bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Natural History and Factors Associated with Early and Delayed Mortality in HIV-Infected Patients Treated of Tuberculosis under Directly Observed Treatment Short-Course Strategy: A Prospective Cohort Study in India
Authors: Alvarez-Uria Gerardo , Naik Praveen Kumar , Pakam Raghavakalyan , Bachu Lakshminaryana , Midde Manoranjan
Published: December 2012

Despite the impressive global results of DOTS in India, the effectiveness of DOTS for the treatment of tuberculosis in HIV-infected patients is not well known. This is an observational prospective cohort study performed in Anantapur District, Andhra Pradesh, India. The study included 1000 DOTS antituberculosis treatment (ATT) episodes and 840 person-years. CD4 lymphocyte count was below 200 cells/mm3in 77% of the cases, and 21% were retreatments. Two thirds were presented with extrapulmonary tuberculosis, and the most common form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis was tuberculous meningitis followed by pleuritis, abdominal tuberculosis, and lymphadenitis. Cumulative incidence of mortality was 16%, 26%, 39%, and 46% at 1, 3, 12, and 24 months, respectively. Factors associated with three-month (early) mortality were being homeless, having low CD4+ lymphocyte count, having tuberculous meningitis, belonging to a socially disadvantaged community, having more than 35 years, and being on an antiretroviral therapy at the moment of initiating the ATT. Factors associated with delayed mortality were having low CD4+ lymphocyte count, belonging to a socially disadvantaged community, receiving a category II ATT because of a previous episode of ATT and having acid fast bacilli in sputum before the ATT initiation. These findings indicate that there is an urgent need to improve the treatment of tuberculosis in HIV-infected patients in India.
Effects of EDTA and Boric Acid on the Morphology of CaCO3 Particles
Authors: Shi Xingbo , Wang Julin , Cai Xiaoping
Published: December 2012

Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) particles with different morphologies were prepared using calcium chloride (CaCl2) and sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) aqueous solutions containing various amounts of ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) or boric acid. The products were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The sphere‐like CaCO3 particle was inclined to be formed in EDTA or boric acid solution at room temperature. The surface of CaCO3 is smooth in the presence of EDTA, and the crystal structure of CaCO3 is majorly vaterite. However, the CaCO3 has a rough surface in boric acid solution and pure calcite structure. The size of CaCO3 particle decreases with the increase in the amount of EDTA or boric acid.
Application of Phosphoproteomics to Find Targets of Casein Kinase 1 in the Flagellum ofChlamydomonas
Authors: Boesger Jens , Wagner Volker , Weisheit Wolfram , Mittag Maria
Published: December 2012

The green biflagellate algaChlamydomonas reinhardtiiserves as model for studying structural and functional features of flagella. The axoneme ofC. reinhardtiianchors a network of kinases and phosphatases that control motility. One of them, Casein Kinase 1 (CK1), is known to phosphorylate the Inner Dynein Arm I1 Intermediate Chain 138 (IC138), thereby regulating motility. CK1 is also involved in regulating the circadian rhythm of phototaxis and is relevant for the formation of flagella. By a comparative phosphoproteome approach, we determined phosphoproteins in the flagellum that are targets of CK1. Thereby, we applied the specific CK1 inhibitor CKI-7 that causes significant changes in the flagellum phosphoproteome and reduces the swimming velocity of the cells. In the CKI-7-treated cells, 14 phosphoproteins were missing compared to the phosphoproteome of untreated cells, including IC138, and four additional phosphoproteins had a reduced number of phosphorylation sites. Notably, inhibition of CK1 causes also novel phosphorylation events, indicating that it is part of a kinase network. Among them, Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 is of special interest, because it is involved in the phosphorylation of key clock components in flies and mammals and in parallel plays an important role in the regulation of assembly in the flagellum.
A Warehouse Imperfect Fuzzified Production Model with Shortages under Inflationary Conditions
Authors: Singh S. R. , Jain Shalini , Pareek Sarla
Published: December 2012

We develop a two-warehouse production model with imperfect items. Production rate is taken as the linear combination of on-hand inventory and demand, while demand rate is taken as function of time. Most of the researchers consider that the production rate is independent from the demand rate. In this paper we assume production rate as being dependent on the demand rate, and this assumption is more realistic. Shortages are allowed and partially backlogged with time-dependent backlogging rate. Due to different preservation facilities we consider that the deterioration rate is time dependent in own warehouse (OW) and Weibull distribution deterioration in rented warehouse (RW). Holding cost in RW is greater than in OW. We developed a fuzzy model with fuzzifying all the costs of the model as triangular fuzzy numbers. The present model is developed in both crisp and fuzzy senses. Finally, numerical example is shown, and sensitivity is also illustrated.
Solution Structures of PPARγ2/RXRαComplexes
Authors: Osz Judit , Pethoukhov Maxim V. , Sirigu Serena , Svergun Dmitri I. , Moras Dino , Rochel Natacha
Published: December 2012

PPARγis a key regulator of glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitization. PPARγmust heterodimerize with its dimeric partner, the retinoid X receptor (RXR), to bind DNA and associated coactivators such as p160 family members or PGC-1αto regulate gene networks. To understand how coactivators are recognized by the functional heterodimer PPARγ/RXRαand to determine the topological organization of the complexes, we performed a structural study using small angle X-ray scattering of PPARγ/RXRαin complex with DNA from regulated gene and the TIF2 receptor interacting domain (RID). The solution structures reveal an asymmetry of the overall structure due to the crucial role of the DNA in positioning the heterodimer and indicate asymmetrical binding of TIF2 to the heterodimer.
Genitourinary Tuberculosis: An Atypical Clinical Presentation
Authors: Lim Pei Shan , Atan Ixora Kamisan , Naidu Aruku
Published: December 2012

Genitourinary tuberculosis is one of the common forms of extrapulmonary tuberculosis. We report a case of atypical genitourinary tuberculosis: massive uterovaginal prolapse with cervical lesion mimicking cervical carcinoma. This particular case highlights the problem of healthcare in most of the developing countries. Lack of patient education, awareness, and access to a healthcare system resulted in a complicated situation. In an endemic area or in an immunocompromised individual, a higher index of suspicion would allow early recognition and treatment institution to minimise its late consequences as well as spreading of the disease. Though anti-TB is the mainstay of treatment, surgical intervention might be needed in selected cases.
Design of a Computationally Efficient Dynamic System‐Level Simulator for Enterprise LTE Femtocell Scenarios
Authors: Ruiz-Avilés J. M. , Luna-Ramírez S. , Toril M. , Ruiz F. , de la Bandera I. , Muñoz P. , Barco R. , Lázaro P. , Buenestado V.
Published: December 2012

In the context of Long‐Term Evolution (LTE), the next generation mobile telecommunication network, femtocells are low‐power base stations that efficiently provide coverage and capacity indoors. This paper presents a computationally efficient dynamic system‐level LTE simulator for enterprise femtocell scenarios. The simulator includes specific mobility and traffic and propagation models for indoor environments. A physical layer abstraction is performed to predict link‐layer performance with low computational cost. At link layer, two important functions are included to increase network capacity: Link Adaptation and Dynamic Scheduling. At network layer, other Radio Resource Management functionalities, such as Admission Control and Mobility Management, are also included. The resulting tool can be used to test and validate optimization algorithms in the context of Self‐Organizing Networks (SON).
Papillary Renal Carcinoma Arising in an Ectopic Native Kidney and Status after Renal Transplant: A Report of a Unique Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Xu Xiangdong , Weidner Noel
Published: December 2012

Renal ectopia is an uncommon developmental defect of upper urinary tract. Except for hydronephrosis and urinary calculus formation, it is believed that ectopic kidneys are not more susceptible to diseases compared to the normally positioned kidneys. Primary renal carcinoma in ectopic kidneys is rarely observed. Our literature review identified eight cases in nontransplanted patients; seven were clear-cell carcinoma and one was papillary renal carcinoma. On the other hand, native kidneys of renal transplant patients are fifteen times more likely to develop renal carcinoma than those of nontransplanted patients. Renal malignancy has never been reported in native ectopic kidneys of transplant recipients. We report the first case of a papillary renal carcinoma in a native ectopic kidney of a 30 year-old female, six-year status after renal transplantation.
Study of High Quality Indium Nitride Films Grown on Si(100) Substrate by RF‐MOMBE with GZO and AlN Buffer Layers
Authors: Chen Wei-Chun , Kuo Shou-Yi
Published: December 2012

Wurtzite structure InN films were prepared on Si(100) substrates using radio‐frequency metal‐organic molecular beam epitaxy (RF‐MOMBE) system. Ga‐doped ZnO (GZO) and Amorphous AlN (a‐AlN) film were used as buffer layers for InN films growth. Structural, surface morphology and optical properties of InN films were investigated by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and photoluminescence (PL). XRD results indicated that all InN films exhibited preferred growth orientation along the c‐axis with different intermediate buffers. TEM images exhibit the InN/GZO growth by two‐dimensional mode and thickness about 900 nm. Also, the InN films can be obtained by growth rate about ~1.8 μm/h. Optical properties indicated that the band gap of InN/GZO is about 0.79 eV. These results indicate that the control of buffer layer is essential for engineering the growth of InN on silicon wafer.
Child Labor and Environmental Health: Government Obligations and Human Rights
Authors: Amon Joseph J. , Buchanan Jane , Cohen Jane , Kippenberg Juliane
Published: December 2012

The Convention concerning the Prohibition and Immediate Action for the Elimination of the Worst Forms of Child Labour was adopted by the International Labour Organization in 1999. 174 countries around the world have signed or ratified the convention, which requires countries to adopt laws and implement programs to prohibit and eliminate child labor that poses harms to health or safety. Nonetheless, child labor continues to be common in the agriculture and mining sectors, where safety and environmental hazards pose significant risks. Drawing upon recent human rights investigations of child labor in tobacco farming in Kazakhstan and gold mining in Mali, the role of international human rights mechanisms, advocacy with government and private sector officials, and media attention in reducing harmful environmental exposures of child workers is discussed. Human rights-based advocacy in both cases was important to raise attention and help ensure that children are protected from harm.
Theoretical Study and Optimization of the Biochemical Reaction Process by Means of Feedback Control Strategy
Authors: Sun Kaibiao , Kasperski Andrzej , Tian Yuan
Published: December 2012

The aim of this work is to present a theoretical analysis and optimization of a biochemical reaction process by means of feedback control strategy. To begin with, a mathematical model of the biochemical reaction process with feedback control is formulated. Then, based on the formulated model, the analysis of system′s dynamics is presented. The optimization of the bioprocess is carried out, in order to achieve maximal biomass productivity. It is shown that during the optimization, the bioprocess with impulse effects loses the possibility of synchronization and strives for a simple continuous bioprocess.
The analytical results presented in the work are validated by numerical simulations for the Tessier kinetics model.
Human and Bovine Dentin Composition and Its Hybridization Mechanism Assessed by FT-Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Soares L. E. S. , Campos A. D. F. , Martin A. A.
Published: December 2012

FT-Raman spectroscopy was used to study the human and bovine dentin and their interactions with adhesive systems. Ten human (H) molars and ten bovine (B) teeth were prepared exposing the dentin and then each specimen was divided into two parts. The resulted forty dentin segments were treated either with the total-etch one bottle adhesive (Prime & Bond 2.1, PB) or with the single-step self-etching adhesive (Xeno III, X) and divided into four groups: HPB (control), HX, BPB, and BX. Each group was analyzed by FT-Raman spectroscopy before and after the adhesive treatment. Six regions of the Raman spectrum were analyzed and the integrated areas of organic and inorganic peaks were calculated. Bovine untreated specimens showed higher peak area ofPO4 3−ν2  content than in human specimens. Human untreated specimens had higher peak areas ofPO4 3−ν4andCO3 2−ν1  contents than in bovine specimens. The peak areas of amide III,CH2, and amide I contents were higher in human than in bovine specimens (before treatments). Treated dentin showed no significant statistical differences between the adhesives for both inorganic and organic contents considering the same substrate. However, the differences found between human and bovine specimens after adhesives application show a reduced accuracy of these substrates as a substitute to the human specimens.
Synthesis, Antibacterial, and Antifungal Activities of Novel Pyridazino Carbazoles
Authors: Yaqub Ghazala , Hannan Abdul , Akbar Erum , Usman Muhammad , Hamid Almas , Sadiq Zubi , Iqbal Mehwish
Published: December 2012

Strategy to synthesize novel carbazole, that is, 2,3‐dihydro‐2‐phenyl‐6H‐pyridazino[4, 5‐b]carbazole‐1,4‐dione (2), is developed as key reaction. This novel compound showed ideal reactivity toward different functional groups like methyl, carboxylic, nitro, piperazine, and amine; thus series of its derivatives are synthesized sequentially with the aim to fuel up the carbazole compounds with new versatile derivatives. All compounds were investigated for their activity against bacteria (MRSA and S. typhi) and fungi (Candida albicans). Among tested compounds 3, 6, and 8 exhibited pronounced antibacterial activities while 2, 5, and 9 also showed moderate activities. 2, 3, 5, 7, and 9 showed stronger antifungal activity against Candida albicans comparable to positive control.
Dietary Resveratrol Prevents Development of High-Grade Prostatic Intraepithelial Neoplastic Lesions: Involvement of SIRT1/S6K Axis
Authors: Li Guiming , Rivas Paul , Bedolla Roble , Thapa Dinesh , Reddick Robert L. , Ghosh Rita , Kumar Addanki P.
Published: December 2012

SIRT1 (mammalian ortholog of the yeast silent information regulator 2) is a NAD-dependent histone deacetylase belonging to the multigene family of sirtuins. Anecdotal and epidemiologic observations provide evidence for beneficial effects of the calorie restriction mimetic resveratrol (RES), a SIRT1 activator in preventing cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Although SIRT1 possesses both tumorigenic and antitumorigenic potential, the molecular mechanisms underlying SIRT1-mediated tumor progression or inhibition are poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the role of SIRT1 in multiple human prostate cancer cell lines and prostate-specific PTEN knockout mouse model using resveratrol. Androgen-independent prostate cancer cell lines (C42B, PC3, and DU145) express higher levels of SIRT1 than androgen-responsive (LNCaP) and nontumorigenic prostate cells (RWPE-1). Resveratrol enhanced this expression without any significant effect on SIRT1 enzymatic activity. Inhibition of SIRT1 expression using shRNA enhanced cell proliferation and inhibited autophagy by repressing phosphorylation of S6K and 4E-BP1. These biologic correlates were reversed in the presence of resveratrol. Analysis of prostates from dietary intervention with resveratrol showed a significant reduction in prostate weight and reduction in the incidence of high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplastic (HGPIN) lesions by approximately 54% with no significant change in body weight. Consistent with the in vitro findings, resveratrol intervention in the PTEN knockout mouse model was associated with reduction in the prostatic levels of mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) activity and increased expression of SIRT1. These data suggest that SIRT1/S6K-mediated inhibition of autophagy drives prostate tumorigenesis. Therefore, modulation of SIRT1/S6K signaling represents an effective strategy for prostate cancer prevention. Cancer Prev Res; 6(1); 27–39. ©2012 AACR.
Clear Lens Phacoemulsification Combined with Vitrectomy to Correct High Myopia: Four Years of Follow-Up
Authors: Zheng Qinxiang , Wu Ronghan , Yang Shelley , Zhang Yuanping , Li Wensheng
Published: December 2012

Purpose: To evaluate the outcome, intraoperative and postoperative complications of refractive lens exchange (RLE) by phacoemulsification with posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL) implantation combined with simultaneous pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) in the management of high myopia. Methods: This prospective study consisted of 45 eyes of 26 patients with preoperative myopia greater than –12.5 dpt. Clear lens phacoemulsification with IOL implantation surgery was combined with PPV. Main outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), stability of the spherical equivalent (SE) and complications at follow-up. Results: The combined procedure of clear lens phacoemulsification combined with PPV has a favorable outcome with acceptable SE predictability and improvement in BCVA. The postoperative BCVA was 0.67 ± 0.21 compared to 0.15 ± 0.10 preoperatively (p < 0.001). The mean postoperative SE was –1.6 ± 0.9 dpt, showing a significant difference when compared with a mean value of –20.0 ± 5.2 dpt before the operation (p < 0.001). During the follow-up, all IOLs were placed stably in the bag with no capsular tear occurring and only 1 case (2.2%) developed retinal detachment. Conclusion: RLE and implantation of an IOL combined with simultaneous PPV is a reasonable refractive surgery option for middle-aged patients with high myopia.
Usability of Tablet Computers by People with Early-Stage Dementia
Authors: Lim Fabian S. , Wallace Tim , Luszcz Mary A. , Reynolds Karen J.
Published: December 2012

Background: Tablet computers are generally associated with an intuitive interface. The adoption and use of tablet computers within the early-stage dementia context could potentially assist in daily living and provide users with a source for leisure activities and social networking. As dementia mainly affects the older adult population, it is expected that many people with dementia and even their carers do not use tablet computers as part of their everyday living. Objective: This paper explores the usability of tablet computers within the early-stage dementia context as a source of leisure for people with dementia. The main advantage of the use of tablet computers in this manner is to provide carers some reprieve from the constant care and attention often required in caring for people with dementia. Methods: Seven-day in-home trials were conducted to determine whether people with early-stage dementia were -capable of using a tablet computer independently. Twenty-one people with early-stage dementia and carer dyads participated in the trial. Feedback was gathered through questionnaires from both the person with dementia and their carer regarding the use of a tablet computer as part of their everyday living. Results: Approximately half the participants with dementia were able to engage with and use the tablet computer independently, which proved to be helpful to their carers. No significant traits were observed to help identify those who were less likely to use a tablet computer. Carer relief was quantified by the amount of time participants with dementia spent using the device without supervision. Conclusions: The results and feedback from the trial provide significant insights to introducing new technology within the early-stage dementia context. Users' needs must be considered on a case-by-case basis to successfully facilitate the uptake of tablet computers in the dementia context. The trial has provided sufficient justification to further explore more uses of tablet computers in the dementia context, and not just for early-stage dementia.
Mortality of Older Adults in the Context of Socioeconomic Transition and Health Reform in Lithuania
Authors: Kalediene Ramune , Macijauskiene Jurate
Published: December 2012

Background: Rapid political and economic changes have exerted a great influence on the health of the Lithuanian population, particularly on the most vulnerable layers such as older adults. The aim of this study was to assess mortality from major causes of death of older adults in the context of the socioeconomic transition and health reform in Lithuania. Methods: Information was gathered on deaths of older adults (aged 65 years and older) from 1991 to 2010 by examining death certificates held by the Lithuanian Department of Statistics. Overall mortality and mortality from cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and cancer were analyzed. Joinpoint analysis was used to identify the best-fitting points wherever a statistically significant change in mortality occurred. Results: Because of considerable variations in overall mortality throughout the two decades, average annual changes were not statistically significant for males; however, a decline of 0.81% was observed for females (p < 0.05). Mortality from CVD decreased and cancer mortality increased statistically significantly both for males and females. The most critical points for overall mortality occurred in 1993, when an increasing trend reversed to a decreasing one. The major decline was observed in mortality from CVD in males and females. After the period of growing mortality (2000-2007 for males and 2003-2006 for females), the trend reversed to the declining one, which was mainly determined by the positive changes in CVD and cancer mortality, particularly among females. Conclusion: A shift from a health care system based on inpatient services towards a system including preventive strategies and being opened to the modern medical achievements seems to have played an important role in the health improvement of the older adults. However, organization of geriatric care and development of the social system for active ageing is still challenging. A major priority is to persuade all of the different sectors to commit to the establishment and implementation of the national policy for health and social care among the older population.
Typical Features of Amelogenesis Imperfecta in Two Patients with Bartter’s Syndrome
Authors: Martelli-Júnior Hercílio , Ferreira Shirlene Pimentel , Pereira Paula Cristina B. , Coletta Ricardo D. , de Aquino Sibele Nascimento , Miranda Débora Marques , Simões e Silva Ana Cristina
Published: December 2012

Background/Aims: Amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) is due to many inherited defects of enamel formation that affect the quantity and quality of enamel, leading to delay in tooth eruption and cosmetic consequences. AI has been described in association with nephrocalcinosis, which is called the enamel-renal syndrome. The aim of this case report is to describe typical features of AI in 2 patients with Bartter’s syndrome (BS) for the first time. Methods: -Eight patients with confirmed BS were systematically screened for dental abnormalities as part of protocol. Those with suggestive clinical features of AI were submitted to panoramic X-ray and decayed teeth were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. Results: Typical features of AI were detected in 2 girls with BS. These 2 patients showed nephrocalcinosis, and diagnosis and adequate clinical control were delayed. Genetic analysis detected the mutation responsible for BS in 1 of these patients. In this case, BS was due to a homozygous mutation of exon 5 of the KCNJ1 gene resulting in a substitution of valine for alanine at the codon 214 (A214V). Conclusions: The finding of typical features of AI in BS might constitute preliminary evidence that abnormalities of the biomineralization process found in patients with renal tubular disorders might also affect calcium deposition in dental tissues.
Genome-Wide Association Study Pinpoints a New Functional Apolipoprotein B Variant Influencing Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein Levels But Not Cardiovascular Events
Authors: Mäkelä Kari-Matti , Seppälä Ilkka , Hernesniemi Jussi A. , Lyytikäinen Leo-Pekka , Oksala Niku , Kleber Marcus E. , Scharnagl Hubert , Grammer Tanja B. , Baumert Jens , Thorand Barbara , Jula Antti , Hutri-Kähönen Nina , Juonala Markus , Laitinen Tomi , Laaksonen Reijo , Karhunen Pekka J. , Nikus Kjell C. , Nieminen Tuomo , Laurikka Jari , Kuukasjärvi Pekka , Tarkka Matti , Viik Jari , Klopp Norman , Illig Thomas , Kettunen Johannes , Ahotupa Markku , Viikari Jorma S.A. , Kähönen Mika , Raitakari Olli T. , Karakas Mahir , Koenig Wolfgang , Boehm Bernhard O. , Winkelmann Bernhard R. , März Winfried , Lehtimäki Terho
Published: December 2012

Background—

Oxidized low-density lipoprotein may be a key factor in the development of atherosclerosis. We performed a genome-wide association study on oxidized low-density lipoprotein and tested the impact of associated single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on the risk factors of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events.

Methods and Results—

A discovery genome-wide association study was performed on a population of young healthy white individuals (N=2080), and the SNPs associated with a
P
<5×10
–8
were replicated in 2 independent samples (A: N=2912; B: N=1326). Associations with cardiovascular endpoints were also assessed with 2 additional clinical cohorts (C: N=1118; and D: N=808). We found 328 SNPs associated with oxidized low-density lipoprotein. The genetic variant rs676210 (Pro2739Leu) in apolipoprotein B was the proxy SNP behind all associations (
P
=4.3×10
–136
, effect size=13.2 U/L per allele). This association was replicated in the 2 independent samples (A and B,
P
=2.5×10
–47
and 1.1×10
–11
, effect sizes=10.3 U/L and 7.8 U/L, respectively). In the meta-analyses of cohorts A, C, and D (excluding cohort B without angiographic data), the top SNP did not associate significantly with the age of onset of angiographically verified coronary artery disease (hazard ratio=1.00 [0.94–1.06] per allele), 3-vessel coronary artery disease (hazard ratio=1.03 [0.94–1.13]), or myocardial infarction (hazard ratio=1.04 [0.96–1.12]).

Conclusions—

This novel genetic marker is an important factor regulating oxidized low-density lipoprotein levels but not a major genetic factor for the studied cardiovascular endpoints.
Adolescent Obesity, Change in Weight Status, and Hypertension
Authors: Suglia Shakira F. , Clark Cari J. , Gary-Webb Tiffany L.
Published: December 2012

We sought to determine whether change in weight status between adolescence and young adulthood was associated with the risk of developing hypertension among adolescents and whether sex and racial/ethnic group differences existed in the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health. The sample was restricted to participants who self-identified as black, Hispanic, or white non-Hispanic (n=8543). Height and weight were measured in adolescence (mean 16 years) and again in adulthood (mean 29 years). We categorized the weight of participants into 4 groups: stayed normal weight; gained weight (normal weight in adolescence and obese in adulthood); lost weight (overweight/obese in adolescence nonobese in adulthood); and chronically overweight/obese. Hypertension was defined as measured systolic blood pressure of at least 140 mm Hg or diastolic blood pressure of at least 90 mm Hg measured in adulthood or use of antihypertensive medications. A higher risk of hypertension was noted for all sex and racial/ethnic groups who became obese in adulthood. Furthermore, those who were chronically overweight/obese were at higher risk of hypertension for all groups, with odds ratios ranging from 2.7 in Hispanic men to 6.5 in Hispanic women. Except for black men, those who lost weight during follow-up had no significant increased risk compared with those who maintained normal weight. Overall, there was an increased risk of hypertension for those who gained weight in adulthood and among those who remained obese from adolescence to young adulthood. These data give further evidence for prevention strategies that begin earlier in life to reduce or delay the onset of chronic disease in young adults.
Loss of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells and Cardiomyocytes Causes Arterial Hypotension and Cardiac Hypertrophy
Authors: Schreier Barbara , Rabe Sindy , Schneider Bettina , Bretschneider Maria , Rupp Sebastian , Ruhs Stefanie , Neumann Joachim , Rueckschloss Uwe , Sibilia Maria , Gotthardt Michael , Grossmann Claudia , Gekle Michael
Published: December 2012

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), a receptor tyrosine kinase, contributes to parainflammatory dysregulation, possibly causing cardiovascular dysfunction and remodeling. The physiological role of cardiovascular EGFR is not completely understood. To investigate the physiological importance of EGFR in vascular smooth muscle cells and cardiomyocytes, we generated a mouse model with targeted deletion of the EGFR using the SM22 (smooth muscle-specific protein 22) promoter. While the reproduction of knockout animals was not impaired, life span was significantly reduced. Systolic blood pressure was not different between the 2 genotypes—neither in tail cuff nor in intravascular measurements—whereas total peripheral vascular resistance, diastolic blood pressure, and mean blood pressure were reduced. Loss of vascular smooth muscle cell-EGFR results in a dilated vascular phenotype with minor signs of fibrosis and inflammation. Echocardiography, necropsy, and histology revealed a dramatic eccentric cardiac hypertrophy in knockout mice (2.5-fold increase in heart weight), with increased stroke volume and cardiac output as well as left ventricular wall thickness and lumen. Cardiac hypertrophy is accompanied by an increase in cardiomyocyte volume, a strong tendency to cardiac fibrosis and inflammation, as well as enhanced NADPH-oxidase 4 and hypertrophy marker expression. Thus, in cardiomyocytes, EGFR prevents excessive hypertrophic growth through its impact on reactive oxygen species balance, whereas in vascular smooth muscle cells EGFR contributes to the appropriate vascular wall architecture and vessel reactivity, thereby supporting a physiological vascular tone.
Elevation of Angiotensin-II Type-1-Receptor Autoantibodies Titer in Primary Aldosteronism as a Result of Aldosterone-Producing Adenoma
Authors: Rossitto Giacomo , Regolisti Giuseppe , Rossi Ermanno , Negro Aurelio , Nicoli Davide , Casali Bruno , Toniato Antonio , Caroccia Brasilina , Seccia Teresa Maria , Walther Thomas , Rossi Gian Paolo
Published: December 2012

The mechanisms of excess aldosterone secretion in primary aldosteronism (PA) remain poorly understood, although a role for circulating factors has been hypothesized for decades. Agonistic autoantibodies against type-1 angiotensin-II receptor (AT1AA) are detectable in malignant hypertension and preeclampsia and might play a role in PA. Moreover, if they were elevated in aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA) and not in idiopathic hyperaldosteronism (IHA), they might be useful for discriminating between these conditions. To test these hypotheses, we measured the titer of AT1AA in serum of 46 patients with PA (26 with APA, 20 with IHA), 62 with primary hypertension (PH), 13 preeclamptic women, and 45 healthy normotensive blood donors.We found that the AT1AA titer was higher (
P
<0.05) in both PA and PH patients (2.65±1.55 and 1.86±0.63, respectively) than in normotensive subjects (1.00±0.20). In APA, it was 2-fold higher than in IHA patients (3.43±1.20 versus 1.64±1.39, respectively,
P
<0.001), despite similar blood pressure values. Of note, it allowed effective discrimination of APA from either PH or IHA, as shown by Receiver Operator Characteristics curve analysis. Moreover, after captopril challenge, plasma aldosterone concentration fell more in AT1AA-positive than in AT1AA-negative PA patients (–32.4% [21.1–42.9] versus 0.0% [0.0–22.6],
P
=0.015), suggesting an agonistic role for these autoantibodies. Thus, a higher serum AT1AA titer in patients with APA than in IHA and PH patients can be useful in differentiating APA patients from either PH or IHA, and thus in selecting PA patients to be submitted to adrenal vein sampling.
Forum: Principled Strategy: The Role of Equity Norms in China's Climate Change Diplomacy
Authors: Stalley Phillip
Published: December 2012

Through more than two decades of multilateral climate change negotiations, China has steadfastly opposed emission limits for developing countries. Scholars have traditionally explained the rigidity of Chinese diplomacy with reference to economic interests and power, and in the process understated the importance of equity norms. In international negotiations, China has served as one of the key architects and promoters of the common but differentiated responsibility principle, which holds that global environmental justice requires that developed countries bear the primary obligation for combating climate change. China has used this principle strategically in order to legitimize its opposition to emission limits. However, China's negotiating stance cannot be defined simply as the instrumental use of norms, as Beijing is genuinely sensitive to issues of equity. These equity concerns have occasionally led China to act in a manner that, from a strict cost-benefit analysis, runs counter to its own economic interests. In sum, notions of environmental justice are simultaneously a tool China uses to pursue its interests and a force that structures China's interest.
Norm Conflict in Climate Governance: Greenhouse Gas Accounting and the Problem of Consumption
Authors: Harris Paul G. , Symons Jonathan
Published: December 2012

Accounting rules used for compiling national greenhouse gas inventories play a significant role in constituting the global climate change regime's character. These rules have major political and policy implications. Production-based accounting and national production-based emissions targets contribute to the deadlock in climate negotiations by deflecting attention away from consumption patterns and by accentuating tensions among the climate regime's underlying norms. These dynamics contribute to inefficient domestic mitigation policies, conflict over the norm of “common but differentiated responsibility,” weak international agreements, and continued political neglect of consumption as a driver of emissions. In contrast, consumption-based emissions accounting would shift attention from production to consumption. Consumption-based targets could potentially provide an alternative path by which differentiated responsibility could be implemented. Adoption of consumption-based inventories might also prompt reappraisal of underlying norms and opposing conceptions of justice among states.
The Politics of International Climate Adaptation Funding: Justice and Divisions in the Greenhouse
Authors: Ciplet David , Roberts J. Timmons , Khan Mizan
Published: December 2012

Finance for developing countries to adapt to the adverse impacts of climate change now tops the international climate negotiation agenda. In this article, we first assess how adaptation finance came to the top of the agenda. Second, drawing upon Amartya Sen's (2010) “realization-focused comparison” theory of justice, we develop a definition of adaptation finance justice based upon the texts of the 1992 UNFCCC and its subsidiary bodies. From this perspective, we assess three main points of contention between countries on both sides of the North-South divide: The Gap in raising the funds, The Wedge in their distribution, and The Dodge in how they are governed. Overall, we argue that while some ambiguity exists, the decisions of the UNFCCC provide a strong basis for a justice-oriented approach to adaptation finance. However, in practice, adaptation finance has reflected developed country interests far more than the principles of justice adopted by Parties.
Muscle and Timing-specific Functional Connectivity between the Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex and the Primary Motor Cortex
Authors: Hasan Alkomiet , Galea Joseph M. , Casula Elias P. , Falkai Peter , Bestmann Sven , Rothwell John C.
Published: December 2012

The pFC has a crucial role in cognitive control, executive function, and sensory processing. Functional imaging, neurophysiological, and animal studies provide evidence for a functional connectivity between the dorsolateral pFC (DLPFC) and the primary motor cortex (M1) during free choice but not instructed choice selection tasks. In this study, twin coil, neuronavigated TMS was used to examine the precise timing of the functional interaction between human left DLPFC and ipsilateral M1 during the execution of a free/specified choice selection task involving the digits of the right hand. In a thumb muscle that was not involved in the task, a conditioning pulse to the left DLPFC enhanced the excitability of the ipsilateral M1 during free selection more than specified selection 100 msec after presentation of the cue; the opposite effect was seen at 75 msec. However, the difference between free and externally specified conditions disappeared when a task-specific muscle was investigated. In this case, the influence from DLPFC was dominated by task involvement rather than mode of selection, suggesting that other processes related to movement execution were also operating. Finally, we show that the effects were spatially specific because they were absent when an adjacent area of DLPFC was stimulated. These results reveal temporally and spatially selective interactions between BA 46 and M1 that are both task and muscle specific.
The Biology of Linguistic Expression Impacts Neural Correlates for Spatial Language
Authors: Emmorey Karen , McCullough Stephen , Mehta Sonya , Ponto Laura L. B. , Grabowski Thomas J.
Published: December 2012

Biological differences between signed and spoken languages may be most evident in the expression of spatial information. PET was used to investigate the neural substrates supporting the production of spatial language in American Sign Language as expressed by classifier constructions, in which handshape indicates object type and the location/motion of the hand iconically depicts the location/motion of a referent object. Deaf native signers performed a picture description task in which they overtly named objects or produced classifier constructions that varied in location, motion, or object type. In contrast to the expression of location and motion, the production of both lexical signs and object type classifier morphemes engaged left inferior frontal cortex and left inferior temporal cortex, supporting the hypothesis that unlike the location and motion components of a classifier construction, classifier handshapes are categorical morphemes that are retrieved via left hemisphere language regions. In addition, lexical signs engaged the anterior temporal lobes to a greater extent than classifier constructions, which we suggest reflects increased semantic processing required to name individual objects compared with simply indicating the type of object. Both location and motion classifier constructions engaged bilateral superior parietal cortex, with some evidence that the expression of static locations differentially engaged the left intraparietal sulcus. We argue that bilateral parietal activation reflects the biological underpinnings of sign language. To express spatial information, signers must transform visual–spatial representations into a body-centered reference frame and reach toward target locations within signing space.
Frontoparietal Traffic Signals: A Fast Optical Imaging Study of Preparatory Dynamics in Response Mode Switching
Authors: Baniqued Pauline L. , Low Kathy A. , Fabiani Monica , Gratton Gabriele
Published: December 2012

Coordination between networks of brain regions is important for optimal cognitive performance, especially in attention demanding tasks. With the event-related optical signal (a measure of changes in optical scattering because of neuronal activity) we can characterize rapidly evolving network processes by examining the millisecond-scale temporal correlation of activity in distinct regions during the preparatory period of a response mode switching task. Participants received a precue indicating whether to respond vocally or manually. They then saw or heard the letter “L” or “R,” indicating a “left” or “right” response to be implemented with the appropriate response modality. We employed lagged cross-correlations to characterize the dynamic connectivity of preparatory processes. Our results confirmed coupling of frontal and parietal cortices and the trial-dependent relationship of the right frontal cortex with response preparation areas. The frontal-to-modality-specific cortex cross-correlations revealed a pattern in which first irrelevant regions were deactivated, and then relevant regions were activated. These results provide a window into the subsecond scale network interactions that flexibly tune to task demands.
Seeing It My Way or Your Way: Frontoparietal Brain Areas Sustain Viewpoint-independent Perspective Selection Processes
Authors: Ramsey Richard , Hansen Peter , Apperly Ian , Samson Dana
Published: December 2012

A hallmark of human social interaction is the ability to consider other people's mental states, such as what they see, believe, or desire. Prior neuroimaging research has predominantly investigated the neural mechanisms involved in computing one's own or another person's perspective and largely ignored the question of perspective selection. That is, which brain regions are engaged in the process of selecting between self and other perspectives? To address this question, the current fMRI study used a behavioral paradigm that required participants to select between competing visual perspectives. We provide two main extensions to current knowledge. First, we demonstrate that brain regions within dorsolateral prefrontal and parietal cortices respond in a viewpoint-independent manner during the selection of task-relevant over task-irrelevant perspectives. More specifically, following the computation of two competing visual perspectives, common regions of frontoparietal cortex are engaged to select one's own viewpoint over another's as well as select another's viewpoint over one's own. Second, in the absence of conflict between the content of competing perspectives, we showed a reduced engagement of frontoparietal cortex when judging another's visual perspective relative to one's own. This latter finding provides the first brain-based evidence for the hypothesis that, in some situations, another person's perspective is automatically and effortlessly computed, and thus, less cognitive control is required to select it over one's own perspective. In doing so, we provide stronger evidence for the claim that we not only automatically compute what other people see but also, in some cases, we compute this even before we are explicitly aware of our own perspective.
Neuromodulation of Early Multisensory Interactions in the Visual Cortex
Authors: Convento Silvia , Vallar Giuseppe , Galantini Chiara , Bolognini Nadia
Published: December 2012

Merging information derived from different sensory channels allows the brain to amplify minimal signals to reduce their ambiguity, thereby improving the ability of orienting to, detecting, and identifying environmental events. Although multisensory interactions have been mostly ascribed to the activity of higher-order heteromodal areas, multisensory convergence may arise even in primary sensory-specific areas located very early along the cortical processing stream. In three experiments, we investigated early multisensory interactions in lower-level visual areas, by using a novel approach, based on the coupling of behavioral stimulation with two noninvasive brain stimulation techniques, namely, TMS and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). First, we showed that redundant multisensory stimuli can increase visual cortical excitability, as measured by means of phosphene induction by occipital TMS; such physiological enhancement is followed by a behavioral facilitation through the amplification of signal intensity in sensory-specific visual areas. The more sensory inputs are combined (i.e., trimodal vs. bimodal stimuli), the greater are the benefits on phosphene perception. Second, neuroelectrical activity changes induced by tDCS in the temporal and in the parietal cortices, but not in the occipital cortex, can further boost the multisensory enhancement of visual cortical excitability, by increasing the auditory and tactile inputs from temporal and parietal regions, respectively, to lower-level visual areas.
Building Blocks of Visual Working Memory: Objects or Boolean Maps?
Authors: Shen Mowei , Yu Wenjun , Xu Xiaotian , Gao Zaifeng
Published: December 2012

The nature of the building blocks of information in visual working memory (VWM) is a fundamental issue that has not been well resolved. Most researchers take objects as the building blocks, although this perspective has received criticism. The objects could be physically separated ones (strict object hypothesis) or hierarchical objects created from separated individuals (broad object hypothesis). Meanwhile, a newly proposed Boolean map theory for visual attention suggests that Boolean maps may be the building blocks of VWM (Boolean map hypothesis); this perspective could explain many critical findings of VWM. However, no previous study has examined these hypotheses. We explored this issue by focusing on a critical point on which they make distinct predictions. We asked participants to remember two distinct objects (2-object), three distinct objects (3-object), or three objects with repeated information (mixed-3-object, e.g., one red bar and two green bars, green bars could be represented as one hierarchical object) and adopted contralateral delay activity (CDA) to tap into the maintenance phase of VWM. The mixed-3-object condition could generate two Boolean maps, three objects, or three objects most of the time (hierarchical objects are created in certain trials, retaining two objects). Simple orientations (Experiment 1) and colors (Experiments 2 and 3) were used as stimuli. Although the CDA of the mixed-3-object condition was slightly lower than that of the 3-object condition, no significant difference was revealed between them. Both conditions displayed significantly higher CDAs than the 2-object condition. These findings support the broad object hypothesis. We further suggest that Boolean maps might be the unit for retrieval/comparison in VWM.