in the Nordic countries; (2) the types of conventional treatments besides disease-modifying medicine for MS that were used in combination with CAM treatments; (3) the types of symptoms/health issues addressed by use of CAM treatments.Methods.An internet-based questionnaire was used to collect data from 6455 members of the five Nordic MS societies. The response rates varied from 50.9% in Norway to 61.5% in Iceland.Results. A large range of CAM treatments were reported to be in use in all five Nordic countries. Supplements of vitamins and minerals, supplements of oils, special diet, acupuncture, and herbal medicine were among the CAM treatment modalities most commonly used. The prevalence of the overall use of CAM treatments within the last twelve months varied from 46.0% in Sweden to 58.9% in Iceland. CAM treatments were most often used in combination with conventional treatments. The conventional treatments that were most often combined with CAM treatment were prescription medication, physical therapy, and over-the-counter (OTC) medications. The proportion of CAM users who reported exclusive use of CAM (defined as use of no conventional treatments besides disease-modifying medicine for MS) varied from 9.5% in Finland to 18.4% in Norway. In all five Nordic countries, CAM treatments were most commonly used for nonspecific/preventative purposes such as strengthening the body in general, improving the body’s muscle strength, and improving well-being. CAM treatments were less often used for the purpose of improving specific symptoms such as body pain, problems with balance, and fatigue/lack of energy.Conclusions. A large range of CAM treatments were used by individuals with MS in all Nordic countries. The most commonly reported rationale for CAM treatment use focused on improving the general state of health. The overall pattern of CAM treatment use was similar across the five countries.
A Novel Four‐Dimensional Energy‐Saving and Emission‐Reduction System and Its Linear Feedback Control
Authors: Wang Minggang , Xu Hua
Published: December 2012

This paper reports a new four‐dimensional energy‐saving and emission‐reduction chaotic system. The system is obtained in accordance with the complicated relationship between energy saving and emission reduction, carbon emission, economic growth, and new energy development. The dynamics behavior of the system will be analyzed by means of Lyapunov exponents and equilibrium points. Linear feedback control methods are used to suppress chaos to unstable equilibrium. Numerical simulations are presented to show these results.
Mechanical Response of Al-1.09Mg2Si Alloy under Varying Mould and Thermal Ageing Conditions
Authors: Sekunowo O. I. , Lawal G. I. , Adeosun S. O.
Published: December 2012

Samples of the 6063 (Al-1.09Mg2Si) alloy ingot were melted in a crucible furnace and cast in metal and sand moulds, respectively. Standard tensile, hardness, and microstructural test specimens were prepared from cast samples, solution treated at 520∘C, soaked for 6 hrs, and immediately quenched at ambient temperature in a trough containing water to assume a supersaturated structure. The quenched specimens were then thermally aged at 175∘C for 3–7 hrs. Results show that at different ageing time, varied fractions of precipitates and intermetallics evolved in the specimens’ matrices which affect the resulting mechanical properties. The metal mould specimens aged for four hours (MTA-4) exhibited superior ultimate tensile strength of 247.8 MPa; microhardness, 68.5 HV; elongation, 28.2% . It is concluded that the extent of improvement in mechanical properties depends on the fractions, coherence, and distribution of precipitates along with the type of intermetallics developed in the alloy during ageing process.
Younger Stroke Survivors' Experiences of Family Life in a Long-Term Perspective: A Narrative Hermeneutic Phenomenological Study
Authors: Martinsen Randi , Kirkevold Marit , Sveen Unni
Published: December 2012

The psychosocial consequences following a stroke are known to be challenging, influencing the stroke survivors’ ability to participate in and carry out the taken-for-granted roles and activities in family life. This study explored how living with the consequences of stroke impacted on family life in the late recovery phase, that is, six months or more after stroke onset. Twenty-two stroke survivors aged 20–61 years were interviewed in-depth six months to nine years after stroke onset. The interviews were analyzed applying a narrative, hermeneutic phenomenological approach. The findings revealed challenges that varied with time, from an initial struggle to suffice in and balance the relationships and roles within the family early after the stroke, towards a more resigned attitude later on in the stroke trajectory. The struggles are summarized in two main themes: “struggling to reenter the family” and “screaming for acceptance.” Nonestablished people living with stroke and stroke survivors in parental roles seem to be particularly vulnerable. Being provided with opportunities to narrate their experiences to interested and qualified persons outside the home context might be helpful to prevent psychosocial problems.
Impact of Nitrogen Fertilizer Applications on Surface Water Nitrate Levels within a Kenyan Tea Plantation
Authors: Maghanga J. K. , Kituyi J. L. , Kisinyo P. O. , Ng’etich W. K.
Published: December 2012

Tea production in the Kenyan Rift Valley uses high rates of nitrogenous fertilizer. Nitrates can be discharged to water bodies through leaching and surface run‐off. Nitrate levels above 10 mg/L –N cause methemoglobinemia which is fatal. A study to monitor changes in surface water nitrate levels was carried out in ten rivers within a Kenyan tea plantation for three years. Water samples were obtained before and after fertilizer application in 2004, 2005, and 2006. Nitrate‐nitrogen (–N) was determined colorimetrically by the cadmium reduction method using HACH‐DR 2400 dataloging spectrophotometer. For the three years, the highest nitrate‐nitrogen levels were in river Temochewa in 2005 during the first fertilizer applications (4.9 mg/L to 8.2 mg/L). There was no established trend between surface water nitrate levels and the time of fertilizer applications; however, fertilizer application contributed to an increase in nitrate levels. The initial nitrate‐nitrogen levels in most of the rivers were high, indicating that contamination could have been upstream; hence, further research is required to establish this. Nitrogen‐nitrogen levels in the three years were below the maximum contaminant level of 10 mg/L –N; however, the rivers should be monitored frequently.
The Mechanical Bidomain Model: A Review
Authors: Roth Bradley J.
Published: December 2012

The mechanical bidomain model is a new mathematical description of the elastic behavior of cardiac tissue. Its primary advantage over previous models is that it accounts for forces acting across the cell membrane arising from differences in the displacement of the intracellular and extracellular spaces. In this paper, I describe the development of the mechanical bidomain model. I emphasize new predictions of the model, such as the existence of boundary layers at the tissue surface where the membrane forces are large, and pressure differences between the intracellular and extracellular spaces. Although the theoretical analysis is quite mathematical, I highlight the types of experiments that could be used to test the model predictions. Finally, I present open questions about the mechanical bidomain model that may be productive future directions for research.
Wrist Actigraphy Predicts Outcome in Patients with Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Ulrich Silvia , Fischler Manuel , Speich Rudolf , Bloch Konrad E.
Published: December 2012

Background: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) impairs quality of life, exercise performance and survival. Simple measures to monitor the disease are needed. Objectives: We tested whether actigraphy by a wrist-worn device in the patient's home reflects disease severity in PH patients. Methods: Twenty-three outpatients with pulmonary arterial and chronic thromboembolic PH (15 females), functional classes II-IV, underwent clinical examination and actigraphy over 2 weeks while pursuing their usual life at home. Actigraphies were correlated with clinical data and mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP). Deaths, lung transplantations and pulmonary endarterectomy were recorded over 4 years. Results: Actigraphies revealed a mean ± SD daytime activity duration of 14:57 ± 1:14 h with 146 ± 125 activity counts/min. Very severely impaired patients (mPAP 50 ± 7 mm Hg) were inactive for longer periods at night (8:25 ± 1:18 h) and less active during the day (54 ± 44 counts/min) when compared to modestly impaired patients (mPAP 33 ± 7 mm Hg; inactive at night for 6:58 ± 0:39 h; daytime activity 229 ± 148 counts/min, p < 0.05 in all instances). Out of 19 patients followed for 4 years, 5 died and 1 received a lung transplantation. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed a shorter survival without lung transplantation in patients with a duration of daytime activity of <15 h/day than those with >15 h/day duration (log rank, p = 0.026). Conclusion: A long nocturnal rest and reduced daytime activity recorded by actigraphy are associated with severe hemodynamic impairment and reduced survival in patients with PH. Therefore, wrist actigraphy performed during everyday life in the patient's home holds promise as a simple tool for the assessment of disease severity and prognosis in patients with PH.
Exertional Desaturation as a Predictor of Rapid Lung Function Decline in COPD
Authors: Kim Changhwan , Seo Joon Beom , Lee Sang Min , Lee Jae Seung , Huh Jin Won , Lee Jin Hwa , Ra Seung Won , Lee Ji-Hyun , Kim Eun-Kyung , Kim Tae-Hyung , Kim Woo Jin , Lee Sang-Min , Lee Sang Yeub , Lim Seong Yong , Shin Tae Rim , Yoon Ho Il , Sheen Seung Soo , Oh Yeon-Mok , Park Yong Bum , Lee Sang-Do
Published: December 2012

Background: To date, no clinical parameter has been associated with the decline in lung function other than emphysema severity in COPD. Objectives: The main purpose of this study was to explore whether the rate of lung function decline differs between COPD patients with and without exertional desaturation. Methods: A total of 224 subjects were selected from the Korean Obstructive Lung Disease cohort. Exertional desaturation was assessed using the 6-min walk test (6MWT), and defined as a post-exercise oxygen saturation (SpO2) of <90% or a ≥4% decrease. The cohort was divided into desaturator (n = 47) and non-desaturator (n = 177) groups. Results: There was a significant difference between the desaturator and non-desaturator groups in terms of the change in pre-bronchodilator forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) over a 3-year period of follow-up (p = 0.006). The mean rate of decline in FEV1 was greater in the desaturator group (33.8 ml/year) than in the non-desaturator group (11.6 ml/year). A statistically significant difference was also observed between the two groups in terms of the change in the St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) total score over 3 years (p = 0.001). Conclusions: This study suggests, for the first time, that exertional desaturation may be a predictor of rapid decline in lung function in patients with COPD. The 6MWT may be a useful test to predict a rapid lung function decline in COPD.
Efficacy and Safety of Clinical Use of Etanercept for the Treatment of Moderate-to-Severe Psoriasis in Spain: Results of a Multicentric Prospective Study at 12 Months Follow-Up
Authors: Puig Lluís , Camacho Martínez Francisco Miguel , Gimeno Carpio Enrique , López-Ávila Angel , García-Calvo Carmen
Published: December 2012

Background: The efficacy of etanercept in the treatment of psoriasis has been demonstrated in several clinical trials, but information regarding results derived from prospective observational studies in clinical practice is scarce. Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of etanercept administration according to routine clinical use in moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. Materials and Methods: Postauthorization, prospective study, carried out at 59 dermatology units in Spain. Patients diagnosed with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis received etanercept during a 12-month period. Results: Altogether, 444 patients were enrolled. Overall, 325 patients (73.2%) initiated etanercept treatment at a dose of 50 mg twice weekly; 96 patients (21.6%) received etanercept as a continuous regimen for the entire study period, and 348 patients (79.4%) an intermittent regimen. Among these, 185 patients (41.6% overall) received one course of treatment, stopped at various study points and did not restart etanercept treatment, whereas the remaining 163 patients (36.7% overall) stopped etanercept treatment, lost response, relapsed and were retreated. Most patients who interrupted etanercept treatment did so at month 6. Altogether, 79.7% of patients completed the study period. Etanercept treatment resulted in significant improvement in disease activity. A Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) 75 response was achieved by 76.1% of patients at month 6. Out of 252 adverse events reported, 31 were considered severe. Three possibly treatment-related malignancies were detected during the study. No opportunistic infections, tuberculosis or demyelinating events were reported. Conclusion: The PASI 75 response rate at month 6 in this observational, naturalistic study is similar to those observed in recent published trials with etanercept, and within the range of those reported for other marketed biologicals.
Sino-Nasal Outcome Test Tool Assessment in Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis and Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Lachanas Vasileios A. , Woodard Troy D. , Antisdel Jastin L. , Kountakis Stilianos E.
Published: December 2012

Objective: The Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-20) is a rhinosinusitis quality of life instrument. Nonrhinologic illnesses like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may elevate SNOT-20 scores. We compared SNOT-20 outcomes in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) to those in patients with OSA. Methods: We analyzed prospectively collected data of patients with CRS and OSA. Pretreatment SNOT-20 and Lund-Kennedy endoscopy scores were obtained. Scores and patterns of SNOT-20 symptom distribution were compared. Results: Fifty-seven patients had CRS and 65 patients had OSA. Both groups had elevated mean total SNOT-20 scores (28 ± 12.2 and 29 ± 10.7, respectively). Higher scores were noticed for OSA patients on the wellness section of the SNOT-20 and for CRS patients on the sinonasal section of the SNOT-20 (p < 0.001). Conclusions: CRS and OSA patients present with elevated total SNOT-20 scores but differ in their symptom distribution pattern. This study demonstrates that other disorders can elevate SNOT-20 scores and confirms the need for additional objective data to confirm CRS diagnosis.
Phase I Trial of Gemcitabine Combined with Capecitabine and Erlotinib in Advanced Pancreatic Cancer: A Clinical and Pharmacological Study
Authors: Francois E. , Bennouna J. , Chamorey E. , Etienne-Grimaldi M.C. , Renée N. , Senellart H. , Michel C. , Follana P. , Mari V. , Douillard J.Y. , Milano G.
Published: December 2012

Background: The aim of this phase I trial was to define the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), the dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) and the recommended dose of erlotinib combined with capecitabine and gemcitabine in the treatment of advanced pancreatic cancer (APC). Methods: Gemcitabine was administered intravenously at 1,000 mg/m2/week (days 1, 8 and 15) and oral capecitabine from day 1 to day 21 at 1,660 mg/m2/day. Oral erlotinib was administered daily continuously at escalating doses (28-day cycle). Dose levels (DLs) 1, 2, 3 and 4 were 50, 75, 100 and 125 mg/day, respectively. Pharmacokinetic analysis of the three drugs was performed in the first cycle. Results: Nineteen patients were enrolled. At the MTD (DL4; 125 mg/day erlotinib), 100% of patients developed DLT consisting of grade 4 febrile neutropenia and nonhematological grade 3 events (vomiting, diarrhea, stomatitis, rash). The most common toxicities, regardless of grade, were neutropenia, anemia, rash and diarrhea. Erlotinib systemic exposure was significantly related to the administered dose. Of note, toxicity was significantly associated with elevated systemic exposure of capecitabine anabolites. Conclusion: When combined concurrently with 1,000 mg/m2/week gemcitabine and 1,660 mg/m2/day capecitabine, erlotinib can be administered safely at a daily dose of 100 mg in APC patients.
Short-Term Effects of High-Dose Khat on Sperm Parameters and Reproductive Hormonal Levels in Olive Baboons (Papio anubis)
Authors: Nyachieo Atunga , Kiraithe Muthamia M. , Spiessens Carl , Chai Daniel C. , Kiulia Nicholas M. , D'Hooghe Thomas M. , Mwenda Jason M.
Published: December 2012

The biological effects of khat (Catha edulis) on reproduction and fertility are inadequately investigated and controversial, hence we determined the effects of oral administration of high-dose khat on sperm parameters and male hormonal levels in olive baboons. In this study, 6 male baboons received a high dose of khat (500 g/week) during 1 month. Electroejaculation for sperm studies (concentration, motility and chromatin integrity) and plasma collection for hormonal analysis (testosterone, prolactin and cortisol) were done weekly during 1 month before and 1 month during khat administration as well as 2 weeks after the last dose of khat administration. Administration of khat extract induced a significant reduction in sperm motility (p = 0.008), sperm count (p = 0.041), sperm chromatin integrity (p = 0.0003), testosterone levels (p = 0.035) and prolactin levels (p = 0.0115), but not in cortisol levels and sperm volume (p > 0.05). The results suggest that high-dose khat decreases sperm quality and testosterone and hence may contribute to male infertility.
Retrospective Analysis of Risk Factors for Central Nervous System Metastases in Operable Breast Cancer: Effects of Biologic Subtype and Ki67 Overexpression on Survival
Authors: Ishihara Mikiya , Mukai Hirofumi , Nagai Shunji , Onozawa Masakatsu , Nihei Keiji , Shimada Toshiyuki , Wada Noriaki
Published: December 2012

Objective: Identifying factors that predispose patients to central nervous system (CNS) metastases may hasten disease detection and improve treatment outcomes. Methods: We reviewed the records of patients who were diagnosed with clinical stage I–III primary breast cancer at the National Cancer Center Hospital East from 2003 to 2005. Cox proportional hazard models were fitted to reveal risk factors for CNS metastases. Results: The median follow-up period after the operation was 53.5 months. Among the 591 identified patients with breast cancer, 76 experienced a relapse. Seventeen patients developed CNS metastases. Multivariate analysis indicated that the triple negative (TN) subtype (hazard ratio = 5.5) and a high Ki67 labeling index (LI; hazard ratio = 3.9) were associated with a higher risk for CNS metastases. At 4 years, the TN subtype was associated with significantly worse overall and disease-free survival rates and a higher cumulative incidence of CNS metastases compared with hormone receptor-positive/ human epidermal growth factor receptor-2-negative tumors. Breast cancers with a Ki67 LI ≥30% were also associated with lower overall and disease-free survival rates and a higher cumulative incidence of CNS metastases compared with cancers with a Ki67 LI <30%. Conclusion: TN or Ki67-overexpressing breast cancer produced earlier CNS metastases and lower disease-free and overall survival rates.
Effects of Carperitide on Contrast-Induced Acute Kidney Injury with a Minimum Volume of Contrast in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients
Authors: Okumura Naoki , Hayashi Mutsuharu , Imai Enyu , Ishii Hideki , Yoshikawa Daiji , Yasuda Yoshinari , Goto Motomitsu , Matsuo Seiichi , Oiso Yutaka , Murohara Toyoaki
Published: December 2012

Background/Aims: Although contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CIAKI) is a major complication associated with angiography, the prophylaxis is not well established. Use of a low dose of carperitide for preventing CIAKI remains controversial. We examined the protective effect of carperitide on CIAKI after coronary angiography with a small contrast volume in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients with coronary artery disease. Methods: We randomly assigned 112 consecutive patients to a carperitide or a control group. The contrast volume was kept under 150 ml. The primary endpoint was the incidence of CIAKI defined by a serum creatinine of ≥25% or a serum creatinine of ≥0.5 mg/dl from baseline within 48 h. The secondary endpoint was a change in renal function at 1 week after the procedure. Results: The baseline characteristics and contrast volumes (carperitide group: 67.4 ± 38.2 ml vs. control group: 64.8 ± 20.5 ml, p = 0.661) were comparable in the two groups. The incidence of CIAKI was similar in the two groups (carperitide group: 8.5% vs. control group: 5.7%, p = 0.564). A multivariate analysis revealed that a hypotension ≥20 mm Hg was a significant predictor of developing CIAKI in the carperitide group (p = 0.015). The incidence of CIAKI in the carperitide group without hypotension was rare, but not significantly different (carperitide group: 2.4% vs. control group: 5.7%, p = 0.432). Conclusions: This study indicated that the use of a small contrast volume suppressed the incidence of CIAKI and that carperitide had no prophylactic effect against CIAKI. Our results also revealed the impact of hypotension on the development of CIAKI in the carperitide group.
A Population-Based Study to Evaluate the Effectiveness of Multidisciplinary Heart Failure Clinics and Identify Important Service Components
Authors: Wijeysundera Harindra C. , Trubiani Gina , Wang Xuesong , Mitsakakis Nicholas , Austin Peter C. , Ko Dennis T. , Lee Douglas S. , Tu Jack V. , Krahn Murray
Published: December 2012

Background—

Multidisciplinary heart failure (HF) clinics are efficacious in clinical trials. Our objectives were to compare real-world outcomes of patients with HF treated in HF clinics versus usual therapy and identify HF clinic features associated with improved outcomes.

Methods and Results—

The service components at all HF clinics in Ontario, Canada, were quantified using a validated instrument and categorized as high/medium/low intensity. We used propensity-scores to match HF clinic and control patients discharged alive after a HF readmission in 2006–2007. Outcomes were mortality, and both all-cause and HF readmission. Cox-proportional hazard models were used to evaluate HF clinic-level characteristics associated with improved outcomes. We identified 14 468 patients with HF, of whom 1288 were seen in HF clinics. Within 4 years of follow-up, 52.1% of patients treated at a HF clinic died versus 54.7% of control patients (
P
=0.02). Patients treated at HF clinics had increased readmissions (87.4% versus 86.6% for all-cause [
P
=0.009]; 58.7% versus 47.3% for HF related [
P
<0.001]). There was no difference between high, medium, or low intensity clinics in terms of mortality, all-cause, or HF readmissions. HF clinics with greater frequency of visits (>4 contacts of significant duration for 6 months) were associated with lower mortality (hazard ratio, 0.14;
P
<0.0001) and hospitalization (hazard ratio, 0.69;
P
=0.039). More intensive medication management was associated with lower all-cause (hazard ratio, 0.46;
P
<0.001) and HF readmission (hazard ratio, 0.42;
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

In this real-world population-based study, we found that multidisciplinary HF clinics are associated with a decrease in mortality, but an increase in readmissions.
Genetic and Pharmacological Inhibition of Galectin-3 Prevents Cardiac Remodeling by Interfering With Myocardial Fibrogenesis
Authors: Yu Lili , Ruifrok Willem P.T. , Meissner Maxi , Bos Eelke M. , van Goor Harry , Sanjabi Bahram , van der Harst Pim , Pitt Bertram , Goldstein Irwin J. , Koerts Jasper A. , van Veldhuisen Dirk J. , Bank Ruud A. , van Gilst Wiek H. , Silljé Herman H.W. , de Boer Rudolf A.
Published: December 2012

Background—

Galectin-3 has been implicated in the development of organ fibrosis. It is unknown whether it is a relevant therapeutic target in cardiac remodeling and heart failure.

Methods and Results—

Galectin-3 knock-out and wild-type mice were subjected to angiotensin II infusion (2.5 µg/kg for 14 days) or transverse aortic constriction for 28 days to provoke cardiac remodeling. The efficacy of the galectin-3 inhibitor N-acetyllactosamine was evaluated in TGR(mREN2)27 (REN2) rats and in wild-type mice with the aim of reversing established cardiac remodeling after transverse aortic constriction. In wild-type mice, angiotensin II and transverse aortic constriction perturbations caused left-ventricular (LV) hypertrophy, decreased fractional shortening, and increased LV end-diastolic pressure and fibrosis (
P
<0.05 versus control wild type). Galectin-3 knock-out mice also developed LV hypertrophy but without LV dysfunction and fibrosis (
P
=NS). In REN2 rats, pharmacological inhibition of galectin-3 attenuated LV dysfunction and fibrosis. To elucidate the beneficial effects of galectin-3 inhibition on myocardial fibrogenesis, cultured fibroblasts were treated with galectin-3 in the absence or presence of galectin-3 inhibitor. Inhibition of galectin-3 was associated with a downregulation in collagen production (collagen I and III), collagen processing, cleavage, cross-linking, and deposition. Similar results were observed in REN2 rats. Inhibition of galectin-3 also attenuated the progression of cardiac remodeling in a long-term transverse aortic constriction mouse model.

Conclusions—

Genetic disruption and pharmacological inhibition of galectin-3 attenuates cardiac fibrosis, LV dysfunction, and subsequent heart failure development. Drugs binding to galectin-3 may be potential therapeutic candidates for the prevention or reversal of heart failure with extensive fibrosis.
Acute Kidney Injury Following Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery and Long-term Risk of Heart Failure
Authors: Olsson Daniel , Sartipy Ulrik , Braunschweig Frieder , Holzmann Martin J.
Published: December 2012

Background—

Acute kidney injury (AKI) after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is common and increases the risk of postoperative complications and mortality. There is little information on the association between AKI after CABG and long-term risk of incident heart failure (HF).

Methods and Results—

All patients (n=24 018) undergoing primary, isolated CABG in Sweden between 2000 and 2008 with complete information on pre- and postoperative serum creatinine values, and no prior hospitalization for HF were included. The postoperative increase in serum creatinine was used to define different stages of AKI: stage 1, 0.3 to 0.5 mg/dL; stage 2, 0.5 to 1 mg/dL; stage 3, >1 mg/dL. Hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals were calculated for first hospitalization for HF for each stage of AKI using Cox proportional hazards regression. Twelve percent of the study population developed AKI. During a mean follow-up of 4.1 years, there were 1325 cases (5.5%) of incident HF. Hazard ratios with 95% confidence interval for HF in AKI stage 1, 2, and 3 were 1.60 (1.34–1.92), 1.87 (1.54–2.27), and 1.98 (1.53–2.57), respectively, after multivariable adjustment for age, sex, diabetes mellitus, estimated glomerular filtration rate, left ventricular ejection fraction, and myocardial infarction before surgery or during follow-up.

Conclusions—

AKI is associated with increased long-term risk of HF after CABG. Patients with AKI after CABG should be followed closely to detect early changes in cardiac function.
Soluble Glycoprotein 130 Predicts Fatal Outcomes in Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Askevold Erik Tandberg , Nymo Ståle , Ueland Thor , Gravning Jørgen , Wergeland Ragnhild , Kjekshus John , Yndestad Arne , Cleland John G.F. , McMurray John J.V. , Aukrust Pål , Gullestad Lars
Published: December 2012

Background—

Glycoprotein 130 (gp130) is the common signal-transducing receptor subunit of the interleukin-6 (IL-6) family, which may be involved in the progression of heart failure (HF). We hypothesized that soluble gp130 would provide prognostic information beyond that of IL-6 in a population with HF from the Controlled Rosuvastatin Multinational Trial in Heart Failure (CORONA).

Methods and Results—

The associations of soluble gp130 and IL-6 with morbidity, mortality, and mode of death were assessed by immunoassays in a subset of 1452 patients enrolled in the CORONA trial, which included patients with HF, aged ≥60 years, in New York Heart Association classes II to IV, who had ischemic heart disease and a reduced left ventricular ejection fraction. In multivariable analyses, including C-reactive protein, IL-6, troponin T, and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide, elevated soluble gp130 (fifth quintile versus all lower quintiles) was associated with all-cause mortality (hazard ratio, 1.47 [1.11–1.93];
P
=0.006), cardiovascular mortality (hazard ratio, 1.38 [1.01–1.87];
P
=0.042), and death from worsening HF (hazard ratio, 1.85 [1.09–3.14];
P
=0.002), but not with the primary end point (composite of death from cardiovascular causes, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and nonfatal stroke; hazard ratio, 1.12 [0.84–1.50];
P
=0.44). Plasma IL-6 was not associated with outcomes in multivariable analyses.

Conclusions—

Marked elevations in soluble gp130 are associated with total and cardiovascular mortality, as well as deaths from worsening HF, in elderly patients with HF of ischemic cause

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00206310.
The Interconnection between Intellectual Achievement and Self-Control
Authors: Boisvert Danielle , Stadler William , Vaske Jamie , Wright John P. , Nelson Matthew
Published: December 2012

Low self-control has emerged as a strong predictor of criminal conduct and analogous behaviors. Questions remain, however, as to the origins of self-control. Whereas some argue it is a trait instilled solely through a process of parental socialization, more recent research has suggested the possibility that self-control is interconnected with many executive functions deriving from the prefrontal cortex of the brain. Using data from the Child Development Supplement of the Panel Study of Income Dynamics ( N = 2,104), this study assesses the degree to which self-control is linked with intellectual achievement in childhood and adolescence. Results from Poisson regression analyses indicate that intellectual achievement is significantly related to variations in self-control, controlling for a variety of parenting measures; age, race, and gender; and previous levels of self-control. A discussion of the relationship between intellectual achievement and self-control is provided.
Predicting Success in a Large Sample of Federal Pretrial Offenders
Authors: Fennessy Matthew , Huss Matthew T.
Published: December 2012

The present study analyzed a host of risk variables related to successful completion of a federal pretrial release program within a large and demographically diverse sample of pretrial defendants. Significant differences were found between variables predicting overall success of pretrial release, including a history of failures to appear and escape behavior. Logistic regressions revealed differences among certain ethnic groups for predicting successful outcome, with Whites significantly more likely than Blacks to succeed. Differences in contributing variables were also found between ethnic groups. Implications for future studies of general risk assessment across ethnic groups are discussed.
What Are “Great Books” in the Study of Public Administration? Some Polemic Thoughts About the Surveys of Sherwood and Kasdan
Authors: Raadschelders Jos C. N.
Published: December 2012

In this article, the author reflects upon the two “Great Books” articles that were published in Public Administration Review (1990) and in Administration & Society (2012). In Sherwood’s article, the top-five books all presented an original argument, contributed to the intellectual development of the study of public administration, and had lasting influence. The same cannot be said for some of the books in Kasdan’s top five list. Some of the respondents with both Sherwood and Kasdan wondered whether books are still the primary and critical main medium of influence. This author believes that it is the type of research and argument that determines what venue (article or book) is the most suitable. To state that articles are more important may be true in terms of quantity, but does not imply that it represents original research.
Exploring the Role of School Engagement in Predicting Resilience Among Bahamian Youth
Authors: Jones Giavana , Lafreniere Kathryn
Published: December 2012

In the simplest terms, resilience is doing better than expected, particularly given the presence of some disadvantage that threatens positive outcomes. Like many other countries worldwide, The Bahamas has areas of poverty that provide many challenges for families raising children. Although the consequences of poverty are rampant, not all the youth who are raised in these conditions succumb to these effects. This study sought to identify the internal and external factors that are predictive of resilience in a sample of 103 urban Bahamian students. Ninth- and 11th-grade students from two local public schools completed surveys. Of special interest to this study was the relationship between school engagement and resilience. Although school engagement was significantly positively related to resilience, it was overshadowed by other factors when included in the resilience regression model. Relationships with parents and nonparental adults, involvement in meaningful activity, and self-efficacy were significant predictors of resilience in this sample of urban Bahamian students.
The Urban–Rural Divide and Food Sovereignty in India
Authors: Tom Angotti
Published: December 2012

India is the second-largest nation in the world, with a population of 1.2 billion. As China rapidly urbanizes, India has become the last of the large nations where village life and traditional farm production survive. While weakened by neoliberal reforms, many government policies continue to support rural institutions. This article addresses the question: Could India become the most prominent exception to the trend that over the last century transformed the United States, Russia, Brazil, and most recently China, from rural to urban nations? If current trends continue, India could join many other nations in Asia and Africa that have shut the door on the possibility of alternative development scenarios that integrate urban and rural life, promote food sovereignty, and reduce their ecological footprints. However, if India’s dynamic and diverse social movements have their way, another world may be possible.
Beyond the Equator There Are No Sins
Authors: Ndlovu-Gatsheni Sabelo J.
Published: December 2012

The phenomenon of violence has pervaded African people’s lives across precolonial, colonial, and postcolonial historical epochs. While it is easy to codify manifestations of violence such as precolonial raiding, colonial wars of conquest, and nationalist resistance wars, there are many other forms whose logic is harder to understand, such as terrorism, xenophobia, racist-inspired violence, criminality, rape, torture, and maiming. This study deploys the concept of coloniality of being, as advanced by Nelson Maldonado-Torres, in combination with Frantz Fanon’s notion of the “damnes” and Slavoj Zizek’s ideas of subjective, objective, and symbolic violence, as important conceptual tools to explore the logic of violence in African history from the time of colonial encounters to the present. The study locates the logic of violence in coloniality and its reproduction of African subjectivities where race was used not only to “inferiorize” black people into “damnes” but also to deny their very humanity so as to justify such forms of violence as slavery, colonial conquest, dispossession, imprisonment, rape, shooting, and killing. African nationalism as a deeply interpellated phenomenon reproduced colonial violence and authoritarianism, bequeathing it on postcolonial Africa as a mode of governance. While the key concern of this study is to explain the logic of violence, its central arguments are empirically proven through the case studies of Congo under King Leopold II, where violence was used as a mode of governance; the Herero people who became victims of German colonial genocide; and South Africa where “neo-apartheid social fascism” recreated black townships as crouching villages of violence and civil tension.
The Social Science of Empire
Authors: David Lempert
Published: December 2012

This essay both advocates and presents the research agenda for an interdisciplinary approach to a social science of empire, using, as its springboard, the review of four new books offered by three US publishers, linked in an endeavor called the “American Empire Project.” It begins with a historic look at gaps and politicization in the study of empire. The piece then presents a research agenda that would comprise the social science study of empire, with review of work to date that remains in its infancy in largely unconnected research across several disciplines. The review also examines the approach of the four works, noting their contributions within limited confines of historical time frame, case study methodology, author ideologies, and disciplinary focus.
Geographical patterns of Corine land cover diversity across Europe
Authors: Kallimanis Athanasios S. , Koutsias Nikos
Published: December 2012

Land cover diversity is often used as a surrogate of habitat heterogeneity. Nevertheless, its spatial pattern has received limited attention. Here, we examine Corine land cover diversity patterns across Europe, and test (1) if geographical (longitudinal, latitudinal) gradients exist, (2) if the scale of analysis (and specifically the grain of analysis) influences the patterns, and (3) if the thematic resolution affects the results. We estimated diversity landscape metrics for 2818 locations throughout Europe. We analysed the spatial pattern at five grains (0.25, 1, 25, 100 and 625 km2), and for three hierarchical levels of the Corine Land Cover 2000 classification scheme. To account for spatial autocorrelation, we used Clifford’s test. Latitude was significantly correlated with land cover diversity (once spatial autocorrelation was taken into account) only at large grain sizes. Longitude, with a few exceptions at fine grain, was not correlated to land cover diversity. The spatial pattern of land cover diversity is scale-dependent, with spatial pattern at fine grain (<1 km2) being statistically independent of the pattern at large grain (625 km2). Also the grain of the analysis affected the spatial autocorrelation of land cover diversity. Fine grain analysis displayed autocorrelation, but over short (hundreds of kilometres) distances, while large grain analysis displayed autocorrelation over longer distances (thousands of kilometres). Increasing the detail of the thematic resolution seems to have effects similar to increasing the grain size. The thematic resolution in certain cases influenced the results qualitatively and thus inference from low-resolution landscape analysis should be done with caution.
Lack of association between the MTHFR C677T variant and migraine with aura in an older population: Could selective survival play a role?
Authors: Scher Ann I , Eiriksdottir Gudny , Garcia Melissa , Feit Preethy , Smith Albert V , Harris Tamara B , Roecklein Kathryn A , Gudmundsson Larus S , Gudnason Vilmundur , Launer Lenore J
Published: December 2012

Background:

Several studies, but not all, of primarily middle-aged or younger adults have suggested that the common MTHFR C677T variant is a genetic risk factor for migraine with aura (MA). Here, we consider whether this variant is associated with MA risk in an older non-clinical population (AGES-Reykjavik cohort).

Methods:

Participants are a sub-sample ( n = 1976) of subjects from the Reykjavik Study (RS; mean age 50) and its continuation, AGES-RS (mean age 76). We estimated the relative odds of MA in TT versus CC carriers using multinomial logistic regression. As both MA and the TT genotype may be linked with modestly reduced longevity, we performed a simple simulation to illustrate the effect that selective survival may have had on our observed gene–disease association.

Results:

TT versus CC carriers were at marginally reduced odds of MA (ORTT 0.55 (0.3–1.0), p = 0.07), significantly for women (ORTT 0.45 (0.2–0.9), p = 0.03). Assuming the ‘true’ (e.g. mid-life) effect of the TT genotype is ORTT 1.26, from a recent meta-analysis, our simulation suggested that if 25-year mortality had been (hypothetically) 13% higher in MA subjects with the TT versus CC genotype, the measured effect of the TT genotype on MA would have been attenuated to non-significance (e.g. ORTT 1.00). Our observed protective effect was consistent with the most extreme selective mortality scenario, in which essentially all of the previously reported increased mortality in MA subjects was (hypothetically) found in CT or TT carriers.

Conclusion:

The MTHFR 677TT genotype was associated with marginally reduced risk of MA in our older population. Our simulation illustrated how even modest selective survival might obscure the apparent effect of a genetic or other risk factor in older populations. We speculate that some of the heterogeneity previously observed for this particular genetic variant may be due to age range differences in the studied populations.
Bismaleimide/preceramic polymer blends for hybrid material transition regions
Authors: McKellar Bernard R. , Venkat Narayanan , Safriet Sirina , Brown Janis M. , Unroe Marilyn R. , Bechel Vernon , Fossum Eric
Published: December 2012

The problem of phase separation in polycarbosilane (Starfire resin)–Matrimid thermoset blend structures, designed for thermal protection applications, was addressed in this study. The structural design of the compatibilizers synthesized via a hydrosilylation–deprotection sequence was primarily based on a polymer structure with a nonpolar segment consisting of a carbosilane unit and a polar segment with a bisphenol-type moiety. Besides the homopolymer, block copolymers with varying contents of the polycarbosilane unit and the bisphenol A unit were synthesized and characterized. Curing experiments on the blends of Starfire resin–Matrimid incorporating 1–5% of the compatibilizers were performed followed by morphological characterization of the cured resin plaques. The effectiveness of the compatibilizers was assessed by the StarFire domain size and the distribution of cured specimens was examined in the scanning electron micrographs. Results indicated that the compatibilizers that were more effective in minimizing phase separation were relatively more polar and comprised a larger fraction of the phenolic functional units. In fact, the blend composition incorporating 5% of the homopolymer compatibilizer with the largest fraction of the polar bisphenol A unit was highly effective in providing a homogeneous distribution of very small StarFire domains, that is, fairly uniform domain sizes of the order of 5 µm or less.