bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of the antigenic determinants of human renin.
Authors: Evin G , Carlson W D , Handschumacher M , Novotný J , Matsueda G R , Haber E , Bouhnik J , Galen F X , Ménard J , Corvol P
Published: September 2013

The primary structure of human renin, recently established from the complementary DNA sequence of its messenger RNA, shows a strong homology to other aspartyl proteases. This homology has permitted the construction of a model of the three-dimensional structure of renin based on the crystallographically determined structures of three aspartyl proteases: penicillopepsin, endothiapepsin, and rhizopuspepsin. Using an algorithm in which a spherical probe approximating the size of the antibody-binding domain (1-nm radius) was allowed to contact the surface of the renin model, we predicted 12 to 15 peptides to be immunogenic epitopes. We synthesized peptides corresponding to three different regions of the model: Cys-Gly-Ser-Asp-Pro-Gln-His-Tyr-Glu-Gly-amide (C-180-188), Tyr-Leu-Leu-Cys-Glu-Asp-Gly-Cys-Leu-Ala-Leu-amide (Y-215-224; disulfide bond between cysteines) and Tyr-Gly-Ser-Ser-Thr-Leu-Leu-Cys-Glu-Asp-Gly-Cys-Leu-Ala-Leu-amide (Y-211-224; disulfide bond between cysteines), and Cys-Tyr-Ser-Ser-Lys-Lys-Leu-Cys-Gly (C-290-296-G; disulfide bond between cysteines). All four peptides were tested for their binding to 11 polyclonal and 7 monoclonal antibodies raised against pure human renin, in both a solution assay and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Peptides Y-215-224 and Y-211-224 bound to all 11 polyclonal antibodies in the solution assay, and peptide Y211-224 bound to eight of them in the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Therefore, region 211-224 can be identified as a major epitope of the human renin molecule.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Calcium activation of vascular smooth muscle. State of the art lecture.
Authors: van Breemen C , Leijten P , Yamamoto H , Aaronson P , Cauvin C
Published: September 2013

Tension development in arterial smooth muscle is regulated by variations of calcium concentration in the submicromolar range. The receptor for Ca2+ is calmodulin, which through stimulation of myosin light chain kinase can activate sequentially two apparently different contractile states. A third possible contractile state may be related to C-kinase activation. These contractile states are thought to have different Ca2+ sensitivities. Ca2+ is supplied from two major sources: the sarcoplasmic reticulum and the extracellular space. The release of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ is mediated by the intracellular messenger inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) and perhaps by Ca2+ itself. These two messengers have the potential for amplification; for example, IP3 may release some Ca2+ that may subsequently cause Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release. The entry of Ca2+ from the extracellular space into the cytoplasm is mediated by a Ca2+ leak and by excitable Ca2+ channels and is modulated by a Ca2+ buffer barrier consisting of the superficial sarcoplasmic reticulum. Two types of adenosine 5'-triphosphate-driven Ca2+ pumps in the sarcoplasmic reticulum and plasmalemma are responsible for returning the cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration to resting level after contraction and for maintaining Ca2+ homeostasis during the life of the cells.
Considerations in the standardization of measurement of left ventricular myocardial mass by two-dimensional echocardiography.
Authors: Schiller N B
Published: September 2013

Optimization of two-dimensional determination of left ventricular mass requires minimizing sources of variability. To accomplish this goal, attention must be directed to the technical aspects of image acquisition, selection of a geometric model, and calibration of imaging and quantitation instrumentation. This paper considers the role of each of these factors in developing a strategy for measuring left ventricular mass with a degree of accuracy suitable for both clinical and investigative applications.
Effect of age, sex, and body surface area on echocardiographic left ventricular wall mass in normal subjects.
Authors: Gardin J M , Savage D D , Ware J H , Henry W L
Published: September 2013

M-mode echocardiography was used to estimate left ventricular wall mass in 136 older normal subjects (Group I: 78 men and 58 women, ages 20 to 97 years) and 105 younger normal subjects (Group II: 52 male and 53 female subjects, ages 1 day to 23 years). Echocardiographic left ventricular mass (in grams) was estimated from the following formula: left ventricular mass = 1.05 ([ left ventricular internal diastolic dimension + ventricular septal thickness (diastole) + posterior wall thickness (diastole)] - [left ventricular internal diastolic dimension]). In both groups, female subjects had a slightly smaller left ventricular mass than male subjects (mean difference 7.2% in Group I, p less than 0.05, and 3.6% in Group II, p = 0.05) for any given age and body surface area. Left ventricular mass varied linearly with body surface area and increased as a function of age. In group I subjects, echocardiographic left ventricular mass (in grams) could be estimated by the general formula: left ventricular mass = 124 (body surface area) + A +/- C, where A is the age-dependent intercept; +/- C encompasses a 95% prediction interval for normal values, which is assumed to be nearly constant (+/- 58 g); and body surface area is expressed in square meters. In the Group II (younger) subjects, with age not considered, left ventricular mass (in grams) could be estimated from the following formula: left ventricular mass = 115 (body surface area) -11 +/- C, where +/- C = +/- 32% and this 95% prediction interval varies as a percentage of the mean.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Considerations in the use of echocardiography in epidemiology. The Framingham Study.
Authors: Savage D D , Garrison R J , Kannel W B , Anderson S J , Feinleib M , Castelli W P
Published: September 2013

To quantify potential biases in the use of echocardiography in epidemiologic studies, we assessed the relationship of sex, age, vital capacity, body fatness, and overt cardiovascular disease to prevalence of acceptable echocardiograms in 6148 Framingham men and women aged 17 to 90 years. Echocardiograms adequate to assess left ventricular chamber dimensions and wall thickness, aortic root, and left atrial dimensions as well as mitral and aortic valves were obtained in 4947 (80%) of the 6148 subjects. The prevalence of acceptable echocardiograms ranged from less than 50% for those more than 80 years of age to more than 96% for subjects under 30 years of age. A significant learning curve was apparent, particularly in the older subjects (more than 60 years of age) for whom prevalence of acceptable echocardiograms rose from a minimum of 28% during the first 5 months of studies to a maximum of 74 to 81% during studies 2 years later. The likelihood of unacceptable echocardiograms was slightly greater in men. Obesity (in subjects younger than 60 years of age), lower vital capacity, and overt cardiovascular disease were associated with unacceptable echocardiograms, independent of age. Consideration of these biases should aid in the interpretation and planning of epidemiologic and other studies using echocardiography.
Left ventricular hypertrophy in hypertension. Prevalence and relationship to pathophysiologic variables.
Authors: Devereux R B , Pickering T G , Alderman M H , Chien S , Borer J S , Laragh J H
Published: September 2013

In less than a decade since development of echocardiographic measurement of left ventricular muscle mass, studies using this technique have provided considerable information about the prevalence and pathophysiology of left ventricular hypertrophy in human hypertension. Increased left ventricular mass has been found in a significant minority of patients with systemic hypertension, with the exact prevalence dependent both on how a population is selected and on the sex, race, and possibly age composition of its members. All published studies have reported that left ventricular hypertrophy is more closely related to blood pressure recorded in the patient's natural setting during normal activity or exercise-whether measured by portable recorder or home manometer-than to blood pressure measured by the physician. In addition, studies indicate that the classic hypertensive abnormalities of concentric left ventricular hypertrophy and increased peripheral resistance are interrelated, while left ventricular hypertrophy is absent in a subgroup of patients with mild essential hypertension who exhibit high cardiac output and evidence of supernormal myocardial contractility. Conversely, the left ventricular functional response to exercise is inversely related to the degree of hypertrophy. High levels of blood viscosity, which would tend to blunt the reduction in peripheral resistance expected during sleep or exercise, have also been associated with left ventricular hypertrophy in patients with essential hypertension. Echocardiographic studies have provided evidence both for and against the hypothesis that activity of the sympathetic or reninangiotensin systems plays a direct role in causing hypertensive cardiac hypertrophy. These findings demonstrate the useful role that echocardiographic assessment of left ventricular structure and function may play in hypertension research.
Geometric considerations in determination of left ventricular mass by two-dimensional echocardiography.
Authors: Weiss J L , McGaughey M , Guier W H
Published: September 2013

This review describes the technique of and advances in determination of left ventricular mass by two-dimensional echocardiography. Two-dimensional echocardiographic model systems, which require geometric assumptions, may have limited accuracy in mass determination if ventricular shape is deformed or the architecture is irregular, as it may be in various disease states. Recently developed techniques allow free angulation of the echocardiographic transducer with continuous recordings of the three-dimensional coordinates of each image without imposing restraints on transducer orientation. These developments have led to methods for accurate three-dimensional reconstruction of left ventricular mass, even in the presence of severe dilatation or deformity. With the interaction of two-dimensional echocardiography, a coordinate system for locating the transducer in three-dimensional space, and computer-aided echocardiographic contouring, it is possible to obtain left ventricular mass estimates with a high degree of accuracy from randomly oriented views without practical restriction on transducer motion or major geometric assumptions.
Prazosin-induced alterations in renal alpha-adrenergic receptor function.
Authors: Jeffries W B , Tam L T , Wang Y , Smyth D D , Pettinger W A
Published: September 2013

Chronic (3-day) treatment with prazosin causes an increase in renal alpha 2-adrenergic receptor density and the relocation of renal tubular alpha 2-adrenergic receptors from extrajunctional to postjunctional sites. We investigated whether chronic prazosin treatment (2 mg/kg, i.p.) caused a functional alteration of other renal alpha 2-adrenergic receptors, using the isolated perfused rat kidney. Prazosin significantly reduced blood pressure and increased heart rate during the 3-day treatment. Renal nerve stimulation (2-8 Hz, 10 V, 1 msec) caused a frequency-dependent increase in renovascular resistance, which was potently blocked by prazosin in vitro in both control and prazosin-treated rat kidneys. The vasoconstrictor response to the alpha 2-adrenergic receptor-selective agonist BHT 933 (3-300 microM) was significantly higher in kidneys from prazosin-treated rats. Yohimbine (3-300 nM) potentiated the response to renal nerve stimulation in both treatment groups. The increase in vascular resistance following renal nerve stimulation was lower in kidneys from prazosin-treated rats, but the response to the alpha 1-adrenergic receptor agonist methoxamine (0.3-1 microM) was unchanged. Further studies revealed that renal nerve stimulation-evoked norepinephrine release from prazosin-treated rat kidneys was significantly lower than release from untreated controls. This response could be normalized to control levels by a combination of cocaine (10 microM) and yohimbine (100 nM). Thus, chronic prazosin treatment caused enhanced alpha 2-adrenergic receptor-mediated vasoconstriction and facilitated renal prejunctional inhibitory mechanisms. We conclude that with chronic alpha 1 adrenergic receptor blockade there is increased alpha 2-adrenergic receptor function in at least two and possibly three sites in the kidney; these include postjunctional tubular, prejunctional vascular, and possibly extra-junctional vascular sites.
Studies of isolated resistance vessels from offspring of essential hypertensive patients.
Authors: Aalkjaer C , Heagerty A M , Bailey I , Mulvany M J , Swales J D
Published: September 2013

In order to investigate whether functional and morphological changes are present in the resistance vasculature before hypertension is established, isolated subcutaneous resistance vessels were studied from 21 young normotensive subjects with a family history of hypertension and 22 controls matched for age, sex, and weight. The vessels from the offspring of hypertensive patients displayed no morphological changes or differences in reactivity or sensitivity to the vasoconstrictor agonists norepinephrine, angiotensin II, serotonin, and vasopressin. In the presence of cocaine, however, vessels from offspring showed a significantly greater shift in sensitivity to norepinephrine, a phenomenon also observed in previous studies of vessels from hypertensive patients. The results suggest that in essential hypertension, while morphological and functional abnormalities of the resistance vasculature may develop as the blood pressure rises, a defect in neuroeffector activity is present before hypertension is established and may be a manifestation of abnormal sympathetic nervous system activity underlying the disease.
Neurohumoral and hemodynamic responses to dietary calcium supplementation in deoxycorticosterone-salt hypertensive dogs.
Authors: Kageyama Y , Bravo E L
Published: September 2013

We determined whether dietary calcium supplementation can influence the development and maintenance of hypertension in deoxycorticosterone (DOC)-salt-treated dogs. Dogs on normal dietary calcium (0.4%) had significant increases in mean arterial pressure (from 92 +/- 2 to 131 +/- 3 mm Hg, p less than 0.01); those given high dietary calcium (1.7%) had attenuated but significant increases in mean arterial pressure (from 90 +/- 2 to 107 +/- 1, p less than 0.01). The elevation of blood pressure in dogs on normal dietary calcium was primarily due to increased calculated total peripheral resistance, which was prevented by the high calcium diet. The increases in blood pressure could not be attributed to any changes in cardiac output, blood volume, or plasma norepinephrine. These results suggest that mineralocorticoid hypertension in the dog is associated with abnormalities not only in sodium, but also in calcium metabolism. Further, they suggest a direct link between sodium and calcium metabolism and may thus have implications for the pathogenesis and management of salt-dependent hypertension.
Exacerbation of hypertension by high chloride, moderate sodium diet in the salt-sensitive spontaneously hypertensive rat.
Authors: Wyss J M , Liumsiricharoen M , Sripairojthikoon W , Brown D , Gist R , Oparil S
Published: September 2013

In salt-sensitive spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR-S) of the Okamoto strain, dietary salt loading causes an exacerbation of hypertension that is associated with a decrease in noradrenergic input to the depressor neurons in the anterior hypothalamus. In the present study, the contribution of chloride to the salt-induced hypertensive response was examined in the SHR-S, in order to test the hypothesis that diets high in chloride but moderate in sodium elevate blood pressure in genetically predisposed subjects. SHR-S were fed diets high in NaCl (1.97% Na+, 2.93% Cl-; 5% NaCl), high in chloride (2.93%) but moderate in sodium (0.39%) or moderate in NaCl (0.39% Na+, 0.61% Cl-; 1% NaCl). After 2 weeks, rats on the high (5%) NaCl diet exhibited a significant elevation in blood pressure compared to rats on the moderate (1%) NaCl diet, and this elevation was maintained throughout the next 3 weeks. SHR-S on the high chloride diet were not significantly more hypertensive than 1% NaCl-fed SHR-S during the first 3 weeks, but during the fourth and fifth weeks, SHR-S on the high chloride diet displayed a significant exacerbation of hypertension. The diet-induced elevation in blood pressure in groups fed either the 5% NaCl or high chloride (compared to 1% NaCl) diets was associated with significant decreases in norepinephrine stores in the anterior hypothalamic region, but no other changes in monoamines or monoamine metabolites in this region or in the posterior hypothalamic region. The high chloride diet did not increase blood pressure in normotensive Wistar-Kyoto rats.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
The area postrema in deoxycorticosterone-salt hypertension in rats.
Authors: Fink G D , Pawloski C M , Blair M L , Mangiapane M L
Published: September 2013

Ablation of the area postrema in rats prevents sustained hypertension during angiotensin II infusion and after unilateral renal artery constriction (two-kidney, one clip hypertension). The current experiment was performed to determine whether an intact area postrema is required for hypertension development in a low renin model of experimental hypertension in rats. In 11 rats, the area postrema was destroyed using electrical current; the extent and specificity of each lesion was confirmed later by blind histological analysis. In 12 rats, sham operations were performed. All rats were uninephrectomized and drank saline. During once-weekly injections of deoxycorticosterone pivalate (5 mg/wk) for 4 weeks, sham-operated rats (n = 10) showed a significant increase in mean arterial pressure (Days 6-28) and saline intake (Days 12-28), but no significant increase in sodium or water retention. Deoxycorticosterone-treated rats with area postrema ablation (n = 9) exhibited no change in arterial pressure, sodium retention, or water retention, but a significant increase in saline intake (Days 17-28). Plasma renin activity was equally suppressed in both groups of rats. The depressor response to ganglion blockade with hexamethonium (20 mg/kg i.v.) was significantly increased during the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th weeks of steroid treatment in sham-operated, but not area postrema-ablated, rats. Four rats (2 sham-operated; 2 ablated) showed no change in any variable over 28 days in the absence of steroid treatment. It is concluded that the area postrema may be important in some non-angiotensin-dependent forms of experimental hypertension, possibly by affecting neurogenic control mechanisms.
Development of a nonhuman primate model for spontaneous hypertension. Blood pressures in first-generation offspring.
Authors: Kraft-Schreyer N , Kushner H , Angelakos E T
Published: September 2013

A breeding colony of two subspecies of African green monkeys has been established in an attempt to develop a strain of nonhuman primates with inherited spontaneous hypertension. Selective breeding of normotensive and hypertensive feral animals has produced over 300 first-generation, colony-born offspring of nine possible types, which were grouped according to parentage. Blood pressures were measured by indirect methods in 335 unanesthetized animals aged 0.5 to 6 years. Analysis of variance and covariance of mean blood pressures of animals aged 0.5 to 6 years indicated significant differences between control and experimental offspring groups (p less than .001) both before and after adjusting for sex, subspecies, age, and body weight. Mean blood pressures of control and experimental (p less than .02) offspring were significantly different from 0.5 to 5 years of age. The slopes of the regression of mean blood pressure on age were significantly different between the control and experimental groups (p less than .001). Multiple linear regression analysis indicated significant differences among blood pressure, body weight, and age (p less than .001) and also between age and weight (p less than .001) between the groups. The relative contributions of age and weight to determining the mean blood pressure differed, however. The results indicate that elevated blood pressures can be detected in offspring with even one parent having elevated blood pressure from as early as 1 year of age and that the tendency to develop elevated blood pressure is transmitted from parent to offspring in this species, thereby providing a strong indication that a hypertensive strain of monkeys can be developed through selective breeding.
Salt-induced plasma factor that inhibits platelet thromboxane A2 release and renal prostaglandin E2 production in rats.
Authors: Uehara Y , Ishii M , Ishimitsu T , Sugimoto T
Published: September 2013

This study examined the relationship between a plasma factor (or factors) that inhibits the release of thromboxane A2 from platelets and excessive salt intake in rats. The plasma factor, termed platelet inhibitory factor, was also characterized. The release of thromboxane A2 from thrombin-activated platelets was reduced in Wistar rats that were uninephrectomized and given 2% saline for a week, but not in rats with acute volume expansion. Platelet inhibitory factor was extracted from the plasma of these uninephrectomized and saline-loaded rats and partially purified using membrane sieves, reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), modified straight-phase HPLC, and gel-permeation column chromatography. The molecular weight of the factor was about 4300 daltons by gel filtration method. The partially purified platelet inhibitory factor decreased the release not only of thromboxane A2, but also of prostaglandin E2 and prostaglandin D2 from thrombin-activated platelets. The factor inhibited the aggregation of human platelets induced by adenosine 5'-diphosphate (ADP), collagen, and thrombin, but not that by arachidonate. The platelet inhibitory factor reduced the activities of phospholipases A2 and C but did not affect the conversion of arachidonate to thromboxane A2. Furthermore, platelet inhibitory factor decreased prostaglandin E2 production in cultured renal cells, and platelet inhibitory factor-like activity was detected in kidney extract from the salt-loaded rats. These results suggest that platelet inhibitory factor is produced by chronic salt intake and involved in the functional alterations of the platelets and probably the kidneys, mainly through its inhibitory action on the liberation of arachidonate.
Multicenter clinical trials. Potential influence of consumer education.
Authors: Frohlich E D
Published: September 2013

Multicenter therapeutic trials have demonstrated clearly the efficacy and safety of antihypertensive therapy. Such studies were designed initially to demonstrate the effectiveness of antihypertensive therapy in preventing complications and fatalities from hypertensive disease. Over the three decades since these studies were instituted, succeeding trials have become more sophisticated in design, and those of us who observe and interpret their results have similarly become more sophisticated and more demanding. However, we should not expect more from the studies than their designers intended. Let us neither overinterpret the results nor ascribe failure to studies simply because they do not answer the questions that remain. This discussion concerns primarily three recent multicenter clinical trials: the Hypertension Detection and Follow-up Program (1979), the Australian National Blood Pressure Study (1980), and the Multiple Risk Factor Intervention Trial (1982).
Implications of the clinical trials on the management of hypertension.
Authors: Moser M
Published: September 2013

All of the major clinical trials that employed diuretics as initial monotherapy or as one of several first-step drugs have demonstrated a marked reduction in overall cardiovascular events and stroke deaths in treated patients. Benefit has been demonstrated in all trials in patients with initial diastolic pressures of 95 mm Hg or above and in the Hypertension Detection and Follow-up Program, the only study to test the hypothesis, benefit of treatment was noted in patients with pretreatment diastolic pressures of 90 to 95 mm Hg. Although several of the trials failed to show a significant decrease in coronary events in treated patients, the two studies (Hypertension Detection and Follow-up Program and European Working Party on Hypertension in the Elderly) that treated either elderly patients or patients with pretreatment target-organ involvement, reported a reduction in deaths from ischemic heart disease following effective lowering of blood pressure. The long-term benefits of effective treatment of hypertension appear to justify the use of pharmacological intervention if nondrug treatment proves ineffective.
Extracellular Matrix Secretion by Cardiac Fibroblasts
Authors: Abonnenc Mélanie , Nabeebaccus Adam A. , Mayr Ursula , Barallobre-Barreiro Javier , Dong Xuebin , Cuello Friederike , Sur Sumon , Drozdov Ignat , Langley Sarah R. , Lu Ruifang , Stathopoulou Konstantina , Didangelos Athanasios , Yin Xiaoke , Zimmermann Wolfram-Hubertus , Shah Ajay M. , Zampetaki Anna , Mayr Manuel
Published: September 2013

Rationale:

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), in particular miR-29b and miR-30c, have been implicated as important regulators of cardiac fibrosis.

Objective:

To perform a proteomics comparison of miRNA effects on extracellular matrix secretion by cardiac fibroblasts.

Methods and Results:

Mouse cardiac fibroblasts were transfected with pre-/anti-miR of miR-29b and miR-30c, and their conditioned medium was analyzed by mass spectrometry. miR-29b targeted a cadre of proteins involved in fibrosis, including multiple collagens, matrix metalloproteinases, and leukemia inhibitory factor, insulin-like growth factor 1, and pentraxin 3, 3 predicted targets of miR-29b. miR-29b also attenuated the cardiac fibroblast response to transforming growth factor-β. In contrast, miR-30c had little effect on extracellular matrix production but opposite effects regarding leukemia inhibitory factor and insulin-like growth factor 1. Both miRNAs indirectly affected cardiac myocytes. On transfection with pre–miR-29b, the conditioned medium of cardiac fibroblasts lost its ability to support adhesion of rat ventricular myocytes and led to a significant reduction of cardiac myocyte proteins (α-actinin, cardiac myosin-binding protein C, and cardiac troponin I). Similarly, cardiomyocytes derived from mouse embryonic stem cells atrophied under pre–miR-29 conditioned medium, whereas pre–miR-30c conditioned medium had a prohypertrophic effect. Levels of miR-29a, miR-29c, and miR-30c, but not miR-29b, were significantly reduced in a mouse model of pathological but not physiological hypertrophy. Treatment with antagomiRs to miR-29b induced excess fibrosis after aortic constriction without overt deterioration in cardiac function.

Conclusions:

Our proteomic analysis revealed novel molecular targets of miRNAs that are linked to a fibrogenic cardiac phenotype. Such comprehensive screening methods are essential to define the concerted actions of miRNAs in cardiovascular disease.
A Congolese Virus and Belgian Doctors? Postcolonial Perspectives on Migration and HIV1
Authors: Pezeril Charlotte , Kanyeba Dany
Published: September 2013

Abstract

Based on collaborative research between a Congolese activist in HIV prevention in Belgium and a French anthropologist, this paper hopes to initiate a debate about the issue of HIV /AIDS in light of the postcolonial links between Belgium and its former colony Congo/Zaire. By exploring the social representations that HIV has generated in Francophone Belgium and the changing political management of the epidemic since the 1980s, the paper focuses on how Congolese HIV-­positive migrants have been viewed, treated and allowed (or not) to settle in Belgium. It analyzes how the HIV/AIDS epidemic was seen as an ‘African disease,’ and more precisely a ‘Congolese virus.’ It concludes that Achille Mbembe’s ‘postcolonial scoriae’ must be taken into account (without necessarily implying a linear passage from colonial to postcolonial relations) in order to understand European and international policies in Africa or policies concerning African migrants.
« Le Kivu, c’est notre Alsace-Lorraine, monsieur ! » : Femmes d’origine congolaise dans l’espace public belge et contraintes de la dénonciation en situation postcoloniale
Authors: Sinatu Césarine Bolya , Godin Marie , Grégoire Nicole
Published: September 2013

Résumé

A partir d’une situation d’interpellation parlementaire mettant en scène une tribune de femmes d’origine congolaise dénonçant la situation de guerre et de violence sévissant à l’Est du Congo, cet article se penche sur la présence croissante de femmes d’origine congolaise dans l’espace public belge. Tout d’abord, l’article met en relation l’histoire de l’évolution des rapports sociaux de sexe au Congo et la socialisation politique de certaines femmes d’origine congolaise dans l’espace public belge à travers notamment le développement d’un tissu associatif congolais particulièrement féminisé. Ensuite, le cadre dans lequel la dénonciation faite par les femmes prend place est analysé par le biais d’un outillage théorique innovant, articulant des concepts de la sociologie pragmatique (Boltanski et al. 1984; Boltanski et al. 2007) et de la théorie des mouvements sociaux (Snow et al. 1986). L’analyse montre que les rapports postcoloniaux belges peuvent donner lieu, dans l’espace public, à des situations d’interaction paradoxales où l’histoire coloniale, alors qu’elle sous-tend l’ensemble des échanges, doit être gardée sous silence sous peine de grever la légitimité et la cohérence de la prise de parole en public. Cette stratégie d’évitement du cadre postcolonial permet aux femmes de faire entendre leurs voix.
The Role of Oral Vitamin K Antagonists in the Outcome of Infrainguinal Bypass Procedures
Authors: Giannoukas Athanasios D. , Paraskevas Kosmas I. , Koutsias Stylianos , Argyriou Christos , Saleptsis Vasilios , Palombo Domenico
Published: September 2013

We investigated the role of oral vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) in graft patency, limb salvage, major and minor bleeding rates in patients undergoing infrainguinal bypass surgery. Five randomized-controlled trials (RCTs; n = 3746 patients) comparing VKA versus non-VKA treatment outcomes in patients undergoing infrainguinal bypass surgery were analyzed. The VKA treatment was associated with improved graft patency rates when a vein graft was used (risk ratio [RR]: 0.74; P = .0004), while there was no difference with prosthetic grafts (RR: 1.07; P = .39). The VKA treatment was also associated with improved limb salvage rates (RR: 0.33; P = .0008). Major and minor bleeding complications were higher in the VKA group. In conclusion, VKA treatment is associated with improved graft patency and limb salvage rates when a vein graft is used at the price of an increased risk of bleeding. Due to the inconsistent results, further well-designed RCTs are needed.
Results of the Retrospective Analysis of Renal Artery Stenting for the Salvage of Renal Function Study
Authors: Miyashita Yusuke , Ikeda Uichi , Soga Yoshimitsu , Yokoi Hiroyoshi , Suzuki Kenji , Inoue Naoto
Published: September 2013

Renal artery stenting is expected to improve or stabilize renal function. However, the efficacy of renal artery stenting in severely reduced renal function is unclear. We evaluated 23 patients with class IV or V renal dysfunction who were treated for renal artery stenosis between 2004 and 2009. Improvement in renal function was found in 7 (30%) patients, all of whom were treated with distal protection device. Deterioration of renal function was found in 4 (17%) cases. In these 4 cases, distal protection device could not be used for anatomical reasons. The use of distal protection device was associated with significantly less renal deterioration after the procedure ( P < .05, odds ratio 0.21 [confidence interval 0.09-0.50]). Renal artery stenting can stabilize or improve renal function in patients with severe renal dysfunction. Distal protection devices may be beneficial in patients who require renal artery stenting due to severely reduced renal function.
Impaired Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A and Inflammation in Patients With Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Gardner Andrew W. , Parker Donald E. , Montgomery Polly S. , Sosnowska Danuta , Casanegra Ana I. , Esponda Omar L. , Ungvari Zoltan , Csiszar Anna , Sonntag William E.
Published: September 2013

We compared apoptosis, cellular oxidative stress, and inflammation of cultured endothelial cells treated with sera from 130 patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) and a control group of 36 patients with high burden of comorbid conditions and cardiovascular risk factors. Second, we compared circulating inflammatory, antioxidant capacity, and vascular biomarkers between the groups. The groups were not significantly different ( P > .05) on apoptosis, hydrogen peroxide, hydroxyl radical antioxidant capacity, and nuclear factor κ-light-chain enhancer of activated B cells. Circulating tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α; P = .016) and interleukin 8 (IL-8; P = .006) were higher in the PAD group, whereas vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A; P = .023) was lower. The PAD does not impair the endothelium beyond that which already occurs from comorbid conditions and cardiovascular risk factors in patients with claudication. However, patients with PAD have lower circulating VEGF-A than the control group and higher circulating inflammatory parameters of TNF-α and IL-8.
Standard Errors and Confidence Intervals for Scalability Coefficients in Mokken Scale Analysis Using Marginal Models
Authors: Kuijpers Renske E. , Van der Ark L. Andries , Croon Marcel A.
Published: September 2013

Mokken scale analysis is a popular method for scaling dichotomous and polytomous items. Whether or not items form a scale is determined by three types of scalability coefficients: (1) for pairs of items, (2) for items, and (3) for the entire scale. It has become standard practice to interpret the sample values of these scalability coefficients using Mokken’s guidelines, which have been available since the 1970s. For valid assessment of the scalability coefficients, the standard errors of the scalability coefficients must be taken into account. So far, standard errors were not available for scales consisting of Likert items, the most popular item type in sociology, and standard errors could only be computed for dichotomous items if the number of items was small. This study solves these two problems. First, we derived standard errors for Mokken’s scalability coefficients using a marginal modeling framework. These standard errors can be computed for all types of items used in Mokken scale analysis. Second, we proved that the method can be applied to scales consisting of large numbers of items. Third, we applied Mokken scale analysis to a set of polytomous items measuring tolerance. The analysis showed that ignoring standard errors of scalability coefficients might result in incorrect inferences.
On the Application of Discrete Marginal Graphical Models
Authors: Németh Renáta , Rudas Tamás
Published: September 2013

Graphical models are defined by general and possibly complex conditional independence assumptions and are well suited to model direct and indirect associations and effects that are of central importance in many problems of sociology. Such relevance is apparent in research on social mobility. This article provides a unified view of many of the graphical models discussed in a largely scattered literature. The marginal modeling framework proposed here relies on parameters that capture aspects of associations among the variables that are relevant for the graph and, depending on the substantive problem at hand, may lead to deeper insight than other approaches. In this context, model search, which uses a sequence of nested models, means the restriction of increasing subsets of parameters. As a special case, general path models for categorical data are introduced. These models are applied to the social status attainment process, generating substantive results and gaining new insights into the difference between liberal and conservative welfare systems. To help others use these models, all details of the analyses are posted on the Web site for this article at http://nemethr.web.elte.hu/discrete-graphical-models/ . Researchers can thus easily modify the analyses to their own data and models.
The Impact of Multiple Deployments and Social Support on Stress Levels of Women Married to Active Duty Servicemen
Authors: Van Winkle Elizabeth P. , Lipari Rachel N.
Published: September 2013

Using a large-scale survey, we examined the relationship between number of deployments experienced by female spouses of active duty military members and these spouses’ perceived stress. Results suggest a nonlinear relationship such that spouses who had not experienced a deployment reported the lowest stress levels. Stress levels increase after initial deployments and decrease after approximately two deployments, which may indicate an element of resiliency that builds up as spouses acclimate to a deployment lifestyle. Stress levels again increase after several deployments, which may signify limitations to this resiliency over time. A secondary finding showed that higher levels of social support predicted lower levels of stress, above and beyond the number of deployments. This relationship between social support and stress helped explain the negative relationship between parental status and stress. That is, spouses with children may have lower stress levels due to the social network that accompanies parental status.
National Culture and Social Desirability Bias in Measuring Public Service Motivation
Authors: Kim Seung Hyun , Kim Sangmook
Published: September 2013

Much of what we know about public service motivation comes from self-report measures. However, self-report questionnaires are vulnerable to social desirability bias due to respondents’ tendencies to answer in a more socially acceptable way. This is a problem as social desirability bias threatens the validity of the measure. This study investigates whether characteristics of national culture influence social desirability bias during surveys on public service motivation. In particular, the impact of social desirability bias is analyzed with two concerns in mind: construct validity and inference validity of public service motivation measures. Experimental survey research (list experiment) is conducted to examine the magnitude of social desirability bias and its associations with national cultures in four countries: Japan, Korea, the Netherlands, and the United States. The results show that respondents in both collectivistic countries (Japan and Korea) and individualistic countries (the Netherlands and the United States) are likely to over-report answers on items of public service motivation, although the magnitude and pattern of this bias is stronger and more consistent in collectivistic countries. This study also finds a strong possibility of a moderator effect in correlational analyses in collectivistic countries, but it is doubtful this effect is present in individualistic countries. Overall, we suggest that the effects of social desirability bias should be investigated in public service motivation research, and social desirability bias should be controlled for in future research.
Perioperative Nutrition
Authors: Martindale Robert G. , McClave Stephen A. , Taylor Beth , Lawson Christy M.
Published: September 2013

Poor nutrition status has long been linked to increases in postoperative complications and adverse outcomes for the patient undergoing elective surgery. While optimal planning for nutrition therapy should be comprehensive spanning throughout the perioperative period, recent advances have focused on the concept of “prehabilitation” to best prepare the patient prior to the insult of surgery. Adding immune/metabolic modulating formulas the week of surgery with carbohydrate drinks to optimize glycogen deposition immediately prior to surgery, enhances patient recovery and return to baseline function. Such nutrition strategies should now be combined with a host of other practices (such as smoking cessation, weight loss, glucose control, and specialized exercise program) as part of a structured protocol to maximize patients’ chances for a full and rapid recovery from their elective surgical procedure.
Prognostic impact of vascular and lymphovascular invasion in early lung cancer
Authors: Al-Alao Bassel S , Gately Kathy , Nicholson Siobhan , McGovern Eilis , Young Vincent K , O'Byrne Kenneth J
Published: September 2013

Background

The prognostic significance of vascular and lymphatic invasion in non-small-cell lung cancer is under continuous debate. We analyzed the effect of tumor aggressiveness (lymphatic and/or vessel invasion) on survival and relapse in stage I and II non-small-cell lung cancer.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed prospectively collected data of 457 patients with stage I and II non-small-cell lung cancer from 1998 to 2008. Specimens were analyzed for intratumoral vascular invasion and lymphovascular space invasion. Overall survival and disease-free survival were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method, and differences were determined by the logrank test. Cox regression analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors.

Results

The incidence of intratumoral vascular invasion was 23.4%, and this correlated significantly with grade of differentiation, visceral pleural involvement, lymphovascular space invasion, and N status. The incidence of lymphovascular space invasion was 5.5%, and this correlated significantly with grade of differentiation, lymph nodes involved, and intratumoral vascular invasion. On multivariate analyses, intratumoral vascular invasion proved to be an significant independent risk factor for overall survival but not for disease-free survival. Lymphovascular space invasion was associated significantly with early tumor recurrence but not with overall survival.

Conclusions

Vascular and lymphatic invasion can serve as independent prognostic factors in completely resected non-small-cell lung cancer. Intratumoral vascular invasion and lymphovascular space invasion in early stage non-small-cell lung cancer are important factors in overall survival and early tumor recurrence. Further large scale studies with more recent patient cohorts and refined histological techniques are warranted.
Initial large-dose administration of modified St. Thomas' solution
Authors: Hiraoka Arudo , Nakajima Kosuke , Kuinose Masahiko , Totsugawa Toshinori , Yoshitaka Hidenori
Published: September 2013

Background

We introduced an initial large dose of modified St. Thomas' Hospital cardioplegic solution with the aim of providing both myocardial protection as well as a smooth intraoperative process.

Methods

In 90 cases of isolated aortic valve replacement, we used the modified technique of cardioplegia in 45 (group S) and conventional administration of glucose-insulin-potassium solution in 45 (group G). The patients were selected at random. In group S, we added 4 mEq of potassium to the original St. Thomas' Hospital solution and administered 30 mL·kg−1 as an initial dose. The temperature was decreased to 2℃.

Results

The mean of reperfusion time after declamping in group S was significantly shorter (16.7 ± 6.4 vs. 21.5 ± 10.0 min; p = 0.007). The average of postoperative maximum creatine kinase-MB was significantly lower in group S (25.6 ± 9.5 vs. 40.6 ± 37.2 IU·L−1; p = 0.014). On multivariate analysis, use of the modified cardioplegia and aortic crossclamp time were significantly associated with creatine kinase-MB level and reperfusion time after declamping.

Conclusions

This modified technique was an acceptable option that provided a bloodless operative field and avoided multiple cardioplegic administrations.
Music and sign language to promote infant and toddler communication and enhance parent–child interaction
Authors: Colwell Cynthia , Memmott Jenny , Meeker-Miller Anne
Published: September 2013

The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of using music and/or sign language to promote early communication in infants and toddlers (6–20 months) and to enhance parent–child interactions. Three groups used for this study were pairs of participants (care-giver(s) and child) assigned to each group: 1) Music Alone 2) Sign Language Alone, and 3) Music and Sign Language. All interventions were play-based. Each group was a 4-week program that met weekly for 45 minutes. Each session was divided into four segments: music and/or signs (book), centers (vestibular, tactile, hands-on activities), music and/or sign review, and goodbye lullaby/activity. Data reported in the results do not support the use of music and/or sign language but trends were discussed in addition to parent’s perceptions of participation in the program.
Looking back at Orpheus: Opera and cultural integration
Authors: Simpson Patricia Anne
Published: September 2013

The myth of Orpheus is intricately implicated in the origin of song. For centuries, myth and music have cooperated in a variety of genres, foremost among them in opera. The myth, open to reinterpretation across linguistic, national, and temporal boundaries, served as a starting point for an extracurricular opera project in the metropolitan region of Nuremberg. This article explores the goals, best practices, and outcomes of the Orpheus project, Schau nicht zurück, Orfeo! (Do Not Look Back, Orpheus!), that was organized around the principle of involving young adult learners in the creation and production of a work of art. The organizers also hoped to achieve a level of integration across German school systems, ethnic immigrant identities, and age groups. The result is a contemporary opera in which students contribute significantly to the artistic process of writing a libretto, composing music for choruses, and dancing in the opera’s premiere.
“Because I’m still the parent, that’s why!” Parental legitimate authority during emerging adulthood
Authors: Padilla-Walker Laura M. , Nelson Larry J. , Knapp Darin J.
Published: September 2013

The current study sought to examine the discrepancies between parent and child reports of legitimate parental authority, to identify heterogeneity in college students’ perceptions of parental legitimate authority, and to examine potential variables that might differ as a function of group membership. Participants ( Mage = 19.65, SD = 2.00, range = 18–29) consisted of 438 undergraduate students (320 women, 118 men) and at least one parent (376 mothers, 303 fathers). Results suggested that parents reported higher levels of legitimate authority than did children. Results found three groups and group membership varied as a function of perceptions of adult status, parental financial support, parental control, and the quality of the parent–child relationship. Discussion focuses on the implications of these findings for the parent–child relationship.
The costs of being put on a pedestal
Authors: Tomlinson Jennifer M. , Aron Arthur , Carmichael Cheryl L. , Reis Harry T. , Holmes John G.
Published: September 2013

This research explored the possibility of feeling over-idealized, or “put on a pedestal” by a partner, examining whether there is an optimal level of perceived idealization, such that too little or too much is detrimental. Perceived over-idealization was manipulated experimentally with 99 dating couples (Study 1), and in surveys of 89 married (Study 2) and 156 dating couples (Study 3). Study 1 found that participants physically distanced themselves from their partners following a perceived over-idealization manipulation. Study 2 found curvilinear associations (i.e., positive up to a point, then negative) of satisfaction with perceived idealization of traits and abilities. Study 3 found a similar curvilinear association of perceived idealization of abilities with satisfaction, which appeared to be mediated by reduced accommodation and possibly also by threat to self, as suggested by theory.